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Airport development adding to economy, jobs in the region

Pittsburgh may always be known as the Steel City, but a wave of new industries are popping up near its airport to redefine business in the region.
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By Times Record News

Wichita County deputies took a large haul of drugs off the street Saturday and arrested one man.

According to a WCSO release, interdiction deputies saw a U-Haul truck closely following a Toyota passenger car at about 11:19 a.m. Saturday on U.S. 287. They stopped both vehicles near the intersection with Burnett Ranch Road.

The release said the drivers had conflicting stories of what they were doing, so deputies searched the Toyota and found $11,542 in cash. The driver said the money belonged to the man driving the truck.

A drug dog brought to the scene alerted on the truck. The deputies found a hashish lab inside the truck along with 52 pounds of hydrophobic marijuana valued at $332,800.

They also found a key to the U-Haul in the truck. The deputies arrested the truck driver, Richard Joseph Nuckols, 46.

He was jailed on charges of possession of marijuana over 50 pounds and money laundering. Nuckols was no longer in jail Monday.
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Philip Swan, Olney

My apology

I just wanted to tell the writer, who responded to my recent letter, that I am writing to tell them "I apologize and thank you."

I apologize if the word "stupid" is too harsh of a word; please replace it with the word "uneducated." And thank you for proving my point! Have a wonderful day/week/year.

Robert Smith, Wichita Falls

Trump is no Christian

There has been a debate in some circles recently about whether Donald Trump is a Christian. The controversy revolves around Trump's business practices, associates, personal life, situations, quotes  OK, well, his whole life. Trump aware of the controversy, visited and spoke to Liberty University, got the endorsement of a Falwell, proclaimed his love for "the evangelicals," and did what all devout Christians have been taught to do: found the Bible his mother gave him, proclaimed his love for said Bible and paraded said Bible on national TV much like his Miss Universe contestants.

Max Lucado, giving a rare political discourse, said regarding Trump that it is more about discernment than judging. Valid point. So I was perplexed recently at the letter endorsing Trump from a writer in this venue who has been at the forefront for several years of decrying the lack of Christianity in our country on many different levels. And for pastoral validation, he also invoked the name of brother Jeffress, who apparently is also a Trump supporter. (Not all that surprising, though, with his penchant for $100 million houses of meeting that he is drawn to a moneymaking peer like Trump.) But to be fair, even with all the outward manifestations from Trump, we must be wary of judging. We are all broken in word, thought and deed. Daily. Regardless of intent. (see Romans 7:15. Trump might also want you to see "Too" Corinthians). Lest we forget, "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone."

Which may explain why Trump believes he is but a stone's throw from the presidency. When asked if he has ever asked God for forgiveness, Trump stated he has never done anything needing forgiveness. Interesting. All Christians of which I am aware acknowledge that they have made mistakes and need forgiveness. So, follow the breadcrumbs. Trump says he has never done anything needing forgiveness. Therefore, by definition, Trump has no need for Jesus on the cross. Therefore, if he has no need for the cross, Trump is not a Christian. No judging involved or needed. Just Christianity 101.
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MEDIA

THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE PROJECT

Bill O'Bryon joined as director of digital strategy. O'Bryon has more than 15 years of digital strategy, production and measurement experience.

Shay Ashline joined as a clinical content specialist on the content team. Ashline is responsible for medical writing and provides insight into medical aspects of pharmaceutical, biotechnology and health care clients.

OVERIT

Janae Quackenbush was promoted to lead strategist. Quackenbush is responsible for the planning and execution of digital and traditional marketing strategies for new and existing clients.

NONPROFITS

AMERICAN RED CROSS

Kevin Coffey joined as regional chief development officer for the Eastern New York Region. Coffey previously served as director of business development and strategic partnerships for the Patient Experience Project.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE DIOCESE OF ALBANY

Kate Qualters joined as development director. Qualters previously worked in development at Excelsior College, Albany Medical Center and Union Graduate College.

Eileen Spath joined as an administrative specialist with a concentration in marketing and graphic design. Spath previously worked at Farm Family Insurance.

Paul McAvoy was promoted to director of marketing and communications.

Mary Pat Hickey was promoted to chief of staff in the Executive Office.

NYSARC INC.

Kristen Ermides joined as senior financial analyst. Ermides previously served as a senior accounting analyst at Von Roll.

PROFESSIONS

TULLY RINCKEY PLLC

Mary T. Connolly joined the Federal Labor and Employment Law Practice Group. Fluent in Spanish, Connolly focuses on aggressively and effectively defending the rights of federal employees against a range of abuses, including wrongful personnel actions, discrimination and retaliation claims.

WHITEMAN, OSTERMAN & HANNA LLP

Michael P. Murray joined as director of marketing. Murray previously served as marketing manager at SaxBST LLP.

REAL ESTATE

WEICHERT REALTORS - FONTAINE & ASSOCIATES

Deborah Stalker joined the Athens office as a sales associate. Stalker will assist home buyers and sellers in Columbia and Greene counties and surrounding areas.

David Bonk joined as a Realtor. Bonk will assist property buyers and sellers throughout the Capital Region, with a focus on properties in Saratoga County.

REALTYUSA

Lisabeth Nuefeld joined as a licensed sales associate at the Clifton Park office.

SERVICES

CREIGHTON MANNING ENGINEERING LLP

Douglas Teator was promoted to project manager. Teator is a licensed professional engineer with experience in the design and permitting of highway and pedestrian improvements, transit infrastructure and land development.

DWM FACILITIES MAINTENANCE

Andrea Uvanni was promoted to project engineer in the Construction & Renovation Division. Uvanni previously served as a project manager.

Johnny Wang was promoted to full-time customer service coordinator. Wang previously served as an industry analyst intern through the company's internship partnership with Siena College

HYMAN HAYES ASSOCIATES OF ALBANY

Justin Pechar joined as director of structural engineering. Pechar has 20 years of experience in projects including higher education, health care and general commercial.

TECH VALLEY SECURITY

Katie Murphy-Gagnon joined as office administrator. Murphy-Gagnon oversees daily operations of the company established by her father, the late Albany Police Department detective Tim Murphy, now owned by her mother, Toni Murphy.

 Jennifer Patterson
Schoharie

For the fourth time since 2007, Cal Harris will go on trial Thursday charged with the Sept. 11, 2001 murder of his wife Michele.

This time, Harris, 54, will leave his fate entirely up to a judge.

The Binghamton-area car dealer, whose case has drawn national attention, waived his right to a jury trial Monday in Schoharie County Court as juror selection was set to begin before state Supreme Court Justice Richard Mott. The second-degree murder trial will begin Thursday at 9:45 a.m.

"We think that a cool, dispassionate judge will be a better fact-finder than a jury which tends to be swayed by emotion and irrelevant factors like that," Harris' attorney, Bruce Barket, who is based on Long Island, told the Times Union on Monday.

Harris was convicted of murdering his wife at his first two trials in Tioga County, but both guilty verdicts were overturned on appeal. Due to intense publicity around Binghamton, the trial was moved last year to Schoharie County where a jury heard the case two-and-a-half months before Judge Richard Bartlett. The panel could reach no verdict after deliberating for 12 days.

Now it will go before Mott, a former defense attorney who was elected to Supreme Court in 2012 and is based in Columbia County. Mott made news in Albany County Court on Friday when he gave a detailed tongue-lashing to Robert Lake, 61, an Albany man convicted of murdering his girlfriend, Latisha Alzaid, 56, in 2014. Mott blasted Lake as a "man who should not have the opportunity ever to live in civilized society again" but shaved two years off his would-be 25 years to life sentence, giving Lake 23 years to life.

Mott was a defense attorney in 11 murder trials and represented clients facing the death penalty before his election to the bench.

He will decide the fate of Cal Harris who with his late wife lived on a lake on 250 acres in the rural community of Spencer.

In the last trial, Tioga County District Attorney Kirk Martin said Harris murdered Michele, his wife of 11 years and the mother of their two daughters and two sons, on the day of 9/11 because he stood to lose his children and roughly $740,000 in their divorce. The couple was estranged at the time Michele Harris vanished. Her body has never been found, though her blood was found in the garage and kitchen of their home.

On March 19, Barket filed a motion with the judge hoping to introduce evidence into the trial to prove his allegation that two other men  Stacey Stewart and Christopher Thomason, now both living in Texas  murdered Michele Harris and burned her clothes in a fire pit on Stewart's former property. Barket and fellow Harris defense attorneys Donna Aldea and Aida Leisenring said Stewart was sexually involved with Michele Harris, lived near her, was with her at a bar around midnight on Sept. 11, 2001 and that a witness, Kevin Tubbs, spotted Stewart with Michele Harris at the foot of the Harris' driveway the next morning around 6.

The defense attorneys said in the motion that they have recovered the blade of a knife, a partial shoulder strap from a bra, a dime from 1997, a woman's bathing suit or halter top, two pieces of fabric charred by a fire and the clasp and latch of a woman's handbag.

"Only someone willfully blind cannot see that these two men are involved with Michele Harris' disappearance and presumed murder," Barket stated in another filing to the judge March 23.

Martin is once again being assisted by former Albany County District Attorney Paul Clyne, who works for Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office.

rgavin@timesunion.com  518-434-2403  @RobertGavinTU
COMSTOCK  A state prison inmate's alleged weapon was a toothbrush with a 2.75-inch scalpel blade melted into the end and electrical tape as a sheaf.

Richard Guerrero, 21, an inmate at the Washington Correctional Facility, allegedly hid the homemade weapon in his mouth on April 14 as correctional officers searched him, District Attorney Tony Jordan said.

A grand jury last week indicted Guerrero for felony promoting prison contraband.

Although the crime was reported last April, Guerrero was arrested March 24, according to police reports.

Correctional officers at the medium-security state prison searched Guerrero and discovered the homemade weapon in his mouth, State Police spokesman Mark Cepiel said. Cepiel said Guerrero resisted and correctional officers reported two minor injuries.

Police charged him with felony assault, but the grand jury did not indict him on that charge, Jordan said.

The lag time between the report of the crime and the arrest is longer than typical, Jordan said.

"We normally don't like to see it take this long," Jordan said. "The facilities have their own internal proceedings they have to follow, and it's a matter of getting witnesses coordinated."

Guerrero has multiple felony convictions and is in jail on a robbery charge in which he caused a serious injury, Jordan said.
New York

A New York federal prosecutor has become a big name in Turkey after the arrest of a prominent businessman who was once entangled in a corruption scandal there.

Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara's Twitter following soared from several thousand to over a quarter-million after he tweeted Tuesday that Reza Zarrab would "soon face American justice" after being arrested on charges of conspiring to evade U.S. economic sanctions against Iran.

Bharara has since fielded a slew of messages in Turkish or from people writing in English about the case. Oklahoma City Thunder center Enes Kanter, who's Turkish, tweeted a photo of himself in a jersey with Bharara's name on it and said he was proud of the prosecutor's work.

The Iranian-Turkish Zarrab, 33, is a well-known figure in Turkey, partly because he's married to Turkish pop star and TV personality Ebru Gundes. But Zarrab gained notoriety on his own when he was arrested in a complicated, high-level Turkish government corruption case in 2013. He maintained his innocence, and the charges were dropped.

Now, Zarrab and two other people are charged in the U.S. with conspiring to process hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of financial transactions for Iranian businesses or Iran's government. The conspirators used a network of companies in Iran, Turkey and elsewhere to launder the proceeds and defraud several financial institutions, including U.S. banks.
THE ISSUE:

There's talk of taking as much as nine years to phase in a minimum wage increase.

THE STAKES:

Underpaid workers should not have to wait that long just to boost businesses' profits.

More Information To comment: tuletters@timesunion.com or at http://blog.timesunion.com/opinion See More Collapse

When a special wage board last year recommended raising the minimum wage for fast food workers to $15, we weren't enthused about the timeline  as long as six years for workers upstate. But we understand that politics is the art of compromise.

It was with that understanding in mind that we've supported Gov. Andrew Cuomo's plan to provide that raise, under the same timetable, for all minimum wage workers in the state. But now, there are signs that the governor may further compromise that compromise, allowing the wage hike to be phased in over nearly a decade.

That's intolerable. It makes a mockery of a wage hike that is needed to address a rate that is much too low right now. It's an insult to low-wage workers.

The governor, and supporters of the original plan in the state Assembly, should stand their ground.

As it is, the rollout of the $15 an hour wage will be phased in over a period of years  through 2018 in New York City, and through 2021 in the rest of the state.

We appreciate that the increase  from $9 an hour today  sounds large. In reality, the current hourly rate is close to a poverty wage, forcing many who earn it to depend on public assistance just to eat adequately.

Sign up for The Knick  Get the latest news and features with our afternoon newsletter.

A wage that does not provide a full-time employee with enough money for decent food and shelter is, quite simply, exploitative. And it leaves government and taxpayers to pick up the slack for businesses that want the benefits of operating in a free enterprise system but not the responsibilities.

We recognize that this would be a significant added expense for businesses, and that it could be especially hard to absorb for small ones struggling to make a profit. Phasing in this increase over two to six years seems a fair compromise that allows them time to prepare.

The wage hike has overwhelming public support, but the state Business Council, the Farm Bureau and other business groups oppose it. They seem to have found allies among the Senate's Republican majority, and now there's talk that in budget negotiations, a phase-in of as long as nine years is being discussed.

So just what will that $15 an hour be worth in 2025? Certainly not what it is today, or will be in 2018 or 2021. And so New York would lock in now a minimum wage plan that's inadequate from day one.

There are better ways to deal with the impacts of a minimum wage hike. If buffering small businesses is the goal, the state could offer tax breaks that would depend on the size of the business or its revenue. The breaks could diminish over time as businesses adjust to the higher wage. Larger companies that have made millions or billions of dollars at the expense of both low-paid workers and taxpayers shouldn't be eligible.

Six years was already quite long for underpaid workers to wait. New York cannot prolong this injustice.
B Donal McMahon

B Donal McMahon

The coursing meeting traditionally held every year in mid-December at Ardpatrick-Kilfinane, near Kilmallock, is due to be held there again this year, so the coursing calendar tells me. There was a meeting there ninety years ago on Wednesday and Thursday, the 14th and 15th of December 1921. Two RIC men from Thurles travelled down on Tuesday with their dogs. The dogs were brought back on Wednesday night but the policemen never returned, one being shot dead, the other seriously wounded that night. I would like to tell the story of that dead man, my grandfather, Thomas Enright, in the paper published, I see, in Friar Street, where the old RIC barracks once stood.

Born on a small farm in Listowel in 1889, the eldest of ten children of a second marriage who all emigrated, mostly to America, Thomas Enright found work with the Canadian Pacific railway and ended up in Vancouver. When World War I broke out, he enlisted with the 29th Vancouver Battalion and fought with them at the battle of the Somme in September 1916. After being seriously wounded during fierce trench fighting in the early morning of the 21 August 1917, when the Canadians launched an attack on Hill 70, near Lens, in north-east France, he was invalided back to Canada and spent the remainder of the war recovering in a TB sanatorium near Vancouver. There he met a nurse, Mary White, a near neighbour of his from Bedford, Listowel, and they were married the following year. The couple returned to Ireland in July 1919.

The War of Independence started in Soloheadbeg, Co. Tipperary, in January 1919. For reasons I can only speculate about, Thomas Enright took the decision in April 1920, when the war was at its height, to join the police force. He was sent to Thurles. In August of that year, in view, possibly, of the imminent birth of what was to be his only child, he became a Defence of Barracks sergeant. A truce was declared in July 1921 and a treaty agreed on the 6th December. As we know, the unresolved issues that remained led to the Civil War of 1922-23 and, many decades later, to the Troubles in the North.

The Sergeant must have felt secure enough in mid-December 1921, with the Truce in operation, to go to the coursing meeting in Kilmallock with his dogs. One of them, Bedford Lass, was entered under the name of his brother-in-law, Patrick White. By an ominous coincidence, she was drawn against Political Duchess owned by Shawn Forde (also known as Thomas Malone), the well-known East Limerick IRA leader. In the event, the Duchess won out over the Lass, but, nonetheless, Enright and his colleague, Constable Edward Timoney from Tyrone, still went to Clerys hotel that night for next days draw.

Among the attendance at the meeting that Wednesday, very likely, was 28-year-old Maurice Meade from Elton, Co. Limerick. After serving with the British army in World War I and then with Casements Brigade in Germany, he became a member of the East Limerick flying column of the IRA under the command of Donnchadh OHannigan, playing an active part in such engagements as the raid on Kilmallock barracks (May 1920) and the ambush at Dromkeen (February 1921). In Memoirs of a Freedom Fighter, edited in 2003 by Paddy Buckley of Cullen, Co. Tipperary, Meade tells the reader the funny story of winning back from an English officer called Brown a car that had originally belonged to an RIC inspector. At this point he recalls an incident from the day before, Wednesday the 14th.

On the previous day there was a Black and Tan named Enright who had a dog running there. This man was the brother of Enright, the RIC man who was killed at Knocklong [factually incorrect], and he was particularly active and bitter against our men, on one occasion bombing some of our captured men. For this we decided he should pay the death penalty. No opportunity to carry this out had arisen until the Truce occurred, but when we saw him at the coursing meeting, even though the Truce was then in operation, we agreed to shoot him and we did so that night.

The Southern Star reported the shooting as follows in its Saturday issue:

[Kilmallock, Thursday] A startling tragedy took place at Kilmallock last night, when Sergeant Enright, R.I.C. Thurles, was shot dead and a constable named Timoney seriously wounded. Only meagre particulars are available, but it appears that the Sergeant and Constable travelled to Kilmallock on Tuesday night to attend the coursing. The Sergeant and Constable travelled in plain clothes together with another man who had charge of dogs. The latter returned to Thurles last night with the dogs. The Sergeant and Constable proceeded to Clearys Hotel [sic], where the card was being called over for todays event. After leaving the hotel, shortly after 10.30 p.m. they were fired at from behind by a party of eight or nine civilians near the Post Office. The Sergeant was shot dead and the Constable seriously wounded. The report of the firing created considerable alarm in the town.

When news reached Thurles, the Nenagh Guardian also reported on Saturday, that Sergeant Enright had been shot, a note of alarm was struck, and last night a feeling of tension prevailed in the town.

The shooting has been described in fiction by a Thurles resident, Mark OSullivan, in his novel Enright (2005), making, one can well imagine, for an eerie reading-experience for the real-life Enrights three surviving grandchildren. Someone enters the hotel bar and opens fire on the two policemen drinking on stools at the counter.

The mirror behind the counter fell apart, taking his and Timmoneys reflection with it. [. . .] He lifted himself up, the weight on his chest immense, the pain remote but advancing. [. . .] Sweet Christ, theres wee bits of you falling out, Tom. Theyd no right to shoot you. Who the hell was it, Ned? He plunged through the doorway, the Browning finally in his hand. [. . .] The street and all its houses were etched coppery-vivid by the yellow light and at the far end, by Flanagans Hotel, four men raced for the junction. He fired once, twice. He pulled the flaps of his trench coat together and clamped the fistful of canvas to his torn chest. [. . .] Face me, you bastards. Face me! [. . .] He wanted just to see the face of one of his killers under that last gaslamp.

But he collapses and dies.

The Cabinet of the Dail and the Chief Liaison Officer of the IRA both condemned the killing, the latter stating, according to Saturdays Irish Times, that such deeds are not the acts of members of the I.R.A., but are the acts of cowardly individuals who endeavour to cloak their misdeeds in such a manner that they may be interpreted as the actions of soldiers of the Republican Army.

Thomas Enrights only daughter, Catherine (Ina), not yet two at the time of his death, was to lose her mother, Mary, when she was ten. Brought up by her uncle Paddy in Listowel (the owner of Bedford Lass), she never found out what exactly had happened to her father. Such ignorance was, in turn, passed on to her children, so that it was only late in life that I finally began to penetrate the secrecy surrounding my grandfathers life and death.

Thomas Enright was one of the last casualties of the War of Independence. His body was taken from Limerick to Listowel for burial on the same day, Friday 16th, as the Westminster Parliament voted to accept the terms of the Treaty and the Dail continued debating them (finally accepting them on the 7 January 1922).

The 90th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty, which we commemorate this month, brings back to us the terrible events of those times. For most of my life, the War of Independence was just a chapter in a history book and little did I know that my grandfather had taken part in it, and such a controversial part too. The words of Fr Liam Ryan, a Tipperary man, spoken at the unveiling, in February 2009, of a memorial to the Dromkeen Volunteers, offer us one way of rightly remembering those who were killed in that war.

In a magnanimous gesture, wrote the reporter from the Limerick Leader, one of the speakers, Fr Liam Ryan, former Professor of Sociology at NUI Maynooth, said that it was proper to honour the men who struck an important blow for Irish freedom and to invoke Gods blessing on the monument, but it was also right to remember the 11 RIC men and Black and Tans who were killed at the scene, three of whom were Irish and four Catholics. The men of the East and Mid Limerick brigades may have known what they were fighting for and knew what they were willing to die for, but the 11 men who died did not know either what they fought for or what they died for, which, said Fr Ryan, was sad, tragic and a terrible waste of human life.

At this Christmas time, then, ninety years after the War of Independence, a war that took such a toll in Munster especially, including Kilmallock that fatal day, let us remember those who died violent deaths on both sides, in that war, in the Civil War that followed, and in the later Troubles in the North, and pray that the all-reconciling God will look kindly on them all.
[March 28, 2016] Aarron Walter Joins InVision To Spearhead New Division Focused On Design Education

NEW YORK, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Aarron Walter, best-selling author of Designing for Emotion and widely known for his user experience design leadership at MailChimp, is heading to InVision to lead a new division dedicated to promoting design education worldwide. As InVision's first Vice President of Design Education, Walter will work closely with the creative community, business leaders, and InVision's nearly two million customers to extoll how to build better design-driven products focused on what users want and need. The appointment is a milestone in the company's history, demonstrating its long-term investment in becoming the design ecosystem of record. "Intuitive design is a new competitive advantage, which in turn is elevating design's role within business," said Clark Valberg, CEO of InVision. "By offering education around the latest trends, ideas and technological changes in design, we hope to influence business leaders to build better design policies that promote best practices and behaviors, and enable the growth of design as a common language for all. We have alwas looked to Aarron as a proponent of design and creativity, so we're excited to have him join the team to champion this effort."



InVision recognizes the importance of empowering young designers of the future. Since 2014, the company has worked with higher education and K-12 classrooms to give students and faculty free InVision access to introduce them to next generation tools they'll use throughout their careers. InVision works with over 1,000 teachers at more than 500 colleges and universities across the globe, including Rhode Island School of Design, Parsons School of Design and Pratt Institute. "As a long time customer, I've seen first-hand how InVision empowers design teams to do their best work. It's where design collaboration happens these days," said Walter. "Design and education have been the cornerstones of my career, and I'm excited to unite these passions at a company I've long admired. I look forward to meeting with business leaders, leading workshops and seminars and sharing insights on InVision's content channels that elevate the value of user-centered design."

Previously, Walter founded the UX practice at MailChimp and helped shape the product over eight years. He's offered design guidance to the White House, the US Department of State, dozens of startups and venture capitalists and students at design colleges throughout the U.S. and Europe. He tweets about design at @aarron. About InVision

InVision is the world's most powerful product design collaboration platform. InVision gives teams the freedom to prototype, review, iterate, manage, and user test web and mobile productswithout a single line of code and all in one place. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in New York City and backed by Accel, FirstMark, Tiger Global and others, InVision helps over 1.8 million designers at companies like Evernote, Netflix, Twitter, and Salesforce unlock the power of design-driven product development. Follow the company on Twitter at @InVisionApp. Contact: Leah Taylor, InVision, [email protected] Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160325/348153LOGO To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aarron-walter-joins-invision-to-spearhead-new-division-focused-on-design-education-300241667.html SOURCE InVision

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[March 28, 2016] Sue A. Erhart Promoted to General Counsel and Eve Cutler Rosen Named Executive Counsel of Great American Insurance Group

Great American Insurance Group is pleased to announce that Sue A. Erhart was promoted to General Counsel and Eve Cutler Rosen was named Executive Counsel within Great American's Property and Casualty Legal Group. This Smart News Release features multimedia. View the full release here: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160328005518/en/ Sue A. Erhart (Photo: Business Wire) In this role, Ms. Erhart will continue to have direct responsibility for the staff and operations of the Property & Casualty Group's Legal Department. She joined Great American in June 2010. Prior to joining the Company, she was a partner at the Cincinnati law firm of Keating, Muething & Klekamp PLL. Ms. Erhart graduated from Xavier University wih a Bachelor of Science degree and earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law.



As Executive Counsel, Ms. Rosen will continue to work with the Company's international operations and serve as senior counsel for the Property and Casualty Group. She has served as General Counsel of Great American since August 1999 and has been with the Company for 29 years. She joined Great American from Aetna and prior to this, was in private practice in Philadelphia. Ms. Rosen has a bachelor's degree from Bryn Mawr College and earned a Juris Doctor degree from Villanova University School of Law.

About Great American Insurance Group Great American Insurance Group's roots go back to 1872 with the founding of its flagship company, Great American Insurance Company. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, the operations of Great American Insurance Group are engaged primarily in property and casualty insurance, focusing on specialty commercial products for businesses, and in the sale of traditional fixed and fixed-indexed annuities in the retail, financial institutions and education markets. Great American Insurance Company has received an "A" (Excellent) or higher rating from the A.M. Best Company for over 100 years (most recent rating evaluation of "A+" (Superior) as of March 20, 2015). The members of the Great American Insurance Group are subsidiaries of American Financial Group, Inc. (AFG), also based in Cincinnati, Ohio. AFG's common stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFG. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160328005518/en/

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According to a report in Chinese magazine Caixin, Microsoft completed a special edition of Windows 10 for the Chinese government, called Windows 10 Zhuangongban, which includes additional "management and security controls." The company struck a deal last December to create a joint venture with China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) to sell this special edition in the country.

The Chinese government has stricter rules for companies that want to do business in China, and in the past few months it has been pushing American companies to create joint ventures with local companies. This would give the local companies, as well as the Chinese government more control over American technology products.

For instance, it's no secret that China would want an easy way to unlock encrypted devices and communications, which it has tried to push through new counter-terrorism laws last year. However, after major pushback from the American companies and the U.S. government, China may have agreed to a compromise, which would allow American companies to save face by not forcing them to implement their own backdoors into their products. The Chinese government would instead ask them to allow Chinese companies to modify the U.S. companies' products in accordance with the local laws.



It wouldn't be the first time something like this has happened, either. Years ago, the old Skype company agreed to create a joint-venture with a local Chinese company, called TOM-Skype. This happened at a time when Skype was still using the hard-to-intercept peer-to-peer version of the app, so special software would need to be used to intercept or censor those messages.

However, once Microsoft killed the P2P architecture of Skype and all the messages would go through its own servers, such method of interception was no longer required. The Chinese government could request the messages in the same way the U.S. government could. This will remain true until Microsoft adopts end-to-end encryption for Skype, similar to what Signal or Whatsapp are using.

It's not clear whether the special Chinese version of Windows 10 was created for the purpose of allowing government surveillance and censorship because Microsoft doesn't seem to want to divulge too many details about the partnership. However, once Microsoft allows local Chinese companies to write native code for that special version of Windows 10, then what happens to that code may even be out of Microsoft's hands.

The partnership also comes a few years after the Snowden revelations, which prompted the Chinese government to ban Windows 8 from government offices for security reasons. Other American companies, including IBM, Qualcomm, Intel, Dell, Cisco, HP, Cloudflare, and Juniper Networks have seen similar treatment by the Chinese government, as well as some anti-trust investigations. According to Dell's president of enterprise solutions, these sort of joint-ventures may be the only way forward for American companies that want to do business in China.

Lucian Armasu is a Contributing Writer for Tom's Hardware. You can follow him at @lucian_armasu.

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TKC Reader Seyz: "Greater Kansas Area Police Kill 2 in 3 Days"

Domestic Drama In One Of Kansas City's Worst Surubs: Lee's Summit officer shoots, kills man with knife, police say

A reminder from some social justice advocates in our blog community that authorities are cracking down harder amid increasing springtime violence . . .MSM context of increasingly violent suburban life . . .You decide . . .
KC Jazzlark: "Last week, the Overland Park South Rotary joyfully announced that the 27-year old Corporate Woods Jazz Festival, better known as Jazz in the Woods, has morphed into the SoJo Summerfest . Announcing a lineup that boasts country rock, Celtic pop and both Elton John and U2 cover bands, organizers proclaimed with glee in a press release, As you can see from our talented group of home-grown bands from Kansas City, SoJo Summerfest is definitely not a jazz concert."

THE GOLDEN GHETTO REJECTS OLD SCHOOL KANSAS CITY JAZZ FOR MORE FOOD & BOOZE BACKGROUND MUSIC!!!

In an overwritten but informative blog post . . . Our resident Kansas City jazz blogger attempts to explain a recent concert announcement . . .Translation . . .There's a myth that the signature sound of Kansas City is renowned throughout the land but the reality is that local promoters and club owners have a hard time attracting a crowd strictly by way of local jazz musicians.You decide . . .
"The city and the Land Bank of Kansas City have offered 130 derelict, generally unlivable structures for sale for $1 each to those willing to make them livable again within a year. The buyer's reward is an eventual $8,500 rebate  the amount it would have cost the city to flatten the houses.





Since launching the program in February, the Land Bank has taken in about 60 applications and fielded roughly 4,000 inquiries. Applications are due April 1, and a Land Bank panel will decide who gets the houses."

THERE ARE MORE THAN 1000 ABANDONED HOMES BLIGHTING KANSAS CITY'S URBAN CORE AND THIS EFFORT ISN'T EVEN A GOOD START IN FIXING THE PROBLEM!!!

Once again City Hall publicity and hype leave Kansas City disappointed as cruel reality offers very little hope of changing desperate circumstances within the urban core.In the coming days, a program offering local dilapidated houses for $1 comes to an end.About the effort:Here's the rub and the complaint from those who know better than TKC . . .Sadly, social media and newsies who don't really know a lot about Kansas City's diverse communities delivered the enthusiastic message without much context. The reality is: This smoke and mirrors effort represents nothing more than hype dedicated to pushing more taxes on Kansas City and the handful of houses that will be pawned off on suckers don't really improve so much local economic disparity which exists.You decide . . .
Lawman End Note Behind Bars

Raw Story: Missouri deputy who filmed himself sexually assaulting women while in uniform found dead in jail cell

Let Them Eat Gay Wedding Cake!!!

Note To Red State 'Small Government' Middle-Class: Prez Obama Payz Ur Bills

Post Dispatch: Federal spending in Missouri equivalent of more than a fifth of economy

Right now Missouri politicos are confronting a quickly approaching May 13 deadline for the current session and about 1400 bills with 200 resolutions amid gridlock over a gay wedding cake crackdown.Meanwhile, across the state there's increasing violence and rampant economic decline.Take a look at some of the most captivating Show-Me State news stories . . .Oz 1st:Developing . . .
Uncommon Courage: "Stop SJR 39! There are many brave legislators, both Republicans and Democrats, who oppose this legislation. Missouri religious freedom is already protected by several Missouri statutes, the Missouri Constitution and the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Don't be fooled. This resolution, SJR39, is designed to discriminate against the LGBTQ community. This is not who we, as Missourians, are . . ."

Here's an important musical note from a Kansas City blogger against a controversial Missouri LGBT debate that will continue this week.Checkit . . .Developing . . .
Public Service News: Missouri Takes Steps to Address the "Graying" of Prison Population

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The number of older Americans serving prison sentences is on the rise, and those facilities weren't originally designed to accommodate an aging population.





Linda Redford is director of the Central Plains Geriatric Education Center at the University of Kansas.





She says Missouri is one state that has gotten ahead of the curve, by setting up enhanced-care units in some of the larger prisons and in some cases, people in prison are learning health-care skills by helping take care of each other . . .

An important reminder that the prison industrial complex isn't sustainable in the long term as healthcare for aging inmates becomes a concern.Checkit:Money quote . . .In other words, the jail house doc is the new hotness over so many prison trained lawyers.Developing . . .
Deputy Foreign Minister Dimitris Mardas revealed a plan Greek government has under consideration to offer refugees and migrants residence permission if they invest 250,000 euro in Greece.

If there are some of them who are able to invest 250,000 euros in the country, they will be treated more favorably as far as obtaining a residence permit is concerned, he said

Mr. Mardas expressed the difficulty of guarding Greeces sea borders on Sunday morning speaking to SKAI TV channel.

He was asked to comment on the implementation of EU-Turkey agreement on refugee and the phone call between Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras and Secretary General NATO Jens Stoltenberg, where Mr. Tsipras expressed Greeces dissatisfaction on the fact that Turkey does not actively contributes to the reduction of refugee flow to Greece.

NATO came to Aegean Sea and realized how difficult it is to manage the issue, the minister said, while stating that those who talk about Greeces exit from Schengen area are getting now the answer they deserve.

Resident permissions

Through political dialogue we will provide solutions, we are not alone as other states are, Mr. Mardas continued adding that the government will proceed to financial registration of immigrants. He also stressed that if there are some of them who are able to invest 250,000 euros in the country, they will be treated more favorably as far as obtaining a residence permit is concerned.

According to the Greek Law of Migration and Social Integration of 2014, investors and their families from third countries receive resident permissions when they buy real estate worth at least 250,000 euro in Greece. The bill trade real estate for residence permit for non -EU citizens was prepared by New Democracy/PASOK/DHMAR coalition government in November 2012, pushed through the parliament in February 2013 and was integrated in Migration Code in 2014.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
The Greek civil servants' union federation ADEDY on Monday announced a 24-hour strike on April 7 against planned social security reforms

The Greek civil servants' union federation ADEDY on Monday announced a 24-hour strike on April 7 against planned social security reforms.

It will also hold a rally at Klafthmonos square, at 11 am.

ADEDY issued a statement calling employees from all sectors to join the strike actions, in order to protest the governments pension system reform plans, which it claims will bring the collapse of social insurance.

According to the Federation, the pension reform will not salvage social insurance, but is rather the result of the third bailout provisions, which demand a reduction in pension expenses worth 1.8 billion for 2016 onwards.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Bahrain's real estate market has seen a significant growth in the last decade, thanks to its low investment and transaction costs compared to other GCC states, according to a report.



The flourishing market of Bahrain made it more resilient while facing the economic turbulences hitting GCC markets due to the oil price plunge as the total value of property deals remained stable at BD1 billion ($2.63 billion) in 2015 compared to the previous year, stated Weetas, a property management company based in Bahrain.



Despite the cautious market performance after the oil prices fall, the kingdoms real estate sector remained solid as deal values soared along with the sales and rental prices in the prime areas, it added.



Besides the buying and selling, the construction activity too picked up steam thus reflecting the companies confidence in Bahrains real estate market. Construction sector in Bahrain achieved a growth of seven per cent in the start of 2015, stated the report citing property expert CBRE.



The discovery of oil represents a turning point in Bahrains economic history. The annual budget of Bahrain, since the first discovery, totally depends on hydrocarbons product.



The second transformation in Bahrain economy started by the first oil crisis when the leadership realised that establishing a firm economy requires diversifying national resources instead of relying on oil incomes, said the Weetas in the report.



The government focused on developing different economic sectors including tourism and real estate by holding a number of partnerships with domestic, regional, and international entities.



According to Weetas, Bahrain shifted focus to property development nearly 10 years ago to make it a major source of national income almost equivalent to the oil sector.



Under its new development strategy, the kingdom first passed a freehold law which enabled foreigners to purchase properties in specific locations across the kingdom.



It started with a limited number of areas such as Seef, Juffair, Durrat Al Bahrain, and Amwaj, then expanded over the years to cover more areas, it stated.



Investors interest in purchasing in the promising market of Bahrain has risen especially in the last two years when property deal values soared to greater heights.



Many real estate investment and development companies entered Bahrain market to take advantage of the available propitious investment opportunities and participate in the real estate boom, said the report by Weetas.



This interest has invigorated supply and demand rates and boosted properties prices by 400 per cent during the last 10 years in certain areas, it added.



Another star attraction for overseas investors is the low investment costs in Bahrain (the average price of apartments sq m is $2,072 in the kingdom compared to $5,073 in the UAE).



Also the transactions costs in Bahrain are lower than the neighbouring countries which puts its real estate market in a privileged position offering high investment yields and capital growth, said Weetaas in the report.



Added to all this is the ease of doing business in Bahrain for property investors and the country's relatively low cost of living for both citizens and expats.



The kingdom is considered one of the most convenient locations worldwide for expats due to its low rental and living prices. All these factors contributed in stimulating the markets activity, it stated.



Over the last few years, Bahrain has been witnessing a number of new developments such as the $2.5-billion Bahrain Bay project which lies in the north of the kingdom.



The real estate development at the project is being carried out by a number of prominent domestic and regional companies like Bin Faqeeh, according to the report.



Several other projects are on track for completion this year in Bahrain Bay such as the United Tower.



Weetas pointed out that the high investment yields, high rental yields, market stability, and strict framework, were some of the vital factors that have drawn foreign investors and companies to Bahrain.



A number of projects are under way in Bahrain such as Marassi which was officially launched last year, said the property management firm in its statement.



A key project which represents a qualitative leap in Bahrains urban reality, Marassi is being executed by the UAE-based Eagle Hills.



In light of the ample prospects and the robust economic performance, the market is projected to witness even better growth rates in the coming years which will qualify it to be a real traction point for real estate investors despite its small area, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
The trade between Qatar and the Association of South East Association Nations (Asean) reached a total of $16 billion in 2014, and is expected to further rise in coming years, according to a top official.



Wong Kwok Pun, chairman of the Asean Committee in Doha and ambassador of Singapore to Qatar made the statements during the recent Asean-Qatar Chamber Joint Business Seminar organised at the chambers headquarters, added the Peninsula Qatar report.



Pun said that Asean, a group of 10 countries, was set up in 1967 to promote cultural, economic and political development in the region, and it offers huge opportunity for Qatars businessmen and investors in oil and gas, minerals, forestry and agriculture sector.



Aseans, in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) is the seventh largest economy in the world and the third largest economy in Asia. It is also a big market with around 622 million people living in the member countries, it said.



Asean countries attracted about $136bn foreign direct investment (FDI) across the globe, in which FDI from the US amounted to around $24 billion.



Mohamed bin Ahmed bin Twar Al Kawari, vice chairman, Qatar Chamber said that Qatar is keen to promote trade and cooperation with Asean members. He invited businessmen and investors from Asean to explore opportunity in the country. During the seminar, representatives from Brunei, Indonesian, Malaysian, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam Embassy gave presentations highlighting opportunities for Qatari businessmen and investors, it said.



Pun noted that the group has signed Free Trade Agreements with countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand. These agreements were signed to integrate Asean economies with global economy, added the report.
Exporting to the booming markets of South East Asia will be the focus of three upcoming workshops organised by Ithraa, a leading inward investment export development agency in Oman.



The workshops are scheduled to be held in Sohar, Muscat and Salalah, said a statement from the company.



The three workshops, organised by Ithraas directorate general of export development, have been designed specifically to help Omani non-oil exporters understand the potential of exporting to Singapore and using the wealthy city-state as a launch-pad into markets in Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam, it added.



Based on an in-depth market study, the company has identified 50 Omani products that have the ability to compete in Singapore, including fish, foodstuff, dates, marble and stone, plastics and chemicals, it said.



The three workshops will take place March 28 at Sohars Crowne Plaza Hotel; March 30 at the Muscat Inter-Continental Hotel; and April 4 at the Hilton Hotel in Salalah, it stated.



The Ithraa study provides Omani exporters interested in the Singaporean market with detailed trade information related to competitors, export and import data, domestic consumption trends, custom duties, taxes, handling charges and opportunities to export under the GCC  Singapore free trade agreement. In addition, the study, contains information on Singaporean importers interested in sourcing Oman made goods, added the statement.



The Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean) is an increasingly important economic region of 620 million residents and considerably larger than the European Union, it said.



Additionally, to maximise the benefits of the study, Ithraa will also organise a series of business-to-business (B2B) meetings in Singapore later this year in co-ordination with Omans General Consulate in Singapore and Muscat-based Advanced Business Consultants.



Nasima Al Balushi, Ithraas director general of export development and organiser of the workshops, said: It is predicted that the Asean economy will become the fourth largest single market by 2030, and an additional 200 million residents from the region will enter the middle class. This growth in consumers presents exciting opportunities for non-oil Omani exporters.



As its most developed economy and regional trade hub, Singapore is a natural starting point and gateway into the Asean region. It is in many ways the ideal location for Omani exporters to operate their regional businesses from, she added.  TradeArabia News Service
Shortly after 12:00 noon the international radio distress signal used by ships and aircraft mayday was picked up by Blue Reef Watersports Parasailing boat Captain Thomas Tom Brown aboard his boat Frayed Knot.



(TRAVPR.COM) USVI - March 28th, 2016 - Shortly after 12:00 noon the international radio distress signal used by ships and aircraft mayday was picked up by Blue Reef Watersports Parasailing boat Captain Thomas Tom Brown aboard his boat Frayed Knot.

Just off the shores of Morning Star beach near Charlotte Amalie harbor a boat registered in Puerto Rico: The Emmual was sinking fast after hitting a treacherous reef called Triangle Reef.

Aboard the sinking vessel where nine people including two women, five men and two children all vacationing in the Virgin Islands from Puerto Rico.

With the assistance of the company SeaTow, Tom Brown, a 100 Ton US Coast Guard Master Captain since 1985 utilized his experience as an Army Medic, Registered Nurse and Combat Medic in the National Guard to corral the stranded vacationers into his watercraft and took them to safety.

Blue Reef Watersports spokesperson Rich Sadler stated: Blue Reef Watersports was honored to be of assistance today and we are relieved disaster was averted for this wonderful family.

Its also been reported that the sunken vessel was later raised by a salvage crew using inflatable marine salvage bags. They brought the Emmual, a research boat for a school to the surface, repaired the damage, pumped out the sea water and all was good again.

To know more about Blue Reef Watersports or Parasailing St Thomas, please visit www.ParasailingStThomas.com. For inquiries, please call 340-626-7609 or email Rich Sadler at richabundance@gmail.com.

Contact Information:

Company: Blue Reef Watersports

Business Owner: Mike Tarantino (Marketing Director: Rich Sadler)

Address: 6501 Redhook Plaza, Suite 201 | St. Thomas, USVI 00802

Phone: 340-626-7609

Email: richabundance@gmail.com

Website: www.ParasailingStThomas.com

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Leading safari operator, Acacia Africa, will launch six new overland tours in June.



(TRAVPR.COM) UK - March 28th, 2016 - In June, Acacia Africa will launch six new overland expeditions covering Southern Africa. Ranging from four to 46 days many of the itineraries include stops in the intriguing Kingdom of Swaziland and less well-travelled Lesotho.

Arno Delport, Sales & Marketing Manager at Acacia Africa comments, Our new overland tours will bolster what are already strong sales for South Africa. Over the last five years sterling has doubled in value against the rand and the budget friendly destination appeals to our core market of youth travellers - the new seven day Kruger, Swazi and Beach priced from only 325pp. A great time to visit the province of KwaZulu-Natal, this year the country will celebrate the 200th birthday of the Zulu nation, and while it may be southern Africas smallest country, experts are also suggesting that the tiny Kingdom of Swaziland could well become Africas new adventure capital in 2016.

The seven day Kruger, Swazi & Beach kicks off with Big Five game drives in the Kruger. A river cruise at the coastal town of St. Lucia, safaris in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve and optional mountain biking in Swazilands Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary also feature on the itinerary. From 325pp (no single supplement).

On the 19 day Kruger To Cape Town clients will have the opportunity to peer into the heart and soul of ancient cultures on village visits in Swaziland and Lesotho and explore South Africas historic battlefields on a guided tour. Skirting South Africas wild coastline and Indian Ocean beaches adventurers will have their pick of watersports, and with the promise of Big Five and Big Seven wildlife watching the expedition is bound to excite safari-goers. From 825pp (no single supplement) + adventure pass from 100pp.

Additional new overland tours include, the four day Kruger Safari, 12 day Coast, Lesotho & Cape Town, 40 day Southern Africa Adventurer and 46 day Southern Africa Explorer.

All prices include transport, camping accommodation, most meals and services of a tour leader/driver. 18-39 years. Acacia Africa (020 7706 4700). SATSA membership No. 1931, ATOL No. 6499 and ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.

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Acacia Africa launches three new small group safaris focusing on Zimbabwe



(TRAVPR.COM) UK - March 28th, 2016 - This year, Acacia Africa is putting Zimbabwe back in the safari spotlight. Three of its small group safaris including the 14 day Southern Africa Magic, seven day Kruger & Victoria Falls and 11 day Delta and Chobe Waterways will now make several stops in the country.

All of the itineraries will visit the Victoria Falls, Bulawayo and the Matobo National Park - one of the best places to view rhino in Africa.

Arno Delport, Sales & Marketing Manager at Acacia Africa comments Zimbabwe is a rising star on the Africa travel circuit, the country continuing to grow in popularity. The recent opening of Zimbabwes new US$150m Victoria Falls International Airport terminal and the possibility of direct flights from the UK could also be a game changer for travellers when it comes to their choice of safari destination.

14 day Southern Africa Magic from 1,395pp (two sharing) + Safari Pass from 870pp including transport, accommodation (twin share chalets and guest houses with en-suite facilities 12 nights, pre-erected tent with en-suite facilities one night), most meals and services of as tour leader/driver. Guaranteed departures 23 April and 07 May.

Acacia Africa (020 7706 4700) SATSA membership No. 1931, ATOL No. 6499 and ABTA No. W4093 PROTECTED.

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California continues to forge a solar future for itself. The latest is the approval of rules that require new houses and low-rise apartment buildings to have some form of solar power.

While some cities in the state already have this requirement (and other states have considered such legislation,) the Golden State becomes the first in the United States to codify solar requirements in its building code. The California Energy Commission approved the changes to the building code on May 9

The requirements will apply to any building permits issued after Jan. 1, 2020.

A solar panel on every roof

The new requirements are in step with other laws on the books regarding energy consumption in California.

For instance, by 2030, 50 percent of the state's energy electricity must come from noncarbon-producing sources, and solar has been one of the primary sources California has invested in to achieve that goal. Additionally, the goal is expected to further boost the state's solar industry, which is already getting plenty of attention.

"This is a very large market expansion for solar," Lynn Jurich, co-founder and co-chief executive of Sunrun, a leading solar installation company, told The New York Times. "It's very cost effective to do it this way, and customers want it."

"There's also this real American sense of freedom of producing electricity on my rooftop," she added. "And it's another example of California leading the way."

California plans to have 50 percent of its electricity generated by alternative energy sources by 2030. Bureau of Land Management/flickr

It's not only an issue of producing the electricity, of course. Residents also have to be able to use it. The new rules encourage builders to install home batteries as well, giving residents the option of using the energy directly instead of funneling it to the grid. Having a battery will also help residents save on their utilities under the new rate structure, which rolls out next year and charges customers based on the time of day they use electricity. Having it stored in a battery will help residents avoid higher costs during prime usage times.

Pierre Delforge, senior scientist for the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) called the new rules "groundbreaking" in a statement and and that they will help Californians save money and reduce their carbon footprint

The new rules will "save Californians more than $1.7 billion in net energy savings over the next 30 years and reduce carbon pollution statewide by 1.4 million metric tons," Delforge wrote. "This is equivalent to the emissions from the annual electricity use of all households in the city of San Francisco.".

The new regulations also require other energy-efficiency measures, including insulation and better windows.

Too much green to be green?

Of course, those savings won't be immediately apparent to new home buyers.

The commission acknowledged that the solar panel installation will result in an increased cost in home prices, with estimates ranging anywhere from $8,000 to $12,000 in additional cost, according to The Times. C.R. Herro, vice president of environmental affairs for Meritage Homes, told Consumer Affairs he estimates the new energy standards could add between $25,000 and $30,000 to construction costs.

Increasing housing costs are a legitimate concern in the state. Four of the nation's five most expensive housing markets in the fourth quarter of 2017 were in California, according to the National Association of Realtors. San Jose topped the list, with the median cost of an existing family home at $1.27 million. The lowest of the four, San Diego-Carlsbad, was $610,000.

Installing solar panels on new homes could increase the cost of homes by $10,000, if not more. Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock

"The state's housing crisis is real," State Assemblyman Brian Dahle told USA Today. "California's affordability problem is making it more and more difficult for people to afford to live here."

The commission and the construction industry, which is generally positive on the new rules, say the increased costs will be offset by the energy savings residents see over the course of the home's lifetime.

The Energy Commission estimates the new standards will add about $40 to an average monthly payment on a 30-year mortgage but will also save consumers $80 on monthly heating, cooling and lighting bills, per The Times.

Additionally, the NRDC argues that the new rules will still help low-income residents. They spend twice as much on energy per dollar of income than the statewide average, the NRDC says, and these efficiency improvements will "provide relief" from expensive energy bills.
An international agency that once brushed off the potential of wind energy has become one its biggest supporters.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) released a special report on wind power, saying that with continued improvements in technology and support from governments, offshore wind farms could generate more than 420,000 terawatt-hours per year worldwide  which is more than 18 times global electricity demand today.

Offshore Wind Outlook 2019 is a 98-page document that looks at technological advances, market forces and a geospatial analysis of where wind power can work. It's a snippet of the group's annual world energy report, which will be released on Nov. 13. IEA, which was founded in 1974 to coordinate a response to disruptions in the flow of oil, has since expanded to explore all energy issues.

"Offshore wind currently provides just 0.3% of global power generation, but its potential is vast," said Dr. Fatih Birol, the IEAs executive director, in a press release. "More and more of that potential is coming within reach, but much work remains to be done by governments and industry for it to become a mainstay of clean energy transitions."

It's also an economic opportunity as wind is on track to become a $1 trillion business, which may explain, in part, the agency's dramatic change of heart. As David Vetter explains in Forbes:

"...the IEA was for many years unconvinced of the potential of renewable energy sources, including wind, to produce sufficient energy for the worlds needs. In 2000, renewables were little more than an 'also-ran' category in the agencys report for that year."

Science is changing attitudes toward wind power

The first floating offshore wind turbine, floatgen, is pictured off La Turballe in western France. SEBASTIEN SALOM GOMIS / AFP / Getty Images

This backs up earlier research looking at the amount of wind energy available for harvest over our oceans. According to the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, there's enough energy over the oceans to "potentially provide civilization-scale power."

To harvest that power, we would need to cover enormous stretches of the sea with turbines, a monumental engineering feat that would also have real environmental consequences. So while actually powering human civilization with wind power alone is probably impractical, the study demonstrates that floating wind farms have an immense untapped potential.

"I would look at this as kind of a green light for that industry from a geophysical point of view," said one of the study's researchers, Ken Caldeira of the Carnegie Institution for Science in Stanford, California.

The reason offshore wind power has so much more potential than land-based wind farms is that wind speeds can be as much as 70 percent higher over the sea. Part of that is because natural and human structures on land create friction that slows wind down, but researchers also found that wind over the ocean circulates from higher altitudes.

"Over land, the turbines are just sort of scraping the kinetic energy out of the lowest part of the atmosphere, whereas over the ocean, its depleting the kinetic energy out of most of the troposphere, or the lower part of the atmosphere," explained Caldeira.

The study found that it would take a 3 million square kilometer wind installation over the ocean to provide all of humanitys current power needs, or 18 terawatts. That's a lot of turbines; it would need to cover an area roughly the size of Greenland. Still, it's possible.
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 27

Kin of freedom fighters from all over the country under the banner of the Akhil Bhartiya Swatantrata Senani and the Uttaradhikari Sanyukt Sangathan have demanded extension of benefits being provided to their families to one more generation.

They alleged that they were being ignored by the consecutive governments and remembered only on the Independence and Republic Day celebrations.

The association general secretary Dharamvir Paliwal alleged that the government had issued notifications and orders granting various facilities to descendents of freedom fighters, but they were hardly implemented by the state governments in letter and spirit. For decades after the Independence they were ignored continuously, he added.

He said the main motive of the sangathan was to bring all the families of freedom fighters on a common platform so that they could raise their genuine issue. Citing an example, Paliwal said the Union government had issued an advisory to the state governments for providing free bus passes to descendents of freedom fighters. It had issued around eight reminders to the Punjab government in this connection, which was yet to issue any guidelines in this regard. He said the Uttarakhand government had provided maximum number of facilities to descendants of freedom fighters.

He alleged that the freedom fighter quota was also not implemented properly in the central and state government jobs. He said, The government provides three per cent quota to handicap, ex-servicemen, backward classes and then to the freedom fighters descendents. By the time the turn of freedom fighters comes, vacancies are already occupied by the people of other categories.

The association is trying to gather support from families of freedom fighters living all over the country. The association is also seeking pension, free bus and train passes, reservation in higher education, and exemption from toll tax among other facilities.

The sangathan argued that pension to the third generation of British soldiers was still provided by the Indian government. Indian freedom fighters should also be given pension on the same lines, added the sangathan. Members of the sangathan also demanded that the word dependent used to refer to the family members and descendents should be replaced by (Uttraadhikari) heir. Various families demanded the mandatory listing without which pensions and other facilities were not provided to them under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme 1980.

Paliwal along with the descendents of India National Army also met Bhushan Behl, president and other members of Jallianwala Bagh Shaheed Parivar Samittee and highlighted their motive. Families of martyrs of Jallianwala Bagh massacre were granted the status of freedom fighters in 2008.
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 28

Members of the Private College Non-teaching Employees Union will hold a protest for acceptance of their demands at Guru Nanak Dev University here tomorrow.

Union president Madan Lal Khullar said the agitation would be held in front of the office of Vice-Chancellor, Dr AS Brar. He said non-teaching employees from nearly 65 colleges were expected to take part in the protest. Our main demands from the university include grant of leave encashment and earned leave, he added.

He said the VC granted benefit of leave encashment to college Principals and teachers while non-teaching employees were deliberately kept out of its purview. He added that on the other hand non-teaching employees of Panjab University, Chandigarh, and Punjabi University, Patiala, were already enjoying the same benefit.
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 28

Nearly a month-long agitation by jewellers against the Union government has triggered a return of skilled artisans to their native places.

Jewellers are protesting against the proposed central excise duty on gold and diamond jewellery.

As a majority of the locals are involved in trading, most skilled gold and diamond artisans working in the holy city are from West Bengal and Maharashtra.

Trading in gold and diamond ornaments has come to a standstill. These craftsmen, who hail from West Bengal and Maharashtra, decided to return to their native towns and villages to meet their family and friends.

An ornament trader Supreet Singh Kanda said, The production of ornaments has come to a naught after the agitation began. He said as the agitation was dragging on, many artisans thought of using the time as a break.

Artisans who have come here from various cities and villages of Maharashtra are skilled in melting the yellow metal and refining it, he added. He said it was a challenging time for artisans as their survival depends upon their daily earning.

Another gold trader Harjit Singh Kakkar said the strike has put a full stop not only on sales, but manufacturing of jewellery as well. He said artisans from West Bengal were involved in preparing all kinds of designer jewellery, including diamond-studded ornaments. These artisans arrived here from various parts of West Bengal, he added.

He said, They face an uncertain future. Many artisans have gone back to their native places.
Pawan Munjal

chairman and CEO, Hero MotoCorp,

talks to Girja Shankar Kaura

After parting ways with Japanese automobile giant Honda, Hero MotoCorp the worlds largest manufacturer of two-wheelers (by numbers)  has been concentrating on developing next-generation two-wheelers on its own. Pawan Munjal, chairman and CEO, Hero MotoCorp, talks to Girja Shankar Kaura about its recently inaugurated Centre of Innovation and Technology on the Delhi-Jaipur road.

Q: What is the relevance of the Centre of Innovation and Technology (CIT) for Hero MotoCorp?

Five years ago, when we commenced our solo journey, we had two major objectives. First, we wanted to scale up our own world-class research and development capabilities so that we are no longer dependent on any technology partner. We also wanted to establish Hero as a global brand.

With the CIT now becoming operational, we have the ideal combination of world-class infrastructure and talent pool to develop modern, youthful, technologically superior products for markets across the globe. Over the past few years, we have also expanded our global footprint to 30 countries across Asia, Africa and South and Central America, while consolidating leadership at home. We have set up our first manufacturing facility in Colombia while another is coming up in Bangladesh.

Q: How is the CIT different from other R&D centres around the world?

The CIT houses all aspects of research and development under a roof, including self-sufficient facilities for new product design, prototype manufacturing, testing and validation. At present, we have 500 engineers working at the CIT, which is being headed by Markus Braunsperger. This number will go up to about 600 towards the end of the next fiscal year.

Q: With the CIT being operational, does it mean Hero will now shift its focus from the commuter segment?

I have said this before also; the CIT will be the new nerve-centre for all our future line-up of models across segments. The first motorcycle developed by our in-house R&D centre was new Splendor iSmart 110cc. This shows that we want to strengthen our core customer base, especially in the commuter segment. We will also gradually move to the value chain to design and develop products in the higher engine displacement segment.

Q: How critical are other segments for Hero to maintain its market leadership?

We have remained the market leader for 15 years now, and this has been possible due to our popular products across segments. Hero MotoCorp has been the leader in the 100cc segment. We also have the largest market share in the 125cc segment. We are rapidly gaining market share in the scooter segment.
Saurabh Malik

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 28

The Army was sent to protect judicial officers at the instance of the Acting Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court during the Jat agitation. Information to this effect was furnished before a Division Bench during the hearing of petitions hovering around the lawlessness in the state during the agitation last month.

As the case came up for hearing, the Bench of Justice SS Saron and Justice Gurmit Ram was told by the amicus curiae, or the friend of the court, Anupam Gupta, that the state failed to protect judicial officers.

The assertion came just about a fortnight after a Rohtak Court recorded in its order the details of attack on the houses of judicial officers. In his order, Rohtak Sessions Judge Sushil K. Gupta asserted: It appears the curfew was only on papers. There was a complete collapse of the law and order machinery.

Even the gate lights, name plates and sign boards of the Sessions House were broken. All judicial officers were so afraid that on the evening of February 20, they had to run out of their houses to seek shelter at a safe place. The observations were made during the hearing of a bail plea by Virender Kumar, an aide of former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

During the course of hearing this afternoon, Gupta also referred to a letter by Bhiwani Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-secretary of the District Legal Services Authority Swati Sehgal.

Addressed to Panchkula District and Sessions Judge-member secretary of the Haryana State Legal Services Authority, the letter said: It has been told to me that from February 20 till February 29, the police guards deputed for the safety and protection of the court complex were disarmed. No intimation of the aforesaid action was given by the police department SP to the District Judge nor the guards deputed at the court complex bothered to inform the District Judge or any other judicial officer about the same.

As per the information, during the Jat agitation, the DC and all officers of the administration and their families were at the residence of the SP for their safety, where a special guard was deputed.

Judicial officers posted in Bhiwani had several sleepless nights. Neither the police nor the administration, took the responsibility of safeguarding the families of judicial officers, she added. The Bench took note of the communication before fixing April 4 as the next date of hearing.
Kuldeep Chauhan

Tribune News Service

Shimla, March 28

Supported by CITU, project workers today staged a protest in Reckong Peo under the banner of the 450-MW Shongtong-Karcham Hydel Project Workers Union demanding three-month pending wages as per the minimum wages Act, implementation of labour and tribal laws and lifting of Section 144 from the project site.

Raising slogans against the district administration and Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL), workers and the project-affected farmers from four gram panchayats of Rali, Barang, Powari and Kwangi gheraoed the office of the general manager, HPPCL, which is executing the project on the Satluj river.

Leaders of the workers union Satya Prakash Negi, Shakti Negi and Jeet Negi accused the Patel Engineering Company, HPPCLs main contractor and its subcontractors of cheating the workers ever since the company started its work in 2013. The company and its subcontractors are not making EPF contribution, pay no money for overtime, pay no tribal wages and tunnel allowance as provided under the labour laws, they said.

The workers rued that there were no proper lodging and medical facilities at the project site for them. Workers have not got wages for three months even as the strike entered 15th day today, they said.

The project-affected farmers in four gram panchyats claimed that the HPPCL had not compensated them amply for their land acquired for the project.

CITU leader Vijender Mehra alleged that the district administration, Kinnaur, and the HPPCL were intimidating workers by imposing Section 144 to suppress their genuine demands. The workers strike has been peaceful and it was under the influence of local Congress legislator that three workers were thrashed, while seven were suspended, he alleged.

Kinnaur legislator Jagat Negi, who is also Deputy Speaker in the Vidhan Sabha, trashed CITU charges saying that Section 144 was imposed on the project site because CITU was breaching peace at the project site, influencing the workers.

However, HPPCL Managing Director DK Sharma said the company was making EPF contribution to workers and all rules and labour laws were being followed. A meeting has been called in Shimla to resolve the deadlock, he added.
Dinesh Manhotra

Tribune News Service

Jammu, March 27

After PDP president Mehbooba Mufti staked claim to form a coalition government with the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir, hectic lobbying has begun among the disciplined leaders of the saffron party to get ministerial berths.

While some leaders have rushed to New Delhi to seek the blessings of their political mentors, a good number of ministerial aspirants have thronged the state RSS headquarters Vir Bhawan here with their performance reports to convince the Sangh Parivar leadership of their competence.

Although there is no official communique from the BJP leadership on either removing former ministers or including new faces in the new Cabinet, speculation is rife about a change in the old order.

The process to select ministers will begin only after both parties fix a date for the oath-taking ceremony, said a senior Sangh Parivar activist who wished not to be named. There is a possibility of bringing some new faces in the Council of Ministers because the performance of some former BJP ministers has not been up to the mark, added the Sangh leader.

Highly placed sources said two former Cabinet ministers and Ministers of State (MoS) might not get inducted this time but the final decision will be taken only after discussions among all organisations of the Sangh Parivar. Within a day or two, senior leaders of the Sangh Parivar will sit together to discuss the composition of the Council of Ministers, a source said, adding that the initial discussion in the matter was held during a meeting of senior RSS leaders with BJP general secretary Ram Madhav on Friday.

Two senior RSS functionaries held detailed discussions with Ram Madhav on Friday to discuss the performance of the BJP leaders who were ministers in the previous coalition.

Sources in the BJP said two senior party leaders, who were ministers in the Mufti government, have rushed to New Delhi to seek the support of their political mentors to retain their ministerial berths in the new government.

Vir Bhawan was abuzz with activity today as party MLAs and their supporters thronged the RSS headquarters to press for the cause of their respective leaders.

Aspirants out to impress RSS

BJP leaders, aspiring for ministerial berths, are busy convincing the RSS leadership, especially Prant Pracharak Ramesh Pappa. The aspirants are aware that the RSS team will take the final call on the composition of Council of Ministers. They are trying to persuade the Sang leaders about their commitment to the party and the people.

All is not well in BJP

Bickering in the state unit of the BJP came to the fore on Saturday when state president of the party Sat Sharma did not to accompany legislature party leader Nirmal Singh to meet Governor NN Vohra to hand over the letter of support to the PDP. Sharma refused to accompany Singh to lodge his protest. Sources said earlier it was decided that three top BJP leaders, namely Sat Sharma, Nirmal Singh and LS member Jugal Kishore Sharma, would meet the Governor but due to bickering in the party Singh went alone to hand over the letter of support. Both Sat and Jugal are tightlipped about skipping the meeting with Governor. It is believed that the party leadership has failed to arrive at a consensus on the composition of Council of Ministers and other modalities.
Our Correspondent

Poonch, March 28

Hundreds of people from Poonch city this morning protested the failure of the authorities to initiate work on the damaged Nangali Bridge and Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge.

The bridges were badly damaged during the 2014 flash floods, cutting off Poonch city from the rest of the state.

Protesters blocked the Poonch-Jammu highway for nearly two hours near Nangali Bailey Bridge this morning.

They alleged that the 2014 flash floods had damaged the two important bridges, but the authorities had failed to renovate them.

Nishu Sharma, president, Poonch Development Forum, who was leading the protest, said: Crores of rupees have been spent in the name of the 2014 floods but the key bridges, which connect Poonch city with rest of the state, have not been renovated. One of the Bailey bridges on the Pulast river was washed away while Nangali Bridge is on the verge of collapse.

The government has put our lives in danger by not reconstructing Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge. Whenever it rains, we have to risk our lives while crossing the river to reachour destination across the Pulast. The absence of connectivity has also affected business in Poonch city, said Nishu Sharma.

As the authorities have not yet started work on Nangali Bridge, the Poonch-Jammu highway often witnesses traffic jams, causing inconvenience to commuters.

Every time we meet the authorities, they promise us that work on Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge will be completed soon. Even after more than oneand a half years, the situation has not improved, said Imtiaz Salaria, another protester.

It is not only the people who are suffering in the absence of Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge, but the business community is also suffering huge losses. The business community in Poonch city will be forced to close down their shops if the bridge is not restored soon, said the Poonch Development Forum president.

Station House Officer, Poonch, Jatinder Raina along with Roads and Buildings officials rushed to the spot and to pacify the protesters.

The protesters were promised that thework on Sher-e-Kashmir Bridge would be completed within two months, while Nangali Bridge would also be renovated soon.

The protesters called off the protest, but warned of serious consequences if the bridges were not renovated within a month.
New Delhi, March 27

Security was tightened at the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday after a hotel nearby received an anonymous call warning of bomb threat to six flights.

"The call was made to a hotel in Paschim Vihar (West Delhi) at around 3 pm with the anonymous caller saying that bombs have been planted on six flights, including a Jet Airways plane," a source said.

The caller named several flights, some of them that didn't exist, the source said.

The Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) is currently investigating the source of the call.

"BTAC meeting is underway to check to whether it is a specific or non-specific call," the source said.

Bomb scare on Delhi-Kathmandu flight

Airport authorities in Nepals Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport evacuated passengers from a Delhi-bound Jet Airways flight after airport authorities received a call about a bomb in the plane on Sunday.

Officials said someone made a phone call at the Jet Airways office in New Delhi and informed airline officials that a bomb has been planted on the Delhi-bound plane.

"We conducted a search in the plane after evacuating all the passengers," said Devendra KC, spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.

Nothing was found inside the Boeing 737 plane.

The plane carrying 169 people  including crew  was scheduled to take off from the airport at 4.20 pm.

The plane was kept in an isolation bay and searched by a bomb disposal squad of the Nepal Army.

All national and international flights were cancelled up to 6 pm after the bomb scare, officials said.

Deputy Inspector General Madhav Joshi  also the spokesperson of Nepal Police  confirmed airport security officials received a call about a bomb on the Delhi-bound flight.

"We evacuated the pasengers and are conducting a search. Passengers were told the flight was delayed due to bad weather. The flight was put on hold and a search is going on," he said.

Defence analyst and retired army officer Major General Ashok Mehta, who was to take the flight, said: "We have not been told anything about the flight delay. We heard rumors about a bomb being planted. Officials are searching the plane". Security was stepped up at the airport after the threat.

Nick Talbot, a passenger and mountain climber, tweeted: "We are only plane to land in fog in Kathmandu and being held in a secure zone without hand luggage, apparently we are a security risk!" "Airport closed as apparently someone reported a bomb on our plane. Yes now lined up on runway," he posted later.

The frequency of hoax calls to airports across India has increased lately, with several airlines in various airports across the country reporting them in the past week.

Jet Airways received a call warning it of bombs in five aircrafts on March 22, hours after explosions at an airport and a metro station in Belgiums Brussels killed 28 people. The Islamic State claimed the attacks.

A day later on March 23, security at airports across the country  already tightened after the Brussels attack  were further heightened after a call from the US warned possible explosions in 11 flights of the low-budget IndiGo.

On March 24, when the country celebrated Holi, security on Air India's flights was stepped up after the airline's Mumbai office received threats of bombs on its flights.  Agencies
New Delhi, March 28

A Special Court on Monday convicted Jharkhand Ispat Pvt Ltd (JIPL) and its two directors R. S. Rungta and R. C. Rungta in a case pertaining to irregularities in allotment of a coal block in the state to the firm, the first judgment in the coal scam.

Special CBI Judge Bharat Parashar held the company and its two directors guilty of the offences under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of IPC.

This is the first coal block allocation scam case in which the special court, which was set up to exclusively deal with all the coal scam matters, has delivered its judgment.

The court ordered that R.S. Rungta and R.C. Rungta, who were out on bail, be taken into custody and fixed the matter for March 31 for hearing arguments on the quantum of sentence.

The case pertains to irregularities in allocation of North Dhadu coal block by the 27th and 30th screening committees jointly to JIPL and three other firms M/s Electro Steel Casting Ltd, M/s Adhunik Alloys and Power Ltd and M/s Pawanjay Steel and Power Ltd.  PTI
R Sedhuraman

Legal Correspondent

New Delhi, March 28

The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to hear All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on the validity of triple talaq, polygamy and remarriage restrictions on Muslim women. A Bench comprising Chief Justice TS Thakur and Justice UU Lalit also asked the central government to submit to the court the report of an experts panel that had studied the status of women since 1989 and the impact of personal laws on them.

AIMPLB has filed an application pleading to be heard on Supreme Courts move to go into the validity of personal laws in the context of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. The Board has taken a stand that Muslim personal laws were based on the tenets of Islam and as such the judiciary had no power to go into the validity of these laws.

The Bench sought the panels report on a PIL by Shayara Bano, a victim of triple talaq. Constituted in February 2012, the 14-member panel headed by Pam Rajput of Panjab University had submitted its report in 2015.

In its report titled Women and the law: An assessment of family laws with focus on laws relating to marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance and succession, the panel is understood to have recommended amendments to the Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939, banning triple talaq and polygamy and providing for statutory interim maintenance to Muslim women.

Since the report had not been made public, it should be produced in the Supreme Court, which was suo motu scrutinising personal laws, the petitioner said in an application.

Bano has pleaded for the triple talaq and polygamy to be declared illegal and unconstitutional as the provisions treated women like chattel belonging to men and militated against modern principles of human rights and gender equality.

She said she wanted to secure a life of dignity, unmarred by discrimination on the basis of gender or religion. Under the remarriage restrictions (nikah halala), Muslim women cannot marry a divorced man without an intervening marriage with another man.

In her petition, Bano pleaded that the marriage and divorce acts of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains and Parsies did not have such gender discriminatory provisions.

In fact, many Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Iraq, had banned or restricted such practices. However, practices continued to vex not only Indian Muslim women like the petitioner but also society at large.
Hoshiarpur, March 28

Denouncing the attack in Lahore, the Dal Khalsa said the people of East Punjab fully shared the sentiments and pain of their neighbour and reiterated that they stand with the people and the government of Pakistan at this difficult hour. We are perturbed over the mindless killing of innocent people in Lahore. Our heart goes out to the victims and their families, said party head Harchranjit Singh Dhami.

We send our condolences to the loved ones of those killed and the government of Pakistan, he said.  OC
Kabul, March 28

Militants fired four rockets at the Afghan Parliament today with one impacting the new building that was built with Indias assistance, media reports said.

The incident took place when senior security officials were on their way to the building to brief lawmakers on the current situation in the country, Khaama Press reported.

The other two rockets fired landed in surrounding areas while one of them landed in an army base nearby, eyewitnesses were quoted as saying. A lawmaker said the MPs and other people in the building were safe.

Todays attack came just over three months after the new Parliament building, built with Indias assistance, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The swanky new building was built by India at a cost of $90 million. The Parliament building project was started by India in 2007 as a mark of friendship and cooperation to help rebuild Afghanistan.

Todays incident also came days after a heavy blast rocked Kabul after a bike packed with explosives was detonated.  PTI
Washington, March 28

US Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of US foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliances overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.

President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trumps views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.

In another sharp departure from historic US policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.

The billionaire businessman, vying to win his partys nomination for the November 8 presidential election, also said he might halt US purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the US to do so.

NATO is obsolete, Trump said on ABCs This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It was ill-suited to fighting terrorism and cost the US too much, he added.

We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but its going to be changed, he said.

On March 21, Trump said the US should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.

Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but Chinese President Xi Jinping will.

Obama said the US would review international efforts to combat Islamic State in the wake of the Brussels attacks.

Trumps chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz, called the real estate moguls views on NATO catastrophically foolish. Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump was out of his depth.

Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all, Cruz said. It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS, the militant group also known as Islamic State.

Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to Islamic State would be to carpet bomb them into oblivion. In the interview, Trump also said he would be willing to withdraw US troops from Japan and South Korea unless the two countries paid more to house and feed them. Japan hosts about 50,000 US troops, while 28,500 are in South Korea.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo on Monday that there had been no change to Japans policy of not building, possessing or introducing nuclear weapons, and reiterated that no matter who became US president, the US-Japan alliance would remain the core of Japans diplomacy and vital for regional and world stability.

South Korea said it had continued to play a positive role in the US militarys presence in the country and for the allies ability to defend against the North and there was no change to its commitment to the mutual defense treaty establishing their military partnership.

Asked about the comments on considering allowing Japan and South Korea to build their own nuclear weapons, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said he had noted it was only a hypothetical situation.  Reuters
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ordered a North-Carolina-based company out of service that blatantly ignored federal safety regulations, from drivers having commercial licenses to driver logs to maintaining vehicles.

The agency ordered Hendersonville, N.C.-based Leslie Erickson, doing business as Less Tree and Stump Inc., USDOT No. 2512204, to immediately cease all intrastate and interstate operations after a federal investigation found the carrier to pose an imminent hazard to public safety.

The company fails to adequately maintain its vehicles, lacks a preventive vehicle maintenance program, and has a vehicle out-of-service rate dramatically above the industry average, notes the out of service order. It allows unqualified drivers to operate its vehicles, does not maintain complete driver qualification files, and has an almost non-existent drug and alcohol testing program. The company doesn't require drivers to keep hours of service logs or have any management practices in place to make sure drivers are operating within the hours of service.

It's not the first time the agency has shut down this carrier.

In June 2014, FMCSA approved Les's Tree and Stump's registration to operate in interstate commerce and told the copany it needed to conact FMCSA to schedule a new entrant safety audit. Despite repeated reminders, the company never contacted the agency, so the following February its regisration was revoked and the company was ordered to cease all interstate transportation



In July last year, FMCSA approved the company's reapplication for new entrant registration and again informed the carrier it must immediately contact FMCSA and schedule a new entrant safety audit.

The following month, one of the carrier's drivers crashed into four cars stopped at a traffic lightl. The following investigation found the driver did not possess a valid commercial drivers license, and seven of 10 brakes on the vehcle were inoperative or out of adjustment.

After the accident, it took repeated attempts for the agency to do a compliance investigation. Finally, in February the agency was able to do the investigation.

Violating an imminent hazard out-of-service order may result in a penalty of up to $25,000, operating without necessary authority may result in a fine of not less than $10,000, and operating without a USDOT number may result in a civil penalty of up to $16,000. A violation of this order may also result in a criminal penalty, including a fine of up to $25,000 and imprisonment not to exceed one year.

A copy of the imminent hazard out-of-service order can be viewed at www.fmcsa.dot.gov/newsroom/Leslie-Erickson-IHOOS.
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa.  Telligen Community Initiative (TCI), the private nonprofit foundation of Telligen Inc., announced a call for proposals from Oklahoma applicants for the 2016 grant period.

TCI will award single-year grants up to $50,000 to eligible organizations that work to improve the health of communities through innovative projects. Applications for the Oklahoma grant cycle will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. CST on May 11. Applicants will be notified of their award status in early August.

Since 2013, TCI has awarded nearly $2.9 million to nearly 80 organizations in Iowa, Illinois and Oklahoma.

We serve as a progressive grant-making organization committed to advancing community health, said TCI Executive Director Matt McGarvey. We support collaborative initiatives and provide funding to assist Oklahoma nonprofit organizations and communities in areas of health access, workforce development, and innovation.

In 2015  the first year of funding in Oklahoma  these 15 nonprofits were awarded one-year grants totaling more than $356,636:

 Bethesda Inc.

 Childrens Medical Research Inc.

 Community Action Project of Tulsa County Inc.

 Green Country Behavioral Health Services Inc.

 Health Alliance for the Uninsured

 Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa Inc.

 Mercy Health Foundation Oklahoma City

 NAMI Oklahoma

 Oklahoma Hospital Education & Research Foundation Trust

 Oklahoma State University Foundation

 Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma

 Rural Health Projects/Northwest Area Health Education Center

 SOS Serving Our Service Members Inc.

 University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

 University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine  Department of Medical Informatics

The commitment to annual funding in Oklahoma is part of TCIs overall vision to empower organizations and citizens to improve their individual and community health and ensure health opportunities are available and accessible to everyone.

Eligible organizations must be recognized as a federally tax-exempt section 501(3) charitable organization, an accredited school, or a public/government agency located in the state of Oklahoma.

For more information or to apply, please visit www.telligenci.org.
No one was injured after a fire destroyed eight boats at the Pier 51 Boat Marina Dock B at Keystone Lake Sunday night, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

The fire reportedly started on one of the unattended boats around 9:30 p.m. and spread to the others. The cause remains under investigation. The Oklahoma State Fire Marshals Office is helping with the investigation process.

The initial call was about eight boats fully engulfed and people trapped on one side of the dock, a report states.

Sand Springs Fire Chief Mike Wood said their fire department had an engine at the scene to help.

I wouldnt guess they were in danger, Wood said of the people stuck on one side of the dock. [Crews] loaded them up in a boat and took them to the bank.

He said the boat that started the fire probably sank.

Sam Schafnitt with the state Fire Marshals Office said the investigation is ongoing as of Monday afternoon.

We have boats burnt and we have some boats submerged, Schafnitt said.

The fire was under control by Sunday night, but charred boats remained at the pier Monday morning.

Kendra and Dusty Richmond lost their 43-foot Wellcraft Excalibur boat theyd got last July to the flames.

We got a call from some other dock owners. We werent sure if ours was affected, so my husband drove out here and it was engulfed, Kendra said. It started a couple boats down from ours.

She said she heard the fire may have been caused by a mechanical failure, but is uncertain of the cause.

Kendra said they plan to replace their boat.

Wellcruise again, she said.

The Keystone Volunteer Fire Department wasnt available for comment by press time. This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Lloyd Snow summed it up in one sentence.

Frank Cooper is one of the best Ive ever worked with, he said.

Thanks to a Tulsa County proclamation, Tuesday, March 22, 2016 was proclaimed Frank Cooper Day, an honor that is well-deserved.

Snow, the soon-to-be-retired superintendent of schools, said Cooper is a life changer, a dream maker and an excellent educator, but it goes beyond what the students learn in the classroom. As a matter of fact, sometimes, it isnt about that at all.

These students might not remember what he taught years down the road, but they will remember his support and kindness, Snow said.

A high school social studies and leadership teacher, Cooper was named the recipient of a medal for Excellence in Secondary Teaching.

Cooper, who entered the education field in 1993 after leaving his job as an attorney, was a finalist for Oklahoma Teacher of the Year in 2014, been named the Charles Page Teacher of the Year and the University of Tulsa Secondary School Award Teacher Prize for Inspiration.

He was a finalist a few years ago, but he deserved to be teacher of the year, Snow said.

His enthusiasm and pride in his school and community has left a lasting legacy on the community. Cooper will do just about anything to show his support of the students and the school.

Several times a year, Cooper dons a pair of tights, a cap and a helmet, transforming himself into Captain Sandite, the schools super hero. He leads the student body in chants and whips them into a frenzy.

He understands the development of young people and giving students the opportunity to succeed and believe in themselves. He teaches them work ethic, how to play with others and how to represent themselves respectfully and responsibly while making good decisions, Snow said.

Cooper has been a staple for Sand Springs over the past 23 years, and hes made an impact on a countless number of students. Copper deserved this day, and some would say he deserved his own week or even month.
When Oklahoma Department of Corrections employees received a news release in December announcing then-director Robert Pattons resignation Dec. 4, many responded to the news with surprise and joy and speculated whether his departure was connected to a grand jurys investigation into two execution drug mix-ups in January and September 2015, internal DOC records reveal.

Oklahoma Board of Corrections chairman Kevin Gross also removed a sentence in an earlier version of the news release that denied his exit was linked to the grand jury, telling DOC communications staff on Dec. 3 that We can talk about the grand jury. But I dont think drawing attention to it will prevent them from coming to the conclusion.

The Tulsa World received on Friday about 1,000 pages of emails related to discussions surrounding the resignation of Patton and the retirement of Oklahoma State Penitentiary Warden Anita Trammell Oct. 27. BuzzFeed News first reported on the contents of the emails on Thursday.

The records given to the World are part of a larger pending request that relates to records created and maintained beginning Oct. 1, 2015, one day after Gov. Mary Fallin issued an executive order staying Richard Glossips execution because DOC staff received an incorrect drug that, if used, would have violated protocol.

Fallins general counsel, Steve Mullins, also left his post amid the grand jury investigation, as did a member of the Board of Corrections because of a conflict of interest over his wifes employment within the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office.

The emails provide slightly more detail on Trammells retirement, with a DOC administrative assistant indicating that Trammell visited with a DOC official for a long time behind closed doors about her decision.

Pattons official reason for resigning was that he wanted to spend time with his family in Arizona, and he first emailed his assistant on Dec. 2 to ask her to draft a memo announcing the news to the Oklahoma Board of Corrections. While in Oklahoma, he oversaw the April 29, 2015, execution of Clayton Lockett  the first in the state to use the controversial drug midazolam  that went awry and brought international condemnation of Oklahoma practices, as well as Charles Warners lethal injection, which used potassium acetate instead of potassium chloride in a violation of DOC protocol.

While he and Trammell have testified before the grand jury, the DOC has publicly denied their exits are related to its inquiry into the agencys handling of Warners execution and the events leading up to Glossips stay. But a special agent who escorted Patton to official functions apparently believed otherwise, according to an email she sent a coworker.

However, she qualified her thoughts as pure speculation and said she knew he wouldnt stay long anyway due to poor health and homesickness.

Assuming he is being forced out because of the execution issues, it really was not his fault, agent Stephanie Burk said on Dec. 7. Burk did not immediately return a call made over the weekend for comment.

The pharmacist is the one who substituted the drug without telling us ... The doctor should have caught it too before it was used on Warner. He/she caught it before it was used on Glossip, which started the latest mess. He/she felt so bad and apologized profusely. But, someone had to take the fall and you cant fire the pharmacist or the doctor, so ...

The emails released so far also appear to indicate Patton, who spent just less than two years as director, wasnt well liked by a section of corrections staff, some of whom viewed the circumstances surrounding his resignation as suspect. He received a handful of emails from well-wishers in the days after his Dec. 4 announcement went public, but the majority of emails had a similar tone to an email staffer Donna Boone sent her colleague, Phillip Baker, on Dec. 8.

Baker had forwarded Boone a Dec. 7 Tulsa World article that discussed Patton being hired as deputy warden of Arizona State Prison-Kingman, a private facility managed by the GEO Group, and both expressed skepticism over his motivation to accept the offer.

I wonder if he will feel safe, without his body guards and bulletproof car, Boone wrote to Baker. Hmmmmm??? you know the old saying dont let the door hit you in the back side.

Baker, in his response, told Boone, Thats a valid question. And yes, I do know the saying, but I think there is a real issue with the door hitting a person in the backside ... as long as its with significant velocity .... Ouch! He also said in a separate thread that I understand why GEO got a max. contract now. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm.

Oklahoma Watch reported last December that Pattons employment at the Arizona prison could violate a law that bars state employees from taking jobs with private companies if they had a decision-making or discretionary role in creating a contract awarded to that company within the past year. Records indicate Patton signed a renewed and amended contract with GEO, which manages Lawton Correctional Center, Oct. 1, and he was present during discussions at a September Board of Corrections meeting.

When the World asked about the issue on Dec. 17, DOC spokesman Alex Gerszewski said Patton did not breach the statute. After reading the Oklahoma Watch story, however, two DOC employees at the Beaver Work Center said of Patton, Unbelievable. The nerve and appeared to indicate the story confirmed their belief that the move was suspicious.

Pursuant to state law, it is the board of corrections and not the director that has the discretionary and decision-making authority to enter into contracts with private prison contractors, Gerszewski said in December.

On Dec. 3, Gerszewski sent Gross a draft press release that included a quote from Gross and denied its connection to the grand jury investigation. In the draft, Gross quote said he encouraged Patton to stay but that it is hard to argue with the pull of family, and that he thrived at overseeing a difficult task.

However, Gross scrubbed the sentence about the grand jury and tempered his commendation of the former director, only saying Patton upheld the mission of the agency and helped to ensure public safety.

This is more the tone we need, Gross told Gerszewski. If you want to add some color back about thanking the department thats fine. But not all the language about regrets.

When asked about the edits Friday, Gerszewski told the World that Its uncommon for the first draft of a press release to be approved. He did not comment on Burks opinion of why Patton left the agency.

Gross said the press release edits were a correction of style that he often undertakes in his day job.

In terms of announcing peoples departures and arrivals and so forth, I tend to be more cut and dry, (like) Theyve left to pursue other interests, thank you, thank you, good luck. I thought one of the edits was just too laudatory ... I dont think the agency should use announcements to pat the director on the back. I think it should have been what it turned out to be, more factual. My style is just to be more cut and dry.

Of Patton, Gross also said he didnt have any concerns about his performance as director and was sorry to see him go, but understood he wanted to be closer to his family.

The grand jury will meet Tuesday through Thursday and could release its decision this week.

The state has not scheduled any executions pending the completion of the jurys investigation, and cannot set an execution date until at least 150 days after the decision is announced.
When a movie like My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 is released on the same weekend that all anyone can talk about is Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice, theres a reason.

Its counterprogramming: The superhero movie is heavy, dark drama; the wedding movie is light comedy. One is more for men; one is for females mostly.

Theres not-so-good news regarding both pictures: Theres so much going on (too much) in the Batman-fights-Superman movie that Ill probably check it out again, someday, just to see what I missed.

Theres so little at stake in My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 that Ill probably never see it again. Theres some simplistic fun but nothing more to see here.

Those who enjoyed the first Greek Wedding film (and I know there are millions of you out there; its still the No. 1 romantic comedy in history) might enjoy this movie.

But even from that crowd, Id guess its those who have incredibly low expectations of a sequel who will appreciate what actress-writer Nia Vardalos is doing here.

Watching the movie is something like blowing dandelion seeds: a brief moment of joy that passes quickly, meaninglessly disappearing into thin air, and you forget it ever happened.

Think of the 2002 original: A young Greek woman, Toula (Vardalos), falls for Ian, a man who is not Greek (John Corbett). Her clingy family finds it hard to accept him. She finds it hard to accept that part of her heritage if thats the way they feel.

Vardalos told a universal romance story in a personal, sweet and freshly funny way, and she was rewarded with a hit movie, a beloved comedy, even an Oscar nomination for the screenplay she wrote.

It took her 14 years to feel inspired enough to pen a sequel, and its a contrived, cutesy continuation of the Hey, look at my crazy family! plot and barely about her character at all.

The best news is that all of those great, colorful, loud family members return, and its a warm feeling to again see her loving, smothering parents (Lainie Kazan, Michael Constantine), the aunts (Andrea Martin is still a hoot) and those macho, protective brothers.

The worst news is rather than a meaningful story, they have shtick.

Hey, the Greeks invented this ... the dad hollers. Hey, I know a guy ... offers the brothers. Hey, you need to get married, repeats most every character in the movie.

The characters dont so much interact in any kind of real way as much as they squawk back and forth at each other.

Weve seen that bit before, and its disappointing that the only change is that now the one being urged to marry is Toulas and Ians 17-year-old daughter, whose prime concern is where to attend college: at home in Chicago or away from her crazy family.

Talented young actress Elena Kampouris is good as the torn teen, the new person in the cast who seems to be the only one fighting against the film being the equivalent of a bland network comedy episode.

Its unusual to watch Vardalos barely act but instead choose to react with open-mouthed looks of amazement at her familys silliness. There are also head shakes and hands thrown up in the air in exasperation.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 does have moments that will make you smile, and its still sweet to see a loving family rally around one another.

But all we get is the same characters  louder and sillier than the first time  and nothing more. Its about as fresh as a warmed-over dish of store-bought baklava.
OKLAHOMA CITY  Leaders of nearly 50 school districts are suing the state to recoup state aid funds that were erroneously paid to other school districts every year from 1992 through 2014.

Ponca City Superintendent David Pennington, who discovered the states error, has said the total impact of the calculation error could be upward of $300 million.

We simply believe that what has happened to our children and our taxpayers is unfair and deserves to be remedied, Pennington said Monday at an afternoon news conference. The diversion of funds violated state law, is unfair to the children and taxpayers in the local school districts and deserves to be remedied.

At issue is certain local property-tax revenue from commercial personal property and agricultural personal property. The percentage of a propertys market value that is taxed, called the assessment ratio, can vary from 10 percent to 15 percent from county to county.

A law passed in 1990 that was supposed to take effect in 1992  but didnt  called for schools to start retaining any property-tax revenue collected for these two categories of personal property above the states minimum assessment ratio of 11 percent.

The basis for the lawsuit is the claim that taxpayers in the counties where more than 150 affected school districts are located paid additional taxes for 22 years that should have remained with the local schools for the benefit of local children.

Instead, those dollars were diverted to other school districts where taxpayers paid a lower tax rate.

In their lawsuit, the 48 plaintiff districts are asking the Oklahoma Supreme Court to determine that the Oklahoma State Department of Education should correctly calculate state aid for fiscal years 1993-2014, collect over-payments that other school districts received and distribute those dollars to the 48 underpaid districts.

Outside of the news conference, Mike Garde, superintendent at Muskogee Public Schools, told the Tulsa World his district lost out on $3.8 million because of the error.

Its kind of hard  fiscally  not to go after that kind of loss of funding, Garde said.

He pointed out that the Muskogee district, before he was superintendent there, was found to have inflated its number of students in 1996 and faced consequences.

They made us pay it back, he said. To us, its the same scenario, just in the opposite direction.

There is a possibility that the other affected school districts who arent participating in the lawsuit could benefit, depending on the Supreme Courts ruling.

Pennington has told the Tulsa World he first discovered the states calculation error 10 years ago when he came to Ponca City from a smaller school district that didnt have nearly as much commercial and agricultural personal property being assessed. But he said he just couldnt get anyone in government to understand his claims at that time.

Pennington renewed his efforts to explain the situation in fall 2014; in December of that year, then-state Superintendent Janet Barresi publicly acknowledged the error.

Shortly after Joy Hofmeister took office as state superintendent in January 2015, she ordered $20 million in state aid withheld to correct the error for fiscal year 2015.

School board members in the most-affected school districts have pushed for a remedy that would restore all of their lost funds. Ponca City was soon joined by four other districts in hiring the Oklahoma City law firm of Crowe & Dunlevy to research state statute and case law on state aid errors.

That group took its legal arguments and request for corrective action to the state Department of Education in a letter and in-person meeting in July, but received no recourse.

Derald Glover, superintendent at Fort Gibson, said the estimated loss to his school district is $300,000.

You always hate it when theres winners and losers. In these financial times, you dont want anything to hurt public schools, Glover said in an interview with the World. In a system where every i has to be dotted and t has to be crossed, its pretty compelling this one would slip through that long.

Hofmeister, the Oklahoma Tax Commission and Oklahoma State Treasurer Ken Miller were named as defendants in the lawsuit.

Steffie Corcoran, a spokeswoman for the Oklahoma State Department of Education, said, We believe it would be inappropriate to comment on pending litigation.
2007

Bluejacket rancher gets sheep, cattle back

More than 1,200 sheep and 300 cattle were returned to Bluejacket rancher Bradley Bell, who was charged with allowing hundreds of animals in the same herds to starve to death. Bell, 46, agreed to pay $46,000 for the surviving herds care since they were seized Jan. 17 when officials found more than 700 dead sheep on Bells property. In 2008, Bell pleaded no contest to cruelty to animals and received a two-year deferred sentence and community service. He was also ordered to pay restitution. Bell was ordered not to own sheep or cattle, but he is allowed to have horses and donkeys.

2009

Tulsa gets record

snow in late March

A spring snowstorm dumped a record 6 inches of snow on Tulsa, breaking an 83-year-old record, as part of a system that caused heavy snow in Kansas and was blamed for two traffic deaths in Oklahoma. It was the heaviest snow after March 21 since March 31, 1926, when 3 inches fell. But the snowfall paled in comparison with that in western Oklahoma, where 25 inches fell in Harper County. Gov. Brad Henry declared an emergency in 50 of the states counties. Most of the snow was gone the next day when the temperature climbed to 71 degrees.

2012

Abortion ultrasound law ruled unconstitutional

An Oklahoma County judge struck down a state law that would have required women seeking abortions to have ultrasounds before the procedure. Oklahoma County District Judge Bryan Dixon declared the law unconstitutional in a summary judgment. The law would have required doctors or their technicians to show pregnant women ultrasound images of their fetuses before abortions were performed. The Legislature passed the law in April 2010, overriding a veto by then-Gov. Brad Henry. The Center for Reproductive Rights, a New York abortion rights group, appealed.

2014

Woman arrested for

three 1992 murders

Creek County authorities arrested a woman in the deaths of three people who were missing from 1992 until their bodies were found on land near Jennings, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Beverly Noe, 60, of Bristow was charged with three counts of first-degree murder in the homicides of Wendy Camp, 23; her 6-year-old daughter, Cynthia Britto; and Camps sister-in-law, Lisa Kregear, 22. The remains of the three victims were found in April 2013. In 2015, Noe, 67, pleaded no contest to accessory to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Joe Worley 918-581-8373
It's Divali time so at TV6 over the next few days, we bring you some of the interesting aspe
UD's Elizabeth Kirk, seen next to host Pat Sajak, on "Wheel of Fortune."

UD's Elizabeth Kirk (back row, second from left) will appear on ABC's "Wheel of Fortune" on Thursday, March 31.

(Editor's note: UD's Elizabeth Kirk finished second on the March 31 Wheel of Fortune College Week show, with $8,850.)

11:40 a.m., March 28, 2016--Elizabeth Kirk, a senior in the University of Delawares Honors Program who is studying psychology and communication, will appear on ABCs Wheel of Fortune on Thursday, March 31.

The show, part of the Wheel of Fortunes College Week programming, was taped recently at Sony Studies in Culver City, California. Locally, it will air at 7:30 p.m. on WPVI-TV, Channel 6, in Philadelphia.

Kirk said Wheel of Fortune, which she enjoyed watching with her father, has always been one of her favorite game shows.

I was so excited to be part of College Week. It was a dream come true, Kirk said. My family and some close friends know that I was on the show, and they have been really exited and supportive. My boyfriend even flew out to Los Angeles with me to watch me on the show.

Two summers ago, Kirk decided on a whim to apply, and even sent in a video to the shows website. One year later she was invited to New York City for an audition.

I was actually in the UD Library studying for finals when I got the email, Kirk said. I was so excited that I jumped up and screamed. It was so embarrassing, because it was a quiet section and everyone looked at me like I was crazy.

Having auditioned for the show in June 2015, Kirk received a phone call in February of this year asking her to come to Los Angeles on Feb. 19 for a taping of college week.

Kirk said she has enjoyed being a member of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority and the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), and plans to work in Kohls management program, hoping eventually to work in the field of human resources.

I have absolutely loved my time here at UD, Kirk said. I am so glad I had the opportunity to represent such an amazing university.

Article by Jerry Rhodes
11:38 a.m., March 28, 2016--St. George's University and the University of Delaware have announced a new partnership that will enable qualified UD undergraduates to pursue advanced medical and veterinary degrees at St. George's, which is in Grenada.

"We are thrilled to welcome the University of Delaware into our growing University community," said Dr. G. Richard Olds, president and CEO of St. George's University. "By further expanding our network of partners, we are continuing to provide a pathway for students from around the world to pursue medical and veterinary education."

Upon receiving their bachelor's degree, qualified students from UD will have the option to pursue a degree in medicine or veterinary medicine at St. George's University.

Students in St. George's School of Medicine will complete their first two years of medical study in Grenada and their final two years in U.S. or U.K. clerkship programs. Those in the veterinary school will spend three years in Grenada before completing their final clinical year elsewhere.

UD joins a diverse group of over 15 colleges and universities in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada that have partnered with St. George's University, which also has similar partnerships with Mahidol University International College in Thailand and schools in Bermuda, Grenada, Hong Kong, Guyana and Uganda.

"This agreement further enhances our relationship with St. George's University and will provide our students with the opportunity to continue their journey to becoming professionals in the fields of medicine and veterinary medicine," said Lynn Okagaki, UD deputy provost for academic affairs.

"We are pleased today to announce that the University of Delaware has entered into an agreement with St. George's University in the West Indies that will expand opportunities for qualified UD students to pursue a career in medicine or veterinary medicine," said David Barlow, director of the Center for Premedical and Health Profession Studies. "It is designed for students who are certain that they want to become physicians or veterinarians and who desire a program of study that blends the scientific aspect of these professions in a highly diverse international setting."

About St. George's University

St. George's University is a center of international education, drawing students and faculty from 140 countries to the island of Grenada, in the West Indies, to its programs in medicine, veterinary medicine, public health, science, and business.

St. George's is affiliated with educational institutions worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Ireland. The university's over 15,000 graduates include physicians, veterinarians, scientists, and public health and business professionals across the world.

The university programs are accredited and approved by many governing authorities and repeatedly recognized as the best in the region.

Article by Jerry Rhodes

Photo by Doug Baker
Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it.





I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends.





More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it.





The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity.





About me:

I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS.

Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line).

Age: 42

Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed.





I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it).
Donald Tump, the Republican candidate for the US presidency, following previous controversial statements on the Ukrainian issue, in an interview with the New York Times explained his view on the current situation in Ukraine.

The full text of the interview with the billionaire the newspaper published on Sunday, own Ukrinform correspondent reports.

And one of the things that I hated seeing is Ukraine. Now Im all for Ukraine, I have friends that live in Ukraine, but it didnt seem to me, when the Ukrainian problem arose, you know, not so long ago, and we were, and Russia was getting very confrontational, it didnt seem to me like anyone else cared other than us, Trump said.

On this issue, Trump said that the situation with Ukraine concerned the United States the least, as the United States geographically is the farthest away. But he stressed that it seemed that even Ukraines neighboring countries didnt seem to be talking about it.

Look at Germany, you look at other countries, and they didnt seem to be very much involved. It was all about us and Russia, Trump said.

According to Trump, an end should be brought to this: In fact, with the gas, you know, they wanted the oil, they wanted other things from Russia, and they were just keeping their mouths shut. And here the United States was going out and, you know, being fairly tough on the Ukraine.

Were fighting for the Ukraine, but nobody else is fighting for the Ukraine other than the Ukraine itself, of course, and I said, it doesnt seem fair and it doesnt seem logical, the U.S. presidential candidate summarized.

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Over 250 companies from Ukraine and the Netherlands have registered to participate in the Netherlands-Ukraine Business Forum, which will take place in the Netherlands on March 30.

This is reported by the press service of the Dutch government, own Ukrinform correspondent reports

The number of participants shows that from the side of business there is great interest in Ukraine. Recently during the business mission Ive become convinced there are opportunities for business, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation of the Netherlands, Lilianne Ploumen said.

Ploumen noted that the Dutch government is in favor of the EU-Ukraine association agreement.

This agreement will give Ukrainians more opportunities for prosperity, strengthening of democracy and fight against corruption. Thats why the government is calling on everybody to come and vote, she said.

As a reminder, the Netherlands-Ukraine Business Forum will take place in the Netherlands on March 30. According to the program, Ukrainian Finance Minister Natalie Jaresko, Agrarian Policy and Food Minister Oleksiy Pavlenko, Ukrainian and Dutch officials and businessmen will take part in the forum.

On April 6, 2016, a consultative referendum on the association agreement between Ukraine and the EU will be held in the Netherlands.

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The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has banned Russian journalist Otar Kushanashvili from entering Ukraine for three years.

"The Security Service has received the numerous complaints from the citizens, MPs and activists about the need to ban the Russian journalist from entering our country. You have heard all [his] statements about Ukraine, which harm the national interests. So, it was decided to ban him from entering Ukraine for three years," Spokesperson for the Security Service of Ukraine Olena Hitlianska said on the air of 112 Ukraine TV channel.

March 25, it became known that Russian journalist Otar Kushanashvili would become the new radio presenter at the Radio Vesti in Kyiv.

Giving an interview to Russian LifeNews TV channel, Kushanashvili explained that he went to work to Kyiv to earn money for his family but was not going to distance himself from the homeland. He also added that he supported the Kremlin in the war between Russia and Ukraine and criticized the Ukrainian Government.

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UTSA to host Texas FreshAIR big data & data analytics conference March 30-31 conference will discuss breakthroughs in cybersecurity and big data technologies Share this Story

(March 28, 2016) -- On March 30-31, UTSA will host the Texas FreshAIR big data and data analytics conference, an academic industry roundtable organized by the UT System and co-sponsored by the UT Health Science Center. The conference will be held in the H-E-B University Center on the UTSA Main Campus.

>> View the conference agenda.

The Texas FreshAIR series brings together thought leaders from across the UT System to forge new academia-industry partnerships. UTSA is home of the nations top cybersecurity program, according to a study conducted by the Ponemon Institute for Hewlett-Packard. The upcoming conference focuses on data sciences and analytics and will include sessions exploring:

Business Analytics

Cloud and Cybersecurity

Machine Learning and Data Visualization

Health Care and Military

Omics and Personalized Medicine

UTSAs top-tier researchers are among the presenters at the two-day conference. UTSA speakers include:

Ravi Sandhu , UTSA College of Sciences, Secure Cloud Computing

, UTSA College of Sciences, Secure Cloud Computing Nicole Beebe , UTSA College of Business, Digital Forensics in and out of the Cloud: Challenges and Opportunities

, UTSA College of Business, Digital Forensics in and out of the Cloud: Challenges and Opportunities Max Kilger , UTSA College of Business, Be Careful What You Wish For: The Importance of Heuristics and Measurement in Big Data

, UTSA College of Business, Be Careful What You Wish For: The Importance of Heuristics and Measurement in Big Data John Quarles , UTSA College of Sciences, Location Aware Electronic Medical Record System

, UTSA College of Sciences, Location Aware Electronic Medical Record System Greg White , UTSA College of Sciences, Knowledge Discovery in Large Amounts of Cyber Security Information Sharing

, UTSA College of Sciences, Knowledge Discovery in Large Amounts of Cyber Security Information Sharing Suman Basuroy , UTSA College of Business, Measuring the Positive Halo and Negative Cannibalization Effects of New Products Introductions in High-Tech Markets

, UTSA College of Business, Measuring the Positive Halo and Negative Cannibalization Effects of New Products Introductions in High-Tech Markets Yusheng Feng , UTSA College of Engineering, Medical Data Analytics and Visualization at UT San Antonio and UTHSC San Antonio

, UTSA College of Engineering, Medical Data Analytics and Visualization at UT San Antonio and UTHSC San Antonio Mikhail Gubanov , UTSA College of Sciences, A Large-scale Linear-Relational Data Management System for Machine Learning Workloads

, UTSA College of Sciences, A Large-scale Linear-Relational Data Management System for Machine Learning Workloads Yufei Huang, UTSA College of Engineering, Predicting Human Cognitive Behaviors by Deep Learning

Additionally, UTSA President Ricardo Romo will deliver opening remarks on March 30. UTSA Vice President for Research Mauli Agrawal will provide closing remarks on March 31.

------------------------------

To learn more about Texas FreshAIR, visit www.texasfreshair.org.

Connect online at Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and UTSA Today.
UW to Host Symposium on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

People interested in learning about the opportunities and constraints concerning the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), or drones, are invited to a symposium at the University of Wyoming.

The Wyoming UAV Symposium is scheduled May 17-18 at the Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center, hosted by UWs Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center (WyGISC).

The development of unmanned aerial systems has advanced significantly in just the past few years, says Jeff Hamerlinck, WyGISC director. Great potential exists for UAV applications in Wyoming, not only in research and education, but also for natural resource development and management, precision agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, and law enforcement and emergency response.

The symposiums goal is to raise awareness and educate attendees on a wide range of UAV topics, including platform and sensor technology, data processing techniques and regulatory considerations for legal drone use.

The symposium begins Tuesday, May 17, with opening remarks and a keynote address by Bruce Quirk, Unmanned Aircraft Systems liaison for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in Reston, Va. He has more than 30 years of experience using satellite and aerial remote sensing to monitor natural resources in the United States and around the world. The USGS is testing and evaluating UAV systems to see how the technology supports the mission of the agency and the Department of the Interior.

The symposium will include policy overviews, scientific talks and issue-specific panel discussions involving experts from academia, government and the private sector. The symposium will conclude the afternoon of Wednesday, May 18, with a series of technology demonstrations scheduled for the UW Indoor Practice Facility and UW intramural fields.

For more information or to register, go to www.uwyo.edu/ser/conferences/upcoming-events/uav-symposium.html.

Additional information is available by emailing Hamerlinck at jeff.hamerlinck@uwyo.edu or Ramesh Sivanpillai at sivan@uwyo.edu.
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It may come as no great surprise to most that Roman Reigns has a rather tumultuous relationship with the WWE Universe and once Reigns entrance theme hits seven times out of 10 he will be booed by the crowd. A prime example of this would the 2015 Royal Rumble in Philadelphia when the crowd destroyed Reigns throughout the night.

Why has the WWE Universe turned on him?

It appears that the WWE universe has turned on Roman Reigns for no apparent reason and any WWE fan will tell you they can cheer for who they want and this is true, but there doesn't seem to be any real reason for fans to hate someone they once cheered in the Shield so much.

Speaking with with The Kingston Whig-Standard to promote WrestleMania 32 Reigns spoke about his relationship with the fans and he too could not pick one reason for the constant booing from the fans.

Fans haven't taken to Reigns' main event push. Photo- www.cultofwhatever.com

Reigns had this to say on the reaction he gets, Its a tough one because there is no one answer. There is no one reason why someone would want to boo me. Maybe they dont like what I wear, how I sound, maybe I did something to offend them. The one thing that people who boo Reigns seem to all agree on is the fact that Roman Reigns is slowly becoming the next John Cena, being pushed heavily when fans don't seem to want it.

Roman Reigns won't change for anyone

This again is rather unjustifiable as Reigns is his own person, and he went onto say in the interview For me, I can only continue to stay within myself and worry about the things I can control and the things I can control are, Am I healthy?; Am I showing up to where I need to be on time?; Am I here to perform and do my job?. Roman Reigns shows up every week to put on a show for the WWE Universe in attendance regardless of the fans reactions.

Reigns knows he has fans

Reigns knows that there is a section of the WWE Universe that support him that will always support him whether nor not they are in attendance as Reigns told the interviewer As long as I know the supporters are still by me, even if theyre not in the arena, I hear them on social media and I know theyre out there. If youre riding with me, its going to be a good ride. If youre going against me, were sorry for whats going to happen next.

So in the end all of this negativity is like water off a ducks back for Reigns who now looks swiftly ahead to his match with Triple H during WrestleMania 32, in which he hopes to become the WWE World Heavyweight Champion and he will celebrate with his fans regardless.
Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal-led ArcelorMittal has agreed to offload three of its US steel operations to Black Diamond Capital Management. However, the value of deal has not been disclosed by the steel giant. Nonetheless, the transaction is expected to close in April this year.

The sale deal includes ArcelorMittal's operations at LaPlace in Louisiana, Harriman in Tennessee and El Paso in Texas. The LaPlace steel facility and rolling mill in Harriman produce long steel products including billets, angles, flats, channels and beams.

The Wall Street Journal reports that the deal may be completed in April 2016. ArcelorMittal has decided to offload non-core assets as part of its latest strategy. Vinton facility in El Paso produces rebar and grinding media and long steel products. ArcelorMittal is suffering from competition from China.



Jim Baske, Executive Vice-President and Chief Executive of ArcelorMittal North America, said "The sale of LaPlace and Vinton is consistent with ArcelorMittal's stated strategy of selective divestment of noncore assets."

Recently, ArcelorMittal has raised $3 billion funds from rights issue. The steel giant will use these proceeds to strengthen its balance sheet and reduce debt burden. The global oversupply situation in the steel sector is hammering down prices and keeping more pressure on ArcelorMittal, according to Seeking Alpha.

Oversupply situation in China is pulling down prices. ArcelorMittal's net sales declined to $63.58 billion in 2015 from $72.28 billion in 2014 while its net loss was at $7.9 billion in 2015. Most of the net loss was due to $4.8 billion written down on iron ore mining business. About $1.3 billion charge on inventory has further added to net loss.



Luxembourg-based ArcelorMittal is expected to reduce its debt of $15.7 billion recorded last quarter of 2015. In a regulatory filing, the world's largest steel manufacturer informed that it has made a definitive transaction agreement with Black Diamond Capital Management on selling LaPlace and Vinton Long Carbon facilities in the US.

FirstPost further adds that the terms of the transaction are confidential and would not disclosed by both the companies. However, ArcelotMittal has also inked another pact with Black Diamond on a transaction services agreement to ensure smooth transition period. The transaction services agreement envisages no business disruption during the transition period.



Jim Baske has thanked the employees of LaPlace and Vinton for their commitment and efforts over the years. He wished them a successful future under new ownership. Black Diamond manages more than $8 billion in assets in control distressed/ private equity, hedge fund and CLOs and other structured vehicles.
China is setting its target of becoming a global superpower in semiconductor segment. The latest $24-billion semiconductor project by State-run XMC is expected to strengthen China's position in the global chip manufacturing industry. tHE Chinese government is keen on making domestic semiconductor industry a major global hub for chip manufacturing activity.

In a partnership with a US company, the $24-bln semiconductor facility will manufacture memory chips in different electronic devices. XMC will build its own semiconductor manufacturing facility by setting up two chip manufacturing plants. In addition to these, XMC will set up a dedicated facility for supply chain capabilities. Chinese government is encouraging semiconductor segment to compete with global majors.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Chinese contract chip maker XMC will set up $24-billion chip manufacturing facility in association with a US company. Its ground-breaking ceremony is scheduled on Monday. The Chinese government-run XMC will manufacture memory chips for several electronic devices.



The $24-bln semiconductor manufacturing facility will commence production in three stages. In the first stage, flash memory chips will be manufactured. Another plant will make chips and the third phase will have devoted facilities for suppliers.

Encouraged by Chinese government support, several domestic companies are coming forward to set up their own chip making units. Some companies are developing software products for mobile devices. Chinese tech majors account for about 80 percent of domestic smartphone market.

China Economic Review further adds that the project would be funded through a national semiconductor fund. The provincial government of Hubei is also investing in the $14-bln project in three phases.



Industry analysts feel that how big the move may be, China can still grab a small slice of global semiconductor segment. But, it'll be a major step forward for the world's second largest economy. China's economy is undergoing a major transition and moving towards high-value industries.

The Chinese government in 2015 has set a target of achieving 70 percent of requirement for semiconductor domestically. It is encouraging domestic semiconductor companies to make chips locally meeting the domestic demand, as reported by Fortune.



The major chip manufacturing project is a first-of-its-kind in China. Now, all eyes are on the country whether it can catch up with global chip majors such as South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, US and Japan.

China's largest smartphone vendor Huawei Technologies Co Ltd is developing its own mobile processors and operating systems. Huawei has already made a home-made processor called Kirin 950, which is fitted into latest device Mate 8 smartphone available at Yuan 3,000. The latest phone from Huawei is pitched against iPhone 6S and Samsung Electronics Co's Galaxy series.
CK Hutchison Holdings promised to fulfill the coverage requirement in the UK if the acquisition of O2 is approved. Office of Communication (Ofcom) of UK has set the target of 90% coverage for mobile operators by 2017.

Three and O2 are the second and fourth largest mobile network operator in UK respectively. If Three takes over O2, they will become the biggest operator with more than 31 million customers. The merger will also reduce the number of mobile network provider in UK into three operators, which currently consist of EE, Vodafone, Three and O2.

European Commission are currently investigating the 10.5 billion ($14.8 billion) merger over competition issue. The commission have concern due to the fact that O2 has a network sharing agreement with Vodafone, and merger with Three will affect the competition. Office of Communication Chief Executive Sharon White has also stated her stance against the deal.

Meanwhile, CK Hutchison and Three have made several promises to alleviate concern from both European and UK regulatory boards. Canning Fok, managing director of CK Hutchinson, the parent company of Three pledged to invest 5 billion ($7 billion) in Britain's mobile industry and freeze prices until 2021. While Three Chief Executive Officer David Dyson said that Three will sell some of its mobile spectrum up to 30%, and the merger will surpass the Ofcomm requirement for UK's operator mobile coverage.

As This is Money reported, CEO Dyson said, "Coverage of 99% is a very significant number. It's in excess of what O2 has today. Putting the two companies together will definitely surpass the target of 90% geographic coverage the Government has set."

Ofcom has set a geographical coverage for UK mobile operator to cover 90% of area by 2017. Three insisted that giving a green light to the merger will surpass the coverage requirement. Meanwhile European Commission still discuss the merger and will announce the decision on May 19.

In an attempt to win approval CK Hutchison said on March 18 to keep the Three and O2 operation separated. In a full-year result presentation, the company said in a statement as quoted by Total Telecom, "Should such [a] new investment proceed, the group will consider implementing a revised business structure that would maintain the continuity and separation of the 3UK and O2 UK businesses."

In the meantime, European Commission is overseeing the case in Austria four years ago, which was almost identical to O2 and Three merger. The Telegraph reported the merger between Three and Orange in Austria prompted a 20% increase in mobile phone bills in the two years following the deal.

CK Hutchison and Three has promised to freeze the price until 2012 and separate the operation to ease the regulator's objection. As European Commission is targeted to announce the decision whether to approve the merger on May 19.
Britain's Opposition Labour Party accused the government to cut budget for border force by 6% in each of the next two years. The shadow home secretary Andy Burnham has repeated his call to Theresa May to reveal the budget plan.

The opposition asked government to reveal its budget plan after an insiders told to anticipate a 6% border force budget reduction for two years, in total of 88 million ($124 million). Shadow home secretary Andy Burnham told BBC that there "couldn't be a more serious time" to be strengthening borders, after the Brussels attacks.

"This is the worst possible time to be cutting U.K. border security," Burnham said as quoted by Bloomberg.

Following the islamic state terorrist attack on March 22 in Brussel, the UK conservative government was criticized for spending cuts. Mr, Burnham said that the government, in particular home secretary is "going to great lengths" to conceal further cuts planned for the agency. He said it is highly unusual the ministers have not released the Border Force budget, while the start of the new financial year only a few days away.

He said this should be challenged, and Mr. Burnham has already went letter to his counterpart in the government Theresa May to disclose her budget plan. He said that making a budget savings in this time would be a very serious mistake.

"The public has a right to know about the Government's plans for the UK border and that is why I call on them to publish these figures without delay and to drop these damaging cuts," Mr. Burnham said as quoted by The Guardian. "This decision is yet another consequence of George Osborne's botched spending review and budget. It has nothing to do with the EU referendum and everything to do with a government with its priorities wrong and whose austerity drive is putting our country at risk."

The Home Office responded saying that all necessary measures would be taken to protect the UK's border. Nevertheless, the ministry said the border force budget was still to be finalised. It also pointed out the 41 million ($58 million) investment to add more officers to crack down border crime, and other millions budget spent to improve security at French ports.

A spokeperson at Home Office said, "Over the next four years, we will increase the counter-terrorism budget by 500m and invest 130m in state-of-the-art technology at the border. All necessary funding and investment will be in place by the start of the next financial year."

Britain's opposition accused the government plan to cut budget for border force, as . Shadow Home Secretary urged government to disclose budget plan. While the government responded by promise to take all necessary measures to protect UK's border.
Japanese food producer Nissin Foods is aiming to acquire British food manufacturer Premier Foods PLC in a takeover deal. Nissin already made its first move by buying a 17.3 percent stake in the company for 63 pence per share last week, or 90 million pounds ($127 million) in total.

The takeover approach deal made Nissin the largest stakeholder in the British company. The percentage of stake owned by the Japanese company, more than 15 percent, also gave it the right to appoint a non-executive director to be on Premier Foods' board.

Premier Foods had recently rejected the similar approach from U.S. spices and herbs manufacturer McCormick & Company. The American company offered 60 pence a share in the company, totaling 1.5 billion pounds ($2.1 billion). However, the offer was rejected, followed by disappointments from Premier Foods' shareholder.

Following the rejection of the offer made by McCormick, Premier Foods made a statement saying that it had undervalued the company's growth prospects and capabilities. Some shareholders questioned the company's objectivity with the decision and have been urging Premier Foods' board to have talks with McCormick, as reported by Reuters.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the company said it would consider and evaluate any improved takeover proposal made by McCormick, or by any other party. The company stated, "Should McCormick, or any other bona fide potential offeror, come forward with an improved proposal that better reflects the board's assessment of the company's underlying value over the longer term, the board would give such offer careful consideration and evaluate its merits."

On the other hand, Nissin is considered as a strategic investor by Premier Foods' board. As the company's chairman David Beever put it in a statement, "By gaining a strategic investor who understands and supports our growth ambitions, we have an exceptional opportunity to deliver shareholder value." Even though Nissin is now the Premier Foods' largest stakeholder, the company must agree not to make a takeover bid for Premier for at least six months, as noted by Hungry Forever.

Premier Foods was established in 1975, and it owns many popular brands including Mr Kipling, Ambrosia, Homepride, and Bisto. Nissin Foods was popular in Japan and worldwide for its noodle products. The company was established in 1948 and has produced various products of noodles.

Nissin is entering the takeover bidding battle to acquire Premier Foods, in competition with American company McCormick which has the same aim. After buying 17.3 percent of the company's stake, Nissin is now Premier Foods' largest stakeholder and is approaching to takeover the whole company.
Malaysia's palm oil production will decline from what has been forecast as the continuing effects of El Nino control the output of the world's second largest producer of palm oil. Production is expected to drop by 2 million metric tons in the year through September compared with a 1.5 million ton fall that was predicted earlier this month.

Dorab Mistry of Godrej International Ltd. said that the production of palm oil in Malaysia is expected to drop more than forecast due to the sauntering effects of El Nino that restrain the palm oil output. He said that Malaysian palm oil production is going to be "well below" 19 million tons this year, and will total 31 million tons in top grower Indonesia, Bloomberg reports.

"This El Nino is doing what all big El Ninos do - lowering production and boosting prices," said Mistry, whose traded palm oil for more than three decades. "I shall not be surprised if the deficit for first half 2016 as compared with first half 2015 will be in excess of 1 million tons."

On Friday, the drop in production which is the sharpest in seven years might bring stronger rebound to grade palm oil prices that have risen to 5% in the last two weeks to a two-year high of 2,726 ringgit a ton. During the first half of 2016, there is already an expectation of million tons drop on the Malaysian output.

The first two months of the year's production runs more than 100,000 tons which is less than the accompanying period a year ago while the deficit is expected to expand to at least 350,000 tons by the end of March, based on The Star Online report.

"From July we can expect some recovery in Malaysia. However, we have had severe dry weather in Sabah since the second half of January and that is likely to continue until the first half of April. Sabah palm oil production will suffer an extended impact around September 2016," said Mistry.

Palm oil which has many uses aside from cooking and as a biofuel, swell to a two-year high this month as the most powerful El Nino in two decades prohibited growth of fresh fruit bunches in Malaysia and Indonesia that make up nearly 86% of the world's supply, the Bangkok Post reports.

In February, Malaysian palm stockpiles plunge to an eight-month low of 2.17 million tons says the Malaysian Palm Oil Board. Since February 2007, palm oil production dropped to the lowest level.
Retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus intervene on Brexit issue. He insisted that without UK, European Union will have a significant reduce in strength and resilience against terrorist attack. He urged voters to choose to stay in the EU bloc.

In his exclusive article for The Telegraph, the former head of CIA said, "Brexit would deal a significant blow to the EU's strength and resilience at exactly the moment when the West is under attack from multiple directions." He also said that Brexit will lessen UK's influence in Europe.

"A Brexit would also reduce considerably Great Britain's ability to influence and guide the future of Europe, still the world's largest economic bloc; it would undoubtedly reduce British influence on the world stage, as well."

Mr. Petraeus said he understand the frustration of many of his British friends with the EU. He also understand the appeal to retreat and preserve sovereignity in an isolation. It is because that is exactly the same temptation which U.S. often feel, to preserve sovereignty and safeguard destiny by pulling back from the world.

Nevertheless, he pointed the geographic location of the United States with oceans in either coasts are similar to English Channel in a lesser degree. Therefore EU must stand with EU, because security and prosperity of both UK and United States cannot be separated from the political and economic conditions on the continent.

"Given the dangers and challenges that threaten us around the world, this is a moment when the west and its institutions, including the EU, need to be drawing together  not pulling apart. At least from a national security standpoint, none of the problems the US and UK face will become easier to solve if the UK is out of the EU; on the contrary, I fear that a 'Brexit' would only make our world even more dangerous and difficult to manage," Petraeus further added.

Meanwhile, many business people have shown their support of Brexit. Irish Examiner reported that 250 business leaders gave support for Brexit, forming the Vote Leave group. One of them is a former HSBC Holdings chief executive Michael Geoghegan. The group will also have its business advisory council to be led by former director general of British Chambers of Commmerce John Longworth.

However, David Petraeus' article has made some of the business leaders to refrain from supporting the Brexit. The Guardian reported two leading figures said that their names had been wrongly included in the list. They are David Ross, the co-founder of Carphone Warehouse, and John Caudwell, the co-founder of Phones 4u.

Former head of CIA and retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus has intervened on Brexit issue. He compelled voters to choose to stay in European Union for the sake of security and war on terror in the European continent.
Al Jazeera Media Network announced a 500 job cuts as the Qatar-based media company aims to optimize the workforce. The job reduction will affect the company globally, but the majority of job cuts will be in its base in Qatar.

On an official statement, Al Jazeera mentioned the change as a part of an optimization plan that follows the ongoing transformation of the media landscape. "Over the past few months, we have carefully evaluated every option available to the Network in order to ensure that we are best positioned in the light of the large scale changes underway in the global media landscape," said the company's acting director general Mostefa Souag.

Mr. Souag then stated that the review has brought them to embark on a workforce optimization initiative. He noted how the job cuts will allow the company evolve its business operation and maintain its "high quality, independent and hard-hitting journalism around the world". The decision will affect 500 jobs, which is more than 10 percent of the company's global workforce of 4,500.

Al Jazeera was established in 1996 as the Arab world's first independent news channel. Since then, the company has added new channels and services to more than 70 bureaus around the world. The media network also has an English-language channel launched in 2006. However, the company has previously terminated its American cable news channel after consistently low ratings, as reported by The Guardian.

The pressure faced by Al Jazeera could be attributed to the slump in oil prices which has been valued less than $40 a barrel from more than $100 in 2014, as reported by ABC News. Qatar, as a major energy producer, is facing difficulties in financial, and the authorities have hiked subsidized gasoline prices by at least 30 percent earlier this year. The country expects to run a budget deficit of more than $12 billion this year, even with cutbacks in government spending.

As an impact of the slumping crude oil prices, several Qatari companies have cut jobs in recent months. Especially in the energy sector and state-funded institutions, many employees in Qatar have lost their jobs. Al Jazeera is partly state-funded and partly funded by the House of Thani, the ruling family of Qatar.

Al Jazeera has announced its optimization plan that would result in 500 job cuts around its bureaus worldwide. Many Qatari companies are facing difficulties amid the drop in crude oil prices as the country's main sector. The reduction will affect 10 percent of Al Jazeera Media Network's global workforce.
More than 20 Indian firms have been participating in the ongoing summit of 'India- China Business & Investment Forum' in Wuxi City of China. The summit aims to introduce latest investment opportunities to their Chinese counterparts under 'Make in India' campaign. The week long event also includes India Culture Week, scheduled to get kicked off on Sunday.

The participating Indian firms intend to introduce the latest investment opportunities in India across the sectors like renewable energies, infrastructure development and urban transportation. The Chinese companies have been urged to investment in these sectors under the 'Make in India' program, reports The Economic Times.

A cultural program performed by a Bhangra/ Gidda troupe from India has also been organized under the sponsorship of Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The cultural programs have been scheduled to take place at the South China University Campus. A series of B2B meetings has also been planned for the participant Indian companies with their Chinese counterparts, reports The Times of India quoting Prakash Gupta, Consul General of India in Shanghai.
Royal Dutch Shell, a UK-based oil and gas firm, is reportedly seeking buyers for its North Sea assets following the merger with BG. The oil company intends to raise $30 billion by selling its assets globally in order to balance the BG merger expenses, which it completed in February.

Shell, which has roughly 2,500 workers in the North Sea oil fields, said it expects the global sales to occur between 2016 and 2018, with less than $10 billion of sales anticipated to happen in 2016. Financial Times quoted a spokesperson from Shell, who said, "A review of all assets, including those in the North Sea, is under way as part of our commitment to the $30bn asset sale." Ben van Beurden expects his industrial rivals and private equity firms to be the potential buyers of North Sea assets.

Shell has appointed advisors to aid the company to dispose of its North Sea oil fields. The company's decision comes amid the falling oil prices that have impacted its operations in the Northern Sea region. With regard to this move, Lazard, Morgan Stanley and Bank of America Merrill Lynch have held negotiations with potential buyers like Neptune Oil and Gas, an investment company founded by Sam Laidlaw, a previous chief of Centrica. According to This is MONEY, oil firms have been pulling back their capitals in the North Sea, citing poor oil price.

A spokesman for Neptune said that the fund is considering Shell's assets along with other oil assets as part of its business strategy to invest in the gloomy North Sea assets. In 2015, the company's divestments totalled $5.5 billion, bringing its total divestments value to $20 billion for the period between 2014 and 2015. Moreover, the North Sea assets disposal will trim 10,000 jobs across the company's global business. The company plans to axe roughly 2,800 workforces in the following few months.

Meanwhile, Brent crude LCOc1 increased 25 cents to $40.69 a barrel on the commodity market. Prices of oil rebound nearly 50% from a record low hit in January. The price rally was helped by major producers' move to freeze their production at January flat. Reuters quoted Victor Shum, a senior energy expert at IHS, who said that the April 17 summit will create a pressure on OPEC members to decide on more profitable factors, which otherwise would lead to market dissipation.

In addition, declining oil production in the US and robust demand for US gasoline helped oil prices to recover from its historical low in January. Last week, Brent crude dropped 76 cents, marking the first drop since five weeks.

The wavering oil prices have forced many oil firms like Shell to shed their North Sea assets. The oil firms are struggling to boost their balance sheet amid the fluctuating oil prices.
European authorities are pushing the issue of encryption in the wake of the Brussel attack last week. That would affect tech companies especially American tech giants as they would be required to hand over encrypted information to law enforcements.

According to The New York Times, French lawmakers are expected to debate proposals to toughen laws regarding data encryption this week. They are pushing a policy that would give intelligence services greater power to get access to personal information from encrypted data. Refusing to give encrypted information could lead to prison sentences of up to five years for tech executives as well as fine of around $390,000 for the company.

The similar move could also be seen in Britain, where lawmakers are finishing legislation that could force tech companies to provide assistance in bypassing encryption protections if required by national security. Under that legislation, companies would be legally demanded to hack their users' smartphones and computers.

However, not all European countries stand on the same side regarding the matter of data encryption. As for now, Germany and the Netherlands are dismissing the similar encryption laws that could force tech companies to hand over personal information that could enshrine privacy and violate other rights as the freedom of expression, as said by those who oppose the idea.

In the U.S., tech giant Apple is still in a dispute with the government over the similar issue. The company was demanded by the court to create a backdoor to bypass its own encryption in order to unlock an iPhone owned by one of the San Bernardino attack shooters. Apple has since been fighting back, declining the order, arguing that by doing so the company would put its other users into a greater danger.

Apple has also made a move as the company try to fight back regarding the encryption data issue. The Times of India reported that Apple's CEO Tim Cook has met with a string of European politicians to lobby in favor of the encryption technology. Tim Cook has met with France's prime minister Manuel Valls and Britain's home secretary Theresa May.

Also in the U.S., Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton has also addressed the Brussels attack as the "latest brutal reminder" that more must be done to defeat such threats. As reported by Reuters, she called for closer cooperation between the U.S. and European countries to address the issue.

European countries are now evaluating the encryption technology issues in regard to national security, in the wake of the Paris and the more recent Brussels attack. France and Britain are among countries that are pushing new laws to give authorities for the officials to get encrypted data from tech companies.
SHARE CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Audrey cares for her calf that was born Saturday night in the Santa Barbara Zoo.

By Staff Reports

That's one big baby boy!

A 6-foot-6 male Masai giraffe weighing 191 pounds was born at the Santa Barbara Zoo on Saturday.

The calf, still unnamed, and his mom, Audrey, are currently bonding, off view to the public, in the Giraffe Barn.

Until they conducted a medical examination Monday, zoo officials didn't know the calf's sex, height or weight. Figures show the healthy calf is above normal in size: most male calves weigh in at 125 to 150 pounds and are about 6 feet tall.

Audrey gave birth at 9:28 p.m. Saturday after approximately five hours of labor. Giraffes have a 14.5-month gestation period.

The zoo's giraffe herd is part of the population of 120 Masai giraffes that live at 28 North American zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Michael, the calf's sire, is considered the most genetically valuable male Masai giraffe in captivity because he has few relatives in zoos other than his five offspring born in Santa Barbara.

"Michael's genetics greatly help the diversity of the North American Masai population," said Sheri Horiszny, director of animal care. "Every Masai giraffe born here is critical to keeping the gene pool robust."

This is the fourth birth for Audrey at the zoo. Her last calf, Buttercup, was born in November 2014. The zoo's other female giraffe, Betty Lou, is in her third pregnancy and is expected to give birth in July.

There are an estimated 37,000 Masai giraffes in Kenya and Tanzania, where they are at risk due to poaching and habitat loss and degradation. The Masai is the largest subspecies of giraffe, growing up to 17 feet tall and weighing 2,700 pounds.

The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $17 for adults, $13 for seniors 65 and older and $10 for children 2-12. Children under 2 are free. Parking is $7. For more information visit www.sbzoo.org.
SHARE

By From Staff Reports

Eight people were arrested in Ventura late Thursday after a dispute between neighbors led to an assault that injured two people, police said.

The incident occurred about 11:45 p.m. in the 100 block of De Anza Drive in Ventura. It began when a 52-year-old man asked a group of neighbors to turn down their music, Ventura police spokesman Sgt. Jack Richards said.

During an ensuing dispute, one member of the group pushed his way into another neighbors home and threatened him with a gun, Richards said. That neighbor was not injured.

When the 52-year-old man went outside again, the group attacked him, kicking and punching him while he was on the ground, police said. He was treated at Community Memorial Hospital in Ventura for broken ribs and a punctured lung, police said.

A 28-year-old woman also was beaten while on the ground, police said. She suffered bruises and swelling to her face.

Police arrested six adults and two juveniles suspected of involvement in the incident.

Luis Miranda, 21, of Ventura; Michael Borrello, 22, of Carpinteria; Robert Miranda, 18, of Ventura; Luis Rivera, 22, of Oxnard; Brandi Zamora, 22, of Oxnard; Monica Zarate, 36, of Ventura; a 14-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of assault and conspiracy, police said.

Borrello, suspected of breaking into the neighbors home, was also arrested on suspicion of burglary, police said, while Rivera faces a parole violation.

All the adults were booked into Ventura County Jail, where they remained Friday. The juveniles were cited and released.
SHARE Michael Brody gets an aisle seat at jury duty orientation at the Hall of Justice in Ventura. Brody traveled from his home in Thousand Oaks to fulfill his civic duty.

By Cynthia Overweg

- Under the one day, one trial policy implemented statewide in 1999, summoned jurors are obligated to appear at the courthouse for one day. If not selected for a jury, the citizens obligation is satisfied for at least 12 months.

- You must be a U.S. citizen and be at least 18 to serve on a jury.

- Jurors are paid $15 a day, except for the first day. Mileage is reimbursed at 34 cents per mile, one way. The fees are set by the state Legislature.

- Unless a postponement or excuse is arranged with the court, failure to appear for a jury summons can result in a fine or an arrest warrant.

- It is against the law for employers to prevent their employees from serving on a jury or to retaliate against them if they do.

On the Net:

http://www.ventura.courts.ca.gov

http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/jury

With household budgets squeezed to the limit by the recession, more people are asking to be excused from jury duty on grounds that serving would be a financial hardship, Ventura County court officials say.

The upswing comes as the courts face the need to impanel more jurors for a growing number of trials, which are increasing partly because of the poor economy, according to prosecutors.

Meanwhile, many employers say they, too, are being hammered by the harsh business climate and can't afford to pay employees to miss work to serve on juries even though judges urge companies to be better corporate citizens by providing more paid leave for jury duty.

"A trial by jury is a precious right, but it doesn't mean anything until you've been accused of a crime," said Ventura County Superior Court Presiding Judge Kevin McGee. "Businesses use the legal system when they get involved in disputes, but if they're not willing to support it when it's needed for others, it's not a very appropriate approach to take."

Appropriate or not, paid jury leave is burdensome for her business, said Julie Thomason, co-owner of Ottavio's Italian Restaurant in Camarillo.

"First you're paying someone to be gone, then you're paying someone else to replace them and the employee is losing money from their tips," said Thomason, whose restaurant employs 50 workers. "We can't pay for jury duty, especially now."

In 2008, the number of jury trials in Ventura County spiked by 22 percent compared to the previous year ? 227 jury trials in 2007 to 278 in 2008 ? according to the Superior Court's figures.

The jump included a 13 percent rise in criminal trials, which grew from 209 in 2007 to 236 in 2008.

The increase in criminal trials is largely attributable to "more crime, more gang activity and the bad economy," said Chief Deputy District Attorney Michael Frawley.

Civil trials mushroomed by 133 percent, jumping from 18 in 2007 to 42 in 2008. Much of that increase is linked to a spike in landlord-tenant disputes and eviction notices, which are being driven by the poor economy, court officials said.

The surge in jury trials, coupled with the economic strain on many potential jurors, makes the job of summoning ample numbers of jury panels more critical than in years past, said Peggy Yost, court program manager.

"We're getting a lot of comments from jurors about financial hardship, job loss or the worry of job loss," said Yost, who oversees the jury summons process and serves as a liaison between the jury assembly room and the courthouse.

Jurors are paid $15 a day, after the first day, according to fees set by the state Legislature. Mileage is reimbursed at 34 cents a mile, one way.

As about 200 summoned jurors gathered one recent morning at the Ventura County courthouse, some of them spoke about the financial hardships they face.

"It's part of your civic duty, but who's going to pay my rent if I have to miss work?" asked Carla Edmonson, 42, of Oxnard, a single mother with two children.

"I'm holding down two part-time jobs because I got my hours cut. I'd like to serve, but I can't afford to," said Stacey Barber, 19, of Simi Valley, who was appearing on her first jury summons.

While judges understand that financial hardship can prevent jurors from serving, they also have to strike a balance between the needs of the courts and the challenges facing potential jurors, McGee said. Sometimes, he said, people exaggerate hardship or make up excuses to skip out on jury service.

"You hear so much about the denigration of jury service these days. Some people think if you can't figure a way out of it, then you're just dumb," McGee said.

But financial hardship is nearly always linked to an employer's unwillingness to pay for jury duty, said Ken Weitz, a law professor at California Lutheran University and a former criminal defense attorney.

"The jury is the only thing that comes between the citizen and the state; employers need to recognize that," Weitz said.

Ernest Niglio, co-owner of Rainbow Bridge Natural Foods in Ojai, said he would rather establish an employee retirement plan than pay for jury duty.

"We pay sick leave and vacation days and provide health insurance; jury pay is just not high on my list," said Niglio, who has 60 employees.

The integrity of the jury system needs to be supported by good corporate citizenship, said Superior Court Judge Henry Walsh, chairman of the court's jury committee, which sets guidelines for hardship excuses.

"They think: ?If I pay people to sit on a jury, they'll disappear for weeks at a time,' but it's not true," Walsh said. "Most trials last only two to four days."

He said he recently had a panel of 56 jurors in his courtroom and had to excuse 29 of them mostly for economic reasons. "Sometimes you get a 20 percent return on a jury panel and that can be a good day," Walsh said.

David Lehr, a Ventura-based criminal defense attorney and a former Ventura County prosecutor, said financial hardship excuses are a waste of the court's time.

"They bring in people who can't afford to miss one day of work," Lehr said. On a recent criminal case, he said out of 58 people on a jury panel, 27 were excused for financial hardship.

"I'm personally offended that we lawyers and judges make these people come into a courtroom and tell us publicly about their financial problems," Lehr said.

Yost said prospective jurors can be excused without having to appear in person by following the instructions on the jury summons for an "extreme financial hardship" excuse. By submitting monthly income and living expenses to the court, a hardship excuse can be granted by mail, she said.

Some local employers have paid jury leave polices that judges applaud. The county's largest private employer, Amgen, with 6,500 workers in Thousand Oaks and 16,500 worldwide, pays its employees for up to 10 days of jury duty, said Amgen spokeswoman, Kristen Davis.

Costco Wholesale Corp., with warehouses in Oxnard, Simi Valley and Westlake Village, has a paid jury leave policy of up to 40 hours a week for the duration of the trial, no matter how long it is, said Kirsten Bechard, Costco spokeswoman. Costco has 140,000 employees worldwide and is based in Issaquah, Wash.

The Ventura County Star pays employees for jury duty.

Big or small, companies should have a jury leave policy that contributes to a diverse jury pool in the community, Weitz said.

"If citizenship has any obligations, jury service is as fundamental as it gets," Weitz said. "Bad economy or not, employers are citizens and no one wants a jury pool made up mostly of students and retirees."
SHARE STAR FILE PHOTO Ventura County is giving Moorpark until Wednesday to rescind a sand truck route agreement with the Broad Beach replenishment project or face a threatened lawsuit.

By Mike Harris of the Ventura County Star

Ventura County is threatening to sue Moorpark and the Broad Beach replenishment project in Malibu if they do not rescind a sand truck route agreement by Wednesday.

"The purpose of this letter is to demand the immediate rescission and cancellation" of the agreement, County Counsel Leroy Smith wrote in a March 11 letter to Moorpark and the Broad Beach Geologic Hazard Abatement District. "The county will commence legal action against them," if the agreement is not nullified by the Wednesday deadline.

The county contends the agreement is void because it was not subjected to a California Environmental Quality Act analysis. County supervisors authorized the possible litigation in February.

Moorpark, however, does not intend to rescind the agreement "until a comprehensive solution is reached to protect Moorpark in a more effective manner," Moorpark City Attorney Kevin Ennis wrote in a letter to Smith last week.

Ennis wrote that the agreement is exempt from CEQA because under state law, a project undertaken by a Geologic Hazard Abatement District is not subject to CEQA review.

The pact is a lawful one aimed at protecting Moorpark residents from the prospect of hundreds of trucks a day filled with sand from nearby quarries traveling through the city to Broad Beach, he wrote.

The Moorpark City Council in October ratified a different route under which the trucks would, in general, avoid Moorpark by traveling to Broad Beach via Highway 126 through Fillmore and unincorporated areas.

Fillmore officials felt blindsided by Moorpark, which didn't include them in discussions about the truck routes. Fillmore officials don't want the trucks rumbling through their city for the same reasons Moorpark officials don't: environmental impacts, including noise and air pollution.

The Fillmore City Council has authorized the city to likely join the county in a lawsuit, which would seek to invalidate the agreement.

Ken Ehrlich, the attorney for the Broad Beach district, said Monday that the district is "working with all sides to try to avoid litigation," but stopped short of saying the agreement would be withdrawn by Wednesday.

The district is the group of wealthy Broad Beach landowners, including Hollywood and business elites, who are funding the $31 million restoration project.

Ennis wrote that the appropriate way to resolve the issue is not through litigation, but by the parties sitting down and working out mutually acceptable short- and long-term solutions.

Ehrlich, meanwhile, said the district is "working as fast as we can to develop alternate sand sources" so that the trucks won't have to travel through Fillmore or Moorpark.

The most promising such source is also in Ventura County, though Ehrlich said it was premature to identify it.

"Preliminary test results of the sand look good," he said. "We're trying to finalize what the logistics would look like if we were to use that sand source. I don't want to count our chickens before they're hatched."

The source is not Ventura Harbor, he said.

Greenlighted by a divided California Coastal Commission in October, the Broad Beach project will create a new 1.1-mile public beach, including a restored dune system. Ehrlich said he hopes the trucks will start to roll by the fall, whatever the source of sand is.
JOE LUMAYA/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Marie Nicholls (left) and Caroline Laughlin, both from Simi Valley, look at items up for bid in a silent auction to benefit Not One More in Simi Valley. The group that formed to raise awareness of heroin marked its fourth anniversary last month.

SHARE JOE LUMAYA/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Not One More president Pat Montoya speaks to guests during the organization's fourth anniversary event at the Simi Valley Town Center in February. JOE LUMAYA/SPECIAL TO THE STAR More than 60 people gathered at the Simi Valley Town Center in February to celebrate the fourth year for the organization Not One More. JOE LUMAYA/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Not One More formed four years ago in Simi Valley in response to heroin deaths. JOE LUMAYA/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Actor and radio host Shadoe Stevens talks about his personal experiences with drugs during an event to mark the fourth anniversary of the Not One More group in Simi Valley.

By Mike Harris of the Ventura County Star

Four years into its run, Simi Valley anti-heroin group Not One More has made strides to achieve the goal implicit in its name.

There have been heroin deaths in the city since the group's founding.

But they have trended downward, from seven in 2011 to zero in 2014 and 2015, police say.

Pat Montoya, president of the grass-roots organization that marked its fourth anniversary last month, says the nonprofit group deserves some of the credit.

"As a community, we all deserve credit toward this epidemic of opiate pills and heroin use, with the Simi Valley PD doing what they do on the law enforcement side," he said last week. "But yes, as a citizens drug awareness group, we deserve some credit for waking up the community to break the stigma of addiction and educating them on what's going on."

Not One More has also placed about 100 young people into heroin rehab programs, said Montoya, 55, whose son's continuing struggles with the opiate initially drew him to the group.

"We've made an impact on our community to help curb some overdose deaths, but how many we'll never know exactly," he said.

Simi Valley Police Cmdr. Joseph May agrees that by helping to raise the public's awareness about the heroin problem in Simi Valley, Not One More has played a role in heroin deaths decreasing there.

Police say the issue is not exclusive to Simi Valley, which over the years has been named among the safest in the country, but is nationwide.

"Prior to Not One More, many parents might have believed, 'Not my kid,'" May said. "Not One More, which is a bunch of concerned parents and family members, has validated the message law enforcement has been delivering for years that it can happen anywhere.

"Not One More is a cross-section of society that has the ability to allow every parent and/or family member to look in the mirror ... and face the stark reality that it could be their kid, their sibling, their friend," he said. "I think that raised awareness has a direct impact on deaths."

Not One More was founded in February 2012 by some Simi Valley parents whose children had died of heroin overdoses, to help educate the community about heroin addiction. The group was featured on the nationally syndicated "Dr. Phil" television talk show on its first anniversary, and has since expanded to nine chapters nationwide in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Colorado and other states. In Ventura County, it has opened a second chapter in Ojai.

The Simi Valley chapter is run by a core group of about eight to 10 volunteers, supported by many other community members, Montoya said. It commemorated its fourth anniversary with a Feb. 17 gathering at the Simi Valley Town Center.

DEATHS DOWN, ARRESTS UP

May said that while heroin deaths in the city have gone down, heroin-related arrests have increased significantly.

"When we look at the number of (heroin) arrests made by our department from 2010 through 2015, it has grown greatly," he said. "When we look at the number of heroin deaths, the number has dropped off."

In 2011, there were seven heroin-related deaths in Simi Valley, he said. That number dropped to two in 2012, rose to four in 2013, then dropped to zero in 2014, he said. There were no heroin deaths reported in the city in 2015, though toxicology reports have not been completed by the Ventura County Medical Examiner's Office for all of the deaths. Thus, potentially, some of them could yet be classified as heroin-related, he said.

In addition to the heroin deaths in Simi Valley, some Simi Valley young people have died of heroin overdoses in other cities, May said. Anecdotally, those deaths seem to have decreased in recent years too, he said.

"Back in 2011, 2012, we were hearing about it," May said. "In 2013, 2014, 2015, we're not."

Cities in west Ventura County have more heroin-related deaths than Simi Valley, according to county Behavioral Health Department statistics.

In 2014, for instance, the Oxnard/Port Hueneme area had 10 heroin-related deaths. In 2013, the Ventura/Fillmore area had 14. In 2012, the Oxnard/Port Hueneme area had 17, while the Ventura/Fillmore area had 16.

Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley's neighbor, had seven heroin-related deaths in 2014, according to behavioral health.

There were 45 heroin-related arrests in Simi Valley in 2010. There were 119 in 2011, 147 in 2012, 145 in 2013, 117 in 2014, and 180 in 2015.

May theorizes that California Proposition 47, which in 2014 reclassified personal possession of heroin from a felony to a misdemeanor, may be playing a role in the increase in the arrests.

"You get a ticket. You're let go. There are no immediate consequences," he said.

'UNSUNG HEROES'

Simi Valley Mayor Bob Huber has attended just about every Not One More meeting since the group launched. Huber was also instrumental in forming the Simi Valley Task Force on Heroin Prevention after the issue burst into the public consciousness in early 2012 with a stormy City Council meeting attended by hundreds of residents decrying the rash of heroin deaths.

Huber said Not One More has played an important role in combating the problem.

"It's an ongoing fight and a really hard task," he said. "We have to be working as a community and they sure have stepped up as a member of the team. They're unsung heroes in this battle, doing the day-to-day work of helping people.

"It's all volunteers who have a passion for what they're doing," he added. "I'm very impressed."

Montoya said Not One More still has its work cut out.

"Drug addicts are still around," he said. "And the addiction is still out there. Kids are still using this stuff. But we've been able to educate those parents who had no idea what drug addiction was or why their kids were acting the way they were or why they were finding the needles and tin foil in their house.

"They just couldn't figure it out," he said. "And now they're figuring it out and have somewhere to go. We get a ton of phone calls and we're finding out that parents are actually using us to find resources and what to do."
SHARE Elena Brokaw

By Elena Brokaw, Special to The Star

Q. I read that Ventura is celebrating its 150th anniversary. What events are planned?

A. Yes, our beautiful and historic coastal home  with miles of uncrowded beaches, gateway to the Channel Islands National Park, a thriving downtown cultural district, and distinguished schools  will celebrate 150 years of cityhood on April 2, 2016. The city of San Buenaventura, now known as Ventura, officially became a city on April 2, 1866 when the Legislature of the new state of California granted it one of the first charters in Southern California.

From the beginning, Ventura has been a place of commerce and encounters. The indigenous Chumash named the area Shisholop or "port on the coast" for their lucrative trade activities. Waves of Mexican, Chinese, European and American immigrants followed the arrival of the Spanish and the founding of Mission San Buenaventura by Junipero Serra in 1782.

We are celebrating this milestone anniversary, and are excited to be presenting opportunities for the entire community to be part of the festivities. The city has worked with more than 50 community leaders and local groups to develop a fun and educational series of events for families and visitors to enjoy, as well as the Million Acts of Kindness campaign. Our goal with all these events and activities is to celebrate Ventura's uniqueness, encourage participation, energize community pride, and prepare for the future.

The 150 days of celebration officially launched last November at the Museum of Ventura County in downtown Ventura. Since then, many community groups have sponsored events like the Hillsides Conservancy's planting of 150 trees, the Channel Islands National Park's premiere of the documentary film "West of the West," the St. Patrick's Day Parade honoring our city's founding families, and the Ventura Education Partnership's upcoming Big Bad Voodoo Daddy concert to benefit art and music programs for our schoolchildren.

These and other events demonstrate how committed our local businesses and residents feel about honoring Ventura's past and celebrating our future. Without our sponsors  Aera Energy, Bill and Elise Kearney, Montecito Bank and Trust, Pacific View mall, the Players Casino, So Cal Gas, the Ventura Auto Center dealers, and the Ventura Townehouse  we would not be able to experience this magical series of events. Visit www.celebrateventura.org to see the city's 150th celebration calendar of events, photos and a short video of the student's mock City Council meeting.

Our celebrations will end with a grand finale on Saturday at a free Family Fair and Picnic in Plaza Park, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with carnival games, races, musical performances, old-fashioned pie eating contests, barbecue and more. That will be followed by a benefit concert with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy in Mission Park, from 6:30-8 p.m., to support art and music programs in the Ventura Unified School District. (Concert tickets are still available at www.venturaeducationpartnership.org/BBVDbenefit.)

Our city is a unique and wonderful place. It's been a pleasure to share our 150th birthday with hundreds of residents, many of whom have come to our programs with mementos of the past that have been passed down through their families for generations. Being a part of this once-in-a-lifetime birthday has reminded me why so many people are drawn to our town  and why so many of us who were born here (like me) choose to never leave. It's not just that there's "no place like home;" it's that there's no place like our home.

Elena Brokaw is the director of the Parks, Recreation and Community Partnerships Department for the city of Ventura
JUAN CARLO/THE STAR Barbara Marquez-O'Neill is the daughter of Phil Marquez, who cut men's hair in his downtown Ventura shop for more than 60 years. "I think he was a healer," Marquez-O'Neill says.

SHARE JUAN CARLO/THE STAR Barbara Marquez-O'Neill is the daughter of Phil Marquez, who cut hair in Ventura for 62 years in his downtown Ventura shop. Marquez-O'Neill has opened a shop in the former barbershop, and reminders of her father decorate the walls. JUAN CARLO/THE STAR In this Marquez family photo, barber Phil Marquez gives Viggo Mortensen a haircut in his downtown Ventura shop. Courtesy Photo of the Marquez Family Phil Marquez cuts a customer's hair in his downtown Ventura shop March 27, 1951. JUAN CARLO/THE STAR Barbara Marquez-O'Neill is the daughter of Phil Marquez, who cut hair in Ventura for more than 60 years. Related Coverage Stories of those who know Ventura well: Edward Jue

By Arlene Martinez, amartinez@vcstar.com

Long before mindfulness became the state to be in, Phil the Barber gave haircuts in a Ventura shop the size of a large closet.

Inside, at 12 W. Main St. near Ventura Avenue, he listened.

To the man who was downsized from his high-paying gig and ended up in a pay-by-week room downtown.

To the actor in town for a shoot.

To the troubles and joys that crossed the mind of the man in front of him.

"My dad," says Barbara Marquez-O'Neill, "was present for the person in the chair."

Reminders of Phil Marquez surround his second daughter in the most literal way.

Editors note

The city of San Buenaventura, incorporated in 1866, is having a big shindig on April 2 to celebrate its 150th birthday. To mark the occasion, were sharing stories of people who know the city well.

See, in the same place where for 60-plus years Phil gave haircuts, there remain framed plaques from when the city twice declared "Phil Marquez Day." The small drawer where he stored his combs and scissors is still there. The store sign, with "Phil's" written in cursive, is on the wall.

Only now, it is her shop.

Incense, healing rocks and sage fill the space. Fabrics from Bali, Singapore and Oaxaca are draped over tables. A prayer painted by a monk in Vietnam hangs on the wall and a Chinese tea set sits on the table, both gifts from her son.

Natural soaps were sold in the store, in the time between when her dad gave up the shears in 2010 and when Barbara moved in last year. When the space opened up, she jumped at the opportunity to offer healing services of her own.

At Orenda Rising Center for Personal Renewal and Well-Being, Barbara works with people on mindful transitions, spiritual counseling, stress reduction, women's healing groups and ways to die consciously.

Her dad died consciously, she thinks, not long after she and her sister both promised to take care of his wife and their mom, Angelina.

Barbara still lives in the house on Mission Street where the family grew up. Her mom lives with her sister Elvira (Barbara's tia) in the back.

Before a haircut, Barbara says, her dad used to put his hands on the man's shoulders. Many customers said they often felt relaxed.

"I think he was a healer," she says.

Barbara doesn't think she's a healer. Maybe a conduit.

"My dream for this space is that it'll be a community space, a safe place, a place for people to convene," she says. "This space has become almost like a sacred space to me."
CONTRIBUTED IMAGE/City of Ventura

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By Arlene Martinez, amartinez@vcstar.com

The city of Ventura is expected to make more than it spent in the fiscal year that ends June 30, but finance officials warn tough times are ahead to keep providing residents a high quality of life.

The city's general fund, its main checkbook for basic services like police, fire, parks and public works, will take in $99.5 million and spend $98.4 million, Finance and Technology Director Gilbert Garcia told the City Council last week during a second budget workshop.

The revenue is about $20 million higher than what the city received in fiscal year 2010-11, reflecting a better economy. However, the city is catching up from lean years, when maintenance, improvements and new community offerings were either cut or put off, officials said.

"While the city continues to live within its means, it does not have the financial resources to invest in critical projects," a staff report notes.

That includes the city's roads, which are largely paid for through ever-decreasing gas taxes. Fuel-efficient and electric vehicles translate into fewer gas tax dollars, City Manager Mark Watkins said.

That means by fiscal year 2018-19, less than $2 million will be available to address the city's road needs, well shy of the $8.35 million city officials said is necessary to keep the roads at current conditions.

Last year, the city's pavement condition index was 70 mark, and that will drop to 63 by 2020, according to an administrative report prepared last summer. The League of California Cities considers 71 and above to be "good."

What costs $1 to fix now will cost $5 in a "few short years," Watkins said. "That's why this has been growing in attention at the state, local and federal level."

At the request of City Council member Christy Weir, the city received an update on the health of trees. In 2007, a staff of 10 people ensured trees were pruned roughly every three years. Now, it's from seven to nine years. The drought has made things worse, said Parks Manager Nancy O'Connor. The trees are "stressed" and failing at a high rate, she said.

According to the League's financial health tool, which looked at 13 indicators including savings, debt and liquidity, the city gets red lights, or warning levels, in two areas: fixed costs and public service levels.

Garcia said 95 percent of the city's general fund is tied up in fixed costs, which includes salaries and benefits, far above the 80 percent suggested.

In terms of public service levels, they are "below what the community needs," Garcia said.

To get a better handle on where Ventura should direct its limited resources, the city prepared a community needs assessment. It includes projects for which funding is not yet identified and was developed after consulting with department heads and looking at recent resident surveys, assistant City Manager Dan Paranick said.

"It's not pie-in-the-sky stuff. It's stuff we need to do so we can maintain our community," he said.

The city needs $345 million for capital and infrastructure needs, such as bridges, sidewalk improvements and building out Ventura Community Park; $6.4 million to handle community maintenance concerns, including parking lots, traffic signals and coastline protection; and $10.9 million to pay for programming and services, such as homeless programs, library services and improved emergency response times, the report notes.

It calls for $5.7 million in spending for fire and police, which includes hiring new officers and firefighters and constructing a new fire station.

The assessment would cost $700 million over 20 years; of that, $200 million would potentially be offset with grants and gas tax money, Paranick said.

The document isn't a spending plan, he stressed, but rather a way to "begin a discussion of needs and priorities."


illustration photo

The plant is co-invested by Malaysias Jaks Resources Bhd and China Power Engineering Consulting Group Co., Ltd. (CPECC) and in a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model.

According to a representative of the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), as regulated by the BOT contract, the construction must be completed within four years, otherwise, a fine will be imposed on the investors.

The Hai Duong plant will be constructed by Southwest Electric Power Design Institute Co., Ltd. and China Power Engineering Consulting Group International Engineering Co., Ltd.

In September 2011, Jaks Resources held the ground-breaking ceremony of the plant, however, the construction works have yet to be implemented. Even, in early 2014, suspicions arose regarding the Malaysian investors financial capacity to carry out the project.

In July 2015, Jaks Resources announced its co-operation deal with CPECC to implement the project. Accordingly, their equity will make up 25 per cent of the total investment capital, while the remaining 75 per cent is covered by loans.

According to Jaks Resources chairman Tan Sri Datuk Husun Bin Haji Ismail, CPECC has the necessary financial potential and extensive experience in constructing thermal power plants, thus the co-operation will massively accelerate the projects construction.

In a similar development, on January 19, the MoITs General Directorate of Energy and a consortium of investors including Taekwang Power and Aowa Power signed the investment agreement for Nam Dinh 1 BOT thermal power plant, in Hanoi. The investors are finalising procedures for an investment certificate. The $2 billion plant with a total capacity of 1,200MW is expected to be operational by 2020.

To date, the MoIT has managed over 20 large-scale BOT thermal power projects across the nation, adding a total generation capacity of 4,200MW to the national grid. Among these, Phu My 2.2 and Phu My 3 plants in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau and the first phase of Mong Duong 2 plant in the northern province of Quang Ninh are operational.
China is drafting a policy to allow lenders to convert bank loans into equity for the debtor companies. Do you think Vietnam can also use this method to deal with its heap of non-performing loans (NPLs)?

Yes. I have looked at this strategy and think it is an innovative solution to a long-standing problem. Like Vietnam, China long ago set up not just one company like Vietnam Asset Management Company (VAMC), but several bad banks, which buy NPLs from commercial banks. Fifteen years later most of them still sit there at full value. The plan to start auctioning them out on a distressed-asset market did not seem to pan out. Vietnam can follow the progress of this programme and draw appropriate conclusions for its own NPL problem.

What is your view on this method of handling debt? Is there any risk that stems from such an approach, or should Vietnam consider implementing it?

There is always some risk in policy making. But to do nothing, or to do the same thing over and over again is also risky. Einstein once said that to follow the same practices and expect different results is a questionable modus operandi. There should be some serious cost-benefit studies carried out before this question can be answered. Some of the costs have been enumerated by analysts in a different context. Two of the prime benefits are: (i) lowering the amount of frozen bad debts now piling up at state-owned bad banks and, (ii) banks can clean up their balance sheets, lowering NPL ratios, lessening provisions, and allowing them to make new loans.

Local banks often function as commercial banks, not investment banks. Current regulations prevent commercial banks from investing in non-core businesses. Can the debt/equity swap actually work in Vietnam, when swapping debts to equity stakes would mean banks should step into the debtor companies shoes, to manage and operate them, in a bid to recover their debts?

Actually, after the financial crisis of 2007-2008, all banks in the US became commercial banks (so they can borrow from the Fed), including Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch, and Morgan Stanley. But they still have investment banking divisions to handle M&As, corporate consulting and IPOs, among others. Vietnamese banks can do the same. Or if you want to be even more cautious, there could be a firewall between the deposit-taking side of the bank and the investment banking side. This is not an insoluble problem.

Banks do not take an equity stake in companies as a kind of non-core investment. That is not their intention (and in legal matters, intent is of paramount importance). They do this as part of an attempt to recover their capital, which would otherwise be lost.

When a bank swaps debt for equity, it does not mean that it has to run the operation. The management can be kept in place while the bank gets seats on the board. It can ask for changes in, or even replacement of, the management as the case may be. In the latter case, new managers would be installed. I agree that at no time should the bank run any companies. It should hire good managers to do that. And these hired guns are available for a fee. And they tend to be very good at what they do: their fee plus bonus depend on the results obtained.

Youve mentioned that a better solution for banks would be to securitise the debts and sell them to the market. Can you please elaborate a bit more on this approach?

A better solution is for a bank to roll all of its NPLs together into a bundle of assets. Then asset-backed securities or bonds can be issued on the back of these loans. This is called securitisation, and is a widely-practiced strategy to resolve NPLs.

It is easier to sell securities based on a bundle of loans than to sell whole loans. The loans can be assembled then chopped up into tranches depending on their quality. Bonds can be issued reflecting the characteristics of each tranche, going from low-risk (yielding lower returns) to high-risk (yielding high returns). Since the bonds are priced according to the risk embedded in them, they can respond to investors wide range of risk appetites.

I think the distressed-asset market is based on the idea of auctioning off loan by loan (along with the underlying collateral). Investor response so far has been tepid, as seen in China during the past 15 years. VAMC has been trying to set up such a market, but progress has been slow.

To sum up, I think the best NPL solution may have two components: debt-to-equity swaps and securitisation of NPLs (and issuance of asset-backed securities into the market). The components can be allowed to proceed side by side, in a concerted effort to solve the NPL problem once and for all. But time is of the essence, because bad debts are like fish. They should be sold today because tomorrow they tend to get worse.
How has Dai-ichi Life Vietnam mobilised funds to raise its chartered capital? Also, why is it raising its chartered capital at this time?

As of January 18, 2016, Dai-ichi Life Vietnam was officially given approval by the Ministry of Finance to increase its chartered capital from $72 million to $87 million. Dai-ichi Life Vietnam is also progressively preparing to raise its total chartered capital to $100 million in the first quarter of 2016. This marks a milestone of our nine-year journey in Vietnam. For the purposes of our business expansion and investment, a chartered capital of $100 million will affirm Dai-ichi Life Vietnam as one of the leading life insurers in terms of market capital. We are happy that our parent group has trusted us and injected more capital so that we can sustainably expand our business in Vietnam, implying that this is one of the key markets in Asia for the groups overseas business development strategy.

After almost a decade operating in Vietnam, can you highlight some key milestones for Dai-ichi Life Vietnam?

After nine years in the business, Dai-ichi Life Vietnam has grown more than nine-fold in total premium revenue, and continues to maintain its leading position in the Top 4 in terms of total premiums in the life insurance market in Vietnam. We are now serving more than one million customers through a diversified and comprehensive portfolio of financial solutions, and a staff of nearly 750 employees and 50,000 professional financial consultants. Dai-ichi Life Vietnam is proud to hold the third rank position for its customer service network, with over 170 offices and general agencies throughout the country.

Besides our ten-year strategic co-operation with HDBank in distributing products through the banks network, most recently, on January 18, 2016, we successfully coupled raising our chartered capital with signing a long-term exclusive agreement with Vietnam Post Corporation (VNPost). For the next 15 years, Dai-ichi Life Vietnam will be the sole business providing life insurance products through VNPosts network of post offices in 63 cities and provinces nationwide.

We were also honoured to receive many prestigious awards that demonstrate our superiority in providing high-quality products and professional services in the Vietnamese market. For instance, we were the only life insurer to receive the Top 100 Brands - Vietnam Gold Star 2015 award by the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Association, and the Trusted Brand award for three consecutive years (2013, 2014, and 2015), as well as the Golden Dragon award with the title The Best Life Insurer for seven consecutive years (2008-2014), along with many other accolades.

Dai-ichi Life Vietnam takes great pride in being recognised throughout Asia for initiatives that support social progress. We were twice granted the Corporate Social Responsibility Award by the Asia Insurance Review magazine for our project to supply clean drinking water and our rural bridge building programme.

How has Dai-ichi Life demonstrated its commitment to life improvement and the progress of society in Vietnam?

Without a doubt, we are strongly committed to the development of a sustainable society and to making long-term contributions to benefit the community. This is reflected not only in our charity initiatives, but also in our business movements. Take our co-operation with VNPost as an example. This is part of our strategy to diversify the distribution channels of Dai-ichi Life Vietnam, but in fact it also serves our desire to create opportunities for all people in Vietnam to access our companys quality life insurance products and services, especially those living in rural and remote areas. With tireless efforts from both sides, we are very happy to launch the first savings and protection package Loc Hung Thinh on March 18, 2016, which has many advanced benefits to meet the needs of our rural customers.

Dai-ichi Life Vietnam has also pioneered many other charitable and social programmes, with a total contribution of over VND15 billion ($671,250). We have funded scholarships for impoverished and underprivileged students, financed eye operations for the blind, and many others.

What lies ahead for Dai-ichi Life Vietnam?

Looking forward to our 10-year anniversary as a lifetime partner of the Vietnamese people in January 2017, we are committed to sparing no effort to develop our available resources, to continue our business network expansion, and to improve our service quality in order to reach a 10 per cent market share in the life insurance industry by the end of 2016.

Last but not least, Dai-ichi Life Vietnam has taken steps to establish a Corporate Social Responsibility Fund, titled the For A Better Life Foundation. This foundation has the noble mission of improving the quality of life for the Vietnamese people through long-term and regular community support, focusing on the areas of health, education, environment, and charity.
Police carry out extra patrols at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam in response to attacks in Brussels. (AFP/Evert Elzinga)

THE HAGUE: Dutch police on Sunday (Mar 27) arrested a 32-year-old French national in the port city of Rotterdam on suspicion of planning a terror attack, prosecutors said, in a raid carried out at the request of France.

"French authorities on Friday requested the arrest of this French national," the national prosecutor's office said in a statement, adding that the man was suspected "of preparing a terrorist attack". The statement made no mention of any connection with the November attacks in Paris.

Three other men were also detained in the police operations, including two suspects of Algerian background aged 43 and 47. No immediate details were available about the third man, the statement said.

The raids were carried out in two streets in the west of the city, and several nearby homes were evacuated "for the safety of the residents".

The detained French national is expected to be handed over to France "shortly", prosecutors added.

The Netherlands was already on heightened alert after Tuesday's airport and metro attacks in Brussels, with security stepped up at airports and train stations and border controls tightened.


Last weeks seminar in Ho Chi Minh City helped local textile, apparel, and footwear firms prepare for the TPP

Photo: Le Toan

Many Vietnamese enterprises are still confused regarding the incoming Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), despite the fact that they know they have many disadvantages compared to foreign competitors, said Nguyen Cong Ai, deputy general director of KPMG Vietnam.

Opportunity is not equally divided, but the more seriously an enterprise prepares for it, the better results they should have, Ai told last weeks forum themed TPP and the Textile, Apparel and Footwear Sectors: How to Seize Opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City, which was co-organised by VIR and the Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (Vafie).

Moreover, Ai noted, Vietnamese garment, textile, and footwear sectors not only had to struggle with their dependence on foreign materials, increasing labour standards, and new targets in manufacturing capacity, they were also at risk of losing their slice of the market share in Vietnam.

Foreign invested enterprises, meanwhile, have invested a lot into the textile, garment, and footwear sectors in Vietnam in order to seize the TPPs lucrative trade benefits. Among these are Taiwans Far Eastern, Turkeys Hyosung Dong Nai, Hong Kongs Lu Thai Yarn, and Worldon from the British Virgin Islands.

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Dang Huy Dong highlighted the importance of smooth connectivity between sectors.

Enterprises in related sectors, Dong said, should be concentrated in proximity and have a similar mind-set in terms of their zoning plan in order to reduce costs and increase competitiveness.

Those enterprises can use services and support each other in an aim to improving the quality and efficiency of the whole value chain, Dong said.

In the near future, the garment, textile, and footwear sectors will have to create a link between companies in the value chain, giving preferential credit to projects and companies investing in technology, machinery, design capacity, and increasing co-operation with foreign investors to fully grasp the opportunities for increased trade fostered by the TPP.

At present, Vietnams textile and garment sector is mostly contractors involved in the cut-make-trim process of the global supply chain, and are ultimately unable to carry out the whole process. As such, the added value of Vietnamese products is low. It is estimated that between 60 and 70 per cent of input materials are imported, predominantly from China, South Korea, and Taiwan. Moreover, these sectors are weak in design. As they are mostly subcontractors, they dont have the ability to design and build their own brands.

International institutions forecast that Vietnams textile and garment sector is in a position to achieve $30 billion in the total export value by 2020, increasing to $55 billion by 2025.

However, this can only be achieved if raw material producers post similar growth. In other words, developing supporting industries for the textile and garment sector plays a decisive role, paving the way for businesses in the sector to boost efficiency once the free trade agreements come into force.
The event was co-hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Lao counterpart Somsavat Lengsavad.

Deputy Prime Minister Phuc, who leads the Joint Government Cooperation Committee said, We will identify investment needs and orientation in the years to come. Vietnam and Laos share each others success in investment. Based on both countries Party Politbureau resolutions, we will target high efficient projects in Laos, including those using FDI and ODA funding in disadvantaged areas."

Phuc called on both nations focus on carrying out their bilateral agreement for 2016-2020, enhancing transport connectivity and speeding up the implementation of the one-door mechanism.

Businesses need to accelerate the progress of licensed projects and comply with local laws, he added.

The Lao Deputy Prime Minister, in turn underlined the need to boost administrative reforms, outline bilateral cooperation mechanisms, and hold a joint Cabinet meeting after the annual meeting of the two Politburos aiming to implement set goals.



He also asked Vietnamese businesses to work hand in hand with Lao authorities to invest in project on health care, education-training, agriculture and tourism.

The conference gave Vietnamese businesses and investors a chance to access new projects in Laos and foster their cooperation in tourism and transport.
Traditionally, value has been understood to relate to tangible assets: the physical things that can be seen and touched; everything from hard cash and inventory to plant machinery and office buildings. Not so today. Increasingly, real business value is seen as lying in intangible assets: things with no corporeal form but nevertheless, hugely valuable, for example, a companys intellectual property, its brand or its human resources.

By Jasbir Singh - Applications vice president for ERP/SCM Asia Pacific, Oracle Corporation

Intangible assets have been behind some of the biggest IPOs and valuations we have seen in recent years. Think about Facebook (peak market capitalisation of over $104 billion), and Twitter (estimated market capitalisation of $12.67 billion). It is their intangible assets that make them so valuable: their customer data, their algorithms, the access to data, intelligence, use of data and their brands.

This fundamental shift in how value is understood brings with it some real challenges for the finance function of businesses. If finance function is to understand and demonstrate the true value of their business, it must be able to accurately analyse and measure, and report on intangibles in the world where both structured data and unstructured data exist in their systems. This requires understanding what these new assets are, establishing KPIs against them and measuring the performance of these new assets. This data must then be reported in a transparent and clear way to investors, shareholders, customers and other relevant stakeholders. As we can see now, more and more intelligence and value are extracted by bringing both these structured data and unstructured data together.

Therefore, it seems clear that if finance is to accurately understand the value of their business then data management is crucial. Finance must be able to effortlessly draw on information from all lines of business and operations, and bring this data together in a single source of truth. Moreover, for finance to be able to create a compelling narrative around this data, it must work hand-in-hand with all lines of business managers to understand the full implications of what the data is telling them. In this model, finance is the guidance system for the business, connecting all the various departments and stakeholders to find, understand and report on value.

To enable this vision however, finance needs to transform the way it operates. The days of spreadsheets and manual processes are over for the last mile of reporting. If the value of assets are to be measured accurately, the back and forth between finance and business managers must be kept to a minimum, as not only does it delay reporting but it provides scope for errors to slip in to the process. Instead, finance needs a system that can provide workflow and security (to ensure only those who have access to sensitive data can see it) while guaranteeing that data is automatically kept current and correct. On top of that, finance cannot simply rely on standard ERP systems but need to expand into line of business systems and further into complex predictive systems that work on large data lakes in the world of BIG DATA.

The modern cloud-based enterprise performance management systems tick all of these boxes and for this reason, I fully expect to see them dominate the last mile of reporting in the near future. They provide a system of systematically trawling the business for valuable intangible assets like intelligence, knowledge, analytics and then bringing them together in a narrative-driven report. The outcome is a finance team that is better able to accurately measure their business worth and report it in a transparent way to stakeholders.
Ten sectors of FIEs have had the highest export value, comprising mobile phones and components, textile and garment, computers and electric units, footwear, machinery, and seafood, transportation vehicles, coffee, and bags and suitcases (see chart below).

According to Vietnam Customs statistics released on March 22, FIEs export-import value between January 1 and March 15 reached $39.56 billion, or 65.3 per cent of Vietnams total.

Notably, foreign enterprises export value was $21.63 billion, up 6.4 per cent on-year.

IEs import value between January 1 and March 15 of this year reached $17.93 billion, decreasing 7.8 per cent on-year. Production mainly centred around, yet again, ten sectors, namely computers and components, machinery, mobile phones and components, fabric, iron and steel, plastics, textile and garment materials, metals, and oil and petrol products (see chart below).
What motivated Pernod Ricard to initiate the programme?

As one of the worlds largest wine and spirits producers, we have a responsibility to ensure sustainable development, and give back to the community wherever we operate. As a company, we are deeply tied to local communities and are looking to contribute to their development, with a special focus on promoting entrepreneurship as a way of value creation.

In Vietnam, we recognise the need to offer specialised vocational training and occupational skills for young people, especially those in difficult circumstances. According to the General Statistics Office, the more than 53 million Vietnamese are within working age, and among these, many vulnerable youths in the country lack access to affordable skills training and a career path. To respond to this need, Pernod Ricard has partnered up with the bartending department of Nguyen Truong To Vocational School in Ho Chi Minh City. The positive results we have seen so far have been a great inspiration for us to maintain the programme over the past four years.

Why did Pernod Ricard decide to provide training for disadvantaged young people of all the available CSR programmes?

Each of our markets has its own set of unique challenges. In Vietnam, we recognise the need for further training and support to help the youth, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to have access to better opportunities and a brighter future. According to REACH, a non-profit organisation working to support the Vietnamese youth, the unemployment rate in the15-24 age bracket has been relatively high, standing at 7 per cent over the last decade, compared to the overall unemployment rate of 2.88 per cent.

To us, this signals the need for urgent action to provide access to training and employment opportunities, especially for disadvantaged young people.

How does Pernod Ricard support graduates from its course in their future career? Do they get access to your global network and expertise?

We select 100 participants each year for a three-month professional bartending course, providing them with all-round essential skills and knowledge, along with the best international standards in professional ethics and awareness of responsible drinking and community welfare.

One of the key elements of this programme includes training students in the norms of professional conduct, including strong interpersonal skills, which help students advance further at their workplace.

To keep the learning momentum, and to inspire students further, each year we invite experienced global bartenders to share their experiences and best practices.

Along with our partner, we commit to give up to 80% of the students job opportunities upon completing the course. Graduates from the programme are now working for employers like the Renaissance Riverside Hotel, Escape Bar, and Runam Bistro. Many of our trainees have set the bar high. Mai Thao, an outstanding student from 2014, recently reached the Top 5 in the Asia Pacific Cocktail Competition held in Singapore.

With these elements, we believe that the Bartender Career Start-up programme has built a solid foundation for Vietnamese youth to achieve greater success in their careers.

What community programmes has Pernod Ricard introduced globally?

Globally, we have implemented various programmes that encourage responsible drinking, promote the development of local communities, and help protect the environment.

Pernod Ricard is a member of the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking (IARD) that aims to encourage consumers to enjoy their drinks responsibly. In Vietnam, we have also participated in the forum of Vietnam Alliance for Responsible Drinking.

What are Pernod Ricards vision and strategy for CSR activities in Vietnam and in the world?

Corporate Social Responsibility has always been a very important activity for us as a company.

We have always made sure to create a close link between our operations and the host communities, with a special focus on helping along their development, promoting entrepreneurship, sharing local cultural traditions, as well as supporting openness, respect, and human diversity. In addition, outside our own operations, we share the values of our business partners and shareholders, and keep the principles of sustainable business growth at the core of what we do.
The Hau River is one of the two tributaries of the Mekong River, starting from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and running through the Vietnamese provinces in the Mekong Delta region.

For the past two months, locals living on the banks of the river in Vinh Long Province have been keeping a watchful eye on sand miners given worsening land submersion caused by the activity.

Bui Van Trieu, who lives in Phu Thanh Ward in Vinh Long, where the sand mining takes place, said local residents have been ambushing the barges used for mining sand in the tributaries of the river since the beginning of 2016.

At first, we thought they were just a bunch of sand pirates who would go away after a few shipments. It was not until they took away a dozen barges of sand that we reported the incident to ward officials, who said that the sand miners had been authorized by the provincial authorities, a local said.

Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper journalists who followed local residents to the mining site reported seeing a barge scooping sand from the riverbank onto its load.

As local people approached the barge to confront the miners, those on board appeared indifferent and unmoved, only saying they worked for a man named Chin Ha.

Police arrived at the scene nearly an hour later, only to retreat after calling a superior for directions, without checking the operating license of the miners.

Local people riding on motorized sampans showed the reporters metal bars they had prepared beforehand, saying, We have got everything prepared. If they push it, we wont back away anymore.

Speaking to the reporters, Tran Vinh Ha, chairman of Tan Binh Minh Cooperative, the operator of sand mining activities on the Hau River, said his cooperative had been licensed by the provincial Peoples Committee to mine sand at the My Hoa-Phu Thanh sand mine for six years.

However, Ha said, when the cooperative brought equipment to the site to start mining on February 15, they met with objection and interference by local residents, so the operation had to be halted.

After a dialogue among the cooperative, the authorities, and the people took place on March 10, the mining operation was still obstructed by locals, Ha said.

They didnt let us take the sand, and even threatened to set fire to the barges, so we had no choice but to retreat, Ha explained, adding, we still havent resumed the operation yet. We are losing billions of VND in mining fees alone.

However, as the Tuoi Tre reporters found, local residents have reported catching illegal miners red-handed at the authorized sand mines as well, who were later charged VND16 million (US$715) for the operation.

Vo Van Dau, 61, said excessive sand mining in the area has led to serious land subsidence even in areas where there used to be accretion.

Dau said he and local people had used tree trunks and sand bags to fortify the riverbank, but their fortification mysteriously disappeared shortly after.

Residents who use riverside lands to farm fish have also had to sell their fish prematurely, fearing that soil erosion would sweep away all their aquaculture properties.

Not only do authorized miners exploit the banks to their full extent, but illegal ones also sneak in to have their share, turning our once peaceful land into a constant fear of land submersion, a local resident said.


illustration photo

Vietravel said that for safety reasons, it would ask customers for approval to change the Europe tour programs they have booked. After the terror attacks on an airport and a metro station in Brussels, Vietravel immediately contacted its Vietnamese customers in Europe and found they are all safe.

Vietravels 26 guests are in the Netherlands and will be traveling to Belgium this Saturday. The company is working with its partners and European tour guides to rearrange tour itineraries.

Other travel firms said they are keeping a close watch on the security situation in Europe and maintain regular contacts with their local partners to make preparations for their Vietnamese guests to travel to the continent later this month and early April.

Local travel firms said they had got no cancelations of European tours after the bombings in Belgium, which killed at least 31 people and injured 260 others as reported by Reuters.

According to the outbound tour department of a travel firm in HCMC, Vietnamese visitors to Europe often spend just one day in Belgium as it takes more days to visit France, the Netherlands, Italy and other European countries.

Vietnamese tourists have grown anxious about traveling to Europe since the terror attacks on Paris in November last year, according to travel firms. At that time, some customers aborted their bookings of Europe tours for fear of security in the French capital.

After the attacks in Belgium, Vietnam Airlines said it would operate flights between Vietnam and Europe as usual but stressed that it would intensify security for these services.

The national flag carrier allows passengers to get refunds and reschedule flights between Vietnam and Europe at no charge until March 31.
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After Prime Minister Hun Sen poked fun last week at the ongoing chaos of the U.S. elections, a senior opposition figure has said he is concerned about the possibility of Donald Trump winning the Republican nomination and becoming president.

Cambodia National Rescue Party chief whip Son Chhay told VOA Khmer that he believed a boastful and aggressive leader like Trump could lead the U.S. into disastrous foreign policy decisions.

Son Chhay drew a specific comparison between Trump and the late U.S. President Richard Nixon, also a member of the Republican party, who in the late 1960s ordered the secret bombing of Cambodia, as Americas war in neighboring Vietnam spilled over the border. The bombing campaign devastated parts of the country and helped precipitate the horrors of the Khmer Rouge era.

The Republicans are those who do not want to talk muchthey often use force, said Son Chhay. As we know and weve seen in Cambodia during the Vietnam and Indochina wars, when President Nixon from the Republican party used force and bombed [us].

Trump is leading the field in the race for the Republican nomination. He has declared that he wants to build a large wall on the U.S.-Mexican border, and said he would bar Muslims from entering the country as a way of preventing terrorism.

The politically incorrect content of his speeches has concerned observers, including many Republicans, but appears to be popular among a constituency of voters.

Ive seen people like Trump. He is a boastful person and an aggressive person, Son Chhay said. This kind of boastful and aggressive person could bring harm to not only the U.S., but also to the world, since we know that the U.S is the most powerful country in the world.

Even China, which has a lot of money and a variety of modern military weapons, could not face the U.S, he added. If Trump is elected, he will cause chaos not only in his country but also in the world. [His] violence and threats to others could cause, as I said, insecurity in the world.
Despite the official end of conflict in the country almost 20 years ago, Cambodia has seen ever increasing numbers of children living in orphanages. There is evidence suggesting that these places may be rife with exploitation and abuse. Most concerning, perhaps, it is common knowledge that many of the children in so-called orphanages are not orphans.

In order to help the government and civil society come up with policy reforms to address the issue, academics at New Yorks Columbia University have carried out extensive research into the scope of the problem.

Lindsay Stark, an associate professor with the universitys program on forced migration and health, led the researchers. Her team confirmed that many of these children do have parents. Most are placed in child care institutions because parents believe their children will get a better education, or will be in better care, Stark told VOA Khmer.

Really, the concern is creating a secondary or dual system where parents believe that their children are going to be better served by having them leave the family, instead of trying to find ways to alleviate poverty to increase access to better education, she said.

Research in different settings has found that, in the long run, children living in care institutions face long-term cognitive and social impairment, compared to children who stay with their families.

This likely will have significant implications for the overall effect on these children, when they grow up into adulthood to get good jobs, to be fullest and most meaningful contributors to their society, she said.

In Cambodia, there have been numerous reports of children exploitation and abuse at child care institutions. In a shocking recent case, the head of the Our Home orphanage in Phnom Penh, Hang Vibol, was convicted last month for abusing 11 children under his care. The sentence of only three years in prison was seen as lenient given Vibols abuse of his position of trust.

But researching abuses and child exploitation is complicated by ethical concerns, Stark said. We certainly know that these kind of abuses are actually happening, she said. But to try to measure the extent of violence and abuse in a setting where youre potentially going for a day, and then leaving that child in the setting, raises a huge ethical concern.

According to a 2014 survey by the United Nations Childrens Fund, more than 11,000 children are currently living in 228 child care institutions in Cambodia. But the real number could be higher given that the survey did not include the unregistered care facilities.

In late 2015, the government of Cambodia ratified a sub-degree to monitor the Cambodias child care institutions, requiring them all to register with the Ministry of Social Affairs and adhere to standards of care.

Stark said she hopes that the results of her teams research, which will be released by the end of March, will help the Cambodian government and other stakeholders to arrive at effective policies for social welfare.
With Prime Minister Hun Sen announcing a Cabinet reshuffle last week, political observers have drawn comparisons with Cambodias fellow Southeast Asian nation Myanmar, where the first democratically elected government in more than half a century is about to be formed.

Cambodias strongman leader, Prime Minister Hun Sen, announced that three long-serving ministersForeign Minister Hor Namhong, Minister of Land Management Im Chhun Lim and Deputy Prime Minister Keat Chhonwill all retire to make way for replacements. In a letter to the National Assembly, Hun Sen said ministers and high-ranking officials were being exchanged at eight ministries in total, in a reshuffle that will come into effect in early April.

But observers say Hun Sens attempts to create a narrative of reform surrounding the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) did not stand up to comparison with the sea change taking place in nearby Myanmar.

Myanmar, also known as Burma, has been under the rule of military dictators and their proxies since a 1962 coup. But the National League for Democracy won a resounding victory at Novembers national elections and now dominates the parliament. Former prisoner of conscience Aung San Suu Kyi will take up a Cabinet position in the new government set to take power on April 1.

Hun Sens changes, meanwhile, are a largely superficial effort to alleviate pressure on the CPP, said Koul Panha, executive director of the Committee for Free and Fair Elections in Cambodia.

The Cabinet of the ruling CPP government led by Prime Minister Hun Sen does not care much about efficiency, he said. For the most part, it focuses on stability in the government and political stage, especially the stability of the party.

Myanmar looks set for more economic and social reforms that some hope will see the resource-rich countrylong the sick man of Southeast Asialeapfrog other nations. Suu Kyis choice for president, Htin Kyaw, has already slashed the number of ministries in the countrys central government from 36 to 21, indicating an effort to streamline government functions.

By contrast, Cambodias government is notoriously top heavy, reflecting Hun Sens use of political patronage to bolster his power. The Cabinetwhich employs at least 270 people including administrative staffstill has nine deputy prime ministers. The country has a total of 26 ministries, not including the powerful Council of Ministers.

Additionally, some of the more senior members of the government are getting old and becoming even less dynamic, Panha said.

The efficiency, energy and tenacity [of ministers] goes down with their age, he said. There is a new wave in the ruling party who want to garner experience in top government posts. This is a sort of pressure which led to premier to think about adjustments. Even though theres hope of deep reform, in the end it is to no avail, since the Cabinet keeps on growing.

Unlike Myanmar, Cambodia has had practically the same leadership since more than 30 years ago, when Hun Sen first ascended to the top of government, noted Ear Sophal, a professor at Occidental College in Los Angeles and the author of the book Aid Dependence in Cambodia.

Sophal agreed that last weeks reshuffle was largely for show, and not the genuine effort to reform the government it has been presented as.

I am sure [Hun Sen] would like the people to believe that and maybe he even wants to do that, but frankly, it is not enough to promote from within and reshuffle an old card deck that has many torn cards, he said by email.

Who wants to do reform when the system itself remains the same? It is the same old wine in a new bottle. We need new wine!

Prime Minister Hun Sen last Monday lauded his reshuffle, saying it would contribute to economic development by improving the efficiency of his administration.

I just want to remind that even though you are old, you should bear a new work attitude, the premier said during a speech at a Phnom Penh hotel.

Theres no guarantee that there will always be positive change with a new face. However, the old faces adjusting their work attitude is something thats strong. This is the third time we have adjusted our budget, and the average economic growth is now 7.7 percentand in the last 10 years it has been 8.8 percent.

If the people arent changing, how can there be economic growth?

Ou Virak, director of local research center Future Forum, countered that minor personnel changes did not represent the deep reform needed in Cambodias government. In Cambodia, theres no reform, theres only reshuffling, he told VOA Khmer.

However, Virak cautioned, Myanmar is a very different case.

Even though there is a regime change in Burma, the nation still faces many challenges and is not a model for Cambodia.

The challenge is that the military still hold power in important ministries, such as the Ministry of Interior. This is a formula which protects the interests of the military in Burma.

In some ways, Cambodia, which officially transitioned to democracy 1993, was ahead of Burma, which still faces tough challenges including ongoing conflicts with ethnic minorities, he said. Cambodia has moved forward. Its older than Burma, said Virak.
Afghanistan's security chief is directly blaming neighboring Pakistans military intelligence agency for being behind the Talibans expanded insurgent activities in his country.

Briefing lawmakers Monday in the lower house of the national parliament, Massoud Andarabi, the acting head of the National Directorate of Security, warned that the Islamist insurgent group is determined to continue and intensify its violent campaign in the coming Afghan warmer months.

Intelligence agency ISI is completely supporting them (the Taliban) and encouraging them to continue the Afghan war and capture territory, he alleged, referring to Pakistan militarys Inter-Services Intelligence.

Afghanistan and Pakistan, with the support of the United States and China, have been trying to arrange direct peace talks between the Kabul government and the Taliban and an initial meeting was expected to take place earlier this month in Islamabad.

Taliban rejects dialogue

But the insurgent group refused to attend and its fugitive leader, Mullah Akhtar Mansour, has instead recently asked Taliban fighters to prepare for a decisive battle this summer to take advantage of battlefield victories over the past year.

Speaking separately to a meeting of civil society groups in Kabul Monday, Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai suggested that Islamabad was supposed to take action against Taliban leaders sheltering in Pakistani areas if they refused to come to the negotiating table.

But it seems the assurance that we were given by Pakistan have not yet been delivered or have not yet been met, said Karzai, who is also the chief peace negotiator of the Afghan government.



Karzai says that the Afghan government plans to approach Chinese and US interlocutors in the four-nation group to discuss certain actions Pakistan needs to take.

If, collectively, all of us decide that certain groups are not going to negotiate and if we deem them as irreconcilable, then very specific action must be taken to deal with them. Thus far, we have yet to see full sincerity and we need to make sure that we further come together and discuss some of these issues, Karzai asserted.

Pakistani officials were not available immediately for their reaction to the Afghan spy chiefs allegations or assertions made by Karzai.

Allegations against ISI

Afghan leaders have long accused ISI of interfering in their internal political and security affairs.

But internationally-backed efforts to ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and encourage them to cooperate in ending the Afghan war have in recent months led to a reduction in mutual allegations and eased tensions.

Afghan officials say senior Taliban leaders are sheltering and directing the insurgency from their sanctuaries in the neighboring country.

Afghan intelligence chief Massoud spoke shortly after rockets fired by Taliban fighters hit the compound of the newly-built parliament building, but caused no casualties, according to officials. A Taliban spokesman claimed it was behind the attack.





Meanwhile, government and insurgent officials confirmed fresh fighting in the northern province of Kunduz. Both sides claimed they inflicted heavy casualties on the other in Dashte Archi district.

A Taliban spokesman said Afghan forces backed by fighter planes and U.S. drones overnight attacked their positions and clashes continued on Monday. Afghan officials say air raids killed more than two dozen Taliban fighters.

There was no independent confirmation available immediately.

The United Nations and the U.S. military says the Taliban has captured more territory in 2015 than at any point since it was ousted from power in 2001.
The rejection Monday by Bangladeshs High Court of a 28-year-old petition in which some secular activists sought to scrap Islam as the state religion of the country has sparked mixed reactions in the Muslim-majority South Asian nation.

A three-judge panel threw out the petition as soon as the case opened, saying that, having never been registered with the authorities, the secular group has no right to file any such petition to the court.



Leaders of the minority communities expressed disappointment after the court refused to hear the petition.



It is sad that the court binned the petition without allowing the petitioners to present their arguments. This ruling will give a boost to the countrys Islamist forces and it is a sad day for all religious minorities in Bangladesh, Rana Dasgupta, general secretary of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council, told VOA.



However, Islamist groups, which recently staged demonstrations and threatened a nationwide protest if Islam was dropped as the countrys state religion, say that they are happy with Mondays ruling.



Leaders of the Islamist group Hefajat-e-Islam (Hel) said that the latest ruling will help curb the spread of anti-Islam ideologies in the country.



Most Muslims in Bangladesh want Islam to remain the countrys state religion. If the High Court decided to scrap Islam as the state religion, Muslims across the whole country would have erupted in rage, Maulana Anwar Hossain Rabbani, an HeI leader from Chittagong, said to VOA.

Islam Made State Religion



After Bangladesh won independence from Pakistan in 1971, it was declared a secular country.



In 1988, military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad declared Islam the state religion in attempt to seek mass support during a campaign by major political parties to oust him from power.

Soon afterwards, a group of 15 secular activists filed a petition arguing that recognition of Islam as the state religion conflicts with Bangladeshs secular charter and discriminates against religious minorities.



Although Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina re-introduced secularism as the political standard in the country in 2011, she let Islam remain the state religion.

Last Friday, thousands of HeI activists took to the streets in Dhaka protesting against the High Courts move to hear the petition. Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), the largest Islamist party of the country, called for a day-long strike on Monday demanding rejection of the petition.



After Mondays ruling came through, HeI and JeI leaders said the court was aware of the Muslim sentiment and so it chose to reject the petition.

Ninety percent of the population of the country is Muslim. We knew that the government would not take the risk to scrap Islam as the state religion. We have been proved right, Noor Hossain Qashmi, a Dhaka-based HeI leader, said to VOA.



He added that Mondays ruling in no way poses any threat to non-Muslims in Bangladesh.

Islam preaches Muslims to treat their non-Muslim neighbors well. The religious minorities in Bangladesh have not faced any discrimination in Bangladesh in the past decades while Islam has remained the state religion. They have nothing new to fear about now, Qashmi said.

Ruling to Boost Islamists



Although Bangladeshs state religion has been Islam, the constitution guarantees the practice of other religions in peace and harmony.

However, in recent times, Bangladesh has seen a series of attacks against religious minorities, atheist bloggers and foreigners. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for most of those attacks. However, the government says domestic Islamist groups backed by the opposition parties are responsible for the attacks.



Mondays ruling disappointed many religious minority leaders who believe it could encourage more Islamist attacks against minorities in the country.



In their letters, the Islamists said to our church leaders that Bangladesh would be ruled by Sharia law. As they threatened to kill our leaders, in some cases they also said that only Muslims would live in Bangladesh, William Proloy Samadder, organizing secretary of the Bangladesh Christian Association, said to VOA.



Mondays ruling has surely come as a shot in the arm for many of those Islamists. It is indeed frightening for all religious minorities.
A man widely reported to be a main suspect in last week's deadly Brussels terrorist attacks has been released because of a lack of evidence.

Belgium's federal prosecutor said Monday authorities had no justification to hold the man, identified only as as Faycal C. Before his release, Faycal C. faced preliminary charges of "taking part in a terrorist group, terrorist murder, and attempted terrorist murder."

Media reports suggested his name was Faycal Cheffou and that he was believed to be the third individual seen in an airport security camera footage alongside the two men who blew themselves up there.

It is not clear whether investigators believe he could be the man seen in the grainy CCTV photo, taken moments before the blast.

Earlier Monday, police released more airport surveillance footage and asked the public for help in identifying the man, who was wearing a hat and a white jacket.

All three men in the footage were pushing suitcases, believed to be filled with explosives, through the airport departure hall. Two of the men were killed in the blasts. The third man, whose bomb failed to explode, has been the subject of an intense manhunt.

The attacks, which took place around the same time as an attack on the Brussels metro killed 35 people and wounded around 300 others.

Authorities have carried out repeated raids in and around the capital, in an attempt to disrupt what appears to be a tight-knit and expansive terrorist network.
The 25th anniversary of the first Burmese refugees settling in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is especially sweet for Minn Myint Nan Tin. It coincides with her adopted city, now home to some 10,000 Burmese, becoming a Friendship City with Mawlamyine, the fourth largest city in Myanmar.

"For me it is a dream come true, especially I have a chance to have people who care about us and also the country I love both meet," said the co-founder of the Burmese Advocacy Center.

Minn was a key player in bringing the project to Fort Wayne, home to the largest Burmese population outside Myanmar. The Friendship City program falls under the umbrella of Sister Cities, but is a less formal arrangement.

Sister Cities officials in Fort Wayne felt the time was right to establish relations. Myanmar held a free and open election in November, and the National League for Democracy  led by Aung San Suu Kyi  swept to victory. It has just formed the country's first fully elected civilian government in half a century.

A lot has changed for the refugees, too. Several have started their own businesses  including 13 grocery stores, 3 restaurants, 2 hair salons, and a car dealership. Fort Wayne Sister Cities president, Dorothy Kittaka, notes that a generation of children has grown up speaking English  and many Burmese have become U.S. citizens.

"So this is a place where they're thriving, she said. And why not go back and see what we can do to connect with what they left?"

Working together

In February, nine members of the Fort Wayne community, including Sister Cities Vice President Tom Herr, made the first official visit to Mawlamyine. In addition to signing the agreement, the delegation visited schools, hospitals and religious institutions to see how the cultures might learn and benefit from one another.

"They need a lot of help," Herr observed, "and I think they maybe look toward us to help them with this new period in their history."

The group has already identified several areas in which it can help: from helping to bring submersible pumps for wells and solar energy to the developing country, to donating new equipment for the local hospital to starting an English as a second language program.

Fort Wayne has four Sister Cities, and Kittaka says the program promotes international understanding through the development of personal relationships.

"This is where it starts, she said, with people going and having this experience with the home stays. Going to their schools, seeing their land, how people are people all over. Connect one person at a time."

As committee chair, Minn is already working on setting up an additional visit to Myanmar at the end of this year, followed by a student exchange in 2017. She hopes that by that time, the Friendship agreement will have blossomed into a full Sister Cities program, further connecting her new home with her old.
U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan visited Moscow at the beginning of March, it was revealed Monday.

News of the CIA chiefs visit to the Russian capital was first made public on Monday by a Russian foreign ministry spokesman and subsequently confirmed by the CIA.

Its no secret that Brennan was here, the Interfax news agency quoted foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Syromolotov as telling journalists in Moscow.

He added that the visit was not linked to Moscows decision to start withdrawing military forces from Syria, which President Vladimir Putin announced on March 14.

Dean Boyd, director of the CIAs Office of Public Affairs, confirmed Monday that Brennan visited Moscow.

"Director Brennan traveled to Russia in early March to emphasize with Russian officials the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria, said Boyd.

He added that Brennan also reiterated the U.S. governments consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria, and the need for Assads departure in order to facilitate a transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people.

Foreign ministry spokesman Syromolotov was quoted as saying that Brennan, while in Moscow, visited the Federal Security Service (FSB), Russias main security agency, and somewhere else, but not the foreign ministry.

Russias Tass state news agency quoted President Vladimir Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, as saying on Monday that Brennan had not met with anyone in the Kremlin recently.

VOA National Security Correspondent Jeff Seldin contributed to this story.
A team of Pakistani investigators is in India to probe a deadly terror attack on an Indian airbase earlier this year that New Delhi has blamed on Pakistan-based militants. The assault, in which seven Indian soldiers died, set back efforts to resume talks between the rivals, but the joint probe is being seen as a sign of cooperation.

Indian investigators briefed five Pakistani officials Monday in New Delhi about key evidence collected so far about the January 2 attack in which six gunmen stormed the strategic defense facility at Pathankot, about 50 kilometers from the border with Pakistan.

New Delhi says evidence it has gathered points to the involvement of the banned Islamist group Jaish-e-Mohammad.

This is the first time Pakistani intelligence officials are in India to investigate a militant strike on Indian soil.

On Tuesday, the investigators, who include officials from Pakistans military intelligence and police, will get limited access to the Pathankot air base. Amid some controversy over the officials gaining entry to an Indian military installation, Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar said he has instructed that the crime scene should be barricaded, visually blocked or obstructed and external entry should be given.

The Pakistani investigators will question witnesses, but New Delhi has declined them permission to talk to security personnel.

Pakistan offered to send the team after India shared information, including telephone numbers of the handlers who were directing the gunmen.

Huge step

Rana Banerji, a former top official at India's external intelligence arm - the Research and Analysis Wing - said the probe represents a huge step forward in counterterrorism efforts.

We should try and make this particular effort by Pakistan and a collective attempt by both countries a success. We should make all efforts to provide the necessary information the Pakistani investigators would seek, he said.

Pakistans initiative to send a special team and its detention of several members of the Jaish-e-Mohammad group in the days after the attack was seen as an effort to not let the attack derail ties.



Banerji, a specialist on Pakistan and militant groups, points out the larger question is how both countries should cooperate in counterterrorism.

Both sides now should realize that there is no gain from continuing confrontation on these issues, posing hurdles and obstacles, he said.

The visit of the Pakistani team comes days before a likely meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the fourth Nuclear Security Summit in Washington. An unexpected stop by Modi in Lahore in December had led to a thaw in ties, but the initiative was set back by the Pathankot attack, which came just 10 days later.
A British diplomat in Turkey has come under fire for tweeting a selfie he took at the Istanbul trial of two journalists accused of espionage.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan was quoted by the state-run Anadolu news agency as expressing his displeasure with a photo of British Consul General Leigh Turner standing with one of the reporters.

The two journalists, Can Dundar, the editor-in-chief of the Cumhuriyet newspaper, and his coworker Erdem Gul, are accused of trying to topple the government after posting a video they said shows members of the Turkish intelligence agency shipping arms into Syria in 2014.

"The consul general of a certain country went to the trial of a journalist charged with espionage, to support him. Moreover he gets a picture taken cheek to cheek (with the journalist) and had it published," Anadolu agency quoted Erdogan as saying. "And he does not stop at that, on social media he says things like 'Turkey needs to decide what kind of country it will be', words that exceed their intended meaning."

The president added that Turner was in the country due to the generosity and hospitality of the Turkish government.

"If this person could still go on working here that's because of our generosity and hospitality. If it were another country they wouldn't let a diplomat who exhibits this kind of behavior to stay there a day more,"said Erdogan, according to Anadolu.
Abel Wabela, 29, and eight other bloggers and freelance journalists spent more than a year and a half in prison. They were acquitted five months ago, but life has not been easy since.

"We cannot go abroad, Wabela said, getting a job is very difficult. We are not allowed to work, not allowed to move."

Wabela previously worked at Ethiopian Airlines as an engineer, but it will not take him back. His left ear is no longer functional, he says, due to mistreatment in prison.

In addition, the bloggers' passports have been confiscated.

Back in court

Wabela was one of six bloggers and three affiliated freelance journalists who were arrested in April 2014. They were accused under the anti-terrorism law of using social media to incite violence in Ethiopia.

Although all the bloggers and journalists were acquitted, the prosecutor appealed their release. For that reason, they have to appear Tuesday in Ethiopia's Supreme Court.

Atnaf Berahane says that even though he has been out of prison for five months, he lives in a state of fear.

"After my release I basically do nothing, because I know that every move I make will be traced, Berahane said. I am afraid that I may go to prison. The appeal is going on, so the appeal is like a chain to me right now. I am preparing myself for prison."

Imprisonment called unacceptable

Ethiopia is frequently criticized by human rights organizations on its press freedom record. The government states that those imprisoned are criminals using journalism as a cover.

Zone 9 is a reference to an Ethiopian state prison with eight zones; the bloggers use Zone 9 to indicate the larger "prison" they feel makes up the rest of the country.

Africa researcher Kerry Paterson of the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists says the possible return of the bloggers to jail is unacceptable and a huge blow to press freedom in Ethiopia.

"The Zone 9 bloggers, their tagline has always been that they blog because they care, Paterson said. These are young people who are deeply committed to seeing a safer, freer, better, more democratic Ethiopia, and who have faced repression and crackdowns on every turn."

Despite the belief by the bloggers that their future in Ethiopia is bleak and uncertain, Wabela, Berahane and the others are still blogging. The decision by Ethiopia's Supreme Court on the appeal will mean they either must go back to prison, or can continue writing.
Alongside a neighborhood best known for being home to some of the Brussels and Paris bombers, is an old barracks-turned-refugee-camp with handmade signs pasted over a poster on the red brick wall.

They say things like No no terrorism and We flee war and we find terror.

In trying to make sense of last week's Brussels attack that killed 35 people and wounded more than 300 others, some analysts say the isolation of Muslims in neighborhoods like Molenbeek played a role in radicalizing some Belgian youth of foreign decent.

But asylum-seekers living in the former military barracks nearby say, as newcomers on a continent increasingly hostile to Muslims, they wouldn't choose isolation.

Its not that they are afraid they will somehow be magically radicalized against their will, but they want to stave off growing anti-Islamic sentiment by getting to know people and studying local languages.

I just want to share my feelings with people and say that I am against terrorism, said 25-year-old Mustafa Mohammed, an Iraqi refugee, at a vigil on Saturday. The temporary memorial, decorated with flags from all over the world has become a symbol of international solidarity with the victims of the bombings.

Despite an outpouring of sympathy from Islamic communities in Brussels, fear of people who appear to be from the Middle East and North Africa has also increased since the attacks in Paris that killed 130 people last year, adds Mohammed.

Sometimes when I walk, people look at me like I want to bomb myself, said Mohammed.

The next day, at the same memorial, scores of right-wing protesters storm in shouting anti-Islamic slogans and saluting Nazi style. Already in the area, Mohammed joins mourners on the stairs, cheering the police and the army as they push back the protest with water guns and rows of security forces in riot gear.

A Belgian woman paints his cheek in black, yellow and red, the colors of Belgiums flag. The growth of anti-immigration and anti-Islam movements in Europe is frightening, he said, but support from other segments of society is equally heartening.

After the attack, people start to understand terrorism, he said. I was afraid people would say You are Muslim, you are a terrorist. Go out.

Brussels attackers weren't refugees



After the Brussels attack, several Western leaders called for tighter restrictions on refugees, despite the fact that none of the identified attackers was a refugee.

In Germany, the Interior Minister called for sanctions against refugees that do not sufficiently assimilate. Poland's president announced he supports a government decision to renege on a deal to take in thousands of refugees. And American presidential candidate Ted Cruz called for a freeze on taking in refugees from areas impacted by Islamic State or al-Qaida as well as patrols of Muslim neighborhoods.

For refugees and other migrants, the onslaught of fear seems bizarre. So far, the accused attackers in Brussels, like those accused of the November attacks in Paris, have been born and raised in Europe.

And no one hates Islamic State (IS) militants more than people that fled the Middle East, say some refugees, who gave up everything just to get out alive. Additionally, no one is more sympathetic to victims, they add, because they know how it feels to live in a place where innocent people are killed in attacks.

We dont want this for anyone, not just for us, says 22-year-old Mohammad, who months earlier fled IS militants who killed his father and brother. Whats happened here is what is happening in our countries.

Earlier that day, relatives at home told him American-led coalition bombs intended to fight IS struck a university, killing children and other civilians.

Despite the growth of anti-Islamic political groups in Europe, Mohammad said Brussels remains largely friendly. Its an international city, he said. I dont feel like a stranger.

Assimilate where?

For many refugees in Europe, the first challenge is language. In Belgium, there are two main languages, French and Dutch. Which language you study determines where you will work and live.

The Dutch-speaking Flemish areas are reputed to have more work and the French-speaking areas are reputed to be more welcoming to foreigners. However, choosing a language to study is a toss-up, said Mustafa Mohammed, at the memorial after the near-riot died down.

The trick is learning the language as soon as possible. Somali people are smart, he explains. They start studying Dutch in two days after they arrive.

Some groups of refugees are more likely to assimilate faster than others, he adds. Groups coming from modern urban areas adapt more quickly, especially if they already speak English. Other groups, sharing no common language with people on the streets, remain deeply isolated, adapting to neither European food or lifestyles.

In other parts of Europe, refugee housing is often deep in the countryside, and asylum-seekers complain that they want to assimilate, but they rarely see local people to talk to.

For his part, Mohammed is studying French because he wants to stay in Brussels, a mostly French city.

Brussels, he said, is life.
The Saudi-led coalition fighting Shi'ite rebels in Yemen said Monday it released 109 Yemeni detainees in exchange for nine Saudis who were being held.

A coalition statement did not give details on where or how the Saudis were detained, but said the Yemenis had been held near the Saudi border.

Shi'ite Houthi rebels seized the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, in September 2014, and in March of last year pushed south to the port city of Aden in an offensive that sent President Abdu Rabu Mansour Hadi fleeing to Saudi Arabia.

The Saudis responded by organizing the coalition to conduct airstrikes against the Houthis, and later the conflict included pro-Hadi ground troops battling the rebels and some violence along the Saudi-Yemen border.

The conflict has left more than 6,000 people dead in the poorest Arab nation.

Another 2 million Yemenis have been displaced and 21 million of Yemen's 27 million people need some form of humanitarian or protection assistance.

The United Nations announced last week that the warring parties have agreed to a nationwide truce beginning April 10 with face-to-face peace talks set to follow on April 18 in Kuwait.
Seven suspected Somali pirates are set to go on trial Tuesday in France in connection with the 2011 hijacking of a French yacht in the Gulf of Aden. The defendants are accused of killing the lone male aboard the catamaran and kidnapping his wife, who survived the ordeal and was rescued.

The suspects, 25- to 32-years-old, face possible life prison terms if convicted by the Paris court.

Investigators say the couple aboard the yacht, Christian and Evelyne Colombo, had departed the Yemen port of Aden in early September 2011, setting sail for Oman on a leg of a round-the-world voyage.

A short while later, a German frigate patrolling the pirate-infested waters detected a distress signal and found the bullet-riddled yacht empty with blood on its decks. Several days later, the Spanish military raided another vessel in the area, freeing Evelyne Colombo, killing two suspected kidnappers and taking the others into custody.

Officials say Colombo told her rescuers that the pirates had killed her husband and thrown his body into the sea. It was never found.

The seven surviving suspects have remained in French custody since the rescue. Their trial is expected to last two weeks.

Since 2012, there has been a dramatic drop in pirate attacks in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden -- narrow waterways bordered by Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia and Yemen.

Analysts attribute the reduction to international naval patrols, and to the use of heavily armed private security operators hired by international shipping companies to repel attackers before they can board their huge vessels.
The government of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir says it has never used children in armed conflicts. But, Information Minister Ahmed Bilal says some of the rebels fighting against the government have been using child solders.

This came after Sudan and the United Nations Sunday signed the Action Plan to protect children from violations in armed conflict. Bilal said the only mistake Sudan made was not signing the action plan earlier.

He said his government has evidence that some of the rebels have used child soldiers. "Maybe eight or seven years ago, we arrested about 83 of the children. We didnt bring them to court because they were under age, and they are still using the children," Bilal said.

In the past, the United Nations has accused both rebels and the government of recruiting child soldiers.

Several years ago, one rebel group - Justice and Equality Movement - signed an agreement allowing U.N. visits to JEM bases to verify the group did not have child soldiers.

A release put out Sunday from the office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict said Sudans signing of the Action Plan means that all seven countries whose national security forces are listed by the secretary-general for recruitment and use of children have committed to the objective Children, not Soldiers - a global campaign to end and prevent the recruitment and use of children by governments in conflicts.

Meanwhile, Monday is the deadline given by the African Union High-Level Implementation Panel for opposition groups in Sudan, including the Justice and Equality Movement and the National Umma party to sign a roadmap calling for an end to the wars in Blue Nile, Darfur, and South Kordofan.

The opposition groups have not signed because they said the roadmap legitimizes the ongoing dialogue, which they say is entirely controlled by the government.

Information Minister Bilal said although Khartoum had reservations, still it signed the framework because it is committed to peace.
Syria's army says the recapture of Palmyra will be a launching point for expanded operations against the Islamic State group, while the country's antiquities chief declared the already historic site will carry even greater significance as a survivor of the militants' campaign.

Backed by Russian airstrikes, pro-Syrian forces reclaimed control of Palmyra after a 10-month Islamic State occupation that included the destruction of several monuments dating back nearly 2,000 years.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the offensive left 400 militants dead along with more than 180 pro-government fighters. President Bashar al-Assad hailed it as an "important achievement, and fresh proof of the efficiency of the Syrian army and its allies in fighting terrorism."

Damage assessment



State media said experts will be in Palmyra in the coming days to assess the damage done by the militants who have destroyed relics they deemed idolatrous in places they seized during the past two years in both Syria and Iraq.

Antiquities chief Maamoun Abdulkarim vowed to rebuild what Islamic State destroyed, including the Arch of Triumph and the Temple of Baalshamin. But he said other monuments in the Roman-era city were in good condition.

"A unique symbolism is now added to the world-famous historical city after having defied terrorism," said Abdulkarim, according to the state-run SANA news agency.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he was encouraged by Syria's plans to protect and restore Palmyra.

"This ISIS and extremists, terrorists, they have been not only killing brutally people, they've been destroying the human civilization's heritages -- thousands-year-long heritages -- which should be a common asset of whole humanity even though one may belong to Syria or elsewhere," Ban said, using an acronym for Islamic State.

WATCH: Aerial footage of Palmyra, Syria



IS flees

The remaining militants fled Palmyra to the east toward Deir Ezzor where they control a string of territory extending north through their de facto capital in Raqqa to the Turkish border and south to Iraq.

By seizing Palmyra, the Syrian government opened up the 100 kilometers of desert between there and Deir Ezzor.

The takeover of Palmyra is the latest in a series of setbacks for Islamic State. Iraq's army three months ago drove the extremist group out of the city Ramadi in neighboring Iraq. The Iraqi army also announced this week the start of a major offensive to retake the city of Mosul.



In Photos: Ancient City of Palmyra
A diplomatic dispute between Ankara and its Western allies continues to grow over the presence of senior foreign diplomats at the trial of two Turkish journalists. Turkey's Justice and Foreign ministries are accusing the diplomats of interference in Turkeys judiciary.

"Unacceptable," tweeted Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag, irked by the presence of foreign diplomats at Fridays trial of journalists Can Dundar and Erdem Gul.

Consular representatives from many of Turkeys key Western allies were in the courtroom. If convicted, the journalists face life imprisonment for articles accusing the government of arms smuggling to Syrian jihadists.

The large turnout of senior diplomats was widely interpreted as a show of support for Dundar and Gul, whose trial has been strongly criticized internationally.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry also expressed concern Monday and said it had lodged formal complaints.

The criticism comes after President Recep Tayyip Erdogan strongly criticized his allies Saturday.

Speaking about the consuls-general in Istanbul who attended the trial, he asked, "Who are you? What business do you have there?" Diplomacy has a certain propriety and manners he said, referring to the diplomats. "This is not your country."

Turkeys dominant pro-government media echoed those sentiments. One newspapers headline read, Crusader Unity for Journalists, while another said, Invasion of the Courtroom.

Move seen as pandering

Images and rhetoric of Western imperialism threatening Turkey play well with Erdogans religious-nationalist base, says political columnist Semih Idiz of Turkeys Cumhuriyet newspaper and Al Monitor website.



"I think it's mainly for his own supporters, to drum up support for himself in Turkey. He is still pushing for a constitutional change, to make him an executive president. And he is pandering to his constituents' populist sentiments, and this kind of thing also plays into the nationalist sentiment. They are completely taken by it; they have no doubts about this (what Erdogan says) whatsoever, Idiz says.

The diplomatic spat comes amid already strained relations between Ankara and its Western allies over growing concerns for human rights and democracy.

Turkey, which borders Syria and Iraq, remains a crucial ally in the fight against the Islamic State and in stemming the flood of refugees into Europe. Columnist Idiz says the dispute likely will only add to already existing concerns about the president.

"He is clearly not popular in the West and is not doing much to help raise confidence in the West; but, they will maintain their attention and focus. Prime Minister [Ahmet] Davutoglu, quite on the contrary, is going on about a new chapter in Turkish-Western and EU relations. He even has repeated a number of times recently that Turkey is a European country and all that," Idiz says.

Davutoglu is increasingly being presented in Western circles and by domestic critics of the president as a voice of reason in Ankara. The diplomatic tension is likely to add to that view, analysts point out; but, they say the prime minister remains an isolated figure, with Erdogans iron grip on the ruling AK Party and with most government ministers deferring to him.
The United States is providing an additional $20 million to Europe to aid international efforts to respond to the migrant crisis.

The State Department issued a statement Monday, saying the money will support the U.N. and the International Federation of Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies in providing protection, shelter and other types of assistance throughout Europe.

The new funding announcement will bring the United States' total humanitarian aid contributions for the migrant crisis to almost $44 million since it started last year. Around $17.5 million will be used to help implement the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Regional Refugee and Migrant Response Plan for Europe.

Specifically, the money will be used to create arrangements and manage newly arrived migrants, enhance counseling, and increase communication between governments and migrants on how to migrate legally.

The rest, about $2.5 million, will be used for Greece's recent emergency appeal and for migrant women and girls in southeastern Europe. It will be used to provide authorities in Greece with rape kits and help to prevent and respond to gender-based violence throughout the region.

The announcement comes just a week after the European Union and Turkey reached what leaders on both sides called a "landmark agreement" to deal with migrants who have illegally entered Greece through Syria and elsewhere.

The deal, which took effect March 28, will see all migrants who entered Greece illegally sent to Turkey after they are registered and their claims for asylum in Europe are considered. For its part, the EU will resettle thousands of migrants who fled Turkey and legally sought refuge across its 28 member states.

Turkey, which already shelters around 3 million Syrian refugees, will receive close to $6.7 billion to help deal with the crisis if it can meet a number of preconditions outlined in the deal.

Flawed, illegal and immoral

While most Turkish and EU leaders lauded the deal as a way to help stem the tide of the worst refugee crisis since World War II, critics say it uses the migrants as political pawns.

Amnesty International called Turkey an unsafe country for migrants and said the plan to return asylum-seekers would turn out to be "flawed, illegal and immoral." Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel accused Turkey of blackmail.

The UNHCR, which was not a part of the EU-Turkey deal, also expressed concerns over the agreement, saying that it does not safeguard the rights of those seeking asylum. The UNHCR had been assisting Greek authorities by receiving, assisting and registering new migrants, but said last week it would discontinue those operations.

"Whether or not it violates anything is still to be judged upon implementation.  All we can say today is that those safeguards are not in place," Melissa Fleming, a UNHCR spokeswoman, told VOA.

So far, more than 1.2 million migrants have traveled to Europe  most through Greece and Italy  seeking asylum since the crisis began in January 2015. Thousands of others have drowned attempting to cross the dangerous Mediterranean Sea.

The United States has resettled around 2,200 Syrian refugees since the conflict in Syria began in 2011. The Obama administration has announced its commitment to resettling at least 10,000 Syrian refugees in the U.S.
The U.S. and Turkey are discussing plans to expand cooperation in order to put greater pressure on Islamic State (IS) militants, said U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday during a meeting with his Turkish counterpart, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu.

"We all have an interest in taking out Daesh, [al] Nusra terrorist organizations as fast as possible and restoring stability to the region," Kerry said, using another name for IS.

Turkey, a NATO ally, is also part of the multi-national coalition that has been battling IS militants in Iraq and Syria.

However, the U.S. and Turkey have been at odds over the U.S. support of Syrian Kurdish militants that Ankara says are aligned with the Kurdistan Worker's Party (PKK), a terrorist group fighting for autonomy in Turkey.

On Monday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Turkish security forces had captured or killed more than 5,000 Kurdish rebels aligned with the PKK since July.

He commented ahead of a visit to Washington this week to take part in an international nuclear summit.

Another focal point for the U.S. and Turkey is the Syrian refugee crisis. About 2.7 million Syrians have sought refuge in neighboring Turkey.

"Turkey has been doing its best to host some migrants," Cavusoglu said. "We have spent more than $10 billion.

Earlier Monday, the U.S. announced plans to provide an additional $20 million dollars in aid to help relief organizations assist refugees in Europe and the Middle East.

The State Department said some of that funding would be directed toward relief efforts in Turkey.
President Robert Mugabe is on an official visit to Japan where he is meeting with his counterpart, representatives of several business entities and the Japanese emperor. This is part of his Look East policy, which he adopted after he was ditched by the West that accused him of gross human rights violations and election rigging.

Zimbabwes Mpilo General Hospital has reportedly shut down its Casualty Department, raising fears that some people may die without accessing health facilities.

People with disabilities urge the government to enactment of laws that ensure their economic empowerment on an equal basis with other Zimbabweans.

Ordinary Zimbabweans facing economic hardships are increasingly making use of social media, to create, as well as share jokes, memes and videos - including the not so flattering - about national figures and topical national issues.

Zimbabwe clash with Swaziland in the Africa Nations Cup following a 1-1 draw last week. If Zimbabwe win, they will be on top of the Group L log, boosting their chances of taking part in the 2017 cup finals.

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.

Tonight on Livetalk our hosts will be talking with listeners and experts about the Warriors clash with Swaziland in the Africa Nations Cup. Participate by sending your messages on our WhatsApp number 001 202 465 0318. The number again 001 202 465 0318. Stay tuned!!!!!!
Pakistan is mourning the death of at least 70 people in Sundays Taliban suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore targeting Christians. Hospital officials say up to 30 children were among the dead.

The blast occurred in a crowded public park and wounded more than 300 people. Many of the victims are from the minority Christian community who were in the park celebrating Easter.

A military spokesman said Monday security agencies have conducted several operations based on initial leads and arrested a number of suspect terrorists and facilitators from areas in the provincial capital and two other cities, Multan and Faisalabad, of Punjab, the countrys most populous province. He shared no other details.

A spokesman for a breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing, saying it was aimed at Christians.

Witness accounts

Witnesses speaking to reporters Monday recounted how the blast rocked the park.

Ikram Arif said he was parking his motorcycle and was about to enter the park with a friend when they suddenly heard the sound of an explosion from inside.

"We rushed inside and saw bodies with blown up heads and legs. Many injured people, men, women, and children were lying there," he said, adding the first injured person he picked up was an infant of around six months old.

Eyewitness Mohammad Arshad criticized authorities for not ensuring proper security in and outside the park. "It was a very loud explosion and moments later we saw a pool of blood with bodies and injured lying here and there. There was no proper security arrangement here," he added.

Internationally condemned

The terrorist attack has been widely criticized by national and international leaders.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrived in Lahore Monday morning where he chaired a meeting of top civilian and security officials. While condemning the terrorist strike against innocent civilians, Sharif said it will not deter efforts to eliminate extremism and terrorism from Pakistan.

In a statement from National Security Council spokesman Ned Price, the United States condemned "in the strongest terms" the attack in Lahore, calling it a "cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has also released a statement strongly condemning the bombing and calling for the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice, consistent with human rights obligations.

He urged the Pakistani government to do its utmost to put in place protective measures to ensure the personal security of all individuals, including religious minority communities living in the country.

Authorities have increased security in parks and other public locations across Pakistan following the Lahore carnage.

Meanwhile, several hundred Islamist activists were still staging a protest near the parliament in Islamabad Monday morning and refusing to disperse until their demands are met.

Thousands of demonstrators had marched on the capital city late Sunday evening to protest against the hanging of a man charged with murdering a provincial governor because he had called for reforms in the blasphemy laws.

The protesters, mostly activists of Islamic parties, rallied against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri who gunned down Punjab's governor, Salman Taseer, in 2011 because the slain politician had called for reforms in the countrys Islamic law against blasphemy.

The demonstrators clashed with police and paramilitary forces while setting fire to private and government buildings.

The clashes wounded more than two dozen security personnel, prompting the government to deploy troops to protect the so-called Red Zone in Islamabad where mostly key official buildings, including parliament and foreign diplomatic missions, are located.

The protesters were demanding, among other things, assurances that the government will not introduce changes in the blasphemy laws. However, the deployment of troops acted as a deterrent and most of the crowd dispersed in the middle of the night.
The U.S. Capitol and the White House are on lockdown after gunshots were fired inside the Capitol Visitor Center, where tourists gather to take tours.

Capitol Police say a man who brandished a gun was taken into custody. One Capitol Police officer was reported wounded, but not seriously.

People inside the Capitol and the White House were told to shelter in place.

There was no reported incident at the White House.

Police cordoned off access to the Capitol. An ambulance was at the scene.

A tourist from the state of Ohio, Diane Bilo, told VOA on the grounds of the Capitol that her husband and children were locked down inside. She said police told everyone outside the complex to run away.

Congress is in recess for the Easter holiday, but it is a busy week for tourists in Washington. many of them have come to see the world renowned cherry blossoms that are now in full bloom.
Even as the frenzy of the U.S. presidential primaries seems to be slowing down, the fight for the Republican and Democratic nominations continues to escalate.

Democratic front-runner, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, was delivered a bruising blow by rival Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders Saturday when he swept caucuses in Washington, Hawaii and Alaska.

Those victories do not close the seemingly insurmountable lead Clinton has in the race - just under 300 pledged delegates. But they boosted the campaign momentum enough for Sanders to declare that he can now see a "path toward victory."

Democrats compete next on April 5 in Wisconsin and again April 9 in the sparsely populated state of Wyoming. Clinton is focusing on April 19 when voters in New York, the state she once represented as a senator, decide how to allocate their 291 delegates.

On the Republican side, the nomination fight between front-runner and billionaire businessman Donald Trump and Texas Senator Ted Cruz appears to have escalated into a full-fledged war of personal barbs.

The next major Republican primary is April 5 in Wisconsin. Some analysts predict that it may become the last stand for the third Republican candidate, Ohio Governor John Kasich.

The Republican chase for delegates will next focus on the the upcoming primaries in the northeast.

New York votes April 19, followed by Connecticut, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Rhode Island on April 26.

A candidate needs to win 1,237 delegates to win the Republican nomination outright. Otherwise there could be multiple voting rounds by convention delegates to determine a winner.
People with disabilities say economic and political empowerment is important because it enables them to live productive and dignified lives.

Thirty-four year old Masimba Kuchera is visually-impaired and walks with the aid of a white cane. Kuchera, who runs his own company in Harare, says there is need for legislation to reward companies that employ people with disabilities.

The government should give tax incentives to companies so that they employ a certain quota of people with disabilities so that those people are able to contribute to the economy and pay the other taxes that are available.

Kuchera says there should also be legislation to ensure government gives a certain quota of supply contracts to companies run by persons with disabilities.

His views are shared by Nigel Gweshe, a visually impaired music producer from Bulawayo, who says people with disabilities should be assisted to become employers through the enactment of pro-disability policies.

He says this is in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, which calls for their active participation in human, social and economic development of society.

Most of the help that is given to the disabled is food and shelter. We need a kick-start whereby you will be given materials or inputs to do your own things, to create employment like my studio I will be employing and recording artists as well.

FUNDING

Forty-four year old Tongai Chinhaire is also visually-impaired. The father of three makes a living through vending on the streets of Harare. He says there is need for policies that encourage funding for individuals with disabilities.

Currently the economy is down. If I am being given the unemployment benefit blind people can start from there. For example, one can go and buy and sell products, he will start from there. Remember a small leak sinks a big ship. So whatever I get from you I will be in a position to do something.

According to Harare provincial administrator Alfred Tome, there are policies that take care of people with disabilities but a lot needs to be done at the level of implementation.

We have created the constitution, but what is left is to translate that into reality and us leaders should be honest with ourselves. We should be patriotic and concerned about people living with disabilities. We need to walk the talk.

Senator Nyamayabo Mashavakure, who represents people with disabilities in the Senate, argues that disabled people should involve themselves in all activities at national and local level if society is to take them seriously. He was addressing a recent meeting in Harare for people with disabilities.

Include yourselves, empower yourselves, make yourself accessible to society, to national budgeting, to national programming. Specialise in yourself. Study yourself, represent yourself advocate your own concerns and your own issues.

EMPOWERMENT LAWS

Twenty-one year old Fungai Mutoko, who walks with the aid of crutches, recently completed her Ordinary Level studies in Zimbabwe. She says parliament should come up with laws that empower women with disabilities and also change public perception of such people.

We wont be seen as beggars because most people with disabilities walk the streets begging for money. If we start our own things we get respect because people dont really like to see you begging every day.

Aspiring actress, Nozipho Thusi, says parliament should seriously debate the plight of women with disabilities and ensure that measures are put in place to improve their livelihood.

Yes they have different talents, but they need someone who can empower them. If they have capital they can do sewing, plaiting hair and even singing. You can survive on singing alone if you have a disability.

Secretary for the disabled in the Zanu PF politburo, Joshua Malinga, says platforms have been created for the disabled to participate politically and economically, but the beneficiaries are taking a back seat.

You should be a shareholder and demanding many things. To a very positive party like Zanu PF we have created positions at almost every level at every organ of the party. You are not there, you are not organising yourself. Disabled people are 15 percent of the population of this country. You are a very important constituency. You are voters. Why should you vote if you get nothing.

According to the United Nations, 80% to 90% of persons with disabilities of working age in developing countries are not gainfully employed. The world body says social protection and quota systems can provide strong leverage for their economic empowerment.
Zimbabwes Health Ministry says it is committed to reducing mother-to-child HIV transmission from 7 percent to zero in the next two years and has put in place programs to ensure that commitment is realised.

Dr. Angela Mushavi, the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission and Pediatric HIV Care and Treatment coordinator in the Health Ministry, told Voice of America's Studio 7 that it is imperative for families, especially women, to go for early HIV testing.

Dr. Mushavi said the country was now in the preparatory stages of trying to get certification similar to Cuba, which was certified by the World Health Organisation as one of the countries in the world that has managed to reduce the number of new HIV transmission cases from mother to child to zero.

"We have seen some tremendous progress in Zimbabwe as we scale up our programs to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in much the same way as Cuba was declared the first country to eliminate new HIV infections by the World Health Organisation. We are now in the preparatory stage towards similar certification and the mother-to-child transmission rate is now at 7% and we need to work hard this year to get to less than 5% with our final goal being 0%," said Dr. Mushavi.

Dr. Mushavi said early testing and detection will ensure that expecting mothers with the virus are put on early treatment and have a chance to give birth to children who are HIV negative.

For Zimbabwe to have a chance of getting certification, the country has to provide 95% of all pregnant women with antenatal care services and when they present themselves to the clinics, health officials have to check 95% of them for HIV and those found positive are put on anti-retrovirals. The country to reach certification, 90% of those found with the virus should be on treatment.

"Right now we are working on the process indicators and will take about a year for us to get to those milestones, said Dr. Mushavi.

Dr. Mushavi urged women and their partners to know their HIV status and in cases where the mother tests positive, it was important to start antiretroviral drugs early.

"The importance of a pregnant woman knowing her HIV status is that if she happens to be HIV positive we have antiretroviral medications that we can give to her to prevent transmission of the virus from the mother to the baby. The HIV virus can be passed from a positive pregnant mother through birth, or breasting feeding and it is our hope to stop this by starting treatment early," said Dr. Mushavi.
President Robert Mugabe, who is on a five-day state visit to Japan, has pleaded with the East Asian countrys investors to do business with Harare.

Mr. Mugabe arrived in Japan Sunday after a stopover in Singapore where he regularly travels for medical attention.

At a joint press conference Monday with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, according to the Japan Times, President Mugabe invited Japanese companies to invest heavily in his mineral-rich country.

The president said, Zimbabwe doors are open to the Japanese investors and they should look forward to a mutually rewarding relationship with us.

In return, Mr. Abe pledged to give Zimbabwe about 5 million dollars to fund a road project. He also added that Japan will assist Zimbabwe in tackling the growing food crisis.

The two leaders are also expected to talk about reforms of the United Nations and the 6th Tokyo International Conference on African Development in Kenya in August. Earlier in the day, President Mugabe and his wife, Grace, met with Japanese Emperor Akihiti and Empress Michiko.

Economists though are warning that Mr. Mugabes call for foreign investment in Zimbabwe is being overshadowed by his cabinets decision to force foreign-owned companies that are not complying with the Indigenization Act to close shop by April 1st.

The law compels all foreign-owned to surrender a 51% stake to indigenous blacks. Economist Dr. Gift Mugano, a University of Zimbabwe lecture and Senior Economic Advisor to the Government of Zimbabwe under the Adam Smith International Zimbabwe Project, told VOA Studio 7 that Mr. Mugabes visit to Japan is significant.
Mpilo Central Hospital, one of Zimbabwes largest referral hospitals, shut down its Outpatient Department last week following industrial action by junior doctors.

Clinical director Dr. Solwayo Ngwenya, confirmed the development but played down the effects of the strike saying the institution will reopen Tuesday.

The hospital, which caters mainly for the southern region - Bulawayo, Midlands, Masvingo, Matabeleland North and South provinces - is also a training institution for doctors and nurses.

Those affected are mainly chronic ailment patients and others referred from various districts.

As the ongoing impasse between the Health Services Board and junior doctors over their contracts continues, the only doctor who was manning the department is said to have quit.

The Outpatient Department is expected to be open for business Tuesday though doctors said they were not going to sign the contracts.

The Health Services Board has just availed a contract for the junior doctors indicating that they will get a total salary package of $895 per month, including allowances, but the doctors have vowed not to take it arguing that it violates their rights as workers.

Studio 7 failed to reach Hospital Doctors Association president Fortune Nyamande and the health ministry for a comment.

The doctors are demanding, among other issues, clarity in their contracts relating to matters like repeating college classes and the period a lady doctor should be on maternity leave.

But Movement for Democratic Change spokesman Obert Gutu told VOA Studio 7 that the government should just give in to the doctors demands as it was the ordinary people who were now suffering.

As a labour-backed party we are very, very concerned by the reluctance by the Zanu PF government to give in to the very reasonable demands that are actually being put across by the junior doctors, Gutu said.

Gutu added that the junior doctors literally work their socks off for peanuts. He said his party is inclined towards protecting the interests of the workers, and these junior doctors need to be treated well.

So we call upon the government to seriously look into their very reasonable demands.
Todays broadcast features a report from Thierry Meyssan in Damascus, Syria, which can be summarized as follows:

The press of Europe and the United States is attempting to spread the idea that the withdrawal of part of the contingent of Russian military aircraft which had been assigned to bombing terrorist targets in Syria somehow came as a surprise, including to the Assad government in Damascus. In reality, there was no surprise whatsoever. It had been assumed that the Russian bombing campaign against the Syrian terrorist rebels was scheduled to end in the first week of January, at about the time of the Orthodox Christmas. At that time, President Assad visited Moscow and it was decided to extend the bombing campaign until mid March. This plan was confirmed for the Syrian government by the Russian Foreign Ministry as of March 1. Russian troops inside Syria were well aware of their departure date. Large Antonov military transports were used to move some equipment back to Russia, and flight plans for these aircraft were given four days in advance to the competent authorities. This is confirmed by Defense News, which quotes the Jordanian chief of staff saying that he was informed by Moscow and by the Syrian government. So there was no precipitate withdrawal, but rather a carefully planned and executed redeployment.

Especially important is the agreement reached by Presidents Obama and Putin about two or three weeks ago that the continued tenure of Turkish President Erdogan is intolerable, and that he should be removed from office before he can start a wider war. Russian and US weapons are currently flowing into Turkey for the purpose of speeding the departure of the dictator. Contacts are also being made with the Turkish political parties, the top generals of the Turkish military, and others to help bring down the dictator. The Turkish nationalists are turning against Erdogan. The PKK will also mobilize. Erdogans presidency is illegitimate because his most recent election victory was carried out with massive vote fraud.

Fighting inside Turkey on the level of a civil war is expected to begin during April. The beginning of the end for Erdogan will transform the entire Middle East situation.

Most of the larger cities in Syria will soon be free of terrorist rebels. This is likely to include Aleppo, Palmyra, and Idlib. ISIS/Daesh will only be able to maintain their presence in Raqqa in far northeast Syria, as well as in some parts of Iraq. It is expected that heavy fighting inside Turkey will tend to disrupt the logistics pipeline for the terrorist rebels inside Syria.

This hard line of Moscow and Washington towards Erdogan contrasts most sharply with the policy of the European Union (including Britain and France), which is offering tribute of 3 billion per year to Erdogan over the foreseeable future to get the Turkish president to house more Syrian refugees and to prevent them from crossing into Greece. Naturally, since Erdogan functions as the de facto commander of ISIS/Daesh, he could at any time order the total cessation of combat operations, and remove the main factor which is impelling civilians to flee from the terrorists in the combat zones. But he prefers to cash in, obtaining concessions like visa-free travel for Turks in the EU.

Obamas interview to the Atlantic Monthly is remarkable since it reads like the memoirs of a president who has already left office, and thus feels free to frankly speak his mind. His comments about King Salman of Saudi Arabia, Sarkozy, Cameron, and Erdogan are devastating. The message seems to be that these figures are being told to cooperate, or else they will be exposed for their machinations of recent years, and thus destabilized.

Prince Turki of Saudi Arabia, who sometimes acts as a spokesman for the Royal family, has issued a weak defense (see below) claiming that the Saudis do not support terrorism, and are loyal allies.

Obama has been quoted as saying that the Saudi royals are the worst in the world. The situation is complicated by the distinct possibility that the Saudis have obtained nuclear weapons from Pakistan.

Obamas Atlantic interview portrays Hillary Clinton as a relentless warmonger  Democratic primary voters should take note. The Washington think tanks and experts are frequently bought and paid for by the Sunni Arab states.

Here are some excerpts from Obamas interview, which appears in Jeffrey Goldberg, The Obama Doctrine: The U.S. president talks through his hardest decisions about Americas role in the world, Atlantic Monthly, April 2016:

Over the past year, John Kerry has visited the White House regularly to ask Obama to violate Syrias sovereignty. On several occasions, Kerry has asked Obama to launch missiles at specific regime targets, under cover of night, to send a message to the regime. The goal, Kerry has said, is not to overthrow Assad but to encourage him, and Iran and Russia, to negotiate peace.Obama has steadfastly resisted Kerrys requests, and seems to have grown impatient with his lobbying. In recent National Security Council meetings, Obamas strategy was occasionally referred to as the Tom Sawyer approach. Obamas view was that if Putin wanted to expend his regimes resources by painting the fence in Syria, the U.S. should let him. By late winter, though, when it appeared that Russia was making advances in its campaign to solidify Assads rule, the White House began discussing ways to deepen support for the rebels, though the presidents ambivalence about more-extensive engagement remained.

Obama would say privately that the first task of an American president in the post-Bush international arena was Dont do stupid shit. Obamas reticence frustrated [Samantha] Power and others on his national-security team who had a preference for action. Hillary Clinton, when she was Obamas secretary of state, argued for an early and assertive response to Assads violence. In 2014, after she left office, Clinton told me that the failure to help build up a credible fighting force of the people who were the originators of the protests against Assad  left a big vacuum, which the jihadists have now filled. When The Atlantic published this statement, and also published Clintons assessment that great nations need organizing principles, and?Dont do stupid stuff is not an organizing principle, Obama became rip-shit angry, according to one of his senior advisers. The president did not understand how Dont do stupid shit could be considered a controversial slogan. Ben Rhodes recalls that the questions we were asking in the White House were Who exactly is in the stupid-shit caucus? Who is prostupid shit?? The Iraq invasion, Obama believed, should have taught Democratic interventionists like Clinton, who had voted for its authorization, the dangers of doing stupid shit. (Clinton quickly apologized to Obama for her comments, and a Clinton spokesman announced that the two would hug it out on Marthas Vineyard when they crossed paths there later.).

Friday, August 30, 2013[:] .While the Pentagon and the White Houses national-security apparatuses were still moving toward war (John Kerry told me he was expecting a strike the day after his speech), the president had come to believe that he was walking into a trapone laid both by allies and by adversaries, and by conventional expectations of what an American president is supposed to do. In Situation Room meetings that followed the attack on Ghouta, only the White House chief of staff, Denis McDonough, cautioned explicitly about the perils of intervention. John Kerry argued vociferously for action.

[Samantha] Power sometimes argued with Obama in front of other National Security Council officials, to the point where he could no longer conceal his frustration. Samantha, enough, Ive already read your book, he once snapped. Biden, who ordinarily shared Obamas worries about American overreach, argued passionately that big nations dont bluff.

[Cameron of the UK and Saudi Ambassador Jubeir demanded an attack. But Germanys Merkel was opposed and refused to take part. When the British House of Commons also refused to go along, Obama paused.]

Obama also shared with McDonough a long-standing resentment: He was tired of watching Washington unthinkingly drift toward war in Muslim countries. Four years earlier, the president believed, the Pentagon had jammed him on a troop surge for Afghanistan. Now, on Syria, he was beginning to feel jammed again.

The prime minister of France, Manuel Valls, told me that his government was already worried about the consequences of earlier inaction in Syria when word came of the stand-down. By not intervening early, we have created a monster, Valls told me. We were absolutely certain that the U.S. administration would say yes. Working with the Americans, we had already seen the targets. It was a great surprise. If we had bombed as was planned, I think things would be different today. The crown prince of Abu Dhabi, Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, who was already upset with Obama for abandoning Hosni Mubarak, the former president of Egypt, fumed to American visitors that the U.S. was led by an untrustworthy president. The king of Jordan, Abdullah IIalready dismayed by what he saw as Obamas illogical desire to distance the U.S. from its traditional Sunni Arab allies and create a new alliance with Iran, Assads Shia sponsorcomplained privately, I think I believe in American power more than Obama does. The Saudis, too, were infuriated. They had never trusted Obamahe had, long before he became president, referred to them as a so-called ally of the U.S. Iran is the new great power of the Middle East, and the U.S. is the old, Jubeir, the Saudi ambassador in Washington, told his superiors in Riyadh.

Amid the confusion, a deus ex machina appeared in the form of the Russian president, Vladimir Putin. At the G20 summit in St. Petersburg, which was held the week after the Syria reversal, Obama pulled Putin aside, he recalled to me, and told the Russian president that if he forced Assad to get rid of the chemical weapons, that that would eliminate the need for us taking a military strike. Within weeks, Kerry, working with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, would engineer the removal of most of Syrias chemical-weapons arsenala program whose existence Assad until then had refused to even acknowledge.

This was the moment the president believes he finally broke with what he calls, derisively, the Washington playbook. I have come to believe that, in Obamas mind, August 30, 2013, was his liberation day, the day he defied not only the foreign-policy establishment and its cruise-missile playbook, but also the demands of Americas frustrating, high-maintenance allies in the Middle Eastcountries, he complains privately to friends and advisers, that seek to exploit American muscle for their own narrow and sectarian ends. By 2013, Obamas resentments were well developed. He resented military leaders who believed they could fix any problem if the commander in chief would simply give them what they wanted, and he resented the foreign-policy think-tank complex. A widely held sentiment inside the White House is that many of the most prominent foreign-policy think tanks in Washington are doing the bidding of their Arab and pro-Israel funders. Ive heard one administration official refer to Massachusetts Avenue, the home of many of these think tanks, as Arab-occupied territory. [Leon Panetta was another hawk.]

He described a relationship with Putin that doesnt quite conform to common perceptions. I had been under the impression that Obama viewed Putin as nasty, brutish, and short. But, Obama told me, Putin is not particularly nasty. The truth is, actually, Putin, in all of our meetings, is scrupulously polite, very frank. Our meetings are very businesslike. He never keeps me waiting two hours like he does a bunch of these other folks. Obama said that Putin believes his relationship with the U.S. is more important than Americans tend to think. Hes constantly interested in being seen as our peer and as working with us, because hes not completely stupid. He understands that Russias overall position in the world is significantly diminished. Obamas theory here is simple: Ukraine is a core Russian interest but not an American one, so Russia will always be able to maintain escalatory dominance there.

Right after Obamas reversal, Hillary Clinton said privately, If you say youre going to strike, you have to strike. Theres no choice.

Here is Prince Turkis attempted defense of the Kingdom:

A top Saudi Arabian intelligence chief said on Monday that President Barack Obama failed to appreciate all that the kingdom has done to stabilize the Middle East, fight terrorism and support American priorities, hitting back after the president called Middle Eastern governments free riders on US initiatives. You accuse us of fomenting sectarian strife in Syria, Yemen and Iraq, Turki al-Faisal, a Saudi prince and former ambassador to the United States and Britain, wrote in an open letter published Monday in the English-language Arab News. You add insult to injury by telling us to share our world with Iran, a country that you describe as a supporter of terrorism. Al-Faisals letter was a response to comments Obama made in a much-discussed interview with The Atlantic magazine in which Obama referred to the Saudis and other allies as free riders who push the United States to act but contribute little themselves. Obama has long been cooler toward the Saudis and other Arab allies than his predecessor, but his willingness to forcefully criticize them stunned many in Washingtons foreign policy establishment.
On the 11th January 2016, king Abdallah of Jordan took part in a Washington meeting with the members of three senatorial commissions (Intelligence, Foreign Affairs and Army). According to David Hearst - ex-journalist for the Scotsman, then the Guardian, and current chief editor of the Middle East Eye  who had been able to consult the minutes of the meetings, the king apparently accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of having organised the wave of migrants towards Europe, and to have deliberately included jihadists in their number.

Concerning Syria, the king apparently affirmed that Turkey is working for a solution based on religious belief, which goes against the efforts of Jordan.

The king apparently confirmed the responsibility of Turkey in the traffic of oil stolen by Daesh. Noting that the Turkish Army is training the Somali army, the king apparently accused Turkey of controlling the jihadist groups not only in Syria and Iraq, but also in Libya and Somalia.

Finally, the king apparently questioned the European promise [now implemented by the Summit of the 17th and 18th March] to pay 3 billion Euros to Turkey to help it deal with the refugee crisis. He noted the disproportionate character of this aid, implying that the Europeans were indirectly financing Turkish ambitions.
The special representative of the UN General Secretary for Syria, Staffan De Mistura, indicated during a Press conference on the 24th March 2016 that he had composed a document listing the 12 principles which will serve as a basis for the inter-Syrian negotiations in Geneva [1].

This document replaces the appendix to the plan for the total and unconditional capitulation of Syria  drawn up in 2012 by Volker Perthes group for the UN Director of Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman - Key Principles revealed during Consultations with Syrian Stake-holders.

During the summer of 2015, Steffan De Mistura agreed in writing that he would not attempt to apply the plan of his hierarchical superior, Jeffrey Feltman, but on the contrary, would negotiate peace between the parties. On the basis of this promise, Russia and Syria agreed not make the text of the plan public.

The new document, adopted under the control of the United States and Russia, resumes the demands of the Syrian Arab Republic and marks the end of the religious pretensions of Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
In August 2012, Google created an application for counting desertions from the Syrian Arab Army, as attested by an email from Jared Cohen, the director of Google Ideas, to State Secretary Hillary Clinton and her advisors William Burns, Jacob Sullivan and Alec Ross [1].

Later on, Google sold this application to the Qatari TV channel Al-Jazeera, which received a prize for the best technical innovation in on-line Media. The prize was awarded by a group founded by the British communications agency Drum Network, of which Google is a shareholder.

However, the results of the application were a disappointment  desertions from the Syrian Arab Army never rose above 25,000 - while, taking into account the violence of the war and the number of casualties, the number of absent without leave rose to 130,000 - which is why the application was withdrawn by Al-Jazeera.
It is too early to name with any certainty the sponsor of the attacks which struck Paris on the 13th November 2015, and Brussels on the 22nd March 2016. However, for the moment, only the elements which we are about to reveal offer a reasonable explanation.

* * *

Just after the death of the founder of Turkish Islamism, Necmettin Erbakan, and at the beginning of the Arab Spring, the Erdogan government concluded a secret agreement with France. According to a diplomat who has studied the document, it stipulated the conditions for the participation of Turkey in the wars against Libya (which had just started) and against Syria (which was to follow). France, represented by its Minister for Foreign Affairs, Alain Juppe, agreed in particular to deal with the Kurdish question without compromising the integrity of Turkish territory - a convoluted formula which signified that a pseudo-Kurdistan would be created elsewhere, to which the members of the PKK would be exiled. This project for ethnic cleansing, which is not new, had until that time been evoked only in Israeli military literature describing the new state between Syria and Iraq.

On the 31st October 2014, President Francois Hollande took the opportunity of an official visit by Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Paris to organise a secret meeting, at the Elysee, with the co-President of the Syrian Kurds, Salih Muslim. Betraying the Turkish Kurds and their leader Abdullah Ocalan, Salih Muslim agreed to become the President of this pseudo-Kurdistan which was to be created on the occasion of the overthrow of democratically elected President Bachar el-Assad.

This was during the battle of Kobane. For several months, the Syrian Kurds had been defending the city against Daesh. Their victory over the jihadists was to shake up the political chessboard  anyone who really wanted to fight the jihadists had to ally themselves with the Kurds. However, the Syrian Kurds only obtained their nationality at the beginning of the war  until then, they had been Turkish political refugees in Syria, chased from their country during the repression of the 1980s. At that time, the member states of NATO considered the PKK, the main Kurdish formation in Turkey, as a terrorist organisation. But from then on, they would distinguish between the bad Turkish PKK and the good Syrian YPG, despite the fact that these two organisations are closely related.

A dramatic turn of events - on the 8th February 2015, France changed its previous position. Officially this time, Francois Hollande received at the Elysee the co-President of the Syrian Kurds (loyal to Ocalan), Asya Abdullah, and Commander Nesrin Abdullah in camouflage uniform. Salih Muslim was absent from this meeting.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan reacted by ordering an attack by Daesh, in Suruc, against a pro-Kurd demonstration, on the 20th July2015. Using Western anti-terrorist rhetoric, he declared war this time against Daesh and the Kurds, but used military means only against the Kurds. By doing so, he put an end to the cease-fire and re-started the civil war in his own country. Unable to create a pseudo-Kurdistan in Syria, he provoked the exodus of Kurds to Europe.

On the 3rd September 2015, the publication of a photograph of a drowned Kurdish child marked the start of a huge wave of migration from Turkey to the European Union, mainly to Germany. During the first weeks, the German leaders were delighted with this massive influx of new workers, badly needed by their heavy industry, while the media expressed their compassion for the refugees who were fleeing the Syrian dictatorship. Furthermore, on the 29th September, the French and German leaders hijacked the empathy for the migrants in order to study the possibility of financing the continuation of the war by giving 3 billion Euros to Turkey  a gift which was presented to public opinion as humanitarian aid for the refugees.

At the end of September 2015, Russia began its military operation against jihadists of all stripes, and Recep Tayyip Erdogan was compelled to watch the progressive failure of his project. He therefore ordered Salih Muslim to launch an operation for the forced Kurdisation of Northern Syria. The Kurdish brigades expelled the Arab and Assyrian teachers from their schools and replaced them with Kurdish teachers. The Syrians revolted and reached out to the Russians, who found a way to calm the situation, not without evoking a possible ulterior federalisation of Syria. There was no reaction from France.

On the 13th November, Turkey, exasperated by Francois Hollandes about-turns, took France hostage and ordered the attacks in Paris, causing 130 dead and 413 wounded.

I wrote at that time - Successive French governments have formed alliances with states whose values are opposed to those of the Republic. They have progressively opted for waging secret wars for these states, before changing their minds. President Hollande, and in particular his Head of Staff, General Benoit Puga, his Minister for Foreign Affairs, Laurent Fabius and his predecessor Alain Juppe, are today the object of blackmail from which they can only escape by revealing the mess into which they have dragged their country. [1].

Terrorised, Paris hastily resorted to the Juppe plan of 2011. With London, they caused the adoption, on the 20th November, of Resolution 2249 by the Security Council. Under cover of the fight against Daesh, the Resolution was intended to justify the conquest of Northern Syria in order to create, at last, the pseudo-Kurdistan to which Recep Tayyip Erdogan could expel his Kurds. But the United States and Russia had the text altered in such a way that France and the United Kingdom would not be able to intervene without being invited by Syria - a situation which raises echoes of the failed colonial operation of 1956, in which Franco-British troops attempted to occupy the Suez Canal with the support of Israel and Turkey, but had to withdraw under the glares of the United States and the USSR.

During the five and a half months of the Russian intervention in Syria, Turko-Russian relations continually worsened. The attack against the Metrojet Flight 9268 in the Sinai, Vladimir Putins accusations at the G20 summit in Antalya, the destruction of the Sukhoi-24 and Russian sanctions against Turkey, the publication of the aerial photographs of the interminable line of tanker-trucks carrying oil stolen by Daeash through Turkey, etc. After having considered declaring war on Turkey, Russia finally decided on the subtler plan of supporting the PKK against the Erdogan administration. Sergei Lavrov managed to convince his US partner to profit from the coming destabilisation of Turkey by organising the overthrow of the dictator Erdogan. The Turkish regime, which feels threatened by both Russia and the USA, is attempting to find allies. Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu went to Tehran on the 5th March, while the Iranian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, visited Ankara on the 18th March. But the Islamic Republic has no intention of causing trouble with the two great powers.

On the 14th March, Vladimir Putin announced the withdrawal of Russian bombers, at which point the pseudo-Kurdistan project once again became possible. But Moscow and Washington were one step ahead  they began to deliver, indirectly, weapons to the PKK.

Unfortunately, this time it was the European Union which no longer wanted to hear about the colonisation of Northern Syria. The majority of EU member states have followed the foreign policy imposed by Paris for the last five years, with a remarkable absence of success. In order to signal their annoyance, several states, including Belgium, offered political asylum to leaders of the Turkish Kurds. They expressed their anger during the EU-Turkey summit of the 17th and 18th March, during which they were obliged to adopt definitively the subsidy of 3 billion Euros per year to Ankara.

On that occasion, I denounced the behaviour of the European elite, who, blinded by their anti-Syrian obsession, were reproducing the same error that was committed in 1938. At that time, obsessed by their anti-communism, they supported Chancellor Hitler during the annexation of Austria and the Sudeten crisis (Munich agreements), without realising that they were arming the enemy which was about to strike them [2].

During the EU-Turkey summit, and therefore independently of any decisions which were taken there, President Erdogan gave a televised speech on the occasion of the 101st anniversary of the battle of Canakkale (the battle of the Dardanelles  the victory of the Ottoman Empire over the allies) and in remembrance of the victims of the attack perpetrated in Ankara a few days earlier. He declared -

There is no reason that the bomb which exploded in Ankara might not explode in Brussels or another European city () Here I am appealing to all states who open their arms and who, directly or indirectly, support terrorist organisations. You are feeding a serpent in your bed. and this serpent that you are feeding may bite you at any moment. Perhaps looking at these bombs which explode in Turkey on your television screens means nothing to you  but when the bombs begin exploding in your cities, you will certainly understand what we are feeling. But then it will be too late. Stop supporting these activities which you would never tolerate in your own countries, except when they are aimed at Turkey.  [3].

Four days later, the attacks occurred in Brussels, causing 34 dead and 260 wounded. and so that we would not think it was a coincidence, but a deliberate act, on the following day the Turkish Press rejoiced at the punishment inflicted upon Belgium [4].

Since President Erdogan re-started the civil war, it has cost 3,500 lives in Turkey.
Thierry Meyssan reports from Damascus that Turkish President Erdogan is now widely regarded as the prime suspect in the March 22 terrorist bombing of Brussels, Belgium and its nearby airport. Meyssan also points to emerging evidence that would implicate Erdogan in the Paris massacre of last November 13.

According to Meyssan, the chain of events leading to these tragic events goes back to 2011, when the French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe entered into a secret accord with then Turkish Foreign Minister Davutoglu for the purpose of carving a new and artificial state, out of northern Syria. This meeting occurred during the first year of the Syrian war, when Erdogan and Davutoglu were still counting on an early disintegration of the government of President Assad.

The new artificial state was to be called Kurdistan, but it was to be located on Syrian territory stolen from that country. To populate this new state, the Turkish government was preparing an enormous campaign of ethnic cleansing, deportations, and expulsions designed to expel virtually all Kurds from its territory. The original agreement reached in the talks between Juppe and Davutoglu was reportedly confirmed at a subsequent higher-level conference with the participation of French President Hollande, the then Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan, and a renegade Kurdish leader  specifically Salih Muslim Muhammad, co-chairman of the Democratic Union Party, a political formation among the Syrian Kurds.

One of the groups most disadvantaged by this arrangement was the Syrian Kurds, but they were able to fight back by defeating the ISIS terrorists during the siege of Kobane, a Syrian Kurdish town on the Turkish border. The during late 2014 and early 2015, the Kobane Kurds, with some US air support, administered one of the first defeats which the ISIS butchers had experienced. Because the YPG Kurds have proven effective, the US decided to back them as a proxy against ISIS. France, seeing the new US attitude, decided to delay the implementation of the earlier Kurdistan plan, and maintain alignment with Washington.

It is now clear to many observers that the November 13, 2015 Paris massacres represented the response of the Erdogan clique to these developments. Erdogan had originally intended to use the Paris massacres as a pretext for scapegoating the Kurds and beginning their expulsion from Turkish territory. But, starting in October 2015, and with the deployment of the Russian Air Force to Syrian bases, Erdogan once again was forced to delay his Kurdistan scenario. Almost as soon as the Russian planes arrived, the Turkish MIT secret intelligence agency was widely blamed for the destruction of a Russian commercial airliner over the Sinai district of Egypt. Then there was the Turkish downing of a Russian Sukhoi jet fighter. Erdogan was unable to see the initiative.

Now, during March 2016, Russian President Putin has announced the beginning of a gradual drawdown of Russian forces in Syria. But at the same time, there is an understanding between Obamas White House and Putins Kremlin that everyone must be ousted as the president of Turkey.

Meyssan confirmed last weeks reports that Russian and US weapons are now flowing into the hands of the YPG Syrian Kurds, the victors of Kobane and other recent actions. Some of these weapons are being passed on by the YPG into the hands of the PKK, a Kurdish group, which operates inside Turkey, and which Ankara insists on defining as terrorist.

In the meantime, Erdogans blackmail of the European Union over the issue of refugees fleeing from the Syrian war zone has proven successful in the form of an EU commitment to pay 3 billion per year to Erdogan. The money is allegedly to be used to defray the expenses of housing large numbers of Syrian refugees in Anatolia, but it is an open secret that this money will be used by Erdogan to finance the continuation of ISIS operations in Iraq and Syria.

Terrorist attacks took place inside Turkey, on March 13 in Ankara and on March 19 in Istanbul.

March 18, if the Turkish President delivered a special address for the 101st anniversary of the Anglo-French operation against Gallipoli during World War I. Here Erdogan made a public show of indignation about a recent demonstration by pro-Kurdish groups in Brussels, Belgium, during last weeks EU-Turkish refugee summit there, an action which sought to focus public attention on Turkish human rights abuses.

Accusing the European Union, and especially Belgium of supporting the PKK, Erdogan claimed that the EU and Belgium were themselves terrorists

There is no reason why the bomb that exploded in Ankara cannot explode in Brussels, in any other European city, raved Erdogan; The snakes you are sleeping with can bite you any time.

Note that this represented a direct threat of terrorist violence against Brussels and Belgium just four days before the actual Brussels bombing. On this basis alone, Erdogan would have to be considered the prime suspect.

The during the days after the Brussels terror bombing, Turkish newspapers controlled by the Erdogan faction is celebrated what they called the punishment of Belgium up by the very terror groups, which had been harbored there.

European leaders remain willfully blind to the real activities of Erdogan and his supporters. The Turkish President is reported to regard the Turks as a master race destined to rule the world. That is his idea of the Caliphate.

Western police and intelligence agencies need to direct special scrutiny towards the Milli Gorus (National Vision) organization, which is especially active among the Turkish diaspora. Erdogan is thought to direct many of the activities of this group.

Erdogan also controls Hizb ut Tahrir (Party of Liberation), an international Pan-Islamist group dedicated to the reconstitution of the Caliphate under Sharia Law and the subsequent conquest of the entire world.

These groups, together with the Moslem Brotherhood (Ikhwan) itself can all be mobilized by Erdogan as a terrorist trifecta for his projects of jihad, intimidation, and aggression.

In another disturbing development, the Turkish dictator is identifying himself more and more with figures from the history of Central Asia like Attila the Hun and Genghis Khan.
The kings of Spain brought us the conquistadores and masters, whose footprints remained in the circular land grants assigned to those searching for gold in the sands of rivers, an abusive and shameful form of exploitation, traces of which can be noted from the air in many places around the country.

Tourism today, in large part, consists of viewing the delights of our landscapes and tasting exquisite delicacies from our seas, and is always shared with the private capital of large foreign corporations, whose earnings, if they dont reach billions of dollars, are not worthy of any attention whatsoever.

Since I find myself obliged to mention the issue, I must add - principally for the youth - that few people are aware of the importance of such a condition, in this singular moment of human history. I would not say that time has been lost, but I do not hesitate to affirm that we are not adequately informed, not you, nor us, of the knowledge and conscience that we must have to confront the realities which challenge us. The first to be taken into consideration is that our lives are but a fraction of a historical second, which must also be devoted in part to the vital necessities of every human being. One of the characteristics of this condition is the tendency to overvalue its role, in contrast, on the other hand, with the extraordinary number of persons who embody the loftiest dreams.

Nevertheless, no one is good or bad entirely on their own. None of us is designed for the role we must assume in a revolutionary society, although Cubans had the privilege of Jose Martis example. I even ask myself if he needed to die or not in Dos Rios, when he said, For me, its time, and charged the Spanish forces entrenched in a solid line of firepower. He did not want to return to the United States, and there was no one who could make him. Someone ripped some pages from his diary. Who bears this treacherous responsibility, undoubtedly the work of an unscrupulous conspirator? Differences between the leaders were well known, but never indiscipline. Whoever attempts to appropriate Cuba will reap only the dust of its soil drenched in blood, if he does not perish in the struggle, stated the glorious Black leader Antonio Maceo. Maximo Gomez is likewise recognized as the most disciplined and discreet military chief in our history.

Looking at it from another angle, how can we not admire the indignation of Bonifacio Byrne when, from a distant boat returning him to Cuba, he saw another flag alongside that of the single star and declared, My flag is that which has never been mercenary... immediately adding one of the most beautiful phrases I have ever heard, If it is torn to shreds, it will be my flag one day our dead raising their arms will still be able to defend it! Nor will I forget the blistering words of Camilo Cienfuegos that night, when, just some tens of meters away, bazookas and machine guns of U.S. origin in the hands of counterrevolutionaries were pointed toward that terrace on which we stood.

Obama was born in August of 1961, as he himself explained. More than half a century has transpired since that time.

Let us see, however, how our illustrious guest thinks today:

I have come here to bury the last remnant of the Cold War in the Americas. I have come here to extend the hand of friendship to the Cuban people, followed by a deluge of concepts entirely novel for the majority of us:

We both live in a new world, colonized by Europeans, the U.S. President continued, Cuba, like the United States, was built in part by slaves brought here from Africa. Like the United States, the Cuban people can trace their heritage to both slaves and slave-owners.

The native populations dont exist at all in Obamas mind. Nor does he say that the Revolution swept away racial discrimination, or that pensions and salaries for all Cubans were decreed by it before Mr. Barrack Obama was 10 years old. The hateful, racist bourgeois custom of hiring strongmen to expel Black citizens from recreational centers was swept away by the Cuban Revolution - that which would go down in history for the battle against apartheid that liberated Angola, putting an end to the presence of nuclear weapons on a continent of more than a billion inhabitants. This was not the objective of our solidarity, but rather to help the peoples of Angola, Mozambique, Guinea Bissau and others under the fascist colonial domination of Portugal.

In 1961, just one year and three months after the triumph of the Revolution, a mercenary force with armored artillery and infantry, backed by aircraft, trained and accompanied by U.S. warships and aircraft carriers, attacked our country by surprise. Nothing can justify that perfidious attack which cost our country hundreds of losses, including deaths and injuries

As for the pro-yankee assault brigade, no evidence exists anywhere that it was possible to evacuate a single mercenary. Yankee combat planes were presented before the United Nations as the equipment of a Cuban uprising.

The military experience and power of this country is very well known. In Africa, they likewise believed that revolutionary Cuba would be easily taken out of the fight. The invasion via southern Angola by racist South African motorized brigades got close to Luanda, the capital in the eastern part of the country. There a struggle began which went on for no less than 15 years. I wouldnt even talk about this, if I didnt have the elemental duty to respond to Obamas speech in Havanas Alicia Alonso Grand Theater.

Nor will I attempt to give details, only emphasize that an honorable chapter in the struggle for human liberation was written there. In a certain way, I hoped Obamas behavior would be correct. His humble origin and natural intelligence were evident. Mandela was imprisoned for life and had become a giant in the struggle for human dignity. One day, a copy of a book narrating part of Mandelas life reached my hands, and - surprise! - the prologue was by Barack Obama. I rapidly skimmed the pages. The miniscule size of Mandelas handwriting noting facts was incredible. Knowing men such as him was worthwhile.

Regarding the episode in South Africa I must point out another experience. I was really interested in learning more about how the South Africans had acquired nuclear weapons. I only had very precise information that there were no more than 10 or 12 bombs. A reliable source was the professor and researcher Piero Gleijeses, who had written the text Conflicting Missions: Havana, Washington, and Africa, 1959-1976, an excellent piece. I knew he was the most reliable source on what had happened and I told him so; he responded that he had not spoken more about the matter as in the text he had responded to questions from companero Jorge Risquet, who had been Cuban ambassador and collaborator in Angola, a very good friend of his. I located Risquet; already undertaking other important tasks he was finishing a course which would last several weeks longer. That task coincided with a fairly recent visit by Piero to our country; I had warned him that Risquet was getting on and his health was not great. A few days later what I had feared occurred. Risquet deteriorated and died. When Piero arrived there was nothing to do except make promises, but I had already received information related to the weapons and the assistance that racist South Africa had received from Reagan and Israel.

I do not know what Obama would have to say about this story now. I am unaware as to what he did or did not know, although it is very unlikely that he knew absolutely nothing. My modest suggestion is that he gives it thought and does not attempt now to elaborate theories on Cuban policy.

There is an important issue:

Obama made a speech in which he uses the most sweetened words to express: It is time, now, to forget the past, leave the past behind, let us look to the future together, a future of hope. And it wont be easy, there will be challenges and we must give it time; but my stay here gives me more hope in what we can do together as friends, as family, as neighbors, together.

I suppose all of us were at risk of a heart attack upon hearing these words from the President of the United States. After a ruthless blockade that has lasted almost 60 years, and what about those who have died in the mercenary attacks on Cuban ships and ports, an airliner full of passengers blown up in midair, mercenary invasions, multiple acts of violence and coercion?

Nobody should be under the illusion that the people of this dignified and selfless country will renounce the glory, the rights, or the spiritual wealth they have gained with the development of education, science and culture.

I also warn that we are capable of producing the food and material riches we need with the efforts and intelligence of our people. We do not need the empire to give us anything. Our efforts will be legal and peaceful, as this is our commitment to peace and fraternity among all human beings who live on this planet.
Don Cheadle. Photo: Mike Windle/Getty Images

Don Cheadle made his his directorial debut with the Miles Davis biopic Miles Ahead  a daunting task, but fortunately, you dont get to be Don Cheadle without crossing paths with a few hotshot Hollywood directors along the way. What advice did Cheadles favorite auteurs give him? All kinds! As the actor told Rhapsody, the in-flight magazine for United Airlines, Argos Ben Affleck counseled him to listen to his instincts when choosing a cast and crew. And Monuments Men director George Clooney instructed Cheadle to work on his fitness: Do your push-ups, drink plenty of water, and dont get sick. Never say that actors turned directors are not real directors.
Theres an unintentionally symbolic moment in one of the last scenes of I Win. Willa is in a bar talking to Bridey Cruz, the worst journalist in the Western Hemisphere. Bridey tells her that she needs to relax a bit, that she doesnt have to grip her purse with such fervor, that she should just unwind. (She then kisses her, but thats more of a stupid plot point than a symbolic moment.)

As I watched this scene unfold, I couldnt help but think that The Family could stand to take its own advice. If this show is like anyone, its like Willa  a grim, humorless slog of a person trapped in a grim, humorless slog of a series. Ads for the show hype its supposedly jaw-dropping twists and turns, practically begging us to think of it like we think of Scandal, but it lacks Scandals vim and savvy and shamelessness, as well as any of its broader social commentary. Instead, The Family has trapped itself within this Adam mystery, and thats a plot that can only bring diminishing returns.

To wit: At the end of I Win, Bridey rushes into her editors office and declares that shes gotten the results of a paternity test connected to Adam. It isnt him, she says. Dun-dun-dun! Well, the kid was always either going to be the real Adam or not, so its not all that shocking of a reveal. The show gets some points, I suppose, for recognizing that it cant play this game out indefinitely, but where can it realistically go from here? At some point, the Warrens will find out that their kid is still missing or dead, or there will be some second twist, and then  what? Are we going to go through the whole rigmarole again?

Similarly, Adams supposed captor, Doug, will either wind up being the villain he seems to be, or hell be something else entirely. (Incidentally, his relationship with his pregnant wife is one of the most stable on the whole show, which is a bad sign for everyone else.) Are we really going to spend the whole season watching Doug slowly evade capture? I Win sends him on a trip to some of the places he apparently told Adam they would go if he was good. Because he is a supervillain, he manages to slip away just before hes caught by the authorities. Foiled again!

And whats Hank sticking around for? To the shock of nobody, it turns out he beat himself up and destroyed his own house. He also got himself an entire cake with the words I Win written on it. Andrew McCarthy is certainly creepy  he has a nice dead-eyed sort of twitchiness going on  but to what end? Does he matter because he actually killed the real Adam? The answer to that will probably emerge in five seasons.

Before we find out Hank was his own assailant, a cloud of suspicion hangs around John, who Hank accused of attacking him. John is a pretty worthless character  seriously, the man brings less than nothing to the table  and Rupert Graves is struggling mightily, both to bring any life to this loser and to land a convincing American accent. At least Johns not also some sort of deranged maniac. He even has a moment of vague reconciliation with Claire; they share one of the more awkward showers youre likely to see on television. Better than sleeping with Nina again, I guess. Claires put Nina in her place, pointing out that she cant just pretend to be a neutral officer investigating the assault on Hank when shes been sleeping with John for ten years. (The scenes where Joan Allen gets to treat Margot Bingham with contempt are fast becoming a highlight of this show.) Nina listens to sense for a change and helps get Hank to drop his accusation against John.

Also helpful? The aforementioned Bridey, who decides to turn her powers of evil towards Willa instead of Danny. Bridey is perhaps the most infuriating character on The Family, if only because she seems brewed from a recipe whose ingredients only contain hateful cliches. You can tick them off as you go along. Predatory lesbian/bisexual woman? Check! Ethics-free journalist? Check! She uses both to her advantage in I Win, first offering to help the Warren campaign from her perch at the local newspaper, and then ensnaring Willa in her clutches. No amount of eye rolling is enough for this.

The most interesting part of The Family  Claires political career  takes a real backseat in this episode, though there are hints that the Warrens are becoming an infinitesimally more united front when it comes to the campaign. John starts the hour whining about Claires run, as though he has any right to express an opinion about what she should be doing with her time. By the end of it, hes thanked her for not doubting him and is playing his role as father-protector to the hilt. Still, Claire barely registers, which is a big problem. Joan Allen is by far the shows biggest asset, and Claires ethically ambiguous relationship to her familys trauma is the only portion of the series with any real depth.

I Win winds down with Nina saying she thinks she can catch Adams captor, but she needs to use Adam as bait. Knowing the level of her incompetence, this suggestion seems more ominous than anything else, but who knows? The umpteenth time might be a charm for poor Nina! Id rather be hitting the campaign trail with Claire.

Random Thoughts:
As Netflix readies to reboot Voltron, the team behind the next-gen mech warrior promises fans a solid blend of the old and the new: Were trying to keep as much of that classic feel to it as we can, because ultimately we have huge amounts of nostalgia for [the 1980s original], coexec producer Lauren Montgomery told USA Today in March. But the series will also reportedly bring more serialization, bigger threats, more realistic characters, and richer backstories. Soak in a big glimpse of all that with the first official trailer, above, and relive the WonderCon teaser, below. Coming from DreamWorksTV, the shows first 13 episodes arrive June 10  meaning you still have one month to either celebrate or get over the fact that this isnt Vehicle Force Voltron.
Stuart Gerber, performing Stockhausens Klang. Photo: Paula Lobo/Courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Some iconoclastic artists eventually adapt to the system; others defy it; still others ignore it completely. Karlheinz Stockhausen was the rare composer who made institutions contort to fit his imagination. His music demanded miles of cable, acres of space, custom electronic instruments, and, in one case, a caged wild bird. He found governments and presenters happy to provide them all. His seven-opera cycle Licht involves placing multiple orchestras and choirs in different halls. The Cologne Opera built two theaters inside an exhibition hall. A string quartet in a helicopter? Done.

Stockhausen died in 2007, and his final and unfinished work, Klang, is a cakewalk by comparison: a 21-hour cycle of pieces, each one requiring a different configuration of performers. Even so, its U.S. premiere had to wait for a cultural juggernaut eager for a fresh challenge. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, which has just opened Met Breuer, celebrated its physical expansion with a long exhalation of Klang. And so, on a bright spring Saturday, I followed the ley lines connecting the Mets three branches, beginning with an 11 a.m. performance of Hour 1, Himmelfahrt (Heavenward Journey), in the Fuentiduena Chapel at the Cloisters. It felt a little early in the day for a 45-minute organ ritual, in which the soloist, Taka Kigawa, occasionally paused the clotted flow of notes, took up a mallet, and struck a gong or a bell. Periodically, a tenor and soprano interjected an impatient Gott! The music clattered off the chapels stone walls.

Stockhausens music often sounds patched together with bungee cords and safety pins, and so do the philosophical and religious ideas behind it. Yet he was a master of orderly madness, planning his works with a technical precision that keeps his fans absorbed in deciphering their construction. His scores are visual artworks, multicolored, elaborate cryptographs that winnow out all but the most devoted performers. He could be prolix and sporadically captivating: You never know when some moment of sonic magic will emerge from the grandiose rattletrap. Presenters sometimes take a sacramental approach to Stockhausens large-scale spiritual theatrics, but Klang is a collection of long-winded miniatures, and the Mets music producer Limor Tomer wisely inserted them into the ordinary hum of the museums life. At the Cloisters, people followed their ears to the chapel and either stayed or wandered away. (Mostly they stayed, so the staff hurriedly added more chairs.) Later, at the Fifth Avenue mothership, visitors wandering through the Arms and Armor Court had to squeeze by the piano where Yukiko Takagi was performing Hour 3, Naturliche Dauern (Natural Durations). Great metallic chords struck in the marble hall, dying into the ambient hum. At the Met Breuer, the cloud-tearing angel-calls of Erwachen, for soprano saxophone, trumpet, and cello, sliced through the din from the cafe beyond the curtains.

Its hard to gauge how many Stockhausenites bounced among the various Mets, plotting routes to maximize the number of separate musical hours they could take in. Nobody could logistically manage them all, but my colleague Zachary Woolfe at the Times clocked 17; I honor his sitzfleisch. Two pieces strike me as essential. One is Cosmic Pulses, (Hour 13), a multilayered work of chattering electronics that Stockhausen deconstructed and repurposed as accompaniments for an assortment of soloists. The second is Himmels Tur (Heavens Gate), which at first seems to present the simplest of low-tech setups: one musician, cudgeling a wooden door with a pair of heavy sticks. And yet Stuart Gerber summoned such a colorful orchestra of sounds from the 12 panels of different woods and thicknesses that the door seemed to be speaking in tongues. He tapped, hammered, leapt, stomped, and panted in a routine of gradually intensifying virtuosity and passion. For all of Stockhausens deadpan severity, this is a depiction of pure physical and spiritual desire, which the composer gratifies in his own mysterious way. The door finally opens and the player walks through  to an offstage apparatus of cymbals and sirens that make a savage new din. Then a little girl gets up from the audience and walks onstage and silently through the door. On a day of haphazard encounters and musical migrations, her silent exit  or was it an entrance?  had the power of a major event.
When Elvis Presley died in 1977, the major rock critics of the era penned some of their most heartfelt, personal pieces, sizing up the magnitude of the moment. Dave Marsh dived into the dregs of Elviss work, trying to make sense of how the man whod so effortlessly fused pop, blues, and hillbilly music in the 1950s descended into schmaltz once he hit Hollywood. Lester Bangs wrote about a lost sense of community in rock and roll, ending with one of his most famous lines: I wont bother saying good-bye to his corpse. I will say good-bye to you. The strange career and sudden end of a cultural icon  whod been taken for granted for the last decade-plus of his career  allowed a lot of great writers to crystallize their thoughts on fame, vitality, and American music.

I cant argue that this weeks Vinyl, The King and I, is as cogent or poetic as a Lester Bangs essay. For one thing, the episode frequently stinks of effort. More than a few scenes push too hard for profundity. Others take cheap potshots at American Centurys already pathetic, hip-enough-to-know-hes-square Zak Yankovic. Sometimes co-workers take shots at Zak  like Andrea, who, during a staff meeting, says that shes going to pick up [his] panty shields. Sometimes he rips on himself, like when he has a bad run at a casino and he says hes busted like my sisters cherry on prom night. No matter whos delivering the jokes, though, they are thuddingly vulgar.

Still, after two straight weeks of Vinyl repeating the same flat, shrill notes, its reinvigorating to see a plot with an arc that actually goes places. The King and I winds from New York to Los Angeles and back again, with a lengthy layover in Las Vegas. Zak and Richie fly out West, hoping to increase American Centurys liquidity by selling the labels corporate jet to high-flying industry honcho Lou Meshejian (played by John Ventimiglia, a.k.a. The Sopranos Artie Bucco). While in the air, the boys have a long-overdue conversation about their friendship and their partnership. Last week, I said this show needed more of these kinds of scenes between Zak and Richie, where they talk to each other, not yell. And while The King and I ultimately reveals Zak to be something of a creep  getting liquored up and angling for a threesome with two much-younger gals  the episode is anchored by a satisfying mini-odyssey, not unlike when Mad Men would send Don Draper off on a trip.

Then theres the Elvis angle. While Zak and Richie are at a swank Malibu party, they hear that Mr. Elvis Aaron Presley might be willing to jump ship from his longtime label RCA. So on the way home from California they visit Vegas, where Richie maneuvers his way past Presleys dictatorial manager Colonel Tom Parker (played by a perfectly cast Gene Jones) and has a late-night audience with the King (played by Elvis tribute artist Shawn Klush). As Richie pitches what American Century could do for Elvis  more stripped-down arrangements, and a moratorium on brand-cheapening cash-ins  its like hes trying to convince himself that its possible to be both middle-aged and culturally relevant.

The meeting with Elvis ties well into the episodes real target. In a bit of inadvertent irony, Richie asks Presley, Youre gonna die a rich man 50 years from now, but are you gonna die a king? This is the same basic question he asked himself when he turned down millions, nixing that deal to sell his label to Polygram. Now hes realizing one of the ramifications of that decision. Its hard to be a king without being a rich man. All of Richies big plans for American Century could be undone by an inability to make payroll. Its not very punk-rock to keep track of business expenses, but thats where he finds himself  counting pennies and selling off pieces of the labels history. (Before handing off the company plane, Zak reminisces that his wife picked out the color of the interior; its one of Vinyls most poignant and human moments yet.)

The episodes thematic preoccupations partially explain its twist ending, which is otherwise abrupt and kind of cruel. In a gambling mood after rolling the dice with Elvis, Richie takes the sack full of money that he got from selling his plane and bets it all on 18 in a game of roulette (because, as we see in a nifty flashback montage, that number kept popping up everywhere throughout the trip). When he loses everything, he tricks Zak into thinking that he lost the money to the two ladies he just drunkenly slept with. This is a bum way to end what had been a nice bonding experience for the two of them. Even worse? Richie falls back off the wagon on the way home, guzzling vodka, perhaps convinced that the clean living, responsible bookkeeping, and magical thinking of the previous few days had been a waste.

Ultimately, none of these folks are as savvy  or as blessed  as they think they are. Zak keeps insisting that hes got a better ear than Richie believes, but proves himself to be as shallow and shortsighted when he heckles Elvis for singing Polk Salad Annie  a Tony Joe White country-blues classic thats true to Presleys roots. (At least I hope that its just Zak who doesnt get the song, and not Vinyls writers  because the latter case would be a shame.) And when Zak sees Mama Cass Elliot at the Malibu party, he makes a crack to Richie about get(ting) to the buffet before you-know-who, which is terribly mean.

Then again, Zaks just a person. And so was Mama Cass, whod be dead within a year. And Jim Morrison, who had his last three-way on the American Century jet. And Gram Parsons, who runs into Richie at the party and raves about Joshua Tree, where hed be found dead later that fall. The King and I is haunted by the ghosts of the newly dead and the soon-to-be-gone.

No future ghost, though, looms larger than Elvis, who by the end of his meeting with Richie is rubbing his arm, feeling the angina thatll overcome him in just a few years. Heres a wounded King, kept prisoner by a stingy colonel. Thats an apt analogue for Richie, who thinks hes a visionary but cant see beyond his balance sheet. If the legacy of Elvis taught us anything, its this: When people who try to make popular art cant live with compromises  well, maybe they just cant live.

Its Only Rock and Roll (But I Like It):

A lot of the episodes funny dialogue didnt land, but I did laugh out loud at two lines during Zak and Richies long airplane conversation: Zak saying hes never felt confident enough to attempt a three-way because Why disappoint two women?, and Richie taking a beat after an angry Zak rant, then shouting back, I partly see your point!

Clark gets more to do this week, starting over in the mail room with skeptical black and Latino co-workers. Theres nothing all that special about the Clark scenes, but its amusing to watch him struggle to be cool (including doing an unimpressive Funky Chicken)  and its nice that Jamie tries to help. Here again we have a mini-arc rooted in the actual music business, with colleagues working together toward a common goal. More of this, please.

The King and I also sees the return of Joe Corso, in a too-brief scene of him negotiating for airtime with a WABC programmer while a cop listens in nearby. In the summer of 1973, the grand-jury hearings into payola at Columbia Records started to become a huge story. It seems inevitable that this will become a major part of Vinyl in the weeks ahead.

Richie meets Stephen Stills and gushes Manassas? I dug it! This may be typical label-exec schmoozing (or maybe a nod to Christopher Moltisanti shouting Marty! Kundun! I liked it! to Martin Scorsese on The Sopranos). But you know what? Richie should dig Manassas. The self-titled double album that Stills recorded with that makeshift band  which also featured the Byrds Chris Hillman and CSNY drummer Dallas Taylor  is one of the underrated gems of the early 70s. Its a forerunner of the eclectic Americana of modern acts like Wilco.

Speaking of Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young: We briefly see David and Neil roaming through the Malibu party, where Lou suggests that he should get all the boys back together for a tour. Thats probably a reference to the blockbuster arena circuit the quartet played in the summer of 1974. At the time, those gigs  so huge, so indulgent, and so sloppily organized  were held up by critics as an example of California rock excess. But when the live album CSNY 1974 was belatedly released in 2014, it sounded fantastic. When it comes to pop culture, there are no eternal certainties.

Soundtrack to this review:
PRESS RELEASE  The Museum celebrates this years 100-year anniversary of the U.S Coast Guard on April 2 with a fly-in display of Coast Guard helicopters, special movies and lectures, plus free admission to active Coast Guard personnel and a guest. USCG helicopters on view in the Museums parking lot may include several HH-65 Dolphins and MH-60 Jayhawks. Movie screenings about Coast Guard operations and history will be held at 10:30 a.m. and 2:15 p.m., and at 12:30 p.m., author Tom Beard leads a presentation and panel discussion about the Coast Guard. Visitors are welcome to watch the helicopters arrive at 9 a.m. All events are free with admission to the Museum; free admission to active Coast Guard personnel and a guest.



Founded in 1965, the independent, non-profit Museum of Flight is one of the largest air and space museums in the world, serving more than 560,000 visitors annually. The Museums collection includes more than 160 historically significant airplanes and spacecraft, from the first fighter plane (1914) to todays 787 Dreamliner. Attractions also include the original Boeing Company factory, and the worlds only full-scale NASA Space Shuttle Trainer. The Museums aviation and space library and archives are the largest on the West Coast. More than 150,000 individuals are served annually by the Museums on-site and outreach educational programs. The Museum of Flight is accredited by the American Association of Museums, and is an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution.

2016 Boeing Centennial Recognition

The Museum of Flight draws upon its unrivaled collection of Boeing aircraft, artifacts, images and documents to present The Boeing Company story during the year of its centennial, 2016. The Museum-wide Boeing recognition will be enhanced with public lectures, films and other presentations that focus on Seattle and popular culture during the past century.

About The Museum of Flight

The Museum of Flight is located at 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle, Exit 158 off Interstate 5 on Boeing Field halfway between downtown Seattle and Sea-Tac Airport. The Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults, $17 for seniors 65 and older, $17 for active military, $12 for youth 5 to 17, and free for children under 5. Group rates are available. Admission on the first Thursday of the month is free from 5 to 9 p.m. courtesy of Wells Fargo. McCormick & Schmicks Wings Cafe is on site. For general Museum information, please call 206-764-5720 or visit www.museumofflight.org
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A key consumer group has warned the government might need to overhaul the way power prices are set, as the latest pricing decision in NSW is faced with further legal challenge, jeopardising planned price cuts and threatening to delay the Baird government's power privatisation.

On Thursday, the Australian Energy Regulator sought a judicial review of a decision late in February by the Australian Competition Tribunal that had set the scene for planned price cuts of about $300 to the annual household power bill to be unwound. The legal challenge is set to take several months to resolve.

We may have to wait longer for cheaper power bills. Credit:James Davies

However, Energy Consumers Australia, the consumer representative body established by the federal and state governments, says the competition tribunal's rejection of planned price cuts is "inconsistent".

"The decision of the Australian Competition Tribunal did not reflect its obligation to make a decision that was materially preferable as a whole in the long-term interests of energy consumers," Energy Consumers Australia head Rosemary Sinclair said.
Qatar's al-Jazeera broadcasting network is laying off about 500 employees or more than 10 per cent of its staff, reflecting financial pressures on the tiny Gulf state due to low global prices for oil and natural gas.

Most of those affected are based at its Doha headquarters, according to Sunday's statement from the network, which is controlled by Qatar's royal family.

Al-Jazeera is slashing about 500 jobs as Qatar reacts to shrinking oil and gas revenue and changes in the global media landscape. Credit:AP

Before the lay-offs, the network had about 4000 staff members, a spokesman said.

Mostefa Souag, al-Jazeera's acting director-general, said the network needed to conduct the lay-offs to maintain its position in the industry "in light of the large-scale changes under way in the global media landscape".
In a 3700-word essay published in the Quadrant magazine over the weekend, Mr Abbott acknowledged that, while there was sense in a Japanese partnership, the priority was always the best possible submarine for the best possible price.

Former prime minister Tony Abbott has hinted that a local build for Australia's new submarine fleet could be viable.

The Japanese bid is facing competition from French and German firms.

"As this process has unfolded, it's became apparent that overseas [shipyard] capacity restrictions could make a local build the most viable option after all," Mr Abbott wrote.

It's unclear when the Turnbull government will announce the winning tender.

Mr Abbott has previously backed Japan's quest to build Australia's next fleet of submarines.

He also defended his decision to cosy up to the former Sri Lankan president as part of his efforts to stop the flow of asylum seeker boats.



In the essay, Mr Abbott hailed his call not to join the "the human rights lobby against the tough but probably unavoidable actions taken to end one of the world's most vicious civil wars".



The United Nations has been pushing for an investigation into allegations that up to 40,000 ethnic Tamil civilians were killed by Sri Lankan government troops in the final months of fighting in the civil war, which ended in 2009.
The doctors' peak body has hailed the prospect of a $7 billion emergency hospitals funding deal between Canberra and the states as a welcome break from the policies of the previous Abbott government.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull will meet premiers and chief ministers on Friday for a much-anticipated Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting, with health and education funding at the top of the agenda.

Catherine King criticised the potential funding deal, calling it a short-term fix to silence state leaders in the lead-up to the federal election. Credit:ABC

As well as extra money for hospitals, the leaders will also discuss NSW Premier Mike Baird's plan to spread out the final two years of Gonski school funding across four years.

The states have been pushing hard for the government to backtrack on an $80 billion cut to funding for schools and hospitals announced by the Abbott government in its first budget.
"I have expressed support for it before. It has merit because it's a big country," Senator Canavan told ABC's Radio National.

Weighing in to a debate that is as old as the hills , the new frontbencher said statehood for northern Queensland could benefit the region economically and would align with the conservative inclination to localised government.

The recently-installed Minister for Northern Australia Matt Canavan has endorsed a referendum on the creation of a seventh Australian state by splitting Queensland in two, arguing the proposal has "merit" and should be put to the people.

"I think if the founding fathers were still here, 115 years on from Federation, they'd be a bit surprised that we haven't created new states. There are provisions in the constitution to do that - we haven't used those provisions though we've tried before."

New frontbencher Matt Canavan says statehood for northern Queensland could benefit the region's economy. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

In 1967, a referendum on statehood for the New England region of NSW was defeated with a "no" vote of 54 per cent. A "split" Queensland is also thought to lack popular support, but is regularly pushed by northern MPs ahead of federal elections.

Leading the charge on this occasion are Katter's Australian Party MPs Rob Katter and Shane Knuth, along with former Labor MP Rob Pyne. Their cause will be aided by the endorsement of Senator Canavan, who said public sentiment should be tested at the polls.

"It's good to focus on big ideas for the country - this is a big idea," he said. "It's up to the people whether they want it or not."
Delhi: A "cure for cancer" using yoga could be scientifically proven within a year, India's alternative medicine minister has claimed.

Shripad Yasso Naik said researchers at a Bangalore institute had found evidence that yoga techniques could be used to prevent or arrest the disease.

India's alternative medicine minister claims yoga can be used to prevent or cure cancer. Credit:iStock

"The institute has found a technique of yoga for the prevention and cure of cancer. They have proved it. The process uses only practising of special asanas [poses]," said Mr Naik.

At a conference in Goa on Saturday, Mr Naik said the technique could be prescribed within a year, once research documents submitted to the ministry had been verified, and could even replace chemotherapy.
EXCLUSIVE

One of Bill Shorten's closest political allies has inflated his union's membership levels in an apparent bid to boost the union's clout in the ALP and prop up the opposition leader's dominant right faction.

Plumbers union boss Earl Setches and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews.

A Fairfax investigation has found that the Plumbers Union, led by Shorten ally Earl Setches, has for each of the past eight years claimed many more members to Labor than its official figures show, in one year nearly double.

Mr Setches blamed the difference on a "clerical f--k-up" and denied his union had inflated its membership numbers to ALP for factional advantage. "No reason whatsoever, I would not give a f--k (about ALP numbers)," he said.
A man has been charged with the murder of popular outback nurse Gayle Woodford, prompting calls for improved welfare for remote healthcare workers.

Ms Woodford's body was found in a shallow, roadside grave a short distance from the remote South Australian community Fregon on Saturday, four days after she was last seen about 9.40pm on Wednesday.

Gayle Woodford's body was found in a shallow roadside grave. Credit:Facebook

A Mimili man, 36, who was arrested and charged with vehicle theft on Thursday after police stopped a local ambulance normally driven by Ms Woodford near Coober Pedy, was then charged with murder on Sunday.

Another man and a woman who were also in the ambulance have not been charged.
Australia's food standards authority is investigating whether the federal government should consider changing labelling requirements for irradiated food.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand has called for stakeholder and public submissions as to whether companies distributing irradiated food, which has been exposed to ionising radiation for preservation, disease elimination or pest reduction, should still be forced to explicitly label their products.

Some mangoes are treated using irradiation. Credit:Natalie Boog

The practice, which numerous international health bodies have described as safe and effective, is not widespread in Australia, limited mainly to some types of mango.

The current code requires all foods treated through radiation or containing irradiated ingredients to be labelled with a statement informing people about the practice.
Facebook has apologised to users on the other side of the world from the suicide bombing in Pakistan who received computer-addressed notices asking if they were safe.

Facebook users as far away as New York showed notifications they received on Twitter.

"Unfortunately, many people not affected by the crisis received a notification asking if they were okay," Facebook said in a post on its site.

"This kind of bug is counter to the product's intent... We apologise to anyone who mistakenly received the notification."
A 33-year-old Maylands man has died after his motorcycle crashed into a tree north-east of Perth, bringing the Easter long weekend road toll to three.

At 12.10pm on Monday the man was riding a purple Kawasaki Motor Cycle on Guildford Road, near Dinsdale Road, Gidgegannup, when police believe he failed to negotiate a bend, veered to the left of the carriageway and hit a tree.

Western Australia has reportedly recorded its second fatal crash for the Easter long weekend. Credit:Rachel Cary/Nine News Perth

Emergency services, including the RAC Rescue Helicopter, were called but the man died at the scene.

Anyone who may have information in relation to this crash is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au
Shane Paris Sissoko shortly before his death in 2001. Credit:Family photo "I can't explain human behaviour. Nobody can explain human behaviour," Mason said Thursday in delivering his verdict. "And I think we all know enough, at this age in our lives, that you can't judge by appearances." Sissoko had been convicted before in the death - in 2002 - and was sentenced to life in prison. He appealed, lost, and later asserted that he'd had ineffective lawyering during the earlier case. Last year, a different Montgomery Circuit judge, Ronald Rubin, agreed that Sissoko deserved a new trial because his original defence lawyer had failed to call a pediatric neuroradiologist as a witness to discuss Shane's injuries or medical condition, and instead relied on a less qualified neuropathologist. Sissoko remained locked up pending the outcome of the new trial. Rubin's opinion underscored the medical debates at the heart of the case. In Sissoko's new trial, prosecutors said that he inflicted head trauma on Shane. Defence lawyers said prosecutors could not prove what happened and that Shane died from an accident or natural causes.

"This is a medical mystery," an attorney for Sissoko, Robert Bonsib, told Mason at trial. "Killing his son was not his plan. His son died. He was as devastated as anybody by it, and he's had to spend a long time in jail." Each side was able to present a case because there were no marks on Shane, or as Mason put it: "The trauma was insufficient to leave external evidence of the point of the impact." In the end, Mason concluded that medical evidence, along with the life insurance plan, showed Sissoko had planned and willfully killed Shane. "The defendant inflicted abusive head trauma upon the deceased that was the cause of his death - by either shaking and/or causing soft impact trauma to the child," Mason said. Sissoko returned to jail and is set to receive a new sentence May 26.

For Shane's mother, Paris, the judge's verdict came as a huge relief. "Like a weight lifted off my shoulders," she said after the hearing. She is now 34 and has a 9-year-old daughter, Shanna. About three years ago, she said, she began telling Shanna about Shane. "You have a baby brother," Paris said. She regularly visits Shane's grave. On his birthday and at holidays, she will leave presents - a teddy bear, a kite, an Easter basket. "Stuff I think he'd like," Paris said. In 1999, she was still in high school in Montgomery County when she and Sissoko started dating. "My first real boyfriend," she said.

In the fall of 2000, the two learned Paris was pregnant. A short time later, Sissoko went to Florida to attend college. He later asked Paris to terminate the pregnancy. "I don't want you to have it anymore," he said, according to court records. Sissoko returned to Maryland, and on June 29, 2001, was at Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring for Shane's birth. Sissoko moved in with Paris and Shane, and took a job at a lock and security company, according to court records. It was around this time, Mason said, that Sissoko began pursuing the $US750,000 ($998,000) life insurance policy, naming himself as sole beneficiary. On August 18, 2001, a representative from State Farm told Sissoko that Shane would have to have a medical evaluation, prosecutors Deborah Feinstein and Sherri Koch wrote in court papers. Sissoko made the arrangements, telling Paris a doctor would visit their home, but that the visit was related to a health insurance matter. When Paris questioned that, Sissoko told her he would cancel the appointment, but he didn't - and arranged to have the evaluation done while Paris was at work, court files show.

Around that time, as Paris learned of messages left at their home from State Farm. Sissoko said they were related to car insurance and renter's insurance. In making his ruling, Mason spoke chiefly about medical evidence. But he also homed in on the life insurance. "Any reasonable person is going to ask: 'Why would you put a $US750,000 policy on a newborn infant?' " Mason said from the bench. "It seems to make no sense, just on its face." Mason addressed what Sissoko had told an investigator years earlier: That the policy was a form of college savings plan. But the judge noted Sissoko was making $US1,500 a month, yet was signing up for a policy that would cost him $US150 a month. "It frankly defies logic and reason," Mason said.
Washington: Fresh from Democratic presidential primary wins over the weekend in three US states, Bernie Sanders has claimed political momentum he said could help him win the backing of Democratic power brokers in his race against Hillary Clinton.

Senator Sanders easily won nominating contests in Alaska, Washington and Hawaii on Saturday. His latest remarks reflect his plan to chip away at Mrs Clinton's commanding lead in the number of delegates needed to win the party's nomination.

Interviewed by US broadcasters on Sunday, Senator Sanders said Democratic "super-delegates", who can change their allegiance, might rally behind him because some polls suggest he has a better chance than Mrs Clinton of beating a Republican candidate.
Brussels: Belgian authorities on Monday conceded another enormous blunder in their investigation into the attacks last week on Brussels. They freed a man they had charged with terrorism and murder, acknowledging that he had been mistakenly identified as a bomber in a dark hat and white coat in an airport surveillance photo.

The man, who was arrested Thursday and charged Friday, was released after three days in custody, during which some officials publicly vilified him as a terrorist. On Monday, the police said that the real attacker remained at large and they issued a new plea to the public to help identify one of the men who blew up a departures area at Brussels Airport.

The release of the man - who has been identified by the Belgian news media and Belgian officials as Faycal Cheffou, who has called himself a freelance journalist - is a stunning setback for the Belgian authorities, who have struggled for more than a year to get a handle on the growing threat of Islamic State militants. Officials have acknowledged serious missteps, including a failure to piece together vital pieces of evidence that might have averted the attacks last week.
Islamabad: A suicide bomber set off a powerful blast close to children's swings in a public park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore, killing at least 69 people and wounding about 300, rescue workers and officials said.

The blast on Sunday evening in a parking lot at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, one of the largest parks in Lahore, was within a few metres of the swings in a park crowded with families on the Easter holiday, said Haider Ashraf, a senior police official.

"I was standing near the rollercoaster when the blast occurred," said a ten-year-old boy who gave his name as Usman Ghani, and was being treated for minor injuries at Sheikh Zayed Hospital. "I saw fire afterward. There were a lot of people in the park. It was so crowded that people had to break the boundary wall near the gate to cross over and run away."
More than 35,000 people have signed a petition to allow firearms inside the Republican National Convention in July, just weeks after the party's frontrunner Donald Trump warned the event could provoke "riots".

Firearms are currently not permitted inside the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, known as "the Q," where the gathering - which nominates the party's presidential candidate - will take place.

Guns aren't allowed in the convention venue but the new petition aims to change that. Credit:Bloomberg

The petition, posted last Monday on Change.org, sought only 5,000 signatures but has since taken off, topping 35,000 by Easter Monday morning. It was posted by an author identified only as "N.A." from Cleveland, but the user profile appears to have been deleted from the website.

Asked about the petition, Mr Trump said he was a strong supporter of gun rights but said he hadn't read it and would want to "study the fine print."
A small, idiosyncratic and proudly placid country, Belgium has none of the long and bloody entanglements in Muslim lands that have made the United States and neighbouring France such obvious targets for global jihad. Yet with its large communities of often poor and poorly integrated Muslim immigrants and its own deeply rooted divisions of language, geography and politics, Belgium finds itself at the centre of Europe's struggle with terrorism and a glaring example of the obstacles blocking the way. The scene inside the Brussels airport following the explosions. How the lengthy preparations for Tuesday's attacks - by militants who either were or should have been on the authorities' radar and, in some cases, with ties to the November attacks in Paris - could go undetected has stirred dismay and anger from politicians and also the public, as well as from allies in Europe and beyond. "Why such repeated dysfunctions?" Marco Van Hees, a member of the Belgian Parliament, asked the interior minister and two other ministers who were summoned on Friday to explain the failure. "We are certainly not dealing here with just a glitch, a little bug, but a deep structural problem." Police man a check point during a police raid in the suburb of Schaerbeek in Brussels on Thursday. Credit:Alastair Grant

That Belgium has a serious problem with jihadi militancy has been clear for years, particularly since January of last year, when the police raided a terrorist hideaway in the eastern town of Verviers and foiled what the authorities said was a major plot. That success, however, masked rather than solved the problem, which exploded with brutal horror in Paris, when militants, many of them Belgians, killed 130 people with bombs made in the Brussels district of Schaerbeek, the same area that would later house the bomb-making workshop on Max Roos Street. How was it possible, members of Parliament asked, that two of the suicide bombers in the Brussels attacks, Ibrahim el-Bakraoui and his younger brother Khalid, both residents on Max Roos Street since the beginning of the year, had managed to go undetected for so long? And all this despite a record of violent crime in Belgium and, in the case of the older brother, a clear warning from Turkey in June that he was on his way back to Europe after being arrested as a suspected terrorist while on his way to Syria? Police use water cannon to try to disperse demonstrators at the site of one of the memorials to the victims of the recent Brussels attacks. Credit:Alastair Grant And was it really true, the lawmakers demanded, that the authorities had received a precise tip in December about the possible whereabouts of Salah Abdeslam, the only known survivor among the terrorists responsible for the Paris attacks, who was finally captured in Brussels on March 18? He was found at the address cited in the December tip-off, which had not been acted on because it had not been passed up the police chain of command. Jan Jambon, the interior minister, told legislators he could not comment because an inquiry was underway into who had known what and when about the possible location of Abdeslam, who until his capture on March 18 had been Europe's most wanted man.

Hundreds of people come together at Place de la Bourse in Brussels to mourn the victims. Credit:AP At the hearing Friday, questions were also raised about whether the Brussels attacks could have been avoided if Abdeslam had been subjected to extensive and tough questioning immediately after his arrest. Instead, he was questioned a full day later, and then only about the Paris attacks. Insisting he was only a bit player in Belgium's jihadist network, he gave no information about any impending attack, the authorities said. The Belgian federal prosecutor's office issued a statement Friday saying that Abdeslam, who was shot in the leg during his arrest, was not questioned immediately because of his need for medical treatment. In a sign the Belgian authorities had the el-Bakraoui brothers in their sights before they carried out their attacks, interrogators presented Abdeslam with photographs of the siblings after his capture and asked if he knew them. According to excerpts from the March 19 interrogation obtained by Le Monde, Abdeslam firmly denied knowing the men who three days later would subject Brussels to its bloodiest attack since World War II. The Belgians dropped the matter. Whether Abdeslam knew about the attacks being planned for Brussels is still not known, but he certainly knew at least some of the militants who carried them out. The most notable was Najim Laachraoui, 24, who grew up in Schaerbeek and is thought by investigators to have run the bomb-making atelier on Max Roos Street and an earlier workshop on Henri Berge Street where explosives were assembled for the Paris attacks.

Laachraoui's DNA was found on at least two suicide vests used in Paris, providing the most definitive link so far between the terrorist plots in Paris and Brussels. In September, while using a false identity card, he was stopped along with Abdeslam at the Hungarian-Austrian border, but was not detained. He then rented a house in Auvelais, Belgium, that was used by the Paris attackers. Laachraoui, like Abdeslam and the suspected architect of the Paris attacks, Abdelhamid Abaaoud, is a veteran of the conflict in Syria. He traveled there in February 2013, helping to blaze a jihadi trail that has since been taken by hundreds of other young Muslims from Belgium, Europe's biggest source of jihadi fighters relative to population size. Bernard Clerfayt, the mayor of Schaerbeek, said he had known Laachraoui had gone to Syria but had been at a loss about how to respond. Thinking that Laachraoui would not return to Belgium, he said the Schaerbeek borough had struck him off the electoral roll in 2015 but had been powerless to do more. Unlike Molenbeek, which has been swamped by the police since the Paris attacks and was the target of raids during the hunt for Abdeslam, Schaerbeek offers a mix of wealthy and immigrant neighbourhoods, a diversity that until the attacks here had spared it from intense scrutiny as a jihadi base.

Laachraoui's links to and familiarity with the area, where the father of the el-Bakraoui brothers ran a butcher's shop, helps explain the choice of Schaerbeek for their bomb-making workshop on Max Roos Street. Rodrigues, the building's owner, said he saw Laachraoui visit the building two or three times a week. Bought last year by Rodrigues, who promptly evicted the previous residents and began renovating the rundown property, it was mostly empty except for builders, meaning that young men arriving with barrels of chemicals were unlikely to arouse much suspicion. Rodrigues said Ibrahim and Khalid el-Bakraoui were his first tenants, and they had provided him with fake identity papers and bogus pay slips to obtain a one-year lease. Three others, including a man since identified as Laachraoui, visited regularly. The smell in their apartment was horrendous, the owner said, recalling how he had seen on the floor two large fans similar to ones found on construction sites, and an exhaust fan on the wall. Such fans would be useful in the final stages of preparing TATP, the homemade peroxide-based explosives used in the bombings Tuesday, and also by the November suicide bombers in Paris. After breaking into the apartment Tuesday morning, police officers found 30 pounds of TATP - enough for another powerful bomb - as well as nearly 40 gallons of acetone and 8 gallons of hydrogen peroxide, materials used in producing TATP. They also found a suitcase full of nails and metal bolts, used to make bombs more lethal, as well as an Islamic State flag.
Lesbos: The Greek government said Monday it would set up loudspeakers at the country's border with Macedonia to try and persuade thousands of refugees and migrants to ignore false rumours that the Balkan route to central Europe will reopen.

More than 15,000 people - nearly a third of the total stranded in Greece - are refusing to move to government-built shelters around the country, and remain at the border with Macedonia and at the port of Piraeus, near Athens.

A spokesman for a government refugee crisis committee said authorities were struggling to counter false rumours on social media that borders could reopen.
Beijing: The publication of an incendiary open letter calling for the resignation of President Xi Jinping has triggered widening reprisals from China's security apparatus in an apparent attempt to find those responsible.

In a demonstration of the increasing lengths Mr Xi is taking to crush dissent, the mainland-based relatives of two prominent overseas Communist Party critics have been detained in connection to the broadening investigation this past week.

Chang Ping, a well-known Chinese investigative journalist now based in Germany as a commentator, said his two younger brothers and a younger sister were taken by police in China's western Sichuan province on Monday.

Wen Yunchao, an activist living in New York, said his parents and younger brother in southern China had been missing since Tuesday. Mr Wen said Chinese authorities suspect him of helping to disseminate the letter, and have abducted his family as leverage for him to reveal information on the letter's source.
Amsterdam: Dutch anti-terrorism police have arrested a 32-year-old man in Rotterdam on suspicion of preparing an attack on France and also detained three other people, national prosecutors say.

"French authorities on Friday requested the arrest of the French citizen, who had been identified in a terrorism investigation," prosecutors said in a statement on Sunday.

He was suspected of "involvement in preparing a terrorist attack".
It's being branded the 'Easter egg hunt from hell'.

What was supposed to be a cherished Easter tradition turned into a mess after pushy parents caused a scene at an egg hunt in the United States over the weekend. The Easter Bunny never even got to make an appearance before event organisers had to cancel the entire show.

Saturday's event at the visitor centre of lolly company Pez in Orange, Connecticut, drew hundreds of people, some of whom ignored the rules. Children were trampled, baskets were shattered, the Easter myth was left badly tarnished.

Local news outlets are reporting that children were "trampled, parents knocked over children and eggs were stolen out of peoples' baskets".
The WCO undertook a monitoring mission on the support provided to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) in the framework of the WCO-WACAM Project, funded by Sweden, from 15 to 17th of March 2016 in Accra.

The WCO and GRA took stock on the progress realized by GRA in the fields of stakeholder engagement, human resource management and strategic management since May 2015, which marked the last project input in-country.

The parties noted with satisfaction that visible and tangible results have been achieved in the field of stakeholder engagement, which were achieved  among others - through the regular consultations held by the Joint Consultative Committee at the Kotoko International Airport in Accra. In a digital world, the WCO particularly acknowledged the initiative of this committees Members to use a social media platform to establish restricted communication and enhance the information flow among them to quickly solve operational issues.

Concerning human resource management, the GRA has informed the WCO that it has undertaken some preliminary modernization and reform efforts in this area but it would benefit from the WCO-WACAM Project support, especially in devising a roadmap for the implementation of competency-based Human Resource Management policies, processes and tools to align with the WCO Framework of Principles on Customs Professionalism.

In the area of Strategic Management, it was apparent to both parties that the GRA has made substantive progress in the field of strategic planning. The GRA, however, has expressed its wish to associate the WCO for the development of its next strategic plan and on project management matters to ensure the effective implementation of the future strategic plan.

Based on this monitoring mission, the WCO has made some proposals and recommendations to the GRA for the cooperation under the WACAM Project in 2016.

For more information about this mission and the WCO-WACAM Project, please contact the WCO-Sweden Programme Director, Richard Chopra (Richard.chopra@wcoomd.org)
A pair of bodies discovered in Kentucky Lake this week
By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 28, 2016 | 06:20 AM | PADUCAH, KY

Average retail gasoline prices in Kentucky have risen about a penny per gallon in the past week, averaging $1.99 a gallon Sunday, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 2,623 gas outlets in Kentucky. This compares with the national average that has increased almost 6 cents per gallon to $2.04 a gallon.

Kentucky prices yesterday were 40 cents per gallon lower than the same day one year ago, but are 32 cents per gallon higher than a month ago.

In Paducah, prices are ranging from $1.78 to $1.99 a gallon, about where they were last week.

According to GasBuddy historical data, gasoline prices on March 28 in Kentucky have ranged widely over the last five years: $2.39/g in 2015, $3.56/g in 2014, $3.60/g in 2013, $3.88/g in 2012 and $3.58/g in 2011.

"The rise in gasoline prices comes as refinery maintenance begins kicking into high gear," said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy.

"It's not a fun time to be filling up as gasoline prices see their typical seasonal rise. However, this year's jump thus far has seen average prices remain well below year ago levels across much of the nation," DeHaan said. "As crude oil prices fell gently last week back under $40 per barrel, motorists shouldn't necessarily expect the worst increases to be over just yet. Until the bulk of refinery maintenance season wraps up in late May, we likely won't see the lower oil prices immediately bring relief to the pump as oil and gasoline inventories continue to move in the opposite direction."

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By West Kentucky Star Staff Mar. 28, 2016 | 03:52 PM | PADUCAH, KY

A man facing murder charges in Marshall County is now facing additional arson, theft and other charges in McCracken County.On the morning of March 24, a resident at 4102 Schneidman Road arrived at her home and discovered it was full of smoke and on fire. Both the Kentucky Fire Marshal and McCracken Sheriffs detectives responded to investigate the fire and its cause.During the investigation, detectives determined that the fire had been deliberately set, and the home had been burglarized. Jewelry, and four guns were stolen. The resident's cat was also found dead in the home from what appeared to be smoke inhalation.Police identified the suspect as 38-year-old Joseph L. Cunningham of Paducah, and began attempting to locate him late Thursday evening for questioning. The following morning, deputies were notified by the Mt. Vernon, IL Police Department that they had Cunningham, and another suspect, 40-year-old Kristy Keener in custody for a theft in their jurisdiction. The suspects also reportedly had suspected stolen property from Shooters Supply in Paducah. Deputies said the vehicle Cunningham and Keener was stopped in also had several firearms inside, which police suspected as being stolen from the Schneidman Road burglary the day before.Shooter's Supply surveillance footage reportedly showed that both Cunningham and Keener were in the store Thursday afternoon and stole several pairs of boots and camouflage clothing. The two suspects are believed to have been wearing some of the stolen clothing at the time of their arrest.Deputies said the vehicle that Cunningham and Keener were in at the time of their arrest belonged to Gary Lambert of Paducah. Cunningham faces a murder charge in Marshall County in connection with Lambert's death. Lambert's body was found Friday in the Possum Trot-Sharpe area, and Cunningham was arrested later that day.Cunningham now faces additional charges of 2nd degree arson, 1st degree burglary, possession of firearm by a convicted felon, cruelty to animals, and theft by Unlawful Taking. Keener is charged with theft by unlawful taking.Deputies said they will begin extradition proceedings to get the suspects brought back to Kentucky to answer to the McCracken County charges.

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By National Weather Service Mar. 26, 2016 | 01:07 PM | PADUCAH, KY

Easter Sunday had sunny start, but late in the afternoon a broken line of strong to severe thunderstorms developed over parts of western Kentucky, southern Illinois, and southwest Indiana.

Most storm reports were related to hail of varying sizes, including three-fourths to one-inch hail in Johnson and Williamson counties in southern Illinois, and quarter-sized hail in Graves County, KY.

The most significant reports were damage associated with tornadic circulation that developed over extreme northeast Trigg County, moved through northern Christian County, into southern Muhlenberg County.

Just before 7pm Sunday there was a report of an unconfirmed tornado just north of the Cerulean community in Trigg County, where a barn was reportedly blown down. There was also damage to a home's roof and a garage building. Several storage sheds were destroyed and power poles broken.

At 7:09pm a barn was reported to have its roof blown off in Christian County on Princeton Road northwest of Hopkinsville. Several houses were damaged, and several power outages were reported.

At 7:19pm there was a report of a barn completely destroyed near Old Palestine Road in Christian County, and several homes heavily damaged.

At 7:22pm a funnel cloud was sighted along Crofton Fruit Hill Road in Christian County.

No injuries were reported with the storms.

A National Weather Service storm survey team will tour the affected areas this week to investigate the damage and make an assessment.

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By The Associated Press

Mar. 27, 2016 | NASHVILLE, TN

By The Associated Press Mar. 27, 2016 | 09:52 PM | NASHVILLE, TN

Communities across Kentucky and Tennessee are reeling from the news that two young natives were among those killed in the terrorist attacks in Brussels last week.



Stephanie and Justin Shults were confirmed dead Saturday, ending their families' agonizing international search for the young couple living abroad.



Vanderbilt University, where the couple met while attending the Owen Graduate School of Management, issued a statement that said the "bright young couple chose, in the spirit of discovery, to become global citizens in order to grow, to learn and to broaden their perspective."



"They represented the very best of Vanderbilt and Owen," the University wrote.



President Barack Obama called their parents to share a similar message, that the couple epitomized all that is great about America.



Justin Shults was originally from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and his wife, Stephanie, was a native of Lexington, Kentucky.



They were dropping Stephanie's mother off at the airport. They waved goodbye to her just moments before the bombs went off, a family member said. Her mother, Carolyn Moore, was knocked to the ground by the explosion. She searched but could not find them in the chaos.



Families of both rushed to Europe to try to aide in the search. It grew particularly torturous earlier this week when Justin Shults' family heard from a federal official that they had been found alive. After a brief celebration, they learned the information was incorrect.



Betty Newsom told WKYT-TV that the family is relieved to be able to focus now on the good memories they have of Justin and Stephanie Shults.



Relatives described them as generous and kind, who moved to Brussels for work and made the most of their European lives. They traveled to a new country every month and invited their American relatives to visit.



"She never had a negative opinion of anyone," Newsom told the station. "She was a peacemaker. If there were family and friends upset she was the one trying to make peace. She is the kind of person you wish everyone was. Justin was so protective of her because she was such a tender heart."



Their families said they were glad the couple had an exciting life, full of adventure and love.



"I never met a single person that didn't like him," Justin's brother, Levi Sutton, tweeted. "He worked hard his whole life and achieved goals that most could only dream about. He traveled the world leaving each destination better than when he arrived."
Rita Redmond was a true lady who felt that every pupil had something to gift to the world
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  The vast majority of the 26,000 Syrian refugees who arrived in Canada by the end of last month showed up healthy, newly published government data suggests.

But while the study by Public Health Agency of Canada staff said the newcomers posed no risk to public health, it noted it will take time for chronic medical and mental-health conditions to present and health-care professionals need to remain vigilant.

The Immigration Department has published data on some of the newly arrived Syrians, but the public health study is the first comprehensive look at the entire group.

The researchers focused on communicable diseases among those resettled in Canada as part of the Liberal program to bring 25,000 people here by the end of February.

All applicants had medical exams as part of the program, though how many were rejected for medical reasons is unknown. The review found of those accepted, two had potential cases of non-infectious tuberculosis.

None tested positive for syphilis or HIV. Ten were sent to hospital upon arrival for possible communicable diseases, though none ended up a concern to public health. Another 54 were hospitalized upon arrival for other urgent reasons.

Large-scale refugee movements place pressure on health-care systems, both in their immediate response and as part of long-term resettlement efforts, the study, published this month in the Canadian Communicable Disease Report, concluded.

As Syrians integrate into Canada, meeting their longer-term, health-care needs will call for a seamless network of health-care providers, supported by community partners.

The study observed refugees tend to under-report chronic health conditions for fear of being rejected and estimated about five per cent of the arriving Syrians have some kind ongoing health-care need. Mental-health issues will also take time to surface, the report said.

It also found a number of children arrived with illnesses including cancers, seizures and developmental disorders. Malnutrition and children with intellectual disabilities were also observed.

The incidence of those appears to be higher than in the general Canadian population, said Dr. Anna Banerji, the pediatrician who screened Syrian children as they landed in Toronto.

She said its not unusual for government-assisted refugees to have complex health requirements  they are selected for resettlement on the basis of vulnerability and medical needs contribute to that status.

Its also common for settlement agencies to have no inkling of incoming medical needs, but the Syrian program amplified the challenge with so many people arriving in such a short time.

In her day-to-day work with refugees, Banerji usually has time for a detailed physical exam, blood work, vaccinations and parasite checks. With the Syrians, she was just putting out fires because of the volume of arrivals.

Linking children up with the right health care was also more difficult because of housing shortages delaying getting them out of airport hotels and into permanent homes.

Eventually they will settle through, but it wasnt an easy time for many families, Banerji said.

The report noted the most immediate need upon arrival was catching up on immunizations and dental care.

In Toronto, more than 500 dental emergencies were addressed. Patients of all ages had severe diseases in their mouth and werent able to sleep or eat because of the pain, said Dr. Hazel Stewart, the director of dental and oral health services at Toronto Public Health.

The drive now is to connect everyone to ongoing dental care, as its not just a health issue, Stewart said.

Some of them are missing front teeth, and employment becomes a challenge if youre not able to speak and smile.

 with files from Paola Loriggio in Toronto
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

VANCOUVER  A British Columbia man charged in what the U.S. District Attorneys office has called a brutal sexual assault has been released from custody in Denver.

Colby Messer has been charged with six counts of sexual assault after a 27-year-old woman alleged she was sexually assaulted at a hotel last November, a news release from the Office of the Denver District Attorney says.

The 30-year-old man from Vancouver Island was charged last week, the release says.

Messer was released after posting a US$300,000 cash bond, spokeswoman Lynn Kimbrough of the District Attorneys Office says in an email on Monday.

The conditions of his release include that he must surrender his passport, remain in Denver and wear a GPS tracking device, she says.

Ken Eichner, a Denver-based lawyer listed in court documents as representing Messer, declined to comment on the case.

The arrest warrant and an affidavit from police detailing the womans allegations that have been filed in court say three other men from Vancouver Island are suspects in the case, but their identities have not been released.

The affidavit alleges that the woman was out celebrating her birthday with a friend when they met two men who offered to buy them drinks.

The woman told police that she remembers going to a bar and having drinks with the men, but does not remember going with them to a hotel.

She said she woke up naked on a hotel room bed, bleeding and felt that she had been sexually assaulted.

The documents allege that objects available in the hotel room were used in the sexual assaults.

Denver police identified four suspects by looking at hotel records and surveillance footage.

Officers contacted police in Vancouver, who told them that none of the men had a criminal record, the affidavit says.

The document says Vancouver police told their Denver counterparts that driver licence records for the four men showed two of the men lived in Victoria and two lived in Port Alberni, B.C.

The affidavit says all four returned to Canada the day after the assault.

Messer was arrested in Las Vegas last week.

It is my understanding that he had travelled to Las Vegas to propose to his girlfriend, Kimbrough says in an email.

Messer is scheduled to appear in Denver court Tuesday.
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

OTTAWA  Doctors dispatched to a northern Ontario reserve to treat children with skin conditions say remote communities are dealing with an ongoing medical crisis, the result of a shortage of medical services.

Three physicians from the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority have written an open letter calling for more resources to deal with persistent problems at the Kashechewan First Nation and elsewhere.

The letter, released by northern Ontario MP Charlie Angus, urges Canadians not to tolerate the level of health care access available in the area.

This ongoing medical crisis is related to access to medical services, the letter said. Canadians would not, and should not accept the access to health care that those in these remote communities live with on a daily basis.

Access to nurses and support services in communities is inadequate, it continues, and physician availability is also limited.Any care beyond primary care is provided away from the home community.

The report echoes conclusions presented last spring by the federal auditor general, who found quality health care in remote First Nations communities is sorely lacking.

Unfortunately, it is not something that is news to us, said Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler.

It is something that has been an issue for many of our communities for a long time now.

NAN, a political organization representing northern Ontario communities, declared a public health emergency last month.

Sub-standard health care and the lack of access to mental health services is so common it is raised by First Nations leaders and frontline workers on a daily basis, Fiddler noted.

It is a never-ending battle to try to address all the issues we are seeing in the communities, he said.

That desperation was expressed by Grand Chief Jonathan Solomon of the Mushkegowuk Council when NAN publicly announced its emergency declaration in February.

We are in a state of shock, Solomon said at the time, wiping away tears. When is enough? It is sad. Waiting is not an option any more.

Angus said he is also troubled by what he sees as a full-blown health crisis.

It seems to have to be so high to get anybodys attention in Canada when the ongoing effect for the people in the community  is deteriorating health, sickness and sometimes death, he said.

The issues playing out on reserves are not surprising, Angus added.

They are the inevitable result of continual underfunding, treating their communities as though they are  displacement camps, he said. People are going to get sick. Things are going to fall apart.

In a statement released last week, Philpott called the situation in Kashechewan another troubling reminder of the social and health challenges faced by many First Nation and Inuit communities.

We have seen states of emergency declared in Northern Ontario, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, she said. We have read painful stories of suicide, addiction and disease.

It is unacceptable such conditions exist in a nation as rich as Canada, she added.

I have spoken to First Nations Leaders who are deeply concerned for their people, but just as deeply committed to finding real, lasting solutions, Philpott said.

I have assured them of our governments firm resolve to work with them in partnership, to find those solutions. But this will not happen overnight.

with files from Colin Perkel in Toronto

Follow @kkirkup and @perkel on Twitter
Opinion

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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Manitobans go to the polls April 19 to decide which party they believe has the best vision and plan to lead the province over the next four years.

There are many factors voters take into account when heading to the ballot box. Our organizations believe Manitobans should be considering which party has the best vision and plan to grow the economy when casting that important vote.

Over the last couple of years, much has been made about the Manitoba economys resilience to the global volatility that has created uncertainty and challenges in other provinces. According to a 2015 report released by the Conference Board of Canada, Manitoba was to be one of the leading provincial economies with its real gross domestic product to increase by 2.9 per cent in 2015 and a nation-leading three per cent in 2016.

From a sector perspective, the conference board predicted the construction industry to grow by almost 10 per cent annually over the next two years. Transportation and warehousing are expected to keep making strong gains of 3.4 per cent in 2015 and 3.9 per cent in 2016. The improving U.S. economy, the drop in the Canadian dollar and lower oil prices are also expected to contribute to boosting manufacturing-based exports and, following a difficult year in 2014, the agriculture sector is expected to continue to rebound.

Thanks to fairly strong population growth, demand for housing is rising and employment in Manitoba is expected to grow by two per cent. Retail sales are expected to grow by 3.6 per cent.

But while organizations such as the conference board predict Manitobas economy will lead the nation in growth in 2016, one has to wonder if we should expect more. The Manitoba government recently announced a rising provincial deficit of $773 million and Statistics Canada is showing a two per cent decrease in full-time employment from a year ago.

Based on recent developments and the potential opportunities before us, our organizations suggest Manitoba should be performing much better.

In todays globally competitive business environment, it is imperative government create a climate that attracts new business and allows existing businesses to grow and thrive. For Manitoba to reach its full potential, we offer seven key public policy pillars we believe political parties must address in their 2016 provincial election platforms to demonstrate the political commitment to growing the provincial economy:

1. Fiscal competitiveness

Manitoba must have an effective and fiscally prudent government, committed to creating a competitive tax jurisdiction to attract and retain new investment.

2. Venture Capital

Commitment to the creation of an accessible venture capital fund and supportive tax-credit policies to leverage investment in the growth of new and existing businesses.

3. Global trade

Commitment to pursuing an expanded global trade profile for Manitoba that derives substantial economic benefit.

4. Infrastructure investment

Commitment to a strategic, sustained, disciplined approach to investment in Manitobas core infrastructure.

5. Aboriginal engagement

Commitment to the creation of an aboriginal engagement strategy to ensure inclusion and partnership in economic growth policies.

6. Skilled workforce

Commitment to attracting, educating, training and retaining a skilled, responsive workforce is fundamental to ongoing economic growth.

7. New fiscal deal for municipalities

Commitment to address the existing fiscal framework between the province and municipalities to meet the challenges of the future.

For Manitoba to achieve the level of growth and prosperity needed to take its economy to the next level, political leaders need share to share with residents their commitment to ensuring economic growth is the driving force behind decisions made.

Chuck Davidson is president of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. He wrote this on behalf of the Business Council of Manitoba, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, Manitoba Home Builders Association and Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.
Opinion

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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

I teach the history of Winnipeg at the University of Manitoba. I sometimes talk to my students about Gordon Sinclairs award-winning book, Cowboys and Indians, which tells the story of the 1988 shooting death of John Joseph Harper, executive director of the Island Lakes Tribal Council, at the hands of police. Its a very teachable book, unflinching in its exposure of the fallout of racism and police violence.

Sinclair has lived through and written about multiple news stories over the past 30 years that inform readers just how far we are from any meaningful equality for aboriginal peoples. So I was caught off-guard by the unexamined cliches in his articles about Wab Kinew. Sinclair tells the readers that Kinew is scary and violent  implying that he is just one layer of white civilization (a university degree, perhaps?) from brawling brutality. Watch out if you challenge him, hes gonna punch you, Sinclair suggests. Hes got anger.

I am just so saddened by this. Because it reveals, doesnt it, how thin is the veneer of reconciliation. The frustration felt by aboriginal people is not just about their individual circumstances, as difficult as they have often been. It is about the repression of their people and our societys relentless double standard, without which we cant explain why history moves on and we dont: why the notion of inevitable progress towards a better and brighter future can feel pretty empty to an aboriginal person living in Canada today. A man like Wab Kinew, no matter the degree to which he works to prove himself as equal, by definition can never be perceived as anything other than an aboriginal man, barely more than a savage. Centuries of colonialism have thus defined him. So lamentably predictable is this trope. Sinclairs column expresses views that could have been (and were) written 100 years ago. So much for 2016.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS At right, Wab Kinew, NDP candidate for Fort Rouge with Premier Greg Selinger and supporters at Wab's campaign office Friday. Gord Sinclair/ Kristin Annable stories March 11 2016

Last year, a man who spent 13 years in residential schools (several of them at Assiniboia Residential School in Winnipeg) came to speak to my students. He was invited by an elder, who happened to be taking my class. Our guest speaker, like Kinew, had spent years trying to put his childhood behind him to create a life he wanted. He had succeeded eventually, but he didnt make himself sound like a saint. He was funny at times. It was a challenging moment. My students had to work through a problem: how does a common narrative of aboriginal victimhood that emphasizes our societys capacity for empathy (arent we amazing!) square with the obvious non-victimhood of the person to whom we were listening  a man who has found his own way. Not all of them were ready for that. But its hard to ignore when history becomes real in front of you.

Sinclairs characterization of Kinew reminds me of the struggle my non-aboriginal students faced in sorting through what it means to know aboriginal peoples and their histories, when they themselves do not live that legacy. I suspect Sinclair is discomfited by a man like Kinew, who has retained his human integrity and autonomy and claimed his own voice. Sinclair wants contrition. Anger suggests a spark of rebellion. What Sinclair appears to want is a straight-up victim, a tragic survivor. Kinew isnt interested in ending his story there. His people have been forced to play the role of victim for hundreds of years. It doesnt go anywhere.

Sinclair has always been interested in emotional reactions to events in our collective lives, so I can tell you the emotion that our class visit brought to me  respect for the mans courage but also anger at the blindness of Winnipegs residents. As several of my students who grew up in River Heights told me, Assiniboia Residential School was somehow wiped from their family histories of the neighbourhood. Their parents and grandparents claim to not even have known it existed. These aboriginal kids were literally their neighbours, and yet were invisible or have been rendered so by history.

Listening to his story, some of my students felt a bit embarrassed. I shared that feeling, because in many ways, I wonder if we deserve to have patiently explained to us the implications of colonial oppression, live and in person. And yet, people do this, again and again. Men and women stand up, and they try to explain to us, in simple language they think we might understand, what our governments, churches, and dare I say, voters, have wrought.

Kinew has stood up. Hes patiently told us, again and again, like the babes we really are. If Kinew is angry that we have still learned so little about how the past haunts our present, then he is entitled to that bit of righteous rage. Without it, his people would have long ago disappeared from this earth, as colonial governments so openly intended.

Esyllt Jones is a history professor at St. Johns College, University of Manitoba.
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Liberal leader Rana Bokhari promised Monday a Liberal government would balance the budget within six years, with no increase in taxes.

We can balance the budget over five or six years through economic growth and fiscal discipline, she declared.

But Bokhari attached a lot of conditions, and a lot of ifs.

Voters still dont know the effect of all of her election promises still to come, which Bokhari said would be in the $200 million range compared to the billions she claimed Greg Selinger and Brian Pallister are rolling out.

Bokharis numbers rely on spending the same amount each year servicing the existing debt, even given additional deficits shell run over the next few years  albeit she expects the growth of annual deficits to be progressively smaller. She forecasts higher transfer fees from the federal government.

And Bokhari gave herself an out if something unexpected occurs that could put Manitobans at risk, such as floods or forest fires that exceed annual expactations.

But more than anything, the Bokhari plan depends on senior civil servants finding ways to control spending without cutting jobs and without putting Manitobans at risk, including capping social services at two per cent a year.

Bokhari said she would hold spending increases in health to four per cent a year, in all aspects of public education to 2.5 per cent, and to all other core spending, including social services, to two per cent a year.

She would do that by giving senior civil servants a free hand to find savings, she said, but emphasized that it would be without cutting jobs or putting Manitoba families at risk.

Well be going through spending line-by-line, Bokhari said. If we want to get ourselves out of the Selinger mess, we have to control spending on everything.

Programs cant be funded by government dollars if they arent producing results, said Bokhari.

She said that the NDP under Selinger has not required that programs show outcomes are being met. If programs dont meet outcomes, a Liberal government wont fund them, Bokhari vowed. Our plan requires discipline.

We cant pretend magically were going to shake money out of people.

But asked several times to define outcomes in health, education, and social services, Bokhari would only say, A perfect example is poverty reduction.

Bokhari said she would provide the auditor with an additional $1 million for greater oversight of provincial spending.

Despite imposing tight controls, when there are reasons to spend more dollars, we will, Bokhari said. If it takes longer to balance the deficit, well do that. Were not going to put Manitobans at risk.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Liberal leader Rana Bokhari releases fiscal plan Monday in her campaign office with candidates.

Bokhari said she is not touching existing education tax credits, which includes the education property tax credit, rebates on education tax for farmland, and seniors education property tax rebates.

She will not change the provincial sales tax until at least 2023.

The NDP, to no ones surprise, was less than impressed.

A fiscal plan that has no costing for hundreds of millions of dollars in promises is not a plan, NDP campaign officials said in a news release. The Bokhari Liberal platform is either not thought through or insincere. Theyve made expensive promises they cant explain or account for, which means they either cant deliver or have no interest in delivering.

It appears that the Liberal campaign of the last few months has been nothing but easy sound bites with no substance or commitment behind them and no accountability. In other words, it has been a waste of Manitobans time. The fiscal plan released today just doesnt make sense, scoffed the NDP.

The sentiment was echoed by the Manitoba Progressive Conservatives.

The Liberals do not show how they will pay for any of their $200 million or more in promises, nor do they provide any details on how they would control spending.

The Liberals are proposing more of the same poor fiscal mismanagement Manitobans have gotten under the NDP. Manitobans deserve a better plan for a better Manitoba.

nick.martin@freepress.mb.ca
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba Progressive Conservatives, if elected, plan to double the amount of money allotted for post-secondary bursaries and scholarships to $20 million by encouraging more private donations.

PC Leader Brian Pallister said the plan will see the Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Initiative cap increased to $6.75 million. Currently, every dollar donated by the private sector is matched by the province to a max of $4.5 million. His plan would have the private sector leverage the remainder, bringing the overall total to $20.25 million. He described it as a throwback to former PC premier Gary Filmons program in the 1990s.

It was a one-third (government), two-thirds (the) private sector would come in and you would use the money to lever, Pallister said. The NDP changed it when they came in and changed the formula so less money was required to be private donor, more from the government  were going to change it back.

WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Progressive Conservative leader Brian Pallister speaks Monday at the University of Manitoba about how a new PC government will invest in post-secondary education.

Pallister made the announcement, flanked by students, at the University of Manitoba Monday.

Pallister said his plan will allow for 3,500 more Manitobans to attend post-secondary institutions. He said he will get the private sector on board by reducing barriers to private donors and working with groups such as the Business Council of Manitoba.

The business group lobby has an education award program for aboriginal students wanting to attend post-secondary school.

Under the Selinger government those barriers have been rising and they have been rising because of taxes eroding the incomes of students, said Pallister. They (business council) have told me that they have many more donors that would like to be part of the program, so we are going to work in partnership with them.

Last week, NDP Leader Greg Selinger pledged $40 million to replace student loans with grants, provide free tuition to students in care up to age 25, and double funding for the Manitoba Scholarship and Bursary Initiative. Mondau. Pallister described the promises as another part of Selingers fantasy package.

The Liberals have also pledged to turn Manitoba student loans into non-repayable grants starting in the 2016-17 academic year, at a cost of $10 million annually.

Both the Liberals and NDP criticized Pallisters emphasis on the private sector for the funds.

We support real spending on education, but Pallister is assuming two-thirds of his pledge will be picked up by the private sector and you know what happens when you assume, said Manitoba Liberal spokesman Mike Brown in a prepared statement.

NDP spokesman Andrew Tod called the plan bad for students, bad for families, and bad for colleges and universities, in a statement.

kristin.annable@freepress.mb.ca
The Beaver Dam Knights of Columbus have been active for 100 years, and will celebrate the milestone with special events on April 2.

Steve Haase has been compiling the local groups history, and recently shared some of the events that shaped the history of the Catholic fraternal group. The organization is national, and has a strong impact in churches and communities, wherever they might be.

There are 295 councils and 37,500 members in the state, said Haase. Theres a council in almost every city. Just about every Catholic Church has a K of C mens group.

The Beaver Dam council has nearly 200 members.

According to Haase, the group was founded by the Rev. Michael McGivney in 1882 to care for the widows and orphans of Irish Catholics.

Its a society, a fraternity  but its also an insurance company, Haase said. We were started before OSHA, before welfare, before Social Security, before all the worker protections that are in place today for employees. When a man got killed or injured on the worksite there was no safety net of any kind from the government, or the state, or the county. People were on their own and a lot of men joined some sort of fraternity for protection, for benefit, and to mingle and congregate together with people that they enjoyed being with.

Beaver Dams group is officially labeled Knights of Columbus Pope John XXIII Council 1837. The idea of forming a local council was discussed late in 1915, when a local group of Catholic men met in the upstairs Healy and Healy Law Offices at 112 S. Spring St. Edward Jacobs was named the special organizer and members of other councils helped in approving the organization and making sure the state and national protocols and procedures were observed.

The first meeting of the local council was held April 30, 1916. Its 52 charter members were led by the Rev. James W. Nellen  chaplain, John C. Healy  grand knight, George Hall  deputy grand knight, John E. OBrien  chancellor, Edward H. Jacobs  recorder, Michael J. Maier  financial secretary, Emil H. Peshak  treasurer, James F. Malone  lecturer, James T. Healy  advocate, William G. Liebig  warden, Albin Rake  inside guard, Clarence Zweck and Lawrence W. Flannagan  outside guards, and Michael A. Jacobs and Joseph Voreck  trustees.

The local council grew over time, and in 1924 it bought the McFetridge Building, built in 1897 at 102 Park Ave. (now the home of Water Technology). The council used the second floor for its meetings and rituals. The first floor housed such enterprises as The Palace Restaurant (shown in an early image of the building), Marine Bank and Gambles Department Store.

After a fire on Oct. 2, 1949, nearly destroyed the building, the clubhouse was renovated and updated. The building was sold to Water Technology in 1997, which also did a major remodel. The Knights still meet there, thanks to the generosity of owner Chuck Neuman.

Throughout its history the group has donated funds and support to countless causes including blood drives, Badger Boys/Girls State, supported local families suffering loss to fire, disaster or medical expenses (members and non-members), helped farmers pick corn during a weather challenged year, organized member camp-outs, helped implement a Just Say No to Drugs campaign in local schools, supported pro-life activities including the Pregnancy Support Center of Dodge County, honored local farmers, supported and financed Catholic events, promoted Catholicism, published a cookbook, held chicken barbecues and pig roasts, sold prints and steins with artwork by Frank Mittelstadt, erected a memorial to life at St. Peters Cemetery, supported vocations to religious life with donations to men and women attending seminaries and convents, built a handicap ramp for the New Beginnings Homeless Shelter, held an annual benefit and awareness campaign to support those suffering from intellectual disabilities (Tootsie Roll drive), and helped in other ways too numerous to mention.

A Centennial Celebration will be held Saturday, April 2, with a 4:30 p.m. Mass at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 511 S. Spring St.; followed by an open bar at The Watermark, 209 S. Center St.; a 7 p.m. dinner; and a program to follow. A limited number of tickets are available for $25 each or $45 per couple at Recheks Food Pride.
Marjorie Kerr

Marjorie Kerr, 95, of Portage, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Friday, March 25, 2016.

Marjorie Florence Brandt was born Nov. 10, 1920, in Fennimore, the daughter of Emil C. and Leona M. Brandt (nee Scott). She grew up on her fathers dairy farm just outside Fennimore and was a graduate of Fennimore High School. She attended Platteville State Teachers College (now UW-Platteville), and graduated with a degree in physical education from La Crosse State Teachers College (now UW-La Crosse), in 1943.

Marge moved to Portage in 1943 for her first teaching job, where she taught phys ed at Portage High School and later met her husband, Bob Kerr, after he returned from WWII service. They were married on July 23, 1946. She also taught a few years in Wisconsin Rapids while her husband was attending college in Stevens Point. After a couple of more years in Waupun and Green Bay, she moved back to Portage with her family, eventually starting to teach again in 1961. Over her 34 years of teaching, she also taught phys ed at the Portage Junior High, and health in Portage elementary schools.

She is survived by her children, Steven (Jacalyn Stetina) Kerr, Charles Kerr, and Kathy Kerr. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Rachel Kerr, Aaron Kerr, and Genevieve Kerr; along with her sister-in-law and many nieces and nephews. Marge was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert W. Kerr; her sister, Betty (Jim) Smith; and her brother, Norbert (Mary) Brandt.

A memorial celebration of Marges life will be held at noon, Saturday, at Portage Presbyterian Church, 120 W. Pleasant St., with Rev. David Hankins officiating. Private inurnment will be in Silver Lake Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be donated in Marges name to the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo at www.savingcranes.org or call 608-356-9462, ext. 101.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and staff at AngelsGrace Hospice in Oconomowoc for their compassionate care of Mom during her last days.

Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home (www.pmmfh.com) in Portage is assisting the family.
USDA announces $1 billion debt relief for 36,000 farmers

The USDA announced a program to provide $1.3B in debt relief for about 36,000 farmers who have fallen behind on loan payments or face foreclosure.




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Derrick C. LaForest

By: Tanya Malhotra

(Scroll down for video) A man was pulled out from his car unconscious after slamming into an ATM because a fast-food restaurant was closed, police in Massachusetts said.

Pittsfield police said that they have arrested 33-year-old Derrick C. LaForest, after being accused of deliberately ramming his car into an unused TD Bank ATM because he was angry that Taco Bell was closed at 1:30 a.m. on Thursday.

LaForest was charged with reckless operation of a motor vehicle and vandalism. He was booked into jail, and his bail was set at $500.

According to the police investigation, LaForest stopped at the Taco Bell drive-thru window and started honking his caras horn.

When no one responded, LaForest continued to honk his horn for at least two minutes straight before a staff member came out and told him that the restaurant was closed.

LaForest then began speeding down the drive-thru lane and accelerated to about 80 miles per hour. He hit a curb, lost control of the car, hit a second sidewalk and crashed into a small structure with the ATM.

The car and the ATM suffered extensive damage. Taco Bell employees went to the car and dragged him out unconscious.

He had a cut over his eye and refused medical treatment after he woke up.
Store clerk Rebecca Montanom grabbing the baby

By: Wayne Morin

(Scroll down for video) A store clerk in Colorado, was hailed a hero after saving a baby from falling out of her motheras arm.

Jessica Heinonen was at a convenience store buying a soda. She was standing at the checkout counter with her baby, Anabelle, in her arms when she suddenly began feeling faint.

Store clerk Rebecca Montanom realized that the mother was not okay so she grabbed the baby from the Heinonenas arm. She then tried to hold onto Heinonen as she fell back.

However, she was unable to save the mother as she fell and hit the ground. Heinonen suffered minor bruises. She was rushed to a hospital.

The incident was recorded on the store surveillance camera. Heinonen met with the heroic store employee to thank her for saving her daughter.

The mother said that she is epileptic and has had seizures all her life, but this time was different because it was the first time it happened with her daughter in her arms and without warning, Heinonen said.

Although Montanom is being hailed as a hero, she said that she feels guilty for not being able to keep the mother from falling.
Breathalysers Used To Help Safe Nights Out In Wrexham

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 28th, 2016

Licensed premises in Wrexham town centre have teamed up with Council and Police Officers to launch a campaign targeting drunk and disorderly customers.

The operation was part of the towns successful Nightsafe partnership and saw door supervisors and licensees using Alcoblow Breathalysers to make sure that customers entering the premises were not overly drunk.

Drunk and disorderly customers can be a huge burden on the night time economy, often causing nuisances, criminal damage and affecting genuine revelers who want to enjoy a safe night out.

Wrexham Town Support Sergeant Steve Owens, said: This pilot scheme was not about spoiling peoples fun but was actually designed to ensure that those enjoying the night time economy in Wrexham do so safely.

The six venues involved in this scheme were encouraged to use the breathalysers at their discretion. It was not about having a blanket policy or breathalysing every person entering the venue, but it was to be used when there were legitimate concerns that an individual or group were heavily intoxicated and posing a potential risk to themselves and others.

They could have reached this state by either pre-loading by consuming large amounts of cheaper alcohol before coming into the town centre or simply having drunk too much on a night out.

Premises who took part were South, Penny Black, Chequers, Honky Tonks and Rewind.

The Licensing Act 2003 makes it an offence for anyone to sell alcohol to a person that is drunk. The breathalysers are an additional tool to help managers and door staff say enough is enough to customers that are the worse for wear as a result of drinking and gives an undisputable basis for refusing entry to their premises.

Once a customer blows into a device the machines gives a traffic light reading with a green light meaning zero alcohol, amber being a medium reading and red being an alcohol measurement consistent with being twice over the driving limit.

David Thomas, Vice Chairman of the Nightsafe partnership and licensee of Penny Black, said: The campaign was extremely well received, even better than we had imagined. Customers were enthusiastic to try the devices and we got a very encouraging response. there was no negative feedback from anyone that used the device, it was very positive.

Cllr Paul Pemberton, Chairman of Wrexham Councils Licensing Committee said: I welcome this partnership campaign and note that participation was voluntary by the licensees. Its very heartening to know that so many got involved and that the campaign was appreciated by customers. Together with existing measures, this helps makes Wrexham nightlife a safe and welcoming environment.
Froncysyllte Celebrates Wales Air Ambulances 15th Birthday

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 28th, 2016

A village in Wrexham marked 15 years of Wales Air Ambulance flying over the country by hosting a birthday party in honour of the charity.

Residents of Froncysyllte gathered at the villages community centre to celebrate WAAs 15th birthday, enjoying homemade cakes, a tombola and a raffle.

WAA volunteer Janet Norman sold beautiful handcrafted cakes at the event in March, raising funds for the Welsh helicopter charity.

The Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Barbara Roxburgh, came along to the event and cut the WAA birthday cake.

The Big Birthday Bash Weekend raised 562 for Wales Air Ambulance for their birthday.

Alyson Winn, Wales Air Ambulance Community Coordinator, said: Having the support of people across Wales is the best birthday present WAA could ask for.

We have been flying for 15 years, and that has only been possible through kind donations and the support from the people of Wales.

We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who organised and attended the Big Birthday Bash Weekend for their amazing support!
Lives Saved Following Changes to Organ Donation in Wales

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 28th, 2016

Fifteen people have donated their organs in the first two months of a new soft opt-out system for organ donation in Wales, new figures have revealed.

The figures, which have been released by the Welsh Government show that of the 15 people who donated their organs during December 2015 and January 2016, six had their consent deemed because they had not registered a decision to either opt in or opt out of becoming an organ donor.

Health and Social Services Minister Mark Drakeford has urged families in Wales to continue talking about their organ donation decisions.

Professor Drakeford said: In the first two months, 15 people in Wales have donated their organs, six of whom had their consent deemed. The change in the organ donation system has made it easier for people to donate their organs and ended a very anxious wait for many people who are waiting for a transplant.

However, it is important for everyone in Wales to talk to their loved ones about their organ donation decisions and to register it  whether it is to opt in or out  on the organ donation register.

Sharing your decision with your family and loved ones can help in the rare event that your family should ever have a conversation about organ donation with healthcare professionals.

Since 2010, more than 150 people in Wales have died while waiting for an organ transplant. The new system, which came into effect on 1 December 2015, has been designed to make it for people to become an organ donor, and reflects what the majority of people in Wales say they want.

Nine out of 10 people in Wales support organ donation but only three out of 10 people have recorded a decision on the organ donor register. The new system could help increase the number of donors in Wales by 25% and save or transform the lives of around 45 people each year.

The new system  known as soft opt out or deemed consent  allows people who want to be an organ donor to either register a decision to opt in or do nothing. For those who choose to do nothing, if they are 18 or over, have lived in Wales for more than 12 months and also die in Wales, they will be regarded as having consented to organ donation.

People who do not want to be an organ donor can register their decision to opt out at any point during their lifetime.

Healthcare professionals handle discussions with families sensitively. In practice, if relatives are extremely distressed at the prospect of donation  even if the deceased person had consented to organ donation, or had made no decision  then donation would be very unlikely.
University Centre to Help Launch Space Sector Firms After Landing Cash Windfall

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 28th, 2016

A revolutionary North Wales technology centre will help launch businesses from across the UKs 11.8billion space industry after landing a cash windfall.

The team at Wrexham Glyndwr Universitys OpTIC Technology Centre in St Asaph is celebrating a 50,000 grant that will see the Denbighshire facility nurture firms operating in the sector.

Led by OpTIC Centre Director Caroline Gray, a bid was entered following calls from the UK Space Agency and its Innovation and Growth Strategy: Space Growth Action Plan.

The proposal highlighted the need to grow space industries in UK regions by providing a supportive commercial environment to assist entrepreneurs to grow and develop small companies. One method of doing this is through expanding support for business incubation centres across the UK which is why OpTIC was chosen. The centre will also be promoting and hosting a series of industry relevant networking events utilising their extensive business and conference centre facilities.

Caroline said: The vision is to ensure a high-quality, consistent supply chain for the sector. Glyndwr Innovations will maximise and expand current links to form a North Wales base of knowledge transfer, technological expertise and a programme of business and technical support in an environment which allows small companies to concentrate on growth and development without the constant pressure of everyday business concerns.

It will, through its networks such as the North West Innovation Network, collaborate closely with similarly focused incubation units throughout the UK to share best practice and ensure small companies benefit through a national network of relevant events taking place in their sector.

She added: We are thrilled to have received this backing, which comes as we refocus the centre and build on our already strong reputation in the fields of high technology, optics and scientific research.

Among the other incubators to receive funding are Business Durham, Leicester Dock, Sci-Tech Daresbury and Loughborough University.

The investment will support start-up companies across the breadth of the space arena and grow the industry in those regions  an important path in realising the UK sectors ambition to achieve a 10% share of the global space market by 2030.

The announcement was made at a Northern Space Consortium event in Liverpool, where politicians and business leaders were introduced to the opportunities and potential of the highly lucrative UK Space Industry.

Colin Baldwin, UK Space Gateway Programme Manager at the UK Space Agency, said: North Wales, northern England and the Midlands all have the potential to make a significant contribution to our thriving space sector.

There are opportunities for a range of companies developing innovative products that can match the needs of the space industry. The incubators at Glyndwr Innovations, Sci-Tech Daresbury and Business Durham will build upon the growing interests in space and the role it can play to support other sectors within their local areas, both in technology developments and space-derived services.

Were committed to nurturing business and research in these regions, and showing small businesses how they can benefit from our 11.8billion space industry.

Professor Graham Upton, Interim Vice-Chancellor at Wrexham Glyndwr University, says the OpTIC Technology Centre is perfectly placed to capitalise on the grant and support firms in the space sector to develop further.

This is great news, and I would like to congratulate Caroline and her team for all of the hard work that went into this, he said.

The centre has been revitalised in past months; it is perfectly placed to take advantage of this funding and is growing as a hub for innovation and pioneering engineering work. To have been chosen along with these other organisations is very encouraging and shows we are moving in the right direction.

The OpTIC Centre celebrated 10 years in 2015, and in past months scientists at the Glyndwr facility completed a 5M project to produce prototype mirror segments and test facilities for what will be the worlds largest telescope, the 900m E-ELT project (European-Extremely Large Telescope) to be sited in Chile.

For more information on Glyndwr Innovations, visit http://www.glyndwrinnovations.co.uk
This is Part two of a three-part series on the Easter Rising in Ireland. Part one is available here.

Since founding the Irish Socialist Republican Party in 1896, Connolly had, while paying due attention to the appeal of Irish nationalism due to Irelands historic oppression by British imperialism, warned of the fatal character of any illusions in the ability of bourgeois nationalism to end the poverty and exploitation faced by the working class and rural poor.

In Socialism and Nationalism, written in 1897, Connolly outlined the type of republic for which his followers should fight. He warned against any adaptation to the middle class and bourgeoisie in the name of national unity. Arguing that the republic he was striving for was not like the French, where a capitalist monarchy with an elective head parodies the constitutional abortions of England, nor like the United States, where the power of the purse has established a new tyranny under the forms of freedom, Connolly continued, If you remove the English army tomorrow and hoist the green flag over Dublin Castle, unless you set about the organisation of the Socialist Republic your efforts would be in vain. England would still rule you. She would rule you through her capitalists, through her landlords, through her financiers, through the whole array of commercial and individualist institutions she has planted in this country and watered with the tears of our mothers and the blood of our martyrs.

After 1914, in response to the terrible setback suffered by the working class due to the betrayal of the Second International, this stand on Connollys part was to weaken. He focused his work on seeking an alliance with the Irish Volunteers.

There was nothing wrong in principle with seeking to win the support of the best elements of the Irish Volunteers, which drew its recruits from urban workers and poorer rural populations. Many were imbued with a healthy hatred of British imperialism and the social order that it defended. But Connollys orientation involved concessions of a political character, above all a downplaying of his previous critique of the perspective of forming an independent, capitalist Ireland.

In September 1914, the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) faction within the Irish Volunteers, which had led the Fenian rising of 1867, argued in favour of carrying out a military uprising during the war. The IRB contended that the conflict offered an ideal opportunity, with Britain engaged in fighting on the continent, and that the prospect of German victory would redefine the balance of forces in Europe. The Volunteers split into two factions, with the vast majority joining the National Volunteers under the leadership of John Redmond to support the British war effort. The IRB-led faction retained the Irish Volunteers name and about 15,000 fighters.

In May 1915, a number of IRB leaders including Thomas Clark and Patrick Pearse formed a Military Committee to advance the planning of the uprising. Pearse famously declared, We must accustom ourselves to the thought of arms, to the sight of arms, to the use of arms. We may make mistakes in the beginning and shoot the wrong people; but bloodshed is a cleansing and a sanctifying thing and a nation which regards it as the final horror has lost its manhood.

Connolly, like the IRB, believed that an uprising across the country in opposition to British rule would be triggered by launching action in Dublin. He also shared their illusions about the role a victorious Germany would play in securing Irish independence, in part as a substitute for the international revolutionary movement led by the working class that had failed to materialise. Notwithstanding the oft-cited banner which hung outside Connollys Liberty Hall headquarters, We serve neither King nor Kaiser, but Ireland, by December 1915 the Irish Citizen Army (ICA) was marching to a song during its training called The Germans Are Winning the War, Me Boys.

In what amounted to an echo of the propaganda used by Germanys Social Democrats to justify support for their own bourgeoisie on the outbreak of hostilities, Connolly wrote of the conflict between Russia and Germany, If we had to choose between strengthening the German bully or the Russian autocrat the wise choice would be on the side of the German. For the German people are a highly civilised people, responsive to every progressive influence, and rapidly forging weapons for their own emancipation from native tyranny, whereas the Russian Empire stretches away into the depths of Asia, and relies on an army largely recruited from amongst many millions of barbarians who have not yet felt the first softening influence of civilisation. German thought is abreast of the best in the world; German influences have shaped for good the hopes of the world, but the thought and the hopes of the best in Russia was but the other day drowned in blood by Russias worst. (James Connolly, On German militarism, Irish Worker, August 22, 1914)

This misguided analysis clearly reflected the propaganda used to justify support for the war by the SPD in Germany. It also proved to be an utterly false estimation of the course of subsequent events. It was out of backward Russia that the revolutionary struggles of the working class in opposition to war found their highest political expression in the conquest of power by the Bolsheviks in October 1917.

Connolly and the nationalist leaders

Though Ireland remained a country oppressed by British imperialism, the development of capitalism was such that the opposed interests of classes had to find expression in the working class securing its political independence from the Irish bourgeoisie, in the struggle against imperialism and for socialism.

Connollys great strength was his realisation that breaking British colonial dominance over Ireland and carrying out the national democratic tasks had to involve the working class in the forefront. Organised in the ICA, a paramilitary group rather than a political party, his followers were pledged to fight for the achievement of an Irish workers republic by force of arms. But the nature of that republic remained undefined and, without a clearly opposed political perspective and leadership, the working class cadre of the ICA were to be subordinated to the petty-bourgeois and bourgeois forces that dominated the nationalist struggle.

Connolly repeatedly expressed frustration with the vacillation of the nationalists, sections of which were reticent about or even explicitly hostile to the idea of supporting an uprising directed against British rule. On several occasions he vowed to lead the ICA in a revolt alone. But he ultimately joined the nationalist-dominated Military Committee in January 1916 as its sixth member, and would serve as military commander during the rising.

His own critique of his allies became less focussed on their class position and more on the refusal to fight. Previous attempts to challenge English rule, beginning with the United Irishmen revolt of 1798, had failed, he wrote, largely because their leaders had been indecisive. In The days of March, published just weeks before the uprising in his Workers Republic, Connolly wrote, The Fenian Rising in March, 1867, was almost foredoomed to failure because like the United Irishmen in 98, and the Young Irelanders in 1848, the leaders had allowed the golden opportunity to slip away, and their attempt when it came was belated ...

In these days of March let us remember that generations, like individuals, will find their ultimate justification or condemnation not in what they accomplished but rather in what they aspired and dared to attempt to accomplish. The generation or the individual that is stricken down in the attempt to achieve a high and holy thing is itself therefore high and holy. By aspiring to reach a height the generation or the individual places its soul unassailably upon that height, even should its body be trampled in the mud at its base.

Connollys call for a heroic generation, ready to sacrifice their lives in the tradition of previous nationalist movements, did not distinguish between the opposed goals of the working class and the bourgeoisie. As subsequent experience was to tragically demonstrate, his belief that the nationalists in the leadership of the Irish Volunteers could be pressured into becoming reliable allies in the fight against British imperialism and that German imperialism would provide the necessary international support was to prove misplaced. German military aid was limited to a single shipment of arms, which never arrived after the ship carrying it was sunk by the Royal Navy, while deep divisions within the nationalist movement were to cripple the Easter Rising.

The Rising

The Easter Rising was an expression of a more general radicalisation of the working class brought on by the war. It came just over a year and a half after Britain declared war on Germany on August 4, 1914, when the sentiments of significant sections of the Irish population had become increasingly hostile to British rule.

The Irish Parliamentary Party, led by John Redmond, for decades had held up the prospect of achieving an Irish parliament as part of a constitutional process. It saw its support fall drastically, especially after the British governments attempt to tie the granting of home rule to the acceptance of conscription in Ireland. So tense were social relations that when conscription was introduced in Britain in February 1916, Ireland ultimately had to be excluded.

On Easter Monday, April 24, 1916, rebel forces seized prominent buildings in Dublin and set up barricades. In a solemn service at the General Post Office, which became the rebel headquarters, an Irish republic was proclaimed by Patrick Pearse at 12:04 p.m.

Standing on the steps of the General Post Office, Pearse read, We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible. The long usurpation of that right by a foreign people and government has not extinguished the right, nor can it ever be extinguished except by the destruction of the Irish people. In every generation the Irish people have asserted their right to national freedom and sovereignty; six times during the past three hundred years they have asserted it in arms. Standing on that fundamental right and again asserting it in arms in the face of the world, we hereby proclaim the Irish Republic as a Sovereign Independent State. And we pledge our lives and the lives of our comrades-in-arms to the cause of its freedom, of its welfare, and of its exaltation among the nations.

The proclamation was signed by seven members of the provisional government, Pearse, Connolly, Tom Clarke, Thomas MacDonagh, Joseph Plunkett, Sean Mac Diarmada and Eamonn Ceannt. It reflected the continued belief that Germany would come to Irelands aid with its reference to gallant allies in Europe.

The proclamation pledged universal male and female suffrage. It guaranteed religious and civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities of all its citizens, and declares its resolve to pursue the happiness and prosperity of the whole nation and of all its parts, cherishing all the children of the nation equally, and oblivious of the differences carefully fostered by an alien government, which have divided a minority in the past.

The Irish bourgeoisie was to prove organically incapable of implementing such bourgeois-democratic principles. The uprising was weakened considerably by the countermanding of an order to mobilise the Irish Volunteers at the last minute by founder Eoin MacNeil, who insisted that it was better to wait until an act of aggression by London, such as an attempt to impose conscription, created more favourable circumstances for an uprising. Units of the Volunteers, originally due to mobilise in towns and cities across the country on Sunday April 23, either remained at home or broke up amid confusion over what was to be done. The uprising was delayed until the 24th and when it did take place, far fewer fighters participated.

The rebellion lasted six days, and was brutally suppressed by British Army units. Martial law was declared on the second day of the uprising. In all, there were 418 civilian and rebel casualties and 116 British army fatalities in the fighting, which saw the British army rely overwhelmingly on indiscriminate artillery and heavy machine gun fire. Around 2,600 were injured and much of the city centre was left in ruins.

Brigadier General William Lowe, who commanded the British army through most of the week, gave a sense of the ruthless disregard for Dublins population when he issued an order that British troops entering the city should treat anyone as a potential enemy. Columns will in no case advance beyond any house from which fire has been opened, until the inhabitants of such house have been destroyed or captured, he decreed. Every man in any such house, whether bearing arms or not, may be considered as a rebel.

Immediately after the surrender, the leaders of the uprising were detained and sentenced to death in a series of drumhead courts martial. Connolly, seriously injured during the fighting, had to be carried on a stretcher to his execution by firing squad on May 12. Between May 3 and May 12, 90 people were sentenced to be executed. Fifteen of these executions were carried out.

The military, under the leadership of General John Maxwell, who was made governor general of Ireland, launched a widespread crackdown against anyone associated with the movement for Irish independence, even if they had not been engaged in the rising. A total of 3,430 men and 79 women were arrested. Those arrested were overwhelmingly from the working class, with 55 percent of those detained after the rising being labourers, salesmen, shop assistants or clerks. An additional 1,480 were detained across Britain.

To be continued
In the roughly two weeks since President Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the US Supreme Court, a picture has emerged of a former prosecutor who consistently upholds the police powers of the state.

Appointed to the bench by President Bill Clinton in 1995, the 63-year-old Garland has earned a reputation as a judicial centrist, a term that in the contemporary context signifies an accommodation to corporate interests and the curtailment of democratic rights.

Obamas nominee is by most accounts the most conservative of the judges said to have been on his short list of possible nominees. Near-term political considerations in advance of the November elections clearly played a significant role in Obamas pick to succeed the long-time leader of the right-wing bloc on the Supreme Court, Antonin Scalia, who died suddenly last month. With the Republican leadership in Congress vowing to block a vote on Scalias replacement until after the election, Obama chose a federal appeals court judge who had been broadly backed and even praised by prominent Republicans.

Garlands judicial career parallels the rightward trajectory of the American judiciary over the past two decades, and especially since the launch of the so-called war on terror in 2001. He has endorsed the authoritarian theory of deference to the executive, according to which executive agencies are presumed to be acting reasonably and lawfully.

As a judge on the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, Garland joined an antidemocratic decision that deferred to the Bush administration regarding the rights of detainees at the Guantanamo Bay prison camp. The New York Times Adam Liptak admitted, He has been notably deferential to executive agencies and is seen as reluctant to second-guess experts.

Before becoming a judge, Garland worked for the Justice Department as an associate deputy attorney general (a federal prosecutor), a fact touted by Obama in his nomination speech. On that occasion, Obama emphasized Garlands law-and-order background as a prosecutor who would take no chances that someone who murdered innocent Americans might go free on a technicality. Here the term technicality is a code word for violation of constitutional due process.

In 2003, while some of the most egregious forms of torture were being employed at Guantanamo Bay, Garland voted to throw out a lawsuit by prisoners at the camp challenging their detention without trial, effectively making Garland an accomplice in their illegal detention and torture from that point forward. In that case, Al Odah v. United States, Garland sided with the Bush administration and ruled that the judiciary had no jurisdiction over the case and no authority to challenge the executive.

After the Supreme Courts infamous Citizens United decision in 2010 lifting restrictions on corporate donations in elections, Garland joined in a unanimous appeals court decision expanding the doctrines announced in that decision and facilitating the rise of super PACs.

In that case, SpeechNow v. Federal Election Commission (2010), the DC Circuit reasoned that since the Supreme Court decided that corporate political spending in elections could not be corrupt, donations to fund spending by so-called political action committees (PACs) could not be corrupt either. The SpeechNow decision cited the Citizens United decision 26 times.

In Hatim v. Obama (2014), Garland sided with the Obama administration in a case involving allegations that Guantanamo detainees were subjected to humiliating and vindictive genital probing before being allowed to meet with their lawyers, discouraging detainees from getting legal advice. Garland ruled that the genital searches were reasonable security precautions.

In Judicial Watch v. United States Department of Defense (2013), Garland rejected a request for the Obama administration to release images of Osama bin Ladens reported burial at sea. This ruling asserted that the purpose of censoring the images was to prevent the killing of Americans and violence against American interests.

One exception is a 2013 decision authored by Garland rejecting the Central Intelligence Agencys refusal to confirm or deny the existence of records pertaining to its drone assassination program. The CIA had claimed that acknowledging the mere fact of the existence or nonexistence of the records would jeopardize national security.

The CIAs legal position in that case was exceptionally spurious, even by the standards of 21st century American jurisprudence. No reasonable person, Garland wrote, could make the CIAs argument with a straight face.

On the question of the criminal justice system, Washington Post journalist Radley Balko noted, Garland may actually move SCOTUS [Supreme Court of the United States] to the right on criminal justice. In 2010, the New York Times commented that his rulings suggest that he could be more of a center-right justice in matters of criminal law.

In 2008, for example, Garland sided with a cop who had allegedly performed an illegal search by unzipping a persons jacket without permission and without probable cause. In 2007, he justified a police search of a car as a search incident to arrest, when the arrest had actually come after the search. In 1999, he supported a prosecutor who had misrepresented critical evidence in closing arguments in a jury trial.

With respect to the death penalty, Garland has claimed that the constitutionality of capital punishment is settled law. While he worked as a prosecutor, he personally recommended that the government seek the death penalty, according to the Times.

In the upcoming elections, the American people will be told once again that to defend democratic rights it is necessary to vote for Democrats who will appoint supposedly liberal judges. In that regard, it is instructive to consider the Supreme Court decision in Plumhoff v. Rickard (2014). In that ruling, the court overrode the democratic rights of the family of a victim of police brutality and granted immunity to the police. The unanimous decision was authored by Bush appointee Samuel Alito and joined by both of Obamas Supreme Court appointees, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.

The administrations March 16 announcement of the nomination of Garland has touched off back-and-forth posturing by prominent figures in the political establishment and the media. Obama and his fellow Democrats have denounced the Republicans as obstructionists for blocking consideration of Garland, calling it a violation of the Senates constitutional responsibility to confirm or deny executive appointments. Far from claiming that the accession of Garland would end the generally reactionary trend on the high court, they are promoting him as a moderate and consensus pick and seeking to use his conservative credentials to embarrass prominent Republicans who previously backed him.

The Republican position, no less cynical, is that Scalias replacement will so decisively shift the balance on the Supreme Court that the American people should be given the opportunity to weigh in on the choice in the November elections before the Senate takes action.

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[16 February 2016]
On Wednesday, the German cabinet adopted a four year budget plan that would dramatically increase spending on the military, police, and intelligence services.

German finance minister Wolfgang Schauble (Christian Democrats, CDU) did not mince words at a press conference Wednesday, declaring, The central points of this budget and finance plan are of course the internal and external security of our country.

In an overview on the finance ministrys official website, it states on the key point of external security, Given the variety and changing nature of the tasks of the German army, as part of international coalitions as well as alliance and national defence, the defence budget will be in the new finance plan by a total of around 10.2 billion.

Specifically, the defence budget is to rise from 34.3 billion to 39.2 billion in 2020 (an increase of 14.3 percent). The majority of funds will flow into the rearmament of the army, for which fully 9.4 billion is to be set aside. The second-largest category is international deployments with over 1 billion.

Along with the German army, the intelligence agencies and security apparatus are being significantly strengthened. According to the finance ministry, the spending on internal security [will be] increased by around 2.1 billion by 2020, an above average increase. Key points would be the new programme to strengthen the security agencies as well as the federal police.

The interior ministry (BMI), bragged on its official website that its budget would surpass 8 billion for the first time. In its 2016 budget, the government provided an additional 750 employees for the security services and equipment worth 328 million by 2019. In addition, 3,000 new positions with the federal police have been created. The BMI would be continuing along this route with the 2017 budget. Among the items decided were further strengthening of the security agencies with an additional security package of equipment totalling 630 million by 2020.

In reality, spending on internal and external security is even higher. The 10 billion officially made available to overcome the challenge of the refugee influx will be available for, among other things, combatting the causes of flightthe new euphemism for the armys interventions in North Africa and the Middle East. The federal police and ministry for migration and refugees will also receive additional funds from the refugee pot so they can increase personnel.

While the government is spending billions on internal and external security, other areas are being cut. Budget discipline also means critically examining the efficacy and efficiency of measures and programmes, the budget agreement states. Among other things, so-called spending reviews will be conducted in the areas of housing funding and funding programmes in the sphere of energy transition and climate protection.

It is already clear that the increases for the interior and defence ministries are only the beginning of a more comprehensive rearmament programme. In January, defence minister Ursula Von der Leyen held out the prospect of an additional 130 billion for the military by 2030 and presented a paper to the defence committee in the Bundestag calling for the purchase of hundreds of tanks, artillery pieces, naval helicopters and other large items of military equipment.

Defence policy spokespeople from the governing and opposition parties criticised the increased spending as inadequate. Florian Hahn, defence policy spokesman for the CSU, told Die Welt, the scale is nevertheless unsatisfactory. The investment package demanded by the minister was not covered and the insufficient injection of funds was the wrong signal and left doubts among the troops whether we are confronting the shortages with sufficient seriousness.

Rainer Arnold, the defence spokesman for the Social Democrats, went even further and described the benchmark figures as disappointing. The defence budget was increasing, but given the lack of equipment and the requirement for increased personnel in the army it fell far short. The adopted increases were utterly inadequate and particularly given the lack of equipment, a real blow. With an army which in part only functions on paper, Germany would not be equal to the rising security policy demands.

Green parliamentary deputy Tobias Lindner, who is a member of the budgetary and defence committee in parliament, sounded a similar note. He criticised the fact that the defence ministers wish list [is] much larger than the extra means allocated to her by Wolfgang Schauble. In addition, the majority of the spending [is] for the period after the current electoral cycle, and this meant it was completely unclear whether Von der Leyen would be in office and a new government will continue this course.

Interior minister Thomas de Maiziere, who has been pushing for strengthened internal security for years, announced in a statement that by the finalization of a draft budget, he would agree with Schauble on a significant increase of personnel, particularly for the authorities concerned with combatting terrorism. The issue was to make the security agencies as ready to strike as possible. For this, they would need good protective equipment, the newest technology, weapons and vehicles.

While politicians and the media are trying to portray the militarization of German foreign policy and the building up of a police state as a response to the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels, these measures have been long planned and have been the governments goal from the outset.

The coalition deal between the CDU, CSU and SPD titled Framing Germanys future identified these goals in the autumn of 2013. These included strengthening the federal police as a competent and effective criminal police force, modernising the federal polices operational equipment and a better cooperative relationship between the security agencies.

In the section Responsibility in the world, it stated, We support a strong defence force with modern and capable armed forces.  The Bundeswehr is an intervention army. With its new direction it will also be directed at the changed security policy conditions of the 21st century. We will firmly continue this reorientation and lead it to success, which will require a broad spectrum of military capabilities.
Child poverty and officially reported cases of abuse and neglect have risen drastically in recent years in the state of Michigan, according to the 2016 Kids Count report released last week by the Michigan League for Public Policy.

The annual report shows that child poverty has increased in 80 of Michigans 83 counties over the period 2006-2014. Statewide, child poverty increased by 23 percent, and child abuse and neglect by a shocking 29 percent. Nearly one quarter of Michigans children now live in official poverty.

Michigans child poverty rate of 22.6 percent (492,257 children) is slightly worse than national rate of 22 percent. The latter figure represents 16 million children nationwide who live below the official poverty line. The definition of poverty used by the Kids Count report is the US Federal Poverty Level, which is set at $24,250 per year for a family of four, a grossly inadequate amount of money.

The reports authors note that the most startling statewide child well-being figures include the following:

Child poverty is even higher among minority groups: Forty-seven percent of Michigans African-American children and 32 of Hispanic children live in poverty.

Thirty-two percent of children live in households where no one has secure employment.

Sixty-seven percent of children aged 0-5 years have both parents in the workforce.

On average, child care expenses represent 40 percent of minimum wage earnings.

The authors also note that 17 percent of children in Michigan live in high-poverty neighborhoods, including more than half (55 percent) of African-American children, and nearly a third (30 percent) of Hispanic children.

The report ranks Michigans 83 counties by Overall Child Well-Beinga term which includes poverty strictly-defined, but also things like food security, infant/child mortality, child abuse/neglect, and proficiency of school-children in English and math. It finds that the seven lowest-ranking counties are rural counties where the vast majority of residents are white. Eighth-worst is Genesee County, where the city of Flint is located, which has been the focus of national attention for the ongoing lead in water crisis.

The Kids Count data shows how closely child abuse and neglect correlate to child poverty. Over the period 2006-2014, Michigan saw a 52 percent increase in child abuse and neglect investigations, resulting in a confirmed abuse/neglect rate increase of 29 percent. Thirty-three-thousand children were confirmed abused or neglected in 2014 alone.

The report defines neglect as a child not receiving basic needs such as food, clothing or shelter; or not being protected from harm. School teachers are required by law to report signs of child neglect, so a family that is homeless, living out of a vehicle, or unable to afford enough good food and clothing is at risk of being investigated.

The rate of children aged 0-5 years who are eligible for SNAP benefits (food stamps), and the rate of school-children eligible for free or reduced price school lunches, each also increased by 29 percent (to 31.9 percent, and 46.7 percent, respectively) over the same periodthe exact same percentage increase as for child neglect. A separate study by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) published earlier this month shows that nearly one third of US households receiving SNAP benefits still cannot afford enough food and must rely on food pantries.

Parents can also be reported to the authorities if they fail to pay electric, heat or water bills. Michigan has some of the highest water and utility rates in the country. Indeed, another report published in February of this year shows that the city of Flint, Michigan has the absolute highest water rate in the country, even as its water supply continues to be systematically contaminated with lead. The average Flint household pays between $864 and $1680 annually for water. Genessee County, where Flint is located, has a child poverty rate of 33 percent.

The Kids Count data for Detroit, Americas poorest big city for more than a decade, are staggering. In 2014, 57.1 percent of Detroit children officially lived in poverty, an increase of 29 percent over 2006. Eighty-one percent lived in high-poverty neighborhoods. Ninety-four percent were insured by Medicaid, meaning they live in households with annual incomes less than 133 percent of the poverty level ($32,252 for a family of four). Detroits confirmed victims of child neglect and abuse rose 42 percent between 2006 and 2014.

The year 2014 saw the conclusion of the Detroit bankruptcy, the largest municipal bankruptcy in US history, in which the pensions of city workers were looted, and city assets and services were hived off and privatized in order to pay back the banks and wealthy bond holders who control the city. These cuts were rolled out as the Kids Count study concluded and their effects are not yet reflected in the data. Future Kids Count reports for Detroit will no doubt show even more devastating child impoverishment and well-being figures.

The central economic event in the period of 2006-2014 was the financial crash of 2008. In the years since, 95 percent of income gains nationally have gone to the richest one percent of the population, while most of the population has not recovered from the Great Recession, which officially ended in 2009. Late last year the labor-force participation rate fell to a 38-year low of 62.4 percent.

Democratic President Barack Obama, in office for six of the eight years covered by the study, has pursued a program that includes multi-trillion-dollar bail outs for the banks and financial institutions coupled with devastating attacks on the wages, pensions, health care, and billions in cuts to social programs for the working class and poor.

Obama has been aided by the trade unions, which have fought to stifle working class opposition to attacks on their living standards, particularly in Michigan, a historic center of auto manufacturing. In 2009, as a condition of the auto bailout Obama cut the wages of Big Three new-hires in half, and in 2015 the UAW resorted to ballot-stuffing, breaking their own by-laws, and hiring a public relations firm to impose another sellout contract upon autoworkers.
Brooklyn district attorney Ken Thompson has decided to seek no prison time for the police officer convicted of killing 28-year-old Akai Gurley in the stairwell of his Brooklyn housing development in November, 2014.

The case is one of the few instances among thousands of police killings in recent years that has actually gone to jury trial. However, the district attorneys actions demonstrate the lengths to which the state will go, even in the exceedingly rare cases of a conviction, to ensure that there are no serious consequences for police murder.

The district attorney announced his recommendation last week in a letter to Judge Danny Chun, who will sentence ex-New York Police Department officer Peter Liang on April 14.

Thompson, Brooklyns first African American prosecutor, was elected in 2014 pledging to restore fairness to a judicial system widely despised as rigged. In the letter, he argued Liangs felony manslaughter and official misconduct convictions warranted 500 hours of community service, six months of home confinement and a period of probation. The manslaughter charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years.

The recommendation came as an outrage to Gurleys family. This is a slap in the face to Akai Gurley. His life did not mean anything to DA Thompson, Gurleys aunt, Hertencia Petersen, said at a rally last Wednesday outside Thompsons office. How can you tell me its OK to murder, to take an innocent life, and not be held accountable?

Jurors who served on the case also reacted to the news with shock and anger. One 62-year-old juror told the New York Daily News, What was the point of prosecuting him? What did we do this for? [Police officers] deserve to be prosecuted and sentenced just like everyone else who has the same background or committed the same crime. The juror noted that his father had been sentenced to a seven-year prison term for accidentally shooting a friend.

Much of the muted media coverage of the case sought to portray Liang in the most sympathetic terms: a frightened, rookie cop without adequate training, patrolling a dark and dangerous public housing project. Liang claimed he accidentally pulled the trigger of his 9mm Glock as Gurley and his girlfriend entered the doorway of the seventh floor stairwell. New York City police officers and their supporters, along with sections of the Chinese immigrant community who argued Liang was a scapegoat for the crimes of the NYPD, held rallies to defend the cop. Yet the facts of the case testify to the culpability of Liang and the NYPD as a whole.

As Gurley lay dying in the stairwell Liang made no attempt to administer aid. His first action was to search the stairwell for his bullet in order to cover up the crime. When he finally reported the incident, he made no call for an ambulance. Trained in CPR, Liang made no attempt to resuscitate Gurley. Instead, Gurleys panicked girlfriend was left to try to save his life with second-hand instructions from a 9-1-1 operator.

The vertical patrols Liang and his partner were conducting, with guns drawn, inside the Pink Houses in Brooklyn are part of a virtual police occupation of New Yorks working class neighborhoods. Minority youth in particular are targeted, treated as criminals at all times whether inside their homes or on the streets.

Gurleys killing came just four months after the brutal NYPD choking death of Eric Garner in Staten Island and in the midst of a nationwide epidemic of police murders. Beyond the high profile killings, unchecked police brutalization and intimidation are a daily occurrence, as the recent arrest, caught on video, of a mail carrier on the job for complaining about a cops dangerous driving once more demonstrates.

Much of the liberal political establishment in New York rushed to defend and even praise Thompsons handling of the prosecution. The New York Times carried an analysis piece proclaiming the district attorney a shrewd victor in a case with no apparent winners. While Democratic mayor Bill de Blasio refrained from commenting directly on the sentencing, his police chief Bill Bratton hailed the move. [Thompson] is intimate with all the circumstances in this case and I applaud him for making this decision, Bratton said.

Behind this support is a fundamental agreement with open right-wingers, like Patrolmans Benevolent Association spokesman Patrick Lynch, on the necessity of the police state apparatus to operate with impunity, combined with rhetorical concern with democratic rights of the victims of police violence.

Thompson went further than most of his peers in New York City and throughout the country in actually bringing the case to trial, a maneuver that was calculated to mollify anger at the killing of an unarguably innocent man. At the same time, Thompsons call for no jail time ensures not only that there is no significant punishment for the killing of Gurley, but that the NYPDs officers can continue their repressive operations without pause.
New Zealands opposition Labour Party has responded to the deteriorating economic situation by stoking reactionary xenophobia and economic nationalism. On March 15, the Hutt News reported that during a visit to the working class centre of Lower Hutt, Labour leader Andrew Little blamed semi-skilled migrants from China and India for taking jobs from those who are already living here.

Little, a former national secretary of the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union, said immigration was having a downwards impact on the countrys wages. Weve got a reasonably high level of inward migration and its not all at the skilled level. It wasnt the intention of the immigration policy to do that, Little declared.

Little singled out Asian workers, claiming there is an oversupply of Indian and Chinese chefs. A lot of folks come here from overseas to get into the hospitality industry with those particular cooking skills and I think the question is: can we actually source those labour needs internally? he asked. Labour would be justified in examining New Zealands immigration settings, Little asserted, to make sure were getting the right mix and balance and that were not compromising the interests of those who are already living here trying to get decent pay and conditions.

Little is making immigrants the scapegoat for the deepening social crisis for which successive Labour and National governments are responsible. The Labour governments of prime ministers David Lange (1984-1990) and Helen Clark (1999-2008), backed by the trade unions, bear prime responsibility for the extended assault on jobs, pay and living standards. Real hourly wages declined by up to 16 percent over the decade from 1984, and never recovered. Inequality soared. The labour share of income fell from 60 percent of income in the early 1980s to 46 percent in 2002 before recovering slightlya loss in current dollar terms of about $19 billion per year, or $10,000 per wage earner per year.

Littles call for a cap on immigration coincided with a renewed economic downturn. In January, international credit rating agency Fitch downgraded New Zealands outlook, saying it expected slower GDP growth due to falling dairy prices. The deepening slump in the industry is causing alarm in wider banking and financial circles, with one economist describing the situation as the worst in real terms since 1912. Thousands of job cuts are also underway, including the closure of Solid Energy coal mines and electronics retailer Dick Smith, and plans for up to 1,000 redundancies at the Inland Revenue Department.

Winston Peters, leader of the right-wing anti-immigrant NZ First Party, seized on Littles comments to launch his own xenophobic anti-Asian diatribe. Peters told the New Zealand Herald on March 17 that Labour was compromised by its past, having previously supported high levels of immigration and ignored the needs of ordinary New Zealand men and women in the workforce.

Peters accused Aucklands ethnic restaurants of being fronts for immigration fraud, charging phenomenal sums for job offers to bring people in from overseas. People pay serious money to come in, all under the table, all wrong, all a total degradation of this countrys standards when it comes to workers, and all under our nose, Peters fulminated.

Restaurant owners on Aucklands Dominion Road, who Peters singled out, rejected his charges. Gary Holmes, representing the local Business Association, told the New Zealand Herald: We know many of the business owners personally and they are all genuine, hard-working people. Restrictions are already in place. Official immigration figures show visas granted to Chinese chefs are capped at 200 placesunder a free trade agreement signed by Labourand it took three years to fill these spots.

Responding to media criticism, Little told journalists that reporting of his statements was baffling. I was asked about Labours policy on immigration generally. I said our approach was that as the economy slows there is a case to turn the [immigration] tap down, he said. At the same time, he repeated his false claims that large inflows of semi-skilled migrants were putting pressure on jobs, especially in Auckland.

Various pro-Labour commentators defended Little. The trade union funded Daily Blog railed against the Herald for bashing Little over the issue in its March 19 editorial. Unite union leader Mike Treen declared that Labour had been trapped into appearing as being opposed to migrant workers. Chris Trotter told TV 3 that Littles comments were a simple miscalculation. Labour is increasingly desperate to be seen in a positive light, Trotter said, and if you push that immigration button, as we have seen in the United States with Donald Trump, you can get a reaction.

Despite their posturing as anti-racist, none of the pseudo-left groupsthe International Socialist Organisation (ISO), Fightback, and Socialist Aotearoacondemned Littles comments. In 2011 they all affiliated with the Maori nationalist Mana Party, which represents indigenous capitalists and is particularly hostile to foreigners, and falsely promoted its race-based identity politics as progressive. Claiming Labour can be pressured to the left, the pseudo-lefts advocate the return of a Labour-led government, with Mana as a partner.

Littles positioning on immigration was no isolated incident or case of misguided populism. Since 2012, Labour has joined NZ First, the Greens and Mana in jingoistic campaigns against Chinese investment, including in the dairy industry and has blamed Chinese buyers for the expanding housing crisis.

The opposition of Labour and its allies to the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership has also been based on anti-foreigner sentiment and designed to bolster the position of New Zealand employers against overseas competitors. These campaigns, supported by Labours apologists including the unions and pseudo-lefts, dovetail with their support for New Zealands alliance with US imperialism and its military build-up against China.

The Labour Party was steeped in nationalism and xenophobia from its foundation. After World War I, Labour, like its counterpart in Australia, campaigned for severe restrictions on Asian immigration. It supported legislation in 1920 designed to exclude Chinese immigrants, known unofficially as a White New Zealand policy, which remained in place under successive Labour and conservative governments for more than 50 years. Under conditions of rising economic crisis, social distress and impending imperialist wars, the Labour Party is reviving these foul traditions.
A bomb blast in Pakistan at a crowded childrens park in a residential area of Lahore on Sunday evening has killed at least 69 people and injured 300 others. The atrocity, which was clearly designed to cause a maximum loss of life, is suspected to have been carried out by a suicide bomber who set off the explosion in a parking lot, just metres from childrens swings.

When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air, a witness told Reuters. The number of dead and injured is still rising with the majority women and children. The blast also caused a stampede leading to more casualties as panicked and stunned survivors tried to escape the crowded park and surrounding neighbourhood.

According to the Washington Post, Jamaat ul-Ahrar, a splinter group of Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP), claimed responsibility for the attack. A spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan declared that the Christians in Lahore, celebrating Easter were the target. The blast, he said, was to send a message to the government that more attacks would come until Sharia or Islamic law is imposed in Pakistan.

While terrorist attacks are less frequent in Punjab province, of which Lahore is the capital, Christians and other religious minorities are often targeted elsewhere in Pakistan by Sunni Islamic fundamentalists. According to a tally by the Pakistan-based Nation, 1,700 people have died in 117 attacks over the last four years.

Regardless of who carried out the heinous crime on Sunday, it serves reactionary ends. The attack will be used to justify the further militarisation of the country, increase Pakistans support for the US neo-colonial occupation of neighbouring Afghanistan and expand the powers of the Pakistani military. The countrys armed forces wield enormous economic and political power and have ruled the country with Washingtons support for decades, most recently under General Pervez Musharraf between 1999 and 2008.

The TTPs attack in December 2014 on a military-supported school in Peshawar that killed 133 children was immediately exploited by the current Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) government with the backing of the political establishment. The PML-N government gave extraordinary powers to the military under expanded anti-terrorism laws, including the re-establishment of a military court system that can try civilians in secret session. The army immediately escalated its occupation of Karachi under the guise of cracking down on crime and terrorism.

Following the 2014 attack, the government also lifted a moratorium on executions imposed in 2008, leading to a spate of hangings. According to a Reuters report, only 39 of the 351 executed involved people linked to a known militant group or guilty of crimes linked to militancy. In 2015, Pakistan carried out the third highest number of executions in the world.

The Pakistani government strongly condemned Sundays terror bombing, as did the US. Attacks like these only deepen our shared resolve to defeat terrorism around the world, State Department spokesman John Kirby said. White House National Security Council spokesman Ned Price declared that the US would work with Pakistan to root out the scourge of terrorism.

Such language only means that US imperialism will intensify its intervention in the region which has already been deeply destabilised by its efforts to bully Pakistan to do more to support American geo-strategic objectives.

Despite these official denunciations, the ultimate responsibility for the latest atrocity lies with Washington and Islamabad that have both promoted reactionary Islamism and used it to justify their wars.

During the 1980s, as it sought to create a Vietnam for the Soviet Union, the US financed, organised, and armed the Mujahedeen militias to topple the Soviet-backed regime in Afghanistan. It also propped up General Zia ul-Haqs military dictatorship in Islamabad which turned Pakistan into a conduit for Islamists. At the same time, General Zia carried out a brutal Islamising campaign of the country directed at suppressing the working class in Pakistan.

Al Qaeda and the Taliban regime in Kabul were the consequences of this massive CIA-led operation. Following the September 11 attacks, the US invaded Afghanistan in 2001 to overthrow the Taliban and force Pakistan to break its ties to the Taliban regime. Washington also demanded that Islamabad prop up the US occupation of Afghanistan by suppressing anti-occupation militias based along the border in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan.

The Pakistani military has carried out a series of devastating military expeditions to occupy the historically-autonomous FATA regions, provoking bitter opposition. The US invasion of Afghanistan and the Pakistani military operations have led to the rise of what became known as the TTP. Also known as the Pakistan Taliban, it is an umbrella group which is ideologically affiliated to, but distinct from, the Taliban in Afghanistan.

The sheer brutality of the Pakistani military offensives and the CIA-run drone war in the FATA which terrorised the entire population, killing and maiming thousands of civilians, including women and children, has resulted in an increasing number of terrorist attacks in other parts of Pakistan. The worst hit have been religious minorities who are increasingly the victims of sectarian violence.

Following the December 2014 Peshawar terror attacks, the Pakistani military, in close collaboration with Washington, intensified its military offensive in North Waziristan, which had already displaced a million people, and other areas of FATA.

After Sundays blast, Pakistans military top-brass, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and other intelligence agencies, was hurriedly convened in parallel with a meeting by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and senior government figures. As in the wake of the Peshawar school attack what is now under consideration is a new wave of military attacks in the FATA regions, accompanied by further anti-democratic measures, which further expand Pakistans devastating civil war.
Bernie Sanders scored landslide victories over Hillary Clinton in Democratic Party caucuses held Saturday in Washington state, Hawaii and Alaska.

The scale of the defeats for Clinton, the presumptive front-runner in the contest for the presidential nomination, was overwhelming in all three states. In Washingtons caucuses, Sanders beat Clinton by 73 percent to 27 percent. In Alaska, the margin was 82 percent to 18 percent. Sanders won the Hawaii caucuses by 70 percent to 30 percent.

The Vermont senator has won six of the last seven Democratic Party contests, including last Tuesdays victories in Utah and Idaho. Clinton won in Arizona the same day.

Turnout for the weekend caucuses, which generally involve far fewer participants than elections, approached or exceeded records set in 2008, including at least 225,000 in Washington. A report in the Atlantic noted that Sanders won from wall to wall, adding, He took every county in Washington, and in Alaska, he posted double-digit margins in all 40 districts.

These votes have deepened the political crisis in the Democratic Party. Even a Clinton victory over a candidate who describes himself as socialist, if the margin of victory were small, would be of great significance. During the 1968 Democratic Party primary campaign, which unfolded amidst growing opposition to the Vietnam War, Senator Eugene McCarthys performance in the New Hampshire primary, in which he won 42 percent to Lyndon B. Johnsons 49 percent, was considered a near-fatal blow to the sitting president. It helped precipitate Johnsons decision to withdraw from the presidential race three weeks later.

It is extraordinary that Clinton, who has emerged as the political personification of the status quo, is not only losing, but being trounced in so many states. She is being routed in many contests under conditions where she is presented as the all-but-inevitable winner of the nomination process. Her defeats are a repudiation of calls from leading Democratic Party officials, including President Obama, for Sanders to end his campaign. In a political system that was in any way responsive to popular discontent, Clintons candidacy would be considered doomed.

The general media line notwithstanding, the issue is not so much who has the most delegates, but the political dynamic at work. Even if Sanders is not able to surpass Clintons still sizable lead, due to a significant degree to the pledges of so-called super delegatesparty operatives, officeholders and politicians who are not elected in primaries and caucusesit will be impossible to conceal the fact that the Democratic Partys standard-bearer is deeply unpopular.

The eventual outcome of the nomination processfor both the Democrats and Republicansremains highly volatile and unpredictable. What is clear, however, is that the two-party system, through which the American capitalist class has exercised its rule nearly 150 years, is breaking apart.

The social anger that has built up over decades, vastly intensified since the crash of 2008, is beginning to find political expression. The United States is riven by extreme levels of social inequality, with a handful of billionaires controlling more wealth than the bottom half of the population. To this must be added the destabilizing consequences of a quarter-century of unending war, particularly in the decade-and-a-half of the war on terror.

More and more, this underlying reality is breaking through the ossified structure of American politics. Expressing the shock this has produced within the political establishment, the New York Times Nicholas Kristof recently made the remarkable admission that healong with the rest of the mediawere largely oblivious to the pain among working class Americans.

While Kristof was referring to the support for Trump among sections of workers, the basic trajectory of the American working class is not to the right, but to the left.

Support for Sanders is the initial expression of a broadly felt anticapitalist sentiment among workers, and particularly among younger voters who have seen nothing but economic crisis and war for their entire politically conscious lives. Sanders, who has had far less media coverage than the other major candidates, has received 1.5 million votes from those under 30 in the primary process prior to Saturday, 300,000 more than Clinton and Trump combined.

These numbers express deeper social trends and corresponding changes in political consciousness. A survey by YouGov released earlier this year found that Americans under the age of 30 rated socialism as better than capitalism (43 percent had a favorable opinion of socialism versus 32 percent who had a favorable opinion of capitalism). Sixteen percent of those under the age of 30 described themselves as socialist, while only 11 percent said they were capitalist.

Another recent poll found that among those age 18 to 35, 56.5 percent described themselves as working classa term that is virtually proscribed in American politics and banned from the media. The percentage of those describing themselves as middle class has fallen steadily, from 45.6 percent in 2002 to a record low 34.8 percent in 2014.

While the evident willingness of millions of American workers and young people to consider socialism as an alternative to the existing capitalist system has come as a shock to the political establishment, this development is a striking confirmation of the political program and perspective published by the Socialist Equality Party in 2010. The SEP anticipated a profound shift in the political consciousness of the working class:

In the final analysis, the vast wealth and power of American capitalism was the most significant objective cause of the subordination of the working class to the corporate-controlled two-party system. As long as the United States was an ascending economic power, perceived by its citizens as the land of unlimited opportunity, in which a sufficient share of the national wealth was available to finance rising living standards, American workers were not convinced of the necessity of socialist revolution. The change in the objective conditions, however, will lead American workers to change their minds. The reality of capitalism will provide workers with many reasons to fight for a fundamental and revolutionary change in the economic organization of society. The younger generation of working people  those born in the 1980s, 1990s, and the first decade of the twenty-first century  do not know, and will never know, capitalist prosperity. They are the first generation of Americans in modern times who cannot reasonably expect to achieve a living standard equal to, let alone better than, their parents generation. [The Breakdown of Capitalism and the Fight for Socialism in the United States]

The scale of his support has taken the Sanders campaign itself by surprise. It reflects an emerging revolutionary potential that is entirely unacceptable to the candidate and the mildly reformist sections of the Democratic Party establishment for which he speaks. It has never been Sanders intention or desire to lead a popular movement against capitalism. From the beginning, his campaign was intended to serve as a safety valve for the political establishment.

As the campaign progresses, the contradiction between Sanders own objectives and the aims of those who have supported him will inevitably emerge. Aware of the dangers involved, Sanders spoke out of both sides of his mouth in interviews over the weekend. Asked whether he had any conditions for endorsing Clinton if she won the nominationincluding that she support his campaign planks of Medicare for all, a $15 minimum wage and free tuition at public collegesSanders evaded the question. He said it was a misinterpretation of what I said to suggest that there were any conditions, while refraining from saying directly that he would back Clinton.

But when he announced his bid for the Democratic nomination last year, Sanders pledged to support the eventual nominee, whoever he or she was. And in the course of the primary contests, he repeatedly promoted his campaign as the most effective means of increasing the turnout for the Democratic Party in the November general election.

Sanders campaign slogansdenouncing the billionaire class and a political system dominated by corporate moneyaddress only certain surface aspects of American society, but by no means go to the source of mass discontentthe capitalist system itself.

The issues that are driving the working class into political strugglethe fight against war, inequality and the destruction of democratic rightscannot be resolved without a decisive break with the Democratic Party and the building of an independent political movement of the working class on the basis of a genuinely socialist program. This means a fight to unite workers throughout the world in a common struggle to overturn the capitalist system, replacing it with a rationally planned and democratically controlled economy based on social need, not private profit.

The crisis of the two-party system revealed in the elections underscores the urgency of the building of the Socialist Equality Party to intervene in the struggles of the working class and provide the necessary revolutionary leadership.
Syrian government forces retook the city of Palmyra from mercenaries affiliated with the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) Sunday, advancing on the city and retaking its historic ancient ruins under air cover from Russian war planes.

The Syrian military is preparing expanded military operations in the countrys eastern desert region, including assaults against ISIS-held Raqqa and Deir al-Zor. The planned offensives will use Palmyra as a launchpad, a Syrian general said Sunday.

These operations will inevitably raise the possibility of more direct clashes between US and Russian-backed proxies. The US military continues to pound both northern Syria and Iraq with air strikes, in support of large-scale ground offensives by US commandos and proxy militias.

The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by US air and ground units, are already engaged in fighting near Raqqa. On Sunday, US air forces conducted strikes against Manbij and Mara in Syria, and against al-Baghdadi, Kisik, Hit, Mosul, Qayyarah, Sinjar and Sultan Abdullah in Iraq.

The US political establishment is meanwhile torn by increasingly bitter divisions over a possible negotiated settlement with Russia. US Secretary of State John Kerry announced last week that US and Russian negotiators meeting in Moscow have agreed to initial terms for a deal to end the war. The transition to a postwar government could begin as early as August, Kerry claimed on Friday.

Appearing on CBS Face the Nation Sunday, Kerry reiterated his readiness to accept terms that would maintain some degree of Russian influence over the Syrian state. Russia can help the US stabilize the political and military situation in Syria, Kerry said.

We have base access in Incirlik in Turkey. We have bases all through the Middle East and Bahrain and in Qatar. I see no threat whatsoever to the fact that Russia has some additional foundation into Syria, Kerry said Sunday.

If Russia can help stabilize and provide for a peace process that actually ends this war, Kerry said, at which point he was interrupted by Face the Nation host John Dickerson.

Theyre an ally in Syria? Dickerson asked.

No, Kerry replied, underscoring the fact that even the peace faction within the White House ultimately views the Russian government as its enemy.

The Syrian war is threatening to destabilize governments across Europe and the Middle East, Kerry said. The war is putting existential pressure on Europe, as well as existential pressure on Jordan, on Lebanon and creating an environment that threatens Israel, he said, implying that these conditions justified a tactical compromise with Moscow.

Any US-Russian deal would be reached only because it serves the strategic interest of American imperialism, Kerry made clear. If Russia can help us to actually effect this political transition, that is all to the strategic interest of the United States of America, he said.

Whatever its form, a diplomatic settlement stands little chance of containing the escalating chaos that has ravaged Syrias social infrastructure and killed as many as 470,000 civilians since the start of the US-fomented civil war in 2011. Five years of US destabilization operations have transformed Syria into a hotbed for Islamist extremists, with most of the country overrun by mercenary fighting groups that are armed and financed by the US and its regional allies.

Though theoretically controlled from Washington and Langley, these forces operate largely beyond the control of their American handlers and engage in fighting against one another.

Syrian militias armed by different parts of the US war machine have begun to fight each other on the plains between the besieged city of Aleppo and the Turkish border, the Los Angeles Times wrote on Sunday, in an unusually frank characterization of the contradictions unleashed by the Obama administrations Syria policy.

Clashes between CIA-armed units and Pentagon-armed ones in Syria have intensified to the level of full-on struggles over key territory. Pentagon-backed Syrian Democratic Forces seized the town of Marea from the CIA-backed Knights of Righteousness faction in February.

The clashes highlight how little control US intelligence officers and military planners have over the groups they have financed and trained in the bitter five-year-old civil war, the Times noted.

In addition to showing the contradictions of the US intervention in Syria, the infighting among US-backed forces also expresses the deepening conflict within the US ruling elite and its European allies. Amid the media hyping of a possible peace deal and proclamations of major victories over ISIS in Mosul and Palmyra, military and political tensions are reaching new heights throughout the Middle East and within the imperialist governments themselves.
6 years, 6 months ago QPD

Dameian J. Powell, 24, Quincy for City of Quincy FTA - Vandalism -

George E. Scott (35), 1212 So. 22nd on warrant for FTA - Trespassing/Trespassing & Cheating. Lodged

Allen Smith, 1507 No. 17th reports his 2014 Mustang was hit and run while parked at either Barney's or The River House between 3-18 and 3-20.

Dawanna L. Tate, 24, for possession of cannabis at 3/Spring on 3-26-16. Cash bond

Anthony E. Williams, 23, for no valid DL at 3/Chestnut on 3-26-16. PTC

April M. Maggart, 35, for speeding at 4/Elm on 3-26-16. PTC

Kenneth J. Doellman, 57, for speeding in the 200 block of S. 36th on 3-25-16. PTC

Anthony E. Williams, 23, for FTA-Unlicensed driver, FTA-Transportation of alcohol by driver. Arrested at 3/Spring on 3-26-16. Lodged.

Deonte L. Jones, 22, for FTA-possession of cannabis at 5/College on 3-26-16. Initially lodged, then posted cash bond
6 years, 6 months ago by Scott Hardy

Two from Quincy, one from Liberty

Lewis County authorities say three Adams County residents each face a meth charge after a traffic stop.

The Lewis County Sheriff's Office says the stop happened last Monday, and that 34 year old Tony Taylor of Quincy, 31 year old Joanna Burton of Quincy and 35 year old Roxann Hasting of Liberty are all charged with one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance. Deputies gave no details as to where the stop took place, but say the arrests were part of an investigation by their department, as well as La Grange Police and the NEMO Drug Task Force.

Taylor is in the Lewis County Jail on $10,000 bond, while both Burton and Hasting were released Monday. All three have a hearing next Monday in Lewis County Court.
SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) - Prosecutors in Polk County have dropped charges against a man who shot his neighbor during a confrontation.

The Herald-Tribune reports Chris Brooks is relieved after wondering whether he would spend the rest of his life in prison.

Arrested Oct. 25, 2014 at his home in Polk County, he was charged with second-degree attempted murder for shooting his neighbor Curtis Hamrick during a confrontation.

Hamrick's son had molested Brooks' daughter several years before the shooting. Brooks maintained he shot his neighbor, who survived the wound, in self-defense.

Florida's Stand Your Ground law has been controversial since it passed in 2005. This year, state lawmakers considered a bill that would have shifted the burden of proof to prosecutors from defendants in such cases, but it didn't pass.
PANAMA CITY, Fla. (AP)  Panama City Beach officials say the city should be able to weather the expected plunge in March sales tax revenues resulting from a reduction in Spring Break business.

The News-Herald reports (http://bit.ly/1TcK4Y5) even with an anticipated slow Spring Break this year, the city's annual tax revenues still could exceed last year's.

Hotel reservations are down more than 50 percent this Spring Break and businesses reporting sales down anywhere from 50 to 85 percent.

Businesses say the reduction is due to new laws passed to tone down the celebration, particularly the law banning drinking on the beach in March. But Bay County Commissioner Mike Thomas said the primary reason for the decrease in visitors is the bad publicity about crime from last year's Spring Break.
The climax of the AIPAC conference this week was undoubtedly when the audience rose and applauded Donald Trump's harsh belittling of President Barack Obama: "the worst thing to happen to Israel  and you know it."

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Everyone understood that something had happened in the Jewish community: Trump had transformed from the politically maligned and morally offensive candidate to the desirable one in the eyes of many of the conference attendees. Amongst those who cheered were those who felt embarrassment, but others felt a sense of releaseas if they were saying, "Enough hiding behind political correctness already."

The largest moment of embarrassment was reserved for the AIPAC leadership. At the unpleasant final note of the conference, the organization's leadership, headed by its president, Lillian Pinkus, came out and apologized for insulting the president. Pinkus expressed her disappointment with the cheers which Trump had received.





Trump at AIPAC (Photo: AFP)



The liberal Jewish magazine Tablet criticized Trump's invitation to the conference and wrote in an editorial that AIPAC's conduct exposes Jews to anti-Semitism, divides Jews and damages their moral image.

The AIPAC conference events are a symptom of the deep process that is taking place in American Judaism. AIPAC always prided itself on being bipartisan. For them, support of Israel was an issue that didn't depend on political leanings. It has not been thus in recent years.

AIPAC's support of Israel is perceived by many in the American capital and media as support of fundamentalist, right-wing Israel. Many liberals claim that the Israeli right and the Republicans have taken over AIPAC, which has become the " Netanyahu lobby."

That's how it was in the debate over the Iranian nuclear program, in which the organization sided with Netanyahu against the government. "The Iranian nuclear issue was a watershed moment in AIPAC's transformation to a right-wing organization," a senior official in Washington told me.

Clinton at AIPAC (Photo: AFP)

Trump's performance at AIPAC was perhaps a new peak for the gaping distance between Jewish liberals and the hard pro-Israel lobby. While Hillary Clinton and Vice President Joe Biden 's speeches at the conference were received with cheers, especially when they talked about close security ties between the US and Israel, both of them emphasized, directly and indirectly, that they preferred the universal Israel to the religious, tribal Israel.

Important Jewish liberals have become aggressive critics of AIPAC in recent years. Some do so with unbridled rhetoric. The fundamentalists amongst them go through a process of disengagement from Israel as defining their Judaism, and condemning AIPAC becomes a litmus test of progressive Americanism for them.

Biden at AIPAC (Photo: AFP)

It wasn't for nothing that Bernie Sanders declined to appear before AIPAC, which is considered by many of his supporters to be a fundamentalist right-wing body. The AIPAC leadership's embarrassment and their condemnation of Trump's pronouncements are further evidence of the Jewish American establishment's divided mind.

Amongst AIPAC's Republican supporters are those who hope that Trump will be elected president and that support of Israel will be clear and "without reservations." Yet there are also many Democrats in AIPAC who are hoping that Clinton will be elected and return Jews and the Israeli question to the center of the political map.
BAMAKO- Authorities in Mali have arrested two men believed to be linked to an al Qaeda attack on a beach resort town in neighbouring Ivory Coast that killed 19 people earlier this month, military officials said on Sunday.

Gunmen shot swimmers and sunbathers before storming into several hotels in the town of Grand Bassam, 40 km (25 miles) from the commercial capital, Abidjan, on March 13.

"The information concerning the arrests of two suspects in the north of Mali is true," said Lieutenant-Colonel Modibo Nama Traore, a military intelligence officer who said they had been picked up by gendarmes and the intelligence service..
LAHORE- Pakistani authorities launched a hunt on Monday for militants behind a suicide bomb that killed at least 65 people in an attack that targeted Christians and was claimed by a Taliban faction that once declared ties with Islamic State.

Most of the victims of the bomb attack at a park in the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday evening were women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing.

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

Officials said at least 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. The death toll was expected to rise.
The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement (BDS) is based on the rejection of the existence of the State of Israel, President Reuven Rivlin said Monday morning at Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference in Jerusalem.

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"We must differentiate between criticism and de-legitimization," the president argued, adding that "Criticism is completely legitimate, and we are all focused on one goal; the wellbeing of our country despite the difference of opinion."

World Jewish Congress President Ron Lauder, Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan and President Reuven Rivlin at the anti-BDS conference (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"The BDS movement is a movement founded on the non-acceptance of Israel's existence. We must differentiate between criticism and de-legitimization. We must show the world the claims of the BDS movement are based on hatred and enmity of the State of Israel," the president stressed.

The president further stated that "in terms of the ability for a nation to return to its homeland after 2000 years, most of the world sees Israel as a friend who is requesting the creation of a different civil agenda today, meaning a Jewish and Democratic country where there is no contradiction between Judaism and Democracy."

President Rivlin talking to Dr. Yoaz Hendel at the Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth anti-BDS conference.

Public Security Minister Gilad Erdan, whose office is in charge of fighting the boycott on behalf of the government, said in his address to the conference that despite the vast data he received about the hundreds of companies that are being targeted by the boycott movement, he learned that the situation wasn't as dire.

"Out of all the initiatives on campuses, only nine BDS decisions were passed," he said. "Despite the fact some 500 companies have been targeted, only few stopped their activity. As for direct investments in Israel, they increased in over 70 percent."

Erdan argued Israel should recognize the problem, but not exaggerate on the severity of the situation or panic. "We need to start managing this fight in a coordinated, professional and precise manner," he said.

"This fight is wide ranging  it is a fight for Israel's security against those who want to stop military aid to us, and is an economic battle with those that want to hurt Israeli companies," Erdan continued.

"Supporters of BDS justify their actions because of the 'occupation,' but if we really look at them, they also wave Hamas flags and call for the destruction of the State of Israel. This fight is not over any particular thing in our lives  but over our right to live here. We will do everything in order to expose the true objectives of the BDS movement, in order to expose who is behind them and who helps them," the minister added.

He was confident Israel will prevail. "Every time the issue of our existence is tested, we have known how to overcome it and succeed. Every time this happened, we have united and with joint forces found the answer, making us stronger than before... There is no doubt that we have to make sure that even at the individual level, those involved in BDS will not be able to rest. "

'We're winning on legal front'

In his address, World Jewish Congress President Ron Lauder said he wished the conference wasn't necessary. "I wish there wasn't a worldwide effort to isolate Israel, to undermine Israel, to destroy Israel, he added.

"Our enemies have failed to destroy Israel militarily and economically," Lauder said. "Having failed, they are trying to destroy Israel politically."

BDS, he said, "tries to present itself as some sort of a democratic movement concerned with human rights - that's a lie. It's an international campaign to incite hostility against Israel and the Jewish people."

The movement has no interest in peace or in improving the daily lives of the Palestinians, Lauder noted. "The world needs to see through these lies."

World Jewish Congress President Ron Lauder at the anti-BDS conference (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

The BDS movement is mounting a two-pronged effort against the State of Israel - an economic boycott and an academic one, Lauder said.

"The World Jewish Congress is advancing legislation to make economic boycotts illegal. Many countries have already made boycotts illegal, and there's legislation in the US Congress as well. So on the legal front we are winning," the WJC president declared.

He expressed concerned with the BDS movement's presence on college campuses worldwide, targeting the young and impressionable minds of youths.

"From the moment they arrive at schools, colleges, and universities, our children face a barrage of anti-Semitic lies," he lamented. "College is their first exposure to the history and politics of the Middle East. They're especially vulnerable to BDS's harsh propaganda."

Ron Lauder addresses Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference (: RR )

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He also bemoaned the fact that it is difficult for pro-Israel groups on campuses to compete with the well-financed anti-Israel groups. "Most Jewish students are ill-equipped to defend themselves," he said.

To that end, the World Jewish Congress is in the process of establishing a network of organizations at key colleges and universities around the world "to help Jewish students stand up to anti-Israel groups and their lies. Skilled young professionals will train Jewish students to be proud of their heritage and of Israel."

He also called on alumni and donors who care about Israel need to make their voices heard.

Additionally, Lauder argued that in order counter the calls for boycott, a coordinated campaign was needed to encourage people to buy Israeli goods. This can be done, among other things, by using the hashtag #buyIsraeli on social media.

World Jewish Congress President Ron Lauder at the anti-BDS conference (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"We'll let the world know we're proud to support the Israeli economy," he said.

BDS, he said, is "a dangerous new strain of an age-old disease - anti-Semitism," vowing Jews will never be silent again in the face of anti-Semitism and "stand up for for what is right and expose BDS for the fraud that it is."

With that in mind, Lauder also stressed that "in this fight, we must never forget that the ultimate goal is peace."

Lauder's address was followed by a speech from Ben-Dror Yemini, a Yedioth Ahronoth editorialist and one of the most prominent voices in Israel and in the Jewish world in the struggle against the boycott.
A decision on former president Moshe Katsav's request for an early release on good behavior has been postponed until next week after a lengthy hearing in front of the Parole Board on Sunday.

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Katsav is serving a term of seven years in prison for two counts of rape, indecent assault and sexual harassment. Representatives of the prosecutor's office expressed opposition to Katsav's release, arguing he has never admitted to the crimes he was convicted of, never expressed remorse, and hasn't undergone rehabilitation treatment for sex offenders.

The hearing lasted for twelve hours, during which the former president broke down and started crying. Katsav's lawyers, however, were optimistic about his chances.

Moshe Katsav, the prosecution was against his release (Photo: Gadi Kabalo)

"I do not want to get into speculations and conjectures, I can only say that I've never argued a more just claim than this - Moshe Katsav needs to be released," said his attorney, Zion Amir, who presented his arguement for four hours. "Katsav spoke before the parole board and recounted his story of the last ten years, and especially the last four years spent in prison."

"It might not be pleasant to for you to hear, but I was taught that the law requires meeting certain criteria in order to be eligible for sentence reduction, and we should follow the law. Moshe Katsav meets the criteria and everyone should respect that, including MK Zehava Gal-On who sent a letter to the board."

Attorney Yehoshua Resnick said that the fact that Katsav did not go through rehabilitation for sex offenders "came up here and there. The board heard detailed arguments on this issue and it will make its decision. The State Attorney's representatives were looking for cracks to try and get a decision against Katsav's early release, while the law is clear, permitting Katsav to be released and have his punishment reduced."

Katsav's lawyers, on the way to the early release hearing (Photo: Raanan Ben Tzur)

Katsav was charged with rape, molestation and sexual harassment in March 2009. In December 2010, the District Court convicted him of two counts of rape, indecent assault, sexual harassment, and obstruction of justice. In the verdict, the court held that "the defendant's testimony was strewn with lies, small as well as big ones, and was plagued throughout with manipulations and concealment of information."

In March 2011, Katsav was sentenced to seven years in prison. In addition, the eighth president of Israel was sentenced to an additional two years suspended sentence and was required to pay compensation amounting to NIS 125,000 to two complainants. In November of that year, the court unanimously rejected his appeal, and a month later he began serving his sentence in the religious wing of Maasiyahu prison.
Opposition leader Isaac Herzog (Zionist Union) argued on Monday that "brave diplomatic moves," an independent Supreme Court and a moral IDF are the more effective tools in the fight against the BDS movement.

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Speaking at Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference in Jerusalem, Herzog leveled harsh criticism against the coalition in light of recent attacks against both the IDF and the High Court of Justice.

"An independent court that is not afraid of the government or of public opinion and defends human rights is a very fundamental tool in public discussion and in the decision-making process regarding the BDS movement," he said.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and many of his ministers slammed the High Court on Sunday after it rejected a proposed natural gas deal approved by the government over its "stability clause," which would prevent Israel's leadership of making any changes to the deal over the next 10 years.

"The attacks on the High Court yesterday by the prime minister and the ranks below him only serve to weaken one of the main institutions defending Israel's good name," Herzog told Yedioth Ahronoth's Yuval Karni at the conference.

Opposition leader Isaac Herzog (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"Not all of those who attack us are Israeli haters. There's a massive silent majority influenced by the winds that come from here and there. And when that silent majority hears that we have a Supreme Court, a vibrant democracy, freedom of expression and freedom to protest, and it sees the true story of our amazing country - that majority understands that the BDS movement is all nonsense. But in order to have that we must show that our democracy is strong, and has a strong and independent Supreme Court," he said.

Another fundamental tool in the fight against BDS is the IDF, the chief of staff, and the military's commanders, the Zionist Union leader asserted. "They are one of our greatest defenders, because when the IDF acts according to norms of the purity of arms and moralirty, and has a mechanism to investigate and examine what's happening inside it and is not afraid to investigate - it's one of the most important tools. I strongly condemn the attacks against the IDF chief and the military's commanders."

Those attacks came on the heels of an incident in Hebron last week in which an IDF soldier shot dead a terrorist that had already been neutralized and was lying on the ground. The incident, filmed by a B'Tselem volunteer, caused an outrage in Israel. Many politicians, including Netanyahu at first, condemned the attack and said it was not in line with the IDF's values, as did IDF Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot and IDF Spokesman Moti Almoz. But many politicians on the right, primarily Education Minister Naftali Bennett, came out in defense of the soldier and criticized condemnations against him.

Herzog's fellow Zionist Union leader, Tzipi Livni, echoed his statements, saying, "We strengthened the Israeli democracy and the Supreme Court. When we did things right, we created a wall - on the one side were us, along with the rest of the world, while on the other side was the BDS movement, isolated. What's happening now is the exact opposite: The BDS movement is successful in isolating Israel despite the fact it still does not accept Israel's right to exist."

In order to once again turn the tide, Livni said, "we need to change our policies. Stop the attacks on the Supreme Court, support the IDF as a moral and strong army."

Zionist Union MK Tzipi Livni (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

She criticized the government for being intransigent because "everyone is against us anyway."

"It is ineffective to simply just sit here and complain about the fact we are hated," Livni said.

"There's a small group that hates us, and it is joined by those who disagree with our policies," she added, warning that this could turn into a social and cultural trend, which will only further exacerbate the problem.

Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid joined Herzog and Livni in criticizing the attacks against the IDF and the chief of staff.

"Politicians shouldn't be trying to gain political capital on the expense of our children and the values we raised them to adhere to," Lapid said.

Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

But unlike his two colleagues in the opposition who argued that Israel should focus on its policies rather than any specific attempt by BDS to de-legitimize Israel, Lapid has preferred to act on the smaller scale, asking for London Mayor Boris Johnson's help when anti-Israel ads were put up all over the British capital's Underground system, and speaking in front of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

He recognized that this was "an exhausting war. That is why people don't like dealing with it - because it's an exhausting war with many battles no one ever hears about."

However, he argued, "It can't be that the startup nation can't do a better job than what (BDS) is doing on social media. It can't be that a state with resources can't deal with such battles."

Representing the coalition at the conference were Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon and Education Minister Naftali Bennett.

Bennett rejected Tzipi Livni's arguments out of hand. "The most severe blows we suffered were in the Goldstone Report, in the Marmara incident and in Gaza. And we did exactly what the world asked. We expelled 8,000 Jews (during the Gaza disengagement - ed.) and gave the land up to Abbas, not to Hamas. It was there that we suffered the worst international blows and no one came to our defense when we were fighting to protect ourselves, we just got reports," he said.

Education Minister Naftali Bennett (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

He also responded to opposition criticism over the Hebron shooting incident, arguing that the discussion should not be about who is right - him or Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon. "A soldier was in the field. The question is, are we automatically assuming he acted out of malice, or are we assuming - as a default before the investigation is complete - that he's there to protect us? There are thousands of soldiers who keep us safe. We need to back them. The political ranks must back the IDF."

He lamented that so many people both in the government and in the opposition rushed to sentence the soldier right when it happened, before the incident was investigated.

Finance Minister Kahlon claimed that the boycott has not caused real economic damage to the State of Israel. "At the Finance Ministry we announced that if any economic or industrial company in the State of Israel suffers damages because of the boycott movement, we as a state will stand by it both economically and legally - we'll provide it with any service it needs. We must give them backing," he said.

Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

Kahlon also asserted that the Palestinians are the ones most affected by the BDS movement's actions "as the boycott harms the exports from the settlements, where most of the workers are Palestinians. We need security, the Palestinians need livelihood."

The finance minister also noted that NIS 128 million were allocated in the 2015-2016 budget to the fight against BDS.







Three other government ministers are scheduled to talk at the conference later Monday - Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked and Energy and Infrastructure Minister Yuval Steinitz.
EU Ambassador to Israel Lars Faaborg-Andersen stressed on Monday that the European Union was opposed to the BDS movement and that the labeling of West Bank products did not constitute a boycott.

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Faaborg-Andersen participated in Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference, despite calls from BDS activists to boycott the conference. "Sometimes extremist settlers criticize me, and now, the BDS movement does," he said.

The ambassador reiterated the EU's stance on the Israeli settlements in the West Bank: "They are illegal under international law, they are a hinderance to the peace process, and they aren't part of Israel. Our agreements concern products made within Israel's internationally recognized borders, border that don't include the settlements."

He also noted that "Our policy is engagement with Israel. We are Israel's largest trade partner, and we are Israel's most important international partner in science, technology, and the list goes on."

EU Ambassador to Israel speaks at the BDS conference (: RR )

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Faaborg-Andersen was quick to point out, however, that, "this isn't a boycott. We let (settlement products) be sold in Europe, but they have to be correctly labeled."

He argued that the threat of BDS should not be blown "out of proportion," and stressed that at present, the movement actually holds very little influence. With that in mind, he insisted that the BDS movement should not be given too much attention, as it could boost the movement's power.

The diplomat asserted that the key to defeating the BDS movement is in Israel and the Palestinians resolving their conflict. Israel, he said, should stop "being seen as undermining the two state solution" and must "show more of a will to move forward with the process."

"With no Palestinian issue," he said, "there will be no BDS issue. We don't expect Israel to be able to solve this issue alone."
JERUSALEM - Israel has issued a new travel advisory for Turkey, warning its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible and avoid any traveling there.

The "high concrete threat" is the second-highest warning level that Israel can issue. It raises the directive issued after three Israeli tourists were killed in an Istanbul suicide bombing earlier in March.

The National Security Council advised on Monday that "the risk of additional attacks from terrorist organizations is rising, with an emphasis on the Islamic State, on tourist destinations and in general Israeli tourists."

Israel now ranks Turkey's threat at the same threat level as Afghanistan.
Two Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem were indicted on Monday with attempting to carry out a terror attack in Israel inspired by the Islamic State group.

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According to the indictment, during 2015, the two attempted to create an improvised explosive device (IED) and use it against Israeli security forces.

The suspects, Musab Eliyan, 23, and Samir Abed Rabo, 38, were charged with a variety of offenses, including support of an outlawed group, membership in a terrorist organization, and contact with a foreign agent.

Eliyan, according to the indictment, began supporting ISIS in 2014, and by 2015 started attending Islamic group study sessions where ISIS ideology was pushed. Eliyan then began to see himself as a part of ISIS and even decided to travel to Syria to fight with the group's militants there.

One of the people who allegedly tried to join ISIS (Photo: Yoav Davidkovitz)

He travelled to Jordan in October 2015 to get a Jordanian passport in order to fly to Turkey, and continue into Syria from there. He was, however, promptly arrested by Jordanian authorities, and after being interrogated for several days, extradited to Israel.

Once back in Israel, Eliyan began collecting money in order to go to the Turkish consulate and get the required travel documents.

Meanwhile, he looked into whether or not he could get to ISIS in Syria by travelling through the Sinai Peninsula, and followed ISIS activities on the internet during this time period.

At the end of 2015, the two suspects allegedly got in contact with each other in order to build an IED to blow up a military vehicle. Eliyan planned the attack, and asked Abed Rabo for help, since the latter had previous bomb-making experience.

The two purchased cell phones that they planned to use to activate the IED, a coffee grinder to mix the chemicals needed in order to make explosives, an ampere meter and iron oxide powder. Later, they allegedly held other meetings to talk about other materials needed for the attack and about its implementation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Suspension Act is scheduled to go to a vote in the Knesset on Monday, but it is unclear whether the coalition would have sufficient support to pass it.

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The legislation was proposed after Arab MKs from the Balad party met with families of Palestinian terrorists who committed attacks over the past six months of hostilities.

The bill seeks to amend Basic Law: The Knesset, allowing a supermajority (of 90 MKs) in the legislature to suspend a fellow lawmaker if he or she rejects Israel's right to exist as both a Jewish and democratic state, incites to racism, or supports an armed conflict of an enemy state or terror organization against Israel.





Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Photo: Eli Mendelbaum)

In serious cases, the suspension will last until the end of the term and lead to the replacement of the MK with the next candidate on the party list.

Likud MKs Avraham Neguise and Dudu Amsalem have threatened not to vote on the legislation in protest of the government's decision to halt efforts to bring the remaining members of the Falash Mura community from Ethiopia to Israel.

This will bring the vote to a 59:59 tie between the coalition and opposition.

Meanwhile, MK Avigdor Lieberman, whose Yisrael Beytenu party has six seats in the opposition, said he would only support the Suspension Act if the coalition in turn supports his separation of power legislation.

"The prime minister knows that he would never be able to bring together 90 MKs to support the suspension of another MK," Lieberman said at Yisrael Beytenu's weekly faction meeting.

Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman.

"If you want our support," he noted, "it will be on the condition you support our proposal - the separation of powers bill - meaning the Supreme Court would not be able to interfere in decisions made by the Knesset. If they support our bill, we'll support that 'Israbluff' they're proposing."

Arab MKs meeting with families of terrorists.

A month ago, the Knesset's Constitution, Law and Justice Committee approved the proposal amidst much contention. Opposition members left the room in protest before the voting commenced, leaving only seven out of the 15 committee members to approve the bill.

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit approved the legislation, but urged caution. There are inherent difficulties in trying peers on the basis of ideology, while empowering a political majority of MKs to end the tenure of a sitting, lawfully-elected Knesset member," he said. This law provides openings for harassment of the minority by the majority, thus thwarting the will of the voters. That is why the formulation of its details requires great care.
Interior Minister Aryeh Deri said Monday that he is considering revoking the resident status of BDS founder Omar Barghouti.

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Deri was among four government ministers to participate in an afternoon question and answer round at Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference in Jerusalem. Transportation Minister Yisrael Katz, Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked and Energy Minister Yuval Steinitz also answered questions about combating BDS.

Earlier in the day, Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon and Education Minister Naftali Bennett took part in the morning question and answer round , along with Opposition leader Isaac Herzog, MK Tzipi Livni and MK Yair Lapid.

"The revoking of citizenship or residency is a tool that is hardly ever used because it constitutes a human rights violation," Deri said.

Interior Minister Aryeh Deri (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

The interior minister has already revoked the resident status of several terrorists from East Jerusalem who committed attacks over the past six months.

Barghouti, he said, was born in Qatar and received a resident status in 1994 after marrying an Israeli woman from Acre and claiming his life is in Israel.

"And now it turns out it's not true. I was given information that his life is in Ramallah and he is using his resident status to travel all over the world in order to operate against Israel in the most serious manner," Deri said. "He was given rights similar to those of a citizen and he took advantage of our enlightened state to portray us as the most horrible state in the world."

Transportation and Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz, meanwhile, called for a "targeted civic prevention effort" against BDS leaders and activists with the help of Israel's intelligence capabilities.

Katz elaborated that this effort entailed Israel's intelligence agencies exposing BDS leaders and activists who may be breaking Israeli law by being in contact with "elements hostile to the State of Israel," which in turn will allow Israel to isolate them and "pass information on them to intelligence agencies around the world."

Katz rejected the claim made by Opposition leader Isaac Herzog, MK Tzipi Linvi and US Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro that Israel's policies and the lack of resolution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict were what fuelled the BDS movement.

Transportation and Intelligence Minister Yisrael Katz (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"This is an organization whose goal is to undermine the existence of the State of Israel. This isn't about criticism of Israeli policy, which is a legitimate thing that we know how to deal with. They have a clear objective to destroy the State of Israel," Katz said.

Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked discussed the legal steps taken by the Israeli government to combat the BDS movement, saying this is the first government to treat the issue with the seriousness it requires.

Shaked noted that she recently increased the manpower of a department within the Justice Ministry dedicated to the issue, and elaborated on measures taken by that department.

"We hired the services of law firms abroad to examine the tools that can be used to deal with a decision like the one made by the EU to label settlement products from the West Bank," Shaked said. "We take advantage of local legislation to fight BDS and we're also promoting legislation in other countries."

Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

"We see a lot of successes recently because Israel is diplomatically active," she added.

"When I meet with my colleagues, justice ministers from other countries, I feel that there's great cooperation. Justice ministers around the world are great friends of Israel. They all love Israel and want to cooperate with it, especially in light of Israel's experience in the war against terrorism," Shaked went on to say.

The justice minister asserted that the BDS movement was motivated by hatred to the State of Israel and by anti-Semitism. "It has nothing to do with one policy or another of the State of Israel," she determined.

Energy and Infrastructure Minister Yuval Steinitz lamented the fact that Israel is being targeted specifically.

"When states or groups or universities boycott Israel and then don't take similar actions against Turkish companies investing in northern Cyprus or in any other territorial dispute - you see double standards only against the Jewish state," he said. "If that's not anti-Semitism, then I don't know what is."
US Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro rebuked the BDS movement and stated clearly that the US government strongly opposes its activities. "The United States of America vigorously opposes efforts to isolate or boycott Israel. We have demonstrated this commitment for decades and continue to devote substantial resources in our government to this fight. We consider it an extension of our longstanding commitment to fight any effort to delegitimize Israel," he told Ynet and Yediot Ahronoth's anti-BDS conference.

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Ambassador Shapiro at the conference. (: RR )

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Ambassador Shapiro claimed that the US is actively undertaking measures to undermine BDS. "We lead what could be called a 'counter boycott,' demonstrating through our actions that we seek the opposite of boycotts; we seek to make our economic ties with Israel stronger with each passing year," he said.

Shapiro also alleged that the BDS movement is not free of anti-Semitism. "We know that the BDS movement is not disconnected from the pernicious and persistent evil of anti-Semitism, which continues to rear its ugly head and is on the rise in too many parts of the world," he remarked.

He added that US Vice President Joe Biden has affirmed this very point. "As Vice President Biden stated last week, 'when swastikas are painted on synagogues, when Jewish people are targeted in terrorist attacks, when thousands of European Jews immigrate to Israel out of fear, when a seemingly organized effort to discredit, delegitimize, and isolate Israel persists on the international stage, its dangerous. Its wrong," he said.

US Ambassador Dan Shapiro. (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

He also claimed that there should be no doubts regarding President Obama's policy on BDS. Shapiro quoted Obama, who recently said, I have directed my Administration to strongly oppose boycotts, divestment campaigns, and sanctions targeting the State of Israel. As long as I am President, we will continue to do so.

Shapiro maintained that US policy is not merely limited to rhetoric. "Our opposition is not rhetorical; we have demonstrated this commitment for decades. In the Commerce Department, for example, we have a dedicated team of 'boycott busters', who work to ensure that American companies comply with their legal obligations to report the receipt of boycott requests and to refuse to take actions that would restrict trade with Israel."

President Obama. A strong opposition to boycotts. (Photo: Getty Images)

He added that economic cooperation between Israel and the United States has flourished, despite the increasing influence of the BDS movement. "Our Free Trade Agreement, the first America signed with any country, has been an economic driver for more than three decades. This framework has helped spark exponential growth in bilateral trade, from some $8 billion a year when the agreement was signed in 1985 to over $45 billion today," remarked Shapiro.

However, Shapiro closed his speech arguing that counter-boycott efforts also should include a robust peace process with the Palestinians. "When we have such a tool (a peace process), our hand is strengthened, not with the core advocates of BDS, who have a truly anti-Israel agenda independent of the conflict, but with those who are persuadable, and there are significant numbers of such people. So it is certainly in Israels and our interests to find our way back to negotiations with the Palestinians."
The Palestinian government asked the United Nations on Monday to launch an investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings by Israel following the deadly shooting last week by an Israeli soldier of a wounded Palestinian assailant as he lay on the ground.

The Israeli military has detained the soldier while it investigates the shooting, captured on video by a Palestinian activist. Palestinian official Saeb Erekat said that past Israeli investigations have failed to "serve justice," claiming instead that Israel has been "rewarded with impunity."
Syrian antiquities experts expressed shock Monday at the destruction the Islamic State group wrought inside Palmyra's museum, where scores of artifacts were smashed before troops drove the extremists out of the historic town.

Syria's head of antiquities and museums, Maamoun Abdul-Karim, told The Associated Press that a team from his department will head to Palmyra later in the day to estimate the losses. Abdul-Karim said he would go himself once bomb squads finish removing explosives planted by the extremists before they lost the town.
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New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said his government was committed to reducing taxes to make Delhi a state with the lowest taxes in the country.

Addressing mediapersons after the Delhi government presented its annual budget, Kejriwal said: "VAT has been reduced on many goods. We are sure that if people of Delhi can follow the odd-even scheme, then they will also cooperate and pay taxes properly. This is how we`ll be able to reduce and rationalize taxes.

"We shall keep reducing taxes and VAT, and soon within four-five years taxes in Delhi will be the lowest in India," he said.

He also took a dig at other state governments for decreasing the budget allocation for health and education.

"Education and health budget has been reduced by other state governments to promote private education and private hospitals. This is because many ministers in other states own schools and hospitals. They have spoiled the public education system and public health system," the chief minister said.

"We are working to strengthen the public education system so that soon people will withdraw their wards from private schools and admit them in government schools. Other state governments jeopardized the public health services just to benefit the private players to keep their private hospitals running. We are here to change that," he added.

Kejriwal also stressed on the need to improve health services in the capital.

"For the first time the USA had appreciated our health system. They have appreciated the models of the mohalla clinics and want to emulate these," said Kejriwal.

"Much has been done for women security. About 42,000 dark spots in Delhi have been identified and these will be illuminated. About Rs.200 crore will be spent on media advertisements. Of Rs.526 crore allocated last year, only Rs.150 crore was spent on advertisements and the rest was saved."
Washington: Hindus in the US are up in arms against suggestions mooted by California's Department of Education to make changes in textbooks which they allege not only distort India's history but ignore facts on Hinduism.

Following protests from Hindus across the nation, the California Education Department has decided not to go ahead with some of the suggested changes like replacing 'India' with 'South Asia' in state text books.

Bill Honig, Chair of the Subject Matter Committee of the Commission, said at a public hearing that they reject the suggestion for removal of India but agreed to add "South Asia" in parenthesis after most mentions to ancient India.

New recommendations will be forwarded to the State Board of Education for their consideration and the final draft of the framework is to be accepted later this year.

But Hindu-Americans continue to oppose some of the proposed edits like removing mention of Hinduism's acceptance of religious diversity, re-linking Hinduism with caste, and removing mention of the contributions of Hindu sages of different backgrounds such as Valmiki and Vyasa.

"We question the move to insert a large number of adverse edits on India and Hinduism at the last minute at the instance of a few Leftist scholars," said the Hindu Education Foundation (HEF), which has been working with commission for the past many years.

"While some important inaccuracies have been rolled back, a large number of adverse edits these academics submitted have still found their way into the recommendations and need to be scrutinised," it said.

It also protested the removal of the mention of non- Brahmin sages like Valmiki and Vyasa from the textbooks at the suggestion of these academics.

"It is strange that while claiming to represent the underprivileged, the Leftist professors of South Asian faculty group have sought the removal of the mention that these sages came from lower castes which had specifically been added at the suggestion of Hindu groups to give fair representation to all communities," the statement said.

A large number of students and parents testified at the public hearing of the commission held in Sacramento on March 24 seeking the rejection of these changes.

"India is not just a landmass but a living civilization. By removing the mention of India as a civilization, my identity as an Indian-American is sought to be erased," Vidhima Shetty, a student studying in 9th grade in San Ramon, said during her testimony at the Department of Education.

Narrating different incidents of stereotypes they encounter, the students demanded that Hinduism and India be portrayed in proper light.

The students also demanded that the suggestions that Vedas belong to "ancient Indian religions" and not to Hinduism amounted to stripping them of their Hindu identity.

The community's efforts were also supported by a coalition of 20 government leaders and elected officials, including Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and California State Senator Steven M Glazer.
Singapore: India is one of the fastest growing pre-schooler markets for the Singapore-based Modern Montessori International Group (MMI) owned by a leading Indian-origin businessman here.

"We are expanding fast in India. Our fastest mode of expansion in India is through franchising," MMI chairman and chief executive officer Dr T Chandroo said.

"Almost every month we have two new franchises who sign with us," he said after launching his biography "Reach The Top with Big Dreams" at the Singapore Management University yesterday.

"Franchise is the fastest mode of entry into the Indian market," said Chandroo who brought the UK-origin MMI brand of pre-schooling to Singapore 25 years ago.

MMI has 20 centres in India out of the 100, it currently runs across three continents ? Asia, Europe and Africa, said Chandroo, one of the leading Indian-origin businessmen here.

Thirty of these centres are in Singapore, making it one of the most popular options for building basic foundation of pre-schoolers.

"Going forward, we plan to expand in emerging markets, starting with Vietnam where our first pre-school is being establish," said Dr Chandroo who owns the MMI global business now, having acquired the UK-business 10 years ago.

He is also planning to expand MMI brand pre-schooling to Cambodia, Myanmar and the Middle East region.

Its global network currently includes pre-schools in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt.
Zee Media Bureau/Shruti Mishra

New Delhi: Epilepsy is the most common type of serious brain disorder characterized by repeated seizures. It is also known as seizure disorder and effects the nervous system of the body.

A seizure is sudden disturbances in the electrical activity of the brain that causes change in behavior, movements and consciousness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has clarified that epilepsy is treatable and has nothing to do with mental disorder. The type and frequency of seizures varies from person to person but none of them are contagious.

This disease is not age-related but some people experiences first sign of seizure before the age of 20.

In most of the cases the root cause of epilepsy is not known. Health experts suggest that it can be genetic or caused by infections from parasites.

Till now no medication or vaccine is available which can prevent epilepsy from developing. But once it is diagnosed the seizures can be controlled by surgery or medication.

WHO through this animated video explains every details about the low-cost treatment of epilepsy and also encourages countries to participate in 'Reducing the Epilepsy Treatment Gap'.

(Video courtesy: WHO)
New Delhi: A local court on Monday granted bail to 25 students and two faculty members of the Hyderabad University who were arrested on charges of vandalising the Vice-Chancellor Appa Rao Podile's lodge during a protest last week.

All of the accused were granted bail on a one time surety of Rs 5000 each. They also have to appear before police station once a week.

On Tuesday last week, a group of of university students and some faculty members staged protest outside Vice Chancellor Appa Rao Podile lodge, who rejoined work after nearly two months on leave.

Initially, the protest was peaceful but the scene turned ugly when some protesters pelted stones at the cops on duty.

Police bundled out many students out of the campus, triggering strong protest by teaching and non-teaching staff members. Police also arrested few students and faculty members.

The police action came after the students, who have been protesting ever since Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula committed suicide inside the varsity campus, barged into the office of the vice-chancellor and ransacked the furniture.

Appa Rao had gone on leave on January 24 amid massive protests on the campus over the suicide of Rohith Vemula.

The Joint Action Committee for Social Justice, an umbrella grouping of various students' bodies, has blamed Appa Rao, central ministers Smriti Irani and Bandaru Dattatreya and a leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) for the suspension of five Dalit students, one of whom Rohith committed suicide on January 17.

Rohith, 26, committed suicide by hanging himself in the Hyderabad Central University campus in January. He was earlier suspended from the university hostel in August last year by the administration for allegedly attacking an ABVP leader.

The university had allegedly stopped giving scholarship to Rohith after the incident which led to financial hardship and culminated in his suicide.
New Delhi: Making a veiled attack on Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the Congress' decline is due to problems of its leadership and compared it to an "obsolete car" manufacturer who could survive in the past due to monopoly but not now.

"If you look state after state, the Congress party is losing a lot of its leaders. I see two particular reasons for it. A party, which has dominated India's politics for six decades and has been in power for almost 50 years or so, has suddenly started taking positions, which mainstream parties should not take. Their success is now measured by how much they can obstruct.

"Secondly the pitfalls of the leadership, which is not merit based is clearly being reflected.... And one of the principal grievances, a lot of its tall leaders have had, was the inability to communicate with the central decision makers or decision maker," Jaitley told PTI in an interaction.

Noting that there is still a large number of political parties, which depend upon the "crowd around a family", the Finance Minister said that the strength of these parties will depend on the capacity of that current generation to hold it together. "And I think the Congress is losing out on that," he said.

Listing the problems being faced by Congress in a number of states like Kerala, Assam, Arunchal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the Finance Minister said that the "shrinking" of Congress base was also happening in Punjab where elections are due next year.

"If you prepare a list of all the big business houses or 20 big business houses before 1991 and compare them with the top 20 in 2016, how many in the list are common.

"The pre-1991 belonged to the family owned companies, beneficiaries of the license regime, those who prevented competition and prevented others from entering. Even if you manufacture an obsolete car, you were near monopoly player because others were all swept.

"Post 1991, that changed. I think to a large extent, it is symbolic of what's happening to India. You take any profession. Just because your father was a great lawyer or you were doctor or you had family business does not matter," Jaitley said.

Noting that India's character is also changing to be more youthful, certainly post independence generation, he said that is why state after state, one will now find merit- based leadership.
New Delhi: The Congress on Monday questioned the government's move to give Pakistan's security and intelligence officials access to the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot to probe the January terror attack.

"Pakistan has provided no assurance of action. Yet their team has been allowed to investigate the Pathankot terror attack (in India)," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

Surjewala said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government had not been able to "differentiate between state actors and non state actors" perpetrating anti-India cross-border terror.

"Does the move (of allowing Pakistani investigators in India) imply that the Pakistan (government) has had no involvement in spreading terror in India?" Surjewala asked.

"The prime minister should introspect properly and answer the nation. Is there a guarantee that the team will not favour the terrorists," he said.

Surjewala also questioned the possible outcome of the Pakistani investigation.

"How will the investigation be undertaken? Will the terrorists be handed over to the Indian government or will the cases against them be proceeded in Pakistani courts?"

The five-member Pakistani team arrived here on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack at the Pathankot air base in Punjab. The team will travel to Pathankot on Monday evening and question witnesses there.

According to official sources, the Pakistani team will be given limited access to the Indian airbase where at least seven military personnel were killed after a gun and bomb attack by alleged Pakistani terrorists.

One civilian was also killed in the attack on the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. Six terrorists who had crossed over into Punjab from Pakistan were also killed.

This is for the first time New Delhi has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country.

The access was granted as India hoped that Pakistan will bring to justice the alleged perpetrators, including Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar.


Quepem: The External Affairs Ministry has been asked to extend all possible help to former Navy official Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested by Pakistan claiming he was a RAW operative, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

"We do agree, to the extent I know, that he is an Indian citizen and we have asked for consular access," Parrikar said, adding that he is concerned about Jadhav since he is a veteran.

Giving details, the Minister said he had "indicated" to the MEA that Jadhav is an ex-officer and should be given all assistance and support required.

Praising External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Parrikar said the MEA was doing its best.

He said that Swaraj is very active and one can even reach her at night on Twitter and get a reply with action taken reports usually given by (next) morning.

"Sushmaji has been working vigorously to help Indians abroad who are in problem. In this case, since the other country has made allegations, it may take a longer time," he said.

Parrikar refused to comment anything more on Jadhav saying "other than paying him One Rank One Pension I cannot talk about anything on an ex officer".

Jadhav, a 1991 commissioned Naval officer, was arrested earlier this month by Pakistan authorities on the charges that he was dealing with Balochistan freedom fighters.

The allegation was that the officer, who retired in 2013, was an active RAW agent, a charge denied by India.

Government sources have said that Jadhav was a small businessman.

It is said that he often carried cargo to and from Iranian ports bordering Pakistan and has nothing to do with India's external intelligence agency.

Sources have said that there is no proof that the retired navy officer, who owns a cargo business in Iran, was arrested in Balochistan as claimed by Pakistan.

Jadhav could have been arrested after he strayed into Pakistani waters and was being wrongly charged, they said.

It is a matter of investigation whether he had accidentally strayed into Pakistani waters or was lured into Pakistan, sources have said.
New Delhi: RSS on Monday accused Leftist scholars of attempting to replace 'India' with 'South Asia' in textbooks in California and said efforts by Hindu activists have thwarted their bid to "undermine the country's glorious identity".

Hindus in the US are up in arms against suggestions mooted by California's Department of Education to make changes in textbooks which they alleged not only distorted India's history but ignored facts on Hinduism.

"Congrats to Hindu activists for successfully opposing and contesting the suggestion to replace 'India' by 'South Asia' in textbooks in USA.

"The Leftist scholars' bid to undermine India's glorious identity was foiled by young Hindu activists and Hindu Education Foundation (HEF) in California, USA," RSS spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya said.

He said India has its own identity that needs to be preserved and termed the move to replace it with 'South Asia' as "wrong".

"India has its own identity. India has a glorious civilisation and cultural history which was known the world over. It is very wrong to deprive India's identity. The Hindu activists have rightly carried out a campaign and demonstrated against the move," he told PTI.

Following protests from Hindus, the California Education Department decided not to go ahead with some of the suggested changes like replacing 'India' with 'South Asia' in state textbooks.

Bill Honig, Chair of the Subject Matter Committee of the Commission, said, at a public hearing, that they reject the suggestion for removal of India but agreed to add 'South Asia' in parenthesis after most mentions to ancient India.

The new recommendations will be forwarded to the State Board of Education for their consideration and the final draft of the framework is to be accepted later this year.
New Delhi: The Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allowing the Pakistan Joint Investigation Team (JIT), probing Pathankot Air Force base attack , to visit India.

Kejriwal said that instead of allowing the Pakistan team to visit the attack sites, an Indian team should have visited the neighbouring country to investigate.

The Delhi CM also questioned the point of having a member from the Pakistan's spy agency ISI in the JIT, when the agency is itself suspected to have masterminded the deadly attack.

India and Pakistan on Monday began formal discussions on investigations into the terror attack at the Pathankot IAF base, making it the first-ever visit of a Joint Investigation Team from the neighbouring country that included an ISI official.

The five-member Pakistani JIT is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer, Shahid Tanveer.

The team, which arrived on Sunday, will on Tuesday visit Pathankot for the probe into the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group on January 2, which left seven security personnel dead.

Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar clarified that Pakistan's JIT won't get access to the entire Pathankot airbase.

"We have specially denied them (Pakistan's JIT) permission to go anywhere in the airbase," Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said.

"They (JIT officials) are only allowed access to the place where crime took place; the area is cordoned off and NIA is investigating the case," Manohar Parrikar added.
New Delhi: In a major development in Pathankot terror attack, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday clarified that Pakistan's Joint Investigation Team (JIT) won't get access to the entire Pathankot airbase.

"We have specially denied them (Pakistan's JIT) permission to go anywhere in the airbase," Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said.

"They (JIT officials) are only allowed access to the place where crime took place; the area is cordoned off and NIA is investigating the case," Manohar Parrikar added.

India and Pakistan on Monday began formal discussions on investigations into the terror attack at the Pathankot IAF base, making it the first-ever visit of a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from the neighbouring country that included an ISI official.

The five-member Pakistani JIT is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer, Shahid Tanveer.

The team was received at the headquarters of National Investigation Agency by Inspector General Sanjiv Kumar Singh.

They are being given a detailed presentation on the probe done by Indian agencies so far and evidences that show that the attack was planned in Pakistan, official sources said.

The team, which arrived on Sunday, will on Tuesday visit Pathankot for the probe into the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group on January 2, which left seven security personnel dead.
Delhi: India will ask for voice samples of JeM founder and chief, Maulana Masood Azhar, from Pakistan regarding Pathankot terror attack, as per reports on Monday.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) sources have said that they have got enough evidence against Azhar.

Moments before the attack Azhar was reportedly in touch with his brother Rauf Asgar, the 'supreme commander' of JeM.

And Rauf Asgar was in turn touch with their key planner and handler Kashif Jaan.

NIA have got evidence and intercepts of the conversations between the slain terrorists and their JeM bosses, sources further told Zee Media.

NIA sources added that in 90 percent of the conversations, Kashif Jaan was talking to terrorists from Bahawalpur in Pakistan and was almost dictating to them how the plan was to be executed.

At the same time, JeM bosses including Kashif Jaan had escorted the terrorists till the point of infiltration from Pakistani side, said NIA sources.

Indian and Pakistani probe teams held talks on the investigation into Pathankot attack today.

A five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan, that included an ISI official, reached India yesterday to carry out a probe into the attack at the IAF base at Pathankot marking the first-ever such visit to the country to probe a terror case.

It will also analyse investigations being carried out by the NIA so far.

The team was received by officials of the NIA and Pakistan High Commission.

It will visit Pathankot tomorrow.

The team is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General Intelligence Bureau Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

(With PTI inputs)
Delhi: A five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan, which reached India yesterday to carry out a probe into the attack at the IAF base at Pathankot, met National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Monday.

The team met NIA officials at their headquarters in central Delhi.

This is the first-ever such visit to the country to probe a terror case.

The team will on Tuesday visit Pathankot and is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General Intelligence Bureau Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

In the post-lunch session, the Pakistani team would be raising their set of questions to the NIA investigators to clear doubts, if any.

The IAF airbase will be visually barricaded by NIA to prevent any view of its critical areas and NIA team would show some of the areas where the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists were engaged in an 80-hour-long gun battle with security personnel.

India plans to provide the probe team from Pakistan access to all witnesses in the Pathankot terror attack case but not security personnel from National Security Guard or the BSF.

The sources said that cooperation to the Pakistani team would be based on the principle of reciprocity hoping that an Indian team would be allowed to travel to Pakistan at a later date.

Witnesses, excepting personnel of NSG, BSF and Garud commandos of IAF, have been lined up for the Pakistan probe team.

The witnesses include Punjab Police Superintendent of Police Salwinder Singh, his jeweller friend Rajesh Verma and cook Madan Gopal and 17 injured people.

Seven security personnel were killed in the attack.

(With PTI inputs)
New Delhi: A week after the deadly terror bombings in Brussels, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave for the Belgian capital tomorrow night as part of a three- nation tour during which he will attend the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington and visit Saudi Arabia.

In Brussels, Modi will attend the long-pending India-EU summit. He will also hold a bilateral summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel where ways to deal with terrorism will form a "very important part".

The India-EU Summit is aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two sides which are likely to deliberate on ways to finalise the free trade agreement. The last Summit had taken place in 2012.

India-EU ties witnessed some strain after the 28-member bloc had not responded to New Delhi's proposal for a brief visit by Modi to Brussels, the EU headquarters, during his trip to France, Germany and Canada in April last year.

"The attacks in Brusels, of course, will be a very important part of the discussions. In fact, it will be the starting point of the talks," Joint Secretary (Europe) Nandini Singla, told reporters.

In Brussels, Modi will meet top businessmen, including a delegation of diamond traders, and will also address the Indian diaspora. He will also meet Parliamentarians and a delegation of indologists, separately.

Antwerp in Belgium is the largest diamond trading hub globally as about 84 per cent of the world's rough diamonds passes through there. There is a sizeable presence of Indian traders in Antwerp.

From Brussels, Modi will leave for Washington to attend the 4th Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) on March 31 and April 1 where he will be making some specific announcemnents and proposals with regard to nuclear security.

India will submit a national progress report on nuclear security at the summit, which is also expected to deliberate on ways to tackle nuclear terrorism.

Asked whether Modi will meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Washington, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup did not give a direct answer and only said it was usual for leaders to meet their counterparts on the margins of international meets.

From Washington, Modi will travel to Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh on April 2 for a two-day visit at the invitation of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.
Dehradun: Amid political turmoil in Uttarakhand, which led to President's Rule being imposed in the state, former chief minister Harish Rawat called for a meeting of state's Congress legislators here on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Congress party is all set to challenge the imposition of President's rule in the court.

Senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal, stating that they would approach the court, accused the BJP of hatching a conspiracy against Congress ruled states.

Uttarakhand Speaker, Govind Singh Kunjwal, on Sunday disqualified nine Congress legislators, who had rebelled against the former chief minister Harish Rawat-led government in the state.

The decision to disqualify the nine legislators would reduce the effective strength of the 70-member assembly to 61.

After almost seven days of verbal battle between the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the political crisis in Uttarakhand, President's rule was imposed in the hill state on Sunday.

The recommendation for central rule was made by the Union Cabinet at its emergency meeting last night, which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Congress had dubbed the cabinet meeting as the last phase of the drama scripted by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
New Delhi: The Congress Party on Monday questioned the inclusion of an ISI officer in the Pakistan Joint Investigation Team (JIT) that is visiting India to probe the January 2016 terrorist attack on the Pathankot Air Force Base.

"Pakistan has not provided a letter rogatory for the visit of the JIT team, without it there is no guarantee of prosecution. One is forced to wonder what the investigation all about is. Why is an officer of the infamous ISI of Pakistan a part of the JIT? The role of the dreaded terrorist organisation - Jaish-e-Mohammad, its chief Maulana Masood Azhar, his brother Abdul Rauf, who was one of the handlers of Pathankot terror attack is well-known and widely accepted. Despite this, Pakistan Government till today has taken no action either against Jaish-e-Mohammad in terms of banning it or in terms of arresting Maulana Masood Azhar or his brother or the other handler Kashif Jaan," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told the media here.

"Unfettered access being provided to them (Pakistan JIT) and also red carpet welcome accorded by the Indian government. It raises serious question with regard to judicial propriety and genuine apprehensions vis-a-vis compromising on national security. Serious questions are also being raised about Modi government`s U-turn in terms of segregation of state and non-state actors in Pakistan, who are indulging in rampant and senseless export of terror into India on an everyday basis, causing serious and irreparable loss of civilian and military lives," he added.

Surjewala further stated that the BJP Government must need to evaluate and reflect upon and answer some of the genuine apprehensions in mind of national security experts, as also, people of the country.

"Prima facie it appears to be a case of an accused investigating himself. Secondly, by allowing a Pakistani investigation team to visit and investigate. The BJP government has for the first time distinguished and therefore recognized that Pakistani establishment does not have a role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in context to Pathankot terror attack," he said.

Currently, the meeting between the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials and a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan is currently underway at the NIA headquarter. The team would visit Pathankot on March 29.

According to sources, the JIT comprises of Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) AIG Rai Tahir as convener, Intelligence Bureau Lahore Deputy Director General Azim Arshad, Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed of the ISI, Lt Col Irfan Mirza of MI and Gujranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

On January 2, terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station, part of the Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force. Four terrorists were killed and two security personnel were martyred in the gun battle.
Imphal: Work on the 84-km Jiribam-Tupul railway expansion project in Manipur, something that could boost Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious 'Act East' policy in linking up with tiger economies of Southeast and East Asia, is way behind schedule.

"How can there be a Delhi-Hanoi Trans-Asian Railway if India cannot complete its railway expansion through Manipur before it links up with the Myanmar railway system?" says logistic expert Atin Kumar Sen, a former office-bearer with the Asian Council of Logistics Management.

But it is not funds that is holding up work on the Manipur railway project. The government has allotted Rs.1,397 crore for the Jiribam-Tupul segment and the implementing agency, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), was comfortable with it.

But officials are worried over the law and order situation and threat of abductions and attacks faced by companies working on the project.

"Law and order is horrible, all companies working on the project suffer huge extortion," said Sen.

Work stopped for weeks after Mohammed Munir Raza, a manager with Coastal Projects, was kidnapped by militants of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) in January this year.

The ZUF is one of the more than dozen armed groups that are forcing companies to pay through their nose or suffer abductions.

Workers and managers often flee construction sites for fear of abductions or attacks when their companies say no more payments can be made.

The Manipur government has done little to control the situation that threatens to derail one of India's most ambitious infrastructure projects.

What worries companies the most is that the ZUF, despite being down to hardly 25 activists, can go scot free because it enjoys backing of a top tribal minister in the Ibobi Singh government.

Intelligence officials say a former home ministry official who was behind the ZUF's formation as a 'counter-weight' to Naga rebel group NSCN is now back as a senior official in his parent Manipur cadre.

"If someone with 25 activists can hold a national project like this to ransom, we would expect the Centre to deploy the army and central paramilitary forces to ensure completion of this project," says a top manager of a company working in Tupul.

But home ministry officials say that may not be possible because law and order is a state subject and any uncalled-for central intervention will provoke cries of federalism in danger, especially because the Manipur government is run by the Congress and the one in Delhi by the BJP.

The Jiribam-Tupul section has 112 minor bridges, six major bridges, three road overbridges and two road under-bridges.

In the first phase, there will be 34 tunnels covering a length of 39,401 metres.

The longest tunnel in the Jiribam-Tupul section will be 4.9 km in length, while the longest tunnel in the Tupul-Imphal section will be 10.75 km.

The 12.5 km track linking the main line from Jiribam to Dholakhal section and 1.20 km of loop line have been completed.

But the rest of the Jiribam-Tupul project, that was to be fully completed by March 2016, is way behind schedule.

The railways had told the Modi government that the Tupul-Imphal section, covering 27 km, cannot now be completed within the target date of March 2018, since the first phase (Jiribam-Tupul) is behind schedule.

Modi's plans to take the railway line to Moreh, 109 km from Imphal on the Manipur-Myanmar border, looks like distant.

"At the present rate, the railway will not reach Moreh before 2023 unless the government in Delhi and Imphal wake up and push the project," says economist Indraneel Bhowmik who specialises on the northeast.

Tripura also faced the same problem, but it crushed the insurgent groups through some tough action including hitting their bases across the border in Bangladesh.

Soon the rebels were controlled, the railway line to Agartala was laid and now it is being linked with Akhaura on the border with the Bangladesh railway system.

"That resolve is missing in Manipur, where insurgency is big business and top ministers seem to be directly working in tandem with rebels of their ethnic group," says Major General Gaganjit Singh (retd), former deputy chief of the Defence Intelligence Agency.
Islamabad: A day after scores of people were killed in an attack in Lahore, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday cancelled his Washington visit, said a statement issued by Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Sharif was scheduled to attend Nuclear Security Summit in the United States on March 31.

Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Syed Tariq Fatemi Pakistan, will now head Islamabad's delegation to Nuclear Security Summit in Washington.

Sharif spent the whole day today in Lahore condoling with the bereaved families, as well as visiting the hospitals to meet those injured in the tragic terrorist attack.

The attack claimed at least 72 lives and injured over 200 people.

Sharif also vowed to eliminate terrorism from his country.

Addressing the nation in the wake of a fedayeen attack Sharif said, "I reiterate our nation's resolve to fight out terrorism till it is rooted out from our society. Terrorists would be made accountable for every drop of blood of martyrs, and action against them would continue till we made them accountable for the last drop of the blood."

Pakistan has actively participated in the NSS process and has built a strong Command and Control System and multi-layered security of its nuclear programme.
Lahore: Pakistani authorities launched a hunt on Monday for militants behind a suicide bomb that killed at least 65 people in an attack that targeted Christians and was claimed by a Taliban faction that once declared ties with Islamic State.

Most of the victims of the bomb attack at a park in the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday evening were women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing.

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

Officials said at least 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. The death toll was expected to rise.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

A faction of the Pakistani Taliban called Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, and issued a direct challenge to the government.

"The target was Christians," said a faction spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said.

"We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore."

The group has claimed responsibility for several big attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. It declared allegiance to the Islamic State but later said it was rejoining the Taliban insurgency.

While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also attacked.

Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under a major crackdown launched after Taliban gunmen massacred 134 children at a military-run school in Peshawar in December 2014.

Lahore is the capital of Pakistan`s richest province, Punjab, and is widely seen as the political heartland of Sharif and his ruling party.

Sharif`s office condemned the blast as a cowardly act and said a response had been ordered, without elaborating.

Pakistan`s security agencies have long been accused of nurturing some militants to use for help in pursuing security objectives in Afghanistan and against old rival India.

The Pakistani Taliban are fighting to topple the government and install a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Sharif`s opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.
Lahore: Pakistani authorities hunted on Monday for breakaway Taliban militants who once declared loyalty to Islamic State after the group claimed responsibility for an Easter suicide bomb targeting Christians, that killed at least 70 people.

The attack on Sunday evening in a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the powerbase of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, killed mostly women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has a Christian population of more than 2 million.

It was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the December 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military run academy in the city of Peshawar that prompted a big government crackdown on Islamist militancy.

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack late on Sunday night, and issued a direct challenge to the government.

"The target was Christians," said a faction spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said. "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore."

Lahore is the capital of Pakistan`s richest province, Punjab, and is seen as the country`s political and cultural heartland. Sharif`s office condemned the blast as a cowardly act and said a response had been ordered, without elaborating.

Lahore, markets, schools and courts were closed on Monday as the city mourned. Rescue services spokeswoman Deeba Shahnaz said at least 70 people were killed and about 340 were wounded, with 25 in serious condition.

The group has claimed responsibility for several big attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014.

It declared allegiance to the Islamic State but later said it was rejoining the Pakistani Taliban insurgency.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also attacked.

Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under the crackdown launched after the 2014 Peshawar school massacre. Militant violence had eased but they retain the ability to launch devastating attacks.

Pakistan`s security agencies have long been accused of nurturing militants to use for help in pursuing security objectives in Afghanistan and against old rival India.

But some, like the Pakistani Taliban, have turned against the state. They are fighting to topple the government and install a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Sharif`s opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.

Earlier on Sunday, hundreds of hard-line Muslim activists clashed with police in the capital, Islamabad, in a protest over the execution of a man they consider a hero for assassinating a governor over his criticism of harsh blasphemy laws.

Bodyguard Mumtaz Qadri Mumtaz shot dead Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Taseer, a prominent liberal politician, had spoken in support of a Christian woman sentenced to death under the law that mandates capital punishment for insulting Islam or the Prophet Mohammad. Qadri was executed last month.
Srinagar: Separatist groups in Kashmir on Monday condemned the Taliban suicide bombing in Lahore, calling it a "mindless" attack on humanity and urged the international community to take a united stand against it.

"We strongly condemn the terror attack at Gulshan Iqbal Park in Lahore. Terrorism in any form and at any place is condemnable," chairman of moderate Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said here.

He expressed solidarity with the government and the people of Pakistan on the "mindless" terror attack, and said there is no place for such "inhuman practices" in Islam.

"At a time when common masses in most parts of the world were getting killed in the similar mindless acts of terrorism, and the way terrorism is fast becoming the biggest challenge for humanity, the international community needs to take united stand against terrorism and make combined efforts to curb this menace," he said.

Hardline Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani also condemned the attack and asked Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to identify the terrorists behind it and give them exemplary punishment.

"The attack has shamed humanity and those involved in such type of terrorism cannot be termed as humans. Even if they are hanged publicly, that would not be enough," Geelani said.

JKLF chairman Yaseen Malik said the "barbaric" attack in Lahore had tarnished every human heart and mind.

"The perpetrators of this attack cannot be termed as human and part of civilised world. Kashmiris condemn this heinous criminal attack," Malik said.

The activists of JKLF organised a protest rally here against the attack.
Hyderabad: A local court in Hyderabad on Monday granted bail to all 27 accused arrested for allegedly indulging in vandalism at office and residence of Vice-Chancellor P Appa Rao.

The bail was granted on one time surety of Rs 5,000.

Meanwhile, all the 27 accused will be released on Tuesday.

According to PTI report, 25 students and two faculty members were detained on March 22 in connection with incidents of vandalism at VC's lodge and stone pelting on police personnel. Later, they were lodged in Cherlapally Central Prison and were remanded to judicial custody.

Among the students who have been booked were Mudavath Venkatesh Chauhan of the Joint Action Committee for Social Justice and Dontha Prashant, a close friend of Rohith Vemula, who was expelled from the hostel along with Vemula and three others for allegedly assaulting ABVP leader Susheel Kumar.

The two lecturers, who were accused of vandalising Rao's office were Dr Tathagata Sengupta, 31, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics, and Konda Yesu Ratnam, 53, Associate Professor of Political Science.
Lucknow: AIMIM party chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday attacked BJP and Samajwadi Party, terming them as "two sides of the same coin" and alleged while RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has been given liberty to hold meetings here, a ban was "imposed" on him.

The Hyderabad MP said his party considered SP and BJP as its main rival in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

"Our fight is against both SP and BJP. These parties are two sides of the same coin," he said.

On administration in the state capital "imposing" a ban on his rally, Owaisi said "RSS chief Bhagwat has got the freedom, but ban is being imposed on us because in reality, the SP government is afraid of us."

Owaisi was scheduled to visit Lucknow along with Faizabad, Azamgarh and Ambedkarnagar earlier this month.

He was also scheduled to address a rally in Lucknow but was refused permission by the administration citing law and order issues.

After that, Owaisi's entire Uttar Pradesh tour was cancelled.

The AIMIM chief alleged that SP and BJP were solely responsible for Muzaffarnagar riots but those responsible were given a "clean chit" in the inquiry report.

Owaisi, who faced criticism for his remarks on chanting of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'," said he does not need a "certificate of patriotism" from anyone.

He said Muslims have made big sacrifices for the country and their patriotism could not be "questioned" just for the sake of a slogan.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president alleged that SP dispensation in Uttar Pradesh has failed on all fronts and accused it of "deliberately" keeping Muslims backward.

"Muslims are pushed back in the field of education. It promised 18 per cent reservation to Muslims, which has not been fulfilled. The government has made no provision for the welfare of Muslims in its budget. Does Akhilesh want to keep Muslims behind in the field of education?" he said.

Earlier, the AIMIM chief offered prayers at dargaah of Haji Waris Ali Shah here and visited Islamic seminary at Nadwa and met clerics. He also met prominent Shia cleric Kalbe Jawwad.
Dehradun: The Congress moved High Court on Monday against President's Rule in Uttarakhand.

Harish Rawat's petition came up before the single bench of Justice UC Dhyani, who after hearing both sides, said the matter would be taken up again tomorrow.

The petition, filed on Rawat's behalf by his counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, has questioned the Centre's decision bringing the hill state under President's rule.

Singhvi appeared on behalf of Rawat, while Rakesh Thapliyal represented the Union government.

Additional Solictor General Tushar Mehta will argue the case on behalf of the Union government tomorrow.

Singhvi, a senior Congress leader and party spokesman, argued that circumstances were not suitable for invoking article 356 of the constitution and imposing President's rule in the state.

The Centre had brought the state under President's rule citing a Constitutional breakdown in the wake of a rebellion in the ruling Congress.

President Pranab Mukherjee had signed the proclamation under Art 356 of the Constitution dismissing the Congress government headed by Rawat and placing the Assembly under suspended animation yesterday on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet.

The Centre was of the view that continuance of the Rawat government was "immoral and unconstitutional" after March 18 when the Speaker declared the Appropriation Bill "passed" in controversial circumstances without allowing a division pressed for by 35 MLAs, including 9 rebel Congress legislators.

The Union Cabinet had held an emergency meeting here last night presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had cut short a visit to Assam to return to the capital for the purpose.

The Cabinet considered several reports received from Governor, who had described the political situation as volatile, as per PTI.

Meanwhile, Rawat yesterday condemned the imposition of President's rule in the state as a "murder" of democracy and the Constitution and had said that PM Modi's hands were dipped in the "blood" of the "trampled" aspirations of the people.

Alleging that central rule was a result of a "premeditated conspiracy" hatched by the Centre to dislodge a democratically elected Congress government in the state, Rawat had also said the BJP was "thirsty for his blood" right from the day he assumed office on February one, 2014 and did not want his government to stabilise.

On the other hand, Congress had said yesterday that it would challenge the decision in court.

Senior party leader Kapil Sibal had said that President's Rule was imposed a day before the floor test in the Uttarakhand Assembly as the Centre knew that Chief Minister Harish Rawat would be able to prove his majority.

"We will approach the courts. We will file a petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule in the state and demand its revocation," he had told reporters.

"We will explain the law to them in court. We will show the court that the people in the central government are the ones responsible for destabilising every state which is under Congress rule because their policy is to have 'Congress mukt Bharat'. I am shocked that any government which believes in democracy and believes in the Constitution would seek to wipe off the legacy of a party," Sibal had said, alleging that BJP is a "past master in the art of horse-trading".

(With Agency inputs)
Columbia: US President Barack Obama will this week meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean President Park Geun-Hye on the sidelines of a nuclear security summit, with North Korea on the agenda, the White House said Monday.

The trilateral meeting on Thursday in Washington comes the same day that Obama is scheduled to meet one-on-one with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

"This meeting will be an opportunity for the three leaders to discuss common responses to the threat posed by North Korea and to advance areas of trilateral security cooperation in the region and globally," the White House said.

On Thursday and Friday, Obama will welcome top-level delegations from dozens of countries -- including Xi, Park, Abe and other heads of state -- to discuss thorny nuclear safety concerns.

The fear that Islamic State militants could obtain nuclear material is expected to weigh heavily on the summit agenda.

The summit itself will not address issues related to North Korea`s recent weapons tests, but may touch on stopping the provision of nuclear materials to the country which could be used to develop weapons.

In his talks with Park and Abe, Obama is sure to discuss the ramped-up rhetoric coming from North Korea, which carried out a nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch a month later, triggering new international sanctions.

Pyongyang has been pushing to acquire a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) capability which would take its nuclear strike threat to a new level, allowing deployment far beyond the Korean peninsula and the potential to retaliate in the event of a nuclear attack.

It has conducted a number of what it says were successful tests of an SLBM, but experts have questioned the claim, suggesting Pyongyang had gone little further than a "pop-up" test from a submerged platform.

North Korea is also sure to figure in the talks between Obama and Xi. China is Pyongyang`s only ally.

US policymakers have pushed Beijing to put pressure on the country to stop its nuclear provocations, but China is concerned about the stability of its neighbor.
President Barack Obama is not expected to hold sit-down talks with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan when he visits Washington later this week for a nuclear security summit, amid deep divisions between the two NATO nations.

Several heads of state will attend the summit on Thursday and Friday, but Obama is only scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, an official said.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest underlined that both Obama and Vice President Joe Biden have met with Erdogan and Turkish officials repeatedly in recent months.

But the absence of a new face-to-face meeting with Erdogan this week, in the thick of the fight against the Islamic State group, is glaring.

Turkey and the United States are nominally close allies, but tensions have been stirred by Ankara`s attacks on Kurdish militants, who are seen by Washington as the best bet for tackling the Islamic State group in Iraq and northern Syria.

Turkey says the groups are linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers` Party (PKK), which has fought a long battle for Kurdish independence.

The White House has been increasingly outspoken in recent months about threats to free speech and democracy in Turkey.

Earlier this month, the White House called on the Turkish government to respect democratic values, amid allegations of a fresh press crackdown.

"We urge Turkish authorities to ensure their actions uphold the universal democratic values enshrined in Turkey`s constitution, including freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press," Earnest said.

Erdogan`s government has been accused of authoritarianism and muzzling critical media as well as lawmakers, academics, lawyers and non-government groups.

Secretary of State John Kerry did meet his counterpart Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday, and both stressed the strength of US-Turkish ties.

Kerry expressed sympathy for Turkey`s people and leaders after recent bomb attacks and insisted the two capitals are working together closely to combat the Islamic State group.

"Turkey is an important partner with the United States in this effort. It is a NATO ally," he said.

Cavusoglu agreed, saying: "We have the full determination to defeat the terrorist groups in our neighborhood and all over the world."

The signs of tension marks dramatic change since the early days of the Obama administration, when Turkey was seen as a close partner and potential moderate stabilizing force in the Middle East.

The Turkish government has allowed coalition forces to use bases in southern Turkey to hit Islamic State targets.
Brussels: Belgium on Monday freed the sole suspect charged over last week's Islamic State attacks in Brussels due to a lack of evidence, raising fresh questions about the handling of the case by under-fire Belgian authorities.

Prosecutors had charged the man identified as Faycal C on Saturday with offences including "terrorist murder", and had been investigating the theory that he was a third airport attacker who fled when his bomb failed to go off.

His release comes as a new blow to an inquiry already dogged by accusations that Belgium missed a series of leads in cracking down on a jihadist network linked to the attacks and a similar assault in Paris in November.

Police yesterday released CCTV footage of a third suspect in the March 22 Zaventem airport attack, the so-called "man in the hat" seen with two other men who blew themselves up.

Officials also updated the death toll from the bombings at the airport and at Maalbeek metro station to 35, the worst terror attacks in Belgium's history, after four more people had died in hospital.

Mourners were set to hold an Easter Monday church service in memory of the victims.

The Belgian federal prosecutor's office said in a statement that "the indications that led to the arrest of Faycal C were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry. As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate."

A source close to the inquiry told AFP: "Investigators have established that he was not the 'man in the hat'."

Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou who claimed to be a freelance journalist.

With the manhunt still underway, police released video of a man in a hat and white jacket pushing a trolley with a large bag through the departure hall next to suicide bombers Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.

As Belgium struggles to come to terms with the tragedy, recriminations continue over whether the authorities could have prevented it, as the links to the Paris attacks in which 130 people were killed become clearer by the day.

Bomb-maker Laachraoui's DNA was found on some of the explosives used in Paris.

Metro bomber Khalid El Bakraoui, Ibrahim's brother, is meanwhile believed to have rented a property linked to Paris prime suspect Salah Abdeslam, who was arrested in Brussels on March 18 just yards from his family home after four months on the run.

And Turkey accused Belgium last week of ignoring a clear and present danger after revealing it had deported Ibrahim El Bakraoui as a "terrorist fighter" last year after arresting him near the Syrian border.

Two Belgian ministers offered to resign after the Turkish link emerged.
Washington: US Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of US foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliance`s overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.

President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trump`s views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.

In another sharp departure from historic US policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.

The billionaire businessman, vying to win his party`s nomination for the Nov. 8 presidential election, also said he might halt US purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so.

"NATO is obsolete," Trump said on ABC`s This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It was ill-suited to fighting terrorism and cost the United States too much, he added.

"We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but it`s going to be changed," he said.

On March 21, Trump said the United States should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.

Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but Chinese President Xi Jinping will.

Obama said the United States would review international efforts to combat Islamic State in the wake of the Brussels attacks.

Trump`s chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz, called the real estate mogul`s views on NATO "catastrophically foolish." Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump was "out of his depth."

"Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all," Cruz said. "It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS," the militant group also known as Islamic State.

Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to Islamic State would be to "carpet bomb them into oblivion."

In the interview, Trump also said he would be willing to withdraw US troops from Japan and South Korea unless the two countries paid more to house and feed them. Japan hosts about 50,000 US troops, while 28,500 are in South Korea.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo on Monday that there had been no change to Japans policy of not building, possessing or introducing nuclear weapons, and reiterated that no matter who became US president, the US-Japan alliance would remain the core of Japans diplomacy and vital for regional and world stability.
Washington: Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of US foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliance`s overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.

President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trump`s views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.

In another sharp departure from historic US policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.

The billionaire businessman, vying to win his party`s nomination for the November 8 Presidential Election, also said he might halt US purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so.

"NATO is obsolete," Trump said on ABC`s This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It is ill-suited to fighting terrorism and costs the United States too much, he added.

"We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but it`s going to be changed," he said.

On March 21, Trump said the United States should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.

Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but China`s President Xi Jinping will.

Obama said the United States will review international efforts to combat Islamic State militants during the summit in the wake of the Brussels attacks.

Trump`s chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz called the real estate mogul`s views on NATO "catastrophically foolish." Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump is "out of his depth."

"Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all," Cruz said. "It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS," the militant group also known as Islamic State.

Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to Islamic State would be to "carpet bomb them into oblivion."
Amsterdam: Dutch anti-terrorism police on Sunday arrested a 32-year-old man in Rotterdam on suspicion of preparing an attack on France and also detained three other people, national prosecutors said.

"French authorities on Friday requested the arrest of the French citizen, who had been identified in a terrorism investigation," prosecutors said in a statement. He was suspected of "involvement in preparing a terrorist attack".

The arrests were carried out by a specialized anti-terrorism police squad, and the Dutch intelligence agency AIVD and prosecutors also took part in the operation, prosecutors said.

Two of the others detained were described as aged 43 and 47 and "having an Algerian background," while the third had not yet been identified.

Police were searching two addresses in western Rotterdam associated with the suspect, and people living in nearby buildings had been evacuated as a precautionary measure, the prosecutors said.

The suspect will be extradited to France as quickly as possible, they said.

The arrests came with Europe on heightened alert after Tuesday`s suicide bomb attacks at Brussels Airport and on a rush-hour metro train that killed 31 people, including three attackers, and injured hundreds more. Islamic State has claimed responsibility.

Late on Sunday, French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve congratulated intelligence services` work and the cooperation among European countries that he said helped thwart a potential attack in France.

Cazeneuve said their work helped result in a first arrest outside of Paris on Thursday, then another in Brussels on Saturday and a third in the Netherlands.

"Intelligence services work relentlessly to protect our territory in a context of high threat," Cazeneuve said in a statement.
Paris: Belgian investigators are struggling to build a clear picture of the jihadist team that bombed Brussels airport and metro, releasing the only suspect charged over the attacks claimed by the Islamic State group.

As links between cells in several countries emerge, police across Europe have stepped up efforts to unravel extremist networks on the continent.

Just four months after the jihadist carnage that killed 130 people in Paris, investigators in France say they have foiled another major attack there, swooping on two addresses in the capital`s suburbs and seizing an arsenal of weapons.

There are few details about the plot, except that it may also have involved people in Belgium and the Netherlands.Police have released a new video of the third suspect in the March 22 Zaventem airport attack -- the so-called "man in the hat" seen with the two suicide bombers -- who fled after his own bomb did not go off.

A suspect named as Faycal C. was charged with terrorist murder and investigators had thought he was the man in the hat, but he was released Monday after suspicions "were not substantiated".

Najim Laachraoui, one of the two airport suicide bombers, is believed to have made bombs for both Brussels and November`s Paris attacks.

Belgium`s federal prosecutor revealed Friday that Laachraoui`s DNA was found on a suicide vest and a piece of cloth at the Bataclan concert hall in Paris, and on a bomb at the Stade de France stadium.French police said they halted an attack by 34-year-old Reda Kriket after arresting him Thursday and discovering an arsenal of weapons in the Paris suburbs.

In one apartment, police found five Kalashnikov assault rifles, a machine gun, seven handguns and explosives -- including TATP, the improvised explosive favoured by IS jihadists.

French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said a planned attack at "an advanced stage" had been foiled, without giving further details.

Belgian authorities arrested two men Friday on suspicion of involvement with the plot.

Kriket was convicted in absentia in Belgium last year at the trial of a jihadist network linked to Syria in which another of the defendants was Abdelhamid Abaaoud, suspected ringleader of the Paris attacks.

The network was led by Khalid Zerkani, a 41-year-old from Brussels, described by authorities as Belgium`s "largest recruiter of aspiring jihadists".

Among those who went to Syria through the network were Abaaoud and another Paris attacker, Chakib Akrouh.

Zerkani is also thought to have been a mentor to Laachraoui.

The two men held in Brussels, suspected of working with Kriket on plans for a new French attack, have been named as Abderamane A. and Rabah N. They have been charged with "participation in a terrorist group".

Abderamane A., who police shot in the leg after a stand-off at a tram-stop in Brussels` Schaerbeek district, appears to be a jihadist veteran.

He was convicted in Paris in 2005 at the trial of a network accused of providing logistical support to the killers of legendary Afghan resistance fighter Ahmad Shah Massoud, assassinated in 2001.Dutch police found ammunition in the house of a French national arrested Sunday in Rotterdam in connection with the new French plot.

The man, a 32-year-old identified as Anis B., is thought to have previously travelled to Syria.

No explosives were found during the raid in which a total of four men, including two suspects of Algerian background, were arrested.

Anis. B is expected to be handed over to France after an extradition hearing in Amsterdam.An Algerian held in Italy as part of a probe into fake ID documents used by the Paris and Brussels attackers was interrogated Sunday but has refused to answer questions.

The suspect, named as 40-year-old Djamal Eddine Ouali, was detained under a European arrest warrant near the southern city of Salerno on Saturday, and questioned in prison by prosecutors.

Italy`s ANSA news agency reported that the forgery ring created fake papers used by Najim Laachraoui as well as Salah Abdeslam -- prime suspect in the Paris attacks -- and Mohamed Belkaid, who was shot dead by Brussels police on March 15.

Investigators think Laachraoui and Belkaid were in phone contact with several of the Paris attackers on the night of France`s worst ever terror attacks.
Havana: Fidel Castro laid into Barack Obama after the US president's historic visit to Cuba in a testy letter today, saying the communist island doesn't need any "gifts from the empire."

The 89-year-old leader of the Cuban Revolution, who has reacted tepidly to the communist island's rapprochement with the United States, scoffed at what he described as Obama's call to forgive and forget more than half a century of Cold War enmity.

"Listening to the words of the US president could give anyone a heart attack," Castro, who handed power to his younger brother Raul in 2006, wrote in his first published reaction to the visit.

"My modest suggestion is that he think and not try to theorize about Cuban politics."

Obama, who met Raul but not Fidel Castro during his three-day visit last week, defied the regime's warnings not to wade into Cuba's internal affairs by meeting with anti-Castro dissidents and calling for democracy and greater freedoms.

"Voters should be able to choose their governments in free and democratic elections," he said in a speech carried live on Cuba's tightly controlled state television.

Castro lashed out at that speech, the symbolically charged centerpiece of the first visit by a US president in 88 years.

"Obama gave a speech in which he used the most syrupy words," he wrote, recounting the long history of acrimonious relations between Havana and Washington.

"Nobody has any illusion that the people of this noble and selfless country will surrender glory and rights and the spiritual wealth that has come through the development of education, science and culture," said the retired revolutionary, who led Cuba for 47 years.

"I would also warn that we are capable of producing the food and material wealth we need with the labor and the intelligence of our people. We don't need any gifts from the empire."

Castro remained out of sight during Obama's visit, which aimed to cement the ongoing normalization of US-Cuban ties, first announced in December 2014.
Yonaguni: Japan on Monday switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of islands disputed by Japan and China, drawing an angry response from Beijing.

The new Self Defence Force base on the island of Yonaguni is at the western extreme of a string of Japanese islands in the East China Sea, 150 km (90 miles) south of the disputed islands known as the Senkaku islands in Japan and the Diaoyu in China.

China has raised concerns with its neighbours and in the West with its assertive claim to most of the South China Sea where the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims. Japan has long been mired in a territorial dispute with China over the East China Sea islands.

"Until yesterday, there was no coastal observation unit west of the main Okinawa island. It was a vacuum we needed to fill," said Daigo Shiomitsu, a Ground Self Defence Force lieutenant colonel who commands the new base on Yonaguni.

"It means we can keep watch on territory surrounding Japan and respond to all situations."

Shiomitsu on Monday attended a ceremony at the base with 160 military personnel and around 50 dignitaries. Construction of some buildings, which feature white walls and traditional Okinawan red-tiled roofs, is still unfinished.

The 30-sq-km (11-sq-mile) island is home to 1,500 people, who mostly raise cattle and grow sugar cane. The Self Defence Force contingent and family members will increase the population by a fifth.

"This radar station is going to irritate China," said Nozomu Yoshitomi, a professor at Nihon University and a retired major general in the Self Defence Force.

In addition to being a listening post, the facility could be used a base for military operations in the region, he added.

China`s defence ministry, in a statement sent to Reuters about the radar station, said the international community needed to be on high alert to Japan`s military expansion.

"The Diaoyu Islands are China`s inherent territory. We are resolutely opposed to any provocative behaviour by Japan aimed at Chinese territory," it said.

"The activities of Chinese ships and aircraft in the relevant waters and airspace are completely appropriate and legal."

The listening post fits into a wider military build-up along the island chain, which stretches 1,400 km (870 miles) from the Japanese mainland.

Policy makers last year told Reuters it was part of a strategy to keep China at bay in the Western Pacific as Beijing gains control of the South China Sea.

Toshi Yoshihara, a U.S. Naval War College professor, said Yonaguni sits next to two potential flashpoints in Asia - Taiwan and the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands.

"A network of overlapping radar sites along the island chain would boost Japan`s ability to monitor the East China Sea," he added.

Yonaguni is only around 100 km (62 miles) east of Taiwan, near the edge of a controversial air defence identification zone set up by China in 2013.

Over the next five years, Japan will increase its Self Defence Force in the East China Sea by about a fifth to almost 10,000 personnel, including missile batteries that will help Japan draw a defensive curtain along the island chain.

Chinese ships sailing from their eastern seaboard must pass through this barrier to reach the Western Pacific, access to which Beijing needs both as a supply line to the rest of the world`s oceans and for naval power projection.
Jim Harrison, the American novelist and poet who explored the natural world in such works as "Legends of the Fall," has died, his publisher confirmed Sunday. He was 78.

Harrison, who US media said passed away at his home in Patagonia, Arizona, relished a reputation as a rugged outsider far removed from the East Coast literary scene.

He produced 21 volumes of fiction and 14 books of poetry as well as essays and a children`s book.

A heavy drinker, smoker and self-described manic depressive, Harrison`s fictions were extensions of his love of wild places, and his passions as a hunter, fisherman and cook.

"America lost one of its greatest writers and we at Grove lost a family member," his publisher, Grove Atlantic, tweeted Sunday, adding that "his work lives on."

Harrison had just published another novella, "The Ancient Minstrel," and a book of poetry, "Dead Man`s Float," earlier this year.

Born in Grayling, Michigan, he had a difficult rural upbringing, blinded in one eye as a child and losing his father and sister in an automobile accident when he was 21.

He was often described as a "macho" writer in the vein of Ernest Hemingway, but Harrison said it was his subject matter that prompted the comparison."All I have to say about that macho thing goes back to the idea that my characters aren`t from the urban dream-coasts," he said in a 1986 interview with the Paris Review.

"But you know what it`s like here and up in the Upper Peninsula. This is where I grew up. How is it macho that I like to hunt and fish? I`ve been doing it since I was four," he said.

He considered himself primarily a poet, but gained fame as a novelist and often earned a living as a Hollywood screenwriter.

His first novel "Wolf: A False Memoir," (1971) tells a man`s angry life story as he tracks a wolf in the Michigan wilderness.

He said he wrote it while convalescing from a fall off a cliff while bird hunting.

The 1979 "Legends of the Fall" comprised three novellas, Harrison`s preferred fictional form. The title story is an epic that takes place in the Rocky Mountains, and became a film starring Brad Pitt.

"Dalva," (1988) one of his best known novels, tells the story of a woman`s search for the son she gave up for adoption.

Much of it is written in the woman`s voice, something Harrison said took three years of hard work to achieve.

"Why that`s been brutally hard is that you don`t get to use any of your easy accumulation of male resonances," he told the Paris Review.

"I don`t know if she`s going to talk to me today or not. It`s been sort of spooky," he said.

His work has been showered with critical acclaim and honors, including grants from the National Academy of Arts, a Guggenheim fellowship and election to the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Kuwait City: Kuwait is to deport 60 Lebanese for alleged links to Hezbollah in the latest Gulf Arab move against the Shiite militant group, a newspaper reported on Monday.

Those to be deported all had permanent residency which has been revoked, Al-Qabas daily said.

Those classified as "dangerous cases" were given just two days to leave the country, it added.

It is the second wave of deportations from Kuwait reported since Gulf Arab states blacklisted Hezbollah as a "terrorist" group earlier this month.

Last week, Al-Qabas reported that 11 Lebanese and three Iraqis had been deported for alleged links to the group.

Around 50,000 Lebanese live and work in the oil-rich emirate, providing remittances that are vital to the domestic economy.

The terror blacklisting was the latest step taken by Gulf states, led by Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia, against Hezbollah, the leading force in Lebanon`s governing bloc which is backed by Riyadh`s Shiite rival Tehran.

Last month, Saudi Arabia halted a $3 billion programme of military aid to Lebanon to protest what it said was "the stranglehold of Hezbollah on the state".

It also urged its citizens to leave Lebanon and avoid travelling there.

Qatar and Kuwait followed with similar travel advisories, while the United Arab Emirates banned its nationals from travel to Lebanon.

Hezbollah is fighting in support of the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad against Gulf-backed rebel fighters and extremist militants.

Other Gulf states have also taken measures against alleged Hezbollah supporters since the terror blacklisting.

Bahrain said it had deported several Lebanese residents for alleged links to the group.

Saudi security forces arrested a Shiite preacher accused of glorifying the group, the kingdom`s Al-Watan newspaper reported last week.

And the United Arab Emirates has reportedly put seven people on trial for allegedly forming a cell linked to Hezbollah.
Lahore: The death toll in the horrific Taliban suicide bombing at a popular public park where Christians were celebrating Easter in this eastern Pakistani city rose to 72 today.

A large number of people including Christians were present in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Iqbal Town area here when the blast occurred yesterday, leaving many in a pool of blood.

"The toll has risen to 72. The rescue operation is continuing," a rescue official of the Punjab Province government told Express News.

The park is located in a posh-locality in Lahore, the hometown of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The city is comparatively peaceful in an otherwise violence-wracked Pakistan.

Those killed included women and children. Over 300 people were also injured in the attack and many of them were in a critical condition.

The brutal attack by a suicide bomber -- believed to be in his 20s -- was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Several leaders, including Prime Minister Sharif and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chief Imran Khan, have condemned the blast. Christians leaders also strongly condemned the attack.

Meanwhile, all schools under the All Pakistan Private Schools Federation were closed today.

Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced three-day mourning after the suicide attack.

Army has joined rescue efforts. An emergency has been declared in city hospitals and appeals have been made to people to donate blood.

Eyewitnesses said body parts were scattered all around the park. They said there was no security around the park.

The crowd was "unusually large" because of Easter.

Following the blast, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif chaired a high-level meeting in Rawalpindi.

According to the ISPR, the army chief directed the authorities concerned to find the perpetrators of the Lahore blast at the earliest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday called up his Pakistani counterpart Sharif and offered his "deep condolences" to the victims of the Lahore terror attack.
Mexico City: A man suspected of laundering money for jailed drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was detained in southwestern Mexico, and faces extradition to the United States, Mexican authorities said on Sunday.

Juan Manuel Alvarez, who was arrested in Oaxaca state, has ties to an international money-laundering network that spans Mexico, Colombia, Panama and the United States, Mexican police said via their official Twitter account.

A separate statement from Mexico`s National Security Commision, which coordinates security forces, said Alvarez is sought over money laundering allegations in the United States.

Describing him as the "principal financial operator" for an undisclosed drug trafficking group, the statement said he headed another criminal organization that operates mainly in the western Mexican state of Jalisco.

That state is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (JNG), whose gunmen shot down an army helicopter in the state last May, claiming the lives of six military personnel. The JNG have historic ties to Guzman`s Sinaloa Cartel.

Guzman, who escaped twice from Mexican maximum-security prisons, was recaptured in Mexico in January and is seeking to speed up his extradition to the United States in the hope he will be treated better in prison there.

As head of the Sinaloa cartel, Guzman is accused of leading a bloody war against rival gangs and smuggling vast quantities of illegal drugs into the United States.
United Nations: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon regrets a "misunderstanding" over his use of the word "occupation" to describe Morocco`s annexation of Western Sahara, which led to Morocco expelling dozens of United Nations staff, his spokesman said on Monday.

Earlier this month Ban used the word "occupation" to describe Morocco`s annexation of Western Sahara in 1975, when it took over the arid territory along the Atlantic Ocean from colonial power Spain.

"His use of the word was not planned, nor was it deliberate, it was a spontaneous, personal reaction. We regret the misunderstandings and consequences that this personal expression of solicitude provoked," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

The controversy over Ban`s comments is Morocco`s worst dispute with the United Nations since 1991, when the U.N. brokered a ceasefire to end a war over Western Sahara and established a peacekeeping mission, known as MINURSO.

Ban said the word during a visit to refugee camps in southern Algeria for the Sahrawi people, who contend Western Sahara belongs to them.

Morocco then ordered the United Nations to pull out dozens of civilian staffers and close a military liaison office for the MINURSO peacekeeping mission. It said its decision was irreversible, but that the government was committed to military cooperation to guarantee a ceasefire.

"Nothing (Ban) said or did in the course of that trip was meant to offend or express hostility toward the Kingdom of Morocco, which is a valued member of the United Nations," Dujarric said.

Rabat has accused Ban of dropping the United Nations` neutral stance on the Western Sahara dispute.

"The position of the United Nations has not changed," Dujarric said. "He has not and will not take sides on the issue of Western Sahara."

U.N. officials had repeatedly urged the U.N. Security Council to publicly voice its support for Ban and MINURSO, which the 15-nation body did late last Thursday in New York.

However, the council did not explicitly order Morocco to reverse its decisions or address Ban`s use of the word "occupation." Some U.N. diplomats had blamed the council`s days of silence on Morocco`s ally France, along with Spain, Egypt and Senegal.

The U.N. MINURSO mission, which consists of military and civilian staff, monitors the Western Sahara ceasefire and is charged with organising a referendum over the region`s future. But deadlock has delayed the vote for years.
Lesbos: The United States will provide an additional $20 million (18 million euros) in aid for refugees in Europe, a senior US official said Monday.

Heather Higginbottom, US deputy secretary of state for management and resources, said this brings Washington`s total commitment to Europe`s migration crisis to $43.6 million since last year.

Most of the funds -- $17.5 million -- will be given to the UN refugee agency, Higginbottom said during a visit to Lesbos, the island that has experienced most of the refugee arrivals registered in Greece since 2015, where there are over 2000 refugees and migrants according to the Greek government.

The rest of the funds will be shared out between the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the UN population fund, she said.

Dozens of migrants awaiting repatriation from Greece held a protest on Monday at the registration hotspot of Moria prior to the US official`s visit.

Standing behind wire fencing and under sizeable police guard, the migrants shouted "Freedom" and "Where are human rights?".

"Syrians and Iraqis are angry, they are saying that they did not come all this way to be deported," said Nolan Hussein, a 20-year-old from Pakistan.

"They have no information, only a piece of paper saying they are under detention," said Hussein, adding that owing to overcrowding at the camp, he shares a room with nine people.

Higginbottom was also in Greece for a closer look at the implementation of a March 18 deal between the European Union and Turkey to limit migration flows to the continent.

Arrivals fell this week, and Greek authorities have used the relative calm to put in place logistics to send people back to Turkey, including the deployment of 4,000 security personnel and asylum experts.

All new arrivals in Greece are being taken to registration centres set up on five Aegean islands. Those seeking asylum will stay there while their applications are considered by Greek and European officials.

Greece`s police minister Nikos Toskas denied Monday that there were 50,000 people "trapped" in the country due to the closure of Balkan borders further north.

"Relocation...procedures might have been delayed but I believe they will begin soon and therefore I do not believe they are trapped (here)," Toskas told Real FM radio.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Joe Biden on Thursday ramped up White House efforts to get a Senate confirmation hearing for Supreme Court selection Merrick Garland, as the U.S. vice president offered the most vigorous defense yet of his 1992 comments that senators should not consider a nominee in a presidential election year. Senate Republicans have used Biden's 1992 comments as ammunition for their opposition to holding hearings on any Supreme Court nominee until Obama's successor takes office next January after the Nov. 8 presidential election. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reiterated that position after Obama on March 16 selected Garland, an appellate judge and former prosecutor, to replace Justice Antonin Scalia, who died on Feb. 13. Biden spoke at Georgetown University law school, seeking to increase pressure on Republicans to allow confirmation hearings and a vote. Biden emphasized Garland's moderate record and that Republicans previously had suggested Garland would be a consensus Supreme Court candidate. In June 1992, when the possibility existed of a retirement on the nine-member court, then-Senator Biden declared on the Senate floor that if a vacancy occurred that election year, Republican President George H.W. Bush should not put forth a nominee until after the November presidential election. If Bush did so, Biden added, "the Senate Judiciary Committee should seriously consider not scheduling confirmation hearings on the nomination until after the political campaign season is over." Biden, then chairman of that committee, was speaking hypothetically and no vacancy materialized. He said on Thursday his words 24 years ago had been selectively quoted by Republicans. He noted that he made them a year after the contentious 1991 confirmation of Justice Clarence Thomas and that they were intended to address "the dangers of nominating an extreme candidate without proper Senate consultation." Biden scoffed at Republicans' current reference to a "Biden rule," meaning no hearing in a presidential election year. He said no such rule exists. Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley, the current Judiciary Committee chairman, accused Biden of trying to "rewrite history" on the 1992 remarks. "While the vice president and others have tried to recast his 1992 speech as merely a call for greater cooperation," Grassley said, "they neglect to mention that such cooperation, according to Chairmen Biden, was to occur 'in the next administration,' and only after the presidential election." In a Quinnipiac University poll of 1,451 registered voters released on Thursday, 62 percent said the Senate should consider Garland's nomination rather waiting for a new president; 33 percent said senators should wait. (Reporting by David Morgan and Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham)
ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - A faction of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for killing at least 70 people in an Easter Sunday attack on a park in the eastern city of Lahore, the latest in a series of brutal attacks by the group. The suicide attack on Sunday targeted Christians and others celebrating Easter and was the second attack by the Jamaat-ur-Ahrar on Christians in the city since last year. Sunday's bombing further illustrated an apparent shift in strategy by Pakistani militants since the start of last year. Many major attacks since then have specifically targeted religious minorities, including non-Muslims and minority Muslim sects. Pakistani authorities have expressed fears that the entrance of the Middle East-based Islamic State ideology - which places greater emphasis on killing Christians and minority Shi'ite Muslims - could intensify sectarian violence in Pakistan. Sunni Muslims are the vast majority in Pakistan's population of 190 million, while Shi'ite Muslims account for about 20 percent, Christians about 2 percent and Hindus and the Ahmadi Muslim sect a combined 1 percent. The following list outlines a recent uptick in Jamaat-ur-Ahrar attacks. MAJOR ATTACKS CLAIMED BY JAMAAT-UR-AHRAR FACTION SINCE 2015 - Jan 9, 2015: Eight people killed after a bomb rips through a Shi'ite mosque in northern city of Rawalpindi. - Mar 15, 2015: Twin church bombings in Lahore kill 14 Christian worshippers, triggering riots. - Dec 29, 2015: 23 killed in attack on a government office in the northwestern town of Mardan, about 100 km (60 miles) northwest of the capital Islamabad. - Feb 18, 2016: Nine paramilitary personnel killed in two separate attacks on checkposts in the Mohmand tribal area, where Jamaat-ur-Ahrar is based, about 160 km (100 miles) from Islamabad. - March 1, 2016: Two Pakistani U.S. consulate employees killed in roadside bombing targeting vehicle convoy in Mohmand Agency. - March 7, 2016: Suicide bomber attacks court complex in Shabqadar, about 145 km (90 miles) northwest of Islamabad, killing 10 people. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar says attack is "revenge" for the execution a week earlier of Mumtaz Qadri, the man who killed a provincial governor over perceived blasphemy in 2011. - March 27, 2016: Suicide bomber attacks public park in eastern city of Lahore, killing at least 70 people. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar says attack targeted Christians celebrating Easter. (Reporting by Asad Hashim; Editing by Nick Macfie)
A man suspected of being the top money launderer for the jailed drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman has been captured by Mexican security forces, according to the authorities.

Juan Manuel Alvarez Inzunza, nicknamed "King Midas", was arrested by elite troops while on holiday in the southern state of Oaxaca.

Investigators claim the 34-year-old operated a network of companies and currency exchange centres through which up to $400m (282m) passed each year for Guzman's Sinaloa cartel - a total of more than $4bn (2.8bn) in a decade.

The police said in a statement: "Groups of elite federal police and the Mexican Army arrested Juan Manuel Alvarez Inzunza, nicknamed 'El Rey Midas' ('King Midas') in Oaxaca."

Alvarez Inzunza, whose alleged money laundering operation stretched into Colombia, Panama and the US, is now facing extradition to America.

The Sinaloa cartel is considered one of Mexico's most powerful drug gangs and was led by Guzman, who was captured in January after escaping through a hole in his jail cell's shower in July.

Guzman had escaped twice from maximum-security prisons.
A suicide bomber linked to the Taliban has killed at least 70 people and wounded more than 300 others outside a park in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore.

The explosion took place in the parking area of Gulshan Iqbal Park, just a few feet away from some children's swings.

The area was crowded at the time because Christians were gathering to celebrate the Easter holiday.

The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar said it carried out the attack, adding that it was targeting Pakistan's Christian minority.

Prime Minister David Cameron has promised British help for Pakistan after the bombing, while Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said British nationals were advised to avoid the area and monitor local travel advice and local media.

Many families were leaving the park when the blast happened.

Muhammad Usman, an administration official in Lahore, said more than 50 children were among the injured.

Eyewitnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the car park in the wake of the attack.

Television footage shows children and women crying as rescue officials, police and bystanders carry the injured to ambulances.

Javed Ali, a 35-year-old resident who lives opposite the park, said the force of the blast shattered his home's windows.

"Everything was shaking - there were cries and dust everywhere," he said.

"After 10 minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances."

Superintendent Mustansar Feroz said most of the dead are women and children.

Lahore is the capital of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's political heartland of Punjab, the biggest and wealthiest province in Pakistan.

The country is currently battling a Taliban insurgency, criminal gangs and sectarian violence.

In 2014, Pakistan launched an offensive against Taliban and affiliated jihadist fighters in North Waziristan, seeking to deprive them of safe havens from which to attack both Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Sunday's blast came as the army was also deployed on the streets of Islamabad after thousands of protesters clashed with police in chaotic scenes, throwing stones and setting a container on fire.

The demonstrators were supporters of Islamist assassin Mumtaz Qadri, who was hanged on 29 February for killing a Punjab governor over his call for blasphemy reform.
By Jack Kim SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korea successfully tested a solid-fuel engine that boosted the power of its ballistic rockets, state media reported on Thursday, as South Korea's president ordered the military to be ready to respond to the North's "reckless provocation." Pyongyang's claim indicates it is continuing to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at a rapid pace in defiance of U.N. sanctions, and amid assessment by the South's officials that it could conduct a new nuclear test at any time. The isolated state has in recent weeks stepped up bellicose rhetoric, threatening pre-emptive nuclear strikes against Washington and Seoul, as well as making claims of advancement in its weapons technology. The Rodong Sinmum, North Korea's ruling party newspaper, carried photos of leader Kim Jong Un on site as a rocket engine laid horizontally on the ground emitted a fiery blast. A two-page report detailed the testing of the engine's structure and thrust. "He noted with great pleasure that the successful test ... helped boost the power of ballistic rockets capable of mercilessly striking hostile forces," KCNA news agency said. North Korea said last week it had conducted a successful simulated test of atmospheric re-entry of a ballistic missile, and would soon test ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. On Wednesday, North Korea repeated a threat to attack the South's presidential office, saying its large-calibre multiple rocket launch systems are on alert to strike the Blue House and its special operations unit is ready to go into action. South Korean President Park Geun-hye office said she had ordered a heightened state of alert and put the military on standby to "respond actively to reckless provocations by the North." U.S. State Department spokesman Mark Toner repeated a call on North Korea to "refrain from any actions and any rhetoric that raise tensions in the region and comply with its international obligations and commitments." The current tension on the peninsula follows tough new U.N. sanctions against the North over its nuclear and missile programs and coincides with annual military drills by the South Korea and the United States. The North calls the exercises "nuclear war moves" and has threatened to respond with an all-out offensive. It has conducted a series of rocket launches in recent days. SOLID FUEL ROCKET ENGINE Pyongyang has previously launched long-range rockets that used liquid fuel but it was seen to lack the capability to build solid-fuel long-range or intercontinental missiles. Solid-fuel rockets have advantages in military use, although liquid fuel rockets are considered more sophisticated as their thrust can be controlled in flight. The North has deployed short and medium-range missiles and test fired them, but never flight-tested the KN-08 ICBM it is believed to be developing. Despite its boasts to be making progress, many experts believe the North is a decade or more away from building an ICBM capable of threatening the United States. Michael Elleman, a U.S.-based expert on solid rocket fuel with the International Institute for Strategic Studies think tank, said the engine North Korea tested appeared to have been for the upper stage of a larger rocket or missile. He told a Washington seminar hosted by the Washington-based North Korean monitoring project 38 North that Pyongyang was at least 15 years away from being able to produce solid-fuel motor large enough to able power an ICBM. He said it was unlikely North Korea was producing rocket engines itself and was probably instead relying on a stockpile from the Soviet era. Elleman said he found it "shocking" that Kim Jong Un was photographed standing a few yards away from the rocket motor, apparently just before the test. (http://www.rodong.rep.kp/en/) He said there was a risk of an inadvertent explosion from "one, maybe one-and-a-half, possibly even two tonnes of propellant." "Solid rocket propellant is essentially an explosive that burns at slower rate," he said. "They were putting Kim Jong Un at risk by having him near such a volatile system." North Korea's stepped-up rhetoric and weapons claims come ahead of its planned congress of the ruling Workers' Party, the first in more than 35 years. Some Pyongyang-watchers say the North may look to claim a splashy achievement, such as a fifth nuclear test, in the run-up to the congress as young leader Kim Jong Un looks to bolster his domestic legitimacy. North Korea is ready to conduct a fifth nuclear test "now, immediately," South Korea's unification ministry said on Monday. (Additional reporting by Ju-min Park and James Pearson in Seoul, and David Brunnstrom in Washington; editing by James Dalgleish and Cynthia Osterman)
By Mehreen Zahra-Malik and Mubasher Bukhari LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan has decided to launch a paramilitary crackdown on Islamist militants in Punjab, the country's richest and most populous province, after an Easter Day bombing killed 70 people in the provincial capital Lahore, officials said on Monday. Sunday's suicide bombing at a public park was claimed by the Pakistani Taliban's Jamaat-ur-Ahrar faction, which once declared loyalty to Islamic State. The group said it was targeting Christians. The brutality of the attack, Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's fifth bombing since December, reflects the movement's attempts to raise its profile among Pakistan's increasingly fractured Islamist militants. At least 29 children enjoying an Easter weekend outing were among those killed when the suicide bomber struck in a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the power base of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has a Christian population of more than two million. Pope Francis condemned the attack as "hideous" and demanded that Pakistani authorities protect religious minorities. It was Pakistan's deadliest attack since the December 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military-run academy in the city of Peshawar that prompted a government crackdown on Islamist militancy. Security and government officials told Reuters the decision had been made to launch a full-scale operation involving the paramilitary Rangers, who would have powers to conduct raids and interrogate suspects in the same way as they have been doing in the southern city of Karachi for more than two years. The move, which has not yet been formally announced, represents the civilian government once again granting special powers to the military to fight Islamist militants. "The technicalities are yet to be worked out. There are some legal issues also with bringing in Rangers, but the military and government are on the same page," said one senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to share details of the plan. One other military official and two government officials confirmed the decision on condition of anonymity. "The PM ordered a joint operation of the counter-terrorism department and Rangers in the border areas of Punjab against terrorists and their facilitators," said one government official who attended a meeting with Sharif and Punjab officials on Monday. The move is likely to be controversial in Punjab. In Karachi, the Rangers' crackdown has drawn accusations of human rights abuses and the targeting of opposition politicians, though the rate of militant and criminal violence has dropped sharply since the paramilitary force arrived. Sharif's own party has long opposed any militarized operation against militants in its Punjab heartland. "FAILURE IS THEIR FATE" Military spokesman Gen. Asim Bajwa said intelligence agencies, the army and Rangers had already launched several raids around Punjab following the attack, arresting an unspecified number of suspects and recovering arms caches. Sharif visited the wounded in hospitals and described the attackers as a "coward enemy trying for soft targets". "Terrorists should know that failure is their fate," he said in a television address to the nation, vowing to crush them. Claiming responsibility on Sunday for the attack on behalf of Jamaat-ur-Ahrar, spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan issued a direct challenge to the government: "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore." Rescue services spokeswoman Deeba Shahnaz said at least 29 children, seven women and 34 men had been killed and about 340 people wounded, with 25 in serious condition. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar has claimed responsibility for several big attacks since it split from the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. [L3N17026B] While it mostly focuses attacks in its base of the northwestern Mohmand tribal area, it has previously carried out at least two major attacks in Lahore: one in 2015 that targeted two Christian churches and another at the Wagah border between India and Pakistan in late 2014. Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence since it joined a U.S.-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States. While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also been attacked. Security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under an earlier crackdown launched after the 2014 Peshawar school massacre. Militant violence eased, but groups retain the ability to launch devastating attacks. Most militants, like the Pakistani Taliban, want to topple the government and introduce a strict version of Islamic law. (Additional reporting by Asad Hashim.; Writing by Asad Hashim and Kay Johnson.; Editing by Nick Macfie and Gareth Jones)
By Mubasher Bukhari and Mehreen Zahra-Malik LAHORE/ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (Reuters) - A suicide bomber killed at least 65 people, mostly women and children, at a park in Lahore on Sunday in an attack claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction which said it had targeted Christians. More than 300 other people were wounded, officials said. The explosion occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park close to children's swings. The park is a popular site for members of Lahore's Christian community, many of whom had gone there to celebrate the Easter weekend holiday. Witnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled after the blast. "When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air," said Hasan Imran, 30, a resident who had gone to Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for a walk. Officials said 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. Police Superintendant Mustansar Feroz said most of the casualities were women and children. The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack. "The target was Christians," a spokesman for the faction, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said. "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore." "He can do what he wants but he won't be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks." Islamist militants in Pakistan have attacked Christians and other religious minorities often over the past decade. Many Christians accuse the government of doing little to protect them, saying politicians are quick to offer condolences after an attack but slow to take any concrete steps to improve security. TOLL MAY CLIMB Salman Rafique, a health adviser for the Punjab provincial government, said many of the wounded were undergoing emergency surgery in hospitals. "We fear that the death toll may climb considerably," he said. TV footage showed children and women standing in pools of blood outside the park, crying and screaming as rescue workers, officials, police and bystanders carrying injured people to ambulances and private cars. Dozens of women and children were wheeled into hospitals, covered in blood. Many of the injured were transported to hospitals on taxis and auto-rickshaws due to a shortage of ambulances. Hundreds of citizens arrived outside hospitals to donate blood. Local television channels reported that many of the dead bodies were being kept in hospital wards as morgues were overcrowded. "We were just here to have a nice evening and enjoy the weather," Nasreen Bibi said at the Services Hospital, crying as she waited for doctors to update her on the condition of her two-year-old injured daughter. "May God shower his wrath upon these attackers. What kind of people target little children in a park?" Soon after the attack, the Punjab government ordered all public parks to be closed and announced three days of mourning in the province. The main shopping areas were shut down and many of the city's main roads were deserted. The army was called in to control crowds outside the park. Some distraught, sobbing relatives clashed with police and rescue officials. The Vatican condemned the attack and said Pope Francis was praying for all Pakistanis, including the Christian minority. "The horrible massacre of dozens of innocent people in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, casts a shadow of sadness and anguish on the feast of Easter," it said. In the United States, a strategic ally of Pakistan, White House National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said in a statement: "The United States stands with the people and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour. We will continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region ... to root out the scourge of terrorism." Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation of 190 million people, is plagued by a Taliban insurgency, criminal gangs and sectarian violence. Punjab is its biggest and wealthiest province but has traditionally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan. Sharif's opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies. (Writing by Mehreen Zahra-Malik; Editing by Angus MacSwan and Gareth Jones)
Syria's president has hailed his forces' recapture of the famed ancient city of Palmyra from Islamic State.

Bashar al Assad said it was an "important achievement" and showed his army and his allies' success in combating terrorism, while the military claimed IS was beginning to retreat and collapse.

Government troops and militiamen, backed by Russian airstrikes, have seized back full control of Palmyra which fell to IS in 2015.

It marks the biggest reversal for the extremist group since Moscow's intervention last September in the five-year conflict.

Mr Assad was quoted as saying: "The liberation of the historic city of Palmyra today is an important achievement and another indication of the success of the strategy pursued by the Syrian army and its allies in the war against terrorism."

Russian leader Vladimir Putin congratulated him on the phone.

Earlier, a military source said: "After heavy fighting during the night, the army is in full control of Palmyra - both the ancient site and the residential neighbourhoods."

He added: "Army sappers are in the process of defusing dozens of bombs and mines planted inside the ancient site."

State media and an opposition monitoring group also said Syrian forces had retaken the city, which is known as the "bride of the desert" .

It is home to Roman-era ruins and used to attract tens of thousands of tourists every year.

After taking Palmyra over last May, IS demolished some of the best-known monuments at the UNESCO world heritage site.

It blew up two of the site's treasured classical temples, its triumphal arch and a dozen tower tombs.

IS used Palmyra's ancient amphitheatre as a venue for public executions, including the beheading of the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said there was still gunfire in the eastern part of the city on Sunday morning.

But a large part of the IS force had pulled out and retreated east to the towns of Sukhnah, Raqqa and Deir Ezzor, leaving Palmyra under government control.

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It also said the extremists had suffered around 400 deaths.

"That's the heaviest losses that IS has sustained in a single battle since its creation" in 2013, Observatory director Rami Abdel Rahman said.

He added: "It is a symbolic defeat for IS comparable with that in Kobane," a town on the Turkish border where Kurdish fighters held out against a months-long siege by IS in 2014-15.

Government forces have been on the offensive for nearly three weeks to try to reclaim the city.

The recapture is a strategic as well as symbolic victory for Mr Assad, as analysts say it provides control of the surrounding desert extending all the way to the Iraqi border.

Russian forces have been heavily involved in the offensive to retake Palmyra.

Their jets carried out more than 40 combat sorties in just 24 hours from Friday to Saturday, targeting "158 terrorist" positions, according to the Russian defence ministry.
By Siva Govindasamy SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Indonesia is about to roll out its first passenger plane, one of several smaller, homegrown aircraft being studied in Asia, designed especially for short hops across the region's emerging markets, where air travel is booming. State-owned aerospace firm PT Dirgantara Indonesia's 19-seat N219, which cost $400 million and took just over five years to make, is scheduled to make its first flight in June and start deliveries in 2018. South Korea is mulling a 100-seat aircraft, and India has considered a 70-90 seater. Novices in a highly competitive industry, these largely state-owned manufacturers are betting on growing passenger numbers and an increase in short flights operated by small, efficient craft. The planned craft would be smaller than the Airbus 320 or Boeing 737, which seat between about 150 and 190 passengers. Instead, they aim to be cost-effective, nimble alternatives to planes produced by Brazil's Embraer , Canada's Bombardier , and European firm ATR, a joint venture between Airbus and Finmeccanica . Many of these could suit some markets in Asia, South America and Africa, executives say, where demand for air travel is growing but infrastructure development often lags demand. Runways at many smaller airports are not always long enough to accommodate larger planes like the A320 and 737. But while countries see the launch of a commercial aircraft as an important economic milestone, designing an airplane from scratch is also an expensive gamble. Both China and Japan have struggled to create jets that sell. TEST CASE Asian markets are a testbed for smaller aircraft. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents airlines, expects Indonesia will be one of the five fastest growing markets over the next 20 years. But the country also has many low-density cities where poor airport infrastructure has been a drag on strong demand for air travel. Other emerging markets face a similar challenge, Ade Yuyu Wahyuna, vice-president of business development and marketing at PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), told Reuters. Powered by two turboprop engines from Pratt & Whitney, a unit of United Technologies, Indonesia's N219 is similar to the Airbus CASA CN212 that PTDI manufactured under licence in the 2000s. PTDI says it has 150 commitments from small Indonesian regional carriers. It is just the start of the companys aerospace ambitions, said Wayhuna. PTDI is also studying a 50-passenger plane. For its part, Korea Aerospace Industries, which develops and license-produces fighter jets and helicopters, has been studying a 100-seat passenger aircraft for more than a year, said an industry executive familiar with KAI's plans. KAI would prefer to work with established Western aerospace firms if it goes ahead, this person added. "We will initially start with mid-sized passenger aircrafts or business jets, instead of taking on Boeing directly with large-sized jets," said a KAI spokesman, who added these remain mid to-long term plans. Indian state-owned aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) and research agency National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) have both studied separate projects for a 70-90 seat aircraft. HAL and NAL declined to comment. Industry executives said both are waiting for the Indian government to clarify its aerospace policy, especially on the taxation of aircraft and aircraft parts and the opening of smaller airports in secondary cities. LEARNING FROM CHINA China and Japan's experience with homegrown craft, however, underlines the costly challenge ahead. The MA60 turboprop, Chinas first passenger aircraft - developed by state-owned Aviation Industry Corp of China (AVIC) and delivered from 2000 - has been involved in 11 major incidents. This includes four in which the plane was completely written off and one that resulted in 25 deaths. In August 2013, the New Zealand government warned tourists not to fly on a Tongan airline's MA60, citing the incidents. Another Chinese plane, Commercial Aircraft Corp of China's long-delayed ARJ-21 regional jet, has not received U.S. certification after seven years of testing. In Japan, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' MRJ regional jet has also struggled. The jet's first flight in November 2015 was more than three years behind schedule. Its first deliveries have been delayed by more than four years to mid-2018. Embraer has since unveiled an upgraded version of its regional jets, giving it an order backlog of 513 planes across its line-up. The MRJ garnered just 233 firm orders. Industry analysts expect Mitsubishi may only supply a quarter of the roughly 4,000 regional jets that will be needed in the 20 years to 2013. Embraer, by contrast, would control 60 percent of the market, they say. "We are very confident of getting a good share in this market, Yugo Fukuhara, vice president and general manager of sales and marketing for the MRJ, told Reuters. Analysts say the newcomers should learn from the Chinese experience of putting a state-owned firm in-charge of a aircraft programmes and trying to source everything at home. They will also need to master the complexity of a large supply chain, pass the rigorous certification process, and establish an after-sales support network. (Additional reporting by Tommy Wilkes in New Delhi and Hyunjoo Jin in Seoul. Editing by Alex Harney and Bill Tarrant.)
NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwired - March 28, 2016) - Dr. Rahul Sharma has been named emergency physician-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and chief of the Division of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, effective Feb. 1. Dr. Sharma succeeds Dr. Neal Flomenbaum, who assumed a new role as chief of emergency medical services at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell.

In his new role, Dr. Sharma oversees all operations for the Lisa Perry Emergency Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center as well as for the Division of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Sharma will continue to serve as Medical Director of Strategic Initiatives and Making Care Better for NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell.

"The emergency department at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell and the Division of Emergency Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine is in excellent hands with Dr. Sharma as its new leader," said Dr. Augustine M.K. Choi, physician-in-chief at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell and the Weill Chairman of the Weill Department of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. "He is an outstanding physician who has contributed to numerous advances in emergency care."

"Our emergency medicine team has a remarkable track record of innovation and providing high-quality care to our patients," said Dr. Sharma, who is also an associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. "As chief of emergency medicine, I look forward to continuing to deliver the very best emergency care for those in need. I would also like to thank Dr. Flomenbaum, who has been a tremendous inspiration and mentor to all of us in emergency medicine."

Most recently, Dr. Sharma served as executive vice chief of emergency medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, where he was responsible for the strategic development of innovative educational and patient-centered programs in the emergency department. Prior to joining NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, he was the medical director and associate chief of service of the emergency department at NYU Langone Medical Center. There, he led post-Superstorm Sandy emergency department rebuilding efforts, including the planning and launch of a new emergency department.

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Dr. Sharma has a distinguished record as a medical educator. He was honored with two national teaching awards, including the Emergency Medicine Residents' Association National Excellence in Teaching Award and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) National Faculty Teaching Award. In addition, he developed the first physician assistant residency program at NewYork-Presbyterian, as well as the emergency medicine in-service board review program at NewYork-Presbyterian.

His groundbreaking work on operational improvement, patient flow and leadership development has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals. He currently serves on two American College of Emergency Physicians national committees -- the National Emergency Medicine Practice Committee and National Quality and Patient Safety Committee -- and he recently chaired the ACEP Emergency Medicine Practice Subcommittee on Triage. Dr. Sharma also serves as an oral boards examiner for the American Board of Emergency Medicine.

He received a combined medical and Master of Business Administration degree in Health Management from Tufts University School of Medicine. He completed his specialty training in emergency medicine at NYU Medical Center/Bellevue Hospital, where he was selected as chief resident.

NewYork-Presbyterian

NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the nation's most comprehensive healthcare delivery networks, focused on providing innovative and compassionate care to patients in the New York metropolitan area and throughout the globe. In collaboration with two renowned medical school partners, Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, NewYork-Presbyterian is consistently recognized as a leader in medical education, groundbreaking research and clinical innovation.

NewYork-Presbyterian has four major divisions: NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital is ranked #1 in the New York metropolitan area by U.S. News and World Report and repeatedly named to the magazine's Honor Roll of best hospitals in the nation; NewYork-Presbyterian Regional Hospital Network is comprised of leading hospitals in and around New York and delivers high-quality care to patients throughout the region; NewYork-Presbyterian Physician Services connects medical experts with patients in their communities; and NewYork-Presbyterian Community and Population Health features the hospital's ambulatory care network sites and operations, community care initiatives and healthcare quality programs, including NewYork Quality Care, established by NewYork-Presbyterian, Weill Cornell and Columbia.

NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the largest healthcare providers in the U.S. Each year, nearly 29,000 NewYork-Presbyterian professionals deliver exceptional care to more than 2 million patients.

For more information, visit www.nyp.org and find us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Weill Cornell Medicine

Weill Cornell Medicine is committed to excellence in patient care, scientific discovery and the education of future physicians in New York City and around the world. The doctors and scientists of Weill Cornell Medicine -- faculty from Weill Cornell Medical College, Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, and Weill Cornell Physician Organization -- are engaged in world-class clinical care and cutting-edge research that connect patients to the latest treatment innovations and prevention strategies. Located in the heart of the Upper East Side's scientific corridor, Weill Cornell Medicine's powerful network of collaborators extends to its parent university Cornell University; to Qatar, where an international campus offers a U.S. medical degree; and to programs in Tanzania, Haiti, Brazil, Austria and Turkey. Weill Cornell Medicine faculty provide comprehensive patient care at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, NewYork-Presbyterian/Lower Manhattan Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens. Weill Cornell Medicine is also affiliated with Houston Methodist. For more information, visit weill.cornell.edu.
Pennsylvania is looming as one of the real wildcards of the presidential season in terms of the outcome of its upcoming presidential primary and the role its GOP delegates will ultimately play this summer at the national convention.

Pennsylvania has become the party-switching capital of the country, with roughly 100,000 Democrats and independents switching their party affiliation to Republican and 70,000 Republicans switching to Democratic ahead of next months primary.

Related: Why a Trump Candidacy Threatens the GOP Majority in Congress

While some of this unquestionably reflects strategic maneuvering by the two parties to help nominate who they perceive as their weakest general election foe, experts say a lot of it has to do with GOP presidential frontrunner Donald Trumps widespread appeal among white, blue collar Democrats, particularly in Pittsburgh and other southwestern areas of the state.

Republican Winners of State Primaries and Caucuses | InsideGov

Earlier this year, more than 20,000 Democrats in Massachusetts changed their party registration to Republican, largely to vote for Trump, according to some state election officials. Trump scored a major victory in Massachusetts in late February, surprising many who thought he would have trouble winning in a state with more moderate Republicans.

But the party switching there pales by comparison to the magnitude of what is taking place in Pennsylvania. Terry Madonna, a professor of political science at Franklin & Marshall College in Pennsylvania, said on Monday that I dont know when weve ever had a situation in which 170,000 people shifted from one party to another or went from being an independent to a member of one or the other parties.



Trump has a good chance of winning narrowly in Pennsylvania, but that may not translate into a needed passel of delegates.

Related: Trump vs. Cruz Is Turning Into a Bare-Knuckled Bar Fight

Thats because the Pennsylvania GOP has one of the most permissive primary election laws regarding how national delegates must vote on the first ballot at the convention this summer. Unlike most other states, 54 of the 71 national delegates elected in Pennsylvania  three from each of 18 congressional districts  are not obliged to support the candidate who garners the most votes statewide in the April 26 primary.

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That means if Trump beats Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas and Ohio Gov. John Kasich of Ohio in the primary contest, three quarters of the 71 total delegates chosen could vote for Cruz or Kasich on the first ballot if they see fit.

Trump narrowly leads Kasich, 33 percent to 30 percent, in a new Franklin and Marshall College poll, while Cruz trails with just 20 percent. In the Democratic contest, meanwhile, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton holds a substantial lead over her rival, Sen Bernie Sanders of Vermont, 53 percent to 28 percent.

"There are a reasonable number of scenarios where Pennsylvania becomes the center of a contested convention," Charlie Gerow, a Republican strategist and a candidate for national delegate, told The Morning Call newspaper in Allentown.

Related: The Five Most Endangered Senate Republicans



Pennsylvania is a big wild card in the Republican process, added Kyle Kondik, a University of Virginia political expert in an email today. Most of the delegates will go to the convention unbound and may be more inclined to back an alternative to Trump.

As for all the party-switching going on, Kondik said, Republican presidential voters who have been registered as Democrats for years finally decided to take the plunge and become an actual Republican. Many states, like Kentucky and West Virginia, have many more registered Democrats than Republicans, even though those states are reliably Republican in presidential elections, Kondik explained. Also, voters just have more interest in the Republican primary this year and are choosing to vote in it instead of the Democratic primary.

In short, Pennsylvania could end up playing an outsized role in the selection of the GOP nominee. While 17 of the 71 national delegates will be bound by the outcome of the statewide beauty contest, the remainder will be free to vote as they see fit.

Related: Trump Might Win the Nomination, but Cruz Won the GOP

Trump is likely to win the nomination and has so far collected 739 of the 1,237 delegates he will need to prevail at the convention. However, Cruz and Kasich  with the backing of more establishment Republican leaders -- are aiming to deny him the crown.

A fight by Trump, Kasich and Cruz over the allegiance of the vast majority of Pennsylvania delegates could be intense in what already has become a dirty and nasty GOP presidential campaign.

Madonna recalled that former President Gerald Ford was just 150 unpledged delegates shy of the majority he needed to win the nomination over Ronald Reagan at the 1976 GOP convention. Ford ultimately prevailed on the first ballot after considerable arm-twisting.

They were negotiating with the delegates for trips on the presidential yacht, visits to the White House; they were doing everything, he said. So I think youre going to see a lot of wooing this time.

Related: For Now, Democrats Savor a Clinton-Trump Matchup this Fall

We are already seeing not only wooing but hardball politics to try to nail down delegate allegiance. Over the weekend, Trump threatened to sue Cruzs campaign for picking off 10 more of the 41 national delegates from Louisiana than he was technically entitled to after Trump won the popular vote in the March 5 primary.

Just to show you how unfair Republican primary politics can be, I won the State of Louisiana and get less delegates than Cruz-Lawsuit coming, Trump tweeted on Sunday.

Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uesugi Farms, headquartered in Gilroy, California, recently decided to grow and expand their solar solution with Vista Solar. Building on their previous Vista Solar installation that was completed in 2013, Uesugi Farms will be adding to their 792kW solution with an additional 594kW, bringing their total solution to 1.386mW!



Pete Aiello, the general manager of Uesugi Farms, stated that "just in the first year, we've saved about $115,000with the savings, we've been able to allocate money to other capital projects, including our cooling operation, ice injector, additions to our packing facility, and another couple pieces of equipment including two large forklifts." As a result of the business expansion, Uesugi Farms looked into growing the current solar solution to accommodate the new energy demands and increase savings.



Mr. Aiello comments that "Vista Solar has met every single expectation we have had, if not exceeding every single expectation. They've done what they said they were going to do, and we know we can count on them for help for the next 20 years to ensure that the system keeps on producing clean solar energy."



Vista Solar is excited to once again collaborate with Mr. Aiello and Uesugi Farms. It is important our partners continue to generate and grow their savings through clean solar energy year after year.



The accompanying photo is an aerial view of the 2013 installation at Uesugi Farms.



About Uesugi Farms



Uesugi Farms was founded in Morgan Hill, CA in 1979 by Joe Aiello and Dennis Humphreys, and is a fully integrated grower/packer/shipper of fresh fruits & vegetables. Joe is still running the company today with the help of his son, Pete. The company currently operates on approximately 4,000 acres in California, 50 acres in Arizona and 1,000 acres in Mexico. Uesugi's list of commodities includes bell peppers, chili peppers, sweet corn, Napa cabbage, pumpkins, strawberries, cherries and beans. In addition to their fruit & vegetable operation, they also operate a retail produce store at their headquarters in Gilroy and a pumpkin patch in Morgan Hill. Additional information about Uesugi Farms can be found online at www.uesugifarms.com.



About Vista Solar



Vista Solar is a California commercial solar electric design and installation firm, which specializes in analyzing commercial and agricultural utility rate structures and optimizing solar system designs to generate the maximum energy bill savings for clients. With over 100 solar installations and +20 megawatts of solar power systems installed across California, Vista Solar has a demonstrated ability to deliver solar solutions that generate dependable energy production and significant long-term financial benefits. For more information, visit www.vista-solar.com and follow Vista Solar on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.

A photo accompanying this release is available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=39604
NEWTOWN, CONN., March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A third round of Syria political negotiations has begun in Geneva, but the conflict in Syria remains a key security concern for the country's neighbors.

Syria's neighbors foresee instability along their borders for the immediate future. Regardless of the results of the negotiations, Iraq's fight to regain its territory from the so-called Islamic State (IS) will continue on, while the other countries will maintain a cautious approach to the non-state actors on their borders.



"Israel has to contend with Hezbollah activity near the Golan Heights, which is of primary concern," said FI's Middle East Analyst, Derek Bisaccio. "At the same time, the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) needs to keep a close eye on the Yarmouk Martyrs Brigade, an Islamic State affiliate that controls part of the border with Israel and has recently gained ground against rebel factions in the area."



Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon all have Islamic State or affiliate groups on their borders with Syria. Lebanon's border includes territory controlled by al-Qaeda's Syrian branch, which has carried out terror attacks inside Lebanese cities. Ankara is worried about the expansion of the Kurdish People's Protection Units, whose political wing, the Democratic Union Party (PYD), recently voted along with other local parties to create a federal zone in northern Syria.

To address the instability, Forecast International expects that of the five countries bordering Syria, four will spend more on defense in 2016 than in 2015. The defense expenditures of Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan will increase by a combined average of 2.85 percent. Iraq's defense budget could see a jump of over 12 percent.



Israel, meanwhile, will spend slightly less this year compared to the previous year, but over Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon's firm objections. Officially, the Defense Ministry will receive around ILS56 billion ($14.4 billion). Ya'alon was able to negotiate to receive more in allocations after arguing that the official amount was insufficient.



The scope of the security threat and the varied types of hardware required to respond to the threat together ensure that military acquisitions will be a priority for these countries.



"Iraq's procurements will focus on equipping the Army with light and medium weapons, and also on acquiring demining devices to clear improvised explosive devices left behind in places like Ramadi," noted Bisaccio. "For Jordan, the military can utilize newly acquired helicopters, such as Cobra combat helicopters and Black Hawks, to further protect its borders from militant groups."



European Union and American defense firms, in particular, will benefit from sales as Syria's neighbors seek to increase their readiness and capabilities. Following Moscow's intervention in the Syrian conflict, Russian systems may also see increased attention.



"Russian officials have touted the Syrian campaign as demonstrating the effectiveness of their military systems in a modern conflict," said Bisaccio. "Russian fighter jets and other aircraft aided the Syrian Army in taking ground in Aleppo, Latakia, Daraa, and elsewhere in the country. Moscow's T-90 tanks, meanwhile, proved far more resilient than the Syrian Army's vehicles to the anti-tank guided missiles in the hands of militant groups."

Even if a political solution can be reached in Geneva, the situation in Syria is likely to remain unstable. IS still controls large amounts of territory and al-Qaeda group Jabhat al-Nusra is unlikely to lay down its arms. The PYD's declaration of a federal zone is at odds with both the government and the opposition. These factors continue to make Syria a potential destabilizer for the region, necessitating higher defense expenditures and more military procurements out of its neighbors.



About Forecast International

Forecast International, Inc. is a leading provider of Market Intelligence and Analysis in the areas of aerospace, defense, power systems and military electronics. The firm, which publishes eight International Military Market services, also maintains a high posture of situational awareness and geopolitical analysis. Based in Newtown, Conn., USA, Forecast International specializes in long-range industry forecasts and market assessments used by strategic planners, marketing professionals, military organizations, and governments worldwide. Forecast International's resources and extensive base of experience can also be readily adapted and efficiently focused to fulfill a broad spectrum of civil and military consulting and special research requirements.
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Riyadh (AFP) - Rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa have released nine Saudis in exchange for 109 Yemenis, the Riyadh-led coalition fighting them said Monday, in the latest sign of tensions easing before peace talks.

"Nine Saudi prisoners have been recovered and 109 Yemenis who were arrested in the military operations zone" near the border have been handed over, the coalition said in a statement.

It did not specify whether the prisoners were combatants or civilians.

The swap follows another exchange of one Saudi soldier for seven Yemenis earlier this month amid tribal mediation that has helped reduce violence along the Saudi-Yemeni border.

Efforts have been building to bring an end to the devastating conflict in Yemen, a year after the Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes against the Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels.

UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed announced last week that the combatants have agreed to a cessation of hostilities from midnight on April 10, followed by talks in Kuwait on April 18.

Previous negotiations have failed and earlier ceasefires were not respected, but analysts say a more conducive atmosphere prevails ahead of the new round of talks.

Andreas Krieg of the Department of Defence Studies at King's College London said the prisoner swap is "a sign of Saudi goodwill" before the Kuwait negotiations.

It signals to the Huthis that Riyadh and its allies are "willing to make compromises to bring these talks to a successful end," said Krieg, who also teaches at the Qatari Armed Forces Staff College.

Adam Baron, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said "there is widespread hope that the upcoming Kuwait talks will function as a step in the right direction."

- 'Immeasurable suffering' -

The coalition said Monday that border areas remained relatively calm.

It said it hoped to see the lull "spread to combat zones in order to facilitate the sending of humanitarian aid to all of Yemen's territory" and to support UN efforts to reach a political settlement.

Story continues

In a rare incident that broke the calm, the Saudi Civil Defence agency said on Sunday that eight people, including four children, had been wounded by fire from Yemen.

More than 90 people have been killed on the Saudi side of the frontier by shelling and in skirmishes over the past year.

The Huthis seized Sanaa in September 2014 then advanced south, raising fears in Riyadh that the rebels would extend the influence of Shiite Iran in the kingdom's southern neighbour.

Local forces backed by coalition ground troops have since pushed the Huthis out of five southern provinces and second city Aden, where President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has established a temporary capital.

But the rebels -- allied with elite troops loyal to Hadi's ousted predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh -- have held on elsewhere including the capital.

The United Nations says about 6,300 people have been killed in the war, more than half of them civilians.

On Sunday the World Health Organization said Yemen's civilians were undergoing "immeasurable suffering", including almost 2.5 million internally displaced.

Sunni extremists of the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have exploited the chaos, widening their footholds in Yemen's south and carrying out deadly attacks against both the Shiite rebels and Hadi's loyalists.

Human rights groups have criticised the high civilian death toll from the coalition's bombing campaign and have called on Western governments to stop selling arms to Saudi Arabia.
Ankara (AFP) - Turkey has protested over the presence and behaviour of consuls from EU states at the controversial espionage trial of two journalists, an official said Monday, in an escalating spat between Ankara and its Western allies.

A diplomatic source said Turkey objected to comments on social media by some of the diplomats who attended the first day of the trial of the Cumhuriyet daily's editor-in-chief Can Dundar and Ankara bureau chief Erdem Gul.

"We have conveyed our discomfort to the concerned countries' representatives over the comments shared on social media which may constitute interference in the independent judicial process and which do not comply with impartiality," the source said.

Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag earlier slammed the diplomats' behaviour as "unacceptable", in an angry tirade of 14 tweets.

He warned that attempts to influence the Turkish judiciary were a "crime" and said some of the consuls were "exceeding their authority".

"Turkey is not a colony: Turkey is an independent and strong state. Turkish courts and Turkish judges are independent," he said.

The first day of the trial Friday was attended by top diplomats including the British consul general to Istanbul, who published pictures from the court on his Twitter account.

Leigh Turner, the British consul in Istanbul, posted a series of tweets on @LeighTurnerFCO and shared pictures including a selfie with a grinning Dundar under the hashtag #freedomofexpression.

Dundar and Gul are being tried over a story accusing President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government of seeking to illicitly deliver arms bound for Syria.

The case has amplified concerns over freedom of expression in Turkey, which Reporters Without Borders ranked 149th out of 180 countries for press freedom in 2015.

Using a hugely controversial legal article, almost 2,000 people have been prosecuted for "insulting" Erdogan since the former premier became president in August 2014,

Story continues

- 'Grinning ear-to-ear' -

Erdogan, who had warned Dundar he would "pay a heavy price" over the story, lashed out at Turner over his selfie with the journalist.

"The chief consul of a country stands up and goes to a trial of a journalist facing espionage charges," Erdogan said in a speech in Istanbul on Monday, quoted by the state-run Anatolia news agency.

"As if it is not enough, he then takes a picture with him grinning ear-to-ear and posts it," the president said.

Faced with a wave of positive and negative comments over his posts, Turner replied: "It is for Turks to decide what kind of country they wish to live in."

That also infuriated Erdogan who accused the consul, without directly naming, him of using "expressions that overstep their boundaries."

The president said: "If this person is still able to work in our country, it is thanks to our hospitality."

"Elsewhere, such diplomats who display such behaviour would not be hosted for a single day."

British Minister for Europe David Lidington had backed Turner's attendance at the trial, describing it as an "important case for freedom of media in Turkey."

Cumhuriyet's report on a shipment of arms being intercepted at the Syrian border in January 2014 sparked outrage when it was published in May, fuelling speculation about Turkey's dealings with various groups in Syria.

The court on Friday accepted the president and Turkey's intelligence agency as civil plaintiffs in the case.

But the judge ordered the trial to be held behind closed doors, granting a request by the prosecution which cited "national security" concerns.

The decision caused an immediate outcry and was protested by opposition politicians who refused to leave the courtroom, prompting the judge to adjourn the trial until April 1.
Cross-Border Truck Convoy Ready to Roll

The challenge is also backed by ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, with hopes to accelerate the development of convoy-driving corridors in Europe and pave the way for EU legislative changes.

Three extra-long trucks are set to leave March 29 from Scania in Sodertalje, Sweden, to drive in a close convoy to Rotterdam, the Netherlands as part of an initiative headed by the Netherlands, which currently holds the EU presidency, intended to fast-track the development of truck convoys. Convoys could increase safety while reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in long-haul road operations, and Scania is one of several stakeholders taking part in the European Truck Platooning Challenge. Taking place March 29 through April 6, it is the world's first cross-border initiative of this type, according to the company.

The challenge is also backed by ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association, with hopes to accelerate the development of convoy-driving corridors in Europe and pave the way for EU legislative changes.

"The European Truck Platooning Challenge is an excellent opportunity for us to increase awareness in both Sweden and Europe of the major advantages provided by vehicle convoys in achieving safer and more efficient transport operations and in improving traffic flows," said Jonas Hofstedt, who heads Powertrain Development at Scania. "We also hope to increase understanding of the fact that common standards are required for the different support systems and that joint European legislation is required in order to enable large-scale convoy driving."

Scania has developed truck combinations that can drive with only a short distance between them, a practice called platooning. The first vehicle in the convoy acts as the leader, and the others follow and adapt to it. Scania has used platooning in its own transport operations and demonstrated that by reducing drag, it is possible to achieve fuel savings up to 10 percent in real traffic conditions.

The company reports many trucks now are equipped with radar and camera-based systems that enable vehicles to maintain shorts distances between them and the vehicles ahead -- with enhanced communications, vehicles can safely travel as little as 10 meters apart. For the leg between Sodertalje and Malmo in Sweden, the Scania truck and trailer combinations will be driven with an extra trailer, making their total length 32 meters.

"Longer vehicle combinations are something that we're already testing on some stretches of road and with which we are achieving good results," Hofstedt said. "Adding an extra trailer increases the amount of goods in every transport movement, reducing per tonne-kilometer costs by 40 percent and carbon dioxide emissions by more than one-quarter."
An upstart faces a tough climb to break into Singapore's already saturated telecom industry.

The city-state, with a population of only around 5.5 million, already has three mobile-service operators, all of which have some government-linked ownership. And there aren't a lot of residents who haven't already picked a carrier: The mobile penetration rate is hovering around 150 percent, meaning many people have more than one device, according to Ryan Tay, senior research manager of Telecoms at IDC Asia Pacific.

But Malcolm Rodrigues, founder and chief executive officer of internet service provider MyRepublic, believes there's room for a fourth telco in Singapore.

"There's a whole other climate for data, as we expect the Singapore mobility market to grow from 8 million to 9 million over the next year, and the demand for Internet of Things (IOT) will also see over 50 million devices requiring connectivity in the next five years," Rodrigues told CNBC.

"Existing operators are not ready to support it," said Rodrigues, who is also a former senior executive at StarHub, one of Singapore's three telecommunication companies.

Rodrigues isn't alone in thinking another company can eke out a share of the tight market.

IDC Asia Pacific's Tay thinks there's definitely room for a fourth telco in Singapore, "considering the growing trend of people owning more than one mobile device, driven by the shift towards a mobile workforce and consumerization."

The government is on board with adding another competitor as it's looking ahead to keeping up with technology advances. The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) told CNBC that "with consumers' increasing demand for mobile broadband service, new technology and service developments in the industry (e.g. emergence of 'Machine-to-Machine' communications), there may be new business opportunities and market segments for new players."

MyRepublic is aiming to win 9 percent of the Singapore mobile market within five years, a goal its CEO calls "pretty conservative." The company is already offering a home broadband service in Singapore, with 50,000 subscribers.

Story continues

But it's not clear how much of the pie is up for grabs. Currently, IDC estimates SingTel has around 50 percent of Singapore's mobile subscribers, while StarHub (Singapore Exchange: STAR-SG) has 27 percent and M1 has 23 percent.

Those three aren't twiddling their thumbs while waiting for competition to arrive.

In early March, Singtel, StarHub and M1 announced they slashed their post-paid users' prices for add-on mobile data. In local media, it was widely reported as a "mobile price war" ahead of potential entrants.

"The competitive pricing for add-on data and upsize option could be a ploy to counter MyRepublic's data-only plans," said Jonathan Koh, analyst at UOB Kay Hain, in a March 17 note. "Incumbents Singtel, M1 and StarHub are signaling their determination to do "whatever it takes" to defend their market shares."

Additionally, any new player is likely to start on the back foot.

"We believe any potential new player is unlikely to have a competitive advantage on cost structure to build a viable business plan," said analysts at Deutsche Bank in a March 16 note.

The new player would also be up against integrated players StarHub and Singtel offering multiple services, such as broadband internet and cable television, which allow them to employ bundling strategies, said Deutsche Bank.

But MyRepublic's Rodrigues is looking at M1's customer base, saying it's "probably most at risk because of their limited service offerings," which are primarily mobile service and home broadband.

M1 "will be the most aggressive in the market as they try to retain their customers," said Rodrigues.

MyRepublic is planning to aim for the market fringes: both the lower end of the mobile market, or pre-paid users, and the highest end, Rodrigues said. The company has already announced its two planned pricing plans: The first with 2 gigabytes of data at 4.5G network speeds for S$8 ($5.80) monthly with additional data charges at S$8/GB and the second for an unlimited data-usage mobile plan costing S$80 ($58.40) per month.



That would make MyRepublic the first telco in Singapore to offer unlimited mobile data usage plans.

The lowest data usage SIM-only mobile plans offered by StarHub and Singtel are 3GB at S$21.45 ($15.65) and S$20 ($14.60) respectively, compared to MyRepublic's 3GB mobile plan for S$16. On the higher end of the market, it would cost S$110 ($80.30) for a StarHub 12GB mobile plan, compared to MyRepublic's unlimited data usage plan capped at S$80 ($58.40).

Rodrigues, who is Canadian, told CNBC that he's already pleased with the registration of interest on MyRepublic's website. In under a week, about 15,000 people had registered their interest, 80 percent of which were interested in the unlimited data mobile plan.

But first, MyRepublic has other hurdles to jump: The spectrum auction likely won't be held until the third quarter of this year, and it's not the only one throwing its hat into the ring.

Wireless software services provider Consistel's OMGtel has also announced its interest in a sliver of Singapore's market.

Follow CNBC International on Twitter and Facebook.





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Pro-Russian authorities on Saturday urged residents in the southern Kherson region, which Moscow claims to have annexed, to leave the main city "immediately" in the face of Kyiv's advancing counter-offensive. It comes as President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia had launched 36 rockets overnight in a "massive attack" on Ukraine, following reported strikes on energy infrastructure that resulted in power outages across the country. And Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida became the latest world leader to reproach Moscow for its talk of using nuclear weapons. Kyiv's forces have been advancing along the west bank of the Dnipro river, towards the Kherson region's eponymous main city. Kherson was the first major city to fall to Moscow's troops, and retaking it would be a major prize in Ukraine's counter-offensive. In recent days, Russia has been moving residents in the region -- which Moscow claims to have annexed in September -- east to Russia, in efforts Kyiv has denounced as "deportations". "Due to the tense situation on the front, the increased danger of mass shelling of the city and the threat of terrorist attacks, all civilians must immediately leave the city and cross to the left bank" of the Dnipro river, the region's pro-Russian authorities announced on social media. A Moscow-installed official in Kherson, Kirill Stremousov, told Russian news agency Interfax on Saturday that around 25,000 people had made the crossing. Sergiy Khlan, the Ukrainian deputy head of the Kherson region, said Russians were removing property and documents from banks and the passport office as they withdrew. Ukraine's general staff said Moscow's forces had abandoned two more settlements in Kherson and were evacuating medical personnel from a third, accusing them of looting local civilians. - A 'serious threat' - Earlier Saturday, Japan's Kishida denounced Moscow's comments regarding the possible use of nuclear weapons in the Ukraine conflict. "Russia's act of threatening the use of nuclear weapons is a serious threat to the peace and security of the international community and absolutely unacceptable," he said. The 77-year period of no nuclear weapons use "must not be ended", said Kishida, speaking in Australia. Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, Putin has made several thinly veiled threats about his willingness to deploy tactical nuclear weapons. Earlier this month, the European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warned that the Russian army would be "annihilated" if Russia launched such an attack. Washington has also warned Moscow of "catastrophic" consequences should they use such weapons. Japan is the only country ever to have been hit with nuclear weapons: the US atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, which killed 140,000 people, and the second US bomb on Nagasaki, three days later, which killed 74,000 people. - 'Afraid for our lives' - At a train station in the town of Dzhankoy in the north of Crimea, a peninsula that Moscow annexed from Ukraine in 2014, Kherson residents were boarding a train for southern Russia, an AFP reporter saw Friday. "We are leaving Kherson because heavy shelling started there, we are afraid for our lives," said Valentina Yelkina, a pensioner travelling with her daughter. More than a million households in Ukraine have been left without electricity following Russian strikes on energy facilities across the country, the deputy head of the Ukrainian presidency Kyrylo Tymoshenko said on Saturday. Fresh Russian strikes targeted energy infrastructure in Ukraine's west, the national operator said earlier, with officials in several regions of the war-scarred country reporting power outages as winter approaches. Russians "carried out another missile attack on energy facilities of the main networks of Ukraine's western regions", Ukraine's energy operator Ukrenergo said on social media. "These are vile strikes on critical objects," said Zelensky. "The world can and must stop this terror." Power outages were reported in other parts of the country and local officials repeated calls to reduce energy use. Some parts of Ukraine have already cut their electricity use by up to 20 percent, according to Ukrenergo. "Saturday in Ukraine starts with a barrage of Russian missiles aimed at critical civilian infrastructure," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Twitter. He once again urged Kyiv's allies to hasten the delivery of air defence systems. In the Russian Belgorod region bordering Ukraine, at least two civilians were killed in strikes on Saturday, according to the local governor Vyacheslav Gladkov. Nearly 15,000 people were left without electricity, he added. Russia last week reported a "considerable increase" in Ukrainian fire into its territory, saying attacks had largely concentrated on Belgorod region and neighbouring regions of Bryansk and Kursk. bur-imm/jj/ah
BRUSSELS (AFP)  Belgium charged a suspect thought to be the fugitive third Brussels airport bomber with terrorist murder, as a Sunday peace march for the victims was cancelled for security reasons after the attacks in the heart of Europe.

The postponement of the Easter Sunday rally underscored the tension in Belgium as police track members of an Islamic State group cell linked to both Tuesdays Brussels attacks that killed 31 as well as the Paris assaults in November.

The airport suspect officially identified as Faycal C, and named by sources close to the inquiry as Faycal Cheffou, was arrested on Thursday night as investigators believe he could be the third man pictured in airport surveillance footage alongside two suicide bombers.

The third man, wearing a distinctive dark hat and light-colored jacket, has been the subject of a massive manhunt after he fled the scene when his device failed to go off in the attack at Zaventem airport.

In the grieving Belgian capital, a defiant March Against Fear had been planned for Sunday from the central Place de La Bourse, which has become a shrine to the victims, but was called off after authorities said the mass gathering could draw much-needed resources away from the investigation.

Let us allow the security services to do their work and that the march, which we too want to take part in, be delayed for several weeks, Brussels mayor Yvan Mayeur said.

March organizers said the security of our citizens is an absolute priority. We join the authorities in proposing a delay and ask people not to come this Sunday.

Brussels airport meanwhile said an examination of the main building housing the departure hall wrecked by two suicide bombers showed the structure is stable and authorities will now see if temporary check-in desks can be installed.

In a separate statement earlier the airport said it did not expect to be able to reopen before Tuesday, with a partial resumption of passenger services, as it repaired the damage and put in place new security measures.

Story continues

Algerian arrested

In southern Italy, Algerian Djamal Eddine Ouali, 40, was arrested by anti-terrorism police after a series of raids and arrests in Belgium and Germany since the attacks, Italian media said.

He was suspected of having made false documents for militants connected to the attacks.

His name was found in documents in a raid in an apartment near Brussels last October, including some with photos of militants involved in the attacks in Paris and Brussels and the aliases they used.
By John Whitesides WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton rebuked Senate Republicans on Monday for denying a hearing to U.S. Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland, accusing them of obstructionism, and warned of dangers if Donald Trump appointed the next justice. In a speech in Wisconsin, Clinton put the future of the Supreme Court at the centre of the election debate, cautioning that any Trump-appointed justices would be likely to roll back workers' and abortion rights and "demolish pillars of the progressive movement." "What kind of justice would a President Trump appoint, or for that matter what kind of attorney general?" she asked, noting the Republican front-runner wants a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country and the deportation of millions of undocumented immigrants. "Once you make the extreme normal, you open the door to even worse," she said in Madison, Wisconsin, as part of a two-day trip to the state ahead of its April 5 Democratic and Republican primary elections. Clinton called on Republican Chuck Grassley, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, to "do his job" and convene a hearing for Garland, a moderate federal appeals judge who is President Barack Obama's nominee to fill the seat vacated by the Feb. 13 death of Antonin Scalia. Grassley and other Senate Republicans have said they will not hold a hearing or a vote on an Obama nominee in a presidential election year, contending that voters should have a say when they elect the next president on Nov. 8. "Id say my voice is being ignored right now because of their obstructionism," Clinton said. "We chose a president  we chose him twice  and now Republicans in the Senate are acting like our votes didnt count and President Obama is not still our nations leader." Clinton said the Republican refusal to consider Garland was the "latest in a long line of actions aimed at disrupting our government and undermining our president, and the result is an America that is more divided, less functional and less secure." Grassley, a six-term senator from Iowa who has tangled with Clinton over the investigation into her use of a private e-mail account while secretary of state, responded that Clinton wanted to distract voters from the ongoing email investigations. "This is simply a blatant attempt by Secretary Clinton to politicize the Supreme Court and to change the conversation," Grassley, who heads the committee that must hold hearings on any Supreme Court nominee, said in a statement ahead of Clinton's speech. Clinton has apologised for the email arrangement, which is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and has been slammed by Republicans for potentially compromising security. Clinton has said she did nothing wrong and she believes the government will vindicate her. WISCONSIN UP NEXT Garland travelled to Capitol Hill on Monday to meet with Democratic Senators Ben Cardin of Maryland and Joe Donnelly of Indiana. His first visit with a Republican, Senator Mark Kirk of Illinois, is scheduled for Tuesday. Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee wrote to Grassley on Monday and proposed hearings on Garland in April, with votes on the nomination by May 25. Clinton's speech came as her campaign aides argued with rival Bernie Sanders' campaign in competing calls with the media over whether Sanders has a viable path to the Democratic presidential nomination. Sanders, a U.S. senator from Vermont, won contests in Alaska, Hawaii and Washington on Saturday, chipping away at Clinton's lead in the race for the 2,382 delegates needed to secure the Democratic nomination at the party's Philadelphia convention in July. Clinton now has a lead of 268 pledged delegates over Sanders. When superdelegates, party leaders who can support any candidate, are added, Clinton leads 1,712-1,004, according to an Associated Press count. But Sanders aides said he could eclipse Clinton's advantage once the final round of contests are held on June 7, and that superdelegates would begin to switch to back Sanders once he did. "We are in this to win it, and there is a path to do so," campaign manager Jeff Weaver said. Clinton's campaign described her lead as "insurmountable" given the party's proportional allocation of delegates in all states, which means Clinton will keep piling up delegates even in states Sanders wins. "You have to win these big states very big, you have to win by landslides" to make up the deficit, Clinton strategist Joel Benenson told reporters. Trump also plans to campaign in Wisconsin this week as he seeks to build his lead over Republican rivals U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas and Ohio Governor John Kasich. Trump has won 738 of the 1,237 delegates needed to take the Republican nomination at its July convention in Cleveland. Cruz has won 463, while Kasich has won 143, according to The New York Times. (Additional reporting by Doina Chiacu, Susan Heavey, Amanda Becker and Ginger Gibson; Editing by Meredith Mazzilli, Howard Goller and Leslie Adler)
Syrian forces pressed their offensive against the Islamic State group, the day after seizing control of the ancient city of Palmyra in a major blow for the jihadists. Regime troops pushed on towards Deir Ezzor province, an IS bastion, the day after wresting control of the desert ruins with the help of Russian air strikes. Analysts said the government's seizure of Palmyra was the biggest blow so far in the war against IS and a major coup both for Damascus and Moscow. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad hailed the victory as "fresh proof of the efficiency of the Syrian army and its allies in fighting terrorism". IS destroyed more than a dozen tombs and temples during its 10-month occupation of the UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the "Pearl of the Desert". Syria's antiquities chief said the monuments could be restored in five years, although a UN expert cast doubt on the time-frame. Inside the city, army sappers worked to defuse bombs and mines planted by IS before they retreated on Monday. One soldier said more than 50 had been disarmed. Outside, Syria's military turned their attention to other IS-held towns as they pushed towards Raqa, the jihadists' de facto capital. "The army was concentrated around Al-Qaryatain, and today the military operations began there," said a military source in Palmyra. "That is the next goal for the Syrian army. They also have their eyes on Sukhnah," he added, referring to a town northeast of Palmyra. The United States cautiously welcomed the victory for Assad, but said warned against allowing him to expand his "ability to tyrannize the Syrian people". - 5 years to rebuild - Concern has been mounting for the ancient city since IS overran it in May 2015 and began a campaign to destroy tombs and shrines it considers idolatrous. In September, they demolished the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel and a month later blew up the Arch of Triumph, from around 200 AD. The jihadists also used Palmyra's ancient theatre as a venue for public executions and murdered the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief, Khaled al-Assaad. Syria's head of antiquities, Maamoun Abdulkarim, told AFP that 80 percent of the site was still "in good shape" and the ancient ruins could be restored in five years with UNESCO's help. But UN expert Annie Sartre-Fauriat said she was "very doubtful" that would be possible. "Everyone is excited because Palmyra has been 'liberated', but we should not forget everything that has been destroyed," said Sartre-Fauriat, who belongs to a group of experts on Syrian heritage set up by UNESCO in 2013. Analysts said losing Palmyra was a major setback for IS, which has come under growing pressure from Syrian and Iraqi forces set on breaking apart its self-proclaimed "caliphate". "The past week exemplifies the future of the Islamic State: relentless internal setbacks amid persistent external attacks," said the US-based Soufan Group. Syria expert Thomas Pierret said the loss of Palmyra showed IS was "clearly weaker than in the past", but warned the jihadists will likely fight harder to keep control of Raqa and Deir Ezzor. - Russia in focus - US Secretary of State John Kerry vowed to pile more pressure on IS after meeting with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Washington. But experts say Russia's role in Palmyra has also left the West scrambling to figure out Putin's game plan. His announcement this month that Russia was withdrawing troops from Syria was greeted with much fanfare, but analysts said only 10-25 percent of forces have left since then. Moscow also openly admitted for the first time since it launched it operations in Syria last September that it has special forces on the ground as part of the offensive. "All the talk in the West that Russia was going to ditch Assad was nonsense," said Pavel Felgengauer, a Russian military analyst. "We are not planning to abandon him now. Russia wants Assad to stay in power and the goal is to give him a chance to win the civil war." Assad's other key ally, Iran, has also hailed the recapture of Palmyra and pledged its continued financial and military assistance. Hadi al-Bahra of the opposition National Coalition said the regime should have stopped IS from taking Palmyra to begin with. "From the start, the regime's strategy was to allow the threat posed by Daesh to grow, in order to tell the West that either Daesh or Assad would prevail."
3 stages at Echelon Indonesia 2016, 3 times the possibilities

With Echelon Indonesia 2016 slightly more than a week away, here is your beginners guide to the 3 different stages of the conference  Start, Scale and Steer.

Start Stage

Trends and insights, thought leadership sharing, inspirational stories

Whos involved: Every attendee

Be inspired by: Fireside chats and keynote presentations on topics such as Big Ideas, Breakthroughs, Stories and rags to riches tales

Highlights:



Deputy Chairman of BEKRAF, Ricky Pesiks Welcome Speech

TOP100 Indonesia Startup Search

Managing Partner of Venturra Capital, Stefan Jung keynote on Debunking Startup Investment Myths in SEA

Grab Indonesia MD, Ridzki Kramadibratas keynote on Revolutionizing Indonesias Transportation Industry

Scale Zone

Scaling businesses with product knowledge, technical knowhow and community building

Whos involved: CTOs, CPOs, CIOs, Product Devs/Designers, SMEs, Enterprises, Offline Businesses Community Leaders and Builders

Be inspired by: Keynotes and Masterclasses on Product Thought Leadership, Technical Masterclasses, Market Access, Community and Delegations Showcase

Highlights:

Founder of Dicoding, Narenda Wicaksonos keynote on From Grassroots To Glory Through Code & Computer Science

Bandung Community Showcase, powered by Kolaborasi with its CEO & Co-Founder Adryan Hafizh as moderator

Co-founder of Netizen Experience and UX Consultant, Alvin Chai keynote on UI/UX Techniques For A Seamless Product Design

Founder of Growth Hacking Asia, Anna Rehermann Masterclass on Growth Hacking Fundamentals For Startups & Small Businesses

Also Read: 10 tech powerhouses taking the Echelon stage this April

Steer Zone

All about addressing Indonesias Ecommerce Roadmap and steering the nations surge into the digital age

Whos involved: E-Commerce Stakeholders, Social Entrepreneurship Stakeholders, Government/Regulators

Be inspired by: Panel Discussions on everything hyperlocal, Strategic Roundtable and High Level Discussions on Actionable Steps for anyone interested in Indonesias ecosystem

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Highlights:

Panels on Startup Life, Featuring Female Founders and Girls In Tech with Faustine Tan (HotelQuickly), Aulia Halimatussadiah (Zetta Media), Stephanie Yoe (blibli.com), Pocket Sun (SoGal Ventures) and Shannon Kalayanamitr (Orami) and

How Can Corporations Deal With The Startup Revolution In Indonesia? with Vivek Ladsariya (Fenox Venture Capital), Nicko Widjaja (MDI Ventures), John Riady (Lippo Ventures) and Ivan A. Sandjaja (Ciputra Foundation)

Founder Confessions

University Talent Runway



Full agenda can be viewed here. Head over to secure your spot to Echelon Indonesia 2016 (April 5-6, Kartika Expo Centre, Balai Kartini Jakarta) now!

The post Skills to start, scale and steer your business in 2 days. Its possible! appeared first on e27.
Public advisory group Foundation for Economic Freedom (FEF) is pushing for major amendments to the countrys anti-money laundering law after hackers siphoned $81 million from the Bangladesh Bank.

The FEF, chaired by former finance secretary Roberto de Ocampo, said the laundering of money stolen from the Bangladesh Banks account in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York using the countrys financial system and casino industry has demonstrated the need to strengthen the authority of government to prosecute those criminally liable under the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA).

We support the amendment of the AMLA to cover casinos, real estate transactions, and art purchases, and giving the Anti-Money Laundering Council the power to immediately freeze suspicious accounts under certain conditions, the advocacy group said.

The Senate Blue Ribbon committee, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), and the AMLC are conducting separate investigations on the alleged money laundering cases involving Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC), Jupiter  Makati branch manager Maia Santos-Deguito, businessman Kim Wong, among others.

FEF said the Philippine financial system was compromised when banking and Anti-Money Laundering authorities are blocked from uncovering the truth about offenses of money laundering due to current bank secrecy laws.

Therefore, we in the FEF, an organization advocating good governance, market-friendly economic reforms, and economic and political liberty, support the relaxation of certain provisions of the bank secrecy law that impede investigation by banking and Anti-Money Laundering authorities of suspicious accounts, for the prosecution of money laundering, drug dealing, terrorist activities, and other major crimes, FEF said.

With the amendments to the bank secrecy law, FEF said criminals would be put on notice that they cannot use the bank secrecy law to hide the movement of ill-gotten wealth and will be deterred from using the Philippine financial system in the first place.

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FEF is also reviving proposals for the national ID system to help deter money-laundering activities using the countrys financial system.

Because fictitious bank accounts were reportedly used in the transaction under investigation, FEF is calling for the implementation of a biometric-based national ID system to prevent the easy creation of fictitious accounts, FEF said.

Explanation needed

Sen. Sergio Osmena, chairman of the Senate committee on banks and financial institutions, said Wong needs to explain to the Senate the circumstances behind the questionable transfer of bulk of the multibillion-peso cash transaction.

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III said Wong needs to respond to allegations of Deguito that he was responsible for the five dollar accounts initially suspected to have been used to facilitate the transfers.

And then (Wong should) explain why part of the $81 million ended with his casino firm and bank accounts, Pimentel added.

Pimentel and Osmena referred to how proceeds of the $81-million dirty money were transferred to Wongs firm, casino junket operator Eastern Hawaii Leisure Co. Ltd.

Sen. Vicente Sotto challenged Wongs camp to make good their commitment in public interviews that the trader would appear during the resumption of the Senate Blue Ribbon hearing tomorrow.

Wongs counsel Inocencio Ferrer Jr. has given assurance his client will tell the truth in the hearing and help the Senate in its investigation.

As early as March 7, I personally visited the Anti-Money Laundering Council to offer my clients cooperation, in good faith, I went to the AMLC to ask them how my client can be of assistance in their investigation, Ferrer said.

Pimentel added the RCBC is not yet off the hook on the issue.

RCBC should be investigated for money-laundering. A bank can only act through its officers and personnel, hence, all are to be investigated, Pimentel said.

For his part, Osmena said RCBC should show it exercises due diligence over suspicious transactions.

Pimentel earlier said he wanted to know what the AMLC is doing regarding RCBC, where the hot money were transferred to local accounts before these were converted to pesos by the Philippine Remittance Co. (Philrem), moved to Wongs and then Weikang Xus accounts.  With Christina Mendez
By Paul Sandle and Francesco Guarascio LONDON/BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Facial recognition software, scanners that detect weapons and cameras that spot nervous people are some of the technologies that could be used more widely to secure public places, but some would require greater acceptance of surveillance in Europe. The deadly attacks in Brussels on Tuesday highlighted the vulnerability of Europe's airports and transport systems. European Union officials, grappling with the conundrum of how to increase security while retaining the openness of society, have convened meetings to discuss aviation and land transport security. Their goal is to be able to monitor passengers unobtrusively while minimising additional hold ups that create crowds, which can themselves become new targets. Experts say technology cannot solve the problem on its own, but techniques such as facial recognition able to pick out known suspects can help if Europeans decide they want more surveillance. Technology security expert and academic Pierluigi Paganini said if properly applied, facial recognition technology could have alerted security forces to the bombers at Brussels airport. "For the technology to be effective, it is however necessary to have several cameras operating, especially, in the case of an airport, at the transit zones," he said. Paul Murphy from IndigoVision, a British company which specialises in video security systems, said a typical system could require 2,000 cameras and powerful computer servers. "Only in the last two years has it become affordable and reliable," he said. "The cost has been prohibitive until recently and also the technology wasn't quite good enough." Such systems have been installed at Israel's Ben Gurion International, major hubs in the Middle East and an airport in South America, he said. But the technology was still not as good as a human, he said, and it could be hampered by simple measures like donning headwear. At least one of the bombers in Brussels was wearing a hat. Recognising a suspect in real time is far harder than identifying a suspect after an incident. "Comparing all of those faces (in a crowd) against a database is a enormously difficult task," said Kevin Riordan, UK director of checkpoint solutions at British airport scanner maker Smiths. "Looking for a particular face in a crowd is easier." Real-time identification requires the suspect to be known to authorities and present in the database used by the airport. Elke Oberg of German software group Cognitec said the availability of data to be matched with images taken by cameras was a problem. "For this, it is obvious that security agencies should share more information, in compatible formats, which is rarely the case at the moment," she said. NERVOUS FLUSH The latest airport body scanner machines detect hidden objects with extremely high frequency radiation known as millimetre waves, which bounce off things they strike. Britain's Qinetiq, a privatised former government defence research agency, is working on Passive Millimetre Wave technology that monitors naturally occurring energy from passengers, rather than requiring them to queue up and pass through a scanner that shines a beam at them. It can find concealed weapons at a distance of up to 15 metres, the company says. But any such technologies would still rely on security people on the ground able to respond in seconds. "There are some technologies that are moving us forward, but many of them rely on people making decisions," said Chris Phillips, former head of Britain's National Counter-Terrorism Security office. Israel's Suspect Detection Systems (SDS) is developing thermal cameras able to point out suspects in a crowd by spotting unusual body heat, signalling nervousness. Chief Executive Shabtai Shoval, however, also said surveillance must be combined with agents on the ground. "For example, if set up at the entrance to a terminal to mark out potential terrorists, it would be of limited use if there are not security personnel available on the spot to intercept them," he said. One change on the table at the EU talks will be screening passengers at the entrance to airports, a process already in place in locations like Istanbul. Smith's Riordan said technology was not good enough to scan passengers as they entered a terminal without interrupting the flow. "Millimetre wave technology can do that to a certain range, but whether it can detect what is in somebody's rucksack is another matter." Security portals, which passengers could walk through largely unimpeded, had been deployed, he said, but their effectiveness was limited by the explosives used in attacks not being "very smelly". A better solution might be more use of dogs. "They're much smarter if trained correctly," one EU official said. Another technology being developed by Israel's SDS would allow authorities to contact smartphone-holders in the vicinity of a suspected terrorist incident and commandeer the cameras on their smartphones. "This could be applied after there is an initial attack and a pursuit of suspects, or when an attack has not yet happened but a suspect has been reported," Shoval said. But the technology would require a mind-set shift on the part of civilians, turning them into first-responders. "Israelis are used to this. In Israel, civilians feel like they are also on the front line," he said. "The question is whether the same can be said for Europeans." (Writing by Paul Sandle; additional reporting by Dan Williams, Tova Cohen, Julia Fioretti and Eric Auchard; editing by Peter Graff)
- A new report indicates that more than 500,000 Kenyan citizens may be unaware that they are HIV positive

- The study was conducted by Assisted Partner Notification Services across 18 Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) centres across Kenya from 2013 until August of 2015

A new study from the Assisted Partner Notification Services indicates that for every three Kenyans who is diagnosed as positive for HIV, one is diagnosed through a referral of someone who has tested positive.

This could mean that there are more than 500,000 people living in Kenya who are HIV positive and are entirely unaware of their status.

READ ALSO: HIV/AIDS Is Leading Cause Of Adolescent Deaths - UNICEF

So how did the study work? People who tested positive for HIV for asked to give contact information (a referral) of someone that they had sexual relations.

The Assisted Partner Notification Services then contacted the referrals. Out of nearly 1,900 people that were referred by those who had tested positive for HIV, nearly 35% tested positive for the virus.

READ ALSO: Survey: Increasing Rates Of Obesity In Kenyan HIV-Infected Adults

The study was conducted in Western and Central Kenya VCT centers.

Despite major advancements in prevention and awareness causing the HIV positive rate to fall to about 6.1% by 2013, in the same year more than 100,000 new infections of the virus in Kenya also occurred.

Approximately 1.6 million people in Kenya are living with the HIV virus.

Homa Bay county has the highest prevalence of people living with HIV/AIDS, with a positive rate at approximately 26%.

READ ALSO: Kenyan pastor in UK in hot-soup for selling oil as 'miracle cancer, AIDS cure'

Image: IRIN News

Source: TUKO.co.ke
Al Qaeda Nusra Front

Al Qaeda is employing a strategy that might help the terrorist group outlast ISIS in Syria, and it's revealing its true jihadist endgame in the process.

As a different terrorist group, ISIS  aka the Islamic State, ISIL, or Daesh  claims responsibility for a terrorist attack in Belgium, Syrian Al Qaeda affiliate the Nusra Front (also known as Jabhat al-Nusra) is flying under the radar, hoping to continue gaining influence in Syria.

And experts think that it could be a bigger threat to the US than ISIS in the long term.

While ISIS has taken over territory in the Middle East with force and uses violence to repress the populations it controls, the Nusra Front has been working toward winning popular support in the country, hoping that its strategy will help it outlast other jihadist groups.

The Nusra Front has fashioned itself as an important partner in the uprising against Syrian President Bashar Assad. Unlike ISIS, which imposes harsh Islamic laws soon after it forcefully seizes territory, the Nusra Front has generally been slower to crack down on civilian populations.

The jihadists are waiting for Syrians to slowly come around to the idea of Islamic rule, which lowers the chance of a successful uprising if the Nusra Front is able to establish Syria as an Islamic emirate.

"This is all the long game," Thomas Joscelyn, an Al Qaeda expert and senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, told Business Insider. "The concept of jihad and the notion of jihad as [Al Qaeda] understands it was missing in Syria for decades. Their whole idea is to use the war to inculcate the ideology of jihad among the population, which is a slow process."

Civil war has been dragging on in Syria for the past five years as Assad fights to hold on to power. Moderate rebels, whose main focus is on defeating Assad, are struggling to make gains as they face onslaughts from the regime and jihadist groups like the Nusra Front.

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And ultimately, the jihadist groups who want to see Syria governed by Islamic law hope to be the last ones standing. Western experts charge that the Nusra Front has maintained a tacit coordination with moderate rebels in some areas of Syria, but that might now be crumbling as the jihadists turn on the rebels.

Last week, the Nusra Front attacked Division 13, a US-backed group that's affiliated with the Free Syrian Army, killing about a dozen rebels and arresting several more.

Syria control map

In a note last week, strategic-security firm The Soufan Group explained why this is significant:

On March 11, people in Maarrat al-Numan gathered to peacefully protest the Assad regime, able to do so only because of a ceasefire [between the regime and the opposition]. Many waved the flag of the revolution. Jabhat al-Nusra fighters, opposed to any flag other than their own, stormed into the crowd and assaulted civilians. In doing so, the group shed its mask of revolutionary solidarity and revealed its true extremist nature.

"Nusra's stated goal throughout all of Syria from when they first started until today is to turn Syria into an Islamic emirate," Ahmad al-Soud, the commander and founder of Division 13, told Business Insider through a translator on Friday. "They don't want any other armed group in Syria except for them, and they want to turn it into kind of what Afghanistan was under the Taliban."

Defeating moderate rebels and the regime is the first step, and then the Nusra Front will face other jihadist groups like ISIS.

"Once they ... get rid of all the other groups, [the Nusra Front] can finally duke it out between them and ISIS for who's the worst," Soud said.

Free Syrian Army Idlib

Jennifer Cafarella, a Syria analyst at the Institute for the Study of War, laid out the Nusra Front's strategy in an op-ed for CNN:

Jabhat al-Nusra is leveraging its battlefield contributions to create relationships with civil society, civilian populations and other Syrian opposition groups. It then manipulates those relationships in order to achieve dominance. And it directly targets US-backed groups, and defeats them when it can, in order to ensure that moderate forces do not find footing in a new Syria.

Soud denied any coordination with the Nusra Front. But he did acknowledge that some Syrians had initially accepted the Nusra Front as a partner in fighting the Assad regime.

"The most important thing is that the world understands that the Syrian people reject Al Qaeda's ideology," Soud said. "We reluctantly allowed Nusra into Syria because our main enemy is the regime. After the regime is gone, we will continue to fight anybody who tries to implement their will against the people."

As long as Assad remains a player on the Syrian battlefield, moderate rebels will face a stalemate of sorts  because they're fighting jihadists and the regime, their already-scant resources will be spread too thin for them to win out over anyone.

"As long as the Assad regime is still around, you're still going to have different extremist groups in Syria and they're not going to leave, we're not going to be able to get them out," Soud said. "We can't fight on all these different fronts against the regime and against ISIS and against Nusra."

Nusra Idlib Syria

What this means for the US

The Nusra Front's end goals aren't confined to Syria.

A January report from the Institute for the Study of War and the American Enterprise Institute concluded that the US is dangerously underestimating the Nusra Front, which it says could become even more of a threat to the long-term security of the US than ISIS.

The report stated that the Nusra Front posed "one of the most significant long-term threats" of any jihadist group.

"This Al Qaeda affiliate has established an expansive network of partnerships with local opposition groups that have grown either dependent on or fiercely loyal to the organization," the report said. "Its defeat and destruction must be one of the highest priorities of any strategy to defend the United States and Europe from Al Qaeda attacks."

Cafarella, one of the coauthors of the report, wrote in her CNN op-ed that America's focus on defeating ISIS "has played directly into the group's hands, allowing the group to exploit its time out of the spotlight and set up a return to the global stage once ISIS is defeated."

Syrian civilians are fighting back against the Nusra Front in some areas, but it's unclear how long they can hold out if the Assad regime keeps bombing rebel-held areas and ISIS continues its brutal rule.

Moderate rebels are in many cases outmatched when they go up against jihadists and the Assad regime, which have more funding and resources coming in from outside donors or, in the case of the regime, allies like Russia and Iran.

"A group like Division 13 doesn't have a national program," said Joscelyn, the Al Qaeda expert. "The FSA doesn't have a national program, so they weren't going to govern all of Idlib."

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BEIJING (Reuters) - China wants to have deeper internet security, anti-terrorism and corruption cooperation with the United States, Chinese security officials told the visiting director of the FBI, state news agency Xinhua said. Meeting in Beijing, Public Security Minister Guo Shengkun, told James B. Comey that China was willing to enhance strategic mutual trust and the respect of each others core interests, Xinhua said late on Monday. The two countries should "deepen law enforcement and security cooperation in the fields of internet security and counter-terrorism", the report paraphrased Guo as saying. Comey said the Federal Bureau of Investigation was willing to push forward pragmatic cooperation, Xinhua said. The report did not elaborate. Hacking has been a sore spot in U.S.-China relations. In September, President Barack Obama said he and Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed that neither government would knowingly support cyber theft of corporate secrets to support domestic businesses. China has also been seeking more counter-terrorism cooperation with Western countries, which the West has generally been unwilling to give, fearful of complicity in possible human rights abuses in China. China has blamed Islamist militants for violence in its far western region of Xinjiang, where hundreds have been killed in the last few years. Rights groups and exiles say the problem stems more from anger at Chinese controls on the religion and culture of the Muslim Uighur people who call Xinjiang home, rather than from any cohesive militant group. China strongly denies any rights abuses in Xinjiang or elsewhere. In a separate report on Tuesday, Xinhua cited domestic security chief Meng Jianzhu as telling Comey that China also wants more cooperation on recovering corrupt officials who have fled overseas, and their assets. The report also did not elaborate. Last year, China pursued and brought home more than 600 suspected corrupt officials in a strategy dubbed "Operation Fox Hunt", as it widens a crackdown on deep-rooted graft launched by President Xi Jinping upon becoming Communist Party chief in late 2012. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore and Nick Macfie)
Ted Cruz.

Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz spent the past week doing what was recently considered to be impossible: consolidating support from his party's establishment.

The list of people who have endorsed Cruz now includes Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee; Jeb Bush, the ex-2016 GOP frontrunner; and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.

Establishment-oriented Republicans are rushing to rally around Cruz, who is increasingly viewed as the only option Republicans have left to stop GOP frontrunner Donald Trump in his tracks.

That is a stunning development to party operatives almost a year after Cruz entered the presidential race as a pugnacious outsider. Among other things, Cruz infuriated the Washington establishment by embracing government-shutdown fights.

When discussing Cruz late last year, former President George W. Bush reportedly said he didn't "like the guy." Cruz worked on President Bush's 2000 campaign and held a position within his administration.

Graham, meanwhile, passed his support on to Cruz rather begrudgingly: He acknowledged that he thought the third remaining Republican candidate, Gov. John Kasich of Ohio, would be the best president but couldn't defeat Trump. Weeks ago, Graham joked that if Cruz were killed on the Senate floor, nobody would testify against his killer.

Romney, the figurehead of the "never Trump" movement, previously sent robocalls on behalf of Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida and Kasich. He even held an event with Kasich before the Ohio primary.

"It's an incredible circumstance. It's unfathomable, unthinkable," GOP strategist Matt Mackowiak, the founder of the Potomac Strategy Group, told Business Insider.

"He's the establishment's 16th favorite candidate," he continued, referring to the lengthy list of GOP candidates originally in the race. "Just so happens the 17th is Trump  and there's a big gap in between them."

Donald Trump Ted Cruz

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It wasn't very long ago that Trump's reputation as a dealmaker appealed more to establishment types than Cruz's hardline, confrontational approach. In late January, Bob Dole, the former Kansas senator and 1996 GOP presidential nominee, made a point to say he wouldn't vote for Cruz and that in Congress "nobody likes him."

In contrast, Dole told The New York Times that Trump could "probably work with Congress, because he's, you know, he's got the right personality and he's kind of a dealmaker."

Gov. Terry Branstad of Iowa practically begged his constituents not to vote for Cruz in the Iowa caucuses. He called Cruz a "big oil" candidate who didn't have their energy interests in mind. He had no such message for voters about Trump.

But over the past two months, Mackowiak said, Cruz suddenly became much more palatable to a wider range of Republicans. The push is coming weeks before the crucial primary in Wisconsin, a key state in the anti-Trump effort.

"There's a real sense that a large cross section of Republicans are seeing what a disaster Trump would be," he said. "Pretty unprofessional campaign he's running, total lack of discipline. Cruz is better than people thought he'd be, and Trump is a lot worse. And Cruz has made up a lot of ground."

Polls have lent some credence to that theory. Recent surveys have shown that Cruz is bringing aboard some Republicans outside the ultra-conservative wing that has made up his staunchest support base.

When comparing the past two national Fox News polls  one released in mid-February and the other released last week  Cruz's growth in support was more than twice that of Kasich and almost four times that of Trump. The numbers suggested that Cruz was most able to benefit from other candidates' exits from the race.

"Kasich has as good of a chance as me," Mackowiak said. "You're not going to nominate someone who lost 49 states. That's why you're seeing guys ignore Kasich and go with Cruz. Endorsing Cruz doesn't mean he's their first choice  he's their choice at this point. If Lindsey Graham can get over it, anyone can."

Ted Cruz Donald Trump

Mackowiak said Cruz had started to broaden his message to appeal beyond the more extreme wings of the base. He added, however, that "it's not a natural thing for him, so I think it'll take some work."

But as has been the case for most of the primary season, the anti-Trump establishment faces a clear uphill battle.

Cruz needs to win nearly 80% of the delegates throughout the rest of the primary season to get to 1,237 delegates, the number needed to clinch the nomination. Trump, on the other hand, needs just about 50%. If neither candidate reaches that level, the fight could play out on the floor of the Republican National Convention this summer.

But the Republican primary continues to play out in unprecedented ways. The wildest part of the past week, Mackowiak said, was that establishment types were shunning the most likely nominee and instead aligning themselves with Cruz.

"The instinct is to go with the winner, because you have to be on the winning team to have some influence," he said of Trump. "He's losing support from people that like to go with winners and like to cut deals."

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By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS (Reuters) - When Brussels police caught Salah Abdeslam, suspected sole survivor of Novembers suicide assault on Paris, they knew they were in a race against time to stop a new Islamic State attack. It was the afternoon of Friday, March 18, and one of Prime Minister Charles Michel's cabinet ministers tweeted "We got him!" after Europes most wanted man was seized at a house in the capital's Molenbeek neighbourhood. But Michel was worried, according to a government official who was present at the time. The premier raced to his crisis command centre from a European summit nearby. Security forces had orders to increase vigilance but lacked intelligence to justify a citywide lockdown such as Michel imposed after the Paris attacks. "Our first thought was that ... this will set off a ferocious response," the aide told Reuters, speaking on condition that he not be named. Those fears were well founded. The suicide bombings of Brussels airport and a metro train that killed 28 bystanders laid bare the inability of the Belgian authorities to counter Islamic State militants, no matter how high the level of alert. Missed connections, leads not followed and suspects let slip have exposed deficiencies in security services. They have also shown how Europe's Syrian-trained Islamist cells can react with deadly speed to events such as Abdeslam's arrest. "It was a race against time," said Vincent Gilles, head of Belgium's main police trade union SLFP. But with the intelligence service understaffed - by some estimates by about half the level for other rich European states - it was a race the authorities could not win. YEAR ON ALERT Belgium is, for its size, the biggest European supplier of foreign fighters in Syria. Islamic State has appealed to an alienated generation descended from mostly Moroccan immigrants of the 1960s. Belgian authorities stepped up their searches for activists after January 2015. That month, days after the bloodshed at Paris magazine Charlie Hebdo, Belgian police foiled a plot in the town of Verviers that revealed an Islamic State campaign to send some of the 300 or more young Belgians who have fought in Syria back to Europe to strike on their native soil. In Verviers, police killed two men who returned from Syria with Abdelhamid Abaaoud. Killed in a shootout in Paris days after the attacks there, he emerged as "the spider in the web", in the words of a Belgian minister, of an extensive network. Yet though Belgian authorities questioned numerous contacts of Abaaoud, notably from his old Molenbeek neighbourhood, the trail went cold. Among those interrogated and released were Salah Abdeslam and his brother Brahim. In the first half of 2015, Belgian courts convicted dozens of radical preachers and their followers for recruiting for Syria. But new cells were forming elsewhere. Last summer, the Abdeslams, petty drug dealers who ran a Molenbeek bar, put together what Salah has since told interrogators was a logistical plan to prepare for the attacks on Paris. Salah drove across Europe more than once and appears to have transported quantities of guns, explosives and people. It was with shock, after 130 people died on a Friday evening in the French capital and trails led back to Brussels, that Michel's government realised it had an urgent problem. He locked down transport and public spaces for days as he was near "100 percent certain" of a threat. At the centre of those fears was Salah Abdeslam, whose brother had blown himself up at a Paris cafe. Abdeslam had slipped back across the Belgian border ahead of a French dragnet. The morning after Paris, he went to ground in Brussels. NEW RESOURCES, TOO LATE Michel pledged cash and legal reforms to beef up a security system that officials accepted was understaffed. An intelligence service of about 700 staff for a country of 11 million struggled to cope, as did a police force that is about 20 percent below full strength. Police and security services have also struggled with a lack of communication and coordination across a multiplicity of departments that cross Belgium's Dutch-French language divide. Two of Tuesday's suicide bombers - Najim Laachraoui and Khalid El Bakraoui - were on counter-terrorism watchlists. The former was a suspected bombmaker for the Paris attacks; the latter rented a safe house for the Paris cell and the flat where police picked up Abdeslam's trail. Bakraoui's brother Brahim, was a convicted armed robber in breach of his parole who was expelled last July from Turkey. Ankara warned Belgium he had been caught trying to reach Syria. In December, police in the town of Mechelen had a tip about a family sheltering Abdeslam. The tip included the address where he was eventually apprehended. But officials acknowledge the tip was never passed on to Brussels colleagues. The revelation has led to criticism - strongly denied - that Mechelen's town hall might prefer to suppress a tip to avoid irritating local Muslims, a key electoral constituency. In their four-month search for Abdeslam, police pulled in dozens of people, holding 10 by last month. Dozens of homes were raided to no avail. Police reject suggestions it was chance that led them to a house in the Brussels borough of Forest on March 15. Four officers were wounded in a shootout before one gunman was killed. The apartment, rented under a false name by Khalid El Bakraoui, the Brussels metro bomber, yielded a fingerprint belonging to Salah Abdeslam. Police homed in on a cellphone he was using, leading to his capture three days later. THREE DAYS OF FEAR Over the three and half days following that arrest, the government considered locking down Brussels but decided against it because they had no clear clues that an attack was in the offing, the government official said. When the bombers struck at the morning rush hour on Tuesday, the authorities tried to moved fast. A taxi driver who took the bombers to the airport led police to the apartment where he had picked them up. That produced a evidence including chemicals and another bomb. One report said the bombers left it behind after a confused taxi dispatcher sent a smaller cab than they ordered. It also produced a witness who, investigators say, has since identified a third man seen on airport cameras with the two bombers. Police have been rolling up contacts and acquaintances of those identified, including another suspected plotter in Paris. Michels government is also cracking down on fake documents which seem to have allowed the likes of Laachraoui and Abaaoud, to slip across Europe from Syria. The government has sought new legal powers over, and in cooperation with, Internet and telecoms firms to track suspects. But officials caution that it could take years to fill the gaps in the security structures of a country that is host to the European Union and NATO. So it was with a note of resignation that Belgium's leaders reacted to the worst bloodshed in their country since World War Two: Michel declared simply: "What we feared, has happened." (Additional reporting by Ingrid Melander; Editing by Alessandra Galloni/Janet McBride)
ASTANA (Reuters) - Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev's Nur Otan party won 82 percent of the vote in Sunday's snap parliamentary election criticized by Western observers as falling short of democratic standards, preliminary figures showed on Monday. Nazarbayev, 75, congratulated his party at a "victors' forum" event in Astana where he walked triumphantly to the stage as thousands of youths dressed in his party's blue and yellow colors chanted: "Nursultan! Nur Otan!" "This is a great accomplishment of our democracy," he said. The election could open the door for Nazarbayev's daughter Dariga to enter parliament under a party list, a move that would fuel speculation about her as a possible future leader. The result is unlikely to surprise anyone in the oil-rich Central Asian nation Nazarbayev has run since 1989, brooking little dissent. It has never held an election judged free and fair by Western observers. Observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe said the vote had fallen short of commitments for democratic elections. "It is clear that Kazakhstan still has a long way to go towards fulfilling its election commitments, although some progress was noted," Marietta Tidei, OSCE Special Co-ordinator for the election observation, told reporters. "The ruling party had a clear advantage over others in these elections, and while the parties were generally able to campaign freely, genuine political choice remains insufficient." DAUGHTER DARIGA Nazarbayev called the vote in January, apparently favoring an early election in case the economy, hit hard by the slump in the price of oil, were to worsen in the course of the year. The Central Election Commission said two other parties, the Communists and Ak Zhol, had passed the 7 percent threshold needed to win seats, meaning that the lower house, the Mazhilis, will include the same three parties as before. Three other parties, the Social Democrats - who denounced the poll as rigged - as well as Birlik (Unity) and Auyl (Village), won less than 7 percent each. Still unclear is the makeup of Nur Otan's faction, as it has a list of 127 candidates vying for places in the 107-seat Mazhilis. Observers are focusing, in particular, on the president's daughter, Dariga Nazarbayeva, who is deputy prime minister and also on the party list as a candidate. Her potential move to parliament, where she could become the speaker of the lower house, would be interpreted as a step towards an eventual transition of power to her. Nazarbayev said on Sunday the vote was unlikely to result in a major reshuffle of cabinet ministers. (Reporting by Raushan Nurshayeva; Writing by Olzhas Auyezov; Editing by Ralph Boulton)
By John Irish, Lesley Wroughton and Lisa Barrington GENEVA/MOSCOW/BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian troops backed by Russian air support fought their way into the Islamic State-held city of Palmyra on Thursday, their biggest offensive yet against the jihadist caliphate, as Moscow and Washington discussed how to help to end the civil war. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow in an atmosphere that was noticeably more amiable than past meetings, reflecting new diplomacy the two Cold War superpowers have championed in recent weeks. Both men expressed hope for more progress toward ending the fighting. In Geneva, where the first peace talks involving President Bashar al-Assad's government and his foes began this month, the opposing sides were expected to sign on to a U.N. document reflecting some initial common ground. The aim was to move toward discussing the divisive question of a political transition in Syria when the talks resume next month. Moscow is the main ally of Assad's government, while Washington and other Western countries have backed foes trying to overthrow him during five years of civil war that has killed 250,000 people and led to the world's worst refugee crisis. Both superpowers share a common enemy in Islamic State, the Sunni Muslim fighters who have declared a caliphate to rule over all Muslims from territory in Syria and Iraq. After Russia intervened with air strikes to shore up Assad last year, Washington and Moscow have jointly sponsored a peace process that has produced the first sustained ceasefire of the war and the first negotiations involving the warring parties. "The serious approach that we have been able to cooperate on has made a difference to the life of people in Syria and to the possibilities of making progress on peace," Kerry said at the start of talks with Putin in Moscow. "The people of Syria and the people of the region have as a result been able to taste and smell the possibilities of what it means to have a huge reduction of violence and receive humanitarian assistance." Putin, who has announced he is winding down Russia's military involvement in Syria, even offered warm words for U.S. President Barack Obama, with whom his relations have sunk to a Cold War-era level of hostility since Washington imposed sanctions on Russia over its intervention in Ukraine in 2014. "We understand that what we have been able to achieve on Syria has been possible only thanks to the position of the U.S. top political leadership, President Obama," Putin said at his meeting with Kerry. "I very much hope that your visit will allow us to bring our positions closer on moving forward to solve the Syrian crisis and ... on Ukraine." The U.S. and Russian-sponsored ceasefire between Assad's government and his enemies does not cover Islamic State, allowing Damascus to ramp up its fight against the jihadists. After months in which the West accused Moscow of helping Assad fight mainly against other foes, Damascus has launched a major offensive this month to take back Palmyra, which the fighters seized in their biggest Syrian offensive of last year. The state-run news channel Ikhbariya broadcast images from just outside Palmyra on Thursday and said government fighters had taken over a hotel district in the west. The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the army had advanced into the hotel district just to the southwest of the city and reached a residential area, after a rapid advance the day before brought the army and its allies right up to its outskirts. Palmyra has some of the most extensive ruins of the ancient Roman empire, some of which were dynamited by Islamic State in what the United Nations calls a war crime. BABY STEP The peace talks in Geneva were due to be adjourned on Thursday until next month, with the sides expected to agree to a document drawn up by a U.N. special envoy outlining basic principles, in what one diplomat called a "baby step" forward. The sides still have yet to address the biggest challenge: the nature of a post-war "political transition". Opposition leaders say Assad must leave power; the government says this is not up for negotiation. Washington believes that Moscow, closely allied to Assad, can nudge Damascus to make concessions. Before political talks can begin, U.N. envoy Staffan de Mistura aims to establish if there are points held in common by the different parties and announce them. "Basic principles have been laid out. De Mistura wants to announce that all sides have agreed so that he can move on to the transition issue at the next round," said a senior Western diplomat. "It's a baby step, but a necessary step. It's not a bad result." De Mistura said later that in the next round of talks "we have to start focusing on the political process". A summary of the document seen by Reuters contains points including reforming state institutions, rejecting terrorism unequivocally and implementing United Nations Security Council resolution 2254 that guarantees a political transition of power. It also calls for no tolerance of acts of revenge from either side, rebuilding the Syrian army on national criteria, ensuring a democratic non-sectarian state and preserving womens rights in fair representation. BATTLE FOR PALMYRA The capture of Palmrya and further eastward advances would mark the most significant Syrian government gain against Islamic State since the start of Russia's military intervention last September. Islamic State has lost territory in both Iraq and Syria since last year when it captured Palmyra in Syria and Ramadi, a provincial capital in Iraq. A soldier interviewed by Ikhbariya TV said the army and its allies would press forward beyond Palmyra. "We say to those gunmen, we are advancing to Palmyra, and to what's beyond Palmyra, and God willing to Raqqa, the center of the Daesh gangs," he said, referring to Islamic State's de facto capital in northern Syria. The Syrian state news agency SANA showed warplanes flying overhead, helicopters firing missiles, and soldiers and armored vehicles approaching the city. The U.S.-led military coalition against Islamic State said it had also struck targets in and around Palmyra, a rare example of the U.S.-led force attacking an area also under attack by Russian-backed government forces. Russia's Defence Ministry said on Thursday it had carried out 41 sorties between March 20-23 in the region of Palmyra, attacking 146 "terrorist targets." (Reporting by Tom Miles, Stephanie Nebehay, Suleiman Al-Khalidi, Maria Tsvetkova, John Davison and Dominic Evans; writing by Peter Graff and Peter Millership; editing by Giles Elgood)
By Mehreen Zahra-Malik and Mubasher Bukhari LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan has decided to launch a paramilitary crackdown on Islamist militants in Punjab, the country's richest and most populous province, after an Easter Day bombing killed 70 people in the provincial capital Lahore, officials said on Monday. Sunday's suicide bombing at a public park was claimed by the Pakistani Taliban's Jamaat-ur-Ahrar faction, which once declared loyalty to Islamic State. The group said it was targeting Christians. The brutality of the attack, Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's fifth bombing since December, reflects the movement's attempts to raise its profile among Pakistan's increasingly fractured Islamist militants. At least 29 children enjoying an Easter weekend outing were among those killed when the suicide bomber struck in a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the power base of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has a Christian population of more than two million. Pope Francis condemned the attack as "hideous" and demanded that Pakistani authorities protect religious minorities. It was Pakistan's deadliest attack since the December 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military-run academy in the city of Peshawar that prompted a government crackdown on Islamist militancy. Security and government officials told Reuters the decision had been made to launch a full-scale operation involving the paramilitary Rangers, who would have powers to conduct raids and interrogate suspects in the same way as they have been doing in the southern city of Karachi for more than two years. The move, which has not yet been formally announced, represents the civilian government once again granting special powers to the military to fight Islamist militants. "The technicalities are yet to be worked out. There are some legal issues also with bringing in Rangers, but the military and government are on the same page," said one senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to share details of the plan. One other military official and two government officials confirmed the decision on condition of anonymity. "The PM ordered a joint operation of the counter-terrorism department and Rangers in the border areas of Punjab against terrorists and their facilitators," said one government official who attended a meeting with Sharif and Punjab officials on Monday. The move is likely to be controversial in Punjab. In Karachi, the Rangers' crackdown has drawn accusations of human rights abuses and the targeting of opposition politicians, though the rate of militant and criminal violence has dropped sharply since the paramilitary force arrived. Sharif's own party has long opposed any militarised operation against militants in its Punjab heartland. "FAILURE IS THEIR FATE" Military spokesman Gen. Asim Bajwa said intelligence agencies, the army and Rangers had already launched several raids around Punjab following the attack, arresting an unspecified number of suspects and recovering arms caches. Sharif visited the wounded in hospitals and described the attackers as a "coward enemy trying for soft targets". "Terrorists should know that failure is their fate," he said in a television address to the nation, vowing to crush them. Claiming responsibility on Sunday for the attack on behalf of Jamaat-ur-Ahrar, spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan issued a direct challenge to the government: "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore." Rescue services spokeswoman Deeba Shahnaz said at least 29 children, seven women and 34 men had been killed and about 340 people wounded, with 25 in serious condition. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar has claimed responsibility for several big attacks since it split from the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. While it mostly focuses attacks in its base of the northwestern Mohmand tribal area, it has previously carried out at least two major attacks in Lahore: one in 2015 that targeted two Christian churches and another at the Wagah border between India and Pakistan in late 2014. Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence since it joined a U.S.-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States. While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also been attacked. Security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under an earlier crackdown launched after the 2014 Peshawar school massacre. Militant violence eased, but groups retain the ability to launch devastating attacks. Most militants, like the Pakistani Taliban, want to topple the government and introduce a strict version of Islamic law. (Additional reporting by Asad Hashim.; Writing by Asad Hashim and Kay Johnson.; Editing by Nick Macfie and Gareth Jones)
The only suspect charged with murder over last week's Brussels attacks has been released due to a lack of evidence, Belgian prosecutors say.

Faycal Cheffou, an independent journalist, was widely reported to be the third individual in CCTV footage of suspects at Brussels airport.

He was charged with terrorist murder after 35 people, excluding the bombers, were killed in the suicide bombings.

But a prosecutor's statement read: "The indications that led to the arrest of Faycal C were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry.

"As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate."

The announcement is a major blow to an investigation that has netted half a dozen people charged with lesser offences.

Earlier on Monday, police had issued an appeal for witnesses, saying they were seeking to identify the man caught on CCTV at the airport.

:: Who Are The Brussels Bombers And Other Suspects?

In the video, the hat-wearing suspect, wearing white, appears to smile as he glances over and says something to his alleged accomplices.

The accomplices - suicide bombers Ibrahim el Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui - blew themselves up in the atrocity.

But police say the third man appeared to have left his bomb, which failed to explode, and fled.

Security officials did not name the suspect in the hat, but many Belgian media reports suggested he was Faycal Cheffou.

However, that now appears to be unlikely.

Cheffou reportedly acted as a co-ordinator of aid for refugees arriving in Maximilian Park in Brussels last year.

The developments came as a victim of the airport bombing said there should be no backlash against Muslims.

Walter Benjamin has had a leg amputated since he was blown across Zaventem airport by two huge blasts.

He warned that ordinary Muslims should not be held responsible, hours after far-right protesters hijacked a peace protest in the centre of Brussels.

He told RTL: "I hope people will be smart enough to understand that 99.99% of the Muslim population is extraordinary and does not get involved (with extremism).

"Twenty or 30 people don't represent an entire community."
By Lawrence Hurley WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected flamboyant former two-term Democratic Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevichs appeal of convictions on corruption charges including attempted extortion from campaign contributors, wire fraud and other crimes. The court left in place last July's ruling by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upholding the bulk of the convictions. Blagojevich began serving a 14-year prison sentence in 2012. Prosecutors said Blagojevich was at the center of a conspiracy to seek cash, campaign contributions and jobs for himself and others in exchange for state appointments, state business, legislation and pension fund investments. Among those actions were attempts to leverage his authority as governor to appoint a U.S. senator from Illinois when Barack Obama left his Senate seat after being elected president in 2008, prosecutors said. Patti Blagojevich, the former governor's wife, expressed disappointment with the court's action. "We are hopeful that after the governor is resentenced, as a result of a federal appeals court tossing out five of the counts against him, that the highest court may be moved to take the case then," she said in a statement released by a spokesman. "This was, of course, not the outcome that Rod, our daughters Amy and Annie, had hoped and prayed for. But we continue to have faith in the system." Blagojevich, first elected in 2002, was arrested in 2008 while still governor and was impeached by the state's General Assembly in 2009, becoming the first Illinois governor to be removed from office. His 18 convictions, five of which were thrown out by the appeals court, came in two jury trials. From the time of his arrest until his conviction, Blagojevich launched a national campaign to proclaim his innocence, appearing on television shows including Donald Trump's program "Celebrity Apprentice." Blagojevich was caught on court-approved wiretaps describing the Senate seat as something so valuable "you just don't give it away for nothing." Blagojevich added he might appoint himself if he could not get anything for the seat. He was known for his love of Elvis Presley, his tendency to quote poetry and his full head of carefully tended thick black hair. He was criticized while in office for rarely being in the state capital of Springfield, and letting legislation stall. Blagojevich was the fourth former Illinois governor to be convicted of criminal charges since 1973. The case is Blagojevich v. United States, U.S. Supreme Court, No. 15-664. (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Additional reporting by Ben Klayman; Editing by Will Dunham)
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian soldiers and their allies advanced to within 1 km (half a mile) of Palmyra on Thursday and soldiers speaking from the outskirts of the historic city said they hoped to recapture it from Islamic State fighters within hours. The Syrian army is trying to retake Palmyra, which the ultra-hardline Islamist militants seized in May, to open a road to the mostly IS-held eastern province of Deir al-Zor. The recapture of the desert city would be one of the most prominent successes for President Bashar al-Assad since Russia launched a military intervention in September which turned the tide of Syria's civil war in his favor. Palmyra is the site of ancient Roman-era temples and colonnades - many of them destroyed by the militants - as well as being a strategic link between the west and east of Syria. "We are 850 meters from Palmyra city. In a few hours(government) forces will declare the city of Palmyra completely secure, God willing," one soldier told Ikhbariya television channel, in comments echoed by his comrades on the front. One of the soldiers said they had cleared around 120 explosives from the 'Palmyra Triangle' road junction area as they approached the city from the west. Syrian television quoted the field commander as saying the road into Palmyra was now open to government forces after they took control of hills overlooking its approaches. Earlier, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitoring group reported clashes on the outskirts of the city as government forces, backed by Russian and Syrian warplanes, made advances. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said last week he was withdrawing most Russian forces, predicted on Thursday that the Syrian army would retake Palmyra soon. (Reporting by Dominic Evans and John Davison; Editing by Angus MacSwan and Hugh Lawson)
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian government forces fought their way into Palmyra on Thursday as the army backed by Russian air cover sought to recapture the historic city from Islamic State (IS) insurgents, Syrian state TV and a monitoring group said. The Syrian army earlier this month launched a concerted offensive to retake Palmyra, which the ultra-hardline Islamist militants seized in May 2015, to open a road to the mostly IS-held eastern province of Deir al-Zor. Islamic State has blown up ancient temples and tombs since capturing Palmyra, something the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO has called a war crime. The city, located at a crossroads in central Syria, is surrounded mostly by desert. The state-run news channel Ikhbariya broadcast images from just outside Palmyra on Thursday and said government fighters had taken over a hotel district in the west. The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the army had advanced into the hotel district just to the southwest of the city and reached the start of a residential area, after a rapid advance the day before brought the army and its allies right up to its outskirts. Syrian forces have also made gains to the north of the city, state media and the Observatory said. A soldier interviewed by Ikhbariya said the army and its allies would press forward beyond Palmyra. "We say to those gunmen, we are advancing to Palmyra, and to what's beyond Palmyra, and God willing to Raqqa, the center of the Daesh gangs," he said, referring to Islamic State's de facto capital in northern Syria. The state news agency SANA showed warplanes flying overhead, helicopters firing missiles, and soldiers and armored vehicles approaching Palmyra. SANA also said that the Syrian army was dismantling bombs and mines laid around Palmyra. Civilians began fleeing after Islamic State fighters told them via loudspeakers to leave the center as fighting drew closer, the Observatory said. The Observatory monitors the war using a network of sources on the ground. COALITION STRIKES The capture of Palmyra and advances further eastwards into Deir al-Zor would mark the most significant Syrian government gain against Islamic State since the start of Russia's military intervention last September. With Russia's help, Damascus has already taken back some ground from IS, notably east of Aleppo, Syria's biggest city and commercial hub before the war. A U.S.-led coalition, which is conducting air strikes in Syria and Iraq against IS, said it hit IS targets near Palmyra on Wednesday. This was the first coalition strike in the Palmyra area since March 4, around the time Syria began an offensive to take back Palmyra. Before that there were two strikes at the end of January. IS took over Palmyra in May and between July 1 and March 5 the coalition conducted 15 strikes in and around Palmyra, according to data collated by Reuters from the Combined Joint Task Force. "Since September 2014 the coalition has conducted over 3,650 air strikes in Syria. Many of those strikes have directly supported counter-(IS) forces in Syria," said a U.S. Defense Department spokesman. "There is no U.S. military or Coalition cooperation with either the Assad government nor the Russians." (Reporting by Lisa Barrington, John Davison and Dominic Evans in Beirut, and David Alexander in Washington; Editing by Ralph Boulton)
Donald Trump has claimed Britain and Europe are "not safe places" following recent terrorist attacks.

The front runner for the Republican presidential nomination made the comments five days after the Brussels bombings, which killed at least 35 people.

The property tycoon said Europe had lots of "very, very severe" problems and added he did not even think America was a safe place for Americans.

Mr Trump told ABC: "I don't think Bruss - England or I don't think that Europe is a safe place. No, I don't.

"I think there are a lot of problems in Europe that are very, very severe.

"When you look at Brussels, when you look at the way they've handled things from law enforcement standpoints, when you look at Paris, when you look at so many other places, no, it's not (safe)."

US Secretary of State John Kerry echoed the comments, telling CBS's Face The Nation US citizens should "avoid a crowded place" if they were travelling in Europe, because "you have no control over who may be there".

Mr Trump was mocked last year for his comments on "no-go" areas in London, when he claimed some areas of the city were "so radicalised that the police are afraid for their own lives".

He also caused controversy earlier this week, when he said British Muslims are not reporting suspicious activity by extremists to the authorities.

The billionaire businessman's latest remarks came as Belgian officials completed their initial investigation at Brussels International Airport and found the main building to be stable.

Airport officials are now discussing plans to install temporary check-in desks, but in a statement the airport said that the process of identifying a suitable location was still being carried out in consultation with airlines and luggage handlers.
By James Oliphant WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The feud between Republican presidential contenders Donald Trump and Ted Cruz over their spouses heated up on Thursday, with Cruz calling the party front-runner "a sniveling coward" for threatening his wife on Twitter. The senator from Texas also sharpened his attacks on Trump's conservative credentials, linking the brash billionaire to disgraced New York politicians Eliot Spitzer and Anthony Weiner. Cruz continued bashing Trump for making Cruz's wife, Heidi, a target of social-media barbs. I have to say, seeing him go deeper and deeper into the gutter, its not easy to tick me off," Cruz said at a news conference while campaigning in Dane, Wisconsin. "But you mess with my wife, you mess with my kids, itll do it every time. "Donald, youre a sniveling coward," Cruz said. "Leave Heidi the hell alone. Cruz's remarks were the latest burst of hostility between the two camps, which earlier this week erupted into full view when Trump accused Cruz of posting a nude photo of Melania Trump on Twitter. Trump responded by threatening to "spill the beans" on Cruz's wife, Heidi. Cruz denied having anything to do with the image, which was part of an attack by an anti-Trump Super PAC, Make America Awesome. "Donald, real men don't attack women. Your wife is lovely, and Heidi is the love of my life," Cruz said in a post on Twitter earlier on Thursday. Cruz's tweet followed one moments earlier by Trump in which he retweeted an image featuring a less-than-flattering picture of Heidi Cruz juxtaposed with a glamorous photo of Melania. The back-and-forth was too much for Senator Lindsey Graham, a former presidential candidate, who blasted both men in an interview on NBC's "Today" show on Thursday. "Talk about things that people really care about, and knock this crap off because these are serious times, and you're not behaving like you want to be president of the United States," he said. For Trump, attacking another candidate's wife may carry some political risk. Half of U.S. women say they have a "very unfavorable" view of the billionaire businessman, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling in March. Cruz fared better, with 24 percent of the 5,000 women surveyed saying they had a "very unfavorable" view of him. The Democratic front-runner, Hillary Clinton, did worse than Cruz but better than Trump, with 36 percent of women polled saying they had a "very unfavorable" view of her. The poll had a credibility interval of 2 percentage points. Also on Thursday, Cruz began to press Trump on his history of supporting Democratic politicians in New York, which holds its Republican primary on April 19. And while Manhattan is home to Trump's business empire, Cruz spent time there this week campaigning. In media releases and social-media postings, Cruz highlighted Trump's history of donating not only to Spitzer, New York's former governor who resigned amid a prostitution scandal, and Weiner, the former U.S. congressman who quit after tweeting lewd images of himself, but also to other New York liberals such as U.S. Representative Charles Rangel, Senator Chuck Schumer, and New York's current governor, Andrew Cuomo. The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment, but Trump posted an Instagram video that showed former Republican presidential candidates Carly Fiorina and Graham expressing doubts about Cruz earlier in the campaign. Both have since endorsed Cruz, saying he is in the best position to halt Trump's march toward the nomination. Both Trump and Cruz are trying to garner enough delegates to win the Republican nomination ahead of the party's convention this summer. After Tuesday's contests in Arizona and Utah, Trump had 739 of the 1,237 delegates needed to win the nomination, according to The Associated Press. Cruz had 465. Polls show Trump leading in New York ahead of its primary. And there were also indications on Thursday of Trump's strength in California, where many observers believe he could clinch the nomination by winning its primary on June 7. A new survey by the Public Policy Institute of California found that among likely Republican primary voters, Trump led with 38 percent to 27 percent for Cruz and 14 percent for Ohio Governor John Kasich. The next Republican contests will be on April 5 in Wisconsin and on April 9 in Wyoming. (Reporting by Alana Wise, Steve Holland, Megan Cassella, and Susan Heavey.; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Andrew Hay)
By John Whitesides WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump said on Tuesday the United States should use waterboarding and other harsh interrogation techniques when questioning terror suspects, and renewed his call for tougher U.S. border security after the attacks in Brussels. The billionaire businessman said authorities "should be able to do whatever they have to do" to gain information in an effort to thwart future attacks. "Waterboarding would be fine. If they can expand the laws, I would do a lot more than waterboarding," Trump said on NBC's "Today" program, adding he believed torture could produce useful leads. "You have to get the information from these people." Waterboarding, the practice of pouring water over someones face to simulate drowning as an interrogation tactic, was banned by President Barack Obama days after he took office in 2009. Critics call it torture. Trump's main Republican rival, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, suggested heightened police scrutiny of neighborhoods with large Muslim populations. "We need to empower law enforcement to patrol and secure Muslim neighborhoods before they become radicalized," he said in a statement. Trump also called for increased law enforcement surveillance of mosques in the United States. "You need surveillance. You have to deal with the mosques, whether we like it or not," Trump told Fox Business Network. "These attacks ... they're not done by Swedish people, that I can tell you." Islamic State claimed responsibility for Tuesday's suicide bomb attacks on Brussels airport and a rush-hour metro train in the Belgian capital which killed at least 30 people. Trump, who has called for a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country, urged tougher measures to stop the flow of illegal immigrants, particularly Syrian refugees, into America. "As president ... I would be very, very tough on the borders, and I would be not allowing certain people to come into this country without absolute perfect documentation," said Trump, campaigning to become the Republican nominee for the Nov. 8 election that will decide on Obama's successor. The Brussels attacks brought national security back to the top of the presidential election agenda, possibly sharpening the division between Trumps isolationist approach to foreign policy and his Republican rivals more traditional interventionist outlook. On Monday, Trump expressed skepticism about the U.S. role in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and said the United States should significantly cut spending on the defense alliance. 'THEY NEED MORE HELP' Cruz criticized Trump's NATO proposal. "The way to respond to terrorist attacks is not weakness. Its not unilateral and preemptive surrender. Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from NATO, as Trump suggests, is preemptive surrender," Cruz told reporters in Washington. Earlier attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California, have pushed security issues to the forefront of the White House campaign debate. When 130 people were killed in Paris in November, the threat of terrorism jumped from fifth to first on a Reuters/Ipsos poll list of the country's most important problems and remained there until the economy moved back to the top of the list in mid-January. Democratic presidential front-runner Hillary Clinton said U.S. military leaders have found techniques like waterboarding are not effective. "We've got to work this through consistent with our values," she said on NBC, adding officials "do not need to resort to torture, but they are going to need more help." Clinton's Democratic rival, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, backed stronger intelligence-sharing and monitoring of social media in the fight against Islamist militants, but opposed bolstered surveillance of Muslim communities. "That would be unconstitutional, and it would be wrong. We are fighting a terrorist organization, a barbaric organization that is killing innocent people. We are not fighting a religion," Sanders told reporters. Walid Phares, named by Trump this week as one of his foreign policy experts, told Reuters the Brussels attacks would force Europe and the United States to "reassess" counter-terrorism strategies in "identifying the radicalized elements and also the type of protection soft targets need." Trump looks to take another step toward winning the Republican presidential nomination in contests in Arizona and Utah on Tuesday, aiming to deal another setback to the party establishment's flagging stop-Trump movement. He has a big lead in convention delegates who will pick the Republican nominee, defying weeks of attacks from members of the party establishment worried he will lead the Republicans to defeat in November. In Arizona, one of the U.S. states that borders Mexico, Trump's hardline immigration message is popular and he leads in polls, while in Utah Trump lags in polls behind Cruz. In addition to the temporary ban on Muslims entering the country, Trump has called for the building of a wall on the U.S.-Mexican border to halt illegal immigration. (Additional reporting by Alana Wise, Susan Heavey and Mark Hosenball in Washington and Chris Kahn in New York; Editing by Jeffrey Benkoe and Alistair Bell)
By Ercan Gurses and Orhan Coskun ANKARA (Reuters) - Changes to Turkey's constitution envisaged by the ruling AK Party could hand President Tayyip Erdogan new powers to draft legislation directly and pick ministers, senior officials said, moves opponents fear could entrench authoritarian rule. A cross-party commission charged with drafting a new constitution collapsed last month after the main opposition pulled out over attempts by the AKP, founded by Erdogan more than a decade ago, to change Turkey from a parliamentary to a presidential system. Erdogan won Turkey's first popular presidential election in August 2014 and has made no secret of his ambition to imbue the largely ceremonial post with more powers. Previous heads of state had been elected by parliament. The debate over the constitution has profound implications for Turkey, a NATO member state of 79 million people with aspirations to join the European Union. The outcome could change the way Turkey is ruled and redefine issues ranging from Turkish citizenship to the protection of religious freedoms. Erdogan's supporters say an executive presidency is vital if Turkey is to have the powerful leadership it needs to take a bigger role on the world stage. They reject suggestions it is about the personal ambition of one man. His opponents say it will consolidate too much power in the hands of a leader, whose grip over the media, the judiciary and police has tightened in recent years. They fear Erdogan's roots in conservative Islamist politics will take Turkey ever further from Western standards on free speech. Erdogan has urged parliament to take the issue to a referendum, saying he believes Turks will accept a new charter and stronger powers for the head of state. Amid opposition dissent, the AKP is readying its own draft proposals. "If it emerges that the constitutional commission cannot work, the AKP will begin work on a constitution including the presidential system and will rapidly complete it," said Mustafa Sen, a chief adviser to Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. "A decision (on the AKP draft) could be reached before the summer ... We are not writing a 10-volume novel. It must not be a text of more than 60-70 articles," he told Reuters. Several other senior AKP officials said the party's proposals, which would need the support of 14 opposition members of parliament to be put to a national vote, were already under discussion. The plans would allow the president to dissolve parliament, officials familiar with the discussions said. Such a move would also end the president's term and trigger parliamentary and presidential elections to ensure checks and balances, they added. Two senior AKP officials involved in the deliberations said the president would be able to issue decrees to enact legislation without consulting parliament. "The president in our proposal would be more powerful than under the U.S. system," one of the officials said, declining to be identified because the plans have not yet been finalised. The head of state would also appoint the cabinet as well as senior figures including ambassadors and some members of the judiciary. "SECRETARIES, NOT MINISTERS" The AKP has broad cross-party support for overhauling the constitution, which dates back to an era of military coups and has been repeatedly revised. But there are wide divergences over what a new charter should look like. Opposition parties want it to focus primarily on protecting minority rights and democratic freedoms. "The current system is already pretty much like a semi-presidential system ... Even if there are shortcomings, a 200-year-old parliamentary system must not be sacrificed to the ambitions of one person," said Omer Suha Aldan, a deputy from the main opposition CHP. "The president would designate and unseat (cabinet members). They wouldn't be ministers, they'd be secretaries," he said. Erdogan, who was prime minister for more than a decade, hoped after his election as head of state for swift constitutional reform to bolster his powers. But those plans have been impeded in part because of opposition fears of creeping authoritarianism. More than 1,800 court cases have been filed against people accused of insulting Erdogan since he became president, from students and a former Miss Turkey to journalists and academics, fuelling those fears. The looming trial of two prominent editors on terrorism charges, after their opposition newspaper Cumhuriyet published video of what it said were intelligence officials trucking arms to Syria, has also raised international concern. ANOTHER ELECTION? Erdogan himself has insisted the plans are not about personal ambition but about replacing a system he says is out of date and unsustainable, with both the prime minister and president popularly elected. "A powerful prime minister and a president elected directly by the people could pave the way for a crisis. The presidential system aims to fix that anomaly," the presidency source said. There was no crisis already only because Erdogan and Davutoglu share the same political vision, which may not be the case for future presidents and prime ministers, he said. Several AKP officials said they believed the party could quickly agree a draft proposal to put to parliament and they were confident of winning enough support for a referendum in the autumn, or early next year. Some Turkish newspapers have speculated that a fresh parliamentary election could be called to allow the AKP to try to boost its parliamentary majority in order to ease the proposal's passage. Another election could be destabilizing for Turkey after four votes in the past two years, a cycle which polarized the electorate and slowed progress on reforms. (Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Daren Butler in Istanbul and Nick Tattersall in Ankara; Writing by Nick Tattersall; editing by Janet McBride)
By Dustin Volz, Nate Raymond and Jim Finkle WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Obama administration is expected to blame Iranian hackers as soon as Thursday for a coordinated campaign of cyber attacks in 2012 and 2013 on several U.S. banks and a New York dam, sources familiar with the matter have told Reuters. The Justice Department has prepared an indictment against about a half-dozen Iranians, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. It is one of the highest-profile U.S. indictments against a foreign nation on hacking charges. It follows a landmark 2014 case in which a grand jury charged five members of the Chinese military with hacking into American computer networks and engaging in cyber espionage on behalf of a foreign government. The charges, related to unlawful access to computers and other alleged crimes, were expected to be announced publicly by U.S. officials as soon as Thursday morning at a news conference in Washington, the sources said. The indictment was expected to directly link the hacking campaign to the Iranian government, one source said. The banks will not be identified in the indictment due to fear of retaliation, the source said. Though a planned indictment for the breach of back-office computer systems at the Bowman Avenue Dam in Rye Brook, New York, has been reported, it was only part of a hacking campaign that was broader than previously known, as the indictment will show, the sources said. The dam breach coincided roughly with a spate of distributed denial of service attacks in 2012 that hit more than a half dozen U.S. financial institutions and the two episodes were long suspected of being connected. Cyber security experts have said these, too, were perpetrated by Iranian hackers against Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Capital One, PNC Financial Services and SunTrust Bank. In the intrusion of the dam computers, the hackers did not gain operational control of the floodgates, and investigators believe they were attempting to test their capabilities. The hackers who were expected to be named in the indictment all reside in Iran, one source said. The Justice Department declined to comment. 'WILD WEST DAYS' The indictment would be the Obama administration's latest step to confront foreign cyber attacks on the United States. President Barack Obama accused and publicly condemned North Korea over a 2014 hack on Sony Pictures and vowed to respond proportionally. No details were made public of any retaliation. James Lewis, a cyber security expert with the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank, said, "We need to make clear that there will be consequences for cyber-attacks and that the Wild West days are coming to an end." Two weeks ago, it was widely reported that U.S. prosecutors were preparing an indictment against Iranian hackers related solely to the dam attack. The broader indictment would come at a time of reduced tensions between the United States and Iran after a landmark 2015 nuclear deal. At the same time, the Obama administration has shown a willingness to confront Tehran for bad behavior. Charging the Iranian hackers would be the highest-profile move of its type by the Obama administration since the Justice Department in 2014 accused five members of China's Peoples Liberation Army with hacking several Pennsylvania-based companies in an alleged effort to steal trade secrets. 'WHEN, NOT IF' U.S. national security professionals and cyber-security experts have grown increasingly worried about attacks on infrastructure including dams, power plants, factories and financial institutions. That concern has grown since a December cyber attack in the Ukraine caused a blackout that temporarily left 225,000 customers without power. Speaking at a cyber security conference earlier this month, National Security Agency chief Michael Rogers said it was a matter of when, not if another country launched a successful and destructive cyber attack on U.S. critical infrastructure like the one seen in Ukraine. Some experts have said the United States is less well-equipped to respond to a major infrastructure attack because systems are more connected and reliant on the Internet. The United States and Israel covertly sabotaged Irans nuclear program in 2009 and 2010 with the now-famous Stuxnet computer virus, which destroyed Iranian centrifuges that were enriching uranium. (Reporting by Dustin Volz in Washington, Nate Raymond in New York and Jim Finkle in Boston; additional reporting by Mark Hosenball in Washington and Jim Finkle in Boston; Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Jonathan Oatis)
PRAGUE (Reuters) - The frontrunner to head a new Ukrainian government has asked Slovak politician Ivan Miklos to serve as his finance minister if he becomes prime minister, a Slovak daily said on Monday. Miklos, who has twice served as Slovakia's finance minister, has given his preliminary approval to the offer from Volodymyr Groysman, an ally of Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko, provided he wins a guarantee that he will not have to give up his Slovak citizenship, the daily Dennik N said on its website. His appointment would spell the departure of Ukraines current finance minister, Natalia Yaresko, a foreign-born technocrat who is respected in Washington and who had put her own name forward to become prime minister as late as last week. Miklos, who oversaw market-friendly reforms in Slovakia while in government in 2002-2006 and 2010-2012, is already an adviser to Ukraine's finance ministry. Under current legislation, any member of Ukraine's government must be a citizen of the country, while in Slovakia there are laws against dual citizenship. "I got an offer to join the government and gave my preliminary approval to the nomination after the fulfilment of certain conditions," Miklos told the website. "It is unacceptable for me to lose my Slovak citizenship so a solution lies now with the Ukrainian side, which will probably have to change Ukrainian legislation," he was quoted as saying. Ukraine's finance ministry was not immediately available to comment. Groysman, Ukraine's parliamentary speaker, emerged last week as the frontrunner to replace unpopular Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk. Support for Yatseniuk's Western-backed government has plunged since he took power after the 2013/2014 Maidan protests and his government has been hanging by a thread since three parties quit the coalition, the first of them last September. Groysman's appointment is not a shoe-in, even assuming that Yatseniuk finally bows to calls to resign, and it is likely to come only after days or weeks of fractious talks between parties. Coalition infighting and corruption scandals have stymied reforms demanded by Kiev's Western backers and derailed negotiations for a new $1.7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund needed to prop up Ukraine's war-torn economy. (Reporting by Jason Hovet; Editing by Gareth Jones)
Santa Clara, CA: Frontier Airlines is facing a Frontier Airlines is facing a consumer fraud class action lawsuit filed by customer who allege a significant delay of their flight on Frontier Airlines resulted in their incurring economic, actual, damages, among other things.

Filed by Volha Budylina and Marina Snopova Dmitri Prigorenko, individually and on behalf of their minor children, Mathew and Angelika Prigorenko, the class action alleges breach of contract and violations of Article 19 of the Montreal Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air.



Specifically, the plaintiffs claim they were scheduled to fly from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic to Chicago on January 28. However, due to alleged negligent maintenance of an aircraft., Frontier's flights from Punta Cana Airport were delayed on departure by more than six hours.



The lawsuit states that the plaintiffs were confined at departure area without access to food, refreshments, or lavatories. Frontier employees were allegedly willfully indifferent to the plaintiffs' care, and did not advise them as to the cause, nature, extent, or duration of delay of Frontier departing flights.



According to the complaint, the plaintiffs arrived at their destination 12-24 hours later than their planned arrival, the suit states. As a result, they allegedly incurred economic, actual, general, special, incidental, and other kinds of damages.



The case is US Federal Court of the Northern District of Illinois Case number 1:16-cv-03373.







Airline Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered similar damages or injuries, please Filed by Volha Budylina and Marina Snopova Dmitri Prigorenko, individually and on behalf of their minor children, Mathew and Angelika Prigorenko, the class action alleges breach of contract and violations of Article 19 of the Montreal Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air.Specifically, the plaintiffs claim they were scheduled to fly from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic to Chicago on January 28. However, due to alleged negligent maintenance of an aircraft., Frontier's flights from Punta Cana Airport were delayed on departure by more than six hours.The lawsuit states that the plaintiffs were confined at departure area without access to food, refreshments, or lavatories. Frontier employees were allegedly willfully indifferent to the plaintiffs' care, and did not advise them as to the cause, nature, extent, or duration of delay of Frontier departing flights.According to the complaint, the plaintiffs arrived at their destination 12-24 hours later than their planned arrival, the suit states. As a result, they allegedly incurred economic, actual, general, special, incidental, and other kinds of damages.The case is US Federal Court of the Northern District of Illinois Case number 1:16-cv-03373.If you or a loved one has suffered similar damages or injuries, please fill in our form on the right and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.

Reader Comments

Posted by

Robert O'Connell

on February 24, 2020 Frontier often reroutes flights to Colorado Springs destined to Denver. The only ground transportation options are a bus to Denver airport -- with no guarantee of available connecting flight nor ground transport, or a credit up to $150 for use on a Frontier flight that must be booked withing 3 months. None of this was disclosed before, during or after the trip.



Flight originated BWI.

Posted by

Sarah Vinciguerra

on August 22, 2019 I was at Laguardia airport for a 10pm flight to Denver. They kept pushing back the flight time, not informing any of the passengers what was going on. Then at midnight, they announced the flight was "cancelled" due to technical errors. They gave out vouchers saying they would reimburse you up to $400 for alternate plane ticket purchased so everyone could continue to their destination. I submitted my receipts along with my voucher within one week of traveling. I checked in after one month, three months, six months, 9 months... etc. They kept saying "your check is on its way". I filed with better business bureau and Frontier committed to pay. It's been over a year since the cancelled flight and I have not seen one penny from Frontier.

Posted by

S Fox

on September 15, 2017 I was on a flight from puerto vallarta to Denver on December 19 and experienced a long delay on the tarmac when we arrived in Denver during the snow storm. My hotel hotel gave my room to someone else. There was a general panic among the passengers regarding this storm and all the delays at the airport. The crew did very little to make us comfortable. Most were tired and hungry. I did not know about this lawsuit until. I heard about it on my local news.

Can anyone tell me if I could be included in this suit.

Thank you

S fox

Posted by

Patrice Brown

on June 28, 2017 Booked a package deal to Vegas flying out of Nashville on December 18,2016 on Frontier Airlines. While at airport the flight was delayed 3 times and finally at 10:30 we were told it was cancelled and the next available flight would be on Wednesday the day we were scheduled to come back. We had to find a hotel that cost $97! I'm out of over a $1,000 because the package deal was non-refundable and the activities we prepaid for were also non- refundable. I was sent a voucher that expired in May and when we looked they weren't any flights available for us to book. Frontier Airlines should be ashamed of themselves because the customer service reps are very rude.

Posted by

Pat Taylor

on December 31, 2016 Three of us were scheduled to fly from NOLA to Denver December 19, 2016, for a family reunion. Late afternoon, December 18, I checked in; got boarding passes, purchased a bundle for seats and luggage (@$349-369). Just before leaving for the airport (an hour away) I checked the status of our flight. CANCELLED! I called Frontier and recording said flight was on time. Back to the app - CANCELLED. Checked with airport-CANCELLED.



Tried to get another flight and was offered a Flight on December 23, 2016 - the day we were scheduled to return!



Also, the three of us had paid half of the rental house in Colorado which one family was able to enjoy. So we are not only out of flight and bundle, but the cost of unused house!



Now, Frontier offers a credit for flight only and it must be scheduled by March 19, 2017 and can travel at later date. No credit for paid bundle! No family reunion since one son and family are moving to Korea and December was last chance to get all of us together for next four years.



Really upset!

Posted by

cindy gress

on December 27, 2016 We were cancelled on a flight directly from Orlando Florida to MCI on 12/18/16 saying it was cancelled due to weather. other airlines were flying in to MCI that day. They rescheduled us 2 days later for the earliest but then they cancelled it. They then told us it'd be 7 days later after Christmas before they could get us home. They gave us no hotel accomodations no help only hours of waiting and being hung up on after 30-45 minutes on hold.Most unprofessional experience in flying I've ever heard of. We were out over $2000 for missing work, flights with another airline. They haven't refunded our money or anything. It has all had to come out of our pocket even though I had a plane ticket from them.They owe me flight $, bag fees paid and never used, hotel fees , meals etc. I WOULD NEVER TRUST FRONTIER after this. They just lied and lied. No answers or help.

Posted by

Brittanie Van Der Linde

on December 7, 2016 My boyfriend and I were denied boarding for a return flight home because the airline "oversold" seats. The agent at the counter said the only other option was to get us seats on a plane leaving five days later. That was not an option we were prepared to take, as we both had work to get back to the following day. The agent then provided us with a phone number to call and get our flight refunded, and that was the end of it. No voucher, no information on any flights that day with any other airliners, not even an apology. She simply let us go without any peace of mind and without any sound explanation. We were stranded. We decided to use the number she provided and get our refund, and perhaps speak with someone who was able to ease our stress and provide us with a solid apology and at least take some responsibility. We were issued a refund, but were told we had to take care of finding a flight home and then file for an additional refund for the out-of-pocket expense we were about to accrue with a different airline. Now that we are home, I have been online and on the phone for the past four days and still no one seems to "have the authority" to help any further, and am being told that "in your notes, the agent has explained that you were late. We see nothing here about a flight being oversold". Now, not only are we being blamed for their mistake, my boyfriend and I are out almost $1,200, and are left feeling helpless and taken advantage of by an airline that boasts on their website that they are "committed to serving it's customers".

Posted by

Sharon McDonald

on September 20, 2016 Overcharged for luggage via misrepresention og bag fee policies, flight was delayed twice out of Denver, arrived in St Louis from Denver. Twenty of us waited at baggage claim only to be told that all of our luggage was still in Denver because Frontier is still trying to catch up with prior luggage losses and our bags didnt fit on plane. Filled out loss claim, still waiting for our bags. We booked on Hotwire and there was no mention of all of the nickel and dime charges we incurred over and above prepaid Hotwire purchase. We're out approx $200 addtl fee, lost 2 checked bags and sat forever in Denver airport, after two flight changes and one gate change.

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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.
Modified On Mar 29, 2016 11:53 AM By Saad

Continuing with its Make in India plan, Audi is mulling to locally assemble the 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine that would begin by the end of this year. The rumours started emerging last year that Audi is planning local assembly of certain engines to reduce cost and accelerate production, but it seems now that the company is seriously thinking of implementing this. The said engine would be the second one after the 1.5-litre diesel mill, which underwent a localisation process last year. The 2.0-litre engine also meets BS-VI standards which will be mandatory starting April 2020.

According to a report by Moneycontrol, the popular 2.0-litre TDI engine, which is being used in several vehicles under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, would be locally assembled at the manufacturers Pune plant. The decision would help Audi to remain on par with its German counterparts Mercedes-Benz and BMW, which have been locally assembling their engines in collaboration with Force Motors.

Why the local assembly of 2.0-litre engine?

The 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine is a versatile powertrain that has been working in a range of vehicles under the Volkswagen Group, such as the Audi A4, the A6, the Q3, Skoda Superb, Skoda Octavia, VW Jetta, and the Passat, across the globe. The engine is an evolved version of the current TDI and is frugal in terms of both fuel economy and carbon emissions. The new engine also adds extra power and torque to the previous version, providing brisk acceleration. India being a market where people are inclined towards diesel engines due to their excellent fuel economy, the move will certainly be beneficial for prospective customers.

Secondly, the price benefit of localisation would be passed on to the customers, resulting in increased sales for the company as well. For instance, if the locally assembled engine is installed in the newly launched Skoda Superb, it would surely give its rivals such as Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry and upcoming Honda Accord a run for their money. Apply the same to the other cars of the VW group, and we would realize the intentions of the company with respect to its rivals.

It is speculated that the single assembly line in the plant will be used to fabricate the new engine. The move is expected to cut the import cost by 10 to 30 per cent and would help the carmaker set the price more competitively. This would eventually reduce the waiting period of Audi cars as well. The transmission gearbox of the company, though, would continue to be imported.

Audi has committed to launch 20 new models worldwide in the year 2016; a large part of this product line-up will also be available in the Indian market. So the intention of the company is to glide back to the numero uno position which it lost to Mercedes-Benz in 2015. We believe that the localisation of engines is just the beginning.

Source: Moneycontrol

Also Read: Spied: All-new Audi TT RS Cabriolet
Modified On Mar 09, 2017 12:29 PM By Sumit for Renault KWID 2015-2019

The Renault Kwid has been spied while being tested in Brazil. The test mule was fully uncovered and it can be safely said that it is similar to the one available in India. The car with the 1.0-litre engine had been spied earlier as well.

The Indian version of the car is powered by a 0.8-litre engine which produces 53bhp of power and 72Nm of torque. A 1.0-litre version of the Kwid is also set to be launched around Diwali. The more powerful variant will also get an optional Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), just like its chief rival, the Alto K10. The Kwid with the larger engine and the AMT was showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo. Renault has not disclosed the power figures of the larger engine, but we expect it to be around the 77bhp mark. For the Brazilian market, chances are that the automaker might introduce the car only with the 1.0-litre mill.

Renault has already commenced exports of the Kwid, and is expected to launch the car in Brazil around September. It will be exported as semi-knockeddown units and will be assembled at Renaults local plants in Brazil. However, it is not the first international market for the Kwid. It has been reported that Mauritius will be the vehicles first export destination.

An impressive number of Kwid Bookings resulted in a spectacular success of this car in the Indian market. Considering this fact, Datsun, Renaults partner in India, will be employing the same CMF-A platform in its to-be-launched hatch, the Redi-GO. With Brazil having an economy comparable Indias, chances are high that the car will be a hit there too.

Watch Showcase Video of Renault KWID 1.0 AMT at Auto Expo 2016

Also Read: Renault to Export Kwid to Brazil from Next Month

Image Source: Autossegredos.com.br

Read More on : Renault KWID
Just about everyone knows how important it is to save and invest for retirement. After all, pensions are increasingly a thing of the past for most of us, and few of us are independently wealthy. Thus, more than ever, our future financial health is largely in our own hands. A critical question lingers in many peoples minds, though: just how much money to save every year. Here are three responses to that question.

Brian Feroldi: Im a passionate believer in pushing yourself hard to get your savings rate as high as possible, but I realize everyone is in a different financial situation. Despite that, with the exception of the most dire financial positions, I think everybody should at least contribute enough to their 401(k) or 403(b) account to maximize any available employer matching funds. Otherwise, youre voluntarily saying no to free money.

Many employers that offer a 401(k) plan have a matching program in place. While the rules vary from company to company, one common setup is that the employer matches half of the first 6% of an employees contribution. That means if an employee elects to contribute 6% of her salary to the plan, then the company will add in another 3%.

You might think 3% is kind of puny, but since the typical American family earned $53,657 in 2014, a bump like that adds an extra $1,609 to the employees nest egg each year. Thats certainly not chump change!
Hillary Clinton Has Helped Kill Millions Of People, Billions Of Animals

by ARC Mon, Mar 28, 2016 9:03AM

Hillary Clinton's record includes voting for war, prosecuting 7 wars, Honduras capitalist coup'detat, supporter of death penalty, enabler of WalMart unionbusting, cattle futures insider trading, relationship with

one of the biggest slaughterhouse cartels in the US etc. Someone will vote for Bernie, others for a third party.
Kentucky Derby 142 to Provide Unique Challenge for Bettors: Every year, Churchill Downs hosts the Kentucky Derby (GI) to the delight of the entire horse racing industry, including casual and professional gamblers. The historic racetrack runs the event on May 7, and bettors cannot wait to wager on the countrys most famous Thoroughbred race.

Part of the reason for the excitement lies in the generous payoffs. Yet, cashing in might require some homework.

Analyzing the Derby offers a stern (yet rewarding) challenge for all levels of handicappers. In 2012, revered Daily Racing Form writer Steven Crist explained the difficult nature of deciphering the Kentucky Derby.

Larger fields mean more traffic, more chaos, and a larger pool of plausible contenders, especially for the minor awards that fill out trifectas and superfectas, Crist wrote.

Pace and traffic issues are mainly what cause the chaos Crist refers to in his article.

With 20 horses, the pace is bound to be faster than the average race because there is a higher chance for a speed duel to occur. Even when the pace is not suicidal, the horses run fairly quick for a 10-furlong event. For example, last year Dortmund led them through opening fractions of 23.24 and 47.34 seconds.

The points system installed a few years ago is supposed to cut down on the number of sprinters competing in the Derby, but a legitimate pace will happen with 20 horses and help closers.

Even so, before unloading the bankroll on come-from-behind types, stop and think about the traffic problems a 20-horse field brings. Closers already run into trouble in a normal-sized field (cough  Mo Tom).

Ideally, a closer will posses nimble qualities and cut through the mess, such as Mine That Bird in 2009 when he upset the field at 50-1. Late runners who require space to start their engines may not merit a wager on top.

Last year came as a disappointment for a few gamblers since favorites dominated and diluted the rewards. In other years, a longshot closer usually clunks along and finds his way into third or fourth place.

Some handicappers consider the bombs who crawl their way onto the board random. Consider the profile of those Derby horses though, and the longshot winners as well. Like Golden Soul, they come from behind!

If a Golden Soul type bomb falls into a Top 4 placing on May 7, expect the handicapping forums to blow up with excitement. The kind of races where longshot players are rewarded help keep them returning for more.

Besides the handicapping challenges, bettors must also face emotional bias. Yes, even seasoned gamblers are not immune to sticking with their favorite horse throughout the prep races and into the actual Kentucky Derby.

In addition, so much hype will go towards the top horse and possibly cause a few racing fans to bet against him (or her) because they cannot stand the attention given to the anointed super horse.

Letting a little emotional bias take over is not terrible. After all, the idea is to become excited about the Kentucky Derby and everything surrounding the event. The countdown continues. Only a little more than a month remains!
Los Angeles, CA Much focus has been placed, over the past several months, on the minimum pay raise to $10 per hour that came into effect the first of the year, together with the equal pay regulations that also took effect this past January 1. However, lost in the introduction of these latest updates to Much focus has been placed, over the past several months, on the minimum pay raise to $10 per hour that came into effect the first of the year, together with the equal pay regulations that also took effect this past January 1. However, lost in the introduction of these latest updates to California labor law is a statute that came into effect January 1, 2014 that removed the overtime exemption from personal caregivers.

Previously, under the California labor code, most personal caregivers were exempt from overtime. Thus, any caregiver being paid a day rate, or a set monthly rate regardless of the number of hours worked, would not take issue with their circumstances.As of two years ago this past January, this is no longer the case. Now, according to California labor law and corresponding changes to the Domestic Worker Bill of Rights (DWBR), a personal care worker toiling for in excess of nine hours in any given day, or more than 45 hours in any given week, must be paid time-and-a-half in accordance with California law.Attorney and columnist Daniel R. Chaleff of the law firm Chaleff Rehwald, writing in the(2/13/16), uses the example of a caregiver who might be expected, depending upon the circumstances, to be on-call for 24 hours - perhaps caring for an elderly individual at home, for example, or a nanny who has responsibility for children across an entire 24-hour period.With the increase in Californias minimum wage to $10 an hour on January 1, 2016 Chaleff writes, that means a 24-hour caregiver must be paid $315 a day to comply with the current law.Many caregivers are working under a day rate or monthly salarythat does not compensate for the overtime hours worked, and results in a substantial unpaid overtime claim for the employee.Its possible, even two years on, that many caregivers or personal attendants are not aware of this change in California labor employment law - or conversely, may have been convinced by an employer that the caregiver is, in fact, an independent contractor.While independent contractors are exempt from overtime as they are not classified as employees per se, an independent contractor also has a certain level of autonomy an employee would not be expected or have the opportunity to duplicate. To that end, were the employer to continue calling the shots in terms of their needs, personal care and/or that of their children, then it can be argued the personal caregiver is not qualified as an independent contractor and, thus, could be in line for substantial compensation from an employer not playing by the rules.Chaleff notes that a 24-hour caregiver working in such a capacity for one year under a day rate could be in for a $100,000 windfall in compensation, interest, penalties and attorneys fees through a California labor lawsuit.While each case is different, the combination of a raise in the minimum wage and the now two-year-old change to the DWBR and corresponding California state labor laws may have placed a domestic worker in a negative situation should an employer remain noncompliant.Such laws are designed to enhance a workers opportunity to pursue justice under the law. It behooves an employee who suspects violations in pay to come forward, on behalf of themselves and all those similarly situated, to speak up and be heard without fear of retaliation.
Regina, SK Seems everybody from the small-time investor right on up to the office of Canadas Prime Minister got sucked into a convoluted tax shelter scam that is alleged to have Seems everybody from the small-time investor right on up to the office of Canadas Prime Minister got sucked into a convoluted tax shelter scam that is alleged to have bilked Canadian investors out of billions of dollars.

Our estimate is that 118,000 families may have been hurt by this and the amount of money involved we believe is close to $6 billion, says Merchant.

The courts determined in 2015 that a registered charity and purported tax shelter called Global Learning Gifting Initiative (GLGI) was a full-on fraud.Investors are now lining up to sue GLGI promoters that led investors to believe this was a combination of a good cause and slam-dunk tax shelter. They are also turning their attention to the lawyers and accountants that benefited from their roles as advisers and administrators of GLGI.Not only that, the class-action suit also targets the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for not alerting people to the fact that GLGI consistently failed to meet the requirements of a legitimate tax shelter under Canadian tax laws.According to lawyer Anthony Merchant, from the Merchant Law Group, at least 2,700 people have joined in the class-action suit so far, with potentially many more to come.Between 2004 and 2011, GLGI promoters invited potential investors to make a $5,000 cash donation to the charity as well as contribute computer courseware and licenses valued at a certain amount.In 2004, the CRA issued GLGI a tax shelter number. For the next seven years, it processed claims by investors.In 2004, 2005 and 2006, the lead plaintiff in the class-action suit, Lorne Piett, made a $5,000 cash contribution to the charity as well as $15,026 in a courseware contribution.In 2007, three years after his initial claim, the CRA reassessed his claim and billed Piett $14,720. The following year he made a similar contribution to GLGI. The CRA rejected his claim again for a similar amount and billed him $25,050. The next year, Pietts claim for yet another, similar contribution was rejected and the CRA billed him $43,399.Other members of the class have similar stories and some of the amounts involved are quite large.As investors, some people were invited to be guests at large computer literacy functions and received official letters from the office of the Prime Minister of Canada and other elected officials congratulating GLGI on its efforts to advance computer literacy.Tens of thousands of people got these kinds of letters, says Merchant. The Prime Minister (former Prime Minister Stephen Harper) sent these kinds of letters more frequently than anyone.It made donors think they were gifting appropriately, says Merchant. But the courts have decided things were handled so badly that it was a sham. Issues of negligence loom large here.The class-action suit has yet to be certified and allegations in the class action have not been proven in court.
Kias Indian entry has been in the news for the past few years but Hyundais sister brand continues to be tight-lipped about it. There were reports that the South Korean automaker conducted several market studies including a complete feasibility study in India.

Last year it was reported that Kia has kick-started the preliminary work on identifying land for a local factory, possible models and suppliers. This indicates that Kias Operation India is a go. If things go as per plan, Kia India is expected to start selling cars in 2-3 years time. Clearing the governmental formalities, construction of the infrastructure, procuring the tooling and localization of products are all time-consuming processes.

Its a bit too early to predict Kia Indias product portfolio but one can safely expect a crossover, a SUV and a hatchback to be in the mix. Kias comprehensive global lineup also includes a range of sharp looking sedans. Several Hyundai models have a Kia counterpart, so component sharing would play a huge role in the Indian operations.

Now, two Kia models have been spied on test in India  Kia Soul and Kia Sportage. Kia Soul is a compact SUV while the Sportage is a crossover. Both cars have the potential to generate good sales as the SUV / crossover market is booming as of now in the country. Also, this is the first time that Kia models have been spied on test in India wearing a Indian license plate. This confirms that Kia has started road-testing of their select cars in India.

It remains to be seen whether Kia India will rely on Hyundai India for distribution and sales network or set up its own apparatus.

Once Kia sets up its new facility, it is also possible Hyundai could be using Kias new facility to produce some of its models. This would ensure that Kia Indias capacity utilization would be maintained at a satisfactory level even as the brand takes baby steps in the market. It is also to be noted that Hyundai India is in need of additional capacity as its existing facility is running at near-full capacity.

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Companies appear to structure compensation contracts and incentive pay based on a manager's personality traits, and not just firm characteristics, according to a new study from The University of Texas at Dallas.

Dr. Vikram Nanda, O.P. Jindal Distinguished Chair of finance and managerial economics in the Naveen Jindal School of Management, said there are divergent views on the use of options and stock in CEO compensation contracts: do they appropriately incentivize managers and enhance shareholder value, and if so, why is there much variation in their use across firms?

The study, published recently in the Journal of Financial Economics, found that companies offer incentive-heavy compensation contracts to overconfident CEOs to "exploit" their positively biased views of the firms' prospects. The notion is that if managers and shareholders -- represented by the board -- have a different take on a firm's prospects and CEO talent, there will be greater use of incentive pay that the managers value highly, but the board regards as less costly.

"When you think about incentive contracts, you don't usually think about the personality of the individual being a factor in the contract," Nanda said. "You don't usually hear about how two profit-sharing agreements are going to look different because the personalities and the beliefs of the individuals are coming into play."

Using the compensation data of CEOs between 1992 and 2011, the researchers identified managers who were exhibiting behavior that was overconfident compared to other CEOs. They conducted empirical tests to explore the relationship between CEO overconfidence and incentive compensation.

The study shows that incentive compensation for CEOs is driven by individual traits and not merely firm-level characteristics.

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"Are CEOs being given these contracts because they are serving an incentive function -- incentive contracts are supposed to say you'll get paid more if you do the right thing or work really hard -- or are they just being paid more because these CEOs value these contracts more?" Nanda said. "If a CEO believes the firm is going to do very well, maybe he will take a lot of his compensation in options and stock."

The researchers found that:

CEO overconfidence increases the proportions of total compensation that comes from both option grants and equity grants, compared to other executives.

Overconfident CEOs receive even greater option and equity intensity in innovative and risky firms.

Overconfident non-CEO executives also receive higher levels of options and equity.

"Incentive contracts are sometimes designed to be sensitive to these individual preferences," Nanda said. "Even at the same firm, I wouldn't necessarily give one manager the same contract that I would give to another manager who has a different belief about what's going on in the firm. Basically, one size doesn't fit all."

Dr. Mark Humphery-Jenner of UNSW Australia, Dr. Ling Lei Lisic of George Mason University, and Dr. Sabatino Dino Silveri of the University of Memphis are co-authors of the paper.

Defining an Overconfident CEO

Overconfident CEOs are prone to overestimate returns to investments and underestimate risks, Dr. Vikram Nanda said. They may use extremely positive words in the media or tend to invest more than a typical manager in the industry.

"It's good to have your enthusiasm and your confidence," Nanda said. "The question is, if it's too strong, is there something the firm can do -- such as giving you incentive contracts, or monitoring your behavior, or constricting what you can do -- to bring out the good side and constrain the bad aspects?"
Newly examined video of Kemp's ridley sea turtles, which are found primarily in the Gulf of Mexico, shows that the species' recovery from endangerment has stalled at less than one-tenth of historic nesting levels.

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham came to that conclusion after being tasked with identifying the qualifying measure of endangerment for the species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, or IUCN.

Kemp's ridley turtles are currently classified as critically endangered on the IUCN's Red List of Threatened Species. The species was on the brink of extinction in the 1980s, but a Mexico-U.S. bi-national conservation program initiated in 1978 was able to reverse its decline.

The decades of intense conservation efforts were evident by 2009, with the Kemp's ridley exhibiting an exponential recovery rate that was expected to continue for many years. However, an unanticipated downturn occurred in 2010 when the amount of nesting dropped significantly, and since that time, the species has not regained an upward trajectory to recovery.

How many Kemp's ridley turtles should there be in the Gulf? Scientists and conservationists weren't sure; there was a lack of data between 1880, when the species was discovered, and the start of the conservation efforts in 1978.

UAB's study, led by Thane Wibbels, Ph.D., a biology professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, and doctoral student Elizabeth Bevan, set out to answer that question through the evaluation of a historic film recorded in 1947 by Andres Herrera, a Mexican sportsman, on the Kemp's ridley's primary nesting beach in the western Gulf of Mexico near Rancho Nuevo, Mexico.

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The film captured a mass-nesting event known as an arribada, involving tens of thousands of nesting turtles on a single day in 1947. It would help provide a rare benchmark for evaluating the historic population size of a species prior to its becoming endangered, which is usually not available for endangered species.

Uncovering the original riddle of the ridley

Prior to the film, the location of the Kemp's ridley nesting grounds was a mystery. After hearing about a large mass nesting of sea turtles from locals, Herrera recognized the significance of such a unique biological phenomenon and became committed to documenting this unique event for society.

During a two-year period, Herrera flew his own plane 33 times over the Gulf Coast north of Tampico, Mexico, conducting aerial surveys in search of the mass sea turtle nesting. In 1947, he finally uncovered the event, but his discovery would remain unknown to the scientific community for more than a dozen years.

"At the time of the film's development, no one was able to connect the dots between the phenomenon of the mass nesting and that the nests belonged to the Kemp's ridley sea turtles," Wibbels said. "Herrera was a hobby enthusiast who wasn't aware of the pursuit in the scientific world to uncover this location. Meanwhile, Archie Carr, who was considered to be the world's leading sea turtles expert, had been searching for the nesting beaches for this species for decades."

Carr searched for the Kemp's ridley nesting beaches in all of the usual nesting regions -- Florida, the Caribbean and the northern Gulf of Mexico; but after 20 years, he had found nothing.

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"He had no logical explanation for the fact that this abundant turtle was seemingly not breeding or nesting," Bevan said. "Scientists began to wonder whether the Kemp's ridley could actually be a hybrid turtle."

The dots were finally connected, and part of the mystery debunked, by Henry Hildebrand, Ph.D., from the University of Corpus Christi, who heard about the film and viewed it in 1961. Later that year, Hildebrand presented that film at the annual meeting of the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, revealing the news to the scientific community for the first time.

Breaking down the nesting numbers

It was estimated by some who viewed the original black-and-white footage that there were more than 40,000 nesting Kemp's ridley sea turtles on the beach that day. Wibbels and Bevan's recent study reflects more conservative, but still remarkable, numbers.

Wibbels and Bevan calculate that there were 26,000 sea turtles on a 1- to 2-mile stretch of beach on the day the film was taken.

The results from UAB's study published this week indicate that approximately 120,000 to 180,000 nests were laid over the entire 1947 nesting season in contrast to approximately 14,000 nests in the most recent nesting season.

This new information on the historic population size greatly increases the mystery surrounding the abrupt decline in the recovery of this endangered species since 2009. The number of nests laid in the 2015 nesting season represents a 34 percent decline in comparison to 2009, and this occurred during a time when exponential growth of the population back toward historic levels was expected.

What this means for conservation

Intense conservation efforts are continuing, and this critically endangered species is protected throughout its range.

"Because the Kemp's ridley is so protected, scientists believe that potential factors limiting its recovery may be habitat-related," Bevan said. "Another hypothesis among the field is that environmental pollution, in particular the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, may have significantly impacted the population, and many years may be required before the species regains an exponential recovery rate."

An alternative hypothesis is that the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem may have changed over the past seven decades since the Herrera film was recorded, and can no longer support the abundance of Kemp's ridleys documented in the 1947 film. For example, studies have shown that the abundance of blue crabs, a preferred food item for the Kemp's ridley, has significantly declined in the northern Gulf of Mexico in recent decades.

"The Kemp's ridley could be significantly impacted by long-term changes and the overall health of the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem because of its near exclusivity to the area and presence as a higher-trophic-level predator," Bevan said. "That's why it's so important that we continue our research into the mystery of its stalled growth."

"Solving the mystery will require continued monitoring of turtles on the nesting beach, a better understanding of the ecology of the Kemp's ridley in its foraging and developmental habitats, and an evaluation of potential changes in the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem since the 1947 Herrera film," Wibbels added.

Wibbels' and Bevan's work was published in Ecosphere this month.
New Zealand First is presenting legislation to amend the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act, because farmers have had enough, says Winston Peters, Northland MP.

After months of false promises, dairy farmers are telling the New Zealand First Leader that theyve had enough of Fonterras glass half full approach.
President Obama at American University's School of International Service in Washington in August 2015. Obama's speech, held at the same venue in which President Kennedy delivered his famous 1963 speech on nuclear disarmament, focused on the Iran Nuclear Deal as it was being debated in Congress. Photographer: Pete Marovich/Bloomberg *** Local Caption *** Barack Obama (Pete Marovich/Bloomberg)

A group of nuclear nonproliferation experts gathered in the White House Situation Room last Halloween to talk about how President Obama could still make nuclear security an important part of his legacy.

The timing was coincidental, but the location reflected the sensitivity and gravity of the agenda: loose nuclear material, superpower nuclear arsenals, nuclear terrorism, tensions with Russia and the unpredictability of North Korea. The administration also was hunting for ideas about what might be still doable in the presidents waning days in office.

The muted, closed-door White House meeting was a far cry from the rousing speech Obama delivered on April 5, 2009, before a crowd in Pragues Hradcany Square. There, a hopeful Obama set high goals for reducing the risk of nuclear weapons. He vowed to shrink the U.S. nuclear arsenal, secure poorly guarded nuclear materials such as uranium and plutonium, convene international nuclear summits, and confront and contain North Korea, which just that morning had tested a long-range missile.

His goal, he said, was to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons, while acknowledging that this goal will not be reached quickly  perhaps not in my lifetime.

Seven years later, on the eve of the last of four nuclear summits, Obamas track record is mixed on the issue that he elevated to a top priority. He has won an agreement to limit Irans nuclear program, persuaded about a quarter of the countries with loose nuclear materials to move them off their soil, and signed with Russia a new START treaty that includes new weapons limits.

But in his fiscal 2017 budget, Obama has proposed deep cuts in spending on programs to stop nuclear proliferation while leaving intact military spending on a new generation of weapons. The countries that have not given up stockpiles of nuclear material include the riskiest ones, such as Pakistan and India. And this weeks summit will have a glaringly empty chair, Russia. The worlds other nuclear superpower, amid tensions with the United States, has chosen not to attend.

Presidents George W. Bush and Obama both noted during their campaigns that the United States and Russia are still postured on what they called a hair trigger, said former senator Sam Nunn, who sponsored legislation when he was still in the Senate to assist Russia and former Soviet republics secure and destroy nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. We still have the ability to destroy each other in 30 minutes to an hours time. Both of them said they would improve that, and as far as I can tell, neither has.

The president has only accomplished a fraction of what he hoped to achieve, said Joseph Cirincione, president of the Ploughshares Fund. And now, he said, especially after the exhausting talks with Iran, some of the steam has gone out.

The White House, which did not reply to a request for comment, will likely argue that its achievements are substantial and that there is still time for more progress. It can use the nuclear summit to highlight improved training for nuclear industry workers, including a Chinese safety center created with U.S. help. The administration can also boast of a Latin American declaration that the continent will be a nuclear-weapons-free zone. Before Obama leaves office, Poland, Australia and Indonesia also might rid themselves of nuclear material.

The summit will also coincide with the arrival of a shipment of plutonium from Japan to the Savannah River storage facility run by the Energy Department, fulfilling a commitment Japan made at the 2014 summit to better safeguard dangerous materials.

But the Obama administration has also fallen short of many expectations.

The militarys weapons: Cirincione laments that there wasnt a single nuclear weapons program inherited from the Bush administration that Obama has stopped. In fact, hes added to them. He points to new land-based ballistic missiles, nuclear cruise missiles, a new generation of bomber planes and weapons capable of penetrating deep underground.

We are building a new bomber that we dont need, and then were going to outfit it with a new cruise missile we dont need, Cirincione said. It is a redundancy on top of a redundancy.

Budget cuts: For fiscal 2017, the Obama administration has proposed its smallest nuclear security budget ever. The proposal would slash spending for the National Nuclear Security Administrations international program by roughly two-thirds, to a level last seen in the mid-1990s.

One reason for the cut is that a portion of budgets over the past two decades went to securing material in the former Soviet Union. But that does not explain the entire reduction; plus, there are new needs.

The administration is now projecting lower spending year after year for years to come, postponing or canceling a wide range of nuclear security activities that had been included in earlier plans, said a new report by Harvard Universitys Belfer Center.

Nuclear weapons are up, up, up, and controlling them is down, down, down, Matthew Bunn, a Harvard professor and one of the Belfer Center co-authors, said in an interview.

Securing nuclear materials: Though the security for nuclear materials has improved modestly since the last summit, the capabilities of some terrorist groups, particularly the Islamic State, have grown dramatically, suggesting that in a net calculation, the risk of nuclear terrorism is higher than it was two years ago, William H. Tobey, a professor at Harvards Belfer Center, said in recent congressional testimony.

Last Decembers discovery of a video of the home of a senior official of a Belgian nuclear research center has heightened fears. The video was taken by people linked to the Paris terrorist attacks and to the Islamic State.

Japans plutonium delivery to the United States will slip in just in time to meet Japans pledge. But if Japan finishes its Rokkasho reprocessing facility, it will produce even more plutonium, adding to its large stockpiles and creating new security risks.

So weve made some modest progress . . . but there are some countries that are going in the other direction, Carl Robichaud, a program officer at the Carnegie Corp. of New York, said in a recent briefing. The new material could be as many as tens of weapons worth each year that would quickly dwarf the amount that has been blended down and eliminated, he said.

Ending reprocessing: Reprocessing plants, which can produce tons of dangerous material, have been shut down in Britain, France and Belgium, and one in the United States may never be finished.

However, in addition to Japans plant, new reprocessing plants have been completed or are under construction in Pakistan and India. China, which was given a green light in a nuclear cooperation agreement that the Obama administration approved, is considering construction of commercial-scale reprocessing plants. Russia is planning to build a new reprocessing plant, too, the Belfer Center report said.

These costly projects arent just bad commercially. They may also herald a new arms race in Northeast Asia, some fear, and heighten the danger of material finding its way into a terrorist bomb.

The real issue is the U.S. failure to address the threat posed by growing stockpiles of plutonium, Robert Gallucci, a former special envoy for nonproliferation at the State Department, wrote last year. The presidents approach to nuclear security may well make matters worse.

Russia: Russia poses many challenges, including corruption. From 2009 to 2012, the state nuclear company Rosatom fired 276 managers and executives for corruption. One helped run a reprocessing facility. It makes you nervous, said Bunn.

With its economy under pressure from low oil prices and international sanctions, Russia says it will cut budgets across the board and fire 10 percent of state employees this year. Rosatoms budget will not escape, meaning fewer funds to pay for security.

The level of U.S. assistance for securing Russias nuclear material that Nunn championed is over. And Russia in December 2014 severed nuclear security cooperation after the United States, as part of sanctions, cut off other nuclear energy cooperation.

Even as terrorist threats grow, conventional ones remain. Bruce Blair, a nuclear security expert at Princeton University, says the United States and Russia still have 1,700 weapons on launch ready alert. Blair has been urging both governments to relax their postures, but he said two senior administration officials told him it was not prudent. It was a bogus analysis, Blair said.

Dealing with Russia is the key to dealing with nuclear issues. We have to dance on the dance floor together, otherwise things dont happen, said Nunn. With both countries having the ability to destroy each other in a short time, the continuing posture, in my view, is very, very dangerous over a long period of time. Weve been fortunate.

Russias violation of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty and its refusal to negotiate reductions of non-strategic nuclear weapons, together with the growth of nuclear weapons arsenals in North Korea, Pakistan, and perhaps elsewhere, leave this goal [of nuclear security] more distant today than it was seven years ago, and with no visible path to achieving it, Tobey said.
REAL ESTATE

Pending home sales surprise forecasters

Contracts to purchase previously owned homes rebounded more than forecast in February as sales picked up in most of the United States, a good sign as the spring selling season approaches.

The pending home sales index climbed 3.5 percent, the biggest gain in a year, after a 3 percent decrease a month earlier that was larger than initially reported, the Washington-based National Association of Realtors (NAR) said Monday. The median projection in a survey of economists called for a 1.2 percent increase.

Three of four regions showed an increase in contract signings from a month earlier, led by an 11.4 percent jump in the Midwest. Contract signings also climbed 2.1 percent in the South and 0.7 percent in the West. They dropped 0.2 percent in the Northeast.

Purchases rose 5.1 percent in February from the previous year on an unadjusted basis, after a 1.5 percent decrease in the 12 months that ended in January, the report said.

The pending home sales index was 109.1 on a seasonally adjusted basis, the strongest since July. A reading of 100 corresponds with the average level of contract activity in 2001, or historically healthy home-buying traffic, according to the NAR.

 Bloomberg News

AIRLINES

JetBlue, Alaska Air bid for Virgin America

Virgin America received takeover offers from JetBlue Airways and Alaska Air after the carrier backed by billionaire Richard Branson put itself up for sale, according to people familiar with the matter.

Discussions between Virgin America and the two bidders are ongoing, and a deal could be announced as early as next week, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing private information. It is unclear whether other suitors will emerge, and Virgin America may yet decide to abandon sale negotiations in favor of remaining independent.

Last week, Bloomberg News reported that the carrier, which flies to destinations throughout the United States and Mexico, was working with financial advisers on a sale after receiving takeover interest. Virgin Americas stock has been up almost 10 percent since then, giving it a market capitalization of $1.3 billion.

Virgin America, based in Burlingame, Calif., sold stock in a $353 million initial public offering less than 18 months ago, pricing its shares at $23 apiece, data show.

Alaska spokeswoman Bobbie Egan said the company doesnt comment on rumors or speculation. JetBlue spokesman Doug McGraw said the carrier had the same policy. Virgin America didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

 Bloomberg News

Also in Business

 From news services

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Q: Last year, I purchased some fairly expensive throw pillows filled with feathers. Since then, they have become compressed and wont hold their shape once someone leans on them. Should I add to the filling, or is it best to have a professional revive them?

Crofton

A: You can do it yourself or seek help from an upholsterer. Either way, the feathers are almost certainly encased in an insert, rather than being stuffed directly into the decorative cover.

If the covers have zippers, take out the insert and decide either to replace it or add to the stuffing. If there are no zippers, evaluate your sewing skills and decide whether you want to turn the job over to a pro or are confident you can open up the seam, change the insert and get the seam closed again in a way that will satisfy you.

If you want pillows that spring back into shape on their own, the best solution is to abandon the existing filling and switch to inserts with synthetic stuffing. But be aware that youll sacrifice some of the cushy feeling. If you want to keep that, you can add stuffing, which serves to boost bulk and to adjust the mix of feather types, or buy firmer inserts that have a greater proportion of feathers to down.

This Quaker Lace tablecloth is starting to wear through. (Reader photo)

Down in a bird is the really soft component closest to the skin, said Evelyn Cannon, who with her husband, David, owns Cannon Upholstery in Bethesda (301-654-0090; cannonupholstery.com). There isnt much down in a bird, and it takes a whole lot to fill a pillow. So thats why its most expensive. Adding feathers reduces costs and also serves a practical purpose: The feathers are stiffer, so they dont compress as much. Cannon usually recommends 25 percent down and 75 percent feathers for throw pillows. Some other shops recommend 50-50.

If you want to add feathers on your own, you will need to open the insert cover by picking out stitches along part of one edge. A seam ripper, sold at fabric stores, is the best tool, but a pin and scissors work, too. For the stuffing, since you mention having multiple pillows to fill, you might want to buy a bed pillow or two and raid those, adding several handfuls of fill to each of your throw pillows. Two Puredown standard-size bed pillows, each with 29 ounces of fill (95 percent duck feathers, 5 percent down), cost $29.99 on Amazon . You can also buy feathers by the pound. A mix of 90 percent feathers and 10 percent down is about $16 on Amazon, but per ounce that comes to about twice the price of the bed pillow option.

Keeping the down from flying around the room and out of the seam as you stitch the insert closed is the biggest challenge. Its okay to mist the fill; just allow drying time before you put the pillows back in use.

If you opt to replace the inserts, rather than add to the existing ones, you can feel the various options at stores such as Crate & Barrel and Pottery Barn. Some fabric stores sell only synthetic inserts. Youll also find lots of options on the Web. Pacific Coast Feather Cushion sells an 18-by-18-inch insert with 95 percent duck feathers for about $12 on Amazon. But with an online purchase, its hard to tell whether you are getting more or fewer feathers than you have now. One solution is to weigh one of the current inserts and then make sure any new insert weighs more.

Or you can turn the job over to a pro. Cannon adds feathers to existing inserts for about $35 for an 18-inch-square pillow. If you want new inserts with 75 percent feathers and 25 percent down, the cost would be about $40 to $50 for an insert 21 inches by 21 inches, depending on how difficult it is to access the insert. (Cannon recommends using an insert thats bigger than the outer cover to ensure a plump look.) Cannon can also make new covers and stuff them for about $75 per pillow.

I have two Quaker Lace tablecloths that are beginning to wear through. They are at least 10 to 12 years old, possibly much older. I think they are 100 percent cotton. I would like to get them repaired. Does anyone repair lace these days?

Annandale

Parkway Custom Drycleaning in Chevy Chase (301-652-3377; parkwaydrycleaning.com) repairs lace tablecloths. But whether the job is worth the cost depends on the extent of the damage  and, of course, whether these tablecloths have sentimental value or whether youd come out ahead by buying replacement tablecloths.

Marina Trech, the seamstress at Parkway, and Jon Simon, the owner, looked at the pictures you sent. Simon noted two types of damage. In one picture, there is a straight, horizontal gap several inches long where the vertical threads are missing. Repairing that would cost about $10, he said. In the other picture, a couple of small areas have opened up. Fixing those would be about $5 each.

Its not a lot, Simon said. But if there are 50 places to repair, it adds up quickly. And if there are too many, we might not take the job. It generally makes sense to fix up to 10 to 15 problem areas, he said. But not if it is dozens and dozens. It would take hours and hours, and its a question of spending six hours on this versus helping 20 other customers.

Quaker Lace was always machine-made. A Philadelphia company that started out by importing lacemaking machines from England in 1894 changed its name to Quaker Lace in 1911. Its first products were lace for clothing and windows. The company began making tablecloths in 1932. Those eventually became the companys sole product line until it went into bankruptcy in 1992. Lorraine Linens then took over the brand until it, too, filed for bankruptcy, in 2007.

Today, its still possible to buy Quaker Lace tablecloths  but only through stores, garage sales and online businesses that specialize in vintage goods. The tablecloths are primarily 100 percent cotton. But advertisements from the 1950s also note the availability of tablecloths made of Orlon (a DuPont trademark for acrylic fiber) and cotton-rayon.

Have a problem in your home? Send questions to localliving@washpost.com . Put How To in the subject line, tell us where you live and try to include a photo.


Wes Conners, 10, visits with a goat at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon. (Photos by Ann Cameron Siegal)

A visit to Frying Pan Farm Park is a step back in time and a treat for your senses. See, hear, smell and touch things that were common on a family farm during the 1920s through the 1950s.

Recently, exclamations of Wow! rang out as visitors got their first peek at a baby goat born only hours before. Ewww! exclaimed one youngster who caught her first whiff of the pig pen. Visitors gently stroked the backs of goats, sheep and pigs as cows and roosters made their presence known nearby.

Some Cub Scouts from Herndon made connections between what they saw and their own family experiences. Daniel Valkaer, 9, fascinated at seeing tractors from the early 1900s, said, My dad and grandpa grew up on farms, and Grandpa still has two tractors.

William Malyszka, 10, said: I really love the sheep. My mom knows how to spin their wool.

Only four miles from Washington Dulles International Airport, Frying Pan Farm Park offers a peek at a way of life far different from our technology-filled lives. It wasnt that long ago that western Fairfax County had many family farms and was one of the largest dairy-producing communities in Virginia.

Bring your family and a picnic and spend the day exploring.



These 3-week-old piglets at Frying Pan Farm Park will weigh about 250 pounds by midsummer.

Visitors to Frying Pan Farm Park in May can see sheep shearing.

Start your visit at the parks visitor center, housed in a converted 1896 dairy barn. Explore the small interactive museum to learn about the lives of those who lived on and near this property. Find out which chores children did. Test your knowledge of milk and cows. See historical photos of the property before it became a county park. Youll notice that the landscape and many of the buildings still look very similar.

Follow the gravel path to the Kidwell Farm section to see springs newest baby animals. Chat with the farmhands and imagine what it would have been like to live there  to plow the fields with draft horses; to plant, tend and harvest the crops; to care for the animals. At 4 p.m. each day, visitors are invited to help milk a cow.

Occasionally, there are tours of the 1930s-era farmhouse. Long before the Internet and television, radios were much larger and refrigerators much smaller than what we use today. See how houses were heated then. Notice how different a toddlers stroller was from todays fancy styles.

At the farms General Store, borrow an activity backpack to use while exploring the hiking trails winding through the woods behind the park. Search for a small hidden waterfall while doing activities that will help you earn a Junior Ranger patch. The dirt path requires navigating over rocks and roots along a creek.

Youll walk past the equestrian center, where students learn to ride horses or practice for shows.

Dimitris Ipiotis, 8, exploring the park with his twin brother, Miltos, said Frying Pan Farm Park is special because you can have some alone time with nature. And, whenever you go, youll always see something different.



Daniel Valkaer, 9, left, and Wilson Purdue, 10, watch baby lambs get some exercise at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon.

If you go

What: Frying Pan Farm Park.

Where: 2739 West Ox Road, Herndon.

When: Park is open daily dawn to dusk. Farm is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How much: Admission to the park is free. Some activities such as wagon rides, the carousel (opening mid-April) and special events have a fee.

For more information: A parent can visit fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fryingpanpark for upcoming activities and a schedule of animal births.
Zilch. Every. Dang. Year.

Weve entered the White House Easter Egg Roll lottery for years now, hoping each time that we would be one of 35,000 families lucky enough to get tickets to play on the South Lawn, to post those glorious Facebook pictures in front of the South Portico.

And every year, we came up snake eyes. Until now. Yesss!

And this was the year to win, not only because the boys are reaching tweendom, when eye-rolling will replace egg rolling and this will only be another occasion for me to embarrass them. But because it was the last chance well have to celebrate the holiday at the White House during the historic Obama presidency.

[Photos: See the Obamas as they host their final Easter Egg Roll]

1 of 18 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad  See the Obamas as they host their last Easter egg roll View Photos Celebrities and the Easter Bunny make appearances at the annual White House event. Caption Celebrities and the Easter Bunny make appearances at the annual White House event. March 28, 2016 A young boy sits on a mans shoulders as they attend the White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn in Washington. Andrew Harnik/AP Wait 1 second to continue.

It was a common sentiment among families at the egg roll and bittersweet for many.

The truth is, we may not see this again in our lifetime, an African American family in the White House, said Carla Backus, 51, a federal worker from Temple Hills, Md.

With all the backlash, with all the bitterness they endured. It was important for us to be there today. It was emotional, said Backus, who came with her 9-year-old son, Robert Richardson. Its important for me that my son see people who look like us in the White House.

For more than a century, the White House Easter Egg Roll has commanded a special place on Washingtons calendar and in the hearts of people from around the region.

This years egg roll was even a little memorable (and frightening). The White House was put on lockdown Monday afternoon; visitors were briefly not allowed to leave or enter 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue after a shooting at the Capitol Visitor Center. Capitol Police opened fire on a man with a gun; a suspect was taken into custody and a bystander was injured, police said.

[Man with gun shot by police at Capitol Visitor Center]

There wasnt that much drama at the first White House Easter Egg Roll, held in 1878, after Congress passed legislation banning children from rolling eggs  this was a really big thing back then  on the Capitol lawn because they shredded the turf.

Michelle Obama showed a White House crowd her attempt at the Nae Nae March 28. The first lady tried the popular dance move during the annual Easter egg roll. (Reuters)

So in the eternal game of executive vs. legislative chess, President Rutherford B. Hayes invited the Districts children to play on his lawn.

Take that, Congress.

It became a tradition for decades after that, with brief suspensions during wars or tough times. And for all those years, it was notoriously white event. In 1953, first lady Mamie Eisenhower saw black children peering in from outside the White House gates and insisted that black families be included in events in the following years.

In 2006, a coalition of gay and lesbian families, sick of hiding in plain sight, joined to make their presence known at one of Americas most family-friendly events and to show the George W. Bush administration that they are no different from other American families.

[In 2006, newcomers join the White House egg roll line]

Hundreds of gay and lesbian parents waited in line overnight  it used to be that the general public could snag tickets after camping out all night on the Ellipse  to get a good chunk of tickets. They wore rainbow leis to call attention to themselves, but otherwise did what every other American family does at the event  they smiled, suffered in long lines, rolled eggs and took a bazillion pictures.

First lady Michelle Obama knows how much has changed in the 10 years since then.

Today is a little bit bittersweet for us, because this is the Obama administrations last Easter Egg Roll, the first lady said, as the crowd awwwed back to her.

Yes. And if we think about what weve accomplished over these past seven years, its pretty incredible, she said. Because when Barack and I first got here, one of the goals that we had was to open up the White House to as many people from as many backgrounds as possible.

Mission accomplished. There were families from all 50 states on the lawn Monday and from every racial and ethnic background. But it was especially powerful for the African American families in attendance.

Theresa Mattison, 60, drove all night from Michigan.

We really wanted to be here. And we wanted her to be here, too, to be able to say she was here, Mattison said, pointing to her 18-month-old granddaughter, Luna.

A retired school principal from Detroit, Mattison had never been to the White House before.

For lots of African Americans, the connection to the nations seat of power has never been more tangible. More emotional.

Its hard to believe he wont be there next year, Backus said, after she stepped outside the last of the White House gates and looked back. Id like to come back again next year. But it wont be the same.

Because next year, who knows?

As we waited in line to take a picture with some yellow Minions, my 9-year-old saw a woman wearing a hijab.

Do you think Muslims will be allowed to come here next year? he asked.

His older brother rolled his eyes.

If Trump wins, it might be like the Hunger Games, and kids might have to fight each other for the eggs, the 11-year-old snarked, about Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump.

Or if Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton wins, the egg roll might be another chance to witness another ground-breaking president.

Twitter: @petulad
James Kiracofe, 11, of Troop 52 in Chevy Chase, Md., checks out a tent that he and other Boy Scouts have set up for inspection. (John Kelly/The Washington Post)

Everyone knows that the key to being a Boy Scout is to be prepared. But its hard to be prepared for a hike without hiking boots, for a camp-out without a tent, for a troop meeting without a uniform.

And thats why a handful of Boy Scouts from Troops 52 and 100  two of the nations oldest  spent Saturday afternoon in a Silver Spring warehouse sorting, inspecting, cleaning and fixing equipment for needy fellow Scouts.

Seventeen backpacks leaned against the wall. Canteens and mess kits were arranged on a tarp. And a group of Scouts wrestled with a tent. The only way to tell whether it was usable was to put it up.

Oh, this is a big one, said William Kiracofe, 15, as the two-room family tent finally sproinged into shape. He and his brother James, 11, and Scouts Alex Penberthy, 11, and Daniel Snee, 11, stood back and examined their handiwork.

The District used to have one of the countrys most active Scouting scenes. At one time, there were 120 troops within the city limits.

Old uniforms such as these are among the items of clothing and equipment some D.C.-area Boy Scout troops collect for the use of needy Scouts. (John Kelly/The Washington Post)

Today theres only eight, said P-B Bielak, a local Boy Scouting historian and one of the organizers of HOSTING: Helping Other Scout Troops Incorporate Needed Gear.

This new program is making a commitment that no Scout should be kept from going Scouting because of uniform or equipment needs, P-B said.

The idea is that any local boy who wants to be a Scout but cant afford a uniform will get one. Any Scout who wants to go on a camp-out but cant afford a tent will get one. The same goes with the other accouterments: backpacks, boots, pocketknives.

In this area, weve got a lot of people with gear sitting around collecting dust in someones garage, basement or attic, said Will Stone, scoutmaster of Troop 52. Over the coming weeks, theyll be welcoming any and all donations.

At the Silver Spring warehouse, moms Hedda Garland and Edda Zoli were examining donated uniforms, noting their size, checking for rips, removing unnecessary patches and sewing on the appropriate ones.

One lady, she took 600 uniforms to the laundromat and got seven of the largest industrial washing machines, and she washed them all, P-B said. It took five hours, I think. Every uniform we donate we can say was cleaned.

Although Scouting has taken a hit in the District  especially in poorer neighborhoods, among families where male role models would be appreciated  the larger National Capital Area Council is fairly robust. Falling under its umbrella are 78,000 Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts in 1,500 troops and packs stretching from Frederick, Md., to Fredericksburg, Va. (For odd reasons, Scouts in the Virgin Islands also fall under the National Capital Area Council.)

The Districts Troop 100 was established in 1917. Troop 52, from Chevy Chase, Md., dates to 1913, and is the home troop of Pascal Tessier, who in 2014 became the first openly gay Eagle Scout. (Last summer, the Boy Scouts eliminated the national restriction on openly gay Scout leaders, though local troops can still use sexuality as a criterion when selecting adults.)

[Washingtons oldest scout troop also its most well-connected.]

So far, more than 3,000 pieces of uniform and bits of equipment have been donated, including sleeping bags that were being unrolled and checked for dead spiders. Troop 8, from Chevy Chase, Md., and Troop 104 from Arlington, Va., are also active in the donation program.

Heres what the Scouts are looking for: clothing (Cub Scout and Boy Scout shirts and, especially, pants in any size; usable clean coats; hiking or wool socks; hats); hiking boots in any size; camping equipment (backpacks, sleeping bags, tents, cooking gear, compasses, camp saws, pocketknives and first-aid kits); and Scout gear (Pinewood Derby kits, merit badge pamphlets, Scout patches).

To arrange to drop off a donation, email scout.hosting@gmail.com or call 301-656-3600.

The Girl Scouts tell me that they also welcome uniforms and equipment, though on a more informal basis currently. If you have stuff for them, email customercare@gscnc.org or call 202-237-1670.

Reuniting

A few more upcoming reunions:

Bethesda-Chevy Chase High Class of 1986  April 30. Visit www.bcc1986.com.

DuVal High Class of 1969  June 25. Welcome to Medicare Party. Contact duvalreunion09

@yahoo.com.

Theodore Roosevelt High Classes of 1956 and 1957  Sept 9. Email Waltere8805

@verizon.net.

Elizabeth Seton High Class of 1966  April 22 and 23. Visit www.setonhs.org/classof1966.

Wakefield High Class of 1966  Oct. 14-16. Email classof1966

@wakefieldalumni.org.

Washington-Lee High Class of 1966  Sept. 16-17. Email WLHS1966@yahoo.com or visit sites.google.com/site/wlclassof1966/come_66.

Charles W. Woodward High Class of 1976  June 11. Email Dorian Janney at dorian.janney

@gmail.com.

Yorktown High (Arlington) Class of 1966  May 13-15. E-mail Betsy Thompson Brady at betbrady@gmail.com.

Twitter: @johnkelly

For previous columns, visit washingtonpost.com/johnkelly.
An article in Sundays Washington Post examined the inspiration for a plan in D.C. to pay 50 of its most violent residents stipends, possibly $1,000 a month, if they stay active in a mentorship program  and refrain from killing.

The controversial approach is modeled on an experiment in Richmond, Calif., where city politicians and the police chief call it a success. There, 84 of 88 participants over the last five years remain alive and the city has a homicide rate that, despite a recent uptick, remains half of what it was when the program began.

[Cities begin to challenge a bedrock of justice: Theyre paying criminals not to kill]

D.C. could be the first of a dozen major cities across the United States to try to replicate the program. But doing so will not be easy. Here are five of the reasons why:

DeVone Boggan is the director of the Office of Neighborhood Safety in Richmond, Calif. (Jahi Chikwendiu/The Washington Post)

1. As the saying goes, crime doesnt pay. But taxpayers would.

In Richmond, city-paid mentors have for five years been handing out checks of up to $1,000 a month to alleged gang members and suspected shooters if they continue to work toward a life without guns. The mentors say that they dont know where the money goes and that they may not always want to know.

One participant, in fact, was receiving payments when he killed another participant in the program.

But administrators of the Richmond program have maintained broad latitude to continue handing out the payments because the money has come exclusively from private donors.

In D.C., however, roughly a half-million dollars in taxpayer money annually would go directly to the citys most violent residents, according to a city analysis of the bill. Some critics have raised concerns about liability for the District should one of the individuals receiving money go on to commit a violent crime.

And while there is a provision in the D.C. measure to allow the program to raise private funds, as Richmond does, the donations would be funneled through a city account with checks issued by the District.

Will D.C. taxpayers go along with the program once they learn the details?

2. Government-sanctioned anonymity for the most violent.

When a participant in the Richmond program gets caught with a gun  or worse  the city-paid mentors all but disavow the participant until he runs his course through the justice system and returns to the street.

Thats because the only way to be tapped for participation in the Richmond program is for its administrators to consider a recruit an active firearm offender  sometimes for crimes in which police did not have enough evidence for an arrest.

DeVone Boggan, the founder of the Richmond program, believes acknowledging a participants status in the program could therefore do a participant more harm than good in the eyes of a judge, police or rival gang members.

To help shield participants identities, Boggan has also set up a nonprofit to dispense the stipends, leaving no publicly available record of those who received stipends.

To give participants in D.C. the same kind of anonymity, D.C. Council member Kenyan R. McDuffie (D-Ward 5), the author of the measure, included a provision allowing the District to withhold under public records laws any documents identifying participants.

This is D.C., though, so expect that to be challenged in court.

3. Messy interactions with police are inevitable.

Last July, two mentors in Richmond say they were transporting two fellows home to keep them from retaliating for a shooting when they were pulled over by city police. Officers found an illegal gun on a fellow and handcuffed not only the participant but the mentors too.

The incident is one of several messy episodes that can arise between civilian leaders of the program and police  even when authorities say they are fully behind the program.

In D.C., the tension between police and the program could be worse.

D.C. Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier says she does not see a need for the program and has not seen evidence it is as effective as supporters in Richmond say it is.

4. The support of the mayor is critical

In D.C., the new mentorship program would be run by an office that does not yet exist and that would reside within the mayors administration.

Mayor Muriel E. Bowser, however, has shown little interest in the proposal approved unanimously by the D.C. Council. She has said the city should focus its resources on more traditional job-training programs, and she did not include funding for the new office in her budget proposal released last week.

McDuffie, the head of the Judiciary Committee, will likely be able to restore funding for creating the office. But it will be still be up to Bowser to help carry out setting up the office and making it a success.

If not, the program could go the way of similar  and now defunct  efforts over the past two decades in Chicago, Boston and Pittsburgh. None of those paid criminals directly but tried intense outreach to the citys most violent, often through the help of ex-convicts.

5. Theres only one DeVone Boggan.

For the controversial program to succeed in D.C., or anywhere else, it will need its own DeVone Boggan.

The founder of the Richmond program has a degree in law and career in nonprofit work but could be a motivational speaker. He has inspired loyalty from mentors, politicians and fundraisers.

And he has, according to one reviewer, figured out how to set aside questions about the morality of paying criminals and kept the objective focused pragmatically on results.

D.C. would need a director like him to see results like those in Richmond.
Celebrations outside the Supreme Court after its historic decision on gay marriage in 2015. Advocates say more should be done to protect LGBT rights. (Mladen Antonov/AFP/Getty Images)

Researchers are calling on the federal government to begin collecting information about LGBT students experiences at the nations schools, arguing that such data collection is necessary to protect against disproportionate rates of suspension and expulsion.

When we fail to ask questions about youths sexual orientation and gender identity, we fail to understand, support, and protect all students from discrimination in schools, wrote a group of researchers in a brief paper published Sunday by Indiana Universitys Equity Project.

Embedded in that argument, though, is a call to begin asking students to declare their gender identity and sexual orientation at school  a move that the Equity Project acknowledges is fraught with privacy concerns.

Disclosing ones LGBT identity, or coming out to others, could create unique stressors for LGBT youth, the projects paper says. Such action may place LGBT students at risk for rejection, discrimination, negative mental health outcomes, or lack of support from family.

But the authors argue that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students would, on balance, benefit from more comprehensive data about how they are faring in the nations schools. Its just that kind of information, they argue, that has undergirded battles to protect the civil rights of other minorities during the past half-century.

The federal government, for example, regularly collects information about suspensions and expulsions at schools nationwide and then separates that information by students race and disability status. Those numbers  part of the Education Departments Civil Rights Data Collection  have shown that black and disabled students are far more likely to be suspended or expelled than white or non-disabled students, forcing officials at every level of government to reckon with whether school discipline systems are fair.

But the federal government doesnt track such statistics by gender identity or sexual orientation.

Study after study has shown that LGBT students are also more likely than other students to be bullied and harassed at school, and new research also has shown that these students are more likely to be suspended and expelled.

But advocates say that without a more comprehensive effort to gather data about LGBT students, there is no way to fully understand  or remedy  the harms that such students face at school.

Because schools and districts are not required to collect data on sexual orientation or gender identity, researchers, advocates, and the general public cannot fully understand the extent to which LGBT students are differentially harassed or disciplined, the Equity Project says. The absence of such data also limits our ability to monitor the effectiveness of interventions to reduce the harms that LGBT students experience.

The federal government already administers health surveys in which students are asked to anonymously report their sexual orientation; the Equity Project suggests that those surveys begin incorporating questions about school discipline. Similarly, existing surveys on school climate and safety could ask students to report anonymously their sexual orientation.

The Education Department could also begin asking schools to report on suspension and expulsion of LGBT students for its national Civil Rights Data Collection, a move researchers said would be more likely if Congress passed legislation prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation.
The heavy hauls along Route 15 have ended.

While most of us were sleeping, hundreds of tons of heavy machinery have been rumbling slowly through Prince William and Loudoun counties and across the southern edge of Leesburg. The hauls  36 in all over the past five months  have been delivering bulky components for the Panda Stonewall power plant that is being constructed off Sycolin Road at Goose Creek.

Bechtel is building the Stonewall Energy Center in partnership with Siemens for Panda Power Funds, the Dallas-based owner of the plant, Bechtel spokeswoman Jane Griffin said.

The project has been billed as a clean energy plant, fueled by natural gas with advanced emissions control technology, and using reclaimed water from the town of Leesburg to cool the boilers. The plant is being built near existing power lines, Griffin said.

After the plant becomes operational in May 2017, it will supply enough power for 778,000 homes at peak capacity, said Andy Gillespie, the project manager and an engineer for Bechtel.

The hauling was overnight, between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., to minimize the disruption to traffic, Gillespie said.

There was little evidence that the hauls were taking place at the time, except for signs flashing warnings of impending road closures and detours, and streams of email and text alerts from the Loudoun County Sheriffs Office updating the progress of each haul.

The transports started in Gainesville, where the heavy components  gas and steam turbines, boiler modules, transformers and generators  were carefully lifted off rail cars. Edwards Moving & Rigging hauled them along a 29-mile course, north on Route 15, then to Battlefield Parkway in Leesburg, across the Dulles Greenway and onto Sycolin Road.

The size and weight of the components posed a significant challenge. The bulkiest were the 24 boiler modules, each weighing about 200 tons and stretching 120 feet in length  the height of a seven-story building when upright, Gillespie said. The heaviest were the generators, weighing more than 280 tons, he said.

This took a year and a half of planning, to get all of these modules here, Gillespie said. When you build a project like this, our job is [to] manage risks. And we knew this was essentially a risk. Heavy haul always is.

During the planning phase, the projects managers coordinated with the Virginia Department of Transportation to make sure every bridge and roadway could support the loads. Traffic signals had to be raised at some intersections to make way for the boiler modules, which are 19 feet high even when horizontal, Gillespie said.

For most of the hauls, a truck pulled the load on a Goldhofer transporter  a flatbed trailer with 144 wheels, 18 from front to back and eight across. Another truck pushed from behind.

Moving the generators required two trucks pulling and two more pushing from behind. To disperse the weight, the generator was positioned on a girder supported by two Goldhofers, Gillespie said. Those hauls crept so slowly that they took place over two nights, stopping midway at Gilberts Corner in Aldie.

The project managers devised a procedure Gillespie called crabbing to move the heaviest hauls across the bridge over Interstate 66. So that all the weight would not be on one side of the bridge, the two Goldhofers were maneuvered across the bridge, with one on each side of the center median and the girder bearing the generator crossing diagonally between them.

During each haul, a VDOT crew removed street signs where necessary to make way for the behemoths, and a second crew trailing the haul replaced them, Gillespie said.

In an interview on March 16, before the last two hauls, Gillespie said he was looking forward to the end of the hauling process.

Its a feeling of great satisfaction, because theres just so much effort, he said. So [after] a year and a half of planning, theres nothing quite like when the plan has come together.

Gillespie said that he received progress reports via text messages throughout each haul, and was always relieved when the last one came, usually about 4 a.m., notifying him that the load arrived safely.

Early Friday morning, he received the last text. The generator had arrived.
A former aide to Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) is accused of improperly collaborating with the governors office after being appointed on an interim basis to the state Public Service Commission. (Gail Burton/AP)

A Maryland Senate panel Monday delayed its confirmation vote for a former aide to Gov. Larry Hogan (R) who has been accused of improperly collaborating with the governors office while serving as an interim member of the Public Service Commission.

Michael T. Richard, whom Hogan has nominated to fill the commission spot permanently, faced tough questions from the Senate Executive Nominations Committee about whether his communications with the administration amounted to an attempt to give the governor an upper hand in influencing decisions by the commission.

The committee did not set a new date for the confirmation vote.

According to emails obtained by the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, Richard gave information to his former colleagues in the governors office about an offshore wind-power companys application for renewable-energy credits and sought information from them as the commission was weighing a ruling on a solar energy project.

Public Citizen and the Energy and Policy Institute, a clean-energy advocacy group, said the communications create a disturbing picture of undue influence over decisions before the purportedly independent Public Service Commission and could amount to talking to decision-makers without input from other interested parties.

Richard, who joined the commission in January, said he was merely helping aides transition into his former role with the administration and keeping the governors staff updated on the status of various deliberations without divulging sensitive information.

He added that members of the commission, which regulates Maryland utilities, taxi companies, railroads and telecommunications companies, regularly talked to him about similar matters when he was Hogans deputy chief of staff.

I am sorry that I created a doubt about my independence, Richard said. The way I saw these activities is trying to be very conscientious about handing off my portfolio.

Several Democratic lawmakers pressed Richard on his responses.

Cant you see theres a reasonable question of whose team youre on? asked Sen. James Brochin (D-Baltimore County).

Hogan spokesman Matt Clark called Richard an incredibly qualified person and said it was entirely appropriate for members of the PSC to take input from a variety of sources, including industry, advocacy organizations, the legislature and the governors office.

But the emails obtained by Public Citizen show Richard acting as more of an administration advocate and informer than an independent commissioner seeking guidance.

This is NOT yet public information, but I wanted you to be aware, Richard wrote Jan. 29 to Adam Dubitsky, Hogans policy director, about an offshore wind-power companys application for renewable energy credits.

In short, there will be a 30-day internal review. . . . So, there is time to form an Administration position and response. Again, this is for your information only.

In another email, Richard asked Dubitsky for a statement from the Maryland Energy Administration, which advises the governor on energy policy, saying it would bolster Richards efforts to scale back the ambitions of a solar energy initiative.

Adam, I can use your help in Community Solar rule making process, he wrote to Dubitsky in February. Another Administration statement on the pilot project size not exceeding 150MW would be helpful (so far Ive only been able to talk the other commissioners down to 218MW) . . . lets discuss a possible statement via MEA that I can use to vigorously assert the Governors office position on this.

Advocates argued that a commissioner feeding the administration information about internal deliberations would create a potential conflict of interest, especially because the executive branch could use that information when filing briefs aimed at influencing the commissions rulemaking.

Clark noted that Hogans predecessor, Martin OMalley (D), also appointed members of his administration to the Public Service Commission  and the nominees were criticized for email exchanges they had with the panel while working for OMalley.

Those criticisms were raised by Republicans, and the appointees were defended by Democrats, Clark said.

I reject that there is some kind of nuanced difference between what were seeing today and what we saw four years ago, Clark said.
Will Jawando, left, and David Trone shake hands before a forum with candidates for Maryland's 8th Congressional District on March 12 in Takoma Park. (Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post)

With less than a month left until the April 26 primary, Democratic congressional candidates in Marylands District 8 continue to collect endorsements.

Will Jawando has won the support of Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), the civil rights icon. Lewis said in a statement that Jawando, a former congressional and White House aide,will be an advocate and ally on the issues that matter most to our community; reducing gun violence, protecting our right to vote, and securing equal pay for equal work.

Jawando, the only African American in the nine-candidate Democratic field, has also been endorsed by former Environmental Protection Agency administrator Lisa Jackson, former U.S. education secretary Arne Duncan, former NAACP president Ben Jealous, Montgomery County Council member Craig Rice (D-Germantown ) and Montgomery County Board of Education member Christopher S. Barclay.

[Jawando cries foul in losing African American Democratic Club endorsement ]

Businessman David Trone was endorsed this week by former U.S. education secretary and South Carolina governor Richard Riley, who said the wine retailer and philanthropist would be a champion for public education.

We need David Trone in Congress, Riley said in a statement.

Trones company, Total Wine & More, covers the costs of GEDs for employees and has a program to cover the full cost of college through a partnership in two states, including Maryland. As a congressional candidate, he favors universal prekindergarten and programs to make college more affordable.

Trone and Riley are alumni of Furman University in Greenville, S.C. Riley is a former chairman of the schools board of trustees, and Trone is a current member. In 2012, Trone contributed $500,000 to the endowment of the Richard W. Riley Institute of Government, Politics and Public Leadership at Furman.

Kathleen Matthews, whose list of endorsements from elected officials includes a number of congressional Democrats, got a boost last week from state Del. Bill Frick (D-Montgomery), whose legislative district includes about 75,000 8th Congressional District voters.

As a member of Congress, Kathleen Matthews will be a tremendous spokesperson for Democratic values and a pragmatic advocate for working families and the middle class, Frick said.
Authorities in Alexandria have identified a man who died at a jail there over the weekend.

Diego Silva-Fuentes, 54, of Puerto Rico, died while in custody, officials said.

He was being housed in a medical unit at the jail and experienced a medical emergency on Saturday night. Fuentes was being held on federal charges. The details of his charges were not released.

He was transported to an area hospital where he died.

The Alexandria Sheriffs office and Alexandria police are investigating the incident.

Michael Smith contributed to this report.
Several people were injured over the weekend in separate shooting and stabbing incidents in Southeast and Northwest Washington.

Police in the District said they have made no arrests in any of the incidents. The victims had injuries that were not life-threatening.

One of the incidents happened Saturday about 4 a.m. in the 2500 block of Alabama Avenue SE, when a man walking toward a gas station was approached by a suspect and stabbed, police said. He was taken to a hospital for stab wounds, and police said there were no details on a possible suspect or suspects.

Just before 5 a.m. Saturday, another stabbing happened in the 1300 block of North Capitol Street NW. Police said they received a call for an assault with a dangerous weapon. When officers arrived, they found a man who had been stabbed. He was taken to a hospital. There was no information about a suspect or suspects in the case.

A third incident happened about 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the 4300 block of Third Street SE. A man suffered gunshot wounds and was taken to a hospital. The attacker fled in an unknown direction, police said.

A fourth incident occurred about 10:30 p.m. Sunday in the 5000 block of Bass Place SE, when officers responded to a report of gunshots. When they arrived, they found two women who were conscious and breathing but suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. They were taken to hospitals. There were no details on a suspect or suspects.
Stefanie Sue Watson of Laurel in an undated photo. Watson went missing on her way to work in 1982. (Family photo)

Stefanie Sue Watson vanished on her way to work in the summer of 1982. Her car was found covered in blood, but she was not there. None of her remains were recovered except for a small piece of her skull.

The case went cold for decades until a DNA breakthrough in 2013 connected Watsons killing to a man already in prison for an unrelated rape.

Now, nearly 34 years since Watson, 27, went missing, the case of her brutal slaying is closed. Prosecutors in Prince Georges County announced Monday that John Ernest Walsh pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and false imprisonment in Watsons death.

We hope that this will go a long way toward continued healing and closure for the victims family, said John Erzen, a spokesman for the Prince Georges states attorneys office.

[DNA match leads to arrest in 1982 death of Laurel woman.]

Stefanie Sue Watson disappeared in Laurel on July 22, 1982. John Ernest Walsh was convicted of her murder 33 years later. DNA evidence solved the cold case, police say. (Aaron C. Davis/The Washington Post)

Walsh, 71, was sentenced to 33 years in prison after entering his plea in Watsons death. He must serve the time on top of 72 years he received as a sentence in 1970 after he was convicted of first-degree rape and kidnapping.

Walsh had been in Marylands prison hospital for years before he was released on parole in 1980. He brutally beat and killed Watson before he was taken into custody again in 1989 for violating parole, police and prosecutors said.

Police think Walsh bludgeoned Watson while she was in the drivers seat of her car in July 1982. Watson, a receptionist at a hospital in Laurel, did not make it to work or to a scheduled meet-up with a cousin, Chris Torres, in Pennsylvania the next day. Torres reported Watson missing.

Watson was planning to drop off her dog with Torress mother before she moved to Texas to be closer to her family.

She was ready for a fresh start, Torres said Monday. What were the chances that she would disappear her last night in Laurel?

Months later, witnesses saw a man dump a bag in the woods. Police recovered a skull fragment but nothing else, and the case went cold.

Then in 2013, police revisited Watsons killing. Still in possession of the drivers seat of her car, police arranged testing of a smear of blood on a section of the seat that a driver could not have reached.

The blood sample yielded a positive hit.

[Breakthrough in cold case reopens controversial chapter in Md. corrections.]

Police and prosecutors worked 15 months combing through databases to connect the DNA to Walsh and ensure their evidence was airtight before securing an indictment.

A lawyer representing Walsh could not be reached for comment.

Detective Bernie Nelson with the Prince Georges police cold-case unit said it is a relief to get some closure on an old case like Watsons, which had a very high profile when it broke.

A lot of people lose hope when cases get very old, Nelson said. We tell them to maintain hope and that something may break at any time.

Torres said she is glad that police and prosecutors in Prince Georges did not give up on her cousins case. But the years in between, before any break in the case occurred, were torture, she said. That Walsh had preyed on Watson with decades left in his sentence adds to the disappointment, Torres said.

Youre just in limbo and always wondering if it would ever happen, Torres said. Its been a very long and horrible nightmare to live.

In the nearly 34 years since Watsons killing, her parents and brother have passed away. Her lone surviving immediate family member, sister Peg Adams, said Walshs guilty plea is bittersweet, bringing all that sadness to the foreground again.

And, Adams said, important questions remain: How did Watson cross Walshs path? Where is Watsons body?

Adams said she hopes Walsh will lead detectives to the answers.

I would like to be able to bury her, Adams said. Weve never stopped missing her.

Aaron C. Davis contributed to this report.
A third man has been arrested in the slaying of a Loudoun County bank-scammer turned jailhouse informant who was found fatally shot February inside his pickup truck.

Donald Deon Clay, 48, of Manassas, has been charged with murder, conspiracy to commit murder and robbery in the slaying of Osama El-Atari, 37, according to court records. Last month, police had arrested Eric DeAngelo Garris, 29, of Waldorf, and Taqwa Muhammad, 26, of Lusby in connection with the case.

[Two men arrested in killing of former jail informant in Maryland]

El-Atari became notable after he was sentenced to 12 years in prison for defrauding the banks of $54 million. He was later released from prison early after becoming a jailhouse informant. In one case, an ex-Marine confessed to El-Atari that he had killed two little girls in Illinois .

Prince Georges County police have said, however, it doesnt appear that El-Ataris killing had anything to do with his past but was rather part of a targeted robbery.

[Osama El-Atari, flashy Loudoun scammer, converts jailhouse info to prison release.]

Clay arranged for Garris and Muhammad to meet with El-Atari in Capitol Heights, where they held up El-Atari at gunpoint and drove him to Upper Marlboro on Feb. 10, according to charging documents. One of the men shot El-Atari before the trio took El-Ataris Rolex and $100, the documents state.

Clay told detectives that he had expected to obtain much more from the robbery and was going to pay Garris and Muhammad from the proceeds, charging documents say. Clay planned and set up the armed robbery, which occurred at his direction.
A woman who earlier this month was rescued from a burning apartment building by a D.C. firefighter who took off his breathing mask and gave it to her has died at a hospice center in Virginia, according to her niece.

Phyliss Terrell, 64, a great-grandmother who worked at the federal Office of Personnel Management, died Thursday, two weeks after a fire broke out in an apartment next to hers on the third floor in the 1700 block of Minnesota Avenue SE.

[D.C. firefighter puts his breathing mask on woman trapped in fire]

Terrell was leaning out her window when firefighters arrived at the scene about 4 p.m. on March 9. She told relatives she was about to jump when D.C. firefighter Danny Lovato, an 11-year veteran, pulled up in Truck 7, grabbed a ladder and threw it against the wall.

Lovato climbed to nearly the top rung, but found it too dangerous to pull Terrell out. The 39-year-old firefighter pulled off his breathing mask and put it on Terrells face, sacrificing the air from the tank on his back. They stayed like that for several minutes, until other firefighters could reach the woman from the inside. A photo posted online by D.C. police showed Lovatos torso on the ladder, his head engulfed in a cloud of toxic smoke.

He took a beating to protect that woman, Ed Smith, president of the firefighters union, said at the time.

Terrell and Lovato were rushed to MedStar Washington Hospital Center and were treated in rooms across the hall. They met a few days later. Terrells son-in-law, Robert Thornton, said in early March that she cant believe that he came up and got her. . . . If it wasnt for that firefighter, my mother wouldnt be here anymore.

Lovato suffered smoke inhalation and was released from the hospital after a few days. Terrell remained hospitalized in serious condition and doctors were initially optimistic she would recover.

But her niece, Wanda Terrell, 54, said that she suffered a lung infection. Wanda Terrell also said her aunt had prior health problems and was using oxygen before the fire. She said her aunt was moved to a hospice about a week ago. Funeral plans had not been set as of Monday.

Wanda Terrell said the family is grateful to Lovato and other firefighters and police officers who helped with the rescue and gave her and us a few extra weeks.

D.C. fire officials have not commented on the suspected cause of the fire, but Terrells family said they were told by officials it was due to a faulty furnace in an apartment next to where Phyliss Terrell had lived.
Former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.) and her husband, Mark Kelly, on Tuesday will bring their national campaign for stricter gun laws to Virginia.

The move comes about a month after Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) signed into law a package of gun bills resulting from a compromise with Republican lawmakers and the National Rifle Association.

The deal cost McAuliffe support of some of his strongest allies in the fight for gun control, but Giffords and Kelly, a Navy combat veteran and retired NASA astronaut, have not taken a public position on it.

Americans for Responsible Solutions  the group they formed after Giffords was seriously wounded in a 2011 shooting in Tucson that killed six people  helped fund McAuliffes failed attempt last year to win control of the state Senate.

On Tuesday, Giffords and Kelly will introduce a panel of advocates from law enforcement, faith, domestic violence prevention and mental health communities, a strategy they also followed in New Hampshire, Minnesota, Oregon, and  as of Monday  Delaware.

In December, Virginia's attorney general announced it would no longer honor concealed-carry handgun permits from 25 states. Now thanks to a bipartisan deal with the governor, that declaration won't got into effect on Feb. 1st. Heres why. (Ashleigh Joplin/The Washington Post)

They will push for mandatory background checks at gun shows, which are not currently required in Virginia.

[Wonkblog: Guns are now killing as many people as cars in the U.S.]

In the deal struck during the recent legislative session, gun rights supporters agreed to one concession in this area  to require state police at all gun shows to perform the checks but only if buyers and sellers agree.

Lawmakers also agreed to tighten restrictions on domestic abusers in exchange for a big prize for the gun rights community: nearly universal recognition in Virginia of concealed-carry handgun permits from around the country.

The voluntary nature of the background checks law makes it too weak for gun control groups such as Everytown for Gun Safety, the group backed by former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg that strongly rebuked McAuliffe for making the deal.

Another critic of the deal is Lori Haas, whose daughter was shot and injured in the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre.

Haas, Virginia state director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, and Kristine Hall of the Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance will participate in a public discussion with Giffords and Kelly.

Tim Heaphy, former U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia, and Conaway Haskins, who was state director for former U.S. senator Jim Webb (D-Va.), will sit on the Virginia Coalition for Common Sense.
A virus attacked the computer network of MedStar Health early on March 28, forcing the medical network to shut down its online database. The FBI is investigating the breach, which comes weeks after similar cyberattacks on other healthcare providers. (WUSA9)

A virus attacked the computer network of MedStar Health early on March 28, forcing the medical network to shut down its online database. The FBI is investigating the breach, which comes weeks after similar cyberattacks on other healthcare providers. (WUSA9)

Update: MedStar Health turns away patients one day after cyberattack on its computers.

A virus infected the computer network of MedStar Health early Monday morning, forcing the Washington health-care behemoth to shut down its email and vast records database and raising additional concerns about the security of hospitals nationwide.

The FBI is investigating the breach, which comes just weeks after similar cyberattacks on at least three other medical institutions in California and Kentucky. Still, MedStar officials said they had found no evidence that information has been stolen.

MedStar acted quickly with a decision to take down all system interfaces to prevent the virus from spreading throughout the organization, spokeswoman Ann Nickels said in a statement. We are working with our IT and cyber-security partners to fully assess and address the situation. Currently, all of our clinical facilities remain open and functioning.

But the infection could have a considerable impact on the $5 billion health-care provider, which operates 10 hospitals and more than 250 outpatient facilities in the Washington region. It serves hundreds of thousands of patients and employs more than 30,000 people.

Without access to sophisticated online systems, hospital staff have had to revert to seldom-used paper charts and records.

Everything will be slowed down tremendously, said Stephen Frum, a labor representative for National Nurses United who has worked closely with MedStar for 15 years. Its huge.

Appointments and surgeries will be delayed, he said, explaining that it will take longer for lab results to come back, for patients to receive tests and for medications to be ordered.

Neither MedStar nor the FBI has said how long it expects the systems to remain offline.

Even the lowest-level staff cant communicate with anyone. You cant schedule patients, you cant access records, you cant do anything, said one employee who asked that her name not be used because she was not authorized to speak about the incident.

The woman said she spoke to two other employees who saw a pop-up on their computer screens stating that they had been infected by a virus and asking for ransom in some kind of Internet currency. She had not seen the pop-up herself.

Though the nature of the MedStar infection remains unclear, Nickels said Monday she had not been told that its a ransom situation.

Ransomware  a virus that holds systems hostage until victims pay for a key to regain access  has been deployed at least three times against hospitals this year.

In one case last month, a hospital in Los Angeles paid hackers $17,000 in bitcoins, an Internet currency, to free its system. Forbes identified that strain of ransomware as Locky  a reference to the virtual lock the virus places on data.

The quickest and most efficient way to restore our systems and administrative functions was to pay the ransom and obtain the decryption key, the hospitals president, Allen Stefanek, said in a Feb. 17 statement. In the best interest of restoring normal operations, we did this.

Two weeks ago, a Kentucky facility announced it was in an internal state of emergency after a similar hack, according to the site Krebs on Security, which reported that the hackers in that case asked for about $1,600 in bitcoins.

Medical facilities are vulnerable to these attacks in part because they dont properly train their employees on how to avoid being hacked, according to Sinan Eren, who has worked in cybersecurity for government and health-care organizations for two decades.

Its not like the financial-services industry, where they train employees how to spot suspicious emails, said Eren, general manager at Avast Mobile Enterprise.

Also, many hospital computer systems are outdated, bulky and in dire need of upgrades or newer software, he said. But such institutions often dont have  or dont want to spend  the money to make sweeping changes.

Theres a lack of budget, a lack of talent to handle these issues, Eren said. Sometimes the human capital might not be there. All these things are an incremental cost to their systems. Therefore, they kind of push the can down the road to deal with technical updates later.

Special Agent Chris Stangl, a section chief at the FBIs cyber division, said in a recent interview that ransomware attacks are becoming increasingly prevalent as more and more victims pay up. In a nine-month period in 2014, the FBI investigated 1,838 complaints of such attacks, which cost those targeted more than $23.7 million. In 2015, agents investigated 2,453 complaints, costing targets $24.1 million.

[These hackers can hold a town hostage. And they want ransom in bitcoin.]

Stangl said the hackers, most of them from Eastern Europe, have increasingly targeted businesses, which are often able to pay more than individuals to unlock data. The hackers scan the Internet for companies that post their contact information, then send them email phishing attacks. Unsuspecting employees, Stangl said, are asked to click on what seem to be innocuous links or attachments  perhaps something as simple as a .PDF purporting to be a customer complaint  and before they know it, their computers are infected.

In the beginning days of ransomware, the target was primarily individuals, and it was unsophisticated, just very small amounts that people would pay, Stangl said. Its kind of moved, as the actors have become more sophisticated, to small- to medium-sized businesses.

Stangl said the crime is financially motivated, and the hackers make demands that put their victims in a difficult spot. They target critical data  such as patient records  then ask for a ransom low enough that a business or individual will consider paying it.

matt zapotosky@washpost.com
Illinois

Chicago mayor chooses police chief

Mayor Rahm Emanuel has rejected three finalists recommended by the Chicago Police Board for the citys top police post and selected the forces current chief of patrol as the interim police superintendent, City Council officials said Sunday.

Emanuel (D) is trying to choose a successor to Superintendent Garry McCarthy, whose firing was part of a frantic effort to regain trust in the police force and his own leadership following the release in November of video showing a white officer fatally shooting an unarmed black teenager 16 times.

Alderman Anthony Beale said the mayors office called him Saturday to inform him that Emanuel had selected Chief of Patrol Eddie Johnson as interim superintendent. Johnson, who is African American, was not among the boards recommendations.

While I supported the nomination of Gene Williams, I believe Eddie Johnson is equally suited to lead the Chicago Police Department and I support Mayor Emanuels decision, Beale said. Eddie Johnson knows Chicago, he knows the police department and the challenges facing our neighborhoods. He is a true leader and will bring the fundamental changes CPD needs right now. I look forward to getting to work with Eddie right away.

Kelley Quinn, Emanuels spokeswoman, declined to comment on whether Johnson is the mayors choice but said he has made a decision and has informed the three nominees. She said Emanuel would announce his decision within days.

While each of the finalists had strong qualifications, the mayor did not feel that any of them were the complete package that Chicago needs at this time  and thus none were offered the position, Quinn said. The mayor called each of them individually late Saturday to let them know of his decision.

 Associated Press

Paper prescriptions go away in N.Y.: New York is putting an end to most paper prescriptions for medicine as the nations toughest electronic-prescribing law takes effect. As of Sunday, doctors, dentists and other health-care professionals must electronically send prescriptions directly to pharmacies, instead of giving paper slips to patients. There are exceptions for emergencies and unusual circumstances, and thousands of prescribers have gotten extensions. The law aims to fight painkiller abuse by thwarting prescription-slip forgery, while reducing errors by eliminating hard-to-read handwriting.

Kansas wildfire partially contained: Firefighters grappling with the biggest wildfire in Kansas history got a welcome Easter assist from pre-dawn snow that blanketed the hardest-hit area. The National Weather Service said that about half an inch of precipitation in the form of rain and snow fell early Sunday southwest of Wichita in Barber County. Shawna Hartman, a Kansas Forest Service spokeswoman, said that about one-third of that days-long blaze has been contained. The fire has scorched more than 620 square miles in Oklahoma and southern Kansas, including 427 square miles of Barber County. No people have been seriously injured.

Skull found near Hollywood sign: The Los Angeles County coroners office said a human skull found this month in Griffith Park near the Hollywood sign belonged to a woman older than 20. Two hikers stumbled on the skull March 19 about 400 feet from the Brush Canyon trail near the iconic sign. Coroners Capt. John Kadus said Sunday that a forensic anthropologist has determined that the womans death occurred between one and 10 years ago. City News Service reported that the skull is known only as Jane Doe 22. Other body parts have not been located. Covering 6 1/ 2 square miles in the eastern Santa Monica Mountain range, Griffith Park is considered the largest municipal park in the nation.

 From news services
The Humane Society of the United States says the illegal ivory trade is flourishing in Hawaii, where some ivory dealers and businesses are teaching customers how to smuggle ivory out of the country. (The Humane Society of the United States)

The Humane Society of the United States says the illegal ivory trade is flourishing in Hawaii, where some ivory dealers and businesses are teaching customers how to smuggle ivory out of the country. (The Humane Society of the United States)

Cheryl Konrad has spent the past 35 years educating visitors to her store in Lahaina, Hawaii, about the centuries-old history of scrimshaw.

Konrad fills the shelves at Lahaina Scrimshaw with the etchings of local artists on fossilized walrus and mammoth ivory. But if a bill to ban the sale of ivory becomes law this year, she worries that she will be forced to close her store.

I feel like Ive been a part of history. Its just so hard to fathom that it could be criminal eventually, Konrad said.

Similar legislation in previous years has failed largely because of resistance from local merchants who make a living selling legal ivory carvings and jewelry. But increased awareness of the poaching of elephants in Africa is leading lawmakers to reconsider.

I think we have a good shot at it, said state Sen. Mike Gabbard, a Democrat who represents Kapolei and who introduced the bill in the Senate.

Ornaments and jewelry carved out of tiger and whale teeth as well as elephant ivory sit at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office in Honolulu. (Marina Riker/AP)

The Humane Society of the United States says Hawaii is the third-largest ivory market in the nation, after California and New York, which have banned its sale altogether. With the world in the midst of a poaching crisis, they said, Hawaii could become the United States largest market if left unregulated.

Poaching of African elephants has reached the highest level recorded since international organizations began keeping track in 2002, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The agency estimates 100,000 elephants were killed across Africa for ivory between 2010 and 2012.

Both the Hawaii House and Senate have passed their own version of bills that would ban the sale of certain wildlife parts, including elephant ivory, rhinoceros horn and shark. The bills include some exemptions, including for the age of the ivory and cultural uses.

Lawmakers who are opposed to the ban said its too broad.

I just think this is a meat-ax approach when it didnt have to be, said state Sen. Rosalyn Baker, who added that the legislation could hurt people who have spent years collecting ivory.

It could also criminalize art forms that have long been a part of the states history, she said.

Even today, dozens of Hawaii residents earn a living selling ivory. Ray Peters, who has lived on Maui since the 1970s, said hes built his life off scrimshaw and it would be difficult for him to find another job in his late 60s.

I will be forced to leave our islands which have been my home for 45 years, Peters said.

Konrad, who owns Lahaina Scrimshaw, acknowledges the exemptions for antique bone, but she says getting documentation to prove ivory is over a century old is difficult. Most ivories werent regulated until the 1970s, so ivory imported into the United States before then often doesnt have documentation, she said.

I just hope to God that we are able to continue on for a few more short years, Konrad said.

Keith Swindle, a special agent at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Hawaii, said a ban on nearly all ivory is necessary because its tricky to tell its age, especially in the form of small carvings or jewelry. Some will stain poached ivory to disguise it as an antique or fossil.

If I gave you two pieces of ivory, you could not tell them apart if one is legal or illegal, Swindle said. So if you have a legal ivory market, it makes it very easy to have a market to illegally launder ivory.
YEMEN

U.S. airstrikes kill 14 al-Qaeda suspects

Air raids killed 14 men suspected of belonging to al-Qaeda in southern Yemen on Sunday, medics and residents said, in one of the largest U.S.-led assaults on the group since a civil war broke out a year ago.

The airstrikes occurred as fresh signs emerged that tensions between the Iran-allied Houthi rebels, who control most of northern Yemen, and Saudi-led forces backing Yemens embattled president were easing after a year of fighting that has killed more than 6,200 people.

Residents in southern Yemen said Sunday that an aircraft bombed buildings used by al-Qaeda in Abyan province and destroyed a government intelligence headquarters in the provincial capital that the militants had captured and were using as a base. Medics said six people were killed.

Earlier Sunday, a suspected U.S. drone attack killed eight militants gathered in courtyards in two villages in Abyan, residents said.

Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula has taken advantage of the civil war to seize territory and operate more openly.

The United States has kept up a drone campaign against the group, although it evacuated the last of its military and intelligence personnel from Yemen in March last year. Its attacks have killed some of AQAPs top leaders, including its chief, Nasir al-Wuhayshi, who was struck by a drone in June.

The United Nations, trying to build on a lull in fighting along the Saudi-Yemeni border, said last week that the warring parties had agreed to a cessation of hostilities starting at midnight on April 10, followed by peace talks from April 18 as part of a fresh push to end the crisis.

 Reuters

IRAQ

Sadr begins sit-in inside Green Zone

Powerful Iraqi Shiite Muslim leader Moqtada al-Sadr entered Baghdads Green Zone, the heavily fortified center of the capital housing government buildings and embassies, on Sunday to keep up pressure on the government to enact reforms.

Thousands of Sadrs supporters began a sit-in at the districts gates more than a week ago and continued to camp out Sunday despite heavy rains. But Sadr took the protest forward by entering the zone itself.

Beloved protesters, I will enter the Green Zone by myself and [my escorts] only. I sit in inside the Green Zone and you sit in at its gates. None of you move, he told them before walking past a security checkpoint into the Green Zone.

Sadr is urging Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi to move ahead with a plan announced more than six weeks ago to replace current ministers with unaffiliated technocrats in a bid to tackle systemic political patronage, which has abetted graft.

Sadr, one of the countrys most savvy political operators, commands the loyalty of millions of Iraqis and has at times appeared very close to neighboring Shiite power Iran.

It is not clear how long Sadr, 42, who rose to prominence when his Mahdi Army battled U.S. troops after the 2003 invasion, plans to continue his personal demonstration.

Abadi, who has been slow to deliver reforms but pledged to reveal a cabinet reshuffle soon, has voiced concern that Shiite street protests could spin out of control and endanger Iraqs security when it needs to focus on fighting the Islamic State militant group.

 Reuters

ISRAEL

High court blocks natural gas deal

Israels Supreme Court on Sunday overturned the governments landmark deal to begin pumping natural gas, handing a painful blow to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a consortium of energy companies.

The court gave parliament a year to amend the plan or risk the cancelation of the framework. It cited a clause in the deal that would prevent Israel from making significant regulatory changes for the next 10 years as reason for scuttling it. The court argued that the clause restricted parliaments powers.

Netanyahu has made the energy deal a centerpiece of his agenda, saying the gas sales from Israels large reserves would bring energy self-sufficiency and billions of dollars in tax revenue. Critics have said that the deal gave excessively favorable terms to the governments corporate partners.

Resource-poor Israel announced the discovery of sizable offshore natural gas deposits about five years ago. A partnership of Israeli and U.S. companies has begun extracting some reserves.

 Associated Press

2 suspects held in Ivory Coast attack: Authorities in Mali said they arrested two men in connection with an attack by Islamist extremists in Ivory Coast that killed at least 19 people this month. One of the suspects was identified as the driver who brought the attackers to Ivory Coast; the second man was identified as his accomplice. Three men from Mali have already been detained in Ivory Coast. Al-Qaedas North Africa branch asserted responsibility for the attack.

Russia plane-crash data deemed satisfactory: Investigators have successfully downloaded all the information from the flight recorders on the FlyDubai plane that crashed in southern Russia on March 19, killing all 62 people aboard, and determined that it is in a satisfactory state, the United Arab Emirates aviation regulator said. The statement suggests authorities are making progress in the probe to determine what caused the crash. Russian authorities leading the investigation had said previously that the planes recorders were heavily damaged.

 From news services
WITH TWO weeks remaining in Marylands three-month legislative session, Democratic lawmakers in Annapolis have stopped just short of extending a Bronx cheer to Gov. Larry Hogans proposal for nonpartisan redistricting reform.

Never mind that the plan from Mr. Hogan, a Republican, is enormously popular with state residents. It foresees a constitutional amendment that would shift control of the redistricting process from self-interested elected lawmakers, who treat it exclusively as an incumbent-protection racket. In its place would be established an independent, nine-member panel that would draw district voting maps without regard to voting history or partisan leanings.

According to a recent Goucher College poll, that idea enjoys deep and wide support in Maryland. It is favored by large majorities of Democrats and Republicans; men and women; blacks and whites; young and old. Indeed, almost no other issue in the state elicits such one-sidedly favorable reaction. Practically the only Marylanders who overwhelmingly oppose Mr. Hogans blueprint are Democrats in the General Assembly.

Small wonder. Democrats enjoy a 2-to-1 advantage in voter registration in Maryland, but they have leveraged their control of the legislature into a heavily gerrymandered map that has yielded a congressional delegation of seven Democrats and one Republican. The states tortuous political cartography includes the shambolic 3rd Congressional District  likened in shape to a broken-winged pterodactyl by a federal judge  which slices from Baltimore to Montgomery County in the course of assembling its unassailable Democratic majority.

Of course, Maryland Democrats are no more culpable in rigging the electoral system than are Republicans in GOP-dominated states, including Virginia, who are equally adept at cherry-picking voters by means of computer-assisted map-drawing. And, like GOP officials elsewhere, Maryland Democrats are fond of justifying their refusal to consider redistricting reform with the argument that it amounts to unilateral political disarmament.

Some say they might entertain some version of reform, but only if it were in tandem with Virginia, whose Democratic governor and Republican-dominated legislature make it Marylands political mirror image. State Sen. Jamie Raskin, a Takoma Park Democrat, has offered a bill that would take a step in that direction  if Virginia played along by establishing its own independent, nonpartisan redistricting commission.

In the real world, the chances of Annapolis Democrats coordinating such a step with Richmond Republicans are infinitesimal. Maryland House Speaker Michael E. Busch (D-Anne Arundel) said hed float the idea with GOP counterparts in Virginia, but no ones holding their breath for a Kumbaya moment.

In fact, the idea of a two-state solution is a cop-out, a cheap excuse for lawmakers who have refused to take action that is clearly in their constituents best interests. In Virginia, gerrymandering has resulted in state legislative districts so grotesquely tilted that the vast majority of incumbents have no serious challengers. In Maryland, real democracy in state legislative races has been similarly degraded.

The continued inaction is an affront to democracy that distorts and subverts the popular will. Both Mr. Hogan and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, have called for reform. By ignoring those calls, legislators demonstrate their contempt for voters.
People wait in line to vote at the Environmental Education Center in Chandler, Ariz., on March 22. (David Kadlubowski/The Arizona Republic via Associated Press)

Its bad enough that an outrage was perpetrated last week against the voters of Maricopa County, Ariz. It would be far worse if we ignore the warning that the disenfranchisement of thousands of its citizens offers our nation. In November, one of the most contentious campaigns in our history could end in a catastrophe for our democracy.

A major culprit would be the U.S. Supreme Court, and specifically the conservative majority that gutted the Voting Rights Act in 2013.

The facts of what happened in Arizonas presidential primary are gradually penetrating the nations consciousness. In a move rationalized as an attempt to save money, officials of Maricopa County, the states most populous, cut the number of polling places by 70 percent, from 200 in the last presidential election to 60 this time around.

Maricopa includes Phoenix, the states largest city, which happens to have a non-white majority and is a Democratic island in an otherwise Republican county.

What did the cutbacks mean? As the Arizona Republic reported, the countys move left one polling place for every 21,000 voters  compared with one polling place for every 2,500 voters in the rest of the state.

Some Arizona voters waited in line for up to four hours to cast their ballots on March 22. Many took to social media to document their experiences in line, even after the winners were projected. (Jenny Starrs/The Washington Post)

The results, entirely predictable, were endless lines akin to those that await the release of new iPhones. Its an analogy worth thinking about, as there is no right to own an iPhone but there is a right to vote. Many people had to wait hours to cast a ballot, and some polling stations had to stay open long after the scheduled 7 p.m. closing time to accommodate those who had been waiting  and waiting. The Republic told the story of Aracely Calderon, a 56-year-old immigrant from Guatemala who waited five hours to cast her ballot. There were many voters like her.

[John Lewis: How we won, and are losing, the right to vote]

Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, whose government does not control election management, is furious about what was visited upon his citys residents. The day after the primary, he wrote U.S. Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch asking her to open a Justice Department investigation into the fiasco. It was not just that there werent enough polling places, Stanton charged. Their allocation also was far more favorable in predominantly Anglo communities. There were fewer voting locations in parts of the county with higher minority populations.

In a telephone interview, Stanton made the essential point. Long lines are bad for everyone. But they particularly hurt the least advantaged, who usually have less flexibility in their schedules than more affluent people do. It is often quite literally true that poor voters cant afford to wait.

If youre a single mother with two kids, youre not going to wait for hours, youre going to leave that line, Stanton said. As a result, Stanton said, tens of thousands of people were deprived of the right to vote.

A Democrat, Stanton asked himself the obvious question: Am I suggesting this was the intent of the people who run elections in Maricopa County? His answer: In voting rights terms, it doesnt matter. What matters, he said, is whether changes in practice had a disparate impact on minority communities, which they clearly did.

And theres the rub. Before the Supreme Court undermined Voting Rights Act enforcement, radical changes in voting practices such as Maricopas drastic cut in the number of polling places would have been required to be cleared with the Justice Department because Arizona was one of the states the law covered. This time, county officials could blunder  lets assume, for the sake of argument, that there was no discriminatory intent  without any supervision.

[How Republicans are gaming the voting system to tip the 2016 election in their favor]

Now lets look ahead to Election Day this fall. Michael Waldman, president of the Brennan Center for Justice, notes in his important new book, The Fight to Vote, that Republicans have moved with strategic ferocity to pass a variety of laws around the country to make it harder for people to cast ballots. The Brennan Center reports that 16 states will have new voting restrictions in place for the first time in a presidential election.

Imagine voting debacles like Arizonas happening all across the country. Consider what the news reports would be like on the night of Nov. 8, 2016. Are we not divided enough already? Can we risk holding an election whose outcome would be rendered illegitimate in the eyes of a very large number of Americans who might be robbed of their franchise?

This is not idle fantasy. Arizona has shown us what could happen. We have seven months to prevent what really could be an electoral cataclysm.

Read more from E.J. Dionnes archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
People place flowers and candles on Sunday in the Place de la Bourse to pay tribute to the victims of the attacks in Brussels. (Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images)

For years, Brussels has been the epicenter for European outrage over the CIAs terrorist interrogation program. Now it is Belgium that has some explaining to do for its failure to effectively interrogate a high-value terrorist  an interrogation that may have foiled last weeks deadly terrorist attacks. The carnage is a direct result of Europes refusal to accept that terrorists must be treated differently than common criminals.

When Salah Abdeslam, believed to be the logistics chief for an Islamic State terrorist cell, was captured, Belgian officials followed law enforcement procedures with precision. They provided Abdeslam a lawyer, told him he had the right to remain silent and put him into the Belgian criminal-justice system. Four days later, the terrorist cell carried out bombings in Brussels that killed 35 people  including at least four Americans  and injured hundreds more.

Astonishingly, officials did not question Abdeslam at all for his first 24 hours in custody. He spent Friday night in the hospital recovering from a leg wound sustained in the raid. When he was finally returned to the police on Saturday, he was questioned by authorities for a grand total of . . . two hours  and then was not questioned again until after the attacks. Why? He seemed very tired and he had been operated on the day before, a senior Belgian security official told Politico.

He seemed tired? Thats precisely when they should be interrogating him. The CIA used sleep deprivation as one of its most effective interrogation tools. But for Belgians, a terrorists exhaustion is a reason to stop questioning, not intensify it.

But here is the most incredible part: During those two hours of questioning, The Post reports, investigators did not ask . . . about his knowledge of future plots. Seriously? Abdeslam was the logistics chief for the Brussels-based terrorist cell that carried out both the Paris and Brussels bombings. According to the New York Times, He was the fixer, renting cars, finding apartments, picking people up and dropping them off. He could have identified the other members of his cell; the safe houses they used; how they communicated, moved money, picked travel routes; and  most important  the targets they had selected.

Belgium was left reeling after three attacks left at least 31 people dead and more than 200 injured March 22. The terror began unfolding during peak rush hour, and ended with at least one suspect still at large. (Deirdra O'Regan/The Washington Post)

But investigators did not bother to ask him about plans for new attacks. Instead, The Post reports, they concentrated solely on the Paris attacks . . . and then no other discussions were held until after Tuesdays attacks.

The mind simply boggles.

Investigators had found unused detonators and weapons in a safe house with his fingerprints. Did it occur to them to ask what he had intended to use them for? Apparently not.

Abdeslams questioning is a textbook example of why the law enforcement model for interrogating terrorists is a disaster. As we saw in Brussels, law enforcement officials are in no hurry to extract answers from a detainee, because they are questioning terrorists after an attack has occurred. Their goal is to extract a confession in order to secure a conviction. In such circumstances, patience is a virtue.

But in an intelligence-driven interrogation, patience is deadly. Interrogators are trying to get information from the terrorist quickly, before an attack occurs. In such circumstances, you need to take a terrorist from a state of defiance to a state of cooperation quickly. Speed is of the essence.

It is simply unconscionable that Abdeslam was allowed to protect the identities of cell members and their plans for the Brussels attacks. But that is only the beginning of the shameful incompetence on display here. Not only did officials not ask Abdeslam about future attacks, but also they compounded that error by holding multiple news conferences in which they bragged about his arrest and boasted how well he was cooperating. This was a fatal mistake.

Belgian officials should never have publicly acknowledged Abdeslams capture. When terrorists learn that one of their comrades is being interrogated, they rapidly begin purging email accounts, shutting down phone numbers, dispersing operatives and closing other vital trails of intelligence  and in this case, likely accelerating attack plans. But if a terrorists capture is kept secret, these intelligence trails may remain warm for some time  allowing officials to exploit them as they extract information from the detainee.

This case demonstrates the need for some form of secret detention and an intelligence-driven approach to interrogating captured high-value terrorists. It does not mean, as Donald Trump has suggested, that Abdeslam should have undergone waterboarding and a lot more. In the CIAs experience, two-thirds of detainees cooperated without any enhanced interrogation techniques at all. Just the experience of disappearing into secret detention  with no idea where they were and no lawyer present  was enough to get them talking.

Officials in Europe and the United States need to wake up and change their approaches. The Islamic State released a video over the weekend featuring two terrorists, allegedly Belgian nationals, celebrating the Brussels attacks from inside Iraq. One of them looks into the camera and declares, This is just the beginning of your nightmare.

If we keep treating terrorists like common criminals, that nightmare will soon become reality.

Read more from Marc Thiessens archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook.
Howard Gutman was U.S. ambassador to Belgium from 2009 to 2013 and is managing director of the Gutman Group, an international consulting and investment group.

Elections are about enthusiasm.

Pundits will tell you, for example, that Virginia is a purple state. They are wrong. Virginia is sometimes a red state and sometimes a blue state but never a purple state.

An unenthusiastic Virginia  when only 2.2 million people vote  is red. Any Democrat will have an extremely difficult time breaking 50 percent statewide when turnout is 2.2 million voters. Thus in the 2013 governors race, Terry McAuliffe actually lost the overall vote by about 5 percentage points, when 2.2 million voted, but the non-Democratic vote was split between a Republican and a tea partyer (who got 6.5 percent of the vote) running on the Libertarian line, giving McAuliffe his 2.5-percentage-point win. And in 2014, another unenthusiastic year, more or less the same 2.2 million voted, making Virginia again a red state. Democratic Sen. Mark Warner  the most popular politician statewide  lost the overall vote by more than a percentage point. But the tea partyer again ran and got 2.4 percent of the vote, giving Warner his slim win over Republican Ed Gillespie.

But an enthusiastic Virginia  with turnout of more than 3.6 million, which is more than 50 percent larger than the unenthusiastic showing  is a blue state. No Republican can win a majority of those 3.6 million-plus Virginians. Thus Virginia was a blue state in the two Obama presidential elections, in 2008 and 2012. And, thus, in 2008, Warner, running with Obama, won by 31 percentage points (almost the same margin of victory he would have had in 2014 if he could have added in his 80 percent share of the more than 1.4 million Virginians who didnt turn out). And in 2012, Tim Kaine, also running with Obama, won by six percentage points.

The same is true of many supposedly swing or purple states. They swing with turnout. They swing with enthusiasm.

Which is bad news for Hillary Clinton. Some people like her and many more tolerate her, but virtually no one is enthusiastic about her. Clinton still talks about glass ceilings rather than gig economies, and everyone has heard her by now, on many occasions. It was largely the expectation of Clintons same pitch, different day that led cable networks to cover Donald Trumps long post-Michigan infomercial rather than Clintons victorious-sounding concession speech.

This lack of enthusiasm for Clinton  known as the enthusiasm gap  presents a serious threat to her candidacy, as the election necessarily will largely be about turnout and demographics. With no boots-on-the-ground war and unemployment at 4.9 percent, these factors will hold far more sway over the outcome than candidates stances on any of the existing nonissues.

It requires enthusiasm to turn demographics into votes. Giving millions of potential voters little reason to go to the polls is a foolproof formula for increasing the number of red states. The 2016 Democratic nominee surely will need the same type of enthusiasm that Obama used to spur those additional 1.4 million voters to the polls in Virginia and turn the state blue. But this is exactly what Clinton lacks.

Could Trump bridge the enthusiasm gap for Clinton? Could he drive people to the polls merely to vote against him? Will those extra 1.4 million Virginians, who may yawn at the thought of Clinton  Hispanics, blacks and other minorities; the unemployed; the working poor; and all the rest of the Trump-offended  work up enough enthusiasm against Trump to turn the state blue? And, if so, could that pattern repeat in enough other swing states, so that in the end Clinton might not actually win the election as much as Trump might lose it?

Of course, we have not gotten to this question quite yet. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) remains in the Democratic race, and what he arguably lacks in common-sense policies, he makes up for in his ability to generate enthusiasm. Republican Sen. Ted Cruz (Tex.) still has a shot to topple Trump. But while he, too, has a likeability problem, no one could generate the type of broad-based negative enthusiasm that Trump seems to engender. And if the Republicans somehow find their way to Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, Ohio Gov. John Kasich, House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (Wis.) or Mitt Romney, Clinton will have to face down her enthusiasm gap all on her own.

But if we get there, if Clinton faces off against Trump, we probably will know everything we need to know once the Virginia voter turnout numbers begin to roll in.
In his March 24 letter, The lefts hate speech,  Thomas J. Ryan said the country has gone downhill in the past seven years. With economic indicators up and continuing to go that way, more U.S. citizens having access to health care and fewer service members dying overseas, I cant believe that he and so many others cant or wont see the true picture.

Mr. Ryan also disparaged an immigration policy that admits refugees, including those who are Muslim . My ancestors, and probably his, were refugees from a famine-wasted country who were welcomed by the lady in New York harbor despite animosity of those who blindly hated us because of our religion. Do we now turn our backs?

Therese Martin, Reston
The March 25 news article Malian national pleads guilty in 2000 slaying of U.S. diplomat in West Africa caused me great anguish. It came one day after my visit to Capitol Hill in another attempt to prod our government to bring to justice the murderers of five American nuns in Liberia 24 years ago.

Those implicated in the murders were identified. The FBI prepared what was described to me as an iron-clad case. However, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia refused to prosecute it, citing the statute of limitations. In the case of these five, our government has failed to meet its solemn pledge to bring to justice all who harm Americans regardless of where it happens or how long it takes.

Perhaps the case could be opened and moved to New York, where federal prosecutors and FBI agents cooperated to prepare and successfully bring the guilty Malian to trial.

Gerald Rose, Falls Church

The writer was deputy chief of mission of the U.S. embassy in Monrovia, Liberia from 1991 to 1993.
Regarding the March 20 Economy & Business article First rule of running others money? Do no harm.:

Life insurers have concerns about the Labor Departments proposed fiduciary rule because it would result in higher costs and reduced access to retirement advice, particularly for low- and middle-income consumers. A recent study found that changes banning commission-based sales of retirement products resulted in a standard of advice that is primarily accessible and affordable only for the more affluent.

Further, as noted in the March 15 editorial Honest advice on your IRA, Labors cost-benefit analysis was completed with faux precision. When undertaking rule-making, federal agencies are required to fully and accurately demonstrate that the benefits of a proposed regulation outweigh its costs. The standard is much higher than faux precision.

That is why more than 300 members of Congress have expressed concerns with the proposed fiduciary regulation. Bipartisan bills in Congress offer a true common-sense alternative; they draw the line in the right place. They would enact a best-interest standard while ensuring retirement savers are not deprived of access to the financial advice they want and need.

Dirk Kempthorne, Washington

The writer is president and chief executive of the American Council of Life Insurers.
A 4th grade class for gifted students in Alexandria, Va., in 2011. The program was trying to diversify its student population. (Bill O'Leary/WASHINGTON POST)

Regarding the March 22 Metro article Racial disparities found in Montgomerys gifted programs:

To provide equitable access to gifted and talented programs, administrators must identify all the factors preventing participation by minority and low-income students. Is racism preventing identification of candidates? What are the barriers to participation?

In my community, the gifted program is at Cold Spring Elementary School. A young person whom I mentor was invited to the program. He came to the United States from Africa when he was 3, speaks fluent English and French, and won four awards at the end of last school year. Unfortunately, he cannot participate in the gifted program. Why? His single mother works full-time, attends school part-time and does not own a car. School officials told her that she had to arrange her sons transportation. A middle-class person raised in the suburbs would know to contact other parents in the community to arrange transportation. People new to the United States do not understand this cultural tradition and will forfeit an opportunity as impossible to achieve.

Why is the gifted program at a school that has few low-income and minority students? Why is it not housed at Bells Mill Elementary School, which has more low-income, bilingual and minority students? Locating programs in schools with a high proportion of low-income and minority students would remove many barriers to participation.

Rosina Perthel, Potomac
A man helps readjust tributes left for the victims of the recent bomb attacks in Brussels, on Monday in Brussels. (Alastair Grant/Associated Press)

In an otherwise thoughtful PostPartisan blog excerpt, Ted Cruzs harebrained policy toward Muslims [op-ed, March 25], Joe Scarborough gave us this whopper: Today, Europe finds itself locked in a perpetual war against Islamist terrorists because Belgium, France and other European Union countries cannot integrate Muslim immigrants into their cultures.

Really? Are the victims of terrorism really the ones to blame? Perhaps we have the greatest threat ever faced by modern Europe because the terrorists are violent and have not yet been controlled by law enforcement. And perhaps the terrorists themselves are to blame  not the host culture.

Clifford Hinkes, Derwood
Correction: An earlier version of this editorial mistakenly referred to the Arthur R. Bowman dam. The text has been updated to reflect the correct name, the Bowman Avenue dam.

ABOUT 30 miles north of New York City, in Rye, N.Y., sits the Bowman Avenue Dam, a reinforced-concrete gravity dam constructed a century ago for ice-making, and now primarily used for flood control, with a sluice gate that can control water permitted to flow downstream. Between Aug. 28 and Sept. 18, 2013, a hacker sneaked into computer systems that monitor the dam and move the sluice gate.

According to a grand jury indictment unsealed Thursday in federal court in New York City, the hacker was Hamid Firoozi, 34, the network manager for a computer security firm, ITSec Team, based in Iran. Mr. Firoozi collected information about the dams water levels and temperature, and the status of the sluice gate. He might have been able to open the gate, but, fortunately, it was manually disconnected for maintenance.

He was charged with one count of computer hacking. The intrusion shows once again that cyberattacks are proving feasible against critical civilian infrastructure such as electrical grids, power plants and dams. The Bowman Dam is not the Hoover Dam, but its vulnerability ought to concern everyone.

Mr. Firoozi was part of a larger group of seven people employed by ITSec and another company, Mersad , that were also behind a massive onslaught against websites run by U.S. banks that reached a peak in September 2012, the indictment says. In effect, the group overwhelmed the websites with so many hits that hundreds of thousands of regular customers could not access their bank accounts. The attackers didnt steal data or money, but using robot-like botnets, threw so much traffic at the websites  up to 140 gigabits per second  that the sites failed.

It is unlikely that Mr. Firoozi or the others, still in Iran, are going to face trial in a U.S. courtroom for these assaults. Nor will grand jury indictments deter future cyberattacks from abroad. But leveling charges and naming those responsible shows that the hackers cannot always escape with anonymity; doing so may crimp international travel by those charged, and the hidden hand of Iran is exposed. According to the Justice Department, the two companies involved worked for the government, including Irans Revolutionary Guard, and one of the hackers, for his effort, got credit toward completion of mandatory military service.

How do these Iranian assaults differ from Stuxnet? That was the computer worm deployed by the United States and Israel to wreck centrifuges in Iran making enriched uranium that could be used in a nuclear bomb. The attack methods were similar; Stuxnet also targeted industrial control mechanisms. But Stuxnet was aimed only at Irans illicit weapons-making ability, not at harming civilians. The distinction is important  just like the difference between military and civilian targets matters in other forms of war.

So far, the worlds major powers have managed to coalesce only around some informal and voluntary norms of behavior for cyberconflict. Perhaps it is time to set them down more concretely and firmly rule out floods and blackouts as tools of cyberattack.
The March 25 editorial on Radovan Karadzics conviction at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), Justice, a quarter-century later, correctly noted the delayed but welcome justice the conviction represents. However, it seemed a bit too hopeful on the effect of the conviction in the former Yugoslavia.

After the verdict, fellow ICTY indictee Vojislav Seselj led thousands in a Belgrade, Serbia, rally opposing it. Members of government throughout the region regularly throw welcome home parties for convicted war criminals and go to bat for high-ranking officials accused of war crimes before the domestic courts. In Serbia, every report from the European Union, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and other nongovernmental organizations has lamented excessive political interference in domestic war-crimes proceedings, which have been few in number and low in quality.

The ICTY was created to convict the highest-ranking perpetrators. It also was meant to spur domestic processes to bring justice to many more victims, including a Long Island family, whom I represent, that had three sons kidnapped, executed and dumped into a mass grave by Serbian special forces near the end of the Kosovo war. Equally important, the ICTY was meant to determine the truth. Until such crimes are credibly reconciled and accepted by domestic authorities, we should be careful in celebrating the state of democracy in the former Yugoslavia.

Praveen Madhiraju, Washington
The Supreme Court on Monday said it would not review the conviction of former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich on corruption charges.

The justices without comment let stand an appeals court ruling that said Blagojevich (D) illegally sought money in exchange for filling the Senate seat left vacant when President Obama was elected.

Blagojevich is serving a 14-year sentence for that and other actions he took as governor. An appeals court threw out five of his 18 convictions, and the former governor wanted the justices to find that the others did not cross the line from political favors to criminal conduct.

The court next month will hear an appeal from former Virginia governor Robert McDonnell (R), who was convicted of corruption for his efforts on behalf of a businessman who bestowed money and gifts on the governor and his family.

The court on April 27 will hear oral arguments in the long-running saga of McDonnell, who was convicted along with his wife, Maureen.
Japans chief cabinet secretary, Yoshihide Suga, said Monday that Japan will stand by its no-nuclear-weapons stance. (Shizuo Kambayashi/AP)

Donald Trumps suggestion that South Korea and Japan should have their own nuclear arsenals so they can protect themselves  and so the United States doesnt have to  has been met with bewilderment in the region.

Government officials on all three sides stressed that there would be no change in the alliance, while newspapers shook their editorial heads.

We are dumbfounded at such myopic views of a leading candidate in the U.S. presidential race, who tries to approach such critical issues only from the perspective of expenses, the JoongAng Ilbo, one of South Koreas biggest newspapers, said in a punchy editorial. Trump must refrain from his penny-wise and pound-foolish approach.

The left-leaning Hankyoreh urged President Park Geun-hyes administration to protest. The South Korean government needs to express its firm opposition to Trumps foreign policy plan, which constitutes a threat to security on the Korean Peninsula, the paper said, warning that Trumps comments could complicate efforts to persuade North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program.

[A transcript of Trumps meeting with The Washington Post editorial board]

The Republican presidential front-runner argues that the United States defense alliances with Japan and South Korea cost too much money.

The U.S. military has about 54,000 troops stationed in Japan and 28,500 in South Korea, and the alliances form the cornerstones of its military presence in Asia. The presence is meant to keep North Korea, as well as China, in check.

But Trump has been complaining that these two rich countries should be paying for their own defense.

Now, does that mean nuclear? It could mean nuclear. Its a very scary nuclear world, Trump told the New York Times.

With the irascible North Korean regime threatening more nuclear and missile tests, some politicians and opinion leaders in Seoul have been talking about the need for South Korea to develop its own nuclear weapons, but this idea does not have mainstream support.

[As North Korea flexes its muscles, some in South want nukes, too]

The spokesman for South Koreas defense ministry, Moon Sang-gyun, said Monday that he had no comment on Trumps remarks on nuclear weapons. He did, however, tell reporters that the alliance with the United States remains strong.

In Tokyo, Yoshihide Suga, the chief cabinet secretary, said there would be no change in Japans policy of not having nuclear weapons.

Whoever becomes president of the United States, the Japan-U.S. alliance, based on a bilateral security agreement, will remain the core of Japans diplomacy, Suga told reporters. We will adhere to our three principles that prohibit Japan from owning, developing and transporting a nuclear arsenal.

Mexicans celebrate holiday by burning Trump in effigy
Women try to comfort a mother who lost her son in a suicide bombing in Lahore, Pakistan. The death toll from the massive attack targeting Christians gathered on Easter rose Monday as the country started a three-day mourning period.

March 28, 2016 Women try to comfort a mother who lost her son in a suicide bombing in Lahore, Pakistan. The death toll from the massive attack targeting Christians gathered on Easter rose Monday as the country started a three-day mourning period. K.M. Chaudary/AP

More than 70 have been reported killed in Lahore in a suicide bombing.

More than 70 have been reported killed in Lahore, Pakistan, after an alleged suicide-bomb attack.

More than 70 have been reported killed in Lahore, Pakistan, after an alleged suicide-bomb attack.

What the site of an explosion in Pakistan during Easter picnics looks like

What the site of an explosion in Pakistan during Easter picnics looks like

As Pakistan began burying its dead Monday, authorities counted 29 children among those killed by an Easter suicide bombing in an amusement park, victims of a terrorist attack that has reinforced growing feelings of dread here.

Although 2015 was relatively quiet, horrified Pakistanis are again asking what their government can do to protect them from extremist violence.

More than 70 people in all were killed in the devastating attack Sunday in Lahore. Officials vowed to hunt down the Islamist militant bombers who claimed they targeted Christians  yet killed many of their Muslim brethren in the bargain.

Even after a week of terrorist violence in Iraq, Turkey and Belgium, the attack here nonetheless became a focus of global dismay.

It was the countrys worst terrorist attack this year and the deadliest attack in Pakistan since nearly 150 were killed at a school in Peshawar in late 2014  a shock to the nation that led to an unexpectedly peaceful 2015. That calm period now seems to be over.





Security forces arrested a number of terrorist suspects and facilitators in at least five separate raids in cities across Punjab province, where Lahore is located, according to Lt. Gen. Asim Bajwa, an army spokesman. Bajwa also said that a huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered in the operations, but he did not say where the weapons stockpile was found.

[An Easter suicide bombing shows plight of Pakistans Christians]

Police in Lahore said Monday that they were investigating whether the suicide bomber  who detonated an explosives-packed vest in the crowded park Sunday evening  had accomplices. The blast ripped through crowds of families celebrating Easter and a school break, transforming a joyful scene into a spectacle of chaos and horror. The city was in a period of official mourning Monday, with schools and markets closed and little traffic.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis on Monday decried the Easter bombing as vile and abominable and called for Pakistans religious minorities to be protected. He urged authorities in Pakistan to make every effort to restore security and serenity to Pakistanis, according to the Vaticans website.

Pakistani authorities noted that more Muslims than Christians were killed and injured. Of those who died at the scene, 14 were Christian, 44 were Muslim, and nine could not immediately be identified, according to Muhammad Iqbal, the superintendent of police for operations in Lahore.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrived in Lahore, which is one of his political strongholds, to visit the wounded in one of the citys many hospitals, his office said. He also announced that he was canceling a trip to Washington, where he had planned to attend this weeks nuclear summit.

A splinter faction of the Pakistani Taliban, Jamaat ul-Ahrar, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying, It was our people who attacked the Christians in Lahore, celebrating Easter.

It's not the first time that the Pakistani Taliban or its splinter group, Jamaat ul-Ahrar, targeted Pakistan's most vulnerable. (Jason Aldag/The Washington Post)

Pakistan, a country of 190 million, has suffered for years from sectarian violence and Islamist militancy, including a Taliban-led insurgency in the tribal areas on the border with Afghanistan. Recent terrorist attacks targeting minorities and schools have left many ordinary Pakistanis scared and on edge.

This shouldnt be happening, said Rani Farzand, a teacher and neighbor of an 8-year-old girl who died in the blast. The kids are not safe in the parks, in the schools, in the mosques. Where should we send our children? What should we do?

On Monday, little remained of the carnage at Gulshan-e-Iqbal park, a leafy oasis in Pakistans second-largest city.

Police had cordoned off the bloodstained area between a fountain and a bumper-car ride in the childrens amusement section where the bomb exploded. Objects were left like small grace notes  a jeweled sandal, mangled reading glasses, a childs shoe.

At Jinnah Hospital in Lahore, where about half of the more than 300 injured were taken Sunday night, 67 remained hospitalized with a variety of injuries, including burns and shrapnel wounds, doctors said. Politicians and TV anchors weaved among the beds, where occupants were labeled blast victim.

Among them were two small children, their beds marked with signs saying unknown. Their family died in the blast, and they had yet to be linked with other relatives.

Some were clearly still in shock. Zeeshan Taaj, 23, had been walking through the park on his way back from a pickup cricket match when the bomb detonated. He injured his leg in the aftermath and is trying to come to terms with what he saw: Fire and smoke, he said. I have seen chopped legs blown off, heads and dead bodies scattered all around me.

A friend tried to comfort him by tucking a sheet around his still-bloodied leg wound.

[A bulletproof cross rises in Karachi]

In another bed, Tasleem Sultan, 40, described how she and four other adult family members took eight children to the kiddie amusement park Sunday night and found it bustling on the warm evening. Her niece, Zainab, 8, had donned her best red dress and put flower-shaped barrettes in her hair for the occasion. She rode an elephant on the merry-go-round. She was holding her aunts hand when the force of the explosion separated them.

Later, her father found Zainab, bleeding and lifeless.

I was weeping. I am still in shock, Jamshaid Iqbal, 35, said in an interview at his family home after her funeral. Why isnt the government protecting us?

[Pakistans Christians fear growing isolation and threats]

In Islamabad on Monday, thousands of Muslim demonstrators protesting the execution of Islamist assassin Mumtaz Qadri staged a sit-in inside the capital citys Red Zone, which is home to a number of vital government institutions, including Parliament and the prime ministers house. Qadri assassinated Punjabs governor, Salman Taseer, in 2011 over the latters opposition to Pakistans blasphemy laws.

Most blasphemy cases are lodged against non-Muslims for violations such as desecrating the Koran, Islams holy book, according to rights monitors. The army was deployed Sunday night to protect government buildings after the protesters rampaged across the city, damaging property and setting buildings on fire.

Erin Cunningham in Kabul, Babar Dogar in Lahore, and Haq Nawaz Khan and Aamir Iqbal in Peshawar, Pakistan, contributed to this report.

Read more:

In deadly attack on Pakistani college, extremists take new aim at students

Pakistans prime minister is defying the clerics  very carefully

By way of computers and headsets, Islamic teaching flows out of Pakistan

Pakistan is still trying to get a grip on its madrassa problem
A video purportedly made by El Salvadors main street gangs is offering an end to killings in the country and asks the government not to continue an anti-gang offensive.

El Salvador has suffered growing gang violence since a 2012 truce among criminal organizations fell apart.

In the video, which was broadcast by local media on Saturday, a masked man claimed to make the offer on behalf of the Mara Salvatrucha gang and two factions of the Barrio 18 gang.

The video said killings were ordered stopped as of Saturday  to show the government that it did not have to implement get-tough policies. The government has been considering a kind of limited state of emergency in some areas and is planning to release some non-gang inmates to free up prison space and liberate police to fight the gangs.

We have ordered all of our people . . . to halt all types of homicides nationwide, said the man who appears in the video, to demonstrate to the public, the government and international agencies in our country that there is no need to implement measures that only violate our constitution.

There was no immediate confirmation of the authenticity of the video, but former guerrilla Raul Mijango said, I had received information that [the gangs] were going to release some kind of message, that they had that idea. Mijango has served as a truce negotiator in the past.

The gangs might be trying to pressure the government into negotiating a truce similar to the one in 2012, during which homicide rates fell notably. That truce has since fallen apart.

According to official statistics, at least 6,657 people were killed last year in El Salvador. The country had an overall annual homicide rate of about 103 per 100,000 inhabitants, El Salvadors highest on record.

Officials said they would not negotiate with the gangs.

Eugenio Chicas, a spokesman for President Salvador Sanchez Ceren, wrote in his Twitter account that this administration will not grant any truce in the fight against criminals and will apply the necessary measures to protect the population.

The video included veiled warnings, claiming that the gangs have the tools to destroy the politics of this country and saying that they want to make the government aware that it cannot eliminate the gangs, because we are part of the community in this country.
Israeli soldiers stand near the body of a Palestinian who had been subdued and who was shot as he lay on the ground in Hebron, West Bank. (AP)

A video appearing to show an Israeli soldier fatally shooting an alleged Palestinian assailant as he lay injured on the ground has opened a fierce debate among Israelis over whether the soldiers actions constitute murder or heroism.

It is a question that has divided some of Israels political and military leaders and has sparked a wider discussion about what it means to serve on the front line of a low-intensity conflict with a surge of violence in recent months.

Since Oct. 1, 29 Israelis and five foreign citizens have been killed in stabbing, shooting and vehicular attacks by Palestinians, while more than 180 Palestinians have been killed, either carrying out attacks against Israelis or during clashes with the Israeli military.

[Watch: Israeli soldier on video shooting wounded Palestinian attacker]

Some political leaders and tens of thousands of citizens have voiced support for the soldier, even as military prosecutors investigate him on suspicion of murder.

A graphic video shows a wounded Palestinian assailant who is lying on the ground being casually shot in the head and killed Thursday by an Israeli soldier. The Washington Post edited the video for time and graphic content. (Emad abu-Shamsiyah, B'Tselem)

Solidarity rallies are being planned in at least two cities. Social-media campaigns, some using the soldiers name and photo, proclaim his innocence, and an online petition demanding that he receive a citation for his actions had garnered more than 50,000 names by Monday.

Thursdays shooting in Hebron, which was caught on video by a field worker from the Israeli human rights group BTselem, shows the injured Palestinian, Abdul Fattah al-Sharif, on the ground minutes after he attacked and wounded an Israeli soldier. As Israeli medical teams evacuate the soldier, military personnel wander around the wounded Palestinian. A few minutes later, a shot is heard, and blood is seen streaming from Sharifs head.

Another video taken at the scene and published online shows paramedics screaming at soldiers not to touch the wounded Palestinian, because, at that point, he was still alive, might have been booby-trapped or still posed a threat.

Still another clip purports to show the suspected soldier shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries with an extreme right-wing Hebron activist, U.S.-born Baruch Marzel, just after the shooting.

[A new kind of terrorism in Israel]

Using the incident as an example of illegal Israeli actions, the Palestinian Authority announced Monday that it asked the United Nations to launch an official investigation into extrajudicial killings of Palestinians by Israelis. To Palestinians, including Sharifs relatives who were interviewed by local media, the case is clearly murder.

Israel Defense Forces leaders condemned the shooting, saying the action of one soldier should not be held against an entire army.

This is not the IDF, these are not the values of the IDF, and these are not the values of the Jewish people, an Israeli army spokesman, Moti Almoz, said at a news conference Thursday.

Israels defense minister, Moshe Yaalon, said the shooting was an utter breach of the armys values and its code of ethics in combat.

The accused soldiers family plans to protest outside his military hearing Tuesday, and his mother sent a letter to Yaalon accusing the military of abandoning her son.

The debate has reached the Israeli cabinet, where an argument broke out Sunday between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing coalition partner, Education Minister Naftali Bennett.

Bennett demanded that the government intervene on behalf of the soldier and slammed the military for releasing information about the soldier to the media. He also accused the prime minister of not giving enough support to Israeli soldiers.

According to the Haaretz newspaper, Netanyahu responded: I have always given support to soldiers and have led more soldiers into battle than you. So dont preach to me on this matter.

Read more:

Israel to launch one of the most advanced missile defense systems in the world, with U.S. help

Israeli troops relying on Waze app blunder into Palestinian area; clashes follow

Martyrs? Desperate? Crazy? Palestinians struggle to define Palestinians who attack Israelis

Todays coverage from Post correspondents around the world
As revelations mount of police foreknowledge of the March 22 Brussels bombings, the central question that is emerging is why the security forces of Belgium and its NATO allies did not move to stop the attacks. That the Belgian state had detailed prior knowledge of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) network that carried out the bombings is emerging in numerous press reports.

On Sunday, the Sunday Times carried an interview with Alexandrino Rodrigues, the landlord of the flat in the Schaerbeek neighbourhood where the March 22 attackers raised suspicions by releasing chemical odours as they built the bombs they later took to Zaventem Airport. Police had previously gone to the apartment and knocked on the door, apparently without entering. There were investigations before and after the events of March 22, Rodrigues said, adding, You cant catch a rabbit without knowing where it lives.

Police rapidly moved on the Schaerbeek apartment after the airport bombings, sealing it off only 90 minutes after the attack. Police said they had been alerted by a tip from the taxi driver who drove the bombers to the airport. However, the taxi driver subsequently contradicted this account, saying he had alerted police only after a photo of the attackers was released several hours later, leaving unexplained how police reacted so quickly.

This story, the New York Times wrote, is raising questions about whether the police had perhaps already had the building in their sights but, for some reason, had not moved in and smashed through the front door of the sixth-floor apartment until it was too late.

This news came after Fridays reports that police knew the location of the hideout of Salah Abdeslam, the ISIS fugitive wanted in the November 13 terror attacks in Paris, throughout the four months in which he was described as Europes most wanted man, until his capture on March 18. Police did not try to apprehend him for the entire period. Once he was captured, moreover, he received only a perfunctory two-hour interrogation. Though he knew several of the March 22 attackers, including Najim Laachraoui, he was reportedly not asked whether any other attacks were being prepared.

The New York Times characterization of these events as a trail of dots not connected, echoing the official position of the Belgian government, does not hold water. In reality, this attack, like the two ISIS attacks in Paris last year, are the product of the reckless and reactionary decision of Washington and its major European allies to mobilize Islamist militias to wage a proxy war for regime change in Syria.

For years, a small army of European Islamist fighters has been traveling back and forth between Europe and Syria to carry out raids and terror bombings aimed at destabilizing and toppling President Bashar al-Assads government. A Europe1 report last December, citing the New York-based private intelligence firm Soufan Group, estimated the number of foreign Islamist fighters in Syria at between 27,000 and 31,000. These included 5,000 Europeans, with 1,700 from France alone.

Other major contributors were the Maghreb, with 8,000 fighters (including 6,000 from Tunisia), the Middle East, with over 8,000 fighters (including 2,500 Saudis), and Russia and Central Asia, with 4,500 (including 2,400 Russians).

Such a vast and undisturbed flow of fighters could not proceed without the knowledge of the intelligence agencies, many of which have worked closely with these proxy forces in Syria to plan attacks on Assads troops and on Syrian civilians. This is why those leading the major ISIS attacks in Europethe Kouachi brothers who attacked Charlie Hebdo, November 13 attack leader Abdelhamid Abaaoud, and the El Bakraoui brothers in Brusselswere to a man well known to the security services. It is evident that protocols were in place for their movements to proceed unhindered, so they could plan and execute attacks.

Europe knew exactly what was happening, but they started a blame game and said the entire problem was on the Turkish-Syrian border, a senior Turkish security official told the Guardian.

This official complained that European intelligence agencies did not help Ankara track European Islamists arriving in Turkey to go to Syria, and even helped Islamist fighters deported from Turkey return there, the Guardian reported, quoting him as saying, Without European intelligence backing, [Turkey] could only prosecute them for attempting to illegally cross into Syria and deport them back to Europe. Some of those deported were later given new passports and allowed to travel back to Turkey.

The handful of alleged ISIS accomplices, logistical aides and document forgers now being arrested in police raidsseven in Brussels, two in Paris, several more in Germany and Italyare a tiny part of the vast network built up during NATOs war in Syria. Viewed in this context, European officials carefully worded statements on the attacks make clear that their security forces are badly stretched by the Islamist operations they have unleashed.

We have had results to find the terrorists and, both in Brussels and in Paris, there have been a certain number of arrests that took place, French President Francois Hollande said Friday, but we know there are other networks. Even if the network that committed the Paris and Brussels attacks is on the way to being annihilated, a threat remains.

The threat is unprecedented, and intelligence and domestic law enforcement agencies appear to be overwhelmed by the numbers involved, said Aaron Stein of the Atlantic Council think tank.

The conflict is all the more bitter because, through the Brussels attacks, ISIS is intervening in a raging debate over the war within the foreign policy establishments of the NATO powers, fuelled by the stark reversals suffered by their proxy forces at the hands of Syrian government forces backed by Russian air power.

These conflicts emerged publicly on Saturday with reports that a Pentagon-backed ethnic Kurdish militia, the Syrian Democratic Forces, was engaging in gun battles with an Arab Islamist militia backed by the CIA and Turkey, the Fursan al-Haq (Army of Righteousness). This brought US military and Turkish officials to loggerheads, the Los Angeles Times wrote.

Turkey fears that Syrian Democratic Forces victories in Syria could lead to the formation of an independent Kurdish state on Turkeys southern border, stoking up separatist sentiment among Kurds across the border in Turkey itself.

As these conflicts erupt on the ground in Syria, correspondingly violent debates are proceeding behind the scenes in the offices and agencies of the major NATO powers, as they debate how to respond to the Russian military intervention in Syria.

The Syrian government, which recently recaptured Palmyra, has been vastly strengthened by Russian operations and airstrikes. Speaking yesterday on CBS News Face the Nation program upon his return from talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Geneva, US Secretary of State John Kerry indicated that Washington was considering taking a more conciliatory stance toward Russia.

Kerry said, Russia has helped to bring about the Iran nuclear agreement, Russia helped to get the chemical weapons out of Syria. Russia is now helping with the cessation of hostilities [in Syria]. And if Russia can help us to actually effect this political transitionthat is all to the strategic interests of the United States of America.

Such proposals pose a deadly threat to ISIS, its fighters in Syria, and its recruiting networks and operatives internationally, all of which are products of the US-led imperialist wars in Iraq, Libya and Syria. The Brussels attacks have the character of a bloody signal from ISIS that, due to its substantial logistical infrastructure within Europe, it can retaliate against Russian airstrikes and a possible cut-off of NATO support in Syria with deadly terror attacks in Europe and beyond.

The victims of such atrocities, and the criminal policies of the imperialist powers that ultimately spawned them, are innocent civilians across the Middle East and North Africa, and increasingly within Europe itself.
Job losses continue to mount as investment in new drilling projects has plummeted in response to the collapse in oil prices over the last year and a half. While oil prices are generally believed to have bottomed out and have begun a modest recovery, prices still remain at around 60 percent of their 2014 highs when oil traded for more than $100 per barrel.

The crisis is particularly pronounced in the United States, where oil companies poured massive amounts of money into investment projects after the 2008 financial crisis to take advantage of rising oil prices. Since January 2015, 15,700 jobs in oil and gas and nearly 100,000 jobs in supporting industries have been lost in the US, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Over that same span, the number of US oil and gas rigs has collapsed from 1,811 to only 489, or a staggering 73% in a little more than a year, according to a recent report by the Brookings Institution. The traditional oil producing state of Texas has accounted for nearly one-half of these closures with 614, while oil production in the state of Utah has been wiped out entirely.

Extrapolating from studies on the economic impact of oil well closures, the Brookings Institution estimates that the long-term effects of these closures could lead to 226,000 to 296,000 job losses nationwide. In North Dakota, where the states largest oil producer, Whiting Petroleum, decided last month to suspend major operations in the state, this decline would represent over 7 percent of the states total number of employed.

Emboldened by the easy-money policies of the Federal Reserve and the infrastructure boom in China, which propped up global commodities prices for years after the 2008 financial crisis, US oil companies loaded up on debt to the tune of an estimated $237 billion to finance major drilling projects. In particular, these projects relied upon new, environmentally destructive fracking technologies to access previously untapped and difficult-to-reach oil reserves.

The collapse in oil prices beginning in 2014 left the US oil industry particularly exposed, which had nearly doubled its production since 2007. Bankruptcy filings in the oil and gas industry shot up 379 percent in 2015, encompassing at least 67 firms, and Fortune Magazine argues that this number could grow six fold in 2016. By the time this is over this might be the worst of all the [oil] busts, one oil executive told the Washington Post.

The international situation looks little better. The Deloitte consulting firm predicts that as many as one-third of all global oil companies are at risk of bankruptcy this year, with the 175 most at-risk companies holding more than $150 billion in debt. A global survey of oil and gas executives found that nearly 75 percent were preparing their companies for a sustained period of low oil prices, with job cuts one of the top three methods they cited to control costs, according to a CNBC report. Thirty-one percent of respondents expected further cuts to employment over the current year, an increase of 6 percent over last year.

Far from signaling a return to health for the industry, a major factor behind the bottoming out of oil over the past few months has been the collapse in output among non-OPEC oil producers.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) in March estimated that oil production among non-OPEC countries will fall by 750,000 barrels per day in 2016, up from its previous estimate of 600,000. Among non-OPEC oil producers outside the US, according to a report in the British Telegraph, the collapse in output among these countries has proceeded at four times the rate expected by analysts at the IEA, with net output declining by 220,000 barrels per day in China, Russia, Mexico, Canada and the North Sea.

Pressures on the North Sea led to an estimated 65,000 job losses in Britain last year, with possibly 45,000 more jobs on the block for 2016. In Norway, which also borders the North Sea, an estimated 200,000 jobs are threatened by the crisis of the oil industry in that country. The collapse in oil prices has caused a crunch in new investments, with an estimated $380 billion in planned oil projects being put on hold.

In spite of a modest increase in oil prices to roughly $40 per barrel, a major longer-term concern for oil companies continues to be slumping demand in China, which accounted for 35 percent of global demand since 2000, according to a report by Forbes. The IEAs forecast for growth in Chinese demand this year is an anemic 330,000 barrels per day, well below the 10-year average of 440,000. The drying up of Chinese demand over the past two years has contributed to a collapse in commodities prices across the board.

For the oil industry, additional downward pressure on prices has been produced by the refusal of Saudi Arabia to cut oil production in the face of slumping demand. While this has been done in large measure to force out its competitors in other parts of the world, geopolitical concerns are also a major consideration for Saudi Arabia.

As one commentator in Forbes candidly put it, [What Saudi Arabia cares about] is Russia and Iran being able to fund destabilizing groups that threaten their regime. Keeping oil down helps the US and somewhat prevents Russia and Iran from funding these groups to the point they can win. By destabilizing groups, the commentator euphemistically refers to Russia and Irans opposition to the US-led proxy war in Syria, where US and Saudi-backed Islamic fundamentalists have played a leading role.

The author continues: Whats happening right now is to artificially pump oil into the market to depress the prices such that ISIS and Putin will run out of funds for their adventures. Its not a coincidence that the oil price started tanking when Putin invaded Ukraine, again referring euphemistically to Russias opposition to the toppling of the government of neighboring Ukraine by fascist thugs backed by the US.
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25 years ago: Chairman of East German privatization agency assassinated

On April 1, 1991, Detlev Rohwedder, chairman of the institution responsible for the privatization of East German industriesthe Treuhandwas assassinated by a sniper. As chair of the Treuhand, Rohwedder was responsible for 8,000 former state-run companies of East Germany, employing 6-7 million workers.

In the space of a few months since capitalist reunification of Germany the previous October, nearly 1 million jobs were destroyed in the old German Democratic Republic (GDR). According to official figures, jobs were being lost at the rate of 10,000 per day. Official unemployment in the east was estimated to reach 50 percent of the workforce, as workers registered as short-time would lose their jobs.

In previous weeks, hundreds of thousands of workers returned to the streets of Berlin, Leipzig and Dresden to protest against the consequences of the reunification. On Monday March 25, for the third consecutive week, 80,000 workers and youth assembled in the main square of Leipzig to express their disillusionment with the German government and demand the resignation of Chancellor Helmut Kohl. In addition, tens of thousands of workers demonstrated in Zwickau, Erfurt, Cottbus and the shipyard town of Rostock. Kohl must go! and Helmut out! were two popular slogans.

A few days after the first of the Monday demonstrations resumed in Lieipzig in March, the government in Bonn announced that on August 1 rents in the former GDR would be doubled and in many cases tripled.

Klaus Zwickel, the deputy chairman of IG Metall, the largest German trade union, publicly expressed his fears that the movement developing in the working class could go beyond the control of the union. He told the Frankfurter Rundschau, In view of the hopelessness confronting the people there, it cant be excluded that a point will be reached where a purely trade union perspective is insufficient. We can only hope it doesnt come to such an explosion.

Rohwedders murder could well have been a provocation aimed at discrediting the workers movement against Treuhand. He was shot through the window of his home in Dusseldorf. According to Wikipedia, The shots were fired from 63 m away from a rifle with 7.6251mm NATO standard calibre. An inspection of the scene found three cartridge cases, a plastic chair, a towel, and a letter claiming responsibility from an RAF [terrorist organization Red Army Faction] commando named after Ulrich Wessel, a minor RAF figure who had died in 1975. The shooter has never been identified.

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50 years ago: Strikes, demonstrations, bring down Ecuador junta

On March 29, 1966, the Ecuador junta headed by Admiral Ramon Castro Jijon fled the Government Palace in Quito after a week of mass labor strikes and student demonstrations. Jijon resigned as president, a position he had held since the coup that established the junta in 1963. The other members of the three-man junta, General Marcos Gandara and General Luis Cabrera, also resigned from government. The next day banana plantation owner and economics professor Clemente Yerovi was sworn in as interim president.

The 1963 coup had been welcomed by the Kennedy administration, one of a spate of CIA-backed coups in Latin America and the Caribbean that gave the lie to the democratic pretensions of Kennedys Alliance for Progress initiative.

The right-wing junta proved incapable, however, of addressing the underlying social and economic crisis of the impoverished South American country. The growth of the cities, and the decline of agriculture, exposed the feudal huasipungo plantation system, whereby indigenous peasants were allowed tiny plots of land in exchange for plantation labor. However, the juntas Agrarian Reform Law, imposed in 1964, was stillborn. The situation was exacerbated by declining revenue from bananas, then the countrys leading export.

Racked by mounting debt, the junta resorted to the imposition of import taxes, a move that triggered the March 1966, call to strike by the right-wing Chamber of Commerce. Ecuadors working class and student youth seized on the opening provided, as strikes and demonstrations swept the country. A military crackdown at Central University failed to stem the revolutionary tide, and the junta fled.

It was replaced by a market-oriented regime under Yerovi, who was then replaced in a general election by another moderate, Otto Arosemena Gomez, in 1967. The following year, the left-nationalist Jose Maria Velasco Ibarra was returned to office for the fifth time, 34 years after his first election. Velasco would be driven from office in yet another CIA-backed coup in 1972.

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75 years ago: Strikes cripple US arms production

On April 2, 1941 autoworkers, steel workers, miners and other industrial workers launched powerful strikes against corporations under military contract. Everywhere workers brushed aside the argument that it was unpatriotic to strike as US imperialism stepped up arms production in preparation for entry into World War II. The strikes brought calls from Congress for the death penalty against strikers.

Throughout March, a series of sit-down strikes against beatings and victimizations of over 1,000 UAW members rocked Fords giant River Rouge plant in Dearborn, Michigan. On April 2, a new provocation caused all 85,000 workers to walk out. Fords attempt to use 10,000 black autoworkers as strikebreakers failed as nearly 90 percent immediately joined the union.

When Ford attempted to reopen the plant the following day using 8,000 armed goons and Dearborn police, workers set up barricades blocking access in a 10-square-mile area around the plant. The strike broke Fords resistance and led to the establishment of the first full union shop in the auto industry.

At Bethlehem Steel the victimization of 1,000 steel workers and attempts by the company to foist a company union on the ranks resulted in massive strikes involving 90,000 workers. The strikes won bargaining rights for the CIOs Steel Workers Organizing Committee (SWOC) and paved the way for wage increases for 603,000 steel workers across the country.

Unable to control the upsurge, the United Mine Workers (UMWA) led by John L. Lewis refused to accept mediation by the new National Mediation Defense Board, set up by Roosevelt to block strikes against war production. Four hundred thousand soft coal miners in the eight-state Appalachian coal fields walked out and won a $1-a-day wage increase and the first paid vacations in the history of the UMWA. The strike was particularly violent in Harlan County, where company thugs machine-gunned miners, killing four and wounding five more.

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100 years ago: Mass strike of construction workers in New York City

On April 3, 1916, thousands of workers engaged in constructing the New York City subway system walked off the job after their demands for improved pay and conditions were ignored by the General Contractors Association.

Four thousand timbermen and laborers who were members of the Tunnel and Subway Constructors International Union met in Harlem on April 2, and were addressed by leaders of the union along with representatives of Central Federated Union, the local organization of the American Federation of Labor.

Ten thousand workers employed by 40 contractors were engaged in the subway construction. The union was demanding a wage increase for timbermen of 75 cents per day, from $2.50 to $3.25, and for timbermens helpers of 25 to 40 cents, up to $2.40 a day. For laborers, the demand was for wages to be raised to $2 a day, up from the previous rate of just $1.60-$1.75. Workers were also calling for union recognition, and genuine observance of the eight-hour day, which was regularly broken.

On the first day of the strike, between 4,000 and 5,000 workers walked out, crippling construction. In Brooklyn, the strike was almost 100 percent successful.

On April 5, 2,000 drill-runners and blasters downed tools in protest against the employers attempts to force them to carry out the work normally done by the strikers. Work on several of the most important sections of the subway construction was brought to a halt as a result.

The contractors saw the demand for $2 a day for the laborers as a major threat, as the union had warned in its leaflets that the demand would not be restricted to subway work. As many as 100,000 laborers would have been affected by a general rise in the prevailing wage, including those employed by street and railway companies and those on city-owned construction work on sewers, water mains, and other public utilities.

The strike vote was taken in Italian, the native language of the predominantly migrant workforce in attendance. The overwhelming support for the vote, and the strike, provided yet another manifestation of the radicalization of American labor in the decade from 1910 to 1919, a period which saw major strikes among many sections of the working class, including textile workers, coal miners, iron miners, and steel workers.

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Students at Concordia University, partnered with others at the University of Nebraska Lincoln and Nebraska Wesleyan University, are hosting Run to Restore, a 5k walk/run on April 16. Other activities are scheduled for the preceding days.

Lighthouse: Illuminate to Liberate is a club trying to raise awareness about domestic and global human trafficking. The issue was raised by International Justice Mission, an organization paired with Lighthouse, which is trying to end social justice issues. The run will be the final event in what is being called Justice Week.

Lighthouse thought a 5K would be a great way for the community to get involved, have a fun family event, raise awareness and see what we as a club are doing, said club co-founder Liz Schmidt. It's also great to know all the proceeds are going towards the International Justice Mission, the non-profit organization our club is paired with, who directly provides resources to victims of social injustices.

The run is just one of the five events held from April 11-16.

The race starts at 9 a.m., with check-in at 8 a.m. at Walz Human Performance Complex on campus. Registration is available online at https://runsignup.com/Race/NE/Seward/RuntoRestore2016. The cost is $27.50.

More information about the events can be found at runsignup.com and information about International Justice Mission can be found at ijm.com.

Justice Week Activities

April 11: Stand for Freedom awareness efforts, with signs posted on campus and photos taken for social media

April 12: Students will travel to UNLs campus to take part in a candlelight vigil and worship hour

April 13: Lighthouse will be featured at Praise!, Concordias Wednesday evening worship service, at 9 p.m.

April 14: Students will travel to the Green Space, an outdoor area on UNLs campus, for a Remedy Drive concert

April 16: 5K Run to Restore will be held in Seward, Nebraska.
The Butler County Arts Council is hosting an outstanding rock band at the Thorpe Opera House at 7 p.m. Saturday April 2.

This very listenable rock group is also a pleasure to see in action and they are generously contributing their door donations and more to the Thorpe Opera House. Delicious desserts will be sold at the event to raise additional funds.

Eyes for Higher is an Alternative Rock band based in Lincoln that has been recording and performing original music for around four years. Their music is co-written by all five members of the band. Each brings his own unique influences, talents and musical personalities to create and perform the music that they love.

Eyes for Higher released its second recorded project, the Balanced and Broken EP, in November 2015 following the 2014 release of their fourteen song album Barriers.

Eyes for Higher is fronted by David City native, Alex Comte. Alex focuses on writing lyrics for the songs as well as performing and recording all of the lead vocals. Also originally from the David City area are guitarists Tony Birkel and Nate Roh. Nate, a senior advertising-public relations major at UNL, plays rhythm guitar for the band. Nate also writes lyrics and guitar parts for the group.

Tony, who currently resides in Washington state as a FOCUS missionary, plays the lead guitar. Tony writes lead guitar and lyrics for the band. South Dakota native Treavor Heeney plays and writes bass guitar for Eyes for Higher. Treavor helps smooth out the writing/performing process with impactful bass lines and a thorough knowledge of his instrument.

Filling in all the spaces and keeping Eyes for Higher on time is Drummer, Adam Kovar. Adam, a Lincolnite, plays a major role in the way the band writes and performs on stage by infusing songs with intricate fills and grooves. Adam, Tony and Nate provide the backing vocals both live and in the studio.

Eyes for Higher is extremely excited, again, to be playing at the Thorpe Opera House. The band played a benefit show for the Opera house, partnered with the Butler County Arts Council in the Summer of 2015. The band also recorded their first music video for the song Balanced and Broken at the Thorpe. Eyes for Higher is truly honored to be a small part of the history at such a magnificently historic venue, members said.

These and other opportunities to experience the arts would not be possible without the support of many organizations and individuals. The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported these arts events through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Visit www.nebraskaartscouncil.org for information on how the Nebraska Arts Council can assist your organization, or how you can support the Nebraska Cultural Endowment. Grants have already been received for this coming season from the Nebraska Arts Council/Nebraska Cultural Endowment, the Butler County Area Foundation Fund and pledges from annual sponsors which include Grand Benefactors-Bank of the Valley, Cornerstone Bank of Rising City, David City Public Schools, East Butler Public Schools, Aquinas & St. Marys Catholic Schools, Moravec Financial Advisers, Inc., Corporate Sponsors- The Banner~Press; Bierbower Law Office; Butler County Clinic PC; Butler County Health Care Center; Butler County Landfill, Inc; Chermok Funeral Home; Dales Food Pride; david place; Eberle Insurance Agency-STATE FARM; Egr, Birkel and Wollmer, PC; First National Bank-David City; First Nebraska Bank-Brainard; Kracl Funeral Chapel; Rehmer Auto Parts; Roh Farms, Inc; St. Josephs Villa Inc. & Court; St. Lukes UMC (in-kind giving); Union Bank & Trust- David City.
COLUMBUS  A 62-year-old Columbus man confined to a wheelchair barely raised his eyes from the floor to look up at the judge on the bench Monday while pleading no contest to drug dealing and weapons charges in Platte County District Court.

Defendant Steven Randall Sr. pleaded to possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver and attempted possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person in a plea bargain with the prosecution that avoids a jury trial previously set to get underway next week.

The two Class II felonies are each punishable by up to 50 years imprisonment.

In exchange for Randalls pleas, the county attorneys office dismissed two other felony weapons charges and agreed not to oppose probation when Randall is sentenced in April.

Randall was charged in connection with a Dec. 17 police raid at his residence at a local mobile home park. The raid was conducted by Columbus Police and a Nebraska State Patrol SWAT team.

Judge Robert Steinke scheduled Randall for sentencing April 26, but not before issuing a warning to the defendant.

The prosecutions agreement not to argue against probation is not binding on the court, Steinke told the defendant.

Randall has been in custody at the county jail since the day of the police raid.

Court documents describe multiple handguns, three shotguns and ammunition, more than an ounce of meth, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and other items seized during the bust.

Police Investigator Jeremy Zywiec wrote in his statement supporting Randalls arrest that the search warrant was sought following a meeting with a confidential informant.

One of the shotguns was located in the bedroom under a pillow on the bed, Zywiec wrote in his statement. The shotgun was a pistol grip shotgun with a total length of approximately 25 1/2 inches. The barrel length was measured at 15 inches.

Officers also seized a digital scale, large quantity of meth and marijuana pipes and notebook paper with dollar amounts and weights noted that appeared to be a ledger of drugs sold or purchased, the investigator wrote.

Randall, who had an outstanding bench warrant in Platte County for failure to appear for a debtors exam at the time of the raid, was previously convicted of burglary in August 1978 and forgery in October 2002.
LINCOLN  Time is running out for Nebraska lawmakers to address some of the most high-profile issues of the year, and legislative leaders now concede that some priorities probably won't get debated.

When they reconvene Tuesday, senators will have 11 working days left in their short, 60-day session with contentious issues unresolved: property taxes, medical marijuana and a new Medicaid proposal to provide health coverage to low-income people.

Lawmakers spent much of the session slogging through drawn-out debates on issues including poker, meatpacker ownership of hogs and hunting permit fees.

Part of the slowdown is caused by a dramatic increase in filibusters in the last few years to block legislation. So far this year, senators have filed 13 cloture motions to try to break filibusters, according to the legislative clerk's office. Senators filed 14 motions last year and nine in 2014, but in prior years the number ranged from one to six.

"This will be remembered as the year of the filibuster," said Sen. Heath Mello of Omaha. "It's obviously put a lot of pressure on all of us in the last days of the session."

Mello said senators aren't finding as many compromises on bills as they did when he came into office nearly eight years ago, and senators are also mounting filibusters against bills that initially weren't viewed as controversial.

Sen. Ken Schilz of Ogallala said the long debates reflect the controversial issues lawmakers have sought to address this year.

"The short sessions are always crazy, and none of them has quite the same flavor," said Schilz, who leaves office in January because of term limits. "But with this one, we started out with contentious issues. That contention has just kind of percolated through the whole session."

Speaker of the Legislature Galen Hadley said he doubts all of the bills designated as "priorities" this year will see debate. Hadley said he's urging lawmakers to take early "test votes" on bills so senators can see whether they have enough votes to advance them.

Hadley said the Legislature has seen a steady increase in filibusters in the last few years because lawmakers see it as a way to block bills when they're in the minority. Advancing a bill takes 25 votes in the 49-member Legislature, but breaking a filibuster raises the vote threshold to 33.

"People have decided that it's a good way to stop a bill," said Hadley, of Kearney. "If you don't have 25 votes to stop it, you can filibuster and stop it with 17 or 18."

Longtime lobbyist Walt Radcliffe said the session has moved "like a glacier" as senators roll from one filibuster to another. Years ago, before voters enacted term limits, Radcliffe said many controversial issues were decided with a simple majority.

"The days of passing a bill 28-21 are gone," Radcliffe said. "I think you've got more polarized positions in the Legislature. People are less inclined to try to reach compromises."

Under a new policy adopted this year, filibusters generally last up to six hours during first-round debate, four hours before a second-round vote and two hours on a bill's final reading. First-round debate took at least eight hours in previous years, but Hadley announced that he was shortening the time because filibusters were becoming more common.

Lawmakers have also begun to work longer days, starting at 9 a.m. and staying until at least 7 p.m. most days. Lunch breaks were shortened from 90 minutes to 20. Hadley said lawmakers may have to stay later into the evening as the session's end nears, but he tries to avoid it because he has concerns about the quality of legislation when senators and their staffs are tired and many of the senators have checked out for the day.
Natural gas may have taken over as the dominant source nationally for electrical power generation in 2016, but coal remains king in Nebraska.

This year promises to be the first in which natural gas surpasses coal, the nations dominant energy source for decades, according to a U.S. Energy Information Administration forecast released earlier this month.

U.S. power generation is expected to be fueled 32 percent by coal and 33.4 percent by natural gas in 2016. While natural gas use topped coal several months last year, analysts consider its anticipated overtake of coal for an entire year to be a more notable upset.

But in Nebraska, where utility scale net generation amounted to 39,291,000 megawatt hours in 2015, coal fueled 61.5 percent of electricity produced last year while natural gas made up 1 percent, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration data. Nuclear, the second most abundant source, made up 26 percent of the power pie for the year, wind accounted for 8 percent and hydroelectric 4 percent.

By comparison, Iowa net generation in 2015 was 57,172,000 megawatt hours, of which 53 percent came from coal, 31 percent from wind, 9 percent nuclear, 4 percent natural gas and about 1 percent hydroelectric.

The explanation both for the nations growing appetite for natural gas and Nebraskas continuing reliance on coal is the same: price.

It really does boil down to dollars and cents. It always does, Nebraska Public Power District President and CEO Pat Pope said during a recent interview.

Nationally, coal made up about 50 percent of electrical power generation from 2000 to 2008 because it was significantly cheaper than natural gas. In recent years, however, the price gap has narrowed as the shale gas boom unleashed by fracking drove down natural gas prices and made it a more attractive option for many areas.

But in Nebraska, coal remains cheaper. The average cost of coal delivered for power generation in Nebraska -- measured in dollars per million British thermal units -- was $1.34 in December, making it the cheapest in the nation and about 30 percent less than the national average, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administrations Electric Power Monthly report.

Natural gas delivered in Nebraska cost $3.44 per unit, nearly 2 times more than coal.

Will that last forever? What is the outlook? Pope pondered. Were all waiting to see ultimately what form the Clean Power Plan takes.

Released last year, the federal plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and is scheduled to go into effect in 2022. But it has been stayed by the U.S. Supreme Court pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.

As electric generators age and get replaced the trend will likely be away from coal simply because it will be "next to impossible to get a coal plant permitted for construction," Lincoln Electric System Vice President of Power Supply Jason Fortik said.

Natural gas releases fewer greenhouse gases than coal when burned. But it remains controversial because of the fracking methods used to mine it from the ground and because if it leaks into the air without being burned it can contribute more in the short term to global warming than carbon dioxide.

There have been some small shifts away from coal in Nebraska.

NPPD plans to switch one of two steam boilers at Sheldon Station near Hallam to burn hydrogen instead of coal as part of a new venture with Monolith Materials Inc.

The California-based company plans to build a new plant next to Sheldon Station to produce carbon black, a fine, flourlike powder used in tires, plastic, inks and cellphones. Monolith will use electricity to extract the carbon from natural gas, producing hydrogen and water, then sell the hydrogen to NPPD as fuel.

Omaha Public Power District plans to retire three of its oldest coal-fired units at the North Omaha Generating Station this year and convert two other units to gas by 2023.

More renewable energy sources also have begun to creep into Nebraskas energy portfolio.

Lincoln Electric System, for example, is building a 5 megawatt solar farm at Northwest 75th and Holdrege streets, has invested in wind farms including the 73-megawatt Prairie Breeze II in Antelope and Boone counties, and is buying 100 megawatts each from the Buckeye Wind Farm near Hays, Kansas, and the Arbuckle Mountain Wind Farm in Oklahoma.

In recent years, LES has shifted its capacity to produce electricity to be equally divided between renewable energy, coal and gas. But the decision about which of those electricity generating resources gets turned on is made by the Southwest Power Pool, which starts with the most efficient ones first.

The pool, based in Little Rock, Arkansas, oversees the vast majority of the electric grid and wholesale power market in 14 states on behalf of utilities and transmission companies. It determines how much electricity is needed in the grid, then tells utilities to turn on the power as needed, starting with the most efficient facilities first.

LES is forecasting coal will fuel 65 percent of the power it generates in 2016, renewable sources will make up 32 percent and oil and natural gas will be 3 percent.

Thats a significant change from 2014, when coal was 85 percent, renewable was 5.1 percent, oil and natural gas were just under 3 percent and the remainder was power purchased wholesale from other providers.
LINCOLN  More than 12,000 new voters already have registered through Nebraska's new online system and the state could be headed toward a record voter turnout this year with a hot presidential election galvanizing national interest.

"Political drama engages people's attention," Secretary of State John Gale said while reviewing the success of the new online registration process launched last September.

"We have both the drama and energy of what could be a close general election," he said.

In addition to an electric presidential race, a referendum to restore Nebraska's death penalty is likely to spur voter turnout at the general election, he said.

Meanwhile, a Republican presidential struggle that has been raging all year still might be undecided by Nebraska's May 10 primary election and that could deal Nebraska Republicans into the process for the first time in decades this spring.

And it's not just the GOP presidential struggle that could attract primary voters, Gale suggested, because there also are competitive legislative battles in play all across the state.

Nebraskans are engaged and that's good news for a secretary of state who said he is pleased by voter activity and interest.

On the first day of online voter registration, 870 people signed up, Assistant Secretary of State Laura Strimple said.

"We have heard from teachers who helped register students in their classrooms," she said.

Best guess is that a considerable portion of the new voters who registered online are young Nebraskans, most of whom probably registered on their mobile electronic devices.

Currently, Gale said, 1,161,207 citizens are registered to vote.

Since last June, registration has increased by nearly 26,000.

"I wouldn't be surprised to see registrations jump another 30,000" before the general election in November, Gale said.

The first round of early primary voting ballots will be mailed out April 4.

Meanwhile, the Legislature and secretary of state are poised to launch studies of future election mechanics.

The Legislature is taking a look at election technology needs, mindful that election equipment in Nebraska is aging. Gale's office will meet with "an advisory group of stakeholders" to consider how to conduct future elections.

"Many county officials want an all-mail system," Gale said. "My sense is there is momentum for all mail-in ballots."
In the past year, Chennai real estate has witnessed both highs and lows in the market. Since the announcement of the Smart City concept in India, the real estate market has started rejuvenating. As a result, the city authorities are trying to improve several civic amenities such as water supply, sewage, storm water drains, transport and are also focusing on green development.

The green building concept is slowly catching pace in the real estate market. The innovative 'green' storm has captured the city and many foreign companies have also come forward to partner with Chennai for the proposed Smart City project.

Currently, Chennai is growing rapidly because of competitive conditions, IT growth and strong port activity that are happening on a daily basis.

A Shankar, national director Strategic Consulting, Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) India says, "In Chennai, developers are using various types of Aluminium Form Work, which not only reduces the construction timelines considerably but also helps save on costs. The benefits are quite substantial and the cost of savings can be passed on to the buyers."

The Aluminium Form Work technology is used successfully in Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and the Middle East for construction of apartments and buildings. The technology is quite cost-effective. The form-work can also be made using moulds out of steel, wood and prefabricated forms. There are various kinds of Aluminium Form Work such as Mivan, Tunnel Form Work, AluForm, KwikForm, GFRG (Glass Fibre Reinforced Gypsum), etc, that are being used in construction activities.

"The advantage of Aluminium Form Work is that they ensure quality products and the delivery is quick. However, any changes or modifications to the internal layout are restricted to a large extent. Apart from this, lots of other technologies available in other major cities of India, are also available and being used in Chennai," adds Shankar.

ICT's role in real estate

The city limits have been expanding fast and many new localities have been brought under the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA).There is an increase in growth opportunities, which are expected to expand in future. Areas such as West Tambaram, Manapakkam, Porur and Vanagaram have immense scope. Also, there are many computer centric designing techniques which are developing day-by-day. The use of ICT (Information and Communications Technology) will play a pivotal role in Chennai's real estate development. "Innovative technology should be used to develop the physical infrastructure in Chennai now. Residential complexes can use hi-technology to manage the parking facility. There are many latest foreign techniques that can help to develop the city," says a real estate broker, Suresh Vani based in Chennai.

Industry experts also opine that the Greater Corporation of Chennai has been using a mobile-based application called 'Waste Bin Clearance Monitoring System' with Geographic Information System (GIS) interface to check the status of bins. "Further, feasibility is being studied for implementing smart bins for waste collection. These smart bins help in geo-fencing each bin, monitoring waste levels and preliminary crushing or compaction of waste. The proposed construction debris waste processing plant will help in management of construction waste and also generate enough power to become self-sufficient," Shankar adds.

Moreover, the ICT components on the existing infra structure will make the utilities and services more efficient which will form the base for developing a Smart City.

"In line with this principle, the Chennai Smart City proposal too has emphasised the importance of technology," explains Shankar. The scope for new innovation and growth is immense in localities where under construction projects are in plenty. Joining hands with foreign companies will also help rope in the best practices in the industry. It seems that the city's real estate sector is all set to make good use of this growing technology.

Source: Times Property, Magicbricks Bureau/ Chennai
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Robert E. Stone Sr., 77, of Carlisle, PA passed away Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016 in his home. He was born January 19, 1939 in Columbia, PA to the late Harold A. & Helen V. Smith Stone. Robert retired from Yellow Freight with 30 years of service and was a member of the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church. He served his country in the US Navy and was a member of the Central Pennsylvania Teamsters.

Robert is survived by his wife of 15 years, Virginia Wilson Stone; daughters, Deanna (Robert) Rohrer of Quarryville, PA and Joyce (Gary) Jackson of Leland, NC; his step children, Kevin Downey of Fairfax, VA, Melissa (Brian) Davis of Brighton, CO and Rebecca (Robert) Reeves of Frederick, MD. Also surviving are two grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and brother, George Stone of Wrightsville, PA.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, March 31, 2016 at 11:00 AM in the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 201 W. Louther St., Carlisle, PA 17013, with Rev. Robert Moore, officiating. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to his church or to the Hershey Medical Center, for Heart Research, A120 P.O. Box 852, Hershey, PA 17033. Online condolences may be made to www.hollingerfuneralhome.com
Presidents Rule imposed in Uttarakhand

Published: March 28, 2016

President Pranab Mukherjee has imposed Presents Rule (State Emergency) in the state of Uttarakhand in the wake of constitutional breakdown under Article 356 of Constitution.

In this regard, President has signed the proclamation state Emergency based on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet.

With this proclamation, Congress Government headed by Chief Minister Harish Rawat ceased to function and the state Assembly has been suspended.

Background

The constitutional breakdown in state was due rebellion in the ruling Congress Government after its nine rebel MLAs rebelled, bringing government in minority in the state legislature.

These 9 rebel MLAs were disqualified by the speaker under the anti-defection law. This disqualification had reduced the strength of the 70-member house to 61. So the final tally of Congress MLAs was 27 and BJP had 28 MLAs.

About Presidents Rule

Article 356 empowers the President to issue a proclamation of Presents Rule (State Emergency), if he is satisfied that situation has arisen in which government of a state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Notably, he can act accordance with the report of the Governor or without it.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2016

Topics: article 356  Current Affairs 2016  National  President's rule  States  Uttarakhand

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Syrian Army recaptures historic city of Palmyra from IS

Published: March 28, 2016

Syrian Army and popular defence forces have regained control of the ancient city of Palmyra from Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist group.

The liberation of the historic city of Palmyra from the ISIS terror group was undertaken by joint efforts of Syrian Army with support of national aviation and Russian Aerospace Forces.

The ancient city of Palmyra is a UNESCO designated World Heritage site and home to some of the worlds most magnificent ancient ruins.

Background

ISIS had taken complete control of the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra in May 2015. After the seizure of entire ancient city, they had destroyed many ancient ruins.

The city is situated in a strategically important area on the road between Syrias capital Damascus and the oil rich eastern city of Deir al-Zour.

Oil and gas produced from the fields located in Deir al-Zour, Syrian government used to generate electricity for areas under its control in the west of the country.

Earlier in March 2015, ISIS had demolished several ancient sites that pre-date Islam in Iraq, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites Hatra and Nimrud.

Some facts

Ancient city of Palmyra dates back to the first and second Century when it was under Roman rule. Palmyra was once a Silk Road hub and one of the cultural centres of the ancient world. The city occupies mythological status in Syria and is home to some of the most beautiful and well-preserved ruins of antiquity, including the Temple of Bel, built in 1st century.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2016

Topics: Current Affairs 2016  ISIS  Palmyra  Syria  Terrorism

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Union Health Ministry launches Indias first indigenous rotavirus vaccine Rotavac

Published: March 28, 2016

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched Indias first indigenous rotavirus vaccine named Rotavac to combat infant mortality due to diarrhoea.

It was launched by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda as part countrys ambitious Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).

The vaccine is being introduced initially in four States Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh (first to launch it) and Odisha. It would be expanded to the entire country in a phased manner.

The Rotavirus vaccine has been developed indigenously under a public-private partnership between the Union Ministry of Science Technology, Union Health Ministry, institutions of the US Government and NGOs in India supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

The vaccine is administered orally to infants in three dose course at ages of six, ten and fourteen weeks as part of Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).

Note: The Rotavac vaccine is addition to three new vaccines that have been introduced by Union Government as part of countrys UIP. These three vaccines are Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) , Measles, Rubella (MR) vaccine, and Adult Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine.

About Rotavirus

The Rotavirus is a genus of double-stranded RNA virus in the family Reoviridae .

. It most common causative agent of moderate-to-severe diarrhoea (MSD) among infants below 11 months age group and death among children less than five years of age.

Transmission: The virus spreads from person to person due to bacterial and parasiting agents that are primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water.

The virus spreads from person to person due to bacterial and parasiting agents that are primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. Impact on Health: It causes gastroenteritis after it damages the cells that line the small intestine and causes gastroenteritis. In some cases in causes malnutrition, delayed physical and mental development among children

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2016

Topics: Current Affairs 2016  Health Ministry  Odisha  Public health  Publich Health  ROTAVAC  Rotavirus  Science and Technology

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FARMINGTON  Don Karl Giessing of Farmington passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, March 27, 2016, at St. Lukes Hospital in St. Louis at the age of 70. He was born August 21, 1945, in Ironton, Missouri, the son of the late Walter Karl Giessing and Leora (Blanton) Giessing who survives.

Don was a 1963 graduate of Farmington High School and went on to attend college at Southeast Missouri State in Cape Girardeau until he was drafted into the Army. He proudly served in the U. S. Army from 1966 to 1968 in Vietnam. After he was discharged he served ten years in the Army Reserve. For seventeen years Don was a volunteer for the Farmington Fire Department. He was retired from a twenty-two year career with the Department of Corrections in Farmington. Don was a past commander of the Farmington VFW Post 5896. In his spare time he enjoyed going to the Black River where the family had a cabin. His farm Persimmon Ranch was where he enjoyed raising miniature horses, bird watching, woodworking and living the country life.
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PSU banks will get Rs 25,000 crore this fiscal and also in the next fiscal.

New Delhi: The government is likely to infuse additional capital of about Rs 5,050 crore in some public sector banks this week. Parliament has already approved Rs 5,050 crore for meeting additional expenditure on recapitalisation of public sector banks earlier this month.

The capital infusion by the Finance Ministry in the identified banks would be done soon, which could be as early as this week itself, sources said. Likely contenders for the fresh round of infusion include Central Bank of India, Indian Bank, UCO Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, Vijaya Bank and United Bank of India.

It will be part of the Rs 25,000 crore capital infusion plan earmarked for the current fiscal. In the first tranche, as many as 13 public sectors banks were given fund support of Rs 19,950 crore. Of this, SBI got the highest amount of Rs 5,393 crore followed by Bank of India Rs 2,455 crore.

Besides, government infused Rs 2,229 crore in IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank Rs 2,009 crore and Punjab National Bank Rs 1,732 crore. Last year, the government announced a revamp plan 'Indradhanush' to infuse Rs 70,000 crore in state-owned banks over four years, while they will have to raise a further Rs 1.1 lakh crore from the markets to meet their capital requirements in line with global risk norms Basel-III.

In line with the blueprint, PSU banks will get Rs 25,000 crore this fiscal and also in the next fiscal. Besides, Rs. 10,000 crore each would be infused in 2017-18 and 2018-19.
The 29-year-old actress bagged National Award for her film ' Tanu Weds Manu', whereas Amitabh Bachchan won best actor.

Mumbai: The 63rd National Film Awards are back and the day marks a special celebration for Kangana Ranaut as she has been awarded with the Best Actress title for the second time in a row!

The 29-year-old actress bagged National Award for her film ' Tanu Weds Manu', whereas Amitabh Bachchan won best actor.

Thrilled with the love and admiration that has been bestowed upon her, Kangana Ranaut said in a statement, "Its the best birthday gift I could have got. I am thrilled and feel blessed. Specially since Mr Bachchan is the best actor with me. Now I am thinking about what to wear for the ceremony."

The actress, who is currently in Manali, will be next seen opposite to Shahid Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan in 'Rangoon'.

Kangana won her first National Award in 2010 for Best Supporting Actress in 'Fashion'. Later, the actress was awarded with her first Best Actress for her stellar performance in 'Queen'.
Virat Kohli wrote, Shame on those people who have been having a go at Anushka for the longest time and connecting every negative thing to her.

Mumbai: Team Indias batting mainstay Virat Kohli has lashed out at critics for trolling his ex-girlfriend Anushka Sharma after Indias emphatic win against Australia in the ICC World T20 on Sunday.

Kohli took to microblogging site Twitter to say that Bollywood actress Anushka has always given him positivity.

Ever since the news of their alleged break up was out in the open, Anushka was always trolled whenever Kohli comes out after a fine batting performance. Sunday was no different.

After the Delhi-born Kohli single-handedly powered MS Dhoni and Co to the semis, Anushka was taken to the cleaners with incessant number of trolls.

It has become the norm nowadays on Twitter that whenever Kohli plays well, Anushka trolls are let loose. When the Indian vice-captain was going through a rough patch, Twitterati blamed it on the B-Town actress influence on him.

Kohli has finally broken his silence and opened up on the issue. He called the behaviour towards Anushka as shameful.

Shame on those people who have been having a go at Anushka for the longest time and connecting every negative thing to her. Shame on those people calling themselves educated. Shame on blaming and making fun of her when she has no control over what I do with my sport. If anything she has only motivated and given me more positivity. This was long time coming. Shame on these people that hide and take a dig, he said.

Shame on those people who have been having a go at anushka for the longest time and connecting every negative thing to her. Shame on those people calling themselves educated. Shame on blaming and making fun of her when she has no control over what i do with my sport. If anything she has only motivated and given me more positivity. This was long time coming. Shame on these people that hide and take a dig. And i dont need any respect for this post. Have some compassion and respect her. Think of how your sister or girlfriend or wife would feel if someone trolled them and very conveniently rubbished them in public. #nocompassion#nocommonsense A photo posted by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) on Mar 28, 2016 at 1:44am PDT

Anushka's friend lauded Virat for standing up for Anushka. Arjun posted-
With her not-so-noticeable career graph in Bollywood, actress Lauren Gottlieb is now working towards her foray into Tamil and Telugu cinema! Lauren, it seems, is happy with the feedback shes getting for her first Punjabi film Ambarsariya, and is looking forward to work down south.

A close sources to the actress reveals, For Lauren, Hindi was difficult  but Tamil is something she has never done before! She feels that talent in the south is phenomenal, and that shed really like to work in Tamil and Telugu films.

She has supposedly been taking lessons in Tamil as well, to improve her chances! But is Lauren putting rest to her Bollywood dreams for good? When we contacted her, she confirms, Im not putting Bollywood on hold at all. But just like I have started doing Punjabi movies, I would also love to expand and do southern films provided I get good stories. I have read a few Telugu scripts and they were very rich in content. Ive heard a lot of great things about the attention to detail the directors have in south  and I find that very admirable.

I will be travelling down south for three days, as I have meetings scheduled with a few directors and big production houses that have asked to meet me, she added. Watch this space for more!
One Night Stand was written keeping in mind Sunny Leones personality, says the director of the film, Jasmine DSouza. Before we started working on the project I had bounced off the idea to Sunny and she agreed to come on board immediately. So the role was written keeping her in mind.

Did she live up to her vision for the film and character? There were situations where Sunny wasnt looking at a particular scene the way I was looking at it. So we would have discussions on the sets and once she was convinced, she would shoot them the way I envisioned it.

The director stands up for Sunny who often finds herself in the midst of a controversy. I dont think its fair to judge someone because of the past. Sunny comes from the adult film industry but that doesnt make her any less of a human than us. Its our work that defines who we are. If I would have taken Priyanka Chopra or Deepika Padukone, then no one would have asked why I chose them for my film. Theres so much hypocrisy within the industry.

Rana Daggubati was to play the main lead in the film but due to the date clash with Baahubali he couldnt be a part of it. Tanuj Virwani will now star opposite Leone.

The producer Furquan Khan said, I am very happy with the product. I dont know what people think of Sunny Leone but let me tell you that she is very professional and an extremely hardworking actor. We finished the film in 55 days. It was shot in Bangkok, Mumbai and Pune.
Spending quality time with family is something everyone who works away from home, craves every now and then. Amy Jackson is no different!

The British-model-turned actress who was literally living out of suitcase, was shooting relentlessly for the last couple of months and shuttled between several cities for her commitments in various languages.

The I actress completed a schedule for sci-fi thriller 2.O, which is a sequel to Rajinikanth- Shankar combos Enthiran, at Bolivia and left to Bangkok for a commercial endorsement shoot. Later, she returned to Mumbai, where she lives and joined the team of Sohail Khans next film, in which she plays a role opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui.

Close sources to the svelte actress reveal that Amy wanted the much-needed break, and decided to make the most of the Easter weekend after she got off work. She packed up from her shoot last Thursday in Mumbai, and headed straight to the airport to fly out to UK and surprise her family and friends! Amy spent the weekend with them on this special holiday.

The Brit beauty was last seen in Udhayanidhis Gethu in Tamil. Meanwhile, she has also thanked the fans for making the trailer of her upcoming flick Theri with Vijay a huge hit, as it has crossed five million views. Shunning away from her usual glamorous look in the flick, she plays a teacher sporting a nerd avatar with short hair and a pair of spectacles!
Here are 6 reasons of why you should have sex everyday. (Photo: Instagram/ photomicona, Representative image)

When we are indulging in sexual activities, our mind is too occupied with just one thing. However, we often forget that having sex has its own health benefits.

Did you know having sex everyday could give you the boost that you need? Sex gives you and your partner the physical, mental and emotional boost.

Here are 6 reasons of why you should have sex everyday.

Lowers risk of prostate cancer:

Men who ejaculated more often automatically reduced their risk of having prostate cancer almost by 22 per cent, states a study from Harvard Medical School.

Now isnt this a great reason to have sex, so jump into the bed and have hot sex tonight.

Mental stability:

When you are tired, stressed or feel low, sex can easily restore everything. Studies claim that sex can restore all your positive thoughts and you will feel better about yourself as all the doubt drains away.

Though at times you might not feel very excited or you might not be able to perform, so begin with some kisses and cuddling.

Cuddling can help you to release a hormone known as Oxytocin, including dopamine, which can melt all of your stress away.

Helps to fight off cold and flu:

Researchers at Wilkes University in Pennsylvania found that people who had sex at least twice a week released more antigens like immunoglobulin A, which helps fight off colds and the flu.

So now remaining healthy can be a easy and filled with fun. Have sex all seven days and remain healthy and wealthy.

Keeps you young and confident:

According to a report by Cosmopolitan, a study by Scottish researcher and clinical neuropsychologist David Weeks, judges guessed the ages of 3,500 European and American women and men, and found that the people whose age was underestimated by seven to 12 years were also reporting having sex three times a week, in comparison to the control group which was doing it twice a week. They also found these young-looking babes to be really comfortable and confident about their sexual identity.

Now thats a win-win situation for all of them.

Emotional boost:

Sex is one of the best ways where you not only surrender physically but also surrender emotionally to your partner.

You give every bit of your raw feeling to your partner. Even if you dont say I love you, it doesnt mean that the moment meant nothing. Look at the way you connected with your partner, without any mask, you were yourself.

beings on such a intense setting such as sex can really boost your emotions to explore more of that kind of pleasure as well as happiness in yourself.

Physical improvements:

Sex is the best way of doing workout. Having sex strengthens your cardiovascular system, you back, leg and hip as well.
The celebrations ended with Indian folk dances and rare art display, replicating the village in Indian towns. (Photo: AP, Representative image)

Singapore: A week-long Holi celebration in which over 1,000 people participated concluded here with performances from Indian dancers on the last day.

The celebrations ended with Indian folk dances and rare art display, replicating the village in Indian towns.

"Dancers from India performed at the close of day-long village festival which displayed Indian colours as part of the the week-long Holli celebrations, some 25 of which were held by Indians living in their residential precincts and sharing

their joys with others in the multi-national Singapore," said Alka Sharma organiser and director of the Charkula Art Academy.

"Dancers from UP, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharshtra, Bengal danced to a fusion of Kathak Odissi and Bharat Natyam while students from local Indian schools and associations showed their Indian dancing skill," Sharma said.

This year's festival named 'Village Festival' was supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, India Tourism, High Commission of India in Singapore and the India Council for Cultural Relations.

"Holi and many other Indian festivals are celebrated by the local community not only recapturing the joy of days back home but also as part of educating their children in the culture and festivals in India," Sharma said.

"We had on displays Indian fashions, jewelries, home decors, artefacts, handicrafts, paintings by local Indians among the wide range of displays," she said.

About a million Indians, including the local community and professionals as the Indian expatriates, hold regular cultural events and festivals every year to share their traditions and culture with Singapore's multi-racial society.
We do agree, to the extent I know, that he is an Indian citizen and we have asked for consular access, says Manohar Parrikar. (Photo: PTI)

Quepem: The External Affairs Ministry has been asked to extend all possible help to former Navy official Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested by Pakistan claiming he was a RAW operative, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday said.

"We do agree, to the extent I know, that he is an Indian citizen and we have asked for consular access," Parrikar said, adding that he is concerned about Jadhav since he is a veteran.

Giving details, the Minister said he had "indicated" to the MEA that Jadhav is an ex-officer and should be given all assistance and support required.

Praising External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Parrikar said the MEA was doing its best.

He said that Swaraj is very active and one can even reach her at night on Twitter and get a reply with action taken reports usually given by (next) morning.

"Sushmaji has been working vigorously to help Indians abroad who are in problem. In this case, since the other country has made allegations, it may take a longer time," he said.

Parrikar refused to comment anything more on Jadhav saying, "Other than paying him One Rank One Pension I cannot talk about anything on an ex officer".

Jadhav, a 1991 commissioned Naval officer, was arrested earlier this month by Pakistan authorities on the charges that he was dealing with Balochistan freedom fighters.

The allegation was that the officer, who retired in 2013, was an active RAW agent, a charge denied by India. Government sources have said that Jadhav was a small businessman.

It is said that he often carried cargo to and from Iranian ports bordering Pakistan and has nothing to do with India's external intelligence agency.

Sources have said that there is no proof that the retired navy officer, who owns a cargo business in Iran, was arrested in Balochistan as claimed by Pakistan. Jadhav could have been arrested after he strayed into Pakistani waters and was being wrongly charged, they said.

It is a matter of investigation whether he had accidentally strayed into Pakistani waters or was lured into Pakistan, sources have said.
Bangladeshi infiltration problem is not only of Assam but of the entire country, says BJP Chief Amit Shah. (Photo: PTI)

Dhakuakona: Raking up the issue of infiltration of Bangladeshis in Assam, BJP president Amit Shah on Monday accused the ruling Congress of not stopping it and using the illegal migrants as its vote bank.

Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are coming here (to campaign for the Assam Assembly elections). I challenge the Congress president to say she will stop Bangladeshi infiltration, she wont say it Congress is using the Bangladeshi infiltrators as its vote bank," Shah told a poll rally here.

The infiltration problem would end in Assam once a BJP government is formed here, he said, adding. We will seal the Bangladesh border and no infiltrator will be able to step in here.

"Bangladeshi infiltration problem is not only of Assam but of the entire country, he said. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi where was Assam put by Congress at the time of Independence and Partition. Jawaharlal Nehru had put Assam as Category D state," Shah said contending that Mahatma Gandhi and Gopinath Bordoloi(Assams first chief minister) kept Assam within India.

During the Chinese aggression in the 1960s it was Nehrus responsibility to stand with his soldiers and the people of Assam but he addressed the nation over All India Radio saying 'good bye Assam, good bye Assam'. The Indian soldiers fought bravely and kept Assam within the Indian map, he said.
Srinagar: Former Union minister and National Conference (NC) president, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Sunday made a strong pitch for emulating the European Union (EU) model in South Asian to make it a heaven of peace, prosperity and security.

He also called for a sustained India-Pakistan dialogue to address all issues that have caused straining of relations between the neighbours.

Strongly batting for good neighbourly relations between India and other countries in the region, he said there is urgent need of carving out a situation where people can move around freely like EU.

He asked, If EU could do it, why not India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other neighbouring countries.

Abdullah in his key note address at a day-long conference held at Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu said he hopes the South Asian nations would eschew myopic tendencies and hostilities and work for an enabling environment for generations to lead a peaceful and dignified life.

How long shall the hostilities of past cast dark shadow on present and future in a fast changing global scenario, he asked, asserting the people of this continent too have a right to grow in free and fearless environment.

He said the era of mistrust and suspicion has retarded growth of sub-continent countries and this situation needed to end, the sooner the better.

Abdullah, who has served as chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir thrice, called for a sustained India-Pakistan dialogue, saying hostility between the two nations has impacted peace and tranquillity in the Himalayan state.

He said the state would be the biggest beneficiary of peace in the region as it has witnessed a horrified saga of instability and bloodshed due to border tensions and the cult of militancy.

He asserted the two nations cannot wish away each other and, therefore, New Delhi and Islamabad must seriously and purposefully get engaged to take the peace initiative forward.

He hoped that the two countries will take concrete measures to continue the dialogue process for lasting peace, saying confrontations had no place in bilateral relations.

He squarely blamed Western powers for promoting terror scourge and said the world at large has suffered due to it hugely.

Reiterating his unflinching commitment to secularism, he said this has been cornerstone of the NC policies, which hugely strengthened the bonds between the people of Jammu and Kashmirs three distant regions-the Valley, Jammu and Ladakh.

He said unity in diversity has been biggest strength of the state and cautioned people against those who wanted to disturb this time-tested ethos.

National Conference will stand like a rock against those who will even think of polluting the composite culture of Jammu and Kashmir, he pledged.

Complimenting the people of Jammu and Kashmir for keeping the flame of secularism aloft during most testing times, he said this cherished ideal alone can lead the state to peace, progress and development.

Emphasising the need for strengthening this spirit, he called for channelizing the energies of youth towards positive pursuits.

This can be achieved only when the young people are provided vistas of opportunities to excel in academics, pursue their avocations in a peaceful atmosphere and by generating avenues of jobs for them, he said.

Abdullah was speaking at a conference organised by the Bangladesh Bharat Pakistan Peace Forum (BBPPF) on the importance of peace and unity initiatives between three nations.
The students have been booked on 11 charges - pertaining to rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty, among others. (Photo: PTI)

Hyderabad: A Hyderabad Court will today hear the bail plea of 27 students, who were arrested for staging a violent protest against varsity Vice-Chancellor Appa Rao Podile.

Following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula, Rao had gone on leave and resumed office on March 23.

The students have been booked on 11 charges - pertaining to rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty, among others.

Ex union home minister Susheel Kumar Shinde and Congress MP Rajeev Satav will meet the students at the Cherlapali Jail at 11 a.m.

Following the students' protest, classes in the varsity were suspended till March 27.
Hyderabad: Classes resumed in Hyderabad Central University Monday after being suspended since March 23, amid a fresh boycott call given by Joint Action Committee for Social Justice (JAC) which is leading the protest on Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula's suicide issue.

"Classes have resumed from today.... The Vice-Chancellor has also appealed students to attend the classes," HCU registrar M Sudhakar said.

Read: Students must focus only on studies: Hyderabad varsity V-C

The JAC had yesterday called for boycott of classes "on all the campuses" in the country including HCU, even as its Vice Chancellor had appealed students to attend the classes.

Assuring the students that they would get full support from him and the teachers in attending classes, Prof Podile, said in a circular that students must focus on their studies and not get deterred by any advise or persuasion.

It read: Students should think only about their studies, classes, minor examinations and semester exams, and should not be deterred by any advice or persuasion to the contrary. You will get all possible support from me and your teachers in this regard.

"At this point in time the students and the faculty members are concerned only about completing on time the remaining classes to be held in the current semester and the internal assessment tests (or minors).

Read: In prison, Hyderabad varsity students, professors keep classes on

"I solicit everyone's cooperation in resuming the academic activities in full swing from today to ensure that the end-semester examinations are completed as per the schedule," Appa Rao said.

Meanwhile, the bail application of 25 students and two faculty members who were arrested after March 22 violence will come up for hearing today.

A group of students, who were opposing Appa Rao's return as the Vice Chancellor after a two-month leave following the row over Vemula's suicide, had allegedly vandalised the VC's official residence and pelted stones on police.

Later, the police lathi charged them and arrested the 25 students, besides the two faculty members.

Read: Global scholars for recall of University of Hyderabad V-C Appa Rao Podile

On March 23, the HCU authorities announced suspension of classes for four days from March 23 to 26 in view of the situation prevailing on the campus.

The protesting students had demanded that the VC be arrested immediately as he was one of the accused in the case of Vemula's alleged suicide on January 17.

The JAC has demanded dropping of all charges against students, faculty members at HCU and elsewhere in the country and immediate removal and arrest of Appa Rao.

Read: Rohiths suicide issue raised during UN rights meet

Its other demands include "demilitarisation of the campus, action against police for the unnecessary and targeted violence, false detention, misinformation about the detained people and physical and sexual assault on women students and faculty, and introduction of Rohith Act," according to JAC's press release.

Meanwhile, the HCU has constituted a seven-member committee to hold dialogue with the agitating students to restore normalcy on the campus.

The panel would discuss with student representatives the matters that are negotiable from the list of demands submitted by them to the university, an HCU release said here.

The committee would ask the JAC and the students' union to nominate two members each before starting the dialogue to break the existing impasse.

The committee, chaired by Prof B Kamaiah, Dean, School of Economics, and comprising six other members from different departments of HCU, shall submit its report within six weeks.
Hyderabad: The Vice Chancellor of Hyderabad Central University (HCU) Appa Rao Podile on Monday appealed students protesting against his resumption of duty to work towards a resolution and rise above 'anger and confrontational attitude'.

Lets work towards resolution, instead of confrontation. Lets together build bridges than walls in this university. I request you to rise above anger and confrontational attitude as students of higher education in this university, Podile said soon after a Hyderabad court granted bail to students who were arrested for vandalising his office.

Read: HCU row: Court grants bail to arrested students, faculty members

Following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula in January, Podile had gone on leave as students accused him of abetment to suicide. He resumed office on March 23.

Furious over Podile's resumption of duty, students broke into his office earlier this month, vandalised and ransacked the premises after they staged a protest demanding his resignation. The accused students and two faculty members were arrested and taken into judicial custody.

Read: Students must focus only on studies: Hyderabad varsity V-C

Speaking on the incident and the continued protests in the varsity, Podile said, Recent incidents in campus are painful not just for administration but also students on campus & university alumni across world.

He said his team was open for a dialogue with students and asked them to look for a peaceful resolution in the matter.

Read: HCU limps back to normalcy as classes resume despite boycott

On March 23, the HCU authorities announced suspension of classes for four days from March 23 to 26 in view of the situation prevailing on the campus.

Classes however resumed in HCU on Monday amid a fresh boycott call given by Joint Action Committee for Social Justice (JAC), which is leading the protest on Rohith Vemula's suicide issue.

Read: Congress to meet President tomorrow on HCU issue: Sushil Shinde

Assuring the students that they would get full support from him and the teachers in attending classes, Podile said in a circular that students must focus on their studies and not get deterred by any advise or persuasion.
Carrying placards and raising slogans, the students demanded the removal of Rao and HRD Minister Smriti Irani from their respective posts as well as the enactment of 'Rohith Act' against caste discrimination in educational institutions. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: A delegation of JNU students on Monday met officials at NHRC over the alleged crackdown and arrest of students in Hyderadabad Central University and demanded concrete action against its VC Appa Rao in connection with the Rohith Vemula issue.

27 people including 25 students and two faculty members of the varsity were arrested on March 23 in connection with the recent violence on the campus. However, they were today granted bail by a local court.

The delegation which met National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Registrar CK Chaturvedi submitted a compilation of testimonials of HCU students regarding the "inhuman treatment" meted out to them on March 22 and demanded that Rao be removed from the post of VC.

"We compiled the testimonials of HCU students who were on the receiving end of the crackdown, in a CD, and submitted it to the NHRC. We have especially pointed out the case of a student Uday Bhanu who was physically assaulted. That is the case of human rights violation," JNUSU Vice President Shehla Rashid Shora said.

"We hope NHRC takes this case seriously and does something something concrete about it," she added.

Many students from different universities including JNU, DU and Jamia Milia Islamia had gathered in front of NHRC building to express solidarity with the students of HCU.

Carrying placards and raising slogans, the students demanded the removal of Rao and HRD Minister Smriti Irani from their respective posts as well as the enactment of 'Rohith Act' against caste discrimination in educational institutions.

Celebrations broke out among the protestors as the news about the release of HCU students on bail broke out and the students hailed the release as "the victory of our struggle".

The NHRC had, on March 25, issued notices to the top Union HRD and Telangana government officials over action against the students and is now awaiting for their reports.

Chaturvedi reportedly assured the delegation of "proper action" once the report from Andhra Pradesh Human Rights Commission is received.

"The Commission did not know about the magnitude of assault on the students in HCU. We had to inform them. They have promised to inform us once they get the report from the APHRC," said Rama, a member of JNUSU and the delegation.
More than 70 people, mainly women and children, were killed and nearly 300 others were injured in the terror attack. (Photo: AP)

Srinagar: Kashmiri separatists and mainstream political leaders and parties were, for a change, on the same page in condemning Sunday nights suicide blast in Pakistani city of Lahore in which more than 70 people, mainly women and children, were killed and nearly 300 others were injured.

Former Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, and his father and National Conference (NC) president, Farooq Abdullah, in their statements issued here on Monday termed the incident as dastardly and heart rending. Expressing their solidarity with the bereaved families, the Senior Abdullah said, This is another senseless act of barbarism that underlines the need to unite against the common enemies of peace and humanity. My heart goes out to the affected people and I pray the situation improves and incidents like these are never repeated.

Omar Abdullah who is also NCs working president said, The loss of innocent lives in Lahore is a reminder of the challenges faced by innocent people across the world in fighting against barbarism and violence. I pray for those who have been affected and express my heartfelt solidarity with them.

Chief Minister-designate and PDP president, Mehbooba Mufti, said, This despicable act is utterly contemptible and highly condemnable. Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, she said, My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends. She asserted, Such senseless acts of violence underline the need for uniting against the enemies of peace and humanity. The perpetrators of this attack cannot be termed as humans and they can never be part of civilized world.

Strongly condemning the terror attack at Gulshan Iqbal Park, Lahore, Kashmirs chief Muslim cleric and chairman of his faction of separatist Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, said Terrorism in any form and at any place is condemnable. Stressing that there is no place for such inhuman practice of terror in Islam, the Mirwaiz said that at a time when common masses in most parts of the world do get killed in the similar mindless acts of terrorism, and the way terrorism is fast becoming the biggest challenge for the humanity, the international community needs to take united stand against terrorism and make combined efforts to curb this menace. He expressed solidarity with the government and the people of Pakistan at this hour of national grief.

Another senior separatist leader Shabir Ahmed Shah in a statement from a detention centre here termed the attack as extreme of brutality and barbarism, which is strongly condemnable. He said, The people of Jammu and Kashmir express their condolence and sympathy with the families of the victims adding, Who better than Kashmiris can understand the plight of the affected families?

He also said that the act committed in Lahore is a crime and challenge to humanity the perpetrators can in no way be called as humans. Such acts are unacceptable. He asked Islamabad to rise to eradicate terrorism that has plagued the country and teach a befitting lesson to the enemies

Former JKLF militant commander Javed Ahmed Mir said, We stand united with the people and the Government of Pakistan in their resolve to fight the menace of terrorism and condemn use of violence under any circumstance". He added the atrocity of such proportion should outrage the feelings of every human being.

Pro-independence JKLF activists led by its vice president Bashir Ahmed Butt marched along the streets of summer capital Srinagar to show solidarity with the families of the victims. Many Kashmiris took to the social networking sites on Monday to express their anger over the Lahore terror attack and voice concern on the rise of terrorism in the neighbourhood.

Meanwhile in a statement mailed to this newspaper, Amritsar-based Dal Khalsa denounced the deadly terror attack in Lahore and said. The people of East Punjab fully share the sentiment and pain of their neighbour and want to reiterate that they stand with the people and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour. The statement quoted Dal Khalsa head Harchranjit Singh Dhami as saying, We are perturbed over the mindless killings of innocent men, women and children in Lahore. Our heart goes out to the victims and their families.

He hoped that the Pakistan government and its security establishment will bring the masterminds of Lahore attack to justice at the earliest. "The hidden forces, which are encouraging and engineering such terror acts targeting innocents especially children of Pakistan must be identified, exposed and punished. We feel the scourge of terrorism was damaging the Pakistan heavily.
A bench of Chief Justice T.S. Thakur and Justice Uday Lalit was hearing a batch of applications, a suo motu petition and a writ petition challenging triple talak and polygamy being practiced by Muslims. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: With All India Muslim Personal Law Board strongly opposing court intervention on marriage and divorce, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre to produce the report of a high power committee on women and law set up during the UPA regime.

The Report titled Women and the law: An assessment of family laws with focus on laws relating to marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance and succession was submitted last year to the Ministry of Women and Child Development.

A bench of Chief Justice T.S. Thakur and Justice Uday Lalit was hearing a batch of applications, a suo motu petition and a writ petition challenging triple talak and polygamy being practiced by Muslims.

During the resumed hearing senior counsel Amit Singh Chadda and counsel Balaji Srinivasan, appearing for petitioner Shayara Banu brought to the notice of the court that the Centre had appointed a committee in this regard and the report was not released.

Quoting media reports, counsel said the report has recommended a ban on various practices that are purportedly Islamic but require reform, including the practice of talaq-e-bidat and polygamy.

The bench also sought the response of Muslim organizations, National Commission for Women and Centre on impleadment and intervention applications within six weeks.

The court asked Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to respond to the suo motu petition by a two judge bench of the court on October 16, 2015 and answer to the question if gender discrimination suffered by Muslim women should not be considered a violation of the Fundamental Rights under Articles 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution and international covenants.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board in its Application said the issue of Muslim Personal Law is cultural issue, and it is inextricably interwoven with Islam. It has argued that it is the issue of freedom of conscience, guaranteed under Articles 25 and 26 read with Article 29 of the Constitution. The AIMPLB has contended that the questions being examined by the Supreme Court in the present case has already been dealt with by the Court in Ahmedabad Women Action Group v Union of India.

In this case, the Supreme Court held that these were matters wholly involving issues of state policies, with which the Court has no concern, and therefore, to be dealt with by the legislature.

The AIMPLB has also submitted that the Constitution does not touch upon the personal laws of the parties, and therefore, the Supreme Court cannot examine the question of constitutional validity of the practices of marriage, divorce and maintenance in Muslim personal law.

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.

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.
Lucknow: Amid a raging row over chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai', RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday said nobody needs to be forced to raise the slogan and that efforts should be made to build a great India that is hailed across the globe voluntarily.

The RSS boss had stirred a controversy recently with his remark that the younger generation needed to be taught to hail "Mother India".

In apparent retaliation, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi had said he would not chant 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' as he was not obliged to do it under the Constitution and that he would not do so even if a "knife is put to my throat".

The issue snowballed into a political slugfest with the Shiv Sena, BJP and other parties slamming the Hyderabad MP over his stand. Maharashtra Assembly suspended an AIMIM MLA after he refused to chant the slogan, while the Madhya Pradesh Assembly passed a censure motion condemning Owaisi.

Playing down the controversies surrounding his suggestion, Bhagwat said, "We have to create such a great India where people themselves chant 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'.

Bhagwat's remark at a Bhartiya Kishan Sangh event came days after BJP patriarch L K Advani termed the controversy over the slogan "meaningless".

The RSS chief said, "We (India) have to show the way to the people of the world with our life and deeds. We do not want to win or defeat anyone. We don't want to impose our ideology and thoughts on anyone. We wish to show them the path because we accept them as our own.

"We have to show the path to the world through our deeds and create such an India that there is 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' across the world...We don't want to force anyone...it is not to be imposed," he said.

Bhagwat was speaking after inaugurating the renovated building of the BKS.

He said the Sangh was striving to raise more and more people who were committed to the cause of creating a great India.

Whether it is farmers or people engaged in other occupations for livelihood, everyone contributes something to society, he said.

"Earning maximum wealth with minimum effort can be considered to be a special ability, but it should not be a motto. Our motto should be that we will work more than we take from the society. We should give more to the society," Bhagwat said.

Terming 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) as the philosphy and core of Indian culture, he said, "We have to present an example before the entire world."

Amid the escalating row, senior BJP leader LK Advani had said in Gandhinagar, "I don't want to comment on it. This is a meaningless controversy ('yeh ek vyarth vivad hai')".
Islamabad: Pakistan reportedly appears to be reluctant to give India consular access to the alleged Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) agent who was arrested last week in Balochistan while training separatists for terrorist attacks.

It maybe recalled that the Indian Government had confirmed Kulbhushan Yadav as a retired former officer of the Indian Navy officer and had sought consular access to him.

Read: Ex-Naval officer arrested in Pak not RAW agent, says India

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had reportedly consulted the Foreign Office, the interior and defence ministries on India's request, and they recommended against granting New Delhi consular access to Yadav, citing 'inappropriate timing', reports The Express Tribune.

Pakistan ministry said that granting India access to Yadav would open a pandora's box and probably weaken Pakistan's case against New Delhi.

Islamabad will instead approach major world powers, especially the United States, to substantiate its claim that India was stoking terrorism in Pakistan.

DC comment: Indians arrest is a Pak Army ploy

Sharif will leave this week for a tour of the US, where he would attend the Nuclear Security Summit and meet India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines.

In the meantime, the Prime Minister directed the two ministries to register a case against Yadav and collect evidence against him.

Read: Thirteen more Indian spies held in Pakistan

Kulbhushan Yadav was arrested in a raid near the border town of Chaman last Thursday.

He was earlier posted at Chabahar port in southeastern Iran where he lived with his wife and two children.
New Delhi: The Congress Party on Monday questioned the inclusion of an ISI officer in the Pakistan Joint Investigation Team (JIT) that is visiting India to probe the January 2016 terrorist attack on the Pathankot Air Force Base.

"Pakistan has not provided a letter rogatory for the visit of the JIT team, without it there is no guarantee of prosecution. One is forced to wonder what the investigation all about is. Why is an officer of the infamous ISI of Pakistan a part of the JIT? The role of the dreaded terrorist organisation -Jaish-e-Mohammad, its chief Maulana Masood Azhar, his brother Abdul Rauf, who was one of the handlers of Pathankot terror attack is well-known and widely accepted. Despite this, Pakistan Government till today has taken no action either against Jaish-e-Mohammad in terms of banning it or in terms of arresting Maulana Masood Azhar or his brother or the other handler Kashif Jaan," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told the media.

"Unfettered access being provided to them (Pakistan JIT) and also red carpet welcome accorded by the Indian government. It raises serious question with regard to judicial propriety and genuine apprehensions vis-a-vis compromising on national security. Serious questions are also being raised about Modi government's U-turn in terms of segregation of state and non-state actors in Pakistan, who are indulging in rampant and senseless export of terror into India on an everyday basis, causing serious and irreparable loss of civilian and military lives," he added.

Surjewala further stated that the BJP Government must need to evaluate and reflect upon and answer some of the genuine apprehensions in mind of national security experts, as also, people of the country.

"Prima facie it appears to be a case of an accused investigating himself. Secondly, by allowing a Pakistani investigation team to visit and investigate. BJP Government has for the first time distinguished and therefore recognized that Pakistani establishment does not have a role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in context to Pathankot terror attack," he said.

Currently, the meeting between the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials and a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan is currently underway at the NIA headquarter. The team would visit Pathankot on March 29.

According to sources, the JIT comprises of Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) AIG Rai Tahir as convener, Intelligence Bureau Lahore Deputy Director General Azim Arshad, Lt. Col Tanvir Ahmed of the ISI, Lt, Col Irfan Mirza of MI and Gujranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.
Though land owners and farmers are opposing the move, as their profits would get affected under a land price control regime, the realtors are welcoming it.

Hyderabad: The AP Capital Regional Development Authority is working on policies to prevent speculation in real estate prices and disposal of land in the Amaravati capital city area.

The policies will be similar to those adopted in countries like Singapore and South Korea, according to sources.

As land rates in the capital city area have increased beyond the reach of industry and buyers of residential accommodation, the anti-speculation rules are aimed at stablising the prices.

Sources in the APCRDA said a decision was taken in the first meeting in November last, to frame policies on land pricing and prevention of speculation in Amaravati capital city. This is still in the process and is yet to be finalised. These rules are to rein in excessive land prices and create sustainable real estate market, the sources said.

Though land owners and farmers are opposing the move, as their profits would get affected under a land price control regime, the realtors are welcoming it. Asked about the proposal, CEDAI AP president S. Siva Reddy said that in view of land not being available at lower prices for industry and also for residential accommodation, the anti-speculation rules are to be welcomed.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Centre to file before it the report of a committee which was constituted earlier to look into the aspects of personal laws relating to marriage, divorce and custody prevalent in various religious minorities, including Muslims.



A bench comprising Chief justice T S Thakur and Justice U U Lalit asked Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, to submit the report within six weeks in the court.



The bench also asked the Ministry of Minority Affairs to file its response to the petition filed by one Shayara Bano challenging the constitutionality of Muslim practices of polygamy, triple talaq (talaq-e-bidat) and nikah halala.



Talaq-e bidat is a Muslim man divorcing his wife by pronouncing more than one talaq in a single tuhr (the period between two menstruations), or in a tuhr after coitus, or pronouncing an irrevocable instantaneous divorce at one go (unilateral triple-talaq).



Meanwhile, the bench directed the apex court registry to make available within six weeks the copy of judicial records of a petition on the issue, which was taken note of as a separate petition by it.



The Supreme Court had earlier this month sought response of the Centre on Bano's plea challenging constitutionality of Section 2 of the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937 in so far as it seeks to recognise and validate polygamy, triple talaq and nikah halala, and had tagged the matter with a similar suo motu petition.

Bano has said she was subjected to cruelty and dowry demands from her husband and in-laws and was administered drugs that "that caused her memory to fade, kept her unconscious" and made her "critically ill" at which point her husband divorced her by triple talaq.

The petitioner has also challenged the Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939, saying that it fails to provide Indian Muslim women with protection from bigamy.

Bano has stated in her petition that the issue of gender discrimination against Muslim women under Muslim personal laws, specifically the lack of safeguards against arbitrary divorce and second marriage by a Muslim husband during currency of first marriage notwithstanding the guarantees of the Constitution, needs to be examined by the Supreme Court.

"Muslim women have their hands tied while the guillotine of divorce dangles, perpetually ready to drop at the whims of their husbands who enjoy undisputed power. Such discrimination and inequality hoarsely expressed in the form of unilateral triple-talaq is abominable when seen in light of progressive times of the 21st century.

"Further, once a woman has been divorced, her husband is not permitted take her back as his wife even if he had pronounced talaq under influence of any intoxicant, unless the woman undergoes nikah halala which involves her marriage with another man who subsequently divorces her so that her previous husband can re-marry her," her plea has said.
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) had earlier approached the apex court to cancel Nasreen's visa for violating several laws like the Foreigners Act. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen's visa for allegedly violating certain provisions of the Foreigners Act.

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) had earlier approached the apex court to cancel Nasreen's visa for violating several laws like the Foreigners Act, 1946 and Foreign Orders, 1948, after the Delhi High Court rejected this plea in September 2015.

Nasreen's visa was in August last year extended for a year by the Union Home Ministry, thereby permitting her to stay in India till August 2016.

The decision was reportedly taken following an intervention of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh as Taslima had requested the government to further extend her visa.

Nasreen had left Bangladesh in 1992 due to death threats from Islamic fundamentalists who alleged that her work, especially 'Lajja' meant to insult their religion. She has been living in exile since 1994.
New Delhi: Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday dismissed Congress criticism as "devil quoting scriptures" over the Modi governments imposition of President's Rule in Uttarkhand, contending that Congress and its supporters had dismissed 91 non-Congress governments.

"Congress and its supporters dismissed 91 non-Congress governments, and are now crying foul. It's like devils quoting scriptures. When you do it, you are a saviour of democracy and when we do it out of constitutional necessity, we are murderers of democracy," Naidu said in a statement.

Read: Uttarakhand crisis: Congress moves High Court against President's Rule

Citing figures, Naidu said President's Rule was imposed "50 times during Indira Gandhi's regime, 11 times during P V Narsimha Rao's regime, 10 times during Manmohan Singh's regime and seven times during Jawaharlal Nehru's regime".

Naidu, a former BJP President, also contrasted these "facts" with the imposition of President's Rule six times under BJP's Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi.

Read: Murder of democracy, Modi's hands dipped in 'blood': Harish Rawat

At a time when the NDA government is facing combined Opposition attack on the Uttarkhand issue with parties including those from the Left calling the Centre's decision to bring the hill state under President's Rule "murder of democracy", Naidu reminded Congress that "you dismissed the first Communist government formed by EMS Namboodiripad in 1959 in Kerala".

Naidu claimed that it was only because of the internal fights of Congress party that states like Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand had be to brought under President's Rule.

Read: BJP exploring all options in UttaraKhand: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

Listing the reasons for the government action in Uttarakhand, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister said that finance bill was "defeated" in the Assembly and yet shown as passed and there was "horse-trading on camera" and "complete breakdown of Constitution".

"Speaker disqualifies MLAs one day before voting. Their Chief Minister is caught on camera offering allurements to win over MLAs. The forensic lab confirms the authenticity of the video. You disqualify MLAs before voting and now you are crying foul," Naidu said.

The Union Minister said Uttarakhand Assembly is only in suspended animation now and not dissolved and asserted that people will disqualify Congress as and when elections are held.
Govt said there were no valid licences for making any of the banned FDCs and added it was difficult to implement any action at state level. (Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: Delhi High Court on Monday said the government's decision to ban around 344 fixed dose combinations (FDCs) was apparently taken as it could not take action those companies making such medicines with licences from state authorities.

"It appears that since you do not have power to control your state licensing authorities, you are taking this action. It all boils down to this that you have exercised this power as you do not have power to take action against those operating without valid license from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). That is what I feel," Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw said adding there was a "lacunae" in the system if state authorities were not under control of DCGI.

The observation came after the court heard arguments of Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain, appearing for the Centre, who said there were no valid licences for making any of the banned FDCs and added it was difficult to implement any action at state level.

However, the ASG also said the lack of approval for these FDCs were a secondary issue and the primary focus was that it "lacked safety and efficacy" and thus, "ban was the only answer".

Opposing the arguments of the government, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Pfizer, said no reason was given for banning the FDCs other than saying that these combinations were not rational and lacked therapeutic justification. He also wondered whom the government was promoting and, in a lighter vein, remarked "Patanjali is becoming more famous nowadays".

When the government was saying these combinations in current quantities are not safe, then it should have said what combinations in what quantity were safe, Sibal said.

The ASG, seeking lifting of the stay on the ban, said thousands of FDCs were under scanner but only 344 were banned as "there was no therapeutic justification for them".

He said that in India "general tendency of medical practitioners is to take the easy route. So they prescribe what is already available in a fixed dose."

To this, the court said, This cannot be an argument. Then why not say they were prohibited from manufacturing" and added that if someone was manufacturing without approval then action has to be taken against them.

"What you have done is you have banned FDCs whether approval exists or not," it added.
Chandigarh: The Haryana Cabinet on Monday approved the draft of a Bill proposing to provide quotas in government jobs and education to Jats. The draft Bill on quotas for Jats and four other castes was cleared at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

The Jats had set a deadline of April 3 for their demands to be met. In February they had held violent protests for nine days demanding reservations, in which at least 30 people had lost their lives and property worth hundreds of crores of rupees was destroyed.

The Bill is likely to be tabled in the Budget Session of the Assembly that will end on Thursday. Besides Jats, it will provide for quotas for Jat Sikhs, Rors, Bishnois and Tyagis.

A new classification in the category of backward classes is learnt to have been created for this purpose.

The states BJP government had promised reservations for Jats and the others after the recent agitation. Mr Khattar had also made it clear the existing 27 per cent reservations for Other Backward Classes would not be disturbed.

A five-member committee under the chairmanship of the chief secretary was formed earlier this month to prepare a draft of the bill to provide for quotas under the ambit of the Constitution.

We want that whatever Bill is tabled should be legally tenable, All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti President Yashpal Malik had said earlier.
The public prosecutor assured that the law and order situation in the university campus was under control.

Hyderabad: The Miyapur court on Monday granted bail to the 24 students, two faculty members and a documentary filmmaker who had been arrested on March 22 in connection with the violence in the University of Hyderabad.

The public prosecutor, who did not oppose the bail, assured that the law and order situation in the university campus was under control.

The XXV Metropolitan Magistrates court, which had earlier postponed the bail plea, on Monday allowed bail on sureties of Rs 5,000 each and on condition that they present themselves before the Gachibowli police station house officer every Saturday till the chargesheet was filed or for 60 days.

All allegations are vague, says defence

The Miyapur court on Monday granted bail to the 24 students, two faculty members and a documentary filmmaker who were arrested from the UoH, after hearing from the defence counsel who pleaded with the court contending that the allegations against the accused were absolutely vague and there was no material to keep them detained any further.

A legal team comprising human rights lawyers from Anweshi and AP Civil Liberties Committee and lawyers from the legal cell of TS Congress were present to support the students. The public prosecutor said that they did not want to oppose the bail plea.

We have not filed a counter considering the fact that they are students. We have left it to the court to decide the case on its merit. Police had arrested them to control the situation in the campus. The police has no personal grudge against them, the prosecutor said.
Mangaluru: For those who feel travelling between Mangaluru and Bengaluru via Shiradi Ghat is tiresome, the assurance made by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari that work on the tunnel through the ghat will start by this year-end, has come as a welcome piece of news.

The tunnel project through Shiradi Ghat will decrease the distance and also time. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being prepared by the state government. If the DPR is submitted to us by June, I assure you that work will start by November and we will try to complete the work in two years, Mr Gadkari declared. He was in Mangaluru on Tuesday to attend the foundation laying ceremony for widening of 141 km of NH 75 with an investment of Rs 2358 crore. Once this project is completed, the port connectivity between Mangaluru and Chennai would be easy, he said.

The project will have six tunnels, the longest will be 2.5 kms. There will be seven bridges, the longest of which would be 1.5 km. If the existing length of the ghat is 26 kms, the length of tunnels would be 18.5 kms.

Mr Gadkari gave in principle approval for the upgradation of three interior roads in Dakshina Kannada district based on the request by MP Nalin Kumar Kateel during the programme on Monday. These are Karkala-Mudabidri-BC Road, BC-Road-Kateel-Mulky and Thokkotu-Konaje-Melkar roads.

The total length of these three roads would be 123 kms and the estimated cost of development is Rs 755 crore. I declare that these roads will be upgraded. You can collect the papers related to this during your visit to Delhi, Mr Gadkari told the MP.
Hyderabad: The TS government has decided to gift MLAs and MLCs iPods and iPhones on Tuesday when both Houses adopt the Appropriation Bill.

Finance minister Etela Rajender will also be organising a big dinner for the legislators on Tuesday night. Earlier, too, in united AP, governments would lavish gifts on legislators.

The 120 MLAs and 40 MLCs (including ministers) will receive gift coupons from the finance ministry that are exchangeable for iPods and iPhones. A special budgetary allocation of around Rs 1.5 crore has been sanctioned by the finance ministry for this.

However sources said no such gifts were given last year. Meanwhile, legislative affairs minister T. Harish Rao hosted a dinner meeting at Grand Kakatiya Hotel on Monday night to appraise legislators on the second phase of Mission Kakatiya works.
In the 11 years of Deccan Chronicle in Chennai there was never probably one like the last. The year 2015 was unique in the sense it tested the city the most.

Chennai: In the 11 years of Deccan Chronicle in Chennai there was never probably one like the last. The year 2015 was unique in the sense it tested the city the most. The natural calamity that hit the metropolis before the year ran out swamped the city but didnt kill its spirit. What doesnt kill us makes us stronger is a belief that has served the human race well.

The spirit that drove Chennai to emerge from the deluge not unscathed but the wiser for it was what made it stand out. The Deccan Chronicle is proud it stood by the city in those stressful times and did what all Chennaiites did  defy the odds to prove that mans resilience helps take on the biggest challenges.

As the flood waters swamped the city, normal life for lakhs of people in Chennai was torn apart. How the city recovered from it all was a story of collective courage, beginning with the humblest of people right up to the high and mighty who were also not spared by the swirling waters. Newspapers had a particularly difficult time in handling the daily logistics of an essential industry that must deliver without fail in each 24-hour cycle.

While the city went without newspapers for a couple of days at the peak of the December 1-2 rain and floods, distribution was hazardous even after the presses were up and running in the face of great odds, more so as newspapers were still not reaching areas cut off by the water.

The Deccan Chronicle was hit by power shutdown and fibre optics internet connectivity due to flooding. The reporters met the challenge by keeping themselves wired to events despite all the problems with mobile connectivity and the news desk was run form my home for five days. It was a scene straight

out of tech start-ups with 20 people cramming into an apartment, which was

the only possible working place since the Airtel internet connectivity through telephone cable was on without interruption and the TNEB were helpful in ensuring continuous power. The logistics of reaching milk for tea and coffee, probably the most essential newsroom feedstock, besides food and water

were splendidly handled by the management team.

An engineer would rush to office on his bike close to midnight with the pages in a flash drive and the power would be cranked up with gensets to get

the presses running. Since TNEB power could not be restored in the printing press because of flooding in the power room, Deccan Chronicle had to procure diesel and get it across the flooded Adyar and find novel ways to get the newspapers across to the vans for distribution. The operations were a minor miracle and had to be undertaken in order to reach our dear readers with all that

was happening in a chaos-ridden city just limping back to normalcy as the waters slowly receded.

The experience brought the crew of the newsrooms together much more.

There is nothing like a crisis to make us more empathetic even as Deccan Chronicle strove to keep bringing out the newspaper for close to a week be

fore normalcy was restored. The story of the city striving to cope was even greater. The volunteers who manned the roads to warn motorists of

hazards and those who sat and packed the food for hours on end to get the packets moving to the worst affected were the new heroes. Their selflessness in difficult times was

touching.

In 11 years we have seen the city change in many ways and Deccan Chronicle also contributed to dynamic change by being a lively catalyst.

Today we salute our readers for not only making our journey so

fulfilling but also for the bravery with which they have faced one of the worst crises to grip Chennai in 11 years, making the tsunami of 2004 and the rain of 2005 seem like second grade disasters. As we move on into what should be another eventful year in which Assembly elections are to be held in the

state, Deccan Chronicle would like to reiterate its commitment to good

journalism.
Chennai: It is not just the DMK and Captain's wife who are blasting guns at AIADMK 'Amma' accusing her of various flaws and faults. The latest to join the anti-Jayalalithaa cavalry is the BJP with its Union ministers Pon Radhakrishnan and Piyush Goyal alleging that the Tamil Nadu chief minister is just not available to even discuss vital infra projects for the state. This is a significant development coming close on the heels of reports that the AIADMK might have poll alliance with the saffron party; now that seems to be near impossible.

Speaking to reporters at Nagercoil on Sunday, Radhakrishnan claimed that he had tried many times to meet CM Jayalalithaa to discuss the development works in the state but he could not. "I tried many times but I could not meet her", he said.

Actually, Radhakrishnan had met O Panneerselvam in July last year to discuss the Colachel port project, the elevated corridor around Chennai and decongestion of the Chennai port. The two had exchanged promises of close coordination to ensure that the projects would soon materialise. But things stopped just there, the Union minister said.

His colleague Piyush Goyal, who heads the power ministry at the Centre, said he had made several attempts to contact leaders in the state government but failed. "I have access to 28 states in the country but for the 29th state, when I want to talk to someone, I cannot". "I called the state electricity minister (Natham Viswanathan) who promised to get back after discussing with 'Amma'. Nothing happened after that", Goyal said, while addressing the CII Young India Meet at Delhi on Saturday.

Until now, none in the BJP has criticised the AIADMK leadership or the state government on any issue; state BJP president Dr Tamilisai Sounderarajan was an exception as she lost no opportunity to slam the AIADMK government on one issue or the other. That being the case, the serious accusations now leveled by the Union ministers could embarrass the state government and derail any alliance attempts, if they were on.
Lucknow: The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday attacked BJP and Samajwadi Party, terming them as 'two sides of the same coin' and alleged while RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has been given liberty to hold meetings here, a ban was 'imposed' on him.

The Hyderabad MP said his party considered SP and BJP as its main rival in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Our fight is against both SP and BJP. These parties are two sides of the same coin, he said.

On administration in the state capital imposing a ban on his rally, Owaisi said RSS chief Bhagwat has got the freedom, but ban is being imposed on us because in reality, the SP government is afraid of us.

Owaisi was scheduled to visit Lucknow along with Faizabad, Azamgarh and Ambedkarnagar earlier this month. He was also scheduled to address a rally in Lucknow but was refused permission by the administration citing law and order issues.

After that, Owaisis entire Uttar Pradesh tour was cancelled. Owaisi, who faced criticism for his remarks on chanting of Bharat Mata ki Jai, said he does not need a certificate of patriotism from anyone. He said Muslims have made big sacrifices for the country and their patriotism could not be questioned just for the sake of a slogan.

'Jai Meem, Jai Bheem' is AIMIM slogan in Uttar Pradesh during Assembly polls

Asaduddin Owaisi, on Monday, said that his party will go to next Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls with the slogan of Jai Meem, Jai Bheem.

Mr Owaisi, who has been working towards a Dalit-Muslim combination for his party, said, The Samajwadi Party has betrayed Muslims. The party had promised reservation for Muslims but nothing has been done in this regard, he said.

The AIMIM president alleged that SP dispensation in Uttar Pradesh has failed on all fronts and accused it of deliberately keeping Muslims backward.

Mr Owaisi was on a day-long visit to Lucknow on Monday.

He also questioned the Akhilesh governments stand on the Muzaffarnagar riots and said that more than 50,000 people had been displaced but only two persons were said to be responsible for this.

Mr Owaisi also met the chairman of All India Muslim Personal Law Board Maulana Rabe Hasan Nadvi in Lucknow and the meeting between the two leaders lasted for about 20 minutes.

Later, the AIMIM leader also interacted with students at the Islamic seminary. Earlier, Mr Owaisi visited the Deva Sharif Dargah in Barabanki district and offered prayers.
The Prime Ministers direct intervention may be needed to save the plunging reputation of the UoH with Prof. Appa Rao Podile as vice-chancellor. The Telanganas CM has promised to take up the vice-chancellorship issue with Mr Narendra Modi: the matter is urgent as the institutions credibility is at stake.

A leading sociology professor from Edinburgh University has warned about the universitys high-handedness in handling students and the possibility of top scholars like him reconsidering research ties with the university. This goes to the very crux of the problem, that of students oppression, which led to various issues emerging in the wake of scholar Rohith Vemulas suicide.

Use of force on students in any bid to direct their politics or get into arguments over political affiliations will sound the death knell of the open atmosphere campuses must have if faculty-student interactions are to prove a healthy germinating ground for ideas. It is a moot point whether students or outsiders should have a say in who should head the university as vice-chancellor.

But in Prof. Appa Raos case it does appear that he has taken campus affairs beyond the point of no return. If theres even the slightest chance that the campus will return to near normal if he is removed, it would be worth the sacrifice and Rohiths life wouldnt have been in vain.
It would be an error for us in India to regard the recent terrorist attacks in Brussels (and in Paris last November), and the discovery of a bomb-making factory in the heart of Brussels city, as disturbing events that concern just the Western world, or just Europe. Well-organised and well-coordinated attacks by terrorists who are prepared to die (through methods like suicide bombing) may be difficult to deter, but in the European case the job of the attackers is made easier by the fact that the European Union is not a security union.

While goods, services and people cross state boundaries freely within EU, not so the output of the intelligence and security apparatuses of the 28 individual EU countries. Institutional structures to support such cooperation are absent. India, a subcontinental economy and polity, too lacks such supportive mechanisms.

Terrorists cross state boundaries with ease after committing a crime.

There is no real-time system of information which can reach all states. The creation of a national counter-terrorism centre (NCTC) was foiled during the UPAs tenure through sheer cussedness of political opponents who thought a federally-guided institution would eat into a states constitutional prerogatives. This was a conceptual problem, in part, as the political class failed to appreciate that modern-day terrorism is far from a law and order matter.

There are other lessons too. Belgium in particular has been scaling back on budgetary spending on police, intelligence and internal security, and lacked the capacity to deal with terrorism (unlike some of the richer European nations like France, Germany and UK). It did not learn even from the Paris attacks although those involved had strong links with Brussels.

India too is crying out for police reforms for decades, and for equipping and training the beat constable and the police station, which will be the first line of defence at the level of intelligence work as well as response in a crisis situation. Budget constraint is just one of the reasons. Jurisdictional friction between security services of the state and the Centre also need to be fixed by amending the laws.

The saving grace for us is the broadly syncretic culture of the Indian subcontinent which has developed over the centuries, and people of different religious, language and ethnic groups have learnt to live in a cooperative fashion, although there are occasional explosions. The Europeans have been too immersed in their individualism, and religion or language-driven nationalism, to offer cultural support to waves of chiefly poor Muslim immigrants from Africa and Asia, who generally end up living in poverty and alienation.
Last week, on Tuesday, March 22, two iconic edifices  the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Capital Gate in Abu Dhabi  located 5,000 km apart, draped themselves in Belgiums national colours to mourn together the wanton killing of 31 people earlier that day in Brussels. Early investigations have revealed that this latest atrocity was the handiwork of two Brussels-based brothers of Arab origin, Ibrahim and Khalid El Bakraoui, who carried out suicide attacks at the airport and a metro station, with another partner who died in the airport attack, and a fourth accomplice who escaped from the airport.

In a statement released through one of its media outlets, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has claimed responsibility for these attacks, blaming Belgium for participating in the international coalition against the Islamic State.

The tentacles of the ISIS have now reached out of its capital, Raqqa, in Syria, and have wreaked murder and mayhem in the capital of the European Union and the headquarters of Nato (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation): jihad, spawned in West Asia, has struck at the military and cultural heart of the West.

After an extensive manhunt in several European countries, a number of possible associates of the main perpetrators have joined Salah Abdeslam (the last surviving terrorist involved in the Paris attacks of November 2015) in police custody, even as attacks on the ISIS bases in Syria have been intensified. A little before the Brussels attacks, the Belgian foreign minister had warned that in his four months in Brussels after escaping from Paris, Abdeslam had built up a new terrorist network in Brussels and had possibly linked his jihadi group with existing criminal networks as well.

The latest attacks have focused attention on Belgium as the incubator of jihad. There has been some unwelcome scrutiny of Belgian politics, with its deep divide between its French and Dutch-speaking populations that, observers believe, has weakened national institutions, including the security services. A local mayor has referred to the countrys security set-up as a perfect example of organised chaos.

The scale of the challenge for security forces to monitor the movements of suspected terrorists is daunting: 20 special agents are required to maintain a 24-hour surveillance of just one suspect, while the total size of the Belgium state security is only 600 officials. A few days before the Brussels attacks, the countrys head of military intelligence had called for a thorough revamp of Belgiums security apparatus.

Belgiums location at the crossroads of Europe, its fragile central authority and its long association with illegal arms trade on the continent have made it a congenial sanctuary for jihadi activists, both planners and operatives. Investigations after the Paris attacks in November last year had revealed that Belgium had been the logistical hub of the operation. In fact, Belgium-based terrorists have been involved with almost every major jihadi attack in the West since 9/11.

Belgians interior minister has admitted that there were inexcusable errors in his countrys handling of intelligence received last year from Turkey. European terrorism experts have now pointed that ISIS had been preparing to attack European targets for the last three years, confirming that this jihadi organisation, contrary to earlier impressions, has always had a global agenda.

The well-known authority on Al Qaeda and the ISIS, Jason Burke, in a recent article has pointed out that of the half-a-million Muslim population in Belgium (out of a total population of 11 million), nearly 500 Belgian Muslims have joined jihadi groups in Syria, the highest number per capita from any European country. He notes that Belgium has the same problems with its Arab origin community that other neighbouring countries have, i.e. the bulk of them are poorly educated, unemployed and socially marginalised, with many linked to criminal gangs and having access to weapons.

Mr Burke points out that the majority have been lured to jihad not by radical preachers but by social peers who have played on their idealism and adolescent rebelliousness. European jihadis of course include some extremists as well, often, like the El Bakraoui brothers, with a long criminal record. While about 80 Belgian recruits have been killed in the battlefields of Syria, some have returned to their home country to carry out terrorist attacks in Europe, such as the Paris attacks in November last year and the assault on the Copenhagen Cultural Centre and Synagogue in February this year.

Since the ISIS was proclaimed in June 2014, it has carried out 75 attacks in 20 countries, outside Iraq and Syria, in which nearly 1,300 people have been killed. The Brussels attacks are also the sixth attack by the ISIS in the last six weeks, the earlier ones having taken place in Baghdad, Damascus and Homs in Syria, in Tunisia, and then in Istanbul just a few days ago.

Experts have noted that, with the earlier Paris attacks and more recently the encounter between ISIS terrorists and the Belgian police at Verviers in January, the radicals are showing considerable sophistication in evading detection, putting up a professional defence when attacked, and cheerfully facing death when cornered. It is clear that even as the ISIS is receiving powerful blows in its home territories from the international coalition and has even lost some major towns, it is making up for these setbacks by carrying out audacious attacks far from home, taking advantage of cadres experienced in war, terror and subversion in Syria and Iraq.

Perhaps, to boost European morale, US secretary of state John Kerry has asserted that the caliphate is collapsing, but European leaders continue to believe that the ISIS remains a serious threat. In response to the latest carnage, sober policymakers and commentators have called for restraint, emphasising the need to address the alienation of Europes Arab population, rather than resort to unrestrained rhetoric and firepower.

But the most likely impact of the latest attacks will be calls in Europe for restrictions on free movement across the Schengen zone, curbs on receiving refugees, and heightened Islamophobia fanned by Right-wing extremists who expect to reap considerable electoral gains. Thus, the idea of Europe will get corroded and the continents enlightenment values, nurtured over three centuries, questioned and possibly abandoned: a significant achievement for a jihadi organisation that came to public attention just two years ago.
The media which attended Apple's launch mela in the US last week, with bated breath, was mostly underwhelmed by the main announcement: a new iPhone with little new to write about. But they were not about to admit to any disappointment -- which is we why have been subjected to much lofty speculation about the reason why iPhone SE (for Special Edition) is at 4 inches, much smaller than the last few editions, with almost the same specs as iPhone 6 and 6 Plus (OK, the front camera is better at 12MP). Analysts suggest it is meant to woo new customers in markets like India and China-- or existing owners of the similarly sized iPhone 5.

The former argument turned out to be nonsense when Apple announced the SE's India price -- Rs 39,000 which is equal to $588 compared to the global price of $399 (Rs 27,000). Clearly Apple doesn't want the business of ordinary Indians -- and is willing to keep prices here high to maintain an elite status.

Look at the phone being used by your bai, or the autoriksha driver or the FlipKart delivery boy: Chances are, it is larger than your own phone. For them, the phone is an all-in-one agni-astra: a tool for time-pass as much as for personal communication. They are not bothered about operating the phone with one hand. They are happy to use both hands or stick it conveniently on handle-bar or dashboard, in the landscape mode, to view movies. And today they can get a 3G 5-inch to 5.5-inch phone for Rs 5,000 or less.

Apple's Back to the Future march to a 4-inch form factor is seen by some, not as a brilliant marketing ploy -- but as an amber sign that innovation in phone hardware is slowly drying up. There is just so much you can do with the available RAM speeds, CPU power and battery capacity. A recent Digital Index study by Adobe found that demand for both smaller phones and tablet markets were slowing down as users went for phablets which served multiple needs. They are ready to put up with the inconvenience of a 6-inch or larger phablet rather than carrying two devices.

The iPhone SE is not available here till next week. Meanwhile, we look at three different phones launched in India recently which straddle all sizes and budgets, while slowly narrowing the gap between phone and tablet.

-IndiaTechOnline

Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter.
Mohammad Dar, a 65-year-old Muslim who is a US citizen from Pakistan, said he is not prejudiced for installing the signboards at his Dairy Queen Franchise in Kemah, Texas, while claiming that Hindus are the "racists". (Photo: AP)

Houston: A Pakistani-American owner of a popular US fast food franchise has put up anti-Hindu signs all over his restaurant, prompting calls for taking down the posters that many deem offensive.

Mohammad Dar, a 65-year-old Muslim who is a US citizen from Pakistan, said he is not prejudiced for installing the signboards at his Dairy Queen Franchise in Kemah, Texas, while claiming that Hindus are the "racists".

There are multiple signboards, large and small, on display throughout the restaurant, on the front door, and at the 'drive-thru' window that specifically target Hinduism, Fox News reported.

Dar insists that his message is not simply speculation but "fact" and that alongside ice cream, he wants to "serve up some education to his customers". Dar, told a local TV-station, "These are the facts, anybody has a problem, I challenge them to prove me wrong. I do not practice racism but human equality."

He claimed that of his nearly 200 customers per day, only about one per cent have been offended by the signs, which have been up for a few months.

The Sri Meenakshi Temple Society, a Hindu organisation in Pearland, does not agree with Dar's thinking. "Hindu philosophy allows one to respect other faiths and accommodate a broad perspective, rather than claiming monopoly of the Divine presence," the society said.

Dar told local media that he decided to post the signs at his business after "researching" Hinduism -- the third-largest religion in the world for 14 years.

He said the signs showcase the wrongs of certain religions, "specifically Hinduism".

Since it caught attention, Hindus of Greater Houston and Hindu American Foundation are calling on Dar to take down the signs from his business.

Local Americans have found Dar's actions in bad taste and offensive for any religion.

In a statement to mySA.com, Dairy Queen called the installment of the signs an "unfortunate action" and said they are "not representative of our iconic family brand."

"We do not condone this behaviour," company officials told the website.
Belgium authorities informed Indian Embassy that Ganesh was identified as one among the dead and his body is on its way to India via Amsterdam. (Photo: Twitter)

Brussels: Indian Embassy in Brussels on Monday said Raghavendran Ganesh, an Infosys employee from Bengaluru has been identified among the dead victims of the deadly terror attacks that struck the Belgian capital last week.

According to reports, Ganesh was killed in the blast that ripped through the Maalbeek metro station, minutes after the twin explosions at the Brussels airport. His body was recovered from a metro train where one of the bombs planted by the terrorists had exploded.

Read: Brussels attack: Last call of missing Infosys techie tracked, says Sushma Swaraj

The official twitter account of the Indian Embassy announced that his body will be handed over to his family and will be sent to India via Amsterdam. The Indian Ambassador has offered his condolences to the victims family.

Mortal remains r in process of being handed2family f Raghvendran to be taken 2 India from Amsterdam airport.@gauravcsawant @aditi_tyagi  India in Belgium (@IndEmbassyBru) March 28, 2016

According to earlier reports, Ganesh had last spoken to his mother Anapoorni on Skype, before he left for work on Tuesday morning, about an hour before the explosions. He had informed her about the twin blasts at the airport.

Read: Brussels attacks death toll rises to 35: officials

Anapoorni, who lives in Mumbai, said that he had been working in Brussels on a project for four years. He had visited India in February when his wife gave birth.
On Friday, police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man, who traveled over 320 km to kill the trader belonging to the Ahmadiyya minority community, had been arrested in connection with Shah's death. (Representational Image)

London: A Pakistani-origin shopkeeper in the UK has been brutally killed by another Muslim in a "religiously prejudiced" attack hours after he posted an Easter message on Facebook to "my beloved Christian nation".

Asad Shah, 40, a devout Muslim originally from the Pakistani city of Rabwah, was stabbed 30 times and had his head stamped on during a savage attack at his store in Glasgow last Thursday, British media reported on Monday.

On Friday, police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man, who traveled over 320 km to kill the trader belonging to the Ahmadiyya minority community, had been arrested in connection with Shah's death.

A spokeswoman added: "A full investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death which is being treated as religiously prejudiced."

Yesterday, prominent members of Glasgow's Muslim community called for calm and solidarity after police confirmed that the man arrested in connection with the killing was also a Muslim.

Following the revelation, Humza Yousaf, the Scottish government's only Muslim minister, immediately responded in a tweet: "No ifs, no buts, no living in denial vile cancer of sectarianism needs stamped out wherever it exists including amongst Muslims."

Shah, whose final Facebook update, posted a few hours before his death, offered Easter greetings "to my beloved Christian nation", was a member of the minority Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Pakistan.

The Ahmadiyya community faces persecution in Pakistan and is treated with open hostility by many orthodox Muslims. Meanwhile, over 70,000 pounds has been raised on an online fundraising page for the family of Shah, the Guardian reported.

Over 3,500 people have donated on the GoFundMe page, which was created on Good Friday by some of his customers to raise money for his family, the report said.
Erdogan did not name the diplomat. British Consul General Leigh Turner on Friday posted a photograph of himself with Dundar on Twitter before the start of the hearing. (Photo: AP)

Ankara: Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan warned a foreign diplomat on Monday over a "selfie" taken at the espionage trial of two journalists, after Britain's consul-general tweeted a photo of himself with one of the reporters.

Erdogan has harshly criticised Western diplomats after several showed up on Friday to support Can Dundar, editor-in-chief of the Cumhuriyet newspaper, and his colleague Erdem Gul on the first day of their trial in Istanbul.

The journalists are accused of trying to topple the government with the publication of a video purporting to show Turkey's state intelligence agency helping to ferry weapons into Syria by truck in 2014. The two face life imprisonment and their case has brought international condemnation and raised concerns about freedom of the press in Turkey.

"The consul general of a certain country went to the trial of a journalist charged with espionage, to support him. Moreover he gets a picture taken cheek to cheek (with the journalist) and had it published," the state-run Anadolu agency quoted Erdogan as saying, citing the text of a speech to Turkey's War Academy.

"And he does not stop at that, on social media he says things like 'Turkey needs to decide what kind of country it will be', words that exceed their intended meaning."

Erdogan did not name the diplomat. British Consul General Leigh Turner on Friday posted a photograph of himself with Dundar on Twitter before the start of the hearing. Several other ambassadors, consuls-general and diplomats also attended.

Turner tweeted: "Key point not comparisons or history but Turkey deciding for itself what kind of country it wants to be."

The British Foreign Office in London made no immediate comment on the matter.

Hospitality

Erdogan said the diplomat was only in Turkey because of the hospitality of the Turkish government, Anadolu reported.

"If this person could still go on working here that's because of our generosity and hospitality. If it were another country they wouldn't let a diplomat who exhibits this kind of behaviour to stay there a day more," it quoted him as saying.

The Turkish foreign ministry is conveying its displeasure to some foreign governments over social media postings from the trial, an official said, adding that the sharing did not conform with the principle of impartiality and could interfere with an independent judicial process.

Erdogan, who has cast Cumhuriyet's coverage as part of an attempt to undermine Turkey's global standing, has vowed that Dundar will "pay a heavy price".

On Friday, the court accepted the prosecutor's request for Erdogan to be one of the complainants and ruled the trial should be heard behind closed doors, decisions that drew anger from the journalists' supporters.

The trial comes as Turkey tries to deflect criticism from the European Union - which it aspires to join - and from rights groups that say it is muzzling a once-vibrant press.

Dundar and Gul spent 92 days in jail, almost half of it in solitary confinement, before the constitutional court ruled last month that their pre-trial detention was unfounded since the charges stemmed from their journalism work.
According to the report, Father Uzhunnalil was killed in the same way in which the Romans had crucified Jesus Christ.

Aden: In a grisly act, an Indian priest who was abducted from a nursing home in Yemen was crucified on Good Friday by Islamic State group, according to a report in The Washington Times.

A native of India, Father Tom Uzhunnalil, 56, had roots in Kerala. He was taken by Islamist gunmen, reportedly linked to ISIS, who attacked an old people's home in Aden, southern Yemen, killing at least 15 people, on March 4.

According to the report, Father Uzhunnalil was killed in the same way in which the Romans had crucified Jesus Christ.

Earlier, several religious groups had posted on social media that they had received reports which stated that Father Tom would be crucified on Friday during the Christian holiday.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had also confirmed Uzhunnalil's abduction. "Fr Tom Uzhunnallil - an Indian national from Kerala was abducted by a terror group in Yemen. We r making all efforts to secure his release," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted.

Swarajs reaction came after a growing alarm among the Christian community following an ominous report by the terror outfit to crucify the priest around Easter.

Yemeni authorities have blamed ISIS for the March 4 attack on the refuge for the elderly operated by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in main southern city Aden.

Four gunmen posing as relatives of one of the guests at the home burst inside, killing four Indian nuns, two Yemeni female staff members, eight elderly residents and a guard.
Gilbert Chikli, a convicted French-Israeli con man, understands China's allure. He is widely credited with devising a scam so successful that it has inspired a generation of copycats. (Representational Image)

Ashdod, Israel: Scam artists, drug cartels and gangs from around the world have found a new haven for laundering money: China. The country's well-developed underground financial networks have caught the attention of foreign criminals who are using China to clean their dirty money and pump it back into the global financial system - largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement, an AP investigation has found.

As China globalised, sending people and money abroad, so too did its criminal economy. Gangs from Israel and Spain, cannabis dealers from North Africa and cartels from Mexico and Colombia have laundered billions in China and Hong Kong, slipping their ill-gotten gains into the great tides of legitimate trade and finance that wash through the region, according to police officials, European and US court records and intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

Gilbert Chikli, a convicted French-Israeli con man, understands China's allure. He is widely credited with devising a scam so successful that it has inspired a generation of copycats. Called the fake CEO, fake president or business email compromise scam, the fraud has cost thousands of companies, many of them American, $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI.

"China has become a universal passageway for all these scams," said Chikli. "Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."

China's central bank and police refused repeated requests for comment. In a regular briefing with reporters Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said "is not, has not been, nor will be in the future a center of global money laundering."

Chikli made millions by impersonating top executives and intelligence agents and convincing employees at some of the world's largest companies to transfer money to his bank accounts, according to French legal documents. He told the AP he laundered 90 percent of that stolen money through China and Hong Kong.

"It's immense," he said in an interview at his sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port town on the Mediterranean.

A French court convicted Chikli last year of defrauding five companies of 6.1 million euros - La Banque Postale, LCL bank, HSBC, Accenture and Thomson, a French technology company. He was also convicted of attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others, including Barclays, American Express and the company that runs Disneyland Paris. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison and fined 1 million euros.

Today he remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel, where authorities refused to comment on his case. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel said his preferred method for laundering money was import-export schemes. He would bounce stolen funds to front companies in Hong Kong, then have the cash withdrawn and used to buy merchandise in China. He'd purchase, say, 20 tons of steel, but bribe the vendor to give him a receipt for 100 tons. Then he'd sell the goods and send the money to Israel, where the false invoices made the entire sum look like legitimate trading profit.

"Give me the documents and everything is fine," he said.

Such trade-based money laundering is a growing concern to US authorities. Three Colombians based in Guangzhou, China, led a global money-laundering network that moved over $5 billion for Spanish and Mexican drug cartels, according to a US Justice Department indictment unsealed in September. The network allegedly spanned the United States, Colombia, Spain, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Like Chikli, they processed illegal profits through bank accounts in Hong Kong and China and cleaned the money by buying merchandise, often counterfeit, which they shipped and sold in Colombia and elsewhere, according to the indictment.

Chikli insists he no longer runs fake CEO scams, but a new generation of fraudsters is copying his technique. Like Chikli, they direct stolen funds to China and Hong Kong. The FBI traced fake CEO scam transfers to more than 70 different countries. "At the very top of that list is Hong Kong and China," Jay Bienkowski, a supervisory special agent with the FBI in Washington, said in an interview with the AP prior to his retirement.

Police believe some of the networks now running fake CEO scams are collaborating with Chinese migrants in Europe to launder money, using a version of the ancient Chinese value transfer system called fei qian (FAY ch'ien), or flying money. In June, French police busted a similar operation in a Chinese wholesale district just north of Paris, where merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers.

"Non-Chinese criminal groups committing CEO frauds are sending money to China because Chinese criminal groups in Europe are giving them cash," said Igor Angelini, head of financial intelligence at Europol, the European Union law enforcement agency. "The scale of this phenomenon is quite substantial." Chinese authorities generally have done little to help Western companies targeted in fake CEO scams, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

The US State Department, in a report this month, reproached China for lackluster performance on money-laundering investigations. "US law enforcement agencies note China has not cooperated sufficiently," the report said.

Europol also has no cooperation agreement with China. Once funds land there, they vanish.

"For us it's a blind spot," said Angelini. "What happens after that is a black hole."
Lahore: Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects on Monday after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families.

Hundreds more were injured Sunday when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through the crowds near a children's play area in the park in the eastern city of Lahore, where many had gathered to celebrate Easter.

Anguished families spent Easter Monday burying their dead.

"I tried to pump my son's chest and give him CPR but he was no more. He died right in front of me," Javed Bashir told AFP as relatives wailed at his son Mutahir's funeral.

"My son, my son, nobody should lose their sons," sobbed the mother of another victim as other women restrained her.

A spokesman for the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan said the group had carried out the attack as "Christians are our target", and vowed more assaults on schools and colleges.

The attack was the worst so far this year in a country grimly accustomed to atrocities, and will further undermine fractious inter-religious ties in the Muslim-majority nation.

In response the country's powerful army announced it had carried out raids in Lahore as well as in Faisalabad and Multan, two other major cities in Punjab province. More were planned.

"Number of suspect terrorists and facilitators arrested and huge cache of arms and ammunition recovered," army spokesman Asim Bajwa tweeted.

Witnesses told of children screaming as people carried the injured in their arms in the aftermath of Sunday's attack, while frantic relatives searched for loved ones.

Rescue spokeswoman Deeba Shahbaz said the death toll had risen to 72 Monday, with 29 children among the dead.

A spokesman for the Lahore city administration put the number of Christians killed at "10-15" as authorities scrambled to identify the dead.

Bits of human flesh and torn cloth could be seen Monday around the bloodstained swings and merry-go-round.

Authorities said the park had seen a surge of visitors thanks to Easter and the warm spring weather.

Some 8,000 were still there when the bomb was detonated in the early evening, park officials said.

"The militants went for a softer target because there was tight security for churches in Lahore," said Cecil Shane Chaudhry, executive director of the National Commission for Justice and Peace, a Christian organisation.

Mourning period

There were frenzied scenes at hospitals in the immediate aftermath, with staff treating casualties on floors and in corridors as officials tweeted calls for blood donations.

Lahore's top administration official Muhammad Usman said around 100 of the wounded were either treated at the scene or quickly discharged. He said a further 180 had been admitted to hospital.

Schools and other government institutions were open Monday but three days of mourning were announced in Punjab.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed "grief and sorrow over the sad demise of innocent lives".

The US labelled the bombing "cowardly" while Russian president Vladimir Putin branded it a "crime".

The Vatican condemned the attack, calling it "fanatical violence against Christian minorities", and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called for Islamabad to protect religious minorities.

Pope Francis also appealed for tighter security for religious minorities.

Christians make up an estimated 1.6 percent of Pakistan's 200 million people and have long faced discrimination.

Twin suicide attacks against churches in Lahore killed 17 people in March last year, sparking two days of rioting by thousands of Christians.

The country is still scarred by a Taliban assault on a Peshawar school in 2014 that killed 150 people, mostly children.

A military operation targeting insurgents was stepped up in response. Last year the death toll from militant attacks fell to its lowest since the Pakistani Taliban were formed in 2007.

But analyst Imtiaz Gul said despite significant progress in military operations against the Taliban, the group was still able to carry out major attacks.

"Even if they are 50 people they can plan an attack of this scale and execute it," he said. "They're all over: they have affiliates, sympathisers and supporters."
Pakistani rescue workers remove a dead body from the site of bomb explosion in a park in Lahore, Pakistan. (Photo: AP)

Lahore: Pakistan on Monday launched a massive military operation in Punjab province in the wake of the deadly Taliban suicide bombing in Lahore, conducting raids and making several arrests.

Intelligence agencies along with Army and Rangers personnel carried out a series of operations in different parts of Punjab, the country's most populous province, a day after the suicide blast at a popular park in which 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed.

"A number of suspected terrorists and facilitators have been arrested during the five raids which were conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan after the Lahore suicide explosion," army media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said earlier but did not officially say that a widespread operation had been launched similar to the ones underway in the country's northwest and Karachi.

He added that a "huge cache of arms and ammunition" were also recovered by security officials.

There has long been a demand for launching a military operation in southern part of Punjab province because of the presence of militants hideouts there.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Gen Raheel Sharif separately chaired high-level security meetings to review the situation and directed law enforcement agencies including Army and Rangers to launch a comprehensive operation in Punjab province.

Police were also able to identify the Lahore suicide bomber as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of Muzzafargarh in southern Punjab.

He was believed to be between 20-25 years old. A sketch prepared with the help of eye-witnesses showed him with beard. During the meeting, Sharif was briefed by heads of law enforcement and intelligence agencies on different leads-based progress regarding yesterday's blast at the park, which was comparatively more crowded due to the Easter holiday.

The park is located in a posh-locality in Lahore, the hometown of the premier.

Sharif said: "Terrorists and their facilitators will eventually meet their logical end. We have to win the war (against terror). Coward terrorists are targeting innocent children and women."

The whole nation would have to be united in the face of terrorism, he said, adding that the provinces should speed up intelligence-based operations against terrorists.

"We must take this war to the doors of terrorist outfits before they are able to hit our innocent countrymen.

"We will not let terrorists play with the lives of innocent people," he said and directed the intelligence agencies have better coordination with each other to prevent terror attacks.

"Our resolve to fight terrorism as a nation and as a government is getting stronger. Our goal is not only to eliminate terror infrastructure but also the extremist mind-set, which is a threat to our way of life," he said.
Pakistani rescue workers remove dead body from the site of bomb blast in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

Lahore: A breakaway Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group has claimed responsibility for an Easter Sunday bombing in a park in the eastern city of Lahore that killed at least 72 people.

Read: Pakistan launches manhunt for terrorists behind Lahore blast

Ahsanullah Ahsan, spokesperson for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said that a suicide bomber with the faction deliberately targeted the Christian community.

Read: Weve entered Lahore: Militants message to Pak PM after suicide attack

The explosion took place near the childrens rides in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park  which was crowded with Christians celebrating Easter local police chief Haider Ashraf said. He said the explosion appeared to have been a suicide bombing, but investigations were ongoing.

Pakistani rescue workers remove a dead body from the site of bomb explosion in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

The explosion killed 72 people and wounded over 300, said Deeba Shahnaz, a spokesperson for Lahore rescue administration.

Read: Breakaway fraction of Pakistani Taliban claims Easter park bombing

Punjabs chief minister Shahbaz Sharif announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice, said Zaeem Qadri, a spokesman for the provincial government.

Pakistani police officers stand guard at the site of a bomb blast in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

The park was manned by police and private security guards, police chief Haider Ashraf said. We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat but no specific threat alert was received for this place, he added.

Read: Facebook apologises for safety check glitch after Pakistan blast

Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the Punjab government, called on people to donate blood, saying that many of those wounded were in a critical condition.

One witness, who wished to be identified only by his first name, Afzal, told AP that he had taken 20 children to hospital and carried 3 dead bodies to a police car. I cant explain to you the tragic situation, he said.

Another witness, Tariq Mustapha, said that he had just left the park when he heard an explosion. He said his friend was still missing.

A woman injured in the bomb blast is comforted by a family member at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

Footage broadcast on local television stations showed chaotic scenes in the park, with people running while carrying children and cradling the wounded in their laps.

Read: UN's Ban Ki-moon condemns 'appalling' Pakistan bombing

A witness, not identified by name on Pakistans Geo TV station, said he was heading toward a fairground ride with his wife and two children when he heard a huge bang and all four of them were thrown to the floor. A woman was shown crying while looking desperately for her missing five-year-old son.

A woman weeps for her injured family members as she tries to speak to security at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

A spokesman for the US National Security Council said that the United States condemns the attack in the strongest terms, describing it as a cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park. Ned Price said the US would continue to work with Pakistan and its partners to root out the scourge of terrorism.


The Obama/Hillary Administration has given aid and comfort to our sworn enemies by releasing them from GITMO



SEE: Ahmad Khan Rahami Is Arrested in Manhattan and New Jersey Bombings Well, here we go again! We open our arms to immigrants from war torn Islamic controlled countries and we pay the price through mayhem and destruction. And yet, Hillary Clinton is determined to flood our country with 65,000 more refugees from Islamic controlled countries when we have not been able to figure out a method to vet them.To hear Hillary Clinton's plan regarding importing tens of thousands of "refuges" from war torn Islamic controlled countries CLICK HERE JWK


Scottish police say the killing of a Muslim shopkeeper who wished Christians a happy Easter is being investigated as religiously prejudiced.



Vigils were held Friday and Saturday in memory of 40-year-old Asad Shah, who was killed Thursday night in Glasgow.



He had apparently posted messages on Facebook calling for religious harmony: Good Friday and very happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation x!



Police say a 32-year-old man has been arrested in connection with Shahs death. The suspect, who police say is Muslim, has not been identified or charged.



Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joined the Friday vigil in support of Shah and his family in Glasgow. Many lit candles and left flowers.



Roughly 150 people also gathered in a light rain on Saturday to honor him, an event organized by local teens.



Police Scotland said that a full investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death which is being treated as religiously prejudiced.




Suicide bomber targeting Christians kills 65, mostly women and children, in Pakistan park

By Mubasher Bukhari and Mehreen Zahra-MalikLAHORE/ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (Reuters) - A suicide bomber killed at least 65 people, mostly women and children, at a park in Lahore on Sunday in an attack claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction which said it had targeted Christians.More than 300 other people were wounded, officials said.The explosion occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park close to children's swings. The park is a popular site for members of Lahore's Christian community, many of whom had gone there to celebrate the Easter weekend holiday.Witnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled after the blast."When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air," said Hasan Imran, 30, a resident who had gone to Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for a walk.Officials said 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. Police Superintendant Mustansar Feroz said most of the casualities were women and children.The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack."The target was Christians," a spokesman for the faction, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said. "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore.""He can do what he wants but he won't be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks."Islamist militants in Pakistan have attacked Christians and other religious minorities often over the past decade. Many Christians accuse the government of doing little to protect them, saying politicians are quick to offer condolences after an attack but slow to take any concrete steps to improve security.TOLL MAY CLIMBSalman Rafique, a health adviser for the Punjab provincial government, said many of the wounded were undergoing emergency surgery in hospitals."We fear that the death toll may climb considerably,"he said.TV footage showed children and women standing in pools of blood outside the park, crying and screaming as rescue workers, officials, police and bystanders carrying injured people to ambulances and private cars.Dozens of women and children were wheeled into hospitals, covered in blood. Many of the injured were transported to hospitals on taxis and auto-rickshaws due to a shortage of ambulances. Hundreds of citizens arrived outside hospitals to donate blood.Local television channels reported that many of the dead bodies were being kept in hospital wards as morgues were overcrowded."We were just here to have a nice evening and enjoy the weather," Nasreen Bibi said at the Services Hospital, crying as she waited for doctors to update her on the condition of her two-year-old injured daughter."May God shower his wrath upon these attackers. What kind of people target little children in a park?"Soon after the attack, the Punjab government ordered all public parks to be closed and announced three days of mourning in the province. The main shopping areas were shut down and many of the city's main roads were deserted.The army was called in to control crowds outside the park. Some distraught, sobbing relatives clashed with police and rescue officials.The Vatican condemned the attack and said Pope Francis was praying for all Pakistanis, including the Christian minority."The horrible massacre of dozens of innocent people in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, casts a shadow of sadness and anguish on the feast of Easter," it said.In the United States, a strategic ally of Pakistan, White House National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said in a statement: "The United States stands with the people and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour. We will continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region ... to root out the scourge of terrorism."Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation of 190 million people, is plagued by a Taliban insurgency, criminal gangs and sectarian violence. Punjab is its biggest and wealthiest province but has traditionally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan.Sharif's opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.(Writing by Mehreen Zahra-Malik; Editing by Angus MacSwan and Gareth Jones)
I joined the staff of the Democrat-Herald the day after Memorial Day 1987, replacing Gus August, who had retired, and was assigned Guss beat: covering cops and courts. I inherited Guss desk and everything on and in it: a phone, a phone book and a jar of petrified rubber cement. Period.

I had applied for what I considered my dream job the minute I heard Gus was leaving. Hasso Hering interviewed me on a Saturday. I had a terrible cold and went to the interview running a fever, wearing jeans and an old sweater. I struggled with Hassos famous spelling test: when would I ever need to use battalion in a story? (Answer: almost every time I wrote about the Fire Department, which was a lot.) But, I passed and he offered me the job; then-City Editor Dave Gilbert tells me Hasso didnt want to hire me, but Gil insisted.

My desk faced that of the late Connie Petty, who had been at the paper since I was in seventh grade. Connie covered the arts and fascinating people. She scared me a little until I learned to love her. Connie was sharp-tongued and sharp-witted. One Friday, when Publisher John Buchner was making his weekly pass through the newsroom with the draw paychecks, Connie stage-whispered, Take two: theyre small.

The DH was owned by Capital Cities Communications during most of my 11 years there, and our paper was one of several to participate in Cap Cities internship program for minority journalism students. Like most brand-new reporters, the interns were assigned to police beat on my days off. Like most brand-new reporters, they loved it or they hated it. Cindy Lopez loved it. She was hired full-time when her internship ended; she moved on to The Daily News in Longview. Shes now been a Longview cop for more than 25 years. One intern who hated the beat would read the weekend police logs and decide to let Marilyn deal with them on Monday (cops told me this). That interns career in journalism ended with enrollment in law school.

Another new reporter had an especially hard time getting information from Linn County sheriffs detectives. One morning as deadline approached, Bob was so frustrated that I offered to help. I called Detective P.J. Miller, asked some questions, and talked about his dogs and his collection of custom cowboy boots while Bob stood near my computer. When I hung up, Bob said, So thats how you do it: youre nice to them. Uh-huh.

Hasso and I didnt always see things the same way. He liked police stories, but liked to spice them up with archaic words like bandit, culprit and lawman or tone them down by removing information that I thought was important. When his butchery was too much, I would demand that he take my byline off the story. He never seemed to understand why.

Many of Hassos changes were masterful, however. He would eliminate repetition, duplication, and extraneous verbiage that stalled a story. I would often read the results and declare that he hadnt touched a word. I learned what I know about copy editing from Hasso; if you do it right, the writer cant tell that youve done a thing.

Hasso also taught me to focus. When a series of interviews and stacks of police reports sent a story in several directions at once, he would say, Just tell me what happened.

The ones I cant forget:

August 3, 1988  the Big Wreck on I-5. A pullout quote from Gary Whitehouses interview with a survivor  Everything was crashing and screams. Hasso was out of town and the rest of us scrambled to cover and photograph everything, sending photos and stories to AP out of cycle, a term that no longer exists in daily journalism. I can still hear bare metal car wheels scraping across the charred northbound lanes as tow trucks pulled them to the shoulder.

February 26, 1988  Dairy worker Dallas Ray Stevens kidnaps his three young nieces and kills 5-year-old Nicole Lynae Edwards. I was working that Saturday morning when Linn and Lane County sheriffs deputies were searching Hector Macphersons farm. I got Stan out of bed to go with me. We were at the farm when Stevens was captured, and when Linn Deputy Dave Freeman found Nicole; Stan caught those moments on film, I wrote about them. We were at the courthouse that October when Stevens was sentenced to death; his sentence was changed to life without parole in 2002.

October 29, 1989  St. Marys Church fire. Covered the fire and police response, investigation, arrest and trial of Bruce Scott Erbs.

January 16, 1994  Bodies of Ian Dahl and Bridget Camber found on Rondo Street; engaged to be married, kidnapped in Salem and driven to Albany, where they were executed. Saturday reporter called me in (cant remember why). I covered this one from discovery through investigation, arrest, trial, sentencing. After the first day of trial, I was putting our dog out for the night and became terrified of being in the dark in my own backyard. First time that had happened.

November 3-6, 1997  4-year-old autistic Eli Kelt disappeared from his home on Riverside Drive, found dead in a slough four days later. Stan and I spent all of Monday and Tuesday at the search area in the Willamette Greenway. Search scaled back on Wednesday, private searchers went to work. Stan and Robert Hood covered the discovery on Thursday; I did the rewrite at the office.

Spent 14 hours of a birthday at the courthouse through closing arguments and jury deliberations for the trial of a long-haul trucker who had rear-ended a car stalled on the shoulder of I-5 near Brownsville, killing a teen mother and injuring other family members. OSP Sergeant John Burright found her infant still strapped in her ejected baby seat, safe. I no longer remember any of the names even though the driver was tried twice.

I left the paper in mid-January 1999, the day before closing arguments in the murder trial of Cornelius Key Davis. Les Gehrett finished that one.

Hasso told me if things didnt work out at City Hall, I would be welcome at the paper any time.
Over 20 thousand businesses on hold in Q1/2016

In the first quarter of 2016, 20,044 businesses suspended activities, a 23.9 percent rise compared to Q1/2015, the General Statistics Office (GSO) said March 25.

However, there were 23,700 newly registered businesses (a 24.8 percent rise compared to Q1/2015) with capital totaling VND186 trillion ($8.3 million), a staggering 67.2 percent increase, announced GSO in Vietnams socio-economic report.

Average registered capital was VND7.8 billion (35.4 percent increase). The newly registered businesses in Q1/2016 are forecasted to create 322,000 jobs, a 21.5 percent increase.

Over 9,000 businesses resumed activities, a significant jump of 84.1 percent compared to last year.

However, moderate domestic growth coupled with slow growth globally has taken its toll on Vietnamese businesses.

Almost 3,000 businesses filed for bankruptcy in Q1/2016 (a 13.8 percent increase), most of which were small scale with registered capital of less than VND10 billion.

Director General of General Statistics Office Nguyen Bich Lam said that the number of bankruptcies is not a cause for concern given the number of newly registered businesses, which have already created 200,000 jobs. Furthermore, most of the bankruptcies were among small businesses with less than VND10 billion in capital.
The prolonged drought caused by the El Nino weather pattern has damaged thousands of hectares of coffee, rice and pepper in the Central Highlands.

Arid fields in the Central Highlands. Photo: Nhat Ha

More than 28,000 families in the Central Highlands do not have enough water to drink and water crops, according to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The drought has resulted in more than 15,000 hectares of rice, 40,000 hectares of coffee and 2,200 hectares of pepper in the Central Highlands either to drop significantly in productivity or to fail completely. The total damage to commercial crops in the region is estimated to extend to 160,000 hectares by the end of March if the current dry conditions persist, the ministry predicted.

Hundreds of reservoirs in Central Highland provinces are down to about 30 percent to 40 percent of their capacity, with some even falling to as low as 10 percent. Dak Lak province has recorded 115 lakes that are now completely dry, and this number is expected to increase to 250 by the end of March.

Cattle graze on the failed crops. Photo: Nhat Ha

Phung Van Thanh, a farmer in Chu Puh district, Gia Lai province, said he spent VND100 million ($4,500) to dig three additional wells, but his three hectares of coffee were gradually succumbing to the conditions because of water shortages. Next month, if there is no rain, I will have to give up on my 10-year-old coffee plantation. This is the worst drought I have ever seen.

Le Van Phuong, a pepper grower in Chu Puh district, faces the same dire situation. He said that pepper was a more valuable commodity than coffee, so his family and neighbors were doing everything they could to save their pepper crop.

From the beginning of pepper season until now, I've always been on the edge. I had to dig the old well down a further 30 meters to search for water. There are days when I even stay up till midnight waiting for water.

A dried up stream in Gia Lai province, photo: Nhat Ha

Five Central Highland provinces have requested the government provide VND300 billion ($13.4 million) to upgrade 48 small irrigation projects. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has also asked for more than VND4,000 billion to invest in 16 key irrigation schemes.
In contrast with the luxury life that most people assume royal families have, Nguyen Phuoc Bao Tai, nephew of King Thanh Thai from the Nguyen Dynasty- the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam - has been living in poverty his whole life.

His father is Prince Nguyen Phuoc Vinh Giu, the seventh son of King Thanh Thai, one of the nationalist kings of the time who had deep anti-French sentiments.

In 1916, the family of the king was banished to Reunion Island by the French colonists for their promotion of an independent Vietnam.

After 31 years, in 1947, the family was allowed to return. Former prince Vinh Giu was then sent to work in a civil engineering unit in Can Tho City, where Nguyen Phuoc Bao Tai was born.

Almost nobody knew about his royal origin till the late Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet visited him in 2005. All his neighbors were surprised.

Former prince Vinh Giu and late Prime Minister Vo Van Kiet in 2005. Photo courtesy of Bao Tai

Sympathizing with the familys situation, the Prime Minister asked the provincial government to help the royal family to buy a two-floor house on an installment plan. Bao Tai, the youngest son of the Prince, was given a motorbike to work as motorbike-taxi driver (xe om).

The 52 year-old forgotten royal, Bao Tai, has lived for over a year in a 12 meter square rented room in Ho Chi Minh City.

Nguyen Phuoc Bao Tai. Photo by Duy Tran

Sometimes he takes extra work as a builder with a salary of about VND 200,000 ($9) per day. He has to go from place to place to ask if anyone wants to hire him, and as he is getting older and weaker, he finds it more and more difficult to get hired.

However, to him, hardship counts for nothing, but what breaks his heart is his only childs disease.

I chose a royal name for my girl, but unfortunately, her life is just as miserable as mine. She suffers from cerebral palsy, so she lies in bed all day, she not not speak and can not eat or drink by herself, Bao Tai said.

In several years to come, my wife and I can no longer do manual work as we are getting older and we do not know how to make money to buy medicine for my daughter,

Bao Tai with his daughter and wife. Photo by Duy Tran

The middle name of the royal line is Bao, which was one of names for royal families when feudal dynasties ruled the country. And his daughters name is Nguyen Phuoc Thanh Tuyen, which is also a royal name.

Beset with poverty, Bao Tai has never dreamed of getting a chance to come back to offer his father and grandfather incense as they were buried in Hue, the capital city of the Nguyen Dynasty.

But with financial support from Hue authorities, the family on March 24, arrived in Hue after 10 years on the anniversary of King Thanh Thais death.

The family in Hue to offer incence to Thanh Thai King and Former Prince Vinh Giu. Photo by Dac Duc

This is the first time my daughter and I have come to Hue to offer incense for our ancestors, Bich Thuy, Bao Tais wife, said.

Bao Tai, could not hide his emotions and began to cry.

They will stay in Hue for four days before going back to Ho Chi Minh City  to continue to struggle to make ends meet.
Song Dazhao (left) and Wan Shaoping observe the landscape and the vegetation of the area to learn about leopards' habitat via Google Earth during a field trip.[Photo provided to China Daily]

In 2008, the Chinese Felid Conservation Alliance began building a camera-trapping network to monitor North Chinese leopards in Shanxi province. Today, it says there are more than a dozen members of the species in the area. Xu Lin reports.

In the first scene you can see two leopards walking past in a mountain forest. Then, one pauses after it notices something - an infrared camera. It claws at it several times until it falls off its mount.

This is among the scenes captured by more than 100 infrared cameras in the central Taihang Mountains in Shanxi province.

In 2008, the Beijing-based Chinese Felid Conservation Alliance began to build its camera-trapping network there to monitor North Chinese leopards in an area covering about 300 square kilometers.

"Leopards are awe-inspiring and pretty animals. It's not difficult to film them, but what we want is for them to live unharmed and for their habitats to be protected," says Song Dazhao, 39, cofounder of the nonprofit organization.

In 2011, the CFCA and a biodiversity research team of Beijing Normal University started a monitoring program for the leopard population there.

It was the first research project on the subspecies that's native to China.

The project aimed to study the animal and figure out ways to boost the leopard population in China.

In May 2014, the cameras captured a female leopard and the researchers wondered whether it was pregnant.

About half a year later, they were excited to see the leopard again, together with two cubs.

"We love big cats. And when we see cubs we feel that what we are doing is worth it," says Song.

Leopards are solitary animals and seek courtship only during breeding season.

But their monitoring has begun to reveal other sides to the animal.

According to Wan Shao-ping, director of the North Chinese leopards project at the CFCA, the leopards like to lie on their backs with their legs in the air and enjoy the sunshine. They love playing with twigs and the males typically fight each other for territory.

Cubs are usually born in a litter of two in April or May, and become independent when they are around a year old. Their main prey are roe deer and wild boars.

As of now, the CFCA has only six members and they are together because they love nature and big cats.
Vietnamese Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh met Chinese counterpart Chang Wanquan in Hanoi with the dispute over territory in the East Sea in the agenda.

Vietnamese Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh (left) and his Chinese counterpart, Chang Wanquan.

During a meeting on March 27, Vietnamese Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh and Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan agreed that both countries should abide by the principles set out in international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), in order to reach a long-term and sustainable solution for the ongoing dispute over territory in the East Sea, Vietnam News Agency reported.

The ministers agreed that the two armies should "keep calm, restrain themselves, well control the situation, avoid conflicts and not threaten to use force in order to protect peace, stability, collaboration and the interests of the two countries, the region and the world as a whole".

Both ministers shared the view that Vietnam and China needed to adhere to guidelines laid out in the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC). This agreement, signed by ASEAN countries and China in 2002, is intended to be a platform to build trust and prevent maritime disputes from escalating.

The DOC is expected to provide the framework for the discussion and finalization of the formal and binding Code of Conduct (COC) - a set of principles for tension management between the claimant in the East Sea, which Thanh and Chang agreed Vietnam and China needed to aim toward.

By resolving the long-term conflict over the area, defense minister Thanh and his Chinese counterpart said they hoped to further develop bilateral relations between their two nations.

The two ministers also took part in the signing ceremony for the memorandum on UN peace-keeping cooperation between the Vietnamese and Chinese defense ministries. Minister Chang is scheduled to be in Vietnam from March 26 to 28.
The Ho Chi Minh City's Party chief believes the city should be a special economic zone and have greater autonomy in order to take full advantage of its potential as an industry hub.

Secretary of the citys Peoples Committee, Dinh La Thang, made the comments at the 4th Convention to the 10th Ho Chi Minh City Executive Committee of the Communist Party on March 27.

The city needs to establish a governance system on the basis of lessons drawn from other modern cities of the world," Thang said.

Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee Secretary Dinh La Thang. Photo: VnExpress

According to the secretary, decades ago, when the city was known as Saigon, it was the benchmark for development for the likes of Singapore and Thailand. However, he said the city now lagged behind not only other metropolises in the region but also other Vietnamese provinces in terms of the Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI).

Thang added that the city was also notorious for crime, pollution and bad traffic. Have we tried our best? What are we lacking? We meet the demographic requirements; our people are hard working, creative and stand by our traditions. We cannot accept not being number one."

Ho Chi Minh City needs to establish an innovative system that decentralizes decision making and regulation...to maximize its potential and advantages, he said.

According to Thang, Ho Chi Minh City is different from other parts of the country, and so requires a different management approach compared to, for example, a rural province in the Central Highlands.

Thang suggested the city should have a metropolitan governance system with a separate municipal law like the Hanoi Capital Law. The Hanoi Capital Law gives it greater autonomy than other cities in terms of urban planning, finance, land use, science and technology, transportation, infrastructure development and security.

The secretary also said Ho Chi Minh City would not become a more livable city unless crime was brought under control. He also pledged to expand the recently-launched hotline for people to raise issues with the city authorities.

In 2015, Ho Chi Minh City submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Planning and Investment seeking to establish special economic zones in four of its southern districts - District 7, Binh Chanh, Nha Be and Can Gio - where the maritime economy is a priority.
Nguyen Hong Phuc, 37, and Bui Van Manh, 26, were arrested by military police over allegations of smuggling an arsenal of pistols, rifles and ammunition from Thailand for sale in Cambodia. Photo: Kmer Times

Two Vietnamese men were arrested and charged by the Banteay Meanchey Provincial Court yesterday over allegations of smuggling an arsenal of pistols, rifles and ammunition from Thailand for sale in Cambodia, local officials said.

The Colonel Men Phirum, Deputy Commander of the provincial military police, said that 37-year-old Nguyen Hong Phuc and 26-year-old Bui Van Manh were arrested in collaboration with customs police at the Poipet international checkpoint around 6:30 pm on Saturday.

He said they were attempting to cross the border when customs officials checked the cart they were on, discovering the weapons cache.

Police seized 16 pistols, six rifles and 78 bullets. The sale of firearms is strictly forbidden in Cambodia.

He said the suspects were charged on yesterday by the provincial courts prosecutor under article 490 of the Cambodian Penal Code.

They were charged with the unauthorized transporting of weapons, he said. According to their charges, if found guilty they shall be sentenced to imprisonment from six months to three years.

The two have both been sent to provincial prison until their pre-trial hearing.
March 27, 2016 | 04:54 pm PT

Reading Luong Hoai Nams My haunted mind on greed and corruption, even when life improves  in VN Express International (18 March 2016) brought my mind to neighboring countries in Southeast Asia.

After the monetary crisis in 1998, countries in Southeast Asia underwent significant economic growth. Visiting major cities across the region you can see similar scenes of towering new buildings, luxurious private vehicles causing massive traffic jams, and the ostentatious demonstration of personal wealth.

Nams concern was that improvements in quality of life are not followed by the elimination of peoples greed. This reality demonstrates that poverty alone cannot be viewed as the only reason why people commit crimes like robbery and theft.

I do not intend to debate Nams view. However, talking about corruption and finding ways to decrease or even eliminate such a practice is very important.

It is a fact that Vietnam and other neighboring countries, with the notable exception of Singapore, are plagued by corruption. The Corruption Perceptions Index released annually by Transparency International shows this. Of the 168 countries examined, only Singapore is viewed as a clean country, and five countries - Vietnam, Timor Leste, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia - are ranked below 100.

Ironically, Southeast Asian countries are inhabited by many religious people. Indonesia has the biggest Moslem population in the world. Similarly, the Mekong countries (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam) are home to the biggest Buddhist population in the world. The majority of people in the Philippines and Timor Leste embrace Catholicism. In short, religion is the most prominent phenomenon in the region, which is inhabited by about six hundred million people.

It cannot be ignored that most religious people are mindful of good and bad actions, of the impact of bad moral conduct. All religions teach their followers to simultaneously practice all kinds of benevolence and avoid sins or criminal activities. In relation to greed, we can also underline that no religion preaches the merits of greed to its followers.

So, should we separate the greedy nature of people in the region from the religions they practice? Or, conversely, should we separate the religion, as well as the inclination for greed, from the corruption issue?

I prefer to the second option. I do not think that people living in the clean countries are more religious, as well as less greedy, than those living in the corrupt countries are. All human beings, whatever their race, national background, or religion, have potential to do good or bad things.

People engage in corruption because they can take advantage of a system that makes it easy for them to do so, regardless of their religious conviction or their propensity for greed. Conversely, a strong system will not provide any opportunity for individuals to be corrupt.

The strong systems in most clean countries are not merely a matter of implementing laws that make people afraid of punishment. Rather, it is a matter of preventing any possibility of corruption. It requires good governance being implemented in both accountability and the transparency of all public bodies.

Simultaneously, all citizens as taxpayers have both the right and responsibility to monitor how such public bodies, including the officers of such bodies, use and manage their money. However, this part cannot work properly without protecting the people who report corruption. It is the states responsibility to create a legal environment to protect these witnesses.

Vietnam and other neighboring countries are currently facing a similar challenge in reducing or eradicating corruption. The establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community requires good governance. It is time for each country in Southeast Asia to work to free the region of corruption.

*The writer is Indonesian working as an NGO activist in Bangkok, Thailand.
Almost 2.5 million foreign visitors entered Vietnam in the first quarter of the year, a rise of around 20 percent from the same period in 2015, data from the General Statistics Office showed.

Arrivals from Asia stood at an estimated 1.685 million, 25 percent higher year on year, and accounting for 68.5 percent of the total. Visitors from neighboring China led the trend with around 580,500, jumping 65.9 percent, and were followed by South Korea with an estimated 408,100 visitors, rising 30.2 percent year on year, and Japan with 192,400, up 11.8 percent compared to the first quarter last year.

Visitors from Europe increased 11 percent to an estimated 447,300, accounting for 18.2 percent of the total, followed by arrivals from North and South America with about 220,800, up 11.4 percent, and from the Australasian region with 100,100 visitors, up 4.3 percent from the same period in 2015.

Visitors from the United States alone rose 14.3 percent to about 164,700, while visitors from the United Kingdom stood at about 68,700, up 23.3 percent year on year, and arrivals from Australia alone increased 7.3 percent to some 92,000 in the first quarter, according to the data.

Foreign arrivals by air were estimated at 1.986 million, up 16.8 percent year on year, and accounting for 80.7 percent of total visitors during January-March. The arrivals by road also saw a rise for the quarter of 50.5 percent to an estimated 435,600, but arrivals by sea fell 40.1 percent to 37,000.
An aerial view shows Yonaguni island, Okinawa prefecture, in this file picture taken by Kyodo on March 28, 2007. Japan on March 28, 2016 will switch on a radar station in the East China Sea that for the first time will give it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of disputed islands claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing. The new Self Defence Force base on Yonaguni is at the western extreme of a string of Japanese islands in the East China Sea, 150 km (93 miles) south of the disputed islands known as the Senkaku islands in Japan and the Diaoyu in China. REUTERS/Kyodo

YONAGUNI, March 28 (Reuters) - Japan on Monday switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of islands disputed by Japan and China, a move bound to rile Beijing.

The new Self Defence Force base on the island of Yonaguni is at the western extreme of a string of Japanese islands in the East China Sea, 150 km (90 miles) south of the disputed islands known as the Senkaku islands in Japan and the Diaoyu in China.

China has raised concerns with its neighbours and in the West with its assertive claim to most of the South China Sea where the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims. Japan has long been mired in a territorial dispute with China over the East China Sea islands.

"Until yesterday, there was no coastal observation unit west of the main Okinawa island. It was a vacuum we needed to fill," said Daigo Shiomitsu, a Ground Self Defence Force lieutenant colonel who commands the new base on Yonaguni.

"It means we can keep watch on territory surrounding Japan and respond to all situations."

Members of Japan's Self Defence Force hold an opening ceremony of a new military base on the island of Yonaguni in the Okinawa prefecture, March 28, 2016. Japan on Monday switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of islands disputed by Japan and China, a move bound to rile Beijing. REUTERS/Kyodo

Shiomitsu on Monday attended a ceremony at the base with 160 military personnel and around 50 dignitaries. Construction of some buildings, which feature white walls and traditional Okinawan red-tiled roofs, is still unfinished.

The 30-sq-km (11-sq-mile) island is home to 1,500 people, who mostly raise cattle and grow sugar cane. The Self Defence Force contingent and family members will increase the population by a fifth.

"This radar station is going to irritate China," said Nozomu Yoshitomi, a professor at Nihon University and a retired major general in the Self Defence Force.

In addition to being a listening post, the facility could be used a base for military operations in the region, he added.

The deployment fits into a wider military build-up along the island chain, which stretches 1,400 km (870 miles) from the Japanese mainland.

Policy makers last year told Reuters it was part of a strategy to keep China at bay in the Western Pacific as Beijing gains control of the South China Sea.

Toshi Yoshihara, a U.S. Naval War College professor, said Yonaguni sits next to two potential flashpoints in Asia - Taiwan and the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands.

"A network of overlapping radar sites along the island chain would boost Japan's ability to monitor the East China Sea," he added.

Yonaguni is only around 100 km (62 miles) east of Taiwan, near the edge of a controversial air defence identification zone set up by China in 2013.

Over the next five years, Japan will increase its Self Defence Force in the East China Sea by about a fifth to almost 10,000 personnel, including missile batteries that will help Japan draw a defensive curtain along the island chain.

Chinese ships sailing from their eastern seaboard must pass through this barrier to reach the Western Pacific, access to which Beijing needs both as a supply line to the rest of the world's oceans and for naval power projection.

(Editing by Nick Macfie)
During the 31st regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, United States delegates raised concerns regarding human rights in Syria, Iran, Burundi, South Sudan, North Korea, and China. They also highlighted abuses in several other countries.

The delegates congratulated the government of Burma for taking key steps in the direction of democracy, but noted concern about continued military influence over the parliament and key ministries, abuses and discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities, and continued legal restrictions on freedoms of speech, assembly, and association.

The United States led a joint statement on freedom of expression and peaceful transitions within democracies. Sixty-six countries supported the statement welcoming actions taken by states undergoing transitions in democratically elected leaders to protect freedom of expression. The United States also supported important resolutions on the need for the protection of human rights defenders and the freedom to peacefully protest. The Council defeated an unprecedented number of hostile amendments, 31, which aimed to weaken the resolution on human rights defenders.

U.S. Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Theodore Allegra highlighted abuses in Latin America: The Venezuelan government uses detentions to suppress and punish government critics, including the political opposition, civil society, and independent media, he said. We call for the release of political prisoners and justice for those tortured and mistreated in detention.

He also called on Cuba to end the practice of arbitrary short term detention, respect freedoms of expression and assembly and release all political prisoners.

Regarding Russia, Mr. Allegra said the U.S. remains concerned about the occupation of Crimea and Russias actions in eastern Ukraine.

Domestically, the Russian government increasingly restricts freedom of expression, while creating a climate of impunity for harassment and attacks against activists, journalists, and the political opposition.

The promotion of human rights remains a pillar of U.S. foreign policy. The fight for greater freedom, greater respect, greater dignity is a unifying narrative of our humanity in all its diversity, Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken said recently. That is why we are very proud to join this Council in upholding our common responsibility to this universal pursuit.

The United Nations Human Rights Council celebrated its 10th anniversary this month. The United States commitment to the mandate and mission of the Council runs deep into our nations history, Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in an address to the High-Level segment. It is engraved into our nations founding values and etched into the standards we strive to hold ourselves to every day.
Radovan Karadzic, known as the "Butcher of Bosnia," was sentenced March 24 to 40 years in prison for genocide and other crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia court in The Hague, Netherlands.

The former leader of the break-away Serbian Republic of Bosnia/Herzegovina was found guilty of murder, persecution, forcible transfer, terror and hostage taking during the Bosnian War from 1992 to 1995, a conflict that's estimated to have taken more than 100,000 lives.

Delivering the verdicts, presiding Judge O-Gon Kwon said Karadzic had ordered detained Bosnian Muslim men from Srebrenica to be transferred for killing. It was part of brutal campaign against Bosnian Muslims that came to be known as ethnic cleansing.

In statement issued March 24, U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mark Toner noted, with the trial chambers conviction, we move one step closer to closing another painful chapter in the story of the conflict in the former Yugoslavia.

Well never forget the horrors of genocide in Bosnia or the many other crimes committed on all sides of the conflict in the former Yugoslavia, nor will we ever stop honoring their victims and survivors. We urge the members of the international community to cooperate with the ICTY and respect its decisions.
One of La Julianas cannons as found by archeologists. National Monuments Service, DAHG

Deep in the bowels of the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin lies a treasure trove that could represent a new approach to preserving Spains underwater heritage: nine bronze cannons, part of the total of 32 that were aboard La Juliana, a former merchant vessel-turned-Spanish Armada warship that sank off the west coast of Ireland on September 21, 1588 as it tried to make its way back home.

Recovered last summer from the seabed near Streedagh, north of the city of Sligo, along with other artifacts, the cannons will not go on display for another two years.

The agreement between the Irish and Spanish culture ministries will mean permanent cooperation in all matters related to the Spanish Armada ARQUAs Ivan Negueruela

During that time they will be my guests, and Ill be giving them my undivided attention, says Rolly Read, the head of the museums preservation department, as he winds his way through the narrow corridors that lie beneath the institution to the room where the cannons are kept.

A couple of weeks ago a group of senior officials from Spain's Ministry of Culture and the National Museum of Underwater Archeology (ARQUA) in Cartagena were here to forge closer cooperation so that some of the cannons still lying on the seabed off Streedagh can also eventually be recovered.

After cleaning, the cannons begin to yield up their secrets. Oscar Elias Auad (EL PAIS)

The agreement between the Irish and Spanish culture ministries will mean permanent cooperation in all matters relating to the Spanish Armada, says ARQUAs Ivan Negueruela, barely containing his excitement at this major development in protecting Spanish shipwrecks and their contents lying in Irish waters. We will be providing our Irish counterparts with any documentation we have that they need to help map or trace vessels, and they will be able to count on us to work closely with them on future underwater projects, he adds.

The nine cannons recovered so far are being carefully and slowly cleaned in special water tanks. During the process, the team from Irelands Underwater Archeology Unit (UAU) has discovered that the guns were made in 1570 in Genoa by Doria Il Gioardi. Each has been inscribed with the name of a saint: San Severo, San Giovanni, Santa Madrona...

We need to remember that in taking on the protestant vessels of the English or those of the Islamic Turks, these vessels were waging an ideological war, a religious war that was powerfully symbolized by these saints, explains Fionnbarr Moore, who led the diving expedition that recovered the cannons. La Juliana also fought in the Battle of Lepanto, in 1571, when a combined Christian force defeated the Ottoman Turks.

In taking on the protestant vessels of the English or those of the Islamic Turks, these vessels were waging an ideological war

Fionnbarr Moore, expedition director

The team at the National Museum of Ireland says the cleaning process will yield further information about the guns, and perhaps even a few surprises. The Spanish Armada always keeps an ace up its sleeve, says Read, telling the story of a British specialist brought in to restore one of the smaller guns discovered back in the 1980s.

As he removed the cannon from the hot water tank it had been kept in for cleaning, a projectile that had been lodged in the barrel suddenly came loose and fell into the water, making a huge splash and drenching him. That was its final shot, La Julianas last surprise.
Felipe VI (l) receives congressional speaker Patxi Lopez at the Zarzuela royal palace on March 7. LUIS SEVILLANO

Spanish politicians have a month left to negotiate a governing deal that will avert a fresh general election in June.

But the more than three months that have elapsed since December 20 have taken their toll on all the main parties.

The fragmented scenario that emerged from that vote forced political leaders into a flurry of cross-party negotiations unprecedented since Spain returned to democracy after the Franco dictatorship in the 1970s.

Socialist leader Pedro Sanchez faces the dilemma of finding enough support from other forces or risk being replaced

But the winner of the December election, Mariano Rajoy of the Popular Party (PP), is completely isolated and has been unable to secure any support from other congressional groups to be reinstated as prime minister despite his 123 seats  176 are needed for an overall majority.

His closest rival, Socialist Party leader Pedro Sanchez (90 seats), made an unsuccessful bid to become prime minister and now faces the dilemma of finding enough support from other forces or risk being replaced at the helm of his own party.

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Meanwhile, Pablo Iglesias of Podemos is grappling with internal strife, and Albert Rivera of Ciudadanos no longer enjoys his original aura as leader of a fresh party.

The law stipulates May 2 as the deadline when parliament dissolves and new elections will have to be called. But so far no visible agreement is on the horizon.

Many possible outcomes

The leaders of PSOE and Podemos are scheduled to meet on March 30, but their significant differences make it unlikely that a deal will emerge from that encounter. Before this, Sanchez and Iglesias had already discussed ways to cooperate through a leftist coalition, but Podemos will not hear of an alliance that includes Ciudadanos, while the Socialists do not want to include regional forces that advocate independence referendums.

In fact, the only agreement to emerge out of this entire 99-day period is a governing program drafted jointly by the Socialists and Ciudadanos, who need backing from other parties to achieve the required majority, as their own joint congressional presence numbers just 130.

Meanwhile, the PPs attempts to convince the PSOE and Ciudadanos to form a grand coalition are still stuck at square one.

Yet many political leaders have misgivings about a new election that would likely yield a similarly fragmented outcome. Pedro Sanchez is not even certain that he will still be the Socialist nominee, or whether Andalusian premier Susana Diaz might present a challenge to his leadership.

Many political leaders have misgivings about a new election that would likely yield a similarly fragmented outcome

It is also unclear whether Podemos would benefit from a new vote, considering that its regional partners in Galicia, Catalonia, Valencia and the Basque Country are lately expressing a desire to go their own way rather than run together again.

The PP has no obvious internal conflict, but that is because the conservatives lack a mechanism to discuss their own leadership. Rajoy refuses to step aside in favor of another candidate despite his complete rejection in Congress. In fact, for the last three months the PP has been simply sitting quietly and waiting for a new election.

Of the four main parties, Ciudadanos is the only one free from internal strife, but sources admit that these three months have somewhat eroded the partys image as an emerging force that does not fit into the old left-right paradigm and instead advocates new versus old. Riveras deal with the Socialists could also make it hard to attract disaffected PP voters.

The countdown ends on May 2, when parliament will be dissolved if no deal is reached before then. In that case, Spaniards would be asked to vote again on June 26.

English version by Susana Urra.
Spains vice consul in Brussels, Rosario Bernal. BERNARDO PEREZ

Early on the morning of Tuesday, March 22, the Spanish consul general in Brussels, who was on vacation in Spain, called his deputy. Have you seen what happened? There have been explosions at Zaventem airport. Rosario Bernal, a 47-year-old from Seville with two decades of experience as a diplomat under her belt, read the latest news on the internet and took the metro to get straight to the Spanish consulate, located on Ducale street in the middle of the Belgian capital.

The non-stop calls to her cellphone from the headquarters of the Foreign Ministry in Madrid forced her to get off the train at Schuman station to be able to answer them. She got back on to the first metro train that came past  the very train that was about to be attacked by another suicide bomber.

We stopped at Maalbeek station, and after we had barely traveled a few meters, we heard an explosion, she explains. The carriage was buffeted around, I hit my back against the door and the train stopped. The lights went out, there was a really strong smell of burning and everywhere was full of smoke. Right from the start I knew that it was an attack, Bernal says.

The lights went out, there was a really strong smell of burning and everywhere was full of smoke. Right from the start I knew that it was an attack Rosario Bernal

A colleague from the consulate heard the sound of the explosion on Rosarios cellphone while the two were in the middle of talking about how they could organize support for Spaniards affected by the airport attack.

That was a bomb, she told her colleague. I remember that I told her to call the consul general, that she should tell the ministry that there had been a new attack and that I had been inside the train, because at that moment, as well as fearing that there might be another explosion, you also ask yourself, will I be able to get out or not? I didnt know what was going to happen, and I wanted, at least, for them to know where I was.

Rosario was in the first carriage of the train. Via a window, which had been blown out by the bomb blast, she was able to jump down on to the platform. There were screams to start with, and I think that I also screamed from the shock, but the truth is that people stayed calm and began to file out in a disciplined manner. What most shocked me when I stepped on to the platform was the silence, which was only broken by faint moaning.

Rosario began to climb the stairs toward the street. She didnt know which way to go. She was moving in the dark, trying to avoid the missing steps on the staircase. On the first floor she tripped over a man whose face was bleeding. He asked me if he was injured. I told him he was. He asked me for help We took each others arms and we felt our way along, eventually managing to get out. Once on the street she saw some of the wounded, but the police and the ambulance crews had yet to arrive.

Rosario Bernal (in hat) leaves the metro carriage. Facebook Samla E Leo

The first thing that you feel is a sense of guilt: I got out of there as fast as I could and I probably didnt think about helping those who were still down there and who couldnt get out, she explains. But then straight away I realized that I couldnt stay there, that I urgently had to get to the consulate.

Rosario was fine, although she was covered in ash from head to toe. Once at the consulate, she washed her face and began to get her staff together. Someone suggested that she should take a tranquilizer, but she answered saying that it was not the time to be calm, but rather to take action. Work groups were organized, and the ministry was informed of the plans that were underway. Other embassies in Brussels offered their support, and the consulate quickly became a hive of activity. One employee, who was caught up but not injured in the airport attack, returned to the office, her plans to fly to Spain scuppered by the bombs.

Eight phone lines were opened to attend to the families of the victims and friends who were trying to locate their loved ones. Accommodation and alternative routes were also sought for those whose journeys had been cut short by the airport attack. The consulate was open for business until 11pm, while the phone lines were available 24 hours a day. The first moments were difficult, explains Rosario. Cellphones werent working, a number of roads were cut off and it was impossible to get around. Everyone was completely overwhelmed. At least we managed to establish channels of communication, and the efforts of all involved were excellent.

The priority was to locate possible Spanish victims. On Wednesday, the consul general, who had returned to Brussels, visited the nine Spaniards who had been hospitalized. By Saturday there were just three, and fortunately their lives were not in danger. But there were still concerns about whether there were Spaniards among the 31 victims. On Friday their worst fears were confirmed: one of the dead is Jennifer Garcia Scintu, 29, a resident of Dusseldorf (Germany), who had Spanish, Italian and German nationality. She was due to travel to the US with her German husband when she was caught in the attacks. He was seriously injured in the bombing.

English version by Simon Hunter.
The Russian submarine Novorossiysk called into the port of Ceuta in August of last year. Ceutaactualidad.com

Eleven members of the European Parliament have complained to the EUs foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, about the Russian navys frequent stopovers in the Spanish north African exclave of Ceuta.

The delegation of MEPs, which includes Catalan politician Ramon Tremosa and representatives from Poland and the Baltic countries, asked Mogherini if she was aware that these naval operations were key to maintaining the Russian armys positions in Ukraine.

They also wondered whether it constituted a violation of EU sanctions against Moscow over its annexation of Crimea.

The Russian embassy in Madrid has expressed surprise at the controversy

Since 2011, over 50 Russian warships have stopped in Ceuta, one of two Spanish cities located on the African mainland, to resupply and give their crews a rest.

The vessels have included submarines, frigates, destroyers, amphibious assault ships and auxiliary vessels.

The frequency with which Russian navy ships call into the port  at least 10 times a year  have turned the Spanish exclave into the main base of the Russian fleet in the western Mediterranean.

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The Russian army has an official base in Tartus (Syria), although its ships have also docked in Maltese and Greek ports.

These visits are authorized on a case-by-case basis by a specialized department in the Spanish Foreign Ministry. Diplomatic sources said they do not violate the EU sanction regime, and that Spain has received no protests from EU or NATO allies over this policy, which is implemented with complete transparency.

The same sources said that the stops involve routine maritime activities and never military activity.

The stops, which typically last around three days, also represent added revenue for the city

The stops, which typically last around three days, also represent added revenue for a city that ranks at the bottom of Spanish regions for per capita income. According to the Ceuta Port Authority, around 2,300 Russian sailors spent leave in the city in 2014, changing around 450 of foreign currency each to spend locally during their free time.

That adds up to over 1 million a year, with most of it going on local dining and shopping. To this must be added the income from resupplying. An amphibious ship needs around 300 tons of diesel fuel and 150 tons of water; an oil tanker might need as much as 3,750 tons of fuel.

The Russian embassy in Madrid expressed surprise at the fact that such a common practice as calling into foreign ports could be the subject of controversy.

They take place after requesting permission in full compliance with international and domestic legislation, said an embassy spokesman. Their goal is to allow crews to rest and ships to restock with food and water. Besides, these stops are beneficial for the ports and cities that welcome them.

The MEPs parliamentary question was triggered by the Heritage Foundation, a conservative US think tank with ties to the Margaret Thatcher Center for Freedom. The foundation is a staunch defender of the British presence in Gibraltar, and says that Spains policy of allowing the Russian navy to use Ceuta is hypocritical in relation to its reluctance to allow NATO to make direct visits between Gibraltar and Spanish ports.

The US government should make it clear at the highest levels that it views any support of the Russian navy as completely unacceptable in light of Russian aggression, adds a Heritage policy brief.

Conservative think tanks claim the Russian ships could be spying on Gibraltar. JORGE GUERRERO (AFP)

Contesting the claim that Russian ships could be spying on Gibraltar, Spanish experts note that Ceuta has rather become a unrivaled observatory for analyzing the state of the Russian fleet. One of the latest vessels to stop here, in August of last year, was the Novorossiysk, a third-generation submarine that is considered nearly impossible to detect.

It is also likely no coincidence that the Russian ships are stopping off in a city that is contested by Morocco, rather than a mainland port.

Although the decision is apparently technical and economic, there are clear political overtones. The Spanish government is scrupulously complying with the EU sanctions, but also trying to maintain the best possible relations with Russia. The latest demonstration of this was Russias invitation, extended to Spain, to participate in the international group mediating in the Syrian war.

English version by Susana Urra.
The dispute between Mexican ex-president Vicente Fox and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump has grown after the former published a video through his Centro Fox association in which he questions the real estate moguls economic policies, saying they would only harm American citizens, not Latino immigrants.

Running a business does not mean having the leadership to conduct a nation, says Fox, who himself became Mexican president in 2000 after serving as the head of Coca-Colas Latin America division.

In the video, titled Donald Trump confronted by President Vicente Fox, Fox says Trumps campaign proposals repeat the policies of former US President Herbert Hoover under whose administration (1929-33) the country suffered the Great Depression, the worst economic crisis in its history. By placing restrictions on immigration and imports, Fox says Trump would be isolating the United States from global markets and causing a similar economic meltdown.

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And because the New York businessman-turned-politician is also promising to raise taxes, Fox said articles that Americans purchase, such as cars, would cost more and thus they would be the ones who end up paying for the wall along the US-Mexican border that Trump is proposing.

I am not paying for that fucking wall and you should not be paying either, Fox says.

I am not paying for that wall and you should not be paying either Former Mexican President Vicente Fox

The former Mexican president also asks what would happen if Latino immigrants stopped working in the United States. Who is going to collect apples in Washington? To harvest vegetables in California? To nurse the elderly and the retired?

His message was reminiscent of a speech he gave in 2005 when he was still in office in which he said Mexicans in the United States did jobs not even blacks want to do.

Fox says he feels personally offended by this false prophet Trump, whom he dubbed ignorant and egomaniacal.

English version by Dyane Jean Francois
Opinion: Some sects are carrying out political orders (video)

There are about 67 religious organizations registered in Armenia. Their activities have been the chief concern of many circles in Armenia. They are splitting our religion. Some of these organizations are carrying out political orders. Our Church needs to be strengthened; it needs to be more active. There are young people who refuse to serve in the army because of their belief. These are all problems that need solution, Norayr Badalyan, Head of the Armenian National Movement, said on March 28. Sevan Aghajanyan, Chairman of the Front for Preservation of National Values NGO, added, in turn, that state agencies do not pay attention to the activities of religious organizations. The corresponding law needs to be reviewed and amended, he said. Both men recently tried to prevent public propaganda of different religious organizations in different parts of Yerevan. Some of them, specifically, Jehovah's Witnesses, are putting stands in various parks and openly preaching their beliefs about God, Jesus, the Bible and the future. Several times, we have forcibly taken away their booklets and stopped them from preaching. But our organization is very small and we cannot do everything alone, Sevan Aghajanyan said reminding that recently a girl made her boyfriend to join her sect to be able to marry her.
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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

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

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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

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The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces

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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 Assembly of America requests $15 Million for refugees forced to flee Genocide by ISIS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Yesterday, the Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) Executive Director Bryan Ardouny submitted testimony to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs where he outlined nine key policy priorities for the Armenian American community in Fiscal Year (FY) 2017. Given Azerbaijan's blatant ceasefire violations, the Assembly called upon the United States to "directly condemn such actions and avoid engaging in false equivalency between the aggressor and those defending themselves." The Assembly urged that Section 907 of the FREEDOM Support Act be fully enforced. "Azerbaijan's violations skyrocketed to over 30,000 in 2015, and include the inexplicable targeting of a kindergarten in Armenia's Tavush border region and other civilian areas, not to mention the continual acts of vandalism, such as destroying centuries-old Armenian cemeteries noted for their historic monuments," Ardouny points out in his testimony. In addition, "the Assembly urges the cessation of U.S. military assistance to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan does not need it, and America cannot afford it." The Assembly testimony also laid out eight additional policy goals and specifically asks for: not less than $40 million in U.S. assistance to Armenia; not less than $5 million to Nagorno Karabakh, especially for the Lady Cox Rehabilitation Center; advancing the Nagorno Karabakh peace process; support to Christian minorities at risk in the Middle East; U.S. military assistance to Armenia; assistance to the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of Georgia; regional energy security; and reaffirmation of the U.S. record on the Armenian Genocide. The destruction of the Armenian heritage of the region by Azerbaijan and the armed violations of the ceasefire parallel the crimes committed by ISIS in Iraq and Syria, which Secretary of State John Kerry confirmed constitute genocide against Christians and minorities, including Armenians. In light of this, "the Assembly also urge[d] enhanced assistance to Christian and other minority communities at risk in the Middle East, with a particular focus of concern regarding the continued unrest in Syria, particularly the battleground city of Aleppo where Armenian churches and other institutions have come under attack." The Administration's proposed budget envisions nearly $3 billion for migration and refugee assistance. The Assembly recommended that $15 million be allocated for Armenia, which according to The Economist has taken on the third largest number of refugees in Europe as a proportion of its population. "As a host country, Armenia has been absolutely exemplary in terms of the ratio of welcomed Syrian-Armenian refugees to the number of native inhabitants," said United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees (UNHCR) Representative in Armenia Christoph Bierwirth. Armenia hosts six Syrian refugees per 1,000 nationals - a ratio much higher than many European countries or the U.S., an especially noteworthy effort given the country's economic circumstance. Earlier this week, Armenian Caucus Co-Chairs, Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Robert Dold (R-IL), spearheaded an Assembly-backed letter to the Subcommittee regarding assistance to Armenia and Karabakh. The letter, which was signed by 33 U.S. Representatives, outlined key priorities regarding U.S.-Armenia/U.S.-Karabakh relations. In addition to the testimony, the Assembly relayed a message of condolence for the recent attacks in Brussels. "The Armenian Assembly stands in solidarity with the people of Belgium and expresses its deepest sympathies to the victims and families of the latest terrorist attacks, which serves as a painful reminder of all those lost in other senseless acts of terror," Ardouny stated. The full Assembly testimony for FY 2017 is available here
President Truong Tan Sang and Thai Ambassador Manopchai Vongphakdi. (Source: VNA)

Thai Ambassador Manopchai Vongphakdi pledged to do his utmost to tighten relations between the two countries.



Indonesian Ambassador Ibnu Hadi S.E.M. E.C expressed hope to receive support from the Government, ministries and sectors of Vietnam to raise the bilateral trade value between Vietnam and Indonesia to USD10 billion by 2018.



Filippino Ambassador Noel Eugene Eusebio M. Servigon said he will contribute to realise the cooperation agreements between Vietnam and the Philippines, not only in national defence, but also in economics, cultures, and particularly the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the nations diplomatic ties.



Coming back to Vietnam after 20 years, Malaysian Ambassador Mohd Zamruni Bin Khalid committed to work to boost the economic, trade and investment relations between the two nations.



For his part, the State President hailed the fruitful and effective cooperation mechanisms between Vietnam and Thailand, adding the two nations need to work together more closely to promote their roles in ASEAN and the Mekong sub-region.



President Sang expressed his belief that Indonesia will continue its active contribution to building the ASEAN Community and hoped that the country will invest more in Vietnam.



He also called on the country to cooperate with Vietnam in settling disputes in the East Sea, in accordance with international law.



The President suggested Vietnam and the Philippines foster their cooperation not only in the ASEAN bloc but also in international forums.



He attached significance to the establishment of the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Malaysia, saying that it will contribute to regional development, and to the two countries bilateral relations at international and regional forums.



Mr Truong Tan Sang expressed hope that the trade value between Vietnam and Malaysia will reach USD20 billion by 2020.



He also called for continuing the cooperation in labor and national defence./.
Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh and his Chinese counterpart Sen. Lieut. Gen. Chang Wanquan (Source: VNA)



The two ministers stressed that the two sides will continue to handle the issue through peaceful and friendly dialogues and on the basis of regulations and mechanisms defined by international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS).



They agreed the two sides will exert all-out efforts to seek fundamental and long-term solutions acceptable to both sides, seriously abide by common agreements and perceptions reached by the two countries high-ranking leaders, strictly observe the principles and spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and work towards a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Vietnam and China will work to turn the East Sea into a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation, contributing to developing the bilateral comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and maintaining regional peace and stability, they said.

The two defence ministers shared the view that the two armies should keep calm, restrain themselves, well control the situation, avoid conflicts and not threaten to use force in order to protect peace, stability, collaboration and the interests of the two countries, the region and the world as a whole.

At the same time, the two sides will strengthen the bilateral affiliation in a pragmatic, effective, stable and sustainable fashion, thus making defence cooperation one of the pillars of the traditional solidarity and friendship between the two countries.

Minister Phung Quang Thanh emphasized that the visit of Minister Chang Wanquan from March 26th-28th offers a good opportunity for the two defence ministries to discuss relevant issues in realising the instruction of the two countries leaders, as well as to implement the bilateral agreement on defence collaboration, towards enhancing political trust and promote defence ties between the two countries.

On this occasion, the two ministers witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the two defence ministries in the field of UN peace-keeping missions.

As part of his visit, Minister Chang Wanquan held a meeting with General Ngo Xuan Lich, Chief of the General Department of Politics of the Vietnam People's Army, also on March 27th./.
As many as 200 people joined the event, co-organized by the Associations of Vietnamese people, Vietnamese Women and Vietnamese students in the Republic of Korea.

Mr Tran Hai Linh, Head of the Association of Vietnamese Communities in the Republic of Korea, said: We, the community of Vietnamese people living, studying and working in the Republic of Korea as well as all Vietnamese around the world, especially those who love peace and justice, are here today to demonstrate our great solidarity, firmly opposing recent Chinese activities which violate Vietnams sovereignty over sea and islands.

Photo: VNA

Mr Tran Hai Linh (middle) at the event

Photo: VNA

Photo: VNA

Photo: VNA

Reading Common Declaration (Photo: VNA)

Photo: VNA

Photo: VNA

Photo: VNA

Participants also sent a Common Declaration (Vietnamese, English, Korean and Chinese versions) of the Association of Vietnamese Communities in the Republic of Korea to the Chinese Embassy in the Republic of Korea, requesting the Chinese administration to immediately stop illegal activities in the East Sea, strictly respect international laws and other related bilateral agreements between the two nations.

A wide range of participants, from intellectuals, students, laborers, to Korean-Vietnamese families and Korean people who love peace, had gathered in the two-hour long protest, displaying large banners proclaiming Paracel islands and Spratly islands belong to Vietnam and China, stop militarization in the East Vietnam sea.

Vietnamese flags and their red uniforms covered a corner of Seoul Central Post Office.

This is the second protest run by the Association of Vietnamese Communities in the Republic of Korea. Earlier, in May 2014, the Association led three protests in Seoul, Busan and Gwangju cities to protest Chinas illegal deployment of a giant oil rig to Vietnamese waters in the East Vietnam Sea./.
Local authority representatives, citizens, Canon Vietnam Co., Ltd, 100 volunteer members of Canon volunteer network, and 100 young students in Nhu Thanh district attended the event.

The project in Ben En National Park not only contributes to protect low belt forest ecosystems, but also raises young peoples awareness of environmental protection through practical planting activities. This is the sixth year that the planting forest cooperation project of Canon Vietnam is deployed in Ben En National Park, with the total area of newly planted forest growing to 110 hectares.

Photo: ATP

Mr. Shunji Sawa, General Director of Canon Vietnam, said: "Through this program, I hope that the students, Ho Chi Minh unionists, and Vietnam youth in general will raise their awareness of environmental protection and afforestation to create Green-lungs for our Earth. The Earth is what we depend on for life, so lets protect the Earth as we do our lives. This will be the most valuable gift we can transfer to the next generation. Let's try together for the greater development of Vietnam.

Apart from tree planting, the Japanese Company hosted a photo exhibition of environmental protection activities, and an activity of leaving fingerprints as a commitment to environmental protection and to raise awareness for all participants.

With the motto towards a Green - Clean - Beautiful environment and social sustainable development, through social activities such as: Planting "For a Green Vietnam", environment protection propaganda, and environmental clean-up in response to Worldwide Environment Day, the Company has contributed significantly to making the environment cleaner and enhancing peoples awareness of keeping and working together to protect the environment.

Built up since 2010, the For a green Vietnam project so far has deployed new planting of 210 hectares of protected forest in the Northern provinces./.
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
Four Ukrainian military servicemen have been injured in the special operation zone in eastern Ukraine in the past 24 hours, Ukrainian presidential administration spokesman for Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) issues Andriy Lysenko said on Sunday.

"The past 24 hours saw none of our soldiers killed and four injured as a result of the hostilities. A Ukrainian volunteer medic was also injured as a result of shelling near Avdiyivka," he said at a briefing in Kyiv on Sunday.

In the Luhansk area, the enemy opened fire on the village of Nyzhnioteple from the right bank of the Siverskyi Donets, Lysenko said.

In the Donetsk area, on a part of the Zaitseve-Maiorsk front, the enemy used 122 millimeter howitzers, having launched 160 shells. The shelling was most intense between 05:00 and 08:00 in the morning.

The most difficult situation remains near Avdiyivka, Lysenko said. "The ATO forces are holding the occupied positions and delivering effective fire in response," he said.

In all, 43 shell attacks have been launched in the Donetsk area in the past 24 hours, with one in three of them involving heavy weapons, he said.

In the Mariupol sector, the enemy violated the ceasefire four times: a sniper operated in Maryinka and an 82 millimeter mortar launcher was used in Shyrokyne. The adversary also opened fire in Talakivka, the presidential spokesperson said.
Finance Minister of Ukraine Natalie Jaresko has discussed with EU Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muiznieks the ways to provide a financial aid to internally displaced persons along with the social protection of the citizens living in certain districts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and Crimea.

"Yesterday I met EU Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muiznieks. We discussed the pressing issues related to the financial aid to internally displaced persons and social protection of the persons, who now live in the occupied Donbas and Crimea," Jaresko wrote on her Facebook account on Saturday.
Ukrainian Parliament Speaker Volodymyr Groysman says he is ready to be responsible for the formation of a new government if he has an opportunity to use the support of the coalition in parliament and create the core of the government from reformists.

"I've seen the accumulation of a critical number of problems we'll have to tackle. And I think that the political forces should aware this  [we need to] find a way out of the situation we're in," he said.

Groysman says he has a clear vision which is based on three positions: firstly, it's an action plan, which "must bring the country out of such a situation;" secondly, there should be a strategy of reform, i.e. "the strategic vision of what economic model needs to be built, thirdly, the quality of administration.

"I'm sure should I be given an opportunity to use the support of the real, reformist coalition  if they allow the creation of the core of the government from those people who are ready to conduct real, sincere and transparent reforms, I'm ready to take responsibility," Groysman said in his video address posted on the Facebook page on Monday.

He also says that the current "political week is a key one" for finding the way out of the crisis.
Donbas militants on Sunday attacked Ukrainian positions 50 times, including with 120-millimeter mortars prohibited by the Minsk agreements, according to the press center of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) headquarters.

"Near Novotroyitske, they used 120-millimeter mortars and anti-tank missile systems," the press center said in an update posted on its Facebook page on Monday morning.

Also, in the Mariupol area, militants fired grenades, machineguns and small arms against Ukrainian troops near Maryinka, Shyrokyne and Taramchuk, the press center said.

In addition, 120- and 82-millimeter mortars were fired 15 times against Ukrainian positions near Avdiyivka. Also, "grenade launchers, large-caliber machineguns and small arms were used [there] repeatedly."

The Ukrainian armed forces on Sunday near Avdiyivka foiled an attempt to storm their positions by returning fire and forcing a sabotage and reconnaissance group to retreat.

In the Donetsk zone, militants shelled Ukrainian positions near the Butivka mine, Luhanske, Pisky, Opytne, and Zaitseve.

Military spokesmen said Ukrainian armed forces returned fire several times.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko is visiting Donetsk region, presidential press secretary Svyatoslav Tsegolko has said.

"The president is visiting Donetsk region," Tsegolko wrote on Twitter on Monday.

Ukraine's NGO Donetsk Institute of Information reported that the Ukrainian-controlled town of Kramatorsk is one of the president's destinations. New ambulance vehicles, which Poroshenko is planned to present to the local medical service, were brought to Kramatorsk from Mariupol.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko position on Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin's dismissal remains unchanged  Poroshenko supports Shokin leaving the post, presidential envoy in parliament Stepan Kubiv said.

"The President of Ukraine supports the position and submitted a package of documents on February 22 consenting to the dismissal by the President of Ukraine of the Prosecutor General, in keeping with Shokin's letter of resignation  No. 4122," Kubiv said at a meeting in parliament in Kyiv on Monday.
The Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine says that the bill on asset seizure does not have sufficient guarantees to protect the right to ownership, which would put it in line with EU standards, the Yevropeiska Pravda online newspaper reported.

This is said in the Delegation's comment to the Yevropeiska Pravda on bill No. 4057 on amendments to the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine allowing criminal assets and income on their basis to be seized and transferred to the national budget before court trial. The bill was passed the first reading and could be considered in the second reading during the current plenary week.

"Bill No. 4057 on seizure does not contain sufficient guarantees to protect the right of ownership, which would meet EU standards. It is most likely could be seen as a hasty step towards the introduction of more stringent and intrusive tools that do not provide ... necessary protection of the right to a fair trial, protection of property rights and needed enhanced stability of property relations," the Delegation said..

The Delegation says that the initiatives of pre-trial confiscation must necessarily "go hand in hand" with increased guarantees to respectable owners, which would prevent abuses of special confiscation tools, and the said bill offers no such guarantees.

According to the Delegation, in recent months the Ukrainian parliament adopted legislation on special confiscation (bills No. 2540a, 2541a, 3040), "which were regarded by EU experts as movement towards the right balance" and "were among the obligations the Ukrainian authorities undertook in the context of the action plan on visa liberalization."

The comment says that the adoption of this draft law violates the obligations under the action plan on visa liberalization. At the same time, the Delegation refrained from giving forecasts for the EU's action in the case of the adoption of the No. 4057 bill.

The bill was drawn up by MPs Yuriy Beresa, Serhiy Pashynsky, Andriy Teteriv and Tetiana Chornovol (the People's Front), and by Ivan Vynnyk and Artur Herasymov (the Bloc of Petro Poroshenko).

The lawmakers included an amendment put forth by MP from the Samopomich parliamentary faction Olena Sotnyk, stipulating that before the seizure there should be proof that the assets  property, money securities, etc.  were transferred by a suspect to third entities in a criminal way. Thus, it will establish a group of third persons the assets of whom could be taken away from, Sotnyk said.

Parliament Speaker Volodymyr Groysman said that an ad hoc group would be set up to finalize the bill for a second reading. The document will undergo the complete legislative procedure at the Verkhovna Rada.

Under the bill, returned to government revenue should be assets in such criminal cases as misappropriation, embezzlement, seizure through abuse of office (Article 191 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine), the creation of a criminal organization (Article 255 of the Criminal Code), acceptance of an offer or receipt of undue benefit by an official.

It concerns such assets are money, foreign currency, state bonds, treasury notes, precious metals, gems, including those on bank accounts or stored at banks.

What is more, income from such assets is also subject to seizure.

The bill says that the assets will be converted to government revenue if they are revealed during a pre-trial investigation or their holder has not been identified, or if they are owned by a suspect or third persons who have received the assets from the suspect.

The author of the bill, MP Ivan Vynnyk from the Petro Poroshenko Bloc parliamentary faction rebuffed concerns that the legislation may introduce presumption of guilt and a suspect would have to prove that the assets were acquired in a legal way.

"This has been resolved. Now prosecutors should establish in their motion that the suspect obtained the assets unlawfully," he announced this in parliament after the wording of the bill had been agreed.

Under the bill, the assets are subject to return to the state before a court announces its verdict if a suspect is at large or evades criminal liability, being wanted for more than six months.

The assets are also subject to return to the state if a criminal case has been closed after a suspect's death (Clauses 5 and 8 of Part 1 of Article 284 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine).

The bill stipulates the asset return procedure in keeping with which prosecutors should submit their motions and courts should consider them.

The holders of the assets will be able to appeal against the seizure within 12 months and get them back if they have proven that the funds were received in a legal way.

Should the bill be passed in a second reading, it will become effective on the following day after its publication and will be in force for the next two years.
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has appointed commander of the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) Serhiy Popko as Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, presidential press secretary Svyatoslav Tsegolko has said..

"The president in the ATO zone has appointed ATO chief Serhiy Popko as Commander of the Ground Forces," he tweeted on Monday.

Prior to the appointment, Lieutenant-General Popko had served as ATO commander, being the Defense Ministry's representative in the headquarters of the Anti-Terrorist Centre.

As reported earlier, Poroshenko on Monday is visiting Donetsk region, where he is to hear a report on the situation at the front line in Donbas.
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has provided Ukraine's State Fiscal Service with equipment to monitor imports of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) to Ukraine, State Fiscal Service Head Roman Nasirov told reporters last week.

Nasirov and UNDP Country Director for Ukraine Janthomas Hiemstra signed a memorandum of understanding in Kyiv on March 25 as part of the Initial Implementation of Accelerated Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) Phase-Out in the Countries with Economy in Transition (CEIT) Region.

The customs offices will obtain specialized equipment to determine contents and structure of substances imported to Ukraine. This would help monitoring the restrictions on imports of ODS to Ukraine. Now it is permitted to import no more than 270 tonnes of ODS to the country.

The State Fiscal Service has received 25 gas analyzers worth $207,500. The equipment will be sent to all customs divisions and customs checkpoints at ports. Laboratories of the State Fiscal Service in Kyiv and Odesa soon will be equipped to determine chemical structure of gases. The cost of the equipment is $223,800.

The Cabinet of Ministers in resolution No. 1176 dated December 30, 2015 approved a list of ODS and goods exports and imports of which is subject to licensi
The Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, will consider a range of financial and economic issues, including those concerning coal production and farming, on Thursday, March 31, Parliament Speaker Volodymyr Groysman said.

"On Thursday, there will be a financial and economic day, in particular, we'll decide on coalminers. We've got many issues accumulated in the coal production sector, which haven't been settled for years, unfortunately," he said in parliament on Monday.

In his words, lawmakers will also address the issues of defense and support of farmers.

"Large agribusinesses fell good, while farmers are about to cease to exist, as there is a number of issues to be decided. The same situation is with coalminers," he said.
Funds for the additional financing of the Interior Ministry in the amount of UAH 3 billion should come from funds confiscated from the entourage of disgraced former ex-President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych, Prime Minister Arseniy Yatseniuk has stated.

"On the part of the government we need to continue financing the reform of the National Police, the Armed Forces, and in general every reform from the health care sector to education. The Interior Minister appealed to the government saying it is necessary to increase funding for the National Police by UAH 3 billion to complete the reform," Yatseniuk said during the swearing of the police in Boryspil.

According to him, the government has found a source of financing  the confiscated funds arrested a year ago of officials under former president Yanukovych.

"We expect the parliament to adopt the necessary legislation, the judicial and law enforcement systems not to just arrest the funds as we have already done, but also confiscate the money, transfer it to the budget and use for national security and defense, and additional financing for the National Police," the prime minister said.
Ukraine's Ministry of Justice has refuted the statement of former Minister of Justice Olena Lukash on recovering court costs from Ukraine in favor of Yanukovych and his entourage.

"There are no decisions of the European Court about the recovery of at least a penny, all the more UAH 6.3 million, in favor of Yanukovych and his entourage from Ukraine, as well as non-property decisions against Ukraine for the benefit of the specified persons," the ministry's press service said.

Anyone can get acquainted with the decisions of the EU Court of Justice via visiting the official website, on which all the judicial decisions are posted, the press service said.

"The information spread by a representative of the power during Yanukovych's presidency, whose involvement in crimes against participants in the Revolution of Dignity is being studied, is nothing more than the embodiment of the desire of the fugitive president's lawyer and Lukash's sick imagination," reads the statement.
Petro Poroshenko Bloc MP, head of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People, Refat Chubarov has stated of the intention to set principles of the Crimean autonomy legislatively.

"There are two bills, in fact, already on the agenda of the new government, which will be elected in the coming days in Kyiv. They concern the status of the Crimean Tatar people in Ukraine, and also the need to make additions and changes to the 10th Section of the Ukrainian Constitution, which is called 'The Autonomous Republic of Crimea.' There we intend to lay the principles of the Crimean Autonomy which is created on the basis of the right of indigenous peoples to self-determination," Poroshenko Bloc press service quoted Chubarov as saying on Monday.

The Mejlis leader also said he was preparing to "de-occupy" Crimea.
An international peacekeeping contingent is needed to ensure security in the armed conflict area in Donbas, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said.

"We need an international contingent, which will ensure security there during the withdrawal [of troops] and the transfer of power," he said, in the talks with residents in the city of Mykolaivka, in Donetsk region on Monday.

The president said that Ukraine's sovereignty can be restored on the whole territory of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, elections could be held there, but he called for the provision of the necessary conditions to do so.

"Take away your 'Plotnitskys', take away your 'Zakharchenkos', take away your parachutists, whom you have brought [here], and we will restore Ukraine's sovereignty. Please, take away Russian troops from that territory, take away the tanks, which you have brought there. Give them the opportunity to hold elections calmly, let people elect the authorities, and I, as the Ukrainian president will work with those, who will be elected by people," Poroshenko said.

As was reported on Monday, the Ukrainian president is on a working trip in Donetsk region, where he has already attended to a report about the situation on the front.
U.S. Ambassador Mark Lippert Shoots Down Donald Trump's Assertion That Support For South Korea Is A One-Way Street

Frontrunner for the republican nomination for president and former host of "The Apprentice" Donald Trump may think the US is getting a bad deal from South Korea regarding support for the longtime ally's national defense program. But the U.S. Ambassador for the region, Mark Lippert, isn't buying it.

"We feel very good about the resource sharing that we and the Republic of Korea do together as an alliance, it is remarkable," Lippert told the room of American Chamber of Commerce in Korea members on Monday, according to the Yonghap News Agency.

Not referencing Trump by name, the South Korean ambassador cited his time at the Pentagon to pointedly shoot down the Donald's claims.

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"You get a sense of the alliances and how much and who contributes what," Lippert said. "Korea does very well in terms of its contribution."

In what has been a recurring theme throughout his 2016 presidential bid, Trump told the Washington Post on March 21 that the US-South Korea deal is not equally beneficial to both parties.

"South Korea is very rich, great industrial country and yet we're not reimbursed fairly for what we do," Trump said.

"We're constantly sending our ships, sending our planes, doing our war games. We're reimbursed a fraction of what this is all costing."

Trump even compared the country to a deadbeat, saying, "personally, I don't think so," when asked if the US benefits at all from the alliance.

"I think we were a very powerful, very wealthy country and we are a poor country now," Trump said. "We're a debtor nation."

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These mesmerising aerial photos of Californias Death Valley are offering a rare birds-eye view of a desert that has been deemed the hottest place on earth and the driest in North America.

The overhead snaps show the spectacular Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America with an elevation of 282ft below sea level.

The images were taken by San Francisco-based photographer and pilot Jassen Todorov as he flew over the unforgiving land.

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes were used as a filming location for Star Wars, replicating the deserts of the planet Tatooine in Star Wars.

Ubehebe Crater, a volcanic depression, is 600ft deep and half a mile wide, and is estimated to be between 2,000 and 7,000 years old.

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America with an elevation of 282ft below sea level (pictured: Amargosa River)

His incredible shots show the Amargosa River cutting through Badwater Basin and the astonishing depth of the volcanic Ubehebe Crater.

The crater is 600ft deep and half a mile wide, and is estimated to be more than 2,000 years old.

With hypnotic ridges, the barren Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes were used as a filming location for the original Star Wars, replicating the deserts of the planet Tatooine in Star Wars.

Despite its extreme climate, the stunning Death Valley National Park lures thousands of hikers, campers, and cyclists every year.

The Amargosa River is nearly 200 miles long, cutting through eastern California, including Badwater Basin, and southern Nevada.

Badwater Basin, nearly eight miles long and five miles wide, occasionally floods when Death Valley is hit by severe thunderstorms.

Photographer and pilot Jassen Todorov snapped this mesmerising shot of Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes as he flew overhead.

Todorov said the national park is one of his favourite destinations to photograph thanks to its 'great contrast of scenery'.

Todorov, a 40-year-old professor of music, said: The Death Valley National Park is one of my favourite destinations to visit as there is always such a great contrast of scenery  snowy mountains with valleys and dunes as well.

It's a hard place to be able to shoot as it is so hot  the hottest place in North America  and is always exciting to be able to visit.

I love to explore the world and the valley is one of the best places to do so as it has so much diversity.

Despite its extreme climate, the stunning Death Valley National Park lures thousands of hikers, campers, and cyclists every year.

Death Valley holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded (57C), at Furnace Creek in July 1913 (pictured: Badwater Basin)

Summer temperatures often top 49C in the shade with overnight lows dipping to around 35C, said the National Park Service.

The history of the area is amazing as well. Human civilisation dates back 10,000 years in the valley and the Ubehebe Crater is between 2,000 and 7,000 years old itself.

Death Valley also holds the record for the highest air temperature ever recorded (57C), at Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913.

Summer temperatures often top 49C in the shade with overnight lows dipping to around 35C, said the National Park Service.
President Xi jinping meets Czech President Milos Zeman in Beijing on Sept 4, 2015. Yao Dawei / Xinhua

President Xi Jinping's historic visit to the Czech Republic, which starts on Monday, is expected to "renew and energize" bilateral ties, with more than 20 documents on cooperation due to be signed.

The 49-hour trip will be the first state visit by a Chinese president either to the Czech Republic or the former Czechoslovakia in 67 years  since the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Xi is scheduled to meet with Czech President Milos Zeman and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka.

He will also witness the signing of cooperation documents, attend a news conference, talk with Czech Senate Chairman Milan Stech and Chamber of Deputies Chairman Jan Hamacek, and meet with businesspeople.

The Chinese delegation will meet with Zeman at the Lany chateau, west of Prague, where the two presidents will plant a tree, according to the Czech Presidential Office.

Xi will be the first foreign president to be welcomed at the chateau, the country residence of the Czech president.

In an article published in the Pravo daily on Saturday, Xi called for joint work "to renew and energize the development of China-Czech ties".

This would usher in a "bright new era" for cooperation between China and countries in Central and Eastern Europe and also for relations between China and the European Union, the article said.

"As people say in China, a tree can grow tall only when its roots are strong. China and the Czech Republic should consider upgrading the bilateral relationship in due course," Xi said in the article.

The release of a joint declaration on a strategic partnership is expected to be the main outcome of the visit. A number of documents on cooperation in investment, finance, aviation and healthcare are expected to be signed. Zeman has said that he expects Chinese investment of 45 billion crowns ($1.84 billion).

The Czech News Agency reported that the joint declaration will include enhancing cooperation on finance, including the Czech Republic's interest in becoming a center for Chinese financial institutions in the region.

Vaclav Klaus, a former president of the Czech Republic, said Xi's visit carries "historic meaning" and shows how seriously the two countries want to develop their relationship.

"Now it is up to us to keep closer ties with China," he said.

In an article published on its website early this month, Radio Prague said the Czech Republic is "looking to finally get a bigger slice of the Chinese investment cake after long lagging behind neighbors such as Poland and Hungary".

Ma Keqing, the Chinese ambassador to the Czech Republic, said Xi's visit has attracted a great deal of attention in the Czech Republic and elsewhere in Europe.

The ambassador said China is willing to deepen financial cooperation, encourage the use of both nations' currencies in trade and investment, and hold talks on the feasibility of setting up a renminbi settlement mechanism in Prague.

China is the Czech Republic's second-biggest trading partner, next only to the European Union, while the Czech Republic is China's second-biggest trading partner in Central and Eastern Europe. The trade volume topped $11 billion last year.

In November, China and the Czech Republic signed a memorandum of understanding on jointly building the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative. It was the first such document signed between China and a Central European country.
Pakistani people gather at the blast site in eastern Pakistan's Lahore, March 27, 2016. At least 63 people including women and kids were killed and over 306 others injured when a suicide bomber hit a public park in Lahore on Sunday evening, officials said. (Xinhua/Jamil Ahmed)

ISLAMABAD, March 20 (X-- At least 69 people including a large number of women and kids were killed and over 300 others injured when a suicide bomber hit a public park in Pakistan's east Lahore city on Sunday evening, officials said.

Deputy Coordination Officer Lahore, Captain Usman, said that the killed people included 23 kids whereas 56 injured children were shifted to various hospitals of the city.

Haider Ashraf, the Deputy Inspector General Police, said that the suicide bomber blew himself up in the parking stand near the gate of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in the Lahore city, the capital of the country's east Punjab province.

He said that the stand was located near the kids' swing area and ticket booth and the bomber chose it to explode himself for targeting a large number of people in which he succeeded.

He said that the park was crowded than usual due to Sunday's holiday and a number minority Christian people was also visiting it to celebrate the Easter festival, when the blast happened.

A Pakistan Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack in Lahore that killed over 60 people and injured over 300 on Sunday.

"We claim responsibility for the attack on the Christians as they were celebrating their religious festival," spokesman for the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jamaat ul Ahrar, Eshansullah Ehsan said.

A wounded middle-aged woman was seen running towards the ambulance carrying a badly injured small girl in her arms, asking rescue teams to sift the kid to the hospital.

"She is my granddaughter, I came to park with her father and mother, but I lost them in the explosion, I don't know whether I will be able to see my son and daughter-in-law again or not," the woman said.

After the explosion there was pool of blood at the blast site and people, mostly women and kids rushing out of the park with blood dribbling from their forehead and limbs.

A cell phone with broken screen was found at the site where the incoming call showed "Mother", but its owner was nowhere to answer it.

Police took the phone into custody and informed the worried mother about the situation.

All the recreational parks in the city were closed after the blast and people were directed to stay at home.

The injured people including a large number of women and kids were shifted to Jinnah Hospital and Sheikh Zaid Hospital where scores of them are said to be in critical condition.

Many of the injured were transported to the hospitals on taxis and auto-rickshaws by volunteers due to a shortage of ambulances.

Personnel from Pakistani army also reached at the blast site to shift the injured people to the hospital.

Hundreds of people arrived hospital to search for their relatives who went missing after the blast, but were stopped by the police at the main gate to avoid overcrowding inside the hospital as there was already not enough space for the blast victims.

The nurses said that they do not have enough beds to facilitate such a large number of injured people and many of the wounded victims were lying on the floor, bathed in blood and crying for medical aid.

Hanif Chanio, a teenager who was stopped at the entrance gate of the hospital by the police, said that his brother took his wife and six kids from a village near Lahore to the park for picnic, but did not reach home after the explosion.

"Please let me go, I have come all the way from my village to search for my brother and his kids, my old father and mother are waiting for them at home, let me see them in the injured, let me see them in the mortuary," Chanio let out a wail while requesting police.

Khwaja Salman Rafique, the adviser to Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, appealed residents to donate blood at the hospital to save the lives of the injured people as scores of them are in critical condition.

The provincial government also provided free rides to those who showed interest in donating blood by calling at the number specified by the officials.

The bomb disposal squad said that the suicide bomber was carrying an estimated eight to 10 kg of explosive materials in his suicide vest.

Personnel from Pakistani army also arrived the park and took its control for investigations.

The army personnel also took part in shifting the injured people to the hospital.

Police found National Identity Card of the suicide bomber near the remains of his body which shows him a resident of Muzaffargarh city of the Punjab province who was born on January 1, 1988.

A heavy contingent of police reached at the bomber's home in Muzaffargarh and arrested 15 people including his two brothers and shifted them to some undisclosed location for investigations.

The government of Punjab announced three-day mourning over the incident whereas the governments in the country's south Sindh and southwest Balochistan province announced one-day mourning.

Both the country's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Mamnoon Hussain condemned the blast and directed hospital administration to provide best possible medical treatment to the injured people.

Sharif, who was scheduled to leave for U.K. Monday, postponed his visit to review the security situation in the country.

The country's army chief also held a high level meeting and directed concerned commanders, Intelligence agencies to commence operations as soon as possible to find linkages and perpetrators of the suicide attack, the Inter-Services Public Relations, the mouthpiece of Pakistani army said.

International community including the U.S., Turkey and India also condemned the blast.

"Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased &prayers with the injured," Modi said in a tweet.
Workers assemble air conditioners at a Haier Group's factory in Zhengzhou, Henan province. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Rising labor costs, global ambitions and need for brands and technology give outbound M&A activity momentum

And so, yet another Chinese company (Midea Group Co Ltd) has agreed to acquire yet another foreign company (the white goods business of Japan's Toshiba Corp), creating a sense of deja vu.

Experts on mergers and acquisitions, or M&A, reckon the March 17 agreement reached by China's leading home appliances maker could eventually lead to a transaction worth more than $1 billion. That would make it the latest, but certainly not the last, in a string of recent overseas M&A deals by Chinese firms.

Toshiba is among the Japanese makers of consumer appliances that are in a financial soup, and in February, a troubled Sharp Corp accepted to be taken over by Taiwan's Foxconn for $6.24 billion.

According to Euromonitor International, both Sharp and Toshiba mirror some consumer-oriented Japanese companies' inability to extricate themselves quickly from a financial quagmire.

Their inability provides opportunities for expansion-minded foreign companies on the prowl.

And for Chinese companies facing other kinds of trouble, like rising labor costs at home and poor visibility globally, nearby Japan appears attractive not only because of its proximity but because the country boasts many well-recognized brands in consumer electronics.

"Midea would like to expand into other regions such as North America, Western Europe and other countries in the Asia Pacific, since consumer appliances' sales volume growth has started to slow down in China," said Euromonitor International in a report.

Midea is seeking premiumisation, something that its products currently lack. Top product quality translates to global acceptance of a brand. Technology is key. Acquiring a company that could bring all those to the table would be a strategic fit.

For Midea, Toshiba is a good match: The latter ticks all the boxes of technology, quality and brand.

The deal comes at a time when rising labor costs in China are hurting companies such as Midea. The advantages that original equipment/design manufacturers, the so-called OEMs and ODMs, enjoyed so far, have been decreasing of late.

Having alternative production plants in countries like Japan that offer a labor-cost advantage would benefit Midea, according to Euromonitor International.

If the deal goes through, Midea can take advantage of Toshiba's existing distribution networks, sales volume share, and a research and development team. That would strengthen Midea's presence in Japan and Southeast Asia where it does not have a strong foothold yet.

According to Euromonitor data, Midea had a 4 percent share of the world consumer appliance market in 2015. It ranked No 2 behind Philips. If it completes the Toshiba deal, their combined volume share will be 5.2 percent, higher than Philips' 5 percent.
The story of Wei Huixiao, a highly intelligent and beautiful woman who gave up her well-paid white-collar job to serve as a military officer on China's first aircraft carrier, has aroused a heated discussion among Chinese netizens.

Wei was born in 1977 in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. After graduating from Nanjing University, Wei served as Secretary to the Senior Vice-President and then as an executive assistant at Huawei Technologies. Her outstanding work at Huawei won her many accolades, but despite her promising career, she wanted to pursue something that would give her more spiritual fulfillment.

After working for four years, she enrolled at Sun Yat-sen University to obtain her master's and PhD in Earth Sciences.

In the midst of her studies, Wei wrote a letter recommending herself for service on China's first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning. "This aircraft carrier is the biggest stage for Chinese naval officers. My dream is simply to be an ordinary crew member, spending my days fighting the wind and waves," she wrote.

Wei's choice surprised many people because, given her rich work experience and academic achievements, she had many opportunities. Some even told her she was crazy, to which she retorted that she knew exactly what she wanted to do and working on an aircraft carrier was it.

Eventually, her wish was granted and Wei became the first female officer on the Liaoning with a PhD.

Wei Huixiao
Two female college students recently dressed themselves in mermaid costumes at a reservoir to raise peoples awareness of sustainable fishing and call for fishing halt in the closed fishing season in Xichuan County of Henan province in central China.

They also freed captive fishes on a boat. All fishing activities are banned from March to June as it is the breeding season for fishes in the reservoir, which is the water source of the central route of the South-to-North Water Diversion project.
A flag-raising ceremony is held to celebrate the Serfs' Emancipation Day in Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, March 28, 2016. In 2009, March 28 was designated as the day to mark the freeing of 1 million people, or 90 percent of the region's population at that time, from the feudal serf system in 1959. (Xinhua/Chogo)

LHASA, March 28 -- Southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region on Monday marked Serfs' Emancipation Day with flag-raising ceremonies and official vows to fight separatism.

Losang Jamcan, chair of Tibet regional government, said in a speech that secessionist activities were doomed to fail.

"The clique of the 14th Dalai Lama has never ceased its attempts to split China. Such activities run counter to the constitution, state system and the interests of all people in Tibet, and are doomed to fail," he said.

The clique can not deny the great achievements Tibet has made under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Losang Jamcan said, or dampen the resolution of all Chinese, including Tibetans, to safeguard national unity.

Tibet can only continue to advance and prosper by following the CPC leadership and the path of socialism, he said.

Che Zala, secretary of the Communist Party of China's Lhasa municipal committee, said 57 years ago the central government dissolved the old Tibet government, and ushered in a new era that would be characterized by the people of Tibet taking control of their own destinies and be masters of the region.

In 2009, March 28 was designated as the day to mark the freeing of 1 million people, or 90 percent of the region's population at that time, from the feudal serf system in 1959.

On Monday, some 3,000 people from all walks of life gathered at Potala Palace Square in the regional capital of Lhasa for a flag raising ceremony.

Kelsang Tsering, 73, was among the crowd.

"I have a pension and my three children have jobs. We do not have to worry about living now," he said.

"We live happy lives now. I hope I could live to 100 years old," said Dawa Dorlma, a young Tibetan girl at the square.

Tibet's GDP surpassed 100 billion yuan (15 billion U.S. dollars) in 2015 after 23 years of double-digit growth. Per capita disposable income for its rural residents increased to 8,244 yuan last year, double that of 2010.

The region has also led the country in offering 15-year free education and free health check-ups for rural and urban residents.

The people of Tibet live better lives now, said Phuntsog, a Tibetan business man in Lhasa.

"Tibetans also play mobile phones at home, like many others," said Phuntsog, "We enjoy all the trappings of modern life."

Geleg Qoidar, 74, shared an old saying, which was popular when he was a serf.

"As a serf, you had to have legs of iron, a stomach the size of a bird and the eyes of an owl," he recalled .

"Serfs had endless things to do for their masters so they needed iron legs; they were always hungry so that they needed a small stomach; they had to work at night so they need owl's eyes," he explained.

Living in a two-story house with a big yard in Namkar Village in Lhasa, Geleg Qoidar is pleased with how his life has turned out. He enjoys a subsidy of 450 yuan each month as an old Communist Party of China (CPC)member. His family has an annual income of more than 10,000 yuan a year.

He said democratic reform in Tibet changed his fate. When serfdom was abolished on March 28, 1959, Geleg Qoidar was able to speak freely and go where he wanted.

"Having been tortured, I value real happiness," he said.
Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong (2nd R, back) meets with Arab League Secretary-General Nabil al-Araby (3rd R, front) in Cairo, capital of Egypt, March 27, 2016. (Xinhua/Meng Tao)

CAIRO, March 27-- Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong agreed on Sunday with Arab League Secretary-General Nabil al-Araby on efforts to further Chinese-Arab cooperation in the cultural and technological fields.

Liu said during their talks at the Arab League headquarters in Cairo that the Chinese-Arab cooperation in the areas of science, technology and culture has seen "noticeable progress."

Liu's visit came a couple of months after Chinese President Xi Jinpingpaid a remarkable visit to the pan-Arab body during which he outlined a new vision for the Chinese-Arab cooperation and said development was "a new path" to the solution of Middle East issues.

The vice premier referred to her visit as a translation of "the goals and vision that the Chinese president presented during his recent visit to the League," stressing Xi's visit had been aimed at "rejuvenating the China-Arab cooperation."

She hailed the constant political trust which has been built between the two sides over the past six decades in diplomatic ties, expressing China's willingness to work on enhancing innovative, technological and educational cooperation and to expand cultural exchange with the Arab side.

Liu also highlighted the significance of cooperative project proposed by Xi during his Arab League visit that included the translation of 100 Chinese and Arab books and making 100 mutual visits between Chinese and Arab experts.

The project also envisioned 1,000 training opportunities for Arab youth leaders, invitations for 1,500 Arab party leaders to visit China, 10,000 scholarships and 10,000 training courses, as well as exchanges of visit between 10,000 Chinese and Arab artists.

"This project is meant to maintain the core of the Chinese-Arab strategic cooperation," the Chinese vice premier said.

For his part, Araby voiced the hope of the Arab side to enhance cooperation with CHina for mutual benefits.

"China is the only big power that always supports the fair cause of the Arab world," Araby told Liu, noting that the Arab-Chinese friendship is based on "a solid ground."

The Arab League chief said that President Xi's recent remarks at the League showed the great interest of the Chinese leaders in the development of Chinese-Arab ties, which has been warmly welcomed by all the Arab people.

Araby also expressed the hope for further Arab-Chinese cooperation in the scientific, technological and cultural fields, stressing a keenness on maintaining China as a key partner and on holding the Arab-China cooperation forum on a regular basis.
PRAGUE, March 28 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived here Monday to start a three-day state visit to the Czech Republic, as China seeks closer China-Czech ties and stronger relations with Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

It is the first state visit by a Chinese president in 67 years since the two countries established diplomatic ties, which is also Xi's maiden visit to the CEE region since he assumed presidency in 2013 and his first trip to Europe this year.

Officials and experts from both countries believe that the China-Czech relations have been ushered into "the best time in history."

Xi and Czech President Milos Zeman met four times in two years. Following his state visit to China in October 2014, Zeman came to Beijing in September 2015 to attend the commemorations marking the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

During his stay in the Czech Republic, Xi will hold talks with Zeman and meet Czech Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka, Senate Chairman Milan Stech, Chamber of Deputies Chairman Jan Hamacek and Prague Mayor Adriana Krnacova.

"This is an opportune time for the development of the China-Czech relations. I look forward to working with Czech leaders to further enhance bilateral relations and push for new progress in '16+1' cooperation and China-EU relations," Xi said in his signed article published on the Pravo Daily ahead of his state visit.

So far, China is the Czech Republic's largest trading partner outside the European Union, while the Czech Republic has been China's second largest trading partner in Central and Eastern Europe for many years in a row.

Situated at the heartland of Europe, the Czech Republic enjoys advantageous location and strong industrial foundation. Beijing and Prague have huge cooperation potential in manufacturing, nuclear power and infrastructure construction.

During Xi's visit, the two countries will sign a number of cooperative agreements covering economy and trade, infrastructure, finance, health care, aviation, science and technology, and culture.

China's "Belt and Road Initiative" has presented unprecedented opportunities for the cooperation between the two nations, helping synergize their development strategies.

Beijing and Prague signed an intergovernmental MOU on jointly building the "Belt and Road Initiative" in November 2015. In the same year, a traditional Chinese medicine research center was inaugurated in the Czech Republic and a direct flight opened between Beijing and Prague.

The steady development of the China-Czech ties is in accordance with the strong cooperation momentum between China and the CEE region. All 16 CEE countries are along the route of the "Belt and Road."

Major cooperation projects between China and the CEE countries are moving ahead steadily. The Belgrade bridge over the Danube has been completed and opened to traffic. China will also make every effort to advance the flagship project of the Budapest-Belgrade railway.

Xi is also expected to raise proposals for the "16+1" cooperation during his stay in Prague, further directing the strategic China-CEE engagement.

After visiting the Czech Republic, Xi will fly to Washington D.C. to attend the fourth Nuclear Security Summit, to be held from March 31 to April 1.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to start his state visit to the Czech Republic. It will be the first time for a Chinese President to visit the country since diplomatic ties were established 67 years ago.

It will also be President Xi's first visit to a Central-Eastern European country. The visit will run through Wednesday.

President Xi is to meet his counterpart Milos Zeman. The two leaders are expected to sign a number of deals covering sectors including finance, infrastructure, technology and cultural exchanges.
Local government of Hohhot, north Chinas Inner Mongolia held a press conference recently to update the public about the investigation on a horrific footage in which doctors beat a female patient on operating table.

The footage was confirmed to be taken in Dushi liren (city beauty) Hospital, which has now been halted. The doctor in the video surnamed Zhao has resigned and cannot be reached currently. Zhao is suspected of using forged medical licenses to practice medicine.

The investigation has triggered a citywide rectification in privately operated hospitals. 350 hospitals have been probed, 139 of which have been ordered to rectify, 3 halted, and 7 banned.

The said video has recently gone viral on Chinas social media. In the video, a woman seemed to lie on the operation table of gynaecology department. She and her two doctors got involved in an argument during the operation. A female doctor smashed the patients head with an infusion bag. After the patient lay back in fatigue, the doctor slapped her face continually and shoved her legs.
A flight from Changchun to Shenzhen was delayed by a day at its stopover in Yantai. The delay was caused by an ugly, aggressive and unexpected passenger: a rat.

A passenger surnamed Yu told to the media: "It was the most absurd voyage of my life. We stopped at Yantai as scheduled. When we returned to cabin for take-off, we were told to get off the plane again, this time with our luggage." Yu also reported: "They didn't tell us the reason at first. When we kept asking, flight attendant finally said that there was a rat on board, and it had chewed the wires of the plane."

According to Yu, all the passengers who were delayed received 400 yuan as compensation from the airline. They also received overnight accommodations and were rescheduled on a flight the next day. However, Ms. Yu said that she still feels frightened about what could have happened.

A staff member at the head office of Shenzhen Airlines offered a statement on the matter, saying it was the cabin crew that found traces of the rat. The whole crew immediately began to search for the rodent, but by the time the plane was supposed to take off, they still hadnt found it. "According to regulations, since we had not caught the rat, the plane could not take off. Rats can be aggressive, which not only threatens the safety of passengers, but can also cause problems with the aircraft," said the staff member,

The employee also mentioned that Shenzhen Airlines has encountered similar cases before this one, including one that caused a flight to be delayed for three full days. Despite the fact that this was not a one-time issue, the airline has yet to implement specific preventative measures.

When the Shenzhen Airlines staff member was asked how the rat got onto the flight, he said that in addition to the usual passenger and cargo channels, the rat may have entered the aircraft while it was parked on the tarmac. "There are many tiny cracks and openings on an aircraft. Rats can enter the cabin through very small spaces," he said. However, the staff member denied that any wires on the plane had been chewed. He said an inspection showed that no such damage existed.
Ancient Chinese poem from Tang Dyansty (618-907) would say this about willows in the spring: you know by whom these slim leaves are cut out? The wind of early spring is sharp as scissor blade.

Photos taken on March 28, 2016 show willow tree buds are about to burst into new leaves, and sailboats in the background are again back into the water after the winter in Taihu Lake in Wuxi, east Chinas Jiangsu province. The scenery is all lively and full of the promising aspects of a new round of the four seasons.
This satellite image shows the Yongshu Jiao of China's Nansha Islands. [Photo/Xinhua]

The United States has beefed up its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in the South China Sea, over the past months, apparently to challenge China's lawful claims.

To some extent, Washington's agenda-setting tactics, including official announcements, outlandish media reports and so-called academic interpretations, have worked, giving Beijing's foreign affairs and defense authorities a hard time hitting back.

US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said recently that the Pentagon is "constantly evaluating" China's militarization of the South China Sea, stopping short of agreeing with a Hawaii congressman's proposal to withdraw the invitation to China to take part in a high-profile global naval exercise. This could be another trick of US politicians in their media war against China.

US political heavyweights, including US President Barack Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry and senior military officials - even some anonymous officials - have been pushing Washington's agenda against Beijing, which normally starts with the US military playing hawkish and ends with the government departments suggesting a softer diplomatic stance toward China.

As key elements of Washington's diplomatic PR, US scholars and media are given exclusive official information from time to time, allowing them to come up with targeted comments and reports against China's lawful territorial claims and construction on the islands and reefs in the South China Sea.

The US will make more such efforts to blow out of proportion the Philippines' bid for international arbitration on the South China Sea issue, in order to justify its increasing intervention in the region.

Of course, the US will not mention its refusal to accept the arbitration on its military and paramilitary intervention in Nicaragua in the 1980s. Instead, it is expected to cite more convenient excuses to overstate bilateral and regional disputes, most of which involve China, as major international issues to intervene in the region's affairs.

The root cause of the escalating tensions in the South China Sea is Washington's "pivot to Asia" policy and its increasingly aggressive military deployment in the region. Beijing's defense-oriented actions in the East and South China seas, in comparison, are only to keep the possible provocations from Japan and the Philippines at bay.

By accusing China's anti-ship ballistic missiles of being a threat to US aircraft carriers just because of their range, many US scholars are missing a crucial point: that many cutting-edge weapons which Washington has stockpiled are capable of destroying targets anywhere in the world.

China has been, and will remain, a staunch advocate of peaceful development and defensive security strategies, without having anything to do with the aggressive policy of "might makes right" in disregard of international law, as Obama hinted in a recent interview.

Similar accusations against China's so-called violations of international laws are vague and baseless, because China's construction on its own islets and reefs is not against any international law. Likewise, about half of the world's commercial vessels pass through the South China Sea every year, and their passage has never been impeded because of navigational freedom disputes, and thus the US' accusation doesn't hold water.

Although Beijing has every reason to reject arbitration on the South China Sea issue, its refusal has always been misinterpreted as a violation of international law. Therefore, it's time China fought back with more effective means.

The author is a research fellow at the Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, affiliated to Nanjing University.
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Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

The presence of Armenian armed forces on Azerbaijan's occupied lands is the main threat to peace and security in the region and main reason for the tension and ceasefire violation, Hikmet Hajiyev, spokesperson for Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry told Trend March 28.

"Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, personal representative of the country chairing the OSCE (Germany) and Minsk Group co-chairs made statements on March 18 and March 21 calling to adhere to the ceasefire during Novruz and Easter holidays," said Hajiyev.

He added that in accordance with the spirit of the holidays, Azerbaijani Defense Ministry immediately responded positively to Kasprzyk's call.

However, Armenia's Defense Ministry expressed a provocative attitude contradicting with this call, while the representatives of this country's Foreign Ministry made contradictory statements distorting the essence of the negotiation process, said the spokesperson.

"Moreover, Armenia continued the activities aimed at aggravating the situation on the contact line of Azerbaijani and Armenian armies and the Armenian-Azerbaijani border by intensively violating the ceasefire with heavy weapons," Hajiyev added.

Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry has said that the latest provocative actions were carried out by Armenia on March 27, which left an Azerbaijani officer and a soldier dead, said the spokesperson.

Hajiyev said all this once again proves that Armenia's true purpose is to deliberately aggravate the situation, prevent the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict through negotiations, maintain the status quo and continue the occupation of Azerbaijani territories.

In order to achieve progress in the conflict's settlement and ensure sustainable ceasefire, Armenia should withdraw its troops from Azerbaijan's occupied lands as required by the resolutions of the UN Security Council, according to the spokesperson.

Otherwise, Armenia is fully responsible for the current situation, he added.

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.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

The Armenian side, which has recently incurred heavy losses and seeking payback, increased the number of provocations on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border, the press service of Azerbaijan's defense ministry reported March 28.

On March 27, Armenian armed forces violated the state border of Azerbaijan on the territory of Gazakh district and tried to enter the country's territory.

Azerbaijani armed forces' units identified the enemy's movement direction and took the appropriate measures to prevent the offensive, and as a result, the invaders, who have incurred losses, had to retreat.

It is reported that officer and soldier of Azerbaijani armed forces, lieutenant Galib Zulfugarli and private soldier Gafarali Hajiyev were killed as a result of the clashes.

The leadership of Azerbaijani defense ministry expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved relatives and friends.

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.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

Foreign ministers of Azerbaijan, Russia and Iran will discuss in Baku implementation issues of bilateral and trilateral projects, Azerbaijani foreign ministry's spokesman Hikmat Hajiyev told Trend March 28.

The projects to be discussed include the transport corridor 'North-South', as well as issues of mutual interest, according to him.

Hajiyev said that it is scheduled to hold the meeting in the near future, adding that the concrete period of the meeting is being specified through diplomatic channels.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has expressed condolences to Pakistan's President Mamnoon Hussain.

"We were deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties as a result of an explosion in the Lahore city park," said President Ilham Aliyev's message.

"We resolutely condemn terror, which has become an evil, and we are extremely outraged by this horrible tragedy, and fully support the fight against terrorism," he added.

"On the occasion of this tragedy, on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on my own behalf, I extend my deep condolences to you, the bereaved families and the loved ones of those who died, and also wish the injured the swiftest possible recovery," the president said.
Peter Tase, the political analyst, the expert on international relations at the Marquette University (US) for Foreignpolicynews.org

Numerous archeological monuments of the early Iron Age in Nakhchivan, a province of the Republic of Azerbaijan, have an indispensable contribution towards shedding more light on the cultural, archeological and agricultural developments that have taken place throughout various centuries before and after Christ, in the outskirts of Europe. Archeological assents and sites located within the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan, require a highly detailed attention by international scholars who dedicate much of their time to the study of archeological artifacts, trends of ancient architecture and analyze valuable objects throughout Europe and Asia. Archeological sites such as Ilikligaya, Ilikligaya Monument, Irinchoy Ancient Site and the Sanctuary of Iydali Piri in Kangarli region, are unique archeological sites that ought to receive a greater attention by international scholars who dedicate most of their research to the study of pre-historic archeology, ancient European history and conduct expanded global research focused on the discovery of new clues that pertain to European civilization as well as to one of the world's ancient tribes that were indigenous to the territories of Azerbaijan and have been living for centuries in the Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan.

Ilikligaya Necropolis is an archeological monument located in the South East part of Tivi Village in Ordubad Region. Over many years during the harvesting season the landscape of this ancient Necropolis has been destroyed, however local scientists have found an immense collection of archeological items that were used during the last Bronze and early Iron ages. The ceramic artifacts speak volumes about the importance that Ilikligaya has played in the region's ancient trade and agricultural inventions. Some of the items discovered are: pitcher, cup, tea pots, dishes, differently shaped vases; agricultural tools, remnants of horse caravans, pieces of vases and clay dishes that were perfectly burned in grey color. Based on the discoveries over the last two decades, the items found take this settlement back to the end of II and beginning of I Millennium BC.

Another ancient monument is the Irinchoy settlement, an archeological site that covers two high hills, including their slopes, in the South East parts of Shahbulag Village, in the region of Sharur. It has a territory that spans over 1,500 square meters, Irinchoy is home to many archeological materials and sources that make Sharur (one of the regions of Nakhchivan) a location with enormous significance in the study of late Middle Ages at a global scale. The brick structures that were explored recently with a stone foundation maintain special characteristics for the region and they require a more detailed investigation that could help expand on the importance that Irinchoy embodies. This settlement was built by large stone walls. Within the ruins local archeologists have found unique ceramic items that were burned in pink color and consist of clay plates and other shapes. According to local sources the structures of the settlement are built by big stones and preserve a distinguished style of architecture. The discovered ceramic products burnt in pink color consist of tableware pieces that are irregularly shaped. The ceramic products found in the area are a characteristic of the Late Middle Ages.

Babek region is another significant location where International Scholars could find significant responses to many unanswered questions. Babek is host of the Ishiglar Settlement which has been built in the Middle Ages, at the North East side of Jahri Village, with a territory that spans over 46,000 square meters. In the center of this settlement is located the "Khartanli Spring". Jahri village still has the remnants of creeks called "aryks" that come from Janichay; their water was used earlier for agriculture and farming purposes. The thickness of its cultural layer is visible and has been a point of attraction to many international scholars who study the archeological parks of Eurasian landmass.

In some places the thickness of the walls in this monument is three to five meters. On other sections the walls have square shaped holes and remnants of old architecture can be appreciated until today. A large part of this settlement (about 16,000 m2) has been covered by ash layers. Pottery and clay artifacts are discovered over the ash layers. Ishiglar has been included in the Nahajir Middle Age settlement. Based on the current observations the ash layers (heaps) have been caused by the pottery activity in the area. According to the archeological sources, Ishiglar Settlement has taken shape during the III-XVII centuries.

The artifacts discovered in this settlement could be separated into two periods. Discoveries of the first period consist of pieces and platters burnt in grey, black and pink colors. They belong to the Early Middle ages. The cultural materials that can still be observed today belong to a later period of the Middle Ages. Such objects were mostly baked in pink color and designed with renowned geometric and natural ornaments. During the designing process such items (plates and other artifacts) were covered with limpid and non-limpid glaze. The necropolis of this settlement is located on a lower hill that is located south of the center. Due to atmospheric intrusion, most of the Muslim graves have been destroyed. Moreover, the name of this settlement has been linked to an old Turkish tribe.

Shakhtakhti Village, in the region of Kangarli, has a noteworthy sanctuary named Iydali Piri, a strategic location of the Middle Ages. This sanctuary is situated in the natural hollow of a rock (cave). Around it were built rock pieces in a square shape. In some places the height of the walls reaches 50-60 cm. and in other sections there exist remnants of rocky structures that have been repaired over time. Iydali Piri is a very popular place, constantly visited by locals and has deep roots in the religious history of Nakhchivan. Visitors will find a water spring around the sanctuary. Additionally there are traces of the walls around the sanctuary. Over the years, Ceramic artifacts have been found; they date back in the Classical and Middle Ages. Iydali Piri embodies the deeply rooted significance of water and fire, mythological beliefs of the Azerbaijani People. This sanctuary is thought to have been built approximately on the II-I Centuries BC.

Nakhchivan is a treasure of world archeology, its cultural monuments, religious sites and ancient archeological riches have transformed the birthplace of Heydar Aliyev into a highly valued location that carries a special contribution in the world's ancient and medieval history.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

Azerbaijan strongly condemns the terrorist attack committed in Pakistani city of Lahore, which caused numerous casualties, including the death of children, said Hikmet Hajiyev, foreign ministry's spokesman, speaking to Trend March 28.

"We extend our condolences to the families and friends of the victims, to the brotherly people of Pakistan, and wish the injured the swiftest recovery," added Hajiyev.

He also said it is especially concerning that the suicide bomber chose to commit the terror attack in a park where there were many children.

"Azerbaijan, as a country suffering from terrorism, strongly condemns all of its forms and fully supports the fight against terrorism," Hajiyev added.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce that the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs (GIPA) is soliciting applications from Azerbaijani citizens for a master's degree program in journalism and media management offered by the Caucasus School of Journalism and Media Management (CSJMM) and taught by instructors from the United States, the European Union, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of State.

Five Azerbaijani students will be selected for the program, which will be offered in four semesters from September 2016 to May 2018. The program will be held in Georgia from September 2016-December 2017, with the fourth semester conducted as a self-guided project in Azerbaijan. Students will return to Georgia for the defense of their thesis/ final project in May 2018. While resident at GIPA, students will have access to computer, audio and video equipment, the Internet, and a journalism library. The program produces a student newspaper, Brosse Street Journal, in print and electronic versions, and airs reports on Radio GIPA FM.

The program curriculum provides a hands-on, experiential approach to learning the latest techniques of fact-based, professional reporting and writing in both print and broadcast media. Management techniques and key knowledge fields, such as economics and the judiciary, are also stressed.

Strong English language skills, as demonstrated by a written exam and at an oral interview, are required.

The U.S. Embassy in Baku provides tuition support and financial assistance for the duration of studies in Georgia to students who demonstrate financial need.

Entrance procedures are as follows: an interview (in English) with an Azerbaijani-American selection committee in Baku, English language testing, and essay writing (in English). Deadline for application is April 22, 2016.

For more information or questions about submitting applications, please contact:

Gulchin Seyidova, recruitment coordinator, at [email protected]

or:

Caucasus School of Journalism and Media Management at

Georgian Institute of Public Affairs

Address: 2 Brosse Street, Tbilisi, Georgia

Tel/fax: 99532 93-14-66, cell: 99599 50-24-46

E-mail: [email protected] web: http://www.gipa.ge/csjmm/cert_en.php .

Additional Information:

With the assistance of the U.S. government and the American National Academy of Public Administration, the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs was established in 1994 as a non-governmental, non-profit educational institution with the purpose of creating a cadre of highly trained civil servants to help support democratic and market reforms in the Caucasus.

The Caucasus School of Journalism and Media Management (CSJMM) was established at GIPA in 2001 to support the development of professional media in the Caucasus through educational and training programs in journalism, communication, and media management. The school's philosophy is that journalists-well-grounded in skills to report fairly and accurately-will raise the level of journalism where they practice and will serve the public by providing truthful information and upholding the highest ethical standards of the profession.

Since its opening in January 2002, CSJMM's English-language, regional program has graduated 145 students with master's degrees in journalism and media management. In Azerbaijan, CSJMM graduates hold leading positions in professional media. Graduates today are well established journalists committed to the principles of fairness, independence, honesty, and accuracy in their work for newspapers, television, and radio.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

UNEC has started a new project - economic scientists' and practitioners' virtual economic forum diskurs.az. The goal of the project is to create the space where the well known Azerbaijan and foreign economists could come together to discuss the most pressing issues.

Diskurs.az creates the opportunity to place the materials of interest, as well as to assess and comment them and to share in social networking.

The virtual forum will feature expert review of economic trends, expert opinions and suggestions will be placed on a variety of economic issues. At the same time, users will be given the opportunity to create rubrics to fit their interests.

Users and attendees become participants of a unique intellectual platform where they will able to discuss topical issues of the economy and business with the country's leading economists, scientists and experts in various fields directly.

Azerbaijan State University of Economics invites the economists to visit diskurs.az and share their opinions related with economic topics with public.

UNEC is the brand of Azerbaijan State University of Economics. The brand of UNEC has been registered and patented by the State Committee on Standardization, Metrology and Patent on January 21 2016. In brand approval 41st class of special classification on- educating, ensuring teaching process, organization of entertaining, sport and cultural- educational events and 42nd class on- scientific and technological services and the related researches, industrial analysis and services on scientific researches, technical and program provision of computers and their improvement have been based on by the State Committee on Standardization, Metrology and Patent.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

The State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) sold $0.5 million to three local banks through the auction held by Azerbaijan's Central Bank (CBA) March 28, SOFAZ said March 28.

SOFAZ offered $100 million for sale through the auction, and will continue selling foreign currency through auctions in 2016.

The foreign currency is sold as part of SOFAZ's transfers to the Azerbaijani state budget, which are envisaged to stand at 7.615 billion Azerbaijani manats in 2016.

SOFAZ was established in 1999 with assets of $271 million.

As of January 1, 2016, SOFAZ assets reduced by 9.5 percent compared to 2014 ($37.1 billion) and were estimated at $33.57 billion.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkmenistan has made a 20-percent discount to Turkey for cargo transportation through the Caspian Sea, Istanbulhaber online newspaper quoted Fatih Sener, executive director of Turkish International Transporters' Association, as saying March 28.

Sener noted that Turkmenistan's government made a decision on a discount on March 25.

Earlier, Sener told Trend that Turkey can increase the cargo transportation with ro-ro vessels from Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan bypassing Iran.

It was earlier reported that Azerbaijan has reduced the cost of cargo transportation with large-capacity vehicles to Kazakhstan's Aktau and Turkmenistan's Turkmenbashi ports by around 40 percent. It was the result of simplifying the transit procedures and reducing the tariffs for cargo transportation to these ports.

As many as 1,582 trucks were sent to Central Asia from Turkey through Azerbaijan's territory in January-February of 2016, or 7.3 times more than in the same period in 2015.

Edited by SI

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Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Anvar Mammadov - Trend:

The board of directors of the World Bank (WB) plans to approve on March 28 the additional $140 million to fund the expansion of the Baku-Shamakhi highway, the WB Baku office has told Trend.

"Official talks on the loan have already been completed," said the WB office. "The WB board of directors will discuss the allocation of additional funding for this project tonight [Baku time]."

The loan will be issued through the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), which is a part of the WB group.

The total additional funds for the project hit $186.6 million. Out of this, $46.6 million account for the government's share.

Forty percent of the funds will be spent on restructuring and privatization of state-owned enterprises in this sphere.

WB's total investments in Azerbaijan's road projects (I, II, III road projects) amounted to $1 billion.

The funds will be used to carry out the remaining work as part of the additional funding.

Reconstruction of the Baku-Shamakhi highway is being carried out as part of the third project for rebuilding main roads.

The "Azerbaijan Highway 3 Additional Financing" project, totaling $356.15 million, was approved in 2010. The project includes two directions: 1) reconstruction of Azerbaijan's trunk highway system and transit corridors; 2) reconstruction of local roads as part of the regional development strategy.

The project for reconstructing the Baku-Shamakhi-Muganli highway is meant to expand it from a two-lane to a four-lane road. The project will be completed in September 2016.

Azerbaijan joined the World Bank in 1992. The WB has allocated $3.786 billion worth loans to Azerbaijan as of Feb. 1, 2016. These funds have been used to finance over 60 projects.

The country has absorbed $2.764 billion as of early 2016, or 73 percent of the total WB loans. Aside from the loans, the WB allocated 45 grants totaling $41.586 million to Azerbaijan from 1995 to 2014.

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Follow the author on Twitter: @Anvar_Mammadov
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Elmira Tariverdiyeva - Trend:

Political support for third countries often becomes unaffordable for regional powers during economic difficulties.

Perhaps, in "peacetime" Iran and Russia considered the idea to include Armenia at least in some regional infrastructure projects, including transport, but today the main issue on the agenda is the countries' economic stability and development.

And it becomes clear that it is not the time to carry such economic ballast like Armenia. So, the ruin of the Armenian hopes was quite predictable. The country has no finance, no infrastructure, and no trust as a stable strategic partner.

But first things first. The planned trilateral meeting of the Azerbaijani, Russian and Iranian foreign ministers in Baku has recently become known. Earlier, a diplomatic source told Trend that one of the main topics of this meeting will be the implementation of the North-South transport corridor project.

Today Baku is included in a very important and large scale project, which promises great profits, investment, economic development and strengthening of relations with the region's countries. However, this project is important not only for Azerbaijan.

For all three oil-producing countries - Azerbaijan, Iran and Russia, income of which decreased due to the fall in oil prices, the North-South project will combine economic potentials that will help to diversify the economies of these countries.

Initially, it was obvious that Azerbaijan will become an important part of this transport corridor, which will connect Northern Europe with Southeast Asia.

This project will serve as a link to connect the railways of Azerbaijan, Iran and Russia, and as a road on which the increasing flow of goods will go in two directions, connecting China, Finland and the Gulf states which are located at a long distance from each other.

Azerbaijan has long deserved to be considered as one of the most important players in the region by constantly developing and investing heavily in the construction of infrastructure, railways and ports.

Baku has recently announced the creation of a free trade zone on the territory of Baku International Sea Trade Port, which will certainly be another step to turn the country into a major transportation and logistics hub.

The creation of such a zone will also enable Central Asian countries to export goods to Europe and Asia by benefiting from the North-South project.

It is also very important that the infrastructure for starting the project's implementation is almost ready.

Azerbaijan's and Iran's railways will be connected within the North-South transportation corridor by late 2016.

Iran plans to complete the construction of a railway from Rasht (Iran) to Astara (Azerbaijan) along the Caspian Sea coast in the next two years.

It means that in the near future, Azerbaijan will become a major transportation and logistics center of the region and a part of the important project which will make it possible to strengthen the country's economic cooperation with the largest countries in the region.

---

Elmira Tariverdiyeva is the head of Trend Agency's Russian News Service
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, March 28

By Huseyn Hasanov- Trend:

Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has received Toyohisa Kozuki, Japanese newly appointed extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador, the Turkmen government said March 26.

Kozuki delivered his credentials to the president.

During the meeting, the ambassador stressed the Japanese side's high interest in the further development of traditionally friendly relations with Turkmenistan.

The sides exchanged views on priority areas of interstate relations, which are being developed both in bilateral and multilateral formats, through the authoritative international organizations and structures, as well as part of the Central Asia + Japan dialogue.

The sides also stressed the potential for further intensification of cooperation in its promising areas, including the trade-economic, energy, transport and communication sectors.

Japanese companies are implementing a number of large investment projects in the gas-chemical and chemical areas in Turkmenistan.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

Trend:

It is planned to hold the UN first World Conference on Sustainable Transport in Turkmenistan in late 2016, according to the message of the Turkmen government.

Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov signed a decree, according to which the staff of the organizing committee on preparation and holding of the mentioned conference was approved.

At the government meeting, Turkmenistan's president said that in modern conditions cooperation in the transport and communications sector gained special importance as an essential factor of global sustainable development, according to the message.

He said that the transport sphere is one of the key segments of global economy, which directly affects stability and balance of global economic relations.

Berdimuhamedov went on to add that Turkmenistan, which occupies a favorable geographical position, strengthens its positions as an important transit and transportation hub, as well as logistics center of regional and continental importance.
Tashkent, Uzbekistan, March 28

By Demir Azizov- Trend:

Uzbekistan has increased privileges of the fund for export support for entities of small business and private entrepreneurship, according to the decree of the Uzbek President Islam Karimov published March 28 in the country's media outlets.

The fund was created in 2013 at the National Bank for Foreign Economic Activity of Uzbekistan for the expansion of export potential of entities of small business and private entrepreneurship, as well as farms.

In accordance with the current decree by the Uzbek president, the fund can participate in the authorized capital of small business entities, which have no sufficient funds to organize output of export-oriented products, compensate small business entities and farms a part of costs for modernization, expansion of production, attraction of foreign specialists with the subsequent return of the means to the fund.

Commission contributions to the fund for the rendered services have been reduced from three to one percent of the export contract value, but not less than 100,000 soums (UZS).

The official exchange rate as of March 28 is 2871.77 UZS/$1.

The fund has also been granted the right to open representative offices in foreign countries.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 27

By Fatih Karimov - Trend:

Iran has been allowed to set up a branch of its largest commercial bank, Bank Melli in Pakistan, Tasnim news agency reported March 27.

Based on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) which was signed by Governor of Pakistan's State Bank Ashraf Wathra and head of Iran's Central Bank Valiollah Seif on the sidelines of a joint business forum in Islamabad March 26, Pakistan agreed to allow Bank Melli to open branch in the country.

Under the agreement Pakistan's Habib Bank will be allowed to open a branch in Iran as well.

Establishing correspondent banking relationships, opening banking accounts between Tehran and Islamabad, and preparing grounds for cooperation of the two countries' commercial banks to facilitate the business are among the other contents of the deal.

The two sides also agreed to form a joint banking committee to pursue the process of implementation of the agreement.

Iran and Pakistan signed six documents, mostly focused on boosting economic ties during the visit of Iranian president Hassan Rouhani to Islamabad. The sides signed documents including the commercial 5-year strategic plan, cooperation between Iran and Pakistan's chambers of commerce, as well as the Central Insurance of Iran and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.

Rouhani arrived in Islamabad on March 25 and met with Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif. During the meeting they discussed issues of mutual interest, as well as economic cooperation at regional and international levels.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Fatih Karimov - Trend:

The Iranian administration spares no effort to boost the country's defense capabilities, President Hassan Rouhani said during the first meeting of the ministers' cabinet in Iran's new calendar year, the state-run IRINN TV reported March 28.

The government pursues any measure which is necessary for strengthening Iran's defensive capabilities, Rouhani said.

He added that the issue is his administration's "strategic policy."

However, he further said that, the Islamic Republic should be careful to not provide its enemies with any excuse in this regard.

Rouhani's remarks came after Iran was slapped with new US sanctions, following the test-fire of several ballistic missiles from several bases across the country as part of massive missile drills in early March.

While a couple of Western and regional states claimed the tests have violated a UN resolution, Iranian officials have constantly reiterated that Tehran's ballistic missile tests do not violate the nuclear agreement it reached with the P5+1 group and are not in breach of a United Nations Security Council resolution.

The US Department of the Treasury imposed financial sanctions on two Iranian companies it claims were involved in the country's ballistic missile program.

Washington's latest legal move against Tehran was announced on March 24, weeks after the US imposed similar sanctions on 11 other companies and individuals alleged to be involved in the missile program.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif earlier said that the Islamic Republic would respond to the sanctions by strengthening its missile capabilities.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Fatih Karimov - Trend:

The Syrian frontline is an exercise ground for mobilizing the Islamic world against enemies, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari said.

The conditions in Syria, Iraq and Yemen are good and developments are in favor of the Islamic Revolution, Jafari said, Fars news agency reported March 28.

The IRGC commander further said that the "resistance" front's situation in Syria in fighting the IS terrorist group (ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) is "quite good."

The Islamic Republic views the Syrian regime as its main strategic ally in the region, as well as part of an "axis of resistance" against Israel. Tehran has always expressed support for the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Jafari also said that no changes were made in Russia's policy in Syria following the ceasefire, adding that Moscow's action go in coordination with the forces loyal to the Syrian government.

He noted that the forces loyal to the Syrian government have taken over control of the Tadmur (Palmyra) city, which indicates Russia's coordination with the Syrian government.

The Syrian government forces backed by heavy Russian air support drove the IS group out of Palmyra on March 27, inflicting what the army called a 'mortal blow' to militants who seized the city last year and dynamited its ancient temples.

Western countries accuse Iran of running military operations in Syria, but Tehran denies these accusations. Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed that they only provide military consultations to Syrian forces.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Emil Ilgar - Trend:

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani on March 28, said the Kremlin's press service.

The two presidents discussed in detail the situation in Syria, particularly in connection with the Syrian Armed Forces' successful operations, which, with support from Russia's Air Forces, have forced the IS terrorists out of the ancient town of Palmyra, a world cultural heritage site.

The two leaders noted that this is a very significant event, also in the context of the continued fight against the terrorist groups in Syria, the report added.

Putin and Rouhani also exchanged views on current bilateral issues and agreed to activate contacts at various levels.
A senior commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says Iran will never stop developing its "defensive and deterrent" ballistic missile program, Press TV reported.

The boost in Iran's missile might serves deterrent purposes and is unstoppable, Commander of the IRGC's Aerospace Division Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh said on Monday.

No one doubts that the promotion of the defensive power of Iran's Armed Forces serves to guarantee the security of the Iranian nation and deter any potential aggression against the country, he added.

On Thursday, the US Treasury Department blacklisted two Iranian companies claiming that the firms backed Iran's ballistic missile program. Washington also claimed that the companies are working for an industrial group, which the US alleges is in charge of Iran's ballistic missile program.

The blacklisting came after the IRGC successfully test-fired two more ballistic missiles on March 9 as part of military drills to assess the IRGC's capabilities. The missiles dubbed Qadr-H and Qadr-F were fired during large-scale drills, code-named Eqtedar-e-Velayat.

On March 8, Iran fired another ballistic missile called Qiam from silo-based launchers in different locations across the country.

Hajizadeh further noted that US sanctions are aimed at intimidating Iranian officials, emphasizing that such moves are futile.

"We have previously announced that even if they build a wall all around the country, the production of missiles will not stop in Iran," the IRGC commander said, adding, "Western countries are trying to scare [Iranian] officials. They are trying to scare officials [by threatening them] with military aggression and sanctions and this fear is our biggest threat."

He emphasized that the Iranian Armed Forces will strongly resist any aggression.

US claims Iran's missile tests violate the UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed a nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), clinched by Iran and the P5+1 countries - the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany - on July 14, 2015.

Iran, however, has repeatedly announced that the missile launches were not against the Security Council resolution.

Resolution 2231 (2015) provides for the termination of the provisions of previous Security Council resolutions on the Iranian nuclear program, and calls on Iran not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using such ballistic missile technology.
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28



By Farhad Daneshvar - Trend:



As the 2016 US presidential election has sparked off an intense debate on the outcome of the polls, Iranian social media users have drawn striking parallels between Former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and US frontrunner Donald Trump.



While a large number of Iranians have opposed Trump describing him as "emerging nightmare" and "American Ahmadinejad", there are a few people who express support for Trump suggesting the controversial candidate is capable of eliminating terrorism.



There is another group of people who describe Trump as a hardliner and say there is no difference between Iranian and American hardliners.



Such users claimed noticing similar remarks made by Trump and Iranian hardliners regarding the nuclear deal.



"They are both unhappy with the nuclear deal. Is not that strange?" a Twitter user questioned.



"No matter what country they come from, the hardliners always express same views," another Twitter user said.



Ahmadinejad's Hollywood version



Some Iranian social media users believe Donald Trump is the "Hollywood version" of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.



"Trump is very similar to Ahmadinejad in both talking manner and dressing. I hope he will not gain votes as Ahmadinejad did," a Twitter user said.



Meanwhile, another user said if Trump is elected as US president, Iranians won't feel so embarrassed for having someone like Ahmadinejad for president.



Comparing Trump with Ahmadinejad, another user described the American frontrunner as a "nightmare" saying that Trump as a president is more harmful for the world than the former Iranian president.







"I love Mr. Trump"



Trump however does have its fans among Iranians as well. One Facebook user said it was a mistake "to oppose Trump".



"I love Mr. Trump. I hope he will be the president because I know that he will eliminate terrorism very soon," a Facebook user backed the US presidential candidate.



"Trump knows very well that the root of terrorism is in the Islamic and Arab states. In my opinion Trump has clear goals," another Facebook user said, expressing his support for Trump.



Other users argued that Former US President George W. Bush's invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan failed to eliminate terrorism.



"Was Bush's attempt to eliminate terrorist successful when he invaded Iraq and Afghanistan? It only increased the number of extremist groups in the region," another Facebook user replied to those who back Trump's views regarding terrorism.



Users making comments such as "for the world Trump is as dangerous as Islamic extremists are", "Trump is just like an emerging Tornado and you can do nothing to stop it" and "Trump is an extremist and extremists are not reliable," raised serious objections to Trump's views regarding terrorism.







Trump vs. Muslims



Some users highlighted Trump's business activities in Muslim countries and criticized his remarks on banning Muslims from entering the US.



Mohammad Reza Sabzalipour, the head of Iran's World Trade Center, pointed to a massive project by Trump for the construction of a skyscraper in Dubai saying Trump is looking for money in Muslim countries but he calls for barring Muslims from entering the US.







"I am really happy that Trump appeared in the US. Now, the world at least understands that the Middle East is not the only region were silly and hardline people appear," a Twitter user said.



Although some users believe that Trump's advance in the election signals the failure of democracy, others say Trump's participation in the electoral campaign is only for heating up the electoral competition and he is incapable of assuming office. The users suggested that other candidates such as Clinton have more chance to be elected as the president of the US.



However, Seyed Hosssein Mousavian, a former Iranian diplomat has suggested that Trump may come to compromise with Tehran if Americans elect him as president.



"Trump is an unpredictable person. However, he is a businessman and despite his outrageous quotes, he may come to a deal even with Iran, if he finds Iran business interesting and finds Iran helpful for resolving the existing regional crisis," Mousavian told the official IRNA news agency in an early March interview.

Farhad Daneshvar is Trend Agency's staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @Farhad_Danesh
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday said that the liberation of Syria's Palmyra from the Islamic State militants is a happy event, important for the preservation of cultural values of the city, the United Nations said, Sputnik reported.



The Syrian army confirmed Sunday that it had liberated the historic city of Palmyra from the Islamic State terrorist group with support of national aviation and Russian Aerospace Forces.

"We are encouraged and fortunate that the Syrian Government Forces have been able to retrieve, defeat IS from Palmyra and are now able to preserve and protect these human common cultural assets. And I am also encouraged by their announcement that they will try to not preserve or protect, but trying to restore. I hope they will be able to do that," the UN said in a read-out statement published on its website.

Earlier in the day, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed hope that international experts would be able to start working on preservation and reconstruction of Palmyra right after the end of demining operations.

Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under IS control since May 2015. The jihadist group, which is outlawed in many countries, including Russia and the United States, has since destroyed part of the ruins, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
A huge fire gutted at least two buildings in the Ajman One residential cluster of 12 towers close to the border with Sharjah on Monday night. Fire mainly damaged tower 1.

Officials could not immediately be reached for information on any casualties, but one official said tenants were being evacuated to safety.

Brigadier Saleh Saeed Al Matroushi, Director of Ajman Civil Defence, told Gulf News that civil defence teams were working to put out the fire.

The operations room had received a call about the fire at 9.45pm. Civil Defence, rescue and ambulance teams rushed to the scene. Traffic on roads leading to the area had come to a virtual halt.

Lieutenant General HH Shaikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, rushed to Ajman to follow-up on the details of the firefighting operations, through the Command and Control Center at Ajman Central Operations Room at the Directorate General of Civil Defense in Ajman.

Bismillah, a Pakistani tenant of tower 8 in the complex said her three children rushed down 19 floors to safety. Tenants gathered around the complex as the buildings burned. "We are all very distraught. We have lost everything," she said.

Several units battled the huge blaze well into the night.

Flames are seen raging while the area has been cordoned off leading to huge traffic jam Ajman and Sharjah. Fire fighters were busy putting out the fire until late into the night.

"My flat is completed gutted," said another resident while wiping away tears. "I have lost everything including my documents and I have no place to stay."

Tower 6 was gutted by midnight as the inferno continue to rage through the building.

It didn't appear to spread to any other building after tearing through tower 8, 7, and 6.

Many tenants were in tears as the building burned. Huge crowds that gathered to watch the incident dispersed somewhat after midnight but many people continued to take pictures and videos.

"All I have left are the clothes on my back, " said an Indian tenant of tower 6, who lived on floor 22.

"My colleague is coming to pick me up. I am too disturbed to make sense of it all."

Buildings in the complex apparently untouched by the fire were empty as tenants had been evacuated.

"I am waiting to see if I will be let back in. Otherwise I will have to sleep on the beach tonight," said Katerina, a tower 3 tenant from Ukraine.

"I can't believe how quickly all this happened last. I saw the fire from my window and as a precaution grabbed my documents and left the building. It was not a huge fire then."

Fire trucks, police and ambulance units remained on the site. Police kept pushing forward the cordoned area away from the complex as fiery debris rained down.

People stood watching the flames well into the night.


Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday "strongly" condemned the suicide blast that killed scores of people and injured hundreds of others in the Pakistani city of Lahore, Anadolu Agency reported.



A suicide bomber blew himself up in a crowded park in Lahore on Sunday evening, killing at least 69 people and injuring 300 others, according to Salman Rafiq, health minister of Pakistan's Punjab province.



"I strongly condemn the terror attack that happened in the Lahore city of Pakistan," said Erdogan in a written statement issued by the presidency.



According to police, the bomber detonated his explosive-laden vest in a crowded area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, located in a northern district of Lahore, Pakistan's second largest city and the regional capital of Punjab province.



"The attack, which took place at an amusement park packed with families, especially children, has revealed terror's face, which does not know limits and values," said Erdogan. "This attack is an examination for all countries to provide their sincere stance in the face of terror."



Erdogan offered his condolences to families of victims, his Pakistani counterpart Mamnoon Hussain, and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.



In a statement, Jamaat ul-Ahrar, a group affiliated with the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for Sunday's bombing.
At least 69 people including a large number of women and kids were killed and over 300 others injured when a suicide bomber hit a public park in Pakistan's east Lahore city on Sunday evening, Xinhua reported with the reference to officials.



Deputy Coordination Officer Lahore, Captain Usman, said that the killed people included 23 kids whereas 56 injured children were shifted to various hospitals of the city.



Haider Ashraf, the Deputy Inspector General Police, said that the suicide bomber blew himself up in the parking stand near the gate of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in the Lahore city, the capital of the country's east Punjab province.



He said that the stand was located near the kids' swing area and ticket booth and the bomber chose it to explode himself for targeting a large number of people in which he succeeded.



He said that the park was crowded than usual due to Sunday's holiday and a number minority Christian people was also visiting it to celebrate the Easter festival, when the blast happened.



A Pakistan Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack in Lahore that killed over 60 people and injured over 300 on Sunday.



"We claim responsibility for the attack on the Christians as they were celebrating their religious festival," spokesman for the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jamaat ul Ahrar, Eshansullah Ehsan said.



The government of Punjab announced three-day mourning over the incident whereas the governments in the country's south Sindh and southwest Balochistan province announced one-day mourning.



Both the country's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Mamnoon Hussain condemned the blast and directed hospital administration to provide best possible medical treatment to the injured people.



Sharif, who was scheduled to leave for UK Monday, postponed his visit to review the security situation in the country.



The country's army chief also held a high level meeting and directed concerned commanders, Intelligence agencies to commence operations as soon as possible to find linkages and perpetrators of the suicide attack, the Inter-Services Public Relations, the mouthpiece of Pakistani army said.



International community including the US, Turkey and India also condemned the blast.
A police officer may have been injured by shrapnel on Monday in the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center when a man fired a gun, media reports and congressional sources said, Reuters reported.

There was confusion in early accounts about what occurred but police said a suspect was taken into custody with wounds after shots were fired.

MSNBC-TV reported that an officer who fired at an armed suspect may have been injured by shrapnel. Police said the suspect was taken to hospital. The officer did not identify or describe the suspect and he added that there were no additional suspects.

A U.S. government official told Reuters that initial reports were that a suspect walked into the Visitors Center, pointed a gun at one of the police officers on duty and a shootout erupted.

The official said no evidence had materialized of a connection to terrorism.

Separately, CNN reported that a person tried to gain entry into the White House but was caught.

Congress is in recess, with few lawmakers in Washington but the shooting happened just a few hours after a drill for an active shooter took place at the Capitol, creating further confusion.

The Secret Service temporarily cleared tourists from an area surrounding the White House after the incident, but activities quickly went back to normal. Capitol Hill was placed in lockdown immediately after the shooting but was later lifted.

Cathryn Leff, a licensed therapist, tweeted that she was at the visitor's center when she heard gunshots while going through a security check point.

"That moment when it goes down . Everyone is screaming & running and you can't see where the #ShotsFired are from," tweeted Leff(@Cathrynlefflmft).
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkey and Iran will discuss the joint fight against terrorism during Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's visit to Ankara, Turkiye newspaper wrote March 28.

The newspaper wrote that President Rouhani will visit Ankara in the coming days and the exact date is being specified.

The regional issues, in particular those relating to the settlement of the Syrian crisis, are also expected to be discussed during the visit.

Syria has been suffering from an armed conflict since March 2011, which, according to the UN, has so far claimed the lives of over 220,000 people. Militants from various armed groups are confronting the Syrian government troops.

The "Islamic State" (IS, aka ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) and Jabhat al-Nusra are the most active terrorist groups in Syria.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

The Turkish parliament will discuss adoption of the country's new constitution in April 2016, the country's newspaper YeniSafak reported March 28.

Such a decision was made by the country's government after the Turkish opposition refused to participate in the work of an ad hoc commission for the new constitution's preparation, according to the newspaper.

An ad hoc commission was created in Turkey for preparation of a new constitution for the country Feb. 4.

Earlier, a source in Turkish presidential administration told Trend that a new Turkish constitution can be adopted through a national referendum if the parliament isn't able to adopt it through a voting.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Two militants of the IS terrorist group (ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) were detained in the Turkish province of Gaziantep on the border with Syria, the Turkish Anadolu news agency reported March 28.

The militants crossed into Turkey through the underground tunnels, according to the agency.

The detainees are neither Turkish nor Syrian citizens, the agency reported.

Earlier, ten members of the IS terrorist group were detained in Turkey

Also earlier, Haberturk newspaper reported citing the Turkish intelligence service that the IS terrorist group plans to commit terrorist attacks against Israeli and Russian citizens in Turkey.

These plans were revealed following the arrest of the IS members in Turkey's Gaziantep province.

Turkey has faced deadly terrorist attacks in recent weeks.

On March 13, a car bomb attack in Ankara left 37 people dead. Istanbul was also targeted by a suicide attack on March 19, leaving five people dead. Turkish authorities have accused Daesh, the PKK and the PYD terrorist groups for the attacks.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Israel called on its citizens to leave Turkey, the Haberturk newspaper reported March 28.

The call came after it became known that the "Islamic State" (IS aka ISIS, ISIL, or Daesh) terrorist group plans terrorist attacks on Israeli and Russian citizens in Turkey, the newspaper reported citing diplomatic sources.

The said plans were revealed following the arrest of 10 IS members in Turkey's Gaziantep province.

Turkey has been facing deadly terrorist attacks in recent weeks.

On March 13, a car bomb attack in Ankara killed 36. Istanbul was also targeted by a suicide attack on March 19 leaving four people dead.

Turkish authorities have accused the IS, PKK and PYD terrorist groups of committing the attacks.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

There is no particular need for the meeting of the US and Turkish presidents during the 2016 Nuclear Industry Summit, TRT Haber TV channel quoted Ibrahim Kalin, spokesperson for Turkey's presidential administration, as saying March 28.

He noted that recently, the US President Barack Obama and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have had a phone conversation.

Earlier, some media outlets reported that Obama has refused from a private meeting with Erdogan.

Turkey's president is due in the US this week to attend the 2016 Nuclear Industry Summit.

Edited by SI

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Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Over 5,359 Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) members have been killed in Turkey since July 2015 within the framework of operations against the PKK terrorist organization, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.

He said that 355 Turkish servicemen were killed during the operations against the PKK, Anadolu agency reported March 28.

Erdogan noted that the operations will last until the PKK's annihilation.

The conflict between Turkey and the PKK, which demands the creation of an independent Kurdish state, has continued for over 25 years and has claimed more than 40,000 lives.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist group by the UN and the European Union.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
Baku, Azerbaijan, March 28

By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend:

Turkey and Russia have agreed on the observation flights that were cancelled Feb. 4, the Haber7 newspaper reported March 28 citing diplomatic sources.

Reportedly, a group of Russian observers were expected to fly over Turkey's territory on Feb. 1-5 under the Open Skies Treaty.

Earlier, spokesman for Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party, Omer Celik said the route of the observation flight, proposed by Russia, is a "speculation" against the backdrop of the crisis in the two countries' relations.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu
2007 Xian Autumn Real Estate Trade Fair (Photo : Getty Images)

Foreign-sounding names such as Park Avenue, Riviera, Yosemite, Palm Springs and Manhattan would soon no longer be allowed to be used by Chinese developers as names for the residential communities they are building.



Civil Affairs Minister Li Liguo said on Tuesday that foreign and bizarre-sounding names would soon be banned from being used to identify not only residential compounds but also roads, bridges and buildings, reported Xinhua News Agency. The use of foreign names, particularly in residential areas for the rich, has been criticized for makings its residents sound sophisticated and global.



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Certain types of names will be targeted, including names that damage sovereignty and national dignity, names that violate the socialist core values and conventional morality and names that produce the most public complaints, Li was quoted as saying.



Taipei Times reported that developers explained using international names help sell units. They cited a resort in Jackson Hole in the outskirts of Beijing that is known as Hometown America. In Beijing alone, theres a Le Man Lake Villa, Beijing Riviera, Chateau Regalia, International Wonderland, Merlin Champagne Town and Rose and Ginkgo.



Outside Beijing, Shanghai has a Thames Town and Dalian has Oriental Yosemite.



This is not the first time that Chinese officials had cracked down on foreign-sounding names. In Fuzhou City, officials ordered the change on the name of a housing development, Fontainbleau. The place was renamed Gaojiayuan, but one resident wrote to a local newspaper that she missed her bus stop when the name signs were changed.



On the opposite side, a YouTuber suggested how to choose a Chinese name for foreign brands doing business in China.






Remarried couples in Beijing can now have additional children, thanks to a new law the city passed. (Photo : Getty Images)

In China, children from ages 7-16 are most likely to stay up late surfing the Internet, according to a World Sleep Day survey.



The World Sleep Day was held last March 21 to promote awareness about insomnia.



The survey, launched by a local mobile social media platform, indicated that children are often holding onto mobile phones or tablets right before bedtime.



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Research also shows that over 70 percent of children in nine Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi'an and Wuhan, got too little sleep than what is required for their age and growth.



Xu Zhifei, a doctor at Beijing Children's Hospital, cites that this level of insufficient sleep might "hinder the development of their cognitive and study abilities."



In Shanghai, authorities have decided to push the time that school starts to eight in the morning. Following this shift, improvement in the students' study abilities has been reported.



Children in China are not the only ones affected by sleeping problems, as the China's workforce also face the same. People working in the PR, media and gaming industries rank top among those who stay up late, followed by workers in animation and investment fields, says the World Sleep Day survey.



"A daily sleeping pattern of seven to nine hours ensures the best quality of results for adults," says Yang Qingwu, a doctor of Xinqiao Hospital.



It was also revealed in a forum held recently by the Chinese Sleep Research Society that in China alone, around 17 million people suffer from various mental illnesses, which can be caused by sleep disorders. In China, the most common form of sleep disorder is insomnia, affecting about 30 percent of the population.



Jia Fujun, vice president of the Chinese Sleep Research Society, elaborates that long-term insomnia can cause depression.



"Long-term insomnia is a leading factor that may cause clinical depression," Jia said. "Those who suffer from insomnia have a higher rate of depression than those who do not."



The World Sleep Day was brought to China in 2001 by the Chinese Sleep Research Society.


Guo Guangchang, dubbed as the "Chinese Warren Buffett," founded Chinese investment conglomerate Fosun International Ltd. (Photo : Reuters)

Guo Guangchang, dubbed as the "Chinese Warren Buffett" and founder of Chinese investment conglomerate Fosun International Ltd., is hastening the overseas expansion of Fosun by acquiring the Thomas More Square complex in London for around 300 million pounds ($426.4 million), China Daily reported.



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Built in 1990, the complex is located on the edge of the City of London, and adjacent to the London City Airport and the St. Katherine Docks in Wapping on the north of the River Thames. Since 2014, most of the tenants of the complex have been Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. businesses.



The Thomas More Square complex has an estimated market value of 100 million pounds to 200 million pounds, and an annual net rent of around 9.7 million pounds, according to Land Securities Group Plc., the largest commercial property company in the United Kingdom, which currently holds 100 percent of the complex.



The report said that Land Securities refused to give details about the acquisition, while Fosun told China Daily on Wednesday, March 23, that the company is set to make an official announcement. However, no announcement were made until the market closed that day.



The acquisition, once finalized, is set to become Fosun's biggest real estate deal in Europe, the report said, as the company had already acquired London's Lloyds Chambers in 2013 and Milan's historic Palazzo Broggi last year.



The company had set up a joint venture called Resolution Property Investment Management with European investment firm Resolution Property last year. The company would act as Fosun's exclusive investment manager to buy interests in real estate assets across Europe.



Chinese companies interested in buying overseas properties, Europe is one of the best choices, Justin Taylor, head of EMEA retail at property service provider Cushman & Wakefield, said, adding that further improvements in the retail market, especially busy commercial areas in some parts of Europe, are expected to occur in the coming years.



"Indeed, a strong retail sales growth forecast, robust occupier demand and a lack of supply in many locations mean rents will keep rising in the most popular high streets," Taylor said.


Star Wars Battlefront is an upcoming action video game based on the Star Wars franchise developed by DICE and distributed by EA Games. (Photo : Facebook/Star Wars Battlefront)

New details for "Star Wars Battlefront" will feature more details on the virtual reality gameplay features for the PlayStation VR and free in-game credits for the game.



Electronic Arts announce that gamers who have logged in last weekend will be receiving free in-game credits for "Star War Battlefront" as the game's official Twitter page tweeted that the credits will be atleast 5,000 credits in celebration for the "Outer Rim" DLC in the game.



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The credits will be available for season pass holders only on the weekends since the "Outer Rim" DLC launch last week, while other areas will be receiving it on April 5, PlayStationLifeStyle reported. EA previously released a patch update for "Star Wars Battlefront" regarding a rank level 60 issue.



The "Outer Rim" DLC will feature two new characters, Nein Nunb for the Rebel Alliance and Greedo for the Galactic Empire. There are also new weapons such as the Relby V-10 rifle and DT-12 blaster pistol. In addition, players can collect and equip a Scatter Gun, Dioxis Grenade, and Adrenaline Stim Star Cards.



New maps are also introduced in the DLC featuring Jabba the Hutt's palace, the sail barge garage and Nunb's home planet of Sullust. New game modes such as "Extraction" which allow players to protect a package from Stormtroopers and "Spectator Mode" which is free for all players.



In other news, Sony revealed more details on virtual reality gameplay details for "Star Wars Battlefront" in their new VR head gear, the PlayStation VR.



Vice President of Marketing John Keller told Fortune that the PlayStaion VR could be a "killer app" for the system as Sony has been collaborating with EA, DICE, Lucasfilm and Disney to make the VR gameplay experience possible. Keller added that "Star Wars Battlefront" will be one of the many games that will kickstart that VR experience making it different from the average PlayStation 4 games.



Sony stated that there will be atleast 50 games for the PlayStation VR as the device will launch on October at $400 in the United States, 399 in Europe, and 349 in the United Kingdom.



"Star Wars Battlefront" is currently available in stores for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One and for the PC.


LG G5 vs iPhone SE: LG CEO says Apple's iPhone SE Not a threat; LG not interested in rolling out smartphones equipped with old technology

In a March 21 event, Apple Inc. unveiled their newest iPhone offering - the iPhone SE. (Photo : YouTube/Versus Mobiles)

In a March 21 event, Apple Inc. unveiled their newest iPhone offering - the iPhone SE. Clocking in at 4.7 inches, the iPhone SE is the company's smallest smartphone offering since the release of iPhone 6 in September 2014.



Apple's VP of Product Marketing Greg Joswiak has since gushed about the tech company's latest iPhone offering, as reported by The Guardian. According to Joswiak, the iPhone SE is a product of Apple enthusiast asking for a smaller phone. He claims that the soon-to-be released device is the most powerful 4-inch phone in history.



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The iPhone SE, which is possibly named after the Macintosh SE computer, is aesthetically similar to the iPhone 5s. The phone is equipped with a 4-inch screen, touch ID fingerprint and a metal body. Unlike the iPhone 5s, however, the iPhone SE would come in black, white, gold and the popular variation - rose gold.



The new Apple phone is expected to be available before the end of March. Unsurprisingly, much attention has been directed towards the upcoming release. As such, other smartphone manufacturers have spoken up about what the iPhone SE means for their own smartphone variants.



LG CEO Cho Juno has recently expressed his opinions about whether or not the iPhone SE would be a threat to the sales of LG products. According to Cho, as reported by Tech Times, he is not in the least bit worried about Apple's latest offering. He reveals that unlike Apple, LG is not interested in rolling out products with old technology.



Moreover, he explains that LG is in pursuit of making special and quality phones as opposed to just cost-effective ones. Cho reveals that unlike other smartphone manufacturers, LG is not as affected by product launches of other brands. The company is focused in producing only the best for its consumers.



"Cost-effectiveness is not what device makers necessarily pursue, but they should create a very special value and make something out of it. The same thing goes for us. That's why we do not care too much about a rival's product." quips Cho Juno.



LG is currently knee deep in preparation for the release of LG G5. The South Korean company's flagship phone is scheduled to be released in South Korea on March 31 and in the U.S. on April 1.



Watch the video below:




Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of US foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliance's overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.

President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trump's views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.

In another sharp departure from historic US policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.

The billionaire businessman, vying to win his party's nomination for the Nov. 8 presidential election, also said he might halt US purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so.

"NATO is obsolete," Trump said on ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It is ill-suited to fighting terrorism and costs the United States too much, he added.

"We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but it's going to be changed," he said.

On March 21, Trump said the United States should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.

Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but China's President Xi Jinping will.

Obama said the United States will review international efforts to combat Islamic State militants during the summit in the wake of the Brussels attacks.

Trump's chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz called the real estate mogul's views on NATO "catastrophically foolish." Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump is "out of his depth."

"Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all," Cruz said. "It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to IS," referring to the militant Islamic State group.

Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to IS group would be to "carpet bomb them into oblivion."

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Police officer Osama El-Kounayassi was previously sentenced to 15 years in jail for torturing to death detained suspect Sayed Belal

Related Egyptian national security officer acquitted in Sayed Bilal murder case

An Alexandria court sentenced on Sunday a police officer to three years in prison for torturing Salafist Sayed Belal to death, a ruling that marks a significant reduction in the officers previous prison sentence.

Osama El-Kounayassi of the notorious state security investigations department was sentenced in April 2013 to 15 years in prison on charges including torture leading to death after the officer attempted to extract confessions from Belal, whom police accused of helping to plot a 2011 suicide bombing at a Coptic Christian church in the port city of Alexandria.

El-Kounayassi won a retrial on appeal, and the most recent verdict may also be appealed in front of Egypts Court of Cassation.

El-Kounayassi has been out of prison since May 2015, when he was released after spending the maximum allowed time in detention while his second retrial was still ongoing.

He had previously been convicted in absentia in this case and was handed a life sentence, but was automatically granted a retrial upon turning himself in.

The first retrial resulted in the 15-year sentence, which he successfully appealed.

He is the last defendant in this case, which sparked public outrage over police brutality shortly before the 2011 revolution.

Four other police officers of the now disbanded state security department were eventually acquitted in the case after initially receiving sentences of life in prison.

The charges against the defendants included "murder, unlawful detention, torture to extract confessions, and indecent assault," lawyers had said.

Belal, one of seven victims in this case, was arrested along with other suspects after a bombing on 1 January 2011 killed 21 worshippers at a church in Alexandria.

Dozens of Islamists were arrested following the New Year's attack.

Police brutality was among the main grievances that galvanised public anger and led to the popular revolt that ousted long-time autocrat Hosni Mubarak in early 2011.

The death of Khaled Said, also from Alexandria, who was tortured to death by two police officers in June 2010, became a rallying call for the uprising.

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The journalist is among 215 supporters of the ousted Islamist President Mohamed Morsi who are being tried in the 'Helwan Brigades' case

Egypt's criminal court released on Monday a journalist accused of shooting a video showing masked men vowing to target police facilities in southern Cairo.

The journalist, Alyaa Awad, who was arrested in Alexandria in September 2014, works for the pro-Muslim Brotherhood news portal Rassd.

In August 2014, the self-proclaimed Kataeb Helwan (Helwan Brigades) militia appeared in a video published and circulated on social media networks in which they vowed to target all police facilities in Helwan, a southern suburb of Cairo.

Awad is among 215 supporters of ousted Islamist President Mohamed Morsi who are being tried in the Helwan Brigades case.

The defendants are charged with belonging to an outlawed group "calling for the violation of the constitution and the law, preventing the state from exercising its role, assaulting personal freedoms of citizens and harming national unity and social peace," according to judicial sources.

An administrative court refused on Sunday a lawsuit calling for the shutting down of the pro-Brotherhood Rassd news portal.

The lawsuit accused Rassd owner Amr Farrag of "spreading false news" aimed at attacking the state and its apparatuses.

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The court based its ruling on a previous ruling by the Supreme Constitutional Court that equated the legal status of churches to that of mosques

An Alexandria administrative court stopped on Monday an order to demolish a Church in Beheira governorate and banned the demolition of churches in Egypt.

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Rashid had sold a piece of land two decades ago that included small shops and a church.

The new owner later decided to demolish the church, claiming it was abandoned, but the Coptic Orthodox Church intervened to challenge the demolition and entered a legal dispute to stop the order for another decade.

"The Coptic Orthodox Church has already offered to buy this church in Rashid," Mounir Sami, the legal adviser of the Greek Patriarchate in Cairo, told Ahram Online.

Sami said that the sale of the church by the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate was legally invalid.

"Legally this church is considered of public benefit and should not be demolished or treated like [a common shop]," said Sami.

The administrative court stated in its ruling that churches cannot be demolished or used for anything other than worship.

It also added that the Greek Orthodox Church's decision to sell the church for the purpose of demolition was "against public order."

The court based its ruling on a previous ruling by the Supreme Constitutional Court that equated the legal status of churches to that of mosques.

Churches, like mosques, "are houses of worship that, once used for prayer, are no longer owned by people but are owned by God," the court stated in its ruling 12 years ago.

The court consulted with Al-Azhar  the foremost religious authority in the Sunni Muslim world  regarding the status of churches under Islamic law.

Al-Azhar stated that non-Muslims living in majority Muslim lands had a right to protect their places of worship, therefore churches are not to be demolished and are to be rebuilt if they are.

Pope Tawdros II used the opinion of Al-Azhar to argue his case.

The principles of Islamic Sharia are the main source of legislation according to the second article of the 2014 Egyptian constitution.

The administrative court also demanded that parliament as the main legislating power in Egypt draft a long-awaited law on the building of houses of worship, which many believe would solve numerous problems related to the status of churches in the country.

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More than 3,000 employees working with Egypt's parliament could be tested for drug use

An informed source with Egyptian parliament's secretariat-general disclosed Monday that all parliament staff, including an estimated 3,000 employees, will face mandatory drug testing in the coming days.

The source said the testing comes upon the request of the health ministry, which asked the parliament's speaker Ali Abdel-Al in an official letter that he approves a measure requiring all parliamentary to undergo mandatory drug testing.

"This is part of an overall government policy aimed at imposing mandatory drug tests on all employees in state offices and public authorities, including parliament, be they senior officials or low-ranking staff," said the source.

The source said the health ministry also requested that a special room in parliament be devoted to drug testing.

"The health ministry's special labs will take charge of conducting these tests next week to determine whether any of the employees use drugs," said the source, adding that "if anyone tested positive for drug use, he or she will face legal procedures."

Other anonymous sources indicated that the 594 MPs will not be subjected to mandatory drug tests.

MPs have already passed these tests as part of their registration for parliamentary elections last year, said the sources.

Meanwhile, parliament speaker Ali Abdel-Al and minister of international cooperation Sahar Nasr signed a "cooperation protocol" on Monday.

"The protocol aims at raising the technical and technological capacities of parliamentary employees in terms of modernising the archive system, improving the electronic voting system, storing information, and updating parliament's news website," Nasr said.

Nasr also indicated that parliamentary employees will receive intensive training on how to conduct research and opinion polls.

"Under the protocol, parliamentary employees will pay different visits to all Egyptian governorates to identify the needs and priorities of citizens and prepare reports on them to be used by MPs," Nasr added.

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Egypt has condemned in "strongest terms" the terrorist attack that targeted Christians gathering for Easter Sunday in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore, killing at least 70 people.

An Egyptian foreign ministry spokesman re-affirmed on Monday Egypt's position calling for the unity of the international community in facing this ''obnoxious phenomenon [of terrorism] that represents a threat to international peace and security," calling for firm action against such "criminal organisations" and their extremist and destructive ideas.

The spokesman in a Facebook statement expressed on behalf of the foreign minister his condolences to the families of the victims and his wishes of speedy recovery for the injured, asserting Egypt's solidarity with Pakistan in these "difficult times."

The Lahore bombing, which wounded at least 300 people, took place in a park crowded with families, with women and children among the victims.

A breakaway Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group, which supports the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing, telling the Associated Press that the attack was meant to target the Christian community and was a response to Pakistan's military operations in the country's tribal regions.

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Egypt's expatriate affairs minister Nabila Makram will travel to Sudan to look into the arrest of Egyptian students in the country over allegations of leaking high school exam papers, state-owned MENA news agency reported on Monday.

Egyptian Prime Minister Sherif Ismail asserted the importance of communicating with Sudanese authorities in coordination with the Egyptian embassy in Khartoum to resolve the issue and be informed constantly of developments.

Egypt's foreign ministry had earlier said that 26 Egyptian students were arrested by Sudanese authorities, according to the latest ministry information, though the exact nature of their alleged involvement is unclear.

Ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid said that Sudanese authorities also arrested students of other nationalities, accusing them of buying the questions of standardised tests and selling them to other students.

The Egyptian embassy in Khartoum has asserted the importance of releasing the students, especially since no clear charges have so far been filed against them, a statement by the foreign ministry read.

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Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed on Monday counter-terrorism efforts in a phone call with Bahraini King Sheikh Hamad bin Issa Al-Khalifah, state-owned MENA news agency reported.

According to Egyptian presidency spokesman Alaa Youssef, the two leaders discussed developments in the region, both stressing on the importance of strengthening Arab unity to secure Arab countries from threats and respond to any attempts of interference in domestic affairs.

They also stressed the need to work on restoring stability in countries that face terrorism and armed conflicts.

El-Sisi and Al-Khalifa also affirmed the depth of the relationship between the two countries and the continuation of cooperation between them, which is particularly important in the current period due to the different challenges the region is facing.

The Egyptian president has repeatedly said that Egypt will not hesitate to send troops to its Arab Gulf allies if needed to repel any security threat posed to those countries.

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Rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa have released nine Saudis in exchange for 109 Yemenis, the Riyadh-led coalition fighting them said Monday, in the latest sign of tensions easing before peace talks.

"Nine Saudi prisoners have been recovered and 109 Yemenis who were arrested in the military operations zone" near the border have been handed over, the coalition said in a statement.

It did not specify whether the prisoners were combatants or civilians.

The swap follows another exchange of one Saudi soldier for seven Yemenis earlier this month amid tribal mediation that has helped reduce violence along the Saudi-Yemeni border.

Efforts have been building to bring an end to the devastating conflict in Yemen, a year after the Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes against the Iran-backed Shia Houthi rebels.

UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed announced last week that the combatants have agreed to a cessation of hostilities from midnight on April 10, followed by talks in Kuwait on April 18.

Previous negotiations have failed and earlier ceasefires were not respected, but analysts say a more conducive atmosphere prevails ahead of the new round of talks.

Andreas Krieg of the Department of Defence Studies at King's College London said the prisoner swap is "a sign of Saudi goodwill" before the Kuwait negotiations.

It signals to the Houthis that Riyadh and its allies are "willing to make compromises to bring these talks to a successful end," said Krieg, who also teaches at the Qatari Armed Forces Staff College.

Adam Baron, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said "there is widespread hope that the upcoming Kuwait talks will function as a step in the right direction."

The coalition said Monday that border areas remained relatively calm.

It said it hoped to see the lull "spread to combat zones in order to facilitate the sending of humanitarian aid to all of Yemen's territory" and to support UN efforts to reach a political settlement.

In a rare incident that broke the calm, the Saudi Civil Defence agency said on Sunday that eight people, including four children, had been wounded by fire from Yemen.

More than 90 people have been killed on the Saudi side of the frontier by shelling and in skirmishes over the past year.

The Houthis seized Sanaa in September 2014 then advanced south, raising fears in Riyadh that the rebels would extend the influence of Shia Iran in the kingdom's southern neighbour.

Local forces backed by coalition ground troops have since pushed the Houthis out of five southern provinces and second city Aden, where President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has established a temporary capital.

But the rebels -- allied with elite troops loyal to Hadi's ousted predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh -- have held on elsewhere including the capital.

The United Nations says about 6,300 people have been killed in the war, more than half of them civilians.

On Sunday the World Health Organization said Yemen's civilians were undergoing "immeasurable suffering", including almost 2.5 million internally displaced.

Sunni extremists of the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have exploited the chaos, widening their footholds in Yemen's south and carrying out deadly attacks against both the Shia rebels and Hadi's loyalists.

Human rights groups have criticised the high civilian death toll from the coalition's bombing campaign and have called on Western governments to stop selling arms to Saudi Arabia.

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Syrian government forces backed by Russian air strikes battled Islamic State insurgents around Palmyra on Monday, trying to extend their gains after taking back control of a city whose ancient temples were dynamited by the ultra-radical militants.

The loss of Palmyra on Sunday amounts to one of the biggest setbacks for the jihadist group since it declared a caliphate in 2014 across large parts of Syria and Iraq.

The Syrian army said the city, home to some of the most extensive ruins of the Roman Empire, would become a "launchpad" for operations against IS strongholds in Raqqa and Deir al-Zor, further east across a vast expanse of desert.

Syrian state media said on Monday that Palmyra's military airport was now open to air traffic after the army cleared the surrounding area of IS fighters.

There were clashes northeast of Palmyra between IS and forces allied to the government, supported by Syrian and Russian air strikes, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the war.

Air strikes, believed to be Russian, also targeted the road running east out of Palmyra towards Deir al-Zor, it said.

Although most of the IS force fled Palmyra on Sunday, there were still some militants in the city, the Observatory said. Observatory director Rami Abdulrahman also said most residents fled before the government offensive and it had not heard about any civilian deaths.

On Sunday six explosions were heard triggered by triple car bombings inside the city and its fringes by the jihadist group. Three militants with suicide belts also blew themselves up, inflicting unspecified casualties among army forces and allied troops, the Observatory said.

Syrian state-run television broadcast from inside Palmyra, showing empty streets and badly damaged buildings.

Abdulrahman said 417 IS fighters were so far known to have died in the campaign to retake Palmyra, while 194 people were killed on the Syrian government side.

RUSSIAN WITHDRAWAL

Russia's intervention in September turned the tide of Syria's five-year conflict in Assad's favour. Despite Moscow's declared withdrawal of most military forces two weeks ago, Russian jets and helicopters carried out dozens of strikes daily over Palmyra as the army thrust into the city.

In a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Assad said Russia's air support had been essential in taking back Palmyra, and said the city would be rebuilt.

Russia said it would assist with securing and removing landmines in Palmyra following the campaign, but is still showing signs of its partial withdrawal from Syria.

Three heavy attack helicopters have left Moscow's Hmeimim air base in Syria for Russia, Russian state TV channel Rossiya-24 reported on Monday.

IS's ejection from Palmyra came three months after it was driven out of the city of Ramadi in neighbouring Iraq, the first major victory for Iraq's army since it collapsed in the face of an assault by the militants in June 2014.

IS has lost ground elsewhere, including the Iraqi city of Tikrit and the Syrian town of al-Shadadi in February, as its enemies push it back and try to cut links between its two main power centres of Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria.

On Friday the United States said it believed it had killed several senior IS militants, including Abd ar-Rahman al-Qaduli, described as the group's top finance official and aide to its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

There was fierce fighting around the IS-held town of Qaryatain on Monday, 100 km (60 miles) west of Palmyra, which the Syrian government has also been trying to retake. IS seized Qaryatain last August after taking Palmyra.

Syrian television broadcast footage from inside Palmyra's museum on Sunday showing toppled and damaged statues, as well as several smashed display cases.

Syria's antiquities chief said other ancient landmarks were still standing and pledged to restore the damaged monuments.

"Palmyra has been liberated. This is the end of the destruction in Palmyra," Mamoun Abdelkarim told Reuters on Sunday. "How many times did we cry for Palmyra? How many times did we feel despair? But we did not lose hope."

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Syria is willing to take part in an international coalition against terrorism but only if the United States will work with Damascus in a way it has not done so far, the Syrian envoy to Geneva peace talks said on Monday.

"The (US-led) international coalition did not succeed in Syria because it did not coordinate with the regime. Russia was successful because it coordinated with us," Bashar Ja'afari said in an interview with Lebanon-based al-Mayadeen TV.

"We are for the creation of an international coalition against terrorism, but in coordination with the Syrian government. We have no objection to working with America as long as it is done in coordination with Syria," Ja'afari said.

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Police in the United Arab Emirates city of Ajman say a fire has erupted at a high-rise tower, the latest in a series of skyscraper blazes in the Gulf nation.

The police gave no details on casualties in tweets confirming the blaze. Social media users shared images of the fire late Monday showing bright yellow flames spreading up the side of the building as chunks of burning material tumbled to the ground.

The Dubai-based Gulf News newspaper quoted Ajman Civil Defense director Brig. Saleh Saeed al-Matroushi as saying firefighters were at the scene.

An official reached by The Asscoiated Press at the civil defense confirmed that firefighting efforts were ongoing but had no further details.

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Rockets fired by Taliban fighters struck the compound of Afghanistan's new parliament on Monday as the country's top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior prepared to address the assembly.

Lawmakers said no one was reported wounded, contradicting Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid who said the militants' attack had caused heavy casualties.

"Three rockets were fired at the parliament but they did not hit the main building," said Safiullah Muslim, a lawmaker from Badakhshan province. "It happened when the session was ongoing."

A senior security official told Reuters that three long-range rockets were fired from a hilltop several hundreds metres from the parliament building.

The Taliban released an emailed statement along with several photographs of the attack which appeared to show a smoke rising from near the parliament in a western neighborhood of the capital Kabul.

In another photo, a small hole, and a damaged wall, apparently caused by the rockets could be seen.

"There was a clear negligence of duty and I am going to task security officials to provide tight security in and around the parliament," Taj Mohammad Jahid, the caretaker Minister of Interior told lawmakers.

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The United States will provide an additional $20 million (18 million euros) in aid for refugees in Europe, a senior US official said Monday.

Heather Higginbottom, US deputy secretary of state for management and resources, said this brings Washington's total commitment to Europe's migration crisis to $43.6 million since last year.

Most of the funds -- $17.5 million -- will be given to the UN refugee agency, Higginbottom said during a visit to Lesbos, the island that has experienced most of the refugee arrivals registered in Greece since 2015, where there are over 2000 refugees and migrants according to the Greek government.

The rest of the funds will be shared out between the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the UN population fund, she said.

Dozens of migrants awaiting repatriation from Greece held a protest on Monday at the registration hotspot of Moria prior to the US official's visit.

Standing behind wire fencing and under sizeable police guard, the migrants shouted "Freedom" and "Where are human rights?".

"Syrians and Iraqis are angry, they are saying that they did not come all this way to be deported," said Nolan Hussein, a 20-year-old from Pakistan.

"They have no information, only a piece of paper saying they are under detention," said Hussein, adding that owing to overcrowding at the camp, he shares a room with nine people.

Higginbottom was also in Greece for a closer look at the implementation of a March 18 deal between the European Union and Turkey to limit migration flows to the continent.

Arrivals fell this week, and Greek authorities have used the relative calm to put in place logistics to send people back to Turkey, including the deployment of 4,000 security personnel and asylum experts.

All new arrivals in Greece are being taken to registration centres set up on five Aegean islands. Those seeking asylum will stay there while their applications are considered by Greek and European officials.

Greece's police minister Nikos Toskas denied Monday that there were 50,000 people "trapped" in the country due to the closure of Balkan borders further north.

"Relocation...procedures might have been delayed but I believe they will begin soon and therefore I do not believe they are trapped (here)," Toskas told Real FM radio.

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A US Capitol Police officer was shot Monday at the Capitol Visitor Center complex, and the shooter was taken into custody, Capitol officials and police said.

The event unfolded with Congress on recess and lawmakers back in their districts.

It occurred in the Visitors Center of the sprawling Capitol Complex. Staffers, reporters and others were told to "shelter in place" and not allowed to leave their offices. The White House and the Capitol complex were put on lockdown.

The police officer who was shot was not believed to be seriously injured.

Capitol Police did not immediately return calls and no further information was available.

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The United Nations on Monday reported two new sexual abuse cases allegedly involving peacekeepers in the Central African Republic, one implicating a contingent from Burundi and the other a Moroccan soldier.

The latest cases raise to 25 the number of sexual abuse or sexual exploitation allegations received by the UN mission in the Central African Republic since the start of the year, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Six other cases of alleged sexual abuse by peacekeepers have been reported in other UN missions since the start of the year, he said.

Members of a Burundian peacekeeping unit based in the town of Sibut in the center of the country have been accused of involvement in the rape a 14-year-old girl, according to the UN spokesman.

The case was referred to the UN mission by UNICEF, the UN children's agency, Dujarric said.

The Moroccan soldier, who was not identified, has been accused of sexually exploiting an adult woman in February in the southern city of Bangassou.

The governments involved have been notified and Morocco said it would conduct an investigation, Dujarric said.

Faced with proliferating sexual abuse scandals involving UN peacekeepers, particularly in the CAR, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has vowed to repatriate entire units if necessary and the UN Security Council passed a resolution to that effect on March 11.

"Obviously that (repatriation) remains an open possibility for any contingent involved in systematic abuses," Dujarric said.

Burundi has 1,128 soldiers and police in the UN peacekeeping force in CAR and Morocco has 741. The mission has some 12,000 troops in all.

On Friday, the UN mission had said it received new allegations of sexual exploitation and abuses by UN and non-UN personnel in the Central African Republic's Kemo district in 2014-15. Those were separate from the cases announced Monday by United Nations, Dujarric said.

Of the 69 alleged sexual abuse cases reported by the United Nations in 2015, more than half were in just two of the 16 UN peacekeeping missions around the world. CAR accounted for 22 and the Democratic Republic of Congo 16.

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This year the biannual Spring festival honours Ezzedine Gannoun, one of the one of the founding members of Al Mawred Al Thaqafy

Al-Mawred Al-Thaqafy (Culture Resource) brings the global to the local in the seventh edition of its flagship festival, Spring, taking place between 28 April and running for a month.

With a programme showcasing a globally diverse line-up, the events will take place simultaneously in Beirut and Tunis.

This year will feature artists from China, India, Palestine, Mali, Syria, Tunisia, and Lebanon.

Mawreds biannual Spring festival started in 2004 as a means of celebrating their activities, and acting as a platform for audience and artists to engage and discuss important issues, such as artistic freedoms.

In past years, several editions of the Spring Festival also took place in Cairo, at the stage of El Genaina Theatre. This however has been halted when in November 2014 Al Mawred Al Thaqafy announced its suspension of activities in Egypt.

The festival particularly aims to reach out to artists who define art and lead change, presenting the creative and the unconventional.

In the past six editions of the festival, Spring has presented over 150 artists from more than 20 countries across all forms of arts.

Over the years the festival has grown to include international and contemporary artists across many fields- music, theatre, dance, visual arts, cinema, and literature.

The festival also acts as a space for international artists to gain exposure in the Arab region, and a space ripe for cross-cultural exchanges, connections and collaborations.

This edition is especially interesting to and unique for us, because we are introducing two new showcases within the festivals program that will focus the spotlight on the achievements of the artists and organizations that have benefitted from our programs over the years, said Rana Yazaji, the director of Culture Resource.

This years highlights will include four different showcases, Tazamon, Abbara, Red Zone and In Memory.

Tazamon is an initiative spotlighting the work of artists supported through Mawreds grants.

Abbara will feature the cultural organisations in Mawreds network, which have accomplished outstanding social interventions though their work.

Red Zone tackles the theme of overcoming barriers, freedom of expression, inclusion and dialogue, and showcases artists whose work deals with these subjects.

In Memory will honour Ezzedine Gannoun, an award-winning pioneer of Tunisian theatre and one of the founding members of Mawred, who passed away last year on 29 March.

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

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As the international scene marked World Theatre Day on 27 March, Egyptian creators launched a week full of events to celebrate 25 years of the country's independent theatre scene, with activities running till 2 April

Joining the international celebrations of World Theatre Day, which falls on 27 March, Cairos artists prepared their share of celebrations, to continue till 2 April, showcasing several theatre plays by the local independent troupes.

For Egyptian independent theatre, this occasion carries a number of additional important axes. This is the first such event organised by the special unit operating under the Supreme Council of Culture  one of the Ministry of Cultures divisions formed specifically to support Egypts independent theatre.

Moreover, the international celebrations coincide with the silver anniversary of Egypts independent theatre movement.

The celebrations launched on 27 March with an opening word by Amal El-Sabban, the secretary-general of the Supreme Council for Culture and board member of the independent theatre support unit.

A number of speeches from the independent theatre players followed, including words written by director Nora Amin and read by Sayed Fouad, as well as a speech by Hoda Wasfi, former director of Hanager Theatre and one of the well-known supporters of Egypts independent troupes.

The evening also comprised a reading of the Message of World Theatre written by the Russian director Anatoli Vasiliev specially for the occasion and translated and read by Hazem Azmi.

The message made available for download at the International Theatre Institutes website points to how important theatre is in social and personal lives.

Theatre can tell us everything The theatre has always been, and it will remain forever. It does not need any intermediary to work among human beings  it constitutes the most transparent side of light, it does not belong to either south, or north, or east, or west  oh no, it is the essence of light itself, shining from all four corners of the world, immediately recognisable by any person, whether hostile or friendly towards it, read some of many statements from Vasilievs short note.

Vasilievs words create a strong echo in Egyptian independent theatre players, especially now as they celebrate their silver anniversary. It is a time when those artists are remembering the many years during which they always struggled to confirm their presence and demand the right to work freely.

Since 1990, Egypts independent theatre had asked the Ministry of Culture for support, and it was only during the tenure of former minister Gaber Asfour (June 2014  March 2015) that the special fund addressing the independent troupes needs  on both logistical and financial levels  has been formed. It took the fund several additional months to actually begin operating.

Speaking of the independent troupes history, 1990 marks the moment when a dozen young theatre players objected to the Ministry of Cultures decision to cancel an edition of the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre (CIFET) following the eruption of the Gulf War (2 August 1990  28 February 1991). It was at this moment, however, that a number of angry theatre players proclaimed their independence from the ministry-dominated theatre scene.

In response to the young theatre makers, renowned theatre professors and critics Menha El-Batraoui and Nehad Selaiha organised an alternative festival, favouring the shows of young, now-independent players.

Many years later, in August 2006, Selaiha recalled those days in an article published in Al-Ahram Weekly.

"The meeting [opposing the cancellation] soon took a political turn and developed into a brainstorming discussion of the states control of the arts, its subsidising policies and treatment of the artists who work outside government cultural organisations.

"The meetings continued through September, spawning a fiery manifesto written by Khaled El-Sawi, and culminated in the declaration of the birth of a Free Theatre Movement and the launch of its 1st Free Theatre Festival at the small hall of the Opera House on 1 October. Though a clear-cut definition of an 'independent' or 'free' theatre group was not laid down in those early meetings, it gradually emerged through years of hard work and much trial and error."

Among the crucial troupes of this movement were Khaled El-Sawy's 'El-Haraka', Tarek Said's 'El-Doe', Mohamed Abdel-Khaleq's 'Atelier El-Masrah', Abir Ali's 'El-Mesharati', and Azza El-Husseini's 'El-Ghagar'.

Twenty-five years have passed quickly, and troupes and performances have multiplied.

The independent theatre created a strong independent artistic movement. Rebellious and provocative, it relied in big part on self-funding by its members as well as the support of Hanager Theatre headed by Hoda Wasfi.

Theatre celebrations will extend for one week and will include numerous events. The programme includes performances marking the history of independent groups since the 1990s until now.

"Through the selection of these shows, we want to offer to the public a wide range of productions representing different generations of independent theatre. In addition, we will also hold video screenings presenting older theatre performances by the independent troupes, commented Amr Qabil, director of the Fananeen Masreyeen (Egyptian Artists) group, which organises the events.

The opening performance was Thresholds of Homes  Tales from Upper Egypt, directed by Mahmoud Aboudoma and performed by the alternative theatre troupe.

The week will include numerous plays, video projections and an exhibition summarising Egypt's independent theatres 25-year history.

In addition, a series of workshops will be held.

Scenographer Hazem Shebl will lead a workshop at the Opera House Malak in Ramsis, and actor Hamada Shousha is organising a pantomime workshop at El-Ghouri centre.

Director Gamal Yakut will give a theatrical production workshop at the Supreme Council of Culture, while comedic actor Ahmed Mokhtar will hold an acting workshop at the Osiris art space.

Those interested in attending are to contact the locations holding the events.

Plays performed during the celebrations

Hanager Arts Centre, Cairo Opera Grounds, Zamalek, Cairo

Monday 28 March, 8pm

Fragments from the performances by El-Qafela troupe, directed by Effat Yehia

Tuesday 29 March, 8pm

Three performances and one troupe, directed by Mostafa Hozein

Wednesday 30 March, 8pm

Oscar and the Lady in Pink, directed by Hany ElMetennawy

Thursday 31 March, 8pm

Plastic Dream, directed by Shady El-Dali

Friday 1 April, 8pm

I Am Now Dead, directed by Hani Afifi

Saturday 2 April, 7pm

Stories of the Nile, directed by Gomaa Mohamed.

Saturday 2 April, 8pm

Still Here, an evening with Al-Warsha troupe, directed by Hassan El-Geretly



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The Brussels attacks illustrate the failure of European security and intelligence forces to confront and eliminate the threat of radicalised Islamist extremists

The setbacks of the Islamic State group (Daesh) in Syria and Iraq, under intensive air strikes by the international coalition led by the US, and Russian air strikes, forced Daesh to change tactics and launch attacks in Europe and the US for several reasons.

First, Daesh will to take revenge on any country that contributes to those air strikes. Second, it does not like to lose its image amongst its supporters and potential recruits as a strong and unstoppable power.

Last, but not least, it speeds its aims to build a global Islamic Caliphate that should not be confined to Syria and Iraq.

This article will analyse the reasons behind attacking Belgium and the significance of attacking countries other than France and Britain.

There are several overlapping reasons for striking Belgium now. First, it was reported that arresting Salah Abdel Salam might reveal future operations by Islamic State group cells in Europe. So the decision was taken to strike before those attacks were disrupted by security forces. In addition, it might be revenge for arresting the main suspect of the Paris attacks.

Police revealed that Abdel Salam provided information and his radical collaborators feared that their cover had been blown. They could not wait longer and took a quick decision. Their plans and determination were revealed in hitting two main targets, leading to 31 killed and more than 300 injured.

Second, Belgium sent more fighters per capita to the Islamic State group in both Syria and Iraq than any other European country. It is estimated that about 300 radical Islamists from Belgium left to Syria and Iraq, and some of them returned.

Those returnees included some of the Paris and Belgium attackers, such as Abdel Salam. So there are extremists who are inspired by Islamic State group ideology and are willing to launch attacks on European soil. Their being in Syria and Iraq helped communicate this extreme ideology, alongside other means.

It should be noted that it is easy to radicalise people in Belgium in streets, cafes and inside mosques in the absence of security mechanisms or laws to stop this recruitment process.

Third, Molenbeek area, which is close to Brussels, is a hotbed for radicals and extremism in Europe. Unemployment is high and reaches more than 40 percent. It is estimated that half of its population are Muslims and in some parts 70-80 percent are Muslims. Many suspects of both the Paris and Belgium attacks came from this area. Abdel Salam himself was hiding for long time in this area before his arrest 18 March. Sheikh Bassam Ayachi, who was considered a radical preacher in Molenbeek, talked about marginalisation of Muslims in the area.

This desperate situation led some to turn to religion while they were in prison, and they were radicalised by hatred against Western society.

Some Muslims do not feel a belonging to their countries of origin, such as Morocco, or their new home, Belgium. The crisis of identity and feeling of marginalisation is one of the main factors for Molenbeek becoming a jihadi heaven in Europe.

Fourth, the failure of Belgian security and intelligence forces is staggering. Turkey deported one of the two brothers (Brahim El-Bakraoui) to the Netherlands last summer because he wanted to cross to Syria through Turkey in order to join Daesh. Turkey warned Belgium that he was a foreign fighter. He was not arrested because there was no evidence of him committing terrorist acts or joining the Islamic State group. Hence he was not considered a security threat to Belgium. It is hard to understand the outlook of the Belgian authorities in this regard. While the Belgian interior and justice ministers handed in their resignations, admitting serious negligence in the handling of radical Islamists, their resignations were rejected.

In addition, Europol, the EU police agency, is not efficient in tackling radical Islamists. The director of Europol said that 5,000 suspects have been radicalised in Europe and the network of jihadists in Europe is more extensive than expected.

In this context, the French president, Francois Hollande, called for better intelligence sharing between EU member states. But it can be argued in defence of security forces in Belgium that their number is 12,000 and they are stretched to protect many important organisations, such as the EU, NATO and other institutions.

Fifth, Belgium was known to be on the list of targets by the Islamic State group. The video that was released by the group confirms that. It said that, "The crusaders' aircrafts, including Belgiums, continue to bomb. Every Muslim who is well aware of the history of Islam knows that the holy war against infidels is an integral part of Islam.

Other countries will follow and my guess is that Britain might be next, because of the many soft targets there and the presence of 3,000 jihadists in the streets of Britain, according to security sources.

Sixth, the desperation of the attackers sheds light on the psychology of those extremists. The police found a note by Brahim El-Bakraoui, the suicide bomber at the airport, that read, I do not know what to do. I am in a hurry. I am on the run. People are looking for me everywhere, and if I give myself up I will end up in a cell.

He was imprisoned before for armed robbery and he did not want to return to prison. At the same time, some of the attackers appeared confused and joined the Islamic State group for money or identity, but not necessarily on a religious basis.

Finally, radical Islamists exploit civil rights and freedoms in many cases. Belgian Foreign Minister Didier Reynders insisted on achieving a balance between civil rights and security. Unfortunately, the upper hand is for civil rights over security, and this is abused by extremists and the Islamic State group.

It should be noted that the two brothers, Brahim and Khalid El-Bakraoui, were on the American terrorist watch list. This shows the short-sighted approach of security forces in Europe on eradicating the threat of radical Islamists.

Terrorist attacks took place in Madrid 2004 and the UK in 2005, Paris 2015 and Belgium 2016. These attacks illustrate the inability of Europe to stop home-grown radical Islamists and disrupt their past and future plans. I will discuss in coming articles ways to weaken the sources of radicalisation that lead to terrorist atrocities like those in Brussels and Paris.

The writer is expert in Islamic movements.

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(Beijing)  About three-quarters of Chinese students studying abroad have returned home after finishing school in recent years, the Ministry of Education said on March 25.

Statistics released by the ministry showed that 523,700 Chinese students went overseas to study in 2015, 14 percent more than the year before. Some 409,100 students returned home last year.

From the start of reform and opening in 1978 until December last year more than 4 million students studied abroad, the report said. The average annual growth in the number of students heading to other countries to study was about 20 percent.

Britain, the United States, Australia, South Korea, Japan, France and Germany are the top destinations, it added.

The number of "haigui," or sea turtles, a Chinese homonym used to describe returnees from overseas, has risen to around 70 to 80 percent in recent years, the report said.

Nearly half of returnees surveyed by the ministry last year said they would like to find jobs in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. The figure dropped 8 percent from 2013.

Qi Mo, an official at the Ministry of Education, attributed the decline to an increase of students from smaller cities who are able to go abroad as incomes rose. This means these students are more likely to work in their hometowns after they come back.

Smaller cities are also offering generous subsidies and perks to lure haigui away from large cities, where the job market is fierce and the chance to get household registration documents needed for health care and education, is meager, he said.

Nearly 30 percent of survey respondents worked for foreign companies in China, the report said. One-fifth were employed by state-owned enterprises and 17 percent worked for private firms.

However, haigui are finding that foreign diplomas are no longer as attractive to employers as they once were. Some Net users have even taken to calling unemployed returnees "haidai," or seaweed.

For those who did find a job, about half of those with a bachelor's degree earn less than 5,000 yuan a month, and 86.6 percent of the ones with a master's degree make less than 10,000 yuan, according to a report released by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, an inter-governmental organization for policy analysis, in October.

Zhou Rong, a director of a Beijing-based company that helps students apply to schools abroad, said the government should be careful about an "oversupply of haigui," who spent a fortune on degrees from universities of dubious quality that do little to enhance their job prospects.

(Rewritten by Chen Na)
(Beijing)  China is to impose new tax rules on cross-border e-commerce that experts say will increase the cost of many items such as food, health care products and low-price cosmetics.

From April 8, buyers of all imported goods purchased online must pay most of a 17 percent value-added tax and a consumption tax, if applicable, according to a policy released on March 24 by the Ministry of Finance, the General Administration of Customs and the State Administration of Taxation.

In the past, buyers would pay only a "postal articles tax" with rates ranging from the most common 10 percent to 50 percent. Goods imported in bulk through other channels are subject to a tariff as well as value-added and consumption taxes.

The difference created unfair competition among traders that the policy aimed to address, the government said. The new rules will also eliminate a duty-free exemption for goods whose tax payable does not exceed 50 yuan. Packages whose value exceed 2,000 yuan and goods mailed to one person in excess of 20,000 yuan every year will be taxed more heavily as general trade items.

"For cross-border shopping firms that relied solely on differing tax rates under preferential policies for e-commerce, the times ahead will be tough because their business model will collapse if they don't transform quickly," said Zhang Zhendong, CEO of bolo.me, a cross-border e-retailer.

The new policy will increase "the tax burden for items such as mom and baby products, food and health care products," the international arm of Tmall, Alibaba Group Holding's shopping website, told Caixin in an email.

"Cosmetics and electric appliances, depending on their prices, will see either more or less taxes," it said.

"Low-cost cosmetics, especially those imported from South Korea, each priced under 100 yuan," will suffer most, Niu Wenyi, partner at a firm that lets Chinese consumers buy goods overseas. He said the policy would increase the cost of such cosmetics, which account for a big portion of cross-border e-retails, by more than 30 percent.

The impact would be huge, too, on mother-and-baby products, food and commodities for everyday use, he said.

Niu said the policy would make health care products more expensive, but sales may not be affected much because consumers in this category value quality more and are less sensitive to price changes.

The same cannot be said of many other items. In its email, Tmall said it had been consulted by the government's policymakers regarding the impact of the new rules and said they would increase the demand for smuggled goods.

Although the government did not say how it would address the smuggling problem, customs officials were expected to examine more undeclared parcels than they used to, said Liu Nan, founder and CEO of cross-border e-commerce platform mia.com.

(Rewritten by Wang Yuqian)
Fresh off his sweep of three Democratic caucuses, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders on Sunday declared his campaign has momentum and can now see a "path toward victory" over his rival, ex-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

"We are going to win this nomination process," a confident Sanders told ABC, a day after winning by large margins over Clinton in the western states of Washington, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Even with the victories, Sanders faces a difficult challenge in catching up to the frontrunner Clinton.

Clinton still leads by just under 300 pledged delegates, which are allocated according to voting results. She also has the support of most of the so-called super delegates, which are free to support any candidate.

 Rejects Calls to Drop Out

Many political observers have said Clinton's lead is insurmountable, and argue Sanders should drop out and allow her to focus on the eventual Republican presidential nominee. Sanders on Sunday rejected those calls.

"I think the momentum is with us," Sanders said on CNN. "A lot of these super delegates may rethink their positions with Secretary Clinton."

Sanders has won five of the last six states, all located in the western part of the country. Clinton dominated the southern states earlier in the nominating contest calendar.

Democrats compete next on April 5 in Wisconsin and again April 9 in the sparsely populated state of Wyoming. Clinton is focusing on April 19 when voters in New York, the state she once represented as a senator, decide how to allocate their 291 delegates.
A British exit from the European Union would significantly weaken the bloc's security, David Petraeus, a former U.S. military commander and CIA director wrote on Sunday, urging Britons not to vote to leave the union at a June referendum.

The comments, days after suicide bomb attacks killed 31 people in Brussels, support one of the British government's key arguments in its campaign to win over undecided voters -- that the country is safer inside the 28-country bloc.

"I encourage my British friends to think twice before withdrawing from one of the most important institutions that undergirds Western strength - the European Union," Petraeus wrote in the Sunday Telegraph newspaper.

Polls show that public opinion is evenly split on whether to remain in the bloc. Survey results differ according to the methods used to canvas opinion, but polls last week suggested that support for an exit was rising and showed that many voters remain undecided.

Britain will vote in a referendum on the question on June 23.

He said that whilst a retreat into the "perceived safety of isolation" was tempting, history had shown such decisions were a strategic dead end.

"There is no question in my mind that a "Brexit" would deal a significant blow to the EU's strength and resilience at exactly the moment when the West is under attack from multiple directions," Petraeus wrote.

Former security chiefs are divided on the impact of a British exit.

Michael Hayden, ex-director of the CIA and the National Security Agency said on Friday that leaving the EU would have a limited impact on British security, and former UK foreign intelligence chief Richard Dearlove has said there could be security gains from an exit.
As Belgian riot police marched into formation accompanied by water-trucks, the crowd on the steps of the stock exchange in Brussels cheered. Right-wing activists some locals call "fascists" had arrived at the quiet memorial to those killed in last week's terror attacks, shouting anti-immigration slogans and performing Nazi salutes.

"Always when there is something positive, they come to make it horrible," said Monique Starck, a Belgian homemaker, who was hurried off just as the gathering started to look like a riot. Since the bombings on Tuesday that killed at least 28 people and wounded about 300, mourners have been in this square to express their solidarity with the victims.

After the right-wingers stormed the square, a few bottles and punches were thrown, loud flares were set off and the police, the army and other security forces surrounded the mayhem. For the most part, the group, calling itself "Casuals Against Terrorism," and the people already in the square to mourn confined the violence to intense verbal clashes.

Water cannons finally dispersed the group after they were pushed back towards the train station, over-turning trash bins and braking bottles along the way.

A "March Against Fear" scheduled to take place Sunday was canceled because authorities said the gathering would draw resources away from the investigation into Tuesday's attacks. But a group of mourners still gathered in a square in the city center.

Even before the activists arrived, some locals noticed army and police presence was heavy in the area compared to recent days.

"When I see so much security, I get scared," said Mustafa Mohammad, an Iraqi refugee, wondering why the police seemed more concerned than the day before.

The Belgian capital remains on edge, as several of those involved in the plot remain on the loose. But investigators appear to have made several advances in the case in recent days.

On Sunday, Brussels police carried out 13 new raids in and around the capital, detaining nine people for questioning in connection with terrorism. Five were later released, the federal prosecutor said.

The statement gave no information about the searches and did not specifically mention the Brussels attacks, which killed 28 people, as well as three suicide bombers.
Time changes just about everything.

And, just like their song "Time Is On My Side," the Rolling Stones have apparently lived long enough to see Cuba change its stance on the legendary group's music.

The communist island once banned the music of the Rolling Stones because it was considered subversive, but on Friday night the band gave a historic, free concert in Havana before possibly a half million jubilant fans. Those who could not get in watched the concert from rooftops overlooking the venue.

Mick Jagger strutted on stage as the band launched into its first song of the night -- "Jumpin' Jack Flash."

"After today I can die," said night watchman Joaquin Ortiz. The 62-year-old said he has been a huge rock fan since he was a teenager in the 1960s, when Cuba's communist government frowned on U.S. and British bands and he had to hide his Beatles and Stones albums in covers borrowed from albums of appropriately revolutionary Cuban groups. "This is like my last wish, seeing the Rolling Stones."
North Korea practiced a massive artillery strike on key government facilities in Seoul last Thursday, mobilizing some 100 long-range artillery pieces.

The North's official Rodong Sinmun daily covered the live-fire drill in Wonsan, Gangwon Province on four of its six pages on Friday, illustrated with no fewer than 41 photos.

A picture on the front page shows leader Kim Jong-un inspecting an artillery unit and pages 2 through 4 were covered with photos of long-range guns, placed in two rows along the coast, firing shots.

The paper said the drill "aimed at annihilating and devastating Cheong Wa Dae and reactionary governing agencies in Seoul."
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister Yo-jong appears to have risen to a position of considerable power in the secretive regime.

Kim Yo-jong now holds a key post in the Workers Party's department in charge of promotions and appointments.

A source said Kim Yo-jong's husband is a university professor in Pyongyang and comes from an ordinary background, denying recent rumors that she is married to the son of senior official Choe Ryong-hae.

Kim Yo-jong rose quickly through the party ranks and consolidated her position, thanks to her quick wit and natural political acumen. Since September last year, she has been her brother's de facto secretary, with most documents being submitted for approval by Kim passing through her desk, according to some intelligence sources.

Senior officials like Army politburo chief Hwang Pyong-so now salute her.

"Rumors began spreading late last year that the fastest way of getting Kim Jong-un's attention is to go through Kim Yo-jong," the source said. "She's gaining power by controlling the information and deciding who gets to contact him."


Illegal immigrants will be temporarily exempted from a re-entry ban if they voluntarily leave the country, the Justice Ministry said Sunday.

But the ban will be extended to five years for those who fail to leave, and their employers will also be punished.

So far the ministry has exempted illegals who stayed less than a year from entry bans if they left voluntarily, while those who stayed for more than a year were banned from coming back for up to two years.

Illegal aliens who want to leave should bring a passport and airplane/boat ticket to the airport or harbor immigration office.

As of the end of December last year, 1.9 million foreigners were staying in Korea, 214,000 or 11.2 percent illegally, the ministry said.
President Park Geun-hye's assets grew a whopping W350 million last year to W3.5 billion (US$1=W1,171).

That was mainly because the value of her house in Seoul's Samseong-dong shot up W170 million, while her bank deposits increased by W180 million thanks mainly to proceeds from her autobiography and salaries.

Her house is valued at W2.53 billion and she has W989 million in her bank accounts.

Park apparently saves most of her W200 million salary she receives. Her total assets have grown by almost W1 billion since she was inaugurated in 2013.
Chinese private enterprise helps overseas investment in Europe

By:Jiang Wenran | From:english.eastday.com | 2016-03-24 17:58

Shanghai, March 24  A large number of private enterprises recently start their layout of the overseas market under the implementation of the one belt and one road national strategy.

Jinke Investment Holding Group, a Shanghai based private enterprise yesterday signed a strategic cooperation agreement with West Hungary Innovation Center.

Hungary became another important way for Chinese citizens to realize their European dream: according to the agreement, with 250,000-euro investment, you can obtain the Hungarian Spa Town Holiday Villa property as well as permanent residence in the European Union.

Chinas overseas investment of real estate in 2015 reached around USD $25 billion, 46% increase compared to 2014. Promoted by the national policy of one belt and one road, some foreign countries have become new highlight destinations of Chinese overseas buyers.

As the first European country signed the One Belt and One Road cooperation document with China, Hungary enjoys good economic foundation and perfect welfare system. Edit Banyasz, consul of Hungary in Shanghai introduced that Hungary now has preferential policies on tax and policy subsidies to attract foreign investment.

We will become the only domestic partner with West Hungary Innovation Center and sole agent of European tourism real estate, business immigrants in Hungary, Austria and Germany as well as tourism cooperation business of 58 JUFA group hotels, said Li Zhun, the chairman of Jinke Group.

The partnership will provide convenience for our center to do business in China, said Song Hao, co-partner of West Hungary Innovation Center during the interview with reporter from Eastday.com. He confirmed that the cooperation will deepen the friendly relations between the two countries and help build a corridor linking China and Europe.
President Xi Jinping meets Czech President Milos Zeman in Beijing on Sept 4, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Relations between China and the Czech Republic have intensified in the last two years, as demonstrated by the upcoming fourth meeting between President Xi Jinping and Czech President Milos Zeman since February 2014.

The meeting will be held in Prague during Xi's visit to Czech from Monday to Wednesday, which is his first visit, as China's president, to a Central or Eastern European country. It will also be the first time the Czech Republic, as an independent state, will receive a Chinese president.

Bilateral relations have experienced a dramatic upswing, attaining more importance in each country's foreign policy reflected in a marked shift in ties.

From previously criticizing China on Tibet and human rights, since 2013 Zeman and the new Czech government of the Czech Social Democratic Party have sought to pursue a more pragmatic foreign policy towards and economic cooperation with China. The first meeting between Xi and Zeman was held during the Sochi Winter Olympic Games in 2014, symbolizing a "reset" in relations.

Indeed, both sides have expended efforts to improve bilateral relations and reappraise their mutual importance. In 2012, China proposed and pushed forward cooperation with 16 Central and Eastern European countries, including the Czech Republic, as part of the 16+1 cooperation framework.

In the same year, the Communist Party of China and the Czech Social Democratic Party institutionalized bilateral contacts. In particular, China's Silk Road Economic Belt initiative, announced in 2013, has catalyzed prospects for strengthening economic cooperation with countries connecting China with Europe. And the Czech Republic's geographical location at one end of the new Silk Road makes it important for China.

Compared with its peers in the Visegrad Group, namely Poland and Hungary, the Czech Republic's economic relations with China got off to a relatively slow start. But last year it became the second-largest trade partner of China among Central and Eastern European countries.

Significantly, in 2015, a huge package of investments, encompassing the fields of finance, manufacturing, aviation, food, media and sports, was accomplished by the Chinese private enterprise, China CEFC Energy Company Limited. And this month, the China-CEEC Investment Cooperation Fund bought 95 percent of the stock in Energy 21, the Czech Republic's second-largest photovoltaic power plant operator.

According to Zeman's projection, Chinese investments in the Czech Republic will increase by about $1.8 billion in the near future. The country is also set to play the role of a key hub for Chinese tourism and logistics in Central and Eastern Europe.

Additionally, the construction of the Danube-Oder-Elbe canal will probably represent the first infrastructure collaboration project between the two countries. This could herald future 16+1 cooperation in the context of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

But warming bilateral relations are being challenged by developments in the Czech society and domestic politics. Prague's more pragmatic diplomacy toward Beijing has not gained political consensus in the Czech Republic and come under attack from several quarters, including some conservative politicians from right-wing parties, civil society and the media. This has cast some doubts on future cooperation in the Belt and Road Initiative.

Therefore, it is necessary to build mutual political trust, align national strategies, implement cooperation in infrastructure and complementary capacity, and increase people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

On an optimistic note, Xi's visit to the Czech Republic will create ample opportunities to showcase the growing importance of bilateral relations with the inking of more than 20 agreements on cooperation projects. It will also give Czech people the opportunity to get to know more about China. A new phase of China-Czech cooperation is set to begin.

The author is an associate researcher at the Central Compilation & Translation Bureau.
With Sunday's success, ISRO put behind the anomaly experienced in its August 7 Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) mission, that had then made the satellites unusable.
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Exclusive Interview with Mrs. V Vera Jourova  EU Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality

EUBULLETIN: You became a Commissioner when the proposal for the Maternity Leave Directive had already been debated in the Commission for quite a few years. Dont you think that this new and other similar pieces of legislation that call upon some Member States governments to increase their spending will be refused if only because of the economic crisis in the Eurozone that is still resonating?

Commissioner Jourova: Yes, but the last years figures indicate that the crisis is basically over. However, in general, every piece of legislation either coming from Brussels or from the Member States, when it has budgetary implications, namely increasing budgetary expenditures, faces big problems. It always faces this barrier and I can only mention another piece of legislation  the Equal Treatment Directive, which introduces a new arrangement for the physically handicapped people on the wheelchairs to get access to houses, which requires reconstructions of buildings, including public buildings. So, I face big problems also in this area  not because we think that people should be discriminated against but it is because it involves spending more money from the state budget.

EUBULLETIN: Talking about handicapped people, part of your agenda also deals with discrimination as such. What are, in your opinion, the most rampant examples of discrimination in the European society of today? Are there major differences in the nature and areas of discrimination between older EU members and those newer ones from post-communist countries in Central and Eastern Europe?

Commissioner Jourova: I think that some Member States somehow tend to be more tolerant than others. In this context, Netherlands was always my great example and ideal. It was also probably because I visited this country when I was 17 and I saw there how they treated people on the wheelchair and mentally handicapped people, which I had really never seen in any totalitarian society of the former communist block. It gave me the impression that Netherlands is a happy society where the healthy people care for the handicapped ones.

But, of course, to make this kind of comparison could be difficult. Still, I think there are increasing tensions and intolerance in different European societies. We tend to solve problems with hate speech and we also use very ugly expressions against some groups in the society, be it the Jews or the Roma or Muslims  unfortunately, these minorities often face discrimination from the so-called mainstream society.

EUBULLETIN: In your view, should this problem be dealt with only at the Member State level or also at the EU level?

Commissioner Jourova: I think that since this is a pan-European problem, it should be dealt with also by the European Union, which is also why have come with anti-discrimination legislation. And it does not have to be only minorities that we have so far discussed, but there are more not-so-obvious forms of discrimination, such as against elderly people. This problem probably differs state by state and when I was a Czech politician, I already criticized this in the Czech Republic that we should show more dignity and respect to older people because we are not only a society of young, healthy, beautiful people.

EUBULLETIN: But I suppose that only drafting new legislation does not change the deeply entrenched perceptions and attitudes in the European society.

Commissioner Jourova: I am quite skeptical with respect to the hard legislation  it is needed but to successfully fight all kinds of discrimination in the society, the legislation must be accompanied by campaigns and whenever I speak about this issue, I always mention also the role of the media in shaping public perceptions. And here I remember the campaign Dont Touch My Granny! about five years ago in which some young actors posed with their grandmothers and the message was that they loved and stood up for their grandmothers. And I was so happy when I saw it. I believe that younger people often tend to underestimate the important role that older people play in the society.

EUBULLETIN: Still, doesnt this phenomenon have also something to do with the generally declining role of the family in European societies?

Commissioner Jourova: I think that one of the illustrations of how older people are lonely and not enough attention is paid to them is when you see how often they are subject to various scams, including shark businesses that use horrible, aggressive practices trying to sell cheap junk to them for exorbitant prices. And here the society calls for legislation. I remember myself writing to newspapers in an effort to contribute to public discussion about these unethical practices, calling on the policymakers to deal with the situation because, as I argued, it was also their own parents and grandparents who were exposed to these kinds of risks. Ultimately, we should not only blame these shark businesses but also the families who sometimes leave their parents without proper care and attention.

EUBULLETIN: Mrs. Jourova, thank you very much for the interview.

Commissioner Jourova: You are welcome.
Rescue workers move a body from the site of a blast outside a public park in Lahore, Pakistan, March 27, 2016.[Photo/Agencies]

ISLAMABAD - At least 69 people including a large number of women and kids were killed and over 300 others injured when a suicide bomber hit a public park in Pakistan's east Lahore city on Sunday evening, officials said.

Deputy Coordination Officer Lahore, Captain Usman, said that the killed people included 23 kids whereas 56 injured children were shifted to various hospitals of the city.

Haider Ashraf, the Deputy Inspector General Police, said that the suicide bomber blew himself up in the parking stand near the gate of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in the Lahore city, the capital of the country's east Punjab province.

He said that the stand was located near the kids' swing area and ticket booth and the bomber chose it to explode himself for targeting a large number of people in which he succeeded.

He said that the park was crowded than usual due to Sunday's holiday and a number minority Christian people was also visiting it to celebrate the Easter festival, when the blast happened.

A Pakistan Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack in Lahore that killed over 60 people and injured over 300 on Sunday.
Xi set to begin historic visit to Czech Republic Updated: 2016-03-28 10:16 By An Baijie in Beijing(chinadaily.com.cn)

President Xi Jinping leaves Beijing for an historic visit to the Czech Republic on Monday morning.



The three-day trip will be the first state visit by a Chinese president either to the Czech Republic or the former Czechoslovakia in 67 years  since the founding of the People's Republic of China.





Shortly after he arrives in Prague, Xi will be greeted by Zeman at the Lany chateau, west of Prague, where the two presidents will plant a tree, according to the Czech Presidential Office.

Xi will be the first foreign president to be welcomed at the chateau, the country residence of the Czech president.

Xi is scheduled to meet with Czech President Milos Zeman and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka for formal talks on Tuesday.

The release of a joint declaration on a strategic partnership is expected to be the main outcome of the visit. About 20 agreements ranging from investment, finance, aviation to healthcare are expected to be signed. Zeman has said that he expects Chinese investment of 45 billion crowns ($1.84 billion).

The Czech News Agency reported that the joint declaration will include enhancing cooperation on finance, including the Czech Republic's interest in becoming a center for Chinese financial institutions in the region.
March 28 (Reuters) - An American Airlines co-pilot was charged on Monday with drinking before a weekend flight out of the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, prosecutors said.

John Maguire, 50, was in the cockpit for the Philadelphia-bound flight on Saturday morning when he was detained, Maria Miller, assistant prosecuting attorney of Wayne County, Michigan, said.

Maguire, from Pennsylvania, has not been arraigned, Miller said. He was released the day of his arrest.

Maguire could not immediately be reached for comment.

Police at the Detroit airport twice had Maguire blow into a breathalyzer, and each time his readings exceeded the legal limit, airport spokesman Michael Conway said on Saturday.

The Federal Aviation Administration prohibits pilots from flying with blood alcohol content higher than .04, according to the regulator's website. The FAA said in a statement on Saturday that it was investigating the incident.

American Airlines spokeswoman Laura Nedbal said on Saturday that Maguire's flight was canceled and passengers were put on other flights.

(Reporting by Curtis Skinner in San Francisco; Editing by Richard Chang)
The Avon Products headquarters is seen in midtown Manhattan area of New York, June 21, 2013. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

(Reuters) - Cosmetics maker Avon Products Inc (AVP.N) has agreed to give Barington Capital Group LP the right to approve the appointment of an independent director, in a bid to avoid a proxy fight with the activist investor.

The nominee would have to be jointly selected by Avon and its top investor, Cerberus Capital Management, to whom Avon sold a majority of its North America business earlier this month.

"We are pleased to have reached this settlement agreement with Barington, which allows us to avoid a potential proxy contest," said Chan Galbato, Avon's non-executive chairman.

The Barington Capital-led group has also agreed to withdraw its nominations for the Avon board elections to be held during the annual shareholder meeting scheduled for May 26.

Under the deal, Barington would vote in favor of all Avon nominees at the meeting. However, in the absence of a standstill agreement, Barington is not prohibited from agitating against the company in other matters.

The group, which owns more than 3 percent of Avon, had proposed a restructuring of the company in December, calling the appointment of Sheri McCoy as CEO a "mistake".

Avon has been struggling to reverse a steady decline in sales as the 130-year old pioneer of direct-selling loses favor to bigger players such as Estee Lauder Cos Inc (EL.N) and other more exclusive brands, triggering discontent among its investors.

Avon said earlier this month it would cut 2,500 jobs and shift its headquarters to the UK, to which Barington said there was "still much more that needed to be done to improve the business".

Avon replaced half of its board when it agreed to sell a 19 percent stake to Cerberus Capital in December, adding three Cerberus executives to its board, including Galbato as non-executive chairman.

Shares of Avon, which named former FedEx Corp (FDX.N) executive Cathy Ross to its board on Monday, rose as much as 9.1 percent to $4.67.

(Reporting by Yashaswini Swamynathan in Bengaluru; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta and Anupama Dwivedi)
Brussels (AFP) - Belgian riot police fired water cannon to disperse far-right football hooligans who disrupted mourners at a shrine for victims of the Brussels attacks, as police arrested several suspects in a series of new raids.

In scenes that compounded a week of grief for Belgians, black-clad protesters shouting anti-immigrant slogans moved in on the makeshift memorial at Place de la Bourse where hundreds of people had gathered in a show of solidarity.

Under-fire Belgian authorities meanwhile detained four terror suspects after carrying out 13 raids as they seek to round up a web of jihadists with links to the carnage in the Belgian capital and to attacks and plots in France.

The clashes between the far-right demonstrators and police underscored the tensions in Belgium after Tuesday's Islamic State suicide attacks on the airport and the metro system in which 31 people died and 340 were wounded.

"This is our home" and "The state, Daesh accomplice" around 300 hooligans chanted, using an alternate term for IS, as they gathered near the square by the stock exchange building, AFP journalists witnessed.

Some trampled on the carpet of flowers, candles and messages left at the site by mourners in recent days while at least one wore a mask with a well-known far-right symbol.

Police urged the mourners, who included some Muslims, not to provoke the hooligans, but some chanted "Fascists! Fascists! We're not having it!"

Riot police with helmets and shields corralled the hooligans before dispersing them with high power water jets, and marshalling them onto trains out of the city.

Around 10 people were arrested, police told AFP.

The mourners gathered despite the fact that organisers had earlier called off a "March Against Fear" in Brussels on Easter Sunday at the request of Belgian authorities, who said police needed the resources for the attacks investigation.

- Death toll rises -

Meanwhile, the Belgian Crisis Centre said 31 people had died in the airport and metro attacks, up from an earlier toll of 28. The figure does not include the three suicide bombers.

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All but three of the victims have now been identified, it said.

According to an earlier statement, a total of 340 people from 19 countries were wounded, of whom 101 remain in hospital -- 62 of them in intensive care.

The US State Department on Sunday confirmed the death of two more Americans, bringing the total to four.

As Belgium struggles to come to terms with the tragedy, recriminations continue over whether the authorities could and should have done more to prevent the carnage, as the links to the November Paris attacks by IS grow clearer by the day.

Police carried out 13 raids Sunday across Brussels and the towns of Duffel and Mechelen to the north, the federal prosecutor said, questioning nine people and holding four for further inquiries.

In the latest piece in the puzzle of the jihadist cross-border networks, police arrested a 32-year-old French national in Rotterdam Sunday on suspicion of planning a terror attack, Dutch prosecutors said, following a raid carried out at the request of French authorities.

The man is thought to have been planning an attack in France in the name of the Islamic State group along with Reda Kriket, a terror suspect who was detained near Paris on Thursday, a French police source told AFP.

Belgian prosecutors at the weekend also charged two men with involvement in a terror group over the foiled plot to attack France.

- 'Molenbeek in France' -

French minister for cities Patrick Kanner on Saturday sparked debate by claiming that "around a hundred neighbourhoods" in France could be compared to Molenbeek, the gritty Brussels district which has been home to several jihadis.

"We know that there are today around a hundred neighbourhoods in France which have potential similarities to what has happened in Molenbeek," he said during a radio interview, though some in his own Socialist Party questioned the statement.

Also on Saturday, a Belgian suspect identified as Faycal Cheffou, widely thought to be the fugitive third bomber from the airport, was charged in Brussels with terrorist murder and participation in a terrorist group.

There has been intense speculation he is the man wearing a dark hat and light-coloured jacket seen in airport surveillance footage alongside Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui who blew themselves up.

Brussels Airport said it would carry out a test run on Tuesday to see if the repair work in the wrecked departure hall was satisfactory, but it could not give a firm date for resuming services.
(Adds resignation of PMDB minister)

By Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA, March 28 (Reuters) - Brazil's largest party will decide on Tuesday to break away from President Dilma Rousseff's floundering coalition, party leaders said, sharply raising the odds that the country's first woman president will be impeached amid a corruption scandal.

The fractious Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) will decide at its national leadership meeting on the pace of disengagement from the Rousseff administration, in which it holds seven ministerial posts and the vice presidency.

A formal rupture appears inevitable and will increase the isolation of the unpopular Rousseff, freeing PMDB members to vote for her impeachment.

That makes it likely Rousseff will be temporarily suspended from office by Congress as early as May and replaced by Vice President Michel Temer, leader of the PMDB, while the Senate decides if she should be permanently ousted.

In the first step toward an imminent rupture, Tourism Minister Henrique Eduardo Alves, a PMDB leader and former speaker of the lower house of Congress, announced on Monday he was resigning from Rousseff's cabinet. "Dialogue, I regret to say, has been exhausted," Alves said in his resignation letter to Rousseff.

Temer aides said the vice president is ready to take over and move fast to restore business confidence in Brazil, in an effort to pull the economy out of a tailspin. Brazilian media reported over the weekend that a team of Temer aides is drawing up a plan for his first weeks as president.

Brazil's stocks and currency rose Monday on the prospect of Rousseff's removal. Many blame her for running Latin America's largest economy into the ground, while Temer is widely viewed as far more business friendly.

The Economist Intelligence Unit said in a note to clients it no longer expects Rousseff to survive impeachment, joining other risk analysts who have raised the odds of her removal.

Party officials calculate that 70 to 80 percent of the 119 voting members of the PMDB directorate will vote to end the party's alliance with Rousseff and the ruling Workers' Party. One told Reuters that 75 had already pledged to do so.

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Rousseff is an economist by training and a former Marxist guerrilla who was imprisoned and tortured during Brazil's long military dictatorship. She vigorously denies any wrongdoing and rejects impeachment charges that she manipulated government spending accounts to help her re-election in 2014.

The impeachment process only adds to the crisis hitting Brazil, shaken by its biggest corruption scandal - an investigation into political kickbacks to the ruling coalition and other parties from contractors working for state oil company Petrobras.

Rousseff's government is also grappling with Brazil's worst recession in decades and an epidemic of the mosquito-borne Zika virus, as it scrambles to host the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August.

The Petrobras scandal has weakened Rousseff by reaching her inner circle with allegations against her mentor and predecessor, Workers' Party founder Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

An attempt by Rousseff to appoint Lula to her Cabinet was the last straw for many of her allies who saw it as a desperate move to shield him from prosecution by a lower federal court that is overseeing most of the Petrobras case.

Brazil's top court is expected to decide later this week if Lula can indeed become a minister.

LULA DOWNCAST

With the prospect of impeachment ending 13 years of rule by his Workers' Party, Lula said he was "saddened" by the PMDB's exit from a coalition he forged in 2006. The former union leader, who remains Brazil's most influential politician, told foreign reporters in Sao Paulo he thought agreement was still possible.

But in Brasilia, a presidential aide said the break was "irreversible" and the Rousseff government was now focusing on individual members of the PMDB and other parties to try to convince them to vote against impeachment by offering government jobs and pork barrel for their districts.

Lula also called for tax breaks and other measures to get the economy growing again.

The departure of the PMDB is expected to lead other smaller parties to bolt from the governing coalition, which will further undermine Rousseff's ability to muster one third of the votes in Congress needed to block her impeachment.

The two largest, the Progressive Party (PP) and the Republican Party (PR), each with 40 seats or more in the lower chamber, have signaled that they are leaving.

An impeachment vote is expected as soon as mid-April in the lower house. If she fails to block it with the votes of 171 of its 513 members, Rousseff would face a trial in the Senate where she has lost crucial support among the PMDB.

One PMDB senator, Valdir Raupp, said it would be almost impossible for them now to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. PMDB senators believe it would be almost impossible for them to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. Rousseff would be suspended for up to six months at the start of the trial and Temer would become acting president.

Temer is already looking at ways to cut public spending to tackle a widening fiscal gap that cost Brazil's its investment grade credit rating, the O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper reported on Sunday.

It said a small team of aides led by Wellington Moreira Franco, Rousseff's former civil aviation minister, is considering sweeping welfare cuts in social programs that would be carried out by the finance minister of a Temer government.

Two names under consideration for that job are former central bank governors Henrique Meirelles and Arminio Fraga, the newspaper said. A spokesman for Temer declined to comment on the report.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Additional reporting by Alonso Soto, Caroline Stauffer, Lisandra Paraguassu and Marcelo Teixeira; Editing by Alistair Bell and Leslie Adler)
Why Retail Gained, Brazil Jumped, and Asia (Mostly) Struggled

(Continued from Prior Part)

Volatility in Latin American markets

Latin American markets recorded mixed performance on March 28, 2016, at 2:30 PM EST. The markets were taking cues from a sell-off in commodity and crude oil prices globally, coupled with an outflow from energy indices. On the other hand, there was some positive sentiment in the Brazilian markets due to widespread speculation that the coalition supporting President Dilma Rousseff would disband.

The Argentinian Merval Index and the Brazilian BM&F BOVESPA Index rose nearly 3.1% and 2.6%, respectively. The Mexican IPC Index was trading 0.1% lower as the economy recorded a trade deficit of $725 million. Although the fall in crude prices has been dragging down exports, there was an uptick in the countrys imports. The Colombian COLCAP Index fell 1.5% while Chiles IPSA Select Index remained flat.

Why Bovespa posted significant gains The Brazilian index Bovespa posted gains of over 2.5% for the day as reports came in that the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party decided to break away from the coalition led by President Dilma Rousseff. Investors found some encouragement in the news. It further weakens Rousseff, whose policies investors have blamed for the recession in Brazil. The vote for impeachment is expected to happen in mid-April as President Rousseff struggles to rally support. Impact on the market

The important Latin Americafocused ETFs were trading stronger following the partys abandonment of President Rousseff. The iShares MSCI Brazil Capped ETF (EWZ) rose 4.1%. The iShares MSCI Mexico Capped ETF (EWW) rose 1.0% during the day.

Among Latin American countries, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Brazil are closely linked to commodity prices. The PowerShares DB Commodity Tracking ETF (DBC) rose 0.26%. On a broad-based level, the iShares Latin America 40 ETF (ILF) and the iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (EEM) rose 2.9% and 0.12%, respectively.

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Continue to Next Part

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By Sharon Bernstein

SACRAMENTO (Reuters) - California Governor Jerry Brown announced a deal with legislators and labor leaders on Monday to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2023, saying the nation's most-populous state would lead the way toward higher pay for the working poor.

The proposal, which still must win approval from moderate lawmakers, would make California the first to raise the statewide minimum wage to $15 an hour - the highest in the nation - while giving the governor the right to opt out if the economy falters.

Raising the minimum wage has cropped up on many Democratic Party candidates' agendas ahead of the November elections and the issue could help mobilize Democratic voters to the polls.

According to the governor's office, 2.2 million Californians currently earn the state minimum wage of $10 an hour.

The idea of raising the federal minimum wage, which has remained at $7.25 an hour for more than six years, has been opposed by Republicans and some business groups, who say a higher minimum wage would harm small businesses and strain government budgets.

"You've got a Congress that doesn't get it, so out to lunch. I'm hoping that what happens in California will not just stay in California but will be exported to the rest of the country," Brown said at a press conference in Sacramento.

The deal would commit the state, home to one of the world's biggest economies, to raising the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2022 for large businesses and 2023 for smaller firms.

It would also head off a pair of competing ballot initiatives championed by labor leaders that would raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2021.

But passage of the proposal was not guaranteed without support from more moderate members of the Democrat-controlled legislature. Absent from the press conference was Anthony Rendon, speaker of the state Assembly, where the bill was expected to face opposition.

Democratic presidential hopeful U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has called for raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2020.

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Christopher Thornberg, founding partner at Beacon Economics, said increasing the minimum wage was not effective in reducing poverty because the poorest workers were most at risk of losing their jobs when employers cut positions.

"This is not costless," Thornberg said. These are the people that businesses will say, "If Im going to pay $15 bucks an hour, Im not going to hire them.'"

Fourteen states and several cities began 2016 with minimum wage increases, typically phasing in raises that will ultimately take them to between $10 and $15 an hour.

(Reporting by Sharon Bernstein, Robin Respaut and Dan Whitcomb; Writing by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Sara Catania, Grant McCool and Alan Crosby)
A Libyan protestor carries a placard depicting general Khalifa Haftar during a demonstration in support of the army and against the UN-backed unity government in Benghazi this month (AFP Photo/Abdullah Doma)

Tripoli (AFP) - It was meant to finally bring an end to Libya's political chaos and unrest, but the creation of a new UN-backed unity government has only added to the country's disarray.

Desperate to resolve years of political deadlock that has allowed jihadists to gain an important foothold on Europe's doorstep, the United Nations and Western powers have been pushing hard for the acceptance of a Libyan power-sharing deal announced in December.

Under the agreement, Libya's rival administrations -- one supported by the internationally recognised parliament in the east and the other backed by an Islamist-backed militia in Tripoli -- are supposed to cede power to a new Government of National Accord (GNA) under prime minister-designate Fayez al-Sarraj.

But so far the only thing the two sides seem able to agree on is their mutual disdain for the new authority.

"The birth of this government in this way has done nothing but worsen the political crisis... create new conflicts and further destabilise" the country, said Mohamed Eljarh, a Libya analyst at the Washington-based Atlantic Council.

The extent of the crisis was hammered home on Wednesday when UN envoy Martin Kobler was prevented from travelling to Tripoli to work on installing the GNA.

"Again had to cancel flight to Tripoli... UN must have the right to fly (to) Tripoli," he wrote on Twitter, without specifying what had blocked the mission.

The GNA has not been formally endorsed by either parliament but it announced earlier this month it was taking office on the basis of a petition signed by a narrow majority of Libya's elected lawmakers.

The United States and its European allies have called on the government to swiftly move to Tripoli and take up power, threatening sanctions against those who undermine the political process.

But neither of Libya's rival administrations has so far shown any willingness to cooperate.

"Unless the international community can give the GNA control over Libyan finances, a powerful national army, and somehow make it legitimate in the eyes of the Libyan people, the GNA is poised to become the weakest of Libya's three competing national authorities," said Michael Nayebi-Oskoui, a US-based Middle East and North Africa analyst.

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- 'A long way' from stability -

Libya collapsed into lawlessness following the 2011 NATO-backed ouster of longtime strongman Moamer Kadhafi.

Heavily armed groups rushed to the fill the power vacuum and in mid-2014 a militia alliance including Islamists overran Tripoli, forcing a recognised government that had struggled to function to flee to eastern Libya.

Eljarh said there was no hope of the GNA taking power in Tripoli "as long as the main armed groups are not ready to pledge allegiance" to the new authority.

"The international community would need to be ready to provide it with military protection if needed," he said.

And any attempt to force the government on Tripoli would be "a major security risk likely to cause clashes between armed groups".

The stakes are high. Just across the Mediterranean from Europe, Libya has become the latest stronghold of the jihadist Islamic State group.

IS has seized control of Kadhafi's coastal hometown of Sirte and launched a wave of attacks, both against rival Libyan forces and across the border in Tunisia.

The group claimed responsibility last year for two attacks in Tunisia -- on the Bardo national museum and at a beach resort near Sousse -- that killed a total of 59 tourists.

The lawlessness has also seen Libya became a favoured jumping-off point for smugglers bringing migrants on dangerous sea journeys to Europe.

Around 330,000 migrants have landed in Italy from Libya since the start of 2014, as Europe already struggles to cope with the influx of those fleeing five years of war in Syria.

Despite the international pressure, Nayebi-Oskoui said Libya is in such a shambles that it is unlikely the GNA will make a difference soon.

"Libya's fractured social and tribal structures require a strong and legitimate central government," he said. "Unfortunately we seem to be a long way from realising that objective."
(Repeats to additional subscribers; no change to text)

By Rod Nickel

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, March 28 (Reuters) - Canada and China are in talks about Beijing's plans to toughen its standard on Canadian canola imports, an industry official said on Monday, days ahead of the change taking effect.

China's quarantine authority, AQSIQ, notified the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) last month that it would allow no more than 1 percent of foreign material, such as straw and seeds from other plants, in canola shipments starting April 1. The current limit is 2.5 percent.

Exporters have said the new standard by Canada's biggest canola export market, arising from a dispute about a harmful fungus, would be difficult and costly to meet.

"There are active negotiations underway," said Patti Miller, president of the Canola Council of Canada, an industry group whose directors include exporters and processors Cargill Ltd , Richardson International, Viterra Inc , Bunge Ltd and Archer Daniels Midland Co.

"Both government and industry would like to have a permanent resolution. The focus of the negotiation is how we get there."

Miller, speaking by email, said she could not comment on specifics. Ottawa is leading negotiations for Canada, with the council's input, she said.

The Western Producer newspaper reported on Thursday that China may delay implementation, citing Canadian industry sources.

Canada is the world's biggest producer and exporter of canola, also called rapeseed, which is used mainly to produce vegetable oil.

Blackleg disease, caused by a fungus common in Canada, can significantly reduce crop yields, and China has raised concerns since 2009 about the risk of it spreading to the country through imports. Some traders in both countries said the real issue behind the new standard was that China had ample stocks of rapeseed oil and wanted to slow imports.

Officials at the CFIA and Canada's agriculture department could not be reached on Monday, a holiday for government workers.

A spokesman at the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa could not immediately comment.

(Reporting by Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
By Rod Nickel

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Reuters) - Canada and China are in talks about Beijing's plans to toughen its standard on Canadian canola imports, an industry official said on Monday, just days before the change takes effect.

China's quarantine authority, AQSIQ, notified the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) last month that it would allow no more than 1 percent of foreign material, such as straw and seeds from other plants, in canola shipments starting April 1. The current limit is 2.5 percent.

Exporters have said the new standard by Canada's biggest canola export market, arising from a dispute about a harmful fungus, would be difficult and costly to meet.

"There are active negotiations underway," said Patti Miller, president of the Canola Council of Canada, an industry group whose directors include farmers as well as exporters and processors Cargill Ltd [CARGIL.UL], Richardson International, Viterra Inc [VILC.UL], Bunge Ltd (BG.N) and Archer Daniels Midland Co (ADM.N).

"Both government and industry would like to have a permanent resolution. The focus of the negotiation is how we get there."

Miller, speaking by email, said she could not comment on specifics. Ottawa is leading negotiations for Canada, with the council's input, she said.

The Western Producer newspaper reported on Thursday that China may delay implementation, citing Canadian industry sources.

CFIA spokeswoman Maria Kubacki confirmed the Canadian and Chinese governments are in talks, but said it was premature to comment on possible outcomes.

Canada is the world's biggest producer and exporter of canola, also called rapeseed, which is used mainly to produce vegetable oil.

Blackleg disease, caused by a fungus common in Canada, can significantly reduce crop yields, and China has raised concerns since 2009 about the risk of it spreading to the country through imports. Some traders in both countries said the real issue behind the new standard was that China had ample stocks of rapeseed oil and wanted to slow imports.

Story continues

A spokesman at the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa could not comment.

ICE Canada canola futures (RSv1) lost 8 percent after China notified Canada of the pending change on Feb. 23. They bottomed out on March 2 and since have recovered the losses. They climbed 0.8 percent on Monday.

(Reporting by Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Alan Crosby)
Patrick T. Fallon | Bloomberg | Getty Images. China's Anbang raised its bid for Starwood. But the country's M&A binge is beginning to disappoint, says NYU Stern's Rob Salomon. Here's why.

Despite its recent domestic economic slowdown, Corporate China 's foreign acquisition binge continues apace. Chinese corporate giants have been relentlessly pursuing Western foreign assets in a shopping frenzy with no signs of abating.

On the surface, Chinese foreign acquisitions appear to be geared toward industries that meet the strategic resource needs of its domestic population  agriculture, food, and energy. The companies leading the charge are typically large, global champions with access to abundant capital, and with the explicit or implicit backing of the state. But this does not make them good deals, and this does not relieve the Chinese acquirers of their profit obligation.





Between 2004 and 2014, Chinese foreign direct investment into Europe and North America more than tripled. According to the Rhodium Group, Chinese companies completed a record $60 billion worth of outbound global deals in 2015. And, according to my calculations, 2016 is on track to outpace last year's record.

The total value of the investment has not only grown, but individual deals are becoming bigger and bolder. In 2012, state-owned Cnooc (Hong Kong Stock Exchange: 883-HK) bought Canadian oil giant Nexen (: NXY'U-CA) for about $15 billion. That set the record for the largest Chinese acquisition abroad. The following year, Chinese meat processor WH Group (Hong Kong Stock Exchange: 288-HK) took over Smithfield (:SF3-FF), America's largest pork producer, for $7 billion. That set the record for the largest Chinese acquisition in the United States. (Smithfield accounted for just over 25 percent of daily hog slaughter according to the National Pork Board's 2014 report, which means China's WH Group owns approximately 1 in 4 pigs raised in the U.S.)

Just last month, the China National Chemical Equipment Corporation (ChemChina) announced plans to acquire Syngenta, a Swiss agricultural giant. If approved, this $47 billion transaction will replace Nexen as the largest Chinese foreign acquisition ever.

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Despite their deep pockets and large appetites, Chinese acquisitions are beginning to disappoint. They face a toxic cocktail of political, economic, and cultural headwinds. And the cracks that now appear in some of the early deals should serve as an early warning sign for future deals.



Certainly a number of deals face political risks and are thwarted before they even have the chance to get off the ground.

Anbang, an upstart insurance company,is attempting to acquire Starwood Hotels and Resorts (HOT), after having acquired Strategic Hotels and Resorts (:BEE) for $6.5 billion and the Waldorf Astoria property in New York City for almost $2 billion. Though Starwood accepted a higher bid from Marriott , Anbang has reportedly raised its offer .



Fairchild Semiconductor (FCS) recently rejected a takeover by a state-backed Chinese company. In spurning the deal, Fairchild suggested that the deal was likely not to receive approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) because acquisitions in the semiconductor industry raise substantial national security concerns. But even those that are allowed to go through face political risks after the deal gets done. Cnooc, for example, is currently embroiled in a series of battles with political officials over its hiring and firing practices in Canada .

A number of deals also face economic risks. Chinese acquirers have demonstrated a willingness to be eager buyers, paying exorbitant premiums and taking on too much debt along the way. Cnooc paid a 61 percent premium to acquire Nexen. And Chinese acquirers routinely bid far more on a multiple of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) basis than is prudent. Paying back a high debt load is burdensome and can hamstring managers, leaving them with limited strategic growth options.

Beyond well-documented economic and political risks, there is another obstacle that foreign acquirers often overlook that is especially pronounced in Sino-Western deals  cultural risk. Chinese culture is exceptionally different from Western culture, and Chinese acquirers often have trouble integrating and effectively managing their newly acquired targets.

Cnooc has not been able to generate synergies from Nexen, partly because Canadian employees are struggling to understand the management style of its Chinese parent and partly because Cnooc does not fully understand Nexen's business model. Employees and former employees of Nexen claim that Cnooc has engaged in mass layoffs in an effort to cut costs; however, Cnooc has yet to realize cost savings from those layoffs. It continues to lose money; having lost so much that it is likely to have to write down $5 billion by some estimates.

Unfortunately, Cnooc's experiences in Canada are not the exception. They are increasingly looking like the norm. Chinese companies WH Group, China Investment Corporation, and Three Gorges are experiencing similar problems.

All of the issues that Chinese companies are facing in Western markets harken back to Japan Inc.'s problems in the mid to late 1990's. In both cases, record-breaking foreign acquisitions were viewed as a source of national pride at first. It signaled each country's arrival to the global grown-ups table. But, as we have seen before, pride all too often precedes a fall.

Commentary by Robert Salomon, an associate professor of international management at NYU Stern School of Business and author of "Global Vision: How Companies Can Overcome the Pitfalls of Globalization."

For more insight from CNBC contributors, follow @CNBCopinion on Twitter.





More From CNBC


Donald Trump.

Wisconsin radio host Charlie Sykes grilled GOP presidential frontrunner Donald Trump in a tough Monday-morning interview on Trump's treatment of Heidi Cruz and other instances of sexism.

Sykes, a Trump critic, began the interview on WTMJ by asking Trump whether he'd apologize to Cruz, the wife of Trump's main GOP presidential competitor, Ted Cruz, for promoting an unflattering picture of her on Twitter last week.

Trump deflected, blaming Ted Cruz for starting the back-and-forth, which was ongoing for most of the past week.

The billionaire accused Cruz of "knowing" about an ad from an unaffiliated super PAC that was released before last week's Utah primary. The ad featured Trump's wife, Melania, posing nude for GQ magazine when she was a model.

"Ted Cruz knew totally about it," Trump insisted. "He says he didn't know about it, but he totally knew about it. They sent that out to the people of Salt Lake City or the people of Utah ... He knew totally about it  if he didn't know about it, it would be a different story, but he totally knew about it. It was done by people that he knows very well."

Sykes pointed out that the ad did not come from Cruz's campaign. In one of many questions taking Trump to task, Sykes asked:

Is this your standard? That if a supporter of another candidate  not the candidate himself  does something despicable, that it's OK for you, personally, a candidate for president of the United States, to behave in that same way? I mean, I expect that from a 12-year-old bully on the playground, not somebody who wants the office held by Abraham Lincoln.

But Trump wouldn't budge and maintained that Cruz was involved in the ad. Sykes soon asked Trump why he wouldn't simply praise both candidates' wives and move on to the issues.

"I don't know Ted Cruz's wife  I'm sure she's excellent," Trump said.

"All this was was a response to what he did," he continued. "It was a very minor response to what he did. I didn't even know if it was necessarily a very bad picture of her versus Melania, frankly."

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As The Washington Post's Philip Bump wrote on Sunday, it would be illegal for Cruz to coordinate with a super PAC. Bump also argued that such a move wouldn't be worth the risk because Cruz already had a big lead in Utah.

Donald Trump.

Sykes used the discussion regarding Trump's treatment of Cruz's wife as an opportunity to discuss broader issues of sexism. He asked Trump about a recent commercial, from another anti-Trump PAC, that featured women reading critical statements Trump has said about other women's looks.

"Women are just going to have to see what I've done," Trump said, later adding that "people have said, that in terms of breaking the glass ceiling, that I was a leader in it."

Later in the interview, Sykes asked Trump whether he was aware that Sykes was "a 'hashtag never Trump' guy." Trump said he had no idea.

"I assume you're also an intelligent guy," Trump said. "I know you're an intelligent guy."

Sykes followed up by saying he failed his Wisconsin audience by being unable to get Trump to apologize for his treatment of Cruz's wife.

"Well can I get an apology from somebody who sent out a picture of my wife?" Trump said.

Trump continued:

He knew about that. Is he going to apologize? Is he going to apologize for starting it? And by the way, it was an artsy picture. It wasn't anything horrible. It wasn't Penthouse or Playboy or anything like that.

Sykes asked Trump whether he believed in apologizing for anything.

"I do apologize  I believe in apologizing," Trump replied. "I think before I'd think about apologizing, he owes me an apology. Because what he did was wrong."

Sykes, in an attempt to give Trump advice, also said Wisconsinites would be thrilled if Trump simply announced that candidates' wives were off limits.

"I don't mind that at all," Trump said. "I think that's great  I think that's fine. Who wouldn't agree to that? I think it's great. [But] I didn't start it. He started it."

Listen to the full interview below:

NOW WATCH: Trump insinuates a former presidential candidate may be behind the Cruz National Enquirer story





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By Kate Holton

HEREFORD, England (Reuters) - Above a factory floor of machines carving metal to within a millionth of a meter, Stephen Cheetham is preparing his company for the unknown: a British exit from the European Union.

Since the government announced a referendum on Britain's future in Europe, Cheetham has deferred investment decisions, put off expensive hiring and even bought equipment with his own money to avoid straining the balance sheet.

The aim is to prepare his company, which makes parts for first-class airline seats and intricate scientific equipment, for what he fears will be a slump in business if Britain votes to leave the world's biggest trading bloc.

"It is extremely difficult to prepare for and it worries me witless," said the owner of PK Engineering. "But our disaster plan is very clear: if all the kit is paid for, we hang on to it and we ditch everybody apart from the core."

Britain's big listed companies have appointed lawyers and strategists to identify the risks of a British exit, or Brexit. Wary of meddling in politics, however, they have largely not detailed their plans for the June 23 vote.

But smaller companies in the manufacturing heartlands, crucial to the economy and often inextricably linked to continental Europe, are formulating contingency plans that illustrate the risks facing businesses across the country and the steps being taken to mitigate them.

At the start of 2015, almost half of Britain's private-sector turnover came from firms that employed fewer than 249 people, according to the Department for Business.

For Cheetham his "disaster plan" involves jettisoning nearly half of his 30 employees if a Brexit compounds the drag from an already slowing global economy at his firm in the English rural town of Hereford.

Across the nearby Welsh border, Gareth Jenkins, who runs a toolmaking firm, has identified which major customers in Europe are likely to abandon him should they have to accept higher costs or slower delivery times that might come from new border controls with EU countries if Britain leaves the bloc.

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He has calculated the financial impact and says in a worst-case scenario he could lose 25 percent of his turnover. He plans to tell his 91 employees in the next couple of weeks that a vote to leave could force him to lay off a quarter of staff.

POOR VISIBILITY

Very little is clear ahead of the referendum called by Prime Minister David Cameron, with British voters divided on membership and both sides in the debate arguing Britain would be financially better off if their cause succeeds.

The fears of business owners like Cheetham and Jenkins are driven by what most Britons - on either side of the debate - accept is unchartered economic territory should Britain vote to leave the group it joined 43 years ago.

The terms of any divorce would be subject to two years of negotiations with the EU, with no guarantees of how the new order would look.

At present British companies trading with other EU nations do not face customs tariffs, costly paperwork such as certificates of origin or VAT - sales tax - on imports.

Should it opt to leave, Britain may negotiate continued tariff-free access but additional administrative burdens will almost certainly apply, making exporting to and importing from the EU more costly, say business owners and lawyers.

They also fear any restrictions on European workers and a prolonged period of a volatile pound, while the effect on the EU of losing its second-largest economy is unclear.

Adam Shuter, head of haulier Exact Logistics, is investigating whether he should set up a German office, which he thinks could cost less than the additional taxes and paperwork of serving EU customers from outside the bloc.

"For a small business, it's quite a bit of investment," he said. "It just adds a layer of administration."

He is also gauging the extra customs costs his British customers might incur outside the EU, using non-members Norway and Switzerland as guides, and looking at how much it would cost to set up expensive software to handle border clearances.

He charges an additional 50 to 60 pounds ($70-85) per consignment for customs clearance into those two countries, on top of a typical European delivery cost of 40 to 50 pounds.

A spokesman for Vote Leave, one of the groups campaigning for Britain to leave the EU, said the concerns were unfounded.

The group argues companies would benefit from fewer regulations imposed by Brussels, while the government could be more nimble in agreeing trade deals with the likes of India, China and the United States.

"The UK is the EU's largest market so every incentive exists for the UK to strike a free trade deal with the EU while using its new-found control to also strike free trade deals across the world," it said.

GLOBAL TIES

Cheetham's focus is closer to home. He bought PK Engineering in Hereford, close to England's border with Wales, four years ago after a career in the automotive and finance industry.

With its 1.5 million pound ($2.2 million) turnover and 10,000 square ft factory, he says he is too small to employ consultants or lawyers ahead of the vote.

Like many of Britain's high-precision manufacturers, most of PK's goods - 90 percent - are exported to global supply chains, ending up at the likes of Boeing's factory in Seattle or Airbus's base in Toulouse.

"You think we're a rural business?" asks Cheetham of his 27-year-old firm based on a small industrial park nestled in rolling countryside 190 km (120 miles) west of London.

"If we screw up, Boeing in Seattle stops or Airbus in Toulouse stops ... it's all interconnected."

Clutching a component of an airline seat in his right hand, the 58-year-old details how the aluminum came from Finland and the fittings from Germany to meet an order from a French customer in Wales who will send it on to Toulouse or Seattle.

To his left is a large folder detailing the certification process the firm went through to allow it to win work in the aerospace sector. Known as the Aerospace Quality Certification AS9100C, the six-month process cost about 20,000 pounds.

The EU contributed to that cost in its bid to improve productivity and competitiveness in the bloc and Cheetham said it would have taken much longer to complete had he needed to stump up all the cash.

Leaving the bloc, Cheetham worries that his firm could miss out on this kind of advantage and become less competitive.

"Our ability to increase prices is very limited - whenever we try, we lose work," he said.

He has pushed back the hiring of a new senior engineer until after the vote.

"If we do vote for Brexit we will have a prolonged period of uncertainty and everything will grind to a halt, he said. "And we don't want to be caught holding the debt."

'MAPPED OUT IN MY MIND'

Any move that led to British manufacturing firms losing their place in global supply chains would deal a major blow to the British economy; the sector accounts for a tenth of its output and employs 2.65 million people, the vast majority in small and medium-sized firms.

Just over one hour's drive from Hereford through country lanes decked with daffodils stands Jenkins' 55,000 square ft toolmaking factory, a Welsh firm entwined in similar networks.

Like Cheetham, 59-year-old Jenkins has been studying contracts and trying to work out whether three of his biggest clients, all based in Germany, would be able to cope if they had to accept higher costs or slower delivery times.

He estimates that one if not two would stop using his FSG Tool and Die, Europe's largest privately owned design and build toolmaking firm.

"I have mapped this out in my mind," he says, in a room off the spotless factory where tools are being built to make everything from yoghurt pots to replacement hips and car parts.

"The minute we vote to leave customers will say there's a risk here and we need to mitigate it. We ship tools from here on Monday that they'll be using by Thursday. What happens if that is disrupted?" he said, fearing that they will look elsewhere.

Jenkins fears losing the close links he has developed with other EU firms should a vote to leave exclude it from the free movement and trade that has made the alliances work.

Up against the might of low-cost centers such as China, he teamed up with firms in Germany, Sweden and elsewhere to train one another's apprentices, refer sales, bid for emerging market work and hire a rep in Singapore to cover all their needs.

"It's a bit like a life raft," he said.

CUSTOMS CONUNDRUM

The customs issues are perhaps most crucial for hauliers such as Shuter's Exact Logistics, which delivers across Europe from its base in Rugby, central England.

While lawyers and business owners say any new tariffs could be low, they worry that deliveries could be delayed by customs clearance and additional paperwork, including certificates of origin and export tax declaration documents.

Shuter and one of his clients, Pete Churchill from Robert Welch Designs, estimate that the additional paperwork could mean the cost of a consignment jumps to between 150 to 200 pounds from the current 50 pounds.

That compares with the value of the consignment which can sometimes be as little as 500 pounds.

Sitting in an office crammed with filing cabinets and maps of Europe, Shuter is investigating how much it would cost to buy a new software system that could clear consignments with European tax and border authorities if Britain were to operate under different rules.

"You're probably talking in the region of 10-20,000 pounds, so it's relatively significant," he said.

British importers also fear they will have to pay VAT sales tax when they take delivery of goods from the EU - rather than at the point of sale - making cashflow harder to manage.

Facing so many unknowns, business owners such as Cheetham are struggling to plan for the future. Back in Hereford he lets his frustration show.

Normally a supporter of Cameron's Conservatives, he says he is furious at the position the government has put business owners in.

"They are playing roulette with the economic future of the country," he says, hands gripping the table. "We're just hoping for the best. I'm almost in denial."

($1 = 0.6933 pounds)

(Additional reporting by Tom Bergin and Paul Sandle; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Pravin Char)
By Emily Chow

KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 (Reuters) - Crude palm kernel oil prices rose to the most in five years on Monday over concerns that lower output could tighten supplies in Malaysia, the world's second-biggest palm producer.

Assessment prices by Thomson Reuters (PKO-MYSTH-M1) showed prices reaching 5,406 ringgit ($1,347) per tonne on Monday, rising by over 20 percent since the start of the month.

Production of palm kernel oil, like crude palm oil, is taking a hit from a crop damaging El Nino, with some traders estimating output to be lower than usual in March. The El Nino brings scorching heat and drought across Southeast Asia, impacting palm fruit yields in the world's top two growers Malaysia and Indonesia.

"Buyers are buying (palm kernel oil) as there are concerns over further tightness in kernel due to weaker crude palm oil supply," said Ivy Ng, plantations analyst at CIMB Investment Bank.

Rising prices of substitute coconut oil have also led to buyers switching over to kernel oil, said traders in Kuala Lumpur, supporting the surge in price levels.

The El Nino has also impacted the output of coconut oil in the Philippines, the world's top supplier of the commodity, leading to forecasts of an 11 percent drop in exports this year. This may boost demand for palm oil-based alternatives.

Further price rises could squeeze the margins of oleochemical manufacturers who buy palm kernel oil as a raw material for use in commercial cooking and the manufacturing of chocolates and cosmetics.

An official at an oleochemicals producer who asked to remain unidentified said his plant had not yet been impacted by the spike in palm kernel oil prices as they buy forward, but problems would arise if prices keep rising.

"I think this is temporary... But if this lasts for another one to two months then we'll have some problems," he said. "Consumers are not going to buy your oil at this price, they will use alternatives, unless the market completely moves up for all the oils to the next level." ($1 = 4.0110 ringgit) (Editing by Christian Schmollinger)
And heres the deal on Singapore startups.

Singapore unveiled an expansionary fiscal budget to boost growth, providing breathing room to the central bank as it considers the need to provide more support for the economy weeks before its next policy decision. Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat, in his first budget to Parliament, pledged support for companies facing labor constraints and a faltering global outlook, promised higher wages for low-income earners and more assistance for elderly and needy households. Read more here.

There were no property-related measures announced in Finance Minister Heng Swee Keats maiden budget speech, which came as no surprise to experts. (The) absence of changes to market cooling measures was expected as the government has conveyed its concern that premature easing of market cooling measures might lead to a market rebound, said Tay Huey Ying, Head of Research, JLL Singapore. CBRE Research expects the government to continue monitoring the residential market. Find out more here.

One of the biggest event in Singapores fiscal calendar is underway now, and while Minister Heng is wrapping up his maiden speech as the Finance Minister, here are some important announcement he made earlier today that is important to you as a SME or startup owner. Minister Heng shared that there are three main thrusts for this years Budget, which includes: Addressing cyclical weaknesses, enabling firms to build more capabilities, as well as supporting people through change. Read more here.











More From Singapore Business Review


China coal mine

Global consumption of coal has declined significantly over the past year, driven by China, which makes up about half of the world's demand for coal.

But the Asian giant's break from one of the world's dirtiest fuels is unlikely to be a clean one: While China seems to be reducing coal production and consumption domestically, political concerns suggest that Beijing will maintain support for coal production in North Korea.

This relationship has led China to push for sanctions exemptions for its coal trade with the hermit kingdom, even as Beijing winds down its own coal production  the livelihood of an increasingly restive portion of the Chinese population.

'There isn't going to be change'

China's economy grew 6.9% in 2015, the lowest rate in 25 years, and Reuters has reported that the government intends to lay off 5 million to 6 million state workers over the next two to three years, "as part of efforts to curb industrial overcapacity and pollution."

In northeast China, a hub of industrial and coal production, those layoffs have already started.

Local economies in parts of Heilongjiang, in far northeast China, fell 10% in 2014. Coal prices in those areas have fallen by half since 2011, and the Chinese pullback from coal and heavy industry has left many workers without work and with few prospects.

China coal production 2020

Chinese leadership has promised that the 1.8 million workers who will be fired from government-run coal and steel firms (others will be laid off from private companies) will be retrained and rehired.

"The opportunities for middle-aged or even elderly former coal miners and steel plant workers are more limited in a province where the economy really has slowed to virtually zero," Geoffrey Crothall of the nonprofit China Labor Bulletin, which has tracked a significant spike in labor strikes in China over the past six months, told the Associated Press.

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Unrest has grown in the northeast, and large protests have taken place. Many workers, mostly young ones, have left the area for manufacturing centers in southern China, according to the AP.

Those who remain, and still have work, say they haven't been paid in months.

China coal miners

"I don't even have anywhere left to borrow money from," Li Jiuxian, a 51-year-old miner in Jundeshan, in northeast China's Heilongjiang province, told the AP outside a dingy mahjong parlor. "There isn't going to be change."

'The government hasn't issued any notice'

Despite the domestic measures that have diminished coal production, China seems more reluctant to put checks on the coal it brings in from North Korea.

Over two weeks after the United Nations slapped harsh new sanctions on North Korea, several Chinese shipping and trade sources say they have not been told of any curbs on the import of coal from the isolated nation," Reuters reported in mid-March.

Coal is North Korea's largest export and one of its only sources of hard currency.

North Korea China coal imports

"At this point, nobody has come to us and said you shouldn't do it," an official at a company in the port city of Dalian that imports North Korean coal and other goods told Reuters. "I'm not even clear on what the specific sanctions are."

While China has taken action against some North Korean traders in line with sanctions on the North's weapons programs, Chinese officials and other experts have cautioned that taking too hard a line against the pariah country could lead to economic disaster.

Kim Jong Un China diplomats meeting

"China regards stability on the Korean peninsula as its primary interest," a report from the Council on Foreign Relations said earlier this year, citing China's desire to maintain a strategic buffer between it and South Korea as well as Beijing's fear of a wave of North Korean migrants heading north should their country collapse.

Moreover, keeping the North Korean regime in power accentuates Chinese authority in the region, prevents a pro-West government from coming to power, and forestalls the possibility of North Korea's nuclear material falling into the wrong hands, according to Douglas Schoen and Melik Kaylan in "The Russia-China Axis."

Coal deliveries to China from North Korea spiked by 26.9% in 2015, according to Reuters, to 21.7 tons with a value of $1 billion.

While Beijing, which is North Korea's biggest trading partner, has become more willing to criticize and punish Pyongyang, it has also worked to carve out exceptions to sanctions imposed by the international community.

China North Korea Trade CFR

"I think it's an indication that the Chinese managed to negotiate a wide exemption for the coal trade," Andrea Berger, deputy director of the proliferation and nuclear policy program at the Royal United Services Institute, told Reuters.

"Coal is a big lever for them," Adam Cathcart, a North Korea-China specialist at the University of Leeds, said to Reuters. "They're wise from the Chinese standpoint to keep some leeway (so) they're not branded as sanctions violators if a train goes from China to North Korea (carrying resources)."

Rough neighborhood

Despite all its economic and military power, China's continued willingness to take North Korean coal is likely a sign that it still can't totally dictate its relations with Pyongyang  which has few other friends.

"Its clear that the Chinese have enormous leverage over North Korea in many respects," said Daniel Sneider of Stanfords Asia-Pacific Research Center, according to the Council on Foreign Relations.

"But can China actually try to exercise that influence without destabilizing the regime? Probably not."

North Korea

At a time when China is navigating its own domestic economic distortions (and the fraught political conditions they have wrought) as well as a contentious geopolitical scene in the South China Sea, a quiet North Korea is likely in its interest, even if that means shelling out for more dirty coal.

"There is no reason to think that political risks emanating from North Korea will lead China to withdraw its economic safety net for North Korea any time soon," Council on Foreign Relations senior fellow Scott Snyder wrote in mid-2014.

NOW WATCH: This incredible 580-ton monster machine is building bridges across China





More From Business Insider


By Emily Chow

KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 (Reuters) - Palm oil output in Malaysia, the world's second-largest producer, is estimated to fall by 2 million tonnes from a year earlier in the oil year ending September 2016 due to the effects of El Nino, leading industry analyst Dorab Mistry said.

The decline in production, its sharpest in at least seven years, could bring stronger rallies to benchmark palm oil prices , which have risen 5 percent in the last two weeks to a two-year high of 2,726 ringgit ($676) a tonne on Friday.

For the first half of calendar year 2016, Malaysian output is expected to decline by a million tonnes, Mistry added at the Thirteenth International Oils & Oilseeds Conference in Beijing.

Production for the first two months of the year is running more than 100,000 tonnes less than the corresponding period a year ago, Mistry said, and the deficit is expected to expand to at least 350,000 tonnes by the end of March.

"I shall not be surprised if the deficit for first half 2016, as compared with first half 2015, will be in excess of 1 million tonnes," he said.

"From July we can expect some recovery in Malaysia. However, we have had severe dry weather in Sabah since the second half of January and that is likely to continue until the first half of April. Sabah palm oil production will suffer an extended impact around September 2016."

Mistry, a Singapore-based director with Indian consumer goods company Godrej International, last forecast Malaysian output to drop 1.5 million tonnes to 18.4 million tonnes due to the El Nino.

An El Nino weather event brings scorching heat across Southeast Asia, affecting the oil palm's fresh fruit yields and lowering output in Malaysia and Indonesia, which produce about 90 percent of global palm oil.

Mistry maintained his estimate for Indonesian palm production to fall by 1.2 million tonnes and that palm prices will reach 3,000 ringgit this year.

"Palm oil futures on Bursa Malaysia have already risen to 2,700 (ringgit). I believe we shall touch 3,000 ringgit before long."

Indonesian output is forecast to fall in February to 2.3 million tonnes from 2.44 million tonnes a month earlier due to drought and forest fires, its lowest levels in a year. Its annual palm oil output is expected to fall to 32.1 million tonnes this year, the first decline since 1998, said the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI).

($1 = 4.0350 ringgit) (Editing by Jacqueline Wong)
MLP Must-Knows: The Impact of Crude Oil Prices and More

(Continued from Prior Part)

Ethane prices

Mont Belvieu ethane prices remained flat at $0.18 per gallon for the week ending March 18, 2016. They jumped 12.6% to reach $0.18 per gallon during the previous week. However, ethane prices have fallen significantly over the years.

Low ethane prices and higher costs for storing and transporting ethane resulted in ethane rejectionwhen producers leave ethane in the natural gas stream. Extracting ethane isnt always economical when prices are low. The costs of storing and transporting ethane are higher than the related costs for hydrocarbon gas liquids products. Read What is ethane rejection and why is it important for energy MLPs? to learn more about ethane rejection.

The graph above shows weekly ethane prices over the past six weeks. Enable Midstream Partners (ENBL), Tallgrass Energy Partners (TEP), and Summit Midstream Partners (SMLP) are a few of the MLPs engaged in natural gas gathering and processing.

Key developments

Recent developments in the ethane market are expected to have a positive impact on MLPs involved in ethane projects. These MLPs include Sunoco Logistics Partners (SXL), Energy Transfer Partners (ETP), and Enterprise Products Partners (EPD). Energy Transfer Partners forms ~7.7% of the Global X MLP ETF (MLPA). MLPA consists of 30 energy sector MLPs.

One of the developments is higher ethane use from petrochemical companies. Lower ethane prices resulted in petrochemical companies using ethane more as a feedstock in place of naphtha.

The EIA (U.S. Energy Information Administration) expects the increased use of ethane in petrochemical companies to continue. Ethane is used to produce ethylene. Ethylene is used to produce plastics. This trend should increase ethane demand.

Ethane infrastructure

Ethane-related infrastructure, including plants to convert ethane to ethylene, has been developing in the United States. This development supports the rising demand for petrochemical companiesa positive for ethane demand. Eventually, it will be positive for prices. Some companies are investing in export terminals for ethane. Theres an attractive export market for ethane in Canada, Asia, and Europe.

Story continues

Sunoco Logistics Partners Marcus Hook project can process, store, and distribute ethane to domestic and international markets. The initial operations in the projects first phase already started. The second phase should be completed by the end of 2016. Recently, Sunoco Logistics Partners announced the start of its Mariner East 1 pipeline. According to the related press release, the pipeline system is now transporting both ethane and propane to the Marcus Hook Industrial Complex and is approaching full operations as it completes loading of the first waterborne ethane shipment.

Next, lets see how crude oil inventories are affecting MLPs.

Continue to Next Part

Browse this series on Market Realist:
* Finns face pay cuts under preliminary reform deal

* Ministers' public celebration outrages workers

* Consensus politics under pressure - union leader

* Recession-bound economy must regain competitiveness -Stubb

* Finland has lost its values - sacked professor

By Alistair Scrutton and Jussi Rosendahl

HELSINKI, March 28 (Reuters) - If one fist bump could endanger Finland's increasingly stressed tradition of consensus politics, then Prime Minister Juha Sipila and a cabinet colleague may just have achieved this dubious distinction.

In a nod to popular culture, a smiling Sipila and his finance minister Alexander Stubb punched each other's fist to celebrate a breakthrough in negotiating one of Finland's toughest austerity deals in decades with trade unions.

The unions, whose members face de facto wage cuts in the name of reviving economic growth, were deeply unimpressed by the public show of exuberance earlier this month.

"Members were very upset. They thought that they were mocking workers, saying something like: 'now we can drive them into the ground'," said PAM union leader Ann Selin, who represents 232,000 workers.

The fist bump wasn't a first in international politics. Barack and Michelle Obama exchanged one at the Democratic party convention before his election to the U.S. presidency in 2008.

But Sipila and Stubb are hardly the golden couple of Finnish politics. Before becoming prime minister, Sipila was a millionaire businessman while Stubb has the image of a jet setter with a liking for fine suits.

This made the gesture all the more difficult to stomach for union leaders after what was only a preliminary deal, with a detailed agreement still to be hammered out in the coming months. "It did not help at all," said Selin.

Unions were outraged at politicians who appeared out of touch, underlying the fragility of the Nordic model under which parties of the centre-right and centre-left, organised labour and business strive to reach consensus deals without conflict.

Story continues

The danger is that the preliminary accord may still collapse as the Finnish consensus is tested by rising debt, unemployment and lengthy economic stagnation.

Relying on traditional consensus politics, Sipila wants to persuade the unions to cut labour costs by 5 percent. It is part of his push to raise the competitiveness of the Finnish economy after three years of recession with some of the deepest austerity and welfare since World War Two.

With unemployment at 9.4 percent, Stubb insists the fist bump was to celebrate the new jobs that he believes the reforms will create. He has heralded a Finnish spring of "three big decisions that need to be taken to change the course of the country" - the labour deal, a parliamentary vote on budget cuts and reforms to cut the cost of health care.

GRAPHICS:

Finnish unit labour costs: http://reut.rs/1MEkDb9

OECD comparison - state spending, job creation:

http://tmsnrt.rs/1px9zHv

Comparison - euro zone growth forecasts:

http://reut.rs/1mfTMe6

Comparison - euro zone unemployment rates:

http://link.reuters.com/tev79v

NOT VERY FINNISH

At stake is the consensus that has grown across the high-cost Nordic welfare states out of the realisation that small, export-dependent economies can ill afford polarisation and policy stagnation.

Nowhere is that consensus under such risk as in Finland, called "the sick man of Europe" by Stubb and now facing the same dilemma as many other euro zone economies of how to promote growth while also pursuing fiscal austerity.

Having long lectured southern European countries such as Greece on tackling their problems, Finland is belatedly coming to reform itself.

The demise of Nokia's phone business and the electronics industry has shaved 3 percent off Finnish gross domestic product since 2007, with the shrinking wood industry cutting another 0.75 percent, according to OECD economists.

Economic crisis in neighbouring Russia, a close trade partner, has cut another 1.5 percent off Finnish output in the last three years, they say.

This year, Finland has lost its triple-A credit rating. The European Commission has warned Helsinki about its rising debt and budget deficit, although last year the shortfall was equal to 2.7 percent of GDP, within the EU limit.

Still, public spending is 58 percent of GDP, the highest in the OECD group of developed economies. Exports remain 20 percent below their peak reached in 2007 before the global crisis erupted.

Resistance to austerity is considerable. In the last few months, parts of Helsinki have been brought to a standstill by protesting farmers driving tractors, while thousands of pensioners and students have also taken to streets.

Selin described the preliminary labour deal as "the lesser of two evils", but said: "I have never seen the consensus model under such pressure. I have never seen so many demonstrations."

"It's not very Finnish," she added.

NO REVOLUTION - YET

Stubb acknowledges no one wants to bear the brunt of the reforms. "There is consensus in Finland that we need to turn the tide of debt, but there's clearly no consensus on where we do those cuts," he told Reuters.

He made clear the government dislikes "revolution" - forcing through reforms that could polarise society. "We decided that we'll go through evolution, a bit by bit. But ... you have to be pretty sure that you meet those targets, otherwise at the end of the day you'll have to go for the revolution."

Planned budget spending cuts would save 4 billion euros ($4.5 billion) by 2019, equal to 2 percent of GDP. Social and health reforms would cut 3 billion euros, or 1.5 percent of GDP, according to the OECD.

Stubb has warned that if the labour reforms are watered down when unions and employers negotiate the final deal, the government could try to force through more radical cuts.

Sipila and Stubb have to walk a political tightrope on each of the three reforms, facing infighting within the three-party centre-right coalition government and voters' anger with planned spending cuts from education to child benefits.

Critics say Stubb is part of the problem. Many Finns are wary of the extrovert and social media-savvy politician, mistrusting his image as a right-wing ideologue. He even faces a possible challenge to his party leadership.

Stubb's cherished labour deal cuts to the heart of Finnish welfare. If he gets his way, employees may work an extra 24 hours a year for no extra pay but with increased pension contributions. Beloved benefits, such as a 50-percent bonus on monthly pay in the summer holidays, may be trimmed.

CLUELESS ON GROWTH

"Finland has lost its values," said Arto Annila, a physics professor who was among 75 academics at Helsinki University to be made redundant. Aged 53, it was the first time he has lost his job. "Before you had a sense these were jobs for life."

Anger with these cuts - altogether about 980 jobs are going from the university's staff - has helped the opposition centre-left Social Democrats rise to top in polls.

They advocate less austerity and more investment. "Europe has generally done too much cutting," said Sanna Marin, 30-year-old SDP vice-chairwoman, who warns the coalition could fall before its term ends in 2019.

Her hometown suffers 18 percent unemployment. "I think we have the fiscal room to invest," she said.

However, few economists see any magic wand to boost growth, given how few new industries are making up for weakness of Finland's electronic and forestry exports.

"We are all clueless on how to get long term economic growth," said Markus Jantti, a professor of public finances at Helsinki University. ($1 = 0.8959 euros)

(Additional reporting by Tuomas Forsell; Editing by David Stamp)
ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece can conclude a multi-billion euro deal to lease a prime seaside property at the former airport site of Hellenikon by autumn, the finance minister said on Monday.

In 2014, Greece signed a 915-million-euro (716.70 million pound) deal to lease the property to a consortium led by Lamda Development (LMDr.AT) with Chinese and Abu Dhabi-based firms.

But several steps are still required before the transaction is completed, including the approval of a zone planning scheme for the site and the granting of casino licences.

Greece's privatisation fund is in talks with the investors to amend some terms of the deal and has said that it wants to wrap up those negotiations by the end of April.

"I believe... it will be concluded by autumn," Finance Minister Euclid Tsakalotos told parliament without providing further details. "I believe this target is close enough and we can achieve it."

The Lamda-led consortium plans to turn the 444-acre plot into a tourist, business and commercial hub.

Privatisation has been a part of Greece's international bailouts since 2010 but has generated poor revenue so far due to political resistance and bureaucracy.

Uncertainty over pension, tax and other reforms Greece must implement to conclude a bailout review - a prerequisite to start talks on debt relief and the disbursement of vital bailout loans - have also weighed on investor sentiment.

Greece expects to collect an initial 345-million-euro installment for the Hellenikon lease project this year, according to the state budget.

(Reporting by Angeliki Koutantou; editing by Jason Neely)
A general view taken on March 27, 2016 shows part of the ancient city of Palmyra, after Syrian government troops recaptured the UNESCO world heritage site from the Islamic State group (AFP Photo/Maher al Mounes) (AFP)

Tehran (AFP) - Iran hailed the Syrian army's recapture of the ancient city of Palmyra and vowed to continue to support the government of President Bashar al-Assad to fight "terrorism", media reported Monday.

Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, sent a message to Assad to congratulate him on Sunday's "admirable and honourable" win over the Islamic State group.

Iran's government and its armed forces "will continue to provide Syria with their full support" against the jihadists, Shamkhani said, according to the official news agency IRNA.

Iran provides financial and military support to Assad through its elite Revolutionary Guards, notably sending "military advisers" and "volunteers" to fight alongside the Syrian army.

Guards chief Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari said "the situation in Syria is very good" after the recapture of Palmyra, Fars news agency reported.

Foreign ministry spokesman Hossein Jaber Ansari also lauded Syria's victory and said that Tehran will continue to back the Assad regime and other governments battling extremism.

"Iran's support continues for the fight against terrorism in Syria, Iraq and countries exposed to this threat," Ansari told Iran's Arabic-language Al-Alam television.

"Syria will march forward strongly in the fight against terrorism and the terrorists definitely won't have a place in the future of the region," he added.

Syrian troops ousted the jihadists from the ancient city on Sunday almost a year after they had seized it.
Stocks (^DJI, ^GSPC, ^IXIC, ^RUT) struggle for gains midday, as crude oil (CLK16.NYM) weighs. The latest data released by the CFTC suggest that the big rebound in oil since mid-February might have been mostly short-covering. Keith Bliss of Cuttone & Co. joins us live from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange to discuss the markets.

Joining Yahoo Finance's Alexis Christoforous to discuss some of the other big stories of the day are Yahoo Finance's Rick Newman and our editor-in-chief, Andy Serwer.

Bidding war for Starwood Hotels heats up

The bidding war for Starwood Hotels (HOT) is heating up. It just crossed the $15 billion threshold, as the Chinese insurance company Anbang offered $88.66 a share for Starwood, beating out a prior bid from Marriott Hotels (MAR) that amounted to $14.41 billion last week. Shares of both Marriott and Starwood were up on the news. The move comes after a series of high-profile purchases by Anbang, including the Waldorf Astoria, that industry analysts say are being driven by a desire to get money out of China and into U.S. assets.

Buffett love

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway (BRK-A) is the news today. While the Oracle of Omaha is one of the world's most famous investors, his multi-billion dollar conglomerate isn't widely covered by sell-side analysts on Wall Street. Today, however, UBS tossed its hat in the ring and initiated Berkshire Hathaway with a "buy" rating. In related news, one of Berkshire's biggest bank investments has reached a critical threshold. Its ownership of Wells Fargo (WFC) has climbed to nearly 10%, which triggers a review by the Federal Reserve (SPY).

Streaming music battle

Pandora's (P) founder, Tim Westergren, is taking over as the company's CEO, sending the stock tumbling over 9% this morning. Meanwhile, rival Spotify is launching a new ad campaign, targeting customers in their late 30s and early 40s. Is the Pontiff really on board?

Elite Bingers

Finally, you might consider yourself a Netflix (NFLX) binge-watcher, but are you 'elite'? Netflix just revealed there's a tiny category of viewers who binge-watch an entire season of a show the minute it comes out, straight through without stopping.
JERUSALEM, March 28 (Reuters) - Noble Energy warned of the risk of a delay to the development of the Leviathan natural gas field off Israel's coast after Israel's Supreme Court blocked a crucial provision of a plan to develop the site.

The court late on Sunday approved most of the plan except for a stability clause vital to Texas-based Noble and Delek Group, its Israeli partner, that binds the government to the deal for 10 years.

The court gave the two sides up to one year to come up with an alternative legal mechanism for the government providing stability assurances.

Noble on Monday called the court's decision disappointing "and represents another risk to Leviathan's timing", in which the companies had hoped to complete the field's development by the end of 2019.

"Development of a project of this magnitude, where large investments are to be made over multiple years, requires Israel to provide a stable investment climate," said David Stover, Noble's chief executive. "Noble Energy has consistently maintained that stability is a minimum condition for project development, and our position has not changed."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached a framework deal last year with Noble and Delek that would leave them in control of the country's largest gas field, Leviathan, while forcing them to sell smaller, yet sizeable, assets.

"We will vigorously defend our rights related to our assets to protect shareholder value," Stover said. "It is now up to the government of Israel to deliver a solution which at least meets the terms of the framework, and to do so quickly." (Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Tova Cohen)
Pope Francis poses for a selfie with a migrant during his visit to the Castelnuovo di Porto refugee centre near Rome (AFP Photo/)

Rome (AFP) - The "crossing season" for migrant boats from Libya to Italy has not yet begun, yet arrivals are already up on last year's count, raising questions about where the new wave of tens of thousands will be housed.

Amid unseasonably fine weather and calm seas, warnings have been sounded in recent days over the number of migrants in Libya ready to attempt the perilous Mediterranean crossing -- 500,000 according to EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, while French Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian puts it closer to 800,000.

"In 2016, we risk having to manage a greater number of migrants than in 2015. We can pretend it's not true, but it is," said Giuseppe Sala, running as the centre-left candidate for Milan mayor.

The Italian Interior Ministry has so far registered 13,829 arrivals this year, compared with 10,075 in the same period in 2015, but it is unclear whether this marks a real increase in numbers or just an early start on movement usually seen in April.

According to Mussie Zerai, an Eritrean priest who has become a reference point for migrants in distress, there are currently "tens of thousands" of migrants waiting to disembark from Libya -- actually fewer than last year. However, there are also a large number of Eritreans in camps in Sudan, readying for the journey.

Waiting for them in open sea is a veritable armada: Italy's navy and coast guard, ships with the European anti-people trafficking operation Sophia and Frontex border control vessels. They work tirelessly to prevent shipwrecks and avoid disasters like the ones that saw 1,200 people drown over a few days in April last year.

Once picked up, the migrants are ferried to "hotspot" processing centres on the islands of Lampedusa and Sicily and in southern Italy.

The problem lies in what happens next: in 2014, only 37 percent of the 170,000 arrivals applied for asylum. In 2015, that number rose to 56 percent of the 153,000 newcomers. Many of the rest will have travelled to northern Europe.

Story continues

- System overload -

But with the EU's distribution system for refugees not working and the closing of borders in countries along migrant routes, Italy may be forced to hold on to the majority of people landing on its shores.

Closure of the Balkan route could even see diversions to southern Italy instead of Greece, increasing numbers further.

Italy has been forced to rapidly expand its reception centre facilities: in March 2014, it was hosting 29,000 asylum seekers; by 2015 the number had risen to 67,000, and by this March 106,000.

There are currently 8,000 people in centres run by the state, 20,000 in local council-run centres and 78,000 in temporary centres run out of hotels or similar buildings by private entities which receive government funding.

Would-be refugees are often housed in the centres for up to 18 months while they apply for asylum and file appeals to rejections -- meaning they are unable to free up space for fresh arrivals.

The interior ministry declined to comment on what plans the government has to shore up an overburdened system.

"Italy has a widespread system of emergency structures supported by the regions. Reconverted hotels, former schools... we will continue to find places," Flavio di Giacomo, Italy spokesman for the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), told AFP.

The pressure has forced authorities to get creative.

In Milan, a village of prefabricated houses, built for the security team behind last year's Universal Exhibition, was chosen to shelter migrants. However an outcry from right-wing protesters has forced the authorities to find a fresh alternative.

Claudio Palomba, chairman of Italy's union of prefects, or local administrators, said that "tenders have been launched across the country for new places in reception facilities. Even in areas where local officials are opposed, my colleagues find solutions."
* NTT Data to pay $3 bln excluding debt to expand globally

* Deal helps Dell trim debt, fund pending acquisition of EMC (Adds Breakingviews link)

By Greg Roumeliotis

March 27 (Reuters) - Japan's NTT Data Corp said on Monday it has agreed to buy Dell Inc's information technology consulting division for over $3 billion to expand in North America and bolster its services business.

The move will allow U.S. computer maker Dell to trim some of the $43 billion in debt it is taking on to fund its pending cash-and-stock acquisition of data storage provider EMC Corp , a deal worth close to $60 billion.

The Japanese company said it would pay around $3.05 billion, an amount that excludes debt and unspecified advisory fees.

The sale will also offer NTT Data, one of the world's largest technology services companies, a bigger foothold in the United States, where it is looking to expand in healthcare IT, insurance and financial services consulting.

Dell has also made progress in syndicating $10 billion of its financing package for the EMC acquisition dubbed 'term loan A', people familiar with the situation said earlier. This is expected to be increased in size by $500 million to $750 million due to strong demand, with the extra money to be used to downsize some of the more expensive tranches of the remaining $33 billion in financing, the people added.

The group of banks participating in the term loan A has been expanded from the original eight underwriters to 25, with more expected to join before the syndication is completed in the next week, the people said.

Formerly known as Perot Systems, Dell's IT services division is a major provider of technology consulting to hospitals and government departments. Founded in 1988 by former U.S. presidential candidate Ross Perot, it was acquired by Dell in 2009 for $3.9 billion.

However, Dell has since divested some of the unit's operations and integrated some others, which it is not including in the sale. Some of the unit's capabilities were seen by Dell as redundant in the wake of the acquisition of EMC.

Story continues

Dell has also been speaking to private equity firms about selling Quest Software, which helps with information technology management, as well as SonicWall, an e-mail encryption and data security provider, Reuters has previously reported. Together, Quest and SonicWall could be worth up to $4 billion.

Dell's acquisition of EMC, which is backed by founder and Chief Executive Michael Dell as well as private equity firm Silver Lake Partners, is subject to approval by EMC shareholders. EMC is expected to hold a shareholder vote on the Dell deal in May, allowing for the transaction to be completed sometime between July and October.

Reuters had reported first on Feb. 12 that NTT Data was in exclusive talks to buy Dell's IT services unit.

(Reporting by Greg Roumeliotis in New York; Editing by Dan Grebler and Christopher Cushing)
Tijuana US Mexico border crossing

The Jalisco Nueva Generacion cartel  one of Mexico's strongest and fastest-growing criminal organizations  is moving into Baja California, just across the border from the US, according to an official from the Mexican attorney general's office.

It seems increasingly likely that the CJNG, as the cartel is known, is challenging the powerful Sinaloa cartel for control of drug-smuggling territory there.

The announcement from Gualberto Ramirez Gutierrez, the head of the kidnapping unit within the Mexican attorney general's office, came after the apprehension of Marco Tulio Carrillo Grande, a former Tijuana policeman who was believed to be working as the head of the Sinaloa cartel's hit men in Baja California.

Carrillo Grande is suspected of organizing deadly attacks on both the Jalisco cartel and the Arellano Felix organization, two organizations with which the Sinaloa cartel is vying for control of the Tijuana plaza, or trafficking territory.

Carrillo Grande "is identified as responsible for coordinating the aggressions of the criminal organization to which he belonged against a rival group with which [Carrillo Grande's organization] is disputing the Baja California zone, which has provoked the current spiral of violence in that region," Ramirez Gutierrez said during a press conference.

Underworld alliances

Ramirez Gutierrez's comments about a possible inter-cartel turf war are "the highest-profile claim yet made by a Mexican official placing CJNG in Baja California," according to Insight Crime, and come after reports earlier this year that escalating violence in Tijuana was related to cartel competition over territory.

San Diego Tijuana US Mexico border

Nueva Generacion does not have a significant physical presence in [Baja California, where Tijuana is located], but has focused on forging alliances with members of the Tijuana underworld in a challenge to the Sinaloa cartel, Daniel de la Rosa, the public safety secretary in Baja California, told Sandra Dibble of the San Diego Union-Tribune in late February.

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Tijuanas homicide rate has jumped from 28 per 100,000 residents in 2012 to 39 per 100,000 in 2015, which made it the 35th-most-violent city in the world that year, according to a Mexican think tank.

Drug-related homicides were more than 536 of the citys 670 homicides last year. Moreover, Dibble reports, 71 homicides in January were the most the city has seen in the first month of the year since 2010.

State officials were confident that the rise in killings (which has occurred alongside a drop in other common crimes) is the result of organized criminal activity  and of CJNGs ambitions.

Violence has gone "up because a third group" that had not previously been in the city "is in the process of becoming established," the states deputy attorney general for organized crime, Jose Maria Gonzalez, told Dibble.

'There's the sense that  they're fighting'

The Sinaloa cartel  thought to be the most powerful trafficking organization in the world  and the Arellano Felix organization have competed for control over the Tijuana plaza for most of the last 20 years, with the Sinaloa cartel dominant for much of that time.

tijuana mexico

The arrival of the CJNG  one of North America's major meth traffickers  on the scene in the northwest Mexican city has the potential to increase the bloodshed, as the recent months have shown.

A relative newcomer on Mexico's narco scene, the CJNG emerged around 2010, reportedly from the remnants of a trafficking organization headed by Ignacio Coronel, an ally of Guzmans Sinaloa cartel (and reportedly Guzmans current wifes uncle) in Jalisco state in southwest Mexico.

Since then, the CJNG has established itself as one of the most fearsome cartels in Mexico, seizing control of much of southwest Jalisco state, corrupting many police forces, and engaging federal and military forces in bloody shootouts.

Tijuana crime scene Mexico

There have been rumors that CJNG and Sinaloa have cooperated to some extent. After Guzmans escape from prison in July, it was reported that CJNG had helped finance his escape.

While it has been hard to parse exactly what kind of relationship exists between the CJNG and Sinaloa cartels, rumors of CJNG expansion in to Sinaloa territory may be the latest development in a trend toward open conflict.

It was usually thought they were collaborators, that Jalisco was a junior partner with Sinaloa,"said Alejandro Hope, the security and justice editor for El Daily Post, during a discussion at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, in late January.

"But more increasingly there's the sense that they're rivals, and that  they're fighting, at least in some areas.

NOW WATCH: Forget 'El Chapo'  this is Mexico's most powerful drug lord





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King Midas Sinaloa cartel money launderer arrest

Mexican federal police and military units arrested Juan Manuel Alvarez Inzunza, aka King Midas, the alleged top money-launderer for the Sinaloa cartel of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, on Sunday in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca.

Alvarez Inzunza, who was on vacation in Oaxaca when he was captured without violence, was arrested on a provisional extradition warrant issued by the US, where he has been charged with money-laundering.

Alvarez Inzunza is linked with an international money-laundering network [operating] from cities like Tijuana, Culiacan, or Guadalajara and linked with other nations, like Colombia, Panama, and the United States, the Mexican federal police said in a twitter post announcing the capture.

The 34-year-old is suspected of operating money exchanges and cover businesses that laundered $300 million to $400 million a year for the Sinaloa cartel, operating primarily out of Sinaloa and Jalisco states on Mexicos west coast, processing a total of around $4 billion over the last decade.

He is believed to have run front companies purchased by third parties through money exchanges, and he is suspected of involvement in a drug operation in Jalisco.

Alavarez Inzunza usually confined himself to his areas of operations in Sinaloa and Jalisco, but in recent days he had relaxed his circle of security in order to take a vacation in the capital city of Oaxaca state. This, according to El Pais, facilitated Mexican federal forces efforts to capture him.

Mexico King Midas capture

He was transferred from Oaxaca to Mexico City, where he is under the supervision of the Mexican attorney general offices organized-crime division. Based on the warrant issued by a US federal court, Alvarez Inzunza faces extradition.

Story continues

Personnel problems

Alvarez Inzunzas arrest is the latest in a series of blows to the Sinaloa cartels ranks.

The organizations nominal leader, El Chapo Guzman, was recaptured in early January after six months on the run, and he too awaits likely extradition to the US. (How long his extradition will take, though, is unclear.)

Joaquin

At the end of January, 24 people suspected of being high-level Sinaloa cartel members were arrested in a covert US-Mexico law-enforcement operation on the Arizona border.

On February 9, Guadalupe Fernandez Valencia, a 55-year-old woman suspected of being one of the Sinaloa cartels top money managers, was arrested on the cartels home turf of Culiacan in Sinaloa state. She had been designated a Foreign Narcotics Kingpin by the US Treasury Department.

el mayo sinaloa

Alvarez Inzunza's arrest also came just a day after police in Sonora state, which borders the US, captured Raul Beltran Quintero, the Sinaloa cartels boss in the state, along with eight suspected members of the organization. They were detained with eight handguns, ammunition, and two vehicles that had been stolen in the US.

While the Sinaloa cartel is generally regarded as the most powerful criminal organization in the Western Hemisphere, if not the world, it is believed to operate as a group of aligned factions, rather than a centralized, hierarchical organization.

This structure  along with the fact that two other top leaders, Ismael El Mayo Zambada and Juan Jose Esparragoza Moreno, aka "El Azul," remain free  make it hard to judge just how much damage the capture of any one person does to the Sinaloa cartel as a whole.

NOW WATCH: The weird economic reason drug cartel members get head-to-toe tattoos





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By Nidhi Verma NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has approved an investment of 340 billion rupees (about $5 billion) over the next few years in its east coast oil and gas asset, in a bid to boost production and benefit from a change in government policy. Earlier this month, a top company official said ONGC would unveil an investment of around $5 billion by the end of March to develop the asset, with a view to tapping higher gas prices. The move comes close on the heels of a government decision in early March that allowed producers to claim a higher price for gas extracted from hydrocarbon basins located in the deep water and ultra-deep water areas of India, where development costs can be significantly higher. The investment also clears the air over two major issues that the company has faced for more than a decade - failing to increase production from its ageing fields and dragging its feet on development of the offshore asset which it acquired in 2005 under a swap agreement with UK's Cairn Energy Plc. The board of India's biggest oil and gas explorer approved the much-delayed investment plan into the fields, called cluster 2, which is expected to net peak production of 77,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil and 16.29 million metric standard cubic metres per day (mmscmd) of gas by fiscal 2021-22, said the company's Chairman and Managing Director, D K Sarraf. "This is the biggest ever financial decision taken by ONGC in its history," Sarraf said. Natural gas production from the field is expected to start from June 2019, while crude oil production will start from March 2020, he said, adding the plateau production at peak rates will continue for about 5-6 years. The increased production will help hike the company's profit after tax by $585 million by fiscal 2021, ONGC's Director - Finance, A K Srinivasan, said during a media briefing. The investment can potentially boost the company's crude oil output by 15 percent and natural gas output by about a quarter in the next 4-5 years, as per its production figures as on end-March 2015. The higher output will make it among the top producing fields in the country, after its Mumbai High field located in the Arabian Sea which produces 210,000 bpd of crude oil, and the Bassein natural gas field, also located in the Arabian sea, which produces 25 mmscmd of natural gas. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by Biju Dwarakanath)
Tim Westergren (bottom center-left) on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange June 15, 2011. REUTERS/Ben Hider-NYSE Euronext

By Kshitiz Goliya

(Reuters) - Online music streaming service Pandora Media Inc (P.N) appointed founder Tim Westergren as its chief executive to replace Brian McAndrews, who left the company on Monday, sending its shares down 10 percent.

The company also appointed independent board member Jim Feuille as chairman and promoted chief strategy officer Sara Clemens to chief operating officer.

Westergren, who co-founded the service in 2000, earlier served as the company's CEO from May 2002 to July 2004.

McAndrews, who took over as CEO in September 2013, also serves on the board of New York Times Co (NYT.N) and GrubHub Inc (GRUB.N).

McAndrews is known for his leadership of online display advertising company aQuantive Inc, which Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) bought in 2007 for $6 billion after paying an 85 percent premium.

Pandora, whose shares had fallen 32.5 percent in the last 12 months, faces stiff competition from Spotify, Apple Inc's (AAPL.O) Apple Music and Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O).

"I'm sure the stock performance was a factor in McAndrews' departure," Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter told Reuters.

Pandora last month reported disappointing fourth-quarter results with active listeners of 81.1 million at the end of December, a slight fall from a year earlier.

The company had said it planned to invest $345 million in 2016 to expand its paid subscription service and enter new markets, with an aim to achieve $4 billion in revenue by 2020. It reported revenue of $1.16 billion for 2015.

"McAndrews was pretty ambitious, and my guess is that Westergren will be a bit more deliberate, so we will likely see a slower roll out of their international expansion," Pachter said.

Pandora held discussions about selling itself, the New York Times reported last month. However, the company later said it was focused on working as an independent company.

"With the co-founder returning, a sale is less likely," Pachter added.

Pandora's shares were down 9.6 percent at $9.88 at midday.

(Reporting by Kshitiz Goliya in Bengaluru; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta and Maju Samuel)
Marc Benioff

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff posted a triumphant tweet on Monday after Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal announced that he's vetoing a controversial "religious freedom" bill.

Critics of the legislation, like Benioff, believed that if it became a law, then it would have legalized antigay discrimination in the state.

The bill permitted faith-based organizations to deny services based on a "sincerely held religious belief" relating to marriage, and to cite religious beliefs when making employment decisions.

Salesforce was among 400 businesses in an organization called Georgia Prospers that spoke out against the bill when Georgia's General Assembly was working on it.

Benioff: the antidiscrimination pied piper

But Benioff was more than just a voice among many. He's been a cheerleader against such legislation being crafted in several states.

He loudly took on Indiana last year, where Salesforce is a major tech employer, when it passed a similar bill. He threatened to cut financial investment in that state. Many others in Indiana joined him in speaking out against the bill. It didn't stop the legislation from being passed, but it did cause Indiana to modify the law afterward, saying that it could not be used to justify discrimination.

That mollified Benioff at the time, but in Georgia's case, he dug his heels in.

After the state's Legislature passed the bill, the company warned that if the governor didn't veto it, then "Salesforce will have to reduce investments in Georgia," including moving one of its big conferences out of Atlanta.

Other big names in tech also condemned the bill and encouraged Deal to veto it, such as Intel CEO Brian Krzanich. But he stopped short of saying that there would be consequences from Intel if the governor signed the bill into law anyway.

We oppose discrimination in all forms. @GovernorDeal do the right thing and Veto House Bill 757. Proud to be an #LGBTQAlly  Brian Krzanich (@bkrunner) March 17, 2016

Certainly, there were other ramifications for Georgia beyond Salesforce's threat.

Story continues

One tech entrepreneur, led by an openly gay CEO, is moving his tech company out of Georgia. Kelvin Williams, founder of telecom company 373K, told Business Insider that his company was personally welcomed by Delaware's governor.

The Georgia bill also garnered the ire of Michael Dell, Richard Branson, and a bunch of Hollywood big shots who said that they would abandon moviemaking operations in Georgia if the bill was signed into law.

Still, it's hard to minimize Benioff's contribution to this outcome, the vetoed bill.

He's been loudly trumpeting against it, at one point even criticizing Apple CEO Tim Cook for not personally speaking up as well.

During an interview with CNBC's Jim Cramer, Benioff said, "I think what Tim Cook should be doing is getting down right now to the state of Georgia and talking to those leaders about House Bill 757." Apple publicly opposed the bill.

All eyes on North Carolina

Next up, however, is North Carolina, which also just passed a law that critics say encourages discrimination against the LGBT community.

Thanks to the high-profile cases in Indiana and Georgia, the public outcry on the Carolina law was swift and immediate and reverberated beyond Benioff and the tech community.

Businesses like Bank of America, Salesforce, Red Hat, Apple, IBM, and Microsoft all quickly condemned the law. So did Hollywood. For instance, director Rob Reiner pledged to halt film productions in North Carolina until the law is repealed.

Still, Monday was a time for celebration, with the Georgia law dead and Salesforce's investment in the state safe. Benioff tweeted:

Thank you to everyone who made today possible. A day of equality for all. Thank you @GovernorDeal. pic.twitter.com/k2IUeqkGP4  Marc Benioff (@Benioff) March 28, 2016

NOW WATCH: Pope Francis: Government workers have a 'human right' to refuse same-sex marriage licenses





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UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon (C) arrives at the Sahrawi refugee camp of Rabouni, south of the Algerian city of Tindouf in the disputed territory of Western Sahara, March 5, 2016 Ban visited a camp for Sahrawi refugees, administered by the Polisario Front separatist group, as part of a tour of West and North Africa. (AFP Photo/)

United Nations (United States) (AFP) - The Security Council called for the UN mission in Western Sahara to resume working at "full capacity," in its first statement following a dispute between Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and Morocco.

The United Nations said Tuesday it closed its military liaison office in Dakhla, Western Sahara at the request of Morocco, which was angered when Ban referred to the "occupation" of the disputed territory.

The 15 Security Council member states, while refraining from taking sides in the dispute, called for the issue to be addressed "in a constructive, comprehensive and cooperative manner so that MINUSRO may resume its full capacity to carry out its mandate."

Angolan Ambassador Ismael Gaspar Martins, who is serving as Security Council president for the month of March, relayed the statement to the press after three hours of closed-door consultations.

Ban made the "occupation" remark early this month during a visit to a Sahrawi refugee camp in Algeria.

The Moroccans on Sunday expelled most of the civilian experts attached to the UN mission and have also closed the military liaison office.

According to the UN, the retaliatory measures are of grave risk to the mission, which has about 500 civilian and military personnel and was established in 1991.

Ban's comments crossed a red line for Morocco, which considers the former Spanish territory, which it annexed in 1975, as an integral part of the country, proposing self-government for the region under Moroccan sovereignty.

Gaspar Martins said Security Council members "expressed serious concern" about the situation and emphasized that the world body's 16 peacekeeping missions across the globe are meant to carry out critical tasks.
Integrated energy major Royal Dutch Shell plc RDS.A and Japanese oil firm Inpex Corporation remain committed to proceed with the construction of Indonesia's onshore Masela liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant. However, the companies will be requiring additional time to reformulate their plan of development.

Around six months ago, the companies had jointly proposed to build a huge floating facility to exploit the Masela gas block, located in the Arafuru Sea, Maluku. However, this offshore plan worth $14.8 billion suffered a massive blow when Indonesia's president rejected the proposal in favor of an onshore plant, citing economic benefits for the nation.

The Indonesian government officials also supported an onshore plant to maximize regional development in the Maluku region. Moreover, given that the project is expected to have a duration of around 10 years and will be requiring funding in large amounts, the government wants to do the construction onshore in order to benefit both regional and national economies. However, Shell and Inpex will have to bear the brunt of the new onshore project, which is expected to add up to $7.5 billion to the cost.

The Masela project plan was developed after the signing of a production sharing contract in 1998. The first development plan was approved with total gas reserves of 6.97 trillion cubic feet (tcf) by the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry. The Masela block is situated 180 kilometers away from the nearest islands  Selaru and Yamdena  in the Tanimbar Islands, and 600 kilometers away from Wamar Island in Aru Islands.

Headquartered in The Hague, Netherlands, Shell is one of the largest integrated oil and gas companies in the world. It explores for and extracts crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids. It has interests in chemicals as well as in power generation and renewable energy.

Shell currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), which implies that the stock will perform in line with the broader U.S. equity market over the next one to three months.

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Some better-ranked stocks in the broader energy sector are Braskem S.A. BAK, OMV Aktiengesellschaft OMVJF and Vanguard Natural Resources, LLC VNR. All these stocks sport a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).

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Other SMEs might be left behind.

Singapores recently-released Budget 2016 featured a big spike in tech spending, with the government committing up to $450 million to support a new national robotics programme. At Singapore Business Reviews (SBR) 2016 Budget Breakfast Briefing, experts weighed in on whether other sectors run the risk of being left behind as Singapore splurges on tech-oriented sectors.

I dont think the government is cherry-picking sectors, said Chia Seng Chye, Partner, Tax Services, Ernst & Young Solutions LLP. Chia noted that automation across all sectors has long been a key focus of government policy, and the increased tech spending in this years Budget is an extension of this trend.

Shanker Iyer, Chairman of Iyer Practice Advisers, said that he does not think that other sectors will get left behind with the increased focused on tech-oriented sectors. Technology is impacting everyday life. With the technology that is rapidly evolving, this is certainly a key area that we can develop. Companies in all sectors rely on technology to boost growth and productivity, he said.

Technology is changing the way we live, work and communicate. If you look at the tax schemes for innovation, clearly tech is on the forefront, said Lee Tiong Heng, Tax Partner, Deloitte Singapore. We can build up tech in other industries and sectors, Lee added.





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By Davide Scigliuzzo

SAN MATEO, Calif. March 28 (IFR) - At least one large fund manager is not buying into Argentina's turnaround story and believes the country's first international bond in over 15 years may not offer as much value as local debt in Mexico and Brazil.

In an interview with IFR, Franklin Templeton's Michael Hasenstab, known for making large bets in out-of-favor sovereigns like Hungary and Ukraine, said the risk the government may fall short on its ambitious plan made the Argentina story less attractive.

In coming weeks, Argentina is expected to start taking orders on a blockbuster bond worth US$12bn or more, which would allow the country to settle a decade-long dispute with holdout creditors and cure its 2014 default.

The move to regain international debt market access comes amid optimism about the country's outlook after newly elected President Mauricio Macri moved to address economic imbalances by depreciating the exchange rate, normalizing relations with creditors and lifting utility tariffs.

Large funds like Templeton, many of which have stayed out of Argentina's non-performing bonds over the past year and a half, are expected to provide strong demand for the multi-billion deal, which will lift the country's weight in global indices.

Assuming a US$12bn new issue, the country's weight is expected to increase from 2.58% to 3.25% on the EMBI Global Diversified and from 1.71% to 3.25% on the EMBI Global, according to a JP Morgan report in February.

Argentina - whose component on the EMBI Global Diversified returned over 26% in 2015, the second best performing credit behind Ukraine - is attracting accounts looking to buy into an economy on the mend.

But Hasenstab, the chief investment officer of Templeton Global Macro, is not rushing to buy.

"We have been out (of Argentina) for quite some time and even though we see probably some positive changes, we don't really see any value there," he told IFR.

"We are a little bit more in a 'show-me' phase and because valuations are not particularly cheap we are spending a lot more time on other countries."

Story continues

LOCAL BETS

Hasenstab prefers to focus on higher rated Mexico and Brazil, where he sees attractive opportunities in local currency debt.

"Mexico is one of the most mispriced assets out there," said Hasenstab, who praised the country's reform push in the oil, education and utility sectors and the central bank's response to selling pressure on the peso.

"The central bank has handled the speculative attacks adeptly," said Hasenstab.

"They waited for the market to get incredibly oversold ... then they came in. It was brilliantly orchestrated."

The Mexican peso has gained over 7% since the central bank caught the market by surprise on February 17 by hiking its reference rate by 50bp to 3.75% and intervened directly in the foreign exchange market for the first time since 2009.

Hasenstab is also confident Brazil will emerge from its current political and economic crisis without a debt default.

"Brazil is in the depths of one of the worst crises arguably since the 1980s. The difference is that we can see a path out," said Hasenstab.

"It is clear that the administration's legitimacy of pro cyclical and overly expansive monetary and fiscal policy are over. A change is inevitable."

Mexico's and Brazil's local-currency sovereign bonds are among the top holdings of the Templeton Global Bond Fund, through which Hasenstab manages some US$50bn of assets.

OUT OF VENEZUELA

And while he is no stranger to making multi-billion dollar bets on nations on the brink of default and has played a prominent role in Ukraine's debt restructuring, Hasenstab is taking no chances in Venezuela.

"We have invested in distressed debt and have gone through some tough restructurings, but I still don't feel comfortable enough to step into Venezuela," said Hasenstab.

Fears of a default in the country - the highest yielding sovereign in emerging markets - have been rising over the past couple of years after a 60% fall in oil prices eroded a vital source of dollar revenue for the government.

The country has so far been able to meet all of its debt payments, but investors are still pricing in a 68% probability of default over the next year as funding options narrow.

"In Ukraine we could see a path forward for the country. They just needed some financial engineering to get though a liquidity crunch," said Hasenstab.

"Venezuela is about solvency." (Reporting by Davide Scigliuzzo; Editing by Paul Kilby and Shankar Ramakrishnan)
Terrorist Toddlers? Guns at the Convention? How Absurd Can the GOP Get?

The word absurd has been thrown around more than a little with regard to the ongoing Republican presidential primaries. The original field of 17 has been winnowed to three during months of unbelievable posturing. It ranged from billionaire frontrunner Donald Trump comparing one of his opponents to a child molester, and then subsequently receiving the same mans endorsement, to Florida Sen. Marco Rubio claiming that President Obama is actively committing treason.

But a different kind of absurdity has been afoot in this election more frequently than in past contests, and in the last few days most of all: Its the absurdity identified by the form of argument known as reductio ad absurdum.

Related: Why a Trump Candidacy Threatens the GOP Majority in Congress

Think back a moment to November, when Republican candidates were trying to outdo each other with promises to protect the United States from the Islamic State by barring refugees from the Syrian civil war from entering the country.

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie was one of the loudest voices against allowing Syrians to seek refuge in the US, and in a radio interview with host Hugh Hewitt he found himself taking a position vulnerable to the reductio attack.

The argument can be paraphrased this way:

Hewitt: Governor, your position is that no Syrian refugees should be allowed into the US under any circumstances.

Christie: Correct.

Hewitt: What about refugees who are checked out by the government and determined to be no risk to the country?

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Christie: We cant be sure they arent terrorists. No refugees, period.

Hewitt: Okay, governor. What if were talking about an orphan under the age of five?

Christie: (actual quote) I don't think orphans under fiveshould be admitted into the United States at this point.

Hewitt, in effect, forced Christie to claim that he believes that an orphaned infant might pose a terrorism threat to the United States. Absurd, right?

Story continues

When one employs the reductio in an argument, thats the object: to prove an opponent wrong by demonstrating that holding his position requires accepting absurd conclusions. Its one we all learn as children, when we try to justify wrongdoing with the claim, But it was okay because everybody else was doing it.

Time out of mind, parents have replied, Well, if everyone else jumped off a cliff, would it be okay for you to jump off a cliff, too?

The power of the reductio, though, lies in the assumption that the person trapped in the logical fallacy will be forced to admit the absurdity of their position. And most people do seem to recognize the futility of trying to defend the position Yes, I would jump off a cliff if everyone else was doing it.

Related: Trump vs. Cruz Is Turning Into a Bare-Knuckled Bar Fight

But it doesnt seem to be working in the GOP field anymore. Just as Christie was willing to take a stand against terrorist toddlers, other GOP candidates seem equally immune to absurdity.

Take the pledge to support the eventual nominee of the Republican Party, whoever that person might turn out to be.

All of the GOP candidates took the pledge, and Donald Trumps various bigoted statements, combined with his lead in the polls, have forced them into uncomfortable places in recent weeks, none more so than Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, who may have won the prize this weekend.

Again, a paraphrase of Cruz:

Media: Senator, youve said youll support the partys nominee, no matter who it is.

Cruz: Yes.

Media: So, if it were the billionaire bigot, Donald Trump, whose candidacy would not only assure your party would lose this election, but might actually destroy its credibility with every non-white male demographic in the country for a generation, would you support him?

Cruz: Yes.

Media: Okay, just for arguments sake, what if on top of all the electoral arguments, the billionaire bigot also called your wife ugly in public and leaked a story to the tabloids alleging that you have had not one, not two, but at least five extra-marital affairs? Would you support him as the nominee then?

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Cruz: (actual quote) I'm going to beat him for the nomination.

Media: (actual quote) You didnt answer the quest

Cruz: (actual quote) Im answering the question. Donald Trump will not be the nominee. Donald Trump will not be the nominee. Donald Trump will not be the nominee.

Cruz, like Christie before him, cleaves so tightly to his original statement of support for the nominee  no matter who it is  that he cant bring himself to disavow Trumps candidacy even after the billionaire made him the target of one of the most shocking political attacks in recent memory. The best he can manage is some sort of ritual repetition of what he hopes is the truth.

Trump himself put on a show of dragging one of his (supposed) principles along with him into logical la-la-land over the weekend.

The Republican nominating convention is taking place later this year in Ohio, a state with open carry laws that allow licensed gun owners to carry weapons in public places. The Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, though, where the event will take place, has a strict no-guns policy.

Related: The Trump Network Was Scandalous. The Governments Response May Have Been Worse

An unknown organization claiming to support the rights of gun owners posted a petition on the site Change.org demanding that the GOP press the owners of the area to relax the ban, so that attendees at the convention are allowed to defend themselves against various threats, including a terrorist attack. Though pretty clearly a prank, the petition gained tens of thousands of signatures.

As a result, Trump, who declared himself the strongest candidate on Second Amendment issues months ago, had to reconcile his past statements with the demands of the petitioners.

Again, a rough paraphrase:

Media: Mr. Trump, you are a strong supporter of the right to bear arms.

Trump: The strongest.

Media: You have said that various mass shootings in the US and abroad, including massacres in Paris and San Bernardino, would have been stopped in their tracks if weapons were more widely distributed and open carry was allowed in more places.

Trump: Yes. If I had been there in Paris, Id have taken those shooters down.

Media: So, does that mean you will support a proposal to allow tens of thousands of GOP convention attendees to carry weapons onto the convention floor?

Trump: (actual quote) I have not seen the petition. I want to see what it says. I want to read the fine print.

So Trump, while stopping short of a full-endorsement of the idea of an open-carry convention, is unwilling to abandon his absolutist rhetoric. That means he has to suggest that he is willing to consider allowing a large number of participants in what will likely be an angry, confrontational event, show up on the floor with firearms. Oh, and a non-trivial percentage of them will probably be drunk, too.

Again, even if we wont admit it, as children we learn that, when trapped by a reductio, the only credible response is Well no, of course I wouldnt jump off a cliff. Thats absurd.

In this campaign, though, nobody seems able to admit even that, anymore.

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By Dustin Volz and Jim Finkle

WASHINGTON/BOSTON (Reuters) - Seven Iranian hackers conducted a coordinated cyber attack on dozens of U.S. banks, causing millions of dollars in lost business, and tried to shut down a New York dam, the U.S. government said on Thursday in an indictment that for the first time accused individuals tied to another country of trying to disrupt critical infrastructure.

It said the seven accused were believed to have been working on behalf of Iran's government and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard. Those named live in Iran and the Iranian government is not expected to extradite them. There was no immediate comment from Tehran.

At least 46 major financial institutions and financial sector companies were targeted, including JPMorgan Chase (JPM.N), Wells Fargo (WFC.N) and American Express (AXP.N), the indictment said. AT&T (T.N) also was targeted.

The hackers are accused of hitting the banks with distributed-denial-of-service attacks on a near-weekly basis, a relatively unsophisticated way of knocking computer networks offline by overwhelming them with a flood of spammed traffic.

These attacks were relentless, they were systematic, and they were widespread, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch told a Washington news conference.

The indictment from a federal grand jury in New York City said the attacks occurred from 2011 to 2013. Washington has previously accused military officers from China and the North Korean government of cyber attacks against U.S. businesses.

The attack on the Bowman Avenue Dam in Rye Brook, New York, was especially alarming, Lynch said, because it represented a known intrusion on critical infrastructure. A stroke of good fortune prevented the hackers from obtaining operational control of the flood gates because the dam had been manually disconnected for routine maintenance, she said.

The Bowman hack was a "game-changing event" for the U.S. government that prompted investigators to uncover other systems vulnerable to similar attacks, said Andre McGregor, a former FBI agent and a lead case investigator on the dam intrusion.

Story continues

"The investigation's discovery of many more exposed computer systems with vulnerable management consoles is a constant reminder that basic cyber hygiene remains at the forefront of the battle against cyber attacks," said McGregor, now director of security at Tanium, a Silicon Valley cyber security firm.

"We must step up our counter-hacking game ASAP to deal with threats from places like Iran and would be terrorists," said New York Senator Chuck Schumer in a statement.

Cyber security experts and U.S. intelligence officials have grown more alarmed in recent months by the possibility of destructive hacks of critical infrastructure such as dams, power plants and factories. Some have said a December cyber attack on the Ukraine's energy grid that caused a temporary blackout of 225,000 should serve as a wake-up call.

LONG MEMORIES

The defendants were identified as Ahmad Fathi, Hamid Firoozi, Amin Shokohi, Sadegh Ahmadzadegan, Omid Ghaffarinia, Sina Keissar and Nader Seidi, all citizens and residents of Iran. They are accused of conspiracy to commit computer hacking while employed by two Iran-based computer companies, ITSecTeam and Mersad Company.

Firoozi also is charged with obtaining and abetting unauthorized access to a protected computer.

The indictments are the latest attempt by the Obama administration to more publicly confront cyber attacks carried out by other countries against the United States.

The campaign began two years ago when the Justice Department accused five members of China's Peoples Liberation Army with hacking several Pennsylvania-based companies in an alleged effort to steal trade secrets. It continued with President Obama's vow to "respond proportionally" against North Korea for the destructive hack against Sony Pictures.

An important part of our cyber security practice is to identify the actors and to attribute them publicly when we can," Lynch said Thursday. "We do this so that they know they cannot hide.

U.S. officials largely completed the investigation more than a year ago, according to two sources familiar with the matter, but held off releasing the indictment so as to not jeopardize the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with Iran or a January prisoner swap.

Even though Iran is not expected to extradite the suspects, FBI Director James Comey vowed to pursue justice.

"The world is small and our memory is long," he said at the news conference with Lynch.

Dmitri Alperovitch, chief technology officer with cyber security firm CrowdStrike, said, This sends an important message to Iran and other governments that these people cannot operate anonymously.

The U.S. and Israel launched a cyber attack against Iran in 2010, now famously known as the Stuxnet worm, in order to disable Iran's nuclear centrifuges. Some security researchers and officials have long suspected the attacks against U.S. banks and the dam were done in part as retaliation.

Separately, the U.S. Treasury Department blacklisted two Iranian companies on Thursday for supporting Iran's ballistic missile programme and also sanctioned two British businessmen it said were helping an airline used by Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

(Additional reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York, Susan Heavey, Megan Cassella and Julia Edwards in Washington; Editing by James Dalgleish and Bill Trott)
A Virgin America Airbus A320, with Tail Number N633VA, lands at San Francisco International Airport, San Francisco, California, in this file photo dated April 14, 2015. REUTERS/Louis Nastro

(Reuters) - U.S. budget airline carrier Virgin America Inc (VA.O) has received acquisition interest from several companies, including JetBlue Airways Corp (JBLU.O) and Alaska Air Group Inc (ALK.N), a person familiar with the matter said on Monday.

Asian airline companies have also expressed interest in Virgin America, although they would have to partner with a U.S. bidder because of foreign ownership rules governing U.S. airlines, the person said.

Bloomberg reported earlier on Monday that Virgin America had received takeover offers from JetBlue and Alaska Air.

The source asked not to be identified because the sale process is confidential. Virgin America did not immediately respond to requests for comment, while JetBlue and Alaska Air declined to comment.

Burlingame, California-based Virgin America went public in November 2014 and now has a market capitalization of $1.37 billion.

Virgin America is the U.S. offshoot of billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson's London-based Virgin Group, which is involved in airlines, railroads, telecommunications, media and hospitality.

(Reporting by Greg Roumeliotis in New York; Editing by Steve Orlofsky and Grant McCool)
Shares of Virgin America airlines skyrocketed Monday after reports that the company has drawn interest in a sale from JetBlue and Alaska Air according to a report from Bloomberg citing a person close to the talks.

The report said that a deal could happen as soon as next week, but there is also a possibility that the company explores its options and decides to remain independent.

Last Wednesday, Bloomberg reported that the company was exploring a sale sending the company's stock soaring. The company has been public for less than 2 years and is part of Richard Branson's Virgin Group, flying to destinations in the US and Mexico.

A Virgin America spokesperson said the company "a policy of not commenting on any market or media speculation concerning mergers or acquisitions involving Virgin America." A spokesperson for Jetblue said, "As a matter of company policy, we do not comment on market rumors or speculation."

We have also reached out to Alaska Air and will update when we hear back.

After the news the company's shares jumped just over 10% as of the market close.

Screen Shot 2016 03 28 at 4.02.38 PM

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Yale University Campus

Connecticut lawmakers have been trying to dip into Yale University's $25.6 billion endowment. Now, the mayor of New Haven, Connecticut is backing a proposal that could make it easier to tax Yale's commercial real estate, the Associated Press reports.

The proposal attempts to distinguish between real estate that Yale holds for educational purposes, and is therefore tax exempt, and its commercial real estate property.

In her testimony supporting the proposal, New Haven Mayor Toni Harp used an example of a building that Yale recently purchased. Previously, the city received $275,000 annually in taxes for the property.

The city risks losing that taxable income since Yale, as an educational institution, owns the property  even though Yale stands to make money from the building for products and services it may sell, according to Harp.

Richard Jacob, a Yale associate vice president for federal and state relations, presented written testimony opposing the proposal backed by the mayor.

Given Yales unparalleled commitment to New Haven, and the gains made by the City of New Haven and Yale in building employment, expanding the tax base, and strengthening neighborhoods and schools, the proposal to single out Yale by imposing unprecedented, ambiguous, and sweeping new taxes on the University is troubling, Jacob said.

yale university campus

The mayor's push for this proposal comes amid similar proposals that appear to target the mismatch between Yale's massive wealth, and the fact that it enjoys tax exemptions as a university.

The Connecticut Legislature proposed a bill earlier this month that would tax income from Yale's $25.6 billion endowment, Bloomberg reported.

The legislation specifically targets schools in Connecticut with endowments of $10 billion or more. Yale is the only such school in the state with an endowment of more than $10 billion.

Story continues

And in January, a draft congressional bill grabbed the attention of America's massively endowed colleges and universities, as it proposed that schools with endowments of more than $1 billion use 25% of their annual endowment income toward student financial aid.

Colleges and universities would almost certainly balk at such requirements, as it would put billions of dollars of endowment funds at stake.

Schools use the help of in-house private-equity managers to grow their endowments  sometimes by huge margins.

But they are not taxed on their earnings because they're nonprofit institutions, an extra boost that normal hedge funds and private-equity funds don't enjoy. It's a benefit that some higher-education experts have argued should be reevaluated.

The top 10 university endowments by size hold an unbelievable amount of wealth. Harvard University's endowment had a 5.8% increase in 2015, bringing it to $37.6 billion. Yale University had an 11.5% increase, bringing it up to $25.6 billion.

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Taipei, March 28 (CNA) The National Security Bureau (NSB) said Monday that it will deliver to the Legislature during its current session a bill that bans Taiwan nationals from joining ISIS, which has claimed responsibility for several terrorist attacks around the world, including the one in Brussels last week that killed at least 30 people and wounded 230 others.
Ont. priest charged after allegedly gambling away more than $500,000 meant for Syrian refugeesBy Jennifer O'Brien , The London Free PressFirst posted: Thursday, July 14, 2016 03:47 PM EDT | Updated: Thursday, July 14, 2016 03:54 PM EDTLONDON, Ont. - He was supposed to be at court, charged with fraud involving more than 20 victims and more than $500,000 in missing money that was meant to help settle Syrian refugees in Canada.Instead, London Chaldean priest Father Amer Saka was in hospital Thursday morning,After a five-month probe, investigators have charged Saka with fraud over $5,000 and an offence called possessing the proceeds of property or a thing over $5,000.Saka had been in custody since turning himself into police headquarters Wednesday.He had been expected to appear at a bail hearing Thursday, but while his bishop was at the courthouse to act as his surety, Saka's hearing had to wait."He does have some health issues that have been addressed in the last few months. We don't know how serious they are, but he was taken to Victoria hospital and will be released," said Saka's Toronto lawyer, Iryna Revutsky, who was at court Thursday.Saka's bishop, Emanuel Shaleta was also at the courthouse, arranging to act as a surety for the priest if he got bail, but would not comment on the situation saying police had scolded him for talking to the media back in March.Saka -- who was the pastor at St. Josephs Chaldean Catholic church in London, and an administrator of the Mar Ouraha parish in Kitchener -- has been suspended from his duties and has stayed out of the public eye since March, when police said they were investigating reports that hundreds of thousands of dollars had gone missing from a refugee trust fund.At the time, Shaleta toldthat Saka told him he gambled away more than $500,000 given to him by families -- including seven or eight families from the small church in London -- who trusted Saka to hold it for refugee relatives under a private sponsorship program.Police would not comment on the allegations of gambling Thursday, but said Saka is alleged to have obtained money, "under the guise of a sponsorship program," to help settle refugees in Canada."The basis of alleged fraud is unique because it is alleged to have taken advantage of refugees who are using federal run programs," said London Police Const. Sandasha Bough.."There are more than 20 victims from Ontario, the U.S. and other countries," said Bough.Possibly more, she added.."The investigation is ongoing and we are hoping that if anybody was a victim or had any dealings with Amer Saka that they contact us," said Bough.Saka himself has refused to speak toreporters who have tried to reach him more than a dozen times in person and by phone since the story surfaced in March.On Thursday, his lawyer said Saka has "remained committed to his Christian faith and his parishioners," since news broke that police were investigating reports of hundreds of thousands of dollars going missing."He is a man of God, and he relies on God's mercy and he also asks for privacy during these difficult times," said Revutsky. "He is very grateful he has the support of the Chaldean Christian church and the support of his bishop Emanuela Shaleta."Asked if how he was going to plead in the case, Revutsky said she didn't know."It's such an early stage in the process, it's impossible to know," she said.Under the federal governments private sponsorship program, people who want to sponsor refugees must raise money to support the newcomers as they get settled. About $12,000 must be raised to sponsor one refugee, and $27,000 to sponsor a family.Faith-based organizations often partner with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to help with the process by holding the money, making the application and essentially vouching for the sponsors. The money is used for rent and expenses during the first year after newcomers arrive.Shaleta, head of Canadas Mar Addai Chaldean Eparchy, an Eastern Rite church that represents Catholics from Iraq and surrounding countries, and which is overseen by the Vatican, said the problem came to light in February, when he learned the priest was participating in the federal governments refugee-sponsorship program through the Hamilton Roman Catholic Diocese.Saka had been parish priest at St. Josephs for about eight years.Sakas London parish has a congregation of about 100 families, said Shaleta. Theyre among about 38,000 Chaldean Catholics across the countryWhen news broke that money for refugees had gone missing, many in the parish were worried their relatives would not be able to immigrate to Canada after all. However, the Hamilton Diocese said publicly it would help facilitate all sponsorships that had been started through Fr. Saka.On Thursday, in light of the charges, the diocese released the following statement from Bishop Douglas Crosby."In light of the recent charges laid against Father Amir Saka, I wish to affirm, that the Diocese of Hamilton remains committed to the continuing care and support of all refugees under the Dioceses sponsorship program, including those whose sponsorship may have involved Father Saka. The Diocese of Hamilton is not at liberty to discuss this matter further as the case is before the Ontario courts; however, I assure all who have contributed to the sponsorship program that the Diocese of Hamilton intends to continue its long established and important work in sponsoring refugees. Furthermore, the Diocese of Hamilton ensures that the refugees under its sponsorship care continue to be supported.Father Amer Saka, a priest working at the St. Joseph Chaldean Catholic Church in London, Ontario, is suspended, in treatment and under investigation after telling his bishop he gambled away nearly $500,000 given to him by families who thought he was holding it for refugee relatives (Facebook / St. Joseph Chaldean Cathoic Church photo)
Immigration is the new "No Nukes/Save the Whales" movement, only with more body bags.After the mass murder committed by Muslims in San Bernardino, which came on the heels of the mass murder committed by Muslims in Paris, Donald Trump proposed a moratorium on Muslim immigration.Explaining the idea on MSNBC's "Morning Joe," he talked about how Muslim immigration was infecting Europe: "Look at what happened in Paris, the horrible carnage. ... We have places in London and other places that are so radicalized that the police are afraid for their own lives. We have to be very smart and very vigilant."Trump's reference to London's no-go zones was met with a massive round of sneering, which is what passes for argument in America these days. Jeb! said Trump was "unhinged," Sen. John McCain called him "foolish," and former vice president Dick Cheney said Trump's remarks went "against everything we stand for and believe in." (Based on Trump's crushing primary victories, Cheney is no longer qualified to say what "we" believe in.)To prove Trump wrong, reporters called British authorities and asked them:They responded,The head of London's police said, "Mr. Trump could not be more wrong," and London mayor Boris Johnson called Trump's comments "utter nonsense."Within days, however, scores of rank-and-file London policemen begged to differ with their spokesmen, leading to the following headlines:UK Daily Mail: 'TRUMP'S NOT WRONG -- WE CAN'T WEAR UNIFORM IN OUR OWN CARS': Five Police Officers Claim Donald Trump Is Right About Parts of London Being So 'Radicalised' They Are No-Go AreasThe Sun: 'THERE ARE NO-GO AREAS IN LONDON': Policemen Back Trump's Controversial CommentsUK Daily Express: 'TRUMP IS RIGHT!' Police Say Parts of Britain Are No-Go Areas due to ISIS Radicalisationmore
A Fremont man convicted of having unprotected sexual intercourse multiple times with a 14-year-old juvenile was sentenced to prison Monday morning in Dodge County District Court.

Dallas J. Masterson, 24, previously pleaded no contest and was found guilty of third-degree sexual assault of a child and child abuse, both Class IIIA felonies.

Masterson was sentenced to serve three years in prison on both counts, which will run concurrently. He was credited with 164 days served in Saunders County Jail and under the Nebraska Good Time Law, Masterson could be eligible for release after 1  years.

Additionally, Masterson is being required to complete 18 months of post-release supervision.

Following an investigation by Joyce Henke of the Fremont Police Department, Masterson was arrested in late October and charged with four counts of first-degree sexual assault, Class II felonies, and one count of child abuse, a Class III felony.

Dodge County Attorney Oliver Glass said Masterson was in the girls home because of his friendship with her parents.

Since the incidents of sexual assault, Glass said that the juvenile has been attending counseling two times weekly.

This crime has greatly affected her, and will for a long time, he said.

Prior to sentencing, Glass asked Judge Geoffrey Hall to hand down a stiff prison sentence. While Masterson said that abuse of alcohol led to his poor judgment, Glass asserted that Mastersons actions were thought out and premeditated.

This wasnt a random situation, Glass said. This was a case where he knew the victim, knew she was underage and still took complete advantage of her.

Glass also noted that this isnt Mastersons first inappropriate interaction with a minor  he was charged with procuring alcohol to a minor in Sarpy County.

Mastersons defense attorney asked for a probationary sentence, highlighting Mastersons cooperation throughout the entire criminal process, saying that these were his first felony charges and also addressing Mastersons desire to complete outpatient treatment for substance abuse.

Judge Hall, though, said that he would not even consider probation as an option.

Before handing down the length of Mastersons sentence, Hall asked the defendant if he had anything he wanted to say to the court or anybody sitting in the courtroom.

I just want to apologize for my poor judgement growing up, Masterson said.

That it? Hall asked incredulously. Thats weak You groomed her (the victim), you preyed upon her and you took complete advantage of her.

In other District Court News:

*Brooke D. Stevens, 36, pleaded guilty and was found guilty of two counts of being in possession of a controlled substance  methamphetamine, a Class IV felony. Stevens faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a $10,000 fine and a term of post-release supervision.

*Nichole Szumowski, 27, of Columbus pleaded guilty and was found guilty of two counts of being in possession of a controlled substance  methamphetamine, a Class IV felony. Szumowski faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a $10,000 fine and a term of post-release supervision.

*Jeanne Rhone, 41, of Fremont had her probation revoked and was sentenced to serve one year in the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women. Rhone was credited with serving 66 days in Saunders County Jail and under the Nebraska Good Time Law, could be eligible for release in six months.
Mayor of Metropolitan Izmir; Aziz Kocaoglu announced their plans to start a new ferry service between Izmir and Lesbos (Mytilene). Mytilene is the capital and port of the island of Lesbos, Greece.

Speaking at the Greece-Turkey Sea Tourism and Investment Forum which is attended by businessmen and investors from the two countries, Izmir Mayor announced that construction of two high-speed vessels continues and he expects the ferry service between Izmir and Lesbos will start mid of 2017.

The Greece-Turkey Sea Tourism and Investment Forum is co-organized by the General Consulate of Greece in Izmir and the Maritime Chamber of Izmir today on Monday, March 28, 2016, in Izmir.

Mr. Kocaoglu said that Turkey and Greece, which share a common history and Aegean sea, should promote and do marketing together. That cooperation will also help to enhance peace in the region.

Speaking about the refugee crisis, Mr. Kocaoglu said that Turkey and Greece are the two countries most affected. Working together in both tourism and maritime industries will be an important step for the two countries at resolving the Cyprus issue. We can overcome the refugee crises and other difficulties through cooperation, added Mr. Kocaoglu.
When 2016 started there were no national elections scheduled in any of the five Central Asian countries. By the end of January, Kazakhstan had called snap parliamentary elections and Tajikistan and Turkmenistan were planning referendums to change their constitutions and allow the current leaders to remain in power indefinitely.

To some it was another reminder that changes in leadership are coming closer in Central Asia, where two of the presidents are already well into their 70s. Speculation has been rife for many years about who might come to power next in the individual states but, in at least four of the five countries -- Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan -- the systems are so opaque that even guesswork is difficult.

For example, no one outside of Turkmenistan (and probably only a very few inside Turkmenistan) would have thought prior to first President Saparmurat Niyazov's death in late 2006 that Health Minister Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov would have succeeded him to become Turkmenistan's second president.

This week, RFE/RL's Turkmen Service, known locally as Azatlyk, assembled a Majlis, a panel discussion, to look not at who specifically might succeed to the top posts in the Central Asian countries, but rather what path they would need to take to get there, whom they would need for allies, and what policies they would have adopt to gain legitimacy and support.

Azatlyk Director Muhammad Tahir moderated the panel. Julie Fisher Melton, author of "Importing Democracy: The Role of NGOs in South Africa, Tajikistan & Argentina," joined the talk from Washington DC. Also participating from Washington was Reid Standish, a journalist with Foreign Policy and author of the recently published article After Predictable Elections, Kazakhstan's Autocrat Ponders Successor. Taking part from Bishkek was Edil Baisalov, a former presidential adviser, currently one of the leading political analysts in Kyrgyzstan. And, since the succession question in Central Asia has been one of my obsessions for quite some time, I also chimed in with a few comments of my own.

No Universal Road Map

Nearly 25 years after they became independent, the five Central Asian states are now very distinct countries, so there is no road map to the top that would apply to all. The succession process will be different in each country.

In Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, the two largest countries in the region in terms of population, the presidents are the same people who were first secretaries of the Communist Party of their respective Soviet socialist republics when the U.S.S.R. disintegrated in late 1991. For citizens of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbaev, who will be 76 in July, has been the only president they've known. The same is true in Uzbekistan where Islam Karimov, who turned 78 at the end of January, has been the leader since the very beginning.

Being the second president will be difficult in these countries. But to get even that far, such a person will need help.

Standish suggested, for example, that, in oil-exporter Kazakhstan, the business elites would be a desirable, possibly indispensable, ally in becoming the president. But, Standish noted, "If you look at Uzbekistan, a lot of that wealth and power is generated domestically, so the security services will probably play a much larger role in Uzbekistan in a succession scenario [and] could even be the ones who take the reins of power."

As it stands now, the elites are almost certain to be the powerbrokers when it comes to installing the next Central Asian leaders. But this is an unwieldy basis for legitimacy in Central Asia as Melton pointed out. "I don't think elite arrangements have anything more than a very temporary effect on legitimacy," she said, adding that, "in the long run, civil society is the hope for institutionalization from below and without institutionalization from below you'll continue to have change at the top that really leads to no change at all."

The Islam Factor

The leaders of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan enjoy a legitimacy that derives in large part from their long tenures in power. Karimov and Nazarbaev can style themselves as "fathers of their nations," Standish said, while Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, in power since 1992, is playing on his image as the "originator of the peace," for his role in ending the 1992-1997 Tajik civil war. Such legitimacy, obviously, will not transfer to whomever comes immediately after them.

New leaders could find themselves in need of a new support base. If they choose, like the current leaders, to shun cooperation with civil society, where else could they turn?

Baisalov said the generational shift is already being felt in Kyrgyzstan and that "the new mass of [the] predominantly young population is completely different." Baisalov explained, "Currently the most popular person in Kyrgyzstan is one of the preachers, he calls himself 'sheikh' but you cannot imagine one political or any other personality who is collecting so much of an audience whose weekly videos are being watched by hundreds of thousands in Kyrgyzstan."

Islam has been a part of Central Asian politics for centuries. Despite the efforts of the region's distrustful presidents to mute its influence, Islam will increasingly be a factor in politics in Central Asia once again. Courting support among the faithful could help propel someone to the top position but it has always been a risky game in Central Asia, particularly for leaders who are not genuinely pious.

Russian Interests

Baisalov mentioned another key to succession in Central Asia -- the Kremlin.

"Russia will make sure that they play a role," he said. "They can deny recognition, they can try and interfere, they can try to provide some guarantees against, for example, if there is some security situation. The most important source of recognition and support and legitimacy will come from Moscow."

Indeed, it is difficult to imagine the Kremlin would refrain from interfering if a leader emerged in one of the Central Asian countries who was overly pro-Western, or pro-Chinese, or pro-Islamic. Recognition of Russia's interests in Central Asia is almost a prerequisite to gaining power.

The panelists recalled the starkly different transitions of power already seen in Central Asia. Turkmenistan's transfer of power in December 2006 after the death of first President Niyazov was smooth but completely opaque.

Kyrgyzstan, in contrast, saw two revolutions (2005 and 2010) that ousted presidents and violence accompanied each. (The country is now governed as a parliamentary republic with the president serving as head of state.)

The first two presidents of Tajikistan (Rahmon Nabiev and Akbarsho Iskandarov) were both essentially driven from power in 1992 as the Tajik civil war started.

The panelists went into greater detail, reviewing the path to succession and discussing what a successor might do to stay in power.

You can listen to the full roundtable discussion below:
Irondale, AL, March 27, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, P.C.P.A., known to millions around the world as Foundress of the EWTN Global Catholic Network, died peacefully at 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, surrounded by the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Ala.

This is a sorrow-filled day for the entire EWTN Family, said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw. Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded. In the face of sickness and long-suffering trials, Mothers example of joy and prayerful perseverance exemplified the Franciscan spirit she held so dear. We thank God for Mother Angelica and for the gift of her extraordinary life.

Born Rita Antoinette Rizzo in Canton, Ohio in 1923, she entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in Cleveland on Aug. 15, 1944 at the age of 21. A year later, she received her religious name  Sister Mary Angelica of the Annunciation. Soon after, the Cleveland Monastery established a new foundation in Canton, and Sr. Angelica was chosen to be a member of the community there. On Jan. 2, 1947 she made her first profession of vows and in January 1953, Sister Angelica took her solemn vows as a Poor Clare nun.

In 1956, while awaiting a delicate spinal surgery, Sister Angelica made a promise that, if God would permit her to walk again, she would build a monastery in the South. On May 20, 1962, Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Irondale, Ala. was dedicated by Archbishop Thomas J. Toolen of Mobile.

In Irondale, Mother Angelicas vision took form and her distinctive approach to teaching the Catholic Faith led to parish talks, the publication of pamphlets and books, then radio and television opportunities. By 1980, the Nuns had converted the garage of their monastery into a television studio.

Despite having only a high school education, no television experience and only $200 in the bank, Mother Angelica officially launched the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) on Aug. 15, 1981 and served as the Networks first Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. She famously refused to air paid advertisements to fund her Network, relying solely on viewer donations, despite coming close to bankruptcy on several occasions.

More than 34 years later, EWTN is the largest Catholic media network in the world, transmitting 11 separate television channels in multiple languages, reaching more than 264 million homes in 145 countries and territories. The Network now also includes multiple radio platforms, online and digital media outlets, global news services and a publishing group.

Known for her humor and ability to colloquially communicate the Catholic Faith to both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, her popular EWTN television show, Mother Angelica Live was launched in 1983. Episodes of the program continue to air regularly and have been translated into multiple languages including Spanish, German, and Ukrainian.

In addition to the Eternal Word Television Network and Our Lady of the Angels Monastery, Mother Angelica also founded the Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word, a religious community of men based in Irondale.

In 1995, Mother Angelica was inspired by God to begin construction of a new monastery and church on a nearly 400 acre site in rural Hanceville, Ala. By 1999, the nuns relocated from Irondale to the new site in Hanceville. Our Lady of the Angels Monastery and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament were formally dedicated in December 1999. The Shrine remains one of the most visited tourist sites in the State of Alabama.

Before stepping down as EWTNs Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in 2000, Time magazine described Mother Angelica as, "arguably the most influential Roman Catholic woman in America.

Throughout her life, she struggled with painful illnesses and physical challenges. On Christmas Eve of 2001, Mother Angelica suffered a debilitating stroke and cerebral hemorrhage which took away her capacity to speak.

In 2009, she was awarded the prestigious Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal by Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of her faithful and extraordinary service to the Roman Catholic Church. This past February, while on board the plane taking him to Cuba, Pope Francis sent a special blessing to Mother Angelica, and asked her for her prayers.

Mother Angelicas final years were prayerful and quiet, spent with her nuns at the Monastery she built in Hanceville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. CDT on Friday, April 1 at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville. Interment will immediately follow in the Shrines Crypt Church.

Because of limited seating capacity, admission to the Shrine for the funeral Mass will be by invitation only. The public may participate directly outside, in the Shrines piazza. Services will be broadcast by EWTN. Further information is available at www.ewtn.com.

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Irondale, AL, March 27, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Following the announcement of the death of Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A. this evening, several Catholic leaders issued statements reacting to the news of her passing. Known to millions of television viewers around the world, Mother Angelica founded two thriving religious orders, as well as EWTN, the worlds largest religious media network. Mother Angelica died at 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Ala.

Mother Dolores Marie, Superior of the Poor Clare Nuns of Perpetual Adoration of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery:

Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, P.C.P.A. passed peacefully from this life at Our Lady of the Angels Monastery on 5 p.m. CDT, Easter Sunday, March 27, in this Jubilee Year of Mercy, surrounded by the prayers and love of her spiritual daughters, sons and dear friends. Known as Mother to Millions to her EWTN Family, she untiringly exhorted all to pursue holiness by living with God in the present moment. We are grateful for your prayers for this courageous daughter of the Church and your support of EWTN, the media network that she founded for the salvation of souls. May our beloved Mother Angelica, Foundress of EWTN, enter through the Mercy of God into the joy of Heaven.

EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw:

This is a sorrow-filled day for the entire EWTN Family. Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded. In the face of sickness and long-suffering trials, Mothers example of joy and prayerful perseverance exemplified the Franciscan spirit she held so dear. We thank God for Mother Angelica and for the gift of her extraordinary life. Her accomplishments and legacies in evangelization throughout the world are nothing short of miraculous and can only be attributed to Divine Providence and her unwavering faithfulness to Our Lord. The important thing, as Mother Angelicas life and the lives so many of the saints have shown us, is to be faithful and to persevere. Mother Angelicas life has been a life of faith; her prayer life and obedience to God are worthy of our imitation. Everything she did was an act of faith.

The Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., Archbishop of Philadelphia:

Mother Angelica succeeded at a task the nations bishops themselves couldnt achieve. She founded and grew a network that appealed to everyday Catholics, understood their needs and fed their spirits. Mother Angelica inspired other gifted people to join her in the work without compromising her own leadership and vision. I admired her very much, not just as a talented leader and communicator, but as a friend and great woman religious of generosity, intellect and Catholic faith.

The Most Reverend Robert J. Baker, Bishop of Birmingham in Alabama:

Mother Angelica brought the truth and the love and the life of the Gospel of Jesus to so many people, not only to our Catholic household of faith, but to many thousands of people who are not Catholic, in that beautiful way she had of touching lives, bringing so many people into the Catholic Faith.

Father Anthony Mary Stelten, M.F.V.A., Community Servant, Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word:

The Franciscan Missionaries of the Eternal Word are deeply saddened by the death of our Foundress, Mother Mary Angelica, P.C.P.A. Mother was an inspiration for all of us in her contemplative life of adoration before the Most Blessed Sacrament and in the deep, personal relationship that she had with the Lord. Her friendly manner, pleasant wit, vision and enthusiastic zeal for evangelization so animated her mission at EWTN and inspired all who had the privilege of getting to know her in person or through the Network. In founding our Community, Mother Angelica imbued our manner of life with her own profound love for the Real Presence, devotion to Our Lady and the spirituality of St. Francis. She shared with us her special charism of evangelization through the modern means of social communication, most especially through service to the apostolate of EWTN. The friars will always treasure the unique relationship we had with Mother Angelica and the way of life that she inspired for us.

Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight, Knights of Columbus:

In passing to eternal life, Mother Angelica leaves behind a legacy of holiness and commitment to the New Evangelization that should inspire us all. I was honored to know and be able to assist Mother Angelica during the early days of EWTN. Over the years, that relationship grew, and today the Knights of Columbus and EWTN partner regularly on important projects. Mother Angelica was fearless, because she had God on her side. She saw what He needed her to do and she did it! She transformed the world of Catholic broadcasting, and brought the Gospel to far corners of our world. That witness of faith was unmistakable to anyone who met and worked with her, and generations of Catholics have, and will continue to be formed by her vision, and her "yes" to God's will.

###
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via PRWEB - Nexcess, a provider of performance-optimized managed hosting, has successfully completed its Type 2 SSAE 16 examination for the review period of February 1, 2015, to January 31, 2016 within the scope of Data Center and Web Hosting Services. The service auditor for the most recent examination was Schellman & Company, Inc.

The Type 2 SOC 1 (Service Organization Controls Report) examination is an indication of the quality of controls Nexcess implements over aspects of its business operations that may impact the financial well-being of partners and clients, including the handling of financial and other private data. Scrutiny of controls by a qualified third party demonstrates Nexcess' ongoing commitment to excellence in providing the highest standards of operational control and reliability.

"As a hosting company, we handle large amounts of sensitive data, including financial data, for our clients. It's important that we're able to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controls we have in place," commented Chris Wells, President and CEO of Nexcess, "By engaging an independent CPA to objectively examine the effectiveness of our controls for operations, compliance, security, and financial reporting, we transparently provide the reassurance that our clients need to trust us with business critical data and operations."

The Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements (SSAE) No. 16 replaces the older SAS 70 standard, and is intended to bring the United States into alignment with the international ISAE 3402 standard. For more information on this and related standards, visit http://ssae16.com/.

###

About Nexcess

Nexcess is a Southfield, Michigan-based managed managed hosting company founded in 2000, with data centers distributed throughout the United States, Europe, and Australia. Nexcess offers a variety of performance-optimized Magento, WordPress, ExpressionEngine, and vBulletin hosting services ranging from entry-level packages to custom clustered/complex hosting configurations, with an emphasis on achieving maximum performance for high-profile stores. For more information, visit http://www.nexcess.net.

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/prweb13288758.htm
San Francisco, March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2014, the global surfactant market was worth USD 25.60 billion. Development of detergents market predominantly in Latin America and Asia Pacific as a result of rising disposable income levels is likely to drive market growth. Moreover, growing oilfield chemicals demand on account of speedily growing E&P activities in China and North America is also expected to drive the global surfactants market.

Surfactants are used to diminish surface tension between a solid and a liquid or between two liquids in the form of emulsifiers, wetting agents, foaming agents, detergents or dispersants. They are used in numerous end-use industries for instance cosmetics, agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Constant progress in these sectors is projected to assist the major industry participants.

Browse to access In-depth research report on Global Surfactant Market with detailed charts and figures: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/amphoteric-surfactant-market

Anioinic surfactants was the largest product type which accounted for over 45% of the market in 2014. Increasing demand for linear alkyl benzene in cleaners and detergents on account of profitable characteristics of products led to the high market share. Amphoteric surfactant type is projected to witness the highest growth rate, at an estimated CAGR of 4.9% from 2015 to 2022. Amphoteric surfactants are extensively being used worldwide owing to their various properties such as conditioning, bio degradability, foaming & foam stabilization and detergency.

Surfactant application accounted for the highest market share of over 40% in 2014. Growing product demand in detergents, household cleaners and soaps accounted for the huge demand in home care segment. Personal care application is forecasted to witness the highest growth rate, at an anticipated CAGR of 5.0% from 2015 to 2022. The growing demand for new innovative products such as anti-aging creams and make-up is expected to drive the demand for personal care application.

Asia Pacific accounted for over 30% of the global surfactant market in 2014.Increasing demand for home care and personal care products along with rising awareness about bio-based products is projected to provide an upper hand over other regions in the near future.

BASF - Cognis was the leading company in 2014 contributing over 30%of the total market share of global surfactants market. Other major companies in the market include Akzo Nobel, Kao, Stephan, Rhodia, Clariant, Evonik, Croda and Huntsman. The major industry participants in global surfactants market are developing new innovative products. In addition, some of the key strategies of the industry participants include joint ventures, mergers & acquisitions along with efficient marketing strategies. Media platforms are projected to be utilized on a large scale for product promotion and differentiation.

Request for TOC of this research report: http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/amphoteric-surfactant-market/request-toc

Grand View Research has segmented the global surfactants market on the basis of product, application and region:

Global Surfactants Product Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenues, USD Million, 2012  2022)

Cationic surfactant

Nonionic surfactant Fatty Al Ethoxylates (AE) Alkyl Phenol Ethoxylates (NPE) Others

Anionic surfactant Linear Alkyl Benzene FAI Ether Sulfates Sulfosuccinates Others

Amphoteric surfactant

Other Surfactants

Global Surfactants Application Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenues, USD Million, 2012  2022)

Home Care

Personal Care

Industrial & Institutional Cleaners

Food Processing

Oilfield Chemicals

Agricultural Chemicals

Textiles

Emulsion Polymerization (Plastics)

Paints & Coatings

Construction

Other Applications

Others

Global Surfactants Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenues, USD Million, 2012  2022)

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

RoW

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RALEIGH, N.C. , March 28, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Golden Corral Corporation (www.goldencorral.com) kicks off its annual fundraising campaign on March 28 in restaurants nationwide. One hundred percent of the proceeds will support Camp Corral, a free summer camp for children of wounded, disabled or fallen military service members. Through the generous contributions of its valued guests and restaurant teams, Golden Corral aims to raise $1.6 million in this years campaign to send thousands of military children to Camp Corrals week-long camp sessions offered across the nation.



Golden Corral is a long-standing supporter of American veterans and is committed to honoring military families and service members. The company was the founding sponsor of Camp Corral in 2011, and continues to provide generous support to the organization, now a 501(c) (3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation. This years fundraising campaign runs from March 28 to June 19, and will collect donations from the restaurants guests, on Golden Corrals social media platforms, and through the companys email club. Noted actor and humanitarian, Gary Sinise  founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation, which backs many veterans causes  has long been a supporter of Camp Corral and his previously recorded public service announcement continues to be used to encourage support of the fundraiser. Over the past five years, Golden Corral has raised over $5 million dollars and more than 10,000 military children have attended Camp Corral.

Our company and franchise operators share a deep commitment to support children from military families, especially those with parents who have been wounded, disabled or fallen during service to our country, said Lance Trenary, president and CEO of Golden Corral. We are pleased to be a part of such an important cause and provide an amazing summer camp experience for these young heroes.

Camp Corral is a one-week camp experience where kids, ages 8 to 15, are free to be kids, far away from the day-to-day challenges they face as military children. Headquartered in Raleigh, Camp Corral works closely with some of the best camps around the United States to host each session. Each host camp is accredited by the American Camp Association or operates under its standards, and has been carefully selected to provide campers with a caring, nurturing and safe environment  one in which each camper is valued. Host camps provide activities that are fun, new and challenging, such as archery, horseback riding and ropes course challenges, under the watchful eye of highly trained staff. Additionally, a military and family life counselor is available on site at each camp. Thanks to the generosity of donors, Camp Corral is offered free of charge to military families.

We are very thankful for the support Golden Corral and its guests give to our organization, said Mary Beth Hernandez, chief executive officer of Camp Corral. Because of this generosity, deserving children from military families across the country will have the opportunity to experience the week of a lifetime learning new skills, creating lasting friendships and taking time to enjoy being a kid.

Golden Corral encourages the public to visit one of its restaurants during the campaign and make a donation to support this important program. Contributions to Camp Corral can also be made directly on the organizations website, www.campcorral.org, or mailed to the Camp Corral office located at 801 N. West Street, Raleigh North Carolina 27603.





About Golden Corral Corporation

Golden Corral, based in Raleigh, N.C., is the nations largest grill-buffet restaurant chain with 484 restaurants operating in 41 states as of January 1, 2016. Founded in 1971, Golden Corral specializes in offering unmatched quality, variety and value to its dining guests in a comfortable and casual buffet setting at an everyday affordable price. Golden Corral is famous for its variety, including USDA steaks cooked to order, rotisserie chicken, awesome pot roast, hot yeast rolls, and desserts like homemade carrot cake and the Chocolate Wonderfall. For more information, visit www.goldencorral.com.





About Camp Corral

Camp Corral, a 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt, nonprofit corporation, is a free, one-of-a-kind summer camp for children of wounded, disabled or fallen military service members. Since its founding in 2011 by Golden Corral, Camp Corral has grown to 21 camps in 19 states and has served more than 10,000 children. In 2016, Camp Corral launched a Fifth Anniversary Campaign with the goal to raise funds to send more military kids to camp. Although any child ages 8 to 15 from a military family is eligible, registration priority is given to children of wounded, disabled or fallen military service members. For more information, visit www.campcorral.org.

###
Story by Dave Hendrick



University of Virginia Darden School of Business students Phillip St. Ours (Class of 2016) and Brendan Miniter (Class of 2016) call the MBA for Executives (EMBA) experience a transformational one, a two-year program that has led to lifelong friendships, an expanded skill set and new professional opportunities.



As Miniter and St. Ours approach the transition to Darden alumni, they and many of their Class of 2016 colleagues are leaving their imprint on the Executive MBA, as well, establishing a first-of-its-kind Executive MBA Student Investment Fund (ESIF) that aims to be a permanent addition to EMBAs offerings.



Although the fund will be a practical outlet for professionals interested in researching investment opportunities, managing assets and trading, theres also an explicit attempt to more closely bind the students in the executive format to future EMBA classes and the Darden community as a whole.



In your second year, you not only recognize the mark the MBA program is having on you, but also the drive to leave a mark on the program itself. A drive to build a legacy, said St. Ours, a Charlottesville-based developer with a background in asset management. Ten years from now, this will be a bridge to connect to the future cohort. Thats what the extracurricular experience is all about.



The Darden Capital Management course is a well-known aspect of the residential MBA experience, allowing students to gain hands-on asset management experience among five funds with roughly $10 million in assets. However, there has never been an analogous option for the EMBA format, which was launched in 2006. The discrepancy is an understandable one, as EMBA students are only on Grounds intermittently and balance their Darden workload with full-time jobs and often families.



St. Ours said he found broad support and enthusiasm when pitching the idea to his EMBA colleagues, with a majority quickly expressing interest in the concept. Indeed, out of a class of 61, more than 40 EMBAs began to meet regularly over the course of First Year to discuss the potential new initiative.



Given the widespread interest, the EMBAs realized they likely needed to think beyond Darden Capital Management, which isnt structured to accommodate a large number of executive students with much different schedules than their residential MBA counterparts. Setting out to explore options for an extracurricular program geared exclusively toward executive students, the EMBAs met encouragement from EMBA Associate Dean Ron Wilcox and Assistant Dean Barbara Millar, who supported the twin goals of enhancements to the program and greater connections between EMBA students and Darden.



Wilcox alerted the group to endowment funds from the EMBA Classes of 2008 and 2010 earmarked for innovation in the EMBA program and tasked the group with forming an independent study group to formulate the nuts and bolts of such an offering.



Although setting up the new program was clearly going to be a significant time commitment, Miniter said he and his classmates were reminded of Darden Dean Emeritus Bob Bruners imploring of the EMBAs to say yes to the new and unexpected opportunities that would be coming their way.



The question of do you have time to do this comes up a lot, said Miniter, a former journalist and policy advisor at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Why are you going to Darden? You come here to do something different and make a change and do something thats not normally done. You have to jump at opportunities like this that come along.



A group of nine EMBAs took part in the independent study, doing the unglamorous work of devising policies and guidelines and soliciting support and feedback from faculty, administrators and alumni.



St. Ours stressed the work of a number of EMBA classmates that brought the fund from idea to fruition in such a short period of time. The inaugural leadership team includes St. Ours as CEO, Miniter as COO, Mac Livingston (Class of 2016) as chief investment officer, Generra Peck (Class of 2016) as chief communications officer and Andrew Zasowski (Class of 2016) as portfolio manager.



Eventually, the group settled on what seemed like three reasonable goals for the investment fund to achieve before the 2016 EMBAs graduated:



Raise at least $1 in additional funding to grow the funds for investment.

Make at least one trade.

Develop a leadership team in the next class of EMBAs who could take the baton. Any profits generated will remain in investments for now, and the ESIF team expects that members of a future cohort may devise policies and procedures around the use of returns.



For this to survive, we have to manage that first transition, said St. Ours, noting the complications of coordinating with a class with which they have almost no overlap. And yet, the groundwork for a smooth handoff appears to be in place, and St. Ours said roughly a dozen members of the EMBA Class of 2017 are interested in the program.



As they contemplated their first trade, the group of interested EMBAs recently engaged in their first stock pitch night, with a group of students offering a deep dive into an oil refining company. Such activities allow the fund members to both share potential expertise in their professional sphere  as well as skills developed or honed at Darden  while demystifying the mechanics of asset management.



Indeed, the funds backers believe the diversity of backgrounds among the EMBAs will make the fund a strong, nimble vehicle. Moreover, engagement with the fund could encourage future EMBAs to broaden their outlook regarding the sorts of professional opportunities available to them.



The point in all of this isnt necessarily to make this fund huge, said Miniter. There are two potential profits here: theres the money, but the other is what youre actually gaining from the experience. If you bring that kind of perspective to it, it brings a lot of clarity.



With a foundation in place and the outlook for the fund secured as a credit-garnering elective for future EMBAS, the ESIF backers hope they are leaving a program that can be built on and enhanced by future Darden Executive MBA classes.



We see this as an opportunity to continually improve and continually apply lessons learned, said St. Ours. We hope we can grow the asset base, but also every year grow the community.



Although in its infancy, Wilcox said he had little doubt that the fund would be a long-term contributor to the EMBA program.



I absolutely see this as something thats going to continue, Wilcox said, noting that his only concern will be finding enough course spots for all of the interested students. Its going to work because these guys did a lot of work.



This story originally appeared on Dardens News & Events page. To stay up to date on all current Darden happenings, we encourage you to bookmark that site and visit it often!




Tell us what you would want your learning team to know about you.

If you could go anywhere in the world with Darden, where would you go and why?

Charlottesville has a renowned film festival, book festival and vibrant music scene. What is your favorite film, book or song?

List up to three hobbies or interests you enjoy in your free time.

What is your short-term, post-MBA career goal and why?

:Describe the most important professional feedback you have received and how you responded to this feedback.

Optional Essay:

A final note:

UVA Darden 2017 Application Deadlines

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12:00 p.m. EST (noon)

12:00 p.m. EST (noon)

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, which include advising, editing, interview coaching, and a resume edit for the UVA Darden application.

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If you like the idea of constantly being thrown into the decision makers role, using the case method to navigate real-life business situations, then you may want to consider applying to the University of Virginias Darden MBA program. Darden is the second-largest case publisher in North America, and because of Dardens commitment to the case study method, a Darden student will examine over 500 business cases throughout the course of their 2-year Darden MBA studies.Many applicants will make the mistake of sweating over their one Darden application essay and then carelessly complete the rest of the application form. Darden actually has several short answer sections in its online application that provide applicants more room to demonstrate to the admissions committee that they are a great fit with the Darden program. Here are all of the questions that Darden asks in its application, with my tips in blue.(100 words max)Darden is one of the smaller MBA programs, with 324 students in the class of 2016. That class size means that every single students needs to be congenial: theres just no room for a jerk at Darden. Applicants who share an example here of contributing to a team  during a difficult situation, through a crisis, or just with a specific set of talents or personality traits  will be offering the Admissions Committee the opportunity to truly envision them in a Darden learning team (50 words max)Darden has an array of international experiential learning programs and expects every one of its students to take part in at least one global opportunity during their 2 years in the program. This is a very small space, so applicants should use it to identify a location somewhere in the world that excites them, then explain the unique opportunity to learn or make a difference that they envision there.(15 words max)Theres no room to explain your choice here but you can pique the Admissions Committees interest with your selection.(10 words each)Do you run for an hour every day (showing your drive and commitment)? Do you enjoy preparing elaborate meals for friends and relatives every weekend (showing your sociability and creativity)? Heres your chance to give the Admissions Committee some insight into what you do when you are not at work so they can start imagining the role you will play on campus.(150 words)You have room here for 2 small paragraphs to explain your expected path after you graduate from Darden. If your goals are seen as unachievable  for example, investment banking or consulting industry aspirations despite having a low GMAT score or a pharmaceutical general management ambition despite having no background or education in that field  then you will have weeded yourself out of the class. Darden also has a few fields to which they send most of their students; if you wish to stray greatly from them, you will need to demonstrate your ability to tap your own connections and network to help pave that path  as 15% of 2015 Darden graduates did.(500 words maximum)Dardens Assistant Dean of Admissions Sarah Neher has a nice explanation of what kind of story they are looking for in this video . She is very clear that applicants need to select a situation from their professional experiences and demonstrate that they listen to their managers about how they can improve their performance.There are two ways that applicants can approach this essay to find the right example worth sharing. The first is to try to refer back to your performance reviews or any particular conversations you had with a professional mentor or manager to remember some of the feedback you received. The second is to think about some of the greatest stretch roles you have pursued and think backward to the mentor or manager who nudged or encouraged you to pursue them. You can find more guidance on demonstrating the ability to accept feedback here Darden also offers applicants the opportunity to share additional information in a short 250-word Additional Comments space:If there is further information you believe would be helpful to the Admission Committee, please provide it.If you have any gaps in your experience, you may address them here. Alternatively, you may use this space to share your affinity for Darden or any details from your background that will entice the Admission Committee to meet you.Dardens online application form has no word limit for your job description in the Employment History, and a 1500-character limit to describe each activity in the Community Activities Since College section. While I would not recommend detailing every single project youve worked on in these sections, these spaces do certainly allow more detail than many other schools applications, which tend to be more parsimonious with their character limits in these sections. I recommend using some of the allotted space to describe your most significant initiatives, roles, and impacts to compensate for the limited essay space.***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***All applications for the full-time, residential MBA are due byon the deadline day. All decisions are released aton the decision release day. Jennifer Bloom has been a consultant with Accepted for 17 years and a Certified Professional Resume Writer since 2005. She is an expert at crafting application materials that truly differentiate you from the rest of the driven applicant pool. If you would like help with your applications, Jennifer can suggest a number of options that work with any budget. Want Jennifer to help you get accepted? Click here! This article originally appeared on blog.accepted.com Applying to a top b-school? The talented folks at Accepted have helped hundreds of applicants get accepted to their dream programs. Whether you are figuring out where to apply, writing your application essays, or prepping for your interviews, we are just a call (or click) away.Contact us, and get matched up with the consultant who will help you get accepted
A group of seven animal rights activists disrupted a moment of silence during Easter Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Midtown on Sunday, shouting, Easter is a time for love. No more shedding animal blood! as they were pulled from the hall by security guards. One member of the group, 23-year-old Jacob Martin, walked down the central isle with a bullhorn shouting that "only the devil" could create animals capable of love and joy just so humans can make them suffer and die. Martin wore a GoPro strapped to his chest, which some worshipers suspected was a bomb.

"I think we'll put a tape where the camera blinks next time to make sure people aren't confused," said Collectively Free spokeswoman Raffaella Ciavatta. "New York is such a police city that I can see how people would react that way."

**BREAKING**#CF Organizer, Jacob gets arrested for speaking out against the violent Easter tradition of eating the bodies of animals. Saint Patrick's Cathedral - New York St. Patrick's CathedralWhy disrupt a church? Why on Easter?The church is a place for communities to come together and it's during this moment that people need to be reminded of their true values such as thou shalt not kill. And on Easter we gather with our family and friends to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus while holding on to the violent tradition of feasting on the bodies of animals. Don't you think that's rude, ineffective. Aren't you antagonizing people?We find important to provoke a discussion about this, by any means necessary. If you look at history you will find other examples of movements who have challenged both the church and the public. Such as the LGBTQ movement, feminists, and racial equality. Don't you think you could have tried to talk to them first?You don't ask nicely when violence is being encouraged. What do you expect to achieve?We are looking to provoke a discussion about the animals whose voices are not being heard. Animals who are no different from the cats and dogs we call family. #AnimalRights #HolyWeek #Easter #EasterSunday #HeIsRisen Posted by Collectively Free on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Ciavatta said that while Martin was the only Christian among the protesters, her group sees significance in Easter Sunday from an animal-rights perspective. "Church is a place where community comes together, and people need to be reminded of their values like 'Thou shalt not kill,'" she said. "We [shouldn't] gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus while holding on to the violent tradition of feasting on the bodies of animals."

"Ham and lamb are big traditions at Easter," she added.



(via Collectively Free)

Martin was arrested and charged with interrupting a religious service about fifteen minutes into the noon mass, according to the NYPD. Ciavatta said on Monday that she and the other protesters were also handcuffed, until a person she believed to be associated with St. Patrick's asked that only Martin be arrested. "They were definitely very violent with us," Ciavatta said of the St. Patrick's security officers. "One of our activists lost her shoe when they were dragging her off."

A spokeswomen for St. Patrick's declined to comment on the service. According to the Post, Reverend Damian O'Connell said a prayer for the protesters, reminding congregants that Pope Francis calls us to interact peacefully with those who oppose us."

Ciavatta added that while she was not expecting a positive response from the congregants, she is surprised by the number of "hateful messages" that have already been sent to the organization via Facebook. In one direct message shared with Gothamist, a commenter writes, "You guys are all fucken [sic] idiots and i hope you all die and feel the flames of Hell."

Last October, Collectively Free protested the grand opening of NYC's first Chick-Fil-A, in part to challenge CEO Dan Cathy's public opposition to gay marriage. Were here to protest violence towards animals and LGBTQ individuals," Ciavatta said at the time. "Chick-fil-A perpetuates the idea that some lives matter more than others, and that is the root of all that is wrong with the world."


The three CBGB awnings

There's really no reason that a band like Jodie Foster's Army (JFA) should be mentioned in the same sentence as the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame. If they haven't paid attention to ELO, why would a little punk band from the '80s turn up on their radar? And yet for a brief moment in time, the Phoenix-based band was a thorn in the side of the Hall's Curatorial Director Howard Kramer.

Recently I took it upon myself to find out where all of the CBGB awnings areone (the final one) already had a known location: the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame. Another, my quest revealed, was with a former employee (who brought the awning briefly back to its old home for us last month). But what about the holy grail of CBGB awnings: the original?

It has long been rumored that the first awning was stolen by JFA after a gig at the venue in the 1980s. Throughout my investigation, several people involved with CBGB over time have confirmed this with me.



(Photo by Justin Shockley)

Some brief testimonials from former CBGB employees:

Louise Staley, who was head booker and basically ran the club from 1986, told me: "Rumor has it they hung it in their backyard."



Brendan Rafferty, the club's hardcore booker, told me: "The first awning was replaced after JFA stole it in 1987. [It] wound up in the backyard of JFA's house."



Drew Bushong, former employee who has one of the later awnings, told me: "I believe awning #1 [is the one] JFA stole, was up until '87. Before my time. I heard there's a pic of them under it, in their backyard and barbecuing... [that's] how everyone knew it was them."

There's no trace of the aforementioned awning photo on the band's Facebook page (which hosts plenty of other photos throughout their existence), so if this is all true they're purposefully keeping it under wraps. I have reached out to JFA several times since January, and have not received one response.

However, others keep coming forward with their own JFA stories regarding the awning, and the most interesting by far has been Kramer's.

Kramer worked at the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame from 1996 to 2014, and spearheaded getting a CBGB awning in there. While he succeeded in bringing an awning to their lobby, he didn't get the one he wanted: the original. Here's his story:

Around 1999 or 2000, we were having a discussion about what great and emblematic artifacts would be good additions to existing case we had covering punk rock in London and New York. The thought of displaying the CBGBs awning above the exhibit was worth investigating. I had known Hilly and Louise from my time working with bands and I put in a call to Hilly. He told me that the awning currently in place was not the original and that the first one was stolen years ago by some punk band. Pressed further, he thought it was Jodie Foster's Army. Hilly wasnt positive about it but confident in his suspicion. He was still pissed off about it being stolen and wanted it back. I proposed that Id try to get it back if hed allow it to be exhibited at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Hilly was okay with that. I called a friend of mine who had been deep in the indie punk scene in the '80s and '90s and asked if he knew anybody in JFA. Fortunately, he knew them well. When I told him why I was trying to contact them, he said he thought they had the awning and was kind enough to give me a phone number. I called and reached Brian and his wife. I dropped my friend's name and told them what I did and they were very friendly. Then I mentioned the awning. They immediately became measured with their answers. They didn't deny having the awning but they didn't flat out admit having it either. I told them that Hilly knew that they had it and he would be happy if they donated it to the Rock Hall. I tried to appeal to their sense of fairness. I admitted it was a great prank but maybe it was time to do the right thing. They told me they would discuss it and I promised to follow up. They never took my call again.

We have reached out to Brian Brannon of JFA directly, and will update on the off chance we ever hear back. Until then, hold your breath and watch one of their sets from CBGBs:
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(Courtesy of the NYPL)

Just like in Venice, and that other Venice in Los Angeles, Manhattan once had canals. The Heere Gracht was a canal that ran down Broad Street into the East River for thirty years, from 1646 to 1676.

Here's some brief background from Hidden Waters (a companion site for the excellent book of the same name):

Prior to colonial settlement, Broad Street was a brook that drained from the Shaape Waytie, or Sheep Pasture. Along the way, a smaller tributary called the Beaver Path linked with the inlet. This was the southernmost interior waterway in Manhattan. Just as the capital of the Netherlands had a network of canals running through its commercial center, New Amsterdam would as well. In 1646, the colonial government transformed the inlet into the Heere Gracht, Beaver Path became Begijn Gracht and the inlets northernmost block was named the Prinzen Gracht, after canals with the same names in Amsterdam. The canals were wide enough for small boats and soon after New Amsterdams handover to the English in 1664, it became an outdoor dump. The colonys new masters did not care for canals and ordered the Heere Gracht filled in 1676.

There are several maps of the City of New Amsterdam showing the canal (which then turned into what was called Prince Street), as well as another one on a section of Beaver Street (then known as "The Beaver Path").

The most famous is the Castello Plan, created by Jacques Cortelyou in 1660 (which you can view here, and here's a then & now overlay).

This is a redrafted version from 1916, created by by John Wolcott Adams and Isaac Newton Phelps Stokes.



(Courtesy of the NYPL)

Presumably, intersecting Bridge Street was named such for the first bridge once went over the canal (you can see three on that above map). According to this photo in the NYPL's archives, one of these was a fishing bridge:



(Courtesy of the NYPL)

Here's some more on the canals from George Everett Hill and George E. Waring, Jr., circa 1899.

[During the early Dutch settlement] an inlet of the bay, which could be made to do duty as a canal, extended inland for about a quarter of a mile on the line of the present Broad Street. This ditch was the natural outlet for a marshy section of considerable size lying above what soon came to be known as The Beaver Path, now Beaver Street. By the late 1640s the canals were lined with sheet piling to stabilize both their banks and the narrow streets on either side. The largest canal was the Heere Gracht [Gentleman's Canal], which is now Broad Street from Pearl to Beaver Streets. Its narrower continuation, from Beaver Street to a point just south of Exchange Place, was called the Prinzen Gracht. Both were named, perhaps in jest, after two elegant canals that had recently been built in Amsterdam. The Bever Gracht was a branch canal along what is now Beaver Street from Broadway west to about the present New Street. A drawback of the canals was that they also served as open sewers and stank terribly. The British filled them up in 1676.

Not quite the picturesque scene you get on the Venice canals.
Kick the day's dreariness to the curb with a full schedule of plans for the week. Whether you're looking to spice up your wardrobe, sip beer and watch movies, or wander through a high-concept dream world in (where else?) Bushwick, we've got five excellent ideas that deserve a place in your calendar.

For some, Spring is the perfect time of year to update the wardrobe with the changing weather. If you're on a budget, you could try one of NYC's best thrift shops, OR stop in at one of NYC's best performance venues for House of Yes's clothing and costume swap. The place is hosting an ad-hoc bazaar of costumes, fabrics, equipment, and more. It'll be fueled by drink specials and the usual HoY cast of unforgettable characters, so stop in, stock upon lycra and glitter masks, and strut out a winner.

Monday, March 28th, 7-11 p.m. // House of Yes, 2 Wyckoff Avenue, Brooklyn // Free

We know you're usually hanging out at Halyards Bar for the board games, but why not try a little mind-expanding film, animation, and video art pieces during the Gowanus Filmmakers Festivalpopcorn provided! Completely free screenings of new works by Sean Gannet and Matt Suter, Mickey Dwyer, Ginny Leise and more will be on deck this week.

Wednesday, March 30th, 8 p.m. // Halyards Bar, 3rd Avenue and 6th Street, Brooklyn // Free



via facebook

If you've never delved into the borderline hallucinogenic instrumental beat music of Tobacco, stop right now and check this out. The producer and multi-instrumentalist has a twisted sense of rhythm, melody, and beauty, and is known to project wild (and somewhat disturbing) imagery all over venues during his shows. We can't promise you'll come out of it...undisturbed, but we can guarantee you'll hips will be shaking even as your head explodes.

Wednesday, March 30th, 6 p.m. // Brooklyn Bowl, 61 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn // Tickets $15







via facebook

Genre-defying, Mercury Prize-winning, eardrum-splitting Scottish trio Young Fathers visit New York City quite often, but that doesn't mean you can afford to miss themnot even once. Their feverish mix of trip-hop, South African house, punk, and R&B makes for a sound experience unlike any other. If your LCD Soundsystem lottery attempt didn't pan out, this will help get all your pent-up problems out of your heart and onto the dance floor.

Saturday, April 2nd, 8 p.m. // Music Hall of Williamsburg, 66 N 6th Street, Brooklyn // Tickets $18



via facebook

Take a long draught from Brooklyn's own fountain of youth at The Grand Paradise, an immersive theater experience meant to transport you to a late '70s beach resort. Produced by Bessie-award winning Third Rail Projects, the dreamy installation encourages its guests to interact with the strange denizens of a fictional Floridian resort. As you enter, your tour guide will welcome you with a lei, a tropical drink, and an invitation to "quench your deepest longings." Dig out your best Hawaiian dad shirt and travel back in time for a night of physical and intellectual exploration, man. (Kellylouise Delaney)



Runs all week; Showtimes at 7 and 10:30 p.m. // 383 Troutman Street, Brooklyn // Tickets $95-150
Police are searching for an alleged coward who they say has been robbing elderly women in Brooklyn and Queens. The suspected weasel previously struck on March 2nd at around 1 p.m., following a 91-year-old woman into her Park Slope brownstone, choking her, flashing a gun, then pushing her into the foyer and demanding cash. The victim, Elizabeth Gioino, told CBS2, "I said, 'Please leave me alone! Im a sick woman! Im old enough! Leave me alone!'"

Around that time, cops say a 50-year-old man encountered the pair, and the robber pointed his gun at him and took his money, too, making off with $370 altogether.

Cops say the serial home invader has attacked four other times, most recently on Saturday in Kensington. He allegedly followed an 83-year-old woman into her building near Ocean Parkway and Beverly Road and, waiting until she entered her apartment, knocked on her door. When she answered, he hit her in the face with a hard object, but did not take anything, according to the NYPD.

Each of the other three instances follow a similar pattern, though he usually took cash. In one case, he allegedly tried to tie up his 71-year-old victim in her Park Slope home, and in another he followed a 43-year-old man into his home in Prospect Heights, and once inside, robbed him and an 81-year-old woman who was there at the time. The brutal robberies date back to January 20th, and also took place in Ridgewood, Queens.

Police describe the suspect as 40-60 years old and standing 5-foot-10. He was last spotted wearing a black jacket. He appears to have white hair.

Police ask people with information about the crimes to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-8477, or for Spanish, (888) 577-4782. People can also submit tips at the Crime Stoppers website or by texting tips to 274637.
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" " A researcher is reflected in a monitor showing the pre-implantation genetic diagnosis procedure he's performing. Fairfax Media/Fairfax Media via Getty Images

When Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman appeared in the movie "Gattaca" back in 1997, the technology that drove the plot didn't yet exist. The story was supposed to take place sometime in the 2020s. In that near future, medical science had advanced to such a degree that parents could ask experts to genetically tinker with their embryos in order to create near-perfect human specimens.

The idea was not that anybody had grand plans to create a master race, but simply that parents wanted to give their children the best possible start in life, and those who could afford to, did. Affordability was key. In "Gattaca" the result was that society had become stratified into two classes, "valids" born to parents who could afford to make sure they had perfect genes, and "in-valids" who were born the old-fashioned way and were deemed genetically inferior.

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Compelling sci-fi fantasy, but fantasy nevertheless. Right? Well, as it turns out, "Gattaca" wasn't that fantastical after all. Around the time the film came out, scientists were already working with a new fertility-related technique called preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). This technology evolved with the growth of in vitro fertilization (IVF). PGD allows clinicians to analyze the DNA of an embryo that's just days old. The analysis can find those rare conditions that are caused by a single gene mutation, like Huntington's, Tay-Sachs or cystic fibrosis. In fact, the technique was supposed to be used only when such unusual, but debilitating, diseases were considered likely to appear [source: Jabr].

Of course, one problem with this technology is that it can be imprecise. Think of the earlier case of Colman Chadam who had the genetic markers for cystic fibrosis but never developed it. And, as is the way with technology, unintended consequences always appear. In one remarkable case, rather than screening to prevent a perceived disability, a deaf, lesbian couple wanted to ensure their child would in fact be born deaf. Every sperm bank they queried refused to screen for the condition, claiming they didn't accept sperm from deaf men. In the end, a family friend provided the necessary genetic material, and the couple's son was born partially deaf. While some bioethicists and doctors were outraged, the couple argued that deafness is a culture, not a disability and that they had every right to want their child to be a part of their community [source: Jabr].

Since the development of PGD, people have also used it to make sure their kids won't be the "wrong" sex. In fact, sex selection is one of the more common uses of the technique. It's illegal in Canada and the U.K., but not in the U.S. That's because there are rare cases where you can avoid a genetic disorder by selecting for a specific sex. Doing it for other reasons (e.g., you just really want a daughter) is frowned upon but not policed [source: Jabr].

And speaking of unintended consequences, forensic geneticists have been able to link certain physical characteristics like eye and hair color to genetic makeup. Already, the head of an international group of fertility clinics has proposed offering parents the ability to customize their children's appearances [source: Jabr]. Although he was roundly condemned for this by other clinicians (not to mention the Vatican), it's not hard to believe that when such technology becomes available, there are parents who will quietly opt for it. Right now, there's no law that says they won't be able to. And the fear is that in the absence of laws, the market will rule. And if the market rules, and genetic technology continues to develop, the consequences could be rather Gattaca-ish, with a society divided between those born into families who can afford to genetically modify their children and those who can't. That'll be an all-new kind of genetic discrimination.
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Brokered political conventions are neither good nor bad. Sometimes they are simply necessary. That could be the case with the Republicans this year, as it was in 1952 and 1976.

The Montana delegation was bitter-enders at the contested 1952 Republican national convention. The contest for the Republican presidential nomination was between Ohio Sen. Robert Taft, and Gen. Dwight Eisenhower.

Taft, the Republican Senate leader, was fondly known in Republican circles as Mr. Republican. He was a prominent member of the party establishment. The Ohio senator had opposed most of the New Deal programs. He and his supporters were critical of the me-too Republicans who had decided to accept them. Eisenhower, the insurgent candidate, popularly known as Ike, was a newcomer to Republican politics, with no record on the issues.

The Montana delegation went to the national convention in Chicago pledged to Taft. While Taft and Eisenhower had each prevailed in five state primaries, and neither had a majority of the delegates necessary to win the party nomination, Taft had slightly more delegates than Eisenhower when the convention opened. The competition for a majority of delegates was fierce, and the maneuvering intense.

The critical development occurred over the seating of the Georgia and Texas delegations, where the established Republicans had considered only Taft loyalists to be delegates to the national convention. The Eisenhower faction challenged the seating of the Texans and Georgians, making a persuasive case for fair play in the convention floor debate. Their challenge prevailed, and with the seating of substitute delegations, Eisenhower pulled ahead of Taft in the delegate count.

On the first ballot, Ike led 595 to 500, with 604 needed to win the nomination. Before a second ballot could begin, sensing that Eisenhower was the probable winner, numerous delegations began changing their votes to support him. When the dust settled, it was Eisenhower 845, and Taft 280. Among the bitter-enders for Taft who didnt get on Ikes bandwagon was the entire Montana delegation.

In 1976, the Republicans again convened with no majority candidate. Challenger Ronald Reagan slightly trailed President Gerald Ford. The Montana delegation was unanimous for Reagan.

The Reagan supporters suspected that the Ford forces had hinted to several prominent senators and governors that they were likely to be tapped by Ford to be his running mate. Reagan therefore publicly named as his running mate, Pennsylvania Sen. Richard Schweiker, and proposed a rule to the convention that would require both candidates to reveal their running mate choices before any balloting for president. Reagan hoped that those not chosen by Ford, perhaps feeling deceived, would release their delegations to vote for Reagan. When the rule failed by a slender 51 vote margin, it was clear that Ford had a lock on the votes to win the nomination, which he did, 1187 to 1070, with the Montanans sticking with Reagan.

It now appears possible, for the first time since 1976, that no Republican candidate will have a majority of delegates going into the 2016 national convention. Montana Republican primary voters need to know that by new state party rules, at least through the first national convention roll call vote, this years delegation must all agree to support the candidate who finishes first in the June 6 primary election.

This is important because, occurring late in the process, Montanas primary and its small but solid block of 27 votes could be decisive in determining whether there will be a brokered convention. So, in this years Republican primary election, cast your ballot carefully.

Bob Brown is a former Montana secretary of state and state Senate president.
By Diana Ghazaryan

Those who tout Armenias relatively tasteful and additive free fruits and vegetables need to take notice.

These photos show a portion of the 12 kilometer section of the Artashat irrigation canal, that supplies water to communities in Ararat Province, a major agricultural region in Armenia, which runs through Yerevan.

I took these photos on February 20 of this year. As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Believe it or not, the canal had been cleaned out two weeks before.

Roudik Meghryan, who lives on Bournazyan Street in Yerevans Erebouni district, paralleling this stretch of the canal, recounts, Years ago, a tourist was walking by the canal. He couldnt stomach it and asked is this your Armenia?

Residents told me that the tractors werent able to fully clean the canal. Finding the task futile, the workers just left after piling the garbage along the canal wall.

Local resident Karen Nikoyan says he helped neighbors collect the trash left behind.

They cleaned the canal that day. You should have seen the upper portion. After they left, I and other neighbors came with a hose and pushed the trash back into the canal. No garbage trucks ever enter this neighborhood.

Local residents say they have no idea who is dumping garbage into the canal. Armik Grigoryan, who lives close by, says he asked the community council to install a camera near his garage to identify the litter bugs and fine them.

All day long I tell my neighbors that if I catch them dumping their trash into the canal Ill publicly expose them. I stand guard here all day just to keep them from littering. Many get irritated but what can I do. I cant even open a window.

Another mitigating factor is that the water in the canal brings garbage from upstream. When it hits the wall, the trash collects and dams up. Residents say they fear the day when they wake up and see that the canal water has overflown its banks and has seeped into their homes.

Residents want the council to install garbage bins right along the canal and to clean the waterway several times a year, and not just once. They claim they have contacted the council regarding the issue for years and have also petitioned Sanitek, the company contracted to carry out rubbish removal in Yerevan. They havent visited the area, despite their promises to do so.

Edward Yenokyan, who heads the communal services division at the council, takes issue with this claim. We havent received any calls from Bournazyan Street because there is no such problem. Its not like we dont have the bins and cant install them. If some location requests bins, that request is fully satisfied.

Yenokyan then suggests that I give his phone number to local residents in order that they call him and jointly decide where to place the garbage bins.

Sevan-Hrazdanyan-Djar Ltd. is the company that cleans the canal. Company director Samvel Hovhannisyan says they perform a major canal clean once a year and that excavators periodically show up to remove the floating trash.

Despite the fact that residents blame various municipal agencies for the problem, its clear that they are the ones littering the canal in the first place.

Trash bins are located between 50-100 meters from protesting Bournazyan Street residents.

Photos: Hermine Virabyan

(Diana Ghazaryan is a fourth year journalism student at Yerevan State University)
Spanish police have dismantled a drug ring and arrested 20 people suspected of using helicopters to fly in hashish from Morocco, a Saturday news release by the Spanish Civil Guard said.

Police searched 14 houses in locations including Madrid, Malaga and Cadiz and arrested suspects with Spanish, Moroccan, Romanian and Ecuadorian nationalities. Two helicopters, 15 vehicles, 1,500 kilograms of hashish, and  220,000 (US$ 245,000) in cash were seized, along with marijuana plants.

Authorities were alerted that the group was planning to land a shipment of drugs near Malaga, police said. The Associated Press (AP) reported that a pilot, who had been transporting drugs during his weekend temporary releases from prison, was arrested on March 6, along with several others. The pilot was serving a sentence for an undisclosed crime in the coastal city of San Sebastian, Agence France-Presse(AFP) said.



Police said the gang would remove the blades and hide the helicopters inside a trailer truck or warehouse when not in use.



In a separate operation, authorities said they had arrested five suspects in Spain, seven in Estonia and detained three in Poland who were suspected of working together using cars with false floors to transport hashish, according to AFP. Authorities seized 1.2 tons of hashish in raids across Europe, along with several luxury cars and around 20,000 (US$ 22,000) cash in Spain. The hashish was allegedly being transported from Spain to Russia, Poland and Estonia.



Spain is a major transit point for drugs entering Europe, AFP said. Last October, the Spanish Civil Guard also reported having dismantled two criminal organizations using helicopters to smuggle hashish into Spain, seizing nearly a ton of hashish and three helicopters.

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A new report by a psychologist led a former Madison man who is accused of going on a two-day, three-county crime spree in 2013 to enter new pleas of not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect for felony charges in two upcoming trials in Dane County.

James Kruger, 38, had previously entered not guilty pleas to charges of first-degree recklessly endangering safety and felony bail jumping following the crime spree that ended with his arrest near Mount Horeb following a high-speed chase on Sep. 9, 2013. He also had entered a not guilty plea to a charge of fleeing or eluding an officer during a different incident five days earlier. Trials for both cases are scheduled for late May.

Independent medical examiner William Merrick was hired by Krugers family to evaluate Kruger, and his recently finished report showed that Kruger had potentially multiple mental health problems, said Krugers mother, Barb Nicholson.

A hearing has been scheduled in Grant County this Friday, where Kruger could enter a new plea of not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect to charges that include armed robbery, false imprisonment, strangulation and suffocation, and fleeing and eluding an officer, said Krugers attorney, Ron Benavides.

Krugers trial is scheduled to begin in Lancaster on April 5. No trial date has been set in Iowa County.

Trials in all three counties have been delayed partly because Kruger has been sent to Mendota Mental Health Institute on several occasions for competency evaluations or drug treatment. He has been housed most recently in the Grant County Jail but was ordered to Mendota again last week by Grant County Judge Robert P. VanDeHey for involuntary administration of psychotropic medications, according to court documents. Since there were no beds available at Mendota, Kruger was staying in the Dane County Jail until one opened up, Nicholson said.

At his hearing Friday, Kruger was accompanied by seven bailiffs when he arrived in the courtroom of Dane County Circuit Judge William Ehlke to enter his pleas. Just prior to Krugers arrival, Ehlke told the courtroom that he got word from the bailiffs that Kruger had been uncooperative and appeared dangerous while he was being led to the courtroom from the Dane County Jail. At that point, Benavides entered the pleas for Kruger but, minutes later, Ehlke allowed Kruger to make an appearance in front of him after Kruger promised he would behave.

Last September, Kruger was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge William Conley in Madison after Kruger pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing a firearm as a felon that stemmed from the two-day crime spree. Conley ordered the sentence to be served concurrently with sentences Kruger receives following his trials in the three counties.

According to court documents:

Kruger stabbed a man on Madisons East Side on Sept. 9, 2013. The next day, Kruger went to his uncles home in Cassville and attacked him, stealing money and three guns. Kruger then drove to a farm near Cassville and pointed a gun at a farmer and his wife.

The farmer said he convinced Kruger to drive with him to a nearby slaughterhouse to unload a cow. Instead, Kruger took the farmer hostage and they drove around Grant and Iowa counties while pulling a trailer with the cow inside it. The farmer eventually escaped near Dodgeville and Kruger dumped the truck, stole a car and was arrested near Mount Horeb after a high-speed chase.
Hillary Clinton on Monday urged a small crowd at UW-Madison to consider future rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court when casting a ballot in Tuesdays presidential primary and in Novembers general election.

Clinton, the former secretary of state and current front-runner in the race to become the Democratic presidential nominee, said to a group of invited guests at the Gordon Dining and Event Center that the next president is likely to appoint more than one justice to the nations highest court and warned of the impact of a Republican candidate making those choices.

This election has ripped away the curtain and made it absolutely clear to everyone how essential the Supreme Court is, Clinton said. I will keep talking about it and advocating and calling on the Senate to do its job and I hope there will be a great chorus of voices across our land that will do the same.

Its our Constitution, its our court and its our future, said Clinton, who stopped Monday in Madison and Milwaukee, kicking off a two-day tour of Wisconsin in advance of its April 5 primary.

The state provides Clinton an opportunity to all but seal her case that she should be her partys nominee. If she wins here, Clinton then could sharpen her focus on her three potential Republican foes in the general election: businessman Donald Trump, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas or Ohio Gov. John Kasich. Primary opponent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is crisscrossing the state this week, too, and spoke to a crowd of thousands on Saturday in Madison.

Speaking to the invitation-only crowd of about 250, Clinton urged the Republican-led U.S. Senate to stop its blockade of President Barack Obamas pick to fill the current vacancy on the high court, federal judge Merrick Garland.

Clinton said Republicans in the Senate who are refusing to hold confirmation hearings on Obamas nominee are effectively ignoring the voice of voters who twice elected Obama.

We chose a president  we chose him twice. And now Republicans in the Senate are acting like our votes didnt count and President Obama is not still our nations leader, she said.

Clinton also singled out Wisconsins own Sen. Ron Johnson, one of the Republicans who has declined to hold hearings or votes on Garlands nomination. Johnson, R-Oshkosh, has called for Obamas successor to name a justice, citing the highly politicized atmosphere of a presidential campaign.

It marked the first time Clinton has spoken so pointedly on the Supreme Court vacancy, created by the recent death of former Justice Antonin Scalia.

This is their job but they refuse to do it, said Clinton.

Betsy Ankney, campaign manager for Johnson, said Clintons comments were ironic.

Its ironic that career politicians like Hillary Clinton and (opponent former Sen. Russ Feingold) are saying do your job given that its their decades in Washington that have led to out-of-control spending, dangerously weak national security, and big government infringement on our freedoms, Ankney said in a statement. Ron is doing his job by protecting the Second Amendment rights of Wisconsinites and working to find other areas of bipartisan agreement. Maybe these career politicians should follow the example of someone with real-world experience.

Clinton closed the address by taking questions from the audience for about 30 minutes. When asked whether Garland fits her criteria for a Supreme Court justice, Clinton skirted the question and said she didnt want to second-guess Obamas pick.

But she offered that she would not appoint someone who thought Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion nationwide, wasnt settled law, or someone who was not troubled by the 2010 Citizens United v. FEC case that cleared the way for corporations, unions and nonprofits to raise unlimited funds to make independent expenditures on elections.

Clinton said during her address that if the high court did not overturn that decision, she would seek a constitutional amendment to limit the amount of money special interest groups may spend in elections.

The idea, I believe, that money is speech turns our Constitution upside down, she said.

Sanders is popular in Madison, especially among college students at UW-Madison. Even so, one of the first audience members to find their seats on Monday was Jack Nortman, a 21-year-old junior majoring in political science and history.

Nortman said Clinton represented to him a way to continue what he described as economic progress under Obama.

I think for me its an issue of, are we going to move forward? said Nortman.

Former Gov. Jim Doyle, who also attended the event, said he expects Clinton and Sanders to battle in a close primary but speculated Clinton would come out ahead.

I think this is going to be a very, very close primary, which is a very different thing, Doyle said. I think Hillary will win Wisconsin in November, which is what counts.

Wisconsin  as the 33rd state to vote in the Democratic presidential primary and 34th for the GOP  is shaping up as a pivotal contest for both parties.

For many Democrats, it is regarded as a state that Sanders must win to preserve a viable path to the partys nomination.

Sanders, who held one of his first campaign events in Madison last summer, drew about 8,000 to the Alliant Energy Center on Saturday for a rally.

Polls show Clinton and Sanders locked in a tight race in Wisconsin.

A recent Marquette Law School poll showed Sanders leading by 1 percentage point.

Another poll by Emerson College pegged Clinton with a 6-point lead, 50 percent to 44 percent. Both leads fell within the polls margins of error.

Before Clinton left Madison, she stopped in Anthology on State Street with Madison Ald. Mike Verveer  buying about $110 worth of goods including a red, chunky necklace, a couple pins and a print of a Neil deGrasse Tyson quote: The good thing about science is that its true whether or not you believe in it.

Verveer said his parents are family friends of the Clintons. Verveers mother, Melanne Verveer, worked for Clinton when she was first lady.

Shop employee Lindsay Quella, 23, said she had about an hour notice before Clintons visit.

Theres never been this many people in here, she said, referring to journalists and campaign staff.

State Journal reporter Mark Sommerhauser contributed to this report.
Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton will speak in Madison on Monday, two days after her Democratic opponent, Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, drew a large crowd here and touted his campaigns momentum.

Clinton will make remarks to invited guests at UW-Madisons Gordon Commons, 770 W. Dayton Street, at 3:45 p.m. Doors open at 2:45 p.m. A UW-Madison news release says the event is not open to the campus community or the public.

Because of Clintons appearance, Lake Street will be closed to traffic between Dayton and Johnson streets, starting at about noon, and to pedestrians after 3 p.m., until the event is over.

After Madison, Clinton will head to three more cities in Wisconsin  Milwaukee, La Crosse and Green Bay  this week before the states presidential primary.

Clintons daughter Chelsea made a swing through the state last Thursday, with appearances in Madison, Milwaukee and Waukesha.

Sanders drew an estimated 8,000 people to the Alliant Energy Center on Saturday and said Wisconsin is a key state for him.

Sanders scored wins in Washington state, Alaska and Hawaii caucuses on Saturday but remains well behind front-runner Clinton in the delegate count.

Republican contender Ohio Gov. John Kasich will also campaign in Madison on Monday. A town hall meeting is scheduled at the Sheraton Madison Hotel at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Kasich will appear at an event in West Salem on Monday as well.

Republican front-runner Donald Trump will hold a rally at the Janesville Conference Center on Tuesday at 3 p.m.
Ronald Reagan is dead, and hes not coming back.

I wish more conservatives could come to grips with this relatively simple fact. We are now in something like the fifth round of the pin-the-tail-on-the-next-Reagan game and its getting old. Catering to the conservative base, the GOP presidential candidates keep trying to put on the Reagan mantle the way Cinderellas ugly stepsisters tried to cram their dogs into her glass slipper. Not gonna happen.

I wrote the above nine years ago. Im not plagiarizing myself to save time, but to point out that Reagan obsession on the right has been a problem for a long time. Every election season, Republican candidates start rising to their feet to declare, like the slave rebels in Spartacus, Im Ronald Reagan! No, Im Ronald Reagan!

My favorite version came from Bob Dole in 1996. He couldnt bring himself to fully commit to the play-acting, saying instead, Ill be Ronald Reagan if thats what you want.

My objection to this Reaganophilia isnt derived from any antipathy toward the Gipper. He was a great man and a great politician.

Rather, the problem is with using Reagan as a kind of ideological shorthand. Asking What Would Reagan Do? about challenges Reagan never faced has limited value.

Before the GOP became the Party of Reagan, it was the Party of Lincoln. But you wouldnt expect a Republican politician to spend a lot of time promising to free the slaves or preserve the Union. Trying to see todays economic problems through Reagan-colored glasses isnt impossible  were still over-regulated by a too-large government  but it can be distorting.

Similarly, casting the war on terrorism as a replay of the long battle against communism (which Reagan won) can be done, but it requires bending reality to theory. Marxism was a relatively brief and modern imposition on ancient cultures. Islam is an ancient religion, and radical Islam is an effort to fight off the imposition of modernity. Different threats and different contexts require different thinking.

All of these criticisms still stand. Whats different these days is the desperate effort to insist that Donald Trump is a new Reagan  not by Trump himself, but by a kind of conservative priesthood eager to prove by analogy what it cant prove with facts or logic.

Newt Gingrich, Bill Bennett and Rudy Giuliani are just a few of the prominent conservatives miraculously finding Reaganism in the outbursts of a loutish and crude real estate developer the way the high lamas of Buddhism try to identify a new dalai lama based on a babys gurgling.

Most of their arguments are shockingly spurious given the intellects involved. Among the most common: They said Reagan couldnt win, too. Logically, this has nothing to do with Trumps alleged resemblance to Reagan (or Trumps general election chances). They  whoever they are  also claimed Kermit the Frog couldnt win 270 electoral votes. That doesnt mean they were wrong, or that Kermit is an amphibious Reaganite.

Indeed, all of the They said X about Reagan, too arguments are preposterous, but one stands out: They said Reagan was a dunce, too.

Of course, they were wrong about Reagan. But the they in 1980 were overwhelmingly liberal. Trumps most important critics are overwhelmingly conservative. The claim that conservatives in 2016 are wrong about Trump because liberals 36 years ago were wrong about Reagan is a hard one to diagram on a grease board. And getting to the conclusion that these combined errors mean Trump is Reagan-like is the logical equivalent of crossing a canyon in three leaps.

In terms of personal character and ideological seriousness, Trump and Reagan could not be more different. Reagan was one of the most dignified politicians of the 20th century, one who turned his cheek to vicious attacks, refused to use profanity and rarely showed an angry side. Meanwhile, Trumps crude and vengeful streaks virtually define the man.

Reagans ideological principles were derived from decades of reading, speaking and debating. Trump, meanwhile, is winging it.

I dont think he has an ideology, Pat Buchanan told the Washington Post. He very much is responding to the realities that he has encountered and his natural reactions to them. Its not some intellectual construct.

Here lies both the irony and farce of the cult-like effort to anoint Trump as the second coming of Reagan. The one meaningful similarity between the two men is that they can both be seen as authentic responses to their times. The difference? Reagan was the right response.
Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-03-28 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/> CONTENTS [01] Work at Thessaloniki metro resumes after four years [02] ANA-MPA signs cooperation agreement with Kazinform [03] Fire fighters battle to contain blaze at Aspropyrgos paint and ink factory [01] Work at Thessaloniki metro resumes after four years Construction work at the tunnels of Thessaloniki's unfinished metro resumed on Monday after four years of inaction due to legal and financial problems, the company and the Infrastructure ministry announced. Infrastructure Minister Christos Spirtzis inaugurated the operation of the first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) named "Hercules" at the main section of the tunnels while "Aktor", the second TBM will resume operation in April. "Hercules" is covering 10 meters per day. Giannis Milopoulos, the president of the company responsible for overseeing the construction project, Attiko Metro, and construction company "Aktor" estimate work will be completed by 2020. On his side, Spirtzis said the ministry has already signed a contract to conduct archaeological work at the site worth 25 million euros which will start very soon. [02] ANA-MPA signs cooperation agreement with Kazinform The Athens News Agency-Macedonian Press Agency (ANA-MPA) signed a cooperation agreement with Kazakhstan's national news agency "Kazinform." The agreement was signed in Astana, capital of Kazakhstan, by the Director General of Kazinform Dauren Diyarov and the president and general manager of ANA-MPA Michalis Psilos. The agreement provides for the exchange of news, videos, graphs and information materials on bilateral and international issues. Kazinform was founded 95 years ago and broadcasts news in Kazakh, Russian, English and Arabic. It is also planning to broadcast news in Chinese and Spanish. It employs more than 100 reporters and correspondents in Russia, China, the United Arab Emirates, Belgium, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Kazinform is a member of the International Union of News Agencies 'Oana' (Organization of News Agencies in Asia and the Pacific) in which ANA-MPA is interested to participate as an observer, given that hundreds of thousands of Greek migrants and expatriates live in Australia and New Zealand. [03] Fire fighters battle to contain blaze at Aspropyrgos paint and ink factory Fire fighters in Attica came out in force on Monday, in efforts to contain a blaze that broke out at a paint and ink factory on Megaridon Street in Aspropyrgos earlier the same morning.A force of 81 firefighters and 27 fire-engines, eight people on foot and five water tankers are now battling the fire. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-03-28 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/> CONTENTS [01] Misinformation harms the refugees, minister tells ANA-MPA [02] President Pavlopoulos to visit Israel on Tuesday [03] Bells in Berlin, Mytilene will chime in unison on Tuesday, to raise awareness of refugee crisis [01] Misinformation harms the refugees, minister tells ANA-MPA The misinformation that spread twice in Idomeni is bad for the refugees and puts their lives at risk, Alternate Minister for Civil Protection Nikos Toskas told ANA-MPA in an interview on Monday during a visit to Lesvos. "Our intention and the intention of most NGOs is to assist all those people. Therefore there should not be any kind of misinformation. Misinformation hurts refugees, places them in danger, especially in the area of Idomeni. We are trying to inform them by providing the right information. We tell refugees the truth: that the borders have closed, we tell them what options they have  what is the asylum procedure," Toskas told ANA-MPA. "Now, some NGOs don't like this situation. What can we do? The NGOs that should stay are the ones that are useful for the refugees and support the country and international agreements best," he added. Toskas, who is in Lesvos to examine the progress made in the building of new infrastructure that will be used to process asylum petitions, also said Greece is discussing with Turkey the technical side of the readmissions. "The way readmissions will take place is being discussed now with the Turkish side and the European Union. We're discussing the technical side, like the start date. Therefore it's an issue that hasn't concluded yet, but will do so in the next few days," the minister explained. Commenting on the sharp drop in refugee flows, Toskas said it should be attributed to Turkey's will to control the situation and not the weather, noting that it is obvious the neighboring country cut flows to abide by the EU-Turkey deal. [02] President Pavlopoulos to visit Israel on Tuesday President of the Hellenic Republic Prokopis Pavlopoulos will carry out an official visit to Israel from Tuesday until March 31, at the invitation of Israeli President Reuven Rivlin. Pavlopoulos will meet the Israeli president on Wednesday morning and then visit the Holocaust History Museum. On Wednesday afternoon, the president will be conferred an honorary doctorate by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and give a speech on "European law and order in the labyrinth of the economic crisis". He will then meet Knesset Speaker Yuli-Yoel Edelstein and attend an official dinner given in his honour by Israel's president. On Thursday, President Pavlopoulos will visit the Jerusalem Patriarchate and meet Patriarch Theophilos III and his visit will conclude with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. [03] Bells in Berlin, Mytilene will chime in unison on Tuesday, to raise awareness of refugee crisis Bells in Berlin and the town of Mytilene on Lesvos will ring in synchronisation on Tuesday, as part of a Greek-German collaborative art project to raise awareness about the refugee crisis. At noon on Tuesday, the bell at Agios Athanassios Cathedral in Mytilene and the Freedom Bell in the Tower of Schoneberg Town Hall will toll at the same time, forming a "notional connection" in a call for sensitisation and action. The parallel tolling of the bells aims to unite two landmark locations in the refugee crisis: the island of Lesvos, whose coasts symbolise the passage into Europe, and the city of Berlin as the destination of the refugees' odyssey. The sound of the two bells as the toll will be mixed and broadcast via the internet. Behind the symbolic action are Greek artist and activist Varvara Papadopoulou and the German artistic platform "Neue Berliner Raume", working with the Mytilene church and the Schoneberg Town Hall. Papadopoulou, who is a front-line volunteer in the refugee crisis herself, noted that art "must be a punch in the stomach" and that most artists had a "comfortable" relation with the crisis. "When you have 5,000 people in a public space, such as Piraeus port, and hundreds of refugees are arriving by boat so that you have to give priority to women and children because there aren't enough tents for anyone, then you have a state of war and in this state, artists must be on the front line," she said. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
Since some of Trumps delegates will in fact be party insiders chosen at state conventions, if this happens Trump could lose the nomination before the convention starts. Like nuclear weapons though, the consequences of this tactic are so disastrous that they are unlikely to be used.

There is much speculation lately of a possible brokered GOP convention in Cleveland. Donald Trump only has around 739 delegates lined up and may not be able to reach the 1237 necessary for victory on the first ballot. There is even the most heinous of rumors of a plot that insider establishment types are stacking the decks of the convention Rules Committee which could change the rules on delegates being bound to their candidate on the first ballot if Trump does reach the 1237 delegate threshold.

So, lets assume Donald Trump wins the nomination and then reshapes the electoral map and wins enough Rust Belt states to win the Presidency. Now what? He would certainly use executive orders where legally applicable to reverse much of the damage done by President Obama through his use of executive orders.

He could change some of our diplomatic stances towards other countries and perhaps usher in a new paradigm in foreign affairs that might actually give peace a chance in the Middle East and elsewhere. He certainly would negotiate better trade deals with Mexico and other East Asian states. Trump would need the Congress though to fundamentally change the trajectory this country is on. But even passing laws with an agreeable Congress would not make the changes permanent.

So, a President Trump should look to reinvigorate something akin to the Bricker Amendment of the early 1950s. It would be very difficult to do and would require Presidential leadership even though the President is not involved in the Amendment process. This would be a permanent change and would give more power to Congress and tilt the balance away from the executive in the long run. It certainly would be a change from the recent giveaways by Congress on fast-track trade promotion authority. The American people could be first again.

For those of you unfamiliar, John Bricker was a three term Governor of the state of Ohio and also served as its junior Senator in the late 40s and early 50s along with Robert Taft. Bricker also ran as the Vice-Presidential candidate with Thomas Dewey in the 1944 Presidential race. His views were pretty conservative and today he would be most likely labeled a reactionary in the GOP. Bricker was an outspoken opponent of the New Deal and its effects on individual freedom.

But Bricker, like many other Senators of the time, was also against the internationalism that had infiltrated our foreign policy establishment since the Spanish-American War. This interventionist strain was even more rampant after World War II. The United States was now embroiled in nation-building overseas and had signed treaties ranging from membership in the United Nations to NATO and had given economic assistance to rebuilding countries with the Marshall Plan. And by this time it had also lost over 50,000 men in the disastrous Korean War.

Some of this interventionism may have been necessary to counter the Communist threat. But it was feared by some that Article VI or the Supremacy clause of the Constitution which made any treaties that were signed superior to the laws of the federal government and the states would undermine and sacrifice the rights and liberties of individual Americans. In other words, many Americans feared what we now know as globalism.

In 1952 and then again in 1953, a motley coalition of Senators came together under Brickers leadership to offer a Constitutional Amendment which would have effectively ended that aprt of the Supremacy Clause guaranteeing our individual and state rights and federal laws would not be negated by new trade agreements, treaties or executive agreements with foreign powers. There were several versions of this Amendment over the course of two years. Some Senators from the South like Harry Byrd of Virginia and Allen Ellender of Louisiana assisted Bricker largely out of concerns that UN charters would undermine the segregationist policies of the South. Midwestern Senators like William Jenner and Joe McCarthy feared Gramscian designs to undermine the United States from within. Everett Dirksen of Illinois, a moderate, also supported the Amendment.

Ultimately the Amendment failed twice in the Senate, once by only one vote (60-31). President Eisenhower and Majority Leader Lyndon Johnson had to pull out all the stops. Johnson, who actually voted for the Amendment himself, had the ill Senator Kilgore of West Virginia found and brought to the floor for Vote 31 against it killing it. How cynical!

Brickers attempts here are indicative of the more nationalist America-First strain of conservatism that had begun with Charles Lindbergh in the 1930s. It was and still is not so much a reaction to American decline but rather a reaction to the something that is so hideous and unwelcome by a majority of Americans  the erasure of national boundaries and the loss of American sovereignty.

Donald Trump has once again tapped in to this vein that has never really left our country. It may have expressed itself in different ways and through both parties at times, but it is still there. The country wants trade, but it wants fair trade. The country does not want to return to isolationism, but it wants a less aggressive foreign policy. It does not want to bear the burden of policing the world. It wants a government and a President that looks out for the people first.

The period of the American Caesar must end. The quest to conquer the world must end. Its time to bring back the Bricker Amendment and return the government to the people.
CHICAGO - Tammy Duckworth's campaign released a video Monday that gives a taste of how Democrats will use Republican candidate Donald Trump's own words to discourage support for Republicans down the ballot leading up to the November election.

In this case, incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Mark Kirk's voiced support for Trump is being thrown back at him. D.C. insiders see Kirk as one of the most vulnerable incumbents, and electing Democrat Tammy Duckworth would erode the Republicans' slim majority in the U.S. Senate.
Last week, nearly 80 percent of Chicago Teachers Union delegates voted to approved the Day of Action that aims to put pressure on state lawmakers to break a state budget stalemate that has delayed funding for city school kids and could lead to massive CPS cuts, layoffs and school closings.

Another teacher  a South Side grade school instructor who also spoke on the condition of anonymity because she feared retribution  said she is morally and ethically against the walkout and her loyalty to her students trumps her loyalty to the CTU.

"How do I get out of being part of this debacle?" is a question being asked in teacher lounges at schools across the city," the grade school teacher said.
What these vanity voters fail to understand is that the weight of their single vote when millions are cast is so much less than their potential influence on other contests down the ballot that are less glamorous than leader of the free world. Relatively, few people vote in primaries for the state legislature or county and local office compared to the national contest and yet that very fact makes their votes more important at the lesser level.

There are people I call "vanity voters" who only move themselves to action every four years during a campaign for president. They have a very high regard for their own opinions and only the office of president is important enough to engage their attention.

Individual votes count the most when only a small number will decide the contest. I have known candidates who won primary races for the state legislature by only ten votes and then went on to easily win a general election because the map was drawn to favor their party, so that nomination was tantamount to election.

The same effect is even more true in races for local school boards where the stakes for children are very high and should command the attention of parents who say they care about the quality of local education. But the irony is that many vanity voters cannot be bothered to pay close attention to a school board vacancy because they think the office is not important enough.

As a result, a conservative voter who thinks he or she is very well informed on national and international affairs nevertheless cannot find the time to do homework on who is running for school board or which judges who are running for retention should not be retained. Worse, these voters too often might blindly follow the sample ballot of some interest group that has an agenda counter to conservative principles just because they don't know any better.

Most vanity voters are not strategic voters. They vote when they are interested and do not vote when they are not interested. That is a shame because they could be so much more influential in a race for local office. Most schools in Illinois and nationwide do a terrible job of teaching basic civics. It might be fun for a school to run a mock election for president when that office is all in the news.

But I think a mock election for village president would to a lot more to teach students about how important local offices really are and how important a single vote can be.
The National Endowment for the Humanities announced this years recipients of $21.1 million in federally-funded grants earlier this month.

A chunk of the agencys taxpayer cash will go toward a study of the recent history of French lesbian activism, reports The Washington Free Beacon.

University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign history and womens studies professor Tamara Chaplin will conduct the groundbreaking research into Gallic tomboy agitators. Shes calling it Postwar French Media, and the Struggle for Gay Rights, a book-length study of the history of French lesbian activism since World War II.

For the project, Chaplin will receive a summer stipend of $6,000.

More HERE
Unveiled at the Dubai International Motor Show last year, Hyundai will be bringing the sixth-generation Elantra on Indian shores this year.

The upcoming Hyundai Elantra will be competing against the upcoming 2017 Toyota Corolla Altis, Chevrolet Cruze and Skoda Octavia in the market.

By India Today Web Desk: Hyundai India will be launching the all new version of the Elantra this year, reports say.

Unveiled at the Dubai International Motor Show last year, Hyundai will be bringing the sixth-generation Elantra on Indian shores which has caught everyone's fancy since its launch in 2011.

ALSO READ: Hyundai to recall 597 vehicles over faulty wipers in China

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Design:

The India-bound Hyundai Elantra will be based on the Fluidic 2.0 design philosophy with sharp and aggressive exterior design.

The front of the Elantra will come with a hexagonal grille and projector headlamps with integrated DRLs.

The rear of the Elantra will have a two piece taillight along with the sloping roofline.

Engine:

ALSO READ: Hyundai Creta joins our long term fleet

The sixth generation Hyundai Elantra will most likely come with two petrol engine options and one diesel engine- 1.6L GDi petrol engine or a 2.0L MPi petrol engine and a 1.6L VGT CRDi diesel engine.

Moreover, the petrol engine will come mated to both six-speed manual and automatic gearbox, while the diesel engine will come mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Dimensions:

The 2016 Hyundai Elantra will come with a wheelbase of 2700mm and will be 4550mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1470mm in height.



ALSO READ: Great India Drive in a Hyundai Creta- Part 2

Competition:

The upcoming Hyundai Elantra will be competing against the upcoming 2017 Toyota Corolla Altis, Chevrolet Cruze and Skoda Octavia in the market.

Price:

We expect the upcoming Hyundai Elantra to come with a price tag of Rs 14 lakh to Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi).

Watch this space for more information on Hyundai Elantra.

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The new Datsun hatchback will be based on the Datsun GoCross concept with the engine based on Renault Kwid.

We expect the new Datsun hatchback to come with a price tag of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh (ex showroom, New Delhi). (Picture for representational purpose only)

By India Today Web Desk: Datsun India will be unveiling their new product for India on April 14, reports say. Datsun will be showcasing a hatchback for the Indian market and will be based on the Renault Kwid. Moreover, it will also be the global unveil of the new hatchback.

ALSO READ: Nissan to display Datsun Concept; driver-less model at Auto Expo 2016

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Now reports suggest the new Datsun hatchback will be based on the Datsun GoCross concept with the engine based on the same platform as Renault Kwid.

The new Datsun hatchback will most likely come powered with a 799cc, 3-cylinder, DOHC petrol engine churning out maximum power output of 54bhp and maximum torque of 72Nm, mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

We expect the new Datsun hatchback to come with a price tag of Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh (ex showroom, New Delhi)

ALSO READ: Datsun launches GO NXT with new features for Rs 3.23 lakh

Watch this space for more information on the new Datsun hatchback.

--- ENDS ---
As the Uttarakhand High Court began hearing a petition filed by the Congress against the imposition of the President's Rule on Sunday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley defended the Centre's decision, claiming there was a "complete breakdown of the Constitutional machinery" in the state.

By India Today Web Desk: As the Uttarakhand High Court began hearing a petition filed by the Congress against the imposition of the President's Rule on Sunday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley defended the Centre's decision, claiming there was a "complete breakdown of the Constitutional machinery" in the state.

A day before Chief Minister Harish Rawat was asked by the Governor to prove his majority on the floor of the Assembly, the Union Cabinet recommended the imposition of President's Rule. With this, the state Assembly was kept in suspended animation after President Pranab Mukherjee signed a proclamation under Article 356.

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Furious Congress leaders called the decision a "murder of democracy" and lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the move was a "naked negation of the Constitutional norms".

Jaitley, however, defended the decision in a blog titled 'A State Without A Budget' in which he claimed that the Rawat government in Uttarakhand had failed in getting the state Budget passed.

"There are strong facts to suggest that the Appropriation Bill was actually defeated. As a consequence, the Government had to resign," the Finance Minister wrote, accusing the Speaker of passing a failed legislation.

"This is an unprecedented case of a Speaker declaring a failed Appropriation Bill as passed and then failing to certify falsehood. This leaves the State without any approved financial expenditure with effect from 1st April 2016. What better evidence do we need of a breakdown of Constitution?" Jaitley wrote.



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Congress moves High Court against President's Rule in Uttarakhand



Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat requests Governor KK Paul to allow them to prove majority

Sting operation CD against Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat genuine, says reportPresident's Rule imposed in Uttarakhand







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By PTI: From Anisur Rahman Dhaka, Mar 28 (PTI) A top Bangladeshi court today rejected a 28-year-old petition seeking removal of Islam as the state religion of the Muslim-majority nation, a provision added in the constitution by a former military dictator in 1988.

"The petitioners do not have the locus standi (the right to appear in a court with the petition)," ruled a special bench of Justice Naima Haider, Justice Quazi Reza-Ul Hoque, and Justice Ashraful Kamal.

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The bench rejected the petition filed by 15 distinguished Bangladeshis immediately after Islam was declared as the state religion in 1988 by then military-ruler General H M Ershad under the Eighth Amendment Bill.

Todays ruling comes nearly a month after Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha constituted the three-member bench as the legal initiative to drop Islam as Bangladeshs state religion was revived in a belated but routine course.

Ten of the 15 petitioners including a former chief justice and several secular academics and writers died since they filed the petition forming a grouping called "committee to oppose autocracy and religious communalism".

Court officials said the bench was expected to come up with the detailed verdict in writing later but in its brief judgement the bench rejected the writ saying the petitioners did not have the locus standi since they had filed it as an organisation and not as individuals to justify their personal grievances against the provision.

On March 1 the bench had asked the grouping to explain if they had the right to challenge the legality of Article 2A of the Constitution that declares Islam as the state religion.

Several legal experts said the writ was filed as a public interest litigation case, which requires individuals instead of organisations to seek court ruling to address their personal grievances.

Todays ruling came as the countrys largest Islamist party - Jamaat-e-Islami - called a nationwide strike to protest the legal move. Over 90 per cent of the population is Muslim, with Hindus and Buddhists the main minorities.

Several thousand ultra right Muslims staged a protest on Friday here to denounce the writ. Qawmi madrasa-based group Hifazat-e-Islam has been threatening to bring Bangladesh to its knees if the court repealed Islam as the state religion.

After the ruling, one of the petitioners Subrata Chowdhury said they were "very disappointed" by the High Court order and would think about appealing against the verdict before the Supreme Court.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasinas ruling Awami League party in 2011 amended the constitution with its overwhelming majority in parliament bringing back "secularism" as a pillar of the constitution, but retained Islam as the state religion.

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After its independence, Bangladesh adopted "secularism" as one of the four state policies in the constitution. But the subsequent military ruler Ziaur Rahman scraped the provision replacing it with the principle of "absolute faith in one Allah" while his successor Ershad incorporated an additional provision declaring Islam as the state religion. PTI AR SAI ZH

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By PTI: Patna, Mar 27 (PTI) Bihar BJP today asked its workers and leaders to take the salient features of union budget and central government schemes to the people to put pressure on the state government for their implementation.

"Among the several issues that the state executive committee discussed at its two day meeting, the focus was on the pro-poor, pro-village, pro-farmer union budget of 2016-17 and also that of central government schemes. We need to take them to the people so that they can take benefits of those schemes," party spokesman Vinod Narayan Jha told PTI.

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Party workers and leaders would propagate the schemes and provisions of union budget in order to put pressure on the state government for their implementation, he said.

The political resolution, moved by Nand Kishore Yadav, was passed while resolution on agriculture would be moved by Prem Kumar tomorrow.

In its political resolution, the party, which suffered a humiliating defeat at the hands of JD(U)-RJD-Congress alliance, termed it as unnatural and opportunist alliance and expressed concern and displeasure that it has failed to live up to the expectations of the people.

Deteriorating law and order situation, high level of corruption and inefficient government have made the people feel insecure within four months of the government formation, the resolution said adding that repeated political killings has put a stamp of seal that this is Jungle Raaj II.

It thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a special package of Rs 1.65 lakh crore besides Rs 40,000 crore would be pumped in the state through foreign direct investment in two rail projects at Marhaura and Madhepura.

It alleged tat the grand secular alliance government is inefficient, directionless and full of inner contradictions and is not able to carry out development, generate employment.

The partys national general secretary and Bihar in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, Bihar BJP chief Mangal Pandey, Union Ministers Radha Mohan Singh, Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Giriraj Singh, Leader of Opposition in Council Sushil Kumar Modi, Leader of Opposition in Assembly Prem Kumar, and others attended the two-day meeting that began today. PTI AR NN DBS SNP

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By PTI: Raipur, Mar 28 (PTI) Arrest of two journalists by police in the insurgency-hit Bastar region rocked the proceedings of Chhattisgarh Assembly today with the main opposition Congress alleging that the scribes are being falsely implicated for writing against government and police, a charge denied by the government.

The House was adjourned twice on the issue following a ruckus created by the Congress members who expressed dissatisfaction over governments reply on the issue.

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Senior Congress MLA andpartys state unit president Bhupesh Baghel raised the issue after Question Hour and sought a discussion on the alleged harassment of journalists by police in Bastar by moving an adjournment motion notice in the House.

He was supported by 35 legislators of his party on the issue.

Subsequently, Speaker Gaurishankar Agrawal informed that 36 Congress MLAs have submitted the adjournment motion notice on the issue and read it out.

Reading out the notice, Speaker said, "Under the democratic system of the country, it is the fundamental right of the citizens to express their opinion freely but police are dictating in the state.

"The fourth pillar of democracy ? Press and journalists are being deliberately targeted under a conspiracy. Journalists are being harassed and implicated in false cases in Bastar region," he said quoting the notice.

As per the notice, "On March 21, a Dantewada-based scribe, Prabhat Singh was picked up by police clad in civil clothes in evening and later taken to Parpa police station where he was thrashed. He was booked under section 66, 67 and 67 (A) of the Information Technology Act".

"In this line, another journalist of Dantewada, Deepak Jaiswal was arrested by Geedam police. Notably, Jaiswal had exposed cheating during an examination in Geedam high school.

"Later the examination centre head lodged a case against Jaiswal but he was arrested suddenly after several months of the case registered against him which clearly indicates that it was preplanned action against him," the notice stated.

The notice stated that National Human Rights Commission has sought a reply from the state government over the arrest ofSingh.

"Similarly on February 7, a so-called social organisation had pelted stones at the house of journalist Malini Subramaniam in Mahaveer Nagar of Jagdalpur branding her as a naxal.

"Despite 24 hours of the incident, the report was not lodged by the police," it added.

However, the government dismissed the Congress charge. (More) PTI TKP NSK ANP RDS

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Top Congress leaders and lawyers Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal today moved the High Court in Nainital against the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand.

By India Today Web Desk: Top Congress leaders and lawyers Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal today moved the High Court in Nainital against the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand.

A day after President's Rule was imposed in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Harish Rawat is likely to meet Governor KK Paul today.

Senior party leader Kapil Sibal said President's Rule was imposed a day before the floor test in the Uttarakhand Assembly as the Centre knew that Chief Minister Harish Rawat would be able to prove his majority.

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"We will approach the courts. We will file a petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule in the state and demand its revocation," he said.

"We will explain the law to them in court. We will show the court that the people in the central government are the ones responsible for destabilising every state which is under Congress rule because their policy is to have 'Congress mukt Bharat'.

"I am shocked that any government which believes in democracy and believes in the Constitution would seek to wipe off the legacy of a party," Sibal said, alleging that BJP is a "past master in the art of horse-trading".

The senior lawyer, who has been representing the party in Supreme Court in the Arunachal Pradesh case, added that he will also raise the issue there and tell the court that the Centre will "replicate" the model in other states as well.

Capping a nine-day high-voltage political drama, the Centre on Sunday brought Uttarakhand under President's rule citing a Constitutional breakdown in the state.

President Pranab Mukherjee signed the proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution dismissing the Congress government headed by Harish Rawat and placing the Assembly under suspended animation on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet.

Also Read

Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat requests Governor KK Paul to allow them to prove majority

Sting operation CD against Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat genuine, says reportPresident's Rule imposed in Uttarakhand







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Twenty six-year-old Priyanka has blamed her husband of torturing her and objecting to her lifestyle in her suicide note which has been accessed by Mail Today.

By Ankur Sharma: It was her love for Delhi's nightlife that soured relations between model Priyanka Kapoor and her husband. Twenty six-year-old Priyanka has blamed her husband of torturing her and objecting to her lifestyle in her suicide note which has been accessed by Mail Today.

Priyanka, who ran an event management company, was found hanging from a ceiling fan at house number A-46 in Defence Colony in the wee hours on Saturday. The room was locked from inside. Her husband, a well-known south Delhi-based businessman, has been arrested for allegedly harassing and beating his wife, which forced her to commit suicide.

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According to a senior police official, Priyanka's family has alleged that 38-year-old accused Nitin Chawla used to beat her and harass her for dowry. Cops claim that Nitin had asked Priyanka to leave his house just before she committed suicide.

"Priyanka wrote in her suicide note: 'Nitin wanted me to leave his house, so I am leaving the world'. She also wrote that Nitin used to hit her over petty issues. He also stopped her from going to pubs and bars several times. When Nitin's 10-year-old son from his earlier marriage came home, Nitin had an argument with Priyanka. He asked her to leave the house," the senior official told Mail Today.

Police found two copies of a suicide note in the house believed to have been written by Priyanka before her death. One was lying on her table and the second copy was in her bag. In the note, Priyanka said she got married to Nitin out of desperation. Priyanka's body was discovered after she did not answer her phone on the day before Holi. Her mother came to her house to check on her.

"The police got a call from Priyanka's family member and reached the spot. Priyanka's mother and husband were standing outside the room which was locked from inside. Police broke open the door in their presence with members of the fire brigade. Priyanka was found hanging from the ceiling fan. She was shifted to AIIMS, where the doctor declared her brought dead," a Delhi police official said.

On the basis of a statement by Dimpi Kapoor, sister of the deceased, a case has been registered under IPC sections 498A, 304B, 34. "In her statement, Dimpi alleged that her sister's husband used to torture, beat up and harass her for dowry. Similar allegations were also there in the suicide notes recovered from the spot. Nitin Chawla was arrested," police said.

Nitin had divorced his first wife, with whom he has a son (10) and a daughter (8), in December last year, police said. After divorce, Nitin got the custody of his son, which became a matter of dispute between him and Priyanka, the official said. Mail Today had tried to contact Nitin's family for a version, but they didn't reply.

Also Read

Model found dead under mysterious circumstances in Delhi's Defence Colony area

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It cannot be the world's oldest living city, and a magnet for communities as diverse as the Punjabi Khatris, Bengalis and Gujaratis, and not have anything to offer beyond its also-famous pedas and kachoris.

By Sourish Bhattacharyya: The culinary wealth of Benaras, sadly, has been clouded by the hyped-up presence of its bhang laced thandai in the popular imagination. It cannot be the world's oldest living city, and a magnet for communities as diverse as the Punjabi Khatris, Bengalis and Gujaratis, and not have anything to offer beyond its also-famous pedas and kachoris.

The bounteous table of the city has found an articulate yet soft-spoken ambassador in Sangeeta Khanna, who has been meticulously recording recipes and slices of the city's culinary past in her well researched blog, Benaras Ka Khana. These recipes drew the attention of The Oberoi Gurgaon's outgoing executive chef, Ravitej Nath, who's been working hard to document heritage recipes from around the country, and he teamed up with Khanna (and his successor, Manish Sharma) to make them come alive at threesixtyone, the all-day restaurant at the showpiece hotel.

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Also read: Paris: Finding vegetarian haute cuisine in a non-vegetarian paradise

Their combined effort resulted in a short but memorable Benarasi food festival that ended on Friday but is deserving of an encore for the way it elevated no-frills, home-style cooking into the realms of gastronomy. For once, I chose to shy away from the nonvegetarian dishes on the menu (yes, the residents of Benaras do have a tradition of going out on picnics and tucking into delicacies such as the mutton kaliya cooked in a mustard gravy inside an earthen pot). Instead, I stuck to the 37-course vegetarian tasting menu, which started with panchamrit (the holy quintet of milk, yogurt, honey, Ganga water and tulsi leaves - at the hotel, bottled water filled in for that fistful of the holy river) and ended with the laal peda of Sri Ram Bhandar, the oldest sweet shop of Benaras that became famous with the tiranga (tricolour) barfi it invented as an expression of the nationalist spirit during the Quit India Movement, and the desi ghee-laden coarse chickpea flour (besan) laddoos of the Sankat Mochan temple. The laddoos had been sent as a goodwill gesture by the Sankat Mochan Fondation, which has been dedicated since 1982 to the cleaning up of the Ganga.

What struck me about the grand tasting menu was the way it elevated everyday ingredients. From the kaddu (pumpkin) subzi, which tasted heavenly with pooris, to the matar ka nimona (crushed green peas cooked with coriander and ginger), saagpaita (tempered moong dal cooked with baby spinach) and my personal favourite, turai ki pyaaz wali subzi (sponge gourd cooked with caramelised onions), each one of the preparations had a distinctive identity of its own because of the treatment given and masalas used. With so much diversity in our kitchens, why do restaurants and caterers not look beyond the Holy Trinity of paneer-aloo-gobhi for their vegetarian menu? Like all Indian traditions of cooking, the Benaras kitchen is driven by seasonal ingredients and it extracts the best out of each. This ability to unobtrusively turn around commonplace ingredients is best expressed in a dish as uncomplicated as the aloo chokha (steamed and handcrushed potatoes doused with warm mustard oil and given texture with chopped onions, green chillies, garlic and ginger). The flavour of mustard oil, the traditional cooking medium in Benaras, transforms the profile of the roughly mashed potatoes. And it's a real treat to dig aloo chokha with litti (small, thick round breads, crusty outside and soft within) soaked in desi ghee.

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The tasting menu covered the whole nine yards - from khus sherbet made with vetiver roots and not some flavoured sugar syrup to tamatar ki chaat, which gained currency some 25 years ago, after tomatoes started becoming available throughout the year - but the story of Benaras ka khana cannot be complete without malaiyo. Benarasis insist that Delhi's daulat ki chaat stands nowhere in comparison to their malaiyo, a dessert made with the airy foam of hand-churned unpasteurised milk spiked with cardamom, sliver of pistachio and saffron. The Oberoi Gurgaon had to get two malaiyo specialists to make it - that was easy, but the two Benarasi gents rejected one sample of milk after the other because the fat content wasn't right.

After much scouting around, the hotel's purchase department located a milk-seller with just the right stuff - to get the best malaiyo, which can only be made in the months between Diwali and Holi, the milk has got to have 8-9 per cent of fat! Forget the fat, just go for the experience. You're going to ask for more.

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By PTI: New Delhi, Mar 28 (PTI) As it tightens the noose on PACL for refunding over Rs 49,000 crore raised through illegal money pooling activities, Sebi has cautioned investors against yielding "to any pressure" from the group or its agents for converting existing schemes.

Seen as one of the biggest ponzi schemes in the country, the market watchdog has set up a high level committee, following an order by the Supreme Court, to ensure that refunds in the PACL case are made to genuine investors.

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The panel, chaired by former Chief Justice of India R M Lodha, is in the process of collecting documents of PACL from the CBI to initiate the process of disposing of properties to refund money to investors after verifying their genuineness.

"Claims shall be invited from the customers of PACL for the purpose of refund after the properties of PACL are disposed of and sufficient amount is available. The committee will invite customers to apply for return," the regulator noted.

Against this backdrop, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has advised investors concerned to "hold onto the original documents and to submit the same for refund upon asked for".

"It is advised not to yield to any pressure from any person, including PACL or their agents, for converting or switching over existing investments to any of their other schemes, if any," the regulator said in a detailed set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the PACL matter.

Stating that the panel been entrusted by a Supreme Court order to make refunds to genuine investors after selling PACL properties, Sebi has also cautioned people against making any payment or new investment towards PACL.

PACL, which had raised money from public in the name of agriculture and real estate businesses, was found by Sebi to have collected over Rs 49,100 crore through illegal collective investment schemes over a period of 18 years.

Sebi has already directed refund of the money, along with applicable returns and interest payouts, while the regulator has also ordered attachment of the assets of this Pearl Group firm and its top executives.

The total money due to be returned by PACL and another group firm PGFL to their over five crore investors amounts to over Rs 60,000 crore -- making it the biggest ever case of illicit mobilisation of funds from the public. PTI SP RAM SBT SA

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A gang of unidentified armed gunmen today attacked Pakistan's Karachi Press Club, damaging the historic property and thrashing staffers of a private news channel.

By Press Trust of India: A gang of unidentified armed gunmen today attacked Pakistan's Karachi Press Club, damaging the historic property and thrashing staffers of a private news channel.

According to the senior police officer officer Fazil Jamali some armed men who could not be identified attacked the press club premises in the evening and caused damage to the property and vehicles parked there.

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"All the members had to rush out for safety as these armed men broke windows and furniture and spread terror," Jamali said.

The armed men also grabbed cameras from five vans parked near the club and attacked the staff of one of the private news channels who were standing near their van.

Sindh Home Minister Anwar Siyal has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter by senior police officials. "The armed men fled before the arrival of the police and rangers," a club member said.

The attack came when supporters and activists of different religious groups were observing Chehlum of Mumtaz Qadri, assassin of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was executed earlier this month.

Qadri who was on VIP security duty for the late governor had pumped dozens of bullets into Taseer in Islamabad for allegedly talking about reviewing the blasphemy law.

The religious groups were complaining about a media blackout on the coverage of their activities about Qadri. Karachi Press Club was the first press club established in Pakistan's Karachi city. Its first election was held in 1958.

ALSO READ:

Pakistan hangs Salman Taseer's assassin Mumtaz Qadri





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The students and faculty members were arrested on March 22 during a police crackdown on those protesting the return of Professor Appa Rao as the Vice-Chancellor after a two-month leave.

By India Today Web Desk: All the 25 arrested students and two faculty members of the Hyderabad University got were granted bail by the Miyapur judicial magistrate today. The court pronounced its orders on their bail petitions after the public prosecutor did not file a counter to their pleas.

The students and faculty members were arrested on March 22 during a police crackdown on those protesting the return of Professor Appa Rao as the Vice-Chancellor after a two-month leave.

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A section of students want the sacking and arrest of Rao, holding him responsible for the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula earlier this year.

The protest had turned the university into a veritable war zone with accusations of students beaten by the police. In an attempt to quell the protest, the university authorities on March 23 closed the mess, cut drinking water supply and other amenities.

Policemen, who cracked down on students protesting at University of Hyderabad, threatened to rape the women students, revealed an independent fact finding team.

The team, which went into March 22 incidents on the campus, found that there was widespread assault of women students. "Abusive language and threats to rape the women students were heard from police," said the interim report by the panel comprising senior human rights activists, academicians and lawyers.

The team, which met students, faculty members, police and Telangana home minister, also claimed that targeted statements towards minority students and describing them as "terrorists" were also heard.

Also Read:

Hyderabad University V-C to angry parents: Varsity always committed to freedom of speech

Over "emergency like situation'' in Hyderabad University, NHRC sends notice to Education Ministry



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What makes this delightful weave the toast of catwalks, both at home and in fashion capitals across the world.

In India, the handloom sector represents the rich diversity of the country's 2,000-year-old textile tradition. However, with the advent of factory produced fabrics, the handloom sector has taken a beating. It made me realise that for the traditional natural textiles industry to survive and retain its supremacy in urban markets, the key was to contemporise textiles while, at the same time, remaining true to tradition.

The many faces of ikkat: Right from the time I launched my label in 1987, I have worked only with natural fibres that are indigenous in ethos and execution. My fabric of choice has never been synthetic yarn, but cotton, silk, wool, and bamboo--all of which are found in nature. This gravitation towards traditional, organic textiles is a reflection of my personal sensibility, and over the years, I have painstakingly built up a reputation as a craft and textile revivalist. This is evident from my many partnerships with the Government of India's Ministry of Textiles.

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I have not restricted myself to India textiles alone. In Bangladesh, I collaborated with BRAC (one of the largest NGOs in the world), to revive Nakshi Kantha embroidery, and also reinterpreted the legendary Dhaka muslin, a handmade textile which had almost disappeared from the textiles map.

In the last decade or so, I have been immersed in innovating with ikkat--an ancient resist-dyeing technique used to pattern textiles--that is common to several regions Ikkat has a certain boldness of sweep in both its design and colour, which is vibrant and sophisticated. Its characteristic blurriness can be used to create designs that are sinuous and flowy.

The two most common ikkat weaves are the warp (lengthwise yarn) and the weft (crosswise yarn) styles, where either the warp or the weft threads are dyed before weaving to then produce patterns on the loom. In order to create a pattern, the dyed yarn is first set into a frame and the coloured threads are bunched up and tied together. The resultant "knot units" are then formed into a pattern, and all the knots opened before the actual weaving process begins.

Picture courtesy: Dhruv Jain

The weft ikkat is more laborious to weave than the waft one and is therefore time-intensive. The third, and most prized weave, is the double ikkat which is the most difficult to render as it requires that both the warp and weft are resist dyed.

This weave is fabricated only in India, Japan, Guatemala, and Indonesia. In fact, the double ikkat of Patan in Gujarat (known as Patola) is extremely intricate to fashion, and it can take traditional weavers years to perfect the art. While it is not known where ikkat originated, it is generally accepted that it probably originated in different regions independently, and is acknowledged to be among the most ancient of weaving styles. In India, the three states renowned for its ikkat are Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat.

The designs and weaving styles, including the kind of looms used, vary from region to region. In Andhra Pradesh, for example, ikkat is made on pit looms, and semi-circular frames are used in the preparation of warp and weft. The designs are heavily skewed towards geometrical patterns.

In Odisha, on the other hand, ikkat is inspired by plants, flowers, animals and temple motifs. In Thailand, Buddhist philosophy permeates the designs. However, the 'blurriness' of the weave is the single defining feature in all the regions because of the extremely tough, resist-dyeing technique that characterises this textile.

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Significant international names like Oscar de la Renta, Missoni, Etro, John Galliano, Dries Van Noten, Rifat Ozbek and Jhane Barnes have been enthused by the craft and the design possibilities that ikkat offers and have time and again showcased the patterns in their collections. The Central Asian ikkat collection displayed at the Textile Museum in Washington D.C. in 2015 stirred many high fashion brands and garnered a great deal of interest. Ikkat has a certain boldness of sweep in both its design and colour, which is wonderfully vibrant and sophisticated.

Its characteristic blurriness can be used to great effect to create designs that are sinuous and flowy. All of this gels well in the contemporary world as there is a wealth of design options to choose from, ranging from bold and youthful geometricals to the more traditional temple and mandala motifs.

Reinventing the weave: Designer Oscar De La Renta used ikkat in his2005 spring runway collection. Of course, as with everything else, to ensure interest in textiles, it is important to keep innovating and creating to suit changing sensibilities and needs. To breathe freshness into traditional motifs, over the years I have experimented with mixing two different ikkat weaves to produce new weaves that are contemporary, but which retain the uniqueness of the original.

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My Spring/Summer 2016 collection showcases a blend of motifs and weaves from Uzbekistan and India, which I have designed and had woven by master craftsmen in India.

Uzbek ikkat leans towards abstract flower shapes and geometrical patterns, and are generally in a rich colour tapestry of reds, golds, purples, and greens, all of which reflect the preference of those who could afford to buy these exquisite creationsthe nobility and rich merchants who wore cotton or silk ikkat robes and short coats. I have blended the weaves from the two cultures to produce a convergence that is harmonious and rich in tradition.

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By PTI: From Shirish B Pradhan

Kathmandu, Mar 28 (PTI) Two foreign nationals, including an Indian woman, have been arrested from a tourist hub in the Nepalese capital for allegedly smuggling drugs worth Rs 54 million in their shampoo bottles.

The two women - who have been identified as Mersi, 41, from Nagaland and Mapathone Masne, 37, of South Africa - were arrested from Thamel by the anti-drug trafficking unit of the Nepal Police, who seized 2.7 kg of cocaine from their possession.

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The duo had hidden the drugs in four shampoo bottles, according to Nepal Police.

They have been involved in the trafficking network extending from New Delhi, Kathmandu and Europe as well as South Africa for a long time, authorities said.

The women were bringing drugs from New Delhi for dispatching to various destinations in Europe including Netherlands via Kathmandu, according to police.

The have been taken into custody. PTI SBP SAI AKJ SAI

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The Haryana cabinet today approved the Jat reservation bill. This comes a day after the Akhil Bhartiya Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti (ABJASS), the body that spearheaded the Jat quota stir in February, today threatened to resume the agitation if its demands are not met by the end of this month.

By India Today Web Desk: The Haryana cabinet today approved the Jat reservation bill. This comes a day after the Akhil Bhartiya Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti (ABJASS), the body that spearheaded the Jat quota stir in February, today threatened to resume the agitation if its demands are not met by the end of this month.

"If Jats are not accorded reservation, the next agitation would be bigger then the previous one. The Jat community is not in the mood to wait more," ABJASS president Yashpal Malik said on Sunday.

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He said a meeting of representatives of the Jat community from 13 states will be held in Delhi on April 3 where an announcement will be made regarding the mode of agitation.

The draft Bill on reservation to Jats and four other castes was cleared at a cabinet meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.



The Bill is likely to be tabled in the ongoing budget session of the state Assembly, which is scheduled to continue till March 31.

The Bill proposes reservation for Jats and four other castes - Jat Sikhs, Rors, Bishnois and Tyagis -- by creating a new classification in the Backward Classes category, sources said.

In February, 30 people had lost their lives during the nine-day violent agitation by Jats demanding 10 per cent quota in government jobs and educational institutions.

Several districts including Rohtak, the epicentre of Jat agitation, Jhajjar, Kaithal, Jind, Sonipat and Bhiwani had witnessed violence.

Jats are also demanding withdrawal of FIRs registered against the protesters, compensation to those killed during the stir and action against BJP MP from Kurukshetra Raj Kumar Saini for his anti-Jat reservation stand.





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Kangana Ranaut, who is on a professional high these days, has again managed to become the talk of the town. The Queen actor has won the National Award for her film Tanu Weds Manu Returns.

By India Today Web Desk: Kangana Ranaut, who is on a professional high these days, has again managed to become the talk of the town. The Queen actor has won the National Award for her film Tanu Weds Manu Returns. The 63rd National Awards for films were announced today (March 28) by the Information and Broadcasting ministry.

ALSO READ: Baahubali is best film, Amitabh, Kangana best actors

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In a statement to India Today, the Krissh 3 actor, who just turned 29 on March 23, said, "It's the best birthday gift I could ever get. I am thrilled and feel blessed. Specially since Mr Bachchan is the best actor with me. Now I am thinking about what to wear for the ceremony."

It's the third time that Kangana has won the national award for her film. She had earlier received the nation award for Fashion and Queen. And the Katti Batti actor was on the way to Manali when she got to know about this. She told Pinkvilla, "I am in Manali, on my way to my Nani's house and Rangoli started getting calls. And we are emotionally paralyzed. My mother started crying on hearing the news. It was unexpected and overwhelming."

Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut is also busy shooting for her upcoming film Rangoon. The film is a love story set during the Second World War and also stars Shahid Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles. Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, Rangoon will release on October 14.

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The death toll in the horrific Taliban suicide bombing at a popular public park where Christians were celebrating Easter in this eastern Pakistani city rose to 72 today.

Pakistani authorities launched a hunt on Monday for militants behind a suicide bomb that killed at least 65 people

By Press Trust of India: The death toll in the horrific Taliban suicide bombing at a popular public park where Christians were celebrating Easter in this eastern Pakistani city rose to 72 today.

A large number of people including Christians were present in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Iqbal Town area here when the blast occurred yesterday, leaving many in a pool of blood.

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"The toll has risen to 72. The rescue operation is continuing," a rescue official of the Punjab Province government told Express News. The park is located in a posh-locality in Lahore, the hometown of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The city is comparatively peaceful in an otherwise violence-wracked Pakistan.

Those killed included women and children. Over 300 people were also injured in the attack and many of them were in a critical condition.The brutal attack by a suicide bomber, believed to be in his 20s, was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.

Several leaders, including Prime Minister Sharif and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chief Imran Khan, have condemned the blast. Christians leaders also strongly condemned the attack. Meanwhile, all schools under the All Pakistan Private Schools Federation were closed today.

Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced three-day mourning after the suicide attack. Army has joined rescue efforts. An emergency has been declared in city hospitals and appeals have been made to people to donate blood.

Eyewitnesses said body parts were scattered all around the park. They said there was no security around the park. The crowd was "unusually large" because of Easter. Following the blast, Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif chaired a high-level meeting in Rawalpindi.

According to the ISPR, the army chief directed the authorities concerned to find the perpetrators of the Lahore blast at the earliest.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday called up his Pakistani counterpart Sharif and offered his "deep condolences" to the victims of the Lahore terror attack.

Also read:



65 killed, 150 injured in blast outside park in Pakistan's Lahore



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The renowned food critic is in Bangladesh to promote a brand of cookies, and has been exploring the city's culinary culture.

By Shreya Goswami: Matt Preston, the renowned food critic and MasterChef Australia judge, has been in Dhaka since Thursday and will be staying this week to promote Rivoli, a brand of cookies which has taken Bangladesh by storm since its recent launch. Made of rich Belgian chocolate, the cookie brand has Preston as its ambassador, who scores the product 10 out of 10.



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Rivoli's 'Meet Matt' contest, which is underway at Dhaka's leading shops this week, has given Preston a chance to visit Bangladesh for the first time.

Last weekend, Preston went around town exploring the food scene and local markets, and was left impressed. Going by his Instagram posts, Preston was interested in everything from new tiny potatoes to crispy bakharkhani.

Preston loved the bakharkhani at Lalbagh Fort, Dhaka. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Tiny potatoes or large hands? Preston in Dhaka's markets. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Preston stunned by the veg spread in Dhaka's markets. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

He spent some time participating in the never-ending debate about who serves the best biryani - a competition that seems to be common amongst Bengalis on either side of the border.

The great biryani question: who serves the best? Preston at the Grand Nawab, Dhaka. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Strawberry 'bortha' in Dhaka. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat Strawberry 'bortha' in Dhaka. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Street food in old Dhaka. 'What should I eat?' Matt Preston asked. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

On his trail through Old Dhaka's Lalbagh Fort, he came across MasterChef Australia fans, and was left amazed and humbled "to think that our little show shot in Melbourne has found a place in so many people's homes".

Jute leaves and red spinach, Preston's choice in Dhaka's markets. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Preston loved the crispy bakharkhani bread in Dhaka's Lalbagh Fort area. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat

Preston with MasterChef Australia fans in Dhaka. Courtesy: Instagram/mattscravat





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By PTI: From M Zulqernain

Lahore, Mar 28 (PTI)The first president of Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) Sardar Sham Singh has died of brain hemorrhage.

The 80-year-old Sham Singh breathed his last yesterday at the Combined Military Hospital here.

"Sham Singh suffered brain hemorrhage last week. He was shifted to theCombined Military Hospital in Lahore where doctors could not save his life," Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) spokesman Amir Hashmi said.

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His last rites were performed at Gurdwara Janamesthan Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak. A large number Sikhs attended the cremation ceremony.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of Sham Singh.

"Sham Singhs services for Sikh community within Pakistan and around the world would be remembered in golden words," the prime minister said in a statement, as he extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

The ETPB which looks after the holy places of minorities in Pakistan, will call a meeting of the PSGPC to choose its new president. PSGPC comes under the ETPB.

"We will call the meeting of PSGPC in a week or so to select new president," Hashmi said.

Sham Singh was elected first president of the PSGPC after it was established by the Pakistan government in 1998. He was re-appointed in 2008.

His appointment was controversial and was initially opposed by the Amritsar-headquartered Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the top body of the Sikhs which used to manage Pakistans Sikh shrines prior to the establishment of PSGPC in 1998.

Born on December 11, 1936 in Kadrabad village of Faisalabad district of Punjab. PTI MZ SUA AKJ SUA

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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators from that country to probe the January terror attack on the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot.

By India Today Web Desk: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators from that country to probe the January terror attack on the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot.

As Aam Aadmi Party lawmakers held banners asking the Pakistani joint investigation team to go back, Kejriwal told reporters that Pakistan had been harbouring terrorism against India and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

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"We were saying ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed?" the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters here. "Prime Minister Modi has surrendered before Pakistan," he added.

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the January 2 terror attack blamed on Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists. The attack left seven Indian security personnel and all the six terrorists dead.

Also Read:

Why Pakistan team probing Pathankot attack is not bad news for India

Pathankot terror attack: 5-member Pakistan probe team arrives in India



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Kickstarting his West Bengal poll campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mounted a blistering attack on Trinamool Congress over corruption charges against it and also on CPI-M and Congress for their alliance in West Bengal but as rivals in poll-bound Kerala.

PM Narendra Modi during his first election campaign in support of BJP candidate for Kharagpur Sadar Constituency, Dilip Ghosh (right), in West Bengal on Sunday.

By Mail Today: Kickstarting his West Bengal poll campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday mounted a blistering attack on Trinamool Congress over corruption charges against it and also on CPI-M and Congress for their alliance in West Bengal but as rivals in poll-bound Kerala.

Observing that no industry was coming up in Bengal in the last five years and that the only one flourishing in it is the bomb making industry, Modi said the only change seen in the last five years in Bengal is in the attitude of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

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"She behaves like a shehanshah (emperor ) these days," he said, as he accused her of failing to bring about any change in the state. Modi while hitting hit out at the ruling TMC on the issue of corruption from Saradha (scam) to Narada (sting operation), alleged that its leaders are reportedly asking when will they get the next instalment of bribe.

"I want to ask the people of Bengal did they vote in favour of corruption? Have the people formed the government for the sake of corruption? First Saradha then Narada (sting operation). The entire (TMC) leadership in front of the camera seen taking bribe, asking when will they get the next instalment," he said.

It was the money of the people, which is being looted, Modi said, adding, "We (BJP government) are also in power in Delhi for nearly two years. Have you ever heard of any scam? We would prefer to starve than loot the money of the masses. The 34-year-long Left regime had destroyed Bengal and the TMC in the last five years have broken the aspirations of the masses and their dreams," he said.

They (TMC) have ruined Bengal, he added, as he sought people's support for BJP for once. "Five years back I had thought that there will be change in Bengal but our aspirations have failed, the Prime Minister said, adding no industry was coming up in Bengal and the only one flourishing in it is the bomb making industry.

"The state government is not taking offence to this (bomb making) industry. You can't win the hearts of the masses by blasts and using goons. The people will give a befitting reply as you have betrayed the masses," Modi said.

Modi while launching a scathing attack on the Left and Congress said they are challenging and insulting the wisdom of Bengalis by coming together in West Bengal but fighting each other in Kerala.

"Congress and Communists have challenged the wisdom of Bengal and Bengalis will not spare anyone who tries so. Communists and Congress are contesting in Kerala and Bengal. While they are fighting and baying for each other in Kerala, they are playing a game behind the curtains in Bengal. In Kerala they do wrestling and in Bengal, they do friendship. This is a challenge to the wisdom of Bengalis.

"Are they not challenging the wisdom of Bengal and insulting that? Is it not an insult of Bengal's self respect? This is an insult of Bengalis. If they had the courage, they should have admitted that they are opportunists and are only hungry for power and have nothing to do with Kerala or Bengal," he said.

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ALSO READ:

TMC hits back at Modi, reminds him of Tehelka expose

Trinamool leader killed in attack in poll bound West Bengal

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By PTI: Islamabad, Mar 28 (PTI) Thousands of supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, who was hanged for killing liberal Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, held the Pakistani capitals high- security red zone under siege today and demanded that the Islamist assassin be declared a "martyr".

About 25,000 protesters yesterday, a month after Qadri was hanged for shooting Taseer, prayed for him in Rawalpindi, and then marched towards Islamabads Red Zone, breaking barriers that had been erected.

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Out of the 25,000, about 3,000 supporters of Qadri continued their sit in outside the Parliament House and other key government installations for a second day today.

Police and Rangers threw tear gas shells on the protesters yesterday in a bid to contain them. At least 42 security officials and 16 citizens were injured in the clashes which followed, Geo News reported.

Police has detained several people for vandalising public property.

Meanwhile, mobile phone services in the capital have been blocked. The government has asked citizens to stay away from the area.

Protest leaders were making speeches on a makeshift stage.

The government yesterday called in the army to control the law and order situation in the capital after some protesters resorted to violence and allegedly damaged public property.

The media bore the brunt of protesters fury as they attacked media persons, injuring some of them and damaging their equipment. The protesters claimed that the media was not covering the event in an objective manner.

The protesters are demanding that the government scrap any plans to amend the blasphemy laws, and execute all those convicted of blasphemy, including Asia Bibi, a female Christian blasphemy convict, the Express News reported.

They have called on the government to declare Qadri a "martyr" and announce a public holiday in his name.

Qadri was hanged last month after which tens of thousands of his Islamist supporters chanting provocative slogans attended his funeral.

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 it. PTI ASK AKJ ASK

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By India Today Web Desk: Homosexuality is widely considered immoral and indecent in Saudi Arabia. The country has strict laws regarding acts of homosexuality and cross-dressing, and punishes such acts with imprisonment, fines, corporal punishments like whipping/flogging, and even capital punishment.

There is zero tolerance for homosexuals, transgenders and in fact, promotion of LGBT rights too does not go well in the Islamic country. A doctor in Saudi Arabia has been arrested for flying the rainbow pride flag above his home in Jeddah.

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The doctor apparently did know what the 'pretty' flag represented. He had bought the flag from an online retailer only because his children found the colours 'pretty'.

Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, the Saudi religious police, arrested the man as he raised the flag on a three-meter pole above his home. He was charged for violating public morals.

The flag has been removed and after an investigation the man was reportedly bailed.

Recently a hashtag was initiated to promote respect for homosexuals in the Arabic speaking world. #RespectGayRights was even trending on Twitter and a lot of tweets came from Saudi Arabia. However, majority of the tweets only gave flak.
Want to travel the world for free? It's not impossible! Read to know how you can do it.

By Samonway Duttagupta: Travel. It all depends on what the word means for you. For some of us, it is just a way to unwind and rejuvenate. For some of us, it is a sojourn that helps us discover and learn more about the world as we know it. And for some, it is a passion -- no matter how cliched that sounds, only those bitten by the travel bug can understand that they can't help but remain ever-hungry to travel to new places all the time.

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Also read: 5 reasons why you should travel solo



But the question is, how does one pursue this passion? There's a popular belief that only those with a lot of money can do it. But that's not entirely true. You can actually travel the world with almost no money. Surprised? Well, it's not impossible. All you need is some courage to leave everything behind and hit the road -- the rest follows. Great travellers belonging to different times have always known this.

Also read: This video shows you how to pack smartly for an overnight trip



I am sure a lot of you are already aware of this. Still, there are a few things that stop you from taking the leap of faith. Meet Tomislav Perko, a travel writer from Croatia, who travelled the world for years with almost no money. Instead, he made money while he was travelling. In a TEDx talk, Perko tells his incredible story and reveals the ways and tricks of how anyone can do it.

Also read: Follow these simple tricks to cure your travel hangover



In this talk, he covers all the main aspects of travel and provides tips on how you can experience each one of them for free. He starts with conveyance, goes on to accommodation, food and then tells you how to earn money while you are travelling.

Also read: This is how you can prepare for a dangerous road trip



After covering the to-dos and tricks, Perko explains how travelling helps you grow as an individual and the valuable life lessons you get from the varied experiences. And he also explains us how to live a life after coming back from such a journey. He gives different options for beating the post-travelling depression. He ends the talk with a powerful message for those who love travelling -- he reiterates the famous quote by Mark Twain: "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."

Here's the video. Watch, share and most importantly, travel!

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The relations between India and Pakistan are on top of the news this week for a number of reasons.

By India Today Web Desk: The relations between India and Pakistan are on top of the news this week for a number of reasons. Firstly, Pakistan claimed that it had caught an Indian spy named Kulbhushan Yadav. While India refutes this, the country hasn't denied that the man is an Indian or a former naval officer. Secondly, after much expectation, a Joint Investigation Team from Pakistan is in Delhi this week to investigate the Pathankot terror attack. Thirdly, the two prime ministers are likely to meet in Washington DC later this week. Lastly, there's a growing acceptance that the two countries are handling their relationship in a more matured way.

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"The timing of revelation of Kulbhushan's arrest in Pakistan is very important," said former Indian ambassador to Pakistan Satyabrata Pal.

"Our side of story is that Kulbhushan was kidnapped somewhere near Afghan-Iran border," said AS Dulat, former chief of India's primary foreign intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing.

Journalist Sidharth Varadarajan, who was a co-panelist with Dulat on India Today's show To The Point, said that it was good that at political level both India and Pakistan governments have been restrained in what they are saying on spying.

"In the past, everyone said there was no conclusive evidence, now Pakistan has evidence," said Ayesha Siddiq, Pakistan's defense analyst.

On his show To The Point, host Karan Thapar discussed with an experts panel the 50-point demand list that the JIT from Pakistan requested from the Indian government.

Timeline on #PakSpyCry

March 21, 2016: Indian 'spy' Kulbhushan Yadav arrested in the Balochistan province

March 24: Balochistan home minister says Yadav held the rank of a commander in Indian Navy

March 25: Pakistan accused India of stoking violence in Balochistan

March 25: India's foreign ministry said Yadav had retired from navy and had no links with the government

March 27: Pakistan government claim to have recovered multiple fake identities of Yadav



What Pakistan's JIT team will do in India:

- Examine witnesses in the Pathankot terror attack

- Collect evidence to produce in Pakistan court

Pakistan's demands:

-Copies of all FIRs registered in Pathankot terror case

-All call details of Punjab officer Salwinder Singh

-Service records of SP Salwinder Singh

-Post-mortem reports of Salwinder Singh's driver

-Border crossing reports of the terrorists

-Access to mobile phones used by the attackers

-Permission to interrogate commander of Pathankot airbase

-CCTV footage from border to airbase

-Access to witnesses in Pathankot terror attack

What India has allowed:

-Witnesses: Gurdaspur SP Salwinder Singh, friend Rajesh Verma and cook

-Witnesses: 17 people injured in the attack

-Details of 4 terrorists to be shared

-No access to security personnel from NSG, BSF

-Pakistan JIT to be taken to where terrorists entered India

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-Pakistan team to be brought to airbase on March 29

-Airbase to be barricaded by NIA



Top quotes from the discussion:

"Some media reports in Pakistan are linking Kulbhushan Yadav with terror activities in Pakistan." - S Varadarajan of TheWire.in

"If the narrative is that Kulbhushan was gathering intelligence, then he wasn't working to destabilise Pakistan," - Former Indian envoy to Pakistan Satyabrata Pal

"Kulbhushan Yadav might have been compromised in many ways if he is not a spy." - Ex-R&AW chief AS Dulat

"The arrest of Kulbhushan can be a positive thing for the Indo-Pak relations. Both can move ahead from here." - Former Pakistan envoy Aziz Ahmed Khan

"We are sure of India's interference in Balochistan." - Aziz Ahmed Khan

"If Kulbhushan Yadav is not a spy, the kind of relations we have with Pakistan could help him in returning." - AS Dulat

"It's good that at political level, both India and Pakistan governments have been restrained in what they are saying." - Varadarajan

"We will have to wait until we have a Pakistan spy in our custody whom Pak would like to get back. It is not a big deal that Kulbhushan Yadav had a passport under a Muslim name. It might be a forged one." - AS Dulat

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"If Kulbhushan Yadav is a spy, it will be tough to bring him back." - Dulat

"Access to a counselor is not granted to a spy, it should not be given." - Aziz Ahmed Khan

"We can't speculate why Kulbhushan Yadav was not in touch with his family." - Pal

"In the past, everyone said there was no conclusive evidence, now Pak has evidence." - Ayesha Siddiq, Pak defense analyst

"Pakistan has an obsession that R&AW is involved in Balochistan. Our side of story is that Kulbhushan was kidnapped somewhere near Afghan-Iran border." - AS Dulat

"We did not have any evidence to back our claims, now we have an evidence in form of Kulbhushan Yadav." - Aziz Ahmed Khan



Watch the full show here:



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By PTI: Washington/Phnom Penh, Mar 28 (PTI) The US today returned an ancient decapitated statue of Hindu god Rama stolen from Cambodia during the South East Asian countrys civil war in the 70s.

Called the "Torso of Rama", the 10th century sandstone statue sans its head, arms and feet was acquired by the Denver Art Museum 30 years ago from the Doris Weiner Gallery in New York City.

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The museum said it only realised the Khmer-era statue was looted from the Koh Ker temple near the famous Angkor Wat complex in the 70s after recent discussions with Cambodia.

"We were recently provided with verifiable evidence that was not available to us at the time of acquisition, and immediately began taking all appropriate steps... for its return home," the museums director Christoph Heinrich said in a joint statement with the Cambodian government.

Officials from the museum and the Cambodian government marked the handover of the 62-inch-tall statue in a ceremony in Phnom Penh.

"We are joyful with the torso of Rama returning home," Cambodian official Yim Nolson said, and appealed to museums and collectors around the world to "follow this good example by returning the Ramas head to Cambodia".

Voluntarily returning the ancient statue highlights "the governments efforts to repatriate those artifacts that left the country illegally, which are parts of our soul as a nation", Cambodias Secretary of State Chan Thani said in the statement.

Denver Art Museum director Christoph Heinrich and government officials draped jasmine garlands over the statue during the ceremony.

In May last year, a 10th century stone statue of Hanuman was returned to Cambodia by the Cleveland Museum of Art.

In January, a 7th century stone sculpture of Harihara, a deity that combines aspects of Vishnu and Shiva, was returned by France and reattached to its body for display at a museum in Phnom Penh, more than 130 years after it was spirited away.

Angkor Wat and other mighty cities and temples were built in Cambodia, which was home to the Khmer Empire, a Hindu- Buddhist dynasty. PTI SAI AKJ SAI

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By PTI: New Delhi, Mar 28 (PTI) The US Agency for International Development (USAID) and Asian Development Bank today signed a pact for providing Rs 5,681 crore (USD 848 million) to develop solar parks across India, as part of clean energy infrastructure in the country.

The agreement was signed by Jonathan Addleton, Mission Director, USAID for India and M Teresa Kho, Country Director, India Resident Mission, Asian Development Bank (ADB).

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"Through the agreement, USAID will align the technical resources of two of its programs to support ADBs investments in the development of solar parks and renewable energy transmission infrastructure in states at the forefront of Indias efforts to promote clean energy", the US Embassy said in a press statement.

The collaboration will initially focus on the state of Rajasthan, it said.

The cooperation will design and develop public private partnership models as well as study options for managing grid reliability.

In particular, USAID technical activities will help place investments of Rs 2,331 crore by ADB for transmission infrastructure for renewable energy deployment in western Rajasthan.

USAID will also work with ADB across India with an additional Rs 3,350 crore (USD 500 million) of investment in the design and development of solar parks.

Under the terms of the MoU, the USAID will align components of their technical assistance with ADBs current and planned investments in renewable energy.

USAID, through its Partnership to Advance Clean Energy Deployment (PACE-D) Program, will work with the ADB to assist Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and select states in the design and development of public private partnership (PPP) investment models for solar parks.

The assistance will focus on bringing innovation to the grid integration of power from concentrated renewable energy generation areas such as solar parks.

The specific frameworks for technical assistance are being established in coordination with MNRE, ADB said.

"ADB welcomes this collaboration with USAID that brings together our respective strengths, expertise, and resources to the common objective of supporting Indias targets for clean energy expansion," said Kho.

"USAID and ADB have a shared interest in helping the government of India achieve clean energy targets. This partnership with ADB is a good example of how together we can broaden and multiply our contribution," said Addleton.

The government has targetted to install renewable energy capacity of 175 gigawatts by 2022. (MORE) PTI KPM ABK

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Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organisation wants to make the country exploitation-free and full of self-respect and whole world to salute India.

By Mail Today: Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the organisation wants to make the country exploitation-free and full of self-respect and whole world to salute India.

"We want the whole world to chant ' Bharat Mata Ki Jai' We want to make Bharat (India) rich, free from exploitation and full of self-respect. For that we will have to live that Bharat in our lives," Bhagwat said at the launch of a book on the life of late Madan Lal Agarwal, co-founder of Friends of Tribals Society.

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The RSS chief said after partition, Pakistan did not stake claim over the name 'Bharat' because it does not accept the qualities which are in Bharat. He said the Vedas, 'Dev Bhasha', 'Aadi Bhasha' and even the grammar of Sanskrit was created in the region that now belongs to Pakistan. "But they (Pakistan) took their own name and left the name 'Bharat' for us because the qualities which they don't accept are in Bharat," Bhagwat said.

Referring to the Ramayana, whose veracity is questioned by many, Bhagwat said, "We say that it is very ancient but it is history." On a lighter vein, Bhagwat said he was lucky to be leading RSS. "I don't know what would have happened if there was an election. But here it is appointment. I am lucky," he said.

Earlier this month, the RSS chief's remark that youth should be taught patriotic slogans triggered a debate after AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi refused to chant Bharat Mata ki Jai citing he was not obliged by the Constitution to do so.

ALSO READ:

Centre using nationalism issue to divert attention





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Sources in the NIA told India Today TV that India has decided to ask for the voice samples of Maulana Masood Azhar and other JeM leaders.

By India Today Web Desk: As a five-member Pakistani joint investigation team (JIT) begins its probe into Pathankot, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) has decided to confront Islamabad with evidence of Maulana Masood Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) being responsible for the January terror attack.

Sources in the NIA told India Today TV that India has decided to ask for the voice samples of Azhar and other JeM leaders, against whom it claims to have direct evidence linking them to the attack on the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot in January.

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NIA sources claim Azhar was in touch with his brother JeM supreme commander Rauf Asgar, who in turn was in touch with the key planner and handler in Pathankot attack, Kashif Jaan. The probe agency claims it has intercepts of the conversations between the slain terrorists and them.

Besides, India is also asking the Pakistani team why all the arms and ammunitions recovered from Pathankot siege had a Pakistan stamp on it. "Clothing, medicines, shoes, food packets, thermal wear and even wire cutters were brought from Pakistan," the NIA source said.

India has also asked Pakistan to start responding to the Letter Rogatories sent by New Delhi if they "really want to cooperate" with the Pathankot investigation as the two countries began formal discussions, making it the first-ever visit of a JIT from the neighbouring country that includes an ISI official.

The five-member Pakistani JIT is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer, Shahid Tanveer.

The Pakistani team, which arrived on Sunday, is being given a detailed presentation today on the probe done by Indian agencies so far and evidences that show that the attack was planned in Pakistan. The team will on Tuesday visit Pathankot for the probe into the attack on January 2, which left seven security personnel and all six terrorists dead.

The IAF base will be visually barricaded by NIA to prevent any view of critical areas. The NIA team would show some of the areas where alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists were engaged in an 80-hour-long gun battle with security personnel.

India plans to provide the Pakistani team access to all witnesses in the case, but not to the security personnel from National Security Guard or BSF. The witnesses include Punjab Police Superintendent of Police Salwinder Singh, his jeweller friend Rajesh Verma, cook Madan Gopal and 17 injured persons.

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The sources said that cooperation to the Pakistani team would be based on the principle of reciprocity hoping that an Indian team would be allowed to travel to Pakistan at a later date. In the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case, Pakistan had sent a judicial commission to cross-examine some of the witnesses in the case.

ALSO READ

Pathankot terror attack: 5-member Pakistan probe team arrives in India



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By India Today Web Desk: BJP's ally Shiv Sena today asked if Jammu and Kashmir chief minister designate Mehbooba Mufti will ever chant Bharat Mata Ki Jai, the contentious nationalist slogan being aggressively promoted by the BJP and its ideological mentor, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

"There is a debate going on over nationalism. The question being asked is: will Mehbooba Mufti say Bharat Mata Ki Jai?" senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut asked today.

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Mufti is set to become the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir where her party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is in alliance with the BJP. The decision to continue the alliance was taken following a two-month long standoff between the two parties over core issues, including the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

Last week, Mufti staked claim to power in Jammu and Kashmir after the BJP informed Governor NN Vohra that it was ready to support the PDP chief as the first woman chief minister of India's only Muslim-majority state.

The date for the swearing-in ceremony, however, has not been decided as yet because the two coalition partners are still discussing ministerial portfolios - a last-minute hitch in forming the state government - which leaders of the two parties said would be resolved soon.

Sena, which is in alliance with the BJP at the Centre and in Maharashtra, also claimed Mufti is "sympathetic" towards Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. "These people are not ready to call him a terrorist," Raut said.

Jammu and Kashmir-based PDP has been ambivalent towards Guru, who was hanged in 2013 for the 2001 attack on Parliament. The party believes that hanging the Kashmiri militant was a miscarriage of justice, forcing the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party to ask what was the new government's position on Guru.

"J&K deserves an elected government and we welcome celebration of democracy. But will (the) BJP tell what is the stance of PDP-BJP on Afzal Guru now," Congress spokesman Randeep Surjewala asked in a tweet.

AAP leader Kumar Vishwas also asked the PDP chief to "voluntarily give a statement in the media that you hold Afzal Guru as a traitor and not as a martyr".

ALSO READ

We want the whole world to chant 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai', says RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat



We cannot force people to chant 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', says Shashi Tharoor



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Sourav Ganguly said it was unfair to compare batsmen from different eras while Wasim Akram said both Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli were different kinds of players.

By India Today Web Desk: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who said Virat Kohli was a better chaser than Sachin Tendulkar, today insisted that it was unfair to compare both these batting legends as they belonged to different eras. (Also read: Virat Kohli ushers in a new era, move over Tendulkar, Lara)



Kohli's masterclass against Australia last night prompted comparisons with Tendulkar, who had won India several matches single-handedly in his hey days. Kohli hammered a 51-ball 82 as India defeated Australia by six wickets to storm into the semi-finals of the ICC World Twenty20. (Also read: Virat Kohli better than Brian Lara, says Ian Chappell)

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Ganguly maintained that Kohli has done better than Tendulkar in terms of chasing but reiterated his stance of not comparing different eras.

"In terms of chasing, Kohli has done better than what Sachin has done," Ganguly told India Today. " But it is not right to compare him with Tendulkar. The great man scored a 100 international tons. I am not in favour of comparing different eras; it's just not fair. (Kohli shames trolls on Twitter for targeting Anushka Sharma)

"The Australian team of that era is very different from the one in this era. There is a lot of difference between the Pakistan teams of both eras," he said.

Kohli, like Tendulkar before him, has stood out with some sensational knocks against Pakistan and Australia. (Also read: Virat Kohli best batsman in the world, says Sunil Gavaskar )

"India were fortunate to have Tendulkar; we are all fortunate to see the way Kohli plays now," Ganguly said.

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram said it was difficult to compare Kohli and Tendulkar but added that the prodigy was catching up with his idol quickly.

"They are both very different players. It's difficult to compare Kohli with Tendulkar but he is almost there. He works hard off the field and enjoys his success," he told India Today.

Kohli has been in sensational form this year, starting with the ODI and T20I series against Australia, the Asia Cup and the World T20. Former Australia captain Steve Waugh had said that Kohli would be key for India to win the World T20 and it looks like the hosts are well on track now. Kohli is in red-hot form ahead of the semi-finals.

'

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Some of the notices went out as text messages to mobile phones and asked, "Are you affected by the explosion?" without giving any indication of where, or how close, the recipients were to danger.

By Reuters: Facebook Inc apologized to users on the other side of the world from Sunday's suicide bombing in Pakistan who received computer-addressed notices asking if they were safe.

Facebook users as far away as New York and Virginia showed notifications they received on social media site Twitter.

"Unfortunately, many people not affected by the crisis received a notification asking if they were okay," Facebook said in a post on its site. "This kind of bug is counter to the product's intent... We apologize to anyone who mistakenly received the notification."

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Some of the notices went out as text messages to mobile phones and asked, "Are you affected by the explosion?" without giving any indication of where, or how close, the recipients were to danger.

More common notices displayed on computer screens and mobile devices said the explosion was in Lahore. The blast by a suicide bomber at a park killed at least 65 people, mostly women and children.

The flawed notices were the latest stumble in Facebook's evolving "Safety Check" practice of prompting users to quickly let their friends know they are okay after being in the vicinity of a tragedy.

In November, hours after blasts in Nigeria, Facebook activated Safety Check after criticism that it was being selective about deploying it. A few days before those blasts, Facebook had used it after gun and bomb attacks in Paris but not after suicide bombings in Beirut.

Facebook previously had used the feature after natural disasters, but not bombings or attacks.

Also read:

Brussels terror attack: Facebook activates safety check



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In 2008, then-CEO Steve Ballmer tried unsuccessfully to buy Yahoo for about $45 billion.

By Reuters: Microsoft Corp executives are in early talks with potential Yahoo Inc investors about contributing to financing to buy the troubled internet company, a person familiar with the situation said.

The talks are preliminary, the person added, and Microsoft is focused on preserving the relationship between the two companies. Microsoft and Yahoo have longstanding search and advertising agreements.

Private equity firms interested in Yahoo approached Microsoft, the person added. Microsoft declined to comment.

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Yahoo is auctioning its core Internet business, which includes search, mail and news sites. The faded Internet pioneer has been struggling to keep up with Alphabet Inc's Google and Facebook Inc in the battle for online advertisers.

Verizon's Chief Financial Officer Fran Shammo said in December that the U.S. wireless carrier could look at buying Yahoo's core business if it was a good fit.

Activist hedge fund Starboard Value LP moved on Thursday to overthrow the entire board of Yahoo, including Chief Executive Marissa Mayer, who has struggled to turn the company around in her nearly four years at the helm.

Microsoft's interest in Yahoo comes nearly a decade after another approach. In 2008, then-CEO Steve Ballmer tried unsuccessfully to buy Yahoo for about $45 billion.

Website Re/code previously reported meetings between Microsoft and investors.

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The Samsung Gear S2 will now be available in 5 variants in India: Gear S2 Classic Black, Gear S2 Classic Rose Gold, Gear S2 Classic Platinum, Gear S2 Black and Gear S2 White.

By Saurabh Singh: Samsung on Monday launched three new variants of its circular Gear S2 smartwatch in India , including an 18K Rose Gold colour option for the Gear S2 Classic. Of the three new versions, two of them will be available for the Gear S2 Classic. The regular Gear S2 meanwhile gets an all new White option. With this, the Samsung Gear S2 will now be available in 5 variants in India: Gear S2 Classic Black, Gear S2 Classic Rose Gold, Gear S2 Classic Platinum, Gear S2 Black and Gear S2 White.

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The Platinum and Rose Gold variants will be complemented by premium leather straps (standardised 20mm), in Ivory White for the Rose Gold and Black for the Platinum. The Gear S2 White meanwhile comes with a white elastomer strap.

"Gear S2 is a sleek and smart wearable that enable users to augment and personalise their mobile experience and lifestyle. The introduction of these new variants with additional apps and watch faces will further add to the style and convenience quotient. Samsung Gear S2 is a true testimony to our commitment to provide breakthrough technology to make lives of our consumers richer," Manu Sharma, director, Mobile Business, Samsung India Electronics said.

At the same time, the company also announced new apps for the platform including cab-hiring service Uber, G'Night sleep tracking app, reminder specialist My Notes in Gear and YouTube browsing app Xenozu. Moreover, games like the puzzle based Hextris, classic car racing Vroom Rider, brain teaser themed Hangman as well as Play store games like Space Wars & Snake are now available on the Gear S2.

While the Gear S2 White has been priced at Rs 24,300, the Gear S2 Classic Gold and Platinum variants will be available for Rs 34,900.



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According to Alef website, Alinaghi Khamoushi, former head of Irans Chamber of Commerce in an interview with Naseem Online said that Rouhani government, despite the passage of more than 2.5 years of its life, has done nothing for the countrys economy and we see that before the banks situation being improved, monetary policies are faced with many problems and policies of the government planning program are very weak and unfortunately in the Rouhani government, the country is run entirely ad hoc.

Elsewhere in the interview, Khamoushi added that currently you are unable to find any economic activist who is satisfied with the economic decisions of the Rouhani government. There isnt a single day that voice of dissatisfaction of economic actors or producers from a corner of the country is not heard.

Tasnim news agency quoted Eshaq Jahangiri, the First Vice President of Rouhani, on March 16, 2016 commenting about the possibility of decreasing prices of some commodities and goods in the New Year with implementation of JCPOA, said that this is not a realistic expectation.

In the meantime, according to Tasnim news agency, Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian regime deputy Foreign Affairs Minister said on February 26 that economic growth should not be expected from JCPOA, hoping that that with its signing, all economic doors would be opened up to Iran.
On July 13, 1989, forty days after the death of the Islamic Republics founder Ayatollah Khomeini, Dr. Abdolrahman Qasemlou, the leader of the Iranian Kurdish Democratic Party, was assassinated. It was soon determined that he had been shot three times at the negotiating table by the chief of the delegation that had come from Tehran to conduct secret negotiations with Qasemlou.

At the time, Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani was the President of the Iranian regime and the head of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) which is the highest decision-making organ on military, political and security issues. SNSC is composed of the heads of three government branches, two representatives of the supreme leader , ministers of interior, foreign affairs and intelligence, the Chief of Staff of the armed forces, and commanders of the Revolutionary Guards and the military, among others. The decisions made by this organ are directly approved by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei .

Rouhani was the Secretary of SNSC at the time of the assassination and was personally aware of the plot.

The assassination of Qasemlou was the first in a series of assassinations of the Iranian opposition abroad during the tenure of President Rafsanjanis. This and other terrorist acts had been approved by the SNSC.

Around the time of the operation, Manouchehr Mottaki, the Iranian deputy foreign minister on Western European Affairs, repeatedly summoned the Austrian consul in Tehran and threatened the lives of Austrian diplomats and the embassy staff . The plan was to shoot dead Qasemlou and his two companions during trusted negotiations. The regimes negotiating team included Mohammad Jafari Sahraroudi, Mostafa Haj Ajvadi and Amir Mansour Bozorgian (Ghafour Darjazi). Sahraroudi was injured during the operation and transferred to the hospital. Bozorgian was arrested only to be released in 24 hours and took refuge at the Iranian embassy in Vienna.

Additionally, Ali Akbar Velayati, who was then the Iranian foreign minister, sent messages to Austrian officials saying that Iran was prepared to move forward from this incident and resume economic relations, but also threatening Austria that more extensive terrorist operations.

As such and despite the opposition of the Austrian Police, Austrian leaders ordered Mohammad Jafari Sahraroudi to be taken to the airport and sent back to Tehran. In a short while Amir Mansour Bozorgian also fled Vienna.

A while later, as investigations progressed, Austrian officials decisively concluded that the assassination in Vienna had been committed by the same team that was negotiating with the Kurds. Thus, on 22 December 1989, an international arrest warrant was issued for Sahraroudi and his two colleagues.

Mohammad Jafari Sahraroudi is currently the chief of staff for Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani. And now, 26 years later, then-SNSC Secretary Hassan Rouhani is returning to Vienna as regimes President.
[March 28, 2016] Global Smart Cards Market Expected to Reach US$14.17 bn by 2023

According to a new market report published by Transparency Market Research Smart Cards Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2016 - 2023, the market was valued at US$ 7.25 Bn in 2014 and is expected to reach US$ 14.17 Bn by 2023, expanding at a CAGR of 7.4% from 2016 to 2023. Asia Pacific was the largest revenue contributor in 2014, accounting for over 47.4% of the global smart card markets revenue. The growth is mainly driven by the increasing adoption of smart cards for applications such as telecommunication, toll collection, ticketing, and drivers license, and national and cross-border identification cards. Asia Pacific is expected to retain its dominant position and is expected to become the fastest-growing market for smart cards during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific smart cards market is estimated to expand at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2016 to 2023. China, India, South Korea, and Japan are expected to be the major contributors to the market in near term.







Avail a Sample Research Study on Smart Cards Market http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=844 The declining prices of SIM cards, along with increasing requirements to migrate to EMV standards, are fueling the adoption of smart cards across the telecommunication, financial services, retail, and loyalty sectors. Moreover, with the growth of security threats and fraudulent activity, rise in demand for highly secure and expedited transactions, communication, and identification solutions from the telecommunications, healthcare, government, and transportation sectors is also contributing to the growth of the market.



Smart cards are classified based on components into memory-based smart cards and microcontrollers-based smart cards. Memory-based smart cards are powered by card readers and are mainly used in low-end and mid-end SIM cards. Microcontrollers-based card usage is driven by the added functionality such as security and intellectual data processing capabilities. Based on incorporation of the components, different smart card types are available in the market: contact smart cards, contactless smart cards, dual interface smart cards, and hybrid smart cards. Of these, contact smart cards are expected lose market share to contactless and other card types. Contactless smart cards provide a technology platform for the addition of new applications to access control systems and facilitate more secure identity verification for both physical and logical access. Additional security features provided by contactless and dual interface smart cards is driving their adoption in ATM/credit/debit cards and e-IDs, and transportation IDs among others. Contactless smart cards accounted for 18.6% of the total smart cards market revenue in 2014 and is expected to register the highest growth of 11.5% from 2016 to 2023.





Browse Market Research Report: http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/smart-card.html Geographically, Asia Pacific dominated the global smart cards market in 2014. This was mainly due to increases in the number of mobile subscribers, which in turn is propelling the growth of SIM cards and in turn smart cards. The global market for smart cards was dominated by the leading players Gemalto NV, Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) GmbH, and Oberthur Technologies, which collectively accounted for more than 50% of the global market revenue in 2014. Other players competing in the market include Morpho S.A., Eastcompeace Technology Co., Ltd. Watchdata, Datang Telecom Technology & Industry Group, and Wuhan Tianyu Information Industry Co., Ltd.



The report includes an analysis of the global smart cards market and provides estimates in terms of revenue (US$ Mn) from 2013 to 2023. Market estimates are provided for segments, categorized on the basis of types, components, and geography. The market has been segmented as follows: Market Segmentation of Global Smart Cards Market: Smart Cards Market, by Types Contact Smart Card Contactless Smart Card Hybrid Smart Card Dual-interface Smart Cards Smart Cards Market, by Components Microcontroller Memory Cards Smart Cards Market, By Geography North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa (MEA) Latin America Browse Article : http://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/article/smart-card.htm About Us Transparency Market Research (TMR) is a global market intelligence company, providing global business information reports and services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insight for thousands of decision makers. TMRs experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants, use proprietary data sources and various tools and techniques to gather and analyze information.



Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports. As a community-building service, TMCnet allows user submitted content which is not always proofed by TMCnet editors. If you feel this entry is of inferior quality or wish to report it for some reason, please forward the URL to "webedit [AT] tmcnet [DOT] com" with your comments.

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When transplanting donated organs, time is of the essence. Transplantation stands the best chance to succeed when performed as quickly as possible after the donor surgery. A heart or lung is kept viable for transplantation for only six hours before deterioration begins. A pancreas or liver go to waste after 12 hours in storage, and a kidney can be kept outside the body for less than 30 hours.

One of the main problems standing in the way of storing organs for more than a few hours is ice growth. When organs are frozen, expanding ice crystals damage the cells in a way that they cannot be revived. Therefore, organs which are removed from a donor are kept cooled but not frozen.

A Hebrew University team led by Prof. Ido Braslavsky is now contributing significantly to the effort to perfect the process of preserving cells, tissues and organs in sub-zero temperatures. This would enable long-term banking of tissues and organs and efficient matching between donor and patient, eventually saving the lives of millions of people around the world.

The ability to freeze organs and to then thaw them without causing damage to the organ itself would be revolutionary in terms of our chances to save lives, Braslavsky said in a statement.

Braslavskys area of specialty is so-called antifreeze proteins, ice-binding proteins that help organisms resist or withstand freezing in water and on land by inhibiting the formation and growth of crystalline ice. Ice-binding proteins were discovered some 50 years ago in Antarctic fish and are now known to exist in cold-resistant fish, plants, insects and microorganisms. They actively inhibit the formation and growth of crystalline ice, and their superiority over other antifreeze substances is that they are needed in very low amounts to do it effectively.
Itongadol.- The fight against BDS has now extended to the artistic arena. A significant number of key figures and politicians have joined forces for the good of hasbara (Israeli public relations) in its struggle against the propaganda of organizations calling for a boycott of Israel.

They have recruited to the struggle leading artists from Israel and abroad who will present their "hasbara caricatures" at an exhibition to be presented at Ynet and Yedioth Ahronoth\s Conference dedicated to the fight against BDS on Monday, March 28, in Jerusalem.

This unique hasbara initiative is led by the artists Uri Fink, Shai Charka, Yossi Klar and Asaf Finkelstein, who are acting through their Facebook page, "The Israeli Cartoon Project." Finkelstein, who understands the power of caricatures in the digital world, explained, "The project was founded because of the hurt and frustration that many Israelis and Jews all over the world were experiencing because of the anti-Israeli campaign."

He added, "The dozens of artists taking part in the project hope to increase the Israeli hasbara\s chances of attracting attention from different communities around the world and get a fair chance at competing in the public-relations arena."

Klar said that the idea came together about a year ago when Britain\s National Union of Students decided to boycott Israel, but not ISIS. "We understood that Israel had a serious problem," he said, "because if they\re boycotting Israel and not ISIS, then are we worse then they are?"

He added that the Facebook page was founded to be a platform that would be a sort of "home for hasbara" with caricatures and without a political agenda.

"We acted with the understanding that a picture is worth a thousand words. For us, a caricature is worth a thousand pictures. It\s important that we have a wide tent, without a political left and right, just Israel in the eyes of the world. This is a very efficient method; if there\s something that Jews are really good at, it\s humor, and we\ve found that this is the right way to influence others."

Israeli illustrator and comedian Uri Fink joined this unique journey; he wasn\t hard to convince. "It was completely logical to me," said Fink, "Asaf came to me with the idea that we would use caricatures because he had noticed that PR wars are fought through them. In our generation, caricatures are the best weapon that you can send to your friend on Facebook and share on Whatsapp and Twitter."

Fink added that thus, the message is transmitted intelligently, sophisticatedly and humorously. "We\re basically giving people a weapon on Facebook, and they\ll know from where to take the appropriate caricatures and share them. It\s simply wonderful that you can see on all the caricatures how many times they\ve been shared and how many people have \liked\ them.

"We didn\t set out to draw just to show off. Lots of people think that we work for the government, but that\s incorrect. We don\t receive any remuneration and are doing this to share our truth and to help the State of Israel."

As of today, the Facebook page has gathered more than 13,000 likes, and it has more than 120 caricatures. Finkelstein said, "We call on everybody to take part in the project and to be involved by following our Facebook page."
When a person graduates from high school, they can choose the higher education route and spend lots of money getting a degree or they can spend lots of money on farmland and equipment to become a farmer.

The first one might end up paying some real estate taxes if they eventually buy a home. The second one is being taxed to death if they live in Nebraska, where the lion's share of funding for schools and local government spending comes from farmers and ranchers. It is time to do away with the archaic idea of taxing property, which may or may not produce income, and instead implement some other fairer system of taxation, such as perhaps a local income tax ("Property tax bill heads to floor debate," March 25).
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2 killed, including former Padmakanya Campus FSU Chairperson, in road accident

Two people, including former Free Students Union (FSU) Chairperson at Padmakanya Campus died in an accident that occurred at Pathlaiya-Amlekhgunj road section on Monday morning.
Balaju locals file writ against road expansion

Locals of Balaju have moved Patan Appellate Court against governments decision to expand the Balaju-Baisdhara-Bypass road section.
Earning an MBA shows you mean business

With business schools in the country evolving rapidly and in sync with international standards, an MBA obtained in Nepal will be on par, if not more valued than a degree earned abroad
Fourteen passengers injured in night bus accident

Fourteen passengers were injured when two night bus met with an accident at Bardibas of Mahottari along the East-West highway early on Monday morning.
Making it through the storm

Sustainable urbanisation is essential to protect cities against future natural disasters
Mugu parched as prolonged drought dries water sources

The residents of Murma settlement in Rara VDC are facing water shortage after the water sources in the area dried up because of prolonged drought.
Pakistan Taliban faction claims park attack on Lahore Christians

A Taliban splinter group says it carried out a suicide attack on a park in the Pakistani city of Lahore, which killed more than 70 people, including children.
PMs China visit boosts ties to strategic partnership

Prime Minister KP Sharma Olis China visit has boosted the Nepal-China bilateral relations to a new height of strategic partnership, according to China Study Center-Nepal.
Stuck in a haze

The country needs a dedicated agency to control pollution and protect environment
Transit accord with China marks an important milestone for Nepal

Nepal signed the Agreement on Transit Transport with China during Prime Minister KP Sharma Olis recent visit to the country.
By Park Si-soo



North Korea is losing ground in South Korean academic circles at a time of growing military tension between the two countries.

Universities here have closed or downsized departments that offered courses on the country in recent years, citing relatively high unemployment rates of graduates and difficulty in attracting freshmen.

Students and North Korea experts say the situation is a short-sighted policy that should be halted to safeguard ongoing studies and research into the reclusive state, and to nurture human resources to prepare for unification.

They warn that this trend will create another ironic situation in which South Korea falls behind countries such as the U.S. when it comes to North Korean studies.

Despite the outcry, universities appear determined to keep downsizing.

Insiders recognize the importance of the department but say that keeping it afloat despite underperformance is all but impossible, especially in the face of the deteriorating financial health of universities.
U.S. Republican front-runner Donald Trump said in a news interview released over the weekend that if he becomes president, he will allow South Korea to have its own nuclear weapons and consider pulling out U.S. troops from the country.



According to The New York Times picked up in Seoul on Sunday, Trump described his foreign policy as being "America first" and that he will not stand by as the U.S. is "ripped off" by smarter, shrewder and tougher countries.



The entrepreneur-turned-politician said that he is not adverse to South Korea and Japan developing their own nuclear deterrence to check Pyongyang's provocations.



He said that with North Korea having nukes, it makes sense if neighboring countries have similar weapons to protect themselves.



The North, despite warnings from the international community has detonated four nuclear devices starting in 2006, with the latest being tested on Jan. 6.



He then said that unless South Korea and Japan significantly increased their contributions to Washington's military presence on their soil, he would withdraw soldiers. Trump said such a move is not something he would like but would push forward anyway.



Trump said the United States can ill afford to lose vast amounts of money by stationing troops in these countries.



The latest remarks, which are seen as Trump's most in-depth discussion on foreign policy so far, directly contradict Washington's long-held stance on nuclear non-proliferation in Northeast Asia, and the country's firm commitment to safeguarding its two key allies -- South Korea and Japan -- by stationing troops.



The United States has some 28,500, mostly ground forces in South Korea, and has maintained a sizable naval, Marine Corps and Air Force contingent in Japan. Washington has mutual defense treaties with both countries.



Trump stressed that while the United States will be friendly toward everyone, the country will no longer be exploited.



"We cannot afford to be losing vast amounts of billions of dollars on all of this," he said in the interview.



Related to the latest remarks, local political watchers said that Trump has made similar statements about pulling U.S. troops out of South Korea in the past.



In a earlier interview with The Washington Post, Trump said that as a rich country South Korea was "free-riding" on defense and that the United States was being treated unfairly. At the time, he indicated that a move to acquire nuclear weapons by South Korea and Japan was something that needed to be discussed.



He argued that if the U.S. continued to show weakness on the global stage and a lack of resolve to tackle security challenges, these two allies will move to become nuclear powers.



"Trump may be hinting that he wants a renegotiation of the defense treaties with South Korea and Japan," a local source said. He pointed out that the presidential hopeful also lambasted the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for not being beneficial to the United States.



The Republican, meanwhile, said that he did not support the use of nuclear weapons unless there was no other recourse. (Yonhap)




Officials from a North Korean firm on a U.N. sanction list over its suspected arms trade visited Iran earlier this month after the U.N. Security Council imposed tougher punitive measures on the firm, a source said Monday.



The Korea Mining Development Trading Corp. (KOMID), known as North Korea's primary arms dealer and main exporter of goods and equipment related to ballistic missiles and conventional weapons, has been sanctioned by the U.S. and the United Nations since 2009.



Ranking officials from the company visited Iran on March 6, which has been long suspected of maintaining ties with North Korea over nuclear and missile programs, according to a source familiar to North Korean affairs. Tehran has denied such speculation.



The UNSC adopted a fresh resolution on March 2 for tougher sanctions over the North's January nuclear test and long-range rocket launch in February.



The 15-member council blacklisted an additional 16 North Korean officials including KOMID representatives in Iran and Syria.













It is not immediately known whether the KOMID officials who visited Iran are among the blacklisted individuals under the U.N. sanctions.



Experts said that their visit to Tehran might be aimed at discussing ways to minimize the impact of the U.N. sanctions on its missile exports to Iran.



"It is not known what they did in Iran," the source said, adding that there is a chance that they might have met with officials from Shahid Hemat Industrial Group, an Iranian defense manufacturer.



The international community has lifted crippling sanctions on Iran in exchange for halting all nuclear programs.



North Korea has vowed to continue to develop nuclear weapons, rejecting calls from the international community to follow in Iran's footsteps.



Citing a U.N. report, Japan's Kyodo News reported on March 15 that North Korean officials from the blacklisted KOMID have traveled throughout the Middle East, Asia and Africa repeatedly over the past several years, (Yonhap)
The Food For Thought learning series takes place at the Winona County History Center, where lectures, films and book chats begin at 12:05 p.m. and last approximately one hour (unless otherwise noted). Attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch. A beverage is served. All are free and open to the public.

The Easter Uprising with Dr. William Crozier: April 6.

In April 1916, armed units of the recently constituted Irish Volunteers and the Irish Citizens Army occupied the General Post Office and other buildings in central Dublin. Padraig Pearse, one of the leaders, proclaimed the establishment of the Irish Republic. At this time, England was waging war against Germany and the central powers. Ironically, more than 200,000 Irishmen were fighting for England in this war. Crozier will tell this interesting event and its connection to both his family and Winona.

Odes for the Rebellion, New poems by C. Mikal Oness, Thursday, April 21, 7 p.m.

These new poems by C. Mikal Oness, author of Water Becomes Bone and Oracle Bones, explore the poets place in the progressive social and political revolution taking place in our middle class by means of metaphors made from subjects as far afield as Bigfoot, Ufology, farm machinery repair, mountain climbing and dogs. Chad is a poet, publisher and potter (but not a purveyor of potted plants) who lives in rural southeast Minnesota with his wife, the novelist Elizabeth Oness, and their two border collies. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

Log onto www.winonahistory.org for more or call 507-454-2723.
The Coulee Region has become a global nerve center for organic farming in part because of the cooperative nature of its inhabitants, according to Organic Farmer of the Year Steve Pincus.

The food co-ops and the sense and spirit of cooperation really have made organic farming into a staple for the area, Pincus said during a press conference in February at the MOSES Organic Farming Conference at the La Crosse Center.

Pincus received the top farmer award along with wife Beth Kazmar for their work on their organic farm near Evansville, about 170 miles southeast of La Crosse and 22 miles south of Madison.

Farming 46 acres of their 76-acre spread, the couple sells produce to co-ops and to members of their community-supported agriculture customers in Madison, with Milwaukee also being a prime market for their certified organic Tipi Produce farm.

Madison always has had that radical fringe that thought organic made sense, even back when it didnt make sense for others, Pincus said with a husky laugh.

Wisconsins tally of nearly 1,500 certified organic farms is second in the nation only to Californias total of more than 3,000. The Badger State ranks first in organic dairy farming.

Vernon and Monroe counties have by far the highest concentrations of certified organic farms in Wisconsin, according to the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Although an exact tally was not available, a 2015 DATCP map based on 2013 figures indicates that Vernon and Monroe counties have between 61 and 219 such enterprises, with Trempealeau County being home to between 31 and 60 and La Crosse and Jackson counties having between 11 and 30.

Heavily influencing the areas reputation as the organic farming capital of the Upper Midwest and, arguably, the nation is the fact that the largest organic food cooperative in North America is headquartered in La Farge.

Organic Valley, which seven struggling farmers founded in 1988 as the Coulee Region Organic Produce Pool, became the first organic-only foods company in the world to surpass $1 billion in annual sales on Dec. 22. It now includes more than 1,800 farmer-owners in 33 states and four Canadian provinces.

The future of organic farming remains bright, said Jim Riddle of Ceres Trust, a Chicago-based organization that helps fund organic research that incorporates farmers into the process.

The research is done with farmers to make sure it is realistic, said Riddle, who co-owns Blue Fruit Farm near Winona, Minn., with his wife, Joyce Ford.

Riddle cited the findings of a Washington State University study that found, among other items:

Organic farming systems enhance soil quality and lessen erosion.

Organic operations provide greater plant diversity.

Organic farms result in little or no pollution to water, unlike farms that use synthetic chemicals.

During a drought, organic farms can provide higher yields because their creation of more organic matter in soils makes them retain more water.

The 27th annual conference of the Spring Valley-headquartered Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service set an attendance record of 3,508 farmers, advocates, vendors and others.

The conference marked a milestone for Faye Jones, who has been executive director of MOSES since its inception 17 years ago.

Never did I imagine that organic would become normal in my lifetime, Jones said. I thought it was something my kids would see.
A new program by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture is looking to build connections between farmers old and new.

The Minnesota Farm Transition Program, launched in fall 2015, is an official extension out of a growing idea from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Jim Ostlie, of the Agricultural Marketing and Development Division of the department, said the state wanted to create one site where farmers either looking to break in or looking to retire can easily connect.

Our goal is to connect farmers looking to retire that have no heirs, desire to keep their farm in production and are willing to give an opportunity to the right person with a beginning farmer that doesnt have a farm to inherit or take over, nor has the financing to outright buy in or purchase, he said.

So far the program has signed up more than 30 beginning farmers and nine retiring farmers, as well as several others working on making arrangements. In Winona County, there already are three beginning farmers looking into the program, though no existing farmers so far.

Creating a system to transfer farm ownership is not as easy as just making a good introductions, Ostlie pointed out. For a farmer thinking about retirement, the process is emotional. And it takes years.

Ostlie estimated five to 15 years for a full transfer. Many incoming farmers would start out as employees, gradually being trained, mentored and purchasing assets.

It takes quite a while for something to come to fruition, Ostlie said. You want to make sure both parties are secure in what they want to do.

The department emphasizes that the program doesnt involve any obligations until both sides are comfortable. Signing up just creates the opportunities.

Breaking in is hard to do

For young, aspiring farmers, those opportunities can be hard to come by.

Most are interested in the program because of financial barriers. Tillable land prices have recently reached as high as $8,000 per acre in Winona County, at one point a few years ago soaring toward $10,000. Adding the capital costs of equipment and other factors, starting out from scratch can be, in a word, prohibitive.

Not to mention the learning curve for starting out on your own for the first time.

Hannah Brotherton of Rollingstone said all those factored into her signing up for the state program.

Brotherton, 32, said shes always been interested in farming, working on her familys farm and her uncles farm in summers. But Brotherton said her family farm is slated for a brother to take over, so she is trying to find someone else to work with. Brotherton said if she did have her own farm, she would like to eventually move into a variety of organic produce, because the market is growing.

At first she said she was wary of trying to work with an older farmer, because she thought they may be too set in their own ways to allow for cooperation and eventually transitioning their farm.

But, she said, shes optimistic it would be a learning experience for both  provided theyre able to find each other.

I think its great that (the state is) pairing people up, Brotherton said. It opens up doors to help people who cant get a farm.

Brian Dohrn, another beginning farmer, has also explored the opportunities for farm transitions. Dohrn said he had been around farms and was hoping to take over a farm of his grandparents after other family members retire.

He said he was in the process of raising pigs there and also transitioning part of the land to organic, in hopes of tapping into that market.

Dohrn said that he was lucky to have the opportunity to do so, when most farms are growing larger and the number of smaller farms being sold independently, and not to existing farmers looking to expand, is decreasing.

A lot of people arent that lucky, Dohrn said. The landscape has changed a lot.

Challenges and opportunities

Aging farmers are often stuck between spending years planning and looking at options, like finding a younger farmer who can take over the farm or waiting until age or injury force retirement and having to put the farm up for sale.

Art Thicke saw both of those problems.

The La Crescent farmer, who is in his 60s, is in the middle of the process. He started the process on his own, before the state program existed.

Art and his wife, Jean, said a years-long transition is important, not only to give time for both sides to consider the change but also in case something goes wrong  something they have experience in.

The couple, who dont have any kids to pass the farm to, had planned to transition their more than 500-acre family farm to their nephew, who had actively helped on the farm for many years. Plans were going well, until the nephew and wife were killed by a drunk driver in 2003.

Not only did the couple mourn, they had to recommit to managing the farm at an older age without anyone to help.

A family friend came over to help and mentioned his son and wife were looking to get into farming. The young couple seemed to be a good fit, but it would take years of them working on the farm until Art and Jean grew comfortable with the idea of transitioning.

At first the Thickes worked as hired help, and after a while they began to sell acres and help add cows to help build equity for the new farmers. Now the couple are partners with the Thickes, running what everyone feels is one farm, rather than two split operations.

Jean said an important part of the process was starting early and moving slow.

You need to start ahead of time, Jean said, because it might be a trial-and-error situation.

Art agreed. He said theyre in their third year working as partners and plan to continue the arrangement for now, splitting costs.

You got to work together and make it work, Art said.

Art said he supports the new state program because having something in place to provide more information and make connections is crucial, especially for older farmers. It gives them the opportunity to look for new partners and avoid waiting too long before realizing they need to come up with a plan for retirement.

Ostlie said the state is working with farming organizations across the state to get the word out and continue building the program.

Its simply an offering of a different choice to people who dont want their farm to stop production but cant continue farming, and those eager to start farming but with no resources or connections to jump in.

This is just another tool in the toolbox to offer resources and opportunities, Ostlie said.
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker was all business Monday, signing a student internship bill into law in La Crosse, one of several pieces of legislation designed to increase college affordability.

Walker signed Assembly Bill 742 into law in Centennial Hall on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse campus, a bill that creates new positions at the Department of Workforce Development to coordinate and increase the number of student internships available to college students. Walker also signed other bills into law as part of efforts his administration and Republicans have made to increase college affordability.

The bill requires the DWD, as part of its Fast Forward workforce training program, to provide coordination between institutions of higher education and employers in order to increase the number of students in professional internships. The bill provides $200,000 in funding for two full-time-equivalent positions in the department for that purpose.

Before signing the bill, Walker said internships help students get their foot in the door in the workforce. Internships also help motivate students to complete their degree on time, getting them graduated and into a career.

Creating access to internships will help them do that and do it faster, Walker said.

After signing the bill into law, Walker took a few questions from reporters. When asked, he said the new internship coordinators wont distinguish between paid, unpaid and internships taken for credit in their work with colleges and universities. Because he was in town on business, Walker declined to comment on reports that he might endorse Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz later this week, or on Holmen Republican Julian Bradleys recent announcement he was challenging Onalaska Democrat Steve Doyle for the 94th Assembly seat.

The governor signed two bills earlier in the day at Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids that will provide additional grant assistance to Wisconsins technical college students. Assembly Bill 740 will provide an additional $1 million in support for the Wisconsin Grant program for technical college students who demonstrate financial need, and Assembly Bill 741 will provide $320,000 annually for emergency grants for college students at risk of not completing their program because of short-term financial hardship.

These are proven strategies. This new investment focuses not just on access, but ultimately on student success, Morna Foy, president of the Wisconsin Technical College System, said. Employers in every sector and region rely on the talent of technical college graduates for the success of their businesses, more than ever given the demographic challenges facing Wisconsin.

Walker also was scheduled to sign a fourth piece of legislation Monday afternoon in Eau Claire, mandating increased financial literacy and cost reporting from colleges and universities. All four of these bills were part of a college affordability package Walker had been talking about around the state since January.

Wisconsin Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Jennifer Shilling of La Crosse, have criticized Walkers college affordability proposals since they were first announced for not tackling student debt directly. They have called on Walker and Republicans to create a student loan refinancing option for Wisconsin borrowers, a proposal Walker said was not successful in other states that have tried it.

On social media Monday, Shilling blasted Walker and the GOP for not doing anything to tackle student loan debt directly. She accused Republicans of siding with Wall Street and leaving Wisconsins 1 million student loan borrowers out in the cold.

Walker said it was ironic that these critics, who he said did nothing to rein in tuition and college costs when they had control of the Legislature, were bringing this up now. Tuition rose by 8 percent or more each year under Democratic leadership, he said, and his proposals will help students find good jobs and complete their degrees faster keeping student from having to borrow more.

The best way to keep student debt down is to not to borrow it in the first place, he said.

After five years of GOP control, nothing has been done to lower the $19 BILLION in student loan debt owed by WI families. State Sen. Jennifer Shilling tweet


In Ohios presidential primary recently, 17-year-olds were permitted to vote.

Thats unusual because the voting age in the United States is 18. But during this election campaign, some people want to change the voting rules.

In Ohio, a judge ruled that 17-year-olds who turn 18 before the November 8 general election can vote.

Several groups, including Generation Citizen, want local governments to permit all 16- and 17-year-olds to vote. Generation Citizen argues that lowering the voting age will increase interest in government and politics.

A lower voting age would involve parents, teachers, and community members in the process of learning to vote, and ultimately voting themselves, raising adult voter turnout, said Oliver York, age 16. He is a junior at a San Francisco high school and working with Generation Citizens Vote 16 USA Campaign.

Arguments against lowering the voting age include: 16- and 17-year-olds are not mature enough and would vote the way their parents do.

Here is what one person wrote on the website debate.org: Its simply the fact that people at 16-17-years-old don't have the emotional or mental maturity of someone 20-years-old. Their minds are still crazed with the chemicals of being a teenager.

Professor Daniel Hart of Rutgers University has studied the arguments on both sides of the voting-age issue. He found knowledge of 16- or 17-year-olds about government is about the same as for 18- and 19-year olds. There is fall off for 15-year-olds, he said.

A University of Edinburgh study found many 16- and 17-year-olds do not vote like their parents. The study reported that 40 percent of these younger voters did not vote the same way as mom and dad in Scotlands 2014 independence referendum.

One reason for a lower voting age is that 18 is the worst age for people to begin voting, according to Scott Warren. He is executive director of Generation Citizen.

That is because at age 18 many teens leave home for the first time, either for college or a job, he said. They find themselves in a community they do not know very well.

And that makes it harder for them to learn about their new communitys voting rules and issues, Warren said.

Some countries already permit teens younger than 18 to vote.

Some examples from a recent survey by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency: Austria lowered the voting age from 18 to 16 in 2008. Argentina has allowed 16-year-olds to vote since 2012.

In Brazil, 16- and 17-year olds and those older than 70 have the option to vote. People aged 18-69 are required to vote.

Hungary allows 16- and 17-year-olds to vote if they are married. Serbia allows 16-year-olds to vote if they are employed.

Abigail Koerner, age 16, is a junior at a Washington, D.C., high school. She is disappointed she cannot vote for her Democratic presidential candidate -- Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont.

Said Abigail: I don't know enough about politics quite yet to make a distinction as to which party I affiliate with. But everything Bernie says about healthcare and education would benefit my life and the lives of people around me.

Warren said teens who start voting at 16 or 17 will continue to vote when they reach 18, 19 and 20 -- ages when turnout is now very low.

The United States now ranks 143rd in voter turnout, and we think we should be doing all we can to increase turnout, Warren said.

In 2012, 53.6 percent of the voting-age population voted in the United States, according to the Pew Research Center. That compares to 87.2 percent in Belgium, 86.4 percent in Turkey and 82.6 percent in Sweden. Belgium and Turkey require people to vote.

Bruce Alpert reported on this story for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section or share your views on our Facebook Page.

_______________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

primary  n. an election in which members of the same political party run against each other for the chance to be in a larger and more important election

process  n. a series of actions that produce something or that lead to a particular result

ultimately  adv. at the end of a process, period of time

disappoint  v. to make a person unhappy because they cannot do something that they want

affiliate  v. to closely connect (something or yourself) with or to something

benefit  v. to be useful or helpful


An Internet activist living in New York says Chinese officials have detained three members of his family in southern China.

Chinese officials are reportedly searching for the author of an open letter calling for the resignation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Activist Wen Yunchao said his parents and younger brother have been missing since Tuesday. He says the government harassed his family. Wen has been a vocal critic of Chinas government.

However, he denied involvement in the letter. He said he shared the letter on his Twitter account after it was published in China.

Wujie news posted the letter March 4. That was the first day of annual meetings of top Chinese Communist Party officials, known as the National Party Congress. In the letter, Xi is blamed for "unprecedented problems" in China, and it calls for him to step down.

A second Chinese reporter is said to have disappeared Tuesday from the Beijing airport as he tried to board a flight to Hong Kong. He has been identified as writer Jia Jia. His lawyer told Western news agencies that police "took away" the writer after he warned other reporters against re-publishing the letter.

Two top editors and two other technicians from that website are also reportedly being held.

Experts say the widening police probe suggests that investigators do not know who wrote the letter and are under pressure to find out.

The letter was signed by "Loyal Communist Party Members" and has spread widely by email.

Experts say Wujie was designed to report on Xi's economic plan to increase Chinese investment and trade in Asia and Europe. It began operations in September 2015.

President Xi has increased control of Internet coverage in China and removed opinions that differ from Communist Party leaders. The crackdown has brought harsher punishment for writers and editors whom the government says have spread rumors.

I'm Mario Ritter.

Lou Lorscheider reported this story for VOA. Mario Ritter adapted it for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor.

What do you think happened to the critic's family? Please leave us a comment below and post on our Facebook page.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

harass v. to mistreat or bother in a constant, repeated way

vocal adj. loud or outspoken

unprecedented adj. not seen before

probe n. an investigation, an effort to find out something


This is What's Trending Today:

In America, one big Easter tradition sends children hunting for hidden Easter eggs.

Children carry baskets and collect eggs made of chocolate or candy. They search in the house, their yards or a park.

But one egg hunt on Saturday went wrong in the northeastern state of Connecticut.

A candy company hosted an egg hunt for children. The company is called PEZ, and it hid more than 9,000 eggs on its property in Connecticut.

But way more people showed up than the candy maker expected.

The egg hunt was set up on three separate fields, and children would be assigned to hunt for eggs based on their ages.

But Monday morning, stories reported parents going out of control at the hunt and made PEZ one of the top trending topics on Facebook.

It turns out the parents rushed on to the fields where the eggs were hidden. They said they were trying to get eggs for their children.

But instead, they left behind a lot of hurt feelings.

One 4-year-old boy told a local television station someone pushed him over and took his eggs. The boys bucket for collecting eggs also broke.

One employee said the display of parents rushing onto the fields reminded him of locusts.

We did our best, he said. Unfortunately, it fell a little short.

Two PEZ pages on Facebook had comments from people saying the event was not organized well, while others said the parents overwhelmed an event designed for kids.

The company tried to make up for the chaos by giving people more candy as they were leaving the event, and passing out coupons for future purchases.

But in Washington, D.C., at the White House, the picture was very different. On Monday afternoon, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama hosted their Easter egg roll. It was the last before Obama leaves office after eight years.

The event featured thousands of people outside the White House who came to see the President and first lady read books to children, enjoy the grounds, play games and also roll eggs with long spoons. It is a tradition going back to the late 1800s.

And Thats Whats trending Trending Today.

Im Dan Friedell.

Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor.

What are some Easter traditions in your country? We want to know. Write to us in the Comments Section or on our Facebook page.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

locusts n. a type of grasshopper that travels in very large groups and that can cause great destruction by eating crops

chaos n. confusion and disorder


The U.S. Justice Department says that issuing large fines and putting poor people in prison for not paying them is illegal.

The law enforcement agency said putting people in jail or prison for not paying fines is unconstitutional. It damages trust in communities and local governments, it said.

The Justice Department warning came after a conference in Washington in December. It revealed that some communities relied on fines as a source of revenue.

The government found that fines and jailing happened frequently in Ferguson, Missouri. The small community near St. Louis was the center of attention in 2014. That year, street protests occurred after a policeman shot a black teenager to death.

It was reported by multiple media sources that Fergusons court fines account for 20 percent of the citys revenue. Fines were enforced for minor crimes like littering and speeding. Fines would reach over $500.

Attorney General Loretta Lynch, the U.S.s top law enforcement official, said local courts should not fine the poor to pay for the government, and then arrest people who cannot pay the fines.

The consequences of poverty are not only harmful, they are far-reaching, Lynch said. She continued to say the poor deserve the ability to support their families.

Im George Grow.

Ken Bredemeier wrote this story for VOANews.com. Jim Dresbach adapted his report for 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.

________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

relied - v. to depend on someone or something

revenue- n. money that is collected for public use by a government

account - v. to think of as

consequence - n. something that happens as a result of something else

teenager  n. someone who is between 13 and 19 years old

littering  v. to throw or leave wastes on the ground in a public place

warrants  n. court-approved documents that give police the power to do something
LEXINGTON, Neb.  One day, Barry McFarland walked out into his familys vineyard to discover grape leaves that were shriveled and deformed.

The vines, it was eventually discovered, had been killed by a herbicide that had been sprayed nearby and, propelled by a breeze, had drifted onto his property.

Macs Creek Winery had to replant nearly 3,000 grapevines and has required a hardship exemption from the state the past two years so that it could purchase grape juice from other states to remain in business.

McFarland estimated the cost of lost production, replanting vines and buying juice out of state at about $1.5 million.

It was a hard pill to swallow, he said.

Grapevines take five years to reach full production, and the vines killed in the spring of 2013 were just reaching that age.

We replanted, but theyre not at a point where they are at full harvest, McFarland said. It has a domino effect for six to seven years.

Such damage from chemical drift is a growing problem in Nebraska, as more and more vineyards are being planted, and more farmers opt to grow organic crops or raise honeybees.

Grapes, in particular, and some vegetables and hops are particularly susceptible to damage from chemicals used to control insects, weeds and fungus in traditional agricultural crops. Organic fields can be rendered nonorganic in the blink of an eye, and a beehive can be wiped out if the wrong chemicals are carried back into the hive.

But what do you do in an agricultural states like Nebraska, where the use of chemicals is commonplace to avoid millions of dollars of losses in traditional crops?

Complicating the matter is the fact that even proper application of some chemicals can cause damage miles away and days after a chemical is applied. Some pesticides, including one of the most common, 2,4-D, can vaporize days after being applied to a crop and then be carried for miles by the wind to damage other crops.

Such volatilization is much harder to prevent and avoid. In the case of Macs Creek, it took only a slight breeze, between 3 and 7 mph, to carry the wrong chemical onto the vineyard.

Mike Schilling of SchillingBridge Winery and Microbrewery in Pawnee City, Nebraska, said that, overall, he counts on a 20 to 25 percent reduction in the yield of his grapevines each year because of chemical drift.

I dont think its ever anything intentional. The crops are just very sensitive, said Schilling, co-owner of the southeast Nebraska winery.

The State Legislature, which has studied the issue, and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, which investigates cases of chemical damage, have responded with a push for more education and awareness.

The Legislatures Agriculture Committee conducted an interim study of chemical drift in 2014. While the study hasnt yet resulted in any legislation, the committee suggested increased use of a voluntary website that seeks to prevent problems by identifying the location of vineyards, organic crop fields and beehives.

Called DriftWatch, the website allows growers of sensitive commercial crops to register their location in an online registry. Applicators can then look at a map to see whether theyll be spraying near such an operation.

In the past five years registration of sensitive locations has nearly quadrupled, with 871 now listed on DriftWatch in Nebraska. The number of chemical applicators registered on the site has also grown, from 11 to 190 over the past three years.

This comes at a time when acres planted to grapes and organic crops have grown steadily. Vineyards alone covered nearly 600 acres at 250 farms, according to the 2012 ag census.

Complaints about chemical drift damage have also steadily increased, from 48 in 2005 to 83 last year. About 10 complaints a year involve specialty crops; other complaints are associated with traditional crops, as well as urban chemical applications for lawns and household pest control.

In the past year, the ag department issued six fines totaling $4,525 for chemical drift damage, improper disposal of ag chemicals and repeated errors in record-keeping on forms required when applying restricted-use chemicals.

Greg Ibach, director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, said DriftWatch is a good way to open the door of communication between specialty crop growers and those who need herbicides for corn and soybean production, and for weed control on road and utility rights of way.

Its important for our commodity crop farmers and our growing sector of specialty crop farmers to work together so everyone can be successful, Ibach said in a recent press release.

Its especially critical at this time of year, he said, because grapevines are entering a particularly vulnerable period when their buds are breaking out, and because farmers are readying their fields for planting, which includes applying herbicides.

The Department of Agriculture publicity is part of the additional education that is needed, said State Sen. Ken Schilz of Ogallala, who headed the committee when it studied the chemical drift issue.

The committee compiled a list of draft recommendations that included having the University of Nebraska develop maps to help specialty crop growers better locate their fields to minimize damage from chemical drift. Another suggestion: Explore creating a state fund to reimburse growers for crop damage, because its often hard to pinpoint the source of the chemicals and difficult to recover damages in court even if the source is known.

Schilz said that chemical companies would probably have to finance such a fund and that it would be difficult to make that a condition of doing business in Nebraska.

Likewise, he said, it would be problematic to ban the use of some pesticides in zones around vineyards and other specialty crops, as was suggested by some specialty crop growers. Specialty crops are still a small slice of the states agricultural crops and are dwarfed by the $11 billion value of traditional crops like corn and soybeans. The chemicals used are all legal products, Schilz said.

A task force is supposed to be created later this year to continue to explore the matter.

Its a tough issue, he said.

Winery owners McFarland and Schilling both said they get good cooperation from neighboring farmers.

McFarland also said the damage at his vineyard was not caused by a farmer. He declined to identify the source of the chemical and whether the vineyard was paid any damages, but a state investigation traced it to spaying done on a nearby irrigation canal right of way by a Nebraska Public Power District employee.

NPPD ultimately agreed to hold training sessions for its workers and identify all sensitive crops within one-half mile of its irrigation canals. In exchange, the Agriculture Department dropped a proposed $2,500 fine.

Most of the complaints fielded by the state were in May and June and involved 2,4-D and another popular ag chemical, glyphosate, which goes by trade names like Roundup and Rodeo. Most problems occur, those who were interviewed said, when weather conditions change or when a chemical applied days earlier becomes volatilized and begins to drift, sometimes for miles.

Paul Kolterman, a Norfolk sales representative for an ag chemical distributor and vice president of the Nebraska Agri-Business Association, said the industry spends a lot of time and resources educating applicators on how and when to properly apply pesticides, and researching how to avoid drift problems.

Commercial and aerial applicators are licensed, and classes are held regularly on how to apply certain chemicals. Label instructions also spell out proper use requirements.

Use of proper spray nozzles, spraying at the proper height and pressure, and using drift reduction agents can all reduce the chances of damage, Kolterman said. Spraying methods and mixtures are tested in a wind tunnel in North Platte run by NU to determine and reduce drift potential, he said.

Applicators want to do everything they possibly can to eliminate spray drift so they have no liability, Kolterman said.

He added that its probably impossible to eliminate problems 100 percent because were dealing with Mother Nature and living organisms.

So, Kolterman said, you do the best you can.

Paul Read, the vineyard expert at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said chemical drift is a more serious problem than we want to know but said there has been greater awareness of the issue in recent years.

He said test plots run by UNL usually get some chemical drift damage every year. Catastrophic losses like those at Macs Creek are an extreme example of what can happen, Read said.

Overall, he said, common sense and good communication with neighbors go a long way in preventing problems and assuring that everyone knows where sensitive crops are being grown and where chemicals are being sprayed.

The old saying is good fences make good neighbors, but paying attention to what youre doing and what your neighbor is growing is along that line, Read said.
New Delhi: Actress Athiya Shetty feels it is a great time to be a part of Bollywood with meaningful roles being written for women, adding that girls are making a mark not only on screen but off screen as well".

Asked whether there is a dearth of meaty roles for female stars, Athiya, who stepped into showbiz with Salman Khan's production Hero last year, said: "No, I think that is changing".

"People like Sonam Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Anushka Sharma, Vidya Balan and Deepika Padukone have made this concrete change happen. So, I think it is a great time to be in the Hindi film industry right now because there are roles for women and women are definitely making a mark not only in terms of being on screen but off screen as well," Athiya told IANS.

The daughter of actor Suniel Shetty hailed the increasing girl power behind the cameras.

She said: "We have Zoya Akhtar, we have so many women who are so talented and I don't feel like there is a dearth anymore."

What about her next project?

"I am going to be signing something. As soon as I sign I am sure you guys will know."

Athiya recently served as the muse for designer Namrata Joshipura at the recently concluded Amazon India Fashion Week (AIFW) Autumn-Winter 2016 in Delhi.

IANS
New Delhi - India's biggest ever land, naval and homeland security exhibition will begin in Goa on Monday.

It is the ninth edition of Defexpo India, a biennial exhibition and will be held from during March 28-31 at Naqueri Quitol in South Goa and will be inaugurated by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

Here's an all you need to know about the exhibition:

1000 companies to participate: It will see participation of at least 1,000 companies from across the world, including Indian. They will showcase their products catering to not just one of the largest arms market India but also to other countries in the region. Also exhibiting their products will be a large number of domestic companies, especially small and medium scale enterprises. A total of 510 Indian companies are expected to be part of the expo, double from the 2014 count, which stood at 256 companies. Meanwhile, the number of foreign companies is 490 as against 368 in Defence Expo 2014. In all 47 countries will be taking part in the exhibition against 30 countries last time. They include Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Russia, Sweden, UK, and the US.

Make in India push: With changes in government policies on defence acquisition and Make in India campaign, considerable impetus is being given to indigenisation in the defence sector. The exhibition would also try and project India as an attractive destination for investment in defence sector.

Joint ventures with foreign cos: India is among a handful of countries in the world with indigenous capabilities in the defence field such as multi-level strategic deterrence, ballistic missile defence, nuclear powered submarines, main battle tank, stealth destroyers, aircraft carriers and 4th generation fighter aircraft, a release from the ministry claimed. The event provides a platform for forging alliances and joint ventures in the defence industry. "The event also provides an excellent opportunity to the Indian Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private sector and other defence-related industries to demonstrate their capability to design, develop and deliver a wide range of military and civil products/services," a statement released by the Defence Ministry said.

First time outside Delhi: This is the first time this expo is being held outside the national capital. The Defence Ministry said the expo would be the largest one in its history. "The exhibition would be showcasing India's capabilities in Land, Naval and Security Systems as well as its emergence as an attractive destination for investment in Defence sector. This year's exhibition will be the largest DefExpo held to date," a release from the defence ministry said.

And the legal trouble: The land was acquired for an industrial estate; it has been temporarily allotted to the Defence Ministry for the expo. The locals are opposed to the event claiming that they were not taken into confidence. Petitions have also been filed before the Goa bench of Bombay high court, opposing it. The HC, which would be hearing the matter on Monday, refused to stay the event.
The right word, probably, to describe the sharp downward revision in the disinvestment target 2016 fiscal year by finance minister Arun Jaitley (to Rs 25,000 crore from the originally targeted Rs 70,000 crore) is jugaad.

How else one would describe the logic in setting an ambitious, unachievable target and scaling down it to almost one-third? Yet another jugaad is to continue digging into the pockets of state-run insurer, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to salvage the disinvestment programme to ensure the plan doesnt flop totally.

The Narendra Modi-government managed to raise Rs 19,514 crore through stake sale in PSUs in the fiscal year ending March, including the recent Rs 5,000 crore Offer for Sale (OFS) of National Termal Power Corporation (NTPC). With just three days left in this month, one can assume that this is more or less the final figure. For the fiscal year 2017, the government plans to raise Rs 56,500 crore through PSU disinvestment, of which Rs 36,000 crore is expected to come from minority stake sale in PSUs, while the remaining Rs 20,500 crore from strategic sale in both profit and loss-making companies. The government also plans monetization of land assets of PSUs.

Meeting this target is critical for Arun Jaitley to adhere to the fiscal deficit roadmap (3.5 percent in fiscal year 2017) and a repeat of the 2016 flop show could put the deficit management under pressure, especially if tax revenues disappoint and pressure on high public spending and banking sector capital requirements weigh. Going by the past experience, it would be tough for Jaitley to meet the target.

In the last 25 years disinvestment process, for which data is available, the governments have failed 16 times to meet the targets even though repeated failures havent deterred the governments to announce ambitious (mostly unachievable targets) in the annual budgets. There is no harm in being ambitious but setting a tall target and falling far short of it, when repeated, prompts investors and rating agencies stop trusting the disinvestment target numbers.

Hence, its time the government did some soul searching why there is repeated failure in meeting the target by big margins and whether its big reliance on LIC for the success of the disinvestment process is right.

There are two issues Jaitley should note here:

One, he should begin the 2017 disinvestment process as early as possible and not wait until the end for the right market. The trick, says D K Joshi, chief economist at rating agency Crisil, is to start at the beginning of the year itself.

Unless the government begins the disinvestment process aggressively in the first half, it is going to be very difficult (to meet the target), said Joshi. One must note that the NDA-government failed to hit the market early after it came to power when markets were riding on the Modi wave.

After the sentiment fizzled out, it has constantly blamed the tepid market conditions and was waiting for a good time to resume the process. Jaitley probably realised that the disinvestment process is turning a super flop show (till now , the government had raised only Rs 6,813 crore) toward the second half of the fiscal 2016.

Two, the government should seriously consider stopping using LIC to bail out most of the share sales. LIC is an insurance company that should be loyal to policyholders and not a bailout institution or a loyal milch cow as the government thinks it is. In the NTPC issue, LIC bought 60 per cent of the shares, in the process increasing its stake in the company to close to 13 per cent. Quite logically, had LIC not been in the picture, the sale would have been difficult.

In the fiscal year 2016 itself, LIC has picked up stakes worth Rs 11,441 crore in Indian Oil Corporation and NTPC. Too much reliance on the state insurer to bail out public issues is an unhealthy practice since this effectively means taking money from one pocket of the government and putting it in the other. This is against the spirit of larger idea of driving the growth of railways on the back of private investments.

The government has been depending too much on LIC not just to salvage its disinvestment plan but also for the massive scale up of railways. Going by Suresh Prabhus 2016 budget, the government plans to rely heavily on a debt-driven growth strategy, of which Rs 1.5 lakh crore will come from LIC over next five years.

Third, if the government fails to time the disinvestment, Jaitley runs the risk of missing the fiscal deficit roadmap in fiscal year 2017. The whole assumption of Arun Jaitley as far as fiscal deficit is concerned is based on the inward revenues (mainly disinvestment and telecom receipts). But, analysts have already flagged caution on this assumption. The most ambitious aspect of the budget is the 3.5 per cent budget deficit number, said a research report from Ambit on 1 March.

Given that the FM announced a 10.8% rise in spending, for the FM to deliver a 3.5 per cent deficit he will need 16 per cent total receipts growth in FY17. Whilst the FM has realistically budgeted 11.8 percent growth in tax revenues, he expects the proceeds from disinvestment plus telecom receipts to fetch Rs 1.6 trn in FY17 (vs Rs 0.8 trn in FY16). If this jump in proceeds does not materialize then we will be looking at a budget deficit overshoot (Rs 1 trn = US$15bn = 0.7 per cent of GDP). Specifically, the FMs explanation that telecom receipts will fetch Rs 1 trillion in FY17 (vs Rs 0.56 trillion in FY16) appears very ambitious, Ambit said.

The short point is this: There arent many economists who trust the disinvestment target numbers taking into account the past performances. Setting a realistic target and work early towards achieving this with a convincing roadmap is critical than announcing an over ambitious target and repeatedly failing to achieve the same. Else the whole process would tantamount to a joke.

Data contribution by Kishor Kadam
Mumbai: Equities tanked massively today amid profit-booking in expectations of volatility on derivatives

expiry while banks came under selling pressure ahead of RBI's credit policy as the market benchmark Sensex logged biggest

single-day fall in five weeks to slip below 25,000-mark. The 50-share Nifty also cracked below the 7,700-mark with a plunge of over 101 points.

After four straight session of gains and a long break, the trading opened with a gap-up note amid higher Asian cues. Absence of definite cues as most European markets remained closed for an extended Easter Holiday against the background of some members of the US Federal Reserve taking a hawkish tone, affected sentiment.

"On a surprising note the market is underperforming in spite of a strong case for rate cut which should have provided support on the downside," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit BNP Paribas.

Buyers looked hesitant, given the long list of event risks lined up in the next fortnight, added Geojit BNP Paribas's Anand James.

The 30-share Sensex opened higher at 25,417.11 and hovered between 25,432.94 and 24,895.49 before ending at 24,966.40, showing a fall of 371.16 points or 1.46 per cent. The index gained 660.19 points in the previous four sessions. Exchanges had remained closed on Thursday and Friday for 'Holi' and 'Good Friday', respectively.

The unveiling of the much-awaited Defence Procurement Policy by Union Minister Manohar Parrikar was sidelined as across-the-board profit-booking was witnessed led by metals, healthcare, realty, consumer durables, telecom, capital goods and industrials sectors.

In stock specific action, Tata Steel bore the brunt by tumbling 5.23 per cent to Rs 300.05, followed by SBI by 4.24 per cent to Rs 188.45 and Sun Pharma by 4.20 per cent to Rs 811.05.

Natco Pharma nosedived nearly 13 per cent after the firm received 483 observations from the USFDA after inspection of its two manufacturing facilities.

Lloyd Electric and Engineering ended with 2.5 per cent gains after the company announced the acquisition of Noske-Kaeser's rail and vehicles business in select markets for 2.3 million euros.

Indices in China, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan fell by 0.06 per cent to 0.73 per cent while Japan rose by 0.77 per cent. Hong Kong market was closed today.

Back home, in broader markets, mid-cap fell by 1.36 per cent, while small-cap index closed lower by 1.65 per cent. Of the 30-share Sensex pack, 17 scrips ended lower while three gained.

Major losers were Tata Steel (5.23 pc), SBI (4.24 pc), Sun Pharma (4.20 pc), ICICI Bank (3.86 pc), Tata Motors (3.63 pc), Axis Bank (3.37 pc), BHEl (2.92 pc), L&T (2.89 pc), Maruti (2.61 pc), Bharti Airtel (2.34 pc), HDFC (1.92 pc), Lupin (1.92 pc), Cipla (1.51 pc) and Coal India (1.36 pc). However, NTPC rose by 1.06 per cent followed by GAIL 0.42 per cent and Bajaj Auto 0.04 per cent.

Among BSE sectoral and industry indices, losers were realty 4.35 per cent, metal (3.92 pc), consumer durables (3.48 pc), telecom (2.21 pc), capital goods (2.08 pc), industrials (2.03 pc), healthcare (1.95 pc) and bankex (1.92 pc). The market breadth remained negative as 1,942 shares ended lower, 743 closed higher while 167 ruled steady.

The total turnover fell to Rs 2,741.47 crore from Rs 3,105.87 crore on last Wednesday.

PTI
New Delhi - The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and All India Bullion Jewellers and Swarnkar Federation (AIBJSF) said on Sunday that they will not withdraw their strike, which entered its 26th day, till the time the government withdraws the proposed one percent excise duty on non-silver jewellery.

In the wake of indefinite strike by jewellery trade in the country since 2 March against imposition of excise duty, the CAIT, in a a statement, said: "The basic fundamental of levying excise on jewellery trade is untenable since the finance minister in his budget speech has announced imposition of excise on manufacturing of gold & diamond whereas jewellery traders are merely the sellers and not the manufacturers."

It noted that under the Central Excise Act, there is no term like 'principal manufacturer' and as such, crafting this new term into the ambit of excise is against the provisions of the act and "a case of stretching powers to an unreasonable extent".

CAIT secretary general Praveen Khandelwal told reporters that the government should keep the decision in abeyance till the issue is resolved.

"Government should take traders into confidence and open the door for discussion on the matter. Traders are not running from paying taxes. The profit of traders are very low and one percent levy is very high," he said.

"We have been on strike for last 26 days and will continue to do so for indefinite period till the time government rolls back its decision," AIBJSF president Praveen Goel told reporters here.

He said that the worst-affected with this proposal are daily wage artisans.

Although the AIBJSF is continuing with the strike, three other associations - GJF, ABJA and GJEPC - called off the strike on March 19 following the government's assurance that there would be no harassment of traders by tax officials.

A three-member committee, headed by former chief economic adviser to the finance ministry, Ashok Lahiri, has been constituted to look into issues related to excise duty on jewellery and find a solution.

Over 300,000 jewellery shops owing allegiance to more than 300 associations across India went on strike since the excise duty announcement in the budget presented on February 29.

They have also been opposing the government rule making permanent account number (PAN) card as a mandatory proof on purchases of Rs.2 lakh and above.

The size of the gems and jewellery industry, that is still an unorganised sector, is estimated to be in the range of between Rs.2.5-3 lakh crore.

The government move was prompted by the aim to bring the growing sector into the mainstream of economic activity by levying a tax.

IANS
New Delhi - Tata Sons will soon control 49% stake in AirAsia India, having inked an agreement with Telestra Tradeplace to acquire all its remaining shareholding in the airline.

So from a three-way venture (it started with AA Bhd holding 49%, Tata Sons 30% and Telestra 21%), AirAsia India will eventually become a play between the Tatas and the Malaysian parent.

The remaining 2% equity will be acquired by two directors currently on the airlines board, in their individual capacities. Telestra is cashing out, hopefully at a premium, from the venture which heralded the first investment by any foreign airline into an Indian entity after restrictions over foreign carriers investing in Indian airlines were lifted in late 2012.

It remains to be seen whether an equal partnership between two shareholders works better than a three-way partnership, in a business which is quite tough as it delivers wafer thin margins amid ever-increasing competitive intensity.

This shareholding rejig could also be a welcome move though, since it removes ambiguity and will perhaps bring in more promoter focus to the tottering operations of AirAsia India.

The airlines need for funds remains dire as does its requirement of a clear operational strategy to survive in a tough-as-nails Indian aviation market. With shareholder focus presumably increasing and a new top management team recently put in place, things should begin to improve at AirAsia India.

The only thing now remaining is fund infusion  which has been ostensibly held up all this while at the reluctance of the Malaysian parent to bring in its share. A source close to developments had said earlier AirAsia BhD has now agreed to bring in a substantial investment to kickstart the Indian arm.

This source had said the discussions between the shareholders have been about infusing $100 million into AirAsia India even as analysts have said the airline needs about half that amount in the near term. Is the shareholding rejig a precursor to fund infusion into AA India?

AirAsia India has had a rough start. Remember, India is unlike most other markets where airlines pile up losses but rarely fold up, making life quite tough for new entrants.

Vijay Mallya finally ended his airline dream after sinking millions of dollars in the business in Kingfisher Airlines, Air India continues on the government dole despite massive accumulated losses, SpiceJet was very close to shutting down before former promoter Ajay Singh rescued it last January and Jet Airways is now starting to make a turnaround.

Besides powerful older competitors, India also offers a very high-cost operating environment, which brings further woes to small new airlines.

AA India was started as three-way partnership, with AirAsia BhD owning 49% equity, Tata Sons was at 30% and Telestra Tradeplace at 21%. This shareholding structure in itself has caused some pain to the airline since Telestra seems to have been unhappy with the way things worked.

So why did Tata Sons not take active part in making key decisions? It has been said in the past that AirAsia India is a board-driven company and all decisions are being taken by the board. Still, sources insist decisions related to network planning, fleet and commercial strategy are being first vetted by the Malaysian parent.

AirAsia India started operations in June 2014. The LCC saw an initial investment of $30 million but no more funds have been invested in it till date. It paved the way for the re-entry of the Tatas into the aviation business after previous unsuccessful attempts.

Why was Telestra Tradeplace at all asked to be part of an airline when it had no prior experience in the segment? Many industry experts believed at the time that the Tatas were hesitant in picking up majority 51% in the airline, wanted to test the waters.

And then, the Tatas went ahead and invested in another full service airline Vistara (in partnership with Singapore Airlines) which lead many to doubt whether the group will indeed retain required focus and support to two airlines operating in the same market albeit with different business models.

Kapil Kaul, CEO and Director of CAPA South Asia, had earlier pointed out that CEO Mittu Chandilya's recent exit and issues raised earlier by Bhatia of Telestra were neither significant nor would they change Air Asias dynamics and market profile.

"This JV had strategic fault lines from the beginning. Underestimating the fierce competitive dynamics in India and its aviation ecosystem led to two critical mistakes: Serious under-capitalisation of the project. More importantly, management depth and quality required for this complex market were compromised. India is a very difficult market and cannot be driven from the head office".

He said AirAsia's challenges and lack of performance cannot be attributed to the CEO alone.

"I strongly believe responsibilities lie with board and promoters. Tatas are so big as a group and this JV to me was non-strategic and too small to receive the attention it deserved. The AirAsia group is facing structural challenges in most of their markets for last couple of years and this resulted in lack of focus on Air Asia India."

AirAsia India claims to have one of the lowest cost structures among all Indian airlines but cash is urgently needed for network and fleet expansion to stay relevant in a highly competitive market like India where at least 3 in 4 flyers already fly an LCC. Its crying need is a substantial investment from the shareholders.

Speaking to Firstpost earlier, Chandilya had said operationally, the airline has been doing well. He had cited aircraft utilisation of 13.5 hours on a fleet of six aircraft, low cost base and increased overall operational efficiencies to say the airline was on the right path operationally. The manpower to aircraft ratio of the company was at a 110, he had claimed.

Incremental improvements in operations are also happening, with a new CEO, CFO and a Commercial Director now on board. In the December quarter of this fiscal, the airline claims to have made its first gross profit and in the month of January too, it claims to be making gross profit. This is a vast improvement over the Rs 65 crore loss it posted in the September quarter of this fiscal and Rs 24.71 crore loss in the year-ago period.

Originally, the airline had planned to add 10 aircraft to its fleet each year but market realities and the government dragging its feet over the 5/20 rule have forced AirAsia India to halt such ambitious plans. It now has just six aircraft in its fleet compared with 15 it would have had if the original blueprint were to be followed.

There is yet no clarity on when the next two aircraft will arrive since AirAsia India is awaiting the decision on 5/20. Earlier this month, AirAsias Tony Fernandes was quoted as saying two more aircraft will be inducted in three-four months.

This is a rule which bars Indian airlines from flying overseas unless they have completed five years of Indian operations and have a fleet of 20 aircraft. Chandilya had said fleet expansion is awaiting clarity on the Civil Aviation Policy (which will determine whether the 5/20 restriction stays or goes).

If 5/20 is scrapped, then tier I towns may become more important than tier II (which are currently the airlines focus) for overseas flights  basically, the entire network will undergo a change.
New Delhi: CBI has registered two fresh cases against gangster Chhota Rajan related to alleged murder of suspected rivals and assassination attempt on a businessman in Mumbai at the request of Maharashtra government authorities.

CBI sources said the first case relates to Bhendi Bazar shoot out allegedly executed by hired shooters of Rajan in February 2010 in which two persons  Shakeel Modak and Irfan Qureishi  were killed while one Asif Dadhi was injured.

Modak was believed to be very close to a well known politician who had been an MLC and an MLA. Modak owned a fishing trawler. Qureishi used to work in a printing press.

Dadhi was under the Mumbai police scanner over alleged illegal activities but was cleared by the competent court.

The agency sources said a case has been registered against four unknown persons under various sections of IPC related to murder and provisions of the arms act.

They said the second case relates to an alleged attempt made on the life of Mumbai-based businessman and hotelier BR Shetty in October 2012 by two motorcycle-borne shooters suspected to be linked to Rajan.

The case, which was probed by Amboli Police, has now been taken over by CBI, which has registered a case against two unknown persons under the IPC provisions related to attempt to murder, arms act and stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).

When asked about these cases, CBI spokesperson RK Gaur confirmed the development.

"CBI has taken over the investigation in these two cases which were earlier registered by the Mumbai police," he said.

Maharashtra authorities have referred to CBI over 70 cases in which involvement of Rajan is suspected. The agency has so far registered three cases including these two. Earlier, it had registered the case relating to the murder of journalist J Dey, who was allegedly shot dead on the instructions of Rajan.

CBI FIR does not name Rajan because according to rules, the agency takes over the report registered by the local police. After the probe, the agency may add or delete names of suspects in its final report submitted to the court.

Rajan was detained by Indonesian Police in Bali on 25 October last year on his arrival from Australia following a Red Corner Notice by the Interpol. He was later deported to India on 6 November, 2015.

CBI has also charge-sheeted him for allegedly using a fake passport which he used to dodge enforcement agencies.

PTI
A Hyderabad-bound Air India flight made an emergency landing at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport after smoke was detected in the undercarriage, according to IBN Live. All 120 passengers on board were evacuated immediately and the main runway of the airport closed.

Airport officials said around 7.30 am, when the flight was preparing to land, smoke was detected and it made an emergency landing as a precautionary step and the aircraft is back in the bay.

Recently, a spate of hoax calls disrupted many Air India flights. On 24 March, the airline received a bomb threat for its Jeddah-bound flight. According to a report in the DNA, though the authorities declared the threat as "non-specific," security was stepped for all flights on this route.

According to the Hindustan Times, a hoax caller had claimed last week that 23 Air India flights were under terror threat. The man going by the name of Mike said that he is based in New York and gave information that over 50 flights are under the threat of serial bomb explosions. The information given by him has so far proved to be false, but a a senior Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) official was quoted saying the authorities have not been able to trace his location.

If not hoax calls, then Air India flights have often been delayed for hours due to technical snags. Air India's Dreamliner hit with a technical problem was grounded in Paris on 25 March. Just a week back, Air India's Kolkata-Delhi fight faced the same problem, forcing a midnight replacement.

Currently, Air India has 21 Boeing 787-800, six more will be added to the fleet by August 2018. Reports suggest that the airline's engineering union had urged the management to defer the deliveries till the technical issues are sorted out.

On 9 March, Air India's Mumbai-bound flight made an emergency landing after a bird hit it during take-off. Officials said that the bird had hit the engine as a result all the 129 passengers on board had to return to the runway.

The list of Air India flights getting delayed or cancelled due to embarrassing technical glitches is more than five this month. The Pakistan High Commissioner to India Abdul Basit was on board an Air India flight from Kolkata to Delhi. The flight was ready to take off when the pilot noticed the technical problem. The flight had to be cancelled when the ground engineers failed to repair the problem.

Again this month, 160 passengers on board the national carrier's Airbus A320 had to be evacuated at the Mumbai airport following a tyre burst. According to The Wall Street Journal, the aircraft was more than 20 years old.

Last year in December, Ravi Subramanian, an Air India technician, died instantly after he was sucked into the engine of a parked plane at Mumbai airport.

With inputs from agencies
Hyderabad local court granted bail to all accused in the Hyderabad Central University row. The students and faculty members have received bail on the conditions that each person pays Rs. 5000 as surety and agree to appear before SHO gachibowli every Saturday between 10 am and 1 pm.

A court on Monday was set to pronounce orders on bail petitions of 25 students and two faculty members of University of Hyderabad as the public prosecutor did not file a counter to the bail plea.

A lawyer said the government had not opposed the bail, creating hopes that the students might get early bail.

The 25th Metropolitan Magistrate's court at Miyapur pronounced the orders on the bail pleas as the Telangana government choose not to oppose the petitions.

The students and faculty members, currently lodged in Cherlapally Jail, may be released late Monday evening or Tuesday.

On Tuesday, 22 March, Hyderabad Central University vice-chancellor P Appa Rao  currently under judicial probe in the Rohith Vemula case  returned to campus after his two-month-long leave. Students of the university protested outside Rao's lodge in campus. Some students were dragged outside the premises and a few among the group then threw stones at the police bandobast.

Students ransacked and vandalised the office of the vice-chancellor and there was a lot of damage caused to the Raos campus residence, according to this earlier report on Firstpost. A section of students barged into his residence, broke window panes, smashed doors, television and other items while shouting slogans against Rao resuming his duties as vice-chancellor.

On the allegations from a few student groups that AVBP members were part of the meeting with VC Appa Rao which triggered the protests, G. Gurajada, state executive member of the Telangana ABVP told Firstpost that none of the ABVP members were inside the meeting. "We don't have a problem with VC Appa Rao. Inside the meeting a few life sciences students were there and lab partners," he said.

With inputs from IANS
Internal police reports confirm that former Haryana Chief Minister BS Hoodas political strongholds of Rohtak, Sonepat and Jajjhar account for 95 percent damages to the state on account of widespread looting and arson during the Jat quota stir, which left his own properties untouched.

Till 19 March, 2016, roughly 2,100 FIRs have been registered, of which 1,200 are from Rohtak alone. Close to 450 people have been arrested based on these FIRs, relying on prima facie evidence. The police have launched investigations into the rest of the complaints.

This formal stocktaking is in line with a Firstpost expose of 22 February, 2016 which had pointed to a pattern in the quota stir. Maximum violence was seen in Rohtak and Jajjhar where the mob went on a rampage. In Rohtak, the mob looted properties along a seven-km stretch from the office of the inspector general of police to Quila Road, selectively left Hoodas house and properties untouched

While Hooda exited Rohtak in the nick of time, just before the violence erupted, Shrikant Jadhav, IG, Police, deployed a force of 200 to guard his home, effectively preventing them from controlling the mob fury.

The Jat quota stir held Haryana to ransom for over seven days from 18 February. Despite the army and paramilitary forces being deployed by the state government, the agitation, which displayed signs of being a politically sponsored, premeditated attack, left 30 dead and another 320 people injured.

The damages

According to a statement which Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar issued on the Jat riots, in the Vidhan Sabha, based on claims for compensation, the total damage assessment so far is valued at Rs 1,100 crore. It includes Rs 850 crore of public and private property destroyed, with an additional Rs 200 crore of damage to railway assets.

So far, nearly 1,800 properties have been damaged and 2,200 claims for compensation received by the state administration which are valued at Rs 524 crore.

Sources in the state administration confirm that the maximum violence and damage to property was witnessed in Rohtak City where roughly 650 properties were wrecked and 850 claims received, totaling Rs 300 crore. Overall, Rohtak district accounted for over 1,050 damaged properties and 1,325 claims amounting to around Rs 393 crore.

In Sonepat, roughly 125 properties were damaged and over 200 claims worth Rs 55 crore received.

In Jajjhar, roughly 90 properties were ruined and 150 claims totaling Rs 47.5 crore received.

Collectively, Rohtak District, Sonepat and Jajjhar account for roughly 95 percent damages accruing to Haryana on account of the quota stir.

Of the total claims received, compensation for 1,300 claims has already been paid, with interim relief being given in another 700 cases, totalling a payout of Rs 28 crore. The state government has formed a seven-member committee to administer claims of Rs 1 crore and above.

Insurance firms have received a total of 500 claims so far, which includes 340 for vehicles. The total payout on account of these claims is estimated at around Rs 9.8 crore, of which Rs four crore has been paid.

The riots left 30 people dead while injuring 320, including 72 policemen, with as-yet-unsubstantiated media reports of at least 10 women being gangraped in Murthal. The government has decided to allocate Rs 10 lakh as well as a government job as compensation to the families of those dead provided they are found to be innocent of not having participated in the rioting.

The Indian industry had earlier estimated an overall loss upwards of Rs 34,000 crore across the northern states as a result of loss of economic activity on account of the stir, saying that the disruption of over 550 trains would additionally impact economies beyond the northern belt. According to reports, Indias biggest passenger car maker Maruti Suzuki was also forced to halt production at two of its facilities in Haryana.

Who is accountable?

Firstpost, in a series of five articles between 22-29 February, had pointed to the premeditated nature of the riots. An audio tape surfaced in which Hoodas former political advisor Prof Virender Singh was heard advising Captain Man Singh Dalal (Retd), President of the Dalal Khap Chaurasi, to stir up trouble in Sirsa, while commending the work achieved in the Deshwal belt which comprises parts of Rohtak, Jind and Sonepat. Rohtak is Hoodas political constituency and hometown. Both parties have conceded to their participation in the recorded conversation.

The Congress, attempting a face saving measure, issued a show cause notice against ex-Hooda aide Virender Singh, but this was more with the intent to deflect political fire from Hooda.

Later, an FIR (number 0101) was registered in Rohtak Civil Lines Police Station against Singh and others for sedition under IPC Sections 109, 120B, 124A, 153A, 153B, 427 and Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act 1984.

The FIR records that these protests were being run and organised mostly by nears and dears and close party leaders and workers of Sh[ri]. Bhupinder Singh Hooda, ex chief minister of Haryana. On 18.2.16, violence erupted in Rohtak city which continued on 19, 20, 21.2.16 during which more than 500 shops, petrol pumps, schools, shopping malls, car show rooms, banks and houses of the public have been looted by agitators, vandalised and set on fire in an organised manner. Such type of looting, vandalism and arson was done in other cities of Haryana also. Due to large-scale arson, looting and vandalism the state of Haryana was forced to call paramilitary forces and the Army for controlling the law and order situation in the state.

Khattar has stated in the Vidhan Sabha that Virender Singh could not have orchestrated the violence single-handedly and the evidence pointed to the active collusion of several other political figures, including Pradeep Deshwal, president, Indian National Student Organisation (INSO).

Despite an arrest warrant against him, Singh remained on the run for 22 days, to finally surrender before the court on 17 March, 2016. His refusal to take a narco test is additionally suspicious if not incriminating.

Also suspicious is the fact that despite all attempts to stoke rumours of gangrapes in Murthal, with independent investigations undertaken by the National Commission for Women (NCW), activists, lawyers and the media, no victims have emerged so far, which was also documented by Firstpost on 26 February and 29 February.

Rohtak becoming a special target during the violent agitation is particularly curious, considering that both Hooda and Khattar belong to Rohtak; the only difference being that Hooda is a Jat and Khattar is not. The sequence of events, and the circumstantial evidence points to political rivalry being a strong motive behind the riots.

This is also borne out by the fact that large quantities of petrol as well as coal imported from China were used for the widespread arson witnessed during the agitation. This requires planning, funding, transportation and stockpiling and establishes premeditated action.

Add to this the fact that the BJP had already committed to giving the Jats reservation. Khattar had reiterated this commitment by conceding to the demands of the Jat leaders on 17 February, promising the passage of the Reservation Bill in the next session of the Vidhan Sabha. The riots have changed nothing. The same commitment remains applicable.

Administrative action

The state government has set up a committee headed by Prakash Singh, ex-DGP, UP to identify all government officers who were guilty of abdication of duty during the quota agitation. Khattar is personally monitoring all inquiries and related matters.

Srikant Jadhav, former IG, Police, Rohtak, and Amit Dahiya and Amit Bhatia, both DSP, Rohtak have been suspended for inept handling of the violence.

BK Sinha, additional DG, Police (Vigilance) has been appointed nodal officer to investigate the cases, including monitoring of all FIRs. His mandate includes pinpointing the damage to public and private property and to "establish the nexus between the organisers of the agitation and the perpetrators of the damage."
In a horrifying incident in Madhya Pradesh, a man was arrested for raping a cow and has been charged under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code.

According to The Times of India, the 50-year-old Sravan Vyas was caught in the act by three women in Betul town and the incident was report on 19 March.

Vyas, according to the report, was under the influence of alcohol and some other drugs that couldn't be deducted through medical examination.

While the locals wanted him also charged under the prevention of cruelty to animals act, Pankaj Tyagi SHO of Kotwali police station told The Times of India, "There was no evidence of any such cruelty to add that section. The section 377 of IPC covers it all."

As shocking as it was, such incidents have happened before in the state.

Another man in Madhya Pradesh was caught trying to rape a cow in 2013.

A report in The Times of India had said that 25-year-old Kankar Marar alias Chavanni was caught in the act and had escaped death because angry tried to lynched him.

Marar too was charged under Section 377 of the IPC after a complaint from the cow's owner.
Quepem: The External Affairs Ministry has been asked to extend all possible help to former Navy official Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested by Pakistan claiming he was a RAW operative, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

"We do agree, to the extent I know, that he is an Indian citizen and we have asked for consular access," Parrikar said, adding that he is concerned about Jadhav since he is a veteran.

Giving details, the minister said he had "indicated" to the MEA that Jadhav is an ex-officer and should be given all assistance and support required.

Praising External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Parrikar said the MEA was doing its best.

He said that Swaraj is very active and one can even reach her at night on Twitter and get a reply with action taken reports usually given by (next) morning.

"Sushmaji has been working vigorously to help Indians abroad who are in problem. In this case, since the other country has made allegations, it may take a longer time," he said.

Parrikar refused to comment anything more on Jadhav saying "other than paying him One Rank One Pension I cannot talk about anything on an ex officer".

Jadhav, a 1991 commissioned Naval officer, was arrested earlier this month by Pakistan authorities on the charges that he was dealing with Balochistan freedom fighters.

The allegation was that the officer, who retired in 2013, was an active RAW agent, a charge denied by India.

Government sources have said that Jadhav was a small businessman.

It is said that he often carried cargo to and from Iranian ports bordering Pakistan and has nothing to do with India's external intelligence agency.

Sources have said that there is no proof that the retired navy officer, who owns a cargo business in Iran, was arrested in Balochistan as claimed by Pakistan.

Jadhav could have been arrested after he strayed into Pakistani waters and was being wrongly charged, they said.

It is a matter of investigation whether he had accidentally strayed into Pakistani waters or was lured into Pakistan, sources have said.

PTI
New Delhi: In a stern warning to willful defaulters like Vijay Mallya, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said they should settle their dues honourably with the banks or else be ready to face "coercive action" by lenders and investigative agencies.

"I don't want to make any comments on individual cases but I think it's a responsibility of large groups like his (Vijay Mallya's) to honourably settle their dues with the banks," he told PTI in an interview here.

He further said that banks have certain collaterals of group companies of Vijay Mallya and will take legal action to recover dues that are in excess of Rs 9,000 crore.

"Banks have some securities. Banks plus other agencies have also coercive methods available with them through legal enforcement...these are all being investigated by relevant agencies," he said.

Mallya, promoter of long-grounded Kingfisher Airlines, had left India on 2 March, presumably for London, days before the Supreme Court heard a plea of clutch of state-owned banks seeking recovery from his group firms.

Mallya and Kingfisher Airlines owed Rs 7,800 crore to a consortium of 17 lenders led by State Bank, which had an exposure of over Rs 1,600 crore to the now defunct airline.

Other banks that have exposure to the airline include Punjab National Bank and IDBI Bank (Rs 800 crore each), Bank of India (Rs 650 crore), Bank of Baroda (Rs 550 crore), Central Bank of India (Rs 410 crore).

UCO Bank has to recover Rs 320 crore, Corporation Bank (Rs 310 crore), State Bank of Mysore, (Rs 150 crore), Indian Overseas Bank (Rs 140 crore), Federal Bank (Rs 90 crore), Punjab & Sind Bank (Rs 60 crore) and Axis Bank (Rs 50 crore).

The Finance Minister said the government has been trying to address the problem of NPAs in sectors such as steel, textile, highways and infrastructure, which are on account of economic slowdown.

"I think the NPA resolution process will now begin. The sectors which have caused distress... I have always said that there are two kinds of NPAs. One is because of economic environment, the losses in certain categories of industry. Now those areas we are trying to address," he said.

PTI
Hyderabad: Former union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Monday condemned the brutal police attack on students and faculty member of University of Hyderabad as he called on 25 students and two faculty members in Cherlapally Jail in Hyderabad.

He said the students who were staging a peaceful protest on 22 March on the campus were beaten up and arrested while Vice Chancellor P Appa Rao, who has been booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act is still roaming free.

Talking to reporters, Shinde said Appa Rao should have resigned after he was named in the FIR booked following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

"Instead of resigning, he went on leave and now he has come back as vice chancellor, which led to fresh unrest on the campus," he said.

He also alleged that Appa Rao held a meeting with leaders of ABVP before resuming charge as the vice chancellor.

Shinde, who was accompanied by Congress party's Telangana unit president Uttam Kumar Reddy and others, gathered details of the events of March 22.

He said the students showed him injury marks on their bodies due to brutal lathi charge by the police.

The former union minister also met Radhika, mother of Rohith Vemula and lauded her courage in fighting for the friends of her son. Paying tributes to Rohith, Shinde said he laid down the life for the country while following the path of BR Ambedkar.

Leaders of various student groups also met Shinde and briefed him about the incidents that occurred in the central university.

IANS
by Badri Narayan

Ambedkars symbol has become a necessity for those in power as well as those in opposition. It is required not only by people for whom Ambedkar fought during his life time but also by those against whom Ambedkar fought. Symbolically, it is required by the lion as well as the deer, by the vulture as well as the hunter. In short the Ambedkarite symbol has become indispensable. Each one wants to appropriate Ambedkar in their own way and add to it their own colour. The Marxists want Ambedkar in red, the Sangh family and the BJP want Ambedkar coloured in saffron, the Congressmen want Congressi Ambedkar. The RPI or the Dalit sects engaged in Dalit politics and the BSP want Ambedkar coloured in blue. It is thus, evident that every political party as per their political position wants to include Ambedkar within their own fold by making their own evaluations about him.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called himself a follower of Ambedkar. He inaugurated the Ambedkar Memorial in New Delhi and sketched a new model of symbols from the Hindutvavadi lens in which he showed his willingness to place Sardar Patel along with Ambedkar. In this programme he said that Sardar Patel and Ambedkar played a great role by linking the nation and the society respectively. Modi, through the medium of these symbols clearly elucidated the political lines on which BJP wanted to work in the future. During his explanation he said that nationalism and Dalitness should walk hand in hand. In other words we can say that he pointed towards the well thought politics of BJP of linking Hindutvavadi nationalism with the Dalit votes. During his speech he said that parties like BSP are involved in doing Dalit politics and link themselves with Dalit political tradition by portraying Ambedkar in the form of blue colour. In order to assimilate the Dalits within its fold the Prime Minister said that we are doing injustice to Ambedkar by portraying him only as the messiah of Dalits. He was not only the messiah of the Dalits but also the voice of the poor, deprived and the downtrodden. The Prime Minister through his speech endeavored to associate the Dalits with the terms poor and marginal as well, in effect not just looking at them through the caste lens, so that they could be made free from Dalitness and their symbolic door could be opened up for saffron nationalism.

The Prime Minister is soon going to visit Ambedkars birthplace, Mhow which has been visited on and off by Sonia Gandhi. Recently Rajnath Singh said in his speech that the BJP, in order to associate the Dalits, will accelerate the social harmony campaign once again. In a programme held by Rashtriya Sewak Sangh a few days ago in Rajasthan, a life -size statue of Ambedkar was placed in the centre of the stage. Many issues of the Sanghs leading magazine Panchjanya have been published in the recent days. It is clearly seen that the magazine's evaluation of Ambedkar in their articles, tries to bring him close to the Sanghs ideologies. On the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti being celebrated on 14 April, the BJP wants to carve a niche for themselves in Dalit hearts by celebrating the function through Ambedkars symbols in their big and small offices.

The BSP supremo seems annoyed at BJP's attempts to imbibe the symbols of Ambedkar. She said in one of her statements that people who were against Baba Ambedkars life and politics are today talking in his favour just to garner votes. She is skeptical that the BJP may steal Ambedkars symbol on the occasion of Ambedkar Jayanti and is therefore going to organize a big programme on this occasion in Lucknow. The Congress, threatened by BJP's endeavors, is also trying to bring Baba Saheb Ambedkar's symbol in their court.

Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are seen associating themselves with Ambedkars symbols by visiting Ambedkars birthplace at Mhow and Nagpur where he embraced Buddhism. Rahul Gandhi in order to retain his place in the Parliament as well as in Dalit politics outside has been raising Dalit issues on a large scale. Recently Congress introduced the Bheem Jyoti Yatra in various parts of UP. The Leftists, by associating the suicide case of Dalit scholar Rohit Vemula of Hyderabad University and the fight on the issue of torturing JNU student President Kanhaiya, are trying to look for similarities between Ambedkar's ideologies and the Leftists ideologies.In his much talked of speech after being granted bail, Kanhaiya garnered appreciation from left groups for his thoughts on unity between 'red and blue'.

While developing an understanding of the research and ideologies of social symbols I feel that symbols that are used frequently tend to lose their meaning, as opposed to other symbols that give space to many groups to interpret it the way they want to and appropriate it in their political structure by not considering its root. This can happen with the Ambedkar symbol too. But the contemporary politics of Ambedkars symbol reflects that it seems powerless as well as powerful. It is powerless because everyone wants to take political benefit of these symbols and powerful because it is not easy to cut off the original context or meaning of Ambedkars symbol. Ambedkars ideologies have its own cons that may be indigestible for those appropriating his ideologies for their own benefits. This process of appropriation will be especially difficult for the Hindutvavadi structures given the staunch criticism of the Hindu religion and the Indian caste system by Ambedkar.

Not only the Hindutvavadi forces but the Ambedkarite attack on the caste system has been worrying political parties at present and might worry them in the future too. Many leaders and workers discriminating against the Dalit castes at the grassroots occupy high positions in the political parties. In this situation their efforts to associate themselves with the Ambedkar symbol will clearly elucidate the difference and contradictions between myths and truth, theory and practicality.

It is not always possible to conceal the contradictions and fake identity of any political party or political figure. I feel that the only political parties that can make good use of Ambedkar's symbol is that which can live up to Ambedkar's concept of caste, religion, women and other critical concepts of nation in their everyday life. Otherwise any political identity in disguise symbolizing Ambedkar has immense possibilities of slipping off.

The author is a professor at the Centre for the Study of Discrimination and Exclusion, JNU.
A new and bitter political battle has begun between the BJP and the Congress  this time in Uttarakhand.

When the state was brought under President's Rule on Sunday, Chief Minister Harish Rawat lashed out at the Narendra Modi government, calling the imposition a "murder of democracy" and a "black" day.

President Pranab Mukherjee had signed the proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution dismissing the Congress government headed by Rawat and placing the Assembly under suspended animation on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet.

The Centre was of the view that continuance of the Rawat government was "immoral and unconstitutional" after 18 March when the Speaker declared the Appropriation Bill "passed" in controversial circumstances.

Here is how the political crisis in Uttarakhand unfolded:

The controversial passage of the state annual budget

On 18 March, nine Congress rebels had joined the BJP in the state Assembly in demanding a division of votes amid chaos on the state's annual budget that could have led to its fall.

The strength of Uttarakhand Assembly is 71 (including one nominated member) and the Congress has a razor thin majority. The Congress has 36, the BJP has 28, Bahujan Samaj Party has two, Independents have three, Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (P) has one, while one member of the Assembly is nominated.

Rawat government's failure to pass the budget would have meant that the government has lost the confidence of the assembly or a majority therein, leading to the fall of the government.

Among the rebel Congress MLAs in Uttarakhand were former chief minister Vijay Bhahuguna, Harak Singh Rawat, Amrita Rawat, Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion, Shaila Rani Rawat, Pradip Batra and Subodh Uniyal.

State Assembly Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal, however, had rejected the demand for the division of votes, triggering chaos in the Assembly with both Opposition BJP and rebel Congress MLAs sitting on a dharna in the Well of the House to insist on this procedure, terming it their democratic right.

The Speaker had then announced passage of the budget by voice vote and adjournment of the House till 28 March before he left his chair in the midst of prevailing din.

Ironically, BJP leader Umesh Agarwal had called the passage of the budget 'murder of democracy', a phrase which would later be used by CM Rawat after the state came under President's Rule.

BJP leaders meet Uttarakhand Governor, stake claim to form government

On the same night, a three-member BJP delegation comprising former chief minister and MP Bhagat Singh Koshiyari, BJP in-charge of Uttarakhand Shyam Jaju and general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya had met Governor KK Paul and had said that the Harish Rawat government was in a minority and sought its dismissal.

In response, Rawat had said claimed that he still enjoys a majority in the Uttarakhand Assembly and was ready to prove it on the floor of the House.

"Those who are saying they have support of 35 MLAs are misrepresenting facts. I am confident that I still have a majority in the Assembly and can prove it on the floor of the House," he had said.

Speaker issues notice to rebel Congress leaders

Two days after the chaos in the state Assembly, the Speaker had issued notices to the nine rebel Congress lawmakers who had met the governor, seeking dismissal of Rawat.

Notices had been issued to the nine rebel Congress MLAs following a request from party chief whip and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Indira Hridayesh seeking action against them for violating the party whip in the state Assembly.

The notices had been pasted on the walls of the houses of the MLAs concerned which asks them to submit their replies to the Speaker by 26 March evening.

The Speaker had asked the lawmakers why their Assembly membership could not be terminated. Kunjwal had further said that "anti-defection law is in place and whoever is found guilty of violating it will have to be acted against."

Vijay Bahuguna's son expelled from party for 6 years

On 21 March, Congress had expelled former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna's son Saket Bahuguna and party joint secretary Anil Gupta for six years for "anti-party" activities.

State Congress chief Kishore Upadhyay had said that the disciplinary committee recommended to the Pradesh Congress Committee that Saket and Gupta be expelled on the basis of their statements published in newspapers and broadcast by news channels.

Political war of words breaks out

On the same day as Saket's expulsion, BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya and his party colleagues had marched from Vijay Chowk to Rashtrapati Bhavan to meet President Pranab Mukherjee, requesting the President to direct the Uttarakhand Governor to dismiss the Rawat government and give the BJP time to prove their majority.

As expected, an intense war of words began between Congress and BJP leaders. Rawat had accused the BJP of spreading lies and trying to take political advantage of an internal rebellion in the Congress party. "BJP is trying to topple the democratically elected government here as they have been doing it in other states. An all-powerful BJP government at the Centre is clearly misusing its position to murder democracy in Uttarakhand," Rawat had said.

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had also targeted the government in a series of tweets:

Toppling elected Govts by indulging in horse trading & blatant misuse of money & muscle, seems to be BJP's new model, after failure in Bihar  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) March 20, 2016

This attack on our democracy & Constitution, first in Arunachal & now Uttarakhand, is the true face of Modiji's BJP  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) March 20, 2016

Congress Party will fight demagoguery with democracy  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) March 20, 2016

On the other hand, BJP had accused Speaker Kunjwal of working as Chief Minister Harish Rawat's "agent" and had asked him resign if he had even an iota of self respect left in him.

"By disallowing a division of votes on the finance bill in the House, the Speaker deprived the members' right to vote as he knew the majority was against it and it was bound to fall," BJP spokesman Munna Singh Chauhan had said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had said that Uttarakhand was a "textbook example of breakdown of governance."

Congress accuses Ramdev of plotting against the Rawat government

The political crisis in Uttarakhand took a new turn with the Congress dragging Ramdev into the picture, accusing him of hatching a plot with BJP leadership to topple the state government.

Uttarakhand Congress President Kishore Upadhyay had alleged on Wednesday that the yoga guru and BJP chief Amit Shah were conspiring to dislodge the state government and the rebellion against Harish Rawat by the partys MLAs was a result of this.

However, Ramdev had denied this allegation. "Not even in my dream did I have a talk with any Congress MLA or party worker. Whatever we do, we do it openly," he had said.

BJP releases 'sting video' against Rawat

The BJP had also released a sting video, showing the CM bargaining with rebel party MLAs and offering them money to win over their support during the floor test in the Assembly on 28 March. Rawat had called the video 'fake.'

Congress had alleged that the "dirty tricks department" of BJP president Amit Shah is at work, while the saffron outfit had demanded "immediate dismissal" of the Rawat government.

President's Rule and the relevance of its timing

As Ajay Kumar writes, how do you establish that there has been a break down in constitutional machinery in a state before the no-confidence motion even reaches the floor of the House? One does not dispute the fact that there may have been certain procedural issues arising from the passing of the Appropriations Bill in the State, but it has been constitutional convention for many years that the decision of the Speaker with regards to a procedural decision is often taken as final. Even so, if the Speaker's decision went against established constitutional principles, there are mechanisms in place to remove the speaker.

The power of the Central government under Article 356 is a most extreme power as it enables it to dismiss a Sate Government and place the Assembly in suspended animation or dismiss the enter Assembly if need be and call for fresh elections.

There was no such situation brewing in Uttarakhand. There are constitutional mechanisms in place to remedy this situation, and one of them is a no-confidence motion. One that was scheduled for Monday, but has now been rendered moot by an over-zealous central government. If the Chief Minster lost the vote on Monday, the Governor has a myriad of options at his disposal, including asking the Congress to return a new Legislative Party leader who would have the confidence of the House, or dissolve the House and call for fresh elections.

It is very interesting to note that if the nine congress MLAs vote against the Government, they could face disqualification under the Anti-Defecation Law. There are reports now that the Speaker has disqualified these nine MLAs under that law post the imposition of President's Rule.

What this proclamation does, however, is that it cuts short extensive constitutional machinery, designed specifically to deal with situations such as this and perhaps, at most, delay an inevitable early election. The last election was held in the year 2012, the term of this assembly was scheduled to expire in 2017 which elections scheduled for January of that year. It is curious to note that the BJP took 5 out of 5 seats in the 2014 General Elections from Uttarakhand. Maybe poll preparations have more to do with the proclamation than a legitimate breakdown in constitutional machinery. But so much for Federalism I guess.

Seldom have state governments been dismissed because of procedural decisions by a Speaker concerning a bill being brought to the floor for a vote, even seldom still before a scheduled No-Confidence vote.
Mumbai: The ruling and Opposition parties today had a heated discussion in Maharashtra Legislative Council over a farmer's suicide opposite the Mantralaya (State Secretariat) here last week.

The Opposition demanded that a murder case be registered against "errant officials". However, state Agriculture Minister Eknath Khadse said the state government had done all it could, and that the farmer

had received drought aid over a month back.

Madhav Kadam, a farmer from Nanded district, had attempted suicide by consuming an insecticide opposite the state secretariat here on 23 March, allegedly because of not receiving drought compensation despite his crop failure. He later died in an hospital on 26 March.

As the House assembled for the day, Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde, via an adjournment motion, said a government which believes in communicating through social media cannot respond to the cries of farmers.

"This suicide incident has happened because the government excluded farmers sowing cotton from getting compensation for crop failure. This is a government that believes in communicating through social media. But, why does it not hear the cries of farmers?" he asked.

He said the farmer had met a few ministers, tehsildar and Collector asking for help, but did not receive any.

Jayant Patil (of PWP) said it is the first time in the history of the state that a farmer has committed suicide in front of Mantralaya. "(Eknath) Khadse, while he was in the Opposition, had many a times demanded that a murder case be lodged against officials when a farmer committed suicide. Now, the district collector should be charged under IPC section 302," he said.

In his reply, Khadse said the government has decreased the percentage of crop failure necessary to be eligible for compensation.

"This government provides compensation if there is 33 percent crop failure. If we had gone by the previous rule of 50 percent, he would not have received a single rupee. But, for his losses he already received Rs 4,624 more than a month back," he said.

The deceased farmer would have also got an additional compensation for the loss of cotton he had sown, he said. "He was told that the government has decided to provide compensation for cotton as well. The administration did everything it could to help him," Khadse said.

However, Munde claimed that the government paid compensation only after the farmer tried to commit suicide.

Later, Council Chairman Ramraje Nimbalkar said he would himself enquire into the charges levelled by Munde.

PTI
Pune: JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar on Monday accepted an invitation extended by a students' group in the

city to take part in a discussion in Pune.

He also expressed solidarity with the students and called RSS and its affiliates as "anti-constitutional".

Speaking to media over the phone during a press conference organised by All India Students Federation and other organisations in Pune, Kumar assured the students from Ranade Institute (Pune University's journalism college), Fergusson College and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) that he will go to any city where students'

rights were being suppressed and will stand by them.

"I express my solidarity and support for students community who have been fighting in Pune," he said during his brief phone conversation with reporters in Pune.

The situation in the country is very serious as the government is trying to snatch away the rights and freedom of students, he said.

"We have to get united against forces like RSS, ABVP and Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) to safeguard the democratic values and Constitution. ABVP, BJYM are the sections of RSS and are anti-Constitutional and against the judicial system, and trying to suppress students' voice in India," he said.

After the fracas at Fergusson College here during an ABVP-organised discussion on 'Truth of JNU', wherein a BJYM

leader allegedly threatened the students of Ranade Institute that they would be thrashed if they invited Kumar, students from these two institutes and those from FTII came together and formed a joint forum to invite Kumar here.

Dates of Kumar's visit would be soon decided, local AISF members said.

PTI
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Belgium on Wednesday, during which he will also attend the India-EU summit, is widely anticipated as the talks are expected to surround the terror attacks in Brussels which occurred on 22 March.

Prime Minister Modi will visit Belgium, the US and Saudi Arabia during his five-day three-nation tour beginning on 30 March.

"The recent attacks in Belgium will be the starting point of the prime minister's engagement in Brussels," a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official said during a briefing ahead of the visit.

The 22 March terror attacks in Brussels, on Zaventem airport and the Maalbeek Metro station, claimed over 30 lives and left at least 270 people injured.

In Brussels, Modi will hold bilateral talks with the Belgian leadership and also attend the 13th India-EU summit. The last India-EU summit was held in 2012.

Modi will later travel to Washington, D.C., for the Nuclear Security Summit where he is likely to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

The external affairs ministry spokesperson, however, declined to say if Modi and Sharif would meet in Washington.

I'm sure that the prime minister would have some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit, MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Many of the meetings are a work in progress. It will depend on the schedules of the two leaders, he added.

IANS
Over 300 academicians, activists, artists and writers published a statement condemning the state violence and unlawful detention at UoH.

"We have followed, with deep concern, similar violent attacks and undemocratic crackdown on students on the campuses of Jawaharlal Nehru University, the Film and Television Institute of India, the University of Allahabad, Jadavpur University, Burdwan University, and others across the country. That the highest administrative authorities in the university have allowed the silencing of debate and dissent is unfortunate," they wrote.

The statement has been signed by the likes of Noam Chomsky, Emeritus professor in Linguistics at MIT. The statement has been issued in the light of the recent police brutality faced by students in the University of Hyderabad, after Dr Appa Rao Podile returned to the university after being on a two-month-long leave.

According to this earlier detailed Firstpost report, students of the university protested outside Rao's lodge in campus. Some students were dragged outside the premises and a few among the group then threw stones at the police bandobast.

300 Academicians- International Solidarity Statement

Another letter was also addressed to the Chancellor, University of Hyderabad, Dr Rangarajan by 161 professors from universities across the world, including Ashoke Sen, who was awarded the 2012 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics. It is stated in the letter that considering that there is a judicial enquiry on Podile, it is "utterly inappropriate for him to occupy the office of the Vice Chancellor of the University."

The letter condemned the presence of police in a campus university:

"A troubling feature of the events at the University is the frequent reliance of the administration of the University on the police apparatus. We feel that the police have no place in an academic campus, and should be called upon only in rare circumstances"

Letter Final

Arun Kumar Patnaik (JNU alumna) and currently a professor at the University of Hyderabad in the department of Political Science wrote on a Facebook group that the VC's presence on campus "muddies the waters" and that "he should step aside for a dialogue to be created". He urged the students to set aside their egos.
India's ambassador to Belgium on Monday confirmed that Infosys employee Raghavendran Ganeshan, who went missing since the 22 March terror attacks in Brussels, was found dead. His body was found by Belgian authorities in the metro train at Molenbeek station where one of the bombs went off, reports said. His mortal remains are being brought back to India by his family.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over a memorial service for Ganeshan and other victims of the blasts in Brussels, reports The Times of India.

Modi had tweeted:

A young life, full of hope & promise cut short by mindless violence... condolences to family of Raghavendran, who lost his life in Brussels.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 29, 2016

"What we dreaded the most has unfortunately come true. Belgian authorities informed the Indian embassy that Raghavendran Ganeshan was identified among the dead today. The body will be transported back to India via Amsterdam later on Monday evening. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family," NDTV quoted the Indian Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU, Manjeev Singh Puri, as saying.

The mortal remains were handed over to Raghavendran's family  younger brother Chandrasekar and parents Annapoorni and Ganesan C  who are in Brussels, The Times of India reported. The body was at Belgium's military hospital and is being brought to India from Amsterdam, the report further added.

The Indian Embassy in Brussels and the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi confirmed the death of Raghavendran Ganeshan in the 22 March assault on the Belgian capital.

"The Belgian authorities have identified Raghavendran as one of the victims of the barbaric terror attacks of March 22," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

He said Ganeshan was a victim of the blast that took place in the metro at Molenbeek station in Brussels.

Swarup said, "If they are able to make it, the body accompanied by family, would be on flight from Amsterdam to Chennai via the Gulf tonight or tomorrow morning with Jet (airline) to India."

RIP Raghvendran!The Belgian authorities hv identified Raghvendran as 1 of d victims f barbarian terror attacks of March 22.@SushmaSwaraj 1/2

 India in Belgium (@IndEmbassyBru) March 28, 2016

Mortal remains r in process of being handed2family f Raghvendran to be taken 2 India from Amsterdam airport.@gauravcsawant @aditi_tyagi  India in Belgium (@IndEmbassyBru) March 28, 2016

I am deeply pained to inform that Brussels authorities hv identified Raghavendran as one of the victims of terror blasts in Brussels. /1  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) March 28, 2016

His mortal remains are being handed over to the family in Brussels./2  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) March 28, 2016

Unfortunately, he was travelling in the same coach of the metro in which the suicide bomber blew himself up. /3  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) March 28, 2016

My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family./4  Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) March 28, 2016

Two days after the attack, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had said Ganeshan's last phone call was tracked to the Brussels metro rail. It was also learnt that Ganeshan spoke to his mother in India an hour before the blasts ripped the Brussels airport and the metro rail station.

"It is with deep regret that we confirm the passing of our colleague Raghavendran Ganeshan in the terrible attack in Brussels. Our thoughts and prayers are with Raghavendran's family and with those who were injured or lost a loved one in these attacks.

"We will continue to provide all possible support to his family in this hour of grief. We would request the privacy of Raghavendran's family during this difficult time," an Infosys spokesperson said.

Infosys thanked the Belgian and Indian authorities for their support over the past few days. Ganeshan hailed from Bengaluru.

At least 31 people were killed and hundred others were injured in a series of apparently coordinated explosions ripped through Brussels airport and a city metro station on 22 March.

With inputs from agencies
Jerusalem: Israel has issued a new travel advisory for Turkey, warning its citizens to leave the country as soon as possible and avoid any traveling there.

The "high concrete threat" is the second-highest warning level that Israel can issue. It raises the directive issued after three Israeli tourists were killed in an Istanbul suicide bombing earlier in March.

The National Security Council advised on Monday that "the risk of additional attacks from terrorist organizations is rising, with an emphasis on the Islamic State, on tourist destinations and in general Israeli tourists."

Israel has the same level warning as Turkey for Tunisia, Afghanistan and Pakistan. It has given the highest warning levels for Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, Somalia, Sudan and Libya.

Israelis are banned from traveling to Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Iran.

AP
Brussels: The sole suspect charged over last week's Brussels attacks was released on Monday following a lack of evidence linking him to the carnage, Belgian prosecutors said.

"The indications that led to the arrest of Faycal Cheffou were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry. As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate," the federal prosecutor's office said in a statement, without giving further details.

Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou who claimed to be a freelance journalist.

Cheffou was charged on Saturday with "taking part in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist

murder".

A source close to the inquiry had previously said that prosecutors were looking into the theory that he was the third man seen in CCTV footage alongside two suicide bombers at Zaventem airport.

Belgian police earlier on Monday released some of the CCTV images in a bid to identify the suspect.

In the video, a man in a hat and white jacket is seen pushing a trolley with a large bag through the departure hall next to bombers Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.

AFP
Lahore: A suicide bomber who attacked a park thronging with families celebrating Easter killed at least 72 people in Pakistan, with children among the dead.

More than 200 people were hurt when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied.

Witnesses described children screaming as people carried the injured in their arms, while frantic relatives searched for loved ones.

"We had gone to the park to enjoy the Easter holiday. There was a blast suddenly, I saw a huge ball of fire and four to six people of my family are injured. Two of them critical," 53-year-old Arif Gill told AFP.

"This is not an attack against Christians, everybody is victim, there are many Muslims among the victims, everybody goes to the park to enjoy," he added. "This is an attack against everybody."

Javed Ali, a 35-year-old who lives opposite the park near the centre of the city, said the force of Sunday's blast shattered the windows of his home.

"After 10 minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances," he said.

Many wounded children were taken to Lahore's Jinnah Hospital Monday, some clearly in pain as doctors examined injuries to their legs, arms and faces.

Doctors had described frenzied scenes at hospitals in the immediate aftermath of the attack, with staff treating casualties on floors and in corridors, as officials tweeted calls for blood donations.

Senior police official Haider Ashraf put the toll at 72 Monday, saying at least eight children were among the dead.

"Christians were not the specific target of this attack because the majority of the dead are Muslims," he said. "Everybody goes to this park."

Lahore's top administration official Muhammad Usman said 233 were wounded. Late Sunday rescue officials had put the number of injured at more than 300.

Earlier, Usman said the bomber "blew himself up near the kids' playing area where kids were on the swings".

Schools and other government institutions were open, but three days of mourning have been announced in Punjab province, of which Lahore is the capital, said commissioner Abdullah Sumbal.

'Hour of grief'

The Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for a suicide attack that killed 72 people at a popular park in Lahore on Easter Sunday, saying it had targeted Christians.

"We carried out the Lahore attack as Christians are our target," Ehsanullah Ehsan, spokesman for Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, told AFP by telephone on Monday, adding that the group would carry out more attacks in the future, including on schools and colleges.

A military spokesman said intelligence agencies were chasing all leads.

Facebook activated its safety check system after the blast, so people could tell friends and relatives they were safe, but a glitch meant notifications were sent to people all over the world.

The company later apologised, but some users said the error meant news of the attack spread more quickly than it might otherwise have done.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed his "grief and sorrow over the sad demise of innocent lives".

His Indian counterpart Narendra Modi telephoned to say "the people of India stand with their Pakistani brethren in this hour of grief," state media reported.

Powerful military chief General Raheel Sharif vowed to bring those responsible to justice and said he "will never allow these savage inhumans to over run our life and liberty", according to a military spokesman.

The US labelled the incident "cowardly", while Pakistan's Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai tweeted: "Pakistan and the world must unite. Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

'Fanatical violence'

The Vatican condemned the attack, calling it "fanatical violence against Christian minorities," and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called for Islamabad to protect religious minorities.

Christians make up an estimated 1.6 percent of the Pakistan's 200 million people, the vast majority of which are Muslim, and have long faced discrimination.

Twin suicide attacks against churches in Lahore killed 17 people in March last year, sparking two days of rioting by thousands of Christians.

Attacks targeting children have a special resonance in Pakistan, still scarred by a Taliban assault in Peshawar in 2014 that killed 150 people, mostly children.

A military operation targeting insurgents was stepped up in response, and last year the death toll from militant attacks fell to its lowest since the Pakistani Taliban were formed in 2007.

 1994-2016 Agence France-Presse

Modi tweeted from his PMO India account:

Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased & prayers with the injured: PM  PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 27, 2016

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf leader Imran Khan strongly condemned the blast. "Strongly condemn the terror attack in Lahore in which our innocent citizens including women & children lost their lives."

The US condemned as "cowardly" the suicide attack, vowing to work with Pakistan to defeat those sowing terror in the country.

"The United States condemns in the strongest terms today's appalling terrorist attack in Lahore, Pakistan," National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said in a White House statement.

British Prime Minister David Cameron also expressed shock over the deadly attack and expressed his desire to give all possible support in the hour of grief.

Cameron tweeted:

I'm shocked by the terrorist attack in Lahore. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims. We will do what we can to help.  David Cameron (@David_Cameron) March 27, 2016

Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation of 190 million people, is plagued by a Taliban insurgency, criminal gangs and sectarian violence. Punjab is its biggest and wealthiest province but has traditionally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan.

with inputs from AFP
Islamabad: A day after a powerful blast ripped through a public park in Lahore city killing over 70 people, Pakistani security forces on Monday launched an operation against militants, the media reported.

The operation was initiated following an order from Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif. The decision to launch the operation was taken at a high level military meeting attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, The Nation reported.

According to sources, intelligence agencies, Pakistan Rangers and the army conducted five operations on Sunday night in Multan, Faisalabad and Sialkot.

The security forces arrested a number of militants and facilitators, sources said.

The attack at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park of Lahore city, the capital of Punjab province, left at least 72 people dead, mostly women and children, and more than 250 injured.

A Pakistani Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the group deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.

Sunday's suicide bombing was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the 16 December, 2014 Army Public School massacre, which killed at least 134 school children prompting a government crackdown on Islamist militancy, and the launch of the National Action Plan (NAP).

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a tweet.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the 11 September, 2001, attacks by the Al-Qaeda in the US.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of militants under the crackdown launched after the 2014 APS attack.

Pakistan's security agencies have long been accused of nurturing militants to be used against Afghanistan and India.

But some groups, such as the Pakistani Taliban, have now turned against the state.

IANS
Islamabad: Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has cancelled his visit to Britain following the deadly Easter Sunday suicide attack in a Lahore city park that left at least 70 people killed and over 250 injured.

According to a spokesman at the Prime Minister's Secretariat, Sharif was scheduled to leave for Britain on Monday but he cancelled his trip after the blast at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, where Christians were celebrating Easter on Sunday evening.

Sharif was to go to London for a meeting with his British counterpart David Cameron, and then onwards to the US for the Nuclear Security Summit, 2016. He will now travel directly to the US after a couple of days, according to the News International.

The spokesman also said that Sharif held detailed deliberations at a high-level meeting, which reviewed the security situation in Pakistan. The meeting lasted for several hours and was attended by interior minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and officials.

The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.

During the high-level meeting in Islamabad late on Sunday night, Sharif said terrorists and their facilitators involved in the attack would be taken to task at all costs, Radio Pakistan reported on Monday.

Saying that his heart bleeds as the terrorists had targeted his sons, daughters, brothers and sisters, Sharif said the terrorists were committing "cowardly acts after facing defeat". The prime minister stressed the need for strengthening national unity and burying differences to confront terrorism with strong resolve.

The meeting, attended by Nisar Ali Khan and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar among others, took several important decisions in the wake of Lahore incident, the media report said.

IANS
Damascus: Syria's antiquities chief said on Monday that his department would need five years to restore the ancient ruins of Palmyra damaged by the Islamic State jihadist group.

"If we have UNESCO's approval, we will need five years to restore the structures damaged or destroyed by IS," Maamoun Abdulkarim told AFP.

"We have the qualified staff, the knowledge and the research. With UNESCO's approval, we can start the work in a year's time."

Abdulkarim's remarks came after the Russian-backed Syrian army ousted IS from Palmyra on Sunday in the climax of a three-week offensive.

"Eighty percent of the ruins are in good shape," he said.

"My expert colleagues arrive today in Palmyra. I have asked them to assess the stones and the old city. They are taking pictures of the damage and documenting everything, and then the restoration can begin."

IS overran Palmyra in May last year, sparking global concern for the city's spectacular ancient ruins.

The jihadists used Palmyra's ancient amphitheatre as a venue for public executions and also murdered the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief, Khaled al-Assaad.

They also destroyed the shrine of Baal Shamin.

In September, they demolished the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel, a gem of Classical architecture, and a month later blew up the Arch of Triumph, dating from around 200 AD.

They then destroyed a dozen of the city's best preserved tower tombs.

AFP
A passenger plane captain kept flying without alerting Auckland air traffic controllers even after smashing into seven runway lights, sending debris flying.

The Chilean LAN Airlines captain lost his bearings taking off from Auckland before correcting himself, an investigation has found.

A Chilean LAN Airlines Airbus A340 wrecked seven elevated runway lights after a wayward take-off. Credit:AERO ICARUS/FLICKR/WIKIMEDIA

The lights, standing some 30cm off the ground, were wrecked when the Airbus A340 carrying 196 passengers took off from Auckland in May 2013.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) published its final report about the rare "runway excursion" nearly three years later.
I can't think why, but Easter always reminds me of Christianity. Not, of course, that Christianity has anything to do with the grubby, materialist world of economics. Or does it?

Australia is the most unbelieving it has ever been, with the most recent census saying that only 61 per cent people identify themselves as even nominally Christian.

The church has had strong influences over our modern economy. Credit:Michael Mucci

Twenty-two per cent say they have no religion and another 9 per cent didn't bother answering the question. People of non-Christian religions account for 7 per cent of the population.

Separate figures say only about 8 per cent of Australians attend religious services regularly. This is about the same as in Britain and France, but a lot less than in Canada or the United States.
Donald Trump's comments are likely to alarm both China and US allies in Asia who fear China. Credit:Edgar Su "It's very fake, ambiguous, in terms of since when, since what year does it become historical, traditional?" Indonesia joined the lengthening list of Asian states angry and anxious about China's assertiveness. A senior member of the Indonesian Cabinet, Coordinating Minister for Politics, Legal and Security Affairs Luhut Pandjaitan, said that his country would respond by sending more troops and better patrol boats to its naval base in the Natuna Sea. And on Monday, Japan officially fired up its latest radar station, part of Tokyo's stepped-up efforts to respond to China's assertiveness in the East China Sea.

Unfortunately, the US under Barack Obama spent more than a year in frozen immobility as China plunged into a frenetic program of base-building on disputed islands in the South China Sea. The islands are also claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan and others. The US finally stirred into action in the last few months. America, like Australia, makes no claims and takes no sides in the disputes, but urges all sides to avoid any destabilising steps. The US has, however, moved to reassure its regional allies that it stands firm in supporting them. Two weeks ago, for instance, it signed an agreement to rotate US forces through five Philippines military bases, a deal that the American ambassador to Manila described as "a pretty big deal". China's official newsagency, Xinhua, responded by accusing the US of "making the Asia-Pacific into a second Middle East".

Into this tense and difficult situation crashed the leading Republican candidate for the US presidency. Donald Trump told the New York Times that, as president, he would "perhaps" lay claim to one of the disputed islands of the South China Sea for the US. This is idiotic and potentially incendiary in one of the world's most flammable strategic tinder boxes. The US would be transformed instantaneously from being the guarantor of stability to being a great force for instability. It would be tantamount to an American declaration of hostilities against China, in return for nothing it actually wants. Simultaneously, it would insult the sovereign claims of US friends and allies who also claim the same islands.

And there was more. Trump said that he would start withdrawing US forces from the two biggest US bases in Asia, those in Japan and South Korea, unless those countries paid more towards the cost of the bases. "I would not do so happily, but I would be willing to do it," he said, without acknowledging that Tokyo already pays most of the costs of the American bases on its soil and South Korea more than a third. And if Japan, feeling exposed without reliable US backing, decided that it needed to go nuclear as a result? "I'm not sure that would be a bad thing for us," Trump said. The US was "basically protecting Japan" he said, and "at some point we cannot be the policemen of the world." "We're a country that doesn't have money," he said, striking one of his favourite themes.

"We were a rich country with a very strong military and tremendous capability in so many ways. We're not anymore. We have a military that's severely depleted. We have nuclear arsenals which are in very terrible shape. They don't even know if they work." The prospect of a nuclear Japan is deeply alarming for countries including China. Trump could be president. He's likely to be the Republican candidate and, according to the US betting markets, he has about a 40 per cent chance of winning the presidency. Hillary Clinton, the likely Democratic candidate, is rated a better chance at 60 per cent. Even so, it's unsettling for the Asia-Pacific, the Indo-Pacific and the wider world for one of the leading US candidates to speak so blithely, so erratically, so carelessly about ripping up some of the deepest security foundations of the modern world.

In Beijing, Trump's ideas play into the hands of military hawks. If a future US president could so upend the remaining structures for stability in the region, then the rational response is to prepare for a much more unstable situation. And that's a case for even more Chinese armaments and an even more assertive posture. And in the capitals of US friends and allies, Trump's musings will strengthen the hand of those arguing that the US is an increasingly unreliable ally. And that means these countries are more likely to accelerate their own arms build ups, or more likely to prepare to yield to China's demands. Either way, it's a recipe for destabilisation and danger. Even if he never sets foot in the Oval Office, Trump is a danger to the stability of Australia and the entire region.
Olympic champion Michael Klim announced his separation from wife Lindy last month. The 38-year-old has now said he wants her to be 'happy' and has spoken about them both moving on with other people.

"I am sure we will move on and we will be dating other people," Klim told The Daily Telegraph.

Moving on: Michael Klim.

"Ultimately, I have respect for Lindy.

"I want her to be happy and if that means her being with someone, that's great, and I'm sure it's vice versa."
Motorists heading home from their Easter long weekend faced "significant delays" with queues of up to 18 kilometres in the early evening on arterial routes throughout NSW from the mountains to the coast.

Northbound traffic on the Princes Highway was banked up at several choke points throughout the afternoon.

Motorists at Albion Park Rail are still queued for 5.5 kilometres, adding an extra 15 minutes travel time, while delays have eased at Nowra and Berry.

In the Southern Tablelands, westbound traffic on the Kings Highway at Braidwood had stretched for 18 kilometres at its worst, adding an extra 60 minutes to travel times, but has since eased to a 1.5 kilometre queue.
The national president of the Nomads outlaw motorcycle gang has been arrested and charged in relation to a luxury car fraud.

Sleiman "Simon" Tajjour was arrested on March 18 after a nine-month investigation into $2 million of home and car purchases by Nomads members.

Police have targeted the Nomads gang in a nine-month fraud investigation. Credit:Darren Pateman

Mr Tajjour, 35, was pulled over in Merrylands on January 28 driving a Mercedes Benz with no number plates.

Police said the car had been sold in Queensland without the owner's consent.
A senior police officer has been injured after being hit over the head with a stick during an 80-person brawl in Sydney's west.

It is believed the brawl broke out on Lethbridge and Colless streets in Penrith on Sunday night after a number of gatecrashers tried to get into a party.

Police say that, when they arrived about 10.30pm, they found up to 80 people in the street, many of whom were punching and kicking each other.

As a female inspector tried to arrest a man, she was allegedly hit on the head with a stick.
China's Anbang Insurance Group renewed its fight Monday for control of a large U.S. hotel company, increasing its offer for Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Anbang, engaging Marriott International, the biggest U.S. hotel company, in a bidding war, offered $14 billion for Starwood, which controls 1,300 properties in 100 countries.

Starwood, which operates the St. Regis, Westin and Sheraton hotel brands among others, said the Anbang offer was "reasonably likely" a "superior proposal" that topped Marriott's $13.6 billion offer of a week ago.

But Starwood's board did not immediately change its recommendation to support its merger with Marriott, which would create the world's biggest hotel company with 1.1 million rooms. The Starwood board said it would consider the offers over the coming days.

Beijing-based Anbang already owns one major U.S. hotel, the Waldorf Astoria in New York.
Pakistani officials say a suicide bomb blast at a crowded public park in the eastern city of Lahore Sunday evening killed at least 65 people and wounded at least 300 others.

Women and children are among the victims, said Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the government of Punjab province. He said there were seriously wounded people among those taken to local hospitals.



Witnesses say a large number of Christian families celebrating Easter also were present in the Gulshan Iqbal park when the explosion occurred.

A spokesman for a breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban (Jamaatul Aurar) claimed responsibility for the bombing and said it specifically targeted Christians.

Less than two percent of Pakistan's population is Christian.

A spokesman for U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Ban has called for "the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice." He said the secretary-general has urged Pakistan "to do its utmost to put in place protective measures to ensure the personal security of all individuals, including religious minority communities living in the country."

The United States condemned "in the strongest terms" the attack in Lahore, calling it a "cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park," a statement from National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said.

Watch: Protests in Islamabad Over Execution of Mumtaz Qadri

Islamabad protests

Meanwhile in Islamabad, thousands of Pakistanis marched through the streets of the capital city Sunday to protest last months hanging of a man charged with murdering a provincial governor.



The protesters, mostly activists of Islamic parties, rallied against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri who gunned down Punjab's governor, Salman Taseer, in 2011 because the slain politician had called for reforms in the countrys Islamic law against blasphemy.

Police used blockades and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd but failed to do so and the protesters were trying to reach to the parliament building. Several security personnel are reported wounded in clashes with demonstrators.

Protesters set fire to several vehicles, containers and terminals of a public transport bus service linking Islamabad with the neighboring Rawalpindi city. Witnesses say police personnel were running out of tear gas and rubber bullets in their bid to disperse the crowed, prompting the government to call in the the military late on Sunday to help in controlling the situation.

Army spokesman Lt. General Asim Bajwa said troops have also been deployed to secure the so-called Red Zone in Islamabad where parliament, the supreme court and other key government buildings as well as diplomatic missions are located.
The United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) and World Health Organization (WHO), in a new report, warn Southeast Asia faces a child nutrition crisis amid increasing numbers of under nourished and obese children despite decades of economic growth. The agencies are calling for greater regulation of junk food and limiting sugary drinks for children, as well as tackling malnutrition that has resulted in chronic levels of stunted children living in poverty.

The joint UNICEF and WHO report, released Monday, says Southeast Asia is facing mounting health costs as a result of child malnutrition and obesity  a double burden  increasingly apparent in the middle income countries of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

The report says in Indonesia alone child malnutrition undermines child development, leading to non-communicable diseases at an annual cost of $248 billion a year.

Children's food problems are increasing

Dorothy Foote, a UNICEF regional nutritional specialist, called the problems a burgeoning crisis covering both child nutrition and levels of nutrition in general.

At UNICEF we are particularly concerned about children but in general we do have a crisis. Thats going to affect not only families and communities but also governments and societies, that the costs of the double burden are tremendous, Foote told VOA.

The reports surveys found an almost equal percentage in most countries of overweight and under nourished children.

In Indonesia, 12 percent of children are overweight, with the same percentage of children malnourished. In Thailand, the report says the trends are increasing with under nutrition affecting seven percent of children while 11 percent of children are overweight.

Foote said there is still a tremendous burden of under nutrition, both chronic and acute. Levels of stunting among children are especially serious. Laos faces the highest proportion of stunted children at 44 percent, with high rates also reported in Cambodia, Myanmar, the Philippines and Indonesia.

The report says that around three quarters, or 12 million of the 17 million stunted children in Southeast Asia, live in Indonesia and the Philippines.

Foote said children are not receiving adequate food and that is affecting both height and internal development. At the same time the region is facing skyrocketing levels of overweight children.

Report blames junk food

The main reason for the food problems, the report says, lies in greater access to junk processed foods and drinks with high trans-fat or sugar content and low nutritional value. The report also cites physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles.

The trends come despite years of development, with the region seen as a key economic driver for the world economy. But while overall growth figures have been positive, there has been a growing gap between the rich and poor leading to a widening in income disparities.

Foote said this impact is evident in nutrition across the region. What we see is that the knowledge about what is needed for healthy child growth and what is normal in healthy child growth is still very low in the general population and even decision makers and leaders, she said.

Economic growth has led to greater market reach of unhealthy products into rural areas, as well as poor and middle class families, able to afford the products but without making the the right choices to use healthier foods instead.

The result is were seeing poor feeding practices, particularly for children under two years old, resulting in persisting high levels of malnutrition but also growing levels of obesity and overweight, Foote said.

Report advocates government regulation of food marketing

The UNICEF/WHO report says governments need to increasingly regulate the marketing of junk food and sugary drinks to children and restricting such foods availability in schools.

Child malnutrition has also been linked to mothers who stop breast feeding and substituting with infant formula, but often in situations where the water used to mix with the powder is unclean.

The report also calls on governments to improve feeding practices for infants and young children, provide treatment for acutely malnourished children, increase agricultural varieties and hygiene practices as well as ensuring girls remain in school. And the report wants governments to continue to take steps to reduce overall poverty levels.
Pakistans Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has vowed to intensify counterterrorism operations in the wake of Sundays deadly suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore targeting Christians. At least 72 people, including about 30 children, were killed and 300 others were wounded in the blast at a crowded park.

I know terrorists are attacking soft targets like public places and parks, killing innocent citizens in desperation because security forces have deprived them of their hideouts, training facilities and terrorist infrastructure, Nawaz Sharif said in a televised address Monday, vowing the mission to wipe out "these terrorists" will not be deterred by such attacks.

A military spokesman said Monday that security agencies have conducted several operations based on initial leads and arrested a number of suspect terrorists and facilitators from areas in the provincial capital and two other cities (Multan and Faisalabad) of Punjab, the countrys most populous province. He shared no other details.

A spokesman for a breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban (Jamaatul Ahrar) claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing, saying it was aimed at Christians.

Sharif visits Lahore

Prime Minister Sharif visited Lahore on Monday morning, where he chaired a meeting of top civilian and security officials. The prime minister also visited hospitals where victims are being treated.

Later, the foreign ministry said Sharif was canceling his planned trip to Washington this week to attend a nuclear security summit due to the Lahore attack.

"He [Sharif] underscored that such incidents further strengthen the governments resolve to eradicate the menace of terrorism from its roots," a foreign ministry statement said.

It said the Pakistani delegation to the Washington summit will now be led by the Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Syed Tariq Fatemi.

Eyewitness accounts

Witnesses speaking to reporters Monday recounted how the blast rocked the park.

Ikram Arif said he was parking his motorcycle and was about to enter the park with a friend when they suddenly heard the sound of an explosion from inside.

"We rushed inside and saw bodies with blown-up heads and legs. Many injured people, men, women and children were lying there," he said, adding the first injured person he picked up was an infant around 6 months old.

Eyewitness Mohammad Arshad criticized authorities for not ensuring proper security in and outside the park.

"It was a very loud explosion, and moments later we saw a pool of blood with bodies and injured lying here and there. There was no proper security arrangement here," he added.

International condemnation

The United States condemned "in the strongest terms" the attack in Lahore. White House spokesman John Earnest said the attack was "grotesque, and the fact that you have an extremist organization targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage."

He said even though the attack targeted Christians, "the fact of the matter is that based on the names that we're seeing now, the majority of the victims were actually Muslims."

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also released a statement strongly condemning the bombing and calling for "the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice, consistent with human rights obligations."

He urged the Pakistani government to do its utmost to put in place protective measures to ensure the personal security of all individuals, including religious minority communities living in the country.

Authorities have increased security in parks and other public locations across Pakistan following the Lahore carnage.

Islamabad protest

Meanwhile, several hundred Islamist activists were still staging a protest Monday morning near the parliament in Islamabad, and refusing to disperse until their demands were met.

PHOTOS: Pakistan mourns Easter suicide bombing victims

Photo Gallery: Pakistan Mourns Easter Suicide Bombing Victims Pakistan is mourning the victims of Easter Sunday's deadly suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore which targeted Christians. At least 72 people were killed including 30 children and 300 others were wounded. Share on Facebook

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Thousands of demonstrators had marched on the capital city late Sunday evening to protest the hanging of a man charged with murdering a provincial governor because he had called for reforming the country's Islamic laws against blasphemy.

The protesters, mostly activists of Islamic parties, rallied against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who gunned down Punjab's governor, Salman Taseer, in 2011 because the slain politician had called for blasphemy law reforms.

The demonstrators clashed with police and paramilitary forces while setting fire to private and government buildings.

The clashes wounded more than two dozen security personnel, prompting the government to deploy troops to protect the so-called Red Zone in Islamabad where mostly key official buildings, including parliament and foreign diplomatic missions, are located.

The protesters were demanding, among other things, assurances that the government will not change the blasphemy laws. However, the deployment of troops acted as a deterrent and most of the crowd dispersed in the middle of the night.



WATCH: Video footage from scene of attack in Lahore
Donald Trump, the front-running U.S. presidential candidate for the Republican Party, is not winning a lot of friends among Americas key allies in Asia after criticizing their contributions to regional security and suggesting they develop their own nuclear arsenals.

In an interview with The New York Times, the Republican front-runner called for a complete reassessment of longstanding U.S. security pacts with Japan and South Korea.

Trump has in the past criticized both Asian allies as free-riders for paying Washington too little for contributing 50,000 American troops in Japan and 28,500 in South Korea to maintain peace and security.

Saying the U.S. cannot afford to be losing vast amounts of billions of dollars to support peace and security in the region, Trump told the newspaper he would also consider withdrawing troops if Tokyo and Seoul did not agree to increase security reimbursements to Washington.

Trump said he would be open to allowing Japan and South Korea to build nuclear weapons to defend themselves against potential nuclear threats from North Korea and China, adding, if the United States keeps on its path, its current path of weakness, theyre going to want to have that anyway.

Trumps position has drawn harsh rebukes from officials and analysts who say such radical changes would greatly undermine U.S. credibility and alliances in the region, would likely lead to a nuclear arms race in Asia and would undercut international efforts to pressure North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons.

It would be extremely damaging and plays right into the hands of the hardliners in Pyongyang, said Daniel Pinkston, a lecturer in international relations with Troy University in Seoul.

Negative reactions

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga on Monday rejected any suggestion that Japan might develop its own nuclear arsenal, saying, The three non-nuclear principles of not producing, possessing or allowing nuclear weapons on Japanese territory are an important basic policy of the government.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abes government, however, has been working to expand the countrys defense posture, and Trumps comments about withdrawing from Asia could reinforce the need for a stronger Japanese military.

South Korean Defense Ministry spokesman Moon Sang-kyun said Monday it would be inappropriate to comment on U.S. presidential candidates other than to say the Republic of Korea (ROK) supports the security arrangements that have been in place with Washington since the Korean War in the 1950s.

That alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United States is firmly being maintained by the ROK-U.S. Mutual Defense Agreement. There is no change in this position and principle, he said.

After North Korea conducted its fourth nuclear test in January, some lawmakers in Seoul called for the development of a South Korean nuclear deterrent as well.

The President Park Geun-hye government, however, has rejected the need for nuclear weapons, relying instead on the protection of the U.S. nuclear deterrent guaranteed under its security alliance with Washington.

US security interests

The Republican presidential candidate said he is not an isolationist, but wants to put the interests of America first.

Critics say the successful businessman and author of the book The Art of the Deal is not considering how U.S. economic and strategic interests have benefited from the American military presence in Asia.

Nor they say has he considered how a U.S. withdrawal and nuclear arms race would damage American interests, alliances and increase the potential for nuclear conflict.

If you think ahead a couple of moves and you think of the consequences of such an action it really doesnt make any sense, Pinkston said.

Some South Korean newspapers have called Trump's comments dangerous and shocking.

The South Korean English-language newspaper JoongAng Daily on Monday ran a strongly worded editorial criticizing Trump, calling his views myopic and utterly short-sighted.

Japans Yomiuri Shimbun daily quoted an unnamed source saying, "If he becomes the U.S. president, it would be a problem for the Japan-U.S. national security system."
For decades, the benefits of free trade have been something that both political parties have agreed on. Eliminating tariffs, proponents said, would reduce the cost of goods for U.S. consumers and put more people to work in exporting industries.

Recently, though, some economists have concluded that the costs of free trade have been greater than expected, and both Democratic candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders and Republican Donald Trump have run successful presidential primary campaigns on protectionist platforms. Many of their supporters are now rejecting more than half a century of bipartisan economic consensus.

Outside of Sanders and Trumps coalitions, however, there is little evidence of a broad reaction against free trade. Americans are deeply conflicted about the issue, as shown in two recent polls that came to opposite conclusions about public opinion on free trade.

One was a Gallup poll published last month, which found that a majority of Americans  58 percent  see foreign trade as an economic opportunity. Just 33 percent said foreign trade was an economic threat. The share of respondents who are optimistic about trade has increased since the financial crisis. Perhaps as Americans are seeing the country as more economically secure, theyve become less worried about competition from abroad.

Seven years ago, at the beginning of 2009, just 44 percent of those polled said that trade presented an opportunity. Among Democratswho are more optimistic about the state of the economy under President Obamathe number seeing economic opportunity in trade increased even more sharply, from 43 percent in 2009 to 63 percent today. The figure among Republicans shifted from 45 percent to 50 percent.

That finding  overall optimism about trade, with partisan divisions  contrasted with the conclusion of a poll published Thursday by Bloomberg. Opposition to free trade is a unifying concept even in a deeply divided electorate, the authors wrote.

Some of the Bloomberg polls more striking findings seem to suggest a deep skepticism of international economic exchange. For example, Americans are overwhelmingly resistant to the idea of foreign ownership of factories on U.S. soil. Sixty-eight percent said theyd prefer a domestically owned factory in their communities to a Chinese-owned plant offering twice as many jobs.

Likewise, nearly two-thirds said that there should be more restrictions on imported goods, and 82 percent said theyd be willing to pay a little more for domestically produced goods in order to protect domestic workers from foreign competition.

These contrasting results show that Americans see both sides of the debate over trade. They also suggest that politicians can win over voters by focusing on either the costs or the benefits, Frank Newport, the editor in chief at Gallup, said in an interview.

Americans are very much looking for guidance on complex economic issues, he said. You can shift people one way or the other. Theyre open to argument.

For example, Newport noted, the Bloomberg poll asked about restrictions on imports, but not on exports, which would mean fewer opportunities for U.S. workers. Americans even have different feelings about imports depending on the industry. They are comfortable with the idea of imported electronics but want to protect American agriculture, Gallup has found.

A Pew poll last year revealed even more contradictions. Respondents were more likely to say that free trade had helped their families finances than that free trade had made them worse off. When asked about the economy in general, though, they were more negative. The poll found that Americans were equally divided on the question of whether free trade improved economic growth, and much less likely to say that trade created opportunities for employment than that it reduced wages and put Americans out of work.

Previously, economists had argued that workers displaced because of competition with manufacturers overseas would quickly find work in other sectors. That hasnt happened, wrote economists David Autor, David Dorn and Gordon Hanson in a paper earlier this year. The costs of trade in the labor market have been higher than predicted, and theyve been concentrated in particular sectors and regions of the country.

Those consequences for particular groups arent clearly reflected in the overall polling data. As Newport said, there are some people in both parties who vehemently oppose trade, maybe because they have been affected by globalization themselves. Those are the groups that Trump and Sanders hope will help mobilize their campaigns.

These candidates might be able to win over some voters if they can focus on how competition from imports has negatively affected those workers, Newport said. Jobs, he added, is a magic word.

There are a few words out there that Americans react very strongly to, he said. Theyre willing to sanction almost anything to bring in more jobs.
This appeared in Saturdays Washington Post. After Tuesdays terrorist attacks in Belgium, it took no time for Republican presidential candidates Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas) and Donald Trump to compete over who could be tougher on Muslims. Aside from the usual rhetoric about locking down the borders and halting refugees, Cruz called for law enforcement to patrol and secure Muslim neighborhoods in the United States, which is similar to Trumps earlier calls to surveil or even shut mosques.

Cruzs campaign clarified that he wants authorities to work with Muslim communities to identify and root out extremism, much like the community-based tactics police use to combat gangs. His camp said authorities should partner with non-radical Americans who want to protect their homes. As an example, Cruzs representatives pointed to New York Police Department efforts that they accused Mayor Bill deBlasio (D) of shutting down because of political correctness.

But the New York practices Cruz appears to be citing were not really about partnering with Muslim communities, which is an excellent idea. They were covert and, once they inevitably became public, deeply controversial. They ultimately strained the bonds between the police and Muslim neighborhoods, making them counterproductive at best.

In the years after Sept. 11, 2001, New York police collected and organized a lot of information on New York-area Muslims: mapping where they lived and worshipped, placing undercover officers in bakeries and having them eavesdrop on conversations and, in some cases, infiltrating Muslim student groups. Part of the goal was to have a sense of where to look and whom to ask if counterterrorism authorities got wind of an imminent threat or if police wanted to take the temperature of ethnic communities reacting to big events overseas. Yet New York Police Deputy Commissioner John J. Miller said that, after a while, one major piece of the citys covert efforts became a sort of top-secret Zagats guide, because officers tended to frequent restaurants with the best food. Then there were examples of egregious overreaching, such as the monitoring of Muslim student groups at elite universities.

Once the Associated Press began reporting on various covert police efforts in 2012, many Muslim Americans were outraged; they saw the police singling out and spying on a largely peaceful community of Americans based on nothing more than their religious affiliation. New York City officials determined the police could do much of what they had aimed to do, such as getting to know neighborhoods and taking the communitys temperature without all the cloak and dagger, as Miller put it. This is the decision the police should have made in the first place.

The last thing the government should do is isolate and alienate peaceful U.S. Muslims. Making them feel as if they are a part of a distrusted, fringe population promotes the homegrown radicalization that now poses a threat to European nations, where integration has not occurred. Cruzs campaign warned about isolated Muslim neighborhoods in Europe that have become recruiting grounds for terrorists. This is a significant problem that requires sophisticated responses there and here. Neither Cruz nor Trump has such a plan. Instead, both seem bent on making the problem worse.
Some weeks ago I chatted with several leading Idaho Democrats who supported Hillary Clinton for president. Asked why they preferred the former secretary of state over Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, the core of the answer was that Sanders would be too risky a nominee.

Meaning: Hes viewed as a left-wing extremist, and the socialist label would be death in, at least, Idaho. Clinton, in relative terms, was the more centrist and therefore safer choice. So far as I can tell, this was the prevailing view across most of the Idaho Democratic leadership.

Nationally, the odds favor Clinton winning the nomination over Sanders. But in the light of last weeks caucuses lets revisit the subject of Sanders and Idaho. In those meetings, where turnout busted historical records, Sanders demolished Clinton, with 78 percent of the vote (and he won every county save for the smallish Lewis). And the same day in Utah, which bears some demographic similarity to southern Idaho, Sanders did even better.

Thats not the general electorate, of course, only participants in the Democratic meetings. But their unusually large size (for caucuses) coupled with the overwhelming result surely carries a message.

Many of the caucus meetings were much larger than expected, and many participants waited in long lines  four to five hours in Boise  to participate. The actual process often took more hours still, vastly unlike the normal duck-in-duck-out voting in primary and general elections. (A lot of Democrats have complained about the caucus procedures, which also excluded many who wanted to vote but, for illness, employment or other reasons, could not get to the sites on time.)

Consider too: These were public votes, not secret ballots. When Idaho Republicans cast ballots in their recent primary, no one ever saw who you supported. At the Democratic caucuses, you had to publicly endorse your candidate. If you were going to support that New York-accented Democratic socialist from Vermont, as nearly four out of five Idaho Democrats did, in the face of opposition not only from the majority Republicans in the county all around you but also most of the states Democratic leadership as well, you were doing it as publicly as if youd taken out a display ad in the newspaper. More: You had to look those people in the eye.

That may not be so big a deal in Latah County or Blaine County, or in Boise. But think about those Democrats in Madison County  which has been called, with justification, the most Republican county in the nation  and in Cassia, Franklin, Lemhi, or Payette. The culture in these counties, in nearly all of Idaho, is overwhelmingly conservative and Republican. Local Democrats most typically keep their heads down. But in significant numbers, in support of a candidate labeled as far-left and socialist, they were visible last week.

One astonished Magic Valley woman commented at her caucus, Hey, 140 people in Jerome. I am not alone. What they did took serious fortitude. (As it would if you were a Republican caucusing for, say, Ted Cruz in an overwhelming liberal Democratic locale.)

What does this imply for politics in Idaho and beyond?

Maybe, maybe, that something is changing in Idaho. It may indicate that there are plenty of Democratic sympathizers out there, unorganized (unchurched?) who have little in common with most of the states Democratic establishment. Many Idaho Democrats for years have tried to position themselves not to lose, or at least lose badly, and shaped their message to mesh at least partly with that of the Republicans. Maybe these Democrats out there, and possibly others as well, are signaling now they would be more responsive to something else.

After the caucuses, state Democratic Chair Bert Marley, a superdelegate to the national convention with an unbound vote, said he would vote there for Sanders. That may be a first step to one of the most useful things leading Idaho Democrats could do in the months ahead: Make contact with these super-determined caucus goers, and find out whats motivating them. In many respects these people seem to be the new majority among Democrats in Idaho, and maybe elsewhere.
Syrian forces have claimed that after several weeks of battle, they have taken control of the desert city of Palmyra that they lost to the Islamic State in May 2015.

A military source told AFP that after heavy night fighting on Saturday, the army is in full control of both the ancient and residential neighborhoods of the city.

Kremlin is reported to have played an important role in retaking the city known as the Pearl of the desert with the Russian Center for the Syrian Ceasefire stating that the air force made 40 sorties over the past 24hrs in the area of the settlement of Tadmor near Palmyra killing more than 100 IS militants, destroying four tanks, three artillery pieces, four depots with ammunition and five motor vehicles.

The director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights Rami Abdel Rahman claimed the battle for Palmyra is the heaviest human loss that IS has sustained in a single battle since its creation with at least 400 militants dead.

Analysts said the recapturing of Palmyra has opened up much of Syrias eastern desert, making it easier for regime troops to move on to ISs de facto capital of Raqqa in northern Syria. The extremist group has lost more ground in recent months after it was driven out of the Iraqi cities of Ramadi, Tikrit and the Syrian town of al-Shadadi.

Palmyra is a UNESCO world heritage site but some of its historical structures were destroyed by IS because they are considered to be idolatrous. The famous Arch of Triumph, Temple of Baalshamin and Temple of Baal were all destroyed as well as the ancient fortress of Emir Fakhr-al-Din.

The victory is a major boost but the war still continues.
Hopes to begin production at the Leviathan gas field were shattered after the Supreme Court ruled 4-1 against the stability clause that was part of the agreement reached between the government and two companies namely Texas-based Noble Energy and the Israeli Delek Group.

Prime Minister Netanyahu deplored the ruling as a decision that severely threatens the development of the gas reserves in Israel. Leviathan is estimated to hold 16trillion to 18trillion cubic feet of gas.+

The stability clause stipulates that the two companies will control the majority of Leviathans stakes for a decade beginning from the production period in exchange for reducing its holdings in three other gas fields. Critics of the deal petitioned it to the Supreme Court and the head of the main opposition Labor party Isaac Herzog hailed the ruling as a correct and courageous decision.

Some have claimed that the government gave the companies favorable terms and too much power under the agreement while some Israelis want gas fields to be nationalized because private companies will keep prices high and export much of the output.

The court ruling gave the government a year to amend the agreement or else it will be cancelled but the Prime Minister stated that we will seek other ways to overcome the severe damage that this curious decision has caused the Israeli economy.

The court didnt rule against clause 52 of the Restrictive Trade Practices Law allowing the economy minister to approve a monopoly in case of national security.
Although women are gradually joining the leadership ranks of U.S. academic medical centers, a gap remains. Just 16 percent of deans and 15 percent of department chairs are women, according to a 2014 report by Association of American Medical Colleges. A study published the same year estimated that in academic medicine, women won't hold as many full professorships as men for several decades.

In an attempt to fast-forward that progress, Sabine Girod, MD, DDS, associate professor of surgery, and Hannah Valantine, MD, a former professor of cardiovascular medicine who is now chief officer for scientific workforce diversity at the National Institutes of Health, led a team that tested whether a 20-minute educational intervention could alter the implicit or explicit biases held by 281 faculty members, from 13 clinical departments, at the Stanford School of Medicine.

The intervention, which was led by pre-trained "champions"nine men and four womenwho had been identified as leaders, did change the faculty members' perception of bias. It also changed their implicit biases of female leaders. The findings were reported in Academic Medicine in January. Girod recently shared her thoughts on the research and on female medical leaders with writer Becky Bach.

Q: What are the two main reasons that you believe women remain underrepresented in academic medicine?

Girod: Women are very interested in serving in leadership positions, and they participate in large numbers in the educational opportunities that medical schools and hospitals offer, such as leadership development programs or formal mentorship programs. However, despite this training, they remain underrepresented in mid- and upper-level leadership positions. At the School of Medicine, we currently have only 13 percent of division chiefs who are women, and even fewer are department chairs. This disadvantage then accumulates over time, effectively stunting their careers, because they cannot develop the expected expertise and credentials.

The reason women are not advancing to senior leadership positions is probably multi-factorial, including the fact that many leadership positions are appointed without a formal process. Potential leaders are groomed and usually sponsored by informal leadership networks that too frequently do not include women. In addition, our study suggests that unconscious biases favoring men as leaders may hinder the career advancement of women even if they have the qualification and potential.

Q: What is the difference between implicit and explicit bias?

Girod: Explicit biases are deliberately formed at the conscious level and are easy to self-report. For example, in the context of this study, a person might say that both women and men have the same leadership potential, since it is socially desirable to do so. On the other hand, implicit biases are attitudes held at the unconscious level and are involuntarily formed. These biases are often informed by cues we pick up from our social environments. Even though someone might say women and men have the same leadership potential explicitly, the person may unconsciously associate men with leadership more than women and unknowingly act in ways that impede women in leadership.

Q: What was the most surprising result of this work?

Girod: The most surprising result was that the implicit bias of the participants changed after they heard a 20-minute presentation that summarizes the research literature on implicit bias and provides guidance on how to overcome the undesired effects of implicit bias. Since implicit biases are unconscious, we did not expect to see an effect of this short intervention. Prior research has shown that once you are made aware of your implicit biases, you can actually work to improve upon them. This is clearly what happened among our participants, but we were pleasantly surprised that this process could begin after a mere 20-minute presentation.

Q: How does the presence of female leaders change the environment of medical schools?

Girod: In medical schools, 47 percent of our students and 46 percent of residents are women, and this is only one of the dimensions of diversity. The female students and young physicians are eager to contribute in their chosen field and are looking for role models for successful careers. They do not see enough women in leadership positions to encourage them to persist. Many young women decide not to go into academics or my specific field, surgery, because they are rationally assessing their chances and do see a paucity of women in the leadership. I have this conversation all the time with students and residents. We are losing a large part of the talent pool both at the entry and then again later on when women come to realize they do not have strong opportunities for advancement.

Q: Is bias for male leadership in academic medicine universal? Is it less so in other countries and cultures?

Girod: Bias for male leadership is universal and not only in academic medicine. Our family, friends, co-workers and the media influence our beliefs and biases. Because biases come from the society in which we live, people tend to share the same biases regardless of their gender and age. The culture needs to change to change these attitudes, but we can be aware of them and consciously direct our decisions. This is an important first step.

Explore further Researchers find marked gender differences in scholarly productivity

More information: Sabine Girod et al. Reducing Implicit Gender Leadership Bias in Academic Medicine With an Educational Intervention, Academic Medicine (2016). Journal information: Academic Medicine Sabine Girod et al. Reducing Implicit Gender Leadership Bias in Academic Medicine With an Educational Intervention,(2016). DOI: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000001099
Figure 1. Protective efficacy of the vaccine candidate in guinea pigs.

Okayama University researchers, in collaboration with colleagues in India, have developed inactivated vaccines, a promising candidate for the production and commercialization of a low-cost oral dysentery vaccine for use in developing countries.

Shin-ichi Miyoshi at the Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine and Dentistry and colleagues orally administered a mixture of the six major Shigella serotypes of heat-killed bacteria sample preparations to laboratory animals in order to explore the possibility of inactivated vaccines. The researchers conducted experiments using both passive and active immunization experimental systems and observed protective effects against infections with sufficient immunity-inducing effect.

Furthermore, in tests using human cultured cells, the researchers found no cell toxicity and observed strong production inducing immunity factors such as cytokines. This sample preparation is a promising candidate for an orally administered dysentery vaccine. In the future, using the rhesus monkeys, which are natural hosts of shigella, the researchers plan to study the protective and immunity-inducing effects.

Background and expected outcome

Figure 2. IgG secretion from peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from control or immunized rabbits.

In 2007, the university established the Okayama University India Infection Joint Research Centre to contribute to the control of the many deaths due to diarrhea in India. One of the research projects concerns the development of an inexpensive oral dysentery vaccine, due to the lack of dysentery vaccines for practical use.

Dysentery destroys intestinal tissue, causing severe bleeding with deaths in developing countries such as India, affecting 600,000 people annually. For this reason, the World Health Organization has designated the development of dysentery vaccine to be one of the most urgent research areas. Today, drug-resistant shigella is spreading fast and its treatment and the control of dysentery is becoming increasingly difficult.

The results of this research are expected to lead to the development and commercialization of low-cost dysentery vaccines before the control of dysentery becomes extremely difficult.

Explore further Genomic study of epidemic dysentery reveals how Europe exported a scourge worldwide

More information: Soumik Barman et al. Passive immunity with multi-serotype heat-killed Shigellae in neonatal mice, Microbiology and Immunology (2014). Soumik Barman et al. Passive immunity with multi-serotype heat-killed Shigellae in neonatal mice,(2014). DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12164 Dhrubajyoti Nag et al. Heat killed multi-serotype Shigella immunogens induced humoral immunity and protection against heterologous challenge in rabbit model, Immunobiology (2015). DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2015.07.002
This undated photo provided by Orlando Health shows Linda Papa, MD, MSC, an emergency medicine physician at Orlando Health in Orlando, Fla. New research bolsters evidence that a simple blood test may someday be used to detect concussions and other brain trauma. The study involved patients treated at the trauma center and the results are preliminary, a concussion blood test based on the proteins studied or on biomarkers other researchers are investigating is likely years away from routine use. (Orlando Health via AP)

Researchers at Orlando Health detected evidence of concussions in patients up to 7 days after their injury using a simple blood test, according to a new study published in JAMA Neurology. The discovery could greatly expand the window for diagnosing concussions, especially in patients who experience a delayed onset of symptoms.

"Symptoms of a concussion, or a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury, can be subtle and are often delayed, in many cases by several days," said Linda Papa, MD, MSC, an emergency medicine physician and NIH funded researcher at Orlando Health and lead author of the study. "This could provide doctors with an important tool for simply and accurately diagnosing those patients, particularly children, and making sure they are treated properly."

It's estimated nearly a quarter of a million children are treated in hospitals each year for concussions from playing sports, an average of nearly 700 a day. Almost all concussions in children are diagnosed only by symptoms, which are either observed, like vomiting or loss of balance, or symptoms reported by the child, like blurred vision or headaches. Neither scenario gives doctors and objective way to determine the severity of the injury.

"If patients are not diagnosed properly and treated appropriately, it could lead to long-term problems," said Papa. Untreated, or under-treated traumatic brain injuries like concussions, can lead to prolonged bouts with headaches, dizziness, memory loss and depression.

Researchers identify a biomarker unique to head injuries that is detectable by a simple blood test for seven days. Credit: Orlando Health

"This test could take the guesswork out of making a diagnosis by allowing doctors to simply look for a specific biomarker in the blood."

The biomarker Papa analyzed is known as a glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). These proteins are found in glial cells, which surround neurons in the brain, and when an injury occurs, the GFAP are released. What makes them unique is that they pass the blood-brain barrier and enter the bloodstream, making them easy to detect with this particular test.

"Not only were they present in the bloodstream, we were able to detect measurable levels of GFAP up to a week after the injury," said Papa.

Researchers analyzed nearly 600 patients for 3 years. When cross-checked with scans, the blood test was able to detect mild to moderate traumatic brain lesions with up to 97 percent accuracy in patients 18 years and older. The blood test also indicated which patients were in need of life-saving neurosurgery. This suggests that the blood test could be used by clinicians for up to a week after injury to detect brain injury. This is important because many patients with concussion may not seek medical attention for days after injury.

The blood test could also dramatically cut down on the need for computerized tomography (CT) scans. Currently, CT scans are the most precise way to diagnose brain lesions, but are expensive and are associated with radiation exposure. "Physicians really want to minimize the amount of CTs in patients, especially children, who are a lot more sensitive to radiation and the side effects that can come with it. Fortunately, this simple blood test appears to give us nearly the same information as a CT scan."

In fact, in a previous study published last fall, Papa and her team at Orlando Health tested both. They analyzed 152 children within 6 hours of sustaining a concussion, or mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. The results showed that the blood test was able to detect brain injuries with 94 percent accuracy, nearly as effective as state-of-the art CT scans.

"This could ultimately change the way we diagnose concussions, not only in children, but in anyone who sustains a head injury," said Papa. "We have so many diagnostic blood tests for different parts of the body, like the heart, liver and kidneys, but there's never been a reliable blood test to identify trauma in the brain. We think this test could change that," she said.

Explore further Concussions in kids are detectable by blood test
@MichaelAuslen

State health regulators are backing off of Planned Parenthood.

The Agency for Health Care Administration on Friday dropped a case alleging that three clinics in St. Petersburg, Naples and Fort Myers were performing abortions in the second trimester of a pregnancy but were only licensed for first-trimester procedures.

Planned Parenthood had contested the alleged violations, saying they were politically motivated following controversial videos last summer. Gov. Rick Scotts ordered the inspections, and his office was intimately involved in crafting the message when the agency announced the violations.

Ultimately, the issue came down to the definition of when the first trimester of a pregnancy ends and the second begins. In reprimanding the clinics, the agency put the end of a trimester two weeks earlier than Planned Parenthood, which said it has always counted the length of a pregnancy starting at the womans last menstrual period  a commonly accepted method.

But an abortion measure signed into law by Scott last week settled the issue.

Under Florida law, the second trimester now begins 12 weeks after gestation.

On Friday Governor Scott signed HB 1411 which rendered these administrative proceedings moot, AHCA spokeswoman Mallory McManus said in a written statement. We will continue to hold Planned Parenthood and all Florida clinics accountable to following the law.

Now, Planned Parenthood is asking an administrative law judge to order the state to pay for attorneys fees and court costs.

In a motion Monday, Planned Parenthood called the charges against the clinics frivolous, primarily to harass and intended to needlessly increase the cost of litigation.

Although the state has dropped the case, Barbara Zdravecky, Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida chief executive officer, said Monday the state is still playing politics with the clinics.

How convenient that now, six months later, they are conceding their case and dropping these politically motivated charges at the same moment that Rick Scott has signed new trimester standards into law that fly in the face of medically accepted standards, she said in a statement. It would appear the political gamesmanship will go on with no regard for the best interests of Florida women and families.
As the list of Republicans in the U.S. Senate willing to meet with President Barack Obama's nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court grows, one of the top GOP contenders for Florida's open U.S. Senate seat is slamming them for "starting to waver."

"We cannot allow them to put another liberal on the Supreme Court and swing the balance for a generation," Manatee County developer Carlos Beruff, a Republican, said. "Merrick Garland is no moderate."

On Friday, U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, went on record to become the 14th Republican Senator to agree to meet with Garland according to the New York Times, and the fourth to call for a vote on Garland. Republican senators in tough re-election campaigns in Illinois, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania have also come out recently to support meeting with Garland. However, no current Republican U.S. Senators have gone so far to say they would vote for Garland to take the position left vacant after the death of Antonin Scalia.



U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, who Beruff is hoping to replace in the Senate, is among those who have said he is willing to meet with Garland though he has said he's not sure what the point is.

Still, Beruff said on Monday that he sees "some in the Republican Establishment are starting to waver."

"The establishment politicians care more about the editorial pages and their invites to Georgetown cocktail parties than they do about the will of their constituents," Beruff said in a statement to the media. "Voters are fed up with a Republican establishment that kowtows to Obama and (Vice President Joe) Biden and plays their political games."

Beruff's criticism comes on the same day that Biden was campaigning with Patrick Murphy, a Democrat running the same open U.S. Senate seat. Last week Biden called the Senate Republicans refusal to consider Garland an "abdication of their Constitutional duty."

Beruff is running in an Aug. 30 Republican primary, which also includes Tampa businessman Todd Wilcox, Florida Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera, and U.S. Reps. Ron DeSantis and David Jolly. Murphy faces U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson in the Democratic primary.
@MichaelAuslen

There are an estimated 726,000 Floridians without health insurance who have a mental illness or substance abuse disorder.

And expanding Medicaid could put a serious dent in that number, cutting it almost in half, according to the federal government, which on Monday released a report citing the impact of expansion on state behavioral health programs.

If states are serious about addressing mental illness, opioids and other substance abuse disorders, expanding Medicaid will provide them a unique opportunity, said Richard Frank, assistant secretary for planning and evaluation with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Florida is one of 29 states that has not opted in to Medicaid expansion. Last year, the Florida House voted down a proposal to do so.

Opponents in the House and Gov. Rick Scott argued that the state would be on the hook to pay for health coverage far down the road when federal money to subsidize the program might not be a guarantee.

Under the Affordable Care Act, the federal government would cover the full cost of expansion through this year and gradually decrease its support to 90 percent in 2020. President Barack Obama has proposed funding 100 percent of the cost for the first three years in any that expands Medicaid.

Mental health and substance abuse, however, have been central to the Legislature's agenda recently. Lawmakers this year passed sweeping changes to the state's mental health system.

Despite long-term impact on states budgets through a larger Medicaid program, federal officials argue that expanding Medicaid would save states money in other parts of their budget.

More generally, we know that states that expand Medicaid can achieve significant improvements with their behavioral health programs without incurring additional costs, saidVikki Wachino, director for the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services.

For example, Floridas prison chief, Julie Jones, estimated last year that 40 percent of the states inmates have some sort of mental illness. And much of the money in Floridas mental health budget is spent on the states mental hospitals, some of the most expensive patients.

Expanding Medicaid, the HHS report says, could help low-income people who need help find treatment before problems become more severe. That means they could work and decrease the risk of becoming homeless or incarcerated.

Whats more, according to the report, as many as 100,000 people could report positive health and 69,000 fewer people could suffer from depression.

Yes there are budgetary impacts in long run, Frank said. But there are huge human gains, huge economic gains as a result of expanding.
President Barack Obama has endorsed U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz who faces a rare primary challenge for her Broward/Miami-Dade congressional district.

It's no surprise that Obama endorsed his Democratic National Committee chair since 2011 -- but it shows that she is facing a challenge worth paying attention to from Nova Southeastern University professor Tim Canova.

Wasserman Schultz, who lives in Weston, was first elected to Congress in 2004 and since that time has not faced a primary challenge. She has easily beat GOP challengers by landslides in one of the most left-leaning districts in South Florida. Canova's campaign resembles the presidential candidate he supports: Bernie Sanders. Canova emphasizes issues such as campaign finance reform and income inequality and has attacked Wasserman Schultz's positions on issues such as opposing the medical marijuana ballot initiative in Florida in 2014.

Canova faces an uphill battle against Wasserman Schultz who has already raised about $1.1 million toward her re-election. Canova recently tweeted that he had received donations from more than 20,000 individuals but we won't know the total dollar amount until his first fundraising report is due April 15.

Canova has support from some progressives in the party, has been endorsed by the Communications Workers of America and National Nurses United and has drawn national media attention. Last week, the Florida Democratic Party agreed to give him access to the voter data file after initially refusing to provide it. The party has not shared that data with primary Congressional challengers in recent years but after Canova waged a campaign for it on social media and in person at a Broward Democratic dinner the party reversed its position -- but only for him.

From Wasserman Schultz's press release here is Obama's statement:

"Debbie has been a strong, progressive leader in Congress and a hardworking, committed Chair of our national Party since I proudly nominated her to the role in 2011. She always stands up and fights for what is right for her district while passionately supporting middle class families. Throughout my time as President I have seen Debbie bring an unwavering commitment to her family, her constituents, and our shared goals of protecting seniors, supporting working families, and expanding economic opportunity for more people. I strongly endorse her reelection to Congress and look forward to her future service on behalf of the people of South Florida."

Wasserman Schultz has sided with Obama on most issues but she didn't embrace his trip to Cuba.

When asked before the Democratic debate in Miami last month about Obama's trip to Cuba she said she had no interest in visiting the island: "not until they make more human rights progress."
HELENA  A Bozeman Republican illegally took thousands of dollars' worth of unreported campaign contributions from several nonprofit corporations funded by a national anti-union organization during his 2010 election campaign, the attorney for Montana's campaign regulator told a jury Monday.

Rep. Art Wittich essentially turned over his campaign to groups operating under the National Right to Work Committee, Special Attorney General Gene Jarussi said in his opening arguments. The groups, led by a Right to Work operative named Christian LeFer, provided Wittich with a direct mail program of ghost-written letters signed by the candidate and his wife, along with opposition research, media and campaign consulting, voter data and website design, Jarussi said.

"It's impossible to conclude that Mr. Wittich didn't know what was going on," Jarussi said.

Candidates cannot receive direct contributions from corporations under Montana law. A jury of seven women and five men will decide in the trial expected to last through Friday whether Wittich coordinated with the groups, whether they gave him the alleged services and if so, what the value of the services were.

Wittich denies any wrongdoing. His attorney, Lucinda Luetkemeyer, told jurors that Wittich ran his own campaign and hired a Livingston printer to produce the voter letters and his website. He paid fair-market value for the work and was "surprised and sad" to receive a letter two years ago that Commissioner of Political Practices Jonathan Motl was investigating him.

The investigation is "a government overreach horror story," Luetkemeyer said.

There is no recording, email or any other evidence that shows Wittich coordinated with the groups, she said.

Motl's investigation concluded that multiple groups affiliated with or partially funded by the National Right to Work Committee selected candidates to whom they offered a campaign package called "the works" for free or for cost. That included a series of seven voter letters penned by employees at Right to Work's Virginia headquarters, and fliers attacking the candidates' opponents, according to Motl's findings.

The candidates also were offered training, voter data and yard-sign design, according to employee documents subpoenaed by Motl's office.

Motl, who cannot enforce penalties himself, filed lawsuits against nine candidates he said received the services in 2010. He discovered five others who received "the works" package after the four-year statute of limitations ran out, he said.

Wittich's case is the first brought by Motl to go to trial. Wittich has accused Motl of selective prosecution for partisan reasons.

Motl was appointed by Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock and confirmed last year by the Republican-led Legislature.

The National Right to Work Committee has not responded to repeated requests for comment. A separate lawsuit against Right to Work and its affiliates is pending.

Cases against three of the nine candidates have been resolved without a trial. Rep. Mike Miller, R-Helmville, settled out of court for a fine and agreed not to run for office for four years. Two state judges entered default judgments against state House candidate Joel Boniek and former Senate candidate Wesley Prouse, who did not show up to defend themselves. Both were fined and banned from running for office until they file corrected campaign finance reports.
BEIJING  A liberal Chinese writer living in Germany has said security officers in China detained three members of his family in connection with a mysterious online letter that denounced the iron-fisted rule of President Xi Jinping.

The writer, Chang Ping, said on Sunday in a post on China Change, a pro-democracy website, that two younger brothers and a younger sister were abducted by the Chinese police and were the latest victims in official investigations of the letter, which was posted this month and demanded that Mr. Xi resign.

The detentions bring to 11 the number of people who have been held by security officers in a widening investigation of the origins of the letter. One freelance writer, Jia Jia, was released on Friday after being detained on March 15.

Mr. Chang wrote an article for Deutsche Welle on March 19 that criticized Mr. Jias detention. He also gave an interview to Radio France Internationale, or RFI.
HONG KONG  Donald J. Trumps suggestion that Japan and South Korea should take more responsibility for their defense, including possibly developing their own nuclear weapons, has provoked worries in Asia about the potential for a regional arms race.

Thousands of United States troops are stationed in Japan and South Korea as part of mutual defense treaties. The arrangement puts American forces close to China and Russia and on the front lines of any possible conflict with North Korea. The allegiances are often described as cornerstones for regional defense.

Mr. Trump, the Republican presidential front-runner, said in an interview on Friday with The New York Times that he would be open to withdrawing American forces from Japan and South Korea if those countries were not willing to pay more to keep those forces stationed there. I would not do so happily, but I would be willing to do it, he said.

Government press officers in Tokyo and Seoul, the South Korean capital, offered muted responses, citing the continuing United States presidential campaign. But some newspapers in Asia were vehement in denouncing Mr. Trumps comments in their opinion pages.
Saudi Arabia announced a large prisoner swap on Monday with its Houthi rebel adversaries in the Yemen war  109 Yemenis for nine Saudis  in what appeared to be meant as a signal that the two sides would honor a cease-fire planned for April 10.

The Saudi announcement, conveyed in a terse dispatch by the official Saudi Press Agency, said the prisoner exchange was completed on Sunday. It did not specify the location; presumably it took place somewhere along the Saudi-Yemeni frontier.

The dispatch described the prisoners Saudi Arabia released as Yemeni citizens arrested in operations areas near the Saudi southern border, but did not say whether they were fighters or civilians. Neither did it further describe the Saudis who were released.

The exchange was only the second to be announced since a Saudi-led coalition began a campaign of aerial bombings aimed at the Houthi rebels and their allies in Yemen a year ago. The first announced prisoner exchange took place earlier this month, with seven Yemenis freed in exchange for one Saudi.
"When we started our business, Extension connected us with resources to get the answers we needed. Thats whats so amazing about Extension: they find a way to help you get to the next step."

- Scott Hicks

Cutting Edge Meat Company

In Green County
Bullying is a topic everyone seems to be talking about, but no one seems quite certain how to handle it.

Following the recent suicides of several students in Eastern Montana, parents have been packing school meetings while school officials have been scrambling to stay on top of their bullying procedures.

Compounding the tension is an anti-bullying bill passed last year by the Montana Legislature that mandates all school districts have a policy in place but offers little direction in what the policy should include.

Add to this the rise of social media and cyberbullying, and children who once found some relief at home can now be bullied anonymously and around the clock.

Schools respond to complaints differently. Many districts have adopted a reporting form, with some districts limiting access to the form to students, while others encourage parents to download the form online. In School District 2 in Billings, many bullying complaints are reviewed by an independent adjudicator.

In Laurel, a group of parents has been lobbying school officials to change the way they address bullying. In fact, a few parents have even pulled their children from the district after losing faith in districts ability to protect their children from harassment and assault.

Parents also met recently in the Livingston after the February suicide of 17-year-old Park High School student Deon Gillen. The teenagers parents sued the district two years ago, claiming administrators failed to protect their son, who had a learning disability, from repeated and vicious assaults and harassment while attending Sleeping Giant Middle School.

The suit, which is still pending, claims the bullying was so severe that Deon required medical attention on several occasions and was eventually diagnosed with aggravated post-traumatic stress disorder.

Bullying happens daily

In SD2, George Zorzakis is a school resource officer from the Billings Police Department. He works in both Lewis and Clark and Will James middle schools.

He said he sees various degrees of bullying every day and that most of it stems from social media interactions.

A lack of strong state legislative direction, he said, has dumped the responsibility of defining and addressing bullying with school districts.

Even so, its inherently difficult to separate typical peer-to-peer conflict from bullying. One indicating factor is an imbalance of power, whether thats based on size, learning ability, economic status or other differences.

Situations that go unchecked early can snowball in severity, Zorzakis said.

The bullying group becomes larger, so were dealing with more parents, more kids, he said. It becomes more complicated.

Parents can also become a barrier to resolving a conflict if theyre unwilling to cooperate or seek help for their children. In serious cases of cyberbullying, Montanas Privacy and Communications law can be used to hold aggressors accountable. And in the most challenging cases, police can arrest a student, which channels them into the juvenile justice system. Once in the system, students may have access to resources like counseling for families who cant afford it or have refused to pursue it on their own.

Most student conflicts dont escalate to the point of engaging the school resource officer, he said.

Independent review in SD2

Michelle Smith is a former Senior High School teacher who participated in a 15-person panel that reworked School District 2s bullying policies and procedures in October 2013.

We had an anti-bullying policy, but it needed to be refined to become in line with state standards, she said.

And at the time we didnt really have a good reporting form, she added. We wanted to make sure it was easily accessible for parents and students.

Smith and the committee of administrators, along with SD2 attorney Jeff Weldon, looked at recommendations from the Montana Office of Public Instruction and along with some independent research, established a clear procedure for staff to follow when bullying, intimidation or harassment is reported.

Students, parents, administrators and teachers now use a reporting form available online and in hard copy at every schools main office.

Once an incident is reported, staff follow guidelines to determine whether the incident fits the criteria for bullying and harassment. When the investigation is completed, both the report and investigation forms are filed in the victim and aggressors files.

Complaints involving teachers and administrators, whether students are involved or not, require an immediate investigation by Smith, who works independently from the district to avoid conflicts of interest.

She also handles bullying and harassment complaints that cannot be resolved at the building or administrative levels. For instance, if students or parents are not satisfied with the outcome of earlier investigations.

The cases I receive, not all of them are founded, Smith said. Other situations are misunderstandings or perhaps a teacher who is not using best practices, but it is not harassment.

She doesnt issue or recommend specific disciplinary measures. Smiths job is to determine whether a case fits the criteria for bullying, harassment or intimidation and submit her findings to the superintendent.

Montanas anti-bullying law

The Bully-Free Montana Act defined bullying as any harassment, intimidation, hazing, or threatening, insulting, or demeaning gesture or physical contact, including any intentional written, verbal, or electronic communication or threat directed against a student that is persistent, severe, or repeated.

The law requires every school district to adopt an anti-bullying policy but doesnt lay out punishment requirements or investigation or reporting procedures. Some policies are applied at the district level and others by school.

Smith said action is always taken in SD2, regardless of whether the incident is deemed bullying, harassment or a mutual conflict. The school districts policy provides guidelines to determine discipline. If a student needs to change classes or schools, the aggressor is moved, not the victim.

Livingston and Laurel schools use a bullying incident report form similar to SD2s. But Laurels form is only implemented in the middle school and is only available online with a school email account or in hard copy at the school.

A Laurel mothers experience

Lisa Woodward said she was frustrated she couldnt access the form to document the bullying her kids reported to her. She moved to Laurel three years ago, and her son, Taylor, now 14, said the bullying began almost immediately.

Taylor said he filled out multiple report forms but never felt the incidents were taken seriously. Teachers spoke to him, along with the children he had trouble with, but he felt like he saw no results.

Woodward had no idea about the bullying until her son came home depressed and despondent. She called the schools counselor and learned about the previous incidents.

Something needs to happen when bullying happens, she said. I think parents need to be contacted when their kids turn in a purple form.

Woodward said the schools counselor was helpful and always available to work with her family. Even with that support, however, Taylors problems at school continued until Woodward enrolled him outside the district at Lewis and Clark Middle School in Billings.

He did well there, making the honor roll after failing classes in Laurel. But the cost of tuition proved to be unsustainable, and he returned to Laurel Public Schools for eighth grade. Although he still experiences bullying, he doesnt fill out report forms anymore and only talks about the worst incidents that occur about once a month.

Woodward said she believes Laurel administrators have the best intentions and want to keep kids safe, but the system is broken.

The kids all hear about these things, too, and know nothing happens, Woodward said. Its really discouraging. Someone is going to have to get hurt before things change.

A group of parents and concerned community members organized after a Laurels student suicide sparked a conversation about bullying. Communicate Advise Prevent Empower, or CAPE, requested the board re-evaluate the school districts bullying policies.

(The Board of Trustees) discussed bullying every year as part of our strategic plan, dealing with the safety of our kids. So its not something new, but we can always improve on it, said Doug Lebrun, chairman of the Laurel School District Board of Trustees.

Lebrun said a committee will review the district's current policy and compare it to those already in place at School District 2 and Great Falls Public Schools. Possible changes include a mandatory time frame to notify parents when their children file a complaint or have one filed against them, sending a form for parents to sign detailing the district's policy and how parents can report incidents, and implementing an investigation form.

Lebrun said that although Laurel Middle School is the only school in the district with a bullying incident report form, there is a harassment form available across the district.

The form is located on Laurel School District's website under the "students" section of the school board policies. Lebrun said the form is not readily available in schools, but that is a change the district may consider.

A Livingston fathers experience

In Livingston, Kelly Bergsing said his son was bullied at Park High School as a freshman. An older player on the basketball team urinated in his sons shampoo bottle. His son then unknowingly used it to wash his hair.

Bergsing said his son didnt tell him about the incident even after he was teased by team members for awhile and his grades began to decline. He only learned of the problem when his daughter, a senior at the time, overheard a teacher ask a student if he was ever punished for the shampoo incident.

Bergsing said he was frustrated that staff knew about the incident but didnt act. He notified school administrators, but he was unaware of the official report form until he contacted a school board member out of dissatisfaction with the way the situation was handled. At that point his son decided not to fill out the report for fear of retaliation from other students.

Rich Moore, superintendent of Livingston Schools, said all behavioral incidents are electronically recorded across the district. He encourages parents and students to file the report forms available online or in school offices.

However, conflicts rarely qualify as bullying, and student disagreements are ideally handled without administrative intervention.

We want to teach kids how to mediate their social conflicts in a productive way, Moore said.

If they cant resolve the situation, the principal would step in and try to address the issue. The case falls to Moore if the students or parents involved are still unsatisfied. So far in the 2015-16 school year, Moore has handled four cases, two where formal reports were filed.

I would say most of them that come to my level are things that have been reported but have not been resolved. They are truly bullying incidents and need a more systemic response, Moore said.

That includes counseling for the aggressor and conflict-resolution training.

Unfortunately, sometimes youre dealing with students who are coming from pretty turbulent backgrounds, so they come with some really limited ways of resolving problems, Moore said. So we have to try to help those kids learn those more appropriate skills.
Montanas incredibly popular Habitat Montana program is a favorite target of state lawmakers because it allows the state to purchase land for wildlife through a fund that hunters pay into.

Whats often left out of the conversation is the contribution that Habitat Montana makes to traditional farm and ranch operations. Habitat Montana primarily funds conservation easements that protect working agricultural lands  which tremendously benefit wildlife  and can help farmers and ranchers add to their operations and stay on the land.

That was well illustrated through four major conservation easements that recently came before the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission for initial consideration. The proposals total 33,800 acres on four ranches located in central and eastern Montana. These stunning landscapes include key habitat for mule deer, antelope, elk and numerous other wildlife species.

Among those are the greater sage-grouse, a native prairie grouse that was nearly listed as endangered last year. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opted not to list the bird, thanks to extensive state and federal conservation plans aimed at protecting and restoring crucial sagebrush-steppe habitat. Montanas conservation plan strongly emphasizes working with private landowners to protect sage-grouse habitat on working farms and ranches. One of the proposed projects  the Machler property in Fergus County north of Roy  includes nine sage-grouse leks. The easement would protect 2,700 acres of the ranch that is located in core sage-grouse habitat.

In addition to protecting sage-grouse habitat, the easements include a public access component allowing public hunting. And they also have the potential to improve public access to adjoining public lands, which would create more public hunting opportunity.

Another easement, the Rumney Foothills located near Cascade, would allow the rancher to expand the operation by purchasing more property. The area is comprised of foothill grasslands that provide important winter range for elk and mule deer, as well as riparian and shrub habitats where white-tailed deer thrive. In total the easement would protect 7,512 acres.

Last session, the Legislature limited the ability of Habitat Montana to be used for new land protection projects. Several lawmakers had tried to end the program entirely. Some legislators who dont like Habitat Montana criticize FWP for owning too much land. Montanans need to understand that when politicians attack FWP lands, they are referring to the wildlife management areas that many of us hunt every fall.

By protecting key wildlife corridors and winter range, Montanas wildlife management areas also help reduce conflicts between big game and farming and ranching operations. Elk on a wildlife management area arent raiding haystacks or causing fence damage to private operations. The alternative is the Wyoming model, which involves feeding thousands of elk in feed grounds that are a major vector for disease spread and other health issues. Thats not good for wildlife or agricultural operators, and it certainly goes against our strong conservation record in Montana.

Eliminating Habitat Montana would be bad for Montanas hunters, anglers and wildlife watchers. It would be bad for the numerous businesses that thrive because of our abundant wildlife and the public lands that support it.

And as these projects demonstrate, eliminating Habitat Montana would also be bad for our agriculture industry as well. Its vital that in the next legislative session we fully restore Habitat Montana.

-- Nick Gevock is the conservation director for the Montana Wildlife Federation.
President Obama has nominated Merrick Garland, a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, to replace Justice Antonin Scalia on the U.S. Supreme Court. If confirmed, he could serve on the court for at least a decade and tip the balance in favor of the liberal block of justices who routinely side with government over employers.

The consequences for the economy, and especially for small businesses, could be harsh and long-lasting. Thats why the National Federation of Independent Business, the countrys leading advocate for small-business owners, has been vetting Judge Garlands record for weeks. Our legal experts have been pouring over his decisions, rulings and public statements related to hundreds of cases.

After studying his record, NFIB found that Garland has sided overwhelmingly with regulators, labor unions, trial lawyers and environmental activists. Small employers have been almost always on the losing end of his decisions.

For example, in NAHB v. EPA, Judge Garland in 2011 rejected a Regulatory Flexibility Act claim by the National Association of Home Builders against the Environmental Protection Agency. He did so despite the fact that the RFA is unambiguous. It requires certain agencies to analyze the effect of their actions on small employers. Thats an important protection for small businesses, who struggle with the costs of regulations. In fact, according to the Small Business Administration, the typical small business must spend $12,000 per worker annually to comply with federal regulations. Theres little doubt that Judge Garland would defer to regulators as a Supreme Court justice.

In another case, Rancho Viejo, LLC v. Norton, in 2003, Garland argued that the federal government can regulate private property in California under the Commerce Clause because of the presence of a unique species of toad. The Commerce Clause applies to interstate commerce. The toad wasnt part of any interstate commercial activity. Nevertheless, Garland twisted the Commerce Clause into a pretzel in order to rationalize federal regulation. Would he be just as creative as a Supreme Court justice in giving regulators more power over private property? NFIB believes thats very likely.

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On the Circuit Court, Garland ruled in many cases involving the National Labor Relations Board. The NLRB is supposed to be a neutral arbiter of labor disputes. Often, however, it acts more as an agent of the labor unions. Thats been especially true under President Obama. Garland ruled in two cases that when employers are found guilty of violations, not only should their business assets be penalized but their personal assets as well. In other words, according to Garland, a business owners personal assets, like homes and retirement savings, are fair game for regulators.

In fact, in 16 major labor decisions, Garland ruled in favor of the NLRB in all but one case. In that case, he voted with the union. Thats the pattern throughout his long tenure on the bench. He strongly favors government power over private enterprise. He has deep sympathies for labor unions over employers. And he is certain to bring those views to the Supreme Court, where big decisions affecting the economy are likely to be made in the future.

NFIB is a plaintiff in two very important cases that could land at the Supreme Court soon. It is challenging the EPA Waters of the United States rule, which would require local business owners to seek federal approval for even the smallest property improvements as long as there is water nearby. The applications will cost thousands; the delays will be endless; the threat of litigation will hang over every project.

The EPA Power Plan rule is just as potentially damaging. It forces states to switch from coal as a source of electricity to more expensive alternatives. Even the EPA predicts it will significantly increase the cost of electricity. That means higher fixed costs and lower profits for small businesses that are already struggling.

After examining his record, its a fair assumption that Judge Garland would readily side with the government in both of these major cases. Small business knows where he stands. NFIB is firmly opposed to this nominee.

-- Riley Johnson is Montana state director for the National Federation of Independent Business, and writes from Helena.
Her full title is "The Reverend Doctor Pam Saturnia," but the pastor of Muscatine's First Presbyterian Church would rather go by "Pam." Like all pastors, Pam has been busy with Lent, Holy Week, and preparations for Easter. What separates Pam from her Muscatine colleagues is a few months ago she was in the national news when Donald Trump attended her church. It was all part of a day's work in the Pearl City for Pam, an east coast native. "I love living in Iowa and Muscatine," she said. "Muscatine is a wonderful community, and I love being in ministry at this church."

 Charles Potter, for the Muscatine Journal

Name: Pam Saturnia

Age: 51

Hometown: Berkeley Heights, New Jersey (a suburb of New York City)

Education: Graduated from Governor Livingston High School in Berkeley Heights in 1982; graduated with a BA in psychology and elementary education from Gettysburg College, Pennsylvania, in 1986; graduated with a Masters of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1991; graduated with a Doctor of Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, in 2001.

Professional history: Associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Muscatine 1991-2004; pastor of New Hope Presbyterian Church in Davenport 2004-2012; pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Muscatine 2013-present.

With your undergraduate emphasis in psychology and elementary education, how did you get into ministry?

Growing up, I was always involved in the church. Throughout college, I thought I would be an elementary teacher or a preacher. I was very active in chapel and religious life on campus at Gettysburg. By the time I graduated, I thought I was going to seminary, but I needed a break. So I taught English at Orange Middle School in Orange, New Jersey  literally right outside Newark  for one year. I had a good year but continued to feel the calling to ministry, so I knew it was time to continue my education for that.

What drew you to Iowa?

In the Presbyterian Church, we are placed in areas by bishops. I was open to going anywhere in the country. My resume was in a pile that was sent to Muscatine. I had a weekend interviewing with the committee and preached for them in a neutral church, and I felt good about it, and so did they. I felt called here by God, and I'm glad it worked out that way. I had spent an intensive year as an intern in Northern Ireland and enjoyed the country there. My experience in Iowa has been that people are more friendly than they might be in more urban areas.

When Donald Trump worshipped at your church Jan. 24, you followed the lectionary lessons for that day and talked about showing acceptance and hospitality or immigrants and refugees. Did you make any changes in your sermon for Mr. Trump?

It's what would have been preached that Sunday no matter who was there.

Was there any feedback from the Trump campaign?

Nothing negative. He was complimentary to the church and out the door fairly quickly.

How much advance notice did you have that he would be in your congregation that morning?

We had a little over an hour.

A video of your sermon that went viral shows you calm, cool and collected, but there's also a security person in the background. Was the whole experience nerve wracking?

Yeah. I'd rather not delve into that. We at the church committed to not grant interviews about it. I'll let the video speak for itself.

Fair enough. In your spare time, what hobbies do you enjoy?

I like playing the guitar. I like reading. I like watching British television  comedies, mysteries  you name it. And I just joined the Melon City Bicycling Club. I haven't been on any of their Monday night rides yet, but I will!
A few months ago, a young American woman named Kate decided to organize a choir in a refugee camp.

To do so, she went to Germany, as a visiting guest artist at the American Academy in Berlin. She settled down around the block from a Red Cross building. Her camp is a gym with about 200 asylum-seekers, coming currently from Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Moldova and Vietnam.

Oh, to see the faces of the children Kate is working with as part of the Hutto Project, named after her late music teacher, Benjamin Hutto, who worked out of the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. To look at those children, pictures of whom you can see on the Hutto Project's Facebook page, is to witness the persistence of beauty and the miracle of grace.

As one visitor puts it: "For the course of a song or dance, for a few minutes when she has them thoroughly engaged, (the Hutto team) makes (the children) laugh and smile, and you can actually see that for those minutes, and maybe only those minutes, they are forgetting everything else." This is true beauty, in the midst of so much that could otherwise blind everyone to its presence.

Kate's story reminds me of tales I've read all my life of founders of religious orders who simply answered a call put in their heart by God, without full regard for how to get from point A to point B, never mind having the luxury to think about Z. But the resources came, as did the people. Translators, musicians, videographers and counselors have all flocked to Project Hutto.

I happened to be with about 100 religious sisters as Easter approached, just hours after almost 200 of them were gathered outside the Supreme Court in Washington for the Little Sisters of the Poor religious-liberty case. My crew these days are the Sisters of Life, who are celebrating their silver jubilee year, two decades into the life of their community, founded to cultivate a culture of life. The sisters pour their hearts out to women who find themselves in what could otherwise seem to be impossible situations  alone, pregnant, often beset by the many stresses of life, with the world telling them to end the life of their child. The sisters love these mothers and give them the support they need to embrace their lives and the budding lives of their children. The sisters also care for those who have been hurt by a culture of death.

Pope Francis often talks about people on the peripheries in a throwaway society. We cast aside people who seem to be without value. If the poor are even on our radar at all, it may be as a statistic or unfortunate collateral damage in a news story. Caught up in headlines about Obamacare politics, to stop for a moment and consider who the sisters are, what they do and why they do it could be a great consolation and boost for our society at a time when people are despairing and doubling down on chaos or anger. We need to know that such people as the Little Sisters of the Poor exist. They help us see joy.

Whether they be my young friend Kate Eberstadt or Sister Constance of the Little Sisters, who has become a master communicator during the group's unexpected national media moment, or Mother Agnes Donovan, the group's superior general  none of these women are what the world might traditionally think of when it thinks of mothers. And yet, they are exactly the mothers we need  at a moment when so much seems impossible. At a moment where the future is unclear, someone hands her son or daughter a musical instrument and it's just a little bit of a miracle. To see love again. To see hope again. In the smile of someone who didn't have to care for you, to even give a moment's thought to you. To see someone love your child -- this is the start of a reawakening.

Kathryn Jean Lopez is senior fellow at the National Review Institute, editor-at-large of National Review Online and founding director of Catholic Voices USA. She can be contacted at klopez@nationalreview.com.
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 []
Vodacom and MTN launched the first cellular services in South Africa in 1994, and the uptake of mobile telephony was so fast that it surprised most industry players.

South Africans could not wait to get their hands on the latest devices at the time, like the Alcatel HB100, Ericsson GH198, Motorola 7200, Siemens S3, and Nokia 2110.

As mobile technologies advanced, cellular phones became smaller, battery life improved, and they received cool features like games, custom ringtones, and cellular data support.

The miniaturisation of mobile phones came to a sudden end with the advent of smartphones, when large touchscreen devices started to gain popularity.

While smartphones are all the rage now, most people who used mobile phones in the 90s still have a warm feeling towards their old favourites.

A recent MyBroadband survey asked South African IT professionals which classic mobile phones they think were the best. The most popular selections are listed below.

Nokia 3310

It was one of the most successful mobile phones ever. It weighed 133 grams and offered over 4 hours of talk time. It also sported changeable front and back covers.

Motorola Razr V3

The phone racked up sales of 130 million units. It featured a TFT 256K colour display, offered games, and weighed 95 grams.

Nokia 3210

It offered users downloadable monophonic ringtones, weighed 151 grams, and had a 5-line monochrome graphic screen.

Nokia 6110

The phone offered an advanced user interface with menu icons, and featured an infrared port.

Nokia 6310 and 6310i

This phone was very popular for its robustness, and featured tri-band reception, Java, and a blue-backlit LCD Screen.

Nokia 6210

This device offered many cool features at the time, like an alarm clock, an HSCSD modem, a web client, and 3 games.

Nokia 5110

It was rugged, had excellent battery life, and featured an 84 x 48 pixel monochrome LCD with four LED back lights.

Samsung E250

It offered a 128 x 160 pixel TFT screen, a microSD card slot, and SMS, EMS, MMS, e-mail, and WAP support. The phone weighed 80 grams.

Sony Ericsson k800i

It featured a 3.2-megapixel digital camera with a xenon flash, a protective lens cover, and was the first Sony Cyber-shot branded phone.

Nokia Communicator

The clamshell communicator series was a popular choice among business people. It offered a QWERTY keyboard and Internet connectivity.

More on mobile phones

South Africas most popular mobile phones: 1994 to 2014

The first ever cellphones sold in South Africa
The South African Post Office (SAPO) said the most important electronic product that customers can expect from it in the near future is eRegistered Mail.

eRegistered Mail carries the same legal status as paper-based Registered Mail, and enables users to send electronic mail, from single items to bulk mail, to a valid email address.

eRegistered Mail is the Official, Legislated Electronic Registered Mail of South Africa, in terms of Section 19(4) of the ECT Act 25 of 2002.

Where any law requires or permits a person to send a document or information by registered or certified post or similar service, that requirement is met if an electronic copy of the document or information is sent to the South African Post Office Limited, is registered by the said Post Office and sent by that Post Office to the electronic address provided by the sender.

SAPO e-business head Nkosinathi Tolom said the launch of eRegistered Mail will be communicated to its customers.

More on the Post Office

SA Post Office gets new CEO

Maladministration by SA Post Office vindicates complaints by publishers

SA Post Office reports R1.5-billion loss
CINCINNATI  Tea party activists are heartened by a federal appeals court ruling that strengthens their legal push against the IRS for alleged targeting in past election cycles.

A three-judge panel of the Cincinnati-based 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals chastised government foot-dragging while ordering the agency to give attorneys for tea party groups details on tax-exempt applicants. A U.S. district judge in Cincinnati this year certified the case as a class action.

Tea Party Patriots co-founder Jenny Beth Martin praised the original plaintiffs for relentless pursuit of the truth.

The 2013 lawsuit was among litigation, congressional hearings and federal investigations over treatment of conservative groups who said they were singled out for extra IRS scrutiny. The Justice Department decided against any criminal charges after its probe.

Its about time, Tim Savaglio of the Liberty Township Tea Party said of the federal order to release IRS records.

The IRS inspector general said in a 2013 report that applications with such words as tea party and patriots were set aside, among hundreds of applications including some from liberal groups that languished. Groups on agency Be On the Lookout lists received what the 6th Circuit ruling called crushing demands for additional information such as lists of donors, the content of speeches and presentations, details of activities and copies of newsletters, emails and advertising materials.

Savaglio said his group went more than a year without response to its application, then received a letter seeking more information about its activities. He said that after providing information, the tea party group got another letter asking for clarification. IRS employees, he said, took exception to such things as postings on the groups Facebook page, including reposts by people not in their group.

We considered ourselves an education group, Savaglio said. He said his group hasnt responded to an IRS request to re-apply for special tax status.

Martin praised the NorCal Tea Party Patriots, the California-based group since joined by other groups in the Cincinnati lawsuit. The group alleged violation of privacy laws and its constitutional rights.

The entire movement owes the NorCal Tea Party their thanks for keeping the pressure on the IRS and never giving up the fight, she said in a statement.

Much of the agencys top leadership was replaced, and the government says changed have been made in how tax-exempt applications are handled.

The Justice Department didnt respond immediately to a request last week for comment on the 6th Circuit ruling.

Judge Raymond Kethledge of 6th Circuit wrote that the IRS response to the lawsuit has only compounded the conduct that gave rise to it, and said the court expects it will do better going forward and comply immediately with court-ordered discovery.
WASHINGTON Calling the moment bittersweet, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama welcomed thousands of children to the South Lawn of the White House Monday morning for the final Easter Egg Roll of his presidency.

The egg rolling began in 1878. Now the event includes storytelling, musical performances and tips from professional athletes on how to play basketball, tennis and other sports. There are even cooking demonstrations and yoga. This year, the first lady added a fun run to the mix.

"I'm going to be running around the White House with a bunch of kids and any adults who feel like they can hang," the first lady told the crowd as the president jokingly signaled in the background that the run wasn't for him.

The Obamas spoke from a balcony that overlooks the lawn with dogs Bo and Sunny and the Easter Bunny at their side. They then went out into the crowd for some hands-on play. The president read the children's book, "Where the Wild Things Are," a classic from 1963, and the Obamas acted some of the story out, marching enthusiastically with the kids as he read the line "let the wild rumpus start!"

Obama couldn't resist heading to the basketball court, giving out hugs and handing balls to kids. He missed his shot as retired NBA players Shaquille O'Neal and Jason Collins looked on. The president also tried his hand at tennis, lobbing a bright orange and yellow ball back and forth with a young woman. Then he switched to doubles, teaming up with a boy in a bright green shirt as his playing partner.

More than 35,000 people received tickets that allow them to walk on the South Lawn of the White House, rain or shine. Fortunately, the sun broke through mid-morning after a night of scattered rain showers. In the afternoon, the White House was on a heightened security alert after a gunman fired shots in the U.S. Capitol complex. The Secret Service took a routine, precautionary measure of closing the north and south fence lines of the White House complex, but activities on the South Lawn continued as normal.

The theme of this year's event is "Let's celebrate." The first lady said she wanted to celebrate families and the nation in what will be the couple's last Easter in office.

"It's our diversity. It's our values," the first lady said. "That's what makes us strong."

The fun run is intended to highlight the first lady's "Let's Move!" initiative, which focuses on reducing childhood obesity. She also promised dancing: "We've got a little "whip" and a little "nae nae"  or however you do it," she said, providing a brief example of how the dance is done.
WHATS HAPPENING AT CAMEO CINEMA

Eye in the Sky is the featured film at the Cameo Cinema starting Friday, April 1. A UK-based military officer (Helen Mirren) is in command of a top-secret drone operation to capture terrorists in Kenya. Through remote surveillance and on-the-ground intelligence, she discovers the targets are planning a suicide bombing, and the mission escalates from capture to kill. But as an American pilot (Aaron Paul) is about to engage, a 9-year-old girl enters the kill zone, triggering an international dispute reaching the highest levels of the U.S. and British governments. The late Alan Rickman co-stars. Rated R (1H 42M). The film plays Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday, April 7, at 3, 5:45 and 8:30 p.m.; Monday at 3 and 8:30 p.m.; and Tuesday at 5:45 and 8:30 p.m.

The Wave is a Norwegian disaster thriller about a tsunami taking aim at a tourist-packed village. Rated R (1H 44M) It plays Thursday, March 31, at 3 and 8:30 p.m.

Film titles and times may change. Call to verify. Tickets for regular showings: $10 general; $8 students, seniors and military; $6 for art films and matinees before 5 p.m.; $5 for family films.

USE YOUR VOICE CONCERT AT UPTOWN

The League of Women Voters of Napa County are teaming up with folk musician Patty Griffin and touring mates Sara Watkins and Anais Mitchell at an upcoming concert and voter engagement drive called Use Your Voice at 8 p.m. Thursday, March 31, at the Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St. in Napa. At the concert, local League of Women Voters volunteers will help fans get the election information they need, including how to update their voter registration and find easy-to-understand local candidate and voting information. The event is part of a 39-city tour.

Tickets: $40-$70.

YOUNTVILLE LIVE IS THIS WEEKEND

The Goo Goo Dolls, Kris Allen, Mayer Hawthorne and Plain White Ts are headlining the second annual Yountville Live Thursday, March 31, through Sunday, April 3, in Yountville. Passes range from $75 for single events to $1,095 for all-access VIP passes. The events feature local wines paired with meals by local chefs.

LANDSCAPE PHOTOS AT SHPL

Seeing the Light, featuring the landscape photography of Stephen Edwards, will be on display throughout April at the St. Helena Public Library, with an artists reception at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7. Edwards took the photos over a period of 20 years, with some predating digital photography.

Admission: Free.

Details: SHPL.org or 963-5244.

NAPA VALLEY COLLECTS IS APRIL 7

Napa Valley Collects, honoring the regions private art collectors, will begin with an opening reception at 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, at the Napa Valley Museum, 55 Presidents Circle in Yountville. Presented in partnership with Arts Council Napa Valley and Visit Napa Valley for Arts in April, the exhibit includes significant works from outstanding art collections throughout the Napa Valley. The reception will include wine and refreshments. The display continues through June 26.

Admission to opening reception: $10 for members/$20 for nonmembers.

Details: NapaValleyMuseum.org or 944-0500.

MIKE GREENSILL AT SILOS

Pianist Mike Greensill will perform from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at Silos, 530 Main St. in Napa. He will also play on April 23.

Admission: Free.

Details: SilosNapa.com or 251-5833.

CONCERT IN MEMORY OF PAUL COEYTAUX

A Gracias a la Vida concert in memory of Paul Coeytaux will be held a year after his passing at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10, at the St. Helena Presbyterian Church, 1428 Spring St. The concert is for all the locals who knew Coeytaux and all those who wish they had known him. Songs will be performed by his daughter, Marielle Coeytaux, in French, English and Spanish. Truly a man before his time, Paul Coeytaux was a pioneer of organic farming, introducing in the 1960s agricultural practices that respected both the soil and the environment. This memorial concert will be an occasion for his local friends to share memories and honor his contributions.

Admission: Free. Wine and appetizers will be served after the concert.

DECISIVE BATTLES OF THE CIVIL WAR

Jay Greenes lecture series on Four Battles That Shaped the Outcome of Americas Civil War continues with the Battle of Gettysburg at 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, at the St. Helena Public Library. During the four fiercely fought years of the war, the outcome remained in doubt. In this series of talks, Greene describes how four battles critically shaped the course of the war, and how the Unions victory over the Confederacy changed the course of U.S. history. Greene graduated from Dartmouth College with honors in history. The series concludes with a lecture on The Last Campaign (April 26). The series is sponsored by the Friends & Foundation, St. Helena Public Library.

Admission: Free.

Details: SHPL.org or 963-5244.

LE JAZZ HOT AT WHITE BARN

Le Jazz Hot will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 16, at the White Barn at 2727 Sulphur Springs Ave. Known in France as Jazz Manouche, the music of Le Jazz Hot celebrates the renowned and beloved Romani jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt and the tunes of 1930s Paris.

Tickets: $35.

Details: 987-8225 or TheWhiteBarn.org.

YOUTH SYMPHONY HOLDS RED GALA

The Napa Valley Youth Symphonys Red Gala will be from 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, April 16, at Lincoln Theater, 100 California Drive in Yountville. This years gala includes a very personal concerto by Angel Romero, a celebrated soloist, composer and conductor who debuted with the Los Angeles Philharmonic at the age of 16, performing Joaquin Rodrigos Concierto de Aranjuez, and has since performed around the world. Romero will be accompanied by the Napa Valley Youth Symphony, as well as Vivaldis Concerto for Guitar in D Major.

Tickets: $25-$75, or $130 for the concert and VIP dinner.

Details: NVYSO.org or 227-9997.

PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW AT NVC

Award-winning photographers and editors Geir and Kate Jordahl will bring their love of books and images to the next PhotoEye presentation from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 21, at the Napa Valley College boardroom, building 1500, at the main campus in Napa. The Jordahls are the founders of PhotoCentral, a community program and facility of the Hayward Area Recreation District offering classes and workshops for photographers. Both hold masters degrees in photography from Ohio University and have been teaching photo classes for 32 years. Their photographs have been exhibited internationally in collections including the Bibliotheque Nationale de France and the Yosemite Museum. They were Artists-in-Residence for Yosemite National Park in 1993.

Admission: Free.

LIVE SHAKESPEARE AT OPERA HOUSE

NapaShakes will present New Yorks acclaimed Fiasco Theaters production of William Shakespeares comedic romance Cymbeline Friday, April 22, and Saturday, April 23, at the Napa Valley Opera House, 1030 Main St. in Napa. Set in ancient Britain during the Roman invasion, Cymbeline tells of a beautiful princess separated from her beloved, the cruel stepmother who tries to foil her, a credulous husband duped by an adversary, and an exiled nobleman who kidnaps a kings sons. A young ensemble of six versatile actors resolves the twisted fates of 14 characters at lightning-speed, with live music from a cappella to bluegrass. The show is suitable for most ages, with mild stage violence, sword fighting and brief nudity. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. April 22, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. April 23.

Tickets: $65 general; $45 for kids 16 and under.

There will also be a cast party at 10 p.m. April 23, with $25 tickets benefiting NapaShakes.

ST. HELENA CHORAL SOCIETY PERFORMS

The St. Helena Choral Society will present A Tapestry of Music at 7 p.m. Saturday, April 23, at the St. Helena Elementary School auditorium. The concert will include the Jazz @ 7 vocal ensemble singing a variety of jazz and swing tunes, followed by St. Helena High School graduate Tyler Johnson playing Bachs Piano Concerto, and concluding with the St. Helena Chamber Choir performing Gabriel Faures Requiem Mass with orchestra and soloists Eileen Hunt and Ted Von Pohle.

Tickets: $20 adults/$10 children and students. Available at the Napa Valley Coffee Roasting Company in St. Helena and Napa.

PAUL KOS SOLO EXHIBIT AT DI ROSA

Equilibrium, a new exhibit at di Rosa exploring the work of Bay Area conceptual artist Paul Kos, opens with a reception at 4-6 p.m. Saturday, April 23, in di Rosas Gatehouse Gallery, 5200 Sonoma Highway in Napa. Considered a leading figure of Bay Area conceptual art, Kos was among the first artists in Northern California to create performance-based film and video works as well as participatory installations. The exhibit features sculpture, film, video, photography and works on paper. It will remain on display through Oct. 2.

Reception admission: Free.

SHAKESPEARE AT THE CAMEO

NapaShakes 2016 season of Shakespeare on Screen at the Cameo Cinema continues with the Globe on Screen production of Twelfth Night at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 24. The play stars Mark Rylance, winner of the 2016 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Bridge of Spies. This years season combines performances by two of Londons most acclaimed theater companies. Five productions captured live onstage at the Shakespeares Globe Theatre will join three star-studded performances filmed at The Garrick starring Kenneth Branaghs new theater company, featuring Judi Dench and Derek Jacobi. All eight productions are captured live in digital high-definition.

The season continues with:

June 19: The Duchess of Malfi (Globe on Screen in the Wanamaker Playhouse)

Aug. 21: Romeo & Juliet (starring Lily James, Richard Madden and Derek Jacobi)

Sept. 11: The Comedy of Errors (Globe on Screen)

Oct. 16: Titus Andronicus (Globe on Screen)

Nov. 20: The Entertainer (starring Kenneth Branagh)

PRINCESS STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY

Celebrate National Princess Week with Princess Storytime, featuring princesses Cinderella and Ariel, at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at the St. Helena Public Library. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their favorite royal attire for an evening of stories, music and treats.

Admission: Free.

Details: SHPL.org or 963-5244.

STRING QUARTET PLAYS BEETHOVEN

The Beethoven String Quartet Series concludes with the Cypress String Quartet performing at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Jarvis Conservatory, 1711 Main St. in Napa. The quartet will perform the String Quartet in E minor, Op. 59 No. 2; and String Quartet in A minor, Op. 132. The quartet consists of Cecily Ward, violin; Tom Stone, violin; Ethan Filner, viola; and Jennifer Kloetzel, cello.

Admission: $40 general admission.

ICONIC IMAGES OF SANTANA

An exhibit featuring 40 photographs by Jim Marshall of Carlos Santana and some of his bandmates continues through May at Mumm Napa, 8445 Silverado Trail in Napa. Jim Marshall Seen Through the Eyes of Carlos Santana is curated by Santana himself, and coincides with the release of Mumms Santana Savor sparkling wine. A portion of the proceeds from the wine will go to Santanas Milagro Foundation, which benefits underserved and vulnerable children in education, health and the arts.

NONSENSE AND VERSE WITH DAN GOODMAN

Dan Goodman will present Nonsense and Verse, a one-man show full of witty puns, musical numbers, reflections and recitations at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at Lincoln Theater, 100 California Drive in Yountville. The doors open at 2:06 p.m., with the show starting at 3:01 p.m. sharp.

Tickets: $18.
Four years ago, I rode the 50-mile route in the Wine Valley Cycle For Sight, Rotary Ride for Veterans. I had ridden in the event before and have since, but the ride was particularly memorable for me in 2012. It was held just days after my 84-year-old mother, Nancy Hibbard Brown Stoneberg, passed away. And I remember toasting her memory with beers at the end of the ride with my long-time cycling buddy, Mike Abbadessa.

My 90-year-old father, William Arthur Stoneberg Jr., passed away in December 2014 and last year was a tough one for me. I was missing my parents and I didnt ride much, only about half of what Ive done in years past.

Last week, I signed up for the Wine Valley Cycle For Sight, Rotary Ride for Veterans, which takes place April 16. It starts and ends at Justin-Siena High School in Napa and the 50-mile route goes up and over Mount Veeder.

Theres something special about riding with a large group of people  you pass slower riders and the faster ones pass you by as if youre standing still. I remember one organized ride when I was heading to Pope Valley from Lake Hennessey. As a large group passed me, I became a part of the group and felt like I was part of the Borg Collective from the long-running TV series Star Trek: The Next Generation.

Tim Cooney, ride director for the April 16 event, said some 1,200 riders have already signed up for the ride, which offers three distances: 15, 25 and 50 miles. He said hes expecting an additional 800 riders to sign up. Cost is $70 for adults, $25 for youth and $30 to attend the after-ride Wine Festival. Register for the ride and check out the routes at their website, cycle4sight.com.

For years Gary Rose, executive ride director, ran the event for Napas 20-30 Club. Then, after it wasnt held for several years, the Napa Rotary Club took it over, because Cooney said they were looking for a way to fund the Pathway Home Project at the California Veterans Home at Yountville and the Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind, which is located on Mount Veeder Road. (The 50-mile route goes near the camp and theres a rest stop located there, with absolutely killer cookies. Did I mention that the only reason to ride 50 miles is so that you can eat all the cookies, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and bananas that you want?)

Olivia Merz, a former EHC camper and current Counselor in Training, is riding with Team Lighthouse in Cycle For Sight this year. She sent the following note to Rose: I am riding this year because I love biking, and Cycle For Sight is a challenge that I have always wanted to conquer. Ive been told that I cant do a lot of things, and Cycle For Sight along with Enchanted Hills Camp have shown me I can do anything a fully sighted person can do. So any chance I have to raise money for EHC, I do. My favorite quote is from Helen Keller: Life is either a great adventure or nothing. I plan to make my life an amazing adventure no matter what people say.

It is quite an experience to see an EHC camper in full riding kit on the back of a tandem bike or at a rest stop with a white cane. I salute those riders  their courage is tremendous.

Cooney said it takes a couple hundred volunteers to put on a rolling party for 2,000 riders over 50 miles. Of course that includes the Napa Rotarians but also Daisy Scouts, Kiwanis Club members, 4-H groups, Sea Scouts and many others.

After the ride, a wine festival is held on the Justin-Siena grounds, with 30 wineries participating and eight to 10 restaurants selling food and four or five breweries pouring cold ones. The live music is provided by Pride & Joy, a soul and funk party band, based in Tiburon.

The money raised also supports the Pathway Home Project, which is a rehabilitation center that helps treat veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

It is based at the Veterans Home in Yountville and is a partnership between UCSF, the San Francisco office of the Veterans Administration and Napa Valley College, Cooney said. It is currently offering outpatient care to veterans.

Cooney said he sees how much the community cares about the Pathway veterans and last year, the Rotary Club raised and gave away $40,000. Who doesnt want to be a part of that? he asked. You get to go out and ride your bike through the beautiful Napa Valley while youre helping people. Thats not a hard sell, he said.
It sounds like pulling a prank on Luke Bryan after hes imbibed may not be in your best interest. At least that is what professional pranksters, Roman Atwood and Dennis Roady, learned when they were hired to pull a fast one on the Entertainer of the Year.

According to Atwood and Roady, Bryans record label, Capitol Nashville, hired them to prank the Spring Breaker during one of his Panama City events. However, the timing was seemingly off, because when Atwood and Roady went to follow through with their plan, Bryan wasnt down to play.

Atwood and Roady explained in an interview:

His record label flew us down to Panama City. We pulled off the prank, we executed it. He was doing a meet and greet with the sorority girls, hundreds of girls. We were playing two guys in the sorority so excited to meet Luke Bryan. The company set us up with a one on one. He was wasted. He was plowed. So I just start naming off everybody elses music. I was like Dude, your song Thunder Rolls blew my mind. I still listen to it to this day! He ends up storming off so pissed they wouldnt sign the release. They flew us down, they paid a lot for it.

Atwood and Roady continued to explain that when Bryan returned, they asked him if he had ever hooked up with Dolly Parton. And therein was the moment that Bryan went from zero to sixty.

He was so confused, and then the alcohol made him angry. And ten minutes after the interview we had with him, he had to come out and perform on stage. So were out in the crowd watching him.

Note to selves: If we ever want to prank Luke Bryan, 1) dont do it when he has been drinking and 2) just dont do it at all.

Listen to TMZs interview with Roman Atwood and Dennis Roady by clicking here.
Iranian MP: Iran will conduct military exercises wherever it deems necessary

Finnish delegation to visit Ankara to discuss NATO membership

Social media giants are likely to oppose Turkey's new law

Pastor steals $900,000 to buy stocks and car in U.S.

Lithuanian President Nauseda is named most popular politician in country

Charles III will embark on longest tour of world in history of royal family

Deputy Director of Institute of Oriental Studies of RAS: Baku's goal is that Karabakh has no Armenian population

Hurricane Roslyn in Pacific Ocean intensifies to third category

Italy's new prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, begins forming government

U.S. Treasury Department records budget deficit of over $429 billion in September

Why does Baku need aggravation on border with Armenia? Skakov assesses likelihood of new aggression

Iranian Foreign Minister: I had important meeting with Pashinyan in Armenia

Johnson spotted in economy class on flight from Dominican Republic to Britain

Armenian PM and European Parliament Resident Rapporteur for Armenia discuss Karabakh situation

Authorities in Kherson urge residents to immediately leave city

Russian expert: Baku's attempts to open corridor by force will cause negative response not only from IRI or Russian

Telegraph: Britain to send about 60 old tanks to NATO base in Germany for exercises

Artak Beglaryan: You will see me in new position

Netanyahu: Iran nuclear deal could bring Russia 'hundreds of billions'

Russia and Turkey begin to develop gas hub project

PM Pashinyan discusses agenda of bilateral relations with Iranian FM

Anna Hakobyan meets Armenians in Paris

Sargsyan: Recognition of Artsakh people's right for self-determination must be reflected in legal documents

Italy's first female prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, sworn in

Private jet goes missing off coast of Costa Rica

Times of India: India tests nuclear-capable Agni Prime missile

Spiegel: German Foreign Minister and Defense Minister ask to allocate 2.2 billion for military aid to Kiev

Deputy PM of Armenia and Head of Sharjah Heritage Institute discuss strengthening of Armenian-Emirati relations

Biden allows participation in U.S. presidential election in 2024

Secretary of Security Council of Armenia and representatives of AIISA discuss security issues

Kakhovka reservoir increases water discharges in case of possible destruction of HPP

Pashinian's spouse: Yesterday at Elysee Palace I was received by dear Brigitte Macron

At least 15 people killed in bus-truck collision in India

Explosion at Uzbek Defense Ministry depot injures 16 people

Armenian NA Speaker receives Iranian FM: Tehran opposes obstacles on border with friendly Armenia

President Harutyunyan receives group of members of Union of Artsakh Reserve Officers NGO

Newspaper: Armenia restores diplomatic ties with Hungary?

China hit by 5.5 magnitude earthquake

Armenian Defense Ministry denies Azerbaijani report on shelling, calling it disinformation

Blinken: Moscow is not interested in stopping aggression against Ukraine

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
All week, the G-word has been rattling around the foreign ministries of the world, ever since US Secretary of State John Kerry announced that Isis was committing genocide against Yazidis, Christians and Shia Muslims.

But theres a problem. These terrible atrocities are being committed on the very land and deserts upon which a far more terrible genocide of the Armenians was perpetrated just over a hundred years ago by the Turks, Robert Fisk, The Independent daily newspaper of Great Britains correspondent, wrote in an article.

And Turkey  heaven be praised  is now our good friend, Nato ally and, since this month, our bastion against the Muslim refugee invasion of Europe, the paper also states. All this, you see, is a bit embarrassing. The Yazidis and Christians of Iraq have certainly been massacred  including a few Armenian grandchildren of the 1915 survivors, although that hasnt cut much ice in the US  although the Shia Muslims of Iraq were being slaughtered in Iraq by the thousand during the latter half of Americas military occupation. The Shia, I suspect, have been given a bloodbath upgrade to genocide because Shia Iran agreed to a nuclear deal with the rest of the world. But back to Yazidis for a moment.

One of the worst genocides against this forlorn, centuries-old religion occurred in 1892 when the Turkish Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamid II targeted them for mass extermination. But the Sultan included among his victims tens of thousands of 19thcentury Armenians  whom Mr Kerry cannot bring himself to declare victims of genocide in the 20th century (although he did so for many years when he was a mere Senator). So earlier references to Yazidi extermination have to be left out of the Kerry narrative of history. The current Kerry mantra for the Armenian genocide is one of the worst atrocities of the 20thcentury.

Fisk recalled that US presidential candidate Hillary Clinton is going to be no help in all this.

She regularly condemned the Armenian genocide until she became Secretary of State, he added. Donald Trump has not yet entered this particular blood-boltered debate although his Trump hotel in Azerbaijan  a country which, like Turkey and (to its shame) Israel, denies the Armenian genocide  suggests that we shall be hearing from him soon.

All in all, then a pretty mess. Kerry tells us that Isis is genocidal by self-proclamation, by ideology and by actions as if the destruction of the Armenian people in 1915 was not  and is perfectly happy to label the dark forces of the Islamic Caliphate as genocidal themselves  which they clearly are.

The Americans are, in effect, blaming Isis for the genocide of a hundred thousand or more human beings while being too frightened to label the Armenian massacres of a million and a half souls as genocide lest it offend Isis sinister chums in Turkey.

Forget it: 75 million visas to Turkey in response to their $3-billion European bailout to block those refugees is enough to keep the Armenian mass graves of 1915 well and truly closed.
At a screening of a new documentary telling his life story, "Get in the Way: The Journey of John Lewis," Congressman Lewis drew laughs from a capacity crowd at Emory School of Law on March 26 when he noted of now being a film star, It is almost too much for a boy who grew up in rural Alabama, 50 miles from Montgomery, on a farm, preaching to chickens.

Though Lewis preaching would grow more sophisticated  he is a graduate of both Fisk University and American Baptist Theological Seminary in Nashville  he ultimately would make his mark as a man of action; the movement had its man of words in Lewis idol, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

The evening began with a welcome from Emory Law Dean Robert A. Schapiro, who honored Lewis as a man who has committed his life to the highest ideals of social justice and public service. Alluding to Lewis 2014 honorary doctor of laws degree from Emory, Schapiro proudly claimed him as an Emory lawyer  one of countless honors bestowed on Lewis, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President Obama in 2010.

A year ago the law schools relationship with Lewis further deepened when an anonymous donor gave $1.5 million to establish the John Lewis Chair in Civil Rights and Social Justice. The chair will be awarded to a distinguished scholar with a demonstrated commitment to upholding the rule of law through the study of civil rights.

The dean brought Emory President James Wagner to the stage, who reflected, It is right that this celebration is happening at a university. John Lewis belongs here  actually, he belongs anywhere that people struggle in good faith to explore ways to protect human rights and secure civil liberties.

Before the screening got underway, Hank Klibanoff James M. Cox Jr. Professor of Journalism  moderated a panel discussion that included the filmmaker, Kathleen Dowdey; Lewis; and Charles Floyd Johnson, executive producer of the documentary.

Dowdey revealed that she and Lewis met when she was making the 1988 documentary "Dawns Early Light: Ralph McGill and the Segregated South." She recalls being impressed not only by the stories Lewis told but how he told them, and she realized that he needed a voice to reach people more widely.

Although filming began in the early 1990s, funding issues meant that the film wasnt completed until 2015. The stop-and-start nature of the project suited Lewis, who said, It is good, from time to time, to relive some of your life. It tells you something about where you come from, where you are, and maybe where you are going.

The premiere took place last year at Washington University in St. Louis, where Johnson described everyone craning their necks to gauge the reaction of Congressman Lewis. They neednt have worried. Lewis describes being very moved by the results, especially by the comments of the colleagues in the film who fought with him on the front lines.

You will hear, said Lewis, Ambassador Andrew Young speaking out of the depth of his own being, speaking about Dr. King. Each time I think about it, I shed a tear.

In the way in a good way

The film takes its title from Lewis penchant, as his mother ruefully described it, for getting in the way. For a young man of Lewis background and skin color  growing up one of 10 children of sharecroppers before desegregation  the risks of challenging the existing system were many: beatings, arrests, even death, along with the fear that the family farm would be bombed or set on fire.

However, Lewis  seeing injustice all around him in White Only and Colored Only signs at public facilities  chose to ignore his mothers advice not to get in the way. As he said, I got in the way in a good way.

Lewis continued, I heard Rosa Parks. I heard the words of Dr. King on the radio and felt that he was speaking directly to me. The action of Rosa Parks and the leadership of Dr. King inspired me.

Lewis could see results beginning to shine through, as King later would say, the long night of captivity. Indeed, the Montgomery bus boycott that Parks sparked mobilized everyday people. In the end, it lasted 381 days, and 50,000 people demonstrated the power of their purse by walking everywhere they went, hardly minding the rain or snow.

At the age of 17, Lewis wrote to King. Soon thereafter, he headed to Fisk and began studying nonviolence with the Rev. James Lawson. One of Lewis professors had been with King at Morehouse and arranged for them to meet in Montgomery.

Kings first words to him were, Are you Lewis? He responded, John Robert Lewis, desperately hoping his full name would indicate a man of even greater substance. In the film, Young describes King sometimes being aloof with members of the movement, but not so with Lewis. King felt that Lewis was his true spiritual son.

"Get in the Way" deliberately highlights chapters of Lewis life where profound personal change occurred. For instance, unbeknownst to his family, Lewis became a leading figure in the Nashville sit-ins, which occurred from February to May 1960. His first one was at the Woolworths lunch counter, where students would spend the day waiting for service that never came and being arrested.

Lewis and his fellows were subject to demeaning epithets, had all manner of things poured on them, and were burned by cigarettes. Yet, Lewis reports, I held my head up. I felt so free. I felt that I had crossed over. And, indeed, when the trial of the students was at hand and 4,000 protestors showed up at City Hall, Mayor Ben West conceded that the lunch counters should be desegregated.

Despite his youth, Lewis soon became known as one of the Big Six of the civil rights movement, whose other members included King, James Farmer, A. Philip Randolph, Roy Wilkins and Whitney Young. Lewis assumed the leadership of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). As Eleanor Holmes Norton, also a SNCC member, comments in the film, John became the chair of SNCC out of sheer courage. We were the guerillas of the movement.

We cannot be patient

As Norton indicates, Lewis served the movement, for the most part, through action rather than oratory. However, at the March on Washington in August 1963  with a nation transfixed and an expected crowd of some 250,000  words mattered.

The speech that Lewis drafted for the day was fiery, uncompromising. The night before the march, however, it mistakenly was leaked to the press, and the movements leadership became concerned about seeming too strident. Specifically, Lewis was critical of the Kennedy administrations civil rights bill, which he described as too little and too late. Lewis also indicated that if the March on Washington didnt bring results, the protesters would call for a subsequent march through Dixie, the way Sherman did.

Lewis recalls a tense meeting with leadership the night before he was scheduled to deliver the speech. But the closing, with its reference to Sherman, stayed in until the speakers got to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. There, A. Philip Randolph and King prevailed on him, with King saying, This doesnt sound like you, John. Out of respect for them, Lewis changed the speech, a decision that he still defends. I wasnt angry about doing so, he says, but it is fair to say that as I wrote the speech, I reflected a sense of righteous indignation.

Its cuts notwithstanding, the speech is a powerful testament, proof that the man of action all along had an orators poetry in him. As he closes, Lewis rouses the crowd, saying, We shall splinter the segregated South into a thousand pieces and put them together in the image of God and democracy. Wake up, America, wake up. We cannot stop and we cannot be patient.

When the lights came up following the film, a visibly energized Lewis took questions from the audience. He was asked about ensuring other rights  for women and members of the LGBT community. His last question came from a small child asking about American immigration policy.

You are never too old or too young to be involved in seeking justice," Lewis responded. "If you see something that is not right, you have a moral obligation to change it.
Emory University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Claire E. Sterk announced today that Douglas A. Hicks has been appointed dean of Oxford College of Emory University. Hicks will assume his new role on July 15, 2016. He comes to Emory from Colgate University, where he has served as provost and dean of the faculty and currently is senior adviser for academic initiatives and professor of religion.

Oxford College is located on Emory's original 1836 campus in Oxford, Georgia. With an emphasis on a residential, liberal arts experience, it offers a distinctive, small-campus setting that allows first- and second-year college students to grow and thrive both academically and personally. The majority of these students continue their Emory undergraduate experience at Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Goizueta Business School, or the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory.

"Doug brings a distinguished career of teaching, collaborative leadership, and community building to Oxford College," says Sterk. "With a passion to shape young people as lifelong learners, he is an ideal person to lead Oxford College in reaching its aspirations to graduate students who see the world through a broad lens."

"I am delighted to be joining the Oxford College community, with its strong sense of place and educational mission. I am drawn to Oxford because it offers a unique and firm foundation in the liberal arts," Hicks says. "Through an intensive two-year experience, Oxford fosters students critical thinking and intellectual curiosity, preparing them to flourish in the rest of their time at Emory and their lives beyond. I look forward to collaborating with everyone in the Oxford community to provide the best education possible for our students."

Hicks rose through the faculty ranks at the University of Richmond to serve as professor of leadership studies and religion before joining the Colgate faculty. In addition to teaching, he served as provost and dean of the faculty at Colgate from 2012 to 2015 and was a key architect of the universitys strategic plan, which included priorities of internationalization, technological innovation, civic engagement and pedagogical development.

Hicks holds a PhD and MA in religion from Harvard and an MDiv from Duke. He was an exchange scholar in the Department of Religious Studies at Yale, and he began his academic career at Davidson College, earning an AB in economics.

A comprehensive process, led by the search firm Heidrick and Struggles, identified a dynamic and experienced group of candidates for the Oxford College dean from a national pool, and a search advisory committeechaired by Goizueta Business School Dean Erika Jameshelped narrow the field of candidates. Finalists met with Emory leaders and key constituents earlier this year.
13:08

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi has revealed that he does not believe in Lord Ram but has faith in Lord Shiv, Guru Nanak and Gautama the Buddha.



Gandhi stated this last week when he met 23 senior 'input editors' from TV channels for over an hour. At the meeting, he appeared very confident and his body language was relaxed.



Gandhi told the editors that he was ready to become party president whenever the decision is taken. But he doesn't believe in designations and hierarchies which can deter him from doing what he believes

is good for the party.



About his belief in Lord Shiv, Guru Nanak and Buddha, Rahul said it was because they were more practical.



Rahul Gandhi also called the 2014 election verdict, in which the Congress plunged to its lowest ever tally of 44 seats, was the best gift he has got because a lot of undesirable things got washed away.



On Narendra Modi



Rahul said Modi was a one-man show and that the people in his government were feeling

powerless to do things.



On Prashant Kishor Pandey



Commenting on election whizkid Prashant Kishors appointment by the Congress party, Rahul stated that he has a specific task, and nothing beyond that. He told the journalists, We know the issues we must raise, but Prashant is good at

packaging and marketing those issues.



On UP assembly polls



About the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections due in 2017, Rahul said the Congress cannot go with the Samajwadi Party. However, the

Bahujan Samaj Party may not give us the number of seats we want. If it agrees to give us what we want, like the Left in West Bengal, then we will work together.



On the JNU row



Rahul told the editors that many of his party colleagues, including

Randeep Surjewala, advised him not to go to JNU following the students arrest but nevertheless he decided to go there. Interestingly,

Surjewala sat in on the meeting with the input editors throughout and smiled when Rahul

mentioned this.



On Tamil Nadu



Rahul seemed surprised at Vijayakanths alliance with the People's Welfare Front.



Rahul Gandhi was confident till the last minute that the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam will get Vijayakanth on

board and that was why the AICC let Ghulam Nabi Azad go in for a deal

with Karunanidhi.



Sources in AICC now feel the sudden shift by Vijayakanth to the PWF came as a jolt to the DMK-led front.



Though AICC expects Karunanidhi to allot 65 to 80 seats for the Congress, it wants the Tamil Nadu unit to consider nothing less than 65 seats.



Why is Rahul holding off the record meetings with media?



Is he not confident about exposing his views and thinking process before

the 2019 elections? No one is ready to answer these questions.



Usually these interactions take place at the 12 Tughlak Road, Rahuls official bungalow. He spends two to three hours with the media in a relaxed manner, and selects some 10-15 topics on which he takes questions.



Surjewala, the AICC media cell incharge, sits in on these meetings while a few MBA students from foreign universities take notes by rotation.



The media is attracted by the free-flowing conversation which comes with the caveat: purely not for publication, which line Rahul keeps repeating during the course of his interactions.



So what is the purpose of Rahul meeting media-persons?



Since the 2014 Lok Sabha defeat Rahul Gandhi has been meeting media-persons for off-the-record conversations. So far there have been around 25 interactions at various levels, as in with editors, chiefs of bureaus, political editors, cartoonists, editorial writers, special correspondents, etc. In all, say sources, he would have met around 600 to 700 media-persons.



Through this exercise Rahul is said to have collected 50-60 major political issues.



Some media observers who have had a second round of meeting with Rahul Gandhi do not agree that he has graduated into a tall political leader. He repeats everything but does not have a focus, is what they feel.



So, will Rahul lead the 2019 campaign against Narendra Modi? Will he become a formidable force by then?



Certainly. according to a few top Congress leaders who confirm that Rahul has picked up issues. But in the next two or three years, if he concentrates on the Congress organisation, there will support for him from the ground level as the party does not currently have an organisation in 20-25 states. And where it does, it is ridden with groupism.


TOKYO: Highly magnetised, rapidly spinning neutron stars called magnetars can explain the energy source behind extremely unusual stellar explosions, calculations done by scientists have found.

Stellar explosions known as supernovae usually shine a billion times brighter than the Sun.

Super-luminous supernovae (SLSNe) are a relatively new and rare class of stellar explosions, 10 to 100 times brighter than normal supernovae.

But the energy source of their super-luminosity, and explosion mechanisms are a mystery and remain controversial amongst scientists.

A group of researchers led by Melina Bersten from Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe at Tokyo University tested a model that suggests that the energy to power the luminosity of two recently discovered SLSNe, SN 2011kl and ASASSN-15lh, is mainly due to the rotational energy lost by a newly born magnetar.

They analysed two recently discovered super-luminous supernovae: SN 2011kl and ASASSN-15lh.

"These supernova can be found in very distant universe, thus possibly informing us the properties of the first stars of the universe," said Kavli IPMU principal investigator Ken'ichi Nomoto,

The team performed numerical calculations to explore the magnetar hypothesis.

It found both explosions could be understood in the framework of magnetar-powered supernovae.

"These two extreme super-luminous supernovae put to the test our knowledge of stellar explosions," added Bersten in a paper published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters in January.

To confirm the team's calculations, further observations would need to be carried out when the material ejected by the supernova is expected to become thin.

The most powerful telescopes, including the Hubble Space Telescope, will be required for this purpose.

If correct, these observations will allow scientists to probe the inner part of an exploding object and provide new insight on its origin and evolution of stars in the Universe.

Read Also: Cancelling Train Tickets To Be Just A Phone Call Away

India's Defence Procurement Policy To Be Launched Online: Parrikar
"Aircraft conducted several sorties against Taliban hideouts at 6.00 a.m. (local time) in Dasht-e-Archi district on Monday," Xinhua quoted the official as saying.

The raids took place amid ongoing cleanup operations in the district and adjoining areas.

Taliban militants have yet to make comments.

--Indo-Asian News Service py/vt

( 82 Words)

2016-03-28-12:59:31 (IANS)
"I would like to take this opportunity to invite defence manufacturing companies from across India and the world to come and set up shop in Goa under the 'Make in India' programme," Parsekar said while speaking at the inauguration of the Defence Expo 2016 at Naqueri plateau in South Goa, 35 km from here.

"Goa is one of the fastest growing and industrially advanced state in the country. We have significant presence of several public and private sector manufacturing facilities in defence as well as aerospace segments," Parsekar said.

Promising convenient licensing procedures, Parskar said his "government had ensured ease of doing business by creating an investment promotion board which acts as a single window for all permission and licences required to operate an industry".

He also said Goa was one of the top tourism destinations in the country, which helped rejuvenate visitors and could be an ideal foil to the Make in India programme.

"Make in India has to be accompanied by rejuvenate in Goa," he said.

--Indo-Asian News Service maya/sd/vt

( 204 Words)

2016-03-28-12:49:33 (IANS)
"The Delhi government's thrust on education sector, skill development and vocational training will perk up the infrastructure for education system and develop industry-ready workforce in the national capital," said ASSOCHAM.

Besides, the government's focus on improving transport infrastructure, setting up hostels for working women, promoting cleanliness in the city are certain other laudable proposals highlighted in the Delhi budget for 2016-17, said the ASSOCHAM. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Rangapara in Sonitpur district of Assam yesterday, came down heavily on the Congress regime in the state and alleged that the ruling party had betrayed the people and their aspirations in the last 15 years.

Prime Minister Modi said that there is a strong wind of change in Assam which will uproot the Congress and its 15 years of misrule.

BJP president Amit Shah is scheduled to address public rallies today. Shah will hold public meetings at Dhakuakhana, Nauboicha, Sootea and Dhekiajuli.

Adequate security arrangements have been made across the state to avoid occurrence of any untoward incident.

The Election Commission has announced two-phase polling for the 14th Assam assembly elections on April 4 and 11. The votes will be counted on May 19. (ANI)
Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande reminded the Congress that it had imposed an emergency across the nation in 1975 when Indira Gandhi was Prime Minister, and hence, should not be crying foul.

"The Congress had imposed an emergency across the country during Indira Gandhi's rule. Harish Rawat ji has not been able to handle the situation in Uttarkhand. Even the Congress had failed miserably to reign in its leaders, so President's rule had to be imposed. The steps taken by the Centre is right," Kayande told ANI.

Following the imposition of president's rule, Rawat has called for a meeting of state Congress legislators in Dehradun today.

The Congress Party is all set to challenge the imposition of president's rule in court.

Uttarakhand State Assembly Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal, on Sunday disqualified nine Congress legislators who had rebelled against the Rawat-led regime in the state.

The decision to disqualify the nine legislators has reduced the strength of the 70-member assembly to 61.

After almost seven days of verbals between the Congress Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the political crisis in Uttarakhand, president's rule was imposed in the state on Sunday.

The recommendation for central rule was made by the Union Cabinet at its emergency meeting last night.

The Congress had dubbed the cabinet meeting as the last phase of a drama scripted by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). (ANI)
Registrar M. Sudhakar Rao told ANI that the situation within the university complex was found to be conducive for resumption of classes.

Earlier, angry students had staged protests against Vice Chancellor Podile for going on leave during the ruckus created in the wake of the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

A case was registered against 27 students including two faculty members of the university in connection with the incident.

Podile was under fire for his handling of the suspension of the five Dalit students, one of whom, Rohith Vemula, committed suicide on January 17.

Demanding the vice chancellor's resignation, the students had demanded his resignation.

Vemula, 26, had hung himself in his hostel room at the university campus in January, five months after being suspended for allegedly attacking an ABVP leader. (ANI)
Broadening Act East with Timor Leste. EAM @SushmaSwaraj meets FM Hernani Coelho in Delhi, external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted and posted a picture of the two leaders.

Coelho, who arrived here on Sunday, is also scheduled to meet Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh and union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda later on Monday.

Earlier in the day, Sushma Swaraj also met Srgjan Kerim, former foreign minister of Macedonia.

--Indo-Asian News Service ab/vt

( 108 Words)

2016-03-28-13:33:33 (IANS)
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi today visited the Uttar Pradesh capital and prayed at Deva Sharif in adjoining Barabanki.He had earlier postponed his trip to Lucknow, when district authorities refused to permit him to address a public rally on March 17.Mr Owaisi reached Lucknow this morning and directly went from the airport to Deva Sharif, about 40 km away.He offered 'chadar' at the shrine and prayed for his party's success in the coming assembly polls in the state next year.Later he rushed to Nadwa in the stare capital to meet the rector there." Mr Owaisi has returned back to Lucknow from Deva Shariff at 1300 hrs and went directly to Nadwa .Thereafter he will go to meet prominent Shia cleric Kalbe Jawwad at his residence at 1400 hrs ," said Mr Shaukat Ali, the state president of the party. He said the AIMIM president will meet the party workers and leaders at Chanda Palace guest house in Bulaki-ki-adda at 1550 hours. Mr Ali said Mr Owaisi will return back to New Delhi by evening flight. Earlier, Lucknow district administration had denied permission to Mr Owaisi for holding public meeting and road show in the state capital on March 17. However, no written orders were issued by the district administration for denying permission. Citing law and order problem, the administration orally conveyed to state leaders of AIMIM that it was unable to provide security to Owaisi so permission can not be granted.AIMIM president had already been denied permission for 16th time in a row in last three years to hold public rally in Agra, Azamgarh, Allahabad and Lucknow. The AIMIM has been upbeat with its performance in the recently held by poll for Bikapur Assembly seat in Faizabad district in February last. The AMIM candidate from Dalit community finished fourth after SP, RLD and BJP candidates. Mr Owaisi had also addressed two election meetings in Bikapur. UNI MB ADG RP1532 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0329-656609.Xml
Police said gold trader Madhukar alias Sanjay hailing from Maharashtra has been stabbed to death by Rajan (64) of Randathani in this district after a dispute over payment.

Police quoting preliminary investigation said non-payment for work carried out by Rajan was the cause of the murder adding the accused has been arrested in connection with the case.UNI PCH KVV ADB1550

-- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-656813.Xml
Police sources said the employees of Ganiram Harnand petrol pump were going towards the bank to deposit the cash when the miscreants fired upon them and also hurled bombs due to which they died near Chandmari Masjid.

The deceased have been identified as Anup Kumar De (40) and Chandrashekhar Pandey (25). Upon receiving the information, a police team reached the spot and recovered three empty cartridges from there.

Police has refused to divulge the cash amount. However, sources maintained that the sum could be huge as after four days of bank closure, the amount was being sent for deposit. Further probe was on.UNI XC-AK PL AE VN1607

-- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0211-656773.Xml
Prime Minister Modi will visit Belgium, the US and Saudi Arabia during his five-day three-nation tour beginning on March 30.

"The recent attacks in Belgium will be the starting point of the prime minister's engagement in Brussels," a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official said during a briefing ahead of the visit.

The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels, on Zaventem airport and the Maalbeek Metro station, claimed over 30 lives and left at least 270 people injured.

In Brussels, Modi will hold bilateral talks with the Belgian leadership and also attend the 13th India-EU summit. The last India-EU summit was held in 2012.

Modi will later travel to Washington, D.C., for the Nuclear Security Summit where he is likely to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

The external affairs ministry spokesperson, however, declined to say if Modi and Sharif would meet in Washington.

I'm sure that the prime minister would have some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit, MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Many of the meetings are a work in progress. It will depend on the schedules of the two leaders, he added.

--Indo-Asian News Service rn-ab/vt

( 240 Words)

2016-03-28-17:11:32 (IANS)
Endorsing the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday said that the previous Harish Rawat-led Congress government had murdered democracy between March 18 and March 27. He pointed out that Article 356 can be invoked only if the President is satisfied that there are grounds for believing that the governance of the State cannot be carried on in accordance with the Constitution. "Having plunged the State into a serious Constitutional crisis by continuing a Government, which should have quit after the failure of the Appropriation Bill, and further complicating the crisis, Jaitley alleged, "The Chief Minister started allurement, horse-trading and disqualification with a view to altering the composition of the House." This leaves the State without any approved financial expenditure with effect from April 1; and now, it is incumbent upon the Central Government to ensure that steps are taken under Article 357 to authorise expenditure of the State," he added. In a Facebook post, 'A State Without A Budget', the Finance Minister said the Constitutional breakdown was compounded further after the Speaker decided to disqualify some members even after the Assembly had been put under suspended animation and the decision was made public. "On March 18th," he said, "it appears that 35 members (27 from the BJP and nine Congress rebels) voted against the Appropriation Bill and 32 in favour. There is documentary evidence both prior and subsequent to the Assembly Session to suggest that these 35 members asked for a Division of Votes. The proceedings of the Assembly circulated in writing, establishes the charge that a Division was asked for and yet it was claimed that the Appropriation Bill has been passed without a vote." Stating that there are strong facts to suggest that the Appropriation Bill was actually defeated, Jaitley added, "This is an unprecedented case of a Speaker declaring a failed Appropriation Bill as passed and then failing to certify falsehood. This leaves the State without any approved financial expenditure with effect from April 1. What better evidence do we need of a breakdown of Constitution?" "As there are strong facts to suggest that the Appropriation Bill was defeated, and as consequence, the Government had to resign, said Jaitley, adding: two further consequences flow out of this - first, the Appropriation Bill sanctioning expenditure from April 1 was not approved; and, second, if the Bill was defeated, the continuation of the Government subsequent to March 18 is unconstitutional. "It is to be noted that till today, neither the Chief Minister nor the Speaker have forwarded a certified copy of the Appropriation Bill to the Governor. Obviously, there is no assent of the Governor to the Appropriation Bill," he pointed out. In any case, all facts surrounding the alleged discussion and passage of the Appropriation Bill clearly indicate its non-passage, said Jaitley, adding that there is a cloud and a serious doubt about the Bill. "There is a complete breakdown of the Constitutional machinery in as much as the Government, which should have resigned on March 18 with the failure of Bill, has decided to continue. As of today, there is no Appropriation Bill certified by the Speaker which has received assent of the Governor," he said, noting that if it is Speaker's case that the rebels voted in favour of the Appropriation Bill and, hence, it has been passed, then "the rebels could not have been disqualified". Stating that the Congress party in Uttarakhand split after a section of the leadership alleged that they were dissatisfied both with the Chief Minister and the central leadership of the party, Jaitley added that on March 18, the majority was declared to be a minority and vice versa while on March 27, the composition of the House was attempted to be changed in violation of the Constitution to convert a minority into a majority. (ANI)
Seven residents of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) arrived here while eleven Kahmiris crossed over to other side of the Line of Control (LoC) to meet their relatives, separated in 1947. As many as 19 returnees also crossed sides in the Karvan-e-Aman bus, operating between Srinagar and PoK since April 7, 2005 after India and Pakistan decided to allow travel of state subjects from both sides on "Travel Permits", instead of International passports. Official sources told UNI that seven PoK residents, including two women and as many children arrived at Kaman post, the last Indian military post on this side of the LoC in Uri sector today. Four Kashmiri residents, three of them women, also returned here after meeting their relatives, separated due to partition. They said eleven Kashmiri residents also crossed over to PoK in the weekly bus service. They included three women, sources said, adding 15 PoK residents, who had arrived here in previous buses, also returned to their homes. They included nine women.UNI BAS QAB AE NS1714 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-656846.Xml
The Supreme Court on Monday asked the central government to place before it the report on "Women and Law " by a high-level committee that had undertaken the assessment of family laws with focus on laws relating to liability, divorce, children custody, inheritance and succession. Asking the government to submit the report which has not been made public yet, a bench of Chief Justice T.S. Thakur and Justice Uday Umesh Lalit gave it and other parties, including All India Muslim Personal Law Board, six weeks to respond to the suo motu motion and a plea by Shayara Bano challenging the validity of the triple 'talaq' under the Muslim personal law. Senior counsel Amit Singh Chadha appearing for Shayara Bano told the court that report by the high level committee on "Women and Law" has not been made public yet. Besides asking the government to file the report, the bench asked it to respond to All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) contention opposing any interference by the court into Muslim personal law in respect of Muslim women rights concerning marriage, divorce and maintenance. The court asked all the parties to file their respective responses in the course of the hearing of the matter relating to gender equality of Muslim women that was directed to be taken up a PIL by a benche of the top court on October 16, 2015 and a plea by Shayara Bano seeking declaration that triple 'talaq' was illegal and unconstitutional. She has sought direction to the government and others to declare that the "practices of talaq-e-bidat, nikah halala and polygamy under Muslim personal laws as illegal, unconstitutional" and being violative of the fundamental rights guaranteed under the constitution. Shayara Bano has said that triple 'talaq' was illegal as it was in violation of the constitution's articles 14 (Equality before law), 15 (Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth), 21 (Protection of life and personal liberty) and 25 (Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion). Opposing Bano's plea, the AIMPLB in its intervention application has contended that the "foundational source of Muslim personal law are holy Quran and hadith of the Prophet and thus it can't fall within the preview of the expression 'laws in force' as mentioned under article 13 of the constitution and hence its validity can't be tested on challenge based on fundamental rights. Contending that if apex court lays down special rules for Muslim women in matters concerning marriage, divorce and maintenance, it would amount to judicial legislation, AIMPLB said that it was not permissible. It said the rights of Muslim Women are already protected by Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986 and the same has been upheld by the top court in 2001. In such a scenario, if apex court "prescribes other parameters to govern the rights of Muslim women, it would amount to judicial legislation which is not permissible" and would be violative of the doctrine of separation of powers. It further contended that article 44 which envisages the Uniform Civil Code was only a directive principle of the State policy and was not enforceable. "Article 44 recognises the existence of different codes applicable to different religions in the matter of personal law and permits their continuance until the state succeeds in its endeavour to secure for all citizens a UCC," AIMPLB said in its intervention application. The AIMPLB has said that the framers of the constitution were fully conscious of the difficulties in enforcing UCC and thus they deliberately refraind from interfering with the provision of the personal law and laid down only a directive principle. The apex court had on February 5, 2016 allowed Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind to intervene in the suo motu PIL relating to gender equality of Muslim women. --Indo-Asian News Service pk/vd ( 654 Words) 2016-03-28-18:43:31 (IANS)
Facing protests over his return, University of Hyderabad (UoH) Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao on Monday said it was painful to see students and a couple of faculty members spending time in jail. He appealed to students to rise above anger and confrontation and desist from violence. The vice chancellor made the appeal minutes after a city court granted bail to 25 students and two faculty members who were arrested police during a protest over his return on March 22. Appa Rao said it was "very painful" to see them spending time in jail. "It's very painful to see some of our students and couple of faculty members from campus spend time in jail. While I wanted to intervene, legal system is beyond our control and jurisdiction. "I request the students to resist any temptation for violence on campus or anywhere else, as it would not yield any productive outcomes. Please restrain yourself from causing pain to yourself, your parents and the university," said Appa Rao in a written and video appeal. "You have all other avenues to express yourself. I humbly wish all students & student unions to sit together and resolve issues. I & my team will wholeheartedly support you in this endeavour," he added. A section of students are demanding his removal and his arrest, holding him responsible for the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula. He had proceeded on leave on January 24 after he was named in First Information Report (FIR) booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act. Appa Rao's return on March 22 led to fresh bout of protest and violence with Joint Action Committee of Social Justice, an umbrella group of 14 student bodies, refusing to accept him as the head of the institution. Stating that University of Hyderabad is one of the prestigious universities in this country and has a legacy of excellence, he noted that recent incidents were painful not just for administration but also to thousands of students on the campus and many more thousands of university alumni across the world. "I request you to rise above anger and confrontational attitude as students of higher education in this university. I and my team wish to lead by example in this area, with our willingness to be always open for a dialogue with all students, which we have always been. Let's work towards resolution, instead of confrontation. Let's together build bridges than walls in this university," the VC added. --Indo-Asian News Service ms/vd ( 424 Words) 2016-03-28-18:51:34 (IANS)
Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday demanded that the Centre confer the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour, on Veer Savarkar and thus "shut up the Congress permanently" in the ongoing row over the revolutionary leader. "The Congress has insulted not only Veer Savarkar, but all other revolutionaries. Now the government must immediately announce Bharat Ratna for Veer Savarkar and shut up the Congress permanently," Thackeray said in a statement. On the Bharatiya Janata Party's demand that the Congress must apologise for its remarks on Savarkar, failing which the party would agitate outside the homes of all Congress legislators in Mumbai, Thackeray said this "drama" should be stopped once and for all by announcing Bharat Ratna for the revolutionary. "There won't be need for any agitation after that," he said. "The (Narendra) Modi government must show guts and confer Bharat Ratna on Veer Savarkar. In the past, the Shiv Sena has agitated several times over insults to Veer Savarkar, thrown slippers at Mani Shankar Aiyar, stopped parliament. "In the past, those who remained aloof from our agitation are now talking about agitating for Veer Savarkar. This is a good development, but, at least now, show some courage," he said. Thackeray's statement came in the wake of a tweet by the Congress on March 23, hailing the 85th anniversary of martyrdom of the trio of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev and terming Veer Savarkar as a "traitor" which sparked a political storm. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had recently said in the Lok Sabha that "(Mahatma) Gandhi is ours, Savarkar is yours", which was strongly protested by the BJP members. Born in Nashik in Maharashtra, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, later known as Swatantraveer Savarkar, was a revolutionary and Hindu nationalist who was jailed in the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by the British. Educated in Pune and London, he died in Mumbai on February 26, 1966, aged 82. --Indo-Asian News Service qn/pm/bg ( 334 Words) 2016-03-28-18:55:31 (IANS)
Former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat met Governor KK Paul today with 32 legislators, seeking consent for the Appropriation Bill and a chance to prove majority in the Assembly, even though President's rule has been imposed in the state. Talking to mediapersons, Mr Rawat said that he had requested the Governor to give his assent to the Appropriation Bill passed by the Assembly on March 18 and had also handed over a list of 34 MLAs, 32 of whom were present on the occasion, as proof of his party's majority in the Assembly, which at present is in suspended animation.''We impressed upon the Governor that my Congress government is in majority and should be given a chance to prove it on the floor of the House as he himself had directed earlier,'' Mr Rawat said.Mr Rawat also stressed that the Governor was provided with all supporting documents that showed that the Appropriation Bill was passed on March 18 according to parliamentary and assembly norms and conventions.''We submitted before the Governor that the budget was prepared by the elected government as a document representing the aspirations of people of Uttarakhand and requested him to grant his assent to the bill,'' Mr Rawat said. He said that he was upset by media speculation that Parliament could be asked to pass the budget for Uttarakhand. ''Such provision can not be resorted to, when Assembly is in session and elected government also existed,'' Mr Rawat claimed. The Governor, Mr Rawat said, had heard them out patiently. UNI JN RJ RP1843 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0098-657105.Xml
The Supreme Court today refused to hear a plea filed by an NGO, seeking deportation and cancellation of visa given to controversial Bangladeshi novelist, Taslima Nasreen.Dismissing the appeal filed by NGO, 'All India Human Rights and Social Justice Front', a division bench, comprising Chief Justice Tirath Singh Thakur and Justice Uday Umesh Lalit, said, "Do you think that we do not have any other work to do". Earlier, the Delhi High Court had dismissed the PIL of the NGO after noting that there was no public interest in the matter. The HC order was challenged by the NGO before the apex court.The NGO had moved the Apex Court seeking cancellation of Nasreen's visa alleging that she has been violating the Foreigners Order of 1948 and the Foreigners Act of 1946 by airing her views on every issue without prior permission.Nafis Ahmad Siddiqui, lawyer and President of the NGO, contended before the Top Court that Nasreen, who is living in exile since 1994, has been allegedly making various controversial statements, besides doing professional work in India. He sought deportation and cancellation of visa, given by the Indian authorities, to Nasreen.Siddiqui also told the Apex Court that the authorities are granting Nasreen the visa for a period beyond 180 days which is not permissible and thereby it should be cancelled.UNI XC RJ RP1832 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0098-657144.Xml
Strongly condemning the attack in Lahore in Pakistan that left more than 70 innocent people dead and hundreds injured, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation organised a peaceful protest in the summer capital, Srinagar today. Holding playcards in their hands and raising slogans against the Lahore attack, the JKLF leaders and activists expressed their anguish over the criminal act of terrorism in the Civil Lines near here. JKLF vice-chairman Advodate Bashir Ahmad Bhat, said the protest is a symbolic expression of Kashmiri's solidarity with Lahore victim's . Bhat said, "humans cannot kill humans like this. Islam teaches us humanity and humility and Lahore attack has tarnished both Humanity and humility. While praying for the victims he also prayed for their bereaved families." Meanwhile, JKLF chairman Mohammad Yaseen Malik in a statement said the attack in Lahore has tarnished every human heart and mind. While terming the attack as an attack on whole humanity, JKLF chairman said "killing and wounding innocent people, children and women can only be termed as barbaric and inhuman and people who do these kind of criminal acts can only be named as savages." He said Islam and all other religions have clearly prohibited attacking innocents, children and women. Even Islam teaches us to protect trees and greenery during war times, he said and expressed condolences to the bereaved families who lost their kith and kin in yesterday's attack. He said people of Kashmir stand by their bereaved families. UNI BAS AE NS1755 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-656876.Xml
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has given these directives in view the likely menace to the crop of cotton in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan from white fly, an official statement said today.

White fly had inflicted tremendous damage to cotton last year in Punjab and Haryana.

To save crop of cotton from the likely menace of white fly, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has taken various preventive measures.

Elaborate assessment and analysis has been carried out about the loss inflicted last year.

The sowing process of cotton has set in the beginning of April in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

Central Cotton Research Regional Centre, Sirsa (Haryana) recently held a meeting in which officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and senior officials of Departments of Agriculture from Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan reviewed the preventive measures to check the menace of white fly.

After the review, the Union Government has forwarded extensive directives to Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

The directives say that the sowing process may be carried out within the precincts of scheduled timeframe, only recommended seeds might be utilised, close watch might be kept on the movement of pests and timely sprinkling to check its spread.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research has also provided a list of the pests resist seeds for the farmers. This year emphasis is being given on the timely sowing of cotton. UNI NY RSA 2004

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: The Miyapur Judicial magistrate here today granted bail to 25 students and two faculty member of University of Hyderabad (UoH), who were arrested on March 22 in connection with ransacking of furniture in the office of Vice Chancellor, Appa Rao and also at his official residence soon after he resumed office on Tuesday last. Prof. Appa Rao had gone on long leave after a Ph.D student Rohit Vemula committed suicide on the university premises. The XXV Metropolitan Magistrate at Miyapur court granted bail to all students and faculty members, who submitted their bail petitions earlier, after the prosecution informed the court that they are not going to oppose their bail applications. The prosecution also informed in the court that the situation at the university was under control. All the students and the two faculty members were released on producing of sureties of Rs 5,000 each. The court also directed students and the faculty to appear before Gachibowli Station House Officer once in a week.UNI KNR KVV AK 2002 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-657396.Xml
Talking to media persons here, NCP spokesperson Nawab Mallik said, ''The victim has stated in a statement to the police that Pandey allegedly said Tawde ne to chhod diya, mai tujhe nahi chhoduga (Tawde spared you, I won't).''

According to the statement, both were allegedly involved in the case, so FIR should be registered against the two, he said.

A training camp of BJP's Yuva Morcha was held at Mathura in Uttar Pradesh between March four and six. During that period a woman activist was allegedly molested by Pandey.

BJP city unit president Ashish Shelar has dissolved the youth wing committee after the woman worker lodged the complaint of molestation to the party.

The victim has stated in the letter that she was molested by Pandey and other colleague outside her hotel room at Mathura. UNI ST SS RSA VN2146

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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today said that his government is committed to ensuring that farmers get good remunerative prices of their farm produce because this state can progress only if the farmers are prosperous and happy."Agriculture is the backbone of state's economy. If farmers are not happy how can a state progress. This is my firm belief that only that those state can progress where farmers are happy and prosperous. Prosperity of any state passes through its villages," Mr Yadav said while inaugurating Agro-Fest organised by the state government in collabortion with PHDCCI in Saifai .The CM said that his government has formulated agri-policy, horticulture policy and has introduced a new mechanisms to allow farmers to go for diversification. Poultry and fisheries are one of them. The government is promoting agrobased industry so that farmers can get market of their produce at their door step," he said."Kaamdhenu Yojana is yet another innovative scheme where government extends help to farmers to set up dairy. They can collect milk and sell it off to the state-run dairies at competitive price. This scheme has generated employment at the village level. In other words, financial condition of farmers is improving very fast. This in turn will help the state to march on the path of development," he said.He also invited private players to invest in farm sector saying Government has declared next fiscal as Kisan Varsh so that industries could get all the facilities at one go.Elaborating on the achievements of the government, he said "Samajwadi Party has launched schemes for the development of urban and rural areas". "Social cover for the poor has been extended through Samajwadi Pension scheme that has benefitted 45 lakh families last year and would benefit 55 lakh families in the next fiscal".UNI MB CJ RSA 2211 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657657.Xml
Although the Central Government had promised that Lucknow will be part of the Smart City campaign, unfortunately its name is missing from the list of cities in phase one. Non Government Organisation- Green Lucknow has submitted smart city proposal for offline citizen engagement and polling to Nagar Ayukt of Lucknow Municipal Corporation. The Lucknow Municipal Corporation appointed General Secretary of Green Lucknow Shashank Sharma as the volunteer for the campaign. Mr. Shashank Sharma also met the President and Mayor of Lucknow for initiating offline proposal. The objective of this meeting was to gain support and maximise the participation of citizens in this campaign. To include the representatives and leaders of the people and to bring about the social impact of this campaign, a meeting of all BJP parshads for campaigning of citizen engagement was called in a short notice. The meeting was addressed today by Mayor Dr. Dinesh Sharma and Former MP Lalji Tandon along with Shashank Sharma. Speaking at the meet, Mr. Tandon said, "We highly appreciate the efforts of Green Lucknow and their initiatives towards making Lucknow a Smart City. I would request the Mayor and other government officials to kindly cooperate with Green Lucknow and help in making Lucknow a Smart City and a better place for its citizens." The General Secretary of Green Lucknow shared his dream of making Lucknow a Smart City. He invited the youth of Lucknow and said "Taking Lucknow to the next level and making it a Smart City should be the agenda of the Youth of Lucknow. Lucknow has given us so much, it is high time that we give back to our ancient city with the help of our leaders and citizens." This meeting was called in Mr Tandon's office to seek support of all and everyone for this good cause. UNI MB CJ RSA 2225 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657659.Xml
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today said there could be export of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) or Akash and Bramhos missles provided there is an approval from the Ministry of External Affairs, Addressing a press conference after inaugurating the ninth edition of Defence Expo 2016, Mr Parrikar said,'' I don't mind exporting Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Akash or Bramhos subject to security concerns, approval of the Ministry of External Affairs and government and other agencies. We have given clearance to export ten per cent of the products if they get export orders for the same. Earlier the production was 100 per cent for the defence forces but 90 per cent will go to the defence forces, and the rest ten per cent can be exported subject to defense forces not being starved. To a question, Mr Parrikar said,"India is already an exporter of defence products. During the current financial year we have exported items worth Rs 2000 crore in spite of the fact that 2/3rd of the items were taken out of the list of defence. They have been converted into general licensing. If those items are taken into account the amount would be Rs 3000 to 4000 crore. He also announced that Tejas squadron could be brought in the current year or early next year. ''Currently production limit is eight units and by next year it is expected to become 16 units ,'' UNI AKM CJ RSA 2219 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657667.Xml
''Once clearance is given from the senior BJP leadership to attend the ceremony, Mehbooba Mufti may take oath as first woman chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir on April 4,'' reliable sources here told UNI.

Ms Mufti will be the 13th chief minister of the state.

The alliance government will not assume office before March 31 and this became clear when Governor N N Vohra headed State Administrative Council today approved a 'Vote on Account' for a period of three months.

Fiftysix-year-old Mehbooba met the Governor on March 26 and staked claim to form the government with the support of 25 BJP MLAs.

The PDP has 27 MLAs in the 87-member state Assembly.

Sources said Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh may attend the ceremony.

Governor's Rule was imposed in Jammu and Kashmir on January 8 after the death of chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on January 7 at the AIIMS in New DElhi.UNI VBH CJ RSA 2229

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The Yimchungru Tribal Council (YTC) has recently appealed to all the Naga Political Groups (NPGs or undergrounds) to bear in mind the collective approach in order to find an honourable solution acceptable to all and which must be sincerely explored exclusively with all cross-sections of the Naga people.In a statement YTC president, Keozih stated that "this public appeal as stakeholders also carries a political mandatory statement which should not be overlooked and surpassed," and added that a consensus on political approach and a model build upon it should be a base for the different political groups in broad-based consultations with all stakeholders. "And for which the different standards of positive and unbiased opinions, stands, and initiatives of the different groups should not be politically ignored," it added. The YTC pointed out that working in contradiction to the above approach and adopting the policy of exclusiveness amongst the different NPGs may lead to repeating the painful and unpleasant past, and to which the Nagas must not succumb.The YTC maintained that "Devoid of political consensus and broad-based consultations amongst all sections of the Nagas would be self-inflicting and may consequently compel into leaving the socio-political fate and future of the Nagas at the hands of uncertainty of dark clouds hanging over our heads like the Sword of Damocles." The Centre is fundamentally reminded in good faith that the opinions and voices of the common people should be seriously considered in a democratic and republic country like India, the YTC also stated. UNI AS AD RSA BD2303 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0108-657569.Xml
A court here today sentenced two people, including a wholesale grain merchant, from Bhiwandi town of the district to imprisonment for life for murder of his housewife. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on the duo. Prosecutor Sangita Phad told the court that the 30-year-old victim was the wife of a accused, Pravin Bhandari (35), who had a business of wholesale grains in Gokul Nagar locality. The accused was an alcoholic and also had several vices which the victim objected to. The accused used to demand money from his wife frequently which also irked her. In order to have his way, the accused hatched a conspiracy to kill her and make it look like she was murdered during a robbery in their house. Bhandari instructed his friend to execute the plan, which he did, the court was told. Accordingly in the morning of September 15, 2010, he with the help of his friend another accused Rashid Pawle (30) strangled his wife to death and left the house. The prosecution also told the court that the couple had two children -- a boy and girl. The boy had gone to school at the time of incident while the girl is away in Jodhpur for her education. On the fateful day, he lodged a complaint of murder and theft with a police station. The police during investigation found out that it was a case of murder by the arrested duo. After examining total 34 witnesses, Principal District Judge Sunil Kotwal held the duo guilty and sentenced them to life term. Another accused Dharmaraj Nepali (22), who was also arrested with the duo, jumped bail and escaped to Nepal and is still at large. The prosecution told the court that the main accused had employed him in his shop just a few days before the murder. He had also paid him a sum of Rs 25,000 as per the agreement, it was stated. Pawle was arrested before any payment coule be made to him by the main accused in the case, the court was informed. The accused were charged under sections 302, 120B, 450 and 201of the Indian Penal Code.UNI XR SS RSA VN2208 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0171-657454.Xml
A middle-aged lady from Thane district, who was held captive while working as domestic help in Saudi Arabia, has been finally released by her employer and is on her way to India, her family sources said today. Imran Fazal, a local journalist working with an electronic media, took up the issue after coming to know about the plight of the lady and worked for her safe return back home. He told UNI from Mira Road township that the lady, Misba Shaikh (45), had on March nine gone to Abha city in Saudi Arabia, for domestic work. Fazal said the woman, who was doing all sorts of jobs, was subjected to torture. The hapless lady wanted to escape and come home, but had no means of return. Finally, she sought the help of locals with the use of social media, he informed. Her family members also approached External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for help and said that the employer and his agent were demanding 10,000 Saudi Riyals (about Rs 1.80 lakh) for her releaseto India. Her family members could not meet the demand as the banks here were not allowed to transfer money without proper proof, Mr Fazal said. The External Affairs Ministry then took up the matter with the Saudi Government, which rendered all possible help for her release from captivity, he added. Her family members said that her employer was allegedly holding her captive and torturing her, after having taken away her passport and all her belongings. She was confined to a tiny room and was madeto starve. When she was let out, she had to work for three other households in the neighbourhood where she had to slog like a slave, her family members said. The woman's husband, Naseer (48), a driver by profession, approached the Naya Nagar police and a relative of theirs, Imran Memon, appealed for help from the External Affairs Ministry to secure her release. She had got a job of domestic help in Abha city in Saudi Arabia, through a placement agency. The family comes from Mhasla in Raigad, and the couple's two sons, Abdul and Faizan, are also working as drivers in that country. According to Naseer, on reaching Abha on March nine, his wife was subjected to untold torture and treated like a slave by her employer, who would not allow her to talk to anyone. She told about her ordeal to her husband through Whatsapp. She was held captive in a tiny room, and was not allowed to change clothes for days together. Her suitcase was confiscated and she was made to starve for days together. When her son went to enquire about his mother, the employer did not allow him to meet her but beat him up and demanded 10,000 riyal for her release.UNI XR SS RSA VN2342 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0171-657686.Xml
"We are supporting not Assad (himself). Do not forget: he has not been the best friend of ours, but he has been the friend of West," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters.

"We have backed the maintenance of the legitimate government, of power, because we have understood that if the president leaves, the government will follow him, the executive authorities as well as the army will disintegrate," RIA Novosti news agency quoted Zakharova as saying.

She reiterated that Russian air forces were deployed to Syria to prevent collapse of the country and to fight with terrorism in the Middle East, not to support Assad in the civil war.

After conducting anti-terror airstrikes in Syria for over five months, Russian air forces started withdrawal of main forces on March 15 under the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the agreement of Assad.

Russia has been supporting the Assad administration in Syria, which led to disputes with the US and its allies as they insisted Assad to step down.

--Indo-Asian News Service ahm/

( 200 Words)

2016-03-28-04:03:32 (IANS)
Authorities in Mali have arrested two men believed to be linked to an al Qaeda attack on a beach resort town in neighbouring Ivory Coast that killed 19 people earlier this month, military officials said.Gunmen shot swimmers and sunbathers before storming into several hotels in the town of Grand Bassam, 40 km from the commercial capital, Abidjan, on March 13."The information concerning the arrests of two suspects in the north of Mali is true," said Lieutenant-Colonel Modibo Nama Traore, a military intelligence officer who said they had been picked up by gendarmes and the intelligence service.Ivory Coast announced last week it had detained 15 people in connection with the attack, which was claimed by al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the Islamist group's North African branch.Ivorian officials named the suspected ringleader as Kounta Dallah, but said he remained at large.While Traore gave no further details of the arrests in Mali, a second intelligence officer said the two men were arrested separately on Saturday and Sunday in the towns of Goundam and Gossi in the northern Timbuktu region."One is even Kounta's driver," the intelligence officer said, asking not to be identified.In its claim of responsibility for the Grand Bassam shooting rampage, AQIM said the attack was revenge for France's military intervention in Mali.Eleven Ivorians, including three special forces' soldiers, died in the attack. Four French citizens were killed and other foreign victims included citizens of Germany, Lebanon, Macedonia and Nigeria.Paris sent troops to its former colony in 2013 to drive out Islamist fighters who seized its desert north a year earlier. The intervention received support from Mali's regional neighbours, including Ivory Coast, which hosts a French military base.Despite the successful intervention, violence is again rising in Mali, and militants are increasingly striking farther from their traditional desert strongholds.In the months before the attack on Grand Bassam, AQIM struck hotels and restaurants in Mali's capital, Bamako, and neighbouring Burkina Faso's capital, Ouagadougou, killing dozens of civilians.REUTERS PS PR0411 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0137-656239.Xml
Dutch anti-terrorism police arrested a 32-year-old man in Rotterdam on suspicion of preparing an attack on France and also detained three other people, national prosecutors said."French authorities on Friday requested the arrest of the French citizen, who had been identified in a terrorism investigation," prosecutors said in a statement. He was suspected of "involvement in preparing a terrorist attack".The arrests were carried out by a specialized anti-terrorism police squad, and the Dutch intelligence agency AIVD and prosecutors also took part in the operation, prosecutors said.Two of the others detained were described as aged 43 and 47 and "having an Algerian background," while the third had not yet been identified.Police were searching two addresses in western Rotterdam associated with the suspect, and people living in nearby buildings had been evacuated as a precautionary measure, the prosecutors said.The suspect will be extradited to France as quickly as possible, they said.The arrests came with Europe on heightened alert after Tuesday's suicide bomb attacks at Brussels Airport and on a rush-hour metro train that killed 31 people, including three attackers, and injured hundreds more. Islamic State has claimed responsibility.Late yesterday, French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve congratulated intelligence services' work and the cooperation among European countries that he said helped thwart a potential attack in France.Cazeneuve said their work helped result in a first arrest outside of Paris on Thursday, then another in Brussels on Saturday and a third in the Netherlands."Intelligence services work relentlessly to protect our territory in a context of high threat," Cazeneuve said in a statement.REUTERS PS PR0452 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0137-656245.Xml
US Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of US foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliance's overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trump's views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.In another sharp departure from historic US policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.The billionaire businessman, vying to win his party's nomination for the Nov. 8 presidential election, also said he might halt US purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so."NATO is obsolete," Trump said on ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos.The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It was ill-suited to fighting terrorism and cost the United States too much, he added."We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but it's going to be changed," he said.On March 21, Trump said the United States should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but Chinese President Xi Jinping will.Obama said the United States would review international efforts to combat Islamic State in the wake of the Brussels attacks.Trump's chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz, called the real estate mogul's views on NATO "catastrophically foolish." Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump was "out of his depth.""Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all," Cruz said. "It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS," the militant group also known as Islamic State.Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to Islamic State would be to "carpet bomb them into oblivion."In the interview, Trump also said he would be willing to withdraw US troops from Japan and South Korea unless the two countries paid more to house and feed them. Japan hosts about 50,000 US troops, while 28,500 are in South Korea.Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo today that there had been "no change" to Japan's policy of not building, possessing or introducing nuclear weapons, and reiterated that no matter who became US president, the US-Japan alliance would remain the core of Japan's diplomacy and vital for regional and world stability.South Korea said it had continued to play a positive role in the US military's presence in the country and for the allies' ability to defend against the North and there was no change to its commitment to the mutual defense treaty establishing their military partnership.REUTERS SHS GC1148 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0329-656357.Xml
According to an eye-witness based TOLO news report, one of the rockets hit the Parliament building, another fell inside the yard and the third one landed near the building.

The rocket attack took place while senior officials from the country's security agencies were in Parliament answering questions, the report said.

Officials from the Interior and Defense Ministries and the National Directorate of Security (NDS) were present at the time of the attack.

No casualties were reported and the Parliament session continued as usual.UNI SS AE 1406

-- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0089-656600.Xml
Three heavy attack helicopters have left Moscow's Hmeymim airbase in Syria for Russia, Russian state TV channel Rossiya-24 reported today.Two Mi-24 and one Mi-35 helicopters left the base onboard the heavy Antonov-124 transport airplane, along with some engineers and technical staff.This month Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the bulk of the Russian military contingent in Syria to be pulled out after five months of air strikes, saying Moscow had achieved most of its objectives. Yesterday, he congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on regaining the city of Palmyra.Rossiya-24 showed a Russian officer at the Hmeymim base saying that Moscow's forces remaining in Syria were enough "to repel at any moment any attack and accomplish any military tasks". REUTERS SHS VP1332 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0329-656552.Xml
Russian President Vladimir Putin today expressed support for Pakistan's anti-terror efforts, assuring Islamabad of enhancing cooperation in fighting terrorism in the country.''Russia supports the Pakistani authorities' efforts to combat terrorism and seeks greater international cooperation in anti-terrorism work, whether at the regional or the global level,'' Mr Putin said in his message of condolence to Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain and the country's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, following the blast in Lahore's Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park yesterday.Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry today strongly condemned the suicide blast in Lahore, calling it "another barbaric act of terrorists.""We are convinced that the incident will strengthen Islamabad's determination to continue uncompromising struggle against terrorism and religious extremism," the Ministry said in a statement."We expect that organisors of the crime will be swiftly found and face severe punishment," it said, adding that Russia will continue providing support to the counter-terrorism efforts of Pakistan's government.UNI XC RJ AE 1637 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0098-656911.Xml
Japan has conveyed its concern to Moscow over possible Russian plans to build a naval base on a western Pacific island chain, part of which are claimed by Tokyo, a top Japanese government spokesman said on Monday, the latest in a long-running territorial spat.Tokyo's action follows Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's comment last week that Russia would study the possibility of building a naval base on what it calls the Kurile islands.Japan claims a southern segment of the island chain, which was seized by Soviet troops at the end of World War Two. The territorial row has kept the two countries from signing a formal peace treaty since.The disputed islands are called the Northern Territories in Japan and Southern Kuriles in Russia."We've informed the Russian side through a diplomatic channel that we are concerned about the comment by Defence Minister Shoigu," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular news conference."We've also told them that if this led to the reinforcement of Russian military infrastructure on the Northern Territories, that would be incompatible with Japan's stance and regrettable."Besides the potential construction of a naval base, Shoigu also said last week that Russia would this year deploy some of its newest missile defence systems and drones on the Kurile islands.The military buildup in Russia's Far East comes when Japan is shifting its defence focus to the south to better cope with China's maritime expansion.Japan on Monday switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to a group of islands disputed by Japan and China, drawing an angry response from Beijing.REUTERS CJ VN1954 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657441.Xml
Ten Indonesian crew members on board a tugboat were kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf militants in the Philippines at the weekend, officials in Manila said late todayTwo Philippine military officials said the militant group had demanded an undisclosed ransom amount from the boat's owners. The officials declined to be identified because they are not authorised to speak to media.The crew were operating a privately owned Taiwanese tugboat on its way from Jakarta to Manila when it was hijacked near the Malaysian border.The crew managed to call their employer to inform them of the hijacking, but the exact location of the incident remains unknown, officials said.Indonesian officials said they were investigating the incident, without elaborating.Abu Sayyaf, known for kidnappings, beheadings, bombings and extortion, is one of the most hardline Islamist militant groups in the Muslim south of the largely Christian PhilippinesREUTERS CJ VN2242 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657668.Xml
Gunmen from Afghanistan have released two Tajik road workers kidnapped in a cross-border raid last week, Tajikistan's border guard service said todayTheir release was negotiated, a spokesman for the service said by telephone.The attack, blamed by the regional government on drug smugglers, took place last Friday near the town of Shuro-obod in southeastern Tajikistan and prompted a temporary closure of the main road connecting Tajikistan and China.The impoverished former Soviet republic routinely reports incidents related to drug smugglers crossing its border with Afghanistan.One border guard died in a firefight with a small group of militants this month.REUTERS CJ VN2243 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657671.Xml
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has cancelled his visit to the US to take part in the Nuclear Security Summit in the wake of the Lahore attack. Pakistan delegation will now be led by Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Syed Tariq Fatemi, Radio Pakistan reported. Earlier, there were high expectation of a meeting between Mr Sharif and Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is also participating in the Nuclear Summit in Washington, though there had been no official announcement in this regard. Mr Sharif has also cancelled his UK trip and was concentrating on the hunt launched by authorities to trace down the culprits, and on ensuring relief for the victims of the blast which took place in the famous Gulshe-e-Iqbal park of Lahore, killing around 70 people and leaving around 250 injured. UNI XC NAZ RSA 2323 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0091-657708.Xml
The Taliban faction that killed at least 70 people, many of them children, in a park in Lahore on Easter Sunday has been quickly gaining attention in militant circles.Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's recent rise to prominence - Sunday's attack was the fifth it has claimed since December - plus its onetime pledge of allegiance to Islamic State show the fractured and sometimes competitive nature of Pakistan's myriad militants."They are nowadays the main group claiming attacks in the past few months," said Mansour Khan Mehsud, lead researcher of the FATA Research Group, said of Jamaat-ur-Ahrar.In Sunday's attack, 29 of the 70 killed were children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. Pakistan is a majority Muslim state but has some two million Christians, and Easter is a public holiday.It was the most deadly attack in Pakistan since the December 2014 massacre by the Taliban of 134 school children at a military run academy in the northwestern city of Peshawar.A spokesman for Jamaat-ur-Ahrar (JA) on Monday threatened other attacks, including more against religious minorities."We don't target women and children, but Islam allows us to kill men of the Christian community who are against our religion," spokesman Ehansullah Ehsan said.The group's leader, Omar Khalid Khorasani, has a background that reads like a history of Pakistani militancy.Born Abdul Wali in a small village called Lakaro in the northwestern Mohmand tribal region, Khorasani started out as an anti-India jihadist fighting in Kashmir, according to a long-time friend and militant colleague who spoke on condition of anonymity.He later joined the Pakistani Taliban in 2007 to fight the government to establish strict sharia Islamic law.In 2013, Khorasani was one of the candidates to lead the Pakistani Taliban - who are separate from but loosely allied with the Afghan Taliban - after its chief Hakimullah Mehsud was killed in a U.S. drone strike.After losing out to Maulana Fazlullah, Khorasani left the next year to form his own group.Jamaat-ur-Ahrar in September 2014 swore allegiance to Islamic State, also known as Daesh."We respect them. If they ask us for help, we will look into it and decide," spokesman Ehsan told Reuters of Islamic State, while rejecting the main Pakistani Taliban leadership.By March 2015, however, the group was again swearing loyalty to the main Pakistani Taliban umbrella leadership. The reason for its return to the fold remains murky, but JA never specifically disavowed Islamic State either.Khorasani was seriously wounded in a NATO air strike in eastern Afghanistan last year, Ehsan confirmed, but said he has fully recovered and is in hiding. Like many Pakistani militants, Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's fighters sometimes flee into Afghanistan to escape a Pakistani army crackdown along the border that began in 2014.Pakistani authorities have expressed fears that the ideology of the Middle East-based Islamic State - which places greater emphasis on killing Christians and minority Shia Muslims - could intensify sectarian violence in Pakistan.Targeting minorities is not-uncommon among Pakistan's predominantly Sunni Muslim militants, but it is a far more pronounced trait of Islamic State.Jamaat-ur-Ahrar had previously targeted Christians - in March 2015, it claimed two church bombings in Lahore that killed 14 people - but researcher Mehsud said he doubted JA's loose affiliation to Islamic State was the cause.Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a U.S.-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also been attacked by various factions.Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.JA is vying for attention in the militant-saturated northwest that has some 60-70 armed Islamist groups, researcher Mehsud said."They target Christians and other minorities because it will get media attention ... this is not something new," he said. "They want to strike fear and show that they are still here and the military has not defeated the TalibanREUTERS CJ VN2324 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0400-657710.Xml
Ouagadougou (AFP) - A thousand people have fled Ivory Coast to seek refuge in neighbouring Burkina Faso after clashes between farmers and herdsmen that left at least 17 people dead, officials said Monday.

A senior official in the Burkinabe province of Noumbiel, on the border with Ivory Coast, said that as of Sunday 1,316 people had sought refuge in the region following the deadly clashes in Bouna, the main town in northeast Ivory Coast.

"Most of them are women and children," added the official, who was reached by telephone.

"We have put in place a crisis cell formed of local authorities and emergency services. We have received emergency goods from Ouagadougou -- bedding and food -- but it will not be enough to support these people, who continue to arrive."

The clashes broke out in Bouna on Wednesday night. Violent disputes between nomadic herders and farmers, often over grazing and watering rights, are not uncommon, but such a high death toll is rare.

The farmers complain that their fields are ruined by the passage of herds of cattle.
"All men must die," according to an old High Valyrian proverb, but do they all deserve to die?

That's the theory posited in the latest trailer for Game of Thrones season six, which aired on HBO over the weekend. In one scene, the two most powerful men in King's Landing  the High Sparrow (Jonathan Pryce) and King Tommen (Dean-Charles Chapman)  speak with one another, with the Faith Militant's pious mastermind making his beliefs on mortality quite clear: "We are sinful creatures. We deserve death. We all do."

Tell that to the butcher's boy, cut down by Sandor "The Hound" Clegane (Rory McCann) in the second episode of the HBO fantasy show's first season. Tell that to Shireen Baratheon (Kerry Ingram), burned alive as a blood sacrifice that amounted to precisely nothing. Tell that to Lommy Greenhands (Eros Vlahos), or Craster's infant sons, or the thousands of bastard-born children in King's Landing slaughtered in order to cover up a top-level royal conspiracy. These people, and many more, did not deserve death  at least not such a brutal manner of death, at such a brutal time.

Of course, that's not to say there aren't wicked men and women in Westeros and the surrounding lands more than worthy of the High Sparrow's philosophy. Here are some of the monsters on Thrones that deserve death, and will receive it by the end of the show, if there's any justice at all.

See More: 'Game of Thrones'' Gruesome Deaths: From Robert Baratheon to Jon Snow

1. High Sparrow (Jonathan Pryce)

Let's begin with the owner of the quote. Ever since arriving in King's Landing, Pryce's holy man has claimed to represent the impoverished and disenfranchised, but he has little love for the people who live outside of his worldview  like Loras Tyrell (Finn Jones), who he targeted purely for his sexuality. The longer the High Sparrow remains in power, the more dangerous he gets  and the more he must be stopped.

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2. Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon)

The man who butchered Theon Greyjoy (Alfie Allen), raped Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner), and tortured countless others through psychological warfare and old fashioned skin-flaying  and enjoyed it all  cannot survive Thrones, not while so many pure-hearted souls are left to suffer and die.

3. Roose Bolton (Michael McElhatton)

"Jaime Lannister sends his regards." The elder Bolton became public enemy number two after shoving his sword through Robb Stark (Richard Madden) during season three's Red Wedding, effectively killing the entire Northern army with a single strike. Whether it's this season or next, Roose will collect on that karmic debt.

4. Walder Frey (David Bradley)

If Roose is public enemy number two, then the sniveling old man at the heart of the Twins sits at the top of the list. Bradley is currently knee-deep in Strigoi blood on The Strain, but he's virtually guaranteed to return to Thrones at some point, if only to receive just punishment for his role in the Red Wedding.

5. Melisandre (Carice van Houten)

Outside of Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham), the Red Priestess of Asshai is the last remaining bastion of the Stannis Baratheon era  and the one who lit the torch that consumed Shireen in flames. She needs to atone for that crime, and one way to do it is to sacrifice her own life perhaps in service of bringing Jon Snow (Kit Harington) back from the dead.

Read More: 'Game of Thrones': The 10 Greatest Warriors in Westeros

6. Petyr Baelish (Aidan Gillen)

The Seven Kingdoms are in disarray for a laundry list of reasons, but the main man pushing the "wash" button is Littlefinger, who plunged numerous noble houses into chaos in an attempt to secure power for himself. While it would be satisfying to see his painstaking machinations succeed on some level, it would be so much more satisfying for someone  say, Sansa  to push him out the proverbial moon door, if not the literal one.

7. Gregor "The Mountain" Clegane (Hafthor Julius Bjornsson)

The murder monster currently known as Robert Strong makes his brother Sandor look like a saint. He's ripped people in half for no real reason, exploded heads with his bare hands, and beheaded horses for not riding well enough. Of course, the Mountain's died before but he must die again, and must die for good.

8. The Sons of the Harpy

The insurgency in Meereen working against Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) must be crushed for a number of reasons, not the least of which is their pro-slavery stance  but an equally big crime is their alleyway ambush against Barristan the Bold (Ian McElhinney), killed well before his time.

9. The Night's King (Richard Brake)

The White Walkers are coming, and the horn-headed Night's King is at the front of the pack. There's no love lost between the ice monsters beyond the Wall and the humans beneath it, and there's equally little doubt that the Walkers will decimate at least a few of our beloved characters. With any luck, the Night's King and his army will be annihilated before they can cause too much damage.

10. The Night's Watch Mutineers

Everyone who riddled Jon Snow with daggers deserves a visit from the Faceless Men  and yes, this includes Olly (Brenock O'Connor), currently the most hated young man in Westeros.

Keep up with all the Game of Thrones coverage at THR.com/GameOfThrones.
Spring is the time to purge your closets, dust the window shades and power-wash the deck. But dont neglect your personal finances as you clean the house. A careful review of your spending can result in some serious savings.

Imagine what you can do with your found money.

You can accelerate debt payments, increase retirement savings to your 401(k), invest in a Roth IRA or 529 (college savings plan), says Marguerita Cheng, CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth in Potomac, Maryland. Additional monthly savings and investments of $50 [to] $300 can make a huge difference over 20, 30 or even 40 years. It's important to be mindful with your money.

Here are seven places to look as you spruce up your finances this spring.

1. Reduce recurring bills.

Look over your cellphone, cable, satellite and Internet bills and see if youre paying more than you need to. Ask for promo rates or cut back on your plan if you dont need all the bells and whistles. Cheng had one client who reduced his cell phone bill by $25 a month  thats $300 a year.

Related: How to Become an Everyday Millionaire  From Those Whove Done It

2. Eliminate unused services.

Get rid of services that you dont use. Chengs client cut out his XM Satellite radio service, saving $30 a month (or $360 for the year). Reconsider Netflix or Hulu if you have overlapping services like premium cable or Amazon prime (or vice versa), saving anywhere from $8 to $12 a month. Last, cut out your gym membership if you rarely use it, says Ryan Fuchs, a financial planner at Ifrah Financial Services in Frisco, Texas.

3. Find car insurance savings.

Shop around for the lowest car insurer and, when you find it, pay for your policy on a semi-annual or annual basis instead of monthly. Most insurers will offer discounts on the bulk payments, which adds up to between $10 and $20 a month. (Fewer payments lower the companys administrative costs.) While comparing insurance policies, dont forget to check with your homeowners insurance to see if theres a multi-line policy, which can knock off around 15 percent off the total costs.

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4. Wipe out bank fees.

If youre paying for a checking account, stop. Ask your bank if there is a way to avoid the fee, such as keeping a minimum in the account. Chengs client was able to get free checking with direct deposit, saving him $12 a month. To avoid overdraft fees, link your checking account to your savings account or a line of credit.

Related: 9 Savvy Ways to Build Wealth

5. Cash in your credit card points.

Check your points or miles balance on your credit card and cash them in. Make sure to get the most bang for your buck, though. For example, some rewards are worth more when used toward travel reservations through the credit card than a statement credit. Other cards may offer gift cards at a higher value. Check your credit cards rewards website for the details.

6. Go green.

Switch out your incandescent lights for CFL or LED ones, says Fuchs. They may cost more upfront but the savings will add up. A $6, energy-efficient 60-watt bulb will pay for itself in a year, according to Energy Star. Each bulb can save between $30 and $80 in electricity costs over the bulbs lifetime. For the average house with 50 light bulbs, thats $1,500 to $2,400.

7. Maximize your paystub.

Are you getting the full 401(k) match from your employer? If not, increase your contributions and boost your retirement savings. Otherwise, youre not taking free money. Take advantage of any parking and transit benefits your employer offers by dumping pretax dollars into those accounts, instead of paying those expenses out-of-pocket. And if you had a large tax refund this year, adjust your W-4 to reduce the taxes withheld from each paycheck, says Theresa Rosen, a wealth manager at Prudence Financial in Sudbury, Massachusetts. It gives extra money each pay check, ideally for saving or debt pay-down, she says.

Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
Hypersonic aircraft and weapons that can fly more than five times the speed of sound may seem like a futuristic fantasy, but defense giant Lockheed Martin says it is committed to making these ultrafast innovations a reality.

In fact, Lockheed Martin is doubling down on hypersonic aerospace technologies, Lockheed officials said recently at the company's Media Day.

"Lockheed Martin continues to invest in propulsion technologies and advanced materials needed for hypersonic speeds," Marillyn A. Hewson, Lockheed Martin president and CEO, said in a statement on March 15. "We're now producing a controllable, low-drag, aerodynamic configuration capable of stable operation from takeoff, to subsonic, transonic, supersonic and hypersonic to Mach 6." [Supersonic! The 11 Fastest Military Airplanes]

Hypersonic speed is defined as speed above Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound  about 3,800 mph, or 6,100 km/h). For comparison, a 747 airliner travels at about 550 mph (885 km/h). In 2015, Lockheed Martin said its engineers were designing hypersonic vehicles that could move at 4 miles per second, or 14,400 mph. At such hypersonic speeds, an aircraft could fly across the Pacific Ocean in 1 to 2 hours.

Although they're not yet in use beyond testing, hypersonic aerospace technologies are not new. "There was a large push toward it in the 1950s, all the way up to the manned moon missions," said Thomas Corke, the Clark Chair Professor in Engineering at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.

Many vehicles, particularly objects falling back to Earth after launching into space, have reached hypersonic speeds. The first human-made object to exceed Mach 5 was a V-2 rocket launched by the U.S. Army on Feb. 24, 1949.

Though hypersonic jets have been built, they are expensive, and over the years, interest (and funds) for the technology has waxed and waned. Now, Lockheed suggests they are closer to building a hypersonic craft at an affordable price.

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Hypersonic history

The first hypersonic aircraft was developed in the late 1950s as part of the X-15 hypersonic research program, a project jointly conducted by NASA, the U.S. Air Force and Navy, and North American Aviation Inc. The 50-foot-long (15 meters), rocket-powered, piloted aircraft was launched from a B-52 plane at 45,000 feet (almost 14,000 m), and reached speeds exceeding 500 mph (805 km/h). Over the span of nearly a decade and 199 flights, the X-15 set unofficial world speed and altitude records, traveling 4,520 mph (Mach 6.7 or 7,274 km/h) at 354,200 feet (107,960 m). But progress on hypersonics slowed once ballistic re-entry (re-entry slowed by atmospheric drag) was chosen over an aerodynamic re-entry for early spaceflights, Corke told Live Science. [Image Gallery: Breaking the Sound Barrier]

Now, with rising concerns about national defense, interest in hypersonics has been renewed in recent years. "The [saying] that is used quite a bit is: Hypersonics is the new stealth," Corke said. Newer hypersonic aircraft include the U.S. military's experimental Falcon Hypersonic Technology Vehicle 2 (HTV-2) and Lockheed Martin's proposed SR-72 hypersonic spy plane.

The unmanned Falcon HTV-2 reached a remarkable Mach 20 (about 13,000 mph, or 20,921km/h) in its second test flight in 2011. But, both tests of this rocket-launched, arrow-shaped glider terminated prematurely.

The SR-72 has been billed as the successor to the SR-71 Blackbird, which flew from New York to London in less than 2 hours in 1974. The reconnaissance aircraft reached speeds in excess of Mach 3 and set speed records that still stand today, according to Lockheed Martin. Skunk Works, the same division of Lockheed Martin that created the SR-71, has said the SR-72 would fly at twice the speed of its predecessor.

By modifying an off-the-shelf turbine and combining it with a ramjet (a type of jet engine with no moving parts that sucks in air for combustion), the SR-72 could be a fairly inexpensive reality by 2030, Skunk Works engineers said in an explanation of the aircraft from 2013.

Corke added that this type of combined cycle propulsion is one possibility for hypersonics, which use ramjet engines to fly at hypersonic speeds but require a different kind of propulsion to get them to Mach 5. (Hence, other hypersonic aircraft are using rockets.) In her remarks at Lockheed Martin's Media Day, Hewson estimated that a demonstration hypersonic aircraft the size of an F-22 could be developed, built and flown for less than $1 billion.

Speedy weapons

In addition to hypersonic aircraft, Lockheed Martin is developing hypersonic weapons, including what they are calling the "Hypersonic Air-Breathing Weapon Concept." Technically, hypersonic weaponry already exists: The Navy's electromagnetic railgun shoots a projectile at Mach 5. A maneuverable hypersonic weapon has yet to be created, though back in 2013, Lockheed Martin predicted it might be able to demonstrate such missile technology by 2018.

"I would say that there are drawings on the books to develop hypersonic weapons that could be available by 2018, although I don't think [that's likely]," Corke said. "I think that timeline is out there a few more years." [Photos: Hypersonic Jet Could Fly 10 Times the Speed of Sound]

Defense was a central theme of Hewson's remarks at Media Day, particularly regarding the rise of violent extremists and militant groups, such as the Islamic State group (ISIS) and Boko Haram. High-speed weapons are promising developments in national security because they have the potential to strike quickly and stealthily, escaping harm by flying at high altitudes.

Hypersonic challenges

Altitude is among the chief technical challenges Lockheed Martin cites in the creation of hypersonic vehicles. Flying high can provide cover; it's also a way for the vehicle to avoid the higher pressures present at lower altitudes, which could cause it to burn up. The trade-off is that the thin air makes steering difficult, according to Lockheed Martin.

Some hypersonic aircraft are manned vehicles, but the thin air at high altitudes combined with the immense speed means a pilot cannot react fast enough to potential issues. This means manned hypersonic vehicles have to be controlled by a computerized system that balances the craft while the pilot directs the larger maneuvers.

Extreme temperatures are another crucial consideration for travel at hypersonic speeds. The Falcon HTV-2, for example, recorded surface temperatures of 3,500 degrees Fahrenheit (1,927degrees Celsius) during its fateful test flight. Friction at these speeds can melt steel  the more turbulent the air is, the higher the surface temperatures.

"Right now, we have no confidence in being able to predict where and if the airflow over a hypersonic vehicle is turbulent," Corke said.

To study and address these problems associated with hypersonics, researchers need to use computational simulations and ground experiments. The University of Notre Dame is building the largest quiet hypersonic research wind tunnels, a Mach 6 tunnel and a Mach 10 tunnel. Engineers working on hypersonics are making use of newly developed heat-resistant materials, while giving also close consideration to the vehicles' overall form.

Lockheed Martin has said that hypersonic aircraft won't be part of consumer air travel any time soon, since the focus is more related to current defense needs.

Hewson did, however, reiterate a more fantastic potential future for hypersonic crafts that aerospace companies have dangled in front of us for years  that hypersonic developments could be an eventual path to quick, affordable passenger flights to space.

"It's a fascinating field," Corke said. "It's in this area that's in between aircraft and spacecraft.  There's tremendous complexities to it that make it a good topic to study for 50 years."

Follow us @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 Dan Whitcomb (Reuters) - A volcano on the Alaska Peninsula erupted with little advanced warning over the weekend, spewing an ash cloud up to 20,000 feet (6,096 meters) high that prompted aviation warnings across the region, scientists said on Monday. Mount Pavlof, one of the most active volcanoes on the peninsula, began erupting shortly after 4:00 p.m. Alaska Daylight Time on Sunday, said Jessica Larsen, coordinating scientist with the University of Alaska Geophysical Institute. "Pavlof is known to us for having a pretty quick onset to eruptions, it doesn't always give us long precursory signals," Larsen said. "If you look at some of the seismic data that we have, the intensity really ramped up pretty fast. It was quite abrupt," she said. Photos on the Alaska Volcano Observatory website showed the plume towering over the icy slopes of Mount Pavlof and drifting to the northwest. The Federal Aviation Administration issued a "red" aviation alert in response to the 20,000-foot-high ash cloud, which required that flights to be re-routed. The alert could affect local and regional air traffic, as well polar routes and cargo flights from Anchorage. Larsen said the eruption did not pose any immediate danger to nearby communities on the peninsula, which were monitoring the ash fall. The closest residential area is Cold Bay, located 37 miles (60 km) southwest of Pavlof. There have been more than 40 eruptions from Pavlof, including between May and November of 2014, when ash plumes also triggered aviation warnings. Such events can last weeks or months. "This 20,000-foot ash cloud is not unusual for Pavlof at all," Larsen said, adding that the highest recorded plume from the volcano was 49,000 feet. (Editing by Bernadette Baum)
The Hague (AFP) - Dutch police found ammunition in the house of a French national arrested in Rotterdam on suspicion of plotting an attack in France, prosecutors said Monday.

The man, 32, thought to be called Anis B., was detained on Sunday suspected of receiving orders from the Islamic State group to attack targets in France along with Reda Kriket, who was detained near Paris last week.

"During the search, phones, SIM cards, hard drives, cash, ammunition and drugs were seized," a spokesman for the Dutch prosecutor, Wim de Bruin, told AFP.

No explosives were found during the raid in which a total of four men, including two suspects of Algerian background, were arrested, he added.

Anis. B is expected to be handed over to France after an extradition hearing at an Amsterdam court, de Bruin said, although no date has yet been set.

The Netherlands was already on heightened alert after the airport and metro attacks in Brussels last Tuesday, with security stepped up at airports and train stations and border controls tightened.

French police said they had thwarted an attack by 34-year-old Kriket after arresting him on Thursday and discovering several assault rifles and explosives in an apartment in a Paris suburb.

French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said that a planned attack at "an advanced stage" had been foiled, without giving further details.

Belgian police at the weekend charged two men with involvement in a terrorist group over the foiled French plot linked to Kriket.

Kriket was convicted in absentia last year in Belgium in the trial of a jihadist network linked to Syria in which one of the defendants was Belgian Abdelhamid Abaaoud, thought to be the ringleader of the November attacks in Paris.
By Steve Barnes LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Reuters) - An Arkansas sheriff with a similar name to a Wild West legend has spent about half of his office's clothing budget to supply deputies in his mostly urban county with fashionable cowboy hats to top off their uniforms. Sheriff Doc Holladay of Pulaski County, which contains the capital, Little Rock, said he had the money left in the budget for black felt cowboy hats at $155 each for cooler days and white straw versions at $42 each for warmer temperatures. Some local media had raised eyebrows about the significant expenditure for the hats. They give the deputies a bit of dash, said Holladay, who used $26,000 from his departments appropriated clothing budget to purchase two hats for each of his deputies, who have the option of wearing them on patrol. Holladay said he favored the cowboy hat since it had long been traditional in sheriffs departments across the United States. "Weve had no standard for headgear in our department and I dont think ball caps are necessarily the thing to do, Holladay said, adding the new headgear "looks sharp. John "Doc" Holliday was a dentist turned gambler and gunman who joined forces with lawman Wyatt Earp in the famed Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona, in 1881. (Reporting by Steve Barnes; Writing by Jon Herskovitz; Editing by Peter Cooney)
BAKU (Reuters) - Azeri human rights activist and lawyer Intigam Aliyev was freed from jail on Monday, his lawyer said. Azerbaijan pardoned 148 prisoners including journalists, rights activists and political opponents this month in an apparent move to deflect Western criticism of the ex-Soviet republic's human rights record. Analysts say President Ilham Aliyev has included some political prisoners in amnesties in recent years to avoid complaints over crackdowns on free speech in Azerbaijan, a major oil and natural gas exporter. The Baku supreme court on Monday reduced lawyer Aliyev's seven-and-a-half-year prison term to a five-year probation period. Aliyev was detained in the Azeri capital Baku in August 2014 and charged with tax evasion, abuse of office and illegal entrepreneurship. London-based Amnesty International said Aliyev's release was "an overdue step toward righting the injustice against him". "Prisoner of conscience Intigam Aliyev has paid dearly for his frontline human rights work  the only 'crime' he committed was to defend his fellow citizens' freedoms," said Denis Krivosheev, Deputy Director for Europe and Central Asia at Amnesty International. Amnesty International said seven prisoners of conscience were still jailed in Azerbaijan. The government says Azerbaijan, a Caspian Sea republic of about 9 million people bordering Russia, Iran and Turkey, enjoys full freedom of speech and a free press. (Reporting by Nailia Bagirova and Margarita Antidze; Writing by Margarita Antidze; Editing by Dmitry Solovyov/Ruth Pitchford)
BAKU/YEREVAN (Reuters) - Two Azeri servicemen have been killed in border clashes with the Armenian army, Azerbaijan's defense ministry said on Monday. The Armenian defense ministry accused the Azeri side of triggering fresh confrontation along the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan and around Nagorno-Karabakh, which lies inside Azerbaijan but is controlled by majority ethnic Armenians. Clashes between the two ex-Soviet nations and around separatist Nagorno-Karabakh have stoked fears of a wider conflict breaking out in the South Caucasus, which is crossed by oil and gas pipelines. In an account that was disputed, Azerbaijan said an officer and a soldier were killed on Sunday when Armenian forces tried to cross the state border. Armenia accused Azeri forces of attacking several villages near the border between the two countries, wounding one civilian at the weekend. Sporadic clashes between the two have thwarted international efforts, led by France, Russia and the United States, to end the dispute, which broke out in the dying years of the Soviet Union and killed about 30,000 people. (Reporting by Nailia Bagirova and Hasmik Mkrtchyan; Writing by Margarita Antidze; Editing by Dmitry Solovyov/Ruth Pitchford)
Belgrade (AFP) - A hundred Balkan rights groups, journalists and activists declared their support Monday for a former prosecutorial spokeswoman at the Yugoslav war crimes court after she was detained by the tribunal.

French national Florence Hartmann was sentenced on appeal to seven days in prison in 2009 after writing a book containing confidential court details, and on Thursday she was dramatically grabbed at the court entrance in The Hague.

Since her detention, which came as she was trying to attend the landmark verdict for wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic, Hartmann has been held under "suicide watch conditions", her lawyer said at the weekend.

"Civil society representatives from the region of the former Yugoslavia hereby voice their support for Florence Hartmann and her uncompromising struggle for truth," said Monday's letter with 100 signatories.

It said Hartmann was sentenced "because of exposing and countering the practice of concealing documents in order to protect the interests of some states".

Hartmann, a former Balkans correspondent for French daily Le Monde, was detained by UN guards in front of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia's (ICTY), where she once worked as the prosecutor's spokeswoman between 2000-2006.

She was prosecuted in 2007 for revealing details of two confidential appeals chamber decisions in a book published that year.

The data, which emerged during the trial of late Serbian strongman Slobodan Milosevic, allegedly implicated the Serbian state in the 1995 Srebrenica massacre of almost 8,000 Muslim men and boys in Bosnia.

Hartmann was initially fined 7,000 euros ($7,800) for contempt and in 2011, after she had not paid the fine, ICTY judges sentenced her to seven days in jail.

The court asked French authorities to arrest her, but they refused.

"We are profoundly convinced that what Florence Hartmann did may be contrary to the ICTY Statute but is certainly not contrary to justice. Quite the opposite," Monday's letter said.

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It said the tribunal had shown "weakness" over Vojislav Seselj, a Serbian war crimes suspect who will not be present at the court this week to hear his verdict owing to alleged medical reasons.

He is however standing in parliamentary elections in April and has led anti-government protests in Belgrade.

The letter referred to Serbia's refusal to hand over Seselj and three other members of his Serbian Radical party who are accused of contempt of court.

"The Hague Tribunal used to apply the same standards to all accused persons in the past, so it should do so in this case too."
Dhaka (AFP) - Bangladesh's high court on Monday rejected a petition by secular activists to scrap Islam as the state religion in the wake of nationwide protests by hardline Islamist groups.

A special bench of three judges threw out the petition within moments of opening the case and without allowing any testimony, an AFP correspondent at the court said.

The petition, which was first launched 28 years ago, has triggered countrywide protests by Islamist groups in the impoverished nation.

"We are saddened (at the ruling). It's a sad day for the minorities of Bangladesh," said Subrata Chowdhury, who represented the secular activists in the case.

The court did not allow the petitioners to state their case or present any arguments, he said. "The judges simply said the rule is discharged."

Bangladesh was declared officially secular after the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan which created the nation from what was previously East Pakistan.

In 1988 the then-military ruler, General Hussain Muhammad Ershad, elevated Islam to the state religion in an attempt to consolidate power.

Secularists have argued for decades that having Islam as the state religion conflicts with Bangladesh's secular charter and discriminates against non-Muslims.

More than 90 percent of Bangladesh's population is Muslim, with Hindus and Buddhists the main minorities.

- 'Victory' -

The country's largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, responded to the court's decision by withdrawing a call for a nationwide strike. It described the outcome as a "victory of 160 million people".

Hefazat-e-Islam, a hardline Islamist group that has staged violent demonstrations in recent years, also welcomed the court's move.

"We thank the high court for rescuing the country from a massive disaster," Hefazat's organising secretary Azizul Hoque Islamabadi told AFP.

The court's decision to throw out the case threatens to heighten tensions between secularists and hardliners in the conservative nation, which has recently seen a spate of killings of atheist bloggers, religious minorities and foreigners.

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The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for many of these incidents, but the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina blames the banned domestic group Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh for the upsurge in deadly violence.

Some 7,000 activists had taken to the streets of the capital Dhaka after prayers last Friday, chanting anti-government slogans and holding banners to protest against the high court's move to hear the plea.

Bangladesh has been plagued by unrest in the last three years and experts say a long-running political crisis has radicalised opponents of the government.

The secular government launched a nationwide crackdown on Jamaat in 2013, detaining or prosecuting tens of thousands of activists.

A controversial war crimes tribunal has ordered the execution of several top Jamaat leaders, dividing the country and sparking deadly protests.

Constitutional changes dating back over three decades have put Bangladesh in the unusual position of being officially secular while still having Islam as a state religion.

Hasina's government has brought back secularism as a pillar of the constitution, but promised it would not ratify any laws that go against the central tenets of Islam.
DHAKA (Reuters) - Bangladesh's High Court on Monday dismissed a case filed by a citizen's group to drop Islam as the state religion, a lawyer said. Bangladesh's 1971 constitution declared all religions were equal in the eyes of the state. But military ruler Hussain Mohammad Ershad amended it in 1988 to make Islam the state religion. Ershad's action led a group of 12 citizens to file a writ with the High Court to overturn the amendment. But Shahriar Kabir, who convened the group, said the members decided not to go ahead with the case. Twenty-eight years later, the same group filed a new writ which the court dismissed. Subrata Chowdhury, the lawyer for the group, said the court did not even allow them a hearing. It did not give a reason for dismissing the case. The government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has amended the constitution to reinstate the principle of secularism but also reaffirmed Islam as the state religion. (Reporting by Serajul Quadir; Editing by Nick Macfie)
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The Association of Professional Cyclists (CPA) wants an urgent investigation into the death of Belgian Antoine Demoitie at the Gent-Wevelgem classic race over the weekend. Demoitie's Wanty-Gobert team said the rider was hit by a motorbike following a fall during a section of the race in northern France on Sunday and the 25-year-old died in hospital. "The CPA and all the riders demand that light is shed on the accident immediately and the circumstances that caused it," the association said in a statement on Monday. CPA president Gianni Bugno, who won the world road race title in 1991 and 1992, said it was a time of "sadness and sorrow". "We do not want to make controversy but we have so much frustration inside," added the Italian. "We have always stated that the safety of the riders must come first. "I do not want to accuse anyone but make everyone reflect on the responsibility we have to ensure that a very high level of attention and awareness is maintained plus control over safety standards during each race," Bugno said. Demoitie was appearing in his second world tour race, having made his first appearance in the E3 Harelbeke event in Belgium earlier in the week. The sport's governing body, the UCI, said it would work with the relevant authorities looking into his death. "The UCI is extremely saddened to learn about the passing of Belgian rider Antoine Demoitie," it said. "Antoine will be truly missed," added UCI president Brian Cookson. "Our thoughts are with his family, friends and team." The 243km (151-mile) Gent-Wevelgem, which starts and ends in Belgium, was won by world road race champion Peter Sagan of Slovakia. (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop and Tony Jimenez; Editing by Louise Heavens and Ken Ferris)
Jerusalem (AFP) - A controversial bill to suspend Israeli lawmakers who support "terrorism" and seen to target Arab parliamentarians on Monday passed a first reading in the Jewish state's parliament.

Fifty-nine lawmakers voted for the bill, while 53 were against it.

The draft law is widely seen as targeting the Arab-led bloc after three of its members met the families of Palestinian attackers.

The bloc counts 13 of parliament's 120 members, making it the Knesset's third-largest grouping.

The bill would give parliament the power to strip any lawmaker of the right to vote on draft legislation by a three-quarters majority.

It still needs to pass a second and third reading in the Knesset before becoming a law.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the bill will enable action against lawmakers "siding with terrorism".

But opposition lawmakers, rights groups and President Reuven Rivlin have warned of the potential for abuse.

In early February, three Arab Israeli lawmakers visited relatives of killed Palestinian assailants who were seeking to retrieve their bodies.

Violence since October has left 200 Palestinians and 28 Israelis dead, according to an AFP tally.

Most of the Palestinians killed were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to the Israeli authorities.

Arab Israelis -- who represent about 18 percent of Israel's population -- are the descendants of Palestinians who remained on their land after the creation of Israel in 1948.
Ice Age series and The Peanuts Movie studio Blue Sky is shining in Paris, with a new exhibit dedicated to the animation house's original works at the city's Musee Art Ludique.

The expansive exhibit opened Saturday with over 800 sketches, paintings, models and other original works from over the past 20 years as the studio behind Rio and Robots has become an animation powerhouse.

The exhibit was developed over two years of talks between Blue Sky, Musee Art Ludique founder and curator Jean-Jacques Launier and Ice Age: The Meltdown and Rio director Carlos Saldanha and took months of digging through the archives stored at Fox Studios in Los Angeles.

"When we did Ice Age, we didn't even know what archives were. I think stuff probably got lost along the way before Fox organized it," said Saldanha. "This is just a fraction of what we have, but all of our favorites are pretty much here."

The show also chronicles the technological changes over the years, from the first Ice Age sketches of characters Scrat and Sid through the more recent digital paintings that are now industry standard.

Those sketches from the first Ice Age - before digital conquered all in the animation world - were particularly poignant.

"Drawing gives you a little bit more room for imagination and room for exploration beyond what you see ... you get the vibe and go from there," said Saldanha. "It's beautiful to see the drawing and the texture."

Ice Age: Continental Drift and The Peanuts Movie director Steve Martino agreed: "There is something beautiful about the drawings, because in the sketches you can see the raw inspirations for the characters."

Martino said that as animation moves into a completely computerized production world - even initial sketches are now done digitally - the challenge is to keep audiences from becoming saturated with a certain style. "If we keep delivering movies that look the same, [the audience] will get bored," he said, adding that there are an increasing number of studios and animated films released each year. "Our challenge as an industry is to find a new way to express emotion and deliver something that doesn't look like something that hasn't been seen before. We need to pay attention to that or the industry will start to shrink."

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Read More: Making of 'Peanuts Movie': How Blue Sky Studios Won Over the Schulz Family

Along with Saldanha and Martino, the opening was attended by Oscar winner and studio founder Chris Wedge, Scrat creator Peter de Seve, Ice Age series producer Lori Forte, art director Thomas Cardone and story artist Karen Disher.

"The movies arrive all in one piece in front of an audience, and its reception is shaped by what is happening in the world at the time," said Wedge. "But when you come [to the Paris exhibit], you can see it evolved in its own way years before it appeared and you get a sense of where the ideas came from and what the inspirations were. It gives you a glimpse behind the green curtain.

"It's fairly obvious that in North America, animation is marketed to children first, and then to families to take the kids and if we're lucky it will open to a broader audience," continued Wedge, noting the particular interest in animation art and comics from the Gallic audience. "In France, it's not necessarily children that are interested in comics, the ideas are talking to adults and I think that the main ingredient is the comedy. It's about going to worlds we haven't been to before and exploring fantasy that hopefully appeals to everybody."

Citing the success of the 2013 Tim Burton exhibit at New York's MoMA, de Seve said there is increasing interest in animation art in the U.S.: "The audience really enjoys this stuff. It's contemporary art, and contemporary art that they can understand and enjoy. I think it's not only about educating [the audience] but about going to a museum and seeing work that you can relate to."

Martino added that sketches can often easily capture a moment or an emotion, as demonstrated in the recent viral sketches that have marked the global outpouring of sympathy after the Paris and Brussels terror attacks.

"There are things you can say in a drawing that you can't say in the same way in words. There can be something communicated about what is going on in the world through a picture, and sometimes with the lack of words it can be all the more striking and powerful," he said.

Blue Sky is currently working on completing Ferdinand, the story of a bull that refuses to fight and instead prefers flowers, which is set for release in 2017.

The exhibit at Musee Art Ludique will run until Sept. 25.

Read More: Brussels Attacks: Tintin Cartoon Becomes Social Media Symbol
Let's face it: Asking your boss for time off is awkward. That's true whether you're grappling with sick day guilt or feeling too overworked to take a much-needed vacation. But perhaps one of the more anxiety-inducing requests is asking a manager for time away to celebrate a religious holiday, especially when you don't share beliefs.

You might feel self-conscious discussing religion with a manager. Maybe you worry that your boss will roll his eyes at your rituals. But can he refuse to let you take the day off? The short answer: kind of, sort of, maybe.

Here's what to know about your rights.

[Read: 8 Ways You're Annoying Your Co-Workers During the Holidays.]

You have protections. In most cases, employers have a legal obligation to provide accommodation for religious observances and practices.

Title VII under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 says that employers of more than 15 workers must "reasonably accommodate" employees' sincerely held religious beliefs. That's true unless it causes "undue hardship" on the employer's business, meaning that it's prohibitively expensive, endangers your co-workers, infringes on other employees' rights or something equally damaging.

"If you say, 'I want the day off for Easter or Passover,' and the employer can show more than a small cost in dollars or manpower, then they don't have to accommodate it," says David Barkey, religious freedom counsel for the Anti-Defamation League, a national civil rights organization.

Check your state. "Most states have their own discrimination laws, and religion is a commonly protected class," says Sachi Barreiro, a legal editor specializing in employment law at Nolo, a law resource website.

One example is California, which extends protections to organizations with just five employees. On the other side is Georgia, which has no state anti-discrimination laws covering private employees.

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[Read: 5 Workplace Laws Your Employer Might Be Violating.]

Explain your beliefs. Your beliefs must be "sincerely held." So, no, you can't argue that veganism is a religious belief. You won't have much luck when claiming to follow the teachings of the Great Prophet Kanye West. "I pray to the Church of the Washington Redskins and must therefore take Sundays off" isn't a sincerely held belief, says Edward Yost, HR business partner for the Society for Human Resource Management.

In general, you're protected as part of "some sort of established, organized religion," Barreiro says. If you observe traditions that your co-workers and managers aren't familiar with, it's your task to explain to your employer what you're observing and what accommodations you're seeking.

"The employee and employers are obligated to engage in the sharing of information," Yost says. "It stops short of 'Go get me a note from your clergy.'"

Ask in advance. The nice thing about religious holidays is that, unlike sick days or vacation time, employees typically know what dates they'll need off months, or years, in advance. Put it on your boss's radar early, experts say, so that if another three employees ask for the same holiday off, you'll be first in line. Why? If too many workers all ask for the same holiday, your employer could argue that it causes "undue hardship" to let all of you take the day off.

It's also best to ask in an email so that you have a record, especially if you're asking months ahead of time. When describing what you need, stick to the basics, including the holiday you're celebrating and the dates you're requesting.

Once you've secured that time away from the office, you may still need to sacrifice a vacation day or agree to unpaid leave.

[Read: 7 Ways to Ruin Employee Morale During the Holidays.]

Complain. If you feel that your rights are being violated, take it up the internal chain before lodging an external complaint, experts say. Talk to your manager's boss or the human resources department. And if all else fails, an attorney or local fair employment practices organization may be able to answer any questions and help you plan next steps.

Susannah Snider is the Careers editor at U.S. News. She previously covered paying for college and graduate school. You can follow her on Twitter or email her at ssnider@usnews.com.
Rio de Janeiro (AFP) - Brazil's former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is raising hackles after warning that the mega Petrobras corruption probe is paralyzing essential sectors of the Brazilian economy, like oil and construction.

Many saw Lula's comments as a cynical attempt to deflect public attention from a two-year-old investigation, now that he has been implicated in the widening corruption scandal.

But the issue he touched on, invoking the IMF as an authority, is at the center of a growing debate among analysts and economists.

At a meeting with union organizers in Sao Paulo on Wednesday, the former machinist said the probe was necessary but asked "whether it's not possible to combat corruption without closing companies... and without causing unemployment."

According to the IMF, he said, a 2.5 percentage point contraction in Brazil's economy was attributable "to the panic created in Brazilian society."

"When this is all over, there could be a lot of people in jail, but there could also be millions of unemployed," he said.

The IMF in January projected that the Brazilian economy would shrink by 3.5 percent this year, 2.5 percentage points more than its previous estimate. In 2015, the Brazilian economy sank 3.8 percent.

According to GO Associados consultancy, the corruption probe has reduced Brazil's GDP by about 3.6 percentage points, taking into account direct and indirect effects as well as the incomes of hundreds of thousands of employees.

Unemployment, meanwhile, has continued to climb, rising to 8.2 percent in February compared to 5.8 percent a year earlier.

Maurice Obstfeld, the IMF's chief economist, attributed the worsening outlook to the "political configuration" of Brazil, with the "initiation of impeachment proceedings (against current President Dilma Rousseff) and the increasing scope of corruption allegations."

These factors, he said, "have undermined confidence, as has the continued deterioration of the fiscal outlook."

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- Probe did 'no damage' -

Reaction to Lula's statements has been swift.

Antonio Cesar Bochenek, the president of the Association of Federal Judges of Brazil, said the corruption probe "has done no damage... and has allowed for the recovery of three billion reais ($800 million), as well as goods and property."

"Impunity increases corruption and corruption causes disastrous damage to the economy," Bochenek told newspaper O Estado de Sao Paulo.

For Jose Robalinho Cavalcanti, president of the National Association of Attorneys of the Republic, "Lula does himself a disfavor with such declarations because... he was in charge of running the country and knows very well that the economic situation is formed much more by economic policy than any investigation."

Brazil has been rocked by allegations that construction companies colluded to overbill state oil giant Petrobras by billions of dollars, bribing corrupt executives and politicians to look the other way.

About a hundred people, from Petrobras executives to owners of Brazil's largest construction companies, have already been convicted.

- Making anti-corruption effort a priority -

Since then, "the banking system has suspended credit to the implicated companies and other associated companies," said Gesner Oliveira, a partner at GO Associados consultancy and former president of the Administrative Council of Economic Defense (CADE).

According to a January report by IstoE magazine, Petrobras suspended payments in projects suspected of being part of the corruption, affecting 12,000 refinery operators and shipyards. Deliveries have been halted or delayed at major projects.

But that's not a reason to allow corruption, Oliveira told AFP.

"The fight against corruption is a priority, but its effects can be mitigated," he said.

His organization has proposed punishing corrupt companies but not excluding them from participating in public tenders.

What's most important, Oliveira said, is to improve oversight of both public and private sectors to ensure this type of graft "does not happen again."
By Anthony Boadle BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazil's largest party will decide on Tuesday to break away from President Dilma Rousseff's floundering coalition, party leaders said, sharply raising the odds that the country's first woman president will be impeached amid a corruption scandal. The fractious Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) will decide at its national leadership meeting on the pace of disengagement from the Rousseff administration, in which it holds seven ministerial posts and the vice presidency. A formal rupture appears inevitable and will increase the isolation of the unpopular Rousseff, freeing PMDB members to vote for her impeachment. That makes it likely Rousseff will be temporarily suspended from office by Congress as early as May and replaced by Vice President Michel Temer, leader of the PMDB, while the Senate decides if she should be permanently ousted. In the first step toward an imminent rupture, Tourism Minister Henrique Eduardo Alves, a PMDB leader and former speaker of the lower house of Congress, announced on Monday he was resigning from Rousseff's cabinet. "Dialogue, I regret to say, has been exhausted," Alves said in his resignation letter to Rousseff. Temer aides said the vice president is ready to take over and move fast to restore business confidence in Brazil, in an effort to pull the economy out of a tailspin. Brazilian media reported over the weekend that a team of Temer aides is drawing up a plan for his first weeks as president. Brazil's stocks and currency rose Monday on the prospect of Rousseff's removal. Many blame her for running Latin America's largest economy into the ground, while Temer is widely viewed as far more business friendly. The Economist Intelligence Unit said in a note to clients it no longer expects Rousseff to survive impeachment, joining other risk analysts who have raised the odds of her removal. Party officials calculate that 70 to 80 percent of the 119 voting members of the PMDB directorate will vote to end the party's alliance with Rousseff and the ruling Workers' Party. One told Reuters that 75 had already pledged to do so. Rousseff is an economist by training and a former Marxist guerrilla who was imprisoned and tortured during Brazil's long military dictatorship. She vigorously denies any wrongdoing and rejects impeachment charges that she manipulated government spending accounts to help her re-election in 2014. The impeachment process only adds to the crisis hitting Brazil, shaken by its biggest corruption scandal - an investigation into political kickbacks to the ruling coalition and other parties from contractors working for state oil company Petrobras. Rousseff's government is also grappling with Brazil's worst recession in decades and an epidemic of the mosquito-borne Zika virus, as it scrambles to host the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August. The Petrobras scandal has weakened Rousseff by reaching her inner circle with allegations against her mentor and predecessor, Workers' Party founder Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. An attempt by Rousseff to appoint Lula to her Cabinet was the last straw for many of her allies who saw it as a desperate move to shield him from prosecution by a lower federal court that is overseeing most of the Petrobras case. Brazil's top court is expected to decide later this week if Lula can indeed become a minister. LULA DOWNCAST With the prospect of impeachment ending 13 years of rule by his Workers' Party, Lula said he was "saddened" by the PMDB's exit from a coalition he forged in 2006. The former union leader, who remains Brazil's most influential politician, told foreign reporters in Sao Paulo he thought agreement was still possible. But in Brasilia, a presidential aide said the break was "irreversible" and the Rousseff government was now focusing on individual members of the PMDB and other parties to try to convince them to vote against impeachment by offering government jobs and pork barrel for their districts. Lula also called for tax breaks and other measures to get the economy growing again. The departure of the PMDB is expected to lead other smaller parties to bolt from the governing coalition, which will further undermine Rousseff's ability to muster one third of the votes in Congress needed to block her impeachment. The two largest, the Progressive Party (PP) and the Republican Party (PR), each with 40 seats or more in the lower chamber, have signaled that they are leaving. An impeachment vote is expected as soon as mid-April in the lower house. If she fails to block it with the votes of 171 of its 513 members, Rousseff would face a trial in the Senate where she has lost crucial support among the PMDB. One PMDB senator, Valdir Raupp, said it would be almost impossible for them now to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. PMDB senators believe it would be almost impossible for them to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. Rousseff would be suspended for up to six months at the start of the trial and Temer would become acting president. Temer is already looking at ways to cut public spending to tackle a widening fiscal gap that cost Brazil's its investment grade credit rating, the O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper reported on Sunday. It said a small team of aides led by Wellington Moreira Franco, Rousseff's former civil aviation minister, is considering sweeping welfare cuts in social programs that would be carried out by the finance minister of a Temer government. Two names under consideration for that job are former central bank governors Henrique Meirelles and Arminio Fraga, the newspaper said. A spokesman for Temer declined to comment on the report. (Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Additional reporting by Alonso Soto, Caroline Stauffer, Lisandra Paraguassu and Marcelo Teixeira; Editing by Alistair Bell and Leslie Adler)
Brasilia (AFP) - Brazil's governing coalition faced collapse Tuesday as the main partner to Dilma Rousseff's leftist Workers' Party prepared to quit, leaving the embattled president -- who also faces impeachment -- in dire straits.

Leaders of the PMDB, the country's largest party, said that a decision to break with the Workers' Party was almost certain at a meeting later in the day.

"It will be an exit meeting, a goodbye to the government. We calculate we have a vote of more than 80 percent in favor of quitting," said PMDB lawmaker Osmar Terra.

Senator Aecio Neves, who heads the PSDB opposition party and who narrowly lost to Rousseff when she won reelection in 2014, said: "Dilma's government is finished."

"The exit of the PMDB is the last nail in the coffin," he said.

Rousseff, who is fighting recession, street protests, a mammoth corruption scandal, and the push in Congress for her impeachment, met PMDB ministers Monday to try to convince them to stay.

But a spokesman for party leader Michel Temer -- who as Rousseff's vice president will become interim president if she is impeached -- told AFP that the only hold-up to an exit was a final decision on how long to give PMDB cabinet members to leave their posts.

Already on Monday, Tourism Minister Henrique Alves resigned, saying time had "run out" on the president.

- Impeachment votes -

The PMDB, the mostly centrist and largest party in Brazil, has long been an awkward partner for Rousseff's Workers' Party (PT). But its votes in Congress, where it has 69 of the 513 lower house seats, are important to Rousseff, who needs one third of the lower house to avoid impeachment.

Rousseff also fears that the PMDB's exit will encourage other coalition partners to jump ship.

Lawmakers from both the center-right Progressive Party (PP), which has 49 deputies, and the center-left Social Democratic Party (PSD), which has 32, said their parties would meet this week on a possible split.

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Rousseff faces impeachment on charges that she illegally borrowed money to boost public spending and mask the severity of the recession. A congressional committee is currently tasked with making a recommendation to the full lower house, which would then vote.

The Brazilian bar association filed a new impeachment petition Monday, seeking to expand the accusations to include allegations of involvement by Rousseff in the multi-billion-dollar corruption scandal centered on state oil company Petrobras.

Angry protests erupted in Congress as lawyers filed the papers.

"Putschists!" shouted Rousseff supporters, while the lawyers sang the national anthem in response.

- Desperately seeking allies -

Although technically still vice president, Temer, 75, increasingly resembles a politician preparing for power. He met Monday with opposition leader Aecio Neves, who narrowly lost the 2014 election to Rousseff.

The growing instability has spilled onto the streets with millions of Brazilians marching against Rousseff and smaller, but still vigorous, rallies held in her defense.

Rousseff called on her mentor, former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to become chief of staff so that he could stiffen resolve in the ranks and put his negotiating skills to use.

But the move prompted a swift backlash from opponents who see the appointment as a bid to give Lula ministerial immunity and protect him from corruption allegations related to the Petrobras probe.

The judge leading the probe controversially released a wire-tapped phone conversation between Rousseff and Lula that was interpreted as showing her giving him the post in order to shield him. Lula has forcefully denied this and the wording of the conversation is ambiguous.

The full Supreme Court is expected to issue a definitive ruling on whether Lula can take up his appointment in the coming days.

The endgame in this shifting of alliances is the impeachment battle, where opponents must reach two-thirds of the lower house vote -- 342 deputies -- to open a full trial in the Senate.

In the Senate, another two-thirds vote would force her from office.
Bangui (Central African Republic) (AFP) - The Central African Republic's new president takes office Wednesday, faced with the challenge of reconciling a divided population and rebuilding a shattered country.

Former maths teacher Faustin-Archange Touadera, 58, was the surprise winner of February's run-off election in the country that had been wracked by three years of communal violence.

The spiral of unrest between Muslim and Christian militias has left thousands dead, displaced more than 400,000 and disrupted farming, transport and public services in one of the world's poorest nations.

The violence was so serious that it prompted a military intervention by France -- the former colonial power -- and led to the deployment of a UN peacekeeping force.

Several heads of state and delegations from the region and partners including the UN and France are expected to attend Touadera's swearing-in in the capital Bangui.

The ceremony marks the last stage of the political transition that began after the toppling of Christian former president Francois Bozize in 2013 by a rebellion of the predominantly Muslim Seleka militia.

And though a new president has been elected and a new constitution adopted, the country's parliament is still not in place. The second round of postponed legislative elections is scheduled for Thursday.

The elections came after 93 percent of voters backed a constitutional referendum that cleared the way for the vote.

It also followed Pope Francis' groundbreaking trip to the country in November, his first to a war zone, during which he made an impassioned plea for peace and reconciliation.

- 'Weight of responsibility' -

Immediately after his election Touadera declared he "understood the weight of responsibility" on his shoulders.

Previously prime minister under Bozize between 2008-2013, Touadera will face enormous economic and security pressures from the moment he sets foot in the presidential palace.

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Part of his popular appeal stems from a measure he introduced during his time as premier: paying government salaries directly into bank accounts, ending decades of pay arrears and unpaid wages.

But another former prime minister has warned that Touadera faces an uphill struggle raising revenues.

"(The country) remains cut off from its income due to the systematic bleeding of revenue by armed groups that have set themselves up as customs officers, tax officials," said Enoch Derant Lakoue, a presidential candidate.

Central African economist Achille Nzotene added: "It's a balancing act in terms of security, and he must engage in a titanic economic recovery effort."

And if he fails, "returning to square one will be fatal".

Like his predecessors, Touadera will be largely dependent on the international community to underwrite the finances and security of his government.

Ten thousand UN peacekeepers and several hundred French soldiers are still deployed in the country.

But despite the challenges, Touadera takes office with a strong mandate having secured almost 63 percent of the vote despite not being among the favourites at the start of the campaign.

His main opponent Anicet-Georges Dologuele polled just 37 percent.

"Touadera is the candidate of the people... and is already a considerable asset for the reconstruction of the country," said Muriele Nzondo, a Bangui shopkeeper.

But despite his obvious popularity, many consider him at least partially responsible for the failings of the Bozize era.

Student Euloge Ngate Linzonzo said: "It is true that he has the people with him, but not all of them. He is responsible for the management of the Bozize regime that threw the country into chaos through its inaction.

"We can't be sure today that he'll have a firm enough hand to deal with the militias that have sown terror."
Yahoo Singapore file photo

Team Cap is coming our way. Chris Evans, Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan are headed to Singapore as part of the promotional world tour for Captain America: Civil War.

Come 21 April, Evans (Captain America), Mackie (Falcon) and Stan (Winter Soldier/Bucky) will make an appearance at a blue carpet event at the Marina Bay Sands Skating Rink. They will be accompanied by the movies co-director Joe Russo.

The event is being held a week before the movie opens in Singapore.

Captain America: Civil War sees the Avengers fracturing into two camps, led by Captain America and Iron Man, played by Robert Downey Jr, respectively. Accordingly, the cast is splitting into Team Cap and Team Iron Man for the world tour.

MBS is also hosting a series of Civil War-themed activities from 21 April.

More updates on the event can be found at the Marvel Facebook page.
Moscow (AFP) - Russia's role in helping Syrian forces recapture the ancient city of Palmyra has left the West scrambling to figure out President Vladimir Putin's game plan, following hopes he was edging away from supporting President Bashar al-Assad.

The seizure of the UNESCO World Heritage site on Sunday by forces fighting for Assad delivered the biggest blow so far to Islamic State jihadists and is a major coup both for Damascus and Moscow.

The military action comes after Putin announced he was withdrawing most of his forces from Syria, brokered with the United States a ceasefire in the country and raised Western hopes that Russia is edging away from its strong support for Assad.

"Russia is playing a decisive role in the (Palmyra) advance," said analyst Alexander Khramchikhin of the Institute of Political and Military Analysis in Moscow.

Russia's state media has highly publicised the return of planes from Syria after Putin's surprise withdrawal order on March 14, and on Monday showed soldiers loading three combat helicopters onto a Russia-bound cargo plane.

But analysts told AFP that the withdrawal has been very limited, with estimates ranging between 10 and 25 percent of Russia's forces in Syria.

- Special forces on ground -

Rather than spelling an end to Moscow's role in the conflict, the weeks since the military drawdown started have seen the Kremlin admit an even deeper involvement in the fighting.

In the run up to the taking of Palmyra, Moscow openly admitted for the first time since it launched it operations in Syria last September that it has special forces on the ground as part of the offensive.

A special forces officer who was directing air strikes was earlier killed near Palmyra, the Russian military said Thursday, adding that he had been working there for just a week.

Armed forces chief Valery Gerasimov on Monday said Palmyra was "liberated thanks to the support of Russia's airforce and special operations forces".

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An AFP correspondent saw Russian soldiers on the ground in Palmyra operating artillery, and a Syrian military source there said that the Russians are "widely involved in the battle for Palmyra, whether in fighting directly on the ground, with their planes, or by intercepting communications."

Moscow would be sending more soldiers in the coming days to help demine Palmyra, the Russian defence ministry said Monday.

- Switch in focus -

Russian military analyst Vladimir Yevseyev said that the month-old ceasefire hammered out by Putin and US President Barack Obama has allowed Moscow and Assad to refocus their attacks from moderate opposition groups to the jihadists.

The truce "lets both the Russian airforce and Syrian army concentrate their power," Yevseyev told AFP.

"By concentrating their efforts in specific directions there can be a breakthrough, like in Palmyra," he said.

The commander of Russian forces in Syria, Alexander Dvornikov, said last week that the capture of Palmyra would "open up the road to (IS strongholds) Raqa and Deir Ezzor and create conditions for reaching and taking control of the border with Iraq."

Syria's military on Sunday confirmed that a battle for Raqa -- the de-facto capital of IS jihadists -- is the plan.

And some analysts said that rather than hoping for Moscow to back away from Assad the West should get used to the idea that Moscow is going to back him for the long run.

"All the talk in the West that Russia was going to ditch Assad was nonsense," Pavel Felgengauer, a Russian military analyst who writes for opposition newspaper Novaya Gazeta, said.

"We are not planning to abandon him now. Russia wants Assad to stay in power and the goal is to give him a chance to win the civil war."
When Justin Grad went to the University of Iowa's law school, he wanted to land a job at a prestigious firm and get on the lucrative partnership track.

Upon graduating in 2009, he did go on to practice corporate law at Latham & Watkins' Orange County, California, office. Grad was involved in mergers and acquisitions and capital market work and was "running my own deals." He loved his job, but 80-hour-plus weeks were not conducive to spending time with his family.

So in 2014, Grad shifted gears into a position as corporate counsel at Amazon in Seattle, where he could indulge his interest in technology and aim for a better work-life balance.

He's found the right mix at Amazon, where he is providing legal, compliance and development-related support for Kindle products and associated services. Grad feels he is staying challenged and likes the small team-based practice approach he's found at the company.

For many young attorneys, the in-house choice has become an increasingly common route.

"Corporate legal departments are expanding their teams to bring more work in-house and reduce spending on outside counsel," notes the Robert Half Legal "2016 Salary Guide for the Legal Field." Companies want people "who can handle a wide range of business-related legal matters, including expansion into new products and markets, executive compensation, and labor and employment disputes."

Amar Sarwal, vice president and chief legal strategist at the Association of Corporate Counsel, has advice for law school students thinking about in-house careers: Take some business courses.



[Discover 10 diverse careers for law school graduates.]

Companies want attorneys who are not afraid of math, "are business-minded and who can manage teams," he says.

Three-quarters of in-house lawyers in the U.S. earn a base salary between $100,000 and $299,000; half of these earn less than $200,000, according to the association's "2015 ACC Global Census."

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While many attorneys who make the jump from a law firm to a company can expect a pay cut as a trade-off for enjoying the better hours, Grad says he lucked out with his job change; Amazon's offer was on the generous side. For many in-house attorneys, part of the compensation package comes in the form of company stock.

Over time, Grad says, "one can win big or lose big."

[See median starting salaries for J.D. grads.]

Prospective lawyers can also explore other in-demand or emerging fields.

-- Health care attorney: Robert Half Legal, one of the nation's largest legal staffing companies, forecasts that lawyers with health care expertise will find their skills in high demand by government agencies, medical providers and law firms involved with issues tied to medical research, Medicare fraud and health care implementation. Government projections put job growth for health care attorneys at 23 percent through 2024.

-- Data privacy attorney: Cyberattacks and privacy breaches are increasingly top of mind for companies, governments and other entities and so are changes in state and federal regulatory law that are being made to address these challenges. Charles Volkert, executive director of Robert Half Legal, notes that attorneys entering this in-demand practice area are receiving increases of 5 to 7 percent over the average base salaries seen by their peers.

-- Regulated substances specialist: ArcView Market Research reports that U.S. legal cannabis market sales grew from $4.6 billion to $5.4 billion in 2015, driving expansion of law firms' regulated substances practices and even stand-alone cannabis specialties. So far, mostly regional or smaller firms have ventured into advising clients ranging from growers and dispensers to security firms. But big law is also eyeing the potential.

This story is excerpted from the U.S. News "Best Graduate Schools 2017" guidebook, which features in-depth articles, rankings and data.
By Suzannah Gonzales

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Monday named a veteran black police supervisor to lead the department as he tries to rebuild the third-biggest U.S. city's trust in a police force facing a federal investigation and racism accusations.

Eddie Johnson, the 55-year-old head of the police department's patrol division, is the third superintendent to lead the Chicago Police Department in less than four months.

The Democratic mayor said Johnson, who grew up in a city housing project and started as a beat officer, had a strong record of fighting crime in his 27 years on the force and would help rebuild morale among police.

"He has the command, the character and the capability to lead the department at this critical juncture," said Emanuel, a former chief of staff to President Barack Obama.

The tarnished image of Chicago's police has been a political liability for Emanuel, who defied calls to resign last year after days of protests over a white officer's shooting of black teenager Laquan McDonald.

That case was one of numerous fatal police shootings of unarmed African-Americans across the United States that have stirred outrage and raised questions of racial bias in policing.

In picking Johnson, Emanuel rejected recommendations made by a civilian board that had selected three finalists.

Johnson's selection answered calls from civic leaders for an African-American veteran of the force to be chosen. He also had the support of a powerful contingent of minority aldermen, which had not endorsed the black finalist from inside the force, local media said.

Johnson, who did not apply for the position, was named to the job on an interim basis, but the appointment is widely expected to be made permanent if his tenure proceeds smoothly.

Johnson said that trust was the key to good policing.

"It is the central challenge facing Chicago today. I know that ... trust has been broken too often, not just in Chicago but across America where abusive police practices have occurred," he told a news conference.

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The law requires Emanuel to pick a candidate recommended by the Chicago Police Board. The board will begin a new search, and Johnson said he would apply.

Their recommended finalists for the job in this round included two African-Americans: Cedric Alexander, DeKalb County, Georgia public safety director, and Eugene Williams, Chicago's police deputy superintendent. Anne Kirkpatrick, retired Spokane, Washington police chief, is white.

Johnson said he did not apply for the post in support of John Escalante, who was named interim superintendent in December. Escalante replaced Gerry McCarthy, who was ousted amid public outrage that the city delayed for more than a year the release of a video that led to first-degree murder charges against the officer in the McDonald shooting.

In the aftermath of the protests, the U.S. Justice Department launched an investigation into Chicago police shootings.

The three candidates chosen as finalists all had good attributes, but only Johnson met all qualifications, the mayor said without providing details.

Of 405 people shot by Chicago police over the past eight years, 74 percent were black. The city's population is about one-third black.

(Additional reporting by Mark Weinraub and Justin Madden in Chicago; Editing by Ben Klayman and Cynthia Osterman)
By Rod Nickel WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Reuters) - Canada and China are in talks about Beijing's plans to toughen its standard on Canadian canola imports, an industry official said on Monday, just days before the change takes effect. China's quarantine authority, AQSIQ, notified the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) last month that it would allow no more than 1 percent of foreign material, such as straw and seeds from other plants, in canola shipments starting April 1. The current limit is 2.5 percent. Exporters have said the new standard by Canada's biggest canola export market, arising from a dispute about a harmful fungus, would be difficult and costly to meet. "There are active negotiations underway," said Patti Miller, president of the Canola Council of Canada, an industry group whose directors include farmers as well as exporters and processors Cargill Ltd, Richardson International, Viterra Inc, Bunge Ltd and Archer Daniels Midland Co . "Both government and industry would like to have a permanent resolution. The focus of the negotiation is how we get there." Miller, speaking by email, said she could not comment on specifics. Ottawa is leading negotiations for Canada, with the council's input, she said. The Western Producer newspaper reported on Thursday that China may delay implementation, citing Canadian industry sources. CFIA spokeswoman Maria Kubacki confirmed the Canadian and Chinese governments are in talks, but said it was premature to comment on possible outcomes. Canada is the world's biggest producer and exporter of canola, also called rapeseed, which is used mainly to produce vegetable oil. Blackleg disease, caused by a fungus common in Canada, can significantly reduce crop yields, and China has raised concerns since 2009 about the risk of it spreading to the country through imports. Some traders in both countries said the real issue behind the new standard was that China had ample stocks of rapeseed oil and wanted to slow imports. A spokesman at the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa could not comment. ICE Canada canola futures lost 8 percent after China notified Canada of the pending change on Feb. 23. They bottomed out on March 2 and since have recovered the losses. They climbed 0.8 percent on Monday. (Reporting by Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Manitoba; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Alan Crosby)
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's military will end so-called paid for services within the next three years, state media said on Monday, the latest move to modernize the armed forces amid a reform and anti-corruption push. The People's Liberation Army announced the move in November, meaning non-core activities such as military-run hospitals and hotels open to the public will be ditched. The military was banned from overt commercial activities in 1998, but allowed some exceptions. According to a circular issued by the Central Military Commission, headed by President Xi Jinping, the armed forces must not sign any new contracts for paid services and allow existing contracts to expire. The notice was carried on the front page of the People's Liberation Army Daily. Ending all paid services is "an important political task" and all members of the military must fully implement the decision, the notice said. Services that fulfill an important social security function will be allowed to be included under a new "civil-military integration" scheme, it added, a program the government has given few details about. The official Xinhua news agency said the change had been introduced "to reduce corruption in the army". The military is reeling from an anti-corruption campaign Xi launched three years ago, which has seen dozens of officers investigated, including two former vice chairmen of the Central Military Commission, Guo Boxiong and Xu Caihou. Xu died of cancer last year before he went on trial. Guo has yet to face a court. Gong Fangbin, a professor at the PLA's National Defence University, told the state-run Global Times newspaper the end of paid-for services would help with the military's modernization. "Paid services can sometimes encourage corruption and the military should focus on national defense," Gong said. "The announcement also aims to improve the military's combat capability." The People's Liberation Army Daily said in editorial the military's real focus should be on how to win wars, and seeking profits would only distract them. "The military's basic function is to fight, and deviating from that core activity will bring endless disaster," it said. Xi's push to reform the military coincides with China becoming more assertive in its territorial disputes in the East and South China Seas. Its navy is investing in submarines and aircraft carriers and its air force is developing stealth fighters. The armed forces are also losing 300,000 members, following a surprise announcement by Xi in September. The reforms have proven controversial, and the military's newspaper has published commentaries warning of opposition to the changes and concern about jobs. (Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Robert Birsel)
BEIJING (Reuters) - China has ordered power transmission companies to provide grid connectivity for all renewable power generation sources and end a bottleneck that has left a large amount of clean power idle, the country's energy regulator said on Monday. The grid companies have been ordered to plug in all renewable power sources that comply with their technical standards, the National Energy Administration (NEA) said. China's power is primarily delivered by the State Grid Corp of China [STGRD.UL] and the China Southern Power Grid Co [CNPOW.UL], with the latter responsible for delivering electricity in five southern provinces and regions. China has become the world's biggest wind and solar power user, but a large amount of renewable power has not been able to reach the grid because transmission capabilities are lagging generating capacity by around three to five years. The State Grid is banking on building new ultra-high voltage (UHV) long-distance transmission lines to fill the gap. "The construction of UHV lines are to help with cross-regional power delivery," said Wang Yanfang, a State Grid spokeswoman, referring to the need to deliver power from remoter regions to energy-hungry eastern China. Northern and western provinces, where energy resources are plentiful, are far from the industrial hubs in the nation's eastern coastal regions. To transport surplus power from the north and west, China currently has 17 UHV transmission lines in operation or under construction. Suppliers generating power with wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and wave energy will benefit from the full integration plan, the NEA said. Integration will also encourage wind and solar power suppliers to participate in the country's pilot power trading program, although grid companies will also be forced to make guaranteed purchases of a portion of the power generated. "The authorities and provincial grid companies should promote cross-regional trading of renewable power to scale up its acceptance," the NEA said. The regulator said the volume of electricity the grid is forced to buy will be determined by technical criteria such as transmission capacity and end-user demand in regions where capacity has been idled. The mandatory contracts mean that renewable power companies will still be compensated if they are squeezed out by other suppliers, said the NEA. Other renewable sources, such as biomass, geothermal, wave and small-scale solar power, will be integrated with the grid without the need to trade on the market. (Reporting By Kathy Chen and David Stanway)
Moscow (AFP) - CIA director John Brennan visited Moscow in early March to discuss Syria and put the case for the departure of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, a US official said Monday.

While meeting Russian officials, the spy agency chief "reiterated the US government's consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria, and the need for Assads departure," the US official told AFP.

Brennan also stressed "the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria," the US official said.

Russian deputy foreign minister Oleg Syromolotov confirmed Brennan's visit earlier Monday, telling journalists that "the fact that Brennan was here was not hidden," Interfax news agency reported.

"I know for sure that he was at the Federal Security Service (FSB)," Syromolotov added referring to the successor to the Soviet era KGB.

Syromolotov said Brennan did not visit the foreign ministry but did meet several other officials.

The senior diplomat denied that Brennan's visit was linked to Russia's decision announced on March 14 to withdraw most of its forces from Syria, calling the events "absolutely unconnected."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that he could not comment, adding that Brennan had "no contacts with the Kremlin".

In November last year Brennan said in Washington that the CIA had been working closely with Russia to discuss the threat of the Islamic State group "despite the policy difference we may have in Syria and Ukraine."
MOSCOW (Reuters) - The director of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency raised the issue of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad leaving power when he visited Moscow at the start of March, RIA news agency said on Monday, citing the U.S. Embassy in Russia. CIA Director John Brennan also discussed the observance of the ceasefire in Syria, the news agency said. Dean Boyd, the CIA's chief spokesman, confirmed to Reuters that Brennan had visited Moscow in early March and that Syrian issues were on the agenda. It is unusual for the CIA publicly to discuss its chief's travels or the subjects of his discussions with foreign officials. Russia's Interfax news agency quoted Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov as saying earlier on Monday that Brennan had meetings at Russia's Federal Security Service, among other places, and his visit was not linked to the decision by Moscow to begin withdrawing its forces from Syria. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said later on Monday that there had been no contacts between Brennan and the Kremlin during the visit. Brennan's objective was "to emphasize with Russian officials the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria," the CIA said in an emailed statement. The CIA director reiterated to Russian officials that American support for a "genuine political transition in Syria," which would involve "Assad's departure in order to facilitate a transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people," the statement said. (Reporting by Anton Zverev and Polina Devitt in Moscow and Mark Hosenball in Washington, writing by Dmitry Solovyov; editing by Don Durfee and G Crosse)
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.Interstate Highway 30 runs over the Arkansas River. Every day 126,000 cars travel along it, to North Little Rock and suburbs farther afield. Things usually run smoothly, but some days, traffic builds up around rush hour. Also, the Federal Highway Administration has declared the bridge to be structurally deficient. For these reasons, state planners want to tear down the existing six-lane freeway and erect in its place a behemoth: a 10-lane highway.

This is happening at a time when a revitalization of the River Market district, located on the Arkansas River just beside the highway, is starting to take hold. Condos are popping up in the area, next to pubs and restaurants and book stores, creating a type of walkable downtown area that hasnt been present in Little Rock for decades.

Little Rocks Tim McKuin says that the highway expansion will end that revival. He is so opposed to this proposal that he created a group, Improve 30 Crossing, to fight against it. He says a 10-lane freeway would harm the wetlands near the river and cause noise and pollution harmful to nearby residents. (An initial plan sought to make the highway 12 lanes.) They say, For future success, we have to bring more and more cars to downtown Little Rock, but its already dominated by parking, he told me, as we walked through the River Market district and restaurants and bars brimming with people on a spring night. If we bring 50,000 more cars a day its going to be harder for this area to expand.

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Half a century ago, urban planners pushed for the erection of freeways through the downtowns of major cities across America. The idea was to make it easier for residents to travel between cities and from inner cities to the suburbs. These projects often included urban renewal efforts that tore up poor, historically black neighborhoods, and replaced them with office buildings and parking lots. Little Rock had one such neighborhood, Ninth Street, which now sits across the highway from the River Market district and is all but abandoned, with one original building remaining. That building hosts a business that is selling decals, pennants, and American and Confederate flags.

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Now, though, Baby Boomers and Millennials are moving back to city centers, eager to get rid of cars and walk to work and to nightlife. In many cities, including Milwaukee and Boston, planners have tried to encourage that walkability by tearing down urban freeways and putting parks and new businesses in their place.

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In many other cities, though, including Little Rock, states are doubling down on highways, expanding lanes and building more concrete structures through residential or urban areas. Colorado wants to spend $1.2 billion to widen I-70 in Denver. Louisville is planning to widen I-71 to six lanes, from four. Iowa is widening U.S. 20 to four lanes. And in Birmingham, the state of Alabama wants to widen I-20/59, which passes right through the city center. Its a testament to Americans continuing obsession with carscitizens have relied on them for decades, and dont want to think about a life without them. No matter the effects on the city underneath.

If [the Alabama Department of Transportation] proceeds unabated, they will be reinforcing something that has become a barrier in our community for 50 years, and making sure the barrier stays in place for the next 50, Darrell OQuinn, a resident of Birmingham who opposes the widening there, told me.

A rendering of the new I-20/59 in Birmingham (Volkert / Alabama Department Of Transportation)

The expansions are curious especially given the numerous studies that show that widening roads doesnt reduce traffic. When Texas expanded the Katy Freeway in Houston to 26 lanes to reduce congestion, for example, travel times increased by 30 percent in the morning and 55 percent in the evening.

Congestion has been looked at pretty carefully [and the conclusion is that] its difficult to build your way out, said Robert Krol, a professor at Cal State Northridge who has studied this issue.

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But it can be difficult to dial back highway spending. Theres much more federal money available for highways than for anything else, and that funding is apportioned to states, which can go forward on highway projects without much oversight. Though they could invest in transit or smaller networks of streets, states have prioritized highway construction for more than the past half-century, and its easier to keep doing that than to dramatically rework their budgets. And when state transportation departments spend money that comes from outside, they are less likely to feel accountable to local communities than they would be if they were spending local tax dollars.

In Little Rock, the highway I-30 needs to be repaired, the state says, because of heavy traffic on the bridge that brings the highway over the river. The bridge would be unsafe during a seismic event, according to the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department, simply called the Highway Department by locals. The Highway Department has put forth a plan, 30 Crossing, that would widen both I-30 and I-40. In a 2015 application for a federal TIGER grant, the Highway Department calls it the largest and most ambitious project ever planned to be undertaken by the department.

Theres no question that cars are the dominant method of transportation in Arkansas. The states is the 13th largest highway system in the country (in terms of miles of roads), even though its population is the 33rd largest. In 2014, the last year for which data is available, the top 10 of the states Highway Department contracts were all for highways, including $38 million for the widening of Interstate 40 and $21 million for widening another highway, 63.

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In 2012, voters passed a Constitutional Amendment that levied a half-cent sales tax to support a series of road expansions that the Highway Department called the largest single highway program in the history of Arkansas, even as receipts from the gas tax were shrinking. But when Pulaski County, where Little Rock is located, asked voters to pass a transit tax earlier this year to fund more bus routes, it failed 56 to 44 percent.

A cyclist rides under I-30 towards the Clinton Presidential Library. (Alana Semuels / The Atlantic)

The support for highways could be because people in the region are moving further from the city center, to suburbs served by the highways. Between 2010 and 2015, suburbs such as Austin grew 25 percent between 2010 and 2015, while Bryant grew 19.6 percent, according to the regions Metropolitan Planning Organization, called Metroplan. Little Rock grew up 3.1 percent in population, and Pulaski County, where Little Rock is located, grew just 3.3 percent, while Saline County grew 8.7 percent.

Suburbs often grow when highways are particularly robust; if people can quickly get out of the city center to far-flung neighborhoods, theres little incentive for them to stay in the city. But the causal arrow runs both ways: Once there are robust suburbs, the residents there tend to support projects that will benefit them, and those projects include roads that will supposedly make their commutes faster.

Regional politics often favor spending on resources to suburbs, especially when their populations grow so quickly, according to Joseph DiMento, a professor at UC Irvine who has studied the construction of urban freeways.

Once people move to the suburbs, they want to be serviced, and historically, the suburbs were wealthier and more politically important, so their votes would go for replacing the freeway and improving it, rather than displacing it, he said.

Theres another factor that leads to more and more building of highways. Highway departments in many states operate as independent fiefdoms with little oversight or accountability. They often over-estimate the benefits of widening highways or of building new ones, while under-estimating costs, said Krol, the CSUN professor. Thats the case in Arkansas, according to Warwick Sabin, a state representative who opposes the highway widening. The Highway Department is governed by an appointed commission created in the 1950s as a response to corruption, he said. Members serve 10-year terms.

Over the years, whats developed is that the Highway Department doesnt feel accountable to members of the Legislature, and by extension, they dont feel accountable to the voters or citizens, or anybody else in the state of Arkansas, he told me.

The Highway Department must first get approval from Metroplan to go forward because the proposed highway would be wider than policy allows in the regions long-range plan. It needs a waiver; Metroplan has not indicated how it will vote. Sabin says that as city leaders have expressed concerns about the widening plan, the department has threatened to pull funding entirely and spend it somewhere else in the state if it doesnt get to expand the lanes.

They act like a spoiled brat in the playground, Sabin told me.

A Highway Department spokesman told me that the funding for the project was not geographically tied, and that it could be moved elsewhere in the state. When I asked him about locals who disapprove of the project, he referred me to a FAQ on the departments website.

Will widening the interstate necessitate additional highway widening, urban sprawl and inner city job loss? the relevant question asks.The answer leaves little question as to what needsand which peoplethe state is thinking about in expanding the highway. The highways must be widened, the state answers, because the region is projected to grow by 220,000 people in the next 25 years, with 75 percent of that growth occurring outside of Pulaski County. Severe congestion on I-30 near downtown Little Rock and long commutes to the Central Business District could incentivize businesses to move out of downtown and to the suburbs, it says.

In Alabama, the highway department is proceeding with the plan to expand I-20/59, even though business groups have come out against it and a nonprofit has filed a lawsuit against it. OQuinn, the executive director of that group, Move I-20/59, suspects the state wants to get the work done before a judge decides on the lawsuit.

They are actively trying to outrun us, he told me.

Tim McKuin shows where the highway expansion would go. (Alana Semuels / The Atlantic)

After McKuin and I walked through the River Market District, we headed towards I-30, which is at the east end of the area, and separates it from the glass structure of the Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. We walked towards the highway along a bike and running trail that stretches for miles down the Arkansas River, past an outdoor amphitheater and a playground filled with kids. As we approached the I-30 bridge, the noise from cars above got louder. About 20 yards away from where the highway towered above, McKuin stopped.

This is where the expansion would end, he said, looking up at the sky that could soon be covered by more highway, and then down at the kids riding their bikes underneath.

Then McKuin and I went to Ninth Street, the historically black neighborhood that had been decimated by the construction of a separate freeway, I-630, between 1969 and 1985. Today, its largely abandoned, with parking lots, and fenced-in plots of land. McKuin pointed out the historically black churches that used to be attended by people who would walk from their homes. Now, there are few homes, and those that exist seem empty. There are also few local stores. We walked down the street, and as the highway hummed nearby, we found a sidewalk where people used to walk. Today, it disappears into overgrown grass.

Read more from The Atlantic:

This article was originally published on The Atlantic.
Bogota (AFP) - Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos told the FARC rebels Monday to set a date to disarm, after a self-imposed March 23 deadline to sign a peace deal passed unmet.

"The government demands a set, precise and clear date to finish the disarmament process," he said in an address from the presidential palace.

Santos has staked his presidency on bringing peace to Colombia, where the FARC have been fighting the government for more than half a century, a conflict that has killed more than 260,000 people.

The two sides have recently announced advances in a more than three-year-old peace process in the Cuban capital, Havana.

But key questions remain unsettled, including disarmament.

In September, the two sides agreed the Marxist rebels would begin disarming "at the latest 60 days after the signing of the final accord."

But they did not set a date to finish disarming.

Santos said the lack of clarity on that issue was one of the reasons the two sides failed to sign a peace deal by the March deadline they had announced with great fanfare six months before.

The peace process aims to turn the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) from a guerrilla group to a political party.

So far, the two sides have reached deals on four of their six agenda items: justice for victims, land reform, a political role for ex-rebels and fighting the drug trafficking that fuels the conflict.

The unsettled issues are disarmament and how to ratify the final accord.
(Reuters) - A decision on whether to charge two Minneapolis police officers in the shooting death of a 24-year-old black man last November is expected this week, a spokesman for the prosecutor's office said on Monday.

Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman said in February that he hoped to decide by the end of March whether there was sufficient evidence to charge Mark Ringgenberg and Dustin Schwarze, the officers involved in the shooting of Jamar Clark.

Chuck Laszewski, a spokesman for Freeman, said that timeline has not changed.

Freeman said earlier this month that he would not empanel a grand jury to look at the case, and that he himself would make the determination whether there is sufficient evidence to charge the officers.

The shooting of Clark came at a time of fierce national debate over the use of lethal force by police, especially against black men. Minneapolis was among a number of U.S. cities that have seen protests over police killings.

Police said they had responded to a report of an assault in north Minneapolis shortly after midnight on Nov. 15, and said Clark was shot during a struggle after he confronted paramedics and disrupted their ability to give aid to another person. He died the next day at the hospital.

Some witnesses said Clark was handcuffed or restrained on the ground when he was shot, while authorities have said there was a scuffle and Clark was trying to get a police officer's gun.

Protesters had demanded that a special prosecutor handle the decision on whether to charge the officers.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department is reviewing how the city of Minneapolis responded to the protests after the shooting.

(Reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit; Editing by Fiona Ortiz)
Consider this the first salvo in a potential Southern California convention war.

D23 Expo, the Disney-owned pop culture event focusing on Disney, Marvel and Lucasfilm properties, said on Monday that next year's Anaheim event will take place July 14-16 - a space in the calendar more commonly associated with Comic-Con International's San Diego Comic-Con.

The biannual event will once again take place at the Anaheim Convention Center. The three-day convention will feature Mousequerade, a fan-cosplay contest, as well as an all-new exhibit curated by the Walt Disney Archives and the Disney Legends Ceremony, celebrating the work of those who have contributed to the House of Mouse and related companies throughout their long history. Tickets for the event will go on sale online July 14, 2016.

While dates for San Diego Comic-Con 2017 have yet to be officially announced, it's been speculated for some time that the event will be held July 19-23 after the San Diego Convention Center added an unnamed "private convention with trade show" to its calendar for those dates.

Traditionally, SDCC runs in the final two weeks of July; this year's event spans July 20-24.

Comic-Con International did not respond to a request for comment from THR for this story.

The addition of D23 a week before SDCC next year brings into question the presence of big-name players like Marvel and Lucasfilm at the latter event; last year, Marvel skipped Comic-Con for the first time in four years, ostensibly due to a lack of announcements, only to debut Captain America: Civil War footage at the Disney event less than a month later, in addition to debuting Doctor Strange concept art and a video message from star Benedict Cumberbatch.

Similarly, while Lucasfilm did hold a Star Wars panel at Comic-Con, the only new footage premiered at the event was a behind-the-scenes reel, with a new trailer saved for the following month's D23 Expo.

If D23 predates Comic-Con next year, could Disney's properties save themselves the trek of heading to San Diego by revealing all a week earlier in Anaheim?

Story continues

Read More: 'Captain America: Civil War' Footage Sends D23 Into Frenzy
(Reuters) - Five-times champion Novak Djokovic overcame a first-set spill to beat unseeded Joao Sousa of Portugal 6-4 6-1 in the third round at the Miami Open in Florida on Sunday. The world number one fell on his left side while hitting a forehand on the baseline and his shot went into the net to allow Sousa to pull even at 4-4. But Djokovic was not injured and he dusted himself off and won eight out of the next nine games in a 77-minute match. The Serb is vying to match Andre Agassis tournament record of six wins in Key Biscayne. "That first set came down to a few points," said Djokovic after improving to 24-1 in 2016. "After that, it was quite a good performance. In the second set I felt much more comfortable. I was serving very well the entire day. "I'm glad that I managed to finish the match the way I did. Obviously, it gives me confidence for the next one." Djokovic landed 86 percent of first serves in the second set and dropped only three points on serve. He will meet Dominic Thiem in the next round after the Austrian defeated Japanese qualifier Yoshihito Nishioka 6-2 6-2. Argentine lucky loser Horacio Zeballos, who received a second chance when Roger Federer withdrew because of a stomach virus, continued to make the most of his good fortune. He rebounded to beat Spains Fernando Verdasco 1-6 6-4 7-6(4). (Reporting by Tim Wharnsby in Toronoto; Editing by Andrew Both)
By Seyhmus Cakan DIYARBAKIR, Turkey (Reuters) - Turkish security forces have killed more than 5,000 militants belonging to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) since its ceasefire with the Turkish state collapsed last July, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday. The figure would suggest a major blow to an organization that has waged its armed campaign for autonomy in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast region since 1984. Erdogan also told the Turkish armed forces' War Colleges in a speech that 355 state security forces had been killed in the period, according to the state-run Anadolu Agency. The southeast has been gripped by violence since July, with the security forces battling the PKK and its youth wing, known as the Patriotic Revolutionary Youth Movement (YDG-H), in densely populated urban centers. The fighting has marked the deadliest period in at least two decades of the insurgency. On Monday, a local elected official in Sarioren, in Sanliurfa province, was shot dead after suspected militants hijacked his car, security sources said. They were fleeing after detonating an explosive targeting a military vehicle. Three soldiers were hurt in the explosion, they said. The military said 25 PKK militants were killed in the towns of Nusaybin, Sirnak and Yuksekova in clashes at the weekend. On Sunday, two soldiers were killed and seven wounded in Nusaybin, which is on the Syrian border, when militants detonated explosives in a building that security forces were searching, security sources said. Five soldiers were wounded. In a separate incident in Nusaybin, which has been under a round-the-clock curfew since March 14, a soldier was killed by sniper fire, and a police officer was killed in a bomb attack. It was not possible to independently verify the figures Erdogan gave. Anadolu did not say whether it included Turkish Air Force strikes on PKK camps in northern Iraq. The military has in years past estimated the PKK's total fighting force at about 5,000, counting the guerrillas' ranks in rural Turkey and northern Iraq. Security sources said the YDG-H had suffered a larger share of the losses since July. Analysts have said the PKK continues to attract new fighters in large numbers. Turkey's opposition Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), which takes much of the Kurdish vote, says some 500 civilians have also been killed in the military operations which were stepped up in December. That figure has also not been independently verified. (Writing by Ayla Jean Yackley; Editing by David Dolan and Gareth Jones)
Whats Driving Freeport-McMoRan This Season?

(Continued from Prior Part)

Freeport-McMoRan

As discussed previously, positive macro developments and asset sales have been driving Freeport-McMoRan (FCX). Lets now explore how Freeport could play out in the coming months.

Commodity prices

Commodity prices have been strong after hitting multiyear lows in January. However, the upward momentum is more driven by a change in market sentiments towards risk assets than any real fundamental improvement. Most commodities including copper are still oversupplied. Copper and other commodities are following crude oil prices to higher price levels. Though historically copper and crude oil have not shared any real correlation, the two have been moving in tandem as can be seen in the graph above.

Copper has also been getting support from the buying activity of Chinas State Reserve Bureau (or SRB). However, we really dont know how much copper the SRB intends to stockpile this year. Copper inventories in the Shanghai Futures Exchange have already reached record highs. More copper inventory could put pressure on copper prices.

Energy prices

Energy prices have defied all laws of gravity and moved sharply higher over the last couple of months. Markets are likely factoring in production cuts by major producers. However, the OPEC and the non-OPEC block are yet to reach a meaningful agreement. Theres also the Iran factor as the country has not committed itself to any production cuts. Downward correction in energy prices could lead to a spiral effect on all commodities (DBC).

Miners including Freeport-McMoRan (FCX), Glencore (GLNCY), Teck Resources (TCK), and Turquoise Hill Resources (TRQ) are seeing upward momentum. However, there are several risks that investors need to look at. Brexit concerns, a possible Federal rate hike, and geopolitical issues are three of the key risks that investors face in 2016.

Though the stock prices have bounced back sharply, the metals and mining sector is not totally out of the woods. You can read Steel, Copper, or Aluminum: Whats Best for Your Portfolio? to find out about the relative opportunities in different industrial metals.

Browse this series on Market Realist:
Sonys PlayStation VR headset will work with the existing PlayStation 4, but the Japanese company is also developing a new PS4 thats supposed to deliver an even better experience. The more powerful PS4 version would cater to the needs of hardcore gamers who want higher-end gaming experiences, including virtual reality.

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Its not clear what the console would be named. For the time being, it appears that the 2013 and 2016 models would both be part of the PS4 family. According to The Wall Street Journal, Sony will keep selling the regular PS4 model once the hardware update is available. Sources familiar with Sonys plans also said that its likely that both consoles will support the same catalog of games, but the enhanced model would offer support for ultra-high-definition resolution graphics.

The new console would be announced before the October release of the PlayStation VR headset, though specific launch dates arent available yet.

Furthermore, its not known what kind of internal changes the new console will have, and its too early to talk about pricing updates for the PS4 line.

Just like Sony, Microsoft is also expected to launch similar hardware updates for its Xbox One.

We will see more hardware innovation in the console space than weve ever seen, Xbox head Phil Spencer said a few weeks ago, teasing that a better Xbox One is coming soon, well ahead of the expected new Xbox release cycle. Youll actually see us come out with new hardware capability during a generation allowing the same games to run backward and forward compatible.

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This article was originally published on BGR.com
In an open letter to voters supporting Donald Trump in the Republican presidential primary, the former communications director of Trumps now-defunct Super PAC said that the former reality television star not only never expected to be the Republican nominee, much less president, but never even wanted to be.

Writing for the website xojane.com, Stephanie Cegielski said that when she was brought aboard as communications director for the Make America Great Again PAC last summer, the instructions from Trump Tower were to make sure that Trump finished a respectable second in the GOP primary. It was made clear that Trump was running not as a serious contender, but as a protest candidate.

Related: Terrorist Toddlers? Guns at the Convention? How Absurd Can the GOP Get?

I don't think even Trump thought he would get this far, she wrote. And I dont even know that he wanted to, which is perhaps the scariest prospect of all.

He certainly was never prepared or equipped to go all the way to the White House, but his ego has now taken over the driver's seat, and nothing else matters. The Donald does not fail. The Donald does not have any weakness.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on this story.

Cegielski, now an adjunct professor at New York University and the owner of a communications firm, said that she was a true believer herself when she was recruited to join the Super PAC.

I was tired of the rhetoric in Washington. Negativity and stubbornness were at an all-time high, and the presidential prospects didn't look promising, she wrote. In 2015, I fell in love with the idea of the protest candidate who was not bought by corporations. A man who sat in a Manhattan high-rise he had built, making waves as a straight talker with a business background, full of successes and failures, who wanted America to return to greatness. I was sold.

Related: Why a Trump Candidacy Threatens the GOP Majority in Congress

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But as time went on, she said, she came to realize that Trumps entry into the race had always been about raising his own profile, not about actually winning a presidential nomination.

Trump never intended to be the candidate. But his pride is too out of control to stop him now, she wrote.

He doesn't want the White House. He just wants to be able to say that he could have run the White House. Hes achieved that already and then some. If there is any question, take it from someone who was recruited to help the candidate succeed, and initially very much wanted him to do so.

Cegielski, an attorney and the former vice president of public relations for the Public Relations Society of America, could be dismissed as a disgruntled former employee. The Trump campaign shut down the PAC that she worked for in October.

(Interestingly, Cegielski describes the move to shut the Super PAC as an internal decision made in order to position him as the quintessential non-politician. Its unclear, but this at least suggests a degree of coordination between the campaign and the Super PAC, which would violate election laws.)

Related: For Now, Democrats Savor a Clinton-Trump Matchup This Fall

However, Cegielski said that she supported the decision to shut down the PAC and continued to support Trump with great passion afterward. It was only slowly, as she began to look at Trump as a member of the voting public rather than a communications person charged with protecting his positions, that she started to feel disillusioned.

In the end, she said, she decided that Trump is not an authentic voice for disaffected Americans alienated from Washington and left behind by the global economy.

Speaking to current Trump supporters, she wrote, He is not that voice. He is not your voice. He is only Trump's voice.

Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
By Jim Finkle (Reuters) - The FBI is asking businesses and software security experts for emergency assistance in its investigation into a pernicious new type of "ransomware" virus used by hackers for extortion. "We need your help!" the Federal Bureau of Investigation said in a confidential "Flash" advisory that was dated March 25 and obtained by Reuters over the weekend. Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a victim's data so they cannot gain access to it on their computers, then offers to unlock the system in exchange for payment. Friday's FBI alert was focused on ransomware known as MSIL/Samas.A that the agency said seeks to encrypt data on entire networks, an alarming change because typically, ransomware has sought to encrypt data one computer at a time. The plea asked recipients to immediately contact the FBI's CYWATCH cyber center if they find evidence that they have been attacked or have other information that might help in its investigation. It is the latest in a series of FBI advisories and warnings from security researchers about new ransomware tools and techniques. "This is basically becoming a national cyber emergency," said Ben Johnson, co-founder of Carbon Black, a cyber security firm that on Friday uncovered another type of ransomware that seeks to attack PCs through infected Microsoft Word documents. The FBI first reported on MSIL/Samas.A in a Feb. 18 alert that lacked the urgency of Friday's warning. The February message contained some technicals details but did not call for help. It said that MSIL/Samas.A targets servers running out-of-date versions of a type of business software known as JBOSS. In its latest report, the FBI said that investigators have since found that hackers are using a software tool dubbed JexBoss to automate discovery of vulnerable JBOSS systems and launch attacks, allowing them to remotely install ransomware on computers across the network. The FBI provided a list of technical indicators to help companies determine if they were victims of such an attack. "The FBI is distributing these indicators to enable network defense activities and reduce the risk of similar attacks in the future," the advisory said. FBI representatives did not respond to requests for comment on the confidential warning. The sectors hardest hit by ransomware include industries that rely on computer access for performing critical functions, such as healthcare and law enforcement. Publicly reported attacks in which hospitals and police have paid ransoms, then recovered data, has encouraged attackers to further target those groups, cyber security experts said. (Reporting by Jim Finkle; editing by Grant McCool)
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Fighting between Islamic State and the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front spread from Syria into Lebanon's northern Bekaa Valley region on Monday, a security source and the state news agency said. Eighteen Nusra Front members were killed and six were taken prisoner during the clashes, and 14 Islamic State members were also killed, the security source said. The fighting began on Sunday near the Syrian town of Jrajeer in the Qalamoun mountains near the Syrian-Lebanese border, before spreading toward the Lebanese towns of Ras Baalbek and Arsal, the source said. Lebanon's National News Agency reported that Nusra Front had fought on Sunday to regain some positions it lost to Islamic State. In the fighting it said 10 Nusra Front fighters and eight Islamic State militants had died. The border is not clearly demarcated in the mountainous region and fighting often spills over into Lebanon. Nusra Front, loyal to the successors of Osama bin Laden, and Islamic State are the two most powerful forces fighting government forces in Syria. The groups have also fought each other since a split in 2013 prompted largely by a power struggle between leaders. Nusra Front and Islamic State fighters have staged regular incursions into Arsal from the barren hills just outside the town. They overran the town briefly in 2014 before withdrawing to the hills after clashes with the army. However, security sources say the Nusra Front and Islamic State groups continue to have a strong presence in the town, where thousands of Syrian refugees live in dire conditions. (Reporting by Lisa Barrington; Editing by Gareth Jones)
After announcing that president of production Claudia Lewis will exit in May, Fox Searchlight has promoted Matthew Greenfield and David Greenbaum to co-heads of production.

They will be responsible for Fox Searchlight's annual slate of films as well as all aspects of production for the company including development, packaging, budgeting, casting and production.

"David and Matthew are the best production executives currently working in independent film, Fox Searchlight Pictures presidents Steve Gilula and Nancy Utley said Monday in a joint statement. "Their ability to identify excellence, foster creativity and nurture filmmaker relationships, skills honed as they came up the ranks under former production head Claudia Lewis, will ensure the continued growth and scope of our slate. We are thrilled to be promoting them into these leadership roles."

Greenfield has worked as a senior executive at Fox Searchlight for nine years, shepherding such titles as The Descendants and Enough Said, and is currently overseeing Roger Michells My Cousin Rachel, starring Rachel Weisz and Sam Claflin. Before joining Searchlight in 2006, Greenfield worked in indie film as a producer on titles including The Good Girl, Chuck & Buck and Star Maps.

Greenbaum, who joined Searchlight in 2010, has been a senior executive with the company for six years, overseeing Wild and Hitchcock, and is currently supervising director Craig Johnsons Wilson starring Woody Harrelson; Gifted, starring Chris Evans, Octavia Spencer and Jenny Slate for director Marc Webb; Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris The Battle of the Sexes starring Emma Stone and Steve Carell; and Guillermo Del Toros recently announced film starring Sally Hawkins. He previously worked at Miramax Films in New York and London.

Read More: Fox Searchlight's Claudia Lewis Exiting Post as President of Production
Paris (AFP) - A French judge has extended the detention of the main suspect in what officials said was a foiled terror attack, a judicial source said Monday, as European countries remained on high alert following last week's carnage in Brussels.

Reda Kriket, who is linked to the suspected ringleader of the Paris attacks, was arrested on Thursday in a suburb of the French capital in a raid in which police also found several assault rifles and explosives.

A specialist judge authorised the French authorities to hold Kriket beyond the usual four days without charge, a move allowed if there is an imminent risk of attack.

Kriket, a 34-year-old French national, was found guilty in absentia in Brussels in July of being part of a network recruiting jihadists to Syria and sentenced to 10 years in jail.

Also convicted in absentia in the same trial was Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the suspected ringleader of the November 13 attacks in Paris that left 130 people dead.

Investigations showed Kriket played a key role in financing the jihadist network with money from robberies and stolen goods.

Among those who went to Syria through the network were Abaaoud and another Paris attacker, Chakib Akrouh.

Separately, Dutch police on Sunday arrested a French national identified only as 32-year-old Anis B. who is thought to have been planning the attack in France in the name of the Islamic State group along with Kriket.

Dutch prosecutors said police had found ammunition in a search of the man's home in the port city of Rotterdam.

"During the search, phones, SIM cards, hard drives, cash, ammunition and drugs were seized," a spokesman for the Dutch prosecutor's office, Wim de Bruin, told AFP.

No explosives were found.

The suspect, who was arrested at the request of French authorities, is expected to be extradited to France shortly.

Deepening the cross-border connections between the suspected jihadist cells, Belgian police at the weekend also charged two men with involvement in a terrorist group over the foiled French plot linked to Kriket.

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One of them was named as Abderamane A., whom police shot in the leg after a stand-off at a tram-stop Friday in the Schaerbeek district of Brussels.

French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve last week said the plot to stage an attack on France had been at "an advanced stage", without giving further details.

European security services are under growing pressure to work together tackle the jihadist threat after 35 people were killed in last Tuesday's airport and metro attacks in Brussels.

The attack was claimed by the Islamic State group and close links have been established between the Brussels attackers and those involved in the Paris terror assaults.
PARIS (Reuters) - French government representatives on the board of carmaker PSA Peugeot Citroen <PEUP.PA> are opposed to the sharp increase in remuneration of its chairman, Carlos Tavares, Les Echos reported on its website on Monday.

Tavares saw his total remuneration reach 5.24 million euros ($5.9 mln) for 2015, including his fixed and variable salary and long-term incentives, up from 2.75 million euros in 2014, according to the company's annual report.

The French government, which owns 14 percent of the carmaker, has recommended that companies in which it holds a minority stake should cut the leader's remuneration by 30 percent, Les Echos reported.

PSA returned to profitability in 2015 after four years of losses and achieved its performance targets ahead of time.

The car manufacturer and the French finance ministry declined to comment on the Les Echos report, which did not cite sources.

PSA is due to present a new strategic plan on April 5.

($1 = 0.8929 euros)

(Reporting by Cyril Altmeyer, Yann Le Guernigou and Astrid Wendlandt; Editing by Susan Fenton)
Georgia Governor Nathan Deal said he plans to veto the controversial religious liberty bill which critics contend is anti-gay legislation.

Gov. Deal said the bill doesnt reflect "the character of our state and the character of our people," in prepared remarks he gave on Monday. "Georgia is a welcoming state. It is full of loving, kind and generous people," he said.

Deal said stage legislators should leave freedom of speech and freedom of religion to the U.S. Constitution.

Their efforts to purge this bill of any possibility that it would allow or encourage discrimination illustrates how difficult it is to legislate something that is best left to the broad protections of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, said the governor.

Deal said he did not have problems with the "Pastor Protection Act" that said clergy of any faith would not be forced to perform religious ceremonies or acts contrary to their faith. However, he said he had problems with the other versions of the bill which "contained language that could give rise to state-sanctioned discrimination."

HB 757 would have allowed religious organizations to deny services to those who violate their "sincerely held religious belief." The bill, entitled the Free Exercise Protection Act, received criticism from major Hollywood studios, who said it allowed for discrimination against LGBTQ people.

Read More: Georgia's Filmmakers Fear Consequences of Anti-Gay Bill Becoming Law

"I do not think we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia, of which I and my family have been a part of for all of our lives," said Deal. He said that even though the discrimination "may be unintentional" it is "too great a risk to take."

He said that the bill has generated more "intense" feelings than most legislation.

"Some of those in the religious community who support this bill have resorted to insults that question my moral convictions and my character," said Deal. "Some within the business community who oppose this bill have resorted to threats of withdrawing jobs from our state. I do not respond well to insults or threats. The people of Georgia deserve a leader who will made sound judgments based on solid reasons that are not inflamed by emotion."

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WATCH: Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal announces he will veto "anti-LGBT" bill https://t.co/rD6ZPSgx3C https://t.co/xrEhDVJ9hb

Good Morning America (@GMA) March 28, 2016

Georgia offers up to 30 percent tax incentives for TV and film productions and its entertainment industry has been growing steadily. From July 1, 2014 to June 20, 2015 there were 248 feature film and television productions in the state, generating an economic impact of $6 billion.

Deal, who is regarded as a pro-business governor, faced increasing pressure from the Hollywood community and major corporations who opposed the bill.

Disney, Netflix, The Weinstein Company threatened to boycott Georgia if the bill was signed and Viacom, Time Warner, Fox, Sony, MGM, CBS, Comcast/NBC Universal and many other studios spoke out against the bill. The National Football League said the measure threatened to affect Atlanta's bid for the Super Bowl. LGBTQ rights groups like the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD also decried the bill as anti-gay legislation.

On Sunday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution published the contents of an email where Deal's chief-of-staff revealed Georgia had been "dropped from contention from two pending economic projects" prior to a decision being made on the bill. The projects cited HB 757 as the reason they were removing the state from consideration.

Read More: Hollywood Speaks Out Against Georgia's Anti-Gay Bill

After Deal announced his plans to veto the measure, he received praise from opponents of the bill.

House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams released a statement about Deal's decision. "I applaud Governor Deal for vetoing this flawed and dangerous legislation," said Abrams. "H.B. 757 would have enshrined discrimination in our state's laws, to devastating effect on families and businesses in Georgia. Restricting the civil rights of any community does not reflect our values as Georgians, and I am encouraged that this bill will not become law."

The Human Rights Campaign, which had called on Hollywood to act against the legislation, also praised the pledged veto.

Our message to Governor Nathan Deal was loud and clear: this deplorable legislation was bad for his constituents, bad for business, and bad for Georgias future, said HRC president Chad Griffin. Today, Governor Deal heard the voices of Georgians, civil rights organizations, as well as the many leaders in the entertainment industry and private sector who condemned this attack on the fundamental rights of LGBT people, and he has set an example for other elected officials to follow. Discrimination and intolerance have no place in the United States of America, and we hope North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory and the North Carolina General Assembly are paying close attention to what has transpired in Georgia. They must undo their disgraceful attack on LGBT people in the states upcoming legislative session.

"I am grateful to Governor Deal, for reaffirming &lsquoGeorgia is a welcoming state and his decision veto HB 757," Georgia state representative Keisha Waites told THR. "I believe Gov. Deal has demonstrated tremendous leadership and made the right decision for our time and history will reflect that. My colleagues and I supported the original version of HB 757 which simply made clear no pastor could be forced to perform a same-sex wedding ceremony. Therefore, I believed the original bill's language was a thoughtful balance that provided protections for people of faith while not promoting discrimination. That is why my colleagues and I have insisted throughout this entire debate that any measure we passed must include clear anti-discriminatory language. I do not believe, that the final version of HB 757 passed met that test."
BERLIN (Reuters) - German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere said he is planning a new law that will require refugees to learn German and integrate into society, or else lose their permanent right of residence. The initiative comes after voters punished Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives in regional elections earlier this month, giving a thumbs-down to her open-door refugee policy and turning in droves to the anti-immigrant party Alternative for Germany (AfD). Around 1 million migrants arrived in Germany last year - many fleeing conflict and economic hardship in the Middle East and Africa - and de Maiziere said around 100,000 more had arrived so far this year. Germany expected that in return for language lessons, social benefits and housing, the new arrivals made an effort to integrate, he told ARD television. "For those who refuse to learn German, for those who refuse to allow their relatives to integrate - for instance women or girls - for those who reject job offers: for them, there cannot be an unlimited settlement permit after three years," he said. De Maiziere, who belongs to Merkel's conservatives party, added that he wanted "a link between successful integration and the permission for how long one is allowed to stay in Germany." Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel welcomed the draft law, which is planned for May. "We must not only support integration but demand it," Gabriel told mass-selling daily Bild. Gabriel's Social Democrats, the junior partner in Germany's ruling coalition with Merkel's conservatives, also suffered losses in this month's elections in three German states. (Writing by Paul Carrel; Editing by Susan Fenton)
Athens (AFP) - Greece said Monday it would make use of loudspeakers at a migrants' camp on the Macedonia frontier to dispel "irresponsible rumours" that the border is about to reopen.

"We are trying to step up efforts to address refugees and migrants in their own language and without an intermediary," said Giorgos Kyritsis, spokesman for the government's coordination panel on the migration.

Additional interpreters would be sent to the camp and a loudspeaker system -- currently operated by the UN refugee agency -- would be employed to make official announcements, he said.

On Sunday, several hundred migrants, including people in wheelchairs or carrying babies, dashed for the border following rumours it would be opened.

Greek police and other migrants helped to calm the situation.

The commotion appeared to be triggered by a rumour that journalists and Red Cross officials would help migrants force their way across the fence, a young Syrian refugee told the Athens News Agency (ANA).

The rush came two weeks after hundreds marched from Idomeni towards the Macedonian border, even crossing a surging river to do so, before they were stopped by Macedonian troops.

Kyritsis, interviewed on the News247 website, condemned "irresponsible rumours and disinformation" that "spread like wildfire... among people who are under pressure and living in very difficult conditions".

More than 50,000 migrants are stranded in Greece after other European countries sealed off the so-called Balkan trail. Many are Syrians fleeing war. Over 11,000 of them are currently camped around Idomeni.

The trail leads from Greece -- the landing point for hundreds of thousands of people coming from Turkey -- to northern Europe where many have relatives or seek a better future.

The human influx has eased since an agreement between European Union (EU) and Turkey went into effect on March 20 for returning any migrants who reach Greece.

A total of 1,331 have arrived since March 21, the day after the accord took effect, according to official figures.
Athens (AFP) - Deputy Sports Minister Stavros Kontonis said Monday he will accept a delegation from FIFA and UEFA on Wednesday to discuss his decision to indefinitely postpone the Greek Cup competition, but insists his actions were justified.

"We will battle to confirm our decision. It was founded on legal terms and is a measure which solves the serious problem of public order," Kontonis told a press conference.

Greek media reported that FIFA and UEFA officials will try to convince Kontonis to withdraw his decision or the country's teams may face disqualification from European and international competitions.

"The government is here. We will come into conflict with not only those with interests, but all those who think they can blackmail or intimidate the government. There is no other road for us except the courts. We will support our decisions in the courts of the country," Kontonis said.

He said the government is doing "whatever it can" to stop the plague of violence at sporting events and added that never before have so many hooligans been taken to court for their actions.

Earlier this month Kontonis postponed the Greek Cup indefinitely for the first time ever, after the competition had reached the semi-final stage, because of violence at the PAOK-Olympiakos match.

Olympiakos were ahead 2-1 in the 89th minute when dozens of hooligans invaded the pitch after referee Andreas Pappas did not award the home team a penalty.

Riot-trained police turned back the fans but not before causing extensive damage to the Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki.

The Greek federation fined PAOK 100,000 euros ($111,620), were given a five-point Super League deduction and ordered to play three matches behind closed doors.

Last year Kontonis suspended Super League matches following violence between rival sets of supporters.
Guatemala City (AFP) - Guatemala's former president Otto Perez will find out at a later date if he is going to trial on corruption charges after a judge suspended a decision that was to be handed down on Monday.

The judge, Miguel Angel Galvez, said a defense motion had to be resolved before it could be announced whether a trial would take place.

Perez and former vice president Roxana Baldetti both lost their jobs last year over allegations that they were part of a ring of officials who took bribes to allow companies to import goods without paying import taxes.

Both remain in custody pending the trial decision and were in court on Monday.

Perez reiterated his innocence in the allegations, which were made public by a UN-backed body called the International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG).

Perez accused the CICIG of being a "tool" of the United States, which he claimed brought about his downfall.

Baldetti arrived an hour late because of what her lawyers said were health problems. The judge ordered she undergo a medical examination.

Guatemala's new president, Jimmy Morales, a former television comedian, won office in October elections on promises of cracking down on corruption.
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Two people were shot dead and others injured on Monday in a Palestinian refugee camp in south Lebanon after a dispute between rival political groups triggered bursts of gunfire, Reuters witnesses said. Abdallah Qablawi, a member of the mainstream Palestinian faction Fatah, was shot by Omar al-Nattur, who belongs to a hardline Islamist group. A relative of al-Nattur was then shot dead in revenge, the Reuters witnesses and Lebanon's National News Agency said. At least two people were injured in the dispute and the subsequent gunfire, one witness said. Shops closed their doors and people fled the camp as tensions between the rival groups built up. Ain al-Hilweh camp, near the southern Lebanese coastal city of Sidon, has regularly seen factional disputes spiral into deadly violence. Lebanon's Palestinian camps mainly fall outside the jurisdiction of the Lebanese security services. (Reporting by Lisa Barrington; Editing by Gareth Jones)
By Richard Cowan and Susan Cornwell

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A man walked into the underground U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on Monday and was shot and wounded by police after he pointed what appeared to be a weapon at officers, police said.

The suspect and a female bystander, who suffered wounds, were taken to the hospital, Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said at a news conference.

No police officers were injured, Verderosa said. He said it was unclear how many officers fired shots. A weapon was recovered on the scene and the suspect's vehicle was found on Capitol grounds, he said.

"During routine administrative screening, the individual drew what appeared to be a weapon and pointed it at officers," the police chief said.

Verderosa said the man was known to Capitol Police.

"Based on initial investigation, we believe this is an act of a single person who has frequented the Capitol grounds before. There is no reason to believe this is anything more than a criminal act," Verderosa said.

Law enforcement officials have not conclusively verified the suspect's identity but believe he is Larry Dawson, 66, from Tennessee, the Washington Post reported.

Police arrested Dawson in October after they said he interrupted a House of Representatives session, shouting he was a "Prophet of God," the Post reported. A judge ordered him to stay away from the Capitol grounds, the newspaper said.

Police did not identify the suspect, who they said acted alone.

The suspect was undergoing surgery, but his condition was unknown, and no charges have been filed "at this point," Verderosa said.

A U.S. government official said no evidence had materialized of a connection to terrorism.

On a day when the Senate and House of Representatives were not working and few lawmakers were in Washington, the Capitol building was briefly locked down, but then reopened for official business. The Capitol Visitor Center is used chiefly by tourists.

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The U.S. Secret Service temporarily cleared tourists from an area around the White House.

At about the same time as the Capitol shooting, a woman was arrested at the White House Easter egg roll because she tried to move a temporary security barrier, the Secret Service said. There was no relation between the Capitol incident and the White House arrest, a Secret Service official said.

The District of Columbia Police Department, a separate force from the U.S. Capitol police, called the shooting an isolated incident and said there was no threat to the public.

More than 2 million people a year go through the Capitol Visitor Center, Verderosa said. He said it would be open for business as usual on Tuesday.

(Additonal reporting by Mark Hosenball, Susan Cornwell, Roberta Rampton and Susan Heavey; Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Grant McCool)
By Kathryn Doyle (Reuters Health) - Giving birth outside of a hospital has become more common in the U.S., especially for white women, with almost 60,000 out-of-hospital births in 2014, according to a new study. I think it speaks to some womens growing discomfort with the standard hospital-based system of childbirth in the U.S, said lead author Marian F. MacDorman of the Maryland Population Research Center at the University of Maryland in College Park. Currently, it seems difficult for women wanting a natural birth to be assured of having that experience in the hospital, where one out of every three U.S. births are delivered by cesarean section, and where induction rates and other interventions are very common, MacDorman told Reuters Health by email. She and her coauthor Eugene Declercq used data from 47 states and the District of Columbia, from 2004 to 2014, to compare in hospital and out-of-hospital births. During that period, out-of-hospital births rose from less than 1 percent to 1.5 percent of U.S. births. Of the nearly 60,000 out-of-hospital births in 2014, 38,000 were home births and 18,000 took place at birth centers. Almost 90 percent of the home births were planned. That year, one in every 44 births to a non-Hispanic white woman in the U.S. took place outside a hospital. Only 13 percent of mothers who gave birth out-of-hospital were obese, compared to 25 percent of those in hospital. Mother who gave birth out-of-hospital were also less likely to smoke and more likely to have graduated from college. Two-thirds of planned home births were self-paid, that is, the mother paid out of pocket for pregnancy and delivery care, compared to less than half of those in birth centers and less than five percent of those in hospitals, as reported in the journal Birth. Home birth can be very safe if the healthcare system at large supports it and integrates it with other options, MacDorman said. The finding that more women are able to choose to have the type of birth experience that they want to have seems positive to me, she said. I think it is of concern that so many doctors seem to be so opposed to out-of-hospital birth that they wont examine ways to make the home to hospital transfer a smoother and safer process. The current study did not include data on mortality. According to MacDorman, something goes seriously wrong only very rarely, in less than one percent of births in or out of the hospital. Most high quality international studies have found that the risk of stillbirth and early infant death is not higher for out-of-hospital than for hospital births, she said. Overall the numbers are still very small and it will be interesting to see where it goes in the next few years but I believe it will never be a large percentage of women who opt for out-of-hospital birth, said Ruth E. Zielinski, a midwife at the University of Michigan School of Nursing who was not part of the new study. Out-of-hospital births tend to involve less intervention, like cesarean section, and have higher patient satisfaction, MacDorman said. Midwives that attend out-of-hospital births generally screen clients, so that only low-risk women attempt an out-of-hospital birth. High-risk women should give birth in a hospital, MacDorman said. Other factors that improve patient safety are having an experienced and properly trained midwife who has an existing relationship with an obstetrician or hospital in case a patient develops complications, MacDorman said. Certified professional midwives who do many out-of-hospital births are only licensed in about half of U.S. states, she said. Another barrier to giving birth at home may be insurance coverage, as most women with planned home births had to pay out of pocket for the costs of their pregnancy and delivery care, she said. If both private insurance companies and Medicaid would cover the costs of pregnancy and delivery care for out-of-hospital births, this could substantially improve access to this birthing option, now clearly of interest to an increasing number of women, MacDorman said. SOURCE: http://bit.ly/1pFFkOx Birth, online March 16, 2016.
Washington (AFP) - A global rights group warned Monday that some of the most heinous crimes committed by military personnel against civilians during Colombia's armed conflict could go unpunished under an agreement between the government and FARC guerrillas.

Among the most controversial crimes involving Colombian military personnel are so-called "false positives" -- civilians murdered by the army and reported as guerrillas killed in combat in order to earn promotions for those involved.

However, a peace deal outlined in December between Colombia's government and its main rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), will not punish those responsible for such atrocities, Human Rights Watch said.

"The web of loopholes and ambiguities in the agreement could guarantee that many of those responsible for false-positive killings, ranging from low-ranking soldiers to generals, will escape justice," HRW's Americas division director, Jose Miguel Vivanco, said in a statement.

The agreement, the product of more than three years of negotiations, sets out a special system for trying those accused of atrocities on both sides in the war.

Those who admit to their crimes will be given lighter sentences under the special judicial regime.

Under the agreement, military commanders could argue that they had no knowledge or control over the crimes attributed to their troops, a provision that HRW called "inconsistent with international law."

The rights group asked that such cases be resolved in ordinary courts.

According to HRW, between 2002 and 2008, army brigades executed some 3,000 civilians.

The South American country remains in the grips of a civil war that has killed more than 200,000 people since the FARC was founded in 1964.
Hugh Jackman and his children were swimming at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Saturday when a riptide came through. The actor and nearby swimmers helped his son Oscar and daughter Ava escape the strong currents.

Jackman was caught by camera helping his family, as well as beckoning to other swimmers to come out of the water.

Some news outlets reported that Jackman rescued swimmer Peter Adam, but Adam clarified that he was actually helping the actor out with Ava. "His daughter was struggling to get on to the sandbar so I reached down, grabbed her arm and put my arm up to Hugh to make a chain to pull us up on the sandbar," Adam told Australia's 9News. "That's what you do with any family out there."

Former National Rugby League player Daniel Conn was also in the water with Jackman and chatted with him before the riptide began causing problems.

Read More: Hugh Jackman's Final 'Wolverine' Movie Targets R Rating

"I think he was under a bit of pressure with the two kids at once but he was pretty cool, calm and collected, as Hugh always is, I suppose," said Conn, calling Jackman a "superdad, superhero and super bloke." Conn said he helped Jackman with Oscar but when Oscar was pulled out again Jackman went out to get him and helped others around the beach as well. Lifeguards swam in and assisted the family in getting back to safety.

North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club wrote about the incidents on Instagram, revealing more than 40 rescues occurred that day. The beach had to be closed due to dangerous conditions, multiple rescues happening all at once and limited resources," said the organization. "@thehughjackman was also spotted assisting with rescues! Thanks Hugh.

WELL DONE to Patrol 13 captained by Rosie Taliano & Tom Bunting this afternoon who completed 43 rescues in total with only a limited 12 patrolling members rostered on. There were also 3 rescues in the morning completed by Patrol 10. A big THANK YOU to Waverley Duty Officers, @brontesurfclub, @bondisblsc, @bondilifeguards and @surfrescue30 for your extra assistance. The beach had to be closed due to dangerous conditions, multiple rescues happening all at once and limited resources. @thehughjackman was also spotted assisting with rescues! Thanks Hugh #mysurflife #northbondislsc #northbondi #surflifesaving #rescues #bondibeach #bondi #beach #easter #saturday #bondislsc #bronteslsc #bronte #irb #surfrescue30 #hughjackman

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A photo posted by North Bondi SLSC (Est. 1906) (@northbondislsc) on Mar 26, 2016 at 12:37am PDT

Hugh and Oscar are completely fine, a rep for Jackman said in a statement to ABC News. It looks more dramatic than it was.
By Sanjeev Miglani NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads to a European Union summit this week, seeking to patch up a four-year diplomatic feud with Italy that has grown toxic enough to threaten New Delhi's ambitions to become a bigger global player. India hopes the Brussels summit will bring a thaw in ties with Italy, and keep it from blocking the Asian nation's membership of a key global group on missile technology, after Rome single-handedly scuppered India's bid to join last year. "We have always wanted a vibrant, robust partnership with Italy," said Indian foreign ministry official Nandini Singla. "We see Italy as a key EU partner." The row between the two nations stems from India's arrest of two Italian Marines to stand trial for the killing of two fishermen off the southern Indian coast in 2012, a crime Italy said was beyond the jurisdiction of Indian courts. One of the men has been allowed to return home for medical treatment, while the other is confined to the Italian embassy. Italy has sought international arbitration of the case, with a United Nations tribunal set to hold hearings this week. An Italian government source said Italy seeks the return of the second Marine held at its New Delhi embassy, since the trial process in India had effectively ended after both parties agreed to international arbitration. "Theres no reason for him to stay in India for the arbitration. We have asked that he be allowed to follow the proceedings from his own country," said the source, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the case. India has joined the arbitration process and would respect the tribunal's decision, said Singla, who is the joint secretary for Western Europe at the Indian foreign ministry. "This is not really a bilateral issue anymore, it has been taken out of the bilateral ambit and to an international tribunal." She did not say how India would respond to the Italian request, however. The sailors were part of a military team protecting an Italian oil tanker when, they say, they mistook a fishing boat for a pirate vessel and fired warning shots. Two fishermen died. The EU plans to raise the issue of the Marines with Modi, according to an internal EU council note seen by Reuters, which said that such cases can influence the global fight on piracy. For India, membership of the Missile Technology Control Regime, along with three other groups controlling the transfer of nuclear and other armaments is part of a diplomatic campaign to become a global player. The MTCR is due to meet in October, when New Delhi will renew its bid for membership. "We are interested in membership of all four regimes, we are engaged in dialogue with the groups as well as individual members," said Amandeep Singh Gill, head of the international security division of the Indian foreign ministry. (Additional reporting by Steve Scherer in ROME and Francesco Guarascio in BRUSSELS; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel reassigned its pick for ambassador to Brazil to a U.S. posting on Monday, backing off in a spat with Brasilia over the nominee's links to Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. Brazil's left-leaning government, which has supported Palestinian statehood in recent years, had balked at accepting the appointment as envoy in August of former settler leader Dani Dayan. The previous Israeli ambassador stepped down in December. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had initially vowed to stand firm on Argentine-born Dayan's nomination - even at the cost of downgrading relations with Brazil - lest his rejection undermine the settlements, which most world powers deem illegal. But Netanyahu said in a brief statement on Monday that Dayan would instead serve as consul-general in New York, a post that focuses Israeli outreach to American Jews and business sectors. "I don't think that we folded. There was no choice," Dayan told Israel's Army Radio when asked about the new appointment. "Those that did not want us in Brasilia, ended up getting us in New York, the capital of the world." Dayan previously argued that should Brazil succeed in excluding him, it could create a precedent barring settlers from representing Israel abroad. Israel has a considerable role in providing avionics technology for Brazil's aerospace and defense industry. On March 17, Israel's Foreign Ministry said it was seeking a new pick for ambassador for Brasilia, replacing Dayan. But it quickly withdrew the statement, saying it was issued in error. (Writing by Dan Williams; Editing by Alison Williams)
By Nobuhiro Kubo and Tim Kelly YONAGUNI, Japan (Reuters) - Japan on Monday switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of islands disputed by Japan and China, drawing an angry response from Beijing. The new Self Defence Force base on the island of Yonaguni is at the western extreme of a string of Japanese islands in the East China Sea, 150 km (90 miles) south of the disputed islands known as the Senkaku islands in Japan and the Diaoyu in China. China has raised concerns with its neighbors and in the West with its assertive claim to most of the South China Sea where the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims. Japan has long been mired in a territorial dispute with China over the East China Sea islands. "Until yesterday, there was no coastal observation unit west of the main Okinawa island. It was a vacuum we needed to fill," said Daigo Shiomitsu, a Ground Self Defence Force lieutenant colonel who commands the new base on Yonaguni. "It means we can keep watch on territory surrounding Japan and respond to all situations." Shiomitsu on Monday attended a ceremony at the base with 160 military personnel and around 50 dignitaries. Construction of some buildings, which feature white walls and traditional Okinawan red-tiled roofs, is still unfinished. The 30-sq-km (11-sq-mile) island is home to 1,500 people, who mostly raise cattle and grow sugar cane. The Self Defence Force contingent and family members will increase the population by a fifth. "This radar station is going to irritate China," said Nozomu Yoshitomi, a professor at Nihon University and a retired major general in the Self Defence Force. In addition to being a listening post, the facility could be used a base for military operations in the region, he added. China's defense ministry, in a statement sent to Reuters about the radar station, said the international community needed to be on high alert to Japan's military expansion. "The Diaoyu Islands are China's inherent territory. We are resolutely opposed to any provocative behavior by Japan aimed at Chinese territory," it said. "The activities of Chinese ships and aircraft in the relevant waters and airspace are completely appropriate and legal." The listening post fits into a wider military build-up along the island chain, which stretches 1,400 km (870 miles) from the Japanese mainland. Policy makers last year told Reuters it was part of a strategy to keep China at bay in the Western Pacific as Beijing gains control of the South China Sea. Toshi Yoshihara, a U.S. Naval War College professor, said Yonaguni sits next to two potential flashpoints in Asia - Taiwan and the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. "A network of overlapping radar sites along the island chain would boost Japan's ability to monitor the East China Sea," he added. Yonaguni is only around 100 km (62 miles) east of Taiwan, near the edge of a controversial air defense identification zone set up by China in 2013. Over the next five years, Japan will increase its Self Defence Force in the East China Sea by about a fifth to almost 10,000 personnel, including missile batteries that will help Japan draw a defensive curtain along the island chain. Chinese ships sailing from their eastern seaboard must pass through this barrier to reach the Western Pacific, access to which Beijing needs both as a supply line to the rest of the world's oceans and for naval power projection. (Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Editing by Nick Macfie)
TOKYO (Reuters) - ANA Holdings <9202.T>, Japan's biggest airline, said on Monday it would continue its suspension of flights from Tokyo to Brussels until at least April 10 after suicide bombers blew themselves up in the airport departure hall. Brussels Airport said on Saturday that it would not reopen for passenger flights before Tuesday. "In view of the condition of the airport and the general situation we have decided to extend the cancellation of flights," ANA said in a statement. "We will decide on operations from April 11 after reviewing the situation," it added. ANA's canceled flights up to April 10 will total 39, affecting 4,500 travelers. (Reporting by Tim Kelly; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
GUATEMALA CITY (Reuters) - At least 19 people were killed in Guatemala after the bus they were traveling in plunged down a 200-meter (660 feet) ravine in the west of the country on Monday, emergency services said. Carlos Santizo, a spokesman for local firefighters, said the bus was going too fast when it went off the edge of the road near the town of Nahuala, some 160 km (99 miles) west of Guatemala City. Nearly all those confirmed dead in the crash were adults, including one pregnant woman, Santizo told local radio. There was one minor among the dead, he said. Between 20 and 25 people were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, said hospital spokesman Guillermo Ordonez. (Reporting by Sofia Menchu; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
How long is too long when it comes to depositions? The answer depends on where the case is being heard and which side youre on.

While federal courts limit depositions to seven hours, most states have no limits on the books. Only a few have enacted restrictions, ranging from three hours in Illinois to 20 in New Hampshire.

A 2015 paper authored by two defense lawyers, The Discovery Deposition Conundrum, breaks down which states have limits and which dont. At every plaintiff deposition, it notes, there is a natural tension created by the right of defendants to understand thoroughly the nature and factual support for the claims against them as well as facts that support their defenses and concern about the health of an ill and often elderly plaintiff.

In asbestos cases, depositions take on added importance due to the often-frail health of plaintiffs suffering from diseases such as mesothelioma.

Even in states with limits, theres variation in how the rules are enforced.

This story is part of Unequal Risk. Workers in America face risks from toxic exposures that would be considered unacceptable outside the job. Click here to read more stories in this series.

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California generally follows the federal seven-hour limit except in cases considered complex, such as asbestos lawsuits. Some courts routinely allow depositions in these cases to exceed 20 hours.

Depositions in Illinois are formally capped at three hours, though informally questioning can go on longer if the plaintiff is healthy enough to answer, said Perry Browder, president of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association.

Browder chalked up the uniquely long and arduous depositions seen in California to both legal practice and culture. In Illinois, Browder said, a lead defense lawyer typically deposes a plaintiff for about 2  hours, after which other defense counsel are allotted 15 minutes apiece for questioning.

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People are efficient, Browder said. You get to the point.

Most states without formal limits, like New York, have other mechanisms that can help rein in the discovery process, including the length of depositions.

Charles Ferguson, a plaintiff's lawyer in Manhattan, said a court-appointed special master who oversees asbestos discovery helps discovery go more smoothly. The master acts as a quasi-judicial mediator, giving lawyers an alternative outside of court for resolving discovery disputes.

The process isnt perfect, Ferguson said, but theres an expectation of cooperation between parties. Theres an unwritten rule that this deposition is not going to take 20 days, he said.

New Yorks long history of asbestos litigation also has yielded case law outlining which work sites and products carried exposure risks.

We know who all the potential defendants are and could be, Ferguson said. Theres been decades of discovery. Theres no mystery.

This story is part of Unequal Risk. Workers in America face risks from toxic exposures that would be considered unacceptable outside the job. Click here to read more stories in this series.

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.
Blame it on Posh Spice. In September 2014, the Welsh moors were overrun by micro pigs, having been popularized by celebrities like Victoria Beckham who bought them as pets. But baby animals dont stay micro for long, and the pigs, set free once puberty hit, were soon running wild and interbreeding all over the countryside. So Swansea Council hired a licensed professional to shoot most of them  wee, wee, wee  all the way to their certain death.

Sometimes hunting is used to combat overpopulation, which can be a real problem in rural areas. Animals with no predators can spread disease, destroy crops and breed rampantly, leaving concerned citizens and local governments with no choice but to order  or participate in  culls. But why not shoot the animals with contraceptive darts instead of bullets?

Itd be hugely useful in places like India, for instance, where hunting is largely banned. There is an animal in the western state of Rajasthan in India called the nilgai, a kind of antelope that can tear up farmers fields. Some Rajasthanis consider it a kind of cow and thus sacred; even though the nilgai can be pests of the first order, and farmers can obtain hunting permits, most are reluctant to kill the animals. So the state government got creative: It invented a sport that looks a lot like hunting. Humans still shoot at an animal, but they dont kill it. Instead, they aim for the ass and try to hit the creatures with immunocontraceptives.

No 14-year-old wants to be shot full of deer contraceptives, but it sure beats dying.

Its true that most animals probably would rather not be sterilized, but Anita Carswell of In Defense of Animals says, We think it is safe to say that when faced with sterilization or death, most animals would choose sterilization.

Humans included. Even in regions where hunting isnt prohibited by law or tradition, contraceptives are a better option than bullets. In October 2014, a Texas dove hunter fatally shot himself in the neck. The next month, a 14-year-old boy who was hunting deer in California shot and killed another 14-year-old who moved into his line of fire. No 14-year-old wants to be shot full of deer contraceptives, but it sure beats dying.

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No, this solution wont satisfy everyone. Some people really, really want to mount deer heads on their walls  or even, as in the case of sport hunter Nele Dageforde, just want to know that the meat theyre eating came from an animal that had a pretty decent life and wasnt stuffed full of antibiotics or killed in an abattoir. On the other side are those who dont countenance any kind of hunting for sport  even if it isnt as cruel to sterilize an animal as it is to kill it. Contraceptives wont do much to stop wild animals from destroying property in the short-term, either. And is overpopulation even a real thing? Maybe its human overpopulation we should be looking at rather than the tiny space the nilgai have managed to carve out for themselves in the world.

But, hey: A good compromise leaves everybody mad. Lets snag the rifles from the hunters, but let them have their fun  and even do a little good for the environment  with guns thatll only put a moratorium on the next generation of animals, not the one thats currently alive.

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By Jibran Ahmed and Kay Johnson PESHAWAR, Pakistan/ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - The Taliban faction that killed at least 70 people, many of them children, in a park in Lahore on Easter Sunday has been quickly gaining attention in militant circles. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's recent rise to prominence - Sunday's attack was the fifth it has claimed since December - plus its onetime pledge of allegiance to Islamic State show the fractured and sometimes competitive nature of Pakistan's myriad militants. "They are nowadays the main group claiming attacks in the past few months," said Mansour Khan Mehsud, lead researcher of the FATA Research Group, said of Jamaat-ur-Ahrar. In Sunday's attack, 29 of the 70 killed were children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. Pakistan is a majority Muslim state but has some two million Christians, and Easter is a public holiday. It was the most deadly attack in Pakistan since the December 2014 massacre by the Taliban of 134 school children at a military run academy in the northwestern city of Peshawar. A spokesman for Jamaat-ur-Ahrar (JA) on Monday threatened other attacks, including more against religious minorities. "We don't target women and children, but Islam allows us to kill men of the Christian community who are against our religion," spokesman Ehansullah Ehsan said. The group's leader, Omar Khalid Khorasani, has a background that reads like a history of Pakistani militancy. Born Abdul Wali in a small village called Lakaro in the northwestern Mohmand tribal region, Khorasani started out as an anti-India jihadist fighting in Kashmir, according to a long-time friend and militant colleague who spoke on condition of anonymity. He later joined the Pakistani Taliban in 2007 to fight the government to establish strict sharia Islamic law. In 2013, Khorasani was one of the candidates to lead the Pakistani Taliban - who are separate from but loosely allied with the Afghan Taliban - after its chief Hakimullah Mehsud was killed in a U.S. drone strike. After losing out to Maulana Fazlullah, Khorasani left the next year to form his own group. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar in September 2014 swore allegiance to Islamic State, also known as Daesh. "We respect them. If they ask us for help, we will look into it and decide," spokesman Ehsan told Reuters of Islamic State, while rejecting the main Pakistani Taliban leadership. By March 2015, however, the group was again swearing loyalty to the main Pakistani Taliban umbrella leadership. The reason for its return to the fold remains murky, but JA never specifically disavowed Islamic State either. Khorasani was seriously wounded in a NATO air strike in eastern Afghanistan last year, Ehsan confirmed, but said he has fully recovered and is in hiding. Like many Pakistani militants, Jamaat-ur-Ahrar's fighters sometimes flee into Afghanistan to escape a Pakistani army crackdown along the border that began in 2014. Pakistani authorities have expressed fears that the ideology of the Middle East-based Islamic State - which places greater emphasis on killing Christians and minority Shia Muslims - could intensify sectarian violence in Pakistan. Targeting minorities is not-uncommon among Pakistan's predominantly Sunni Muslim militants, but it is a far more pronounced trait of Islamic State. Jamaat-ur-Ahrar had previously targeted Christians - in March 2015, it claimed two church bombings in Lahore that killed 14 people - but researcher Mehsud said he doubted JA's loose affiliation to Islamic State was the cause. Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a U.S.-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the Sept. 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States. While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also been attacked by various factions. Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013. JA is vying for attention in the militant-saturated northwest that has some 60-70 armed Islamist groups, researcher Mehsud said. "They target Christians and other minorities because it will get media attention ... this is not something new," he said. "They want to strike fear and show that they are still here and the military has not defeated the Taliban." (Additional reporting by Asad Hashim and Mubasher Bukhari; Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by Ruth Pitchford)
Kuala Lumpur (AFP) - A Malaysian designer's caricatures of the scandal-plagued prime minister as a sinister clown have become a viral phenomenon, spurring a wider protest-through-images movement and making the artist a target of authorities.

The parodies of Prime Minister Najib Razak have rapidly become Malaysia's most controversial images, earning designer and activist Fahmi Reza comparisons to street-art provocateurs like Banksy.

Shared widely on social media, they have sparked copycat variations and struck a chord with Malaysians outraged by corruption allegations levelled at Najib and his moves to thwart investigations.

"Our country is being governed by fools and crooks," Fahmi, a punk-rock afficionado, said in an email interview while on an extended trip overseas.

He seeks to "point out the hypocrisies (of Malaysian politics), to draw attention to these absurdities, and get people to laugh at it."

But Malaysian authorities are not amused.

Fahmi, 38, who has been arrested previously for his activism, was questioned by police and told to stop posting the images, which show Najib in powder-white clown make-up, with evilly arched eyebrows and a garish blood-red mouth.

He said police were investigating possible violations of multimedia laws that could bring five years in prison.

Last year, a Malaysian political cartoonist famed for skewering the government was hit with multiple sedition charges that lawyers say could see him jailed for up to 43 years.

- 'You can't jail the rebellion' -

Fahmi, who calls art his "weapon", remains undeterred.

"They can jail a rebel, but they can't jail the rebellion," he said.

Najib is battling accusations that billions of dollars were stolen from a state-owned company he oversees, and is under pressure for accepting a mysterious $681 million overseas payment.

He denies accusations that the huge payment was funnelled from the now-struggling fund, but has fuelled anger by curbing investigations, purging government critics over the scandal, and clamping down on media reporting of it.

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Allegations of a cover-up crescendoed in January when Najib's hand-picked attorney general abruptly absolved him of any wrongdoing in taking the huge payment.

Shortly afterwards, Fahmi -- already angered by a wave of sedition charges against government critics in recent years -- began circulating his clown caricatures on Malaysia's hyperactive social media.

The images, and copycat iterations, have been widely shared online, while posters and stickers have begun appearing on public walls, which authorities quickly remove.

The guerrilla campaign has highlighted social media's emergence as a political battleground.

With mainstream media controlled by the long-ruling regime, the opposition has harnessed the Internet in a run of recent election successes, aided by a new generation of voters.

Authorities promised years ago not to censor the Internet, but have displayed increasing unease, recently forming a police unit to scour cyberspace for "seditious" content.

- Punk rebel -

The government has also sought to use the Internet to its advantage, but drew scorn for a recent #RespectMyPM campaign that was savagely pounced upon by Twitter users, with trolls changing it to #SuspectMyPM.

Fahmi, a Muslim, cuts an unusual avant-garde figure in Islamic-majority Malaysia with his all-black ensemble of jacket, jeans, thick-rimmed glasses, shoulder-length hair and beret.

Educated in the United States as an electrical engineer, his art is largely self-taught.

He counts the Atelier Populaire movement, which produced powerful posters during 1968 strikes and demonstrations that gripped France, as a major influence, and punk rock provides his soundtrack while working.

Fahmi stresses that his work typically skewers not just Najib but all sides in multi-ethnic Malaysia's politics, where an entrenched ethnic Malay ruling elite is struggling to fend off a fractious pan-racial opposition promising to end money politics and democratic abuses.

Denouncing the "childish" bickering and race-baiting, Fahmi is puckishly pleased with the movement he has started.

"When people are emboldened to defy and stand up against injustice, against corruption, it chips away at the power structure that keeps people docile," he said.
By Aziz El Yaakoubi RABAT (Reuters) - Moroccan oil refiner has lodged an appeal against a court decision to put it into liquidation and named an independent trustee to Samir run the company, the refiner's lawyer said on Friday. Samir, controlled by Corral Petroleum Holdings, halted production last August due to financial difficulties. "We had 10 days to file an appeal and we finally did it on Thursday," Samir's lawyer Abdelkbir Tabih said. Morocco's tax administration has frozen the company's bank accounts in pursuit of a 13 billion dirham ($1.34 billion) tax claim. The Moroccan government has said Samir's total debt is around 44 billion dirhams. The company warned last week it expected to report a wider loss for 2015 after the production halt and its bank accounts were frozen. It said it was still paying salaries and social contributions for its 1,200 workers. As Morocco's only refinery, its closure would make the country entirely reliant on imports. At just under 300,000 barrels per day, Morocco's petroleum consumption is Africa's fifth largest, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The trustee, running the operation pending the appeal, is preparing to resume production at the company's 200,000 barrel-per-day (bpd) Mohammedia refinery, located on the Atlantic coast near Casablanca, sources from the company said. EIGHT MILLION BARRELS One of the sources said the company may face difficulties in getting the crude to process after starting production. The source added the refinery would start by processing a tanker of 120,000 tonnes of crude oil that has been stuck at Mohammedia port since August when the management announced it had halted production. The tanker was sent by Saudi's Aramco. "The trustee has been trying to get the required authorisations to let it dock, but that tanker will last barely 5 to 6 days," the source said. Samir has also launched a tender to buy 8 million barrels of regular Urals or Kirkuk crude oil for delivery from April through June, according to a company email sent to traders and seen by Reuters on Friday. The tender will close on March 30 at 10 am local time (1000 GMT) and all cargoes are for delivery to the port of Mohammedia. Business news website Medias24, which first reported the tender, said Samir might get a deal with a trading house already exposed to its financial difficulties. Medias24 said Samir would receive the crude and pay back by refined products. The court has given Samir until June 20 to continue business as usual pending a final solution for the company. Saudi billionaire Mohammed al-Amoudi, owner of Corral Holdings which controls 67.26 pct of Samir, has been negotiating with the Moroccan government, but talks have failed so far to find a solution to the refinery's crisis. Morocco's government said it would do everything possible to recover unpaid taxes and protect the refinery's workers. ($1 = 9.7225 Moroccan dirham) (Reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi; Editing by Alison Williams and Mark Potter)
RABAT (Reuters) - Moroccan lender BMCE Bank of Africa's net profit rose 1 percent to 1.95 billion dirham ($201.76 million) in 2015 as strong growth in banking activities offset non-recurrent charges and higher bad loans. Consolidated net banking income rose 3 percent to 11.8 billion dirhams in the same period, it said in a statement on Monday. Banking income was held back by non-recurrent charges, BMCE said, without elaborating. Its risk costs fell 19 percent to 1.4 billion dirhams from 1.8 billion in 2014. BMCE, like other big lenders in Morocco, has faced higher risks in sub-Saharan Africa where it has been developing aggressively, and bad loans in its home market after years of economic turmoil following the financial crisis and Arab spring. Total bad loans rose to 7.3 billion dirhams from 6.9 billion dirham at the end of 2014, data from the bank showed. Return on equity (ROE) fell to 13 percent in 2015 from 13.7 percent in 2014. Total assets jumped 13 percent to 279.42 billion dirhams. Sub-Saharan subsidiaries Bank of Africa, La Congolaise de Banque and Banque de Developpement du Mali contributed 30 percent to BMCE's profit, it said. In 2013, the bank became the first private financial institution in North Africa to issue bonds in international capital markets. Along with other Moroccan banks, BMCE is preparing to launch an Islamic subsidiary after the authorities gave the go-ahead to establish Islamic banks and issue sukuk, or Islamic bonds. ($1 = 9.7130 Moroccan dirham) (Reporting by Aziz El Yaakoubi; Editing by Alison Williams and Susan Thomas)
He was choked, pushed against a wall and stomped by his mother, and he later died from his severe injuries. All because the four-year-old boy was unable to recite the numbers 11 to 18 in Malay.



Noraidah Mohd Yussof, 34, assaulted Mohammad Airyl Amirul Haziq Mohamed Ariff on 1 August 2014 at her flat in Eunos Crescent. Airyl succumbed to his injuries four days later.

Appearing in the High Court on Monday (28 March), Noraidah pleaded guilty to two counts each of causing grievous hurt and ill-treating a child for the assault.

But the fatal assault was not an isolated case. Noraidah, a divorcee, admitted to four other instances of physical abuse between 2012 and 2014 that took place at her Eunos flat.

She was originally charged with causing grievous hurt. When the boy died, she was charged with murder but this was later amended to the original charge.

Abuse began in 2012

Court papers revealed that the abuse started some time in March 2012 after Noraidah got upset with her son for being unable to recite the alphabet properly. She pushed Airyl to the floor before stepping on his ribs. She also twisted and pulled his hand during that incident.

Noraidah took her son to Kandang Kerbau Hospital on 12 March 2012 where Airyl was diagnosed to have suffered from fractures to his elbow, calf and ribs.

According to court papers, Airyl was then referred to the Ministry of Family and Social Development, which placed him under the care of his maternal uncle and sister in law. The papers did not mention why she was allowed to resume taking care of her son later.



Deadly assault in 2014

On 1 August 2014, Noraidah fetched Airyl from school and brought him home.

After lunch, Noraidah asked her son to recite the numbers 11-18 in English and Malay. She got angry when Airyl was unable to recite the numbers in Malay and shouted at him.

She then asked her son to do it again around 4.30 pm and was infuriated when he was unable to do it again. Noraidah then pushed her son, causing him to fall backwards and hit his head.

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Her son got up and continued reciting the numbers wrongly. Noraidah then pushed him again before stepping on him.

She then asked her son to get ready and follow her to fetch her eldest daughter from school. While this was happening, her son still recited the wrong number sequence in Malay to her.

Enraged, Noraidah choked her son and pushed him up against the wall. The boy started gasping for air and later stopped moving.

Noraidah then called her sister-in-law for help and lied to her that the boy hit his head after a fall in the toilet. They took the boy to a nearby clinic, where the doctor called for an ambulance.

The boy underwent emergency surgery but remained in critical condition and died four days later.

Sentencing at a later date

Justice Lee Seiu Kin, who presided over the case, will sentence Noraidah at a later date. A separate hearing will be held to resolve the difference in opinions between the psychiatrists for the prosecution and the defence.

Noraidahs counsels, led by Sunil Sudheesan, said that their psychiatrist concluded that she was suffering from Aspergers syndrome at the time of the assault.

However, Deputy Public Prosecutor April Phang told the court that Noraidahs familys accounts to the defence psychiatrist were different from the ones they had earlier given to a psychiatrist from the Institute of Mental Health.
When pundits claim Donald Trump can win the presidency, they often evoke a fabled political species: Reagan Democrats. Are Reagan Democrats becoming Trump Democrats? wondered CNN commentator Jeffrey Lord last fall in The American Spectator. I think theres a lot of Reagan Democrats waiting to vote for him, declared MSNBCs Chris Matthews in January.

This almost certainly isnt true. The more you examine it, the more far-fetched the claim that Trump can win the presidency by luring vast numbers of Reagan Democrats looks.

What is a Reagan Democrat? At its most literal, its a Northern, white, noncollege-educated Democrat who actually voted for Ronald Reagan. But there arent many of them left. The typical blue-collar white man who at age 30 voted for Reagan in 1980 cant vote for Trump this fall. Hes dead. White men born in 1950 die on average at age 66. Thats this year. White working-class men die even earlier. The average white woman who at age 30 voted for Reagan in 1980 will live a bit longer: until 2022. Most white working-class women, however, wont make it until then.

So when people talk about Reagan Democrats today, they dont mean Democrats who actually voted for Reagan. They mean the people who resemble them demographically: Northern blue-collar whites. But blue-collar whites dont enjoy the same political significance they did in the 1980s. In the 1988 presidential election, they constituted more than half the voters. This fall, theyll constitute roughly one-third. A new Center for American Progress report, brought to my attention by The Washington Posts Greg Sargent, notes that in the classic Reagan Democrat states of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin, blue-collar-whites share of the electorate will shrink two percentage points between 2012 and 2016 alone.

Not only are blue-collar whites a smaller share of the electorate than in 1980, they also behave differently. As American University political scientist David Lublin notes, The early 1980s were the height of weak partisanship with voters much more willing to defect from their party in elections than today. Back then, Democrats were less homogenously liberal. Lots of whites with fairly conservative views on race, gender, and national security still identified with the party. So ideologically, voting for Reagan wasnt much of a stretch.

Recommended: The Obama Doctrine

Since then, however, American politics has witnessed a massive ideological sorting. The kind of conservative blue-collar whites who would once have been Reagan Democrats are now mostly Republicans. As The Washington Posts Phillip Bump notes, working-class whites are almost 10 percentage points more likely to identify with the GOP than they were in 1980. Those blue-collar whites who remain Democrats are more liberal. It may be because theyre members of unions and thus more sympathetic to a pro-government message. It may be because theyre Millennials, who even in the white working class tend to be more secular, more pro-gay marriage, and less racially resentful than their parents and grandparents. It may because they are women, who are somewhat more liberal than men overall.

The point is that, because of this sorting, notes Emorys Alan Abramowitz, Party ID [now] predicts vote choice very well. In 2012, Mitt Romney won Republicans 93 to 6 percent. Obama won Democrats 92 to 7 percent. Not many people cross party lines in presidential elections anymore.

More Republicans are planning to vote for Hillary than Democrats are planning to vote for Trump.

To mobilize large numbers of Trump Democrats, Trump would have to change all this. But theres little evidence that he can. A March Washington Post poll found that in a hypothetical matchup with Trump, Hillary Clinton wins Democrats 86 to 9 percent. That means, right now, that Trump does indeed gain a few more Democratic defections than Romney did. The problem is that Trump is only winning Republicans 75 to 14 percent. In other words, more Republicans are planning to vote for Hillary than Democrats are planning to vote for Trump, which helps explain why Clinton is leading in almost all the head-to-head polls.

Perhaps Trump voters are embarrassed to admit that they support him, and polls thus far understate his support. But Lublin points out that, so far in the primaries, this hasnt been the case. Trump hasnt done better on election days than the polls predict. He has done slightly worse. Nor has 2016 witnessed an avalanche of white blue-collar Democrats crossing over to vote for Trump in Republican primaries. GOP primary turnout has been higher: higher than it was in 2012 and higher than the turnout on the Democratic side. And Trump does seem to be mobilizing a significant number of first-time voters. But not many of these are Democrats. According to exit polls, while some states have seen more Democrats crossing over to vote in Republican primaries than in 2012, many others have seen fewer. In Michigan, for instance, a key Reagan Democrat state, the number of Democrats who voted in the Republican primary is way down.

Recommended: The Real Secret of Washington, D.C.

The electoral fantasy that Trump can win the presidency by luring vast numbers of blue-collar whites who wouldnt otherwise vote Republican is akin to the ideological fantasy that he can keep America prosperous and safe by banning Muslim immigration and getting Mexico to pay for a wall on the U.S. southern border. Its a fantasy that he can roll back history to a time when whites enjoyed more control, both over nonwhites inside the United States and over those who wish to enter from outside. This throwback fantasy is appealing inside a Republican Party where white voters remain unquestionably dominant. But in the America of today, reality is very different. And, unfortunately for Donald Trump, its in todays Americanot Ronald Reagansthat he must compete this fall.

Read more from The Atlantic:

This article was originally published on The Atlantic.
Rome (AFP) - Nearly 1,500 migrants, including many women and children, have been rescued in the Mediterranean off the coast of Libya over the past two days, the Italian coastguard said Monday.

A total of 1,482 people were picked up in about a dozen rescue operations at sea on Sunday and Monday, according to the Italian coastguard which coordinated the search and rescue efforts.

They did not release the nationalities of the migrants and refugees.

They said 730 people were rescued on Sunday and 752 on Monday. They did not provide a breakdown of the number of children and women on board.

The UN refugee agency said last week that nearly 14,500 migrants had arrived in Italy via Libya since the start of the year, up 42.5 percent on the same period a year earlier.

Libya has long been a stepping stone for migrants seeking a better life in Europe, with Italy some 300 kilometres (185 miles) across the sea.

European leaders fear that a recent deal with Ankara to stem the flow of migrants arriving in Greece via Turkey will increase crossings attempts from Libya.
Niamey (AFP) - Niger's opposition said Monday it was ready to open a dialogue with President Mahamadou Issoufou after boycotting his contested re-election.

"We reiterated the willingness of the opposition to open a dialogue that is wide-ranging, sincere and inclusive," said Mahamane Malam Sani, secretary general of Moden, the party of opposition candidate Hama Amadou.

"It is not a question of sorting out some technical questions" but finding "lasting solutions" to the country's "extremely difficult situation," he said following talks with Prime Minister Brigi Rafini.

Issoufou won 92 percent of the vote in the March 20 run-off election in the impoverished but uranium-rich West African country, which was marred by low voter turnout in the face of an opposition boycott.

Amadou, imprisoned since November on shadowy baby trafficking charges, was flown to France for medical treatment just days before the second-round vote.

Issoufou has proposed forming a unity government, an offer repeated by Niger's premier in the talks with the opposition on Monday.

"I am ready to put in place a government of national unity with the opposition in order to face the threats facing the people of Niger," Issoufou told AFP in an interview Wednesday.

"There is not just a security challenge, there are other challenges including economic and social development. All these challenges need a sacred union," he said.

The opposition alliance Copa 2016, which groups several parties, did not indicate its response to Issoufou's offer. It has previously called for a period of transition with the view to holding new elections.

The poor West African state, where three-quarters of the population live on less than $2 a day, has only had a multi-party democracy since 1990.

Niger holds the lowest place on the comprehensive Human Development Index drawn up each year by the UN Development Programme.
President Obama set a high foreign policy bar five months after his election by describing nuclear terrorism as the most immediate and extreme threat to global security, and by promising to lead an international effort to lock down all vulnerable nuclear material worldwide within four years.

In so doing, he rhetorically placed the need to bottle up loose nuclear weapons or their sparkplugs  the fissile materials that make them go bang  even higher on the list of his priorities than slowing climate change, stopping an Iranian nuclear weapon, or brokering a historic Middle East peace deal.

As the Obama administration winds down and the final U.S.-led international summit on this topic nears, its a logical moment to consider whether the president kept this promise. And theres now a broad consensus that, despite some progress, the sweeping ambition he articulated not only remains unfulfilled but out of reach for the foreseeable future.

Why did the effort fall short? Certainly the challenge of ensuring nuclear explosives are not misused has been with us for decades. But why has a goal that seems so ordinary, and so sensible, and so important, and so urgent, been so hard to realize?

Whos responsible? And how can the world make more progress, faster, before a calamitous nuclear explosion occurs  potentially the first in a populated area in more than 60 years  and makes everyone wish they had taken the issue more seriously, and acted more vigorously, and with more haste?

These were some of the questions we posed when my colleagues and I at the Center for Public Integrity embarked in 2013 on an investigation into the nuclear security outliers  the recalcitrant states, the misguided efforts, and the wasted opportunities that have undermined the decades-long U.S.-led effort to put fissile material genies back into bottles.

This story is part of Nuclear Waste. A look at the worlds faltering efforts to control dangerous nuclear explosives. Click here to read more stories in this investigation.

Don't miss another National Security investigation: Sign up for the Center for Public Integrity's Watchdog email.

The scope of the threat is daunting. The worlds military and civilian nuclear programs have produced some 500 metric tons of pure plutonium, an amount that could fuel tens of thousands of nuclear weapons yet fit into a backyard shed. Countries with nuclear programs continue to add roughly 2 tons to this inventory every year. And yet it doesnt take much to unleash a catastrophe: A grapefruit-sized bit of plutonium is enough to build a nuclear bomb.

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Highly enriched uranium  the other sparkplug of a nuclear blast besides plutonium  is actually the terrorists explosive of choice, because its a bit easier to handle and use, and theres more of it around.

Roughly 1,390 metric tons of highly-enriched uranium are still located at hundreds of military and civilian sites in two dozen countries. More grim news: A bombs worth could fit in an empty 5-lb sack of flour and emit so little radiation it could be carried in a backpack with little hazard to the wearer. Physicists say a sizable nuclear blast could be readily achieved by slamming two shaped chunks of it together at high speed. The majority of this inventory is in the United States and Russia, but large stocks also exist in the United Kingdom, France, India, Pakistan, China and Japan.

Altogether, the stockpiles could be used in theory to construct 20,000 uranium bombs and nearly 80,000 plutonium weapons. These are not favorable odds for humanity, as Eric Schlosser has so eloquently written about other nuclear weapons-related dangers. Theyre a disaster waiting to happen. And this is not my view, or a partisan view. Its the view of those experts who have seriously studied this issue.

A tiny fraction of the overall defense budget

President Obama certainly hasnt been a slacker. Hes spoken powerfully about the nuclear terrorism threat before international audiences. Hes organized three summits focused on these risks, each used by his appointees to try to persuade or bludgeon other nations into taking this issue as seriously as nuclear weapons experts do.

The summits have been useful stages for a dozen countries to announce that theyve had their last nuclear bender. Theyve told the world that they either have sent or will soon send all their nuclear materials back to Russia or to the United States.

The Obama administration, moreover, has invested more than $5 billion in nuclear security programs, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, a Washington nonprofit group that advocates tighter control of nuclear explosive materials. That figure includes funds given to Russia and other countries to help secure their weapons, to convert research reactors so they burn fuel composed of materials that cannot be used in weapons, and to improve the physical security and accounting of nuclear explosive materials.

Five billion dollars over seven years is not chump change, but its less than one percent of the amount spent on national defense during every single one of the Obama years.

Over the course of his presidency, moreover, Obama has scaled back nuclear security goals and settled for what a senior White House official once described as the incremental nature of success," rather than throwing his administrations full weight behind the creation of new global security standards that independent experts say would have had a more lasting and significant impact.

In advance of the 2014 summit, the Department of Energys National Nuclear Security Administration, in a document labeled Official Use Only, said that while U.S. initiatives under Obama had made the world safer, there are still serious threats that require urgent attention. That May 2013 report, obtained by the Center for Public Integrity, said that terrorists were obviously still seeking nuclear weapons or the raw materials to build them.

It noted that hundreds of pounds of weapons-usable uranium are being stored at civilian sites, including in South Africa and Belarus, that experts have described as imperfectly-guarded. Scores of research reactors that use fuel composed of weapons-grade explosives are still operating, including more than 60 in Russia alone, and security precautions at these are lower than at military sites. Meanwhile, global plutonium stocks are rising, the report said, with more than 100 metric tons produced since 1998.

The internal Energy Department report called for removing or eliminating 1.1 metric tons of weapons-grade uranium and 400 kilograms  over 880 pounds  of plutonium from sites around the world. It urged the removal of all highly-enriched uranium  that is, uranium that could be fashioned into a bomb  in eight more foreign countries by 2016. It proposed that the administration undertake a better accounting of existing plutonium stocks, decide the best ways to dispose of it, and persuade other countries to balance production with consumption so that the net global stockpile will finally begin to shrink. It proposed substantially accelerating U.S. efforts to convert research reactors that use weapons-grade uranium to burn a form of uranium that cannot easily be used to fuel weapons  calling for 13 more such reactor conversions by the end of 2016.

None of these deadlines was adopted by the department, or the administration. Too difficult diplomatically, and too costly domestically, the Obama administrations policymakers decided.

There wasnt much interest in other countries, a former senior official deeply involved in the effort told us, and the political benefits for the administration turned out to be more limited than initially anticipated.

Nuclear weapons modernization gets a higher priority

Moreover, as the administration was debating how much to invest in nuclear security in 2014, there were debates, said Matthew Bunn, a nuclear weapons expert who formerly worked at the White House, in June of that year. Should they provide more money for nonproliferation, or more money for weapons? Its clear that weapons won that debate. Proposed spending since then has well fallen short of earlier projections.

So where do we stand now?

Japan, India, Pakistan, the Netherlands, North Korea, and the United Kingdom are increasing their stocks of weapons-usable nuclear materials, a circumstance that only adds to the burdens of locking them safely away.

While four nuclear weapons states  France, the United Kingdom, the United States and Israel  signed a useful agreement at the 2014 U.S.-led summit entitled Strengthening Nuclear Security Implementation, three other key nations  Russia, China, and Pakistan  declined. (India declined then but more recently has indicated it may sign the agreement later this month.) The agreement asked for little more than a commitment to follow International Atomic Energy Agency nuclear security guidelines.

Along with India and Russia, Japan still plans to build a new energy system based on advanced plutonium-burning reactors. In Japan, the fuel would be supplied by a factory at Rokkasho that will be the worlds largest for making plutonium. It has a security system that U.S. experts consider too casual, making its imminent opening a sore point in that countrys nuclear-related discussions with Washington for at least the past decade.

South Korea has expressed a similar interest in plutonium production to supply reactor fuel, pointing explicitly to Japan as a precedent. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, and Indonesia could also follow Japans example. Experts also worry about Turkey, Vietnam or Egypt.

Already, Japan has 9.3 metric tons of plutonium stored at Rokkasho and nine other sites in the island nation; about 35 tons of plutonium are stored in France and the United Kingdom. Once Rokkasho opens, the size of its stockpile could easily double in five and a half years, because by the governments own forecast Japan is at least 20 years from completing the first of the commercial reactors designed to burn the plutonium that Rokkasho will produce.

Building such large factories for nuclear materials poses special risks. Experts say the International Atomic Energy Agency will likely be able to track 99 percent of the plutonium as it moves through the Rokkasho plant. While 99 percent might sound good, the plants annual output will be so high that a one-percent error rate means roughly eighty kilograms of plutonium a year could be untraceable  enough for 26 bombs. Critics worry as a result that the sizable uncertainties will open the door to diversion attempts by insiders.

India, meanwhile, completed in 2011 a reprocessing plant capable of extracting new plutonium from about 100 tons of spent fuel yearly at Tarapur, north of Mumbai. It joined three older plants that produced an estimated 3.8 to 4.6 metric tons of plutonium over the past 40 years. Another plutonium plant is under construction at Kalpakkam, south of Chennai on the Indian Ocean, which the Nuclear Threat Initiative said will likely surpass Tarapur as Indias largest plutonium producer.

Indias security precautions at such sites have generally been panned by U.S. officials, who privately rank them below those in Russia or Pakistan, and also say they see little evidence the country is doing enough to keep potential terrorists at bay. A paramilitary force responsible for guarding all of Indias nuclear sites is short-staffed, poorly trained, and ill-equipped, our reporting revealed. (Since our series appeared, a debate has ignited there over whether India should create a more specialized nuclear security force).

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China, meanwhile, has criticized Japans plutonium plans but is considering building a new civilian plutonium plant about the size of Rokkasho at the site of two decommissioned military plutonium plants at the Jiuquan Complex in Gansu Province.

And the United States itself has not exactly set a shining example. A deal with Russia that called on each nation to get rid of 34 tons of plutonium extracted from retired weapons has foundered. Russia has proposed to feed the plutonium into reactors that can produce more of it; the United States has separately made a complete mess of its plan to burn up the plutonium in reactors, with a half-built specialized fuel factory likely to be mothballed in the wake of massive cost overruns and persistent mismanagement.

Washington still talks a good game. But in the course of our research, we discovered a simple but distressing fact: Many countries dont take the threat of nuclear terrorism as seriously as the United States. Why? First, no government is good at dealing with low-probability, high consequence events, like a terrorist nuclear blast. Its always easier to hope this is not a current-generation problem.

Second, other governments argue, the United States is a more likely target for resentful extremists than nations with smaller international footprints. Let Washington deal with it, they say.

Washington helped create the problem

Third, other countries also dont bear as large a burden of history as Washington does. U.S. officials sowed the seeds of a potential terrorist-engineered disaster under a program that operated for decades with the avowed aim of helping smaller, non-nuclear weapons countries build research reactors and embrace a nuclear-powered future. Pursuing a policy that now evokes what-were-they-possibly-thinking wonder, the United States helped spread nuclear explosive materials around the globe.

Of the 35 countries that received an estimated 23 tons of highly-enriched uranium under this program  mostly France, Germany and Canada  only fifteen have returned all they received, with about 6.1 tons remaining at 40 locations in 20 countries, according to a May 2014 Nuclear Regulatory Commission Report.

Fourth, some nations also regard the prospect of militants building an improvised nuclear bomb as the stuff of science fiction movie; their officials simply dont understand how easily such a weapon might be made, even by non-experts. They see themselves as unlikely targets and are reluctant to invest substantial sums to curb what they consider a distant threat. Its not their problem, they say with considerable boldness.

Fifth, and in the most worrisome category, still others see nuclear explosive materials as a tool to heighten their international standing  a dark reputation-enhancer, if you will  or as a kind of insurance policy, something that could one day be converted into weaponry if international conditions warrant it.

Japan falls into this category, our reporting shows, as does South Africa, which has indignantly rebuffed U.S. suggestions that it give up a stockpile of nuclear explosives sufficient to fuel a half dozen bombs, now locked in a former silver vault at a nuclear research center near the South African capital.

Inside Japan, and that is not only within the Democratic Party of Japan, there are entities who wish to be able to maintain the ability to produce Japans own plutonium, Naoto Kan, the Japanese prime minister from 2010-2011, told us in an interview. They do not say it in public, but they wish to have the capability to create nuclear weapons in case of a threat.

Pretoria has little plausible use for its own bomb-grade (enriched) uranium besides chest-thumping, our investigation showed. It intends not only to keep it but insists on the right to make more. Our international legally binding obligations allow for the enrichment of uranium for peaceful purposes only, irrespective of the enrichment level, South African president Jacob Zuma said at the 2012 nuclear security summit in Seoul.

This is the same demand made by Iran, and approved in last years deal with that country by the United States and five other world powers. And its hardly theirs alone. Although the Obama administration has tried to discourage uranium enrichment everywhere, leaders in Brazil, Argentina, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Jordan, and South Korea say they see nuclear power, along with the ability to enrich uranium, as their right.

Theres no question that the Obama administrations attention to this issue  and in particular its successful efforts to get a dozen countries to relinquish all their nuclear explosives  has helped diminish the threat that existed in 2009. But a hard obstacle remains: Other countries find it easy not to take Washington seriously, and to keep creating or holding onto nuclear explosives, while the United States insists on keeping thousands of nuclear weapons in its stocks that it depicts as a vital component of its national security.

As South Africas longtime nuclear ambassador and policymaker Abdul Minty memorably told us from his office in Geneva, People who smoke cant tell someone else not to smoke.

Actually, they can. All the world's nations don't have equal standing, as we know. But Mintys sentiment reflects the fact that many developing countries deeply resent being told to give up the same activities that major powers have long undertaken  even if doing the same thing winds up jeopardizing everyone. And after facing stout resistance in many foreign capitals, Washingtons eagerness to undertake diplomatic battles over nuclear security issues has now flagged.

The fourth U.S.-led nuclear security summit, scheduled for March 31 to April 1 in Washington, may bring some new, minor progress: Experts say a few more countries are likely to offer to give back their nuclear materials; new tasks will be given to the International Atomic Energy Agency; and new discussions will be held about the dangers posed by a diversion of nuclear materials into so-called dirty bombs that might spread radioactive contamination.

But there will be no shortage of urgent tasks for Obamas successor, if he or she looks closely at the nuclear security danger and decides it warrants their attention.

Two circumstances could make a major difference, and speed up the worlds response. One is the detonation of a terrorist bomb with nuclear fuel or radiological materials in it; a classic low-probability, high-consequence event that everyone will say they didnt see coming and they deeply regret allowing to happen. The other is probably concerted pressure from the United States,  more concerted and even more sustained pressure than the Obama administration provided.

This story is part of Nuclear Waste. A look at the worlds faltering efforts to control dangerous nuclear explosives. Click here to read more stories in this investigation.

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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.
Washington (AFP) - US President Barack Obama will discuss the growing threat of a nuclear-armed North Korea at a meeting this week with the leaders of Japan and South Korea, the White House said.

The trilateral sit-down on Thursday with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and South Korean President Park Geun-Hye will take place on the sidelines of a wider nuclear security summit bringing together delegations from dozens of countries.

It has been scheduled for the same day Obama holds one-on-one talks with Xi Jinping, the president of North Korea's main diplomatic ally and economic benefactor, China.

"This meeting will be an opportunity for the three leaders to discuss common responses to the threat posed by North Korea and to advance areas of trilateral security cooperation in the region and globally," the White House said.

In his talks with Park and Abe, Obama is sure to discuss the ramped-up rhetoric coming from North Korea, which carried out a nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch a month later, triggering new international sanctions.

In recent weeks, North Korea has claimed a series of key technical breakthroughs in its development of a long-range nuclear strike capability, and conducted its first test firing in two years of a medium-range ballistic missile.

Experts say the claims are likely a mix of fact and exaggeration. However, there is a consensus that North Korea is making steady progress towards its goal of developing an inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) that can accurately deliver a nuclear bomb as far as the continental United States.

That threat will loom large on the agenda of Thursday's trilateral meeting as well as Obama's talks with Xi.

US policymakers have pushed Beijing to put pressure on Pyongyang to stop its nuclear provocations, but China is concerned about the stability of its unpredictable neighbour.

North Korea, meanwhile, has labelled Obama's hosting of the two-day nuclear security summit in Washington as an act of "shameful" hypocrisy.

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"The US and its South Korean puppet group are going to use the above-said summit as a means for ratcheting up the sanctions against (North Korea), and finding fault with its legitimate access to nuclear weapons," the North's official KCNA news agency said in a commentary.

"It is ridiculous for the US and its followers to hold such a nonsensical summit," it said.

The summit itself will not address issues related to North Korea's recent weapons tests, with the fear that Islamic State militants could obtain nuclear material expected to weigh more heavily on the agenda.
Washington (AFP) - President Barack Obama is not expected to hold sit-down talks with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan when he visits Washington later this week for a nuclear security summit, amid deep divisions between the two NATO nations.

Several heads of state will attend the summit on Thursday and Friday, but Obama is only scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, an official said.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest underlined that both Obama and Vice President Joe Biden have met with Erdogan and Turkish officials repeatedly in recent months.

But the absence of a new face-to-face meeting with Erdogan this week, in the thick of the fight against the Islamic State group, is glaring.

Turkey and the United States are nominally close allies, but tensions have been stirred by Ankara's attacks on Kurdish militants, who are seen by Washington as the best bet for tackling the Islamic State group in Iraq and northern Syria.

Turkey says the groups are linked to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has fought a long battle for Kurdish independence.

The White House has been increasingly outspoken in recent months about threats to free speech and democracy in Turkey.

Earlier this month, the White House called on the Turkish government to respect democratic values, amid allegations of a fresh press crackdown.

"We urge Turkish authorities to ensure their actions uphold the universal democratic values enshrined in Turkey's constitution, including freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and freedom of the press," Earnest said.

Erdogan's government has been accused of authoritarianism and muzzling critical media as well as lawmakers, academics, lawyers and non-government groups.

Secretary of State John Kerry did meet his counterpart Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday, and both stressed the strength of US-Turkish ties.

Kerry expressed sympathy for Turkey's people and leaders after recent bomb attacks and insisted the two capitals are working together closely to combat the Islamic State group.

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"Turkey is an important partner with the United States in this effort. It is a NATO ally," he said.

Cavusoglu agreed, saying: "We have the full determination to defeat the terrorist groups in our neighborhood and all over the world."

The signs of tension marks dramatic change since the early days of the Obama administration, when Turkey was seen as a close partner and potential moderate stabilizing force in the Middle East.

The Turkish government has allowed coalition forces to use bases in southern Turkey to hit Islamic State targets.
LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan will launch a special paramilitary crackdown in Punjab, the country's richest and most-populous province, after an Easter Day bombing in the eastern city of Lahore killed 70 people, government and military sources told Reuters on Monday. The move represents the civilian government once again granting special powers to the military in order to fight Islamist militants. The crackdown would give paramilitary Rangers extraordinary powers to conduct raids and interrogate suspects similar to those the Rangers have used for more than two years in the southern city of Karachi, said a senior security official based in Lahore. "The technicalities are yet to be worked out. There are some legal issues also with bringing in Rangers, but the military and government are on the same page," he told Reuters on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to share details of the plan. One other military official and two government officials confirmed the decision on condition of anonymity. (Reporting by Mehreen Zahra-Malik and Mubasher Bukhari. Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by Nick Macfie)
By Mehreen Zahra-Malik ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistani property developer Malik Riaz Hussain, a flamboyant tycoon who boasts of connections with top military brass and senior politicians, plans to move into media to protect himself from those who accuse him of wrongdoing. Hussain is one of the country's richest and most powerful businessmen, a billionaire who has been caught up in corruption investigations and who is also well known for upmarket gated housing communities and charitable activities. Now the 66-year-old wants to build a media empire, which he hopes he can use to promote his own commercial interests and fend off those trying to tarnish his name. "I will go into media very soon. I will launch many TV channels, not one," Hussain told Reuters in a rare interview earlier this month at his Bahria Town housing development, just outside the capital Islamabad. "To stop blackmailers, I have decided that there is no way but to go into media." A world away from the chaotic, dirty streets of most Pakistani towns and cities, Bahria Town features giant replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty. The roads are clean and smooth, grass is imported from Thailand and private guards provide round-the-clock security. Bahria Town is larger than the capital itself, and is part of a property portfolio that includes more than 40,000 acres of developments across the country and pays salaries to 60,000 employees. FRANK ADMISSIONS Corruption is seen as a major problem in Pakistan, ranked 117th out of 168 countries in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index. The real estate business is seen as a major part of the problem, with land grabs by the government, military and businesses seen as rife. Hussain says he is Pakistan's sixth largest tax payer. He also publicly states that he has paid bribes to top politicians, judges and even members of the feared ISI intelligence agency. The publicity wing of the military, which answers for the ISI, declined to comment on Hussain's allegations. "If I tell you the amount of the biggest bribe I have ever paid, you will have a heart attack," Hussain said. In a public deposition in 2012 that hit Pakistani headlines, he said he had bankrolled the playboy lifestyle of the son of the country's chief justice in return for favorable treatment in court cases related to his empire. The case is ongoing, though it has stalled. Hussain also currently faces several investigations by the national corruption watchdog. Among the allegations against him are illegally grabbing land and using favor with politicians to have state-owned property allotted to him at throwaway prices. When asked about Hussain, the National Accountability Bureau said it did not comment on individual cases. Hussain denies wrongdoing, and says he needs the platform of television news channels to help defend his reputation. "I don't want to go into media, but there is no other way to handle this." He hopes a presence in Pakistan's young and boisterous news sector could also highlight his charitable contributions. Hussain previously held the license to Bol TV, a fledgling news channel, before he transferred it to software company Axact in 2013, documents from the national media regulatory body show. Hussain denies ever being involved in Bol. The channel was closed last year after the government launched an inquiry into Axact's business practices. Spurred by new technology and largely untouched by censors, Pakistan's broadcast media has flourished in recent years. Between 2002 and 2013, the state issued 89 broadcasting licenses. Television news channels are largely in Urdu, giving media groups influence over most of Pakistan's 190 million people. TIES WITH MILITARY? Hussain's accumulation of wealth is emblematic of Pakistan's nexus of money and connections. He started his career 30 years ago as a contractor who once sold his family silverware to take his infant daughter to hospital. His big break came in 1979 when he borrowed 1,500 rupees ($14.34) from a friend and applied for a contract with the military's engineering wing. That connection led to a long-standing relationship with the powerful military, Pakistan's largest landowner and contractor. Currently, he has five joint development projects with the army spread over thousands of acres. Recent chatter among Pakistan's elite suggests that Hussain may be losing his influence with the military under the country's army chief General Raheel Sharif. The military declined to comment. Hussain dismissed such rumors. "If I didn't have relations with Raheel Sharif, the joint ventures would have shut down, wouldn't they?" Hussain said. "I am friends with the army, I am friends with the institution." (Writing by Mehreen Zahra-Malik; editing by Kay Johnson and Mike Collett-White)
Its happened to all of us: You buy something online  maybe a pair of jeans or a juicer  but when it arrives it isnt quite what you wanted. (Since when does slim fit mean so tight youll live with a perpetual wedgie?) Luckily, modern day brands know the value of happy customers, so they process full refunds with a smile on their face. But it wasnt a big retail chain that pioneered returns: It was the Roman Catholic Church with marriage annulments. And where and how many people around the world are having buyers remorse might surprise you, too.

The United States still leads (or trails?) the way, with almost half of all marriage take-backs in the world, according to Charles Reid, a professor of law at St. Thomas University in Minnesota, who cites the Catholic Churchs statistical yearbook. But since the 90s, American annulments have fallen off a cliff, from 72,308 in 1990 to 24,010 in 2012:

66

Percent that American annulments have fallen from 1990 to 2012

Hallelujah, Americans must be getting divorced far less, right? Eh, not so much. Credit not just the younger generations hesitation to get married in the first place, but also a big trust issue with clergy, courtesy of rampant and well-publicized pedophilia scandals, Reid says. The States were also issued exceptional rules, and have more lawyers and clergy to accommodate divorcees back into the church. The result: More than 90 percent of annulment petitions are granted.

In which case, you wouldnt necessarily expect Poland to have the second highest incidence of annulments. The almost exclusively Catholic nation has a pretty harsh view on divorce, even going as far as likening it to pedophilia in its harmfulness to children. Nonetheless, over 2,000 annulment petitions were filed in 2012, which put it at half of the American rate. One possibility: In a country of 90-plus percent Catholics, there are not many other places for divorced (and thus frowned upon) believers to turn to God.

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And then theres Ireland. Out of a nation of 3.6 million Catholics, 327 annulments were filed in 2012. Why so few? Its shocking considering 87,000 are divorced, says Reid. Again, credit mistrust of clergy caused by pedophilia scandals and general skepticism of marriage and religion itself, he says.

Fearing a mass exodus of divorcees from the church, Pope Francis has his eye on reforming the annulment process by making it quicker, cheaper and more accessible. He might even consider abolishing it altogether, like the Greek Orthodox Church has, suggests Reid. But the former is far more likely.

Until then, there are always other options for ex-lovers, like independent Catholic denominations, which have about 20,000 faithful in the States alone. One of the main reasons believers join the Ecumenical Catholic Communion, the largest independent denomination, is because theyll marry divorced people, Francis Kebs, the churchs presiding bishop told OZY. Its people who feel excluded in sexual preference, gender or marriage history who are most attracted to us, he says. Doesnt really need a return policy at all, huh?

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SANTIAGO (Reuters) - South American neighbors Chile and Bolivia, which have long had thorny relations, are at loggerheads again - this time over access to a river that crosses their shared border. Over the Easter weekend, Bolivian leftist President Evo Morales threatened to go to the International Court of Justice in the Hague to resolve a long-running but until now low-profile dispute over the river Silala. Morales, who has been under pressure at home over an unfolding scandal involving a former girlfriend, argues that Chile has no right to use the water of the river, which originates in Bolivian territory and then flows into Chile. But top copper exporter Chile, which uses some of the water in the parched Atacama desert to feed mine operations, says the waters are international. Center-left President Michelle Bachelet said on Monday that Chile would counter with its own case in the Hague if Bolivia went ahead with its threat. "We will carry out all necessary actions to protect our national sovereignty," she said. Bolivia is already pressing a case against Chile in the Hague, seeking to force its neighbor to enter negotiations to grant it a corridor to the Pacific Ocean. (Reporting by Felipe Iturrieta; Writing by Rosalba O'Brien; Editing by W Simon)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian ground forces did not take part in the Syrian army's operation to drive Islamic State fighters out of the city of Palmyra, but the Russian air force did and it will continue assisting Syrian government troops, the Kremlin said on Monday. "We are talking about air support by our planes. Our armed forces are not conducting any land operations there," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a teleconference with reporters. "After the withdrawal of part of our (military) contingent from Syria, air force units remaining at two bases - in Hmeymim and Tartous - will continue fighting terrorist groups ... and will continue supporting the Syrian's army's offensive." (Reporting by Dmitry Solovyov; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - The presidents of Russia and Iran agreed on Monday to step up bilateral contacts, including over the Syrian conflict, in which both countries are allies of President Bashar al-Assad. The Syrian government and Western-backed opposition are currently holding U.N.-mediated peace talks as part of a diplomatic push launched with U.S.-Russian support to end the five-year conflict in which more than a quarter of a million people have been killed. The Kremlin said President Vladimir Putin and Iran's Hassan Rouhani had exchanged views on the conflict and a range of other topical issues during a telephone call. It gave no further details. Rouhani was quoted as saying cooperation and coordination between Tehran and Moscow were essential for peace in Syria. "During the ceasefire, the political talks (among Syrian groups) should be accelerated but this should not halt the fighting against terrorists in Syria," Iran's state news agency IRNA quoted the president as saying. Both the Kremlin and the secretary of the Iranian National Security Council (NSC) have congratulated Assad on the success of his forces in recapturing the desert city of Palmyra from Islamic State militants. "The Iranian government and armed forces will continue their full support of Syria and the Axis of Resistance," NSC Secretary Ali Shamkhani was quoted as saying. Iran refers to the regional anti-Israel alliance as the 'axis of resistance'. Syrian government forces backed by heavy Russian air support drove Islamic State out of Palmyra on Sunday, inflicting what the army called a "mortal blow" to militants who seized the city last year and dynamited its ancient temples. (Reporting by Maria Kiselyova, additional reporting by Bozorgmehr Sharafedin in Dubai; Editing by Christian Lowe and Gareth Jones)
MOSCOW, March 28 (Reuters) - Russia's Rosneft, the world's top listed oil company by output, plans to spend around 1 trillion roubles ($15 billion) annually on its investment programme in 2016-2018, using a significant part on maintaining output at its mature fields.

Igor Sechin, Rosneft chief executive, also told President Vladimir Putin on Monday that implementation of the investment programme will allow the company to honour its obligations under long-term oil supply deals, Rosneft said in a statement.

Sechin added that Rosneft operating costs were at 156-166 per barrel of oil equivalent last year, or $2.5-$3.0 per barrel.

($1 = 68.3875 roubles) (Reporting by Katya Golubkova; editing by Vladimir Soldatkin)
Youve got to hand it over to the guys from Moonbeats Asia. After bringing in a slew of revered electronic acts such as Panama, Com Truise, Faris Badwan of The Horrors and Giraffage, the concert promoter has recently announced their very first warehouse party and mini-festival, which will be happening on 16th April.

Held at a spanking new location at Studio Point, 158 Kallang Way, the mini-festival will feature the likes of Canadian indie beatsmith Ryan Hemsworth (no relation to Chris Hemsworth), Moonbeats Alumnus Slow Magic, new Mad Descent chillwave signing Myrne, London-based Singaporean producer et aliae, Attagirl affiliate DuriO and newcomer team cake.

The festival echoes the likes of other warehouse projects, such as last years The Henderson Project, and 2013s widely-attended Super 0.

Tickets are available for purchase at $70 at www.moonbeats.asia, or $240 for a group package of 4 tickets.

Be sure to turn up in your Superga kicks to get a free drink before midnight!

Popspoken Recommends:

Ryan Hemsworth

The widely sought-after Canadian producer has been one of chillwaves hottest commodities, with the ethereal beatsmith completely reworking tunes like Grimes Genesis, Frank Oceans Thinkin Bout You, and Futures Turn on the lights. Be sure to watch out for plenty of hip-hop re-works and remixes during his set, ranging from rap greats like Waka Flocka Flame, to Danny Brown  to the OG himself  Kanye West.

Myrne

Weve been raving about local born-and-bred producer Myrne for some time now, and the Mad Descent signing (yes, Diplos label) is making mad waves with his chilled-out, electronic/trap-infused, zen-like beats. For those clamouring to hear tunes from much-revered EP Softsins, heres your chance to hear one of 2015s best rated tunes. Check him out!

1450702_1260045847346056_8604359358870180815_n

Event Details:

Where: Studio Point, 158 Kallang Way, Singapore 349245

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When: 16 April 2016, Saturday

Time: 9pm-Late

Ticket Pricing: Standard Ticket, $70, $240 for a group package of 4 tickets

==

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This article Ryan Hemsworth, Slow Magic, Myrne To Headline Moonbeats Warehouse Party in Singapore appeared first on Popspoken.
By Jason Lange WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Fresh from Democratic presidential primary wins over the weekend in three U.S. states, Bernie Sanders said on Sunday he had political momentum that could help him win the backing of Democratic power brokers in his race against Hillary Clinton. Sanders easily won nominating contests in Alaska, Washington and Hawaii on Saturday. His latest remarks reflect his plan to chip away at Clinton's commanding lead in the number of delegates needed to win the party's nomination for the November election. Interviewed on Sunday by U.S. broadcasters, Sanders said Democratic "super-delegates," who can change their allegiance, might face pressure to rally behind him because most polls suggest he has a better chance than Clinton of beating a Republican candidate. "Momentum is with us," Sanders, a senator from Vermont, said on CNN'S State of the Union news program. "A lot of these super-delegates may rethink their position with Hillary Clinton." Sanders also criticized Clinton's reliance on wealthy donors to fund her campaign. He cited a fundraising dinner being hosted next month by actor George Clooney, where supporters will have to donate at least $33,400 to attend, or $353,400, nearly seven times the annual median income, if they want "premium" seating. "It is obscene that Secretary Clinton keeps going to big money people to fund her campaign," Sanders told CNN. "Our events, we charge $15 or $50 for people to come. So, it's not a criticism of Clooney. It's a criticism of a corrupt finance system." About 85 percent of the votes at the July 25-28 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, where a party nominee will be chosen to face the Republicans in the Nov. 8 election, are being determined by state nominating contests. The other 15 percent is held by party power brokers who are free to vote as they like, meaning they could hold the key in a tight contest. Super-delegates include party leaders and elected senators, members of the U.S. Congress and governors. After Saturday's contests, the former secretary of state led Sanders by just under 300 pledged delegates in the race for the 2,382 needed to be nominated. Adding in the support of super-delegates, which the party created in the early 1980s to give leaders more control over the nominating process, Clinton had 1,712 delegates to 1,004 for Sanders, according to a tally by RealClearPolitics.com. The U.S. senator from Vermont needs to win up to two-thirds of the remaining delegates to catch Clinton, who will keep piling up delegates even when she loses under a Democratic Party system that awards them proportionally in all states. Sanders is turning his attention to his native New York, where Democratic voters will divide up 247 delegates on April 19th. His campaign manager on Sunday wrote a letter to Clinton's manager insisting that a planned televised debate between the candidates in April be held in the state, which Clinton represented as a U.S. senator for eight years. Jeff Weaver said in the letter that the Clinton campaign had resisted holding the debate in New York. "Is the Secretary concerned about debating before the people who twice elected her to the U.S. Senate?" Weaver wrote. Spokesmen for Clinton did not respond to requests for comment. (Additional reporting by Jonathan Allen and Toni Clarke; Editing by Alan Crosby and Dan Grebler)
A man with an apparent history of causing disturbances at the U.S. Capitol was shot Monday afternoon when he drew a gun inside the complexs visitor center, authorities said.

Capitol police did not name the wounded suspect, who Chief Matthew Verderosa said was previously known to his officers.

But ABC News and other news outlets identified him as Larry Dawson of Tennessee, who interrupted a House session last October by shouting that he was a prophet of God.

**EDITORS NOTE: Suspect's face was slightly obscured digitally at the request of DC Fire and EMS Department.** WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28, 2016: Police and EMS personnel transport the person believed to be the gunman away from the shooting scene at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on March 28, 2016 in Washington, D.C. The lone gunman was shot by police and taken into custody and a female civilian was struck by bullet fragments and transported to the hospital. (Photo by Ricky Carioti/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

On Monday, Verderosa said, the man set off a metal detector before pulling a weapon from his clothing at about 2:40 p.m. At least one officer fired, striking the suspect. No officers were injured, but a bystander suffered minor wounds when she was hit by flying shrapnel.

It has not been determined how many officers fired their weapons, the chief told reporters.

Verderosa said investigators believe the man was acting alone and was not tied to a terrorist group.

No reason to believe this is anything other than a criminal act, he said.

The suspect was undergoing surgery at a Washington hospital late Monday afternoon. Verderosa said the mans condition wasnt immediately known.

One weapon was recovered at the scene, Verderosa said.

Slideshow: U.S. Capitol Visitor Center shooting>>>

Mondays shooting sent dozens of Capitol staffers and visitors scrambling for cover.

Diane Bilo of Cincinnati said her husband heard a single shot in the Capitol visitors center and a clip of bullets being fired.  Bart Jansen (@ganjansen) March 28, 2016

The Capitol building and White House were locked down for more than an hour as more police responded to the scene. The chief confirmed that officers had located what they believe is the suspects vehicle.

Investigators swarming this silver Dodge pickup in the Capitol parking lot. @wusa9 pic.twitter.com/BN24wQLbxP  Garrett Haake (@GarrettHaake) March 28, 2016

Though Congress is currently in recess, there were tens of thousands of people in Washington on Monday during a typically busy spring break and tourist season. An estimated 35,000 people were expected to visit the White House for its annual Easter Egg Roll. Shortly after the lockdown at the White House was lifted, several hundred tourists were seen moving freely outside the fence and taking selfies as if nothing had happened.

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The Capitol Visitor Center opened in 2008. It is located on the east end of the National Mall between the Capitol and the U.S. Supreme Court.

Capitol Visitor Center was constructed in response to shooting in Capitol that killed two police officers in 1998.  carl hulse (@hillhulse) March 28, 2016

The U.S. Capitol Police have been on heightened alert since last weeks terror attacks in Brussels. There was an active-shooter drill at the Capitol earlier Monday.

Gun laws in Washington are among the strictest in the nation. Until 2008, handguns were banned in the District, and until 2014, the carrying of open and concealed weapons was prohibited. (Open carry remains prohibited.)

Yahoo News editor Dylan Stableford and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

Jason Sickles is a national reporter for Yahoo News. Follow him on Twitter (@jasonsickles).

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New York (AFP) - Starwood Hotels & Resorts said Monday it was weighing an improved takeover bid from a group led by Chinese insurer Anbang that trumps its agreed deal with Marriott International.

In the latest turn in the bidding war for the US hotel operator, Starwood said the consortium led by Anbang Insurance gave a non-binding offer on Saturday of $82.75 per share, an all-cash deal valued at $14 billion.

That tops US firm Marriott's improved bid which the Starwood board is still recommending, Starwood said in a statement.

Starwood accepted Marriott's $13.6 billion cash-and-stock takeover offer on March 21 that would create the world's largest hotel company.

Starwood said that it had received an improved offer from Anbang on Saturday of $81 per share but that following discussions, the consortium sweetened it again, to $82.75.

Starwood said the consortium's offer is "reasonably likely" to lead to a "superior proposal'" as defined in its merger agreement with Marriott, and it was continuing to discuss "non-price terms" with the Anbang-led group, which includes China-based Primavera Capital and US private-equity investor JC Flowers & Co.

Marriott, in a separate statement Monday, reaffirmed its commitment to the Starwood acquisition, saying it was "confident that the previously announced amended merger agreement is the best course for both companies."

Marriott warned Starwood stockholders they should consider whether the Anbang-led consortium would be able to close the proposed transaction, "with a particular focus on the certainty of the consortium's financing and the timing of any required regulatory approvals."

Starwood and Marriott's shareholders meetings to consider their merger agreement on Monday were immediately adjourned until April 8.

Starwood shares closed off their highs, up almost 2.0 percent at $83.75. Marriott surged 3.9 percent to $71.34.

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An Anbang acquisition of Starwood would be the largest Chinese takeover of a US company, exceeding pork producer WH Group's purchase in 2013 of Smithfield Foods in a $7.1 billion deal.

With assets of $254 billion, the deep-pocketed Chinese insurer is on a shopping spree in the US hotel sector after scooping up the landmark Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Manhattan for nearly $2 billion in 2014.

Last week, it announced the $6.5 billion purchase of Strategic Hotels & Resorts, 16 luxury properties in the US including the JW Marriott Essex House in Manhattan and the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego.

- Hotel bids heat up -

Starwood initially had agreed in November to a tie-up with Marriott, forging the world's largest hotel chain. Marriott has more than 4,400 properties worldwide, with a portfolio of brands including The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and Gaylord Hotels. Starwood has 1,270 properties.

On March, 18 Starwood announced it favored the Anbang-led group's $78.00 per share offer, or $13.2 billion, improved by $2 per share.

But a week ago, it said it had accepted Marriott's improved bid of $21.00 per share in cash and 0.80 shares of Marriott, or $13.6 billion, spurning Anbang.

Their agreed merger would combine Marriott's more than 4,400 properties worldwide, with a portfolio of brands including The Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and Gaylord Hotels, with Starwood's 1,270 properties in 100 countries and the Sheraton, Westin and W brands, among others.

The combination would help Marriott expand in China, India and Europe, regions where Starwood has a strong presence.

Marriott estimates the merger will yield $250 million in annual cost synergies within two years after closing, expected by mid-2016.

If Starwood backs out of the deal, it must pay Marriott a $450 million break-up fee.
Steven Tyler has signed with WME in all areas, The Hollywood Reporter and Billboard have exclusively learned. He was previously at CAA, while Paradigm continues to represent Aerosmith for touring.

Tyler's lead vocals have helped make Aerosmith the best-selling American rock band of all time, with more than 150 million records sold worldwide, and qualified him for a spot at the American Idol judges' table for seasons 10 and 11. In addition to creating classic hits including "Dream On," "Walk This Way," "Cryin" and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," Aerosmith won rock performance Grammys for "Pink," "Crazy," "Livin' on the Edge" and "Janie's Got a Gun." The latter song inspired Tyler to create Janie's Fund last November. The foundation will partner with Youth Villages to fund programs that treat sexually abused children, particularly girls.

After 15 studio albums with Aerosmith, Tyler will release his first solo album later this year. The still-untitled project, from country label Dot Records/Big Machine, will include last year's single "Love Is Your Name," written by Eric Paslay and Lindsey Lee, as well as January's "Red, White and You," which the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer penned with Nathan Barlowe, Levi Hummon and Jon Vella.

Tyler continues to be managed by Rebecca Lambrecht Warfield and Larry Rudolph at Maverick.
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - A man suspected of laundering money for jailed drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was detained in southwestern Mexico, and faces extradition to the United States, Mexican authorities said on Sunday. Juan Manuel Alvarez, who was arrested in Oaxaca state, has ties to an international money-laundering network that spans Mexico, Colombia, Panama and the United States, Mexican police said via their official Twitter account. A separate statement from Mexico's National Security Commision, which coordinates security forces, said Alvarez is sought over money laundering allegations in the United States. Describing him as the "principal financial operator" for an undisclosed drug trafficking group, the statement said he headed another criminal organization that operates mainly in the western Mexican state of Jalisco. That state is home to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (JNG), whose gunmen shot down an army helicopter in the state last May, claiming the lives of six military personnel. The JNG have historic ties to Guzman's Sinaloa Cartel. Guzman, who escaped twice from Mexican maximum-security prisons, was recaptured in Mexico in January and is seeking to speed up his extradition to the United States in the hope he will be treated better in prison there. As head of the Sinaloa cartel, Guzman is accused of leading a bloody war against rival gangs and smuggling vast quantities of illegal drugs into the United States. (Reporting by Alexandra Alper; Editing by Peter Cooney and Simon Cameron-Moore)
TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd (TSMC), the world's top contract chip maker, said on Monday it has signed an agreement with the Nanjing City Government to invest $3 billion building an advanced wafer manufacturing facility in China. The announcement comes after TSMC said in December it planned to set up its first wholly owned advanced fabrication plant in China with a $3 billion investment, highlighting the growing importance of the Chinese market for semiconductor giants. "With our 12-inch fab and our design service center in Nanjing, we aim to provide closer support to customers as well as expand our business opportunities in China in step with the rapid growth of the Chinese semiconductor market over the last several years," said TSMC Chairman Morris Chang in a statement. "We look forward to stronger collaboration with our customers to further expand our market share in China." The move underscores how TSMC aims to go it alone to protect its technological lead even as rivals, namely from China, are busy buying smaller players. TSMC had urged authorities to allow 12-inch facilities, which use more advanced technology processes than 8-inch plants, to be wholly owned out of concern for intellectual property protection. TSMC already has a wholly owned 8-inch chipmaking plant near Shanghai. Located in Nanjing, China, the planned capacity of the new plant will be 20,000 12-inch wafers per month and includes the construction of a design service center, TSMC has said, adding production will begin in the second half of 2018. China views self-ruled Taiwan as a renegade province and has not ruled out the use of force to bring it under its control, although relations have improved in recent years. Taiwan has restricted manufacturing activities of its prized semiconductor sector in China, amid political tension between the neighbors. However, competition from China's fast-growing, though fledgling chip industry has put pressure on Taiwanese companies to widen their mainland footprint. (Reporting by Faith Hung; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
Taliban insurgents fired a barrage of rockets at Afghanistan's newly built parliament complex in Kabul on Monday, as top security officials including the intelligence chief prepared to address the assembly.

Multiple rockets smashed into the sprawling compound, blowing out windows in one building. But no one was reported hurt and the parliament session continued uninterrupted.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid saying the rockets inflicted heavy casualties.

The militant group is known to exaggerate battlefield claims.

"While we discuss insecurity around the country, it is worrying that the enemy is able to strike the parliament in the heart of the capital," lawmaker Mohammad Abdou said during the session broadcast live on TV.

Taj Mohammad Jahed, the caretaker minister of interior who was due to address parliament along with the intelligence chief on the worsening security in Afghanistan, was apologetic.

"This should not have happened," Jahed said. "I will order new security measures for the parliament complex."

The swanky complex, built by India at an estimated cost of $90 million, was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December.

Last June Taliban militants attacked the old parliament building, sending lawmakers running for cover in chaotic scenes relayed live on television

The attack ended two hours later when all seven attackers, including a suicide car bomber, were gunned down by Afghan forces.
By Aukkarapon Niyomyat and Panarat Thepgumpanat BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand's election commission said on Monday it expected 80 percent of eligible voters to turn out for an August 7 referendum on a controversial constitution that critics have vowed to boycott. The referendum, pushed back from July, will be Thailand's first return to the ballot-box since junta chief Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power in a May 2014 coup, following months of political unrest. Critics of the draft charter, who include the main political parties, say it will enshrine the military's influence and is unlikely to resolve bitter political disputes. "Around 51 million people have the right to vote. The turnout is expected to be 80 percent," Somchai Srisuthiyakorn, a member of the Election Commission, told Reuters. Somchai said around 57 percent of eligible voters turned out the last time Thailand voted on a new constitution in August 2007, following a 2006 coup that ousted populist Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. But he gave no reason for the expected higher turnout. Thailand has been politically fractured for more than a decade, split roughly along north-south lines between supporters of the government ousted in the 2014 coup and the military-backed royalist elite. Constitution rewrites have done little to end the country's decades-long cycle of coups. The current draft constitution, if approved, would be the 20th drafted since Thailand became a constitutional monarchy in 1932. Critics say they will boycott the August vote. "We will tell people that this constitution draft is bad," said Samart Kaewmechai, a member of the Puea Thai Party that swept to victory in July 2011, only to be toppled in the May 2014 coup. "Rejecting a constitution is a right and is not against the law," he told Reuters. Still, preparations have begun for the August referendum. "We will use Army Reserve Force students as a tool to create understanding about the contents of the draft constitution and distribute it all over the country," said Somchai. "We have told them to do this in a neutral manner." The Election Commission has said it will not try to influence opinion on the constitution, and would set up debates between groups in favor and those against. (Writing by Amy Sawitta Lefevre; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Three heavy attack helicopters have left Moscow's Hmeymim airbase in Syria for Russia, Russian state TV channel Rossiya-24 reported on Monday. Two Mi-24 and one Mi-35 helicopters left the base onboard the heavy Antonov-124 transport airplane, along with some engineers and technical staff. This month Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the bulk of the Russian military contingent in Syria to be pulled out after five months of air strikes, saying Moscow had achieved most of its objectives. On Sunday, he congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on regaining the city of Palmyra. Rossiya-24 showed a Russian officer at the Hmeymim base saying that Moscow's forces remaining in Syria were enough "to repel at any moment any attack and accomplish any military tasks". (Reporting by Maria Kiselyova; Writing by Dmitry Solovyov)
BERLIN (Reuters) - Turkey's Foreign Ministry summoned Germany's ambassador last week over a satirical broadcast by German television station NDR, Spiegel magazine's online edition reported on Monday. The ambassador, Martin Erdmann, was called to the ministry last Tuesday over the NDR broadcast on March 17 that featured a two-minute satirical song mocking Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, Spiegel Online reported. The German Foreign Ministry declined to comment. Turkish officials could not immediately be reached to comment. The report comes at a time when German Chancellor Angela Merkel is actively seeking closer ties with Turkey, a candidate for European Union membership, whose help she needs in tackling Europe's migrant crisis. Merkel led efforts to seal a controversial EU deal with Turkey earlier this month intended to halt illegal migration flows to Europe in return for financial and political rewards for Ankara. Erdogan has harshly criticized Western diplomats after several showed up on Friday to support Can Dundar, editor-in-chief of the Cumhuriyet newspaper, and his colleague Erdem Gul on the first day of their trial in Istanbul. Erdogan is known for his sensitivity to criticism. Turkish prosecutors have opened nearly 2,000 cases against people for insulting Erdogan since he became president 18 months ago, the country's justice minister said this month. They include cartoonists, academics and even schoolchildren. (Reporting by Christina Amann; Writing by Paul Carrel; Editing by Gareth Jones)
Washington (AFP) - Turkey and the United States agreed Monday that a political settlement may be possible this year in Cyprus, the Mediterranean island divided for four decades.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu met US Secretary of State John Kerry in Washington, and both diplomats were upbeat about chances for a deal.

"We have also some good news from the Eastern part of the Mediterranean, I mean Cyprus," Cavusoglu told reporters ahead of their meeting.

"We are hoping to reach a settlement in Cyprus in 2016. Turkey's side is ready," he said, confirming for the first time that a deal is possible this year.

Cavusoglu said talks on the issue had slowed during preparations for May's legislative elections in the Greek-speaking, independent south of the island.

"But after the elections we are hoping to reach a settlement and the United States is giving its full support to this process as well as Turkey," he said.

Kerry said he "couldn't agree more."

"We are very deeply committed to and involved in the talks on Cyprus," he said, adding that both he and Vice President Joe Biden has recently visited.

"We have met with the folks on both sides as well as individual countries and we are going keep pushing very, very hard towards a resolution of the Cyprus crisis."

In January, Greek Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci said a deal was possible in 2016.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops occupied its northern third in response to an Athens-inspired coup seeking union with Greece.

Long-stalled UN-brokered peace talks were relaunched last May.

The goal is a unified, federal Cyprus but any deal would involve both sides making compromises on territorial and property rights.

And both peoples would need to ratify the treaty in referendums.

A referendum in 2004 saw a majority of Turkish Cypriots back reunification while more than three quarters of Greek Cypriots voted against it.
Miami (AFP) - A group of 25 Cuban immigrants were rescued early Monday after reaching an island in the Florida Keys in the latest of a wave of crossings from the communist-ruled nation, local authorities said.

The Cubans were spotted on Cook Island by a passing boater and personnel from the local sheriff's office ferried them to Little Torch Key and turned them over to US Customs and Border Patrol agents.

"They were all in good condition," the Monroe County sheriff's office said.

The 24 men and a woman, who will be allowed to remain in the United States under Cold War-era immigration laws, were the latest in a growing surge of Cubans making the dangerous voyage.

Many are risking their lives in the attempt for fear that the normalization of US-Cuban relations undertaken by Presidents Barack Obama and Raul Castro presages an end to the special status granted Cuban immigrants under the law.

On Saturday, the US Coast Guard intercepted a makeshift boat carrying 26 Cubans, including seven with gunshot wounds.

Two of the wounded said they were fired on by a group of assailants who had tried to take the raft from them as they were setting off from Cuba.

Six of the wounded were taken to hospitals in the Florida Keys and Miami, and will be allowed to stay in the country, having touched dry land, a requirement for benefitting from US laws granting Cubans a fast-track to legal residency in the United States.

The rest will be repatriated to Cuba.

On March 18, a cruise ship picked up a group of 18 severely dehydrated Cuban immigrants off the coast of Florida, but nine others died during the attempted crossing.

More than 43,000 Cubans entered the United States by sea or land during the 2015 fiscal year ending in September, a number not seen in decades.

Since October, more than 2,500 Cubans have tried to reach US shores in rafts and makeshift boats, according to the Coast Guard.
The U.S. Defense Department gave away nearly $1 billion of property to the Afghan government over the course of five years as the Pentagon worked to shrink its footprint in the war-ravaged country, a new government watchdog fact sheet states.

Between January 2010 and February 2015, the agency donated $858 million worth of property under the Foreign Excess Real Property (FERP) program -- mostly in the form of hundreds of bases that ranged from small outposts to large bases that cant be sold to the government in Kabul, according to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR). Real property is defined as land, structures and facilities, improvements, fixtures, and related personal property.

Related: US Taxpayers Paid Millions for Shoddy, Unsafe Buildings in Afghanistan

Of the 715 bases the U.S. used over the course of the war, 391 were turned over to the Afghan government, with the lions share  57 percent  transferred to the National Army, SIGAR found. The Afghan National Police received 30 percent of the donated bases, while others were given to offices within the countrys Defense and Interior ministries.

The U.S. cant sell excess real estate to Kabul and if a site isnt transferred to another federal agency or office within the military it can be abandoned, deconstructed or charitably donated, SIGAR states.

The military can decide to dismantle a base if its in dangers of falling into enemy hands, though sometimes it makes more fiscal sense to transfer it.

And the U.S. doesnt own the market on goodwill, according to SIGAR. When NATO formally ended its mission in volatile Helmand province, around $236 million worth of property was given to the Afghan government, while only $39 million worth was disassembled.

Related: Where Did $800 Million in Afghan Aid Go? The Pentagon Shrugs Its Shoulders

The Pentagon did close 219 of its bases, the fact sheet states, and the total depreciated value of bases that once supported U.S. troops but that Washington has since abandoned or destroyed amounts to about $48 million.

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Last year President Obama scrapped his plan to reduce the military footprint in the country to a nominal embassy presence in Kabul by the end of 2016.

Instead, the administration will keep 5,500 troops and a small number of bases  SIGAR says 12 U.S.-operated bases remain open  into 2017 to continue training and providing support to Afghan security forces.

Top Reads from The Fiscal Times:
Washington (AFP) - The US State Department has confirmed the deaths of two more Americans in the Brussels suicide attacks, bringing the total number to four.

"We can confirm the deaths of two additional US citizens in Brussels, and we express our deepest condolences to their loved ones," a State Department official told AFP.

The department had reported Friday that two Americans were killed and that additional US citizens were missing.

"We have no further information to share out of respect for the families during this difficult time," the official said Sunday.

An American couple that had been reported missing, Justin and Stephanie Shults, were confirmed dead by an employer and family on Saturday. It was unclear whether they were among the four reported dead by the State Department.

Tuesday's attacks on the Brussels airport and metro system, claimed by the Islamic State group, killed 31 people and wounded 340.

The State Department official said the US embassy in Brussels was providing consular assistance.
Washington (AFP) - The United States on Monday welcomed the victory of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad's Russian-backed forces over the Islamic State group in the historic city of Palmyra, despite concern over his brutal record.

"We do think that it's a good thing that Daesh no longer controls it," State Department spokesman John Kirby said, using his department's preferred term for the jihadist group.

"That said, we're also mindful, of course, that the best hope for Syria and the Syrian people is not an expansion of Bashar al-Assad's ability to tyrannize the Syrian people."

Backed by Russia, Syrian government and allied fighters overran Palmyra on Sunday after nearly 10 months in which the Islamic State group held sway in the city.

Washington is leading its own coalition campaign against the IS group, but has also accused Assad of fomenting chaos by provoking civil war in Syria.

Russia, in contrast, has sent warplanes and advisers to assist Assad's battle against both the armed opposition and extremists such as the IS group.

In the case of Palmyra, however, Kirby welcomed the battle as a setback for a common foe.

"The short answer is yes, we think it's a good thing," Kirby said, speaking for Secretary of State John Kerry, who met Russian leaders in Moscow last week.

"I wasn't aware that there was confusion before, but there was no confusion on the secretary's part. In his mind, this was a good thing.

"We can't forget what Daesh did in this place; destroying our common heritage -- human history -- beheading a renowned archeologist who was responsible for maintaining those sites."
[Warning: This story contains spoilers from Sunday's "East" episode of AMC's The Walking Dead and the comic book series it is based on.]

As AMC's The Walking Dead prepares to introduce dreaded villain Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) in next week's season-six finale, what seemed like a throwaway scene in Sunday's penultimate episode may hold the key to season seven.

Read More: Why 'The Walking Dead' Should Kill Glenn This Season

As Morgan (Lennie James) and Rick (Andrew Lincoln) searched for Carol (Melissa McBride), the duo crossed paths with a briefly seen man searching for his horse at a farm.

While Rick attempts to take a shot at the guy - he no longer takes any chances - Morgan pushes his arm and the mystery man clad in protective armor runs away (seen above and below).

Rick takes note that the guy was using a spear clearly manufactured by the Hilltop community and believes him to be a member of Negan's savage Saviors, but Morgan isn't so quick to write the guy off as the enemy.

"Maybe he's from the Hilltop, maybe he's from somewhere else," Morgan says. And Morgan may have it right.

For eagle-eyed fans of Robert Kirkman's comic series, the mystery man may belong to a community known as the Kingdom. The Kingdom, like the Hilltop and Alexandria, is another community of survivors - and they detest Negan and the Saviors.

Read more Norman Reedus on That Walking Dead Cliffhanger

The Kingdom is overseen by a George Clinton-like leader named Ezekiel, a former zookeeper who oversees the community with Shiva, his pet tiger. (Yes, a tiger.) The residents of the Kingdom dress in protective armor - and serve as knights to the so-called "King Ezekiel" at a transformed high school.

Members of the Kingdom, like those of the Hilltop and Alexandria, do not wish to be a part of Negan's reign of terror as the f-bomb-dropping baddie uses fear, intimidation and violence to take half of the neighboring communities' food, supplies and weapons in exchange for safety (from the Saviors).

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The man in protective armor in Sunday's episode may be the biggest hint to date that The Walking Dead's world expansion will include the Kingdom - and likely Ezekiel and (hopefully) Shiva (both below).

"There's not a great chance but if it were happening, I wouldn't tell you either," showrunner Scott M. Gimple told THR ahead of the midseason premiere regarding whether Ezekiel and Shiva might be introduced this season. "The world is going to be expanding in a lot of different directions."

Introducing The Kingdom serves as a next logical step given where the AMC series is in the comics' run. Negan makes his debut in the landmark 100th issue, coming face-to-face with Rick, Michonne, Carl, Glenn, Maggie, Sophia and Heath as they are on their way to the Hilltop while the Saviors plan their attack on Alexandria. That would match up with where the series is - with Rick and company likely taking Maggie, who is on the verge of losing her baby, to the Hilltop to see the ob-gyn there as Daryl, Michonne, Glenn and Rosita are held by Dwight and the Saviors.

The Kingdom also will help fortify what could be a massive army between the residents of Alexandria, the Hilltop and the Kingdom, who could unite to bring down Negan and the Saviors in a take on the comics' "All Out War" arc.

Read More: 'Walking Dead' Finale Teasers: Is Negan on Morgan's Trail?

What are your theories? Sound off in the comments section below. For more Walking Dead coverage, go to THR.com/WalkingDead. The 90-minute season-six finale of The Walking Dead airs on Sunday at 9 p.m. on AMC. Stay tuned to THR for more coverage.

Read More: Here's What to Expect From Negan on 'The Walking Dead'
If career advisers wanted to get rich, they might hope to get a nickel for every time they heard: So I want to go to law school, but I dont want to be a lawyer. Ah, law schools, those havens for the liberal-arts-educated seeking their elusive passions. Common wisdom these days suggests the era of English majors shelling out for a law degree to compensate for their unemployability is officially bygone. Law school is too expensive; jobs are too hard to come by; and the robots can do the legal grunt work of a first-year associate for less than 10 percent the cost. But theres an industry where the future for a young lawyer may be bright: the gilded tech world.

The general-counsel role  the top attorney at a company  once consisted of interpreting laws already on the books and handling shit storms that might arise. Today, though? For some technology companies on the bleeding edge, theres little common law to pull from. Much of Silicon Valleys dream work is not really clearly governed by any well-defined existing bodies of law, says Vivek Krishnamurthy, clinical instructor at Harvard Law Schools Cyberlaw clinic. Which means that knowing the law might help you write the law. For now, experts say a small yet growing group of young lawyers are stepping into tech; of the nearly 40,000 jobs reported by the class of 2014, fewer than 230 were in non-law technology companies  an option that didnt really exist for law graduates a decade ago, according to the National Association for Law Placement. But more lawyers may be headed that way as the job market slowly improves and fewer folks enter JD programs.

Technological power is compounding on itself so rapidly that the law cant possibly keep up.

An example of the new tech-law career path might come from Belinda Johnson, the former deputy general counsel at Yahoo. At Yahoo, she faced down the early days of online-content regulations over such matters as streaming music, for instance, way before Spotify versus T-Swift. Its even more pronounced at her job today  shes the chief business affairs and legal officer at Airbnb  and was hired uncommonly early for a lawyer at a young startup, because, as she says, Airbnbs founders were incredibly cognizant of the regulatory challenges that lay ahead. Count among those challenges questions of taxation and a labyrinth of rental laws worldwide. Johnson tells me her job feels a lot more like policy setting than precedent parsing.

It makes sense: Technological power is compounding on itself so rapidly that the law cant possibly keep up. Those who have a few areas down pat will be in high demand. Which ones? Privacy, obviously. Employment  see: contract-work platforms like Uber or TaskRabbit. Plus copyright  think YouTube, which had far fewer restrictions on uploading than its competitor Vimeo. According to a Quora post by one of Vimeos founding partners, YouTubes willingness to actually engage in the copyright game helped the company to its billion-dollar-plus acquisition, leaving Vimeo behind.

You can also include the broad category of international law. A company that distributes its wares on the web rather than depending on ships and highways and the like can go from local to global in a snap, explains Michael Samway, former vice president and deputy general counsel at Yahoo. Take the case LICRA v. Yahoo in 2000, when a French court heard anti-racist group LICRAs complaints that the sale of Nazi memorabilia on Yahoos auctions was illegal. Though a French court argued Yahoo had to follow national law  since, after all, French citizens could view Yahoo on French soil  an American court said nay. U.S. courts went with the old-hat international law standards, finding that since Yahoo was headquartered in the U.S., it wouldnt be held responsible for every law of every country where someone used it.

But perhaps even more useful than niche subject-matter expertise, says Krishnamurthy, is a self-regulatory instinct. Meaning asking not only whether a product is violating an existing law, but also, whether it could hit trouble down the road. Each bit and byte that goes into building the hardware and software of the information age contains in it all kinds of decisions, Krishnamurthy explains. You do the math: An attorney on call early on might help a smart founder choose how much copyrighted material her app should try to mess with. An attorney could convince a budding drone company to fly at a certain height so that different airspace laws apply. And its that attorney who might be thanked thrice over in stock options when it turns out that the competition forgot to consider legal nuisance.

Still, before you rush to drop almost $200,000 on a grad degree  roughly the cost of a private law school plus living expenses, according to the American Bar Association  you might want to ask how much youre entering the stately halls of advocacy to learn its ins and outs or to learn how to learn, you liberal arts kiddo, you. For one: Youre taking quite the risk, opting for more school when your peers in Startuplandia are increasingly quitting halfway through undergrad and salaries for those on the cutting-est of edges  early-stage startups  tend to be lower than your first-year-corporate associate paycheck.

Either way, if youre interested in drawing up the law of the future, you might also consider the words of one Lawrence Lessig  democracy activist and brief 2016 presidential contender  code, goes the title of an essay he wrote back in 2000, is law. And not the other way around.

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Republic Bank withdraws appeal

At a brief hearing before Justices of Appeal Allan Mendonca, Gregory Smith and Judith Jones, last week, lawyers for RBL indicated that the bank was withdrawing its appeal of Justice Joan Charles ruling on April 14, 2014. Keith Malchan, of Tunapuna, successfully proved his negligence lawsuit against his employer, although medical evidence in the case showed that he was predisposed to the illness. His lawyer, Larry Lalla, had argued that although his client had a risk of contracting the disease, the bank was still liable as it was his employers negligence that cause Malchan to be exposed to the stimuli which triggered the disease. It was Malchans case that the bank, as his employer, had a duty of care towards him, which it breached by forcing him to work in the unsafe conditions.

His attorney Larry Lalla contended that the bank should be held liable for the discomfort Malchan suffered through contracting the disease, even though it was not possible for the banks management to reasonably foresee it as a consequence of its renovation works at the branch.

The disease, Sjogren Syndrome, is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the bodys white blood cells destroy the exocrine glands, which produce saliva and tears. Symptoms include swollen salivary glands, dryness of the eye and mouth, joint pains, persistent dry cough and prolonged fatigue.

There is no known cure. The judge had ruled that the bank was liable. According to his evidence in his case, Malchan, who had been employed with the bank for more than 30 years, had gone on vacation in August 2006 and when he returned to work at the Tunapuna West branch of the bank in the middle of the month, the building was undergoing renovations.

During a hearing for assessing Malchans compensation in the Port-of-Spain High Court,Justice Charles awarded him $400,000 for his pain, suffering and loss of amenities, $1,275,552 representing his loss of income and an annual profit-sharing benefit and $230,098 for his past and future medical bills.

Charles also ordered that the bank pay Malchan three percent interest on the damages for the seven-year period between when he filed the claim and won it.
Carrera prison break foiled

Newsday understands the two men had planned to escape during the early hours of Sunday via a boat which had been contracted to take them to safety once they had reached the shores of the island prison undetected. This information was passed on to the prison authorities and Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard (TTCG), which resulted in a lockdown of the prison on Saturday night, with TTCG officers on standby to assist prison authorities in ensuring that the escape plan was foiled. The lockdown remained in effect until sometime yesterday evening and prison sources told Newsday that roundthe- clock surveillance measures have been put in place to ensure that all prisoners are accounted for.
Shield for spies

The Whistleblower Protection Bill 2015 was tabled in Parliament last November and referred to a Joint Select Committee for further examination. A second interim report in relation to the committees deliberations  which detailed concerns by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and the Integrity Commission  was tabled in Parliament two Fridays ago by Attorney General Faris Al Rawi, who chairs the committee .

The report notes the Police Service raised the issue of how the legislation  which proposes that employees who breach confidentiality terms in their contract of employment be shielded from legal action  would relate to the Strategic Services Agency (SSA) Act and the Interception of Communications Act .

The committee replied by stating the provisions of the new legislation would supersede current confidentiality restrictions in place on law enforcement officers working under these agencies .

The issue is addressed in an appendix of the second interim report which summarises, in table form, the views of various stakeholders in relation to the Whistleblower Bill. Of Clause 6 (6) of the bill, the Police Service  according to the table of comments  observed that, This clause makes a contractual provision voidable that seeks to preclude a disclosure; however, there are specific pieces of legislations that preclude making disclosures to persons who are not authorized to receive same under the Act. Specifically, the Interception of Communication Act Chapter 15:08 and the Strategic Services Agency Chapter 15:06, which contain confidentiality clauses. BILL SUPERSEDES SSA ACT The Committees reply to this concern is stated as, The whistle- blowing Bill will supersede the Secrecy provisions in those Acts, provided it is a proper disclosure, the whistleblower will have immunity. The SSA Act regulates the operations of that surveillance body, which now includes the National Operations Centre. The sanctioned powers of the SSA are due to be widened under separate legal proposals in Parliament. Currently, the SSA Act stipulates that all members of the SSA must swear to, not divulge any information ... to any unauthorised person, orally or in writing, without the previous sanction of the Director. The Interception of Communications Act authorises the Chief of Defence Staff, the Commissioner of Police or the Director of the SSA or any person authorised by them to tap communications following legal procedure .

The Interception of Communications Act imposes a wall of secrecy on sanctioned interceptions, even covering legal processes relating to it and the handling of materials for the purpose of furthering enquiries .

The Police Service appears to have gone so far as to call for separate regulations to govern the process of whistleblowing by law enforcement officials .

Provisions should be made with respect to disclosures that deal with matters of national security, official military secrets and classified information, states one summary of the Police Services comments .

Special procedures and safeguards for reporting should be developed and included in the supporting Regulations of the Act. In response to this, the JSC replied, The Committee noted this point and noted also that Parliament was in the process of drafting an Official Secrets Act .

As such, the Committee decided that further discussions should be held to determine whether it should be borne out in regulations or the primary legislation. The committee is chaired by Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi and includes Minister of National Security Edmund Dillon, Minister in the Office of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Stuart Young, Opposition Senator Wade Mark and Independent Senator Sophia Chote SC .

In response to a comment by the Integrity Commission over the phrasing of Clause 6 (5), the Committee said it has agreed to remove that provision, which would have protected whistleblowing MPs from disciplinary procedures in Parliament .

L E G I S L A T I O N WONT STAND UP TO SCRUTINY In January, the committee asked Chief Parliamentary Counsel Ian Macintyre to review the constitutionality of the bill. He deemed some aspects of it likely to be struck down as unlawful in court, even if passed with a special majority .

However, the Chief Parliamentary Counsel found the clause protecting employees from action by employers  which includes public authorities  possibly acceptable on a case-bycase basis, suggesting the protections of the bill might not necessarily supercede confidential contract terms automatically .

It will be for the courts to decide whether in the circumstances of the case the contractual provision should be enforced or be declared void, Macintyre states in his legal opinion, attached to the same second interim report .

But of the bills protection of whistleblowers as a whole, Macintyre expresses the view that the legislation will not stand judicial scrutiny. He states, the Bill permits personal and confidential information to be obtained in contravention of the criminal law... .

This means, for example, that the Bill protects a person who unlawfully obtains personal information by hacking an individuals computer system or email account and discloses such information cannot be prosecuted. The Committee has asked for  and received  more time to complete its work and is moving to retain external experts to examine all of the issues that have been raised. A new deadline of April 29 has been set. As recently as this month, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley stated the Government hopes to pass legislation to protect whistleblowers within the year
Every retrenchment must be reported

Section 4 of the Retrenchment and Severance Benefits Act states employers need only notify the Ministry if it dismisses five or more workers. In an interview with Newsday, Baptiste-Primus said one of the proposed amendments would relate to the current rules which state that employers need only file retrenchment notices when they take place in batches of five or more.

We only have the numbers for retrenchment involving five of more workers, the Minister said. The picture that emerges, therefore, is not a complete one. We need to capture all of the workers who have been retrenched.

That is definitely one aspect of the legislative reform. That change would be a simple one to make. The Minister said some loose estimates suggest the number of persons not caught by the current reporting mechanism may be as much as 1,500 and that the overall retrenchment since last year could well be 5,000.

But these are just guesstimates as the data is not available, she said. Problems in collating figures prompted the Ministry of Labour to launch a voluntary National Retrenchment Register Database this month.

Some 8,400 people lost their jobs in the third quarter of last year (July to September), according to a Labour Force Bulletin published this month by the Central Statistical Office. Furthermore, the Labour Minister has told Parliament that 846 workers have been retrenched or terminated in the private sector since last September under the current reporting mechanisms.

However, this figure did not include batches of less than five or cases of staggered retrenchment.

Nor did it include the dismissal of some 200 Centrin workers, about 644 ArcelorMittal workers and 800 workers of OAS Construtora.

Another legal reform could involve placing workers higher up on the list of creditors at insolvent companies.

Further proposals will also involve consideration of whether any amendments brought would have retrospective effect to cover job losses already incurred.

Baptiste-Primus said she will engage labour groups and commercial chambers on these and other matters within two weeks and set a deadline of three weeks for their submissions.

By the end of May there should be enough comments from stakeholders for us to approach the Attorney General on these matters, the Minister said.

She said the question of whether one bill is brought or several pieces of amending legislation tabled would be among the matters for the Attorney General to provide guidance on. The Minister is also due to hold talks with unions and stakeholders on April 8 and April 13 on the issue of reducing the States dependency on contract labour.
De la Bastide on MPs hiring family AG should ask the court

The question of the hiring practices of MPs in relation to their constituency offices emerged in the wake of confirmation that Port-of-Spain South MP Marlene McDonald hired her spouse during the 2010 to 2015 period and four UNC MPs employed relatives from September last year, including Opposition Leader Kamla Persad- Bissessar, Princes Town MP Barry Padarath, Mayaro MP Rushton Paray and Caroni Central MP Bhoe Tewarie.

New arrangements came into effect in 2015, widening the definition of banned persons from immediate family to include categories such as cousins.

Parliament officials have said the guidelines and arrangements are not rules or laws and MPs face no sanctions for not sticking to them. The Speaker of the House of Representatives Bridgid Annisette- George is said to be looking into the matter and questionnaires were issued to MPs this month.

However, some have questioned whether the provisions of the Integrity in Public Life Act  which bans the use of public office for private gain  might apply.

Section 24 of the Act states a person in public life should not use his office for the improper advancement of his own or his familys personal or financial interests or the interest of any person. There is, however, no stipulation in the legislation as to how widely the word family is to be interpreted.

I think brother, sister, husband, and wife are clearly within any usage of the word family, de la Bastide said.

And probably uncles, aunts and first cousins.

But it is a grey area and I think it is an issue which needs to be addressed and clarified one way or the other. The former President of the Caribbean Court of Justice said there is one avenue by which this can occur.

I think the question needs to be given an authoritative answer from somewhere, presumably the court, de la Bastide said. The Attorney General could take out a motion to get an interpretation summons to seek an interpretation.

Obviously it is no longer a hypothetical question. On the fact that some MPs have stated they employed persons under old guidelines which did not bar them (eg. cousins), de la Bastide said this was understandable.

In a way, I can understand the mildness of the reaction of the officials to all of this because, the former Chief Justice said.

In the legislation, the key word is improper. If the persons employed were providing a legitimate service and not an at improper rate then it may not be demonstrable that the employment was in a
Prayers for the nation

He said, We pray for the children to be protected from any form of evil and for all people to walk the path of God so as to rid themselves of the influences of evil. He urged people to have their mind-set on God at all times while outlining that many would ask the question as to whether this is possible, since people are busy making a living.

On this note, he said, people must have a certain awareness at all times about God. Whatever I am doing, I must say glory be to God, Jey-Sarwan said, adding that one must dedicate everything they do, to God. He continued to urge the audience to live in the world but not of the world. He continued to say that as the Lenten season ends in Easter people should rejoice. There is a deep hunger in our collective psyche to re-orient our lives towards the life and light, healing and peace, he stated, adding that we as a people in TT share a hunger for clarity about what is good and life-giving, and we yearn to re-focus on what is most central and important in life. Today, the Church will host its annual tea-party and Easter Bonnet competition at the Church grounds and tickets cost $50.
Rowley sends Easter blessings

Always a period for deep contemplation, at Easter the Christian Community recognizes and celebrates the tremendous promise made by God to give his only Son to the World, Rowley added. In the Christian teachings, one momentous, selfless act spiritually liberated a people; giving some the courage to move beyond the familiarity of their homes and villages to spread a message of hope and love to all who chose to listen.

During the Lenten period and Easter, Christians are called to examine their daily actions to determine if they are living the life that Jesus Christ sacrificed himself for them to enjoy.

In his Letter from Birmingham Jail, Martin Luther King Jr suggested that Jesus Christ was an extremist for love. We may also consider that Jesus was an extremist for truth and goodness and therefore rose above the jealousies, bitterness, manipulations and politics playing out around him.

Are we  those observing the Easter traditions and all of us as citizens of Trinidad and Tobago prepared to make the sacrifices that will make us proud of our country? Will we commit to conforming to the Rule of Law? Will we agree to work together, in the spirit of co-operation and conciliation, rising above individualism and partisan interests? We want to positively guide our young people. We want to provide for ourselves and our family. We want safe communities. We want to root out crime and criminality. We want an economically strong Trinidad and Tobago. We can achieve it all only if we work together with our goal being the greater good for our Nation.

The celebration of Easter, like our other religious observances, Rowley said, invites us to become our best selves. Easter promises renewal; offers us an opportunity to re-define priorities and commands us to honour a mission to make life better for those around us. Let us determine to put country before self, taking example from the Easter reflections, as we join together to wish the Christian Community a safe, happy and holy Easter.
AG speaks of Prison Reform consultation

The legislation is there but there are going to be some very important decisions for the country to factor and a lot of it depends on demystifying what the real situation is. So its time for that real conversation to happen.

The process of legislation often (involves) writing to a select bunch of people, they give you their comments and people label that consultation but with this event, youre going to get some startling statistics that you have not had before, the AG declared.

The Prison Reform Public Consultation Forum is scheduled to take place next Wednesday (April 6) from 1.30 pm at Portof- Spain City Hall, Knox Street, PoS.

According to the website of the Ministry of the AG and Legal Affairs, the objective of this forum is to address the overall correctional system, physical facilities, health services at the prisons, rehabilitation of offenders, security management services and prison officer security. This forum will also address prison legislation and prison rules, the ministry stated on its website.

Speaking with Newsday yesterday en route to an Easter bonnet parade in Marabella; part of his San Fernando West constituency, Al Rawi said, Its time we demystify the work that goes on in the background, share the information in the public domain, field comments. This is something that Im very much committed to; opening up the doors, windows and workings of the AGs Office as it relates to information analysis, legislative consideration and reform.

So were starting with the prisons and spring boarding from there into the criminal justice system.

Weve done a lot of work in the last six months, now were about to unveil a lot of that stuff. Asked if he had a certain time frame in mind for the conclusion of these public consultations, Al Rawi said he plans to have as many as is required because once the conversation starts, from there it goes on to an IT (information technology) platform where we will continue to receive comments. In other news, Al Rawi clarified an apparent discrepancy between what he recently told a reporter from another newspaper about a March 11, 2016 email sent to his constituency office by member of the Gulf View Enrichment Group, Viliana Ramoutarsingh, about health concerns in the neighbourhood.

The reporter that called me, whilst I was in the middle of doing something else, asking me specifically about Zika. I said that I had not seen something zoned in on Zika.

I did, of course, receive correspondence from Miss Ramoutarsingh. I understood that the (reporter) was asking about something else, so there was a misunderstanding on my part but the more material part is that the work in the constituency has been done. Al Rawi also told Newsday a full clearing exercise has been completed in San Fernando West, including the use of gully suckers; a type of specialised tank truck with suction gear which can suck waste water and mud and sludge out of hollows such as the hollows below drain grids in street gutters and carry it to a suitable disposal point
BRICS nations against marijuana and why this is relevant for the whole cannabis world

The BRICS nations comprise of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The members are all developing or newly industrialised countries, with a significant influence on regional and global affairs. What is the Brics stance on marijuana and why should you care?

Russia has the one of the worlds most intolerant drug policies, with no distinction between soft and hard drugs, and lengthy prison sentences for dealing and trafficking. Called a dangerous gateway drug by Russias Federal Drug Control Service, the authorities made it clear that there are no plans to legalize marijuana. According to Viktor Ivanov, Director of the Federal Narcotics Service of Russia, Marijuana users have a 50 or 60 times higher risk of switching to heroin. There is one step from dope to heroin. He added words to the effect that those who smoke marijuana for recreational purposes later suffer from depression, dissatisfaction with life and schizophrenia. He did not quote any scientific research to back up this statement. In December last year Ivanov said that Uruguays moves towards marijuana legalization was a mistake.

Why BRICS nations policy on drugs impacts everyone

As reported in the Daily Maverick, the Russia/South African Drug policy summit held in Durban, South Africa could well be the nail in the coffin of any drug policy reform in South Africa any time soon. A quote from the recent press release reads as follows: In South Africa we have adopted a zero tolerance stance against illicit drugs and, as the President of South Africa recently announced, we welcome the establishment of the SA Narcotics Enforcement Bureau, which will embrace our back-to-basics approach towards law enforcement and crime fighting. Just as we have to unite within our respective countries, so too must we  as a global village  stand in unity to fight against common enemies, including those who poison the vulnerable with illicit substances.

This is significant because for the last five years, marijuana activists in South Africa have been preparing for the Trial of the Cannabis Plant, an event which was to take place in March 2016, but has now been postponed until later in the year.

This Cannabis Trial in South Africa is significant because if the Constitutional Court in South Africa declares the laws redundant, these same activists intend to take the case all the way to the International Court of Human Rights  taking every government in the world to task on the issue of illegal use of the marijuana plant so that this plant never has to be put on trial again, anywhere in the world.

The fact that the South African and Russian governments have reiterated that there will be no plans to legalize marijuana is bad news for these South African activists who have tried so hard to put an end to the illegality of cannabis globally, and it also spells disaster for any individual within the BRICs nations who were hoping for acceptance of the plant, both for medicinal and recreational use.

Sources:

DailyMaverick.co.za

AllAfrica.com

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ISIS jihadis go on killing spree at a nursing home, kidnap Catholic priest to be crucified on Good Friday

The Indian Catholic priest kidnapped by ISIS-linked terrorists in Yemen earlier this month was crucified on Good Friday, it has been claimed.

(Article by Sara Malm, republished from //www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3512288/ISIS-carries-Good-Friday-crucifixion-Indian-Catholic-priest-Yemen-kidnapped-three-weeks-ago.html)

Father Thomas Uzhunnalil, 56, was taken by Islamist gunmen, reportedly linked to ISIS, who attacked an old peoples home in Aden, southern Yemen, killing at least 15 people, on March 4.

The terrorists reportedly carried out the heinous murder on Good Friday, after threatening to do so earlier in the week, according to the Archbishop of Vienna

It was reported last week that several religious groups had received threats that Father Thomas would be crucified on Good Friday, but this was denied by his church in hometown of Bangalore.

However, the Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Cardinal Schonborn, told a congregation gathered in St. Stephens Cathedral in the Austrian capital that the priest had been crucified.

It is not known how the Archbishop became aware of Father Thomas alleged fate, but his confirmation of the crucifixion during Easter Vigil Mass was reported in Austrian media.

Yemeni authorities have blamed ISIS for the March 4 attack on the refuge for the elderly operated by Mother Teresas Missionaries of Charity in main southern city Aden.

Four gunmen posing as relatives of one of the guests at the home burst inside, killing four Indian nuns, two Yemeni female staff members, eight elderly residents and a guard.

According to our information, the extremists who attacked the elderly care home in Aden have kidnapped priest Tom Uzhunnalil, a 56-year-old Indian, who was taken to an unknown location, a Yemeni security official said.

We are aware that no group has yet claimed the criminal attack but information points to the involvement of Daesh, said the source, who asked to remain anonymous, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

However, members of Father Toms order have denied that he is due to be crucified, saying they have no information on his health or whereabouts.

We have absolutely no information on Fr Tom, Father Mathew Valarkot, spokesman for the Salesians Bangalore province, told UCANews.

Read more at: //www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3512288/ISIS-carries-Good-Friday-crucifixion-Indian-Catholic-priest-Yemen-kidnapped-three-weeks-ago.html

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Nazi Germany or Modern America? Parents call cops on teens for passing out offensive books on public property

(NaturalNews)

Like a chapter straight out of Ray Bradburys novel Fahrenheit 451, or a snapshot of 1930s-era Germany, the distribution of a controversial best-seller book among a group of young people in an American community triggered a call to the police (//www.federaljack.com).

The trouble started when the book in question, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, by Sherman Alexie, was banned by the Mountain View High School in Meridian, Idaho.

The book is a coming-of-age tale told from the point of view of a 14-year-old Native American boy who must make the transition from a reservation to an all-white high school. The book deals frankly with common issues faced by teens everywhere, but some parents in the community felt that it contained anti-Christian themes and sexual content.

From an ACLU blog entry by senior staff attorney Lee Rowland:

Diary grapples with sex, race, and class  and is by any measure wildly successful. The book was released to rave reviews, bestseller status, and a National Book Award. And like so many other great pieces of literature, it garnered one other hallmark of notoriety: a choice spot on the American Library Associations top ten list of banned books in 2013.

Mountain View High school student Brady Kissel, upon learning of the proposed ban, decided to take a stand in support of free speech by speaking out at a school board meeting where the issue was being discussed.

Despite Bradys efforts, the school board voted to ban the book.

Meanwhile, somewhat predictably perhaps, sales of the book began to soar in Meridian. Brady Kissel teamed up with a local bookstore to organize a successful fundraiser to provide free copies of Diary to the students who had signed a petition against the ban.

When Brady and the other organizers met at a local park to distribute the 340 books they had raised the money for, one of the parents in favor of the ban learned of the event and decided the police should become involved.

Fortunately, when the police arrived, they were able to surmise pretty quickly that no laws were being broken, and so no one was arrested and no books were confiscated or burned.

The publisher of the book has since donated another 350 copies of the book and Kissel has handed them out as well. She even got a chance to meet with the books author at a literary event in Boise.

Alexie acknowledged her efforts against censorship during his lecture, saying: It was Bradys fight, and Brady stepped up in an amazing way.

In the end, the fight was won by Brady and the other champions of free speech in Meridian. The West Ada School District voted again on the issue and decided to let the book be returned to the school librarys shelves.

Referring to the victory against censorship (//freedomunderattack.blogspot.ro) in Meridian, Idaho, Alexie said that is how it is supposed to be done:

But what happens is a handful of parents that are angry are trying to determine what an entire school or an entire community gets to read. They are interested in controlling peoples thought processes.

Some citizens in our society need to be reminded from time to time that freedom of speech and protections against censorship extend across the board, guaranteeing the right of all voices to be heard  even ones that might offend a particular segment of the community.

When a young person like Brady speaks out against censorship, it should serve as that reminder. Its not the free expression of ideas that will destroy us, but rather their suppression.

Brady Kissel deserves all the praise she has received as a champion of fundamental American principles. Young people such as herself are our nations best best hope.

Sources:

//www.thedailysheeple.com

https://www.aclu.org/blog/book-em-danno

//www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article40847214.html

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Obamas Hegelian Dialectic

President Obamas recent trips to Cuba and Argentina have sure raised some eyebrows. First, our dictator wanna be stood in front of mural of Che Guevara, which in and of itself was shocking enough, then he gives a speech in Argentina where he had the audacity to say that there was little difference between communism and capitalism. Many articles portrayed these events as being a shock to the American people; however, the reality is that Obama is just beginning to reveal who he really is, and before its all over it is highly likely that he will come out as a full-blown communist offering the twisted ideology as a solution to manufactured problems. The goal all along has been to discredit capitalism, present it as an oppressive system responsible for poverty and wealth inequality while depicting communism as a system that believes in fairness and total equality. This plan is known as the Communist Peace Offensive.

Before we discuss this further we need to talk about the Hegelian Dialectic. This is a process of thought control that keeps us trapped in a narrative that pushes us closer to communism. It is also known as the Problem- Reaction- Solution strategy. Originally developed by Friedrich Hegel, the Hegelian Dialectic is a process where social change is guaranteed because opposing forces conflict, demanding a solution. Karl Marx and Fredrik Engels took this concept to a new level when applying it to their theory of communism. To them, the problem was an oppressive class of wealthy people exploiting the labor of the lower classes. It was believed that these two opposing forces would force a conflict where the obvious solution was a classless society where everybody understood their role was to serve the state, not their own interests. In fact, this was the reason World War One was fought; however, the desired end of people abandoning their loyalty to country and dedicating themselves to the communist ideal wasnt realized. Today, many people believe that the Problem-Reaction-Solution is deliberately employed through the use of false flag terror attacks, and the intentional manipulation of the economy in order to force more draconian controls. This could very well be the case; though, there is a much more subtle application.

In the article Critical Thinkers Trapped in a Marxist Paradigm, we discussed the Marxist origins of Critical Theory and how it is being used to teach our young students to be critical of their own culture. This is an application of the dialectic because they are attempting to portray freedom and our constitutional republic as the problem in the world while presenting collectivism as the solution. All of the protests we have witnessed in the past several years, Occupy Wall Street, the Burning of Baltimore and Ferguson and the Black Lives Matter movement, have been the necessary reaction to problems that were either created or over-exaggerated in order to offer communism as a solution. Consider the following from the 45 Communist goals, which incidentally, were entered into the congressional record in 1963.

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.

Use student riots to foment public protests against programs or organizations which are under Communist attack.

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.

Discredit the American Founding Fathers. Present them as selfish aristocrats who had no concern for the common man.

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.

It is very obvious that we are experiencing the application of these ideas. A couple of points need to me made, however. In the first listed goal the statement put the party line in the textbooks deserves more attention. Remember in the article Psychology has Brought Communism to America where we discussed how communist principles had been written into the psychology textbooks to such a degree, that anyone studying psychology automatically accepts communism as a reasonable philosophy? Remember the following quote from the Textbook on Psychopolitics?

In the United States we have been able to alter the works of William James, and others, into a more acceptable pattern, and to place the tenants of Karl Marx, Pavlov, Lamarck, and the Data of Dialectical Materialism into the textbooks of psychology, to such a degree that anyone thoroughly studying psychology becomes at once a candidate to accept the reasonableness of communism. (Beria, pp. 53)

This is a nationwide application of the Hegelian Dialectic being applied against our children. They are attempting to portray everything about America and our founding principles as being selfish and out of touch with global needs while offering communism as a solution. They are politicizing every issue imaginable, guns, racism, free speech, climate, land ownership, family and other principles of a free society and portraying them as the reason people suffer, while ignoring the fact that communism is a brutal ideology that led to the murder and starvation of nearly 180 million people in the twentieth century. One of these brutal communist murderers was, of course, Che Guevara.

Another point that needs to be made concerning these communist goals is the last one. It basically says the plan is to discredit America, (historically) meaning our involvement in world affairs during the twentieth century, and give more emphasis to Russian history since the communists took over. This brings us back to the Communist Peace Offensive. Everything that we have discussed is designed to give the impression that communism is the much-needed solution to a world plagued by unsolvable problems. John Dulles, Republican advisor the State Department in 1950, testified before a Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee saying that the Soviet Union was engaged in all out open war against the U.S. He said the plan was to change the public opinion of the world to believe that western powers such as The United States were engaged in imperial wars of conquest and that it was the Soviet Union that stood for peace. This has been an extremely successful campaign as today, we are seeing multitudes of young people foolishly advocate for socialism. Of course, over the past several decades the U.S. has involved itself in wars that many would argue were unnecessary. Could that have been a deliberate strategy to discredit the United States on a world stage? This is very possible as psychological warfare and deception are the hall marks of communist strategy.

While Americans may be shocked by the Presidents comments about communism, the truth is, as mentioned earlier, he is just preparing to reveal himself. President Obama was put in place because he is a community organizer, trained to stir the pot and cause discontent. He is a master at applying the Hegelian Dialectic. We were supposed to watch in awe as Obama swooped in and solved all of our problems so that when he finally revealed he was applying communist principles, we would all see that communism would be better for America. Fortunately, not all Americans have been brainwashed to such a degree and many of us can see him for what he is, a fool who is only discrediting himself. Many people believe that a communist takeover of America was a big scare tactic and that communism never presented any real threat. If that is the truth then how did we get to the point where so many people have no idea about the true history of communism while demonstrating a willingness to vote for socialist candidates? The answer is obvious; the application of Soviet-style propaganda and psychological warfare has been successful beyond anyones wildest dreams, and the time is rapidly approaching where America will be easily merged into a one world, communist system of government.

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Permitless Carry Signed into Law by Idaho Governor

Idaho Governor Butch Otter signed into law the states permitless carry law on Friday afternoon.

Permitless carry has been in the making in Idaho for nearly five years. SB138 will take effect July 1, 2016.

The bill passed out of the House State Affairs Committee by a vote of 13-4 and then was later passed by the full House by a vote of 54-15. Finally, it passed the Idaho Senate with a 27-8 vote.

Though there were a plethora of amendments that were sought to be put into the bill, which would have watered down the bill, the people of Idaho were on their toes and fought against them.

Seeing that there were veto proof majorities in the House and Senate, Governor Otter signed the bill into law. Many thought he would wait and veto the bill after the adjournment of the legislature in order to keep from being overridden.

Governor Otter also issued the following letter in which he acknowledged that the bill was consistent with the U.S. Constitution, Idaho values and our commitment to upholding our constitution protections from government overreach.

However, he then expressed concern about its lack of any provision for education and training of individuals who choose to exercise the right to concealed carry. He appealed to the well-regulated words regarding the militia in the Second Amendment for his concern.

The problem with that reasoning is that it leaves of the second part of the Second Amendment which has nothing to do with the militia, but with the right of the people to keep and bear arms. In other words, there is no education, training or permits that should be needed for people to exercise their God-given rights. For government to impose those measures indicates that the government believes they are the granters of rights, and thus, have assumed the place of God. I affectionately call such governments The Beast.

Several pro-Second Amendment groups supported the bill, including the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners of America, as well as the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police and the Idaho Sheriffs Association.

Congratulations Idaho, youre taking back your sovereign country!

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U.S. lawmakers warn that Belgium-based terrorists can come into the U.S. without a visa or background check

(NationalSecurity.news) Several lawmakers who identified Belgium as one of Europes terrorism hotspots months ago are warning again following the recent attacks that radicalized individuals living in the country are still allowed to travel to the U.S. without first obtain a visa and undergoing a security background check.

Rep. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla., a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said in an interview with the Washington Free Beacon this week that existing flaws in the visa waiver program  which helps facilitate easier travel to the United States from countries that include Belgium  have created a loophole that can be exploited by radicalized individuals who live in the excluded countries. And he is warning again, on the heels of the latest ISIS-inspired terrorist attacks in another European nation, that these flaws remain.

The visa waiver reform, this is something we have been perusing and the [Obama] administration has brushed us off at every turn, DeSantis told the WFB, noting that current visa policies do not require additional scrutiny of persons coming into the U.S. from known terrorism centers like the Belgian city of Molenbeek, which hosts a large Muslim community and is a principle terrorism training site.

Its the case that if those folks are citizens of Belgium they qualify for the visa waiver program and can hop on a plane and get here, he said. Clearly, that is not adequate given what happened.

In fact, he continued, the Obama administration even takes the position its safer to allow someone to come in on a visa waiver than make them get one, its kind of crazy, DeSantis said. Youre not going to be able to have intelligence on everyone there because there are so many potential recruits. Its a clear vulnerability.

Worse, he noted, the administration has been lax about deporting anyone who overstays their visa. That means radicalized individuals could essentially disappear inside the U.S. as they plan attacks.

Theres no enforcement once they get here, DeSantis told the WFB. Hundreds of thousands of people come over and then overstay. You are not going to be removed under current policy under this administration.

DeSantis and other lawmakers identified Belgium as a terrorist hotspot following the November 2015 ISIS-inspired attacks in Paris. Authorities and intelligence officials later identified five of the Paris attackers as French nationals, two of whom had been living in Belgium. A sixth terrorist was actually a Belgian national.

Citizens from both countries are able to freely travel to the U.S. without scrutiny by appropriate federal agencies.

At least six of the Paris attackers could have attempted to enter the country under this program, DeSantis said in December during a congressional hearing on flaws in the visa waiver program.

The administration downplayed any concerns about those who seek to travel to the U.S. from Belgium.

Though we do not require Belgian citizens to have a visa to travel here for business or tourism purposes, both the Transportation Security Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Protection have procedures in place to identify and prevent travel here from Belgium by individuals of suspicion, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson in a statement Tuesday.

All travelers arriving in the United States are vetted against the U.S. Terrorist Screening Database, regardless of whether they arrive with a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorization, Johnson added. We continually evaluate whether more screening is necessary, particularly in light of todays attacks.

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The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee is paying for ads - which were first shared with BuzzFeed News - on Twitter and Facebook that say "The GOP wants Trump to pick the next Supreme Court nominee?!" The Wall Street Journal article detailed the Cruz campaign's efforts at seating his supporters on crucial convention committees, potentially denying Trump the GOP nomination.

With the nominating primary and caucus season now past its halfway point, a CNN survey average of six recent polls found Trump holding a 12-point lead over Texas Senator Cruz, 43 percent to 31 percent. Ted Cruz took another bizarre turn on Friday, with the candidates verbally clashing over a National Enquirer story. Cruz's wife is a former Goldman Sachs investment manager and White House aide, who served as economic policy adviser to President George W. Bush.

"Likewise, I have nothing to do with the National Enquirer and unlike Lyin' Ted Cruz I do not surround myself with political hacks and henchman and then pretend total innocence".

"Donald did what he always does - he tried to find a way to change the subject", said Cruz.

Chad Deals a Huge Blow to Nigeria's AFCON 2017 Qualification

On Sept. 5, Nigeria had drawn goalless with hosts Tanzania , while Egypt had beaten hosts Chad 5-1 on Sept. 6. Pacific time in the reverse match as the series shifts from Nigeria to Alexandria, Egypt.

The two Republicans have been in a heated back-and-forth since apparently erroneous reports suggested Cruz was somehow connected to a campaign ad that maligned Trump's wife for her prior participation in a nude photo shoot. "I didn't start the fight with Lyin'Ted Cruz over the GQ cover pic of Melania, he did".

Responding originally on Twitter, Cruz said: "Your wife is lovely, and Heidi is the love of my life".

"I don't care. The National Enquirer did a story".

He said: "You know, seeing him go deeper and deeper into the gutter...it's not easy to tick me off. I don't get angry often but you mess with my wife and that'll do it every time".

Defence Expo 2016 set to begin in Goa today

The land that was acquired for setting up an industrial estate has been temporarily allotted to the Defence Ministry for the expo. A total of 204 official delegations from 44 countries and around 750 non-official business delegations are attending the show.

Shopping in a suburb west of Denver, Lucas said Trump's comments could drive independent voters like her to Clinton.

Trump said it was "disgraceful" that Cruz had blamed him for the story. Heidi Cruz is an investment banker who has taken a leave to work on her husband's campaign. He's been hiding in Trump Tower, but late at night he sends tweets attacking my wife, attacking Heidi.
Some details of the talks between King Abdullah II of Jordan and some leaders in the US congress in January have surfaced indicating the king admitted that Jordanian and British special forces were active in Libya and that he called for overcoming the ideological differences of the cold war era and religious differences and to rather focus on fighting the looming third world war against Islamist extremist groups.

Officially, Britain has not sent troops to Libya but the leaked document, relayed by Middle East Eye, stated that Abdullah expects a spike in a couple of weeks and Jordanians will be imbedded [sic] with British SAS, as Jordanian slang is similar to Libyan slang.

The King of Jordan, a close ally to the US, deplored the latters not clear objectives to tackle the Islamic State which led to cooperation with Britain for counter-insurgency warfare and not a traditional open warfare.

He added that Jordan is looking at al-Shabaab contrary to other countries and that the group has begun to feed into Libya.

The king warned that the problem is bigger than ISIL, this is a third world war, this is Christians, Jews working with Muslims against Khawarej, outlaws. He lamented that Israel looks the other way with regards to al-Nusra which controls some territories on the Israeli-Syrian border because it is considered as an opposition to Hezbollah

He also pointed fingers at Turkey claiming that president Erdogan believes in a radical Islamic solution to the problems in the region and terrorists going to Europe is part of Ankaras policy.

US congressmen refused to comment on the contents of the leaked document and Jordans Royal Court political director Dabbas said the discussions we had in Washington were off the record.
The World Bank Group has worked out a new ambitious strategy to deal with the economic and political fallout of the conflicts rocking the region of North Africa and the Middle East.

The goal is to lay the foundations for long-term peace and stability. With the support of the United Nations and the Islamic Development, the World Bank Group looks forward to building a global coalition to provide assistance to this region.

Together they have developed a new financial initiative aiming to provide urgent development support for countries of this region impacted by the Syrian refugee crisis, conflict, and economic instability.

This inclusive initiative offers a platform that brings together donor countries, beneficiary countries and financial institutions to provide a holistic response to the challenges faced by the region.

One of the most major challenges facing the region is the Syrian refugee crisis, which has had an enormous impact across the Middle East and North Africa, as well as globally.

Although millions of Syrian refugees have left for Europe, the Syrian refugee crisis is felt most acutely by the countries bordering Syria. Lebanon and Jordan alone host 23 million Syrian refugees. As they are both middle-income countries, they do not have access to the concessional financing reserved for the poorest countries. Yet, the refugee crisis is estimated to be costing Jordan U$2.7 billion a year and Lebanon US$1.6 billion. Their debt levels have shot up too: Jordans debt to GDP ratio is now 91 pc, and Lebanons 138 pc.

For countries such as Tunisia, impacted by slow growth, the initiative aims to provide additional financing to support critical economic recovery programs.

Jumpstarting growth and creating opportunities for the large number of unemployed youth will be crucial for stability in Tunisia and other countries across the region.
A source from Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has flatly denied allegations that the Moroccan carrier lets control of its planes to novice pilots who pay money to get the flying hours required to be hired as experienced pilots.

The sources reaction came after French France 3 TV aired on March 23 a program about the pay to fly common practice in the airline industry, and cited RAM among other world airlines that request big amount of money to let unexperienced pilots fly their planes, putting therefore the lives of their passengers at risk.

Pilots need to have at least 500-hour flying experience before they can be hired for long-distance flights.

The program showed a renowned consulting firm, captured by a hidden cameras, proposing a contract worth 62.500, to a pilot to get his 500-hour flying experience with RAM. According to the firm agent shown in the video, the would-be pilot would fly planes from Rabat to European destinations.

RAM source told a local media the carrier will lodge a lawsuit against the firm which it has never worked with.

The source however conceded that RAM accepts applications of some novice pilots who pay money to work with flight crews but not to fly the planes. Pilots go through an evaluation before they join crews. Even better, they take intensive training courses, the source said, insisting that the apprentices are never given control of the plane, nor are they even enrolled as co-pilots. They are merely crew attendants.
Inmate Ennaama Asfari claims he has been on a hunger strike for almost a month, yet he does not seem to suffer from any weakness, pallor or weight loss. Is this a miracle or does he have a superhuman strength?

Neither is the answer. Ennaama Asfari and 12 of his inmates are pretending to be on hunger strike to position themselves as victims of ill-treatment in the prison where they are serving their sentences for involvement in the bloody events of Gdeim Izik, near Laayoune, in December 2010.

Ennaama Asfari is serving a thirty-year sentence for having participated in the murder, during the Gdeim Izik tragic events, of 11 members of Moroccan law enforcement agents.

The 13 inmates of the Gdeim Izik group, as they are called, who announced an indefinite hunger strike on March 1 are normal and their health condition does not raise any concern, said the General Directorate of penitentiary administration and rehabilitation in a statement released last week.

The reasons for their alleged hunger strike have nothing to do with their detention conditions and are just meant to deceive the public opinion by posing as victims, the DGAPR statement said.

Their daily activities and the results of medical checkups, some conducted at the request of the inmates themselves, in public hospitals, show that their health condition is normal and does not raise any concern, after 22 days of the start of their alleged hunger strike, said the statement.

The clarifications made by the DGAPR came to confirm reports from the prison that the hunger strikers are regularly seen eating. A source from the prison told a local media that the strikers were spotted eating on Saturday, March 26.

Some commentators explained that the alleged indefinite hunger strike is a mere propaganda operation, supported by some so-called human rights activists who seek to influence a French court ruling.

Actually, Ennaama Asfari who is married to a French national lodged a complaint in France against Moroccan authorities for alleged torture. The French court is to review the case on April 4.

In the complaint, Ennaama Asfari mentioned the names and ranks of people who allegedly tortured him for 5 days and the names of others who were present and who were therefore, according to him, guilty of non-assistance to a person in danger. How could he get the details of these persons? Local e-journal Le360 ironically said the so-called torturers handed him their business card before starting.

For any wise observer, the whole story is a sham meant to incriminate Moroccan security forces, at a time these forces are being lauded worldwide for their professionalism, and to trigger diplomatic crises between states to undermine their cooperation that is vital in some cases.
Californians protest for a higher wage. Photo: Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg

Good morning and welcome to Fresh Intelligence, our roundup of the stories, ideas, and memes youll be talking about today. In this edition, California is close to a wage hike, Sanders challenges Clinton in New York, and parents are the worst. Heres the rundown for Monday, March 28.

WEATHER

A massive cold front is heading east bringing cooler weather and rain through Washington, D.C., New York, and New England. Florida is having its own troubles, with multiple large thunderstorms and heavy hail spotted across the state. [Weather.com]

FRONT PAGE

California Close to Minimum-Wage Deal

California lawmakers have reached a deal to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2022. If the law is passed, it would be a major victory for proponents for raising wages across the country, which has become something of a movement this year with similar legislation under consideration in cities all over America. The current minimum wage in California is $10 an hour. The new law would allow small-business owners an extra year to implement the new wages. [NYT]

EARLY AND OFTEN

Bernie Throws Down Gauntlet for New York Debate

Now that cage fighting is legal in New York, Bernie Sanders has challenged Hillary Clinton to a showdown in the city. Clinton has yet to respond. **Chicken Noise**

When a Joke Becomes Reality, Reality Becomes a Joke

A Change.org petition asking that attendees be allowed to bring guns to the Republican National Convention has gotten nearly 40,000 signatures, and even Donald Trump has said he is taking it seriously. Heres the thing, the whole petition was started as a joke. Not that that really means anything anymore. [CNet]



Kerry Acts Like America Embarrassing Itself Is New

Secretary of State John Kerry said in an interview on Sunday that the Republican race for the nomination  especially comments about Muslims and Trumps promise to bring back torture  is embarrassing the nation abroad and ruining our international reputation. If you remember, our reputation before this election cycle was stellar.



Sanders Actually Takes Hawaii and Alaska Seriously

Bernie Sanders is riding high following Saturdays big wins in primaries in Washington, Alaska, and Hawaii. Yesterday, the candidate said that his victories would help win over powerful Democrats and superdelegates to his cause. He also criticized the Clinton campaign for depending on wealthy donors.

THE STREET, THE VALLEY

Microsoft Mulls Role in Yahoo Purchase

Microsoft, Yahoos most steadfast ally is in talks with investors and might be willing to play a role in the purchase of the struggling company. Microsoft has assured consumers that its longstanding deals with Yahoo over advertising and its search engine will remain unchanged. [Reuters]



Facebook Just Wants to Make Sure Everyone Is Okay

Facebooks recently unveiled safety-check feature ran into a bit of a hitch after yesterdays deadly terrorist attack in Lahore, Pakistan. Following the explosion  next to a playground in a crowded park  Facebook sent notifications to people in the United States and Europe believing they were in the vicinity of the blast. [CNet]

Law Could Make New Jersey Slightly Less Obnoxious

Pamela Lampitt, a Democratic assemblywoman from New Jersey, has been bumped into one too many times. She recently proposed a bill that would fine people who walk and text $50, and people who are repeatedly caught walking and texting could even face jail time. New Jersey, how very civilized of you. [CNet]

iPhone Encryption Fight II: European Vacation

Following terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels, governments across Europe are considering strengthening their ability to access their citizens digital information. The move will inevitably put them on a collision course with Apple, which has recently shown its willingness to go to court to protect its products encryption. [NYT]

MEDIA BUBBLE

Crashing Oil Prices Unexpected Casualties

Al Jazeera Broadcasting is laying off more than 10 percent of its staff  thats nearly 500 people. Al Jazeera is partially funded by the ruling family of Qatar and its economy has been under pressure following the global decline in oil prices. [Reuters]

Thomas the Tank Engine Experiments With More Diverse Characters  Still All Trains

You may not have realized it but Thomas the Tank Engine is big business. The television show and toy line rakes in more than $1 billion a year. Now the company is responding to longstanding complaints about a lack of diversity and adding in characters like Yong Bao, a Chinese train; Ashima, an Indian train; and Carlos, a train from Mexico. [NYT]

Rural America Looses a Powerful Voice

Jim Harrison, the novelist, poet, and possessor of prodigious appetites died over the weekend at home in Arizona. He was 78. Harrison was well known for his stories of hunger and yearning  including his most famous work Legends of the Fall  and for embodying a certain outdoorsy, masculine, rural American ideal. He split his time between Montana and Arizona.

PHOTO OP

Mexicans Dislike GOP Candidates, Though They Assume Some Are Good People

Usually we would go with a picture of the Pope addressing the faithful for Easter, but then something like this comes along and captures the Easter spirit so perfectly: Mexicans celebrating the holy day by burning a Donald Trump effigy.

Some Mexicans celebrated Easter by burning effigies of Donald Trump: https://t.co/XfnJliGfvE pic.twitter.com/4W1KOLIHDS  VICE News (@vicenews) March 27, 2016

MORNING MEME

We love these trippy Easter eggs.

OTHER LOCAL NEWS

Candy-Crazed Jerks Ruin Everything

An Easter egg hunt in Connecticut ended in disgrace after angry parents got physical, rushing the field trying to get candy for their children and, in at least one instance, actually injuring a kid. The event, sponsored by Pez, is just the latest chapter in that companys long and violent history. [CNN]

Family Exploits Sad Old Man for Profit, Calls It a Meme

In a very bizarre internet event, a photo of a sad grandfather eating alone after he cooked burgers for his grandchildren who never showed up, has gone viral. So of course the Sad Pawpaw family hosted a cookout, selling burgers, and T-shirts with hundreds showing up and one family driving nine hours just to meet him. We dont understand this at all. [News9]

HAPPENING TODAY

Talk Show Hosts Rejoice: Blagojevich Back in the News

Rod Blagojevich, the latest in a long line of corrupt, disgraced Illinois governors, will find out today if the Supreme Court will hear his request to overturn his multi-charge corruption conviction. If not, or if the appeal fails, Blagojevich can expect to spend the next 14 years behind bars. [Chicago Tribune]



As Reality Becomes Unbearable, VR to the Rescue

The era of virtual reality officially begins today as the Oculus Rift ships to regular consumers for the first time. The Oculus Rift is the first in a series of personal virtual-reality headsets that will become available this year. [Forbes]



Obama to Address Press at Toner Prize Dinner

Obama will be the keynote speaker tonight at the annual Toner Prize for Excellence in Political Reporting awards dinner, an event that celebrates Americas free press. Journalists hope the president will address his administrations perceived shortcomings in transparency and his failures to deal forthrightly with the press. [NYT]
Hey, America, you O.K.? Photo: FREDERIC SIERAKOWSKI

After terror attacks in Brussels and a weekend of escalated violence in the Middle East, GOP candidates Donald Trump and Ted Cruz doubled down on their xenophobic policies Sunday. I dont think America is a safe place for Americans, Trump told ABC News This Week. Were allowing thousands of people to come in here. Nobody knows where theyre from.

But statements such as these  as well as Cruzs modest proposal to surveil Muslim communities  are hurting the United States image in the international community. According to Secretary of State John Kerry, the rhetoric surrounding this years GOP race is putting world leaders on edge.

Everywhere I go, every leader I meet, they ask about what is happening in America, Kerry told CBSs Face the Nation on Sunday. They cannot believe it. I think it is fair to say that theyre shocked. They dont know where its taking the United States of America. And to some degree I must say to you, some of the questions, the way theyre posed to me, its clear to me that whats happening is an embarrassment to our country.

Although Kerry didnt refer to anyone by name, Trump and Cruz are the two candidates with the most overtly shocking policy proposals, and even some of Trumps less-horrific ideas are unprecedented. For instance, in a lengthy interview with the New York Times about his foreign-policy agenda Friday, Trump told reporters hes not isolationist, but hes America first. We will not be ripped off anymore, he said of his pronouncement that U.S. allies such as Saudi Arabia should pay to keep American forces on their soil.

He would also like to end other agreements and organizations he deems unfair such as NATO, Chinas access to American markets, and oil purchases from Saudi Arabia. Japan and South Korea, he said, should be allowed to build up their nuclear arsenals rather than rely on American weapons. And our one-sided security pact with Japan ought to be scrutinized as well.

Stances such as these upset peoples sense of equilibrium about [Americas] steadiness, about our reliability, Kerry said. In other words, even if Trump isnt elected, his statements on the campaign trail might be enough to change Americas relationship with foreign countries. At least well always have Canada.
What isnt wrong with this picture? Photo: Yitan Sun, Jianshi Wu/eVolo

Two young architects have won the web magazine eVolos annual design competition with this grand proposal: Dig out Central Park, drop it nearly a quarter-mile, and line the sides of the pit with a mirror-faced apartment slab that burrows 100 feet horizontally under the surrounding cityscape.

Why do such a thing? Itd add tens of thousands of apartments with park views! Affordable housing! Democratization! And after all, theres a long history of thought experiments about alternative uses for Central Park, including having it appraised, as New York did, jokingly, in 2005. That figure is probably up a good 40 percent by now.

This proposal is no doubt meant to be cheeky  but also presumably half-plausible and worthy of discussion. So lets explore just how terrible the idea really is.

Sure, lets do that. Photo: Yitan Sun, Jianshi Wu/eVolo

Never mind, at first, the physical city that actually exists. That, for example, several subway lines run under Central Park. That our water-supply tunnels do as well. That the very nice buildings lining the current park, their foundations newly undermined, will want to collapse into the new park. That this giant pit will turn into a bathtub when it rains, or in fact when it doesnt rain. (Remember that the MTA, with subway lines perhaps 30 feet below the surface, pumps groundwater out of them constantly.) That deep holes tend to collect trash as well as water. Plus, whatever unfathomably foul urban stuff sluices down the glass: Imagine life on the first floor of that thing. And consider, if you will, how dark it is at 3 p.m. on a December day in New York. Now consider it from the bottom of a quarter-mile-deep hole.

These two architects  both recent graduates of the Rhode Island School of Design  apparently didnt worry much about preserving the signature quality of Central Park that makes it successful: its porosity at the edges, and its enveloping nature once youre inside. It costs nothing  and not only in terms of money  to enter or exit. You can drift in and out, from cityscape to greenery and back, almost without meaning to. Yet you wander in just a couple of hundred feet, and unless you crane your neck to look at the San Remo, you almost cant tell youre in the Manhattan grid. Needless to say, that will not be true if youre a hundred stories down. Ample evidence exists that when buildings put sunken plazas out front  merely 15 feet or so below the sidewalk  they go un-strolled. The General Motors building had one, and it played host to failed tenant after failed tenant. It has only scored today because the Apple Store paved it over and brought the entrance up to grade.

But, the urban historians among you may be thinking, Central Park is not natural landscape! That is true. When Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux designed it, it was basically a big field containing a few trees and rocks. Virtually everything you see today, from the Reservoir to the Ramble, was built from scratch. So basically wed be demolishing it and attempting to reconstruct it from the get-go. But it is worth keeping in mind that it took us 150 years to get mature trees, and we have just spent decades lovingly repairing places like Belvedere Castle, which would be discarded.

The designers argument hinges upon a well-intentioned, vaguely de Blasioish impulse: This would provide thousands of apartments on an otherwise tapped-out, overpriced island, and we can make them affordable. Never mind that clustering such housing in big hives has, as a theory, been widely discredited; the only thing that might work less well than a clump of poorly maintained housing-project towers would be a clump of poorly maintained housing-project towers whose floors are buried in the earth and have windows on only one side. Youd basically be creating the inverse version of Kowloon Walled City, arguably the most nightmarish place in the history of urban life. Id also enjoy seeing how the residents of every Fifth Avenue and Central Park West co-op react to ceding their front yards to a black hole.

Still, there has been a worse idea for Central Park. In 2009, the Manhattan Airport Foundation suggested converting that long green undeveloped area between 59th and 110th Streets into an airfield. Those folks, mercifully, were kidding.
The remains of the Arc de Triomph monument that was destroyed by ISIS. Photo: MAHER AL MOUNES/AFP/Getty Images

Syrian forces loyal to President Bashar Assad have liberated the strategically important city of Palmyra from ISIS, the Associated Press has confirmed. The historic city was taken after a nearly three-week campaign, which included heavy bombardment of the city by Russian aircraft and the assistance of Lebanese militias on the ground, including Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters. It also marks a major victory during the month-old, internationally brokered cease-fire in Syrias civil war, which was designed, in part, to allow an alliance of sorts against Islamist militants like ISIS.

As the AP notes, ISIS is now facing strong, organized advances from virtually all their adversaries along multiple fronts, including Kurdish Peshmerga forces from the north, Iraqi forces from the east, and Syrian forces from the west, as well as continued bombardment from Russian and Western air power.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights calculates that 400 ISIS fighters were killed in the fight for Palmyra, while 180 anti-ISIS fighters were killed on the other side. ISIS also apparently evacuated Palmyras civilians to other ISIS-held territory prior to losing the city, so its not clear how many people were in the city to be liberated, and the AP points out that some residents dont have any interest in living under Assads rule either.

The Syrian government is now reportedly trying to determine the extent of the damage caused by ISIS to Palmyras ancient ruins, which the militants had claimed to have mostly destroyed. Syrian state television has apparently shown footage of rubble and smashed statues in the city and its museum, but has also aired video of some artifacts and structures, like Palmyras grand colonnades, that were still intact or recoverable.
The ban is still okay though. Photo: Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images

Donald Trump definitively stated on Sunday that he would rule out putting American Muslims into internment camps. During Trumps call-in interview on ABCs This Week, host Jonathan Karl asked the GOP front-runner explicitly about the issue:

KARL: So let me ask you, you said that Islam is at war with us. A lot of people wonder, given some of your proposals, whether or not you would go the next step towards internment camps. And I know youve never proposed that. But let me just ask you here now, would you categorically rule out the idea of internment camps for American Muslims? Is that something  TRUMP:  rule it out but we would have to be very vigilant. Were going to have to be very smart. Were going to have to be very rigid and very vigilant. And if were not very, very strong and very, very smart, we have a big, big problem coming up. Weve already had the problem. Check out the World Trade Center, OK, check out the Pentagon. Weve already had the problem. But I would  I would say you have to be extremely strong. You have to keep your eyes open. And by the way, Muslims in our country have to report bad acts, OK?

Last fall in the wake of the Paris terrorist attacks, Donald Trump seemed to suggest that he would consider registering American Muslims into some kind of database so they could be monitored properly, and the comment inevitably, and understandably, conjured comparisons to Nazi Germanys treatment of Jews. A few weeks later, after the ISIS-inspired attack in San Bernardino, Trump called for a total and complete ban on Muslims being allowed into the U.S., and then compared that idea, favorably, to President Franklin Roosevelts decision to authorize the internment of 110,000 Japanese Americans following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Then he indicated that, while he hated the concept of internment camps, he wasnt sure whether or not he would have supported the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, only to later eventually clarify that he was indeed opposed to it.
Lawsuits: is there anything they cant do? Photo: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Donald Trump has been facing many unfair challenges in his quest for the GOP presidential nomination, from Establishment plots to derail his candidacy to shadowy forces that set the delegate requirement at the arbitrary number of 1,237 (also known as math). Now the front-runner has vowed to fight back, after being cruelly robbed of ten delegates thanks to Louisianas primary rules.

Trump tweeted on Sunday afternoon:

Just to show you how unfair Republican primary politics can be, I won the State of Louisiana and get less delegates than Cruz-Lawsuit coming  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 27, 2016

As explained in a recent Wall Street Journal report, while Trump beat Ted Cruz by 3.6 percentage points in Louisiana, the Texas senator may walk away with ten more delegates. Technically, Trump and Cruz won the same number of delegates, 18 each, but since Marco Rubio dropped out of the race, his delegates are now free agents. Theyre expected to back Cruz, along with the states five unbound delegates. Cruz supporters also snatched up five of Louisianas six spots on the committees that will write the rules of the GOP convention, which could be key in determining the winner of a contested convention.

That certainly sounds insane, but as has been widely discussed in recent weeks, thats true of Americas entire patchwork of arcane primary rules. Jason Dore, the executive director of the Louisiana GOP, tells the Times-Picayune that the decision to award delegates on a proportional basis was made long before anyone knew Trump was running, and if he has a problem with how Rubios delegates are voting, its between Mr. Trump and those guys. Similarly, who the unbound delegates choose to support is out of our control.

Dore said the state party will be prepared should Trump sue, but he noted that its unclear who exactly Trump intends to go after in court.

Of course, a winner like Trump has no use for that kind of logic. Everyone knows Americas primary process isnt great, and threatening frivolous lawsuits is Trumps preferred method of fixing things.
Next stop: Lancaster County, then a Pennsylvania court. Photo: bravobravo/Getty Images

Anyone whos ever hailed a cab and asked to go to an outer borough knows that drivers are often less than eager to leave Manhattan. (Which is to say: Theyll sometimes flat-out refuse, even though thats illegal.) But a Pennsylvania woman this weekend reportedly got a driver to take her all the way from New York City to her home in Lancaster County, in exchange for $600. When the cab arrived in front of her home, the woman said she just needed to run inside and would be back in a few minutes to pay the fare. You can guess what happened next.

Police said that the woman, 44-year-old Kelli A. Boyer, got out of the cab at around 1 a.m. Sunday, punched in the numeric code to her garage door, entered the home, and didnt come back out. The cab driver waited about 15 minutes before calling the cops, and even though the house lights were on and the garage door was still open, Boyer refused to answer the door or the phone.

Its rather hard, of course, to get away with skipping out on a fare of any amount when the driver has dropped you off at home, and cops say the cab driver was able to identify Boyer from a photo. Shes charged with a misdemeanor count of theft of services, which was to be filed with a district judges office on Monday. Meanwhile, every cab driver who was already reluctant to drive to Sheepshead Bay or Middle Village just got another reason to tell passengers that theyre going off-duty.
Photo: Eureka Pictures

Every workplace, for better or for worse, is plagued by the same kinds of people: millennials, screw-arounds, people who wear shoes that dont look good on them, men, women, and lazy, lazy idiots who somehow find more time to play Candy Crush on their smartphones than do real work. Are you the kind of hard worker who feels isolated in a sea of simps whod rather get paid for doing naught? Never fear: It turns out these layabouts could be more valuable than we once thought.

Eisuke Hasegawa, a professor of agriculture at Hokkaido University in Japan, looked at laziness in ant colonies to find out how these characters affect the dynamic within their workforce. In a study published last month in Nature, Hasegawa revealed that when a colony had lazy ants, it actually helped contribute to the colonys long-term sustainability because they have a reserve workforce to replace the tired, actually hardworking ants when necessary. In the short term, lazy ants are inefficient, but in the long term, they are not, Hasegawa explained. According to his research, as workload increases, lazy ants responded by doing more work. They actually chose to step it up a little bit.

New game: Do less work yourself, then see if your colleagues take a break from that sick Candy Crush game. Repeat.
Adele reveals she's grown something unusual since getting pregnant https://t.co/Stp2zJ5yAB pic.twitter.com/GPcbqas3PH  Mirror Celeb (@MirrorCeleb) March 27, 2016

At her concert in Glasgow, Adele revealed that when she was pregnant, the extra testosterone in her system caused her to grow a beard. She told her audience, "" She joins celebs like Drew Barrymore in growing facial hair while pregnant.After Jamie Oliver's controversial comments on LBC about the merits of breastfeeding, Adele answered a fan at a London concert of hers in regards to the issue. She reportedly said, "She then talked about how she's known people to fall into depression after midwives shamed them for not being able to breastfeed. Adele herself is one mom who was not able to breastfeed, and she added, "" (Aptamil is a brand of baby formula.)
Great piece! (And I love that it is available in Spanish too). Do not read the comments though, ugh. So many heartless people.



If only there were enough reasonable people in Congress to act on this and help...

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I skimmed a couple of them and closed the window. So many people blaming PR for financial mismanagement. How are Americans so ignorant of all the shit the US has put PR through? The laws and taxes imposed on PR by congress could literally have no other outcome than debt and financial crisis.

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I mean, they aren't wrong in a way. Our government is corrupt as fuck. It is depressing because we KNOW these assholes steal and give lucrative contracts to friends and families and benefit from them. It's a huge, huge mess.

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i was JUST about to make a post when i for an email notification for this post.



this whole thing is infuriating.

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I wish more people in this country gave half a shit about Puerto Rico. In the last ten years, it's become so dangerous living in PR (as a direct result of poverty), I didn't even want my kids to go visit my family out there. It's become an island full of the elderly and infirm (with no doctors, because ppl go to school there but leave and go work in other countries after getting their education in PR) and the uneducated, jobless youth who don't have many other options available to them. My brother is lucky af that he's even got a job - and it's 5 bucks an hour, 80 hours a week, and he still can't pay for his shit without selling weed on the side tbh.

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Even if you do get a education and actually decide to stay there, you're still going to be struggling to pay bills. It's crazy my cousin works as an engineer making $16 an hour. She went to school for six years for that? Fuck that. I get why people leave.

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I don't disagree with them leaving. It's just fucked that they either have to stay in San Juan to find work (which is pretty impossible anyway), or leave the country.

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We've managed to get a lot of my family over here to Florida and Georgia, but I have a few aunts and cousins who just can't afford to come over. I have one older aunt who has a lot of health issues, and she can't get treated because there are so few doctors left and the ones that are still there are so expensive. Most of my family lives outside San Juan, which at least is still getting some tourist money, but even shitty jobs are scarce.

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My brother is lucky af that he's even got a job - and it's 5 bucks an hour, 80 hours a week, and he still can't pay for his shit without selling weed on the side tbh.



Jesus, that's insane! I didn't realize the federal minimum wage (ridiculously low as it is) didn't cover there...that would be bad for mainland US, and given how high the cost of living has gotten, that is extra crazy! :/



Edited at 2016-03-28 09:42 pm (UTC)

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There are few things sadder than seeing how your country keeps sinking and knowing you won't be able to have a future if you stay. The amount of Puerto Ricans who come to my university has increased tremendously in just three or so years. The whole situation is heartbreaking.

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This was so beautifully written. I honestly had no idea this was happening





Also- it's been confirmed that Groff is leaving Hamilton in two weeks!

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hopefully that will mean just a fraction less of people entering the lottery, thereby increasing my chances! ;)

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I LIKE THE WAY YOU THINK

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I'll miss him in Ham4Ham, but I'm glad I'm sneaking in to see Groff right before he leaves.

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Ah well, glad to have caught him! Will miss the behind-the-scenes videos of him and Lin, but it sounds like a great opportunity for Groff.

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:(



i'm going in may and i'm sad that i won't see him!

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i'm going ten days after his last show

and i am very buuuuuuuuummed

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i'm going the night before he leaves and i could not be happier

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Great piece

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Here for Rory O'Malley as KG3

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I'm happy my first post is both a Puerto Rico post and a Lin post!

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Lmao where is the footage in this gif from?

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I am terrified of getting carjacked for driving a relatively nice car. And it's not only that, robbers are concentrating on nice controlled access neighborhoods and holding people hostage and robbing them. I've heard some cases of women being raped as their houses are robbed. It is terrifying. I don't even park my car by myself if I go to the mall, I valet it because I'm scared for walking to the parking lot alone.



And yeah, there are a lot of well off people here too. Hell, I am going on a trip in a few weeks with a friend of mine whose family is rich as fuck and we are flying private to an island they own to stay. So yeah, there are ubber rich people but there is a lot of poverty and us in the middle class are so screwed. Salaries are laughable, the cost of living is ridiculous, crime is crazy. I returned but I'm scared and sad I might have to leave again when I don't want to.

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Be safe, sis. <3

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Fuerza bb. Solo te puedo decir que estas cosas no pueden durar para siempre :( Nadie deberia tener que pasar por esto.

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it's pretty sad Congress clearly dgaf about PR. the longer this continues the more difficult and costly it'll be to fix it. and with hospitals closing and i think 20% of the population estimated to contract Zika virus, this could be really awful for Puerto Ricans.

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There are a lot of sanitation issues right now because the government literally can't afford to empty septic tanks and maintain public hygiene. Plus the majority of Puerto Ricans can't pay for health care now, even if they got sick and it was available.

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omfg im fuming. once the govt drags its feet when it comes to being responsive to the health and safety needs of citizens

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I don't have a full understanding of the history of PR and how it got such a crappy deal, but it blows my mind how little the US cares about some of its citizens. I remember going to PR on a vacation, and being Canadian I go through customs at the airport in Canada. The US Customs agent asked me where I was going and I said San Juan and she snapped at me that I shouldn't have indicated that I'm travelling to the US and that just because I had a connection in DC didn't mean I was going to the US. I pointed out that PR was part of the US and she snapped back that it didn't count and I should have put PR as my destination country. It was six in the morning and I didn't really feel like fighting, so I apologized, but wtf? I don't consider Yellowknife not part of Canada because its in a territory and not a province. I still fume about that situation and that was nearly 10 years ago now.

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http://waragainstallpuertoricans.com/historical-overview/ If you're interested in reading, this blog gives a good summary of how the US created and continually worsened the economy problems in Puerto Rico.

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Thank you! I know I don't know enough about this topic so it's great to have a good resource to start.

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thanks for this. it's so informative.



hoLY fuck this part blew my mind



The Porto Ricans (sic) are the dirtiest, laziest, most degenerate and thievish race of men ever to inhabit this sphereI have done my best to further the process of extermination by killing off eight and transplanting cancer into several moreAll physicians take delight in the abuse and torture of the unfortunate subjects.

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Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in Hello! Your entry got to top-25 of the most popular entries in LiveJournal!Learn more about LiveJournal Ratings in FAQ

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I had a coworker at my old job who just retired there last year, yeah he moved back earlier this year because of the economic situation. I was so puzzled when he came back, because it was his dream to return home. All of his kids are there and he is paying for their college, but couldn't afford to stay there and support them. I felt really bad having to see him come back to work, especially since our workplace wasn't the best.

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I feel for Puerto Rico and its people. Their situation is pretty similar (if thankfully, just slightly less awful) than what's happening in my home country, and our cultures and everything are so similar than it hits harder. It's a shame how many people aren't aware, don't care, or use it as a way to attack and blame PR. I am glad Lin wrote this.

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i wish more people would give a shit about us lol



Edited at 2016-03-28 11:57 pm (UTC)

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After the slow and painful death of Canadian oil exports - helped along by crashing oil prices, a global supply glut, and the languishing Keystone XL Pipeline - Canada has opened up some other outlets for exporting its crude oil to refineries on the U.S. Gulf Coast, experiencing a two-fold increase since 2014.

According to new data, Canadian crude oil exports to U.S. Gulf Coast refineries topped 389,000 barrels per day last yeardouble the amount in 2014and it was all made possible by new pipelines that came on stream over the course of last year.

The three new pipelines to the Gulf CoastSeaway, Southern Access, and Cushing Marketlinkadded a combined throughput capacity of 1.85 million bpd to the transport system for crude between Canada and the U.S., said Canadas National Energy Boards market analyst Melissa Merrick. Related: Offshore Lease Sale Disrupted by Protestors Shouting Shut it Down

All in all, Canada exported most of its 3.87 million bpd output, or 3.035 million barrels. Of this, 3.009 million barrels went to the U.S.

In the first week of January, Canadian crude oil exports to the U.S. reached an all-time record of 3.4 million barrels per day, according to preliminary data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

However, while this is good news for Canada, the figures arent quite as sensational as the headlines tend to be. The actual amount heading to the U.S. Gulf Coast is a relatively small portion of overall Canadian crude exports to its southern neighbor. The bulk goes to the U.S. Midwest, which received 1.916 million bpd last year from Canada.

At the same time, oil imports also increased, to 736,000 bpd, of which crude from down south accounted for 62.4 percent, or almost 500,000 bpd, up from around 340,000 bpd in 2014.

Whats more, according to Beth Lau from the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, the twofold increase is unlikely to be repeated this year because there is not enough throughput capacity. Related: Brussels Terror Attack Drives Europe Further Into Terrorism Rabbit Hole

This brings us back around to Keystone XL, which could have added 830,000 bpd of throughput capacity to the pipelines carrying crude to the Gulf Coast refineries had it not been cancelled by the Obama administration in November 2015. Thats not an insignificant amount of oil capacity, given the fact that Western Canadian Select (WCS) is trading at a substantial discount to WTI. The May contract for the Canadian crude closed at a bit over $13 per barrel on March 24, while WTI is well over $30 at the moment.

WCS is a real bargain for U.S. refineries. But its not going to come through Keystone.

But the absence of Keystone simply means that Canadian crude has to find other routes, both rail and alternative pipelines.

TransCanada, the would-be operator of Keystone XL, has now agreed to buy Houston-based Columbia Pipeline Group Inc. for $10.2 billion, which owns some 15,000 miles of gas pipeline running from New York to the Gulf of Mexico, along with one of the biggest underground storage systems in the U.S. Related: $40 Billion LNG Project In Australia Cancelled Amid Low Prices

At the end of the day, some believe that Canadian export figures indicate that Canada is gaining U.S. market share as a result of the oil price crisis, and as U.S. shale production gets shut in, waiting for better days.

Thats the one piece of puzzle you dont hear too much about  the market share Canada is gaining in the U.S., said Carl Evans, senior crude oil analyst at energy research firm Genscape, told the Financial Post.

But you dont hear too much about it because its a bit of a red herring. According to Platts, Albertas crude is selling at a major discount because it doesnt have enough export outlets. That means that if it wants to get overseas, its got to go through the U.S. for the most part, and even then, pipeline space is limited and more expensive (and dangerous) rail is often the only option.

By Irina Slav of Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
The collapse in oil prices is forcing Saudi Arabia to undertake some deep and fundamental changes to its economy, reforms that no amount of browbeating from organizations like the IMF could induce.

A new report from The Atlantic Council finds that the extensive decline in oil revenues is focusing minds in Riyadh. The fiscal pressure is forcing the kingdoms leadership to modernize the economy, the report concludes.

Saudi Arabia ran a fiscal deficit of about $98 billion in 2015, a figure that will decline only slightly to $87 billion this year. That deficit total is also probably closer to $120 billion in reality though, given that the costs from the war in Yemen were not included. Related: China And India Rewrite The Rules Of The Oil And Gas Game

The fiscal squeeze is forcing some changes. First, the Saudi government is looking at new taxes, including a 5 percent value added tax (VAT). That may seem like a run-of-the-mill austerity measure, but for Saudi Arabia it is a novel proposal: it will be the first tax imposed in the country.

More to the point, the VAT is illustrative of where Saudi Arabia is heading. The Atlantic Council argues that the kingdom is starting to reform its economy in fundamentally positive ways. Low oil prices are forcing it to rely more upon taxes and less on oil revenues. That would start to make Saudi Arabia less of a rentier state, a country that has no need to build much of an economy because resource extraction is so lucrative. Rentier states often suffer from greater corruption and a deeper lack of responsiveness to the needs of the public, since abundant oil revenues mean that the government does not need revenue from its populace.

Another major shift in Saudi Arabia could be the partial privatization of Saudi Aramco. Prince Mohammed bin Salman made news in early January when he told The Economist that the government was mulling over such a step. There has been a lot of speculation about why an IPO would be staged. Transparency appears to be a top concern. While Aramco routinely publishes operational data, detailing production figures, shipments, and downstream activity, the company reveals very little about its finances. The most likely explanation for Saudi Aramcos lack of financial transparency is that it wants to hide how much money is siphoned off to the royal family, The Atlantic Council report suggests. Related: Why We Could See An Oil Price Shock In 2016

By privatizing some Aramco assets (likely downstream) and cleaning up and publishing data from the companys books, the Saudi government apparently is showing some recognition that its relationship with the public must change. Naturally, the royal family is unlikely to find itself cut off from any of the oil benefits to which it is accustomed. However, what is likely to change is that the family will no longer see itself as able to access funds without being held responsible by the Saudi public.

Obviously, the downturn in oil prices is not exactly something that the Saudi government is happy about. Although it has about $616 billion in cash reserves, enough to finance its large fiscal deficits for years, Saudi Arabia is burning through those reserves at a rapid clip. In 2014, Saudi Arabia had $746 billion in reserves at its highest point.

Also, the governments perennial top concern is social stability. Having to introduce new austerity measures, reduce subsidies, raise some taxes, and generally acknowledge that the countrys luxurious days could be coming to an end, the fall in oil prices presents some new risks. As The Atlantic Council notes in its report, any instability in a country that accounts for 10 percent of the worlds oil production would be felt across the globe. Related: Brussels Terror Attack Drives Europe Further Into Terrorism Rabbit Hole

Still, the reforms underway are long overdue, and in that sense, there is a silver lining in the crude price crash. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has succeeded in starting to build a more diversified industrial economy, with new facilities producing chemicals, fertilizers, aluminum, cement, and other industrial products. Up until now, however, economic diversification has not gone as far as it could. Part of the reason is that Saudi Arabia, as a rentier state, does not tax manufacturing, and thus, has had little incentive to promote its growth. For that matter, it has had little incentive to promote the growth of any non-oil sector of its economy.

Now, the reforms underway  new taxes, subsidy cuts, and the partial privatization of Saudi Aramco  are making Saudi Arabia increasingly resemble most modern economic states.

However, it is still early days and the reforms are far from assured. Admittedly, complete change will not come overnight, but it is nonetheless being prodded on by the decline in income, the report concludes.

By Nick Cunningham of Oilprice.com

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Just over three months after the authorities lifted the four-decade ban on crude oil exports, the U.S. has actually exported less this year than it did over the same period the year before, when the ban was still in place.

According to Clipper Data market intelligence cited by the Financial Times, weve seen a 5 percent decline in U.S. crude oil export volumes since the beginning of this year. The data suggests that on average we are exporting (waterborne) 325,000 barrels per day now, compared to 342,000 barrels per day during the first months of 2015.

And theres no official data yetnot since the beginning of this year, when the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) noted that during the week ending 22 January, the U.S. had exported just shy of 400,000 barrels of oil, which again was 25 percent less than what was exported for the same week in 2014. Related: Brussels Terror Attack Drives Europe Further Into Terrorism Rabbit Hole

An oil tanker that reached a French port in January was the first post-ban delivery of U.S. crude oil, but things havent really picked up pace since then.

Januarys cargoes, totaling about 11.3 million barrels, marked a 7 percent decline from U.S. crude exports in December, according to data by the U.S. Census Bureau. Shipments during January went to Curacao and France, in addition to Canada, the primary destination. The total number of tankers that have set sail with U.S. crude oil will not be known until comprehensive data on Februarys shipments is released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The immediate beneficiaries of the ban suspension are gas and oil companies such as Chevron and Exxon Mobilamong the most tireless lobbyers against the banand oil trading giants such as Vitol Group BV and Trafigura Ltd Pet.

Europe and Asia are flooded with oil from Russia and the Middle East, though the first two shipments to leave the U.S. post-export ban went to Europe: one to Germany and the other to France, to be used in a refinery in Switzerland. Dutch media outlets reported in January that a tanker from Houston had reached Rotterdam port, but this remains just a drop in the global export bucket. Related: China And India Rewrite The Rules Of The Oil And Gas Game

In Asia, even Chinas state-run Sinopecthe worlds second-largest refinerhas imported a consignment of U.S. oil, according to a Reuters source. Japan's Cosmo Oil was the first Asian buyer of U.S. oil, purchasing some 300,000 barrels of U.S. crude in mid-January, which will be delivered to its refineries in mid-April.

The very first South American country that will import U.S. crude oil is Venezuela. In early February, Venezuelas state-run oil company PDVSA imported a 550,000-barrel cargo of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) through its U.S.-based Citgo Petroleum affiliate. Venezuela started importing foreign crudes in 2014 amid a fall in its own production - buying mostly Angolan and Nigerian light grades.

WTI is also expected to be exported to Israel, where Swiss commodities house Trafigura will ship some 700,000 barrels. Atlantic Trading & Marketing, the U.S. trading unit of French Total SA, has been planning an export cargo of U.S. crude from Cushing. Related: Oil Prices Continue To Tumble As Supply Glut Fears Return

Also, earlier this month, Exxon became the first U.S. oil company to export U.S. crude, sending a tanker from Texas to a refinery it owns in Italy.

However, storage is now at the highest level in at least a decade. U.S., crude storage levels hit 487 million barrels in early November, closing in on the 80-year high of 518 million barrels in the last week of February. According to the EIA, about 60 percent of the U.S. working storage capacity is filled.

Globally, the picture isnt much better, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) saying that 1 billion barrels were added to storage in 2015 alone. OPEC has reported that crude oil stockpiles in OECD countries currently exceed the running five-year average by 210 million barrels.

By Charles Kennedy of Oilprice.com

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After a decade long honeymoon period between Russia and Turkey, based on the close personal relationship between Putin and Erdogan, relations between the two countries deteriorated rapidly after Turkey shot down a Russian military plane on November 24th, 2015.

Contrary to popular belief, Russia has come out on top in the tug-of-war over Turkish-Russian energy policies since 2002. Turkey has become extremely dependent on Russian natural gas and oil since then, allowing Russian energy companies to get involved in the Turkish energy sector. Gazprom purchased assets of Turkish energy companies; Rosatom was selected, without any form of bid, to construct Turkey's first nuclear power plant in Mersin-Akkuyu. Related: $40 Billion LNG Project In Australia Cancelled Amid Low Prices

Due to the Ukrainian crisis, the Kremlin began to push the Turkish Stream natural gas pipeline and cancelled the South Stream natural gas pipeline in order to bypass Ukrainian territory. However, the declaration of the Turkish Stream raised another question, whether Turkey was about to become Russia's new Ukraine with regards to controlling pipeline transportation.

Turkey welcomed the Turkish Stream proposal without first examining the benefits and downsides of the project. It was understood that during the election process of June and November 2015, Erdogans AKP party made promises to Russia that they would sign the necessary documents to launch the construction of the Turkish Stream natural gas pipeline project once elected.

However, once elected, Erdogan could not keep his promise to Putin as his party (AKP-Justice and Development Party) were unable to get the necessary majority in the Turkish Parliament to approve the pipeline agreement. Only a few weeks later, Russia made a declaration that it would freeze the Turkish Stream project, and proceeded to send troops to Syria, with the official approval of the Syrian authorities, to fight against terrorist groups. This declaration marked the end of the honeymoon period between Russia and Turkey.

From August 30, 2015, Russia began to send troops and warplanes to Syria, expanding its airbase in Latakia. In doing this, Russia increased its level of aid to the Assad regime, both diplomatically and economically, to a level that Putin was aware would make Erdogan uncomfortable. Russias presence in Syria was universally accepted as legal and, following the Paris attacks, France even requested Russian cooperation to fight against ISIS in Syria.

Squeezing Turkey

Furthermore, Russia and the U.S. harmoniously conducted air operations in Syria. Following the shooting down of a Russian war plane by Turkey, the Kremlin launched a containment and alienation policy towards Turkey in the region, a policy that was executed in six steps. First, the Kremlin organized a presentation in order to accuse Erdogan and his family of taking part in the illegal oil trade with ISIS and aiding fundamentalist Islamic terrorist organizations. Related: Oil Prices Continue To Tumble As Supply Glut Fears Return

Second, Russia influenced Iran, Iraq and Syria to exert diplomatic and economic pressure on Turkey. For example, Russia compelled Iran to ban the re-export of Turkish goods to Russia. Third, Russia launched economic sanctions against Turkey, cancelling visa-free travel and stopping tourism between two countries.

Fourth, Russia acted unanimously with the U.S. concerning Kurdish issues in Syria, challenging Turkish policies. Fifth, Russia withdrew a majority of its military from Syria, strengthening its position in the Syria talks in Geneva. Finally, Russia exerted its geopolitical influence in order to contain Turkeys pipeline aims.

The Russian military is not entirely withdrawing from Syria, maintaining a long-term presence in both its Tartus and Latakia bases. Thus, Russia strengthened the position of Assad, while constructing new ties with both Syrian and Iraqi Kurds, actions that directly conflict with Turkeys geopolitical aims. Erdogan and Barzani have formed a close relationship regarding energy, with Turkey providing significant support for the KRG. Russia has pursued its own relationship with the Iraqi Kurds, supplying them with anti-aircraft weaponry, which it says is to help fight ISIS. The problem with that, from Ankaras perspective, is that ISIS does not possess aircraft  but Turkey does. In short, Russia and the U.S. are developing their relationship with Syrian and Iraqi Kurds separately and, in doing so, are challenging Erdogan's Kurdish policy.

Pipeline politics

Natural gas could be a major factor in the conflict in Syria and between Turkey and Russia. Russia, in an attempt to stop Turkey from transporting Kurdish oil and gas, has strengthened the Assad regimes position on the Mediterranean coast. While this does not prevent the development of new pipeline routes from Northern Iraq to Syria, which would bypass the Kirkuk-Ceyhan oil pipeline and the Turkey-KRG natural gas pipeline, it does reduce the ability of Turkey to import oil and natural gas from Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan. Related: China And India Rewrite The Rules Of The Oil And Gas Game

As long as Russian-backed Syria controls Western Syria and the pipeline ports there, it is still possible to build new pipelines which start in Northern Iraq and end in Syria. Moreover, Turkey was so determined to be part of a Qatar-Turkey natural gas pipeline that it is willing to pass through ISIS dominated Iraqi and Syrian territories. However, Russian military operations and a strengthening Assad regime killed the Qatar-Turkey natural gas pipeline. Finally, the Russian containment policy and military presence in South Turkey triggered Turkey to ally with Israel. For a long time, Erdogan has used an anti-Semitic approach in domestic policy, but Turkeys current lack of allies in the region has caused Erdogan to change his approach. U.S. Vice President Biden recently visited Israel and stated that Erdogan is eager to reconcile with Israel as soon as possible.

Although Erdogan is having trouble explaining his Israeli rapprochement, Ankara expects to sign pipeline agreements with Israel over the Eastern Mediterranean corridor. However, Russia is committed to blocking all the pipeline projects to Turkish territory as long as Erdogan sits in power.

To conclude, Russias intervention in Syria not only served to strengthen the Assad regime and weaken the Islamist extremist groups, but also challenged Turkish security and energy policies.

By Tugce Varol for Oilprice.com

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Following the resolution of a permit issue, Afek Oil & Gas, a subsidiary of American company Genie Energy, has resumed efforts to verify whether or not commercially viable options for oil extraction exist within the Golan Heights region. These drillings are anything but routine, as years of conflict and contestation over the plateau  which was seized by Israel in 1967  have led to profound disagreement over the territorys sovereignty.

As Afek works to uncover what could be a step towards energy independence for Israel, the Israeli leadership is lobbying the United States to change its historical position that the region belongs to Syria. They want the U.S. to support Israels strategic interests in and claims to the Golan Heights, including the development of its natural resources. With the worsening situation in Syria and the need for Syrian rebel support, the United States and the rest of the international community have a delicate task ahead in dealing with the Golan Heights, however, it is likely that Israel will eventually have its way.

Background to the conflict

Strategically, the Golan Heights region is of vital importance to Israel as it sits directly between Syria and Israel, serving as a critical buffer zone between the rebel-run western border of Syria and Israels crucial water resource, the Sea of Galilee.



Related: Canadian Oil Sees Silver Lining To Decline In U.S. Shale

Throughout much of the twentieth century, the area had been subjected to conflict as both Israel and Syria launched numerous offensives in the territory with Israel ultimately occupying it following the Six-Day War. Later, Israel effectively annexed the Golan Heights from the neighboring country of Syria in 1981 when it extended Israeli law to the area.

The international community did not recognize Israels action and the United Nations Security Council put forth Resolution 242 which declared the Golan Heights as occupied territory, a designation that clearly condemned Israels actions and left the regions sovereignty in Syrian hands, a position still held today by the international community, including the United States.

Given the divide that exists between Israeli leadership and the international community over control of the region, an ongoing Syrian civil war next door, and the aforementioned oil efforts, there is an unprecedented level of geopolitical complexity surrounding the Golan Heights and the issue of sovereignty. Russias involvement in the war, the ever-present Palestinian tension, and the precarious situation with Hezbollah, only adds to this complexity and affirms that the implications from any action involving the territory will be felt across a broad spectrum of countries and groups with interests in the region.



Related: Texan Oil Production Rises In January

Recent developments

As the situation in Syria continues to deteriorate, the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has continued to call on both the United States and the international community to reassess their views on the region. In essence, Israels leadership is looking for the global community to acknowledge Israels annexation of the Golan Heights by leveraging the unstable conditions that have resulted from the civil war in Syria, citing the calming influence that Israel has brought to the region and the abolishment of anything remotely close to a working government in Syria as the justification for their claims. Israel has put forth the notion that this is an opportunity for the United States to halt the spread of violence in the region.

While the situation in Syria and with that United States position on the Golan Heights is undoubtedly evolving, the Obama administration has maintained that their current position  that it is occupied territory by Israel  best serves their foreign policy interests in the broader region. A position based on maintaining the support of the Syrian rebels, who may view a U.S. acknowledgment on the Golan Heights as contrary to their views. In focusing on ensuring the support of the Syrian rebels over the concerns of the Israeli leadership, the Obama administrations actions are a testament to the fragility of the situation in Syria and a sign that the United States is not yet comfortable with the progress made in the region.



Related: Oil Prices Beyond WTI And Brent

What to expect?

Afek Oil & Gass list of advisors reads more like a shortlist of the next American Presidents cabinet and includes former vice-president, Dick Cheney, former treasury secretary Larry Summers, former energy secretary Bill Richardson, and James Woolsey, a former CIA director. They will continue their efforts and, if successful, they will help create the momentum needed to advance Israels strategic agenda in the region by capitalizing on the close connections to Washington and the influence of its advisors.

For the short-term, as the outcome of the Syrian civil war remains unclear, the involvement of Russia and the need for the rebel support groups has pitted the interests of the United States against those of Israel, giving the U.S. little to no incentive to expeditiously acknowledge Israels territorial claims in the Golan Heights region.

However, in the longer term, if the situation in Syria becomes calmer, instead of a bona fide acknowledgment by the international community we may simply see a continuation of the status quo: little is being done to oppose the actions or interests of Israel within the Golan Heights region, which in effect would lead to the eventual sourcing of oil by Afek.

By Eric Simmons via Globalriskinsights.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
"Bar Month" at OnMilwaukee is back for another round, brought to you by Great Northern Distilling: grain to glass spirits, handmade in Wisconsin. The whole month of March, we're serving up intoxicatingly fun articles on bars and clubs  including guides, the latest trends, bar reviews, the results of our Best of Bars readers poll and more. Grab a designated driver and dive in!

Back in 2014, Brady Street  with the help of beloved watering holes like The Nomad, Hi-Hat, Jo-Cat's and more  managed to unseat the long-time champion of the title of Milwaukee's best bar district. However, they'd only have one year to celebrate, as after sharing the love in 2014, OnMilwaukee readers last year once again handed the title to the previous five-time best bar district winner Bay View  and, in 2016, they've done it again.

In the two district race for the top spot, Bay View finished over 150 votes ahead of Brady Street thanks to a neighborhood filled with fine establishments  Burnhearts, Boone & Crockett, Cactus Club, Club Garibaldi, Tonic Tavern, 2016 best beer list winner Sugar Maple, 2016 best LGBT bar winner Hamburger Mary's and many more  to meet up, have a tasty drink, maybe see a local band and have more tasty drinks.

The ever-growing Walker's Point bar scene  once again selected as the editors' pick  finished in a distant third, while Old World Third Street and Third Ward rounded out the top five.

No matter where you end up in Milwaukee, however, there's sure to be a solid bar waiting for you.

OnMilwaukee editors' pick: Walker's Point



Runners-up:

2. Brady Street

3. Walker's Point

4. Old World Third Street

5. Third Ward


Editors note: This is one in an occasional Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service series on "20-somethings" in Milwaukee.

Jafar Banda calls it living a fast life. If his parents couldnt give him money, he would make it himself by dealing marijuana, heroin and crack cocaine. He started selling at age 13 after seeing his dad use drugs. At 18, he was sentenced to a year in jail for selling heroin.

Banda, now 28, is a senior majoring in community engagement at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He hopes to eventually enter the political arena, but these days, his main goal is reforming the states criminal justice system.

In particular, Banda wants to promote second chances for people who have been jailed for nonviolent offenses, so they too can "reach the highest quality of life."

Banda is president of a UWM student group, Community Uprise, which focuses on ending discrimination against nonviolent offenders. For him, its a civil rights movement  particularly in Wisconsin, where more black men are incarcerated than in any other state.

"I was involved in a drug offense where nobody was harmed, no guns were involved, nobody was shot," he said, adding with a mix of repentance and exasperation, "I have to suffer for the rest of my life as if I killed somebody, when I was only selling drugs because I didnt have a family to take care of me, and I was just trying to survive."

After his arrest in 2007, Banda began to take education seriously while inside the Milwaukee House of Corrections, earning his GED thanks to an alternative youth program. Upon his release from jail, he decided to make a change in his life.

"I wanted to figure out how can I be successful without selling drugs," he said.

Banda began taking classes at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) and soon after enrolled at UWM. He was denied student housing, however, because of his criminal record. It felt like "being treated like an alien," he said.

"A lot of felons cant even rent a house, even if they have a higher-paying job than the average living wage. Its almost like when you are a felon the odds are stacked against you."

UWM professor Florence Johnson recalls Banda being homeless and said he "wasnt wearing proper clothing" when she met him in her class, "The Milwaukee Community."

Johnson took Banda to a Goodwill store and bought him clothing. She also became a mentor, helping him to write grants and bring Michelle Alexander  a noted civil rights lawyer and author of "The New Jim Crow"  to campus as a lecturer. Johnson also helped Banda meet with local and state officials such as Mayor Tom Barrett, state Sen. Chris Larson and Milwaukee County Supervisor Supreme Moore Omokunde.

"He doesnt have many people in his life," Johnson said. "I play the role of mother, provider and adviser. He keeps me in the loop with everything he does."

Mark Rice, a doctoral student at UWM and president of Ex-Prisoners Organizing (EXPO), a community organization, said Banda is committed to ending discrimination against felons, calling him resilient and unwilling to let anything stop him.

"He has completely turned his life around," Rice said. "Hes been through a drug conviction and is now committed to changing the system."

Banda expects to graduate from UWM in December, after which he plans to continue making a difference for those suffering inequality in Milwaukee.

"I want to be able to prevent many black boys from facing the challenges I endured," he said.

"I regret (selling drugs) every day," he added. "I honestly just wanted to make a dramatic change for people living in poverty and for people who are felons. I dont want to suffer the rest of my life for being a felon."
Spring is here! Look and feel your best with some of our favorite beauty #WeWants!

Cleanse with it: Desert Essence Jojoba Oil

It may sound crazy, but you should try cleansing your face with this oil. I started doing it a few months back and have never looked back. There are a ton of articles out there on why you should actually cleanse with oil; just google it (spoiler: oil draws out oil). I mix this Desert Essence Jojoba Oil with castor oil and a little bit of tea tree oil for my morning cleansing method. Give it a try; you may just love it as much as I do.



While I am still in shock summer is actually almost here, we did have two days near 80 degrees this week, miracles happen! Which means heat, humidity and sweat can take a toll on my hair. My new miracle in a can is Not Your Mother's Clean Freak Dry Shampoo. I've tried plenty of dry shampoos, and more take the shine out of your hair and some can have a weird smell. I tried out this dry shampoo and was instantly in love. While adding volume and keeping my shine, it soaked up all the oil and kept my style. Hallelujah.



Winter has worked over my lips this year. I can feel the shift in my skin and lips, maybe you can too! You will rarely find me without Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in my bag during the colder months and you should certainly it to yours too. My favorite color is the red dahlia, but I also really like the hibiscus.

Clean with it: Brushegg

Every time I use one of my makeup brushes I cringe thinking of the crud, dead skin and germs in it. The solution for me? The original BrushEgg. This handy little silicone egg shaped thingy gets makeup brushes clean and even helps maintain them. Bonus, those brushes may actually last longer if you do take care of them! I like the aqua one, but I'm not adverse to the pink.

Spritz it: Calvin Klein Forbidden Euphoria



I've worn Calvin Klein Euphoria for a number of years and it is still one of my favorites to spritz on. Earlier this week my coffee barista asked if I was wearing it -- and I proudly said yes. She asked if I had tried the newer version  Calvin Klein Forbidden Euphoria  and I had to admit I hadn't but told her I would! I'm always skeptical on a remake - but the Forbidden Euphoria apparently is a more modern younger interpretation of the original. I'm not against feeling younger, so I will be trying this soon.

Brush with it: Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

It almost feels utterly ridiculous to write this. I mean, it is a toothbrush that is almost $200. Yes, you read that correctly. $200. The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean is apparently the toothbrush of choice for "those people" such as the Kardashians, Kanye, well ... you get the point. Even though I would probably laugh at anybody who ever told me they were going to spend that ridiculous amount on a toothbrush, I can't wait to get one.

Why, you ask? The reviews. This apparent magic wand of toothbrushes is nothing short of amazing. I will feel like I've been to a dentist for a through cleaning every time I use it? Sign me up. Plus, this bad boy has patented sonic technology that drives fluid to stimulate the gums through five brushing modes: clean, white, polish, gum care and sensitive. Umm, there is a quad-pacer that helps to ensure thorough brushing throughout the mouth! You even get a charger and a case! Well, I better at this price point.

Wash with it: Bioderma



This is a product that is ubiquitous in the French pharmacies and has a huge cult following here in the states but is not easy to find in stores. The product has no scent and the texture is remarkably like water! It's different from the typical cleanser/makeup remover because there's no need to wash your face after you use this. You simply soak on a cotton pad, wipe and you're good to go. I am no scientist and don't really know what micellization is, but whatever it is, it makes for an amazing cleanser.

Use it: Tonymoly Egg Pore Special 3Pcs Set

I'm not going to lie, I'm obsessed with Korean skin care products. And, if I could travel to Seoul just for a beauty shopping trip I absolutely would! But ... life happens and that trip just isn't a reality right now. So, instead I shop. Koreans are serious about their skin care -- and I am serious about these gel filled eggs. The trio of eggs is a great way to sample some of the "must have" products available in Korea and includes a blackhead scrub, clay mask and a balm type of primer. And at $33, these adorable eggs are way less than the flight to Korea!

Use it: LUSH Brazened Honey



If you haven't tried a "fresh" product from LUSH  you absolutely should. I've been trying variations of home masks for a while and I especially love the properties of honey and how it makes my skin feel so when a friend mentioned this "fresh" mask by LUSH  I knew I had to try it and save myself the work of having to put it together at home. I love that LUSH has some of the best of the best "fresh" ingredients  honey, eggs, turmeric, ginger, fennel, coriander, cardamom  and uses them in combination to create this mask. All of these ingredients come together in the mask to create a combination that really energizes and invigorates the skin. The "fresh" masks  which you can only get in store (Mayfair, $6.95) and not online -- last for about three weeks and should be refrigerated. I did find it wasn't the most moisturizing afterwards  so add some of your favorite hydrator afterwards.

Put it on: Younique 3D Mascara and more

A few months back one of my friends highly recommended that I try out the brand Younique's 3D Mascara. I reached to Tiffany Ingelse, Younique Independent Presenter, to see what all the fuss was about. Luckily, I was able to try a few different products from Younique -- and they were some of the best products I've tried all year.



My favorite by far just also happens to be Younique's best selling product -- the 3D Fiber Lashes Mascara Set. The duo includes a gel base you apply first and then layer on the 3D Fibers. Wow. I'm a convert. It can take a little bit of getting used to -- the trick is to apply the 3D only on the outer half of lashes -- but I am now using this daily. I swore I would only use it for special occasions and weekends, but I can't go back to my plain ole mascara now.



The other products I tested out were the Glorious Face & Eye Primer, Lucrative Lip Gloss and Beachfront Bronzer. I've used all of them off and on for a few weeks now, and all are great products. I'll be putting in a reorder on that Glorious primer for sure.
Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121

"Rob explores the difference between a natural, organic, bottom-up connection consciousness and our corporately imposed top-down hierarchical collective consciousness. What Rob is speaking about is the difference between an artificial and ultimately stagnate way of organizing the world and a natural, organic growth, which starts with a seed, sends downs roots and sends up shoots which blossom. By returning to a Nature-based theory of connection, the Bottom-Up revolution brings us back into alignment with Earths laws, returning humanity to its place in creation. Like a good gardener, Rob works into the soil of his thesis different voices that exemplify how this Bottom-Up revolution is expanding in politics, business, religion, personal self-awareness and story. And he places technology where it belongsas a tool to further our connection consciousness, not an end in itself. The bottom-up revolution is about democracy finally living up to its original ideals, where we the people decide what we need from our society."



Cathy Pagano, author of Wisdoms Daughters: How Women Can Change the World
"it is the privilege of a trader in a free country, in all matters not contrary to law, to regulate his own mode of carrying it on according to his own discretion and choice. If the law has regulated or restrained his mode of doing this, the law must be obeyed. But no power short of the general law ought to restrain his free discretion."

Restraint of trade is a common-law doctrine relating to the enforceability of contractual restrictions on freedom to conduct business. It is a precursor of modern competition law. In an old leading case of Mitchel v Reynolds (1711) Lord Smith LC said,[Mitchel v Reynolds (1711) 1 P Wms 181] The law early recognized that a trader could control the distribution of the products or services he offered and completely restrict competitive access to the market. Indeed the Constitution recognizes congressional authority to authorize this in limited areas for limited time periods to encourage innovation and originality: Article 1 Section 8 provides in pertinent part that Congress has the power to pass laws "To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries;..." But the Constitution does not appear to grant Congress the authority to restrain trade or commerce by recognizing in private persons the nobility rights in the form of the power of plutocracies, oligarchies or aristocracies to exercise the private right to restrain trade either by law or treaty as that is prohibited to the United States by Article 1 Section 9 of the Constitution In fact Congress has attempted to prohibit such activity. The first significant attempt to regulate interstate commerce was authored by John Sherman, a Republican from Ohio in the 1890 Sherman Anti-Trust Act. In the US, the first significant discussion of this act occurred in the Sixth Circuit's opinion by Chief Judge (later US President, 1908-1913 and still later appointed by President Warren G. Harding in 1921 as the Supreme Court Chief Justice) William Howard Taft, a Republican, in 1898 in United States v. Addyston Pipe & Steel Co. Taft was the chosen successor of Theodore Roosevelt, a Republican. Judge Taft explained the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 as a statutory codification of the English common-law doctrine of restraint of trade, as explicated in such cases as Mitchel v Reynolds. The court distinguished between naked restraints of trade and those ancillary to the legitimate main purpose of a lawful contract and reasonably necessary to effectuation of that purpose. An example of the latter would be a non-competition clause associated with the lease or sale of a bakeshop, as in the Mitchel case. Such a contract should be tested by a "rule of reason," meaning that it should be deemed legitimate if "necessary and ancillary." An example of the naked type of restraint would be the price-fixing and bid-allocation agreements involved in the Addyston case. Taft said that "we do not think there is any question of reasonableness open to the courts to such a contract." The Supreme Court affirmed the judgment. During the following century, the Addyston Pipe opinion of Judge Taft has remained foundational in antitrust analysis.John D. Rockefeller of Standard Oil, James B. Duke of the tobacco industry, and J. Pierpont Morgan of railroad fame became the targets of Teddy Roosevelt as president, who was soon to earn the name of Trust Buster. John D. Rockefeller during this time could see the potentials in the oil industry and to overcome the price fixing of certain railroads that he could not dominate, he started building pipe lines, Eventually he came to control the market through monopoly ownership. Even Republicans thought poorly of this. As more recently, proved by Bernie Madoff, one does not steal from the rich and as proven as early as the American Revolution ( The Cornerstone Brief ) with impunity.Our point is, regardless of party platforms of the major parties and Ronald Reagan, fair markets, and not free and unbridled, markets have continued to be the rule in the United States and the question the voter must decide is who is going to do the most to preserve the consumer's rights in a fair market.
Reprinted from Dispatches From The Edge

The year 2016 is the 100th anniversary of the Irish Easter Rebellion. Throughout the year I will try to revisit some of the lessons of Ireland's struggle for freedom.

Bombs explode in a subway. The victims are everyday people who happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. What follows is outrage: track down the perpetuators. The people who set off the bombs are monsters and inhuman fanatics, thunder the authorities.

But the year is not 2016, it is 1883 during the "Dynamite War" waged by mainly Irish-American members of the Fenians against the English occupation of Ireland. The Fenian Brotherhood was founded in 1848. The "War" targeted the underground, train stations, city halls, public plazas, and factories in London, Manchester, and Liverpool. The war spanned four years, and in the light of the current terrorist attacks in the Middle East and Europe, it is an instructive comparison.

On one level there is no similarity. The "Dynamite War" killed and injured very few people, while terrorist attacks and bombs in Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Egypt, France and Belgium have murdered hundreds and wounded thousands. It is also hard to compare John Devoy and Patrick Tynan of the Fenians to the likes of the Islamic State's Abu-Bakr al-Baghdadi and Abu Muslim al-Turkmani.

Yet there is an historical lesson here, and we ignore it at our peril. Terrorism is a difficult subject to talk about because anything other than outrage seems like one is making an excuse for unspeakably heinous acts. And yet if we are to seriously look for solutions, that requires asking "why," even if the answers are uncomfortable.

There are certainly easy "solutions" out there: occupy Muslim communities and torture suspects we arrest. Unleash yet more drones, carpet bomb the bastards, and, if necessary, send in the Marines. But that is exactly what we have doing for the past three decades, and is there anyone who would seriously argue that things are better now than they were in 1981?

Did the invasion of Afghanistan muzzle terrorism? A decade and a half later, we are still at war in that poor benighted country, and the terrorism that we experienced on 9/11 has spread to Madrid, Paris, Beirut, Ankara, Cairo, Brussels, Damascus, Baghdad, and other cities. We sowed the wind in Somalia, Iraq, Libya, Yemen and Syria. Did we expect to reap less than a whirlwind?

In his book "Blowback," the late Chalmers Johnson chronicled the ricochets from American foreign policy. We raised up the Mujahedeen in Afghanistan to defeat the Russians and helped create Osama bin Laden. We ally ourselves with Saudi Arabia, the country that supplied most of the people who flew those airplanes into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, whose reactionary brand of Islam has helped create an army of jihadists worldwide.
By Steve Buckstein

Last week, Barack Obama became the first U.S. President in nearly 90 years to visit the country of Cuba. While security concerns may have prevented him staying in a private home rented through Airbnb, he would have had some 2,700 such homes to choose from in Havana alone.

The amazing thing is that Cuba is a communist country, yet it allows short-term room rental services to operate, while some major American cities such as Atlanta, Denver, and Los Angeles do not.

While the American President likely rode through the streets of Havana in his own armored limousine, he apparently could have ridden in one of those iconic 57 Chevys if the driver had one of the still rare and expensive Cuban email accounts. Such ride-sharing services are also allowed in Havana, while Uber and Lyft are still fighting powerful taxi monopolies in some American cities.

We can have legitimate disagreements about normalizing diplomatic and economic relations with Cuba; but we should applaud the movement toward private home ownership and use, and the entrepreneurial opportunities its communist government now allows.

It will be ironic if Cuba comes into the modern free-market era at the same time that some American politicians try to impose more government restrictions on the very economic freedoms that many Cuban refugees risked their lives to achieve by coming here.

Steve Buckstein is Founder and Senior Policy Analyst at Cascade Policy Institute, Oregons free market public policy research organization.
Army took over Red Zone in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Around 10,000 people protesting the execution of Mumtaz Qadri  a former Punjab police commando hanged last month for assassinating Punjab governor Salman Taseer  breached Islamabad's Red Zone Sunday evening.



The government has called in the army to control the law and order situation in the capital.



The protesters are staging a sit-in outside the Parliament and have refused to clear the area unless their demands - which include the imposition of Shariah law in Pakistan - are met. The demonstration that started early Sunday evening is still underway early Monday morning, although the crowd has diminished from 10,000 to around 3,000 protesters.



They removed containers and blockades on the way to the Parliament House and also set some containers to fire before staging a sit-in outside the building, where fiery anti-government speeches are being delivered.



Earlier in the day, riot police used tear gas and batons to disperse the stone-pelting crowd from the high-security zone outside the parliament building.



More than 25,000 people had gathered in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh early Sunday to participate in the chehlum of Qadri.The crowd then turned towards the heavily-barricaded capital city, which was patrolled by hundreds of police and paramilitary soldiers.



Several major arteries leading to Islamabad were closed by authorities to block the crowd's route.



There were reports on local media that cellular services were suspended in the Red Zone and adjoining areas before dawn on Monday.



Earlier in the day, the protest was almost entirely ignored by the media, which has increasingly become subject to government-ordered news blackouts designed to prevent unrest from spiralling out of control.



Regulatory body Pemra cautioned channels against jeopardising the National Action Plan and said they should avoid coverage driven by crass commercialisation like in India.



Qadri was working as a bodyguard for Punjab governor Salmaan Taseer when he shot him 29 times in 2011 over the governor's call to reform the blasphemy law, which critics say is frequently misused to oppress religious minorities.



Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in Pakistan, where even unproven allegations can stir mob violence and lynchings.



Critics including European governments say the country's blasphemy laws are often misused to settle personal scores.



Around 80 to 100 protesters belonging to a religious party, Anjuman Tulba Islam (ATI), attacked the Karachi Press Club (KPC) Sunday afternoon where they resorted to aerial firing, manhandled journalists and set a vehicle belonging to Jaag TV on fire, officials and eye witnesses said.



The ATI workers were protesting on the occasion of Mumtaz Qadris chehlum, said Saddar Deputy Superintendent of Police Kunwar Asif.



The police officer claimed protesters carried pictures of Mumtaz Qadri and attacked a few camera persons at the Press Club over lack of coverage of their event.



The protesters would be booked under the anti-terror act, he said.



KPC secretary A.H. Khanzada, addressing an emergency meeting of journalists inside the premises, announced boycott of ATI and its mother organisation, Jamiat Ulema Pakistan, till their leaders seek an apology and compensate the damages.



The KPC secretary said a meeting of the Press Clubs governing body will be held Monday to deliberate the possibility of banning rallies outside the club.



ATI Karachi leader, Hissan Amini, however denied that his party workers were involved in the violence.
Modi griefed after Lahore park attack

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE  Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday phoned Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and conveyed his deep grief and sorrow over the Lahore blast incident.



He expressed solidarity with the Pakistani nation in this hour of grief, said PM Office media wing. Prime Minister Modi said that coward terrorists had targeted females and kids which was highly condemnable and regrettable.



In a condolence message, former prime minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani strongly condemned Lahore blast, which caused loss of several lives. He expressed his condolence with the families of the deceased and prayed for the early recovery of those injured in the blast.



In a press statement, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto condemned suicide attack in Lahore's Gulshan-e-Iqbal park. He said such cowardly attacks won't be able to quell the commitment and valour of the nation to fight the monster of terrorism.



He pointed out that such attacks by terrorists in Punjab require stern action. He expressed sympathies with those who lost their loved ones in the attack and asked the government for best possible medical facilities to the injured.



In a statement, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Pervaiz Rashid strongly condemned the blast incident, and said that terrorists were enemies of the state and the government would not let them succeed in their nefarious designs. He expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives and prayed for the early recovery of the injured.



Punjab Minister for Law Rana Sanaullah strongly condemned Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park blast, and expressed deep grief and sorrow over loss of precious human lives. He said that the nation and law enforcement agencies would not take rest until the elimination of last terrorist. He said that cowardly acts of terrorists could not shake the determination of the nation against terrorism.



Former interior minister Senator Rehman Malik strongly condemned incident in which innocent people were killed and injured. He also expressed his condolence with the families of the deceased and prayed for the early recovery of those injured in the blast.



Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana strongly condemned the incident of terrorism at Gulshan-e-Iqbal park Lahore and expressed sorrow over loss of precious human lives in the incident. He said enemies cannot shake our resolve and morale. "We are committed to end terrorism from the country." He said the nation was committed to foil nefarious designs of the enemy.

Addressing a press conference here, Punjab governments spokesman Syed Zaeem Hussain Qadri said that Punjab chief minister had announced three days mourning over the tragic incident of blast at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park.



He said Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif himself was monitoring the situation regarding the incident. Provincial ministers and elected members had been directed to visit hospitals to make sure that proper and free treatment facilities are provided to the injured, he said.



He said the counter terrorism department was working against terrorism and arrested many terrorists. He said coward acts of terrorists could not affect morale, adding that war against terrorism would continue till the elimination of the last terrorist.

Federal Minister for Finance Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar expressed profound grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in Lahore bomb blast. He also expressed sympathies with the injured persons. He also sympathized with the families who have lost their dear and near ones in the blast.



Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabani and Deputy Chairman Senate Abdul Ghafoor Haideri strongly condemned bomb blast in Lahore Gulshan-e-Iqbal. Pakistan Tehreek Insaf (PTI) leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi strongly condemned the bomb blast, and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of innocent lives in the bomb blast.
More than 70 ppl died in Lahore park attack

LAHORE: More than 70 people were killed in a suicide attack in Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park of Allama Iqbal Town on Sunday evening, rescue sources said. Hospital sources added that over 250 were injured. The attack was claimed by the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan Jamaatul Ahrar.



Iqbal Town Superintendent Police Dr Muhammad Iqbal confirmed this was a suicide attack that took place at a children's park, where a large number of families, especially women and children, were present.



The area is a renowned residential area of Lahore. The blast was just outside the exit gate and a few feet (metres) away from the children's swings.



DCO Captain (Retd) Muhammad Usman said the head of the suicide bomber was recovered. Ball bearings were also found at the site.



Eye witnesses said there were pools of blood and scattered body parts spread across the site of the attack.



Witnesses said they could hear children screaming as people carried the injured in their arms, while frantic relatives searched for loved ones in nightmarish scenes at the park near the centre of the city.



"We took the injured to hospitals on rickshaws and taxis," one eye witness said. He added that the crowd was "unusually large" because of Easter."The roads were also jammed and queues of vehicles could be seen till Moon Market."



Doctors described frenzied scenes at hospitals, with staff treating casualties on floors and in corridors, as officials tweeted calls for blood donations.



Javed Ali, a 35-year-old who lives opposite the park, said the force of the blast had shattered his home's windows.



After ten minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances.



Yousaf Masih, a father who was searching for his family, told AFP: My kids came here (to the park). I was at home, I saw the news on TV, but my wife and children were here.



Many eyewitnesses said there was no security present in and around the park.An eye witness said, "The park is huge and has many entrance gates. There were almost no security personnel present there."



A Rescue 1122 spokesman confirmed that an emergency call was received at around 6:44pm and that over 20 ambulances had been sent to the site at the time An emergency was declared at all government hospitals in the city.



Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif chaired a high-level meeting late Sunday night, which was attended by heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence (MI) among other military officials, said Lt Gen Asim Bajwa on Twitter. The army chief ordered concerned commanders and intelligence officials to immediately start operations to nab perpetrators of the attack, said Bajwa.
Pakistan to send reference to Iran seeking investigation into presence of RAW agent

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will send a formal reference to Iran seeking investigation into presence of the Indian spy agency, Research and Analysis Wing, in Chabahar and influx of its agents into Balochistan and other parts of Pakistan.



According to sources, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan raised the issue with his Iranian counterpart Abdul Raza Rehmani at a meeting on Saturday and the latter asked the former to send a formal reference in this regard.



We will send a formal reference to Iran in a day or two to get information that may help investigate the matter, a spokesman of the interior ministry told Dawn on Sunday.



Security agencies captured a RAW agent, Kulbhushan Yadav, from Balochistan who possessed an Indian identity card with his name as Mubarak Hussain Patel.



According to media reports, the RAW network was being operated from Chabahar Port.



In the reference, Pakistan will ask Iran how Indian spy agencys network was being operated in Chabahar and one of its agents had come to Pakistan via Iranian border, the interior ministry spokesman said.
Pakistan will ensure security of the borders between Iran and Pakistan: Abdul Qadir Baloch

ISLAMABAD: Minister for States and Frontier Region Lt General (r) Abdul Qadir Baloch has said Pakistan will ensure security of the bordering areas between Iran and Pakistan.



Talking to Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), he said Pakistan could ensure desirable security for anything which had to travel on ground between Iran and Pakistan. Iran is capable of taking care of problems at its end and we are capable of handling the problems on our side, he added. The minister said the visit of Iranian president would boost the economy of the both countries. Baloch said the major issue of Afghan refugees had also discussed between Pakistan and Iran during President Hassan Rouhanis visit.



We need to have a combined strategy to handle the situation of Afghan refugees and this might get discussed between the two sides, he added. To a question, he said, There is a lot of improvement on bordering areas of Pakistan and good cooperation is going on between Pakistan and Afghanistan and also between Iran and Pakistan. He said if peace was to be brought back to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran both will have to put their hands together and help Afghanistan to come out of this turmoil. To a question, he said Pakistan had no territorial disputes with Iran and there were no ideological differences between the two.



They were bound by cultural as well as historical relationship, he added. He said Pakistan and Iran were close neighbours and both could benefit from each others resources. We have the manpower and very good areas where investments could take place whereas we can benefit a lot from Iran in energy sector, he said. He stated that Pakistani agriculture sector was quite strong and could export rice and fruits like oranges to Iran. Other than agriculture we can export livestock, as it offers a big scope for economic cooperation, he added.
Rulers in Punjab embezzled billion of rupees: Sardar Latif Khosa

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party Secretary General and former Punjab governor Sardar Latif Khosa has said that the rulers in Punjab have embezzled billion of rupees in projects like Sasti Roti, Danish Schools, LNG project, Nandipur power plant, metro bus and orange train, and demanded NAB action over this. The rulers of Punjab are not sacred cows that no one can even raise a finger at them. Why is Rangers not given special powers in the province? Why is it carrying out an operation in Sindh only? he asked.



The PPP leader said the government sent Pervez Musharraf abroad for some other reason but is attributing his exit to the court. As a matter of fact the court never asked for sending the former dictator out of country. He told this reporter that attorney general of Pakistan had stated in the court that Musharrafs name was put on in the Exit Control List on the orders of the court in 2013, but the court said it has already given its verdict in the case and after that it was the prerogative of the government to either keep Musharrafs name on the ECL or allow him to fly overseas.



He said that it was for the first time ever in the history of the country that a president (Musharraf) who was also the army chief was forced to leave both offices and this all happened due to the political vision of Asif Zardari.  The final decision regarding the reorganisation of PPP would be taken by the Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the party, he added. Khosa said the PML-N is in the bad habit of lying to the nation. PPP did not give a red carpet departure to Musharraf rather forced him to resign. He said it was the PPP that took away the powers of the president to send the government home and returned it to parliament and people.
This 100-million-year-old biting midge, preserved in amber, shows numerous oocysts of the malarial parasite Paleohaemoproteusburmacis, evidence of the oldest ancestral strain of malaria ever discovered. Credit: George Poinar, Jr., courtesy of Oregon State University

A new analysis of the prehistoric origin of malaria suggests that it evolved in insects at least 100 million years ago, and the first vertebrate hosts of this disease were probably reptiles, which at that time would have included the dinosaurs.

Malaria, a scourge on human society that still kills more than 400,000 people a year, is often thought to be of more modern origin - ranging from 15,000 to 8 million years old, caused primarily by one genus of protozoa, Plasmodium, and spread by anopheline mosquitoes.

But the ancestral forms of this disease used different insect vectors and different malarial strains, and may literally have helped shape animal survival and evolution on Earth, according to George Poinar, Jr., a researcher in the College of Science at Oregon State University.

Poinar suggested in the journal American Entomologist that the origins of this deadly disease, which today can infect animals ranging from humans and other mammals to birds and reptiles, may have begun in an insect such as the biting midge more than 100 million years ago. And in previous work, Poinar and his wife, Roberta, implicated malaria and the evolution of blood-sucking insects as disease vectors that could have played a significant role in the extinction of the dinosaurs.

This 15- to 20-million-year-old mosquito Culex malariager, was discovered in the Dominican Republic preserved in amber, and is infected with the malarial parasite Plasmodium dominicana. It's the oldest known fossil showing Plasmodium malaria, related to the type that today infects humans. Credit: George Poinar, Jr., courtesy of Oregon State University

"Scientists have argued and disagreed for a long time about how malaria evolved and how old it is," Poinar said. "I think the fossil evidence shows that modern malaria vectored by mosquitoes is at least 20 million years old, and earlier forms of the disease, carried by biting midges, are at least 100 million years old and probably much older."

Since the sexual reproduction stage of malaria only occurs in insects, Poinar said in the new study that they must be considered the primary hosts of the disease, not the vertebrate animals that they infect with disease-causing protozoa. And he believes the evidence points toward the Gregarinida as a protozoan parasite group that could have been the progenitors of malaria, since they readily infect the insects that vector malaria today.

Understanding the ancient history of malaria evolution, Poinar said, might offer clues to how its modern-day life cycle works, how it evolved, and what might make possible targets to interrupt its transmission through its most common vector, the Anopheles mosquito.

Understanding the evolution of malaria also takes one on a worldwide journey, according to evidence found in insects preserved in amber. Poinar is an international expert in using plant and animal life forms preserved in this semi-precious stone to help learn more about the biology and ecology of the distant past.

Poinar was the first to discover a type of malaria in a 15-20 million-year-old fossil from the New World, in what is now the Dominican Republic. It was the first fossil record of Plasmodium malaria, one type of which is now the strain that infects and kills humans.

Even further back, malaria may have been one of the diseases that arose, along with the evolution of insects, and had a huge impact on animal evolution. In a 2007 book, "What Bugged the Dinosaurs? Insects, Disease and Death in the Cretaceous," George and Roberta Poinar argued that insects carried diseases that contributed to the widespread extinction of the dinosaurs around the "K-T boundary" about 65 million years ago.

"There were catastrophic events known to have happened around that time, such as asteroid impacts and lava flows," Poinar said. "But it's still clear that dinosaurs declined and slowly became extinct over thousands of years, which suggests other issues must also have been at work. Insects, microbial pathogens and vertebrate diseases were just emerging around that same time, including malaria."

Avian malaria has been implicated in the extinction of many bird species in Hawaii just in recent decades, especially in species with no natural resistance to the disease. Different forms of malaria, which is now known to be an ancient disease, may have been at work many millions of years ago and probably had other implications affecting the outcome of vertebrate survival, Poinar said.

The first human recording of malaria was in China in 2,700 B.C., and some researchers say it may have helped lead to the fall of the Roman Empire. In 2015 there were 214 million cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Immunity does not occur naturally and the search for a vaccine has not yet been achieved.

Explore further Bacteria in ancient flea may be ancestor of the Black Death
In this undated photo provided by Parks Canada, a bison and it's calf roam in a section of the Elk Island National Park, Canada. Descendants of a bison herd captured and sent to Canada more than 140 years ago will be relocated to a Montana American Indian reservation. (Parks Canada via AP)

Descendants of a bison herd captured and sent to Canada more than a century ago will be relocated to a Montana American Indian reservation next month, in what tribal leaders bill as a homecoming for a species emblematic of their traditions.

The shipment of animals from Alberta's Elk Island National Park to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation follows a 2014 treaty among tribes in the United States and Canada. That agreement aims to restore bison to areas of the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains where millions once roamed.

"For thousands of years the Blackfeet lived among the buffalo here. The buffalo sustained our way of life, provided our food, clothing, shelter," Blackfeet Chairman Harry Barnes said. "It became part of our spiritual being. We want to return the buffalo."

The 89 plains bison, also known as buffalo, will form the nucleus of a herd that tribal leaders envision will soon roam freely across a vast landscape: the Blackfeet reservation, nearby Glacier National Park and the Badger-Two Medicine wildernessmore than 4,000 square miles combined.

Bison were hunted to near-extinction in the late 1800s as European settlers advanced across the once-open American West.

Most of the animals that survive today are in commercial herds, raised for their meat and typically interbred with cattle. The Blackfeet have a commercial bison herd established in 1972 that numbers more than 400 animals.

In this undated photo provided by Parks Canada a plains bison herd roam in a section of the Elk Island National Park, Canada. Descendants of a bison herd captured and sent to Canada more than 140 years ago will be relocated to a Montana American Indian reservation. (Parks Canada via AP)

The lineage of Elk Island's bison, which experts say are free of cattle genes, traces back to a small group of animals captured by several American Indians on Blackfeet land just south of Canada.

Those bison were later sold to two men, Charles Allard and Michel Pablo, who formed what became known as the Pablo-Allard herd. By the early 1900s, the Pablo-Allard herd was said to be the largest collection of the animals remaining in the U.S.

After U.S. officials rejected a sale offer from Pablo, the Canadian government purchased most of the bison. The animals were then shipped train from Ravalli, Montana, to Elk Island, according to park officials and Western historians.

"They've made a big circle, but now they're coming home," said Ervin Carlson, a Blackfeet member and president of the Intertribal Buffalo Council.

In this undated photo provided by Montana Historical Society Photograph Archives from a stereograph shows a bison being unloaded at a stockyard in Ravalli, Mont. The animal was part of the Pablo-Allard herd that survived overhunting of the species in the late 1800s and was later sold to the Canadian government. (Montana Historical Society Photograph Archives via AP)

The relocation comes as the restoration of genetically-pure bison to the West's grasslands and forests have gained traction. The efforts include the relocation of some genetically-pure bison from Yellowstone National Park to two Indian reservations in eastern and central Montana.

The tribesthe Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation and the Assiniboine and Gros Ventre Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservationsare signatories to the 2014 treaty. But ranchers and landowners near the reservations have strongly opposed the tribes' plans, driven by concerns over disease and the prospect of bison competing with cattle for grass.

Brucellosis, the disease found in Yellowstone's bison herds, is absent from Canada's Elk Island, according to the park's superintendent, Stephen Flemming.

"The difficulty (with Yellowstone bison) is the stigma attached to them. In this case, the animals (coming from Canada) have never been exposed to brucellosis," said Keith Aune with the Wildlife Conservation Society, which has been working with the Blackfeet on their bison program.

Over the past five years, Flemming said, about 180 Elk Island bison were relocated to form a private herd maintained by the American Prairie Reserve, which controls a large area between the Fort Peck and Fort Belknap reservations. Those animals, too, have met some resistance from ranchers, but the absence of brucellosis has largely neutralized that issue as a point of contention.

The Blackfeet will loan 20 of the Elk Island bison to the Oakland Zoo in California for a special exhibit slated to open this fall, according to tribal officials and the zoo's president, Joel Parrott.

Offspring from the animals would be returned to Montana, and there are plans to promote eco-tours to the Blackfeet Reservation among zoo patrons.

"Bison historically are native California animals, too," Parrott said. "We're going to highlight the efforts of the Blackfeet. A big part of this which is so unique is the return of buffalo to tribal lands after all these years."

Explore further Yellowstone bison sent to slaughter as park trims herd

 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
The coordinated suicide bombings that killed at least 30 people and wounded hundreds more at an international airport and downtown subway station in Brussels on Tuesday were "shocking but not surprising" and shared many of the hallmarks of previous European terror attacks, according to Stanford terrorism experts.

"My research shows that in general, terrorist plots in Europe involve larger numbers of conspirators than do plots in the United States," said Martha Crenshaw, a senior fellow at Stanford's Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC).

Belgian authorities said as many as five people may have been involved in the bombings, including two Belgian-born brothers with violent criminal records, and that several suspects were linked to the terrorist network that carried out the deadly Paris attacks last November.

"It is common for terrorist conspiracies anywhere to be formed from prior social groupings  friends and relatives," Crenshaw said.

"The bonds that link individuals are not entirely ideological by any means. Criminal backgrounds are also not surprising. Indeed, prison radicalization is a well-known phenomenon."

A notorious neighborhood

Many of the suspects in the Brussels bombings had ties to the inner-city neighborhood of Molenbeek, a majority Muslim enclave of mostly Moroccan descent with a long history as a logistical base for jihadists.

French and Belgian police arrested Salah Abdeslam, who had been identified as the last surviving member of the 10-man team responsible for the Paris attacks and an apparent associate of the Brussels bombers, near his family home in Molenbeek just four days before the Brussels attacks.

"Brussels and particularly Molenbeek is one of those places that comes up a lot when you're talking about counterterrorism," said Terrence Peterson, a postdoctoral fellow at CISAC.

"You do have terrorism networks that use these areas, in the same way that organized crime does, to thrive.  It seems to be the place where all the networks are locating, in part because Belgian security hasn't been very effective in fighting terrorism."

Source of foreign fighters

Belgium is a small nation, with a population of around 11 million people, but it has the highest per capita percentage of any Western country of foreign fighters who have joined the battle in Iraq and Syria, according to a recent report, which estimated the total number at 440 people.

"People were even saying it was not a matter of if but when Belgium was attacked," said Joe Felter, a CISAC senior research scholar and former colonel in the U.S. Army Special Forces.

"You've got a high concentration of radicalized individuals in that neighborhood of Brussels, so logistically it was easier for them to recruit, plan and coordinate the execution of these attacks," he said. "Local residents loading up explosive-packed suitcases in a cab and driving across town to the airport exposes them to much less risk of compromise than would a plot requiring cross-border preparation and movement by foreign citizens."

Felter said he was concerned that the Brussels bombings, for which the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility, would inspire copycat attacks in other countries.

"The real risk now is these home-grown, self-directed terrorist attacks," he said.

"A successful attack like this, with all its media attention and publicity, is only going to inspire and motivate more attempts going forward."

Beyond Belgium

Other European countries such as Denmark, which also has been struggling to deal with a high percentage of foreign fighters, are trying to proactively discourage citizens from travelling to Syria to fight, said Anja Dalgaard-Nielsen, former executive director of the Danish Security and Intelligence Service and a CISAC affiliate.

"Politicians are likely to talk about tougher legislation, but there are also measured voices, calling for a strong, long-term, preventive effort against radicalization to prevent problems from growing out of hand," Dalgaard-Nielsen said.

"Police need to prioritize community outreach and long-term trust building to try to ensure the collaboration of minority groups and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities in the effort against terrorism."

Stanford political science Professor David Laitin, co-author of the recently published book Why Muslim Integration Fails in Christian-Heritage Societies, said his research found that Muslims faced higher discrimination in the economy, in society and in the political process compared with Christians from similar immigrant backgrounds.

"But there is no evidence that higher degrees of discrimination lead Muslims into the unspeakable acts that members of an inhuman cult are performing in the name of Islam," said Laitin, who is the James T. Watkins IV and Elise V. Watkins Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences.

"From what we have tragically seen, the attractiveness of the present murderous cult does not derive from everyday discrimination," he said. "Research has shown that it is not the poor and downtrodden who are radicalized in this way, but rather reasonably educated, second-generation immigrants from largely secular backgrounds."

Europe divided

Laitin said he expected to see many European countries tighten their border controls in response to the Brussels attacks, as well as greater support in the United Kingdom for the movement to leave the European Union in the upcoming referendum.

"The biggest short-term effect, in my judgment, will be the erosion of one of the great achievements of European integration, namely Schengen, which promised open borders throughout the continent," Laitin said.

"I foresee greater security walls that will come to divide European countries."

Fighting a hostile ideology

Felter said that while it is undoubtedly important to improve intelligence sharing and invest in greater security measures as part of concerted efforts to target the Islamic State group and interdict future terrorist plots, the key to undermining support for and defeating ISIS is combating its perverted version of Islam.

And, he said, that effort would have to come largely from within the Islamic community itself.

"The symptoms may be suicide bombers in airports, but the root cause is this hostile ideology that's being pushed on these at-risk individuals through aggressive radicalization and recruitment efforts carried out largely via the Internet that then inspires them to carry out these self-directed, ISIS-inspired attacks," Felter said.

"There's got to be a longer-term effort to address the root causes of this, to discredit and delegitimize the appeal of this ideology that they're promulgating online and through social media that's inspiring these young men and women to go off and commit these horrible acts in the misguided belief that it is their religious obligation to do so."

Explore further Most tweets following fall Paris attacks defended Islam, Muslims
A scientist performs an autopsy of the remains of a puppy, which died 12,460 years ago and was discovered in Russia's northern Yakutia, at the North-Eastern Federal University in Yakutsk

The hunters searching for mammoth tusks were drawn to the steep riverbank by a deposit of ancient bones. To their astonishment, they discovered an Ice Age puppy's snout peeking out from the permafrost.

Five years later, a pair of puppies perfectly preserved in Russia's far northeast region of Yakutia and dating back 12,460 years has mobilised scientists across the world.

"To find a carnivorous mammal intact with skin, fur and internal organsthis has never happened before in history," said Sergei Fyodorov, head of exhibitions at the Mammoth Museum of the North-Eastern Federal University in the regional capital of Yakutsk.

And the discovery could contribute to the lively scientific debate over the origin of domesticated dogs.

When the hunters stumbled on the first frozen pup in 2011, they alerted Fyodorov who immediately flew out to the remote Arctic tundra, about 4,700 kilometres (2,900 miles) from Moscow and only 130 kilometres from the Laptev Sea, which borders the Arctic Ocean.

Last year he returned for a more thorough look and found the second puppy close to the same spot, farther down the slope. Both had died when they were about three months old.

They most likely come from the same litter, said Fyodorov.

The discovery of 12,460-year-old puppies in Russia could contribute to the lively scientific debate over the origin of domesticated dogs

Last week he oversaw the removal of the second puppy's remarkably well-preserved brain"the first in the world", he said.

"Puppies are very rare, because they have thin bones and delicate skulls," he said.

The duo have been named the Tumat Dog, after the nearest village to the site.

Fyodorov said a preliminary look at the mammoth remains also found at the dig suggested some had been butchered and burned, hinting at the presence of humans. It remains to be seen, however, whether the puppies were domesticated or wild.

The answer can only be determined by reconstructing their genomes, which would take at least a year.

Grass-eating dogs?

"Thus far, the lineages of wolves that likely gave rise to dogs have not yet been discovered and it's possible that these puppies could be on that lineage, which would be very exciting," said evolutionary biologist Greger Larson of University of Oxford, one of the scientists behind a collaborative project aimed at finding out when and where dogs became the first domesticated animals.

What makes the dog particularly intriguing is that it managed to become "man's best friend" even before humans became settled farmers.

Scientists from the Mammoth Museum of the North-Eastern Federal University extract the brain of a puppy, which died 12,460 years ago and was discovered in Russia's northern Yakutia

It is still unclear whether dogs were domesticated in one place or in several places independently, and whether the process started when humans took in cubs or whether wolves themselves gradually drifted to human sites in search of food.

Whatever their precise lineage, the Tumat pups will keep Fyodorov and other scientists busy for some time.

The second puppy's preserved brain will be compared with that of modern dogs and wolves. Parasites found on its body will be analysed, as will the contents of its stomach, which Fyodorov is particularly excited about.

"When we opened it, we were very surprised. The second puppy's stomach is mostly full of twigs and grass," he said, wondering if perhaps the animals were not exclusively carnivorous or whether they started eating grass after they were trapped by a mudslide and began to starve.

"This material is really exceptional and unique," said Mietje Germonpre, a palaeontologist from the Royal Belgian Institute who partnered up with Fyodorov on the project and came to Yakutsk to oversee the autopsy of the second puppy earlier this month.

"The fact that soft tissue is preserved will give much more information compared to information that can be obtained from 'normal' fossils," she said, meaning bones and teeth.

Permafrost secrets

Fyodorov lamented the long time it takes to get ancient biological material to suitable labs due to financial constraints, the rugged terrain and red tape which sometimes means that samples reach laboratories only six months later.

"Everyone understands that the tissue of mammoth fauna loses its structure with every passing second, even in the freezer," he said.

Yakutia's melting permafrost is likely to yield up even more treasures in the coming years, he added, saying the number of reported prehistoric finds has grown "severalfold" in the last decade.

Warm and wet weather and flash floods have been a big contributor to the thaw, he said.

"Right now it's 0 degrees (Celsius) here. That should not be the case in March."

As better transport and technology becomes affordable, he said, locals are embarking on expeditions to more and more remote corners of Siberia to look for the precious and lucrative mammoth tusks, which can sell for tens of thousands of dollars and are increasingly prized by Chinese carvers given trade bans on elephant ivory.

In Russia, indigenous tribes are allowed to hunt for ancient remains on their ancestral lands.

"Our land is locked in by permafrost, but little by little it is revealing its secrets," Fyodorov said.

Explore further Domestication of dogs may explain mammoth kill sites and success of early modern humans

 2016 AFP
Chemists have identified the complex chemical structure of the protein that stacks together to form fibrils in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. Armed with this knowledge, researchers can identify specific targets for diagnosis and treatment.

University of Illinois chemists, collaborating with peers at the University of Pennsylvania, Vanderbilt University and Queen Mary University of London, detailed their mapped structure of the protein in the journal Nature Structural and Molecular Biology.

In Parkinson's, the protein alpha-synuclein forms long fibrils that disrupt brain activity. This is similar to the beta-amyloid fibrils that form in Alzheimer's disease patients. However, while the beta-amyloid structure is known, the alpha-synuclein structure has eluded researchers as a result of its complexity, its insolubility and the difficulty of characterizing one protein within a fibril.

"This is the first structure of the full-length fibril protein, which is now well established to be important for the pathology of Parkinson's disease," said study leader Chad Rienstra, a University of Illinois chemistry professor. "Knowing that structure will open up many new areas of investigation for diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease."

The Illinois group used a special type of molecular imaging called magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance to measure the placement of atoms in six different samples of alpha-synuclein. In each set of samples, they looked at different sets of atoms, then used advanced computational power to put them all together like pieces of a giant jigsaw puzzle.

Led by University of Illinois professor Chad Rienstra, chemists have identified the full chemical structure of the protein that forms fibrils in the brains of patients with Parkinsons disease.

"We had to find patterns in the data and systematically test all the possibilities for how the protein would fit together," Rienstra said. "It's like when you solve a really complex puzzle, you know you have it right at the end because all the pieces fit together. That's what we got with this structure."

The group experimentally verified the structure with collaborators by producing the protein in the lab and checking it with various imaging methods to see if it matched the fibrils found in Parkinson's patients. They also verified it biologically by testing it in cell cultures and seeing that it indeed behaved like the protein found in patients.

"These structures are crucial for understanding the mechanisms for how Parkinson's disease works," said Marcus Tuttle, first author of the paper, who worked on the project as a graduate researcher in Rienstra's group and is now a postdoctoral fellow at Yale University. "Amyloid diseases are incredibly complex systems. What structural features drive pathology? That's a super interesting question, but until now there's been no structure. Now there's a whole avenue where we can start to explore the basic mechanism of how the protein works."

Rienstra's group is working with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to identify possible diagnostic agents that could target certain spots on the alpha-synuclein protein and would "light up" in a brain scan, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis.

"We think that the structure that we resolved of alpha-synuclein fibrils will be really significant in the immediate future and has use for diagnosing Parkinson's in patients before they're symptomatic," Rienstra said. "Once people start having symptoms, whether of Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, in many ways it's a little too late to be effective with therapy. But if you catch it early, I think there's a lot of promise for therapies that are being developed. Those are all relying upon the structures that we're solving."

Explore further Researchers identify when Parkinson's proteins become toxic to brain cells
Are we headed toward a future with fewer cars? Not necessarily, says UVM geographer Meghan Cope. Her new study suggests that infrastructure and land use still govern young people's decisions to drive. Credit: Amanda Waite

It's a well-worn media trope. Twenty-first century millennials are leading the way to a green transportation future, moving to cities, riding public transit, biking and walking and often delaying car purchases indefinitely, to Detroit's growing dismay.

The reality is more complex, says a new study by University of Vermont researchers published this month in the Annals of the Association of American Geographers.

Since the public discussion is mostly about the driving habits of post-college-aged 20-somethings who have moved to cities, the researchers decided to trace backward to see if there is evidence of high school-aged teens changing their behavior.

Their answer: only in part, suggesting the larger narrative may be overstated.

Infrastructure and land-use patterns in the community play a major role in teens' decisions about whether to begin driving when they're of age, said Meghan Cope, professor of geography at the University of Vermont and co-author of the study.

"If we're concerned with trying to make non-car transportation viable for teensa habit they could carry over into later yearsthen land-use patterns, density and the transportation network of walkable areas, bike paths and public transportation really matter," Cope said. Meeting teen mobility needs would also benefit other groups who can't depend on driving to meet their needs, she said.

The study compared teen behavior in two Vermont school districts. One was semi-urban with a variety of public transportation options and teen destinations like a mall and the high school located nearby. The other was more rural and suburban with little public transportation, and destinationsfrom the high school to friends' houses to shopsaccessible only by car or school bus. Both districts are suburbs of Burlington.

In the more rural suburban district, teens obtained their driver's license on average within a month of their 16th birthday. In the more urban community, teens delayed several months before getting their license.

The study also looked at the way the internet and cell phones influenced teen mobility. The authors found that technology influences travel behaviors by helping teens arrange rides and meeting up, but did not replace meeting in person.

Both communities the researchers studied were affluent, Cope said. Many families surveyed had the resources to purchase a car for their teen or make an existing vehicle available to them.

Even among educated, wealthy families with influence and extensive social networks, teens from the more rural suburbs encountered obstacles to their mobility, Cope said.

"No matter what their circumstances, they bumped up against a disconnected transportation infrastructure before they had a car," Cope said.

Transportation policy isn't only of academic interest, Cope said.

"There's a social justice dimension," she said. "Land-use decisions can marginalize whole groups of people. In car-oriented suburbs, teens whose families have fewer resources or challenging work schedules, elderly people, the disabled, the poor, and those who choose not to drive are left out."

To bring about a future that truly isn't reliant on the automobile, Cope recommended the following:

Create interconnected, walkable communities. "Connectivity is the key word," she said.

Put zoning practices in place that encourage mixed-use development and higher residential densities.

Integrate both public transit and biking/pedestrian infrastructure into neighborhoods and commercial developments.

The study used a mix of research methods to obtain its results. Both parents and teens filled out an extensive questionnaire. The researchers also conducted a focus group with teens from both schools and held a participatory mapping session with them featuring an aerial photo of their towns; teens were asked to place stickers on places that were important them, while talking with the researchers about how they traveled there. The researchers also employed a research technique they invented, asking teens to verbally share selected text messages to give a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between texting and mobility, and to illuminate other aspects of their transportation choices.
For Immediate Release

Physicians for Human Rights today urged President Obama to ensure all detainees are safely repatriated, resettled in third countries, or prosecuted in federal courts, in response to the administrations newly announced plan to close Guantanamo Bay Detention Facility.

Closing Guantanamo is critically important, but President Obama must take decisive action to also end indefinite detention and other human rights violations of detainees, said Sarah Dougherty, senior fellow in Physician for Human Rights anti-torture program. What we want is respect for due process and fair trial standards  and that doesnt happen by simply relocating detainees to U.S. soil. There is a danger that closing Guantanamo will simply relocate the lawlessness of indefinite detention to the United States.

The prison at Guantanamo  which has been open for 14 years  is a symbol of the U.S. governments willingness to undermine legal protections for people suspected of crimes related to terrorism. PHR pointed out that President Obama has a final opportunity to make good on his commitment to close this symbol of U.S. torture and exceptionalism.

Indefinite detention is a form of ill-treatment that inflicts severe mental and physical harm on detainees, as Physicians for Human Rights has documented, Dougherty said. The United States must prosecute detainees in federal courts or ensure their prompt release  not continue holding them indefinitely, in violation of U.S. and international law.

PHR welcomed the administrations plan to accelerate the review and transfer of Guantanamo detainees and broaden use of federal courts to prosecute those charged with crimes. However, PHR reiterated that prolonged, arbitrary detention violated U.S. obligations under international law and stated that transferring detainees to the United States for further detention would only continue their ill-treatment.

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) is a New York-based advocacy organization that uses science and medicine to prevent mass atrocities and severe human rights violations. Learn more here.
SMB Retailers- Embrace Mobility to Attract More Customers, Streamline Operations

By Roula Vrsic, Vice President, Global Marketing, SOTI

Mobility is changing the retail landscape and retailers who dont embrace it may be left behind.

Today, mobile technologies influence every step of the shopping experience and touch every part of the value chain, from buying products and managing inventory to operating stores and marketing and promotion. And customers love it.

A survey released by SOTI earlier this year showed that 66 percent of consumers are more likely to shop at retailers offering an in-store mobile technology shopping experience.

For small to medium-sized (SMB) retailers, adopting a mobile strategy is crucial for keeping pace with customers changing demands. This article will show how mobility solutions can improve a retail operation and examines ways in which retailers have managed them successfully.

Improving the Consumer Experience

Mobility solutions enable retailers to interact with customers in more places and more often as part of an omni-channel strategy, providing consumers with a unified shopping experience that encompasses online, telephone, or shopping in a bricks-and-mortar store. Savvy shoppers frequently use their smartphones to compare in-store prices with Internet prices as they shop.

Tablets are flexible enough so that retailers can use them as kiosks, for smart displays, and at the point-of-sale (POS) throughout the store. Self-serve kiosks provide immediate stock and product information to consumers without them ever having to ask a sales associate for help.

Those retailers who expand the use of mobile devices across their operations to include more purpose-built and consumer-grade mobile devices are finding that consumers actually prefer using them rather than speaking with a store employee or sales associate. When shoppers do speak to a sales associate, they say those equipped with special-purpose mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are better informed and helpful.

Retailers know that long lines are detrimental to consumers retail experience, and can impact brand loyalty. They also know consumers prefer mobile POS instead of traditional cashier checkout to speed their transactions. Once the shopper is ready to checkout, mobile sales staff with POS-enabled devices can scan their purchase, swipe their credit cards and print their receipts. This alone can improve the customer sales experience and increase revenue per customer.

Product Promotion

Beyond improving in-store experiences for shoppers, retailers also can use mobility to capitalize on big data captured from consumers mobile devices. Armed with this type of data, retailers can build targeted marketing campaigns and promotions. Using analytics, retailers can deliver targeted daily or weekly e-flyers to users smartphones before they even enter the store.

Location-aware beacon technology can also enable retailers to deliver these customized promotions and location-based coupons to consumers. When shoppers are walking around the mall, the beacons can advertise walk-in specials based on their purchase history captured on prior visits and entice them into the store.

Digitally-enabled signage can direct shoppers to the products they are most likely to purchase and beacons can trigger promotions based on the shoppers proximity to the product. In the aisles, single-purpose devices in kiosk mode can enable retailers to check inventory and even order stock before supplies run out.

Managing Mobile Devices throughout the Value Chain

From the retailers perspective, linking together devices and connected peripherals for digital signage, mobile POS, in-store kiosks, interactive displays, tablets, scanners and wireless printers can be daunting. New devices need to get into the hands of employees quickly and cost effectively, and once these devices are in the stores, they need to be updated on a regular basis. Shoppers want convenience, but they also expect that convenience to come with security. In the SOTI survey, in fact, many said they would cease shopping at a retailer that suffered a security breach of their payment or personal customer information.

Enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions can help retailers manage their various mobile devices as well as applications and content across the retail value chain. It can also help configure mobile devices for rapid staging and provisioning and provide OS updates and remote troubleshooting management over the air. And as many retail organizations have far-flung empires regionally, nationally or even internationally, a unified EMM solution can manage mobile devices no matter where their workers and network endpoints are located.

Effective EMM solutions ensure security of mobile devices by enforcing user authentication, by relying on data encryption, and even by offering geo-fencing features that restrict or lock down devices that leave the premises.

Mobile devices used for POS or that capture consumer information must adhere to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS), which protects branded credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, as well as the personally identifiable information (PII) standard, which protects customer data. A secure EMM solution will help retailers meet these requirements, which are mandated by the PCI Mobile Payment Acceptance Security Guidelines for POS devices.

The Reject Shop Improves Customer Experiences, Saves Costs

Australias The Reject Shop provides a compelling example of how retailers can leverage mobility to improve the customer experience, ensure security and save money. The chain of more than 330 discount variety stores has three major distribution hubs and 5,000 employees and offers a wide range of consumer goods to savvy shoppers looking for a bargain.

To improve the customer experience, The Reject Shop wanted to extend inventory control into the store aisles. To do so, it introduced handheld personal computers optimized for retail  Zebra MC40 devices  into its stores. The Android-based device offers all of the features of a smartphone, but also provides the retailers employees with barcode scanning, POS support, and Push-To-Talk (PTT) features for in-store inventory control.

The Reject Shops IT department wanted to ensure backward compatibility for these devices with the Windows CE based barcode scanners it was already using. They required management of the new Android devices through a single management interface and they wanted to manage device content, protect device hardware, software and data, and facilitate over-the-air updates and remote support. It was also important for The Reject Shop to manage their devices centrally using an EMM solution, particularly since the devices are used in a wide geography.

The Reject Shop chose SOTI MobiControl, which they were already using to manage their Windows CE devices, for the new Android devices. The EMM solution enabled the retailer to roll out the new Android devices in just two weeks and offered them the security they were looking for.

The Reject Shop estimates that central management of the OS upgrade to all of its devices across its 330+ stores saved the company in travel and manpower costs.

And by keeping a good handle on inventory within-store mobile solutions, The Reject Shop can continue to offer its customers the best deals in Australia.

While coordinating all this technology may be challenging for the small to medium sized business, a planned, coordinated, gradual rollout will keep the business competitive while keeping customers satisfied.



Other Point of Sale News Articles that may interest you:
CORINTH  The town has received $330,000 to renovate and upgrade 12 homes as part of a state grant that also gave $825,000 to Syracuse.

The Corinth Home Improvement Program will use the $330,000 in funds to improve 12 single-family homes, placing the highest priority on ensuring their residents are living in safe homes.

Most of the homes in town were built more than 70 years ago, and grant funds are needed to address typical repairs that may be too costly for many homeowners to afford.

Repairs include upgrading heating systems and repairing or replacing roofs, electrical, plumbing, water supply and septic systems.

The program is designed to meet the critical needs of low- and middle-income homeowners, provide an opportunity to prolong the useful life of their homes and bring them into compliance with local and state building codes.

Income-eligible homeowners will be selected from a waiting list and contractors will be selected through a competitive bidding process.

For information, visit www.townofcorinthny.org.

Since 2011, Corinth has been awarded three other HCR grants  two for town sewer improvements and another for neighborhood revitalization.

In Syracuse, the grants are expected to assist in the renovation of 30 homes both single-family and two-family.
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READ MORE: Ghana and USAID organize Training for Field Staff

Mr. Charles Nyaaba, the Programme Officer of the PFAG, made the call at a sensitisation workshop, jointly organised by the Association and SEND- Ghana in Bolgatanga to discuss the Agricultural Sector Budget.He said Small holder farmers would not benefit much from the Budget unless special attention was given to them. The Programme Officer explained that 90 per cent of the farming population was small holders, with 55 per cent of them being women.

He said majority of Small-holder farmers were engaged in the production of vegetables, legumes, and cereals for consumption, but he claimed that such sectors were not catered for in the 2016 Annual Budget for the Agricultural sector.

He alleged that Targeted Programmes for Women; Investment in Extension Services; Climate Resilient Agriculture; Investment in Warehousing; and Investment in Irrigation, particularly dugouts, which were very critical to the empowerment of the small-holder farmers, were all missing in the Budget for the sector.Mr Nyaaba, however, commended the Government for the proposed good investment in fertiliser and seed subsidy.But he kicked against the GHC35 Million allocation for the Green House Technology Capacity Building and Training Centres, and asked that the fund be rather channelled towards supporting small-holder farmers.This will help boost food production in the country as well as help improve upon the standard of living of the Small holder farmers who form the greatest number of farmers in the country, he stated.The Programme Officer of SEND- Ghana, Nana Aisha Mohammed, explained that the workshop, which was sponsored by Trust Africa, was aimed at presenting the findings of analysis of the 2016 Agriculture Sector Budget; Prospects, Challenges and Opportunities for Small- holder farmers.

It was attended by stakeholders, including representatives of Civil Society Organisations, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Irrigation Development Authority, and the Media from the Northern, Upper East and Upper West Regions.

She urged the Government to ensure that the fertiliser and seed subsidy programme benefitted mainly small holder-farmers but not commercial farmers who had the ability to purchase inputs.

READ MORE: Govt not showing enough commitment to rice farmers- GRIBThe Kassena-Nankana Municipal Chief Executive, Dr Stanislaus Alu Kandingdi, who read a speech on behalf of the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Albert Abongo, gave the assurance that the Government would ensure that the peasant farmers benefited from the fertiliser and seed subsidy programme towards increasing food production. The Tono and Vea Irrigation dams are also being restructured, he said. After completion, the Region will take its first position as the leading supplier of vegetables in this country.This will help create more jobs for the youth and reduce migration to cities in search of jobs and also reduce the risk of travelling to Burkina Faso to import tomatoes leading to loss of lives.
READ MORE: AngloGold Ashanti cedes 60 percent stake in Obuasi Mine to government

The released land, according to AGA will provide an "opportunity for the Government/ Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to use the land as it sees fit, including to encourage a range of socio-economic development activities in the Obuasi region."

The land in question covers about 273 square kilometers and excludes the Obuasi Mine, which lies on land retained by AGA.

This means that the land which was not previously used can now be brought into productive use. Out of this land we will cede some to small-scale miners -- and in fact we have begun demarcating the land to the miners. So if the complaint in the past was that there was no land to mine, then now we have the land and are collaborating with district assemblies and all other stakeholders to work, Dr. Aubynn said.

He also asked small scale miners to take advantage of the released land, adding that the reason for encroaching AGA's land is no long tenable.

READ MORE: Some Large Mining companies interested in Anglogold concessions

We are asking that our brothers and sisters come and take advantage of what we have now, so they can live in harmony with the company. So it is an appeal to our friends and brothers who are said to be down there to take advantage of the ground that has been given out, so they can also have something to do.

We are actually going to support them register and form co-operatives in a way that AngloGold Ashanti can also work in peace and complement the work of these small-scale miners, he stated.
The Central Bank of Nigeria recently introduced a policy on forex and fund transfer that has caused an inability for these foreign airlines operating in the country to transfer their earnings to their respective home countries.

READ ALSO : In Nigeria: Forex reserves fall to a new low

General Secretary of the NUATE, Comrade Olayinka Abioye, in a letter calling on the Nigerian Minister of State for Aviation, pleaded the Federal Govt to intervene and prevent this layoff as it would destabilize the affected workers

Part of the statement reads, The reason being adduced for this danger is that their earnings in the past year is under lock with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN , as they are unable to transfer these earnings to their respective home countries to meet operational costs in accordance with international rules.

Following concerns raised recently by leaders of these workers and other stakeholders and in appreciation of the good intent of the governments fiscal policy, we humbly make this clarion call for your (Minister) intervention to grant foreign airlines concession to repatriate their proceeds to their home countries, it continued.

Olayinka Abioye also reiterated that if the foreign airlines are allowed to go ahead with their plans, it would not serve a national purpose and would go a long way to derail the interests of the workers and Nigeria as a whole.
"The decision wasn't a devaluation, it was correcting the situation and we had planned for it in advance. Its advantages will outweigh its disadvantages," he added.

Amer said Egypt would pay back a $1 billion debt owed to Qatar in July and also $800 million to Paris Club countries.

He said dollar-denominated "Belady" certificates offered by the three largest state-owned banks in recent weeks to Egyptians abroad in a bid to persuade them to invest their dollar savings in their home country had seen a very low turnout.

Amer has moved aggressively in recent weeks to bring dollars into a banking system starved of foreign currency and slow the rapid fall of the Egyptian pound on the black market.

He surprised markets this month by removing dollar deposit and withdrawal caps, devaluing the currency by 13 percent in a single day, declaring a more flexible exchange rate and injecting hundreds of millions of dollars despite critically low reserves.

Egypt, which relies heavily on imports, has been facing a dollar shortage since a popular uprising in 2011 drove away tourists and foreign investors, both major sources of hard currency.

The central bank had been keeping the pound artificially strong through regular auctions three times a week. Its reserves more than halved to $16.5 billion in February from around $36 billion in 2011.
The court presided over by Mr Justice Patrick Baayeh issued a warrant for the Minister's arrest and to cause him to appear in court on April 15, after failing to come before it for five times, Graphic.com.gh has said.

The court order is based on a suit filed against the Minister by two private citizens, Zikpuitor Fenu Benjamin Atsu and Marshall Koblah Fenu.

According to the plaintiffs, the Minister and the Director of the Water Resources Ministry, Alhaji Ziblim Yakubu, as well as, Director of Hydrological Services, Mr Owusu Ansah, who were acting as supervisors of the Ada Sea Defence Project caused destruction of their land and property.

The plaintiffs also argue that the contractor, Dredging International Company from Netherlands, has also destroyed the environment.

The Ada Sea Defence Project, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year, seeks to provide a system for the coastline to have a buffer against attacks by the ocean waves.

The coastline was said to be disappearing at a rate of between 6-8 metres a year, creating a serious threat to the lives of the inhabitants.
The raging conflict between the local farmers and Fulani herdsmen in the Ivorian community has resulted in hundreds of them running to Ghana after apparently being chased out of the town by the locals in Bouna.

The Bole District Police Commander, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Eric Awiadem, told Graphic Online that on Friday, March 25, 2016, the Bole District Security Committee (DISEC) received information that there was a conflict between the Fulani herdsmen and the Brifo people.

He said the DISEC suspected there could be a spillover of the conflict to Ghana and therefore called the military to assist at the border in case of any possible disturbance.

The military, he said, assisted the police to bring the Fulanis from Bouna to Bole, preventing the Fulanis from a possible attack by the other Brifos living in Ghana around the border.
Corporal Eric K. Amoako from the Zongo Divisional Police, with service number 38865 is part of a team that sells fake currencies to dealers and later turn around to arrest them. They then take the fake currency from their victims and extort money from them.

A police source told Graphic Online that the three, who have been in this business for some time now, were subsequently arrested on Saturday around 2pm at the Nana Akwasi Agyeman Area at CPC in Kumasi.

This was after they had tried to play their trick on a youngman, Isaac Adusei, who raised an alarm leading to their arrest.
This comes after concerns from Lawyer of Capt. Koda and other NPP supporters that the continuous detention of Capt. Koda who had been granted bail by the High Court, was illegal.

Capt Koda was arrested on Friday after being implicated in the case involving the three former South African ex-police officerswho were arrested last week for allegedly training the private security of the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo.

The BNI arrested the three ex-police officers, Major Ahmed Shaik (retd), 54; Warrant Officer Denver Dwahye, 33, and Captain Mlungiseli Jokani, 45, last Sunday, March 20 in the Agona East of the Central region for "training fifteen young men in various military drills, including unarmed combat, weapon handling, VIP protection techniques and rapid response maneuvers.

The BNI had argued that their activities might pose a security threat to the country. The three were subsequently charged with conspiracy to commit crime and unlawful training.

Meanwhile, the New Patriotic Party is demanding the immediate release of three South Africans.

Addressing a press conference, the party said the three are being held in unlawful custody by the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI).

Hundreds of angry supporters of the New Patriotic Party had massed up at the party headquarters on Monday to protest the continued detention of the three South Africans and Capt. Koda.
This follows the re-arrest of his client, Capt Koda who has been implicated in the case involving the three former South African ex-police officerswho were arrested last week for allegedly training the private security of the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo.

The BNI arrested the three ex-police officers last Sunday, March 20 in the Agona East of the Central region for "training fifteen young men in various military drills, including unarmed combat, weapon handling, VIP protection techniques and rapid response maneuvers.

The BNI had argued that their activities might pose a security threat to the country. The three were subsequently charged with conspiracy to commit crime and unlawful training.

Nana Asante Bediatuo told Accra-based Citi FM that he will be forced to resort to the law court to force the BNI to produce his client.

Captain Koda is alleged to have invited the three South Africans who have since been granted bail but are currently in the custody of the BNI.

He was reportedly charged with conspiracy to commit crime and unlawful training but granted bail on Wednesday after the BNI took his statement.
The excited new Bible scholar took to Instagram to share the news with fans and followers writing, 2nd best foundation school graduating student in Christ Embassy Lekki, the mum of two said, adding, so excited #imspreading#nowimready.

In another photo, she said, This means so much to me. [Im] totally equipped for every good work.

The wife of retired Super Eagles player, Joseph Yobo recently admitted she's addicted to social media but not open to sharing all of her life to everyone.

According to her, "I never share my sex life. I think Im very open with social media and its kinda like a very big part of my life. I enjoy it, cant even deny it, Ive realized that Im actually obsessed with social media. I love social media, Id share everything but my sex life."

Yobo also revealed her mothers trollingon social media is becoming quite creepy, adding that she is always commenting on all her post especially that of her children.
She said, "I can never stop acting Yoruba movies because that industry made me who I am today."

"When I began featuring in Yoruba films, I wasnt speaking the language flawlessly, so I had to learn on the job."

"My industry is very accommodating and that is why I would always be grateful to them for accepting me and giving me a platform to excel."

She mentioned that it was never her plan to be a regular feature in Yoruba movies. Being from Edo State, she had little exposure in Yoruba language.

Aigbe discouraged the wrong perception associated with Yoruba movie actors. She added that it is a poor misconception to consider them as illiterates.

She was quoted from the interview as saying,"I didnt choose to be in the Yoruba movie sector. I started out in Nollywood and I featured in several soap operas and movies."

"My career took a different direction when a Yoruba film producer cast me in his movie titled Ara."

"The movie became a hit and I soon began getting scripts from other Yoruba filmmakers and I couldnt turn them down because I had just launched my career."

"In no time, I became a household name in the Yoruba film genre."

As a testimony of her excellence, Aigbe, who is a graduate from the prestigious University of Lagos, won an award as the Best Actress in Yoruba at the City People Awards.

She is married to an hotelier named Lanre Gentry, and already has three children. The actress is also an ambassador to a Sickle Cell initiative called Dubai Afrika Sickle Cell Project.
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The suspect had only been spared by the timely intervention of members of the vigilante group in the market.

A witness who had been at the scene at the time of the incident, Shehu Yakubu, revealed that the incident had taken place at about 2:14p.m., adding that the suspect had reportedly confessed before returning the stolen manhood.

Yakubu adds that the suspect, who is reportedly from Suleja, had come down from an unmarked vehicle before pretending to buy fairly used clothes, in the process of which he brushed a passer-by, revealed to be the victim.

The man pretended as if he had fallen down and in the process brushed the victim with his shoulder. The young man raised an alarm about the disappearance of his manhood few minutes later.

Yakubu went on to reveal that people had immediately responded, chasing down the suspect and stopping him from leaving the market.

The reports reveal that the suspect had initially denied stealing the manhood causing the already gathered mob attack him until the members of the vigilante group had intervened.
The victim, Antinlola Adeyemi, was reportedly discovered in the well today, Monday, March 28, 2016, after being announced missing on Friday, the week before.

The Director of Lagos State Fire Service, Mr Fadipe Rasaq, reportedly confirmed the discovery to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mr Rasaq also revealed that the family had been searching for her for four days now, before her discovery.

Speaking in a statement on the issues, he said:

The family had been looking for her. She was discovered in the well and we were informed at about 9.30 a.m.; when we got there, she was already swollen.

It was only her back we were seeing. It was difficult to bring her out. At the time we brought her out, the corpse was handed over to Isheri Police Division police officers.

The well is situated in front of the houses along the power lines where illegal buildings and other structures were demolished in Ikotun area not too long ago.

The corpse has reportedly been deposited in the mortuary of a near by hospital.
It said the governors recent utterances and actions suggest acts of sabotage targeted at rendering national institutions ineffective to perform their statutory roles for effective government in a federal set-up.

The State Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Taiwo Olatunbosun, said this in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti.

The statement noted that Fayoses unguided serial statements had exposed him as a man fighting a lone battle against the Federal Government over alleged selfish motives.

He cited the governor's alleged death wish for President Muhammadu Buhari at a rally held at Fajuyi Square, Ado-Ekiti, over the weekend to welcome the detained member of the House of Assembly, Akanni Afolabi, to the state capital as a case study.

Olatunbosun regretted that besides the governor inciting Ekiti people against the operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS), he had also for umpteenth time, threatened to bring Buharis government down if any attempt was made to probe sundry alleged crimes levelled against him.

"We have heard of reports of Governor Fayose inciting the people to stone the operatives of the DSS anywhere they are seen.

"This is besides saying many unprintable things about the President, such as saying that he would soon die, and declaring the DG of DSS, Lawal Musa Daura, a personal non-grata in Ekiti State.

"It is regrettable that Fayose cannot separate his personal views as a man constantly at war with the Nigerian law from the views of lawful Ekiti people, who are ready to submit themselves to the Nigerian law where the rule of law and good governance flourish, the party said.

Accusing the governor of running a government built on his personal image, the APC said this misconception had "robbed Ekiti people the quality leadership with the right mindset to see governance beyond the prism of self-glorification.

"This failure to see governance beyond personal appeal of the governor is costing our state good governance for the development of our people and her deserved place of honour in this country.

"That is why the governor is wasting state resources on helicopter charter to ferry an accused person, Akanni Afolabi, from Abuja to Ekiti after which he took six pages of several newspapers on frivolous adverts to publish court records on the accuseds bail application and topped it with the donation of a new car to same Akanni, who is still under investigation over several criminal cases.

"Fayose has appointed himself national opposition leader just because he wants to help himself in his many criminal cases against the nations law, it said.
Punch reports that the Chief Hunter of Borno, Mallam Maigana Maidurma said We are renewing out call on the military authorities to allow us join the search for Boko Haram elements in their Sambisa forest hideout.

We are ready to pursue the terrorists because we know the terrain in and out.

Maidurma said his men are not afraid of the landmines which the sect members reportedly buried in the forest.

He also boasted that his men have supernatural powers that will help in the war against the insurgents.

He said We know that it is true that the Boko Haram terrorists are in the habit of burying landmines to prevent encroachment into their hideout.

But we believe that we can work in collaboration with Local Vigilantes, called Civilian JTF, to overrun them.
Adesina made the comment while appearing on Channels TVs Sunday Politics on March 27, 2016.

If some people are crying that they are in darkness, they should go and hold those who vandalize the installations, thats it, the presidential aide said.

Adesina had earlier urged Nigerians to stop complaining about the situation in the country.

I think Nigerians have always complained, and we should learn to stop complaining and believe more, he said during an interview with Radio Continental.

What government needs at a time like this, is cooperation and support. The president said this at an interview last week. He said things deteriorated over 16 years that PDP was in power, this is the ninth month of this government, and you want everything to have changed. It is not real.

There must be realistic expectation, and realistic expectation will demand that people are patient, supportive, and encourage the government. This is a government that is working for the people. Rather than complaining, let us cooperate, support and encourage," he added.

Adesina had earlier said that things could get tough in the country for a while but that Buhari would be able to handle it.

-------------------------------------------------
I am aware that there is an account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) where some of these funds are being kept and are evidence for a judge to see, Shehu said on Sunday, March 27, 2016, according to The Nation.

It is not for public display. I think that is the challenge we have at the moment, he added.

Shehu also revealed that Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo would soon begin addressing town hall meetings around the country.

Meanwhile, the presidential aide has denied allegations made by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that he received foreign exchange from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the official rate and resold for a profit at the black market rate.

---------------------------------------------
The civil rights groups said the fact that the the fuel crisis is still lingering, shows that Kachikwu has no clue on how to solve the problem.

The activists, in a statement said Nigerians fought hard to vote in this government of change. But to hear the minister say the kind of things he said is not only insulting to Nigerians but showed his gross incompetence. Nigerians will not tolerate such recklessness. In case the minister needs a reminder, the era of incompetence is long gone with the previous administration. 

Since he has admitted that he cannot restore normalcy to the current fuel crisis, he should immediately resign his position. Indeed, Kachikwu was not coerced to take this job. He accepted the job and its responsibilities knowingly. He also must remember that he does not own NNPC. This also is not a private company that owes nothing to the public except the duty of fair dealing. He is a public servant. The seat he sits upon is owned by Nigerians not by him," they added.
For today, March 28 2016:

THE GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER

Pope, at Easter, recalls victims of blind, brutal terrorismPope Francis tempered his Easter Sunday message of Christian hope with a denunciation of blind terrorism, recalling victims of attacks in Europe, Africa and elsewhere, as well as expressing dismay that people fleeing war or poverty are being denied welcome as European countries squabble over the refugee crisis. READ MORE

Why Buhari is yet to disclose recovered loots, by aideThe presidency has said monies recovered from corrupt government officials and their accomplices cannot be made public now because they are to be used as evidence against the looters during prosecution. READ MORE

NNPC spends N103.4 billion to protect oil pipelines in one yearIt may be virtually impossible for the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to operate its refineries, crude oil and products pipelines nationwide profitably, unless government takes drastic measures to eliminate all acts of pipeline vandalism, according to an investigation by The Guardian. READ MORE____________________________________________

VANGUARD NEWSPAPER

FUEL CRISIS: Kachikwu splits APCLAGOSTHE ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, was literally divided, yesterday, over whether or not Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, should retain his prime position in the APC-led Federal Government on account of the worsening fuel scarcity and his comments that he is not a magician. READ MORE

Aisha Buharis alleged forex deals: Allow us to do our job, CBN tells politiciansABUJA The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has asked politicians to leave it alone to concentrate on its work and avoid dragging it into mudslinging attempts for whatever gain. READ MORE

Presidency to begin town hall meetings across NigeriaABUJA  The Senior Special Assistant, SSA, to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media, Garba Shehu, said yesterday that the presidency will soon begin to hold town hall meetings with Nigerians. READ MORE____________________________________________

THE PUNCH NEWSPAPER

Arms scandal: Jonathan can be tried if there is evidence Buharis panelThe Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay, has faulted a former Minister of National Planning, Dr. Abubakar Suleiman, regarding the culpability of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the current anti-corruption cases. READ MORE

Alleged subsidy fraud: EFCC revisits case against Obanikoros sonThe Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is set to reopen a case of alleged subsidy fraud against an oil company, MOB Integrated Services Limited, which is headed by Mr. Gbolahan Obanikoro, a son of a former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro. READ MORE

Metuh lied, I didnt know him, Abang tells CJJustice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court in Abuja has debunked the claim of the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Olisa Metuh, that they had known each other before the PDPs spokespersons trial started in his court on January 15 this year. READ MORE____________________________________________

BUSINESS DAY NEWSPAPER

Global tourists seek safer destinationsAs the frequency of terror attacks go on the upsurge, global tourists who are looking to avoid terror threats are now looking for safer destinations. The development is expected to open up and sustain the growth of destinations that were not in tourists radar before now. Sadly, it will impact the World Tourism Oragnisations (UNWTO) READ MORE

Investments, home-ownership schemes setback by decaying roadsA good number of real estate investments and homeownership schemes are being abandoned in the suburbs of Nigerias major cities, especially Lagos, on account of decaying roads which make access a nightmare. Nigeria has high level infrastructure deficit and a significant proportion of this is in roads, especially federal highways which link the cities to towns READ MORE
The group made the allegation in a statement signed by its Media and Publicity Officer, Emma Powerful on Monday, March 28, 2016.

Powerful said there is a plot by FG, DSS and three Governors from the Southeastern States to eliminate Mazi Nnamdi Kanu the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB and Director of Radio Biafra on his way to next court date," Powerful said.

The meeting where the plot was perfected had top notches of All Progressives Congress, APC, three Governors from the South East and some Senators from the same zone and some well known enemies of the actualisation of Biafra project.

The plan was perfected in the meeting and designed to be carried out by a killer squad who will open fire on the vehicle as he is being taken to court," he said.
Kachikwu on Wednesday, March 23, 2016, while speaking about the fuel crisis, told newsmen that he was not a magician.

Although the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) came out to clear the air on the ministers comments, Nigerians have not let it go.

Tinubu accused Kachikwu of insulting Nigerians and speaking like an elitist.

It insulted the people by its tonality. He spoke with the imperious nature of a member of the elitist government the people voted out last year and not the progressive one they voted in," he said.

He also said the minister has strayed from the progressive calling required of this administration.

Tinubu also said Perhaps the statement by Kachikwu was made in a moment of unguarded frustration or was an awkward attempt at a joke. Whatever the motive, it was untimely and off-putting. The remark did not sit well with the Nigerian people; they were as right to feel insulted as the minister was wrong to have said such a thing.
The announcement was made by Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed at the 2016 Kannywood Awards.

In a statement, the minister revealed that 17-member committee, will have Peace Anyiam-Osigwe (AMAA President) as coordinator, and Mahmoud Alli-Balogun (Tango with Me) as deputy coordinator, review and Bill before its submission to the Ministry of Justice and the National Assembly.

undefinedhas responded to the bill, which he described as "outrageously elitist and one-sided."

According to him, the bill and some of the contents in its code of content will kill creativity once and for all.

Read Obasi's response below;

I've read the MOPPICON (Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria) bill, as well as its code of conduct. And I'm sick to my stomach.The biggest problem we have in Nigeria is that we're always chasing after shadows, and we never learn how to address the real issues on ground. Now this bill is very elaborate, so I can't really go into every single detail, but just know that every true creative, every struggling artist, every upcoming visionary, and anyone with a voice, whatsoever is going to be stifled by this outrageously elitist and one-sided bill.

This bill and some of the contents in its code of conduct will kill creativity once and for all. This bill as good-intentioned as it may seem, will never grow this industry. I have never been as vocal on any issue on social media as I am right now. I realize that some of my colleagues will be to scared to speak up, but we must realize that its about time we begin to take our destinies into our own hands.

ALSO READ: undefined

When has anyone ever spoken of how bad we have it as young indie filmmakers, or how difficult and near impossible it is to raise funds for any visionary project, how there's virtually no distribution, and how filmmakers are paid peanuts for content (I hate that word), or even better, how come there are no bills for structure within the industry - how there are no real studios.

In a country of almost 200 million people, we don't have one single world class editing suite, no single world class colouring suite, no single Dolby surround sound mixing suite, nothing, and here we are talking associations that are aimed at chaining artists, and forcing them to comply to some very ridiculous rules. Where are the priorities?Don't get me wrong, the bill is not all bad. But when the bad overshadows good intentions then its aim is lost. This is my voice and I'll use it. I've worked too hard and suffered too much to allow my art to be constricted at this stage in my life, because I don't belong to some association. This is not done anywhere. Only in our beloved Nigeria that such things are even considered.

In the code of conduct, this here paragraph states that complaints can be made on any practitioner, and this may emanate from an "offensive or an unacceptable project". So basically, a filmmaker dreams up an idea, something personal, something perhaps unusual in its approach, and because it is offensive or unacceptable - this decided by some panel, he will be liable for punishment. Where is the voice? Where is the democracy? How do we grow?No to irrelevant and outdated rules! No to constriction of visionary and creative filmmaking! Yes to structure! Yes to a distribution model that works in the favour of the filmmakers! Yes to an accountable market! Yes to professionalism!

If we won't welcome growth and begin to support young filmmakers and doing everything possible to make life easier for them as filmmakers, rather than pushing them away, alienating them and constricting them, we are going to rebel, it is only natural. The country will lose in the end. The true creative will be frustrated OR he will give up and find a more acceptable environment. In the bigger picture, who really stands to gain or lose?This is where I stand on this matter.

*I encourage all my colleagues to please read the bill and the code of conduct for yourselves. And then decide....

Obasi is popular for his undefinedand "O-Town." He is currently working on the final film in the undefinedThe film will be set in 1996 in Owerri town, and will focus on the ritual murders that shook the town in 1996.
It reads:

This is a moment of truth. I commend the President for being bold enough to apologise for his lapses. He has come out to admit and accept that criticism is part of democracy. He can do whatever he likes, but it must be within the ambit of the law.

The President has swallowed his pride by admitting that there is a sharp drop in electricity and that we are experiencing an agonising fuel scarcity in the country. They told us the refineries are working, but that is a lie, we are still importing fuel.

The President cannot continue to apologise for everything. A leader must think very well before making policy statements.

Look at the Agatu killings. That place is a food basket for the country and when herdsmen went on the rampage, destroying lives and property, we should not fold arms.

It is an understatement to describe the elections in Kogi, Bayelsa and Rivers states by the Buhari administration as a show of shame. This is an aspect where the President has to be very careful. He must not allow himself to be used by some rejected and crooked politicians.

Fayose had earlier said that he would not stop criticizing Buhari and that his reason for doing so is to prevent the president from succumbing to dictatorial tendencies.

--------------------------------------------------------
The major contestants were All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, who was riding on the promise of change, and then incumbent, Goodluck Jonathan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was campaigning for continuity.

The elections were initially set to hold on February 14, but Jonathans government forced a postponement after it realized that Buhari stood a real chance of winning the polls.

By the grace of God when we had spoken to a few people, Jega had no option but to shift the date of the election, the leader of the Oodua People's Congress (OPC), Frederick Fasheun said on March 19 in reference to then Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Attahiru Jega.

"Because if the elections was not shifted, I bet you that Jonathan would have lost the election," Fasheun added.

Despite the delay tactics however, Buhari defeated Jonathan by more than two million votes to become Nigerias new president.

One year ago today, Nigerians voted overwhelmingly for Buhari and the change he and the APC promised, did they vote right?

Nigerians are still experiencing, under the current administration, all the problems they did under Jonathan including fuel scarcity, insecurity and poor electricity among others.

A lot of people have lost faith in the Buhari administration and some even regret voting for him.

However, the president has assured Nigerians that he still has three years to prove himself and fulfill his promises.

I know you are being harassed since the election that they havent seen anything on the ground. Well, if you have any explanation that could be accepted, (it) is that you have three more years to go, Buhari said on Thursday, March 24, 2016, during a meeting with APC leaders in Abuja.

The president has also begged Nigerians not to lose faith in his administration adding that the change he promised will come.

I urge you all therefore, to continue to have faith in the future greatness of our country and to believe that the CHANGE my administration promised will surely come to fruition, Buhari said on March 26 in his Easter message to Nigerians.

I thank the vast majority of Nigerians for their patience and understanding in the first ten months of this administration. We are moving on with an unshaken resolve and determination to deliver on the mandate you gave us on March 28, last year, he added.

The truth is that many Nigerians expect Buhari to perform magic and miracles and evaporate the countrys problems within days. Unfortunately, these problems are resting on a 16-year foundation hence solving them will take time.

This opinion was further expressed by Buharis media aide, Femi Adesinaduring a recent interview with Radio Continental.

President Muhammadu Buhari only promised change but Nigerians want magic. This change will come, but it will follow a process, and it will be enduring. Mr. President said it would take a minimum of 18 months to revive the economy. Nigerians dont listen to something like that; they want magic immediately. It doesnt happen that way, he said.

Buhari is not without his flaws, one of which is a penchant for keeping silent when his people desperately need to hear his voice. However, the current administration has taken more steps towards solving Nigerias problems than any other administration before it.

As bestselling author, Robin Sharma said, Change is hardest at the beginning, messiest in the middle and best at the end.

Nigerians made the choice to vote Buhari into office one year ago, but it is still too soon to decide if it was the wrong choice or the right one.

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Gunmen shot swimmers and sunbathers before storming into several hotels in the town of Grand Bassam, 40 km (25 miles) from the commercial capital, Abidjan, on March 13.

"The information concerning the arrests of two suspects in the north of Mali is true," said Lieutenant-Colonel Modibo Nama Traore, a military intelligence officer who said they had been picked up by gendarmes and the intelligence service.

Ivorian officials named the suspected ringleader as Kounta Dallah, but said he remained at large.

While Traore gave no further details of the arrests in Mali, a second intelligence officer said the two men were arrested separately on Saturday and Sunday in the towns of Goundam and Gossi in the northern Timbuktu region.

"One is even Kounta's driver," the intelligence officer said, asking not to be identified.

In its claim of responsibility for the Grand Bassam shooting rampage, AQIM said the attack was revenge for France's military intervention in Mali.

Eleven Ivorians, including three special forces' soldiers, died in the attack. Four French citizens were killed and other foreign victims included citizens of Germany, Lebanon, Macedonia and Nigeria.

Paris sent troops to its former colony in 2013 to drive out Islamist fighters who seized its desert north a year earlier. The intervention received support from Mali's regional neighbours, including Ivory Coast, which hosts a French military base.

Despite the successful intervention, violence is again rising in Mali, and militants are increasingly striking farther from their traditional desert strongholds.
Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has taken advantage of a war pitting the Iran-allied Houthis against forces loyal to exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi to grab territory and operate more openly.

The group has carried out attacks against the Yemeni state for years, plotted to blow up U.S.-bound airliners and claimed responsibility for the January 2015 attack in Paris on a French magazine that killed 12 people.

The United States has kept up a drone campaign against the militants, although it evacuated the last of its military and intelligence personnel from Yemen in March last year. Its attacks have killed some of AQAP's top leaders, including its chief, Nasser al-Wuhayshi, who was struck by a drone in June.

The United States has acknowledged using drones but declines to comment on specific attacks.
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RAPID CITY | Dennis D. Gifford Giff, 71, died on Friday, March 25, 2016, at his home.

He was born on Dec. 26, 1944, in Huron to Kenneth and Evelyn (Halbur) Gifford.

Giff joined the U.S. Air Force in 1965. He proudly served his country and his career took him to Hawthorne, NV, where he met his wife of 47 years. He served in Vietnam, Mather AFB, CA, Turkey, Hahn Germany and Ellsworth AFB, where he retired as a SMSGT in 1991 after 26 years of dedicated service. Upon his retirement, Giff attended National American University and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Emphasis in Information Technology.

He was a member of the Elks Lodge #1187, T.R.E.A. Chapter 29 and the American Legion Post 22. Giff was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed downhill snow skiing, waterskiing, golfing, hunting and a lifetime Vikings fan.

Giff will be remembered as a patriot and dedicated husband and father.

He is survived by his wife, Paquerette (Daisy), Rapid City, his mother, Evelyn Gifford, Rapid City, his daughter, Belinda (Ron) Langendoerfer, Omaha, NE, his son, James (Dee) Gifford, Omaha, NE, Granddaughter Brittany Langendoerfer, and three step grandsons, a brother, Kenneth (Beatrice) Gifford, Rapid City.

Giff was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth K. Gifford, and grandson, Kenneth J. Gifford

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. today at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home with Dan and Barb Gammeter officiating. Inurnment of his ashes will take place at noon at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, with military honors by the United States Air Force and TREA Chapter 29.
KADOKA | Oliver Earl Willert, 91, died Friday, March 25, 2016, at the Kadoka Nursing Home.

Oliver was born on Nov. 11, 1924, at the family farm house west of Belvidere. Oliver was the second of five sons born to Emil and Etta Willert. Growing up the family lived on a farm north of Belvidere, where Olivers son, Jim, now lives. Oliver enjoyed living in the country where the family farmed wheat and hay. When he was young, most of the farm work was done with horses.

Oliver attended a country grade school not too far from home. The family made the move to Kadoka in 1936 when Emil became sheriff and Oliver graduated from Kadoka High School in 1941. During his high school days Oliver played football and baseball.

Oliver joined the Army in 1946 and served in World War II. He played football in Germany while stationed there. Oliver attended South Dakota School of Mines and played football there as well. They played nine man and his position was the outside end. He graduated from the School of Mines in 1951 with a degree in civil engineering.

On May 26, 1951, Oliver married Shirley Addison. Together they raised two boys, Jerry and Jim. With his engineering degree he had the opportunity to work road construction in South Dakota and Iowa. Later he took a job with the South Dakota Department of Transportation. He had a lot of responsibility as part of the engineering department and he helped oversee the construction of Interstate 90 in the 1960s from Cactus Flat to Kennebec. After his work on the interstate, Oliver worked as the resident engineer for the SD DOT office in both Kadoka, and later, for four years in Winner, SD.

Oliver retired from the SD DOT after 20 plus years. During those years he experienced many changes in the equipment used and the process of how transportation projects were done. He was able to meet and work with a lot of people who he remained close friends with. He was also able to work on projects with his brother, Charles, and even spent a summer with his son, Jim.

Raising two boys kept life busy, especially since they were in rodeo. Oliver went to watch them whenever he had a chance and in later years he followed his grandsons as they competed. Oliver loved playing all types of card games including cribbage, poker, and pinochle. He was an active member of the Belvidere Community Church, the American Legion Post #27 of Kadoka, and the VFW Post #4674 of Winner.

Grateful for having shared his life are his two sons, Jerry Willert and his wife Cindy of Kadoka, and Jim Willert of Belvidere; four grandchildren, Nicolas Willert and his wife Rhonda of Strasburg, CO, Ryan Willert of Kadoka, Jamie Willert and his wife Christy of Kadoka, and Jeff Willert of Belvidere; and three great-grandchildren, Trinity, RJ, and Jessa.

Oliver was preceded in death by his wife Shirley on May 3, 2009; his parents; and four brothers, Marvin, Robert, Kenneth, and Charles.

Visitation from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 30, at the Rush Funeral Chapel in Kadoka.

Funeral services at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 31, at the Kadoka City Auditorium.

Military graveside services will be held 2:30 p.m. Thursday, at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the Kadoka Nursing Home or the Kadoka Ambulance Service.
Russia's anti-monopoly watchdog says interest in strategic assets on the rise

MOSCOW, March 28 (RAPSI)  The Government Commission for Monitoring Foreign Investments (Commission) has registered 11 petitions requesting investments in strategic assets and amounting to billions of US dollars since the beginning of 2016, Igor Artemyev, the head of Russia's Federal Anti-Monopoly Agency, told journalists.

In Q1 2016 we received more petitions than in 2015, a statement released by the watchdog quoted Artemyev as having said.

The petitions were filed by companies from Japan, US, Norway, and Cyprus, as well as some other countries, Artemyev said after the meeting of the Commission chaired by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.

Foreign businesses are interested in purchasing shares in companies servicing Russias ports, active in pharmaceutical business, nuclear and subsoil sectors, and printing equipment producers, according to Artemyev.

Notably, the acquisition of 15% of shares in Vankorneft, a subsidiary of Rosneft that owns the largest oil field discovered in Russia in 25 years, by India's Oil and Natural Gas Corp, was discussed at the meeting. ONGC is to pay about $ 1.3 billion for the right to take part in the development of the field.

The Commission also approved a petition which was filed by Molumin AG seeking to purchase 75% of shares in Geotekhnologia, a Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky based company controlling the second largest nickel deposit in the country.

We are working on about 15 such transactions, which is a lot. Even in quieter times we received significantly less than 15 transactions per quarter. I believe that investors, who desisted from any actions and movements under the conditions of political and economic uncertainty, started making serious decisions in Q1 2016 and approach the Commission. They desire to invest their money in strategic assets of the Russian state  it is a very good signal, a statement quoted Artemyev as having said.
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Kansas State football at TCU: Live notes and updates

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 A week of extraordinary reporting and commentary via The Crime Report | Main | NY Times laments "A Modern System of Debtor Prisons" 

I am very pleased to be able to post a timely call for papers sent my way by a former student who is now in law teaching and working hard in the arena of criminal justice reform and sentencing. Here are the event/paper details sent my way:

Indiana Tech Law School will dedicate its 2016 Annual Symposium to the pressing issue of the prison industrial complex, and specifically the role of private prisons in mass incarceration. The symposium, titled Private Prisons: The Corporatization of Criminal Justice and the New Marketplace for Crime, will seek to contextualize the criminal justice system against the backdrop of the for-profit prison system, particularly the systems reliance upon high rates of incarceration to sustain its business model. The symposium seeks to address a broad range of questions, including how the profit-motive of private prisons influences the length and severity of sentences and availability of parole, how private prisons and mass incarceration disproportionately impact communities of color, and how private prisons contribute to social inequality and oppression.

The United States imprisons more people, both per capita and in absolute terms, than any other nation in the world. Since the 1980s, the government has increasingly turned to private corporations to build, maintain, and operate prisons to house the burgeoning prison population. This unprecedented level of incarceration by for-profit corporations has important implications for law and policy, not only in the context of criminal justice but also in immigration detainment and deportation matters. Currently, forprofit prisons detain 6% of state prisoners, 16% of federal prisoners, and nearly half of all immigrants detained for documentation status.

The private prison system raises issues that touch upon criminal sentencing, immigration policy, the legitimacy of delegating carceral policy to the private sector, and fundamental liberty guarantees under the Fourteenth Amendment. We seek papers that will contribute to the important dialogue about the legal systems responsibility for both producing and correcting these outcomes. Papers accepted for the symposium will be published in a special symposium edition of the Indiana Tech Law Review.

Workshop Contacts: andre douglas pond cummings (ADCummings @ indianatech.edu), Adam Lamparello (AXLamparello @ indianatech.edu) and Yvonne Lindgren (YFLindgren @ indianatech.edu)

Submission procedure: Email a proposal of up to 500 words as a Word or PDF document by May 1, 2016. Please include your name, institution, and contact information in the proposal and submit it via email to Lydia LaMont (LGLaMont@indianatech.edu) with the subject line Symposium Call for Papers. Decisions will be made by June 1st and working paper drafts are due by October 15th.

Symposium Details: The Symposium will be held at Indiana Tech Law School in Fort Wayne, Indiana on November 11th. The program will consist of panel discussions and a keynote address.
 Call for Papers for Symposium on "Private Prisons: The Corporatization of Criminal Justice and the New Marketplace for Crime" | Main | Still more ugly details on the still ugly realities of the federal clemency process 

March 28, 2016

NY Times laments "A Modern System of Debtor Prisons"

The New York Times today ran this editorial headlined "A Modern System of Debtor Prisons." Here are excerpts:

Court systems commonly raise revenue by punishing people who commit minor offenses with fines, fees and penalties that can pile up, driving them into poverty. Worse still, state and local governments often jail people illegally for nonpayment, putting them at risk of losing their jobs and homes. The Justice Department responded forcefully to this problem in Ferguson, Mo. This month, the racially troubled town agreed to a federal plan to root out racist and unconstitutional practices in its Police Department and courts. The case put other state and local governments on notice that they, too, could be held accountable for operating court systems that violate the constitutional rights of people charged with nonpayment of fines. The guidelines issued by the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division explain in detail what courts can and cannot do when enforcing fine collections. The department says state and local courts have an obligation to inquire about a persons ability to pay fines and fees before jailing them for nonpayment. The Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that imprisoning a person because he or she is too poor to pay a fee amounts to punishing a person for his poverty and violates equal protection under the 14th Amendment.... The danger of unjust practices is magnified when courts hire private companies to collect court fines. These companies often operate without oversight, which leaves them free to adopt abusive tactics and bleed people with fees and penalties. The Justice Department makes clear that courts can be held accountable for constitutional violations committed by the firms they hire. The Ferguson reform plan is a reminder of how far state and local courts have strayed from the law in this area, and it provides a clear route to restoring lost justice for the indigent.

March 28, 2016 at 05:47 PM | Permalink

Comments

Please advise us of that Supreme Court case which you reference.

Posted by: Liberty1st | Mar 28, 2016 8:57:30 PM

"This would be little more than punishing a person for his poverty."

- BEARDEN v. GEORGIA

Posted by: Joe | Mar 29, 2016 9:47:13 AM

First of all, the Times editorial elides the serious issues with the Justice Department's edicts as they undermine the legitimate authority of local governments to impose fines for certain infractions (Note: this does NOT mean that I support the revenue-raising tactics of places like that--just that they are not unconstitutional because the infractions are not committed by groups in accordance with their numbers in the population). That's appalling--people should be fined for many many minor things (such as littering, public urination), and if they have the means, they should have to pay the fines.

Second, I'd be good with community service if it were real community service (like picking up trash along the side of the road, picking up recyclables etc.) But it never is.

Posted by: federalist | Mar 29, 2016 10:01:12 AM

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Leading a charge that is expected to ripple across the country, California governor Jerry Brown and the state legislature struck a deal Monday to raise the statewide minimum wage to $15 per hour over the course of the next six years. While San Francisco and Los Angeles have already passed local ordinances to do so sooner (SF by 2018, and LA by 2020), municipalities statewide will have to catch by 2022  and the way things are going, by that time $15 is likely to buy about as much as $10 does today, i.e. the current state minimum hourly wage.

As USA Today reports, the deal would boost the wages of 6.5 million Californians beginning in 2017, when the minimum will rise to $10.50. It will go to $11 in 2018, then go up a dollar each year to $15/hr in 2022. The deal will still need to pass through both houses of the CA legislature, but chances of it passing look pretty good, says the LA Times.

A tentative deal was struck late last week, as the AP and LA Times reported, and today Brown gave a news conference with legislators in Sacramento to make it official. Per the Times, Brown said this is "a matter of economic justice," and "It makes sense."

The timetable for the wage hike marks a compromise, given that labor leaders already had a state proposition qualified for the 2016 ballot that would have raised the minimum wage to $15 by 2021. Brown also got a caveat written into the deal: If statewide unemployment or the state has a projected deficit in its budget in the first few years of the agreement, the minimum wage hikes will go on pause.

Brown said that the current deal "is the result of a lot of thinking," and it's been written "in a way that takes into account the vagaries of the capitalistic economy.

Meanwhile, the federal minimum wage remains $7.25, where it has been stuck due to the efforts of Republicans in Congress since 2009. Oregon recently raised their state minimum to $15, and Seattle and some other California municipalities have done similarly  with the city of Berkeley recently talking about hiking theirs to $19, though they later nixed that idea. There's currently a proposal from New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to raise the state's minimum to $15/hr by 2021, with the New York City minimum hitting that mark by 2019.

Back in 2014, as both SF and LA were mulling their own minimum wage hikes, an anti-minimum wage campaign went up in both cities, funded by the conservative Employment Policies Institute and spearheaded by "evil" PR mastermind Rick Berman, who also does work to fight anti-smoking groups, teachers' unions, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and "nanny-state" bans of all kinds, as 60 Minutes reported.* The billboards threatened restaurant workers and teens with the notion that any rise in wages means that some of them will simply lose their jobs.

Related: Video: Kristin Bell As Minimum-Wage Mary Poppins

* This post has been corrected to show that, according to Berman's reps, he has not done any work on behalf of the tobacco industry.


The federal government announced today that it has successfully accessed the data on San Bernardino shooter Syed Farook's work iPhone 5C, and as such will drop its case demanding Apple build a backdoor into the phone. The legal battle sparked a nationwide controversy, with Apple and others arguing that, if complied with, the government's request would undermine the security of all Apple phones  a charge the government denied.

In a document filed this afternoon, the Justice Department says they don't need Apple's help after all.

"The government has now successfully accessed the data stored on Farooks iPhone and therefore no longer requires the assistance from Apple Inc. mandated by Courts Order Compelling Apple Inc. to Assist Agents in Search dated February 16, 2016," reads the filing. "Accordingly, the government hereby requests that the Order Compelling Apple Inc. to Assist Agents in Search dated February 16, 2016 be vacated."

While it is not exactly clear how access was obtained, it looks like Israel-based firm Cellebrite reportedly hired last week to break into the phone, succeeded in its efforts. News that the firm had been hired came shortly after the government moved to postpone its March 22 court date with Apple. Critics of the government argued that officials likely knew they could access the phone's data the entire time, and were merely taking the tech giant to court for the purposes of setting legal precedent.

As the New York Times notes, it remains "unclear what useful data, if any, was found on Mr. Farooks device."

At present, The Verge reports that we do not know the method by which authorities have gained access to the phone, or if the exploit is limited to the iPhone 5C. By dropping the case, the government now leaves the question of whether or not it can invoke the All Writs Act to compel a company to break its own encryption unresolved  so expect to see this issue come up again in the future.

Once again, as he did last week, Edward Snowden has posted an "I told you so" to Twitter.

Journalists: please remember that government argued for months that this was impossible, despite expert consensus. pic.twitter.com/7QdkjRKpXg  Edward Snowden (@Snowden) March 28, 2016

Previously: FBI Hires Israeli Firm Cellebrite To Unlock San Bernardino Shooter's iPhone


San Francisco's commitment to eliminating traffic fatalities by 2024, known as Vision Zero, is this year off to a tragic start. Adopted in 2014, the two-year-old initiative seeks to educate the public on safe driving habits while redesigning some of the most dangerous stretches of San Francisco streets. Despite these efforts, the first three months of 2016 have already seen seven traffic deaths (in stark contrast to the one death that had occurred by this time last year), and the Chronicle reports that pedestrian safety advocates are worried some Vision Zero initiatives are being watered down to accommodate merchants' demands for easy and accessible on-street parking.

Anything we do to redesign streets is going to have trade-offs, the paper reports SFMTA Director Ed Reiskin as saying, and one of those trade-offs is parking.

According to officials, approximately 30 people die on the streets of San Francisco each year. It is with this number in mind that proposals like building concrete center boarding islands on Taraval Street for the L-Taraval line are being put forth. The Chronicle informs us that 46 pedestrians have been hit on Taraval Street over the last five years, and the proposed boarding islands are expected to reduce that number  and remove some on-street parking in the process.

It will give pedestrians safety but it will suffocate any kind of prosperity on the street, Albert Chow of the People of Parkside-Sunset merchants association told the paper of the boarding islands. What we are trying to do is find a solution that will preserve parking and let traffic continue to flow.

And so merchants like Chow (he owns a Sunset hardware store) are advocating that SFMTA paint stripes in the street telling drivers to stop in lieu of SFMTA's island plan  an idea, the Chronicle reports, that SFMTA is considering testing out.

Cathy DeLuca of pedestrian advocacy group Walk SF, meanwhile, is not impressed. You can be Vision Zero leaders and not let this plan be watered down, she reportedly told the SFMTA board before noting directly to the Chron that her comment was "a call to action for the board to put pedestrian safety above all these other issues like parking.

So is Vision Zero at risk of falling short of its ambitious goal? It's likely too early to tell, as many of the proposed safety improvements have yet to be made and the results from completed changes may take a while to manifest in the data.

If you ask any good statistician, it takes a few years to see an actual trend, as MTA senior transportation planner Mari Hunter told Hoodline earlier this month. Even if we say [fatalities] go from 31 to 30, that would not be, Oh, were trending down.

So while it is too early in the year to tell if 2016's seven traffic deaths mean Vision Zero overall is stumbling, when combined with merchants' efforts to resist Vision Zero goals, the deaths paint an especially troubling picture for pedestrian safety improvements in our fair city.

Related: Driver In City-Owned Sedan Strikes And Kills Pedestrian


Between the recent violent assault of a couple, a wave of armed robberies, and at least two apparently random (and still unsolved) homicides in Duboce Triangle, residents are worried that crime in their once-sleepy neighborhood is out of control. Will a Town Hall meeting with those tasked to fight those crimes help assuage those fears?

That's what the San Francisco Police Department apparently hopes, as they announced on Saturday morning that they would be holding a "Crime & Quality of Life Town Hall Meeting" for Duboce Triangle residents at 6 p.m. Monday.

According to the event announcement, "Captain Sanford Jr. and the members of the Park Police Station will be present. Please come hear the Captain's strategic plan for addressing Crime & Quality of Life in the Duboce Triangle."

The meeting is scheduled to run from 6-8 p.m. Monday at the Harvey Milk Recreation Center at 50 Scott Street, and a ttendees are urged to "Bring your questions and concerns."

If the last area community meeting, held to discuss the proposed sex offender clinic at Church and Duboce, is any indication, I suspect that neither questions nor concerns will be in short supply.
Here's a round-up of legislative and Capitol news items of interest for Monday:

REYNOLDSON REMEMBERED: Justices of the Iowa Supreme Court, former colleagues and friends on Monday mourned the passing of Chief Justice W. Ward Reynoldson, who served 16 years on the Iowa Supreme Court -- including nine as chief justice. Reynoldson, who was appointed by Gov. Robert Ray, was remembered by his colleagues as a dedicated public servant whose career combined a profound respect for the rule of law, an unwavering support for fair and impartial courts, and a deep love of the Iowa Judicial Branch. "The Iowa court family is saddened by the passing of former Chief Justice Ward Reynoldson," Iowa Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Cady said in a statement. "Our sympathies go out to his wife, Pat, and his family." Reynoldson served on the Iowa Supreme Court from May 1, 1971, to Oct. 1, 1987. He served from Aug. 3, 1978, until his retirement as chief justice. He became a senior judge following his retirement. The 1983 court reorganization act took place during his tenure, transferred the expense of operating the court system (except the costs of district court facilities) from the counties to the state. Expanded News Media Coverage that allowed cameras in the courtroom also was established during his time on the court. Gov. Terry Branstad issued a statement Monday, saying, "It is with sadness that I learned former Chief Justice Ward Reynoldson passed away today. Justice Reynoldson swore me in both as an attorney in 1974 and as governor in 1983. He served in the U.S. Navy in World War II and was a dedicated public servant with a distinguished career as chief justice of the Iowa Supreme Court. I always had great admiration and respect for him and he will be greatly missed."

EMPLOYING IOWANS WITH DISABILITIES: Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds used their weekly news conference Monday to tout Iowa as the third-best state in the nation for empowering individuals with disabilities through employment. That ranking was based on date included in the disability advocacy group RespectAbilityUSA's 2015 Disability Statistics Annual Report. According to the group, Iowa rose from No. 7 to third by increasing from have 44.8 percent of the state's 169,300 working-age people with disabilities employed in 2013 to 46.5 percent one year later. RespectAbilityUSA is a non-profit organization working to educate, sensitize and engage Americans to focus on what people with disabilities can do rather than what they cannot do.

UNPRESIDENTIAL POLITICS: Gov. Terry Branstad told reporters Monday it is time for GOP presidential candidates Donald Trump and Ted Cruz stop hurling insults about each other and focus on important issues of substance in the 2016 race for the party's nomination. "I think it's not a good situation to have personal attacks," said the six-term Republican. "I think the focus ought to be on the substance of the issues. We're living in a very dangerous world," the Iowa governor said. Branstad the focus of the campaign should be on how best to protect the safety and well-being of American citizens, battling terrorism and reducing the national debt that now tops $19 trillion. "I don't think we have a lot of time to ignore these huge problems any longer," he said.

VOLUNTEERS TO BE RECOGNIZED: Officials with the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs say they will be hosting a Volunteer Recognition Day at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery located at the Van Meter exit (Exit 113) on Interstate 80 -- about 10 miles west of Des Moines. The purpose of the event is to recognize the efforts of volunteer organizations and individuals who have dedicated their time and efforts to the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. Governor Terry Branstad and Bishop Richard Pates of the Diocese of Des Moines will be guest speakers. For more information, contact the department's outreach coordinator at meghan.larkins@iowa.gov or 5i5-727-3442.

MOMENT OF SILENCE: Gov. Terry Branstad opened his weekly news conference Monday by requesting a moment of silence for the victims and their family members in the wake of a fiery fatal traffic accident on Interstate 80 near Waukee last week. The two-vehicle mishap killed four people, including two Des Moines police officers -- Carlos Puente-Morales, 34, and Susan Farrell, 30. Another victim Tosha Nicole Hyatt, 32, of Des Moines, was a prisoner being transported by the officers when a vehicle going the wrong way on Interstate 80 slammed into the police SUV near Waukee on Saturday morning. The driver of the other vehicle had not been identified.

QUOTE OF THE DAY: "I believe that we are defined by the problems that we solve and not by the barriers that we face." -- Gov. Terry Branstad on Monday discussing Iowa's efforts to help more individuals with disabilities find employment opportunities.
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
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.

(March 28, 2016)The Prince Frederick Barrack of the Maryland State Police (MSP) today released the following incident and arrest reports.POSSESSION OF K2 SPICE, RESISTING ARREST: On 3/21/2016 at 6:27 pm, Trooper First Class Barlow responded to the 7-Eleven in Sunderland to check the welfare of a person slumped over in a vehicle. Rory M. Lohman, 41 of Huntingtown, was located and appeared to be intoxicated. Lohman refused to exit the vehicle. CDS Paraphernalia was observed in plain view and K2 spice was located in the vehicle. Lohman was arrested and charged with resisting arrest, possession of CDS and paraphernalia. He was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.IMPERSONATING AN OFFICER, FRAUD: On 3/21/2016 at 7:32 pm, Trooper First Class Lewis responded to the 3000 block of Lawrin Ct. in Chesapeake Beach, in regard to a fraudulent report provided to the homeowner's insurance company. Michelle J. Murphy, 44 of Chesapeake Beach, was arrested for filing a fraudulent lost property report to her insurance company for property she claimed was missing from her vehicle. On the fraudulent form, Ms. Murphy had signed the section representing a police officer. She was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY: On 3/22/2016 at 8:15 pm, Trooper First Class Lewis responded to the WaWa in Prince Frederick for a reported disturbance. The manager explained that two customers had begun to argue and one had damaged an electronic ordering screen. Shannon R. Wallace, 28 of Lusby, was arrested for destruction of property. She was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.POSSESSION OF COCAINE: On 3/24/2016 at 8:53 pm, Corporal Newman was conducting a patrol check at the Fastop in St. Leonard, and was asked by the manager to remove two patrons from the store. A female patron was released without incident and instructed to not return to the store. David L. Gray, 32 of Lusby, was found to be in possession of cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.UNAUTHORIZED USE OF MOTOR VEHICLE: On 3/25/2016 at 3:27 pm, Trooper First Class Rowe handled a complaint regarding an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. The victim reported David F. Schultz, 37 of Washington, DC did not return his 2008 Lexus to his residence in Solomons as requested. On 3/26/16, the vehicle was returned to the victim. A criminal summons has been issued for Schultz charging him with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Case remains open.Ivan M. Lynch, 45, of Hyattsville, arrested on 03/24/2016 @ 06:18 am by TPR. P. KaitzJoseph E. Haller, 54, of Lusby, arrested on 03/25/2016 @ 11:29 am by TPR. C. MegelickStephen T. Kimble, Jr. 29, of Brandywine, arrested on 03/26/2016 @ 02:10 am by TFC C. EsnesJessie Holland, III, 23, of Owings, arrested on 03/26/2016 @ 02:32 pm by TFC K. RoweDonna R. Doverspike, 55, of Glen Burnie, arrested on 03/27/2016 @ 02:42 pm by TFC S. Matthews
ANNAPOLIS (March 24, 2016)The Maryland Senate unanimously passed one of the most sweeping criminal justice reform bills in decades on Thursday after contentious debate over several amendments.



The bill, SB1005, more commonly known as the Justice Reinvestment Act, would offer non-violent offenders, such as drug users, treatment and the possibility of post-conviction expungement (cleaning the record), while incarceration would still be emphasized for violent offenders.



It would also reduce mandatory sentencing for drug possession crimes, raise the threshold for felony theft charges, eliminate or reduce jail time for those driving on a suspended license, and call for better parole practices and addiction treatment services.



Dramatic move but not perfect



Sen. Nathaniel McFadden, D-Baltimore City, who has worked on reforming the criminal justice system for more than two decades, echoed sentiments shared by many of his colleagues saying although the bill is not perfect, it's passage is not only historic, but represents an equitable bipartisan compromise. The committee made some changes to the reforms to keep harsher terms for violent offenders.



"This is a dramatic move forward," McFadden said. "Is it a perfect move? Nothing is perfect. Does everyone agree? Absolutely not! And when I came into this body, the old sages would say, if the left is unhappy and the right is unhappy, you're probably doing something right, because you're moving in the direction that makes our state better,"



If the bill becomes law, it would have a broad impact on judicial spending across state and local agencies. Over time, the Department of Legislative Services estimate that the savings will increase over the costs, so the state will be saving a net $17.5 million by fiscal 2021.



The bill calls for the state to pass on some savings to the counties in performance grants since local incarceration spending may also increase as municipalities are forced to absorb inmates normally housed by the state.



Worries about violent offenders



Sen. Bobby Zirkin, D-Baltimore County, chair of the Judicial Proceedings Committee, said the committee amended the bill so that reforms of violations of probation and administrative parole weren't too lenient.



He said as proposed the bill set caps on the amount of jail time given to offenders who violated parole "no matter what"15 days for the first offense, 30 days for the second, 45 days for the third offense.



"What you were not told and what was in the original bill, is that this provision applied not just to non-violent offenders, this provision applied to murderers, rapists, sex offenders, domestic violence, sex traffickers, and everybody else, no exceptions," Zirkin said. "So what the Judicial Proceedings Committee said was in the cases where somebody is at risk, where there is a risk to public safety, where a victim or a witness is in danger, the judge could move off of the matrix, that's all that amendment did."



Zirkin described administrative parole as "automatic parole." In one example, if an offender with a 10-year sentence did all the things in the bill to get parole, the offender would be out in just 2.5 years automatically without going before a parole commission.



Describing problems with the administrative parole provision Zirkin said, "Let me tell you who was also included in that provision before JPR got ithuman traffickers, abduction of a child under 16 for the purposes of a sex crime, involuntary manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter, driving under the influence, killing somebody while you're driving under the influence, second degree assault, including domestic violence, solicitation to commit murder or rape, conspiracy to commit murder or rape, felony animal cruelty."



"A lot of very violent crimes were left out of this bill, which is the two amendments that the Baltimore Sun referenced, we decided in JPR that we wanted to make sure that for the violent criminals, for the dangerous criminals, that judges would have some discretion, I think it would be insane not to give them discretion for these violent criminals," Zirkin said.



Kelley challenges Zirkin's assertions



Sen. Delores Kelley, D-Baltimore County, applauded the Judicial Proceedings Committee for their hard work on crafting the original bill, but suggested Zirkin's characterization of the original bill as benefitting violent criminals was not accurate.



Kelley said that he pointed out more extreme examples, but most probation violations are more minor offenses such as missing a meeting with a parole officer or failing to have a job.



"So we can take unusual and extreme cases and try to make them the norm, but they are not the norm," she said.



Kelley also said that judges already have adequate leeway to punish those who violate probation or parole.



"Nobody in here wants violent people on the street, but the judge is going to consider violence because that's one of the aggravating factors when he sentences initially."



Treatment for non-violent offenders



Sen. Michael Hough R-Frederick, a member of Judicial Proceedings, said his personal experience growing up with an alcoholic father partly motivated him to support the bill's treatment provisions for those who suffer from substance abuse.



"Ultimately, what this bill does is it makes a huge change as far as how we treat people with addiction, it says instead of incarceration, we're gonna send them to treatment and that in itself is a huge fundamental change," Hough said.



Hough said the committee carefully considered the impact disparities in mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenders have for those who live in poorer neighborhoods and also said that for the first time this legislation offers the possibility of expungement for certain offenses.



Sen. Jim Brochin D-Baltimore County, expressed reservations about expungement provisions in the bill for certain offenses such as theft, and said he was previously skeptical when former Baltimore Mayor Kurt Schmoke advocated treatment as opposed to incarceration for those who are addicted to drugs, but now supports the idea.



Said Brochin "People came down on him really hard, and I actually at the time thought he was wrong also and I came down hard on him as well, and I was wrong, and I stand here saying I was wrong and now 20 years later I have to opportunity to make that right and to do something that we should have done long time ago, which is to treat addiction as a medical issue and in this bill the presumption now is that you go to treatment."
LA PLATA, 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.

(, 2016)The Charles County Sheriff's Office today released the following incident and arrest reports.POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: On March 26 at approximately 12:07 a.m., an officer initiated a traffic stop in the 2400 block of Crain Highway in Waldorf. Upon making contact with the driver, the officer detected the odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed marijuana, oxycodone, a digital scale, other paraphernalia, and a loaded handgun in the drivers possession. Justice Patrick Sneed, 20, of Upper Marlboro, was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances and marijuana, and transporting a handgun in a vehicle. Officer R. Pickeral investigated.OFFICERS INVESTIGATING DAMAGED FIRE HYDRANT: On March 25 at approximately 5:15 p.m., a freight truck made a right-hand turn onto Sub Station Road from Old Washington Road in Waldorf and ran over a fire hydrant. The damaged hydrant began to flood the road, and public utilities responded to shut the hydrant off and clean the road up, which had begun to erode and was covered in mud. The driver of the truck is unknown. PFC J. Foster is investigating.
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.

(March 28, 2016)The Calvert County Sheriff's Office today released the following incident and arrest reports.WEEKLY SUMMARY: During the week of March 21 through March 27, deputies responded to 1,455 calls for service throughout the community.CDS VIOLATION CASE #16-17351: On March 25, 2016, Deputy K. Williamson responded to the Calvert County Detention Center for a CDS violation. Through a check, it was identified that inmate,, was prescribed (Alprazolam) but in the pill bottle was (Methadone). Mr. Gray was charged with one count each of CDS possession not Marijuana, possession or received CDS while confined and possession of contraband in a place of confinement.POLICE INFORMATION CASE #16-17000: On March 24, 2016, Deputy A. Curtin responded to Southern Maryland Blvd., in Owings for the report of a suspicious vehicle. An unknown vehicle entered the caller's driveway. The vehicle is described as a black in color Ford F-150 (newer body style, possibly 2005 model) with an extended cab. The caller observed a male walking away from his shed at the rear of his residence. The male was described as pulling a cart, believed to be silver in color. After this, the unknown male placed the cart into the rear cargo area of the truck and backed out of his driveway. It is also worth noting, the vehicle entered the driveway with no head lamps on.BURGLARY CASE #16-16374: On March 21, 2016, Deputy C. Ward was dispatched to a theft located at Regal Lane, in Dunkirk. A Craftsman snow blower had been stolen from a shed. The victim advised that he noticed the door of the shed off the hinges on March 17, 2016.BURGLARY CASE #16-16462 AND #16-16456: On March 21, 2016, Deputy A. Locke was called to Lexington Drive, in Dunkirk, for a burglary at two different residences. A Troy-Bilt snow blower had been stolen from an unlocked shed at one residence. A Craftsman Tiller, a Craftsman 6,500 Generator and a new 5 gallon gas can was stolen from the second residence.THEFT CASE #16-16580 AND #16-16575: On March 22, 2016, Deputy C. Ward was dispatched to King Drive, in Dunkirk for a report of a theft. An ARIW snow blower was taken from the property. On March 22, 2016, Deputy D. Clark responded to Briscoe Turn Road, in Owings for the report of stolen lawn equipment. An Echo grass trimmer, two Echo backpack blowers, an Echo hedge trimmer and a 16" chainsaw, were missing from the victim's enclosed trailer.THEFT CASE #16-17270: On March 25, 2016, Deputy K. Williamson responded to St. Paul's Church, in Prince Frederick, for a report of a theft. Investigation revealed that, and, entered the church. A donation box was taken from the church. They were both taken to the CCDC and charged with one count each of Theft $1,000 to $10,000 and Malicious Destruction of Property less than $1,000.THEFT CASE #16-16909: On March 23, 2016, Deputy J. Livingston was dispatched to the Walmart in Prince Frederick for a theft. A male, later identified as, fled the store into the woods. Hall was told to stop running and continued to flee. With the help of Det. Rector and DFC Boerum, Mr. Hall was taken into custody. A warrant check was conducted and Mr. Hall had an open warrant for child support through the Sheriff's office. During the theft, an assault occurred between Mr. Hall and. Both subjects were taken into custody for Assault-2nd Degree and Hall was also charged for Theft less than $1,000.DAMAGE TO PROPERTY CASE #16-16383: On March 21, 2016, Deputy M. Velasquez responded to Round Up Rd., in Lusby for a report of destruction of property. The victim stated that between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., an unknown suspect(s) broke into his vehicle and damaged it. The unknown suspect damaged the vehicle by scratching the paint job, spray painting the exterior and interior of the vehicle with black paint, and cut all the interior seats with a sharp object.
It was first introduced in to Congress in 1974

Its been more than a year since LGBT Floridians celebrated marriage equality in the state, but the fight for equality still rages on.

It was also last year that the Equality Act was introduced in Congress, filled with eager goals for LGBT Americans to be able to live free from discrimination.

The Equality Act is definitely historic, but not unprecedented, pointed out Chris Rudisill, the new executive director at the Stonewall National Museum and Archives.

It all began on May 14, 1974, when Democratic Reps. Bella Abzug and Ed Koch brought forth the Equality Act of 1974 to the House of Representatives, which would make it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their sexual orientation.

Hopes were actually high, even in a time prior to any previous pro-LGBT equality legislation, Rudisill said, noting that the early 70s were a time of great civil rights fervor in the country, namely for gay rights.

The Stonewall Riots kicked up the movement in 1969 and various grassroots advocacy groups were hitting the streets in newsworthy protests and zaps. However, despite their efforts and the interest in gay rights nationally, the bill failed to make it past the committee. Various versions of the bill would be resurrected three more times in 1975, but still failed.

Twenty years later, in 1994, congressmen tried another angle to give equality to LGBT people through the Employment Non Discrimination Act. Every year it has been brought forward -- save for two years during President George W. Bushs administration -- and every year it failed. Rudisill noted that it had the best chance of passing in 2007, but only if gender identity had been removed from the bill.

According to the Human Rights Campaign, 63 percent of LGBT Americans have experienced discrimination in the workplace, so ENDA would prove to be vital. Currently, only 19 states have protections for LGBT people in the workplace, namely states in the West and Northeast.

In July 2015, the Equality Act was resurrected from the history books by Democratic Rep. David Cicilline. After all, LGBT people deserve equality on all fronts, not just in the workplace. The new bill expands upon the famed Civil Rights Act of 1965 and guarantees protections for LGBT people, including housing, education, the workplace, and more.

Theres a lot of very strong support for the bill, said Brandon Lorenz, communications campaign director at the HRC.

Its a brand new bill, but we had a record number of cosponsors upon its introduction, and endorsement from Ted Olson and David Boies, he added, referring to the two lawyers who fought against and ultimately won their lawsuit that overturned Proposition 8 in California.

However, Lorenz sees this as a long-term project for America, not an overnight guarantee. Throughout 2016, HRC plans to help build support for the bill in the business community and in Congress.

As for the American people? Theres an overwhelming percentage of support for equality for LGBT people, regardless of political affiliation. According to the HRC, 78 percent of Americans support nondiscrimination laws for LGBT people. Most Americans, in fact, would probably be surprised to learn that LGBT people don't already have these protections.

One should have the opportunity to earn a living, to live free from fear of discrimination, and provide for their families, including people who are LGBT, Lorenz said. There are a number of states across the country where you can get married, maybe post a picture on your Facebook page, and youre at risk when you go back to work ... because we dont have explicit nondiscrimination protections.
As much as we all love to relax over a leisurely meal, lets face it, we usually dont have the time. How often have you been running errands or have only a few minutes between appointments and find yourself so hungry you could eat the steering wheel? When that happens, fight the urge to pull up to the drive-through of a fast food franchise, and check out one of these options.

Jack's Old Fashion Hamburger House

4201 N. Federal, Fort Lauderdale

954-565-9960

591 S. Cypress, Pompano

954-942-2844

JacksOldFashionHamburgers.com

Jacks not only looks like a throw-back to a 60s burger joint, the menu still reflects that simple menu. While not quite the same price as youd pay back then, the burgers are pretty reasonably priced, especially when you compare them to the slew of new gourmet burger joints (Im talking to you BurgerFi and Shake Shack). Cooked fresh to order, the burgers range in size from quarter to half pound and are ground fresh daily from whole briskets of USDA beef. They taste like a real hamburger that your dad used to cook on the grill.

Humpys Pizza

2244 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors

954-566-2722

HumpysPizza.com

You cant beat Humpys meat. Humpys features standard (sausage, meatball, pepperoni) and unusual (Buffalo and BBQ chicken, roasted wild mushrooms) pizza toppings, available by the slice, and those slices are huge. Check out the lunch special; you get a slice, salad and soda for $5 (slightly more for special ingredients). There is also an occasional special; buy two slices get a soda for free.

Dairy Belle

118 N. Federal, Dania Beach

954-920-3330

DairyBelleIceCream.com

Canadians, and those fond of Canadian cuisine (!) head to Dairy Belle for that classic poutine, a pile of French fries tossed with salty, mozzarella-like white cheese curds smothered in hot gravy. The gravy melts the cheese and youre left with a delicious mess. Dairy Belle also offers a variation, poutine Italienne, substituting red sauce for the gravy. Or, try the galvaude, which adds shredded chicken and peas to the classic poutine. Order a large with the works and youll still walk away with change from your $10.

Zona Fresca

1635 North Federal, Fort Lauderdale

954-566-1777

ZonaFresca.com

Yes, it is a chain, but a small one, and all of the food is made to order. That means you may have to wait for a few minutes for your food, but Im certain you wont mind; the guys behind the counter are gorgeous. The dining room is also usually filled with so many hot guys that youd think it was the break room for a porn shoot. Im partial to the burrito with marinated charbroiled chicken, a choice of black or pinto beans, jack and cheddar cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream. Best of all, its only $7.95 and it comes with a handful of freshly made tortilla chips. Other filling options include the roasted pork or machaca burrito with slowly braised shredded beef, pinto beans, jack and cheddar cheese, avocado, lettuce and pico de gallo. If youre looking for something lighter, order what all those hotties are having; the Cali-wrap, which features chicken, avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro and lettuce, tossed in lemony dressing or the grilled shrimp and mango salad. Nothing here costs more than $10.

Knucklehead Burgers

4900 S. University, Davie

954-434-0013

KnuckleHeadsBurgers.com

If youre looking for a taste of the Midwest, head over to Knucklehead and order the Mahoney's Baloney. The sandwich features two thick slices of grilled Boar's Head bologna, a fried egg and American cheese between two slices of Texas toast. It aint healthy, but it sure is good. And, its only $6.

Smitty's Old Fashioned Butcher Shop

1980 NE 45th Street, Oakland Park

954-771-9341

SmittysMeatsAndWines.com

The old-school butcher shop doesnt make a big deal about it, they dont even mention it on their web site, but theyll put together a hearty sandwich for you. Opt for the Italian, laden with salami, sopressata, and ham, and then dressed with hot and sweet peppers, a ripe tomato, provolone, onions, mustard, oil, and vinegar in a crusty roll.

Pollo Tropical

PolloTropical.com

OK, so its a chain with hundreds of locations, but I have to admit I love the food at Pollo Tropical and so does my husband who is a picky eater and a vegetarian! I usually opt for the chicken and rib combo. Its a carnivores dream; featuring one-quarter of a chicken and a half-rack of Caribbean Ribs. The tropical barbecue sauce and herbs must be laced with crack, 'cause Im addicted. I also appreciate the variety of sauces available. In addition to the Caribbean sauce, the condiment bar offers up guava BBQ, pineapple rum sauce and a cilantro cream. The chicken wings are equally good and the Tropi-Chop bowls allow you to customize your meal by picking a protein (chicken, mojo roast pork or calypso beef), a base (yellow, white or brown rice with veggies or lettuce) and toppings (beans, chopped fresh tomatoes, corn, sauteed onions and sauteed peppers). Even the sides are not your typical fast food fare; tomatoes and red onions in a balsamic vinaigrette, steamed green beans in a garlic-cilantro butter, macaroni and cheese and, often, Caribbean corn souffle. Theres a vegetarian Tropi-Chop and often seasonal options, such as shrimp.

The next time your stomach starts growling in traffic consider one of these options where you can have it your way because you deserve a break today, so head for the border.
It was serendipity that Kylar Broadus was born on the same day as Martin Luther King, Jr.s march on Washington, D.C.

A transgender activist, Broadus grew up in a small rural town in Missouri, the grandchild of slaves. For years, he searched for a way to describe why he didnt feel right in his skin -- in his adult years, he would discover the word transgender.

After transitioning, the attorney and college professor has been fighting for the rights for transgender people of color, including testifying before the Senate and creating the Trans People of Color Coalition.

What are your memories of growing up trans?

I dont think I ever told anyone else because I knew it wasnt something safe, that I was different, that I felt different from other people, other kids. I just remember my first memory of knowing the difference between he and she and somebody referring to me as she and thinking, who are they talking to? I would try to read and find and see if there was anything, trying to find people like me. There was no Internet, so youre out reading and reading and trying to figure it out I felt like I was dropped into the wrong life that's not mine.

I passed mostly for male most of the time throughout my life, even as a kid. My mother tried to gender me up and it was the most uncomfortable feeling. It was the most ickiest thing ever. My mother commuted to work to a larger town, 40 minutes away. I would change my outfits in kindergarten.

How did being black impact your experience as a transgender child?

We were very color conscious. Im a very light skinned black American so there were fights. I had both gender and race issues going on. I remember being beat up every day. [My parents] wanted us to go to school to learn, because of course they did not have the opportunity to do that I grew up very much an introvert.

What about as an adult?

I didnt feel akin to lesbian, but it was the closest thing to me. I had a hard time identifying with that I just kind of lived, some people would say, between the worlds. I hid my body and covered it through school to be more masculine. I wanted to stay in school forever so I wouldnt have to go out and get a job, which is totally gendered, and wear a skirt and panty hoes. I was mortified. I didnt transition until my late 20s.

My gender expression as I grew into my 20s, its always been masculine. I was always considered ambiguous. I could never use the public restrooms without being accosted by police if I went into the womens room I spent every day praying to God: fix me, change me.

What was your breaking point?

I just couldnt stand it anymore. I was then having to dress like someone else everyday in drag to go to work, just to make a living, and it was just so repelling to me, it was the hardest thing I could do -- except for when I got home at night.

Then you transitioned in 1994.

I never hid my transition because people of color are close to families, and my family I was really close to, so I was not going to move somewhere else and pretend to be somebody else even though every single day my life was at risk. When I was out, it really wasnt cool to be out and trans because the previous teachings had been to blend into society and hide yourself. I chose to be out at whatever cost that meant because I wasnt going to let people have power over me.

You were working in finance, when did you get into advocacy?

Tons of the movement was recognizable because the Internet became more available. I was starting to connect with other people that were like me, and we had small conferences then that were gender affirming and thought, wow, these people are just like me. I know that Im not crazy, that I'm not nuts, that I have to be me all the time and not pretend to be somebody else.

I decided to take up advocacy because when I was separated from my job, it was basically because I was coming out as trans because I was already wearing suits and ties at that time to work. Immediately losing your income and your livelihood and how you value yourself, it was just devastating.

You were appointed to your citys Human Rights Commission and you became a referral for many organizations.

That was to me at least one victory, of being appointed. We were trying to make change, we didnt get through a trans policy until a decade later when there was a new administration in and after I left, but I started the way for that. If we can get local ordinances and state protections, we can make the case for employment discrimination for trans people.

I would go get people out of jail in different jurisdictions because they were being jailed for being trans. They were trumped up charges, because the whole town had considered [the transgender person] had lied to them.

You founded the Trans People of Color Coalition in 2010, why?

As I continued to do this work, I would meet many trans people of color and we would coalesce at meetings and talk and everybody felt isolated, even though they may have been in a large city and they were a person of color. Everybody had the same story to tell to me and they felt they were not represented by the greater movement, which is typical of greater movements -- the trans movement is quite a bit behind the gay movement in organizing. There have been tons of color groups that have come out, trans special, but there were none when we opened our doors. We saw this need. Who can better represent us than us?

In 2012, you testified before the Senate on ENDA -- the first transgender person to do so. How did you feel?

What I felt was immense responsibility for the community, not even to myself, even through telling my story and trying to broad brush other stories within my stories and weave them together, to make sure they got a clear picture of what all trans people suffer.

What is the outlook for transgender kids today?

I talk to young kids today who have that same feeling [of being alone], and you think it would change because of the Internet and so forth. Theres still lots of changes that need to happen, especially for our youth.

What would you go back and tell young Kylar?

Life can be as you make it. Once I took the bull by the horns and said, Im going to live life as I need to -- you can make it. Trans is OK, trans is human, and youre a good person and youll help other people live a good, healthy life.
It was the theater that drove him away from religion, and it was the theater that brought him back.

Ramy Eletreby, a writer and performer living in Los Angeles, struggled for years with being Muslim and a gay man after being outed in a newspaper article.

Aspiring to be an actor, Eletreby accepted the role of a gay Muslim man in the play "A Long Bridge Over Deep Waters." Even before opening night, it was considered controversial by the Muslim community because of his character. In fact, two actors left the production after struggling to reconcile their faith with the character in the play, and a third actor left for allegedly similar reasons, according to the Los Angeles Times.

With all the brouhaha, the newspaper wrote an article in June 2005 and interviewed Eletreby about it -- including that he really is gay.

It turned into an entire call for the Muslim community to boycott this play because were perpetuating things that they didnt support, he told the Mirror. [The LA Times] asked why I was willing to play the character and basically I outed myself.

This was news to his family and his community -- while he doesnt regret coming out, he does admit he should have had a sit down with his family first to let them know ahead of time. Eletreby said people were shocked, but rather than be angry at him, people refused to believe it could be true.

It was a lot of not really wanting to believe in its truth or validity because you can't be gay. Theres this belief that God does not create people that way and you choose to be this way. We know that you are not gay, but yet you seem to believe that you are gay, he explained.

A lot of people thought I was confused or influenced or I was in need of some psychological help, he said. I didnt like the narrative around what was happening, that I was being treated like I was a mental case.

Advocacy for LGBT people is relatively new within the Muslim world. In 1997, the Al-Fatiha Foundation was founded as an advocacy group by Faisal Alam, an out Pakistani-American, when he was just 19. In 2001, the terrorist group Al-Muhajiroun in the United Kingdom allegedly put out a fatwa, calling the group apostates and claiming the homosexual acts are punishable by death, according to the Washington Blade.

"The very existence of Al-Fatiha is illegitimate and the members of this organization are apostates. Never will such an organization be tolerated in Islam and never will the disease which it calls for be affiliated with a true Islamic society or individual. The Islamic ruling for such acts is death.

The group carried on, but unfortunately when Alam stepped down in 2005, the group was unable to keep going. One of the largest groups representing LGBT Muslims today, the Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity, founded in 2013, hosts an annual retreat, the Retreat for LGBTQ Muslims and Partners.

After the LA Times article, Eletreby isolated himself from others -- or run away as he described it -- as he tried to come to terms with being both gay and a practicing Muslim. He stopped communicating with other Muslims, didnt go to mosque, and basically stopped practicing the religion that had been a part of his life for so long. He says he wasnt cut out, but he cut himself out in an act of self preservation.

Instead, Eletreby went to the other end of the spectrum and considered himself to be an atheist and displayed anger towards all organized religion. He believes this was a part of the grieving process of losing Islam.

I eventually started missing some of the spirituality that had been a huge part of my life growing up. I missed fasting during Ramadan and I missed the feeling of community, he said. It was a part of my identity, so to also deny that for many years was tough.

It was the stage that helped him get it back.

While in graduate school in New York City, he went to a play with a friend in the East Village where two LGBT Muslim women were a part of the play. They talked about living their life and spirituality, moving Eletreby to tears.

I was forever changed, he said. It was beautiful to see people come to a place of reconciliation because in my life, it was a separation. It was very comforting. It was like, I cant believe I never imagined this for myself. It could have been mine this whole time. I found the warm blanket that I was looking for.

While in New York, he was also exposed to a community of out Muslim people, something he didnt have in Los Angeles. It was a growing process that helped him see that he could successfully be a gay man and a Muslim at the same time.

Today, Eletreby is back living in Los Angeles and is not a part of a religious community, but has created his own way of worship. He tries to read the Quran every night before bed and believes that his own personal relationship with God is what matters, rather than relying on sermons from imams. Also, he has reestablished a good relationship with his family.

Im not seeking any justification or validation from religious leaders, and its liberating, he said. The only validation I need is between me and God, and Im working really hard to establish that and make sure that connection is strong.

What would he tell other young Muslims who might be feeling confused?

Patience is one of the things that is most stressed in the Koran, too, in our faith. To be able to live life with patience, you cant always get what you want, you cant always have it now, as long as you are steadfast and true that you are on the right path, youd be surprised as to what comes along.
Two members of an LGBT household have filed complaints against Philadelphia police after several officers attempted to gain entry into their residence without a search warrant.

On March 18, Zena McDonnell and Angel Young filed complaints at the 16th Police District, which covers West Philadelphia.

The incident occurred at 7 p.m. March 15 at their residence on the 4000 block of Haverford Avenue in Powelton.

Multiple police officers attempted to gain entry, and shined spotlights into several windows on the first and second floors of the residence, according to McDonnell.

McDonnell, 34, said she repeatedly refused the officers demands to gain entry, explaining to them that they didnt have a search warrant signed by a judge. After about 30 minutes, the officers left. The incident left residents shaken and upset, McDonnell said.

The officers said they needed to investigate whether anyone inside stole $30 from someone, which didnt sound reasonable, according to McDonnell.

If anyone ran into our house with a handful of money, the first thing we would have done is to call the police, McDonnell explained.

No one in the house fit the description of the alleged thief, she added.

McDonnell is a trans woman. She said none of the officers used anti-LGBT language. But she cant rule out the possibility that the house was targeted because it has several LGBT residents.

At this point, we dont know why this happened, and what they were looking for, she said.

She said one officer was particularly hostile. The officer made idle threats and insulted us when we invoked our Fourth Amendment rights, McDonnell said.

According to McDonnell, the officer told residents: Dont call the police if someone points a gun in your face.

No one  LGBT or otherwise  should be told something like that, McDonnell said. I certainly dont want anyone else to be told: Dont call the police in the future because you invoked your constitutional rights. Thats horrifying and shouldnt happen to anybody.

One of the officers said, I can smell why you wont let us in, without elaborating, according to McDonnell.

She said residents are concerned about the potential for future police abuse or harassment.

Were concerned that we wont receive police services when we need them. On the other hand, were concerned that well be harassed by police when were just trying to live our lives as ordinary citizens.

McDonnell said a housemate expressed fear of retaliation if a complaint were to be filed. But McDonnell assured the housemate that complaints were necessary.

Im convinced that no one should be afraid to walk into their police district and file a complaint when appropriate, she continued.

She said personnel at the 16th Police District were respectful when she and Young filed their complaints.

They were respectful at all times, McDonnell added. But the form I was asked to fill out was limited to the traditional gender-binary option of male and female. I hope the police will consider revising the form to be more gender non-conforming-friendly.

She also expressed hope that the incident will be thoroughly investigated, and that similar incidents dont take place.

Im keeping an open mind that police are taking this seriously, that well get a decent outcome, and that some good will come out of this, said McDonnell.

Lt. John Stanford, a police spokesperson, said in an email: [T]he issue will be investigated and addressed, and the appropriate action will be taken to resolve this matter.

Internal Affairs is investigating the incident, and the investigative file will be available to the public once the investigation concludes, police spokesperson Officer Tanya Little added.

As of presstime, Little didnt have a response regarding whether the citizens complaint form will be revised to include more gender options for complainants.
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Fact 3:

During World War II, the theater building, like many of Moscow's other iconic buildings, was disguised as an ordinary house. In this way, the authorities tried to protect the monument against the bombings.

Fact 4:

The Bolshoi Theater is depicted on the 100-ruble-banknote, which was issued in 1997. On one side of the banknote, there is the Bolshoi Theater and on the other, there is a statue of Apollo.

Before the restoration of the Bolshoi Theatre in the 2000s, Apollo's sculpture was depicted with overt male sex organs (in this way he was also pictured on the banknote). In 2014, a number of State Duma deputies decided that the picture contradicted a law Protecting Children from Harmful Information and proposed to remove the naked Apollo from the banknote.

The proposal has not yet been implemented as many experts view a full replacement of the banknote as a groundless measure.

Fact 5:

Each year, the Moscow authorities plant two varieties of tulips in front of the Bolshoi Theater. This is a kind of tradition that was first introduced by a Dutchman named Lefeber. After he first visited the theater in the 1950s, he was so amazed at the performance of the Russian ballet dancers that he delivered the institution two new varieties of tulips, called "Bolshoi Theatre" and "Galina Ulanova" [the name of a famous Russian female ballet dancer].

Fact 6:

Throughout the long history of the theater, more than seven hundred ballet and opera performances have been produced on its stage.

Fact 7:

It might sometimes be difficult to buy a ticket to the Bolshoi Theatre, but modern technology makes it simpler for everyone. The website of the Bolshoi Theatre offers a virtual tour for anyone interested. There, Internet users can take a look at the interior decor of the theater and "visit" it any time.
Chinese tourists not only dominate in terms of spending, but also in terms of the number of trips they make per year. Over the last year alone, Chinese citizens made 120 million trips abroad, what means that every tenth foreign tourist is a Chinese citizen, China National Tourist Office stated, according to the newspaper. This tendency can be explained by the rise of the Chinese middle class, which has emerged over the last few years alongside the country's rapid increase in consumer wealth.

Moreover, Russia and China had signed a unique intergovernmental agreement under which Chinese tourists do not necessarily have to get a visa to visit. Instead, the visa can be waived if they join a tour group and are included in a visa-free list; these are arranged for by travel agencies. The groups must consist of five to fifty people, and the duration of the trip should not exceed 15 days.
Heath emphasized that locals assumed Brussels would be a likely target for an attack prior to the bombings, and they believe the city could be attacked again in the future. The authorities prompted the organizers of the march "Against Fear" scheduled on Sunday to forgo holding the event. It was later cancelled due to a lack of policemen to provide security.

I think they didnt really want to have the risk of responsibility for more deaths or injuries if something happens. So obviously it does look a bit terrible if you are trying to march against fear, but are too afraid to hold that march.

Still, risks that new attacks could hit the city are in place, Heath asserted. And it would take a long time for ordinary Belgians and government to address the problems to resolve key problems linked to terrorism, he concluded.
Geirr Leiros, the mayor of Kafjord, a municipality in Troms Country, recently asked Prime Minister Erna Solberg to shift the border to place the peak of 1,331 meter-high Mt. Haldditcohkka firmly within Finlands borders.

The initiative has won many supporters in Norway, including Bjorn Geirr Harsson, formerly of the Norwegian Mapping Authority, who late last year launched a Facebook campaign to shift the countrys border by 200 meters to bring the peak of Halti mountain into Finnish territory as a gift to its neighbor commemorating the 100th anniversary of its independence.

It would not change the square kilometer size of Norway or Finland, Harsson told The Telegraph. Indeed, Norways size would shrink by only 0.015 square kilometers, but it would make a big difference that the highest point in Finland would be on a mountain peak and not on a hillside  In general I would say that the Finnish people have a high regard for Norway and I would expect most Norwegians to support this.
Furthermore, uncontrolled immigration was cited as Finland's top cause for concern by over 30 percent of Finnish residents; among people under 25, the figure was 40 percent.

Last year, Finland's government had to settle for a bill increasing the capital gains tax and income tax on high earners to help pay for a ten-fold increase in refugees. According to Finland's Migration Board, a total of 32,476 refugees, representing 30 nationalities, were taken in last year.

A slightly larger percentage of women consider illegal immigration a problem than men, with a spree of sex-related crimes, committed by immigrants, cited as a possible reason.

Rahkonen stresses that attitudes towards migration in Finland have changed radically over the last five years; in a previous poll, immigration was only cited as a marginal concern. According to him, problems related to intolerance, hate speech and xenophobia weren't even mentioned in the poll preceding the most recent one, but have risen to be become Finns' seventh largest source of concern.

It is also remarkable that only one percent of the respondents listed Russia as the country's main source of concern, despite some of the Finnish media, as well as high-ranking politicians, repeatedly stirring up anxiety and describing Finland's eastern neighbor as a "possible aggressor."

The survey was conducted from January 21 to February 12, and resulted in a sample of 1,006 responses, yielding a margin of error of 2.5 percent.
The homesick asylum-seekers include 18-year-old Azizullah Ahmadi, who came to Sweden six months ago but now is among other Afghans who want to return to their families in Afghanistan.

The Swedish Migration Board believes that the reason why Ahmadi and his fellow Afghans hope to return to Afghanistan is that their rosy expectations of a better life in Europe have been dispelled by the harshness of reality. Once they arrived in Sweden, they experienced long queues and overcrowded temporary accommodations, with no guarantee of being allowed to stay whatsoever.

Azizullah Ahmadi shares this contention, and adds that the stark contrast between Swedish culture and Afghan society is too great.

"It was easier in Afghanistan. I do not feel at home here in Sweden," said Azizullah Ahmadi in an interview with Swedish Radio.

Mohammad Anwari, who is also planning to return to Afghanistan after five months in Sweden, says that in hindsight it was not worth it.

"The expectations I had, the dangers I experienced on my way here and the money I spent, it was ultimately not worth it," Anwari said.
Largely to due to fierce internal criticism of the police's failure to curb the surge in criminal activity, Eliasson has announced a new hiring campaign, although funds haven't been budgeted for it.

According to Sweden's leading newspaper Dagens Nyheter, 832 policemen decided to quit last year alone, citing the current routine as too demanding. Many believe that the respect formerly associated with police work no longer exists, due to new "dirty work," such as guarding refugee accommodations across the country.

Earlier this year, Anders Karlsson, an inspector from the Gothenburg police force, expressed scathing criticism of Dan Eliasson's efforts as police chef, following the murder of social worker Alexandra Mezher, who had been stabbed in the back as she had tried to break up a fight between two adolescent asylum-seekers at a migrant center in Molndal.

In a polemic article in Expressen, Karlsson argued, among other things, that Eliasson "should know better and apologize."

"You have destroyed so much of the police through your negligence and ignorance. You have long since killed any job satisfaction and pride, which are so important for a functioning police force. You have destroyed properly functioning structures within the police and instead created complete chaos for all," wrote Karlsson.

"I have been anticipating a corresponding parliamentary decision and have already requested the regions to hire more people, even if they do not have the money right now," Eliasson told the Swedish Radio.

Swedish police expect they will need to hire at least 2,000 police officers and 1,300 civilian employees in the coming years in order to cope with their tasks and ensure safety and security.
An imam was notably caught on film preaching to his congregation not to absorb the Danish culture because of the rapid growth of Islam in the country. Another one called on his fellow Muslims to stone unfaithful women in accordance with sharia law. Another one said it was okay to hit their children if they did not worship Allah.

The documentary series has received considerable attention in Denmark, and a proposal to revoke the citizenship of Muslim leaders who teach Muslim extremism was presented by the Danish People's Party (Danske Folkepartiet).

"It should be possible to withdraw citizenship," the DF's integration policy spokesman Martin Henriksen said.

According to him, Denmark should be able to sentence imams and Muslim leaders to jail or fines if they preach doctrines contrary to the laws of Denmark and Danish values.

"There are situations, when you with the constitution in hand can say that something is at odds with the fundamental values of Danish society," Henriksen argues.

The proposal has already received support from the ruling Liberal Party, the Conservative Party, as well as the oppositional Social Democratic Party, which means that the DF's bill will most likely get through the parliament. The recent Islamist bombings in Brussels are believed to have increased support for the bill.
WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  Earlier in the day, Ukraine's chief military prosecutor Anatolii Matios confirmed that Yuri Grabovsky, lawyer of Russian national Alexander Alexandrov who was prosecuted by the Ukrainian authorities, had been shot dead.

Gabrovsky disappeared on March 9 and his body was found buried in the woods in Ukraine's central Cherkasy region close to the town of Zhashkov.

"Obviously it is concerning to us, these reports, but we need to learn more and know more before we are in a position to speak to it," Kirby stated. "We are just seeing them, and its just too soon for us to draw any kind of conclusion here or to make any statement. We need to learn more from the Ukrainian authorities about it."
In a competition with Daesh for recruits and clout across the Middle East, al-Qaeda has sought to distinguish itself from its rival's bloodthirstiness, taking an approach that in jihadi circles would be considered pragmatic. It is building alliances with local players, even old enemies, to seize new territory.

Besides, unlike Daesh, al-Qaeda has no vertically-integrated structure or any particular base anywhere, which makes its destruction almost a mission impossible.

In Syria the al-Nusra Front is fighting on al-Qaedas behalf and poses a serious military and ideological challenge to Daesh.

On the battlefield al-Nusra sticks to pinpoint strikes by suicide bombers, while Daesh prefers large-scale military operations.

Yemen on Fire

Al-Qaeda maintains a very strong foothold in Yemen in the form of al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). It emerged in 2009 after local Islamists and their brethren from Saudi Arabia joined forces against the common enemy.

Even though AQAP has suffered a series of defeats from the Yemeni armed forces, the terrorists are now rebuilding their quasi-state and arming local Sunni tribes to take on the Shiites.

Black Jihadists in Africa

Al-Qaeda is no stranger to the African continent with operations in Sudan, Nigeria, and Somalia, most notably through the militant group Al-Shabaab.

As a growing number of local militant groups sign on to al-Qaeda's ideology in sub-Saharan Africa, the continent is fast becoming the war on terror's newest front line.

Strategic Defense

I think that al-Qaeda is even more dangerous than Daesh. With the world nations attention now focused on flushing out Daesh, al-Qaeda has quietly been spreading its influence across the Middle East and regaining its previous strength, Yuri Barmin, a Moscow-based foreign policy expert, told Lenta.ru.

Andrei Chuprygin, another expert on the Middle East, was equally skeptical about the prospects of defeating the notorious terrorist organization.

The only way you can destroy al-Qaeda is by getting all nations to work as one, but I see no such intention at all, he said.

They are still unable to clinch an agreement on Syria, but fighting al-Qaeda is harder than fighting Daesh because it has no particular territory you can strike at, the expert added.
MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The measures taken by Ankara to protect the Turkish border with Syria from illegal crossings by terrorists are insufficient and only get in the way of anti-terrorist efforts, a Turkish border guard deployed in the Iskenderun district of the southern Turkish Hatay province told Sputnik on Monday.

"The Turkish Armed Forces have sent instructions to their border control units on the border to prevent illegal crossings. However, security measures remain insufficient, because the artificial border between Syria and Turkey hampers efforts in refusing entry to terrorists," the border guard said.

He added that militants, terrorists and fugitives have been successfully finding loopholes to cross the Turkish-Syrian border despite Turkish tanks and military being deployed along the border to monitor the situation.
Maamoun Abdelkarim, Syrias director of antiquities, has inspired hope by reporting that the ravaged sites of the ancient city of Palmyra could be restored.

We had feared that the amphitheater on the main street could have been damaged, along with the temple walls, but, thank God, everything is in perfect state, he told Sputnik.

He added, however, that because the ancient theater had been turned into a prison by the jihadists it would take time to assess the damage.
MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Turkey is trying to retain total control over its borders, but Daesh extremists are still managing to penetrate the country, exploiting the unstable regional situation, residents of the southern Turkish Hatay province and local sources told Sputnik.

"Ankara can prevent the infiltration of jihadi elements across the border, but [Islamic] State continues to transport jihadists, taking advantage of the situation in the region," journalist Ali Demirhan said.

Turkey is fully capable of using its intelligence and security forces in the fight against militants, he noted.
"Russian experts will arrive in the Syrian Arab Republic with all necessary equipment, including demining robots. Moreover, mine detection dogs from the International Mine Action Center will take part in the demining of Palmyra," he added.

According to Kuralenko, a significant part of Palmyra's historical monuments has been destroyed, while the rest has been mined.

The Russian center for Syrian reconciliation at the Hmeymim airbase registered nine violations of the ceasefire regime in three Syrian provinces in the last 24 hours, the commander of the center said Monday.

"A total of nine violations of the ceasefire regime have been registered in the past 24 hours, including four each in the Aleppo and Idlib provinces, and one  in the Latakia province," Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko told reporters.

Local residents have reported that over 50 militants and three trucks with ammunition have arrived in Syria's Aleppo province from Turkey, Russia's Defense Ministry said Monday.

"According to incoming information from the residents of Aleppo, over 50 militants and three trucks with ammunition have arrived in Anadan to reinforce al-Nusra Front units," the ministry said in a statement.
MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Syrian authorities do not object to the creation of a broad international coalition aimed at countering the global terrorist threat, Syria's Ambassador to the UN Bashar Jaafari said Monday.

"We do not oppose a broad international coalition against terrorism being created one day," Lebanese Al Mayadeen television cited Jaafari, who heads the Damascus delegation at the intra-Syrian proximity talks, as saying.

The Syrian envoy added that if countries who were part of such a coalition wanted to carry out operations on the territory of Syria, they were "obliged to coordinate their activities with the country's government."
Moreover, UNESCO intends to conduct a fact finding mission in the liberated Syrian city of Palmyra as soon as possible, but needs the security and political situation in the region to be stabilized first.

UNESCO is planning to do so [send experts to Palmyra to assess the damage] as soon as possible, but we do not have [a] time yet because it depends on [the] security situation and consultations with people responsible for the antiquities department in Syria. We have not been able to have this discussion yet, Boccardi said.

He added that at the moment, the area was still full of explosives and mines, which makes the start of the fact finding mission more complicated.

Boccardi said that Syrias Directorate-General for Antiquities and Museums had already sent its experts to the site but it will be important for UNESCO to be able to conduct an overall assessment of the state of the cultural heritage after one year in the hands of the Islamic State.

He stressed that a UNESCO assessment was necessary to provide international support to the national authorities in restoring the historic city.
Following the joyful event, Sputnik decided to ask some people in the country about their feelings and reaction to the good news.

"The defeat of Daesh in Palmyra reminds me of the Nazi defeat in Stalingrad. The return of Palmyra is like the return of water to the country," Syrian lawyer Giath Fahd told Sputnik.

For his turn, a Syrian named Farah believes that the liberation of Palmyra is more important than any other victory in the country.

"We have seen how Daesh gave some buildings and organizations in Palmyra strange names. It indicates the level of ignorance and mental deficiency of the militants. The liberation of Palmyra is more important than any other liberation," Farah said.

Syrian resident Basil Abu Shash was so happy about the news that he could not even describe his joy. However, he said that the liberation of Palmyra was the first good news for him in a long time.

"In addition to the historical relevance of the city, Palmyra is a strategic point where a new offensive of our army against the enemy forces in the direction of Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa will start," the man stated.
MOSCOW (Sputnik)  On Sunday, the Syrian army, supported by militia and the Russian Aerospace Forces, recaptured the historic city of Palmyra from Daesh. The group, outlawed in many countries including Russia, captured and looted the historic city in May 2015, destroying many historic treasures, such as the ancient temples of Bel and Baalshamin.

According to Lisa Ackerman, while Palmyra is now under the control of the Syrian authorities, it still may be difficult for foreign experts to visit the site as there is still an armed conflict in Syria, so the evaluation of the post-Daesh condition of the ancient city will be carried out by Maamoun Abdulkarim, the Syrian director-general of antiquities.

"Palmyra is extremely well documented so they will be able to assess damage created in recent years. Looting has been a terrible problem during the conflict period and no one can predict if any of the objects stolen will be returned to Syria. The restoration of sites will be more challenging because of illicit trafficking in archaeological objects but many structures can be repaired or reconstructed regardless of looted objects," Ackerman said.
The Russian approach differs from the one the US has adhered to. The Pentagon developed the JDAM, including an integrated inertial guidance system and a tail section with aerodynamic control surfaces. The JDAM kit converts so-called "dumb" bombs into smart munitions. As a result, the number of guided bombs used in US aerial operations has increased in the last 25 years.

Russias approach was to modernize the target-acquiring and navigating systems of tactical bombers. The SVP-24 Gefest target-acquiring system was developed as a result. It makes conventional air bombs more precise because it automatically calculates the flight parameters of the aircraft as well as external conditions. As a result, Russian "dumb" bombs can now hit the target with much higher accuracy.

Game-Changers

The operation marked the first combat use of some of Russian weapons, including the Kh-101 and Kh-555 missiles and the Kalibr ship-based cruise missile.

The Russian forces in Syria have also been backed from the sea, by a naval tactical unit led by the Moskva missile-carrying cruiser and the Caspian Flotilla. On October 7 and then on November 20, warships of the flotilla fired Kalibr missiles from the Caspian Sea and successfully hit the targets from a distance of 2,500 km.

On December 8, Russia conducted its first submerged combat launch of a Kalibr long-range cruise missile. Missiles were launched by the Rostov-on-Don Diesel-electric submarine, successfully hitting all designated targets.

The combat use of those weapons did not change the course of the military campaign. However, they can be considered game-changers in terms of military practice and reputational benefits.

Recognition of the Fullback

The Russian campaign in Syria also marked the first full-fledged combat use of the Su-34 (NATO reporting name Fullback) jet fighters.

The Su-34 is Russias most advanced interdiction aircraft. It was designed as a replacement for Russias fleet of ageing Su-24 Fencer strike aircraft.

The Fullback is provisioned with a formidable air-to-air self-defense capability. It is armed with R-73 dogfighting missiles and R-77 long-range radar-guided air-to-air missiles. The Su-34 has a combat radius of nearly 700 miles on internal fuel but is also designed for aerial refueling.
The scholars working on similar projects in different parts of the Pacific region need to exchange information. The creation of a network laboratory will help them do this, thereby facilitating a comprehensive study of ancient historical processes, Popov said as quoted by the FEFU press service.

They have found that interconnected processes took place in different parts of the Pacific. For example, the movement of population in Southeast Asia and technical discoveries made in central China influenced other people living on a large territory, even if indirectly, including in all parts of the Pacific region. The study of these phenomena can help us understand and forecast possible future developments that move in a spiral line, the scholar added.

Popov said the laboratory would focus on a period between 12 and two thousand years ago, when humanity developed from savages to civilization, communities and productive economies, and when the algorithm of human progress was created.

The FEFU partners from ESPOL and the University of the Philippines have expressed willingness to work in the network laboratory. Negotiations are ongoing with the Japanese universities of Hokkaido and Tohoku, the release says.
WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  Specifically, the Inspector General said they were unable to verify the accuracy of 72 US Army Central Command ACSA orders valued at more than $202 million "due to a lack of supporting documentation."

US commanders "do not have assurance that deployed forces are obtaining the [logistics support, supplies and services] necessary to effectively and efficiently sustain US and coalition forces during contingencies and operations," Assistant Inspector General for Contract Management and Payments Michael Roark said.

In addition, the accuracy and status of 70 US Air Force Central Command ACSA orders, valued at more than $21 million was unknown because of incorrect or incomplete methods used to post transactions, according to the audit.
"The withering defeat underscores [Daesh's] broader struggle to retain territory it has seized in Syria and Iraq," the New York Times reported . "The capture of Palmyra, days after the deadly Belgium bombings for which [Daesh] claimed responsibility, added weight to Mr. Assad's contention that his government is a bulwark against the transnational extremist group."

Daesh captured and partially destroyed Palmyra in May 2015 as part of an effort to prove that the group was as powerful and resilient as in mid-2014 when it shocked the world by seizing Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq, and advancing towards Baghdad. The militants also recognized the ancient city's strategic value. The city's location will now work against the terrorist group.

Damascus-led forces "can use Palmyra as a stepping stone for offensives against [Daesh]-held territory in Syria's eastern desert, where the militants are entrenched in Deir ez-Zor, as well as the self-proclaimed caliphate's de facto capital in Raqqa," the Guardian explained.

Die Zeit noted that the Palmyra victory could help the SAA to "decisively weaken" Daesh.

Michael Stephens of the Royal United Services Institute highlighted the psychological aspect of the victory, calling it "a step in chipping away at the group's power base, both geographically and strategically, as well as debasing the myth that the caliphate's armies are all-conquering and unable to be defeated."
WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  Zeldin warned that the foreign fighter movement "is a very serious challenge," adding there are "many facets" to countering it.

"The horrific terror attack in Paris, France that killed over 100 people was largely carried out by European nationals  many of whom traveled to train and fight in Syria, and then later returned to Europe and were able to move across borders without detection," Zeldin stated. "This is why we need improved border security globally and better information sharing between governments."

Under his bill, Zeldin explained, international border security standards would be enacted to "close security gaps" that currently allow foreign fighters to travel internationally.
Richard Donald Taylor, 88, of Westfield, Indiana, passed away on Friday, March 25 at his home.

Richard served his country as a member of the United States Army with the Occupation Forces in Japan where he chauffeured for the staff of General Douglas MacArthur. He earned his Bachelors degree from Purdue University in 1952. Dick began his training and driving career with his father at their training headquarters at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. He travelled county fair circuits throughout the Midwest and shipped to pari-mutuel racetracks on both coasts.

Dicks gift came in the form of developing young horses, particularly two-year-old trotters. His undeniable patience resulted in considerable success as he developed champions including Dauntless Ann, Matann, Majestic Cliff, Allot, Will Sikes, Gold, Isaac C, Home Court, and Spinning Ranger. His summed up his nine decades of experience by saying: I want to know more about a horse tomorrow than I do today.

Dick served as president and director of the Indiana Trotting & Pacing Horse Association, member of the Indiana Standardbred Board of Regulations, and assistant to the director of Harness Racing at the Indiana State Fair in the early 1970s, as well as working tirelessly in the fight to legalize pari-mutuel wagering in Indiana. He also received the Sagamore of the Wabash from former Governor Robert Orr. In 2014, he was inducted into the Indiana Standardbred Hall of Fame.

He is survived by three children: Jo Barbara Taylor (George Greason), Robert Taylor (Tammera), and Tara Ellen Taylor; sister Sue Ann Smith; four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. In addition to his parents Donald and Mabel Taylor and brother James, he was preceded in death by his wife Margot Marlatt Taylor.

His life will be celebrated on April 10, at Parlay Farm, 16565 Carey Road, Westfield, Indiana, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Harness Horse Youth Foundation, 16575 Carey Road, Westfield, Indiana 46074 or through the website hhyf.org.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Richard Taylor.
World champion and O'Brien Award winner Casimir Camotion was euthanized on Friday, March 25, at a New Jersey clinic. Casimir Camotion was 15 and was just two days shy of 16 years from his foaling date.

A winner of 53 of 269 lifetime starts with earnings of $1,962,412 for Bill Matz and Cary Potkins M&M Harness Racing LLC, Casimir Camotions biggest victory came when he captured the $920,000 Canadian Pacing Derby at Woodbine Racetrack in a career-best 1:48.3. Casimir Camotion equaled that time two years later in a Classic Series leg at Dover Downs, which established a new world record for gelding pacers on a five-eighths mile track.

Bred in Ontario by Murray McConnell's Casimir Stables and Errol Platt, Casimir Camotion (Camluck - Adulation) was trained during his racing career by Stew Firlotte, Pat Lachance and Bruce Saunders. He was retired from racing while still healthy and happy at the age of 13. He became competitive in the life of a pleasure horse, earning multiple ribbons in the 2013 Standardbred Pleasure Horse Show.

Its difficult to keep up a good trot. All he wants to do is really pace, but hes coming along really well, Linda Depinto, who groomed the horse while in the Bruce Saunders stable, told Trot Magazine in a January 2014 interview. She also remarked that she had sent out Christmas cards with her dressed as an elf and Casimir Camotion as Santa Claus.

He loved it, Depinto said. He loves the attention. He had that type of personality as a racehorse. Hes just a great horse all the way around.

Saunders noted that Casimir Camotion had longevity because he didnt race as a two-year-old and also missed a good portion of racing as an eight-year-old with a slab fracture of the knee which required surgery.

Its still a remarkable accomplishment to race at that level for such a long period of time, Saunders said. When we retired him, he was racing well but the speeds in todays world are so much faster than they were in 2010 and 2011. It was very difficult for him to be competitive in condition races. The owners (M and M Harness Racing of New York) would never put him in a claimer where somebody could claim him from them and go through that life of being in the claiming ranks. They wouldnt do that to him because he was too good of a horse. Even in the condition ranks at the Meadowlands in the lowest (level), they were still going extremely fast and he couldnt go as fast as he did in previous years. He was healthy, he was sound, he was very happy. He loved his job, loved being in the barn, loved being around the other horses and loved to train. He was just a marvelous horse, very intelligent. He just couldnt go quite fast enough anymore. The owners decided it was time.

The ultimate warrior on the racetrack, Casimir Camotion was intelligent, sensitive and appreciate of the people around him. He was a most unique horse and will be mourned by those whose presence he graced.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of Casimir Camotion.
Judicial Watch: Obama Administration Withholds Draft Whitewater Indictment of Hillary Clinton

Cites "Privacy" and "Scintilla" of Public Interest in Material about Potential Clinton Crimes



Judicial Watch: Draft Indictment Bears on "Mrs. Clinton's honesty, credibility, and trustworthiness  for the position she currently seeks."



Contact: Jill Farrell, Judicial Watch, 202-646-5172



WASHINGTON, March 28, 2016 /Standard Newswire/ -- Judicial Watch announced today that it is asking a federal court to order the National Archives and Records Administration to release draft criminal indictments of Hillary Clinton. In its motion for summary judgment, the National Archives claimed that "the drafts involve a significant [Clinton] privacy interest that is not outweighed by any public interest." In its March 11 opposition brief, Judicial Watch counters that allegedly "making false statements and withholding evidence from federal investigators bears on Mrs. Clinton's honesty, credibility, and trustworthiness  for the position she currently seeks," rendering the National Archives claim "neither serious nor credible."



These developments stem from an October 20, 2015, Judicial Watch Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit (Judicial Watch v. National Archives and Records Administration (No. 15-cv-01740)) seeking:

All versions of indictments against Hillary Rodham Clinton, including but not limited to, Versions 1, 2, and 3 in box 2250 of the Hickman Ewing Attorney Files, the "HRC/_ Draft Indictment" in box 2256 of the Hickman Ewing Attorney Files, as well as any and all versions written by Deputy Independent Counsel Hickman Ewing, Jr. prior to September of 1996.

The draft indictments relate to allegations that Clinton provided false information and withheld evidence from federal investigators to conceal her involvement with the defunct Madison Guaranty Savings & Loan, the collapse of which lead to multiple criminal convictions. Clinton provided legal representation to Madison Guaranty as an attorney at the Rose Law Firm in Little Rock, Arkansas. Clinton's Rose Law Firm billing records, long sought by prosecutors, were found in the private quarters of the White House shortly after an important statute of limitations had expired.



In its motion for summary judgment, the National Archives confirmed that it has located the Clinton draft indictments, stating, "Included among the records of Mr. Starr and his successors are drafts of a proposed indictment of Hillary Rodham Clinton." It adds, "Box 2250 contains a folder labeled 'Draft Indictment.' Box 2256 contains a folder labeled 'Hillary Rodham Clinton/Webster L. Hubbell Draft Indictment.' Multiple drafts of the proposed indictment of Mrs. Clinton were located by NARA [National Archives and Records Administration] within these folders."



The National Archives claims that Clinton's right to privacy supersedes the public interest concerning the draft indictments. It also claims that the release would violate grand jury secrecy protections and that Mrs. Clinton has "a strong interest in not being associated unwarrantedly with alleged criminal activity."



The National Archives asserts:

While there may be a scintilla of public interest in these documents since Mrs. Clinton is presently a Democratic presidential candidate, that fact alone is not a cognizable public interest under FOIA, as disclosure of the draft indictments would not shed light on what the government is up to.

MORE: www.judicialwatch.org/press-room/press-releases/judicial-watch-obama-administration-withholds-draft-whitewater-indictment-of-hillary-clinton
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China has launched its first cyber security public organisation aimed at better safeguarding national cyber security and guiding internet companies in perform their duties, the media reported.

The CyberSecurity Association of China, launched recently in Beijing, consists of academic institutes, individuals and internet companies including Tencent and popular internet security company Qihu 360, the Global Times reported. The organisation will focus on promoting self-discipline in the industry, accelerating the establishment of industry standards and cyber security studies and participating in international cooperation.

During the launch, Wang Xiujun, deputy director of the China Administration of Cyberspace, the country's internet regulator, said that she hoped the association could emphasize on safeguarding the country's internet security and building up China as an internet power, while attracting more cutting-edge cyber security enterprises and talent to enhance the industry's authority.

In February, China launched its first special fund for cyber security with an initial capital of 300 million yuan ($46 million) to realise the nation's strategic goal of becoming a strong internet power.

IANS
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Microsoft is "deeply sorry" for the racist and sexist Twitter messages generated by the so-called chatbot it launched this week, a company official wrote on Friday, after the artificial intelligence program went on an embarrassing tirade.

The bot, known as Tay, was designed to become "smarter" as more users interacted with it. Instead, it quickly learned to parrot a slew of anti-Semitic and other hateful invective that human Twitter users started feeding the program, forcing Microsoft Corp to shut it down on Thursday.

Following the setback, Microsoft said in a blog post it would revive Tay only if its engineers could find a way to prevent Web users from influencing the chatbot in ways that undermine the company's principles and values.

"We are deeply sorry for the unintended offensive and hurtful tweets from Tay, which do not represent who we are or what we stand for, nor how we designed Tay," wrote Peter Lee, Microsoft's vice president of research.

Microsoft created Tay as an experiment to learn more about how artificial intelligence programs can engage with Web users in casual conversation. The project was designed to interact with and "learn" from the young generation of millennials.

Tay began its short-lived Twitter tenure on Wednesday with a handful of innocuous tweets.

Then its posts took a dark turn.

In one typical example, Tay tweeted: "feminism is cancer," in response to another Twitter user who had posted the same message.

Lee, in the blog post, called Web users' efforts to exert a malicious influence on the chatbot "a coordinated attack by a subset of people."

"Although we had prepared for many types of abuses of the system, we had made a critical oversight for this specific attack," Lee wrote. "As a result, Tay tweeted wildly inappropriate and reprehensible words and images."

Microsoft has enjoyed better success with a chatbot called XiaoIce that the company launched in China in 2014. XiaoIce is used by about 40 million people and is known for "delighting with its stories and conversations," according to Microsoft.

As for Tay? Not so much.

"We will remain steadfast in our efforts to learn from this and other experiences as we work toward contributing to an Internet that represents the best, not the worst, of humanity," Lee wrote.

Reuters
tech2 News Staff

Windows 10 is a free upgrade for most Windows users, but it's still not gained as much traction as Microsoft had hoped, as evidenced by their increasingly desperate measures to convince people to upgrade. In a further bid to improve Microsoft's presence in China, Microsoft has tied up with the Chinese government to release a custom edition of Windows 10 for China.

Gizmodo reports that the Chinese edition of Windows 10 is called the "Windows 10 Specially-provided Edition", we kid you not. The entire list of changes hasn't been revealed yet, but what we do know is that the Specially-provided Edition apparently strips out some games and adds a greater degree of administrator control.

Microsoft has reportedly worked with the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) to incorporate the aforementioned administrator controls as well as a whole suite of security controls for the platform. Microsoft has also reportedly signed a joint-venture agreement with CETC, the latter having a 51 percent stake in the venture, to produce a "safe and controlled" operating system to the government.

All said and done, this special edition of Windows gives administrators greater power and freedom to track a user's activity.

CETC is a state-run technology and defense consortium.
tech2 News Staff

Snapchat has reportedly bought the bitmoji app, Bitstrips, for $100 million, using a mix of cash and stocks.

A report by Fortune points out that Bitstrips was originally introduced in 2007 and is based in Toronto. However, it is not clear at the moment as to what the company plans to do with Bitstrips. Back in 2013, Bitstrips had raised $3 million in funding. Bitstrips can be used to create avatars of yourself. You can choose what your avatar wears and how it looks. Some have successfully managed to make a lot of these avatars look like themselves.

These avatars can then go on to star in comic strips starring you and your friends. There are a bunch of scenes that you can put your character in and Bitstrips keeps adding more over time for users to explore. Bitstrips even has an iOS and Android app for users to make comics on the go.

According to a previous report, Snapchat has also hired developers from major augmented reality groups like Microsofts HoloLens, PTCs (formerly Qualcomms) Vuforia and eye-tracking tech maker Eyefluence to make Snapchats pair of smart glasses. The company showed interest when Google launched Glass. Snapchat later bought Vergence Labs, which produced a pair of glasses equipped with an embedded camera, for $15 million in March 2014.
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Apple has said the US Justice Department's new attempts to unlock an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino shooters without the tech giant's help could eliminate the government's need for its assistance in a similar dispute in New York.

The company's position was laid out in a letter filed on Thursday in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, seeking to delay briefing in the Justice Department's appeal of a ruling that protects Apple from unlocking an iPhone in a drug case.

The letter came after US prosecutors on Monday disclosed that "an outside party" had presented a possible way to open the phone in the San Bernardino investigation, which they said could eliminate the need for an order requiring Apple's help.

In its letter, Apple said if the method being evaluated in the San Bernardino case can also be used in the Brooklyn drug case, "it would eliminate the need for Apple's assistance."

Apple said that could affect the Justice Department's appeal of a Feb. 29 ruling by US Magistrate Judge James Orenstein that he did not have authority to order Apple to disable the security of an iPhone seized during the drug investigation.

"On the other hand, if the DOJ claims that the method will not work on the iPhone here, Apple will seek to test that claim, as well as any claims by the government that other methods cannot be used," Apple said in the letter.

Apple as a result asked US District Judge Margo Brodie, who is presiding over the appeal, to delay the briefing schedule in the case by at least 10 days after the Justice Department files a status report on April 5 in the San Bernardino case.

A spokeswoman for the Justice Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday. Apple in its letter said the Justice Department did not oppose the delay.

The phone in the Brooklyn case belonged to Jun Feng, who has since pleaded guilty to participation in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. The Justice Department sought to unlock Feng's phone to find other conspirators.

Unlike the phone used by Rizwan Farook in San Bernardino, Feng's phone had an older operating system, iOS 7, which is not protected under the same encryption technology.

Reuters
Seoul activists launch anti-Kim leaflets into N Korea

South Korean conservative activists launch large balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets towards North Korea across the Demilitarised zone in Paju.

Reuters, Seoul :South Korean activists yesterday launched tens of thousands of anti-Pyongyang leaflets into North Korea for the second time in three days, amid heightened military tensions on the divided peninsula. The conservative activists, including many North Korean defectors, used gas-filled balloons to float 100,000 leaflets criticising North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un over the heavily militarised border.Some carried slogans reading: "Launch a merciless blow of fire to the nuclear maniac Kim Jong-Un!" or "We want Kim Jong-Un's head!" The same group, called Fighters for Free North Korea, launched 50,000 leaflets on Saturday to mark the anniversary of the sinking of a South Korean warship in 2010.Seoul blamed a North Korean submarine for the sinking, although Pyongyang has always denied any involvement."We plan to launch 10 million leaflets over the next three months, condemning the North's latest atomic test and urging the North to abandon the nuclear programme," the group said on its website. The leafleting exercise has long angered Pyongyang, which has often threatened military retaliation against the activists. In October 2014, North Korean frontier guards attempted to shoot down a set of balloons, sparking a brief exchange of fire across the border.Tensions on the Korean peninsula have been running particularly high since the South kicked off annual joint army drills with the United States this month.The North has issued a series of threats in recent weeks, including warnings of nuclear attacks against Seoul and Washington.Seoul and Washington made the already large-scale joint drills bigger than ever this year in response to the North's nuclear test in January and long-range rocket launch a month later..
Toll rises to 35, four more victims die overnight

BBC :

The toll of those killed in Tuesday's attacks in Brussels climbed to 35 as four people died in the hospital overnight on Sunday, according to the Belgian Health Minister. Tensions boiled over in central Brussels on Sunday evening as riot police were called to disperse hundreds of self-described fascists who rallied around a temporary shrine made to honor the victims of Tuesday's deadly terror attacks. At a Brussels square, police had broken up crowds who officials said were throwing chairs, trash cans and other objects during the protests.


Lightning kills 3 in Comilla, Panchagarh

Three people were killed in separate lightning strikes in Comilla and Panchagarh districts on Monday. In Comilla, Mohammad Babul, 22, son of Abdul Kader Miah of Kamalnagar upazila in Laxmipur district, was killed when a thunderbolt struck him amid rain while lifting sand from the Gomti River at Gouripur Char Mohammadi village in Daudkandi upazila in the afternoon. Besides, Russel, 20, son of Islam Molla of Matupi village in Titash upazila, was killed by the lightning strike while working at his field in the afternoon. In Panchagarh, a stone quarry worker was killed and his wife injured after being struck by a thunderbolt while taking breakfast at their house at Banglabandha in Tentulia upazila in the morning. The deceased was identified as Ramjan Ali, 40, son of Tamijuddin of the village while the injured is Jotsna Banu, 35. -- Comilla, Mar 28 (UNB)
Drying of Padma in summer calls for urgent remedial steps

SCANTY water flow triggering the drying up of the mighty River Padma and its 85 tributaries as the summer is up is causing an adverse impact on environment in the drought-prone south and northern regions. In fact the entire Barind Tract, is facing ecological disasters due to adverse impact of the gradual drying of the river. The situation is worsening and the government should take up the issue seriously with India to remove the bottleneck at Farakka Barrage; which is causing the flow to sharply slow down in the upstream.

The water level is falling rapidly and it has reached the lowest mark during the current dry season. A large number of big shoals have emerged in the river. The river has now the lowest water flow in some narrower channels hampering navigability throughout the region.

Various types of crops especially IRRI-Boro and other seasonal crops are now cultivated on the riverbed which had earlier a vast pool of water in the river. Meanwhile, the ground water table in the vast Barind Tract has also went down with the reduction of water level causing fear that hand-driven tubewells even may not catch water below.

If this trend continues, the process of desertification would further intensify in the region leading to a catastrophe in the agriculture and fishing sectors. The Farakka Barrage which is holding the water back is causing the setback, we have the remedial measures in the Ganges water sharing treaty but it is not working.

Bangladesh and India have always this problem particularly during the summer. The delay in signing the Teesta Water Sharing Agreement is further affecting Bangladesh in the northwest. Particularly, in the dry season India is diverting water from the Ganges to River Hooghly to stop drying of Kolkata Port but this in turn is denying water to Bangladesh drying the riverbeds. The wetlands and mangrove forests are also facing big existential threat.

The Barind Tract region in Bangladesh, which produces the bulk of the Boro rice may end up barren unless farmers switch to low-irrigation or that the water levels rises in the River Padma and its tributary Mohananda. The Farakka water treaty with India has the necessary clauses to provide Bangladesh with due water share but India is showing indifference to ensure its supply in dry season.

The drying of Padma and its tributaries and the Teesta on the northwest is in fact threatening the existence of Bangladesh causing the land barren and affecting farming and fishing. India must understand our problem and we believe that the government of the two countries should open immediate discussion and call the Joint River Commission meeting to sit and address the issue.






Refocusing TB treatment for rural poor



THE menace of Tuberculosis (TB) is growing as infection is becoming more drug-resistant for treatment. Moreover, drugs, which are capable of overcoming this resistance, are yet to be produced, medical practitioners said. As per media reports Tuberculosis caused by infectious Mycobacterium tuberculosis agent generally responds well to anti-TB drugs. In some persons, these first line drugs appear not effective as the causative organism has become resistant to these. So, doctors are worried about curing these patients infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis now the rural poor being affected at large scale.

Globally, an estimated 450,000 people developed MDR-TB and at least 170,000 deaths were caused by the disease were reported in 2012. Bangladesh ranks10th among 27 high MDR-TB burden countries. The emergence of MDR-TB has become a major threat for TB control in Bangladesh. A normal TB patient gets cured completely if he or she takes drug for six months regularly. If the patient is not regular, or does not complete the full course then resistance will foil the treatment. Similarly, if the drugs are below quality, then TB germs become drug-resistant. This is called MDR-TB and it generally cannot be cured with existing drugs.

The patients have to take new drugs for about 22 to 24 months. According to WHO estimates, there are 10,000 MDR-TB patients in Bangladesh and many of them stay out of the treatment facilities for various reasons. Most of them cannot afford to stay in the hospital for 2 years. The most important thing a person can do to prevent the spread of MDR-TB is to take full course of medications. Any negligence or lack of awareness of the patients may lead to revival of the disease after initial sign of recovery.

Fighting tuberculosis especially MDR-TB remains an uphill task as the country faces budget shortage while some 1.5 lakh patients of the air-borne disease remain undetected annually. But the government is saying that lives of 92 percent of patients infected by this disease are saved yearly. Given worrying trends in tuberculosis worldwide, the United Nations has set a target to reduce TB deaths by 95 percent and cut new cases by 90 percent between 2015 and 2035, and to ensure that no family is burdened with catastrophic medical expenses due to TB. If fund shortage continues in Bangladesh, meeting the UN target will be impossible.

Since the challenge of containing MDR-TB is huge, we need to ensure adequate human resources to manage MDR-TB patients. The government must employ Drug Resistance TB Teams at the community level, and bring the treatment at their door steps. TB patients are mainly poor and can hardly afford to meet huge expenses. They must be served with low cost drug at local community level.
PM Sharif demands swift action on terror

Pakistan's PM has urged better coordination between security agencies against terror, a day after a suicide bomb killed more than 70 in Lahore.

At a meeting of security officials, Nawaz Sharif said the nation's resolve to deal with militants was growing.

A number of arrests were made and weapons seized in five raids by security forces, the army said.

Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar said it carried out the attack against Christians celebrating Easter.

At least 300 people were injured, with officials saying they expected the death toll to rise.

The area was more crowded than usual, as members of Lahore's minority Christian community had gathered to celebrate Easter at a funfair in the park. However, most of those who died in the attack were Muslims. At least one funeral, of 11-year-old Christian boy Sahil Pervez, was held on Monday.

The bombing of the amusement park in Lahore on Easter Sunday was the bloodiest on Christians in Pakistan since the 2013 Peshawar church bombing that killed more than 80 people.

But many believe there may be a wider context to the latest attack - 27 March was the deadline set by an alliance of more than 30 religious groups for the provincial government of Punjab to withdraw a new women's rights law they oppose.

And supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, a police guard executed last month for the 2011 killing of a provincial governor who advocated reform of the blasphemy laws, have also launched protests. They brought forward the customary 40th day mourning for Qadri by 13 days to coincide with 27 March and several thousand have now occupied a high-security zone in Islamabad to press demands which include the implementation of Sharia law.

Sunday's carnage in Lahore was claimed by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, an increasingly effective faction of the Pakistani Taliban which has carried out several attacks in the north-western Peshawar valley region during the last few months.

Mr Sharif visited some of the injured in hospital. At the later security meeting, he said defeating terrorism was imperative.

"Our resolve as a nation and as a government is getting stronger and the cowardly enemy is trying for soft targets," he said.

Mr Sharif added that security forces should go after the militants before they were able to strike again.

"I want more proactive coordination between law enforcement and intelligence agencies," he said.

"Provinces should speed up intelligence-based operations against terrorists."

Meanwhile army spokesman Gen Asim Bajwa tweeted that security forces had carried out raids in Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad. A "number of suspect terrorists and facilitators" were arrested and a "huge cache of arms and ammunition" seized, he added.

Meanwhile Facebook has apologised after a programme glitch resulted in users around the world being sent a notification to let friends know they were safe after the attack, meant only for subscribers in the Lahore area.

Facebook had been criticised in the past for deploying the Safety Check application more readily if Westerners are the likely victims. The government of Punjab, of which Lahore is the capital, declared a state of emergency in the city and three days of mourning. Other regions declared one day.

Schools and markets in the province were closed on Monday.

Lahore is one of Pakistan's most liberal and wealthy cities. It is Mr Sharif's political powerbase and has seen relatively few terror attacks in recent years.

A spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said the group wanted to send a message to Mr Sharif that they "have entered Lahore", and threatened further attacks.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar is a breakaway group from Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan. It has carried out several other attacks on Pakistani civilians and security forces in recent months.

The explosion, believed to have been carried out by one suicide bomber, hit the main gate to the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in the early evening, a short distance from the children's playground.

Officials said the device had been packed with ball bearings.

There were scenes of anguish as parents searched for children amid the debris. Pakistan has suffered regular incidents of Taliban-related violence, sectarian strife and criminal gang activity.
Fuel price may drop soon

Staff Reporter :The government is expected to announce cut in domestic prices soon on back of falling international crude oil rates. "The price cut of furnace oil would be announced in a week. A circular would be issued soon to this effect," State Minister for Power and Energy Nasrul Hamid told The New Nation on Monday night.He said, reduction will be made in octane prices in the phase and then a similar downward price adjustment will be made for diesel, petrol and octane in the next phase. "Price reduction for diesel, petrol and octane prices may be announced within a month," he said. The government made changes to the domestic oil prices on January 04, 2013.When asked, Nasrul Hamid said, the price of furnace oil may be reduced by Tk 15-16 per litre. But the range of price cut for per litre diesel, petrol and octane is yet to be finalized.The government kept domestic fuel prices unchanged despite their unabated price fall in global market from June 2014 as part of its plan to allow the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) to recoup its losses. BPC, which had never made profit over the past 14 years of its operations since 2001-2002 fiscal year, bagged a profit worth around Tk 5,268 crore in last fiscal year.
Hoarding Hilsa for Pahela Baishakh

Anisul Islam Noor :

Prices of Hilsa are rising in the city markets ahead Pahela Baishakh, as traders go for stockpiling the delicious fish to gain hefty profit, market insiders said.

This year the Baishakhi festival will be celebrated on April 14. Pahela Baishakh, the first day of Bangla New Year, being celebrated in Bangladesh and some parts of India since the Mughal period. Hilsa is widely consumed on the day as a Bengali tradition.

Traders said Hilsa fishing banned temporarily in many sanctuaries for two months (March-April) by the government also helped raise the price. Hilsa became dearer after its prices doubled just in a week, according to kitchen market traders.

The presence of big and medium-sized Hilsa has declined in the market. Prices of those have risen sharply. A medium-sized Hilsa was selling at Tk 1,000- Tk 1,200, which was Tk 700-Tk 750 per piece earlier. Big-size hilsa was rare and selling at Tk 2,000- Tk 2,400 at kitchen corners like Banalata Kitchen of New market, Hatirpool, Palashi, Shantinagar and Kaptan Bazar Kitchen Markets in the capital.

Suresh Saha, a fish retail seller at Kaptan Bazar kitchen market said that he is selling per kg smaller fish at Tk 900 to Tk 1,000, which was Tk 550-Tk 600 a week ago.

He said prices will be increasing further till Pahela Baishakh celebration as many consumers are in a hurry to store the silver fish in refrigerators to avoid abnormal price during the festival.

Big traders are also storing the Jatiya fish in a large volume to make hefty profit on the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, he said.

Abdur Rahim, a fish trader of Karwan Bazar said the price being increased significantly at wholesales in Mawa, Karwan Bazar and Shawarighat. A maund (40 kg) medium-sized Hilsa was selling between Tk 36,000 and Tk 38,000 there now, which was just Tk 23,500-24,000 earlier at Sadarghat.

Many fish traders are busy storing Hilsa in deep fridges, which would be sold just before Pahela Baishakh to make windfall profit, he said.

Wholeselers, however, said the prices of Hilsa have shot abnormally at the wholesale markets (Arot) in Barisal, Barguna, Cox's Bazar and Patuakhali districts.

Md. Mofij Uddin, a fish trader at Shawarighat in the city, said the price has almost doubled in a week at the arots. He pointed out that the ban on fishing in rivers has also helped increase the price in Arots. The government has banned fishing in Chandpur and Lakshmipur also to protect also the juvenile and brood hilsa.
Maia Deguito seeks respite from probe

inquirer.net :Maia S. Deguito, former Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) branch manager, testifies before the Philippine Senate Blue Ribbon Committee probe into how about $81 million of Bangladesh's stolen funds were transmitted online to four private accounts at a branch of the RCBC Tuesday, March 15, 2016 in Manila, Philippines. Citing health problems, the former branch manager of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC) embroiled in the alleged $81-million money laundering scheme is requesting through a counsel a weeklong respite from the Senate investigation. Lawyer Rene Sagugisag said Maia Santos-Deguito, dismissed manager of RCBC branch on Jupiter Street, Makati City, might not be able to attend the resumption of the hearing of the Senate blue ribbon committee on Tuesday because of "health problems.""She has health problems in a situation full of stress and strain, since last February 9, allegedly of having knowledge that the P4 billion had been moved from banks in New York-scene of the original sin?-to the RCBC Main Office and finally her Jupiter Street branch, where it was remitted to parts of unknown," Saguisag said in a statement that he intends to read before the committee.A copy of the statement was furnished to Senate reporters on Monday. A staff member of Senator Teofisto Guingona III, chairman of the committee, said his office also received the same statement. "Since then, she has been in rapid succession, suspended and now dismissed as branch manager, after grilling by bank officials; forcibly offloaded with her spouse and 10-year-old son from a Japan-bound plane minutes before [takeoff], her picture splashed on the front pages of every paper; summoned to testify here, and threatened with contempt; interrogated by 10 hardworking senators for two hours in executive session; charged and subjected to death threats, and now jobless, piled and dumped on," Saguisag added. Deguito, who was at the center of the controversy, had already appeared in the first two hearings conducted by the committee. Saguisag said the former branch manager "begs on bended knees for a respite until after April 4." "After which, she commits dutifully to participate in further proceedings, expecting to regain her health and balance by then," the lawyer said.Besides, Saguisag said they are wondering what the committee still expects to hear from Deguito "without the benefit of warning on her right not to speak and sans negotiations for limited or qualified immunity as he arguably checked the Bill of Rights at the door." "In my limited experience in the US Senate in 1969-1970 while training in a Washington DC firm, Senate staff would contact the resource person on the central point and outer limits of the inquiry but these may be the subject of the wisdom of a new day," he said.During the committee's last hearing on March 17, Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile threatened to cite Deguito in contempt for refusing to answer his questions.The committee later decided to just hold an executive session to hear Deguito's testimony.
More problems ahead

Sagar Biswas :

Police on Monday recovered about 2,000 sealed ballot papers, which were looted during first phase Union Parishad [UP] elections, from the roadside at Barobhag village under Latifabad Union of sadar upzila in Kishoreganj district.

Ashraful Alam, who was Returning Officer of the UP on the day, said a gang of miscreants led by some 'member' candidates looted 2,052 sealed ballot papers attacking the on-duty officials. "The Election Commission [EC] halted the result of that centre and filed a case with concerned police station accusing 25 persons, including three candidates," he said.

When contacted, Sub Inspector Sanjoy Banik, Investigating Officer of the case, said that nobody was arrested in connection with the ballot looting. "The ballot papers were found abandoned in a sack at the roadside. Those were used in AU Senior Madrasa centre," he also said.

In this backdrop, the overall law and order situation is apprehended to deteriorate further in the next phases of UP elections due to denial approach of EC to shoulder responsibility of massive violence and irregularities in the first phase.

The second phase of election is going to be held in 643 unions under 47 districts on Thursday. And in several areas, the rival candidates are reportedly flexing muscles to get hold of the polling centres. There are also reports of attack on the houses and business establishments of rival candidates and members of minority community.

The situation is also highly tensed in different areas. The candidates of ruling Awami League have failed to field 'chairman' candidates in 19 UPs out of 49 of 10 upazilas in Rangamati district fearing fatal consequence being threatened by some local armed cadre-based political parties.

The scenario is the same for BNP where it also could not nominate its candidates in 29 UPs even on the last date of submitting nomination papers [Sunday] for the third face election scheduled to be held on April 23.

Meanwhile, being summoned by EC, the Superintendent of Police in Satkhira and five Officers-in-Charge [OCs] of concerned police stations will appear before the Commission on Wednesday to submit their statements over the 'ballot stuffing' in 11 centres, official sources said.

Earlier, the EC had suspended all policemen; those were on-duty at 11 centres, on charge of stuffing ballot with fake seals at 14 centres in the earlier night of the election. The EC also halted voting in three centres of Kumira union under Tala upazila, four centres of Alipur union at Sadar upazila, three centres of Kaikhali union at Shyamnagar upazila, two centres of Kushdanga union at Kalaroa upazila and one centre from each Keralkata union and Parulia union of Bedhata upazila, according to the officials.

Deputy Secretary of EC [election conducting cell] Shamsul Alam said: "Among 14 most disturbed centres in Satkhira, the law enforcers tried to resist anomalies only in three centres. But no action was taken in the rest eleven centres. So, the EC has taken decision to file cases and suspend the responsible policemen."

To make the second phase successful, the EC, however, has imposed ban on plying motorcycles in the electoral areas from Monday to Thursday midnight for holding second phase of election. Besides, baby-taxi, auto-rickshaw, easy-bike, taxicab, microbus, jeep, pickup, car, bus, truck, tempo and some under vehicles have been brought under restriction.

Election Commissioner Mohammad Shahnewaz said: "We have imposed restriction on plying of motorcycles and other vehicles like the previous elections. We have already asked the Road Transport and Bridges Ministry to take necessary steps in this regard."

The third phase of UP elections will be held April 23, fourth phase on May 7, fifth phase on May 28 and sixth phase on June 4, as per schedule announced by EC.

But raising finger towards EC, the Sushasoner Jonno Nagorik [SUJAN], a civil society platform working for good governance, on Monday further alleged that the first phase of UP election was 'perverted'.

"We think, the EC must step aside from holding second phase of UP election, if it [EC] doesn't take responsibility of irregularities and violence," Badiul Alam Mazumdar, Secretary of SUJAN, told a press conference at Dhaka Reporters' Unity yesterday.
Government embarrassed

Cabinet skips discussion on 2 Ministers' resignation

SM Mizanur Rahman : The regular weekly Cabinet meeting on Monday skipped discussion on the resignation issue of the two ministers, Food Minister Qamrul Islam and Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq, said Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Barrister Anisul Haque. "It is a matter of morality whether they will stay in power or quit," the Law Minister told journalists after emerging from the regular weekly Cabinet meeting at the Secretariat on Monday.The two members, who were found guilty of passing contemptuous comments against the Chief Justice, attended the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.Anisul Haque, however, said the two ministers, who were fined by the country's apex court have neither breached their oath nor violated the Constitution with their comments.Echoing the same, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader also told reporters that there was no discussion regarding the resignation of the two ministers in the Cabinet meeting.However, they said that the high commands of the government were greatly disturbed and embarrassed at the activities of the two ministers."It is their personal matter whether the two ministers, who were found guilty of passing contemptuous comments against the Chief Justice, will resign or not," replying to a query he told journalists. Obaidul Quader said the two ministers are talking too much on various issues since they have been made members of the Cabinet. On Sunday, the Supreme Court convicted Qamrul Islam and AKM Mozammel Huq and fined them Tk 50,000 each for their controversial comments about Chief Justice SK Sinha. The ministers will have to suffer seven days' jail in default to pay the fine, the order said.Later on the same day, Attorney General Mahbubey Alam said the Cabinet would take a decision about the fate of two ministers who faced contempt of court charges as it is a matter of morality. The court also ordered giving the fine money to Islamia Eye Hospital and Liver Foundation of Bangladesh.On March 15, the SC ordered the two ministers to appear before it on March 20.The day earlier on March 14, ministers Qamrul Islam and Mozammel Huq offered unconditional apology to the court for their remarks. They begged the pardon in separate applications submitted to the SC through their lawyers.On March 8, the Supreme Court summoned the two ministers to appear before it on March 15 for their reactions to remarks of Chief Justice SK Sinha about prosecution as regards the trial of Jamaat leader Mir Quasem Ali in a war crimes case.Meanwhile, Qamrul Islam and AKM Mozammel Huq told journalists that they would take decision regarding their resignation after getting the full verdict of the apex court.Maintaining all legal proceeding of the court they will go for further step, they said after emerging from the Cabinet meeting. "Maintaining all legal proceeding of the court, I shall take necessary steps through lawyers," Qamrul Islam said.AKM Mozammel Huq said he will do everything abiding by the law.
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.
Country

United States of America US Virgin Islands United States Minor Outlying Islands Canada Mexico, United Mexican States Bahamas, Commonwealth of the Cuba, Republic of Dominican Republic Haiti, Republic of Jamaica Afghanistan Albania, People's Socialist Republic of Algeria, People's Democratic Republic of American Samoa Andorra, Principality of Angola, Republic of Anguilla Antarctica (the territory South of 60 deg S) Antigua and Barbuda Argentina, Argentine Republic Armenia Aruba Australia, Commonwealth of Austria, Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Bahrain, Kingdom of Bangladesh, People's Republic of Barbados Belarus Belgium, Kingdom of Belize Benin, People's Republic of Bermuda Bhutan, Kingdom of Bolivia, Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana, Republic of Bouvet Island (Bouvetoya) Brazil, Federative Republic of British Indian Ocean Territory (Chagos Archipelago) British Virgin Islands Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria, People's Republic of Burkina Faso Burundi, Republic of Cambodia, Kingdom of Cameroon, United Republic of Cape Verde, Republic of Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad, Republic of Chile, Republic of China, People's Republic of Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia, Republic of Comoros, Union of the Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, People's Republic of Cook Islands Costa Rica, Republic of Cote D'Ivoire, Ivory Coast, Republic of the Cyprus, Republic of Czech Republic Denmark, Kingdom of Djibouti, Republic of Dominica, Commonwealth of Ecuador, Republic of Egypt, Arab Republic of El Salvador, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faeroe Islands Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Fiji, Republic of the Fiji Islands Finland, Republic of France, French Republic French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon, Gabonese Republic Gambia, Republic of the Georgia Germany Ghana, Republic of Gibraltar Greece, Hellenic Republic Greenland Grenada Guadaloupe Guam Guatemala, Republic of Guinea, Revolutionary People's Rep'c of Guinea-Bissau, Republic of Guyana, Republic of Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras, Republic of Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China Hrvatska (Croatia) Hungary, Hungarian People's Republic Iceland, Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Republic of Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Republic of Ireland Israel, State of Italy, Italian Republic Japan Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom of Kazakhstan, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Kiribati, Republic of Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, State of Kyrgyz Republic Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon, Lebanese Republic Lesotho, Kingdom of Liberia, Republic of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya Liechtenstein, Principality of Lithuania Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Macao, Special Administrative Region of China Macedonia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Republic of Malawi, Republic of Malaysia Maldives, Republic of Mali, Republic of Malta, Republic of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania, Islamic Republic of Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Principality of Mongolia, Mongolian People's Republic Montserrat Morocco, Kingdom of Mozambique, People's Republic of Myanmar Namibia Nauru, Republic of Nepal, Kingdom of Netherlands Antilles Netherlands, Kingdom of the New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua, Republic of Niger, Republic of the Nigeria, Federal Republic of Niue, Republic of Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway, Kingdom of Oman, Sultanate of Pakistan, Islamic Republic of Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama, Republic of Papua New Guinea Paraguay, Republic of Peru, Republic of Philippines, Republic of the Pitcairn Island Poland, Polish People's Republic Portugal, Portuguese Republic Puerto Rico Qatar, State of Reunion Romania, Socialist Republic of Russian Federation Rwanda, Rwandese Republic Samoa, Independent State of San Marino, Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Senegal, Republic of Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Singapore, Republic of Slovakia (Slovak Republic) Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia, Somali Republic South Africa, Republic of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain, Spanish State Sri Lanka, Democratic Socialist Republic of St. Helena St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and the Grenadines Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Suriname, Republic of Svalbard & Jan Mayen Islands Swaziland, Kingdom of Sweden, Kingdom of Switzerland, Swiss Confederation Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan, Province of China Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Kingdom of Timor-Leste, Democratic Republic of Togo, Togolese Republic Tokelau (Tokelau Islands) Tonga, Kingdom of Trinidad and Tobago, Republic of Tunisia, Republic of Turkey, Republic of Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda, Republic of Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe
The sextoy market is growing quite rapidly in India right now.

Although it is not a big trend, it is a hot topic on the internet as it is secretly expanding its market.

In this article, we will focus on sextoy and introduce recommended sextoy for Indian beginners of sextoy by gender.

India, the birthplace of the Kama Sutra, is very strict about sex.

Also, premarital sex is basically not allowed. Therefore, there are many people who are sexually restricted.

But what happens when you continue to be sexually restricted?

Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner.

If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems.

I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now.

I want more variation in masturbation

I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own.

If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end.

What is sex toys for Indian?

Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation.

It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms.

They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable.

Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner.

The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner.

It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past.

In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping.

Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order.

In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing.

Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome.

Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own.

But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance.

More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around.

Sextoy situation in India

Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years.

In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India.

Mumbai

Kolkata

Bangalore

Delhi

Chennai

Hyderabad

These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India.

In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well.

If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too.

If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it.

What are Sextoys for beginner?

Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms.

Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy.

I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion.

I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy.

If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma.

Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it.

Advantages of using sextoy for Indians

There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians

You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways.

Can have stimulating sex

Can develop new sexual zones

If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern.

However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways.

You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation.

Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever.

There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure.

This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it.

When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems.

It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms).

For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles

[Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou...

Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India.

Sextoy for beginner men in India

So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners.

For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men!

The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men

Masturbator

Cock rings

Love Doll

Sex Lubricants

Toys for the prostate

Lets check each one in detail.

Masturbator

The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products.

It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands.

Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands.

They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.)

Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much.

Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! !

Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa   SEXToys India PR  (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018

Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood.

If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here

Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ...

[For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien...

Cock Ring

A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis.

It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow.

It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber.

In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection.

Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction.

It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it.

Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time.

Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function.

Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy.

You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect.

[Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat...

Love Doll

Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex.

There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women.

Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price.

The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true.

You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste.

There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice.

You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls.

If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here

Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to...

Sex lubricants

Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules.

It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution.

Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse.

There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent.

Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent.

If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here.

What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many...

Toys for the Prostate

Another sextoy for men is prostate toys.

The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line.

Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men.

Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm.

You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus.

By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms.

Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.)

The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation.

Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure.

sextoy for beinner women in India

The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy.

The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy.

Vibrator.

Dildo

Electric Masserger

Lets check out what each one is in detail.

If you want to check out womens toys, click here.

[BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm...

Vibrators

A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator.

Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy.

It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy.

Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women.

For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators.

Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex.

Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself.

This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual.

Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men.

When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons.

Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most...

Dildo

A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis.

It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass.

A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it.

They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well.

It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device.

A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo.

Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands.

For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis.

This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one.

To learn more about dildo, please click here.

What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th...

Electric Masserger

A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores.

It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low.

Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels.

Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation.

It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure.

For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm.

It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out.

If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager?

To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here.

What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th...

How to choose a sextoy for Indian

Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one.

Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points:  Does the size fit you (the partner)?

Does the size fit you (your partner)?

Is the environment able to produce sound without problems?

Price range

First of all, the choice of size is quite important.

Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women.

For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage.

Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems.

Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise.

If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level.

Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it.

Finally, there is the price range.

The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest.

Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy.

Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy?

I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance.

For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics.

If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out.

How to buy sextoys in India

The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping.

For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below.

Sextoy is one of them.

Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping.

SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India.

They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry.

Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card.

To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy.

ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal.

Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on.

Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture.

Cautions for Indians using sextoy

When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind

Keep sex toys clean

Watch out for electrical leakage

Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy

As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone.

Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there.

It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case.

In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness.

Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful.

If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it.

You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly.

Summary

What did you think?

In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India.

The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future.

As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values.

However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health.

If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try?

Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women.

I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it.
SPRINGFIELD  A man who was arrested for stealing two DVDs, some clothing and a 20-ounce bottle of Dr. Pepper from a Bloomington Walmart in 2012 shouldn't have been convicted of felony burglary, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled this week.

Following a bench trial before McLean County Circuit Judge John Costigan in January 2013, Jesse Bradford was convicted of burglary, a Class 2 felony, and sentenced him to three years in prison. But the states high court ruled that no rational trier of fact could have found beyond a reasonable doubt that Bradford, then 27, was guilty of burglary rather than misdemeanor retail theft.

Bradford walked into Walmart on July 19, 2012, picked up two DVDs near the cash register and exchanged them for a store gift card, according to court documents. Afterward, he remained in the store, swiping a hat and a pair of shoes and using the gift card to pay for a friends purchase.

At trial, McLean County prosecutors argued that Bradfords actions amounted to burglary because he remained within a store without authority with the intent of stealing, according to the Supreme Court opinion.

Bradford appealed his conviction, and in November 2014 the 4th District Appellate Court upheld the trial courts ruling.

But in a unanimous decision issued Thursday, the Supreme Court overturned the conviction, ruling that the appellate court interpreted the states burglary law too broadly.

The courts vague conclusion that a defendant who develops an intent to steal after his entry into a public building may be found guilty of burglary by unlawfully remaining  encompasses nearly all cases of retail theft, effectively negating the retail theft statute, Justice Anne Burke writes in the courts opinion.

Had Bradford remained in the store after being asked to leave, gone into an area closed to the public, or hid inside and waited for the store to close, his actions would have amounted to burglary, according to the court.

Conversely, Burke writes, an individual who enters a building lawfully, shoplifts merchandise within areas which are open to the public, then leaves during business hours, is guilty of ordinary retail theft.

McLean County States Attorney Jason Chambers said the decision isnt going to affect us from a practical standpoint very much.

Chambers was elected in November 2012 and took office the month before Bradfords trial. His office has since stopped using the burglary by remaining charge in virtually all cases involving retailers.

It didnt seem like the intent  of that statute in my opinion, Chambers said.

William Schroeder, a criminal law professor at Southern Illinois University, said he hopes decisions like this one prompt prosecutors to be more judicious in charging people with felonies.

There is a tendency in this state  to seemingly make everything a felony, Schroeder said, noting that a felony conviction can be disastrous to someones economic future.

Bradford, however, has other felonies on his record, including a retail theft conviction for stealing a pair of glasses from All About Eyes in March 2012 and a 2010 conviction for possession of stolen vehicle.

He was sentenced to 4 1/2 years in the 2010 case. In the other case, he was sentenced to two years at the same time as his conviction on the charges involved in the Supreme Court decision.

He served nearly two years in the 2012 cases and was released on parole in February 2015.
The Salvation Army, which has been serving the area since 1937, says its finding it difficult to provide the rent and utility assistance it once did.

We receive about 83 phone calls a day asking for assistance and as soon as funding comes in, it pretty much goes right back out, Salvation Army Capt. Wanda Long said.

She added, Its never a cookie cutter day. We handle needs on an individual basis.

The Salvation Army provides low-income individuals and families with services, including emergency food support, utility payment assistance, lodging, clothing, furniture and rental assistance.

This past year, 4,807 individuals received food, 25,385 items were distributed, 98 families were saved from utility crisis and eviction and 24 families were helped with baby items and school items.

The Salvation Army operates an emergency food pantry at its social service office on 813 Nottingham St. in Orangeburg, Long said. Donations of food and dry goods to the food pantry are welcome.

Long said 305 individuals have received 2,528 items of clothing through the social service office over the past six months, with 93 households receiving 1,140 home good items.

The organization is also seeing a growing number of homeless individuals and families who are housed in local hotels until shelter is found for them. Eighteen homeless clients have been served over the past six months.

We average about one to two a week coming in. They need food, so were able to feed them. We have several people that have donated the drawstring backpacks that are used to store food and personal hygiene items in, Long said.

Donations of pop-top canned food, baby formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, socks and underwear for adults and children are needed to help the organization serve the homeless.

The organization also operates a family thrift store, which provides clothes, furniture and household items for sale, with casual and work clothes and business attire for men and women being among its greatest needs, Long said.

We sell the items within the community and that money generates right back into the community to help pay for utility, rent and other needs, Long said. We are down a little bit in donations as well as sales. Thrift stores are popping up everywhere, so we are just trying to bide the time.

The organization also sends children and seniors to weeklong retreats at Camp Walter Johnson in Denton, North Carolina. Swimming, boating, fishing, archery and canoeing are among the camp activities that individuals can participate in.

Our cost for the children to go to camp is $200 for the week. The cost for the senior camp is $100. We try to support them as much as possible so that there is little to no cost for the campers, Long said.

The Salvation Army also works in conjunction with government and nonprofit agencies to provide food, personal necessities and shelter to disaster victims and first responders.

Fires happen. Fires dont discriminate, so at that point, people need you. They need somebody there thats going to be compassionate enough to say, Were here. What can we do to help? Thats what we do, Long said.

During Christmas, the organization is able to provide basic needs for clients, meals for families and toys for children through initiatives such as its Stuff A Bus, Stuff A Stocking and Angel Tree projects, along with family adoptions and local food drives.

Long said the organization provided 918 children with 4,748 toys through the services provided at Christmas. Also, 621 angels were adopted, 525 stockings were collected, 108 seniors received food boxes and 135 meals were provided.

The one thing that most people dont realize is that we are a church first and foremost, but our goal is to help those that are in need. Its not necessarily the ones that have been in need for the longest amount of time, but sometimes people lose jobs, theres been a death in the family or sickness happens and theres a need at that point, Long said. Were able to address those needs as they come up on an individual basis for people.

Long and her husband, Capt. Robert Long, have been commanders of the local Salvation Army since taking the helm in June 2012 after moving from Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

We love this community, and I want to be in this community. I want not only to be visible for people to see that the Army is here, but to see what we can do to help those in the community that need us, she said.

To donate to or volunteer with the Salvation Army, call 803-534-6805 or mail: The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 958, Orangeburg, SC 29116.
The cost of college is almost certainly too high, and a consequence of that is alarming student debt. Does that mean our goal should be to make college debt free? Depends how you do it.

First, lets be clear: While the cost of college is probably much higher than it should be, and millions of people enter but never finish, a degree still tends to pay off handsomely, with the average graduate making far more over her lifetime  some estimate $1 million more  than someone who ended their education after high school. Average debt for grads who took out loans  about $35,000  is therefore a good investment in oneself, and even the lowest-income Americans would be welcome customers for lenders as long as they were demonstrably college ready and planned to major in a marketable subject.

This gets us to why debt-free college may not be a great idea. It would be terrific if college were debt free because covering the actual costs of ones education was manageable without debt. But if higher education was made debt free because we were forcing taxpayers  people who do not reap the $1 million reward  to directly subsidize it, that would be bad.

A huge reason the price of college is so high right now is government help. The federal government has subsidized students for decades, allowing colleges to raise their prices at rates far in excess of household income and even healthcare, and encouraging students to demand ever-greater luxuries. Use other peoples money and your incentives to demand efficiency wither.

In just the last year studies from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the National Bureau of Economic Research have found that very large parts of college prices are attributable to federal aid expansions, and other NBER research has suggested that all but the most academically oriented students put heavy value on amenities such as student activities, sports and dormitories.

So why not get states and the federal government to spend directly on colleges in exchange for schools charging less, or not at all? To different extents, that is what Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders have called for.

But subsidizing schools directly comes with even bigger problems than subsidizing students. While American higher education is wasteful and expensive, it is also the most vibrant, responsive higher education system in the world. Seventeen American universities are in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings top-25. None are from Scandinavia, which Sen. Sanders holds up as the ideal.

Similarly, the Center for World University Rankings puts 18 American institutions in the top 25, while the highest-ranked Scandinavian school  Swedens Karolinska Institute  comes in at 71.

The United States is also by far the most popular destination for people studying outside their home countries. No wonder the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research in Australia has ranked the American higher education system the best in world.

Why is U.S. higher education so good relative to the rest of the world? Because almost every other country runs higher education on the government provides, you go free model. The result is often poorly maintained infrastructure, big classes, hard to access professors and languishing students.

Theres also rationing. In Sweden, universities get 2.5 applications for every one available slot. Germany is infamous for tracking students into or out of higher education by a test called the abitur. In France, high school principals, essentially, decide whether a student gets to be on a college track, and the weeklong baccalaureate exam determines if they can go to a university.

The solution to these problems  our spiraling costs, just about everyone elses moribund systems  is not more government money, but less. It is to phase out aid and have people pay with their own funds, or money they get voluntarily from others. Then institutions would be unable to raise their prices with impunity, students would demand fewer expensive frills, while the system would retain the freedom essential to innovate and respond to ever-changing student needs.

n Neal McCluskey is the director of the Cato Institutes Center for Educational Freedom. He wrote this for InsideSources.com
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YEREVAN, MARCH 28, ARMENPRESS. Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan received delegation of the All-Armenian National Movement on March 27 led by the head of the party's board Ararat Zourabyan.

As Armenpress was informed from the press service of Artstakh Presidents Office, Bako Sahakyan noted the importance of regular discussions on various issues with the Armenian political forces, underlining their expedience for the two Armenian republics.
/By Azernews/

By Aynur Karimova

The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline, a part of the Azerbaijan-initiated giant Southern Gas Corridor, is not just a major investment for Greece, but also a significant geopolitical tool for this country.

Such a remark was made by TAP's country Manager for Greece, Rikard Skoufias at an international conference titled "Energy market: unlocking Greeces economic potential" in Athens on March 22, Natural Gas Europe reported.

He informed the conference participants that there were no clouds on the horizon for the project and that cooperation with Athens is smooth and steady in all aspects.

"Already 150 Greek companies have been selected as prospective suppliers for works on the pipeline," he added.

William Silkworth, an official of the U.S. Department of State, strongly backed TAP and IGB, while was equally strident in his criticism of some other pipeline projects.

Silkworth emphasized that diversification is a key aspect of the U.S. foreign policy and lies also in the core interests of the European Union.

He further added that the Nord Stream 2 and Turkish Stream are not projects that could assure energy security for the EU.

Silkworth believes that such projects are more of an attempt by the Russian side to keep a grip of its dominance in the EU markets.

Michalis Verroiopoulos, the Secretary General for Energy and Mineral Resources for the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy also named diversification as a priority. He stressed how important it was for Greece to open up its market and to link it to a variety of energy projects in the wider region.

He mentioned that major initiatives will be set up regarding the TAP and the IGB projects; the proposed LNG terminal in the city of Alexandroupolis; and the EuroAsia Interconnector electricity high voltage line, which will link the electrical systems of Israel, Cyprus and Greece.

Greece, a Southern European nation with economic difficulties, has repeatedly expressed a desire to get Azerbaijani gas as soon as possible and assured to have necessary infrastructure for supply of Caspian blue fuel via the multi-billion Southern Gas Corridor.

Officials believe that the smooth implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project is very important for the development of energy cooperation between Greece and Azerbaijan.

The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages the transportation of the gas to be extracted from the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani section 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 join TAP, 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.
/By Azernews/

By Fatma Babayeva

The World Bank (WB) is keen to provide investments to solve ecological problems of the lakes in Absheron Peninsula of Azerbaijan.

The bank plans to finance the Absheron Lakes Cleanup and Rehabilitation project, which covers four lakes located in the southwestern part of Baku: Khojasan, Lokhbatan, Gu, and Girmizi.

The WB Board of Directors will discuss the project on July 18, 2017, Trend reports.

The project with the estimated cost of $100 million will be financed by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, a member of WB group, ($85 million) and Azerbaijans government ($15 million).

The project to be implemented by the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan will contribute to the ecosystem of the lakes and help to reduce pollution in the Absheron Peninsula.

The Absheron Peninsula hosts 70 percent of the country's industrial potential, which is regarded as major polluter in the area.

There are over 200 lakes in the peninsula with an overall area of 3,325 hectares. Each year, 41.5 million cubic meters of waste water are discharged into these lakes. Pollution of these lakes has many negative environmental impacts on the attached areas such as soil degradation, salinization, emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere as a result of evaporation process and lands left underwater due to risen level of lakes.

General water, sanitation and flood protection sector will make up 65 percent of the mentioned project budget, solid waste management 20%, wastewater treatment and disposal 15 percent.

The government of Azerbaijan is committed to scaling up the cleanup and revitalization of the Absheron lakes and the surrounding area, the WB said.

Both the government and industry are paying increased attention to the improvement of environmental quality in urban areas as a way to sustain investments and development. The residential expansion of the Baku area will occur to the west and to the east, where polluted lakes and lands are located, according to the WB.

Urban lakes are a key feature of the landscape that could, if properly cleaned up, significantly contribute to the improvement in the quality of life in the Greater Baku area. Land redevelopment, if managed appropriately, will also bring development and employment opportunities and share of prosperity to the local population, the bank believes.

"The government of Azerbaijan undertook a strategic effort to clean up a part of the Boyuk Shor Lake and has already started the lakes second phase cleanup, said the WB.

Regulating authorities also recognize that addressing such issues is highly complex, and requires a systemic approach and high level of technical expertise as well as significant financial resources, the bank assures.

Technical assistance on the project is estimated at $3 million. $95 million will be spent on cleanup and ecological rehabilitation of the lakes that includes, in particular, the work on lakes and in rivers in Khojasan and Lokbatan.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's visit to Washington is of particular importance, said in an interview with ANS TV channel Novruz Mammadov, deputy head of Azerbaijani presidential administration, chief of the administrations foreign relations department.



According to the official, during the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, President Ilham Aliyev will talk about the work carried out in Azerbaijan on nuclear safety and on the challenges that are still to be implemented.



"On the other hand, the importance of this summit is that different meetings, contacts and discussions will be held within it. As a result of such meetings, important steps regarding bilateral relations are made," Mammadov said.



Given all this, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's visit to Washington is of particular importance, he said.
/By Azernews/

By Amina Nazarli

Azerbaijans Interior Ministry still investigates the case of Belarusian citizen, who tried to enter the territory of Baku Metro through a ventilation system pipe on March 25.

Spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Police Colonel Sadig Gozalov stated that investigation on the fact is underway. He noted that relevant actions on the mentioned person have been carried out in accordance with the requirements of the agreement on corporation signed between the ministries of the two countries.

Police employees detained Belarusian citizen Ilyevskiy Sergei Timofeevich, who attempted to breach the ventilation system and enter Baku Metro around 1:30am on March 25.

The police found gloves, forehead flashlights and two ropes of different lengths on scene, as well 10 pieces of paint tube, 12 tubes of color outbursts headline, "Nikon" camera and "Sony" video camera were seized. Police also found on him photographs of Tbilisi and Yerevan subway stations, schemes of those stations and those of Baku Metro, a cell phone, and money.

Gozalov also expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement agencies of Belarus for promptly responding surveys of the Azerbaijani side on Ilyevskiy and close participation in this investigation.

The preliminary investigation revealed that, Ilyevskiy travelled to Armenia and Georgia last week. On March 18, the Belarusian citizen traveled from Belarus to Georgia and later from Georgia to Armenia. He returned to Georgia on March 23 and then came to Azerbaijan.

Sergei said he wanted to enter the subway tunnel by cutting the iron bars at the ventilation tube and draw graffiti-style pictures on the walls of Baku Metro.
/By Azernews/

By Nazrin Gadimova

Despite international calls to abstain from aggravating the situation on the Armenia-Azerbaijan contact line, Armenia has intensified the armistice breaches over the week.

That showed the true intention of Yerevan, which continued breaking ceasefire during Novruz celebrations in Azerbaijan. Although the OSCE urged the parties to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to strictly observe the ceasefire on the eve of Novruz and Easter.

Armenia, which is an initiator of the long lasting Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has breached ceasefire over 1,200 times on March 19-28.

Furthermore, the Armenian Armed Forces violated the state border of Azerbaijan on the territory of Gazakh region on March 27 attempting to enter the country's territory.

The Azerbaijani troops could prevent the offensive attempt, making the enemy to retreat suffering losses.

The Azerbaijani army lost three servicemen during the operations.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry stated that these provocations counteracted the calls.

Spokesman for the Ministry Hikmet Hajiyev said that Armenias Defense Ministry responded this call with provocative attacks.

Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, personal representative of the country chairing the OSCE (Germany) and Minsk Group co-chairs made statements on March 18 and March 21 calling to adhere to the ceasefire during Novruz and Easter holidays, Hajiyev said.

He added that in accordance with the spirit of the holidays, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry immediately responded positively to Kasprzyks call.

However, Armenia continued the activities aimed at aggravating the situation on the contact line of Azerbaijani and Armenian armies and the Armenian-Azerbaijani border by intensively violating the ceasefire with heavy weapons, Hajiyev added.

Hajiyev said this once again proves that Armenias true purpose is to deliberately aggravate the situation, prevent the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict through negotiations, maintain the status quo and continue the occupation of Azerbaijani territories.

The ministry believes that the presence of Armenian armed forces on Azerbaijans occupied lands is the main threat to peace and security in the region and main reason for the tension and ceasefire violation.

To achieve progress in resolution of the conflict and ensure sustainable ceasefire, Armenia should withdraw its troops from Azerbaijans occupied lands as required by the resolutions of the UN Security Council, according to the spokesperson.

Otherwise, Armenia is fully responsible for the current situation, he concluded.

For more than two decades Armenia and Azerbaijan are in a state of war following Yerevans aggression, ethnic cleansing policy and illegal territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenia keeps under control over 20 percent of Azerbaijan's internationally recognized territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent regions in a brutal war in the early 1990s.

Despite a fragile ceasefire agreement signed in 1994, Armenia keeps violating armistice with Azerbaijan.
YEREVAN, MARCH 28, ARMENPRESS. The situation was tense both on Armenia-Azerbaijan border and the contact line of Nagorno Karabakh-Azerbaijan during the weekend. The adversary continued to violate the ceasefire regime, Defense Ministry spokesperson Artsrun Hovhannisyan told Armenpress.

Tension could be noted on border areas during the weekend. We can say that the situation in almost all the bordering communities of Tavush Province was tense. As we know, a civilian was wounded two days ago by the rival shooting, another citizens agricultural property was severely damaged. The measures of the Armenian army were proportionate. Destabilization of the situation during pan-Christian feasts by Azerbaijan and its neglect towards the calls of the international organizations to maintain the ceasefire regime did not remain without retaliation, Artsrun Hovhannisyan said.
/By Azernews/

By Nazrin Gadimova

At a time when the Armenian president is traveling around the world to pursuade the business people to invest in his country, Moodys has made an unfavorable forecast in regards of Armenia.

Moody's Investors Service has warned the international entrepreneurs about the increased risk of investing in Armenia.

The agency downgraded Armenia's long-term issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to B1 from Ba3.

Moodys report on Armenia indeed was based on economic fluctuations in Russia, major ruler of the post Soviet nation's economy. The agency reduced the already weak indicators of Armenia, thus sending a message to international investors.

Providing the important indicators of international investments, rating agencies help investors to determine further steps in relation to a particular country.

Moodys report was an unpleasant surprise for Armenia, which needs foreign investment as ever to compensate heavy losses of its weak economy.

President Serzh Sargsyan's recent statements on the upcoming meetings in an effort to deepen external economic relations indeed testifies how urgently the nation needs investments.

During the meetings held in Iran, Austria, Germany and France Sargsyan appealed international entrepreneurs to invest in his broken-down country.

While the Armenian leader intensifies its actions to attract foreign investments, the agency does not advise to trust the messages of Serzh Sargsyan.

The world's well known expert on economy in fact expressed political distrust in the president's actions. Moody's Investor Service believes that Sargsyans statements are insignificant and will not be transformed in real actions.

Of course, one does not need to be an international rating agency to conclude, understand and fix the negative figure of this ratio.

The political and economic situation remains vulnerable in Armenia, which could be described as a decay of the country. Various international organizations make unfavorable forecasts on the nation's economic situation.

The international community and local experts urge that corruption and abuse of power are the real dominating factors for such situation. Even though Armenia has made several anti-corruption efforts, the de facto situation on the ground remains very problematic.

Foreign investors completely understand economic situation in Armenia and realize a deep institutional, political and economical corruption that enveloped the countrys economy.

Therefore, the morality of the Moody's Investor Service is a clear message addressed not to the foreign investors, but to Serzh Sargsyan, who is trying to cover the economic dislocation with his attractive statements.
Iran, Russia gas swap remains as an idea at the moment, however Tehran is prepared for that, Hamid Reza Araqi, Irans deputy oil minister said.

Iran and Russias Gazprom have held various talks on the issue in recent months, but no agreement has been reached so far, Araqi said, Fars news agency reported March 27.

We have announced to Russia and Gazprom that Iran has the entire necessary infrastructure for swap gas supplies from Russia, Araqi, who heads the National Iranian Gas Company said.

However Russia has not given us a definite answer, so the gas swap remains as an idea and it is not clear when it will be implemented, he added.

In mid-March Irans Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said that Tehran wants to cooperate with Russia in an oil and gas swap mechanism.

"Iran and Russia can have a suitable cooperation in the fields of trade and an oil and gas swap," Zanganeh said after meeting his Russian counterpart Alexander Novak in Tehran.

The two countries have been discussing the swap for several years. Russia would send oil and gas to northern Iran, where supply is scarce, and Iran in return would send oil and gas from its southern fields to Russia's customers in the Persian Gulf.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Iraqi touched upon the issue of gas swap with Turkmenistan, saying the condition is not different from Russias.

Iran is capable of swapping gas with Turkmenistan as well, he added.
President Hassan Rouhani put his support behind the resistance economy policies saying that additional time is needed to enjoy outcomes of the nuclear deal in attraction of capital, technology transfer, and economic interactions, Irna reported.



Speaking at the first cabinet session in the new Iranian year (started March 20), he said that following the measures taken in previous years, ground is better prepared for achieving the results.

He hailed the nuclear agreement as a significant and enduring phenomenon in the history of Iran and world and added, 'Government is seriously monitoring implementation of the deal and the commitments of the opposite party.'

President Rouhani welcomed naming the current year by the Supreme Leader after resistance economy and said, 'This also shows that in the eyes of the Leader, the main issue is economy too. We deeply have faith in this policy.'

He also categorically defended the measures taken to secure the country's defense might and said, 'We will pursue any move required for strengthening the country's defense capacity. This is our strategic policy. We have to be vigilant not to give any pretext to the enemies though.'
There is no particular need for the meeting of the US and Turkish presidents during the 2016 Nuclear Industry Summit, TRT Haber TV channel quoted Ibrahim Kalin, spokesperson for Turkeys presidential administration, as saying March 28.

He noted that recently, the US President Barack Obama and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan have had a phone conversation.

Earlier, some media outlets reported that Obama has refused from a private meeting with Erdogan.

Turkeys president is due in the US this week to attend the 2016 Nuclear Industry Summit.
/By Azernews/

Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev has extended condolences to President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan over the terror attack in Lahor, Azertac state news agency reported.

We were deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties as a result of an explosion in the Lahore city park. We resolutely condemn terror, which has become an evil, and are extremely outraged by this horrible tragedy, and fully support the fight against terrorism, said the president.

On the occasion of this tragedy, on behalf of the Azerbaijani people and on my own behalf, I extend my deep condolences to you, the bereaved families and the loved ones of those who died, and also wish the injured the swiftest possible recovery. May Allah rest the souls of the dead in peace!

Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry also strongly condemned the terrorist attack in the Pakistani city of Lahore, which led to numerous casualties, including the death of children.

"We express our condolences to families and friends of the victims, to the brotherly people of Pakistan, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hikmat Hajiyev said.

Azerbaijan as a country suffering from terrorism strongly condemns all manifestations of terror and fully supports the fight against terrorism, Hajiyev said.

At least 69 people have been killed and scores injured in an explosion at a public park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahorey. Many victims are said to be women and children. A splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the deadly attack.
Property experts, government authorities and real estate developers from the Middle East are reflecting on the last decade of development in the UAE capital as Cityscape Abu Dhabi marks its tenth anniversary edition next month.



A major property showcase event in the UAE, Cityscape Abu Dhabi is being organised by Informa Exhibition from April 12 to 14 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.



For the past decade, Cityscape Abu Dhabi has gathered industry experts, developers, investors and government officials that have contributed to the development of the citys infrastructure, regulatory environment, and triggered real estate investment in the UAE capital, paving the way for the its Vision 2030.



Carlo Schembri, the exhibition manager of Cityscape Abu Dhabi at Informa Exhibitions, said: "Over the past 10 years we have witnessed some incredible project launches at Cityscape Abu Dhabi, such as Saadiyat Island, Al Maryah Island, and Reem Island, to name just a few."



"All of them have contributed a great deal to the success of the emirate and Im confident that despite recent fluctuations in oil prices, we will continue to see ambitious and successful developments unfolding in the capital in the years to come," remarked Schembri.



Talal Al Dhiyebi, the chief development officer at Aldar Properties, sees Cityscape Abu Dhabi as a prominent forum that provides an opportunity to engage with those at the core of the Aldar business strategy.



"The event provides Aldar with an excellent platform to reach a broad audience of real estate investors from local, regional and international markets. In fact, at this year's show, we will be launching a major development in Abu Dhabis most exciting destination  Yas Island," stated Al Dhiyebi.



We have witnessed many major developments in the capital since 2006, and in many ways we have been a part of that growth, shaping the urban fabric of Abu Dhabi with a great number of exemplary projects, many of which people are able to call home, he added.



Reem Developers, a subsidiary of Reem Investments, has been a long-standing exhibitor at Cityscape Abu Dhabi and has contributed to diversifying Abu Dhabis economy through developing wholesome communities providing residential and commercial spaces as well as healthcare, education, hospitality and recreational projects.



Saeed Al Yabhouni, the vice president of Strategic Development, said: "Cityscape Abu Dhabi is a key industry platform that enables us to showcase Reems flagship master developments, Rawdhat on Abu Dhabi island and Najmat on the iconic Reem Island."



"Over the years, it has provided the opportunity to reach out to diverse stakeholders and to underline our competencies as one of the capitals key property developers," he noted.



According to Al Yabhouni, the future for further development of the emirate looks promising as the real estate sector is maturing and has displayed the ability to adapt to different market situations.



Reem Developers is progressing with the development of its masterplanned communities Najmat and Rawdhat to further contribute to the future of Abu Dhabis real estate market, he added.



One of the most prominent projects being showcased at the exhibition is The Tourism Development and Investment Companys (TDIC) Saadiyat Island, an ongoing development aimed at establishing a cultural centre in Abu Dhabi with Manarat Al Saadiyat and the UAE Pavilion among the completed projects within the district.



Together with the ambitious Louvre project, set to open at the end of 2016, as well as Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi that are already under construction, these developments will contribute to the emirates success and its reputation as a UAE cultural advocate.



Cityscape Abu Dhabi is supported by strategic partner Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA), Platinum sponsor Wahat Al Zaweya, Gold sponsor Eshraq Properties and Silver sponsor Masdar City. It is being hosted alongside the Bride Abu Dhabi show.-TradeArabia News Service
Bayer Middle East recently organized a regional training workshop for 200 pharmacists from 11 countries to equip them with the necessary skill sets required to work with patients.



The workshop is part of Bayer Prestige Clubs continuous initiative that aims to encourage the development of pharmacists according to World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Pharmaceutical Federations (FIP) seven-star concept, which describes a pharmacist as a caregiver, communicator, decision-maker, teacher, lifelong learner, leader and manager.



The event, organised for the fourth year in a row, saw the attendance of pharmacists from Middle East countries including UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon. For the first time this year, pharmacists from Turkey attended the conference to learn from the Middle East experience.



Through interactive workshops conducted by industry experts, the pharmacists were provided key insight on working with time management, financial understanding and maximizing positivity and minimizing stress.



Training pharmacists to become experts in providing pharmaceutical care is a part of our on-going global efforts to recognize the important role they play in the healthcare infrastructure to support patient needs, said Mohamed Galal, vice president- head of Consumer Health Division Bayer Middle East.



We strongly encourage the development of our pharmacists to become seven-star experts, where pharmaceutical partnership is very important to increase the level of awareness among patients and towards achieving the ultimate goal of providing distinguished service to the patients at Arab World.



The concept of seven-star pharmacists, which was launched by WHO and FIP in November 2006, is aimed to address the need of pharmacists to meet the ever-increasing health demands--an ever-growing and complex range of medicines, and the evolution of the pharmacists role into a more patient-centric approach (known as pharmaceutical care).



The workshop was received with great enthusiasm by the attendees with many of them eager to learn how to solve the challenges and provide best service to patients.  TradeArabia News Service
More than 20 top airlines will attend MRO Networks upcoming Airline Engineering & Maintenance: Middle East conference, to be held next month, in Abu Dhabi, UAE.



Etihad Airways Engineering, a leading aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider in the Middle East, will be the host sponsor of the event, said a statement from the company.



The event will be held on April 26 and 27.



The Middle East provides a unique opportunity for the key stakeholders in the MRO value chain  airlines, OEMs, MROs and suppliers  to network, explore the evolving MRO landscape and forge new connections to take advantage of the current and emerging opportunities, added the statement.



The topics to be discussed at the event will range from the developments in the Middle East Air Transport Market, an MRO industry forecast and how airlines engage with their MRO partners and suppliers, it added.



Additionally, Etihad Airways Engineering will organise a tour of its facility exclusively for conference delegates at the conclusion of the conference, introducing delegates to its management team and offering the opportunity to visit hangars and various workshops within the facility.



Jeff Wilkinson, senior vice president  technical, Etihad Airways, said: It is our pleasure to host delegates of the conference.



We are organising an escorted tour of Etihad Airways Engineering state-of-the-art workshops and hangars, one of the largest MRO facilities in the region. This will include Hangar 6 which accommodates up to three A380 aircraft simultaneously, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
Russian ground forces did not take part in the Syrian army's operation to drive Islamic State fighters out of the city of Palmyra, but the Russian air force did and it will continue assisting Syrian government troops, the Kremlin said on Monday.



"We are talking about air support by our planes. Our armed forces are not conducting any land operations there," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a teleconference with reporters.



"After the withdrawal of part of our (military) contingent from Syria, air force units remaining at two bases - in Hmeymim and Tartous - will continue fighting terrorist groups ... and will continue supporting the Syrian's army's offensive."  Reuters
Abu Dhabi Airports is marking a decade of innovation in aviation this year as the company celebrates its 10th anniversary.



Created in 2006 through an Amiri Decree from the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Airports Company was formed to spearhead the development of the emirate's aviation infrastructure, and assumed responsibility for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) and Al Ain Airport (AAN). Abu Dhabi Airports later added Al Bateen Executive Airport (AZI), an exclusive business aviation airport, along with Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island Airports to its portfolio.



The company has further diversified its assets over the last 10 years to include Abu Dhabi Airport Business City  a free zone operating at AUH, AAN and AZI; and the Gulf Center for Aviation Studies  a center of excellence for airport and aviation training.



Ali Majed Al Mansoori, chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: Innovation, as well as the passion and determination of our staff, have been the key pillars to our continued success. The aviation sector in the emirate has changed considerably over the last 10 years and we are proud of the role that Abu Dhabi Airports has played in facilitating the positive changes witnessed in this dynamic sector. Through innovative products such as our recently launched Smart Travel System at Abu Dhabi International Airport, we have consistently provided high quality facilities and services with cutting-edge solutions to passengers at all our airports, and we will continue to do as we receive more and more visitors from around the world.



Since 2006, Abu Dhabi Airports has thrived. The company has invested over Dh20 billion ($5.4 billion) in capital development projects during the past 10 years across all of its airport sites. The biggest infrastructure project undertaken so far, the Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), will increase Abu Dhabi International Airports overall capacity to 45 million passengers per year.



Emiratization figures have increased from 25 per cent in 2010 to over 50 per cent in 2015, with 82 per cent of executive management roles now occupied by UAE nationals. The company remains committed to its objective to be an employer of choice for Emiratis and has developed its National Development Program (NDP) for employing and training UAE graduates.



Aviation is playing a significant role in the diversification of the economy, as outlined in Abu Dhabis Economic Vision 2030. It is therefore imperative to develop national expertise and workforce within the industry to deliver sustainable growth. Our National Development Program is enabling us to exceed our targets and develop the human capital able to lead this vital industry well into the future, Al Mansoori added.



Some of the key milestones of the last ten years include:



2006  Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) was created to manage and operate AUH and AAN.



2007 - People and assets were integrated into ADAC from Department of Civil Aviation (DCA).



2008  Abu Dhabi Airports took over the operation and management of Al Bateen Executive Airport, Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island airports; AUH became one of the first in the world to be ACI Service Quality Assured Certified.



2009  Terminal 3 at AUH was opened, becoming the home of Etihad Airways; the northern runway became operational; and the Gulf Center for Aviation Studies (GCAS) was established.



2010  Terminal 1 at AUH was refurbished; the first 1 million passengers in a month (August) at AUH was recorded; and Expo Check-In was opened at ADNEC.



2011  New Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower was opened at AUH; Abu Dhabi Government announced AUH, AAN and AZI as free zones; AUH was certified as the first Airport Carbon Accredited in the Asia-Pacific region.



2012  First Abu Dhabi Air Expo was held; AUH achieved a Gold Status for Fast Travel Worldwide in 2012; Abu Dhabi Airports held the 18th World Route Development Forum; and construction commenced on the Midfield Terminal Complex.



2013  New arrivals hall opened at AUH; National Development Program was introduced.



2014 - US Pre-Clearance facility at AUH was opened; southern runway was renovated; first A380 flight from AUH took off; first steel arch assembled at MTC; and VIP terminal at AUH opened.



2015  The process began to de-prop the 18 steel arches of MTC; passenger traffic at AUH reached 23.2 million passengers per year; Abu Dhabi Duty Free sales reached a record high of 1.5billion AED; the US pre-clearance facility won an Abu Dhabi Excellence Award; and the Duty Free operators were announced for the MTC. - TradeArabia News Service
YEREVAN, MARCH 28, ARMENPRESS. Doctors assess the health condition of Norik Alikhanyan, resident of Berkaber village of Tavush Province, who had sustained gunshot wound as a result of ceasefire regime violation by Azerbaijan as moderate, Press secretary of Erebuni hospital Shushan Hunanyan told Armenpress.

The patient is out of danger now; he remains in the department of thoracic surgery under the surveillance of doctors. The patient will receive treatment for some more time, she said.

Armenian citizen Norik Alikhanyan, 64, sustained gunshot wound on March 25, near his house in Berkaber village of Tavush Province, caused by ceasefire violation by Azerbaijan.
There will be more than 50 exhibits, which would include hands-on activities. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the academys campus, 3888 E. River Road. Exhibitors include the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Pima Air & Space Museum, Southern Arizona Rocketry Association and the International Dark-Sky Association.
Fall and early winter rains relieved drought conditions in the Southwest, but also grew a lot of grasses that have cured in the abnormal heat and deficient rain of the last couple months.

Ive been at the fire station 17 years, and I havent seen it look as bad as it does right now, said Oracle Fire Chief Larry Southard.

Southard said the oak/manzanita grasslands of his district on the north side of the Santa Catalina Mountains are knee-high, contiguous and thick.

His department responded to three brush fires in February, a month that is normally pretty slow, he said.

Regionally, the fire danger is normal, according to a fire season prediction from the Southwest Coordination Center in Albuquerque, which manages wildland fire resources for New Mexico, Arizona and West Texas.

Exceptions to that prediction are in western Arizona and the southern portions of Arizona and New Mexico, where the same rains that relieved drought create loading and continuity of fine fuels. Those conditions point to above-normal fire danger, especially when winds and available fine fuels align, according to a March 11 report from the centers predictive services.

Wind and fuel aligned last week to spread the Baker Canyon Fire in a remote area of southeastern Arizona at the New Mexico line. The fire, which began about 28 miles northeast of Douglas, is still burning on land managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, Arizona State Land and the Coronado National Forest. It has burned across 7,050 acres of brush and grasses.

One home and six outbuildings are threatened by the fire, which has crossed into New Mexico and is about 15 percent contained.

The U.S. Forest Service has already battled 11 fires this year on more than 8,000 acres of grassland in the Coronado National Forest, said spokeswoman Heidi Schewel.

She noted that the last fire of 2015 was on Dec. 26 and the first fire of 2016 broke out on Jan. 16. The new normal on the Coronado National Forest is that fire season is year-round, Schewel said.

The Coronado manages land on or adjacent to Southern Arizonas Sky Island mountain ranges, where fire danger in late spring and early summer is greatest in the high-altitude conifer forests. Now, those areas are still moist from winter precipitation and snow patches remain in the highest elevations, said Schewel.

In the grasslands, the danger is now. There are abundant fuels that have cured out at lower elevations, Schewel said.

This time of year, fires are usually assumed to be human-caused. Only one of the 11 fires on the Coronado this year was naturally caused  a lightning strike during an unusual winter thunderstorm.

In Oracle, all three February fires were of human origin, Southard said. Two were along roads where dragging tow chains, tire blowouts and discarded cigarettes are the usual culprits. The other fire resulted from backyard disposal of warm fireplace ashes, said Southard.

In addition to the usual warnings about responsibly tending campfires and cooking fires, officials are again promoting a one less spark campaign to prevent fires from starting.

Use situational awareness, said Schewel. There are no restrictions in place at the moment, but on a dry, windy day in the grasslands, fires can start easily with a dragging tow chain or even a lawn mower blade hitting a rock, she said.

After two months of temperatures well above normal and negligible rainfall, the grasslands are primed to burn.
PHOENIX  Insisting its good for everything from civics to brain development, state lawmakers want to require students to know how to read and write in cursive.

Legislation on the desk of Gov. Doug Ducey would mandate that schools include cursive reading and writing in their curriculum. Specifically, students would have to show by the end of fifth grade they are able to create readable documents through legible cursive handwriting.

But, unlike a requirement that students know how to read by the end of the third grade, there is nothing in the law that says students who cant display that skill dont get to go on to sixth grade.

The vote by the House to send the bill to Ducey followed extensive debate over the merits of cursive writing. And proponents cited what they said is research by Steve Graham, a professor at Arizona State University who has developed a national reputation in not only teaching writing but how it can be used to support reading and learning.

Graham told Capitol Media Services he found the fact that lawmakers took the time to debate the mandate a little silly.

I dont mean to sound snarky, but it seems like they should have more pressing and important things to be focusing in on, he said.

More to the point, Graham said many of the claims being made  some in his name  have no merit.

And there were plenty of such claims during the House debate.

This is a job skill that our young people will need when they get out of school to be able to hold down a job, said Rep. Karen Fann, R-Prescott.

The quality of handwriting and the quality of the written text can be detected and seen on MRI imaging, said Rep. Brenda Barton, R-Payson.

What happens when the computers arent in front of you? asked House Speaker David Gowan, R-Sierra Vista.

Are we really wanting to dumb down our students to the point where they cant even read a card in the mail from grandma written in cursive? asked Rep. Kelly Townsend, R-Mesa.

Graham dismissed that last one as weak.

Just because you dont write in cursive doesnt mean you cant read it, he said.

It may be a little harder to do, Graham continued. But its not like the letters are completely different.

As to brain development, Graham said both traditional manuscript and cursive writing are both motor skills. And he said both would show up identically in a brain scan.

Now if the difference is between writing by hand and using a keyboard, Graham said they will light up different areas of the brain. Thats because theyre different motor patterns.

That doesnt mean that one creates a better brain as a result of this, he said. Thats really junk science.

Graham said there is a benefit to knowing how to write, in whatever form.

People prefer to take notes by hand when theyre working on stuff, he said.

Graham said if lawmakers are interested in helping students to think better, they would do more to ensure they know how to use a keyboard. He said there is evidence showing a difference in writing skills by those who use computers versus doing it longhand.

Word processing offers so many advantages over writing by hand, Graham said, not only because people generally can write faster at a keyboard, but theres also immediate help with spelling, grammar and even finding synonyms for words. And theres also the ability to share the composition with others at a distance to get feedback.

This just doesnt make a lot of sense to me to be putting all this energy into 19th century tools, he said.

Lawmakers who voted against the legislation had their own reasons.

Rep. Lisa Otondo, D-Yuma, said she is sad that cursive is not taught in many schools.

What I do not support is mandating the schools curriculum, she said. Otondo said that power should be left to the state Board of Education.

Rep. Reginald Bolding, D-Laveen, worried about the verbiage requiring students to show they can create readable documents.

Who determines whats a readable document? he asked.

And Rep. Juan Mendez, D-Tempe, confessed he cannot write cursive and told colleagues it hasnt affected his ability to get a job  or even be elected to the Legislature.

Graham said that, in the long run, it probably doesnt matter whether the mandate becomes law or not.

Handwritings not going to disappear, he said. Its too cheap.
YEREVAN, MARCH 28, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian will pay a visit to Switzerland on March 29 to attend the high level meeting on assistance to Syrian refugees to be held in Geneva.

As Armenpress was informed from the Department of Press, Information and Public Relations of MFA Armenia, Edward Nalbandian will leave for Washington on March 30, to join the delegation led by Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan which will participate in Nuclear Security Summit.
When kids are acting out and not focusing at school, the problem might be grief.

Based on demand and the prevalence of local young people who have lost a loved one, the Tucson-based nonprofit Tu Nidito Children & Family Services this month began offering a new, free grief-education program.

The one-hour session is geared toward employees at community agencies, schools or any adult who works closely with children and teens.

One in nine Americans loses a parent by the time they are 20 years old, according to research by the Virginia-based nonprofit Comfort Zone Camp, which provides childhood bereavement camps.

Other children may suffer the loss of a friend, a sibling, or another close family member.

It could be that a teacher died in the middle of the school year. Or a high schooler died by suicide. Or a parent died years ago. Tu Nidito officials frequently respond to all those types of scenarios, which is why they are hoping community grief education will be helpful.

When the adults around a grieving child dont notice or intervene, that childs future is at risk, experts say.

EXPERIENCING GRIEF

The grief program, designed by Tu Nidito community impact manager Amanda Marks, aims to promote awareness and understanding of childrens grief over losing someone to death. Tu Nidito will go out to agencies or have people attend sessions at its central Tucson location at 3922 N. Mountain Ave.

Children grieve differently than adults, Marks said during a recent session attended by local school counselors and social workers. And shes talking about all kids from infants to 18-year-olds.

Teenagers may look like adults, but they are still children and need unique and focused attention when they go through a loss, said Marks, who is a licensed social worker.

For one thing, kids will typically grieve in different ways throughout their developmental stages. So a child may begin acting out years after a loved one has died because as they mature they are re-experiencing grief in a new way, Marks said.

Grief is not linear. It lasts for a as long as it lasts, Tu Nidito officials say.

Its not that a school subject isnt interesting to them. You just never know, Marks said. It could be the anniversary of their dads death. It could have happened six years ago but the child has hit a new developmental milestone.

THREE TASKS OF GRIEVING

Kids may also regress and wet the bed or insist on sleeping with a parent because of a death.

Anyone in the community can become aware of the milestones and be better equipped to support that child, Marks said.

The session takes participants through what Tu Nidito officials have identified as three main tasks children face as they grieve. The tasks were developed from Harvard psychologist J. William Wordens often-cited Four Tasks of Mourning.

The three childrens tasks identified by Tu Nidito: The child wants to understand what has happened when a significant loss has occurred; the child wants to express their feelings about loss; and the child wants to continue to live fully in the present and open up to the future.

NO CHILD GRIEVES ALONE

Tu Nidito, which has a motto of, No Child Grieves Alone, has a sole focus of supporting children, teens and families who are grieving the death of a loved one or are facing a serious medical diagnosis.

The name Tu Nidito means your little nest in Spanish and refers to the 20-year-old organizations aim of providing a safe place for kids.

Its quite often that I see children endure deaths in the family. Where I am a counselor there are lots ot tatas, nanas, tios and tias, a lot of extended family, said Ed Rothlisberger, a counselor in the Tucson Unified School District who attended a recent grief education session taught by Marks.

We have to help them out. It is hard to focus on schoolwork when they are grieving. We need resources for kids.

Preparing herself with tools and information she will inevitably need in her career is why TJ Von Isser, a social work intern at Mission View Elementary School, attended the session.

She values knowing the services the agency provides in the community, including at local Boys and Girls Clubs. And Von Isser was impressed with the agencys approach to handling grief in children through peer support and play rather than adult-child talk therapy.

Im here for information gathering, knowing how to support children when the topic comes up, Von Isser said.

Nearly 70 percent of teachers in the U.S. has at least one student in their class who has lost a parent, guardian, sibling, or close friend in the past year, a 2012 study by the New York Life Foundation and the American Federation of Teachers found. That same study found only seven percent of the teachers surveyed had received bereavement training.

Failure to address a childs grief can result in devastating outcomes like delinquent behavior, alcoholism, incarceration, running away and mental health issues, experts say.

AVOID PASSED AWAY

Anyone old enough to love is old enough to grieve, said Marks. She said infants younger than six months old can sense an absence.

She urges adults to be truthful when they talk about death and to stay away from more vague terms like passed away. Use more concrete words like dead, and a clear explanation, like their body stopped working, she advises.

Admit it when you dont know the answer, and empower children by involving them in the dying and mourning process. That means describing in detail what to expect at a funeral, for example, and giving children the option of being there, Marks said. Tell them how many people will be there and how long will it last. Its all about giving them choices, Marks said.

She also teaches reflective listening.

They are more looking to be heard than for an answer, Marks said. They need a safe place where their answer is okay.
ISLAMABAD  A breakaway Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group has claimed responsibility for an Easter Sunday bombing that killed 65 people in a park in the eastern city of Lahore that was crowded with Christians, including many children.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, told the Associated Press that a suicide bomber with the faction deliberately targeted the Christian community.

The explosion took place near the children's rides in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park local police chief Haider Ashraf said. He said the explosion appeared to have been a suicide bombing, but investigations were ongoing.

The attack killed 65 people and wounded over 300, said Deeba Shahnaz, a spokesman for Lahore rescue administration.

Punjab's chief minister Shahbaz Sharif announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice, said Zaeem Qadri, a spokesman for the provincial government.

The park was manned by police and private security guards, police chief Haider Ashraf said. "We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat but no specific threat alert was received for this place," he added.

Schools and businesses in the city will remain closed on Monday, the city's schools association and the Union of Lahore Traders said.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif held a meeting to assess the security situation in Lahore, according to a government statement. Pakistan's army chief, Gen. Raheel Sharif, also convened an emergency meeting of the country's intelligence agencies to begin to track down those responsible for the attacks, said army spokesman Gen. Asim Saleem Bajwa.

Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the Punjab government, called on people to donate blood, saying that many of those wounded were in a critical condition.

One witness, who wished to be identified only by his first name, Afzal, told AP that he had taken 20 children to hospital and carried three dead bodies to a police car. "I can't explain to you the tragic situation," he said.

Another witness, Tariq Mustapha, said that he had just left the park when he heard an explosion. He said his friend was still missing.

Footage broadcast on local television stations showed chaotic scenes in the park, with people running while carrying children and cradling the wounded in their laps.

A witness, not identified by name on Pakistan's Geo TV station, said he was heading toward a fairground ride with his wife and two children when he heard a huge bang and all four of them were thrown to the floor. A woman was shown crying while looking desperately for her missing 5-year-old son.
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By TwoCircles.net Staff Correspondent,

Kochi: The Kerala High Court,on Thursday, ordered life imprisonment for six accused in the murder of Yasir. The accused have also been fined for Rs 25,000 each. The judgement of the division bench of the High Court has scrapped the order of the Manjeri sessions court in 2005 by which all the accused were acquitted for lack of evidence. Yasir, native of Tirur, was murdered in 1998.

Madathil Narayanan, Raveendran alias Ravi, Sunil Kumar alias Suni, Manoj Kumar alias Manoj, Kooliparambil Nandakumar and Kattuvilayil Sivaprasad are the accused. The judgement was made by the division bench consisting of Js K Balakrishnan Nair and P Bhavadasan. The court acquitted Nirathil Balakrishnan, the fifth accused, on want of evidence. Puthuppalli Surendran, the fourth accused, is absconding. The High Court also removed the remarks made by the subordinate court about VP Radhakrishnan, the CI of Tirur who was in charge of the investigation.

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The accused have to undergo imprisonment under various sections of the IPC like 143 (six months), 147 (one year), 148 (two years), 302 (life imprisonment) and 307 (seven years). Each accused has to pay a fine of Rs 25,000. The court also directed to pay Rs 1, 25,000 from the fine amount to the widow of Yasir and Rs 25,000 to Yasirs friend Abdul Azeez who also was injured in the attack. The accused have to undergo imprisonment for two more years in case of failure to pay the fine.

Yasir was killed by a group of men, reportedly RSS activists, at around 2 am on August 18, 1998. His friend Abdul Azeez also was seriously injured. Even though the police took them to the Taluk Hospital in Tirur, Yasir succumbed to his injuries. The prosecution case reportedly says that the accused who are RSS activists killed Yasir due to their revenge for the conversion of Yasir, friend Azeez and some others to Islam. The judgement passed by the HC yesterday came in the special revision petition filed by Yasirs widow Sumayya through Adv CK Sreedharan.

The court reportedly observed that the reasons listed by the subordinate court to set the accused free were illegal and denial of justice. The High Court also expressed displeasure at the judgement of the subordinate court even after the witnesses had recognised the accused during the trial and the prosecution had presented all the relevant documents.

Senior lawyer CK Sreedharan and lawyers Sunny Mathew, PC Noushad and MP Abdul Latheef argued for the petitioner. Public Prosecutor Noble Mathew was present for the government and lawyers PS Sreedharan Pilla, N Bhaskaran Nair and Bodhini argued for the accused.

Yasir was earlier Ayyappan, a Hindu who used to perform religious rites in temples. He reportedly learned about Islam through his friend Jabbar and converted to Islam in 1990. His wife and two children also accompanied him. Ayyappan changed his name as Yasir and his wife became Sumayya. Yasir used to call the Azan very beautifully. With his calm nature and attractive talks, he soon became a good preacher of Islam. About 40 families, reportedly, embraced Islam by his efforts. This made him a sore in the eyes of the RSS which reportedly threatened him in many ways. But Yasir paid no heed to them.

On the day of murder, Yasir came back home late after taking his younger son to the doctor. When his daughter told him that some people had come to the house asking for him, he set out with his brother and friends in an auto rickshaw in the direction the people had left. A group of people stopped the vehicle and scared others away before they attacked Yasir and Azeez. When the police reached the spot, the attackers had escaped. The seriously hurt men were taken to hospital. Yasir succumbed to his injuries, while Azeez was saved.

All the eight accused in the case were acquitted by the sessions court on March 21, 2005. This led to tensions in Tirur in which three people were killed. Yasirs family welcomed the HC order. Sumayya expressed her gratitude to all those who had helped them in the case.


Help India!

By Raqib Hameed Naik, TwoCircles.net

Srinagar: After the brother of deceased trucker Zahid Rasool Bhat filed transfer application in the case pertaining the petrol bomb attack on his brother which led to his death; the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has passed directions to the Udhampur trial court not to pass any order in the case.

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The Public Prosecutor of the concerned court belonged to a particular group and was also being influenced accordingly by those having particular ideology which is different to the community to which the petitioner belongs. He also submitted that he has no faith in the Bar Association of Udhampur, for they are being influenced by particular group of people, Ghulam Nabi, brother of deceased, wrote in the transfer application.









Justice Muhammad Yaqoob Mir while hearing the plea sought objections from the government within one week.

Importantly, Zahid Rasool Bhat, one of the Kashmiri truckers immolated by a group of Hindu radicals in Udhampur last year had died after he succumbed to his injuries at New Delhis Safdarjung hospital. A resident of Batengo area of Khanabal near Srinagar-Jammu highway, Zahid had suffered 70% burn injuries with swollen respiratory system due to swallowing of fire flames.

The attack was in fit of rage over the recovery of carcasses of three cows in the same district during those days.

The police had arrested six people under the PSA and five other under the Explosives Substances Act.

Justice Mohammad Yaqoob Mir of J&K High Court, after hearing advocate Joyti Sharma for the petitioner and AAG WS Nagral for the State, directed the later to file objections within one week. The High Court also directed that trial court shall not pass any order till next date of hearing before the Bench.

(With inputs from CNS)

Related:

Violent beef protest reaches J&K; Three attacked with petrol bomb in Udhampur

Kashmir simmers in anger after Zahid becomes another Akhlaq

Separatist shutdown, restrictions impact life in Kashmir
Help India!

By Ashley Tellis for Twocircles.net

It is time that civil society launched a counter-offensive campaign to the nonsense to which the state is subjecting its citizens. Anyone who works with the poor and the marginalised, particularly the adivasis in resource-rich regions in the country, are branded Naxalite. Many are put in jail and rot there as undertrials, acid is thrown on some faces, others are threatened and intimidated. These are mainly tribal. But non-tribal people across the board  academics, activists and researchers  are being attacked.

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From Binayak Sen to Arun Ferreira, from G. N. Saibaba to Vara Vara Rao, well-known, middle class people, otherwise beyond the purview of the punitive state have all been criminalised. The state is now after academics too, as with the recent attack on Bela Bhatia and Jean Dreze, though academics and researchers in these resource-rich tribal-dominated regions have been under attack for some time now.

If this is the state of affairs, if people with power and resources can be hounded, jailed and attacked, what of the powerless tribals in jails across these states? Most of these are undertrials with no lawyers.

In Chhattisgarh, the Jagdalpur Legal Aid group which is a group of three women, who did fight cases for them, was intimidated, abused, debarred and harassed. This is the country we live in. We produce thousands of lawyers but not one of them works for tribals. Instead, they intimidate women who do or beat up student leaders in Patiala House in New Delhi as part of Hindu fundamentalist party lawyer groups or make sick, sexist comments about how women are like flowers in a documentary about Jyoti Singh, the rape victim in Delhi on December 16, 2012. With lawyers like these, who needs criminals?

What chance does a tribal have in any of these states to survive? The BJP claims to love India and Indians and yet all they do is trample on the rights of the poorest of Indians if they dare come in the way of their making large amounts of money. They destroy the land which they claim to love and dont give a damn about the ecological repercussions so long as they can dream all night about rupee notes that will come their way once the MNCs mine the shit out of the earth and leave us all devastated. What they do not realise is that they will be dead and will have to eat all that money once the land produces nothing.

If Gayatri Spivaks extraordinary essay Can The Subaltern Speak? showed us that is is almost impossible to retrieve the voice of the historical subaltern from the archive, the modern Indian state is ensuring us that we cannot hear the subaltern speak even in the present by killing adivasis, throwing them in jail, torturing them, raping them, throwing acid on their faces.

The second thread of the Spivak essay is about the middle class upper caste intellectual/academic and how she must be careful about how she represents the subaltern either historically or in the present. The Indian state is ensuring that that figure, in the form of Bela Bhatia and Jean Dreze at the moment, cannot even attempt to represent the subaltern.

In contemporary India, it is not only the subaltern who cannot speak. No one but the powerful who only spew hatred can speak.

Ashley Tellis is an LGBT rights activist and academician based out of Tamil Nadu.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. A Turkish village headman was killed and three soldiers were slightly injured in a roadside bomb attack in southeastern Sanliurfa province on March 28, a security source said, 'Armenpress' reports citing Anadolu agency.

According to the source, PKK freedom fighters carried out the attack in the provinces Siverek district.

The injured soldiers were taken to the Siverek State Hospital.

An investigation into the incident is now underway.

After the incident, the Turkish security forces began large-scale operations against PKK.

Last week, during PKK freedom fighters shoootouts with Turkish soldiers, 8 were killed and 24 servicemen wounded in Turkey.
Help India!

By TwoCircles.net Staff Reporter

Lucknow: All India Majlis Ittehadul Muslimeen chief Asaduddin Owaisi visited Lucknow to interact with his party workers and Muslim clerics on Monday.

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Owaisi had been denied permission to hold public meeting in Lucknow on March 17.

Both Samajwadi Party and BJP remained on target of Owaisi during his visit to Lucknow.

Both SP and BJP are same. I have been denied permission to hold meeting while RSS chief is allowed. They are one and the same. Now everybody knows it, he said.









Owaisi focussed on his Muslim voters and asked his workers to be ready for contesting the next assembly polls with sloganJai Bheem Jai Meem. Now everybody knows what is the trend among Muslims. Bikapur byelection has showed it. Muslims are facing the brunt. Only two persons were held responsible for Muzaffarnagar riots instead of state government, Owaisi remarked.

Owaisi also stated that there is no need for any certificate from anyone to brand him as nationalist. We have sacrificed our life and blood for the nation. We were in the forefront during independence struggle, he said. Owaisi also raised sloganHIndustan Zindabad and Jai Hind.

Earlier Owaisi arrived in Lucknow in the morning and went to Dewa Shareef in Barabanki where he offered Chadar on Dargah. Coming back to Lucknow, Owaisi went to Nadwatul Uloom and met Maulana Rabey Hasan Nadwi. He them proceeded to meet Maulana Kalbe Jawwad Naqvi. It was a courtesy meeting as I was in Lucknow and it was my duty to meet them, he said.

Thereafter Owaisi headed to his partys local office at Bulaki Adda where he addressed his party workers and media before leaving Lucknow.

While going to party office a group of SP workers showed black flags but workers of AIMIM chased them away while police also dispersed them.

Just see that UP government has not been able to utilise funds for minorities development in the state. We want that poor should get their rights, he said.

Owaisi got a warm welcome in Lucknow with his supporters stopping his cavalcade at short distance to garland him. Where ever he went, he was mobbed both by his supporters and media. Slogans of Dekho Dekho Kaun Aaya. Sher Aaya Sher Aaya were raised in his favour.
Help India!

Compiled by Dr.Ajmal

About the Conference

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A four-day international Sufi conference was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi in New Delhi on 17 March. Thousands of delegates from various parts of India and about a hundred foreign guests are attending this event which is being organised by a fairly new organisation called All India Ulama and Mashaikh Board, headed by Hazrat Syed Muhammad Ashraf Ashrafi, who belongs to the Barelwi Muslim sub-sect .

In a joint press statement by a number of important leaders of the Indian Muslim community on 11 February, they said that the elements(Hindutva forces)who earlier served their political aims by pitting Muslims and Hindus in violence against one another in the past, have now hatched a conspiracy to push Muslims of various sects to fight each other, moving from Hindu-Muslim to Muslim-Muslim strife.

Photo By voanews.com

The leaders alleged that the Indian government is providing funds freely for this purpose. They said that the organisers are trying to spread sectarian chaos in the name of Sufism, and are falsely accusing some Muslim groups of being supporters of terrorism, while the fact is that every Muslim group and organisation in India has condemned terrorism and issued umpteen statements and fatwas to this effect.

On 7 March the organisers of the Sufi event accepted that the government is helping them. They justified it saying that such a big event cannot be organised without government help

Hijacking Islam the Sufi  Western Way

There is no doubt that there is a lot of confusion and fitnah in the Muslim ummah these days. Good and truth has been made to appear as evil and falsehood and vice versa. New and old Muslims alike are being affected by this fitnah.

It is important to point out that supporting Sufi Islam and pitting Muslims against each other has been a well-planned out strategy  advised by RAND Corp to the USA Govt. RAND Corp is one of the most powerful global policy think tank, with revenues exceeding 300million USD.

Here is a very interesting quote from the publication called  Civil Democratic Islam: Partners, Resources, and Strategies which helps to clear up the misunderstandings and expose the falsehood.It gives details of how these Organisations&Governments have concocted to hijack Islam and present a modified Moderate Islam suitable to their needs using the hypocrites, puppet scholars and the Sufis and misguide the Muslim youth with it.

RAND advises the US to discredit, demonize, slander, and concoct false charges or evidences against the sincere followers of Islam by any means necessary, especially by using the western controlled media in the US, which often leads to unjust harassment and imprisonment. It advises to propagate Sufi-ism among the Muslim Masses.This is done in order to turn the masses of the Muslims in general and women in particular, against following true Islam and to cause them to despise and disassociate from the adherent followers of Islam.

A PLAIN READING OF WHAT THEY ADVISE IS ENOUGH FOR ANY ONE TO KNOW THE TRUTH

Below is the part-Verbatim text from the SUMMARY& APPENDIX C sections of RAND published guide book  Civil Democratic Islam: Partners, Resources, and Strategies

The Islamic world has been marked by along period of backwardness and comparative powerlessness; many differentsolutions, such as nationalism, pan-Arabism, Arab socialism, and Islamic revolution, have been attempted without success, and this has led to frustration andanger. At the same time, the Islamic world has fallen out of step with contemporary global culture, an uncomfortable situation for both sides.

Muslims disagree on what to do about this, and they disagree on what their society ultimately should look like. We can distinguish four essential positions:

 Fundamentalists reject democratic values and contemporary Western culture. They want an authoritarian, puritanical state that will implement their extreme view of Islamic law and morality. They are willing to use innovation and modern technology to achieve that goal.

 Traditionalists want a conservative society. They are suspicious of modernity, innovation, and change.

 Modernists want the Islamic world to become part of global modernity. They want to modernize and reform Islam to bring it into line with the age.

 Secularists want the Islamic world to accept a division of church and state in the manner of Western industrial democracies, with religion relegated to the private sphere.

The fundamentalists are hostile to the West and to the United States in particular and are intent, to varying degrees, on damaging and destroying democratic modernity. Supporting them is not an option, except for transitory tactical considerations. The traditionalistsgenerally hold more moderate views, but there are significant differences between different groups of traditionalists.

Some are close to the fundamentalists. None wholeheartedly embraces modern democracy and the culture and values of modernity and, at best, can only make an uneasy peace with them.

The modernists and secularists are closest to the West in terms of values and policies. However, they are generally in a weaker position than the other groups, lacking powerful backing, financial resources, an effective infrastructure, and a public platform. Thesecularists, besides sometimes being unacceptable as allies on the basis of their broader ideological affiliation, also have trouble addressing the traditional sector of an Islamic audience.

Traditional orthodox Islam contains democratic elements that can be used tocounter the repressive, authoritarian Islam of the fundamentalists, but it is notsuited to be the primary vehicle of democratic Islam. That role falls to theIslamic modernists, whose effectiveness, however, has been limited by a number of constraints, which this report will explore.

Dr.Israr Ahmed had also in more than one occasion discussed about this notion in his lectures 

Build Up a Modernist Leadership  Create role models and leaders.

Modernists who risk persecution should be built up as courageous civil rights leaders, which indeed they are. There are precedents showing that this can work.

Include modern, mainstream Muslims in political outreach events, to reflect demographic reality. Avoid artificially over-Islamizing the Muslims; instead, accustom them to the idea that Islam can be just one part of their identity.

Support civil society in the Islamic world.

This is particularly important in situations of crisis, refugee situations, and postconflict situations, in which a democratic leadership can emerge and gain practical experience through local NGOs and other civic associations. On the rural and neighborhood levels, as well, civic associations are an infrastructure that can lead to political education and a moderate, modernist leadership.

Develop Western Islam: German Islam, U.S. Islam, etc.

This requires gaining a better understanding of the composition, as well as the evolving practice and thought, in these communities. Assist in eliciting, expressing, and codifying their views.

Go on the Offensive against Fundamentalists

Delegitimize individuals and positions associated with extremist Islam. Make public the immoral and hypocritical deeds and statements of self-styled fundamentalist authorities.

Encourage Arab journalists in popular media to do investigative reporting on the lives and personal habits and corruption of fundamentalist leaders. Publicize incidents that highlight their brutalityand their hypocrisy.

Assertively Promote the Values of Western Democratic Modernity

Create and propagate a model for prosperous, moderate Islam by identifying and actively aiding countries or regions or groups with the appropriate views.Publicize their successes.

Criticize the flaws of traditionalism.

Show the causal relationship between traditionalism and underdevelopment, as well as the causal relationship between modernity, democracy, progress, and prosperity. Do fundamentalism and traditionalism offer Islamic society a healthy, prosperous future? Are they successfully meeting the challenges of the day? Do they compare well with other social orders?

Build up the stature of Sufism.

Encourage countries with strong Sufi traditions to focus on that part of their history and to include it in their school curriculum. Pay more attention to Sufi Islam.

Focus on Education and Youth

Committed adult adherents of radical Islamic movements are unlikely to be easily influenced into changing their views. The next generation, however, can conceivably be influenced if the message of democratic Islam can be inserted into school curricula and public media in the pertinent countries.

Amixed approach composed of the following elements is likely to be the most effective.

Support the modernists and mainstream secularists first, by

 publishing and distribute their works

 encouraging them to write for mass audiences and youth

 introducing their views into the curriculum of Islamic education

 giving them a public platform

 making their opinions and judgments on fundamental questions of religious interpretation available to a mass audience, in competition with those of the fundamentalists and traditionalists, who already have Web sites, publishing houses, schools, institutes, and many other vehicles for disseminating their views

 positioning modernism as a counterculture option for disaffected Islamic youth

 facilitating and encouraging awareness of pre- and non-Islamic history and culture, in the media and in the curricula of relevant countries

 encouraging and supporting secular civic and cultural institutions and programs.

Support the traditionalists against the fundamentalists, by

 publicizing traditionalist criticism of fundamentalist violence and extremism and encouraging disagreements between traditionalists and fundamentalists

 preventing alliances between traditionalists and fundamentalists

 encouraging cooperation between modernists and traditionalists who are closer to that end of the spectrum, increase the presence and profile of modernists in traditionalist institutions

 discriminating between different sectors of traditionalism

 encouraging those with a greater affinity to modernismsuch as the Hanafi law school as opposed to others to issue religious opinions that, by becoming popularized, can weaken the authority of backward Wahhabi religious rulings

 encouraging the popularity and acceptance of Sufism.

Confront and oppose the fundamentalists, by

 challenging and exposing the inaccuracies in their views on questions of Islamic interpretation

 exposing their relationships with illegal groups and activities

 publicizing the consequences of their violent acts

 demonstrating their inability to rule to the benefit and positive development of their communities

 targeting these messages especially to young people, to pious traditionalist populations, to Muslim minorities in the West, and to women

 avoiding showing respect or admiration for the violent feats of fundamentalist extremists and terrorists, instead casting them as disturbed and cowardly rather than evil heroes

 encouraging journalists to investigate issues of corruption, hypocrisy, and immorality in fundamentalist and terrorist circles.

Selectively support secularists, by

 encouraging recognition of fundamentalism as a shared enemy, discouraging secularist alliances with anti-U.S. forces on such grounds as nationalism and leftist ideology

 supporting the idea that religion and the state can be separate in Islam, too, and that this does not endanger the faith.

END OF TEXT FROM THE BOOK

Its for all Muslims to investigate, decide and follow which version of Islam, he/she wants to follow  state sponsored and state modified versions, like Western Modernist Islam, Indian Sufi Islam, Saudi Madkhali Islam, and so on..orIslam as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and as was followed by the Sahabah (ra).

(Passionate about Islam, politics and issues connected to the welfare of Muslims, DrAjmal is a Medical Practitioner and after obtaining Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance, he started the firm WealthCity, which advices on Islamic Investments for Indian Muslims. He opines through his fb page https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Md.Ajmal.)
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. On March 27 Azerbaijani Armed Forces servicemen Lieutenant Qalib Zulfigarly (b.1992) and soldier Qafarali Hajiyev (b.1997) were killed in the territory of Azerbaijani Gazakh region.

'Armenpress' reports that Azerbaijani media reports about the aforementioned citing the website of Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, which informs that the servicemen were killed on the Armenian border.

Interestingly, the news of the deaths of Azerbaijani servicemen was reported by Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry on March 28, when it became known in social networks after the funerals of Lieutenant Qalib Zulfigarly.

According to Azerbaijani media, in 2016 the loss of Azerbaijani Armed Forces and other structures of the defense system amounted to 11 servicemen and also 3 servicemen were wounded.

Armenian Defense Ministry spokesman Artsrun Hovhannisyan said that in non-working days the situation in both Armenian-Azerbaiajani and Karabakh-Azerbaijani line of contact was turbulent.

'Tension in the border area was noticed at the weekend. We can say that situation in all border villages of Tavush region was restless. As you know, 2 days ago Azerbaijani sniper wounded a civilian; another citizen's economy suffered great damage. Armenian army's actions were proportionate and response was given to all target shootings,' Armenian MOD spokesman said.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. A celebration was held on March 22 in Buenos Aires for the 25 years of Episcopate of Archbishop Kissag Mouradian, Primate of the Armenian Apostolic Church for Argentina and Chile.

Pope Francis, an old friend of the Armenian Archbishop, sent him a letter for the occasion, 'Armenpress' reports citing prensaarmenia.com.ar website.

"Dear brother," said the letter of the Pope. "On March 22 the Armenian community celebrate your 25 years of episcopate. From here I join this celebration and prayer of thanksgiving. May the Lord reward all the good you did and keep doing. I thank God for your ministry and pray that it remains fruitful. And please, I ask that you do not forget to pray for me. Please give my greetings to the beloved members of the Armenian community."

The celebration was attended by national government authorities, representatives of other Armenian churches, representatives of the Armenian Embassy in Argentina and members of the Armenian community.

Alberto Djeredjian, member of the Administrative Institution of the Armenian Church, said that Mouradian is "the backbone of our community." In turn, the Archbishop said: "I was sent to Argentina for five years, but after I fulfilled that period and having full mutual agreement, I decided to stay. I hope we continue to work together for the welfare of the Armenian Nation and the Armenian Church."
A taliban attack in a park in Lahore (Pakistan) has left al least 65 dead and 300 injured this Sunday.

The attack, claimed by a faction of the Taliban Movement of Pakistan (TTP, in its initials in Urdu), Jammat ul Ahrar, was targeted against christians who were celebrating the Easter holidays in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, according a spokesman of the group, Ehsanullah Ehsan, has explained to The Tribune Express.

"It was part of our annual martyrdom attacks we have started this year, Ehsan has afirmed. He has warned that it was a message for the Pakistan primer minister, Nawaf Sahrif.

We had been waiting for this occasion... we want to convey... to the prime minister that we we have arrived in Punjab and we will reach you", he has threatened.

Dozens of ambulances have raced to the park, while hundreds of citizens have gathered outside the hospitals to give blood, including the PM of Punjab, Shaij Zayed.

Soon after of the attack, the Government of this region has ordered the close of all the children parks and has declared three days of mourning. Next Monday the schools will be kept closed in Lahore, the most populated town in Punjab, which is located near of the border with India.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the main taliban group in the country, was set up in 2007 and has operated both in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Since its origins, it has kept in touch with the terrorist group Al Qaeda. The Pakistan authorities has struggled this sort of insurgence since 2004. The taliban have carried out several attacks to try to overthrow the Government.

Condemnations to the attack

"I'm shocked by the terrorist attack in Lahore. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims.

We will do what we can to help", the British primer minister, David Cameron, has written in his Twitter.

The Pakistani Oscar-winner and young activist who survived to an taliban attack Malala Yousafzaihas also reacted quickly: "I am devasted by the senseless killing of innocent people today in Lahore. My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends.

I condem this attack in the strongest possible terms. We stand together with the families of the victims. Pakistan and the world mus unite. Every life is precious and must be respected and protected".
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan hinders the agricultural activities of dwellers of border villages, Head of Tavush region's Berkaber village administration Arthur Madatyan noted in the interview with 'Armenpress'.

'Conditioned by Azerbaijani actions, the farmer is unable to engage in agricultural activities. Enemy fires on civillians, therefore the dwellers, based on their security, have not started agricultural activities yet, Arthur Madatyan said. According to him, Azerbaijani shootings harm the property of farmers and the economy suffers damage. The Azerbaijani side opened fire on the car of one of the residents.

In non-working days the situation in both Armenian-Azerbaiajani and Karabakh-Azerbaijani line of contact was turbulent. The enemy continued to violate the ceasefire regime. Situation in all border villages of Tavush was restless.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. Armenia welcomes Palmyra's liberation from ISIS militants by by Syrian government troops. 'Armenpress' reports that Armenian Foreign Ministry made a relevant note in its Facebook page.

We welcome the liberation of Palmyra. World Cultural heritage should be preserved,' the note reads.

The Syrian government troops and peoples militia fighters have fully liberated the ancient town of Palmyra located 215 km (133.5 miles) from Damascus, the Syrian Armys command said in a statement on March 27.





"Our troops have established full control of the town and are chasing the remainder of the retreating gangs of Islamic State terrorists," the statement said.

The Syrian troops liquidated on March 26 the terrorists stronghold in Al-Amiria, the northern district of Palmyra. The militants were pushed back from the barracks in the districts of al-Mutaqaidin and Jamiyat. The Syrian government troops also captured the local dominating height to control the road to the north to the towns of Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa on the Euphrates.

Palmyra is included in the list of UNESCO world heritage site.




The Online Railbird Report: Blom Back to Winning Ways, Kostritsyn Week's Biggest Loser

March 28 2016 Chad Holloway

This week at the high-stakes tables of PokerStars, no one did better than Daniel "w00ki3z." Cates, who won $158,326 in 3,948 hands over 32 sessions. Others who did well were Isaac "philivey2694" Haxton (+$109,358 in 7 sessions/386 hands) and Viktor "Isildur1" Blom (+$81,485 in 38 sessions/9,214 hands).

On the flip side, last week's biggest winner, Alexander "joiso" Kostritsyn, was this week's biggest loser after dropping $188,511 in 8,753 hands over 42 sessions. Meanwhile, it was also a bad week for the likes of Ben "Sauce123" Sulsky (-$128,503 in 21 sessions/1,191 hands), Dzmitry "Colisea" Urbanovich (-$127,480 in 18 sessions/2,184 hands), and Elior "Crazy Elior" Sion (-$97,409 in 28 sessions/2,913 hands).

Stern Takes Kuznetsov for $238,700 in Thursday PLO Action

On Thursday, March 17, Dani "supernova9" Stern finished the biggest winner of the day after winning $238,700 at the $100/$200 and $200/$400 pot-limit Omaha tables. According to HighStakesDB, all of his profit came after two heads-up matches against Timofey "Trueteller" Kuznetsov.

Here's a look at the two biggest pots from that match.

Hand #1: Kuznetsov ($71,006.08) raised to $1,360 from the button, Stern ($128,421.92) called, and the flop came down . Stern checked, Kuznetsov bet $2,158.50, and Stern check-raised to $7,554.75. Not to be outdone, Kuznetsov three-bet to $25,958.50 and then called off his remaining $43,846.08 after Stern had four-bet to $81,832.75.

Kuznetsov:

Stern:

Kuznetsov had flopped middle pair with a gutshot, while Stern held a flush draw with a big wrap. The two agreed to run it twice, and the on the first gave Stern half the pot with a winning straight. The turn on the second run gave Kuznetsov Broadway, but his lead was short lived as the river gave Stern a flush and the entire $149,486.91 pot.

Hand #2: Stern ($94,669.40) opened for $1,360 and then called when Kuznetsov ($64,954.60) three-bet to $4,240. Both players then checked the flop, the appeared on the turn, and Kuznetsov checked to Stern, who bet $6,478.50.

Kuznetsov check-raised to $23,800, Stern called, and the paired the board on the river. Kuznetsov moved all in for $36,914.60 and Stern called. Kuznetsov showed the for a flopped straight, but it was no good as Stern rivered a full house with the . Ship the $130,229.20 pot to Stern.

"wilhasha" Saturday's Big Winner Thanks to NLHE Action

On Saturday, March 19, "wilhasha" was at the $50/$100 no-limit hold'em tables and managed to win $99,600 after 2,254 hands over 11 hours, which was enough to make him the day's big winner.

In his biggest pot of the day, action was four-handed when "1nvoker" ($28,438.54) opened for $232 under the gun with what turned out to be the and "wilhasha" ($42,918.06) three-bet from the small blind with the . "1nvoker" made the call, the flop came down , and "wilhasha" led out for $719.25.

"1nvoker" made the call and then bet $3,005.07 after "wilhasha" checked his flush on the turn. When the peeled off on the river, "wilhasha" coyly checked and "1nvoker," who had made a set, bet $7,711.66. "wilhasha" the check-raised all in and "1nvoker" called off his remaining $15,652.22 only to see the $57,137.08 pot pushed to "wilhasha."

Blom Takes on Both Haxton and Kostritsyn

On Tuesday, March 22, Blom was busy cleaning up at both the $100/$200 PLO and $1,000/$2,000 8-game tables. According to HighStakesDB, Blom kicked things off by winning $49,000 in just 76 hands of PLO over 40 minutes from Sami "LrSlzk" Kelopuro. Not long after, he took "BERRI SWEET" for $131,000 playing the same game.

Blom then jumped to the 8-game tables where he played for 10 hours against Kostritsyn. In their first session, Blom won $105,600, and then took $67,000 in the second, which is when the second-biggest pot of the day took place.

Alex Kostritsyn

It happened when, in a round of $250/$500 PLO, Kostritsyn ($87,583.66) opened for $1,500 and then called when Blom ($152,114.34) three-bet to $4,500, which brought about a flop of . Blom bet $6,000, Kostritsyn called, and the appeared on the turn.

Blom bet again, this time $16,500, and again Kostritsyn just called. The turn saw Blom bet a hefty $53,998 and Kostritsyn called only to muck when Blom tabled the for a rivered nuts, which earned him the $161,996 pot.

The action ended up spilling over into Wednesday morning, and that's when things started to swing Kostritsyn's way. According to HighStakesDB, the Russian managed to win back $208,000 in the action.

Speaking of Wednesday, Blom did play a bit against Haxton at the $100/$200 PLO tables. The duo only played for an hour, during which time Haxton took Blom for $121,700.

In one of the more notable pots, Blom ($86,588.54) raised to $1,360 and then called when Haxton ($53,107.46) three-bet to $4,240, which brought about a flop of . Haxton led out for $8,638, Blom raised to $34,552, and Haxton moved all in for $48,867.46. Blom made the call and the cards were turned up.

Haxton:

Blom:

Blom was drawing to a flush, while Haxton held an overpair. It was run twice, but neither the on the first run nor on the second help Blom and he watched the entire $106,534.92 pot pushed to Haxton.

Biggest Winners/Losers from March 18-24

Winners Profit Losers Loss Daniel "w00ki3z." Cates $158,326 Alexander "joiso" Kostritsyn $188,511 Isaac "philivey2694" Haxton $109,358 Ben "Sauce123" Sulsky $128,503 Viktor "Isildur1" Blom $81,485 Dzmitry "Colisea" Urbanovich $127,480 Mike "gordo16" Gorodinsky $80,171 Elior "Crazy Elior" Sion $97,409

Biggest Winners/Losers of 2016

Winners Profit Losers Loss Andres "Educa-p0ker" Artinano $629,611 Alex "Kanu7" Millar $567,739 Ben "Sauce123" Sulsky $403,455 Daniel "w00ki3z." Cates $274,051 "Cobus83" $353,146 "candela2005" $263,665 Dani "supernova9" Stern $329,943 "40and7" $175,332 Mikael "ChaoRen160" Thuritz $265,432 "Aron0621" $174,722

*Lead photo courtesy of globalpokerindex.com.

Data and hands obtained from HighStakesDB.com

Get all the latest PokerNews updates on your social media outlets. Follow us on Twitter and find us on both Facebook and Google+!

Sharelines Viktor "Isildur1" Blom was back to his winning ways after banking $81,485 this week.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. Frontline shootings continue in Nagorno Karabakh Republic, gazeta.ru writes on March 28, referring to Azerbaijani side's biggest attack on NKR capital since the beginning of the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh.

'Almost 22 years ago the war was suspended but skirmishes are continuing on the contact line of the Karabakh and Azerbaijani armies,' the news agency writes adding that periodically, for example, in the late summer of 2014, it comes to the use of heavy artillery and tanks. Then follows an active international intervention - another attempt to negotiate a peace treaty. Negotiations fail and the circle closes.

'The outlines of the front line do not change totally. But the fortifications are changed, new weapons occur; the international mediators and observers are changed,' the article reads.

'Gazeta.ru' correspondent Alexander Rybin, along with officers of NKR Armed Forces, visited one of the areas of the frontline, located in the eastern direction. Officers informed the correspondent that they have the strict order of NKR Defense Minister that means not to shoot first. They make response fire only in the case when the enemy begins firing from large caliber weapons. They also told the reporter that in the second half of March, the Azerbaijani side has started using 60 and 82-millimeter mortars. Azerbaijani side used even 120-millimeter mortars and howitzers D-30. The Armenian side informs the OSCE observers about all cases of shootings.
How will the increasing use of hypofractionation (use of a fewer number of fractions) affect reimbursement and staffing in a hospital-based radiation oncology department?

From a 40% use rate of hypofractionation, a department could anticipate an annual reduction in technical revenue of $540,661 and a reduction in workflow of approximately five patients or 1 to 1.

5 operating hours per day.

We modeled the effects on reimbursement on a typical average-sized hospital-based radiation oncology department of moving to hypofractionation for the most common cancers that make up the bulk of a typical hospital-based practice using 2015 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reimbursement rates and relative value unit values.

A radiotherapy department treating 40% with hypofractionation would experience an approximate $540,663 decrease in global revenue with a per-case marginal reduction of $9,498, $4,297, $9,040, and $1,777 for lung, breast, and prostate cancers and palliative care, respectively. The reduction in relative value units would be 2,121 with a per-case marginal reduction of 20.88 for lung and prostate cancers, 10.44 for breast cancer, and 5.22 for palliative care treatment.

We modeled basing our assumptions on a Medicare fee schedule and hospital-based practice, so the marginal reduction in revenue could be greater for commercial insurances and in the setting of free-standing practices. We assumed hypofractionation for breast, prostate, and lung cancer and palliative cases only, because clinical effectiveness data in other cancers are inconclusive. We also assumed no use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy or brachytherapy for breast cancer, and no use of stereotactic radiation for prostate or lung cancer or palliative treatment, because these technologies do not have conclusive data and/or widespread use in clinical practice.

The move to hypofractionation in the United States is justified where evidence exists and offers great benefits to patients and the field of radiation oncology in general. At the same time it will lead to increased pressures on departments to address budget shortfalls resulting from the decrease in per-patient revenue. This will affect departments' ability to update or replace equipment and may encourage consolidation or centralization of departments. There may be reduced radiation technologist needs because of reduction in workflow hours per day and challenges in funding nonreimbursed but important clinical support staff. For the physician, these hypofractionated treatment programs require greater skill, time, and effort for each fraction delivered, which also requires changes in residency training (Table 1).jop;JOP.2015.007385v1/T01T1T01Table 1.Reduction in Hospital-Based Technical Billing Through Adoption of Evidence-Based Hypofractionation in Radiation Oncology ClinicHypofractionation (%)Change in Technical Revenue ($)Lung Cancer (n = 21)Breast Cancer (n = 100)Prostate Cancer (n = 75)Palliation (n = 25)1019,945.5542,969.9967,807443.272039,891.0985,939.99135,6148,886.543059,836.64128,909.99203,42113,329.804079,782.18171,879.99271,22817,773.075099,727.73214,849.99339,03522,216.3360119,673.27257,819.99406,84226,659.6070139,618.82300,789.98474,64931,102.8680159,564.36343,759.98542,45635,546.1390179,509.91386,729.98610,26339,989.40100199,455.95429,699.98678,07044,432.86Per-case marginal reduction9,4984,2979,0411,777.

Journal of oncology practice / American Society of Clinical Oncology. 2016 Mar 22 [Epub ahead of print]

Andre Konski, James B Yu, Gary Freedman, Louis B Harrison, Peter A S Johnstone, Andre Konski, James B Yu, Gary Freedman, Louis B Harrison, Peter A S Johnstone

Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL., Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Leonard Davis Institute for Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT; and Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL

PubMed http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27006359
President Xi Jinping's historic visit to the Czech Republic, starting on Monday, is expected to "renew and energize" bilateral ties, with the planned signing of more than 20 cooperative documents.

The 49-hour trip will be the first state visit by a Chinese president both to the Czech Republic and former Czechoslovakia since 1949, when the People's Republic of China was founded.

Xi is scheduled to meet Czech President Milos Zeman and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka, witness the signing of cooperative documents, attend a press conference, talk with Senate chairman Milan Stech and Chamber of Deputies Chairman Jan Hamacek, and meet with businesspeople.

The delegation will meet Zeman at the Lany chateau, west of Prague, where the two presidents together will plant a tree, according to information released by the Czech Presidential Office. Xi will be the first foreign president welcomed at the Lany chateau, the countryside residence of the Czech president.

In an article published in the Pravo daily on March 26, Xi called on joint work "to renew and energize the development of China-Czech ties and usher in a bright new era of China-Central and Eastern European countries cooperation and China-EU relations".

"As people say in China, a tree can grow tall only when its roots are strong. China and the Czech Republic should consider upgrading the bilateral relationship in due time," Xi said in the article.

The release of a joint declaration of strategic partnership will be the main result of the visit. A number of memorandums of cooperation in investment, finance, aviation and healthcare are expected to be signed. Zeman has said previously that he expected Chinese investments worth 45 billion crowns ($1.84 billion).

The declaration will include enhancement of cooperation in the sphere of finances, including the Czech Republic's interest in becoming a center for Chinese financial institutions in the region, the Czech News Agency reported.

Vaclav Klaus, former president of the Czech Republic, told China Daily that Xi's visit is "of historic meaning", which has shown both sides are serious about developing the relationship.

"Now it is for us to keep closer ties with China," he said.

In a story published on its website early this month, Radio Prague commented that the Czech Republic is "looking to finally get a bigger slice of the Chinese investment cake after long lagging behind neighbors such as Poland and Hungary".

Ma Keqing, the Chinese ambassador to the Czech Republic, said that Xi's visit will be a landmark occasion to boost relations with Central and Eastern European countries.

According to the ambassador, China is willing to deepen financial cooperation, encourage the use of each other's currencies in trade and investment, and engage in talks on the feasibility of setting up a renminbi settlement mechanism in Prague.

Contact the writers at anbaijie@chinadaily.com.cn and fujing@chinadaily.com.cn
Baidu develops AI algorithm to predict crowds, avoid stampedes Updated: 2016-03-25 11:17 (chinadaily.com.cn)

Thousands of travelers are stranded at Guangzhou Railway Station in South China's Guangdong province after rare snow in central and eastern Chinese provinces delayed train services, Feb 1, 2016. [Photo/IC]

Chinese search engine giant Baidu has developed a machine-learning algorithm that predicts whether crowds are likely to form at certain locations in two hours, which could be used to prevent stampedes.

The algorithm uses data from Baidu's map app, said a research report published by Baidu's Big Data Lab Tuesday, studying the number of map queries and the number of users in an area.

Its map app accounts for over 70 per cent of China's mapping services market, the company's user statistics show. Many Chinese users often search for an ideal travel route using Baidu Maps.

The lab began to concentrate on how to predict crowds in certain areas following the Shanghai stampede on New Year's Eve in Dec 2014, where 36 people were killed during celebrations on the Bund riverfront, according to Wu Haishan, co-author of the report.

Using the map data, they found a way to determine the numbers in real time and trigger warnings 30 minutes to two hours ahead of time if unusually large crowds are expected to gather. This occurs when the number of queries for a specific location crosses a set threshold.

Machine learning is applied so that the algorithm can learn from search queries and better predict future crowds.

Wu said that the algorithm could be used by local governments, authorities and even venue operators to monitor crowds.

It may eventually provide the function as a public service feature on Baidu Maps, according to Wu. If implemented, the feature would allow users to see what the crowds are like in various locations using the app.
Chinese aircraft manufacturer uses big data to build safer planes Updated: 2016-03-26 15:58 (Xinhua)

LOS ANGELES -- With a global focus on how to reduce safety risks caused by anomalous human behavior and how to fully recover data crucial for analyzing an air crash, a Chinese aircraft manufacturer is using big data and cloud technology to build safer airplanes.

"The time for revolution in aviation safety has come," Wei Ye, executive director and president of the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) America Corporation told Xinhua on Friday.

The Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety of France (BEA) recently confirmed that the crash of a plane of German budget airline Germanwings a year ago was caused deliberately by its co-pilot, who had been suffering from depression.

The Airbus 320 crashed in southern France on March 24, 2015, while en route from Barcelona to Duesseldorf, killing 150 people on board.

To minimize such risks caused by human factors, COMAC America Corporation is studying the concept of "unmanned flight with human supervision" using a big data-based computer, which operates in an entirely closed environment without influence from outside.

"Without the influence of pilots' 'emotions' and mishandling, a computer-piloted plane is safer than a manned one," Ye said.

In a computer-piloted plane, a hard-drive with big data, which include flight routes, weather information, emergency processing programs, and flight data of 200 pilots accumulated in 20 years, might become the "pilot" in the future; human pilots will only need to insert the hard-drive into the cockpit and monitor the flight in a separate compartment.

This concept could become a future trend in civil aviation and might be tested on unmanned cargo flights first, according to the company.

Meanwhile, the company is conducting research and development on improving the ability to trace a flying plane.

It will be difficult to analyze a plane crash, locate the crash site and conduct a rescue in a timely manner if the plane's "black box" goes missing.

Take flight MH370 for instance. Malaysian officials said recently the two pieces of debris found in Mozambique were consistent with parts on a Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777, and hence almost certainly were from the missing flight MH370. Yet the missing black box still makes the accident that happened two years ago one of the most perplexing crashes in the history of modern civil aviation.

In December 2015, the European Union announced new requirements for closer tracking of an aircraft in the sky and improved traceability of the black box aboard.

In this aspect, the Chinese aircraft manufacturer is capitalizing on a latecomer advantage.

COMAC is carrying out research and development of a comprehensive emergency recording and tracking system called "Harbinger," which it started two years ago as a complement to the black box system.

The "Harbinger" will be ejected from the tail of a plane when it is about to crash, takes away the flight data in the black box and records the last few minutes of the crash. It can transmit data to a satellite shortly after the ejection while keeping a backup of the data.

Equipped with a soft-landing system, "Harbinger" can protect itself from landing on the sea or land. It will send signals for people to locate it after its landing.

The project has applied for patent in both the United States and several other countries and testing pieces have been manufactured.

The company is also partnering with FTS Technologies Inc., a California-based Internet connectivity turnkey solution provider, to develop new functions in rapid wireless data transmission.

Besides, experts at the company are studying "smart life health management" of aircraft to enhance an aircraft's "self-awareness" of its life.

Different from traditional fatigue tests, this study aims to calculate the service life of the large-scale complex system of an airplane through a special algorithm so that safety data of the system can be obtained before takeoff.

COMAC America Corporation is also building an online aviation consulting platform to connect global engineering resources. The platform is set to launch in the second half of this year.

"This platform is expected to transform the traditional model of research, development and technical services," Ye said.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. The Pechersk district court of Kiev has seized on March 3 11 bank accounts in 3 jars which are opened by the companies belonging to Alexander Yanukovych.

It is stated in definitions of court of March 3, published in the Unified state registry of judgments, transfer ' novin', 'Armenpress' reports.

In particular, arrests have been imposed accounts of the companies Mako Holding , Mako Aktiv , Bilding of Investmens of Groups. The court has imposed arrests 4 bank accounts of ING Bank NV (Netherlands), into 5 accounts in Ukrbusinessbank and into 2 accounts in All-Ukrainian development bank (the last 2 - liquidated). The size of money which are on the specified accounts in texts of definitions aren't specified.

During pre-judicial investigation it is established that Alexander Yanukovych during 2013 with assistance of the father - the former president of Ukraine and other persons from among the top management of the country has organized the criminal scheme after assistance to the enterprises of the companies of Mako group belonging to him in illegal minimization of the tax obligations which are subject to payment in the budget and also in a taking these budgetary funds.

The specified illegal actions of Yanukovych - younger and groups of unidentified persons have led to the actual not revenues in the state budget of money for the total amount of 42,598 million hryvnias.

It is known that earlier ex-the Minister of Justice of Ukraine Elena Lukash has declared, that the court of the EU has allegedly obliged Ukrainuvozmestit claim expenses in the sum of 6 million 378,4 thousand UAH ex-to the president Victor Yanukovych and two of his sonsTo Alexander and Victor (late), in business on the appeal of the property sanctions imposed against them by the European Union. Later in the Ministry of justices have declared that any judgments of the EU about collecting in favor of ex-the president Victor Yanukovych and his environment from Ukraine doesn't exist in the nature.

The sanctions list of the EU includes the former president of Ukraine Victor Yanukovych and his eldest son Alexander Yanukovych. The younger son ex-the president, Victor who has died in 2015 has been excluded from black list.

We will remind, earlier ex-the Deputy Attorney-General of Ukraine Vitaly Kasko declared that a consequence even nearly two years later it isn't ready to return to Ukraine the money stolen Family Yanukovych.
Beijing will sign a sister-city agreement with Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, to boost cooperation in areas such as culture, healthcare, education, tourism and sports.

The Foreign Affairs Office of Beijing said on Thursday that Mayor Wang Anshun will sign the agreement in the Czech capital with his counterpart Adriana Krnacova later this month. The Prague Assembly last month approved the signing of a partnership agreement with Beijing by a majority of 35 votes in the 65-member assembly, even though opposition parties disagreed, the Czech news agency, eske Noviny reported.

Krnacova said that both cities will organize various types of exchanges and cooperation aimed to ensure mutual development and prosperity under the principles of reciprocity and mutual contribution.

Beijing, with a growing presence as a center for international exchanges, has 50 sister cities in 45 countries, according to Zhao Huimin, the office's director.

More than 285,000 Chinese tourists visited the Czech Republic last year, an increase of more than 10 percent year-on-year. The Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development will help Prague review Chinese-language promotion materials for the city and make logos in Mandarin for tourism sites in Prague, according to the office.

The two capitals started official exchanges in 1956 and have achieved progress in bilateral trade and cooperation in healthcare, cultural exchanges and tourism promotion since 2014 when Czech Foreign Minister Lubomir Zaoralek visited China.

Recent years have seen ties growing deeper. Over the past two years, Beijing dispatched two high-ranking delegations of officials and entrepreneurs to attend the China Investment Forum in Prague and in December 2015, the Beijing Tongrentang Group Co Ltd opened a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Prague.

In October 2014, Karel Pech, chairman and founder of the Czech-Chinese Friendship Association, visited a pharmacy owned by Tongrentang Group in downtown Beijing and saw first-hand how TCM doctors treated patients.

Dr. MAX, one of the largest pharmacy chains in Central Europe, has more than 500 pharmacies serving 130,000 customers daily. The company signed a cooperation agreement with Tongrentang in December 2014, according to the Beijing People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. One year later, the clinic was established.

The association said the Czech Republic views TCM favorably and agreed to reimburse payments for TCM treatments in the country in line with its medical insurance.
Nations to 'blaze trail through synergy' Updated: 2016-03-28 07:53 By Fu Jing in Prague(China Daily USA)

Chinese ambassador says Xi's Prague trip will be a landmark moment in China-Europe relations

President Xi Jinping's visit to the Czech Republic is of both "strategic and pragmatic" significance, as it is designed to boost political trust and synergize their agendas and economic priorities, according to the Chinese ambassador.

"Based on my understanding of the status of bilateral relations and the detailed arrangements for Xi's visit, it will be a trailblazing event for both sides," said Ma Keqing in an exclusive interview with China Daily.

The Czech Republic is the only country Xi will visit before he attends the World Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, DC. Czech President Milos Zeman visited China in September and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka visited in November.

Ma said that, in the past two years, relations have been "accelerating" with more frequent high-level dialogues, unprecedented trade and investment, and growing people-to-people exchanges.

"Our relations are in the best period ever," she said in Prague.

Xi's visit to the Czech Republic is the first by a Chinese president since the two sides established diplomatic ties, as well as his first trip to Central and Eastern Europe since taking office in 2013.

"This visit has attracted a lot of attention," Ma said. "It will become a landmark visit to boost relations with Central and Eastern Europe."

She said the visit aims to boost pragmatic cooperation by seeking synergies in each other's megaprojects to implement China's Belt and Road Initiative.

"The Czechs have responded actively to echo President Xi's Belt and Road Initiative to boost connectivity. They have treated it as a chance to take on China's train of development and further stimulate its economy."

In November, when Sobotka visited Beijing, both countries signed an agreement to cooperate on the initiative. It is expected that both countries will devise an action plan to further deepen cooperation in this regard during Xi's visit.

Following on from Pakistan, Indonesia, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Hungary, Poland and other countries, the Czech Republic is expected to become a new forerunner in the Belt and Road Initiative, which Xi proposed three years ago. Official figures show more than 70 countries have agreed to join this initiative, and more than 30 countries have signed cooperation agreements.

"The Czech Republic is a European power in terms of manufacturing and industry, and there is great potential for both sides to work together to improve connectivity," Ma said.

The country has also proposed making Prague China's financial center for Central and Eastern Europe, which the ambassador said has been welcomed. She added that China is also willing to discuss the feasibility of setting up a renminbi settlement mechanism in the Czech capital.

"Such a mechanism is necessary as trade and investment between China and countries in Central and Eastern Europe are growing rapidly," she said.

Ma said she is confident both countries will deepen cooperation in various areas because there is a strong political will, vision and courage.

"The people in both countries have already boosted mutual understanding. A recent poll shows more than 70 percent of Czechs support further development of the bilateral relationship."

fujing@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily USA 03/28/2016 page3)
New ship to assist deep-sea exploration Updated: 2016-03-28 14:41 By Peng Yining(China Daily USA)

China on Thursday launched the country's first ship specifically designed for carrying deep submersibles, according to Shanghai Ocean University.

The ship, Zhang Jian, named after the founder of the university, is 97 meters long and 17.8 meters wide. It is designed to carry 60 people and has a 15,000-nautical mile range, according to a report on the university's website.

Its first scientific expedition is planned for August in the New Britain Trench off Papua New Guinea.

The ship will control Rainbow Fish, China's first 11,000-meter robotic submersible, to try to get 8,000 meters under the surface, said Cui Weicheng of the Hadal Science and Technology Research Center at Shanghai Ocean University.

Cui said the robotic submersible had been tested down to 4,000 meters underwater. If the test in New Britain Trench succeeds, Zhang Jian will take the Rainbow Fish for another dive to 11,000 meters in the Mariana Trench by the end of 2016.

His research center has been working on a new manned submersible that will hopefully be able to take people down to 11,000 meters by 2020.

The current Chinese manned diving record was made by Jiaolong, which reached 7,062 meters in the Mariana Trench in June 2012.

Over the next five years, Chinese scientists plan to build one manned and one unmanned submersible, each of which can reach depths of 11,000 meters.

Cui said Zhang Jian and Rainbow Fish are not included in the government's 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) as they are supported by private investment.

"Zhang Jian is China's first scientific research ship that was totally financed by the private sector," Cui said, adding that compared with applying for official finance support, cooperating with the private sectors has shortened the process by four to five years.

"The government and society in China are paying close attention to maritime research more than ever before," he said. "The golden period for deep-sea technology and exploration has come."

pengyining@chinadaily.com.cn

Zhang Jian, China's first privately funded scientific research ship, is launched in Wenling, Zhejiang province, on Thursday. Xu Congjun / for China Daily

(China Daily USA 03/28/2016 page5)
Brand takes visual route to promote green agenda Updated: 2016-03-28 14:49 By Sun Yuanqing(China Daily USA)

It's not the first time that luxury has been aligned with environmental causes, but probably the first time through a visual and emotional feast.

Swiss luxury watchmaker Omega recently held in Beijing a special screening of the documentary Terra, in collaboration with GoodPlanet Foundation, a Paris-based NGO that supports sustainability.

The 90-minute movie traces the natural history of the Earth and human beings, shedding light on how human activities have affected the planet and other living species.

Michael Pitiot, who directed the movie with renowned photographer and environmentalist Yann Arthus-Bertrand, attended the screening.

Pitiot says that he hopes Terra will raise the public's environmental awareness and encourage people to take responsibility to protect the Earth.

"The film is not about something that is far from us. It is about us, our history and the connection between humans and nature. As things are a little bad, we all need to be committed to the change," he says.

The movie took two years to make and features more than 20 countries including the rain forest in Venezuela, Botswana, Russia and China.

The director also worked with Li Gang, a renowned Chinese photographer who is best known for his shots of horses in the snow the Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

Pitiot recalls that they had to shoot with helicopters in Siberia. When in the rain forest in Venezuela, they set up a camp and stayed there for a week for the light to improve.

Aside from overall consideration for all living species, Pitiot calls for more awareness about small animals and plants.

"Conservation is mostly dedicated to big animals, symbolic ones like tigers ... We are forgetting about the rest, which might be more strategic for everybody. Many small, basic elements of life are dying because of chemical pollution and the changes on the ground. This is more dangerous. So we are engaged in something very tricky."

Making the movie has also transformed Pitiot's eating habits. He now eats less meat. He jokingly says that he has also stopped attacking spiders in his house as he used to.

"It's a small thing. But if 7 billion human do the same, that could change a lot of things. Small stories like this change the world."

The movie is the second documentary project between Omega and GoodPlanet, after the award-winning documentary Planet Ocean in 2012, which focuses on the marine world.

"What impresses me most is the freedom we had, which is something very valuable today. It's very rare to have partners who are able to understand that if something has to happen, everybody has to respect each one's expertise. Our relationship is based on trust and freedom," says Pitiot.

A company should go beyond its products and share its vision, as well as offer monetary support, with the rest of the world, says Jean-Pascal Perret, vice-president of communication and public relations of Omega.

"Many people think that when you share, it comes with a cost. In fact, sharing makes you richer. This experience has made me richer on a personal level, but also the company. So open your eyes and ears and especially your heart while watching this movie," he says.

Omega released its Seamaster Aqua Terra "Good Planet" collection in 2015. Part of proceeds from the sales will support an environmental project in Botswana.

sunyuanqing@chinadaily.com.cn

Pictures taken by Yann ArthusBertrand, a director of Terra, while shooting the documentary. Photos Provided To China Daily

(China Daily USA 03/28/2016 page7)
American airports and the growth of their international traffic made headlines last week. A new report from the International Trade Administration (ITA) indicated that last year San Francisco International Airport (SFO) had the highest rate of international visitors of any American gateway.

ITA data showed that approximately 209 million passengers traveled to and from the US in 2015. Among them, traffic between the US and China increased by 25 percent.

SFO witnessed a 9 percent increase in international travelers, overshadowing other major gateway airports such as New Yorks JFK, Chicagos OHare, and Miami and Los Angeles international.

SFO director John Martin said that the international traffic growth highlights the success of our efforts, which include improved facilities, a keen eye on cost control, and an unwavering commitment to the guest experience.

The airport has a 10-year capital facelift plan that includes terminal renovations, new amenities and a new hotel. Some high-end restaurants recently signed lease agreements to start operations in SFO international terminals.

Last year, SFO added several new airlines and launched new international flights, including daily direct flights to Guangzhou, capital city of Guangdong province, in June by China Southern Airlines, the third-largest airline in the world by passenger volume.

In 2014, SFO became the first American airport with a Chinese-language website featuring real-time tracking of arrivals and departures, information about shopping, restaurants, services and public transportation around the Bay Area.

International visits to the Bay Area have increased by 21 percent in the past four years, and the number of visitors is expected to grow another 19 percent in the next two years. The influx of international visitors has bolstered the local economy, especially the tourism and service industries.

The largest industry category in San Francisco, tourism creates and retains 87,000 jobs, according to the San Francisco Travel Association. Chinese visitors are leading the market by spending roughly $813 million in 2015, dwarfing their counterparts from any other foreign countries in San Francisco.

Chinese tourism in America seems to be booming. I think that tourism from China is increasing at tremendous rates, said San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee. Its keeping our Chinese Consulate very busy, our US Embassy very busy in processing visas. Chinese visitors are not coming in by the ones and twos; theyre coming in groups of 20, 50, and 100 at a time.

California tourism agencies are making continuous and consistent efforts to help industry practitioners and businesses better serve Chinese visitors to the Golden State. Visit California, the states tourism association, and SFTravel have sponsored a series of seminars called China Ready to help business understand the Chinese culture and consumption habits of Chinese visitors.

To recruit Mandarin-speaking staff and offer Chinese cuisine and amenities (such as hot water for tea) that Chinese visitors are accustomed to, tourism industry workers in San Francisco need to keep learning, said Antonette Eckert, director of international tourism for the Asia-Pacific market at the San Francisco Travel Association, which recently launched websites in traditional and simplified Chinese in partnership with Brand USA.

Helen Han, who owns a travel agency in San Francisco, said she always asks her employees to show respect to the elderly and take good care of the minors in a tourist groups, as this is part of the Chinese culture, and it can quickly help build a rapport with the group.

Contact the writer at junechang@chinadailyusa.com.
It is not unusual for senior US officials to throw jabs at China in their public speeches while traveling abroad.

President Barack Obama and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton did that when they visited Africa years ago. It happened at a time when a rising China was quickly becoming Africa's largest trade partner and investor, especially in infrastructure, an area increasingly ignored by Western nations.

When Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel visited Germany and spoke at the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin on March 22, he followed the same pattern - criticizing China without any self-criticism.

He pointed finger at China's human rights, laws and regulations on cyberspace, banking, counterterrorism and NGO management.

It is true that as a developing nation, China has a lot of room for improvement. But the world's only superpower has a lot of soul searching to do too, and it does not seem proper for senior US officials to use megaphone diplomacy against China. Chinese officials have refrained from that while traveling abroad, although they have plenty of ammunition.

For example, the rampant US drone strikes in some Mideast, South Asia and North Africa nations have not only constituted violations of sovereignty, they have killed many civilians, including women and children.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported last September that US drone strikes may have killed as many as 40 Yemeni civilians from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015. The number is much higher if counted from 2002, when the US started drone strikes in Yemen.

While US news media continued to cover the San Bernardino, California shootings in December 2015, when 14 people were killed in a terrorist attack, few mainstream networks have devoted time to the civilian deaths caused by US drone strikes, let alone the stories of the Yemeni civilians.

The same is true for cybersecurity. The students at the Hertie School of Governance, who are from various countries, may well remember how the National Security Agency (NSA) has operated above the law to conduct surveillance and spying activities against other nations, corporations and government leaders.

On March 25, Democracy Now talked about how the Pentagon funded and used a Colorado-based Christian NGO as a front to spy in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

Russel criticized China's actions in the South China Sea. He talked lightly, however, when mentioning the land reclamations, military facilities and airstrips built by other nations before China's.

"This was not a good thing," Russel said, without explaining why the US remained dead quiet over the years and decades when other nations, some of which are US treaty allies, took those actions. It's just like when he was not bothered to mention publicly the gross human rights violations by some close US allies.

Russel repeated the US stance of not taking sides in the South China Sea sovereignty issues. But anyone who listened to or read his speech wouldn't be fooled. He sounded like a judge when arguing for the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, a treaty the US has not even ratified.

He did not say that China made the Article 298 declaration 10 years ago not to accept mandatory arbitration.

Wang Yingfan, former permanent representative to the UN, in a speech last week called on the US to exercise restraint, saying, "If you do too much, China has to react."

Russel accused China of coercion and disrespecting international laws, saying "the United States accepts limits".

If the rampant drone strikes, the frequent military surveillance along the Chinese coast, the regime change in Libya and the NSA activities as revealed by Snowden are examples of accepting limits, then Russel has to define what not accepting limits is.

Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com
Chinese firms could gain by US bankruptcy laws Updated: 2016-03-28 10:48 By Paul Welitzkin in New York(China Daily USA)

Chinese companies are reluctant to become involved in US bankruptcy cases even if it means a financial loss due mainly to legal and language misunderstandings, according to a panel of professionals.

"Every time a US company goes bankrupt, there is usually a Chinese manufacturer that made the product the company sold," noted Drew Bernstein, a co-managing partner with the accounting firm of Marcum Bernstein & Pinchuk in New York. Bernstein has been involved in bankruptcy cases in the mainland and the US.

Yet most Chinese companies are not a part of the bankruptcy process, Bernstein told a panel discussion on March 24 sponsored by the St. John's University School of Law and the Chinese Business Lawyers Association in New York.

In addition to getting paid for products and services that have already been provided, Chinese companies may be missing out on good business deals in the bankruptcy process.

Language barriers are a major reason why many Chinese companies fail to pursue what rightfully belongs to them in a US bankruptcy. "The notices are in English and many (of the Chinese companies) don't understand the advantage of participating," said Bernstein.

The American bankruptcy process "rewards those who are vigilant and persistent", said Jeffrey Prol of Lowenstein Sandler LLP, a New York-based corporate law firm.

Prol said many Chinese companies are not aware that they can file a one-page form that could help determine whether they are an unsecured or secured creditor, which is an important distinction in US bankruptcies in deciding on payment priority.

Another reason for the low participation rate of Chinese companies is the lack of familiarity with the bankruptcy concept. The bankruptcy concept dates back to the early 1990s in China. Bankruptcy laws were approved in 2006 and took effect in 2007, said John Du of the Jun He law office.

China's bankruptcy law is modeled after the US system and covers reorganization and liquidation, said Du.

"However, there haven't been that many cases filed in China because it is not a litigious society," Du said. In the US there more than 1 million bankruptcy cases are filed in a year; in China it is about 10,000, he added.

China's bankruptcy law features a reconciliation segment in which the debtor takes a more active role in the negotiations, said Du.

paulwelitzkin@chinadailyusa.com
Chinese community mixed on data bill Updated: 2016-03-28 10:48 By Lia Zhu in San Francisco(China Daily USA)

A California data-disaggregation bill has caused a backlash among some Chinese Americans in the San Francisco Bay Area for fear that Chinese college admission rates would be harmed.

But supporters say the law is critical for policymakers to address disparities among Asian-American subgroups based on accurate disaggregated data.

Assembly Bill 1726, the Accounting for Health and Education in API (Asia Pacific Islanders) Demographics Act, calls for data to be collected for enrollment and graduation rates, disease rates, health insurance coverage, birth, and death rates so as to respond to their unique needs.

It was passed last week by the Education Committee and awaits approval by the Health Committee.

"We believe it is more focused on education so they have data supporting the affirmative action and make preferential policies in college admission for some Asian-American subgroups, like Malaysians and Cambodians," said Kai Zhu, a Chinese-American attorney based in the Bay Area. "Therefore, the Chinese Americans, Indian Americans or Korean Americans, those so called 'over-represented' groups, will become a target".

"We should promote meritocracy. Any race-based preferential policy is not only unreasonable but also unconstitutional," he added.

Zhu and dozens of other members of the Chinese community rallied on March 25 outside the Cupertino office of Evan Low, a Chinese-American assemblyman on the education committee who voted for the bill, to protest against AB 1726.

Low did not appear at his office. Jason Baker, Low's district director, refused to comment or disclose his whereabouts, citing "security reasons".

David Chiu and Phil Ting, the two other Chinese-American Assembly members who sponsored the bill, both declined to comment.

Chinese for Affirmative Action (CAA), a San Francisco-based group, said in a statement on March 25: "It is legally and factually inaccurate to conflate AB 1726 with any issues related to college admissions criteria."

AB 1726 is a critically needed effort to unmask Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities as a monolithic whole, because certain subgroups' needs and challenges are otherwise hidden, said CAA.

"For example, certain AAPI subgroups are more susceptible to certain health risks and more accurate data is desperately needed," the statement reads. "The most dramatic increase in uterine cancer has been among Chinese women, while Korean men and women have some of the highest incidences of colorectal cancer rates."

"In education, we make decisions every day to help students learn," Michael Chang, vice-president of the Santa Clara County Board of Education said in the statement. "Having detailed, disaggregated information allows us to focus teaching and support services to meet the different needs of different populations."

California is home to the nation's largest Asian-American community and second-largest Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) community - one in seven Californians are either Asian American or NHPI. They are growing three times faster than the state's overall population growth rate, according to a 2015 report by the Campaign for College Opportunity.

The report on the state of higher education among Asian Americans and AHPI pointed out wide disparities in college-degree attainment, enrollment in four-year universities, and graduation rates across the community.

There is a 40-percentage-point difference between Chinese who complete at the highest graduation rate of 73 percent, and Samoans, who have the lowest completion rate at 29 percent.

The report asserts that looking at Asian Americans and NHPI as one monolithic group is problematic as it can lead to inaccurate assumptions that AA or NHPI are doing well in terms of educational attainment, and therefore little to no policy or institutional interventions are necessary.

"Every kid deserves access to a quality education, particularly among low-income and immigrant families," Kansen Chu, a Chinese-American assembly member, told China Daily. "We must ensure that education funding is available for those with the greatest need. The future of our society belongs to our children and helping our society means helping our kids."

liazhu@chinadailyusa.com
Suicide bomber targeting Christians kills 65 in Pakistan park Updated: 2016-03-28 03:39 (Agencies)

Men mourn the death of their relatives after a blast outside a public park in Lahore, Pakistan, March 27, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD, Pakistan - A suicide bomber killed at least 65 people, mostly women and children, at a park in Lahore on Sunday in an attack claimed by a Pakistani Taliban faction which said it had targeted Christians.

More than 300 other people were wounded, officials said.

The explosion occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park close to children's swings. The park is a popular site for members of Lahore's Christian community, many of whom had gone there to celebrate the Easter weekend holiday.

Witnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled after the blast.

"When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air," said Hasan Imran, 30, a resident who had gone to Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for a walk.

Officials said 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. Police Superintendant Mustansar Feroz said most of the casualities were women and children.

The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack.

Islamist militants in Pakistan have attacked Christians and other religious minorities often over the past decade.
The landlocked Czech Republic is determined to seize the opportunity of President Xi Jinping's visit to better connect with the Eurasian continent by embedding into China's Belt and Road Initiative and boosting trade flows, investment activities and infrastructure connections, politicians and businesses leaders said on the eve of the visit.

It is likely that the Czech Republic is on the way to becoming one of the forerunners signing up to Beijing's proposal following the UK, France, Poland, Hungary, Greece, Egypt, Russia and Pakistan.

Xi is scheduled to visit the Czech Republic from March 28 to 30 before flying to Washington to attend the global Nuclear Security Summit.

Jaroslav Tvrdik, a former Czech defense minister who is now a special adviser to the Czech leadership, said both sides are prepared to deliver an action plan on the Belt and Road Initiative to follow up on the memorandum of understanding signed last year.

Tvrdik said his country enjoys the geographic advantage of being a gateway to Europe, and in cooperating with China, his country aims to turn Prague into a financial, aviation and cargo center.

Chinese Ambassador to the Czech Republic Ma Keqing also said the visit aims to boost pragmatic cooperation between the two countries by jointly seeking synergies from each other's mega projects by implementing the Belt and Road Initiative.

In recent years, Chinese companies have shown great interest in the country. China's investment in the Czech Republic reached $1.6 billion at the end of last year; and $1.8 billion in the other direction.

China Energy Co Ltd, headquartered in Shanghai, is a latecomer but has developed rapidly by investing in energy, financial and aviation sectors as well in media.

"We appreciate the unique geographic advantages of the country and we are sure that businesses could explore more opportunities in turning the Belt and Road Initiative into action," said Ye Jianming, president of China Energy. The company expects to sign several contracts during Xi's visit.

Chinese TV maker Changhong set up a factory in the Czech Republic 10 years ago, and last year output reached 1 million units.

Lian Yongping, general manager in charge of Changhong's European operations, said his company has an ambitious expansion plan.

The company has decided to set up a research and development center next to the factory and at the same time, it will also shift production lines for refrigerators, washing machines and other appliances to Europe.

The company will set up its own logistics center, and expand business to sales, after-sales services and maintenance, which are more profitable than manufacturing.

The company is trying to attract Chinese investors to help construct a high-tech industrial zone in Nymburk, where Changhong is based.

Jiri Paroubek, former Czech prime minister, said his country should make greater efforts to find synergies with China's One Belt and One Road Initiative and admitted that it is a mistake that the Czech Republic did not become a founding member of the Asian Infrastructural Investment Bank.

"I hope we can do something in this regard to catch up," he says.

Paroubek also said both sides should consider collaborating on on building a high-speed railway in his country and improving logistics delivery.

President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative is basically a peace project, said Jan Kohout, an adviser to Czech President Milos Zeman on Chinese matters.

"It is a solution for the world to walk out of wars and conflicts and bring about prosperity. It is not only about business but focuses on bringing people closer, leading to better communication and cooperation."
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS Police arrested 15 people including three brothers of the suspected suicide bomber who killed at least 70 people at a park in Lahore, 'Armenpress' reports citing Pakistan Today website.

The bomber has been identified as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of district Muzzafargarhs Fatah Suhrani area. The three brothers were taken into custody during a raid conducted by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) of police.

According to preliminary investigation, the bomber had been teaching at a seminary for eight years in Lahore after completing his religious education in Dera Ghazi Khan.

The blast occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, just outside the exit gate and a few metres away from childrens swings.

Eyewitnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled. The park was particularly busy on Sunday evening due to the Easter holiday weekend.

Soon after the attack, the Punjab government ordered all public parks to be closed and announced three days of mourning in the province.

Punjab has traditionally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan.
One's a panda that for many typifies China, the other's a mole that has delighted Czechs and a eastern Europeans for decades.

Now, thanks to the efforts of the Little Mole's "family" in the Czech Republic and Chinese Central Television, the two will join forces in a new animated cartoon series that looks set to delight audiences in Europe and more importantly, China.

The partnership can also be seen as visual confirmation of the intent behind the upcoming state visit by President Xi Jinping, the first by a Chinese president since diplomatic relations were established 47 years ago.

The series, to be known as The Little Mole and Panda, is in the final stages of production and will start to air in China from March 28, a senior CCTV executive told China Daily.

Weijing Zeng, the state broadcaster's director of animation, told China Daily the 52 episodes would be aired on CCTV's Children's Channel 14 from 7 p.m. weekly, with two 12 minute episodes per transmission.

The joint venture starts broadcasting as President Xi starts a two-day state visit to the Czech Republic, which officials say is aimed at enhancing relations between the two states in trade, sporting and cultural levels.

The Little Mole, Krtek in Czech, was the brainchild of Zdenek Miler, animator who first introduced the small black-and-white creature with the red nose 60 years ago. The cartoon series, famous for its simplicity, became a hit throughout eastern Europe and France.

CCTV first showed the original Little Mole series in China in the 1980s, and it rapidly gained a big following among children. In 2011, it was repeated, and many children and their parents loved it because of its educational content and simple style, unlike more flashy productions from the US.

In the old series, the Little Mole had a series of adventures which became a showcase for Czech animation, and there are hopes that the new China-Czech series, in which the Mole is joined by a Panda companion, will do the same job for both countries.

Panda in Chinese is xiongmao, or bear cat.

Most of the action, apart from the first episode where the pair meet, takes place against a backdrop of various places in China.

Unlike the original Little Mole series, the new version will include dialogue, in Chinese.

"We decided to include dialogue to make it more attractive for children today. The 26 episodes are now finished. Everything, including pre-and-post production work, was done in China. It is now in Prague to have the voice-overs done,'' said Weijing Zeng.

Chen Chao, 33, a Beijing-based porcelain artist, was impressed by the unique artistic style of the original when he watched the animation program during the 1980s.

"It was like a combination of paper cut and collage, and the subject dealt with the impact of human life on animal life, which in today's view, related to environmental protection, '' he said.

He is curious to see whether there is a change in artistic style and is looking forward to new stories and metaphors in the new panda and mole animation.

Lucie Bradacova-Gomezova, a property manager and translator, told China Daily that she prefers the Little Mole over American cartoons such as Tom and Jerry, which tend to be more violent, whereas the Little Mole is seen as gentle and adorable.

"I remember watching him as a small girl on a black-and-white TV when communist Czechoslovakia only had two channels. Now my kids love to watch it on DVD. It really still stands the test of time,'' she said.

Zdenek Miler, died in 2011, and the rights are now owned by his granddaughter Karolina Miler, who still works from her grandfather's old studio in the suburbs of Prague.

She took an active role in the creation of the new series, which was agreed with CCTV a year ago.

"I am very glad to be a part of the animated series, The Panda and Little Mole, because I know Chinese people are very familiar with The Little Mole and have deep feelings for it. I also need the cooperation to carry forward my grandfather's work,'' she said.

The studio in Prague has been kept just the way Miler left it after he stopped making animated films in 2001, and has now been christened The Little Mole to promote her grandfather's animation work.
Hiking wall for Tourism Year Updated: 2016-03-28 10:48 By Su Zhou in Chengde, Heibei(China Daily USA)

Two US tourists pose as they scale the Great Wall's Jinshanling section in Hebei province on March 25. They are among 1,000 US travelers who hiked the Great Wall on March 25 to mark the China-US Tourism Year. Zhao Wei / for China Daily

To celebrate the China-US Tourism Year, 1,000 tourists from the United States hiked on Friday on the Great Wall's Jinshanling section in Hebei province - one of the best-preserved sections of the wall.

Patricia Carmen, 74, from New York City, said it was her first trip to the Great Wall, as well as to China.

"The trip was amazing, even though I couldn't complete the climb and reach the top of the wall," said Carmen. "I am still happy to be here."

Carmen said she and the other members of her group would stay for two weeks and visit Xi'an, Shaanxi province, as well as Shanghai.

This year was set as China-US Tourism Year during President Xi Jinping's visit to the US in September. It aims to increase travel and tourism between the countries by enhancing the travel experience, increasing travelers' cultural understanding and expanding the appreciation of natural landscapes.

"In 2015, total bilateral visits surpassed 4.75 million. We hope the number will surpass 5 million this year," said Li Shihong, deputy director of the China National Tourism Administration.

"As a wonder of human civilization, the Great Wall has a strong appeal to US tourists. Visiting the Great Wall is a dream of many Americans," added Li. "When talking about China, many US tourists might think about chopsticks, giant pandas, the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. But China is more than these cultural symbols."

Li said he hopes more people in the US will get to know the real China and Chinese people.

Besides hiking on the Great Wall, other major events scheduled for this special tourism year include a promotion titled "Beautiful China-Maritime Silk Road", a high-level China-US dialogue on tourism to be held in Northwest China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region, and a grand closing ceremony at the end of the year.

Another of the US tourists, Luca Berrone of Urbandale, Iowa, said that to attract more US tourists to China, events like the Great Wall hike are fundamental.

"Discovering different areas and lifestyles of the Chinese is really fascinating," said Berrone, the head of SACMI USA, a subsidiary of an Italian manufacturing company. "Americans would like to find more areas outside of the standard tourism spots" to visit.

suzhou@chinadaily.com.cn
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YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani discussed successful actions of the Syrian army which, with the backing from the Russia air group, has managed to drive Islamic State militants from the ancient city of Palmyra, the Kremlin press service said on March 28, 'Armenpress'eports citing TASS.

"The two presidents discussed in detail Syria-related problems following successful actions of the Syrian army which, with the backing from the Russian air group, has driven Islamic State extremists from the ancient city of Palmyra, the treasure-house of the world culture," the press service said. "The sides agreed that it is a really milestone event, including in the context of further anti-terrorist efforts in Syria."

The two presidents also exchanged views on current issues of the bilateral agenda. "They agreed to enliven contacts at various levels," the press service said.

The Syrian army said on Sunday that it liberated the ancient city of Palmyra, a UNESCO world heritage site, with support from the Russian air group.

Palmyra, an ancient city in Syrias Homs province, was seized by gunmen of the Islamic State (a terrorist organization outlawed in Russia) in early summer 2015. The Syrian authorities said back then that Palmyra with its monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world standing at the crossroads of several civilizations, could share the miserable fate of Iraqs ancient cities of Assur, Nimrud and Hatra that were destroyed by Islamic State militants.
YEREVAN, March 28, ARMENPRESS. Almost a week after the Brussels bombings, concerns over new attacks in the city remains strong among citizens and authorities called for the cancelation of the march Against Fear' on Sunday, Politicos correspondent Ryan Heath told Radio Sputnik, 'Armenpress' reports.

As life in the Belgian capital slowly returns to normal, Heath reported that the situation doesnt appear as dramatic as it did in November in France, when Paris was in full terror lockdown following the attacks. He said that now focus is more on the intelligence operation that is trying to track down elements of this terrorist cell rather than putting men with guns on the streets."
"World Bank Country Director to Vietnam, Victoria Kwakwa, said red tape in procedures, excessive bureaucracy and corruption were at the roots of a sluggish economy."  Illustrative Image/ VNA/VNS Photo Huy Hung

HA NOI (VNS)  Limitations in growth model reforms, inadequate policies towards businesses and loose connectivity between domestic and foreign enterprises are among the causes eroding the attractiveness of Viet Nams investment climate.

These were among the problems to be overcome, according to the Head of the Party Central Committees Economic Commission, Vuong inh Hue, speaking at an international workshop last Saturday.

It is necessary to assess Viet Nams competitive edge in comparison with global competitiveness, and devise solutions to raise the national index, Hue added.

Also, the country should evaluate the competitive edge of local businesses, as well as their products, against a national backdrop, he added.

Hue suggested Viet Nam create solutions and institutions to attract the worlds venture capital funds to support startups, especially small to medium-sized private enterprises (SMEs), explaining that apart from opportunities, the startups are expected to face many risks.

At the same time, the country should put in place specific solutions to help local firms better connect with foreign direct investment (FDI) partners and take part in the global value chain, he said.

Other delegates at the workshop emphasised the need for Viet Nam to bring into full play the many opportunities afforded by the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement, to which the country is a member.

Administrative reforms will result in new waves of investments and startups, said Vu Tien Loc, Chairman of the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He proposed the Government create an optimal and equal institutional environment, in tandem with rolling out measures and policies in support of SMEs. Businesses themselves should then operate within the favourable environment created, he added.

World Bank Country Director to Vietnam, Victoria Kwakwa, said red tape in procedures, excessive bureaucracy and corruption were at the roots of a sluggish economy.

A transparent banking system and well-regulated financial market are necessary for institutional streamlining and infrastructure development, which can ensure economic growth, she added.

The World Bank official also suggested Viet Nam develop more skillful labourers who can easily adapt to economic changes.  VNS
Legendary: The body of the sacred turtle recently living in Hoan Kiem Lake will be plastinated for preservation. Photo soha.vn

HA NOI  The legendary turtle living in Hoan Kiem (Sword) Lake, which died in January, will be preserved using a plastination method, according to authorities.

Speaking at a conference, the vice director of Viet Nam National Museum of Nature, Phan Ke Long, said that plastination uses silicone or polyester and is the most advanced method in preserving animal bodies.

During the process, the turtle will have special plastics injected as replacements for fluids, which will maintain the turtles structure after drying. This method will allow for the preserving of the turtles shape, skin and bone.

Truong Xuan Lam, PhD, from the Viet Nam Academy of Science and Technology, agreed that plastination has more advantages than other means of preservation, and has been used in preserving turtle bodies at Ngoc Son Temple.

While the fluid-preservation method might help to maintain the originality of the specimen, it also requires additional work, since the fluid needs frequent replacing. Also, the dry method does not preserve the original form of the turtle, because its eyes and shell edge have to be replaced and periodically checked. Plastination can overcome the limitations of these two methods by preserving the originality of both shape, colour and even the most sophisticated animal parts, such as eyes or shells, which are made of cartilage.

However, he noted that plastination has only been used on a number of specimens in developed countries, due to its high expense. No specimens in Viet Nam have been preserved using plastination before, and there are few specialists in the country who are familiar with this method.

According to Long, the specialized plastic process was developed in Germany, where the manufacturer only sells the plastic formula and information about the stages of preservation. Therefore, two German specialists will have to assist if the dead body of Sword Lakes turtle is plastinated.

Long said two German specialists are expected to arrive in Viet Nam in April to supervise the process of preserving the turtles body, working with experts from the Viet Nam National Museum of Nature. The specialists will first focus on shaping the turtles body, prior to the later stages of preservation.

If there are no difficulties, the preservation will be completed by December, he said.

The Sword Lake turtle has been stored in the freezing chamber at the Museum. VNS
Rallying call: KMang, head of a MNong ethnic group village from the Central Highlands province of ak Nong, blows a long breath into a buffalo horn to to summon his villagers to a worship ceremony.  VNS Photo Le Huong

by Le Huong

HA NOI  Raising a buffalo horn to his mouth, KMang, head of the MNong ethnic groups village in the central highland province of ak Nong, lets out a long blast to call his villagers together. They soon gather in front of their communal house to prepare for a worship ceremony at the villages gate.

Various offerings, including rice, water, wine, two pairs of elephant and rhino horns made of wood, and a small tiger, also made of wood, are displayed on a bamboo table underneath a pole.

The village head then blends pigs blood and wine, places three pieces of pigs liver onto the same bamboo stick, and puts it next to a jar of wine. Then he carries out the worship rituals.

After the rituals, families in the village bring the blood-blended wine home to offer to the gods of their homes, who protect their homes from evil.

Also, MNong people organize a ceremony at the villages gate once a year at the end of the third lunar month, before the rainy season.

The customs continue throughout the entire day, in which villagers pray for gods to protect the residents, seek favourable weather and to remain free of diseases throughout the year.

Yet this time, KMang and his villagers are not carrying out the ritual at his village in ak Nong Province, instead they are performing it at a house they built in a special village designed for all 54 ethnic groups in the country  called the Culture, Tourism Village of Vietnamese Ethnic Groups, located in the western outskirts of Ha Noi.

And their audience today is not only villagers, but also people from other ethnic groups.

Their ceremony is a highlight in the month-long programme focusing on the central highlands area to introduce the cultural heritage of eight ethnic groups from seven provinces. The groups include Gie Trieng, Xo ang and Gia Lai.

We introduced this ritual here, as it is greatly valued by the community, Ton Thi Ngoc Hanh, deputy chairperson of ak Nong Provinces Peoples Committee, told Viet Nam News, Every people, every ethnic group, shares the same wishes for good health, prosperity, goodness for people, wiping away evils and bad luck.

Hanh said local authorities have assisted the MNong people in maintaining the ritual, so they might hand it down to future generations in the province.

Coming to the capital this time, fifteen artisans from the province display MNong folk toys, gongs and hand-embroidered cloth, she said.

The village hosts special programmes every month to showcase different regions and groups.

March is a special time in the central highland, a month of growing and a season of festivals, said Nguyen Thanh Son, director of the villages management board. We have visited local villages to select the most typical groups with distinguished cultures, and invite them here to create a central highland atmosphere with bustling festivals. We just want to send a message of a central highland with great jungles, mountains and peoples with distinctive identities.

Son said the programme is being included among the villages plan to promote itself as a tourism destination.

We have updated our website frequently as a channel to promote ourselves. We will further co-ordinate with travel agencies this year to build up tourism products, such as one and two-day tours with special themes for food and the folk music of different ethnic groups, he said.

We are based on natural conditions at the village. We will exploit our existing houses on stilts for homestay accommodations. Building new hotels will be spared for investors, he added. Presently, representatives of eight groups, including Thai, Muong and E e, live here every day and are prepared to offer tourists a close look at their lifestyles, food, music and dances, as well as traditional handicrafts.  VNS
Nguyen Anh Tuan, the director general of the Institute of Policy and Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development, told Nong thon Ngay nay (Countryside Today) newspaper that a target growth rate of 2.5-3 percent over the next five years is feasible.

For the next five years (2016-2020), Viet Nam has set a target growth rate of between 2.5 to 3 percent per year for domestic agricultural production. How did the government determine this probable growth rate percentage?

The government set the target of 3-3.5 percent growth rate per annum for the agriculture industry. However, due to the harsh conditions this year, including severe drought and salt water intrusion caused by climate change, agricultural production has been severely affected.

Low prices for many agricultural products, including rubber and coffee - Viet Nams main products on the world market - have negatively affected national revenue.

For these reasons, a target growth rate of 2.5 to 3 percent over the next five years is realistic.

To achieve that target, the government will speed up the agriculture restructuring process by applying high tech to agricultural production, while ensuring sustainable development and food safety.

Remember that from 2006 through 2010, our agricultural industry recorded a growth rate of 3.2 to 3.3 percent per annum.

What should Viet Nam do to ensure that the target growth rate is achievable?

There are three things we should do right now:

First, we must adopt workable plans to cope with natural calamities and epidemics.

Second, food safety must be our top priority to win customers confidence  both within and outside of Viet Nam.

Third, we must look for new markets for our agricultural products. This is a realistic and effective measure to encourage farmers to expand production and increase their productivity.

Looking farther ahead, we should help farmers to produce on a larger scale and to connect with supply chains.

We should also aid farmers to apply high tech to their production methods. And we shouldd encourage farmers to conserve available production resources, such as land and water.

Farmers living in the central highlands and the Cuu Long Delta have been affected by severe drought and salt water intrusion. Does the government have plans to adapt to such harsh weather conditions?

We should review our available natural resources -- including land, water resources and others -- before designing adaptation strategies to cope with climate change. For example, growing wet rice cultivation yields low productivity. So we should consider growing other plants adapted to drought and salty water. We should also look at constructing irrigation systems for purposes such as rice irrigation, aquaculture cultivation, industrial trees, and even to fight forest fires.

As for land use, we should re-evaluate benefits derived from forests and coastal areas -- for the purpose of increasing their valuation, while conserving natural resources. -- VNS
Vessels in Tien Sa Port of Central a Nang City. a Nang plans to turn Lien Chieu Port into a major cargo port in the central region and the East-West Economic Corridor No 2 connecting Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Viet Nam.  Photo baodauthau.vn

A NANG  a Nang plans to turn Lien Chieu Port into a major cargo port in the central region and the East-West Economic Corridor No 2 connecting Thailand, Myanmar, Laos and Viet Nam with total investment of VN3 trillion (US$133.3 million).

Lien Chieu port, which currently handles 50,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) container ships, will be built to allow access to 100,000-tonne ships and cargo ship with loading capacity of 8,000 twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEUs).

Vice chairman of the central citys Nguyen Ngoc Tuan said the construction of the Lien Chieu port will ease congestion at the overloaded Tien Sa Port.

Tuan also asked Ministry of Transport to start construction of the port in 2020 for operation in 2025 when Tien Sa Port reaches its capacity of handling 11 million tonnes of cargo.

He said the deep-sea Lien Chieu port is eligible for connection with railway and road systems from the East-West Economic Corridor No 2 (EWEC2).

Tuan said Tien Sa Port, which serves both cargo and cruise ships, will gradually be cruise port with an anticipated capacity of 250,000 tourists in 2030.

According to the ministry of transport, Tien Sa port is designed for hosting 50,000 DWT container ships and 225,000 Gross Tonneage (GRT) cruise ships.

The central city also plans to upgrade Son Tra Port for 20,000DWT ships and build up an Inland Container Deport (ICD) to support ports in a Nang and Chan May port in neighbouring Thua Thien-Hue province.

A survey from the ministry of transport revealed that a Nang, which is situated at the end of EWEC, would handle 29 million tonnes of cargo by 2030.

The central citys port system including Tien Sa, Lien Chieu and Son Tra has been planned as the biggest integrated port among six seaports in Viet Nam (Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Thua Thien-Hue, Ky Ha, Dung Quat and a Nang).

Last year, a Nangs ports handled a record 6.5 million tonnes of cargo, and hosted nearly 120,000 tourists disembarking from cruises.

According to Viet Nams seaport system development plan to 2020, a Nang Port has been confirmed as a major commercial port in the region, making it one of the key gateways to the East Sea from the sub-Mekong region.  VNS
HCM CITY  HCM City authorities say that it may be difficult to reach the goal of 1 million bus passengers a day by 2020, the target set by the city in its master plan.

At a meeting on public transport held in the city recently, the municipal Transport Department said that the number of passengers had declined because of bus quality and poor management.

Also contributing to the drop in passengers is the higher traffic density, which has increased the length of time of certain routes, and poor service quality.

The limited area for buses at stations and the lack of a metro or bus rapid transit (BRT) system with convenient connections have also driven away passengers.

Delegates at the meeting asked the citys Transport Department to review state subsidies for transport companies and adjust the subsidy level if needed.

The department was also encouraged to develop a policy to encourage companies to invest in new buses and rearrange taxi activities.

Smart bus tickets and direct subsidies for students should be deployed soon, Huynh Cong Hung, standing member of the city Peoples Council, was quoted as saying on a Government website.

Smart bus tickets will also be used for other public transport means like the metro and BRT, and would be launched by the end of the year.

Only 12.7 per cent of the citys area is for bus routes and stations. That would be difficult to adjust, Bui Xuan Cuong, director of Transport Department, said.

He also pointed out that the quality of service and management would increase if information technology was applied. But huge expenditures would be needed.

The deputy chairman of HCM City Peoples Committee, Le Van Khoa, said the bus system must become more competitive by improving quality, encouraging more private enterprises by offering incentive policies and restructuring transport companies.

Subsidies for the bus system are necessary because the buses play a very important role in reducing congestion. But efficiency is needed, Nguyen Thi Quyet Tam, chairwoman of the municipal Peoples Council, said.

If we have good policies and create profits, private investors will help solve our challenges in reaching the goal of 1 million passengers a day by 2020, she added.  VNS
Foreign visitors go sightseeing at the Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal by boat in HCM City. Despite HCM Citys dense network of rivers and canals, waterway tourism has fallen short of the citys expectation that it would become the citys main tourism product by 2020.  VNA/VNS Photo An Hieu

HCM CITY  Despite HCM Citys dense network of rivers and canals, waterway tourism has not matched its potential, thus failing the citys expectations it would become the main tourism product by 2020.

Phan Xuan Anh, chairman of Du Ngoan Viet Company, one of the few travel firms to operate river tours to Can Gio and Cu Chi and of inner city canals, said conditions are not conducive to organising such tours.

The number of bridges with low clearance is among the biggest problems facing river tourism, he said.

On the route from Bach ang Wharf to Cu Chi, for instance, boats have to travel under the Binh Loi Bridge, which has very low clearance, meaning large vessels cannot pass through.

Large vessels cannot reach Sai Gon Port because Phu My Bridge has a clearance of only 50 metres. Most ships bringing tourists to HCM City thus have to dock at Hiep Phuoc in Nha Be District or ports in Ba Ria  Vung Tau from where the tourists have to reach HCM City by road.

Sometimes for just a dinner his company has to bus hundreds of tourists from Hiep Phuoc to the downtown, Anh said.

Last year his company invested VN10 billion on boat tours along the Nhieu Loc  Thi Nghe Canal.

Though the canal has become clean now, traversing its 4.5km is a big challenge due to nine low-slung bridges, he said.

State-owned Saigontourist also started six river tours, but only three are still in operation.

Another tour, this one of Ben Nghe and Tau Hu canals along Vo Van Kiet Highway, has been suspended after failing to attract customers.

The city developed tours from HCM City to the Mekong Delta, Cambodia, and ong Nai at a total cost of VN1 trillion (US$45.4 million) for the Government and VN10 trillion for the private sector, but several tours to ong Nai and Binh Duong have been suspended and city tours are not as popular as expected.

Red tape is another hurdle, Anh said, explaining how boats travelling between HCM City and Ba Ria  Vung Tau have to seek permission from both authorities.

In HCM City, a boat needs to get permission for operating from Bach ang Wharf, and if it wants to pick up tourists from upriver in District 2, more permissions have to be obtained, he said.

Huynh Van Son, a tourism expert, said HCM City is not ready yet for river tourism, pointing to unstable water environment condition , lack of interesting sights along its water bodies and insufficiency of piers.  VNS
Illustrative photo

THANH HOA (VNS)  A rabid dog attacked seven people in Thanh Hoa Province, including a pregnant woman who later died from rabies.

The dog had been raised by the family of the dead woman, 31-year-old Nguyen Thi Ha, in Lang Chanh Town. Last week, the animal reportedly developed strange symptoms and attacked seven people, including Ha.

Even after she had been bitten, Ha did not go to the health station to get the rabies vaccine. She developed seizures on March 21 and was rushed to hospital, but she died later.

Six others who had been bitten by the dog had already been vaccinated and are in stable condition.  VNS
After completing the Leaving Certificate examination in 1963 I worked as a laboratory assistant at the nearby Agricultural Research Institute at Moore Park. However, in September of that year I left and joined the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) at Donamon, Roscommon, Ireland.

I attended Grange National Primary School, a two-teacher country school, from 1951 to 1958. Between 1958 and 1963 I attended the secondary school run by the Christian Brothers in Fermoy town.

I WAS born on 28 January 1946 in Ballinahown near Fermoy town in County Cork, Ireland; the third born son of Garrett Roche and Margaret OToole. I was named Garrett after my father.

I was ordained a priest for the Society of the Divine Word on 6 January 1970 and appointed to what was then the Territory of Papua and New Guinea. Ten months later, on 8 October 1970, I arrived in the Western Highlands. After an introduction to my role with Fr Arnold Steffen at Kumdi, I was sent to Togoba to take the place of Fr Paul Ksiazek, who was going on leave to Poland.

In the middle of 1971, the parish of Karap in the Jimi Valley became vacant and I was asked to go there. Karap was about two hours drive from Banz. The government station at Tabibuga was another one hours drive from Karap.

While at Karap I got to know the kiaps at Tabibuga. Jack Edwards was in charge, Ken and Lois Logan and Rod Cantlay were also there. Another kiap, Harry Nash, was based at Kol for a while. I got on well with the kiaps and we met on patrol in the bush a few times.

I would go to Tabibuga for a second mass on Sundays and often call in to the kiaps after mass. Tabibuga had an airstrip and businessman Brian Heagney would sometimes fly in at the weekend.

He never came empty-handed, bringing a supply of SP beer and other delicacies. (If I remember correctly, Kevin Cantwell worked with Brian Heagney, and he was married to a sister of Jack Edwards wife, both fine ladies from the Yule Island area.)

During this time I also got to know the late Sir Thomas Kavali and the late James Kuru Kupul, both members of Parliament for Jimi. They were political rivals but both fine gentlemen in their own way. Pastoral work took me all over the middle Jimi and my visits to Ambullua took me through Kol and parts of upper Jimi. There was no road to Kol in those times. We walked everywhere.

After a year in Karap I was asked to move, as Bishop Bernarding wanted to give that area to a group of Spiritan priests who had been in Nigeria. So I moved to Ulga in the Nebyler valley and took over the parish from Fr Krimm who was going on leave.

Fr Krimm had a coffee plantation and would fully process the coffee and sell it to Australia. He did not expect me to do the same, he just arranged that I would sell the newly picked coffee cherry to Danny Leahy whose Korgua plantation was not far off.

This was Korgua Danny Leahy who, together with his brother Mick Leahy and Jim Taylor, was in the first group of outsiders to explore the Highlands. He features in the documentary film, First Contact. There was another Danny Leahy in Goroka - a younger nephew of the older Danny.

I did what Fr Krimm told me. In the coffee season in the afternoon I would load the truck with bags of coffee cherry and drive down to Korgua. Danny Leahys workers would weigh it and give me a docket which I would bring to Danny in his house.

Danny was glad of some company. He was a bit deaf and had poor eyesight. He would call me into his office and we would have a drink or two or three before he paid me there and then and I headed back to Ulga. I got to know several of his family and still have contact with many of them.

On Fr Krimms return from leave early in 1973, I was appointed Parish priest of Rebiamul with Fr William Ross as pastor emeritus. Fr Ross died on 20 May 1973 and I was officially nominated to take his place.

In 1977 I took a year out from PNG and worked in London with drug addicts. These addicts were all registered and would pick up their legal doses of methadone and other medications. from various clinics. It was a different experience.

In 1978 I returned to PNG and ended up in Hagen again. Then in 1981 I was asked to study Church Law (canon law) and was in Ottawa, Canada, for two years.

In 1983 I returned to Hagen and was there until the end of 1986. From 1987-1990 I taught at the national Seminary at Bomana near Port Moresby before, in 1991, travelling to Rome for doctoral studies. After completing them, I returned to PNG early in 1994.

Coming back to Hagen I was somehow appointed as a community representative on the Hagen Hospital Board and remained on that, and later on its replacement the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority, until 2016. I was also chaplain at Holy Trinity Teachers College.

Several Catholic dioceses that together had started Holy Trinity Teachers College, had a combined investment in Salamaua Holdings to support the College and I was asked to be their representative on the Salamaua Board (Lae International Hotel). In that capacity, I got to know Sir Bob Sinclair and John Atherton, both very interesting characters.

Attending meetings of these bodies gave me a good experience of government and business boards and was a fine preparation for being appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees of Divine Word Institute in 1998.

In the same year I was involved with the legal drafting of the new 1999 Act for Divine Word University and continued as Chair of Council (Chancellor) when the new Act came into force. I remained as Chair of Council of DWU from 1999 until 2013 when I resigned the position.

Also in 1999 I was also appointed to St Pauls Parish in Mt Hagen where I remained until 2005. This was a very busy but also a very enjoyable parish.

After helping in various parishes in Mt Hagen diocese for several years, in 2014 I moved to Divine Word University in Madang as Human Resource Director. If all goes well I will finish here in April 2016 and take home leave in Ireland before possibly returning to PNG for a new position.
Prime Minister will embark on a three-nation tour on Wednesday, during which he will hold a bilateral summit with the European Union (EU) in Brussels, attend the Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) in Washington, and become the first Indian PM to go to Saudi Arabia in six years. Modi will be in Brussels on Wednesday for the first India-EU summit in four years. His office has announced that the terrorist attacks in the city will not alter his plans.

EU Ambassador to India Tomasz Kozlowski said in a media interaction that India was an extremely important partner and the economic and social agenda of the government was especially attractive. He said the relationship had 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.

PM Modi had met presidents of the European Commission and European Council, Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk, respectively, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Antalya, Turkey last November.

Modi will be in Washington the next day for the NSS, expected to be attended by leaders of around 50 countries.

On his way back, Modi will stop in Riyadh. This 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 the palce of livelihood to nearly three million Indian expatriates, mostly blue-collar workers.

SP chief's daughter-in-law Aparna enters politics



Aparna Yadav, second daughter-in-law of Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, has entered politics and will be the party's candidate from a Lucknow Assembly seat next year.

Aparna, 26, will contest the 2017 Assembly election from Lucknow's Cantonment seat, senior minister and Mulayam's brother, Shivpal Singh Yadav, said. At present, the seat is being held by Congress' Rita Bahuguna Joshi. Aparna is wife of Mulayam's younger son, Prateek Yadav. The SP chief, his elder daughter-in-law, Dimple Yadav, his nephews Dharmendra Yadav, Akhshay Pratap and Tej Pratap are Lok Sabha members.

While another brother Ramgopal Yadav is in the Rajya Sabha, his elder son UP Chief Minister Akhilesh is a member of the Legislative Council.

Vijender Gupta in trouble for seeking abolition of RS



Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Vijender Gupta appears to be in trouble with Delhi Assembly Speaker Ram Niwas Goel seeking an explanation from him, after a communication from Rajya Sabha chairman Hamid Ansari to initiate necessary action against him for allegedly favouring "abolition" of the Upper House. Ansari had asked the Delhi Speaker to take necessary action against Gupta holding that "the matter seems to involve prima facie question of privilege" while acting on a complaint by JD(U) MP K C Tyagi, who accused the BJP MLA of casting aspersions on the members of Rajya Sabha.

Referring to a newspaper article written by Gupta, who is leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly, Tyagi alleged that the BJP MLA sought to underline the differences between the two Houses of Parliament and had suggested abolition of the Rajya Sabha.

Pak team to probe Pathankot attack arrives



A five-member joint investigation team (JIT) from Pakistan that included an Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official reached New Delhi on Sunday to carry out a probe into the attack at the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot, the first-ever such visit to the country to probe a terrorism case. The team is headed by the chief of the Punjab's counter terrorism department (CTD), Muhammad Tahir Rai and, comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, ISI official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.
Donald J Trump, the Republican presidential front-runner, said that if elected, he might halt purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to the fight against the Islamic State or "substantially reimburse" the United States for combating the militant group, which threatens their stability.

"If Saudi Arabia was without the cloak of American protection," Trump said during a 100-minute interview on foreign policy, spread over two phone calls on Friday, "I don't think it would be around."



He also said he would be open to allowing Japan and South Korea to build their own nuclear arsenals rather than depend on the American nuclear umbrella for their protection against North Korea and China. If the United States "keeps on its path, its current path of weakness, they're going to want to have that anyway, with or without me discussing it," Trump said.

And he said he would be willing to withdraw US forces from Japan and South Korea if they did not substantially increase their contributions to the costs of housing and feeding those troops. "Not happily, but the answer is yes," he said.

In Trump's worldview, the US has become a diluted power, and the main mechanism by which he would re-establish its central role in the world is economic bargaining. He approached almost every current conflict through the prism of a negotiation, even when he was imprecise about the strategic goals he sought. He again faulted the Obama administration's handling of the negotiations with Iran last year - "It would have been so much better if they had walked away a few times," he said - but offered only one new idea about how he would change its content: Ban Iran's trade with North Korea.

He argued that the best way to halt China's placement of military airfields and antiaircraft batteries on reclaimed islands in the South China Sea was to threaten its access to American markets. "We have tremendous economic power over China. And that's the power of trade." He did not mention Beijing's ability for economic retaliation.

He agreed with a suggestion that his ideas might be summed up as "America First." "Not isolationist, but I am America first. I like the expression." He said he was willing to reconsider traditional American alliances if partners were not willing to pay, in cash or troop commitments, for the presence of American forces around the world. "We will not be ripped off anymore."



In the past week, the bombings in Brussels and an accelerated war against the Islamic State have shifted the focus of the campaign trail conversation back to questions of how the candidates would defend the US and what kind of diplomacy they would pursue. Trump explained his thoughts in concrete and easily digestible terms, but they appeared to reflect little consideration for potential consequences. He personalised how he would engage foreign nations, suggesting his approach would depend partly on "how friendly they've been toward us," not just on national interests or alliances.

Like Richard M Nixon, Trump emphasised the importance of "unpredictability" for an American President, arguing that the country's traditions of democracy and openness had made its actions too easy for adversaries and allies alike to foresee. "I wouldn't want them to know what my real thinking is," he said of how far he was willing to take the confrontation over the islands in the South China Sea, which are remote and lightly inhabited but extend China's control over a major maritime thoroughfare. But, he added, "I would use trade, absolutely, as a bargaining chip."



Asked when he thought American power had been at its peak, Trump reached back 116 years to the turn of the 20th century, the era of another unconventional Republican, Theodore Roosevelt, who ended up leaving the party. His favourite figures in American history, he said, include two generals, Douglas MacArthur and George S Patton - though he said that, unlike MacArthur, he would not advocate using nuclear weapons except as a last resort. (He suggested MacArthur had pressed during the Korean War to use them against China as a means "to negotiate," adding, "He played the nuclear card, but he didn't use it.")



Pressed about his call to "take the oil" controlled by the Islamic State in the West Asia, Trump acknowledged that this would require deploying ground troops, something he does not favour. "We should've taken it, and we would've had it," he said, referring to the years in which the US occupied Iraq. "Now we have to destroy the oil."



He did not rule out spying on American allies, including leaders like Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, whose cellphone was apparently a target of the National Security Agency. Obama said the agency would no longer target her phone but made no such commitments about the rest of Germany, or Europe. "I'm not sure that I would want to be talking about that," Trump said. "You understand what I mean by that." Trump was not impressed with Merkel's handling of the migrant crisis, however: "Germany is being destroyed by Merkel's naivete, or worse," he said. He suggested that Germany and the Gulf nations should pay for the "safe zones" he wants to set up in Syria for refugees, and for protecting them once built.

Throughout the two conversations, Trump painted a bleak picture of the US as a diminished force in the world, an opinion he has held since the late 1980s, when he placed ads in newspapers calling for Japan and Saudi Arabia to spend more money on their own defence.

Trump's new threat to cut off oil purchases from the Saudis was part of a broader complaint about the US' Arab allies, which many in the Obama administration share: that they often look to the United States to police the Middle East, without putting their own troops at risk. "We defend everybody," he said. "When in doubt, come to the United States. We'll defend you. In some cases free of charge."



But his rationale for abandoning the region was that "the reason we're in the West Asia is for oil, and all of a sudden we're finding out that there's less reason to be there now." He made no mention of the risks of withdrawal - that it would encourage Iran to dominate the Gulf, that the presence of American troops is part of Israel's defence, and that American air and naval bases in the region are key collection points for intelligence and bases for drones and Special Operations forces.

Trump seemed less comfortable on some topics than others. He called the United States "obsolete" in terms of cyberweaponry, although the nation's capabilities are generally considered on the cutting edge.

In criticising the Iran nuclear deal, he expressed particular outrage at how the roughly $150 billion released to Iran (by his estimate; the number is in dispute) was being spent. "Did you notice they're buying from everybody but the United States?" he said. Told that sanctions under United States law still bar most American companies from doing business with Iran, he said: "So, how stupid is that? We give them the money and we now say, 'Go buy Airbus instead of Boeing,' right?"



But Trump, who has been pushed to demonstrate a basic command of affairs, insisted that voters should not doubt his foreign policy fluency. "I do know my subject," he said.



2016 The New York Times News Service
Chinas former leader mysteriously removed A rare public spectacle has drawn attention at the closing ceremony of China's Communist Party's National Congress, as President Xi Jinping prepares to be handed a third term in office.

Zelenskys diplomacy masterclass outpacing dour, grey Putin in battle for hearts and minds When Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year, there was no room for jokes or play acting, and Zelensky needed to step up. He did.

Megyn Kelly fires up at Meghan Markle over her deceptive nature Sky News Australia contributor Megyn Kelly has slammed Meghan Markle over her "abject dishonesty" after the Duchess of Sussex took a swipe at Deal or No Deal in her latest podcast episode which featured Paris Hilton.
WAVERLY  Waverly, Iowa, doesnt march to the same beat as Tulsa, Oklahoma  or, at least, it didnt.

At Stephen Klaassens large high school in Tulsa, he was part of a marching band drumline that competed at the national level.

Its not marching band as Iowans typically know it. Percussionists perform elaborate, choreographed routines on top of complicated drumming patterns. They use a specially-designed floor tarp and can incorporate acrobatics as well.

Competition was drummed into Klaassen. But when he got to Wartburg College in Waverly as a biology/pre-med major, he found no competitive drumming outlet. In fact, he said, there are maybe two competitive groups in the state.

Wartburg has the Orange drumline, a noncompetitive club that mostly played around campus and in the pep band. Klaassen wanted more.

The reason I wanted to improve the program here is to possibly go and compete, he said.

But he also realized he would need an entirely different group  with different goals  to achieve that.

Thats how Revolution Indoor Percussion, or RIP, began. The small group of 21 college students  nearly all of whom attend Wartburg  got started in January with the intent to begin competing in the next school year.

I started with the thought of it, reaching out to people and see who would want to do it, Klaassen said.

Among those who were interested was Scott Eiklenborg, a freshman percussion performance major. He plays a drum set in RIP.

I was in the regular (Orange) drumline, and we were trying to originally get that drumline better, Eiklenborg said. Stephen came up with this brilliant idea to do the drumline group.

RIP is open to the community as well as any students interested in competitive percussion (previous knowledge not required).

It gives me another avenue I honestly have never heard of, Eiklenborg said.

So far, the group has performed once off campus, in DeWitt, but has a performance planned at Aplington-Parkersburg on April 2 as well as an on-campus performance at 6 p.m. April 9 in Levick Arena.

Theyre also raising money for their own drums. Wartburg is, for now, allowing them to use Oranges percussion instruments in the spring, but Klaassen knows hes getting by on their good graces.

He hopes, once RIP performs in the community more, that donations will begin coming in.

I guarantee its something theyve never seen before, Klaassen said.
But it was the next few words which had my mind reeling, and to all its privileges. Affixed with a golden star  the Common Seal. Magical!

It was a great feeling to read that diploma  By authority of the Council, Michael Dom, having fulfilled all the requirements and conditions prescribed by the By-Laws of the university has been admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Science.

GRADUATING from the University of Papua New Guinea was one of the proudest achievements in my life; my own pride outmatched only by my mothers.

It was even better that a dear and long-time family friend, Prof Lance Hill, was on the dais to hand the diploma to me (with some resistance I might add, because I was clearly hung-over).

It was a few months later, when I was unemployed and on the streets, that I realised what those privileges did not cover. It took more than a few years to realise what they did cover.

This year I rejoined the University of Papua New Guinea alumni through its website portal. I had first signed on as an alumnus immediately after graduation in 2001, but I have no idea what happened to the organisation afterwards.

Mostly the alumni seems to be a dead horse. But bear in mind I have lived outside Port Moresby for the last 10 years, so things could be happening of which I am unaware.

The resumption of the Waigani Seminars comes to mind but, in my opinion, we may still be some way off from reaping the full benefit of what should be heated public debate within this forum.

A new initiative at UPNG is John Kaupa Kamasuas Career Development and Employment Enhancement Program. I wish I had been through such a program when I was in university.

Nevertheless, the generally poor and struggling status of UPNG (and that of other higher learning institutes) reflects poorly on the elite members of society who have had the benefit of higher education and who should be leading alumni and alumnae.

A few names come to mind, in no particular order: Sir Rabbie Namiliu (Political Science), Sir Mekere Morauta (Economics) and Governor Paias Wingti (Economics), Bart Philemon (Arts) and Peter ONeill (Accountancy and Commerce).

(Oops, I just realised Ive implicated four of the five founding fathers and the current Prime Minister to boot! Argh! How totally non-Melanesian of me!)

Im sure most of you have heard of these Melanesian big-men, but there are many others, and women too, in less exalted, but equally important positions in PNG today.

These are powerful alumni representatives that permeate our society; men and women once educated and enlightened within the intellectual sanctuaries of the University of Papua New Guinea. So why is this temple of higher learning now mostly desecrated and otherwise left to ruin and decay?

(Even the development of the dormitories was given over to a former television personality and all-round clown!)

Perhaps this educated elite was unhappy with its time there, or dissatisfied with the outcome and would rather forget that whole period they were forced to endure.

If thats the case, then Im so very sorry their lives were tainted during that formative period. But Im quite sure that, over the years, theyve more than taken back their rightful benefits in one way or several others.

Alternatively, perhaps these elite alumni understood all too well the powerful influence that such intellectual sanctuaries could have on the rest of their people if they allowed the temples to flourish unchecked.

(God forbid if the rest of the population wised up to them! Thered be anarchy!)

Martyn Namorong claims that some of my fellow alumni have become the predatory elites, who feast on the juicy flesh of the PNG economy and prostitute our society to their Philistine whims.

Conspiracy theories abound.

Correct me if Im wrong, but I was under the impression that universities were the central agencies responsible for generating the intellectual, skilled and dedicated professionals to drive a nation forward.

(Its no insult to our more technically-oriented training academies, but we need to understand why something works in order to use it properly to our benefit.)

Perhaps I have been led astray in my thinking, after all it has been 15 years since I graduated from UPNG and Im now being brain washed by my supervisors and experiences at the University of Adelaide.

Last year UPNG celebrated its 50th graduation  50 years of dedicated services to human capital development through the provision of higher education, research, and community engagements in Papua New Guinea and the region.

Truly. Fifty years and 15-30,000 graduates later (my guestimates).

The evidence of human capital development must be in our declining health, education and employment statistics, in our poor delivery of basic services, in our eager encouragement of exploitative resource extractive industries and in our externally oriented and self-serving macro-economy, with little to nil input into the vast informal economy, and governance provided by a recycled cesspool of cronies and political philanderers with little integrity, dignity or respect for their people.

(Wow! All that and I havent even said fuck yet  oops!)

But this article is about prestige not politics and governance. Fair dinkum, mate!

While living at Roseworthy Campus in Adelaide, Ive had the time for much serious reflection, as happens when you live far away from the hustle and bustle of your home city and are isolated from normal duties, finding yourself free to contemplate the meaning of life and everything (which is zero by the way).

And so Ive tried to reconnect with my alma mater, or at least the most important part of the university  the students.

This, copied below, is a discussion topic which I raised and which was also the first to register (if site admin accepts it) on the UPNG Alumni website.

I recently had a lunch conversation with a colleague formerly of Australia's CSIRO. While talking about our research activities and the involvement of universities he mentioned his understanding that UPNG was the premier institute in PNG. I felt a sense of pride to hear this from someone who has not had very much contact with PNG or our universities. In fact, the same identification of UPNG still lingers elsewhere. For example, a highly placed intellect from Samoa, trained at the UPNG Medical School under a PNG scholarship, remarked with great pride and a sense of debt about his benefit and the many pleasant experiences he had while in PNG. But my pride was tinged with a sense of disappointment, because whether we all admit it or not the UPNG, like many other institutions of higher learning, has fallen on bad times which have lasted for far too long. There are some very good developments happening in recent times. In particular, the advancement of the Science and Technology Council and its executive arm, the S&T Secretariat, headed by Prof Lohi Matainaho. This group, as I understand, are lifting the standard of science and technology research and training. This bodes well for the future of PNG. But there is one other more fundamental group that needs to rise from its slumber. The students and alumni. Make a list of PNG's elite members of society and you may find that many of them received undergraduate training at the UPNG. Where they, and what are they contributing back to their alma mater? Also, the current students, who will in future find some place in society should also be taking part in raising the standard of their university. They say that an organization is only as good as the people who make it up. Similarly our university is only as good as the staff and students who make it up. And our country. Students are easily the biggest population on any campus. So, by simple corollary, students should have the greatest influence on the institutes status. As a former graduate, and proud product of the UPNG, I would like to know what is happening at the university, what is planned, what good activities are there that former graduands can also participate in with the present and future community. There is surely a lot more we can do to raise the prestige of our university, and place it once again on that pedestal which in days gone by made it the most vibrant place of learning in the Pacific.

I eagerly await responses and will update Attitude readers as need be.
Something magical is coming to Universal Studios Hollywood this spring. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is ready for its star studded, red carpet premiere on April 5th, before officially opening its magical door to the general public two days later, on April 7th. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwCF-MD351k This Harry Potter land on the West Coast of America promises to take fans into the intricate and detailed world of wizards and witches. Universal has other Harry Potter experiences at its parks in Orlando and Japan and both have been applauded for their attention to detail and fan-pleasing atmosphere. Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Hollywood has already been open to the public on select days and times this month. Known as a soft opening, these practice runs allow guests to try out the areas so that when it comes to the official opening day, everything runs smoothly and any last minute issues can be evanesco. Due to these soft opening days, it has been possible to get some glimpses of the delights visitors can expect to see when this new area opens. It looks good, real good! Here are some of the things that will make you want to rush out to Hollywood and explore the world of Harry and his friends...
Warner Bros.

Who would ever have thought that a billionaire playboy who dresses up to fight criminals dressed as a bat with a bondage penchant would become the world's most enduring character?

Batman has transcended the normal limits of typical character existence: despite the potential to become a camp action hero parody, he has been overseen over the years by hundreds of genius writers who have crafted a complex, irresistibly fragmented universe around him. And no matter how much Marvel fanboys insist that he simply doesn't have the charismatic appeal of the Avengers, he remains the MVP of comic book superheroes.

Even more than that, the cowled hero is also the reigning MVP of comic book movies. He might have been dragged somewhat through the mire by Joel Schumacher's ill-fated period of control, and Batman v Superman might not be winning too many fans among critics, but Batman is a legitimate banker even when DC movies aren't competing generally with the MCU.

And for good reason. That's why DC and Warner Bros sabotaged Man Of Steel 2 to add him in, and it's also why there would have been stand-alone future Batman films even if Ben Affleck had spectacularly failed in the role.

But which of the 15 actors to have played Batman and Bruce Wayne on screen has done the character the most justice? And most importantly of all, where does Affleck rank?

13. George Clooney (Batman & Robin)

Warner Bros.

Coming off the back of his show stealing performance in ER (which he was yet to leave full-time), Clooney was still a Hollywood greenhorn in 1998, and hadn't quite found his smooth groove. Later Clooney would have nailed Bruce Wayne, and could have offered a far more interesting Batman too, but with Schumacher's god-awful script and similarly terrible directing, he was made to look like a fool.

Commanded to work with material akin to Adam West's 1960s camp-fest, but to play "straight" in a very specific way (i.e. showing little genuine emotion, rather than playing it detached), Clooney is horribly wooden and barely seems like he cares.

So even though there was a lot of potential, Clooney's performance was so reduced that it seemed he'd only been cast because his chin looked phenomenal poking out of the Bat-cowl.
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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.

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Everybody needs this reminder of this from time to time. International Performer and NYIDE Product Director Kierstyn Zaykoski, and Applied Study Candidate Symphony Quencer work with Booker T. Washington Community Center's -High School After School Program and uses MT Principles to encourage students and counselors to step out of their comfort zones and then use new tangible tools to communicate with each other, teachers and families at home. Participants learn that by engaging their fear it has no power over them; a skill that allows them to become happier, more confident, and therefore more successful people. Set fear aside this #MTMonday! Make it your friend.
Have you ever tried to turn on the TV at someone else's house? It's like trying to figure out what toy will stop a 2-year-old from having a first-degree meltdown while you're baby-sitting for the first time.

I'm in the guest room at Melody and Mac's house, and just want to watch the news before nodding off. They've told me how to find the light switch in the bathroom, how to jiggle the toilet handle, where to find extra blankets, even what pets might crawl into bed with me.

"Just make yourself at home! Our fridge is your fridge," they tell me, before they totter off to bed.

But I receive no help in the TV department. There are five remotes in the guest bedroom. One for the TV, one for the cable box, one for the DVR, one for the ceiling fan and a red one that doesn't seem to do anything, no matter how many times you push its buttons. Of course, I don't know which remotes do what right away; it took a while just to get this far.

Today's news will be in the history books before I figure this out.

I can get the TV to turn on and I can get the cable to turn on, but not at the same time. Oh, I see  you have to turn on the DVR first, then the cable, then the TV. Wow, is that loud. Click, click, click  nothing. Whoops, you have to turn down the TV volume with the TV remote, not the cable remote.

Now, which channel has the news? Melody and Mac's channels are totally different than mine, since they use a different cable service. Their service is much better. They get all kinds of channels I don't. Oh wow. It seems Melody and Mac subscribe to a lot of premium "adult" entertainment channels.

Now I can't turn the TV off. It's getting louder. I have pushed every button on every remote 10 times. It sounds like I'm hosting an MTV-style Spring Break party in the guest room. Finally I get up, unplug everything and climb back into bed.

I hadn't noticed it before, but the mattress is harder than the tiles on the bathroom floor. It's like trying to sleep on a brick. I would toss and turn, but I'm afraid I'd bruise myself.

The next morning Melody says, "I had no idea you were such a night owl! Maybe you should have your hearing checked. We could hear the TV at the other end of the house." I apologize for interrupting their sleep. She winks at me and says, "Oh, we weren't sleeping."

Suddenly I remember the slew of X-rated channels. Ewwwwww. TMI.

Maybe I'm just not a born traveler. I have friends who go all over the world for months at a time, and they tell me how much fun they have. "Oh, you'll love Thailand! We spent six weeks there and it changed our lives. We lived in a grass hut and caught our own fish." They're making Motel 2 sound like heaven. Six weeks? I've only been away two days and I'm already missing my own bed, my own remote controls, my own bathroom.

I don't like having to be on my best behavior in someone else's house. My worst behavior is where I really start to shine.

"How about that mattress?" Melody asks, with obvious pride in her voice.

I don't know what to say, so I go with, "I've never slept on anything quite like it."

"Yes," she says. "I love the way you can make it harder or softer with just the push of a button."

So that's what the red remote does.
New estimates for the upcoming month show that cord shaving or consumers who continue to subscribe to cable, but downsize their programming bundles will continue to be an issue for providers and their networks. According to Broadcasting & Cable magazine, the new data from Nielsen shows that there will be reduced numbers subscribing to networks in April:

Nielsens cable universe estimates for April show a 1.7% decline in pay TV households but a bigger drop in subscribers for some cable network owners, according to analyst Brian Wieser of Pivotal Research.

So what does this mean? It means that cord cutting may not be the problem as once thought, but cord shaving is. Prominent cable content providers such as Disney will be down 3.6% in households for April matching the same number for this month. Yes, that includes ESPN and its family of networks. Viacom which includes MTV and Spike will see a 3.1% drop in April. NBCUniveral which has NBCSN, USA and others has a drop in the 2% range while 21st Century Fox which operates FS1 has a smaller 0.9% decrease.

Disney CEO Robert Iger has said while ESPN has seen a fall in subscribers, hes seen signs of recent increases. But the numbers of Nielsen show otherwise:

But Wieser says Nielsens figures show individual networks fell between 5.4% for ESPNU and 2.2% for Disney Jr. (and that doesnt count ESPN News and ESPN Classic which are no longer Nielsen rated. At Viacom, declines ranged between 4.1% for CMT and 0.8% for Centric. Other networks showing sizable drops were Discoverys Science, falling 4.5% and NBCUs MSNBC, off 4.3%.

So as cord shaving continues, it now has industry observers wondering if ESPN will launch a standalone over the top subscription channels as CBS, HBO and Showtime have. And if the lower trends continue, what will this mean for ESPNs bottom line which has been taking a hit recently. If Disney has to deal with lower numbers of subscribers meaning decreased payments from the cable operators, it will affect ESPN which already had to deal with layoffs.

While skinny bundles may offset some network losses, will they be enough to stem the tide of cord shavers? Its a question that consumers will tell with their wallets and their TVs.

[Broadcasting & Cable]
The upcoming issues for next month's Art Market Magazine will be a monumental one as we celebrate our second year as a publication with issue 24. It will be a celebratory issue of the magazine.

NEW YORK, NY, March 28, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Art Market Magazine has seen a continual rise in popularity since its inception almost two years ago. Starting as a budding publication, Art Market now boasts a partner website to accompany all of the extensive fine and contemporary arts coverage provided in each issue, with both offering a range of fantastic and insightful coverage of all things going on in the art world today.



Today we are happy to announce one of our biggest interviews to date, featuring none other than Jeff Koons.



Exclusive Interview with Jeff Koons - More Future Interviews with the World's Leading Artists Will Follow...



Jeff Koons needs little introduction amongst fans of the art community -he is often cited as one of the biggest names in contemporary art, and we are very excited to feature an extensive interview with him in our newest issue.



Art Market Magazine is no stranger to featuring interviews with the best and brightest artists around - we make it one of the key components of our publication, and love to feature both emerging talents alongside established names such as Koons.



Jeff Koons represents the growing reputation of Art Market Magazine, as he is certainly our biggest interviewee to date, and will be the first in a long line of great artists to feature in the publication each month.



Our in-depth interview with the 'rock star' of contemporary art features an insightful discussion with Koons, where he discusses all things art, along with musings about his life and where he expects to find himself in the future - it is not one to miss.



The interview with Koons will be the first of many feature articles that will interview some of the leading names in fine and contemporary art, showcasing the growing reputation of Art Market Magazine as one of the top publications in this field.



Extensive Coverage of Art Dubai & Art Basel Hong Kong Fairs



Art Market Magazine is no stranger to covering exhibitions. As the scope and reach of the magazine has grown, so too has our ability to provide coverage from some of the biggest art exhibitions, auctions, fairs and festivals.



Art Dubai and Art Basel Hong Kong are two of the latest art fairs to be given extensive coverage in our magazine.



Art Dubai is one of the largest art fairs in the United Arab Emirates and features 90 galleries that contain exhibitions from all across the globe, including many of the finest artists from the Middle East.



Art Basel Hong Kong has proven to be one of the premier art fairs for the Asian art community, with more than half of the work exhibited coming from Asia and Asia Pacific.



Both look to be some of the best fairs to date this year, and Ark Market Magazine is incredibly proud of our in-depth coverage of both, which promises to be a fascinating and insightful read for our international readership.



Art Market Magazine Will Be Celebrating its Second Birthday Very Soon



The upcoming issues for next month's Art Market Magazine will be a monumental one as we celebrate our second year as a publication with issue 24.



It will be a celebratory issue of the magazine where we will look back on how far we have come as well as looking ahead to the very bright future, along with all manner of exciting and exclusive content.



Editor and founder of Art Market Dafna Navarro has been the driving force behind Art Market's success, as her tireless work and effort over the past two years has helped to establish on the growing fine and contemporary arts publications in the world.



An exclusive interview with Dafna will be featured in this special edition of Art Market Magazine. Readers will be able to find out all about the humble beginnings of the magazine, along with lots of other interesting facts about the publication and how it has grown over the course of two years.



It should be a fascinating read and is one not to be missed!



New Contributors Wanted!



We have always been on the lookout for talented contributors with a passion for art. There are no prerequisites to become a contributor; we want to hear the thoughts and opinions from all walks of life. Art is universal; it effects and influences everyone differently. You can be an artist yourself or just love to write about it -we want as many perspectives as possible!



The future is very bright for International Ark Market. We are looking forward to every step we take and hope the many people can join us along the way!



Available in both Digital and Physical Formats!



Art Market is continuing to see more and more distribution opportunities open up for the magazine, allowing us to find an even larger audience than ever before. We want to provide coverage of all things art to fans in every country in the world, creating a community of fans and artists that can share their passion for art through our various platforms, including Art Market Magazine.



We are available in a number of popular digital newsstands, including Pocketmags and Magzter, as well as being available on Google Play for Android devices and the App Store for Apple devices. These platforms allow the exponential growth of Art Market Magazine, and we are very happy that we can be made available to readers from every background throughout the world. Art Market Printed Edition available in the U.S by Magcloud.com



Art Market Magazine. The International Magazine for contemporary Fine Art. Bringing you inside the global art world with more access and insight to the people, places and events that shape our industry. With deeper focus on auctions, art fairs and exhibitions from all over the world, interviews with the new emerging artists and coverage of the most updated and neat Fashion&Art collaborations. New style, New content, New International Art Magazine.



# # #
Mar 28, 2016 | By Kira

When it comes to historic aircrafts and aircraft reproductions, there are your aviation fans and enthusiastsand then, there is Dr. Christoph Vernaleken, a German physicist, doctor of engineering, and authority on nearly all things aircraft related. In particular, Vernaleken has become an expert on the Junkers Ju 388 L, a high altitude reconnaissance plane from World War II.

An extremely rare specimen, the last surviving Ju 88 is currently stored in the non-public area of the Smithsonians National Air and Space Museum, also known as Silver Hill. However, that hasnt stopped Vernaleken from creating an entire website in its honor, and even publishing a book, both in German and in English, about the Junkers Ju 388 alongside friend and co-author Martin Handig.

Now, Vernaleken is set to embark on a new mission to bring the Ju 388 to life. Using CAD design and 3D printing technology, he wants to reproduce an accurate and museum-quality cockpit of this outstanding, 1943 German warbird, complete with flight instruments and actual simulation equipment.

With the first scale-model parts already 3D printed and a feasibility study in the works, the 3D printed Ju 388 Project is officially underway and could eventually become the most accurate way for the public to explore and learn about the Ju 388 for themselves.

Historic image of the Ju 388 WWII aircraft

Vernalekens fascination with historic aircrafts began in the early 1980s, when he visited the worlds largest museum of science and technology, Munichs Deutsches Museum. After graduating, he worked for seven years as an aviation safety and flight deck researcher at TU Darmstadt before joining Airbus Defense in the Human Factors Engineering and Flight Deck departments.

In 1993, he had the opportunity to film the interior of the last remaining Ju 388, which, luckily, is still in excellent condition. Inspired by this footage, he made the long-term goal of one day reconstructing the Ju 388s cockpit panels. Years later, in 2013, Vernaleken became familiar with 3D printing, and realized that through this cost-effective, technically accurate manufacturing method, he could finally realize that goal.

Current state of the Ju 388 cockpit

Of course, static reproductions of instrument panels are fascinating in their own right, but for a professional systems engineer working in the field of Human Factors Engineering, a dynamic simulation of cockpit procedures is way more attractive, explained the physicist.

His biggest initial challenge was to acquire either original instruments or suitable drawings of the aircrafts cockpit to create accurate 3D models. Indeed, accuracy is paramount, since even a few tenths of a millimetre of error could render the spare part unusable, however Vernaleken's years of expertise and incredible eye for detail have made him more than ready for the job.

Until recently, the only possibility to reproduce instrument casings consisted in the various second cast techniques, resulting in (partial) epoxy resin casts, he said. However, with 3D CAD software (he uses Punch! ViaCAD Pro 9) and sufficient patience one can create a 3D model of the instrument casting to be reproduced in several hours, ideally during dark winter evenings.

Once satisfied with the digital reproduction, Vernaleken sends his 3D model to 3D printing service i.materialise. Test prints are ordered in low-cost, laser-sintered polyamide, however for the final, museum-quality replica, he relies on i.materialises Prime Gray. Though more expensive, he explains that Prime Gray has a similar density and results in an optical quality almost equal to that of injection molding.

As the image below shows, the aged original piece in the background is nearly identical to its 3D printed counterpart, giving an impressive demonstration of the current capabilities of 3D printing.

Even with the slightly more expensive materials, Vernaleken revealed that 3D printing is still by far the most cost-effective way to create reproductions of cockpit parts that were originally cast in metal or created from historic plastic materials. Unit costs would be astronomically high if molds for casting metal or plastic injection molding would have to be manufactured in the classic fashion, he said. [3D printing] is a key enabler.

Currently, Vernaleken has released some of his historic aircraft component replicas to his i.materialise profile. These include a 3D printed Bakelite bezel of a cockpit switch panel and metal starter handles for the Lutwaffe aircraft.

However, before the Ju 388 Project can begin in earnest, he is conducting a feasibility study. The first objective of this study is to find out whether it is possible in principle to create museum-quality and full-scale spare parts for historic cockpit instruments using 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing techniques. The second objective will be to see whether he can also find a cost-effective way of making these simulations for the warbird home cockpit/simulator market.

Once complete, the 3D printed Ju 388 cockpit replica will be an unparalleled resource, allowing aviation enthusiasts, students and history buffs to explore and learn about this rare WWII aircraft without compromising the original, safely stored specimen, and is yet another excellent example of how the most of modern technologies can help bring history to life.

Posted in 3D Printing Application

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Mar 28, 2016 | By Tess

As 3D printing technologies become an increasingly prevalent and efficient way of manufacturing a wide variety of parts and goods, countries all around the world are beginning to recognize the benefits of using additive manufacturing and are integrating it into their companies production processes. Within the additive manufacturing world, regions like Europe, Asia, and North America have tended to dominate in terms of 3D printing advancements, but now the Middle East is beginning to make its mark in the growing field.

Just yesterday, Sinterex, the Middle Easts first specialist provider of metal additive manufacturing, announced the opening of its first location in the United Arab Emirates. The news of the companys expansion coincidentally follows the announcement of the construction of a 3D printed office building in Dubai by WinSun, and both releases point towards the increased integration of 3D printing technologies into the UAEs economy and manufacturing culture.

The newly opened Sinterex firm is located in Ras al-Khaimah, only 90 minutes from the UAEs largest city, Dubai, and will be the first service in the region to offer metal additive manufacturing services. The company was founded by Julian Callanan, a consulting and management specialist, Dr. Alaa Elwany, a specialist in metal 3D printing and the companys technical director, and Dr. Paul Smith, a specialist in design strategies for additive manufacturing who is also operating as Sinterexs technical director.

The metal 3D printing firm will offer its clients end-to-end 3D printing services, helping them to understand the benefits of the technology, how it could fit into their business, and guide them through the implementation process. Ultimately, they are hoping to target such influential industries as regional energy, manufacturing, and aviation firms with their integrated 3D printing services. Sinterex will also offer consulting and market research services to interested parties.

In the current slow economic and low oil price environment companies are under increasing pressure to identify areas for cost reduction and value enhancement, said Alaa Elwany. These goals can be achieved through Metal Additive Manufacturing.

As part of the companys consulting services, Sinterex has developed a proprietary commercial viability screening framework through which it can determine whether metal parts ordered by a company are viable to be made from metal additive manufacturing. If the parts are suited to be 3D printed based on the screening test, the company then implements a technical screening process during which its 3D printing experts determine whether the part can be made using existing technologies. The company also offers redesigning as its final consulting step to help optimize the structure and composition of the part to be 3D printed. This last step entails redesigning or remodeling the parts internal structure and geometries to increase its functionality and even its cost efficiency.

As the company states on its website: Metal Additive Manufacturing has been hailed as a disruptive innovation with the power to challenge existing supply chains. The disruptive force of metal additive manufacturing comes from its distinct ability to reduce the time, cost, and material consumption of traditional manufacturing processes. According to the company, for instance, lead times which traditionally took 60 weeks, could be cut down to as little as one month with metal additive manufacturing technologies.

Posted in 3D Printing Service

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by Jonathan Kujawa

Yakov Sinai

On March 26th it was announced that Yakov Sinai, a mathematician at Princeton University and the Landau Institute for Theoretical Physics, had won the 2014 Abel Prize. The Abel prize was established in 2001 by the government of Norway and was first given 2003. Unlike the more famous Fields Medal, which (in)famously can only be granted to those under the age of forty, the Abel prize recognizes an individual for the breadth and depth of their entire career. It has quickly become the highest award one can earn in mathematics. Indeed, the list of prizewinners over the past ten years reads like a who's who of influential mathematicians.

Dr. Sinai won the prize for his fundamental contributions to dynamical systems, ergodic theory, and mathematical physics. Fortunately, I'm completely unqualified to tell you about Dr. Sinai's work. I say fortunately because Jordan Ellenberg already does an excellent job explaining Dr. Sinai's work in layman's terms as part of the announcement of the winner. You can watch the video here. Dr. Ellenberg gives a very nice twenty-minute overview of Dr. Sinai's work starting at the nine minute mark. Highly recommended!

I also say fortunately because it gives me the excuse to tell you about some cool math. A big part of Dr. Sinai's work is in the area of Dynamical Systems. This is a rare case where the name of a mathematical discipline actually tells you what the field is all about. Simply put, researchers in dynamical systems are interested in studying how a given system changes over time. The artist Tristan Perich explores the same territory by examining the upredictable dynamics of using computer code to draw in an unsheltered environment.

Tristan Perich's drawing machine in action [0].

This is the sort of math you would be interested in if you want to model and predict the weather, the climate, the stock market, the reaction in the combustion chamber of an engine or in a nuclear explosion, etc. Of course these are all wildly difficult problems. Even with all our modern computing power it's hard to make progress. So here we'll instead think about much, much simpler examples which still exhibit some of the same interesting phenomena.

A boring first example is the second hand on a clock. As each second ticks by the second hand turns another one-sixtieth of the way around the clock face. This system is completely deterministic: if I know where it is now, then I know its entire past and future [1].

This is the clockwork universe of Newtonian physics. If we knew the location, velocity, etc., of every particle in the universe at a given moment, then we could calculate the past and future with perfect accuracy. As it doesn't leave room for independent actions, the prospect of a clockwork universe is equally alarming to religious and free-will types. Indeed, Newton himself rejected such a simplistic view of the universe [2]:

The six primary Planets are revolv'd about the Sun, in circles concentric with the Sun, and with motions directed towards the same parts, and almost in the same plane. But it is not to be conceived that mere mechanical causes could give birth to so many regular motions. This most beautiful System of the Sun, Planets, and Comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful Being.  Newton in Principia Mathematica

But the universe is much more interesting than a clock. A dynamical system is chaotic if slight variations at the start evolve into dramatic differences in the future. Many real world systems are highly chaotic. A bit of sun in Texas in August may result in more snow in Chicago in February. If you drop a small bead in glass of carbonated water it will be jostled along a complicated path. That path would have been completely different if you dropped the bead a moment later or into a slightly different place in the glass.

a) being jostled by water molecules leads to b) an unpredictable path [3]

One of Dr. Sinai's early accomplishments was his work with Andrey Kolmogorov where they introduced entropy, a precise way to measure where a dynamical system lies on the continuum between deterministic and chaotic.

It turns out that chaos can happen in even seemingly simple dynamical systems. One place to find such systems is when you have a mathematical rule which uses numbers for both inputs and outputs. Like a snake eating its own tail, you can study what happens if you iterate the rule over and over. That is, you plug in an initial input and then whatever output you get is used as your next input, and the output you get from that is your next input, and so on. What happens if you do this over and over for hundreds or thousands of iterations?

A boring example would be the rule which squares each number. Starting with 2 you get 4, 16, 256, 65,356,. Nothing too exciting happens. And if you start with a nearby number, say 2.1, then the sequence of numbers you get remains predictably close to 2's sequence. But a slight variation of this where instead you square and add a constant is a classic example of a chaotic dynamical system. When you color each starting input by how quickly the sequence grows you get the Mandelbrot Set. The infinite complexity you see as you zoom in along the edges is a nothing but the fact that even very close points can have dramatically divergent behavior as you iterate.

The beauty of dynamical systems (aka the Mandelbrot Set). From Wikipedia.

Another natural question to ask of a dynamical system is: if you let it run long enough, does it ever repeat itself? This is another way to measure the system's predictability. Our clock's second hand repeats itself once a minute like, well, clockwork. For something like the weather it's unlikely to the point of impossibility that it will ever repeat itself. But again we can look for examples between these two extremes.

The famous Collatz conjecture is just such a dynamical system. The rule is quite simple. Start with a natural number (i.e., one of the counting numbers: 1,2,3,4,). If it's even, divide by two. If it's odd, multiple by three and add one. Repeat over and over again and see what happens. Let's say we start with 5. Since it's odd we triple and add one, getting 16. Which is even, so we divide by two, getting 8. Continuing in this way we get 5,16,8,4,2,1,4,2,1,4,2,1,. Notice that in this example we eventually obtained 1 and found ourselves trapped in the closed loop of 4,2,1. A closed loop like this in a dynamical system is also called a periodic orbit.

Lothar Collatz conjectured in 1937 that if you start with any natural number, then iterating his rule often enough inevitably leads to 1 and, hence, the closed loop. That is, every starting number leads to a periodic orbit. It's rather addictive to pick numbers and start iterating to see if and when you finally get to 1. You can do this by hand or use one of the online Collatz calculators. People have used computers to verify Collatz's conjecture for every number up to five quintillion! But, of course, that still leaves infinitely many numbers. Indeed, it's an open question if all numbers lead to 1. Paul Erdos is said to have once said that Mathematics is not yet ripe for such problems.

Lastly, I have to mention dynamical billiards. A bead bobbing about in soda water is an extremely complicated system. Instead of thinking about all those molecules pushing to and fro, we can instead consider a simplified scenario which is somewhat similar [4]. We will instead think about the two-dimensional surface of a billiard table and a single billiard ball. What happens if we give the ball an initial trajectory and watch as it bounces from wall to wall indefinitely [1]? This is a very simplified model of molecules smashing about in a soda glass, or atoms in a nuclear reaction, or other similar systems.

Once again we find ourselves in a situation where things are simple enough that we can make progress in understanding them but complicated enough to see interesting phenomena. It is known that on a circular or square table everything is determined by the angle of the first bounce of the ball against a wall. If that first angle is a rational multiple of pi radians, then the path of the ball is periodic. It will travel around in a closed path and it's not hard to calculate the path. But if the first angle is an irrational multiple of pi, then the path will never repeat itself. In fact, the ball's path eventually covers the entire billiard table in that given any point on the edge, if you wait long enough the ball will strike as close as you like to that point!

But even with a single ball on a billiard table there is much we don't know. For example, it's known that every billiard table which is an acute triangle (i.e., one in which all three angles are less than 90 degrees) has a starting trajectory which gives a periodic orbit. But this is unknown for other triangular billiard tables. The current state of the art is work by Richard Schwartz which shows that every triangle which has no angles larger than 100 degrees has a starting trajectory which leads to a periodic orbit. But what about a triangle with largest angle 103 degrees? So far nobody knows! Dr. Schwarz has a Java applet on his webpage called McBilliards which lets you play billiards on a triangular table.

Another famous example in this theory is the Bunimovich stadium. Leonid Bunimovich (a student of Sinai) showed that even on the uncomplicated billiard table shaped like a stadium you have chaotic paths. Balls which start nearby with similar trajectories can have widely divergent paths. Dr. Sinai also worked in this part of dynamical systems. In fact, the square billiard table with a circular obstruction in the center is now called the Sinai billiard table.

A path on the Sinai billiard table. From Wikipedia

Lest you think Dr. Sinai received the Abel prize for such simple games, I should be sure to mention that of course he also worked with much more realistic and challenging dynamical systems. But even in these small examples we see it's an amazingly rich and interesting field.

[0] Thanks to Duke University for the image.

[1] We are, of course, ignoring friction and all other unpleasantries of the real world.

[2] Thanks to Neil deGrasse Tyson for the quote.

[3] Thanks to Liquid Crystals and Photonics Group at Universiteit Gent for the image.

[4] One of the arts of mathematics is finding the sweet spot between problems which are so simple as to be boring and so hard we cannot make any progress on them.
by Jonathan Kujawa

In Oslo on May 19 John Nash and Louis Nirenberg received the 2015 Abel Prize for striking and seminal contributions to the theory of nonlinear partial differential equations and its applications to geometric analysis. The Abel Prize is barely a decade old but has quickly became one of the most prestigious awards in mathematics. To learn more about this year's winners, visit the Abel Prize webpage here. For an insight into the personalities of the two winners, I especially recommend these short videos.

This year's prize comes with sad news. On their way home from the award ceremony, John and Alicia Nash were killed in an auto accident. You can read the New York Times obituary here.

Last year at 3QD we talked about Yakov Sinai's work in dynamical systems. By coincidence this year's winners' work is closely related to the exotic non-Euclidean geometries we discussed at 3QD in March. It's a good chance to dig a little deeper into these topics and get the flavor of Nash and Nuremberg's work. Like last year I should say straight off that I'm not an expert, but I'm happy to talk about some cool mathematics.

John Nash, of course, is one of the most widely known mathematicians of the twentieth century. His life story was told by Sylvia Nasar in A Beautiful Mind. The book was made into an award-winning film of the same name starring Russell Crowe. It tells of Nash's brilliant work as a young man and his subsequent difficulties with mental health issues. It's a dramatic story and well worth watching the film. It should go without saying, but the movie turns the drama knob up to eleven and shouldn't be taken as an accurate depiction of Nash's life. For a more nuanced version of events I recommend Nasar's book.

The movie closes with John Nash winning the Nobel prize in Economics for his work in game theory. In game theory we use mathematics to study potential strategies, outcomes, etc., when two or more players are in competition. If you only think about tic-tac-toe, chess, and other such games it first it sounds like a mathematical trifle. But once you begin to look around you see players in competition everywhere: people and corporations in the marketplace, countries in geopolitics, species in evolutionary competition, etc. Game theory is serious business!

In his remarkably short (27 pages!) PhD thesis, Nash studied the following situation. Imagine there is a competition with some number of players, each with their own collection of strategies which they can use as they choose, and a payoff function which scores the outcome given each player's choice of strategy. Many real world situations can be fit into such a scenario.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that there is no room for chance in this sort of game: each player picks their strategy and the payoff function scores how well you and everyone else did in light of everyone's choices of strategy. You would think, then, that if everyone were to lay their cards on the table, so to speak, by revealing which strategy they planned to use, then at least one player should always be able use this knowledge to improve their outcome by tweaking their strategy.

Amazingly, Nash proved exactly the opposite. He proved that given any such competition  no matter how many players, what sorts of strategies they can employ, and how the payoff function scores the players  there will always be at least one configuration of strategies in which no single player can improve his outcome. Such a situation is now called a Nash Equilibrium of the competition.

Now it could be that if the players collaborate they may be able to collectively find a new configuration of strategies which makes some players better off. But in a pure competition where each player only looks out for their own interests, Nash tells us the players could find themselves trapped in a sub-optimal situation. You don't have to be much of cynic to see Nash Equilibria in the real world. We all might be better off if we payed more in taxes, had smaller militaries, or provided online citizens with strong privacy controls. Instead we each try to pay as little tax as we can, have arms races, and an Internet where you are the product, not the customer. Collectively we could improve our situation but change by a single individual leaves them worse off: paying more in taxes without the concomitant improvement in services, an undefended country in a hostile world, or a cave-dwelling anti-technology Luddite. Nash tells us that this can happen in any competition. Keep Nash in mind the next time some free marketeer tries to convince you that the Market always gets it right.

Image from Geek and Poke [1].

In the New York Times obituary Roger Myerson, an economist at the University of Chicago, compared the impact of Nash equilibrium on economics to that of the discovery of the DNA double helix in the biological sciences. But you may have noticed that the Abel Prize announcement made no mention of game theory. Instead Nash and Nirenberg are recognized for their contributions to differential equations and geometry. Indeed, previous Abel Prize winner Mikhail Gromov is quoted in the Abel Prize biography of Nash: What [Nash] has done in geometry is, from my point of view, incomparably greater than what he has done in economics, by many orders of magnitude.

What then about geometry? As we talked about in March, in addition to the usual planer geometry of Euclid we also have the non-Euclidean spherical and hyperbolic geometries. The essential difference is in how your geometric world bends: Euclidian geometry is in the flat, zero curvature world of a tabletop, spherical geometry is on the positive curvature surface of a sphere, and hyperbolic geometry is in the negative curvature surface of a Pringles potato chip. That is, if you are an ant standing on a tabletop, your world extends flatly in every direction, while on a sphere it bends downwards, and on the chip it bends upward.

Image from [2].

Of course if you have a God's eye view from the outside, it's easy to see which way a shape bends. But if you aren't an astronaut can you still tell that you live on a sphere? Sure, you say, I can just observe how ships sink below the horizon as they sail away. But what if you were a myopic ant? Can you tell the shape of your world just looking in your immediate neighborhood?

In his investigations of these new geometries Gauss discovered his Theorema Egregium (Remarkable Theorem) [3]. He proved that curvature is an intrinsic, local feature of a geometric object. That is, at every point you can determine which way the shape bends just from data in your immediate neighborhood. No need to see the shape as a whole, or to see it from a distance like an astronaut.

Gauss's theorem has a number of remarkable consequences. We all know the famous story of Eratosthenes using the solstice sun in Alexandria to measure the circumference of the Earth. But since the curvature of a sphere is just the reciprocal of the radius, even a myopic ant with a working knowledge of differential geometry could use what little he can see to recover Eratosthenes's result. There is a nice article in Wired about the Theorema Egregium and how it explains why corrugating strengthens cardboard and bending a pizza slice keeps it from being floppy.

Gauss's theorem raised an important distinction for geometers. On the one hand you have features of the shape which are intrinsic. These are those which can be measured while living on the shape and don't depend on the ambient space or on the observer having a God's eye view. Those which depend on the ambient space are called extrinsic. As you can imagine, geometers prefer intrinsic features. They consider them to be the real qualities of a geometric shape. You can talk about the intrinsic features completely independent of any reference to the ambient space. Extrinsic features feel arbitrary and accidental. They could easily be different the next time you run across a supposedly identical shape.

This raises the question of whether the intrinsic geometry actually determines a shape. In 1916 Weyl considered this question: if you have a putative geometric shape which at every point has positive (sphere-like) curvature, can you realize it as an actual shape in 3-dimensional space? The other winner of the Abel Prize, Nirenberg, proved in his PhD thesis that the answer is yes, you can realize every sphere-like shape as an honest to goodness shape in 3-dimensional space. In other words, by measuring the curvature at every point our myopic ant can reconstruct the shape of his entire world.

John Nash took this question to the next level. There are three kinds of 2-dimensional geometries (Euclidean, spherical, and hyperbolic), but in three and higher dimensions the number of possible geometries explode. These higher dimensional analogues are known as Riemann manifolds. In 2-dimensions we were interested in understanding the geometries where the nearby neighborhood of each point looks like a sheet of paper with some amount of curvature. Riemannian manifolds are spaces where every neighborhood looks like Euclidean space along with some intrinsic higher dimensional version of curvature. The question is then whether every such Riemannian manifold can be constructed in a nice Euclidean ambient space. Nash proved that they can!

This may sound a bit esoteric, but remember that string theory requires a geometry with something like eleven dimensions. There are trillions and trillions of such geometries. They have their own intrinsic features and it is they, not Euclidean geometry, which is the world we may live in. Nevertheless, we are most comfortable when we study old fashioned Euclidean geometry. When we study these exotic string theory geometries it is immensely helpful to know that we can safely pretend they live in Euclidean space. Similarly, Einstein's theory of relativity tells us that spacetime itself is an intrinsically curved 4-dimensional geometry. Nash's theorem tells us we can image spacetime living in a higher dimensional Euclidean space. This may sound like a complicating step, but in fact it's again a big simplification.

Nirenberg and Nash were also recognized for their work in differential equations. Very roughly speaking, this is the area of mathematics which focuses on the following question: if you have some unknown quantity or quantities and you know how they change, can you determine the quantities themselves? This question is ubiquitous in science: you may know the rate of change of a chemical reaction, or how an oil flow in a pipeline changes over time, or how wind velocities change as they flow over a wing in a wind tunnel, but can you describe the reaction/flow/wind-stream itself? Perhaps more surprisingly, differential equations are at the heart of the geometric questions we were just discussing. Nash and, especially, Nirenberg have made fundamental contributions to this area.

One of the most famous open questions in mathematics is about the Navier-Stokes differential equation. In fact, one of the seven $1,000,000 Millennium Prize problems is about solving the Navier-Stokes equation. The Millennium Prize problem is very much in the same spirit as the geometric questions we talked about above. The Navier-Stokes equation describes how fluids flow. The question is if you give me the Navier-Stokes equation for a possible fluid flow, can I find an actual fluid flow in 3-dimensional space which embodies this Navier-Stokes equation? Some of the best work on the Navier-Stokes equation is by Nirenberg working with Cafarelli and Kohn.

Image from [4].

Once again the Abel Prize committee has identified fantastic mathematicians who have done marvelous work. I look forward to next year's winners!

[1] Geek and Poke.

[3] From NASA's website where they discuss the shape of the universe.

[2] Remember, Gauss is also known for the Eureka Theorem. He seems to have had a talent for PR.

[4] Dhiren Mistry: Evolving Swirls, University of Cambridge.
by Jalees Rehman

Let others praise ancient times. I am glad that I was born in these.

 Ovid in Ars Amatoria

When I struggle with scientist's block, I play 1980s music with the hope that the music will inspire me. This blast from the past often works for me. After listening to the songs, I can sometimes perceive patterns between our various pieces of cell biology and molecular biology data that had previously eluded me and design new biological experiments. But I have to admit that I have never performed the proper music control studies. Before attributing inspirational power to songs such as 99 Luftballons, Bruttosozialprodukt or Billie Jean, I ought to spend equal time listening to music from other decades and then compare the impact of these listening sessions. I have always assumed that there is nothing intrinsically superior or inspirational about these songs, they simply evoke memories of my childhood. Eating comfort foods or seeing images of Munich and Lagos that remind me of my childhood also seem to work their muse magic.

My personal interpretation has been that indulging nostalgia somehow liberates us from everyday issues and worries  some trivial, some more burdensome  which in turn allows us to approach our world with a fresh, creative perspective. It is difficult to make such general sweeping statements based on my own anecdotal experiences and I have always felt a bit of apprehension about discussing this with others. My nostalgia makes me feel like an old fogey who is stuck in an ossified past. Nostalgia does not have a good reputation. The German expression Fruher war alles besser! (Back then, everything used to be better!) is used in contemporary culture to mock those who always speak of the romanticized past with whimsical fondness. In fact, the expression nostalgia was coined in 1688 by the Swiss medical student Johannes Hofer. In his dissertation Dissertatio Medica de Nostalgia oder Heimweh, Hofer used nostalgia as an equivalent of the German word Heimweh (home-ache), combining the Greek words nostos(homecoming) and algos (ache or pain), to describe a medical illness characterized by a melancholy that originates from the desire to return to one's homeland. This view of nostalgia as an illness did not change much during the subsequent centuries where it was viewed as a neurological or psychiatric disorder.

This view has been challenged by the University of Southampton researchers Constantine Sedikides and Tim Wildschut, who have spent the past decade studying the benefits of nostalgia. Not only do they disavow its disease status, they have conducted numerous studies which suggest that nostalgia can make us more creative, open-minded and charitable. The definition of nostalgia used by Sedikides and Wildschut as a sentimental longing for one's past is based on the contemporary usage by laypersons across many cultures. This time-based definition of nostalgia also represents a departure from its original geographical or cultural coinage by Hofer who viewed it as a longing for the homeland and not one's personal past.

In one of their most recent experiments, Sedikides and Wildschut investigate nostalgia as a mnemonic muse. The researchers first evoked nostalgic memories in participants with the following prompt:

Please think of a nostalgic event in your life. Specifically, try to think of a past event that makes you feel most nostalgic. Bring this nostalgic experience to mind. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic experience. How does it make you feel?

Importantly, each experiment also involved a control group of participants who were given a very different prompt:

Please bring to mind an ordinary event in your life. Specifically, try to think of a past event that is ordinary. Bring this ordinary experience to mind. Immerse yourself in the ordinary experience. How does it make you feel?

This allowed the researchers to compare whether specifically activating nostalgia had a distinct effect from merely activating a general memory.

After these interventions, participants in the nostalgia group and in the control group were asked to write a short story involving a princess, a cat and a race car. In an additional experiment, participants finished a story starting with the sentence: One cold winter evening, a man and a woman were alarmed by a sound coming from a nearby house. After 30 minutes, of writing, the stories were collected and scored for the level of creativity by independent evaluators who had no knowledge of the experimental design or group that the participants belonged to. Participants who had experienced more nostalgia wrote more creative prose!

This is just one example of the dozens of studies conducted by Sedikides and Wildschut which show the benefits of nostalgia, such as providing inspiration, increasing trust towards outsiders and enhancing the willingness to donate to charities. What is the underlying mechanism for these benefits? Sedikides and Wildschut believe that our nostalgic memories provide a sense of belonging and support, which in turn helps our self-confidence and self-esteem. The comfort of our past gives us strength for our future.

Does this mean that this longing for the past is always a good thing? Not every form of nostalgia centers on personal childhood memories. For example, there is a form of ideological nostalgia expressed by groups who feel disenfranchised by the recent progress and long for days of former power and privilege. The South African sociologists van der Waal and Robbins recently described the popularity of a song about the Anglo-Boer waramong white Afrikaans-speakers in the post-Apartheid era which may have been rooted in a nostalgic affirmation of white Afrikaner identity. It is conceivable that similar forms of ideological nostalgia could be found in other cultures and states where privileged classes and races are losing ground to increased empowerment of the general population.

It is important that we distinguish between these two forms of nostalgia  personal childhood nostalgia and ideological group nostalgia  before rehabilitating nostalgia's reputation. The research by Sedikides and Wildschut clearly demonstrates that nostalgia can be a powerful tool to inspire us but we have to ensure that it is not misused as am ideological or political tool to manipulate us.

References

1. de Diego, F. F., & Ots, C. V. (2014). Nostalgia: a conceptual history. History of psychiatry, 25(4), 404-411.

2. Sedikides, C., & Wildschut, T. (2016). Past Forward: Nostalgia as a Motivational Force. Trends in cognitive sciences (published online Feb 18, 2016)

3. van Tilburg, W. A., Sedikides, C., & Wildschut, T. (2015). The mnemonic muse: Nostalgia fosters creativity through openness to experience.Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 59, 1-7.

4. Van der Waal, K., & Robins, S. (2011). De la Rey'and the Revival of Boer Heritage': Nostalgia in the Post-apartheid Afrikaner Culture Industry. Journal of Southern African Studies, 37(4), 763-779.
by Jonathan Kujawa

On March 15th it was announced that Andrew Wiles won the 2016 Abel Prize. Established in 2002, the Abel Prize has become arguably the most prestigious prize in mathematics. In contrast to the Fields medal, which is awarded to those under 40, the Abel prize set itself as the prize which recognizes long term contributions to mathematics.

In keeping with tradition (see here: 2015, 2014) we're taking the opportunity to check out the math of behind the Abel Prize. This is the rare instance when the prizewinner's work appeared in the New York Times and may well need no introduction. Wiles won for

for his stunning proof of Fermats Last Theorem by way of the modularity conjecture for semistable elliptic curves, opening a new era in number theory.

 from the Abel Prize Announcement

Fermat's Last Theorem (FLT) is the claim that, for any n greater than or equal to three, there are no integer solutions to the equation

That is, you can't find numbers a, b, and c from among 0, 1, -1, 2, -2, which can be plugged into

and have the same number on both sides of the equal sign. The same goes if the six is replaced with a 3, or 2016, or 187,201, or any other number greater than or equal to three.

If you haven't heard of FLT before, it's hard to see why anyone should give a rat's rear end about whether nor not there are integer solutions to this equation. On the other hand, Fermat conjectured FLT in 1637 and here we are in 2016 giving Wiles the Abel Prize for proving that yes, indeed, there are no such solutions. Something interesting must be going on.

First off, FLT is a mathematical romance. Fermat was a French mathematician who squandered his days (and paid his bills) by being a lawyer. We ran into him last year when talking about Pascal's Wondertorium. Like any respectable mathematician of the day, he had a copy of Diophantus's Arithmetica. This was a book from the 3rd century which contained a series of interesting algebra problems which would be familiar to anyone who has wrestled with the quadratic formula [1]. One of the problems was to show that each square can be written as the sum of two squares (and so is closely related to the FLT when the n is two). Next to this problem, Fermat wrote:

It is impossible to separate a cube into two cubes, or a fourth power into two fourth powers, or in general, any power higher than the second, into two like powers. I have discovered a truly marvelous proof of this, which this margin is too narrow to contain.

To this day we have no idea if Fermat actually had a proof [2]. As is often the case in math, if a problem is easy to state and it's not trivial, then it is devilishly hard. Some progress was made in the intervening 350 years, but it was pretty much still a wide open unsolved problem when a 10 year old Andrew Wiles came across FLT at his local library. Wiles was one of those rare kids who actually achieved his childhood dream [3].

Part of the problem is that FLT ramps up from trivial to impossible on a nearly vertical trajectory.

If n equals one and you give me any integers a and b, then I can simply take their sum to find the corresponding c. Every pair (a,b) has its c. If n equals two, then things get a bit harder. If I take a and b to both be one, then I get 12+12=c2. That is, we need to find an integer which squares to 2. A quick check shows that nearly all integers are too big and the few that are small enough just don't do the job [4]. A little experimentation shows that 3, 4, and 5 make a perfectly good solution to the equation. And so does 6, 8, and 10, or 9, 12, and 15. In fact there are infinitely many solutions when n equals two. Once we've found one (like 3, 4, 5) we can multiply all three by any number we like and a little algebra shows we get another solution. When n equals two the solutions are called Pythagorean triples. We'll revisit them in a moment.

But when n equals three we hit the wall. We go from solutions being a dime a dozen when n equals one, to harder to find but still infinitely many when n equals two, to conjecturally zero when n equals three. It's hard to get any traction or see a pattern. What to do when you're stuck on a problem? A mathematician's favorite ruse is to change the question to one we can answer. It's a bit like setting out to discovery a drug which treats heart disease and ending up with one which gives four hour erections instead. But, hey, a win's a win, right?

From [5].

One direction we can go is to dig in on those not-trivial, non-impossible solutions when n equals two. These are called Pythagorean triples for the simple reason that the equation

is nothing but the formula from the Pythagorean Theorem. This is the equation which relates the three sides of a right triangle (and is flubbed in the Wizard of Oz). It has many, many proofs, including one hit upon by President James Garfield while discussing mathematics with members of Congress [6]. There are numerous proofs without words which go by geometry alone. Here on the side is one from a 1594 Arabic edition of Euclid's elements.

The study of Pythagorean triples goes back millennia. There is a Babylonian clay tablet from 1800 BC called the Plimpton 322 which contains a list of them. It's no surprise, then, that we know quite a lot about Pythagorean triples. From above we saw that if you have a Pythagorean triple, then any multiple will give you another triple. Let's call a triple primitive if it can't be gotten from another triple in this way.

If you pick any positive integers m and n, with m larger than n, the Euclid's formula:

gives you a Pythagorean triple. As long as m and n have no common factors and one is an even number and one is an odd number, then you get a primitive triple. Even better, every primitive triple can be made in this way. That is, every Pythagorean triple is nothing but the multiple of one obtained from Euler's formula!

Once you have the a and b of a Pythagorean triple, algebra gives you the c. We may as well ignore the c for a moment. If we plot the pairs (a,b) for the first few thousand Pythagorean triples, we see intriguing patterns:

From Wikipedia.

Indeed, exactly one of a and b is divisible by 3 and exactly one of them is divisible by 4. Exactly one of a,b,c is divisible by 5 and the largest number to divide the product abc is 60. The number c is always odd; in fact, it must be of the form 4k+1 for some integer k. Their strange properties go on and on. Pythagorean triples are far from random. Like the numbers in Pascal's Triangle they hold all sorts of surprises.

Nearly one hundred years ago, the famous Indian mathematician Ramanujan had the clever idea to study near misses of FLT. What if you found an a,b,c which almost gave a solution to the FLT when n equals three? Say you were off by only one. For example, 1353+1383=1723-1. Close, but no cigar! You can see this example and others in a page from Ramanujan's notebook. Ramanujan clearly had FLT on his mind.

Ramanujan had no luck in proving the FLT. In his notebook it looks like he was thinking about finding a solution when n equals three so as to show that FLT fails. In any case, he came up with a machine which generates infinitely many of these near misses. So while FLT itself has no solutions when n equals three, if you give yourself just the slightest flexibility you find you can make infinitely many near misses. Much like how there is infinitely many Pythagorean triples when n equals two. Just last year Ken Ono and Sarah Trebat-Leder showed that you can use Ramanujan's century old machine to generate infinitely many solutions to very modern elliptic curves.

With elliptic curves we come full circle. We ran across them here at 3QD them nearly two years ago. They are certain curves which play a fundamental role in modern mathematics. While they were invented while studying such seemingly useless questions like FLT, it turns out that they can be used to provide exotic number systems at the heart of modern cryptography (sometimes the things you find along the way turn out to be the billion dollar idea). They are also key to Wiles's proof of FLT. To each equation like those in FLT you can pair it with a certain elliptic curve. In this case the FLT equation is paired with the elliptic curve given by:



If you could find a solution a,b,c to FLT, then those numbers plugged into this equation would give you an elliptic curve with peculiar properties.

But there is another way to make elliptic curves. There are certain special functions on the upper half of the complex plane (called modular functions) and to each of these you can also attach an elliptic curve. Because of how nice modular functions are, these elliptic curves have to be equally nice. In the 1980s Frey, Serre, and Ribet proved that an elliptic curve coming from a solution to FLT would be so strange as to definitely not be nice enough to be one also coming from a modular function. But, on the other hand, the Taniyama-Shimura conjecture was that every elliptic curve of the kind coming from FLT must also come from a modular function! If Taniyama-Shimura was right, then every such elliptic curve is nice, which means no weird ones coming from solutions to FLT, which means no solutions to FLT, which means Fermat was right!

This connection brought FLT right into Wiles's wheelhouse. He is an expert on these sorts of questions. Wiles worked in secret [7] for seven years to prove the Taniyama-Shimura conjecture (or at least enough of it to cover the elliptic curves involving FLT). Excruciatingly, a gap in the proof was found after Wiles announced his result. Fortunately Wiles and Taylor were able to circumvent the gap and the complete proof was published in 1995.

While proving FLT is the shiny star on top, Wiles real contribution was to lead the way to a proof of the Taniyama-Shimura conjecture. The deep connections between number theory, geometry, and representation theory implied by this work go far, far beyond proving FLT. This is Wiles's real contribution and the reason for the Abel Prize. As always, deepening our understanding is the real goal. Wiles put it perfectly [8]:

Perhaps I can best describe my experience of doing mathematics in terms of a journey through a dark unexplored mansion. You enter the first room of the mansion and it's completely dark. You stumble around bumping into the furniture, but gradually you learn where each piece of furniture is. Finally, after six months or so, you find the light switch, you turn it on, and suddenly it's all illuminated. You can see exactly where you were. Then you move into the next room and spend another six months in the dark. So each of these breakthroughs, while sometimes they're momentary, sometimes over a period of a day or two, they are the culmination ofand couldn't exist withoutthe many months of stumbling around in the dark that proceed them.

[1] According to the modern library of Alexandria, Wikipedia, Arithmetica originally came in thirteen volumes, with only six surviving to the present. Amazingly, another four volumes were found in a shrine in Iran in 1968! It had been wrongly shelved at some point in the past. It makes you wonder how many ancient texts that we only know by reputation which are still out there somewhere.

[2] Almost certainly he didn't. Using the math Fermat knew, there are near proofs which deceptively look like they could do the trick but ultimately fail. The technology used by Wiles is literally centuries beyond Fermat's grasp. It is as if he said he knew how to design a fusion reactor, but the margin was too narrow to fit the schematics.

[3] I'm still holding out hope on being the world's first cowboy/astronaut/paleontologist.

[4] In fact, we need c=2, and the square root of two is definitely not an integer. In fact it is famously irrational (which means that it's not even the ratio of two integers). The discovery that the diagonal of a one by one square wasn't a fraction was a major shock to the Pythagoreans. Certainly this is not the sort of solution we, Diophantus, or Fermat would like to see.

[5] From the amazing History of Science collection at the University of Oklahoma. See here.

[6] How far we have fallen!

[7] FLT is one of those problems so famous (and famously hard) that it is embarrassing to admit you've spent time on it. I spent a few sunny summer days as an undergraduate thinking about 3D geometric arguments along the lines of the geometric proofs of the Pythagorean theorem. I only had a tan to show for my efforts.

[8] From this NOVA interview.
by Scott F. Aikin and Robert B. Talisse

We have never embraced political conservatism. However, we also think that the conservative tradition in American politics is intellectually formidable. We find the best representatives of that tradition to be rigorous, insightful, and philosophically astute. They are political commentators for whom ideas matter. In their best work we find proposals and principles that we think are incorrect, but never merely stupid.

And this is as it should be. The entire system of American democracy is based on the premise that reasonable, intelligent, and well-informed citizens of integrity and good-will might nevertheless disagree deeply and sharply about fundamental moral, social, and political matters. Many of the most familiar political and constitutional mechanisms of our politics are aimed at managing such reasonable disagreement among citizens in a way that all disputants could be expected to recognize as even-handed, fair, civil, and rational. What's more, reasoned yet deep disagreement among intelligent and sincere citizens is not some unfortunate obstacle that democratic citizens should wish could be surmounted; working through such disagreements while sustaining conditions of civility and stable governance simply is what modern democracy is all about.

In this way, a modern democratic society needs there to be combating traditions of political commitment. Those who tend to find conservatism lacking need there to be stalwart defenders of conservative views that are articulate and smart. And the same goes for those who tend to reject various forms of liberalism and progressivism; they need there to be formidable exponents of the views they oppose. As we have written in previous 3QD posts, and have argued in our book Why We Argue (And How We Should), the only responsible way to oppose a view is to oppose the best version of it, and this requires one to know the best arguments in its favor. To put the point dramatically, modern democracy is an intellectual ecosystem that thrives only under conditions of civil disagreement among sincere and intelligent citizens. Were one of the many longstanding and noble traditions of democratic political thought to disappear from the public debate, the entire system would suffer.

It is clear that the contemporary Republican Party in the US is in the midst of an internal crisis that threatens to disrupt the intellectual environment of democracy itself. Judging from the pronouncements from those leading the contest for the Republican presidential nomination, conservatism is not a set of ideas that need intellectual articulation defense. It is rather a political stance defined strictly by vague depictions what it opposes: big government, Washington elites, Hollywood liberals, socialists, foreigners, Muslims, the mainstream media, and so on. One searches in vain for a careful and detailed discussion of these opponents, and no plausible story about how such threats are best combatted has been formulated. For the Republican frontrunners, there are bogeymen at the door, and hence there is no use in debating political ideas or weighing arguments; it is enough simply to call attention to the threats and express outrage. The rich intellectual underpinnings of conservatism have been lost, and we're all worse off for it.

That the Republican Party should find itself lacking a presidential candidate with the intellectual skills required for articulating a coherent argument for conservative politics is not difficult to explain. The trouble with political conservatism in America is that for the past fifty years, its central ideals have been growing increasingly unpopular with the American citizenry. The sociological, demographic, and economic explanations of this need not detain us. The fact is that the core conservative values of personal responsibility, self-reliance, restrained government, shared community, and the moral authority of tradition have lost their grip on the American people; the conservative values have given way to tendencies that conservatives must regard as base and uncivilized: insatiable appetites for luxury, excess, spectacle, and power, all of which are social forces that dissolve tradition and foster divisions. It is no accident that W.F. Buckley Jr. defined conservatives as standing athwart history yelling, Stop!

This cultural shift naturally presented a challenge to the Republican Party, which was faced with a social reality in which winning elections on the basis of their core values was becoming increasingly unlikely. Again, conservative intellectuals understood that their ideas were bound to be seen as out of step. Realizing this, they searched for other ways to win elections. What was needed was a way to build a political coalition among people who ultimately have little in common. And this required a strategy by which deep-seated divisions could be overshadowed by some unifying purpose. With the citizenry divided, this unifying purpose needed to be manufactured.

Alas, the formation of political unity is not as difficult as it may seem, for it is easy to construct nemeses: social and cultural forces that threaten to thwart, disfigure, nullify, or dilute whatever makes America great. Note that in manufacturing such an antagonist, one mustn't get specific about the nature or target of the threatening body. It is enough to simply characterize it as alien and hostile, or debauched and decadent, thereby allowing each citizen to fill in the details however he or she sees fit. The rest is left unsaid, and although this lacuna was presented as a matter of etiquette, it was actually practiced as a matter of strategy. A silent majority doesn't speak. And insofar as it doesn't speak, it doesn't speak to itself; fixated on the threats presented by vaguely characterized bogeymen, it cannot discover how deep its internal divisions run.

It is crucial to remember that the Republican strategy initially was to manufacture a unifying enemy for the purpose of winning elections. Once in office, Republicans could govern according to the traditional conservative values that they had downplayed or omitted from the narrative while campaigning. To be sure, this kind of bait-and-switch may seem cynical and disingenuous, but it is arguably the stuff out of which democratic politics is made.

The most recent national election cycles have shown the hazard of this strategy. The bait-and-switch has come full circle: The artificial foe has become the concrete enemy, the instrument has become the end, and the rhetoric has become the substantive message. At least since Reagan's campaign, the Republican Party has undergone a fateful transformation, most evident in the progression from Newt Gingrich's Contract with America to the Tea Party and Sarah Palin to Donald Trump and Ted Cruz. The resentment, anxiety, and fear that was once deployed as a device to motivate voting behavior is now the official party platform.

In this way, the Republican Party is no longer conservative; it's most visible members are no longer devoted to ideas of any kind. In fact, they seem committed explicitly to the premise that ideas do not matter. This stance, crucially, places them beyond critique, including self-critique. And it also is bad for the Democrats; as the Republicans offer only slurs, innuendo, and insults, neither seeker of the Democratic nomination has had to publicly defend against serious challenges and hold their own against real criticism.

We think it unlikely that the GOP will prevail in the upcoming general election. And we think that this is good news for the country. But, ultimately, the news is bad for our politics. The current contest for the GOP nomination has demonstrated to future GOP office-seekers that in order to get the support of voters who tend to identify with the Republican Party, one must vilify ideas as such and instead communicate solely in one-liners  empty slogans, vulgar innuendo, and childish insults. It has shown that conservatives who want to succeed at politics must give up on the project of articulating and defending conservative ideas. It has given good reason to think that in order to succeed, conservatives must become pitchmen selling the GOP brand. But traditionally conservatism was the idea that values are more than brands to be advertised and sold. In short, in the contest for the Republican presidential nomination we are witnessing the end of the Party. And that's a loss to us all.
The North Carolina Community College System is poised to become a national leader in career and college readiness. At a time when there is a spotlight on both high schools and community colleges to do a better job preparing students for prosperous careers, the North Carolina Community College System has taken several key steps toward that goal.Evidence of the problem is clear: A recent report by the Center for Community College Student Engagement (CCCSE) found that 68 percent of community college students require at least one remedial education class. Furthermore, students who must take remedial classes often do not progress to credit-bearing courses. Only 28 percent earned a degree or certificate within eight years.The CCCSE says the first step to solve this issue is to improve skill assessment measurements. Historically, colleges relied on either standardized test scores or general placement exams to determine a student's need for remediation. But studies have shown that these measures are poor indicators of a student's actual skills and potential for success at the college level. The North Carolina legislature addressed this issue in 2013 by adopting the North Carolina Multiple Measures for Placement policy. Under this policy, students are evaluated on a number of measures, which now include grade point average and transcript data in addition to standardized and placement test scores.Data from Davidson County Community College showed that students placed using the new GPA measures succeeded in their first year at a higher rate in both English and math, than did their peers placed into courses based on the other criteria. Specifically, 65 percent of students placed with GPA data achieved a grade of C or better, while only 48 percent of their peers achieved the same success.In the years that followed the adoption of the Multiple Measures for Placement policy, the percentage of students who enrolled in remedial classes dropped significantly-from 63 percent in 2012, to 52 percent in 2013, to 42 percent in 2014.In addition to new assessment measures, representatives of the community college system worked with leaders from the Department of Public Instruction and the University of North Carolina System to articulate a clear definition of career and college readiness. This definition allowed for curriculum alignment between levels of education, and enabled a smoother transition for students.Utilizing the new measures and articulated goals, the Community College System is now on the cusp of an even bigger reform: fundamentally changing the delivery of remedial education in the state of North Carolina.In 2015 the North Carolina General Assembly instructed the State Board of Community Colleges (SBCC) to develop a plan to shift remedial math and English courses from the community college level into high schools, which required students who do not meet certain criteria during their junior year to attend remedial classes during their senior year.The law set broad regulations for the SBCC to follow regarding: the establishment of assessment standards for placement in remediation; the design of high school remedial curriculum; and measures of successful completion of these courses. Staff members from the SBCC recently unveiled a proposal to institute regional pilot programs, which are ready for launch for the 2016-17 academic year.The proposal recommended the establishment of three regions: the Central region which includes Davidson County, Randolph, and Vance-Granville community colleges; the Eastern region that has Brunswick and Coastal Carolina community colleges; and the Western region, which includes A-B Technical and Central Piedmont colleges. Within each region at least two high schools are required to launch pilot programs within the next year.The proposal utilizes the same indicators established by the Multiple Measures for Placement policy: 11th grade assessment scores, cumulative GPA, and scores on standardized tests. Students who do not meet the minimum benchmarks during their junior years will be required to enroll in remedial coursework.As for the precise courses to be offered, the SBCC report highlighted three different strategies that are already utilized across the state, which it recommended should be further tested and built upon.The first program highlighted is the Network Resources Open College and Career (NROC) Project, which offers students customized math and English programs by utilizing pre-assessment tools to adapt content to specific proficiency gaps. This program is currently utilized at Central Piedmont Community College in bridge programs, and to help prepare students for placement tests. similar program has been in place in Tennessee since 2011. Participation in the Tennessee Seamless Alignment and Integrated Learning Support program uses personalized online learning, with instant feedback to provide individual support to students. The program is expected to be used by 17,000 students this year, and has had a 91 percent success in achieving college-ready math competency in the first four years.The second program, currently in use at Davidson County Community College, is the College Transition Center. This method pairs technology-based learning with teacher-led group lessons and individualized attention. The SBCC report suggests using this method as a summer bridge program, which could be followed by enrollment in a NROC-like program.Finally, the report suggests utilization of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Math Ready course . This course is already used by high schools in the state, and fulfills the fourth math requirement of the Multiple Measures for Placement policy. The course teaches basic foundational concepts, usually spread across different math classes. Randolph Community College has already partnered with Asheboro High School to align the content of the Math Ready course with college-ready standards, to further improve the learning outcomes.The report concluded with the recommendation to establish regional taskforces comprised of faculty from high school and community colleges to discuss curriculum alignment, to develop courses to fulfill agreed-upon objectives, and to enact an evaluation plan.Despite this very promising step toward reformation of a clearly defunct remediation system, there are two potentially important factors left unanswered in the SBCC progress report.First, there is presumably a cost associated with the pilot program-particularly licensing new software-and neither the original legislation nor the report allocate or address funding sources.Secondly, at a time when the average age of community college students is 29, a sizable percentage of students are not entering college straight from high school. The SBCC must focus on remedial education to these students as well.However, the progress already made highlights an important accomplishment for public education in North Carolina. Unlike the majority of institutions nation-wide, neither community colleges nor high schools are deflecting responsibility for increasing the college and career success of the state's students. The program as outlined in the report stands to thrust North Carolina into the spotlight as a potential leader in altering the way colleges deliver remedial education.
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.
Online accounting software enables accountants to elevate their proactive advisory services and provide new models of outsourced financial services.

And as more CPAs and their clients are clamoring for the real-time collaboration of the cloud, a range of accounting solutions are emerging to suit business owners of various sizes and industry verticals.

From large accounting firms offering a variety of accounting and bookkeeping solutions for their varied customer bases, to specialized practices building their service offerings on a single platform, accountants are embracing these online accounting solutions to the benefit of their and their clients businesses.

Anywhere access

Firm: Bright Bookkeeping

Users: 1-2

No. of clients served: 24-25

Product: QuickBooks Online/QuickBooks Online Accountant

Commencement date: 2013

On record: Owner Cindy Schroeder

Process: In business for eight years, Schroeder completely transformed her bookkeeping practice three years ago, transferring and onboarding new clients to QuickBooks Online. The switch from QuickBooks desktop to the cloud cut down on the stress of client visits and travel so Schroeder could devote more time to her clients books.

When bringing on new clients, Schroeder matches them with the appropriate accounting solution, recognizing that sometimes if theyre not tech-savvy at all, [QBO] might not be the best, but for the most part clients are pretty open to trying QuickBooks Online. Their technical proficiency is really secondary, however, as long as they get the information they need. Schroeder reports that the clients that have moved from desktop to Online like it much better.

There is a learning curve, which Schroeder helps clients navigate with a short training session on QBO.

Advantages: Even initially reluctant clients have found perks in the cloud. One Bright Bookkeeping client in particular would mistakenly grab the wrong files when exchanging multiple documents with Schroeder, so although initially hesitant to put her data on QBO, when I explained that we were both logging into one screen and thus avoiding working on the wrong or incomplete files, the client was convinced.

For her part, Schroeder likes the dashboard in QBOA. The screen keeps her informed on all her clients, whether she works with them weekly, quarterly or annually. In the dashboard, Schroeder can quickly see any problems, like a failed download in the banking column, and call that client to offer help, which also adds to a new sales opportunity. QBOA is a great tool to prioritize what Im doing for the day, she added.

Challenges: Schroeder would like to see more customization in the dashboard, with the ability to add other columns, like the work she does for clients on Intuit Online Payroll, to keep abreast of deadlines and other urgent information.

Next steps: Schroeder will continue to grow her business, taking advantage of her ability to truthfully work from anywhere with QuickBooks Online and QBOA. The anytime, anywhere access of the cloud has been huge, and makes life easier.

Not your parents system

Firm: Withum

Users: 5 Xero-certified advisors

No. of clients served: Hundreds

Product: Xero

Commencement date: 2013

On record: Technology partner Jim Bourke

Process: When Bourke was introduced to Xero in the early days of the New Zealand-based company opening its first U.S. office, It was the first time I came across a cloud-based accounting system that didnt carry legacy baggage with it. It had really cool dashboards that pushed financial metrics to our clients.

The clients in Bourkes practice, specifically, are in the technology sector, so they appreciate Xeros delivery of quick metrics in a very graphical format.

Xero is one of several accounting systems that Top 100 Firm Withum provides clients, though it is well-suited to the firms technology entrepreneur clientele, who really get the Internet, the value of SaaS and Web-based solutions, Bourke said. Those business owners dont want to read balance sheets and P&Ls, he explained, preferring revenue and growth numbers.

For Withum clients that arent in the technology space, it is a harder sell to transition someone from legacy accounting systems, Bourke explained, so most of those clients use QuickBooks. I dont push an accounting system on anyone. I let the clients know whats out there in the marketplace, and let them make their own decision.

Advantages: Xero is not like your mom and dads accounting system, but an accounting system for running todays businesses, in my view, that want financial information as quickly as they get digital information, Bourke explained. Xero monitors your business as its happening, looking at real-time information.

Bourke also touts Xeros low price point, which is particularly attractive for bootstrapped start-ups.

Challenges: On the other hand, more complicated businesses, like those in manufacturing, might not find Xero to be the best fit. But thats why no one [system] is right for everyone across the board, and why [Withum] partners with a few different vendors.

Meanwhile, Xero continues to enhance its software and services based on customer feedback, adding payroll processing in more states and partnering with third-party vendors to offer new capabilities.

Next steps: Bourke plans to continue educating his staff on Xero, both its use and identifying ideal clients for the solution. He will also be monitoring new relationships that Xero forges with third-party vendors and value-added resellers.

Higher expectations

Firm: Rehmann

Users: 10-12

No. of clients served: 12

Product: Intacct

Commencement date: 2011

On record: Manager Angela Harvey

Process: While Top 100 Firm Rehmann added Intacct into the firms portfolio of solutions, which includes a significant QuickBooks Online practice, more than four years ago, the firm only really ramped up the offering two years ago, according to Harvey.

The firm leverages Intacct to provide full outsourced accounting services, whether repurposing a whole accounting department or taking over for an administrator in a growing business where the books have gotten too complicated.

The firm found Intacct to be a great way to provide a more powerful tool to our consultants who serve clients in the health care services industry. Practitioners that have unique, interesting compensation calculation structures tend to be the best fit for us, Harvey explained.

Advantages: One of the things we like, being a part of it, is the opportunity to present on a dashboard basis, Harvey said. We are more involved in understanding the questions asked by clients on a regular basis instead of quarterly or annually  we are more proactive on what we bring to the table  it brings the level of consulting even higher.

Challenges: That higher level can be overwhelming to some clients, Harvey acknowledged, so part of the firms job is also getting people to think outside of the box and [trying] to focus on new business instead of the existing business.

Offering clients more consistent and higher-visibility services does create a higher expectation of reaching out more often, Harvey explained, adding that Intacct gives me the tools to be very strategic.

Next steps: While Rehmann will continue to drive the message of Intacct internally, Harvey is also looking forward to some new features from the company, including a bank and credit card feed. She has also reaped the advantages of the solutions newer social component, Collaborate, which is changing the way we communicate with clients and the internal team, with the information on hand.

Investing in outsourcing

Firm: CFO Incorporated

Users: 27

No. of clients served: 34

Product: Acumatica

Commencement date: 2012

On record: President and partner Pam Sahsi

Process: CFO Inc., which provides businesses with custom-designed financial service packages, tried to do something different with accounting, according to Sahsi. We have a franchise accounting model. There are a lot of businesses going to India because of talent. What we did differently from companies outsourcing bookkeeping and accounting to India, is that rather than outsourcing to a firm there, we hired our own staff and opened our own office in India.

CFO Inc. has a staff of 20 in India that provides accounting services mostly to franchise restaurant clients in Canada. Sahsi sought a single accounting platform to streamline the companys accounting processes and eventually stumbled across Acumatica, which worked out perfect.

With the software, Sahsi could put all clients in one database to offer them full-cycle accounting and bookkeeping services in Acumaticas multi-tenancy environment. The solution is also scalable, with CFO Inc. able to add an unlimited number of users as we grow and my staff grows  we started off as a staff of 10 and we are now over 20, as we continue adding customers and spreading across Canada and with staff around the world.

Advantages: We found Acumatica to have more seamless architecture, as it was built for the cloud initially, Sahsi explained. It didnt seem to have legacy issues and had the latest technology. It gives the customer a really good experience, with good dashboards.

Acumatica is also responsive to feedback. After Sahsi approached the head programmer at the companys user conference, his team was able to customize some of the solutions reporting capabilities for her company. And because CFO Inc. has been using Acumatica for a number of years and hosts the solution on a private cloud, the cost is relatively low.

Challenges: Sahsi recognizes her business is not using the full force of the software  theres a lot more in there, though most clients rarely log into the system. A few of the more sophisticated clients will be more hands-on, like one accountant client who prefers to log in and access, send and print checks himself.

Next steps: Acumatica offers a greater business intelligence capability that CFO Inc. is starting to work with, pulling reports from the system right into Excel. And, again, We need to utilize a lot of the dashboards that are already there, Sahsi added.
A roundup of our favorite recent tax fraud cases.

Bismarck, N.D.: Preparer Solomon Lindsay, 39, has been sentenced to time served plus three years of supervised release on three counts of tax fraud and been ordered to pay $300 to the Crime Victims Fund as well as restitution to the IRS.

Investigation revealed that for the tax years 2009 through 2012, Lindsay ran a tax service out of his apartment and created a scheme to file returns on behalf of others, mainly family and friends, that included inflated income figures and false credits.

Each return then requested a false refund; Lindsay e-filed the returns and deposited all the refunds in his personal account. Each taxpayer received a smaller refund than requested while Lindsay skimmed a substantial amount of the money.

The scam resulted in the IRS paying out fraudulent refunds totaling $140,741.

San Diego: Tax preparer Melissa Ann Vega, a.k.a. Lisa Vega, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after admitting that she filed more than 3,500 false federal income tax returns and that she committed tax evasion and stole the IDs of minors and others to steal more than $7 million in bogus refunds.

Vega, owner of L&T Works, was sentenced on charges of conspiracy to file false, fictitious and fraudulent claims for federal tax refunds, tax evasion and aggravated ID theft. As detailed in her plea agreement, from at least December 2009 through last April, Vega falsified clients returns without their knowledge or consent, claiming thousands of dollars in false education expenses and undeserved tax credits. Vega told her co-conspirators and employees that they should maximize clients refunds by filing for a $4,000 education credit even though the clients did not attend school for that tax year. To conceal her role, Vega intentionally omitted her name and PTIN on the false returns.

In total, Vegas fraud caused the IRS to pay more than $7 million in inflated refunds based solely on the false education credits. Moreover, Vega admitted that she and her co-conspirators stole the IDs of other persons, including minors, and used them on the false returns to further inflate the refunds.

In addition to charging her clients between $150 and $200 per return, Vega also admitted that she stole more than $300,000 in false refunds from her clients by directing the money into bank accounts that she controlled. Vega also admitted that she evaded her own income taxes and filed false personal returns in which she fraudulently claimed withholding credits, education credits and tax credits for minor dependents that she did not support and who were not related to her.

According to court documents, she evaded more than $156,000 in taxes due to the IRS for tax years 2009 through 2013.

Vega was arrested on gun charges on Dec. 16, 2014. On Jan. 28, 2015, she was released on bond and ordered not to commit any federal crimes  specifically filing false returns  while in the community. Nonetheless, Vega once again began filing false returns with the IRS within days of her release. To cover up her activity, Vega agreed with a co-conspirator for the latter to act as owner and preparer for the returns filed in February 2015. Vega actually continued as the owner of her tax prep business and prepared the false returns.

Vega was again arrested on Feb. 25, 2015. Her co-conspirator pled guilty to providing false statements to the grand jury and is set for sentencing on April 1.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of several firearms seized from Vegas residence during the execution of a search warrant in April 2014, including a sawed-off shotgun, a 9-mm. handgun and ammunition. Vegas husband was sentenced to 30 months for possessing the unregistered sawed-off shotgun.

The court ordered Vega to pay $7,176,836 restitution to the IRS. Further, as part of her plea agreement, Vega agreed to be permanently enjoined from ever preparing or filing federal income tax returns for anyone other than herself. A permanent injunction will be entered by the IRS to prevent Vega from acting as a tax preparer in the future.

Separately, three more defendants have entered guilty pleas admitting their roles in the conspiracy.

Manchester, N.H.: Preparer Okello Odongo, 36, of Snellville, Ga., pleaded guilty to 19 counts of filing false returns and fraudulently obtaining refunds.

Odongo operated a Manchester tax prep business called Tax Smart Solutions Co., where in 2011 and 2012 he filed false returns on behalf of some clients that overstated the refunds they were entitled to claim. Odongo also filed Allocation of Refund Forms that directed the IRS to e-deposit the fraudulent portions of the refunds to bank accounts he held or had access to. None of Odongos clients knew that he used their doctored returns to defraud the IRS.

The maximum for each of the 19 charges Odongo pleaded guilty to is five years in prison. Sentencing is June 22.

Harrisburg, Pa.: Preparer Felix Ramon Diaz, 56, has been indicted on 45 counts of aiding and assisting the preparation of false tax documents. Authorities said he owned Felix Tax Service where from 2010 through 2013 he filed 45 returns with false and fraudulent income, deductions and addresses to inflate refunds. His conduct resulted in approximately $100,000 in taxes due.

Cincinnati: Preparer Walter T. Boyd, 37, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $110,467 restitution to the IRS for willfully filing false claims for federal income tax refunds.

According to court documents, between February 2010 and April 2012, Boyd, who pleaded guilty in October, prepared and e-filed income tax returns with the IRS for the 2010 and 2011 income tax years in the names of clients of his employer, ABT Services. These returns claimed false refunds that Boyd knew the clients were not entitled to receive.

Boyd prepared approximately 300 returns for the 2010 and 2011 income tax years that directly contributed to the submission of false claims for refunds of approximately $400,000 to $1 million.
(Bloomberg) NOTICE OF INTENT TO LEVY

It wasn't a very nice way to begin a letter, but then, it was from the Internal Revenue Service, and it got Greg's attention.

The Athens, Georgia, veteran said the notice, which arrived earlier this year, cited three months of taxes he had failed to pay two years agoand was the first he'd heard of it.

After leaving the military, Greg , then 27, had taken a job in information technology. I guess when I filled out my taxes for 2013 I messed something up, so I didnt get my private-sector job included into the taxes owed, he said. Now he was into the Treasury Department for more than $1,700.

The IRS doesnt keep track of how many millennials incur tax debt, but a survey by personal finance adviser NerdWallet found they are more afraid of filing their taxes than any other generation. Eighty percent of millennials, defined by the survey as 18 to 34 years old, fear they will make a mistake, underpaying or overpaying.

Putting aside outright tax cheats, young workers are financially inexperienced and, increasingly, part of a gig economydriving for Uber, funding their creative work through Patreonthat requires more care with taxes than some are able, or willing, to take. For example, people who work in contract jobs typically don't have their taxes withheld automatically and need to set up a program of quarterly estimated tax payments on their own.

Digging their tax trap deeper, fewer than 10 percent of millennials go to the IRS when they have a tax question, and only about a quarter seek help from a tax professional, the survey found, compared with 38 percent of all taxpayers who seek help from a tax pro. Instead, most young people turn to friends and family, a largely unreliable if well-meaning group. Millennial taxpayers in particular bemoan the long wait times on the phone with the IRS and the agency's weird penchant for mail (like, mail).

It took at least five hours of your life just getting somebody on the phone, said Greg, who said he placed four or five calls to the agency seeking to confirm the letters validity before signing up for a payment plan on its website. There needs to be more notification and communication on their part.

This month, Greg made his first contribution to an IRS tax debt repayment plan, which he said was easy enough to set up. He'll be making a $150 payment every month until he has repaid the debt. Starting this tax season, he's working with a certified public accountant.

"Someone facing a tax bill they can't pay can usually set up a payment agreement," IRS spokesman Eric Smith said. Indeed, even if the agency isn't so hot on the phone, it will send multiple letters urging debtors to set up plans before threatening them, if necessary, with levies and liens. Resources are available on the IRS website, agents regularly describe payment plans to those who get through on the phone, and accountants work with the agency to devise plans for their clients.

"If you don't contact us, we can take action to collect the taxes," Smith said.

That said, millennials are less likely to own homes than generations before them, so the threat of a property lien doesn't carry the weight it might, and a change of rental address can cut the letters off altogether. Anthony, a 24-year-old based in Washington, D.C., incurred just over $1,000 of tax debt after he tried to claim an education credit on his 2013 taxes that his parents had already claimed. He sent in a correction of the error but then lost his job and couldn't pay the balance.

When he moved in September of 2014, the letters stopped coming.

It was an out-of-sight, out-of-mind thing, he said.

In fact, the IRS was nothing compared to the creditors who were after Anthony for his student debt, he said. The following year, what would have been his tax refund was taken to pay off a portion of the outstanding debt. Employed by that time, he was able to pay the balance.

I still dont rank them anywhere near as scary as Sallie Mae, Anthony said of the IRS. They were very slow to catch on to it. With Sallie Mae, they immediately start calling you on the phoneand start calling your parents. Sallie Mae is everything the IRS does, but on 'roids.

While credit card companies collecting student debt can affect a debtor's credit scores immediately, tax debt doesn't begin to influence them unless levies and liens are issued, and enrolling in a repayment plan won't affect the scores either. Yet of the seven millennials facing tax debts interviewed for this article, only two were familiar with these plans, and neither of them knew that signing on to one wouldn't affect their scores.

I dont think anyone should be afraid of the IRS, because as long as youre talking to them, bad things dont happen, said Cari Weston, director of taxation for the American Institute of CPAs.

Erik Duemig and his brother Joe, who own a production sound company in Austin, Texas, fell into tax debt when they made what Erik described as a series of clerical errors on a 2014 filing. At 26, the twins had filed taxes only a few times before, and were previously filing as contract employees, not business owners. Eventually, they hired a certified public accountant for $1,200, but only after Joe had been audited.

Few of the Duemigs' millennial friends hold down a traditional job with its W2 tax form, they said, citing a culture that relies heavily on the gig economy.

For millennials who are making money on the Internet, like YouTube ad sales and things like Patreon, I imagine that kind of income stream gets really weird to deal with the IRS, Erik said.

Millennials who find themselves in debt to the agency have more constructive options than neglecting debt letters and less expensive ones than hiring a CPA. Tax tutorials are available online, and the Society of Grownups, a Brookline, Massachusetts, financial literacy group, offers two classes, Quarterly Schmarterly and Get Off Your Tax. Each costs $30. In one class, a third of those in attendance owed money to the IRS, said Jena Palisoul, director of financial planning.

"Some people get so frightened, they take no action whatsoever," she said, "and thats the worst thing to do.

Smith of the IRS acknowledged "it can be a while" on the phone but said "it's better than it was last year, as Congress provided us with some increase in funding for the phone operations. We really encourage people to [seek help] online first."

"I think they are trying to speak to everyone in a more technology-friendly way," said Weston. "They're tweeting, they're trying to get representatives out there ... but with all this identity theft they are being very cautious about communicating with taxpayers digitally."

Even so, "it was all very poorly communicated to us by the IRS, Duemig said.

He added: "Tax law, it almost feels, like, intentionally complicated. It just tires you out so you just pay more than you need to.
For the second year in a row on March 25, 2016, the French association Resistance against Advertising Aggression (RAP) (Resistance a lAgression Publicitaire) partnered with international allies and activists from around the world to speak out against advertising. This movement was launched from the Tunis call by hundreds of activists from the five continents at the World Social Forum.

The first global anti-ad contestation day on March 25, 2015 was launched at the World Social Forum in Tunisia via the Tunisia call for action, which was supported by hundreds of participants across all continents. One year later, the Resistance a lAgression Publicitaire called for activists across the globe to carry on and expand the international mobilisation against the advertising industry.

March 25 was chosen as the day of protest as it marked the anniversary of a French courts decision confirming the legitimacy of the common struggle. On March 25, 2013, a constitutional court judge found a group of anti-advertising activists from Les Deboulonneurs group not guilty of degradation. The group had publicly and symbolically spray-painted advertising billboards in 2009, but they were acquitted in the name of freedom of speech and reason of necessity against advertising oppression. This 2013 ruling can act as a call to action for all those around the world seeking to challenge the role of corporate advertising in our lives.

In a note issued, RAP said, Everywhere around us, advertising encroaches into our everyday lives, pollutes our minds, shifts our cultural values and dominates the media. Advertisers spend 700 billion globally each year, and this expenditure is constantly growing. Adverts are everywhere. So, lets mobilise wherever they are found.
(This feature is part of the " Through Airmen's Eyes " series. These stories focus on individual Airmen, highlighting their Air Force story.)Just shy of her third birthday, an international conflict broke out between Bosnia and Serbia. Today, at the age of 26, conflict continues to be part of 1st Lt. Amela Kamencics daily life.Kamencic, a former Bosnian refugee and the 379th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron operations engineering officer-in-charge, recalls when everything changed as the U.S. Air Force deployed to assist in Operation Deny Flight. Showing deep gratitude for those who helped during that mission, she later joined and now does her part in Operation Inherent Resolve.Before the U.S. arrived, Bosnian men left to fight and there was no way of knowing if they were coming back, Kamencic said. This left many women, children and the elderly behind.Living close to the Bosnian and Serbian border, those in her village learned to fend for themselves. Many were hungry and needed medical care.Neighboring countries would provide some humanitarian aid, she said. I remember waiting in long lines for stale bread with my mom, which was our food for the day.As Serbian troops moved into Bosnia, various concentration camps were built, which contained thousands of Bosnian men. Kamencic compared the concentration camps, massive graves and land mines to a scene from Behind Enemy Lines, which is a movie based on the Bosnian War.My uncle was captured and sent to a concentration camp, she said. He was released a few months later when the camp was liberated, and sent to Croatia to be nursed back to health before moving to America.In November 1996, Kamencics family landed in America. Along with her mom, dad and sister, they first arrived in Washington, D.C., and ultimately settled down in Austin, Texas. Excited to live with unfamiliar freedoms and opportunities of the American Dream, the lieutenant soon realized her childhood was very different from others.I was in the school lunch line, and I had money in my pocket to pay for it; we had been in Texas for almost nine months and we werent moving around anymore she said.Growing up, part of Kamencics American Dream was to join the Air Force.I remember seeing A-10 (Thunderbolt IIs) and F-15 (Eagles) flying to establish a no-fly zone in Bosnia and it restored hope to become its own country. To this day they are my favorite airframes, she said.The idea of serving in the military stuck with her all those years and it became a reality in December 2012. Kamencic was commissioned as a second lieutenant through the Air Force ROTC at the University of Texas.I knew that the Air Force is where I belonged, she said. I can never thank the (Air Force) enough for saving my life and my service to our great nation is a way of expressing my gratitude. Home is now where the (Air Force) sends me.In January, Kamencic deployed to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, in support of OIR. She took a long journey once again, but this time departing where her U.S. journey first began -- Washington, D.C. She will redeploy to Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, in July and plans to marry a fellow Air Force officer in the fall.
28th BW reflects on Odyssey Dawn launch

Just over five years ago, a phone rang in the 28th Bomb Wing vice commander's office and made history.



Less than 72 hours later, on March 27, 2011, more than 1,100 maintenance personnel launched four B-1 bombers from the Ellsworth AFB flightline in blizzard conditions to support Operation Odyssey Dawn. It was the first time the aircraft had ever launched from a continental U.S. location in support of combat operations.



Two B-1s and their eight-person crew would continue on and strike targets in Libya; however, the mission required communication and personnel working round-the-clock to be executed.



"I was about half-way through the planning process [of a training sortie], and rumors were making their way around about base leadership convening at the command post," said Maj. Matthew, weapons system officer for the operation's lead B-1. "At about 1 p.m., I was called to the command post with a pilot in my squadron. We were both qualified mission commanders, which clued me in that whatever was going on was likely a real-world event."



Maj. Matthew and many aviators within the 34th and 37th Bomb Squadrons, as well as maintenance and munitions personnel, were briefed that preparations were underway to organize a strike mission more than 6,000 miles away in Libya.



In less than 20 hours, the conventional munitions element built approximately 145 munitions, enough to load seven B-1s. On the aviation side of the base, aircrews were preparing for take-off.



"We had the pre-brief, and flew a practice profile in the simulator as well to make sure everyone on the crew had the opportunity to practice the bomb runs," said Maj. Christopher, co-pilot for the operation's lead B-1. "The biggest thing going through my mind was trying to absorb every bit of information so that we didn't mess it up."



This specific weapons build was the first time many had ever built bombs that would leave a CONUS location to bomb targets.



"Seeing these guys doing their job for real, I was proud of them. I couldn't have asked for a better crew at the time," Master Sgt. Matthew, 28th Munitions Squadron munitions control section chief, said.



Maintenance personnel and aircrew were executing their duties in the worst imaginable weather. It was roughly 35 degrees outside with freezing fog and pilots on the runway could only see ahead one hash-mark.



Maj. Brian, weapons system officer for the operation's lead B-1, confessed to slipping multiple times on his way to transportation vehicles, while Maj. Matthew added the most memorable part of the mission was take-off.



Brian said it was an honor to be selected as one of the crew members, and that he felt it was his duty to reward the faith previous commanders put in him by executing the mission to a weapons officer level.



B-1s arrived in the Libya area of operations 12 hours after take-off and the crews checked in with command and control. Many aspects had changed between pre-brief and check-in, but the crews divvied up targets between the BONES and went in for their first strike.



"The mission was the deepest strike made into Libya during OOD, which kept us in hostile airspace for over an hour and a half," Maj. Matthew stated. "[Previous missile strikes] alerted the enemy to our presence, and we immediately saw anti-aircraft artillery fire coming from the ground. It was the first time any of us had seen AAA."



Poorly aimed artillery fire didn't concern the aviators, who hit their marks and recovered at a forward operating location. Twenty-four hours later, the second launch began. Nearly 100 targets were hit during the two-day strike.



At only 72 hours, the mission marked a significant milestone for not only Ellsworth, but the B-1 fleet as a whole.



Maj. Matthew added the mission solidified the B-1 and its aircrew members' role as a flexible, rapidly-deployable strategic asset. Brian agreed that it showed the skill, dedication and professionalism of the 28th Maintenance Group.



"The fact they were able to generate five green jets, build 145 munitions, all while in the middle of a snow storm on only two days' notice still amazes me to this day," Brian added. "We train every day to do precisely that, but the maintainers and weapons troops can't 'simulate' extreme weather and harsh temperatures. They were the MVPs of Odyssey Dawn in my opinion."



Master Sgt. Matthew, who led the munitions crew, added the lessons learned from OOD are always an example he brings up when training his fellow munitions Airmen.



"...it's also hard to overstate how important the ground support teams were to our success," Maj. Matthew said. "Without all of the support agencies, from maintenance to airfield operations, transportation, etc., we wouldn't have been nearly as successful."



According to Maj. Matthew, the B-1 was the only aircraft that could meet the demands of the mission, such as the timeframe and the number of weapons required to hit that many targets.



"Executing the strike proved the aircraft is capable of holding any target in the world at risk, at any time," said Maj. Donavon, commander of the operation's lead B-1.
Putting the Pegasus through its paces

As the Air Force gets ready for the arrival of its newest aerial refueling and strategic military transport aircraft, a diverse group of Airmen is working hard to make sure the KC-46A Pegasus is ready to meet the services needs. Lt. Col. John Mikal is one of them.



Mikal, a reservist KC-135 Stratotanker instructor pilot assigned to the 370th Flight Test Squadron, is also a KC-46 test pilot and member of the team thats putting the Pegasus through a series of critical pre-production tests.



The Boeing Company developed the KC-46 from its 767 jet airliner and is scheduled to deliver 179 of the aircraft to the Air Force by 2028. The first 18 combat-ready tankers are scheduled to be delivered by August 2017.



To meet that timeline, Boeing is working closely with the Air Force to put the KC-46 through its paces. The companys first test aircraft, a Boeing 767-2C, touched down at Edwards Air Force Base for the first time Oct. 15 for several days of fuel onload fatigue testing. During these tests, the KC-46 flew in close formations with a KC-135 and KC-10 Extender to see how the aircraft performed in different aerial refueling positions. While no fuel was passed, Boeing engineers were able to test the stress and strain on the Pegasus.



Mikal flew as the aircraft commander of the KC-135 during the first aerial refueling maneuvers of a KC-46 behind a KC-135 and in close formation with both the KC-10 and KC-46 on Oct. 19. Two days later, he flew as a pilot aboard the KC-46 during an aerial refueling receiver onload fatigue test behind a KC-10. He was the first Air Force reservist to fly the 767-2C, the commercial test variant of the KC-46.



It was a tremendous honor to participate in and conduct KC-46 testing with the test team, Mikal said. The KC-46 will be an amazing operational aircraft, and Im humbled to have the opportunity to be a part of this amazingly talented test team.



Mikal isnt the only Air Force reservist from the 370th FLTS qualified to take part in the KC-46 testing. The 370th has two KC-46 initial cadre boom operators -- Master Sgts. Aaron Ray and Scott Scurlock -- who will be taking part in Pegasus refueling testing in the coming months.



The 370th FLTS is an embedded Air Force Reserve unit with a mission of providing KC-135 aerial refueling test support to both operational and test-configured receiver aircraft at Edwards AFBs 412th Test Wing. The Reserve unit also leads management and execution of the business effort mission at Edwards AFB, which utilizes operational Air Mobility Command KC-135 and KC-10 tankers to support routine refueling of non-test configured 412th TW receiver aircraft.



Since some 370th FLTS pilots are test pilots and some of its boom operators are flight test boom operators, they augment the KC-135, KC-10 and KC-46 flight test and aerial refueling flight test for Air Force Test Center programs.

On Jan. 24, the KC-46 successfully completed its first in-flight refueling demonstration as it passed 1,600 pounds of fuel to an F-16C Fighting Falcon.



These are exciting times for the KC-46A program, Col. Chris Coombs, the KC-46 system program manager at the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, said after that flight. We have had plans on paper and data from simulation labs, but this in-flight demonstration shows we are truly making progress on bringing this capability of the next-generation of tankers to the warfighter supporting our global missions for years to come.



After the refueling test with the F-16, the KC-46A had a robust in-flight refueling demonstration schedule for the next few weeks. The test with the fighter jet fulfilled the requirement to connect to a light/fast receiver aircraft. The remaining tests with the boom were scheduled to use an A-10 Thunderbolt II as the light/slow receiver and a C-17 Globemaster III as the heavy receiver.



Mikal said the KC-46 test aircraft will be spending a lot of time at Edwards AFB in the coming months as it goes through aerial refueling certification testing with a host of Air Force and coalition aircraft.



There are about 18 different aircraft that need to be tested as they take on fuel from the KC-46, he said. A lot of that testing will take place here at Edwards, and I am ready to help out with that testing however I can.



Edwards AFB continues to be the premier base for flight testing the Air Forces newest capabilities, and the Air Force Reserves 370th FTS continues to support when needed.



The KC-46A Pegasus is intended to replace the Air Forces aging tanker fleet, which has been refueling aircraft for more than 50 years. With more refueling capacity and enhanced capabilities, improved efficiency, and increased capabilities for cargo and aeromedical evacuation, the KC-46A will provide aerial refueling support to the Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as allied nation coalition force aircraft.



In October, the Air Force selected Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, as the preferred alternative for the first Reserve-led KC-46A Pegasus main operating base.



Tinker AFB, Oklahoma; Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts; and Grissom ARB, Indiana, were named as the reasonable alternatives.



It is absolutely critical that we replace our aging tanker fleet with the KC-46A Pegasus aerial tanker, said Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James. I am pleased to announce Seymour Johnson AFB as the first Reserve-led location because it is a testament to the Air Forces commitment to the total force.



We must use all three components -- active, Guard and Reserve -- operating cohesively and seamlessly as one team so we can realize the full potential of airpower.



James also explained the KC-46A program is just the first phase of a three-phase effort to replace the aging tanker fleet. The first phase of tanker recapitalization will complete with final deliveries in fiscal year 2028.



(Some information for this article was taken from an article written by Daryl Mayer, 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.)
Bangladeshs high court rejected a petition by secular activists to scrap Islams status as the state religion in the wake of nationwide protests by hardline Islamist groups.

A special bench of three judges threw out the petition within moments of opening the case and without allowing any testimony.

The petition, which was first launched 28 years ago, has triggered countrywide protests by Islamist groups in the impoverished nation.

We are saddened (at the ruling). Its a sad day for the minorities of Bangladesh, said Subrata Chowdhury, who represented the secular activists in the case.

The court did not allow the petitioners to state their case or present any arguments, he said. The judges simply said the rule is discharged.

Bangladesh was declared officially secular after the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan which created the nation from what was previously East Pakistan.

But in 1988 the then-military ruler, General Hussain Muhammad Ershad, elevated Islam to the state religion in an attempt to consolidate power

.

Secularists have argued for decades that Islams status as the state religion conflicts with Bangladeshs secular charter and discriminates against non-Muslims.

The government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina brought back secularism as a pillar of the constitution, but promised it would not ratify any laws that go against the central tenets of Islam.

The countrys largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, responded to the courts decision by withdrawing a call for a nationwide strike. It described the decision as a victory of 160 million people.

The people will never accept any government move to remove Islam as the state religion from the constitution in an effort to please a handful of anti-religion persons, the Jamaat had said earlier.

More than 90 percent of Bangladeshs population is Muslim, with Hindus and Buddhists the main minorities.

Constitutional changes dating back over three decades have put Bangladesh in the unusual position of being officially secular while still having Islam as a state religion.
Dutch anti-terrorism police on Sunday arrested a 32-year-old man in Rotterdam on suspicion of preparing an attack on France and also detained three other people, national prosecutors said.



French authorities on Friday requested the arrest of the French citizen, who had been identified in a terrorism investigation, prosecutors said in a statement. He was suspected of involvement in preparing a terrorist attack.

The arrests were carried out by a specialized anti-terrorism police squad, and the Dutch intelligence agency AIVD and prosecutors also took part in the operation, prosecutors said.

Two of the others detained were described as aged 43 and 47 and having an Algerian background, while the third had not yet been identified.
Opposition demanded murder case be registered against errant officials responsible for the suicide of farmer opposite Mantralaya.

The opposition parties held the state government responsible for the suicide of farmer opposite Mantralaya (state secretariat) last week. Congress-NCP legislators criticised the government for its failure to provide loan waiver to farmers as many of them were unable to repay their debt due to crop failure. They also demanded that murder case be registered against errant officials. The proceedings of the house were disrupted as both ruling and opposition parties were involved in a heated debate over the farmers suicide issue.

Leader of Opposition in Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil said, Today situation has become so bad that farmers have to commit suicide outside Mantralaya for demanding loan waiver. Congress, NCP and other opposition parties have always highlighted the farmer suicide issue in the assembly and urged the government to provide financial assistance to them. However, the government is least bothered about the hardships faced by farmers. The state government must immediately waive loans of farmers. The government is only giving false assurances to farmers by announcing several welfare schemes for them. Is the government waiting for the assembly election for announcing poll sops to farmers?

Vikhe-Patil added that despite Madhav Kadam killing himself in front of the Mantralaya, the government still did not understand the gravity of the situation. It is very unfortunate and ironic that there is an insensitive government in the state and at the Centre as well, Vikhe-Patil said.

As the House assembled for the day, Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde, via an adjournment motion, said a government which believes in communicating through social media cannot respond to the cries of farmers.

This suicide incident has happened because the government excluded farmers sowing cotton from getting compensation for crop failure. This is a government that believes in communicating through social media. But, why does it not hear the cries of farmers? he asked.

He said the farmer had met a few ministers, tehsildar and Collector asking for help, but did not receive any.

Jayant Patil said it is the first time in the history of the state that a farmer has committed suicide in front of Mantralaya.

(Eknath) Khadse, while he was in the Opposition, had many a times demanded that a murder case be lodged against officials when a farmer committed suicide. Now, the district collector should be charged under IPC section 302, he said.

On the other hand, Eknath Khadse said the state government had done all it could, and that the farmer had received drought aid over a month back.

BJP MLA Parag Alwani, on his part, said that the government is prepared to answer all these questions. Our governments stand is that waiving off farmer loans will not end the suicides. NCP chief Sharad Pawar had done this earlier, but did the farmer suicides stop? No one can give the assurance that the loan waiver will mean that no farmer ends his life. Our government is looking for long-term solutions, Alwani said.

Madhav Kadam  the farmer from Nanded who consumed poison in front of the Mantralaya on Wednesday  had not received any drought compensation for the past two years. Although he was immediately rushed to hospital, Kadam died on Saturday. In 2015-16, 3,200 farmers committed suicide due to consecutive droughts.
Taliban militants fired explosives into Afghanistans parliament compound on Monday as the top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior were due to speak, lawmakers and the insurgents said.

Lawmakers said no one was reported wounded. But Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack and said it caused heavy casualties.

The Taliban often claim responsibility for attacks and have been known to exaggerate fatality figures.

Three rockets were fired at the parliament but they did not hit the main building, said Safiullah Muslim, a lawmaker from Badakhshan province. It happened when the session was ongoing.

There were conflicting reports as to whether the explosions were caused by long-range rocket artillery or shoulder-fired rocket-propelled grenades.

The blast took place when senior security officials were on way towards the building to brief lawmakers, Khaama Press reported.

The members of the Wolesi Jirga, the lower house of parliament, were holding a meeting when the attack took place.

The Parliament building, built with Indian aid, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December last year. No Indians on site were hurt in the attack, reports said.
Narendra Modi has become a pioneer in politics and making most of the situations to his advantage. In his extempore speech he clarified that the reservation has to stay and the rights of the Dalits cannot be snatched away anyway. PM went on to compare Ambedkar with Martin Luther King in his Ambedkar lecture and the clarification came in the backdrop of RSS call for quota review. Modis mastermind continued to give the Indian people, the share of their own right and this is one more case of his authority stamped on Dalits quota issue. It came at a perfect time when the dates of Assembly elections in the States have been announced. Thus, BJPs ideological mentor made his presence felt and made this rather clear to woo the voters all over India. It will give the National Party a boost in the prospects, which was somewhat sagging after setbacks and reverses in various states and in by-elections to the Parliament. He is a master politician and the likes of Congress are very much surprised at the move and for them there is no chance to criticize the statement as the adverse remark will back fire in their effort to get back power in non-BJP states in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.

Nickhil Mani

(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
Kennedy Jr., Robert F.: A Letter to Liberals: Censorship and COVID: An Attack on Science and American Ideals (Childrens Health Defense)

A Letter to Liberals is Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s, challenge to lockdown liberalisms embrace of policies that are an affront to once cherished precepts. Click to purchase. (*****)




PATRICIA FINN, ESQ.,

NATIONAL VACCINE RIGHTS & INJURY ATTORNEY



This weekend the film Vaxxed from Cover up to Catastrophe was pulled from Tribeca Film festival by the festival organizers after being pressured to not show the movie because of its controversial content. New York City's Health Commissioner Jane Zucker issued a statement in support of the films censorship stressing in her public announcement on Sunday that vaccines do not cause autism. On behalf of the citizens of the City of New York represented by this firm and who disagree with Dr. Zucker, the undersigned respectfully requests the Health Commissioner provide the residents of this state with any credible studies, any evidence at all, showing autism cannot be vaccine induced. Simply attacking the research of Andy Wakefield, and notably without more, is not a sufficient basis for the City's top health official to claim vaccines do not cause autism.



Vaxxed supporters plan to premier the movie in New York City on April 24, 2016 as planned regardless of the censorship, and would like to put forth any evidence provided by Dr. Zucker to support the statement that vaccines are safe and do not cause autism, other than the same old establishment lame attack on Dr. Wakefields research findings and now his new movie.





Why is the Film Vaxed So Important and A Must See



In 2000, a group of doctors from Pharma and CDC got together at a conference in Simpsonwoods, a secluded retreat outside of Atlanta. The conference was convened to discuss newly uncovered evidence showing a connection between vaccines and brain injury in children. The transcripts of the Simpsonwoods conference shows comments being made by the CDC and Merck doctor-participants involving potential litigation that would result from their findings, and that it would be problematic for industry. Those in attendance agreed before concluding the conference, not to tell the public about the evidence of vaccine induced brain injury they had uncovered at CDC and Merck, deciding to keep it to themselves and out of less responsible hands.



About the same time in 2000, the vaccine schedule for children in the United States was tripled, and also about the same time in 2000, the number of children with autism in the United States skyrocketed to 1 in 60 children. Soon thereafter about 5000 parents filed petitions for compensation in the Vaccine Court, alleging vaccine induced autism and injuries in their children after they had been heavily vaccinated under the new schedule. The facts of each of the 5000 cases were all highly similar. The petitions alleged perfectly healthy children developed autism after being heavily vaccinated starting in about 2000, shortly after the CDC\Pharma doctors agreed to keep the evidence of harm they had uncovered a secret and out of less responsible hands.





In 2003, the Court identified six cases to represent the 5000 petitioners, and one of those test cases, Hannah Polings case was later settled confidentially in 2007, and withdrawn from the program as one of the representative test cases. Hannahs case was substituted by another vaccine injury claim of a young boy in New York City. However, unlike Hannahs case his petition was dismissed along with all the other test cases, and all 5000 claims denied. This is remarkable because in Hannahs test case that was settled by the parties, the governments own medical expert witness testified that the vaccines Hannah had received had caused a metabolic overload resulting vaccine induced autism and other brain injuries alleged in the petition.



This critical medical expert report from the governments own witness in the Autism Hearings was required to be admitted into evidence, but was never entered into evidence by DOJ during the Autism hearings but was instead secretly settled, and the most compelling piece of evidence that vaccines had induced Hannahs autism was withheld again from the public, and the petitioners and during the Autism Hearings was withheld from the Court.



All 5000 of the Autism cases were dismissed in 2010 for failing to establish a plausible medical theory of causation to be eligible for compensation under the Vaccine Act, and the Special Masters dismissed the six test cases without ever seeing the governments own expert witness report that had concluded to a medical degree of scientific certainty that Hannah Polings autism had been vaccine induced by a metabolic overload from all the shots she received during a routine pediatric visit when she was three years old.



During the Autism hearings, Dr. Wakefields evidence proffered in the Cedillo test case was allegedly tampered with by Merck and CDC and also excluded as evidence. Clearly now all of this was being undertaken in furtherance of the agreement formed in 2000 by Merck and CDC scientists to keep the information linking vaccines and autism from the petitioners, the Court and the public. On the eve of Cedillo hearing evidence was introduced to refute Dr. Wakefields research findings without any discovery or examination of the governments evidence allegedly manufactured by Merck, and Wakefields findings were excluded in the Cedillo case as evidence as a result.



On appeal, the Justices of the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit were highly critical of the governments handling of the Wakefield evidence, and were openly critical as to why it had been excluded and not considered by the Special Masters in the proceedings. During the appeal phase of the Autism hearings, none of the Appellants were even aware that Hannah Polings case had been settled and that the government conceded the vaccines she received induced her autism, and their appeals were dismissed.



Out of ten government conducted studies on vaccine-autism-safety in the United States half of them are corrupt and non credible. The government autism studies done by CDC are at best unreliable and at worst fraudulent, a far cry from the alleged corruption Dr. Wakefield was accused of in his now discredited study. Even more disturbing than the crucifixion of Wakefield, on August 27, 2014, Brian Hooker, Phd., biochemist and a parent of a vaccine injured child, released transcripts of recordings with a distraught Dr. William Thompson, a Senior vaccine scientist at the CDC since 1998, confessing to a cover up during the 2001 Congressional Hearings on the- controversial MMR vaccine and its link to Autism, and nothing has been done about the public outcry over Dr. Thompson and the CDC Whistleblowers admissions.



Congressman Bill Posey of Florida gave an impassioned speech before Congress demanding Dr. Thompson be subpoenaed and called upon to answer for the alleged research fraud he admitted to on the tape recordings, and yet nothing has been done by Congress. Dr. Zucker has not commented on the now debunked CDC vaccine autism studies, but continues to attack the twenty year old Wakefield research and his movie Vaxxed, without any evidence to support a sweeping claim that vaccines do not cause autism. Well they do cause Autism.



Surely, the State of New York has more than a retracted study published in the Lancet Medical Journal twenty years ago, and a movie to go on before recommending more and more vaccines for children that could kill, rather than prevent the spread of illness. Dr. Zucker please explain how Dr. Thompsons admissions to research fraud in the CDC Autism studies support your statement yesterday that vaccines do not cause autism and why the Vaxxed movie should be censored in New York City. Please address the audio transcripts released by Dr. Hooker, where Dr. Thompson says:



"I was complicit, and, ah, I went along with this. We didn't report significant findings. You know, I'm not proud of that and, uh, it's probably, it's the lowest; it's the lowest point in my career that I went along with that paper ... I have great shame now when I meet families with kids with autism, because I've, because I have been part of the problem.



The other well known vaccine safety research study of the CDC, known as the Danish Studies, that so called proved vaccines do not cause autism was conducted by CDCs Dr. Pouel Thorsen, a.k.a Americas Top Ten Most Wanted Fugitives and is equally corrupt and unreliable as the Atlanta Studies proffered in the Autism hearings that were conducted by Dr. Thompson.



Dr. Thorsen, the lead CDC researcher in the Danish Studies, has since been indicted for stealing the research money and is now on the lam in Denmark somewhere hiding in plain site from the FBI and the CDC. How does this support a claim that vaccines do not cause autism? These are the two leading CDC researchers and two leading studies that were relied upon in the Autism hearings, and used as evidence by the government to show no link between autism and vaccines and relief upon to discredit Dr. Wakefields research.



Dr. Paul Offit, another major proponent of vaccinations and critic of Dr. Wakefield like Dr. Zucker, claims to be an unbiased scientist with no personal interest in vaccination. Yet in 2008 while sitting on the ACIP as a voting member, the Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania sold its royalty stake in Dr. Offit's vaccine RotaTeq for $182 million, and Dr. Offit received an unspecified percentage: his share of the intellectual property, said to be "in the millions."



In another pending federal lawsuit in Pennsylvania, former Merck scientists alleged the current supplier of the MMR vaccine is falsifying evidence on the efficacy of the vaccines in controlling the spread of measles and mumps. That means if proven to be true, the MMR shots the scientist knew were causing brain damage in children in 2000 do not work as reported, and these kids who developed autism were injured for no reason because the Merck MMR vaccine that injured the children doesnt work.



Finally, it is worth noting that if you are injured by any vaccine in the United States, including the defective MMR vaccine, there is no liability to Merck. A person injured from a vaccine in the United States is compensated in a special court established by Congress in 1986 that shields manufacturers from any form of tort liability to "protect vaccine supply." Yet vaccines are so cheap to produce and so lucrative a product, Pharma hardly needs a no fault liability program to stay profitable in the vaccine market.



The Vaccine Court since its inception has compensated $3.2 billion in damages to people injured by vaccines, including death cases. So Dr. Zucker vaccines do cause injuries including autism. Therefore, the People of the State of New York that oppose censorship, and oppose the vaccination mandates request of the Health Commissioner more than a movie critique, and to provide some reliable evidence that vaccines do not cause autism, and if there is no evidence to support the Health Commissioner's claim vaccines do not cause autism, then it is the duty of the State to hold Pharma accountable for their crimes against children and crimes against humanity.








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Date: March, 2012.

Place: Earths Moon.

Through the history of space exploration, dozens UFO sightings have been reported by the crews of the craft that have been launched. For example, one of the members of the Gemini IV mission, astronaut James McDivitt, declared that he saw a weird object with arm-like extensions close to the capsule. Additionally, in 1985, Col. Gordon Cooper (another member of the Gemini IV mission) claimed having chased a UFO over Germany in the 1950s. About this issue, he said: There are thousands of witness reports and a quantity of documents to prove this, but nobody wants to make them public.

This asseveration seems to be quite true. In March 2012, UFO researcher Scott C. Waring affirmed having spotted a base on the Moon in one of the photos that NASA scientist Anthony Colapret had on his desk. However, it looks like he was trying to cover it with his arm.

According to Mr Waring, this building is now currently inhabited by US military personal. He believes that the installation is located in the same crater that NASA sent a nuclear bomb to explode in 2009.

Additionally, the ufologist is convinced that NASA Ames Research Center does get intel on such structures because one is being used by the USMC as an America base right now.

Draw your own conclusions

For further information: http://www.ufosightingsdaily.com/2012/03/moon-structures-alien-bases-caught-on.html

NASA Employee Leaves Top Secret Photos Of Base On Moon On Desk While Press Takes Photo 2012, UFO Sighting News.

UPDATE on July 10, 2015: I found a similar structure in this moon photo from Apollo 11! The structure is at the bottom center of the photo, but must be enlarged 3X to view it better. The photo is here: http://www.lpi.usra.edu/resources/apollo/images/print/AS11/42/6276.jpg The screenshot below shows you a close up of the building I'm talking about.

Date of discovery: March 2012 (although the photo if from 2009)

Location of sighting: Earth's Moon

NASA Photo!: http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/images/content/393894main_ACD09-0220-089_full.jpg

Update on Aug 2014: Anthony Colapret, the scientist for NASA with his arm on the photo still works for NASA today. Here is his bio at NASA. http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/research/2007/colaprete.html

UPDATE: This building is located in the same crater that NASA sent a nuclear bomb to explode. This is in Cabeus crater! Click here to view 2009 bombing of moon. Also the names of the scientists in the photo are Anthony Colaprete and Karen Gundy-Burlet working at the Ames Research Center.

Yes NASA did drop a small nuclear bomb on the moon in 2009, I personally watched it live on the internet with my students. Also the NASA Ames Research Center does get intel on such structures because one is being used by the USMC as an America base right now! Hacker Gary Mckinnon confirmed this when he got into USAF and NASA computers. THIS BUILDING IS NOW CURRENTLY INHABITED BY US MILITARY PERSONALTHAT IS WHY THESE YOUNG RESEARCHERS (LEARNING) ARE LOOKING AT IT NOW. SCW

Person discovering it states: "Now that's a huge cat left out of NASA's bag. The smoking gun evidence that NASA knows about the presence of extraterrestrial bases on the Moon and ultimately bombed one these structures during the LRO/LCROSS mission in 2009, allegedly carried out to seek water in the crater Cabius."








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A pilot who flew for President Obama during his 2008 campaign wrote an article about an incredible UFO sighting he had in 1989.

He spoke to Clayton Morris on Fox News Fox and Friends about his UFO experience (See Below).









In his article for the New York Daily News, pilot Andy Danzinger says that many pilots have shared UFO stories with him. He claims virtually all pilots believe in UFOs.

Danzinger continued, with billions of stars and trillions of planets out there, ya gotta believe, and almost all of us [pilots] do.

The first thing Morris wanted to know during his interview with Danzinger on this Saturday morning, was why pilots dont talk about their UFO sightings.

Danzinger told Morris that there was no formal policy to not speak about UFO sightings at his airline or any one he had ever worked for, but that there was an unwritten rule of sorts.

Danzinger explained, We were young. We were new in our careers, and the way people tend to be ridiculed about all of this, you just kind of kept quiet.

As for his UFO encounter, Danzinger says it was unbelievable.

Danzinger was flying from Kansas City International Airport bound for Waterloo, Iowa. He says there were crystal clear skies in Kansas City. Crystal clear skies in Waterloo.

Soon after takeoff he and the captain spotted a massive disk. He said it was dimly visible through the clouds, and the object appeared to be pacing their aircraft. They knew the object was not the moon, as they could see the moon on the opposite side of their cockpit.

A then-Sen. Barack Obama is seen with Capt. Andy Danziger on Election Day, 2008.

A then-Sen. Barack Obama is seen with Cpt. Andy Danziger on Election Day, 2008.

Morris asked if any of the passengers of the aircraft saw the UFO. Danzinger told him, The captain did, but I dont know about any of the passengers.

Morris also apparently has an interest in the UFO topic. He says he often asks pilots off the air whether they have had UFO sightings. He says they often admit that they have had UFO sightings, but that they keep it quiet. Morris asked Danzinger, Why is that? Is it fear of losing their job?

Danzinger replied, I dont know. You dont want to be brandished as being crazy. That was one of our concerns before we actually reported it to air traffic control. We discussed it amongst each other. Is this something that is going to jeopardize our career? The government seems to discount every single report that ever seems to come out. The news media, at least in the past, tends to ridicule every UFO report, so, you know, that was all going on really big back in the 1980s.

Morris asked if Danzinger had heard from other pilots regarding his UFO article and the publicity it had been getting. Danzinger said he had gotten some feedback.

Danzinger says pilots have told him, Wow, maybe this is finally going to get the stuff out. I have seen stuff. It is about time someone actually came forward, and you are actually getting some press, and maybe people will start believing this a little bit more.

More of the Story Reported in the New York Daily News:

Retired U.S. Airline Captain Andy Danziger, who flew then-Sen. Obama on his 2008 presidential election day tells his UFO Experience!

During his 27-years in the skies the veteran Boeing pilot, who flew 737s, 757s and 767s during his career.

A then-Sen. Barack Obama is seen with Cpt. Andy Danziger on Election Day, 2008.

A then-Sen. Barack Obama is seen with Cpt. Andy Danziger on Election Day, 2008.

It was April 10, 1989 and early in my career. I was still a first officer at a regional airline. It was about 8 p.m. and we had just taken off from Kansas City International Airport bound for Waterloo, Iowa. It was a beautiful evening, with a full moon, clear skies and crisp early spring temperatures. The weather forecast for Waterloo was as nice, with clear skies and unlimited visibility.

After a short taxi and take-off, Air Traffic Control (ATC) cleared us to our cruise altitude of 15,000 feet. We established a Northeasterly heading, pointed strait at Waterloo, about 200 miles ahead. There were thin wispy clouds all around us, illuminated by the light of the full moon that shone through the captains-side window at our left. Despite the presence of these clearly visible wispy clouds everywhere, we werent flying through any of them. There was also a white disc dimly but clearly visible through those clouds just off to our right.

We flew on and I commented to Bruce, the captain, about this dimly visible disc. He said that hed been watching the same thing since we had leveled off. It looked similar to the moon faintly visible though thin fog, except the two were visible at the same time on opposite sides of our cockpit. We looked down below for search lights, you know, the kind thats sometimes used for aerial light displays or advertising at a car dealer, but there was no beam of light coming from the ground, no search light from an airport either. The captain and I had cumulatively spent many years flying and were accustomed to seeing  day and night  all manner of airplane, blimp, hot air balloon, satellite and bird. But neither of us had any idea what this disc could be.

We spent 20 to 30 minutes at our cruise altitude, all the while staring at this white disc dimly visible through some clouds that we somehow never seemed to fly through. Within about 40 miles of Waterloo, ATC confirmed the weather, still clear skies and unrestricted visibility at our destination as we began to descend. We got busy with our flying duties and for a short while, maybe for a minute, both of us had looked away from the disc, but when I looked up at it again I saw something that has been burned into my memory.

I yelled to Bruce, Holy st! He immediately looked over from what he was doing. Above the clouds, where the white disc had been, was a now giant red ball.

It was big and bright and just sat there above the clouds. It wasnt intense enough to illuminate us with a red glow but it was still plenty bright. We sat there in stunned silence. We obviously didnt want to hit it but quickly saw that it was flying parallel to our course. We werent on a collision course and we also werent gaining on it. Time became a blur as we continued our descent, this giant, red ball holding its course.

We slowly lost altitude and at around 13,000 feet, the brightly glowing ball began a gradual descent, too. As it did, it slowly started disappearing behind those wispy clouds. In about 30 seconds, like a setting sun but not nearly as bright, it vanished behind the clouds. The instant it fully disappeared, hundreds of lights began flashing from within the clouds.

As I looked on in disbelief, the flashing lights were brighter than ever and I could see that the section of the cloud that the glowing red ball had descended behind was starting to stretch apart like a piece of Silly Putty, two halves being pulled slowly apart with the middle getting thinner and thinner. This continued until the halves grew so thin that it tore apart and, pop! Everything was gone. The dimly lit disc, the flashing lights, the thin wispy clouds that we had with us for the last 40 minutes; all of it, gone. There wasnt a cloud in the sky. Only the full moon remained off to our left.

Bruce and I just looked at each other. Oh my God, what the fk was that, was all I could muster. My colleague just stared out the windscreen, mesmerized. We discussed whether we should report what we had just witnessed. After a few minutes, I picked up the radio mic and asked the Kansas City Center controller if they had anything on radar. Nope, nothing but you, came the response. No, not right now but a couple minutes ago, at our one to two oclock, I replied. No, he repeated, Its a slow night. Ive got the entire sector between Kansas City and Waterloo and youre all thats been in it for the last hour. Bruce and I again just looked at each other, completely dumbfounded. So for the last say 40 minutes or so youve had no traffic at all, not at our one or two oclock? I asked. No sir, not at your one or two oclock, not anywhere, youre all there is, he assured us.

A minute or so later, from over the radio came, Air Midwest , do you want to report a UFO? We looked at each other for a couple seconds and Bruce nodded his head. Yes sir, we do, I finally replied. OK, take down this number and call when you get on the ground.

After deplaning we called the number. National UFO Reporting Center said the voice from the other end. At the time I didnt even know such a place existed, but they took collect calls from pilots and air traffic controllers. Bruce told the person on the other end of the line that we wanted to report a UFO. We were interviewed separately, first the captain and then me. When my interview was finished the man on the other end of the line said that we would never hear from him again and would never receive any additional information, this was going to be our first and only contact regarding the sighting. I asked, Can I ask just one question, do you think were crazy, has anyone else ever reported something like this?

Oh no, youre not crazy at all, he replied. This very same thing has been reported by pilots countless times. And while neither of us had any idea what we had saw one thing we were certain of, it wasnt from here.

Our airline had no official UFO policy (nor did any that I ever worked for), but at the time we were both young with long and promising careers in front of us. We knew through the grapevine that pilots werent supposed to talk about UFOs so we swore the station agent on duty to secrecy and agreed not to talk about our incident to any of our co-workers.

Cpt. Danziger, in front of Obamas campaign plane in 2008.










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A recently posted video shows a family being held at gunpoint after crossing the warning signs. Guards quickly swooped in seconds after they drove onto the grounds of the secret high security base.

For many years people thought the existence of a secret base called Area 51 was a fairy tale told by UFO and alien conspiracy theorists. However, a family found out last summer that discovering just how real, and how secure, the base is can be as easy as driving a few yards past warning signs telling people to keep out.

The video was posted on March 15, 2016 by Jeremiah Hasvold. The purpose of the video was to record a trip to Nevada by Hasvold and his son. One of the places they stopped was the gate to Area 51. In the video, Hasvold and his son visit the Extraterrestrial Highway and the black box.

A stretch of Nevada highway 375 near Area 51 was renamed the Extraterrestrial Highway due to rumors of alien spacecraft being tested at the secretive airstrip, where the government now admits is the home to top secret aircraft development. For years the base was unacknowledged until its existence was declassified in CIA document in 2013.

Along the Extraterrestrial Highway are a couple of roads that lead to gates into the base. However, once you get about 20 miles from the base, there are signs warning visitors from proceeding any further. On the hills behind these signs, security guards in trucks watch closely.

In the video, Hasvold and his son stop at a location formerly known as the black box. It is where a post office box used to stand at the turnoff to the main gate to Area 51. As Hasvold mentions in the video, the box has been removed. However, tourists still stop there.

While Hasvold and his son are visiting this spot, they meet some tourist who do not appear to speak English well. The family is intending to go to the Area 51 gate, so Hasvold and his son follow them.

While Hasvold stops at the signs warning people to go no further, the other group decides to continue. Hasvold video tapes what happens next.

The family that kept going is stopped by a truck only seconds after passing the signs. two guards come out of the truck, one apparently holding a camera, the other a gun. They appear to instruct the passengers of the vehicles to exit the car with their hands raised. The driver is then asked to approach the guards with his hands raised, walking backwards towards the guards.

The video ends there and Hasvold does not provide any more information as to who the tourists were or what happened to them. In the past, visitors to the gate who have passed the signs have been fined and/or arrested. In 2014, a tour van accidentally crossed the line and faced steep fines and misdemeanor convictions.

Trips to the gates of Area 51 are fun, and a Mecca for UFO enthusiasts, but if you do make the trip, for goodness sakes, do not pass the signs.
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A California witness at Ridgecrest recalled an incident from 1992 when he and his wife observed UFOs dropping to the ground level while experiencing a loss of time, according to testimony in Case 75071 from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) witness reporting database.

The reporting witness and his wife were returning home from a trip and traveling along a highway between Edwards Air Force Base and China Lake Naval Base when they pulled over.

The wife and I both got out of the car, the witness stated, with three small children asleep in the rear seat. We looked up and saw what we thought were stars, drop out of the sky and down into the valley where we were located.

The two watched as the objects moved toward them.

The objects were all around us. I was watching objects right off the ground coming right at us from across the valley with no sound get less than a half-mile from our position. And then the lights would go out.

The witness watched as objects in the sky made maneuvers.

I saw objects making moves in the sky that were impossible for a plane or helicopter. The G-forces alone would kill a normal human. Would catch out of the corner of my eye a dull, orange orb. When I would turn my head to look at it, it would just as quick duck below brush or a large mound of ground. Very close to where we were parked.

The witness was soon separated from his spouse.

At one point I lost contact with my wife, turned around, and she was standing in the highway looking at me. She said, dont worry, they wont hurt us,and that was not her talking.

The witness then stated that he came face-to-face with an object at ground level.

And then looking past her, on the other side of the road, is when I saw it. In the dark with no lights on, hovering just above the ground, with no sound, right out of a black-and-white sci fi movie, a disc-shaped UFO.

The witness was unable to physically react to the situation.

As I stood there looking at it, I could not raise my hand and point fast enough to say,look at that. In the blink of an eye, it shot off alongside of the highway.

The witness reflected on the situation.

It was 11p.m. when I pulled over. Next thing we knew; it was 8 in the morning. Almost in a daze, we both got back in the car. As I got back in the car, I noticed that the children were in the same position they were in when I got out of the car. The experience has had a profound effect on my life. Something one just cant forget about. Not sure if I really want to know what happened during the hours I cant recall or remember. It took place many years ago, but I feel it is time to tell my story.

California MUFON Field Investigator Earl Anderson is investigating. Ridgecrest is a city in Kern County, California, population 27,616. Please remember that most UFO sightings can be explained as something natural or man-made. The above quotes were edited for clarity. Please report UFO activity to MUFON.com.

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The BBC posted an article today by former UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) UFO hunter Nick Pope. The article reviews the history of the UKs official UFO investigation program and Popes argument for the reopening of the program. The story is on the front page of BBC.com and is featured under Editors Picks.

Pope says official interest in UFOs in the UK began with Sir Henry Tigard, the Chief Scientific Adviser for the MoD. His interest in the topic was piqued by UFO articles in newspapers. He encouraged a study which was conducted by a small committee called the Flying Saucer Working Party.

According to Pope, In 1951, the committee concluded UFO sightings could be explained as misidentifications, hoaxes or delusions.

They recommended that the government not spend resources investigating the topic. However, that changed the following year when Royal Air Force pilots and other military personnel witnessed UFOs during a NATO exercise. Some were tracked on radar. By 1953, the MoD officially began investigating UFOs.

A UFO, its worth remembering, refers to any unidentified flying object  not necessarily an extraterrestrial one. While the MOD investigations were aimed at determining whether there was evidence of any threat, we were thinking more about Russians than Martians, writes Pope.

The theory was that some sightings might involve Soviet spy planes or bombers probing our air defences to try to evaluate the effectiveness of our radar systems, aircraft and pilots.

Pope manned the UFO desk from 1991 to 1994, but he says It wasnt quite as glamorous as sci-fi movies imply: it was less Men in Black and more Men in Grey.

The MoD mostly looked for conventional explanations for UFO sightings, and briefed defence ministers so they could respond to requests by members of parliament. He said their goal was to respond in a polite, factual, but dismissive way.

Pope says there were some good cases to come across the desk, such as the Rendelsham Forest incitement in 1980, and a case referred to as the Cosford incident in 1993. Pope can be seen talking about this case in the video at the top of this story.

According to Pope, Of around 12,000 sightings that the programme investigated, approximately 5% remained unexplained.

Although there were unexplained cases, the extraterrestrial possibility was still met with skepticism. Instead, other theories were entertained. A secret intelligence study on UFOs completed in 2000 concluded: No evidence exists to suggest that the phenomena seen are hostile or under any type of control, other than that of natural physical forces.

However, the report continued: It is recommended that further investigation should be [made] into the applicability of various characteristics of plasmas in novel military applications.

This is the ultimate dirty secret about UFOs, says Pope. A natural phenomenon that could be weaponised would be hugely attractive to the military of any nation.

In 2009, the MoD closed the UFO desk. The official stance became, The MOD has no opinion on the existence or otherwise of extraterrestrial life. However, in over fifty years, no UFO report has revealed any evidence of a potential threat to the United Kingdom.

However, Pope disagrees with their strategy. He says there is now no organized method for the UK to collect sighting reports from the public. He is not arguing we are leaving ourselves open for an attack by aliens, but there are other threats as well, such as drones. He warns, Drones can be used in espionage, while some security analysts have expressed concerns that terrorists could use them to carry explosives, or slam them into passenger aircraft.

Without a place people can go to when they observe something strange, we cant be fully apprised of whats going on in our airspace, Pope argues. And, after all, even if we are alone in the Universe, were not alone on Earth.

Read the BBC story here.

Listen to Pope talk about these and other UFO topics on the latest episode of Open Minds UFO Radio.





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A New York witness at Rome reported watching a UFO hovering at the treetop level that made no sound, according to testimony in Case 73684 from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) witness reporting database.

The witness was driving home with his girlfriend about 8:30 p.m. on January 6, 2016, along Elmer Hill Road in Rome, NY, when the incident occurred.

I saw what looked like an extremely low flying plane flying above the tree tops, the witness stated.It had three white lights on it and one red light underneath.

As the witness moved closer to the object, he realized it was not moving  but was instead hovering.

It literally turned towards us in the air and flew/hovered directly above us. It made absolutely no sound and turned on a dime. It was the size of a normal jet, but was flat rectangular/diamond shape with a dome on top. I only could see that because the UFO literally flew right above us. It was a pretty scary experience, and completely real. Ive never seen anything like it and was completely amazed.

The case was reported to MUFON on January 6, 2016, and is under investigation by New York MUFON Field Investigator Bob Kasseland Chief Investigator Nicholas Voulgaris. No images or videos were included with the report.

Rome is in Oneida County, NY, population 33,725. Please remember that most UFO sightings can be explained as something natural or man-made. The above quotes were edited for clarity. Please report UFO activity to MUFON.com.
This Easter, Stop the Crucifixion of Assyrian Christians

Assyrian Christians (background), who fled advancing Islamic State group jihadists in the Syrian province of Hasakeh, wait to receive humanitarian aid supplies. ( Joseph Eid/AFP/Getty Images) During the holiday of Easter, Christians throughout the world commemorate the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Yet for one group of Christians in Iraq and Syria, this Easter will not be celebrated with chocolate bunnies and colored eggs. The Assyrians are an indigenous people of Mesopotamia who have a long history, spanning over 6,700 years. Though the Assyrian Empire came to an end in 612 B.C., the Assyrian Christians of today are the descendants of that ancient civilization. In the first century C.E., the Assyrians became the first people to convert to Christianity as a nation. The official language of the three main Assyrian Churches is Syriac, which is a dialect of Aramaic, the language that Jesus would have spoken during his lifetime. Prior to the Islamic conquest of the region, the Assyrian Church had an estimated 80 million adherents. Today, their worldwide numbers have been reduced to a little over 4 million. Continuous murder, rape and forcible conversions to Islam have led to as much as 95 percent of this ancient community being forced to live in diaspora. In Iraq, Assyrian Christians live under threat of extinction. According to the Near East Center for Strategic Engagement, the Assyrian Christian population in Iraq numbered 1.5 million at the start of the U.S invasion in 2003. By December 2015, that number had been drastically reduced to around 150,000. This constitutes a 90 percent reduction of the Assyrian Christian population in their ancestral homeland. The Assyrian Christians are suffering genocide at the hands of ISIS, in the worst possible meaning of the term. Since ISIS conquered the city of Mosul in June 2014, all 45 Christian churches have been destroyed, converted into mosques, turned into Islamic headquarters, or shuttered. As a result, tens of thousands of Assyrians in Northern Iraq have fled persecution at the hands of ISIS. Those who do not pay a special tax against non-Muslim religious minorities face a choice between exile and death. In Syria, 400 churches have been destroyed. More than 700,000 Christians in Syria have been forced to leave, out of a population that formerly numbered 1.1 million. In areas controlled by the Islamic State, Christians have been crucified, beheaded, raped and subjected to forced conversion to Islam. "Crucifying these people is sending a message and they are using forms of killing which they believe have been sanctioned by Sharia law," says Patrick Sookhdeo, Director of the Institute for the Study of Islam and Christianity. Crucifixion is certainly a favorite method of execution by the Islamic State, being used frequently since March 2014 according to CNN. In Syria, two children were crucified for not fasting during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. A 12-year old Christian boy was crucified, after his fingertips were chopped off by ISIS militants. In January 2015, 17 Syrian men were crucified in what the International Business Times called a "crucifixion frenzy." The crucifixions continue to this day, with ISIS-aligned militants threatening to crucify Rev. Tom Uzhunnalil. ISIS does not simply want to wipe out Christians from the Middle East, but also to purge any historical evidence that Assyrians or other pre-Islamic civilizations existed. In March 2015, ISIS destroyed the 3,000 year-old Assyrian city of Nimrud. The tombs of the biblical prophets Jonah and Daniel have also been destroyed, with ISIS announcing that it will transform the former site of Jonah's resting place into an amusement park. The genocide against Assyrians by ISIS is the latest in a string of Islamic attempts to erase them from existence. From 1914 to 1924, the Ottoman Empire carried out a program of extermination against the Chaldean, Syriac and Assyrian populations. Taking place alongside the Armenian Genocide, Turkey's rulers continued killing long after the empire had been dismantled. Dr. Israel W. Charny, Executive Director of the Institute on the Holocaust and Genocide, estimates the toll at 750,000 dead. In March of 2015, the U.S. House of Representatives voted unanimously to characterize the Islamic State's atrocities in Iraq and Syria as "genocide." Several days after this Resolution 75 was passed, Secretary of State John Kerry grudgingly acknowledged that the actions taken by ISIS did in fact constitute genocide. President Obama has yet to decide whether genocide is occurring against the Assyrian Christians and an official policy by the White House has not been formulated. One thing is certain; time is running out for the Assyrian Christians in the region. Not only are Christians literally being crucified, but the root of Christianity itself is coming dangerously close to being annihilated forever. It is up to Americans of all faiths to put pressure on the Obama Administration to call the Assyrian Genocide by name--and stop it.

Bradley Martin is a Fellow for the Haym Salomon Center and a Research Assistant for the Canadian Institute for Jewish Research.
March 28, 2016

Just two weeks after Russia announced it would be withdrawing the majority of its troops from Syria, Iranian media and officials seem upbeat about the progress against the opposition to the Syrian government and Russias involvement in the Syrian civil war.

The situation in Syria is very good, Mohammad Ali Jafari, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said March 28. Even taking into account the cease-fires that are underway, there is no change in policy by Russia and it is in coordination with the resistance front.

The shift toward more optimism is the result of government troops'  backed by Russian airstrikes and Hezbollah  retaking the ancient city of Palmyra. When Islamic State (IS) militants took over the city in May 2015 and destroyed ancient sculptures, it caught the attention of the world media.

Palmyra is important to the identity of the Syrian government due to its ancient history, according to Iranian analyst Sadollah Zarei, who often writes for hard-line media outlets. He said that the loss for IS in Palmyra, and the retreat of other armed groups in parts of Quneitra and Aleppo, will have a psychological impact.

According to Zarei, the idea present in Western circles that Russia would partially withdraw as some sort of agreement with the United States ahead of the Geneva talks and end its previous agreements with Syria was not true. However, despite his claims, the sudden Russian withdrawal did surprise a number of Iranian media outlets.

On the Geneva talks between the various factions and the Syrian government, Zarei said, There is serious doubt that they will ultimately determine the fate of the Syrian crisis. Zareis reasoning was that terrorist groups such as Jabhat al-Nusra, al-Qaedas affiliate in Syria, and IS hold considerable territory and that these groups are not part of the process.

Asked if the attack on Brussels would impact the Wests decision on the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Zarei said he believes that while these attacks by IS will continue in an attempt to make up for its battlefield losses in Syria and Iraq, he believes ultimately that Israel and the United States want Assads ouster and this position will not change.

Other officials struck a victorious tone in response to Palmyra. In a message congratulating Assad, the secretary of Irans Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, said, The will of the Syrian nation, government and military in cleansing territory occupied by terrorists is honorable and praiseworthy. He added, This courage and dedication will be recorded in the history of the region.

Shamkhani also said that Syria should be held up as a successful example of standing up against conspiracies and proxy wars.

Much of Iranian media is looking forward to more victories. Fars News wrote that the retaking of Palmyra is significant because the city can be counted as the entrance gates of the Syrian army to eastern Syria, territory largely controlled by IS. According to the article, more than 100 square miles were retaken from IS, and links from Palmyra to other areas such as Deir ez-Zour, Raqqa and al-Qaryatayn have been severed.

Iran's involvement in the Syrian civil war shows no signs of decreasing. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei recently met with family members of soldiers who were killed in Syria fighting in the Fatemiyoun Brigade  a largely Afghan Shiite militia organized by the IRGC that is fighting on behalf of the Syrian government. Iranian media reported that the family members were given a signed copy of the Quran.
March 28, 2016

ANKARA, Turkey  The rising wave of terrorism in Turkeys big cities has sparked debates on the various aspects of the attacks, committed on what appears to be on a rotating basis by the Islamic State (IS) and the Kurdistan Freedom Falcons (TAK), a radical offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). The discussion has focused on the reasons that made Turkey a playing field for terrorists and the security and intelligence failures behind the attacks. Another crucial topic, however, is the recruitment methods of terrorist groups and how young people are cajoled into becoming suicide bombers.

After the car bomb that the TAK detonated in the heart of Ankara on March 13, authorities identified the female suicide bomber as 23-year-old university student Seher Cagla Demir, which further fueled discussion on how young people are drawn to terrorist groups and the economic conditions that facilitate their recruitment.

According to March 23 figures by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK), the countrys overall jobless rate stands at 10.3%, while unemployment is much higher at 18.5% in the 15-24 age group, with 22% among females and 16.5% among males. On a regional basis, unemployment is highest in the mainly Kurdish eastern and southeastern provinces, which, since last year, have been the theater of bloody urban clashes between the security forces and the PKK, coupled with terrorist attacks, lengthy round-the-clock curfews, massive destruction and civilian deaths. The area TUIK designates as TRC3, comprising the provinces of Mardin, Batman, Sirnak and Siirt, tops the unemployment list with 24.8%, followed by the TRC2 area, covering Diyarbakir and Sanliurfa, with 17.5%. Hence, rampant unemployment in the region  two times higher than the countrys overall  emerges as an important element driving recruitment to the PKK and IS, along with ethnic and political factors.

In an interview with Al-Monitor in September 2014, PKK commander Cemil Bayik said the number of new recruits had shot up despite settlement talks with Ankara at the time, exceeding the pace of recruitment in its heyday in the early 1990s. There is a lot of alienation. The number of people joining our ranks last month has exceeded that in 1993. In 1993, around 1,000 people would join every month. Last month, 1,200 people joined, he said. Government officials also confirmed the trend. Siirt Gov. Ahmet Aydin, for instance, publicly rang the alarm over dozens of young people joining the PKK from his province. Turkeys top Kurdish political leader, Selahattin Demirtas, for his part, said the new recruitments were resulting from widespread Kurdish mistrust in the settlement process and urged Ankara to take confidence-building steps.

The fact that IS and TAK suicide bombers who have struck Suruc, Ankara and Istanbul since last year hailed from eastern and southeastern provinces speaks, among other things, of rising despair among young people in regions hit hard by poverty and unemployment.

Last summer, Turkish politician Umut Oran, the vice president of the Socialist International and a former lawmaker for the main opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP), conducted a field study in Adiyaman, which has emerged as one of IS main recruitment grounds in Turkey. He said the study found that money was a key element in the groups strategy of luring jobless youths to its ranks. Locals told Oran that new members received a $6,000 bonus upon recruitment and then monthly salaries of up to $1,200, which are quite lucrative sums both in terms of the high poverty levels in the southeast and Turkeys general economic conditions.

Ahmet Said Yayla, a scholar at Sanliurfas Harran University, estimates that some 5,000 Turkish nationals have joined armed groups in Syria, including 1,200 in IS ranks, stressing that material benefits played an important role in the recruitment process along with cross-border kinship links.

In early February, Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu unveiled a "master plan" for the southeast, which included some political and social measures but focused mainly on economic steps to create jobs and resuscitate local economies, including the postponement of debt repayment and new loans for shopkeepers, farmers and industrialists. However, almost two months on, the government has yet to take action on the plan, while clashes, curfews and devastating security operations continue in the region.

In earlier measures designed to assist young people, the government announced special loans for young entrepreneurs and financial aid for those who get married, including state funding for a savings scheme known as a dowry account.

Critics, however, say such measures are unrealistic and superficial given the rampant unemployment among young people. According to senior CHP member Erdogan Toprak, the army of jobless youths constitutes a serious potential of recruitment for terrorist groups, which the government could hardly stamp out with its current measures. They are deluding young people with unrealistic promises like dowry accounts and marriage loans. With what money is a jobless youth supposed to open a dowry account and save money for three years? Doesnt this amount to mocking the youth? Toprak said in a statement earlier this month.

In its most recent step to create jobs for the young, the government drafted legislation to recruit 15,000 new police officers and authorize the Directorate General of Police to seek more if needed.

Cem Kilic, a professor of labor economics at Ankaras Gazi University, notes that Turkey tops the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) list in terms of "idl e youths" who are neither employed nor enrolled in any educational or training program. Over 31% of Turkish youths in the 15-19 age group fall into this category, more than double the OECD average. Kilic warns that the problem represents a time bomb ticking for a social explosion unless urgent measures are taken.
Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

In the beginning ...

American Girl dolls were developed in 1986 by the Pleasant Company, and they've been a prominent part of many children's lives since.

The books are very educational (I learned most of my history from the books growing up), but some of the prices on the dolls and accessories are a little ... alarming. Here are 15 American Girl products that seemed a bit pricey. They're not necessarily the most expensive items, but some of the items that seem to get less bang for your buck.

Don't let your children see them. (Photo courtesy of American Girl's Facebook.)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Doll + book, $115

OK, so if your kids want to get in the American Girl game, they're probably going to want to start with the doll itself -- which isn't cheap. Just the doll (Addy is shown here, but most of the American Girls start at the same price) and one book from her collection is $115. (Let me break down the math: That's a lot of cocktails you can buy to drown out the noise of your kids complaining that they don't have an American Girl doll.) This price doesn't include the basic accessories -- those will cost you around $24 more.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Lea's Rainforest House, $395

At the beginning of each year, American Girl releases a "Girl of the Year," then discontinues her in December. This year, the Girl of the Year is Lea, who apparently loves to help save the rainforest in Brazil. And to help save the rainforest, obviously she's going to need this home complete with a hammock and mosquito net (Yes, a mosquito net. I can't make this up.). It looks really cool, especially in person, but warning: It costs nearly $400. Like, four 100 bills. For a home. For a doll. But if you still want to buy it, you can find it here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Maryellen's Diner, $275

Maryellen is an American Girl growing up in the '50s, and you can buy your kids her Seaside Diner for a little less than $300. You could also go to a real diner and eat real food many, many times for this amount of money, but I've gotta admit that this looks like it'll keep the kids occupied for a while so you can watch the latest season of "House of Cards." You can buy the diner here. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Kaya's Tepee and bedroll, $150

Kaya is a Native American in the Pacific Northwest in the 1870s, no naturally she's going to need a tepee and bedrest. This will cost you $150, which seems a bit steep, especially considering that you can buy a real-life six-person tent for a bit cheaper. But good news: A commenter says that her cat lives in it, so it has multiple uses. If you want to buy the tepee, go here. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Pizza party lunch, $34

I usually don't argue with anything pizza-related (because, face it, pizza is really one of the few things that help bad days), but come on, parents: This set consists of a mini pizza (commenters on American Girl's website says it's a meat-and-veggie 'za, which seems pretty important), tiny plates and napkins, soda can, a board game and mini-book. You could have a real, actual pizza party for your kids and their friends for $34. Also: Real pizza also trumps fake pizza. But, if you just want to ignore my complaints, you can buy it here. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Samantha's Bed and Bedding, $150

Samantha is a wealthy girl growing up in the Victorian era, so obviously her bed's going to be elegant and pricey: It'll cost you around $150. Buy it here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Rebecca's Phonograph Set, $44

Rebecca's story? She grows up as a Russian-Jewish girl in New York City in in 1910. And her miniature phonograph and records will set you back almost fifty bucks -- you know, around the price of an actual record player. Plus you'll have to explain to your kids what a record is. Buy it here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Samantha's Garden Gazebo, $200

Growing up, I never thought that my dolls needed a gazebo. Never crossed my mind at all. But apparently I'm in the minority, according to some American Girl website commenters. "I always wanted a gazebo growing up. Am able to realize my dream with this lovely gazebo," commenter Titamores says. OKKKKKKKK. Here's the other catch: Samantha likes to go out on her gazebo and paint, so you're also going to have to buy her painting set ($36) and her day dress ($32). If you dare, go here to buy it all. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Slow Cooker Dinner Set, $58

I know I keep saying this, but really: You can buy a real slow-cooker for this price. And teach your kids how to use it, so you won't ever have to cook again. But if you insist on buying the doll version, go here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Spa Chair, $110

Obviously your child's American Girl doll has had a rough life, cooking out of her $50 slow cooker sets and painting in her gazebo. So she obviously needs a spa day. Buy the spa set here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Campus Snack Cart, $150

There's a lot going with this snack cart -- there are ice cream sandwiches and ketchup and mustard bottles! It's adorable, but that adorableness comes at a price: $150.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Fun Flamingo swim set, $20

Your kids' doll can practice safe swimming with this swim set. For $20, though, seems like they could have thrown in some fake sunscreen, too. Buy it here. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Stable & Supplies, $110

FYI: There are no horse with this, just the stable and supplies. Buy it here. (Photo courtesy of American Girl)

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Palomino horse, $75

And here's the horse you need with that stable. Buy it here.

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Haley Laurence | hlaurence@al.com

Maryellen's Sofa Bed, $150

When your kids want to have a sleepover and their friends' dolls need a place to stay, try Maryellen's sofa bed for $150. Buy it here.
Despite its tiny stature in comparison to the neighboring Belk Hudson building, one structure on North Street E. in downtown Talladega easily catches the attention of visitors. The one-story structure built as a bank in 1869 is the rich orange-red of Alabama clay and decorated with ornate trim - made entirely of terracotta. Lettering inside a gable on top of the bank reads, "ISBELL," the name of the man who built it, Maj. James Isbell.

Isbell & Company Bankers, initially formed in 1848, is still doing business today as First Bank of Alabama, making it the oldest continually operating bank in the state, according to Chip Moore, the bank's vice president of operations.

So the building is obviously special. But after visiting Talladega recently to take photos, I wanted to know if it could be one-of-a-kind: Is it the only red terracotta building in the state?

Help me determine if there are others. If you know of any buildings made entirely of red terracotta in Alabama, email kkazek@al.com. Qualifiers are:

Must be clad entirely in terracotta (not just the ornamentation)

Must be orange-red terracotta, rather than the more common grayish-white terracotta.

But first, continue reading to see what I've learned so far.

Could bank be last of its kind?

Moore wasn't able to say definitively if Isbell Bank, known as the Old Bank Building, is the only red terracotta building in Alabama. He said he was told the lore repeated on the website firstbankal.com: "The Old Bank is one of only five buildings east of the Mississippi River featuring terra cotta architecture that is still standing today." However, he did not know what those other buildings were.

Further research led to me to three conclusions:

1. Use of terracotta for architectural trim, statuary and ornamentation was popular in the Victorian era, from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s;

2. Use of terracotta to clad an entire building was more unusual in Alabama but there are surviving examples in the state;

3. Of the surviving terracotta buildings, the majority are gray-white, or stone-colored, terracotta rather than the orange-red color typically seen in flower pots.

Which terracotta buildings survive?

Searches of a variety of historical archives turned up plenty of Alabama buildings with terracotta ornamentation or statuary but only a handful clad entirely in terracotta, including the 1925 Florentine Building in Birmingham, the 1906 First National Bank of Mobile, Birmingham's 1909 Empire Building and the 1907 Van Antwerp Building in Mobile. Of those, three are a gray-white color. Only the elaborate Florentine Building is made from a tinted terracotta that can appear to be a very pale pink.

Bham Wiki, an online encyclopedia of Birmingham, says of the Florentine, "The Italianate style is highly decorated with colored terra-cotta ornament framing two arcades supported by marble columns. Cast iron lanterns and shop windows enhance the decorative scheme. The eaves are crowned by a short red-tile roof. At the time it was said to have been the most costly building constructed in the city (by the square foot)."

According to Jonathan Taylor of BuildingConservation.com, it wasn't until 1867 that terracotta became popular as a building material in England and the U.S.:

"... in 1867 Sir Charles Barry presented a report to the Royal Institute of British Architects extolling its virtues. He showed that the material was light and easily transported; that it was strong in compression; that it was cheaper than stone particularly for the production of repeated decorative elements; and that its smooth, fired surface was more dirt resistant - an important consideration in the filthy urban environment of the period."

The historical Isbell building

James Isbell, one of Talladega's most prominent citizens, decided the city needed a bank in 1848 and opened a banking office in his building at North and East streets. "A 'counting room' was set up in the back of the building to serve the banking needs of area residents," Moore said. "In 1850, Isbell's son, Capt. Robert Houston Isbell, became actively connected with the firm, and the name was changed to that of Isbell & Son, Bankers. The banking operations remained there until 1869 when the construction of the 'Old Bank' was completed."

The Old Bank building was designed by Chisolm & Green Architects of Anniston and constructed by Indianapolis Terra Cotta Co. Bank operations took place in the terracotta bank until a larger, more modern building was constructed on the same street in 1963.

You can own this unique building

Recently, the Isbell Bank Building has been in use as a church but it is now on the market for a mere $60,000. The interior of the building has been modernized but needs remodeling. You can look up the property using MLS No. 635422 but note the listing incorrectly states the building dates to 1890. Ruth Helen Deese of Porter and Porter, the agent handling the listing, can be reached at 256-362-4194 or click here.

Join al.com reporter Kelly Kazek on her weekly journey through Alabama to record the region's quirky history, strange roadside attractions and tales of colorful characters. Find her on Facebook or follow her Odd Travels and Real Alabama boards on Pinterest.
Several weeks ago, flight medic Jason Snipes responded to a crash and did what he did - airlifted a woman to Southeast Alabama Medical Center to get the help she needed for her injuries.

But Snipes didn't stop there. When a GoFundMe account was later set up for the victim, Snipes visited that page, where he left words of encouragement for the woman. "I offer my prayers to you, her and your family,'' Snipes wrote. "If I may offer a verse that has helped me throughout my life, that is HEB 11:1 - Faith is the substance of all things hoped for but not yet seen. Maintain your faith. It will move mountains."

When he was called a hero for his efforts, Snipes gave credit where he thought credit was due. "I'm not a hero...God does his work through my hands."

"That's just the kind of person he was,'' said Kyle McDonnell, operations manager for Regional Paramedical Services of Alabama, where Snipes used to work. "He was just a very compassionate person."

Snipes, 34, was one of four people killed the weekend crash of a Haynes LifeFlight helicopter in southeast Alabama early Saturday. The others killed were: pilot Chad Hammond, 29; nurse Stacey Cernadas, 38, and patient Zach Strickland, 27.

The chopper crashed in Saturday's predawn hours in Goodman, about 80 miles south of Montgomery - after picking up Strickland from the scene of a highway crash.

"The weather was described as inclement, foggy," said Peter Knudson, a spokesman for the National Transportation Safety Board. "We will be getting more specifics about visibility and the weather conditions the helicopter would have been encountering."

The aircraft was found in a heavily wooded and marshy area, and the plan Monday was to recover the wreckage from the remote area, Knudson said.

"Once they are able to get the helicopter to dry, higher ground, they will work on documenting the components of the wreckage," he said.

The helicopter had been called after a motorist struck a ditch and a utility pole in a one-car vehicle crash about 11 p.m. Friday, Trooper Kevin Cook was quoted by the Dothan Eagle as saying. The helicopter took off with the motorist, and was reported missing at 12:17 a.m. Saturday. The wreckage was later discovered about a half-mile from the scene of the vehicle crash, the newspaper reported.

Metro Aviation Inc. of Shreveport, Louisiana, which operated the helicopter for an Alabama ambulance company, issued a statement Monday saying that the company "places safety at the top of our priority list" and that a company response team is assisting federal authorities with the investigation.

It will likely take several months or as much as a year or longer for the NTSB to determine the cause of the crash, Knudson said.

The pilot, 29-year-old Hammond, was a husband, father and son. He joined Metro Aviation in October 2015, and previously was an instructor at Cloud 9 Helicopters in Florida. He attended George C. Wallace State Community College, and was a 2005 graduate of Eufaula High School. Just three years ago, the Federal Aviation Administration recognized Hammond with inclusion in the FAA Airmen Certification Database. According to the website, the certification is for pilots who have met or exceeded the high educational, licensing and medical standards established by the FAA.

Hammond's friends have made a video tribute to him in his memory.

Cernadas, 38, had been a flight nurse since September. Born in Huntsville but raised in Georgia, she was also a trauma nurse in Montgomery and a former flight attendant. Her father, Javier Cernadas, told WAFF in Huntsville, was living out her dream to be a flight nurse. "Stasi had a larger than life personality and had many, many friends all around the U.S.,'' her father told the television station Saturday. "I can tell you that while we are extremely saddened by today's events, we are immensely proud of Stasi. She loved more than anything being a flight nurse and helping those in critical need."

Snipes was previously a supervisor with RPS and based in Shelby County. McDonnell said he was an outstanding paramedic, especially to be so young. "To be as young as he was, he was a great paramedic. They usually come out of school scared or thinking they know everything, but not Jason. He was a sponge. He was pretty impressive, really."

Snipes left RPS to eventually join Haynes. "He was always wanting to fly,'' McDonnell said. "That's been a dream of his for quite some time."

"He often contacted his patients afterward,'' he said. "He cared for every patient he picked up. This is just heartbreaking."

Strickland - the patient - was almost home when he was involved in the car crash that ultimately led to him being on the rescue helicopter. Close friend Mike Shroades said Strickland owned about 20 to 40 acres and was less than 500 feet from turning on to his property when the crash happened. After inheriting money from his grandparents, he had bought his parents a home and moved into a double-wide he put out back.

"He would bend over backwards to help anybody," Shroades said. He said it was several years ago that Strickland saved Shroades' life following a dirt bike accident. Strickland told him he needed to go to the hospital, but Shroades said he was being hard-headed and resisted. "He threw me in the truck and drove 110 miles per hour for hours to get me to a hospital,'' he said. "When we got there, they told me I would have been dead in 30 more minutes. I give all the respect I can to him for saving my life."

Strickland, he said, didn't live fancy or dress fancy but probably owned more than 120 cars. "He loved cars, trucks, four-wheelers, he loved it all,'' Shroades said. "He lived life to the fullest."

Shroades said the two were close, and Strickland was well-known in the small community. "Everybody knew Zach,'' he said. "Behind all of the tattoos was nothing but a big heart. I am devastated."

Haynes Ambulance of Alabama issued this statement: "Words cannot explain the hurt that the Haynes LifeFlight/Ambulance is feeling. We would like to thank everyone for their support during these difficult times. It is truly heart-warming. Please continue to keep the families in your prayers as they have suffered tremendous loss. Godspeed Chad, Stacey, Jason, Zach. You're gone but will never be forgotten. You have earned your wings, now wear them proudly."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A McCalla man is charged with assault and DUI after authorities say he crashed into a Hueytown home Saturday night, seriously injuring a 7-year-old boy who became trapped under the SUV.

The crash happened just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday in the 3400 block of Jeanne Lane. Hueytown police Chief Chuck Hagler said the SUV driven by Jeremy Ross Guarnieri barreled into the home, with most of the vehicle entering the child's bedroom.

"I believe they had to remove the child from under the SUV,'' Hagler said.

The child was taken to Children's of Alabama. His condition hasn't been released. Guarnieri, 36, was taken into custody at the scene.

Today, Hueytown detectives obtained warrants against Guarnieri for first-degree assault and driving under the influence. He is awaiting transfer to the Jefferson County Jail where his bond will be set at $30,000.

Court records show Guarnieri was convicted of third-degree assault in 2005 after he hit another man in the back of the head with a beer bottle at Sharkey's Lounge. He received a one-year suspended sentence for the misdemeanor conviction.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected a request by Lam Luong's request to review his capital murder conviction in the deaths of his four children, who were tossed off a Dauphin Island bridge in 2008.

In a brief statement the U.S. Supreme Court denied certiorari Luong's case. The court did not comment on the merits of Luong's appeal, just that it wouldn't review the case.

Luong had argued, among other things, in the appeal of his 2009 conviction that a judge erred when he didn't allow the trial be moved out of Mobile County because of pre-trial publicity of the case.

The Alabama Criminal Court of Appeals in 2013 overturned Luong's conviction citing the judge's refusal to move the trial. However, the Alabama Supreme Court in 2014 overruled the Court of Criminal Appeals decision and reinstated Luong's conviction.

Luong was sentenced to death. He is currently on Alabama Death Row.
A Falkville school employee has been arrested for having a sexual relationship with a student, the latest in a string of similar incidents across north Alabama.

David Thomas Solomon, 25, of Huntsville was arrested Monday and charged with being a school employee engaging in a sex act of deviant sexual intercourse with a student. Solomon, a contract employee, was working as a teacher's aide at Falkville High School.

Investigators began probing Solomon's actions after the girl, who was 17 years old at the time of the incident, reported the alleged relationship to school officials in October. They immediately called the Falkville Police police and terminated Solomon's contract, according to police.

Investigators determined that the alleged sexual contact occurred at Solomon's former home in Hartselle, so the case was turned over to the Hartselle Police Department. Solomon reportedly admitted to the crime when interviewed.

Solomon turned himself in to police and was transferred to the Morgan County Jail, where his bond was set at $5,000. He's since been released.

The former teacher's aide is the fourth educator arrested in March for allegedly having sexual relationships with students.

Two teacher's aides at East Limestone High School have been charged, along with a teacher at Decatur High School. Each was arrested in separate incidents.
Citing in part his support for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, students at the University of Alabama in Huntsville are protesting U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions as the keynote speaker at spring graduation.

A petition on Change.org points to an array of reasons Sessions should not be welcome as the graduation speaker but primarily focuses on his growing ties with Trump, the GOP front runner.

Sessions is chair of the Trump campaign's National Security Advisory Committee and has been a strong influence on Trump's immigration policies. Sessions, who arranged a meeting between Trump and GOP leaders earlier this month in Washington, has also been speculated as a vice presidential candidate.

Despite the petition, posted over the weekend and now with 315 signatures by midday Monday, the school stood by its decision to tap Sessions as the graduation speaker for the May 1 event at the Von Braun Center.

"The Honorable Jeff Sessions has ably served the people of Alabama as United States Senator since 1997, and was the unanimous choice for Commencement speaker of a diverse selection committee that represents students, faculty and staff," the school said in a statement to AL.com. "As a university that values inclusiveness, we welcome Senator Sessions with the respect and civility that he and his office deserve."

Dalton Hicks, a UAH junior majoring in aerospace engineering who, along with girlfriend and UAH graduate Victoria Forrester, started the petition, acknowledged that preventing Sessions from speaking may not be possible.

"Getting things to change in such a quick manner like this may not be feasible," Hicks told AL.com on Monday. "We do want to put forward the message that a large part of the student population did not agree with this decision. If they are able to remove him as the speaker and replace him with someone who is more indicative of the whole of UAH, the diversity of UAH, that would be amazing.

"But at least this gets the information to them that this wasn't OK, you kind of dropped the ball here, you could have done a lot better with the speaker and you didn't. It just lets them know to try not to do this again."

In the petition stated that Sessions' presence as the speaker "only enrages the student body and in no way represents the whole of this University."

"It is known that Republican Presidential Candidate Donald J. Trump has said many inflammatory remarks towards women, the disabled, and immigrants," the petition states in part. "All of which are populations not to be forgotten at this university. Whereas, Donald J. Trump has proposed a large amount of cuts and downsizing of the Department of Education that will likely interfere with the federal funds necessary to run our beautiful institution and provide students the opportunity of a higher education. This in turn will cause a rise in the cost of attendance of an establishment of higher education which runs counter to the wishes of the student body at this university.

"While we as students at this university understand that listening to all voices can allow for better communication of ideas and an equal understanding of all views, this Commencement Ceremony is not the time or place for such. This speech is something to inspire and send off students to the larger world. You want to leave them motivated and driven and we believe that this choices only enrages the student body and in no way represents the whole of this University."

Hicks said that Sessions' voting record on higher education funding, his support of Trump and his lack of support for LGBT citizens played roles in starting the petition.

He also said that Sessions did not measure up to NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, the December graduation ceremony speaker.

"Either the university was blind to that or somebody messed up something along the line or there is some other underlying reason," Hicks said. "That doesn't gel with us, the students."

Updated March 28, 2016, at 4:27 p.m. with comments from UAH junior Dalton Hicks.
Two people were killed in a possible double suicide late Sunday morning when they were struck by an Amtrak train about two miles south of Oregon City, officials said.

Cascades train No. 506 was traveling from Eugene to Portland, Oregon, when it struck two people on the tracks at 10:50 a.m., Amtrak spokesman Mike Tolbert said. The train's end destination was Seattle.

Deputy Marcus Mendoza, a spokesman with the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, said initial indications show the deaths were suicides.

No identification of the victims, or their ages or genders, was immediately available. The sheriff's office said the victims would be identified after the initial investigation and next of kin is notified.

Officials with Canby police, Amtrak, Union Pacific, which owns the tracks, and the county Medical Examiner's Office were also on the scene. The sheriff's office was leading the investigation.

The train was sitting stopped about a mile and a half north of South End Road at noon as the investigation continued. Police were seen inspecting the front of the train. Mendoza said the collision occurred between 500 and 1,000 feet south of where the train had stopped.

Tolbert said 38 passengers were on the train. He said none of them, nor any crew members, were injured.

He said about 150 passengers had been waiting to board the train at Union Station in Portland. He said an alternate train had been brought into service to pick up those passengers and begin their trip north. He anticipated their noon departure would occur as scheduled.

Tolbert said after authorities conclude their investigation, the train involved in the collision would continue to Portland. The train left the area and continued on its trip shortly before 1:15 p.m.

The sheriff's office said no vehicular traffic was affected by the incident.

This story will be updated as details emerge.

-- Andre Meunier

503-221-8488
Sites at three Alabama military facilities are among the more than 600 sites nationwide being examined for possible contaminated groundwater, military officials have confirmed.

The three state sites - Fort McClellan in Anniston, Fort Rucker in Dale County and Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery - are among 664 nationwide being examined after concerns were raised over possible contamination at sites where the military conducted fire or crash training using chemical foam to fight fires. The Alabama locations include the former fire training pit and consolidated maintenance facility at the now-closed Fort McLellan; the firefighting area at Fort Rucker; and training areas number one andt two at Maxwell Air Force Base.

"(We) have just begun the process of evaluating these sites to assess the risk to groundwater in accordance with Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act," Department of Defense spokesperson Lt. Col. Eric Badger said. "Because we are in the early stages of the cleanup process, we do not have the full scope of the extent of the PFC contamination and the actions the department needs to take to address the risks to human health and the environment."

Tests have been conducted at 28 Navy sites since December, Military Times reported. Two sites - one in Virginia and another in New Jersey - contained contaminant levels above Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. Tests on wells near the Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress in Chesapeake, Virginia indicated the presence of perfluorinated chemicals, of PFCs, which have been linked to prostate, kidney and testicular cancer, as well as other health issues.

The other locations tested below federal guidelines or results are still pending.

The contamination is linked to foam that is used to extinguish fuel fires, such as one that could occur in the event of a plane crash. The foam contains perfluorooctane sulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid, both of which are considered possible contaminants by the EPA.

The foam is now only being used in actual emergencies and is in the process of replacing it with a version without perfluorinated chemicals.
An American Airlines flight was canceled over the weekend when the co-pilot was suspected of being drunk, according to CNN.

The co-pilot, who has not been identified, was taken into custody after failing a Breathalyzer test at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport on Saturday.

Airport police were called to one of the airport's terminals after people had reported the co-pilot appearing to be drunk.

Police administered a Breathalyzer test at the airport, and local police later administered more sobriety tests at the police station.

All tests reportedly showed that the co-pilot was "over the legal limit for operating an aircraft," authorities told CNN.

He is facing pending charges, but was released from the police department after his alcohol levels dropped down to normal.

The flight, American Airlines 736, was canceled and passengers had to be re-accommodated on other flights, the news report said.
E.O. Wilson

E.O. Wilson studies an ant population found in a decaying log deep in the Red Hills, north of Monroeville. Wilson brought a team of insect specialists to the area to begin cataloguing the creatures there. He described the Red Hills and Mobile-Tensaw Delta as one of the last great places for biological discovery, on par with the upper Amazon. (Ben Raines/Press-Register)

(BEN RAINES)

E. O. Wilson, perhaps the most famous living scientist in the world, will be in Alabama this week to receive the Harper Lee Award as Alabama's Distinguished Writer of the Year for 2016.

The annual award honors Alabama writers for their life's work. With two Pulitzer prizes under his belt, and more than 30 books published, including his latest work, Half-Earth, Wilson's staggering literary output is matched by his scientific achievements.

Credited with discovering more than 450 new species, the Alabama native also formulated an entirely new way of thinking about the biological world, and the intertwining connections between species.

What follows is a transcript from a 2012 interview conducted with Wilson in a wooded glen in the Red Hills, outside of Monroeville. The interview was conducted by Lynn Rabren and me in connection with our documentary, America's Amazon, which was dedicated to Wilson and featured him prominently.

I've interviewed Dr. Wilson about a dozen times, and spent a number of days in the field with him. This interview ranks as a personal favorite, partly for the range of topics he covers, and for the insight into his expansive world view.

The Interview

Question: Describe the importance of these Alabama forests.

Wilson: Most people, even people down here in Mobile, right next to it, think of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta forest -- that's what it is, a flood plain forest -- as that swamp. They recognize it as a pretty wild place, and it is. A wilderness area. Seven or eight miles across at the mouth there at Mobile Bay. But scientists, naturalists, can tell you that this is a very special place in the United States, and North America.

For example, or I should say to wit, it is arguably, the biologically richest place, the delta floodplain forest and swamp, and the area immediately round it, including the Red Hills to the north, where we are seated. It has more species of plants and animals than any comparable area anywhere in North America, the United States and Canada.

Let me just tick it off. We have as many, or more, kinds of salamanders than any place in the world, or close to it. In fact, where we are is just a few hundred yards from where a whole new species of salamander was discovered. We have the largest number of fish. Alabama has the largest number of fish of any state, 350. A large percentage of those are in the Delta or in the surrounding streams. We have some of the richest forests in terms of the number of species.

For example, right here where we are in the Red Hills and then on down into the delta, you have 20 species of oaks. Twenty kinds of oaks. Now, the Appalachians brag about having 15 species of oaks. We'll, right here you have 20. And here is the clincher as far as I am concerned, this area, southwest Alabama, including the delta and the Red Hills, has the largest number of turtle species of any place in the world.

The closest approach is a floodplain in a part of India. But we are, for the size of the area they are packed into, we are the world leaders in turtles alone. That means the delta swamp and the floodplain forest, which is pretty much a wilderness of several hundred thousand square miles, is a place yet completely unexplored, sort of like the upper Amazon.

There are so many things here yet to be discovered. They include bear. We have here the location of the only surviving population of the Florida bear in this part of the country. We have bobcats. We have a variety of other predator or predatory species. We have a variety of species that make their living from plants, or in the water or out.

A species most people have never heard of is the jaguarundi, which is a pretty big cat, you know, wild cat size or larger. It's a close relative of the puma or mountain lion. The jaguarundi. I could go on and on, and tell you why it is such an exciting experience for a naturalist such as myself to visit the Delta and the Red Hills, and why we have so much more to learn. And why as people become more aware of what is here, people will realize they can find here adventure, and wonderful things to see.

At this point, an ant crawls across Wilson's arm.

I've got an ant to add to the collection. It's a carpenter ant. I'm sure we have them, but I'll add this one.

Question: When did you realize the Delta and Alabama were such special places?

Wilson: When I was a kid, just a boy, a 13-year-old kid back in the 40s, I'd take my bike and ride across the causeway to Spanish Fort. It seemed like such a place of mystery, such a tremendous amount of wilderness, but I didn't have any sense. By the time I got to college, I knew a lot more about turtles, animals and so on.

I would go by the delta and around it along the causeway, and say, 'Good Lord, this would be wonderful to be an explorer in this place.' You know, in the same way you say, I'd like to go in the upper amazon and discover life there, and discover new things, or Borneo or some place like that. I used to say when I was in college that I was going to come back here and I'm going to be an explorer of the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. There wasn't much interest then, not even among scientists. It's only gradually we've come to understand what a treasure this delta is.

So, I was thinking about it then, and now, how should I put it, in the autumn of my career, I am here. I am participating in studies -- in my case, all the different kinds of ants that are here -- in a new scientific effort to explore the delta. And that effort will go on for many many years, even generations.

There is so much here, and so little explored. People think it is exciting to discover a new species, well, it is happening all the time here. Dozens of new species.

Actually, when we start getting more volunteers, naturalists working in the Delta, I think we are going to find that people going out on field trips will be finding even more new species themselves.

Question: Why is biodiversity important?

All biodiversity is important, because every species matters. A little bit of biodiversity matters. For example, in the great coniferous forests of the Yukon, not many species, but every one of them is important and interesting.

When you get into a species rich environment, like the Mobile-Tensaw Delta -- and I cannot emphasize enough that this is number one in the United States for its area -- and you've got a lot of species, and everyone of them is important.

Because we don't know what all this is going to come to in terms of the human future. We already know it is important to maintain forest like this in as good as condition as possible, for the carbon cycle, trapping carbon, keeping this area of the world stable, but we also know that many of these species and organisms here, if we study each one deeply, are going to tell us and reveal secrets and tell us about life in medicine, biochemistry, environmental management and so on. Most people have no idea how little explored a system like this is, and what great yields to human welfare and medicine a system like this can give. This is its great importance.

Question: What should the future of the Delta look like?

Wilson: Whenever you have a great natural area like this, and I've been to them all over the world, the first thought is because it is so important, don't destroy it. Save it. Save the parts that are the richest. And this is one. This is one of the richest places in the United States.

Then, I see biology developing in this century, and I've given a lot of thought to this, continuing along the traditional route of molecular biology, and so on, which is good and true, that's at the level of the molecule, and how a cell multiples.

But I also see biology evolving a whole new second front, the discovering biodiversity, and mapping it. As we map it, we're going to be discovering the details of how it is all put together, and how environments like these manage to stay together. Then, we will, in retrospect, be very happy we saved it.

This area, is not yet heavily populated. It should receive some serious recognition, and then perhaps status, that will not keep people out, but will encourage them to come in. It could be a historical site, or a national wildlife refuge or a national park, that's what we need to be thinking about, so we have the most of this to pass on to future generations.

Here Wilson talks about visiting an area in Florida, Paradise Beach, in his youth. It was at Paradise Beach that one of Wilson's eyes was damaged by pinfish fin.

I was born in 1936. Crystal-clear water, eel grass all over, fish everywhere. I went back, ten years ago now, 15 years ago. I was so eager to get back to Paradise Beach. Boy what a disappointment. The water, you couldn't see this far, just murky. Just looked unsavory. Paradise Beach. Hmmph.

So let's hang on to this. I suppose that what I hope will happen soon, that the rest of the country and the rest of the world became aware of this Delta. And let's suppose we agreed we wouldn't intrude, we wouldn't disturb it anymore than necessary until we really understood what we had. We would certainly want to keep part of it open to hunting and fishing, even if got protected status. I believe that's important for the people and the culture here and it wouldn't harm it, to have hunting and fishing.

What we should be doing is taking every measure we can to keep from harming it around the edges. That is building heavy industry, for example. There are other places in Alabama that can stand the weight of heavy industry. Refineries, timber operations, so on. And also, we should be paying attention to the quality of the water all through this area. Much more attention than we are paying we should be giving to this area. And making sure we do not continue practices that harm the water. In fact, we should reverse them in order to have less turbidity, less silt and mud accumulation in critical areas.

We need to study and show just what procedures to follow and which to avoid. I'm rather hoping the University of South Alabama can help. Other universities in the state can help figure out what kinds of studies we need to create a strong economic growth for this area.

It is remarkable to have a wilderness area like the one we are sitting in right here right next to Mobile. An area like this one we're sitting in right here, right next to Mobile. I've been in a lot of national parks, national monuments, wilderness areas, that kind of thing. I can't think of a single one like Mobile and the Delta, where you could start downtown, you can step into your car at Government Center, in the heart of Mobile, drive through the tunnel, and 15 minutes, you're there, in this great wilderness. There is nothing like it anywhere in the country.

When people see this as a treasure, not just a swamp, when it becomes more famous, it will certainly draw more and more people here, people who want to visit it and see what we have anytime we want to drive out of the center of Mobile.

So many great things here. I was surprised when we went out, Ben, when we got out at the shell mounds, that this goes well back, maybe thousands of years. Then we have the Bottle Creek mounds. Those just add tremendously.

Why now, it is finally coming to the consciousness of the people determined to speak out and do something.

I've been asked how does my experience as a returning Alabamian, which I've been all my life, I've been in exile. What's special for me? I am a naturalist. The functioning of natural ecosystems and the saving of species from extinction has been my way of life, my study. To actually combine the turning point, and developing a sense of place, combining those two together is an exhilarating experience at my relatively advanced age.

We need to lift our expression of feeling and our understanding of this state. And I really belong to this state. Did you know everyone of my forebears lived here in this state. They are all here.

There is a need now to address the subject of Alabama, of Mobile, and of the Mobile Tensaw Delta wilderness. By that I mean we don't need many more Chamber of Commerce type advertisements. Visit Mobile...

We don't want to hear the standard treatment of what is a great state. We want to see Alabama as the subject of great literature, an epic state... People say that's just blue sky, he's lost it like a vapor blowing away in the wind. But if the excitement of Manhattan streets translates to great art, if Steinbeck can go to a fishing place and write a great work of art... Alabama should be such a place that can be celebrated like that.

Question: How should we address the growing population and pressure on the environment?

I think you can see what is happening. Maybe it would take you ten years to see it. But Mobile is growing. Mobile is a continuous urban area now to Mississippi and south to the Dog River. That was all mostly wilderness when I was a boy. It's growing and that's fine, but with growth comes pressure. And with growth comes industry. Well if the Delta and the Red Hills are not protected, there are going to be incursions. It's starting now. As Mobile grows into an increasingly important deep south city, we really have a moral obligation to protect it.

What will happen if we let it go? What will happen if we just do nothing? It's been here for tens of thousands of years. Well, Mobile is growing. It deserves to grow. It's a deep south port city. It's growing, we have suburbs all the way. Mobile is going to continue to grow. And with growth comes the economic need for jobs, and it brings with it a pressure to expand in space and environmental impact, and consumption. That will happen, and that makes it more important to not let the delta go, because it could be quickly eroded and adulterated.

I think we have a moral obligation to not let that happen. It's not going to cost a lot. Quite the contrary. I think saving the delta and the Red Hills, and presenting them as they should be presented, as a great asset for Mobile and the surrounding area, will result in economic growth and more jobs, quite separate from what we would get from more conventional ways.

For more about Wilson and his Alabama adventures, read E.O. Wilson and the Ant Freaks.

Or take a trip in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta with Wilson here in Lord of the Ants E.O. Wilson comes home to save the Delta.

Ben Raines will lead a discussion with E.O. Wilson during the Harper Lee Award presentation, on Friday, April 1. Follow Ben Raines as he explores Alabama's natural wonders on Facebook, or Twitter at Ben H. Raines. Shoot him an email with questions or story ideas at braines@al.com.
Outpatient commitment in Alabama

Stephanie Schnadelbach is examined by R.N. Teresa Lanier at AltaPointe Outpatient Services in Mobile, Ala., on March 26, 2015. (Sharon Steinmann/ssteinmann@al.com)

(Sharon Steinmann)

Expanding Medicaid could help 85,000 low-income people in Alabama who are struggling with substance abuse and mental illness, according to a new report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

People with mental illness account for more than 30 percent of the low-income uninsured in Alabama, according to the report. Studies show that people with Medicaid coverage are more likely to seek care than their uninsured counterparts.

The costs of treating mental illness and substance abuse among low-income residents have typically fallen to the states. Alabama and many other states have cut the budgets of mental health agencies, resulting in the loss of state treatment beds. This, in turn, has put pressure on hospital emergency rooms, which frequently treat patients in mental health crisis.

The report highlighted some examples of improved care for mental illness and substance abuse disorders in states that expanded Medicaid. In Oregon, for instance, people newly eligible for Medicaid had a lower probability of depression.

In Alabama, expanding Medicaid could translate to 16,000 fewer people reporting symptoms of depression, according to the report.

States that expanded Medicaid also had higher rates of growth in the number of doctors certified to prescribe medication for substance abuse disorders, according to the report. According to the CDC, Alabama has the highest rate of opioid prescriptions per capita in the country.

Homeless people in Alabama, who suffer from high rates of mental illness and substance use disorders, could be one of the groups most likely to benefit from Medicaid expansion, according to the report.

The federal government is paying all the costs of Medicaid expansion through 2016, but President Barack Obama has proposed to increase that for another three years for the 20 states that have not expanded coverage, including Alabama.

States will ultimately shoulder 10 percent of the costs of expansion. Opponents of Medicaid expansion have said the costs could top $200 million a year in Alabama. Legislators have shown little appetite for increasing the Medicaid budget, and are currently considering a funding plan that would leave the agency about $85 million short of the full amount requested by the commissioner. The budget proposed by legislators could jeopardize a plan to control Medicaid costs by transitioning to managed care, said Gov. Robert Bentley.

Still, according to the report, some states that expanded Medicaid saved money on mental health expenditures. Connecticut, Nevada and Washington State all experienced reductions in general fund spending on mental health services after Medicaid expansion, according to the report.

"Several states that expanded Medicaid reported that they expected reductions in general funds needing to be allocated to the uninsured for treatment ranging from $7 million to $190 million in 2015," according to a release about the report.

Although Medicaid does pay for many behavioral health services, it doesn't pay for all of them. The program does not usually reimburse for the costs of inpatient treatment in freestanding psychiatric hospitals. A pilot program in California does allow reimbursement for inpatient substance abuse treatment in some qualifying programs, said Vikki Wachino, director for the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services.
Mother Angelica has passed away today at the age of 92, according to the Eternal Word Television Network.

EWTN, the world's largest Catholic satellite network, was founded by Mother Angelica out of a garage next to the monastery she started in Irondale.

Mother Angelica also hosted a long-running talk show. Her show is still seen on reruns internationally.

She even received a video message from Pope Francis last month, when he asked the nun to pray for him.

Her health has declined over the year, but she wanted to remain alive as long as possible, she said.

She once told her fellow nuns, "We don't understand the awesomeness of living even one more day... I told my sisters the other day, 'When I get really bad give me all the medicine I can take, all the tubes you can stuff down me.'

'Why'd you want that?'

'I want to live.'

'Why?'

"Because I will have suffered one more day for the love of God... I will exercise you in virtue. But most of all I will know God better. You cannot measure the value of one new thought about God in your own life.'"

Her greatest talent, a gift of gab that built an international media empire that broadcasts to 80 million homes, eluded her in the last few years. Mother Angelica has had health problems most of her life, from an accident that left her in leg braces to 2001 stroke that caused her to wear an eye patch. She suffered another stroke in 2001, which left her mostly unable to speak. She also had health problems like Bell's palsy, heart disease, and asthma.

On most days, pilgrims arrive from all over the world to visit the grounds of the shrine that Mother Angelica built at an estimated cost of more than $30 million, paid for by donations, on 300 acres outside Hanceville. It has a stone castle with 40-foot-tall turrets for a visitors' center, with nine suits of armor, 600-year-old wood plank tables, medieval manuscripts, and a gift shop inside.

She also built a worldwide shortwave radio station, WEWN, on top of a mountain in Shelby County in 1992.

The nuns in Hanceville have provided Mother Angelica with constant care.

Birmingham Bishop Robert Baker said about her passing: "Mother Angelica brought the truth and the love and the life of the Gospel of Jesus to so many people, not only to our Catholic household of faith, but to many thousands of people who are not Catholic, in that beautiful way she had of touching lives, bringing so many people into the Catholic Faith."

Michael Warsaw, EWTN Chairman and CEO, released a statement: "This is a sorrow-filled day for the entire EWTN Family. Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded... Everything she did was an act of faith."

EWTN asked for prayers during this time.

AL.com reporter Greg Garrison co-wrote this report.
Easter egg hunt.jpg

(Wikimedia Commons)

An Easter egg hunt held at the PEZ Visitor Center in Connecticut was ruined over the weekend as parents "bum-rushed" the area where eggs were hidden, trampling toddlers and stealing eggs right out of children's baskets.

PEZ officials said in a statement that more than 9,000 eggs were placed on three different fields, with the goal of having staggered start times for the different age groups. The event was held at the PEZ Visitors Center in Orange, Connecticut.

"Unfortunately people chose to enter the first field prior to anyone from PEZ staff starting the activity," the company said in a statement.

The crowd of hundreds then moved on to the second and third fields, stripping each of its candy before the events there had started.

A parent at the scene described the situation for WFSB out of Hartford.

The PEZ Visitors Center in Orange, Connecticut is pictured. (PEZ.com)

"When it came time at like 10:30 a.m., the parents just bum-rushed that area," West Haven resident Nicole Welch, who attended the event with her 4-year-old son, told the station.

Pez General Manager Shawn Peterson described the crowd as "kind of like locusts."

Peterson said he and other event organizers tried to stop the crowd from rushing the fields by telling them each hunt was supposed to start at a certain time.

"Well that lasted about a minute and everyone just rushed the field and took everything," Peterson told the news station.

Welch said children were trampled and knocked over and that parents were grabbing eggs out of other peoples' baskets. No one was seriously injured, but some children left crying and with broken Easter baskets.

Many people posted to PEZ's Facebook page to complain about the parents ruining the event, which was the company's third annual hunt.

Aloha Pez! Mahalo for trying to give a community a wonderful event. Too bad some parents "adults" ruined it with... Posted by Kaawaloa Kekauoha Taylor on Monday, March 28, 2016

Yet one more example of what a crazy country we live in. Really people? Adults rioting at an Easter Egg Hunt? All of you should be ashamed of yourselves-but chances are THAT won't happen. Posted by Teresa Alice on Monday, March 28, 2016

Thank you PEZ for offering a generous & kind Easter event. The parents that behaved like spoiled children destroyed the... Posted by Dawn Prior on Monday, March 28, 2016

PEZ rocks! Thanks from Wallingford for trying to organize an event that greedy parents had to ruin. Please don't ever give up on the community because of a few horrible parents. Posted by Peter Gouveia on Monday, March 28, 2016

Good for you PEZ for stopping the Easter egg hunt before any kids got hurt! Blame it on the greedy Parents for ruining the event not you! Posted by Eric Wise on Monday, March 28, 2016

PEZ officials attempted to ensure that all of the children at the event left with treats, despite the chaos.

"We made efforts to get everyone something before they left and passed out tons of candy and coupons and the front entry and tried to make the best of an unfortunate situation," the company said in its statement. "Due to the actions of a few, the good intent quickly turned into a mess."

"I would like to sincerely apologize to each of our guests; this was not something created to frustrate or make people angry. We only wanted to do good for the local community."
Al Jazeera spoke to Irelands president and other prominent society members on the occasion of Easter Rising centenary.

Dublin, Ireland  This week Irish people mark the centenary of the Easter Rising with commemorations across the country lasting until April 24. The uprising against the British Empire, which took place in Dublin and other cities and towns in Ireland during Easter week in 1916, marked a turning point in Irish history.

On Easter Monday, 100 years ago, rebels seized buildings across the capital and declared an Irish republic. But the empire responded and 485 people were killed before the rebels laid down their weapons and surrendered.

Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Dublin on Sunday to mark this anniversary in what was the largest commemorative event in the countrys history. President Michael D Higgins laid a wreath at Kilmainham Gaol, where 14 of the 16 rebel leaders executed by the British were killed by firing squad.

The nation has journeyed many miles from the shell-shocked and burning Dublin of 1916, said the president. We can see that in many respects we have not fully achieved the dreams and ideals for which our forebears gave so much. A democracy is always and must always be a work in progress, and how we use the independence we have been gifted will continue to challenge us, morally and ethically.

Further commemorations are planned to remember all the victims throughout the month.

Al Jazeera spoke to some key figures in Irish society about the significance of these events for Ireland today.

Michael D Higgins, president of Ireland

Michael D Higgins was elected to the Irish presidency in 2011. He is the ninth president of Ireland, an author, poet, politician and sociologist who has been heavily involved in the 1916 commemorations.

No matter what way you view it, 1916 is a major foundational event in terms of the Irish state, as it has emerged.

Nineteen sixteen always played an important role in my life. For the 75th anniversary, I participated as a poet in an event called The Flaming Door, which was ran by poets and took place at the GPO featuring around 100 readings.

Later that day in Kilmainham gaol, where 15 leaders had been executed in 1916, there was a concert to honour those victims. It was an event not organised by the state, but by the cultural community. For me, 1916 is much easier to deal with than the civil war, which took place in Ireland between 1922 and 1923.

After 1916, some families had members who died in the Somme and others who died in Dublin. Then in the civil war, these families were divided again, as was mine. It did terrible damage. When civil wars happen as a result of legacies of empires, people do unto each other what they had done unto them.

Paddy Cullivan, satirist, writer and musician

Paddy Cullivan is a celebrated Irish entertainer who created an audiovisual spectacle for the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising called The Ten Dark Secrets of 1916, which he will perform in locations across Ireland from on April 24 onwards.

I chose the actual date of the Easter Rising to kick-start the performances, which will involve imagery, historical references and lots of music and song because thats when it actually happened, rather than some lunisolar calendar event.

What I find most interesting about the Rising commemorations is that we dont even have a government in place this week, because no one got a majority vote in the recent elections. In my show, I will be drawing out fundamental changes that need to happen in Ireland.

Aoibheann McCann, actress

Aoibheann McCann is an Irish actress, who is currently starring as suffragette and activist Maria Winifred Carney in a film, which is part of the GPO Witness History exhibition, a flagship visitor attraction at the General Post Office in Dublin, the headquarters of the rebels during the 1916 Rising.

Maria Winifred Carney was an incredibly strong and admirable woman who was famous for entering the GPO with a typewriter and a Webley revolver.

After the leaders of 1916 surrendered, she and along with some other female rebels were sent to prison in Ireland and later in the UK.

Im very proud to have played her and am glad visitors get to know who she was and what she fought for. These women were soldiers, who fought for human rights and womens rights and now 100 years later, we are still fighting for equality in Ireland, especially in relation to our archaic abortion laws.

Sir Jack Leslie, 4th Baronet, war hero born in 1916

Centenarian Sir Jack Leslie will be celebrating his 100th birthday this year. The World War II veteran, ex-prisoner of war was born in New York in 1916.

My family and I travelled over to Ireland where we settled in Castle Leslie on the Northern Irish border. My father Shane Leslie supported the ideals of Irish nationalism.

Before the Easter Rising took place, my father was recruited to aid the Irish-born British ambassador in Washington. When members of the rebellion were sentenced to death, they urged for clemency towards them.

Some of the rebels had US connections, most notably Eamon de Valera, a senior commander were spared execution. He went on to be Irish Taoiseach, president and one of the most divisive figures in Irish history.

After the rising, de Valera was made godfather to my sister Anita. Because my fathers first cousin was Winston Churchill, he was her other godparent. I even have a picture of them all together somewhere.

Turtle Bunbury, historian and author of Easter Dawn, the 1916 Rising

Turtle Bunbury is an award-wining author and historian based in Ireland, whose book Easter Dawn, the 1916 Rising charts the fight for Irish independence from the landing of guns for the Irish Volunteers in 1914 to the arrests and executions that followed the Rising.

As a historian, the Easter Rising is of great interest to me and has been since I was a child growing up in County Carlow in Ireland.

A great lady who had an immense interest in Irish historical events half raised me and since I was 13, I have been interviewing historical figures. I wrote the book, because I was inspired by the extraordinary alliance of men and women who sought to overthrow the British authorities, who had ruled the island for 800 years.

Fiach Mac Conghail, director of the Abbey Theatre, Dublin

Fiach Mac Conghail is the director of Dublins famous Abbey Theatre, which was founded in 1904 and played an integral role in the Easter Rising in 1916.

We have created a programme Waking the Nation, which will bring together some of the finest actors, writers and theatre makers in the world in order to reflect, interrogate and provoke.

Its an extremely exciting and challenging time to be in this role. We not only want to pay homage to the rising historically and culturally, but we also want to reflect on Ireland today.

In April 1916 members of the Abbey acting company left the theatre to join the Easter Rising. The first rebel to be killed in the rising was an actor. Back then theatre was the only platform for spreading ideals, now there are a multitude of them, yet theatre still holds an important place in commemorations this year.

Jim FitzPatrick, artist

Jim FitzPatrick is an internationally acclaimed artist whose two-tone image of Cuban revolutionary Che Guevara from 1968 became a symbol of resistance to oppression. He has just completed a series of the seven signatories of the Proclamation.

The paintings are my most important to date. These men died for our freedom, so I want everyone to remember their names. I felt compelled to create something that would not just honour these men, but also preserve their passion and courage and ideals.

Unfortunately, 100 years after 1916, I dont think these ideals have been honoured. I am also painting a series of the women of 1916. In my hand is an image of Countess Markievitz, who played a seminal role in the rising.

READ MORE: Ireland marks 100th anniversary of Easter Rising
There is a growing sense of neglect among Somali soldiers as they are left to deal with loss and injuries on their own.

Mogadishu, Somalia  Two men  one in military uniform, the other in a baggy button-down shirt  sat on a plastic mat in an unfurnished tin-roofed room in the heart of the Somali capital, Mogadishu. They were contemplating how they could voice their plight to those in the countrys corridors of power after many failed attempts to reach out.

Ahmed Mohamed Ibrahim and Hasan Mohamed Yusuf were active soldiers fighting on the frontlines against al-Shabab  the al-Qaeda-linked armed group fighting Somalias internationally recognised government  until they were both seriously wounded.

Twenty-five-year-old Ibrahim vividly remembers the day his life changed for ever. He was part of a group of soldiers responsible for protecting the presidential compound and the countrys seat of power, Villa Somalia, against advancing al-Shabab fighters.



WATCH: One Minute Al-Shabab

Al-Shabab wounded me in 2010. I was guarding the presidential palace. Three bullets hit my arm, shattering the bones above my elbow into pieces, Ibrahim told Al Jazeera as balls of sweat formed on his brow. That was the last time I used my arm properly.

Doctors at the local hospital told him he needed to be taken abroad for treatment to save his arm.

I dont come from a wealthy family, so there was no way I could afford to go outside Somalia for treatment. I was my familys breadwinner, he said in a soft, clear voice, void of emotion. The local hospital stitched my wound and put a bandage on it. Now, only the skin is holding my arm together.

He was only 20 when he was wounded during his second year of army service. He has not been formally discharged from the army since his injury, but since 2012, Ibrahim hasnt received any wages or compensation from the army  which probably doesnt know whether or not he is even alive, he said.

I have lost everything

Yusuf sat next to Ibrahim on the mat, staring at his own heavily scarred legs. The 37-year-old father of four said his injuries are not just physical.

I cant sleep at night. I can still smell the blood from that day, he recalls. I was not able to walk for more than a year, and I have constant pain in my head from the shrapnel wound I sustained that day. But worse than the physical pain is that I have lost everything; my wife left with my kids because I could not provide for them after I was injured.

Yusuf almost lost both legs when his convoy was hit by a roadside bomb in Mogadishu in 2007. There were more than 20 soldiers in the convoy and more than half died. Yusuf escaped with his life.

It was not my time to go, but I ask myself: Is this life worth it? Would my life have been better if I died that day? he said in a dejected voice.

Al-Shabab, active mostly in south and central Somalia, wants to overthrow the government in Mogadishu and impose a strict Islamic law in the horn of the African country of more than 10 million people.

But the group, which used to control large swaths of the country, has suffered many recent setbacks.

Somali troops, backed by thousands of African Union troops and after months of close-quarters battle on the streets of Mogadishu, were able to push al-Shabab out of the city in 2011. The rebel group, which still carries out attacks and targeted assassinations in southern Somalia, has also been forced out of most towns and cities in the country.

But the military offensive has come at a heavy price for the Somali government and the African Union.

No one knows the number of soldiers injured or killed in the ongoing fight between the Somali government and the armed group. The government does not keep a record of the soldiers injured or killed in the line of duty. Al-Shabab often exaggerates government losses.

A grieving family

Many soldiers have lost their lives fighting the armed group in the aim of restoring normality to a country struggling to stand on its feet after more than two decades of civil war.

A short drive from where the soldiers were sitting in a three-bedroom house in the Wadajir district of the city, a family was still grieving their loss.

Long past retirement age, Mohamud Gaafow Afrah, the lieutenant-colonel in the Somali navy, had refused to hang up his boots and believed his country was in need of his service. Two years ago, shortly after turning 85, Afrah was assassinated in front of the family home by two al-Shabab gunmen. The bullet holes are still visible on the walls.

They emptied their pistols into him. They stopped firing only after they ran out of bullets. Serving his country is all he did, Khadija Abukar Mohamed, Afrahs widow, told Al Jazeera. It was the only thing he knew and the only thing he ever did, she said, surrounded by her children and grandchildren as tears welled in her eyes.

Mohamed lost her husband three months before they celebrated their 30-year anniversary.

Most of the troops under Afrah were born during the countrys civil war, which started in 1991. Many lost their parents during the war. To many of his soldiers, he was a symbol of hope, a pillar to lean on in times of hardship.

He was a father figure to the troops serving under him. Many of them asked to be transferred elsewhere, and many left the force after his death, his widow added.

Afrah joined the force as the country gained independence from Italy in 1960. His two eldest sons are currently in the countrys security services  one in the police force, the other in the military. Their mother, still grief-stricken  wishes they hadnt signed up to join the countrys struggling security services.

MORE on Al Jazeeras coverage of al-Shabab in Somalia

It worries me every time they step out of our door. Our family has gone through a lot, she said. The government does not care about those serving Somalia. They did not even write us a letter or call us when my husband was killed.

But for his eldest son, Ahmed Mohamud Gaafow, the reason for joining the police force is clear: Somalia needs its people now. We should not expect others to return our country to what it was. If I dont join the police and work to bring stability to our country, who will? he asks.

Everyone will die. We will die when our time to go comes. Im happy with what I do, and I know very well how dangerous it is. But it is a risk worth taking, Gaafow added.

Foreigners in their own country

Al-Shabab is adapting its tactics and using roadside bombs more frequently, but the Somali troops wear no bulletproof vests and travel in unarmoured vehicles, unlike their African Union counterparts. This is not lost to the injured soldiers and the families of the deceased troops.

They [the Somali government and the international community] love the African Union troops more than the Somali soldiers. The foreign soldiers are treated better. They have good healthcare. Their families receive good compensation if they die. No one cares about us, Ibrahim said, with Yusuf nodding in agreement.

I want to tell our leaders only Somali soldiers can help this country  not foreigners. It is time they gave us our rights so we can continue doing our job and do it even better than we are doing now, Yusuf added.

Looking at how they are treated, you would think the Somali soldiers are the foreigners in their own country. Why should anyone care about the Somali soldiers when their own government doesnt care about them? Mohamed, the widow, asks, her soft voice filling with anger.

The Somali government denies that it has neglected its soldiers and says things are getting better for those serving the country.

We are coming from decades of civil war and have only started building our military again. It is a start, and things will get better in terms of both our troops welfare and equipment, Abdalla Hussein Ali, the deputy defence minister, told Al Jazeera.

Yes, there used to be difficulties in terms of paying the troops, but our government has put a lot of effort into this recently. Currently, the government spends more than 50 percent of its budget on its security services. Paying our troops and making sure they receive their salaries on time is now a top priority for us, Ali added.

But, to some of the troops, the promise of better times ahead might have come too late.

I have lost my family. I have seen my friends die. I can barely walk, Yusuf said.

Nothing they say or do will change that.

Follow Hamza Mohamed on Twitter: @Hamza_Africa
If you collaborate with a terror group for whatever reason, it will eventually harm you.

Kani Torun is an AK party member of the parliament and Deputy Chair of Foreign Affairs Committee.

As the violent conflict with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) rages on in eastern Turkey, the capital city of Ankara has been the target of terror attacks twice over the past two months.

The recent escalation in the conflict has cost hundreds of innocent lives.

Turkeys efforts to maintain peace in the country will continue through carefully planned military operations, while still protecting civilians.

The peace process to end the decades-old Kurdish issue, which was initiated in late 2012, has been poisoned by the PKK and its campaign of terror. The group has amplified its operations against the Turkish state as a result of the power vacuum in Syria and Iraq.

Furthermore, Turkey has been left alone in its fight against PKK terrorism, since Western governments appear unwilling to stand behind Turkey in this regard.

PKK recruiting more militants

As part of the peace process, the PKK had promised to withdraw its militants beyond the border in 2013 as the first phase before total disarmament. Instead, it recruited more militants and took up more arms against Turkey by exploiting the destabilisation of Iraq and Syria.

On the other hand, a gesture of goodwill in the name of peace was shown by the Turkish government. The Justice and Development party (AK party) gradually abolished the previous restrictions on the rights of Kurdish people, and lifted the barriers of political expression for pro-Kurdish parties.

OPINION: The wrong mindset to fight terrorism

Although the predominately Kurdish Peoples Democratic Party (HDP) passed the 10 percent electoral threshold in the June 2015 general elections, and hopes for a peaceful resolution of the Kurdish issue were high, the PKK declared a Revolutionary Peoples War and started to kill innocent civilians, police and soldiers in the name of self-governance.

When compared to the reactions in the aftermath of the Brussels attacks, the apparent tolerance towards the PKK is not persuasive when framed in terms of the struggle against terrorism. by

However, the peace process was not in vain. Today, it is clear that Kurdish people in the region have lost their faith in the PKK. The carefully executed security operations aiming to end the terrorism in Cizre, Silopi and Sur were accomplished, and military operations are ongoing in the Nusaybin, Yuksekova and Sirnak towns, with extreme caution to protect civilian lives.

Moreover, the majority of the Kurdish people have not answered the PKKs call for a Revolutionary Peoples War, nor have they heeded the HDPs call to protest against the Turkish security forces on two separate occasions.

AK partys sincerity

It appears the Kurdish people are aware of the sincerity of the AK party government in this sense.

The HDPs Nawroz meeting in Diyarbakir this year attracted only one tenth of the crowd in last years celebrations.

In light of these events, Turkey is expecting a similar approach from Western countries in its fight against terrorism.

In Europe, the PKK is freely disseminating propaganda through TV broadcasts, collecting money to finance terrorism, recruiting youth to send for terrorist training in Kandil Mountains in northern Iraq and comfortably setting up tents in city centres such as Brussels for further propaganda.

When compared with the reactions in the aftermath of the Brussels attacks, this apparent tolerance towards the PKK is illogical when framed in terms of the struggle against terrorism.

Could those who show tolerance for the PKK in the West imagine such sentiments expressed in favour of al-Qaeda or the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS)?

The collaboration of the United States with the Syrian branch of the PKK, namely the Democratic Union Party (PYD) against ISIL is an undeniable fact in todays world.

PYD is a Stalinist group

The PYD  like its parent organisation  is a Stalinist group. They killed and exiled all other Kurdish groups in PYD-controlled areas in northern Syria.

They ethnically cleansed and exiled Arabs and Turkmens from these areas, and are implementing a policy of demographic engineering in the north of Syria to establish a homogenous Kurdish region.

Recently, they also announced self-governance in northern Syria. The reason why the US supports the PYD is that they are instrumental in fighting ISIL  or so they claim.

Saying that you are against terrorism and in the meantime supporting a terrorist group is wrong in principle and a double standard by definition. You cannot support one terrorist group against another.

If you collaborate with a terror group for whatever reason, it will eventually harm you. Hence, the US and European countries should act in principle against all kinds of terrorism, otherwise no one can possibly take their discourse against terrorism seriously.

Kani Torun is a Justice and Development Party member of the parliament and Deputy Chair of Foreign Affairs Committee at the Turkish parliament.

The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy.
Firefighters brought under control a massive fire that broke out in a skyscraper in the United Arab Emirates, its civil defence said on Tuesday, the latest in a series of blazes in the countrys high-rise buildings.

The huge fire engulfed at least two towers of residential buildings in the UAE city of Ajman, causing panic among residents on Monday night.

Local media said that five people were treated on the spot for injuries.

Civil defence teams have brought the residential tower fire under control and they are still at the scene conducting cooling off operations, it said in a message on its Twitter account.

A video posted online by police showed burning debris falling from the building.

Everyone was running around in panic. The fire initially started off on one side of the building and slowly spread out to the building beside it, Akbar Qazi, a resident at the site, told Al Jazeera.

The fire erupted at a building in the Ajman One residential cluster of 12 towers and spread to at least one other tower.

Social media users shared images of the fire showing bright yellow flames spreading up the side of the buildings.

Traffic on roads leading to the area had come to a virtual halt, according to local media.

Skyscraper fires

Mondays fire is the latest in a series of skyscraper blazes in the Gulf country.

In December 31, 2015, just hours before New Years Eve celebrations, a massive fire engulfed a five-star hotel in Dubai.

READ MORE: Dubai probes New Years Eve hotel blaze

The huge blaze quickly shot up the 63-storey Address Hotel in the heart of the Gulf metropolis, covering nearly the entire structure and sending hundreds of people fleeing for safety.

Several people sustained injuries from the fire, and at least one person suffered a heart attack. Police have said that there were no deaths.
Court sentences 17 activists in trial the opposition says proves the existence of ingrained political repression.

An Angolan court has sentenced 17 youth activists, including a prominent rapper, to between two and eight years in jail for rebelling against the government of President Jose Eduardo dos Santos.

The sentence was handed down on Monday at the end of a lengthy trial in the capital Luanda which the Angolan opposition has said proves the existence of ingrained political repression.





The activists were arrested in June and have always denied the charges against them.

Rapper Luaty Beirao, who went on hunger strike for over a month last year to protest his detention, was given a five-and-a-half year sentence for rebellion against the president of the republic, criminal association and falsifying documents.

Another activist, Domingos da Cruz, who was identified by the judge as the leader of the group, was handed eight-and-a-half years for planning a coup and for criminal association.

The defendants were calm as the sentences were read out before being taken away to jail on the judges orders.

The activists insist they are peaceful campaigners for the departure of dos Santos, who has ruled the former Portuguese colony since 1979 and is Africas second longest-serving leader.

Michel Francisco, a lawyer representing 10 of the accused, said he would appeal.

Justice has not been done in a transparent way because things have been politicised and the judge only obeyed higher orders coming from the president of the republic, he told reporters.

Rights groups say activists in Angola, Africas second-largest oil producer and third biggest economy, are being increasingly targeted by the government of dos Santos.

READ MORE: Angolas Jose Eduardo dos Santos to quit in 2018

Amnesty International has previously said the activists should have not been arrested in the first place and described their detention as a travesty of justice.

Earlier in March, dos Santos said he would step down in 2018 but the announcement was received with scepticism after two similar pledges in the past.

His current mandate ends at the end of next year.
Authorities issue appeal for information about third suspect caught on airport CCTV as death toll rises to 35.

Belgian authorities have issued a new appeal for information about a man caught on CCTV at Brussels airport with two others who are thought to have blown themselves up in the check-in area last Tuesday.

Belgian Federal Police released on Monday a 32-second video of a mysterious man in a hat seen in the company of the airport suicide bombers, indicating that he could still be at large.

Earlier this week, Belgian media had claimed that a detained man named Faycal Cheffou was the mysterious suspect in the white jacket and dark hat.

Police at the time would not comment on those reports, but charged Cheffou on Saturday with taking part in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder.

But Cheffou was freed on Monday following a lack of evidence linking him to the carnage, Belgian prosecutors said.

IN PICTURES: Tight security and tributes after the Brussels attacks

The clues that had led to the arrest of [the person] named Faycal C were not backed up by the progression of the ongoing investigation, the federal prosecution said in a statement.

Authorities also announced that the number of victims from last weeks airport and subway suicide bombings rose to 35.

On Monday, Belgian Health Minister Maggie De Block announced on her Twitter account that four of those hospitalised after the bombings had died of their injuries.





She posted: Four patients deceased in hospital. Medical teams did all possible. Total victims: 35. Courage to all the families.

De Block reported over the weekend that 101 of those wounded in the blasts were still being treated in hospitals, including 32 in burns units.

On Sunday, investigators launched raids in Brussels and two other cities, taking four more people into custody.

The Belgian Federal Prosecutors Office provided no details of the alleged actions committed by the suspects and said the fourth person detained on Sunday was released without charge.

READ MORE: Brussels after the attacks  sorrow, unity and dignity

The bombings, the bloodiest tragedy in recent Belgian history, were claimed by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).

Several people have been arrested on terrorism charges in Belgium, France, Germany and Italy since the attacks in Brussels.
Supreme Judicial Council forces 32 judges into retirement for having opposed armys ousting of Mohamed Morsi in 2013.

Egypts Supreme Judicial Council has forced 32 judges into retirement for having opposed the armys ousting of president Mohamed Morsi in 2013, an official has said.

The decision taken on Monday was part of the authorities crackdown on all forms of dissent, including secularists and liberals, since July 2013, when then-army chief Abdel Fattah el-Sisi ousted Morsi following mass protests against his rule.

Today, the Supreme Judicial Council took a decision to force 32 judges into retirement for intervening in politics and supporting a certain party, after the ousting of Morsi, a senior official from the council told the AFP news agency on condition of anonymity.

Last week, the council took similar action against 15 other judges for the same reason.

READ MORE: Profile of Mohamed Morsi

The International Commission for Jurists (ICJ) urged Egypt to reverse the decision on the judges.

The intensity of Egypts attacks against individual judges is reaching a frightening level, said Said Benarbia, Middle East and North Africa director at the ICJ.

He said the move sends a chilling message to others who might challenge the ongoing crackdown on fundamental rights and freedoms in Egypt.

Pro-Morsi demonstrations

The council official said that some of the judges had openly declared their opposition to Morsis ousting in a signed statement at Cairos Rabaa al-Adawiya Square.

Thousands of pro-Morsi supporters had demonstrated at the square for weeks demanding his reinstatement.

On August 14, 2013, police stormed the square to disperse the sit-in.

About 700 people were killed within hours at Rabaa al-Adawiya and the capitals Nahda Square where another similar sit-in was being held.

READ MORE: Arab Spring anniversary  opposition silenced in Egypt

Hundreds more were killed in street clashes with police over several months after the August 14 carnage.

Global rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch say that at least 40,000 people were arrested within the first year of Morsis ousting on July 3, 2013.

Hundreds more have been sentenced to death or lengthy jail terms after speedy mass trials, including Morsi and several leaders of his outlawed Muslim Brotherhood movement.
Al Jazeeras Jane Arraf on the significance of the sit-in

Baghdad, Iraq  This sit-in was seemingly a simple gesture, a few small steps into the Green Zone. But it carried huge political ramifications and it speaks volumes.

Al-Sadr formerly led a militia against American and Iraqi forces; he is now a mainstream political figure.

He has threatened that his followers will storm the Green Zone if his political demands arent met.

The reason this is significant is because al-Sadr very rarely leaves Najaf, the city where he lives.

This is one of the few cases where his followers have seen him up close. People were weeping as he spoke.

He went into the Green Zone and he was kissed and greeted by senior Iraqi security officials. He sat down on the sidewalk.

That again speaks volumes. He says he is a man of the people and he is speaking for all of Iraq.

This is a way to put pressure on the Iraqi government. He says he intends to stay there until the reforms are made.

The Iraqi government, Prime Minister al-Abadi, want the reforms. He is trying to reshuffle the cabinet but there is a lot of political resistance to this.

He now has on his doorstep, almost literally, one of his leading political rivals basically waiting for him to do something.
Dani Dayan reassigned to serve as Israels consul in New York after Brazil rejected him for his pro-settlement stance.

Israel has withdrawn the nomination of Dani Dayan, a former West Bank settlement leader, as ambassador to Brazil, ending a seven-month standoff with Brasilia, which refused to accept his credentials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Monday that Dayan would instead be appointed consul-general in New York, after months of tense exchanges between Israel and the South American country.

Dozens of former Brazilian diplomats and social movements signed letters supporting the Brazilian governments decision, saying that Israels attempt to send Dayan, who himself lives in an illegal West Bank settlement, to Brazil was an affront considering the countrys position on the Israeli occupation.





Brazil also criticised Israel for the manner in which they attempted to conduct Dayans appointment  by revealing his name publicly before contacting the Brazilian government.

Netanyahu responded to Brazils protests with veiled threats of downgrading relations and not sending any ambassador to Brazil if they were to reject Dayan, Israeli media had reported.

It is unclear whether the Israeli prime minister will now consider a new option for that role.

On March 17, Israels foreign ministry had said it was seeking a new choice for ambassador in Brasilia, to replace Dayan. But it quickly withdrew the statement, saying it was issued in error.

I dont think that we folded. There was no choice, Dayan told Israels Army Radio when asked about the new appointment.

Dayan will now replace Ido Aharoni as Israels consul general in New York, in what Reuters news agency referred to as a post that focuses on Israeli outreach to American Jews and business sectors.

Dayan is one of the most vocal advocates of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. From 2007 until 2013, he served as the chairman of the Yesha Council, the umbrella organisation of municipal councils for Jewish settlements in the West Bank.

In 2013 he resigned from the council in order to endorse Benjamin Netanyahu for prime minister, who subsequently appointed Dayan as chief foreign envoy of the Yesha Council, the only official representative of the Israeli settlement movement to the international community.
The declaration by Syrias Kurds of a federal democratic system in the north has been widely condemned.

Qamishli, Syria  Hunched on a rock atop a hillside overlooking the Turkish border, a commander of the Peoples Protection Units (YPG) watched over Kurdish new year celebrations last week.

The stage below the hillside where Abdul Rahman Hamo and other YPG fighters were poised was draped with a large banner, announcing: From free Rojava towards a federal and democratic Syria.

Nodding to the festivities, Rahman said: Were celebrating the declaration of our federal system and Newroz. He smoked a cigarette from a box rationed to the dozens of fighters guarding the events against the threat of suicide and car bombings.

On March 17, four days before the Kurdish new year celebrations, the Syrian Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD) and allied political groups in northern Syria voted to declare a federal democratic system in the predominantly Kurdish region of northern Syria.

The announcement came amid increased tensions across the region. Turkeys audible shelling of Kurdish villages across the border, the increased threat of bombings amid Newroz celebrations, and clashes with Syrian regime forces in Qamishli all served as reminders of existential obstacles in the Kurdish regions path to self rule.

IN PICTURES: Syrian Kurds celebrate Newroz amid tensions

Bavi Salar, a teacher from a village outside Qamishli, told Al Jazeera that the federal system is very important for Kurds in Syria. The people demanded it.

Maybe there will not be immediate support for the declaration from the international community, but we're asking for democratic change, so, step by step, we'll get the support. They'll accept it in the future. by Shahoz Hesen, interim organising council

Salar and some local government officials in Qamishli, who are optimistic for the prospects of a federal region in Syrias north, told Al Jazeera that they nonetheless anticipated obstacles in the implementation and full functioning of the newly declared political system.

You can see the situation for the Kurds right now, Salar said, referring to rising tensions with Ankara and Damascus. We dont know what will happen next.

Shahoz Hesen, who was recently appointed to an interim organising council, acknowledged that there would be obstacles ahead.

Maybe there will not be immediate support for the declaration from the international community, but were asking for democratic change so, step by step, well get the support, Hesen told Al Jazeera. Theyll accept it in the future.

Akram Hasso, the Syrian Kurdish prime minister who hopes to secure a position within the newly designed federal system of governance, said that the authorities priorities included defining how the new federal system would function.

Aldar Khalil, a member of the executive council of the Movement for a Democratic Society who played a prominent role in the recent announcement, told Al Jazeera that the political and legal framework of the new system would be decided within six months by a 31-person organising council.

But as of today, the regions over which the parties declared a federal system are not under the full control of Kurdish forces.

It is not a condition to wait for all areas of the region to be liberated before we announce or establish the federal system, Khalil said, adding that representatives from regions still under the control of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) group had been included in pre-declaration discussions.

We managed before, Hasso said. After the announcement of self-administration last year, the representatives of the three cantons were in touch through the internet. Were able to provide material and monetary support to other administrations, though we are not connected by land. Since last year, the three cantons have been connected politically and administratively.

With the help of the international coalition, well connect Afrin, he added, referring to the westernmost canton, not yet connected to Qamishli.





The declaration of a federal system, addressed to the Syrian people and the global public, has been broadly condemned by Turkey, the United States, the Arab League and the Syrian opposition. The Syrian regime issued a stark warning to anyone who dares to undermine the unity of the land.

Even Masoud Barzani, the president of Iraqs Kurdish region, said there must be consensus on this among the Syrians themselves. When we declared federalism in the Kurdistan region, we didnt do it unilaterally.

Hasso said the Syrian Kurds military successes against ISIL and the support they have gained from the international community will translate to political support for the establishment of the federal system. Because ISIL are being pushed back, and its the goal of the international community to establish democracy in Syria, it is their duty to support Kurdish federalism, he said.

READ MORE: Why Syrias Kurds want federalism, and who opposes it

The day before the recent announcement, street battles between Syrian regime forces and Kurdish forces broke out in Qamishli. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that Kurdish forces arrested 60 members of pro-regime militias.

The Syrian regime holds strategically important positions within the city centre, including the post office and the airport on the citys outskirts. In regime-held areas, large posters of President Bashar al-Assad and Syrian flags are prominent.

Our enemy is the regime right now, said Abdulkerim Saruhan, the local defence minister, over the muffled thunder of Turkish government shelling in the nearby Turkish village of Nusaybin. He said he believed that clashes with the regime occurred because of the declaration.

Khalil said the federal administration was likely to tolerate the limited presence of regime forces to ensure the functioning of regime-run public institutions. Right now, there are regime forces controlling the airport  but our troops have encircled them, he said.

Despite obstacles, Syrian Kurdish leaders say they are resolved to pursue federalism, with or without the support of the international community. Hasso, who says that it is a dream for Kurds in Iraq, Syria, Iran and Turkey to have autonomy, noted: Whether the international community supports us or not, we are establishing the federal system within our own right.
Nine Saudis were exchanged for 109 Yemeni nationals who were detained near Saudi border, state news agency says.

A Saudi-led military coalition said it had completed a prisoner swap in Yemen, exchanging nine Saudi prisoners for 109 Yemeni nationals, Saudi state news agency SPA said.

Mondays statement did not say which group the deal was made with, but Yemens rebel Houthi movement said on Sunday it had exchanged prisoners with its foe Riyadh, as a first step towards ending a humanitarian crisis prompted by the conflict.

Saudi Arabia received its nationals on Sunday, SPA said.

It did not explain how the Saudis were held in Yemen, though it said the Yemenis held had been captured in areas of operations near the border of Saudi Arabia.

Coalition troops have been battling Houthis for more than two years now in support of Yemens internationally recognised government.

More than 6,000 people have been killed in the fighting and millions are displaced in Yemen.

Both sides have agreed to a ceasefire at midnight on April 10 before peace talks starting on April 18 in Kuwait.
Government soldiers, backed by Russian air strikes, try to extend their gains after taking back control of ancient city.

Syrian government forces, backed by Russian air strikes, battled the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group around Palmyra on Monday, after taking back control of the ancient city.

ISILs loss of Palmyra on Sunday amounts to one of the biggest setbacks for the group since it declared a caliphate in 2014 across large parts of Syria and Iraq.

The Syrian army said the city, home to some of the most extensive ruins of the Roman Empire, would become a launchpad for operations against ISIL strongholds in Raqqa and Deir Ezzor further east across a vast expanse of desert.

Syrian army recaptures city of Palmyra from ISIL

Syrian state media said on Monday that Palmyras military airport was now open to air traffic after the army cleared the surrounding area of fighters belonging to ISIL, also known as ISIS.

There were clashes northeast of Palmyra between ISIL fighters and forces allied to the government, supported by Syrian and Russian air strikes, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Air strikes, reportedly carried out by Russian jets, also targeted the road running east out of Palmyra towards Deir Ezzor, it said.

Syria troops dismantle booby traps

Although most of the ISIL force fled Palmyra on Sunday, there were still some fighters in the city, the UK-based Observatory said.

Observatory director Rami Abdulrahman said most residents fled before the government offensive and it had not heard about any civilian deaths.

Syrian state-run television broadcast from inside Palmyra, showing empty streets and badly damaged buildings.

Syrian military officials said that bomb squads were working on removing mines and bombs planted by ISIL in the city.

ISIL, during its rule of Palmyra, killed scores of people and destroyed invaluable artifacts dating back more than 1,800 years, along with a famed Roman triumphal archway.

With Russian support, Assads troops have made steady gains in recent months against ISIL and other groups it is fighting.

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the withdrawal of some fighter jets from Syria, but said that strikes against ISIL and the al-Nusra Front would continue.

Those groups have been excluded from a Russian and US-brokered ceasefire that began on February 27 and has largely held.
Members of Parliament say no one was hurt, contradicting Taliban spokesman who claimed the raid caused heavy casualties.

Taliban fighters have fired explosives at Afghanistans parliament compound in Kabul as the countrys top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior were due to speak, politicians and the Taliban said.

Members of Parliament said no one was wounded in Mondays attack in the capital.

Three rockets were fired at the parliament but they did not hit the main building, said Safiullah Muslim, a politician from Badakhshan province.

It happened when the session was ongoing.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack and said it caused heavy casualties.

There were also conflicting reports as to whether the explosions were caused by long-range rocket artillery or shoulder-fired rocket-propelled grenades.
The case against Assange is as political as it is legal; where does it go from here? Plus, Kenyas election influencers.
Though the samurai warriors of Japan have passed on to legend and folklore, their Bushido Code of Conduct continues to have an impact of Japanese society. It emphasizes eight virtues, utmost which are honor, discipline and morality. As a son of Japan, trumpeter, has personally adhered to these guiding principles, and ReNew reveals a profound sense of purpose, accented by total mastery of his instrument in service to a higher calling.Dedicated to the ongoing recovery process since the 2011 tsunami in Japan, and to the resiliency of the people of Nepal, this recording presents Ohno in tune with the contemporary direction of jazz, while acknowledging his ancestral heritage. Having worked with bassistfor over forty years, the opening track "Easy Does It," is a funk vehicle which Williams sets up, allowing Ohno to take it into the pocket. The title song "ReNew," floats with lush intonations, proposing a forgiving palette for meditation. This contemplative direction continues on "Alone, Not Alone," an echo of solidarity with the tsunami victims portrayed as a somber ballad.Sensei, translates as teacher, and "Song For Sensei," was composed by Williams as a tribute to a mentor. It displays Ohno playing in a mainstream bop mode, and why he is one of the premier trumpeters in jazz today. "Musashi," is a spoken word homage to a revered samurai, accented with a rhythmic tabla cadence by Ray Speigel. The percussive elements of the taiko (drumming) are featured on the traditional "Tairo Bushi," where modern meets ancient in a musical rendition of courage. There is an energetic determination on "First Step," highlighted by guitarist, and pianist, doing soloing honors at lightning speed. Ohno's daughter Sasha is the featured cellist on "ReNew Reprise," a pensive number revolving upon the theme of renewal and hopefulness, in all aspects of life.With an impressive discography of sixteen records as leader, extensive credentials of tenures with such luminaries as, and, and overcoming serious injuries and health issues, Shunzo Ohno certainly qualifies as a present day samurai. He embodies the Bushido Code, and his music is a reflection of this, he plays jazz as a way of life, with all its challenges and triumphs, he is never defeated.
Kelly OBrien spent two months practicing her American Sign Language for a performance held Saturday.

OBrien, a student from the University of South Florida who signed Here by Alessia Cara, was one of 11 students from four Florida colleges who competed at UFs Signing Gators second annual Intercollegiate American Sign Language Idol.

Students from the University of North Florida, Santa Fe Community College, USF and UF interpreted songs to sign. Songs performed in ASL needed to be translated by the meaning of the song, not the words.

The event, held at the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, was supposed to be live-streamed on YouTube for the first time but wasnt due to a last-minute technical difficulty, said Lexi Cunio, the president of Signing Gators.

It took a year to plan and drew about 150 people, said Christopher Gonzalez, 22, the treasurer of Signing Gators. The $1,300 event was funded by Student Government.

Andrew Reyes, a student from USF who performed Alive by Sia, said his family and friends were disappointed when they could not watch him win first place.

I had 40 messages from people who were going to watch it, he said. I just wish someone at the event had told us it didnt work so we could tell everyone back home.

Cunio, 21, said there was an issue with the cord that connected the camera and the computer. The videos are being edited as of press time and will be uploaded to YouTube.

Performances were evaluated by three judges: two deaf, Michael Stutlz and Constance Hardy, and one hearing, Patricia Wooten. The judges used a scoring sheet for each contestant to keep track of his or her performance, said Lani Crosby, the master of ceremonies.

The contestants were judged on six components of their performances: structure, posture, skill, facial expressions, development of signs, and creativity, she said to the audience.

Reyes won first, David Phillips of UNF won second place and OBrien won third. All three received trophies for their performances.

OBrien said knowing ASL is like knowing a secret code. She said more people should learn it.

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The people who use the language are just as beautiful as the language itself, she said.
UF business students will extinguish fires as they become firefighters for a day on Saturday.

The day is part of a leadership program the Warrington College of Business and the Warrington Diplomats host each semester, said Kara Conley, the president of the Warrington Diplomats. This is the first time students will be firefighters for the program.

Students will learn to fight fires at Florida State Fire College in Ocala, Florida, the UF accounting senior said. This will teach them how to handle stress.

Its important for students to learn all of those soft skills that you just cant get out of a classroom, the 22-year-old said.

The ventures are hosted by Warrington Diplomats, she said. About 30 students can go for $20 each. The trip is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes transportation and lunch. Students in the past have cooked like an Iron Chef, sailed in St. Augustine and baked like a Cake Boss. Forrest Hoffman, a UF finance junior and Warrington Diplomat, said going on these trips teaches students teamwork.

They show you how to work with people that youve never really met, the 21-year-old said.

Conley said the Warrington Diplomats wanted to do something new this semester. She got to go to Florida State Fire College about two months ago to experience what students will do this weekend: using a fire hose, going down a fire pole and extinguishing flames.

I was way too excited, but it gave me the opportunity to better communicate whats going to happen, she said. It was interesting to be at the facilities and just see the culture.
This month marks the sixth anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Since its passage in 2010, more than 20 million people have signed up for affordable health care through healthcare.gov.

My father, my mother, my two sisters and I were among the millions to finally have access to quality health care. Before the ACA, my parents couldnt afford health care, and my sisters and I had coverage through the government-sponsored Medicare program for children. My parents are some of the hardest-working people I know: My dad owns a small business, and my mom has worked multiple jobs at a time and raised my two sisters and me as a stay-at-home mom.

Unfortunately, in America, my parents werent unique. It is astonishing that in the most advanced economy in the world, millions of working- and middle-class families like mine feared losing it all if someone got sick.

And while the ACA has helped millions of Americans, many Republicans in Congress and in our state government are trying to dismantle it.

In the years following the ACAs passage, Floridas Republican-led House of Representatives refused to accept billions of dollars in federal funds that would have expanded Medicaid for hundreds of thousands of Floridians.

And even though the federal government would pay for 90 percent of the cost of Medicaid expansion, Gov. Rick Scott, who recently endorsed Donald Trump for president, said the state couldnt afford it  while simultaneously considering more than $1 billion in tax cuts to benefit big businesses.

Republicans have also directed the Florida Department of Health to bar federal health counselors from over 60 county health agencies. These counselors, known as navigators, help people enroll in insurance plans and get subsidies under Obamacare.

Without proposing a suitable replacement, Republicans in the U.S. House have tried and failed to repeal the Affordable Care Act more than 60 times.

Young people disproportionately benefit from the Affordable Care Act. Most students in their early 20s work low-income, temporary jobs, which rarely offer health insurance. Thanks to the ACA, students can stay on their parents insurance plans until they are 26.

Because of this, more than 5 million young adults have gained health coverage that allows free preventive services that keep us healthy, like HIV and cancer screenings, contraceptive counseling and birth control.

For the first time in our countrys history, more than 90 percent of Americans have health coverage.

I bet you know someone in your personal life who has benefited from the Affordable Care Act: a sibling who had a pre-existing condition like asthma or diabetes who can no longer be denied coverage, your mother who made too much for Medicaid but too little for private insurance, a friend who was charged more for her health care because she was a woman.

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Call your legislators and tell them you support expanded funding for the Affordable Care Act in our state.

Jesse Fallen is a UF economics senior. He is also the president of UF College Democrats.
A French girl studying to become a translator told me, Its easier to do some things in a foreign language, and its harder to do other things. Its harder to be intimate, and its easier to get men. In German and English, she didnt have a pre-constructed barrier against men; she was less inhibited because she didnt have the habit of inhibition. Ive always had to break up in English, I told her, but I sure do get pretty when I stop speaking it. We laughed and clinked our beers.

A co-worker once told me, In Spanish I could be the person I wanted to be. I told her I was in French. She was moving to Barcelona in the fall to fake-marry her boyfriend from study abroad so she could have European residency. She said fake marriage was fun.

You need photo albums to show the feds, so you throw parties all the time: fake cake, fake party favors, fake pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey. Shed visited Barcelona once since her year abroad, and it hadnt been as magical. That was over, and she knew it was.

To be yourself is a rare feeling, like a confluence of wind and water. And language.

In Robert Ropers recent Nabokov in America, he recounts the authors first years at Harvard: Meanwhile, he was half out of the living sea of his Russian, half into the dimensionless American air. He echoes Isaiah Berlin, who felt shipwrecked in England: I feel a curious transformation of personality when I speak (Russian)  as if everything becomes easier to express, & the world brighter and more charming.

My grandparents spoke Yiddish and then Russian, my father spoke Russian and then English and I speak English and then French and Spanish. And here in France, I too feel like unchecked cargo: unstuck, unreal.

If I cant be vulgar in French, am I still vulgar? If I cant be mean, what am I?

Yet I love the gnomic, half-mystical way foreigners speak, incapable of subtlety. They dont like, they love.

What does it mean to switch languages? A German professor once told me it would be easier for me to learn German and then read Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel than to read him in English. He said German was analytical; the French say French is analytical.

And what of us who leave our language? In Paris, in a chokehold of loneliness, I wrote. It had never come like this, and maybe never will again, fine and measured in a language that wasnt my own.

Translated to English, my tone sounds barebones, blinding: Narcissism becomes necrosis: You smile when I ask if being a good person means I will have a good life. It is raining. We are in the metro. You have decided we wont get dinner. English is the cold comfort of lost empire.

In her recent foray into Italian, In Other Words, Jhumpa Lahiri writes, What does it mean to give up a palace to live practically on the street, in a shelter so fragile? For Samuel Beckett, French let him write without style. For Eugene Ionesco, writing a pronunciation manual of French for the American student taught him the theater of the absurd: Once he chose words for their phonemes, he could write without meaning.

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This poverty is luxury. I struggle so hard to speak in French that the world doesnt matter: Theres just me and silence, or else me and words. I always used to tell men, You dont know me. It seems like thats all I ever said, just like it seems all I ever overhear French people say is, He does things a lot, and theyve got things there, whatever. I mean. And unroped from English, stranded at sea, its true: In Spanish or French, the truth drowns in silence, and the real mes all my own. Its harder to be myself in French, but its easier to be myself in France. No one can really tell me otherwise.

Ann Manov is a UF French, English and Spanish senior. Her column appears on Mondays.
Free birds, Bernie supporters and Portland, Oregon: The only thing possibly more hippie-liberal is Bob Marley delivering a Hendrix-signed guitar to Che Guevara while driving a quinoa-and-kale-fueled smart car littered with Imagine and co-exist paraphernalia. Clearly the latter only resides in the daydreams of those who take bathroom breaks during work at precisely 4:20 p.m. However, the former actually took place on Friday: A cute, little bird landed on Bernies stage and then flew atop his podium during his rally speech. Some view the appearance of this bird as a sign of providence, of Bernies pure-hearted candidacy, Mother Natures Princess Leia appealing to Bernie to say, Help me Bernie-Wan Kenobi. Youre my only hope: not us at the Alligator.

No, we dont take our cues from the lamestream liberal media. While Bernie may have referred to the birdie as a dove asking for world peace, we take our role as journalists seriously by following the evidence and exploring the validity in every possible angle, casting our presumptions aside. Every other news outlets coverage of this spectacle is framed in awe and positivity. We, on the other hand, question whether this appearance is actually a bad omen for the country, and possibly humanity  an affront by bird-kind against mankind.

If you examine the empirical evidence put forth by bird lore and mythology, youll find a number of revelations that should very well cause us all to re-examine what transpired Friday. For example, a bird flying into your house is commonly associated with an imminent death in the family. Figuratively speaking, Bernies rallies serve as an intellectual, political home for his supporters, which then begs the question: Who in the Bernie family has this bird targeted? And given the size of Bernies political family and the turnout rate at his rallies, the bird may have in fact targeted a large group of innocent civilians, not just a single individual. Or perhaps this is a sign of the biblical end of days  birds being swept away from the air and descending upon the earth. Ask your neighborhood animal sciences major: This is all true.

Now some of you might think this train of thought makes absolutely no sense and is clearly a form of the logical fallacy post hoc, ergo propter hoc (because of this, therefore this). Maybe it is. But who needs such training in logic or reasoning when we have the Internet to protect us from falsehoods and inaccurate banter? Anyway, we digress.

The point is, heed this Birdie Sanders phenomenon with serious caution. First a bald eagle nearly attacked Trump at his desk back in August during a photoshoot; now we have a bird confronting Bernie face to face: Theyre going after our leaders. Not only that, but bird migration patterns have shifted over the years to where many birds are now venturing into new territories. Scientists tell us this is because of climate change, but we dont know what those scientists are hiding. We may very well be witnessing an uprising from the bird community like no other.

For too long weve grown complacent with birds and their cuteness. We must be vigilant in this brazen threat to our national security, which is why wed recommend a temporary ban on all birds from entering the country until weve figured out just exactly whats going on. Its time we reclaim our skies from those winged, uncultured beasts.
Probiotic cold brew isn't the only route to staying sane, healthy, and productive when things get crazy at the office. Perhaps no one knows this better than Sophie Keller, cofounder and "chief happiness officer"for realof Los Angeles's Village Workspaces. When the brand's second coworking space opened in West L.A. last month, Keller and her crew made employee wellness a top priority, bringing in an organic and gluten-free vending machine, desk-side Juice Served Here delivery, and in-house yoga, fitness, and meditation classes, among other things. (Um, when can I move in?)

All of these healthy perks aren't just an attempt to chase trends, says the positive psychology expert: "[Employee] happiness and well-being are the greatest economic advantages a company can have...so when we make our members happier, we're hopefully influencing their bottom line."

What if your workplace doesn't have free massages and an open bar? According to Keller, there are loads of little rituals we can adopt on an individual level to boost job satisfaction. "It's easy to let the day control you, instead of you controlling the day," she says, adding that having a happiness practice is a major source of empowerment and, in turn, on-the-clock contentment. Here, Keller fills us in on four of her favorite rites that make the 9-to-5 a little more blissful. What you put in your coffee cup, however, is still totally your call.

Make your to-do list more mindful.

If your out-of-control workload sends you into panic mode, Keller suggests approaching it with intention. "When you get to work, take two minutes to get in the zone and manifest calmness," she says. "Then write a list of goals you want to accomplish that day."

Now, here's the kicker: After numbering your goals in order of importance, Keller suggests putting a star next to all the tasks you can accomplish in two minutes or less and tackling those first. "You can get five tasks done in ten minutes," she says. "I can't tell you how satisfying it is to get on a roll quickly!"

Get moving.

By now, you probably know why it pays to have a standing desk: Keller says it helps you burn calories, rev circulation, and boost productivity, all of which ultimately leads you to feel happier. "I do at least two to three hours standing each day, and to help me stay focused, I pick projects that I know will take that much time to complete," she says.

If that's not an option, Keller suggests breaking up your day with a walk or a short bout of exercise for a natural energy boostand some mood-enhancing sunshine.

To find out what else you should do to make your workday better, head over to Well + Good.

More from Well + Good:

Career Advice You Can Sip From the Cup

How One Woman Created the Coolest Job Ever

5 Steps to Finally Meeting Your Goals and Getting What You Want

How to Learn to Love Your Job
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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]
Previous Programs

Programs include a wide variety of events, including lectures, book talks, theatrical and musical presentations, and film showings. Watch many of these programs by selecting from the list below.

Annette Gordon-Reed, David W. Blight, and Peter S. Onuf; a manuscript used during Rethinking the Tablescape; Black Girlhood by Nazera Wright; Moses Goods in My Name is Opukahaia; Jim Moran and Jill Lepore




Banks are starting to show interest in the idea of a universal federated digital identity. Already in Canada and the United Kingdom, banks have struck partnerships with government entities so consumers can have a single login for banking and government services. Stateside, BBVA Compass is one of the financial institutions dabbling in this area.

One notable BBVA initiative lets customers send and receive money through the payments service Dwolla. What makes the arrangement unusual is that the customers use their same BBVA username and password to sign on at Dwolla. This information functions as a digital identity of sorts, allowing Dwolla to recognize who they are without having direct access to any of their personal information.

What follows is an edited excerpt from our interview about the future of digital identity with Chad Ballard, BBVA's director of mobility and new digital business technologies.

Is this vision of a universal federated digital identity something we might see relatively soon, or is it more future state?

CHAD BALLARD: Well, there are certainly a lot of different parties thinking about this, but we haven't yet seen a ubiquitous solution out there today. Creating one single common solution is challenging because we have a very large and complex financial environment.

The other issue would be educating consumers. Fraud and privacy concerns are top of mind for consumers. They may initially be uneasy with having a digital identity that is centrally stored and managed. If it's something that is certificate or token-based, it may be more difficult for the average user to grasp or understand.

Should banks be the entity to manage this centralized identity?

I think banks are already considered to be trusted, secure holders of information, so it would make sense. Outside of perhaps a government agency, consumers are used to banks playing that role of secure, trusted adviser.

Are you experimenting with the concept of digital identity now?

We have been working on a model like this in a partnership with Dwolla. Our customers can send and receive real-time payments [using Dwolla]. Our customers can log in to Dwolla using their bank credentials, so they don't have to give sensitive account information or credentials to a third party. We do not share our customer information with Dwolla.

Was educating customers a challenge?

It's an easy thing to get customers to use, because all we're asking them to do is authenticate with their bank. It's something they do every day. We're not asking them to do anything nonstandard or create a separate identity that they are not used to. So for us, this idea is not a future consideration; we're working on it now.

What role might the blockchain play in this new world of digital identity?

The blockchain offers many interesting opportunities, and there are a lot potential use cases when it comes to authentication. You hear about some companies already using it to certify authenticity in markets where fraud is prevalent, such as diamonds and fine art. It's possible the blockchain could end up being the single, secure token element to certify the authenticity of everything. And obviously identity could be a part of that.


It's been more than 20 years since the first e-commerce site appeared, yet today we still use the same username, password and security question combinations to log in online.

Human resources departments are still filled with paper files of photocopied passports and Social Security cards. And, just like more than half a century ago, someone going to a bar still has to show a stranger a driver's license full of personally identifiable information (name, address, date of birth) to prove he's old enough to drink.

In many ways, managing identities in this digital age is antiquated. At best, it's inefficient, as consumers and businesses constantly re-enter the same information to access any number of services. At worst, it's dangerous, as the many high-profile data breaches of the past several years show.

Bank technology How BBVA Is Tackling Digital Identity Though the use of a digital identity may take years to go mainstream with consumers, BBVA Compass is thinking about the role that banks should play and taking steps toward being part of the solution. March 27

Bank technology Four Visions of the Future of Identity The way we verify people are who they say they are must evolve to reflect new technologies like peer-to-peer platforms and the Internet of Things and the ways millennials live and work. March 27

Bank technology The Case for Knowledge-Based Authentication Asking for static information like a mother's maiden name seems increasingly passe, since shared "secrets" can be stolen or gleaned from the Internet. But without a brilliant alternative, and done with care, knowledge-based authentication still has value. March 24

What if that same customer didn't need to show the bartender a document containing his home address, but instead took out a mobile phone and displayed a one-time numerical or QR code? When scanned, this code, known as a cryptographic token, would confirm that the person is over the legal drinking age, perhaps flashing a photo of the person on the bartender's device.

What if a consumer could log on to any website not by giving a username and password or by answering personal questions, but by granting that site limited access to some data? This data could be stored in a personal cloud or with a trusted provider that securely holds the consumer's digital identity.

This vision may seem very far off, but many different parties are working  often together  to solve the tricky problem of identity in a digital world. Some of them are even banks.

"There's a lot more happening in this space than most people realize," said Gary McAlum, chief security officer at USAA in San Antonio. "The world of user IDs, passwords and security answers is a failed model. It's not a matter of if, but when, that changes."

For banks, a single, federated digital identity would bring several benefits. It would be much easier for banks to know who they were dealing with if they could get quick access to a token or digital certificate that established the person's identity. As it stands, regulators are increasingly requiring banks to do greater due diligence on their customers in an effort to screen for money laundering. The pressures of keeping up with these high expectations means increased cost to banks, both in terms of money spent and internal resources dedicated to this task.

Another benefit would be greater security. If personal information weren't passed around like a casserole plate, criminals would have fewer opportunities to hack into customers' accounts. Banks spend time and money investigating fraud cases, and usually reimburse customers who have been victimized.

USAA is one of several financial institutions worldwide exploring the concept of digital identity. It is partnering with a government agency on a project that would involve allowing USAA's 10.7 million members (mostly military personnel and their families) to authenticate themselves using the same username and password as for online banking. The $70 billion-asset company said it could not give the agency's name.

In Canada, a broader effort is underway with the SecureKey initiative launched in 2012. In this model, banks manage their customers' digital identities for government websites. Tangerine Bank, Bank of Montreal, TD Bank and Scotiabank are all part of the program. The U.K. government also launched an identity verification platform last year with Barclays as one of the partners.

These are just small steps toward the universal federated identity model that technologists and privacy advocates pine for. But executives at several banks said that such a model is going to be the norm eventually and that banks are well positioned to serve as the trusted digital identity provider.

That's because people generally trust banks to keep their private information secure.

"This has to be a mutual-trust model for it to work," McAlum said. "The consumer has to trust the institution that is managing the digital identity."

Chad Ballard, director of mobility and new digital business technologies at BBVA Compass, agreed.

"There's not really a ubiquitous solution out there today" on managing digital identity, he said. "To get there, you'd have to address consumers' concerns about fraud and security. Outside of perhaps a government agency, consumers are used to banks playing that role of secure, trusted adviser."

Like USAA, BBVA Compass in Birmingham, Ala., has been trying out some new tactics in this area. Last year the U.S. unit of the Spanish banking giant BBVA began offering a service with the startup Dwolla that allows bank customers to send and receive real-time payments. The partnership uses a jointly developed authentication and tokenization process called FiSync that spares BBVA account holders from having to provide sensitive bank account information or credentials to Dwolla or any other party.

The learning curve is short.

"It's an easy thing to get customers to use, because all we're asking them to do is authenticate with their bank," Ballard said. "It's something they do every day; we're not asking them to do anything nonstandard or create a separate identity that they are not used to."

Ballard said the way BBVA's initiative with Dwolla works is a significant departure from how other payments platforms like Apple Pay, Stripe or PayPal operate. Although users of those services do not need to hand their payment credentials to every random merchant they buy from  an improvement on the traditional credit card model  they still have to share the data with the payment provider. FiSync removes that step. Only BBVA needs to be entrusted with the sensitive data.

The approach looks especially prudent in light of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's March order against Dwolla for misrepresenting its data security practices from 2010 through 2014. BBVA, which partnered with Dwolla after the period covered by the order, said it considers the startup's security practices "sound." But even if they weren't, BBVA customers who use FiSync wouldn't need to trust Dwolla to keep their data safe anyway.

Dave Birch, a London-based financial technology consultant and the author of the 2014 book "Identity Is the New Money," agrees that this is a natural line of business for banks to enter.

"Identity is so central to the future online world, and I want my identity managed by a regulated institution," he said. "If they lose my identity or give it away, then I expect them to do something about it. I would rather have a bank manage my identity than Facebook."

But the day when consumers have a universal digital identity is still far off, Birch said. And that's only partly because of the technological and practical considerations of which party will manage it; the biggest hurdle is the mindset of the general population.

"The complex issue to overcome is the social aspect of this. People have got a very rooted notion of identity and translating that into the digital space will be difficult," Birch said. "We'll have to construct a more digital notion of identity, where different attributes are used in different circumstances." Some websites might need to know your age but not your location, some vice versa, some neither.

This also would require people to think differently about what a bank is, shifting from "a place where you store your money to a place where you store your identity," Birch said.

Moreover, the notion of having all one's data stored in one place, no matter how well guarded or partitioned, may well spook some consumers who are already leery after a string of headlines about data breaches and government snooping.

And rightly so, said Francoise Gilbert, an attorney at Greenberg Traurig who specializes in data privacy and security. A digital identity is vulnerable to such problems as hacking, social engineering, and even basic errors, regardless of where that identity might be stored, she said. "I love the digital world, but errors happen just as frequently as in the paper world, and because they touch databases, the errors can be multiplied by 10,000 or 10 million."

WHO OWNS THE DATA?

And not everyone believes banks  or any third party for that matter  should be in the business of managing a consumer's digital identity. It should be the consumers themselves, argues James Varga, chief executive of miiCard, a startup in Edinburgh, Scotland.

"It has to start with the consumer; you own and manage the controls, and you take it with you wherever you go," Varga said. "And you can revoke access to that information as well."

MiiCard acts as a "digital passport" of sorts, wherein consumers apply online and miiCard verifies their identity and their assets, and issues them a miiCard with a unique number. They can then use it to log on to participating websites, which include marketplace lending platforms, digital currency exchanges and e-commerce sites. (A similar model is used by OneLogin, based in San Francisco.)

Varga said he came up with the idea in 2011 after reflecting on the "faulty" identity-management systems online that require people to share more information than is necessary just to prove who they are.

Even Varga agrees that using banks is an ideal way to authenticate identity, which is why miiCard does so by accessing data from the user's bank, using their online banking credentials. Moreover, miiCard regularly checks the user's connection to the bank account and makes sure that there is activity on the account to ensure the identity can be relied upon. If a user changes banks, or even changes the information used to access the bank account, the miiCard becomes invalid, and the user needs to reconnect using a new account or update the login credentials.

But, as useful as banks might be for validating someone's identity, Varga sees potential problems with having a bank as the owner of that identity. For one thing, there is no guarantee of cooperation between banks. So, would a consumer who has a digital identity stored with a bank be able to use it to get a mortgage from a different institution? Or as Varga put it, "Would I be able to log in to Bank of America with a Chase identity?"

This is why Varga believes a consumer-owned identity, which can travel anywhere, is better.

"When I go into a pub, I shouldn't have to show a driver's license. They don't need to see all that information," Varga said. "You should be able to walk into a pub, show them just the information they need, and then if you wish walk across the street into a mortgage office and give them whatever information they need."

John Light, a cryptocurrency consultant, shares Varga's belief that individuals should own their digital identity.

"The entity that data represents should own the data in question, unless they explicitly relinquish ownership to a third party when given a real choice to do so," Light said. "Most private data should be visible and accessible only to its owner, and where that data is hosted is largely irrelevant" if the data is encrypted from end to end (meaning whether it is in storage or in transit).

That's why he sees no special advantage for financial institutions as identity keepers. "Banks could certainly get into the cloud storage business if they want to," Light said. "The question is whether that's a logical move for them or not."

Varga said a new way of managing a digital identity will emerge soon, in part because having dozens of different logins is "impractical," but also because so many parties are working on this issue.

"It's the missing piece of the puzzle since the dawn of time in the world of the Internet," he said.

Even if banks don't hold the consumer's digital identity, a model where consumers have a verifiable digital identity is still valuable because it would be a big help to financial institutions for compliance and security functions, said Andrew Sloper, product lead in JPMorgan Chase's digital department.

"To be able to have a greater degree of digital assurance is extremely valuable," he said. "It would enable us to better meet clients' individual needs, benefit with things like compliance, and make applying for new products and services easier."

THE NEED FOR STANDARDS

Regardless of who ultimately manages the digital identity, most agree it has to be a collaborative process.

"There would have to be universal standards and protocols," said USAA's McAlum. "We could create a digital identity here for our customers, but if they can't use it anywhere else, it's not very useful."

Achieving that goal would take cooperation among financial institutions, governments, technology startups and other parties, said Nick Williamson, co-founder of Credits.Vision, a technology startup based in London. And he believes this cooperation is starting to jell.

"We're working with a lot of different large organizations that are getting on board with this project," Williamson said.

Williamson's firm is one of several tech companies that are adapting the blockchain  the distributed-ledger technology behind the digital currency bitcoin  to solve the problems of mainstream financial institutions. Put simply, a blockchain allows entities that are independent of one another to rely on the same shared, secure, auditable source of information. In bitcoin, the information being shared is digital currency balances  but the potential applications go well beyond that.

"It's possible the blockchain could end up being the single, secure token element to certify the authenticity of everything," said BBVA's Ballard.

Credits.Vision is working on creating a blockchain that would connect other blockchains, both private ones being tested by banks and public ones like bitcoin's. One function of this chain-of-chains would be as a "golden record for identity." A person could upload their personal details (in encrypted form) once, whether with a bank, passport office, or telecom provider and the identity could then be used in any other context.

The company bills this as a solution to long-standing challenge for banks: know-your-customer compliance. The process of vetting customers' identities has long been unwieldy for banks, and many industry players have been trying to solve the problem of authenticating customer information.

"For many organizations, and especially banks, identity is such a big pain point," Williamson said. "So much of their operational costs go to combatting identity fraud." But the authentication process might not be so painful with a fraudproof set of identities available on a super-blockchain like the one proposed by Credits.

Aside from standards and interoperability, some believe that the change most needed to drive mainstream adoption is government policy.

"Governments and regulators will have to become just as comfortable accepting a cryptographic signature as proof of identity as they seemingly are with using personal trivia, JPEGs that look like ID documents, and nine-digit numbers as proofs of identity," said Light, the bitcoin consultant. "We'll probably see cryptographic identity technology take off first in areas that don't require permission from regulators. These are areas where proof of identity is important but the requester of proof has more flexibility in what kinds of proofs they are willing and able to accept."

Light said replacing passwords with a single login is probably the easiest to achieve, before moving on to areas like academic credentialing, marketplaces and possibly person-to-person lending  all areas where identity and reputation are important, but are largely unregulated in how identity is handled.

"Highly regulated activities like banking will probably be the last to adopt this kind of tech as a wholesale replacement for legacy identity verification methods," he said.

But BBVA, at least, is encouraged by the response so far to its digital identity pilot project.

"Customers are reacting positively," Ballard said, without providing any figures. "The solution has made us think more broadly" about similar opportunities.

Digital identity as a service "isn't just a future consideration for us. It's something we're working on now," Ballard said.


SAN FRANCISCO  Among central bankers, few can match John C. Williams' insight into the tech sector.

As president of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Williams is at the epicenter of the tech industry's foray into financial products, with marketplace lenders like SoFi and Lending Club headquartered nearby.

Williams shares many of the banking industry's concerns about fintech. While he sees promise in alternative lending products, he also sees perils, including the potential to leave low- and middle-income borrowers behind or make it easier to engage in predatory lending.

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Law and regulation Ten Questions for Richmond Fed Chief Jeffrey Lacker Richmond Fed President Jeffrey Lacker discusses why he distrusts a government-run system for unwinding banks, how community banks could thrive in the future, and why policymakers should consider better distinguishing between the biggest institutions and mid-size firms. November 26

"I do worry that some of these online financial products allow you to do predatory lending or other scams at massive scale," he said.

In a sit-down interview with American Banker at his office here, Williams spoke about fintech's impact on the banking industry, as well as calls to break up the biggest institutions, banks' culture and stability since the financial crisis and the possibilities for another recession.

Following is an edited transcript of the interview.

Banks are very concerned about competition from marketplace lenders. Should they be? Do those lenders need more regulatory oversight?

JOHN C. WILLIAMS: I think that everybody should be concerned, if you're in a business, about competitors  that's good, it's healthy. Capitalism is all about competition and innovation, and let the better product, let the better service win out. I think a lot of bankers may have gotten used to a higher [return on equity] and a stable business model and some threats from disruptive or other competition is I think a good motivator to do what you do even better.

I think what we want to make sure is that it's a level playing field, though  that community banks and other bankers, if they're facing competition from fintech or shadow banking, that the same rules apply across [business models], based on what the activities are.

A lot of our regulation is based on real problems that needed to be addressed through regulatory or legal ways. I'm thinking of things like redlining way back, or underprivileged communities not getting credit  that was a problem in our society and there were laws written to try and better address that.

I worry about that with fintech, to make sure that, if we're going to bring technology in  whether online lenders or crowdfunding or things like that  that we remember the lessons from the past and demand of them that they extend credit to all parts of our community and not create a ZIP code-based lending algorithms, where if you live in Atherton [median income $250,000-plus] you get a loan, but if you live in East Palo Alto [median income $56,713] you don't. That kind of thing really does bother me, not because people are bad but because they maybe haven't thought about it. We should have expectations as a society that our financial system is serving all people and not leaving people out.

The second [concern] is consumer compliance. I do worry that some of these online financial products allows you to do predatory lending or other scams at massive scale. I'm not anti-tech, but I want to make sure that consumers are appropriately protected in the same way that we expect that consumers are protected when they deal with banks or other lenders.

The last is that, a lot of fintech tends to need to do what everybody needs to do. If you want to lend money, if you want to have liquidity, you grow very strong connections with banks. That's good. But as fintech companies become more and more enmeshed with the banking system, with that comes safety and soundness [compliance], AML, BSA, all that. The thing I think we need to message to the fintech world is that there are reasons we have these laws. These aren't just because regulators are mean, grumpy people that like to tell people, "No." There are social issues, social problems, that needed to be dealt with and those same laws and issues are going to apply in fintech.

What do you make of the campaign rhetoric around Wall Street and breaking up the biggest banks?

I won't talk about politics here, but when I think about banking regulation, it's really important to look at what were the real causes of the crisis and what caused the government and the Fed to have to take the dramatic actions that we did to try to forestall a much worse economic downturn.

My view is, the steps that have been taken, both on the part of the regulators but also from changes in the law  the stress tests, other changes  were badly needed. I think they will make a more resilient financial system and a more resilient banking system. There are still some steps with resolution of SIFIs and all that, but to my mind this is the right way to approach this.

It's a balanced approach  it recognizes that we want a financial system that provides credit to the economy, it helps small businesses grow, it keeps our economy strong, but at the same time it's not a financial system that takes on excessive risks.

What we saw after the fact was that [firms] didn't even understand the risks they were taking. One of the biggest shocks to me was how much we learned about the inadequacy of operational issues at a lot of banks  that they didn't understand the risks, they didn't have good [management information systems] to manage the information that they had. A lot of banks had just underinvested for years in that back-office, backroom stuff that really helps you to control risk, to understand what's happening. That was true at smaller banks up to the biggest banks in the world.

In the end, I think those are the tools that will help us have a resilient, effective, successful financial and banking system. I'm old enough to remember when we broke up AT&T, and they reformed into huge phone companies again. Some of these answers that sound good, like "Break up the banks," don't really tackle the important issues.

Do you think bank culture has changed since the crisis?

When I talk to community bankers who survived the crisis, bank culture has not changed. Community bankers, regional bankers, bankers who have been in the business a long time, they are the ones who survived. They're the ones who didn't make all the bad decisions. So that hasn't changed.

Where I worry about bank culture is when there is more of a culture of traders and investment bank culture, which I think in commercial banking adds a lot more risk to that kind of enterprise. What worries me the most is all these anti-money-laundering and [Bank Secrecy Act] failures at the biggest banks in the world. They pay huge fees, they clearly have not had adequate control over this, and when you read the stories, it sounds like [the bankers think], "Well, this sounds like a profitable business, so let's not ask questions." That's what worries me, is the kind of culture that doesn't worry as much about reputation, about the long-term health of the organization.

I think the events of the last eight years have taught a lot of leaders in banks that reputation, which has always been highly valuable, is something that you can lose quickly when you find out that people are doing things that aren't consistent with your vision and your mission. That leads to a lot of public recognition of that, and obviously huge fines. Hopefully the lesson learned is to recognize that the long-run health and reputation actually matters a lot more than short-term gains. That's still a question mark, though, how much that has stuck.

How would you rate the banking sector's resilience in the context of greater-than-expected losses in the energy sector?

There are two stories there, and they're both important ones. For the vast majority of banks  and especially the biggest banks  the resilience, the level of capital, liquidity, everything about the institutions, both quantitatively in terms of capital, but also the risk management  all those things are in much better shape than they were. So I think we've learned lessons from the crisis, I think the banking system is much better prepared for whatever the next thing is. The oil crisis was one little mini case of that  can you take those losses when a bunch of loans you made to an industry are going sour? So I actually feel this is a nice little test case of this better resilience of our banking system.

The second story is, we have a lot of banks in our district who were downgraded in terms of our assessment of their safety and soundness [after the crisis]. A lot of banks in our district ended up closing, whether being merged or going through a resolution. And one of the things you still see is, of the banks who were hit hardest  and I'm thinking of community banks  they are still struggling to get back to full strength. So there are definitely still parts of our district and this country where the community bank sector is still damaged enough from the housing crash that they're still not providing the credit to local businesses, local community in the way that we need.

One of the things that's still holding back our economy is the lending from community banks  throughout the country but especially in areas that were hard-hit. Those areas where community banks went under or are just trying to stay alive are areas of the economy that are not getting credit that easily. It's not easy for other banks to step in and immediately start providing the credit that the local banks were doing. It's not a big headline, it's not about the biggest banks, it's not about financial stability, but it is about the long-term damage that came out of the financial crisis and the effects it had on a lot of banks.

Economic reports suggest there are wide variations in types of lending activity from region to region. How do you make sense of that, and does it matter?

Your observation is dead on. I see that. These markets can be very idiosyncratic  the [San Francisco] Bay Area is driven by what could be broadly called "tech," but the whole innovative sector that's going on is driving commercial real estate prices, construction rents through the roof. And one of the things you have to do is stop breathing this air, go out in the rest of the country and other parts of my district where  prices are still depressed and there are other parts of the country where it's this mixed bag.

One of the things that's very healthy is I meet with my colleagues from the different Federal Reserve Banks at the [Federal Open Market Committee] and I might say, "Commercial real estate is really hot in San Francisco, L.A., Seattle for these reasons," and then one of my colleagues will say, "That's really interesting to see, because we're seeing the exact opposite." So we just organically will often have this comparison on what is really a national trend versus what is unique to a specific market.

One of our economists here [Robert Valletta] has done some careful studies over the years about  the dispersion index of economic activity across sectors, across regions: Has that changed over time? Is it unusual or a problem? He showed that there's always this [effect]. We have a very dynamic economy. We have an economy that typically has regions that are booming and sectors that are booming and others that are stagnating or even shrinking. That's kind of normal for the U.S. economy. And if you look at a standard dispersion measure, that doesn't have any obvious upward trend or downward trend. My guess, not having seen any recent analysis on this, is that the same thing would be true.

How important is the next interest rate hike, relative to everything else happening in the global economy? Do we in the media make too much of it?

As a group, when I read a lot of the business section in newspapers, it's mostly about businesses  what is Apple doing, or what is Samsung doing, or whoever. I think the vast majority of reporters put the Fed right where it should be, that is, not the most important story for the U.S. economy. But if you're going to a press conference and asking about the Fed, it's not surprising to me that the focus should be on the policy decisions and the thinking around those.

I think if I had my [way]  and I don't speak for my colleagues, but I think many would agree with this  if we could have the conversation be less about the individual meetings and more about the path for policy over the next few years, I think that would be much more constructive. One of the advantages of the dot plots is that it allows us to talk not about individual tactical decisions at meetings, but really talk about where we see policy over the next few years. That's what's going to affect bond rates. That's what's going to affect financial conditions. If we were going to move in meeting X or meeting Y, it has virtually no effect  if it's the same total move  on the economy. What does matter is if interest rates two years from now are going to be higher than they are today, and how much higher.

How well-founded are market concerns of a slowdown or recession in 2016?

I don't see any signs whatsoever that there is more likelihood of a recession this year than there would be in any year. Recessions happen once every so often, so I don't want to say there couldn't be something, because things can happen. But when you look at past recessions, usually there's a factor or a group of factors that contribute to [the downturn]. In the past, it's often been an upward movement in oil prices, or we had the tech meltdown, or the housing bubble. So there are imbalances or risks in the economy that are growing and then they come to a head and the economy takes a hit. Right now when I look at those risk factors  household debt, where asset markets are, where business investment is, home construction, all these things that are typically correlated or connected to imbalances in the economy that lead to recessions or inflation  none of those are even blinking yellow, really.

Why hasn't the drop in oil prices been a boon to the economy?

Two things. One is that oil production has once again grown to be a significant factor  we're a bigger producer of oil today than we were five or 10 years ago. So that changes how it affects the economy. Jobs in drilling, extraction, all of the ancillary jobs  that whole industry grew rapidly when prices were high and got hammered when they came down.

The second is, the dynamic in the [hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking"] industry is very different than in the rest of the oil industry. Normally, when you're looking at big oil, if you're thinking about deep-water drilling, they're thinking about 10-year, 20-year investments and extraction. All of those decisions are based on long-term views of where things are going to be. Those tend to be, in economics parlance, "stickier"  if the decision makes sense based on our view of the next 20 years, then there's not much that's going to happen today that's going to change my view. And once you start drilling, the marginal cost of pulling that oil out is very low.

With fracking, it's the exact opposite. You only need a few months to start, you start pulling it out right away, and you're done in a couple years. So all the dynamics are more like your Econ 101 textbook: Price down? Close. Price up? Do more. That's something that has really changed to affect the economy. Basically we saw us lose a lot more jobs, a lot more GDP, a lot more losses to the banking industry down the road because this dynamic is quite different. We kind of knew that, but maybe our modeling of that took a little while to [catch up].

You might say, why don't we see the economy booming even more? I think these headwinds from abroad, the drop in net exports, other factors have been slowing the economy. I don't think it's that lower gas prices haven't been helping; I think it has. It just kind of loses the headlines when GDP is only growing at 2%. We are getting the benefit. That's why consumer spending is growing at more like 3%, car sales are near all-time highs.

Does the oil glut and the fact that it took everybody by surprise mean the Fed needs to rethink the way it predicts oil prices?

I have to admit, our own view here when we look at oil prices is [that] we've given up on trying to predict where they'll go because it's very hard to model the future of oil prices based on past experience. In our own forecasting exercises we tend to follow the futures curve, but we also have done an analysis that shows that the futures curve is no better at predicting oil prices than just taking the spot price and assuming it will stay the random walk.

There's really no good model of predicting oil prices, at least from a macro forecaster's point of view. So we, like [with] many things, plead ignorance and say, assuming oil prices follow what the futures markets indicate they will, what's our forecast? And then we do the risk analysis: what happens instead if oil falls to $20 [per barrel], to $60, that kind of stuff. It's the risk scenarios that, I think, are more informative.

Headline unemployment continues to decline and yet wages remain stagnant and there is persistent slack in the labor market. Why is that?

Normally, if you were to plot various measures of slack in the labor market  like the unemployment rate, various surveys of whether it's easier of harder to get a job from the Conference Board, is it hard or easy to fill a job  they all move together. When the economy is strong, they all say the economy is strong; when the economy is weak, they all say the economy is weak. What happened during the recession is very unusual, in that some of these indicators really did get out of alignment with each other. They all moved in the same direction, but they didn't move in the same proportionality.

The number of people who were part time for economic reasons rose a lot more than you would expect for an unemployment rate than went from 5 to 10 [percent] and now back to, essentially, 5. The part time for economic reasons [metric], with the depth of the recession, the length of the recession, and the very gradual recovery  there was just a more than proportional effect. There was a larger increase in the number of people who dropped out of the labor force but who still wanted a job than you would normally get in a recession. In every recession that number goes up it just went up more than you would expect from the unemployment rate. A lot of economists looked at why [that is] and in my own experience, you want to kind of average over those. If the standard employment rate is telling you that things are better than the other [metrics are], then maybe there's more slack than the unemployment rate is saying.

The good news is all these other indicators have improved a lot. My own prediction is that over the next few months is that more and more of the new jobs are going to be taken not by people who are unemployed officially, but people who are either out of the labor force or people who go from part-time work to full time work. As the unemployment rate gets lower and lower, employers are going to have to be pulling workers in form these margins.

In terms of wages at a superficial level, we're not seeing an acceleration of wages. Our economists have been scratching their head about that and wondering why that's happening. The simple [explanation] is that, we should be looking to real wages relative to productivity, so both adjusting for inflation and productivity. Inflation has been very low for the last several years, there's no question about that. Overall inflation has been very low. So if you look at wage growth of 2.2% and if inflation was only 1%, that's real wage growth. And productivity growth has been horrible. Last year it was about 0.5%. Inflation was below 1%. So that would tell you that wages would only grow about 1.5%, even in a strong labor market. It actually grew a little faster than that.


The terrorist mayhem in Brussels has again produced the predictable hand-wringing about its causes. And again, as in France after last Novembers attacks, the focus has been largely misplaced. Most of the attention has been directed to the role played by ISIS in organizing and carrying out the attacks. In doing that, pundits and officials alike have, willingly or not, diverted attention from the single most important fact in this matter -- the presence of a huge and rapidly growing radical Islamic community in the middle of Europe.

It is this community motivated by a hateful Islamo-fascist ideology that has become the main supplier of radical jihadists to the terrorists in the Middle East and not vice versa. And it is this ideology that not only rejects the basic norms of Western civilization and democracy, but is openly bent on destroying them. And contrary to the facile nonsense that radical Islam does not exist emanating from assorted politically-correct eminencies in Washington and European capitals, this murderous belief system has become the dominant idiom in the Muslim establishment in the West and represents a clear and present danger to our most cherished values.

Time is not on our side. At present, Muslims make up 26% of Brussels population. With an average age of 32 versus 42 for Belgian Christians, the cohort under 18 years of age would be majority Muslim in less than ten years. If they continue to be as radical as they are today, it is difficult to see how Belgian or European democracy could survive.

Here it may be useful to introduce another factor that has played a major role in the Islamization of Molenbeek in the past two decades, though it is virtually never discussed in the politically-correct Belgian media. And that is the de facto alliance between radical Islam and the European Left. In Molenbeek, a hard-left socialist and an anti-Semitic zealot by the name of Philippe Moureaux was re-elected mayor time and again for 20 years by the Muslim vote and allowed the place to become what it has. Nor is this an exception, with the socialist-Islamist collusion an unfortunate fact of life throughout Europe today and likely to become worse.

To understand what could be done to get out of this perilous predicament, we first have to understand how we got there. And this is fairly straightforward. Beginning in the 1960s and 1970s with the post-World War II economy booming, Western Europe began importing millions of gastarbeiter, from Turkey and the Maghreb. Governments everywhere assumed that these guests would go home after a few years and no efforts whatever were made to integrate and assimilate them. In the meantime, flush with money after the 1973 oil embargo, which increased its petrodollar take a hundredfold, Saudi Arabia began a massive program of exporting its radical Wahhabi version of Islam to the West in conjunction with the Muslim Brotherhood. By the early 1980s, Riyadh was spending the colossal sum of $4 billion per annum in that effort. The Muslim Brotherhood Islamist ideologue, Sayyid Qutb and, to a lesser extent, the Pakistani Abul ala Mawdudi, had added a new dimension to radical Islam in the mid-20th century by transforming it into a totalitarian doctrine by postulating the absolute obeisance to the postquranic sharia law as the sine qua non of Islam, declaring Muslim rulers who do not impose sharia apostates to be killed and elevating the Jews and the West to the status of an existential threat to Islam. All three of these radical theories were key innovations not present in Islam before that.

Sharia had always been paid lip service to and occasionally used as family law, but never as the only law until the founding of Saudi Arabia in 1932. The law in the Ottoman Empire, for instance, was an essentially secular law called kanun. Nor have Muslim rulers ever been threatened as apostates if they did not implement sharia in all of Islamic history. As for the Jews, there is plenty of Judeophobia in the foundational Islamic texts, but they generally fared better among the Muslims than among Christians until the Enlightment. Indeed, the virulent Jew-hatred enshrined in Qutbs doctrine was an import from European anti-Semitism as the German scholar of Islam, Bassam Tibi, has argued persuasively.

This then is the Islamist doctrine dominating Muslim societies in Europe today and there is neither much hope that Western society can coexist with it, nor that it is capable of reforming itself. What needs to be done is to eliminate it. The first thing to do is realize that the common denominator of all radical Islamist movements is the violent, discriminatory, and mysoginist sharia law. As early as 2001, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) passed a ruling that sharia law is completely incompatible with democracy and human rights.

A good example of what sharia can lead to is the mass sexual molestation of a thousand German women last New Years Eve in Cologne. To most Westerners, this outrageous behavior was difficult to comprehend. Not so if you were raised in sharia culture. There a woman needs four male witnesses to prove that she was raped, if she does not want to be stoned to death for fornication. A Muslim woman has half the rights a man has, and an infidel woman considerably less than that. Is it any wonder that for the young Muslim men in the Cologne square, the infidel women around them were free to molest? Sharia law, put simply, is not a matter of religion, but of sedition and violence. It has no place anywhere in a democratic society and must be outlawed.

This is directly related also to the current discussion of migrants and refugees. In 2013, the Pew Foundation did research that showed astounding levels of public support for sharia as the only law in many Muslim majority countries, ranging from 83% in Morocco, 84% in Pakistan, 86% in Malaysia, 91% in Iraq and 99% in Afghanistan. To allow hundreds of thousands of the economic migrants from these states in the West would appear shortsighted in the extreme.

Finally, most radical Islamist organizations in Belgium and the rest of Western Europe continue to be funded and radicalized by Saudi Arabian, Middle Eastern and, lately, Turkish government money. These include the sharia-preaching Sharia4Belgium organization, the supposedly moderate Muslim Executive of Belgium (EMB) and the Turkish-dominated anti-secular Islamic Federation of Belgium (FIB) and the Diyanet-controlled Turkish Islamic Federation of Belgium (TIFB). The same is true of the growing number of pan-European Islamist organizations, such as the Federation of European Islamic Organizations (FOIE), the Federation of Muslim Youth Societies (FEMYSO), the European Islamic Trust (EIT) and last but far from least, the ideological overseer of radical Islam in Europe, the European Council for Fatwa and Research (ECFR), headed by none other than suicide bombing advocate and Muslim Brotherhood guru, Yusuf al Qaradawi. No progress could be expected in the struggle against terror until these organizations are defunded and exposed for what they are -- dyed-in-the-wool enemies of European civilization and the democratic order.

Alex Alexiev is chairman of the Center for Balkan and Black Sea Studies (cbbss.org). He twits on national security at twitter.com/alexieff and could be reached at alexievalex4@gmail.com.
Islam cannot conceive of itself as a minority in a secular State. Violent Islamists, an active and determined minority of Muslims, refuse integration. In Europe, they not only intend to keep their Islamic identity, but to Islamize the non-practicing and convert by force the natives of the host country that they inhabit. As the Belgian people, and the whole of the Western Europe, wake up to the growing threat of radical Islam, it is clear that the European Unions comfort-zone has come to an end. The people of Europe are asking themselves, how and why they have so willingly allowed themselves to be blinded to the point of not seeing the proliferation and threat of radical Islam throughout the streets and towns of Europe.

Ever since the day of Napoleon's landing upon the shores of Egypt at the very end of the 18th Century bringing the modern era to the Middle East, Islam has been unable to free itself from the shackles of inferiority and self-destructive primal rage that typifies the hatred of Western civilization by modern day radical Islamists.

Now is the time to consider what makes an Islamic terrorist so barbaric and so hateful of Westerners that they have no reservations about blowing-up and murdering infants, children, women and men as they go about their daily chores. These terror attacks are reminiscent of the indiscriminate killing of Jews and Christians alike before and during the Holocaust. The Islamic terror wave that stalks Europeans to be murdered for no other reason than their Western identity has its roots in Islamic-Nazi ideologies established during the years prior to the Holocaust in Europe. Yet, rather than expose the similarities between Nazi ideology and the Radical Islamic incitement to murder Europeans, the international media chooses to report on the Islamic terror wave exclusively through the prism of a multicultural-politically correct terminology that refuses to demand of Islam to be accountable and take responsible action against the inherent radicalism that so many Muslim young adults have adopted and identify with.

For the Islamic suicide terrorists who blow themselves up, premeditated murder has become a tool for redemption. This current Islamic terror wave can trace its roots to the link between Nazism and the nascent radical Islamic movement during the years prior to World War II. For example, in a Nazi directive of 1943: "The extermination of Jewry throughout the world is the precondition for an enduring peace." Such a statement is remarkably similar, if not identical, to Islamic religious leaders then and now who proclaim at every opportunity that Jews and Christians must be wiped out for Muslims to become Martyrs and reach heaven. A common thread unifies the desire for the total destruction of those that do not accept the Nazi ideology of the past or the Islamist ideology of today; hence the validity of the term Islamo-Nazism. The Nazis spoke of redemptive anti-Semitism, namely a form of anti-Semitism that explains all in the world and offer a form of redemption by exterminating the Jews. Radical Islamic religious leaders provide the same rationale for murdering non-Muslims: their murder is a bridge that martyrs (Shahid) must cross to reach heaven.

The Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and the Mufti Haj Amin al-Husseini in Mandatory Palestine played leading roles in inculcating the spirit of Nazism into Muslim consciousness. Nazis found refuge after the end of World War II and continued their activities in exile in the Arab world, mainly Egypt. Academicians throughout the world are aware of the Islamic-Nazi connection knowing the historical consequences of redemptive anti-Semitism and its current manifestation in Islamic thinking and Islam as a religion. Yet, rather than exposing this indisputable historical fact, they lend their support to perpetuate the false belief that Islamic newcomers to Europe can be integrated and accept the norms, values, and principles of Western society.

The fact that since 9/11, the hatred of the West has reached truly epidemic proportions in the Islamic world has been also been downplayed or ignored by academicians, politicians, and opinion makers in the media. Overlooked as well in the history books is the fact that about 100,000 European Muslims fought on the Nazi side in World War II. They included two Bosnian Muslim Waffen SS Divisions, an Albanian Waffen SS Division in Kosovo and Western Macedonia, the Waffengruppe der-SS Krim formations consisting of Chechen Muslims from Chechnya, and other Muslim formations in Bosnia-Hercegovina.

Islamic Anti-Semitism has long been recognized as the Arab worlds prominent vehicle for the hatred of the Jews. From Islamic academics teaching that Judaism permits murder and rape of non-Jews, to religious leaders teaching that Islam demands the extermination of Jews, Islamic redemptive anti-Semitism is a compelling force driving hatred and terror. Jews are depicted as the archetypal force of evil throughout history. Jews are said to be responsible for all the worlds problems: wars, financial crises, even the spreading of AIDS. In short, Jews are a danger to humanity.

While this paradigm has been used by Nazis before, the Islamists take it a step further, turning the demonization of Jews into the basis for Palestinian denial of Israels right to exist and a central component of Islamic thinking and Islamic religious identity. The Anti-Semitic oppression, persecution and expulsions suffered by Jews throughout history are presented as the legitimate self-defense responses of the Nazis then and the Islamic nations of the world today. The ongoing Islamic terror wave in Europe is a testament of the transformation of the Nazis redemptive anti-Semitism to an Islamic need to murder innocent non-Muslims for eternal redemption in heaven.

Radical Islam has created a false and deceptive reality that will sooner than later crumble and implode. Over the past five years we have all witnessed how quickly Arab leaders throughout the Middle East have had to flee from their own people due to the eruption of rage and hatred by Muslim believers. The true narrative of the Middle East is that no Islamic state genuinely respects human rights. No Islamic state hosts a responsible media. No Islamic society fully respects the rights of women or minorities, and no Islamic government has ever accepted public responsibility for its own shortcomings. Blame of Jews and the West has become the opiate of the Muslim world.

Thus is born the obsessive campaign to demonize and de-legitimize all members of Western societies, Jews and Christians alike. Only by spreading the word and exposing the historically lethal link between Nazism and Islamic terror, the modern torchbearers of redemptive anti-Semitism, can we regain the moral high ground in defending Western civilization against the global tsunami of Islamic terror throughout the world.

Ron Jager is a 25-year veteran of the I.D.F., and has served as a field mental health officer. Prior to retiring in 2005, he served as the Commander of the Central Psychiatric Military Clinic for Reserve Soldiers at Tel-Hashomer. Since retiring from active duty, he provides consultancy services to NGOs implementing Psycho trauma and Psycho education programs to communities in the North and South of Israel. Today Ron is a strategic advisor at the Office of the Chief Foreign Envoy of Judea and Samaria. Contact: medconf@netvision.net.il
During John Kasich's salad days as a congressional budget wonk, George W. Bush referred to him as "the future of the Republican party." Now, in this tumultuous election year, the question arises whether Kasich  or, indeed, the Republican Party  has any future at all.

Kasich threw his hat in the ring rather late last year. He was lining up financial supporters, because he knows from past experience that one cannot seriously conduct a nationwide campaign without a war chest of considerable proportions.

In 2000, Kasich formed an exploratory committee to investigate his chances for the Republican presidential nomination. Unable to get the necessary backing, he abandoned the race even before the Iowa straw polls and threw his support behind the eventual candidate, George W. Bush.

Sixteen years later, he finds himself a distant third among the remaining trio of Republican wannabes, with only 143 delegates to Trump's 739 and Cruz's 465. He has not caused much of a stir during his run, except for the present controversy as to whether he should stay in the fray or drop out and let the two top dogs duke it out.

Naturally, the Cruz camp is most insistent in urging Kasich's exit, the assumption being that his votes would automatically go to Ted. Put in graphic terms, Ted would amputate John to avoid the gangrenous demise of the GOP at the tainted hands of the frontrunner.

Ingratiatingly, Cruz has invited Kasich's voters to abandon him and join "our team" in an effort to defeat Donald Trump. In fact, the complication of Kasich's lingering candidacy has prompted some strange maneuvers in GOP ranks, such as Mitt Romney's campaigning with him, then telling his fellow Utah Republicans, mostly Mormons, to vote for Cruz in the state primary. Cruzers even insinuate that a vote for spoiler Kasich is a vote for The Donald. Trump, on the other hand, while welcoming a one-on-one contest with "Lyin' Ted," understands that his chances of besting him improve the longer Kasich sticks around.

The growing personal animosity between Trump and Cruz has spiraled out of control, threatening to implode the GOP as it lurches uncertainly toward the Cleveland convention and beyond. This was supposed to be the year when any Republican could beat Hillary. Instead, it has ended up being the year Republicans beat up on themselves.

The escalating ugliness has taken its toll on a worried electorate. Recent polls show that only a third of Republican voters are satisfied with the process of choosing the standard-bearer. The unprecedented intrusion of GOP bigwigs to influence the outcome has obviously further angered voters. Well aware of Her Heinous's preconceived lock on the Democrat race, we now find that the GOP hierarchy has stooped to that same low level of duplicity.

So rather than being sucked into the Republican primary maelstrom, John Kasich is clinging to the flotsam of hope. Everyone would agree that he does not have a "mathematical" path to the nomination. But there are other factors that could "figure" in.

No love will ever be lost between Cruz and Trump. If The Donald manages to get the necessary 1,237 delegates to win on the convention's first ballot, that's that. The anti-Trump die-hards will stay home on election day  or worse, vote for Hillary.

If no candidate goes to Cleveland with the required delegates, neither of the two front-runners will stoop to endorse the other on subsequent ballots. And a hung jury could mean a public hanging for the Republicans in November.

Enter John Kasich, unarguably the most experienced candidate on both the federal and state level, along with years in the private sector. Even more important is that recent polls give him a substantial lead in a challenge with Hillary Clinton. And in the end, Republicans want to win.

Kasich is a rather bland guy, but his non-threatening image could make him generally more voter-acceptable than the divisive front-runners. Early in the primaries, the consensus was that a competent governor would likely clinch the nomination. This may yet take precedence over any desire among GOP voters for an "outsider."

Having been largely ignored by the media, John Kasich is making a gradual comeback. He is gaining ground in the polls in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. So he hopes to stay in the race until the convention, where he'll be positioned as a compromise to two very contentious candidates whose followers will not support the other and whose mutual rancor could doom the Republican Party.

If the GOP wants victory in November, it could do far worse than choosing John Kasich as its standard-bearer. His resume is impressive, and, most of all, he could unite the party and go all the way to the White House.

So why hasn't John been embraced with greater enthusiasm? The answer could lie more in his personal, as opposed to his political, posture. He looks more folksy than presidential. Sartorial splendor aside, he at least needs to jettison the windbreakers and checked shirts in favor of more suits and ties. Rather than hugging trees and disillusioned constituents, he needs to start embracing his own electability.

We already know by now that John's Croatian father was a mail carrier. We're aware of the governor's successes in Ohio, a crucial bellwether state. What he needs to do now is inform us how we, as a nation, can benefit from the other aspects of his background: 18 years on the House Armed Services Committee, chairman of the House Budget Committee, key figure in the passage of welfare reform and the 1997 Balanced Budget Act under President Clinton. Hillary will tout her State Department experience; John needs to counter with his own broad knowledge.

John Kasich is well qualified to be commander in chief. Democrats, in general, regard him as a good person, someone who can unite, not divide, our country. Attacks against him won't easily fly.

In this crucial election year, America's future may well depend on Republicans seeing John Kasich again for the first time.
Lets talk about carpet bombing, Dresden, and obscure Syrian city called Raqqa, the de facto capital of the ISIS caliphate. Ted Cruz has taken a lot of scorn from Democrat politicians, the press, and pundits on the left and right for his recommendation that we carpet bomb ISIS. Today, carpet bombing is generally considered liberals and elites of all stripes as an atavistic type of warfare from the past, like tossing diseased corpses over battlements (the type of horrible thing Christians did during the Crusades a millennium ago, as President Obama likes to remind) and illegal to boot. But neither proposition is true, nor is Cruzs proposal necessarily a bad one. There are sound strategic and moral reasons for carpet bombing ISIS, and substantial legal justification for doing so under the laws of war.

First of all, lets define carpet bombing. It simply means to systematically bomb a target area in order to destroy it. It doesnt necessarily mean bombing a city, nor does it mean that the bombing is indiscriminate. A concentration of enemy troops in an open area where there is little of or chance of causing damage to noncombatants or noncombatant structures is a perfectly and unarguably legitimate target for such bombing. Only 25 years ago, coalition forces effectively carpet bombed the Iraqi army out of the Kuwaiti desert with huge concentrations of dumb bombs without raising any serious moral or legal concerns.

Matters become more complex in when targeted troops are not concentrated in areas as desolate and identifiable as the open desert, but that still doesnt render area bombing illegal or obsolescent. In a recent article at the "War on the Rocks" website, a former deputy judge advocate general of the Air Force explains in detail the legal grounding for carpet bombing. In summary, the tactic does not violate any international statute to which this nation is a party. The 1977 Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 does prohibit area bombings of military targets in built-up civilian areas, but the United States is not a party to the Protocol Additional (nor is Israel.) So long as there are legitimate military targets in the area, and reasonable discrimination is utilized in targeting to limit civilian casualties the tactic does not violate the laws of war. Nor ought the U.S. armed forces worry about the newly popular concept of proportionality. As I argued in an article for the Strategic Studies Institute this obscure law of war concept is without actual merit, and only gained attention when it was trotted out during the 2006 Lebanon War as a way to castigate Israel. It has since been used as a cudgel for critics of Western military action in general.

Unfortunately, both the United States and Israel over the years have acted as if they are bound by the Protocols Additional, not only with respect to area bombing, but as with other controversial matters relating to combat against irregular forces in general. For example, the FM 27-10 (the Army field manual on the Law of Land Warfare) acknowledges the proportionality rule, even though it is only expressly mentioned as a binding law of war concept in the Protocol Additional. This unnecessary acquiesce to a statute to which we are not bound may give the impression that its provisions do restrict us, and allows critics of the American and/or Israeli militaries to claim that the Protocols Additional have become a part of customary international law, even if some states are not a party to the agreement.

Its quite likely that a notional President Cruz (with his substantial legal acumen) would not be afraid to openly acknowledge and remind that the United States was not bound by the Protocol Additional. Were he to order such a carpet bombing of ISIS he would actually be on firm legal ground, and he has the lawyerly chops to defend it.

But what about the ethical connotations associated with carpet bombing, especially in a built-up area where civilian casualties would be a certainty? To deal address this issue, lets look at what many regard as the ultimate example of an immoral area attack -- the firebombing of Dresden in 1945. Since Kurt Vonnegut wrote his clever novel Slaughterhouse Five (partially set in Dresden where Vonnegut was being held as a POW) that episode is seen by many (especially on the left) as an example of beyond the pale area bombing in which upwards of 30,000 civilians died. Dresden was a beautiful city (the Florence of the Elbe) and seemed to hold little military significance. The attack has been variously condemned as a bloodthirsty reprisal for the German bombing of Coventry in 1940, or a purely gratuitous attack on the one remaining major German city that had not yet been heavily bombed.

But the truth is different. By February 1945 Dresden had become a Nazi sanctuary city, and a vital road and rail center through which the Nazis funneled troops and supplies to Eastern Front which by then was uncomfortably close. By the standards of 1945 aerial bombing taking out the Dresden rail yards (in the center of the city) meant taking out the center of the city itself. (It also ought to be pointed out, contra Vonnegut, that the actual "carpet bombing" was carried out by RAF Bomber Command aircraft. The concurrent U.S. 8th Air Force marshaling yard strike was an attempt at a precision raid.) The bombing was not completely indiscriminate for the time, nor gratuitous -- only the Alt Stadt on the south side of the Elbe was destroyed, while the Neu Stadt on the other side of the bridges was left mostly unscathed. Thats not to say the bombing was not unfortunate or terrible. When I first visited Dresden as a teenager in 1975 (it was my fathers hometown) there were still massive piles of rubble dotting the cityscape, though covered over with a layer of green grass, moss and trees. There was nothing left of his old neighborhood except ugly Communist block housing. (Nowadays, by the way, Dresden is beautiful once again.)

Morally, despite the loss of life, the bombing of Dresden was justified. The Nazi regime was odious enough to warrant the cost in civilian life, since every day the regime survived many thousands of innocent civilians and allied soldiers died. The same is true of the ISIS sanctuary of Raqqa where civilians are trapped under a murderous regime, where endless pinprick aerial bombings still frighten, and from which the organization dispatches killers to terrorize Western cities. Carpet bombing the Raqqa sanctuary need not be as inaccurate as the Dresden bombing (modern technology being what it is) but it is not moral to hesitate to act against ISISs evil because some civilians would perish in a substantially more robust bombing campaign.

Even more than that, such an attack would send a powerful political, psychological and military message that reluctant war of hand-wringing ethical uncertainties has given way to one of determination and moral clarity. It is something that President Obama will never do, nor would Hillary Clinton. That Ted Cruz has proposed such a thing is not to be mocked but actually welcomed. Carpet bombing ISIS would be a militarily sound and morally justifiable thing to do.
Sources have told the Los Angeles Times that the FBI has alerted attorneys for Hillary Clinton's aides, telling them that the Bureau will be interviewing them about Clinton's private email server and the potential misshandling of classified information. The sources say the interviews will be conducted in the next few weeks.

No dates have been set for questioning the advisors, but a federal prosecutor in recent weeks has called their lawyers to alert them that he would soon be doing so, the sources said. Prosecutors also are expected to seek an interview with Clinton herself, though the timing remains unclear.

The interviews by FBI agents and prosecutors will play a significant role in helping them better understand whether Clinton or her aides knowingly or negligently discussed classified government secrets over a non-secure email system when she served as secretary of State.

The meetings also are an indication that much of the investigators' background work  recovering deleted emails, understanding how the server operated and determining whether it was breached  is nearing completion.

The interviews are critical to understand the volume of information they have accumulated, said James McJunkin, former head of the FBI's Washington field office. They are likely nearing the end of the investigation and the agents need to interview these people to put the information in context. They will then spend time aligning these statements with other information, emails, classified documents, etc., to determine whether there is a prosecutable case."

Many legal experts believe that Clinton faces little risk of being prosecuted for using the private email system to conduct official business when she served as secretary of State, though that decision has raised questions among some about her judgment. They noted that using a private email system was not banned at the time, and others in government had used personal email to transact official business.

The bigger question is whether she or her aides distributed classified material in email systems that fell outside of the departments secure classified system. But even if prosecutors determine that she did, chances she will be found criminally liable are low. U.S. law makes it a crime for someone to knowingly or willfully retain classified information, handle it in a grossly negligent manner or to pass it to someone not entitled to see it.

Clinton has denied using the email account to send or receive materials marked classified. Though some emails have since been deemed to be too sensitive to release publicly, Clinton's campaign has attributed that to overzealous intelligence officials and "over-classification run amok."
Hillary Clintons allies are carefully implementing a strategy to deal with a possible criminal referral to the Justice Department by the FBI. Unfortunately, I have to take serious issue with my colleague Rick Morans interpretation of a Los Angeles Times story on the FBIs move to begin formal interviews with Hillarys aides, and probably with Hillary herself, as the probe moves toward its final phase.

Rick writes:

It appears that federal prosecutors are setting a very high bar when it comes to criminal behavior by Hillary Clinton.

But the LAT story suggests a high bar by quoting outside experts who provide tortured rationalizations for not prosecuting Hillary. We do not know what the prosecutors themselves are saying, because nobody is quoted by name. And it is the FBI who will make a criminal referral. The DoJ may very well decline to prosecute, but if that happens and the story is leaked (as it almost surely will be), then Team Hillary needs a counterstrategy. Thats where the Los Angeles Times story comes in.

A correspondent aptly summarizes what is wrong with the article:

The conclusions of this article seem to be based on non sequiturs. Seems pretty mindless to me. First the article says: "The bigger question is whether she or her aides distributed classified material in email systems that fell outside of the departments secure classified system. How can this be a question? Her system clearly "fell outside of the departments secure classified system" and she contrived to send and receive all of her State emails on it. She was the highest ranking officer at State with the highest security clearance. It was inevitable that she would be sending and receiving classified information outside the department's secure classified system. That's true even if some emails did not become classified until after they were received or sent or even if some of them were over classified. And despite the fact that she destroyed all the emails in her system before the investigation, the investigation has shown that she had many highly classified or top secret emails on her non secure server. And even if some other Secretaries of State did exactly the same thing, as she claims, it's not a defense. And it's also not the case. Apparently someone sent two former Secretaries one or two emails on their personal email address but that does not show the Secretaries intent and it's a far cry from what Hillary did in setting up a non secure email system to send and receive all her State emails. Second, the article suggests that it does not seem that she violated the law because "U.S. law makes it a crime for someone to knowingly or willfully retain classified information, handle it in a grossly negligent manner or to pass it to someone not entitled to see it." How can It be denied that she knowingly or willfully retained classified information or handled it in a grossly negligent manner" by using her non secure system for all her State emails given that as the highest ranking State officer with the highest security clearance, she would inevitably be retaining highly classified information on her server.

I see the Los Angeles Times as laying the groundwork for Hillary and her supporters to claim that a criminal referral from the FBI would be unjustified, and the result of overzealous agents seeking to justify their expensive inquiry. When Bill Clintons scandals were being investigated, the Democrats suddenly became obsessed with the cost of a government program, detailing the spending of Kenneth Starr. You can expect the Hillary camp to do the same with a criminal referral should it occur.

The Washington Post published an even longer front-page story on the investigation, with a detailed chronology of events. The key takeaways (hat tip: Ed Lasky, who supplies the emphases):
After sweeping the weekend caucuses in Hawaii, Washington, and Alaska, and winning 5 out of the last 6 Democratic nominating contests, Vermont senator Bernie Sanders feels he has the momentum in the race and believes he can still catch Hillary Clinton.

The Hill:

"I think the momentum is with us," Sanders said on CNN's "State of the Union" with Jake Tapper on Sunday. "A lot of these superdelegates may rethink their positions with Secretary Clinton." The Vermont senator swept Saturday's Democratic contests in Washington, Alaska and Hawaii, easily winning the majority of the 142 pledged delegates in those states. The biggest prize of the day was in Washington, which offered 101 delegates to be split up on a proportional basis. The latest delegate counts still put Sanders behind Clinton, however, with 1,004 pledged delegates to her 1,712. Of those, 469 are superdelegates who have pledged to Clinton and only 29 have pledged to Sanders. Sanders on Sunday said those superdelegates may begin to see the "reality" that he's the best candidate to beat GOP front runner Donald Trump. "I think when they begin to look at reality, and that is that we are beating Donald Trump by much larger margins than Secretary Clinton" Sanders said. "And then you've got superdelegates in states where we win by 40 or 50 points. I think their own constituents are going to say to them, 'Hey, why don't you support the people of our state and vote for Sanders?'"

Sanders has a point, but the bulk of superdelegates are not likely to bolt  yet. The next three Democratic nominating contests in Wisconsin (4/5), Wyoming (4/9), and the crucial New York primary on 4/19 will tell the tale if Democrats are going to ride with Hillary or not.

Sanders will be competitive in Wisconsin and likely run away with the Wyoming caucuses. But if Clinton can't win New York, no matter what the delegate count might be at that point, a lot of party elders will be seriously weighing an alternative to her. It might not be Sanders, although the Vermont senator runs better against Trump and Cruz than Hillary. The least controversial alternative would be Vice President Joe Biden.

But in order to get Biden to the podium to accept the nomination, Democrats  like Republicans thinking of supplanting Donald Trump  would have to throw out the convention rulebook. It can be done, but not without terrible bloodletting on the convention floor and the risk of alienating Sanders supporters.

It will be ironic after heavily criticizing the superdelegate part of the campaign if Sanders depends on them to overtake Clinton and win the nomination outright.
Earlier today I read that Ballroom Barry is doubling down on his demands that Americans open their hearts and homeland to 100,000 Syrian refugees. In his brief Easter remarks, Obama said:

"We have to wield another weapon alongside our airstrikes, our military, our counterterrorism work, and our diplomacy," Obama said. "And that's the power of our example. Our openness to refugees fleeing ISIL's violence. Our determination to win the battle against ISIL's hateful and violent propaganda -- a distorted view of Islam that aims to radicalize young Muslims to their cause."

Shortly I read that, a veteran friend out in Guam sent me this refugee pic:

Notice the obvious: that its wet, possibly snowing, and the coats, hoods, and hands in pockets convey that its uncomfortably cold as well. Then notice the less evident fact that the woman is shoeless, unlike any of the seven males. Also, distinct from any of those males, she is carrying two small children, with the toil of her burden shown in the distressed expression on her face. Notably, hers is the only face showing any strain within the group. Seven healthy future American males, but not one will share the weight of the small children with this woman, much less see to it that she has proper footwear.

Obama says ISIS presents a distorted view of Islam, so Im compelled to ask: Mr. President, is this an authentic view?
See also: The CDC is trying to make 86 million Americans sick

The CDC is correct in calling attention to a health condition, pre-diabetes, afflicting 86 million Americans. Laudably, they have publicized lifestyle programs in community centers, pharmacies, faith-based organizations, and online to reverse this condition.

Pre-diabetes is officially defined by the American Diabetic Association as having an elevated A1c level of 5.7 or more, but less than 6.5, the level at which diabetes is diagnosed. A1c measures blood sugar over the past two or three months. The goalposts for diagnosis have shifted; not long ago, you needed to have a level of 6.0 to be called pre-diabetic and 7.0 to be diabetic.

Diabetes can be prevented and in many instances reversed by proper nutrition and exercise.

The prevention of diabetes is extremely important as a public health measure. In the U.S., we will be spending billions of dollars on diabetes care in coming decades. There is increasing recognition that diabetes and Alzheimers disease are inextricably related. In fact, the concept that Alzheimers is Type 3 diabetes has been around for a decade.

Type 1 diabetes develops from childhood, and Type 2 is adult onset (although many children are now getting Type 2 diabetes). The cost of Alzheimers in the U.S. in 2015 was $226 billion. There are new initiatives for reversing Alzheimers, mainly with lifestyle modification. Blood sugar control is a central aspect of these programs. In the Bredesen protocol, which reversed 6 out of 7 cases of early Alzheimers in a pilot program, the AIC goal was 5.3, much stricter than the current prediabetes marker.

In fact, even before blood sugar problems are detectable, there can be dysfunction in the beta cells of the pancreas, causing insulin resistance. Before diabetes with actual insulin deficiency develops, high insulin levels can occur due to lack of sensitivity to insulin.

Insulin resistance is the major cause of obesity. The epidemic of obesity, with a large percentage of the U.S. youth unfit for military service, has profound implications for our combat readiness and national security. Obesity is also a big factor in the poor U.S. ranking in maternal mortality statistics. Insulin resistance can damage the brain even before blood sugar rises and is a contributing factor to cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and hormonal infertility.

Mark Hyman, M.D. has coined the term diabesity for the current epidemic of obesity, pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, and Type 2 diabetes. His excellent book, The Blood Sugar Solution, is dedicated to the first generation of children in history that will live sicker and die younger than their parents. Desire to live in a free society is paramount, but some regulation might be necessary if common sense prevails. One place to start is removing government incentives for high-fructose corn syrup and other junk foods.

Blood sugar control, insulin resistance, and obesity are linked to our well-being as a nation. Americans may never accept waist measurements in the workplace as part of a national program to curb obesity, as do the Japanese. But a lifestyle education program as proposed by the CDC is a modest first step.

Mary L. Davenport, M.D., M.S., FACOG practices obstetrics and gynecology and integrative medicine in El Sobrante, California.
Okunoshima is a small island located in the Inland Sea of Japan between Hiroshima and Shikoku. During World War II the island used to be a top-secret military site manufacturing poison gas for chemical warfare. Today, its completely overrun with cute, fluffy bunnies who are the islands main inhabitants.

Between 1929 and 1945, Okunoshima Island was a chemical warfare production site for the Imperial Japanese Army that produced over six kilotons of mustard gas. The island was chosen for its isolation, conducive to security, and because it was far enough from Tokyo and other areas in case of disaster. The program was shrouded in secrecy and during its 16 years of operation, Okunoshima was even erased from maps. Residents and potential employees were not told what the plant was manufacturing and everything was kept secret.

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With the end of the war, documents concerning the plant were burned and Allied Occupation Forces disposed of the gas either by dumping, burning, or burying it, and people were told to be silent about the project.

According to some sources, the rabbits were brought to Okunoshima to test the effects of the poison and released by workers when World War II ended. Others sources claim that a group of schoolchildren were on a field trip, when they released eight rabbits in 1971. Regardless, the original bunnies of Okunoshima and their successive generations of offspring thrived in their predator-free environment.

Today the 700-square-meter 700,000 square-meter island is home to more than 300 rabbits that roam freely, earning the nickname of Usagi Shima, or Rabbit Island. Though wild, the rabbits on the island are used to humans and will approach visitors in search of a snack, and hop on to laps. Visitors are allowed to pet and feed the animals, but in an effort to preserve the bunny population, dogs and cats are not allowed on the island. Pellets of rabbit food are sold for 100 a cup at the Kyukamura Okunoshima resort hotel located on the island. The hotel has recently seen a steep increase in visitors to the island since knowledge of the islands furry residents spread on the Internet.

Although most visitors to the island come here to see the bunnies, Rabbit Islands poison gas legacy isnt over. Okunoshima is also home to the Poison Gas Museum opened in 1988, in order to alert as many people as possible to the dreadful truths about poison gas.

Some argue the island might not be completely safe as there has never been any major decontamination of the whole island. Its rumoured that there are several sealed locations on the island where workers reportedly buried gas when the war ended.

Also see: Tashirojima - The Cat Island of Japan and The Swimming Pigs of Big Major Cay, Bahamas

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The Poison Gas Museum. Photo credit

Former poison gas laboratory on Okunoshima. Photo credit

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Sources: Wikipedia, Coilhouse, Gethiroshima, CNN, MNN, via Oddity Central
Standing atop a 100-meter high hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean outside Dakar, in Senegal, stands the gigantic Monument to the African Renaissance. At 49 meters, its the tallest statue in the whole of the African continent, even taller than the Statue of Liberty by several feet.

Meant to pay homage to the African people, the statue has instead drawn huge criticism for everything  its $27 million price tag, the Stalinist-style machismo, its un-Islamic depiction of women, and the utilization of foreign workers.

Photo credit: Sbreitinger/Wikimedia

When it was completed in 2010, Wade faced criticism for spending too much money on the statue when the country was reeling under an economic crises. The financing itself was based on a controversial arrangement in which a private developer paid for the construction in exchange for a lucrative parcel of government land near the airport. To make matter worse, Wade began to claim intellectual property rights of the statue, and insisted that he be paid 35 percent of the profits raised as royalty.

Wade also came under fire for falsely claiming the statues Senegalese origin, when it was revealed that it was designed by a Romanian architect and built by a North Korean sculpting company famous for various projects and large statues throughout Africa. Few people understood why a statue celebrating African freedom and renaissance had to be build by foreign nationals.

Then, there was some who took offence at the scantily clad woman revealing part of her breasts and thighs, calling it a sacrilege against Muslim culture. Others pointed out that the facial features of the statues didnt bear resemblance to African people. Some even rumored that its male face was crafted to resemble Mr. Wade. Most agree that Soviet-style statue is out of place, and represents the macho sexism of African authoritarian rulers than anything else.

The monument is one of the most visited in Dakar today, but the revenue generated from the handful of visitors is still not enough to cover the sites operating cost.

Photo credit: Jeff Attaway/Flickr

Photo credit: Jeff Attaway/Flickr

Photo credit: Evgeni Zotov/Flickr

Photo credit: John Karwoski/Flickr

Photo credit: John Karwoski/Flickr

Photo credit: John Karwoski/Flickr

Photo credit: Jeff Attaway/Flickr

Sources: Wikipedia / NPR / The Globe And Mail
Upgrading a smartphone to the latest premium model year after year is not something everyone is willing to do, partly due to the fact that flagship phones are rather expensive. Smartphone manufacturers are aware of this, which is why some of them have begun offering upgrade programs for smartphone enthusiasts willing to pay a monthly fee in order to secure their next flagship phone at a reduced price. Samsungs program of this sort was launched in conjunction with the brand new Samsung Galaxy S7 series, and it is already available in countries like UK, Singapore, and, of course, the companys homeland. But how many Samsung Galaxy S7 buyers are willing to sign up for the so-called Upgrade Programme after all? The answer  at least for prospective customers in South Korea  seems to be 1 out of 3.

The Galaxy S7 series has been available for purchase in South Korea since March 11, and evidently, the companys new upgrade program (known as Galaxy Club in South Korea as opposed to Samsung Upgrade Programme in the UK) also became available around that date. Needless to say, prospective customers in South Korea have had a little over two weeks at their disposal to purchase the new Samsung Galaxy S7 and decide whether or not they should sign up for the upgrade program as well. This also gave Samsung enough time to see how many customers will be interested in joining the Galaxy Club within the first two weeks of availability. Now, according to Seoul-based Reuters tech reporter Vincent Lee and one of his recent tweets citing Samsung, 1 out of 3 customers in South Korea who have already purchased Samsungs latest flagship phone have also signed up for Galaxy Club.

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Galaxy Club, or Samsung Upgrade Programme if you will, is basically a 24-month payment plan for Samsung Galaxy S7 customers, similar to Apples yearly upgrade plan. It allows customers to purchase the new flagship and secure a lower price for the upcoming Galaxy S8, which should be set for a market release in the first half of 2017. The upgrade program offers other benefits too, including a 50% one-time discount for repairing a handset thats no longer covered by its warranty.
Three years ago, T-Mobile USA set about to disrupt the North American cellular industry. They called themselves Americas Uncarrier and have worked hard at changing how the industry works. It has taken some time, but the other carriers have changed their behavior in order to follow T-Mobiles lead. In some respects, the competition have also preempted T-Mobiles behavioral changes but lets not forget: it was T-Mobile that loudly started this revolution. The business has enjoyed success, too, comparatively recently overtaking Sprint in order to become Americas third largest carrier. And today T-Mobile USA published what it is calling a Bill of Rights on their website, which details their interpretation of the wireless rights all customers should have.

The document, which is published via a PDF at the source link below, goes into some detail to explain in layman terms what it believes customers should expect from their wireless carrier. This includes the ability to walk away from the relationship should it not be working out. As part of this, T-Mobile also believes that customers ought to love their device and be able to replace it when they want, rather than be tied into a two year contract. T-Mobile USA also explain how they do not believe customers should ever receive bill shock, that is, additional charges because customers go over their account limits. The wireless bill of rights also explains how T-Mobile does not believe carriers should increase prices for data overuse. And where customers have paid for additional data, T-Mobile USA believe they should have this kept safe in their account for at least a year. T-Mobile USA also mention streaming video and music without fear of going over data allowances  explaining that the wireless company should help you do what you love and makes reference to pushing their own (streaming) services onto customers seemingly in order to run up data use and perhaps push customer accounts into overuse and hence additional charges.

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T-Mobile USA also reference their international roaming options, explaining that customers should be able to roam without fear, and that customers should not have to switch off their phone or their data connection when going overseas for fear of excessively high roaming rates. Partially linked with this is T-Mobile USAs belief that customers deserve great coverage but where the cellular network does not reach, should be able to use Wi-Fi instead: this means using Wi-Fi to route calls and text messages. And finally, T-Mobile USA believe customers should never be left wondering if they have received the best deal from their carrier  and that businesses should get the best price up front just as ordinary consumers do.

T-Mobiles wireless bill of rights has the makings of a charm offensive: the poster asks customers of other carriers to take it into their local stores and make these demands. The Uncarrier has been the subject of some adverse publicity in recent months, as other carriers have complained that T-Mobile USA does not fully explain that its customers are only free to leave their service after they have paid for their equipment. However, the poster should certainly make for interesting reading for customers of other carriers.

https://youtu.be/Eg6J1PyDnwo
When we think about Samsung, the main products that come in mind are smartphones, since the company is the largest maker in the world. However, the South Korean giant has its fingers in several areas and Samsung is also one of the largest chipmakers in the market, producing memory (DRAM) and storage (NAND flash) for many clients which include Qualcomm, Apple and other mainstream smartphone makers. If facing fierce competition on the smartphone segment isnt hard enough, Samsungs dominant position in the chip market is about to be challenged as well thanks to a whopping $30-billion investment from Tsinghua Unigroup Ltd.,a Chinese government-backed company that aims to take down Samsung and other Korean chip manufacturers.

During an interview to Bloomberg, Tsinghua Unigroups president Zhao Weiguo stated that the huge investment will be made in the following years to grow its semiconductor business, which will add to previous efforts by the company to make its stand in the market: in 2013, Unigroup acquired Spreadtrum for $1.78 billion, and in 2014 it bought RDA Microelectronics for $907 million, and both were Chinese fabless semiconductor companies. Additionally, the Chinese group also tried to acquire a stake in Western Digital, one of the largest manufacturers of hard disk drives, but the deal as scrapped in February. The expressive sum of $30 billion is almost three times Samsungs investment budget of $11.5 billion for their semiconductor business and it will surely bring some headaches for the Korean company.

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The pursue to gain a dominant position on the chip manufacturing market is part of a strategy by the Chinese government to become independent from Western makers and it was fueled by revelations made by Edward Snowden that the American government used electronics shipped to China to spy on them. Since then, several groups backed by the Chinese government have been receiving generous funds to develop their own chip businesses. Last July, Tsinghua Unigroup also made headlines when they tried to buy Micron Technology, an American semiconductor maker, for a whopping $23 billion. The deal didnt go through, either, and now it seems that Unigroup will be trying its luck in building the whole business themselves. As a result, Samsung may face difficult times as its profits are already set to fall to $4.9 billion in Q1 2016, mainly thanks to increased competition in the semiconductor business, down from $5.63 billion a year ago.
It was just last week when it was reported that the Gold Platinum Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge were due to become available in Canada on March 28. That day is here, and in line with expectation, you can now purchase this color from the Samsung Experience Store locations. There are a few stumbling blocks  according to the information, the inventory on the popular color is very low, so the product will first go to those who pre-ordered the color at the Samsung Store locations. Sources also report that there should be plenty to go around by mid-April. There is still no word when the carriers might start carrying the color  or if they ever will, but the Silver and Black models seem to be plentiful.

The new Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge are mere refinements of the complete redo of the Galaxy S6 series  they are difficult to distinguish from one another without a cursory look. It is all about slight curves  the top front is slightly curved down to make holding it up to your ear easier, and the sides are slightly curved to make it easier to pick up off a flat surface, as well as being more comfortable to hold. The real upgrades are located on the inside of the device  always-on display, new Exynos 8890 octa-core processor in Canada packed with 4GB of DDR4 RAM and 32 or 64 GB of the faster UFS 2.0 flash memory that is now expandable to 200GB via a microSD card. Samsung removed the expandability in the Galaxy S6 but thankfully brought it back in the Galaxy S7 models. The battery size increased this year, but both are still non-removable, although offer rapid charge and quick wireless charging capabilities. IP68 certification is back on the Galaxy S7 models to help with dust and water-resistance.

Samsung made changes in the variety of models this year as well. They left the Galaxy S7 at its normal 5.1-inch size but stretched the Galaxy S7 Edge from 5.1-inches to 5.5-inches. This move looks likely to be a measure to account for the lack of a 5.7-inch Galaxy S7 Edge Plus, leaving the door open for a Galaxy Note 6 with a dual-curved display or a new Galaxy Note 6 Edge. To some, this will be great news as Samsung is often criticized with having too many models and making it difficult for consumers to decide which one to purchase.
After parting ways with The Peoples Republic Of China a few years back, Google saw their services replaced by local elements such as Baidu and WeChat, even as their market share grew globally, for the most part. Although they recently began an initiative to get back in the good graces of the most populous nation in the world, their services are still mostly blocked by Chinas Golden Shield Project, also known as the Great Firewall. This means that any IP address in mainland China cannot access Googles services without going through a virtual private network. Between the hours of 11:30 PM Sunday night and 1:15 AM, Chinese local time, Googles newest servers IP addresses werent registered to the Great Firewalls databases. This meant that, for just over an hour and a half, everybody in China was able to access Google.

The Great Firewall has had occasional hiccups in the past, with both Facebook and Twitter slipping through at times. On this occasion, of course, only Google was accessible, since only Google added new IP addresses to their server list. Specifically, the Great Firewall failed to catch new IP addresses for Googles search service, though their other services remained blocked. For a brief period, some of the populace actually believed that Google had been voluntarily unblocked. According to a local newspaper, the South China Morning Post, many people believed that this meant that free speech had returned to mainland China, even taking to social networks such as Sina Weibo to declare such.

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China has made their stance on United States-based web services quite clear, keeping their citizens from accessing a great many popular services that came from the States. Although the Great Firewall is a major factor in the virtual lives of all Chinese citizens, the system is not entirely perfect. Googles rather innocuous actions on Sunday night being enough to temporarily subvert the system assert as much, although it speaks to the dedication of the powers that be that the hole was patched up in less than two hours time. Googles brief return to the Peoples Republic of China, in the end, didnt mean much and, like prior glitches in the Great Firewall, is unlikely to result in any significant changes.
The Huawei Honor 7 was introduced last year in June and was released to the market one month later in July, rocking Android 5.0 Lollipop OS out of the box, sprinkled with the OEMs proprietary user interface EMUI 3.1 on top. The good news for owners of the Huawei Honor 7 is that the Chinese smartphone maker has already announced its intentions to update the smartphones software to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. This already happened earlier in February in certain parts of the world including India, and more recently Huawei confirmed that Android 6.0 is officially on its way towards the European model.

The news broke late last week through the official @HonorEU Twitter page. The manufacturer informed its followers that Android 6.0 Marshmallow is ready for an OTA (over-the-air) release across Europe, which means the update will expand its reaches gradually. As is the case with most OTA releases in large regions, not all the terminals will receive the OTA notification at once. Instead, some Huawei Honor 7 units will receive the update ahead of others, but owners of the device eager to get their hands on Android 6.0 Marshmallow can try to trigger the update manually from the devices settings menu. In any case, assuming that the update includes the same addition as the software package released in India last month (and most likely it does), Huawei Honor 7 users can look forward to a wide variety of changes. First and foremost, Android 6.0 Marshmallow is also accompanied by a new version of the proprietary UI, namely EMUI 4.0. The new user interface includes a Professional mode for the camera application, various additions for the Gallery application including a handful of filters as well as the ability to change an images font size and location, and a new Smart group function for the Contacts application, just to name a few.

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Although the Huawei Honor 7 may no longer need an introduction for some gadget enthusiasts, in a nutshell, the smartphone can be described as an upper-mid-range smartphone with a friendly price. It carries a 5.2-inch IPS LCD display covered in Corning Gorilla Glass 3 featuring a resolution of 1920 x 1080, a HiSilicon Kirin 935 SoC concealing four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and an additional quad-core Cortex-A53-based CPU operating at frequencies of up to 1.5 GHz, 3 GB of RAM, and a Mali-T628 MP4 graphics chip. Photography enthusiasts rely on a 20 MP main camera complemented by a dual-LED two-tone flash, and an 8 MP front-facing unit.
As many of you know, LG has introduced the companys new flagship during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona last month, the LG G5. With the G5, LG offers a significantly different approach to a smartphone compared to their previous flagships. Unlike those phones, the G5 is an all-metal unit, which is semi-modular, its bottom chin is removable and can be used to fit in different modules (camera module, audio module, etc.). On top fo all that, LG has opted not to include all physical buttons on the back of the G5, theyve placed the physical volume rocker keys on the left-hand side of the device instead.

That being said, the LG G5 will go on sale really soon, and along with it, youll get the all-new Marshmallow-based LG UX 5.0. This is the new version of LGs Android-based UI, and even though its quite similar to the previous iteration of LGs skin, the company did improve a number of things, and theyve also added new features, as expected. We analyzed the lifestyle of smartphone users to provide a superior mobile experience and greatly expanded the usability with LG UX 5.0. LG UX 5.0 and G5 were designed to provide an innovative user experience that reflects the needs of our most demanding customers, said Juno Cho, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company.

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Now, LG is highlighting the LG Friends Manager as the UX 5.0s most important new feature. This part of the OS will basically let you connect and control your modules and accessories which LG is calling LG Friends. The LG Friends Manager will detect nearby accessories and will pair them with your phone by installing the necessary apps from the Google Play Store. The whole process is automated and streamlined, which makes it quite convenient. Let me give you an example, if you connect the LG 360 CAM to the G5, the phone will display photo preview and the available shooting models. Now, this is not the only new features in the UX 5.0, LG has included a number of camera-centric features here in order to make it better than ever, according to the company. You can switch between the 78-degree and 135-degree wide-angle lens on the phone with a tap of a button, which basically switches your view from the 13-megapixel, to 8-megapixel snapper (one of which is a wide-angle lens), both of which are located on the back of the phone. Auto Shot (Gesture Shot), Multi View, 360 Wallpaper, Pop-out Picture and Film Effect are just one of the available options in LGs camera software on the G5.

The company has also added a number of other features throughout the UX, like the New Home feature, for example. This basically removes the app drawer, and combines your Home Screen with the App Drawer, which essentially throws all of your apps on the home screen, which creates and experience similar to the one on Apples iOS UI. The LG Health app got various improvements, and the Always-On display is a part of the UX now as well. Smart Doctor will keep your phone running on optimal conditions (will give you tips), while the File Manager got much improved as well. Same can be said for the LG Backup service, and LGs security methods, while the World Clock now offers an enhanced user interface.
The first time Samsung treated one of its Galaxy flagship phones with waterproof capabilities was back in 2013 with the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S4 Active variant, which was released roughly two months following the standard models debut. Since then, the Active series kept on coming back year after year, and even in 2014 when the standard Samsung Galaxy S5 was released with an IP67 certificate out of the box. Needless to say, rumors have it that Samsung is now planning to launch an Active variant based on the Samsung Galaxy S7 as well, and interestingly enough, the Korean company seems to have spilled the beans on the existence of a so-called Samsung Galaxy S7 Active in the description of one of its official applications available on the Google Play Store.

At the moment, theres no official word on Samsungs intentions to release a Galaxy S7 Active, but oddly enough, the moniker was mentioned by the Korean company in the Google Play Store description of one of its applications, namely Samsung Level. The application is designed to work in conjunction with Samsung Level Bluetooth devices and offers additional features including SoundAlive, Text-To-Speech, and Volume Monitor. More importantly, the list of supported devices includes a wide variety of Samsung smartphones, ranging from the Samsung Galaxy S3 and Galaxy J series to the Samsung Galaxy Note 5 and the latest Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge flagships. It also mentions a smartphone that doesnt officially exist (yet), namely the Galaxy S7 Active.

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This isnt the first time the idea of a Samsung Galaxy S7 Active being in the works reaches the headlines. Last week prolific leakster @evleaks mentioned in one of his Tweets that the Galaxy S7 Active will carry model number SM-G891A, adding that the smartphone is currently referred to by the codename Poseidon. Evidently, the fact that the Samsung Galaxy S7 Active has now been mentioned in the description of one of Samsungs applications in the Google Play Store lends more credibility to the rumors, and the only thing missing is an official announcement. In any case, if the Samsung Galaxy S7 Active will hit the market in the US, chances are that it will do so primarily through AT&T, on the basis that the aforementioned carrier has always been eager to offer Samsungs Active variants in its stores.
Big technology names out of Japan such as Panasonic, Sharp and Sony have been around for over a hundred years (in the case of Sharp, at least) and while theyve adapted and become big players in the evolving tech industry, some of them have started to struggle. Where Panasonic is concerned, with a slowing TV business and a sluggish smartphone business only operating in parts of Asia and Sonys PlayStation business is keeping their money coming in. Sharp Corporation meanwhile, the Japanese juggernaut thats been going since 1912, has been struggling and a deal with Taiwans Foxconn  famous for putting together much of Apples portfolio  is rumored to be closer than ever to achieving a takeover for the company.

Sharp might be known by many as a high-profile manufacturer of TVs and the odd smartphone here and there, but in Japan the brand is a household name associated with the quirkier side of consumer electronics. For Foxconn, a takeover of Sharp could help be able to produce and sell products directly to consumers using the Sharp brand, rather than relying on other brands to make their money. The deal between the two has evolved over time and sources see Foxconn cutting their 489 billion yen ($4.3 billion) bid by as much as 100 billion yen. The newly issued shares in the company are how Foxconn hopes to take control of the company, and should the deal go through it would mark the biggest takeover of a Japanese technology firm by a foreign company.

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While news of the reduced bid came through last week, word that the two were very close to sealing the deal came out over the weekend. Sharp chose to negotiate and work on a takeover deal with Foxconn instead of a government-backed fund, which could mark the first time that a Japanese technology company has become willing to become owned by a foreign company. Regardless of what happens next, this could have a big impact on the sector overall, and could help spur on growth in the technology sector throughout Asia. At the very least, it could help Foxconn become a more independent company, deciding what to make and what to sell itself, rather than just doing the work of other companies.
Where social media networks are concerned, the amount of eyeballs and for how long these eyeballs stick are important statistics. After all, you could have millions upon millions of registered users, but that doesnt mean that theyre active and using the service. Without figures that investors and advertizers can understand and use, a social network such as Snapchat will struggle to attract new business. Luckily for Snapchat, they have no such problems, and the service has become more and more popular over the past couple of years. In a new report  commissioned by the yellow app themselves  from Nielsen, Snapchat has some impressive metrics that should wow more than a few investors and advertizers to part with their cash.

Of Snapchats roughly 100 Million active users, 60% create new content and share with others, while the majority of users spend roughly 25  30 minutes on average every day on the service. Thats an impressive metric on its own, but when the same Nielsen report goes on to say that 41% of all 18 to 34 year olds living in the United States are reached by Snapchat, its clear that theyve hit the big time. This pales to the 6% of the same demographic reached by the Top 15 TV stations in the US. These  as well as other figures  are said to be part of a pitch put together by Snapchat to attract new advertizers and position itself as an alternative to the traditional TV spot. These are statistics put together by Nielsen back iN February and might not be 100% up-to-date, but if anything these go to show that Snapchat must be doing something right.

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Many Snapchat users will be unhappy to hear that the firm is turning more to advertizing, but considering that the app is free, the company needs to make money somehow. Snapchat is now looking towards the big money that advertizers would traditionally throw at the big TV networks, but those new statistics might not paint the whole picture and many firms will be wary of advertizing with Snapchat, a relative unknown in the world of mainstream media. While Twitter is used in conjunction with Live TV and sporting events to great effect, its unclear whether or not Snapchat can become the same.
Most tier-1 Android vendors are either done rolling out Android Marshmallow to their premium handsets or are in the process of doing so as we speak. Sony too, is one such Android manufacturer that started rolling out Marshmallow earlier this month to a number of its premium smartphones and tablets from the past couple of years or so. While the arrival of Android 6.0 was supposed to be good news for Xperia device owners, it now seems that at least some of them are facing serious reliability and stability issues after updating their respective devices to the latest software issued officially by the Japanese consumer electronics giant. That being the case, Sony Mobile Canada has officially sent out a tweet informing its customers that it has now stopped its OTA Marshmallow rollout temporarily for the Xperia Z5 and Xperia Z5 Premium.

According to reports, one of the most common bugs that seems to be affecting the Xperia Z5 line of devices after Marshmallow update, is the crashing of widely used apps like the Google Play Store. While Sony initially issued an official advisory on how to tackle the problem, the company has since withdrawn its Marshmallow roll out indefinitely, as mentioned already. According to the initial advisory, users were urged to re-install the Android system after clearing out the Play Store data and disabling location services in order to fix the issue. However, with more and more people pouring into the official Sony Xperia forums complaining that the officially-recommended fix isnt working for them, Sony Canada has now been forced to react.

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While some early reports claimed that a factory-reset solved all the issues with the un-responsive Google Play Store app, some users have written back claiming that even the supposed workaround has failed to work for them. Its worth mentioning at this stage that while complaints against the Marshmallow update have come from Xperia Z5 and Xperia Z5 Premium users in many parts of the world, only in Canada has the rollout been officially stopped by Sony until now. Its not yet known if the Japanese company intends to stop its Marshmallow rollout globally, but well hopefully get more news on the issue in the days and weeks to come.
Teenage baby snatchers sentenced for Facebook plot

A shocking story on the Suns cover about a plot to steal a baby. Shantel Ullah, 20, says a teenager knocked on her front door posing as a social worker and tried to abduct son Dontae. Over pages 4 and 5 we read that Shantel handed the two-week-old child over but snatched him back when the smartly dressed teen began to act oddly.

The teenager then walked away.

We learn that the would-be kidnappers obtained Shantels details through a Facebook page offering new mums free baby clothes. And that the two girls age 17 and 18 have admitted conspiring to kidnap Dontae and two other babies. One, we learn, wanted a mixed-race bay to convince her Jamaican lover she had given birth to his son.

The pair pleaded guilty to conspiring to kidnap at Derby youth court. And they cant be named because they are under age.

Whats a bit odd is why the Sun should put this on its front page? The entire story appeared in the Derby Telegraph, which tells us, They were caught after the Normanton mother of Baby U called the police on September 21. Whereas the Sun says the baby was snatched balk, the local paper puts it: The woman then asked to hold her baby and did so before handing it back.

Detective Sergeant Duncan Gouck, who oversaw the investigation, said: It was very harrowing in terms of what could have happened  considering how young the babies were  and the impact on the families could have been immense. The team of officers worked tirelessly on it and we put everything else on hold. The defendants were arrested within a week of the report. Det Sgt Gouck said: We dont think the intention was to have all three babies but they were trying to select different targets. The conspiracy involved Facebook. They set up a fake profile, which they used to contact the mothers. Their plan was to gain the trust of the mothers so they could get their contact details. Were not 100% sure how they identified who the new mothers were. All the mothers received a friend request from the profile and subsequent messages offering free baby clothes, presumably with the intention of getting their addresses and contact details from them. The defendants first target had been Baby W, in Huddersfield. However, this never moved beyond contact on Facebook. Next was the Derby case and then the baby in Wolverhampton. In this latter case, the mother became suspicious after being contacted on Facebook and did not engage with the defendants.

Its a strange story.

Anorak

Posted: 28th, March 2016 | In: Reviews Comment | TrackBack | Permalink
Mainstreaming gender equality and womens empowerment is at the heart of APECs inclusiveness agenda,

Earlier in 2016, a bill seeking to expand maternity benefits for women in the private sector passed unopposed in the Philippine Senate. It sought to increase paid maternity leave from 60-100 days regardless of mode of birth. This is important to note because in the Philippines, normal delivery has less maternity leave entitlement compared to surgical birth. While awaiting final passage into a law, this development is hailed as one that promotes over-all wellness for mothers performing both maternal and economic roles.

APEC, whose core agenda is regional economic integration, considers gender inclusion as an important part of its work. While the past decades have shown progress in mainstreaming gender-related issues in the region, opportunities to widen this reach remain.

Informing policy by raising awareness on the status of women in society is one of the aims of the Women and the Economy Dashboard, a facility developed by APEC that includes 80 indicators of womens legal, political, educational, financial, and technology-access status in the region.

The Dashboard is used to monitor and track barriers to womens economic participation. By enabling direct comparisons between different economies, it helps policymakers identify which economies have been more successful in certain women-related areas, and encourages economies to learn from best practices.

Mainstreaming gender equality and womens empowerment is at the heart of APECs inclusiveness agenda, says Emmeline L. Verzosa, chair of the APECs women and economy arm in 2015. The Dashboard is a concrete tool to measure progress on the advancement of women in their economic pursuits  and the Dashboard will show the progress APEC economies are making."

The fact that leaders recognize the Dashboard shows a high level of commitment to collect data and use the tool, she explains.

According to Verzosa, the Dashboard will provide the framework that APEC economies need to create and introduce individual action plans over the next five years.

By providing governments and civil society groups with comparative data, we can help APEC member economies develop their own set of aspirational and measurable goals, she says. With working groups and policy partnerships taking a gender perspective, we hope to see more women entrepreneurs levelling up the global value chain.

Philippines leads APECs female empowerment

Developed by Huani Zhu and Carlos Kuriyama of the APEC Policy Support Unit, the Dashboard contains 22 individual report cards  one for each economy  including one for the APEC region as a whole. It aggregates economies own data with information published by multiple global organisations, including the United Nations, the World Bank, the International Labour Organisation, the World Economic Forum and the World Health Organisation.

By adopting the Dashboard as an instrument to measure progress, APEC has explicitly linked a societal challenge to an economic opportunity.

Last year, APECs agenda highlighted issues concerning the need for inclusive growth as part of economic development. As a result, this thematic direction included measures to promote gender-related issues, especially in the context of small- and medium-sized enterprises says Kuriyama.

Kuriyama points out that the Philippines, chair of APEC 2015, is an ideal supporter of the initiative given its record in lowering gender barriers. According the World Economic Forum Index, the Philippines is Asias leader in closing the gender gap. A survey by the Asian Institute of Management reveals that women are either owners or managers of 63 per cent of Philippines businesses.

Across-the-board reporting, with global data

To aid research, the indicators are arranged into five principal areas where women face obstacles: access to capital and assets; access to markets; skills, capacity-building and health; leadership, voice and agency; and innovation and technology. By drawing on historical data, the Dashboard already shows which of these areas present the biggest challenges to APEC economies.

The Dashboard reveals some fascinating statistics, says Zhu. For example, it shows that while 59 per cent of women aged over 15 were economically active between 2008 and 2013, only 38.5 per cent possessed a savings account with a financial institution. This means more efforts are needed to increase womens access to financial services and womens participation in the formal labor market.

Also, female participation in leadership is generally low, she continues. For instance, womens participation at the highest levels of political decision making and in other positions of influence in media, judiciary and academia is low.

Biggest challenges: access to labour markets and long-term careers

The Dashboard highlights obvious opportunities for reforms in the labor market. In particular, Kuriyama points out a wide variance in legal safeguards that protect womens ability to advance their own careers.

Its clear that men and woman generally do not have equal access to labour markets, and the Dashboard allows us to identify specific inadequacies, he says. Only half of APEC legal systems guarantee women the right to do the same jobs as men. Almost half of APEC economies fail to make non-discrimination a statutory obligation during the hiring process.

The Dashboard also reports on the specific measures APEC economies adopt to enable women to pursue careers and reach leadership positions. These include legal protections for employees who become mothers.

Eleven economies give women legal rights to an equivalent position when returning from maternity leave, reports Kuriyama. However, in only seven economies is equal remuneration for men and woman doing work of equal value a legal right, and just three prohibit employers from inquiring about family status during a job interview.

A springboard for practical empowerment

By aggregating data on womens economic engagement, and placing it into a comparative framework, APEC is creating a robust, impartial reference point that can inform policy, stimulate debate, and monitor progress.

It allows each economy to compare its status to that of neighbouring economies, adds Verzosa. Internally, leaders can use the results to take action. The Dashboard provides advocacy groups with the data they need to frame proposals and make a persuasive case for change.

As the Dashboard gains traction across the region, Kuriyama believes that it will become more comprehensive, and therefore progressively more useful.

Besides spurring action, the Dashboard acts as a catalyst for data-gathering, he says. With better data, we can build a more comprehensive view of womens economic engagement across all APEC economies, which will ultimately help policymakers who seek to build a more inclusive society.





For more information:

Ma. Lizbeth Barona-Edra | [email protected]

Photo credit:

Tran Trung Hoa, Viet Nam

Photo credit: Tran Trung Hoa, Viet Name
Pacific Rim economies exposure to the increasing threat of natural disasters has provided impetus for governments and the private sector to jointly address the need for more robust financial safeguards in the region.

Finance officials from the 21 APEC member economies, the worlds most disaster affected region, ramped up their collaboration to improve risk assessments and insurance coverage during meetings that just concluded in Lima. Focus was on narrowing gaps in data gathering and financial protection needed to build economic resiliency among them, boosted by policy inputs from disaster risk experts from the OECD, the World Bank and industry.

About two-thirds of reported disaster losses in APEC economies are uninsured on average and vulnerabilities in the regions developing economies are even more severe, noted Gregorio Belaunde, Director of Risk Management at the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Peru, who guided the proceedings. Quantifying disaster risk exposure is a prerequisite for reducing financial protection gaps which APEC is working to facilitate as climate change raises the stakes. It also helps to reduce physical disaster risk.

APEC economies collectively account for about 3 billion people, half of global trade, 60 per cent of total GDP and much of the worlds growth. They also experience more than 70 per cent of all natural disasters such as earthquakes as well as typhoons, floods, mudslides and droughts that are increasing in frequency and intensity as a result of climate change. Significantly, APEC economies incurred over USD 100 billion annually in related losses over the last decade.

Officials pinpointed the components of disaster risk as well as the technical requirements for model development and data gathering necessary to accurately assess them, drawing on best practices and case studies from the public and private sectors. They also shared real world lessons and guidance for creating systems that bring insurance companies together to form catastrophe insurance pools that can rapidly boost insurance penetration.

Governments have a crucial role to play in the longterm sustainability of the disaster insurance system but there also has to be a good balance of burden sharing with the industry, explained Belaunde. The introduction of catastrophe insurance pools is a proven way of expanding insurance coverage, especially for homes, and can do the same for small businesses if these measures are designed and implemented appropriately.

A low or uninclusive insurance culture, fear of insurers and a lack of sustained support from policymakers and from the financial system are challenges that Peru and other economies around the region must work out as they pursue new disaster insurance schemes, he concluded, adding that this is one piece of a larger puzzle. A comprehensive disaster risk management package shaped by public-private engagement and a stronger role for insurance and banking regulators, which supports the development and delivery of insurance as one of of the main measures for mitigating disaster risk, should be the ultimate goal.

Emergency management officials from APEC economies will take complementary steps to strengthen disaster preparedness and risk reduction when they meet in Lima as part of a cluster of technical working group meetings from 20 February-4 March.

# # #

For further details, or to arrange possible media interviews with APEC officials, please contact:

David Hendrickson +65 9137 3886 at [email protected]

Michael Chapnick +65 9647 4847 at [email protected]

More on APEC meetings, events, projects and publications can be found on. You can also follow APEC onand join us onand
Consumer protection in the Asia-Pacific has gotten an important boost with Japan becoming a fully operational participant in the landmark APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules system. The move stands to improve the security of personal data moved around the region by businesses pursuing new growth opportunities.

The 21 APEC member economies have approved the Japan Institute for Promotion of Digital Economy and Community as an Accountability Agent whose role is to independently assess the compliance of firms under the APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules system. Accountability Agents serve to ensure that the privacy measures used by participant companies in the system transferring personal data across borders are sufficiently robust.

The voluntary, certification-based system promotes a consistent baseline set of data privacy practices for companies doing business in participating APEC economies. It reduces their compliance costs while facilitating secure, protected data flows that they increasingly rely upon to operate and growranging from apps, cloud computing and email, to biometrics, GPS information and online purchases of goods and services.

Trusted, widely embraced practices for protecting personal data are vital to allow the data flows upon which commerce depends, said Ted Dean, Chair of the APEC Electronic Commerce Steering Group, which administers the initiative. The APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules system is meeting this need. APECs approval of a new Accountability Agent will support the systems implementation in Japan and its expansion across the region.

Businesses under the APEC Cross Border Privacy Rules system are required to develop their own procedures for safeguarding data and protecting privacy as they transmit it across borders. These must comply with minimum requirements based on a set of commonly agreed upon rules known as the APEC Privacy Framework and be verified by assessment and certification from an Accountability Agent.

Approval of the Japan Institute for Promotion of Digital Economy and Community as an Accountability Agent in Japan was reached by the Joint Oversight Panel of the APEC Electronic Commerce Steering Group. The approval comes two years after Japan joined the APEC Cross Border Privacy Rules system, in 2014. Other APEC economies that have been admitted to the system to date include the United States (2012), Mexico (2013) and Canada (2015). All 21 APEC member economies have committed to participation in the system.

The progress of the APEC Cross Border Privacy Rules system and complementary efforts to enhance the free flow of data as a driver of growth is a focus of officials from the APEC Electronic Commerce Steering Group who are convening in Lima, Peru as part of a cluster of key APEC policy meetings taking place through next week.

# # #

For further details, or to arrange possible media interviews with APEC officials, please contact:

David Hendrickson (in Lima) +65 9137 3886 at [email protected]

Michael Chapnick +65 9647 4847 at [email protected]

More on APEC meetings, events, projects and publications can be found on www.apec.org. You can also follow APEC on Twitter and join us on Facebook and LinkedIn.




Within an open and competitive market framework, the concepts of quality growth and human development support the continuity, sustainability and legitimacy of APECs core work, and help drive the next frontier of growth in the Asia-Pacific region, said the Chair of the APEC Senior Officials during a dialogue with the private sector in San Francisco.

Acknowledging the downside risk for the Asia-Pacific in view of a regional economic forecast, Ambassador Luis Quesada described the priorities for 2016 to the APEC Business Advisory Council who are meeting in the home to the worlds leading technology hub. He discussed what APEC Senior Officials expect for the outomes of this year and explained how ABAC could help ensure delivery of ambitious and commercially relevant outcomes by taking the opportunity to ask for private sector input into the policymaking process. Recognising the integral role of business, ABAC was established to provide private sector advice on key issues to to APEC members.

Senior officials acknowledged that the regions economy is less robust than what it was 6 months ago due to commodity prices that remain under pressure. The region is vulnerable to externalites related the EU crisis and strains in some large emerging market economies that have lead to a tightening in financial markets. Falling oil prices are hurting energy producers in several economies, but ultimately will assist energy importers. Despite these challenges, the regions economy is forecast to grow, albeit at a slower rate than what was forecast last year.

Quality growth is really about supporting balanced, inclusive, sustainable, innovative, and secure growth across the region, through investments in education, technology, services and innovation that drive social and economic progress, Quesada when he explained the APEC 2016 to stakeholders here. And human development, on the other hand, goes beyond growth measured exclusively in uantitative terms, incorporating broader considerations of social and environmental progress and sustainability.

Ambassador Quesada called on the business community to support APEC economies in submitting ambitious and commercially relevant reforms to help drive the regions next era of quality growth.

This year, APEC economies will submit their respective individual action plans outlining their structural reform plans through to 2020, said Quesada. Many of the most needed structural reforms will require the input and support from the private sector to identify and remove impediments to trade, improve regulations and unlock new sources of growth.

Open well-functioning, transparent and competitive food markets are essential to regional food security, allowing food to move where it is needed and thereby ensuring access to a broad, predictable, continuous and sufficient supply of safe and nutritious food at affordable prices.

Quesada requested the busines community to provide a catalogue of the most onerous non-tariff barriers for food products in the Asia  Pacific. In this context, he asked ABAC for its input on how to address trade restrictions to unlock new growth potential for food producers  most of which are SMEs.

I would encourage you to have the draft catalogue ready for consideration by economies by August to ensure we have time to digest its implications, discuss possible responses at the Policy Partnership on Food Security meeting and seek ministerial endorsement at the Food Security Ministerial Meeting, he said.

With a large number of high tech companies participating, the Ad Hoc Steering Group on the Internet Economy convened to discuss issues related to the Internet and digital economy and propose cooperative activities, projects and initiatives. In particular, they looked at an analysis of how services trade and investment is being impacted by new technologies.

I invite you all to support member economies active participation in APECs services roadmap discussions this year to help drive the next phase of quality growth in the region, Quesada concluded.

At the conclusion of a cluster of policy meetings held in Lima over the last two weeks, APEC Senior Officials will meet on 3-4 March to prioritize the agenda in preparation for the Leaders Meeting in November.

# # #

For further details, or to arrange possible media interviews with APEC officials, please contact:

David Hendrickson (in Lima) +65 9137 3886 at [email protected]

Michael Chapnick (in San Francisco) +65 9647 4847 at [email protected]

More on APEC meetings, events, projects and publications can be found on www.apec.org. You can also follow APEC on Twitter and join us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

during the first APEC Business Advisory Council meeting in San Francsico, home to the worlds leading tech hub
Prioritizing both domestic and regional economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region by taking focusing the work of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) in 2016 on promoting an integrated approach to economic and policy collaboration. ABAC concluded its first meeting in San Francisco as they prepare to develop recommendations to be presented to APEC Leaders in November in Lima for their annual summit.

APEC Business Leaders and Senior Officials from APEC Economies took advantage of the vibrant technology environment in Silicon Valley to learn about how technology can foster economic growth. They participated in an Executive Forum, convened their working groups, and visited Facebook, Google, Paypal and Dolby. Our sessions culminated with an Hour of Code presented by Microsoft, highlighting the shared commitment of the ABAC members to addressing the critical issue of STEM education. The Digital issues permeated the discussion. We have agreed one primary focus of ABACs work during the coming year will be to fully explore the opportunities and challenges presented by new and emerging technologies and to arrive at a concerted set of recommendations from the business community in the APEC region, said Juan Raffo, ABAC 2016 chair.





With Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) accounting for 97% of enterprises and up to 90% of employment in individual APEC economies, ABAC will also develop strong recommendations on how they can participate in and take advantage of the digital revolution. ABAC will address barriers that hinder broader participation of MSMEs in cross-border trade, including the role of digital and physical infrastructure. This has implications across many industries engaged in global production. We will leverage e-commerce and recommend steps to enhance their access to finance.





Rule of law, an integral part of the overall business environment, will be part of our agenda throughout the year. We hope that the business community will be able to provide valuable insight to inform policy makers in their efforts to develop and enforce a more transparent, efficient and integrated Asia Pacific region, said Mr. Raffo.





In addition, after the latest developments on regional FTAs, ABAC will focus great part of the discussions on achieving the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP). Conditions are ripe for APEC to further progress the FTAAP, a notch up with significant developments in the pathways." said Raffo. The TPP negotiations have been successfully concluded while those in RCEP are ongoing. The Pacific Alliance is in full swing and is undergoing further deepening. The early ratification by member governments of the TPP will provide the impetus for region-wide integration and hopefully spur RCEP to adopt a more aggressive timetable."







ABAC was created by APEC Leaders in 1995 to be the primary voice of business in APEC. In 2016, Under Perus leadership ABAC is pursuing a work program under the theme Quality Growth and Human Development to respond to the challenge of maintaining the economic vitality of the Asia-Pacific Region and ensure it benefits all. There will be four tracks: consolidating progress towards the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific; facilitating MSME development through access to global markets and new technologies; promoting economic growth, diversification and sustainability; and strengthening the rule of law and economic and social sustainability.





ABAC 2016 co-chairs are Hoang Van Dung and Doris Ho, with five (5) working group chairs, namely: Sir Rod Eddington, Regional Economic Integration Working Group (REIWG); Hiroyuki Suzuki, Finance & Economics Working Group (FEWG); Dato Rohana Tan Sri Mahmood, MSME & Entrepreneurship Working Group (SMMEEWG); Bart Peterson, Sustainable Development Working Group; and Anthony Nightingale, Connectivity Working Group (CWG).





For further information please contact:





Ms. Jessica Luna, ABAC Executive Director 2016, Tel: (511) 625 7700




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At the Regina Caeli, the Pope denounces the terrorist attack in Pakistan, that killed 72 and wounded 350 "mostly families from the Christian minority." Prayers for the victims and a call on authorities "to make every effort to restore security and tranquility to the population and, in particular, the most vulnerable religious minorities". The joy of Easter is because "life has conquered death." "If Christ is risen, we can look with new eyes and hearts at every event of our lives, even to the most negative.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - An "appalling attack, in which so many innocent people were massacred" is how Pope Francis today condemned yesterdays attack in Lahore, that left 72 dead and 350 wounded.

The victims, the Pope continued, are "for the most part families of the Christian minority - especially women and children - gathered in a public park to spend the Easter holidays in joy".

The condemnation of this latest episode of terrorist violence followed the recitation of the Regina Caeli, the Marian prayer that replaces the Angelus during the Easter season, with the pilgrims in St. Peter's Square.

The pope added: "I wish to express my closeness to all those affected by this cowardly and senseless crime, and invite you to pray the Lord for the many victims and their loved ones. I appeal to the civil authorities and to all the social components of that nation, to do everything possible to restore security and tranquility to the population and, in particular, the most vulnerable religious minorities. I repeat once again that violence and murderous hatred only lead to pain and destruction; respect and fraternity are the only way to achieve peace. May the Easter of the Lord inspire in us, ever stronger, prayer to God to stay the hands of the violent who sow terror and death, so that love, justice and reconciliation may reign in the world".

Earlier, Pope Francis once again focused on the meaning of "Easter joy." "Life - he said - has conquered death. Mercy and love won over sin! There is need for faith and hope to open this wonderful new horizon. Let us be pervaded by emotions that resonate in the Easter sequence: "Yes, we are certain: Christ is truly Risen". This truth indelibly marked the lives of the apostles after the Resurrection, who again felt the need to follow their Master and received the Holy Spirit, fearlessly going out to proclaim to everyone what they had seen with their own eyes and personally experienced".

"In this Jubilee Year - he continued - we are called to rediscover and to welcome the comforting announcement of the resurrection with particular intensity: "Christ, my hope, is Risen. " If Christ is risen, we can look with new eyes and hearts at every event of our lives, even the most negative. The moments of darkness, of failure and sin can be transformed and announce a new journey. When we reached the bottom of our misery and our weakness, the Risen Christ gives us the strength to get up. If we rely on Him, His grace saves us! The Crucified and Risen Lord is the full revelation of mercy, present and active in history. This is the Easter message that still resonates today and that will resonate throughout the Easter season until Pentecost".

"The silent Witness of the events of the passion and resurrection of Jesus - he concluded - was Mary. She was standing next to the cross: she did not crumble beneath her pain, but her faith made her stronger. In her broken mothers heart has always been on the flame of hope. We ask her to help us also to fully accept the Easter proclamation of the resurrection, to embody it in the reality of our daily lives.

May the Virgin Mary give us the certainty of faith that suffered every step of our journey, illuminated by the light of Easter, will become a blessing and joy for us and for others, especially for those who suffer because of selfishness and indifference. Let us invoke her, then, with faith and devotion, with the Regina Caeli".

In conclusion, the pontiff invited everyone present to repeat three times a phrase from the liturgy: "Christ, my hope, is risen!" and he called on the faithful to pick up a bible and read the Easter story during the coming days.
by Kamran Chaudhry

Attack on the Gulshan-i-Iqbal amusement park by four terrorists; three fled, one blew himself up. His name was Muhammad Yousaf, twenty, educated in an Islamic school in Lahore. Christians and Muslims donate blood for the wounded. Director of Justice and Peace: "Its like in Syria." Lahore priest: Terrorists choose soft targets to ca greatest number of deaths in the shortest possible time.

Lahore (AsiaNews) - This morning the city of Lahore seems deserted, with markets and schools closed in solidarity with the victims of yesterdays suicide attack, which caused 72 victims, mostly women and children, and 350 injured.

The spokesman for Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan off-shoot Jamaat ul Ahrar, Ehansullah Ehsan, claimed responsibility for the attack and stated: "We wanted to attack Christians who were celebrating Easter."

In fact this year, the Punjab government recognized Easter Sunday as a holiday from work and many Christian families from the suburbs had taken the opportunity to visit Lahore, or visit Gulshan-e-Iqbal park, the place of attack, in the area adjacent to children's amusement park, where there were also Muslim families and their young children.

Lahore priest Fr. Morris Jalal, confirms that "many Christians were killed" and states: "Instead of difficult and hard targets [military barracks, etc.], the terrorists now aim at soft targets. They use suicide bombs to cause as many victims as possible as quickly as possible ".

Fr Emmanuel Yousaf Mani, director of the National Justice and Peace Commission, said: "We are in a situation similar to that in Syria. The terrorists are followers of a religion of terror. They spare neither Christians nor Muslims. They think they have license to even kill families and children.

Since yesterday evening, the hospitals of the city are crowded with the families of those killed and injured. An elderly Muslim woman, who lost her 21 year old son and daughter in law, curses: "What will happen to the attacker on the day of judgment? Will he be forgiven in the presence of Allah? May God give us the strength to take revenge on that day! May we be allowed to obscure their faces. "

Arif Masih, a young Christian who was at the park with his family, said: " There was blood and bodies everywhere, it was devastating, I almost fainted ". A Christian woman, Asma Masih in tears, still does not know anything about what happened to his children: "my whole world has ended, the children insisted to come to the park to enjoy themselves, now I cannot find them, I have lost everything".

The police chief of Lahore, Haider Ashraf, said that about 20 kg of explosives were used in the attack, that there were four terrorists; three managed to escape, one blew himself up.

According to preliminary data, it is Muhammad Yousaf, 22-25 years old, son of a vegetable vendor from Muzaffargarh (Punjab), who has spent some time in a madrassa [Islamic school] in Lahore.

Many people, Christians and Muslims, are visiting hospitals to donate blood for the injured, showing their will to stand united against extremism. There are also people who are critical of the lack of security personnel and are insisting that the government deploy special forces [rangers].

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visited the Lahore hospitals and the injured, promising an all-out fight against terrorists. The Government of Punjab has announced three days of mourning.

(Jibran Khan collaborated)
The recent attacks on lawyers and judges in Turkey have been condemned by the Law Council of Australia . Nine lawyers were arrested in their homes on 16 March, they were all known to represent minority groups and those accused of crimes against the state. Colleagues of the lawyers were attacked by riot police at a press conference the following day.Law Council of Australia president Stuart Clark AM said the attacks were extremely worrying and wants the Australian government to make its position clear to the Turkish authorities.The Law Council of Australia has arranged a meeting with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and we will be urging engagement with senior representatives of the Turkish Government in a private and public capacity, he said.Mr Clark called for the protection of rights of lawyers to carry out their work unhindered.A court in the US has convicted a woman who posed as a licensed lawyer but never qualified or even attended a law school. Kimberly Kitchen was found guilty of fraud, unauthorized practice of law and felony records tampering, the Wall Street Journal reports.Kitchens deception was discovered only after she had made partner at BMZ Law and spent a short time as president at the local bar association. She had spent a decade posing as a lawyer.London law firm Atkins Thomson is suing Michael Jacksons estate for an alleged U$200,000 of unpaid fees. The Hollywood Reporter says that the firm claims it has not been paid for representing Jackson in the two years before his death and has filed a lawsuit against lawyers John Branca and John McClain, the estates executors.The complaint claims that defendants have failed to honor Jacksons obligations under, and has materially breached, the agreement with Atkins, and any implied covenants therein, by failing to make the payments as required.
SUV

The company did not mention this model too much in previous years, as it focused on launching and promoting other products. However, the X7s launch date is closing in, and BMW executives have started talking about this car again.Naturally, the development department was still working on the X7 the entire time, and the car is probably finished by now, but there has not been a concept presentation to preview the X7 until now.We used a picture of the current X5 xDrive40e to illustrate this story, as the German company has not shown any recent sketches of the car, not to mention a concept car. The spyshots of X7 prototypes are not conclusive either, as the car is hidden under various other BMW bodies to conceal its design.In an interview with Automotive News , BMW brand sales chief Ian Robertson stated that the new X7 will be sold in two versions. One of them will be the already announced seven-seat X7, while the second variant will be an ultra-luxury four-seat model.The latter will cost over $100,000, and will have a distinct look, the sales boss of BMW explained. However, the ultra-luxury X7 will not surpass the $200,000 mark, and it will only represent one percent of X7 sales for the lifetime of the model.While BMWs flagship sedan, the 7 Series, shares its platform with a Rolls-Royce model, the upcoming X7 will not do the same with the next Rolls-Rolls. The latter will be built on an aluminum space-frame, while BMW will go for a monocoque solution.The ultra-luxury X7 is just a small part of BMWs plans when it comes to Grand Klasse models. These vehicles will be BMWs equivalent to the Maybach range of their arch-enemy, Mercedes-Benz. The latter is also working on a luxury SUV based on the GL, so the two German companies will battle it out on all available segments.The only segment in which BMW shares no interest with Mercedes-Benz is the pick-up truck category, in which the latter has already confirmed a new product, while BMW stated it is not planning such a vehicle.Let us remind you that BMW used to say that they would not make front-wheel drive cars or diesel M cars, so there is still a small possibility that they might call their partners at Toyota to share the Hilux platform and provide an answer to the next Mercedes-Benz pick-up truck. This assumption is only valid if the luxury pick-up truck segment that Mercedes-Benz dreams of proves to be a lucrative niche.
Mugen appears to become stronger by the year and benefitting from John McGuinness' huge TT expertise, and things can only get better. Aside from displaying noticeable changes in the shape of its bodywork, the Shindemn Go ("go" means "five" in Japanese) also appears to run with a different swingarm and a new monocoque frame.The new Shinden is said to have better aerodynamics thanks to a smaller profile, with a narrower cross-section in the front half, allowing it to cut through the air better.For 2016, Mugen added even more power as they promised, with the oil-cooled three-phase motor now capable of producing 161 hp and 154.8 lb-ft (210 Nm) of torque. The laminate-type Lithium-Ion battery delivers 370V, but there's no word yet regarding its capacity. Most likely, Mugen packed just as many cells as needed to provide energy for a fill-throttle TT lap.The weight is still 552 lb (250 kg), even though the cooling system was changed to manage the power increase and the rear suspension is now a cross-link rocker -type.Just like in 2016, Mugen will field a two-rider team with TT legend John McGuinness alongside Bruce Anstey. Though less of a "king of the Mountain" than Mr. Pint, Anstey is no stranger to success . Back in 2014, he broke the lap record. His best lap took the New Zealand native north of 130 mph, with a top average speed of 132.298 mph (221.867 km/h).Currently, the aim of electric bikes is to pass the 120 mph (193.08 km/h) mark and it looks like it will happen this summer. How much faster electric bikes can be is a question that will keep receiving new answers year after year. Enjoy the almost unsettling whizz of the Mugen Shinden Go, in the short video after the jump (the second one).[TWITTERVIDEO=https://twitter.com/TokyoMotorcycle/status/713243852782448642][TWITTERVIDEO=https://twitter.com/TokyoMotorcycle/status/713246363799040001]
NHTSA

KTM North America, Inc. does not offer too many data regarding the defect, as the investigation is still underway. Naturally, a notification schedule was not provided, either. Still, we've perused some of thedocuments associated with this recall and we saw the name of Magneti Marelli mentioned there.An official letter from KTM North America reveals that the Husqvarna TR650 Terra and TR650 Strada machines have been manufactured with fuel management system components supplied by the Italian manufacturer.Given the fact that the affected motorcycles were manufactured from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2013, we reckon that it will not be easy to track down production details. The former Husky owner, BMW Motorrad, sold the brand to one of the companies that belong to KTM CEO Stefan Pierer early in 2013, with these bikes apparently being manufactured in the middle of the transition period.Now, KTM, which owns Husqvarna, has to try to sort things out and find a quick solution to the problem. The same letter mentions that the Austrian manufacturer already contacted Magneti Marelli and BMW Motorrad to find out more about the bikes.NHTSA's papers only mention that "On affected motorcycles the engine could stall unexpectedly, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury, death and/or property damage." Also, the Administration adds that there is no identification of any warning that can occur, so basically, these bikes could simply stop functioning out of the blue.In the US, the population of affected 2013 Husqvarna TR650 Terra and TR650 Strada reaches 1,015 units, but given that these machines were sold worldwide, we can expect all the production in that period to experience the same fate.After Husqvarna was sold to KTM, the production of street models was stopped, and a new generation of road motorcycles was started, with the TR650 Terra/Strada not on the roster. The closest you get is, however, the uber-cool Husqvarna 701 Supermoto
According to a company insider, Land Rovers Special Vehicle Operations division is working on a version of the next Discovery with extreme off-road capabilities.The version is reportedly called Discovery SVX, and is expected to come to market one to one and a half years after the next Discovery is launched.As Autocar explains, the Special Vehicle Operations division at Jaguar Land Rover has three main options for enhancement when developing a new version of a car: luxury, performance, and capability. The latter would be targeted by the SVX version of the new Discovery.According to John Edwards, the SVO divisions boss, every nameplate in the Jaguar Land Rover portfolio is being examined for the Special Vehicle Operations treatment.Like other carmakers, Jaguar Land Rover has the chance to earn more money on each car by developing special versions, catering to the needs of target audiences.With these vehicles, the division could also sell bespoke ornaments, materials, and other details. Supercar makers developed this practice as a way to improve earnings without raising the starting price of each car or dramatically increasing sales.Since a dedicated division does the development, the head company can focus on other issues with the new models, ensuring that customers who want the standard package receive what they desire, while the specialists explore the other development directions available for each model in particular at the SVO.Naturally, each direction in which the division develops a model is separate from the others, ensuring the possible existence of up to three versions of the same car, along with the standard model.John Edwards expects the products they make to be popular in the Middle East, as well as in countries with extreme weather and terrain, from some areas of the United States of America to Australia and South Africa.
AMG

The pictures were taken by a collector who relied on nature to pull a rather nice diorama-like frame. The Huyra, an 1:18 scale model coming from AutoArt, is just sitting there with its butterfly doors fully open, as if its waiting for its brothers to arrive. What brothers? Were happy to remind you of them.As Paganis chief test driver Davide Testi recently revealed, the Italian automaker is preparing an even hotter version of the Huayra. This should wear the Nurburgring moniker and our spy photographers recently encountered its prototype testing in Germany.The Huayra Nurburgring wasnt just spending time on some random German Autobahn. Instead, it was spotted in the proximity ofs Affalterbach headquarters, with the engineers working to sharpen up the twin-turbo V12 at the center of the car.In its current form, the 5,980 cc unit delivers 700 hp and 737.5 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque. Of course, there are many questions to be asked here, such as how much extra torque could the current X-Trac seven-speed sequential transmission take.Until the answers arrive, you can keep yourself busy by thinking of this as some sort of pure, naturally-aspirated Pagani response to the hybrid hypercar trio coming from Ferrari, Porsche and McLaren.As for the other Huayra model, this is the Roadster. The open-air incarnation of the Huyra was supposed to land this year, but its been pushed back and thus we may have to wait until 2017 to see it. More time for that piggy bank to grow fatter.
While riding his Suzuki bike back from work in Mesa, Arizona, he found himself in the middle of a story that involved a fleeing suspect in a stolen truck, pursued by police cruisers. Stopped at an intersection, Jenkins was brutally approached by the suspect who was later identified as Joshua Michael Monigold.Monigold was driving a white truck he had stolen earlier, trying to evade his pursuers. The police went after him after he was involved in a crash, hitting a 67-year-old woman. Monigold also attempted to steal Jenkins' bike and dragged him to the ground. With the helmet still on, the veteran confronted the suspect who was trying to take off, and he managed to fend off the thief and keep his bike.The suspect went back to the truck, ignoring the two officers who were pointing their guns at him, and drove off, running the four-wheeler directly over Jenkins' prized bike, dealing some serious damage to it in the process.The cops apprehended Monigold after another leg of the pursuit, when he crashed the stolen truck and rolled it over. He is currently in a hospital to be treated for the injuries he sustained during the crash, and is expected to go to jail as soon as his condition improves. On the other hand, the woman Monigold hit is in critical condition in another hospital, reportedly with a paralysis.Jenkins appealed to a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to repair his bike. After he started the campaign and received donations, he learned that Kawasaki would give him a brand new motorcycle, as a token of gratitude for the brave example he gave.The army veteran then said that most of the donations will go towards helping the injured woman. "I'm a firm believer in karma, you get what you put out there, so I definitely don't what to be greedy and take all these donations," he added. Jenkins also plans to repair the Suzuki so that his son will use it when he grows old enough.
The New Zealand Government said it is working with Dominos to explore the possibility of testing a driverless pizza delivery unit in New Zealand.

New Zealand is one of the first countries in the world being considered for testing the autonomous pizza delivery unit named DRU, according to the government.

This is an exciting opportunity for New Zealand. DRU is an early prototype, but the fact that New Zealand is being considered as a test site shows we have the right settings to attract innovation, said Transport Minister Simon Bridges.

He added that supporting new technologies and encouraging innovation is a government priority.

Over the last 12 months Ive been actively and aggressively promoting New Zealand as a test bed for new transport technology trials. Our enabling laws and regulation means we have the ideal environment to trial all forms of technology, said Bridges. Last year we put in place a new world-class framework for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), weve reviewed the laws for driverless vehicles and we are currently reviewing Small Passenger Services settings to put New Zealand at the forefront of transport innovation. If successful, this driverless vehicle trial could open the door to many more commercial opportunities.
Photo via Wikipedia.

Federal agents arrested a former Toys "R" Us logistics director at his New Jersey home on March 22 for allegedly stealing nearly $2 million from the company with its fleet cards.

Daniel Chon, 28, was released March 23 on a $500,000 bond for the fraud scheme that occurred between May 2, 2013 and March 10, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York via NorthJersey.com.

Chon exploited the company's fleet cards, which include an eCash feature that allows a user to load funds to a card and withdraw the funds at an ATM.

During a nearly three-year period, an employee with the username Chon logged into the company's secure fleet card system and loaded the cards with eCash on 117 different occasions totaling $1.91 million.

Chon then allegedly approved payments from Toys "R" Us. In addition, about $1.88 million in eCash funds were withdrawn from ATMs in the U.S. and in Europe. Security photos show Chon completing these transactions, according to the complaint.

Cash withdrawals were made in New Jersey locations such as Franklin Lakes in Bergen County as well as in London, Madrid, and Berlin.

Authorities say Chon also deposited about $405,000 and $216,000 into checking accounts for which he was the only signatory.
The military will put F-35 Lightning II fighters on a series of summer airshow tours this year in an effort to gain some good publicity for the jet program, which has been saddled with budget and technical problems. The Air Force Heritage Flight Foundation will display the fighter during its show season, starting with Luke Air Force Bases event taking place in Arizona this weekend. The Marine Corps will take its version of the F-35 to the U.K. for the first time to take part in the Royal International Air Tattoo and Farnborough International Air Show in July.

Fortunes recent report on what it called a $400 billion image problem notes that the F-35 was originally scheduled to appear at Farnborough in 2014, but an engine fire grounded the jet amid a series of engine and operational troubles. An Air Force official told a House subcommittee last week the jet has a perception problem, Fortune reported. The public perception and the reality are so different, said Lt. Gen. Christopher Bogdan, the Pentagons F-35 program manager. Getting out there and telling the story is part of what we need to continue to do. International media have also been critical of the F-35 program as governments abroad are among its customers. An Australian news outlet reported that a military think tank used the term Ponzi scheme in telling lawmakers to reconsider plans to take delivery of up to 72 of the fighters by 2023 for $17 billion.
As part of AVwebs series on aviation innovators, we spoke with Craig Barnett, who created the company, Scheme Designers. For nearly 20 years, Craig and Scheme Designers, have been creating unique paint schemes (and, more recently, vinyl designs) for aircraft. There are now more than 11,500 airplanes flying throughout the world with paint and vinyl schemes his company devisedas well as a few copyright violators sporting copy-cat paint jobs.

His designs, ranging from astonishingly subtle to in-your-face bold are even available as options from a number of aircraft manufacturers.

In addition to creating striking paint schemes for general aviation aircraft, Barnett has been a pioneer in the technology available to transfer a paint scheme from a two-dimensional drawing into three-dimensional displays so a customer can see precisely how the airplane will look and then to provide templates to paint shops so the result matches the drawings and saves time and labor for the shop.

What is your background in aviation?

Im a civil engineer, believe it or not. I started learning to fly when I was a kidmy first logbook entry was when I was 14. I was lucky enough to come from an aviation family. My father used a Piper Aztec for his business and he also had a Spitfire. I grew up around really interesting aircraft. My father had rebuilt aircraft, so when it was time for me to begin learning to fly he picked up two crashed Cessna 150s. From those two, he built one 1964 Cessna 150E. He then proceeded to teach my sister and me to fly.

I was one of those lucky people to get my pilots license before I got my drivers license; which was a bit of a problem as I had to drive illegally to get to the airport. In South Africa, where I grew up, you couldnt get your drivers license until you were 18, but you could fly and carry passengers when you were 17logic I cant explain to this day.

When I came to the U.S. after graduating from university I went into the Internet business before there was an Internet. I also bought my first airplane, a Cessna Cardinal RG in dire need of paint.

So a lousy paint job got you into the design business?

Yes. The first week I had the Cardinal, sheets of paint came off the top of the wing, exposing another layer of paint. I spent a happy couple of months composing paint schemes for the airplane, I must have gone through over 100 designs before I was satisfied with one. Then, being an engineer, I prepared detailed engineering drawings for the paint scheme. When I arrived at the paint shop and they asked what I wanted on the airplane, I said, Heres the package, guys, have at it.

And the paint shop said, Wow, weve never seen anything like this before.

When I picked up the airplane at the shopKD Aviation, or Reese Aircraft, in New Jerseythe owner, Ken Reese, said to me, That was so easy. It was so detailed. It would be really nice, if you have time and you could help some of our clients.

I told him that I didnt know that much about it and wouldnt know what to draw. He said that theyd bought a paint software package that was so complex they couldnt use it and hed send it to me.

A year later, after Id sold my company and was looking for something to do, a box of software arrived. It was from Ken Reese. I pulled it out and played with it for a few weeks. About then, Ken called and said he had a customer with a Cessna 210 who needed help designing a paint scheme. I had no idea what to charge or what was involved. I worked with the softwaresomething that takes me a few minutes now took five hours then. I worked with the client and he was very happy with the result. From that things started to growmore and more clients were coming in and different people were hearing about me.

Initially, I was working at home, doing a few projects each month. I never thought that it could turn into a business. It was something I was doing on the side while looking for the next opportunity.

About that time a friend who parked his airplane near mine did an article about what I was doing for General Aviation Newsand they put me on the cover. As an aviation enthusiast, I thought it was amazing. But what happened next was even more amazing. Someone at Piper had read the article and called me. They were just launching the Meridian. They put the design of the Meridian paint scheme in my hands. Thats what got me started as a business.

Still, it was many years before it was a business that could support me and many more years before it could support an office. Its grown into a business that now employs eight people.

How do you view what it is you do?

The business has made an interesting mark on aviation. It doesnt make anything go faster. It doesnt make your avionics better or cause your engine to live longer. But what it does do is make people look and makes the ramps of our GA airports look prettier. Its really satisfying today to fly around the country and when I land I almost always see one my clients airplanes thereor if not one of my clients, someone who has ripped me off by copying something Ive done. Everywhere I go, I see the results of my work.

What products and services does Scheme Designers offer?

We do a number of things having to do with the look and feel of the aircraft. Our primary, core product is still expertise and knowledge in designing the exterior look of an aircraftthe paint scheme or vinyl design. What Ive developed over my years of doing this is a fairly clear set of rules in my mind as to what makes a good paint schemetricks to use to effectuate elegant, sexy lines on aircraft and to make them easy and efficient to implement in a paint shop. Its also necessary to arrive at a balanced look for an aircraft. Its very easy to make a plane look tail heavy or nose heavy just using paint. Ive developed a good methodology of balance so every plane is in good visual weight and balance.

Ive developed a design staff thats well trained in those nuances, and they dont just do designs in my style, they bring additional styles to the table. That enables us to address a wide variety of tastes.

We design a paint or vinyl scheme. The key is to engineer it down to 1/8 of an inch or one millimeter, depending on where the scheme is being painted, and being able to fully document that engineering effort to the paint shop. We have really learned to talk to the guy with tape.

Whats key is that when you look at the rendering we draw and then you look at the end product, theyre identical. Its extremely important to give paint shops the raw materials that are accurate, such as window lines on the drawing where they really are on the airplane, cowlings shaped the way they really are or that the drawing takes into account that the plane has been modified. Paint shops complain that they so often get drawings that are just plain wrong and thus its up to the guy with the tape to try in interpret what was intended and the owner doesnt wind up happy. Thats why we engineer the material we give a paint shop so carefully.

We also do a lot of factory paint schemes and were often given a very free hand to explore completely new ideas. Those ideas come out on new airplanes and those airplanes are featured in the aviation magazines. People see them and they influence how people see airplanes and visualize their own airplanes. That causes our ideas to set trends in the industry.

What trends have you set?

The primary one has been to get away from completely straight lines. From the early days of the company I looked at a paint scheme as representing airflow over an aircraft. Airflow isnt straightthats reflected in the paint schemes weve designed.

Paint shops were initially negative about the curves and said theyd never be popular. Yet, here we are 20 years later, and the trend still exists. Its hard to find a manufacturer who just puts a couple of straight lines on a new aircraft.

What else does Scheme Designers offer?

For clients who were interested in vinyl rather than paint, we design the vinyl and easy to install vinyl packages for those who want to install vinyl. That goes hand-in-hand with supplying kits of pre-cut vinyl masks. The vinyl masks create what is essentially a negative of the paint scheme. The masks are installed and the shop just paints between the lines and then removes the masks.

Laying out the masks on an airplane takes less than a day as opposed to the normal three days it takes to tape an airplane of the same size for painting. Its a matter of positioning the masks on the airplane, then peeling and painting. Its not our innovation, its a product weve become good at providing and we do so in partnership with Moody Aero-Graphics in Floridaan established company in the vinyl industry.

Using vinyl masks the customer sees a better outcome because all of the curves are perfectly built into the maskno one is hand laying in complex curves. The price is about the same as hand layout. However, for the paint shop, theres a benefit because the saving of a few days for vinyl mask versus hand layout means that the shop has the space and capability to do a few more projects in the course of a year.

We also do a lot of branding for the aircraft industry. That ranges from designing a logo for a single company airplane through entire paint schemes for new airlines around the world.

Another, newer service we offer is an efficient mechanism for developing photo-realistic renderings in a full 3-D display so clients can see how the paint scheme for their airplane is truly going to look. For many manufacturers every design we do for them includes a 3-D component.

What do you see for the future of your business?

I cant give away any trade secrets, but I can say that ever since the beginning, weve done everything on a flat-fee basis. As an aircraft owner, this is very important to me. Im always very careful when Im buying something; I want to understand what it costs. One of the traumas in aviation is that when your airplane goes behind the hangar doors for maintenance, you never know whats going to come out the other end on the billwhether its three hours or 30 hours or 100 hours to repair what it is you took it there for. I wanted to make sure that didnt happen for our clients. We do not charge an hourly rate for design. We charge a flat fee for all of the work, so an owner knows, going in, what the price will be for the design of his paint scheme. It doesnt matter how many times the owner comes back to us to make changes. Sometimes we lose big on a project, but overall it balances out. Weve sustained the flat fee model for nearly 20 years and we think clients appreciate it. We want owners to know that whether they have a Cessna 150 or Global Express, they can use us for a fee that they know up front what they are going to spend.

I think our philosophy has proved effective. Weve finished over 11,500 unique designs in 140 countries, as best as I can count. We think thats because of our pricing, the manner in which we work and our intent to provide the highest level of customer service possible for a small company. We endeavor to be as responsive as we can at all times.

The future is streamlining what we do, making it even better. Were always working with the paint manufacturers and the vinyl industry to look at new products, to come up with new innovations. As a sample, a lot of the carbon fiber aircraft have a lot of limitations on how you can and cant paint them. Were responding with a methodology and design to make sure paints remain compliant and were working closely with the big paint manufacturers who are working to come up with new products that are thermodynamically attuned to not transfer heat to the airframe when in the sun so that they can paint whatever colors they want on the airplanes. Its one of the most interesting things were working on at the momentto give owners of such airplanes as Cirrus and Diamond more artistic freedom as they design their paint schemes.

Rick Durden is the Features Editor of AVweb and the author of The Thinking Pilots Flight Manual or, How to Survive Flying Little Airplanes and Have a Ball Doing It, Vols 1 & 2.
28 March 2016 16:50 (UTC+04:00)

By Nazrin Gadimova

At a time when the Armenian president is traveling around the world to pursuade the business people to invest in his country, Moodys has made an unfavorable forecast in regards of Armenia.

Moody's Investors Service has warned the international entrepreneurs about the increased risk of investing in Armenia.

The agency downgraded Armenia's long-term issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to B1 from Ba3.

Moodys report on Armenia indeed was based on economic fluctuations in Russia, major ruler of the post Soviet nation's economy. The agency reduced the already weak indicators of Armenia, thus sending a message to international investors.

Providing the important indicators of international investments, rating agencies help investors to determine further steps in relation to a particular country.

Moodys report was an unpleasant surprise for Armenia, which needs foreign investment as ever to compensate heavy losses of its weak economy.

President Serzh Sargsyan's recent statements on the upcoming meetings in an effort to deepen external economic relations indeed testify how urgently the nation needs investments.

During the meetings held in Iran, Austria, Germany and France Sargsyan appealed to international entrepreneurs to invest in his broken-down country.

While the Armenian leader intensifies its actions to attract foreign investments, by this report the agency actually does not advise to trust the messages of Serzh Sargsyan.

The world's well known expert on economy in fact expressed political distrust in the president's actions. Furthermore, many understand that Sargsyans statements are insignificant and will not be transformed in real actions.

Of course, one does not need to be an international rating agency to conclude, understand and fix the negative figure of this ratio.

The political and economic situation remains vulnerable in Armenia, which could be described as a decay of the country. Various international organizations make unfavorable forecasts on the nation's economic situation.

The international community and local experts urge that corruption and abuse of power are the real dominating factors for such situation. Even though Armenia has made several anti-corruption efforts, the de facto situation on the ground remains very problematic.

Foreign investors completely understand economic situation in Armenia and realize a deep institutional, political and economical corruption that enveloped the countrys economy.

Therefore, this conclusion of the Moody's Investor Service is a clear message addressed not to the foreign investors, but to Serzh Sargsyan, who is trying to cover the economic dislocation with his attractive statements.

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Nazrin Gadimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @NazrinGadimova

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 March 2016 17:38 (UTC+04:00)

By Nazrin Gadimova

Despite international calls to abstain from aggravating the situation on the Armenia-Azerbaijan contact line, Armenia has intensified the armistice breaches over the week.

That showed the true intention of Yerevan, which continued breaking ceasefire during Novruz celebrations in Azerbaijan. Although the OSCE urged the parties to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to strictly observe the ceasefire on the eve of Novruz and Easter.

Armenia, which is an initiator of the long lasting Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has breached ceasefire over 1,200 times on March 19-28.

Furthermore, the Armenian Armed Forces violated the state border of Azerbaijan on the territory of Gazakh region on March 27 attempting to enter the country's territory.

The Azerbaijani troops could prevent the offensive attempt, making the enemy to retreat suffering losses.

The Azerbaijani army lost three servicemen during the operations.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry stated that these provocations counteracted the calls.

Spokesman for the Ministry Hikmet Hajiyev said that Armenias Defense Ministry responded this call with provocative attacks.

Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Andrzej Kasprzyk, personal representative of the country chairing the OSCE (Germany) and Minsk Group co-chairs made statements on March 18 and March 21 calling to adhere to the ceasefire during Novruz and Easter holidays, Hajiyev said.

He added that in accordance with the spirit of the holidays, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry immediately responded positively to Kasprzyks call.

However, Armenia continued the activities aimed at aggravating the situation on the contact line of Azerbaijani and Armenian armies and the Armenian-Azerbaijani border by intensively violating the ceasefire with heavy weapons, Hajiyev added.

Hajiyev said this once again proves that Armenias true purpose is to deliberately aggravate the situation, prevent the resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict through negotiations, maintain the status quo and continue the occupation of Azerbaijani territories.

The ministry believes that the presence of Armenian armed forces on Azerbaijans occupied lands is the main threat to peace and security in the region and main reason for the tension and ceasefire violation.

To achieve progress in resolution of the conflict and ensure sustainable ceasefire, Armenia should withdraw its troops from Azerbaijans occupied lands as required by the resolutions of the UN Security Council, according to the spokesperson.

Otherwise, Armenia is fully responsible for the current situation, he concluded.

For more than two decades Armenia and Azerbaijan are in a state of war following Yerevans aggression, ethnic cleansing policy and illegal territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenia keeps under control over 20 percent of Azerbaijan's internationally recognized territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent regions in a brutal war in the early 1990s.

Despite a fragile ceasefire agreement signed in 1994, Armenia keeps violating armistice with Azerbaijan.

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Nazrin Gadimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @NazrinGadimova

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 March 2016 13:40 (UTC+04:00)

By Dimitris Papadimoulis

Since July 2015, when the Greek government and its European counterparts agreed to a new bailout deal, my country has made immense efforts to implement structural reforms under tight deadlines. And while the reforms have at times been controversial  they touch on some of the most sensitive areas of the economy  they have also been successful. In the face of fierce domestic political opposition and an entrenched culture of mismanagement and corruption, the government is bringing about all the reforms asked of it.

The measures called for by the bailout program were adopted within a very short period of time; indeed, many of them were part of previous agreements, but had never been implemented. The areas that were addressed include the financial sector, health care, pensions, the judicial system, and the tax regime. Other reforms are expected to improve the performance and effectiveness of the civil service and boost economic competitiveness.

In the financial sector, the recapitalization of Greeces four systemic banks was an important step toward stabilizing the economy. After years of painful uncertainty, the Greek banking sector is now one of the most stable in the eurozone. The government also passed legislation aimed at improving the management of private debt and facilitating its restructuring. And it established mechanisms to resolve problems related to non-performing loans in the private sector. The safety net to protect the primary residences of low-income households was also fine-tuned.

The ongoing pension reform  both extremely sensitive and of paramount importance for the future of the Greek social-security system  has been the most heated subject of debate. The governments proposals have three aims: to guarantee that future generations will receive a pension; to ensure that all employed people are entitled to receive a national pension; and to minimize the cost of the system and make it self-sustaining.

The challenge is not an easy one. Previous governments drove the social-security system deep into debt, risking its short- and long-term viability. Over the last five years, some 325 different pension schemes have been merged into 11, but not in a way that has contained costs. The government is now trying to create order from this chaos and merge all social funds into a single, less expensive program.

The government has also introduced regulations that will take into account the length of time an employee or self-employed worker paid into the pension system and how his or her income has changed over time. Broadly speaking, the idea behind the reform is to link future pension increases with the overall performance of the economy.

Regarding taxes, the government has adopted measures to reduce evasion and increase collection rates. Revenues have been increased, without placing additional burdens on vulnerable social groups. Tax exemptions and deductions have been introduced in various sectors, and the value-added tax has also been significantly simplified to satisfy the need for an efficient, business-friendly bureaucracy.

To increase competitiveness, improvements were made to the process of issuing permits for economic activity. Protected professions were deregulated. The energy market  most importantly, the market for natural gas  and the market for tourist rentals were liberalized, and the process for acquiring an investment license was streamlined.

All of this has been accomplished in the face of fierce criticism from the opposition parties, especially those that governed Greece during the last 30 years and thus are responsible for driving it to ruin. It is as if they cannot understand how reforms can help restart an economy with deep structural problems.

Now that the Greek government has delivered on its part of the bailout deal, it is time that its European and international counterparts conclude the first review of the program. This will allow the government to proceed to the second stage: coping with skyrocketing unemployment and putting the economy back on the path to growth. Greece has several sectors that could provide it a comparative advantage within the eurozone, most notably the maritime sector, energy, tourism, agriculture, and social entrepreneurship.

The Greek economy may still be struggling; GDP fell by 0.6% in the last quarter of 2015, according to Eurostat. But predictions that the economy would shrink by as much as 4% last year proved to be unfounded. And because of the governments reforms and the countrys highly skilled workforce, the European Commission predicts a gradual return to growth by the second half of 2016. It is time that investors acknowledge the progress being made; the wise ones will begin to return to Greece.

Copyright: Project Syndicate: The Success of Greek Structural Reforms

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28 March 2016 15:08 (UTC+04:00)

By Javier Solana

In three months, British citizens will have to decide whether or not to remain in the European Union. But they are not the only ones who must consider their political future. The upcoming referendum also poses two important questions for the rest of Europe.

The first question is which outcome Europeans would and should prefer. Some have already written off the United Kingdom, claiming that a partner that would consider leaving is not the kind of partner they want, anyway. Whether or not one shares this opinion, the point is worth studying. Indeed, it would be naive not to ask whether retaining a member that is challenging the very principle of European integration would really be in the EUs best interests.

The reality is that the British public debate on sovereignty will not end when the votes are counted. After all, even if the majority says yes to the EU, a share of the population  a substantial one, according to the polls  will remain convinced that Brexit would have been much better for the UK.

Given this, debates and negotiations involving the UK and its European partners will continue to feature deep disagreements over the restrictions and conditions that accompany membership in the EU. For years to come, the British will demand a constant drumbeat of reaffirmation that they made the right choice.

This is an important consideration that should not be dismissed out of hand. But it should not lead the rest of Europe to favor Brexit. Indeed, if the majority of British voters decided to abandon the EU, everyone would suffer the consequences.

For starters, Brexit would deal a major economic blow to the UK and the EU alike. But that is not all. It would also weaken the security, foreign policy, and international standing of both parties.

In the face of a large-scale migration crisis, conflict on Europes borders, and the brutality of the Islamic State  security threats that affect all Europeans, and that cannot be confronted by any country alone  the need for a common EU foreign and security policy is clearer than ever. Yet European countries continue to struggle to reach consensus on foreign-policy measures  a failure that is undermining their international influence.

Indeed, after spending several years focused on coping with economic crises, the EUs influence and leadership in certain international decision-making arenas have waned. Meanwhile, member countries  including the UK, Europes greatest military power, which has traditionally been committed to international-minded policies  have been downsizing their defense expenditures.

By intensifying doubts about European integration, Brexit would further reduce the willingness of EU members to cooperate, resulting in the deterioration of both their security and their remaining international influence. For Europe, the loss of such an important security partner would clearly be detrimental. But the UK  left to confront global threats on its own, with less means and fewer partners  would be more vulnerable as well.

The second question that the referendum poses for Europeans is the same one that the British are addressing: Is EU membership worthwhile?

Centrifugal forces in the EU are stronger today than ever before, not only across the English Channel, but throughout the continent. Many countries have political movements and parties  some stronger than others  that are seeking to recover elements of sovereignty, to the detriment of common action. Some governments have even taken unilateral measures contrary to EU decisions.

Simply put, the lack of solidarity among member states has fueled efforts to weaken the values and principles on which the EU was founded, with many favoring a view that holds out the nation-state as the solution to every problem. Brexit would reinforce this trend, bolstering Europes nationalist and Euroskeptic forces. With a presidential election in France and federal elections in Germany next year, the potential political boost to anti-European forces could have serious long-term consequences. In this sense, Germanys recent regional elections should serve as a warning.

Let us be clear: The view driving these movements  that the EU is at the root of Europes myriad problems, from economic hardship to the refugee crisis, and that withdrawal (or unilateral action) is the only way to resolve them  is patently false. The problems we are facing did not arise because of European integration.

Global economic challenges and the flood of migrants and asylum-seekers will continue to reach Europes borders, whether it is united or not. What matters is how Europe responds to them. The rationale for integration is that collective action is far more effective than unilateral efforts.

Of course, it would not take long for the folly in the nationalistic approach to become apparent. But the damage caused by then could be severe. Given this, campaigns for European integration should not be limited to a rote affirmation of the benefits the EU has brought to its members, much less to efforts to appease Euroskeptics. Rather, the EU should be reaffirmed as an attractive political project. This delicate moment for the EU demands decisive progress toward a more effective, more integrated, and more desirable union.

Copyright: Project Syndicate: Brexits Questions for Europe

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28 March 2016 16:09 (UTC+04:00)

By Laman Ismayilova

Director of the Zoology Institute of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) Ilham Alekperov spoke about new discoveries and breakthroughs in this field while talking to Day.Az.

Activity of the Zoology Institute covers all issues related to the fauna of our country. For many years we carry out studies over various groups of animals important for the processes occurring in nature. Another important direction in our activity is research on parasites, including parasitic diseases of all wild and domestic birds and animals, their transmission and prevention. With the increase of fish farms the number of the related researches further expanded, "Alekperov said.

He reminded that the Institute pays a great attention to the hydrobiological, biological and ichthyological research in the Azerbaijan sector in the Caspian Sea.

Another extremely important research activity of the Institute of Zoology includes entomological research, i.e. the study of insects.

"The practical importance of this study is the early detection of insect and disease outbreaks, detection of highly dangerous so-called quarantine species and organization of biological methods for control over various pests by growing useful insects," he added.

The Zoology Institute also keeps focus on the rare and endangered species of animals.

Our specialists pay a great attention to the rare and endangered species of animals, from invertebrates (mollusks, insects) to mammals. Recently, the research of the leading specialists of our institute was summarized and published in the "Red Book" of Azerbaijan, which provides information about 243 rare and endangered species found in the countrys territories", he said.

Speaking about the future plans, the director of the Zoology Institute said that the scientific center is going to work with foreign experts.

We are going to work with foreign experts to organize a diagnostic laboratory for the detection and prevention of diseases of honey bees, he said. Also we plan to work together with the largest fish farms in Azerbaijan for disease prevention on the fish farms.

Alekperov further emphasized that in recent years, Azerbaijani zoologists have made a significant contribution to the study of wildlife.

In 2010-2015, our experts have for the first time described 1 genus and 12 species of single-celled animals, as well as 3 genus and 15 species of arachnids.

Together with the Russian colleagues we have discovered 2 species of dragonfly and 19 species, which are new for the fauna of Azerbaijan. Important results were also achieved by our parasitologist, as in 2015, specialists of the Institute of Zoology revealed Cryptosporidium oocysts in two species of birds. The same year along with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) we found 6 group leopard species in Nakhchivan and two more in Lankaran", said Alekperov.

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28 March 2016 11:06 (UTC+04:00)

By Nazrin Gadimova

Azerbaijans Armed Forces have prevented Armenian sides attempt to violate the countrys state border, Azerbaijans Defense Ministry reported on March 28.

The Armenian side, with a view to requite for the heavy losses, increased the number of provocations on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border, according to the ministrys report.

Thus, the Armenian armed forces violated the state border of Azerbaijan on the territory of Gazakh region on March 27, and tried to enter the country's territory. However, the Azerbaijani troops acted appropriately to prevent the offensive attempt, and as a result, the invaders suffered losses and were forced to retreat.

An officer of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, lieutenant Galib Zulfugarli and soldier Gafarali Hajiyev were killed in a battle. The leadership of Azerbaijani defense ministry expresses its deepest condolences to the bereaved relatives and friends.

Both servicemen were posthumously awarded with the third degree medal "For Distinction in Military Service" in accordance with the order issued by Azerbaijans Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov.

The Armenian armed forces have broken the ceasefire with Azerbaijan 130 times in various parts of the contact line between Azerbaijani and Armenian armies in the last 24 hours. Azerbaijani armed forces inflicted 131 strikes upon Armenian positions, the ministry reported.

For over two decades, Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in conflict which emerged over Armenia's territorial claims against its South Caucasus neighbor. Since a war in the early 1990s, Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan's territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions.

Over the entire period of its existence, the OSCE Minsk Group, which acted as the only mediator in resolution of the conflict, failed to move forward in resolving the long lasting conflict, although the interested parties had pinned great hopes on it.

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28 March 2016 14:20 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev has extended condolences to President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan over the terror attack in Lahor, Azertac state news agency reported.

We were deeply saddened by the news of heavy casualties as a result of an explosion in the Lahore city park. We resolutely condemn terror, which has become an evil, and are extremely outraged by this horrible tragedy, and fully support the fight against terrorism, said the president.

On the occasion of this tragedy, on behalf of the Azerbaijani people and on my own behalf, I extend my deep condolences to you, the bereaved families and the loved ones of those who died, and also wish the injured the swiftest possible recovery. May Allah rest the souls of the dead in peace!

Azerbaijans Foreign Ministry also strongly condemned the terrorist attack in the Pakistani city of Lahore, which led to numerous casualties, including the death of children.

"We express our condolences to families and friends of the victims, to the brotherly people of Pakistan, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hikmat Hajiyev said.

Azerbaijan as a country suffering from terrorism strongly condemns all manifestations of terror and fully supports the fight against terrorism, Hajiyev said.

At least 69 people have been killed and scores injured in an explosion at a public park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahorey. Many victims are said to be women and children. A splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the deadly attack.

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28 March 2016 16:31 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

Azerbaijans Interior Ministry still investigates the case of Belarusian citizen, who tried to enter the territory of Baku Metro through a ventilation system pipe on March 25.

Spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Police Colonel Sadig Gozalov stated that investigation on the fact is underway. He noted that relevant actions on the mentioned person have been carried out in accordance with the requirements of the agreement on corporation signed between the ministries of the two countries.

Police employees detained Belarusian citizen Ilyevskiy Sergei Timofeevich, who attempted to breach the ventilation system and enter Baku Metro around 1:30am on March 25.

The police found gloves, forehead flashlights and two ropes of different lengths on scene, as well 10 pieces of paint tube, 12 tubes of color outbursts headline, "Nikon" camera and "Sony" video camera were seized. Police also found on him photographs of Tbilisi and Yerevan subway stations, schemes of those stations and those of Baku Metro, a cell phone, and money.

Gozalov also expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement agencies of Belarus for promptly responding surveys of the Azerbaijani side on Ilyevskiy and close participation in this investigation.

The preliminary investigation revealed that, Ilyevskiy travelled to Armenia and Georgia last week. On March 18, the Belarusian citizen traveled from Belarus to Georgia and later from Georgia to Armenia. He returned to Georgia on March 23 and then came to Azerbaijan.

Sergei said he wanted to enter the subway tunnel by cutting the iron bars at the ventilation tube and draw graffiti-style pictures on the walls of Baku Metro.

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28 March 2016 16:26 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijans state oil fund SOFAZ sold $0.5 million to three local banks through the auction held by Azerbaijans Central Bank (CBA) March 28, SOFAZ reported on March 28.

SOFAZ offered $100 million for sale through the auction, and will continue selling foreign currency through auctions in 2016.

The foreign currency is sold as part of SOFAZs transfers to the Azerbaijani state budget, which are envisaged to stand at 7.615 billion Azerbaijani manats in 2016.

SOFAZ was established in 1999 with assets of $271 million.

As of January 1, 2016, SOFAZ assets reduced by 9.5 percent compared to 2014 ($37.1 billion) and were estimated at $33.57 billion.

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28 March 2016 14:30 (UTC+04:00)

By Fatma Babayeva

Azerbaijans state-owned energy company SOCAR sold 2.75 percent of its stake in Turkey's petrochemical giant Petkim to a foreign investment fund, SOCAR announced on March 24.

Its an ordinary business deal of selling stake acquired few years ago at a lower price," SOCAR reported.

Each stake will be sold approximately at a price exceeding its original cost by 2.5 times. "We gained significant profit from this deal. Revenues received from the sale of stakes will be reinvested in SOCARs other projects in Turkey, the company said.

Turkeys Public Disclosure Platform (KAP) reports that this stake was sold for 147 million liras ($51 million).

SOCAR's shares in Petkim are held through its subsidiary, Socar Turkey Enerji. SOCAR also said that the current deal wont affect the overall controlling block of shares volume in Petkim and SOCAR will continue to effectively manage this enterprise.

Purchase of the Petkims stake by a foreign investment fund at a high price demonstrates economic attractiveness of the mentioned stake. After selling 2.75 percent of its shares, SOCAR was left with a 56.32 percent equity stake in this petrochemical holding in Turkey.

Petkim is a sole manufacturer of plastic packages, fabrics, detergents, and other petrochemical products in Turkey.

By the end of 2015 Petkims assets increased by 44 percent as compared to 2014. Its net profit stood at 639.2 million liras in 2015.

Earlier in August 2015, SOCAR sold 7.68 percent of its stake in Petkim to Goldman Sachs International (established by US Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan banks) for $1.3 billion.

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28 March 2016 15:15 (UTC+04:00)

By Aynur Karimova

The Trans-Adriatic Pipeline, a part of the Azerbaijan-initiated giant Southern Gas Corridor, is not just a major investment for Greece, but also a significant geopolitical tool for this country.

Such a remark was made by TAP's country Manager for Greece, Rikard Skoufias at an international conference titled "Energy market: unlocking Greeces economic potential" in Athens on March 22, Natural Gas Europe reported.

He informed the conference participants that there were no clouds on the horizon for the project and that cooperation with Athens is smooth and steady in all aspects.

"Already 150 Greek companies have been selected as prospective suppliers for works on the pipeline," he added.

William Silkworth, an official of the U.S. Department of State, strongly backed TAP and IGB, while was equally strident in his criticism of some other pipeline projects.

Silkworth emphasized that diversification is a key aspect of the U.S. foreign policy and lies also in the core interests of the European Union.

He further added that the Nord Stream 2 and Turkish Stream are not projects that could assure energy security for the EU.

Silkworth believes that such projects are more of an attempt by the Russian side to keep a grip of its dominance in the EU markets.

Michalis Verroiopoulos, the Secretary General for Energy and Mineral Resources for the Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy also named diversification as a priority. He stressed how important it was for Greece to open up its market and to link it to a variety of energy projects in the wider region.

He mentioned that major initiatives will be set up regarding the TAP and the IGB projects; the proposed LNG terminal in the city of Alexandroupolis; and the EuroAsia Interconnector electricity high voltage line, which will link the electrical systems of Israel, Cyprus and Greece.

Greece, a Southern European nation with economic difficulties, has repeatedly expressed a desire to get Azerbaijani gas as soon as possible and assured to have necessary infrastructure for supply of Caspian blue fuel via the multi-billion Southern Gas Corridor.

Officials believe that the smooth implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project is very important for the development of energy cooperation between Greece and Azerbaijan.

The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages the transportation of the gas to be extracted from the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani section 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 join TAP, 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.

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Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova

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28 March 2016 16:59 (UTC+04:00)

By Gulgiz Dadashova

Belgian company Fluxys refused to buy a share in Greek gas transmission network operator DESFAs 66 percent controlling stake, which is to be bought by Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR.

Greek Ekathimerini reported on March 28 citing unnamed sources that Fluxys departed from talks on the issue.

The Belgian company has reportedly abandoned its plan to purchase 17 percent shares of DESFA, the source reported, adding that the company still supports the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

In 2013, SOCAR won the international tender for the acquisition of 66 percent of DESFA shares for 400 million euro. However, the European Commission launched a revision of this transaction on competition issues.

In 2015, the Greek government offered SOCAR to sell a 17 percent stake of DESFA shares to third parties. For the completion of the sale of the 49 percent controlling stake in DESFA to SOCAR, 17 percent must be sold to a European Union firm, with the SOCAR also having a say in the selection of the new stakeholder.

Snam from Italy, Fluxys from Belgium and Enagas from Spain voiced interested in acquisition of this stake in DESFA. An informal interest in DESFA has been expressed by Dutch company Gasunie.

In late 2015, the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) announced that it received a formal proposal from Fluxys-Enagas alliance and Italian company Snam to buy a 17-percent stake in DESFA.

SOCAR is the sole producer of oil products in Azerbaijan. It has two oil refineries and filling stations in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Ukraine, Romania and Switzerland. The company is the co-owner of the largest Turkish petrochemical complex, Petkim, and other assets in Turkey.

TAP is meant to transport natural gas from the giant Shah Deniz 2 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.

TAPs construction is expected to start in 2016. Its initial capacity will be 10 billion cubic meters of gas a year. TAPs shareholders are BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (5 percent).

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28 March 2016 09:21 (UTC+04:00)

Iran, Russia gas swap remains as an idea at the moment, however Tehran is prepared for that, Hamid Reza Araqi, Irans deputy oil minister said.

Iran and Russias Gazprom have held various talks on the issue in recent months, but no agreement has been reached so far, Araqi said, Fars news agency reported March 27.

We have announced to Russia and Gazprom that Iran has the entire necessary infrastructure for swap gas supplies from Russia, Araqi, who heads the National Iranian Gas Company said.

However Russia has not given us a definite answer, so the gas swap remains as an idea and it is not clear when it will be implemented, he added.

In mid-March Irans Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said that Tehran wants to cooperate with Russia in an oil and gas swap mechanism.

"Iran and Russia can have a suitable cooperation in the fields of trade and an oil and gas swap," Zanganeh said after meeting his Russian counterpart Alexander Novak in Tehran.

The two countries have been discussing the swap for several years. Russia would send oil and gas to northern Iran, where supply is scarce, and Iran in return would send oil and gas from its southern fields to Russia's customers in the Persian Gulf.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Iraqi touched upon the issue of gas swap with Turkmenistan, saying the condition is not different from Russias.

Iran is capable of swapping gas with Turkmenistan as well, he added.

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28 March 2016 11:11 (UTC+04:00)

Three servicemen got injured as a result of explosion in Turkeys southeastern province of Sanliurfa, the countrys Anadolu news agency reported March 28.

The explosion took place on one of the main roads of the province at the time when a military convoy was crossing it.

The Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) terrorist group was involved in the explosion, according to preliminary data. A large-scale operation against the PKK started in the province following the incident.

The PKK has in recent months become active in the south-east of Turkey, and its attacks on military units and police stations have increased.

The shootout with members of the PKK in Turkeys Diyarbakir province left 8 Turkish servicemen killed and 24 more injured on March 25.

Over 200 Turkish servicemen were killed in clashes with the PKK in 2015.

The conflict between Turkey and the PKK, which demands the creation of an independent Kurdish state, has continued for over 25 years and has claimed more than 40,000 lives.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist group by the UN and the European Union.

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28 March 2016 11:46 (UTC+04:00)

By Aynur Karimova

Iran and Pakistan have discussed issues of mutual interest, economic cooperation at regional and international levels, as well as development of bilateral relations.

The discussions were held between Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif in Islamabad.

President Rouhani arrived in Islamabad on a visit on March 25 heading a top-ranking delegation, as well as a 60-member group of Iranian businesspersons and representatives of private sector.

The milestone of this visit was signing of six documents, mostly focused on boosting economic ties.

Following the signing ceremony, President Rouhani said that Iran and Pakistan are determined to promote their bilateral relations, particularly in the economic field and in the fight against terrorism.

"We discussed economic relations and the capacity to expand them, including in the fields of energy, gas, and export of electricity," he said while talking about the meeting with the Pakistani prime minister.

As part of the visit, Iran and Pakistan also held a business forum, where President Rouhani said that Iran is ready to increase bilateral trade with Pakistan from current level of $1 billion a year to $5 billion.



Rouhani further said that the role of entrepreneurs, private and public sectors of the two countries for realizing the $5 billion annual trade target is very important.



He also underlined that Tehran will contribute to the energy security of Pakistan. Rouhani ensured Pakistani side that Tehran, as a strategic partner will spare no effort to meet Pakistans oil, gas and electricity needs.



Rouhani believes that the two sides should boost banking and trade ties and prepare grounds for free mutual trade, moving towards preferential trade.

Later, speaking at a press conference to wind up his two-day visit to Pakistan on March 26, President Rouhani said Iran has laid the pipeline up to the border to export gas to neighboring Pakistan encouraging the government in Islamabad to speed up measures to complete its share on its soil.

He stressed that Iran is determined to increase its relations with Pakistan in energy, ports, customs, roads, railways, cultural, academic, and scientific areas.

Expansion of Tehran-Islamabad ties will serve the interests of the Iranian and Pakistani nations, region and the world, he added.

President Rouhani also reminded that the Iranian port of Chabahar and Pakistani port of Gwadar are complementary and in a sound competition can be gateways of the land-locked Central Asian countries to the Indian Ocean.

We are following up launching a West-East corridor between the two ports. Further road, railways, and shipping links can help establish the corridor and connect China to this region, he said.

Tehran and Islamabad also agreed to increase Irans electricity export to Pakistan by 40 percent.

The agreement was achieved during the meeting of Iranian Energy Minister Hamid Chitchian and his Pakistani counterpart Khawaja Muhammad Asif in Islamabad on March 26.

The increase will be realized based on an amendment added to former agreement between the two countries which was signed in 2000.

The two ministers also held primary negotiations to increase the capacity of Irans electricity exports to Pakistan to 3,000 megawatts.

The sides agreed to finalize the issue during the visit of the Pakistani water and power minister to Tehran which is scheduled for May.

Also, Pakistan has allowed Iran to set up a branch of its largest commercial bank, Bank Melli in Pakistan, Tasnim news agency reported March 27.

Such a decision is envisaged in a Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed by Governor of Pakistans State Bank Ashraf Wathra and Head of Irans Central Bank Valiollah Seif on the sidelines of a joint business forum in Islamabad March 26.

Under the agreement, Pakistans Habib Bank will be allowed to open a branch in Iran as well.

Establishing correspondent banking relationships, opening banking accounts between Tehran and Islamabad, and preparing grounds for cooperation of the two countries commercial banks to facilitate the business are among the other contents of the deal.

The two sides also agreed to form a joint banking committee to pursue the process of implementation of the agreement.

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28 March 2016 12:15 (UTC+04:00)

The Iranian administration spares no effort to boost the countrys defense capabilities, President Hassan Rouhani said during the first meeting of the ministers cabinet in Irans new calendar year, the state-run IRINN TV reported March 28.

The government pursues any measure which is necessary for strengthening Irans defensive capabilities, Rouhani said.

He added that the issue is his administrations strategic policy.

However, he further said that, the Islamic Republic should be careful to not provide its enemies with any excuse in this regard.

Rouhanis remarks came after Iran was slapped with new US sanctions, following the test-fire of several ballistic missiles from several bases across the country as part of massive missile drills in early March.

While a couple of Western and regional states claimed the tests have violated a UN resolution, Iranian officials have constantly reiterated that Tehran's ballistic missile tests do not violate the nuclear agreement it reached with the P5+1 group and are not in breach of a United Nations Security Council resolution.

The US Department of the Treasury imposed financial sanctions on two Iranian companies it claims were involved in the countrys ballistic missile program.

Washingtons latest legal move against Tehran was announced on March 24, weeks after the US imposed similar sanctions on 11 other companies and individuals alleged to be involved in the missile program.

Irans Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif earlier said that the Islamic Republic would respond to the sanctions by strengthening its missile capabilities.

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28 March 2016 12:53 (UTC+04:00)

Uzbekistan has increased privileges of the fund for export support for entities of small business and private entrepreneurship, according to the decree of Uzbek President Islam Karimov published on March 28.

The fund was created in 2013 at the National Bank for Foreign Economic Activity of Uzbekistan for the expansion of export potential of entities of small business and private entrepreneurship, as well as farms.

In accordance with the current decree by the Uzbek president, the fund can participate in the authorized capital of small business entities, which have no sufficient funds to organize output of export-oriented products, compensate small business entities and farms a part of costs for modernization, expansion of production, attraction of foreign specialists with the subsequent return of the means to the fund.

Commission contributions to the fund for the rendered services have been reduced from three to one percent of the export contract value, but not less than 100,000 soums (UZS).

The official exchange rate as of March 28 is 2871.77 UZS/$1.

The fund has also been granted the right to open representative offices in foreign countries.

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28 March 2016 15:23 (UTC+04:00)

Turkmenistan has made a 20-percent discount to Turkey for cargo transportation through the Caspian Sea, Istanbulhaber online newspaper quoted Fatih Sener, executive director of Turkish International Transporters Association, as saying on March 28.

Sener noted that the Turkmen government made a decision on a discount on March 25. He earlier told Trend that Turkey can increase the cargo transportation with ro-ro vessels from Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan bypassing Iran.

As many as 1,582 trucks were sent to Central Asia from Turkey through Azerbaijans territory in January-February of 2016, or 7.3 times more than in the same period in 2015.

Azerbaijan applied attractive transportation fees in late 2015 in an effort to become a major transport hub of the region. The country made a nearly 40-percent reduction in the transit cost of cargo transportations by large trucks to the Aktau and Turkmenbashi ports.

The Cost reduction for foreign carriers were made after simplification of transit procedures and reduction of tariffs for cargo transport, functioning to Kazakhstans Aktau port and Turkmenistans Turkmenbashi port.

Also the Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company reduced tariffs by 20 percent in order to improve the attractiveness of maritime transportation of cars traveling from Turkey to Kazakhstan.

Currently, Azerbaijan uses its location to provide transit of the Turkish goods to the countries of Central Asia, as Russia banned entrance of trucks from Turkey.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 March 2016 18:31 (UTC+04:00)

By Aynur Karimova

Energy-rich Turkmenistan will continue to realize programs and projects envisaging further development, modernization and diversification of the national fuel and energy complex.

Such an instruction was given by President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov at the recent meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers, the country's government reported.

Berdymukhamedov believes that these measures will strengthen the industrial and export potential of the energy sector, increase the volume and expand the range of the country's oil and gas chemical products.

Currently, Turkmenistan is implementing a project on construction of large oil and gas chemistry enterprises in the next decade.

The government also pays special attention to the development of gas processing industry and increasing production volumes of liquefied natural gas, which enjoys a steadily growing demand on the world market. Turkmenistan has attracted companies from Japan, South Korea and Turkey to the realization of these projects.

Turkmenistan, with its 265 trillion cubic feet of proven gas and 600 million barrels of proven oil reserves (EIA, January 2015), is actively implementing an energy strategy aimed at increasing exports of natural gas and diversifying its supply routes to the largest global markets, as well as providing the gas-chemical complexes of the country with necessary raw material.

The country exports its natural gas to China and Iran. There are also discussions on gas supply to Europe through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan and Turkey. Turkmenistan plans to increase gas extraction to 230 billion cubic meters by 2030, some 180 billion cubic meters of which will be exported.

Also, Turkmenistan has developed a plan for construction of industrial facilities, where the production of gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic fibers, hydrochloric acid, caustic soda, polystyrene and other gas chemical products will be launched on the basis of advanced technologies for the processing of natural gas.

In general, Turkmenistan plans to bring its oil refining industry capacity to 20 million tons in 2020, up to 22 million tons in 2025, and up to 30 million tons in 2030. The country also plans to construct 10 new industrial facilities, engaged in the production of 17 kinds of products.

Thus, Turkmenistan will significantly expand its position not only in the market of primary energy resources, but will also take its rightful place in the market for gas and chemical products by betting on a deeper and more complex processing of natural gas and increase of the share of its products in export.

--

Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
28 March 2016 18:15 (UTC+04:00)

By Amina Nazarli

Whether you love cities best for their architecture, culture, people or food, in Baku exactly will be something to capture your imagination.

Located "where East and West meet", Azerbaijans capital city Baku attracts many people from all over the world.

Baku is absolutely stylish city with incredible synthesis of old and modern buildings, which offers its visitors to enjoy amazing feeling of an extraordinary contrast.

Baku is the city, which is simply impossible to ignore and without discovering this City of Winds one would miss a lot.

A recently published book Skylines: A Journey Through 50 Skylines of the World's Greatest Cities also paid a special attention to Baku. British travel writers Yolanda Zappaterra and Jan Fuscoe, highlighted the beauties of Baku along with those of London, Roma, Paris, Istanbul, New York and Moscow.

The travelers told about the antiquity, history and architecture of the city, as well as its famous mud volcanoes.

Geologists compare mud volcanoes of Azerbaijan with the surface of the Mars. Tourists often make unique photos in the fantastic scenery of natural attractions, where 23 mud volcanos are protected by the government and have the status of national parks.

The travelers also mentioned the Icherisheher (Old City), Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah Palace, which were included in the UNESCOs world heritage list.

Of no less interest for the guests is the modern appearance of the capital.

Among the new hallmarks of Baku the travelers highlight the magnificent building complex Flame Towers, which has become the modern symbol of Baku, Heydar Aliyev Center, resembling a wave-like ascension from the ground towards the sky as well as International Mugham Center, which is a very valuable building for the acquaintance the world with the national music.

The book also praised significant international events held in the country for past years such as Eurovision Song Contest, inaugural European Games, also mentioning the forthcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe to take place this summer.

Baku has become the favorite destinations for many tourists because of many unique features. Despite the fact that Azerbaijan is a Muslim country, there are no special restrictions of dress and use of alcohol here, thats why many tourists feel themselves comfortable and can enjoy unique contrasts here.

Each year the number of tourist who wish to see and feel the atmosphere in this beautiful city increases. Russia has recently announced about the growth in number of its tourists visiting the South Caucasus, including Azerbaijan.

Russian experts said the number of booked tours to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia have increased by half. Demand for tours to Azerbaijan, in turn, rose by three times.

There is an increase in demand for Baku and Tbilisi tours. The number of tickets to these destinations increased by three times compared to January-April 2015, said Vladislav Shevtsov, Director of the general manger of DaTravel.com.

--

Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli



Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
 

       3.0 (      -       -         ): editor [at] bahrainmirror.com
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 51F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 51F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph.
Democrats Abroad Wednesday Film: 'The Big Short'

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - As part of their Every Wednesday Night Film series, the Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad Mexico is proud to present this week's movie, 'The Big Short.' This 2015 Academy Award-winning movie will be shown at the International Friendship Club in downtown Puerto Vallarta on March 30th at 7:00 pm.

The Big Short

In 2008, Wall Street guru Michael Burry realizes that a number of sub prime home loans are in danger of defaulting. Burry bets against the housing market by throwing more than $1 billion of his investors' money into credit default swaps. His actions attract the attention of banker Jared Vennett (Ryan Gosling), hedge-fund specialist Mark Baum (Steve Carell) and other greedy opportunists. Together, these men make a fortune by taking full advantage of the impending economic collapse in America.

Tickets are available at the International Friendship Club Monday-Friday from 9 am to 1:30 pm. IFC is located above the HSBC bank just north of the Rio Cuale in el Centro, Puerto Vallarta, where the streets Insurgentes, Libertad, and Miramar all come together at the curve. Come up the stairs, and the Clubhouse will be on your right side.

Tickets are available for a donation of 60 pesos in advance and 70 pesos at the door. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Refreshments will be available. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

For further information, you can contact Tobe Jensen at tjensen1942(at)hotmail.com or Millard Mott at kite70(at)hotmail.com.

The International Friendship Club is a registered charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C. It is located at the northeast corner of the Rio Cuale Bridge above the HSBC Bank, Colonia El Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, 48300. Phone: 322-222-5466. Website: ifcvallarta.com Email: ifcvallarta(at)gmail.com
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders to Visit Riviera Nayarit

Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico - The Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has confirmed the Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders will be back in Mexico's Pacific Treasure in 2016. They will be staying in host hotel and sponsor Marival Residences from April 10-21.

"Everyone knows the Dallas Cowboys and their famous cheerleaders," said Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit CVB. "This type of activity proves we mean it when we say the Riviera Nayarit is ready and willing to take its public relations and its events beyond what's conventional. We've obtained a lot of media coverage in the past for this event and this time won't be the exception."

Upon arrival the Dallas Cowboy's committee will meet with the PR office of the Riviera Nayarit CVB in order to propose the best locations for the photo sessions. The next two days will be taken up with scouting sessions to confirm their viability.

Once that's done, two production teams will head out every day from April 14-21 with three or four cheerleaders each to the different locations for photo shoots at daybreak and sunset. For each activity there will be 30-minutes and a 1-hour of video taken.

There will be another group working with the rest of the cheerleaders on pictures and group activities on a daily basis.

Meanwhile other activities are being "brewed" by host hotel Marival Residences and the Groups and Events department of the Riviera Nayarit CVB, which will be announced before the arrival of the beautiful and talented cheerleaders to the destination.
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UPDATE - 1:42 p.m.

Clearwater Police have identified the driver as Darrell T. Currington, 33, of Clearwater. Currington remains in critical condition at Bayfront Health St. Petersburg.

Authorities now say a Clearwater Police sergeant spotted Currington, driving a 2016 Hyundai Sonata, after officers were alerted to a possible DUI driver on the south end of Clearwater Beach. When Currington fled the traffic stop, officers did not pursue.

Currington continued driving in what officers described as a "reckless and careless" manner. Another officer deployed stop sticks in an effort to stop Currington, which flattened both of the car's left side tires.

Still trying to escape, Currington ran the red light at Fort Harrison Avenue and Chestnut. He lost control of his car shortly after while trying to dart between cars.

Clearwater Police report that alcohol appears to have been a factor in the incident, and at some point while Currington's car was stuck in traffic, two female passengers jumped out of the car.

10:56 a.m.

A driver in Clearwater Beach crashed his car Sunday after trying to escape a traffic stop, according to Clearwater Police.

Officials say the incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. The driver fled the attempted traffic stop and was spotted driving recklessly leaving the beach and heading west on Memorial Causeway.

The driver then lost control of the car and crashed on the 600 block of Chestnut Street, just east of Fort Harrison Avenue.

Authorities say the driver suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash, and was transported to Bayfront Health St. Petersburg for treatment.

All lanes of Chestnut Street east of Fort Harrison were closed for several hours as officers investigated the scene.

Investigators have yet to release the name of the driver. The investigation is ongoing.
Tampa Police Chief Eric Ward said during a news conference Monday that injured Officer Jose Rodriguez is in good spirits after being shot Saturday.



Rodriguez was shot after responding to reports of gunshots fired near a hotel parking lot in north Tampa. Upon arriving, Rodriguez and another officer exchanged shots with Patrick McManamon, who was killed.



Rodriguez, 53, was shot one time in the chest from a distance of about 20 feet. The bullet hit his body armor vest, which likely saved his life, officials said.



"Officer Rodriguez is in good spirits and excited to go home. (He) expressed appreciation for all the well wishes," said Ward, who added the 13-year veteran officer likely would released from the hospital on Monday.



Police say the incident started at 4 p.m. Saturday in a pickup truck at a Sunoco gas station on 30th Street. A witness called 911 and followed the suspects to the Hyatt Place Hotel, also on 30th Street.



According to TPD Sgt. Greg Van Hoyst, McManamon, 46, and Edward King were in the truck together with McManamon driving.



"We believe the passenger in the truck, King, received fatal wounds before police arrived," Van Hoyst said. "McManamon began firing at (officers), they were able to return fire, striking McManamon several times."



King, 51, was already dead once officers arrived at the Hyatt parking lot.



Chief Ward also explained the department's policy toward body armor.



"Every officer in the department is issued body armor," Ward said, "and wears it within the probation period of a year."



After that, each individual officer has the option to wear or not wear body armor. Variables in those options include assignments, heat and specific investigations being conducted.



"Every officer is issued body armor and we encourage them to use it," said Ward, who added the vests are $600 each. "Evidenced by this incident, it saves lives."


1916 is important as it was a military move against Britain that would inspire others in their fight for democracy or colonial freedom. [1916] was cited as inspiration by those who led the 1917 Russian Revolution and the nationalist movements in India and Southern Africa, he said.

One hundred years after the rebellion, 2016 marks the idealism of the men and women who proclaimed the Irish Republic and challenged the might of the British Empire, said Cronin.

The centenary is being commemorated on both sides of the Atlantic. At Boston College, U.S. Congressman Richard Neal and Boston Mayor and alumnus Marty Walsh reflected on the Rising during a visit to campus earlier this semester; and an international conference and commemorative concert were spearheaded by the Center for Irish Programs, which comprises all the University's Irish initiatives, including Boston College Ireland.

In Dublin, BC's focus is on the myriad of events that would change Ireland between 1913-23with attention to ordinary life during the time period, as wellthrough the Century Ireland project, a collaboration among Boston College Ireland, state broadcaster RTE, and national cultural institutions.

Century Ireland is an online newspaper that details the events of 100 years ago in real time, as they occurred. It highlights the big stories of the day, but also focuses on the mundane reality of life such as housing, sporting events, court cases, fashion, the cinema, or shopping, Cronin said, to offer visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Irish people during the years of the fight for freedom. The goal is to juxtapose "the historical context of the political changes in Ireland with the reality that most people were simply getting on with their lives," he said.
Heather Shoemaker and her family put their home on the real estate market in January, a decidedly slow period for home sales.

A week ago, they had a contract from a buyer.

They also have a contract on a house they want to buy.

The closings are set for April, she said.

Their needs were specific - space for her mother, but there for the kids and for the Shoemakers to care for her.

"We saw a specific house by chance. We said, 'This house might prompt us to move,'" she said.

The "For Sale" sign went up in front of their current home.

"Surprisingly, there were a lot of shoppers," she said.

The Shoemakers' experience is backed up by the most recent data available, which show a strong market for Beaumont and surrounding areas, a very different scenario from a year ago.

In February, the most recent month for which there are figures, the Beaumont Multiple Listing Service had 1,297 homes in its sales inventory. Completed sales were 209, with a value of $31.8 million and an average list price of $150,000. At the current sales pace, it would take about 31/2 months to sell out existing inventory.

A year ago, there were 75 completed sales with a value of $10.9 million and an average list price of $146,000. The inventory sellout period was 7 months.

The Beaumont Board of Realtors, which celebrated its centennial on March 27, is aiming at a higher profile for its industry.

"We're proficient in our profession," said Vivian Todd, a Realtor with Re/Max One Beaumont, referring to each licensed Realtor's continuing education and access to data on home sales.

Todd is the Beaumont Board of Realtors' immediate past president and chairs the group's centennial observances.

Karisa Tinsley, a Realtor with American Real Estate, is the Beaumont Board's current president.

The Beaumont Board has 400 Realtor members and affiliate members in other allied companies, like engineers who perform inspections, warranty companies and title companies.

The Realtor designation is a trademark that demonstrates the members achieved standards laid out by the national association and the state association for licensing.

A Realtor has to be many things for buyers and sellers, Tinsley said.

"It's a relationship business," Tinsley said. "There are a lot of emotions in a transaction."

A home is likely a family's largest investment, and emotions attach to a place where a family has lived and where children have grown.

"Realtors can be so helpful," Shoemaker said. "They look at all of them (homes for sale), the before and after."

"We're the source of the sources," Tinsley said, explaining that Realtors know who to find to provide accurate information.

Realtors, like any other large association, lobby for laws that will favor their buyers and sellers.

Texas, for example, recently approved a constitutional amendment that bans transfer taxes.

In contrast, Florida and California have transfer taxes, as much as 5 percent added to each sale. On the sale of a home valued at $150,000, that could be as much as $7,500, she said.

"We helped defeat that," she said.

Realtors also lobby for windstorm insurance reform so Tier 1 homeowners - who live in what are considered coastal counties - can have access to affordable windstorm protection.

Tinsley said on average people sell a home every five to seven years. That means return business and referral business, particularly in a market with a lot of relocation sales like Beaumont, where jobs in the petrochemical industry, corrections and Lamar University can drive moves.

Realtors will put together a more identifiable image this year, Todd and Tinsley said.

Instead of concentrating on their various companies, they want to forge an image that highlights their professional side.

"We're independent contractors, in competition within our own offices," Tinsley said. "We want to reach out to the community and to be seen more as a Realtor family."

DWallach@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/DWallach
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The bucket loader pierced beneath ground level at the site of the Parkdale Mall McDonald's restaurant, revealing a large, brick-lined hole, the remains of a basement.

In a city built on gumbo clay with a water table sloshing just a few feet under the surface, a basement in Beaumont is a rarity.

A new McDonald's to be built on the spot will not have that feature, said Brian Ellis, chief executive of the 19-store franchise he owns and operates.

The McDonald's at the site on Dowlen Road where Crow Road intersects has served burgers, fries and sodas since September 1977, just a few years after Parkdale Mall opened with anchor stores like Sears, J.C. Penney, Joske's and Montgomery Ward.

Dillard's is now where Joske's was and Macy's occupies the old Montgomery Ward space. Sears and Penney's are the only survivors of the ever-fluctuating retail business.

Meanwhile, McDonald's keeps serving its average of 1,000 customers a day, Ellis said.

"We rebuild stores every 20 to 25 years," Ellis said. "Everybody wants a shiny, new car. Or a shiny, new restaurant. When you modernize, you get efficiencies."

The new Parkdale McDonald's will be the first replacement restaurant at the location, he said, making the original almost 39 years old.

By comparison, the McDonald's in Vidor, rebuilt in 1995, is scheduled to be rebuilt after Parkdale. The original Vidor location also had a basement, Ellis said.

McDonald's Corp., headquartered in Oak Park, Illinois, apparently liked basements, Ellis said.

When a franchise owner rebuilds, the investment is split with the company, but the local owner controls the design based on corporate guidelines.

For example, the former Parkdale building, which had a playground added after its original construction in 1977, was 2,900 square feet.

The new building will be 4,086 square feet, according to a building permit at the city of Beaumont. It will have seating for 82 and an occupation maximum of 102 people, with 44 parking spaces.

The building permit is for $750,000, but the redevelopment cost is about $2 million, Ellis said. That includes a new interior and equipment.

"McDonald's owns the building. I rent from McDonald's. We share in the investment," he said.

He said McDonald's is the world's second-largest landowner, behind the Vatican, he said.

"You make money in the long run," he said. "If you're going to rebuild, you do it on a schedule everywhere."Across the country, he said McDonald's is 60 percent to 65 percent "modernized," which is about where he is with his stores as well.

Ellis said an example of increased efficiency will be the interior soda fountain, which will be increased from four feet in length to 10 feet.

The store's 45 to 50 employees were assigned to other Beaumont McDonald's locations during construction and will return in mid-June when the new restaurant reopens.

Ellis said he hasn't decided whether to make the location a 24-hour operation like the one at Eastex Freeway and Texas 105.

DWallach@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/dwallach
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With two rivers running through it, the Gulf of Mexico abutting it and hurricanes occasionally thrashing it, Southeast Texas is familiar with the type of flooding that overcame Deweyville two weeks ago.

With one known exception, the towns and cities that have been flooded out over more than a century - think Bridge City and Sabine Pass but also Port Arthur, Galveston, Orange, Beaumont and even Groves - have always rebuilt.

The one town that didn't was a 19th Century settlement of about 10 families called Aurora, located where Port Arthur now sits.

"They took apart their houses and they moved to Beaumont," Sarah Bellian, curator of the Museum of the Gulf Coast, said of the Aurora families. "They said, 'There's no way we can live here.'"

Save for sawmill towns that came and went, Aurora is the only known Southeast Texas town site that residents abandoned, Bellian and other local historians said.

Even there, however, the desertion was temporary, as railroad promoter Arthur Stilwell later swooped in and, by 1899, had built a port.

The historic Sabine River flooding that recently covered Deweyville has prompted introspection from the roughly 1,000 residents who live in the small southeast Newton County riverside community.

They have now seen the worst side of river life, and they know there's no guarantee it won't happen again next year. Nonetheless, many residents have pledged to rebuild rather than flee.

"I guess we all hope that it will never happen again," said Tommy Spears, who manages the Stuckey's meat market just outside of town. "You know it can, but you just can't believe it can."

A city lost to nature

Well before Port Arthur became an industrial hub powered by crude oil refineries, the people who tried to tame the area failed.

Two San Augustine men - one of them Col. Almonzan Huston, former quartermaster general in the Texas Army - founded Aurora in 1837, wrote the late local historian W.T. Block in "A History of Jefferson County, Texas: From Wilderness to Reconstruction."

Huston tried to sell lots but abandoned the project, Block wrote.

Nonetheless, the Sparks family was one of several to move there. Eventually a railroad passing was named Aurora in reference to the Huston realty venture.

The families who lived there were struck by illness, an isolation from health services, a wildlife tragedy and a devastating hurricane, according to historians.

"Death took its toll upon the settlement of Aurora," wrote William McKissick Timmerman Jr. in his 2001 book, "Early History of Port Arthur, Texas."

One man died from yellow fever, Timmerman wrote, and his 12-year-old daughter was eaten by an alligator. In 1890, diphtheria plagued residents who stayed following the 1885 Hurricane that leveled their homes.

By 1895, the town was abandoned.

"In effect, (Aurora) had become a ghost town as the forces of nature had once again prevailed against the human determination to settle the region," Timmerman wrote.

Southeast Texas rebuilt many times

Southeast Texas has a deep history of overcoming the forces of nature.

The list of cities and towns that have at one point been submerged is long: Beaumont, Orange, Port Arthur, Galveston, Bridge City, Sabine Pass, Groves and many more.

Between the 1830s when settlers arrived and the early 20th Century, their homes were frequently destroyed, Bellian said.

In Orange, where the Sabine River flooding two weeks ago closed Interstate 10 for three days and forced an evacuation downtown, the city was devastated in 1865 by heavy rains and wind.

Fourteen years after the 1886 Hurricane overwhelmed Aurora, the 1900 Hurricane struck Galveston - still the costliest natural disaster in U.S. history. A hurricane 15 years later devastated Port Arthur.

"Stuff got wiped off the map with some regularity," Bellian said.

Some areas have built back better and developed flood protection and control systems that lessened their vulnerability.

A 16-foot seawall safeguarded Port Arthur from Hurricane Ike's 2008 surge, which instead inundated Bridge City.

Beaumont also sees protection from that seawall, as well as the south Jefferson County marsh. Inside the city, a series of detention ponds and rerouted drainage canals have made it more difficult for heavy rains to flood it as they did decades ago.

Meanwhile, Sabine Pass, with 360 residents living in 150 homes, is barely holding on after hurricanes Rita and Ike assaulted it 10 years ago.

Flood protection for the town itself, which is essentially the first storm buffer for much of Jefferson County, has not been seriously considered.

Yet, some people rebuilt homes there twice in a three-year span, just as residents rebuilt Bridge City after Ike and other Southeast Texas cities did after being swamped.

"I think in a lot of cases people come back because they don't know how not to," Bellian said. "It's where they're from. It's the lifestyle they're used to."

Deweyville determined to come back

Deweyville, hardest hit by the recent Sabine River flooding, faces almost a complete rebuilding if it's to survive.

Residents began gutting their homes early last week, and many resolved to come back.

This year's record flood - far worse than floods of memory in 1953 and 1989 - underscored the hazard of living in an unincorporated town that is both along the river and downstream from a dam that doesn't concern itself with flood control.

But amid the financial, mental and physical strains the flood introduced, people remain attracted to a close-knit town isolated from cities but within relatively short driving distances to Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, Lake Charles and Houston.

"They're like me - they just don't want to be in" the cities, said Spears, the 63-year-old butcher. "Nobody tells me what I can spit out the back door or if I can have a chicken."

Nonetheless, rebuilding to keep alive a place where generations of families have never left will be a tough task.

Even before the flood, the town was slowly shrinking and aging.

The population has ticked downward, from 1,218 in 1990 to 1,091 as of 2014, the most recent Census data.

A majority of residents are older than 47, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The median age in 2000 was 35.

Throughout Newton County, just 132 homes or businesses are covered by flood insurance, according to Federal Emergency Management Agency statistics. That would represent less than 3 percent of the county's occupied housing units.

Deweyville residents will have to piece their own funds together with low-interest home-building loans from the Small Business Association. FEMA grants, capped at $33,000, can be spent on temporary housing and on items of need, like appliances, but not homes.

It's not an impoverished town, though it's far from rich. Just 3 percent of Deweyville residents' income fell below the poverty line in 2013, according to Census data. Per-capita income is about $36,000.

Despite the daunting road ahead, within weeks of losing their homes and knowing it could happen again, most Deweyville residents are determined to return, according to Spears and 47-year-old John Sims, who lives in the heart of town.

Sims said he doesn't even see the population shifting toward higher elevated land on the town's outskirts.

"I believe they're going to stay where they're at and, more or less, take their chances, just like I am," Sims said.

Sims, who paid off his home and finished remodeling it shortly before the flood, lives on the same block as some of his family. He doesn't want to move.

"I don't want to start back over," Sims said. "I raised my kids here. My kids were raised right here in this house. This house means a lot to me."

EBesson@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/EricBesson_news
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SOUTHEAST TEXAS TALES

A Vietnamese boy eating watermelon looks up optimistically in the cover image on the June 1976 edition of Texas Monthly.

The magazine headline reads: "Viet Nam Comes to Texas."

Inside, the story documents how the largest concentration of Vietnamese refugees in the state has immigrated to Jefferson County.

By that summer, Jefferson County had more refugees than some entire states, including North Carolina, New Jersey and Massachusetts.

Most weren't placed here by a government agency. They came of their own accord during the fall of Saigon in 1975.

They were tradesmen, fishermen, store clerks, farmers, policemen and low-ranking soldiers.

Their arrival in the United States was largely met with apathy. A task force created to manage the resettlement of Vietnamese people fleeing their government's oppression struggled to find sponsors.

"Southeast Texas responded to the initial calls for sponsorship about like the rest of us - with general indifference, forgetfulness or simply the feeling that it was the government's problem to solve," according to the Texas Monthly article.

Three men were responsible for the resettlement that occurred in Beaumont and Port Arthur - Dow Wynn, then the director of the port of Port Arthur and lay chairman of the resettlement program; Beaumont parish priest Father William Manger; and Father Tran Van Khoat, who imagined the resettled Vietnamese in their own community on the Gulf.

The proposed location for this community, also supported by Wynn, was "doomed from the start," according to Texas Monthly.

It was met with fear and hostility by residents of Sabine Pass, near where the community was planned.

The article showed government policies were in place to avoid this kind of "clustering."

Southeast Texans were mostly kind to the immigrants, with many stepping up to provide housing and work for the immigrants.

But some sponsors soon started feeling "morally tried and sometimes bitter." The influx of immigrants was straining charities that were already stretched thin, according to the article.

A September 1979 headline in the Beaumont Enterprise read, "Many reasons given for bitter feelings against Viet immigrants."

The immigrants who came to Southeast Texas, known as the third wave, never intended to stay. Many didn't speak or learn English.

This "lack of fluency" was part of a larger problem, according to the Enterprise story.

The most antagonism occurred between fishermen and shrimpers.

The Vietnamese arrived in an already-crowded fishing area.

Fishing during that 1979 season didn't yield a lot of profit for anyone. Tensions between the locals and immigrants grew when the Vietnamese sold seafood for a lower price.

Not every story or encounter was negative.

Immigrants working side-by-side with Southeast Texans in the plants or shipyards said they experienced little discrimination.

In Orange County, a priest named Robert J. Mulligan used resettlement money given to each refugee to buy up real estate. He purchased a home for a 12-member Vietnamese family.

At the time that the Texas Monthly article was published, he had done the same with nine other families.

Mulligan believed home ownership ensured "permanence and stability," the article said.

The immigrants he sponsored used welfare when needed, but he was quoted as saying that they were mostly "self-sufficient" and that many were employed in Orange.

Vietnamese-owned businesses are now scattered throughout the region, with the biggest concentration in Port Arthur, where more than half of the now 4,400 people who identify as Vietnamese live in Jefferson County.

Southeast Texas Tales is a weekly feature that revisits regional history.MHeath@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/mheath31
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After Lance Mueller accidentally fired a shot through the wall into room 348 at the MCM Elegante on Sept. 15, 2010, as he and two coworkers kicked back at the end of a work day, they kept drinking, eventually moving downstairs to the bar without checking on the welfare of the man whose voice they'd heard talking on the phone to his wife earlier.

Later, they said they heard him cough as they returned to room 349, apparently interpreting it as meaning he'd been unscathed by the stray bullet, but again did nothing.

It's a tiny piece of the puzzle that haunts Gregory Joseph Fleniken's widow.

Susie Aycock Fleniken initially filed a lawsuit in the case in an absence of good information about her husband's death, as a means of investigating it, her New Orleans-based lawyer Kea Sherman said. But now, after looking into the security provided by the hotel that night and knowing how her husband died and who was responsible, Fleniken is spurred to continue moving forward with it. Sherman said she hopes to bring the case to trial by next summer.

Mueller already is paying a penalty for Greg Fleniken's death. The Wisconsin man was sentenced in October 2012 to 10 years on a manslaughter charge, with the severity of the sentence for the accidental shooting attributed to his egregious actions after the shooting.

The unusual case has attracted national media coverage, first with a story in Vanity Fair magazine in May, and now an upcoming 20-20 episode will feature the whodunit, probably later this month, Sherman said.

Fleniken, 55, a resident of Lafayette, La. who commuted weekly to his job in Beaumont as vice president of OGM Land Company, died Sept. 15, 2010. But due to the strange circumstances surrounding his death, the homicide went unsolved for almost nine months.

The men that had been partying in room 349 that night, Mueller and his coworkers Trent Pasano and Timothy Steinmetz, are defendants in Susie Aycok Fleniken's lawsuit along with the company that owns the Elegante and Delta Security, who were employed to patrol the hotel. The three men were electricians from Wisconsin employed on a massive refinery upgrade project underway at Total Refinery in Port Arthur.

Susie Aycock Fleniken believes that if the men or hotel security had acted responsibly and checked to be sure her husband was okay after the bullet was fired, there might still have been time to save his life, Sherman said.

At different times, former Jefferson County Medical Examiner Tommy Brown has cited the length of time Greg Fleniken could have survived the shooting from 30 seconds to 10 minutes, Sherman said.

Another medical expert gave a different opinion, Sherman said, estimating that Fleniken could have been alive for several hours after the bullet pierced the wall and entered his body where he lay on the bed. The gunshot caused him to lurch to his feet and stagger to the door, where he fell and was found dead the next day by coworkers who came to look for him after his wife reported he hadn't checked in as he normally would.

In filings at the Jefferson County District Clerk's Office, the MCM Elegante, Delta Security and Steinmetz denied the allegations in Fleniken's petition. No response from Mueller or Pasano had yet been filed.

The mystery

Perhaps the oddest thing about Fleniken's death was that it was not immediately evident he had been shot. Fleniken had been lying on his bed, smoking and snacking on candy bars as he watched "Iron Man 2" when the bullet passed through the wall, hitting him in the scrotum, where the folds of flesh hid the entry wound and instead left a mark looking more like a bruise.

Det. Scott Apple said it is unusual for a gunshot wound to be undetectable to the naked eye, but not completely unheard of - he said other areas of the body, the nostril or the back of the mouth can obscure an entry wound.

The bleeding was all internal, and when he was found lying on the floor the next day with no marks on his body, it looked like nothing more than an untimely natural death.

When the autopsy was done, Dr. Tommy Brown, then Jefferson County's forensic pathologist, saw internal damage that belied the notion of a natural death.

Brown too was misled by the lack of an obvious bullet wound. He noted a laceration at the entry wound, but he misinterpreted it.

Brown speculated that the injuries had derived from a beating, specifically a very powerful kick to Fleniken's groin and a blow to the chest, so Apple began interviewing potential witnesses for any evidence of a dispute or grudge against Fleniken, who proved to be well liked.

The investigation

Mueller, Steinmetz and Pasano were persons of interest in the investigation early on, and as it continued, it seemed increasingly obvious the three knew more than they were saying, Apple said, but a physical link to Fleniken's death proved elusive. Adding to the difficulty was the fact that the three lived in Wisconsin, and were not readily available for questioning.

As the case lingered on, frustrated, Fleniken's widow hired a prominent Florida-based private investigator, Ken Brennan.

Brennan worked in cooperation with Apple, and while going over the investigation together, they visited Paul Noyola, an investigator with the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office, who suggested they talk to people who worked with the three electricians that had been in room 349 that night.

One of them, Aaron Bourque, said Mueller, visibly upset, had confided in him not long after the incident that he'd discharged a gun in the room, and the next day they'd taken a dead man from the room next door.

After that, Apple and Brennan went back to room 348, Brennan noticed a mark on the wall where it had been repaired. It looked like it could have been the place where the door handle hit the wall, but it was off by several inches. After that, the evidence began to line up and make sense.

They went into room 349 and found that a hole in the wall there had been patched up with toothpaste and toilet paper.

Although the body had been cremated and Fleniken's clothes destroyed, there was still a forensics record to consult. They went back over the autopsy photos, finding what Brown agreed was a bullet hole in Fleniken's heart.

They went to Wisconsin to talk to Steinmetz again, who again denied knowing anything and didn't mention the gunshot. Then they put the heat on, telling him they knew what had happened, and that he should come clean.

Steinmetz broke down and told them what had happened.

Apple said in hindsight, a clue to the homicide presented itself the first day, but as it was during the time when investigators thought the death was natural, he overlooked it.

He and some other officers were standing in the hallway waiting for Fleniken's body to be picked up for transport to the morgue when Mueller and Steinmetz arrived at their room, and there was an awkward pause, where no one said anything.

Just to break the ice, Apple said, "How's it going?"

"I was doing better till now," Mueller responded.

Now Apple sees they were scared and nervous.

But at the time he dismissed it.

"I guess he just doesn't like the police," he said he thought.

SCMoore@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/Daily_Tiger
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On Easter Sunday, at the Spanish land-grant ranch in Stowell, about 60 members of the W.S. Edwards family will gather for a "last hurrah" photo, the 70th annual snapshot to grace the family's Christmas cards.

The first one, in 1946, featured "Mr. Billy" and his wife, "Miss Evie," and their oldest son, Sandy, who turns 70 in June.

The photo shoot has grown a little since then, as Sandy became the oldest sibling of nine boys and four girls.

Then came brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and children, children, children across the span of seven decades.

It's not a bad record for Mr. Billy, who was an only child.

He lived from 1923 to 2013, and Miss Evie, the matriarch, from 1924 to 1995.

The Christmas cards, not just group photos, but thoroughly designed works of art with intricate compositions of the family, all directly tied to Mr. Billy and Miss Evie, captured the sons and daughters and their spouses and progeny from youth to the higher branches on the family tree.

Stevie Edwards, owner and operator of Seafood Lover, born in 1955, said the top-to-bottom age difference among his siblings is 20 years.

For many of the years, the family had to cobble together individual or smaller family groups to come up with the Christmas card.

Kim Brent

The final take, so to speak, will be just the third group photo since 1995, the year Miss Evie died.

Anne Johnson, an Edwards daughter and Stevie's sister, has handled the logistics since 1976.

"My mother organized the picture every year. She liked us to dress alike and nobody questioned her desires. She made it all happen with precision. If you didn't like it, you kept your mouth shut," she said.

Stevie Edwards said he was told what to wear - or what not to wear - this year. A solid-colored shirt, no stripes or plaids.

Why is a great family tradition coming to an end?

"After my father died, it seemed like a perfect time to stop," Johnson said. "Then we had new babies coming in. We wanted them in a picture. Then the family voted to stop at 70 years."

The family is using Lisa Ray Photography. She has already walked around the ranch for the best location, including a Plan B in case of rain.

"She told us, 'This will be a forever pic,'" Johnson said. "There are 13 children - all of whom are alive - and their children and grandchildren - mom and dad's great-grandchildren. Some of the younger ones are speaking up and asking, 'Why stop?' Maybe they'll keep it going."

The family chose Easter for the picture because it's a holiday, not in the summer when everyone is busy with vacation plans, or in the fall, when kids are at school and involved with fall events.

When there were fewer and everyone lived closer, a picture could be take at Thanksgiving and turned into a Christmas card fairly quickly, Johnson said.

"Easter was the only time we could do this," she said, speaking en route from her home in Austin to Stowell.

Family will arrive from at least four states, the District of Columbia, and from far-flung points within Texas.

Last year, the Edwards family sent out 1,600 Christmas cards.

"This will be the last gathering for everyone," Edwards said. "It's been quite awhile for everyone to be there."

Johnson offered some hope for the future.

"Maybe this will continue," she said.

See the Edwards family through the years in the gallery above.

DWallach@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/dwallach
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For only the second time in five years, the number of people who moved into Jefferson County last year exceeded the number who left, but it was not enough to boost a Southeast Texas population that remained stagnant as much of Texas thrived, according to Census estimates released Thursday.

The Beaumont-Port Arthur metro area, which includes Jefferson, Orange, Hardin and Newton counties, added just 2,800 residents in the one-year period ending July 2015, according to Census Bureau estimates.

The less than 1 percent change brought the area's population to 408,000.

Four Texas metro areas - those anchored by Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio - collectively added about 412,000 people in the one-year span.

The Houston and Dallas metro areas ranked Nos. 1 and 2 in population growth among U.S. cities last year, according to the Census Bureau.

Beaumont-Port Arthur's modest increase was almost evenly split between a natural change - the number of births and deaths - and a migration change, the number of people who come or go.

The data released Thursday offer a glimpse roughly eight months into the past, back when the area reported a 2,400 year-to-year uptick in employment.

Since 2010, Jefferson County's population has grown by just 2,000 residents, about 400 fewer than Orange County, whose 3 percent growth rate makes it the fastest-growing Southeast Texas county in that span.

Dragging down a 5,700-person natural growth in Jefferson County over that time has been a net loss of 3,500 people moving away.

Those people are not necessarily moving to Hardin County or elsewhere in Southeast Texas, whose three other counties netted a migration gain of just 1,370.

Newton County was the only metro area county to see an overall population decrease in the past year, with its population declining by 160, according to the Census estimates.

The rural county's population has dropped by 460 people, or 3 percent, since 2010.

EBesson@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/EricBesson_news
The folks at Dictionary.com have released a list of the words that college students are looking up most on its reference site.

Theyve listed a number of the top colleges across the country, including many in Texas, where Texas A&M students seem to have trouble with the spelling of the word computer," or at least need the exact definition of it.
Lexington (Neb.) Regional Health Center opened an outpatient facility today, according to the Washington Times.

Here are five points:

1. The hospital has spent nearly two years on the project to expand and renovate a wing into an outpatient service center.

2. The facility is more than 31,000 square feet.

3. In April 2014, Lexington Health Center broke ground on the facility.

4. The center is equipped with three operating rooms, nine pre- and post-op recovery rooms, two endoscopy procedure rooms as well as four pods designated for visiting physician specialty clinics.

5. A $15 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a $5 million bank loan, state and federal tax credits and private donations funded the project.

More articles on surgery centers:

SSM Health opens $10M outpatient center: 5 things to know

Mercy Health Youngstown in Ohio to break ground on new ASC: 5 things to know

Aurora Health Care to open $83M outpatient center 5 things to know
Here are seven updates:

Medical Facilities Corp. names Britt Reynolds CEO

Equipped with 28 years of experience in hospital and health services management, Mr. Reynolds will work to build on the company's existing business and seek new opportunities in the U.S. market. Mr. Reynolds will assume his role on June 1, 2016.

NY legislation would allow physician collective bargaining

The New York legislature is considering collective bargaining legislation that would give physicians leverage when negotiating payer contracts. So far, the legislation passed the New York Senate and has been sent to the Assembly and the Governor for approval.

AAAASF elects Dr. William Rosenblatt to executive committee

The American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities elected William B. Rosenblatt, MD, to the executive committee on March 5. Previously, Dr. Rosenblatt served in elected positions on the Medical Society of the State of New York, New York County Medical Society and New York Regional Plastic Surgery Society.

Disciplinary action against physicians varies by state

Ann Arbor-based University of Michigan researchers found disciplinary action against physicians differs by state. Delaware has the highest punishment rate and Massachusetts has the lowest.

SSM Health opens $10M outpatient center

St. Louis-based SSM Health, a Catholic, nonprofit health system, opened a $10.4 million outpatient clinic in Wentzville, Mo. The 22,000-square-foot facility will offer primary and specialty services.

Mercy Health Youngstown in Ohio to break ground on new ASC

Mercy Health Youngstown (Ohio) will break ground on a new outpatient ambulatory facility next to Howland Surgery Center. The $14.5 million facility will focus on orthopedics, physical medicine and ENT.

Hendrick Medical Center, physicians to construct Hendrick Surgery Center

Abilene, Texas-based Hendrick Medical Center and Abilene and Brownwood (Texas) physicians are creating a joint venture outpatient surgery center in Brownwood. Hendrick Surgery Center physicians will provide otolaryngology, gastroenterology, orthopedics, podiatry, urology, gynecology, ophthalmology, pain management and plastic surgery services.

More healthcare news:

The case for outpatient total hips: Q&A with Northern Wyoming Surgical Center's Todd Currier

Emails show Olympus hiked up duodenoscope price 28% after CRE outbreak at UCLA: 8 key notes

SSM Health opens $10M outpatient center: 5 things to know
Earlier in March, Cleveland Clinic's Marymount Hospital's Ambulatory Surgery Center in Garfield Heights, Ohio, celebrated its 18th year of operation.

Here are four things to know:

1. Since it opened, the ASC grew from four operating rooms to five.

2. The surgery center offers care in a wide-array of specialties, however for the last two years or so, the ASC's physicians have been focusing on orthopedic cases.

3. The ASC was the site of more than 3,200 surgical cases across all specialties.

4. The ASC also has the ability to provide 23-hour stays.
A year after its merger with Tucson-based University of Arizona Health Network, Phoenix-based Banner Health is investing $500 million on several major projects at or near Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix, formerly known as Good Samaritan Medical Center, according to The Arizona Republic.

Those projects include a $179 million emergency department, a $239 million patient tower and a $50 million clinical space near the hospital, according to the report. Banner Health expects the emergency department to open in July 2017, and the patient tower to open in late 2018.

The system is also investing $500 million to build a new hospital and clinic in Tucson, Ariz. The new hospital is being referred to as a replacement for Banner-University Medical Center Tucson, one of the two existing hospitals Banner acquired from UAHN through the merger.

Banner Health also plans to build a new 200,000-square-foot outpatient clinic adjacent to the University of Arizona Cancer Center's North Campus in Tucson.

More articles on finance and revenue cycle management:

Illinois owes roughly $2.8B in healthcare debt: 4 things to know

Congressional budget analysts adjust ACA enrollment estimate to 12M: 5 things to know

UVM Health Network wants to pass along $15M in excess revenue
Springfield, Mass.-based Baystate Health intends to discontinue inpatient services at Ware, Mass.-based Mary Lane Hospital June 1, according to The Republican.

The system is seeking state approval to transform Mary Lane Hospital into a regional center for outpatient services. Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer, Mass., would become a regional center for inpatient services.

Baystate announced its plan to discontinue inpatient services at Mary Lane Hospital last November, but the Massachusetts Department of Public Health only recently released the proposed date for the transition to occur.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has scheduled a public hearing Tuesday on the Baystate proposal, according to the report.

More articles on healthcare finance:

Physicians who receive lots of pharma cash prescribe more brand-name drugs, study finds

Presence CEO says poor collections to blame for $186M operating loss

House Republicans unveil 2017 budget: 7 things for healthcare leaders to know
A new development has unfolded in the case against Arthur and Elizabeth Rathburn, the now-estranged married couple charged earlier this year for renting diseased human body parts to medical and dental students.

From January 2007 to December 2013, authorities say the cadaver-dealing duo ran International Biological in Detroit. The company purchased donated bodies from biological resource centers and rented them to researchers. The couple lied to their customers, saying the bodies were disease-free when they knew the remains had tested positive for hepatitis and HIV, among other diseases.

Last week, Ms. Rathburn agreed to a plea deal  she pleaded guilty to wire fraud and agreed to testify against Mr. Rathburn, according to The Washington Post. As part of the deal, she admitted that in 2012, Ms. Rathburn took body parts contaminated with hepatitis B and HIV to an American Society of Anesthesiologists conference in Washington and claimed they were disease-free.

Here are six things to know about the Michigan couple and their case.

1. Mr. Rathburn was a former employee of the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, where he was responsible for tagging corpses and setting them up for students. Sometimes he was responsible for arranging the shipment of the bodies to other medical schools, as well as to brokers. Mr. Rathburn was eventually fired from his job at the university for allegedly selling bodies for profit.

2. According to the Detroit Free Press, in 1989, Mr. Rathburn became an independent body broker. He dismembered the bodies with a chainsaw, stored the parts and prepared them for shipping, while Ms. Rathburn took orders from customers, according to The Washington Post.

3. Mr. Rathburn attracted public attention when he was mentioned in a book called Body Brokers: Inside America's Underground Trade in Human Remains, but it wasn't until federal authorities caught wind of "bizarre shipments arriving for Rathburn at Metro airport, including a bucket full of human heads that arrived from Israel one year," that they began investigating him, according to the report.

4. Mr. and Ms. Rathburn "sometimes obtained diseased remains from their suppliers at a reduced cost, due to the fact that end users of human remains generally reject infectious bodies and body parts for use in medical or dental training," the indictment read, according to the report. The couple then "falsely [represented] to those customers that the remains were free of certain infectious diseases," the indictment said.

5. Court documents stated Mr. Rathburn increased profitability by not complying with standardized sanitation practices. For instance, he dismembered the bodies without taking sanitary precautions. He also "stored human heads by stacking them directly on top of each other without any protective barrier, apparently disregarding any risk of cross-contamination between infectious and non-infectious remains," the indictment read, according to the report. Pools of frozen blood and bodily fluids were found in the freezers.

6. The Rathburns were indicted in January on 13 counts, including wire fraud, aiding and abetting, transporting hazardous material and making false statements. If convicted, Mr. Rathburn could face up to 20 years in prison. Under the plea deal, Ms. Rathburn agreed to pay $55,225 in restitution to the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Her sentencing is set for July 18. She faces up to 10 months in prison, according to the report.
Deborah Craven, 60, filed a lawsuit against surgeons at Yale New Haven (Conn.) Hospital for removing part of the wrong rib. While the suit aims to hold her surgeons accountable for the mistake, there is another reason Ms. Craven felt pressed to take legal action  she never received an apology.

"No one apologized," said Joel Faxon, Ms. Craven's attorney, according to CNN. "And they never explained to her how the mistake was made."

While Yale said it informed and apologized to the patient about the mistake, Ms. Craven's attorney said she never received an apology, and further, claimed one of her surgeons tried to cover up the error, CNN reported.

The simple desire to hear the words "I'm sorry" and an explanation of medical mistakes is driving a movement to encourage hospitals and physicians to shift away from the "deny and defend" approach toward a more empathetic "acknowledge and apologize" one, according to the report.

Supporters of the movement argue apologizing after medical errors is not only the morally right thing to do, but it can also save hospitals money.

In some states, expressions of sympathy, condolences or apologies may be admissible before courts as possible evidence of wrongdoing or guilt in medical malpractice cases. Many physicians are advised or even ordered to withhold such statements to patients and their families. However, in an effort to reduce medical liability and malpractice lawsuits and litigation expenses, legislators and policymakers in 36 states, Washington, D.C., and Guam have passed "I'm sorry" laws to exclude apologies or expressions of sympathy from being used against medical professionals in the courtroom.

When people feel listened to and empathized with, they are more likely to negotiate a settlement and less likely to file a lawsuit that could result in a significantly higher malpractice award from a jury, advocates of "I'm sorry" laws told CNN.

"I think the perception is that people just want money, and I think that's wrong," Leilani Schweitzer, assistant vice president of communication and resolution for The Risk Authority Stanford, said in a TEDx Talk, according to CNN. "Suing is difficult, it's painful and it's time-consuming and expensive. It's not a small thing to file a lawsuit. People hire lawyers because they feel deceived and abandoned."

In Ms. Craven's case, what she and her attorney have called a "cover up" by her surgeons has only made matters worse. After she was discharged from the hospital, Ms. Craven attempted to "resolve the matter informally," but "a Yale legal representative told her 'the case was not significant enough' for their involvement," her attorney said.

Mr. Faxon said Ms. Craven is still waiting for an explanation of why her surgeons operated on the wrong rib.
One patient and three crew members died in a medical helicopter crash on Saturday in Coffee County, Ala., according to the Dothan Eagle.

A Haynes Life Flight helicopter that departed from Troy (Ala.) Regional Medical Center crashed while airlifting an unconscious patient with a broken leg sustained in a single-vehicle car accident. The team was attempting to transport the patient to Baptist Medical Center in Montgomery, Ala.

According to CNN, the victims have been identified as pilot Chad Hammond, flight nurse Stacey Cernadas, RN, flight medic Jason Snipes and patient Zach Strickland.

The exact cause of the accident is being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, according to Alabama Public Radio.

Haynes Ambulance is a family-owned company now based out of Montgomery. According to a local NBC news affiliate, in October Haynes Life Flight expanded, adding a helicopter and base at Troy Regional Medical Center to support 10 southern Alabama counties.

Teresa Grimes, CEO of Troy Regional, said in a Facebook post that the hospital "is saddened" by the tragic loss of life involved in the incident, APR reports.
Washington (Pa.) Health System will soon be hiring its own police officers to monitor its facilities, according to the Observer-Reporter.

An order allowing the health system to do so was signed last week by Washington County Judge Gary Gilman, who also appointed 13 candidates for the health system's police force.

According to health system spokeswoman Stephanie Wagoner, there wasn't a specific event that initiated the WHS' interest in hiring officers.

"Transforming from an internal security department to a hospital police department will enable Washington Health System to expand our protective and investigative services in cooperation with state and local agencies and in accordance with Pennsylvania law," Ms. Wagoner said in an email, according to the report.

Although WHS has not given a definitive start date for the police officers, Ms. Wagoner said the system expects to begin its plan July 1.

More news and analysis:

Husband and wife 'cadaver dealers' charged for renting disease-ridden bodies to medical students

A dozen people have left Google's Verily in a year  here's why

Medical helicopter crash kills crew and patient in Alabama
The standard method of criminalizing drugs is actually harming public health, not improving it, leading physicians from around the world said last week, according to Reuters.

Countries such as Portugal and the CzechRepublic have demonstrated that decriminalizing non-violent acts such as possession and petty sale have produced significant health benefits and cost savings, according to a report by the Lancet and Baltimore-based JohnsHopkinsUniversity. This policy has not increased problem drug use, the report said, according to Reuters.

These findings come at a critical time, as the U.N. General Assembly will hold a special session on drugs in April, at which time it will reconsider the global approach to illicit drugs for the first time since 1998, according to the report.

Instead of prohibiting drugs and jailing users, the report's authors instead recommend an evidence-based approach focused on lowering drug-related harm by lessening the violence associated with it, as well as health risks, such as the spread of HIV and hepatitis through sharing needles, according to Reuters.

"Policies meant to prohibit or greatly suppress drugs present a paradox," the report said. "They are portrayed and defended vigorously by many policymakers as necessary to preserve public health and safety, and yet the evidence suggests that they have contributed directly and indirectly to lethal violence, communicable-disease transmission, discrimination, forced displacement, unnecessary physical pain and the undermining of people's right to health."
The Massachusetts opioid epidemic is growing rapidly, but resources may not be appropriately distributed across the state to help address the issue, according to an analysis from the commonwealth's Health Policy Commission.

The commission found opioid-related hospital visits  including inpatient admissions, observation stays and emergency department visits  nearly doubled between 2007 and 2014 to more than 55,000 annually. Most of these visits are related to non-heroin opioids. However, the small fraction of heroin-related hospital visits is growing fast. The analysis shows a sharp uptick of 201 percent in heroin-related visits between 2007 and 2014, indicating more Massachusetts residents are turning to a less expensive alternative to prescription opioids.

The analysis shows the severity of the issue varies widely across the state. Some of the worst regions in terms of opioid-related hospital visits include East Merrimack, Metro South, New Bedford and the Berkshires, but there are hot spots located all over the state, including Boston and Worcester.

Part of the issue is that medication-assisted treatment  which has been shown to reduce inpatient admission rates, addiction and infectious disease transmission  is not widely accessible across the state and patients frequently must travel more than five miles to access it, according to the HPC analysis. It also shows the availability of such treatment varies by region of the state, but not necessarily in proportion to the magnitude of the epidemic.

For example, the Berkshires region, which has a 70 percent higher rate of opioid-related hospital visits than the state average, also has comparatively long travel times for patients seeking treatment. There are three types of medication-assisted treatment: naltrexone, buprenorphine and methadone. The Berkshires region has no naltrexone providers, while 33 percent of patients have to travel more than five miles to a buprenorphine provider and 39 percent must travel more than five miles for a methadone provider.

Without these programs in areas where they are needed most, patients are left to turn to the hospital for opioid-related issues. The majority of the bill for these inpatient admissions  75 percent  is footed by the federal and state governments through Medicare, Medicaid and other government programs.

In particular, infants born with neonatal abstinence syndrome due to exposure to opioids in the womb puts a significant financial strain on hospitals, according to the report. Infants born with NAS has increased more than five-fold between 2004 and 2013. The mean hospital charge for an infant with NAS is $66,700, compared to the $3,500 national average total cost of care for uncomplicated term infants, according to the report. Mean hospital charges for infants with NAS that are pharmacologically treated soar to $93,400, according to the analysis.

Based on these findings, the HPC is issuing a report focusing on the availability of medication-assisted treatments, best practices to treat infants with NAS, and recommendations to address Massachusetts' opioid crisis.

More articles on population health:

How to adapt a community health worker model for outpatient settings

4 things to know about the case for supervised-injection centers

RWJF announces $2.6M grant to improve nutrition in underserved communities
Director Courteney Cox and musician Johnny McDaid attend the Los Angeles Special Screening of "Just Before I Go" at ArcLight Hollywood on April 20, 2015 in Hollywood, California.

Back on? Johnny and Courteney were engaged for almost two years.

Snow Patrol's Johnny McDaid and ex-finance, the Friends star Courteney Cox, have been snapped together shopping in America, sparking rumours they are back together.

The pair were spotted for the first time since their December split in Malibu while out on Easter Sunday, the Daily Mail reported.

The paper said the two, who were accompanied by the American's daughter Coco, looked happy and content together.

McDaid, 39 and the 51-year-old actress were engaged in June 2014.

However, they called the relationship off over reports of differences over where to live and how they handled life in the spotlight.

Celebrity website TMZ claimed he wanted to return to live in the UK with Cox more content to remain in America. There were also rumours the Derry man was uncomfortable in the limelight.

The separation was said to be amicable with sources saying the two would often exchange friendly text messages.

Following the split, it was reported that McDaid was dating the former MTV presenter Meghann Scully, however, this was denied.
Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast Photo by Kevin Scott/Presseye

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Gerry Adams Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye.

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Gerry Adams Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

The Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Sectarianism and division in Ireland must be tackled if the vision of the 1916 Rising is to be realised, Gerry Adams has told a centenary commemoration in Belfast.

The Sinn Fein president addressed a crowd of thousands at Milltown Cemetery in the west of the city at the culmination of a parade organised by his party to mark the rebellion.

The Louth TD said 100 years on from the pivotal moment in Irish history much work was still needed to create the society envisaged in the leaders' proclamation of independence and heal divisions between unionists and nationalists.

"The peace process and the (1998) Good Friday Agreement marked a historic shift in politics on this island," he said. "For the first time the roots of conflict were addressed and a democratic route to Irish unity opened up.

"But there is much yet to be done. Hurts must be healed, divisions ended and the scourge of sectarianism must be tackled."

Crowds lined both sides of the Falls Road as the parade passed by with an Irish wolfhound called Tara at the lead.

Many participants dressed in military uniforms of the period, some carrying replica weapons.

The parade ended at the republican plot at Milltown Cemetery, where wreaths were laid. Among those to place a wreath was Sean Kelly, the man convicted of the IRA's Shankill Road bombing in 1993.

Mr Adams told the crowd: "For our part, the 1916 Proclamation remains the mission statement for Irish republicans today.

"It is a freedom charter for all the people of this island.

"The Proclamation is also a declaration of social and economic intent for a rights-based society."
A Co Down teenager with same-sex parents has appealed to his DUP MLA and Assembly members who voted against gay marriage, to explain their rationale.

Darragh Tibbs (15) made the appeal in an impassioned video on YouTube.

He says his same-sex parents have been together in a stable relationship for the past 20 years and have two sons.

In November, the Assembly voted in favour of legalising same-sex marriage.

However, a DUP petition of concern  meaning a separate majority of both unionists and nationalists was needed to succeed - blocked the motion.

Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK where same-sex marriage is not legal. The Republic of Ireland also voted in favour of legalising the unions in an historic referendum last year.

In his post, Darragh asks: "Northern Ireland led the way in LGBT equality  so what has changed?

"It seems perfectly reasonable to me that a democratic government should give all its citizens the same legal entitlements."

Darragh explains how he has written to his MLA, the DUP's North Down representative, Gordon Dunne asking him to explain why he voted against same-sex marriage.

"Mr Dunne is a straight man," continued Darragh.

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Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill (centre), known by his stage name as Panti Bliss has his photo taken with Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams and Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald (right) at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes continue to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA The sun shines as people gather at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Erin Reddy (left) and Dee Campbell at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PA A gay marriage supporter kisses her rosary beads at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Bridget Hogg with a cardboard cutout of comedy creation Mrs Brown at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Paul Bonass (left) and Luke Hoare Greene share a kiss at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Jaime Nanci (left) and Michael Barron who were married in Cape Town five years ago at the RDS in Dublin, re-act as early patterns suggest that the campaign to extend the right to marry to same-sex couples will succeed in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Sean O Tarpaigh, a yes campaigner and Irish language teacher, at the same-sex marriage referendum count centre at Dublin Castle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill, known by his stage name as Panti Bliss arrives at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes continue to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill, known by his stage name as Panti Bliss arrives at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes continue to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill, known by his stage name as Panti Bliss kisses Senator David Norris (left) as Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams looks on at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill (centre), known by his stage name as Panti Bliss with with Senator David Norris (left) and Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes continue to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Drag queen and gay rights activist Rory O'Neill, known by his stage name as Panti Bliss arrives at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin, as votes continue to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA People gather at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. Ireland is set to enshrine the right to gay marriage in a historic world first. Key campaign groups fighting the rights reform conceded defeat, with results from around the country indicating a two to one majority of voters backing the constitutional change. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Seven month old Belle Duffy, held by her mother Deirdre Duffy as counting of votes continues in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age at the RDS in Dublin. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA YES voter Deirdre Duffy and her seventh month old daughter Belle, with YES campaigners (from left) Kristina Vaughan, Mark Dempsey, and Ger O'Keeffe as counting of votes continues in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age at the RDS in Dublin. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Senator David Norris (right) with Andrew Hyland of YES Equality at the counting of votes in Irish referendum on same-sex marriage. Pic Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Ballot boxes are emptied as counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age is under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Official tally Rhonda Donaghy and James McGrath wait for counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age to get under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Sorcha Nic Mhathuna waits for counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age to get under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Official tally Rhonda Donaghy waits for counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age to get under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Ballot boxes are unlocked as counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age to get under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age gets under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Official tally Rhonda Donaghy and James McGrath wait for counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age to get under way at the RDS in Dublin this morning. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday May 23, 2015. See PA story IRISH GayMarriage. Photo credit should read: Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Senator David Norris arrives at the RDS as counting of votes in the referendums on same-sex marriage and presidential-age get under way at the RDS in Dublin.Brian Lawless/PA Wire PA Newly married couple Anne Fox (nee Cole) and Vincent Fox kiss to celebrate their wedding and also show their support for the Yes campaign in favour of same-sex marriage before casting their votes at a polling station on May 22, 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images Newly married couple Anne Fox (nee Cole) and Vincent Fox celebrate their wedding day by showing their support for the Yes campaign in favour of same-sex marriage as they cast their votes at a polling station on May 22, 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images Carmelite sisters leave a polling station in Malahide, County Dublin, Ireland, Friday, May 22, 2015. AP A gay couple pose holding hands as they walk out of a polling station after voting in Drogheda, north Dublin on May 22, 2015. Ireland took to the polls today to vote on whether same-sex marriage should be legal, in a referendum that has exposed sharp divisions between communities in this traditionally Catholic nation. AFP PHOTO / Paul FaithPAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Civil partners of four years Paul Higgins (left) and Richard Lucey, who have been in a relationship together for 19 years, prepare to cast their votes at their polling station in Cabra, Dublin for the referendum on gay marriage. PA A homeless person lays beneath a billboard poster promoting the Yes campaign in favour of same-sex marriage on May 22, 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images A man walks past billboard posters promoting the Yes campaign in favour of same-sex marriage on May 22, 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images A man walks past a mural promoting the Yes campaign in favour of same-sex marriage on May 22, 2015 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images) Getty Images Pedestrians walk past a mural in favour of same-sex marriages in Dublin. AFP/Getty Images Members of the Yes Equality campaign gather in the center of Dublin, Ireland. People from across the Republic of Ireland will vote in a referendum on the legalization of gay marriage, a vote that pits the power of the Catholic Church against the secular-minded Irish government of Enda Kenny. AP 16/5/2015.Marriage Equality Referendum. With just six days to go for the voting on the Marriage Equality Referendum on Friday 22 of May, the debate about margins continues with the Yes Vote appearing to be way out in front, particularly in the large cities, but with a fear that in the countryside there may be a large silent No Vote lingering in the long grass. Photo shows people passing a large Yes poster in Dublin City Centre.Photo Eamonn Farrell/Photocall Ireland Photocall Ireland USI (Union of Students in Ireland) launches 'VoterMotor' a campaign to get the student vote out for the Marriage Equality Referendum. Sister Loreto Ryan of the Sisters of Charity casts her vote at a polling station in Drumcondra, north Dublin on May 22, 2015. Ireland took to the polls today to vote on whether same-sex marriage should be legal, in a referendum that has exposed sharp divisions between communities in this traditionally Catholic nation. AFP/Getty Images Sister Loreto Ryan of the Sisters of Charity leaves after voting at a polling station in Drumcondra, north Dublin on May 22, 2015. Ireland took to the polls today to vote on whether same-sex marriage should be legal, in a referendum that has exposed sharp divisions between communities in this traditionally Catholic nation. AFP/Getty Images Tanaiste Joan Burton arrives to cast her vote at St Joseph's National School in Cabra, Dublin for the referendum on gay marriage. PA Tanaiste Joan Burton arrives to cast her vote at St Joseph's National School in Cabra, Dublin for the referendum on gay marriage. PA Sinn Fein's Mary Lou McDonald casts her vote at St Joseph's National School in Cabra, Dublin for the referendum on gay marriage. PA Posters in favour of same-sex marriage sit in the window of a clothing shop in Dublin on May 21, 2015. AFP/Getty Images A mural in favour of same-sex marriage is pictured on a wall in Dublin on May 21, 2015. AFP/Getty Images Pedestrians walk past anti same-sex marriage posters in Dublin on May 21, 2015. Ireland goes to the polls tomorrow to vote on whether same-sex marriage should be legal, in a referendum that has exposed sharp divisions between communities in this traditionally Catholic nation. AFP PHOTO / PAUL FAITHPAUL FAITH/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pedestrians walk past a mural in favour of same-sex marriages in Dublin. AFP/Getty Images A Mural in favour of same-sex marriages in Dublin on May 21, 2015. Ireland goes to the polls tomorrow to vote on whether same-sex marriage should be legal, in a referendum that has exposed sharp divisions between communities in this traditionally Catholic nation. AFP/Getty Images Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny arrives to meet with members of the Yes Equality campaign during a photo call in Dublin, Ireland. The Irish Prime Minister is appealing to Ireland's voters to support the legalization of gay marriage in a referendum that pits the power of the Catholic Church against his government. AP Declan Waters, owner of the Holy Love Information Centre, adjust his Irish flag as it flys above anti same-sex "Vote No" posters in Knock, west Ireland. In the village of Knock in the west of Ireland, support for a "No" vote in the May 22 same-sex marriage referendum is strong, as it is in many rural areas where the Catholic Church still holds sway. AFP/Getty Images A woman walks past anti same-sex "Vote No" posters in Knock, west Ireland. In the village of Knock in the west of Ireland, support for a "No" vote in the May 22 same-sex marriage referendum is strong, as it is in many rural areas where the Catholic Church still holds sway. AFP/Getty Images Comedian Oliver Callan takes part in A Noble Call for Marriage Equality, an arts event in support of a Yes vote in Ireland's Gay marriage referendum, at the Abbey Theater in Dublin. PA / Facebook

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Whatsapp Erin Reddy, Dee Campbell and Helen McCarthy at the Central Count Centre in Dublin Castle, Dublin as votes are continued to be counted in the referendum on same-sex marriage.

"It is not as if the quiet streets of his North Down constituency will suddenly be filled with raving homosexuals."

Darragh then reads all the names of those MLAs to have voted against the bill.

"If they don't support same-sex marriage, then they don't support equality," he added.

Darragh's parents said the views expressed in the piece were his own personal opinions and they asked for no publicity resulting from it.

Gordon Dunne could not be reached for comment.

A DUP spokesman said: "The party supports the traditional definition of marriage of one man and one woman.

"And we have voted along those lines many times.

"We don't believe marriage should be redfined."
Marie Boyles parents Brian and Briege Boyle died along with their daughter Sasha in a fire at the family home in Rostrevor

A model from Northern Ireland who lost three members of her family in a devastating house fire on her 21st birthday has said she was left heartbroken again after the Buncrana pier tragedy.

Both Marie Boyle's parents - Brian (50) and Briege (48) - and her sister Sasha (28) died in the Rostrevor blaze in January 1999 after they had celebrated the occasion.

Marie escaped through a skylight, helped by neighbours.

She left Northern Ireland for London after the tragedy and enjoyed a career in modelling and acting.

She has now moved home to give her four-year-old daughter Erin the same childhood experience she enjoyed in Co Down.

But Marie said the Co Donegal accident in which five members of a Londonderry family perished had brought back sad memories.

Louise James lost her partner Sean McGrotty, two sons Mark (12) and Evan (8), as well as her mother Ruth Daniels (59) and sister Jodi-Lee (14), when their car slid into the water from a slipway in Buncrana last Sunday.

"My heart is broken for them," Ms Boyle said.

"My brother Shane and I spoke about it and we're both really shocked.

"It's so sad to think another family has been wiped out. Our hearts go out to the family and to everyone involved. It's so harrowing.

"After the fire everyone came together for us, not just Northern Ireland but other countries. We got cards from people who'd just put our first names on the envelope, and that got us through."

Speaking to Sunday Life, Ms Boyle said it was the memories of the loving home her parents created that helped her get through her own tragic loss, as well as inspiring her return home.

"My heart is still broken and always will be broken," she said. "What we lost was huge and the stuff of nightmares, but I think we are doing really, really well, myself and my brother Shane and our family.

"I came from a family that was all about love and fun and we were all very close. It was a good springboard to set us up for the rest of our years."
Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured a members of the RSF colour party addresses crowd gathered at St Colman's Cemetery Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured a man lays a wreath at the Republican Plot of St Colman's Cemetery Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured members of the RSF colour party march through the streets of the Kilwilkee Estate Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured members of the RSF colour party march through the streets of the Kilwilkee Estate

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured members of the RSF colour party march at St Colman's Cemetery Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured members of the RSF colour party march through the streets of the Kilwilkee Estate Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

McBurney/Members of Republican Sinn Fein commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pictured a members of the RSF colour party addresses crowd gathered at St Colman's Cemetery Date: Saturday 26 March 2016 Location: Kilwilkee Estate, Lurgan Credit: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Copyright: Liam McBurney/RAZORPIX Liam McBurney +44 7837 685767 +44 2890 660676 liammcburney@gmail.com

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 26, Pictured is the Republican Sinn Fein commemorative march as it makes its way from the Kilwilkee Estate to St Colemans Cemetary on March 26, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

Pacemaker Press 26/3/2016 Masked Men during a Republican Sinn Fein Parade in Lurgan on Saturday, To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Picture Pacemaker

The widow of a PSNI officer who was shot dead by dissidents has said a show of strength by masked republicans in Lurgan "should never have happened".

Stephen Carroll was the first PSNI officer to be killed when he was shot dead in Craigavon in March 2009 as he responded to a 999 call.

On Saturday masked men made their way from the Kilwilkee estate to St Colman's Cemetery.

The men were dressed in paramilitary uniforms and were carrying republican flags.

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Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph yesterday, Kate Carroll said: "This time of year was always going to be controversial, but Easter is meant to be a holiday time and a time for children to enjoy. We don't need this type of activity. This is not needed and it should never have happened."

She hit out at the actions by the masked men who appeared as part of an Easter Rising commemoration parade.

She added: "If this was a show of strength and they were out marching, why didn't they march without their masks. If they feel that they are fighting a war, why not come out like proper soldiers and show their faces?"

Local unionist politicians called on the police to take action.

Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon District DUP councillor Carla Lockhart condemned those who staged what she termed a "republican show of strength".

"This is deeply concerning. The days of masked men parading through our streets should be gone.

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"This has no place in the new Northern Ireland," she said.

First Minister Arlene Foster said she had warned that dissident republicans would use the events of Easter 1916 to legitimise their warped actions in 2016.

"This is further proof I was right," she said. "Violence was always wrong."

Police were not present at the parade but it was observed from above by a PSNI helicopter.

TUV Assembly candidate Roy Ferguson said: "The events on Saturday afternoon underscored once again that there are parts of Lurgan where republicans effectively do as they please.

"This is totally unacceptable and I will be contacting the PSNI to demand an explanation as to why the terrorist show of strength was permitted to take place and how they propose to bring those involved before the courts."

PSNI Superintendent Paul Reid said: "Police are aware of a small unnotified parade which took place in the Kilwilkie area of Lurgan on Saturday afternoon, March 26. Organisers of parades are required to give formal notification of their intentions.

"An investigation into this incident is under way and enquiries are ongoing."

Meanwhile, a masked man has said the Continuity IRA, which claimed the murder of Mr Carroll, will continue its attacks on the security forces.

Speaking at a commemoration in Carrickmore, Co Tyrone, on Saturday he said: "We pledge our resolve to continue the struggle against British rule. The volunteers of the Continuity Irish Republican Army will continue to strike at will at the British forces of occupation. That is the most fitting tribute we can make to the men and women of 1916."
An Easter Rising anniversary row erupted last night after unionists slammed republican flag displays and a tribute to Roger Casement near a war memorial.

A massive Tricolour - estimated at being 60ft across - was attached to scaffolding at Castlewellan Library and covered up a war memorial.

Alan Lewis from South Down Ukip said: "This is how republicans choose to respect the local community and their unionist neighbours.

"It seems that Sinn Fein's equality agenda has completely gone out the window as they hurry to glorify their failed rebellion. If this total lack of respect is a glimpse into the united Ireland that republicans so desire, it is no wonder that unionists in this country want absolutely no part of it."

Meanwhile, Belfast DUP councillor Frank McCoubrey condemned those who erected IRA D Company flags on the Falls Road Jobs and Benefits office in west Belfast.

Mr McCoubrey said: "This is a Government building. Flags promoting a terrorist organisation should not be on the building or within its curtilage.

"The flags are a disgrace in and of themselves, but to erect them on Government property is nothing more than an attempt to antagonise and intimidate. I will certainly work to ensure the flags are removed."

It follows a recent row over similar IRA flags erected outside the Millfield campus of Belfast Metropolitan College.

Sinn Fein councillor Niall O'Donnghaile tweeted a picture outside the jobs office on Sunday with a caption: 'Patriot dead families receive the salute from the Easter Guard of Honour'.

Elsewhere, DUP MLA Peter Weir said he was "shocked and dismayed" after claiming Mr O'Donnghaile left a tribute to republican hero Casement at a U-boat gun beside a war memorial in Ward Park, Bangor.

Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close The Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Gerry Adams Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Picture - Kevin Scott / Presseye Gerry Adams Belfast , UK - March 27, Pictured is the Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye ) Kevin Scott / Presseye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. The parade began at Divis Tower at noon and made its way to the republican plot in Milltown Cemetery. Those marching are we aring period dress, and the parade includes horse-drawn carriages, uniforms, memorabilia of the time and flute bands. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast Photo by Kevin Scott/Presseye Kevin Scott / Presseye Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th March 2016 Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. Hundreds of people line the streets of west Belfast for a parade marking the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising. Picture by Jonathan Porter Press Eye. / Facebook

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Whatsapp The Centenary 1916 Easter Commemoration parade as it makes its way along the Falls Road in Belfast on March 27, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Presseye )

"This is a disgraceful stunt. I am glad to say that the memorial notice was quickly removed but it should never have been there. It was a provocative act which ran the risk of stirring up tension," Mr Weir said.
The Gobbins coastal path will not reopen in time for the Easter holidays, it has been revealed.

The historic cliffside walk was closed on December 30, just months after it was launched, after storm damage and a landslip.

Almost 400 bookings for January and February had to be cancelled afterwards.

And it looks like more people will be left disappointed after the target date to reopen the attraction was pushed back to May.

East Antrim MLAs said they were disappointed and urged increased efforts to have the path up and running for summer.

But Mid and East Antrim Council, which runs the attraction, said the damage caused had been "unforeseeable".

The council is installing a new drainage system it hopes will ease any future problems. It said its main priority was the health and safety of visitors and staff and denied there was any issue with contractors over liability.

MLA Gordon Lyons said: "It is disappointing because the Gobbins is a major part of the east Antrim tourist offering. My understanding is it has taken longer than thought to open the attraction as a result of the installation of a drainage system.

"This is obviously taking some time, but if it more effectively deals with heavy rainfall and storms, it will be worth it.

"The key thing for the council is to ensure it is open as soon as possible so that it can make the most of the summer period."

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson added: "From what I have been told, there were two very severe winter storms, and it is estimated that some 3,000 tonnes of rock and soil fell from above on to the path.

"It is very disappointing for visitors as well as locals and tourists coming into east Antrim this Easter. However, safety must come first, and regrettable as it is I do understand this decision."

The council said: "Landslips are common in the north Antrim coast area because of the geology.

"They are caused when a sloping area of soil becomes saturated by water and loses its internal cohesion and/or adherence to the underlying rock, which allows it to slide or slump.

"Work has commenced to put in place a new drainage system that will help manage this, and repairs of the main access pathways will commence as soon as possible."
Sheila OLeary (94), whose parents were part of the GPO garrison. Picture Credit: Frank Mc Grath 27/3/16

Captain Peter Kelleher reads the Proclamation at the GPO. (Photo by Maxwells/Irish Government - Pool/Getty Images)

British ambassador Dominick Chilcott with former President of Ireland Mary McAleese and her husband Martin. Photo: Tony Gavin 27/3/2016

Crowds in Dublin at the Easter Rising Commemoration. (Photo by Maxwells/Irish Government - Pool/Getty Images)

Hundreds of thousands of people have lined the streets of Dublin for a huge military parade to mark 100 years since the Easter Rising against British rule.

In a centrepiece event as part of a year of commemorations marking one of the most defining episodes of Irish history, President Michael D Higgins laid a wreath outside the General Post Office, the former rebel headquarters.

The Easter Rising was a military failure for the revolutionaries, but it ultimately led to the War of Independence and the creation of the Irish Republic.

Acting Taoiseach Enda Kenny invited the Head of State to lay a wreath on behalf of the people of Ireland. In this centenary year, we honour the memory of those who died in 1916 with the respect and the dignity that is their due and we cherish 100 years later the principles and the ideal contained in our Proclamation for which they fought, he said.

A minutes silence was ended by a muffled drumbeat before The Last Post was sounded and the Tricolour, which flew at half-mast throughout the wreath-laying, was hoisted to full mast.

As the Army No 1 band played Reveille and national anthem Amhran na bhFiann, six Aer Corps aircraft flew 700 feet above the capitals main thoroughfare bellowing smoke in the green, white and orange colours of the national flag.

Despite forecasted rain the sun shone on the crowds packed into the city centre throughout.

After Captain Peter Kelleher re-enacted the reading of the Proclamation, spontaneous applause erupted from onlookers.

Former Presidents Mary McAleese and Mary Robinson, former Taoisigh Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen, as well as Stormont Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and British ambassador to Ireland Dominick Chilcott were among the dignitaries.

To be here today and see hundreds of thousands of people on OConnell Street remembering the sacrifices of those who led the Rising was, I think, a very gratifying moment, said Mr McGuinness.

The event was followed by a huge hours-long military parade in honour of the revolutionaries, including 3,722 Defence Forces personnel marching in front of military vehicles.

Meanwhile, a service of remembrance organised by the Royal British Legion took place in Greyabbey, Co Down, yesterday to remember the 116 soldiers who died during the Easter Rising.

Following a parade, a wreath was laid on the grave of Sandy McClelland, of the Royal Irish Rifles.

He was 18 years old when he was killed in Dublin on April 27, 1916.
Garda sealed off the scene yesterday as senior detectives arrived to carry out investigations into the tragedy

A father and his young son died after falling into a body of water beside the Royal Canal in Dublin yesterday.

The father, named locally as Sean Sweeney, who was in his mid 30s, was on his way to visit a relative on Easter Sunday with his three-year-old son Lee when the tragedy occurred.

It is believed the toddler fell into the water accidentally before his dad desperately attempted to rescue him.

However Sean, known as 'Curley' in the Cabra area, sadly also died in the tragic accident. The bodies of the father and son were discovered by a passer-by who immediately alerted emergency services. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

The shocking incident occurred at approximately 3pm yesterday in the Ashington Park area of Ashtown.

Garda sealed off the scene yesterday as senior detectives arrived to carry out investigations into the tragedy.

Garda are also in the process of interviewing relatives in the hopes of piecing together the exact circumstances which led to the deaths.

Shocked locals gathered at the scene yesterday evening. They looked on in disbelief as an ambulance arrived shortly before 6pm to remove the bodies of the young man and his toddler son.

Despite the investigation being in the preliminary stages, Garda are not treating the deaths as suspicious and believe it was simply a tragic accident.
Pakistani police officers stand guard at the site of a bomb blast in a park in Lahore (AP)

Malala Yousafzai has condemned the "senseless killing" in her birth country Pakistan after a terrorist bombing left at least 70 dead on Easter Sunday.

The country entered a three-day mourning period on Monday following the attack in a park in Lahore, believed to be carried out by a suicide bomber.

The 18-year-old former Nobel Prize winner, who lives in Birmingham, said: "I am devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore.

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends. I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms."

She called for Pakistan and the world to stand together adding: "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

More than 300 were injured in the attack, many seriously, after a device was detonated near children's rides while families celebrated Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore.

A breakaway Pakistani faction of the Taliban claimed responsibility for the carnage and said it had deliberately targeted the Christian community.

However most of those killed were Muslims - with 14 having been identified as Christians, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal.

Prime Minister David Cameron, who used his Easter message to urge Britons of all faiths to stand up for Christian values, said he was shocked by the attack and promised British help.

"My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims. We will do what we can to help," the PM posted on his Twitter feed.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: " My thoughts are with the victims and the family of the victims of the horrific attack in Lahore.

"Solidarity with the emergency services there."

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said British nationals were advised to avoid the area and monitor travel advice updates and local media.

"My thoughts are with the victims and their families," he said.

"The UK utterly condemns these senseless acts of violence.

"We will continue to provide support and assistance to the government of Pakistan as they work to defeat those who plan and perpetrate these acts of terror."
Britain should send top archaeologists to help restore the ancient city of Palmyra - after Vladimir Putin exposed the West's "ineffective" response to the Syria crisis by helping liberate it from Islamic State, Boris Johnson has said.

The Mayor of London said the Russian president deserved credit for showing "ruthless clarity" in providing Bashar Assad's regime with military backing, reportedly including troops on the ground.

"If Putin's troops have helped winkle the maniacs from Palmyra, then (it pains me to admit) that is very much to the credit of the Russians," he wrote in his Daily Telegraph column.

"They have made the West look relatively ineffective; and so now is the time for us to make amends, and to play to our strengths.

"We have some of the greatest archaeological experts in the world. I hope that the Government will soon be funding them to go to Syria and help the work of restoration.

"It is far cheaper than bombing and more likely to lead to long-term tourism and economic prosperity.

"One day Syria's future will be glorious; but that will partly depend on the world's ability to enjoy its glorious past. British experts should and will be at the forefront of the project."

The recapture by Syrian government forces of the city, known to Syrians as the "Bride of the Desert", represents a significant blow to IS - also known as Isil, Isis and Daesh,

Experts are set to begin assessing the scale of the damage done to the 2,000-year-old ruins, with many famous monuments known to have been destroyed.

Mr Johnson wrote that while the regime itself was "evil", "t he victory of Assad is a victory for archaeology, a victory for all those who care about the ancient monuments of one of the most amazing cultural sites on earth".

He said: "It is alas very hard to claim that the success of the Assad forces is a result of any particular British or indeed western policy.

"How could it be? We rightly loathe his regime and what it stands for, and for the last few years we have been engaged in an entirely honourable mission to build an opposition to Assad that was not composed simply of Daesh.

"That effort has not worked, not so far. It has been Putin who with a ruthless clarity has come to the defence of his client, and helped to turn the tide.

"If reports are to be believed, the Russians have not only been engaged in air strikes against Assad's opponents, but have been seen on the ground as well."

A replica of the destroyed gateway of the Temple of Bel is due to be raised in Trafalgar Square next month in a show of solidarity with Palmyra.

"I hope it will also be a sign of our British determination to be useful in the reconstruction of the country," Mr Johnson wrote.
Pakistani relatives and emergency workers after a suicide bomb went off in Lahore

Pakistani relatives and emergency workers after a suicide bomb went off in Lahore

Pakistani relatives and emergency workers after a suicide bomb went off in Lahore

A breakaway Pakistani faction of the Taliban has claimed responsibility for an Easter Sunday bombing in a Lahore park that killed 65 people.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said a suicide bomber with the faction had deliberately targeted the Christian community in the eastern city.

The explosion took place near children's rides in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park, which was crowded with Christians celebrating Easter, local police chief Haider Ashraf said.

He said the explosion appeared to have been a suicide bombing, although investigations are ongoing.

The explosion killed 65 people and wounded more than 300 others, according Deeba Shahnaz, a spokesman for Lahore rescue administration.

Punjab's chief minister Shahbaz Sharif announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The park was manned by police and private security guards, police chief Haider Ashraf said.

"We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat, but no specific threat alert was received for this place," he added.

Footage broadcast on local television stations showed chaotic scenes in the park, with people running while carrying children and cradling the wounded in their laps.

One witness, who wished to be identified only as Afzal, said he had taken 20 children to hospital and carried three dead bodies to a police car.

Another witness said he was heading toward a fairground ride with his wife and two children when he heard a huge bang, and all four of them were thrown to the floor.

A woman was shown crying while looking desperately for her missing five-year-old son.

A spokesman for the US National Security Council said America "condemns the attack in the strongest terms", describing it as a "cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park".
US Congress and White House on lockdown

(FILES) This file photo taken on March 22, 2016 shows a Capitol Police officer watches from the US Capitol building in Washington, DC. AFP/Getty Images

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: U.S. President Barack Obama greets guests on the South Lawn of the White House during the annual White House Easter Egg Roll March 28, 2016 in Washington, DC. Thousands of people attended the 138-year-old tradition of rolling colored eggs down the White House lawn that was started by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) *** BESTPIX ***

A US Secret Service agent stands guard at the White House in Washington, DC, on March 28, 2016. AFP/Getty Images

A police officer stands guard at the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. The US Capitol was on lockdown March 28 after shots were apparently fired in the Capitol Visitors Center, police said, but local media said the gunman was injured and taken into custody. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan SMIALOWSKIBRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

A police officer stands guard at the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. The US Capitol was on lockdown March 28 after shots were apparently fired in the Capitol Visitors Center, police said, but local media said the gunman was injured and taken into custody. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan SMIALOWSKIBRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: A U.S. Capitol Police officer stands guard during a lock down after shots were reportedly fired at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center March 28, 2016 in Washington, DC. A gunman was reportedly captured and a police officer shot at the U.S. Capitol. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

A police officer stands guard at the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. AFP/Getty Images

A police officer stands guard at the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. The US Capitol was on lockdown March 28 after shots were apparently fired in the Capitol Visitors Center, police said, but local media said the gunman was injured and taken into custody. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan SMIALOWSKIBRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 28: Police establish a perimeter during a lock down after shots were reportedly fired at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center March 28, 2016 in Washington, DC. A gunman was reportedly captured and a police officer shot at the U.S. Capitol. (Photo byWin McNamee/Getty Images) *** BESTPIX ***

A police officer stands guard at the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. The US Capitol was on lockdown March 28 after shots were apparently fired in the Capitol Visitors Center, police said, but local media said the gunman was injured and taken into custody. / AFP PHOTO / Brendan SMIALOWSKIBRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

A police officer directs peaople away from the US Capitol complex in Washington, DC March 28, 2016 after reports of shots fired. AFP/Getty Images

A US Secret Service agent stands guard at the White House in Washington, DC, on March 28, 2016. AFP/Getty Images

A US Capitol Police officer has been shot near the Capitol Visitor Centre complex.

Reports suggest the officer was not seriously injured during the incident.

The event unfolded with Congress on recess and politicians back in their constituencies.

It occurred in the visitors' centre of the sprawling Capitol complex.

Staffers, reporters and others were told to "shelter in place" and not allowed to leave their offices. The White House and the Capitol complex were put on lockdown.

A suspect was taken into custody, Capitol officials and police said.

"There has been an isolated incident at the US Capitol. There is no active threat to the public," the DC Police Department tweeted.

In a reportedly unrelated incident a man attempted to jump the fence surrounding the White House.

This is a developing story and will be updated
Pakistan's prime minister Nawaz Sharif vowed on Monday to hunt down and defeat the militants who have been carrying out attacks like the Easter bombing that targeted Christians and killed 72 people.

"We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan," Mr Sharif said. "This is our resolve. This is the resolve of the 200 million people of Pakistan."

As the country began three days of mourning after Sunday's suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore in a park crowded with families, Mr Sharif said the army would forge ahead with a military operation on extremist hideouts and police will go after what he called the "cowards" who carried out the attack.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a breakaway Taliban faction that supports the Islamic State group, claimed responsibility and said it specifically targeted Christians.

Expand Close Activists of The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF)hold placards during a rally in Srinagar on March 28,2016, held to protest the suicide bombing in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 27. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Activists of The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF)hold placards during a rally in Srinagar on March 28,2016, held to protest the suicide bombing in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 27. AFP/Getty Images

But most of those killed were Muslims who also had been in the popular park for the holiday. Many women and children were among the victims, and dozens of families held tearful funerals on Monday for their slain relatives. At least 300 people were wounded.

Mr Sharif, who cancelled a visit to the United States to attend a nuclear summit, also warned extremists against using Islam to justify their violence in the overwhelmingly Muslim nation.

Pakistan has suffered a series of attacks in recent months, and Mr Sharif said militants are hitting "soft targets" like playgrounds and schools because military and police operations are putting pressure on their operations.

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 Pakistani women mourn the death of relatives after a bomb blast in Lahore on March 27, 2016. At least 25 people were killed and dozens injured when an explosion ripped through the parking lot of a crowded park where many minority Christians had gone to celebrate Easter Sunday in the Pakistani city Lahore, officials said. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani civil society activists shout slogans at the suicide blast site in Lahore on March 28, 2016. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Activists of The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF)hold placards during a rally in Srinagar on March 28,2016, held to protest the suicide bombing in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 27. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Members of a civil society group light candles during a vigil for the victims of Sunday's suicide bombing, Monday, March 28, 2016 in Karachi, Pakistan. Pakistan's prime minister vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the massive suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter the previous day in the eastern city of Lahore, killing tens of people. (AP Photo/Shakil Adil) AP Activists of The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front(JKLF)hold placards during a rally in Srinagar on March 28,2016, held to protest the suicide bombing in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 27. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / TAUSEEF MUSTAFATAUSEEF MUSTAFA/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Activists of The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front(JKLF)hold placards as they listen to a leader address a rally in Srinagar on March 28,2016, held to protest the suicide bombing in the Pakistani city of Lahore on March 27. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / TAUSEEF MUSTAFATAUSEEF MUSTAFA/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pastor Shakeel Anjum attends the funeral of a suicide blast victim at a graveyard in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani civil society members sing the national anthem at the site of a suicide blast in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspectsafter a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians hold placards and lighted candles as they stage a rally in Lahore on March 28, 2016, for victims of a suicide bomb blast. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ASIF HASSANASIF HASSAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians light candles as they stage a rally in Lahore on March 28, 2016, for victims of a suicide bomb blast. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ASIF HASSANASIF HASSAN/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani civil society members light candles for suicide blast victims in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians hold placards and lighted candles as they stage a rally in Lahore on March 28, 2016, for victims of a suicide bomb blast. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christian women mourn the death of a man killed form a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary) AP Women try to comfort a mother who lost her son in bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary) AP Pakistani Christians carry the coffin of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, into a graveyard in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourners carry the coffin of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians gather around an opened coffin as they mourn the death of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn over the coffin of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christian women mourn the death of Sharmoon who was killed in a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary) AP Pakistani Christians mourn the death of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn the death of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn as they attend a funeral for a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn as they attend a funeral for a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians bury a suicide blast victim during a funeral ceremony in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn the death of a blast victim of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. Pakistan's army launched raids and arrested suspects after a Taliban suicide bomber targeting Christians over Easter killed 72 people including many children in a park crowded with families. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians bury a suicide blast victim during a funeral ceremony in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians bury a suicide blast victim during a funeral ceremony in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians carry a coffin of suicide blast victim during a funeral ceremony in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn the death of a relative killed in a suicide blast, at a graveyard in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christians mourn the death of a relative killed in a suicide blast, at a graveyard in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christian women mourn during the funeral service of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP A Pakistani Christian mother looks at her son as she hold her daughter during his funeral in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP Women mourn the death of their family member who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP Pakistani police commandos stand guard at the suicide blast site in Lahore on March 28, 2016. A suicide bomber who attacked a park thronging with families celebrating Easter killed at least 72 people in Pakistan, with children among the dead. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani Christian women mourn the deaths of their family members during a funeral service at a local church in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP Family members of Pakistani Christian boy Sahil Pervez, mourn his death, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP An injured Pakistani child victim of a suicide blast rests in a hospital in Lahore on March 28, 2016. A suicide bomber who attacked a park thronging with families celebrating Easter killed at least 72 people in Pakistan, with children among the dead. / AFP PHOTO / FAROOQ NAEEMFAROOQ NAEEM/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A Pakistani Christian mother holds her injured child who survived Sunday's bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash) AP Local residents gather outside the cordoned-off site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images A Pakistani police commando stands guard at the cordoned-off site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani relatives mourn over the body of a victim during a funeral following an overnight suicide bombing in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani forensics experts investigate the site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani forensics experts investigate the site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani security officials collect evidence at the cordoned-off site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images Pakistani security officials collect evidence at the cordoned-off site of the March 27 suicide bombing, in Lahore on March 28, 2016. The toll from a suicide blast in Pakistan's Lahore rose to 69, officials said on March 28, as authorities hunted for the "savage inhumans" behind the attack in a park packed with Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday. More than 200 people were injured, many of them children, when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Pakistani women mourn the death of relatives after a bomb blast in Lahore on March 27, 2016. At least 25 people were killed and dozens injured when an explosion ripped through the parking lot of a crowded park where many minority Christians had gone to celebrate Easter Sunday in the Pakistani city Lahore, officials said. / AFP PHOTO / ARIF ALIARIF ALI/AFP/Getty Images

Mr Sharif met with security officials earlier in the day, and raids and dozens of arrests were carried out in eastern Punjab province, where several militant organisations are headquartered.

The prime minister also visited hospitals in Lahore where many of the injured were being treated. Mr Sharif was born in the city, which is also the capital of Punjab province, his power base.

"It strengthened my resolve when I met the wounded people," he said in his address. "God willing, I will not sit idle until I bring smiles back on their faces."

Expand Close Pakistani civil society activists shout slogans at the suicide blast site in Lahore on March 28, 2016. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp Pakistani civil society activists shout slogans at the suicide blast site in Lahore on March 28, 2016. AFP/Getty Images

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a government offensive and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis decried what he called the vile and abominable bombing against Christians and urged Pakistani authorities to "make every effort to restore security and serenity" in the country, particularly for religious minorities.

In Pakistan's capital of Islamabad, Islamic extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings, demanding that authorities impose Sharia law. The army deployed paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighbouring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the centre, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

The leader of the protesters, Sarwat Ejaz Qadri told a local TV channel they would stay outside Parliament "until our demands are met". Hundreds were hunkered down for a long stay, chanting prayers, occasionally raising anti-government slogans and brandishing long sticks.

They were protesting against the hanging last month of policeman Mumtaz Qadri. He was convicted for the 2011 murder of governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Mr Taseer had also criticised Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Mr Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced draft legislation in Punjab province that outlaws violence against women.

Earlier this month, Mr Sharif had officially recognised holidays celebrated by Pakistan's minority religions, including Easter and the Hindu festival of Holi.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, said that along with striking at Christians celebrating Easter, the bombing also was meant to protest against military operations in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year.

But of the 72 dead from Sunday's attack, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, said Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. The rest have not been identified.

Shama Pervez, a widow who lost her 11-year-old son Sahil in the bombing, was inconsolable at his funeral. A fifth-grader at a Catholic school, he had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

In the Christian area of Youhanabad on the outskirts of Lahore, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children?" asked Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of Sunday's victims.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed in the park, and all were Muslims. His 10-year-old nephew, Fahad Ali, lay wounded in a bed at home. He had lost his parents and a sister, and another two sisters also were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything to continue at school!" he cried.

Forensic experts searched debris in the park. The bomb had been a crude device loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the victims for maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, a known militant recruiter.

Nobel peace prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, herself a survivor of a Taliban shooting, said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

White House spokesman Josh Earnest called the bombing "grotesque."

"The fact that you have an extremist organisation targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," he said, also noting the high number of Muslims among the victims.

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan said targeting a park filled with children "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values".

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" with Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere".

Zahid Hussain, an expert on Pakistani militants, said the violence was a show of strength by religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

Pakistan's military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The army says the operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has killed more than 3,000 militants. In December 2014, the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in north western city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Mr Hussain said the government has sent mixed signals to Islamic extremists. On one hand, it has allowed banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches. At the same time, it has hanged convicts like Qadri and promised to tackle honour killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," Mr Hussain said. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say no to extremism once and for all."

Army chief General Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage non-humans to overrun our life and liberty".

Punjab's government said it will give about 3,000 US dollars in compensation to the seriously wounded and 1,500 US dollars to those with minor injuries from the bombing.
Pope Francis waving to the crowd from St Peters Basilica during the Urbi et Orbi Easter blessing yesterday

Pope Francis waving to the crowd from St Peters Basilica during the Urbi et Orbi Easter blessing yesterday

Pope Francis tempered his Easter Sunday message of Christian hope with a denunciation of "blind" terrorism, recalling victims of attacks in Europe, Africa and elsewhere.

And he also expressed his dismay that people fleeing war or poverty were being denied a welcome as European countries squabble over the refugee crisis.

Tens of thousands of people patiently endured long lines, backpack inspections and metal-detecting checks Sunday to enter St Peter's Square.

Under a brilliant sun they listened to Francis deliver the traditional noon Easter speech from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica.

To their delight, Francis completed a whirl through the square in his open-topped Popemobile after celebrating Mass on the steps of the basilica. He leaned over barriers to shake hands as the vehicle ventured past the Vatican's confines, with his bodyguards jogging alongside.

For years Islamist extremists in social media have listed the Vatican and Rome as potential targets due to hosting the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.

Despite the threats, Francis has kept to his habit of trying to be in close contact with ordinary people.

In his speech Francis cited recent attacks in Belgium, Turkey, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Ivory Coast and Iraq.

He called the message of Easter "a message of life for all humanity".

Easter "invites us not to forget those men and women seeking a better future, an ever more numerous throng of migrants and refugees - including many children - fleeing from war, hunger, poverty and social injustice", he said.

As he has done repeatedly, Francis lamented that "all too often, these brothers and sisters of ours meet along the way with death or, in any event, rejection by those who could offer them welcome and assistance".

Some European countries have erected barbed-wire fences and other barriers to keep out those who continue to arrive on Greek and Italian shores after risky sea voyages on smugglers' boats.

Francis also decried the destruction and "contempt for humanitarian law" in Syria, millions of whose people have fled to Europe.
An undated image, which appears to be a screenshot from a video and which was published by the Islamic State group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows Jihadists preparing explosives in the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. The temple was destroyed by the extremist group and news of its demolition sparked international condemnation earlier this week. AFP/Getty Images

This file photo released on Sunday, May 17, 2015, by the Syrian official news agency SANA, shows the general view of the ancient Roman city of Palmyra, northeast of Damascus, Syria. (SANA via AP, File)

This undated photo released Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015 on a social media site used by Islamic State militants, which has been verified and is consistent with other AP reporting, shows shows explosives in the 2,000-year-old temple of Baalshamin in Syria's ancient caravan city of Palmyra. A resident of the city said the temple was destroyed on Sunday, a month after the group's militants booby-trapped it with explosives. The U.N. cultural agency UNESCO on Monday called the destruction of the temple a war crime. (Islamic State social media account via AP)

FILES - A picture taken on March 14, 2014 shows the Temple of Baal Shamin seen through two Corinthian columns in the ancient oasis city of Palmyra, 215 kilometres northeast of Damascus. Islamic State group jihadists on August 23, 2015 blew up the ancient temple of Baal Shamin in the UNESCO-listed Syrian city of Palmyra, the country's antiquities chief told AFP. "Daesh placed a large quantity of explosives in the temple of Baal Shamin today and then blew it up causing much damage to the temple," said Maamoun Abdulkarim, using another name for IS. IS, which controls swathes of Syria and neighbouring Iraq, captured Palmyra on May 21, sparking international concern about the fate of the heritage site described by UNESCO as of "outstanding universal value". AFP PHOTO/JOSEPH EIDJOSEPH EID/AFP/Getty Images

An undated image published by Isis group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows explosives placed on parts of columns of the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. AFP/Getty Images

(FILES) - A file picture taken on March 14, 2014 shows the courtyard of the sanctury of Baal Shamin in the ancient oasis city of Palmyra, 215 kilometres northeast of Damascus. Islamic State group jihadists on August 23, 2015 blew up the ancient temple of Baal Shamin in the UNESCO-listed Syrian city of Palmyra, the country's antiquities chief told AFP. AFP PHOTO / JOSEPH EIDJOSEPH EID/AFP/Getty Images

Smoke from the detonation of the 2,000-year-old temple of Baalshamin in Syria's ancient caravan city of Palmyra. Photo released Aug. 25, 2015 (Islamic State social media account via AP)

The biggest military defeat that Isis has suffered in more than two years. The recapture of Palmyra, the Roman city of the Empress Zenobia. And we are silent. Yes, folks, the bad guys won, didn't they? Otherwise, we would all be celebrating, wouldn't we?

Less than a week after the lost souls of the 'Islamic Caliphate' destroyed the lives of more than 30 innocent human beings in Brussels, we should - should we not? - have been clapping our hands at the most crushing military reverse in the history of Isis. But no.

As the black masters of execution fled Palmyra this weekend, Messers Obama and Cameron were as silent as the grave to which Isis have dispatched so many of their victims. He who lowered our national flag in honour of the head-chopping king of Arabia (I'm talking about Dave, of course) said not a word.

As my long-dead colleague on the Sunday Express, John Gordon, used to say, makes you sit up a bit, doesn't it? Here are the Syrian army, backed, of course, by Vladimir Putin's Russkies, chucking the clowns of Isis out of town, and we daren't utter a single word to say well done.

When Palmyra fell last year, we predicted the fall of Bashar al-Assad. We ignored, were silent on, the Syrian army's big question: why, if the Americans hated Isis so much, didn't they bomb the suicide convoys that broke through the Syrian army's front lines? Why didn't they attack Isis?

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If the Americans wanted to destroy Isis, why didn't they bomb them when they saw them? a Syrian army general asked me, after his soldiers' defeat His son had been killed defending Homs. His men had been captured and head-chopped in the Roman ruins. The Syrian official in charge of the Roman ruins (of which we cared so much, remember?) was himself beheaded. Isis even put his spectacles back on top of his decapitated head, for fun. And we were silent then.

Putin noticed this, and talked about it, and accurately predicted the retaking of Palmyra. His aircraft attacked Isis - as US planes did not - in advance of the Syrian army's conquest. I could not help but smile when I read that the US command claimed two air strikes against Isis around Palmyra in the days leading up to its recapture by the regime.

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Expand Close An undated image, which appears to be a screenshot from a video and which was published by the Islamic State group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows Jihadists preparing explosives in the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. The temple was destroyed by the extremist group and news of its demolition sparked international condemnation earlier this week. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp An undated image, which appears to be a screenshot from a video and which was published by the Islamic State group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows Jihadists preparing explosives in the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. The temple was destroyed by the extremist group and news of its demolition sparked international condemnation earlier this week. AFP/Getty Images

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That really did tell you all you needed to know about the American "war on terror". They wanted to destroy Isis, but not that much.

Expand Close An undated image published by Isis group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows explosives placed on parts of columns of the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. AFP/Getty Images AFP/Getty Images / Facebook

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Whatsapp An undated image published by Isis group in the Homs province (Welayat Homs) on August 25, 2015, allegedly shows explosives placed on parts of columns of the Baal Shamin temple in Syria's ancient city of Palmyra. AFP/Getty Images

So in the end, it was the Syrian army and its Hizballah chums from Lebanon and the Iranians and the Russians who drove the Isis murderers out of Palmyra, and who may - heavens preserve us from such a success - even storm the Isis Syrian 'capital' of Raqqa.

I have written many times that the Syrian army will decide the future of Syria. If they grab back Raqqa - and Deir el-Zour, where the Nusrah front destroyed the church of the Armenian genocide and threw the bones of the long-dead 1915 Christian victims into the streets - I promise you we will be silent again.

Aren't we supposed to be destroying Isis? Forget it. That's Putin's job. And Assad's. Pray for peace, folks. That's what it's about, isn't it? And Geneva. Where is that, exactly?

Expand Close Smoke from the detonation of the 2,000-year-old temple of Baalshamin in Syria's ancient caravan city of Palmyra. Photo released Aug. 25, 2015 (Islamic State social media account via AP) AP / Facebook

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Independent
Ashland, Oregon is known for a unique blend of college students at Southern Oregon University and retired Baby Boomers. It is also the site of the annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and an enclave of transplanted liberals in an otherwise rooted, conservative region. Its a place of great natural beauty near the California border, two hours inland from the ocean.

Boomers sell their homes in L.A. and the Bay Area and buy a nice spread in or near Ashland. There they can get in touch with nature and explore aspects of life that they had less time for back home. Secular Jews of that generation grew up with reverence for nature, a Progressive world view, alienation from Traditional Judaism, and an unquenchable thirst for spiritual meaning. Enter the intersection of Ashland with Jewish people in their sixties.

Many Jews seek acceptance in seemingly eclectic places where people are disconnected from established traditions and prone toward universalism or new modes of thought. College towns are a popular choice for Jews hoping to blend into the fabric of a diverse and thriving local culture.

One of the leading Progressive activists in Ashland is Jeff Golden, who is something of a pioneer to his generation of Southern Oregon transplants. He purchased an isolated plot of land north of town in the early 70s as a young Jewish man from Beverly Hills, after attending Harvard. Now he lives closer to town.

Jeffs adventures are chronicled in his book Watermelon Summer and the documentary River Dogs. But Golden grew up secular and has yet to investigate a potential route home to Judaism. He has instead devoted his life to his version of social responsibility, including producing a PBS series called Immense Possibilities.

When asked in a recent interview whether that passion may be related to his Jewish soul, he was intrigued. Im still asking myself what it means to be Jewish. As a kid he was turned off by the darkness associated with the European Jewish memories of his extended family. But he has not ruled out the possibility of drawing closer to his roots. I admire a lot of people in the Jewish tradition, he concluded. Its a possibility.

Other Jews formed or joined congregations after settling in town. Some had always maintained a connection to Judaism, and others felt the tug of the Yiddish Pintele Yid, (Spark of a Jew). Some also find ways to incorporate the values of their generation into their return to tradition.

Congregation Havurah Shir Hadash prides itself on nourishing that spark as they mention in part of their Mission Statement: Encouraging new modes of expression, prayer and practice, the Havurah is dedicated to being a point of entry or re-entry for unaffiliated Jews who seek to infuse their lives with the ancient and evolving values and traditions.

The group is led by Rabbi David Zaslow local poet, editor, and musician. Hes from New York City, but has been in Ashland since 1970. Zaslow is heavily involved in interfaith dialogue, wrote a book about Jesus, and made a presentation at World Peace and Prayer Day last year near Ashland.

Although this movement has a reputation for an experimental approach to spirituality, the congregation in Ashland affirms a pro-Israel stance on their web site, at a time when some of their peers have reservations on that topic.

Temple Emek Shalom partners with the local Unitarian Universalist Fellowship and the City of Ashland to sponsor a homeless shelter. They also provide winter clothing and baby goods via their Social Justice Action Committee. Its part of Reform Judaisms emphasis on the imperative to pursue Tikkun Olam, which is Hebrew for Repairing the World.

Jyl came from a secular Jewish background in the Bay Area. While living in L.A. she found Judaism through an outreach organization. When she and her husband were ready to retire, they saw a magazine article about the best locations to do so.

Ashland is a place where people who have a very spiritual quest in life come, she said in a recent interview. There is a very open approach to spirituality. The synagogues are very alive. Over 200 people come out for the public menorah lightings during Chanukah.

A lot of us have grown weary of the notion that we have to live in a shtetl. (Yiddish term for an exclusively Jewish settlement) Jyl affiliates with CHABAD. Its an acronym for the three Hebrew words that translate as Wisdom, Understanding, and Knowledge.

Chabad Lubavitch is a Chasidic Jewish culture within the broader spectrum of Orthodox Judaism. There are countless Chasidic dynasties, usually named after the part of Europe where they originated. Lubavitch was in an area known as White Russia near Lithuania.

The original European Chasidim of the 18th century were considered controversial free spirits of their day. This was due to their emphasis on song, dance, storytelling, mysticism and ecstatic worship. But serious scholasticism remained part of the equation.

Chabad has made it their mission to open their doors to unaffiliated Jews while casting no judgment upon their past or current lifestyles. Starting in the 1970s, they have encouraged Rabbis to set up communities in the far reaches of the secular Jewish world. They serve as Lamplighters of Jewish souls.

Rabbi Avi Zweigel and his family were living in Florida in 2003 when they learned about Ashlands growing Jewish community. They soon made the move and established a congregation. Late last year, with the help of local fundraising, they purchased a building on the main street in town to be used as a synagogue and Jewish center. It had previously been occupied by a Starbucks. The Rabbi is known for his accessibility and attentiveness. He figures that the number of Jewish households in the area has grown to about 1800.

Richard had grown weary of urban life as a teacher in inner city L.A. Him and his wife moved to a conservative rural area in Idaho. But they missed having a Jewish community. Although they were far from religious, they had grown up in a liberal, Reform Jewish congregation and sorely missed the ethnic and spiritual connection.

When reflecting on his Idaho neighbors in an interview, Richard explained that they saw him as someone to convert, not someone to accept as he was. So he began traveling to the nearest Chabad center in Washington. Eventually he began staying over at the local Rabbis house on the Sabbath.

While passing through Ashland Richard was struck by the warmth of Rabbi Avi and the diversity and openness of the town. He never considered exploring other denominations of Judaism when the spark reignited in him. I always believed in God. But I have a problem with Conservative or Reform Judaism. They make light of the miraculous and they dont go into depth. I need to be with community. You need something to guide your life. Theres a love at Chabad.

Richard is optimistic about the Jewish future of Ashland. I think theres a spiritual draw here. Its a freedom and an acceptance. Its kind of cozy. I think the Jewish community is going to grow, he said.

Steven was completely alienated from Judaism. He lives just outside Ashland. But after years of declining invitations to a Passover gathering by Rabbi Avi, he finally accepted one. Although he still does not consider himself religious, he has been genuinely overwhelmed by the warmth of the Rabbi and the satisfaction of having a closer connection to Judaism.

In a recent testimonial he wrote,

I began to feel like I was coming home. I was on my way back to a place I had always belonged, but never really understood. Suddenly it became clear that I am not a bad Jew. I have just been wayward in a world filled with mixed messages and cynicism over religion.

Maybe its the result of getting older and wanting to know more. For whatever reason, I am no longer a completely lost and confused wayward Jew. I am beginning to find my way back. Talk is cheap, but I have been listening to the Rabbis words and witnessing his actions. They are consistent. He is available, willing to make time and always wanting to include people in celebration and observance.

Like many college towns, Ashland may not be as diverse and open-minded as generally perceived, depending on who is doing the perceiving. The world view at college campuses almost monolithically sways to the Left, as does the culture of the general population in college towns.

Judaisms emphasis on personal discipline, delayed gratification, chastity, support for Israel, and family values may run counter to a modern, socially liberal agenda. Colleges often breed hostility to Israel and Shakespeare was instrumental in promoting a devastatingly negative image of a Jew in his play The Merchant of Venice. So there may be aspects of the local culture that conflict with a blossoming Jewish identity.

In Stevens case a half hours distance from town suits him well. He expressed his aversion to the eccentric types he encounters in town. I just like the mountains and scenic beauty. The culture is too much for me to handle for more than a few hours at a time.

Daniel Gelman has been a news correspondent, feature and opinion writer for newspapers, web sites, and magazines for 20 years. His areas of concentration are local histories, religion and spirituality, and small business. He is based in Southern California.
The passing of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia created an even deeper rift between the republican and democratic parties with President Barack Obamas nomination of Merrick Garland.

I have selected a nominee who is widely recognized not only as one of America's sharpest legal minds, but someone who brings to his work a spirit of decency modesty, integrity, evenhandedness and excellence, Obama said on March16.

"These qualities and his long commitment to public service have earned him the respect and admiration from leaders from both sides of the aisle. Judge Garland has earned a track record of building consensus as a thoughtful, fair-minded judge who follows the law. He's shown a rare ability to bring together odd couples, assemble unlikely coalitions, and persuade colleagues with wide-ranging judicial philosophies to sign on to his opinions.

Garland was instrumental in the prosecution in the Oklahoma City bombing, and helping him get the nod from Bill Clinton for United States Circuit Court of the District of Columbia.

Garland garnered 32 republicans (John McCain, Orrin Hatch and Pat Roberts were among them) to confirm his seat at theUnited States Circuit Court of the District of Columbia in 1997.

In this politically charged climate, the subject of Garland becoming U.S. Supreme Court Justice is a hot-button topic. The GOP promised they would block the nomination to stall the process until the general elections held in November. They reasoned that the people should have a voice and the pending Justice could alter conservative policies like banning abortion, gun rights, and enforcing the United States Constitution.

GOP presidential candidate and Sen. Ted Cruz (TX.) Tweeted after Scalia died in February.

Justice Scalia was an American hero. We owe it to him, & the Nation, for the Senate to ensure that the next president names his replacement. We're not going to give up the U.S. Supreme Court for a generation by allowing Barack Obama to make one more liberal appointee. We are one justice away from a Supreme Court that would undermine the religious liberty of millions of Americans, he said.

Democrat and Minority Leader Harry Reid dismissed the idea:

It would be unprecedented in recent history for the Supreme Court to go a year with a vacant seat. Failing to fill this vacancy would be a shameful abdication of one of the Senate's most essential Constitutional responsibilities.

The National Religious Broadcasters released a statement regarding finding a justice who could enforce the Constitution. Dr. Jerry A. Johnson is the CEO and President of NRB. He wrote a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY)) urging the party to blocking the nomination to protect rights of the people until the new president is elected.

The Constitution that Justice Scalia fought for decades to uphold provides the President the power to nominate judges and the Senate the power of advice and consent, he wrote. This is a key principle in the separation of powers between the branches of our nations government. Unfortunately, Americas current President has shown little restraint in asserting authority in areas properly belonging to other federal branches, the states, or the people themselves. I urge you to do all that you can to prevent the President from attempting to work around the will of the Legislative Branch in this matter.

Johnson also noted that people started to vote to change in 2014 since the current government was overstepping and trampling the rights of the Constitution. The three branches of government are at stake.

McConnell took this a step further with National Rifle Association, stating that the organization should have a say in the nomination through their vote. The Supreme Court justices are nominated by the president and appointed with the advice and consent of the National Rifle Association, he said in an interview with Chris Wallace.

I cant imagine that a Republican majority in the United States Senate would want to confirm, in a lame duck session, a nominee opposed by the National Rifle Association [and] the National Federation of Independent Businesses. Garland worked against the NRA as they wanted to dismantle background checks in the NRA v. Reno in 2000 when people purchased guns legally.

So it is not the people, who have the right to vote, but the figure heads like the NRA, the White House and the elite in Washington? Who will finally be the voice of the American people, and allow them to speak?

Corine Gatti is a Senior Editor at Beliefnet.com.
The Bible says Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). This verse is more than a notion. There is power in prayer to help us beat anxiety and depression.

Scientists are looking at what happens in the bodies of those who pray and believe in God. The field of neurotheology  the scientific study of the neural correlates of religious or spiritual beliefs, experiences and practices has drawn prominent researchers together in the U.S. and Canada. These scientists have found the brains of those who spend time praying and meditating are different. Andrew Newberg, a neuroscientist at the University of Pennsylvania has been scanning the brains of religious people for more than a decade. He has found that people who pray and meditate go dark in the parietal lobe, the area of the brain that deals with sensory information and helps us define our sense of self.

When people lose their sense of self, feel a sense of oneness, a blurring of the boundary between self and other, we have found decreases in activity in that area, said Dr. Newberg. When this part of their brain went dark, the praying people who were studied appeared to experience a oneness with God and the universe. In losing that sense of self, anxiety, depression and fear go away. Some of these scientists have also noticed patterns of change within the brain of those who prayed for short periods of time each day. When we make prayer a daily practice, it can lead to systemic changes in the brain. Were training our mind to focus on the presence of God. As this becomes a habit, we are no longer claiming dependency on fear-based emotions like anxiety, or depression. In moments of prayer, we are claiming dependence upon God and our ability to let Him be in control.

Too often, people try to take control of their own lives, through their own will because of their desire to make things happen according to their plan. But as believers, we know that God makes everything according to His plan. Many people who have experienced and depression are in a space where fear has become their focus. When we accept His plan, all fear, anxiety and stress can dissipate. We begin to embrace the joy of Gods will.

A study published in Sociology of Religion suggests that prayer can ease peoples anxiety an help alleviate worries, but this is contingent on the personality of the God they believe in, and how secure their relationship is with God. If they believe they are in a relationship with an angry, or vengeful God, it can bring more stress. If they believe they are in a relationship with a loving, or a friendly God, it can bring them less stress. In this study, Bradshaw and his colleagues analyzed 1,714 respondents to a 2010 Gallup survey about religion, asking questions like Over the past month, how often have you felt nervous, anxious or on edge? and whether Gods reactions to me seem to be inconsistent. These participants prayed somewhere between several times per week and once a day. For many individuals, God is a major source of comfort and strength that makes the world seem less threatening and dangerous, Matt Bradshaw, an assistant professor of sociology at Baylor Universitys College of Arts and Sciences said. But other people form avoidant or insecure attachments to God  meaning that they do not be form avoidant or insecure attachments to God will be there when they need Him. For them, prayer may feel like an unsuccessful attempt to cultivate and maintain an intimate relationship with God.

The ability for prayer to relieve our anxiety and depression only happens when our relationship with God is secure. When we believe God is loving, and we trust Him to handle our needs, we move away from stress and worry and enter a place of healing. There is power in prayer to change not only the situation that is being prayed about or for, but also to change the one that is praying. When we are in the presence of God, we are laying our lives before Him in complete submission and dependence. The Bible says Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you (James 4:8 ESV).

Another major benefit of prayer is peace. The Bible tells us Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:6 ESV). When we pray in the presence of God, we are seeking peace, and from Scripture we are told that there is nothing for us to be anxious about when we seek Him in prayer. We know that God is separated from our hearts when we lack peace, and God is present in our hearts when peace is present. Seek God in prayer today.

Lesli White is an Editor for Beliefnet.com
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For Immediate Release, March 28, 2016 Contacts: Tom Waldo, Earthjustice, (907) 500-7123, twaldo@earthjustice.org

Niel Lawrence, Natural Resources Defense Council, (360) 534-9900, nlawrence@nrdc.org

Buck Lindekugel, Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, (907) 586-6942, buck@seacc.org

Catalina Tresky, Defenders of Wildlife, (202) 772-0253, ctresky@defenders.org

Virginia Cramer, Sierra Club, (804) 519-8449, virginia.cramer@sierraclub.org

Marc Fink, Center for Biological Diversity, (218) 464-0539, mfink@biologicaldiversity.org

U.S. Supreme Court Denies Effort to Overturn Tongass National Forest Protections



Court Leaves Rules in Place That Protect Tongass Rainforest Wildlands From Damaging Logging, Road Construction WASHINGTON The U.S. Supreme Court today declined to hear a last-ditch effort by the state of Alaska to exempt Americas largest national forest from a national rule protecting undeveloped, road-free national forest areas from logging and road construction. The state sought to overturn a 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that kept the Roadless Area Conservation Rule in effect in the vast Tongass National Forest in southeast Alaska. The 9th Circuit agreed with a federal district court in Alaska that the Bush administration improperly exempted the Tongass from that landmark conservation measure. A coalition including the Organized Village of Kake (a federally recognized Alaska Native tribe), tourism businesses and conservationists joined the federal government in urging the Supreme Court to leave the lower court rulings intact. Todays court order is great news for Southeast Alaska and for all those who visit this spectacular place, said Earthjustice attorney Tom Waldo. The remaining wild and undeveloped parts of the Tongass are important wildlife habitat and vital to local residents for hunting, fishing, recreation, and tourism, the driving forces of the local economy. The Supreme Courts decision means that Americas biggest national forest  the Tongass  will continue to benefit from a common-sense rule that applies nationwide. It feels terrific to put this case to bed once and for all, added Niel Lawrence, senior attorney and Alaska director at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Punching clearcuts and logging roads into Americas last great rainforest wildland produced nothing but controversy, conflict and uncertainty. The region can now move ahead on a path that benefits from and sustains the fabulous natural values that attract people to the Tongass. And all Americans can celebrate, knowing that well pass on the crown jewel of national forests to future generations as wild and wonderful as it is today. Southeast Alaska has moved on, said Buck Lindekugel, grassroots attorney for the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council. Clearcutting old-growth forests in the remote wildlands of our region, with expensive new logging roads no one can afford to maintain, is a thing of the past. We are pleased to see the Supreme Court put this issue to rest and call on the State of Alaska to do the same. The Supreme Courts decision today is a victory for wildlife in the Tongass National Forest, the state of Alaska, the region and the nation, said Peter Nelson, senior policy advisor for federal lands for Defenders of Wildlife. The Roadless Rule protects the wildlands that form the heart of Americas largest national forest within the most expansive temperate rainforest in the world. Future generations will now have the opportunity to experience the majesty of this ecosystem and the salmon, bears, wolves, birds and the myriad wildlife that depend on it. The Roadless Rule protects our intact ancient forests that salmon, bears and wolves depend upon. Alaskas temperate rainforest is a treasure and todays decision will help keep the Tongass protected from more logging and destruction, said Marc Fink, senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. We're pleased to see the Roadless Rule upheld again. Over the past decade weve seen that the rule works. It has protected millions of acres of forests across the country, ensuring that both wildlife and American families have space to live and explore. In the face of a rapidly changing climate, protecting forests like the Tongass is even more important," said Alli Harvey, with the Sierra Clubs Our Wild America campaign in Alaska. Its common sense to protect this wild national icon for future generations to enjoy. Background



The so-called Roadless Rule was designed to protect large, relatively undisturbed landscapes in national forests from logging roads and clear-cuts, while allowing other economic development  including hydropower projects, transmission lines, tourism, federally-financed public roads, and even mining  to continue.



Todays ruling is good news for the many residents of the region and local businesses who use and depend on the Tongass outstanding natural values, as well as visitors who come to see Americas last great rainforest, teeming with fish and wildlife that thrive in its undeveloped roadless areas. Little practical change is expected, however, since even when the Bush-era exemption was in effect, cost and controversy kept almost all logging out of roadless areas. And last year, a federal advisory committee including representatives of the timber industry and the state formally and unanimously recommended against further logging of those wildlands. The 17-million-acre Tongass spans 500 miles of coastal southeast Alaska, encompassing alpine meadows, deep fjords, calving glaciers, dense old-growth rainforest and more than 1,000 islands and islets. After much debate and hundreds of thousands of comments, in 2001 the Agriculture Department decided that the Roadless Rule should apply to the Tongass but included special measures to blunt the impact of the rule on Alaskas timber industry. Not applying the rule, the department found, would risk the loss of important roadless values in the Tongass. When the Bush administration reversed course and tried to exempt the Tongass from the Roadless Rule, it relied on factual findings at odds with those that justified its original decision and ignored the economic mitigation package for the Tongass. It asserted, without support, that the rule was not needed to protect Tongass wildlands and would cause widespread economic hardship.



The 9th Circuits ruling  and todays decision by the Supreme Court not to review that ruling  reinforced the settled rule that federal agencies cannot arbitrarily change policies and ignore previous factual findings simply because a new president has taken office. Attorneys from Earthjustice and the Natural Resources Defense Council represent the following groups in the case: Organized Village of Kake, The Boat Company, Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association, Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, Natural Resources Defense Council, Tongass Conservation Society, Greenpeace, Wrangell Resource Council, the Center for Biological Diversity, Defenders of Wildlife, Cascadia Wildlands and Sierra Club.
Retail group Lewis has obtained approval from regulatory and competition authorities for its R250m purchase of Ellerines and Beares stores announced late last year, expanding its store footprint outside SA to more than 100.

Photographer: Michael EttershankImage source: BDlive

The approval for 21 stores in Namibia, 20 in Botswana, 10 in Lesotho, and six in Swaziland now brings the groups stores outside SA, which will operate under the Lewis or Beares brands, to 120.

Lewis CEO Johan Enslin said on Wednesday the new stores would give the group access to higher-income customers, as it traditionally targeted those in the lower-income segment.

"As more than 75% of the stores acquired in this transaction will trade under the Beares brand, this will enable the group to attract customers in higher-income groups," he said.

The shift to customers in a higher income bracket comes at a crucial time for the group.

In a January trading update, Lewis said affordability assessment regulations had affected trading significantly, resulting in revenue rising just 1.1% in the three months to the end of December, compared with the same period the previous year.

The new regulations spearheaded by the national credit regulator that came into effect in September, now require that customers applying for credit present proof of income in the form of the three latest monthly payslips or bank statements.

Lewis said at the time this had proved to be challenging for its traditional lower-to middle-income target market.

"Management does expect the acquisition to make a meaningful contribution to the group in terms of revenue and profitability," said Enslin. "We are not aware of any losses brought about by actions of the National Credit Regulator," he said.

The stores in Lesotho and Botswana were absorbed into the group in the past two months, making the cut-off period for Lewiss 2016 financial year, which is due to be reported on in May. The Swaziland stores are expected to be absorbed early next month, while the Namibian stores would follow in May.

"Management anticipates that the 57 stores will make a meaningful contribution to profitability in the medium term, but cannot disclose specific revenue or profit forecasts for these stores," Enslin said.
Community-driven hospitality company Airbnb will begin offering accommodation in Cuba to travellers from 2 April.

As part of the Obama administrations efforts to improve relations with Cuba and less than a year after it first opened doors to licensed US-travellers only, Airbnb has been granted special authorisation by the US Department of Treasury to allow the company to provide accommodation in Cuba to non-US travellers.

Airbnb was built on our belief that you can belong anywhere. We invite people to visit neighborhoods, meet new people, make new friends, and experience new places like a local, said Airbnb co-founder Nathan Blecharczyk. In less than a year, this has proven true in Cuba with more than 13,000 guests from each of the 50 US states. Now, we will be able to offer the same belonging to travellers from any country, while doing our part to preserve what makes Cuba so special and unique.

Network of casas particulars

Cuba is renowned for its large network of casas particulars, traditional private home-stays run by local micro-entrepreneurs that have been a popular accommodation choice for visitors for many years. Approximately 4,000 casas particular owners have added their homes to Airbnbs global community, making Cuba the fastest-growing market in Airbnb history. To date, these Airbnb hosts have earned an average of US$250 per booking.

Currently, Airbnb accommodations are spread across nearly 40 different cities and towns in Cuba, with about a third of listings outside Havana, including Trinidad, Vinales, Santiago de Cuba, Matanzas and Cienfuegos. For accommodations on Airbnb in Cuba, all travellers are required to attest they are travelling to Cuba under one of the twelve license categories as directed on the platform during the booking process.
Got a question or tip? Contact us at bizmojoidaho@gmail.com.
The Peoples Militia Force, known in Burmese as pyithu sit, that operates in the area is loyal to longtime New Democratic Army Kachin (NDAK) leader Zahkung Tin Ying. Reached for comment Lt-Col Naw Bu from the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) Central Headquarters in Laiza told the Kachin News Group that fighting broke out between the KIAs opium eradication taskforce and the Peoples Militia Force near Htang Maw Hkang village, which is close to Ngwa Le, the base of the KIAs Third Regiment.

Its quite sure. We havent been informed in details yet but its quite sure that fighting broke out, he said.

A citizen journalist, My Tsaw Kasa, confirmed to KNG that fighting took place for about an hour near Htang Maw Hkanng village, which is located northwest of the road to Kampaiti.

Lt-Gen Naw Bu said the KIO launched its poppy eradication program in Kampaiti and Sadon last week. These areas are home to thousands of acres of opium cultivation and fall under the territory of the Burmese governments Border Guard Force (BGF) and the Peoples Militia Force, both of which emerged from the NDAK, who officially transformed into a BGF in 2009.

The KIO/KIA regularly carries out anti-narcotic tasks in line with our policy, but we have started carrying this out within our reach in those areas, Lt-Gen Naw Bu said.

Last month a squad of activists from Patjasan,a Christian Kachin anti drug vigilante force, was heavily attacked with gunfire and bombs by local opium farmers, BGF troops , and the Peoples Militia Force when it came to destroy opium farms in Kanpaiti area. The violent February 25th attack on the unarmed Patjasan members resulted in the halting of its poppy eradication program.

Although troops from the KIAs Regiment 3 have started destroying opium farms in the Kampaiti area, it remains unclear however whether they will be able to fully carry out this task due to local opposition.
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Good news -- Georgia Governor Nathan Deal announced this morning that he will veto the so-called "religious liberty" bill recently passed by the state legislature.

In so many words, Governor Deal told the state legislature that they're meddling in things they shouldn't be.

The measure doesnt reflect the character of our state or the character of its people, the governor said Monday in prepared remarks. He said state legislators should leave freedom of religion and freedom of speech to the U.S. Constitution. Their efforts to purge this bill of any possibility that it would allow or encourage discrimination illustrates how difficult it is to legislate something that is best left to the broad protections of the First Amendment, he said.

He's not wrong but the truth may be more fiscal in nature.

The state has been threatened by a wide range of businesses, including deep pockets in Hollywood, who threatened to pull out of the state if the bill was signed into law.

I feel justified in my skepticism that Governor Deal would have vetoed the bill absent the threat of economic punishment. Money appears to be the only force that can persuade Republican governors not to sign similar bills that enable or codify discrimination. The governors of South Dakota and Tennessee have opposed attempts to codify anti-transgender discrimination into law because of the potential financial blow to their states.

Pressure had been mounting for weeks ahead of Governor Deal's veto and that may have been key in his decision to do so. In North Carolina, a bill that enables discrimination for religious reasons and codifies anti-transgender discrimination into law was passed by the legislature and signed by Governor McCrory in a single day. There was no time for pressure to build against it.
Nearly 45,000 people have signed a petition to allow guns at the Republican convention in July because why not?

Ohio is an open carry state but weapons will be strictly prohibited at the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland where the convention will be held.

The petition to change the rules reads as follows:

This is a direct affront to the Second Amendment and puts all attendees at risk. As the National Rifle Association has made clear, "gun-free zones" such as the Quicken Loans Arena are "the worst and most dangerous of all lies." The NRA, our leading defender of gun rights, has also correctly pointed out that "gun free zones... tell every insane killer in America... (the) safest place to inflict maximum mayhem with minimum risk." [...] Cleveland, Ohio is consistently ranked as one of the top ten most dangerous cities in America. By forcing attendees to leave their firearms at home, the RNC and Quicken Loans Arena are putting tens of thousands of people at risk both inside and outside of the convention site.

Yes. Great idea. Let's get as many hot-headed assholes with guns together as we can and stuff them all inside a contested convention where Donald fucking Trump is the frontrunner.

Speaking of which, the devil himself was asked about the petition and he demurred.

On Sunday, leading Republican presidential contender Donald Trump was asked about it but he declined to weigh in until he had a chance to read "the fine print." "I have to see what it says," he told ABC's Jonathan Karl, who asked him about the petition on the Sunday morning political show "This Week." "I'm a very, very strong person for Second Amendment. I think very few people are stronger. And I have to see the petition. But I'm not going to comment to you when I haven't seen it."

The way I see it, we're due for a heaping dose of schadenfreude one way or another. Either they don't allow guns at the convention and look like hypocrites, or they allow guns at the convention and squabbling delegates may actually shoot each other.

Perhaps we should reserve our amusement for now because this would thoroughly complicate matters for the city of Cleveland which is already preparing for riots at the convention.

Thunderdome 2016


Indian Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar releases the fifth edition of the global military yearbook "Brahmand World Defence Update 2016" at the BrahMos Aerospace pavilion. Also present on the ocassion, Shri Sudhir Mishra, CEO & MD of BrahMos Aerospace.

QUEPEM, GOA (BNS): Honourable Defence Minister of India Shri Manohar Parrikar on 28th of March 2016 released the fifth edition of the global military yearbook "Brahmand World Defence Update 2016" at the BrahMos Aerospace pavilion on the inaugural day of Defexpo India being held at Quepem, Goa.



Chief Minister of Goa Shri Laxmikant Parsekar and Dr. S Christopher, Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development and Director General, DRDO, were also present on the ocassion.



The yearbook was released in the presence of Shri Sudhir K Mishra, CEO & MD of BrahMos Aerospace, who handed over the first copy of the book to Shri Parrikar.



The Foreword of the yearbook has been written by Honourable Minister of State for Defence Shri Rao Inderjit Singh.



Brahmand World Defence Update 2016 provides incisive, comprehensive and up-to-date facts, figures and data on the armed forces of 113 countries worldwide with the objective to give a comprehensive assessment of the present-day global military order.



The yearbook has covered each country's overall military capability by listing its existing weapons' inventory, ongoing/ future arms procurement plans and annual defence spending besides detailing important political & defence personnel along with the country's conflict areas.



It has also provided detailed strategic information on 33 leading countries selected from each continent/region with key focus on their geopolitical importance, strategic relations, threat perception, defence capabilities and defence budget trends.



In its latest issue, the yearbook also includes a new chapter on "Land Warfare Systems" of six important countries - Brazil, China, France, India, Russia and the USA.



Even as modern warfare is rapidly evolving with a sea-change in military technology, the importance of ground troops and land platforms remains critical even today. The new chapter lists the existing inventory of land platforms of all the above six countries along with some new/futuristic ones which are expected to be inducted in future.



Like all its previous editions, the military yearbook promises to be a vital source of reference for the armed forces and defence establishments and also for the global arms manufacturers, research institutions, academia, think-tanks, Captains of industries and even for the general readers keen to know about latest global military trends.



The yearbook is published by Pentagon Press.






PANAJI (PTI): The ninth edition of DefExpo India, a biennial exhibition of Land, Naval and Internal Homeland Security Systems, starting on Monday in Goa, would be the largest one in its history, the Defence Ministry said.



The exhibition would be inaugurated by Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.



Over 1,000 companies, both foreign and Indian, are taking part in the exhibition this year. With a total of 510 companies, participation by Indian companies has doubled since 2014 which saw a participation by 256 companies. A total of 490 foreign companies are participating this year against 368 in DefExpo 2014.



"India is among a handful of countries in the world with indigenous capabilities in the defence fields such as multi-level strategic deterrence, ballistic missile defence, nuclear powered submarines, main battle tank, stealth destroyers, aircraft carriers and fourth generation fighter aircraft," an official release said.



"With the changes in government policies on defence acquisition and 'Make in India' campaign, considerable impetus is being given to indigenisation in defence sector," it said.



"The exhibition would be showcasing India's capabilities in Land, Naval and Security Systems as well as its emergence as an attractive destination for investment in Defence sector.



"This year's exhibition will be the largest DefExpo held to date," the ministry said.



In all 47 countries will be taking part in the exhibition against 30 countries last time.



They include Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Russia, Sweden, UK, and USA.


Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With an impending coal ban looming, Doug Collins hopes to see backhoes laying natural gas pipelines in Westman within the next two years.

Collins, a Municipality of Louise councillor, is part of The Growth and Prosperity Group, which includes stakeholders intent on bringing natural gas service to nearly 10,000 square kilometres of southern Manitoba.

Were much further ahead now than weve ever been when weve pursued this endeavour in the past, Collins said.

The groups headway is evident with the hiring of a full-time project manager to advance the project.

Ten municipalities Cartwright-Roblin, Prairie Lakes, Louise, Argyle, Pembina, Thompson, Lorne, Victoria, Norfolk-Treherne and Glenboro-South Cypress  chipped in to hire Jolene Rutter.

There are three main reasons why the South Central Natural Gas Line Distribution Project should be a priority, according to Rutter, who said estimates peg the project cost at $54 million.

A provincial ban on coal, one of the most common substitutes for natural gas on large agricultural operations, is set to come into effect in 2017.

There are at least four Hutterite colonies who are still using coal in the area and a number of commercial businesses and rural farmers that need to have a plan in place other than coal, Rutter said.

The ban eliminates the use of coal for use as a space heating fuel and is set to come into effect June 30, 2017.

Economic development is the second reason for the project, according to Rutter.

He said large agricultural operations have passed on the area in the past due to the lack of natural gas.

Finally, there will be improved energy efficiency and lower costs for local residents.

Rutter said the group hopes to secure infrastructure dollars from the Building Canada Fund, if the project meets regulations.

Well have to make the business case for the project, he said, acknowledging there has been a political shift away from fossil fuels such as natural gas.

Manitoba Hydro spokesman Scott Powell said theyre committed to working with stakeholders.

We continue to study the line, Powell said.

If it makes sense economically and makes sense for our ratepayers, its something we will definitely look at in the future.

A Hydro representative and Brandon-Souris Conservative MP Larry Maguire met with the group last week to discuss the project.

Maguire said hes supportive of the project and hopes the Liberal government will consider it under infrastructure programs.

Its an economic development creator, Maguire said. Well have to work with all levels of government to make it happen.

 cjrtweed@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @CharlesTweed
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Turnout for the election of next years Brandon University Students Union leaders was the worst in recent memory, said president-elect Nick Brown.

Only 5.5 per cent of the student population, 171 people, cast ballots in early March.

All seven people who put their name forward ran uncontested, leaving 10 positions vacant around the council table as of May 1. There was still a yes/no ballot available for each candidate.

Tom Bateman / The Brandon Sun Brandon University Students' Association president-elect Nick Brown is photographed on March 25, 2016 at Brandon University.

Our theory is its the first election without a referendum question, so last year nine people ran for three executive positions and seven directorships were filled uncontested, he said.

Voter fatigue in a year already featuring federal and provincial elections may have also played a role, Brown noted.

Jillian Vanderheiden will replace Brown as vice-president internal, Greg Monias will be vice-president external.Whitney Hodgins, Israt (Lisa) Mizan, Krista Charney and Kristin Smart were all acclaimed to directorships. Their term starts on May 1.

Apathy has long been an issue among the student population of more than 3,000, each of whom pay between $45.05 and $302.90 per year, plus $7.90 per credit hour in fees to the body.

Last year, 422 ballots were counted.

There are three vacancies on council this year, but in reality only 11 of the 17 positions have been active on the council, according toBrown.

In addition to his two years as a BUSU VP, Brown has served in various roles within McMaster Hall residence government. The 23-year-old has about two years remaining in a music education degree. Hell take over from current president Aaron Thompson.

Brown ran on promises to revive BUSUs relationship with two student groups, theLGBTTQ* Collective and the International Students Organization and to improve student engagement.

This years election numbers cant get much worse, Brown admitted, but the question of engagement is more extensive than the voter numbers.

He said they dont set goals for things like voter turnout numbers.

Thats not something we care about. We want students to function at the university in all aspects, with the relationships between students and professors  which has been an issue this year. We want students mental health to be good. Weve run mental health week for a few years now, and this year the Long Night Against Procrastination ran twice because those are things students need and want."

This springs Long Night drew about 300 people, Brown said, and last falls Crash the Courtyard pulled in 800 people.

Last years Crash the Courtyard, although it lost money, attracted 800 students, which was the largest gathering of students in institutional memory, according to Brown.

Brown said that planning for keeping that momentum running into next year is already well underway.

A big part of it is orientation, changing the way that we run that  getting the first years involved.

 tbateman@brandonsun.com

 Twitter: @tombatemann
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

NORTH OF AUSTIN  The family of Chase Martens is completely devastated after the two-year-olds body from was found by volunteers in a creek near his home early Saturday afternoon.

The toddler had been missing since Tuesday evening.

This appears to be exactly what we all thought it was  a tragedy, RCMP Sgt. Bert Paquet said at a news conference held near the family home later that afternoon.

A statement released on Sunday by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection said the toddlers family has asked for privacy as they come to grips with the tragic loss of their little boy.

The statement thanked the RCMP, Manitoba Office of the Fire Commissioner and volunteers who took up the search for Chase.

While they are completely heartbroken, they have been overwhelmed by the love and kindness our community has shown their family, the statement reads.

The creek, only half a kilometre south of the Martens house, was being re-examined by search and rescue volunteers from Winnipeg when they found him.

There are no obvious signs of foul play in the boys death, Paquet said.

We owe it to the family, the community and the province to exercise due diligence and investigate, he said. Well have a dedicated team of investigators focused on providing answers to a lot of questions that we have at this point.

The office of the chief medical examiner conducted an autopsy Sunday. Paquet said the autopsys results likely wont be released until the police investigation has concluded.

The creek was one of many high-probability areas search co-ordinators had identified.

The dynamics of water levels but also current change conditions daily, and sometimes by the hour, Paquet said, adding the spot where the boy was found would have been searched several times before Saturday afternoon.

The RCMP broke the news via Twitter at 2:47 p.m. on Saturday, nearly 93 hours after Destiny Turner last saw her son out a window as she was making supper on Tuesday evening.

In the five days that followed, a frenzied search through bush, fields and creeks grew to a five-kilometre radius around the Martens home, located north of Austin, a small community between Brandon and Portage la Prairie on the Trans-Canada Highway.

The search garnered national attention, and officials had to repeatedly turn willing volunteers away.

A lot of people offered to come here, but couldnt just because of logistics. We thank you for the good thoughts and the messages throughout the week, Paquet said.

Robert Smith joined members of the local crime watch and range patrol throughout the week. He said his team repeatedly walked up and down the shorelines of creeks in the area.

We live along a little creek  and the first thing you do when your kids are missing is you go to the creek and look, because kids are curious, Smith said.

Weather conditions hampered efforts throughout the search for Chase. Temperatures dropped well below freezing each of the four nights Martens was missing. The mid-afternoon sun melted enough to turn topsoil in the fields to mud. Elsewhere, thick deadfall and icy, shaded ponds made for slow going.

On Thursday, snow and wind creating near-whiteout conditions forced searchers out of the fields.

Earlier that day, Chases parents spoke to media, begging for anyone with information to come forward.

We are just devastated to have our son taken from us, Chases father Tom Martens said Thursday. The couple also has two older daughters.

On Saturday afternoon, a steady stream of pickup trucks, vans, buses and search-and-rescue equipment slowly paraded away from the Martens property.

It is difficult going through an investigation like this, Paquet said. Theres not a set time where you go from a rescue to a recovery and we always hope, but we knew the challenges after the first few nights.

Condolences for the Martens family and for searchers poured in via social media on Saturday. NDP Leader Greg Selinger and Progressive Conservative Leader Brian Pallister both tweeted notes.

Our hearts go out to the family of Chase Martens today, Selinger said.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Chase Martens at this sorrowful time, Pallister said.

An underwater recovery team and unmanned drones specializing in mapping and imaging from Saskatchewan were brought in by RCMP  joining several volunteer fire and search and rescue crews, Winnipegs Bear Clan Patrol, personnel from CFB Shilo, local Hutterites and Winnipeg police officers, including some from the dog unit, cadets and the Winnipeg Police Services Air-1 helicopter. Paquet commended the Office of the Fire Commissioners expertise in co-ordinating the search.

On Friday alone, more than 500 people were involved in the search. Paquet estimated about 30,000 volunteer hours in total were donated to the effort, the majority by total strangers to the Martens family.

Everybody that had something they could offer, they stepped forward. Im so proud to be a person from Austin because its just so wonderful to know that people would drop whatever they have to come to support a family thats in need, Smith said.

 tbateman@brandonsun.com, with files from The Canadian Press

 Twitter: @tombatemann
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This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

ACAPULCO, Mexico  Mexican authorities say a Canadian man is behind bars amid allegations he sexually abused minors on a busy street in Acapulco.

Reports say he was arrested Sunday after a passerby allegedly saw him embracing and touching young girls.

A passerby witnessed the event and filmed the aftermath of the alleged acts, posting the contents online.

The accused is confronted by the unnamed witness and repeatedly denies molesting the girls as he sits on a bench.

When confronted by the video-taker as to whether his behaviour is normal, the Canadian replies in Spanish that it is  that he likes them and they like him.

During the video, he appears to kiss one of the girls, a toddler, on the mouth, with the father nearby, before a police officer stops him. A release from the attorney general in Guerrero state identifies the man as Walter Zuk, 68, and says he is from Quebec.

The video was widely shared in Mexico and one local media reported a small protest against the accused in Acapulco on Monday.

Global Affairs Canada spokesman Francois Lasalle says the government is aware of a Canadian citizen having been detained in Acapulco, Mexico.

In an emailed statement, he said Canadian officials are in contact with local authorities and are ready to provide consular assistance.

Lasalle said the department could not provide any further information because of privacy laws.
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WINNIPEG - Manitoba Progressive Conservatives on the election campaign trail are promising more education money.

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WINNIPEG  A Liberal government in Manitoba would run deficits longer, avoid tax increases and impose spending caps on health care, social services and on other areas.

Liberal Leader Rana Bokhari on Monday outlined a fiscal plan to show how her party would pay for $143 million in promises made so far during the campaign for the April 19 provincial election  everything from new child-care spaces to northern food subsidies to a sales-tax reduction on haircuts.

The plan relies largely on deeper and longer deficits, which would be chipped away at by capping growth in government spending. Health-care costs would be increased at four per cent a year, education at 2.5 per cent and all other departments at two per cent.

If we want to get ourselves out of the (Premier Greg) Selinger mess, that means we have to hold spending on everything, Bokhari said. The plan is managed spending growth.

With spending restrained and the economy expected to grow slightly as it does each year in the province, the Liberals predict they would eventually balance the budget by 2022 at the earliest  two years later than the incumbent NDPs plan.

The Liberal fiscal outline does not include their costliest promise  elimination of the corporate payroll tax which nets the province $400 million annually. That tax cut would be phased in after the budget was balanced, Bokhari said.

The plan would rely on keeping the governments debt-servicing costs steady at $215 million a year, despite the increase in debt the plan contains. It would also rely on a drain of $15 million annually from the provinces rainy-day fund.

Bokhari added a balanced budget could be pushed back if there were any floods or other natural disasters. Manitoba dealt with costly flooding in 2011, 2009 and 2006.

If theres a disaster, if something is happening to Manitobans (and) they need help, our target gets moved.

The New Democrats responded Monday by saying the Liberals are underestimating the cost of their promises.

Theyve made expensive promises they cant explain or account for, which means they either cant deliver or have no interest in delivering, NDP spokesman Andrew Tod said in a written statement.

The Liberals have one seat in the legislature, but opinion polls suggest their popularity has risen sharply in recent months. Much of that support has come at the expense of the New Democrats, who dropped in opinion polls after raising the provincial sales tax in 2013.

The New Democrats focused their campaign on health care Monday. Selinger said a re-elected NDP government would cut the cost of ambulance rides in half and reduce hospital parking fees. The ambulance fee promise matches a promise already made by the Progressive Conservatives.

Selinger also said he would remove the per-kilometre ambulance fee for rural and northern patients. The total cost of the promises is $20 million a year, he added.

Pallister promised to more than double funding for post-secondary scholarships and bursaries. The program would be cost-shared with matching private donations and the government would put up an extra $6.75 million a year.

Pallister also said he would work with post-secondary advisory councils and industry to develop student-aid programs focusing on strong labour market outcomes.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With the United States of America in the midst of the primary stage of its 2016 election, many Canadians are sitting upstairs laughing. Indeed, the American election does seem more like a ridiculous soap opera than a demonstration of democratic decisions.

With its heartwarming yet somehow still cringe-worthy cast of a loud mouthed billionaire, an ex-Canadian, a lady that just wants to see her old house, an old socialist and a bunch of other characters that have been deemed irrelevant by both the press and the American citizens, the show boasts that anybody can somehow manage to pick their favourite.

Horrifyingly, though, as the primaries continue, it is becoming very apparent that a few unlikely and unsuitable candidates are leading the race. Currently, Canadians are playing the flabbergasted yet strangely entertained audience to this debacle. Unfortunately, due to the fact that Canadians are physically unable to cast a vote on Nov. 8, many of us have adopted a mentality where we simply could not care less about the result of this years American election.

However, this soap opera just happens to be one of critical importance to everyone, including Canadians. If the wrong person manages to arise victorious, the negative consequences will not just be felt by the voting Americans.

In fact, due to the U.S.s international influence, anyone could be affected by this election. Our home country of Canada just happens to share the longest border in the world with this super powered state, and any decision made by its government may make an impact on our lives. These impacts may be either positive or negative, and they depend entirely on the candidate that is elected.

After Super Tuesday on March 1, when Republican candidate Donald Trump won seven out of 11 states, there was a clear spike in Google searches for How do I move to Canada? It seems that while there are a majority of people who want this man elected into office, the ones that dont would rather leave than deal with him being their president. Many nominees also have clear policies which deal with illegal immigration, and some plan to deport large numbers of people.

In addition to this, Trump has proposed a possible ban on Muslims if he is elected. If this many people will end up being afraid of, or literally forced out of the country by their own government, some of them will probably end up coming north. This appears to be good news for certain cities in Canada, such as Cape Breton, which recently pitched an online advertisement for people to move there should Trump be victorious.

While this advertisement started out as a joke, Americans seem to have found it and are making serious inquiries as to how to make the move. However, hearing about this, we are forced to consider the idea that there may be people who will have to practically flee the United States due to discriminatory and xenophobic policies.

Many of the people who would be affected by these policies have already fled their birth countries or prior homes to escape persecution.

Now that they are American, these possible policies may end up threatening these peoples safety and security in their new home. Even just thinking about this idea seems wrong. The United States is currently known as one of the great free nations of the world; the idea that the wrong candidate may result in Americans having to leave their home country due to a lack of this freedom is appalling.

Currently, the U.S. happens to be Canadas largest trade partner, with an average of 77 per cent of our total exports going south across the border. These exports make up a large portion of our economy, and if anything occurs which causes us to lose a large portion of our trade with the U.S., it may end up harming us substantially. Additionally, the U.S. often calls on Canada to support them during wars or conflicts with other nations.

In 2003, it was a harrowing day for all Canadians when Prime Minister Jean Chretien decided not to support George W. Bushs invasion of Iraq, as many feared that America may withhold trade for our refusal. Thankfully, the American government made the decision to not retaliate for this lack of support, and relations were not as strained between our two nations as some people had anticipated.

Unfortunately with this election, Canada may have to make this decision again, and this time, there may be consequences for the decisions we make. Many candidates in the U.S. elections have plans to invade countries and start wars. If these candidates are elected, Canada may be asked to support our neighbours in these conquests. As we have seen, some of these candidates are quite volatile, and may seek retaliation if Canada refuses to aid them in their potentially foolish warfare.

However, with this monumental decision occurring just south of us, there is alarmingly little that we can do to influence our American neighbours. In fact, apart from making sure to get in contact with any known relatives with American citizenship, there really isnt any way that Canadians can gain a say on who we want to ascend to the role of American president. As we cant fill out a ballot for ourselves, it seems that it might just be best to just have faith in the ability of the U.S. to choose a candidate which will leave a positive mark on their nation and the world. Regardless of which way this election goes, it is apparent that it will be a true show of democracy and that the individual voices of the American citizens will be heard.

One thing is certain at this point in the election: whether this super-powered nations government ends up being a joke or a nightmare, Canada will still be right next door.

 Alexandra Forsythe is a Grade 10 student at Ecole secondaire Neelin High School.
Opinion

Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

WINNIPEG  The United Kingdom is doing it. So is the United States. Australia, Denmark, Israel, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Syria and other countries are doing it, too.

And now, finally, so is Canada.

Manitoba feminist icon Nellie McClung was a member of the Famous Five who fought for womens rights. Shes among the suggested nominees on a website about which notable Canadian woman should be on a new banknote.

On March 8, International Womens Day, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced that at long last, an iconic Canadian woman will be featured on the first banknote of its next series in 2018  and you get to pick her.

But why so long, Canada? Its such a simple thing. Such a small step. A mere pebble in the ocean, really. Victoria-based writer and historian Merna Forster has likely been asking the same question.

Forster deserves thanks. Its largely because of her efforts a Canadian woman will appear on a bill at all. She began writing about the absence of Canadian women on our money in 2011. The Bank of Canada had decided to eliminate tiny depictions on one banknote of the Famous Five who fought for womens rights, in favour of an icebreaker.

By that point, Forster had unearthed enough material for two books about forgotten Canadian heroines and knew there were plenty of accomplished Canadian women; they were just not visible or known to many.

She started a petition in July 2013, and to date more than 73,000 people have signed it. Yet it took more than three years of Forster writing letter after letter to the Bank of Canada, cabinet ministers, other members of Parliament and many others. Though often discouraged, she ultimately found encouragement from those who supported the campaign.

After slogging away at my campaign since 2013, Im proud that it was finally successful. Im proud of the more than 73,000 people who signed the petition and supported the campaign for years. We did it, she said via email.

Forster continued, One woman said she was going to frame the first bill to appear with a Canadian woman on the face, because she helped make that happen. As one person wrote, Awesome. We can make a difference.

Glad to be able to savour the victory, Forster also said, But, of course, honouring one Canadian woman on our notes is only a first step, and Id like to see gender parity on the new series as is the case in Sweden and Australia. Why not?

Of course, why not? Sweden and Australia will depict equal numbers of men and women on their notes.

To those who question why gender matters (and sadly, there are plenty of misogynistic posts online), Forster says, Lets show only female Canadian historical figures for a change! If gender doesnt matter, nobody should mind if thats the approach taken for any new money  right?

Frances Wright, founder of the Famous 5 Foundation, told reporters she also would like to see a woman featured on more than one bill.

In a public message posted along with her petition, Forster says Women are not absent from the list of notable worthies in Canada, just notably absent  in many of the images that surround us and which contribute to our view of the world and our potential role in it.

Thus the importance of what to some may seem merely symbolic or trivial.

Not only do we not learn much about Canadian women throughout history, you have only to look around today at our schools, monuments, parks, municipal buildings and street names in our own city to see how few are named for Canadian women. Out of 223 public schools in Winnipeg, fewer than 10 are named for a Canadian woman.

Montreal is one city that has stepped up recently and wants to name more streets and buildings after women in time for its 375th anniversary in 2017.

Surely Winnipeg, or Manitoba, can do the same. This year is the 100th anniversary of the year most Manitoban women first obtained the right to vote. Lets not let it end there.

One woman on one banknote may be a mere pebble in the ocean, but with apologies to Pascal, the entire ocean can indeed be affected by one pebble.

Those who wish to nominate a Canadian woman have until April 15 to do so.

<t-4>The Bank of Canada is accepting nominations at bankofcanada.ca/

banknoteable.

For ideas, you can visit Forsters website at womenonbanknotes.ca.

 Cheryl Girard is a Winnipeg writer who likes to write about history.
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

WASHINGTON  The United States is in the throes of a shadow campaign that could pick the next president  an election being fought far from the spectacle of prime-time leaders debates and the glare of national news cameras.

Republican party members at county and state-level meetings are electing the rules committee that will set the guidelines for the summer nominating convention in Cleveland.

This election is also held every four years, but people dont usually pay much attention, because it generally doesnt matter. This time, though, it could determine whether Donald Trump becomes the nominee.

Republican presidential candidate, businessman Donald Trump speaks in Vandalia, Ohio, on March 12, 2016. The United States is in the throes of a shadow campaign that could pick the next president - an election being fought far from the spectacle of prime-time leaders' debates and the glare of national news cameras. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Kiichiro Sato

Theres a better-than-average chance that the Republican party will have its first contested convention in generations. Convention rules are written by a 112-member committee that decides: who can be on the ballot; whether the contest is only open to candidates whove won a certain number of primaries; whether a famous last-minute entrant like Mitt Romney or Paul Ryan might be eligible; and whether delegates allotted to a candidate must vote for him on a first, second or third ballot.

Jeremy Blosser was among the few Americans who actually paid attention to this rules committee last time. He attended its meetings at the convention four years ago.

Even with the lower stakes, he recalls the battle being intense. There was a messy scene on the convention floor as peoples microphones were cut off, with party brass ignoring shouts and points of order.

This was when the party imposed a rule designed to prevent a challenge from no-hope candidate Ron Paul. The party insisted candidates had to have won delegate majorities in eight states, effectively crowning Mitt Romney.

Blosser can barely imagine what itll be like this time.

Its a complete mess, said Blosser, who was an alternate delegate from Texas in 2012.

Anybody who wants to actually contest it needs legal people, and rules people, and they need a nationwide network into the delegates to talk to them and prep them for whats coming. Its a herculean task.

Its already getting messy.

Trump has warned of possible riots should he be stripped of the nomination, and threatened a lawsuit. Hes unswayed by critics who say that if he gets out-organized, hes lost fair and square.

It tells you what a crooked system we have and what a rotten political system we have, Trump told ABC this weekend.

I have millions of votes more than Lying Ted (Cruz) Whats going on in the Republican party is a disgrace.

The broad issue stems from Trumps unique historical position.

Hes won by far the most primaries  but not enough to secure a first-ballot victory. He also faces a broad pocket of resistance within the party. Unless he starts winning by bigger margins, hell fall short of 50-per-cent-plus-one on the first ballot, and start facing a challenge on the second ballot.

That gives tremendous power to the committee writing the rules.

The process of picking its 112 members (two per state and territory) is already underway. Its started with hundreds of meetings at the county level, where delegates are chosen for state conventions. State conventions then pick representatives who will set the rules as the national convention starts in July in Cleveland.

Trumps rag-tag, rookie-heavy team faces a tall challenge.

Media reports say his preferred candidates got wiped out in Louisianas rules-committee race. And despite the fact that he won that state primary, hes even fallen behind in the delegate count there, as Cruz reportedly surpassed him by winning over some delegates whod been Marco Rubios before he dropped out.

A similar dynamic could play out in South Carolina. Trump easily won that primary  but rules there dont allow first-time state-convention-goers as delegates. That means he cant bring in a team of Trump outsiders, and must rely on party establishment types in his delegation to stick with him beyond a first ballot.

One high-ranking Republican says thats the way it works.

Curly Haugland of the Republican National Committee issued a public letter this month saying convention delegates should be free to vote as they choose. He calls it a myth that voters in primaries pick party nominees. Its the delegates and, he says, at every convention except 1976 theyve been allowed to choose whomever they want.

Without the use of force to bind the votes of delegates  primaries are nearly worthless beauty contests,' Haugland wrote.

Thats right. Every delegate  is a completely free agent.

But the veteran of the 2012 convention rules committee quoted by the website Politico offered a bleaker take.

Said Tom Lundstrum of Arkansas: Itll be a bloodbath.
Update 1.14pm: Calls are being made for increased safety measures at a Dublin railway track following the death of a three-year-old and his father yesterday.

It is understood a child died following a similar incident a decade ago.

Id like to offer my support to the families affected by this because there is a terrible tragedy which has stopped the whole area, said Local Counsellor Brendan Carr.

Wed be calling on Iarnrod Eireann and the City Council to sit down, and weve asked them this before, for both parties to sit down at this stage and come to some resolution for this particular part of this track.

Earlier: The father and son found in a Dublin stream yesterday have been named locally as Sean Sweeney and three-year-old Lee.

Post mortems will be carried out on their remains later today.

They were discovered by a member of the public at the back of Ashington Green housing estate in Ashtown at around 3pm in the afternoon.

The area of the stream, which links the Royal Canal behind the Ashington housing estate, was sealed off for a time.

Gardai say at this stage it appears they fell into the water and died.
President Michael D Higgins has suggested Britain's "imperial triumphalism" be re-examined in the same way as Irish republicanism has been over recent years.

In a keynote speech at an event marking Ireland's Easter Rising against British rule a century ago, President Higgins said there has been much discussion of violence by Irish nationalists at the turn of the last century.

But he noted the "supremacist and militarist imperialism" of Britain over the same time had not been reviewed with "the same fault-finding edge".

"In the context of 1916, this imperial triumphalism can be traced, for example, in the language of the (British Army) recruitment campaigns of the time, which evoked mythology, masculinity and religion, and glorified the Irish blood as having 'reddened the earth of every continent'," he said.

"But this is for another day."

President Michael D. Higgins takes to the stage in the @MansionHouseDub, at the #ReflectingTheRising event: pic.twitter.com/2fhowxfd39  President of Ireland (@PresidentIRL) March 28, 2016

President Higgins made the remarks at a talk entitled Remembering 1916 at Dublin's Mansion House today.

The President said there "has been a great deal of critical reassessment of aspects of the Rising and, in particular, of the myths of redemptive violence that were at the heart, not just of Irish nationalism, but also of imperial nationalism".

He added: "My view is that the latter has not, perhaps, been revisited with the same fault-finding edge as the former.

"Indeed, while the long shadow cast by what has been called 'the Troubles' in Northern Ireland has led to a scrutiny of the Irish Republican tradition of 'physical violence', a similar review of supremacist and militarist imperialism remains to be fully achieved."

President Higgins described the leaders of the 1916 rebellion - who were executed by Britain - as "advanced thinkers, selfless women and men, who took all the risks to ensure that the children of Ireland would, in the future, live in freedom and access their fair share of Ireland's prosperity".

But he added their vision was not realised in the founding years of the new Irish State.

President Higgins said Irish people have a duty to retrieve the idealism at the heart of the Easter Rising.

"But we have a greater duty to imagine and to forge a future illuminated by the unfulfilled promises of our past," he said.

"All of us are invited, then, in this year of 2016, to reach for the ideals and hopes that animated so many of the men and women of 1916 in their struggle for freedom, equality and social justice.

"Informed by the manifest needs of our times, let us test again these ideals; let us retrieve the courage, the utopianism, of 1916 - and let us add to it, as we craft, together, a new and inspiring vision for the coming generations.

"Let us revive the best of the promise of 1916, so that those coming generations might experience freedom in the full sense of the term - freedom from poverty, freedom from violence and insecurity, and freedom from fear."

President Higgins made his remarks as wreaths were laid at seven locations around Dublin which were key to the revolt.

Rebels took up positions a century ago on Easter Monday at Boland's Mill, the Jacob's Factory on Bishop Street, City Hall, The Four Courts, The Royal College of Surgeons, Moore Street and the South Dublin Union on the site of the present-day St James' Hospital.

The makeshift garrisons were chosen for their strategic locations and proximity to British Army strongholds in the city.

Wreaths were also laid in Athenry, Cork, Enniscorthy and Ashbourne.

During the day, more than 500 free talks, exhibitions, debates, films, performances and dramatisations were put on to explore the tumultuous events which played a pivotal role in shaping Ireland.
Dutch police who arrested a French national in Rotterdam on suspicion of "planning a terror attack" found ammunition at a house they searched.

Wim de Bruin, a spokesman for the national prosecutor's office, said today that police who carried out raids the previous evening seized items including ammunition, money and drugs.
A man detained by Belgian authorities in connection with the Brussels attacks has been released by a judge.

The judge found there was no evidence to justify holding Faycal C, the Belgian federal prosecutor's office said in a statement today.
A US Capitol Police officer has been shot at the Capitol Visitor Centre complex, and a suspect was taken into custody, Capitol officials and police said.

The event unfolded with Congress on recess and politicians back in their constituencies.
The prime minister of Pakistan has vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the suicide bombing in Lahore that targeted Christians gathered for Easter, killing 70 people.

A breakaway Taliban faction, which publicly supports the so-called 'Islamic State' group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

In the capital of Islamabad, extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings in the city centre.

The demonstrators set cars on fire, demanding that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia.

The army, which was deployed Sunday to contain the rioters, remained out on the streets.

After a meeting with his security officials today, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the perpetrators of the Lahore attack "cowards" and vowed to defeat the "extremist mindset".

He also cancelled a planned trip to Great Britain.

The military reported raids in eastern Punjab province, where several deadly militant organisations are based, and said dozens were arrested as Pakistan started observing a three-day mourning period declared after the attack.

The Lahore bombing took place in a park that was crowded with families, with many women and children among the victims. At least 300 people were wounded in the bombing.#

Even though a breakaway Taliban group, known as Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said it specifically targeted Pakistan's Christian community, most of those killed in Lahore were Muslims, who were also gathered in the park for the Sunday weekend holiday.

The park is a popular spot in the heart of Lahore.

Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal.

Another 12 bodies have not yet been identified, he said.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told the Associated Press that along with striking Christians celebrating Easter, the attack also meant to protest Pakistan's military operation in the tribal regions.

The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian Church in Lahore last year.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Mr Sharif's pro-western stance.

They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women.

Mr Sharif had earlier this month officially recognised holidays celebrated by the country's minority religions, the Hindu festival of Holi and the Christian holiday of Easter.

In Lahore, dozens of families were bidding final farewell to their slain kin during funeral ceremonies.

Shama Pervez, widowed mother of 11-year-old Sahil Pervez who died in the blast, was inconsolable during funeral prayers. Her son had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed in the park, all Muslims.

His 10 year-old nephew Fahad Ali lay in a bed in his home, his battered body almost completely damaged. He had lost his parents and a sister, another two sisters were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything, to continue at school," he cried.

Forensic experts sifted through the debris in the park.

The suicide bomb had been a crude device loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the bodies of its victims to cause maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail.

He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, saying he was known as a militant recruiter.

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Lahore bombing, saying that in targeting a park filled with children, the attack "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values".

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" to the authorities and the people of Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."
LAHORE: The activists of PTI took to the streets on Friday in protest after the Election Commission of Pakistan...
The terror attacks in Europe, Africa, and now Pakistan were carried out by "the scum of the earth", Diana Abdel-Rahman, a high profile Canberra Muslim community leader, has said.

"Islamic State and the Taliban are not representative of Muslims," she said. "IS is not Islamic and it's not a state. These are just words they use to sanctify themselves.

Mohammed Ali at his Franklin home in Canberra. He says everyone in Pakistan is a target regardless of their faith. Credit:Melissa Adams

"What sane person would even think of going to a playground to kill children?"

Mohammed Ali, a Pakistani expatriate who lives in Canberra, said it appeared no ACT residents had lost relatives in the Easter Sunday attack in Lahore.
ANU students living at Fenner Hall are alarmed about a proposal which would see them moved to new accommodation on campus and suffer a $50 a week rent increase as a result.

Sean Ding moved from Melbourne to study law and commerce at ANU and after four years living there was now the president of its residents' committee.

Sean Ding, president of the Fenner Hall Residents Community. He is pictured outside the ageing Fenner Hall ANU residential units on Northbourne Avenue. Credit:Graham Tidy

"Fenner Hall is, first of all, not the most dilapidated building," Mr Ding said.

"There are certain colleges on Daley Road that are in far worse structural condition than this hall."
The fluttering, multi-coloured flags have been taken down from Exhibition Park once more as the National Folk Festival wraps up for another year.

The 50th anniversary of the festival saw upwards of 45,000 visitors through the gates over the Easter long weekend.

National Folk Festival volunteers Sian Wedd (left) and Mia McCaskie, both 19, work on a mural. Credit:Jamila Toderas

National Folk Festival director Pam Merrigan said she was "over the moon" at the number of people who turned up.

"The site has been absolutely teeming with people, the venues have been full," she said.
South Canberra residents may see smoke curling up from south-western corner of the Brindabellas this week as a 2700-hectare hazard reduction burn takes place.

The burn in the north-eastern corner of Kosciuszko National Park started on Monday, and is one of 27 scheduled this autumn, taking in more than 32,000 hectares.

The sun setting behind the Brindabellas. South Canberra residents may also see smoke over there as a hazard reduction burn takes place. Credit:Chris Blunt

National Parks and Wildlife Service regional manager Mick Pettitt said the burn in the vicinity of Black Bottle Hill is expected to put up "quite a lot" of smoke due to its size.

He said its strategic location would help reduce the risk of bushfire coming into summer.
Eggs from farms with 10,000 birds per hectare - more than six times the number considered fair by consumer and animal welfare groups - could be labelled "free range" under proposed, legally binding standards.

Consumer affairs ministers will this week sign-off on one of four legal definitions, three of which hinge on hens having "meaningful access" to the outdoor range, with a maximum stocking density of 10,000 hens per hectare.

The list of options leaked to Fairfax Media, show one option is the status quo, meaning nothing changes and consumer confusion would still abound.

Victor Dominello, the NSW minister leading the charge on developing a mandatory information standard, said he wants "the prominent disclosure of outdoor stocking density" on labelling, whether, 1500, 5000 or 10,000 birds per hectare.
Why does Telstra like to call itself a technology company rather than a telco? Because it doesn't want to be a dumb communications infrastructure company  it wants to be an innovative software company. It wants to be the disruptor not the disrupted.

Its decision to sell the majority of its holding in Foxtel now must make one query Telstra's credentials as smart or ahead of the curve.

Cast back 10 years and most will remember the then-Telstra chief executive, Sol Trujillo's decision NOT to sell the company's directories business  which was essentially the Yellow and White pages.

It ignored the already significant attack from Google which would (ultimately) annihilate the directories business in what became Telstra's great flat earth moment.
A Sydney lawyer has alleged 7-Eleven employed a de facto policy of ethnically screening its franchisees and, with ANZ, luring them with "easy" loans they could not repay.

Mass underpayment of employees and fabrication of payroll records within 7-Eleven franchises has been exposed by Fairfax Media and the ABC.

But in an unpublished submission to a Senate Inquiry, Sydney lawyer Stewart Levitt alleges the company practised at least a "de facto ethnic selection of franchisees" in order to select store owners less likely to blow the whistle on employment practices.

Mr Levitt is a partner at Levitt Robinson and represents about 30 7-Eleven franchisees and has announced an intended class action against the company and ANZ bank.
Cigarettes imported from Ukraine and sold cheaply in major supermarkets are not evidence of a price war, anti-smoking advocates say.

Fairfax Media last week revealed that Coles, IGA and Foodworks stores are selling Peter Stuyvesant Blues imported from the Ukraine for as little as $20 a pack.

The Ukrainian-made Imperial Tobacco cigarettes range between $3 and $6 cheaper. Credit:Joe Armao

The Ukrainian cigarettes, made by Imperial Tobacco, are between $3 and $6 cheaper than packets of the same brand manufactured in New Zealand.
Online retail pioneer Ruslan Kogan started window shopping at Dick Smith as a precocious nine-year-old looking for parts to build his own computer.

"Dick Smith was always a place I'd go to with my parents  I'd look at the gadgets and prices for hard drives and RAM," the 33-year-old founder of online consumer electronics retailer Kogan told Fairfax Media after buying Dick Smith's online business this month.

"I wasn't a great customer back then  I did a lot more looking than buying," Mr Kogan said. His parents had arrived from the Soviet republic of Belorussia three years earlier in the late 1980swith $90 to their names and Ruslan preferred to source cheap computer parts at swap meets. "But it was always something that I loved."

Mr Kogan may have fond memories of Dick Smith in the good old days, but there is no room for nostalgia in his ambitious turnaround plan for the once iconic brand.
The year 1948 found Australian ambassador Douglas Copland in an apprehensive mood. China's Nationalist government was losing the civil war against Mao Zedong's communists. Despite Copland's advice, Australia was uninterested in building relations with what would soon be the People's Republic.

Frustrated with the impotent diplomacy amid the early salvos of the Cold War, Copland returned to Canberra as the first first vice-chancellor of the new Australian National University.

Then Australian ambassador Douglas Copland, right, with Chinese leader Chiang Kai-shek in March 1948. Credit:National Library of Australia

When setting out from Shanghai, he told his hosts: "I regret leaving but, in returning to the academic world, I do not feel that I am deserting the world of China. One of the special fields of study to be fostered by the new university at Canberra is Pacific studies, and this will ... keep me in active touch with many phases of Chinese life and scholarship ... Australia has much to profit by the closest association with China."

With Australia's first ambassador to China, Sir Frederic Eggleston, on the ANU council, Copland helped build Pacific studies  one of the university's four foundation research schools, and now the College of Asia and the Pacific  into a world-leading research and teaching enterprise.
We may have lost faith in traditional politics but what alternatives do we have? Can we replace politicians with something better? Machine thinking One alternative is to design policy-making systems in such a way that policy-makers are sheltered from undue outside influence. In so doing, so the argument goes, a space will be created within which objective scientific evidence, rather than vested interests, can inform policy-making. At first glance this seems worth aspiring to. But what of the many policy issues over which political opinion remains deeply divided, such as climate change, same sex marriage or asylum policy? Policy-making is and will remain inherently political and policies are at best evidence-informed rather than evidence-based. But can some issues be depoliticised and should we consider deploying robots to perform this task?

Those focusing on technological advances may be inclined to answer yes. After all, complex calculations that would have taken years to complete by hand can now be solved in seconds using the latest advances in information technology. Such innovations have proven extremely valuable in certain policy areas. For example, urban planners examining the feasibility of new infrastructure projects now use powerful traffic modelling software to predict future traffic flows. Those focusing on social and ethical aspects, on the other hand, will have reservations. Technological advances are of limited use in policy issues involving competing beliefs and value judgements. A fitting example would be euthanasia legislation, which is inherently bound up religious beliefs and questions about self-determination. We may be inclined to dismiss the issue as exceptional, but this would be to overlook that most policy issues involve competing beliefs and value judgements, and from that perspective robot politicians are of little use. Moral codes

A supercomputer may be able to make accurate predictions of numbers of road users on a proposed ring road. But what would this supercomputer do when faced with a moral dilemma? Most people will agree that it is our ability to make value judgements that sets us apart from machines and makes us superior. But what if we could program agreed ethical standards into computers and have them take decisions on the basis of predefined normative guidelines and the consequences arising from these choices? If that were possible, and some believe it is, could we replace our fallible politicians with infallible artificially intelligent robots after all? The idea may sound far-fetched, but is it? Robots may well become part of everyday life sooner than we think. For example, robots may soon be used to perform routine tasks in aged-care facilities, to keep elderly or disabled people company and some have suggested robots could be used in prostitution. Whatever opinion we may have about robot politicians, the groundwork for this is already being laid.

A recent paper showcased a system that automatically writes political speeches. Some of these speeches are believable and it would be hard for most of us to tell if a human or machine had written them. Politicians already use human speech writers so it may only be a small step for them to start using a robot speech writer instead. The same applies to policy-makers responsible for, say, urban planning or flood mitigation, who make use of sophisticated modelling software. We may soon be able to take out humans altogether and replace them with robots with the modelling software built into itself. We could think up many more scenarios, but the underlying issue will remain the same: the robot would need to be programmed with an agreed set of ethical standards allowing it to make judgements on the basis of agreed morals. The human input
Comparing cultural traits in these politically correct times can elicit rebukes, but brushing over the differences can be even more costly.

With more than a million migrants welcomed into Germany and thousands of others into neighbouring countries, Europeans are asking hard questions about cultural differences. Can Germany integrate so many migrants without having to change its cultural norms, such as what is considered acceptable dress for women? Did culture play a role in the sexual assaults on New Year's Eve celebrations in Cologne? The migration crisis has forced Europeans to debate these pressing questions but many wonder whether it is too little, too late for Europe.

Refugees walk to a chartered train at the railway station of Passau, Germany Tuesday Jan. 2016. Migrants continue to arrive in Germany to seek for asylum. (Armin Weigel/dpa via AP) Credit:Armin Weigel

In Australia discussing differences of culture and religion is often frowned upon. The popular response is to present an image of compassion and universalism, but this misplaced projection of common humanity reflects a dangerous mix of arrogance and ignorance.

There is a presumption that all cultures resemble our culture, with the same hopes, aspirations, norms and rules. The arrogance of this view emerges through the idea that our values are universal. This argument, commonly held by the left, sees Western European history and its roots in Christianity as inconsequential. Instead, the human rights movement that went global in the 20th century is somehow regarded as common to all peoples and nations.
In the rollcall of cinema's seriously cool movie leather jackets (think: Marlon Brando in The Wild One, Tom Cruise in Top Gun) Han Solo's battered bomber jacket in Star Wars comes close to being the ultimate.

And now Harrison Ford has sent Star Wars fans into a frenzy by putting the iconic item up for auction in a charity fund-raiser.

Ford, who was seen wearing the jacket in the most recent outing for the franchise, The Force Awakens, has even signed and dated the lining  just so you can settle any arguments with skeptical friends in the pub.

The jacket is for sale on the auction site If Only and the proceeds will go to benefit an epilepsy charity.
Almost 14 years since Midnight Oil disbanded its former guitarist and songwriter Jim Moginie admits he could easily be donning a waistcoat and touring RSL clubs playing the band's hits.

But instead his latest live show combines six guitarists, two painters and a three-metre canvas in something more akin to an "art happening" than a rock show.

Michael Trifunovic, Kent Steedman, Jim Moginie, Matthew Steffen, Tim Kevin, Alex Young will perform The Colour Wheel at Tuggeranong Arts Centre while artist Chantal Mahoney paints.

In The Colour Wheel Moginie and five other guitarists perform his orchestral compositions while a group of artists get to work recreating said colour wheel on a canvas in an attempt to connect music and colour and induce a state of synaesthesia for the audience when you "see music and hear colour".

"It sounds like hippy waffle, but when we do it it's kind of very strong and intense and dreamy at times," Moginie says.
Ghostwriting is (rightly) frowned upon today, though in music it has had some distinguished practitioners.

Mozart unwittingly ghostwrote what he managed to finish of his final work, the Requiem, for Count Franz von Walsegg who apparently planned to pass it off as his own. Franz Xaver Sussmayr then ghostwrote what Mozart didn't finish and Mozart's widow passed it off as Mozart's.

The modern listener is like the hapless teacher trying to work out who copied what from whom and hoping that the best bits are by Mozart.

They probably are, unless you are particularly attached to the Sanctus, Benedictus and parts of the Agnus Dei.

The Philharmonia's performance, conducted by Brett Weymark, juxtaposed Mozart's incomplete final piece with the Australian premiere of the final work, It is Finished by English composer John Tavener and completed just before his death in 2013, with shorter popular works by both composers filling out the program.

The program started with a slow, reverent performance of another piece from Mozart's final year, his Ave Verum Corpus, K. 618.
A decision by international aid group Doctors Without Borders to pull medical care from a Greek refugee camp shows a doctor boycott of Australian detention centres would be ethically justified, a Queensland doctor says.

Doctors Without Borders, also known as Medecins Sans Frontieres, announced last week it has suspended work at the Moria refugee centre on the Greek island of Lesbos in protest over a European Union plan to force refugees who land in Greece to return to Turkey.

Other international organisations including the UNHCR and Save the Children have also reportedly halted their logistical and aid programs at Greek Island refugee camps, saying they want no part in a system of detention and deportation.

MSF spokeswoman Marie Elisabeth Ingres said it took the difficult decision because "continuing to work inside would make us complicit in a system we consider to be both unfair and inhumane".
One of the few paths to a life in Australia for asylum seekers appears to have been blocked amid claims the federal government has approved just a handful of temporary visas for which 2000 people have applied.

Labor has slammed the government's failure to process onshore asylum seekers as inept, and the Greens say the government never intended to follow through on the policy.

It has been 18 months since then immigration minister Scott Morrison said so-called "illegal" boat arrivals would not be granted permanent protection, as he sought to reintroduce temporary protection visas  a controversial Howard-era measure that Labor abolished in 2008.
The Islamic State's reputation as a jihadist juggernaut  vital to its recruitment  relies on continued momentum.

So it's alarming but not surprising that the Islamic State-linked network behind the Brussels and Paris attacks explored the vulnerability of Belgium's nuclear facilities.

A nuclear power plant at Tihange, Huy, Belgium. Credit:Hullie/Commons

Belgian media have reported that the Bakraoui brothers, who carried out suicide strikes at Brussels airport and metro, were responsible for hiding a camera opposite the home of a senior Belgian nuclear scientist with the possible intention of kidnapping him or members of his family to gain access to nuclear material or installations.

While experts believe it is unlikely any terrorist group could build or obtain a nuclear weapon, the construction of a "dirty bomb" with radioisotopes is entirely possible.
Helen Mirren has many accolades to her name  Damehood, Oscar, Emmys, Baftas, Golden Globes  and while parenthood may not be amongst them, missing out on becoming a mother is something that made her sob ... once, for just 20 minutes.

The 70-year-old refreshingly frank, A-list actor told the Sunday Times' Culture magazine over the weekend that there was a time in her life when she regretted not having children  after she watched the 1989 film Parenthood starring Steve Martin.

When she realised she would never experience motherhood Helen Mirren "sobbed"  once, for 20 minutes. Credit:Jason Merritt

"I love children, they are so funny and so sweet, but I never wanted my own," she said. "I have never had a moment of regret about not having children. Well, I lie. When I watched the movie, Parenthood, I sobbed for about 20 minutes."
Warren Buffett warned investors not to "bet against America" in his latest shareholder letter but Platinum Asset Management's Kerr Neilson, for one, seems happy to take that bet.

He's in a lonely place. The third slide in Platinum's latest results presentation shows that 14 of the Platinum International Fund's competitors are backing Buffett's view, with their weightings to US equities clustered around the 50-60 per cent mark.

Some fund managers including Kerr Neilson are betting on Asia. Credit:Getty Images

The Platinum International Fund, meanwhile, stands alone at just 11 per cent (with the remainder dominated by Asia at 32 per cent, Europe at 20 per cent and Japan at 10 per cent).

The competitors are not named, but one of them is likely to be the Magellan Global Fund, managed by Hamish Douglass, chief executive of Magellan Financial Group. Every one of the top 10 holdings listed in its latest investor report is based in the US. Between them they contribute almost half the fund's assets.
Dublin: Hundreds of thousands of people crammed the streets of the Irish capital on Sunday to mark the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising against British colonial rule.

The two days of commemorations are being billed as the largest cultural event this nation has ever seen.

The legacy of the rebellion, which was crushed by British armed forces in six days of street fighting in central Dublin, are complex and still fiercely debated, but there is no doubting the popular enthusiasm for the event in nation that has had little to cheer about in recent years.
Mayors in south-eastern NSW have welcomed a call for existing councillors to form part of interim governing bodies for newly forged councils, despite fierce opposition from anti-amalgamation groups.

Councillors in shires flagged for mergers have been told to reapply for their jobs, as the NSW government lays the groundwork to terminate existing councils as early as next month and begin amalgamations.

People rally against council amalgamation plans in Sydney last June. Credit:Brendon Thorne

On Thursday all councillors received a letter from the Minister for Local Government, Paul Toole, telling them he was considering interim arrangements for councils until elections are held after September.

He said he was looking at options of a single person acting as administrator of a new merged council, or the continuation in office of some or all of the councillors in the new larger council area.
Internationally acclaimed authors will flock to Brisbane in coming months to celebrate their works and explore ideas that are shaping society as part of Brisbane Powerhouse's 2016 Writers + Ideas Program.

The program is a year-long affair that will see authors from around the world create evenings for Brisbane to remember, the program's producer Jane O'Hara said.

Feminist and social activist Gloria Steinem will headline the Brisbane Powerhouse's 2016 Writers + Ideas Program

"I travelled the world and talked to successful international writer's festivals and worked out what made them work and their cities love them and their audiences want to go to them," she said.

"What I found around the world was an enormous thirst for knowledge and ideas.
Firefighters are battling a blaze at a costume shop in Maroochydore, with large plumes of thick smoke seen from the nearby motorway.

Emergency services were called about 1.10pm to reports of a fire at the back of the shop.

A building has caught fire in Maroochydore Credit:Mackenzie Ravn/Seven News

The Sunshine Coast Daily reports that the fire was in Costumes Galore on Newspaper Place and was discovered by the business's owner, who was checking on the business before reopening on Tuesday after the Easter break.

Police closed the street as owners of nearby businesses rushed to check on their premises.
He will face Mareeba Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

A man has been charged over a housefire in Millaa Milla. Credit:Jessica Shapiro

An 18-year-old man from Beatrice has been charged with one count of arson, one count of wilful damage and one count of possession of a dangerous drug after police tracked him down on Monday.

Police have charged a man over a suspicious housefire south-west of Cairns.

Police are searching for a man in relation to a house fire south-west of Cairns.

Emergency services were called to the fire on Whiteing Road, at Millaa Millaa, about 11.30am and now believe the fire was deliberately lit.

A vehicle in the yard of the property was also set on fire.

Police released an image of a man they believe might be able to assist with their inquiries.

The man is described as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander in appearance, of a proportionate build and with black hair.
Westpac Banking Corp's venture capital fund Reinventure Group has taken a stake in Flare HR, a start-up that has built software that promises to enhance company engagement with employees and disrupt the $9 billion default superannuation market.

Reinventure Group has invested more than $1 million in a recent seed fundraising round by Flare, which has spent a year building a cloud-based platform that will launch in May. The Sydney-based company has a dozen full-time staff working in the fintech hub Stone & Chalk and expects to grow to 30 people over the next six months.

Flare HR co-founders Daniel Cohen, Jan Pacas and Saul Kaplan plan to disrupt default super. Credit:Louie Douvis

Flare's software, which manages the on-boarding of new employees and various human resources functions including performance reviews and internal communications, will be provided free to small-to-medium-sized enterprises. The company will earn a revenue stream from the delivery of financial services and products, such as superannuation, insurance and advice.

It's a model similar to Zenefits, one of the fastest-growing software start-ups in US history, which is valued at around $US4.5 billion after three years of operation.
Victoria's first Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Fiona Richardson has revealed that her father was a violent alcoholic who beat her mother and siblings.

Ms Richardson, who is also the state's Minister for Women, returned to her birth country of Tanzania with her family for an ABC TV Australian Story program about her violent family history. The program was aired just a day before the Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence hands down its findings.

Wiping away tears, Ms Richardson described her now-deceased father, Ernest 'Richie' Richardson, as a charismatic figure with "oodles of charm", who would become a "very different man" when he was drunk.
The Victorian firefighters' union has launched defamation action against the Herald Sun over a front-page story claiming members were ordered not to work extra shifts to help fight bushfires during a day of extreme fire danger.

United Firefighters Union Victoria secretary Peter Marshall filed a writ and statement of claim against the newspaper and state politics editor James Campbell in the Supreme Court earlier this month.

United Firefighters Union Victorian secretary Peter Marshall is suing the Herald Sun for defamation. Credit:Angela Wylie

Mr Marshall launched the proceedings over a story published on the front page of the Herald Sun on December 19 under the headline "Meltdown", as well as an online version of the story and subsequent editorial.

The legal battle comes amid a long and increasingly bitter pay dispute between the union and the state government, who the union believes is the source for Mr Campbell's story.
The Flemington Racecourse rail line will not be used for anything other than race days for the foreseeable future, the Andrews government says. Even if the Victoria Racing Club gets its way and is allowed to build three residential towers close by.

If the racecourse rail line was used for daily commuter services  an idea floated by the VRC as part of its massive residential development  it would badly impact Craigieburn and Upfield line commuters, Public Transport Victoria says.

Peter Tyrell is one of several residents in the area opposed to the Victoria Racing Club's apartments plan for Flemington Racecourse. Credit:Penny Stephens

To justify building three apartment towers next to the racecourse, the VRC floated putting into permanent service Flemington Racecourse railway station  now used only for events like the Melbourne Cup.

But Public Transport Victoria says that while running trains "may appear beneficial", it would have "a number of operational and infrastructure issues".
A man has been arrested over the alleged sexual abuse of two 10-year-old boys at a medical practice in Melbourne's east nearly 30 years ago.

The 64-year-old Donvale man was arrested and questioned by detectives with the Knox Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team, but was later released pending further inquiries.

The incidents allegedly occurred at a Croydon clinic between 1987 and 1990, and involved two boys aged 10 at the time.

The investigation is ongoing.

Police are encouraging any other victims to come forward.
Police have seized a car suspected to have been involved in a hit and run of a cyclist in Ballarat, which left a young father fighting for his life.

Christian Ashby, 36, was riding at Lake Wendouree near the Ballarat city centre just after 6am on Good Friday when a silver Mitsubishi Lancer veered onto the wrong side of Wendouree Parade and hit him.

Christian Ashby, 36, was hit while riding his bike. Credit:Ballarat Courier

Mr Ashby was flown to the Royal Melbourne Hospital with severe leg and head injuries. He remains in hospital in a serious condition.

On Monday, police seized a car from a Delacombe property believed to be linked to the hit and run. It has been taken for forensic testing, as police continue to search for the driver.
A 34-year-old woman has been charged with burgling a house, then setting it on fire in Kingsley on Sunday evening.

Police will allege that between 6.15pm and 6.30pm, the woman smashed a window to get into the Wallangarra Court home, poured an accelerant on to furniture and set it alight before fleeing on foot with property from inside.

It took firefighters until midnight to extinguish the fire, which caused extensive damage. Credit:Nine News

Police and firefighters attended around 6.40pm, by which time the fire had already reached the roof space. It took until around midnight to extinguish it, by which time it had done about $700,000 in damage.

A car parked at the home was also damaged.
Yonaguni: Japan has switched on a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it a permanent intelligence-gathering post close to Taiwan and a group of islands disputed by China, a move bound to rile Beijing.

The new Japanese Self Defence Force (JSDF) base on the island of Yonaguni is at the western extreme of a string of Japanese islands in the East China Sea, 150 kilometres south of the disputed islands known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China.

A diver explores the formation known as the Yonaguni Monument. Credit:Vincent Lou/Commons

China has raised concerns with its neighbours and in the West with its assertive claim to most of the South China Sea where the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei have overlapping claims. Japan has long been mired in a territorial dispute with China over the East China Sea islands.
Havana: Fidel Castro has responded to President Barack Obama's historic trip to Cuba with a long, bristling letter recounting the history of US aggression against Cuba, writing that "we don't need the empire to give us any presents".

The 1500-word letter in state media titled "Brother Obama" was Castro's first response to the president's three-day visit last week, in which the US president said he had come to bury the two countries' history of Cold War hostility.

Obama did not meet with the 89-year-old Fidel Castro on the trip but met several times with his 84-year-old brother Raul Castro, the current Cuban president.

Obama's visit was intended to build irreversible momentum behind his opening with Cuba and to convince the Cuban people and the Cuban government that a half-century of US attempts to overthrow the Communist government had ended, allowing Cuban to reform its economy and political system without the threat of US interference.
Washington: As North Korea rattles its nuclear sabre, threatening to bomb the US at "any moment", a nerve-jangling question hangs in the air: If Pyongyang did launch a nuclear-armed missile at an American city, could the Pentagon's missile defences overcome their spotty test record and shoot it down beyond US shores?

America has never faced such a real-life crisis, and although officials say they are confident the defences would work as advertised, the Pentagon acknowledges potential gaps that North Korea or others might be able to exploit, some day if not immediately.

One possible vulnerability involves a foe's "countermeasures" or decoys carried aboard long-range offensive missiles to fool a US interceptor missile into hitting the wrong target.
Islamabad: The death toll in a devastating suicide attack on picnicking families in the city of Lahore has risen to 72, with another 230 injured, local media reports have said, as Pakistani authorities vowed to hunt down the Islamist militant bombers who claimed they specifically targeted Christians on Easter Sunday.

Security forces arrested a "number of terrorist suspects and facilitators" in at least five raids in cities across Punjab province, where Lahore is located, according to an army spokesman. The spokesman, General Asim Bajwa, said "a huge cache of arms and ammunition" was recovered in the operations, but did not say where the weapons stockpile was found.

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif travelled to Lahore - in the eastern province of Punjab, one of his political strongholds - to visit the wounded in one of the city's many hospitals, the premier's office said.
Military officials have cast doubt on the soldier's claim that he believed the Palestinian was carrying explosives. Mourners at the funeral of 21-year-old Palestinian Ramzi al-Kasrawi. Credit:AP On Sunday night, B'Tselem released a second video it says shows the same soldier at the scene shaking hands with Baruch Marzel, a well-known ultra-nationalist settler leader, after the shooting. Lieutenant-Colonel Peter Lerner, a military spokesman, said a preliminary investigation found the soldier arrived on the scene some six minutes after the initial incident, and that the second shooting occurred several minutes after that. Israeli soldiers stand near the body of a Palestinian who was shot and killed by a soldier last week while laying wounded on the ground. Credit:AP

"There was no apparent threat from the Palestinian that was incapacitated," Colonel Lerner said. He said that commanders had already reported the shooting to their superiors before the video emerged. "There was already a military police investigation. We already knew the behaviour was not in line with the code of conduct and ethics," he said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the weekly cabinet meeting at his office in Jerusalem on Sunday, where he defended the military. Credit:AP The Israeli media, citing military officials, quoted the soldier as saying the Palestinian "deserved to die". Colonel Lerner said three officers at the scene were reprimanded for not giving medical attention to the wounded Palestinian, as is required under military policy.

The sister of the soldier, who was not identified, accused the military of publicly convicting her brother, and several right-wing MPs came to his defence, accusing detractors of abandoning him before he was given a fair hearing. "Have we lost our minds? We're at war. War against vicious terrorism," said Israeli Education Minister Naftali Bennett, leader of the religious-nationalist Jewish Home party. He said the shooting should be investigated, but criticised politicians and the media for rushing to condemn the soldier. Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beitenu, asked to meet the soldier in prison and accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of looking for the support of "bleeding hearts". Over the weekend, hundreds of people protested in support of the soldier outside the prison, and posters surfaced denouncing his critics, including Israel's military chief and defence minister. Israel Defence Forces chief of staff Gadi Eisenkot was quoted in February telling an Israeli high school student that "[the] IDF cannot speak in slogans, such as 'if someone comes to kill you, arise to kill them first' ... I don't want a soldier to empty a magazine on a girl [armed] with scissors".

The student had complained that IDF rules of engagement were putting Israeli soldiers' lives at risk. In a Facebook post, Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon accused unnamed politicians of "a campaign of incitement" against the military leadership. "The sane elements in Israel, on the right and the left, must unite against this evil wind and stop it," he said. Sima Kadmon, a commentator for the Yediot Ahronot daily, criticised the social media posts defending the soldier, and also lashed out at the apparent apathy shown by soldiers in the video after the Palestinian was shot. But she said "the most troubling thing is the politicians who rushed to the defence of the shooter, even though top military officials, who are far more familiar with the circumstances of the incident and the findings of the inquiry, have called this for what it is: murder". Addressing his Cabinet on Sunday, Mr Netanyahu said the shooting was not reflective of the military's conduct and rejected criticism of the armed forces' morals as "outrageous and unacceptable".

But he also defended the military against its right-wing critics. "We must all support the IDF chief of staff, the IDF and our soldiers, who safeguard our security," he said. The shooting came amid a six-month wave of Palestinian stabbings, shootings and car-ramming attacks that has killed 28 Israelis and two Americans. Over the same time, at least 188 Palestinians have died by Israeli fire. Israel says most were attackers, and the rest died in clashes with Israeli security forces. Israel blames the attacks on incitement by Palestinian leaders and social media. Palestinians say the violence stems from frustration at nearly five decades of Israeli military occupation in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The Palestinians have also accused Israel of using excessive force and killing assailants who have already been stopped or wounded. A handful of amateur videos supporting the Palestinian claims have emerged in recent months, but Thursday's killing of Palestinian Abdel-Fattah al-Sharif was perhaps the clearest so far. "The way al-Sharif was killed is very common, but this time we had the camera to film the extra-judicial killing," said Jamal Zakout, director of al-Ard, a Palestinian think tank in the West Bank town of Ramallah. He said the Palestinians could use the killing as a "good example" in their appeal for "international protection" from Israel.
Washington: Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders has gone on the offensive against rival Hillary Clinton's reliance on wealthy donors to fund her campaign.

He slammed as obscene a fundraising dinner being hosted next month by actor George Clooney and his wife Amal, where supporters will have to donate at least $US33,400 ($44,200) to attend, or $US353,400 ($468,400), nearly seven times the US annual median income, if they want "premium" seating.

"It is obscene that secretary Clinton keeps going to big money people to fund her campaign," Senator Sanders told CNN. "Our events, we charge $US15 or $US50 for people to come."

"So, it's not a criticism of Clooney. It's a criticism of a corrupt finance system.
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

The head of lending at Yellow Brick Road (YBR) has backed a recent report that shows ANZ is reducing its branch presence while bolstering its broker channel, saying it is another signal that brokers are the future of the mortgage industry.YBR CEO of lending, Tim Brown says the groups strategic vision to dramatically increase broker numbers is being reinforced by the actions of the big four bank and by the statistics around popularity of brokers with property purchasers. The J.P. Morgan Australian Mortgage Industry Report released last week revealed that ANZ has been steadily reducing its branch presence since 2011, in favour of increasing its broker usage  a trend which J.P. Morgan banking analyst Scott Manning told Australian Broker will continue across the banking landscape over the next five years.The report also highlighted that the broker channel may be perfectly placed to capture greater market share with 75% of refinancers expected to use brokers.If we look to trends overseas, a move towards utilising brokers for a larger percentage of lending has already been happening for some time. In the UK, 76% of loans are done through a broker and 87% of the actual loans are through mutuals, building societies or regional banks, Brown said.That same trend is now beginning here as banks realise old ways of operating arent working.Brown says there is no doubt that the traditional bank structure plays into the hands of intermediaries.In this day and age, people want to have access to service providers outside the typical 9-5 business day. Our brokers at Yellow Brick Road and Vow Financial dont work limited business hours, they are driven to take care of the customers desire for convenience and that means being flexible with the time and place that suits the customers needs, he said.Brokers also have a small business mentality that banks just cant compete with. They are integrated into their communities in a way banks can only pretend to be. They work harder because that way they build a reputation and make more money. Running the banks capped income model is never going to be as popular with consumers long term as the alternative of a broker who is incentivised to give better service, work longer hours, bring more customers in and provide customer-centric service.Last year, the Deloitte-run industry roundtable found that more than 51% of mortgages written are going through a broker and also predicted further growth, with expectations of an increase to 60%.In their recent strategy update, YBR said it had a goal of growing to 300 branded branches and 1,000 broker groups by 2020.Hearing that one of the big four is forgoing its branch presence in favour of a greater emphasis on the third-party broker channel reinforces the increasing consumer popularity and effectiveness of brokers, Brown said.
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Call it pier pressure.

The developer behind two widely hated housing high-rises planned for the Pier 6 end of Brooklyn Bridge Park is threatening that its funding  and, in turn, the parks coffers  could dry up if state officials dont approve the project after months of stalling amidst community opposition.

We have reached a critical juncture, said Ral Companies chief Robert Levine in a recent letter to the states quasi-governmental development arm the Empire State Development Corporation. Our financial partners have informed me that unless substantial progress  is achieved by April 30, 2016, financing for the project will be jeopardized.

The agency was supposed to vote on the two towers, containing more than 300 units and a 75-seat pre-school  which park hochos claim are needed to fund the sprawling green space  after a lengthy public hearing spree wrapped up in August.

But it put the whole thing on ice indefinitely after local residents and pols came out ferociously against the plan  with critics arguing that big buildings will stick out like a sore thumb, add too many new kids to local schools, and likely flood next time a superstorm hits.

Some also believe the park is fudging its finances, and already has plenty of cash to stay afloat thanks to the condominiums, hotel, marina, and shops already in the works there.

The Pier 6 project wouldnt have needed the states okay, except Mayor DeBlasio insisted on shoehorning 117 below-market-rate units into the buildings, and activists successfully argued the changes required a review.

Now Levine says his backers are questioning whether the government officials can really get it up after all, and theyre getting impatient.

Our financial partners have come to doubt the city and states ability to execute the project, he wrote.

A spokesman for the developer later backpedaled on the letters suggestion that the entire plan is in peril, however  the backers will just have to restructure or it will find new ones, he said.

But DeBlasio says he is raring to go now  he says the state agency should just forge ahead regardless to sure-up the cash for the parks kitty and the so-called affordable housing, which would contribute to the 80,000 new below-market units he has pledged to create by 2023.

Dropping the ball on this project would result in forfeited park funding for one of the citys treasured open spaces and a squandered opportunity for sorely needed affordable housing and pre-K space, said City Hall spokesman Austin Finan. The ESD should see that the project is moved forward.

But a rep for Empire State Development said it remains hopeful the community and developer will reach a resolution soon, and will stand ready to assist until then.
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.
New naloxone training program for pharmacists takes aim at opioid epidemic

The new online program will train community pharmacists on dispensing naloxone  an antidote for opioid overdose  without a prescription to individuals at risk for opioid abuse, or their friends and families. Photo: Douglas Levere

UB has partnered with the Erie County Department of Health and the Harm Reduction Coalition to train pharmacists on dispensing naloxone

Gale Burstein, MD, MPH, Erie County Health Commissioner and UB clinical professor of pediatrics in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

The number of opioid related deaths in Erie County is the highest we have ever experienced and continues to grow. 

BUFFALO, N.Y.  To fight the opioid epidemic ravaging Western New York, the University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SPPS) joined forces with the Erie County Department of Health and the Harm Reduction Coalition to create a naloxone dispensing education program.

The new online program will train community pharmacists on dispensing naloxone  an antidote for opioid overdose  without a prescription to individuals at risk for opioid abuse, or their friends and families.

The free course, Dispensing naloxone via a non-patient specific prescription: the role of the community pharmacist, became available to pharmacists practicing in New York on March 25, on the SPPS Office of Continuing Pharmacy Education website, pharmacy.buffalo.edu/naloxone-training.

This is a public health crisis, says Gale Burstein, MD, MPH, Erie County Health Commissioner and clinical professor of pediatrics in the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at UB.

The number of opioid related deaths in Erie County is the highest we have ever experienced and continues to grow. First responders report resuscitating overdose victims in Erie County at an alarming rate.

Naloxone is widely carried by emergency medical professionals, such as police officers and paramedics. However, the new program aims to place the medication into the hands of people at risk for opioid overdose or those closest to them.

The training helps pharmacists comply with the requirements to dispense standing orders of naloxone to the public. These orders are issued by the Harm Reduction Coalition, a national advocacy group that promotes the health of people and communities affected by drug use, and, at a later date, the Erie County Department of Health.

This program is a mechanism for getting the antidote out to reduce the number of deaths, says Edward Bednarczyk, PharmD, chair of the SPPS Department of Pharmacy Practice.

Rather than distributing the medication through police stations, schools and hospitals, pharmacies provide the community with an instant, ready-made network for distributing medicine.

Prescription opioids  which include painkillers  are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the nation. These drugs are abused by 1.9 million Americans and cause nearly two deaths every hour from overdose or respiratory depression.

Nearly 75 percent of patients with opioid addiction switch to heroin as a cheaper alternative, according to data from the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

The online course includes a video presentation, and pre- and post-test questions. Pharmacists who complete the training will receive 1.5 hours of continuing education credit toward their state licensure.

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) and is supported by the New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute.

The video presentation is led by Burstein, Sharon Stancliff, MD, medical director of the Harm Reduction Coalition, and Denise Swiatek, PharmD, SPPS adjunct assistant professor and an academic educator of the New York State Department of Health Medicaid Prescriber Education Program.
5 changes to you, your seafood and the Shore from warming Atlantic

The warming Atlantic is beginning to cause a unique set of changes for fishermen, albeit subtly. They have to adjust to catch new kinds of sea life.
DSK Motowheels, which opened its DSK Benelli showroom in Chennai a year ago, has delivered its 300th superbike and has total bookings of over 400 units. According to the company, this is the shortest time ever, wherein a superbike brand has achieved such a milestone in Chennai. DSK Benelli is celebrating this achievement by organising a success ride with the owners of its superbikes. The brand also celebrated its 500th bike delivery in Bengaluru recently. The two milestones further strengthen the companys market leadership in southern India. DSK Benelli has received a truly phenomenal response in Chennai, said Shirish Kulkarni, chairman, DSK Motorwheels. There is a vibrant superbiking culture in the city, and its people have embraced DSK Benelli superbikes with great enthusiasm. The DSK-Benelli showroom in Chennai, under the dealership of Power Super Bikes, showcases the entire range of DSK Benelli superbikes available in India including the TNT 25  single cylinder 250cc engine; TNT 300  In-line two cylinder 300cc engine; TNT 600i  In-line four cylinder 600cc engine; TNT 600 GT  In-line four cylinder 600cc engine; TNT 899  In-line, three cylinder 898cc engine; and TNT R  In-line, three cylinder 1131cc engine. The state-of-the-art showroom is located in a plush locale at Anna Salai, near Gemini flyover. Established in 2012, DSK Motowheels, a part of the DSK Group (a diversified business group with a turnover of over Rs. 5,000 crores) forayed into the growing automobile sector by entering the niche segment of powerful and aspirational bikes. With a CKD plant in Maharashtra, the brand enjoys the status of having the strongest and most well entrenched superbike network in India.

Source : BS Motoring
Mercedes-Benz India, which is aggressively expanding its presence in the country, opened a facility in Vijayawada on Monday. The Mahavir Motors Vijayawada outlet is spread over 20,000 sq ft and has four service bays which can service up to 90 cars a month. Mercedes-Benz now has 83 outlets across 40 cities in India and another 10 are expected to be opened by the end of the year. The German luxury carmaker has said it will be launching 12 new models in India this year. Last week, it launched the C-Class 250d. The Mercedes-Benz S400 is scheduled to be launched shortly. Vijayawada is an established industrial city and is fast developing into an emerging market with a strong growth potential for luxury cars, said Roland Folger, managing director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India. The increasing customer base for Mercedes-Benz in Vijayawada reiterates our confidence in the market, resulting in the creation of a world-class luxury dealership like Mahavir Motors. According to Yashwant Jhabakh, group chairman, Mahavir Motors, this is the companys second Mercedes dealership and the first 3S luxury car dealership in Vijayawada. With the inauguration of this 3S facility, we further fortify our market presence in Andhra Pradesh and we will continue our efforts to better our achievements and reach out to a newer customer base.

Source : BS Motoring
Zoomcar, the Bengaluru-based car rental firm, has launched what it claims is Indias first autorickshaw rental service. Greg Moran, co-founder and CEO, Zoomcar, said the company had launched a pilot scheme renting out autorickshaws in Bengaluru and a few other cities. The company hopes the service will become popular in congested cities as clients would be able to negotiate busy roads while driving an autorickshaw. Zoom Auto, as it has been branded, will be available at a rate of Rs10 per hour. Zoomcar offers car rental service in Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai and Chandigarh. The self-drive car rental service enables clients to rent vehicles by the hour, day, week or month. The company offers hatchbacks at Rs60 to Rs80 an hour (from Mondays to Thursdays) and Rs80 to Rs140 an hour (Fridays to Sundays and peak season). It also offers sedans at prices ranging from Rs110 to Rs190 an hour, SUVs at Rs110 to Rs250 an hour and luxury cars from Rs220 to Rs430 an hour.

Source : BS Motoring
India has become the first country in Asia to export two fully-built inter-city luxury buses to Europe, marking a dramatic shift in its manufacturing capabilities. Swedish auto major Volvo, which started operations in India through the import of a luxury bus from Hong Kong back in 2000, executed the shipment. Its Bengaluru-based plant is gearing up to undertake more of such orders, which is notable because its parent company has a plant in China, too.

Following in Volvos footsteps is rival company Volkswagen-owned Scania, which has also set up a manufacturing facility in Karnataka and is working towards its goal of exporting fully-built buses to Europe. Earth mover JCB is not too far behind. Although headquartered in the UK, its India subsidiary has just started exports to Russia.

These companies, which hail from Europe, already have their mother plants based out of that region. However, given Indias strengths in low-cost manufacturing and the governments push towards Make in India, companies are now actively looking at serving these markets from India.

Stefan Palskog, president of Scania India, said, From a logistical point of view, there are a lot of countries that are closer to India than Sweden. The logistic cost of a completely-built product is important. In the long run, we will be able to export buses made in Bengaluru to Europe as well.



While passenger car makers such as Suzuki and Hyundai have been exporting small cars to Europe from India, heavy-duty commercial vehicle manufacturers have just started to warm up to this idea turning India into a manufacturing hub for European exports. Vipin Sondhi, managing director and chief executive of JCB India, said, We have started with Russia where temperatures are -25 degree centigrade. So, we will go step-by-step there. We are exporting components to the UK from Pune, where they are assembled to be shipped to other parts of the world and we are exporting components to the US.



Likewise, JCB Daimler India Commercial Vehicle (DICV) has ramped up parts supplies from India as it now reaches across the globe including Europe and the US. Around four million parts have been exported by DICV to other global Daimler entities worldwide.

Erich Nesselhauf, managing director and chief executive of DICV, said, We export to 20 countries from West Asia, South East Asia and Africa. This will go up to 40 countries soon.



Developed markets such Europe and the US have very stringent quality and emission requirements, which, according to companies, cannot be compromised. However, Indian companies have not been able to meet these requirements.

KTM branded bikes made in Pune by Indias third largest bike manufacturer Bajaj Auto have been well received in Germany, France, Italy and Spain. More than half of KTMs production in India gets exported as of date with a substantial chunk being sold in Europe and the US.

Bajaj Auto owns nearly half of KTM, which specialises street and off-road bikes. Serving the developed markets from India comes at a time when the country has fallen short of its announced targets under the 10-year Automotive Mission Plan 2006-16.

Sluggish macro economic factors during the past three years have impacted the pace of growth, resulting in under-achievement of some of the targets. However, some of the targets such as creation of employment for 25 million and investments to the tune of Rs 1.5 lakh crore from auto and component manufacturers, have been achieved.
Even while apparel exports and domestic markets are expected to see subdued growth, the denim segment is likely to grow at a faster rate.

According to industry experts, the denim industry is growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13-15% in a year when overall apparel growth rate is being pegged at a lackadaisical 3-5% this fiscal, down from 12-15% for the past couple of years.

Denim makes up 35% of total textile exports from India and is expected to rise to 45% of total exports by 2020; production is also expected to increase to 1.5 billion metres by 2020.

Meanwhile, the Indian denim industry is gradually looking to increase its share of exports, which currently lags behind at 35% compared to a domestic market of 65% of total production. "Denim is witnessing one of the fastest growth rates as an apparel fabric segment, up by 500 million metres from 700 million metres in 2010 to 1.2 billion in 2015. Yet, there is a gap of another 300 million metres in India if the denim industry needs to tap its full export potential," says P R Roy, chairman of Diagonal Consulting (India). Read more from our special coverage on "DENIM JEANS" Close to 80% denim buying decisions influenced by quality: IMRB As an apparel segment, denim's growth has been more in the domestic market than in the exports.

While India has been one of the major global suppliers of denim fabrics, the domestic market still falls behind other competing nations in terms of denim apparel such as jeans.

Also, while most of the global brands outsource denim apparel work to Indian players, much of it is meant for the domestic market and not for exports.

"While the total denim capacity in the country is about 1.2 billion metres per annum, the utilisation is at around 900 million metres per annum, of which 250 million metres would be exports. However, denim apparel exports would roughly form around 50-60 million," says Prashant Agarwal, joint managing director of Wazir Advisors, a retail and management consulting firm.

Globally, the market is projected to grow at 8%, up from $55 billion in 2015 to $59 billion in 2021. While the projected growth rate in Asia including India is around 12%, that for Latin America, North America and Europe is expected to be around 15%, 10% and 4%, respectively in next six years.
The issue of licensing is not relevant as 344 fixed drug combinations (FDCs) have been banned on the topic of safety and efficacy, the government told the Delhi High Court on Monday.

The government gave this argument after pharmaceutical firms told the court that they have all the required licences to manufacture and sell these drugs. The court has decided to continue the stay on the drug ban as the hearings will continue on Tuesday.

The government had on March 10 banned these combination drugs as it found no therapeutic rationale in those FDCs. Besides, many of these FDCs were found to be posing health hazard for patients. Following the ban, around 100 drug makers moved the Delhi High Court.

It is wrong to even go into the question of licensing. Even the required licences have not been obtained by the drug companies, the government counsel said in the court on Monday. He said the central government has only given no-objection certificates (NOCs) to a few companies. However, no proper licences have been obtained by the companies which are selling these absurd combinations in the market.



The pharmaceutical companies, in their defence, told the court that the governments action was ill-informed as they were not given a chance to present their side properly.

The companies most affected by the ban include Pfizer, Abbott and Macleods Pharma.

While only six brands of Pfizer have been banned, their sales were as much as Rs 424 crore between February 2015 and February 2016. Abbott saw 36 of its brands banned, which had sales of Rs 400 crore in the same period. Similarly, 30 brands by Macleods Pharma, with annual sales of Rs 400 crore, have been banned.
It is not only Uber, the American taxi-hailing app, that is going all guns blazing in India with massive investment plans. Its biggest competitor, Bengaluru-based Ola, as well as e-commerce entities Flipkart and Amazon, are all planning to pump in big money to stay ahead, even in a scenario when investors are not as ready as earlier in opening their purse-strings.

Uber India has readied itself for another $500 million (Rs 3,300 crore) investment in the next three months, reports suggest. The app service had only nine months earlier committed $1 billion (Rs 6,600 crore) in India. Uber could not be reached for a comment.

For foreign giants such as Amazon, Uber and Alibaba, this country is a big market they all want to capture. Experts believe this is a trend which will continue, as a global economic slowdown will push a chunk of new investments towards India.

We can clearly see a slowdown in overseas markets, while India is still managing annual growth of seven to eight per cent. So, companies such as Uber, Amazon and Alibaba want to bet big on India. While Amazon was not able to make a dent in China and Alibaba in Europe, they do not want to lose out on India. We will see this trend through the year, says Amarjeet Singh, partner  tax, KPMG in India.

Ola, rival of Uber in the same segment, is on track to invest a chunk of its $1.3 billion (Rs 8,650 crore) capital raised so far. The firm recently announced it would invest Rs 200 crore in the Delhi-National Capital Region area over the next six months, towards innovative green fuel technology, leasing of CNG cars and strengthening the system to catalyse greater CNG adoption in the region, Rahul Maroli, its vice-president for strategic supply initiatives had said.

According to sources, Ola will further make strategic investments in all metro cities, as well as in Tier-II and Tier-III towns. The company plans to add at least another 550,000 vehicles by the end of this year, said one. Ola has at least 350,000 cabs and 80,000 auto rickshaws on its platform across 102 cities in the country.

American e-commerce major Amazon had said in October 2014 it was investing $2 billion (Rs 13,200 crore) in India. Later, its executives said the group had an open chequebook for the market. In February, it bought Noida-based payments services provider Emvantage, its first acquisition. This is aimed to help Amazon accelerate the development of payment solutions for customers.

As for Alibaba, the Chinese e-commerce giant, it already has a foothold in Indian e-commerce through its investments. The group is majority stakeholder in One97Communications, owner of mobile payments giant Paytm. Also, online marketplace major Snapdeal raised $500 million (Rs 3,300 crore) from a group of entities last year which included Alibaba.

The Chinese company now plans to directly enter India.

We plan to enter the e-commerce business in India in 2016, recently said J Michael Evans, group president. We have been exploring very carefully the opportunity in this country, which we think is very exciting against the backdrop of (the) Digital India (programme of the government).



Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart had, in March, infused Rs 338 crore into its online fashion store, Myntra, documents filed with the registrar of companies stated. Flipkart has so far raised $3 billion (nearly Rs 20,000 crore).
The Maharashtra government has roped in Deloitte to prepare a report on introducing in Greater Mumbai for consumers with monthly consumption of up to 500 units. The state government will soon issue a letter appointing Deloitte and instructing it to give an interim report by Thursday and final by July.

Tata Power, Reliance Infra, BrihanMumbai Electric Supply & Transport and MahaVitaran distribute power in the metropolis and the per-unit tariff for 0-500 units ranges between Rs 2.05 and Rs 11.63.

The ruling and opposition parties support the idea of uniform tariff with an eye on election to the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation in February 2017.

State energy minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule told Business Standard, The tariff charged by various utilities in Greater Mumbai is different. It is the governments attempt to introduce in the city. Meetings with the distribution utilities were already held and they were asked to give their inputs on the implementation of . The government would decide upon getting Deloittes report and inputs from the utilities.

An official in the state energy department said Tata Powers revised tariff with effect from June 1, 2015 for 0-100 units is Rs 2.05; Rs 4.21 for 101-300 units; and Rs 8.42 for 301-500 units. Tata Power has a consumer base of around 600,000.

The tariff for Reliance Infrastructure with a consumer base of three million is Rs 4.79 for 0-100 units; Rs 6.54 for 101-300 units; and Rs 8.28 for 301-500 units.

BEST with a consumer base of one million, charges Rs 4.12 for 0-100 units, Rs 8.68 for 101-300 units; and Rs 11.63 for 301-500 units.

State-run Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company (MahaVitaran), which distributes power in eastern suburbs, charges Rs 3.76 for 0-11 units; Rs 7.21 for 101-300 units; and Rs 9.95 for 301-500 units.

The demand for uniform power tariff in Greater Mumbai has been revived for the second time after the Congress-Nationalist Congress Party government initiated the move in 2010-12 following a PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report.

However, the government failed to implement it citing the order delivered by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) in June 2008. The order said the uniform power tariff was not feasible across different licensees owing to inherent differences such as revenue requirement, consumer mix, consumption mix, and low tension-high tension ratio.

MERC in a letter to the state government on July 11, 2011 said, The Commission is of the view that the government support in the form of subsidy under Section 65 of the Electricity Act, 2003 is the only method to implement uniform tariff in Mumbai.



PwC in its report had said uniformity could be attained only through measures for better efficiency and government intervention. However, government interventions need to be restricted to interim support, as subsequently, efficiency and cost-competitiveness of the utilities need to take over. There has to be support from the state government either in conjunction with an inter-utility transfer or independent of it.
The stock of the Hyderabad-based Natco Pharma fell 12.6 per cent on Monday after the company informed stock exchanges that two of its plants had received observations from the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA).

The share price fell by Rs 59.05 to close at Rs 409.30 on the Bombay Stock Exchange even though the company termed the observations as minor. Recent instances of such FDA observations have led to Dr Reddys and a few other companies receiving warning letters from the agency. The company has sent compliance reports on these observations and believes there will be no adverse impact on its pipeline products from these facilities, Natco Pharma said in a statement. According to the company, the FDA had inspected its Chennai and Kothur facilities in February and March, respectively.

A strong oncology player with a portfolio of 26 drugs, Natco Pharma came into the limelight in April 2012 for receiving Indias first compulsory licence for Bayers cancer drug Nexavar.

A company executive said the observations by the FDA were minor and they hoped to close the issue within four months. Natco Pharma with seven plants in the country had Rs s840 crore revenue in the last financial year, the majority of it from the domestic market while formulations exports constituted 24 per cent of total income.

Many of the companys filings in the US for pipeline products come from the two facilities that received the FDA observations, according to sources. Natco Pharma has filed 38 niche abbreviated new drug applications (ANDA) that have a combined market value of $15 billion in the US.

Of these, the approved drugs have a market value $2.2 billion, according to company data.

FDA inspectors list their observations if conditions or practices indicate a drug may be in violation of regulatory requirements. Responses along with an effective plan of action to rectify the gaps must be sent by drug companies after receiving such observations.
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), the countrys largest petroleum explorer, on Monday announced a Rs 34,012 crore investment to bring into production the Krishna-Godavari basin oil and gas field by 2020.

The investment will be made over four years to bring Cluster 2A and 2B into production. At its peak in 2023, the field will contribute 3.5 million tonnes (mt) of oil, around 15 per cent of the total oil production envisaged by then, ONGC Chairman D K Sarraf said after a board meeting.

Also, gas production at its peak will be five billion cubic metres, or 25 per cent of total output, he added.

ONGC produced 18 mt of crude oil in 2014-15, less than a half of Indias total crude oil output of 38 mt. The companys upcoming KG-DWN-98/2 block, popularly known as KG-D5, is divided into three vertical clusters. The top cluster, Cluster 1, is embroiled in a controversy with ONGC accusing migration of gas from the field to the adjoining fields of Reliance Industries.

We have not taken any investment decision for Cluster 1 where we apprehend gas migration, Sarraf said.

Mondays decision covers the field development plan for two areas, 2A and 2B, in Cluster 2. The areas will produce 23.5 mt of oil and 50.7 billion cubic metres of gas over the life of the field.

Sarraf said the company was comfortably placed to fund the capital expenditure through internal resources. But a decision will be taken at the appropriate time. It may involve tapping the market for loans, he added.

The government had last month announced reforms to turn Indias hydrocarbon sector around. The decisions included allowing companies pricing freedom to make energy from difficult fields viable.

We will be able to achieve the threshold rate of return for this project. We now expect the management committee to meet very soon to approve the field development plan, Sarraf said.

The plan will need to be approved by the management committee, an oversight mechanism for oil and gas blocks auctioned under the New Exploration and Licensing Policy.

Cluster 2A has in-place reserves of 94.26 mt of crude oil and 21.7 billion cubic metres of gas while Cluster 2B has in-place reserves of 51.9 billion cubic metres of gas. Peak production from Cluster 2A is estimated at 77,305 barrel per day and 3.81 million standard cubic meters of gas per day through 15 producer wells. Peak production from Cluster 2B is estimated at 12.75 million standard cubic metres of gas per day from eight wells.

Cluster 2 covers 10 discoveries in all. ONGC is yet to notify declaration of commerciality for Cluster 3 with the directorate general of hydrocarbons. The project includes setting up a gas process platform, a floating production, storage and offloading unit for evacuation of oil and gas from the cluster apart from a network of 430 km sub-sea pipelines. The company plans to produce gas from the field by June 2019 and oil production will commence by March 2020.

THE PLAN
Ahmedabad-based pharma major Cadila Healthcare has acquired Actibile, a gastroenterology brand from Kothari Group company Albert David for an undisclosed sum. The deal will be financed through internal accruals.

The company today said in a statement that Zydus Healthcare Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cadila Healthcare Limited has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 'Actibile' from Albert David Limited (ADL).

The brand falls in the gastroenterology segment and is used for dissolving gall bladder stones.

Speaking on the development, chairman and managing director of Zydus Group, Pankaj R Patel said, "The gastrointestinal segment has been one of our core focus segments and we have been working with the medical fraternity to serve patient needs better.

I believe that this acquisition will strengthen our portfolio of brands and leverage our equity in this key segment."

Albert David Limited, a Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) listed company, is the pharmaceutical venture of the Rs 2,000 crore Kothari Group, a Kolkata head-quartered industrial group. Kothari Group has a significant presence in pharmaceuticals, machine tools, tea plantations and healthcare.

Albert David Limited is involved in manufacturing and marketing of branded formulations in India and abroad and also has operations in medical disposables.

Earlier this year, Zydus had acquired select brands and the Haridwar manufacturing unit of Zoetis, which was spun off Pfizer in 2013, for an undisclosed sum.

With an eye on the growing animal health market in India and globally, Ahmedabad-based integrated pharmaceutical player felt that the acquisition will help Zydus expand its animal health business in India and gain access to manufacturing operations which have also been catering to global markets. As a result of the acquisition, Zydus gained access to a wide range of nutrition as well as therapeutic products which have strong brand equity and a combined turnover of Rs 171 crore.

Cadila Healthcare's shares ended at Rs 318 per share on the BSE, down 0.7 per cent.
A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court on Monday convicted Jharkhand Ispat Pvt Ltd (JIPL) and its two directors - R S Rungta and R C Rungta - in a case pertaining to irregularities in allotment of a coal block by the state to the company.

Judge Bharat Parashar held the company and its two directors guilty of the offences under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 420 (cheating) of Indian Penal Code. The court fixed March 31 for hearing arguments on the quantum of sentence for the accused.

This is the first coal block allocation scam case in which the special court, which was set up to exclusively deal with coal scams, has delivered its judgment. After a Comptroller and Auditor General report in 2012 alleged Rs 1.86 lakh crore windfall gain to companies, the CBI had started probe against allotment of coal blocks through the screening committee route.

Monday's order came in a case pertaining to irregularities in allocation of North Dhadu coal block, by the 27th and 30th screening committees jointly, to JIPL and three other firms - Electrosteel Castings Ltd, Adhunik Alloys & Power Ltd and Pawanjay Steel & Power Ltd.

JIPL runs a steel plant at Ramgarh in Jharkhand. R S Rungta had last year moved an application before a special court seeking to summon former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and former Minister of State for Coal Dasari Narayana Rao as witnesses in his defence in the case. Singh was also the Cabinet minister for coal at the time of allocation of mine. The court, however, rejected the plea.

The court had on November 21 concluded recording of statements of accused in the case.

JIPL and the Rungtas were earlier put on trial by the court, which had framed charges against them for securing allotment of North Dhadu coal block in Jharkhand allegedly on the basis of false and forged documents.

In its chargesheet, the CBI said JIPL "grossly misrepresented" a number of aspects before the steel and coal ministries to inflate their claim, thereby inducing coal ministry officials and the screening committee to allocate the coal block to them.

Earlier, the special court had fixed April 29 for pronouncing its order on framing of charges in another coal scam case in which the CBI had chargesheeted industrialist Naveen Jindal, Dasari Narayana Rao and 13 others.

RAKING OVER THE COALS

Jharkhand Ispat Pvt Ltd (JIPL) produces high-grade sponge iron from its manufacturing facility at Ramgarh in Jharkhand. The group is promoted by Ram Chandra Rungta. JIPL, R C Rungta and his brother R S Rungta have been convicted on Monday for criminal conspiracy and cheating in the coal block allocation case 2013: CBI registers a case against JIPL and others pertaining to the joint allocation of North Dhadu coal block in Jharkhand

CBI registers a case against JIPL and others pertaining to the joint allocation of North Dhadu coal block in Jharkhand 2014: CBI files chargesheet against JIPL, R S Rungta, R C Rungta, Ramabatar Kedia & Naresh Mahto

CBI files chargesheet against JIPL, R S Rungta, R C Rungta, Ramabatar Kedia & Naresh Mahto Dec 18, 2014: Court takes cognisance on CBI's chargesheet, issues summons for the five

Court takes cognisance on CBI's chargesheet, issues summons for the five Jan 14, 2015: JIPL directors R S Rungta and R C Rungta granted bail by the court. CBI informs court that Ramabatar Kedia and Naresh Mahto have died

JIPL directors R S Rungta and R C Rungta granted bail by the court. CBI informs court that Ramabatar Kedia and Naresh Mahto have died March 9, 2015: Court orders framing of charges against JIPL, R C Rungta and R S Rungta for offences under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will, etc), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 471 (using as genuine a forged document or electronic record) of IPC

Court orders framing of charges against JIPL, R C Rungta and R S Rungta for offences under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security, will, etc), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 471 (using as genuine a forged document or electronic record) of IPC Nov 26, 2015: R S Rungta seeks to summon former PM Manmohan Singh and former Minister of State for Coal Dasari Narayana Rao as witnesses in his defence

R S Rungta seeks to summon former PM Manmohan Singh and former Minister of State for Coal Dasari Narayana Rao as witnesses in his defence Dec 23, 2015: Court dismisses plea to call Singh and Dasari Rao as defence witnesses

Court dismisses plea to call Singh and Dasari Rao as defence witnesses March 28, 2016: Court convicts JIPL, R S Rungta and R C Rungta of offences of criminal conspiracy and cheating

Court convicts JIPL, R S Rungta and R C Rungta of offences of criminal conspiracy and cheating March 31, 2016: Court to hear arguments on the quantum of the sentence in the case

During the arguments on framing of charges, the CBI alleged ex-Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda, also an accused in the case, had favoured two Jindal group firms - Jindal Steel & Power Ltd and Gagan Sponge Iron Pvt Ltd - in the allocation of Amarkonda Murgadangal coal block in Jharkhand.

The CBI also claimed the accused had conspired with each other to get the allocation of the coal block in favour of the two Jindal Group firms.
An Infosys employee from Bengaluru, missing since the deadly bombings in Brussels, was among those killed in the terror attack last week.

The Belgian authorities have identified Raghavendran Ganeshan as one of the victims of the barbaric terror attacks of March 22, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said. Ganeshan was a victim of the blast that took place in the Metro at Maelbeek station in Brussels.

The body is on its way to India via Amsterdam. Sincere condolences to the family, Indian Ambassador to Belgium Manjeev Singh Puri was quoted as saying on Monday.

Infosys condoled the death of Ganeshan and said it will provide all possible support to the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Raghavendrans family and with those who were injured or lost a loved one in these attacks We will continue to provide all possible support to his family in this hour of grief, a company spokesperson said.

Raghvedran, 31, is survived by his wife and a one-month-old baby. He was working at Brussels for last four years on a project with telecom major Proximus. The family, originally from Tamil Nadu, moved to Mumbai several years ago. After he completed his junior college from Mumbai, Raghvendran went to Chennai to study engineering from where he was picked by Infosys during campus placements. He was passing through the Maelbeek station in the Metro like every day to reach his office when the terror attack took place.

This is not the first time an Indian IT firm has lost its employee in a terror attack. In September 2001, six engineers of Wipro, who were working at the World Trade Centre in New York, died when the Twin Towers collapsed after the worst-ever terror attack on American soil.

In December 2014, an Infosys employee was taken hostage among many others by armed terrorists in Sydney. However, he and the other Indian hostage managed to escape unhurt during the rescue operation.

It is extremely sad when you lose somebody so dear. Employees of our organisations are literally a part of our extended family, said B V R Mohan Reddy, chairman of Nasscom. We as an industry have taken a number of precautionary measures but there are instances (like terror attacks) which we cant avoid, he added.
Prime Minister will strongly pitch for global efforts to deal with the threat of nuclear terrorism and may press for a legally binding mechanism to ensure security of radioactive material at the Nuclear Security Summit beginning Thursday in Washington.

Modi will attend the crucial summit being attended by leaders from 52 countries on Thursday and Friday. The summit will deliberate on various aspects of nuclear threats including from terror networks.

India will submit a progress report on nuclear security at the summit.

"India's progress report on nuclear security will be circulated at the summit. The Prime Minister will intervene in this discussion to underline some of the important measures we have taken to strengthen nuclear security," Joint Secretary

(Disarmament) in the Ministry of External Affairs Amandeep Singh Gill said.

He said India will seek concrete measures to combat threat of nuclear terrorism.

Asked whether India may raise the issue of the risk of Pakistan's nuclear weapons falling into the hands of terror groups, Gill said the focus of the NSS has not been specific to any geography.

"We are concerned about the security of not just nuclear materials and radioactive sources around India and globally but also the security of nuclear facilities, the existence of insider threats, the existence of networks whereby technologies and information can be trafficked.

"Those concerns are well-known. The summit provides us an opportunity to work with other nations in cooperative spirit to raise nuclear security standards around the world because a weak link in the chain can be found in any geography," he said.

Gill said India would push for a legally binding instrument relating to nuclear security.

He said India feels the convention on protection of nuclear material and obligatory reporting under UN Security Council resolution 1540, adopted in 2004, on non-state actors getting access to weapons of mass destruction should come into effect.

Gill said a policy discussion on nuclear terrorism based on a hypothetical scenario will feature at the summit but refused to divulge the details. "The scenario will facilitate thoughtful conversation on and around challenges posed by international terrorism."



He said the Prime Minister will share India's assesment of nuclear threat at the summit.

"India expects that the summit would contribute further in increasing high-level awareness of the threat of nuclear terrorism and need to strengthen international cooperation against the terrorists," he said.

The official said India also expected that the summit will help bolster legal and institutional enforcement to strenthen security of nuclear material, radioactive sources and associated facilities and technologies.

"We also expect the summit to uphold confidence in safe, secure and safeguarded extension of nuclear power which will be a critical requirement in reaching and international goal on non-fossil fuel energy," he added.
A five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan, which arrived here yesterday to probe the deadly terrorist attack on the Pathankot Air Force Base, will visit the Investigation Agency (NIA) headquarter on Monday.

According to sources, the JIT comprises of Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) AIG Rai Tahir as convener, Intelligence Bureau Lahore Deputy Director General Azim Arshad, Lt. Col Tanvir Ahmed of the ISI, Lt, Col Irfan Mirza of MI and Gujranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

The team will visit Pathankot on March 29.

The NIA investigators are expected to seek details on arrests in Pakistan and the action it has taken on the basis of intercepted telephone call records handed over by NSA Ajit Doval to his Pakistani counterpart, Lieutenant General Nasir Janjua.

This is for the first time in over two -and- a- half decades that Pakistan will be joining investigations in a terror attack, which was executed by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants.

The Indian authorities are still working on modalities authorities. As of now, it is said that they will not go by road and will only fly to Pathankot.

Reports state that the team's movement would be restricted only to the area of the engagement between security forces and JeM terrorists.

On January 2, terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station, part of the Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force.

Four terrorists were killed and two security personnel were martyred in the gun battle.
Prime Minister Narenda Modi will leave for a three-nation tour from Tuesday, to visit Brussels, Washington, and Riyadh.

Modi will be in Belgian capital Brussels on Wednesday, days after terrorist attacks that left 35 dead and several injured. He would attend the India-European Union (EU) summit and hold a summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel.

India and the EU will seek to take forward their negotiations on the free trade agreement on a number of issues, said Nandini Singla, joint secretary, ministry of external affairs.

India-EU ties have been strained in the recent past after the 28-member bloc had not responded positively to New Delhi's proposal for a brief visit by Modi to Brussels, the EU headquarters, during his trip to France, Germany and Canada in April 2015.

In Brussels, Modi will meet top businessmen, including a delegation of diamond traders, and will also address the Indian diaspora. Antwerp in Belgium is the largest diamond trading hub globally, and has a sizeable presence of Indian traders. A significant number of these traders are from Gujarat. The PM will also have separate meetings with parliamentarians and a delegation of Indologists.

India and EU will release a joint statement and a separate document outlining the roadmap for next five years in the fields of political, security, energy and trade and investments.

From Brussels, Modi will leave for Washington to attend the 4th Nuclear Security Summit on March 31 and April 1. India will submit a progress report on nuclear security at the summit, which is also expected to deliberate on ways to tackle nuclear terrorism.

MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup did not deny the likelihood of Modi meeting Pakistani PM Nawaz Sharif in Washington.

On his return journey, the PM will travel to Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh for a two-day visit. Former PM Manmohan Singh had visited Riyadh in 2010.

Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest partner with bilateral trade exceeding $39 billion in 2014-15. It is also India's largest crude oil supplier accounting for about one-fifth of total imports. There are 2.96 million Indian nationals working in Saudi Arabia. India-Saudi Arabia cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism has increased in recent years, with Riyadh having deported a number of terrorists to India in the past few years including 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused Abu Jundal.

In Riyadh, Modi will meet top CEOs of Saudi companies, visit the famous Masmak fort, will interact with the Indian community and visit Tata Consultancy Services centre, which had trained around 1,000 Saudi women. Modi will also meet Indian workers of a project being implemented by Larsen & Toubro.

Saudi Arabia plans to invest $1 trillion in infrastructure development over the next five years and Modi is likely to pitch for participation of Indian companies in the projects.
India's traditional air superiority is now under "threat" as China and Pakistan are rapidly modernising their air force, a top US think-tank warned Monday, underlining that resolving the "crisis" should be a priority for the government.

"Despite being a world-class combat arm, the IAF's falling end strength and problematic force structure, combined with its troubled acquisition and development programs, threaten India's air superiority over its rapidly modernising rivals, China and Pakistan," said the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Authored by Ashley Tellis, the top American expert on India and South Asia, whose counsel is sought by governments in both the countries, the report "The Manifold Travails of the Indian Air Force" argues that Indian air dominance is vital for deterrence stability in southern Asia and for preserving the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Resolving India's airpower crisis, therefore, should be a priority for New Delhi," Tellis says in his report running in more than 60 pages.

The IAF's fighter force, as of early 2016, is weaker than the numbers suggest, the report said, adding that at nominally 36.5 squadrons, it is well short of its sanctioned strength, and many of its frontline aircraft are obsolete.

China and Pakistan field about 750 advanced air defense/ multirole fighters against the IAF's 450-odd equivalents, the report said.

Though, the airfield infrastructure limitations in Tibet prevent China from bringing all of its air capabilities to bear against India, yet after 2025, China could be able to deploy anywhere between 300 and 400 sophisticated aircraft against India, in addition to the 100 to 200 advanced fighters likely to exist in Pakistan by then, it said.

"The IAF's desire for 42-45 squadrons by 2027 - some 750-800 aircraft - is compelling, if India is to preserve the airpower superiority it has enjoyed in southern Asia since 1971," it said, recommending that India needs to safeguard its regional air superiority over both Pakistan and China by mustering the requisite end strength and enhancing its extant operational advantages.

The IAF's likelihood of reaching its 2027 goal with a high proportion of advanced fighters is poor, Tellis concluded in his report.

"It is stymied by serious constraints on India's defense budget, the impediments imposed by the acquisition process, the meager achievements of the country's domestic development organisations, the weaknesses of the higher defense management system, and India's inability to reconcile the need for self-sufficiency in defense production with the necessity of maintaining technological superiority over rivals," it said.

The IAF is attempting to reach its desired end strength by acquiring the Tejas Mark 1 to beef up its lightweight segment, filling out the remainder of its Medium Multirole Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) purchase in its medium-weight segment, and continuing with the Su-30MKI acquisition and the PAK-FA (Prospective Airborne Complex of Frontline Aviation) co-development programs to sustain its heavyweight segment, the report noted.

Tellis said that all three tiers of the IAF are currently in trouble.

The Tejas Mark 1 is handicapped by significant technological deficiencies; the prospects for expanding the MMRCA component to compensate for the Tejas's shortcomings are unclear; and the IAF's reluctance to proceed fully with the PAK-FA programme could undermine its fifth generation fighter ambitions.

The Carnegie report recommends that the IAF should revisit some aspects of its current approach and should be cautious about expanding the Tejas acquisition beyond six squadrons and consider enlarging the MMRCA component with the cheapest fourth-generation-plus Western fighter available.

India should also reassess the decision to develop the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft indigenously and avoid weakening the collaboration with Russia on the PAK-FA programme, the report recommends.

It recommends that India should expand its investments in advanced munitions, combat support aircraft, electronic warfare, physical infrastructure, and pilot proficiency-all current strengths- while being realistic about its domestic capacity to produce sophisticated combat aircraft.

"Indian policymakers must especially guard against the temptation to prioritise indigenous design and manufacture over the imperative of providing the IAF's able pilots with the best fighters available," Tellis said in his report.
Maharashtra finance minister, Sudhir Mungantiwar, on Monday strongly defended his pro-farmer budget for 2016-17, saying that an allocation of Rs 26,819.39 crore has been proposed for agriculture and allied sectors, compared with Rs 15,005 crore in 2013-14 during Congress-NCP government. In his reply to the debate on the budget in the state assembly, he said that Maharashtras capex in agriculture stood at Rs 13,995 crore in 2015-16, higher than Rs 10,976 crore in Gujarat and Rs 9,132 crore in Madhya Pradesh.

He indicated that the government will raise debt to complete pending projects in order to increase the irrigation potential in the state. The minister said he has proposed an allocation of Rs 7,850 crore for the irrigation sector in 2016-17 compared to Rs 7,272 crore in 2015-16, Rs 6,528 crore in 2014-15, Rs 7,036 crore in 2013-14, Rs 5,995 crore in 2-12-13 and Rs 6,489 crore in 2011-12.

He countered the oppositions attack on the size of the states annual plan of Rs 56,997 crore for 2016-17, compared with Rs 85,557 crore in Gujarat and Rs 74,401 crore in Madhya Pradesh. "Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh include allocation to state undertakings and therefore their plan size is higher than Maharashtra. Based on such calculations, Maharashtras annual plan is worth Rs 85,557 crore. The state plan was Rs 11,000 crore in 2005-06 and it rose to Rs 45,000 crore in 2012-13, and Rs 49,000 crore in 2013-14," the minister said.

Mungantiwar also defended the revenue deficit of Rs 3,644 crore estimated by the end of 2016-17 and recalled that the Congress-NCP government had time and again tabled budgets with revenue deficit. "The revenue deficit was largely due to the governments move to provide maximum help to farmers hit by drought and natural calamities," he said. However, he assured the house that the government will make every effort to present revenue surplus in future.

The minister also refuted the oppositions charge of reduction in the Central grant received by Maharashtra and said that the state has received Rs 24,964 crore during 2015-16, compared with Rs 14,322 crore in 2012-13, Rs 13,341 crore in 2013-14, Rs 24,981 crore in 2014-15.

The minister added that the government has proposed capex of Rs 32,537 crore in 2016-17 against Rs 29,716 crore in 2015-16.
Worried over the slow pace of implementation of the ultra mega power project proposed at Bhedabahal, chief minister Naveen Patnaik has moved the Prime Minister's office to expedite work on the project.

"The UMPP was supposed to be taken up on a fast track mode for which Odisha as the host state has already contributed Rs 350 crore as sought by the project proponents of UMPP. However, the progress for development of UMPP is rather slow even when all the requisite support is provided by the state government", Patnaik said in his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The UMPP proposed to generate 4,000 Mw power is estimated to cost Rs 30,000 crore. The UMPP is structured to be developed through two special purpose vehicles (SPVs), Odisha Integrated Power Ltd (OIPL) and Odisha Infra Power Ltd. Both are subsidiaries of Power Finance Corporation (PFC), the nodal agency for implementation of UMPPs in the country.

Patnaik has sought early initiation of the bidding process for the UMPP.

The bidding process is expected to take off after the Union Cabinet's approval to the revised standard bidding documents (SBDs) for UMPPs.

The power ministry's decision to revise the SBDs stemmed from the pull out of the private players from the bidding process.

Adani Power Ltd, CLP India Ltd, Jindal Power Ltd, JSW Energy Ltd, Larsen & Toubro Ltd (L&T), National Hydro Power Corporation Ltd (NHPC), NTPC Ltd, Sterlite Infraventures Ltd and Tata Power Ltd had responded to applications of Odisha Integrated Power Ltd (OIPL), a subsidiary floated by Power Finance Corporation (PFC) for Bhedabahal UMPP.

Private players, in prior communications with the ministry of power, had raised concerns on the design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) model for the UMPP. They argued that under the DBFOT model, the risk was not apportioned equitably as all losses go to the power producer while gains went to the procurer.

In the final SBDs, the clauses relating to fixing responsibility on the host state over land acquisition and rehabilitation & resettlement (R&R) have been significantly diluted. Now, a decision has been taken that bidding would be done only for those UMPPs where substantial progress has been achieved on critical parameters.

The Bhedabahal UMPP needs 3246 acres land in all that includes 2733 acres private land, 444 acres government land and the rest 69 acres revenue forest land.

Total cost of procuring land has been worked out at Rs 718 crore. Compensation of up to 91 per cent has been disbursed to the affected families.

Meenakshi, Meenakshi-B and dip side of Meenakshi coal blocks have been allocated for the 4,000 Mw UMPP. The annual requirement of fuel for the Bhedabahal UMPP has been estimated at 19-20 million tonne of coal.
After a delay of about a year, the much-awaited Defence Procurement Policy (DPP)-2016 was unveiled by the government on Monday with an aim to ensure transparency, fast-track acquisition and give a push to the 'Make in India' initiative.

DPP-2016, launched by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, however, did not contain a key chapter on the proposed strategic partnership. Parrikar said it will take another 2-3 months to finalise this.

To be applicable from April, DPP lays the road map on how India, the world's largest arms importer, will acquire equipment in the future.

The announcement was made at the inaugural ceremony of Defence Expo (Defexpo) 2016, the largest ever of its type to be hosted by India, at Quepem town, about 50 km from Panaji.

Parrikar said a review of DPP will be undertaken after six months.

"I do not say that the document is foolproof. Let us take a review after six months. Nothing is perfect but we are taking it to perfection," Parrikar said.

With the new DPP, it will be ensured that there is greater transparency and faster clearances, he said.

The DPP has been loaded online on the Defence Ministry's website and would be made available in hard copy format after 15 days.

Parrikar said certain concerns of foreign companies which were expressed in the past, would be addressed through this policy in the next three to four months.

Parrikar also admitted that the pace of negotiation with France for 36 Rafale jets was "not enough" but hoped it will be concluded "very soon", nearly a year after a government-to-government deal for the multi-medium role combat aircraft was announced.
Four of the country's largest airlines have called for an independent regulator to ensure a transparent pricing mechanism for aviation turbine fuel (ATF). But, this has been stalled by state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs). According to sources in the civil aviation ministry, there were attempts to bring the pricing of ATF under the regulation of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB).

"A number of meetings were held between the public-sector OMCs and the petroleum and aviation ministry officials but nothing was finalised. There is opposition from OMCs regarding this," said a ministry official.

PNGRB has not been mandated by the government to regulate prices of petroleum products. ATF prices are fixed by Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) and Bharat Petroleum directly. The ATF price was increased on March 1 after two consecutive price cuts. ATF price touched Rs 3,711 for a kilolitre in September 2012 but came down to Rs 39,301 on March 1. The steep fall in crude oil prices might have played a big role in the turnaround story of the Indian aviation sector, but airlines are still not convinced, saying they have not received the full benefit in terms of jet fuel pricing. This, according to the airlines, is due to the public-sector OMCs, which enjoy monopoly in the market and are not keen to lower ATF prices.

"If the government wants to make flying affordable, it should first make the pricing competitive," said an airline executive. An SMS sent to Nishi Vasudeva, CMD of HPCL, remained unanswered. Rahul Bhatia, Ajay Singh, Naresh Goyal and Nusli Wadia - the promoters of IndiGo, SpiceJet, Jet Airways and GoAir - under the banner of the lobby group Federation of Indian Airlines in a letter to the top executives of OMCs complained of the same and asked for sharing the pricing mechanism of jet fuel with the airlines. In the letter, the association termed the pricing mechanism ambiguous. "Agree to a mechanism where all charges and the basis for such charges should be shared with airlines in a fully collaborative and transparent manner at the time of price fixation each month," said the letter.

According to an estimate by consultancy firm CAPA, ATF price is subject to multiplicity of taxes in India and, as a result, it consists of almost 45 per cent of the operating cost of an Indian airline compared to 32.3 per cent of a global airline.
The 13th India-European Union (EU) summit is likely to resume negotiations on the Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) - the official free trade pact pending since 2007 - and on a host of other trade issues when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Belgium on Tuesday.

The PM's visit to Brussels, as part of a three-nation tour, comes days after deadly terror attacks in the Belgian capital. After Brussels, the PM will be in Washington to attend the Nuclear Security Summit. On his return journey, he will visit Saudi Arabia.

In Brussels, Modi will attend the India-EU summit, which is being held after a gap of four years. He will also hold a bilateral meeting with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel. The topic of terrorism would be a "very important part" of the meeting, ministry of external affairs said on Monday.

The India- is aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two sides, which are likely to deliberate on ways to finalise the free trade agreement (FTA). The last summit had taken place in 2012. In Brussels, Modi will meet top businessmen, including a delegation of diamond traders, and will also address the Indian diaspora. He will meet Parliamentarians and a delegation of Indologists, separately.

ISSUES ON THE TABLE Negotiations on the Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement  the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the European Union (EU) and India is to top the agenda of discussions. The FTA has been pending since 2007

Issue related to facilitation of greater movement of professionals from one country to another, arising out of the Mode 4 provisions of the 1995 General Agreement on Trade in Services will also be fought over bitterly

The EU ban on import of 700 generic drugs by Hyderabad-based GVK Biosciences

The EU is also seeking lower import duties on a range of commodities, including automobiles, liquor, along with greater market access to India

Prime Minister is expected to hardsell the flagship Make in India scheme, while setting his sights on higher foreign direct investment from Europe

Other than being India's largest trading partner and biggest export destination, the 28-member bloc has also been New Delhi's "strategic partner" since 2004. Although two-way commerce was $98.5 billion in 2014-15, the EU's share in India's total trade progressively shrank in recent years. India's exports to the bloc have shrunk from 22 per cent in 2004-05 to 16 per cent in 2014-15. Imports have witnessed a similar slide, going down from 17.3 per cent to 11 per cent. The EU has also been a large source of foreign direct investment (FDI) with India receiving $25 billion in FDI equity inflows from the region between April 2012 and May 2015.
Clearing the way for the entry of telecom service retailers, the inter-ministerial panel Telecom Commission on Monday approved a long-pending proposal on virtual network operators, which will offer voice and data services under their own brands without owning network or spectrum.

"The Commission has approved a Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) recommendation on virtual network operator (VNO) after including clarification it provided. It will need the telecom minister's approval. A new licence will be issued for this. It should be implemented within a few weeks," an official source said.

"VNO will be able to offer all telecom services provided by a telecom operator with which it has partnered. It can sell services of more than one operator," the source said.

A VNO leases bandwidth from various telecom operators to provide voice and data services to customers.

These would offer all services permitted under Unified Licences - permits that were issued in 2013. These players are expected to reduce marketing and sales costs of struggling telecom companies, besides sharing some operational expenses, too.

"VNO will be able to invest in setting up mobile towers and other elements in network required for providing services. However, it will not be able to sign a deal directly to interconnect infrastructure laid by it with other telecom operator," the source said.

These players may also offer some relief to BSNL and MTNL, which have already adopted a revenue-sharing model focusing on reducing capital expenditure. However, these companies will need to change their old licence to Unified Licence.

"VNO will be able to integrate service and offer it to customer as it wants. There will be no limit on integration and offering of services from licence or government that will be available shortly. VNO on its own will be free to use technology required for offering various services," the source said.

In case a VNO has partnered with multiple service providers, it can offer voice call service of one and data service of the other player.
Each syndicate operating under Lloyds, the specialist market, has to retain a minimum of 30 per cent or 50 per cent of the Indian reinsurance business based on the type of the certificate or registration. In its regulations on Lloyd's India, the Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) said a syndicate granted approval would not be eligible for order of preference for cessions by Indian insurers unless they have received approval for exemption from the retention limit. Such cessations are available to Indian reinsurers for a minimum period of three years.

The regulator said every Indian insurer, in order of preference, should offer for participation in its facultative and treaty surpluses to Lloyds India on par with branch offices of foreign reinsurers. Lloyds India was also required to report to the regulator more than five per cent erosion in the net-owned fund of the applicant (syndicates).

Irdai said the service company of Lloyds India should retain the core activities such as underwriting, claims settlement and regulatory compliances. It will be allowed to outsource functions such as back-office servicing, investment, IT, accounts, marketing, human resources, administration and publicity.

The regulator said where it was of the opinion that the operations of Lloyds India, its service company or syndicate(s) were not in the interests of the Indian market, it reserved the right to take appropriate steps including suspension or cancellation of certificate of registration after giving an opportunity to Lloyds of be heard. Any syndicate or service company opened with the regulators approval would be closed only with its prior approval, Irdai clarified.

Lloyds, which has a representative office in India and has been granted certificate of registration to function as a branch office, would be required to close the representative office within six months of grant of the certificate of registration.

Syndicates of Lloyds India through their service company would transact reinsurance business with Indian insurers, as well as reinsurance business outside India in accordance with their laid down underwriting policy, Irdai said.
The math alone is a bewildering exercise for Mahfuz Anam, the editor of Bangladesh's most popular English-language newspaper. Since February, the number of legal claims against him has climbed to 79 cases: 62 for defamation and 17 for sedition.

If convicted in all of the cases, Anam faces a prison sentence of up to 175 years. In the meantime, he is obliged to crisscross the country to appear at hearings in 50 of the country's 64 judicial districts, and is petitioning the country's high court to consolidate them. In some instances, he said in a recent interview, "I might have to physically appear in more than one place on the same day."



Officials say the government is not behind the barrage of litigation, though many of the cases were filed by activists with the ruling Awami League, and at least one by an assistant public prosecutor. They were filed after Anam made an unusual public confession, expressing regret over articles that his newspaper, The Daily Star, published years ago on uncorroborated allegations of corruption against the current prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

Hasina's control over Bangladesh's political system has tightened since 2014, when the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party boycotted parliamentary elections and the Awami League swept the polls, virtually unopposed. That election pushed the Nationalist Party and its leaders to the margins of public life, where they have remained, despite a violent protest campaign that resulted in more than 100 deaths last year.

With political opposition dwindling, it has become increasingly risky to publish material critical of the government. Twenty-five defamation cases are underway against Matiur Rahman, the editor of Prothom Alo, The Daily Star's sister paper and the country's second most popular Bengali newspaper.

Asif Nazrul, a law professor at the University of Dhaka, said the legal cases would further weaken Bangladesh's civil society. "These cases are a strong signal to not just Mahfuz Anam but to all media that if you go beyond the limits that have been set, then you too can be prosecuted for sedition," he said.

Pressure on the two newspapers began to build last fall. After Prothom Alo and The Daily Star published a report in August on the killing of five men by army troops in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, a former conflict area where the military has a large presence, a series of major private advertisers abruptly withdrew from the two newspapers, and advertising revenues for both publications dropped steeply.

One executive said the advertisers had come under pressure from the government. Tor Odland, a vice president with the Norwegian company Telenor Group, said in a statement at the time that the Bangladesh telecommunications company Grameenphone, which is part of Telenor, "has, along with several other large corporations, received an instruction from the authorities to stop advertisements in two leading newspapers in Bangladesh." Press officers for the government denied giving any such instruction. Grameenphone has since placed occasional one-time advertisements in The Daily Star.

Tension returned last month when The Daily Star celebrated its 25th anniversary. In response to a question on a televised talk show, Anam expressed regret for a decision he made in 2007, when the country was led by a military-backed caretaker government, to publish uncorroborated allegations provided to the newspaper by military intelligence officials. The corruption allegations were the basis for the arrest and 11-month detention of Hasina, then the prime minister. Her rival, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Khaleda Zia, was also detained.

Sajeeb Wazed, Hasina's son, reacted immediately, writing on Facebook that he wanted "Mahfuz Anam behind bars and on trial for treason."The defamation cases began to be filed after Wazed's post, sometimes at a rate of five or more per day. Hasanul Haq Inu, Bangladesh's information minister, said the government had not orchestrated the cases.

"This is not the government against Mahfuz Anam. This is the people against Mahfuz Anam," he said in an interview. "The Daily Star continues to publish, and has written pieces critical of the government since the cases were filed. The government has no problem with that. There is freedom of the press here."



He added, however, that Hasina and her son "have every right to want" Anam to face prosecution.

Hasina has demanded that he resign from the newspaper and stand trial. "The editors will be tried just like we are trying the war criminals," she said at a public discussion.

Anam described himself as "flabbergasted" at the cases filed against him, noting that the material published in 2007 was "national news, covered by everybody." Even today, he said in an interview, journalists are under pressure to uncritically publish material provided by military officials, among them accounts of civilians killed in confrontations with police or military officials.

"Do we have a chance to verify that actually what is being told to us is substantiated by facts?" he said. "We don't have that."



Mostafizur Rahman, an assistant public prosecutor who filed the first sedition case against Anam, said the daily's reporting was an attempt to "try and wipe out that family, in order to put this country under the thumb of an evil force by printing falsehoods." Asked about reporting on high-level corruption, he held up his hands, palms outward, as if to show that no such reporting should be necessary. He invoked Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh's first leader, using an affectionate nickname. "You are asking what if someone from Bangabandhu's family does something illegal?" he said. "His family could never do something like that. Such a family would not be Bangabandhu's family."





2016 The New York Times News Service
Belgian authorities conducted 13 raids across the country on Sunday, detaining nine people as part of their efforts to prevent further terrorist attacks and learn more about the fatal March 22 airport and subway bombings in Brussels.

The raids came a day after Italy arrested an Algerian man with a possible connection to the attacks in Belgium, which left at least 31 dead, including three suicide bombers.

Prosecutors in Brussels said late Sunday that a group including the Algerian, whom they identified only with the initial J, may have produced false documents used by some of the attackers in Paris and "probably also by Salah Abdeslam," the only surviving suspect in the November 13 assaults, who has been in Belgian custody since March 18. Investigators are looking into whether the group also provided fake documents to the perpetrators of the Brussels atrocities.

Meanwhile, Belgian prosecutors on Monday released a man they had charged in connection with last week's deadly Brussels bombings, saying they did not have enough information to justify holding him. The man, named only as Faycal C, had been accused of taking part in the activities of a terrorist group and actual and attempted terrorist murder after being detained on Thursday.

Flemish Suburbs



The raids on Sunday took place in greater Brussels and the Flemish suburbs, with four searches carried out in Mechelen, one in Duffel, three in Brussels, one in Molenbeek, one in Anderlecht and three in Laeken. Prosecutors released five of the nine people detained after questioning and haven't decided whether to place anyone in custody, according to a statement.

The terrorist attacks led to a wave of investigations, recriminations and efforts to prevent further violence as authorities have struggled to find out what happened in the build-up to the bombings. The Brussels airport, where 11 were killed, is expected to stay closed until at least Tuesday. The Maelbeek metro station, the site of the other attack, is closed to passengers but trains are passing through.

A suspect identified as Abderamane A. was charged on Sunday with participating in activities of a terrorist group in connection with the investigation of a plot in France, according to Belga news agency.

Another suspect, identified as Rabah N., was charged on Saturday with participating in terrorist activities in the French case, which earlier saw the arrest of Reda Kriket in Argenteuil, France, according to the Belgian prosecutor. Abderamane A. was shot and apprehended on Friday at a tram stop in the Schaerbeek district of Brussels.

Also in connection with that case, Dutch police on Sunday arrested a 32-year-old Frenchman in Rotterdam on suspicion of involvement in planning a terrorist attack, Belga reported, citing prosecutors. The suspect is expected to be extradited to France soon.
Guar gum processors have shut around 60 per cent of installed capacity over the past three years, following the sharp decline in its demand on falling crude oil prices.

Guar gum is used in the fracking process for crude oil extration. When crude's price jumped to $147 a barrel in 2008, the United States revived its extraction in deepwells by using guar gum. India, the world's only producer, shipped a record 700,000 tonnes in 2011-12, of which 60 per cent went to the US. Processing factories mushroomed, taking the gum's installed capacity to around 1.5 million tonnes. With crude oil now at $40 a barrel, the demand evaporated and the industry is now left with around 0.7 mt of gum processing capacity.

"Foreign demand is unlikely to see an uptick till crude oil bounces back to $65 -70 a barrel. We can see at least a 50 per cent decline in guar gum export next year," said Uday Merchant, chairman, Lucid Colloids, a city-based gum producer and exporter.

Around 70 per cent of gum output finds application in the oil and gas sector. The rest goes for hardening and sustaining agents in the textile industry and elsewhere.

Guar seed and gum prices are now Rs 3,200 a qtl and Rs 5,700 a qtl, respectively, resulting in many processing units turning unviable. "Around 60 per cent of gum production capacity has shut down. Producers are completing past orders. So, the overall scenario is likely to worsen further in the months to come," said Ravikant Kanoongo, director, Hindustan Technosol, a Jaipur-based gum exporter.

Various estimates suggest seed output at 1.6 mt for 2015-16, a decline of around 10 per cent from 1.8 mt the previous year; it was a record 2.7 mt in 2013-14.

Seed output this year is estimated to decline by 50 per cent, on farmers shifting to millets in the major producing states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh.
has rallied 8% to Rs 111 on the BSE after the company announced plans to transfer the rayon and transparent paper business to unlisted Cygnet Industries through a slump sale.

In a notice to the bourses, Kesoram said it would transfer the rayon undertaking to Cygnet through a slump sale for not less than Rs 480 crore. SBI Capital did the valuation of the business.

Cygnet is proposed to be converted into a wholly owned subsidiary once acquires its entire share capital from March 31. Shareholders approval would be sought through postal ballot and the entire transaction is proposed to be completed by June 30, 2016.

Kesoram Industries rayon business accounts for less than 5% of its total turnover of Rs 4,873 crore as on March 31, 2015.

In past five trading sessions, the stock surged 29% from Rs 86 on March 17, as compared to 2% rise in the S&P BSE Sensex.

Kesoram Industries, the B K Birla group company on March 22 sold its investments in listed companies worth Rs 400 crore to Birla group holding company, Pilani Investments, the holding company of Birla group. This comes months after Kesoram sold its tyre business to JK Tyres for Rs 2,200 crore.

At 11:39 AM, the stock was up 5% at Rs 108 as compared to 0.58% decline in the S&P BSE Sensex. Around 158,000 shares changed hands on the counter on the BSE so far.
IDBI Bank has allotted 158 million equity shares, equivalent to 7.16 per cent stake, on preferential basis to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), which now holds over 14 per cent stake in the state-run lender. The allotment of shares is part of IDBI Bank's plan to offload government shareholding as part of its privatisation move.

In the Budget speech, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the process of transformation of IDBI Bank had started. "Government will take it forward and also consider the option of reducing its stake" to below 50 per cent, he had said.

IDBI Bank, in a regulatory filing on Monday, said the preferential allotment of 158,761,801 shares, equivalent to 7.16 per cent stake, to LIC happened on March 23. Earlier, LIC held 7.21 per cent stake (137,017,058 shares) in the bank. After acquisition, LIC's stake in IDBI Bank goes up to 14.37 per cent or 295,778,859 shares.

The government at present holds 72 per cent stake in the bank, down from more than 80 per cent earlier.

Meanwhile, a section of IDBI Bank employees on Monday went on a four-day strike to protest the government's move to privatise the bank. They have demanded that the government should give an assurance in writing that the public shareholding in the bank will not go below 51 per cent.

Earlier this month, IDBI Bank chief Kishor Kharat had said international institutions like CDC of England and GIC of Singapore have shown interest in buying stake in the bank.

Besides, there were media reports that the government was in talks with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank Group member, to sell up to 15 per cent stake in the struggling infra lender-turned-commercial bank.

In the December quarter, the bank had reported its worst numbers with a net loss of Rs 2,183 crore on a massive rise in non-performing assets, making it the second-largest loss in the nation's banking history after Bank of Baroda's over Rs 3,342 crore in the same period.

Shares of IDBI Bank closed at Rs 68.25 apiece on the BSE on Monday, down 3.60 per cent from its previous level.
prices rose on Monday after a three-day break, adding to gains in recent weeks as optimism holds that a production freeze among major producers may be implemented, but volumes were thin as a number of remain on holiday for Easter.

US crude's front-month contract was up 50 cents at $39.96 a barrel. Last week, the contract rose 2 cents, finishing up for a sixth straight week.

Brent's front-month climbed 45 cents to $40.89 a barrel. Last week, it fell 76 cents, or nearly 2%, its first decline in five weeks.

prices have risen about 50% from multi-year lows hit in January on glut worries.

Declining US output and strong gasoline demand were responsible for some of that recovery, but the bulk of it was powered by major producers' plans to freeze output at January's highs.

Producers are due to meet on April 17 to discuss the plan.

"The market is going to be held in suspense for a few weeks," said Victor Shum, senior oil and gas analyst at IHS in Singapore.

"There is going to be pressure on the participants in the meeting to ensure they achieve something. Otherwise they risk the support-market sentiment that we are seeing now dissipate rapidly," he said.

Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) member Iraq's oil exports have held steady so far in March, according to loading data and industry sources, halting for now the rapid supply growth from the country.

Baghdad has given verbal support to the initiative by OPEC and outside producers to freeze output.

In the short term, investors will be looking out for monthly US production figures for January to be released later this week, said Shum.

The figures, although months behind, offer one of the most closely monitored data sets for traders and analysts trying to pinpoint signs of a bust in the six-year US shale boom.

US crude oil production fell for a third month in December to 9.26 million barrels per day due to declines in the biggest shale-producing states, although the fall was offset by a rise offshore.

"Anything higher than 9.2 million bpd would indicate further US production resilience," said Shum.

China's refined fuel stocks at the end of February rose 17.3% from the previous month to their highest level in four years, while commercial crude oil stocks were up 1.1%, the official Xinhua News Agency reported on Monday.
has hit a 52-week high of Rs 320 a share in the Bombay Stock Exchange on March 28. The stock prices saw an upward trend from March 18 and went through a significant hike from March 21.

On March 21, the stock prices went up from Rs 287.6 a share to Rs 305.35 per share, before closing the day. The prices went up during the next days and has hit a 52 week high today. The stock prices were a 52 week low at Rs 201 a share on August 24, 2015, according to BSE.

On March 16, the company announced that it has made an arragement with e-commerce major Snapdeal to sell its two-wheelers online. It has also announced about the meetings it is organised with analysts and fund houses from MSD India Partners, Cartica Capital, Ventura Securities Ltd, Prabhudas Lilladher and Ward Ferry Management Ltd during the period between March 22 and 31. Read more from our special coverage on "TVS MOTOR" TVS Motor sales up 7% in February

In January, this year, Venu Srinivasan, Chairman of said that the company is expected to see big growth in motor cycle sales this year.

Overall the company hopes to close the fiscal with a market share of 15.5 per cent from the current 14 per cent and next year it hopes to increase to 18 per cent.

The company is expecting to increase its market share from current seven per cent to 10 per cent, in the motorcycles, by end of this year. In the premium segment the company plans to increase market share to 22 per cent from the current 17 per cent.

It has reported a 19.4 per cent growth during the quarter ended December at Rs 107.7 crore as against Rs 90.2 crore, a year ago. The profit was in line with most of the analysts estimate. The company also reported a 11 per cent growth in revenue during the quarter at Rs 2,940 crores in the quarter under review.

The company has an agreement with global brand BMW to manufacture new range of bikes. According to earlier reports, the partners are expected to introduce the India product by 2016 and there might be two products, one under the brand of TVS and the other under the brand of BMW. The BMW-TVS partnership is looking at launching motorcycles in the sub-500 cc category.
Bollywood actor Arjun Kapoor, who will be soon seen in R. Balki's 'Ki and Ka,' recently opened up about his wish to visit Pakistan.

In a recent interview, the 30-year-old actor said that he believes governments of both India and Pakistan are responsible for the lack of successful collaborations between the two countries, reports the Express Tribune.

"A film is not something that can be made over the phone or Skype. Creative people meet, spend time together and then come up with something. Sadly, Indians are not very easily accepted in Pakistan and that has a lot to do with the governments. They don't create a congenial environment, just do business together. Films, however, don't have any borders," Arjun was quoted as saying.

Talking about her ancestral roots in Pakistan, the '2 States' star said, "My grandfather is from Peshawar; he was born there. So we are the Kapoors who hail from that side of the world. My heritage is Pakistani and I have loads of Pakistani fans on social media who I would love to connect with. I would love to visit, but I'm waiting for something special, to give the audience a good time."

'Ki and Ka' that also stars kareena Kapoor in lead role with hit the theatres on April 1.
A Special CBI Court on Monday convicted Jharkhand Ispat Pvt. Ltd (JIPL) directors R.S. Rungta and R.C. Rungta in a coal scam case pertaining to allotment of coal block.

The case involves the JIPL and its directors who are accused in acquiring the coal block on the basis of false documents.

The court had on March 21 last year framed charges against them for the alleged offences punishable under Sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy) read with 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security), 468 (forgery for the purpose of cheating) and 471 (using a forged document as genuine) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry on Monday issued extensive directives to the States producing cotton to check the adverse effect of white fly on the crop.

White fly had inflicted tremendous damage to cotton last year in Punjab and Haryana.

To save crop of cotton from the likely menace of white fly, the Government has taken various preventive measures.

Elaborate assessment and analysis has been carried out. The sowing process of cotton is set in, in the beginning of April in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

Central Cotton Research Regional Centre, Sirsa has also held a meeting with the officials of Ministry of Agriculture, Scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and senior officials of Departments of Agriculture from Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan reviewed the preventive measures to check the menace of white fly.

The extensive issued by the Centre state that the sowing process should be carried out within the precincts of scheduled timeframe, only recommended seeds must be utilized, close watch might be kept on the movement of pests and timely sprinkling to check its spread.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research has also provided a list of the pests resist seeds 4for the farmers. This year emphasis is being given on the timely sowing of cotton.
A Hyderabad Court will today hear the bail plea of 27 students, who were arrested for staging a violent protest against varsity Vice-Chancellor Appa Rao Podile.

Following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula, Rao had gone on leave and resumed office on March 23.

The students have been booked on 11 charges - pertaining to rioting, voluntarily causing hurt, voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty, among others.

Ex union home minister Susheel Kumar Shinde and Congress MP Rajeev Satav will meet the students at the Cherlapali Jail at 11 a.m.

Following the students' protest, classes in the varsity were suspended till March 27.
Krishnapatnam Port, the country's largest all-weather; deep water port on the east-coast earmarked a historical moment for India's bilateral trade and commerce as the first direct container vessel, part of coastal shipping agreement to facilitate trade between India and Bangladesh, set sail from the port on 28th March 2016.

The trade agreements which were signed during the reign of the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1974 were revived back after a period of four decades during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka last year.

MV Harbour-1 owned by Neepa Paribahan and built by Western Marine Shipyard is the first Bangladesh container vessel to have received the permission from the shipping departments of both the countries.

Commenting on the development, Chinta Sasidhar, Managing Director, Krishnapatnam Port Company Ltd (KPCL) said "This agreement is historic not just for Krishnapatnam but for the entire nation as this would pave way for enhanced bilateral trade ties between the two closest neighbours of the subcontinent. Besides an improved connectivity the service will play a vital role in decongesting the border points and bringing down the cost and transit time involved, thereby providing the best competitive freight rates to the advantage of the industry".

A standard operating procedure was signed between India and Bangladesh last November to move commercial cargo between the two countries also stating the provisions and procedures to be followed for such movement.

To facilitate easy bilateral trade, many conditions have been waived by both countries. The vessels of both the countries upon entry in to India and Bangladesh shall be treated as domestic vessels and not foreign going vessels. The provision will play a key role in addressing the traffic congestion at Petrapole (India) and Benapole (Bangladesh) the two border points which pose as one of the biggest impediments to the movement of EXIM cargo.

This will also offer to reduce the paper work required at the customs check points and port dues paid at Indian ports too will be at par with Indian vessels. The vessel and cargo will also enjoy complete Protection and Indemnity (P&I) coverage insuring cargo from the point of loading to the final destination and till the time the parcel reaches the final consignee.

The crews on both vessels are exempted from aligning to international certifications as they are certified as per the provisions of the two countries stated by the SOP. Both the countries agree to reduce customs documentation and other requirements to the essential minimum for the purpose of easier cargo movement and to have custom stations at or near the points of entry and exit in each country.

"Earlier the shipments from Indian ports being transported to Bangladesh were routed either via Colombo or Singapore. With the launch of the direct service, time taken for such shipments would come down from 2-5 days. We are certain that this will not only build the relationship but also reflect positively on exporters and importers of both the countries, ultimately benefitting the end consumers." said Anil Yendluri, Director and CEO, KPCL.

The opening of this route will also enable the movement of cargo to the North Eastern states of India through coastal shipping up to Chittagong and thereafter by road or inland waterways. Secondly, the deep draft ports on the eastern coast of India can be "hub ports" for the onward transportation of cargo to Bangladesh through River Sea Vessels (RSV).

The SOP stipulates that only two categories of vessels - RSV-IV and RSV-III can ply between the ports. While category IV of the river-sea vessels can sail during all weather conditions and during the night, class III vessels are not navigable only fair weather. These vessels can still through a depth of 3.76 meters and can carry 176 TEUs of cargo at a go.

Ninety two percent of the country's export import trade and draw cargo from western, central and southern India headed to Bangladesh. A lot of cargo can get diverted from road to sea through this initiative and exporters can benefit from rate and transit advantage. A lot of yarn from Ludhiana in Punjab can directly go to Krishnapatnam instead of going to Mundra.

"Shipping to ICT Pangaon via KPCT will provide exporters with a smooth, hassle-free, faster transit and cost efficient shipping service. Exporters and importers from Bengaluru, trading with Bangladesh can utilise and benefit by our weekly train service from ICD Bengaluru to KPCT or road services by trailer/truck" says Vinita Venkatesh, Director, Krishnapatnam Port Container Terminal.

As carrier shipping corporation of India (SCI)supported KPCT for this call. Some of the customers who booked containers on this voyage are : Kaveri Ginning Mill Pvt Ltd, Manjeet Cotton Pvt Ltd, Wisdom Cotton, M Sherif & Sons, Awatac Container Line Pvt Ltd, Shipping Corporation of India, Pisces Container Lines (I) Pvt Ltd, VVS Global Forwarders Pvt Ltd.
One of the great writers in contemporary American fiction, Jim Harrison, died at age 78 at his home in Patagonia, Arizona.

Spokeswoman Deb Seager of Grove Atlantic, Harrison's publisher, told that he died on March 26, but the cause is still unknown, reports Daily Mail.

Harrison's wife of more than 50 years, Linda King Harrison, died last fall.

The author of the novella 'Legends of the Fall,' made a prolific career with his descriptions of outdoor life, often through the lens of history, and was unconcerned by the limits of genre.

Harrison spent much of his time in a rural cabin near his Michigan hometown and often found himself compared to Ernest Hemingway, who also hailed from the midwest and cultivated a reputation for seeking adventure.

Harrison was not fond of the comparison, writing once that Hemingway seemed to him "a woodstove that didn't give off much heat.
India's leading mobile app for transportation, Ola has partnered with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance to provide motor insurance solutions to its driver partners.

The tie-up between the two companies will have easy access to availing motor insurance with a host of value added services and add on covers like depreciation shield and engine protector provided by Bajaj Allianz.

The partnership will increase savings on insurance premiums for Ola driver-partners and provide convenient claim settlement services through a network of over 4,000 Bajaj Allianz preferred workshops.

The two companies are also working together to create a digital infrastructure that will bring insurance transactions like purchase or claims, fully online.

"Driver Entrepreneurs are key stakeholders to the growth of mobility in India and we are building a robust ecosystem for them through initiatives like these, enabling them to grow professionally and personally," said COO at Ola Pranay Jivrajka.

"Motor Insurance is essential for driver-partners and together with Bajaj Allianz, we are enabling easy access to driver-partners, giving them better savings, benefits and technology for the insurance they are buying. By investing in such partnerships, we are making a significant impact on the careers of driver-partners, who are integral to our mission of mobility for a billion Indians," added Pranay.

"We are pleased to tie up with Ola, an Industry disruptor that has set benchmarks in its services to customers and has transformed the lives of Indian commuters. This tie-up is aimed at providing Ola's driver partners a one-stop solution for all their motor insurance requirements, including value added services," said Chief Technical Officer- Motor Insurance, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Vijay Kumar.

The motor insurance will not only provide a cover for accidents, but will also insure theft of vehicles as well as damage due to natural and man-made calamities.

It will also provide a personal accident cover of Rs. two lakh to the driver partner. The two companies' partnership in creating high customer value will also reflect through additional services beyond insurance like 24 x 7 roadside assistance (1800 103 5858), which will include towing facilities, medical assistance etc. for the drivers.

In the past two years, Ola has announced several social and financial benefits for its drivers. The company recently announced its partnership with Indifi to offer personal loans to its drivers.

Earlier in 2014, Ola had set aside a fund of Rs. 100 crore towards investment in the driver ecosystem to help nurture them as entrepreneurs.

Prior to that, Ola had launched 'Ola Pragati' in partnership with leading financial institutions like SBI to offer a tailor-made financing program to help drivers to take loans at lower rates and repay on a daily basis as against EMIs.
A five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan, which arrived here yesterday to probe the deadly terrorist attack on the Pathankot Air Force Base, will visit the Investigation Agency (NIA) headquarter on Monday.

According to sources, the JIT comprises of Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) AIG Rai Tahir as convener, Intelligence Bureau Lahore Deputy Director General Azim Arshad, Lt. Col Tanvir Ahmed of the ISI, Lt, Col Irfan Mirza of MI and Gujranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

The team would visit Pathankot on March 29.

The NIA investigators are expected to seek details on arrests in Pakistan and the action it has taken on the basis of intercepted telephone call records handed over by NSA Ajit Doval to his Pakistani counterpart, Lieutenant General Nasir Janjua.

This is for the first time in over two -and- a- half decades that Pakistan will be joining investigations in a terror attack, which was executed by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militants.

The Indian authorities are still working on modalities authorities. As of now, it is said that they will not go by road and will only fly to Pathankot.

Reports state that the team's movement would be restricted only to the area of the engagement between security forces and JeM terrorists.

On January 2, terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station, part of the Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force.

Four terrorists were killed and two security personnel were martyred in the gun battle.
The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen's visa for allegedly violating certain provisions of the Foreigners Act.

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) had earlier approached the apex court to cancel Nasreen's visa for violating several laws like the Foreigners Act, 1946 and Foreign Orders, 1948, after the Delhi High Court rejected this plea in September 2015.

Nasreen's visa was in August last year extended for a year by the Union Home Ministry, thereby permitting her to stay in India till August 2016.

The decision was reportedly taken following an intervention of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh as Taslima had requested the government to further extend her visa.

Nasreen had left Bangladesh in 1992 due to death threats from Islamic fundamentalists who alleged that her work, especially 'Lajja' meant to insult their religion.

She has been living in exile since 1994.
The United States has condemned the appalling terror attack in Lahore, Pakistan, terming it as 'cowardly', and vowed to work with Islamabad to defeat those sowing terror in the country.

"This heinous attack in a crowded park in Lahore has killed dozens of innocent civilians and left scores injured," National Security Council spokesman Ned Price said in a White House statement, reports the Dawn.

Price added that U.S. will continue to work with partners in Pakistan and across the region efforts to root out the scourge of terrorism.
The Congress Party on Monday questioned the inclusion of an ISI officer in the Pakistan Joint Investigation Team (JIT) that is visiting India to probe the January 2016 terrorist attack on the Pathankot Air Force Base.

"Pakistan has not provided a letter rogatory for the visit of the JIT team, without it there is no guarantee of prosecution. One is forced to wonder what the investigation all about is. Why is an officer of the infamous ISI of Pakistan a part of the JIT? The role of the dreaded terrorist organisation -Jaish-e-Mohammad, its chief Maulana Masood Azhar, his brother Abdul Rauf, who was one of the handlers of Pathankot terror attack is well-known and widely accepted. Despite this, Pakistan Government till today has taken no action either against Jaish-e-Mohammad in terms of banning it or in terms of arresting Maulana Masood Azhar or his brother or the other handler Kashif Jaan," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told the media here.

"Unfettered access being provided to them (Pakistan JIT) and also red carpet welcome accorded by the Indian government. It raises serious question with regard to judicial propriety and genuine apprehensions vis-a-vis compromising on security. Serious questions are also being raised about Modi government's U-turn in terms of segregation of state and non-state actors in Pakistan, who are indulging in rampant and senseless export of terror into India on an everyday basis, causing serious and irreparable loss of civilian and military lives," he added.

Surjewala further stated that the BJP Government must need to evaluate and reflect upon and answer some of the genuine apprehensions in mind of security experts, as also, people of the country.

"Prima facie it appears to be a case of an accused investigating himself. Secondly, by allowing a Pakistani investigation team to visit and investigate. BJP Government has for the first time distinguished and therefore recognized that Pakistani establishment does not have a role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in context to Pathankot terror attack," he said.

Currently, the meeting between the Investigation Agency (NIA) officials and a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) from Pakistan is currently underway at the NIA headquarter.

The team would visit Pathankot on March 29.

According to sources, the JIT comprises of Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) AIG Rai Tahir as convener, Intelligence Bureau Lahore Deputy Director General Azim Arshad, Lt. Col Tanvir Ahmed of the ISI, Lt, Col Irfan Mirza of MI and Gujranwala CTD Investigating Officer Shahid Tanveer.

On January 2, terrorists attacked the Pathankot Air Force Station, part of the Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force.

Four terrorists were killed and two security personnel were martyred in the gun battle.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry has issued extensive directives to the States producing cotton to check the adverse affect of white fly on cotton. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has given these directives in view the likely menace to the crop of cotton in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan from white fly. White fly had inflicted tremendous damage to cotton last year in Punjab and Haryana.

To save crop of cotton from the likely menace of white fly, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has taken various preventive measures. Elaborate assessment and analysis has been carried out about the loss inflicted last year.

The sowing process of cotton is set in, in the beginning of April in the States of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. Central Cotton Research Regional Centre, Sirsa (Haryana) has recently held a meeting in which officials of the Ministry of Agriculture, Scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and senior officials of Departments of Agriculture from Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan reviewed the preventive measures to check the menace of white fly.

After the review, the Government of India has forwarded extensive directives to the States of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The directives say that the sowing process may be carried out within the precincts of scheduled timeframe, only recommended seeds might be utilized, close watch might be kept on the movement of pests and timely sprinkling to check its spread. Indian Council of Agricultural Research has also provided a list of the pests resist seeds 4for the farmers. This year emphasis is being given on the timely sowing of cotton.

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CMI rose 1.72% to Rs 302.40 at 10:24 IST on BSE after the company said that a meeting of its board of directors will be held on 30 March 2016, to consider the merger of wholly owned subsidiary, CMI Energy India with the company.

The announcement was made after market hours on Wednesday, 23 March 2016. The stock market was closed on Thursday, 24 March 2016 and Friday, 25 March 2016 due to holidays.

Meanwhile, the S&P BSE Sensex was down 72.68 points or 0.29% at 25,264.88.

On BSE, so far 4,439 shares were traded in the counter as against average daily volume of 59,468 shares in the past one quarter. The stock hit a high of Rs 303 and a low of Rs 297 so far during the day. The stock had hit a record high of Rs 423.90 on 27 January 2016. The stock had hit a 52-week low of Rs 85 on 13 May 2015. The stock had underperformed the market over the past one month till 23 March 2016, declining 9.11% compared with the Sensex's 8.23% rise. The scrip had also underperformed the market in past one quarter, sliding 23.32% as against Sensex's 1.98% fall.

The small-cap company has equity capital of Rs 13.38 crore. Face value per share is Rs 10.

CMI's net profit rose 139.3% to Rs 4.81 crore on 80.6% growth in net sales to Rs 66.44 crore in Q3 December 2015 over Q3 December 2014.

CMI is engaged in manufacturing of special type of cables as per national/international specifications to meet the critical requirements of its customers.

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Worth Rs 623 crore

Hindustan Construction Company has been awarded two contract worth Rs 623 crore in the hydro sector and tunneling sector. The first order is of Rs 456 crore from the Tangsibji Hydro Energy of Bhutan while the second order is of Rs 167 crore from JKSPDC. With these orders, the Company's order intake in FY 2015-16 has reached Rs 5778 crore. Besides the Company is the lowest bidder in 4 projects worth Rs 3677 crore. The combined order backlog is likely to cross Rs 21000 crore in FY 2015-16.

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Not a single bid from mutual funds

The Rs 450-crore initial public offer (IPO) of Infibeam Incorporation received tepid response from institutional investors. The IPO received good response from the non-institutional investors (NII) category. The NII category was subscribed 2.23 times and the retail investors' category was subscribed 1.31 times. The Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs) category was subscribed 86% or 0.86 times. Overall, the IPO was subscribed 1.11 times. The bidding for the IPO ended on Wednesday, 23 March 2016.

Within the QIB category, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) put in bids for a total of 53.40 lakh shares, domestic financial institutions put in bids for a total of 26.77 lakh shares and others put in bids for 11,560 shares. There was not a single bid from mutual funds for the IPO. A total of 93.75 lakh shares were reserved for the QIB category as a whole.

Infibeam Incorporation, the first e-commerce company to tap the capital market through an IPO, had set Rs 360-432 per share price band for the IPO. The proceeds of the IPO will be used for expansion of business, which includes setting up a cloud data center, setting up 75 additional logistics centres, purchase of software and purchase of property for shifting of the registered and corporate offices of the company.

Promoted by Ajit Mehta, Jayshree Mehta, Vishal Mehta and Malav Mehta, Infibeam Incorporation is an e-commerce company focused on developing an integrated and synergistic e-commerce business model. It owns and operates the Infibeam BuildaBazaar (BaB) e-commerce marketplace, which provides cloud-based, modular and customizable digital solutions and other value added services to enable merchants to set up online storefronts. The BaB Marketplace enables merchants to access customers across multiple sales channels and provide cost-effective marketing and distribution solutions. As of 31 December 2015, the BaB Marketplace had 48,724 registered merchants, which increased at a CAGR of 272.95% from 350 registered merchants as of 31 March 2012.

Infibeam Incorporation also operates Infibeam.com, a multi-category e-retail website primarily focused on fast moving product categories. The e-retail business strategically follows an asset light inventory model.

From the net proceeds of the IPO, the company has earmarked Rs 235.20 crore for setting up a Tier III data center and for purchase of property for shifting of the registered and corporate offices of the company at the location of the proposed Tier III data center in Ahmedabad. The company proposes to invest Rs 37.50 crore from the net proceeds of the IPO for setting up additional 75 logistics centres in 70 cities in India. Infibeam currently has 12 logistics centres strategically located in 11 cities across the country.

The company proposes to spend Rs 67 crore from the net proceeds of the IPO for purchase of certain software from third parties for setting up a software platform for providing mobile ad framework which includes customer targeting based on mobile criteria such as device, operating system, carrier or features of the device.

Based on consolidated financial performance, Infibeam Incorporation reported net profit of Rs 6.57 crore on revenue from operations of Rs 171.26 crore for six months ended 30 September 2015. The company reported a net loss of Rs 9.78 crore on revenue from operations of Rs 288.27 crore for the year ended 31 March 2015.

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FICCI announces the formation of a dedicated 'FICCI Consumer Vertical'

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution on the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day signed an MoU with FICCI on the six point partnership agenda during the mega event organized by MoCA. The event was chaired by Shri Ram Vilas Paswan, Minister of Consumer Affairs, Govt. of India along with the Secretary, MoCA, Shri C Viswanathan. The MoU envisages various activities towards which industry associations and their members would endeavor to work for the welfare of the consumers. This was the vision of the Minister Shri Paswan which he shared with all the industry associations during the first meeting convened by him on the subject on 12th January 2016. Since then, FICCI has been actively working along with MoCA towards this cause.

Shri Ram Vilas Paswan congratulated the industry associations and industry members to have joined hands with the Government towards the agenda of safeguarding consumers' interest. He further said that it is heartening to know that industry is as much concerned about consumers as the Government and would urge them to work for the welfare of their consumers.

On the occasion, Mr. Anil Rajput, Co-Chair FICCI Consumer Vertical appreciated Government's initiative of encouraging partnership with industry for consumer welfare activities and said 'These collaborative efforts between Industry & Government are bound to strengthen consumer trust'. He further stated FICCI has always been working dedicatedly towards the cause of the consumers along with its industry members and would continue to work in cooperation with the Government in various areas to enhance consumer protection and awareness.

Following are the key initiatives finalized under the six point partnership agenda:

(i) Jointly develop and endeavor to implement amongst all members of the association, a self-regulated code of fair business practices with the consumer at its heart; (ii) Encourage all members of the association to partner with the National Consumer helpline and State Consumer Helplines on grievance redressal. (iii) Launch joint consumer awareness, education and training programmes under the Jago Grahak Jago campaign. (iv) Work towards earmarking of CSR funds for consumer awareness and protection activities from each member industry annually. (v) Establish a Consumer Affairs division/vertical in the industry body with a dedicated team to address consumer related issues. (vi) Initiate advocacy action against unfair trade practices and preventing fake, counterfeit and sub-standard products and services to enhance consumer protection through enhanced vigilance and innovative outreach.

This is noteworthy that FICCI has announced the formation of a 'Consumer Vertical' which would aim to strengthen the trust between the industry and consumers. The Consumer Vertical is to be chaired by Mr. L Mansingh, Former Secretary, Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Co-Chaired by Mr. Anil Rajput, ITC. It is currently composed of 40 members from across various consumer facing businesses like FMCG, Consumer Durables, Education, Health, Retail, E-Commerce, Food processing and Textiles to name a few.

To spread awareness among consumers FICCI is placing advertisements on TV Channels on their rights and good practices under 'Jago Grahak Jago' initiative. Two such advertisements were showcased at the event. FICCI is also working towards popularizing the National Consumer Helpline amongst all of its members and is encouraging them for the convergence mechanism.

FICCI is committed towards further propagating it by inviting IIPA representatives to regular meetings with industry to educate them on NCH and its functioning.

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NTPC announced on 25 March 2016 that the unit-4 of 195 megawatts (MW) of Muzaffarpur Thermal Power Station of Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam, a subsidiary company of NTPC has been commissioned on 24 March 2016. With this, the total installed capacity of Muzzafarpur Thermal Power Station has become 610 MW and the total installed capacity of NTPC group has become 45993 MW. The market remained closed on 24 and 25 March 2016 on account of holidays.

Tata Motors issued clarification after market hours on Wednesday, 23 March 2016 that workmen at its Sanand plant in Gujarat have called off the strike and resumed duty from 23 March 2016 and normalcy has been restored. Sanand is one of company's six plants in India and manufactures Nano and new hatchback car, Tiago. The company issued clarification after news report suggesting around 422 permanent workers had gone on strike at Sanand from 22 February 2016, demanding the re-instatement of 28 suspended workers.

DLF turns ex-dividend today, 28 March 2016 for interim dividend of Rs 2 per share for the year ending 31 March 2016 (FY 2016).

Bharat Heavy Electricals (Bhel) announced on 25 March 2016 that it has commissioned 600 MW coal-based thermal power plant at the upcoming 1200 MW Singareni Thermal Power Project located in Adilabad district in Telangana.

ITC announced on 24 March 2016 that it has acquired the entire equity share capital of Technico Agri Sciences, India, from Technico Pty Limited, Australia, thus Technico Agri Sciences becoming a direct subsidiary of the company with effect from 22 March 2016. Prior to such acquisition, Technico Agri Sciences was a wholly owned subsidiary of Technico Pty Limited, which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC.

Reliance Communications (RCom) announced that based on the good progress made so far, it has extended the exclusivity period with Maxis Communications Berhad (MCB) and Sindya Securities and Investments, the shareholders of Aircel by 60 days to 22 May 2016, to consider the potential combination of the Indian wireless business of RCom and Aircel. The deal if happens could mutually derive the expected substantial benefits of in-country consolidation, including opex and capex synergies and revenue enhancement. The discussions are non-binding in nature. Any transaction is subject to completion of due diligence, definitive documentation and regulatory, shareholders' and other third party approvals. Hence, there is no certainty that any transaction will result. The announcement was made after market hours on Wednesday, 23 March 2016.

CMI announced that a meeting of the board of directors of the company will be held on 30 March 2016, to consider the merger of wholly owned subsidiary, CMI Energy India (formerly known as General Cable Energy India), with the company. The announcement was made after market hours on Wednesday, 23 March 2016.

Gujarat Fluorochemicals announced on 25 March 2016 that Inox Wind Infrastructure Services, a step down subsidiary of the company acquired 100% shares of Sarayu Wind Power (Kondapuram) with effect from 25 March 2016. Sarayu Wind Power (Kondapuram) has become step down subsidiary of the company after the acquisition.

Natco Pharma announced on Sunday, 27 March 2016 that an inspection was conducted by the United States Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) in two of its manufacturing facilities recently namely in the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) manufacturing facility at Manali, near Chennai, and the Pharmaceutical Formulations facility at Kothur, near Hyderabad, during early February and March, 2016, respectively. The company has received 483 observations for both facilities and believes them to be of minor in nature. The company has already sent response and compliance report for these observations and believes that there would be no adverse impact to its current or future pipeline products coming from these facilities.

Kesar Petroproducts announced on Saturday, 26 March 2016 that a meeting of the Board of Directors of the company will be held on 31 March 2016, to consider and allot equity shares upon conversion of warrants earlier issued to preferential basis.

Balasore Alloys announced on Saturday, 26 March 2016 that a meeting of the committee for preferential issue of warrants of the Board of Directors will be held on 31 March 2016 for allotment of 80 lakh equity shares of Rs 5 each at price of Rs 17 including premium of Rs 12 per shares in lieu of 80 lakh convertible warrants to the promoters on preferential basis, pursuant to the authority given by the shareholders in the Annual General Meeting held on 29 September 2015.

Himadri Chemicals & Industries announced on Saturday, 26 March 2016 that the stakeholders relationship committee of the Board of Directors of the company at its' meeting held on 25 March 2016 has allotted 3.26 crore equity shares at a price of Rs19 per share aggregating to Rs 62.08 crore on preferential basis to the promoter group company.

Kaya announced on Saturday, 26 March 2016 that Kaya Middle East, DMCC, a foreign subsidiary of Kaya, along with its local partner has additionally acquired 10% of beneficial interest in Iris Medical Centre LLC situated at Abu Dhabi (IRIS) through Memorandum of Assosication & Assignment of shares of IRIS on 24 March 2016. Thus, Kaya Middle East DMCC now holds 85% beneficial interest in IRIS.

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For treatment of metastatic Castration Resistant Prostrate Cancer (mCRPC)

Panacea Biotec introduces the indigenously developed high quality oncology product, CABAPAN (Cabazitaxel Injection), for treatment of metastatic Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC).

CABAPAN has been developed by Company's State of the art Global Research and Development Center at Mumbai and manufactured at the Company's production facility complying with global cGMP, at Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.

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With easy availability of gadgets, use of superior technology, rising internet speed and access to analyst information, there is steep rise of over 76% of online trading among the young investors in the last couple of years as a primary source of additional income reveals the ASSOCHAM survey.

According to the survey, more and more youngsters are adapting this quick, efficient and hassle free option of stock trading. Around 60 to 75% rise in trading since the inception of online trading account India, especially amongst the youth investors. Be it a mom to the business professional anyone can be a part of this multi-billion stock market of India and trade anytime, anywhere and anyhow through Online Trading.

In its countrywide survey conducted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) under the aegis of its Social Development Foundation, reveals that the online share trade industry is growing by 160% year-on-year, the value of all trades executed through the internet has grown more than ten times in two years.

Major metropolitan cities in which respondents were interviewed include Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Ahmadabad, Cochin, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Indore, Patna, Pune, Chandigarh and Dehradun and it was observed that there has been a steep rise in the use of online share trading with the upcoming technology platform for continuous trading. ASSOCHAM used random data to choose investors representing various age groups, occupation, gender, marital status and annual income range.

According to the findings of the survey, online share trading has become a major fascination by large number of young energetic and intelligent population mostly professionals or unprofessional and employed or unemployed.

Stock trading is the new age thrive, every youngsters are looking toward to improve the income levels. Online trading is the most profitable business, which just requires knowledge of the trading concept, said majority of the respondents.

The survey further reveals that young generation is very analytical, quick and responsive to the every changing market scenario, adds the survey.

With an online trading account India, you can access your mutual funds, stocks, IPOs, equities and much more avoiding the need for multiple brokers, multiple bank accounts and multiple folios. There is also no need to call an agent and one of the biggest benefits of online investment is the complete privacy, adds the 78% of the respondents.

The knowledge of basic trading concepts is enough to get youngsters started. Analyst feeds are also abundantly available online and that helps make trading easier. It is interesting to note that a majority of young investors prefer the futures and options or F&O segment to the spot market, adds the survey.

Online trading account India is considered as a key instrument to improve earnings amongst the youth who are smart, cautious and pick an easy go medium, as it does not require any complicated procedures to carry out trades. Men and women both trade online almost neck to neck in their race to earn high gains with less pain.

Private sector employees who wish to secure their future financial resources form biggest percentage of those trading online. Self employed professionals and public sector employees also form a large chunk of those trading online with most young investors focusing upon the market derivates, permutation and combinations, stats and graphs to extract handful returns from the markets, highlights the survey.

The lagging brokerages are now forced to improve their operational costs and age old lagging trade practices in order to be successful. One of the main obstacles to further development of online trading is telecom infrastructure, which is forcing most online retail brokerages to offer telephone trading as a backup, said Mr. Rawat.

Majority of the respondents doing internet trading belong to the age group of 18 to 23 years followed 24 to 29 years.

Similarly, people belong to 30 to 35 age groups. Whereas, 8% people are each from the age group of 36 to 41 years and above 42 years age. Out of 2,500 respondents, 69 % are male and 31% are females.

Nearly, 32% of the people are doing job in private organizations and only 16% are having their own business. Whereas, 20% people are government employees and only 12% are professionals. Over 56% people are unmarried and 44% are married in the collected sample, adds the survey.

In the poll 36% people have an annual income range of 0 to 4 Lakhs. And 32% people have income between 5 to 8 Lakhs. Similarly, 16 % and 8% people have an income range of about 9 to 12 Lakhs and 13 to 15 Lakhs respectively, highlights the survey.

In the survey, it is found that majority of young investors (64%) like to trade in futures and options (F&O) and it shows there is a need to create awareness among investors regarding profitability of investment in futures and options, adds the survey.

The emerging scenario makes it necessary for the broking companies to identify investor's perception of level service quality, which strongly influences the investor's behavioral intentions. This would facilitate the process of categorizing, determining and measuring, controlling and thereby improving the investor inclination/interest in online trading.

With brokerage firms tries to find level of satisfaction of investors with broking firms by extending several incentives and concessional service charges to attract the investors.

The survey was able to target corporate employees from 18 broad sectors, with maximum share contributed by employees from IT/ITes sector (17 per cent).

After IT/ITeS sector, contribution of the survey respondents from financial services is 11 per cent. It includes employees engaged in banking sector, stock brokerage house, insurance sector, financial consultancy and chartered accountants.

Employees working in engineering and telecom sector contributed 9 per cent and 8 per cent respectively in the questionnaire. Nearly 6 per cent of the employees belonged from market research/KPO and media background each. Management, FMCG and Infrastructure sector employees share is 5 per cent each, in the total survey.

Respondents from power and real estate sector contributed 4 per cent each. Employees from education and food& beverages sector provided a share of 3 per cent each. Advertising, manufacturing and textiles employees offered a share of 2 per cent each in the survey results.

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Washington DC, March 23, 2016-The World Bank (IBRD, Aaa/AAA) today priced a USD 3 billion 4-year global bond that matures on March 30, 2020. The transaction builds on the positive sentiment for the World Bank in the markets following the 3-year Global priced in January and the 5-year Global priced in March this year.

The orderbook closed in excess of USD 3.75 billion with 69 accounts participating, enabling the World Bank to move inside of initial price guidance to price a successful USD 3 billion global transaction.

Joint lead managers for this global bond are Bank of America Merrill Lynch, HSBC and TD Securities.

The 4-year transaction has a coupon of 1.375% per annum payable semi-annually and a maturity date of March 30, 2020. It offers investors a yield of 1.454% per annum (semi-annual), equivalent to 40.85 basis points over the 1% UST due March 2019.

"This World Bank benchmark bond offers investors much needed stability in times when safety, liquidity and performance are at the top of the priority list. We are grateful for the strong support we received for this transaction from investors all over the globe. It shows the high level of confidence the market has in the World Bank and investors' desire to support the World Bank's mission of promoting sustainable development in our borrowing member countries.

We also want to thank our market-making partners for delivering such a successful transaction." said ArunmaOteh, Vice President and Treasurer, World Bank.

Asia 50% Central Banks/Official Institutions 59%Europe 27% Bank Treasuries/Private Banks / Corporates 24%Americas 23% Asset Managers/Insurance/Pension Funds 17%

Issuer rating: Aaa /AAAMaturity: 4-yearAmount: USD 3 billionSettlement date: March 30 2016Coupon: 1.375% per annumCoupon payment dates: Paid semi-annually on 30 March and 30 September of each yearMaturity date: 30-Mar-20Issue price: 99.69%Issue yield: 1.454% per annum (s.a)Listing: Luxembourg Stock ExchangeClearing systems: Fedwire, Euroclear, ClearstreamISIN: US459058FA69Joint lead managers: Bank of America Merrill Lynch, HSBC, TD Securities

Joint lead manager quotes:

"Another fantastic outing by the World Bank team. This transaction was beautifully timed and secured an exceptionally diverse order book in a less traditional benchmark maturity with no new issue premium" said Adrien de Naurois, BofAML Syndicate

"World Bank have a great track record in spotting market opportunities, targeting previously untapped pockets of demand. Investors are rarely offered 4-year fixed rate bonds in benchmark size so they seized the chance to buy a Global bond from a premier name with guaranteed liquidity and an attractive pick-up over 3 year comparables " said Paul J. Bye, Managing Director, Global Head of Public Sector Syndicate, HSBC.

"This is an outstanding transaction which ticks all the boxes: tight pricing, large size and a very high quality orderbook. I have never seen a 4-year transaction reach this kind of size which is another impressive achievement from the World Bank" said Salvatore Aloisi, Head of Origination & Syndication (Europe), TD Securities.

The present transaction is consistent with the World Bank's longstanding practice of deploying its franchise as an issuer in the international capital markets to offer investor's high-quality, liquid instruments. This approach has direct benefits for World Bank member countries as well, since as a cooperative institution it is able to fund its activities as a provider of financial services to its members on highly attractive terms.

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Ten Indonesian crewmen were reportedly kidnapped by terrorist group Abu Sayyaf in southern Philippines, military sources said on Monday.

The time of the kidnapping was not confirmed but the sources learned of it on Monday afternoon, Xinhua news agency reported

They said that one of the victims aboard a tugboat called their superiors, saying they were being held captive by Abu Sayyaf.

"One of the crew called a Taiwanese landline to say they are being held by the armed group Abu Sayyaf and that they (captors) were demanding ransom," an official said.

The tugboat from Indonesia was en route to Manila when it was hijacked.

The official said authorities also found the tugboat at Languyan island, Tawi-tawi province.

"It was moored, meaning it has crew," he said.
At least 115 Al-Shabaab militants were killed and 110 arrested in four days of fighting with security forces in Galmudug state of Somalia, the state's president said on Monday.

President of Galmudug state of Somalia Abdikarim Hussein Guled said the intense fighting ended on Sunday after some of the remaining terrorists fled into the rural areas of the state, Xinhua reported.

"Galmudug forces after intense fighting with Al-Shabaab militia for the last four days are pleased to see the end of this fighting that killed 115 militias and captured 110 militants," Guled said.

The president lauded the security forces' efforts and their swift response to conclude the fighting against terrorist groups.

Guled reiterated the commitment of his administration to wipe out terrorist groups in Galmudug areas as well as lending hand to other areas in order to eliminate all threats posed by terrorists.

He said that his administration was ready to share intelligence and information and will fully cooperate, as security was paramount to the stability of the country.

Guled noted that Al-Shabaab's strategy was to find bases in northern regions including Puntland and Somaliland areas that are stable.

"The victory that Galmudug forces defeated Al-Shabaab for the last four days and the recent victory in Puntland requires our immediate and collective action to intensify the fight against terrorists in order to stop them re-grouping and finding hide-outs that they can use to plan terrorist attacks," he said.
Afghanistan has condemned the suicide bombing that ripped through a park full of Christian revellers in Lahore city, capital of the Pakistan's Punjab province, said the country's presidential palace on Monday.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, people and government of Pakistan," Xinhua cited the Afghan presidential palace as saying in a tweet.

"We reiterate that the scourge of terrorism has no boundaries and must be confronted jointly through increased regional cooperation," the palace said.

A suicide bomb ripped through Gate No.1 of Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in Lahore on Sunday evening, which left at least 72 people killed and over 250 injured, Pakistani officials said on Monday.

A Pakistani Taliban splinter group has claimed responsibility of the attack, saying it deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.
A number of terror suspects were arrested across Pakistan following the Lahore suicide bombing that killed 72 people as the army decided to launch anti-terrorist operations across Punjab.

The army and Pakistan Rangers on Monday vowed to conduct "a widespread operation" in Punjab to target militants, their facilitators and hideouts, military sources told Dawn.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by army chief General Raheel Sharif.

Military spokesman Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said a number of suspects had been nabbed across Punjab.

A number of "suspected terrorists and facilitators" were arrested in raids conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan following the ghastly Lahore suicide attack on Sunday evening.

At least 72 people were killed and more than 300 injured when a suicide bomber exploded himself in a parking lot outside the main gate of Gulshan-e-Iqbal park when it was packed with families on Easter Sunday holiday.

Most of the dead were women and children who had poured into the park in large numbers to enjoy its many attractions including giant swings, joy rides and boating for children.

The park usually receives large crowds on weekends.

The wounded who are still being treated are warded in Jinnah Hospital, Lahore General Hospital and Sheikh Zayed Hospital. One official, Abdullah Khan Sumbla, put the death toll at 65. But others said 72 had died.

The military said a huge cache of arms and ammunition were recovered in the raids.

Police said the Lahore suicide bomber had been identified as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of Muzzafargarh.

Three members of his family have been taken away for interrogation, Dawn reported.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, chairing a high-level security meeting in Lahore, called for more pro-active coordination among law enforcement and intelligence agencies against terrorism, Radio Pakistan reported.

He said all provinces must step up intelligence-based operations against terrorists.
Abu Dhabi, March 28 (IANS/WAM) The General Command of the Arab Coalition Forces in Yemen has announced a prisoner swap as part of a truce announced on March 8.

A statement issued by the General Command of the Coalition Forces said that nine Saudi detainees were handed over to coalition authorities in exchange of 109 Yemeni citizens, who were arrested near the southern border of Saudi Arabia.

The coalition added that it welcomes a continued truce as part of "Operation Restoring Hope".

The statement also expressed hope for a truce to be reached in conflict zones inside Yemen to allow relief aid to reach all parts of the country, and support UN efforts to reach a political solution.

--IANS/WAM

ksk/vt
The Tripura state assembly on Monday witnessed bedlam over assassination of former Tripura health minister Bimal Sinha and his brother in 1998, with the opposition Congress demanding a fresh probe in it.

The pandemonium started after Speaker Ramendra Chandra Debnath rejected an adjournment motion moved by opposition leader Sudip Roy Barman. The house had to be adjourned twice due to the uproar in the house.

The adjournment motion sought to discuss the judicial inquiry commission's report on the assassination of the former minister and his brother 18 years ago.

The report of the inquiry commission, headed by Justice (retd) M.A. Yusuf of the Calcutta High Court, submitted before the government in June 2000, was presented in the state assembly on March 23 following the Tripura High Court order.

"To hush up the real truth, the Left Front government has not cooperated with the inquiry commission. The state government, headed by Chief Minister Manik Sarkar that time, had rejected the Congress' demand to probe the assassination by the CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation)," Barman told reporters after the adjournment of the house.

"The Yusuf Commission identified 27 accused relating to the killing, but none was punished so far," he said.

"Surprisingly, the state government filed repeated petitions before the sessions court, the high court and the Supreme Court to let off three heinous criminals who were among the 27 accused. However, all the courts rejected the state government's appeal," he added.

Demanding a fresh inquiry into the former minister's killing, Barman accompanied by former opposition leader Ratan Lal Nath, state party president Birajit Sinha and other leaders alleged that Sinha was killed as he wanted to be the chief minister.

Referring to various comments of the commission, the Congress leader said if the CBI had probed the murder, many things would have been exposed against the ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M ) and its leadership.

According to the report of the Yusuf Commission, neither the state government nor Tripura Police was responsible for Sinha's killing. He was solely responsible for his and his brother's killing.

Sinha and his brother were shot dead by proscribed National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) on March 31, 1998, at Kamalpur in northern Tripura.

The Commission in its findings said: "Minister (Sinha) used to instruct his security personnel to remain far away from him whenever he went to meet the collaborators of the militants. He never allowed his security and escort personnel to come nearer to him or to accompany him... this he did for the release of his brother Bikram Sinha from the clutches of the militants."

The slain minister's younger brother had been kidnapped by the NLFT weeks before the sensational killings.

The Yusuf Commission was appointed by the Left Front government in 1998 and submitted its report on January 31, 2000.

Following a writ petition filed by advocate Kalyani Roy, who heads the state Congress' women's wing, the Tripura High Court recently asked the state government to publish the report.
Belgian cyclist Antoine Demoitie died after he was hit by a motorbike following a fall during the Gent-Wevelgem race, local police has said.

Police said on Sunday an inquiry is going on to "determine the circumstances", reports Xinhua.

Demoitie, 25, was rushed to the hospital after the accident in Sainte-Marie-Cappel, northern France where he was admitted to an intensive care unit due to serious conditions.

Sunday's Gent-Wevelgem race saw cyclists battle strong winds as they tackled 10 climbs over a 243-km route, including two ascents of the Kemmelberg.

Former Belgian national champion Jens Debusschere was also hospitalised after he sustained a concussion following a heavy crash, his Lotto-Soudal team said.

The race was won by Slovakia's Peter Sagan.
Over two dozen Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators of Uttarakhand arrived to a grand welcome at the Jolly Grant airport here on Monday.

Hundreds of BJP activists massed at the airport exit to welcome the legislators, showering flowers and raising slogans.

The legislators had been camping in Jaipur, Gurgaon and New Delhi for the last one week since a political crisis erupted in Uttarakhand.

State BJP president Teerath Singh Rawat said after his arrival that the state unit was thankful to President Pranab Mukherjee for signing the proclamation of central rule in the hill state.

"We are very thankful to Rashtrapatiji that he acted as the true custodian of the constitution," he added.

Other legislators targetted former chief minister Harish Rawat for drawing Prime Minister Narendra Modi into the issue and said he was doing so to deflect attention from his failures, poor governance and corruption.

In a related development, Harish Rawat met Governor K.K. Paul along with Congress legislators at the Raj Bhawan, an official said.

"We have come here to show our strength and protest against the decision taken against our government," Bajpur legislator Yashpal Arya said, adding the Rawat government should have been given time to prove its majority.
Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's office was on Monday flooded with phone calls from across the world wanting to know the fate of Catholic priest Tom Uzhunnallil who was abducted by the Islamic State terrorist group in Yemen, an official said.

The official who did not wish to be named told IANS that various agencies like the UN, Vatican and the FBI were among those working hard to rescue Uzhunnallil and were confident of bringing back the priest from his kidnappers.

"We have various other sources in Yemen, Aden and other Catholic institutions and we are confident of his release. All the calls that I am getting are from the international media and well wishers of the priest.

"Till this moment, we have no reason to disbelieve our sources and our mission is on the right track," the official said.

Chandy is reaching Delhi later on Monday and is expected to call on External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

On Saturday morning, Sushma Swaraj had tweeted that they were trying to rescue Uzhunnallil.

"Fr Tom Uzhunnallil - an Indian national from Kerala was abducted by a terror group in Yemen. We r making all efforts to secure his release," she wrote.

Earlier this month, militants barged into a care home for the elderly set up by Mother Teresa in Yemen's Aden in 1992, and shot dead many people, including four nuns of the Missionaries of Charity, among whom one was from India.

The militants abducted the Kerala priest and there has been no information about him ever since.
China's pension fund may begin investing in the nation's share markets, a move that will channel approximately 600 billion yuan ($92 billion) into the equity market and likely improve its liquidity, the media reported on Monday.

The target date comes after China's State Council published an investment guideline that would allow the country's pension fund to invest in more diversified and risker products, with the maximum proportion of investments in stocks and equities set at 30 percent of total net assets, the People's Daily reported.

China's pension fund, which accounts for approximately 90 percent of the country's total social security fund pool, had net assets of 3.98 trillion yuan by the end of 2015.

By the end of last year, total investible pension fund nationwide reached approximately 2 trillion yuan, according to data from the ministry of human resources and social security.

According to a survey by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, which polled 3,874 small investors from 219 cities around China, more than 77.5 percent of respondents said they had been anticipating the pension fund investments and that the move will bring a wave of liquidity.

Provinces that have already piloted their local pension funds to be invested in the equity market have reported positive yields. Guangdong province reportedly accrued a combined yield of 17.34 billion yuan from a 100-billion-yuan investment.
A Chinese fugitive, who was on Interpol's list of 100 most-wanted and who spent 17 years in hiding, surrendered in Shanghai, the media reported on Monday.

Zhang Liping, 64, a former president of a running-shoe maker firm in Shanghai who allegedly falsified value-added tax invoices, surrendered to the local police on Sunday, the Shanghai Daily reported.

She fled to Thailand in August 1999 and later hid in Peru.

Zhang's name was placed on an Interpol Red Notice naming 100 people wanted for their involvement in serious corruption-related cases and who had fled overseas.

So far, 25 of the 100 have returned to China.
The Congress on Monday questioned the government's move to give Pakistan's security and intelligence officials access to the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot to probe the January terror attack.

"Pakistan has provided no assurance of action. Yet their team has been allowed to investigate the Pathankot terror attack (in India)," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

Surjewala said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government had not been able to "differentiate between state actors and non state actors" perpetrating anti-India cross-border terror.

"Does the move (of allowing Pakistani investigators in India) imply that the Pakistan (government) has had no involvement in spreading terror in India?" Surjewala asked.

"The prime minister should introspect properly and answer the nation. Is there a guarantee that the team will not favour the terrorists," he said.

Surjewala also questioned the possible outcome of the Pakistani investigation.

"How will the investigation be undertaken? Will the terrorists be handed over to the Indian government or will the cases against them be proceeded in Pakistani courts?"

The five-member Pakistani team arrived here on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack at the Pathankot air base in Punjab. The team will travel to Pathankot on Monday evening and question witnesses there.

According to official sources, the Pakistani team will be given limited access to the Indian airbase where at least seven military personnel were killed after a gun and bomb attack by alleged Pakistani terrorists.

One civilian was also killed in the attack on the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. Six terrorists who had crossed over into Punjab from Pakistan were also killed.

This is for the first time New Delhi has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country.

The access was granted as India hoped that Pakistan will bring to justice the alleged perpetrators, including Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar.
The dismissal of the Harish Rawat government and the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand "is a shameless assault on democracy", the CPI-M said on Monday.

A Communist Party of India-Marxist statement also called it a blatant violation of constitutional norms.

"The fact that the action has taken place a day before the Chief Minister (Harish Rawat) was to test his majority on the floor of the assembly makes this intervention patently illegal and unconstitutional.

"The imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand and the earlier episode in Arunachal Pradesh shows that the (Narendra) Modi government is utilising Article 356 (of the constitution) to topple governments run by the opposition. This should not be allowed.

"While the basic remedy is to scrap Article 356 itself from the constitution, the Supreme Court should take up the (Uttarakhand) matter on a priority basis," it said.
Debutant director Sathish Chandrasekaran says the forthcoming second instalment in the Tamil horror-thriller "Darling" franchise, which releases in cinemas on Friday, taught him a lot about the nitty-gritty of commercial cinema.

"I worked on short films before I got an opportunity to make 'Darling 2', and I learnt a lot about commercial cinema from this experience. When you make short films, you can make it the way you want, and there's some innocence in the way you make them," Sathish told IANS, adding that all of it changes when one starts working on a feature film.

"When it comes to regular feature films, there are so many factors, like budget, casting, marketing and scheduling of shoot, and one needs to take all that into consideration. It's also easy to make a feature film, but the challenge is to release it," he said.

"Darling 2", which stars Kalaiarasan, Rameez, Arjun, Hari and Maya, is not a sequel to "Darling".

"It was producer Gnanavel Raja who suggested we rechristen it to 'Darling 2' as the core plot is similar to 'Darling'. Since our film was also about a group of friends who embark on a journey and deal with paranormal forces, he felt it would be wise to include it in the 'Darling' franchise," Sathish said, and added that to continue a franchise a film need not be a sequel.

"Darling 2" is being released by Gnanavel Raja's Studio Green, and Sathish says the film is scarier than its predecessor.

"Our film is scarier, and it has humour too, woven into the plot seamlessly. The humour will be more situational. For instance, in the film, when two characters are having a serious argument, the way the scene unfolds will evoke laughter," he said.

The film is inspired from events from Sathish's own life.

"It's based on some spooky experiences from two trips I had gone on with my friends. Hari of 'Madras' fame plays my role in the film, and he was phenomenal, especially acting with a stammer and doing full justice to the role," he added.

"Darling 2" is a crowd-funded film, before it was bought by Studio Green.

With the financial support of his family and friends, Sathish managed to shoot the film.
The Delhi government on Monday proposed to allocate Rs.5,259 crore for the health department, a hike of Rs.472 crore over last year's budget.

Announcing the proposal in the budget, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Manish Sisodia said: "The health department is being allocated Rs.5,259 crore. Through the money allocated for the health department, Delhi will get 1,000 mohalla (community) clinics and 150 polyclinics in various parts of the city."

Last year's budget allocation for health stood at Rs.4,787 crore.

He also announced that the Delhi government has planned to add 10,000 additional beds in its various hospitals.

"We have also decided to take buildings in various parts of the city on rent to open 100 mohalla clinics immediately," said Sisodia.
In a major relief for Delhiites, the city government on Monday proposed to reduce VAT on a slew of products, including sweets, namkeens and readymade garments, from 12.5 to five percent.

Announcing the proposal in the Delhi government's budget for financial year 2016-17, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Manish Sisodia said that sweets and namkeens are daily consumable items and needed to be made cheaper.

He also announced reduction in the VAT on marble from 12.5 to five percent.

He announced that VAT on watches costing above Rs.5,000 has been proposed to be reduced from a high of 20 percent to 12.5 percent.

"We tried to bring balance in the rates of goods in Delhi on par with other states to avoid outflow of tax. It was made possible through voluntary compliance, and not through imposition," he said.

Sisodia said that VAT on battery operated e-rickshaws, hybrid vehicles has been proposed to be reduced from 12.5 percent to 5 percent.
A huge fire gutted at least two residential buildings in the UAE city of Ajman on Monday night, with casualties unknown, according to Gulf News.

The fire broke out in the Ajman One residential cluster of 12 towers, close to the border with Sharjah. Fire mainly damaged tower 1.

Officials could not immediately be reached for information on any casualties, but one official said tenants were being evacuated to safety.

The Civil Defence in Ajman city, about 44 km northeast to Dubai, said its operations room received a call about the fire at 9.45 p. m. The Civil Defence, rescue and ambulance teams have rushed to the scene.

Several units battled the huge blaze well into the night. Flames are seen raging while the area has been cordoned off leading to huge traffic jam in Ajman and Sharjah.

The UAE deputy prime minister and minister of interior have rushed to Ajman to follow up on the details of firefighting operations.

Fires in skyscrapers are common in the UAE. On the New Year's Eve, a fire engulfed a 63-story building opposite the world's tallest skyscraper Burj Khalifa.
A fire has swept through Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and one of the last remaining habitats for tigers, a Bangladeshi official said on Monday.

Saidur Rahman, a divisional forest officer, said the fire was spotted on Sunday, Xinhua reported. He said the firefighters had managed to bring the fire under control. Shrubs and bushes got burnt.

A three-member committee has been formed to probe the fire. No casualty has been reported.
A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi blamed the Congress for the closure of 32,000 industries in Assam, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday retorted that the Centre was to blame for the closure of the Cachar paper mill that has affected the livelihood of one lakh people.

Gogoi slammed Modi's "escapist attitude" and said the prime minister had turned a blind eye to the cause of the paper mill, in which production has remained suspended due to shortage of coal.

Modi at a public rally on Sunday near the now-defunct paper mill at Panchgram in Cachar blamed the 60 years of Congress rule at Delhi and Dispur for closure of 32,000 small, big and medium size industries in Assam.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi's escapist attitude has become apparently evident when he put the blame on the Congress for the closure of the Cachar mill, a unit of Hindustan Paper Corporation Limited, which is a central public sector undertaking... the central government is fully responsible for its premature and sudden closure," Gogoi said.

"The NDA government at the Centre has not done anything substantial for the revival of the Cachar paper mill, thereby putting at stake the future of one lakh people directly and indirectly involved in the mill," he said.

The Cachar paper mill, which has a capacity of producing one lakh tonnes of paper annually, uses about 550-600 tonnes of coal from Meghalaya every day. The problem started after the National Green Tribunal ordered a ban on unscientific mining of coal in Meghalaya in May last year.

On Modi's comment that the Congress government in Assam owes an explanation to the people because of the closure of the paper mill, Gogoi asked why the NDA government which was at the helm of affairs does not take steps for the mill's revival.

"The Centre should have taken the matter in right earnest with the NGT or facilitate supply of coal to the mill from other sources instead of depending solely on Meghalaya.

"Without taking any substantive step, the BJP indulged in mud-slinging and is playing with the sentiments of the people of Assam," Gogoi said.

Asking Modi what steps have been taken by the Centre in the last two years for revival of the mill, Gogoi said the prime minister by putting the blame on the Congress was just washing his hands of the responsibility and shedding crocodile tears for Assam.
Internet giant Google is rumoured to include an extra modification of Google Goggles to the official Google Camera app in Android devices for searching information by just taking a picture.

The extra functionality is nothing new but the implementation of Google Goggles technology the search giant already uses.

Google Goggles is an augmented reality (AR) app that allows user to make a search by taking a picture of anything, androidauthority.com reported on Sunday.

For example, to search for the creator of a painting, one can click a picture through Google Goggle app and it will find you the details of the painting from its database.

Goggles can read text in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian and Turkish, and translate it into other languages.

Goggles also works as a barcode/QR code scanner. It can recognise famous landmarks, translate by taking a picture of foreign language text, add contacts by scanning business cards or QR codes, solve Sudoku puzzles and find similar products.

In Google Goggles, one can only search the whole image, which has proven to bring plenty of discrepancies, the report said.

Images often display plenty of distractions, background items and other objects that may throw off a search result.

However, according to the report, there will be a new feature integrated, allowing users to outline the specific areas of the image in order to directly target their searches.

For example, if one wants to find the model number of a Nike shoe in a picture having a lot of other stuff, the user can select that shoe and outline it to focus the search.

Furthermore, it is said this technology has also been tested in "wearable computing devices", suggesting this technology may be incorporated with other products like Google Glass and VR headsets.

Google Goggles was launched in 2009 as a visual search technology app but after a few years the company stopped updating it and it fell by the wayside.

Google may merge this app directly with the camera so it comes incorporated in all phones.
Infrastructure major GVK on Monday announced selling 33 percent of its stake in the Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) to Canadian investment firm Fairfax for Rs.2,149 crore ($321 million).

"The transaction will reduce our debt obligation by Rs.2,300 crore, including interest cost, as our group total debt burden is Rs.25,000 crore," the Mumbai-based company said in a statement here.

The transaction is expected to be completed by middle of this year.

BIAL, which operates the Kempe Gowda international airport at Devanahalli, about 40 km from here, is a public-private consortium, with central and Karnataka governments holding 13 percent each equity stake, while GVK Airport Developers has 43 percent, Siemens Project Ventures GmbH of Germany 26 percent and Flughafen Zurich AG of Switzerland 5 percent.

GVK Power & Infrastructure Ltd's subsidiary Bangalore Airport & Infrastructure Developers Ltd acquired 17 percent equity stake of L&T Infrastructure Development Projects Ltd and 12 percent stake of Zurich airport in 2009-10 and 14 percent from Siemens in 2011-12 to increase its overall stake to 43 percent.

The state-run Airport Authority of India (AAI) represents the central government and state-run Karnataka State Industrial Investment Development Corporation (KSIIDC) represents the state government.

Fairfax financial holdings group is headed by Canadian investor Prem Watsa.

"The disinvestment will deleverage our balance sheet as its proceeds will go to lenders," said GVK group chairman and managing director G.V.K. Reddy.

As the first PPP greenfield project, BIAL operates the country's third business airport under a 30+30 year concession agreement, with a capacity to handle around 15-20 million passengers per annum from one terminal.

"We will partner with Fairfax to expand the airport area with a second terminal and a second runway to handle about 50 million passengers per annum," said Reddy.

G.V.K. Reddy and his son G.V. Sanjya Reddy will continue as co-chairman and managing director of the consortium despite diluting their equity holding to 10 percent.

As a leading commercial aviation operator, the GVK group also operates the Chhatrapati Shivaji international airport in Mumbai.
University of Hyderabad has constituted a committee to hold talks with the agitating students.

According to a notification issued by incharge registrar M. Sudhakar, a seven-member committee has been constituted for negotiations.

"The committee would discuss with the student representatives about the matters that are negotiable from the list of demands submitted by them to the university," said the notification.

The committee, comprising professors from various faculties, will inform the Joint Action Committee for Social Justice and the Students' Union to nominate two members each before starting the dialogue to break the existing impasse.

The committee will submit its report within six weeks, said the registrar.
A court here on Monday granted bail to 25 students and two faculty members of University of Hyderabad even as protest continued on campus and Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao appealed to agitating students to rise above anger and confrontation.

The students and faculty members, arrested last week for ransacking the office of the vice chancellor and for allegedly attacking police while protesting his return after two-month leave, will have to spend another night in jail as the formalities for their release could not be completed on Monday.

Their families and friends are hoping for their release on Tuesday.

The 25th Metropolitan Magistrate's court at Miyapur pronounced the orders on the bail pleas as the Telangana government choose not to oppose the petitions.

The court asked the accused to arrange surety of Rs.5,000 each and appear before Gachibowli police station every week till the final disposal of the case.

Meanwhile, protest continued in the campus over the last week's police crackdown.

Students, sympathetic towards those arrested, boycotted the classes in response to the call for nationwide protest given by the Joint Action Committee of Social Justice, comprising 14 students' organisations.

Raising slogans against the vice chancellor and demanding his removal and arrest, hundreds of students took out a march even as police and university security stepped up vigil to maintain law and order.

Holding placards and raising slogans against RSS, ABVP, the central government and police excesses, the students marched to the main gate and staged a sit-in before dispersing peacefully.

The campus remained closed for outsiders amid fears of a fresh showdown as university authorities had vowed to resume classes despite the boycott call. However, the day passed off without any confrontation.

Meanwhile, Appa Rao on Monday said it was painful to see students and a couple of faculty members spending time in jail and appealed to students to rise above anger and confrontation and desist from violence.

"It's very painful to see some of our students and couple of faculty members from campus spend time in jail. While I wanted to intervene, legal system is beyond our control and jurisdiction.

"I request the students to resist any temptation for violence on campus or anywhere else, as it would not yield any productive outcomes. Please restrain yourself from causing pain to yourself, your parents and the university," said Appa Rao in a written and video appeal.

"You have all other avenues to express yourself. I humbly wish all students & student unions to sit together and resolve issues. I & my team will wholeheartedly support you in this endeavour," he added.

A section of students are demanding his removal and his arrest, holding him responsible for the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

He had proceeded on leave on January 24 after he was named in First Information Report (FIR) booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.

Appa Rao's return on March 22 led to fresh bout of protest and violence with Joint Action Committee of Social Justice refusing to accept him as the head of the institution.

In a related development, the university set up a seven-member panel to hold talks with the agitating students.

"The committee would discuss with the student representatives about the matters that are negotiable from the list of demands submitted by them to the university," said the notification issued by incharge registrar M. Sudhakar.

Appa Rao on Monday appeared before State Human Rights Commission. He was directed to appear before the commission last week but the registrar had appeared on his behalf and submitted a report on Saturday.

The commission was dealing with a petition about the university authorities closing down mess and stopping supply of water and other amenities to the students. The registrar already informed the commission that the students are getting all facilities.

In another development, former union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde met students and faculty members in jail and condemned the brutal police attack on them.

He said the students who were staging a peaceful protest were beaten up and arrested while the vice chancellor who has been booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act is still roaming free.
India looks forward to the southeast Asian nation of Timor Leste joining the Asean bloc, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday.

She said this during a meeting with Timor Leste's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Hermani Coelho da Silva, according to external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup.

This is the first visit to India by a foreign minister of Timor Leste since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 2003.

Then minister of state for external affairs Omar Abdullah represented India in Timor Leste's independence day celebrations in May 2002.

According to Swarup, Sushma Swaraj said that Timor Leste's accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) would help India extend more support and cooperation under the bloc's mechanism.

She also expressed concern that bilateral trade between India and Timor Leste stood at only $3 million and said that both sides should explore new avenues of trade and investment.

She said Timor Leste could benefit from India's advancement in the health sector and low cost medicines.

There is a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) on health cooperation that is under discussion between the two countries.

Stating that conclusion of the MoU soon would benefit both countries, Sushma Swaraj said that India was happy to provide a fully equipped ambulance to Timor Leste in January this year.

The ambulance can serve as a mobile operation theatre.

"The external affairs minister also recalled that we had offered to sign an MoU for setting up a centre of excellence in IT in Timor Leste which has been pending since 2004," Swarup said.

In terms of capacity building, Sushma Swaraj said that India could increase Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training slots and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships for Timor Leste.

She also said that India could also consider imparting training to Timor Leste diplomats in the Foreign Service Institute here.

"The minister for foreign affairs and cooperation thanked the external affairs minister and said that Timor Leste had received a lot of support from India," Swarup said.

Da Silva told Sushma Swaraj that relations between India and Timor Leste went back centuries from the time Goa was under Portuguese rule.

Currently, Timor Leste has a population of 1.2 million and the median age of 18.6 years.

As such skills training for youth was very important, the visiting minister said.

"He invited Indian private sector companies to participate in infrastructure development, agriculture development and capacity building," Swarup said.

Da Silva also said that 11 oil blocks were also open for exploration by India.

"He said that a delegation of Indian businessmen could visit Timor Leste for which they would identify the appropriate sectors," the external affairs ministry spokesman said.

The visiting minister also requested an early meeting of the joint commission between the two countries at vice minister level.

"The two ministers also reviewed regional and global developments," Swarup said.

"Both countries have cooperated closely with each other in UN fora," he added.
Leading former diplomats and experts on Monday called on governments of both India and Pakistan to show more maturity in handling bilateral relations.

"We are 69-year-old countries. We are grownups and why don't we take responsibility for ourselves? There is no point blaming the rest of the world for anything wrong happening in India- Pakistan relations or the condition we are in," former national security advisor and foreign secretary Shiv Shankar Menon said in a discussion on India-Pakistan relations here.

The discussion was organised by India International Centre at the re-release of book "State of Denial" on Pakistan by the late B.G. Verghese.

"There are sensible people on both sides of the line who, I think, understand the conditions better. Whether we are able to convince the world powers, say the western countries is a secondary issue for me I believe we can take care of ourselves," Menon added.

Senior journalist Prem Shankar Jha said: "If you wish to develop, you have to reach peace with your neighbours and for that you have to reach out with hand of friendship as (then prime minister Atal Bihari) Vajpayee ji did."

He also suggested that India should have conducted the plebiscite in Kashmir as mentioned in the UN Security Council resolution.

"If a plebiscite has not taken place, Pakistan is squarely responsible for it. When Pakistan had refused to conduct a plebiscite on their part of Kashmir, why didn't (then prime minister Jawaharlal) Nehru go ahead and hold a plebiscite in Indian Kashmir? That plebiscite would have gone 100 percent in our favour," he claimed.

"As late as April 2004, a European agency had conducted a secret poll in our Kashmir and results were 61 percent people polled saying they want to stay with India. Only six percent said they would like to go to Pakistan. 33 percent said they were on neither side. If that poll was true after 14-15 years of death, destruction and alienation of the place you can imagine the result of the plebiscite if it had happened," he added.

Former union minister Shashi Tharoor described Verghese's book as the most explicit description of India-Pakistan relations.

"His vision was extensive as he had seen the creation of Pakistan and the two countries growing together. He had suggested measures which go beyond geo-political solutions," Tharoor said but did not express his personal or Congress' views on the issue.
As India focuses on enhancing domestic production of military hardware, a surge in its export was recorded in nine months to end-2015, with the net value touching almost $210 million (Rs.1,400 crore).

According to the annual report of the defence ministry, the Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and the private sector companies exported products worth Rs.1,397 crore from April to December 2015. The final figures for the fiscal ending March 31 are yet to be tabulated.

Exports in the financial year 2014-15 were valued at Rs.994 crore.

"The trend in export shows phenomenal growth by the industry," the defence ministry report said.

It also lauded the role of private companies in the defence sector, stating that the exports by the sector had shown "accelerated growth" by 12-14 companies.

The major destinations for defence exports from India include Afghanistan, Algeria, Belgium, Ecuador, Indonesia, Israel, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Romania, Russia, South Korea, Sudan, Vietnam and the UK.

Among the major items being exported are Offshore patrol vessels, spares for radars, Cheetal helicopters, turbo chargers and batteries, electronic systems, light engineering mechanical parts and personal protective items, which comprise articles like helmets, bulletproof jackets and other types of clothing.

The report also observed that the online system for NoCs (No Objection Certificates) which was started in November 2014 is working satisfactorily.

In August 2015, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for issuing NOCs for export of military stores by public or private defence industry were also revised.

Under this, the requirement of an End User Certificate to be countersigned or stamped by the government authorities has been done away with for the export of items like parts, components or sub-systems.

As the government promotes participation of private sector in defence manufacturing, the report also said that the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion has issued 319 Industrial Licences to 190 companies till January 2016.

Of these, 50 companies with 79 licences have started production.

The new Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) envisages providing a boost to the 'Make in India' initiative, enhanced role for private sector, and promoting medium and small scale industries.

It also has a new category of Buy Indian -- Indigenous Design Development and Manufacturing under which indigenously designed equipment with 40 percent content will be procured.

According to Sweden-based think-tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), between 2011 and 2015 India was the largest importer of arms, accounting for 14 percent of the global trade.

It, however, does not appear prominently in the list of defence exporters, with the top slot being taken by the US, which accounts for 33 percent of global arms export, according to SIPRI.

According to the Institute's analysis, adding together the data that states have made available on the financial value of their arms exports, the estimated total value of the global arms trade in 2013 was at least $76 billion. It adds that the true figure is likely to be higher.

(Anjali Ojha can be contacted at anjali.o@ians.in)
Iraq's parliament on Monday gave Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi until Thursday to present candidates for a new cabinet line-up.

The ultimatum is seen as part of proposed anti-corruption reforms aimed at confronting the country's economic crisis, Xinhua news agency quoted state-run Iraqiya channel as saying.

In a statement, the lawmakers set Thursday as the "final deadline" for Abadi to present his cabinet for parliament approval.

If Abadi misses the deadline, the statement warned, parliament will "interpellate" him early next week, the channel said.

The move comes a day after Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr stepped up pressure on Abadi by starting a sit-in protest inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses the main government offices and some foreign embassies.

Thousands of Sadr's followers have been camping in an anti-corruption sit-in outside the gates for over a week.
A well-known comedian, a villain and a former villain from Malayalam film industry will battle it out in Pathanapuram in Kerala's coming assembly elections.

While K.B. Ganesh Kumar will this time be part of the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and look for a fourth consecutive win, taking him on will be hugely popular character and comedian Jagdish (Congress).

Not to be left behind, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided to field police officer-turned-actor Bheemen Reghu.

While Kumar is the youngest of the three and will turn 50 shortly, Jagdish and Reghu are in their early 60s.

Kumar represents the Kerala Congress (Pillai), the party floated by his father and former minister R. Balakrishna Pillai and which has been a part of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) for years.

Last year, owing to difference of opinion within, Kumar quit the UDF and joined the LDF that is led by the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M).

Kumar, whose film career began as a teenager, mostly playing the odd villain's roles in the late 80s, entered active politics when his father fielded him at Pathanapuram in 2001.

Since then, he has been elected thrice to the assembly and was a minister too. But he had to quit his post following a domestic issue, which led to a divorce with his doctor wife.

Since then, the father and son have been at loggerheads with the UDF leadership.

Jagdish, a college professor by profession, was on leave for a major portion of his teaching career and kept himself busy in the tinsel world. He was known for his Congress leanings.

Although Kerala will vote only on May 16, Jagdish is getting invited to more and more functions in the constituency. Kumar, as the outgoing legislator for 15 long years, is always in the constituency.

"I know the contest is going to be tough. But I will give my best," Jagdish told IANS.

Reghu's entry into films happened because he resembled then 'macho actor' Jayan, who died while filming a dangerous stunt in 1980.

The unexpected demise left a void. A few directors who had signed up Jayan decided to cast Reghu. His first film as hero was titled 'Bheemen' - and thus he got his prefix.

He has excelled in villain's roles in more than 300 films.

"Both my opponents are my friends but now we will be fighting each other," Reghu told IANS. "This is going to be a real fight to the finish."
Japanese tour agencies are bracing for an influx of millions of tourists nationwide during the annual cherry blossom season as enthusiasm around the flower-viewing festival has doubled since last year.

In 2015, a record 19.73 million overseas tourists visited cherry blossom hotspots in at least 18 park-hosting cities throughout Japan, EFE news reported on Monday.

This year Osaka-based tour agency Freeport Inc., which offers tours to the historic Osaka Park Castle, says it is already 80 percent booked through to mid-April.

The surge comes at a time when social media buzz on Chinese micro-blogging site Weibo has doubled since last year, with nearly 19,000 posts about the event in February alone.

The centuries-old festival, known locally as "Hanami", is celebrated with picnics and outdoor parties beneath the blooming sakura, or cherry, trees to recognise "the fragility and transience of life".

"The sakura flowers reach almost divine beauty for only a dozen days a year, before they wither," writes Kyoto-based tour operator Japan Experience on their website.

This year the flowers are expected to bloom on Tuesday in eight southern cities -- including Tokyo, Nagoya, Kumamoto and Fukuoka -- before moving northwards to prefectures home to cities including Sapporo and Yoshino, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.

"We have high hopes for this year's hanami sales offensive," said a park official from Ueno Park in Tokyo, adding that the park last year received 2.34 million visitors.

In 2016 it has planned additional events, including allowing visitors to practice throwing ninja stars, or shuriken, a flat-bladed weapon popularised overseas through comics.
The CPI-M-led LDF in Kerala on Monday finalised its seat sharing agreement amongst allies, after more than two weeks of discussions and deliberations.

Left Democratic Front convenor Vaikom Viswan, who presided over the seat-sharing talks, told reporters that the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) will contest 92 seats, the Communist Party of India 27, Janata Dal-Secular 5, the Nationalist Congress Party 4, while the Congress-S and Kerala Congress will contest one seat each.

Parties having a tie-up with the LDF -- Kerala Congress-Democratic will contest 4 seats, Indian National League (INL) 3, while Kerala Congress-Pillai, Communist Marxist Party (CMP) and Revolutionary Socialist Party-L (RSP-L) will contest one seat each.

Viswan said the list of candidates would be released on March 30.

Though there was speculation about Kerala Congress-Secular leader P.C. George, the seat-sharing talks did not feature the six-time legislator.

George had moved out of the LDF just before the 2011 polls to join the United Democratic Front, but last year broke his ties with the UDF and was waiting for his entry back into the LDF.

The LDF also decided not to give any seat to the JSS led by former CPI-M leader K.R. Gowri.

In the outgoing assembly, the LDF has 68 seats. In 2011, it was made up of six parties and had a tie-up with the INL.

This time, the LDF has got four more parties into its fold -- the breakaway factions of the Kerala Congress-Mani, Kerala Congress-Democratic, RSP-L and the CMP led by Aravindakshan.

K.B. Ganesh Kumar, the lone member of the Kerala Congress-Pillai moved over to the LDF last year.

Kerala goes to polls on May 16 to elect a new 140-member assembly.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators, including an ISI officer, from that country to probe the January terror attack on the Indian airbase in Pathankot.

Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan had been harbouring terrorism against India and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

"We were saying ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed?" he asked.

"Till now, Pakistan was held responsible for spreading terror. ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) itself sent terrorists to India and the same agency has now been allowed to investigate a terror attack," the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters here.

Kejriwal said it should have been "the other way round".

"Indian agencies should go to Pakistan to conduct probes as India is a victim of their terrorism but the opposite is happening and I can't tolerate this," he said.

"We don't know the reason behind this move (of allowing a Pakistani team to investigate Pathankot terror attack). Without any reason, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan," he added.

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the January 2 terror attack blamed on Pakistani terrorists. The attack left seven Indian security personnel and all the terrorists dead.
Actress Madonna Sebastian has not been roped in to star with actor Vishal Krishna in his next Tamil project, contrary to some media reports.

"Madonna part of Vishal's next project is just a rumour. She hasn't signed any new Tamil project yet," Madonna's manager told IANS.

She was rumoured to have signed director Suraj's next Tamil directorial "Kathi Sandai".

Currently busy shooting for the Telugu remake of "Premam", she was last seen in recent Tamil hit "Kadhalum Kadhandu Pogum".

Most popular for playing a character called Celine from Malayalam blockbuster "Premam", she's reprising the same role in the film's Telugu remake.
The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels would be high on the talks agenda during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Belgium on Wednesday, during which he will also attend the India-EU summit.

Prime Minister Modi will visit Belgium, the US and Saudi Arabia during his five-day three-nation tour beginning on March 30.

"The recent attacks in Belgium will be the starting point of the prime minister's engagement in Brussels," a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official said during a briefing ahead of the visit.

The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels, on Zaventem airport and the Maalbeek Metro station, claimed over 30 lives and left at least 270 people injured.

In Brussels, Modi will hold bilateral talks with the Belgian leadership and also attend the 13th India-EU summit. The last India-EU summit was held in 2012.

Modi will later travel to Washington, D.C., for the Nuclear Security Summit where he is likely to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

The external affairs ministry spokesperson, however, declined to say if Modi and Sharif would meet in Washington.

"I'm sure that the prime minister would have some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit," MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

"Many of the meetings are a work in progress. It will depend on the schedules of the two leaders," he added.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators from that country to probe the January terror attack on the IAF base in Pathankot in India.

Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan had been harbouring terrorism against India and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

"We were saying ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed?" the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters here. "Prime Minister Modi has surrendered before Pakistan," he said.

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the January 2 terror attack blamed on Pakistani terrorists. The attack left seven Indian security personnel and all the terrorists dead.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave on Tuesday night on a three-nation visit during which he will attend the India-EU summit in Brussels and the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington.

Modi will attend the 13th India-European Union (EU) summit and a bilateral summit with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel on Wednesday during his first ever visit to Brussels.

Addressing a media conference here on Monday, Nandini Singla, joint secretary (Europe West) in the ministry of external affairs, said that India-European bilateral summits started in 2000 and the relationship was turned into a strategic partnership in 2004.

"India is one of the 10 strategic partners that the EU has today," Singla said.

"The last (India-EU) summit was held in New Delhi in 2012," she said.

She said that EU continued to be a global economic powerhouse and was the biggest economy in the world with a GDP of $18 trillion.

The EU is the world's largest exporter and importer of goods and services.

For India, EU is the largest export destination and trading partner.

"Our two-way trade, including services, amounts to $1.6 billion," Singla said.

"It is also the largest source of foreign direct investment in India with $69 billion," she said, adding that the EU was also a global leader in establishing global norms and industry standards.

Singla said that during the summit meeting, India would aim to reinvigorate its ties with the EU.

"We seek to advance the India-EU strategic partnership by deepening and expanding cooperation," she stated.

Trade and investment would figure prominently during the summit meeting.

Modi will meet President of the European Council Donald Tusk and President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Junker.

The prime minister had met both these leaders during the G20 summit at Antalya in Turkey in November last year.

A number of agreements are expected to be exchanged following the summit meeting.

The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels will figure in Modi's bilateral summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Michel on March 30.

Singla said that India would look at enhancing India-Belgium cooperation in "areas of parity for us", and also counter-terrorism.

"The recent attacks in Brussels will of course be a very important part of the discussions," Singla said.

At least 35 people were killed in two explosions at the Zaventem airport and one at a metro station in the Belgian capital on March 22.

Singla said that during the bilateral summit meeting, India and Belgium would discuss cooperation in renewable energy, biotechnology, shipping, and information and communication technology (ICT) among other areas.

"We will also discuss how to enhance cooperation in multilateral issues and also how to step up high-level visits between both sides," she said.

The Belgian prime minister will host a luncheon meeting during which Modi will meet Belgian businessmen and CEOs in a bid to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI) in India.

Belgium is India's second largest trading partner in the European Union (EU).

Singla said that Modi would also interact with members of the Indian community in Belgium.

There are around 20,000 Indians in Belgium and many of them are engaged in diamond trading in Antwerp.

Another highlight of Modi's visit will be the technical activation of Asia's largest optical telescope at Devasthal near Nainital that has been built with Belgium's aid.

On March 31, Modi will leave for Washington on the second leg of his visit where he will attend the two-day Fourth Nuclear Security Summit (NSS).

Leaders of 52 countries and four international organisations are expected to participate in the summit.

On April 2, on his way back to India, Modi will drop in at Riyadh for a two-day bilateral visit to Saudi Arabia.

This will be the first prime ministerial visit from India to the Gulf after the visit of then prime minister Manmohan Singh in 2010.
Director Raam Reddy says the National Award for his Kannada directorial debut "Thithi", which has been internationally feted, is a dream-come-true-moment for his team as the film is getting ready for its release in theatres.

"After such an incredible journey internationally, winning a National Award is a dream come true. With major awards going to mega blockbusters like 'Baahubali' and 'Bajirao Mastani', and with the backing of distributor Suresh Productions, we are now confident and very hopeful for the commercial potential of 'Thithi'," Reddy told IANS.

"Thithi", a film about how three generations of men react to their grandfather's death, had already won top awards at Locarno International Film Festival.

"With our release slated for the end of April or early May, and with the support and belief of stars such as Rana Daggubati, we feel positive about 'Thithi' finding a wide audience in Karnataka and across the country," he said.
Director Gurvinder Singh, whose internationally acclaimed Punjabi film "Chauthi Koot" has been honoured with a National Film Award, says regional cinema has been neglected this year in favour of "commercial films". So, he feels it's all a "complete farce".

"Chauthi Koot", which has been screened at various international film festivals including the 2015 Cannes International Film Festival and Singapore International Film Festival, was named as the Best Punjabi Film at the 63rd National Film Awards announcement here on Monday.

Singh says the National Award for his movie was "expected".

"All the main awards have gone to commercial films. 'Baahubali', which is a totally crap film has got the Best Film award. I think it is a BJP award and not National Award," Singh told IANS.

"It's a complete farce and all the art films have been neglected this time. The National Awards are mainly meant for regional cinema, but they have been completely neglected this time. Overall, all the awards have gone to Bollywood," added Singh, pointing to the victory of films like "Baahubali: The Beginning", "Tanu Weds Manu Returns", "Piku", "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" and "Bajirao Mastani".

Interestingly, apart from the southern magnum opus "Baahubali", no other regional film was given a mainstream award this year. On social media platforms, the winners got a lot of flak.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has cancelled his visit to the US after nearly 70 people were killed in a suicide bombing in Lahore, the foreign ministry said on Monday.

The prime minister was scheduled to leave for Washington on Monday to represent Pakistan at a nuclear summit.

"In view of the terrorist attack in Lahore, which took a heavy toll on the lives of innocent citizens of Pakistan and caused injuries to scores of people, the prime minister has decided to cancel his visit to Washington to attend the Nuclear Security Summit," Xinhua quoted the foreign ministry as saying.

The Pakistan delegation to Washington will now be led by Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Syed Tariq Fatemi, the ministry said in a statement.

"Pakistan has actively participated in the NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) process and has developed a robust Command and Control System and multi-layered security of its nuclear programme. Pakistan cooperates closely with the IAEA," it said.

Sharif spent the entire Monday in Lahore condoling the bereaved families, as well as visiting the hospitals to meet those injured in the terrorist attack.

He expressed solidarity with the victims' families and reassured that the perpetrators behind the heinous attack would be brought to justice.

The blast, claimed by Pakistani Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, was carried out by a suicide bomber at a crowded public park in Lahore on Sunday evening. More than 300 people were wounded in the attack.
South African parliament can not conduct investigations into the alleged "state capture" by the Indian Gupta family, Moloto Mothapo, parliamentary spokesperson said on Monday.

The allegations of "state capture" by the Guptas were being investigated by the special anti-crime unit Hawks and Public Protector Thuli Madonsela, following requests for investigations, Moloto Mothapo of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) was quoted by Xinhua.

Therefore Parliament can not conduct investigations on a matter that was being looked into by other organs of state, Mothapo said.

"Parliament should not find itself in a situation where it is conducting parallel investigations," he said.

He was responding to a request by the opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) that Parliament should investigate "patterns of state capture" by the wealthy Gupta family.

Considering the severity of the claims of "state capture" and mounting evidence, Parliament must investigate this "as matter of urgency", the DA said on Sunday.

The Gupta family, which allegedly keeps close ties with President Jacob Zuma, his family and ANC officials, has been accused of exerting undue influence on South Africa's state affairs by offering cabinet posts to ANC officials. The family has denied the accusation.

DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen claimed that ANC Chief Whip Jackson Mthembu had voiced support for calls to investigate "state capture" by the Gupta family.

Steenhuisen said Mthembu has agreed to the DA's proposal for Parliament to institute an investigation into the alleged state influence by the Gupta family.

However, Mothapo said Steenhuisen's claim was "imaginary and baseless".

Mothapo said Mthembu never made such statements but merely stressed that, as a general principle, Parliament as a forum for public debates should never quash multiparty debates, but each proposed debate should be subjected to the established parliamentary process for consideration and a decision by all parties.

"Only a delusional misapprehension would interpret this clear assertion (on parliamentary debates) to mean the ANC chief whip supports the DA's proposal for a 'parliamentary investigation' into alleged state influence by the Gupta family,"Mothapo said in a statement.
The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) on Monday said that it will invest $5.1 billion for the development of two hydrocarbon fields in the Krishna-Godavari basin.

"Board of directors of ONGC approved the field development plan (FDP) for the development of fields falling under cluster 2 of the deep-water block KG-DWN-98/2," the state-run oil and natural gas explorer said in a statement.

"The development would involve a capital expenditure of $5,076.37 million."

According to the company, the cluster is projected to produce a total of 23.5 million tonnes of oil and 50.7 billion cubic meters of gas over the life of the field.

The project is set to be completed by June 2020. Natural gas is expected to be extracted from June 2019, whereas oil production is scheduled to commence from March 2020.
Authorities at Pathankot airbase in Punjab will take the visiting Pakistan probe team only to specific and limited areas within the Air Force Station (AFS) when it arrives here on Tuesday.

The Pakistan Joint Investigation Team's members will be kept away from the AFS' technical area and shown only those areas where security forces engaged the Pakistani terrorists in the first week of January.

Informed defence sources here said the team members could also be shown the bodies of the killed terrorists kept in a government mortuary in the town.

Officials of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) will accompany the JIT members.

The JIT will not get to interact with IAF or other defence and security officials and personnel involved in the 80-hour counter-operation by security forces against the terrorists who attacked the airbase in the early hours of January 2.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday in Panaji (Goa) that the Pakistani team would not have access to the operational area of the airbase, but only the isolated "crime scene", which has been completely barricaded and fenced.

All the terrorists and seven security personnel were killed at the base.

The January attack on the IAF base was the second one by suspected Pakistani terrorists. A group of three Pakistani terrorists had attacked Dinanagar town in adjoining Gurdaspur district on July 27 last year, leaving seven people dead.
A day after a powerful blast ripped through a public park in Lahore city killing over 70 people, Pakistani security forces on Monday launched an operation against militants, the media reported.

The operation was initiated following an order from Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif. The decision to launch the operation was taken at a high level military meeting attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, The Nation reported.

According to sources, intelligence agencies, Pakistan Rangers and the army conducted five operations on Sunday night in Multan, Faisalabad and Sialkot.

The security forces arrested a number of militants and facilitators, sources said.

The attack at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park of Lahore city, the capital of Punjab province, left at least 72 people dead, mostly women and children, and more than 250 injured.

A Pakistani Taliban splinter group "Jamaat-ul-Ahrar" claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the group deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.

Sunday's suicide bombing was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the December 16, 2014 Army Public School massacre, which killed at least 134 school children prompting a government crackdown on Islamist militancy, and the launch of the National Action Plan (NAP).

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a tweet.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the September 11, 2001, attacks by the Al-Qaeda in the US.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of militants under the crackdown launched after the 2014 APS attack.

Pakistan's security agencies have long been accused of nurturing militants to be used against Afghanistan and India.

But some groups, such as the Pakistani Taliban, have now turned against the state.
Pakistani Prime Minister will attend the fourth nuclear security summit in Washington on Thursday.

On his way to the US, Sharif will leave for London on Monday with a brief stopover of couple of days, The Nation reported.

During his two-day stay in London, Sharif would meet the Pakistani community and apprise them of the development works being carried out in the country.

The nuclear security summit in the US will discuss the evolving threats and highlight steps to minimise the use of highly-enriched uranium.

The summit also offered an opportunity for Pakistan to project its credentials in the nuclear field.

On the sidelines of the summit, Sharif is expected to meet US President Barack Obama.

Besides other issues, security situation in Pakistan is likely to be discussed.
A Pakistani team in India to probe the terror attack on Pathankot's airbase woud not have access to the base per se but only the isolated "crime scene", Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

Parrikar said the defence ministry had "refused permission" to the visiting probe team to access the base. "The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call."

Parrikar said only the National Investigation Agency (NIA) can tell whether it is taking the Pakistan probe team to the crime scene.

The Pakistani team comprising five intelligence and police officials is expected to reach Pathankot in Punjab on Tuesday.

The crime scene, where terrorists from Pakistan killed seven security personnel on January 2, has been handed over to the NIA and has been isolated.

But it lies within the sprawling Indian Air Force complex.

The minister said the area has been fenced, has no contact with the base and even has a separate entry.

"The area is isolated, taken out of the airbase, and completely barricaded."

He added that the Pakistani team has been given no permission to interact with any defence personnel or use any defence vehicle during its Pathankot visit.

"The directions are very clear. The crime scene should be barricaded, visually blocked. External entry has been given to the NIA. Who they bring in is their responsibility," the minister said.

"If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry," Parrikar added.

The Pakistani officials arrived in Delhi on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack. The team will travel to Pathankot on Tuesday, informed sources said.

All the terrorists and seven security personnel were killed at the base.

Parrikar had so far kept quiet on the issue as the air force chief, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, had said that the IAF had no objection in allowing the Pakistani team if the government agreed.

Raha also said that the IAF wanted a closure to the case.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "surrendering" to Pakistan by allowing officials, including one from ISI, from that country to probe in India the January terror attack at the IAF base in Pathankot.

Kejriwal made the allegation in the media hall of the Delhi assembly shortly after Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had unveiled the budget for the national capital for 2016-17.

With Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators holding a large Indian flag and hand-painted banners as the backdrop, Kejriwal went aggressive vis-a-vis the prime minister.

Kejriwal said that successive Indian governments had been stating for three decades that it was Pakistan and its intelligence agency ISI which had sponsored terrorism against India.

He questioned the logic behind allowing a Pakistani team access to the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot where Pakistani terrorists killed seven Indian security personnel on January 2.

"They (Pakistani state) have come to collect evidence of the very attack they sponsored?" the chief minister asked mockingly.

"Till now we (India) have said that it was all Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. For 30 years this has been the Indian government's position. Is this changing?

"If it is Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, how can they probe the attack?"

The AAP leader said that instead of letting the Pakistanis in, Indian investigators, including from the Intelligence Bureau, should have gone to Pakistan.

"We don't know the reason behind this move. Without reason, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan," he added.

AAP legislators raised slogans like "Pakistan go back" and "ISI go back".

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the terror attack in Pathankot in Punjab.

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra added: "Pakistan will kill us. Pakistan will also probe. Pakistan will also be the judge. And they will decide our fate.

The Pakistanis, he said, were being fed "biryani" by the Modi government.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday dubbed President's Rule in Uttarakhand as "murder of democracy" and accused the central government of violating the Indian constitution.

"The President's Rule in Uttarakhand is a murder of democracy," Nitish told the media here.

He said the Bharatiya Janata Party-led union government had openly violated the 10th schedule of the constitution. "The 10th schedule should be removed from the constitution," the Bihar chief minister said.

Nitish also questioned the Centre's alleged role in horse-trading in Uttarakhand.

Earlier, he said that the President's Rule in Uttarakhand was a blatant assault on democracy and exposed the Narendra Modi government's so-called commitment to cooperative federalism.
Hundreds of Islamists on Monday continued the siege of the heart of the Pakistani capital to denounce the hanging of the commando who assassinated the Punjab governor for alleged blasphemy.

Amid clashes with security forces, the estimated 2,000-strong gathering refused to disperse till the government meets their demands, including the implementation of Sharia, media reports said.

The army has been deployed in Islamabad's Red Zone to prevent the situation from getting out of hand.

The demonstrators were protesting against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who shot dead the governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer. They want Qadri should be declared a martyr.

The Sunni Tehreek and other religious outfits involved in the demonstration that began on Sunday evening want the Sharia implemented in Pakistan.

On Sunday, the government called in the army to secure the Red Zone after the Islamists, then numbering some 10,000, clashed with police and Pakistan Rangers and set fire to containers and barricades.

Police fired tear gas as the crowds gathered about 700 metres from the parliament building, The News International reported.

On Sunday, some of them beat up journalists and attacked the Karachi Press Club, accusing the media of not giving their protests adequate coverage.

The Anjuman Talba-e-Islam (ATI), student wing of Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan-Noorani, on Sunday staged a demonstration on the eve of 'Chehlum' for Qadri.

Witnesses and police said dozens of charged ATI workers reached the press club wearing helmets to conceal their identities.

After a heated argument with cameramen, they started smashing the windowpanes of a parked vehicle of a private news channel and then set it on fire.
After his government failed to introduce the bill to provide reservation to Jat and other communities on Monday, as was anticipated, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the bill would be brought in the ongoing session of the assembly.

"The bill on reservation for Jats could be brought any day in the ongoing session of the state assembly, which would continue for three more days," Khattar told the media after the session ended for the day.

It was anticipated in Haryana's political circles that the government will introduce the reservation bill on Monday after the cabinet approved its draft earlier in the day.

"There was no confusion in this regard as a promise has already been made to introduce the bill in the Vidhan Sabha. Therefore, it can be in the list of business any day," Khattar said while trying to clear the air on delay in introducing the bill.

The state cabinet, earlier on Monday, cleared the bill that proposes to provide reservation to the politically-dominant Jat community and four other communities -- Jat Sikhs, Tyagis, Bishnois and Rors.

Khattar had made it clear earlier that the existing 27 percent reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in the state would not be disturbed as the OBC community is opposing inclusion of Jats in their category for reservation.

A five-member committee under the chairmanship of the chief secretary was formed earlier this month to prepare draft of the bill to grant reservation under the ambit of the Constitution.

The Jat community has extended its deadline for the reservation demand till April 3.

The Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state had promised reservation for the Jat community and others after the recent Jat agitation for reservation left the state paralysed for nine days.

As many as 30 people were killed and 320 injured and property worth hundreds of crores of rupees was destroyed as the agitation turned violent.
An outraged opposition on Monday questioned the government's move to allow Pakistanis, including an ISI officer, into India to probe the Pathankot terror attack even as Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said the visiting investigators would only go to an isolated "crime" spot and not the entire sensitive airbase.

As the Congress and AAP launched a tirade against the government, Parrikar said the defence ministry had "refused permission" to the visiting Pakistani probe panel to access the entire Indian Air Force (IAF) base, where six Pakistani militants in a gun and bomb attack on January 2 killed seven Indian security personnel.

He said that the shootout area was "completely barricaded" and "visually blocked" to prevent any view of sensitive areas. "The area is isolated, taken out of the airbase," Parrikar told reporters in Panaji on the sidelines of the DefExpo 2016.

The site however is part of the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. The minister insisted the shootout site has no contact with the base and has a separate entry also.

"The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call. If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry."

The Pakistani team arrived in India on Sunday to conduct its own probe into the Pathankot attack. Senior ISI official Lt. Colonel Tanvir Ahmed and Military Intelligence officer Lt. Colonel Irfan Mirza are part of the team, sources said.

The team will on Tuesday fly to Pathankot in a special BSF plane that will land away from the Pathankot airbase, official sources said. From there, they will be taken to the barricaded shootout spot where alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed militants were holed up during the gunfight that went on for some 80 hours.

India says that six terrorists from Pakistan-based JeM attacked the base on January 2. All the terrorists were gunned down in the gun battle that also left a civilian dead.

The Congress and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi lambasted the government and questioned how an ISI officer was allowed to visit India and permitted inside the airbase.

"It appears to be a case of an accused investigating himself. The BJP government has distinguished and, therefore, recognized that Pakistani establishment does not have a role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in context to Pathankot terror attack," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said.

"Why is an officer of the infamous ISI of Pakistan a part of the JIT?"

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal went a step further and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing the Pakistani investigators to probe the attack.

"Till now, Pakistan was held responsible for spreading terror. ISI itself sent terrorists to India and the same agency has now been allowed to investigate (the) terror attack," the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters in Delhi. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan."

The Pakistani probe team was on Monday briefed by National Investigation Agency (NIA) on the findings of its probe into the attack that was allegedly masterminded by JeM chief Masood Azhar.

NIA sources told IANS that the Pakistani investigators were given a detailed presentation on the evidence that "proves" that the attack was planned in Pakistan and had a link to Azhar's JeM.

The Pakistani team will also be allowed to speak to witnesses but not to the personnel from the National Security Guard (NSG) or the BSF. Minister Parrikar confirmed this and said the Pakistani team will interact with no defence person or use any defence vehicle during its Pathankot visit.

This is the first time that India has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country. Also, Lt. Colonel Ahmed has become the first ISI officer to be officially allowed to visit India.
Substantive talks on Syrian reconciliation in Geneva have made some progress and should be sustained, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said on Monday.

UN Special Envoy Staffan De Mistura's statement about continuing the negotiations on April 11 sounds optimistic, Xinhua news agency cited Ryabkov as saying in an interview with Russian newspaper Izvestiya.

Future negotiations should ensure equal representation of the Kurds and the Syrian opposition should adopt a more realistic stance and abandon attempts to set preconditions, he said.

On US State Secretary John Kerry's recent visit to Moscow, Ryabkov said the frequency of Kerry's visits to Moscow is unprecedented.

"It stems from the nature of issues we are discussing and from the US's recognition, despite its own declarations, that a number of major and important international problems cannot be solved without Russia," he said.

The latest round of Syrian peace talks, which opened on March 14, was wrapped up in Geneva on Thursday with a paper of 12 points of commonalities delivered to both sides for further consideration.

On top of the points list is the principle of respect for sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria, and "no part of the national territory shall be ceded."
The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of the visa to controversial Bangladeshi author and her prosecution for her utterances on Lord Christ and Mother Mary.

Dismissing the plea by the All India Human Rights and Social Justice Forum, a bench of Chief Justice T S Thakur and Justice Uday Umesh Lalit observed: "Do you want prosecution of Taslima. Sorry we are not interested."

Appearing for the NGO, Senior Counsel Nafis A Siddiqui drew the attention of the court to the utterances by the Bangladeshi author for which she could be prosecuted and punished under section 13 (Attempts, etc., to contravene the provisions of the Foreigners Act, 1946) and section 14 (Penalty for contravention of provisions of the Act,) of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

Seeking the cancellation of her visa and her prosecution, the senior counsel said that they have objected to her tweet wherein while asking in a poser what was wrong in celebrating Christmas, the controversial writer had said: "I can't celebrate lies. Jesus's mom was not virgin and he was no God's son."
Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has cancelled his visit to Britain following the deadly Easter Sunday suicide attack in a Lahore city park that left at least 70 people killed and over 250 injured, a media report said.

According to a spokesman at the Prime Minister's Secretariat, Sharif was scheduled to leave for Britain on Monday but he cancelled his trip after the blast at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, where Christians were celebrating Easter on Sunday evening.

Sharif was to go to London for a meeting with Prime Minister David Cameron on way to to the US for the Nuclear Security Summit 2016. He will now travel directly to the US after a couple of days. The News International quoted the spokesman as saying.

The spokesman also said Sharif held detailed deliberations at a high-level meeting here which reviewed security situation in Pakistan. The meeting lasted for several hours, and was attended by Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and officials.

The Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.

During the high-level meeting in Islamabad late Sunday night, Sharif said terrorists and their facilitators involved in Lahore suicide attack would be taken to task at all costs, Radio Pakistan reported on Monday.

Stating that his heart bleeds as the terrorists had targeted his sons, daughters, brothers and sisters, Sharif said the terrorists were committing "cowardly acts after facing defeat".

The prime minister stressed the need for strengthening national unity and burying differences to confront terrorism with strong resolve.

The meeting, attended among by Nisar Ali Khan and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, took several important decisions in the wake of Lahore incident, the media report said.
Former union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde on Monday condemned the brutal police attack on students and faculty member of University of Hyderabad as he called on 25 students and two faculty members in Cherlapally Jail here.

He said the students who were staging a peaceful protest on March 22 on the campus were beaten up and arrested while Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao, who has been booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act is still roaming free.

Talking to reporters, Shinde said Appa Rao should have resigned after he was named in the FIR booked following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

"Instead of resigning, he went on leave and now he has come back as vice chancellor, which led to fresh unrest on the campus," he said.

He also alleged that Appa Rao held a meeting with leaders of ABVP before resuming charge as the vice chancellor.

Shinde, who was accompanied by Congress party's Telangana unit president Uttam Kumar Reddy and others, gathered details of the events of March 22.

He said the students showed him injury marks on their bodies due to brutal lathi charge by the police.

The former union minister also met Radhika, mother of Rohith Vemula and lauded her courage in fighting for the friends of her son. Paying tributes to Rohith, Shinde said he laid down the life for the country while following the path of B.R. Ambedkar.

Leaders of various student groups also met Shinde and briefed him about the incidents that occurred in the central university.
Six people were killed on Monday when a vehicle they were travelling in collided with a truck in Raisen district in Madhya Pradesh, police said.

Nine others were injured and were in critical condition, police officer K.S. Rajput told IANS.

They were travelling in the vehicle from Chhindwara district to Karila Devi temple in Vidisha district when the accident took place. Five men and a woman died instantly.
The 'Spirit of India' run - an initiative of former Australian parliamentarian Pat Farmer and the tourism ministry - entered the Kashmir valley on Monday.

On entering the valley after crossing the Bannihal or Jawahar tunnel - which connects Kashmir with Jammu and the rest of the world by road - Farmer said Kashmir was safe for tourism and the people should shun their prejudiced views to visit the beautiful place and enjoy themselves.

The eight-member team of Farmer comprises his wife Tania, crew manager Katie Walsh, doctor Joseph Grace, journalist Kevin Nguyen, film director Anupam Sharma and his three assistants.

The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department organised a cultural programme to welcome the team, in which artistes showcased Kashmiri art and music.

The 'Spirit of India' run under the aegis of the 'Incredible India' programme began on January 26 from Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu and will culminate at Srinagar on March 31 after travelling through various states.

It provides a unique opportunity to showcase Jammu and Kashmir's historical places of tourist interest in the Australian market.
Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Monday called on South Asian nations to unite to eliminate terrorism.

In a twitter message, strongly condemning the terror attack in Pakistan's Lahore city on Sunday, Sirisena said his condolences were with the loved ones of the victims of the attack which killed at least 72 people and injured 250, Xinhua news agency reported.

The suicide bombing at Gate No.1 of the crowded Ghulam-e-Iqbal park killed Christian families celebrating Easter.

A faction of the Pakistani Taliban, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, has claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.
Students' and teachers' associations here on Monday sought immediate removal and arrest of University of Hyderabad (UoH) Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao in wake of the recent violence in the varsity campus.

The Joint Action Committee for Social Justice (Delhi), formed to fight for justice to Hyderabad varsity Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula who committed suicide, condemned the attack on its teachers and students in a crackdown after some students had ransacked VC's office in the campus.

"The Joint Action Committee for Social Justice strongly condemns the unprovoked and brutal lathi-charge on the students and faculty of UoH on March 22nd by Telengana Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF) and CRPF," the committee said in a statement.

"His (Appa Rao) sudden and secretive return to the university after a two months long 'indefinite leave' and resumption of VC's charge jeopardise any possibility of a fair inquiry and hope for justice for Rohith Vemula," it added.

The Federation of Central Universities Teachers Association (FEDCUTA) also condemned the attack on the students in Hyderabad as an attempt to curb dissent.

"There is an attempt to crush students and teachers movements. The students leaders are being attacked in one way or the other. We have right to discuss all kinds of issues. Because we're having discussions (about the issues) we are dubbed as anti-nationals," said FEDCUTA president Nandita Narain at a press conference.

Both outfits raised several demands including resignation of Appa Rao and judicial enquiry into the role of Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani for communal incidents in the campus and suicide of Vemula.

"We demand judicial enquiry into the role of HRD minister and union minister Bandaru Dattatreya in inciting violence against Dalits on campus and death of Rohith Vemula," they said in a joint statement.

They also further demanded passage of "Rohith Act" against caste discrimination in and arrest of all culprits booked under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 in Vemula's suicide case.

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association President Ajay Patnaik, Jamia Teachers Solidarity Association Manisha Sethi and Delhi University professor N. Sukumar, an alumni of UoH also expressed solidarity with the agitating students of the varsity.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday held a meeting with Timor Leste Foreign Minister Hernani Coelho here.

"Broadening Act East with Timor Leste. EAM @SushmaSwaraj meets FM Hernani Coelho in Delhi," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted and posted a picture of the two leaders.

Coelho, who arrived here on Sunday, is also scheduled to meet Minister of State for External Affairs V.K. Singh and union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda later on Monday.

Earlier in the day, Sushma Swaraj also met Srgjan Kerim, former foreign minister of Macedonia.
Abu Dhabi, March 28 (IANS/WAM) The United Arab Emirates and Finland have signed an agreement on the exchange of information for tax purposes between the two countries.

The agreement was signed by Younis Haji Al Khoori, undersecretary of the finance ministry, and Riitta Swan, Ambassador of Finland to the UAE.

Al Khoori stressed the importance of signing similar agreements as they play a significant role in strengthening the financial and economic cooperation between countries, ensuring justice for individual or company taxpayers and protecting the national economy.

"Signing this agreement with Finland is a continuation to the series of international agreements previously signed between both countries," Al Khoori said.

UAE and Finland are associated by a joint committee based on economic, industrial and technical cooperation between the two countries. The two parties signed agreements for the avoidance of double taxation on income, and for protecting and encouraging investments in 1996.

The foreign trade between both countries amounted to 342 million UAE dirhams ($98 million) in 2015.

--IANS/WAM

ksk/vt
Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday demanded that the Centre confer the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian honour, on Veer Savarkar and thus "shut up the Congress permanently" in the ongoing row over the revolutionary leader.

"The Congress has insulted not only Veer Savarkar, but all other revolutionaries. Now the government must immediately announce Bharat Ratna for Veer Savarkar and shut up the Congress permanently," Thackeray said in a statement.

On the Bharatiya Janata Party's demand that the Congress must apologise for its remarks on Savarkar, failing which the party would agitate outside the homes of all Congress legislators in Mumbai, Thackeray said this "drama" should be stopped once and for all by announcing Bharat Ratna for the revolutionary.

"There won't be need for any agitation after that," he said.

"The (Narendra) Modi government must show guts and confer Bharat Ratna on Veer Savarkar. In the past, the Shiv Sena has agitated several times over insults to Veer Savarkar, thrown slippers at Mani Shankar Aiyar, stopped parliament.

"In the past, those who remained aloof from our agitation are now talking about agitating for Veer Savarkar. This is a good development, but, at least now, show some courage," he said.

Thackeray's statement came in the wake of a tweet by the Congress on March 23, hailing the 85th anniversary of martyrdom of the trio of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev and terming Veer Savarkar as a "traitor" which sparked a political storm.

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had recently said in the Lok Sabha that "(Mahatma) Gandhi is ours, Savarkar is yours", which was strongly protested by the BJP members.

Born in Nashik in Maharashtra, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, later known as Swatantraveer Savarkar, was a revolutionary and Hindu nationalist who was jailed in the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands by the British.

Educated in Pune and London, he died in Mumbai on February 26, 1966, aged 82.
Close on the heels of losing power in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, worries seemed to have mounted in the Congress about similar desertions in Himachal Pradesh as Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh called on party president Sonia Gandhi here on Monday.

Virbhadra Singh, also facing a probe by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case, met Gandhi in the presence of party leader Ambika Soni and briefed her about efforts being made to destabilise his government, party sources said.

During his meeting, Virbhadra Singh alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been trying to destabilise his government for quite some time, as they had toppled Congress chief ministers in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

The meeting between the chief minister and the Congress chief came on a day the opposition BJP created a ruckus in the state assembly in Shimla.

The BJP on its part has denied charges of creating instability and maintained that discontent was instead brewing inside the Congress against the chief minister.

"There is discontent in the Congress against the chief minister. He is only making baseless allegations to garner cheap sympathy," BJP national secretary Shrikant Sharma said.

Official sources said assets worth over Rs.7 crore were attached by the ED in the money laundering case against the chief minister.

Assets of his son Vikramaditya Singh, the state Youth Congress president, too were attached by the ED recently.

The ED had filed the case against the Congress leader under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act after taking cognizance of a criminal complaint filed by the CBI.

The Delhi High Court on March 16 refused to grant any interim stay on the money laundering case proceedings against the chief minister and others.

Virbhadra Singh on March 23 said the ED's action to attach his son's assets in New Delhi was uncalled for.

"It is not being done by court orders but suo motu action of the ED under political pressure from their political bosses," the chief minister said earlier.

In the 68-member assembly, the Congress has a wafer-thin majority with 36 members while the BJP has 26. There are five independent legislators and one from the Himachal Lok Shakti Party.
South Africa dominated with both bat and ball to outclass defending champions Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the final Group 1 match of the World Twenty20 at the Ferozeshah Kotla Stadium here on Monday.

Having bowled out the Sri Lankans for a mere 120 runs, the South Africans overhauled the target in 17.4 overs with the veteran Hashim Amla leading the way with a half century.

Amla remained unbeaten on 56 runs off 52 balls with five boundaries and a six.

The result of the match had no bearing on the overall picture of the tournament as both teams had already crashed out of the race for the semi-finals.

The Proteas, who have two wins and as many defeats in the group stage, thus finished their campaign in this edition of the tournament on the high.

The Sri Lankans, on the other hand, will probably heave a sigh of relief as they concluded a disappointing campaign. The defending champions have suffered three defeats with a lone win against minnows Afghanistan.

South African skipper Faf du Plessis elected to field first on winning the toss. His decision proved to be a correct one as the Proteas exploited helpful bowling conditions to bundle out Sri Lanka for a meagre 120 runs.

Farhaan Behardien (2/15), Kyle Abott (2/14) and Aaron Phangiso (2/26) were the pick among the Proteas bowlers while leg-spinner Imran Tahir (1/18) was unlucky not to get more wickets.

Experienced fast bowler Dale Steyn (1/33) surprisingly, gave away quite a few runs, although he did have some consolation in the form of a wicket.

The Sri Lankans were off to a good start with openers Tilakratne Dilshan and Dinesh Chandimal scoring at a brisk pace. Dilshan was the highest scorer among the Sri Lankan batsmen with 36 runs off 40 balls. Chandimal scored 21.

The duo added 45 runs before Chandimal went for a cover drive off Phangiso, only to miss the line as the ball crashed into the stumps. Phangiso then sent back Lahiru Thirimanne off the very next delivery with one that turned in sharply after pitching outside the off stump.

Dilshan and Milinda Siriwardana (15) tried to bring the Sri Lankan innings back on track with a 30-run partnership. But South Africa wrested back the advantage when a superb piece of fielding by Faf du Plesis caught Siriwardana short of his crease.

By the time Dilshan was trapped leg-before while attempting a sweep off Behardien, Sri Lanka were in trouble at 85/5. Dasun Shanaka remained unbeaten on 20 off 18 balls, but the rest of the Lankan tailenders were unable to hold their own against the Proteas bowlers.

The Proteas chase was off to a rocky start as de Kock was run out in the second over thanks to an accurate throw by Dilshan. Amla and du Plessis however, steered South Africa to saftey with a 50-run partnership.

The South Africa captain departed after scoring 31 runs off 36 deliveries, but the experienced AB de Villiers joined Amla in the middle to carry his team to victory.

De Villiers, who remained unbeaten on 20, smashed two sixes in his 12-ball knock and brought up the win by smashing a full toss from Suranga Lakmal over the midwicket fence.

Brief scores:

Sri Lanka 120 in 19.3 overs (Tilakratne Dilshan 36; Farhaan Behardien 2/15, Kyle Abott 2/14, Aaron Phangiso 2/26) vs South Africa 122/2 in 17.4 overs (Hashim Amla 56 n.o., Faf du Plessis 31; Suranga Lakmal 1/28)
Over one lakh farmers from 27 districts in Maharashtra are expected to turn up for a rally in Nashik on Tuesday to be addressed by CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, an official said on Monday.

Yechury will raise burning issues concerning farmers like waiver of farm loans, power bills, drought, fodder, employment, compensation for crop damage and minimum support prices for crops as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission.

The rally is being organised by Maharashtra Rajya Kisan Sabha (MRKS), an affiliate of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), said AIKS joint secretary Ashok Dhawale.

"The policies of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre and Devendra Fadnavis in Maharashtra are against farmers. In his pre-election speeches, Prime Minister Modi had assured implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's report.

"After coming to power, it (government) filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court that giving this price to farmers was not feasible," Dhawale said.

Besides, there is no talk of giving farm loan waiver, which is estimated at around Rs.8 lakh crore across India and Rs.39,000 crore in Maharashtra.

"In the last two union budgets, the Modi regime showered corporates with tax concessions of Rs.12 lakh crore.

"Vijay Mallya, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka with BJP support, is allowed to flee the country though he has fleeced banks of over Rs.9,000 crore," Dhawale said.

Citing statistics, he said that in 2015, as many as 3,228 debt-hit farmers committed suicide in Maharashtra, with the maximum in Vidarbha and Marathwada regions.

Since 1995, a record 65,000 farmers have ended their lives in the state, making it a "graveyard for farmers", he said.

Besides Yechury, AIKS general secretary Hannan Mollah and journalist P. Sainath shall also address the rally.

The rally will mark the culmination of a six-month agitation by MRKS which included public meetings, awareness campaigns, loan-waiver conventions, road blocks, processions and 'jail bharo' with the participation of thousands of farmers across Maharashtra.
Oil ministers from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and non-member countries are looking hard for a recovery in prices, and are hoping their meeting next month will produce an output freeze that can be a first step toward that goal. They're getting some surprise help from Iraq, the member which added more to supply last year than any other country, and that's due in large part to a change in fortunes in Kurdistan. The Kurdish regional government had planned to be overseeing production of one million barrels a day of oil by now. Instead, it faces declining output, ...
Aiming to meet the April 3 deadline set by Jats, the Haryana Cabinet on Monday passed a Bill to provide reservation to the community in government jobs and education, paving the way for introducing it in the legislative Assembly before Thursday.

The draft Bill was cleared at a Cabinet meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal in Chandigarh, official sources said.

The Bill is likely to be tabled in the ongoing Budget session of the state Assembly, which is scheduled to end on Thursday, the sources said.

The BJP government had assured that it would bring the Bill in the ongoing Budget session. Jat leaders had announced that no protest would be held till April 3 if the state government got the Bill passed before that.

The Bill proposes reservation for Jats and four other castes -- Jat Sikhs, Rors, Bishnois and Tyagis -- by creating a new classification in the Backward Classes category, sources said.

The government plans to provide 10% reservation in educational institutions and Class-III and IV government jobs for these communities, they said.

It has proposed 6% reservation for Jats and the four other castes in Class-I and Class-II jobs, sources said.

Apart from giving reservation to Jats, Haryana government has also proposed to bring a separate Bill for the setting up of a permanent Haryana Backward Classes Commission, they said.

Jat leaders have been demanding reservation in the existing Backward Classes (BC) category.

The BC quota is bifurcated into two -- BC-A and BC-B -- having 16 and 11% reservation, respectively.

Jats had last month launched a stir demanding reservation in BC category. The agitation, which had taken a violent turn, left 30 people dead and 320 persons injured and resulted in huge damage to property.

Jat leaders have told the government that in case the reservation breaches the overall 50% ceiling, then the government should include the proposed legislation in the ninth Schedule of the Constitution to save it from judicial review.

"We want that whatever Bill is tabled should be legally tenable," All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti President Yashpal Malik had said.

The decision that no protest would be held till April 3 if the reservation Bill is passed in the ongoing session was announced by Malik here after talks with Haryana Chief Secretary DS Dhesi and DGP Yashpal Singhal on March 18.
Many in the party, especially the old guard, view Prashant Kishor with some amount of suspicion. However, the poll strategist is said to be confident that all factions will fall in line once campaign gains traction. In the last of a two-part series, Business Standard analyses the style and strategy of the man who did the magic for Narendra Modi and then Nitish Kumar, and who is now consulting for the Congress



Prashant Kishor and his team of young professionals, entrusted with the mammoth task of securing victory for the Congress in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh (UP), have got a headstart in the former state, where the team has started working with former chief minister Amarinder Singh. In UP, however, it is yet to pick up steam because the Congress in the state is shackled by organisational shortcomings and an incoherent structure.

Kishor's team, right from the days of the Citizens for Accountable Governance in 2014 and thereafter Indian Political Awareness Committee that handled the Bihar campaign, includes bright graduates from the IITs, IIMs and The Boston Consulting Group. Twenty such youngsters have already started operating from a nodal office at the Congress' 'war room' in Delhi and by the time the election campaigns are in full swing, teams of 100 members each will set up office in Chandigarh and Lucknow, respectively.

The Punjab campaign is slated to kick off from Tuesday, with Singh hitting the road, interacting with party workers across the state, beginning with Gurdaspur. Kishor, according to sources, will thereafter be a frequent face at Singh's residence, operating in close proximity with the leader.

However, the downside of Kishor's model of 24x7 direct access with the leader is that the Congress Legislature Party and the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee are in the dark about the party's election plans and programmes till now. Singh is also PCC chief of the state.

In UP, the team has been carrying out its own surveys on the ground, while Kishor has distributed 14-page forms to Congress district and city presidents seeking their feedback on a range of issues including the dominating castes in their respective regions, reasons for the Congress' poor performance in contrast to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s better performance during the 2014 polls. Kishor has also asked them to identify 20 dedicated party workers from each district, who would be willing to work without craving for a ticket, by Thursday.

According to a former member of Kishor's team, who worked both in the Modi campaign and in Bihar, what sets Kishor's team apart from other agencies is the thorough ground work, possible only by motivated youngsters. "Extensive data mining, research and analysing the results of the past five to six elections provide valuable inputs for generating an effective communication and branding strategy. What we also do is to closely monitor each of the constituencies, stepping in whenever needed to assist party workers."



Kishor's critics, however, see his association with the Congress as a venture fraught with bottlenecks. Both the Congress and UP units have been infamous for factionalism and coteries. This, however, does not worry Kishor, says a party insider. His experience with the BJP in the run-up to the 2014 Lok Sabha polls has shown that once an election campaign gains traction, all factions fall in line. Kishor is said to be unperturbed even by the caste-ridden electoral landscape of UP, possibly banking on how he turned the caste equations in Bihar on its head with the Lalu Yadav-Kumar combine.

Questions were raised as soon as Kishor's assignment was made public to Congressmen. Some in the old guard viewed him as a disruptive force, forcing Shakeel Ahmed, the general secretary in charge of Punjab, to issue a statement, "Prashant Kishor will have no role in organisational matters or in ticket distribution."



But, not all within the party are wary of Kishor's approach. A senior leader who was an integral part of the Congress campaign way back in 1989 recalled how the party had carried out extensive "parivartan rallies" across nine regions in the state. "Despite that effort - I myself was part of the stretch from Ballia to Lucknow - we failed overall. It's time for a fresh approach, for new ideas like those synonymous with Prashant Kishor." He dismisses the concerns of several of his partymen as "petty views" of those afraid to lose "direct access" to the top leadership.

On his part, Kishor has made the effort to 'coordinate' with general secretaries and state PCC chiefs, taking their suggestions and inputs, but "he does not report to them", say insiders.

While partymen fret over what 'PK' and his role will be in the months leading up to the Punjab and UP polls, Kishor himself has made no attempt to speak out or give interviews. He prefers to remain in the background. He has his work cut out for him, in this brief period, which, according to those in the know, is "not to fix the Congress but to fix the public connect with the Congress".
In 2014, though the BJP-led alliance posted a stunning Lok Sabha victory, the Congress drew comfort from the fact that it had a government in eight states. In the past few weeks, the party has seen two states slip out of its grasp and is fighting for survival in a third. Aditi Phadnis analyses the situation as Uttarakhand went under President's Rule on Sunday, hours before the Harish Rawat-led Congress govt was to prove its majority



ARUNACHAL PRADESH :

Read more from our special coverage on "SONIA GANDHI" Country in critical phase: Sonia

The new chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh and chief of the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA), the country's newest political party, formed barely a month before, is an interesting man.

Kalikho Pul has pulled off the seemingly impossible task of breaking the ruling 47-member Congress Legislature Party in the state Assembly (which has 60 members), headed by Nabam Tuki. And, with the help of 11 Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and two independent legislators, forming a government of rebel Congress MLAs.

Pul became a rebel after he was dismissed from the Tuki government in mid-2015. He was finance minister and was shifted to health. When he publicly criticised the way the government was handling its finances, he was dropped from the council of ministers and also expelled from the Congress.

Tuki was, at the time, facing a problem of plenty. With every second legislator a Congressman, it was hard for him to distribute offices.

Two legislators fell out at first. This sounded alarm bells for Tuki, who became strict, verging on the dictatorial. He took signed resignation letters from MLAs, promising them these would stay with him. He controlled the legislative assembly with the help of cousin Nebam Rebhia, whom he appointed Speaker. Tuki relied on the fact that the SR Bommai judgment on defection and the testing of majority was clear - the majority of any government needed to be tested on the floor of the House, not in the Raj Bhavan. As long as he had his man as Speaker, he could control the House.

Pul's first task, then, was to topple the Speaker and replace him. He opted to work on the Deputy Speaker and sought to introduce a motion in the Assembly that argued the Speaker was being dictatorial in his conduct and needed to be replaced.

When Congress MLAs saw Pul had half a chance of succeeding in his mission, many of them decided to back him.

Simultaneously, the Governor ordered that a session of the assembly be convened. When MLAs went to the assembly premises, they found it locked. The assembly was convened in a nearby hotel and the Speaker replaced. The new Speaker allowed a motion of no-confidence to be passed against the government. That done, it was a matter of electing a new legislature party head. Made easier because MLAs loyal to Tuki boycotted the 'session' and BJP members supported the motion. And, Pul became CM on February 19.

MANIPUR :

Restive pot simmers



Nothing in Manipur is as it seems. At the time of forming his ministry in 2012 for a third consecutive term, Chief Minister Ibobi Singh assured the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) members that at the end of two and a half years, there would be a major reshuffle to accommodate some of them. Under the statutory provisions, in a 60-member Assembly, the Chief Minister is allowed a ministry of 12. To circumvent this rule, some prominent legislators were appointed parliamentary secretaries with Cabinet rank. However, dissidents wanted more. Ibobi Singh found this was easier said than done.

Restive legislators said they wanted ministers whose performance was sub-optimal and those perceived as corrupt to be dropped from the council of ministers. They had another condition - that the one man, one post policy be applied strictly. Their target was Gaikhangam, both a minister and the state party chief.

Congress President met representatives of the 25 dissident Congress legislators and decided the party did not want a repeat of Arunachal in Manipur, where rebellion by Congress MLAs brought down its Government.The dissidents have made it known that they would change loyalty, either by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or forming a new party of their own, if their demands are not met.

This is not the only challenge to Singh's government. In the tension between Naga and non-Naga tribes in the state, Gaikhangam who was caught in the crossfire. As Deputy CM and home minister, he reportedly endorsed police action against the Naga Students Front. Later, realising this could become a politically volatile issue, he took action against the police personnel but the damage was done. Nongthombam Biren, Congress MLA, called a meeting of Naga MLAs at his residence and passed a resolution demanding action against Gaikhangam.

In the legislative assembly of 60 members, the ruling Congress party has 48, the Trinamool Congress has five, Naga People's Front has four, the BJP has two and the NCP and LJP one each. If 25 Congress MLAs revolt and join hands with the smaller groups, they can form a government or clear the no-confidence motion against the government.

The situation has not reached that point yet. The Congress high command has summoned Singh and Gaikhangam twice to Delhi in the past week. But, the BJP is beginning to say now the government has lost the confidence of the assembly. Combined with Naga/non- Naga tensions, the situation could escalate unless Governor V Shanmuganathan (holding additional charge of Manipur along with Meghalaya after the death in office of incumbent V Syed) intervenes. Either way, the Manipur government is high on the vulnerability index of state governments that can be toppled.

UTTARAKHAND :

Adversaries from own house



Uttarakhand went under President's Rule on Sunday.

When Raj Babbar was named the Congress candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat from the state, former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna, expecting to be the party's nominee, was very disappointed. For some time, he'd been trying to rehabilitate himself, after the government headed by him was held to be a big failure in dealing with floods in the state. It had resulted in Bahuguna being repl-aced with Harish Rawat.

Rawat then rushed to Delhi and returned to Dehradun the same day, presumably on the strength of some assurances from the high command. He was advised to delay seeking a vote of confidence. Earlier, some party leaders had tried to defuse the crisis by accepting most of the dissidents' demands. However, several BJP leaders claimed that 12 Congress MLAs were in touch with them; the BJP has 28 MLAs.

State Congress chief Kishore Upadhayay had claimed the ruling party MLAs were being offered hefty sums of money. A purported sting operation gave heft to the charge. A few days later, the "conduits" between BJP and Congress - party General Secretary Anil Gupta and Vijay Bahuguna's son Saket - were thrown out of the party. The BJP MLAs were spirited away to Jaipur, presumably to keep them "safe" from allurement. For the moment, the Assembly has been kept in suspended animation - which means the governor will administer the state. But, for the BJP, even if it cannot form the government immediately, it is a major victory. It has been able to topple yet another government, purely by leveraging internal dissidence in the Congress.
It was the Congress that was accused of initiating the misuse of Article 356 or Presidents rule and turning it into a national sport. It used all sorts of excuses: law and order (Kerala, 1959), corruption (Tamil Nadu in 1976 and Manipur in 1979), Babri Masjid (Himachal in 1992). To this, the NDA added misrule (Bihar in 1998, which was withdrawn).

Now, it is once again the NDAs turn. The assembly has been put in suspended animation and the state put under central role.

Where does the SR Bommai judgment come in?

In 1989 the SR Bommai government in Karnataka was dismissed after a section of his own party rebelled and withdrew support to Chief Minister SR Bommai.

Bommai went to court and the Bommai judgment (1993) raised  and clarified  many points. The judgment was clear on at least one point: issues of majority or minority are "not a matter to be determined by the governor or for that matter anywhere else except the floor of the House".

The judgment laid down the conditions under which State governments may be dismissed, and mechanisms for that process.

The judgment stated that the proclamation under Article 356(1) is not immune from judicial review. The Supreme Court or the high court can strike down the proclamation if it is found to be malafide or based on wholly irrelevant or extraneous grounds. If the court strikes down the proclamation, it has the power to restore the dismissed government.

Which means that if the Congress wins its arguments in the Supreme Court, the Rawat government could be restored. Moreover, Parliament will meet again for the resumed budget session. This is important, for the judgment also said:

The governor is like a person wearing two hats. With one, he is the head of the state government and with the other, he is a representative of the President. He is not a mere agent of the President.

President's proclamation should be placed in Parliament within two months and approved.

Even after Presidents rule kicks in, the Supreme Court can revive the Legislative Assembly, which will not be dissolved but kept in a state of suspended animation, if it finds the Presidents proclamation unconstitutional, says constitutional expert Subhash Kashyap. According to senior jurist Rajeev Dhavan, President's rule is not meant to decide moral and political skirmishes between parties about to fight elections. Second, even if the party in power is defeated in the House at the time elections are called, it must continue as caretaker. Rule from New Delhi is hardly the solution.
One person was killed and five others went missing when a jeep fell into Kali river today near Jauljibi on Dharchula road in the district here, a disaster management official said.

While the body of Gopal Singh (48) was recovered, Pushpa Burphal (35), Tina Bora (28), two-year-old Palak Bora and Sujan Singh (44) besides an unknown man are still missing, R S Rana, District Disaster Management Officer of Pithoragarh said.

The Indian authorities were informed about the accident by Nepal police prompting action by State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel posted at the border.

The jeep was swept by strong currents, Rana said, adding, it has not yet been located.
Algeria's Defence Ministry said 12 people have been killed and two seriously injured in a helicopter crash in the Sahara during a reconnaissance mission.

The ministry said in a statement that a "technical failure" apparently caused the helicopter to crash yesterday between the towns of Adrar and Reggan in the Tamanrasset region.

The chief of staff of the Algerian armed forces ordered an investigation into the crash.

The statement did not elaborate on the reason for the mission.

Algeria's security forces sporadically clash with extremists, notably members of Al-Qaida's Algeria-based North Africa branch.
A thousand people have fled Ivory Coast to seek refuge in neighbouring Burkina Faso after clashes between farmers and herdsmen that left at least 17 people dead, officials have said.

A senior official in the Burkinabe province of Noumbiel, on the border with Ivory Coast, said yesterday that as of Sunday, 1,316 people had sought refuge in the region following the deadly clashes in Bouna, the main town in northeast Ivory Coast.

"Most of them are women and children," added the official, who was reached by telephone.

"We have put in place a crisis cell formed of local authorities and emergency services. We have received emergency goods from Ouagadougou -- bedding and food -- but it will not be enough to support these people, who continue to arrive."



The clashes broke out in Bouna on Wednesday night. Violent disputes between nomadic herders and farmers, often over grazing and watering rights, are not uncommon, but such a high death toll is rare.

The farmers complain that their fields are ruined by the passage of herds of cattle.
At least 15 people have died and more are seriously injured after a bus crashed into a ravine in western Guatemala.

Municipal fire department spokesman Mario Utum said today's crash occurred near the township of Nahuala in the Solola department. It was unknown what caused the bus to plunge into the 150-foot chasm.

Utum said men, women and children were among the victims. The bus was bound for Guatemala City.

He said the death toll could rise as several people were seriously injured.
Two persons, who allegedly robbed a foreign exchange trader of around Rs 27 lakh at gunpoint in west Delhi's Moti Nagar area, has been arrested, police said today.

Rajvir and Sunny Bharadwaj were arrested from Dwarka following a tip-off from a gunrunner from whom they purchased a pistol for execution of the robbery, a senior police official said.

Rajvir allegedly planned the entire act and the gang members had met for the first time on the day of the crime, police said.

According to police, the incident took place in the evening before Holi when the gang targeted a 61-year-old Karol Bagh-based forex trader when he was heading home and robbed him of around Rs 15 lakh cash and foreign currency estimated at Rs 12 lakh at gunpoint.

They also fired in the air to disperse a crowd which had gathered there and fled from the spot in a car. In a few days, the police received a tip-off about a person who had a purchased a gun from a particular gunrunner to execute a robbery.

Taking leads from that point, the police arrested Rajvir and Bharadwaj from their hideout in Dwarka.

During interrogation, it emerged that Rajvir, a native of Bahadurgarh in Haryana, was a failed entrepreneur who later used to work for a transporter of dry fruits. He used to travel to Hong Kong and Kolkata for work purpose and became friends with the Karol Bagh-based forex trader.

Rajvir was in desperate need of money to repay loans he had taken as an entrepreneur and it was getting difficult with a job which earned him Rs 20,000 a month, the senior official said.

With the help of his friend, he soon started tracking other forex traders and targeted the 61-year-old because of his age and the proximity of his residence to the Delhi-Haryana border area with which Rajvir was very familiar.

"The gang members took lots of precautions and did not interact with each other before or after the crime. They met only once on the day of committing the crime and did not even introduce themselves to each other," the official said, adding that a hunt is on for the other accused.
Two constables were suspended over a row following their alleged action against a man accused of cow slaughter in Aliganj police station area, police said today.

Ajay Rathi and Mohammad Shoaib were suspended after it was alleged that they beat up one Saleem Banjara and robbed him of Rs 50,000, ASP Visarjan Singh Yadav said.

According to police, several cases in connection with slaughter of cows were registered against Saleem in Mainpuri, Etawah and Aliganj, he said.

Saleem slipped from his motorcycle while he was trying to escape the police, following which the members of the Banjara community blocked the road in the town.

The mob also stormed the police outpost and damaged the furniture there, Yadav said adding PAC and police force have been deployed to ensure law and order.

The charges made by the community against the constables are being investigated.
JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar today compared the alleged onslaught on varsities with Gujarat riots alleging both of them were carried out "with support" from state machinery even as he stressed that there is a fundamental difference between "emergency" and "fascism".

Asserting that there is a difference between 2002 riots and 1984 Sikh massacre Kanhaiya alleged that Gujarat violence was carried out through state machinery while the other was caused due to mob frenzy.

"There is difference between emergency and fascism. During emergency, goons of only one party were engaged into goondaism, in this (fascism) entire state machinery is resorting to goondaism. There is difference between riots of 2002 and 1984 Sikh riots.

"There is a fundamental difference between a mob killing a common man and massacring people through state machinery. Therefore, the threat of communal fascism we are faced with today, there is an attack being launched on universities, because like Hitler, Modi ji doesn't have support from intellectuals in India. No intellectual is defending Modi regime," he added.

Noting the present time is an era of "Islamophobia" , Kanhaiya underscored a need for understanding history first before reaching a conclusion on any issue.

"Today it's an era of Islamophobia. Leave aside the words of terrorism and terrorist. The moment these words will come to your mind, imprints of face of a Muslim person will be there in your mind. This is Islamophobia.

"Connotations, meaning of a word change. Hence, it is important for us to understand history before we reach to conclusion on anything," he said.

Kanhaiya was addressing the gathering during a panel discussion on "Voices of Azaadi" during the "Jashne-e-azaadi" festival which was organised to celebrate the birth anniversary of the late historian Professor Bipan Chandra.

The celebration comes at a time when JNU students have kick started a "nationalism and azaadi debate" across the country after it came under attack for an event on campus against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru during which anti-national slogans were allegedly raised.

Kanhaiya and two more students-Umar Khalid and Anirban



Bhattacharya - were arrested in a sedition case over the event and are out on bail now.

Umar said though they have been released from the confines of Tihar jail but they continue to face threats.

"A very dangerous situation is unfolding before our eyes for all of us. Today also I read a report which said before April 8, some person will come to JNU and shoot down me and Kanhaiya.

"While three of us maybe 'azad' from the confines of Tihar, in this larger prison that our country is becoming, there is a great deal of danger to our lives. Therefore, there remains great restrictions on our Azadi. Our azadi to move, go to field, go out with friends and things like that," he said.

Referring to JNU as a "carnival for demands of freedom", Anirban threw light on the slogans raised in and out of the campus ever since the controversial event took place on February 9.

"The debate here is not about national versus anti-national but between azaadi slogans and that of bharat mata ki jai.

"Everybody thinks that the azadi slogans come from the Kashmir Valley but the truth is it did not emanate either from Kashmir or from JNU but from Kamla Bhasin's movement demanding freedom from patriarchy," he said.

The programme which was divided in four sessions saw historians including Irfan Habib, Mrdiula Mukherjee and Aditya Mukherjee, deliberating upom lives and works of Bipan Chandra,



While Habib spoke of his association and differences on certain points in history with Chandra, Mukherjee spoke about his intellectual journey.
Five persons, who claimed themselves as journalists, were arrested today for allegedly robbing an employee of an Angadia firm of diamonds and gold jewelery worth Rs 22 lakh on Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway recently.

The heist took place in the wee hours of March 15 when the valuables were being brought to Ahmedabad from Surat by the employee, identified as Lalchand Prasad.

The term "Angadia" stands for a traditional courier service wherein angadias carry diamonds, gold, silver etc. from one town to another, apart from mail.

"Based on some specific inputs and CCTV footage, Kheda police have arrested five persons today who have allegedly carried out the robbery near Mahemdavad town on Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway during the wee hours on March 15," stated a press release by Kheda police.

The accused have been identified as Gopal Masraji, Kirtiben Rathod, Vipul Vyas, Sunil Brahmbhatt and Bhavnaben who claimed themselves as journalists working with small publications in capacity as reporters and editors.

Police suspect these small publications could be the front for their activities, but did not elaborate.

Police are looking out for one Arjun who used to work for the Surat-based angadia firm earlier and allegedly hatched the robbery plan.

"When Prasad was on his way to Ahmedabad, some of these accused intercepted his vehicle with three of their cars and robbed the parcels having diamonds and gold worth Rs 22 lakh. Based on the CCTV footage and other inputs, we nabbed Masraji first and then arrested four others," said Kheda SP Manindersingh Puar.

Police have recovered valuables worth Rs 15.45 lakh from these accused.

According to police, Prasad identified Arjun at the time of robbery, as the latter was used to work as driver in the same firm few years back and was aware about the delivery routes.

"All of them are associated with small publications. They hatched the plan upon Arjun's tip off as he knew about movements of goods of that firm," Puar said, adding that further investigation is on.
The AAP government in Delhi today proposed to a build a first-of-its-kind skywalk from the Qutub Minar Metro Station to the iconic minaret in the financial year 2016-17.

"A skywalk way from Qutub Minar Metro Station to the Qutub Minar, a first-of-its-kind, is proposed to be developed in 2016-17. The walkway will go over the Mehrauli Archaeological Complex," Finance Minister Manish Sisodia said while presenting the annual budget.

Qutub Minar, a 12th century brick minaret, is one of the three World Heritage Sites in Delhi, besides Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb, and all three monuments receive massive footfall.

Besides the walkway, the Arvind Kejriwal government has also planned other measures to upgrade tourism infrastructure in the city.

"Delhi is India's capital and its cultural heart and yet the entry to this dynamic national capital territory isn't one that induces awe or a sense of grandeur. Delhi Tourism has received necessary permissions to revamp the borders and will conduct beautification at road entry points of the city like Ghazipur and Dhaula Kuan," Sisodia said.

"I propose Rs 10 crore for development of tourism infrastructure in 2016-17," he said.

The minister further said the Archaeology Department has "conserved 18 monuments in Delhi with plans for 143 more monuments" in the future.

On digitisation works of old documents, he said, "Delhi Archives has done a phenomenal work in digitisation and microfilming of archival records."



On art and cultural front, Sisodia said the Sahitya Kala Parishad conducted dozens of cultural festivals with internationally renowned artists.

"In the coming year, it will also conduct a massive talent hunt with the education department in schools to promote theatre, music, drama and dance among school children," he said.

The AAP government today proposed a plan outlay of Rs 54 crore for promotion of art, culture and language in Delhi in 2016-17.

"There are people of different cultures living in Delhi, and beside big-ticket auditoriums, we also want local celebrations to be held at mohallas, parks and community halls," he said.
Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal today accused Aam Aadmi Party of looting people in the name of "dinner policy" and claimed that the party is nothing more than a B-team of Congress.

"AAP has started looting people in the name of dinner policy by first inviting them for food and then asking them to pay for it," Badal alleged on sidelines of a programme here.

She charged the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has started a "reverse trend" in the land of Punjab where free langar (community kitchen) is served to people.

The Food Processing Minister also claimed that AAP was never "more than a B-team" of Congress as its leaders never took any strong action against "corrupt" Congress leaders of Delhi.

"People of Punjab are vigilant enough to not get carried away by such a party," Badal said.

Attacking the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for his "dual" policy on SYL issue, Badal alleged that he once again "betrayed" people by changing his stand on the issue as per his political interests.

"AAP spends Rs 528 crore annually on publicity instead of investing this hard earned money to provide homes to homeless. AAP has no base in Punjab and it will soon meet its end as PPP did," she said.

Replying to a question she claimed Congress has been "decimated" from Arunachal Pradesh and Uttrakhand and very soon Punjab Congress too will meet the same fate and factionalism in the party will lead to its ultimate downfall in Punjab.

"By pressurising Congress high command, Amarinder Singh has taken the president-ship of state Congress, which the Congress workers have started rejecting," The Lok Sabha MP from Shiromani Akali Dal claimed.

She claimed that under Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, the SAD-BJP government of Punjab has increased the state's annual income to Rs 30,000 crore from Rs 5,000 crore per annum during Congress rule.

She said that during Congress rule from 2002 to 2007 only Rs 22,000 crore were spent on developmental works which stands at mammoth Rs 1, 28, 637 crore during SAD-BJP government from 2007 to 2015.

Earlier, Badal inaugurated sanitary napkin vending machine at Government Senior Secondary School (girls) at Mall Road today. Twenty such machines will be installed at various educational institutes of district.

She said the girls are hesitant to buy sanitary napkins from shops. These machines will help by providing them sanitary napkins right in their educational institutions without any hesitation.
Asian Development Bank today promised to support Nepal in its urgent need to "accelerate" reconstruction work and ensure rapid recovery from the huge loss caused due to powerful earthquakes that claimed over 8,600 lives.

Vice President of Asian Development Bank (ADB) Wencai Zhang called on Prime Minister K P Oli and other senior officials of Nepal and discussed ways to accelerate its economic recovery and develop plans for sustained higher growth.

"There is an urgent need to accelerate reconstruction and implementation of development programmes to prevent a further slowdown in growth and to ensure rapid recovery," Zhang told reporters after the meeting.

"To expedite unhindered implementation of reconstruction works, the Reconstruction Policy and National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) needs to release sufficient budget immediately, enforce fast-track decision making, and adopt building-back-better principles and innovative approaches for time and cost-efficiency," Zhang said.

Zhang, who was on a 4-day visit to Nepal, also met with Nepal's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Top Bahadur Rayamajhi and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel.

Under its partnership strategy with Nepal for 2013-2017, the ADB will prioritise major investments in power generation and transmission, enhancing capacity of international airports, building new economic corridors to promote regional trade and reforming higher education systems.

"ADB will continue its support for inclusive growth through investments in agricultural diversification and productivity, water supply and sanitation and rural roads," Zhang said.

"ADB will work to attract private sector investment and public-private partnerships for large-scale hydropower and transmission projects and high-value agricultural value chains," he said.

ADB has forecast Nepal's economy will grow at 1.5 per cent this year 2016, down from after last year's 3 per cent growth.

"ADB will build on its existing support in the energy sector and will extend assistance for 25 MW grid solar power plants and two major storage hydropower projects - the 300 MW Dudhkoshi plant and the 410 MW Nalsing Gadh plant," he said.

ADB had announced USD 200 million soft loan assistance for carrying out post disaster reconstruction and rehabilitation works after providing USD 3 million immediate grant assistance last year.

A 7.9-magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on April 25 last year and another measuring 7.3 on May 12, leaving 8,635 people dead, 21,845 injured, besides destroying tens of thousands of houses.
An Afghan official says overnight attacks by the Taliban on two police checkpoints in the volatile south killed at least eight policemen.

Col. Almas Kahn, deputy police chief in Helmand province, said on Monday that The attack happened in the Gereshk district yesterday.

Though Kahn blamed the Taliban, the group did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack. Afghan forces have been trying to reduce the number of checkpoints as they are vulnerable to insurgent attacks.

Separately, the Taliban claimed responsibility for firing a series of rockets at Kabul's new parliament building early on Monday. No casualties were reported.

Rockets are occasionally fired at government and diplomatic areas in Kabul, but casualties are rare and the capital has been largely free of deadly attacks for some months.
A US soldier shot and killed an Afghan boy today near an American airfield close to the capital Kabul, a senior Afghan police officer said.

The boy, whose age is unknown, had been carrying what looked like an automatic rifle near the Bagram Airfield, 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Kabul in neighboring Parwan province, said the provincial police chief, Gen. Zaman Mamozai.

An American soldier had warned the boy from a watchtower to stop, he said.

Local people gathered near the base to protest the killing of the boy, but dispersed once they were told about the circumstances, Mamozai said. He said the incident is being investigated.

Bagram officials could not immediately be reached for comment. The US military in Kabul said it was looking into the incident.

Earlier, an Afghan official said overnight attacks by the Taliban on two police checkpoints in the volatile southern province of Helmand killed at least eight police.

Col Almas Kahn, deputy police chief in Helmand, said the attack happened in the Gereshk district around midnight. Though Kahn blamed the Taliban, the group did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack. Afghan forces have been trying to reduce the number of checkpoints as they are vulnerable to insurgent attacks.

Separately, the Taliban claimed responsibility for firing a series of rockets at Kabul's new parliament building early today. No casualties were reported.

Rockets are occasionally fired at government and diplomatic areas in Kabul, but casualties are rare and the capital has seen few deadly attacks in recent months.
Strong winds have pushed an ash cloud from an Alaska volcano into the heart of the state, grounding flights and limiting travel to western and northern communities off the road system.

Pavlof Volcano, one of Alaska's most active volcanoes, is 625 miles southwest of Anchorage on the Alaska Peninsula, the finger of land that sticks out from mainland Alaska toward the Aleutian Islands.

The volcano in the 8,261-foot mountain erupted about 4 PM on Sunday, spitting out an ash cloud that rose to 20,000 feet.

Lightning over the mountain and pressure sensors indicated eruptions continued overnight By 7 AM yesterday, the ash cloud had risen to 37,000 feet and winds to 50 mph or more had stretched it over more than 400 miles into interior Alaska.

"It's right in the wheelhouse of a lot of flights crisscrossing Alaska," said geologist Chris Waythomas, of the US Geological Survey, part of the Alaska Volcano Observatory, along with the University of Alaska and the state Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys.

Alaska Airlines before noon cancelled 20 flights affecting about 1,300 customers heading to Bethel, Kotzebue, Nome, Barrow and Deadhorse, spokeswoman Bobbie Egan said.

No flights to Anchorage or Fairbanks had been cancelled, but Egan said the company was closely monitoring the Fairbanks route.

Volcanic ash is angular and sharp and has been used as an industrial abrasive. The powdered rock can cause a jet engine to shut down. USGS geologists have compared it to flying into a sand blaster.

An eruption of Mount Redoubt in December 1989 sent out an ash cloud 150 miles that flamed out the jet engines of a KLM flight carrying 231 passengers to Anchorage. The jet dropped more than two miles before pilots were able to restart the engines and land safely.

"We just simply will not fly when ash is present," Egan said.

Waythomas had received no reports of ash falling in communities. The closest community, Cold Bay, is 37 miles southwest of the volcano, opposite of where the wind was blowing ash. Geologists call Pavlof an open-system volcano, Waythomas said.
Intensifying the separate Vidarbha demand, former Maharashtra Advocate General Shreehari Aney and ex-MP Datta Meghe have decided to set up a co-ordination committee involving major outfits, spearheading the movement.

Aney met Meghe at his residence here yesterday and had a detailed discussion on the issue.

Notably, Aney, who resigned as Advocate General last week in the wake of his remarks over statehood for Marathwada, has already addressed a couple of meetings at the district and taluka-level across Vidarbha region recently.

"We had a good meeting on spearheading the movement of creating separate Vidarbha. We will hold a meeting on April 8 to set up a much required co-ordination committee which will be represented by Vidarbha Pradesh Vikas Parishad, founded 11 years ago; Jan Manch and Vidarbha Economic Development Council (VED)," Meghe told PTI today.

The former Rajya Sabha MP from NCP, who may not visit Delhi to take part in the sit-in agitation scheduled on March 31 organised by pro-Vidarbha outfits due to preoccupations, said, Aney will not only participate but also explore the possibility of facilitating a combined meeting of pro Vidarbha leaders with top leadership of parties like BSP, AAP and JD(U) there.

It was also decided that people in general may not get involved in the movement at the first go, therefore, creating awareness about the demand is the top priority, Meghe said.
Belgian cyclist Antoine Demoitie has died after he was struck by a motorbike following a fall during the Gent-Wevelgem race in Belgium, police said.

The 25-year-old, a member of Belgium's second-division team Wanty-Gobert, fell around 150 kilometres (90 miles) into the race in Sainte-Marie-Cappel, northern France.

He was then hit by a motorbike while on the ground, before being transported to a hospital in Lille where he succumbed to his injuries.

"The rider died. An inquiry is under way to determine the circumstances," said Frederic Evrard, spokesman for the Nord-Pas-de-Calais regional gendarmerie in France.

The cyclist's team earlier said Demoitie was in a "serious condition" in the hospital's intensive care unit.

"His wife and his family are at his side," the team wrote on Twitter.

The Gent-Wevelgem cobbled classic lived up to its gruelling reputation on Sunday, with riders battling strong winds as they tackled 10 climbs over a 243 kilometre route.

Former Belgian national champion Jens Debusschere was also hospitalised after he sustained a concussion following a heavy crash, his Lotto-Soudal team said.

The race, which includes two ascents of the hills of Kemmelberg, was won by Slovakia's Peter Sagan.

A number of accidents have struck the sport this year, including the death of young hope Romain Guyot.

The 23-year-old Frenchman died in March when he was hit by a truck at a crossroads in the west of the country.

In January, six racers from the Giant-Alpecin team, including German John Degenkolb and French Warren Barguil, were injured in a collision with a car during a training ride south of Valencia.
Belgium today freed the sole suspect charged over last week's Islamic State attacks in Brussels due to a lack of evidence, raising fresh questions about the handling of the case by under-fire Belgian authorities.

Prosecutors had charged the man identified as Faycal C on Saturday with offences including "terrorist murder", and had been investigating the theory that he was a third airport attacker who fled when his bomb failed to go off.

His release comes as a new blow to an inquiry already dogged by accusations that Belgium missed a series of leads in cracking down on a jihadist network linked to the attacks and a similar assault in Paris in November.

Police yesterday released CCTV footage of a third suspect in the March 22 Zaventem airport attack, the so-called "man in the hat" seen with two other men who blew themselves up.

Officials also updated the death toll from the bombings at the airport and at Maalbeek metro station to 35, the worst terror attacks in Belgium's history, after four more people had died in hospital.

Mourners were set to hold an Easter Monday church service in memory of the victims.

The Belgian federal prosecutor's office said in a statement that "the indications that led to the arrest of Faycal C were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry. As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate."



A source close to the inquiry told AFP: "Investigators have established that he was not the 'man in the hat'."



Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou who claimed to be a freelance journalist.

With the manhunt still underway, police released video of a man in a hat and white jacket pushing a trolley with a large bag through the departure hall next to suicide bombers Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.

As Belgium struggles to come to terms with the tragedy, recriminations continue over whether the authorities could have prevented it, as the links to the Paris attacks in which 130 people were killed become clearer by the day.

Bomb-maker Laachraoui's DNA was found on some of the explosives used in Paris.

Metro bomber Khalid El Bakraoui, Ibrahim's brother, is meanwhile believed to have rented a property linked to Paris prime suspect Salah Abdeslam, who was arrested in Brussels on March 18 just yards from his family home after four months on the run.

And Turkey accused Belgium last week of ignoring a clear and present danger after revealing it had deported Ibrahim El Bakraoui as a "terrorist fighter" last year after arresting him near the Syrian border.

Two Belgian ministers offered to resign after the Turkish link emerged.
The sole suspect charged over last week's Brussels attacks was released today following a lack of evidence linking him to the carnage, Belgian prosecutors said.

"The indications that led to the arrest of Faycal Cheffou were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry. As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate," the federal prosecutor's office said in a statement, without giving further details.

Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou who claimed to be a freelance journalist.

Cheffou was charged on Saturday with "taking part in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder".

A source close to the inquiry previously told AFP that prosecutors were looking into the theory that he was the third man seen in CCTV footage alongside two suicide bombers at Zaventem airport.

Belgian police earlier today released some of the CCTV images in a bid to identify the suspect.

In the video, a man in a hat and white jacket is seen pushing a trolley with a large bag through the departure hall next to bombers Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.
An Algerian held in Italy as part of a probe into fake ID documents used by the Paris and Brussels attackers was interrogated but refused to answer questions, a judicial source said.

The suspect, named as Djamal Eddine Ouali, 40, was detained under a European arrest warrant near the southern city of Salerno on Saturday, and questioned yesterday in prison by prosecutors, the judge in charge of the preliminary enquiry said.

Salerno police chief Alfredo Anzalone said he was confident Ouali's extradition to Belgium would be approved. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for Friday.

Ouali was held on Saturday evening at a bus stop in a joint swoop involving anti-terrorism officers and a police special operations unit in the town of Bellizzi, an area with a large population of transient seasonal workers, many from North Africa.

Belgium had issued a European arrest warrant for Ouali, suspected of being part of a criminal network that produced fake documents for illegal immigration.

Brussels prosecutors said the network is thought to have supplied fake ID documents to some of the Islamic State attackers behind the November terror assaults in Paris that killed 130 people.

The false papers were "probably" also used by Salah Abdeslam, the sole surviving Paris attacks suspect, they said.

The probe was still determining whether the same network also produced documents for those behind the March 22 attacks in Brussels that killed 31.

Suspicions were raised after Italian immigration officials checked Ouali's residency permit. Police had been searching for a man with the same name linked to the suspected network since January 6.

Hundreds of digital photographs were then seized from a counterfeiter's workshop, including three of those who planned the attacks in Paris.

One of those photographed was Najim Laachraoui, a suicide bomber at Brussels airport, reports quoted police as saying.
Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Ramvilas Paswan today urged the Nitish Kumar government to take cue from Tamil Nadu and some other states in supplying free of cost foodgrains to the beneficiaries.

"Tamil Nadu and some other states are bearing the consumers' burden of Rs 2 and Rs 3 per kg respectively on purchase of subsidized wheat and price to make foodgrain under the National Food Security Act entirely free of cost for the beneficiaries....The Bihar government too should follow the measure to make foodgrains available to beneficiaries entirely free of cost," Paswan told reporters.

Paswan claimed that the Bihar government does not pay a penny towards delivery of foodgrains to beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act as they pay Rs 2 and Rs 3 on purchase of wheat and rice respectively while the Centre bears the remaining cost at Rs 18 for per kg wheat and Rs 27 for per kg rice respectively.

The Union Food and Consumer Affairs also sought to run over the state government's claim over success of poverty alleviation programme in Bihar saying that the number of beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act increased by Rs 97 lakh at 8.57 crore this year against Rs 7.60 crore in May 2014.

For 8.57 crore food beneficiaries, the Centre allocates 1.83 lakh metric tonne wheat and 2.74 lakh metric tonne rice per month which the Bihar government has been lifting on monthly basis, Paswan said adding state government has lifted 94 per cent foodgrain allocated for March.

Despite the Centre providing foodgrains for distribution to the people, a lot of complaints were being heard from the beneficiaries, the Union Minister alleged adding that his department has issued a control order for end-to-end computerization and constitution of monitoring committee at panchayat level to usher in transparency in distribution of food quota to the beneficiaries.

A central committee will visit Bihar to ascertain if the state government was abiding by the control order or not, he said.
Bihar government today said it will lodge a complaint with Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley over the poor credit-deposit ratio (CDR) of commercial banks in the state.

Replying to a starred question by BJP MLA Brij Kishor Bind, state Finance Minister Abdul Bari Siddique told the Assembly that the commercial banks' credit ratio against deposit by the people of Bihar was less than desirable.

Bind had asked the minister as to why the state government was depositing 90 to 95 per cent money of various departments in commercial banks despite none of them being headquartered in Bihar against non-deposit in banks like Uttar Bihar Grameen Bank, Madhya Bihar Grameen Bank and Bihar Grameen Bank, all of them being headquartered in the state and with the state government having 15 per cent holding in them.

On intervention by some other legislators as to why the state government departments were depositing cash with those commercial banks who were not improving their CDR and social responsibility to the people of Bihar, Siddique said there was a guideline for deposit of public money in banks under which the deposits are made in only those banks which meet the cut off point at 35 or more in terms of CDR.

No public money will be deposited in those commercial banks which fail to meet the cut off point, the finance minister said.

(Reopens CES11)



The finance minister informed the Assembly that the Credit-Deposit Ratio (CDR) of commercial banks in Bihar are discussed during quarterly meeting between the state government and the State Level Bankers' Committee (SLBC) and many a times the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has raised the issue of the banks' not fulfilling social responsibility and about the CDR not being proportionate to people's deposit in Bihar.

BJP MLA from Bagaha, R S Pandey, a former Union petroleum secretary, intervened during the minister's reply claiming that as per his information, the CDR of commercial banks' in Bihar stood at less than 30 per cent against the national average at 60 and demanded a special norm to compel these banks to improve their credit ratio to the people of Bihar at par with the national average.
Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh today charged Bihar government with failing to fully utilise funds allocated to it by the Centre to boost agriculture, which he said does not even figure in the state government's '7-point agenda' of development.

The Centre has doubled its allocation to Bihar for development of agriculture, but the Nitish Kumar government has not utilised the funds due to its insensitivity towards the farmers, the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister told reporters here.

The Grand Alliance government has also failed to take advantage of various central schemes for development of farm sector much to the chagrin of the farmers of the state, Singh said.

Hitting out at the chief minister, Singh, MP from Purvi Champaran, said the Bihar government does not even have agriculture sector in the seven resolves (saat nischay) of its priority areas of governance.

Stating that Bihar has unlimited potential for growth in farm sector, Singh said the Centre has launched various schemes for development of agriculture in the eastern states, which must draw optimum advantage from such programmes.

The Bihar government must work in tandem with the Centre for development of agriculture sector in the state, he said.
Bihar government today said that the process of separation of crime investigation and law and order duty would be completed within three months in all the police stations across the state.

It would help in carrying out speedy completion of investigation within a specific time frame and ensure a proper vigil on law and order situation in the state.

"In order to complete speedy investigation of the case and to keep a proper vigil on law and order, the process of separating 'investigation' and 'law and order' wing of the police has been completed in 178 police stations of the state.

The process of separation of the work would be completed in the remaining police stations would be completed by June 2016," incharge minister for Home Department Bijendra Prasad Yadav said.

There are around 940 police stations across the state.

Yadav was replying to the budgetary demand of Rs 7200.97 crore for Home Department which was passed by the assembly amid a boycott by NDA members led by leader of opposition Prem Kumar.

Yadav elaborated about the steps being taken by the state government to improve policing for providing a better law and order situation in the state.

In view of increasing cyber cases, the government has taken a decision to set up a separate 'cyber cell' in each of the police district, Yadav said adding that at present the work of cyber crime is handled by Economic Offence Unit of the state police.

In order to keep a strict vigil on criminals especially case of eveteasing, Yadav said that the process of installing CCTVs in all the district headquarters is currently underway.
A blacklist maintained by the central government imposing visa restrictions on Sikhs settled abroad has been pruned, reportedly following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention.

The Prime Minister's "intervention" came after Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal wrote a letter urging him to remove names of 36 Sikhs settled overseas from the "secret blacklist", maintained by the government.

Some names have been removed from the blacklist after detailed discussions among various stakeholders, official sources said.

The blacklist, which was prepared at different levels by security agencies, has been maintained by the government on mostly Indian-origin people allegedly involved in subversive or anti-India activities abroad.

Such people, whose names figure in the blacklist, are barred from visiting India.

The Punjab Chief Minister had urged Modi after he became Prime Minister in 2014 to direct the Home Ministry to evolve a mechanism for a regular review of all such cases.

Badal had said he wanted removal of the names of persons from the list against whom no cases or legal proceedings were pending.

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal too had written a letter to Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh to review the blacklist of Sikhs and delete names of the persons who were not wanted in any criminal case in the state.

A delegation of British Sikhs too had urged the Prime Minister for removing the names of Sikh individuals from the list.

During the 1980s and 1990s, a large number of Sikh families had migrated to the US, Canada, the UK, Germany and other countries seeking political asylum.

Many of the asylum seekers were booked in cases in India and have not been allowed to visit India in the past decades. Official sources said the blacklist contains several thousand names.
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff could see her coalition disintegrate this week amid a political crisis that threatens to topple her government, as a congressional committee ponders impeachment proceedings against her.

Already the Brazilian bar association has said it will file a new request today to Congress for her impeachment.

But Rousseff's real troubles begin on Tuesday, in the capital of Brasilia, when her major coalition partner, the centrist PMDB party, will in all likelihood formalize its break with her government.

The PMDB, which has 69 deputies and is the biggest party in Congress, is led by Vice President Michel Temer, who would serve out the rest of Rousseff's term if she is impeached, until the winner of the 2018 presidential election takes office.

The 75-year-old politician has not done so much as lift a finger to defend the president in recent weeks, even as her impeachment proceedings unfolded against a backdrop of deep recession and mass protests.

Instead, he met last Monday with opposition leader Aecio Neves, who narrowly lost the 2014 election to Rousseff, to discuss the future of the nation.

Since the beginning of March, millions of Brazilians -- especially those skewing whiter, wealthier and better-educated, who are clustered in the megacities of Brazil's southeastern industrial corridor -- have marched to demand Rousseff's ouster. Her backers from the left have held their own demonstrations, with much smaller crowds.

According to O Globo newspaper, 80% of PMDB's leadership members could vote in favor of a break from the coalition.

And other parties could follow suit, including the Progressive Party (PP), which has 49 deputies.

The impeachment case is based on accusations that Rousseff doctored the government's accounts to boost public spending during her 2014 re-election campaign and hide the depth of a recession last year.

With her coalition splintering, Rousseff called her predecessor and mentor, former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to the rescue, naming him her chief of staff.

But the move blew up in her face when a judge released a wire-tapped phone call suggesting that the appointment -- which would have given Lula ministerial immunity -- was really aimed at saving the ex-president from arrest on pending money-laundering charges linked to Brazil's ongoing Petrobras scandal.

The episode caused a new wave of ant-Rousseff protests and has driven the country's executive and judiciary branches into a standoff.
A British tourist who was stabbed in the head during a robbery in San Francisco died after being hospitalised for more than a month, police said.

Paul Tam, 48, of Manchester, died on Thursday at San Francisco General Hospital, where he was taken after the February 18 attack, said San Francisco Police Officer Albie Esparza.

Tam was walking with his niece when he was attacked by a couple. Tam tried to hold onto his messenger bag but was stabbed in the head by the male suspect, Esparza told the San Francisco Chronicle.

His niece, who is from Southern California, was not injured, San Francisco Police Officer Carlos Manfredi said.

Security video released Friday by police shows the attacker chasing Tam onto a street, stabbing him while he's on the ground and taking his bag before running away.

"As he is going around the vehicle he falls down, it's at that point that the suspect not only wanted to take the victim's bag, but he wanted to take his life," Manfredi told San Francisco television station KGO.

Police have yet to make an arrest in the attack, which is now being investigated as a homicide.

The San Francisco Police Officer's Association is offering a USD 5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the two suspects.
The main opposition Congress today staged a walkout from Chhattisgarh Assembly after expressing unhappiness over the government's reply regarding the delay in clearing dues of labourers under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

Taking up the issue under the Calling Attention Motion, Congress MLAs Girwar Janghel, Daleshwar Sahu and Motilal Dewangan raised the matter pertaining to the pending payments to labourers under the scheme in drought-hit districts of Rajnandgaon and Janjgir-Champa.

"To ensure relief to villagers hit by drought in Rajnandgaon district, the administration had started a series of works under MGNREGA in different villages.

"Despite the unavailability of funds, the administration had started works under the scheme and now villagers are wandering in government offices for receiving payment against their works.

"By March 1 this year, the administration had carried out works to the tune of around Rs 110 crores in 500 panchayats of the district and payments have been released for few works," Janghel said.

The MLA claimed that the payment of around Rs 2.5 crore is pending in Manpur block, Mohla (Rs 2.5 crore), Chowki (Rs 1 crore), Chhuriya (Rs 2.5 crore), Chhuikhadan (Rs 3 crore), Dongargaon (Rs 2.25 crore), Dongargarh (Rs 3 crore), Khairagarh (Rs 5.5 crore) and Rajnandgaon block (Rs 3 crore).

"While the villagers are reeling under financial crisis due to pending payment, the officials seem to be least concerned to clear their pending payments," Janghel alleged.

Other Congress MLAs said it was mentioned that payment of works carried out under MGNREGA should be released within a period of 15 days.

"Despite this, the payment of labourers in Janjgir-Champa district is pending from last several months," they said, adding a massive resentment is prevailing among labourers and common people.

In his reply, Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Ajay Chandrakar said, "It was correct that works under MGNREGA were started by the administration to provide employment opportunities to drought-affected villagers in Rajnandgaon.

"Similarly, it is also correct that payment to the tune of around Rs 31.93 crore is pending in the blocks".

He said the administration has carried out works worth over Rs 150 crore under MGNREGA scheme in more than 750 village panchayats by March 27 this year and that payment of about Rs 109.24 crore has been disbursed.

The minister further informed that the payment against works carried out in the district under MGNREGA in financial years 2013-14 and 2014-15 have been completed.

"Out of 16,071 works sanctioned under the scheme in 2015-16, around 9,268 have been started. Presently, 5,519 works are ongoing under the scheme and around 24,756 labourers are engaged in it.

"As per the policy of government of India, disbursement of payment to labourers under the scheme is being done through bank and post-office," the minister said.

He said it was "incorrect" to say that villagers had to wander government offices for payments.

However, dissatisfied with his reply, the Congress members started raising slogans and walkout from the House.
In fresh trouble for NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) today filed a 17,400 page charge sheet against the former state minister in a case of alleged kickbacks received in the award of contract of central library of Mumbai University at Kalina campus here.

Bhujbal is presently lodged in the Arthur Road jail after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 14 in a money laundering case in connection with Maharashtra Sadan construction scam. He is in judicial custody till March 31.

The ACB today filed voluminous charge sheet comprising documentary evidence against Bhujbal and six others, including officials from state Public Works Department, for criminal conspiracy, corruption, cheating and forgery under various sections of Prevention of Corruption Act and Indian Penal Code.

The ACB case against Bhujbal and the other accused is that they caused huge losses to state government by leasing out a plot to a private developer at a very low rate for which the accused persons received huge kickbacks.

According to ACB, the case involves a prime plot at suburban Kalina belonging to Mumbai University, which granted a four-acre plot to the State to construct a library.

The PWD, under Bhujbal, allegedly issued tenders to construct the library in 2009 on one portion of the plot, and allegedly leased out the remaining land to a well known developer for 99 years, at Re 1 per square metre, which the ACB said is illegal.

The revenue department was kept in the dark about this deal and the collector was not informed, the ACB has alleged.

This is the second charge sheet filed by ACB against Bhujbal this year. The first charge sheet was filed in February against Bhujbal and 16 others in connection with the Maharashtra Sadan scam.

The probe against Bhujbal began after the Bombay High Court while hearing a PIL by Aam Aadmi Party constituted a special investigation team comprising ACB and ED to look into the allegations.

ED in its case had alleged that Bhujbal and his family received kickbacks for awarding various government contracts, including the Maharashtra Sadan in Delhi, to the tune of Rs 870 crore.
A court in Gandhinagar today framed charges against self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, paving the way start of trial, more than two years after the police filed a charge-sheet against him and six others in a rape case.

A Surat-based woman has accused Asaram of raping her repeatedly during her stay in his ashram here.

The framing of charges was delayed because the police could not bring Asaram to the court as he is in a Jodhpur jail in connection with another rape case.

The police and Asaram's lawyers agreed that he can appear through video-link. Accordingly, Asaram appeared before the sessions judge Rizwana Ghoghari via a video-link today.

He denied the charges against him when asked by the court. He also requested the court to conduct the trial at the earliest. The court set April 13 as the next date.

In the present case, he is also charged with illegal confinement and conspiracy. Six others are charged with conspiracy along with Asaram -- his wife Lakshmi, daughter Bharti and his women followers Dhruvben, Nirmala, Jassi and Meera.

The younger sister of the complainant has levelled the allegation of rape against his son Narayan Sai who too has been arrested by Surat police.

The elder sister has accused Asaram of sexual assaults between 1997 and 2006 when she was living in his Ashram on the outskirts of Ahmedabad city.
Arrest of two journalists by police in the insurgency-hit Bastar region rocked the proceedings of Chhattisgarh Assembly today with the main opposition Congress alleging that the scribes are being falsely implicated for writing against government and police, a charge denied by the government.

The House was adjourned twice on the issue following a ruckus created by the Congress members who expressed dissatisfaction over government's reply on the issue.

Senior Congress MLA andparty's state unit president Bhupesh Baghel raised the issue after Question Hour and sought a discussion on the alleged harassment of journalists by police in Bastar by moving an adjournment motion notice in the House.

He was supported by 35 legislators of his party on the issue.

Subsequently, Speaker Gaurishankar Agrawal informed that 36 Congress MLAs have submitted the adjournment motion notice on the issue and read it out.

Reading out the notice, Speaker said, "Under the democratic system of the country, it is the fundamental right of the citizens to express their opinion freely but police are dictating in the state.

"The fourth pillar of democracy - 'Press' and journalists are being deliberately targeted under a conspiracy. Journalists are being harassed and implicated in false cases in Bastar region," he said quoting the notice.

As per the notice, "On March 21, a Dantewada-based scribe, Prabhat Singh was picked up by police clad in civil clothes in evening and later taken to Parpa police station where he was thrashed. He was booked under section 66, 67 and 67 (A) of the Information Technology Act".

"In this line, another journalist of Dantewada, Deepak Jaiswal was arrested by Geedam police. Notably, Jaiswal had exposed cheating during an examination in Geedam high school.

"Later the examination centre head lodged a case against Jaiswal but he was arrested suddenly after several months of the case registered against him which clearly indicates that it was preplanned action against him," the notice stated.

The notice stated that National Human Rights Commission has sought a reply from the state government over the arrest ofSingh.

"Similarly on February 7, a so-called social organisation had pelted stones at the house of journalist Malini Subramaniam in Mahaveer Nagar of Jagdalpur branding her as a naxal.

"Despite 24 hours of the incident, the report was not lodged by the police," it added.

However, the government dismissed the Congress' charge.
Condemning the deadly terrorist attack in Lahore, China today said it stands by Pakistan even as it extended support to its close ally in the fight against terrorism.

China is "greatly shocked by" and "condemns the brutal attack in the strongest possible terms," Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Hong Lei told a media briefing here.

He also expressed condolences for the victims and their families.

"We are standing together with Pakistani people at such a hard time. China will provide firm support for the Pakistani government and people to fight terrorism and maintain the country's stability and safety," Hong said, a day after 72 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack at an Easter gathering in Lahore.
Scam artists, drug cartels and gangs from around the world have found a new haven for laundering money: China.

The country's well-developed underground financial networks have caught the attention of foreign criminals who are using China to clean their dirty money and pump it back into the global financial system largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement, an Associated Press investigation has found.

As China globalized, sending people and money abroad, so too did its criminal economy. Gangs from Israel and Spain, cannabis dealers from North Africa and cartels from Mexico and Colombia have laundered billions in China and Hong Kong, slipping their ill-gotten gains into the great tides of legitimate trade and finance that wash through the region, according to police officials, European and U.S. Court records and intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

Gilbert Chikli, a convicted French-Israeli con man, understands China's allure. He is widely credited with devising a scam so successful that it has inspired a generation of copycats. Called the fake CEO, fake president or business email compromise scam, the fraud has cost thousands of companies, many of them American, USD 1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI.

"China has become a universal passageway for all these scams," said Chikli. "Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."



China's central bank and police refused repeated requests for comment. In a regular briefing with reporters Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said "is not, has not been, nor will be in the future a center of global money laundering."



Chikli made millions by impersonating top executives and intelligence agents and convincing employees at some of the world's largest companies to transfer money to his bank accounts, according to French legal documents. He told the AP he laundered 90 percent of that stolen money through China and Hong Kong.

"It's immense," he said in an interview at his sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port town on the Mediterranean. A French court convicted Chikli last year of defrauding five companies of 6.1 million euros La Banque Postale, LCL bank, HSBC, Accenture and Thomson, a French technology company. He was also convicted of attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others, including Barclays, American Express and the company that runs Disneyland Paris.

He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison and fined 1 million euros.
A Chinese man returned a rare Assam macaque to a nature reserve in Yunnan Province, after keeping it as a pet for 14 years, the local nature reserve bureau said.

Last Wednesday, the bureau received a call from a villager saying that he wanted to free a monkey he raised.

"We went to his home and found an Assam macaque, a protected animal, but the villager did not seem to be aware of that,"Wang Xinwen, a member of bureau staff said.

The macaque is about 15 years old and weighs 30 kg, Wang said.

There are only about 8,000 Assam macaques in China.

Cha Xuan, the man who kept the macaque in his home, said 14 years ago he saw people capturing the animal and felt sorry for it because its hands were injured, so he bought it and took it home, state-run Xinhua agency reported.

Over the years, he built a deep connection with the macaque but when the animal became agitated this spring, Cha decided he wanted him to return to the forest to find a mate.
Chinese military has announced that it will halt all paid public services such as hospitals and hotels to people within three years as part of reform to weed out corruption in the 2.3-million-strong world's largest army.

The Central Military Commission (CMC)headed by Chinese President Xi Jinxing has called for an end to all paid services of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the People's Armed Police Force, the PLA Daily reported.

As per the announcement the CMC, which is the supreme body of all the PLA forces planned to completely stop paid services within three years.

"Paid services can sometimes encourage corruption and the military should focus on national defence," Gong Fangbin, a professor at the PLA's National Defence University, told state-run Global Times.

Paid public services refer to services provided by the military to the public, such as military-run hospitals, hotels or others that do not pose a security risk, Gong said, adding that such services may be managed by social organisations in the future.

Services related to social security can be conducted within the military under the system of civil-military integration, official media here reported.

The announcement said all the military units should halt new projects or contracts involving paid services, and that expired contracts should not be renewed.

"The announcement also aims to improve the military's combat capability," Gong said.

A PLA Daily editorial published yesterday also said that military should focus on how to win wars.

"Profits will distract the military from strengthening its combat capabilities," it read.

A large number of high ranking Generals of the PLA have been either punished or being prosecuted in the massive corruption campaign launched by Xi in the last three years.

The government also announced plans to trim the PLA by retrenching three lakh troops.

The military has also undergone huge structural changes with China recently implemented a series of reform measures to enhance the ruling Communist Party of China's (CPC)leadership over the military and boost the PLA's combat capabilities by establishing a more modern military system.

Under new reforms, China has recategorised its seven military area commands into five theatre commands to beef up the military's combat capabilities and enhance its ability to face new challenges by improving response efficiency through a joint command system.

Chinese forces had been engaged in business activities to make up for insufficient military spending since the 1980s.

In 1998, the CPC required the military and armed police to halt all business activities, only allowing some designated organisations and industries to provide paid services, state-run Xinhua Agency reported.
CIA director John Brennan visited Moscow in early March to discuss Syria and put the case for the departure of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, a US official said today.

While meeting Russian officials, the spy agency chief "reiterated the US government's consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria, and the need for Assad's departure," the US official told AFP.

Brennan also stressed "the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria," the US official said.

Russian deputy foreign minister Oleg Syromolotov confirmed Brennan's visit earlier today, telling journalists that "the fact that Brennan was here was not hidden," Interfax agency reported.

"I know for sure that he was at the Federal Security Service (FSB)," Syromolotov added referring to the successor to the Soviet era KGB.

Syromolotov said Brennan did not visit the foreign ministry but did meet several other officials.

The senior diplomat denied that Brennan's visit was linked to Russia's decision announced on March 14 to withdraw most of its forces from Syria, calling the events "absolutely unconnected."



Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that he could not comment, adding that Brennan had "no contacts with the Kremlin".

In November last year Brennan said in Washington that the CIA had been working closely with Russia to discuss the threat of the Islamic State group "despite the policy difference we may have in Syria and Ukraine.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje today inaugurated a multi speciality dialyses unit with a 12-bed capacity at SRG hospital in her legislative constituency of Jhalawar.

"The new dialyses unit in Jhalawar would provide services to thousands of people of the area and they would not need to go out to Kota or somewhere far for dialyses," Raje said.

"There are currently ten lakh liver patients in the country with an average yearly addition of 1.50 lakh new patients, she said claiming that dialyses facility is accessible only to 15 percent of those patients.

Around 10 percent of the total kidney patients are forced to go out of their area for dialyses, the Chief Minister said, adding that every district of Rajasthan would be furnished with a dialyses unit in near future.

Referring to state governments Bhamsha Health Insurance Scheme, Raje claimed that over 43,000 families have benefited under the scheme so far and 850 additional government and private hospitals coordinated under the same.

Under Arogaya Rajasthan, a health survey was carried among 1.5 crore rural families of the state and these families would be connected to Bhamasha health insurance scheme through e-health card.

The 12-bed dialyses unit in the hospital was set up under PPP (public-private-partnership) mode and MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) for the same was signed by Jhalawar Medical college with Biomade Academy LLP supported by Nipro from Japan in November last year.

(Reopens NRG39)



Vasundhara Raje today announced that facility of dialysis will be available across the state.

She said that since the number of kidney patients have been increasing due to rising number of diabetic patients therefore the government will now make available the facility in all the districts.
Congress MLAs created uproar in the Assembly today demanding a fresh and updated statement from Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria on the Nagaur shootout in which left one police constable was killed on March 21.

During the Zero Hour, Leader of Opposition Rameshwar Dudi alleged that the statement given by Kataria regarding gangster Anandpal, who managed to escape from custody of police last year, was untrue.

Congress deputy whip Govind Singh Dotasara alleged the statement given by the minister (on March 22) was different from today's facts and demanded a fresh statement from him.

Deputy Speaker Rao Rajendra Singh said since the assembly is not going to adjourn sine die, therefore they should wait for the government's response.

Congress MLA Pradhyuman Singh said there was contradiction in the Home Minister's statement on March 22 and a fresh statement should be made.

Singh claimed the facts mentioned in the Home Minister's reply earlier were different from the facts which have appeared in some newspapers now.

Meanwhile, Parliamentary affairs minister Rajendra Rathore said the opposition should raise issue as per the rules of the House.

Kataria also said he would respond to every single point of the opposition but they should be as per the rules of the House.

The Assembly functions as per rules and they should also follow it, Kataria said.

The members shouted slogans and created uproar in the House over the issue.

During the Question Hour, Congress MLAs staged a walk out to express their dissatisfaction over the reply of query on withdrawal of subsidy on gaushalas by agriculture minister Prabhu Lal Saini.

Deputy leader of Opposition Ramesh Meena, who asked the question, also staged a dharna for brief period in the well of the House when he was not satisfied with the answer.

A police constable Khuma Ram was killed and another injured whenthree persons opened fire at the policemen in Nagaur district on March 21.
Congress today slammed the government for hosting Pakistan's probe team on Pathankot terror attack, saying it was "like asking murderer to come and investigate as to who murdered the child."



"They (government) are rolling out a red-carpet - it is like asking murderer to come and investigate as to who murdered the child," party spokesman R P N Singh told reporters here when asked whether the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) of Pakistan should not have been allowed to come here.

The former Minister of State for Home Affairs said "more shocking" is that no 'Letter Rogatory' has been signed between the two countries prior to the visit.

"That means all the evidence given to Pakistan will have no value once they go back to Pakistan because there is no Letter Rogatory signed," Singh said, questioning "what is the great reason to get the Pakistan team here?"



Contending that there has been no coordination in the Narendra Modi dispensation on such a sensitive issue, Singh said it is "extremely shocking" as to what is happening as far as internal security is concerned in this country.

"It is shocking that the Home Minister of this country goes on Television and says that he has no idea when the JIT is going to come. It is being investigated by the NIA - the NIA reports to the Home Ministry of this country," he said.

He then referred to comments by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar that the JIT will not be allowed to visit the Air Base and said, "These are the things which are clarified before."



Referring to the 26/11 terror strikes in Mumbai, Singh said, "We have seen what happened when those dastardly murderous attacks place in Mumbai. We have given them a water-tight case of the involvement - they have not done anything about it till today.
The issue of compensation to drought-affectedfarmers rocked the Chhattisgarh Assembly today with the opposition Congress staging a walk-out over Revenue Minister Premprakash Pandey's reply.

During the question hour,Congress's Girwar Janghel raised the issue of compensation being paid to farmers in Rajnandgaon district.

He asked which tehsil/development block in the district had been declared as drought-hit, how many villages in Khairagarh district had been declared drought-hit and whether'anawari' (crop yield) survey had been conducted in these areas.

Minister Pandey informed that tehsils of Chhuikhadan, Khairgarh, Rajnandgaon, Ambagarh-Chowki, Mohla,Manpur, Dongargaon and Chhuria had been declared as drought-hit.

Janghelalleged that compensation was not paid to all thedrought-hitfarmers.

Senior Congress MLA Dhanendra Sahu said the Government had not published any survey report on crop loss, but was claiming to have paid compensation to thefarmers.

State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said earlier a district/ tehsil/ block or villages were considered as the unit for measuring crop loss but the BJP Government changed this and made individual farmerthe unit.

The minister said the state cabinet had made this amendment under revenue book circular for farmers' benefit.

Not satisfied with the reply, Congress legislators started shouting slogans, accusing the Government of ditching thefarmers and staged a walk-out.
The opposition Congress has given a breach-of-privilege notice in the Gujarat Assembly against Chief Minister Anandiben Patel, accusing her of "misleading" the House about the Justice M B Shah Commission report when she was Revenue Minister in 2013.

The notice, seeking the Speaker's permission to move breach-of-privilege motion against Patel, was given by the senior Congress MLA Raghavji Patel a week ago.

During today's proceedings in the Assembly, Raghavji sought to know the status of his notice from Speaker Ganpat Vasava.

"As the current session is about to end (on March 31), I want to know what happened to my notice," he said.

Vasava said he had received the notice and the matter was still under consideration. Vasava also asked Raghavji not to discuss the issue in the House as the final decision had not been taken yet.

Justice M B Shah Commission was set up in 2011 to probe the allegations of corruption levelled by Congress against the Narendra Modi-led BJP Government of Gujarat. It submitted the final report at the end of 2013 to the state government.

"During an Assembly session in 2013, I asked the Government why it was not tabling the report....On this, (Anandiben) Patel (then Revenue Minister in Modi's cabinet) stated the report had been sent to Governor. She asked me to collect it from the Governor instead of bothering her," Raghavjee told PTI.

"When we inquired at Governor's office, we were informed that the state Government never submitted this report. So I have given a notice of breach-of-privilege against her, as she had misled the House then," said the MLA.

Congress MLAs today also staged a brief walk-out over delay in tabling of the Commission's report in the Assembly.
Making a veiled attack on Rahul Gandhi, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the Congress' decline is due to problems of its leadership and compared it to an "obsolete car" manufacturer who could survive in the past due to monopoly but not now.

"If you look state after state, the Congress party is losing a lot of its leaders. I see two particular reasons for it. A party, which has dominated India's for six decades and has been in power for almost 50 years or so, has suddenly started taking positions, which mainstream parties should not take. Their success is now measured by how much they can obstruct," the finance minister said.

"Secondly the pitfalls of the leadership, which is not merit based is clearly being reflected.... And one of the principal grievances, a lot of its tall leaders have had, was the inability to communicate with the central decision makers or decision maker," Jaitley told PTI in an interaction.

Noting that there are still a large number of political parties, which depend upon the "crowd around a family", the finance minister said that the strength of these parties will depend on the capacity of that current generation to hold it together. "And I think the Congress is losing out on that," he said.

Listing the problems being faced by Congress in a number of states like Kerala, Assam, Arunchal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the finance minister said that the "shrinking" of Congress base was also happening in Punjab, where elections are due next year.

"If you prepare a list of all the big business houses or 20 big business houses before 1991 and compare them with the top 20 in 2016, how many in the list are common," he said.

"The pre-1991 belonged to the family owned companies, beneficiaries of the license regime, those who prevented competition and prevented others from entering. Even if you manufacture an obsolete car, you were near monopoly player because others were all swept," said Jaitley, adding, "Post 1991, that changed. I think to a large extent, it is symbolic of what's happening to India. You take any profession. Just because your father was a great lawyer or you were doctor or you had family business does not matter."

Noting that India's character is also changing to be more youthful, certainly post independence generation, he said that is why state after state, one will now find merit-based leadership.

"There is still a large number of political parties, which crowd around a family. Their strength will depend on the capacity of the current generation to hold it together. And I think the Congress is losing out on that," he said, adding that "in the few states left with the Congress, it does not seem to be doing very well".

Citing examples, he said, "Factionalism in Kerala has spoilt its image. In Tamil Nadu it is virtually being decimated. In West Bengal it has shrunk. In Assam there has been its major leaders leaving the party, joining the BJP. In states like Delhi, if you saw, they shrank to eight per cent popular vote. The ruling party of the last time shrank to an eight per cent popular vote."

"These trends continue. I can almost see the shrinkage happening in Punjab also. I think this is going to cost it heavily in Assam. It cost them in Arunachal Pradesh," he added.

Calling the political crisis in an internal problem of Congress, Jaitley said, "They lost a chunk of leaders because the leaders felt that their central leadership was not available even for a meeting or speaking to them."

Jaitley was apparently alluding to earlier remarks by rebel Congress leader from the state, Harak Singh Rawat, who had ridiculed the Congress vice-president for meeting the "sedition accused" JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar while remaining "too busy" to speak to Congress leaders from Uttarkhand, who had raised a banner of revolt against Chief Minister Harish Rawat.

Jaitley also attacked Congress on its role over the JNU row, saying "modertate Left and Congress got trapped into something which was otherwise a movement by the ultra left" and asserted that a mainstream party like Congress cannot do the of fringe.
The Centre has issued directives to cotton-producing states like Punjab and Haryana to ensure timely sowing of the crop and use of only recommended seeds for preventing white fly attack, which caused significant damage to the crop last year.

States have been directed to keep a close watch on the movement of white fly and ensure timely sprinkling of pesticides to check its menace.

"Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Ministry has issued extensive directives to the states producing cotton to check the adverse affect of white fly on cotton," an official statement said today.

The directives have been issued in view of the "likely menace to the crop of cotton in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan from white fly", it said.

White fly had inflicted tremendous damage to cotton last year in Punjab and Haryana.

The Agriculture Ministry has taken various preventive measures in this regard which includes elaborate assessment and analysis about the loss inflicted last year.

The Central Cotton Research Regional Centre, Sirsa (Haryana) has recently held a meeting with officials of the Agriculture Ministry, scientists of ICAR and senior officials of Departments of Agriculture from Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan to look into the matter.

"After the review, the Government of India has forwarded extensive directives to Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

"The directives say that the sowing process may be carried out within the precincts of scheduled timeframe, only recommended seeds might be utilised, close watch might be kept on the movement of pests and timely sprinkling to check its spread," the statement said.

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has also provided a list of the pest-resistant seeds for the farmers. "This year emphasis is being given on the timely sowing of cotton".

The sowing process of cotton would set in from the beginning of April in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

India's cotton output is estimated to be 353 lakh bales for the 2015-16 season, which began on October 1, as against 382.75 lakh bales in the previous year, according to Cotton Association of India (CAI).

Crop damage in the northern region due to the white fly attack this year remains a cause of concern, CAI had said.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, the Haryana government had announced compensation of Rs 967 crore for farmers whose cotton crop was damaged due to the white fly and Leaf Curl virus attack during last kharif season.
An outfit of backward Thevar caste here has alleged the recent suspected honour killing of a Dalit youth in neighbouring Tirupur district was being used by certain parties to tarnish the image of the community and urged police to rein such elements.

In a memorandum to police, more than 100 members belonging to the Thevar community alleged that "the issue between two families" was being used to take political advantage by VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan, Puthiya Tamizhakam leader K Krishnasamy and another Dalit outfit leader John Pandian, through public meetings.

Besides, they were using abusive language against the community which was "unwarranted", said the two-page memorandum submitted by the "Thevar Samudayam."



Accusing the police of remaining a mute spectator during such public meetings, it urged them to ensure that such denigrating remarks were not made against the caste.

It also warned of state-wide agitations, if political leaders attempted to give caste colour to such issues.

Shankar was hacked to death on March 13 by a four-member gang at a bus stand in Udumalpet while his wife Kausalya, a Caste Hindu girl, escaped with injuries.

The attack, allegedly carried out at the behest of her father, was suspected to be a honour killing and has drawn widespread condemnation.
A debt-ridden farmer allegedly committed suicide by consuming poison at his residence in Khirdi village of Maharashtra's Nashik district, police said today.

Dattu Choudhari (48) yesterday committed suicide as he was unable to pay loan of Rs one lakh. Drought for the third consecutive year also added to his plight, an official attached with Nandgaon Police Station said.

Following a complaint by his brother Rajaram, a case has been registered in this regard, the officer said.

Joint investigations are being carried out by police and officials of the Maharashtra revenue department, he added.
Delhi government today alloted Rs 10 crore in its budget for setting up 'Aam Aadmi canteens' across the city to provide subsidised food.

"It is proposed to start Aam Aadmi canteens in Delhi for providing nutritious and hygienic food at low prices to citizens, particularly the poor and the downtrodden who find it difficult to have a proper meal, like rickshaw pullers, daily wage labourers and construction workers," Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said while presenting the budget in the Assembly.

The announcement comes nearly a year after Delhi Dialogue Commission Vice-Chairperson Ashish Khetan's announcement to set up such facilities in line with Tamil Nadu's highly- subsidised Amma canteens.

The functioning of the canteens will be monitored and coordinated by a "Bureau of Affordable Meals", Sisodia said.
Delhi government has allocated Rs 6919 crore to the local bodies in its budget 2016-17, nearly Rs 1,000 crore more than the outlay last year.

The three BJP-ruled municipal corporations and the AAP-led Delhi government have been at loggerheads for the past several months over release of funds to the civic bodies.

"The proposed total expenditure of Rs 46,600 crore includes Rs 6,919 crore as against Rs 5,908 crore in Budget Estimate and Rs 5,999 crore in Revised Estimate 2015-16," Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Manish Sisodia said while presenting the budget.

The erstwhile unified Municipal Corporation of Delhi was trifurcated into North, South and East Corporations or NDMC, SDMC and EDMC in 2012 and barring SDMC, the rest two municipal bodies have been running with huge financial losses.

In view of poor financial position of municipal corporations of North and East Delhi, Sisodia had last year said, "We propose to give time to Corporations to set their houses in order by giving them moratorium on loan repayment. We will not follow the practice of previous regimes of recovering principal and interest of the outstanding loan liabilities in 2015-16 from the grants to the Corporations.
Delhi government today said it will create women safety groups for all constituencies and ensure adequate lighting at around 42,000 'dark spots' as it set aside Rs 1,068 crore in its 2016-17 budget to promote women's security and empowerment.

While Rs 200 crore was earmarked for the women safety groups another Rs 114 crore was set aside to ensure adequate lighting at around 42,000 dark spots in the national capital.

The government also announced an initial allocation of Rs 200 crore as part of a new scheme for installing CCTV cameras and surveillance systems throughout Delhi.

Presenting the Rs 46,600 crore budget for 2016-17 in Delhi Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said Rs 1,068 crore has been allocated for women's safety, security and empowerment.

"A 'Mohalla Rakshak Dal' of civil defence volunteers has been set up in the Karawal Nagar Assembly constituency as part of a pilot scheme. These efforts have received a warm welcome from the local residents and Delhi Police," he said.

The government, Sisodia said, proposes "to set up Mohalla Rakshak Dals in all Assembly constituencies and Rs 200 crore has been allotted for the same".

After around 42,000 dark spots were identified on 421 road stretches with the help of multiple agencies, including Delhi Police and women's safety NGOs, a provision of Rs 114 crore has been made for providing adequate lighting at these spots, he added.

On the Rs 200 crore allotment for the new CCTV scheme, the deputy chief minister said, "I admit that the amount allotted at this moment is insufficient... More allotment will be done with further research and analysis in the coming time."



Sisodia said that CCTV cameras have been installed on 200 DTC buses while a free Wi-Fi service was launched in December 2015 in some of them on a pilot basis. Wi-Fi services, GPS and CCTV cameras will soon be provided in all DTC and cluster buses, he added.

The government has made it mandatory for all public vehicles, including taxis, to install GPS and has also deputed 4,000 marshals for DTC buses, he said. In the last budget, the government had allotted Rs 160 crore for installing GPS and deploying marshals.

The government also proposed that a working women's hostel be set up in southwest Delhi's Dwarka area, which should start functioning in the next fiscal even as three other such facilities are being planned at Dilshad Garden, Pitampura and Vasant village.

"A hostel at Dwarka with a capacity to accommodate 50 working women will be made functional in 2016-17. Work on three working women's hostels to accommodate 200 more will be started at Dilshad Garden, Pitampura and Vasant Gaon," he said.

While presenting the last budget, the AAP government had highlighted the acute shortage of working women's hostels in the city and said it is planning to construct six such hostels with active participation from the private sector.

Under the women's security, safety and empowerment category, priority areas in last year's budget included betterment of Anganwadi centres and development of creche facilities, particularly in slums, JJ clusters and rehabilitation colonies, among others.
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia today said that the Delhi government has posted a growth of 17 per cent in its tax revenue collection in the current year as compared to 2.64 per cent during 2014-15.

The Arvind Kejriwal government has set a target of Rs 24,500 crore in VAT collection while it expects Rs 5,200 crore in state excise in the next financial year.

Last year, the government had set a target of Rs 24,000 crore through VAT collection, but later it had to bring it down to Rs 21,000 crore.

"In this financial year, we have seen a historic growth of 17 per cent in tax revenue, 31 per cent in state excise and 21 per cent in stamp duty," Sisodia, who also holds finance portfolio, said.

He said the current year's non-plan expenditure was budgeted and approved for Rs 22,129 crore.

"We will manage to restrict the total non-plan expenditure to the level of Rs 21,565 crore in the 2015-16 despite giving an unforseen loan of Rs 551 crore to the North and East municipal corporations, which was not a part of the original estimates of non-plan expenditure," he said.

"The plan outlay which was budgeted and approved for Rs 19,000 crore is porposed to pan out at Rs 16,400 crore level in the revised estimates 2015-16.

"Our total revised estimated expenditure for the current year is Rs 37,965 crore against the total budget estimate of Rs 41,129 crore," Sisodia said.
Delhiites will soon be able to buy ration from any fair price shop in a particular constituency as the city government today proposed a card portability scheme in its annual budget.

The scheme, which has been made operative at the Delhi Cantonment area on pilot basis, will "gradually be replicated" across the national capital, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said while preenting the budget.

He said that 5.57 lakh ration card holders have benefitted from the e-ration card facility through which people can apply and obtain ration cards in a transparent manner.

"The ration card portability has been made operative in Delhi Cantonment area on pilot basis which gives the option to the consumers to collect ration from any fair price shop (FPS) of his choice in the same constituency. This will gradually be replicated across Delhi," he said.

Sisodia said that a pilot project for installation of point of sale (POS) devices at 40 fair price shops has already been implemented where ration is issued after biometric authentication.

"This system will be replicated in 2,400 fair price shops in a six months' time to ensure delivery of food grains to the actual beneficiaries in a transparent manner," he said.
Delhi government today allocated Rs 1,735 crore for purchasing 3,000 new buses as part of its efforts to promote use of public transport among people.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia presenting the annual budget said the government will procure 1,000 new standard size UBS-II compliant low-floor non-AC buses during 2016-17. He said the government will also buy 1,000 new buses under the cluster scheme and introduce 1,000 buses in the premium category through a purely market-driven model to encourage the financially well-off to use public transport.

To accommodate these new buses, bus depots will be also developed at Rewla Khanpur, Dichaun Kalan, Karkari Nahar, Bawana Sector-1 and Dwarka Sector-22, Sisodia said, as he proposed a plan outlay of Rs 325 crore for purchase of buses and development of bus terminals.

DTC at present has a fleet of 4,461 buses which includes 3,781 low-floor buses and 680 standard-floor buses.

Sisodia also proposed renovation and modernisation of the ISBTs (Inter-state Bus Terminals) at Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar with world-class



passenger amenities and construction of a new one at Dwarka.

Also, about 1,397 new bus queue shelters are proposed to be constructed under PPP mode.

Seeking to promote e-rickshaws for last mile connectivity in Delhi, Sisodia also proposed enhancement of one-time fixed subsidy for them from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000.

"In the current year Rs 4.97 crore has been given as subsidy to 3,709 owners of battery-operated vehicles and e-rickshaw. I propose to enhance one-time fixed subsidy for erickshaw from existing subsidy amount of Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000 for every e-rickshaw that has been registered by the Transport Department.

Also, to promote the use of electric vehicles, the government will exempt road tax on registration of electric.

"One electric bus has been started on a pilot basis and if we get better results, then more such buses will be plied," he said.

Besides, he said that electronic ticketing machines will be introduced in all the buses, in addition to common mobility payment card for unhindered access to the commuters.

There will be a passenger information system at each bus stop which would display the real-time location of buses and expected arrival time.
Drug major Dr Reddy's Laboratories has entered into a US licensing pact with XenoPort for the development and commercialisation of latter's clinical-stage oral new chemical entity XP23829.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories will pay an upfront fee of $50 million (Rs 335 crore) to XenoPort and up to $440 million (Rs 2,935 crore) on achievement of certain milestones.

"Dr Reddy's Laboratories and XenoPort, Inc have entered into a license agreement pursuant to which the company will be granted exclusive US rights for the development and commercialisation of XenoPort's clinical-stage oral new chemical entity -- XP23829," the company said in a BSE filing today.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories said it is planning to develop XP23829 as a potential treatment for moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis and may potentially develop XP23829 for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Elaborating on the payment, it said, "Under the terms of the agreement, the company will receive exclusive US rights to develop and commercialise XP23829 for all indications. In exchange for these rights, XenoPort will receive a $47.5 million upfront payment and an additional $2.5 million for transfer of certain clinical trial materials to the company."



"XenoPort will also be eligible to receive up to $190 million upon the achievement by the company of certain regulatory milestones which could be achieved over a period of several years. In addition, XenoPort will be eligible to receive up to $250 million upon the achievement of commercial milestones and up to mid-teens royalty payments based on potential net sales of XP23829 in the US," the company added.

"XP23829 complements our internal development efforts, which have primarily focused on the mild-to-moderate psoriasis segment to date. In other markets, fumarates have been used as first-line choices of treatment prior to initiation of biologic therapies in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis."



"We intend to initiate the registration programme for XP23829 as soon as feasible so that we can accelerate the availability of this important treatment choice for moderate-to-severe psoriasis patients in the US market," Dr Reddy's Laboratories Executive Vice President, Proprietary Products Group, Raghav Chari, said.

The agreement is subject to review by the US government under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Antitrust Improvements Act, as amended, and will become effective only after clearing HSR review.

Dr Reddy's Laboratories' shares were trading at Rs 3,047 apiece, down 0.01% in the morning trade on the BSE.
In order to make top-tier business education accessible, Emeritus Institute of Management has collaborated with MIT Sloan, Columbia Business School and Tuck at Dartmouth.

Through this collaboration, Indian students can now access IVY League business education, a company release said.

"Using technology and curriculum innovation, Emeritus opens doors for tens of thousands of Indian students who want to pursue a high-quality business education while continuing to work," Ashwin Damera, Executive Director and Member of the Academic Board of Emeritus said.

An one-year programs cost Rs 2,60,000 and smaller duration, 6-8 week certificate programs cost Rs 45,000, it added.

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Saregama launches devotional music app



* RP Sanjiv Goenka Group owned music label Saregama has launched a new app 'Saregama Shakti' which will offer a large collection of devotional music on demand.

The app features bhajans by renowned artistes like Lata Mangeshkar, Anup Jalota, Jagjit Singh, Asha Bhosle, Suresh Wadkar, Anuradha Paudwal and Sadhna Sargam, among others, a company release said today.

It will also offer audio recitals of granths (religious books) like 'Tulsi Ramayana', 'Geeta Govinda', 'Sundar Kand', 'Satyanarayan Katha', 'Sai Satcharitra Granth' and 'Krishna Charit Manas'.

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Tech Mahindra to work as member in GE Digital Alliance Prog * Tech Mahindra, country's fifth biggest IT exporter, today said it will work as a member in the GE Digital Alliance Program and devote over 1,000 developers for it over next few months.

The Mahindra Group company said it has been an early adopted of the Predix platform, GE's cloud platform-as-a- service for the industrial Internet, and has over 100 experts trained in it.

As part of the alliance, it will work with GE to jointly create solutions for the power, oil and gas, and transportation sectors, a company statement said.

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Chillr ties up with Bharat Bank



* Mobile payment app Chillr today said customers of Bharat Bank, a lender from the co-operative space, will be able to instantly transfer money to anyone in their phonebooks.

The company has tie-up with the bank to make such services possible, it said in a statement.

The Chillr app is directly linked to the customer's bank account wherein the user can transfer money to any person in the country, once he/she downloads the app and registers.

A2Z Infra wins USD 3.83 million contract from Uganda govt



* Infrastructure firm A2Z Infra Engineering today said it has won a USD 3.83 million contract from the government of Uganda for transmission lines.

"A contract has been awarded from Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (The Republic of Uganda) ... For Design, Supply and Construction of MV lines and associated low voltage network in various project areas along Kawanda Masaka 220KV Transmission Line," the company said in a BSE filing.

The contract price aggregates to "USD 3,835,099.39," the company said.

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Angel Broking launches #Customer Service on Facebook, Twitter * Retail brokerage Angel Broking today announced the launch of an initiative that will allow its customers to get their key account-related information through Facebook and Twitter.

The new service -- #CustomerService -- would help customers take quicker investment decisions.

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Snapdeal partners with Godrej Security Solutions * Online marketplace Snapdeal has partnered with Godrej Security Solutions, whereby experts from Godrej Security Consulting Services will visit Snapdeal customers to assess and suggest measures on making their homes more secure.

The service will be available in Mumbai, Thane, Panvel, Navi Mumbai, New Delhi and Gurgaon.

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Paytm ties up with Suzuki Motorcycles



* Mobile commerce platform Paytm has entered a strategic partnership with Suzuki Motorcycle India to provide customers the largest assortment of bike and scooter models across all transactional platforms in India.

With over 400+ Suzuki dealers on-boarded, Paytm's marketplace will now enable booking of all Suzuki two-wheeler models on its platform pan-India.

CNBTEC develops solutions to manage container yard



* Bengaluru-based CNB Technologies today said it has developed a unique and cost effective solution, HAWK, to manage and plan a container yard in real time.

"CNB Technologies Pvt Ltd, a hardware-software product company focusing on shipping logistics industry, has developed a unique and cost effective solution, HAWK, to manage and plan a container yard in real time using their IoT (Internet of Things) platform," the company said in a statement.

It said the solution is used for managing the complete yard by recording all the activities happening inside a container yard in a fully automatic manner and added that there are no manual interventions in recording these data making it error free.

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Waterfield crosses USD 1 bn mark of assets under advisory * Waterfield Advisors, an advisory firm to family-owned businesses, today said it has crossed USD 1 billion of assets under advisory.

The Mumbai-based firm was set up in 2011 and has a strategic investment in the business by Patni scions Amit and Arihant Patni in 2014. The firm offers advisory to established wealthy business families as well as first generation entrepreneurs.

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Inkel Greens to create 5,000 jobs in 2 years * Keeping up pace with the government's policy on employment generation, Inkel Greens, Malappuram, is set to create about 5,000 jobs within the next two years.

As many as 26 companies and five educational institutions have lined up investments worth Rs 130 crore and Rs 70 crore respectively, and have started setting up their infrastructure at the park, which has been developed by the state government's PPP-initiative Inkel Limited, a release said.

Spread over 168 acres in Panakkad, Malappuram, Inkel Greens has a dedicated industrial zone called 'SME Park' and an educational zone called 'Edu City'.

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Sobha to launch luxury apartment project in Del-NCR * Realty firm Sobha will launch its first luxury apartment project, SobhaCity in Delhi-NCR on June 29.

It is one of the largest group housingprojects in Gurgaon, the company said in arelease today.

Located in sector 108 of Gurgaon and spread over 39 acres, Sobha City comprises 1700 apartments across22 towers with four units on each floor. The project offers 2 BHK and 3 BHK apartments that rangefrom 1,380 sq ft to 2,342 sq ft, it added.
Russia's former human rights ombudsman Ella Pamfilova was today appointed the country's top elections chief ahead of parliamentary polls this year.

Her candidacy was approved by the majority of members of the central election commission.

Russia will hold parliamentary elections this September amid a prolonged economic crisis due in part to the fall in oil prices and Western sanctions over the Kremlin's role in Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin earlier this month dropped the controversial chief of the election commission Vladimir Churov dubbed the "magician" by the marginalised opposition.

Churov - who had headed the election commission since 2007 - has been accused by critics of presiding over mass election fraud to ensure victories for the Kremlin.

Pamfilova, 62, said the commission's task was to ensure that all Russians have "equal voting rights."



"So that there is trust in elections, so that people want to take part in polls so that they feel that the situation in the country really depends on their votes," she said.

Experts say Pamfilova's appointment is apparently aimed at lending more legitimacy to the upcoming polls but will change little given the Kremlin's tight grip on the political system including parliament, court and media.

Putin has earlier warned that "foreign enemies" were seeking to disrupt the elections and tasked the FSB security service with preventing any such interference.
National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah and working president Omar Abdullah today condemned the Lahore terror attack, terming it as "dastardly and heart rending".

"This is another senseless act of barbarism that underlines the need to unite against the common enemies of peace and humanity," Abdullah said in a statement here.

"My heart goes out to the affected people and I pray the situation improves and incidents like these are never repeated," he said.

Expressing profound grief and sorrow over the loss of lives, the former Union minister prayed for peace to the departed souls and expressed solidarity with their families.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the loss of innocent lives in Lahore is a reminder of the challenges faced by innocent people across the world in fighting against barbarism and violence.

"I pray for those who have been affected and express my heartfelt solidarity with them," Omar said.

The two leaders also prayed for the complete and fast recovery of the injured.

(Reopens NRG35)



PDP president and Member of Parliament Mehbooba Mufti also condemned the Lahore terror attack and highlighted the need to unite against enemies of peace and humanity.

"This despicable act is utterly contemptible and highly condemnable," Mehbooba said while expressing deep grief and sorrow over the tragic loss of innocent lives at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Lahore.

She expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and prayed for early recovery of those injured in the gruesome attack.

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said, adding such senseless acts of violence underline the need for uniting against the enemies of peace and humanity.

She said the perpetrators of the attack cannot be termed as humans and they can never be part of civilised world.
Maharashtra Environment Minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam today alleged that the recent incidents of fire at the Deonar dumping ground were the "handiwork" of BJP and that the ruling party was trying to gain political mileage out of the issue.

Kadam, along with other Shiv Sena MPs and ministers, and city mayor Snehal Ambekar, today visited the dumping ground.

"BJP trying to take political mileage out of this fire issue (incidents of fire since January this year) which is the handiwork of its own people and they are doing this in the run up to the BMC polls," Kadam alleged.

"...But the truth is that BJP and its leadership are responsible for this menace. This is their attempt to malign Shiv Sena," he told reporters.

"Inquiry should be run into these incidents. I ask who appoints Commissioner of BMC, Shiv Sena leader or the Chief Minister?" he asked.

Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant said it was unfortunate that BJP was "playing politics" over the issue rather than solving it.

He also attacked Congress over its Mumbai chief Sanjay Nirupam's remarks that the BJP-Shiv Sena combine has ruined the city.

"Congress leaders need to know at least one very common thing that if we were not doing the right job, then why we were elected so many times by the people of Mumbai?" he asked.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta, who was also present on the spot, briefed the minister and others on measures being undertaken by the civic administration on the cooling operation front.

Massive fire at the dumping ground in January this year had created a thick blanket of smog over neighbouring areas causing serious health issues to residents, while a fresh fire broke out there last week.
The goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to limit global warming to less than two degrees Celsius set in December last year in Paris are almost impossible to achieve, according to a new study.

In December last year, officials representing more than 190 countries met in Paris to participate in the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

The historic outcome from that conference was the "Paris Agreement" in which each country agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to limit global warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius above temperatures seen near the start of the Industrial Revolution in the 1850s.

Such a level was considered acceptable, or "safe," by all participating countries, but the goal is unrealistic and almost impossible to achieve, according to a new study by researchers at the Texas A&M University at Galveston.

Researchers modelled the projected growth in global population and per capita energy consumption, as well as the size of known reserves of oil, coal and natural gas, and greenhouse gas emissions to determine how difficult it will be to achieve the less-than-2 degree Celsius warming goal.

"It would require rates of change in our energy infrastructure and energy mix that have never happened in world history and that are extremely unlikely to be achieved," said Glenn Jones, professor of marine sciences.

The Paris Agreement's overall goal is to replace fossil fuels, which emit huge amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere which in turn leads to higher temperatures, with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power and biofuels.

"Just considering wind power, we found that it would take an annual installation of 485,000 5-megawatt wind turbines by 2028.

"The equivalent of about 13,000 were installed in 2015. That's a 37-fold increase in the annual installation rate in only 13 years to achieve just the wind power goal," said Jones.

Similar expansion rates are needed for other renewable energy sources.

"There will be about 11 billion people on Earth by 2100 (compared to 7.2 billion today)," Jones said.

"Currently 1.2 billion people in the world do not have access to electricity, and there are plans to try to get them on the grid," he said.

"To even come close to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, 50 per cent of our energy will need to come from renewable sources by 2028, and today it is only 9 per cent, including hydropower. For a world that wants to fight climate change, the numbers just don't add up to do it," Jones said.

"If we don't worry about global warming and the 2-degree Celsius goal, we can continue to burn known fossil fuel reserves, but even here we will have to achieve more than 50 per cent renewable energy by 2054, but warming will exceed 2.5 to 3 degrees Celsius," he said.

The research was published in the journal Energy Policy.
Foreign investors continue to remain positive on the Indian government debt, with the auction today attracting bids worth Rs 6,810 crore, higher than securities put on offer.

The auction, which was held on BSE's ebidxchange platform for allocation of Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) investment limits in government debt securities worth Rs 5,035 crore, received bids for Rs 6,810 crore, as per information available with the exchange.

The auction was conducted from 3.30 PM to 5.30 PM - after the close of market hours'



The debt auction quota gives overseas investors the right to invest in bonds, up to the limit purchased.

Depository data showed that total investments including limits acquired by foreign investors through auction route stood at Rs 1,30,719 crore till March 3, which was 96.54 per cent of the total permitted investment limit of Rs 1,35,400 crore in the government debt securities.

In earlier auctions, government bonds have been subscribed multiple times, given the huge interest among the foreign investors.

An auction of government debt securities on March 8 had attracted bids worth Rs 6,463 crore from foreign investors as against Rs 4,681 crore put on offer.

To boost the inflow of foreign funds into Indian capital markets, the limit for overseas investors in securities was hiked to Rs 1,29,900 crore from October 12, and it was further increased to Rs 1,35,400 crore from January 1, 2016.

Prior to the October limit, they were allowed to invest up to Rs 1,24,432 crore in government debt securities through auction.
In yet another labour friendly reform, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said scores obtained by candidates in recruitment examinations conducted by government and PSUs will be shared with private sector to help them hire candidates with matching talent.

"The government and public sector undertakings conduct a number of recruitment examinations. So far, the scores in these examinations have been retained by the government.

"Hereafter, we will make available the results and the candidate information openly to all employers, wherever consent is given by the candidate. This will create a positive externality," Modi said at the Bloomberg India Economic Forum.

He said, recently to eliminate corruption in government recruitments, interviews for lower and middle level positions were abolished.

Results of government entrance examinations for engineering and medical colleges are already being used by private colleges for admissions.

Modi said making available the scores of recruitment exams conducted by the government and PSUs to all employers will provide a rich data base which can be used by private sector employers as a readymade and objective sourcing and screening mechanism.

"It will reduce search costs in the labour market for both employers and employees. It will enable better matching of candidates from labour surplus areas with jobs in other regions," he said.

Modi further said in the Budget, government had announced two path-breaking reforms in the education sector.

"Our aim is to empower higher educational institutions to help them attain the highest standards," he said.

The government will provide an enabling regulatory architecture to 10 public and 10 private institutions, so that they emerge as world-class teaching and research institutions.

Their regulatory framework will be separate from existing structures like the University Grants Commission and All India Council for Technical Education.

"They will have complete autonomy on academic, administrative and financial matters. We will provide additional resources for the next five years for the 10 public universities.

"This will eventually allow ordinary Indians affordable access to world-class degree courses. This initiative is the beginning of a journey to restore the original mandate of higher education regulators," he said.
The Gujarat High Court today ordered the police to file an FIR and submit a probe report in 15 days in response to a habeas corpus petition filed by the parents of a student who reportedly drowned in Narmada canal while on a college assignment.

Avi Raj (24), a student of Rai University, slipped and fell into the Narmada canal near the college in Dholka in Ahmedabad district while on an assignment to collect water samples on February 16. The other students who were with him reported the incident but his body has not been found.

His parents allege in the petition that police refused to register an FIR because the body has not been found.

The division bench of Justices K S Jhaveri and G S Shah ordered the police to register an FIR, conduct a probe and file a report within 15 days.

The petition also alleges that the college authorities kept them in the dark about the incident. While Avi stayed as in Ahmedabad as a paying guest, his parents live in another town.
Peeved by disruptions caused by Congress MLAs in the Legislative Assembly today, Gujarat Finance Minister Saurabh Patel suggested bringing in "provision" in next session to tie them in their seats to ensure they remain seated quietly and do not "jump".

Patel flew off the handle when the Congress legislators interrupted him several times during his speech.

Though his unusual suggestion evoked peals of laughter in treasury benches, the Congress took it seriously and complained to Deputy Speaker about his remarks.

It all started when Patel, while delivering his speech on budgetary allocations of Energy department, started slamming Congress legislators, particularly senior MLA Shaktisinh Gohil, on various issues.

Ahead of Patel's address, Gohil sarcastically referred to the former's speech in 2014, saying the minister had opposed the GST Bill and 'thanked' him for going against the legislation which the Modi government wanted to be passed.

"In an empowered committee meeting held in December 2014, when BJP-led NDA had came to power in Centre, Patel said in his speech that GST Bill of the Modi Government is anti-Make in India," Gohil said.

He claimed Patel had said that the GST Bill was a deterrent to manufacturing states like Gujarat.

In his response, Patel said Gohil has misinterpreted his speech.

Patel clarified what he meant was he is in favour of the bill but had only given some suggestions keeping in mind the interest of Gujarat.

The minister also hit back Gohil who has been alleging that Energy department was insensitive to the power woes of farmers. Gohil had earlier alleged that excessive VAT was being collected on fuels in Gujarat compared to other states.

During his speech, Patel was interrupted several times by the opposition MLAs who jumped off their seats and interrupted Patel.

"When you (Gohil) spoke, I did not interrupt you even once. Now, when it's my turn, you are not allowing me. Why you all cannot not sit quietly? What's troubling you? Why are you jumping off your seats frequently?" Patel asked the opposition MLAs.

When Deputy Speaker Atmaram Parmar tried to calm frayed tempers, Patel said, "In the next session, I will bring a provision to tie you up with seat belts so you are fixed to your respective seats. I think that will make you sit through my speech and stop you from standing up frequently. This is the best solution for you."



Patel's remark created chaos in the House.

Gohil took a strong objection to the remarks and complained to Deputy Speaker, saying that being a senior minister Patel should not use such language in the House.
Haryana government today launched ' Project Salamati', aimed to maintain healthy gap between the births of children by using injectable contraceptive.

The project was launched here by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who said that by introducing another option among the family planning measures in the form of injectable contraceptive at government health institutions, Haryana has achieved a "major milestone" at the national level.

This facility would be available at all Primary Health Centres, Community Health Centres, Sub Divisional and district hospitals free of cost, he added.

Khattar said the project, being implemented by Haryana Health Department with the assistance of Pathfinder International, is initially being implemented in nine health blocks of four districts of the state.

These included four health blocks in district Palwal, three in district Mewat, Kurali block in district Faridabad and Khor block in district Rewari.

These districts have been chosen as a pilot project, as maternal and infant Mortality rate in these districts are more as compared to other districts. After the success of this project in these districts, it would be implemented throughout the state.

An outlay of Rs 3,916.94 crore has been earmarked for Health and Family Welfare in the year 2016-17 as compared to Rs 2,857.28 crore in the year 2015-16, thus showing an increase of 37.1 per cent, Khattar said.

He said it was the highest priority to bring down the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR).

Khattar said thatas a result of steps taken by the present state government for population control, the total fertility rate has come down to 2.1 per cent, besides registering a significant decrease in MMR and IMR.

Referring to the 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' programme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the national level from Panipat, the CM said that the programme is "bearing fruitful results as the sex ratio in the state has improved significantly."



He said that under this programme, the state government has ensured strict implementation of Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act and added that a large number of ultra sound machines have been seized for violating the provision of the law.

As a result of these, the sex ratio at birth has increased to more than 903 per 1000 boys, he said.

Health Minister Anil Vij requested the Central Government to get this injectable contraceptive included in the list of essential medicines so that it would be easily available to the people free of cost.
The Madras High Court today dismissed a PIL filed by a man seeking a direction to the Centre to forward his letter to the UN suggesting, among others, abolition of armed forces in all countries.

The HC imposed a cost of Rs 10,000 on the petitioner and directed that the money be paid to Tamil Nadu legal aid cell within a month.

A division bench of the Court's Madurai bench, comprising Justices S Manikumar and Justice CT Selvam, dismissed the petition filed by K S alias S Ganesan seeking a directionto the External Affairs Ministry to forward his letter suggesting abolition of armed forces in all countries and convert United Nations into United National government.

The petitioner argued that the armed conflict between countries was due to the presence of armed forces in every country. To promote peace between states, establishement of World Armed forces, was necessary, he submitted.

"Defence forces of all nations should be dissolved and a united world army should be formed," the petition said.

The petitioner submitted that he had already written to the Secretary, External Affairs Ministry, making the above suggestion and requesting them to forward the letter to the General secretary of the UN and also heads of governments and states of SAARC countries but to no avail.
Representatives of pan-India teachers Associations today demanded removal of Hyderabad Central University's Vice-Chancellor Appa Rao and a judicial inquiry into the recent police "crackdown" on students and teachers on the varsity campus.

The Federation of Central Universities Teachers' Association (FEDCUTA) termed the police crackdown as "premeditated" to inflict violence.

The recent bone of contention was the Vice-Chancellor, who was on leave following the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula, joining the office last week. This was met with strong resistance from the students.

A group of students, who were opposing Prof Appa Rao Podile's return as the VC after a two-month leave following the row over Vemula's suicide in a university hostel room, had allegedly vandalised his residence and pelted stones on police on March 22.

Later, police resorted to lathicharge and arrested 25 of them, beside two faculty members. All of them were lodged in Cherlapally central prison here.

Putting out a list of demands, Nandita Narain, the President of FEDCUTA, said the charges against the students and the faculty should be dropped and efforts made to restore normalcy on the university campus.

"We demand that Prof Appa Rao be immediately removed from the post and a judicial inquiry be instituted into the barbaric crackdown on students and teachers of the HCU.

"There should be strict action against those accused of abetting the suicide of Rohith Vemula. Also, a Rohith Act should be legislated to prevent caste discrimination in educational institutions," Narain added.

All the 27 people--25 students and two faculty members of the HCU-- arrested in connection with the recent violence on the campus were today granted bail even as classes resumed after being suspended since March 23.

(REOPENS DES 41)



"The authorities allowing RAF and CRPF forces to crackdown on the students, strike fear in the minds of the students. The administrative decision to shut water supply, messes electricity and internet in the campus, and resulting prison like situation leading to near-starvation conditions of thousands of students can only be classified as war crimes.

"The VC's Machiavellian ploy is to fan further unrest among students who have been demanding Rao's removal and justice for Rohith Vemula. This is a larger part of a conspiracy to lay siege on the University and crush the democratic movement of its students and teachers," Narain said.

The FEDCUTA also demanded a "dialogue" between the administration and students.

She also accused the Centre of acting under the pressure of World Trade Organisation (WTO) and attempting to privatise education.

Ajay Patnaik, Secretary of the FEDCUTA claimed that the probe ordered by the Ministry of Human Resources Development had found Appa Rao "guilty".

"The Vice Chancellors are supposed to protect the autonomy, strengthen the institution and not succumb to political pressure. He has failed in doing so and has no right to be in the post," Patnaik said.

Targeting the government, Patnaik said the students and teachers are being repressed.

"Universities cannot be mere spectators to this," he said.
Hindus in the US are up in arms against suggestions mooted by California's Department of Education to make changes in textbooks which they allege not only distort India's history but ignore facts on Hinduism.

Following protests from Hindus across the nation, the California Education Department has decided not to go ahead with some of the suggested changes like replacing 'India' with 'South Asia' in state text books.

Bill Honig, Chair of the Subject Matter Committee of the Commission, said at a public hearing that they reject the suggestion for removal of India but agreed to add "South Asia" in parenthesis after most mentions to ancient India.

New recommendations will be forwarded to the State Board of Education for their consideration and the final draft of the framework is to be accepted later this year.

But Hindu-Americans continue to oppose some of the proposed edits like removing mention of Hinduism's acceptance of religious diversity, re-linking Hinduism with caste, and removing mention of the contributions of Hindu sages of different backgrounds such as Valmiki and Vyasa.

"We question the move to insert a large number of adverse edits on India and Hinduism at the last minute at the instance of a few Leftist scholars," said the Hindu Education Foundation (HEF), which has been working with commission for the past many years.

"While some important inaccuracies have been rolled back, a large number of adverse edits these academics submitted have still found their way into the recommendations and need to be scrutinised," it said.

It also protested the removal of the mention of non- Brahmin sages like Valmiki and Vyasa from the textbooks at the suggestion of these academics.

"It is strange that while claiming to represent the underprivileged, the Leftist professors of South Asian faculty group have sought the removal of the mention that these sages came from lower castes which had specifically been added at the suggestion of Hindu groups to give fair representation to all communities," the statement said.

A large number of students and parents testified at the public hearing of the commission held in Sacramento on March 24 seeking the rejection of these changes.

"India is not just a landmass but a living civilization. By removing the mention of India as a civilization, my identity as an Indian-American is sought to be erased," Vidhima Shetty, a student studying in 9th grade in San Ramon, said during her testimony at the Department of Education.

Narrating different incidents of stereotypes they encounter, the students demanded that Hinduism and India be portrayed in proper light.

The students also demanded that the suggestions that Vedas belong to "ancient Indian religions" and not to Hinduism amounted to stripping them of their Hindu identity.

The community's efforts were also supported by a coalition of 20 government leaders and elected officials, including Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and California State Senator Steven M Glazer.
BJP MLAs in Himachal Pradesh Assembly today staged a walkout after after the Speaker rejected their notice for adjournment motion to discuss the attachment of assets of Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh by Enforcement Directorate (ED).

As soon as the House re-assembled after the nine-day recess, BJP MLA Rajeev Bindal sought to know the fate ofhis adjournment motion notice in the assembly, saying the matter was important and warranted discussion.

Before he could speak on the subject, Speaker Brij Bihari Lal Butail said he had received the notice by BJP members, Bindal and Mahender Thakur for adjournment motion to discuss the issue of ED proceedings against the CM but has rejected the motion and no discussion can be allowed.

Citing that the matter was in public domain and can be debated, Bindal requested the Speaker to allow the discussion, to which Butail cited rule 70and maintained that adjournment motion on matters pending before any statutory body, commission of inquiry or court shall ordinarily not be permitted to be discussed in the House.

However, Leader of Opposition Prem Kumar Dhumal said the situation was extraordinary as the ED had attached the property of a sitting chief minister and the Speaker can allow discussion on it.

Dhumal said chief minister Virbhadra Singh had been speaking on the issue from public platforms and alleging that BJP had a hand in ED action against him.

The Speaker was, however, unrelenting and said the Opposition should not draw any inference from action of the ED, which is a statutory body, and the matter would finally be decided by the court.

Agitated BJP member Suresh Bharadwaj said the ED was an investigating agency and not a judicial body and any matter which is being probed by the Police, CBI or any other investigating agency can be discussed in the Assembly.

As theSpeaker proceeded with the Question Hour, the BJP members started raising slogans and, after the Chair finally ruled out allowing the adjournment motion, they stage a walkout.

The BJP members returned to the House after the Question Hour and participated in discussions on demands for grants.
Even as unions of state-run Monday claimed a successful one-day strike, management said the bank "functioned normally".

The strike was called by two unions - United Forum of Officers and Employees (UFIOE) and United Platform of Unions (UPIBU)- to protest against the government plans to turnaround the heavily loss-making bank by handing over the management to private sector.

The bank claimed that none of their services were disrupted following the nationwide strike except in Karnataka, where the High Court has asked unions not to go on strike.

"All banking services like front-office services, back-office operations including cheque clearing, remittances, RTGS/NEFT, transaction banking services, treasury operations have been functioning normally," IDBI Bank said in a statement.

But the unions gave a different picture.

"The strike was a grand success. All the offices and branches of the bank remained closed today," UFIOE, which called for a one-day strike, said in a statement.

Employees and officers affiliated to UPIBU have called for a four-day strike.

"Today, almost 85% of the officers and 100% of employees were on strike. Our strike will continue for three more days," an office bearer of UPIBU said.
Eleven members of a family today made an abortive bid to immolate themselves at the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP)'s office in Gaya town in protest against police inaction in a case of abduction and subsequent murder of one Virendra Yadav alias Commando Yadav, a police officer said.

However, the cops present there swung into action and foiled their bid by seizing inflammable materials from their possession, Town Deputy Superintendent of Police Alok Kumar said.

All the 11 persons have been detained for questioning, he said.

Alleging tardy investigation in the abduction and murder of Yadav last year, his widow Dharmsheela Devi, three sons, parents and five other kins gathered in front the SSP's office and threatened to immolate themselves.

The family, natives of Baijubigaha village under Bodh Gaya police station area, had written letters to the Gaya SSP and the DGP earlier threatening to immolate themselves if the culprits in the abduction and murder case were not arrested by March 27 last, Kumar said.

Yadav was kidnapped from his village late last year by unidentified persons and his body was recovered from neighbouring Aurangabad district subsequently.

Yadav's kins had lodged an FIR at Bodh Gaya police station charging scores of people with his abduction and murder, but none of the accused has been arrested so far, they said.
India took a "180-degree turn" in its approach towards Myanmar from being pro-democracy and anti-junta when Jaswant Singh was External Affairs Minister as it could not afford to surrender its influence on the country to China and Pakistan, former Union Minister Shashi Tharoor today said.

He said that successive governments too followed the same policy as it did not want to miss out on the economic benefits after the discovery of natural gas in that country.

"India took a 180-degree turn. President (Pervez) Musharraf going to Yangon...And literally a week after, our Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh (was) following suit and changing the policy approach. And all governments, thereafter, decided that they cannot afford to be estranged with the next door neighbour.

"India felt it cannot afford to allow its neighbour to foment trouble on its borders in the Northeast. It could not afford to surrender its influence to China and Pakistan... It could not afford to surrender the economic benefits of natural gas and the democracy was not going to come by opposing military junta," Tharoor said.

The former Minister of State for External Affairs was speaking at the launch of a book 'Democratisation of Myanmar'.

Noting that India could not remain estranged with its neighbour when the Myanmarese government supported rebel groups, bandits and drug smugglers, Tharoor said when the 1990 elections were set aside in the country, India was the staunchest supporters of Myanmarese democracy.

"India was not only rhetorically on the side of democracy and freedom in Burma, something which many other countries were at a safer distance, it gave asylum to fleeing students, allowed them to offer their resistance movement within India, offered financial help, which was off the book and supported a pro-democracy newspaper and a radio station.

"In the first half of 1990s, India was the most tangible supporter of democracy movement in Myanmar," Tharoor said.

Quoting from a piece he wrote in 1990s after the shift in India's policy, Tharoor, whose initial posting during his stint in the UN was in Southeast Asia, said "India's policy be governed by the head rather than the heart but in the process we are losing a little bit of our soul."



"He was too harsh at that time," he added.
India and Turkey, an important interlocutor for the country in the region, are closely "coordinating" at the level of operational agencies to combat the threat posed by ISIS, against the backdrop of many Indians being held hostage by Islamic militants.

Interacting with the media on the sidelines of an event here, Ambassador of Turkey to India Burak Akcapar said that people from a "wide array" of countries have joined ISIS, and asserted that the fight against the terror group is going to continue unabated.

The envoy also said Turkey was looking forward to a "bilateral visit" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The PM was in Turkey for the G20 summit but that was not a bilateral visit. We are looking forward to a bilateral visit," he said.

"We are bordering Syria and Iraq which is the base of ISIS and there is no governance beyond these borders. We have been suffering because of that. But we are on the forefront in the fight against and against ISIS.

"Our measures are there, our coordination is there. Whatever cooperation occurs, they occur at the operational agency level. It's a fact that people have joined ISIS from quite a wide array of countries. The fight against terror organisations is not something that will end this year or next year; it will continue," he said.

Asked about the impact of terror strikes on Turkish tourism industry, Akcapar said the situation in neighbouring Syria has "affected" it, but the country shall continue to remain one of the biggest tourist attractions in the world.

"It is not just Turkey. We have a problem in the world. Turkey is quite experienced in dealing with this. We have this unfortunate situation in Syria and that has affected us but the tourism industry is working very hard to assure people that all is well," Akcapar said.
Indian-American has been appointed the President and Chief Executive Officer of Bank of the West, a unit of French banking giant BNP Paribas.

Bakshi, 57, will replace Michael Shepherd as Bank of the West's next President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is expected to join the bank as a CEO-in-training on April 1 and will take the helm officially on June 1.

She earned a bachelor's degree in History at the University of Calcutta and a masters in Relations and Affairs at Jadavpur University.

A New England News 'Woman of the Year' award recipient in 2002, Bakhshi also serves on the board of the Consumer Bankers Association.

"I am excited to join Bank of the West, one of America's most reputable banks. Bank of the West is well positioned in the US market, and I am thrilled at the prospect of leading an organisation with such a strong focus on customer service," Bakhshi said in a statement.

"We are pleased to welcome Nandita Bakhshi to Bank of the West. Her extensive experience in product and distribution, coupled with her visionary thinking, relentless customer focus and values-driven philosophy will serve us well in taking Bank of the West to greater heights," head of retail banking for BNP Paribas Stefaan Decraene said.

Bank of the West's parent company BNP Paribas is revamping its US operations to meet new regulations.

"I am very pleased that Nandita Bakhshi is joining Bank of the West. Her energy, innovative ideas and proven record of accomplishments are a great combination with our strong franchise and corporate culture," Shepherd said.

Bakhshi previously held several leadership roles at TD Bank, the most recent being executive vice president and head of North American direct channels where she was responsible for driving innovation in direct and electronic channels to improve digital adoption and provide customers a unified banking experience.

She also held executive positions at Washington Mutual in Seattle which is now JP Morgan Chase; FleetBoston, which is now Bank of America; First Data Corp, Home Savings of America and Banc One Corp.
An Indian man was jailed for 14 years today for trying to bring crystal methamphetamine into the Indonesian resort island of Bali.

Sayed Mohammed Said was arrested with 1.5 kilograms (53 ounces) of the narcotics hidden inside his backpack when he arrived at Bali airport from Bangkok in September.

The 30-year-old claimed the package belonged to a friend and he did not know it contained drugs.

But he was found guilty Monday at a court in the Balinese capital Denpasar, and a judge handed down the 14-year sentence.

The prison term was lower than the 20 years recommended by prosecutors and he escaped a possible death penalty.

Indonesia has some of the world's toughest anti-narcotics laws. People caught smuggling more than five grams of some controlled substances can be sentenced to death.

Said's lawyer Daniar Trisasongko said his client was still considering whether to appeal.

"The verdict is too stern considering my client was unaware he was carrying drugs. We will study it further before deciding the next step," Trisasongko told AFP.

Foreigners are frequently arrested for attempting to smuggle narcotics into Bali, a popular holiday destination famed for its palm-fringed beaches.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo launched a tough campaign against narcotics use in 2014, which culminated in the execution by firing squad last year of seven foreign drug convicts including two Australians.

But the move drew worldwide condemnation, and the government has since shown little sign of preparing for more executions, saying it is focused on fixing the economy.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "surrendering" to Pakistan by allowing its investigators to probe the Pathankot attack and said instead Indian probe agencies should have gone to that country where "actual masterminds are sitting".

India is saying that Pathankot terror attack was Pakistan-sponsored and in this situation, how can ISI probe against itself?, he asked.

"We are saying that Pathankot terror attack was Pakistan-sponsored. If it was Pakistan-sponsored attack, how can ISI probe against itself?. India is the major victim of the terror attacks and masterminds, who are actual players, are sitting in Pakistan.

"Instead of ISI and Pakistan Army coming, Indian's probe agency R&AW, Army should have gone to Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed is not in India, but in Pakistan," Kejriwal said.

He further said Indian's probe agency should have gone to Pakistan to interrogate Hafiz Saeed, but we are allowing Pakistan's agency to probe the January terror attack on the IAF base in Pathankot.

"We are even saying that 26/11 Mumbai terror attack had been carried out by terrorists who came from Pakistan. The ISI, which had sent terrorists to India for carrying out terror attacks here, has come to India today to gather evidences against itself in Pathankot terror attack. What is Indian government doing ?," he said.

"The Modi government has completely surrendered to Pakistan



and we don't know what is the reason behind it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi should give answer to the people of country as to why he has surrendered before the Pakistan," the Delhi Chief Minister said.

In the Delhi Assembly, the AAP MLAs led by Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra disrupted the House which led to an adjournment for 30 minutes.

Mishra said said that we will not tolerate the Centre's move to allow Pakistan's ISI to come to India to probe the Pathankot terror attack.
Two foreign nationals, including an Indian woman, have been arrested from a tourist hub in the Nepalese capital for allegedly smuggling drugs worth Rs 54 million in their shampoo bottles.

The two women - who have been identified as Mersi, 41, from Nagaland and Mapathone Masne, 37, of South Africa - were arrested from Thamel by the anti-drug trafficking unit of the Nepal Police, who seized 2.7 kg of cocaine from their possession.

The duo had hidden the drugs in four shampoo bottles, according to Nepal Police.

They have been involved in the trafficking network extending from New Delhi, Kathmandu and Europe as well as South Africa for a long time, authorities said.

The women were bringing drugs from New Delhi for dispatching to various destinations in Europe including Netherlands via Kathmandu, according to police.

The have been taken into custody.
Iran hailed the Syrian army's recapture of the ancient city of Palmyra and vowed to continue to support the government of President Bashar al-Assad to fight "terrorism", media reported today.

Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, sent a message to Assad to congratulate him on yesterday's "admirable and honourable" win over the Islamic State group.

Iran's government and its armed forces "will continue to provide Syria with their full support" against the jihadists, Shamkhani said, according to the official agency IRNA.

Iran provides financial and military support to Assad through its elite Revolutionary Guards, notably sending "military advisers" and "volunteers" to fight alongside the Syrian army.

Guards chief Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari said "the situation in Syria is very good" after the recapture of Palmyra, Fars agency reported.

Foreign ministry spokesman Hossein Jaber Ansari also lauded Syria's victory and said that Tehran will continue to back the Assad regime and other governments battling extremism.

"Iran's support continues for the fight against terrorism in Syria, Iraq and countries exposed to this threat," Ansari told Iran's Arabic-language Al-Alam television.

"Syria will march forward strongly in the fight against terrorism and the terrorists definitely won't have a place in the future of the region," he added.

Syrian troops ousted the jihadists from the ancient city today almost a year after they had seized it.
Israel today advised its citizens to leave Turkey citing the potential for jihadist attacks after three Israelis were among four people killed in a March 19 suicide bombing in Istanbul.

"It has been decided to upgrade the existing travel warning vis-a-vis Turkey from a basic concrete threat to a high concrete threat, and to reiterate our recommendation to the public to avoid visiting the country and -- for Israelis currently in Turkey -- to leave as soon as possible," a government statement said.

The statement said the bombing highlighted the threat from Islamic State group militants "against tourist targets throughout Turkey and proves high capabilities of carrying out further attacks".

"Terrorist infrastructures in Turkey continue to advance additional attacks against tourist targets -- including Israeli tourists -- throughout the country," it said.

Tens of thousands of Israelis visit nearby Turkey each year despite strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Three Israelis and an Iranian were killed and 39 people wounded when a man blew himself up on Istiklal Caddesi, a famous shopping street in the heart of Turkey's biggest city, on March 19.

The Turkish government said the bomber had links to IS.

IS has been blamed for four bombings that have rocked Turkey in the past eight months, including a massacre at a peace rally in the capital Ankara in October that claimed 103 lives.
The External Affairs Ministry has been asked to extend all possible help to former Navy official Kulbhushan Jadhav, arrested by Pakistan claiming he was a RAW operative, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today said.

"We do agree, to the extent I know, that he is an Indian citizen and we have asked for consular access," Parrikar said, adding that he is concerned about Jadhav since he is a veteran.

Giving details, the Minister said he had "indicated" to the MEA that Jadhav is an ex-officer and should be given all assistance and support required.

Praising External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Parrikar said the MEA was doing its best.

He said that Swaraj is very active and one can even reach her at night on Twitter and get a reply with action taken reports usually given by (next) morning.

"Sushmaji has been working vigorously to help Indians abroad who are in problem. In this case, since the other country has made allegations, it may take a longer time," he said.

Parrikar refused to comment anything more on Jadhav saying "other than paying him One Rank One Pension I cannot talk about anything on an ex officer".

Jadhav, a 1991 commissioned Naval officer, was arrested earlier this month by Pakistan authorities on the charges that he was dealing with Balochistan freedom fighters.

The allegation was that the officer, who retired in 2013, was an active RAW agent, a charge denied by India.

Government sources have said that Jadhav was a small businessman.

It is said that he often carried cargo to and from Iranian ports bordering Pakistan and has nothing to do with India's external intelligence agency.

Sources have said that there is no proof that the retired navy officer, who owns a cargo business in Iran, was arrested in Balochistan as claimed by Pakistan.

Jadhav could have been arrested after he strayed into Pakistani waters and was being wrongly charged, they said.

It is a matter of investigation whether he had accidentally strayed into Pakistani waters or was lured into Pakistan, sources have said.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe today welcomed Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe - the 92-year-old former guerrilla fighter who is widely shunned in the West but frequently courted in Asia.

Mugabe, whose country is subject to sanctions by the United States and European countries over its tainted human rights record, was visiting Japan for the fourth time as president and holding his third meeting with Abe.

The Japanese Prime Minister said he wants to work with Mugabe, who chaired the African Union last year, to help with Japan's push to reform the UN Security Council.

"By closely coordinating with Mr Mugabe... We wish to help promote reform" of the global body, Abe told reporters, in remarks carried by Jiji Press, referring to Mugabe as an esteemed African elder.

After their talks, Japan announced development aid worth 600 million yen (USD 5.3 million) for the nation to buy equipment needed to build roads.

The welcome for Africa's longest-serving ruler comes as Japan tries to compete with China for influence in the continent's fast-growing economies and as Tokyo prepares to sponsor a major conference on African development this August.

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Mugabe in 2014, calling him a renowned African liberation leader and an "old friend" of the Chinese people - one of the country's highest compliments for visiting foreign leaders.

Abe met Mugabe at the last round of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, or TICAD, held in 2013 in Yokohama. This year's TICAD, slated for Kenya, will be the first to be held in Africa.

They also met last year during a UN disaster conference held in Japan.

Mugabe's latest visit comes as Japan has tried to maintain cordial ties even with states controlled by leaders who have antagonised Western nations, most notably Iran.

Abe has also reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin - under intense criticism in the West for the annexation of Crimea and fighting in eastern Ukraine - as Japan tries to solve a territorial row dating to the close of World War II.

Mugabe has led Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, with his rule marked by vote-rigging, mass emigration, accusations of human rights abuses and economic decline.

His government has been accused of systematic human rights abuses and tipping the country into a severe crisis through a campaign of violent land seizures.
Japan's government says it will stick to its policy of not possessing nuclear weapons, after US presidential hopeful Donald Trump said he would be open to the idea of Japan and South Korea having their own atomic arsenals.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters today that the country's "three principles of not owning, making or allowing nuclear weapons remain an important basic policy of the government."



Trump said in an interview with The New York Times published yesterday that asking Japan and South Korea to pay more for their own defence "could mean nuclear."



He said the issue "at some point is something that we have to talk about."



A South Korean Defence Ministry spokesman said he had no comment on Trump's remark.
The Jammu and Kashmir government has approved the Master plan 2031 for the Katra town of the Reasi district.

"The State Administrative Council (SAC), which met here today under the Chairmanship of Governor N N Vohra, approved the Master Plan-2031 of Katra Town", an official spokesman said.

He said that the revised Master Plan of Katra would be covering a Local Area of 79. 56 sq km in comparison to the present 11.06 sq km.

Katra Town, situated on foothills of Trikuta Mountains, is the base camp for the pilgrimage to the renowned Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

Huge commercial expansion of this town and its railway connectivity in the recent past had necessitated a mid-term revision of the existing Master Plan of Katra, which would have otherwise continued till 2021, he said.

The State Administrative Council (SAC), also approved the implementation of Unnat Jyoti by affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) Programme in the State through Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL), a PSU under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

The programme, earlier called Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP), shall help in promoting energy efficiency culture across the state.

The focus of this new initiative is to make the common citizen aware of the benefits of energy efficiency, the spokesman said.

Under UJALA, EESL will provide up to five LED lamps of 9W each to every registered domestic consumer in the State at a highly subsidized rate of Rs 20 per LED lamp which is sold in the market for Rs 250 to Rs 300.

A pack of five lamps will be sold for only Rs 100 to every registered domestic consumer.

The balance amount of about Rs 77 per lamp will be borne by the State Government as subsidy, the spokesman said.

He said that 80 lakh LED bulbs are proposed to be



distributed among about 16 lakh registered domestic consumers in the State.

This is expected to entail a subsidy of Rs 61.44 crore.

The State Administrative Council also approved the framework for implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funded projects in J&K.

The framework has been evolved in the backdrop of expression of positive interest by a number of fully partly-owned State and Central Government Companies Corporations operating in J&K, besides individuals and philanthropists, including members of the J&K Diaspora, pan India and abroad who are willing to contribute towards the efforts of the State Government for rebuilding public infrastructure which has been damaged by the varied difficult circumstances which have obtained in the State for the past many years.

The SAC also approved the framework to rationalize retention of facilities like government accommodation, telephone and vehicles provided to the constitutional authorities, political and media-persons in the state.

As per the new Standing Operating Procedures (SoPs), the permissible period for retention of government accommodation in case of expiry of the term, termination of appointment, relinquishing of office of constitutional dignitaries, Ministers Legislators and others shall be one month.

"The aforesaid authorities shall be required to surrender vehicles and official telephones within one week", the spokesman said.

He said that further, allotments in respect of media persons granted under discretionary quota placed at the disposal of Minister, in charge Estates will be reviewed annually by the end of March every year and placed before the Chief Minister for his orders as regards the continuation or otherwise.

For political persons, former legislators and freedom fighters, allotments will be granted under the discretionary quota placed at the disposal of Minister in charge Estates on the recommendations of a Committee headed by ADG Security.
A Supreme Court judge Justice R K Agrawal today recused himself from hearing the appeal against an Allahabad High Court order upholding the conviction of Uttar Pradesh's former chief secretary Neera Yadav in the Noida plot scam.

"Place the matter before another bench. List the matter for Friday," a bench comprising justices A K Sikri and R K Agrawal said.

As soon as the matter came up for hearing, Justice Sikri said that Justice Agrawal had expressed some reservation in the case and therefore the matter be listed before some other bench.

Yadav had surrendered on March 14 before a CBI court in Ghaziabad after her appeal was dismissed and conviction upheld by the Allahabad high court. She had moved the apex court challenging the Allahabad High Court order upholding her conviction and also sought bail.

A CBI court in Ghaziabad had convicted Yadav and senior IAS officer Rajeev Kumar in 2012 in a Noida plot scam that took place between 1994 and 1995 and sentenced them to three years' imprisonment.

Yadav was the CEO of Noida Authority at the time of scam and Kumar was her deputy.

The 1971 batch IAS officer, Yadav, who went on to become UP's first woman chief secretary during the Samajwadi's government in 2005, took voluntary retirement in 2008.

The CBI probe was ordered by the Supreme Court on a petition filed by one Noida Entrepreneurs Association in 1997.
Karnataka government is ready to move a resolution in the Assembly seeking the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in resolving the inter-state Mahadayi river dispute, a minister today said.

Water Resources Minister MB Patil made the statement in the Assembly as JD(S) demanded House resolution, by entering the Well of the House.

Responding to the Minister's statement, Speaker Kagodu Thimmappa said a notice has to be given before moving a resolution.

As Patil said he will go by the procedures, JD(S) members, who were in the well of the House, went back to their seats.

BJP, which is opposed to any such resolution, has instead suggested that the Congress government in the state should convince their party colleagues in Goa and Maharashtra about out of court settlement to the issue.

Parts of north Karnataka are seeing protests demanding implementation of Kalasa-Banduri canal project, over which the state government has locked horns with neighbouring Goa.

The Kalasa-Banduri Nala (diversion) project, which will utilise 7.56 tmcft of water from the inter-state Mahadayi river, is being undertaken by Karnataka to improve drinking water supply to the twin cities of Hubballi-Dharwad and the districts of Belagavi and Gadag.

It involves building barrages across Kalasa and Banduri, tributaries of Mahadayi river, in order to divert 7.56 TMC to Malaprabha river which adhers to the drinking water needs of the twin cities.

Earlier Goa government had rejected Karnataka's attempt for out of court settlement of the dispute stating that the people of the state felt it was more prudent to settle the dispute through the Tribunal.

The issue was raised by JD(S) member N H Konareddy as a matter of public importance. He demanded that the House pass a unanimous resolution seeking Prime Minister's intervention.

The minister said a meeting of all political parties and stake holders had been convened by the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss the future course of action.

As Konareddy demanded that a resolution be passed, the Speaker said he will have to look into it as the House resolution should also get a respectable response.

Intervening, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said for a resolution there should be unanimity of the House and all its members. Pointing out that BJP is not in favour of it, he questioned the party's commitment in solving the issue.

He said "only way is Prime Minister intervening, that's the only way to solve it out of tribunal.

Angered by this, BJP members hit back at Siddaramaiah



accusing him of politicising the issue. They also advised him to convince opposition parties in Maharashtra and Goa.

Minister Patil said according to rules a resolution cannot be passed regarding the matters pending before the court or tribunal, "but we can pass a resolution seeking PM's intervention."



As BJP members opposed this, Speaker Thimmappa said "come to a conclusion on passing a resolution during the meeting called by the Chief Minister on April 2."



Confusion prevailed for some time as JD(S) leader H D Revanna said the Minister has already moved the resolution



As Speaker sought the clarification from the Minister, Patil said he is ready to move the motion in the House seeking the Prime Minister's intervention.

The Speaker then directed him to give the notice on it first.
Karnataka government today rejected Opposition BJP's demand for a judicial inquiry into the murder of a party worker in Mysuru earlier this month.

BJP member C T Ravi raised the issue in the Assembly and demanded a judicial probe in the case, calling it a political murder for which a fair investigation was needed.

Another BJP member Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri questioned as to why police was unable to make any arrest in the murder case so far.

Raju (30) was attacked with machetes and other lethal weapons when he was drinking tea at a roadside stall with his friend on the evening of March 13, with the murder leading to stray violence in Mysuru.

Responding to the issue, Home Minister G Parameshwara said investigation was on and the murderers will be arrested soon, adding, there was no intention to protect anyone.

Rejecting the demand for judicial inquiry, he said there was no need for it.

On a demand of Rs 25 lakh compensation to the victim's family, he said there was nothing under rules to give monetary relief in murder cases "but still on humanitarian grounds, government has given Rs five lakh compensation already."



He said the government will look into the demand for job for one of Raju's family members.

(REOPENS MDS3)



Meanwhile, the ashes of the slain Hindu Munnani



functionary were immersed in the River Noyyal at Chadivayal on the outskirts of Coimbatore today.

Unlike the funeral procession, which witnessed violence and arson, the ceremony was a low-key affair confined to only relatives and a handful leaders of Hindu outfits, with the police keeping strict vigil.

BJP, which had announced state-wide protests against the killing, decided to not to stage any demonstration in and around the city.

CB-CID ADGP Karan Singh inspected the scene of the crime on the outskirts of Coimbatore.

He also held discussions with senior police officials, police said.
RSS today accused Leftist scholars of attempting to replace 'India' with 'South Asia' in textbooks in California and said efforts by Hindu activists for have thwarted their bid to "undermine the country's glorious identity".

Hindus in the US are up in arms against suggestions mooted by California's Department of Education to make changes in textbooks which they alleged not only distorted India's history but ignored facts on Hinduism.

"Congrats to Hindu activists for successfully opposing and contesting the suggestion to replace 'India' by 'South Asia' in textbooks in USA.

"The Leftist scholars' bid to undermine India's glorious identity was foiled by young Hindu activists and Hindu Education Foundation (HEF) in California, USA," RSS spokesperson Manmohan Vaidya said.

He said India has its own identity that needs to be preserved and termed the move to replace it with 'South Asia' as "wrong".

"India has its own identity. India has a glorious civilisation and cultural history which was known the world over. It is very wrong to deprive India's identity. The Hindu activists have rightly carried out a campaign and demonstrated against the move," he told PTI.

Following protests from Hindus, the California Education Department decided not to go ahead with some of the suggested changes like replacing 'India' with 'South Asia' in state textbooks.

Bill Honig, Chair of the Subject Matter Committee of the Commission, said, at a public hearing, that they reject the suggestion for removal of India but agreed to add 'South Asia' in parenthesis after most mentions to ancient India.

The new recommendations will be forwarded to the State Board of Education for their consideration and the final draft of the framework is to be accepted later this year.
Maharashtra Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse today said the state government will "crush" all attempts to raise anti-national slogans and vitiate atmosphere in educational institutions.

Khadse, the Leader of the House in the state Legislative Council, said the government will not tolerate attempts at disturbing atmosphere by statements that "people would not chant slogans like 'Vande Mataram' and 'Bharatmata Ki Jai'".

"The government will crush all attempts to raise anti- national slogans," he said.

He also said the government will probe whether the event at Fergusson College in Pune in which (JNUSU President) Kanhaiya Kumar was invited had permission.

"The question is not that any outsider is being accused of anti-national activities, but an MLA, who was not even invited to the College, goes there and tries to vitiate the atmosphere," Khadse said.

He was making an intervention after Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde and others tried to move a series of adjournment motions over the event at Fergusson College, Nanded farmer suicide and the 'purification' ritual at 'Chavdar Tale' in Mahad in Raigad district.

Kapil Patil (Lok Bharti) raised the issue of a 'purification' ritual at 'Chavdar Tale' in Mahad in Raigad district, where Babasaheb Ambedkar had led "water satyagraha" to assert the rights of Dalits to use the water in the lake in 1927.

Anil Parab (Shiv Sena) intervened and said the function in Mahad was an official one and that invites were sent to elected representatives as well.
A prison nursery inside the Aadharwadi district jail in Kalyan was inaugurated.

The nursery, inaugurated yesterday by Kalyan Mayor Rajendra Deolekar, in the presence of Jail Superintendent Suhas Pawar, will help around 20 children of the woman inmates.

Rotary Club of Dombivili West has helped prison authorities to set up the Nursery.

Deolekar told PTI that at present the Nursery will impart education to around 20 children.

"There are 80 women prisoners lodged inside the jail at present. There is a need to educate children of these women inmates," he added.

The mayor further said that the Kalyan Dombivili Municipal Corporation will help prison authorities in setting up a library inside the jail premises.

Jail officials said teaching staff will be from the prison staff and also those from the women and child welfare department of Maharashtra government.

A prison nursery is a section of a prison that houses incarcerated mothers and their children.
The police have arrested a 39-year old man who allegedly murdered his lover, whose body was found at a rented house in central Delhi's Paharganj area.

The accused, identified as Shahdat Ali, was in a relationship with the victim, who turned out to be the wife of his former room-mate, police said today.

"The accused was a big fan of CID serial and on the basis of the information gathered by watching the serial, he hatched the plan to eliminate the deceased," DCP (Central) Parmaditya said.

According to police, the incident came to light on March 25, when residents of a Paharganj locality complained of stench emanating from a locked house and the police later found a decomposed body -- with its limbs tied and throat slit -- inside the premises.

However, none of the neighbours or even the owner of the house could identify the woman.

With further questioning, the police zeroed in on a man who had introduced himself as Vishal to the landlord and taken the keys, saying that he would shift to the house soon. It later emerged that the man left for his native village in Jharkhand on March 26.

A team was sent there and the accused, whose actual name turned out to be Shahdat Ali, was arrested yesterday, police said.

During interrogation, it came to light that in 2012, the deceased's husband, who was former room-mate of Ali in Gurgaon, took a room near Ali's residence and Ali soon developed an intimate relationship with his wife.

Lately, he started suspecting that the woman was in relationship with some other men too, which infuriated him and often led to heated arguments, police said.

Ali, who was a regular viewer of the popular TV serial CID, allegedly hatched a plan to kill his lover. He rented a room in Paharganj and on the pretext of shifting there after Holi, he locked the room after taking its possession.

On March 22, he invited the woman to his new room where he tied her hands. Thereafter, he allegedly slit her throat with a knife,locked the room from outside and fled, police said.

During the investigation, it also came to light that a missing report for the woman was filed by her husband on March 23.

Ali, who worked as a paint technician in a reputed automobile company, turned out to be the main suspect. He was soon tracked down and a team was sent to nab him.
Union Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi will lay the foundation stone of the country's "largest" widow Home, which will have a capacity to house 1,000 women, in Vrindavan tomorrow.

"The Foundation stone for the Home will be laid by the WCD Minister under the 'Swadhar Greh Scheme' of the WCD Ministry. This will be the largest ever Home for widows established or funded by the government," a senior official in the ministry said.

"It was observed that the condition of widows in existing Swadhar Home at Vrindavan was not satisfactory. Therefore, to provide better living conditions to a large number of widows at Vrindavan, the Ministry decided to construct a 1,000-bedded Home at Vrindavan with all the required facilities," he said.

The Home will be constructed on 1.424 hectare of land by National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC) at an estimated cost of 57 Crores (including cost of the land), he said.

"The design of the Home has been prepared in consultation with HelpAge India and is also 'old age' friendly. The Home will consist of ground plus three floors with the facilities of ramp, lifts, supply of adequate electricity, water and other amenities for meeting the requirement of senior citizens and persons with special challenges," he said.

The Home, fully funded by the central government, will be constructed at Sunrakh Bangar, Pargana Vrindavan.
E Sreedharan, former MD, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), met the Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis here today.

An official in the Chief Minister's office described the meeting as a courtesy call.

"Fadnavis requested Sreedharan to extend his help for the Metro projects in Maharashtra," the official said.

"Sreedharan's response was positive," he added.

In February this year, Sreedharan had expressed satisfaction over the progress of the Nagpur Metro project.

Sreedharan recently said India should upgrade and improve the present railway infrastructure rather than investing in bullet trains at this juncture.
Militants fired four rockets at the Afghan Parliament today with one impacting the new building that was built with India's assistance, media reports said.

The incident took place when senior security officials were on their way to the building to brief lawmakers on the current situation in the country, Khaama Press reported.

Four rockets were fired on the Parliament building. One of the rockets impacted the building, two others landed in surrounding areas while one of them landed in an army base nearby, eyewitnesses were quoted as saying.

A lawmaker said the MPs and other people in the building were safe.

Today's attack came just over three months after the new Parliament building, built with India's assistance, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The swanky new building was built by India at a cost of USD 90 million.

The Parliament building project was started by India in 2007 as a mark of friendship and cooperation to help rebuild Afghanistan.

Today's incident also comes days after a heavy blast rocked Kabul after a bike packed with explosives was detonated.
An Infosys employee from Bengaluru, who was missing since the deadly Brussels bombings, has been confirmed dead in the March 22 terror attack.

A week after the terror assault shook the Belgian capital, also the headquarters of the European Union, the Indian Embassy there and the Ministry of External Affairs today confirmed the death of Raghavendran Ganesh.

"The Belgian authorities have identified Raghavendran as one of the victims of the barbaric terror attacks of March 22," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

The Indian Embassy in Brussels said the mortal remains of Raghavendran are being handed over to his family for being taken to India.

"Mortal remains are in process of being handed to family of Raghavendran, to be taken to India from Amsterdam airport," the Embassy tweeted.

Ganesh had gone missing in Brussels since the terror



attacks.

"RIP Raghvendran ! We offer our deepest condolences 2 the family and friends," the Indian Embassy tweeted.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had last week said the Indian Embassy was making all efforts to trace Ganesh.

Infosys had last week said it was coordinating with the Indian Embassy and local authorities to locate Ganesh and was in touch with his family.

At least 35 people were killed and over 300 injured in the attacks at Brussels Airport and Maelbeek metro station.
Mizoram government is planning to repatriate Brus from six Tripura relief camps soon, Home Minister R Lalzirliana informed the state assembly today.

The meeting convened by Ministry of Home Affairs, which was attended by both Mizoram and Tripura government officials on January 8, decided to again make preparations for repatriation of Brus from Tripura relief camps, Lalzirliana said in reply to a question from Lalruatkima of the Mizo National Front (MNF).

"The movement plan for the repatriation process has been scheduled to be completed by May 31, 2016," he said, adding that not a single Bru had returned to Mizoram in the last repatriation attempt.

The state government, he said, had submitted a requirement for Rs 68.50 crore for implementation of the Road Map-IV for Bru Repatriation undertaken during June to September last year.

"The MHA released Rs 4.7 crore as the first installment and Rs 5 crore in the second instalment," the minister said.

Of the Rs 4.7 crore, expenses of Rs 46.57 lakh were incurred during the repatriation process, he said.

Lalzirliana said though the government did not conduct a census in the six relief camps, it assumed that there were 20,710 people, including 11,446 minors, in the six relief camps.

(Reopens CES6)



Lalzirliana said that the Brus, lodged in the Tripura



relief camps, made ten-point demands to the Centre on the basis of which the MHA had agreed to extend the period of giving free ration from one year to two years.

He said that the demand for allotment of permanent land could not be done due to non-availability of land while the demand for settlement of not less than 500 families could not be accepted as it was against the government policy to settle people on communal lines.

The demand for deployment of Central Para Military Forces (CPMF) for security of the Bru inhabited areas was rejected as the state government has full faith in the state police and deployment of CPMF would entail additional expenses which the state government could not afford, he said.

He also said that the documents provided by the Tripura government to the inmates of the relief camps could not be accepted for determination of bona fide residents of Mizoram as many Brus who were in the relief camps were from Tripura and Assam.

The state government did not have any intention to establish Reang/Bru Area Development Council, Lalzirliana said while replying to supplementaries said.

However, one-time development project could be justified once all of them returned to Mizoram, he said.
Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj says he sees his National award win for adapted screenplay in "Talvar" as an encouragement to write better stories in future.

This is Bhardwaj's second consecutive National award win. He won the best screenplay (dialogue) award last year for "Haider".

"This is my seventh award National award. I am very happy this time as it's a for a film like 'Talvar', whose story needed to be told. This is my second film alone as a writer so it gives me confidence, a boost to write," Bhardwaj told PTI.

The 50-year-old filmmaker, who is currently shooting for upcoming period drama "Rangoon", said he will celebrate the win with his team.

"Initially when my producer told me about the award I couldn't believe it I wanted to hear (it on TV) and see it myself. The congratulatory messages made me feel it's true. In the evening I will party with my team.
Nearly 1,500 migrants, including many women and children, have been rescued in the Mediterranean off the coast of Libya over the past two days, the Italian coastguard said today.

A total of 1,482 people were picked up in about a dozen rescue operations at sea yesterday and today, according to the Italian coastguard which coordinated the search and rescue efforts.

They did not release the nationalities of the migrants and refugees.

They said 730 people were rescued on Sunday and 752 on today. They did not provide a breakdown of the number of children and women on board.

The UN refugee agency said last week that nearly 14,500 migrants had arrived in Italy via Libya since the start of the year, up 42.5 per cent on the same period a year earlier.

Libya has long been a stepping stone for migrants seeking a better life in Europe, with Italy some 300 kilometres (185 miles) across the sea.

European leaders fear that a recent deal with Ankara to stem the flow of migrants arriving in Greece via Turkey will increase crossings attempts from Libya.
Delhi High Court was today told by the government that the issue of ascertaining whether a juvenile has been reformed before his release from a special home on expiry of period of stay, has been addressed in the new Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act.

The submission was made by the government as well as by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy before a bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath during the hearing of the politician's plea seeking stay on the release of the juvenile convict in the horrific December 16, 2012 gangrape case and the issue of trying such juveniles as adults.

"The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act of 2000 has been repealed and new Act of 2015 has come into force from January 15, 2016. Issue sought to be raised has been taken care of in the new Act. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to adjudicate present petition on merits," the bench said and disposed of Swamy's plea.

The court granted him liberty to raise the issue in future if he felt the new Act has not adequately dealt with the matter.

The court on December 18 last year had cleared the decks for release of the juvenile convict in the gangrape case by saying he cannot be stopped from walking free under existing legal provisions.

The Juvenile Justice Board had sentenced the juvenile to three years detention in a reformation home.

Six persons, including the juvenile, had brutally assaulted and raped a 23-year-old girl in a moving bus in south Delhi on December 16, 2012. The victim had died in a Singapore hospital on December 29, 2012.

Mukesh, Vinay, Pawan and Akshay were awarded death penalty by trial court in the gangrape and murder case which was later confirmed by Delhi High Court. Their appeals are pending before the Supreme Court.

Accused Ram Singh had allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail on March 11, 2013, and proceedings against him were abated following his death.
The Bihar government has no proposal to carve out new districts and sub-divisions, a minister informed the state Assembly today.

Replying to a starred question by BJP MLA Vidya Sagar Keshari, who represents Forbesganj Assembly seat in Araria district, the state Home Minister in-charge Bijendra Prasad Yadav said that the state government has no proposal to carve out new districts and sub-divisions in Bihar.

Keshari wanted to know from the minister whether the state government has any proposal to upgrade Forbesganj sub-division into a district on the basis of a proposal sent in this regard three years ago after receiving a nod by the local bodies and administration of the said sub-division.

The minister replied in negative when the BJP MLA and his colleagues asked him whether the erstwhile NDA government had set up a committee ten years ago, under the chairmanship of the then deputy chief minister, to find out viability of carving out new districts and sub-divisions.

As of date, Bihar has 38 districts, 101 sub-divisions and 534 blocks.
There was "no verifiable information" about the fate of a priest from Kerala who was allegedly abducted by terror group Islamic State in Yemen earlier this month, government sources said today.

The information came against the backdrop of reports claiming that the militant group had planned to execute the priest Tom Uzhunnallil on Good Friday last week. However, there has been no report of any harm to him so far.

There is no verifiable information with the government on Father Tom Uzhunnallil, the sources said.

Uzhunnalil had gone missing in Yemen after the Islamic State terrorists attacked a care home run by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity.

The gunmen had stormed the refuge for the elderly earlier this month and killed a Yemeni guard before tying up and shooting 15 other employees.

Four foreign nuns, including an Indian, working as nurses were among those killed.

Last week, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had said India was making all efforts to secure the priest's release. Sources said the government has even approached the Vatican in this regard.
Oil prices drifted lower today, extending last week's decline amid a global oversupply, with trading activity severely limited by market holidays in Europe.

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in May fell seven cents to USD 39.39 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

In London, Brent North Sea for May delivery, the European benchmark, fell 17 cents to $40.27 a barrel.

"The steam has gone out from the bull market for now," said Mike Lynch of Strategic Energy & Economic Research.

"Unless we get some more serious bullish -- either inventories information, out of OPEC or economic -- news, so far we're still waiting."



Oil prices last week posted their first weekly decline in a month and a half.

Much of the downturn reflected pressure from a US government report that said US commercial crude inventories had jumped a huge 9.4 million barrels in the prior week, adding to worries about the long-running global glut.

Before that, oil had rebounded since February on speculation that major producers could agree to freeze output or take some action to curb falling prices.

Members of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and key non-members led by Russia are due to discuss a proposed output freeze at a meeting in Doha on April 17.

"The petroleum markets have been unable to hold minor overnight gains as traders are beginning to focus more on rising inventories than on hopes that a meeting between most OPEC producers with Russia and some other non-OPEC producers will transform a surplus into a deficit," said Tim Evans of Citi Futures.

Evans said that based on the producers' stated agenda for freezing output at January levels, a bullish outcome for the market was not anticipated.

"We see potential for prices to begin weakening even ahead of the meeting as this probability begins to sink in," he said.

Bernard Aw at IG Markets noted that market business was modest due to the long Easter break across most world markets.
The ruling and opposition parties today had a heated discussion in Legislative Council over suicide by a farmer opposite the Mantralaya (state secretariat) here last week.

The Opposition demanded that a murder case be registered against "errant officials".

However, state Agriculture Minister Eknath Khadse said the state government had done all it could, and that the farmer had received drought aid over a month back.

Madhav Kadam, a farmer from Nanded district, had attempted suicide by consuming an insecticide opposite the state secretariat here on March 23, allegedly because of not receiving drought compensation despite his crop failure. He later died in an hospital on March 26.

As the House assembled for the day, Leader of Opposition Dhananjay Munde, via an adjournment motion, said a government which believes in communicating through social media cannot respond to the cries of farmers.

"This suicide incident has happened because the government excluded farmers sowing cotton from getting compensation for crop failure. This is a government that believes in communicating through social media. But, why does it not hear the cries of farmers?" he asked.

He said the farmer had met a few ministers, tehsildar and Collector asking for help, but did not receive any.

Jayant Patil (of PWP) said it is the first time in the history of the state that a farmer has committed suicide in front of Mantralaya.

"(Eknath) Khadse, while he was in the Opposition, had many a times demanded that a murder case be lodged against officials when a farmer committed suicide. Now, the district collector should be charged under IPC section 302," he said.
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today admitted the pace of negotiation with France for 36 Rafale jets was "not enough" but hoped it will be concluded "very soon", nearly a year after a government-to- government deal for the multi-medium role combat aircraft was announced.

The Minister also brushed aside the recent statement of Vice Chief of Air Staff B S Dhanoa, slated to be the next air chief, that the IAF does not have the numbers to fight a two-front war with China and Pakistan.

"We are definitely very serious about the . And it is definitely moving though, I agree that the speed is not enough," said Parrikar at the Defexpo in Goa.

He said France and India would "very soon" conclude the deal and added "I am not putting a timeline because ultimately money is a problem and we should get a good deal."



In April last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced India would go for a government-to-government deal with France for purchasing the fighter planes. But a final contract in this regard is yet to be signed. The sticking point is the price of the aircraft.

It is said the 36 aircraft, along with missile systems and support, will cost around Rs 65,000 crore but India is looking at buying them for about Rs 59,000 crore.

Asked about Dhanoa's comment, Parrikar said India is "quite well prepared". "Preparedness is not necessarily decided on strength. It also depends on many other capacities, beyond fighter aircraft also," he said.

Talking about the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Minister said there is a "difference in perception of the border".

On his Ministry's annual report that said China's assertiveness along the LAC has increased, he said, "Assertiveness is existing but I don't think we are saying that we are not assertive. We are also assertive.

"Our assertiveness has increased but we feel that solutions could be found by mechanism which the two countries work out."



He also said that confidence building measures like setting up of hotlines and new border meeting points were "providing results".
Thousands of supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, who was hanged for killing liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer, today besieged the Pakistani capital's high-security zone demanding that the Islamist assassin be declared a "martyr".

Yesterday, about 25,000 protesters prayed for Qadri in Rawalpindi, a month after he was hanged for shooting Taseer, and then marched towards Islamabad's Red Zone, breaking barriers that had been erected.

Of the 25,000, about 3,000 supporters of Qadri continued their sit ins outside the Parliament House and other key government installations for the second day today agitating against the execution of Qadri who was hanged on February 29 for the 2011 murder of Taseer.

Police and Rangers fired tear gas shells on the protesters yesterday in a bid to contain them. At least 42 security officials and 16 citizens were injured in the clashes which followed, Geo reported.

The media bore the brunt of the protesters' fury as they attacked media persons, injuring some of them and damaging their equipment. The protesters claimed that the media was not covering the event in an objective manner.

About 10,000 protesters led by Sunni Tehreek and Tehreek- i-Labbaik Ya Rasool religious groups entered the so-called high-security Red Zone after bloody clashes with police.

The worsening law and order forced the government to deploy the army to control the situation.

The protesters said they would stay in the Red Zone unless Qadri was declared a martyr and Sharia law implemented in the country. They also demanded release of their leaders and conversion of Qadri's Adiala Jail cell into a national heritage site.

The protesters are demanding that the government scrap any plans to amend the blasphemy laws, and execute all those convicted of blasphemy, including Aasia Bibi, the Christian woman who was sentenced to death in 2010 that triggered a global outcry.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Islamic 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 it.

An official said that so far the government has not resorted to use of force to evict the protesters as back channel efforts were on to convince the protest leaders to disperse peacefully.

Meanwhile, residents of the capital and nearby Rawalpindi faced immense problems as mobile phone services were suspended in several areas while Internet was also slow.

Additional security checks were applied at various entry points leading to the capital and traffic was thin on roads.
Pakistan today launched a massive military operation in Punjab province in the wake of the deadly Taliban suicide bombing in Lahore, conducting raids and making several arrests.

Intelligence agencies along with Army and Rangers personnel carried out a series of operations in different parts of Punjab, the country's most populous province, a day after the suicide blast at a popular park in which 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed.

"A number of suspected terrorists and facilitators have been arrested during the five raids which were conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan after the Lahore suicide explosion," army media wing Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said earlier but did not officially say that a widespread operation had been launched similar to the ones underway in the country's northwest and Karachi.

He added that a "huge cache of arms and ammunition" were also recovered by security officials.

There has long been a demand for launching a military operation in southern part of Punjab province because of the presence of militants hideouts there.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Gen Raheel Sharif separately chaired high-level security meetings to review the situation and directed law enforcement agencies including Army and Rangers to launch a comprehensive operation in Punjab province.

Police were also able to identify the Lahore suicide bomber as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of Muzzafargarh in southern Punjab.

He was believed to be between 20-25 years old. A sketch prepared with the help of eye-witnesses showed him with beard.

During the meeting, Sharif was briefed by heads of law enforcement and intelligence agencies on different leads-based progress regarding yesterday's blast at the park, which was comparatively more crowded due to the Easter holiday.

The park is located in a posh-locality in Lahore, the hometown of the premier.

"Terrorists and their facilitators will eventually meet their logical end. We have to win the war (against terror). Coward terrorists are targeting innocent children and women," said Sharif.

The whole nation would have to be united in the face of terrorism, he said, adding that the provinces should speed up intelligence-based operations against terrorists.

"We must take this war to the doors of terrorist outfits before they are able to hit our innocent countrymen.

"We will not let terrorists play with the lives of innocent people," he said and directed the intelligence agencies have better coordination with each other to prevent terror attacks.

"Our resolve to fight terrorism as a nation and as a government is getting stronger. Our goal is not only to eliminate terror infrastructure but also the extremist mind-set, which is a threat to our way of life," he said.

Sharif said that winning the war against terrorism was "imperative" for the country.

He once again resolved to eliminate the threat of terrorism from the country, according to an official statement.

"The terrorists have assassinated our kids; sons and daughters in this war, and God willing, we will wipe them out from this country," he said.

The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan, and Law Minister Punjab Rana Sanaullah Khan.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister visited Jinnah hospital Lahore on his arrival from Islamabad and met the injured of the Gulshan-i-Iqbal tragedy.

Wishing them good health and speedy recovery, Sharif spent some time with the injured and was also briefed on their condition by hospital management.

He directed for special medical care of the injured.

Former interior minister Rehman Malik had said that there were at least 150 sleeper cells of banned Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) - which reportedly has joined hands with the banned Tahreek-e-Taliban Pakistan - in south Punjab.
A Pakistani-origin shopkeeper in the UK has been brutally killed by another Muslim in a "religiously prejudiced" attack hours after he posted an Easter message on Facebook to "my beloved Christian nation".

Asad Shah, 40, a devout Muslim originally from the Pakistani city of Rabwah, was stabbed 30 times and had his head stamped on during a savage attack at his store in Glasgow last Thursday, British media reported today.

On Friday, police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man, who travelled over 320 km to kill the trader belonging to the Ahmadiyya minority community, had been arrested in connection with Shah's death.

A spokeswoman added: "A full investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death which is being treated as religiously prejudiced."



Yesterday, prominent members of Glasgow's Muslim community called for calm and solidarity after police confirmed that the man arrested in connection with the killing was also a Muslim.

Following the revelation, Humza Yousaf, the Scottish government's only Muslim minister, immediately responded in a tweet: "No ifs, no buts, no living in denial - vile cancer of sectarianism needs stamped out wherever it exists - including amongst Muslims."



Shah, whose final Facebook update, posted a few hours before his death, offered Easter greetings "to my beloved Christian nation", was a member of the minority Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Pakistan.

The Ahmadiyya community faces persecution in Pakistan and is treated with open hostility by many orthodox Muslims.

Meanwhile, over 70,000 pounds has been raised on an online fundraising page for the family of Shah, the Guardian reported.

Over 3,500 people have donated on the GoFundMe page, which was created on Good Friday by some of his customers to raise money for his family, the report said.
The first president of Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) Sardar Sham Singh has died of brain hemorrhage.

The 80-year-old Sham Singh breathed his last yesterday at the Combined Military Hospital here.

"Sham Singh suffered brain hemorrhage last week. He was shifted to theCombined Military Hospital in Lahore where doctors could not save his life," Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) spokesman Amir Hashmi said.

His last rites were performed at Gurdwara Janamesthan Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak. A large number Sikhs attended the cremation ceremony.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of Sham Singh.

"Sham Singh's services for Sikh community within Pakistan and around the world would be remembered in golden words," the prime minister said in a statement, as he extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

The ETPB which looks after the holy places of minorities in Pakistan, will call a meeting of the PSGPC to choose its new president. PSGPC comes under the ETPB.

"We will call the meeting of PSGPC in a week or so to select new president," Hashmi said.

Sham Singh was elected first president of the PSGPC after it was established by the Pakistan government in 1998. He was re-appointed in 2008.

His appointment was controversial and was initially opposed by the Amritsar-headquartered Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the top body of the Sikhs which used to manage Pakistan's Sikh shrines prior to the establishment of PSGPC in 1998.

Born on December 11, 1936 in Kadrabad village of Faisalabad district of Punjab.
The death of a Dalit man allegedly due to starvation in Bihar's Sheikhpura district recently, has snowballed into a political controversy with Union Minister Ramvilas Paswan today demanding a judicial probe into the matter.

However, the state Food and Consumer Protection Minister Madan Sahni maintained that the 60-year-old Jago Manjhi died on Friday due to "illness and not because of hunger".

The Dalit elder's death punches hole in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's agenda of good governance and implementation of the PDS in Bihar, the LJP supremo told reporters.

"It's matter of concern that a Dalit man Jago Manjhi has succumbed due to starvation in a village under Barbigha despite availing benefits under the Atyodaya scheme," the Union Food and Consumer Affairs Minister said.

Quoting media reporters to substantiate his allegation that Manjhi died due to starvation, Paswan asked the state government to explain as to what action it has taken against those officials responsible for running PDS in Bihar.

Whether the deceased man's family was being supplied subsidized foodgrain or not must be made public, he said and claimed that the Bihar government was lifting its hundred quota of foodgrains from the Centre under the National Food Security Act.

Demanding a judicial probe into Manjhi's death, Paswan said a central team will be reaching Patna this evening to find out implementation of the Food Security Act in Bihar.

On being told by the media persons that the Dalit man died due to illness not starvation as claimed by the state government, the LJP said the circumstances in which the 60 year-old Manjhi died was not acceptable at all and also cited the reports which had claimed that the deceased had not eaten for two days prior to his death on Friday last.

Sahni, however, said, "The deceased's family has been receiving monthly quota of 35 kg foodgrains and so no question arises about his death due to starvation....

"Manjhi had died due to certain illness for which he was admitted to a government hospital for treatment," Sahni said outside the state Assembly premises.
In a stern warning to wilful defaulters like Vijay Mallya, Minister Arun Jaitley said they should settle their dues honourably with the or else be ready to face "coercive action" by lenders and investigative agencies.

"I don't want to make any comments on individual cases but I think it's a responsibility of large groups like his (Vijay Mallya's) to honourably settle their dues with the banks," he told PTI in an interview in New Delhi.

He further said that have certain collaterals of group companies of and will take legal action to recover dues that are in excess of Rs 9,000 crore.

" have some securities. Banks plus other agencies have also coercive methods available with them through legal enforcement. These are all being investigated by relevant agencies," he said.

Mallya, promoter of long-grounded Kingfisher Airlines, had left India on March 2, presumably for London, days before the Supreme Court heard a plea of clutch of state-owned banks seeking recovery from his group firms.

Mallya and Kingfisher Airlines owed Rs 7,800 crore to a consortium of 17 lenders led by State Bank, which had an exposure of over Rs 1,600 crore to the now defunct airline.

Other banks that have exposure to the airline include Punjab National Bank and IDBI Bank (Rs 800 crore each), Bank of India (Rs 650 crore), Bank of Baroda (Rs 550 crore), Central Bank of India (Rs 410 crore).

UCO Bank has to recover Rs 320 crore, Corporation Bank (Rs 310 crore), State Bank of Mysore, (Rs 150 crore), Indian Overseas Bank (Rs 140 crore), Federal Bank (Rs 90 crore), Punjab & Sind Bank (Rs 60 crore) and Axis Bank (Rs 50 crore).

The Minister said the government has been trying to address the problem of NPAs in sectors such as steel, textile, highways and infrastructure, which are on account of economic slowdown.

"I think the NPA resolution process will now begin. The sectors which have caused distress. I have always said that there are two kinds of NPAs. One is because of economic environment, the losses in certain categories of industry. Now those areas we are trying to address," he said.
Police today arrested a painter nine years after he allegedly went on a Ripper-style killing spree bludgeoning at least nine persons on pavements to death.

Kunjumon, a drug addict, began his killing spree in 2007, police said.

His modus operandi was to rob persons sleeping on pavements and then bludgeon them to death with a huge stone if they awoke.

Recently, he had tried to attack a man, who managed to escape.

Following a police complaint, Kunjumon was arrested and during questioning, confessed to killing at least nine persons, police said.

Ripper-style attacks refer to an unidentified serial killer named 'Jack the Ripper' who was thought to have brutally murdered and mutilated five prostitutes in impoverished areas in and around the Whitechapel district of London from 1888 to 1891.
Andhra Pradesh government today said it was ready for a CBI investigation into the Agri Gold Estates and Farms scandal but with a rider that YSR Congress chief Y S Jaganmohan Reddy should take responsibility for any eventuality after the probe.

Responding to Jagan's demand for a CBI probe into the Agri Gold issue, Youth Affairs and Labour Minister K Atchannaidu told the Legislative Assembly that the Hyderabad High Court was currently hearing a bunch of petitions on the matter.

"The Government is ready to order a CBI inquiry but the Agri Gold victims do not want it as they may not get refund of their money soon. The Communist parties, too, are opposed to a CBI investigation.

"But if you are ready to give an undertaking and take responsibility for anything that happens, we will order a CBI probe," Atchannaidu said, replying to a short-duration discussion in the Assembly this evening.

Taking part in the discussion, Jagan said Agri Gold cheated its investors to the tune of over Rs 10,000 crore.

"The CBI investigated the Sharada Chit Fund scandal in West Bengal, which was only Rs 2,460 crore. Agri Gold is four times more than Sharada. So it is a fit case for CBI inquiry."



The Leader of Opposition claimed as many as 40 lakh people fell victim to the Agri Gold schemes.

The ongoing investigation by the state CID was not progressing well, he said, alleging the Government was "influencing" it. "Even the High Court found fault with the CID probe," the YSRC leader said.

Jagan's allegation that about 14 acres of land was purchased by Agriculture Minister P Pulla Rao's wife from a Director of an Agri Gold associate firm led to a strong rebuttal from the latter Minister.

Rao also refuted Jagan's claim that the land in question was deliberately omitted from attachment along with other properties of Agri Gold. "If you can prove that the land belonged to Agri Gold or its associates, I will give it back. Also, I will pay penalty for it."



The Labour Minister said the HC has already fixed dates for auctioning of Agri Gold properties attached by the government. "We will ensure that the company's depositors get their due and justice is done."



Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister N China Rajappa, who holds the Home portfolio, informed the House that Agri Gold defaulted on payment of Rs 6,850 crore worth of deposits to about 32 lakh customers.

"The CID is investigating the case and the top management of the firm, including its chairman, have been arrested," the Deputy CM said.

Earlier in the day, the YSRC disrupted proceedings of



the Assembly insisting on a debate on the Agri Gold issue through an adjournment motion.

Speaker Kodela Sivaprasada Rao adjourned the House twice to bring order as the Opposition MLAs remained in the Well and raised slogans.

The Speaker later announced that a short-duration discussion would be taken up on the issue after lunch, following which the House took up regular business.
Pope Francis today appealed to Pakistani authorities to step up security for religious minorities after the "abhorrent" suicide bombing targeting Christians which killed scores in Lahore.

"Yesterday in Pakistan, Holy Easter was bloodied by an abhorrent attack," the pontiff told a crowd gathered in St Peter's Square in his Angelus blessing on Easter Monday.

"Once again, violence and heinous murder lead only to suffering and destruction."



"I appeal to the civil authorities and to all the social constituents of this nation to do everything in their power to restore safety and serenity to the population, particularly the most vulnerable religious minorities", he said.

More than 70 people were killed yesterday in the suicide bombing near a children's play area in a park in Lahore, where many had gathered to celebrate Easter. The Taliban claimed responsibility and said the attack had targeted Christians.

The Vatican yesterday had condemned the attack as "fanatical violence against Christian minorities".
Tens of thousands of homes were without power in northwestern France early today after the region was pounded overnight by winds gusting to hurricane force that also triggered flight cancellations and outages in southern England.

Seven departments, or counties, in Normandy and Brittany were placed on "orange" alert, the second highest in Meteo- France's three-stage warning system.

At least 60,000 homes were without power, more than half of them in the French western peninsula of Brittany, electricity grid operator ERDF said.

Firemen across the two regions were called out more than 400 times, mainly to clear roads blocked by fallen trees and debris, emergency services said.

The strongest gusts were recorded on the Breton tourist island of Belle-Ile, of 150 kilometres per hour.

Coastal dwellers in three departments on the Atlantic -- Finistere, Morbibhan and Loire-Atlantique -- were warned of storm-surge waves.

In Britain, the same weather system -- dubbed "Storm Katie" -- left a trail of disruption in its wake as it swept across southern England overnight, leaving debris and roadwork barriers strewn across London's streets.

Winds gusting to 170 kph an hour forced the cancellation of around 150 flights in and out of Britain and left around 2,000 homes without power.

Heathrow, one of the world's busiest airports, reported around 130 cancellations with other flights delayed or diverted to other airports.

Some 20 flights in and out of London's Gatwick Airport were cancelled and another four diverted.

The Met Office national weather service issued an amber warning for winds for London and southeast England, advising people to be "prepared for disruption to outdoor activities and travel".

The service recorded gusts of 170 kph off the southern England coast, with winds of over 112 kph registered across the south.

A bridge crossing the River Thames in southeast England and the Severn Bridge which connects England and Wales were also closed, according to Highways England.

UK Power Networks said they were dealing with problems across Sussex, Surrey and Kent in southern England, leaving at least 2,000 households without electricity.

"It is particularly southern parts of England bearing the brunt of Storm Katie but also into parts of East Anglia as well, with these potentially damaging and disruptive gusts of wind of 60 to 70 mph -- but possibly more in the most exposed areas," said BBC weather forecaster Nick Miller.

Weather forecasters in both countries expected the storm to fade by the afternoon.
Facing flak from rivals for imposition of President's rule in Uttarakahand, Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad today slammed the Congress for blaming the BJP-led NDA government on the issue when it could not hold its flock together.

"Why do you (Congress) blame us (for imposition of the President's rule in Uttarakhand when you can't keep your MLAs together?" he sarcastically observed.

"What can we do when the Congress workers get angry at the style of functioning of their President Sonia Gandhi, Vice-president Rahul Gandhi and the Chief Ministers of its governments in state?", Prasad asked while deflecting criticism of the NDA government at the Centre for imposition of the President's rule in Uttarakhand.

"If the Congress can't keep its own house together, we need take responsibility for the same," he told reporters.

Reminding the days preceding arrest of JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar on sedition charge for raising anti-national slogans in the JNU campus last month, the Union Minister said that the nature of slogans like 'Bharat ki barbadi tak'; 'jung jari rahegi'; 'Afzal hum sharminda hai', 'tere katil zinda hai' and 'Bharat tere tukre honge, Insha Allah Insha Allah' invited action from the Centre.

On Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar condemning Kanhaiya Kumar's arrest on sedition charge, Prasad asked as to what the former has to say about these 'anti-national' slogans.

On the controversy over chanting of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', the Union Minister said that hundreds of youths gathered last night at 'Dak Bungalow' roundabout here after India's victory over Australia in the World T20 league match and raised slogans 'Bharat Mata ki jai'.

The BJP did not ask these youngsters to chant 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', he said and asked the Chief Minister to take a stand whether those raising nationalistic slogans spontaneously were right or wrong.
Congress today refused to be drawn into judging President Pranab Mukherjee's decision to approve the NDA government's recommendation to impose Central Rule in Uttarakhand, saying it should be left to "his wisdom".

"What the President should have done or should not have done, I am not going to (pass a) judgment (on) that. Let it be confined within the Constitutional arrangements. I think it is best left to the wisdom of the President," Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari said at a press conference here.

He was responding to a query on whether Congress was happy with the role of the President in instantly accepting the recommendation of the Centre when he had the option of sending it for a review.

When pointed out that the President was once a Congress leader, Tiwari said, "President was a senior and respected Congress leader till July 2012. Now he is the President of India and the President of India is a non-party in office."



"The President is bound by the advice of the Council of Ministers. The Constitutional position on that is fairly clear," he said.

He, however, accused the Centre of "murdering democracy" by imposing President's rule in the second Congress-ruled state within two months.

"I would like to point out that when the Governor had given time to Chief Minister for a floor test, when every decision of Supreme Court on (SR) Bommai says that a floor test is the only way to test the majority of a government, then why did the Prime Minister and his Cabinet unceremoniously, almost through a coup, topple the government in Uttarakhand?" he asked.

(Reopens CAL1)



Tewari termed the decision a "dead and sledgehammer blow to Indian federalism" and said the people of the country will give a befitting reply to the BJP government, including in Assam in the upcoming Assembly polls.

"It is a planned systematic design to destabilise and weaken the Congress government. They did it in Arunchal Pradesh by luring MLAs. In Assam, they tried it by stopping funds and changing the funding pattern. It will be dealt with by people of the country," Tewari said.

He said Modi "does not believe in Constitution and the federal structure" of India and behaves in a "dictatorial" manner.

"The Centre is misusing the power to demolish elected governments and this shows the BJP's faith in Constitution and the democratic setup of the country," he said.
JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar today accepted an invitation extended by a students' group in the city to take part in a discussion here.

He also expressed solidarity with the students and called RSS and its affiliates as "anti-constitutional".

Speaking to media over the phone during a press conference organised by All India Students Federation and other organisations here, Kumar assured the students from Ranade Institute (Pune University's journalism college), Fergusson College and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) that he will go to any city where students' rights were being suppressed and will stand by them.

"I express my solidarity and support for students community who have been fighting in Pune," he said during his brief phone conversation with reporters here.

The situation in the country is very serious as the government is trying to snatch away the rights and freedom of students, he said.

"We have to get united against forces like RSS, ABVP and Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) to safeguard the democratic values and Constitution. ABVP, BJYM are the sections of RSS and are anti-Constitutional and against the judicial system, and trying to suppress students' voice in India," he said.

After the fracas at Fergusson College here during an ABVP-organised discussion on 'Truth of JNU', wherein a BJYM leader allegedly threatened the students of Ranade Institute that they would be thrashed if they invited Kumar, students from these two institutes and those from FTII came together and formed a joint forum to invite Kumar here.

Dates of Kumar's visit would be soon decided, local AISF members said.

(Reopens BOM 21)



Local AISF members said the JNUSU president will be visiting Pune, Kolhapur, Beed, Amravati and Aurangabad and may also visit drought-affected areas in Maharashtra.

Asked about the alleged threat given to the journalism students, Kumar said this was not new as RSS-affiliated outfits didn't let the people speak the truth.

"This fight is not of one student, or one college or one university, but of entire nation and students community has to come together to fight for their rights, education and employment," said Kumar, who is facing a sedition case and is out on bail.
Thousands of supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, who was hanged for killing liberal Punjab province governor Salman Taseer, held the Pakistani capital's high- security red zone under siege today and demanded that the Islamist assassin be declared a "martyr".

About 25,000 protesters yesterday, a month after Qadri was hanged for shooting Taseer, prayed for him in Rawalpindi, and then marched towards Islamabad's Red Zone, breaking barriers that had been erected.

Out of the 25,000, about 3,000 supporters of Qadri continued their sit in outside the Parliament House and other key government installations for a second day today.

Police and Rangers threw tear gas shells on the protesters yesterday in a bid to contain them. At least 42 security officials and 16 citizens were injured in the clashes which followed, Geo reported.

Police has detained several people for vandalising public property.

Meanwhile, mobile phone services in the capital have been blocked. The government has asked citizens to stay away from the area.

Protest leaders were making speeches on a makeshift stage.

The government yesterday called in the army to control the law and order situation in the capital after some protesters resorted to violence and allegedly damaged public property.

The media bore the brunt of protesters' fury as they attacked media persons, injuring some of them and damaging their equipment. The protesters claimed that the media was not covering the event in an objective manner.

The protesters are demanding that the government scrap any plans to amend the blasphemy laws, and execute all those convicted of blasphemy, including Asia Bibi, a female Christian blasphemy convict, the Express reported.

They have called on the government to declare Qadri a "martyr" and announce a public holiday in his name.

Qadri was hanged last month after which tens of thousands of his Islamist supporters chanting provocative slogans attended his funeral.

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 it.
Rajasthan government today said action would be taken against those found guilty in the case of illegal transfer ofleasedeedof a cooperative land to a private firm in 2011, which allegedly involves former urban development and housing minister Shanti Dhariwal and retired IAS officer G S Sandhu.

Replying to a question by independent MLA Hanuman Beniwal, Home Minister Gulab Chand Kataria informed the House that nine cases related to Jaipur Development Authority are pending with Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) and investigations in the cases are on.

"Those who are involved in the case, be it Shanti Dhariwal or G S Sandhu, action as per law will be taken if found guilty," he said.

Kataria said Dhariwal was called for questioning and ACB collected facts from him.

Sandhu was granted anticipatory bail by the Rajasthan High Court and after that he turned up before the ACB.

He claimed the single lease deed was issued against norms by the JDA.

The leasedeedwas issued by JDA in 2011 but was cancelled in 2013 after objection came from the company partner Manju onsingle deed.

The matter was later probed by ACB which arrested RAS officer Nishkam Diwakar, the company's owner Shailendra Garg and interrogated Shanti Dhariwal in October last year.
Claiming he had the numbers on his side, dislodged Chief Minister Harish Rawat today met Governor K K Paul along with the MLAs supporting him and sought his permission to prove his majority in the Uttarakhand Assembly, a day after President's rule was imposed in the state. MLAs who went along with a defiant Rawat to meet the Governor included 26 of the Congress, five of the Progressive Democratic Front(PDF) and one nominated member of the state Assembly. A letter claiming support of 34 MLAs was also handed over to the Governor.

Govind Singh Kunjwal, the Speaker of the state Assembly, which is now in suspended animation, did not turn up in keeping with Parliamentary traditions whereas PDF member Sarbat Karim Ansari was absent due to personal reasons. "Congress still enjoys a majority in the state Assembly and it should have been given an opportunity to prove this on the floor of the House," Congress MLA Indira Hridayesh toldreporters soon after meeting the Governor. "We have the support of 34 MLAs and we are in a majority. We have given this information to the Governor," she said.

Nine party rebels who had revolted against the Rawat government were disqualified by Speaker yesterday reducing the effective strength of the House to 61 from 70. Another party MLA Nav Prabhat said a memorandum was also handed to the Governor to counter BJP's allegations that the appropriation bill had not been passed by the state assembly. "The appropriation bill on the state's annual budget has been passed as per Parliamentary norms and there is no financial emergency in the state as alleged by the BJP," Prabhat told reporters quoting the memorandum. Making references to books written by constitutional experts, he said as per parliamentary norms a debate on the appropriation bill cannot be allowed in the House after demands for grants of different departments had been passed and the Speaker's decision with regard to the legislation is final.

Hours after president's rule was imposed in Uttarakhand on Sunday, Rawat had gone to call on Governor K K Paul late in the night to request him to grant him a chance to prove his majority in the state Assembly claiming he had the numbers. Though Rawat could not meet the Governor who had retired for the day, he left a letter addressed to Paul in which he claimed that he still enjoyed the support of a majority of MLAs in the House.

"Hence, in view of the sentiments of the people of Uttarakhand it is imperative that I am granted the permission to prove my majority in the House in the interest of democracy," Rawat said in his letterreceived by the ADC to Governor Anuj Rathour.
Hours after President's rule was imposed in Uttarakhand, ousted Chief Minister Harish Rawat had tried to meet Governor K K Paul late Sunday night in a last-ditch attempt to request him for a chance to prove majority in the state Assembly, but failed to do so.

Since the Governor had retired for the day, Rawat left a letter addressed to him claiming he still enjoyed the support of a majority of MLAs in the 70-member House.

"On behalf of my party,even at this moment,I urge you to grant me the opportunity to prove my majority in the state Assembly. I enjoy full majority and am afraid there can be ill-intentioned efforts to turn it into a minority," Rawat said in the letter received by Anuj Rathour, ADC to the Governor.

"Hence, in view of the sentiments of the people of it is imperative that I am granted the permission to prove my majority in the House in the interest of democracy," he wrote.

The letter was signed by Rawat and five others including party chief whip Indira Hridayesh and MLA Hemesh Kharkwal.
As a part of its security arrangement for Jangalmahal in poll-bound West Bengal, Election Commission has sent a requisition for three helicopters to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for aerial surveillance in the sprawling forest area.

"We (The Commission) are having security arrangements for Jangalmahal area and for that we have sent a requisition to the MHA for three helicopters ... We are yet to get a confirmation from them though they (the ministry) has briefly committed for it," Additional Chief Electoral Officer Dibyendu Sarkar said today.

"We have briefed the ministry the reason behind the need of the helicopters and they will be used to oversee the security arrangements in Jangalmahal," Sarkar added.

On the number of central forces required in Jangalmahal, which was earlier considered a hotbed of Maoist activities, the election officer said the calculation was still on and the picture would be clear within a few days.

He said there was a high-level video-conference on inter-border security between West Bengal and Assam and the state's "critical borders" with Jharkhand, Bihar and Odisha.

"There was a discussion on where the naka points were erected and which other places it was required in. There were talks on the inter-border movements of miscreants and possible movements of weapons from one state to another," Sarkar said.

Bengal chief secretary, home secretary, chief electoral officer, excise commissioner, senior MHA and state police officers participated in the video conference, he said.

Top officers from Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand also attended the video-conference.

Talking about the number of EVMs to be used in the six-phase polls in the state, Sarkar said 89342 machines have been readied after first randomization as the EC has kept 115 per cent of them ready for the polls in the state.

"We keep 15 per cent in reserve. Apart for this we also require a few for training and awareness building purposes. We have also kept another few ready. Altogether we now have 99523 EVMs," he said.

Sarkar said the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) would be used in 22 Assembly constituencies.

VVPAT would be used in one constituency of every district and in two constituencies - Jadavpur and Behala West of South 24 Parganas, he added.
Russia will be sending troops and equipment later this week to demine the archaeological site in the ancient Syrian town of Palmyra which was recaptured from Islamic State fighters last week.

Russian agencies today quoted Gen Valery Gerasimov, chief of the General Staff, as saying that Russia will be sending troops, robots and demining equipment in the next few days.

The recapture of Palmyra by Syrian troops under the cover of Russian airstrikes was an important victory over IS extremists who waged a 10-month reign of terror there.

It was the first major defeat for the group since an international agreement to battle terrorism in the fractured nation took effect last year.

President Vladimir Putin earlier this month ordered the bulk of Russian forces in Syria to withdraw.
Russian Helicopters, part of State Corporation Rostec, plans to sign the first long-term maintenance agreement with India to provide after-sales service for Mi-17 helicopters.

"We have conducted negotiations with our Indian partners and we plan to sign a contract that will lay the foundation for collaboration between Russian Helicopters and India in an entirely new way," said Igor Chechikov, Russian Helicopter's deputy CEO.

"The company is shifting from offering separate services to providing comprehensive after-sales support," he said in a statement emailed to media.

"The possibility of such collaboration is now being discussed with the Air Force, Navy and border patrol troops of India," Chechikov said at Defexpo India 2016.

"For us, it will be the first long-term service contract with India," he said on the agreement for the Mi-17 transport helicopters to be signed with India's Ministry of Defence.

"Set prices and delivery dates for supplying equipment needed to repair our helicopters are among the advantages of this type of contract. It will boost Russian-made helicopters' after-sales system to a new level," he said.

According to the preliminary agreement, Russian Helicopters will provide repairs to Mi-17 type helicopters and will supply spare parts for them throughout the entire life cycle of the rotorcraft.

Repairs of helicopters operated in India will be performed by enterprises belonging to Russian Helicopters holding company.

The contract life cycle is expected to be three years, the release said.

Its further extension, as well as an expansion of helicopter models covered by the after-sales support system, are also being considered.

Russian Helicopters specialists have submitted an itemised list to the Indian Air Force that specifies 4,000 items - equipment needed to provide maintenance and extensive helicopter repairs.

Before the end of 2016, the list will grow up to 6,000 items to be further supplemented and updated in future.

Russian Helicopters is one of the global leaders in helicopter production and the only helicopter design and production powerhouse in Russia.
Sweden-headquartered Saab and Tata Power SED have collaborated to develop and manufacture self-protection systems for land-based platforms in India during the ongoing Defence Expo in Goa.

The systems are meant for the Indian market and for export to Saab's global market, the two companies issued a joint statement.

"The process of transfer of technology for production of initial orders for Saab's global customers has already commenced at Tata Power SED's facility in Bangalore.

"Tata Power SED will eventually manufacture a large part of the system in India and also do final assembly," the statement said.

"Tata power SED's strengths in Defence Electronics manufacturing are a perfect complement to Saab's expertise in electronic warfare systems, sensors and self protection systems for all domains," CMD of Saab India Technologies said Jan Widerstrom said.

CEO of Tata Power SED Rahul Chaudhry said, the company is excited to be a part of this synergetic collaboration that has already been kicked off.

"Given the long-term potential for self protection systems for combat vehicles, both in India and abroad, we see this collaboration with Saab as an important milestone in boosting India's capabilities in building defence systems," he said.
Rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa have released nine Saudis in exchange for 109 Yemenis, the Riyadh-led coalition fighting them said today, in the latest sign of tensions easing before peace talks.

"Nine Saudi prisoners have been recovered and 109 Yemenis who were arrested in the military operations zone" near the border have been handed over, the coalition said in a statement.

It did not specify whether the prisoners were combatants or civilians.

The swap follows another exchange of one Saudi soldier for seven Yemenis earlier this month amid tribal mediation that has helped reduce violence along the Saudi-Yemeni border.

Efforts have been building to bring an end to the devastating conflict in Yemen, a year after the Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes against the Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels.

UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed announced last week that the combatants have agreed to a cessation of hostilities from midnight on April 10, followed by talks in Kuwait on April 18.

Previous negotiations have failed and earlier ceasefires were not respected, but analysts say a more conducive atmosphere prevails ahead of the new round of talks.

Andreas Krieg of the Department of Defence Studies at King's College London said the prisoner swap is "a sign of Saudi goodwill" before the Kuwait negotiations.

It signals to the Huthis that Riyadh and its allies are "willing to make compromises to bring these talks to a successful end," said Krieg, who also teaches at the Qatari Armed Forces Staff College.

Adam Baron, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said "there is widespread hope that the upcoming Kuwait talks will function as a step in the right direction."



The coalition said today that border areas remained relatively calm.

It said it hoped to see the lull "spread to combat zones in order to facilitate the sending of humanitarian aid to all of Yemen's territory" and to support UN efforts to reach a political settlement.

In a rare incident that broke the calm, the Saudi Civil Defence agency said yesterday that eight people, including four children, had been wounded by fire from Yemen.

More than 90 people have been killed on the Saudi side of the frontier by shelling and in skirmishes over the past year.

The Huthis seized Sanaa in September 2014 then advanced south, raising fears in Riyadh that the rebels would extend the influence of Shiite Iran in the kingdom's southern neighbour.

Local forces backed by coalition ground troops have since pushed the Huthis out of five southern provinces and second city Aden, where President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has established a temporary capital.
The Supreme Court today asked the Centre to file before it the report of a committee which was constituted earlier to look into the aspects of personal laws relating to marriage, divorce and custody prevalent in various religious minorities, including Muslims.

A bench comprising Chief justice T S Thakur and Justice U U Lalit asked Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, to submit the report within six weeks in the court.

The bench also asked the Ministry of Minority Affairs to file its response to the petition filed by one Shayara Bano challenging the constitutionality of Muslim practices of polygamy, triple talaq (talaq-e-bidat) and nikah halala.

Talaq-e-bidat is a Muslim man divorcing his wife by pronouncing more than one talaq in a single tuhr (the period between two menstruations), or in a tuhr after coitus, or pronouncing an irrevocable instantaneous divorce at one go (unilateral triple-talaq).

Meanwhile, the bench directed the apex court registry to make available within six weeks the copy of judicial records of a petition on the issue which was taken note of as a separate petition by it.

The Supreme Court had earlier this month sought response of the Centre on Bano's plea challenging constitutionality of Section 2 of the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act, 1937 in so far as it seeks to recognise and validate polygamy, triple talaq and nikah halala, and had tagged the matter with a similar suo motu petition.

Bano has said she was subjected to cruelty and dowry



demands from her husband and in-laws and was administered drugs that "that caused her memory to fade, kept her unconscious" and made her "critically ill" at which point her husband divorced her by triple talaq.

The petitioner has also challenged the Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939, saying that it fails to provide Indian Muslim women with protection from bigamy.

Bano has stated in her petition that the issue of gender discrimination against Muslim women under Muslim personal laws, specifically the lack of safeguards against arbitrary divorce and second marriage by a Muslim husband during currency of first marriage notwithstanding the guarantees of the Constitution, needs to be examined by the Supreme Court.

"Muslim women have their hands tied while the guillotine of divorce dangles, perpetually ready to drop at the whims of their husbands who enjoy undisputed power. Such discrimination and inequality hoarsely expressed in the form of unilateral triple-talaq is abominable when seen in light of progressive times of the 21st century.

"Further, once a woman has been divorced, her husband is not permitted take her back as his wife even if he had pronounced talaq under influence of any intoxicant, unless the woman undergoes nikah halala which involves her marriage with another man who subsequently divorces her so that her previous husband can re-marry her," her plea has said.
Equities tanked massively today amid profit-booking in expectations of volatility on derivatives expiry while banks came under selling pressure ahead of RBI's credit policy as the market benchmark Sensex logged biggest single-day fall in five weeks to slip below 25,000-mark.

The 50-share Nifty also cracked below the 7,700-mark with a plunge of over 101 points.

After four straight session of gains and a long break, the trading opened with a gap-up note amid higher Asian cues.

Absence of definite cues as most European markets remained closed for an extended Easter Holiday against the background of some members of the US Federal Reserve taking a hawkish tone, affected sentiment.

"On a surprising note the market is underperforming in spite of a strong case for rate cut which should have provided support on the downside," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit BNP Paribas.

Buyers looked hesitant, given the long list of event risks lined up in the next fortnight, added Geojit BNP Paribas's Anand James.

The 30-share Sensex opened higher at 25,417.11 and hovered between 25,432.94 and 24,895.49 before ending at 24,966.40, showing a fall of 371.16 points or 1.46 per cent. The index gained 660.19 points in the previous four sessions.

Exchanges had remained closed on Thursday and Friday for 'Holi' and 'Good Friday', respectively.

The unveiling of the much-awaited Defence Procurement Policy by Union Minister Manohar Parrikar was sidelined as across-the-board profit-booking was witnessed led by metals, healthcare, realty, consumer durables, telecom, capital goods and industrials sectors.

In stock specific action, Tata Steel bore the brunt by tumbling 5.23 per cent to Rs 300.05, followed by SBI by 4.24 per cent to Rs 188.45 and Sun Pharma by 4.20 per cent to Rs 811.05.

Natco Pharma nosedived nearly 13 per cent after the firm received 483 observations from the USFDA after inspection of its two manufacturing facilities.

Lloyd Electric and Engineering ended with 2.5 per cent gains after the company announced the acquisition of Noske-Kaeser's rail and vehicles business in select markets for 2.3 million euros.

Indices in China, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan fell by 0.06 per cent to 0.73 per cent while Japan rose by 0.77 per cent. Hong Kong market was closed today.

Back home, in broader markets, mid-cap fell by 1.36 per



cent, while small-cap index closed lower by 1.65 per cent.

Of the 30-share Sensex pack, 17 scrips ended lower while three gained.

Major losers were Tata Steel (5.23 pc), SBI (4.24 pc), Sun Pharma (4.20 pc), ICICI Bank (3.86 pc), Tata Motors (3.63 pc), Axis Bank (3.37 pc), BHEl (2.92 pc), L&T (2.89 pc), Maruti (2.61 pc), Bharti Airtel (2.34 pc), HDFC (1.92 pc), Lupin (1.92 pc), Cipla (1.51 pc) and Coal India (1.36 pc).

However, NTPC rose by 1.06 per cent followed by GAIL 0.42 per cent and Bajaj Auto 0.04 per cent.

Among BSE sectoral and industry indices, losers were realty 4.35 per cent, metal (3.92 pc), consumer durables (3.48 pc), telecom (2.21 pc), capital goods (2.08 pc), industrials (2.03 pc), healthcare (1.95 pc) and bankex (1.92 pc).

The market breadth remained negative as 1,942 shares ended lower, 743 closed higher while 167 ruled steady.

The total turnover fell to Rs 2,741.47 crore from Rs 3,105.87 crore on last Wednesday.
South Korean activists today launched tens of thousands of anti-Pyongyang leaflets into North Korea for the second time in three days, amid heightened military tensions on the divided peninsula.

The conservative activists, including many North Korean defectors, used gas-filled balloons to float 100,000 leaflets criticising North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the heavily militarised border.

Some carried slogans reading, "Launch a merciless blow of fire to the nuclear maniac Kim Jong-un!" or "We want Kim Jong-un's head!"



The same group, called Fighters for Free North Korea, launched 50,000 leaflets on Saturday to mark the anniversary of the sinking of a South Korean warship in 2010.

Seoul blamed a North Korean submarine for the sinking, although Pyongyang has always denied any involvement.

"We plan to launch 10 million leaflets over the next three months, condemning the North's latest atomic test and urging the North to abandon the nuclear programme," the group said on its website.

The leafleting exercise has long angered Pyongyang, which has often threatened military retaliation against the activists.

In October 2014, North Korean frontier guards attempted to shoot down a set of balloons, sparking a brief exchange of fire across the border.

Tensions on the Korean peninsula have been running particularly high since the South kicked off annual joint army drills with the United States this month.

The North has issued a series of threats in recent weeks, including warnings of nuclear attacks against Seoul and Washington.

Seoul and Washington made the already large-scale joint drills bigger than ever this year in response to the North's nuclear test in January and long-range rocket launch a month later.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today cancelled his visit to Britain following the horrific Easter bombing at a popular park in Lahore that left over 70 people dead.

Sharif was scheduled to leave for Britain today but he cancelled his trip after the blast last evening at Gulshan-e- Iqbal Park in Lahore where Christians were celebrating Easter, a spokesman at the prime minister's secretariat said.

Sharif was to meet British prime minister David Cameron and then fly to the US for the Nuclear Security Summit 2016.

"He will now travel directly to the US after a couple of days," the spokesman was quoted as saying by The International.

He added that the premier held detailed several hours-long deliberations at a high-level meeting here which reviewed security situation in Lahore, comparatively a peaceful city in an otherwise violence-wracked country.

In the wake of the attack, the Punjab government had declared an emergency in Lahore and announced three days of mourning.

The brutal attack killed over 70 people and was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehreek -i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which released a statement saying it targeted the Christian community on the occasion of Easter and warned of more such attacks.

Jamaatul Ahrar had also claimed last year's twin suicide bombings at churches in Lahore's Youhanabad area, which killed at least 15 people and sparked violent protests across the city.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today cancelled his upcoming visit to the United States where he was scheduled to attend the Nuclear Security Summit later this week in the backdrop of the deadly terror attack in Lahore.

Sharif was due to visit Washington to participate in the fourth Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) on March 31 hosted by US President Barack Obama.

"Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has cancelled his upcoming visit to the United States," Radio Pakistan tweeted minutes before Sharif's address to the nation.

At least 72 people, including 29 children, were killed and 233 were injured in a blast near Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Lahore on Easter Sunday.

A faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaatul Ahrar, claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack, saying Christians were their target.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs will now represent the premier at the crucial global event, Express reported.

According to media reports, Sharif and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were likely to meet on the sidelines of the Summit.

Earlier in the day, Sharif cancelled his trip to UK, citing the the terror attack in Lahore.

(Reopens FGN 39)



Sharif's surgery will be conducted at London's The



Princess Grace Hospital, which is considered one of the best-equipped multi-disciplinary hospital in the UK capital.

Sharif, who is in London, has been facing pressure from Opposition political parties at home to conduct a thorough investigation into the Panama Papers leaked documents - that reveal that members of his family own undeclared offshore wealth and expensive property in London.

Some leaders in Pakistan have demanded Sharif to step down amid the scandal.

The Opposition has been demanding Sharif face parliament and respond to various questions regarding how his family transferred money from Pakistan to set up businesses abroad.

According to the leaked documents, Sharif's children owned at least three offshore holding companies registered in the British Virgin Islands.

Sharif and his family have denied any wrongdoing.
Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif today vowed to root out the menace of terrorism from the country after more than 70 people were killed in the deadly Taliban suicide bombing in Lahore.

"I am here today to reiterate our national resolve to fight the menace of terrorism till it is rooted out from our society," said Sharif in his address to the nation.

He said Pakistan was conscious of the "every drop of blood of our victims" and those responsible for it will be taken to task.

Sharif said that his government will continue the great mission of transforming Pakistan into a cradle of peace, progress and prosperity.

At least 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed when a suicide bomber blew himself up atthe crowded Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park of Allama Iqbal in Lahore where Christians were celebrating Easter.

Sharif said Islam is a religion of peace which had declared that murder of a single human being is like killing the entire mankind.

The Prime Minister said he has given clear instructions to concerned institutions to bring terrorists and their facilitators to book wherever they are.
India is one of the fastest growing pre-schooler markets for the Singapore-based Modern Montessori International Group (MMI) owned by a leading Indian-origin businessman here.

"We are expanding fast in India. Our fastest mode of expansion in India is through franchising," MMI chairman and chief executive officer Dr T Chandroo said.

"Almost every month we have two new franchises who sign with us," he said after launching his biography "Reach The Top with Big Dreams" at the Singapore Management University yesterday.

"Franchise is the fastest mode of entry into the Indian market," said Chandroo who brought the UK-origin MMI brand of pre-schooling to Singapore 25 years ago.

MMI has 20 centres in India out of the 100, it currently runs across three continents - Asia, Europe and Africa, said Chandroo, one of the leading Indian-origin businessmen here.

Thirty of these centres are in Singapore, making it one of the most popular options for building basic foundation of pre-schoolers.

"Going forward, we plan to expand in emerging markets, starting with Vietnam where our first pre-school is being establish," said Dr Chandroo who owns the MMI global business now, having acquired the UK-business 10 years ago.

He is also planning to expand MMI brand pre-schooling to Cambodia, Myanmar and the Middle East region.

Itsglobal network currently includes pre-schools in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt.
A 27-year-old Singaporean today went on trial for uploading seditious posts targeting foreigners including Indians to "maliciously exploit racial and xenophobic faultlines".

Yang Kaiheng faces seven counts under the Sedition Act by posting on The Real Singapore (TRS) website, a socio-political website.

He is accused of using the website to "maliciously exploit racial and xenophobic faultlines" via seven seditious posts, which targeted foreigners from the Philippines, India and China, Channel Asia reported.

Yang's eight-week pregnant wife Ai Takagi was sentenced to 10 months' jail term last Wednesday after pleading guilty to four counts of sedition.

An Australian citizen of Japanese origin, Takagi, 23, was the editor of TRS.

The prosecution charged that the pair's anti-foreigner posts aimed to stir controversy and secure a larger internet following, which translated into higher advertising revenue for Yang and Takagi.

The prosecution's first witness was Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Roy Lim who investigated the couple after a police report was made against the website.

After his arrest, Yang admitted to "some involvement" in setting up TRS, including handling the blog's Facebook page and advertising on the website, Lim said.

Yang's lawyer Choo Zheng Xi said that while Takagi had "authored, uploaded and edited" the seditious posts, Yang had nothing to do with it.

Instead, Yang's involvement in TRS was "fleeting and ad-hoc", he said.

The prosecution said it will aim to show that Yang's involvement was in fact "continued, sustained and intimate", and that the website was jointly run by Yang and Takagi.

Deputy Public Prosecutor G Kannan previously accused Yang of being "patently motivated by commercial greed", pointing to financial documents showing TRS earned Australian dollars 474,594 (SGD 492,500) between December 2013 and April 2015.

The prosecution is expected to call at least five more witnesses to the stand and Takagi is expected to testify in her husband's defence.

If found guilty, Yang could be jailed for up to three years and fined up to SGD 5,000.
Delhi police today said they will approach the Mumbai police to do a background check on a Delhi-based pub owner whose wife was found dead at their residence here, as he was allegedly involved in a rape case in Mumbai three years ago.

Delhi police will seek the help of their counterparts in Mumbai for a background check on Nitin Chawla (38), arrested under charges of domestic violence and dowry deaths after his 25-year-old wife hanged herself at their residence in South Delhi's Defence Colony, leaving behind a purported suicide note.

"The police learnt that Chawla was involved in a rape case reported in Mumbai around 3 years ago. He was granted bail by a local court there in 2014. This information is to be verified for which we will write to Mumbai police tomorrow," a police officer said.

The complainant, in the rape case, had alleged that she was sexually assaulted over a period of time by Chawla on the pretext of marriage. She also alleged that the accused forged her signature in her back accounts.

All these claims need to be verified, the officer said.

Chawla, a stakeholder in a few popular Delhi nightclubs and pubs was arrested after his wife, Priyanka, owner of an event management company, was found dead at their residence two days ago.

The victim's family members have alleged that her husband used to abuse her and took a huge amount as dowry.

The content of the two-page suicide note, recovered from the house and believed to be written in Priyanka's hand, also matched the allegations, police said.

Following Chawla's arrest, the police are now looking into the role of his family members in connection with the case.

Chawla had divorced his first wife, with whom he has a son (10) and a daughter (8), in December last year, police said.
The startup action plan has generated a "buzz" among budding entrepreneurs and several of them have been able to successfully attract funds from angel and other investors, Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said.

"A lot of startups are approaching us (after the announcement of the action plan)...There is a lot of interest and it has generated a buzz among the startups," Sitharaman told PTI.

She said several of them have even called up to say that they have found angel and other investors.

The incentives announced in the action plan and the Budget are all yielding results, the minister added.

The minister also said that ministries including Science and Technology and Human Resource Development are working together to set up incubators to help budding entrepreneurs.

IIT Madras has taken the lead and the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, too is working on this, she added.

"ITIs are being given the skills to set up for themselves and have the incubators to start certifying people for start ups," the minister said.

In the Budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced a slew of initiatives, including 100 per cent tax exemption for three out of five years for startups set up during April 2016 to March 2019 aimed at facilitating growth for these new businesses.

Similarly to promote innovation, a special patent regime has been proposed with a 10 per cent rate of tax on income from worldwide exploitation of patents developed and registered in India.

Under the 'Start Up India Action Plan', the government announced incentives including tax holiday and Inspector Raj-free regime besides capital gains tax exemption and Rs 10,000 crore corpus to fund them.
Public sector lender Syndicate Bank will raise over Rs 217 crore by allotting preferential shares to LIC to shore up capital to meet Basel III norms.

"The shareholders of the bank in the extraordinary general meeting approved the issue of 4,13,12,457 equity shares of face value of Rs 10 each for cash at Rs 52.51 aggregating to Rs 216.94 crore to LIC of India on preferential basis", it said in a BSE filing.

In order to comply with Basel III requirements relating to capital adequacy, at the request of the bank, LIC of India has agreed to infuse capital funds to the tune of Rs 216.94 crore by way of preferential allotment of equity in its favour, Syndicate Bank said.

Basel norms basically provide risk templates for banks and amount of capital it is required to keep against lending.

Basel III capital regulation has been implemented from April 1, 2013 in India in phases and it will be fully implemented by March 31, 2019.
Syria's antiquities chief said today that his department would need five years to restore the ancient ruins of Palmyra damaged by the Islamic State jihadist group.

"If we have UNESCO's approval, we will need five years to restore the structures damaged or destroyed by IS," Maamoun Abdulkarim told AFP.

"We have the qualified staff, the knowledge and the research. With UNESCO's approval, we can start the work in a year's time."



Abdulkarim's remarks came after the Russian-backed Syrian army ousted IS from Palmyra yesterday in the climax of a three-week offensive.

"Eighty per cent of the ruins are in good shape," he said.

"My expert colleagues arrive today in Palmyra. I have asked them to assess the stones and the old city. They are taking pictures of the damage and documenting everything, and then the restoration can begin."



IS overran Palmyra in May last year, sparking global concern for the city's spectacular ancient ruins.

The jihadists used Palmyra's ancient amphitheatre as a venue for public executions and also murdered the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief, Khaled al-Assaad.

They also destroyed the shrine of Baal Shamin.

In September, they demolished the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel, a gem of Classical architecture, and a month later blew up the Arch of Triumph, dating from around 200 AD.

They then destroyed a dozen of the city's best preserved tower tombs.
Pakistani Taliban today said the horrific suicide bombing at a popular park here was targeted at Christians celebrating Easter, even as the death toll in the massacre rose to 72 including 29 children.

"Three more people today succumbed to their injuries raising the death toll to 72," Punjab Emergency Services Rescue team spokesperson Deeba Shahnaz said.

She said the condition of 26 out of the over 300 injured was very critical. Most of the injured are children.

At least 29 children and eight women are among the dead, according to the data released by different city hospitals. At least 20 Christians are also among the dead.

A large number of people were present atthe crowded Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park of Allama Iqbal Townwhen a powerful blast took place last evening.

A large number of Christian families were present in the park due to Easter Sunday.

The brutal attack by a suicide bomber -- believed to be in his 20s -- was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

"It was targeted at Christians celebrating Easter," Ehsanullah Ehsan, a spokesman for the group, said.

"We have carried out this attack to target the Christians who were celebrating Easter. Also this is a message to the Pakistani Prime Minister that we have arrived in Punjab," he said.

The Punjab government, however, denied Jamaatul Ahrar's claim that the bombing was aimed exclusively at Christians.

"Christians were not the specific target in the blast. It was not the park meant for Christians only. The targets were Pakistanis," said Lahore District Coordination Officer retired Captain Muhammad Usman.

"It was a suicide attack. A suicide bomber blew himself inside the park near the children play area," Deputy Inspector General Lahore Police Dr Haider Asharaf said.

"Some 10 to 15 kilogramme explosive might have been used in the blast," he said.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif this morning visited Jinnah Hospital and inquired about the health of the injured patients.

"Why terrorists are killing us," an injured child asked the Premier from his hospital bed.

The Prime Minister directed the health authorities to ensure best treatment for the injured. He vowed that the perpetrators of the Lahore attack would not escape punishment.

A family of a child at the Jinnah Hospital protested Sharif's visit.

"Police did not allow our relatives to enter the hospital because the Prime Minister was visiting it. If the rulers cannot provide security to their citizens they at least should not create problems for them in the name of security," said Rabia Bibi, who lost her two children in the bombing and third suffered injuries.
Clearing the way for the entry of telecom service retailers, inter-ministerial panel Telecom Commission today approved long-pending proposal on virtual network operators, which will offer voice and data services under their own brands without owning network or spectrum.

"The Commission has approved a Trai's recommendation on Virtual Network Operator after including clarification it provided. It will need Telecom Minister's approval. A new licence will be issued UL VNO for this. It should be implemented within few weeks," an official source said.

"VNO will be able to offer all telecom services provided by a telecom operator with which it has partnered. It can sell services of more than one operator," the source said.

A VNO leases bandwidth from various telecom operators to provide voice and data services to customers.

VNOs would offer all telecom services permitted under Unified Licences -- permits that were issued in 2013. These players are expected to reduce marketing and sales costs of telecom companies struggling in the sector, besides sharing some operational expenses, too.

"VNO will be able to invest in setting up mobile towers and other elements in network required for providing services. However, it will not be able to sign deal directly to interconnect infrastructure laid by it with other telecom operator," the source said.

These players may also offer some relief to telecom PSUs, BSNL and MTNL, which have already adopted a revenue-sharing model focusing on reducing capital expenditure. However, these companies will need to change their old licence to Unified Licence.

"VNO will be able to integrate service and offer it to customer as it wants. There will be no limit on integration and offering of services from licence or government that will be available shortly. VNO on its own will be free to use technology required for offering various services," the source said.

In case a VNO has partnered with multiple service providers, then it can offer voice call service of one and data service of other player.

The Commission discussed Trai recommendations on spectrum pricing for the next auction and asked for more clarification on base price calculated by the regulator, quantum of spectrum to be sold in 700 Mhz band, spectrum usage charges, etc.

The auction is expected to be held in mid-July.

"Telecom Commission expects Trai to reply in 15 days after which the commission will meet again and take call on it," the source said.

The commission also approved a provision to interconnect next generation networks based on Internet-based infrastructure with existing telecom network based on old technologies.

The panel will share its view with the DoT which will then seek Cabinet approval to go ahead with auction.
Three persons were arrested today for allegedly molesting and torturing a Delhi-based model after she refused sexual favours sought by them for launching her in films earlier this month, police said.

The 24-year-old model had lodged a complaint against the trio in Kotla Mubarakpur police station in Delhi on March 23. The case was then transferred here as the alleged incident had taken place in jurisdiction of the local police.

"We arrested Rohit Bhandari (35), Harish Shaha (25) and Tapendra Sahi (23) under relevant sections of IPC whereas one more suspect, Ramesh Thakula is currently at large," said police.

According to police, Bhandari had befriended the complainant through social networking site and promised to offer her good roles in films. The duo had even met in Goa.

"Bhandari then called her to Pune on March 10, saying that she had to appear for an audition and introduced her to other three suspects," said a police officer who is investigating the case.

He said they took good care of the woman for first two days.

"However, after that they allegedly sought sexual favours from the model by promising good role in films. However, when the complainant refused, she was molested, stripped and given cigarette burns," the officer said.

The complainant managed to go back to Delhi and lodged a case with Kotla Mubarakpur police station on March 23 who in turn registered "Zero FIR" (which allows woman to file an FIR at any police station and the complaint is required to be registered by police on the basis of her plaint verbatim.)



The trio will will be produced in court tomorrow.

(Reopens BES 58)



Police added that the suspects have been charged for



attempt to rape, molestation and physical assault.
A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused her of ruining Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today said Trinamool Congress had ushered in a new era of development in the state which was languishing during the previous Left regime.

She also charged the Modi government of not doing enough for the state.

"Neither the 34-year-old Left regime nor the two-year-old BJP government at the Centre did anything for the development of Bengal," Banerjee said at an election meeting at Jaipur in Purulia district.

"We have changed the picture of Bengal and have placed Bengal on the global map," Banerjee said.

"During the Left Front rule, people were in panic in the entire Jangalmahal (Maoist affected area) which had witnessed daily killings and bloodshed. Those days are gone and peace has returned. There has not been a single killing in Jangalmahal since 2011," she said.

Training guns at the central government, she said, "The centre is talking big. They have stopped funds for various programmes like ICDS. The state government is running those programmes."



Commenting on the Congress-left electoral pact, Banerjee said, "They are shameless. The Congress has forgotten how 55,000 Congress workers were killed in Bengal during the Left Front rule."



She reminded people that it was during the TMC rule that the scheme of providing rice at Rs 2/kg to poor families was started in the state.

The Prime Minister had yesterday said, "The 34-year-long Left regime had destroyed Bengal and the TMC in the last five years had broken the aspirations of the masses and their dreams. They (TMC) have ruined Bengal."



"No industry was coming up in Bengal and the only one flourishing was the bomb making industry," he added.
In a unique dance experiment, physically-challenged dancer from the UK, Dan Daw, teamed up dancer Mirjam Gurtner to portray a couple trapped in a loveless relationship.

The stunning duet by award-winning choreographer Javier de Frutos, takes it's inspiration from from Tennessee Williams' play "Camino Real" and Samuel Beckett's "Waiting for Godot".

The dance routine presented the story of a couple trapped in a stagnating relationship, unable to escape the domestic world.

"We have put to use Mexican wrestling masks and music underpinning the emotional power play of the dance," Dan said at the event, sponsored by the British Council.

The performance was staged before the students and the faculty of the Indian Institute of Cerebral Palsy.

Dan, who was part of Candoco for four years from 2010 until 2014, beautifully managed to synchronize with Mirijam.

"I think the crux of any performance is celebrating each-other's differences. I don't know if there is any language of disability."



Mirijam, a physically sound dancer, feels disabilty is a "social construct".

"Disability is not a description of personal characteristic. Disability is a social construct. Yes I believe in that."



Later, the two artists participated in a discussion on 'Disability in the Arts - a perspective Globally and Locally' moderated by Sujata Sen, Director East India, British Council.

Renowned danseuse Priti Patel also took part in the discussion.
The Uttar Pradesh government today hailed the special mention of the state as the "best film-friendly state" at the 63rd National Film Awards.

"UP CM's relentless efforts to promote UP's film industry lead to a special mention at the 63rd National Awards," a tweet by CM Office said.

The tweet noted that "63rd National Film Awards:Best film friendly state award-special mention to Uttar Pradesh and Kerala".

UP has taken a number of initiatives to provide a conducive and hassle-free environment for film shoots, including Bollywood and regional ones.
Uttar Pradesh has been taking several initiatives to ensure reliable power supply in rural areas, Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today said, noting that his state is the first to come up with a Mini-grid Policy.

"Uttar Pradesh has been taking several initiatives and steps to make sure that we provide reliable electricity in rural areas and I am proud that UP is the first state to come up with a Mini-grid Policy," the CM said.

He was speaking at the first UP Mini-Grid Conclave organised by Rockefeller Foundation here.

"UP government plans to continue its efforts in providing electricity in rural areas in the state to improve the quality of lives and uplift the economy...I welcome the Rockefeller Foundation's Smart Power for Rural Development Initiative to bring electricity to rural areas of Uttar Pradesh," he said.

The Rockefeller Foundation hosted this meeting as part of its Smart Power for Rural Development (SPRD) initiative that aims to deliver electricity and catalyse economic development among under served rural populations in 1,000 villages in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar by 2018.

Since the SPRD launch in April 2015, the initiative has 81 operational plants - 58 of which are in Hardoi, Kushinagar, Pratapgarh, Rai Bareli, Shravasthi, Balrampur and Sitapur districts.

Associate Vice President and Managing Director, Asia, The Rockefeller Foundation, Ashvin Dayal said: "We expect to see steady growth in the number of operating plants in Uttar Pradesh in 2016."



The UP Mini-Grid Conclave comes against the backdrop of the announcement of the UP Mini-grid Policy by the state government. The conclave was designed to showcase the potential of renewable mini-grid sector to drive inclusive economic development in the state.
Strongly condemning the terror attack in Lahore, the US today called for global unity against fighting extremism and offered assistance to Pakistan in investigation.

"The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms this terror attack at a children's park in Lahore yesterday. It's grotesque, and the fact that you have an extremist organisation targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest told reporters at his daily conference.

"The other thing, I think is indicative of what we talk about up here quite a bit is that even though this terror attack was targeted at Christians, a religious minority in Pakistan -- again, that is in and of itself grotesque, but the fact of the matter is that based on the names that we're seeing now, the majority of the victims were actually Muslims," he said.

"It demonstrates how important it is for the world to come together to fight this kind of extremism. That certainly has been the approach -- the approach that the president has taken in making sure that peace-loving people of all faiths and of all religions must come together to fight this kind of extremism, and that certainly is what our values and our sense of morality tells us," Earnest said.

"As a purely practical matter, that's also what's going to be required, and our success in fighting extremism around the globe is going to also depend on the ability of individual nations to fight extremism within their borders. And certainly, the government of Pakistan understands this today, just how critically important that is," Earnest said in response to a question.

The United States and Pakistan have an important counter-terrorism relationship, he said, adding that the Obama Administration certainly values the kind of cooperation that it has received from them.

"In this instance, the response and the investigation will be conducted by the Pakistani government and if they request assistance from the United States, it will be provided," he said.

State Department Spokesman John Kirby said, "There is no doubt that Pakistan continues to be under threat from terrorists inside their own country, and we've talked about this before -- that innocent Pakistanis -- and we saw it again this weekend -- continue to suffer at the hands of terrorists inside Pakistan.

He said US is committed to help Pakistan deal with the



threat of terrorism.

"...Nothing has changed about our commitment to do what we can to help them deal with this threat, because it isn't not just a Pakistani threat. It's a regional threat, it's a global threat in many ways," he said in response to a question.

"We stand by the people of Pakistan right now, and we also stand by our commitment to assist Pakistan going forward," Kirby said.

Given the actions taken against terrorist groups in the last one year, Kirby said these groups are under pressure and they are looking for ways to lash out.

"And suicide bombings and these kinds of dramatic terrorist attacks are ways to do that, doesn't mean, and I don't want to indicate that it means that we think the threat's passed or that, you know, that they're not still a dangerous group," Kirby said.

"Either TTP (Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan) in this case, or Daesh (ISIS) as we were talking about in respect to Brussels. They are still dangerous. We still have to take the threat very seriously," he said.
The United States will provide an additional USD 20 million in aid for refugees in Europe, a senior US official said today.

Heather Higginbottom, US deputy secretary of state for management and resources, said this brings Washington's total commitment to Europe's migration crisis to USD 43.6 million since last year.

Most of the funds -- USD 17.5 million -- will be given to the UN refugee agency, Higginbottom said during a visit to Lesbos, the island that has experienced most of the refugee arrivals registered in Greece since 2015, where there are over 2000 refugees and migrants according to the Greek government.

The rest of the funds will be shared out between the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the UN population fund, she said.

Dozens of migrants awaiting repatriation from Greece held a protest today at the registration hotspot of Moria prior to the US official's visit.

Standing behind wire fencing and under sizeable police guard, the migrants shouted "Freedom" and "Where are human rights?".

"Syrians and Iraqis are angry, they are saying that they did not come all this way to be deported," said Nolan Hussein, a 20-year-old from Pakistan.

"They have no information, only a piece of paper saying they are under detention," said Hussein, adding that owing to overcrowding at the camp, he shares a room with nine people.

Higginbottom was also in Greece for a closer look at the implementation of a March 18 deal between the European Union and Turkey to limit migration flows to the continent.

Arrivals fell this week, and Greek authorities have used the relative calm to put in place logistics to send people back to Turkey, including the deployment of 4,000 security personnel and asylum experts.

All new arrivals in Greece are being taken to registration centres set up on five Aegean islands. Those seeking asylum will stay there while their applications are considered by Greek and European officials.

Greece's police minister Nikos Toskas denied Monday that there were 50,000 people "trapped" in the country due to the closure of Balkan borders further north.
The US State Department has confirmed the deaths of two more Americans in the Brussels suicide attacks, bringing the total number to four.

"We can confirm the deaths of two additional US citizens in Brussels, and we express our deepest condolences to their loved ones," a State Department official said.

The department had reported on Friday that two Americans were killed and that additional US citizens were missing.

"We have no further information to share out of respect for the families during this difficult time," the official said yesterday.

An American couple that had been reported missing, Justin and Stephanie Shults, were confirmed dead by an employer and family on Saturday. It was unclear whether they were among the four reported dead by the State Department.

Tuesday's attacks on the Brussels airport and metro system, claimed by the Islamic State group, killed 31 people and wounded 340.

The State Department official said the US embassy in Brussels was providing consular assistance.
The United States today welcomed the victory of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad's Russian-backed forces over the Islamic State group in the historic city of Palmyra, despite concern over his brutal record.

"We do think that it's a good thing that Daesh no longer controls it," State Department spokesman John Kirby said, using his department's preferred term for the jihadist group.

"That said, we're also mindful, of course, that the best hope 0for Syria and the Syrian people is not an expansion of Bashar al-Assad's ability to tyrannize the Syrian people."



Backed by Russia, Syrian government and allied fighters overran Palmyra yesterday after nearly 10 months in which the Islamic State group held sway in the city.

Washington is leading its own coalition campaign against the IS group, but has also accused Assad of fomenting chaos by provoking civil war in Syria.

Russia, in contrast, has sent warplanes and advisers to assist Assad's battle against both the armed opposition and extremists such as the IS group.

In the case of Palmyra, however, Kirby welcomed the battle as a setback for a common foe.

"The short answer is yes, we think it's a good thing," Kirby said, speaking for Secretary of State John Kerry, who met Russian leaders in Moscow last week.

"I wasn't aware that there was confusion before, but there was no confusion on the secretary's part. In his mind, this was a good thing.

"We can't forget what Daesh did in this place; destroying our common heritage -- human history -- beheading a renowned archeologist who was responsible for maintaining those sites.
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) and Asian Development Bank today signed a pact for providing Rs 5,681 crore (USD 848 million) to develop solar parks across India, as part of clean energy infrastructure in the country.

The agreement was signed by Jonathan Addleton, Mission Director, USAID for India and M Teresa Kho, Country Director, India Resident Mission, Asian Development Bank (ADB).

"Through the agreement, USAID will align the technical resources of two of its programs to support ADB's investments in the development of solar parks and renewable energy transmission infrastructure in states at the forefront of India's efforts to promote clean energy", the US Embassy said in a press statement.

The collaboration will initially focus on the state of Rajasthan, it said.

The cooperation will design and develop public private partnership models as well as study options for managing grid reliability.

In particular, USAID technical activities will help place investments of Rs 2,331 crore by ADB for transmission infrastructure for renewable energy deployment in western Rajasthan.

USAID will also work with ADB across India with an additional Rs 3,350 crore (USD 500 million) of investment in the design and development of solar parks.

Under the terms of the MoU, the USAID will align components of their technical assistance with ADB's current and planned investments in renewable energy.

USAID, through its Partnership to Advance Clean Energy Deployment (PACE-D) Program, will work with the ADB to assist Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and select states in the design and development of public private partnership (PPP) investment models for solar parks.

The assistance will focus on bringing innovation to the grid integration of power from concentrated renewable energy generation areas such as solar parks.

The specific frameworks for technical assistance are being established in coordination with MNRE, ADB said.

"ADB welcomes this collaboration with USAID that brings together our respective strengths, expertise, and resources to the common objective of supporting India's targets for clean energy expansion," said Kho.

"USAID and ADB have a shared interest in helping the government of India achieve clean energy targets. This partnership with ADB is a good example of how together we can broaden and multiply our contribution," said Addleton.

The government has targetted to install renewable energy capacity of 175 gigawatts by 2022.

In support of this, MNRE launched a solar parks scheme to



attract investment from project developers by reducing risks, streamlining the permitting process, bringing down cost through economies of scale, and modernizing infrastructure to allow easier integration of renewable energy into the grid.

MNRE plans to establish 25 solar parks with a combined capacity of 20,000 megawatts of solar power by 2020.

The agreement between USAID and ADB will help finance the development of solar parks in support of the government of India's renewable energy targets, said the release.

Besides Rajasthan, ADB is financing the development of power evacuation infrastructure for solar parks in Gujarat as well.
The first direct container vessel to Bangladesh from India left the Krishnapatnam Port today as part of coastal shipping agreement to facilitate trade between both the nations.

"Krishnapatnam Port...Earmarked a historical moment for India's bilateral trade and commerce as the first direct container vessel, part of coastal shipping agreement to facilitate trade between India and Bangladesh, set sail from the port on 28th March 2016," KPCL said in a statement.

The trade agreements signed earlier between India and Bangladesh were revived during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka last year.

"MV Harbour-1 owned by Neepa Paribahan and built by Western Marine Shipyard is the first Bangladesh container vessel to have received the permission from the shipping departments of both the countries," the statement said.

Krishnapatnam Port Company Ltd (KPCL) Managing Director Chinta Sasidhar said "the service will play a vital role in decongesting the border points and bringing down the cost and transit time involved, thereby providing the best competitive freight rates to the advantage of the industry".

A standard operating procedure was signed between India and Bangladesh last November to move commercial cargo between the two countries also stating the provisions and procedures to be followed for such movement.

To facilitate easy bilateral trade, many conditions have been waived by both countries.

"The vessels of both the countries upon entry into India and Bangladesh shall be treated as domestic vessels and not foreign going vessels. The provision will play a key role in addressing the traffic congestion at Petrapole (India) and Benapole (Bangladesh) the two border points which pose as one of the biggest impediments to the movement of EXIM cargo," the statement said.

This will also offer to reduce the paper work required at the customs check points and port dues paid at Indian ports too will be at par with Indian vessels.

The vessel and cargo will also enjoy complete Protection and Indemnity (P&I) coverage insuring cargo from the point of loading to the final destination and till the time the parcel reaches the final consignee.

The crews on both vessels are exempted from aligning to international certifications as they are certified as per the provisions of the two countries, the company said adding that both the countries have agreed to reduce customs documentation and other requirements to the essential minimum for the purpose of easier cargo movement.

Earlier, shipments from Indian ports being transported to



Bangladesh were routed either via Colombo or Singapore.

"With the launch of the direct service, time taken for such shipments would come down from 2 to 5 days. We are certain that this will not only build the relationship but also reflect positively on exporters and importers of both the countries, ultimately benefiting the end consumers," said Anil Yendluri, Director and CEO, KPCL.

The opening of this route will also enable the movement of cargo to the North Eastern states of India through coastal shipping up to Chittagong and thereafter by road or inland waterways.

Also, the deep draft ports on the eastern coast of India can be 'hub ports' for the onward transportation of cargo to Bangladesh through River Sea Vessels (RSV).

Ninety two per cent of the country's export import trade and draw cargo from western, central and southern India heads to Bangladesh.

"Shipping to ICT Pangaon via KPCT will provide exporters with a smooth, hassle-free, faster transit and cost efficient shipping service. Exporters and importers from Bengaluru, trading with Bangladesh can utilise and benefit by our weekly train service from ICD Bengaluru to KPCT or road services by trailer/truck," said Vinita Venkatesh, Director, Krishnapatnam Port Container Terminal.

Krishnapatnam Port promoted by the Hyderabad-based CVR Group is a privately built and owned all weather, deep water port on the east coast of India, located in the Nellore District of Andhra Pradesh.
Hitting out at "interference" of non-Hindus in temple affairs, VHP today objected to printing of Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim's name in the invitation card for a temple car festival at Puttur near here.

VHP Working President M B Puranik said his organisation had strongly condemned the "interference" of non-Hindus in temple affairs.

Local Congress MLA Shakuntala Shetty, who was among the first to raise the issue, backtracked from her earlier statement against the Lord Mahalingeshwara temple authorities for printing the name of Ibrahim for the April 17 car festival.

Puranik's press conference came in the wake of Shetty backing out from her statement against the invitation, saying the issue could be sorted out legally.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim had also issued a clarification that as district magistrate, his name was printed in the invitation as per protocol.

However, Purnanik said the inclusion of DC's name in the Puttur temple invitation had "hurt the sentiments" of Hindus and it was ironic that a person who had no belief in Hindu religion was inviting Hindus to take part in the festival.

This was a "clear violation" of the Section 7 of the 1997 Karnataka Hindu Religious Institutions and Charitable Endowments Act, he claimed.

Reacting to Ibrahim's statement that the controversy over his name in the invitation was out of "intolerance", Puranik said the DC should not try to teach them what was intolerance.

He added that the organisation had nothing personal against the deputy commissioner and wanted matters to be carried out as per law.

Puranik also condemned the state government's reported move to appoint five non-Hindus in the Muzrai department governing religious institutions.
Scientists have uncovered why whisky does not leave behind "coffee rings" when it dries, an advance that may lead to a new type of industrial coating or even ink for 3D printers.

When coffee is spilled and allowed to evaporate on a surface, it typically leaves behind a ring, which has come to be known logically enough, as the coffee ring effect.

Researchers at the Princeton University in US analysed various whiskies and other fluids and their results suggest the possibility for a new type of industrial coating.

Ernie Button, a photographer living in Arizona noticed that the residue left behind when whisky dried in a clear drinking glass, was starkly dramatic when lit from below with various colours.

He began photographing such residue and eventually noticed that not all whiskies left behind interesting patterns, 'Phys.Org' reported.

The research team at Princeton found that those whiskies that did not leave behind a coffee ring type pattern when they evaporated, had two important features.

The first was fat-like molecules that lowered surface tension - as the liquid evaporated they collected on the edges of the drying surface which in turn caused the creation of a tension gradient that pulled the liquid back inward.

The second feature was plant-derived polymers that caused a sticking effect, which in turn helped to channel particles in the liquid to the base material where they stayed stuck.

The researchers created liquids that behaved in the same way as whisky. Removing either the polymers or surfactants prevented the liquid from leaving behind non-coffee ring characteristics.

The researchers noted that because of its even coating distribution characteristics, whisky-type liquids could very well prove suitable for industrial coatings or even as a type of ink for 3D printers.

The research was published in the journal Physical Review Letters.
Delhi High Court today said the government's decision to ban around 344 fixed dose combinations (FDCs) was apparently taken as it could not take action those companies making such medicines with licences from state authorities.

"It appears that since you do not have power to control your state licensing authorities, you are taking this action. It all boils down to this that you have exercised this power as you do not have power to take action against those operating without valid license from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI)..

"That is what I feel," Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw said adding there was a "lacunae" in the system if state authorities were not under control of DCGI.

The observation came after the court heard arguments of Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain, appearing for the Centre, who said there were no valid licences for making any of the banned FDCs and added it was difficult to implement any action at state level.

However, the ASG also said the lack of approval for these FDCs were a secondary issue and the primary focus was that it "lacked safety and efficacy" and thus, "ban was the only answer".

Opposing the arguments of the government, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Pfizer, said no reason was given for banning the FDCs other than saying that these combinations were not rational and lacked therapeutic justification.

He also wondered whom the government was promoting and, in a lighter vein, remarked "Patanjali is becoming more famous nowadays".

When the government was saying these combinations in current quantities are not safe, then it should have said what combinations in what quantity were safe, Sibal said.

The ASG, seeking lifting of the stay on the ban, said thousands of FDCs were under scanner but only 344 were banned as "there was no therapeutic justification for them".

He said that in India "general tendency of medical practitioners is to take the easy route. So they prescribe what is already available in a fixed dose."



To this, the court said,"This cannot be an argument. Then why not say they were prohibited from manufacturing" and added that if someone was manufacturing without approval then action has to be taken against them.

"What you have done is you have banned FDCs whether approval exists or not," it added.

The court sought a list showing which of the petitioner



drugs companies have got licences from DCGI and which ones from state bodies. It listed the matters for further hearing tomorrow.

The companies, which include Pfizer, Glenmark, Procter and Gamble (P&G) and Cipla, have challenged the government's March 10 decision to ban 344 FDCs. The decision was stayed in each individual case by the court as an interim measure which still continues.

The court also sought a list of those FDCs which were held to be rational by the government's expert panel but were still banned and those that were being manufactured since before 1988.

The drug companies, during arguments, said the expert committee was set up to look into licences granted by state authorities and claimed that the government, in order to ban drugs approved by state bodies, banned those approved by DCGI.

The companies claimed that the panel was not even a statutory body and thus, there was non-application of mind by the government whose action was "outside the statute" and as a result the interim stay be not lifted.

Meanwhile, DCGI told the court that one of the ingredients in Corex cough syrup was codeine which was not available separately as a syrup in the market. This was the case with majority of the affected FDC drugs, it added.

DCGI also said some FDCs are made only as a promotional practice and there was no other incentive for doing so.

The DCGI said when a FDC was available in the market, doctors felt "compelled" to prescribe that instead of prescribing the ingredients separately in the required dosage.

Pursuant to the court's interim stay order, some well- known medicines on which the ban on sale was lifted were Pfizer's Corex cough syrup, P&G's Vicks Action 500 extra, Glaxo's



Piriton expectorant, Reckitt's D'Cold, Piramal's Saridon, Glenmark's Ascoril and Alex cough syrups, Abbott's Phensedyl cough syrup and Alembic's Glycodin cough syrup.

Government had banned 344 FDCs on the ground that they involve "risk" to humans and safer alternatives were available.

As per the notification, "On the basis of recommendations of an expert committee, the central government is satisfied that it is necessary and expedient in public interest to regulate by way of prohibition of manufacture for sale, sale and distribution for human use of said drugs in the country.
Zydus Healthcare, a subsidiary of Cadila Healthcare, has acquired gastrointestinal brand 'Actibile' from drug firm Albert David for an undisclosed amount.

Zydus Healthcare has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Actibile from Albert David Ltd, Cadila Healthcare said in a regulatory filing.

The brand falls in the gastroenterology segment and is used for dissolving gall bladder stones. The deal will be financed through internal accruals, it added.

"The gastrointestinal segment has been one of our core focus segments and we have been working with the medical fraternity to serve patient needs better, I believe this acquisition will strengthen our portfolio of brands and leverage our equity in this key segment", Zydus group Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj R Patel said.

The company however did not share financial details.

The BSE-listed Albert David Ltd is the pharmaceutical venture of the Rs 2,000 crore Kothari Group, a Kolkata-based industrial group.

Albert David is involved in manufacturing and marketing of branded formulations in India and abroad and also has operations in medical disposables.

Shares of Cadila Healthcare today closed 0.44 per cent down at Rs 318.90 apiece on BSE.
Luxor Capital, a $3.8 billion hedge fund that has been losing money for months, said on Monday it will not be returning exiting investors cash in full, keeping a portion locked up until some illiquid investments can be sold.

Instead of returning all exiting clients' assets in cash, investors will receive 88% of their money back while 12% of the investments will be held in a so-called special purpose vehicle, Luxor's founder, Christian Leone, wrote in a letter seen by Reuters.

The announcement comes before a critical March 31 redemption deadline and aims to treat all investors "fairly," the letter said.

"For those investors in the Fund that have submitted withdrawal requests for March 31, 2016 and for subsequent withdrawal dates, we will transfer a pro rata share of the applicable assets into a special purpose vehicle (SPV)," Leone wrote.

Only clients who asked to get their money out on April 1 and July 1 will see a portion of their money put into the SPV and the fund will not charge any fees on these assets.

Special purpose vehicles and side pockets are permitted at hedge funds but they are often viewed as a last resort that sour investors, and they have not been widely used since the 2008 financial crisis when many hedge funds posted heavy losses.

But consultants have said that if illiquid positions become large, then it is prudent to segregate them and not charge fees until gains are realized.

After sending the letter, Leone held a brief conference call with investors where he identified the four illiquid securities being put into the special purpose vehicle. Together they make up 12% of the portfolio, he said.

They include food delivery service Delivery Hero, which Leone said makes up more than half of the exposure and has seen a "multifold appreciation since we initially made the investment." Additionally private equity investments in online food ordering service Foodpanda and drilling company Ascent Resources are in the SPV as well as preferred stock of Altisource Asset Management.

Leone told investors that clients have redeemed roughly 10% of their money in the first quarter and that redemptions requests are expected to be similar in the second quarter.

Last year, the fund saw investors redeem roughly 8% of their money from Luxor, a number that is roughly in line with what investors have done every year.

Luxor had been a popular fund in the hedge fund industry, gaining recommendations from such influential industry consultants as Cliffwater LLC, which advises on $56 billion in alternative assets invested by public and private pension funds as well as endowments and other big investors.

But in 2015 it lost 19.2% when the average fund lost about 1% and it started 2016 with a 5.2% loss in January. This unnerved some clients, including Rhode Island's state pension fund, which gave Luxor $50 million to invest in 2014, to exit. Last week its investment committee voted to pull its money out at the end of June and the fund told Reuters that it expected to receive $35 million back.

Luxor did not say when it expects to return the rest, saying only "We will continue to actively manage the assets held by the SPV until we can liquidate them in an orderly manner."
By Kate Holton

HEREFORD, England (Reuters) - Above a factory floor of machines carving metal to within a millionth of a metre, Stephen Cheetham is preparing his company for the unknown: a British exit from the European Union.

Since the government announced a referendum on Britain's future in Europe, Cheetham has deferred investment decisions, put off expensive hiring and even bought equipment with his own money to avoid straining the balance sheet.

The aim is to prepare his company, which makes parts for first-class airline seats and intricate scientific equipment, for what he fears will be a slump in business if Britain votes to leave the world's biggest trading bloc.

"It is extremely difficult to prepare for and it worries me witless," said the owner of PK Engineering. "But our disaster plan is very clear: if all the kit is paid for, we hang on to it and we ditch everybody apart from the core."

Britain's big listed companies have appointed lawyers and strategists to identify the risks of a British exit, or Brexit. Wary of meddling in politics, however, they have largely not detailed their plans for the June 23 vote.

But smaller companies in the manufacturing heartlands, crucial to the economy and often inextricably linked to continental Europe, are formulating contingency plans that illustrate the risks facing businesses across the country and the steps being taken to mitigate them.

At the start of 2015, almost half of Britain's private-sector turnover came from firms that employed fewer than 249 people, according to the Department for Business.

For Cheetham his "disaster plan" involves jettisoning nearly half of his 30 employees if a Brexit compounds the drag from an already slowing global economy at his firm in the English rural town of Hereford.

Across the nearby Welsh border, Gareth Jenkins, who runs a toolmaking firm, has identified which major customers in Europe are likely to abandon him should they have to accept higher costs or slower delivery times that might come from new border controls with EU countries if Britain leaves the bloc.

He has calculated the financial impact and says in a worst-case scenario he could lose 25 percent of his turnover. He plans to tell his 91 employees in the next couple of weeks that a vote to leave could force him to lay off a quarter of staff.

POOR VISIBILITY

Very little is clear ahead of the referendum called by Prime Minister David Cameron, with British voters divided on membership and both sides in the debate arguing Britain would be financially better off if their cause succeeds.

The fears of business owners like Cheetham and Jenkins are driven by what most Britons - on either side of the debate - accept is unchartered economic territory should Britain vote to leave the group it joined 43 years ago.

The terms of any divorce would be subject to two years of negotiations with the EU, with no guarantees of how the new order would look.

At present British companies trading with other EU nations do not face customs tariffs, costly paperwork such as certificates of origin or VAT - sales tax - on imports.

Should it opt to leave, Britain may negotiate continued tariff-free access but additional administrative burdens will almost certainly apply, making exporting to and importing from the EU more costly, say business owners and lawyers.

They also fear any restrictions on European workers and a prolonged period of a volatile pound, while the effect on the EU of losing its second-largest economy is unclear.

Adam Shuter, head of haulier Exact Logistics, is investigating whether he should set up a German office, which he thinks could cost less than the additional taxes and paperwork of serving EU customers from outside the bloc.

"For a small business, it's quite a bit of investment," he said. "It just adds a layer of administration."

He is also gauging the extra customs costs his British customers might incur outside the EU, using non-members Norway and Switzerland as guides, and looking at how much it would cost to set up expensive software to handle border clearances.

He charges an additional 50 to 60 pounds ($70-85) per consignment for customs clearance into those two countries, on top of a typical European delivery cost of 40 to 50 pounds.

A spokesman for Vote Leave, one of the groups campaigning for Britain to leave the EU, said the concerns were unfounded.

The group argues companies would benefit from fewer regulations imposed by Brussels, while the government could be more nimble in agreeing trade deals with the likes of India, China and the United States.

"The UK is the EU's largest market so every incentive exists for the UK to strike a free trade deal with the EU while using its new-found control to also strike free trade deals across the world," it said.

GLOBAL TIES

Cheetham's focus is closer to home. He bought PK Engineering in Hereford, close to England's border with Wales, four years ago after a career in the automotive and finance industry.

With its 1.5 million pound ($2.2 million) turnover and 10,000 square ft factory, he says he is too small to employ consultants or lawyers ahead of the vote.

Like many of Britain's high-precision manufacturers, most of PK's goods - 90 percent - are exported to global supply chains, ending up at the likes of Boeing's factory in Seattle or Airbus's base in Toulouse.

"You think we're a rural business?" asks Cheetham of his 27-year-old firm based on a small industrial park nestled in rolling countryside 190 km (120 miles) west of London.

"If we screw up, Boeing in Seattle stops or Airbus in Toulouse stops ... it's all interconnected."

Clutching a component of an airline seat in his right hand, the 58-year-old details how the aluminium came from Finland and the fittings from Germany to meet an order from a French customer in Wales who will send it on to Toulouse or Seattle.

To his left is a large folder detailing the certification process the firm went through to allow it to win work in the aerospace sector. Known as the Aerospace Quality Certification AS9100C, the six-month process cost about 20,000 pounds.

The EU contributed to that cost in its bid to improve productivity and competitiveness in the bloc and Cheetham said it would have taken much longer to complete had he needed to stump up all the cash.

Leaving the bloc, Cheetham worries that his firm could miss out on this kind of advantage and become less competitive.

"Our ability to increase prices is very limited - whenever we try, we lose work," he said.

He has pushed back the hiring of a new senior engineer until after the vote.

"If we do vote for Brexit we will have a prolonged period of uncertainty and everything will grind to a halt, he said. "And we don't want to be caught holding the debt."

'MAPPED OUT IN MY MIND'

Any move that led to British manufacturing firms losing their place in global supply chains would deal a major blow to the British economy; the sector accounts for a tenth of its output and employs 2.65 million people, the vast majority in small and medium-sized firms.

Just over one hour's drive from Hereford through country lanes decked with daffodils stands Jenkins' 55,000 square ft toolmaking factory, a Welsh firm entwined in similar networks.

Like Cheetham, 59-year-old Jenkins has been studying contracts and trying to work out whether three of his biggest clients, all based in Germany, would be able to cope if they had to accept higher costs or slower delivery times.

He estimates that one if not two would stop using his FSG Tool and Die, Europe's largest privately owned design and build toolmaking firm.

"I have mapped this out in my mind," he says, in a room off the spotless factory where tools are being built to make everything from yoghurt pots to replacement hips and car parts.

"The minute we vote to leave customers will say there's a risk here and we need to mitigate it. We ship tools from here on Monday that they'll be using by Thursday. What happens if that is disrupted?" he said, fearing that they will look elsewhere.

Jenkins fears losing the close links he has developed with other EU firms should a vote to leave exclude it from the free movement and trade that has made the alliances work.

Up against the might of low-cost centres such as China, he teamed up with firms in Germany, Sweden and elsewhere to train one another's apprentices, refer sales, bid for emerging market work and hire a rep in Singapore to cover all their needs.

"It's a bit like a life raft," he said.

CUSTOMS CONUNDRUM

The customs issues are perhaps most crucial for hauliers such as Shuter's Exact Logistics, which delivers across Europe from its base in Rugby, central England.

While lawyers and business owners say any new tariffs could be low, they worry that deliveries could be delayed by customs clearance and additional paperwork, including certificates of origin and export tax declaration documents.

Shuter and one of his clients, Pete Churchill from Robert Welch Designs, estimate that the additional paperwork could mean the cost of a consignment jumps to between 150 to 200 pounds from the current 50 pounds.

That compares with the value of the consignment which can sometimes be as little as 500 pounds.

Sitting in an office crammed with filing cabinets and maps of Europe, Shuter is investigating how much it would cost to buy a new software system that could clear consignments with European tax and border authorities if Britain were to operate under different rules.

"You're probably talking in the region of 10-20,000 pounds, so it's relatively significant," he said.

British importers also fear they will have to pay VAT sales tax when they take delivery of goods from the EU - rather than at the point of sale - making cashflow harder to manage.

Facing so many unknowns, business owners such as Cheetham are struggling to plan for the future. Back in Hereford he lets his frustration show.

Normally a supporter of Cameron's Conservatives, he says he is furious at the position the government has put business owners in.

"They are playing roulette with the economic future of the country," he says, hands gripping the table. "We're just hoping for the best. I'm almost in denial."

($1 = 0.6933 pounds)

(Additional reporting by Tom Bergin and Paul Sandle; editing by Guy Faulconbridge and Pravin Char)
By Ahmad Ghaddar

LONDON (Reuters) - Oil prices firmed in thin Easter holiday trading on Monday, adding to gains in recent weeks as optimism holds that a production freeze among major producers may be implemented.

Brent crude futures were up 25 cents at $40.69 per barrel at 0916 GMT. Last week, the contract fell 76 cents, or nearly 2 percent, in its first decline in five weeks.

U.S. crude's front-month contract was up 34 cents at $39.80 a barrel.

Oil prices have risen about 50 percent from multi-year lows hit in January on glut worries.

Prices have been supported by disruptions to oil supplies in Nigeria and Iraq and plans by major producers to freeze their output at January levels.

Members and non-members from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) are due to meet in the Qatari capital Doha on April 17 to discuss the plan.

"There is going to be pressure on the participants in the meeting to ensure they achieve something. Otherwise they risk the support-market sentiment that we are seeing now dissipate rapidly," said Victor Shum, senior oil and gas analyst at IHS in Singapore.

So far, 10 countries have confirmed their attendance at the meeting, with only OPEC-member Libya saying it will not attend.

Declining U.S. oil output and strong U.S. gasoline demand have also supported oil prices.

Investors will be looking out for monthly U.S. production figures for January to be released this week as a barometer for the resilience of shale producers.

U.S. crude oil production fell for a third month in December to 9.26 million barrels per day due to declines in the biggest shale-producing states, although the fall was offset by a rise offshore, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

The EIA said this month that U.S. shale oil production in April is expected to record its second-largest monthly decline on record at around 106,000 barrels per day (bpd).

China's refined fuel stocks at the end of February were up 17.3 percent from the previous month to their highest level in four years, while commercial crude oil stocks were up 1.1 percent, the official Xinhua Agency reported on Monday.

(Additional reporting by Aaron Sheldrick in Tokyo; editing by Jason Neely)
Government will meet its target of doubling coal production by 2020 without the help of private miners, coal and power minister said, ruling out new measures to entice cash-strapped companies to begin mining the commodity.

Govt wants to produce 1.5 billion tonnes of coal by 2020 to power its economy and reduce imports. State-owned Coal India Ltd, the world's largest coal miner, has raised production in line with reaching a target of 1 billion tonnes a year within four years and the government wants private miners to produce much of the remainder.

But only a few companies that won the right to mine coal for their power plants last year have started production as they struggle to recover their costs, while the ministry this month delayed plans to open up commercial mining to private firms because of weak demand and depressed coal prices.

Piyush Goyal, power and coal minister, told Reuters that state-owned companies including power producer NTPC Ltd, Steel Authority of India Ltd and National Aluminium Co Ltd would instead pick up the slack by expanding their own mining operations.

"That target I will meet even if (private companies) don't come in," he said in a interview on March 23. "In the days to come I'll be auctioning out more mines. I've already got my plans in place."

NTPC is on course to produce 300 million tonnes alone by 2020, said Goyal, a former investment banker.

India's success in boosting its coal output after years of missed production targets has been central to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's energy policy.

Despite environmental worries, India plans to continue to depend on burning coal to provide power for its 1.3 billion people, some 300 million of whom still lack access to electricity.

The government last year auctioned off captive mines, sites already near end-users such as power plants, to private firms such as Hindalco Industries Ltd and Adani Power Ltd.

But most companies have not begun mining and have warned that rules prohibiting them from passing on rising costs to end-users make it tough to recover their costs after aggressive bidding during the auctions.

Goyal, however, said he would stick with the current system.

"These coal mines were given out by a system where the price benefit would go out to the people of India. It was a transparent bid by independent people without any compulsion to bid any price," he said. "They bid and they got it."

While Indian demand for coal has been lower-than-expected, Goyal said a major reform of indebted electricity distributors would soon free these utilities to start buying more power, boosting demand for coal.

Total investment into India's energy sector reached around $50 billion this financial year, he said, with roughly the same level expected next year as the government tenders new wind and solar projects and upgrades transmission lines.
Accenture Plc raised its full-year net revenue forecast well above analysts' expectations and reported better-than-expected quarterly revenue and profit, led by strong growth in its consulting business, especially in North America.

Shares of the company, whose competitors include IBM Corp and India's Infosys Ltd and Tata Consultancy Services, rose as much as 5.1 percent to a record high of $113.18 in early trading on Thursday.

Accenture has been investing heavily to boost its digital business, which offers analytics, content management, social media and cloud services to businesses.

"The company is very well positioned for newer, more discretionary projects, particulary around digital initiatives, where it's certainly taking share," Atlantic Equities analyst Christopher Hickey said.

Accenture is also less exposed to the healthcare and banking industries than some of its competitors, Hickey told Reuters.

The company, which is incorporated in Ireland, said it now expected full-year net revenue to increase by 8-10 percent in local currency terms, up from its previous estimate of 6-9 percent.

That implies revenue of $33.53 billion-$34.15 billion, well above the average analyst estimate of $32.20 billion, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S.

Revenue in the company's consulting division rose to $4.29 billion in the second quarter ended Feb. 29, an increase of 12 percent in dollar terms and 18 percent in local currency.

The business accounted for a little more than half of Accenture's revenue, with the rest coming from its outsourcing business. Outsourcing revenue was $3.65 billion, flat in dollar terms but up 6 percent in local currency.

Accenture's shares were up 3.3 percent at $111.29 in morning trading on the New York Stock Exchange.

Up to Wednesday's close, Accenture's stock had risen nearly 18 percent in the past 12 months compared with a 0.5 percent increase in the S&P 500 IT Services index.

Net revenue, or revenue before reimbursements, rose 6 percent in dollar terms and 12 percent in local currency terms, to $7.95 billion in the latest quarter.

Net income attributable to Accenture rose to $1.33 billion, or $2.08 per share, from $690.7 million, or $1.08 per share in the year-earlier period.

Excluding items, the company earned $1.34 per share.

Analysts on average had expected a profit of $1.18 per share and revenue of $7.72 billion.
A long line of voters stretches behind Logan High School on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 as they wait to participate in the Democratic Presidential Caucus.

Governor Gary Herbert says he would like to see Utah return to a presidential primary after far fewer people actually participated in Tuesdays state caucuses than in 2008, the last presidential election without a sitting president.

Local Democrats have a different view of the caucus idea. Party Chairman Vince Wickwar says Democrats are used to smaller numbers in Cache Valley where the majority of voters are Republican.

But he said shortly after the Caucus started people seemed to come out of nowhere.

Several people came and stepped up and said what could they do to help?, says Wickwar. Several of them even had back packs on them with computers in them, or nearby and went home and got their computers.

We had 19 people at the end checking people in. There were people who would come up and joined in, doubled the number. Others saw what was going on and helped manage the lines.

Wickwar says he is hoping many of those people will decide to join the Democratic Party.
Russias and Tajikistans joint antiterrorist exercise on March 15-20 involved five Tajik training ranges, and showcased bilateral security cooperation. The exercise seemed routine, consistent with each countrys national security concerns; however a number of factors coalesced on Moscows planning and deployment side to make it both unique and potentially revealing. Buoyed by its recent experience of military conflict in Ukraine and Syria, Russias Armed Forces display increased confidence in supporting a more pro-active Russian foreign policy posture. The elements it deployed in Tajikistan for the exercise contain strategic messages for the benefit of other actors and Russias potential adversaries in Central Asia: for regional governments the message is one of reassurance and renewed confidence.

BACKGROUND: Tajikistans defense ministry attached high priority to the bilateral exercise, though it vastly inflated participating Tajik personnel numbers. Tajikistans military personnel participating in the exercise included defense ministry units and reserves, but the hyperbolic claims of 50,000 massively eclipse the totals for men under arms in its military. The figure found its way unquestioningly into some Russian media reporting. Nonetheless, the presence of Tajikistans Defense Minister Sherali Mirzo and high ranking officers from Russias Central Military District (Tsentralnyy voyennyy okrug TsVO) attest that this was no ordinary antiterrorist exercise. Tajikistans defense ministry stressed that Russia had for the first time deployed forces and assets in addition to its 201st Base in Tajikistan (Dushanbe, Kulyab and Kurgan-Tube) using a total of 2,000 personnel, 950 armored vehicles and artillery pieces, and 32 combat and Military Transport Aviation (Voyenno Transportnoy Aviatsii-VTA) aircraft.

The active phase of the joint exercise involved forces interacting at five training ranges: Lyaur, Sumbula, Momirak, Harbmaydon and Halkaer. According to statements by both sides, the concept for the exercise was to rehearse a response to a coordinated external terrorist threat. Of course, such a terrorist threat in real terms posing a threat to Tajikistans territorial integrity may well be expected to invoke a collective response from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). Yet, using the bilateral format to host such exercises is by no means a novelty. The 201st Base frequently holds joint antiterrorist training exercises in Tajikistan. In October 2015, the Lyaur training range also featured in an exercise designed to rehearse repelling a terrorist incursion into Tajikistan.

IMPLICATIONS: In preparation for the exercise, Russia commenced movements of air platforms from TsVO mainly using its Tolmachevo airbase in Novosibirsk as well as its airbase in Kant (near Bishkek). The latter was also used to redeploy assets already based there, while the base itself functions under the CSTO umbrella. Approximately one week prior to the exercise the Russian Aerospace Forces (Vozdushno Kosmicheskikh SilVKS) sent assets to Ayni airbase (near Dushanbe) in Tajikistan including Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 strategic bombers, Su-25M, Su-24 fighter-bombers, Mi-24 attack helicopters, as well as Mi-8 multirole transport helicopters and An-124s closely coordinated with the VTA. Tu-95MS strategic bombers flew from Engels airbase, Saratov via Kazakhstan and Kant, Kyrgyzstan.

Russian attack aircraft reinforced Tajik Air Force units at Ayni airbase. Two pairs of Mi-24 and Mi-8 were deployed from Novosibirsk and Kant respectively. During the antiterrorist exercise issues of interoperability were addressed and both sides worked on a common approach to destroying illegal bandit groups, enemy bases and warehouses. The Tu-M3 strategic bombers were used to drop 500 kg bombs on notional illegal armed groups and their supply points in the foothills of the Eastern Pamirs. VKS and Tajik Air Force pilots practiced strikes against enemy infrastructure including ammunition dumps, training camps and enemy formations. They also concentrated on close air support (CAS) operations, with additional forces from motorized rifle, armored and artillery units, Special Forces, airborne and air assault provided by Russias elite Airborne forces (Vozdushno Desantnye Voyska  VDV).

While the Air Group seems closely modelled on the VKS operations in Syria, which the Russian General Staff judges to be ideally suited for the range of targets involved, the inclusion of the Tu-22M3 as in its use in Syria, appears part of Moscows strategic messaging to other actors. As in the operation to seize Crimea, events that ensued in Donbas and the VKS operations in Syria, Moscow folds into its Air Group a component (strategic bombers) that sends a warning to foreign powers to keep out. In this case, given ongoing tensions between Moscow and NATO and the deterioration in Washington-Moscow ties, it is a reminder to U.S. defense planners that the Kremlin will not tolerate American interference in its security interests or possible operations in Central Asia. Moreover, with Chinas increasing security attention to Central Asia, the Tu-22M3 reminds Beijing that Moscow is the security provider in the region; and it intends to keep it this way.

It is also important to note the broad range of military units used in the exercise and use of air power, which suggests that as in Syria the main priority for the VKS in the exercise with Tajikistan was the rehearsal of CAS. This fits with the insertion of airborne air assault, Special Forces alongside manoeuver units as well as artillery units. Western observers of the Russian operations in Syria have tended to overlook the fact that the Russian Army remains heavily tied to artillery: they use artillery as the key on-the-ground asset to range mass fires on enemy territory and formations with large numbers of artillery pieces. It also tested deployment speed and use of the VTA to facilitate the movement of assets. Russian forces may also have been experimenting with tactics tested and refined in Syria, especially concerning the coordination of units and the use of local forces to assist in the overall operation.

According to the press service of the Russian TsVO, the joint exercise was conducted using advanced information and automation tools, to facilitate high speed transmission of information, data and orders in a seamless network-centric environment. This involved the newly formed National Defense Management Center (Natsionalnyy Tsentr Upravleniya OboronoyNTsUO) in Moscow, which featured heavily in Russias media coverage of its Syria intervention, as well as various command and control centers (C2), particularly the headquarters of TsVO and deployment of mobile C2 and emergency centers.

CONCLUSIONS: What makes the latest iteration of the antiterrorist theme in the Russia-Tajikistan joint exercise so unique is the assembling of the Russian air grouping, the deployment methods used, additional assets ranging beyond the existing 201st Base and the first flights of Russias strategic bombers in Central Asian airspace since the dissolution of the USSR. Moreover, the Russian air group components used in Tajikistan bear a remarkable resemblance to the air group assembled and used in its air strikes and CAS operations in Syria.

Although the exercise implies Moscow takes seriously the potential threat to Central Asia from international terrorism, with a possible incursion by Islamic State or Taliban forces, this seems more contingency planning than anticipation of a crisis. The strategic message is clear: security crises in Central Asia that overwhelm local government capacity will be sorted out by Moscow  and no one else. But the preferred option to achieve this may be bilateral rather than the CSTO/SCO.

AUTHORS BIO: Roger N. McDermott is an Affiliated Senior Analyst, Danish Institute for International Studies, Copenhagen and an Advisory Scholar: Military Affairs, Center for Research on Canadian-Russian Relations (CRCR) Georgian College Ontario, Canada.

Image Attribution: images.military.com, accessed on March 25, 2016
Angolan activist gets 5-year sentence for organizing book club

Published on March 28, 2016

Story by Joao Fernandes Silva

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After a year of detention and more than a month of a hunger strike, Luaty Beirao finally knows his fate.

This past Monday, in a courtroom in Luanda, Angola, Luaty Beirao, a Portuguese-Angolan rapper-activist (stagename: Ikonoklasta) got his final sentence: 5 years in prison for the crimes of "rebellion" and "criminal association" after the accusations came out of the Angolan Prosecution more than a year ago.

On June 20, seventeen activists, aged 19 to 37, were arrested after forming a book club as a means to debate over the Angolan journalist's Domingos da Cruz Tools to destroy the dictator and avoid a new dictatorship  Political Philosophy for the Freedom of Angola. The author was also sentenced to 8 years of lock-up. The rest of the group got four years in jail.

The book is the adaptation of another book, written in 1993 by Gene Sharp, titled From Dictatorship to Democracy. It was also used to inspire the peaceful protest against dictatorship in Myanmar and later used by activists during the Arab Spring in Egypt and Tunisia. In 2015, it reached Angola. This version of Sharps book is heavily marked by the dichotomy between a dictator and the revolutionary forces. In this way, negotiations between the two factions are practically forbidden. However, even if violent acts are referred to twice in the book, the author made clear that it shouldnt be against people or ethically-acquired private goods and possessions. This was not enough to stop the Angolan Prosecution.

Most of the detained activists have a past of confrontation against the regime and, as a rapper, Luaty Beirao has written lyrics against the Government and the President. The youngest defendant is the 19 year old Manuel Nito Alves, who was previously detained as a minor in 2013 for insults against the President Jose Eduardo dos Santos after he ordered t-shirts where the head of the state since 1979 was dubbed a disgusting dictator.

The group ended up being dismantled and arrested mostly due to undercover officers infiltrating the open-door meetings. From those, some videos surfaced, which have then become the Prosecutions trump card.

The hunger strike

Since the activists were jailed and put into custody at the Calomboloca prison, 100km away from Luanda, the most fateful moment so far started on September 21, 2015. According to Angolan law, the suspects can be detained for 90 days for crimes against national security. However, the regime kept them for longer, which motivated a hunger strike by the activists.

Some of the men couldnt follow through but Luaty persevered and his case reached international news. During the 36 days of his hunger strike, a lot happened. He was transferred to a prison-hospital and then to a private practice where, under the close watch of guards, he received visits and letters from everywhere in Portuguese-speaking nations. Meanwhile, there were protests demanding his immediate release in Lisbon.

Many people tried to make him stop. The Angolan authorities threatened him multiple times that they would force-feed him, and even his wife wanted him to be a husband, father and friend, rather than a martyr. After a lot of pressure, he gave in on October 27, after his case received worldwide recognition.

On December 19, almost two months later, Luaty and the rest of the activists were put on house arrest, where they have been ever since. Now, after more than a year of tribulations, the 17 activists will have to do jail time in spite of the protests from the International Community and the Amnesty International.

Story by Joao Fernandes Silva
With the help of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, Homeland Security led a national operation, Project Shadowfire, resulting in the arrest of 68 individuals in South Texas who were wanted for different crimes.

SHARE With the help of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, Homeland Security led a national operation, Project Shadowfire, resulting in the arrest of 68 individuals in South Texas who were wanted for different crimes. Jessie Salazar

By Fares Sabawi of the Caller-Times

Homeland Security agents had a busy month.

With the help of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security led a national operation that resulted in the arrest of 68 individuals in South Texas who were wanted for different crimes. The nationwide five-week effort, dubbed Project Shadowfire, ended with 1,100 arrests. More than 900 of those who were arrested are suspected transnational gang members.

People arrested in the sting were wanted for violent crimes, including assault, domestic violence and homicide, said assistant special agent Bradley Scott.

"We targeted the worst of the worst," Scott said. "These guys have been a thorn in a lot of local police departments' sides."

Jessie Salazar, 20, was arrested March 1 on a bail violation in a murder case as a result of Project Shadowfire, according to Corpus Christi police. He testified in February against his former friend, Edward Elizondo, who was convicted of manslaughter and engaging in organized criminal activity. They are two of four men accused in the August 2014 killing of Robert Lee Garcia. Garcia, 29, was found dead under a stairwell. Salazar is scheduled for a plea hearing next month.

Corpus Christi police Lt. Chris Hooper said the gang unit also seized more than 100 grams of cocaine, $5,000 and a firearm while they executed the arrest warrants with Homeland Security and Border Patrol agents on March 1 and 2.

Detaining accused criminals is always a major focus for Homeland Security, Scott said, but it was time for a major sting.

"We just pushed it during this time," Scott said. "It was time to make a stand for law enforcement agencies to come together and let the public know we're here to keep everyone safe."

Conducting an operation with such a high result was made possible by collaboration, Scott said. Some law enforcement agencies like keeping investigations to themselves, but that wasn't the case in South Texas, Scott said.

"Everyone just wants to get the job done," Scott said. "One of the first things I realized when I started here was every agency had open arms."

Krista M. Torralva contributed to this report.

Twitter: @Caller_Fares
Dayna Worchel/Special to the Caller-Times Ram Chavez has collected 160 photos of area men who were killed or are missing in action from the Vietnam War.

SHARE Matthew Thayer/Maui News Janna Hoehn, a volunteer with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Faces Never Forgotten program who lives in Hawaii, has worked for years to find pictures of service members who died in the Vietnam War. Dayna Worchel/Special to the Caller-Times John Earhart (from left), Ram Chavez, Ernesto Ramos Jr., and Eddie Heskett stand next to some of 160 photos they have helped to collect from around the Coastal Bend for the virtual Wall of Faces project spearheaded by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund. All of them are also members of The Veterans Band of Corpus Christi. Matthew Thayer/Maui News Janna Hoehn, a volunteer with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Faces Never Forgotten program who lives in Hawaii, has worked for years to find pictures of service members who died in the Vietnam War. She started with finding pictures for natives of Maui County in Hawaii and has expanded her efforts to other states. She has located roughly 1,500 photos since her search began six years ago. Dayna Worchel/Special to the Caller-Times Sue Heskett, wife of Eddie Heskett, displays some photos at the Veterans Band practice headquarters on March 21.

By Dayna Worchel of the Caller-Times

The faces of the young American servicemen from the Coastal Bend killed during the Vietnam War were both haunting and hopeful as they stared from their frames.

Each serviceman, some in formal dress and some in battle gear, some in black and white and some in color, has his name carved in the black granite of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial among 58,000 other names in Washington, D.C. Some of the men, barely out of their teens when they were killed, are smiling. Others, wearing soldier's helmets and backpacks, look very serious.

"Each one has a story to tell," said Ram Chavez, band director of The Veterans Band of Corpus Christi, who, with his bandmates, had carefully arranged each picture on top of a black tablecloth inside of the old home in Heritage Park where the band practices. "It's important to remember the faces with the names."

The Corpus Christi native served as a senior medic in the Army in Vietnam from September 1967 to September 1968, and knew some of the men personally when they were classmates at Miller High School. He said he began collecting their photos not long after returning from his service in Vietnam, and now has more than 160.

Chavez and his fellow veterans are working to help Janna Hoehn, a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund volunteer who lives in Maui, Hawaii, and dozens of others from across the country in the fund's effort to pair these photos with the names on the wall. The fund, a national, nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., is working to obtain a picture of each American man and woman who perished in that war and has his or her name on the wall. As these photos are collected, they are scanned and displayed on The Wall of Faces, a virtual wall on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund website.

Hoehn began collecting her photos about six years ago when she and her husband made a trip to Washington, D.C., and visited the wall. She was in high school during the Vietnam War, and she had two cousins who went to fight there. Luckily, both made it back alive, although one of them died six months ago from the effects of his exposure to Agent Orange, Hoehn said.

"Even though I never knew anyone killed in Vietnam, I wanted a rubbing of one of the names," she said.

She found the name of Gregory John Crossman, who was listed as Missing in Action, returned home with the etching and began to search for his family, but to no avail. After six months, Hoehn said one of her cousins did some research and found Crossman's college photo.

When she saw news reports about the project to match the names on the wall with the faces, Hoehn submitted the photo of Crossman.

"Five days later I heard from Jan Scruggs, who founded the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, and he asked me to help find the photos for the 42 Maui County fallen which were killed in Vietnam. I said I would be honored," Hoehn said in a telephone interview.

It took her about six months to complete the work, and she said she enjoyed it so much, she decided to tackle the state of California next. She first found the five soldiers killed in action in her childhood hometown of Hemet, California. Hoehn said she still needs 1,000 photos from Los Angeles County alone. To date, she has collected roughly 1,500 photos and completed collecting photos from the states of Hawaii, Montana, Wyoming, New Mexico, South and North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

"This has become a passion for me," Hoehn, who also works full time as a florist, said.

"We need a lot more people helping," she said, adding that she works about 40 hours per week on her photo search.

Hoehn said she continues to work so much on her search because she wanted to do something to help Vietnam veterans after seeing of the way they were treated when they returned to the U.S. after their service.

"It was disgraceful," she said.

Hoehn recently began working to find photos of fallen servicemen and women from Texas.

"I can feel how much Texas loves its veterans," she said.

The photos of the fallen service members may someday be displayed in a physical location. Plans are in the works now for an underground two-story Education Center and museum between the wall and the Lincoln Memorial, Hoehn said, adding that groundbreaking should happen in about two years.

"It will display all the items that Park Services have documented and collected for 32 years at the wall," she said.

Once the Education Center is built, plans call for a photo of each fallen servicemen to be displayed on his birthday, Hoehn said.

Scruggs, who asked Hoehn to help find faces for the Wall of Faces, is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Army there from 1968 to 1970. He founded the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund in April 1979. He led the effort with a group of fellow veterans to create the organization and now serves as President Emeritus. In 1980, Congress authorized the organization to build a national memorial to all of those who served in the Vietnam War.

Scruggs first began collecting photos of the servicemen in the early 1980s.

"About 10 years ago, we went full blast in the context of the Education Center," Scruggs said.

Collecting the photos allows the organization to honor the fallen veterans in a significant way, he said.

"A photo is powerful and augments the power of the wall," Scruggs said.

HOW TO HELP

If you have a photo of a serviceman who died in Vietnam, please send it to Janna Hoehn at neverforgotten2014@gmail.com, or send it to Ram Chavez at rchavez20@stx.rr.com.

LOCAL SOLDIERS WITHOUT PHOTOS

Nueces County

Samuel Blunt, Corpus Christi, 1937-1968

Jose Davila, Chapman Ranch, 1949-1968

Mario P. DeLeon, Robstown, 1948-1969

Espiridion Perez, Corpus Christi, 1939, 1969

Aransas County

Wilton J. Sullinger Jr., Aransas Pass, 1948-1968

For more information, visit www.vvmf.org/Wall-of-Faces.
The Burundian President made the declaration on December 30, 2015.

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Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza said Wednesday, December 30, 2015 that he would fight proposed African Union peacekeepers if they set foot on Burundian soil, defying intense global pressure to accept the force, Mail Online reported.



"Everybody should respect the borders of Burundi. If the troops are in violation of this decision, they will have attacked Burundi, and each Burundian must stand up to fight them. The country will have been attacked, and we will fight them." Nkurunziza is quoted as having said in a speech broadcast on state radio.



He further argued that, "You cannot send troops to a country if the United Nations Security Council has not accepted it... the UN resolution says the international community should respect the independence of Burundi." Mr Nkurunziza said, "When there are two warring forces then you can have a peacekeeping force. But this is not the case here, because we are facing a security problem. It is not a political issue, because this was resolved by the elections."



The African Union (AU) gave Burundi a four-day deadline on December 17 to accept a 5,000-strong force to halt months of violence, pledging to send troops even though Burundi said it was opposed to an "invasion force". The proposed force, the African Prevention and Protection Mission in Burundi, is known by its acronym in French, MAPROBU. No details of possible troop contributing nations have been given, or any timeline for its deployment.



AU Commission chief Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has written to the UN Security Council asking for "full UN support including the authorisation of a support package" for the force, the AU has said. The UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon earlier this December said that deploying UN peacekeepers to Burundi was an option to quell the violence.

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Customer experience isnt a new concept. Back in 1473, when stone masons started work on the Sistine Chapel, worshippersand how they would interact with the chapelwas very much top of mind.

The chapel was built for the private use of the Pope and an elite group of priests who were part of the Holy Fathers inner circle. With their target audience in mind, the masons thought hard about their user journeys and how they could create the most heavenly experience possible.

To begin with, the masons thought about the feelings they wanted to conjure when the small flock entered the chapel. So they built steps, wide at the bottom to signify that all were welcome to the faith, and narrow at the top to remind people of how difficult it can be to pass through the gates of heaven. The steps themselves became steeper towards the top to give a sense of ascendency.

Once in the chapel, the masons ensured it was easy for worshippers to access the pews. A pulpit was placed at the far end that everybody could clearly see. The masons paid particular attention to the acoustics. It was important the words of the preacher would travel and, no matter how quietly he spoke, he would be heard.

The rows of windows on each side of the chapel allowed shafts of light to flood in, illuminating the room as well as giving a sense of divine approval.

It was a truly ecclesiastical experience.

But when Pope Julius II entered this remarkable place, he felt something was missing (as is the case with much of todays customer experience, which well touch on later).

Where were the magnificent images that showed the power of the Almighty? The creation of Adam? The fight between good and evil? Angels? Demons? And the biblical stories that would empower people to live a Godly life?

Today, we call it 'content'. Back then, it was called inspiration.

Michelangelo, along with other talented painters, was called in to create the magic. And people, even today, are left in awe after a visit to the chapel.

But whats the lesson?

Simply this: Much of the customer experience out there today is simple and easy to navigate. Utility is paramount (as it should be). But, a bit like the early Sistine Chapel, an important part of the experience is often missing. Many brand sites, for example, invest heavily in information architecture, user experience and technology. But they miss the inspirational stories, themes and content which raise the emotional connection with consumers to another level.

Quite often, experience and content are seen as two different tracks. They should be seen as one.

Lessons from the past

Anyone who grew up in the advertising industry knows how brand psychology can dramatically influence brand preference. There are great lessons to be learnt from VW, Nike and Marlboro (a cigarette brand which originally had 2 percent market share in the USA before the cowboy imagery, and all the associations that came with it, propelled the brand to world dominance).

And anyone who grew up in the digital world knows how user experience can transform customer engagement. There are great lessons to be learned from Uber, Spotify and Amazon, to name but a few.

So how do you bring these two views of the world together? We believe you need to start in the middle, the strategic epicenter, where UX thinking and brand strategy overlap.

We call it the 'organising idea'. Not an entirely new concept but one whose application in a digitised world can be transformative.

Organising ideas bring purpose to a brand. They create an emotional connection with consumers beyond utility and rational features. And can create loyalty beyond reason.

So who out there is getting it right? Who is striking the right balance between experience and brand building content?

Net-A-Porter: e-commerce site or magazine?

Net-A-Porter is an e-commerce site that interweaves editorial content with the shopping experience beautifully and seamlessly. The site has become so successful that the owners decided to create a physical magazine in 2014. Despite being US$4 more than Vogue, its already matching British Vogues circulation figures.

The brand's online growth is meteoric, too. Last year, the online business saw a 31 per cent increase in sales, outstripping competitors by a large margin. The company has created a proven formula, the perfect balance between commerce and content. Youd imagine competitors would be falling over themselves to copy it.

But theyre not.

Perhaps thats not surprising. Net-A-Porter has invested heavily in the right team. It has hired not only seasoned digital marketers but also top-notch editorial teams. Lucy Yeomans, Porters editor-in-chief, who previously served as editor at Harpers Baazar, is an acclaimed magazine journalist with top industry plaudits to her name. With someone of that calibre steering the ship, its not surprising 6 million people read, watch and shop their website each month.

So what lessons can Net-A-Porter teach companies that want to do well in the e-commerce space?

Dont skimp on talent. Anyone can copy the Net-A-Porter model. But its the people behind the model that make the difference. Dont expect a junior creative team from an ad agency or PR company to give you same editorial clout as the heavyweights from Net-A-Porter. Theres a reason theres an A in the name. It stands for the A team.

A platform on performance enhancing drugs

Facebook Instant Articles is a platform that is helping publishers and brands take mobile content publishing to another level. Yes, its a template. And, just like the Enterprise Solutions we encounter everyday, it is a bit robotic and familiar.

However, although the platform abides to a rigid format, it is designed to propagate rich and engaging content.

Take a look at Nat Geos article Quest for a Super Bee.

The video at the top of the article launches automatically. A silhouetted bee hovers in slow motion over a hive, the buzzing sound of its flapping wings audible over your mobile phones speaker.

As you scroll down, you are immersed in the authors words until you come to a photograph of a bees face. As you stop to examine the fascinating close up, commentary from the photographer fades in. As you continue to scroll down, the commentary slowly fades out.

Theres a hint of more to come further down the page. A photograph of a bee sweeps left and right, suggesting that 360 photography and video is available. Or soon will be.

Facebook Instant Articles gives us a truly multimedia and immersive experienceshame its only for mobile devices.

So what implications does this have for publishers and brands going forward?

Content, and the quality of production, is going to be a huge differentiator. It will no longer be enough to rely on stock shots and low-grade assets. Investment in content will be paramount. Clients that embrace this opportunity will get the consumer engagement they desire. Clients that ignore the necessity for quality will be, well, ignored.

Andy Greenaway is executive creative director, Asia-Pacific, at SapientNitro
Based in Singapore, Boyd will report directly to Justin Spelhaug, APAC marketing & operations (M&O) leader.

It is understood that Boyd takes over from Corinne Monty, who was appointed to the role of central marketing organization (CMO) director in 2014, and oversaw marketing communications strategy and execution in Asia Pacific

She will be tasked with leading the "telling of Microsofts customer story in compelling and immersive ways" across all marketing platforms.

Boyd was most recently head of marketing of Microsoft Mobile Devices in APAC, after being the marketing lead in Australia then Indonesia for almost five years.

In her new role, she will also be responsible for providing customers with best-in-class content and tools that are designed for the digital era.

Boyd said the Asia Pacific region has some of the most dynamic markets in the world, which is transforming the way marketing is done, especially in a mobile-first, cloud-first world.

I look forward to helping people and businesses here unlock their potential and achieve more with the right tools, she added in a statement issued.

Boyds marketing background spans consumer, business-to-business and partner channels across emerging and developed markets.

Prior to joining Microsoft, Boyd led the digital marketing and channels team at Telstra, and played a role in adding digital strategies to its marketing mix.
Monday, March 28, 2016 at 8:42AM

More than 1.2 billion people* worldwide still live without access to electricity. Lack of electric lighting severely impacts health, education, income-generation and safety at nighttime.

Panasonic Corporation's "100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project" has passed its halfway mark with the cumulative number of solar lanterns donated exceeding 50,000 on March 10, 2016. This project began in February 2013 with a donation of 3,000 units to Myanmar, followed by donations to other areas in Asia and Africa without access to electricity.

The number of solar lanterns donated was 10,000 for 3 countries in FY2013, 14,114 for 10 countries in FY2014 and 20,364 for 11 countries in FY2015. And in FY2016, Panasonic continued to donate solar lanterns, and on March 10, 2016, 702 units were donated to Yen Bai province in Vietnam. With this, the sum total of solar lanterns donated exceeded 50,000. After this, in mid-March 2016, Panasonic donated 2,400 units to Cambodia and 760 units to Bangladesh. Furthermore, donations to Indonesia, India, and the Democratic Republic of Congo will be made by the end of March 2016, bringing the sum total to more than 60,000 units.

The "100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project" is one of Panasonic's corporate citizenship activities (social contribution activities) that utilize "products" it manufactures. More than 1.2 billion people* worldwide still live without access to electricity. Lack of electric lighting severely impacts health, education, income-generation and safety at nighttime. Panasonic hopes to help alleviate the social challenges people in developing and emerging countries living off-grid are facing, and to bring positive change to their lives by donating small lighting devices powered by solar energy. Panasonic has also donated solar lanterns to give relief to communities stricken by large-scale natural disasters or by epidemics.
"If you are going to disrupt services to that many people for a year you would expect roadworks that would deliver a strategic advantage, such as an overpass or underpass, not just traffic lights," Sophie Wade of the Duplicate The Barton Highway Community Action Group said.
When the six-star energy-rated office was leased to the now defunct Department of Climate Change, it was criticised by the Coalition as one of the worst property deals for the Commonwealth in 20 years and as "an unbelievable reckless waste of Australian taxpayers money".
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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.

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The second-generation Porsche Panamera will be revealed in full at the Paris Motor Show this October.



This is going to be the brands second major product launch after the unveiling of the 718 Boxster, company sources told AutoNews.

We have already seen Porsche testing their new four-door model with almost no camo at all, which is a companys way to tell the world that their model is almost ready. The new Panamera will be using VWs new lighter and more fuel efficient MSB platform, which is also going to underpin models like the new Bentley Continental.

Instead of re-imagining the whole concept of the model, Porsche has worked on ironing out the looks of the Panamera, with the new generation expected to be way more proportioned than the original.

The four-door luxury model was the worst-selling Porsche last year, with sales declining 31 per cent to 17,207 units compared to 2014. Despite the decline in sales, the Panamera remained popular with customers in China thanks to the combination of a 911s sporty character with the roominess of a four-door body.

Porsche is also planning to offer a Shooting Brake variant, initially in Europe, in a bid to further boost sales and attract buyers that need the added practicality but dont want to switch over to an SUV.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops

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In an attempt to keep pace with the growth of the crossover market and an increasing clientele, Nissan will increase production of its compact crossover.



Currently produced at its Sunderland plant on Line 1 alongside the all-electric Leaf, the Qashqai will be built on Line 2, joining the Juke, Note and Infiniti Q30, after an investment of 22 million (32$ million/29 million) in all areas. Production at the second line is scheduled to commence by years end.

When the first Qashqai came off the line in 2006, it created the crossover segment. Today it remains the benchmark for European customers, for its dynamic styling, exciting driving experience and innovative technology, commented Clin Lawther, Senior Vice President for Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management in Europe.

Besides expanding assembly at Sunderland, Nissan is also celebrating the 30th anniversary of its plant, which has grown to become the largest UK car factory of all-time. This is where one in three of all cars made in Britain rolls off the line and, most importantly, supports nearly 40,000 jobs.

Vehicles like the Qashqai are designed, engineered and manufactured in the United Kingdom and are available not just in Europe but exported to over 130 markets worldwide. It is also also assembled in St. Petersburg, Russia, and in the Dongfeng-Nissan Huadu plant in China.

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After the 2016 Formula 1 seasons opening Grand Prix, Red Bulls Daniel Ricciardo confessed his team is expecting a power unit upgrade from Renault by the seventh round.



That is the Canadian Grand Prix, which will take place in Montreal on June 12th.

During testing before the Australian GP, Renault believed they had found about half a second per lap, though compared to Mercedes and Ferrari the gap is quite sizable.

Ricciardo was asked by Autosport if he thought more performance could be extracted from the TAG Heuer-badged Renault unit.

I do, but were not talking a massive step yet. When youve already got x-hundred amount of horsepower and you get five or 10 extra, its not a world of difference. You dont really feel an extra kick when you put your foot down.

But I do feel like sort of top end, at the end of the straight, it just seems to run more, so it has a bit more legs in the last quarter of the straight.

What Ricciardo is referring to is exactly the type of thing that might keep you out of DRS range if youve got a Mercedes or a Ferrari closing in. Even though a car with a more powerful engine should always prevail, not losing your position on a certain lap can have major effects on how your race strategy will unfold.

Once we get to  at the moment were talking sort of Montreal  we should have a proper step. And then hopefully I get some whiplash and some good g-forces through my neck!

Even team principal Christian Horner agrees that Renault has made clear progress with their power unit, which ultimately was a pretty big disappointment last season.

The power unit has definitely made progress over the winter. There is still a long way to go but its great that, particularly in race conditions which is what we saw in testing, there has been progress in performance.

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A little documentary about a little local favourite is making waves in the film festival world.

The documentary features the food, the people and the heart of the Mad Mango Cafe in downtown Kelowna. Patricia Wong has been the owner and operator for more than 10 years.

Chelsea McEvoy and Isaac Balson have been fans of Mad Mango for years, but over the past year the two got an inspiring idea to tell the story of this little lunch location and the woman behind it.

The Mad Mango Film was released on YouTube on Friday and premiered at the Okanagan IndieFest, taking home both the best documentary and people's choice award.

We are feeling very blessed that Pat's story was able to be told to a packed house at the Paramount Theatre, says McEvoy.

It might be that place you walk by and you dont think anything of, but when you go in it, it is the place you have to eat if youre in Kelowna. its that feeling you get when you go inside, McEvoy told Castanet last year.

You can watch the full documentary above.
Photo: Castanet Staff

The Kelowna Fire Department responded to a 911 call reporting an electrical fire in the basement of a

home in the 800 block of Hollywood Road South.

Platoon Cpt. John Kelly said the first arriving officer reported there was smoke in the home, but no visible flames.

The smoke was traced to a power bar and computer desk in the basement, said Kelly, adding the fire was contained to the desk and electrical outlet.

Three engines, a rescue truck and a command vehicle with 15 personnel responded to the incident. There were no injuries to the owners or fire department personnel.

The Kelowna Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check your smoke alarms on a regular basis, said Kelly. They do save lives.
Photo: CTV Arvind Gupta

The release of uncensored details about the departure of a former University of British Columbia president was an honest mistake, says a new report.

Former B.C. Information and Privacy Commissioner David Loukidelis reviewed the university's conduct and policies after hidden attachments containing uncensored personal details about Arvind Gupta's abrupt resignation were released to the public in January.

The review determined that the attachments were left in because a step was missed when the documents were processed.

"The incident occurred because of a simple mistake," the report said.

"The disclosure was an accidental result of UBC's good-faith attempt to be open and transparent."

The report noted that the university has made changes in the wake of the incident on how it releases information, including implementing a checklist for access to information requests, revamping how embedded information is removed from documents and requiring a second staff member to check releases containing sensitive information.

Loukidelis recommended the school take extra care when preparing documents to be released online and look at whether additional resources are needed in the department that handles access to information requests.

The university responded to the report with a statement saying they accept the findings and have passed the report on to the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for review.

The statement also said the school will devote more staff resources to handle access to information requests.

UBC released 861 pages of documents in response to a series of Access to Information requests after Gupta abruptly relinquished his post last August.

Included were meeting agendas, receipts, emails and an agreement dated Aug. 6, 2015 that shows UBC agreed to top-up Gupta's $446,750 salary until Jan. 31, 2016, and that he would be given a year's leave of absence from Feb. 1, 2015 to Jan. 31, 2017, plus a $130,000 research grant.

Also included were emails showing UBC board of governors chair John Montalbano wanted to have a "confidential discussion, not captured on email'' with Gupta just days before board members received notice about a meeting where they would discuss the president's resignation.

Montalbano himself stepped down last October after an investigation into a professor's claims that she was intimidated after writing a blog post suggesting Gupta lost a "masculinity contest'' with the school's leadership.

But the documents did not reveal why Gupta left the position one year into a five year term.

The former president said in a statement that the documents were a "one-sided representation" of what happened in the months before he left.
Photo: CTV

A serial predator could be at large in the Lower Mainland.

Police are investigating a string of five incidents at the main UBC campus they suspect were committed by the same man.

Priya Adhikari and the other women who live in her all-female dormitory have taken to kicking the doors of washroom stalls open, in case theres a predator lurking inside them.

A suspicious man has been seen loitering near the dormitory and according to Adhikari he was trying to open every girls door, and he was trying to get inside the washroom.

Police believe it is the same man who violently attacked a woman on campus Friday.

The 20-year-old victim was walking on Wesbrook Mall when the man came out of a wooded area and grabbed her from behind.

He forced her to the ground and rubbed his midsection on her back in a sexual manner before she was able to fight him off.

In light of the numerous incidents, the university has increased the number of security officers on duty and added more patrols.

The university has also installed additional blue phones - which connect directly to campus security - since a string of unsolved sex assaults in 2013.

The installation of new security cameras was also proposed at that time, and university officials said cameras will be added to the blue phone kiosks this week.

- with files from CTV
Photo: CTV

Vancouver Police are investigating a shooting on Wall Street that sent one man to hospital.

Shortly after 2:30 Sunday, March 27, police were called to Wall and North Penticton Street after a man was shot. He was taken to hospital with a non-life-threatening injury.

The shooting appears targeted and police are attempting to piece together what led to the incident
Photo: Twitter - Kate Sitka

Oyster Jim says walking Vancouver Island's Wild Pacific Trail is a journey along the edge of the open Pacific Ocean, with its majesty, power and beauty in full view.

Many agree, as the eight-kilometre nature trail near Ucluelet has been ranked the top outdoor attraction in the province by TripAdvisor and among the travel ranking site's top 10 in Canada.

Waves as high as houses crash against the rocks at the iconic Amphitrite Point lighthouse, once toppled by a massive wave. Migrating grey whales are spotted from easy-access trail-viewing areas, and huge cedar trees, hundreds of years old, reach for the sky.

"For wildlife viewing and for just spectacular views, even when it's blowing and it's going, it's special," said Jim Martin, known locally as Oyster Jim and widely regarded as the person whose search for shoreline fishing holes spawned the trail's creation.

"When it's sunny and flat, it's special. It's a great experience every day," he said. "I call it streaming postcards."

Martin's can-do quest to build a world-class trail became the focus of the 2009 documentary "Walking on the Edge," narrated by Vancouver-born actor Jason Priestley.

Martin arrived in Ucluelet from Colorado in the late 1970s and his vision for an ocean-side trail eventually became a community endeavour, with the original 2.6-kilometre loop at the lighthouse opening in 1999. Martin can still be found today tweaking the trails and welcoming visitors.

"The thing that sets the Wild Pacific Trail apart is this is a totally unique section of shoreline unlike anywhere else," he said. "It fronts onto the open Pacific Ocean. It's not typical like a beach. This gives you all different kinds of vistas and everything is different and interesting. There might be tranquil pools. Then there will be a vertical cliff edge where the wave action is spectacular."

Ucluelet, a one-time logging- and fishing-dependent village of about 1,600 people, has embraced the trail as its ticket to tourism opportunities. Ucluelet is about 40 kilometres south of Tofino and near Pacific Rim National Park, one of the West Coast's most popular vacation spots.

"Ucluelet was never happy with tourists," said Martin. "In fact, they told the hippies to stay away. The reputation kind of made everybody turn right at the (Tofino-Ucluelet) junction because the beaches were to the right and Tofino was to the right."

But serious industry downturns in the 1990s saw Ucluelet embrace its natural assets and the Wild Pacific Trail, now managed by a community board, has become a prime attraction.

"And now, even though we're a small market, we're battling with the big guns," said Martin. "We've been TripAdvisor's top attraction in B.C."

Martin prides himself on the trail's easy accessibility and its free admission.

"The trail is built for everyone, children, all the way to people with walkers and in wheelchairs," he said, laughing. "It's wheelchair accessible as long as you have a big guy pushing you."

Martin said the gravel trail bed provides an accessible hiking surface and numerous entry and exit points allow people to hike over a period of days or do the full distance in one day.

"From Day 1, I told people this is a world treasure," Martin said. "This is an eighth wonder of the world."
Upgrades to one of B.C.s largest power generation facilities is now complete.

BC Hydro finished the $714 million project that added two new generating units at the Mica dam. With the addition of units five and six, the facility now has six generating units.

Bill Bennett, Minister of Energy and Mines said BC Hydro is making investments to secure the province's future electricity needs.

An important part of this is looking at existing facilities to see if they can be upgraded to add even more power to the system, said Bennett. The two new units give us access to more clean power for decades. BC Hydro has also recently added one more unit at Revelstoke dam and will add another one at Revelstoke in the coming years.

The Mica Dam produces power for more than 650,000 homes each year. The two new generating units increase Micas capacity by about 1,000 megawatts, bringing its total capacity to more than 2,805 megawatts. In the 1970s when the Mica built with only four units and space for two more to be added in the future.

Jessica McDonald, President and CEO, BC Hydro explained the Mica facility will continue to play an important role in meeting increased winter demand.

Our new high voltage Interior to Lower Mainland transmission line is bringing the power generated at Mica to our high load centres on the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, she said.

BC Hydro also recently upgraded the facilitys aging switch-gear equipment and constructed a new series capacitor station on the transmission line from Mica near Seymour Arm.

The Mica expansion and upgrade projects have created about 1,000 full time jobs for tradespeople in the region, to date.
If you have just started your journey in an online casino or are looking for a new site to play,...
India: Shree Cement set for more expansion

ICR Newsroom By 28 March 2016

Shree Cement, the fourth largest domestic cement company, is looking to ramp up capacity by another 10Mta in the coming three years. The cement producer has lined up a capital expenditure of INR60000m (US$900m) to construct three new clinker plants.

The first plant will be a 3Mta the line at Bazar-Bhatapara district, in Chhattisgarh. The company has recently won a bid for limestone reserves at the Karhi-Chandi area in the state to supply the plant with raw materials. This area has an estimated reserve of 166Mt with 80Mt cement-grade limestone.

Commissioning of these new plants will take Shree Cement's total clinker plant count to six, while six to seven grinding units will remain operational throughout this phase. With this, in three years, the cement maker's total capacity will increase to 33.6Mta from the current 23.6Mta.

"We will be bidding in at least 12 more limestone auctions and hope to win three to four of these. This will help us set up plants to increase our capacity," the company's managing director, H M Bangur told Business Standard.

During the July-December period this year, the company registered a net standalone profit of INR2315.9m (US$34.7m), while the profit margin fell to 6.52 per cent.

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Federal appeals court Judge Merrick Garland, right, shakes hands with President Barack Obama as he is introduced as Obama's nominee for the Supreme Court on March 16, 2016. (Pablo Martinez Monsivais / AP)

When the Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that the Affordable Care Act is constitutional, the decision dealt a major blow to the National Federation of Independent Business, the lead plaintiff in the case challenging President Obama's signature health-care law.

Although it lost, the small-business group considered its role in the landmark case, NFIB v. Sebelius, a milestone for the organization - a sign it could hold sway in the legal community as well as the lobbying world.

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So when Justice Antonin Scalia died last month, opening the door to a potential shakeup on the high court, the NFIB was ready.

The group, which lobbies for the interests of small businesses in Washington, is the first notable business association to openly oppose the nomination of Judge Merrick Garland, Obama's choice to replace Scalia. It marks the first time in its 73-year-old history that the NFIB, now under the leadership of new president Juanita Duggan, is weighing in on the Supreme Court nomination process.

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"Our experience in the Obamacare suit taught us an important lesson," Duggan said. "We can't sit on the sidelines. It's time for us to get into this game because we're going to be the plaintiff many times before the Supreme Court. That's where all our policy decisions seem to be made."

The NFIB announced its opposition to Garland in an op-ed last week in the Wall Street Journal. But it had been researching Garland and the other reported finalists for weeks. The research indicates Garland consistently rules in favor of regulatory agencies or unions, Duggan said.

The group will continue opposing Garland on social media and plans to issue a "scorecard" on his rulings next week.

"We're amplifying this message through all our platforms," Duggan said.

The partisan deadlock in Congress in recent years has heightened the importance of how federal agencies oversee a variety of industries. NFIB, like other lobbying powers, now views litigation against regulations it opposes as integral to its ability to represent its members in Washington.

The NFIB is a plaintiff in three cases that it views as particularly important and that may ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court.

One case challenges the Environmental Protection Agency's Waters of the United States rule, which expands the definition of which lakes, rivers and other bodies of water fall under the jurisdiction of the EPA or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Business and agriculture groups oppose the rule, saying it would greatly limit their ability to make minor changes to their land. There are numerous cases challenging the regulation that are pending in courts throughout the country, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit ruled last month that it has jurisdiction to hear them.

Another suit challenges the legality of the EPA's Clean Power Plan rule, which requires power plants to reduce emissions significantly by 2030 and which businesses say would drive up their energy costs. The Supreme Court last month ruled 5 to 4 to temporarily halt the rule as lawsuits challenging it proceed through the appeals court. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is expected to begin hearing arguments in June.

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A third suit challenges a National Labor Relations Board rule that businesses worry would speed up union elections. A federal court in Texas upheld the rule last year, but the NFIB appealed the ruling. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit has heard the case but has yet to issue a decision.

With these legal fights potentially landing at the Supreme Court, NFIB is eager to now play a major role in the lobbying battle over Garland and future nominees.

"The onus was on us this time," Duggan said. "It would've been an omission for us if we had not decided to do this."
Reporting from Washington  Most of Sen. Bernie Sanders' supporters in California say they expect that come November, Hillary Clinton will be elected president  and, by and large, they're OK with that.

While both Democratic camps prepare for a final battle in the state's June 7 primary, the latest USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times statewide poll found that just over half of Sanders' supporters said they expected Clinton to be the next president. About a third of Sanders' backers said they expected the Vermont senator to emerge the winner, and 12% said they thought Donald Trump would prevail.

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Close to 8 in 10 Sanders supporters said in the survey that they would vote for Clinton in a race against Trump, although many said they would do so reluctantly.

Those findings show the reality underlying the still-heated rhetoric of the Democratic primaries: By contrast with the civil war that divides Republicans, Democrats in the country's largest state have begun to coalesce behind their front-runner.

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In the primary race, Clinton holds a modest lead over Sanders, 45% to 37%, among all Democrats and independent voters eligible to vote. Her lead is slightly larger, 47% to 36%, among those most likely to vote. Either way, that's a significant problem for Sanders.

The poll was conducted before Sanders' sweep of three Western states  Alaska, Hawaii and Washington  on Saturday, but those victories don't change the electoral math much. Sanders would need not just a win in California, but something close to a landslide to overcome Clinton's large lead in delegates before the party's nominating convention in July.

Something else hasn't changed: If there's one blemish in the picture for Clinton, it's the persistently high percentage of voters who have an unfavorable image of her, 45% in the new poll.

Clinton's image in heavily Democratic California is more positive than it is in more Republican parts of the country; 52% of the state's surveyed voters see her favorably. She fares far better than Trump, her most likely opponent in November, who is viewed negatively by almost three-fourths of California voters.

A Democratic voter at a Washington state caucus on Saturday.In the California primary race, Hillary Clinton holds a modest lead over Bernie Sanders, 45% to 37%, among all Democrats and independent voters eligible to vote. (Elaine Thompson / Associated Press)

But her image with the public lags significantly behind other leading Democrats. That includes President Obama, whose popularity has risen, both statewide and nationally, in recent weeks. He is now seen favorably by 65% of the state's voters, the highest level since early in his tenure. Gov. Jerry Brown is viewed favorably by 57%. Both men are viewed negatively by about one-third of voters.

The large share of voters who have a negative view of her does not put Clinton in danger of losing California in a general election: She would defeat any of the Republican candidates handily in the state, which has formed the cornerstone of Democratic victories nationally ever since her husband's win in 1992. Against Trump, in particular, Clinton would win overwhelmingly, the poll indicated, carrying the state 59% to 28%.

But the negative impressions of so many Californians point toward the deeper problem she faces in the country and also to the likely tone of the fall campaign. A Clinton-Trump race, more than any other in recent decades, would feature two candidates who would start the campaign with large parts of the electorate deeply disenchanted with them. Given that, each side is likely to try to focus voters' attention on the other's flaws.

"Clinton's challenge is not one of persuasion, it's one of motivation," said Dan Schnur, director of USC's Jesse M. Unruh Institute of Politics. "She's not going to get Sanders supporters to fall in love with her," he added, but "the other way to motivate your base is to frighten them about the alternative. Against Donald Trump, that should be very doable."

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That's certainly the case for Gretta Whalen, a 32-year-old freelance writer and communications consultant from Los Angeles, who leans toward Sanders. Clinton, she said, "has been around for so long, and we know so much about her, and not all of it is positive." Sanders, by contrast, seems attractive, and his ideas feel new, even if "some of them are very pie in the sky and would be very difficult to get the rest of the country on board with."

But, she added, as she paused from feeding her newborn son, the contest is different "now that we're looking at a likely race against Donald Trump." She and her friends, most of whom back Sanders, "are all so shocked that we're in this place where Donald Trump is a serious contender for president," she said. Compared with past elections, this campaign "feels a little more surreal."

"I was much more excited about Bernie" earlier in the campaign season, she added. "We love him as a candidate. We also recognize that he's not the most realistic winner."

Just under 1 in 4 voters in the state have a negative image of both of the likely contestants. That group would hold its nose and side with Clinton over Trump, 38% to 23%, with a significant share of them saying they would not vote at all, the poll found.

Sercan Ersoy, a 33-year-old substitute teacher in Oakland, has much more negative feelings about Clinton than does Whalen. A former member of the Green Party who changed his registration in order to vote for Sanders in the primary, Ersoy feels Clinton is "too much of a war hawk" in addition to having too many ties to Wall Street. "I don't want to vote for her," he said.

But "if you ask me in late October," he added, "and there's a real possibility of a President Trump, I might say, 'OK. I'll vote for Hillary.'"

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This USC/L.A. Times poll was conducted March 16-23 by telephone, both cellphone and landline, among 1,503 registered voters in California, including 832 Democrats and non-party voters eligible to take part in the June primary. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points for the full sample and 3.7 percentage points for the Democratic primary sample. It was conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, a Democratic polling firm, and the Republican company American Viewpoint.

The poll found the race between Clinton and Sanders dividing along lines that have become familiar during nearly two months of primaries: Sanders overwhelmingly wins voters younger than 30; Clinton does better with older voters. She leads among women by 11 percentage points, among men by 5 points.

Clinton leads narrowly among white voters but has a much larger edge among blacks and Latinos. In a surprise, given her family's long-standing popularity with Asian voters, Clinton appears to be trailing Sanders with that group, although his edge, 43% to 35%, is within the poll's margin of error for such a subgroup.

Clinton's lead among minority voters is "much more muted" than her edge in previous contests in Texas and across the South, said pollster Anna Greenberg. That's largely a result of a generational divide, with Sanders leading among younger Latinos, much as he does among young white voters. The other minority groups are too small to allow a detailed breakdown by age.

The other significant division in the primary is by party. California's Democratic primary is open to registered Democrats as well as voters who decline to state a party. Clinton leads Sanders by 14 percentage points among registered Democrats; Sanders leads by 9 percentage points among the nonpartisan voters  again a pattern seen repeatedly in other states.

Among Sanders voters, 80% polled said they would vote for Clinton in November, although the share saying they would do so "reluctantly," 45%, outnumbers those who would do so "enthusiastically," 35%.

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About 1 in 8 Democratic primary voters surveyed said they would refuse to vote for Clinton if she is the nominee. That's half the level of rejection that Trump faces among Republican primary voters.

Among the Democratic primary voters most resistant to backing her in the fall are white men 65 and older, according to the poll. By contrast, only 4% of people who identified themselves as students said they would refuse to vote for Clinton  another indication that Sanders' core supporters are unlikely to reject her candidacy.

By 72% to 21%, Democratic primary voters said in the survey that they are excited about the prospect of voting for the first female president.

Sanders has centered his campaign around the belief that the U.S. economy is unfairly rigged by Wall Street and big corporations. Not surprisingly, a large majority of his voters share that view.

The poll asked people if they thought that in today's economy "everyone has a fair chance to get ahead in the long run if they work hard" or if "it's mainly just a few people at the top who have a chance to get ahead." By more than 2 to 1, Sanders' voters said that only those at the top could get ahead.

Clinton's supporters were more evenly divided, with 52% saying that everyone had a fair chance and 42% saying that only those at the top could get ahead. That reflected, in part, the feelings of Latinos, who are more likely than other Americans to say that hard work still pays off in the long run.

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Those who backed Clinton were also more likely than Sanders' backers to say that "when it comes to good jobs for American workers, our best years are ahead of us." More than 6 in 10 of Clinton's voters agreed with that statement, compared with just under half of Sanders'.

Neither group of Democratic voters was as pessimistic as Trump's supporters, however. A majority of them said that when it comes to good jobs, "America's best years are behind us."

david.lauter@latimes.com

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Trump leads Republican primary field

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Full coverage of the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll

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Amari Brown's parents Amber Hailey, second from left, and Antonio Brown, center, lead a July 6, 2015, peace march in remembrance of Amari in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. The 7-year-old was shot and killed over the holiday weekend. (Brian Nguyen, Chicago Tribune)

Responding to an afternoon call of a person with a gun on the West Side, Chicago police officers chased after Demond Coffee when he took off running last Aug. 17, according to police.

As the foot pursuit passed an elementary school in the 3900 block of West Wilcox Street, officers spotted Coffee remove a handgun from his waistband and toss it aside, according to an arrest report. The Glock was loaded with 15 live rounds, including one in the chamber, authorities said.

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The gun was just one of hundreds confiscated by Chicago police during arrests every year, many in the gang-infested West Garfield Park community where police said Coffee, a reputed member of the Four Corner Hustlers, sold drugs.

But this blue steel semi-automatic already had carved a swath of violence on Chicago's streets, the Tribune has learned.

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Demond Coffee, 28, shown in a 2015 Cook County sheriff's office booking mug, was arrested on charges of possessing a gun that was used to kill 7-year-old Amari Brown in July 2015. (Cook County sheriff's office)

As Coffee appeared last week at the Leighton Criminal Court Building on state weapons charges, federal agents arrested him on new charges linking his gun to one of Chicago's most memorable killings of 2015  the Fourth of July slaying of 7-year-old Amari Brown.

Prosecutors alleged in federal court that the weapon had been used in another shooting that left a 15-year-old boy wounded just five weeks later.

While Coffee has not been accused in either shooting, prosecutors argued during a detention hearing Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Cole that he should remain locked up as a danger to the community. Noting that the two shootings took place just weeks from Coffee's arrest, they said it was likely he had been in contact with those responsible for both crimes.

Cole ordered Coffee held without bail, records show.

A federal indictment unsealed last week charged Coffee with being a felon in possession of a handgun, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

Coffee's attorney, Jennifer Blagg, told the Tribune on Friday that the gunman in Amari's killing already had been charged and there was no allegation that Coffee had any involvement in the crime. Blagg said she may ask the judge to reconsider setting a bond as the case moves forward.

"I feel confident that when the facts of the case come out, they will show that my client isn't the type of person the federal government is portraying him to be," Blagg said.

Amari was shot and killed just before midnight on the Fourth of July in the 1100 block of North Harding Avenue in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. He was one of three people killed and 27 wounded over an eight-hour stretch that night.

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Police said the boy had been at his grandmother's house earlier in the day before spending time at his father's relatives' home on Harding at night. The 7-year-old was outside the home watching fireworks with a 26-year-old woman, his father and others when shots rang out.

The woman, Malerie Britton, later told the Tribune she had just talked to Amari, who was the son of a childhood friend, moments before the shots rang out. She said she'd told the soon-to-be second-grader he was getting big.

"That's because my birthday is coming up so fast," she said Amari told her. In the next moment, Britton felt a deep pain in her chest  like a hard punch  and fell backward into a fence. A gunshot had cut into her, passing through her breast.

"Somebody is shooting!" came a cry.

As people carried her into a nearby yard, Britton could see Amari lying on his back, bleeding on the sidewalk, his eyes open. He had been struck in the chest and died on the way to the hospital.

The day after the shooting, then-Chicago police Superintendent Garry McCarthy publicly chided Amari's father, Antonio Brown, alleging that he was the target and his gang ties were what led to his son's slaying. The father had been arrested dozens of times and was also a reputed member of the Four Corner Hustlers.

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Friends and family of 7-year-old Amari Brown hold a candlelight vigil at the home of his mom, Amber Hailey, on July 5, 2015. Amari died after being shot the previous night. (Brian Nguyen, Chicago Tribune) (Brian Nguyen, Chicago Tribune/Chicago Tribune)

On July 22, police arrested Rasheed Martin, 20, at a home in Superior, Wis., about 460 miles northwest of Chicago, and charged him with first-degree murder in Amari's killing, records show. Police said Martin may have been involved in an earlier dispute with the boy's father. After his arrest, Martin gave a video-recorded statement to Chicago detectives implicating himself and a second man in the killing, authorities said.

"He admitted, among other things, that he was armed with a gun and that he fired one shot," a Cook County prosecutor said during a bond hearing in July.

Martin is being held without bail in Cook County Jail, records show. No one else had been charged in Amari's killing.

On Aug. 7, just over a week after Martin's bond court appearance, the Glock pistol used to kill Amari was used to shoot a 15-year-old boy in the 3300 block of West Lexington Street in the Homan Square neighborhood on the West Side, authorities said. The victim was standing on the sidewalk when a dark-colored sedan passed and someone inside shot him in the abdomen, arm and hip, police said. A friend took him to Mount Sinai Hospital, where his condition was stabilized.

Court records show no one has been charged in that shooting.

On Aug. 17, Coffee was standing with another man, Demontre Enos, by Genevieve Melody Elementary School on West Wilcox Street when officers approached them about 1:30 p.m. because Enos matched a description from a call of a person with a gun, according to the police arrest report.

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The men took off running in different directions, with Enos leading police east on Monroe Street past children playing on the sidewalk and residents who were tending to their lawns, "causing them to move quickly out of the way to avoid injuries," according to the report. Enos was charged with misdemeanor reckless conduct and later convicted, reports show

Coffee, meanwhile, threw the gun as he fled down Wilcox, police said. He was arrested, but as officers were leading him into the Harrison District station, he "used his feet to push off the door" and broke free, leading to a brief foot chase, according to the report.

After he was again apprehended, Coffee was searched and police found more than $1,900 on him, all in small bills. A drug-sniffing dog detected the "scent of narcotics" on the money, the report stated.

When police inventoried the Glock, a trace of the serial number revealed it had been reported stolen last April 21 from Indianapolis, the arrest report stated. Indianapolis police could not provide further details on Friday.

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Court records show Coffee has a long rap sheet, including weapons offenses but no history of violent crimes. In 2011, he was convicted of unlawful use of a weapon and given probation, records show. That was followed by convictions for fleeing and eluding police and unlawfully possessing a handgun by a felon, netting him a sentence of three years in prison, authorities said.

Most recently, Coffee was charged in 2014 with marijuana possession in Berwyn, authorities said. The case was pending when he was arrested in the gun case in August, records show.

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Blagg said Coffee and his fiancee have a newborn son and he had been staying out of trouble recently. He had previously attended Southern Illinois University in Carbondale and was looking forward to taking classes at SAE Institute Chicago, a River North training center for aspiring music producers, she said.

jmeisner@tribpub.com

jgorner@tribpub.com

Twitter @jmetr22b

Twitter @JeremyGorner
Gov. Bruce Rauner is given a tour of Wilmette Junior High School, guided by several of the school's eighth-graders March 28, 2016. (Michael Tercha / Chicago Tribune)

Gov. Bruce Rauner has spent months trying to navigate the murky political waters created by the Republican presidential campaign, refusing to take sides and saying only that he'll support his party's eventual nominee.

But the first-term Republican governor, who has a habit of revealing his more candid side when he encounters a friendly audience, offered some thoughts on the race Monday as he talked with schoolchildren at a north suburban middle school.

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Asked by a student why young people should get involved in politics, Rauner riffed briefly on the presidential race, saying he was "horrified" by the rhetoric of the campaign.

"Democracy is hard, you know, and this presidential election, oh my goodness, I'm appalled by the rhetoric, it's appalling," Rauner said. "And it's ugly and it's nasty and it's weird, and just some of the statements that get made, I'm just, I'm horrified."

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The comment, made during a question-and-answer session with students in the library of Wilmette Junior High School, was the most insight Rauner has publicly offered on his views of the presidential campaign.

But minutes later, as he departed the assemblage of schoolchildren and took to a lectern under the glare of TV news cameras, Rauner clammed up.

Asked to explain what had "appalled" and "horrified" him, Rauner said: "It's probably self-evident," before launching into his standard retort that he's staying out of the race. The Republican contest has been a raucous affair fueled by the controversial candidacy of businessman and former reality TV star Donald Trump, who recently feuded with Texas Sen. Ted Cruz about their wives.

Rauner repeatedly has deflected inquiries about his opinions of the candidates and issues in the Republican nominating contest. Last week, after Trump notched a resounding victory in the March 15 Illinois primary, Rauner said he would support Trump as the party's nominee, but did so without even uttering the brash businessman's name.

"I will support the Republican Party's nominee for president," Rauner said. "I'll do everything I can to work with that nominee."

Reporters pressed for more: Even if the nominee is Trump?

Rauner repeated himself, saying he would support the party's nominee because "I am the leader of the Republican Party in Illinois."

As the state's top Republican official, Rauner is the standard-bearer for the party apparatus here. But Rauner also shares some pedigree with Trump. The governor is a wealthy businessman who rode into office with no prior political experience, and did so on a pledge to use boardroom tactics to shake up state government.

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For Rauner to weigh in during the party's ongoing nominating process would be to invite conflict and attention to Illinois, where he is occupied in a battle with ruling Democrats at the statehouse. Criticizing Trump directly risks Trump's wrath on Twitter or in a speech, where a single comment about the Illinois governor's job performance could set in motion a weekslong narrative.

To be clear, Rauner has not indicated if he agrees or disagrees with Trump or any of the other candidates in the GOP race. But many of his Republican allies in the legislature are lined up behind Ohio Gov. John Kasich. And at least two Republican congressmen, Rep. Bob Dold, of Kenilworth, and Rep. Adam Kinzinger, of Channahon, have said they don't support Trump.

On Monday, Rauner tried to stay on message with reporters after briefly deviating from it with the students.

"I don't really want to talk further about the presidential race," Rauner said. "I've made the comments  I've tried to stay out of it and I'm trying to stay impartial. I've not made any endorsements in it, I'm not being active in it. I'm going to let the process play out."

kgeiger@tribpub.com

Twitter @kimgeiger
A group of protesters held signs and chanted "Hey, hey! Ho, ho! Tammy Duckworth's got to go!" outside a Bronzeville diner on March 28, 2016, as Rep. Duckworth hosted a unity breakfast inside. (WGN-TV) (Chicago Tribune)

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Tammy Duckworth's campaign initially wasn't going to let reporters inside a post-primary "unity breakfast" in Bronzeville on Monday, then some protesters showed up.

It's unclear who organized the group of roughly three dozen mostly African-American people who gathered outside Pearl's Place chanting, waving signs and shouting "Shame on you!" at Democrats walking into the meeting. That's because the group's leaders declined to give their names or explain their affiliations.

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One man holding an anti-Duckworth sign asked a Tribune reporter whether Duckworth is a Democrat or a Republican, then said he expected to get paid for his time outside Pearl's "by the man who sponsored" the protest. Before he could explain further, other protesters nearby told him to be quiet. They declined to discuss why they were demonstrating or whether they supported incumbent Republican Sen. Mark Kirk.

There was at least one Kirk campaign staffer on hand outside Pearl's shooting video and speaking to protesters. But Kirk campaign manager Kevin Artl said the staffer was simply there as part of his regular duties tracking Duckworth at events and had nothing to do with the protest.

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Inside the locally famous soul food restaurant, Duckworth was flanked by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, U.S. Reps. Robin Kelly and Danny Davis, and Secretary of State Jesse White. When Duckworth was asked about the protesters, Preckwinkle interjected.

"Let me respond to that," Preckwinkle said. "Look, there are people out there who, I think, are supported by interests contrary to the Democratic Party.

"All of us who are good Democrats understand that we can have tough and hard-fought primaries, and after those primaries we come together," she added. "So those folks are a minority, and I think they are paid to do what they're doing."

Duckworth was holding the breakfast after easily winning the March 15 primary against two African-American candidates, former Chicago Urban League CEO Andrea Zopp and state Sen. Napoleon Harris of Harvey. As is common following intraparty contests, some backers of Zopp and Harris have been reluctant to transfer their support to Duckworth.

Last week, some African-American aldermen said they planned to skip the breakfast because Duckworth had not shown them she valued the needs of their communities and deserved their help for the fall election. They criticized her for skipping forums and debates in black Chicago neighborhoods during the primary campaign.

Of note, there were just two African-American aldermen in the restaurant Monday during the brief time reporters were allowed inside, out of the 17 who sit on the City Council.

Duckworth said she plans to reach out to African-American voters and party officials to show them she's a strong candidate who will look out for their interests.

"We have a long race in front of us," she said. "I have lots of time to demonstrate to all the communities in this state, and especially the African-American communities, that I'm on their side."

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jebyrne@tribpub.com

Twitter @_johnbyrne
Presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, waves to the crowd at the GOP caucus at the convention center in Wichita, Kan., on March 5, 2016. (Orlin Wagner / AP)

A petition seeking to allow firearms to be openly carried inside the arena for this summer's Republican National Convention is sparking debate, attracting tens of thousands of signatures in a matter of days. But is it for real? And who actually started it?

It's one of those 21st century mysteries that involves online petitions and the Twittersphere, against the backdrop of a presidential campaign that has been volatile and unpredictable.

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The petition was created on change.org last week, billing itself as an "open letter" asking the Republican National Committee, the National Rifle Association, GOP Chairman Reince Priebus, the three GOP remaining presidential candidates and Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland to allow firearms to be openly carried at the July convention.

The petition's creator was originally listed as Len Davies of Spokane, Washington  but was switched Monday to The Hyperationalist, several days after it claimed credit on a blog that has just one entry: the change.org petition. The Hyperationalist's Twitter account (https://twitter.com/hyperationalist) says it joined in March 2011, bears a picture of Abraham Lincoln as its profile photo and describes itself as "Speaking truth to stupid since ...well, since now."

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The petition slowly began picking up steam before really taking off over the weekend when it started to get some traction in the media. By mid-afternoon Monday, it had nearly 50,000 signatures. Those aren't historic numbers; some change.org petitions garner 500,000 or more, said Max Burns, the U.S. communications manager for the site. But he said "this was incredibly fast growing."

So is it a serious petition seeking to allow open carry inside the convention hall? For those passionate about their Second Amendment rights, the petition appeals to their belief that openly carrying a firearm wards off danger. For those who oppose it, it speaks to the fear of gun violence that takes place every day.

Burns doesn't have the answer, but said it doesn't really matter because it has sparked a conversation, lighting up change.org and Twitter with all sorts of commentary. Some called it a great idea to keep convention-goers safe; others consider it a call to arms for Second Amendment rights. Others voiced concerns about the prospect of gunfights breaking out inside the arena.

In the end it's likely to be only a theoretical question. The Secret Service, which is in charge of security at presidential conventions, says no dice. "Individuals determined to be carrying firearms will not be allowed past a predetermined outer perimeter checkpoint, regardless of whether they possess a ticket to the event," said Robert K. Hoback, a spokesman for the Secret Service.

An email sent to The Hyperationalist by the AP was not immediately answered. Its Twitter page takes swipes at conservatives, Republicans and most especially GOP presidential frontrunner Donald Trump.

Party spokeswoman Kirsten Kukowski made clear the party supports the Second Amendment but will defer to the Secret Service. Candidates Sen. Ted Cruz and Ohio Gov. John Kasich issued similar statements.

Trump, who supports making concealed carry permits valid in all 50 states, has not taken a position on the petition, saying he first wants to see its fine print.

Associated Press
Members of a civil society group light candles March 28, 2016, during a vigil in Karachi, Pakistan, for the victims of the suicide bombing a day earlier in Lahore. (Shakil Adil, AP)

LAHORE, Pakistan  In an emotional televised address, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif vowed Monday to hunt down and defeat the militants who have been carrying out attacks like the Easter bombing that targeted Christians and killed 72 people.

"We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan," Sharif said. "This is our resolve. This is the resolve of the 200 million people of Pakistan."

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As the country began three days of mourning after Sunday' suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore in a park crowded with families, Sharif said the army would forge ahead with a military operation on extremist hideouts and police will go after what he called the "cowards" who carried out the attack.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a breakaway Taliban faction that supports the Islamic State group, claimed responsibility and said it specifically targeted Christians.

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The bodies of those killed during an Easter Sunday bombing in a park in the eastern city of Lahore continued arriving at the hospital morgue early Monday, where worried friends and family also looked for and registered loved ones still missing. March 27, 2016. (AP) (Associated Press)

But most of those killed were Muslims who also had been in the popular park for the holiday. Many women and children were among the victims, and dozens of families held tearful funerals Monday for their slain relatives. At least 300 people were wounded.

Sharif, who canceled a visit to the United States to attend a nuclear summit, also warned extremists against using Islam to justify their violence in the overwhelmingly Muslim nation.

Pakistan has suffered a series of attacks in recent months, and Sharif said militants are hitting "soft targets" like playgrounds and schools because military and police operations are putting pressure on their operations.

Sharif met with security officials earlier in the day, and raids and dozens of arrests were carried out in eastern Punjab province, where several militant organizations are headquartered.

The prime minister also visited hospitals in Lahore where many of the injured were being treated. Sharif was born in the city, which is also the capital of Punjab province, his power base.

"It strengthened my resolve when I met the wounded people," he said in his address. "God willing, I will not sit idle until I bring smiles back on their faces."

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a government offensive and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis decried what he called the vile and abominable bombing against Christians and urged Pakistani authorities to "make every effort to restore security and serenity" in the country, particularly for religious minorities.

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In Pakistan's capital of Islamabad, Islamic extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings, demanding that authorities impose Sharia law. The army deployed paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

The leader of the protesters, Sarwat Ejaz Qadri told a local TV channel they would stay1 outside Parliament "until our demands are met." Hundreds were hunkered down for a long stay, chanting prayers, occasionally raising anti-government slogans and brandishing long sticks.

They were protesting the hanging last month of policeman Mumtaz Qadri. He was convicted for the 2011 murder of Gov. Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had also criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced draft legislation in Punjab province that outlaws violence against women.

Earlier this month, Sharif had officially recognized holidays celebrated by Pakistan's minority religions, including Easter and the Hindu festival of Holi.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told The Associated Press that along with striking at Christians celebrating Easter, the bombing also was meant to protest military operations in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year.

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But of the 72 dead from Sunday's attack, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, said Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. The rest have not been identified.

Shama Pervez, a widow who lost her 11-year-old son Sahil in the bombing, was inconsolable at his funeral. A fifth-grader at a Catholic school, he had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

In the Christian area of Youhanabad on the outskirts of Lahore, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children?" asked Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of Sunday's victims.

Pakistani rescuers use a stretcher to move a body from a bomb blast site in Lahore on March 27, 2016. (Arif Ali, AFP/Getty Images)

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed in the park, and all were Muslims. His 10-year-old nephew, Fahad Ali, lay wounded in a bed at home. He had lost his parents and a sister, and another two sisters also were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything to continue at school!" he cried.

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Forensic experts searched debris in the park. The bomb had been a crude device loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the victims for maximum damage, said counterterrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, a known militant recruiter.

Nobel peace prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, herself a survivor of a Taliban shooting, said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

White House spokesman Josh Earnest called the bombing "grotesque."

"The fact that you have an extremist organization targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," he said, also noting the high number of Muslims among the victims.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said targeting a park filled with children "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

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France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" with Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

Zahid Hussain, an expert on Pakistani militants, said the violence was a show of strength by religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

Pakistan's military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The army says the operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has killed more than 3,000 militants. In December 2014, the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in northwestern city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Hussain said the government has sent mixed signals to Islamic extremists. On one hand, it has allowed banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches. At the same time, it has hanged convicts like Qadri and promised to tackle honor killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," Hussain said. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say no to extremism once and for all."

Army chief Gen. Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage nonhumans to overrun our life and liberty."

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Punjab's government said it will give about $3,000 in compensation to the seriously wounded and $1,500 to those with minor injuries from the bombing.

Associated Press
Republican presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz speaks to a crowd in front of his bus at his campaign stop in Altoona, Wis., on March 28, 2016. (Dan Reiland / The Eau Claire Leader-Telegram via AP)

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz is challenging Donald Trump to debate him one-on-one in Wisconsin.

Cruz said Monday he and Trump should face off for two hours on Tuesday night in Milwaukee, instead of appearing separately at a town hall to be broadcast on CNN.

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The three-hour event is also to include Ohio Gov. John Kasich. Each of the candidates is to appear for about an hour and take questions from the audience.

But Cruz says the event should be retooled into a debate between him and Trump.

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Trump spokeswoman Hope Hicks did not immediately return an email seeking comment.

Trump has declined similar proposals from Cruz, a former collegiate debate champion, to square off head-to-head.

Wisconsin Gov. Walker to announce presidential endorsement

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker plans to announce his endorsement in the Republican presidential race on Tuesday, a week before the state's primary.

Meanwhile, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz on Monday heaped praise on his former rival, calling his fight against unions inspiring.

Walker said Monday he will make public whom he's backing on a Milwaukee talk radio show whose conservative host has already endorsed Cruz. Walker, whose short-lived run for president ended in September, had previously said he would back whatever candidate is chosen as the GOP nominee, but he's been sending signals he intends to back Cruz.

Walker said last week that Cruz was the only candidate who had a chance at beating front-runner Donald Trump. When Walker ended his presidential bid, he called on others to join him so it would be easier to take on Trump.

"I am a big, big fan of Scott Walker's," Cruz told reporters before a campaign stop in central Wisconsin. "He is a terrific governor and strong conservative. ... Of course, I would welcome Scott Walker's support."

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Cruz pointed to Walker's career-defining push against public-sector unions in 2011, a fight that Walker won and that led to an effort to recall him from office. Walker won that election in 2012, making him the first governor to defeat such an effort, raising his national profile in advance of his failed presidential run.

Cruz said Walker's fight with the unions showed that special interests could be defeated.

"It inspired people all over the country, it inspired millions, it inspired me," Cruz said. "It is that spirit, that fight, that's at the heart of what our campaign is all about."

When he was running for president, Walker argued that the next president should be a governor with executive experience. But Ohio Gov. John Kasich, while campaigning last week in Wisconsin, said he had no idea whom Walker was going to back.

Associated Press
Donald Trump is planning to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin on Tuesday, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable GOP race.

But rival Ted Cruz has gotten a head-start on the contest, racking up influential endorsements, campaigning in key regions and supported by bullish advertising campaign.

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A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would narrow Trump's path to the nomination, heap pressure on the billionaire to sweep the remaining winner-take-all primaries this spring, and increase the chances of a contested party convention in July.

"The results in Wisconsin will impact significantly the primaries to come," Cruz told The Associated Press after a rally in Oshkosh Friday. "Wisconsin, I believe, will play a critical role continuing to unify Republicans behind our campaign. The only way to beat Donald Trump is with unity."

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Cruz is positioning himself to win Wisconsin, next Tuesday's only contest, and the first primary since he began collecting the backing of establishment Republicans, such as former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, adamant about eliminating Trump.

As Cruz campaigned across the state ahead of the Easter holiday, he was following a winning roadmap drawn by Wisconsin governor  and former 2016 presidential hopeful  Scott Walker in 2010, up Wisconsin's rural and working-class midsection the same demographic that has driven Trump's success thus far.

Cruz has mined the GOP vote-rich swath of farms and factories from south-central Wisconsin, up the Fox River Valley's corridor of paper mills, small towns  among them, some of the most swing-prone counties in the country.

The Fox River Valley, suburban Milwaukee and the rural counties outside Madison are home to 75 percent of Wisconsin's most reliable Republican primary voters, said Keith Gilkes, a veteran Walker adviser who worked for his 2010 GOP primary campaign.

"How Gov. Walker won was basically by winning the lower Fox Valley down through the Southeast," Gilkes said. "That's the holy grail demographically for the Republican Party in Wisconsin."

Ohio Gov. John Kasich, in Wisconsin Monday, avoided any mention of his GOP opponents and instead, painting himself as the only candidate who can defeat Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton in the general election. Polls show Kasich trailing both Trump and Cruz in Wisconsin and he trails them in delegates so far.

Trump, by contrast, has slightly fewer than half of the Republican delegates allocated in races past, short of the majority needed to clinch the nomination before the party's national convention this summer. Cruz has more than a third of the delegates, but is focused equally on stopping Trump and uniting most of the party against him.

If Cruz wins most of the 42 delegates  which, in Wisconsin, are allocated on the basis of state and congressional district winners  then the remaining winner-take-all contests, in Delaware, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey and North Dakota could determine the future of this competition. A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would likely require Trump to win those five contests to avoid clawing for the nomination at the party's national convention in Cleveland.

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With that in mind, Cruz touted his plans to improve the economy during a stop at the Altoona Family Restaurant in western Wisconsin Monday, where hundreds of his supporters spilled out the doors to hear him speak.

Cruz said his "number one priority" as president would be jobs and economic growth, a shift in emphasis from earlier primary states. While promising to create millions of jobs and increase wages, Cruz pivoted to attack Trump on the issue.

"Donald Trump's problem is he has no idea how to bring jobs back to America," he told reporters before heading into the restaurant. "He has no policy solutions to get that done."

Cruz rebuked Trump's criticism of his wife, Heidi Cruz, a detour from policy to personal that received sharp condemnation from some voters.

Truda Swanson of Appleton, an undecided Republican primary voter, said Trump's personal criticism of Cruz's wife in the lead-up to the primary reinforced her opposition to Trump.

"It's absolutely not why I'm against Trump. I'm against Trump for lots of things leading up to this, including his treatment of women," the 40-year-old health care worker said.

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It reinforced warning signs for Trump in Wisconsin, who led in a February poll by Marquette University's Law School, but is now viewed unfavorably by 45 percent of Wisconsin Republicans, according to the same poll.

Cruz's campaign was airing about $500,000 in advertising over the final two weeks before the primary. Trump, by contrast, just started advertising in the state, reserving about $420,000 in radio and television ads slated to run through the April 5 primary, according to political advertising tracker Kantar Media.

"Ted Cruz has a real opportunity to win the state, in a way that would be pretty resounding," said Mark Graul, an unaffiliated Republican strategist from Green Bay.

Associated Press
During a recent town hall in Columbus, Ohio, Sen. Bernie Sanders said the unthinkable. At least, you would have thought he did, judging by the response of several Democratic operatives. Sanders was deemed "extremely disgraceful" by Donna Brazile, vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, and "a political calculating fraud" by Brad Woodhouse, a former DNC communications director.

What was his crime? The old-fashioned Rooseveltian New Dealer had answered a question about why he is running as a Democrat instead of as an independent with typical candor: "In terms of media coverage, you had to run within the Democratic Party," he observed, adding that he couldn't raise money outside the major two-party process.

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As one of the more successful third-party presidential candidates in recent U.S. history, I know firsthand the obstacles Sanders might have faced if he had run as an independent. The reality is that Sanders is right, and the backlash against him reflects all too well what two-party tyranny can do to a more-than-nominal third-party challenger. This is especially true of candidates like Sanders, who  despite advancing political views similar to the classic Democratic New Deal platform  now sits well to the left of the party's corporatist, hawkish establishment.

I chose to run on the Green Party line in the 2000 presidential election with a pretty clear idea of what I was in for. I had run a limited write-in campaign in New Hampshire and Massachusetts in 1992 and had accepted the Green nomination in 1996.

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My interest in moving politics past the two-party duopoly began long before I first ran for president in 1996. Historically, many major reform movements (abolition, women's suffrage, labor) have come out of smaller parties that never won national elections, starting with the anti-slavery Liberty Party in 1840. Several different parties for women's suffrage followed. Then came parties representing farmers' struggles against railroads and banks, a movement that peaked in 1892 with the Populist Party. Labor parties  which fought for fair labor standards, the right to organize and progressive taxation  rose to prominence in the 20th century, along with the Socialist Party of America, formed in 1901. But when the Communist Party got on the national ballot after World War I, it drew widespread venom, and the two major parties began to raise barriers to ballot access and undertake other efforts to prevent these small parties from competing in elections. Admiring these reform movements and critical of the Democratic Party's decay, I knew what it would mean to run as a third-party candidate.

Just appearing on the ballot is a challenge for independent candidates. While any Democrat or Republican who wins their party's nomination is guaranteed a place on general-election ballots nationwide, smaller parties must, in many states, petition election officials to be listed. And that is a delicate process, easy for the major parties to disrupt. Their operatives have a number of tools at their disposal to knock third-party candidates off the ballot, render their campaigns broke, and harass and ostracize them.

In 2004, Democratic operatives were especially zealous in their efforts against my campaign. They hired private investigators to harass my campaign's petition circulators in their homes in Ohio and Oregon and falsely threatened them with criminal prosecution for fake names that saboteurs had signed on their petitions, according to sworn affidavits from the workers and letters containing threats which were presented in court. Our petitions were also disqualified on arbitrary grounds: In Ohio, complaints submitted in court and to the office of the Secretary of State by groups of Democratic voters led officials there to invalidate our petitions. They disqualified hundreds of signatures on one list, for instance, because of a discrepancy involving the petition circulator's signature. In Oregon, Democratic Secretary of State Bill Bradbury retroactively applied certain rules in a way that suddenly our previously compliant petitions invalid.

Democrats and their allies (some later reimbursed by the DNC, according to both campaign finance reports and a party official in Maine who testified under oath) enlisted more than 90 lawyers from more than 50 law firms to file 29 complaints against my campaign in 18 states and with the Federal Election Commission for the express purpose of using the cost and delay of litigation to drain our resources. "We wanted to neutralize his campaign by forcing him to spend money and resources defending these things," operative Toby Moffett told The Washington Post in 2004.

Democrats falsely accused my campaign of fraud in state after state. In Pennsylvania, they forced us off the ballot after challenging more than 30,000 signatures on spurious technical grounds. My running mate, Peter Camejo, and I were ordered to pay more than $81,000 in litigation costs the plaintiffs, a group of Democratic voters, said they incurred. In an effort to collect, their law firm, Reed Smith, which the DNC also hired in that cycle, froze my personal bank accounts at several banks for eight years. A criminal prosecution by the state attorney general later revealed that Pennsylvania House Democrats had, illegally at taxpayer expense, prepared the complaints against our campaign, and several people were convicted of related felonies. A federal court in Pennsylvania ultimately struck down the state law used against me that had led to order that I pay the litigation costs.. But Reed Smith was still allowed to keep $34,000 it withdrew from my accounts, because state courts wouldn't let me present evidence that could have permitted me to recover the money.

With the exception of this handful of felony convictions, most of the partisans who fought to keep me from running got away with it.

Given another chance, I still wouldn't run as a Democrat; I continue to disagree with the party's platform and direction. Sanders is different, though: However he's appeared on Vermont ballots in the past, he's really a progressive Democrat. He has caucused with the party in Congress for decades, even if its corporatist core has abandoned his New Deal priorities. This is perhaps why he has been able to make it so remarkably far.

But as the backlash against his Ohio comments demonstrates, the party's patience with Sanders is wearing thin. With today's dominant Democrats favoring hawkish foreign policy and the entitlements of Wall Street, Sanders is seen as a Trojan horse. Cries of "get out," already sounding in some Democratic quarters, will become increasingly fervid, notwithstanding Sanders's years of support for Democratic causes and his pledge to endorse the Party's eventual nominee.

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By running as a Democrat, Sanders declined to become a complete political masochist, and he avoided exposing his campaign to immediate annihilation by partisan hacks. Because if he had run as an independent, he would have faced only one question daily in the media, as I did: "Do you see yourself as a spoiler?" The implication being, of course, that he had no chance of winning. His popular agenda would have been totally ignored by a horse-race-obsessed mass media, which would have latched on instead to a narrative in which Sanders was unfairly hurting Hillary Clinton's chances against whichever Republican wound up with the other major-party nomination, as if any Democrat is automatically entitled to the votes of progressives.

Knowing that this is the fate of most independent candidates, as he put it simply in Ohio, Sanders made the right choice to campaign as a Democrat. Should he win the nomination, he will have no ballot-access obstacles to overcome in the fall. He gets to participate in televised primary debates, widely covered and commented on by the mainstream media. His scandal-free record and appealing message have resonated among younger Democratic and independent voters who are the future of progressive politics. A loyal base that believes he has a viable chance to win has allowed him to smash through the ritual of catering to fat-cat donors and super PACs to amass a highly credible campaign treasury.

Collecting nearly $150 million so far at an average donation of $27 is already a historic breakthrough for future honest candidates to emulate. In the longer run, proving that outside cash register politics can compete in the same manner may be one of the two most important legacies of the Sanders campaign.

The other is that Sanders has demonstrated the relative weakness of the corporate Democrats and their major loss of trust among the people, especially the young. "It's sad and ironic how undemocratic the party has become," says Bill Curry, a former White House counselor on domestic policy to President Bill Clinton and now a writer for Salon. He compares the party to "a closely held PAC used mostly to advance the careers of political insiders and the interests of corporate donors."

I believe that should Clinton overcome Sanders and claim the Democratic nomination, the party will continue to be the champion of war and Wall Street, little changed by the primary competition. But perhaps after the comparative success of Sanders' campaign, this state of affairs will invigorate more courageous candidates to follow his lead in challenging establishment, commercialized politics.

Washington Post

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Ralph Nader is a consumer advocate and author of "Unstoppable: The Emerging Left-Right Alliance to Dismantle the Corporate State."
Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley responds to statements made by Spencer Collier, the former head of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Wednesday, March 23, 2016, in Montgomery, Ala. Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley admitted on Wednesday that he made inappropriate remarks to a top female staffer, but he denied accusations that he had a physical affair. (Julie Bennett, AL.com via AP)

Sounding a lot like Bill Clinton, the beleaguered governor of Alabama, Robert Bentley, called a news conference on Wednesday to say in no uncertain terms that he did not have sex with that woman.

Accused of having an illicit relationship with an aide, Rebekah Caldwell Mason, he stopped short of wagging his finger. But, in another Clinton parallel, there is readily available evidence that contradicts his denials: Text messages and audio recordings made public by the Alabama Media Group and the governor's just-fired head of law enforcement, Spencer Collier.

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In a separate press conference, Collier, who said Bentley was like a father to him, contradicted the governor's statement that although he may have made inappropriate remarks to a staffer, he had not participated in a "physical, sexual relationship." Hogwash is more or less what Collier said to that. He claimed that he and another official had uncovered explicit texts between Bentley and Mason, his closest and highest-paid adviser. There also are tapes made by "the family," which earlier had tried to determine whether Bentley was cheating on his wife.

Knock out politicians for having affairs, and you might not have enough left to vote for.

The public has made an uneasy peace with the foibles of its politicians in the post-Clinton world. Character, as it's now assessed, includes sexual conduct but that isn't weighed so heavily that it blocks out everything else. Knock out politicians for having affairs, and you might not have enough left to vote for. Lying is considered a lesser-included offense because no one willingly admits to infidelity. Politicians survive  former Gov. Mark Sanford of Appalachian Trail fame (elected to Congress), Sen. David Vitter (who admitted to dalliances with prostitutes won re-election once, but not his bid to become Louisiana governor), and Clinton himself (shamed, impeached, but not thrown out of office).

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The lines that remain are drawn at the office door or at illegality. Those who've run afoul of the current ethos crossed one or the other: Nevada Sen. John Ensign (the office) and former Gov. Eliot Spitzer (prostitutes). Former New York Congressman Anthony Weiner fits no category except utter stupidity.

The transcript of the tapes suggests that Bentley falls into both the Ensign (Mason, said Collier, was a "de facto governor") and Weiner classifications. Bentley said, "If we are going to do what we did the other day, we are going to have to lock the door." And "When I stand behind you, and I put my arms around you, and I put my hands on your breasts, and I put my hands (muffled) and just pull you real close, I love that, too." " Baby, I love you. I know we are in a difficult situation. Unless I make things as normal as possible here, it is going to be hell."

In this Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014 file photo, Republican Gov. Robert Bentley listens to a phone call as Rebekah Mason, right, announces his win for Alabama governor, in Montgomery, Ala. (Brynn Anderson, AP)

It's a certain kind of hell now as Bentley enters the first stage of a scandal. When asked about the tapes on Wednesday, he repeatedly acknowledged that his words were "inappropriate" but that's as far as it went. He explained that the love he spoke of was the love he felt for all his staff, adding, almost comically, "some more than others."

Mason is married. Bentley no longer has a spouse to stand by his side. He and his wife of 50 years divorced after he won re-election in 2014. The other lasting law of these scandals is that the other woman suffers no matter what happens to the principal, Monica Lewinsky being exhibit No. 1. Mason, however, is not going gently into someone else's scandal. The whole thing, she said in a statement, is a result of "clear, demonstrated gender bias" by Collier. "There is no way that man would have said what he did today about another man."

But Collier begs to differ: At one time, Mason was on the state payroll but how she gets paid her salary of almost $500,000 now is foggy. That could be the smoking gun. However she's paid, Mason is almost always by the governor's side. Bentley is going after Collier as if his former law-enforcement chief were his only problem and the tapes did not exist. Collier was fired, Bentley's supporters say, only after an internal review found "possible misuse of state money." Collier says he was fired because he confronted Bentley about the affair and because he refused to lie before the grand jury about a friend of Bentley's in an ethics inquiry.

The governor is sticking with his denial that it was all words  and misinterpreted ones at that. Even so, under the "in the office" rule, he's still vulnerable and the digging has just begun. The popular governor may survive depending on what your definition of survive is. To those who watched him at the capitol on Wednesday, it was questionable whether the first deacon of the First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa and 73-year-old grandfather survived humiliation.

Bloomberg View

Margaret Carlson is a Bloomberg View columnist.
Roy W. Lightfoot has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a March 2014 crash. (Kane County State's Attorney / Handout)

An Aurora man is going to prison for causing a crash that injured three children while driving with a blood alcohol content more than three times the legal limit.

Roy W. Lightfoot, 41, of the 500 block of Hammond Avenue, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the March 2014 crash in which the red 1990 Cadillac Fleetwood he was driving east on Illinois Avenue jumped the raised center median just east of Lake Street and crashed head-on into a gray 2009 Chevrolet Aveo driving westbound on Illinois.

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All four Aveo occupants  an adult driver and three children, all younger than 12  were taken to an Aurora hospital for treatment after the collision, which occurred at about 8:20 p.m. March 10, 2014.

One child who had been riding in the back seat of the Aveo needed more than 20 staples to close a head wound. The other two children had minor injuries. The Aveo driver sustained a concussion and a minor spinal fracture. They have since all recovered from their injuries.

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Lightfoot's blood-alcohol concentration shortly after the crash was .294, more than triple the legal limit of .08, police said.

In January, Lightfoot pleaded guilty to the charges of aggravated drunken driving causing great bodily harm, a class 4 felony; and driving while his license was revoked, a class 4 felony.

Lightfoot's driver's license was revoked in 1994 after he was convicted of a previous drunken driving charge. Since then, he has been cited nine times, including the most recent incident, for driving without a license.

During his recent sentencing hearing, Kane County Judge James C. Hallock admonished Lightfoot for flaunting the law by driving without a license in a car with a vanity plate that reads, "ROYSCAD."

Lightfoot must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence in accordance with Illinois state law. He was given credit for at least 471 days already spent in Kane County Jail.

hleone@tribpub.com
With the scope and penalties of Chinas social credit system being further clarified in 2021, legal and regulatory compliance has become more important than...
Science and technology associations in China should better serve science workers, the national strategy of innovation-driven development as well as the government and the general public through reforms, according to a document published Sunday.

The General Office of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee recently issued a plan for deepening reforms in science and technology associations nationwide.

The document urged science and technology associations to uphold CPC's leadership in the reforms, and called on those associations to build closer links with science workers and the general public, and also called for better management of societies and administrative organs under the associations.

The plan proposed to recruit science and technology associations in major enterprises and universities as group members of China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), and encouraged societies of related disciplines to form coalitions as a way of sharing information and resources among the members.

It also introduced measures targeting improved public services offered by science and technology associations, including organizing academic activities and promoting commercialization of scientific research findings.

"Through reforms, science and technology associations nationwide should develop themselves into elite think tanks that help the government with rolling out strategies, plans and policies for science and technology development," the CAST said in a statement.
A business associate of a popular practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine has been arrested in connection with what California authorities say was the horrific slaying of the herbalist, his wife and the couple's 5-year-old daughter.

Pierre Haobsh, 27, of Oceanside, was taken into custody at gunpoint at a gas station in San Diego County, Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bob Brown said.

Investigators with an arrest warrant had been following a red Lexus that belonged to him, Brown said. A loaded gun and property belonging to one of the victims was found inside the car, the sheriff said.

Deputies who went to check on the welfare of 57-year-old Weidong "Henry" Han on Wednesday found the bodies of the physician, his 29-year-old wife, Huijie "Jenni" Yu, and the couple's daughter Emily at the family's multimillion-dollar home on the outskirts of Santa Barbara.

Their bodies were found shot, wrapped in plastic and duct-taped in the garage, a sheriff's statement said. They had last been seen on Thursday, the night before they were found.

Brown said investigators were still trying to determine why the family was killed, but they believe Haobsh was recently involved in a business deal with Han and financial gain could have been involved.

"This investigation is far from over," Brown said. "It is complex and ongoing."

Two business associates of Han went to his home after he failed to show up for a meeting  something they told the authorities was highly uncharacteristic of him. The associates called authorities when they found the front door open and the family's cars parked outside.

The authorities did not say what led them from the palatial two-story home that sits on 2.8 hectares surrounded by avocado trees to the Oceanside area  where Haobsh was arrested  more than 270 kilometers to the south.

Haobsh is a US citizen, the authorities said, but few other details about him were released.

The killings shocked Santa Barbara, where Han, who owned and operated the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, was a popular figure.

The couple's daughter was a kindergarten student at Foothill Elementary School, where counselors were made available to her classmates.

Han had owned and operated the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic since 1991, according to the clinic's website. Public records show he was a licensed acupuncturist.

A biography on his website says he earned degrees in Oriental and Western medicine from a Beijing university in 1982, graduating at the top of his class.
A major police crackdown at the city's intersections over the weekend saw officers being attacked by angry commuters and more than 40,000 motorists, cyclists and pedestrians being hit with penalties.

Police haul away a luxury car that was illegally parked in Huangpu District.[Photo/Shanghai Daily]

There were more than 21,000 cases of illegal parking and 3,000 violations committed by pedestrians and people on bikes. Ten people were detained for obstructing law enforcement.

It marked the beginning of a three-month enforcement campaign to reduce traffic congestion across the city.

Police in Huangpu District said that yesterday morning alone, over 500 offenders were issued tickets.

At some intersections on Nanjing Road W., a busy downtown commercial street, three or four policemen were patrolling during the day, giving warnings or handing out tickets to violators.

Over the weekend several traffic offenders were detained for attacking police officers when approached.

A woman surnamed Wu who rode an e-bike through a red light at the intersection of Jinzhong Road and Xiehe Road in Changning District on Saturday morning refused to stop when asked to and kicked a policeman in the leg. She was detained and fined 50 yuan (US$8).

That afternoon, in Hongkou District, a man surnamed Zhu, who committed an infraction at the intersection of Wusong Road and Wujin Road, fled the scene. The officer injured his face and hands when he tried to stop the vehicle. The man, who did not have a license, turned himself into police.

The biggest violators of all were e-bike riders, said police.

"There are no lanes for bikes, but that's no excuse for violations, because they can ride along nearby streets," said a policeman assigned to an intersection on Taixing Road.

A policeman on Shimen No. 1 Road said the violations were "rampant."

"Many violators seem to be either unaware of the rules or are just used to ignoring them," he said.

A policewoman told Shanghai Daily: "Most violations here are from food delivery people who are always in a hurry and say they fear getting complaints from customers."

One e-bike rider almost ran into a parked taxi on Nanjing Road W. yesterday afternoon, said police.

In Pudong, a food delivery person was fined 20 yuan for riding in the vehicle lane on Century Avenue toward Pudong Road S. on Saturday morning.

In Yangpu District, a young woman surnamed Peng was caught riding a motorcycle without a plate on Saturday morning. Police said she narrowly avoided being detained after refusing to cooperate and laying on the ground. She was fined 200 yuan.

Over 50 violations were punished on Saturday morning alone on Huaxia Road E. toward Miaojing Road in Chuansha Town, and in most cases e-bike riders were caught riding in the wrong direction or had an illegal passenger, Pudong police said.

Police also targeted illegal parking, a major cause of traffic congestion. Officers in Huangpu District deployed 21 tow trucks, including two advanced vehicles that can haul away luxury cars, which normally cannot be moved by conventional tow trucks because their electronic parking brakes lock the four wheels. Police towed away eight cars on Sunday morning alone.

A blue Porsche Cayenne that was illegally parked on Luxiangyuan Road near Renmin Road and blocking traffic was towed away, and a Mercedes-Benz parked near the Fairmont Peace Hotel on Nanjing Road E. was taken away way a few minutes later.

Huangpu police vowed that it will continue to focus on illegal parking over the next few months, cracking down at Metro stations, large shopping centers, major transportation hubs and hospitals.

Meanwhile, Yangpu police said they will soon use unmarked cars to take video footage of traffic violations to use as evidence.
Trending on the Internet brings you fame, and can mean great fortune too.

Jiang Yilei

A 12 million yuan (US$1.84 million) investment in a female vblogger from Shanghai has captured the imagination of China's Internet community.

Jiang Yilei, who is known online as Papi, is a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama and began posting her homemade videos on social networks in August last year.

She quickly gained a huge following, and her quirky videos caught the attention, and the investment, of Luo Zhenyu, a media commentator with his own huge following.

Papi's humorous yet critical monologues on issues that affect people in China have been shared across China's social networks, such as WeChat and Weibo, where she has 8 million followers.

Each video can easily get 100,000 views.

Her popularity and ensuing great fortune have not gone unnoticed by the public.

Comments on Weibo range from: "Her hilarious commentaries on pop culture not only get the point, but are also thought-provoking" to "It must take her a while to shoot even the simplest of scenes. She deserves the money."

Zhang Yi, CEO of iiMedia Research, said: "Because they have so many followers, Internet sensations are an attractive addition to any promotion. That's why people are keen to invest."

However, such online celebrities have their detractors.

"There have been sensations like this before. They usually don't last very long," was another comment on Weibo. "Only those backed by professional agents can really make their way in this business."

And Shen Yang, professor at Tsinghua University, expressed concern about Papi "selling out." "It remains to be seen whether Papi can stick to her own style after the investment." he said.

"Whether her commercial value continues to rise is also questionable," Shen added, recalling past Internet sensations Fengjie and Shi Hengxia who did not last long in the spotlight.

Still, a lot of people believe in Internet celebrities.

"Attitudes regarding the Internet have changed," commented a WeChat user. "That means people are now willing to pay for what they love to see on the Internet, especially if those people do or say things that resonate with them," he added.

Luo is convinced the future is bright after his investment in Papi. They are set to appear together in commercials in the near future.

"The sky is the limit for Papi," he said.

Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.
Officials with an academic background are set to become a mainstay of political life in China, experts said after the central leadership appointed a senior economist as the head of Henan province over the weekend.

Xie Fuzhan, who has won Sun Yefang Economics Prizethe top national prize for economicstwice, was named as Party chief of Henan on Saturday, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Xie had been the provincial governor for three years before he replaced the 66-year-old Guo Gengmao in the Party role. Ministry-level officials generally retire at age 65.

Xie has a bachelor's degree in computer science and a master's in industrial automation, as well as a national-level technological award.

He started his political career in the 1990s at the Development Research Center of the State Council. During his 10 years there, he spent time in the United States as a visiting scholar.

Zhu Lijia, a professor of public administration at the Chinese Academy of Governance, welcomed the appointment, saying Xie is not the first person with a strong academic background to be appointed as a high-ranking official in China over the past few years.

On Feb 26, Ning Jizhe, a well-known government think tank economist, was named the new head of the National Bureau of Statistics. He has also been a deputy chief of the National Development and Reform Commission, China's top economic planning body, since August last year.

In January 2015, Chen Jining, who was president of Tsinghua University and a professor at its School of Environment, was named head of the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

Then, 10 months later, Chen Yulu, a professor of economics and the then-president of Renmin University of China, was appointed deputy governor of the People's Bank of China.

"Appointing officials with fabulous educational and academic backgrounds is a way of facing the current complex economic situation at home and abroad, as well as effectively solving thorny problems brought up by the country's reforms," Zhu said on Sunday.

"The more knowledge officials have, such as in law, economics and politics, the better the policies will be," he said, adding that it had become a trend to name as officials people "who have achieved in the professional sphere and have abilities in handling difficulties brought by reforms".

Yang Weidong, another law professor at the academy, agreed but said that putting knowledge and academic studies into practice is an important lesson that some officials must learn after they take office.

In addition to professional achievements, all these appointed officials have administrative work experience and know how to manage or govern a university or department, Yang said.

"All in all, they understand how to transfer their knowledge to policies. It is this ability that the central government most needs," he said.

Bio

Xie Fuzhan, a native of Central China's Hubei province, was born in August 1954.He started working for the Development Research Center of the State Council in 1986 and became head of the central government think tank in 1995.He became the head of the National Bureau of Statistics in 2006.

Two years later, he was named the director of the Research Office of the State Council. He was named deputy Party chief of Henan province in March 2013 and was appointed governor of the province one month later.

Xie won the top national prize for economics in 1991 and 2001, as well as being awarded the second prize in the National Award for Progress in Science and Technology in 1996.
"When are you going to get married and have children?" That was a question Liu Na, a female graduate in economics from a university in Tianjin constantly faced in job interviews.

Liu ranked among the top in her class but got far fewer job offers than male graduates. The few available interviews were often tarnished by questions she found embarrassing because of her gender.

To attract employer interest, Liu expressed her willingness to be an exemplary employee along with her academic qualifications, noting she is "hard-working, can take extra work and can undertake business trips". But companies seemed more concerned about her personal life.

Almost all male students have secured jobs and most go to banks, accounting firms or big companies, while only 20 percent of female graduates got offers, said Liu.

"I only expect the monthly salary to be 3,000 ($460) to 4,000 yuan," she added.

Job fair only for women

China has a number of laws and regulations to protect gender equality in employment or career promotions, but on the ground female students frequently land in disadvantageous positions.

The employment future is daunting for many women, according to experts, following China's adoption of a two-child policy.

Liang Chunzao, vice chairwoman of the Women's Federation in Tianjin, said some female students get married and have a child even before graduation, and highlight that as an advantage on their resumes.

But the two-child policy means the tactic doesn't sell well since some companies are still worried maternity leave will increase costs, Liang added.

The federation organized a job fair exclusively for women ahead of March 8, International Women's Day, attracting lines of applicants who waited in front of the venue for an hour before it started.

The number of female students surpassed 5,000 and went beyond organizer expectations, Liang said.

Students came from 20 universities in Tianjin, illustrating the pressures they face in finding jobs.

Calls for respect for women

Liu Na said she felt quite stressed at the job fair because of so many competitors.

Youyi Department Store owned by Tianjin's famous Yishang Group, one of China's top 500 companies, received 300 applicants in an hour for three positions with a promised monthly salary of 4,500 yuan.

A human resources manager for a small company at the fair said seven women in his company fell pregnant last year and caused a major impact on the business.

Liu was not alone feeling frustrated in the difficult job-seeking process. Another graduate, Li Ying, said women have less chance than men even if they have the same qualifications.

Xiao Shuhu, director of the graduate career center at Tianjin University, said it's harder for female students to find jobs, especially during the economic slowdown.

It was noted that female students are not inferior to males at the famous engineering university but that bias against women still exist in some companies.

Both Liang and Xiao have called for more respect and support for women in their careers.
Rural women are getting divorced in record numbers, something observers say is due to the empowerment and experience they acquire when working far from home.

A record number of women from rural China are filing for divorce. In most cases, their marriages broke down after they migrated to the city in search of work but found love or self-empowerment instead.

Guo Feifei is among them.

After leaving home in rural Anhui province as a 21-year-old to work at an electronics factory in Shanghai in 2010, she ended up realizing she no longer wanted to remain married to the man she wed from a neighboring village back home.

She drew a line under her five-year marriage two years ago.

"I blamed myself when the idea of divorce first occurred to me, and I questioned myself repeatedly about whether leaving home for work was a good idea," said Guo, a native of Anhui. "But, eventually, I realized I was renewed by city life and I had found myself living in a different world from my ex-husband."

Statistics from the people's court in Songzi city, Hubei province, are typical. They show that three in four of the more than 700 divorce lawsuits filed there in 2014 were initiated by wives, and more than 90 percent of those involved women who had migrated to big cities for workand often husbands who stayed behind in the village.

Shi Renbing, head of the Population Research Institute at Wuhan-based Huazhong University of Science and Technology, said in a report examing the phenomenon that similar patterns were being played out in rural regions of Henan and Sichuan provinces as well.

Sociologists believe the women get new experiences in the cities they move to and an economic independence that means many of them start to pay more attention to their own wellbeing and aspirations than they had ever done before.

"Usually, rural women are deprived of the right to make choices and decisions, starting in their childhoods," said Lin Zi, founder of a psychological consultancy in Shanghai.

"When they enter an open environment in a leading city, their self-awareness and inner power explode to push them to make changes," Lin said.

"It seems as if this phenomenon is not just about marriage but is really about choosing who they want to be."

In the case of Guo, she grew up with two younger brothers, who were favored by her parents: It was the boys who usually got most of the attention from the extended family, both in terms of finance and love, she said.

"One of my brothers and I suffered from asthma in childhood. I was often pinched by my mother when I could not stop myself coughing at night but my brother always escaped that," she said.

Guo believes that women are treated as inferior in rural areas, especially the most economically disadvantaged places, and she says such thinking is still mainstream.

But that all changed when she went to Shanghai.

Two years after arriving in the city, when she went to work as a nanny, the differences she had begun to notice really hit home.

"After joining Shanghai families, I found that women in big cities can receive a good education and enjoy equal opportunities in many aspects of life, and they can be independent and live a colorful life," she said. "That is totally different to what happened to usa girl in a rural area is an accessory that is neglected by parents, her husband and the whole family."

The longer she stayed in Shanghai, the less she wanted to return to her old life. Today, she has no intention of leaving.

"I win the trust and favor of my employers and I can earn as much as a college graduate if I work hard. I'm satisfied with my life here," she said.

Guo's ex-husband used to say the option of going to the city and earning good money wasn't open to him because there were no suitable jobs but Guo believes he could have made a go of city life if he had been willing to take on tough jobs, such as those in the construction field or even by working as a courier. She feels as if she had more get-up-and-go than he did. Academics tend to agree.

"Women, who are used to receiving less care from the family and fighting for opportunities by themselves since childhood are more independent and proactive when it comes to work," said Xue Yali, a researcher with the Family Research Center under the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.

But Lin added that, despite the difference in attitude, the type of work that migrant women can find does make it easier for them to integrate into city life.

"Men are mainly involved in heavy industries and work hard and often feel isolated and so many often can't wait to return home as soon as possible," she said. "However, women in many cases participate in housekeeping, which is not as grueling, and it also gives them a chance to see the real life of local families and they want to be a part of that."

Guo's ex-husband, meanwhile, thinks their problems lay in the fact that his wife was too ambitious and aggressive.

"We lived a life that was above average in our village but she was unsatisfied," he said. "I wanted a woman to take care of the family rather than have an adventure outside."

Multiple factors

Such breakups are often the result of many things going wrong over a long period of time. Marriage breakdowns can involve violence, both physical and verbal, and economic control, said Chen Yandi, founder of Hand-In-Hand, a non-governmental organization dedicated to protecting the rights of female workers in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.

Qiu Yan from rural Jiangsu province tied the knot with her ex-husband in 2006 at the age of 22. Not long after the marriage, her introverted partner became addicted to gambling and Qiu said she endured his beatings when he lost.

"Moreover, my mother-in-law's attitude toward me was as if she was venting all her spite from decades of bitterness that she had got from being bullied by her own mother-in-law. That home was like a prison for me," said Qiu.

She, too, went to Shanghai and worked in a hotel while her husband drove an illegal cab in Nanjing.

While working at the hotel, she drew the attention of a security guard who also worked there and the couple hit it off and eventually began dating.

Lin, the consultant, said many women strongly desire independence and freedom from abusive relationships once given the chance to change their lives.

"They believe whatever the new life will be like, it won't be worse than the previous one," Lin said.

Qiu divorced her ex-husband in 2012 and moved in with her new partner.

"In rural regions, usually we don't have the right to choose our marriages, so, when they end, the relationship collapses more easily," Qiu said.

Easy option

Xiao Xue (not her real name) grew up in a rural area in Chongqing municipality where she was engaged to a man her own age.

She never dreamed she would be bold enough to end their engagement, but Xiao left home for Guangzhou at age 18 in 2008 and worked as a waitress in a karaoke bar.

She loved the glitzy city life and, when her mother died in an accident, she felt as if there was no reason to leave the city.

"There was nothing left that made me want to return to the village," she said. Instead, she met the owner of a barbershop and began working there.

"He was 20 years older than me and he was divorced," said Xiao.

She said she saw the prospect of marrying the barber as a once-in-a-lifetime chance to change her destiny and leave the countryside forever.

"Everybody pursues a better life and the nation is advocating the urbanization of the rural areas. Why wouldn't I stay in the city?" said Xiao, who got married last year and became manager of the barbershop.

For many without the option of improving themselves through education, marriage is seen as a fast-track way for women to secure their place in the city. Traditionally in China, women seek a man with a higher social standing than themselves anyway, so finding a husband in the city seems to fit with that, sociologists say.

But marrying or remarrying is far from a perfect route to hanging on to the city life.

"It will take someone at least 10 years to obtain a permanent residence permit for a big city like Beijing or Shanghai, which means women will not be able to gain equal access to social welfare as other citizens within this period," Xue, the researcher, said. "And in the meantime, there are abundant variables in a marriage during those 10 years."

She said that women who stay in the rural areas and find ways to be fully involved in the running of their families and in the upbringing of their children will earn the respect of their families.

Social experts point out that the flow of women out of rural areas and into the big cities and the resulting pressures that the migration puts on marriages will not dry up until the underlying issuethe urban-rural divideis addressed.
China will require its armed forces to open more barracks to the public this year, the flagship newspaper of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) reported on Monday.

The move is part of a greater effort to promote national defence education among residents to strengthen their patriotism and sense of identity with the army, the PLA Daily said.

Various "Open Day" activities are already planned this year, offering visitors a glimpse of barracks life at nationwide military camps. Students from Tsinghua University will have an opportunity to visit PLA Navy bases.

Moreover, students from the western areas will be invited to participate in a summer camp at a barracks of the PLA Rocket Force which was established last December.

China will launch a defense education campaign as it marks the 95th anniversary of the establishment of the Communist Party of China and the 80th anniversary of the end of the Long March, a forced expedition that eventually laid an important foundation for the Communist victory in the civil war, this year.
The mystery of where the critically endangered Chinese sturgeons go to spawn may soon be solved, as a group of ichthyologists plans to attach electronic tags to them.

Last Friday, six members of the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences went to a section of the Yangtze River downstream of Hubei Provinces Gezhouba Dam  the only known spawning ground of the species  to try to catch some of the rare fish.

An ultrasonic transmitter will be attached to any sturgeon caught and it will be tracked at 30 monitoring sites along the river.

Born in the Yangtze, the sturgeons migrate to the sea like salmon, before returning to their birthplaces to spawn. Previously, they returned to the Jinsha River, a major tributary of the Yangtze, but with the construction of the Gezhouba Dam in 1981, the migration route was cut off. However, they found a new spawning site, somewhere downstream of the dam.

For more than 20 years, researchers found spawning sturgeons in autumn and winter downstream of the dam, but not one has been seen since 2013. Researchers found signs of hope last April when they discovered a large school of juvenile sturgeons in the Yangtze estuary.

"This means they may have changed their spawning site to somewhere we know nothing about. We must find them and protect them as a matter of urgency," said Wei Qiwei, one of the lead researchers.

Sturgeons have been bred in captivity since 2009 and released into the river every year, but the number returning to spawn dwindled from 10,000 a year in the 1970s to just over 2,000 in the 1980s. Recent estimates put their numbers below 200.

The decline is believed to be the result of many factors: boat traffic, over-fishing, pollution, and the effects of the Gezhouba Dam.

Research has been complicated by restrictions on catching wild sturgeons introduced in 2008 in an attempt to stave off extinction. But this year the Ministry of Agriculture gave the academy clearance to collect and tag the fish.

The duration of the project will depend on how quickly the team can catch a significant number of sturgeons. "The tags should help us figure out their migration routes and new spawning grounds. It is a race against time to save this living fossil from oblivion," said academy researcher Wang Chengyou.

The Chinese sturgeon has existed for more than 140 million years and is a protected species.

"The state of this species is an important barometer of the whole river ecosystem," Wei said.
Elephant poaching in northern Tanzania's wildlife sanctuary, Tarangire National Park, has gone down for the past two years, a senior park official said on Sunday.

Park tourism officer Geoffrey Mboma said that killing of elephants in the park for their tusks has been largely contained, and between July 2014 to early this year, only four elephants were killed by suspected poachers.

Located in the southeast of Lake Manyara on the Tarangire River, the park is home to nearly 5,000 elephants.

"Indiscriminate killing of animals for their trophies has also been contained due to intensified patrol and involvement of the local communities in conservation," said Mboma.

Stephano Qolli, chief park warden, however, expressed concern that increased human activities may affect the wildlife migration, and result in the drop of animals in the park.

He said the animal pathways, mainly linking Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Park, have been turned into human settlements while livestock grazing inside the park is now common despite being prohibited.

"Once there is an ecological disturbance increase in human activities, the animals would simply migrate to other areas or get killed when they wonder into the villages," he said.

He called on the Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa) and the relevant ministries to coordinate to address invasion of protected areas by livestock keepers and farmers, saying it defeated the whole purpose of conservation.

Tarangire is the sixth largest national park in Tanzania. The name of the park originates from the Tarangire River that crosses through the park, the only source of water for wild animals during dry seasons.
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UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday called for seizing the current available opportunity to attain peace in war-torn Syria, the state-run Petra news agency reported.

The UN chief made the remarks at a meeting with Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour in Jordan, in which he said in spite of limited resources in Jordan and its small economy, the country has been taking positive stances regarding the regional developments.

"We are working in a collaborate form with Jordan to help support the country's needs to provide services to the Syrian refugees," said the UN chief.

Ban said the United Nations will continue to support Jordan to alleviate the pressure imposed by the influx of a large number of Syrian refugees to the country.

"The current support from the international community is insufficient to meet the needs of Syrian refugees in Jordan. The donor countries need to do more for Jordan and for the refugees," said the UN official, stressing the need for continued efforts to reach a political solution in Syria.

On the Palestinian issue, the UN chief stressed on the need for exerting efforts to reach a tangible and lasting solution, stressing the key role Jordan plays in preserving the sacred holy sites in Jerusalem.

The Jordanian premier reviewed the challenges Jordan is facing in light of hosting some 1.3 million Syrians refugees. He said the pressure is mounting on Jordan amidst shortage of international community's support.
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Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu on Sunday called for increased cooperation between Turkey and Jordan to uproot terrorism which seeks to tarnish the image of Islam, the state-run Petra news agency reported.

Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour (R, front) welcomes his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu (L, front) in Amman, Jordan, March 27, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

Jordan and Turkey face common challenges, especially when it comes to hosting large number of Syrian refugees who are fleeing the violence in their country and thus placing pressure on neighboring countries, the Turkish prime minister said during a meeting with Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour in Amman Sunday.

Jordan and Turkey face similar challenges due to their geographic locations, said Davutoglu. "Jordan's stability and security are crucial for the stability of the entire region," he added..

Voicing strong condemnation of terrorist attacks that hit Turkey lately, the Jordanian premier said these acts do not represent Muslims at all and that they have harmed the noble values of Islam, such as tolerance, peace and rationalism.

There is a need for increased collaboration as the region is facing unprecedented challenges, said Ensour at the meeting.

The two also discussed means to boost bilateral trade and conducting joint investments in various areas.
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The General Command of the Syrian Army said the defeat of the Islamic State (IS) in the ancient city of Palmyra is the start of a further collapse of the militant group, the state news agency SANA said on Sunday.

A Syrian soldier holds the Syrian flag while walking at a battlefield in the countryside of Homs province, central Syria, on March 19, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

"Recapturing Palmyra is a strong blow to the IS terrorists and will usher in a further collapse of the morale of that terror group and the beginning of its defeat and collapse," the Syrian army said in a statement.

Retaking Palmyra, the statement added, "is a sign that our army in cooperation with the friends is the only power capable of eradicating and rooting out terrorism."

The military statement said the recapture of the ancient city took place with the help of the Russian and Syrian air force.

Meanwhile, the state-run Alekhbaria said the three-week battles in Palmyra have killed over 600 IS militants, while the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the troops have killed over 400 militants.

Activists also said the battles killed 180 Syrian soldiers.

Meanwhile, a military source told Xinhua that the IS withdrew from the city under the heavy attack and shelling by the Syrian army.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the IS militants pulled out toward the town of Sukhneh, east of the central province of Homs.

The ancient city of Palmyra is booby-trapped, said the source, adding that bomb squads have started the work of defusing the explosives.

The city fell to the IS militants last May and the Syrian army started a broad offensive to recapture it several days ago.

Since capturing it last May, the IS group destroyed the city's military prison and several Islamic tombs. It also put on public executions of soldiers and people accused of working for the government.

Palmyra contains the monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centers of the ancient world.

Syria has many prehistoric, Greek, Byzantine and Islamic heritages. Before the crisis, Syria had attracted many multinational archaeological missions coming to search for new clues of historical facts on the development of civilizations.
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Afghan government forces mounted pressure against Taliban militants in the northern Baghlan province, killing a shadow district governor on Sunday.

"The security forces launched a cleanup operation in Koro valley of Dushi district on Saturday. As a result, a Taliban shadow district governor Mullah Jan Mohammad was killed on Sunday morning," Abdul Satar Bariz, governor of Baghlan province, told media.

Jan Mohammad had organized roadside bombings and targeted security personnel, Bariz said, adding that Jan Mohammad's elimination is regarded as a major blow to the Taliban fighters in Baghlan province.

Taliban haven't commented on the news.
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China's "Belt and Road" initiative will be given a huge boost when President Xi Jinping embarks on his maiden visit to the Czech Republic on Monday.

The two countries, though geographically apart, enjoy a traditional friendship that has kept strengthening over time.

For Chinese born in the 1970s and 1980s, the little mole in "Krtek," the first foreign cartoon series introduced to China, is a most pleasant childhood memory. Bedrich Smetana's symphonic cycle "Ma Vlast" and Jaroslav Hasek's "The Good Soldier Svejk" are also familiar masterpieces in China.

However, the country remains mysterious for many in China.

The upcoming visit, the first state visit by a Chinese president since the two countries established diplomatic ties 67 years ago, indicates that the Central and Eastern European nation will play a role in China's global strategy and the bilateral ties will develop.

For China, the Czech Republic, with gross domestic product (GDP) per capita of nearly 20,000 U.S. dollars, is a partner with great potential.

China is looking to cooperate with the Czech Republic in technology, in major industrial sectors such as sustainable energy, chemical, and machinery, while the Czech Republic is interested in China's high-speed rail, nuclear power and other infrastructure experience as well as capital flow.

Currently, the Czech Republic is the second biggest trading partner of China in the Central and Eastern European region, and China has been the Czech Republic's largest trading partner outside the European Union. In 2015, two-way trade volume topped US$11 billion.

Although a small country, with a population of about 10 million, the Czech Republic has a decisive role in Central and Eastern Europe concerning its geographic location and economic strength.

If the two countries tested the potential of economic cooperation and developed a sustainable model under the framework of the "Belt and Road" Initiative, it would set an example for other countries and become a powerful engine in China's push in the region.

The "Belt and Road" initiative, put forward and promoted by China, eyes an open and smooth channel of trade, capital and cooperation across the Eurasian continent. Central and Eastern Europe holds the key to the European end of this channel, while the 16 countries in this region take up nearly one fourth of all countries along the "Belt and Road".

China has invested heavily in boosting cooperation in the region. Heads of governments from China and 16 Central and Eastern Europe nations have met annually since 2012, with several cooperation outlines reached.

In June last year, China inked a memorandum of understanding on promoting the "Belt and Road" initiative with Hungary, followed by five cooperation documents with Poland, Serbia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Slovakia in November.

In December, a consortium of Chinese companies led by China Railway started to build a railway between Budapest, Hungary and Belgrade, Serbia, a major project to showcase the dynamics of the "Belt and Road" initiative.

Through closer economic cooperation with these countries, China aims to develop its European strategy.

China-EU relations are at historical best. By further synergizing development strategies and enhancing communication and coordination in the international arena, China and the EU will effectively tap the unprecedented historic opportunities now presented to them and make new progress in their comprehensive strategic partnership.
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Tanzanian President John Magufuli on Sunday appealed to Tanzanians to work hard in order to enable the east African nation to lessen foreign donor dependence.

The head of state was speaking at a special Easter mass at the Azania Front Lutheran Church in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam.

"Tanzanians can stop relying on conditional loans from foreign donors if they cultivate a culture of working hard," said Magufuli.

Since he took power in November 2015, Magufuli has taken a number of austerity measures aimed at cutting down government spending and boosting government revenue collection.

He said these measures, including banning foreign travels for civil servants and enhancing tax collection, were aimed at improving provision of social services like free education, and lessening donor dependence.

In February 2015, the Minister for Finance and Planning, Phillip Mpango, told Parliament that the government intended to cut donor dependence to three percent in the next budget from the current 6.4 percent.

He said the reduced dependence would be compensated by increasing domestic tax revenue by 15 percent, borrowing commercially, cutting wasteful spending, and reviewing tax exemptions.
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A military aircraft landed on Monday in the airbase of Palmyra, the first since government troops recaptured the city from Islamic State (IS) militants, Syrian TV reported.

The Syrian air force plane landed at the airbase east of Palmyra, one day after the resumption of full control over the ancient city.

The seizure of the millennia-old caravan oasis city followed three weeks of fighting against IS militants by government troops backed by Russian air force.

Meanwhile, bomb squads were still dismantling the explosive devices planted by the IS terror group in Palmyra.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered help in defusing the explosives in Palmyra.

A day earlier, Putin congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on recovering Palmyra, according to the Syrian state news agency, SANA.

SANA said Putin, whose air force played a crucial role in supporting the Syrian army, congratulated Assad by phone on liberating Palmyra from the grips of the IS militant group. Putin promised continued Russian support to Syria's army.

Assad, for his part, said the Syrian army's determination and the "efficient" support of Russia's air force were behind the recovery of Palmyra.

The Syrian Army's General Command said that defeating the IS in Palmyra is just the beginning of an anticipated domino effect leading to the militant group's total collapse.

"Recapturing Palmyra dealt IS a strong blow and will most certainly destroy the group's morale, thereby launching its final collapse," the Syrian army said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the state-run Alekhbaria news agency said the three-week battle for Palmyra killed over 600 IS militants, whereas the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the troops killed over 400 militants and that 180 government troops lost their lives in the fighting.

The IS retreated toward the town of Sukhneh, east of the central province of Homs, a military source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.

Last May, Palmyra fell to the IS, which destroyed the city's military prison along with several Islamic tombs. It also publicly executed soldiers and individuals accused of working for the government.

Palmyra contains monumental ruins of a great city that was once one of the world's most important cultural centers.

Before the onset of the Syria crisis five years ago, Syria, endowed with prehistoric Greek, Byzantine and Islamic heritage, used to attract numerous multinational archaeological missions seeking new clues and investigating historical facts concerning the development of civilizations.
Chinese tourists stand in a queue to get VAT refund at London Heathrow Airport Terminal 3. [Photo/China Daily]

Time-consuming procedure, hidden fees dent Britain's image as shopping destination

Tourism experts and overseas visitors, including those from China, have criticized the United Kingdom's tax-refund system for being too complex and time-consuming.

The system, in place since 1995, allows tourists from outside the European Union to claim back valued-added tax on any purchases made in the country upon departure. Yet critics argue that it threatens the UK's bid to become a major shopping destination.

"The poor VAT refund experience, as well as hidden fees, certainly decreases Chinese travelers' satisfaction about their UK travel and lowers the UK image as a destination," said Yang Jingjing, a lecturer on tourism development at the University of Surrey.

According to the rules, non-EU residents who buy goods in the UK can apply for a VAT refund when they leave the country. In theory, this involves filling out a form and presenting it with receipts to a refund booth, like those at the airport. In practice, however, the procedure can be time-consuming, proving an extra burden for passengers who already need to pass through lengthy security checks.

The complexities of the procedure, the number of companies that operate refund programs, and long lines at airport counters mean many tourists are either losing out or being charged what some say are exorbitant fees.

Chen Lizhi, a recent Chinese graduate of Loughborough University in the East Midlands, said that she spent 4,000 pounds ($5,680) on luxury bags, clothes and skin care products during a London shopping trip, paying about 700 pounds in VAT.

"I ended up receiving a refund of just 368 pounds," she added. "I didn't expect there'd be an additional handling fee at the airport counter, as a big chunk had already been taken out at the time of the purchase. Also, the currency exchange rate at the refund desk is low compared with high-street rates.

"I may hesitate to shop again in London as the cost of getting a refund is too high."

To qualify for a VAT refund, tourists have to spend a minimum amount, which varies from retailer to retailer. At the point of sale, foreign customers can ask for a refund form and the retailer and/or the VAT refund operator will charge a service fee. Rates vary depending on the sum and the operator.

The main refund operators are Global Blue, Premier Tax Free, Tax Free Worldwide and Innova Tax Free, while companies such as Travelex, Moneycorp and International Currency Exchange act as agents to process the refunds and handle currency exchanges.

"I'm very confused by the different rates charged by the retailer and the VAT refund operators," said Qian Sujia, a frequent visitor to the UK from Hangzhou. "As a tourist, I can't do much, but I'd appreciate it if someone could provide a clear table for what will be charged."
A man works in a factory in Dalian, Liaoning province, Oct 13, 2015. [Photo/VCG]

Cost is high from over-reliance on heavy industry with too many smokestack industries and mines and too few private firms

Editor's Note: Now that the Chinese government has adopted its growth strategy for this year and the nation's five-year plan from 2016 to 2020, we have decided to publish a regular Policy Review Page to brief our readers about what the policies are and what they include, their underlining realities and political considerations. In this edition, we take a look at the challenging conditions in some of China's northern and northeastern provinces, and at the central officials' attitude toward China's capital outflow and the possible measures they may adopt should the outflow become so large it threatens the economy's overall health.

Overseas commentators sometimes wonder how China has maintained a high economic growth rate for more than three decades without encountering a crisis. But the fact is China's economy has encountered various crises, one after another, in its regions.

One example is the sluggish economies of its northeastern provinces. In 2004, the central government vowed to rejuvenate Northeast China's economy. But the northeastern region still lags behind other regions of China when it comes to private enterprises and opening-up to the global market.

An investigative report by China Economic Times says the northeastern region's symptoms are evident in some northern provinces too. All of them have too many smokestack industries and mines, and too few private and services enterprises.

On the country's 2015 GDP growth rate ranking list, Shanxi, Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Jilin and Hebei provinces, and the Inner Mongolia autonomous region occupied the bottom six positions among 31 provincial-level regions. Their economic structures have common features such as over-reliance on resource-intensive and heavy industries.

China Economic Times sent teams of journalists to probe deeper into the phenomenon, and they found that Gansu province and the Ningxia Hui autonomous region also had similar economic structures.

"We have one city built on crude-oil mining and four others on coal mining," says Chen Yongchang, head of the official economic advisory committee of Heilongjiang province. "The energy industry accounts for 60 percent of our provincial GDP and its problems drag our economy down."

The city built on crude-oil mining he is referring to is Daqing, where the GDP growth rate was minus 4.3 percent in the first three quarters of 2015, and still falling.

Things are even worse in Liaoning province. From January to August 2015, the profits of its cement industry, one of its pillar industries, dropped 145.3 percent.

Over-reliance on resource-intensive industries makes the economies of these provinces and regions rather vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices. In Shanxi, "you can never talk about its economy without mentioning coal", says Chen Guowei, who heads industrial economy research at the provincial Development Research Center.
Zhong Shanshan, chairman of Nongfu Spring, is interrupted by a Beijing Times reporter as the two argue about water standards during a news conference in Beijing on Monday. [Zou Hong / China Daily]

A high-profile case in which a bottled-water producer accused a Beijing newspaper of defamation was heard at Beijing Chaoyang District People's Court on Friday.

Nongfu Spring, one of China's bottled-water giants, argued with the Beijing Times for more than half a year, claiming the newspaper intentionally and systematically ran 76 "fake" stories from April 10 to May 7 in order to tarnish its image.

On April 28, the company, based in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, filed suit against the paper in the capital's No 2 Intermediate People's Court, saying the media had imposed "propagandistic violence" against it and asking for 60 million yuan ($9.7 million) as compensation.

Later, in Chaoyang District People's Court, the newspaper countercharged the company with damaging its reputation while claiming that the enterprise was following standards laxer than those for tap water when manufacturing its bottled-water products.

The producer then increased its compensation demand to 200 million yuan.

On May 6, Zhong Shanshan, chairman of Nongfu Spring, said the company had adopted both national standards and provincial requirements in Zhejiang, and that the national standards are mandatory for every bottled-water company, which is why they were not printed on its labels.

Zhong added that in case there is a discrepancy between the two standards, his company follows the stricter one.

The giant also announced it was closing its branch in the capital, and its dispute with the newspaper became white-hot in a news conference on the same day.

Chaoyang court finally merged the two cases to try to resolve the conflict.

At Friday's hearing, the newspaper's representatives provided more than 20 bottles of water, saying all of them followed the national standard except Nongfu, which followed the provincial standard.

The newspaper's lawyers, Zhang Bin and Xie Guanbin, said during the hearing that before publishing the stories, the paper contacted more than 10 water specialists to ensure that the reports were accurate.

Apart from Beijing Times, other media, including People's Daily, China Central Television and Xinhua News Agency, had published or broadcast similar stories about Nongfu, the lawyers said.

"What we question is why the company followed the local water standard, not its product's quality. In other words, what we doubted is the disordered water standard in our country," Zhang said. "The company confused the public and defamed the paper with ugly words.

"Our client did not fabricate the facts that Nongfu products were off the shelves in supermarkets, because that was provided by a Beijing-based bottled-water association," she said, adding that the media sent an interview outline to the giant.

The newspaper asked the company to pay 1 yuan as a symbolic compensation, as it was simply aiming to improve the truth of its reports, the lawyers added.

But Ye Zhijian and Zhang Zhaohua, attorneys for the enterprise, said the stories were not rigorous or scientific, and that the newspaper interpreted out of context the facts in a bid to deliberately smear Nongfu.

"Take one report's headline, for example. It said Nongfu Spring was not as good as tap water, which obviously damages our client's reputation," Ye said.

In addition, the company decided to sue the water association because it did not give comments based on the facts and provided information to the media without confirmation, Zhang added.

The court asked the two parties to continue organizing evidence and did not hand down a verdict after the almost three-hour hearing.

Earlier in November, the company filed complaints with the top media regulator, made amid a nationwide campaign by the government and news organizations to crack down on false reports and journalistic corruption.

The move was launched after police in Hunan province detained Chen Yongzhou, a journalist with the Guangdong-based New Express who was suspected of taking bribes and denigrating a Hunan enterprise with fabricated information.
Zhong Shanshan, founder and chairman of Nongfu Spring Co Ltd. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Chairman Zhong Shanshan is digging new channels to let China's bottled water flow into world markets

Zhong Shanshan wants Nongfu Spring's branded packaged drinking water to be more than just sweet.

The founder and chairman of Nongfu Spring, a household name in China known for its red-cap packaged water bottlesannual sales: 15 billion bottleswants his aqua to taste and be "natural" as well.

For decades, Nongfu Spring rode on its popular catchphrase "a little bit sweet". So much so Chinese consumers believed sweet water is better water.

But, as competition in China's bottled water market intensifies with the entry of premium foreign brands such as Evian and Perrier, the 62-year-old journalist-turned-businessman is sharpening focus on Nongfu Spring "being natural".

In 2015, he inaugurated the company's latest factory that sources natural spring water from Changbai Mountains in Jilin province. Before then, he promptly got advertisers to portray Nongfu Spring as "the transporter in the natural world, instead of a manufacturer of water".

The new factory site is tucked north at the foot of the mountain range that forms a natural border with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The site's location, Changbai, means "perpetually white" in Chinese. It marks the eighth source of water for the company that now owns and operates 16 factories in China. It is estimated to contribute no more than a quarter of the total water supply used by the company.

But for Zhong, the factory signals "a new start for the company", if not the domestic bottled water market.

"They (the three new products made at the new factory) are not tailored for use as thirst-quenchers," said Zhong in an exclusive interview with China Daily.

They are labeled premium table water, water for baby and teenager drink respectively.

One distinguishing feature of the three varieties is they are value-added with minerals, unlike the regular purified water.

The premium table water also comes in attractive designer glass bottles, complete with a painted image of a silhouette and animals found in the mountainous region. Of the three new varieties, it is the most expensive at 50 yuan ($8) for 750 ml. The regular 550-ml packaged water bottle retails for no more than 3 yuan.

The premium table water variety is also Nongfu Spring's priciest ever.

"Twenty years ago, people drank packaged water because they were thirsty. Now, they drink it to wash down the bubbly or sour wine," said Zhong. "Wherever there is wine, there should be (packaged drinking) water."
Chinese companies must "understand what they are buying", said Alex Wittenberg, executive director of Global Risk Center at Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc. [Photo provided to China Daily]

The M&A season may be upon corporate China, but senior research fellows are cautioning local companies to be more selective and diligent before committing to major deals.

Overseas acquisitions should be preceded by careful risk evaluation and a clear plan to integrate new investments with long-term business strategies, they said.

Alex Wittenberg, executive director of Global Risk Center at Marsh & McLennan Companies Inc, a leading insurance broker and risk manager, said at a recent forum on overseas investment opportunities and risks on March 4, "Companies make mistakes when they set a foreign investment strategy to go do something. At that point of time, they don't address the risks in that strategy.

"What they do is they move forward with that strategy and address the risks after. It's hard to move off their initial statement when they already started making investments and announced it in the media."

The forum was jointly held by Marsh and the Center for China & Globalization, a Beijing-headquartered think tank. Wittenberg said that "becoming more sophisticated on how you select projects you want to do is going to become more and more important", especially in the Chinese context.

Ten years ago, Chinese companies used to say they want to do all the projects because they had a lot of cash and they were growing fast. Now, it is more important that Chinese companies take "a more disciplined approach" by "really evaluating the risks" and "understanding what they are buying".

"You have to be really honest with yourself, knowing what you are good at and what you aren't. What risks should you really not take on board because your company has no capability or experience? You can't just hope that risks are not going to happen," he said.

All countries have some risk inherent in doing business there, especially when Chinese companies start looking at some of the fragile states.

"What's really important is making sure that you have a consistent way of evaluating the host country where you are going to make these investments. That's something that often gets lost in the analysis," he said.

In a particular country, the return may look fantastic but when companies account for the risks doing business there, they actually adjust that downwards for the risks they are taking. For instance, a comparatively lower return in a stable country does not start off looking very attractive but when the companies take the risk into account, it really is.

"It's important that you look at an investment and say, 'Is it an opportunity under every version of the future that I can think of, or is it a great opportunity only under one?' If it's only an opportunity when a number of things happen perfectly, then you really have to consider it," he said.

The underlying reason for making investments, he emphasized, cannot just be that the short-term price looks good. The investment has to fit with the long-term business strategy.

"As Chinese companies move into other parts of the world, it is not as much sector-specific as it is to understand their own strategy and where they want to be," he said.

Huo Jianguo, a senior research fellow at the Center for China & Globalization, agreed. This is particularly true for Chinese companies launching huge projects and selecting partners overseas, especially in countries along the routes of the Belt and Road Initiative, he said.

Passing through more than 60 countries and regions with a population of about 4.4 billion, the initiative aims to improve cooperation with countries across Asia, Europe and Africa.

"Companies must do comprehensive business feasibility studies before participating in projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. They should be prepared for covering financial losses on their own when risks occur, instead of expecting the Chinese government to help them out of trouble," said Huo, former president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce.

He urged large corporations to make greater efforts to have good risk management, for they are capable of mobilizing a huge amount of capital. The consequences would be devastating if something went wrong, he said.
Technicians examine a nearly finished bullet train at a factory of CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co Ltd in Qingdao, Shandong province. CSR Sifang America JV, a CRRC subsidiary, clinched a $1.3-billion deal from the Chicago Transit Authority this month to supply up to 846 metro vehicles to the Midwestern city. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Chinese firms gear up to export smart bullet trains, subway and railway technologies and equipments

China Railway Rolling Stock Corp, the country's largest train-maker, is planning to build bullet trains and provide services in developed markets, including the United States and the United Kingdom, to further compete with its established rivals in Europe, Japan and Canada during the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20).

Many of these opportunities come from surging demand in these countries for improved railway infrastructure facilities, passenger services and regional connectivity. They also want to boost local job markets and related commercial areas in the process.

CRRC has set a target of 30 percent growth by 2020 in its research and development ability from current levels. This target is especially applicable to its three bullet train manufacturing subsidiariesCRRC Tangshan Co Ltd, CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co Ltd and CRRC Changchun Co Ltd.

Yu Weiping, CRRC's vice-president, said the company will further develop "smart trains". Such trains will use advanced digitalization and automation technologies that enable automatic speed control, condition determination and fault detection.

CRRC's goal is to grab more global market share from its foreign competitors, he said. The company is in talks with more than 30 countries, including the US, Russia, Brazil, Thailand, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Iran, about high-speed rail projects.

CRRC and its partner, China Railway Corp, the country's railway service provider, were selected by the Indonesian government last year to build the nation's first bullet train railroad project. The two companies will construct the $5.5-billion, 150-kilometer high-speed railway line linking the capital Jakarta with Bandung.

This is China's first overseas high-speed train project. It involves design and construction work, financing solutions, and operational and maintenance services.

With more than 184,000 employees and 52 subsidiaries in various industries, including signal system design, train and related equipment production, CRRC has already built manufacturing facilities and maintenance centers in the US, Malaysia, Turkey and Brazil.

Yu said the company is keen to contribute to a new high-speed rail culture in the US, after it invested $60 million to build a new manufacturing facility to produce railcars in Springfield, Massachusetts, last year. The company is preparing to build another one in Chicago soon.

"With high-speed trains traveling at a speed of over 300 kilometers per hour, it will help the US to change its ground commuting systems that have long been dominated by automobiles," said Yu.
A female coal miner is seen at the Huaibei mine, East China's Anhui province, March 24, 2016. [Photo/IC]

Coal mining is usually a man's world, as women miners are rarely seen in China. However, there is a team of women miners working at the Huaibei Mine Factory in East China's Anhui province. Standing beside conveyer belts, by hand they separate coal from worthless gangue. Each day at the Huaibei mine, nearly 100 carts of coal are processed in this way. It's a hard and dirty job and the pay is not high, but the women work hard to make a contribution to society.

Yin Weimin, China's minister of Human Resources and Social Security, said earlier that China expects to lay off 1.3 million workers in the coal industry and 500,000 million workers in the steel sector, as part of efforts to reduce industrial overcapacity.
The former vice-president of SAIC Motor Corp is reportedly joining the electric car division of Internet company LeEco.

The report has not yet been confirmed, but, should it be the case, it would continue the trend of top executives leaving well-known automakers to head the automobile divisions of Internet companies.

Auto Business Review reported last week that Zhang Hailiang, 46, who quit SAIC on March 11, will take up the position of China president at the electric supercar division of Leshi Internet Information and Technology Corp. He managed the automaker's Sino-German joint venture Shanghai Volkswagen Co as president for four years from 2010, and was promoted to vice-president of SAIC in 2014.

The three vice-presidents of Leshi's supercar division are all from auto manufacturers: Lyu Zhengyu was the former general manager of Infiniti China; Gao Jingshen was the former vice-president of GACToyota; and Fu Zhenxing was the former powertrain system chief engineer of Shanghai E-Propulsion Auto Technology Co under SAIC.

Frank Sterzer, the former manufacturing director at Volkswagen Group China, joined Leshi supercars as senior director of manufacturing in April 2015.

Internet connected automobiles are becoming a key area of competition between auto manufacturers and Internet companies, said Li Bin, executive vice-director of the National Intelligent Transport Systems Center of Engineering and Technology, at a forum on March 20 in Zhejiang province.

Another Li Bin, the founder and chairman of the board of NextEV and auto information site Bitauto.com, said the biggest change being made by the Internet is "in the relationship between the automakers and the customers" where there are "opportunities to redefine the interactive experience and restructure the automotive industrial chain".

Other top auto executives have already joined Internet companies. Martin Leach, the former CEO of Maserati joined NextEV, which specializes in designing and developing high-performance electric vehicles.

Harmony Futeng, which is backed by Tencent Holdings and cellphone maker Hon Hai Precision Industry, announced in February that Carsten Breitfeld, a former vice-president of BMW Group, had become CEO; and Daniel Kirchert, the former president of Dongfeng Infiniti, had became COO.
The Lincoln Institute in Shanghai trains its salespeople to deliver a personally crafted experience at dealerships. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Ford Motors' premium brand Lincoln is focusing on customer experience to distinguish itself from its competitors in the Chinese market.

Lincoln China President Robert Parker said the Lincoln Institute in Shanghai is designed to fulfill its initiative of The Lincoln Way by training its salesmen to deliver a personally crafted experience at dealerships.

"Lincoln has always been known for its personalized service. Now, the institute will ensure each staff member personifies The Lincoln Way by shedding the traditional mindset of the detached, sales-centric approach," Parker said.

The institute is maintained by a five-star hospitality team. Dealership staff members learn how to deliver high-quality personalized service with an innate understanding of luxury retailing and high-end hospitality from more than 40 lecturers in departments of hospitality and luxury, core competency, tech and engineering, and human resources management and support.

The brand will increase its dealerships to 60, covering 50 cities, by the end of this year after it sold 11,630 cars in 2015.

Anderson Liu, general manager for network and consumer experiences at Lincoln China, said: "Customers are the center of our dealerships. One example is that spaces for show cars account for less than 28 percent of our stores. The figure could reach 70 percent at stores of some other brands."

He said that Lincoln will endeavor to enable that customers feel they are treated the way they deserve.

"I tell our colleagues that if a potential customer wants a Lincoln car for his wedding ceremony but he cannot afford it, we should not sell it but lend it to him free of charge.

"He may not afford it now. But one year or two years later when he can afford it, he will come to us because of his experience."

Lincoln also allows its customers to use its dealerships free of charge to hold exhibitions of their works or even organize business parties.

Parker said Lincoln made investments to build state-of-the-art dealerships and would like to share them with its customers, to make the dealerships a customer's home away from home.

The Lincoln Institute also encourages innovation at every level to meet evolving consumer needs.

Parker said the institute developed the Virtual Lincoln Way, which is an industry-first initiative that allows customers to tour a virtual dealership and manage their automotive purchase and ownership online.

The app allows potential customers to book test drives online and Lincoln staff will deliver the vehicle to their door.
"Papi", a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama, became popular online in a short time. [Photo by Wei Xiaohao/China Daily]

Having your videos trend on the Internet can bring both fame and fortune, as a female blogger from Shanghai has recently found out.

"Papi", a graduate from the Central Academy of Drama, began posting her homemade videos on social networks in August.

She quickly gained a huge following, and her quirky clips, which can easily top 100,000 views each, soon caught the attention of Luo Zhenyu, an Internet sensation in his own right.

On March 19, the news broke that Luo had invested 12 million yuan ($1.84 million) in Papi, drawn by her humorous yet critical monologues on issues that affect people in China.

Papi's videos are widely shared on social networks such as WeChat and Weibo, where she has 8 million followers, but the reaction to her work has been mixed.

On Weibo, "Liuxiaoman" said, "Her hilarious commentaries on pop culture not only get the point, but are also thought-provoking."

Fellow Weibo user "Zuichu1998" praised Papi's work ethic, adding: "It must take her a while to shoot even the simplest of scenes. She deserves the money."

Some have argued that Papi just happens to be in the right place at the right time, as Internet sensations are all the rage.

"Because they have so many followers, Internet sensations are an attractive addition to any promotion," said Zhang Yi, CEO of iiMedia Research. "That's why people are keen to invest."

However, not everyone is optimistic about the staying power of the online celebrities.

"There have been sensations like this before. They usually don't last very long," said "DogRich" on Weibo. "Only those backed by professional agents can really make their way in this business."

Shen Yang, professor at Tsinghua University, expressed concerns about whether Papi could "stick to her own style" after the investment.

"Whether her commercial value continues to rise is also questionable," he said, recalling past Internet sensations Fengjie and Shi Hengxia who did not last long in the spotlight.

Still, a lot of people believe in Papi and this new era of Internet celebrity.

Heima, an investment critic, said that "attitudes regarding the Internet have changed", highlighting the rewards viewers give to Papi in the form of cash through WeChat. "That means people are now willing to pay for what they love to see on the Internet, especially if those people do or say things that resonate with them," he said.
Premier Li Keqiang took time out from his jam-packed schedule last week to get a firsthand look at the developments in Hainan province's tourism industry.

The premier landed in Sanya on Tuesday to attend the inaugural Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Leaders' Meeting before heading to the Boao Forum for Asia on Thursday.

Yet before the meeting, he dropped into a tourism development center in Sanya that provides information and assistance to the many domestic and international visitors who arrive each year on the tropical island.

"Modern tourism should not be seen as a tertiary industry," he said while chatting with staff members. "Hainan should make efforts to boost tourism, as well as drive development in other local sectors."

Tourists made nearly 15 million overnight visits to Sanya last year, according to official data.

The State Council has introduced several favorable policies to support Hainan's tourism development, including allowing offshore duty-free and relaxed visa rules.

Now, tourism accounts for roughly 15 percent of the local economy. However, the province ranks 28th in China in terms of GDP.

Zhang Guangrui, head of tourism research at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Hainan needs to figure out a unique way to win tourists' attention, especially international visitors.

"For years the island has focused too much on building real estate, such as luxurious hotels and high-priced restaurants that locals can't afford," he said.

He believes Li's visit shows the government's resolve to boost tourism, which will play an important role as China transitions toward a consumption-led economy.

"The key is to appropriately connect tourism development with local people's lives," he said. "Hainan used to rely mostly on fishing and agriculture, but now improvement are needed in areas of talent attraction, infrastructure and regulation to make it an international tourism destination."

Before returning to Beijing on Friday, the premier also visited the Chengmei International Medical Center at Hainan Cancer Hospital.

The clinic has benefited from several policies introduced by the State Council last year, including a relaxation of rules about overseas medical practitioners and the importation of medicines and medical equipment.

The center collaborates with institutions in the United States, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Germany. At the time of Li's visit, its medical workers were on a video link with experts at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf to consult on a 68-year-old patient from Beijing with lung cancer.

The hospital treats many elderly people from northern China who migrate to the southern island during the winter months.
Vice-Premier Liu Yandong lays a brick at the foundation-laying ceremony for the Confucius Institute at Cairo University in Egypt on March 6, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

Outstanding Egyptian youths wishing to study in China will soon be able to take advantage of 500 freshman scholarships provided by the government, Vice-Premier Liu Yandong said on Saturday.

Liu made the announcement while addressing a forum of Chinese and Egyptian university chiefs in Cairo.

There are more than 800 Egyptian students studying in China, and more than 2,300 Chinese students studying in Egypt, Liu said, adding that the two countries should make bilateral people-to-people exchanges a "locomotive" driving China-Arab and China-African relations.

Among other proposals, Liu called for universities to strengthen cooperation in the field of scientific research, to play the role of think tanks to develop the two countries' relationship, and to create more opportunities for young teachers and students to get to know their counterparts abroad.

She also attended other activities since her arrival in Egypt on Friday, including the cornerstone-laying ceremony of a building at Cairo University's Confucius Institute.

Egypt is the first stop of Liu's visit to the Middle East this month, to be followed by Israel and Palestine.

In January, during President Xi Jinping's visit, the launch of a year of bilateral cultural exchanges between Egypt and China was announced to mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the countries.

Yang Guang, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said Liu's visit helps consolidate bilateral cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

China "attaches great importance" to Egypt, a country that has "a wide influence" in the Middle East, the Arab world and Africa, he said.

Li Guofu, an expert on the Middle East studies at the China Institute of International Studies, said one purpose of Liu's visit was to implement a five-year plan to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

Liu met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Sunday morning, followed by Secretary-General Nabil El Araby of the League of Arab States and Egyptian Prime Minister Sherif Ismail in the afternoon.

Vice-Premier Liu Yandong lays a brick at the foundation-laying ceremony for the Confucius Institute at Cairo University in Egypt on Saturday.
Average sea levels are rising faster in China's coastal region than most other places in the world, affecting the coastal environment in various ways, the national marine authority said.

Instead of only threatening the relocation of communities and homes in the short term, rising seas are also causing damage to coastal soil and vegetation.

Chinese scientists are still studying and debating how long the trend of rising sea levels is going to continue. Sea levels started rising in the 1980s, and the trend is likely to continue, even accelerate, because of climate change, according to marine officials.

"China's coastal sea level on average rose by 3 millimeters a year from 1980 to 2015, higher than the global average," said Xiang Wenxi, deputy director of the National Marine Data & Information Service, a think tank affiliated with the State Ocean Administration.

In 2015, the average sea level along China's coast was 90 mm higher from 1975 to 1993, a benchmark for comparison, making it the fourth-highest since 1980, said the Bulletin on Sea Levels of China, issued by the administration on Tuesday.

Seas are rising because they absorb large amounts of heat caused by climate change, which has also accelerated the melting of land-based glaciers and the Arctic and Antarctic ice sheets, said Huang Lei, an engineer with the National Climate Center, last week. Since 1993, waters from melted land-based glaciers have made seas across the globe to rise 0.76 mm a year, and the melted ice sheets from the polar regions have caused them to rise by another 0.6 mm annually.

"The rise in sea levels has been forecast to continue and even accelerate in the future," Huang said. The national marine authority agreed with that assessment.

In the coming 30 years, Shanghai, a coastal metropolis with a population of more than 24 million, will see the sea along its coast rise by 75 to 150 mm, after rising 105 mm more than the benchmark level, the bulletin said. Moreover, Tianjin, another port city about 950 km north of Shanghai, could see its coastal waters rise by 100 to 195 mm.

"Rising sea levels will weaken the protective shield of sea dykes and harm some plants, decaying mangrove forests in the southern coastal regions," said Liu Kexiu, another senior researcher with the ocean administration's think tank. But he added that human activities have caused more damage to the precious mangroves.

More importantly, high seas aggravate storm surges, exacerbate flooding, erode shorelines, cause seawater invasion, inundate crops and homes, threaten livelihoods and even worsen marine disasters, said Liu, adding that the cities and people in the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta regions have suffered more than those in other regions.
The Ministry of Civil Affairs will conduct a census of left-behind children in 2016, a senior official said.

Ni Chunxia, deputy director of the ministry's Department of Social Affairs, said it will be the first national-level census of left-behind children.

Song Yinghui, a law professor at Beijing Normal University, said China has about 100 million children from migrant workers' families, more than 60 million who were left behind in their hometown, and more than 36 million travel with their migrant worker parents.

"The number100 millionis about one-third of Chinese children under 18, which means that one in three children in China is left-behind or travels with parents," Song said, adding that this presents a challenge to social administration.

The number of left-behind children in China has never been agreed upon.

"One number is about 60 million, and the other is about 80 million," said Wan Guowei, associate professor specializing in public administration at Lanzhou University, adding that the difference comes from the absence of both parents or only one parent.

The last survey of left-behind children by an authoritative organization was done by the All-China Women's Federation in 2013, which estimated that China had about 61.02 million left-behind children.

With rapid urbanization over the last two decades, millions of migrant workers have moved to cities, leaving their children at home.

A 2015 survey conducted by Shangxuelushang, an NGO that helps left-behind children, said about 15 percent of them reported having no physical contact with their parents during the course of a calendar year.

Four percent received just one phone call a year from parents, it said.

The neglect caused some tragedies. In June, four siblings aged 5 to 13 who had been left behind in Bijie, Guizhou province, committed suicide by drinking pesticide at home.

"Left-behind children's tragedies may hit the front pages of newspapers for a few days, but when the stories go cold, people's attention shifts. The key to solving the problem is to establish a system to help them and prevent such tragedies," said Liu Wenkui, secretary-general of the China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation.

The central government is taking action to establish a system to address the plight of left-behind children. A guideline for their protection was signed by Premier Li Keqiang and released in February.

The comprehensive survey of left-behind children will be carried out by the Ministry of Civil Affairs and other government organs, such as the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Public Security, according to Vice-Minister of Civil Affairs Zou Ming at a State Council Information Office media briefing in February.

A new section to protect left-behind children in rural areas was set up by the Ministry of Civil Affairs in February.

"The section will effectively link social assistance, welfare and other resources and also work to link government organs to improve a whole system to protect left-behind children," the ministry's Department of Social Affairs said.

The section will carry out the census.
Profits at major industrial firms rose 4.8 percent year-on-year for the first two months of 2016, reversing last year's downward trend, official data showed on Sunday.

Profits at industrial companies with annual revenues of more than 20 million yuan ($3.1 million) totaled 780.7 billion yuan during the January-February period, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

The latest numbers contrast with December, when profits registered a 4.7 percent year-on-year fall - the seventh straight month of decline - and an overall 2.3 percent annual decrease in 2015.

He Ping, an official at the NBS's department of industry, attributed the latest profit growth to increased sales and a milder decline in factory product prices.

During the first two months of the year, revenues from the firms' primary business climbed 1 percent year-on-year, improving from a 0.6 percent drop in December and a 0.8 percent increase for last year. In the January-February period, China's producer price index, which measures the prices of goods at the factory gate, slipped 5.1 percent year-on-year - the 48th month in a row in February, narrowing from a drop of 5.9 percent in December and 5.2 percent for 2015.

JZ Securities economist Deng Haiqing viewed the industrial profits' return to growth as a more certain signal of improving economic fundamentals.

Downstream demand is rebounding, Deng said, citing faster growth in property investment, which contributes a significant part of China's economy.

Investment in China's property sector rose 3 percent year-on-year in the first two months of 2016, higher than the 1-percent rate for all of 2015.

Oil refining, electrical machinery and food industries contributed most of the industrial profit growth in the first two months, NBS data showed.

Growth in the food industry was driven by strong demand and declines in the prices of some raw materials, the statement said.

The statistical authorities generally provide a combined profit figure for the first two months of each year to smooth out seasonal distortions caused by the Lunar New Year holiday, when most business activities stop for weeklong celebrations.

Private firms outperformed the State sector, with profits up by 7.5 percent year-on-year, compared with a 14.5 percent plunge in profits of State-owned industrial producers.
CAI MENG/CHINA DAILY

Rural women are getting divorced in record numbers, something observers say is due to the empowerment and experience they acquire when working far from home. Zhou Wenting reports from Shanghai.

A record number of women from rural China are filing for divorce. In most cases, their marriages broke down after they migrated to the city in search of work but found love or self-empowerment instead.

Guo Feifei is among them.

After leaving home in rural Anhui province as a 21-year-old to work at an electronics factory in Shanghai in 2010, she ended up realizing she no longer wanted to remain married to the man she wed from a neighboring village back home.

She drew a line under her five-year marriage two years ago.

"I blamed myself when the idea of divorce first occurred to me, and I questioned myself repeatedly about whether leaving home for work was a good idea," said Guo, a native of Anhui. "But, eventually, I realized I was renewed by city life and I had found myself living in a different world from my ex-husband."

Statistics from the people's court in Songzi city, Hubei province, are typical. They show that three in four of the more than 700 divorce lawsuits filed there in 2014 were initiated by wives, and more than 90 percent of those involved women who had migrated to big cities for workand often husbands who stayed behind in the village.

Shi Renbing, head of the Population Research Institute at Wuhan-based Huazhong University of Science and Technology, said in a report examing the phenomenon that similar patterns were being played out in rural regions of Henan and Sichuan provinces as well.

Sociologists believe the women get new experiences in the cities they move to and an economic independence that means many of them start to pay more attention to their own wellbeing and aspirations than they had ever done before.

"Usually, rural women are deprived of the right to make choices and decisions, starting in their childhoods," said Lin Zi, founder of a psychological consultancy in Shanghai.

"When they enter an open environment in a leading city, their self-awareness and inner power explode to push them to make changes," Lin said.

"It seems as if this phenomenon is not just about marriage but is really about choosing who they want to be."

In the case of Guo, she grew up with two younger brothers, who were favored by her parents: It was the boys who usually got most of the attention from the extended family, both in terms of finance and love, she said.

"One of my brothers and I suffered from asthma in childhood. I was often pinched by my mother when I could not stop myself coughing at night but my brother always escaped that," she said.

Guo believes that women are treated as inferior in rural areas, especially the most economically disadvantaged places, and she says such thinking is still mainstream.

But that all changed when she went to Shanghai.

Two years after arriving in the city, when she went to work as a nanny, the differences she had begun to notice really hit home.

"After joining Shanghai families, I found that women in big cities can receive a good education and enjoy equal opportunities in many aspects of life, and they can be independent and live a colorful life," she said. "That is totally different to what happened to usa girl in a rural area is an accessory that is neglected by parents, her husband and the whole family."

The longer she stayed in Shanghai, the less she wanted to return to her old life. Today, she has no intention of leaving.

"I win the trust and favor of my employers and I can earn as much as a college graduate if I work hard. I'm satisfied with my life here," she said.

Guo's ex-husband used to say the option of going to the city and earning good money wasn't open to him because there were no suitable jobs but Guo believes he could have made a go of city life if he had been willing to take on tough jobs, such as those in the construction field or even by working as a courier. She feels as if she had more get-up-and-go than he did. Academics tend to agree.

"Women, who are used to receiving less care from the family and fighting for opportunities by themselves since childhood are more independent and proactive when it comes to work," said Xue Yali, a researcher with the Family Research Center under the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences.

But Lin added that, despite the difference in attitude, the type of work that migrant women can find does make it easier for them to integrate into city life.

"Men are mainly involved in heavy industries and work hard and often feel isolated and so many often can't wait to return home as soon as possible," she said. "However, women in many cases participate in housekeeping, which is not as grueling, and it also gives them a chance to see the real life of local families and they want to be a part of that."

Guo's ex-husband, meanwhile, thinks their problems lay in the fact that his wife was too ambitious and aggressive.

"We lived a life that was above average in our village but she was unsatisfied," he said. "I wanted a woman to take care of the family rather than have an adventure outside."
Cost is high from over-reliance on heavy industry with too many smokestack industries and mines and too few private firms

Editor's Note: Now that the Chinese government has adopted its growth strategy for this year and the nation's five-year plan from 2016 to 2020, we have decided to publish a regular Policy Review Page to brief our readers about what the policies are and what they include, their underlining realities and political considerations. In this edition, we take a look at the challenging conditions in some of China's northern and northeastern provinces, and at the central officials' attitude toward China's capital outflow and the possible measures they may adopt should the outflow become so large it threatens the economy's overall health.

Overseas commentators sometimes wonder how China has maintained a high economic growth rate for more than three decades without encountering a crisis. But the fact is China's economy has encountered various crises, one after another, in its regions.

One example is the sluggish economies of its northeastern provinces. In 2004, the central government vowed to rejuvenate Northeast China's economy. But the northeastern region still lags behind other regions of China when it comes to private enterprises and opening-up to the global market.

An investigative report by China Economic Times says the northeastern region's symptoms are evident in some northern provinces too. All of them have too many smokestack industries and mines, and too few private and services enterprises.

On the country's 2015 GDP growth rate ranking list, Shanxi, Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Jilin and Hebei provinces, and the Inner Mongolia autonomous region occupied the bottom six positions among 31 provincial-level regions. Their economic structures have common features such as over-reliance on resource-intensive and heavy industries.

China Economic Times sent teams of journalists to probe deeper into the phenomenon, and they found that Gansu province and the Ningxia Hui autonomous region also had similar economic structures.

"We have one city built on crude-oil mining and four others on coal mining," says Chen Yongchang, head of the official economic advisory committee of Heilongjiang province. "The energy industry accounts for 60 percent of our provincial GDP and its problems drag our economy down."

The city built on crude-oil mining he is referring to is Daqing, where the GDP growth rate was minus 4.3 percent in the first three quarters of 2015, and still falling.

Things are even worse in Liaoning province. From January to August 2015, the profits of its cement industry, one of its pillar industries, dropped 145.3 percent.

Over-reliance on resource-intensive industries makes the economies of these provinces and regions rather vulnerable to fluctuations in energy prices. In Shanxi, "you can never talk about its economy without mentioning coal", says Chen Guowei, who heads industrial economy research at the provincial Development Research Center.

The lack of proper understanding of the market makes things worse. The China Economic Times journalists agreed on one thing, that entrepreneurs in the above provinces and regions care more about leading officials' opinions than market changes, because they make profits by getting allowances from the provincial governments rather than by increasing productivity.

Also, State-owned enterprises, which still play a major role in the provinces and regions, still carry the heavy baggage of bureaucracy with them.

"We produce good grains, but our mooncakes are all imported from Guangdong province in the south," says Li Junjiang, chief of the School of Economics, Jilin University.

Local enterprises tend to solve problems through their close relationships with officials instead of market means, Li added.

What should the resource-intensive provinces do? How do they reverse the falling trend?

"Investment is still the most effective policy," says Ren Kai, a planning official with the Shanxi provincial development and reform commission.

Ren's remarks reflect the mentality of officials in the provinces. As demand dips, heavy investment in big projects becomes their main tool to stabilize economic growth.

To attract investment, the Liaoning provincial government has set up a 10-billion-yuan ($1.53 billion) "guiding fund" to facilitate cooperation between State and private capital. In neighboring Jilin, officials have expedited infrastructure construction. And Heilongjiang had started at least five programs by September 2015, each with an investment of over 10 billion yuan.

Another major move is to develop new industries and extend the industrial chain. In Inner Mongolia, one coal mine after another has been trying to extract gas and oil from coal, in order to produce cleaner energy.

And Shanxi is putting more emphasis on sectors such as cultural tourism, agriculture and gas exploitation.
More Chinese students are returning home after studying overseas, largely because of the difficulty in finding a suitable partner, the Yangcheng Evening News reported on Sunday.

Of those who return, nearly 60 percent are women.

China's Ministry of Education released a report saying that 79.87 percent of Chinese students studying abroad chose to return to China to continue their careers in 2014.

Statistics show that 59.16 percent of female overseas returnees come home after finishing their studies, surpassing the number of their male counterparts.

The reason is mainly because it is relatively difficult to find a marriage partner in a foreign country.

Blind dates have become increasingly popular among overseas returnees, and job fairs this spring season plan to organize match-making events with dating agencies to help returnees, the report said.

The number of students coming home to work has risen sharply in recent years due to the unprecedented opportunities and favorable development environment in China, said Qi Mo, director of the Overseas Returnee Department at the Ministry of Education Service Center.

Furthermore, the report shows that for Chinese overseas students abroad, Britain, America, Australia, Korea, Japan, France, and Germany are the top destinations.

More and more Chinese students are choosing the U.S. for doctorate degrees in engineering and medical science, which require highly technical knowledge; meanwhile other overseas students prefer to go to Britain for masters degrees in economics and management, it was added.

In addition, 49.34 percent of overseas returnees choose to work in first-tier cities, namely Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, a decrease of eight percent compared with the previous year.

As job markets tighten in eastern cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, recent graduates have already begun looking towards second and third tier cities for employment, where comparatively low salaries are offset by a lower cost of living.

Overseas returnees entering the job market this year are distressed by low salaries, where the salaries of graduates with doctorate degrees average around 5,000 yuan ($767) to 10,000 yuan a month; and nearly 50 percent of students with masters degrees earns less than 5,000 yuan, according to the report.
Four hospital trains will soon leave Beijing on an eight-month mission to help thousands of people around China see again.

The rainbow-colored trains, carrying high-tech surgical equipment and experienced doctors, aim to provide free cataract surgery to 12,000 people.

They will call at nine cities this year, starting at Fuyang in Anhui province before moving on to Luoyang in Henan province and Anshun in Guizhou province.

Supported by the Chinese Foundation for Lifeline Express, the trains are each equipped with a surgery room, two bathrooms and a recovery carriage for 40 patients.

Nellie Fong, founder of the NGO, said the trains were not only on a mission to restore sight, but also the hope of better living conditions through improved opportunities.

According to Fong, the trains have traveled to 151 cities since 1997 and provided free cataract surgery to more than 170,000 people in China's remotest areas.

The NGO has also built 62 permanent cataract medical centers, providing training to doctors from local hospitals on the treatment of common eye diseases.

Another six such medical centers will be built this year, offering long-term medical assistance to low-income patients, Fong said.
A woman has been sentenced to eight months in prison for threatening to bomb a Beijing subway station, a prosecutor responsible for the case revealed on Monday.

The defendant surnamed Wang, in her 50s, called subway officers on Oct 30, saying that she would bomb Jianguomen subway station on Line 1, according to Li Mei, the prosecutor from Beijing Xicheng District People's Procuratorate.

The call lasted about 10 seconds and the police were quick to respond, Li said.

"Wang said that she felt annoyed after she fell down in crowds on the subway, said the prosecutor.

After calling the police, the woman became increasingly irate and threatened to set off an explosive device, Li said.

Her behavior contravened China's laws, disturbed the peace and could have caused widespread panic, the prosecutor added.
People from all walks of life lined up to attend a flag-raising ceremony in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet autonomous region, on Monday morning to mark the 57th anniversary of the abolition of serfdom in Tibet.

While the ceremony was under way, residents enjoyed themselves with Tibetan songs and dances in Lhasa's Dzongyab Lukhang Park.

The annual Serfs' Emancipation Day is held on March 28 to commemorate the 1959 democratic reform in Tibet, which ended feudal serfdom and freed about one million Tibetan serfs.

"I was told by my parents that they had a miserable life in the old days and thanks to the leadership of the Communist Party of China, our livelihood has further improved," said Losang, a 65-year-old resident of Lhasa.

An elderly man from Tibet's Nyingchi prefecture said he couldn't agree more.

"There are airplanes in the sky, cars and trains on the ground, villages accessed with proper roads, it is so convenient today, and with medical insurance, most of our medical bills are covered," he said.

Pema Wangdron, a primary school student in Lhasa, said she had heard brutal stories of the old Tibet from her grandpa.

"My grandpa was in the army in the old days. He said he saw many corpses of serfs in the past, and the corpses of serf's children in the well," said the 10-year-old, adding that she believes the region will become much more prosperous under the leadership of President Xi Jinping.

"Fifty-seven years ago, Tibet ended the history of feudal serfdom and returned freedom to the people of Tibet, and a new era was opened for them," said Qi Zhala, Party chief of Lhasa.

"The dark old Tibet was buried by history, and the beautiful blueprint of the socialist new Tibet is in full swing."
A dozen students were kicked out of their high school in Hebei province for bringing or using mobile phones at school, the Beijing News reported on Monday.

Hebei Cangzhou No 1 High School said it did so because it wants to "provide a healthy and good environment for all students to study".

"I cannot accept that my child was kicked out for just using a cellphone," a student's father, who was known only by the surname Ji, was quoted as saying.

According to Ji, his child was caught using the phone when calling home during a break and was asked to transfer to another school.

A spokesperson with the education authority in Cangzhou has confirmed the incident, adding that it has started an investigation into the incident.

The school defended itself in a statement that some of the 12 students were caught doing "harmful things", such as playing music with a cellphone, taking photos of others secretly and using it as a cheating tool during examinations.

The school made the decision to "protect the interests of the most students".

But the 12 students' parents argued that the school, which has more than 6,000 students, had allowed students to use custom-made cellphones to call parents at designated periods of time with the cooperation of a local telecommunications company.

A teacher at the school was quoted saying that the school later banned cellphone use, because the school found the telecommunications company failed to control cellphone signals.

The news has stirred a discussion about whether it is reasonable to kick students out for using cellphones.

Some education experts were quoted saying the punishment was too harsh and has violated educational regulations. But others said it's good for students to study without being distracted by cellphones.
A Chinese medical worker prepares to vaccinate a young kid at a hospital in Shanghai, China, March 20, 2016. [Photo/IC]

The government vowed on Monday to thoroughly investigate the recently exposed scandal involving vaccines worth 570 million yuan ($88 million).

The State Council has set up a special team to look into the regulatory system that failed to stop the nationwide distribution of substandard vaccines since 2011.

The team comprises officials from the China Food and Drug Administration, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of Supervision and  most noticeably  the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate, in addition to a committee of experts.

The team, led by Bi Jingquan, head of the China Food and Drug Administration, will proceed under the supervision of an inspection team led by Ding Xiangyang, deputy secretary-general of the State Council.

The scandal, first reported in late February, has shocked the nation and triggered widespread public concerns over vaccine safety.

Police in Shandong province said they had arrested a mother and daughter alleged to have illegally sold improperly stored or expired vaccines in 20 provinces since 2011.

More than 130 suspects have been detained, and about 30 drug distribution companies were found to be illegally trading the vaccines and selling them to 16 vaccination outlets.

Premier Li Keqiang pledged on Monday that the government will strengthen protection of public health and crack down on any possible criminal offenses and dereliction of duty in food and drug supplies.

Wang Yukai, an administrative professor at the Chinese Academy of Governance, said that with the establishment of a highly professional investigation team, the government is "getting serious" about the issue.

At the same time, the introduction of the inspection team can help to calm public sentiment, he said.

Zhu Lijia, a professor of public administration at the same academy, said the participation of top prosecutors highlights the possibility of administrative dereliction of duty in the case.

"By setting up such a team involving so many government entities and professional staff, I think there has been a timely response to the incident," he added.

Contact the writer at luowangshu@chinadaily.com.cn
A visitor takes pictures in front of the pink Floating Fish in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province, on Sunday. Zhang Di / For China Daily

After his giant Yellow Duck debuted in Hong Kong three years ago, Florentijn Hofman has made a giant pink Floating Fish for Wuzhen, an ancient water town in Zhejiang province.

It is the first time the Dutch artist has made an animal-related work on the Chinese mainland.

The 15-meter-long, 7-meter-high fish  made from thousands of swimming kickboards for children  floats on a pond at a theater in Wuzhen.

It was shown to the public on Sunday as part of the Wuzhen International Contemporary Art Exhibition.

"I got inspiration from Wuzhen and from a Chinese folk story that a fish jumping the dragon gate' brings luck and wealth for people," Hofman said.

Six months ago, he was invited by the Culture Wuzhen Company to create a work for the art show, which features works by influential artists.

Hofman then visited Wuzhen, one of the country's most popular tourist towns, where he saw windows of wooden houses with fish sculptures and also carp swimming in rivers, from where he says his inspiration came from.

The theater looks like a sea world and the dolphin-shaped water area fits well with the fish installation, he said.

He chose pink for his fish so that it would stand out from its surroundings.
A still from South Korean TV series Descendants of the Sun. [File photo]

South Korean TV series Descendants of the Sun starring Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo has sold licenses to 27 countries, including those in Europe and the Middle East, in an attempt to spread the popularity of the series which has been aired simultaneously both in South Korea and China.

The synchronized broadcast in both countries, including the first eight episodes, has triggered huge enthusiasm and gained a wide audience generating a handsome rating to help the producers occupy the upper hand in their plan to sell the TV series to an increasing number of recipients.

With the support from an immense number of fans, the subtitles of the dramas have been translated into more than 30 languages by online volunteers.

According to Viki, a US based video site which purchased the broadcast rights of the drama, the ratings for the TV series have topped others on the website's ranking list and created a huge gap between first and second place. The video website is preparing to increase the translation of the subtitles for a wider spectrum of audiences.

Related:

TV series on male nanny
[Photo/Xinhua]

There is a high prevalence of traditional medicines used in Brunei despite the free healthcare system provided in the sultanate, local media quoted a scientific study as saying Saturday.

According to Dr. Dk Nurolaini, deputy dean of Universiti Brunei Darussalam, over 62 percent of the Bruneians perceive traditional medicines to be a safe form of medication in her study.

She conducted the questionnaire based study to find out Bruneian's perception, attitude, knowledge and practices on the use of traditional medicines.

The study saw a total of 2,400 randomly administered patients attending health centers and hospitals across the country, aged between 16 to 85 years. Out of the total respondents, over 62 percent of the participants perceived traditional medicines to be a safe form of medication as it is made up of natural sources and had been used for generations.

More than 400 participants agreed that traditional medicines can be easily found at specialized shops and supermarkets in the sultanate. Meanwhile, 59 percent or 1,396 Bruneians were found to have used some form of traditional medicines throughout their life, with a majority of their users from the older age group (56 years and above).

According to the World Health Organisation, traditional medicine is the diverse health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal or mineral based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques to maintain well-being, as well as to treat, diagnose or prevent illness.
In the Government Work Report, delivered by Premier Li Keqiang on March 5 to the top legislature, it was proposed that cities introduce policies appropriate to the situations in their local property markets.

In general, the real estate market nationwide faces considerable pressure due to the high inventory of unsold properties, but the actual situations vary in different locations.

Since the beginning of 2016, for instance, housing prices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen have soared sharply, but the real estate markets in other cities, especially third- and fourth-tier cities and those at the county-level, are still sluggish.

It's a wise choice to implement real estate policies according to the actual situation in different areas. In the places where property prices are rising rapidly, the government should increase the supply of land so that supply meets the demand. But the preferential tax policies that encourage house purchases should not be implemented in the first-tier cities.

On Friday, the Shanghai government announced that it will strengthen its real estate regulations and crack down on housing speculation to prevent the housing market from overheating.

The policies include tightening the criteria for purchases and housing transactions, and increasing the down payment requirements.
Chinese tourists visit Tokyo's Ginza district for shopping in August. Japan is the second-most popular overseas destination. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Two online posts stirred wide debate at home about Chinese tourists' behavior overseas. In one, a video showed dozens of Chinese travelers scooping up shrimps directly with their plates at a buffet in Thailand, and then leaving some plates full of shrimps on their tables after the meal. The other post showed a South Korean restaurant, whose seafood was produced in 2013, that only served Chinese tour groups.

Last year, Chinese tourists made more than 120 million trips abroad, and their destinations covered nearly every corner of the world. So it is not surprising that some unpleasant stories should emerge occasionally. But it is wrong to demonize Chinese tourists or label them as low-quality travelers who deserve inferior treatment, as some media organizations have tried to convey in the way they reported on the two posts.

In fact, it was confirmed the shrimp video was shot two years ago, and the plates filled with untouched shrimp were suspected of being placed on the table after the diners left. Many Chinese tourists, who are familiar with the restaurant, explained the travel agencies only give them half an hour for the meal, during which hundreds of tourists have to elbow their way into the restaurant, only two spatulas were provided to put the shrimps on plates.

Tourists from Japan and South Korea were also depicted as rude in the 1960s and 1970s when their economies developed and they started traveling abroad. Chinese tourists are going through similar growing pains. Their quality has improved over recent years, and they have become more aware of respecting local customs and behaving themselves. They are now attaching more importance to their experiences when traveling. Foreign businesspeople seeking to fleece Chinese travelers will finally be punished by market laws and lose the world's fastest-growing source of tourists.
Student lunches are prepared at a junior school canteen in Ganzhou district, Zhangye city of Gansu province. [Photo/Xinhua]

BASED ON their monthly consumption in the university canteen, which is the cheapest place for them to eat, students from poor families at Nanjing University of Science and Technology, can now directly receive subsidies without applying for them or having their applications disclosed. Beijing News on Saturday applauded such "off-the-record" subsidies:

By subsidizing financially disadvantaged students in this way, Nanjing University of Science and Technology is demonstrating a more considerate and targeted approach.

By extending subsidies to students based on their monthly consumption in the university canteen, it is offering support to those in need without drawing any undue attention to them.

The University of Science and Technology of China, which is located in Hefei, East China's Anhui province, began doing this in 2005, and no students have dropped out of their courses over the past ten 10 years because of financial difficulties.

That an increasing number of Chinese colleges and high schools are seeking more considerate ways to subsidize disadvantaged students has a lot to do with their determination to respect the dignity of students from poorer families. This is in stark contrast to some schools, which disclose the information, including home addresses and photos, of subsidized students without their consent.

Of course, "secretly" funding some students in need is not perfect, as there might be loopholes in supervision.

And it is possible a student may deliberately increase his or her purchases in a university or school canteen in pursuit of a subsidy. That requires the school authorities enhance their supervision to make sure the subsidies are properly and fairly spent.
Obstetric nurses in the Central Hospital of Enshi, Hubei province, take care of newborns at the hospital. [Li Yuanyuan / for China Daily]

FEMALE EMPLOYEES IN BEIJING are now entitled to an extra 30 days maternity leave, according to a revised family planning regulation adopted by the capital on Thursday. Beijing Times said on Friday:

The new regulation, which is based on the revised national Law on Population and Family Planning adopted on Jan 1, said that with the consent of their employers all female employees in Beijing who give birth are entitled to one to three months in addition to the 98 days leave mandated by the national law.

However, many female employees still have concerns about whether their employers will approve the extended leave or not, especially at a time when some of their other legal interests are not sufficiently protected.

Beijing's latest regulation on family planning is praiseworthy as an official pledge to better safeguard women's legal rights. But it is possible that a female worker will be marginalized after her maternity leave, or cold-shouldered during her pregnancy, especially in companies which turn a blind eye to the regulations protecting workers' rights. Not all employers are unreasonable, and many take the labor laws and regulations seriously, but there are some unscrupulous enterprises or those that are facing operational difficulties, who will be reluctant to grant their female workers the extra leave.

In fact, the new maternity leave, which can range from one to three months, leaves enough wiggle room for employees and employers to negotiate. In other words, with the consent of their employers, female employees can have their extra leave, which is designed to "maintain the physical and psychological health of mothers and their babies, considering the burden on the social security fund and employers".

Pregnant employees in developed economies such as the United Kingdom and Germany, enjoy much longer leave of 12 months, so do fathers in some countries.

In the long run, China should not stop short of extending maternity leave and it is also supposed to extend paternity leave and subsidize pregnant women and their spouses during such leave.
A customs officer holds part of a cache of 'blood ivory' before it was destroyed in Colombo on Tuesday. [Photo/Agencies]

TWO CHINESE IVORY POACHERS, who were caught in possession of more than 700 elephant tusks in Tanzania, were each sentenced to 30 years in prison or a fine of about $23 million. Tao Duanfang, a columnist, commented on Saturday:

That the two Chinese ivory smugglers refused to acknowledge their offenses or accept the sentence, to some extent, points to the fact that local wildlife resources in many African countries, although abundant, are not under proper protection.

Some see the African elephants, for example, as tradable and profitable goods; some even resent them for destroying their farmland.

Despite the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, which took effect in 1975 and which China joined in 1981, Chinese tourists with ivory items can always manage to bypass the security checks in Africa.

The bigger irony is that they would face stricter checks when they enter China.

There is good news, though, as some Eastern African states including Tanzania and Kenya, have imposed harsher punishments on ivory smugglers, some of whom are Chinese.

Tanzania's latest sentence involving two Chinese poachers demonstrates that justice, although belatedly done for the sake of local wildlife, is now a major concern for some African countries.

For years, a number of African countries, suffering from poverty and underdevelopment, preferred to trade local natural resources for tangible wealth, disregarding the need to protect their wild fauna and flora.

Some Africans even deemed environmental and wildlife protection as a privilege of the rich and a hindrance to improving their lives. It is thus a notable leap for them to take into account better protection of endangered species.

As a long-time contributor to various African economies, China has every reason to protect its good image from being tarnished by some smugglers and their illegal activities in Africa. It is time for China to take actions to raise awareness of the issue.
A boy tries an iPad at an outlet of Apple Inc in Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province. [Photo/China Daily]

The insanely high housing high prices in so-called school districts reflect the unfair allocation of educational resources in China's big cities. Parents' desire to get the best education for their children forces them to buy a house near "good" schools so that they can get them admitted there.

Housing prices in such school districts will return to normal only when the authorities strike a balance in the allocation of education resources. But that will not happen overnight.

The Ministry of Education recently announced that it would promote a multi-school-admission policy, meaning people living in one area of a city can get their children admitted to a school in another area. The existing rule says children living in a certain area can get admission to schools only in their neighborhood, which is the reason behind the rising housing prices in residential areas with "good" schools.

But the multi-school-admission policy is only a transitional measure, which, without long-term planning and effective enforcement, is not likely to succeed in the long term.

When education resources are not fairly and effectively allocated, it is natural for parents who can afford to pay high property prices to look for a house in "good" school districts. It's another matter that their behavior is affecting the school admission process.

Therefore, the government has to take measures to streamline the school admission process to ensure every child benefits from the compulsory schooling policy. For example, the government should correct the existing imbalance in the distribution of education resources, which will help restore order to the school admission process.

In the places where educational resources are relatively balanced, students can go to the nearest school. The multi-school-admission policy could be introduced, for one to two years, in places where there is an imbalance in the allocation of education resources. And the policy could be withdrawn after balance is restored.

Besides, monitoring and supervision should be strict in areas where the multi-school-admission policy is introduced, and decisions should be made in an open and transparent manner with the involvement of all parties concerned.

The education authorities should also make proper arrangements to help students who cannot get admitted to "good" schools by getting them enrolled in other schools after listening to their parents' grievances. This way, the authorities can show that they are taking effective measures to narrow the gap between schools and create equal opportunities for all. The key to the success of the multi-school-admission policy will be devising innovative ways to promote equality in education.

For people living areas where the multi-school-admission policy is introduced, they should view the opportunity offered their children rationally and not make a beeline to get them admitted to as many institutions as possible, because that will create a new type of problem. They must remember that a school is not good just because of its name. The most important thing is whether children will get proper attention in such a school and whether they can adjust to its environment.

The more suitable a child is for a school, the more his or her potential can be fulfilled in the future. And once education resources are allocated fairly, a single- or multiple-admission policy will not matter much.

The author is a senior researcher at the National Institute of Education Sciences.
A growing number of Chinese tourists are helping to save a dying Australian town, after a little-known tourist attraction was featured on a number of Chinese travel blogs.

The residents of Sea Lake, a town of just 600 people in the Australian state of Victoria, barely sees travelers stop at their gas station while driving by, but a sudden influx of Chinese tourists is helping keep the town's economy alive.

The tourists come to see Lake Tyrrella shallow, salt crusted and often dry lake just out of town, as it provides a stunning backdrop for photographers looking to shoot the Milky Way.

Local teacher Rachel Pearce says the stunning nightscapecombined with the eerie appearance of stars reflected on the salt lakegives the impression you are walking among the stars.

"The night skies here are reputably some of the best in the southern hemisphere, anywhere in the world really," she told the Australian Broadcasting Corp.

The town is so isolated that no light pollution ruins the spectacular views, and as it is situated in a barren, dry part of the country, there are rarely any clouds to spoil the night sky.

The attraction's growing cult status has resulted in the town's motel rooms being full almost every night, and while local farmers are suffering in a two-year drought, tourism is keeping the town's ailing agricultural-based economy afloat.

Tourist Joseph Lee, along with 10 other stargazers, made the trip from Sydney, as he wanted to see a different side of Australia.

"I wanted to go to some of the places without too many tourists," Lee told the ABC.

"We'll go to the not-so-popular places to give my friends some new idea of what Australia looks like."

Alice Lee, from Hong Kong, says it was hard to find scenery like that in Sea Lake anywhere else in the world.

"I see the beauty of the scenes and the different changes in the skies, the clouds and over the sun," Lee says.

"That's why we want to go."

Despite the popularity of the town and its attraction, locals are still confused as to why their little town deserves so much attention. Sea Lake's population has fallen from around 1,200 a decade ago to 600 today.

"We're still unsure why Lake Tyrrell is such a big, big tourist attraction," one local says.

"It's quite a shock."
Cunard cruise line will enter Chinese market in 2017, starting to operate a seven-night roundtrip loop from Shanghai with the line's flagship, Queen Mary 2.

Queen Mary 2 will sail out a seven-night roundtrip loop from Shanghai in 2017. [ Photo provided to China Daily ]

The company said on March 26 that this marks the first time Cunard has conducted a loop from any Chinese cruise port. The seven-night roundtrip will start from Shanghai and visit destinations in South Korea and Japan.

Cunard Line is a British-American cruise line based at Carnival House in Southampton, England, celebrating 175 years of operation in 2015.

To catch the wave of travelers expected to sail out of China over the next few years, cruise lines are investing heavily in new and remodeled ships, and, in some cases, are relocating their most modern and luxurious ships to China ports.

Shanghai is the most important homeport for cruise ships in China, which handled 320 homeport cruise calls and nearly 1.6 million homeport passenger trips in 2015.

Princess Cruises, the third largest cruise line in the world and part of Carnival Corporation & Plc, announced in February the expansion of its presence in China by launching a new homeport in Xiamen, Fujian province, this year, and debuting the cruise ship Majestic Princess that is specially tailored for the China market in 2017, with its homeport in Shanghai.

The total number of Chinese homeport cruise ship travelers reached 2.22 million passenger trips in 2015, and China's cruise industry is set to grow faster in the next decade, according to the 2015 China Cruise Industry Development Report published in February.
NEW DELHI - A five-member Pakistani team Monday met officials of India's anti-terror National Investigation Agency in Delhi as it began its probe into the terror attack at the Pathankot air base in the northern state of Punjab in January this year, sources said.

"The National Investigation Agency shared information about the terror attack with the Pakistani team, which includes Pakistani military intelligence and police officials, during the meeting. The Pakistani team is to travel to Pathankot Tuesday to continue its probe," the sources said.

The probe team, which was formed on directions of Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, will be allowed to question witnesses, but not security personnel, and it will also be given limited access to the Pathankot air base, the sources said.

This is for the first time that a Pakistani probe team has been allowed to come to India to investigate a terror attack, with New Delhi hoping that Islamabad will reciprocate the gesture at a later date, the sources said.

The Pakistani team arrived in India Sunday to investigate the terror strike on the strategic air base in Punjab, in which seven Indian military personnel were killed while neutralising six terrorists who had on Jan 2 launched the attack on the air base that houses Indian Air Force's fighter jets and other high-value Indian Air Force assets.
BEIJING - A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday that China hopes Japan will do much more for regional peace and stability.

Spokesperson Hong Lei made the remarks in response to reports that Japan on Monday had switched on a radar station on Yonaguni Island in Okinawa Prefecture. The new Self Defence Force base on the island of Yonaguni is only about 150 km from China's Diaoyu Islands.

"China has a clear and consistent stance on the East China Sea and Diaoyu Islands issues," Hong said, expressing his hope that Japan can do more to benefit regional peace and stability.

When asked to comment on Japan's controversial new security-related legislation, which will become effective Tuesday, Hong said that due to historical reasons, military and security policy moves by Japan have been watched closely by the country's Asian neighbors and the international community.

The new security legislation gives the green light to Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to engage in armed conflicts overseas for the first time since the end of WWII.

"We hope the Japanese side learns from the hard lessons of history, sticks to the path of peaceful development, acts with discretion on military and security issues and does more to enhance mutual trust with neighbors and to benefit regional peace and stability," Hong said.
Vice-Premier Liu Yandong (left) and Ahraf Al-Shihy, minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Egypt, meet representatives of the National Research Center and Egyptian scientists. [Photo by Hou Liqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

Vice-Premier Liu Yandong called for strengthening cooperation in science and technology with Egypt during a visit to the country's National Research Center on Monday.

Liu asked for the establishment of more platforms and the creation of more opportunities to facilitate cooperation between young scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs from both countries. She also called for the sharing of more ideas and experiences in science and technology innovation policies, development planning of industrial technology and commercialization of research findings.

She also encouraged scientific research institutions, universities and enterprises on both sides to establish joint laboratories to promote high-level scientific research.

China will offer 50 more opportunities for young Egyptian scientists to work in China, she announced.

Under a Chinese government program, young Egyptian scientists under the age of 45 can go to China and work in scientific research institutes, universities or enterprises as visiting scholars for six months or a whole year. They receive $ 2,000 per month for salary and living expenses. So far, 17 Egyptian scientists have been offered this opportunity.

Essam Khamis, Egypt's deputy minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, spoke highly of the program and said it could "facilitate cooperation and communication of scientists of the two countries" and "improve Egyptian scientists' capacity for scientific research".
Chinese ambassador says Xi's Prague trip will be a landmark moment in China-Europe relations

President Xi Jinping's visit to the Czech Republic is of both "strategic and pragmatic" significance, as it is designed to boost political trust and synergize their agendas and economic priorities, according to the Chinese ambassador.

"Based on my understanding of the status of bilateral relations and the detailed arrangements for Xi's visit, it will be a trailblazing event for both sides," said Ma Keqing in an exclusive interview with China Daily.

The Czech Republic is the only country Xi will visit before he attends the World Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, DC. Czech President Milos Zeman visited China in September and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka visited in November.

Ma said that, in the past two years, relations have been "accelerating" with more frequent high-level dialogues, unprecedented trade and investment, and growing people-to-people exchanges.

"Our relations are in the best period ever," she said in Prague.

Xi's visit to the Czech Republic is the first by a Chinese president since the two sides established diplomatic ties, as well as his first trip to Central and Eastern Europe since taking office in 2013.

"This visit has attracted a lot of attention," Ma said. "It will become a landmark visit to boost relations with Central and Eastern Europe."

She said the visit aims to boost pragmatic cooperation by seeking synergies in each other's megaprojects to implement China's Belt and Road Initiative.

"The Czechs have responded actively to echo President Xi's Belt and Road Initiative to boost connectivity. They have treated it as a chance to take on China's train of development and further stimulate its economy."

In November, when Sobotka visited Beijing, both countries signed an agreement to cooperate on the initiative. It is expected that both countries will devise an action plan to further deepen cooperation in this regard during Xi's visit.

Following on from Pakistan, Indonesia, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Hungary, Poland and other countries, the Czech Republic is expected to become a new forerunner in the Belt and Road Initiative, which Xi proposed three years ago. Official figures show more than 70 countries have agreed to join this initiative, and more than 30 countries have signed cooperation agreements.

"The Czech Republic is a European power in terms of manufacturing and industry, and there is great potential for both sides to work together to improve connectivity," Ma said.

The country has also proposed making Prague China's financial center for Central and Eastern Europe, which the ambassador said has been welcomed. She added that China is also willing to discuss the feasibility of setting up a renminbi settlement mechanism in the Czech capital.

"Such a mechanism is necessary as trade and investment between China and countries in Central and Eastern Europe are growing rapidly," she said.

Ma said she is confident both countries will deepen cooperation in various areas because there is a strong political will, vision and courage.

"The people in both countries have already boosted mutual understanding. A recent poll shows more than 70 percent of Czechs support further development of the bilateral relationship."

fujing@chinadaily.com.cn
President Xi Jinping leaves Beijing for an historic visit to the Czech Republic on Monday morning.



The three-day trip will be the first state visit by a Chinese president either to the Czech Republic or the former Czechoslovakia in 67 years  since the founding of the People's Republic of China.



Shortly after he arrives in Prague, Xi will be greeted by Zeman at the Lany chateau, west of Prague, where the two presidents will plant a tree, according to the Czech Presidential Office.

Xi will be the first foreign president to be welcomed at the chateau, the country residence of the Czech president.

Xi is scheduled to meet with Czech President Milos Zeman and Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka for formal talks on Tuesday.

The release of a joint declaration on a strategic partnership is expected to be the main outcome of the visit. About 20 agreements ranging from investment, finance, aviation to healthcare are expected to be signed. Zeman has said that he expects Chinese investment of 45 billion crowns ($1.84 billion).

The Czech News Agency reported that the joint declaration will include enhancing cooperation on finance, including the Czech Republic's interest in becoming a center for Chinese financial institutions in the region.
NEW YORK - China has played an important role in international nuclear security cooperation, a US nuclear expert told Xinhua in a recent interview.

"China has made significant progress on its nuclear security system and significant contributions to global nuclear security," said Hui Zhang, senior research associate with the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University.

Zhang made the remarks shortly before the fourth Nuclear Security Summit (NSS), which is scheduled to take place in Washington, from March 31 to April 1.

Zhang noted that as active participants of the NSS, Chinese leaders have showed strong awareness of the significance of the nuclear security cooperation between countries.

"At the 2014 Nuclear Security Summit, President Xi Jinping stressed that increased cooperation regarding the nuclear security of one country is beneficial to all nations," Zhang said.

He said that, as Xi pointed out, "The amount of water a bucket can hold is determined by its shortest plank. The loss of nuclear material in one country can be a threat to the whole world."

The NSS, initiated by US President Barack Obama, first took place in Washington in 2010 with an aim to prevent nuclear terrorism around the globe. It was followed by additional summits in Seoul of South Korea in 2012, and The Hague of the Netherlands in 2014.

Xi pledged at The Hague Summit that China will unswervingly enhance its nuclear security capabilities, contribute to the establishment of an international nuclear security system, support international cooperation and safeguard regional and world peace and stability.

Zhang pointed out that the great achievements China has made in nuclear security during the past few years were in accordance with the Chinese president's words.

China has established "a security approach based on a design basis threat (DBT)" and "an application of modern concepts of physical protection, based on systems-engineering approaches to analyzing vulnerabilities and designing defenses to address them," said Zhang, who is currently working with Project on Managing the Atom at Harvard.

The country has also established the use of modern physical protection, material control and material accounting technologies as well as requirements for in-depth vulnerability assessments of security systems, according to the expert.

Earlier this year, China released its first white paper on Nuclear Emergency Preparedness, detailing policies and measures relating to nuclear emergency preparedness and highlighting a "rational, coordinated and balanced" nuclear security approach.

The white paper reviewed China's safety record since nuclear activities began in the mid-1950s, saying that nuclear facilities and activities had always been "in a safe and stable state" and safety at nuclear power stations was in a state of constant improvement.

Meanwhile, the nuclear security cooperation between China and major countries has also been greatly strengthened over the past decade, Zhang said.

He emphasized China-US cooperation in particular, saying it comprises "in-depth training and discussion workshops on everything from approaches to the design of physical protection systems, to steps to strengthen security culture, and cooperation to build a Center of Excellence (CoE) on Nuclear Security."

The CoE, whose construction started in 2013, will be the biggest nuclear security international exchange, training and demonstration center in the Asia-Pacific Region once completed this year, according to official documents.

Looking into the future, Zhang said such bilateral cooperation "should continue and grow stronger" against the background of a world that remains haunted by the specter of nuclear proliferation and even nuclear terrorism.

Figures from the International Atomic Energy Agency, the world's nuclear watchdog, showed that more than 100 cases of loss or theft of radioactive substances are reported every year.

Zhang believed China could take greater responsibilities in global nuclear security with growing capacities.

"It is imperative (for China) to maintain and further strengthen the global nuclear security cooperation. For example, China and the United States can launch in-depth discussion and best practice exchanges on how to increase international assurance about nuclear security conditions," Zhang said.

"They can also conduct joint exercises to strengthen coordinated response in the event of a nuclear terrorism or nuclear smuggling event," the expert added.
Jiri Rusnok, former Czech prime minister [Photo by Fu Jing/chinadaily.com.cn]

Former prime minister of the Czech Republic Jiri Rusnok has never visited China but many Chinese cities and names of businesses are in his mind.

When President Xi Jinping flies to the Czech Republic for the state visit from March 28-30, Rusnok said it is time for his country to catch up to deepen cooperation in "all areas", following the steps of its European peers.

"In many areas, the bilateral relationship is not as good as it could be in for different years. Many of our peers are much advanced ahead of us," said Rusnok, who is going to be Czech governor of Central Bank soon.

"I am sure this will boost our relationship in all areas," said Rusnok about the visit, adding that the relationship will be deepened from business to culture, health, education, research, transport to science cooperation.

Rusnok said in Prague that the visit offers many opportunities as there are untapped potentials to boost cooperation further.

But Hungary, Poland and Western European powers such as Germany, France and recently UK have already set up strategic cooperation partnership with China.

"So it seems we are catching up something we missed in the recent decade and I welcome the progress made by my president and prime minister during the recent two or three years," he says

Rusnok said the reasons behind the changes are natural development inside Czech politics and the majority of the political representatives have realized that their country had missed some opportunities in developing relationship with China and gaining more Chinese market.

"We definitely, in my opinion, made some mistakes in the past. So there are some pragmatic approaches from us. I am glad of that," he said.

"And we are following our partners in European Union and they are a few years ahead us."

Asked if the Czech Republic should consider joining the Asia Infrastructural Investment Bank, he said the Czech Republic should do so as many of its European Union peers did it.

"I am sure that if we join, facilitating our businesses to win tenders of some projects financed by this bank is possible," says Rusnok.

He said it is very obvious Asia and East Europe are regions with high development potentials.

"So I think we should not miss this opportunity. So I think the Czech government should consider this opportunity to join the bank," said Rusnok. "But I am not sure whether it will be discussed or not during President Xi's visit."

As to the cooperation, Rusnok said both sides should consider transport as one of priorities because of European gateway location of the Czech Republic, which links East Asia and Europe.

"And Prague airport still has potentials for both passenger and cargo transport," he says.

Rusnok said after direct fight between Beijing and Prague, another one between Chengdu and Prague is under consideration while Prague is trying to link Shanghai by direct flight.

"Chengdu airport is an interesting place for us as it is still has capacity compared with Beijing and Shanghai," said Rusnok.

Chengdu, according to him, is an ideal transfer airport for the Europeans to travel to Southeast Asia or South Asia.

For example, he said every year, more than 300,000 Czechs visit Thailand and if only 20 percent use this line via Chengdu that will help this flight line become economically feasible.

And cargo transport is also encouraging. As many Asian investors have launched their businesses in Czech's manufacturing and industrial areas, which are very competitive.

"They need to transport electronic parts from China and so cargo transport via aviation is also important," he said.

As to whether Czech should consider involving China to build high-speed railway, Rusnok said Czech is underdeveloped in this area and there should be long-term intention to consider such programs.

He said the Czech Republic knows that China is helping developing such programs in other Central and Eastern European countries.

"We will take this as kind of reference project and reach further into the Central Europe if it is successful," said Rusnok.
Former president of the Czech Republic Vaclav Klaus said Xi's visit is "of historic significance." It shows that both sides are serious about developing strategic relationship.

"This visit is significant for us and also China should feel it is in its strategic interests in developing such high-profile relations with a European country like the Czech Republic," said Claus during an interview with China Daily prior to Xi's visit.

Vaclav Klaus, former Czech president

He was president of the Czech Republic during 2003-13 and acted as prime minister for a long time. He set up a research institute in suburban Prague on global affairs after his retirement.

Klaus said he has paid visits to China several times and it is logical for his country to start engaging China.

In 1993, the Czech Republic and Slovakia had split. Klaus said it is natural that the Czech Republic should develop sound relationship with neighbors first and so it has been inward looking for quite a long time.

And trade with European countries amounts to nearly 80 percent of its total volume right now.

"Xi's visit is logical development of the situation. I myself have good relationship with China," said Klaus.

"But we used to be more inward looking, concentrated in Europe, on our tasks, on domestic agenda after the Czech Republic was set up in 1993 during the dramatic years of political and social systems changes."

He said the Czech Republic was busy setting good relations with neighboring countries first.

"Now it is for us to keep closer ties with China as well," he said.

Klaus said the Czech Republic takes Xi's visit seriously.

"And when President Xi decided to visit, we found that China is also very serious in recognizing the role of the Czech Republic in Sino-EU relationship framework," Klaus said.

"We are happy that President Xi does not only visit UK, France, Germany but the Czech Republic as well; and finally, he arrives to the heart of Europe, geographically."

Klaus said countries in Central and Eastern Europe used to have similar political systems and it is relatively easy for these countries to better understand China, compared with other countries in Europe.

Klaus said he is optimistic about China's economic outlook, adding that the slowdown of China economy is discussed frequently in Europe and the United States.

"I am a firm opponent of this topic. When China is achieving reaching 6-8 percent growth, the continent that has had roughly zero rate of growth for long period of time dares to call it slowdown," said Klaus.

Klaus said he knows that China faces many challenges but the debate should not be about growth rate itself. "And the debate should be about whether China will bring positive growth and my answer is yes," he said.
Ten years ago, when Jiri Paroubek was prime minister of the Czech Republic, he was visionary enough to fly to Beijing and held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao to strengthen business relationship with China. And China's TV manufacturing company Changhong had set up a new factory then, which was part of the success he helped achieve.

After he stepped down in September 2006, the politicians in the Czech Republic were mainly inward looking and up to now, its trade volume within European Union still amounts for the lion's share of the total. In recent two or three years, the Czech Republic has once again renewed such efforts in deepening economic and trade relationship with China.

"I am very happy with this change, following my talks with Chinese leadership to consider strategic partnership 10 year ago," said Paroubek during an interview with China Daily.

Paroubek said he appreciate the "courage and visions" of leaders of both sides to consider upgrade the relationship to a strategic level and President Xi Jinping's visit will be warmly welcomed and bring tremendous positive changes to the bilateral relationship.

Paroubek says said Xi is a "visionary, serious and down-to-earth" global politician and he knows very well what Chinese people need most. "President Xi has made great efforts in fighting corruption and keeping Chinese economy on track, which has already impressed me."

And what has also impressed him is Xi's visionary capacity in guiding China to the global stage by taking proactive steps to engage the world and contribute to the world's development. "And this is clearly seen by the world regarding China's contribution," he says.

Jiri Paroubek, former Czech prime minister

Paroubek said his country is ready to cooperate with China, especially in boosting bilateral trade, though its trading partners currently are mainly in Europe. He said that the industrial competitiveness in the Czech Republic is very strong and the quality of its products could compare to those made in Germany, which has become far more forward than the Czech Republic in terms of trade relationship.

"We have the same quality (as those of made in Germany) but our prices are lower. So we need to catch up to boost imports to China," said Paroubek.

Paroubek said the Czech Republic should make even greater efforts to find synergies with China's One Belt and One Road initiative but he admitted that it is a mistake that the Czech Republic has not become a founding member of Asia Infrastructural Investment Bank (AIIB).

"I hope we can do something in this regard to catch up," he said.

Apart from possible engagement with AIIB, Paroubek also said it is meaningful if both sides consider cooperation on building high-speed railway in the Czech Republic and also improving logistics and cargo transport.

Paroubek said both countries should go beyond business and try to explore opportunities in music, painting, arts, films and enrich the minds of the people of each countries.

Paroubek also said this visit is vital for China to boost the relationship with countries in Central and East Europe. "This is first time he is coming to this region after histaking office as president and I am sure this visit will be very important to boost the relationship with countries in Central and East Europe," said Paroubek.

Paroubek also believes that President Xi will be delivering some message to European Union. He said it is of great importance to boost Beijing-Brussels relationship but in many fronts, Brussels is influenced by Washington.

"We can see European Union lacks independence as some of its policies, such as refugees, Ukraine crisis and the relations with Russia, are influenced by the United States," said Paroubek.

As to China's market economy status, Paroubek said European Union should recognize this status, recognize China's economic contribution globally and recognize China's contribution to European development during previous decades. "The West should know these every well and recognize them," said Paroubek. "But for some reasons, the United Sates is still exerting its influence towards European Union."
Jan Kohout, an adviser to Czech President Milos Zeman on Chinese matters [Photo by Fu Jing/chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative is essentially a peace project, which has surpassed economic benefits and is connecting people of different countries, said Jan Kohout, an adviser to Czech President Milos Zeman on Chinese matters.

Kohout made the comments before Xi's three-day visit to the Czech Republic.

"President Xi's Belt and Road Initiative is a solution for the world to walk out of wars and conflicts and bring about prosperity. It is not only about business but focuses on bringing people closer, leading to better communication and cooperation," said Kohout during an interview with China Daily.

"The world is filled with troubles and challenges ranging from those in the Middle East, Syria, Afghanistan, and North Africa. And avoiding misunderstanding and conflicts are essential and in my understanding this is basically what this initiative is about."

Calling Xi as "Father of Belt and Road Initiative, Kohout, who has been foreign minister of Czech twice, said this initiative is political but China has no geopolitical consideration. "China is not pushing each country to join, and China is not putting pressure. This is mutual. It is up to every county to decide."

Based on his long-time engagement with Chinese leaders, businesses, academia, Kohout has set up New Silk Road Institute Prague in September 2015 in response to the ongoing and accelerating geopolitical and economic changes in the world.

Kohout said his institute, above all, is similar to the connotation of Xi's proposal, which aims to assist in building better world of communication, not the world of purposeless confrontation.

Kohout said under the framework of One Belt and One Road Initiative, his institute will create positive environment for cooperation and offer suggestions to the leaders and governments of both sides.

He believes that the driving forces behind the New Silk Road are definitely the economic benefits for both continents and that increase connectivity between Asia and Europe, such as high-speed railways, network of highways, smart air and sea infrastructure and high-speed data networks and sustainable energy infrastructure.

"Nevertheless, this idea should not be reduced to economic benefits only. We should not understate the importance and effects it has on areas such as education, culture, mutual understanding and ideological interactions," said Kohout. "All these are integral components of the new grand project design."

And the institute will focus on more specific areas and give more concrete suggestions especially on feasible infrastructural and logistic projects, financial cooperation, energy technology.

"We focus on highway, high-speed train and infrastructural prospects and also focus on soft projects. This is what we aim for. But right now, we are looking forward to President Xi Jinping's visit, which is historic for us," said Kohout.

Calling his institute a pioneer in Europe, he said during Xi's visit, both sides will look deeper to cooperate on Belt and Road Initiative.

Kohout said President Zeman has visited China and he is great supporter and promoter of Czech-China relations and he strongly supports Belt and Road Initiative.

"Czech government, businesses have also shown strong support on this initiative. So all these are very encouraging," he says. "So we can start to implement more focused projects on infrastructure, trade, finance, for example."

As to the high-speed railway, Kohout said his president was impressed by China's high-speed train from Tianjin to Beijing and other officials were also impressed by this bullet vehicle.

"They have believed it is high-end technology and there is no doubt about Chinese companies' competitiveness in building the railway," said Kohout. "And technology is needed not only here but also in Central Europe."

He said now China is helping start to construct high-speed railway between Budapest and Belgrade and possibly this railway will also aim to extend southward and northward.

He said the Czech Republic and Germany are going to build high-speed railway between Germany city Dresden to Prague, reducing the Dresden - Prague journey time from 2h 15min to just 50 minutes.

"This is a small start but it is difficult to implement big infrastructure projects due to environmental impact assessment and the public joining decision making," said Kohout.

But if Chinese companies should want to invest in such projects in Europe, he said they should come two or three years earlier than the tender is open. "It is important to get involved locally before you jump in the sky for tendering," said Kohout.

As to the Czechs not joining AIIB as founding member, Kohout said it was a big mistake.

"I will create positive atmosphere to keep this on government agenda to become part of AIIB. I will bring more arguments to keep it still alive and explain to experts, to the members of parliaments," said Kohout. "I am optimistic and will work on that."
Vojtech Filip, Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic [Photo by Fu Jing/chinadaily.com.cn]

A senior Czech politician said President Xi Jinping's visit to his country has shown it is recognizing this European country's role in helping boost Sino-EU relationship and build a multi-polar world, which is in the interests of the Czech Republic.

"We believe President Xi's visit is a milestone event in our bilateral relationship dating back 67 years ago and we aim to build a strategic partnership in 21st century, with focus on shaping the multi-polar world," said Vojtech Filip, Deputy Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, during an interview with China Daily prior to Xi's visit.

Xi is scheduled to meet Filip and other parliamentary and party leaders in the Czech Republic during his visit from March 28-30 before his departure for the United Sates for World Nuclear Security Summit.

Filip, chairman of the Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia, which is the biggest party of Czech Parliament and has 42,000 members, has met Xi before when he visited China and he is looking forward to exchanging ideas with him.

Filip said Xi is a man of vision, with tremendous knowledge of Europe and world situation and he is sophisticated in communicating with people.

"He is a man with charisma and I think 90 percent of our Czechs like him and are looking forward to his visit," said Filip, adding that his first talk with Xi took place in 2011 at a meeting in Beijing, when Xi was vice-president of China.

"He is confident, visionary and has a lot of ideas."

As to the visit, Filip looks at it as starting point after the two countries forged close relationship in 1950s and Czech was among the first group of countries to recognize New China.

He said that is foundation for the bilateral relationship.

Filip said the Czech President Milos Zeman has started to forge closer relationship after 1990s and especially when he was prime minister. And now, after Zeman was elected as president in 2013, the two sides have accelerated the paces in building closer relationship.

"Obviously, both president and prime minister have taken a closer relationship with China as priority and during previous three years, Czech and China have had important meetings and visits among top leaders. It is important for us," said Filip.

"And we look forward to new dimensions of bilateral relationship announced during Xi's visit. And it will be a new chapter for us."

He said the strategic partnership of both sides will be forged in 21st century, in which multi-polar world is key.

China and European Union are essential parts of this multi-polar world and Czech has shown strong support for China to deepen relationship with EU.

And it is obvious that China has played a responsible and active role in the world and Xi Jinping's Belt and Road initiative has shown China's solutions to offer "economic foundation" of a peaceful world.

He said Xi's visit to Czech is happening 70 years after the end of World War Two. "And it is meaningful to think about how the global powers contribute to the world peace and China has set a constructive example," said Filip.
When President Xi decided to visit, we found that China is also very serious in recognizing the role of the Czech Republic in the China-EU relationship framework. We are happy that President Xi not only visits the UK, France and Germany but the Czech Republic as well.

Vaclav Klaus, former Czech president

President Xi is a visionary, a serious and down-to-earth global politician, who knows very well what Chinese people need most. He has made great efforts in fighting corruption and keeping the Chinese economy on track, which has impressed me.

Jiri Paroubek, former Czech prime minister

President Zeman has visited China, is a great supporter and promoter of Czech-China relations and strongly backs the Belt and Road Initiative. The Czech government and businesses have also shown strong support for this initiative proposed by President Xi.

Jan Kohout, former foreign minister and an adviser to Czech President Milos Zeman on Chinese affairs

Both countries are working toward boosting the bilateral relationship to a strategic level while identifying each other's cooperation priorities. China and the Czech Republic aim to deliver an action plan for the Belt and Road Initiative, after signing a memorandum of understanding last year.

Jaroslav Tvrdik, special affairs adviser to the Czech leadership and a former defense minister

China is willing to deepen financial cooperation-using both nations' currencies for trade and investment-and to discuss the feasibility of setting up a renminbi settlement mechanism in Prague.... A recent poll in the Czech Republic found that more than 70 percent of Czechs support further developing the bilateral relationship.

Ma Keqing, China's ambassador to the Czech Republic

(China Daily 03/28/2016 page1)
Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Lubomir Zaoralek (L)) welcomes Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) at Prague, Czech Republic, March 28, 2016. [Photo by Lan Hongguang/Xinhua]

President Xi Jinping arrived at Prague's international airport at about 2 pm local time (8 pm in China) today for an historic three-day visit.

It's the first time that a Chinese president has paid a state visit to the Czech Republic since the two countries established diplomatic ties 67 years ago. Xi's plane was escorted by two Czech fighter jets when it entered the country's airspace.

In a written statement released shortly after Xi's arrival, the Chinese president said that through this visit, he hopes to boost political trust and promote pragmatic cooperation with the Czech Republic.

During the visit, the top leaders of the two countries will hold talks and exchange views on issues including developing strategic connections in pushing forward China-proposed Belt and Road constructions, improving bilateral ties and enhancing China-Central and East European Countries cooperation, according to the statement.

"I believe that with the joint efforts of both sides, the visit will definitely be successful and it will lay the basis for the future development of China-Czech ties," Xi said in the statement.

According to the schedule released by the Czech Presidential Office, the Chinese delegation will meet Czech President Milos Zeman at the Lany chateau, west of Prague, this afternoon. The two presidents together will plant a tree and unveil a commemorative plaque in the chateau.

During the visit, Xi will meet with Czech Senate Chairman Milan Stech, Chamber of Deputies Chairman Jan Hamacek, Prime Minister Bohuslav Sobotka and Prague Mayor Adriana Krnacova. He also will meet business people and investors.

After finishing the visit, Xi will fly to the United States on Wednesday afternoon to attend the fourth Nuclear Security Summit, which is to be held from Thursday to Friday.
(Photo : (Photo by China Photos/Getty Images))

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Chinese couples in Beijing are now allowed to have two children while female employees can already enjoy longer maternity leave.



Basing on the revised National Law on Population and Family Planning adopted on Jan. 1, the regulation has put an end to the previous policy that mandated most Chinese couples living in the urban areas to only have one child.



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It can be noted as well that the amended regulation provided the right for every female employee in Beijing to enjoy a total of 128 days of maternity leave. This comprises the 98 days mandatory maternity leave as stipulated in the national law, and the additional 30 offered by the Beijing regulation.



In the past, only those female employees who give birth to their first child at the age of not less than 24 can avail of the additional 30 days of maternity leave.



Apart from this, it was also pointed out in the new policy that women employees could also apply for another one to three months of leave should their employers allow them.



According to Beijing Legal Affairs Office chief Liu Zhengang, as shared by China Daily, the public submitted more than 4,100 suggestions relative to the then draft law. Such were presented to the city's top legislature, the Beijing People's Congress, thereafter.



He added that the said move to extend the maternity leave was aimed to "maintain the physical and psychological health of mothers and their babies, considering the burden on the social security fund and employers."



Another feature of the Beijing regulation, which extended the maternity leave for women employees, was the giving of 15 days leave for their husbands after their baby has been born.







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TagsBeijing, maternity leave, One Child Policy, National Law on Population and Family Planning
(Photo : Getty Images) US Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has been vandalized repeatedly by people who do not agree with the real estate's mogul's contentious opinions.

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Throughout his campaign for the US presidency, Donald trump has repeatedly promised to fight against China through economic policies. Now the former reality star appears to be open to war between the two global superpowers.



"A strong military presence will be a clear signal to China and other nations in Asia and around the world that America is back in the global leadership business," Trump's team wrote on his official website.



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While Trump did not go so far as to declare war an inevitability, he definitely left the door open to the possibility that as president he would consider the option of military conflict with China. The businessman-turned-politician cited unpredictability as the reason he would not promise to avoid war between the world's largest economic powers.



"I would use trade to negotiate. Would I go to war? Look, let me just tell you. There's a question I wouldn't want to answer," Trump said in response to a New York Times reporter's question about the South China Sea controversy.



The billionaire went on to say that "a politician would say, 'Oh I would never go to war,' or they'd say, 'Oh I would go to war.' I don't want to say what I'd do because, again, we need unpredictability."



However, other statements Trump made to the New York Times seem to indicate that the 69-year-old is not so serious about his willingness to use force. He threatened to remove the US military from strategic positions in South Korea and Japan, unless those countries pay more money.



At this point, Trump's foreign policy is purely theoretical, but he is getting closer to attaining the power that would enable him to try and enact his proposals. Trump only needs to win 52 percent of the remaining GOP primary delegates to be nominated for the general election.



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Tagsdonald trump, US-China relations, war, china
(Photo : Getty Images) Visitors walk along the Tidal Basin under a canopy of blooming Cherry Blossom trees in Washington, USA on March 24, 2016. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Anadolu Agency/Getty Image

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Beijing and Washington are celebrating China-US Tourism Year this 2016 as economists noted that tourism's role in the economic cooperation between the two increases.



Reports from the communist-backed Global Times said thatfa the two countries are looking into tourism as a possible growth point following a decline in bilateral investments and trade cooperation in the past years.



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As part of a series of activities and events for the China-US Tourism Year, nearly 1,000 American tourists visited the Jinshanling Great Wall in North China's Hebei Province on Friday, the Global Times reported.



Bilateral trade cooperation



Various measures had been lined up to boost tourism during President Xi Jinping's state visit to the US last year. President Barack Obama and Xi designated 2016 as the China-US Tourism Year.



Reports said the two countries have been facing an uphill struggle in promoting bilateral trade cooperation and investment amid the current global economic uncertainty.



Economists have expressed hopes that the US-China Tourism Year will help uplift the slow economy with the two sides striving to find new growth points.



Chinese visits to the US



Reports said in 2015, China and US bilateral visits surpassed 4.75 million with Chinese visits to the US exceeding 2.66 million, up by 16.77 percent compared to the same period in 2014.



Analysts said Chinese visits to the US is expected to increase in the coming years.



The Global Times has reported that Chinese tourists spent around $10,800 each when they visited the US in 2014.



"If they spent $10,000 per trip to the US in 2015, Chinese tourists would have spent a whopping $26.6 billion in the country, similar to nearly 18 percent of the total volume of China's imports from the US last year, " the paper said.



Reports said the increase in bilateral visits will not only benefit the two countries' economies but most important, it will enhance Sino-US relations



Reports said that the increase of 'people to people' exchanges between Beijing and Washington it will most likely help in bridging the differences between the two countries and promote understanding.



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TagsChina-US Tourism Year, china, Washington, slow economy, Chinese visits to US, imports, Sino-US relations
A Ugandan soldier, one of a 9,000-strong African Union (AMISOM), force, walks past war rubble at an airport military base on August 18, 2011 in Mogadishu, Somalia. The contingent, make up of Ugandan and Burundian troops, has taken over most of Mogadishu along with Somali government forces, following the abrupt withdrawal of extremist Islamic Shabab militants earlier in the month. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

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Four days of intense fighting between Al-Shabaab militants and Somalia's security forces resulted to the death of 115 militants and the arrest of 110 others, according to Somalia's Galmudug State president Abdikarim Hussein Gulet.



In a statement on Monday, Guled said the four-day intense fighting lasted until Sunday as the remaining Al-Shabaab militants fled into the rural areas of Galmudug.



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"Galmudug forces after intensive fighting with Al-Shabaab militia for the last 4 days are pleased to see the end of this fighting that killed 115 militias and captured 110 militias that are in custody," the president said in the statement.



The areas were intense fighting took place include Galhagoog, Bali-Hawd, Jiray, and Dinoda, the president said.



Guled lauded the efforts of the security forces in the fight against the Al-Shabaab militia, which reportedly aimed to re-group in Galmudug to launch terrorist attacks.



The president, however, stressed that those arrested during the intense fighting will be treated with dignity and care based on the laws of the land and the international laws.



"The victory that Galmudug forces defeated Al-Shabaab for the last four days and the recent victory in Puntland requires our immediate and collective action to intensify the fight against terrorists in order to stop them re-grouping and finding hide-outs that they can use to plan terrorist attacks," he said.



The president added that the militia's strategy was to find bases in northern regions, such as Somaliland and Puntland.



Following the intense four-day fighting, the president of Galmudug State offered amnesty to those who will lay down their guns and choose the path of peace.



However, Guled said his government will not stop the fight against Al-Shabaab militants and vowed to sustain the intense fighting until all the militants are eliminated from his state.



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A visitor browses the Maserati section during a special media opening of the Auto Shanghai 2009 at Shanghai New International Expo Center on April 20, 2009 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Feng Li/Getty Images)

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A defective design on Maserati's floor mat and accelerator pedal has triggered the Italian luxury car maker to recall a total of 20,842 vehicles in China.



According to China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine, Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli models are included in the recall.



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The said Maserati models were manufactured between March 22, 2013 and December 3, 2015 and imported to China, the country's top quality watchdog announced on Monday.



According to the watchdog, the defect on Maserati's floor mat and accelator pedal could result to collision because the design could get the pedal stuck in the working position.



Starting March 28, the Italian luxury car maker will replace the mat and pedal on the imported Maserati Quattroporte and Ghibli models for free, the official Xinhua news agency has reported.



China is now the world's biggest automobile market, an important country for the world's top vehicle makers.



Quality is an important thing for car manufacturers in China and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine has been issuing recall orders, involving hundreds of thousands of vehicles.



In November of last year, Maserati recalled 319 vehicles on the Chinese mainland due to defects in wiring.



The recalled Maserati vehicles include the Maserati Quattrope V8 Models that were manufactured between March 22, 2013 and October 11, 2014.



The defects in the generator wiring harness could result to the generator stalling or flaming out, the statement issued by the quality watchdog said.



In 2011, Maserati also recalled 56 vehicles imported to China due to defective track bars. The said defect could result to the vehicles moving out of control.



The recall involved 37 Quattroporte models and 19 Gran Turismo models that were manufactured from July 3, 2008 to September 30 2008.



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COMMENTARY: Open season on people of faith in Georgia Guest Columnist | 28 March, 2016 by Todd Starnes / Fox News

ATLANTA (Christian Examiner)  Georgia's Republican governor stunned the state's religious community Monday by vetoing legislation that would have protected preachers who refuse to perform LGBT marriages.

"It's open season on people of faith in our state," said State Sen. Josh McKoon, the author of the 2014 Religious Freedom Restoration Act. "It's a slap in the face to conservatives, to evangelicals and to the broader faith community," he told me.

Click here to join Todd's American Dispatch: a must-read for conservatives!

Gov. Nathan Deal vetoed the bill under tremendous pressure from major corporations who threatened to take their business out of the state should he side with Georgia's religious community.

"Our actions on HB 757 are not just about protecting the faith-based community or providing a business-friendly climate for job growth in Georgia," he said. 'This is about the character of our state and the character of its people."

Deal took religious leaders to task for questioning his moral convictions and his personal character. Nor did he take kindly to business leaders who threatened to leave Georgia.

"I do not respond well to insults or threats," he said.

Simply put  the bill would have protected pastors from having to perform same-sex marriages. Faith-based organizations, like Christian schools, would also have been extended protection from renting its facilities to any organization that was contrary to its beliefs.

READ THE FULL STORY AT FOXNEWS.COM!

Todd Starnes is host of Fox News & Commentary, heard on hundreds of radio stations. His latest book is "God Less America: Real Stories From the Front Lines of the Attack on Traditional Values." Follow Todd on Twitter@ToddStarnes and find him on Facebook.
Cruz and Trump share very different insights on Easter 28 March, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , |

HOUSTON (Christian Examiner)  Republican frontrunner Donald Trump said on ABC News' This Week with George Stephanopolous that Easter "really means something very special" to him, but what it means he had difficulty expressing.

"I'm going to church in an hour from now and it's going to be  it's a beautiful church. I'm in Florida," Trump said.

"And it's just a very special time for me. And it really represents family and get-together and  and something, you know, if you're a  a Christian. It's just a very important day."

And it's just a very special time for me. And it really represents family and get-together and  and something, you know, if you're a  a Christian. It's just a very important day.

The comment  and the inability to explain simple concepts of the Christian faith, among them the central doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus Christ  is the latest in a growing line of public gaffes that could cost Trump evangelical support in the remaining primary states before the Republican National Convention in June.

Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, who is gaining on Trump in national polls and in some polls shows a lead in Wisconsin (the next primary contest), also issued a statement on the Good Friday-Easter weekend.

"This weekend, Christians of every denomination remember the most transformative event in history  Christ's crucifixion and resurrection  the ultimate sacrifice that redeemed the whole world," Cruz said in the statement.

Cruz said the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the gift of salvation God offers in him makes believers "new"  taken together all familiar ways Christians describe the doctrine of atonement, resurrection and being born again.

Cruz also spoke to the recent terror attacks in Brussels in his statement.

"The light of Christ brings hope to every corner of the world. This year Heidi and I pray that in the wake of the Brussels attack, as we mourn for the victims who lost their lives in the subway tunnels and airport corridors at the hands of baseless terrorists, we will remember that the light of truth is stronger than the darkness of terror," Cruz said.

Trump's unfamiliarity with evangelical thought and doctrine first showed in July 2015, when the New York billionaire, who has bragged in his bestsellers about seducing married women, said he had never asked for forgiveness.

"I just try to go and do a better job from there. If I do something wrong, I think I just try and make it right. I don't bring God into that picture. I don't," Trump said.

He also confused communion as a means of conveying forgiveness, which is nearer to Catholic doctrine, but not identical there either.

"When we go in church and when I drink my little wine and have my little cracker, I guess that's a form of asking for forgiveness," Trump said. "I do that as often as possible because I feel cleansed."

During a CNN interview the following month, Trump said his favorite book was the Bible. Asked what his favorite Bible verse was, he could not  or would not  answer.

"I wouldn't want to get into it. Because to me, that's very personal," Trump said. "The Bible means a lot to me, but I don't want to get into specifics."
Jordanian Christian: No problems until radical Islamists 'brainwashed young' Editorial Staff | 16 February, 2015 by Joni B. Hannigan

ZARQA, Jordan (Christian Examiner) -- As a youngster, Nabeeh Abbassi remembers marching to school in the military camp where his father was stationed.

His was one of three Christian houses in a section where 30 Muslim homes were also set aside as housing for soldiers and their families.

"There were no issues at all," Abbassi, 51, said of growing up as a Christian in a predominantly Muslim Middle Eastern country in the 1960s-70s.

"There were no radical groups," he paused, remembering when friends would spend the night -- and since Muslims pray five times a day -- the softspoken man said he wouldn't blink as neighbors spread a small prayer carpet in his family's home to observe Sal?t.

"What was happening at that time was that religion was a relationship between you and God," Abbassi said. "Never was it a dividing factor and in day-to-day activities families loved each other and it never bothered us that some were Christian and some were Muslim."

An evangelical scholar and pastor, Dr. Abbassi is the former president of the Jordan Baptist Convention and for a while was the provost and a professor at Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary in Amman. He is a graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary and in the United States for a year-long sabbatical.

Three years ago, in Jordan, Abbassi founded and became the general director of the Arab Center for Consulting and Training Services (ACCTS), an organization focused on encouraging the growth of the global Arab Christian community by partnering with Christian and non-Christian communities in Jordan and Arab countries to build holistic communities by blending cultures and training future leaders.

Abbassi mused that most of his childhood friends that he grew up with are Muslim. "We would stick with each other regardless of our backgrounds."

With regret heavy in his voice, Abbassi - born in the same city as the militant Islamist who ran a paramlitary training camp in Afghanistan during the Iraq War, Al Musab al-Zarqawi  said the difference between then and now is that radical Islam began growing and "the Islamic Brotherhood started to build a hatred that distinguished between families."

Even the dress code for Muslims was different back then, he remembers. Not more conservative, for example, but less, with women not required to be fully covered.

This extremism has ushered in a period of digression of Arab "culture and civilization," Abbassi fears  and like Jordan's Queen Rania said in an address to world leaders meeting in Dubai in early February, means there is now a "philosophical" as well as "military" war.

"ISIS has been able to penetrate the educational system through the mosque" in some countries, Abbassi said, noting where the education systems are controlled by the "Muslim Brotherhood, they were planning to brainwash society."

"If you look at the impact, they were able to reshape the mind of the younger generation, and you now have leaders that have been reshaped through the years the way they would like to refocus Islam through them  and the Caliphate has now become their desire and hope," Abbassi said.

The resulting terror brought about by radical Islam through the violent activities of ISIS is a "wake up call" as countries in the Middle East see the "danger" of allowing young persons to walk down that road, Abbassi said.

The Arab world was rocked with the recent deaths of a beloved Jordanian pilot  who was Muslim, Abbassi said, and with the weekend release of a video by Islamic State terrorists beheading 21 Egyptians who were Coptic Christians captured in Lybia.

Abbassi said he supports Jordan's King Abdullah's resolve to pursue ISIS and believes further acts of war are justified in Romans 13: 1-5.

"I encourage people to pray for their governments," Abbassi said. He also said when soldiers are "God's servants" they are being used for good, and "they do not carry the sword without a purpose."

In fact, the son of a soldier said if he had not had such a strong call to serve in the ministry, he would gladly "consider it an honor to serve in his father's footsteps" as a soldier in the Jordanian army.

And with unashamed patriotism ringing proudly  even from the U.S. where he keeps in touch with events back home -- Abbassi boasts of King Abdullah.

"We as Jordanians are very proud of the stand that His majesty took," Abbassi said. "He did not disappoint us; he responded to the call. We have seen some weak leadership worldwide regarding this and it's about time somebody took some leadership ... and we are proud of him for doing this.

"And we are praying for him that God would give him success," Abbassi said. "And we know it's teamwork and we are hoping that they would build a larger and larger coalition. We need our allies to continue to finish it to the end."

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Man at Bellevue Easter service with guns arrested for 'emergency commitment' 27 March, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , |

MEMPHIS (Christian Examiner)  Church security officers and police averted tragedy at the 4,500-member Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis today when a man entered the church with several weapons.

According to police, church security officers saw the man in the church and contacted police during the Easter Sunday Service. He was armed with a semi-automatic rifle, 40-caliber Beretta handgun and was carrying a backpack, the contents of which were not reported.

Officers arrived at the church and took the man into custody without incident. A local television station reported the man, Marcus Donald, 31, was "arrested for emergency commitment."

Donald reportedly told police "people in society are a threat to him and that he must be vigilant."

Emergency commitment is the "only time a mentally ill person can be taken into custody solely for being mentally ill," a spokesman for the University of Memphis Crisis Intervention Team told another local news station.

After the morning services, Jim Barnwell, a Bellevue spokesman, said in a statement no one was injured in the incident:

"A heavily armed man entered our building today about 11:00 a.m. He was stopped by our security people before he could enter the sanctuary, and was subsequently arrested by Memphis Police. We are thankful for the diligence of our security people and the Memphis Police Department," the statement said.

According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal, none of the churchgoers appeared to have known the incident took place. The paper also said Donald was arrested once before in 2007 on a charge of disorderly conduct.

The incident highlights the importance of churches adopting security policies to  if possible  prevent shootings like those that occurred in Charleston, S.C., in 2015 and in Fort Worth, Texas, in September 1999.

Bellevue Baptist Church is pastored by Steve Gaines, who has been nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention. The Convention meets in St. Louis in June.
Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed a bill on Thursday that bans abortion because of fetal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, or on the basis of fetus' sex or race.

"I believe that a society can be judged by how it deals with its most vulnerable-the aged, the infirm, the disabled and the unborn. HEA 1337 will ensure the dignified final treatment of the unborn and prohibits abortions that are based only on the unborn child's sex, race, color, national origin, ancestry, or disability, including Down syndrome," Pence said in an official statement.

Indiana became the second state to forbid abortions for the reason of fetal anomalies after North Dakota. At present, seven other states have banned feticide based on sex, while Arizona has banned abortions because of race, says Guttmacher Institute.

"Some of my most precious moments as Governor have been with families of children with disabilities, especially those raising children with Down syndrome. These Hoosiers never fail to inspire me with their compassion and these special children never fail to move me with their love and joy," Governor's statement read.

The Midwestern state will also become the first state to require burying or cremating the fetal remains. Also, the patients will be informed by the doctors about perinatal hospice care.

Some of the Republicans opposed the bill, including Cindy Kirchhofer (R-Beech Grove), who said the bill went too far, and needs consultation with the constituents.

"I feel this is government overreaching," Kirchhofer was quoted as saying by the Indianapolis Star newspaper.

Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky said it would bring the bill to court.

"It is fraught with unintended consequences that will prove dangerous to women. PPINK is now working with the ACLU of Indiana to seek judicial review and fully expects to file a complaint and request for preliminary injunction," the group said.

Mike Fichter, CEO of Indiana Right to Life, welcomed state's decision to implement ban on abortion of Down syndrome babies.

"We are pleased that our state values life no matter an individual's potential disability, gender or race," he stated.

Chief Executive of American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Hal Lawrence, said the organization will oppose the law. According to her, such a law will encourage patients to hide information from their doctors, seek out-of-state abortions, and then to skip post-abortive follow-up care from their state physicians.

"She shouldn't be under legal duress when she came back to where she lived," Lawrence told The Washington Post. "Patients need postpartum or postoperative care. They need to be counseled for contraception. Discouraging that is highly destructive."

However, Christina Francis, an obstetrician-gynecologist in Indiana, said the law will bolster relationships between her and her patients.

"Too often, women learn their baby has Down syndrome and the first thing their physician tells them about is abortion," she told the Washington Post. "To my patients, I'd say, 'Yes, this is not what we were expecting -- everyone wants to have a healthy child -- but now, you know what? That child still has potential for a significant life."
The House of Lords in the UK Parliament rejected an amendment calling Islamic State's atrocities against Christians and minorities a "genocide" in the Middle East by 148-111 votes.

If the upper house had passed the amendment, it would have moved on to the High Court judge for final approval.

The decision to call it genocide would have had huge ramifications, according to reports, including being required to give immediate asylum to refugees from Syria and Iraq.

Those who supported the amendment were upset after it failed to pass through the house. Lord David Alton had urged the government to call ISIS persecution a "genocide," following US Secretary of State John Kerry's statements on March 17.

"This was a day when Britain neither salved its conscience or offered practical help but chose to look the other way. When historians come to consider the lamentable failure of both parliament and government to speak and act they will surely conclude that we failed to recognize the crime above all crimes," Alton said in a statement after the amendment was taken down.

"This should not have been a day for party whips and scaremongering arguments - such as being flooded with genocide victims - none of which brings Parliament credit," he said.

Those who opposed the amendment said that the resolution to call minority persecution a genocide lies with international judicial bodies such as the UN.

Recently, Kerry had said: "In my judgment, Daesh [the Arabic acronym for the Islamic State] is responsible for genocide against groups in areas under its control, including Yazidis, Christians and Shiite Muslims. Daesh is genocidal by self-proclamation, by ideology, and by actions."

Last month, the European Parliament called the actions of ISIS as genocidal, and asked the UN and International Criminal Court to bring ISIS to trial for crimes against humanity.

"So-called 'ISIS/Daesh' is committing genocide against Christians and Yazidis, and other religious and ethnic minorities, who do not agree with the so-called ISIS/Daesh interpretation of Islam," the EU resolution read.

Lord Richard Keen, who opposed the proposal, said that it must be the international courts who should decide on the issue.

"The government believes that recognition of genocide should be a matter for international courts and that it should be a legal rather than a political determination. That remains the position," said Keen. He added that such passing such an amendment would be a "potential disaster" for immigration policy in Britain.
ISIS finance minister and no. 2 leader of the self-proclaimed Islamic State was killed by American Special Forces working with a coalition of local groups in eastern Syria.

The commander Abd al-Rahman Mustafa al-Qaduli, who had many aliases including Abu Alaa al-Afri and Haji Imam, was being followed by two helicopters, and the original plan by the military forces was to capture him alive, but his vehicle was fired on for yet undisclosed reasons, reportedly killing him.

"We are systematically eliminating ISIL's [ISIS] cabinet," Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said at a news briefing to confirm the report.

Carter called Qaduli a "senior leader serving as a finance minister who was also involved in external operations and plots."

Qaduli had a reward of $7 million on him. "Leaders can be replaced, however, these leaders have been around for a long time. They are senior. They're experienced. So eliminating them is an important objective and achieves an important result," Carter continued.

According to the Pentagon, Qaduli managed the ISIS' funding, apart from handling daily operations of the organization and supporting groups in Syria, Libya, and Iraq.

He also was the second-in-command to ISIS chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who at present seems to have taken a back seat in communications with the lower ranks of the organization.

Qaduli was member of Al Qaeda, and was a senior Islamic State leader who was released from prison in 2012, and later again joined the ISIS.

He was a follower of Abu Musaab al-Suri, a jihadi scholar, and used to teach physics in Mosul, before being designated as stand-in leader for Baghdadi.

Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a Pentagon press release: "I think the momentum is in our favor. I think there are a lot of reasons ... for us to be optimistic about the next several months. But by no means would I say that we're about to break the back of ISIL or ... that the fight is over."
As the term of the current president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) is about to end and the SBC's annual convention -- where the next president will be elected -- is fast approaching, nominees for the next president of the denomination have been announced through Baptist Press, the official news service of the SBC. This years nominees include J.D. Greear, Steve Gaines, and David Crosby.

North Carolina J.D. Greear "is leading his generation to live out a passion for the SBC, missions and the local church," wrote Florida pastor Jimmy Scroggins in a news release. He stated his intention to nominate Greear at the SBC annual meeting in St. Louis in June on March 2.

Greear pastored The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, N.C., for 14 years during which worship attendance has grown from 350 to about 10,000 and the number of baptisms has increased from 19 to 928 between 2012 and 2014.

"One of the things God has put on my heart is that my generation needs to take personal responsibility for the agencies and the mission boards of the SBC and not just think of them as the SBC's, but think of them as ours, Greear told the Baptist Press.

Tennessee pastor Steve Gaines nomination was announced by former SBC President Johnny Hunt on March 9.

"With such a passionate desire for spiritual revival in our churches and nation, and knowing him to be a man of deep intense prayer, it brings joy to my heart to nominate Dr. Gaines, Hunt told the Baptist Press.

Gaines has pastored the Memphis-area Bellevue Baptist Church in Cordova, Tenn., for 11 years.

According to Hunt, Bellevue has partnered with the International Mission Board since 2007 in leading evangelism training in 34 countries.

Gaines told BP that he would like to carry on with current SBC president Dr. Ronnie Floyds focus on spiritual revival.

I've been praying for an awakening for a long time, and that's really my heart. I want the manifest presence of God in our churches and also in our denomination, he told Baptist Press.

It was announced on March 24 that David Crosby, who has pastored the First Baptist Church in New Orleans for 20 years, will be nominated by former SBC President Fred Luter.

"I have watched David the last 10 years here in New Orleans as he has taken the leadership of all the churches and pastors of our city in helping to rebuild New Orleans, which everybody knows was totally destroyed in Hurricane Katrina," Luter told BP in an interview.

"I really believe in cooperation, and I believe the Southern Baptist Convention exists primarily to facilitate cooperation among our churches for the world mission of the Gospel, Crosby said according to BP.

Crosby has held numerous leadership positions which include being a moderator of the New Orleans Baptist Association, member of the SBC Committees and Resolutions, and Executive Board member of the Louisiana Baptist Convention. He is also a trustee at the Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary.

Candidates serve one year terms and can hold the position for a maximum of two consecutive terms. The Southern Baptist Convention is the largest Protestant denomination in the nation with over 50,000 churches and 15 million members.
A suicide bomber killed at least 72 people and injured more than 320 at a children's park in Lahore, Pakistan. Most of the crowd present at the park were Christians celebrating the Easter.

The suicide bomber blew himself up in the parking lot of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, which is frequented by Christians in the city, and the Easter Sunday evening was particularly crowded with many women and children present at the park.

A Taliban-linked faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, and said that they purposefully wanted to target the Christian festival of Easter.

"Members of the Christian community who were celebrating Easter today were our prime target," Jamaat-ul-Ahrar spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan told NBC News from an undisclosed location.

Lahore Police Chief Haider Ashraf said that mostly women and children were killed in the blast. "He chose a soft target and that's why went towards women and children in the park," Ashraf said.

The blast occurred near the site where many had lined up to buy tickets for a train ride.

The Pakistani Army cordoned off the surrounding area after the attacks.

"I was standing there near the seesaw when the blast occurred," an eyewitness, Mohammad Arshad told Reuters. "As we rushed over here we saw a pool of blood and people [both dead and injured] lying here and there."

Footage of the scene showed women and children crying, and many were loaded into private vehicles to hospitals.

"When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air," Hasan Imran, another eyewitness said.

Security officials said they had found the suicide bomber's body, who was carrying over 30 pounds of explosives.

Punjab Chief Minister Shabaz Sharif ordered closing of all public parts and three days of mourning in the province in the province.

The attack was the deadliest incident in Pakistan since the December 2014 killings of children at an army-run school, which left over 140 dead.

The US government strongly condemned the attacks, and called it a "cowardly act."

"We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed, just as our thoughts and prayers are with the many injured in the explosion," a statement from Washington said.

"The United States stands with the people and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour. We will continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region, as together we will be unyielding in our efforts to root out the scourge of terrorism."

A majority of population in Pakistan is Muslim, with only 1.59 percent Christians (2.8 million).
Florida Governor Rick Scott approved a bill that cuts state funding to abortion clinics and imposed abortion restrictions.

Scott signed the House Bill 1441 which comfortably passed the legislature earlier this month and states that, "a state agency, a local governmental entity, or a managed care plan providing services under Part IV of Chapter 409 may not expend funds for the benefit of, pay funds to, or initiate or renew a contract with an organization that owns, operates, or is affiliated with one or more clinics that are licensed under this chapter and perform abortions."

Florida Family Policy Council president John Stemberger called the new law a "historic victory," in a statement released at the FFPC website.

"This event today is the culmination of years of work by countless pro-life members and advocates," said Bill Warren, Policy Director of the Florida Family Policy Council. "We applaud their commitment to this cause and commend the hard work of this group of bill sponsors."

The new law requires abortion clinics to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals for cases of emergency or any abortion complications, in addition to annual heath inspections. The rules on disposal of aborted fetal tissue are also tightened.

"Abortionists will finally be held to the same standard as all other physicians who perform invasive procedures in a nonhospital setting by the requirement to have admitting privileges or a transfer agreement with a nearby hospital," said Ingrid Delgado, associate for social concerns/respect life for the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops.

The law states that the funds may be provided for abortions in case of rapes or incest, or to preserve the life of a pregnant woman from substantial or irreversible physical impairment.

Doctors are mandated to submit monthly reports to the state, which need to include the number of abortions performed and the reasons for the feticide.

Florida joins the ranks of 11 other states that have adopted the abortion restrictions. The law will be effected from July 1.

The Planned Parenthood of Florida denounced the government for signing the bill into law.

"For Rick Scott to prioritize political pandering over his own constituents' access to healthcare is more than cynical. It's shameful," Laura Goodhue, executive director of Florida Alliance of Planned Parenthood Affiliates said in a statement.

She also said that HIV rates would "skyrocket" and teenage pregnancies will be on the rise because women will have no access to state-funded abortions.

Similar abortion regulations in Texas are being challenged in the US Supreme Court, and the verdict is expected to be announced by the end of June.

Scott also signed 67 other bills including one that will expand the Right to Try Act, permitting usage of all doses of medical marijuana to terminal patients.
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.
Update (Mar. 28): While a Pakistani Taliban faction claims it targeted Christians in Sundays attack on the childrens area of a major park in Lahore, a large number of non-Christians also died.

The final tally remains unclear, but approximately 14 of the victims were Christians while the majority have been identified as Muslims, according to the Associated Press (AP) as well asThe Washington Post. Morning Star News reports the Christian fatalities may be closer to 45.

At least 29 of the overall deaths were children enjoying an Easter weekend outing, according to Reuters, while the number of people wounded has surpassed 300.

Many of these are believed to be Christians as it is a common tradition for families to go to a local funfair to celebrate the birth of Christ after their Easter devotions, reports the British Pakistani Christian Association. It says 29 of the victims were Christians.

The Los Angeles Timesreports:

Peter Jacob, a Lahore-based Christian ...

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We are counting down the top 40 articles published by Leadership Journal, including this one from 2002.

Only those who have done time behind a pulpit understand this: the worst part of Sunday morning is standing at the door after the service. Sermons come from the soul. Thus, to deliver a sermon is to reveal our innermost parts in front of the entire congregation. By the time preachers get to the pulpit, the text has already beaten us up, and consoled and renewed us in the grace of God. So when we look out and say, "Hear the Word of the Lord," we really believe it has the power to change lives. Then after delivering this sacred message, we stand at the door smiling, with our souls still hanging out.

Here's one of the preacher's great secrets that people in the pews don't know: we hope they won't comment too much on the sermon. What we want people to say is simply a gentle "thank you." If they say much more, we just melt into a puddle, because we haven't ...

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home World David Cameron Easter 2016 message: British PM encourages Brits to stand up proudly for Chritian values

In a message during Easter, Prime Minister David Cameron focused on hope and urged the people of the United Kingdom to defend their Christian values against terrorists.

"When we see Christians today in 2016 being persecuted for their beliefs in other parts of the world  we must speak out and stand with those who bravely practice their faith," he said. "And when terrorists try to destroy our way of life as they have tried to do again so despicably in Brussels this week  we must stand together and show that we will never be cowed by terror."

He was referring to the bombings in Belgium on March 22, wherein two bombs exploded at the Brussels airport and one at a Metro station, killing more than 30 and injuring at least 300.

During his speech, he spoke of hope seen each day, such as those in projects that help the homeless, in those who visit the sick, and in those who, in trying to save others in war-torn areas, are risking their own lives. He said that at the core of these selfless and brave acts are values that helped the country become what it is.

He named charity, compassion, responsibility, and hard work, as well as "pride in working for the common good and honouring the social obligations we have to one another" as Christian values that should give everyone the confidence to admit that U.K. is a Christian country, something that they should be proud of.

"But they are also values that speak to everyone in Britain, to people of every faith and none," he said. "And we must all stand together and defend them."

This brings to mind Asad Shah, a Muslim shopkeeper based in Scotland. According to Express, he posted a video message on Facebook early this month, calling for peace and saying that God made the world for everyone and there is no need for bloodshed or fighting. He was stabbed multiple times at his shop, which police deem is a "religiously prejudiced" attack. He died at a Glasgow hospital on Thursday.

The Telegraph also reported on what Asad Shah wrote hours before his death: "Upcoming special event: Good Friday and a very Happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation. Let's follow the real footstep of beloved holy Jesus Christ and get the real success in both worlds."

Before closing his message, Cameron said, "We must show that in this struggle of our generation we will defeat the pernicious ideology that is the root cause of this terrorism by standing up proudly for our values and our way of life."
home Life Drug lord 'El Chapo' reading 'The Purpose Driven Life' in prison

Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman-Loera, Mexico's top drug lord, does not have television privileges in prison but he reportedly has access to reading materials. The one he is currently reading is the Spanish version of Pastor Rick Warren's "The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here for?"

According to a report by the Associated Press on March 19, a federal official and a colleague granted them an interview after Guzman's camp filed complaints about the drug kingpins deteriorating health.

They said that he already read "Don Quixote."

"The Purpose Drive Life" is a best-selling devotional book containing Biblical verses and quotes. It won the ECPA Christian Book Award for Christian Book of the Year (2003). First published in 2002, it has 40 chapters that readers can go through each day for 40 days.

Some of memorable lessons that the book contains include: "Other people are going to find healing in your wounds. Your greatest life messages and your most effective ministry will come out of your deepest hurts," and "If not to God, you will surrender to the opinions or expectations of others, to money, to resentment, to fear, or to your own pride, lusts, or ego. You were designed to worship God and if you fail to worship Him, you will create other things (idols) to give your life to. You are free to choose, what you surrender to but you are not free from the consequence of that choice."

El Chapo is the head of Sinaloa Cartel and, in 2012, was said to have been considered by the U.S. Department of Treasury as the most powerful drug trafficker in the world. His group moves tons of cocaine from Colombia to the U.S. He was captured in 1993, escaped in 2001, arrested again 2014, escaped in 2015, then recaptured in January.

While at the Altipano prison, he is under tighter security, with two guards posted outside his cell. He is said to have gained weight and has trouble sleeping.
home Entertainment God-given moral sensibility breaking down in America, says actor Stephen Baldwin

Stephen Baldwin believes that the moral sensibility of Americans is deteriorating.

"The greatest value we can have as part of our integrity and our social and cultural well-being is a moral code," the 49-year actor said, as quoted by The Christian Post. However, he thinks that people's ability to determine the difference between moral and not has been declining steadily.

"When in California a boy that believes he's a girl inside has now been given the right to go and use the girl's facilities, I think that is a breakdown of our God-given moral sensibility," he said.

This begins when a small number of people makes a big enough impact to influence others.

"When the minority of people who we are making these changes for start to have such impact that it completely changes the direction of the majority of human beings and people in this country, I believe the balance has been thrown off," he said.

Vor Weihnachten: #Android7 fAr Moto G/Play erhAltlich. Im Januar Moto Z Play. Dann: Moto X Pure Edition (3. Gen)/Force/Style/Play, Nexus 6  Moto Deutschland (@Moto_GER) December 6, 2016

Baldwin was promoting the release of DVD/Video on Demand film "God's Club." In the movie, he portrays a high school teacher who relaunches the Bible Club that his late wife previously established. Unfortunately, not all parents are supportive, and they demand the club to disbanded, citing separation of church and state.

"Any one faith should never be part of the curriculum of a public school. That should never be mandatory," Baldwin's character Michael Evens says. "But a separation of church and state was never intended to be a separation from God. It was intended to prevent our government from ever deciding for us what we choose to believe."

Baldwin is the younger brother of actors Alec, Daniel and Billy. Apart from acting, he is also an author, director, producer and Christian evangelist. He appeared in Christian films like "Faith of Our Fathers" and "I'm in Love with a Church Girl," as well as mainstream ones like "Born of the Fourth of July" and "Lost Treasure."
home World Jerusalem's Church of the Holy Sepulchre under guardianship of Muslim families for centuries

The entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre has been in the care of two Muslim families for hundreds of years.

The church in Jerusalem is considered as one of the holiest sites for Christians. Located in the Christian Quarter in what is known as the Old City of Jerusalem, it houses the place where Jesus was crucified and where he was entombed. It has been watched over by Muslims for at least 500 years.

Currently, Abed Joudeh holds the key, passed down in his family from generation to generation, while Wajeeh Nuseibeh is responsible for opening and closing the door, the task of which he also inherited.

"This is the family heritage," Joudeh said in the interview with CNN Wire published in Fox40. "It's all we own as a family, and this is an honor not only for our family. This is an honor for all Muslims in the world."

This task was reportedly given to the Muslim families as a means of maintaining neutrality, considering the numerous Christian denominations that have been trying to gain rights to the site. Joudeh's family, according to reports, was given the key in 1187 and Nuseibah's family was assigned as door keepers in 1192.

However, the oldest of the contracts kept by Joudeh's family regarding the care and protection of the 12-inch key is dated 1517. One of the documents, according to the report, dates back to the Ottoman period and bears a stamp by the Turkish sultan.

Joudeh cited the agreement between a Muslim, Umar ibn Khattab, and a Christian, Sophronius, 1,400 years ago that allowed Christians to worship freely in Jerusalem.

"For me, the source of coexistence for Islamic and Christian religions is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre," he said, "and that was when Umar ibn Khattab took the keys of Jerusalem from Patriarch Sophronius and gave security and safety to Christians in the region. We coexist and pass peace and love, which is the real Islamic religion."

There are reportedly two keys, one roughly 850 years old that already broke, and one around 500 years old, which is currently in use. In the morning and evening, Joudeh hands the key to Nuseibeh, who unlocks and locks the church doors.

"What we pass to the next generations is not only the key, but also the way you respect other religions," Joudeh said.
home Faith Muslim shopkeeper killed after posting Easter greeting to Christians on Facebook

A popular Muslim shopkeeper in Scotland has been murdered after he greeted Christians with a 'Happy Easter' message on social media.

On Easter Sunday, 40-year-old Muslim shopkeeper Asad Shah posted an Easter greeting on Facebook, which also encouraged readers to follow the example of Jesus, who is also considered a prophet by Muslims. Three hours after he posted the message, he was attacked with a knife outside his newsagents shop in Glasgow, according to Breitbart.

"Good Friday and a very Happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation," Shah posted on Facebook. "Let's follow the real footstep of beloved holy Jesus Christ and get the real success in both worlds."

Aside from attacking him with a knife, the assailant also stamped on Shah's head. He was brought to the hospital in critical condition, but medics were unable to save him and he did not survive.

Meanwhile, Scottish police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man has been arrested in connection with the Muslim shopkeeper's death. Authorities vowed to launch a full investigation into the deadly Easter incident, which is being considered a religiously prejudiced attack.

Shah was part of an Islamic sect called Ahmadiyyah which is being persecuted not only in the West but also in the Muslim world. The national constitution of Pakistan, Shah's home country, has been amended so that Ahmadiyyahs can be declared as non-Muslims, the report explains.

Friends have set up a vigil near Shah's workplace and thousands of people have showed up in solidarity, including Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. Mourners were encouraged to bring daffodils and light a candle during the vigil. They also set up a Gofundme page for the family he has left behind.

Shah was a well-respected person in his community because of his conviction against hatred and violence. Twitter user Ehsan Abdoh-Tabrizi called him a "tolerant" Muslim who was killed by local extremists.
home US North Carolina transgender bathroom law challenged in U.S. court

Transgender people barred under a new North Carolina law from choosing bathrooms consistent with their gender identity filed a federal lawsuit on Monday, arguing the measure is discriminatory and threatens their personal safety.

North Carolina last week became the first state to enact a measure requiring people to use bathrooms or locker rooms in schools and other public facilities that match the gender on their birth certificate, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The state's Republican-dominated legislature passed the law during a one-day special session called to repeal a Charlotte city ordinance that would have allowed bathroom choice based on gender identity versus sex at birth.

State lawmakers also voted to prohibit local governments from enacting anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The actions drew swift criticism from lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender advocacy groups and companies including American Airlines, Apple and Google.

"By singling out LGBT people for disfavored treatment and explicitly writing discrimination against transgender people into state law, (the state) violates the most basic guarantees of equal treatment and the U.S. Constitution," said the lawsuit, which was filed by the American Civil Liberties Union and Lambda Legal.

Republican lawmakers have defended the law as a common-sense response to radical overreach by the city council in Charlotte, the state's largest city. They spoke of the dangers that could result from men sharing bathrooms with women and young girls.

But transgender plaintiffs said they are now the ones at risk.

"It is so more than a restroom," said Joaquin Carcano, a 27-year-old university employee. "It is about dignity. It's about respect."

Republican Governor Pat McCrory, who is seeking re-election in November, signed the measure into law on the same day it was introduced and passed by both chambers of the legislature. The governor's office did not respond to a request for comment on Monday.

Opponents of the law criticized legislators for allowing little public debate before passing the sweeping measure, which they said has hurt the state's national reputation.

They noted the weeks of debate and review given to a Georgia measure that sought to strengthen legal protections for gay marriage opponents before Republican Governor Nathan Deal signaled on Monday he would veto it.

"By contrast, what happened here in North Carolina was a farce," said Chris Brook, legal director for the ACLU of North Carolina.
home World Nun recounts details of massacre in Yemen retirement home

A nun who survived the attack of the Islamic State on a retirement home in Yemen early this month recounted what happened during the massacre, where four nuns and 12 others were killed and a priest has gone missing.

In a detailed account, Sister Sally narrated the events that took place on March 4 at the Missionaries of Charity, a church-run home for the elderly in the port city of Aden in the southeast coast of Yemen. As she recalled the details, her narrative was jotted down by Sister Adriana, the notes of which were posted by Catholic site Aleteia.

"8:30 am - ISIS dressed in blue came in, killed guard and driver. 5 young Ethiopian men (Christian) began running to tell the Sisters ISIS was here to kill them. They were killed one by one. They tied them to trees, shot them in the head and smashed their heads," the handwritten notes read.

As everyone was getting killed around her, Sister Sally stood behind the door in the Refrigerator Room.

"At least 3 times they came into the Fridgerator Room," Sister Adriana wrote. "She did not hide but remained standing behind the door -- they never saw her. This is miraculous."

The men left at around 10 to 10:15 a.m. and the police arrived at around 10:30 a.m. She was taken to the Doctors Without Borders hospital.

The four nuns who died were identified as Sister Judith from Kenya, Sister Anselm from India, and Sisters Marguerite and Reginette from Rwanda. According to the the Catholic News Agency, other victims were mostly volunteers, but the approximately 80 residents of the elderly home were not harmed. Father Thomas Uzhummanii is believed to have been kidnapped by the assailants.

In a statement, Vatican secretary of state Cardinal Pietro Parolin said, as posted by the Vatican Network, "In the name of God, [Pope Francis] calls upon all parties in the present conflict to renounce violence, and to renew their commitment to the people of Yemen, particularly those most in need, whom the Sisters and their helpers sought to serve."

Bishop Paul Hinder, apostolic vicar of the Arabian peninsula, told the CNA that the people at the Missionaries of Charity died as martyrs and that they were victims of hatred against the Christian faith.

The nuns and volunteers were not the only victims in Yemen in the past months as the country is currently in turmoil. More recently, at least 26 people were killed and dozens injured as three suicide bombers attacked checkpoints in the same city, Aden, on Friday, March 25. According to Reuters, the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attacks, which coincided with the anniversary of the civil war in the country.
home World Pope delivers Easter message; Christian communities celebrate Jesus' resurrection

Pope Francis celebrated Easter Mass at the St. Peter's Basilica, and the Vatican streamed it live so anyone in the world with an Internet connection could take part in it.

The pope also presided the Easter Vigil on Saturday evening, and exhorted Catholics and everyone to not be imprisoned by fear and negativity.

"We see and will continue to see problems both within and without," he told a crowd that gathered at the St. Peter's Basilica, as quoted by Radio Vaticana. "Let us not allow darkness and fear to distract us and control us."

The message is timely, following the terror attacks and violence that have been taking place all over the world, the most recent high-profile one having happened in Brussels, Belgium on March 22. Two blasts at the Brussels airport and one in a metro station killed at least 30 and injured more than 300.

"Today is the celebration of our hope," the Pope said.

The message follows his act on Holy Thursday, wherein he washed and kissed the feet of Christian, Hindu and Muslum refugees, reminsicent of what Jesus did to his disciples.

"We have different cultures and religions, but we are brothers and we want to live in peace," he said, according the The Independent.

The "gesture of brotherhood" is in high contrast to the "gesture of war" that took place in Brussels and other parts of the globe. Reuters quotes what the Holy See said on Good Friday, decrying the "expressions of fundamentalism (and) terrorist acts committed by followers of some religions which profane the name of God and which use the holy name to justify their unprecedented violence."

All over the world, Christians are also celebrating Easter.

In Australia, according to ABC, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and his wife attended mass at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church in Wentworth, while Opposition Leader Bill Shorten attended mass at the St. Paul's Cathedral in Melbourne. There were also different messages. Monsignor Michael Keating of Perth's Catholic Cathedral of St Mary talked about the recent terror attacks, while Archbishop Phillip Aspinall of St John's Cathedral mentioned domestic violence an abuse.

In Istanbul, Daily Sabah reports that the country's largest Roman Catholic Church, St. Antony of Padua Church, held masses in English, Polish and Italian, starting with one at 10 a.m. and the last at 9 p.m. Other churches did the same.

The Archdiocese of Vancouver also announced that there are Easter Sunday Masses scheduled twice or more, depending on the church. Corpus Christi in Vancouver, for instance, has scheduled masses at 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., with the Cantonese version to be held at 3 p.m.
Christians under increasing pressure in Pakistan

Christians have faced persecution in Pakistan for years but the climate has deteriorated in recent months with the murders of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer and Minorities Minister Shahbaz Bhatti, and particularly since the burning of a Koran at the church of Florida pastor Terry Jones last month.



Last Saturday, the Sarhadi Lutheran Church in Mardan, Khyberpakhtunkhwa province, was targeted in a bomb attack.



It is believed that Islamic militants planted the bomb that caused considerable damage to the building.



Despite people being present at the church at the time, no one was killed or injured in the explosion, according to Assist news.



The churchs pastor, the Rev Ghulam Shad, said: It appears that the militants only wanted to demolish the church, but not to injure any of our people.



When asked by the news service about the churchs attitude towards the perpetrators, he answered: All we can do is to pray for them as we are taught by our Lord Jesus Christ.



The day before, a Muslim man entered a church in Lahore and tore the Bible in retaliation for the Koran burning. He was reportedly detained by police and is awaiting trial.



According to Assist news, Lahore archdiocesan vicar general Andrew Nisari urged Christians not to seek revenge.



Promise me you wont riot, he said during mass at Lahores Sacred Heart Cathedral last Sunday.



Promise me you wont fight. It is another trial for Christianity in Pakistan. Be patient in suffering and follow the passion of Christ.



Retired Lahore Archbishop Lawrence Saldanha was quoted by UCA news as saying: The state will deal with the criminal. Pursuing the matter will invite more trouble. However, we are deeply concerned with growing anti-Christian sentiments.



One of Pakistans most outspoken advocates for the rights of Christians, Joseph Francis, has received death threats in recent months.



Francis is the director of the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS), which provides persecuted Christians in Pakistan with free legal support and has lobbied hard for the repeal of the controversial blasphemy laws.



CLAAS has appealed to Christians to pray for his safety.



In a message to the ministrys supporters, Mr Francis vowed to continue speaking up for the rights of Christians in spite of the death threats.



Even though I am receiving threats to my life, as a soldier of Christ I am willing to stand up for the rights of those persecuted and pressed down by these unjust laws, even if the ultimate goal demands my blood too, he said.



I know I have opposition from the religious extremists who want to stop me from defending my brothers and sisters in Christ from all kinds of persecution, but I will continue my struggle for the repeal of blasphemy and other Islamic discriminatory laws.



The British Pakistani Christian Association (BPCA) is appealing to Christians in Britain to stand by their brothers and sisters in Pakistan. It is planning to hold a protest on July 2 to call for reform of the blasphemy laws and the Pakistani constitution.



Wilson Chowdhry, of the BPCA, said many of the atrocities faced by Christians in Pakistan had gone rather unnoticed by the world.



Historically in the UK, the largest protest we have managed to organise through our community has been limited to around 250 people.



Without wider Christian support, we are doomed to failure, he said.



This Wednesday, the Masih Foundation is asking Christians around the world to light a candle and say prayers for Asia Bibi, a Christian mother-of-five sentenced to death for blasphemy last November. She remains in prison awaiting an appeal against her sentence.



Bibi is reportedly continuing to fast and pray for other Christians despite being ill in prison with chicken pox.


Former Muslim turned Christian scholar: Christians must be equipped to provide young Muslims with alternatives to violent jihad

"Muslims must depart from the literal reading of the Koran in order to create a jihad-free Islamic world," says one Muslim turned Christian scholar.

Dr Nabeel Qureshi, author of "Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward", has studied the passages of the Koran and the traditions of Muhammad's life to understand what fuels Muslim radicalisation and compels groups like the Islamic State (ISIS) to violently wage war against "enemies" of their faith.

He outlined his thoughts in a column for USA Today in the wake of bombings last week in Belgium that killed over 30 people.

ISIS claimed the attacks were a retaliation for Belgium's role against militants in Syria and Iraq. In their statement claiming responsibility, the group claimed that "dark days" were ahead for countries allied against the Islamic State and that "what is coming is worse and more bitter."

In his column, Dr Qureshi said the radicalisation of young Muslims has become easier for extremists because of the internet. While the full text of the Koran was not readily available before for older Muslims and interpretation was left to the imams, the internet has made it easier to access the full book and leaves young Muslims to translate and understand the text literally, even passages that depict violence mainly found in Surah 9, which commands to disavow all treaties with polytheists and to subjugate Jews and Christians (9.29) so that Islam may "prevail over all religions" (9.33).

This chapter, which is often cited by extremists in their declarations of war, calls on Muslims to fight lest their faith be called into question. It also says that those who do fight are entitled to the spoils of war or heaven through martyrdom.

"ISIL's primary recruiting technique is not social or financial but theological. With frequent references to the highest sources of authority in Islam, the Quran and hadith (the collection of the sayings of the prophet Muhammad), ISIL enjoins upon Muslims their duty to fight against the enemies of Islam and to emigrate to the Islamic State once it has been established," he explained.

The scholar further said that the literal interpretation of the Koran without the aid of the imams is dangerous as it sidetracks tradition, leaving impressionable Muslims exposed to the violence of jihad without anyone guiding them towards the proper context and expression of their faith.

Dr Qureshi suggested the sharing of alternative world views as a counter to radicalisation, reflecting on his own experience when a Christian friend suggested Islam did not have to be his only choice. He subsequently opened himself up to the Gospel.

"As more and more Western Muslims encounter ISIL's claims and the surprising violence in their own tradition, many will be looking for ways out of the moral quandary this poses for them. We need to be equipped to provide alternatives to violent jihad, alternatives that address the root of why so many Muslims are radicalising in the first place. Any solution, political or otherwise, that overlooks the spiritual and religious roots of jihad can have only limited effectiveness," he said.
Lahore attack: 'The target was Christians' says Taliban

The Taliban faction who killed at least 70 in Lahore on Sunday have said their target was Christians.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack late on Sunday night, and issued a direct challenge to the government.

"The target was Christians," said a faction spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan. "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore."

The attack hit a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the powerbase of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Most of those killed were women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has more than 2 million Christians, making up less than 2 per cent of the population.

It was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the December 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military run academy in the city of Peshawar that prompted a big government crackdown on Islamist militancy.

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

Lahore, markets, schools and courts were closed on Monday as the city mourned.

Rescue services spokeswoman Deeba Shahnaz said at least 70 people were killed and about 340 were wounded, with 25 in serious condition.

The group has claimed responsibility for several big attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014.

It declared allegiance to the Islamic State but later said it was rejoining the Pakistani Taliban insurgency.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the September 11 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

The minority Christian population has been targeted repeatedly alongside the army, police, government and Western interests.

Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

Earlier on Sunday, hundreds of hard-line Muslim activists clashed with police in the capital, Islamabad, in a protest over the execution of a man they consider a hero for assassinating a governor over his criticism of harsh blasphemy laws.

Mumtaz Qadri Mumtaz shot dead Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Taseer, a prominent liberal politician, had spoken in support of a Christian woman sentenced to death under the law that mandates capital punishment for insulting Islam or the Prophet Mohammad. Qadri was executed last month.

There was no indication of a connection between the protest in Islamabad and the bomb in Lahore.

Additional reporting from Reuters.
Lahore attacks: 'Christians will not lose hope'

Christians in Pakistan will not lose hope in the wake of an attack which killed at least 70 on Easter Sunday, Christian Today was told on Monday.

It was the bloodiest attack on Christians in Pakistan in several years. Over 300 were injured in a suicide blast that rocked a children's playground in Lahore on Easter Sunday. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a Taliban faction group who claimed responsibility, said their target was Christians.

It was the deadliest attack since a church bombing in Peshawar in 2013 killed 80. However the chairman of the British-Pakistani Christian Association (BPCA), Wilson Chowdhry, told Christian Today Christianity would continue to grow.

"Christians in Pakistan have suffered bomb attack after bomb attack. They are suppressed, beaten and their daughters are forced into marriages with Muslim men," he said.

"Have all these attacks ever dented their hope? No."

Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali, a British-Pakistani Anglican bishop echoed Chowdhry's remarks.

"The Christian community will not lose hope even under the most difficult of circumstances," he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

"Our God is a God who suffers with his people and out of that comes resurrection," he continued.

"We must retain hope in God."

On the same day as the attacks thousands gathered in Islamabad to protest the execution of Mumtaz Qadri who had shot Salman Taseer in 2011. Taseer had campaigned for reform of Pakistan's notorious blasphemy laws. He had also championed the cause of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death in a blasphemy case that arose out of a personal dispute.

The protestors have staged a sit in outside Islamabad's parliament and made a list of demands including the implementation of Sharia law and the immediate execution of Bibi, who remains on death row.

Chowdhry told Christian Today the attack should have been expected as tensions against Christians were significantly increased.

"Knowing Christians would be celebrating Easter in the parks, I can't understand why the government would not take precautionary measures," he told Christian Today.

"I am sure that this growing hatred of minorities in the wake of Mr Qadri's death was a trigger for today's blast," he said.

Lahore holds a large proportion of Pakistan's minority Christian population. Chowdhry said he thought this was why the militants targeted the city, which has until now been relatively free from terrorist attacks.

However the Punjab government denied the attack was specifically targeted at Christians.

The Archbishop of Canterbury was among those to offer prayers for the victims.

We pray for the victims of Lahore to the crucified God who brings hope in despair, whose love is with the victims, who promises justice  Justin Welby  (@JustinWelby) March 27, 2016

Chowdhry urged supporters to pray for Pakistani Christians and has set up a fund to support the victims' families. You can find out more here.
Lahore attacks: How should Christians respond?

More than 70 people dead. At least 300 injured. The Pakistani Taliban ensured that on Easter Sunday 70 lives were extinguished. 300 lives changed for the worse. Thousands of friends' and families' lives altered for ever.

And for what?

Not for any noble cause. Not for an end to oppression or in the cause of a just war. Simply for the glorification of death. Killing and maiming was the goal here and it was achieved on a mighty scale. You can be sure that those who planned this attack were gorging themselves on the media coverage of their death festival. It's what gets them out of bed in the morning. How can we cause pain? How can we bring misery? How can we extinguish life and joy and hope wherever we see it?

It's a cult. A cult which worships at the altar of death. A cult which doesn't just kill, but enjoys killing. It lives to bring death.

They struck at Easter. They struck the defenceless Christians of Pakistan, persecuted repeatedly, horrifically and in many cases without a word from the international community.

They struck at Easter because they know what they're doing. When could they target women and children? When could they cause maximum destruction? When could they bring death to the TV screens of so many around the world?

They struck at Easter. In an amusement park. They knew what they were doing. We know what they were doing. They were saying that the death they worship is stronger than the life that these dear Christian sisters and brothers were celebrating.

My instinct is to respond in kind. If they want death, give them death. Let's attack. Let's call up the 82nd Airborne, the RAF, the forces of NATO and rout them. Forget Pakistani sovereignty - get out of the way while we attack. Let's go beyond Ted Cruz's call for carpet bombing, beyond Donald Trump's plan to kill terrorists' families, and do the full Ann Coulter: "We should invade their countries, kill their leaders and convert them to Christianity."

I don't want justice. I want vengeance.

Let's hunt them down and give them the death they so obviously want. Let's give them a taste of their own medicine. Let's stand up for all the innocent lives lost in Lahore yesterday. The lives lost in Lahore churches a year ago. The lives lost in Peshawar three years ago. The life of Salman Taseer, murdered for protecting Christians. The life of Shahbaz Bhatti  murdered for being a Christian. Let's avenge their deaths with such merciless violence that the message goes out loud and clear  if you ever lay a finger on our people again  you're done for. You're finished.

And yet, and yet...

Just when I've pumped myself up to the full height of the sureness of my righteousness and, let's face it, arrogance, I hear a still small voice.

It's the voice of the man who was being celebrated by those Christians in Pakistan yesterday  and indeed by millions of us around the world.

The voice is speaking the words that He used on the cross on Good Friday. "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."

It's easy to skip over this line, in our familiarity with the account of Jesus' death. Yet we mustn't. It's a world-changing concept. It's a reproach to my desire for vengeance and my inclination to see the perpetrators of the crime in Lahore eviscerated.

Jesus, the only man without sin, the only one who had never done anything deserving a punishment was being put to death in the most cruel way ever invented by humans. He was the victim of a repressive power which makes The Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS look mild. The vicious fury of the Roman Empire was poured out on Him  even though He was entirely innocent. But in His agony, He cries out to God to forgive those who were perpetrating the suffering. Astonishing.

If this is the God we worship, how then can vengeance be our watchword? It can have no place on our agenda. Justice, yes, but vengeance, no. That's another religion altogether. You can't follow the Jesus who forgives His executioners and still want vengeance.

Ah, but this is different, you might say... Christians are being targeted deliberately, repeatedly, around the world. We need to teach the terrorists a lesson. I see the attraction of this, but Jesus has pre-empted this approach. In Matthew 18, Peter came to Jesus and asked, "'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?'Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"

The Christian model of justice doesn't demand that crimes remain unpunished or that we just ignore such atrocious acts as the Lahore attacks. In fact, we do need a strong response, to protect the most vulnerable from further harm  another key tenet of Jesus' ethic. Preventing terrorism is vital  and it's time the world spoke up loudly, clearly and with one voice that the persecution of Christians is an epidemic that must be stopped. But let's leave behind fantasies of vengeance. It's the harder way, the less instantly gratifying way. Ultimately though, it's the way to be Christian in the face of such tragedy.
Stabbed and left for dead by Islamist radicals: The cost of being a Christian in Pakistan

Ali Husnain was 17 when he was attacked and stabbed by members of a fundamentalist Islamic group in his hometown in Pakistan. A year earlier, he had converted to Christianity while visiting an aunt in England, having grown up in a prominent, wealthy Shia Muslim family. He'd kept his conversion quiet for 12 months; he had no Bible to read and couldn't go to church, but prayed relentlessly at night, and says he dreamt of Jesus many times. It kept him strong in his faith.

But then Ali talked about sin with some friends at school, and told them Jesus was the only who could offer true forgiveness. One of them told their father, a member of an Islamist group, and the next day Ali was attacked outside the school gates and left to die on the side of the road. "I remember being thrown to the ground and a man with a beard said: 'You tried to evangelise our children, now I'm going to kill you and you'll go to hell'," he told Christian Today. "Then he stabbed me, and I fell unconscious".

He was rushed to hospital, where doctors told his parents he had only 20 minutes to live. His lung had been punctured, causing significant internal bleeding, and there was no time to treat the wound.

But Ali, unconscious, says he had a vision of Jesus. "I dreamt that Jesus Christ came and healed me," he recalls. "He said, 'My son, your life is in danger just because of me. You will not die now; I will give you more life.'"

 Jesus Christ came and saved my life, and gave me a new life, and it belongs to him. I cannot deny him. 

Ali woke up in hospital, still needing treatment but conscious, and aware of his surroundings. His doctors were astounded. When he recovered and was eventually allowed home however, it quickly became apparent that the repercussions of his conversion were not yet over. Given his family's prominence, it was all over the news, and media were waiting outside the hospital. His mother begged him to tell them that he'd made it up as a practical joke, but Ali refused. "I said I cannot do anything. The doctor said he could not save me, but Jesus Christ came and saved my life, and gave me a new life, and it belongs to him. I cannot deny him."

Christianity is a minority religion in Pakistan, where at least 95 per cent of the population is Muslim. The US Commission for International Religious Freedom last year said the country represented "one of the worst situations in the world for religious freedom" and accused the Pakistani government of failing to provide adequate protections for faiths other than Islam. Repressive blasphemy laws are used to target religious minorities, and sectarian violence is considered a chronic problem.

The Movement for Solidarity and Peace in Pakistan estimates that hundreds of young Christian and Hindu women and girls are forced to convert to Islam and to marry Muslim men every year, and though conversion to Christianity is not prohibited, those who choose to do so often face extreme pressure to recant their new faith.

Ali's refusal to distance himself from Christianity angered the fundamentalists in his town further. "That evening we had people visiting the house and threatening my family, saying they would burn down our house," Ali says. He ran away to a different city where he stayed with relatives, but then that house was attacked, and his aunt was injured and killed. "It was because of which family I came from... people were very angry," he says.

His family, too, were upset, and though they were willing to help him escape from those who wanted him dead, they "rejected me and my faith," Ali says. "My mum said, 'You have to leave Pakistan. You cannot belong to us any more.'" His parents bought him a one-way ticket to England, promising to join him as soon as they got visas. That was 2007, and the last time he saw them.

Ali credits his faith with helping him to keep going, despite leaving everything he knew behind. "It was the power of the Holy Spirit," he says. "For me, it was a very strong testimony when I nearly died and Jesus Christ came and saved me. He gave me hope that kept me going. I was also young, and didn't realise [my conversion] would cause this big issue. I trusted my family to help me, but when they didn't give me support, the support from God was very strong. Having experienced him and met him in dreams, I knew he would protect me, and knew he would make something good out of it."

Now in England and living with his aunt, it took Ali six years to be granted asylum, on the grounds that if he returns to Pakistan he will be killed. A few years ago, a fatwa was issued against him by radicals in his hometown. "It says if I go back to Pakistan or if anyone sees me there, they can kill me and won't be punished."

But despite this, Ali has plans to return in the next few years. Now 24 years old, he wants to build a medical facility in the town where he grew up to bless the community that turned against him.

 I know my life is in danger, but God has saved me so far. If he wants me in Pakistan he will save me there. 

"I want to go back and bless my city," he explains. "I had to leave my family, and they [the fundamentalists] took everything away from me, but I want to go back and show that my God is bigger than theirs, and say he has forgiven me, so I want to forgive you.

"I want to show them what a real man of Christ looks like, and what Christianity truly is... I know my life is in danger, but God has saved me so far. If he wants me in Pakistan he will save me there."

The medical facility will offer services to those in poverty, which Ali hopes will speak of God's grace and kindness. "I want to bless the poor and give something back to the community and say 'God still loves you, I still love you'. The Bible is all about love, which is far greater than hate, and if I don't go back who will? If I wont preach the gospel to my own family, and my own people, who will?"

Ali has co-written a book about his experiences. 'The Cost' is published by Zondervan, and available now.

Names have been changed for security reasons
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Lakeland Village Center, the first commercial development in Bridgeland, is now open and more tenants are on the way.

CVS/pharmacy recently opened a 15,300-square-foot store to anchor the 84,000-square-foot mixed-use development on Fry Road near Bridgeland Creek Parkway in Cypress.
The room, lined with velvet curtains and grand chandeliers, is abuzz with the sound of chatter and needles pressed against skin. Artists work quietly while their customers sit patiently, admiring the most recent addition to the work that sprawls across their bodies.

The Houston Texas Tattoo Extravaganza, which attracts crowds from around the world and was the first of its kind, features some of the best tattoo artists in the country offering live tattooing and piercings. The convention celebrated its 40 anniversary this year over Easter weekend at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.
A woman has contacted authorities after her child was found early Monday morning alone and wandering along a street near a fast-food restaurant in southeast Houston.

The boy, aged about 2, was spotted about 4:50 a.m. near a McDonald's in the 6900 block of Woodridge, said Kese Smith of the Houston Police Department.

Smith said a customer saw the boy and alerted a McDonald's worker, who went outside, got the boy and brought him into the eatery. The barefoot boy, who was unhurt, wore an orange shirt with a green dinosaur on it and blue pajama pants with cars on them. The worker called police.

When officers arrived, they tried unsuccessfully to find family members of the boy who couldn't tell anyone his name. Police then turned the boy over to state Child Protective Services.

A CPS spokeswoman, Estella Olguin, said the mother contacted authorities about her missing child later Monday morning. She told them the boy was staying with relatives and had left the house without the family knowing he was gone. The mother was not there at the time.

Olguin said the boy appeared healthy and unharmed and was in good spirits. CPS staff fed him and changed his clothes. His mother was headed to the facility on Chimney Rock to see him.

CPS staff, Olguin said, will interview the boy's mother and her relatives at the house where he was staying to determine if the boy was safe in their care. The staff was investigating whether drugs or alcohol played a part in the incident and if the family had had any other contact with state child welfare officials.

It's not uncommon for children to leave their homes once they are able to unlock doors and turn door knobs, Olguin said. She said parents and caregivers should install door locks that are out of children's reach.
Montgomery County Sheriff's Office deputies shot and killed a 33-year-old man who they say pointed a handgun at them Sunday in Splendora.

The incident occurred about 4:40 p.m. in the 14600 block of Ashland Drive, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies identified the man as Earl Ashby.

The sheriff's office gave the following account in a news release:

Deputies said they were sent to the home on a welfare check. When they arrived they were told Ashby had a gun and had gone into a shed near the home. A person in the home told deputies she heard a gunshot from the shed after Ashby went there.

After deputies surrounded the shed and tried to speak with Ashby, the door of the shed suddenly swung open. Ashby came out carrying a handgun.

Deputies ordered him to drop the gun and get down onto the ground but they said Ashby ignored their commands. He moved toward the deputies, raised the gun and pointed it them, according to the report. That's when one of the deputies opened fire, wounding Ashby.

Ashby collapsed and tossed the gun. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

No deputies were injured. The name of the deputy who opened fire has not been released.

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, the Texas Rangers and the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office are investigating the case.
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For an hour or so on Saturday afternoon at the Houston Texas Tattoo Extravaganza at the Crowne Plaza near NRG Stadium, Brian Tagalog was the main event.

Tagalog, 28, was born without arms but that hasn't stopped him from becoming a tattoo artist. He inks clients with his feet, which he places rubber gloves on meant for hands. His toes grip the tattoo machine and he controls the current to the machine, usually done by foot pedal, with his backside.

He's been at it for 11 years in his hometown of Tucson, Ariz. When he's working he's listening to music on YouTube to help with his concentration. His toes have grown to be incredibly tactile.

On Saturday afternoon Tagalog had one client, the legendary tattooist and pop-culture icon Lyle Tuttle, the man who tattooed Janis Joplin and Cher in the '60s and made the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. Tuttle, 84, has been completely covered in tattoos, save for his head, hands, and feet, for decades.

RELATED: The Houston Texas Tattoo Extravaganza celebrates its 40th anniversary

Tagalog tattooed a small, armless stick figure on Tuttle and signed it "Legz" as dozens looked on in awe, smartphones in hand. Once convention goers figure out what was happening, a crowd grew. There wasn't much talking, just hushed attentiveness. Some artists even took a break from tattooing their own clients to walk over and watch.

"I looked up and only saw three people and I looked up again a few minutes later and it felt like 300," he joked after he finished on Tuttle, who had found a bit of space on his left arm, just above his elbow.

After he was done he and Tuttle shared a hug as two important, unique pieces of tattooing history converged. Tuttle has been a part of the culture since 1949 so he's seen a lot. An armless artist? Nothing fazes Lyle.

Artists from all over stopped and talked with their colleague and wished him well as he put back on his Nike shoes and cleaned up his work station.

RELATED: Texas artists show the Latino roots of modern tattoo culture

Tagalog's girlfriend, Marlissa Glenn, 29, and her two children, a boy and girl, accompanied Tagalog to the convention. She's yet to be tattooed by Tagalog but is pondering her choices.

We just havent pinpointed what I want, Glenn says. She still gets a kick out of the attention that Tagalog gets. To her, hes normal. They've known one another since they were in elementary school.

Hes very positive about what he does and it shows that you cant let things limit what you want to do in life, she says.

Tagalog got into tattooing after finding that work was hard to come by.

People wouldnt want to hire me, so one day I came across a tattoo machine and me and my aunt went in half on it, he says.

As far as he knows, hes the worlds first armless tattoo artist. His work can be tracked on his official Instagram page.
A 17-year-old female was struck and injured Monday morning in an auto-pedestrian incident near South Houston High School.

The accident happened just after 7 a.m. a block from the school, near Allen-Genoa Road and Shaver Street.

Life Flight was called to the scene to transport the female to an area hospital for treatment. The driver stayed at the scene to cooperate with authorities. An investigation is currently underway.

According to Pasadena Police Department spokesman Vance Mitchell, the female sustained several broken bones in the incident.

Pasadena Independent School District spokesperson Renee Ivey said the teen is a junior at the school. She was walking to school when she attempted to cross the street, away from a protected crossing.

The female was alert and conscious at the scene, Ivey said, adding that the student did sustain some serious injuries but nothing appears to be life-threatening.

"It's important that we remind our students in the district to use proper crosswalks when going to and from school," Ivey said. "We want our students to always be safe."

Shaver Street was blocked in both directions just before 7:30 a.m. to tend to the scene but has since reopened to traffic.
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Mother Angelica of the Annunciation, the sweet but steely Poor Clares Catholic nun who founded the Eternal Word Television Network, died Easter Sunday at 92.

Religion News Services reports the network, which claims to be the "largest religious media network in the world with around-the-clock programming in 148 countries and territories," began with commercial television spots produced in the garage of Mother Angelica's Alabama monastery.

She launched the network in 1981, and frequently appeared on cable broadcasts to endorse traditional rites and devotions and other conservative aspects of the faith. The news service noted that the nun, born Rita Rizzo in Canton, Ohio, also claimed to have experienced mystical visions.

Mark Brumley, president of Ignatius Press, told the network that "Mother Angelica has been compared to a powerful medieval abbess. But the mass-media instrument she created has extended her influence for the Gospel far beyond that of any medieval abbess and even beyond that of many of the last century's most prominent American bishops."

"Her long-term contribution is hard to assess, of course, but there is no doubt that Mother Angelica has helped root the church in America more deeply in the Catholic tradition," Brumley said. " ... All Catholics in America should thank God for Mother Angelica."

In announcing her death, the network noted that Mother Angelica grew up in dire poverty after her parents divorced when she was 6 years old.

"That's when hell began," she told the National Catholic Register in 2001. "My mother and I were desperate -- moving from place to place, poor, hungry and barely surviving."

The nun told the newspaper that she became aware of God's power when as a teenager she was healed of a stomach malady through the prayers of a Canton woman reputed to possess miraculous powers of healing.

"That was the day I became aware of God's love for me, and I began to thirst for him," she said. "All I wanted to do after my healing was give myself to Jesus."

Mother Angelica joined the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration in 1944, and founded a monastery in the 1990s at Irondale, Ala.

The nun's network appearances sharply were curtailed after she suffered strokes in 2001; last Christmas Eve she experienced a massive hemorrhage, which left her largely incapacitated.

You can read the complete RNS report here.

The Eternal Word Television Network has become the centerpiece of a Catholic media complex including the National Catholic Register newspaper and EWTN Publishing Inc.

An EWTN memorial site for Mother Angelica can be found here.
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Nearly 1,000 suspected gang members - including more than 40 in Houston - have been arrested as part of a nationwide sweep aimed at disrupting transnational crime organizations.

The five-week operation, dubbed "Project Shadowfire," nabbed suspected members of MS-13, Surenos, Nortenos, Bloods and several prison-based gangs. They face charges including homicide, child molestation, weapons violations, human smuggling, drugs, assault and burglary.

CLOSER LOOK: Tattoos define the gangs threatening Texas and the world

Enforcement actions occurred around the country, with the greatest activity taking place in the Los Angeles, San Juan, Atlanta, San Francisco, Houston, and El Paso areas.

In the Southern District of Texas, which stretches from the Houston area south to Laredo, 112 people were arrested with suspected ties to 26 gangs. A dozen people were charged with federal crimes; 100 with state charges, according to a press release describing the operation.

State officials say accused murderers, child molesters and others were among those caught up in Southeast Texas. The operation was a combined state, federal and local round-up. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations partnered with local law enforcement agencies for the sweep during February and March, which netted 1,133 arrests nationwide.

About 240 of the arrested individuals were foreign nationals, from 13 countries in Central America, Asia, Europe and the Caribbean.

Forty-four of the suspects were arrested in Houston. Greg Palmore, an ICE spokesman, said that one of the most significant arrests here included an alleged MS-13 gang member accused of child molestation.

THREAT ASSESSMENT: The state of Texas gangs

Investigators arrested an additional 68 alleged gang members in Corpus Christi, including two believed to be members of the Texas Syndicate. Among those, officials arrested Jessie Salazar, 20, who was arrested for violating the conditions of his bail. Salazar has been charged along with three others in the Aug. 8, 2014 slaying of a 29-year-old Corpus Christi man.

Sean McElroy, the Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of Houston HSI, said agents and officers with ICE and partnering organizations focused on geographical hotspots and specific gangs in their efforts during the five-week surge.

"We basically went through and looked at "who's worst of worst, and what do we need to get them off the street?" he said. "And how can we do that? Is it, 'are we going to get them on a criminal charge?' Some of them may be illegal aliens, where we can deport them, and others may just be surveillance, crime-of-opportunity type things.'"

The goal of the recent operation was to disrupt every-day gang activity, and use the results of the surge to continue anti-gang efforts, he said.

"This is really not the end," he explained. "The idea is, now that we have several people in custody, what can we get out of that ... we want to not only disrupt gang activities, but dismantle the criminal organization."

The department did not release the names of those arrested, although they indicated they have already been charged.

In a statement accompanying news of the operation, ICE Director Sarah R. Saldana said the operation was "the latest example of ICE's ongoing efforts ... to target violent gang members and their associates, to eradicate the violence they inflict upon our communities and to stop the cash flow to transnational organized crime groups operating overseas."

In the Houston region, which by some estimates is home to as many as 20,000 gang members, experts said the arrests were potentially "very significant."

Since the beginning of the year, authorities at the Texas Anti-Gang Center in Houston have arrested 243 gang members, seized 60 firearms, more than 40 kilograms of cocaine and 530 doses of ecstacy along with 1.3 million dollars in cash, $250,000 in real estate, and $150,000 in other assets, said George Rhyne, administrator of the center, which monitors and fights Houston-area gangs.

"The intent is to destabilize these organizations with the ultimate goal of trying to put them out of business," Rhyne said.
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A United Airlines pilot appeared in court Monday on charges of running a string of brothels across the Houston area.

Bruce Wayne Wallis, 51, who was arrested last week on charges with aggravated promotion of prostitution and engaging in criminal activity in what officials said included about a half-dozen brothels in Galleria-area apartments and northwest Houston office buildings with six to 10 women working at each site.

Tracie Tanner, a 37-year-old Rosenberg woman accused of being Wallis' top lieutenant, also appeared in state District Judge Jim Wallace's court.

Both face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted.

In a brief statement outside of the Harris County courthouse, Dan Cogdell, a lawyer for Wallis, scoffed at the allegations.

"This the latest prosecution of the worlds' oldest profession, but it's hardly the crime of the century," he said.

Lawyers for Tanner raised the spectre that she had been forced to work with Wallis, but stopped short of calling her a victim in the case.

"She's in a very scary place right now," said defense attorney Mark Metzger. "We're still investigating."

Wallis, who arrived in court with a handful of lawyers, did not speak as he strode in and out of the courthouse in front of a dozen TV cameras and reporters. United Airlines said Wallis is no longer flying while the charges are pending.

Tanner, who seemed disoriented, sat in a different part of the courtroom and told strangers who asked about the media that she was very upset.

"Since being arrested, I went through the worst 48 hours of my life," she said.
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The red and gold signs perched on a fence surrounding about 20 acres of land hugging the San Jacinto river were blunt: "Go Away. Private Event in Progress."

Past the gate and down a slight hill, hundreds of members of the Bandidos Motorcycle Club were gathering for their 50th anniversary celebration.

Their Harley Davidsons had recently rolled in from around the country, places as far away as Washington , Mississippi and Nevada or as close as San Antonio, Dallas and Houston.

Their longtime leader Jeff Pike, who wore a riding vest with "Bandidos" across the back, sipped Crown Royal and spoke of how he believes the group has changed since the days when "outlaw bikers" were truly outlaws.

Pike, who has been a Bandido for 37 years and president for 11, said despite a May clash in Waco with the Cossacks Motorcycle Club that left nine people dead - and his own indictment on federal racketeering charges - the Bandidos are not a criminal organization.

He discussed his own life as well as in an extensive interview with the Houston Chronicle.

Pike said he's done nothing wrong and notes that most Bandidos these days steer clear of police, have good jobs, and are about the brotherhood of riding their motorcycles.

Pike challenges any notion that the Bandidos are an organization dedicated to breaking the law.

"Prove it," he said. "Prove it. It just ain't there."

Pike has lived on five acres near Conroe for a dozen years. His wife is an accountant. They take cruise-ship vacations and post photos on Facebook. His two children went to a prep school before graduating from the University of Texas at Austin.

He is 60 years old and said he is semi-retired but has a shop on his property where he tinkers with cars and motorcycles.

"I don't think I'm any different than most people," he said. "I get up and walk the dog. My wife goes to work. I do the dishes and make the bed."
An inmate in Galveston County jail switched arm bands with another inmate to bond out of custody late Saturday, according to reports.

Alex Washington, 38, who was jailed on federal bank robbery and gun possession charges in November, switched bands with an inmate who had his $100,000 bond paid by a bail bond company.
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South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, who has become a regular commentator on the Republican primary race, called for Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Ohio Gov. John Kasich to fuse their campaigns into a single ticket, unified against front-runner Donald Trump.

Graham, a reluctant Cruz backer and fierce Trump opponent, said in a New York Times report published Sunday, "A Cruz-Kasich ticket is the best way we can stop Trump."

"It's time to think big here," he said.

RELATED: Odd fellows: Cruz becomes GOP establishment's best hope

Trump has more delegates that Cruz and Kasich combined, with 739 compared to Cruz's 465 and Kasich's 143.

Mathematically, Kasich cannot win the party's nomination through the primary vote, and Cruz faces an extremely slim chance. Both candidates have placed their hopes for victory in the prospect of a contested GOP convention in July, when the party's 2,472 delegates would re-vote if no candidates secures an outright majority.

RELATED: Growing chance of contested convention puts added focus on delegates

Graham's comment came about a week after he abandoned his typical disparagement of Cruz and endorsed him, saying his party faced an urgent need to consolidate against Trump. A trickle of big names followed, like Jeb Bush, but the consolidation never took shape.

"If I can swallow my pride, they can, too," Graham told the Times in reference to his high-ranking Republican colleagues, many of whom still feel great distaste for Cruz, who built his self-professed outsider campaign largely by bashing the record of party leaders.

Bringing Kasich on board could provide a bridge between party leaders and the leading challenger to Trump.

Kasich spokesman Chris Schrimpf said Monday morning that the campaign would not entertain the idea of running under Cruz, highlighting the division that still pervades the GOP field.

"Kasich is the only candidate who can win in November and the only one who actually has the experience to be president," he said.

The Cruz campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
-- TMF: Its not over for me, by David Rauf. Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer says he laments nothing about a failed gambit for the state Senate that will end his 16-year stint with the Texas Legislature. The boisterous San Antonio Democrat, however, is leaving office at the end of the year with a message: Dont write off his political career just yet. Last time I checked this wasnt a retirement party, Martinez Fischer, 45, said in an interview. I dont want anybody to misconstrue my words to think this is my political obituary.

-- Trumps teen fans take grassroots campaign online, by the Chronicles Dylan Baddour. From his bedroom adorned with autographed Trump memorabilia he ordered online, Josh Gremillion, a lanky, blue-eyed senior at Clements High School in Sugar Land, administers a small arm of Students for Trump, a national organization rooted in social media and run by students with an adviser in Trump Tower. Since coming on board in January, the 18-year-old has orchestrated chapter start-ups in Sugar Land, Richmond, The Woodlands, the University of St. Thomas, Texas A&M University and Houston Community College.

-- GOP rallies around Cruz, but only to a point. Case in point: While the Romney and Bush endorsements drew headlines, what has been just as striking is the sound of silence from the vast majority of Republican elected officials and leading donors. Nearly two weeks after Senator Marco Rubio dropped out of the race, there has been no mass rush to Mr. Cruz, even as he appears to be the last line of defense against a Trump nomination, per the NYTs Jonathan Martin and Matt Flegenheimer.

-- A little foreign policy: Mexicans burn Trump effigy as Judas in Easter ritual, by Bloombergs Chris Siron.  Who would you build, if you had to make a monster of mythical proportions? An evil equal to a biblical scourge? A traitor to be burned in effigy whose fiery demise would cleanse our corrupted souls? In Mexico, that would be Donald J. Trump. (J for Judas?)

Or at least a 10-foot-tall papier-mache version of him: eyes wide, mouth agape, with painted-on business suit and golden mane. On Saturday night, just as every year on the day before Easter, Mexicans gathered on street corners and in church squares to celebrate the holy week and set fire to their Judases, a popular ritual in this heavily Catholic country. Those demons are typically forked-tongue devils, flaming dragons, and often reviled politicians.

-- Court watch >> Conservatives to pounce if GOP relents on SCOTUS, by Politicos Burgess Everett. The activist right has been galvanized by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's quick and forceful insistence that the Senate will not take up a high court nominee for the rest of Barack Obama's presidency, spending millions already to defend the GOP position with likely lots more to come. Tea party groups that have dissed McConnell for years as an establishment sellout are singing his praises.

It's safe to say all of that would end the instant Republicans agreed to take up Merrick Garland's nomination. And the fire would turn inward at the worst possible moment for Republicans, as the party is scrambling to save its narrow Senate majority in November.

SPEED READ

Texas Take: GOP learns taming Trump a fools errand, Houston Chronicle

ICYMI: Civil rights groups ask SCOTUS to intervene in voter ID lawsuit, San Antonio Express-News

Ramsey: An Election theme seven years in the making, Texas Tribune

Who is Ted Cruz? The New York Times

Texas oil and gas regulators keep close ties to industry, Austin American-Statesman

Texas lawmakers' crusade against evidence-based research has made this anti-abortion pseudoscience too hot to touch,Texas Observer

The evolving Mayor Taylor, San Antonio Express-News

The massive game of telephone that preceded the Ted Cruz tabloid rumors, The Huffington Post

In Trumps worldview, America comes first, and everybody else pays, The New York Times

Cruz: Trump peddled National Enquirer report because hes scared, The Dallas Morning News

Sanders seizes two western states, some momentum over Clinton, The Dallas Morning News

Fight ensues over body of famed Houston lawyer, Houston Chronicle

Establishment GOP rallies around Cruz, Houston Chronicle

Houston, Harris County officials renew calls to merge crime labs, Houston Chronicle

History shows wives sometimes pulled into nasty presidential politics, The Dallas Morning News

Dewhurst endorses onetime rival Ted Cruz for president, The Dallas Morning News

Dump Trump: Immigrants rush to seek citizenship, right to vote, Fort Worth Star-Telegram

QUOTE TO NOTE

I am saying that Ted Cruz has made this up because he needs it politically because he's losing so badly. Its very easy. And he's doing very badly and he's choking and he's making things up. He's bringing 'em out. I had nothing to do with the National Enquirer story, and frankly, I hope it's not true. Because it's pretty bad. I hope it's not true.

-- Donald Trump in a phone interview  what else?  on Mondays Fox and Friends



RACE TO THE WHITE HOUSE

-- MUST READ THIS MORNING: How the GOP elite lost its voters to Trump, by the NYTs Nicholas Confessore. But the story is also one of a party elite that abandoned its most faithful voters, blue-collar white Americans, who faced economic pain and uncertainty over the past decade as the partys donors, lawmakers and lobbyists prospered. From mobile home parks in Florida and factory towns in Michigan, to Virginias coal country, where as many as one in five adults live on Social Security disability payments , disenchanted Republican voters lost faith in the agenda of their partys leaders.

In dozens of interviews, Republican lawmakers, donors, activists and others described  some with resignation, some with anger  a party that paved the way for a Trump-like figure to steal its base, as it lost touch with less affluent voters and misunderstood their growing anguish.

-- Sanders big caucus wins dont change the shape of the Dem race, by the LA Times David Lauter. Even after Saturday's Sanders victories, Clinton holds a lead of more than 260 in the count of pledged delegates to the Democratic nominating convention. That does not include the additional lead of about 440 that she holds among the so-called superdelegates - party leaders and elected officials who can vote as they choose at the convention. A lead of 260 delegates is a big one - bigger than the lead Barack Obama built over Clinton in 2008. Overcoming it would require some really big wins in big states.

-- Trump ready to visit Wisconsin, but Cruz has a head-start, by the APs Thomas Beaumont. As Cruz campaigned across the state ahead of the Easter holiday, he was following a winning roadmap drawn by Wisconsin governor  and former 2016 presidential hopeful  Scott Walker in 2010, up Wisconsin's rural and working-class midsection the same demographic that has driven Trump's success thus far. Cruz has mined the GOP vote-rich swath of farms and factories from south-central Wisconsin, up the Fox River Valley's corridor of paper mills, small towns  among them, some of the most swing-prone counties in the country.
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.
To the list of things that are as predictable as death and taxes, add the ineffectiveand often wastefulgovernment programs aimed at curbing violence by persons with untreated serious mental illness. Legislators in Congress, New York City, and in state capitols around the country are being misled by mental health industry claims that the mentally ill are no more violent than anyone else. As a result, the most seriously mentally ill are suffering needlessly, while putting the police and the public at risk.

Eighteen percent of adults have one of the more than 300 illnesses described in the American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Many of those illnesses are mild, time-limited, need no treatment, or are readily treatable. But 4 percent of those with mental illness are affected by serious ailments, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, causing them to hallucinate or become delusional and psychotic. When these people go untreated they do have a higher incidence of violence than the general population. Its an unpleasant truth that the mental health industry has encouraged politicians to ignore. Without recognizing the problem, policymakers wont take steps to fix it.

Mayor Bill de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo have so far refused to focus spending on the most seriously mentally ill. De Blasios $800 million ThriveNYC plan largely ignores the seriously ill and focuses on irrelevant sideshows, including training New Yorkers to identify the barely symptomatic. At the behest of the mental health lobby, Cuomo and the state legislature put a donation check-off box on tax-return forms that will raise funds for useless anti-stigma advertising. Not a nickel will go toward treatment of the seriously ill. Cuomos new budget will eliminate beds in psychiatric hospitals, thereby marching even greater numbers of the most seriously ill off to jails, prisons, shelters, and morgues.

Contrast the New York pols approach with that of Pennsylvania congressman Tim Murphy, a practicing psychologist who proposes to replace rampant mission creep with a dose of mission control. Along with Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, the former head of psychiatric nursing in a V.A. hospital, Murphy has proposed the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act (H.R. 2646). It eliminates or defangs federally funded mental-health programs that hurt the seriously ill. The most important is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Located with the Department of Health and Human Services, SAMHSA funds programs that deny the existence of mental illness, encourages states to spend federal block-grant funds on programs that dont help the seriously ill, certifies programs lacking evidence as being evidence-based, invents new illnessesand wastes money.

SAMHSAs own employees rate it the 317th worst out of 320 federal agencies. One hundred of those federal agencies provide services to the seriously ill, so there are plenty of places to park the few useful programs SAMHSA runs. To coordinate and reduce duplication in those programs, H.R. 2646 largely subsumes SAMHSA under an assistant secretary for mental health, whose job it will be to consolidate and refocus programs across multiple agencies. The only support for maintaining SAMHSA comes from those getting funds from it. Legislators should stop listening to them.

H.R. 2646 also reins in the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) program. Congress originally created it to protect the institutionalized seriously mentally ill from abuse and neglect. Its mission has been expanded over time, but it now concentrates on freeing the mentally ill from treatment. Many parents who wanted to provide care for mentally ill loved ones, or prevent a psychiatric hospital from prematurely discharging someone, have had to go up against federally funded PAIMI attorneys. In one of the most famous cases, Joe Bruce told a congressional committee how PAIMI freed his son Willie from a psychiatric hospital in Maine over the objections of Joe and his wife, Susan. After he was freed, Willie killed Susan with a hatchet. New York State and City mental health officials trying to expand services for the seriously ill find PAIMI lawyers putting roadblocks in their way. HR 2646 returns PAIMIs mission to something closer to its original function and prevents it from engaging in federally funded lobbying for its anti-treatment agenda.

The Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act also addresses a critical problem in HIPAA, the patient-privacy law. HIPAA prevents families of the violent seriously ill from getting the information they need to help facilitate care. Families who provide housing need to know what the diagnosis is so they can learn about the illness and help their suffering family member cope. They need to know when doctors appointments are scheduled so that they can arrange transportation, and what prescriptions need to be filled. The public blames parents of seriously mentally ill adult children when something goes wrong, but privacy laws often prevent these parents from accessing vital information. H.R. 2646 carves out a small exemption in HIPAA so that family members who provide housing, case management, and medication canwhen needed to protect health, safety, or welfareaccess a subset of the information that paid providers already receive.

The Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act has so far garnered 186 bipartisan cosponsors and is awaiting passage by the Energy and Commerce (E&C) committee. If passed, it will give states with an assisted outpatient treatment program similar to New Yorks Kendras Law a modest boost in their mental health block grants. Assisted outpatient treatment is only for those seriously ill who regularly go off treatment and have already accumulated multiple instances of violence, arrest, incarceration, or hospitalization. It allows judges to require these patients to stay in six months of mandated and monitored treatment while they continue to live free in the community. It is the only program with independent research showing that it substantially reduces homelessness, arrest, hospitalization, suicide, and incarceration.

The mental illness mess is not being caused by lack of funding. Washington spent $147 billion on mental health in 2014. New York State spends almost $4 billion. But too much of the money winds up diverted from the seriously ill. HR 2646 reduces waste by requiring programs to be evidence-based before theyre implemented. It requires the barometers of success to be reductions in homelessness, arrest, danger, suicide, and hospitalization among the seriously ill rather than sense of wellness and feelings of hopefulness in others. As long as funding keeps going to where the problem isnt, rather than to where it is, all the money in the world wont help solve it.

Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images
The Brussels terror attacks have resurrected a tortured argument against national security measures first minted after 9/11. According to this self-flagellating narrative, Islamic terrorists consciously intend to goad Western countries into diminishing the civil liberties enjoyed by those countries Muslim residents (and enjoyed exclusively in those Western countries). Those Western Muslims will then become so incensed by this irrational restriction on their freedoms that they will join the terrorist jihad.

According to the New York Times, for example, ISIS seeks to manipulate European fears of terrorism and migration. Part of the Islamic States intention, says the Times, paraphrasing French sociologist Gilles Kepel, is to mobilize fears of the enemy within, create further rejection of European Muslim citizens and radicalize them at home, to create a kind of civil war between European Muslims and the crusader states. The president of the London-headquartered International Institute for Strategic Studies, Francois Heisbourg, seconded this interpretation. Reports the Times: In dealing with terrorism through denial of nationality, abuses of civil liberties or an indefinite state of emergency, Mr. Heisbourg warned that you may create the conditions where you end up with the civil war in European societies that Daesh clearly wants.

The Times article also threw in for good measure the usual hallucinatory exculpation of radical Islam in creating terrorists: Some political scientists, like Olivier Roy, a scholar of Islam at the European University Institute, say that Islam does not cause radicalization, but serves as the vehicle for radicalized anger from some Muslim youth. In other words, Western racism causes Islamic terrorism, notwithstanding incidents like Sundays Easter massacre in non-Western Pakistan.

So lets get this straight. ISIS has no respect for civil liberties. Its advocates preach an autocratic, theocratic, tribal society that beheads innocents without the slightest due process of the law. Its power is total and brutal. It seeks to dominate as much of the West as it can by acts of violence that violate every Western norm of combat.

Yet, when it comes to Muslims living in the West, ISIS suddenly becomes a zealous advocate for the same civil liberties that are unknown in its own territory. It allegedly expects Muslims in the West to be protected by an ACLU-certified panoply of rights that it automatically denies residents of its imaginary caliphate. Furthermore, according to this counterintuitive narrative, though ISIS detests the West and would never allow Jews or Christians to colonize ISIS territories, it allegedly gets really hot under the collar at the prospect of any diminishment of open Muslim migration into the hated dens of Western decadence. And ISIS is killing people not because it wants to kill the infidels, but for a far more complicated, two-step reason: to induce Western security measures that only a radical civil libertarian would object to, but that will allegedly arouse Muslim residents of the West into deadly rebellion.

Reality check: ISIS isnt seeking to manipulate European fears of terrorism; it is creating those fears by its own actions. Those fears wouldnt exist but for Islamic terrorism. Any heightened security and immigration measures that Europe may belatedly implement are not the product of some irrational paranoia; they are the product of the demonstrated failure of existing policies to protect innocent lives. ISIS engages in the same brutal tactics in countries with civil liberties and in countries without civil liberties. Those tactics are not designed to trigger a lessening of civil liberties, but to kill as many people as possible.

It is perfectly appropriate and legitimate for the West to institute whatever immigration measures it believes will best protect it from terrorism. Outside very limited exceptions for asylum-seekers and refugees, a nations immigration policies should be developed exclusively to further its own self-interest. It owes entry to no one outside its borders. Europes immigration policies have been a patent disaster; the desperate manhunts across the continent since last week for confederates of the Brussels attackers speak for themselves. Though the horse is already out of the barn, Europe would be insane to preserve the immigration status quo from which it is now reeling, and the United States would be equally insane to follow it down the same self-destructive path.

A country has an obligation to gather the intelligence needed to keep its citizens safe. When the threat is Islamic terrorism, that intelligence-gathering will by definition concern itself with Muslim targets; that is not invidious racism, it is a tautology. Western security investigations remain well within a constitutional framework of checks and balances.

The liberal intelligentsias reflexive blaming of Western society for anti-Western barbarity is the ultimate act of narcissism. That intelligentsia believes that everything that happens is about us. In fact, its not. The remaining pockets of savagery in the world exist independently of the West. According to the liberal elites, however, the West has no right to take common-sense security measures to defend itself against that savagery.

Photo by Chris Hondros/Getty Images
If you draw up a lease, chances are you will find a lessor and a lessee inside. Someone who abducts is an abductor, and the victim is an abductee. English has lots of pairs in which one is a do-er and the other a do-ee.

If you inherit something, you are the inheritor; there is no word inheritee, for the person giving or the person getting.

In fact, when it comes to leaving something behind when you die, not many word pairs share the same root for the giver and the receiver. (Like give and receive, which are different words for opposite actions.)

A rich uncle can be the bequeather who bequeaths a bequest, bequestment, or bequeathal, but the noun for the lucky person who gets all that bequeathable stuff wont have any quest in it at all. (Though all that $$$$ might pay for lots of other kinds of quests.)

That person might be an heir, and what he receives is an inheritance, which at least has the same roots as heir. Another noun for the loot, heirage, showed up around 1478, according to The Oxford English Dictionary, but quickly vanished. You wont often hear someone called an inheritor, though thats a perfectly legitimate word, too, first heard around 1433.

The person who inherits is also a beneficiary, and the rich uncle might be a benefactor. Of course, someone can benefit before the rich uncle dies, so its less precise. Inherit inherently includes the idea of death.

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You dont have to be dead to pass along a legacyjust ask all of the legacy media like print newspapers. If you receive that legacy, you might also be called a legatee. (Or, in newspaper parlance, a subscriber.) But in ancient times, legacy had two meanings: The action or an act of bequeathing, like an inheritance, according to the OED, first used in 1485, and a slightly earlier meaning, from 1384: The function or office of a delegate or deputy. Even today, the Catholic Church has legates, or papal ambassadors. And yes, theyre all related to the roots of legal.

An heir-in-waiting might also be called a scion, which was a popular word even before Toyota started making a car by that name in 2003. Children following in the footsteps of wealthy or successful parents are often called scions, though the usage is almost always applied to a male child, not female.

Scion also literally means an offshoot, a young tip or branch of a plant. Both meanings were particularly appropriate for Toyota, which marketed its car to appeal to younger peoplethe next generation of Toyota buyers-to-be, or, pardon the expression, Scions for scions. Toyota is killing the brand in 2016, bequeathing the name only to the human scions rolling in the green.

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Merrill Perlman managed copy desks across the newsroom at the New York Times, where she worked for twenty-five years. Follow her on Twitter at @meperl.
The last time I talked to John S. Adams, nine months ago, he was living in a cabin on Montanas Rocky Mountain Front, where he used a stack of old newspapers to stoke fires in a wood-burning stove.

An accomplished political reporter, Adams had recently left the Great Falls Tribune amid a much-publicized Gannett restructuring. A couple of Montanas top political journalists had just been let go by another chain when we spoke, creating a hole in the states media ecosystem. At the time, Adams was underemployed and eager to get back to work. But he wasnt ready to be a media entrepreneur.

Im hoping that somebody comes up with a model and then says, You know who we need? John Adams, and then Im ready to go, he told me then. But I dont know the likelihood of that happening. I hope that happens, thats my great hope.

Since thenwith a little prodding from othersAdams has decided to try to build that model himself. The 37-year-old has started his own nonprofit news outlet, The Montana Free Press, under the fiscal sponsorship of the Institute for Nonprofit News. Adams chairs MTFPs board, which also includes an attorney, former Democratic and Republican state senators, and an ex-investigative reporter who is now a licensed private investigator.

Theyve just started raising money, about $5,000 in the first few weeks. But since January, Adams has placed MTFP stories in more than a dozen outlets, including the states major newspapers. He hopes to obtain significant grant support over the first year, and eventually to develop a broad, sustainable mix of small and large donors. Theres no guarantee of success, of coursesmall news nonprofits have met with all sorts of different outcomes since they started proliferating a little less than a decade agobut hes giving it a shot.

I spoke with Adams by phone one night last week about what its been like to take the plunge, and we followed up over email. Below are excerpts from our conversation, edited for clarity.

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You once told me you hoped someone else might start something in Montana, but now youve done it yourself. What made you stick with journalism instead of doing something else?

When we talked last I was kind of on the fence. I had started my own business and was doing some freelance work, and I was doing some writing and I was doing some consulting and that kind of thing. So I was kind of riding that line of doing the whole PR thing. Id done a little of that, mostly for nonprofits and stuff. I did have one corporate client where I was writing some blog posts that had government angles, tracking transportation bills and stuff. So I was getting closer and closer to that line, on the verge of kind of crossing into a realm of pure sort of PR-type work. I felt if I did that, then that would really hamper me in terms of ever going back to being a journalist.

Nobody was knocking on my door saying, Hey, John, wed love to pay you a reasonable, professional salary to be a journalist in Montana.

But you did find some people willing to help you raise money to start something of your own, though?

[I got a call from Greg Lind, a doctor and former state Senator from Missoula.] At the time Lind called me he was distraught, like many people, over the loss of the statehouse reporters. Apparently he had been calling around to his friends in Helena to see what could be done about it. His friends apparently sent him my way and he called me up out of the blue.

He asked if I was still interested in doing journalism. I said I was, but I didnt know how I would get paid. He said, What if we could raise enough money to pay you a living wage? I said great. Thats a totally oversimplified version of the actual conversation, but thats it in a nutshell.

So why a nonprofit model?

I looked at a for-profit model and I looked at a nonprofit model, and I weighed he pros and cons. Ultimately I decided the way that I would be most satisfied that what Im doing is my work and that its completely independent and that I have total editorial control over everything is the nonprofit model.

So I gathered together a group who I considered to be smart, talented, go-getter-type individuals with knowledge of the reporting world. Former journalists, people who are passionate about journalism, inner-circle-type folks, and I got them together and said, What do you guys think about this? And we started approaching some people who have some money in the state and we said, We want to do this, we think that there is an appetite for this kind of independent, unbiased, investigative/political journalism in Montana, do you agree?

And what we heard was, unanimously, Yes, we think this is worthwhile.

And so we were sort of challenged to come up with something. So I came up with the name Montana Free Press, bought the domain, and then I built the website, and then I populated it from my old blog The Lowdown.

So now youre kind of a one-man nonprofit news outlet publishing original journalism, and I see youre partnering with newspapers. How does that work?

Its been a pretty easy sell to the newspapers. Montana is a small state, so I know a lot of these people either personally or by reputation.

The first one was in the Bozeman Chronicle. What happened was I found that someone who I used to view as a competitor had made an FOI request for the same information I had requested months earlier. I thought, shit, I dont really want to have to compete with him on this. So I called him up and I said, How about instead of us working against each other we work together? I talked to him about it, he looped his editor in on it, and I sat down with his editor, and I said, Why dont we just combine resources and you guys provide some editorial services. You give me a copy edit, we work together on this story, you get first crack at it, I publish the story in your paper first, and you guys give me a little bit of editorial oversight. And they said, Yeah, that works great.

So thats how it worked. It was on their website that night, it was in their paper the next day, and then I went around and called up a bunch of other editors I had relationships with and I said, Hey, this story is now available for you to run as well. The Chronicle got their scoop and then these other papers have the opportunity to run it.

Thats kind of the model Im working on right now. If I publish on my website its available for anybody to use, but if Im working with a paper they get first shot at it. They get it free. For me, the bottom line is that the people of Montana get this information.

One of the things we talked about in June was how you were much more into being a journalist than trying to run a business. Now youre doing both.

Yeah. Definitely one of the things Im having to get used to is being the face of an organization. Im doing a lot of public radio, a lot of interviews where Im talking about my reporting.

The biggest challenge is money. We just started raising money. I guess the thing that surprises me the most is just the amount of work that goes into something like this. I mean, its a tremendous undertaking. For someone who is a journalist who has no experience as an entrepreneur, a businessperson or whatever, to start something from the ground up, there are so many details that you have to be on top of at all times. I basically spend about 12 hours a day doing this job right now.

When you talked to me in June I was living in my buddys cabin. Ive had the advantage of being in the position to take a lot of risk, and put a lot on the line because I didnt have a lot to lose. Thats a lot different from somebody that has a mortgage payment, kids in school, whatever. I cant really give good advice to somebody else because I cant imagine most people are going to have the good fortune that I have had of a strong network of people who are willing to help keep me afloat while I embark on this crusade.

What resources have been helpful to you in this venture?

The Institute for Nonprofit News and other individual nonprofit news organizations. A huge breakthrough for me was just looking up INNs membership list and just cold-calling editors. I think INN provides a tremendous resource to anybody starting one of these things, but even more so I think calling up INN members and just talking to these individuals and saying, How did you do it? Most of these organizations come from a similar genesis story. A lot of them are former disgruntled employees from some major corporate newspaper chain who left and started their own thing. But everybody who does it does it differently. Some people raised money first before ever publishing a thing. I think Ive published in more newspapers than some members who have been around for a long time. I had a different model.

Everybody is supportive of everybody else in this business. If youre doing this, its because you believe that journalism is really important, and youre doing it because you have thisI dont want to say hero complex, but you definitely believe that this kind of journalism is really important and really matters. Most people want to help other people who want to do this kind of thing. The advice I would give is to talk to as many of us as you can, because nobodys got it figured out yet.

Is this model possible and sustainable in Montana?

I think thats an open question. I havent answered that yet.

How will you judge success?

If Im talking to you a year from now I will consider that a success. Ill do this as long as it seems viable. Right now I know that Im at the kind of point of the spear in Montana with this. Ive got to give it at least a year I think [to get MTFP on solid footing]. I think were going to get enough funding. I think if we raise $150,000 in our first year and are able to hire a staff member, that will be a huge success. I think if were able to cover the legislature in a meaningful way and provide unparalleled content to every news organization in Montana, Id call that a success.

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Corey Hutchins is CJRs correspondent based in Colorado, where he teaches journalism at Colorado College. A former alt-weekly reporter in South Carolina, he was twice named journalist of the year in the weekly division by the SC Press Association. Hutchins writes about politics and media for the Colorado Independent and worked on the State Integrity Investigation at the Center for Public Integrity; he has contributed to Slate, The Nation, the Washington Post, and others. Follow him on Twitter @coreyhutchins or email him at coreyhutchins@gmail.com.
A defunct General Motors plant in Ypsilanti Township that once pumped out World War II-era bombers is on track to become an autonomous car testing facility after a state board unanimously approved a nearly $3 million grant to get the project started.

The Michigan Strategic Fund board approved the first grant Tuesday. The center will request another $17 million in state aid for the project, but officials said its unclear when that will happen.

Eric Shreffler of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. said the money is for initial legal work relating to the old GM plants environmental history and other consulting theyll do before acquiring the property for the American Center for Mobility to develop the test facility.

The group seeks $79 million total for the project, which would include federal funds. Shreffler says some private investors are interested but couldnt say who or for how much at this point.

John Maddox, CEO of the American Center for Mobility, said hes in contact with federal officials who may authorize some of the remaining $59 million theyre seeking to complete the project. Maddox is a former official for the U.S. Department of Transportation.

He said the project doesnt yet have a firm timeline, but the first step is preliminary legal work and negotiating the land price.

This technology can completely revolutionize the way we move people and goods, Maddox told board members Tuesday. He later added that it was a blank slate and an incredible opportunity.

The project was highlighted by Gov. Rick Snyder during his state of the state address in January of 2016, when he said hes working with Michigans congressional representatives to help make it happen.

Michigan is proud of its auto heritage, but our goal is to be the leader in this industry for generations to come, Gov. Rick Snyder said in a statement Tuesday. We need to stay on the cutting edge of technology connected with our vehicles.

Snyder said the approval of the start-up funds will help Michigan stay a leader and make more and better jobs.

The Michigan Department of Transportation and the University of Michigan are also involved in the project, along with the Business Leaders for Michigan and Ann Arbor SPARK, which describes itself as an engine for economic development, supporting high tech and innovative businesses in the Ann Arbor region.

The project would help do track testing and road simulation, and include a high speed loop thats supposed to emulate a real highway. It also would include urban, rural and suburban areas to test the high-tech cars.

The board also unanimously approved another $5 million grant on Tuesday to be dispensed over the next five years to encourage Chinese companies to invest in Michigan.

The Michigan Strategic Fund board  part of the Michigan Economic Development Corp.  authorized the money to create a business gateway between Michigan and China and help generate jobs while boosting foreign investment in the state.

The project could create job opportunities, said MEDC official Tony Vernaci, but it would not itself create jobs. MEDC spokeswoman Emily Gerkin Guerrant says the Michigan China Innovation Centers role is to generate leads that could provide incentives for companies to move here.

Gov. Rick Snyder has visited China to encourage trade and investment.
Baroque Violinist Melanie Defize Named Among the Dead in Brussels Attack

People gather in the Place de la Bourse to pay tribute to the 31 victims of the attacks in Brussels last week on March 27, 2016 in Brussels, Belgium. The peaceful gathering in the Place de la Bourse was disrupted by right-wing protesters in what is believed to be a demonstration in reaction to last week's terrorist attacks in Brussels. The protest was later dispersed by riot police using water cannons. (Photo : Sylvain Lefevre/Getty Images)

In the aftermath of the attacks in Brussels, families await final reports on their missing loved ones who are slowly being recovered from the wreckage. Among those who perished in the horrific attacks last week is Melanie Defize, 29, a young Belgian musician and musicologist. Defize and the others whose lives were arbitrarily taken in Brussels continue to be mourned as more names are added to the list.

For those who don't know her, Melanie was a baroque violinist who was well-known across all genres of music in the Belgian music scene. She headed the independent label, Cypres Records. She also contributed reviews to the website ForumOpera.

Melanie's colleague at Cypres, Cedric Hustinx, posted from the company website:

"I have the deep pain to announce, on behalf of the label cypres, the death of my assistant Melanie Defize. She is among the victims of the cowardly attacks that have struck the subway Maelbeek in Brussels this Tuesday 22 March....She leaves a void. Her luminous enthusiasm will be with us much longer."

The attacks in Paris and Brussels have both been claimed by the terrorist organization ISIS. In the first months of 2016 there have been innumerable bombings and shootings across the globe that have all been tasks executed by the organization in hopes of expanding their group to all facets of the globe as well as the Internet.

So far, three men have been charged in connection with last week's terrorist attacks in Brussels. As of late, the death toll has risen above 35 people with more than 300 wounded at the site of the blast. One man who was detained, Faycal Cheffou, and who was seen in CCTV along with the bombers, was released earlier today on grounds of insufficient evidence.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to those who are still searching for loved ones in light of the attacks.

To reflect on the destruction that occurred last week, here is a piano player's reaction to the attacks.

 2016 The Classical Art, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

TagsMelanie Defize, Brussels Attacks
AKRON, Ohio-- An Akron police officer shot and wounded a man on Monday afternoon, officials said.

Akron Police Chief James Nice said an officer shot a man about 2 p.m. on 18th Street S.W. and Chandler Avenue. The man was taken to an area hospital in an ambulance. No officer was injured in the incident.

A Summit County Humane agent's van is parked inside the crime scene with a large dent and cracks in the windshield.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting are not clear. More than a dozen police officers are investigating. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is at the scene.

Nice and Akron Safety Director Charles Brown are both at the scene. Defense attorneys Brian Pierce and Joe Gorman, who represent Akron police officers in police-involved shootings, are also there.

Akron's Chief Deputy Prosecutor Craig Morgan and Assiatant Summit County Prosecutor Greg Peacock arrived at the scene and left.

Crime tape covers two blocks on 18th Street S.W.
AKRON, Ohio -- Patricia Powell went Easter shopping with her family early Sunday instead of hanging out with her friends. She texted her mother soon after she left Walmart and said her car overheated on the highway.

Powell, a 17-year-old junior at Ellet High School, told her mother that a friend was coming to pick her up and to not worry. Hours after she didn't return calls or texts from her mother, an Akron police officer called Powell's mother and told her that she was hospitalized after a traffic crash.

Police said about 2:15 a.m. a 63-year-old Tallmadge man slammed into the back of Powell's car that had broken down on the side Interstate 76 eastbound. Powell died at Akron City Hospital. Police said the driver was likely drunk, but the man has not been formally charged.

"She was such a good kid," said her mom, Kelly Grady. "She would help anyone with anything."

Powell was an honor-roll student with a 3.7 grade-point average. She was in the National Honors Society. She played the clarinet and saxophone in the marching band and violin in the school orchestra.

She was in the Key Club, on student council, and volunteered through the Venture Club, which is affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America.

Ellet High School Principal Michelle Marques-Kearns said she was also in school plays and made the morning announcements with a distinct enthusiasm.

"She had such a positive vibe," Marques-Kearns said. "It was contagious. She was so proud of everything she was doing. She was an all-around beautiful person."

Grady said her oldest daughter recently applied to take some college courses during her senior year and planned to attend Kent State University after graduation in 2017.

Powell worked at Eastgate Lanes bowling alley. She previously worked for Aeropostale at Chapel Hill Mall before the store closed.

Grady said that in addition to being a good student, Powell was an attentive big sister who helped care for her three younger siblings, ages 10, 7 and 5.

After learning of her death, her 10-year-old brother climbed into his big sister's bed and cried, Grady said.

"He made an Easter egg for her and asked me why this happened to her," Grady said.
Akron fatal crash 277

Akron police are investigating a fatal crash on Monday.

(Ohio Department of Transportation)

AKRON, Ohio -- A New Franklin man was pulling a deer off a highway on ramp when he was hit and killed by another car, police said.

Randall Seaver, 58, died after being hit about 6 a.m. Monday on the Ohio 224 and Interstate 277 entrance ramp from South Main Street, police said. Police initially identified the ramp as an off-ramp.

Seaver was getting on the highway when he struck a deer with his 2015 GMC Terrain, police said. Seaver stopped, backed up and got out of his truck.

He grabbed the deer and was pulling it to the side of the road when he was struck by a Jeep Liberty.

Akron police are still investigating the crash and no charges have been filed.

The ramp was closed for several hours, police said.
Akron fatal crash 277

Akron police are investigating a fatal crash on Monday.

(Ohio Department of Transportation)

AKRON, Ohio -- A pedestrian walking near a highway off-ramp early Monday died after being hit by a car, police said.

The crash happened about 6 a.m. on Ohio 224 eastbound at the South Main Street exit.

Two lanes of the highway are shut down. Akron police, EMS and the Summit County Medical Examiner are at the scene to investigate.

Police said that stretch of highway is expected to be closed for several hours.

More information about the incident is expected to be released later in the day, police said.

It's the second fatal crash in Akron in two days. A 17-year-old girl died early Sunday after a suspected drunken driver slammed into the back of her car that was pulled over on the side of Interstate 77.

The Ellet High School student died. The 63-year-old Tallmadge man driving the car is in the hospital, police said.
One year after launching MM.LaFleur, an online clothing shop for professional women, Sarah LaFleur couldn't figure out why the company's sales weren't growing faster. Once customers placed their first order, they were quickly converted into repeat buyers; acquiring new shoppers, however, was proving a challenge. So in February 2014, some 13 months after the company's launch, the founder and CEO had an idea. What if, instead of requiring busy women to sort through the selection of work wear on its website, the company selected the best merchandise for them?

Sarah LaFleur, founder and CEO of MM.LaFleur Source: MM.LaFleur

When this new business model officially rolled out in October of that year, the company's order volume tripled. "When we launched this ... model where we're saying, 'OK, we'll pick everything for you,' that's really when our business took off," LaFleur told CNBC from the company's downtown Manhattan headquarters. At a time when Amazon alone offers more than 500 million products for sale, the idea of introducing shoppers to a decidedly finite list of items seems counterintuitive. After all, part of Amazon's appeal is its recognition as a one-stop shop where consumers can purchase anything from dog food to designer jeans. That same vast assortment, however, can also be somewhat of an Achilles' heel for the site. Enter online styling services such as MM.LaFluer and Stitch Fix, which cater to women who simply don't have the time to sort through an endless stream of product. "To every trend there typically is a countertrend that makes sense," said Mary Brett Whitfield, senior apparel analyst at Kantar Retail. "These services really help curate a broad product selection down to something that is specific and personalized to an individual shopper."

The 'Aha' moment

LaFleur, a Harvard graduate who started her career in management consulting and private equity, founded MM.LaFleur in 2011. She started with just $70,000, including $35,000 that she had saved, and a $35,000 loan from her parents.

From April until September that year, LaFleur ran the business solo out of her New York City apartment, and tutored on the side for cash. That fall, with the help of a headhunter, she brought on the former head designer of the Zac Posen fashion label. At that time, LaFleur said the company's goal was to create stylish yet work-appropriate attire that was high-quality and relatively affordable. Although that ethos remains the same, the brand needed a major pivot in its business model for sales to take off. "Our big 'aha' moment was when we realized a lot of our customers, for them, their clothing is actually not the most important thing," LaFleur said.

So in February 2014, MM.LaFleur piloted its Bento Box model. Here's how it works: Shoppers visit the company's website and answer a series of questions about their workplace style, and whether they admire someone like Sonia Sotomayor over Beyonce. After providing their sizing, the styling service sends them a box of four to six items, starting at $35 for accessories and going up to $325 for dresses or jewelry. Shoppers receive the first box for free, and pay only for the items they keep. After the first box, a $25 styling fee is charged per box, but is waived if an item is kept. (Unlike similar services, MM.LaFleur is not subscription-based. Instead, shoppers notify their stylist when they would like to receive a new Bento Box, or they can select items from the site on their own.) Though LaFleur said it was obvious that this model was where the company's future growth would come from, she admits there were a lot of operational headwinds when it first started. "Customers are saying, 'I want polka dots and pinstripes,' and if you don't have polka dots and pinstripes you can't send it," she said. After one month, the company shut down the test to retool its design, production and other operational strategies. Eight months later, in October 2014, the new business model officially launched. After initially struggling to grow sales, MM.LaFleur's sales increased a whopping 570 percent last year, with nearly 40 percent of its customer base making a follow-up purchase within four weeks. For 2016, the company is on pace to bring in $30 million in revenue. And just five years into existence, the business is breaking even. In addition to its online shop, MM.LaFleur operates a showroom in its New York City headquarters, which it's in the process of expanding from three to six dressing rooms. The company has also tested pop-up locations in cities such as Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, and is considering opening a permanent store in D.C. It recently launched an at-home styling service in New York City, and later this year, will expand its assortment into shoes and bags. "What we've always wanted to do since day one is be the one-stop shop for professional women," LaFleur said. "It's baffling to me why they're such an overlooked category."

Taking a page from bricks and mortar

Unlike MM.LaFleur, Stitch Fix was designed to be a styling service from the get-go. CEO and founder Katrina Lake, who started the company in 2011, had noticed that online shopping sites were focusing heavily on operational issues  such as how to get a package to a customer quickly and cheaply  but not necessarily paying much attention to the product itself.

Lake concluded that the future of retail would not consist of shoppers spending hours weeding through the thousands of culottes on the Internet to find the right pair; instead, by using data and customer feedback, she envisioned a world in which a stylist could choose the right product for an individual shopper's tastes and body type. "Ironically, I think some of the inspiration around Stitch Fix is really what was great about stores in the heyday of stores," Lake told CNBC, referring to the role of the in-store sales associate.

Katrina Lake, founder and CEO of Stitch Fix Source: Stitch Fix

Five years later, and staffed with some 4,000 employees, that thesis has not changed. The way in which Stitch Fix operates, however, is markedly different. Whereas Lake used to gather the company's intel from SurveyMonkey polls and organize it on Excel spreadsheets, shoppers now fill out an extensive style quiz on its website, including how much they typically spend on accessories or dresses. Each time a customer receives a shipment, they're charged a $20 styling fee, which can be used toward purchasing one of the five items in their order. If they keep the whole box, they get 25 percent off. The average price of an item is $55, and shipments can be scheduled to arrive as often as every two to three weeks, or every three months. Customers also have the option to skip the subscription model and manually schedule shipments. According to CrunchBase, Stitch Fix has raised $46.75 million in three rounds of funding from four investors. Separately, a 2015 Re/code article reported that the company would generate more than $200 million in revenue that year. Lake declined to comment on those figures or whether the company is profitable. Looking forward, Stitch Fix recently started testing a men's business, and Lake said she would eventually love to expand into plus sizes. "The thing that ties all of our customers together is this feeling of being ... busy," she said.

Personalization at scale
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Alas, the deadline to file 2015 taxes is fast approaching. But for savvy business owners, the prep work for next year's taxes is just beginning. Small businesses collectively face an average effective tax rate of 19.8 percent, according to the US Small Business Administration's Office of Advocacy. That can amount to thousands of dollars or more in taxes each year  no pocket change for your typical mom-and-pop shop. The good news: While it's likely too late to reduce the taxes you'll owe by this year's April 18 filing deadline, entrepreneurs who start preparing today could reap thousands of dollars in deductions next year, financial experts say. Read MoreWant to start a business? Here are 3 important tips

"There's always some missed opportunity on deductions for small business owners," said John Wheeler, a CPA and senior financial consultant at Castle Wealth Advisors in Indianapolis. From tracking the miles you drive to wrangling receipts, here are five key moves business owners should make to take the sting out of tax time next year.

1) Keep your business and personal accounts separate

If you're not an incorporated company, you aren't required to keep a separate bank account for your business  but it's still a good idea for several reasons, said Gail Rosen, a CPA in Martinsville, New Jersey.

Handling your personal and company expenses in different accounts makes it easier to keep records and prepare tax filings for the following year, Rosen said. And, if you happen to be audited, you won't have to sift through your personal transactions. "The thing to do is to have a separate checking account for any business-related expenses," Wheeler said. "You could open up a credit card that you only use for business expenses, and that will solve about 90 percent of your problems."

2) Follow expenses and taxes as you go

Recording expenses as they happen  not six months after the fact  can help save time, reduce the chance of accounting errors, and maximize tax returns.

"Trying to remember what you spent money on six or nine months ago is a waste of time when you could easily report that in the moment," said Andrew Mellen, an organizational expert and author of Unstuff Your Life. "A lot of us tell this old story of how this is going to take so long, or how we don't have the time. It's a lie." Rather than scrounging around for crumpled-up receipts, consider using new technology to make life easier. Expensify is a mobile app that lets you take photos of receipts, then automatically records and categorizes each expense  without the need for you to type numbers in manually. The app is free for individuals, and $5 to $9 a month for groups, depending on desired add-on features. If you're not a fan of taking pictures, you can also link up your credit or debit card to the app, allowing Expensify to record every payment you make with a card.



Likewise, cloud-based service ZenPayroll helps you calculate income taxes every month. The company charges a base fee of $25 a month and automatically calculates all income, state, and federal payroll taxes you owe. It also files a report to the government when you hire a new employee, letting you skip some paperwork, and gives employees access to pay stubs online.

For other big-picture planning, math-minded folks might be happy to track expenses in an Excel spreadsheet. But others should consider using accounting software to save time and effort, Rosen said. Paid options like QuickBooks or Sage 50 and free programs like Wave can help small business owners track expenses, record invoices and payrolls, and generally stay on top of bookkeeping.



3) Claim your home office deduction  the right way.

Taxpayers who designate a space in their home to use exclusively for business can get money back through the home office deduction.

There are two ways to calculate the deduction. The simplified method is relatively straightforward, worth $5 times the square footage of your home office. Alternatively, you can still use the regular method, which takes into account not only square footage, but also utilities, mortgage interest or rent, and property taxes. Read MoreSmall business reinvention is all about the branding

Rosen recommends that business owners who work from home take the time to do both calculations, then choose the deduction that generates the biggest returns. Why? The simplified method is capped at a maximum of 300 square feet  meaning the biggest deduction you could get is $1,500. "Many people shy away from the home office deduction, or they just use the simple method," Rosen said. "They're leaving money that's owed to them on the table." One important thing to note, Rosen said, is that whatever room a business owner claims as their home office must be used exclusively for business. "You can't have any personal activities going on in that home office," she said.



4) Track miles driven in your car

Like the home office deduction, deductions for business use of vehicles can be calculated in two ways: Based on miles driven, at 54 cents per mile, or based on actual expenses  including gas, maintenance, repairs, tires, insurance, depreciation, and other costs.

Business owners should keep careful records of all car-related expenses throughout the year, Rosen said, so they can try out both calculations, and compare the deductions they'd get from them. One easy way to track travel? Use your phone. MileIQ, a mobile app for iPhone and Android, uses GPS to record how many miles you drove and where you drove to, making it easy to figure out your auto-related deductions at the end of the year. The app is free if you use it for 40 trips or fewer per month, or $5.99 a month or $59.99 a year for unlimited trips.



5) If you have an open position, consider hiring a family member

Small businesses that have positions to fill may want to consider hiring qualified family members. If you employ your own family members, you may be eligible to deduct their wages as a business expense  and in turn, minimize the amount of taxable income you're on the hook for.

Hiring a child under 21, for instance, could save you from paying Federal Unemployment Tax Act taxes on those wages. (The exemptions don't apply if you have a partnership that includes non-parent partners, or if you run an S-corporation.) Hiring a spouse as an employee  but not as a partner  could also exempt you from paying FUTA taxes on those wages.
Uber has been investing heavily in both China and India and said after spending time in those markets, Uber chief executive Travis Kalanick told CNBC he was convinced that cities there could rival San Francisco.

The Bay Area of San Francisco is known for its highly-valued start-ups. Uber is headquartered there and is the world's most valuable start-up worth over $62 billion.

Innovation out of Beijing will rival Silicon Valley in the next five-to-10 years, the boss of U.S. ride-hailing app Uber told CNBC.

"The Chinese culture is incredibly entrepreneurial andhas incredible educational institutions, they have great engineering here and so I think the surprise that maybe a lot of folks will be seeing in the next five to 10 years if the amount of innovation that's gonna be happening in Beijing, is gonna start to rival what we see in the Bay area," Kalanick told CNBC at the Boao Forum in China.

"I like to say that the global innovation hubs in the coming 10 years is about the 3 Bays. It's the Bay Area, its Beijing and its Bangalore. And Beijing's rise as a technology hub is about to be seen in a big way at least that's my sense."

India has been a big focus for Uber's international expansion in the last year. In 2015 it pledged to pour $1 billion into the region on top of receiving funding from Indian business giant Tata. In China, its division is valued at $8 billion. But in both markets, Uber faces stiff competition from innovative start-ups out of the country's technology hubs.
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Uber has seen "hundreds" of cities become profitable in the past six months and is betting that in two years' time it will start to see parts of China start to make money, the chief executive of the U.S. ride-hailing app told CNBC. The company  which is valued at over $62 billion  recently said that it is profitable in the U.S. but losing over $1 billion a year in China. However, Uber's boss defended this, saying that the company, which currently operates in 400 cities around the world, will not be able to scale up without investing and being unprofitable for a while. "If you are focused on profits right out of the gate, you're gonna have the smallest profitable business that has ever been seen," Travis Kalanick, told CNBC at the Boao Forum in China.

DLD Conference

"The good thing though is when you have profitable cities around the world, those profitable cities can then help us to invest more deeply in this country so you take like thetop 30 cities that we're in around the world, we're already generating a billion dollars in profits from those 30 cities a year today and those cities are growing by 2, 3, 4 times per year. And so that is sort of the fuel that allow us to go to places like China and invest deeply to make, to make the system work and to work in a big way." Asked by CNBCs Geoff Cutmore if he was losing a $1 billion a year in China, Kalanick replied he was "investing" a $1 Billion a year in the country.

Kalanick added that in the last six months "we've just been watching literally hundreds of cities go profitable, we've just tightened up the operationwe're getting good at running profitable cities".
The Chinese government will conduct its first survey of the number of children left in rural villages when their parents leave to work in cities, reported the China Youth Daily over the weekend.

Known as "liu shou er tong," or "left-behind" children, over 60 million under-18s are estimated to be either left in the care of elderly relatives or left unsupervised in villages when their parents migrate.

A comprehensive study will determine the best care that these children need, the paper reported, citing officials at a conference on the social issue over the weekend.



The authorities will also include about 36 million children who moved to the cities with their parents in the study, the report said.

The phenomenon of "left-behind" children, which has grown along with increasing industrialization in China, is causing social concern as these minors often lack proper care and have been involved in suicides, accidents and juvenile delinquency.

In a high profile case last June, four siblings in a village in the Guizhou province died after drinking pesticide. They reportedly left a suicide note.

The case prompted Prime Minister Li Keqiang to call for preventive measures.

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The chief money launderer for notorious drug lord Joaquin Guzman Loera has been detained in southern Mexico, the country's Federal Police said Sunday.

In a statement, police said Juan Manuel Alvarez was captured in Oaxaca City "without firing a single shot."



"The coordination of intelligence and field work allowed us to track down the subject, between the states of Sinaloa and Jalisco, but as he relaxed his safety perimeter to spend the holidays in the capital of the state of Oaxaca, the capture was carried out," the statement said.
Only one person  Faycal Cheffou  has been charged directly in relation to the Brussels attacks.

Belgian authorities posted a fresh appeal for information on Monday about the mysterious "man in white" pictured in surveillance footage pushing a luggage trolley alongside the Brussels airport suicide bombers.

It looks like the "man in white" is still out there.

Belgian media had cited police sources in saying Cheffou was the "man in white" on the right in the airport surveillance footage. NBC News has been unable to confirm that information.

However, police early Monday posted a new statement with video and photos of the "man in white" which said authorities are seeking to identify the man  who is suspected of committing Tuesday's attack at Brussels airport.

That appeared to call into question reports which said Cheffou was third man spotted captured on video at the airport and raised the possibility that a key suspect in the attacks might still be on the run.

It wouldn't be the first time the suspect was misidentified: Police sources had at one point named the man in the hat and light jacket as Najim Laachraoui, the suspected Paris attacks bomb-maker. However, officials later corrected that and said Laachraoui had died in the attack.

Belgian prosecutors last week said the "man in white" had fled the airport just before the two blasts hit and had left behind a large bag.

His bag contained the "largest" explosive charge, the prosecutor told a press conference last week, saying it detonated "just before the bomb squad arrived" due to the instability of the explosives. No one was hurt.

The 32-second video released Monday by police blurred out the faces of the other two men in the frame  who have previously been identified as Laachraoui and Ibrahim El Bakraoui. It showed the third suspect  in a dark bucket hat, glasses and light jacket  pushing a luggage cart loaded with a black bag.

El Bakraoui had been flagged to Belgian authorities as a suspected militant when he was deported by Turkey in June. He was also convicted in 2009 of shooting at police with an assault rifle. His brother Khalid blew himself in the Brussels

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Despite their deep pockets and large appetites, Chinese acquisitions are beginning to disappoint. They face a toxic cocktail of political, economic, and cultural headwinds. And the cracks that now appear in some of the early deals should serve as an early warning sign for future deals.



Certainly a number of deals face political risks and are thwarted before they even have the chance to get off the ground.

Anbang, an upstart insurance company,is attempting to acquire Starwood Hotels and Resorts, after having acquired Strategic Hotels and Resorts for $6.5 billion and the Waldorf Astoria property in New York City for almost $2 billion. Though Starwood accepted a higher bid from Marriott, Anbang has reportedly raised its offer.



Fairchild Semiconductor recently rejected a takeover by a state-backed Chinese company. In spurning the deal, Fairchild suggested that the deal was likely not to receive approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) because acquisitions in the semiconductor industry raise substantial national security concerns. But even those that are allowed to go through face political risks after the deal gets done. Cnooc, for example, is currently embroiled in a series of battles with political officials over its hiring and firing practices in Canada.
The four indexes above are weighted by market cap. On an unweighted basis, the 125 companies without buybacks have a median return of minus 5.1 percent  better than the median minus 6.4 percent return for companies that both reported buybacks and a reduction in shares outstanding.

The 100 companies with the highest buybacks as a percentage of market cap have a median return that is even worse at minus 9.5 percent in the last year. These companies include Big Lots, Hewlett-Packard, Macy's, Xerox and Kohl's.

That effect, of course, could be due to any number of other economic forces independent of a company's decision to do buybacks. But it does point to what many market watchers have warned about in recent years: that the recent enthusiasm for stock repurchase programs could come at the cost of future growth.

Stock buybacks have become a popular vehicle for returning excess cash (or in some cases, borrowed cash) to shareholders, without the commitment usually associated with a dividend. While they can be a good strategy if management thinks the company's shares are undervalued, buybacks also mean less money left for companies to use on capital expenditures and other investments.
Belgian authorities said Monday the death toll from the Brussels terrorist attacks last week rose to 35. Additionally, they said Saturday three more suspects had been charged with terrorist offenses.

"What you've got are the folks in Brussels, the Euro institutions, imposing incredibly high standards with regard to personal privacy at the expense of what the national governments are still expected to do, which is keep their citizens alive."

"In the European Union, the division of labor between the union government and the national governments is that questions of commerce and of privacy are held by the Brussels bureaucrats. Questions of security remain in national capitals," Hayden told CNBC's " Squawk Box ."

The EU may have to compromise on privacy protections in order to defeat terrorism, former CIA director Michael Hayden said Monday.

The Brussels bombings came four months after more than 100 people were killed in Paris attacks executed by the so-called Islamic State.

In another "Squawk Box" interview, Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer said: "Clearly we are getting inured [in the U.S.] to the level of continual terrorist attacks that's occurring across the European continent. How much we feel like we need to do about that is a problem for the United States. It's a bigger problem for the Europeans."



"The fact is we have huge attacks in places like Turkey, Iraq and Afghanistan that make no impact whatsoever. In Europe, it has a bigger impact because we understand and we connect to that more. But even there, the level that requires us to really pay attention  has been getting higher and higher."

If these attacks continue in Europe, there could be long-term economic ramifications for the continent, Atlantic Council CEO Fred Kempe said on "Squawk Box."

"The Schengen [agreement allowing open borders in EU countries] could absolutely collapse, and if it collapse, you could have an EU collapse with it," he said.

The Schengen pact not only facilitates travel, but also commerce. Kempe said the 2015 free trade flow between Schengen members was $2.8 trillion and that "people estimate 10-to-20 percent of that could be lost."
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Myanmar's baby step toward a modern financial system got a big thumbs up, with investors standing in line to buy shares of the country's first listed stock. Shares of financial services-to-healthcare conglomerate First Myanmar Investment leapt as much 19 percent on the Yangon Stock Exchange from the issue price of 26,000 kyat ($21.50) when trading began on Friday. Nearly 113,000 shares traded hands. "We had people queuing up for hours to get into the few appointed, few licensed securities firms to put in their bid orders to buy," said Serge Pun, the head of First Myanmar Investment, which became the first listing on the Yangon Stock Exchange. "I actually did not expect there was so much interest." Pun attributed the popularity to interest from retail investors.

"We don't have institutional investors yet," Pun told CNBC. "One of the main factors is [retail investors] are very eager to have different options to invest their savings, to invest their money and that's what we see. This is one of the more transparent investment vehicles so to speak." More than 70 percent of the country's adults lacked access to formal financial services as of 2013, according to the Making Access Possible initiative, which partners with the U.N. and the government. Many Myanmarese use gold as a savings vehicle. The stock exchange's single listing represents another important step for the one-time pariah nation, which is slowly working to open up its economy and its political system after around five decades of military rule that left the country deeply impoverished. Per capita gross domestic product (GDP) in Myanmar, which was formerly known as Burma, was only around $1,200 in 2014, according to the World Bank. This compares with around $1,800 in Laos and $2,052 in Vietnam.


A new report out by the National Association of Realtors showed that pending home sales have risen to a 7-month high for February, and yet total home sales plunged to a 3-month low and is down more than 7%.

CNBC Contributor Ron Insana thinks high-end housing is headed to crash, particularly in New York where he's seen a dangerous oversupply, citing slowing demand, especially from foreign buyers.

"Power Lunch" interviewed three different real estate agents to understand the state of high end housing around the nation.

South Florida

"The lull in contract signings is likely from the large East Coast blizzard, along with the slump in the stock market," Sam DeBianchi, founder of DeBianchi Real Estate told CNBC.



"Prices have gone up in Miami from 9% year over year, and wages have only increased 3-4%. People aren't able to spend as much, because they're not making as much," DeBianchi said. "Buyers can purchase though, because rates are still low."

DeBianchi cautions that's it's not a market to be flipping. "If you are an investor, however, it's still a great time to buy and rent it out, because you can still find those cash on cash returns."
David Lees | Getty Images

Unemployment may be low, but Tony Faustino, 50, isn't betting his future on a traditional job. Faustino, a father of two, left his six-figure corporate marketing career to start his own marketing firm in Overland Park, Kansas, in April of 2015. Given the regulatory pressures squeezing the pharma and biotech companies he served, the long-term future didn't look promising. An article he'd read years ago about men getting downsized from corporate jobs at age 50 kept haunting him. "So many people are in denial about what is happening in corporate America right now," he said. "I wanted to have more control of my professional destiny."

Study after study shows that traditional jobs are fading around the globe. A much discussed recent report from the World Economic Forum, for instance, showed that the 15 top global economies could lose 5.1 million jobs in the next five years, thanks to trends such as robotics. But experts say work in itself isn't disappearing. What is declining, they say, is how it is packaged. Rather than employ people in traditional jobs, more employers are choosing to hire contractors. Fifty-four percent of the talent in businesses today is made up of traditional workers, but by 2017 that percentage will be down to 41 percent, according to a study released in October by research and advisory firm Ardent Partners and partially underwritten by Fieldglass, an SAP-owned company that provides vendor-management solutions. That is because almost 70 percent of organizations are expected to hire more contingent workers in the next 12 months, Ardent Partners found. Today, work once done mainly by people in traditional jobs can easily be done through other means, such as outsourcing to freelancers, said David Creelman, CEO of Creelman Research, a human resources analytics firm in Toronto that serves many U.S. clients, and co-author of the book Lead the Work: Navigating a World Beyond Employment. "Because of that, we'll see fewer jobs," he said.

With corporate America providing less income security, many Americans are acting in self-defense by joining the free-agent economy, whether as full-time independent contractors or by using work found through platforms like Uber to supplement their pay. "One [job] protection is to go freelance," said trends expert Daniel Levine, director of The Avant-Guide Institute in New York City. By all accounts, the number of free agents has been ticking up since the recession. In research released in 2015, the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that 40.4 percent of U.S. workers had a contingent work arrangement in 2010  meaning they were small-business owners, freelancers, contractors, temps, on-call workers, contract company workers and traditional part-timers. With many companies giving employees a lot of autonomy anyway, traditional employees often already work in ways that are hard to distinguish from freelance workers, notes Nathan S. Gibson, the Woburn, Massachusetts-based vice president of independent contractor compliance for Randstad Sourceright US, a talent solutions firm. "The line gets blurrier and blurrier," he said. Some experts now predict that even more than 40 percent of the U.S. population will be freelancing in some capacity in the near future. Creelman says it's hard to predict but says the percentage of free agents could rise as high as 60 percent in the next 20 to 30 years. It is a trend that became deeply rooted during the recession. "After the 2009 and 2010 bust cycle, you didn't really see the reversal of the trend," said Mike Ettling, president of SAP SuccessFactors, which provides human resources solutions. "That whole rise of contingents is separating itself from the economic cycle. It's happening across all sectors  blue collar, white collar, everything."

Many of the new crop of freelancers didn't out start out wanting to freelance. They are joining the free-agent economy on a part-time basis because of stagnating wages and the decline of middle-wage jobs, said Steve King, a partner at Emergent Research, a company in Lafayette, California, that studies the independent workforce. "The real growth is in the number of people doing side gigs," he said. That trend has prompted the growth of sites like Moonlighting, which helps users find side work. Moonlighting has raised $3.1 million in financing, with the most recent, $1.2 million round led by media firm The McClatchy Company, in February. "Wages have not gone up in 10 to 15 years," said CEO and founder Jeff Tennery, a former corporate executive and father of five. "I set out with moonlighting to solve a wage gap."

A global boom

The U.S. economy isn't the only one seeing a boom in side gigs. In a survey of 1,103 people released in November 2015, Selz a platform that helps small businesses sell products through their own blogs and websites  found that 16 percent of working adults in the United States, the U.K. and Australia are actively engaged in a side business. The majority said they were doing so to make more money. Among the respondents, 59 percent work full-time in another job, and 47 percent are married with children, the survey found. Despite their other responsibilities, many are doing quite well in their side businesses. The respondents, who had a mean household income of $74,500, were pulling in an average of $24,500 of their pay through a side business and work an average of 14.5 hours per week. Martin Rushe, CEO and co-founder of Selz, found that many of these small-business owners no longer want to rely on their full-time employers for economic security. "The trust in corporations continues to deteriorate," he said. "So many of the people who start these businesses do so because they hope it will become their main source of income, at which point they will be able to escape the daily grind."

Invoice2Go, a provider of invoicing software based in San Francisco, also serves a number of moonlighters. In a recent survey, the company found that 22 percent of customers report they use the service to prep invoices for a side gig. Although half said they run their side business to make extra money, more than 93 percent agreed they wouldn't give up their microbusiness even if they could focus exclusively on their main job. Greg Waldorf, CEO of Invoice2Go, says he tries not to be sentimental about the economy of the past, because technology is making it much easier for individuals to start a business today. "This brings so many more people to the forefront of opportunity," he said.

The millennial route

With traditional careers offering less security and flatlining compensation, some millennials are opting out of four-year college degrees and career-track jobs. Disappointed that his associate's degree led only to a series of low-wage jobs in industries from day care to retail, Allen Walton, 28, started his own online spy-camera store, SpyGuy Security, in May 2014  abandoning the idea of working for someone else altogether. Today the company brings in more than $1 million in revenue and employs three people. "In the end, I could only trust myself to make the kind of money I want," he says. Kathryn Cockrell, 21, started Happy Hound Pet Sitting, a pet-sitting business in Fairhope, Alabama, bypassing a college degree even though her parents  both pharmacists who have worked for the same hospital for years  encouraged her to get one. She felt that running her own business gave her plenty of economic security.

"In the past, it's always been, 'Go to school to get a law degree,'" she says. "They had set degrees that locked you into a certain career. What I think is really cool about this day and age is people can have multiple passions. You don't have to go to school to become who you want to be and do what you want to do."



A new model of education
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Japan is due to switch on a new radar observation station in the East China Sea on Monday, a move that will likely infuriate Beijing and mark the latest escalation in the long-simmering dispute between the two Asian heavyweights.

Tokyo's new Self Defense Force base is located on Yonaguni, an island located 150 kilometers south of the disputed territory known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China. The new base can be used as a permanent intelligence gathering post as well an outlet for military operations in the region, adding to Tokyo's existing military buildup along the Yaeyama Island chain, which includes Yonaguni, Reuters reported. China has yet to make a statement regarding the move, but strategists say it won't deter the mainland from more aggressive expansion in the zone. "This is the latest step in Japan's response to China's forceful symbolism in the East China Sea," noted Steve Wilford, Asia Pacific director for global risk analysis at Control Risks Group. Japan has repeatedly called on Beijing to halt activity in the area, particularly the construction of oil-and-gas exploration platforms, after China declared an air defense identification zone (ADIZ) there in 2013.

The disputed area consists of eight islands, with a total area of 81,000 square miles; it's home to an estimated 200 million barrels of oil reserves, according to the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR). Formally part of Japan since 1895, China began to assert claims over the islands during the 1970s given their strategic location near prominent shipping routes as well as an abundance of fishing. But the geopolitical value of the islands is bigger than the geological value of the resources under the water, noted Richard Martin, executive vice president at IMA Asia. While neither Japan nor China have forcibly established control over the islands, the fear is that even small developments could rapidly escalate hostilities and trigger military confrontations. "This is a situation that has gone from 30 years of being a frozen conflict to one that is increasingly warming up," said Wilford. "What China wants to do is put a mark on the fact that this territory is disputed... China's intention is to sow doubt into territorial claims and pick off the neighbors one-by-one in bilateral negotiations while changing the physical status-quo on the ground with bases and missiles."

Fishing boats set off for the East China Sea from the Shipu port in Ningbo, China. ChinaFotoPress | Getty Images
The stock market's roller-coaster ride this year and the uncertain global economic outlook have a lot of investors nervous. Not surprisingly, anxious investors often make bad financial decisions, dumping stocks out of fear when the market tumbles, thereby locking in losses. By understanding risk tolerance and allocating money among asset classes accordingly, investors are often less prone to make impulsive decisions when the market bounces around, as it has this year.



Blend Images | Getty Images

Yet the seemingly simple concept of risk tolerance is widely misunderstood by investors and financial advisors alike, said Tyler Nunnally, U.S. strategist for FinaMetrica, a Sydney, Australia-based firm specializing in risk-tolerance testing. In basic terms, risk tolerance is the level of comfort that an investor has with taking financial risk. All investments carry risk, and generally speaking, riskier investments produce higher levels of return over time and vice versa. One of the most common misconceptions about risk tolerance is that it fluctuates based on how an investor feels about what's happening in the market at any given time, said Nunnally. In fact, an investor's risk tolerance, if properly measured, is essentially fixed, much like certain personality traits, he added.

"Risk perception is a state of mind and can be volatile," said Nunnally. On the other hand, he added, "risk tolerance is an inherent behavioral trait, like introversion or extroversion, and as such it is rather stable over time." His firm is a purveyor of psychometric risk-tolerance tests used by advisors, financial institutions and do-it-yourself investors. The tests produce numerical scores that correspond to different risk groups, from least risk-tolerant to most risk-tolerant. Most people, said Nunnally, fall somewhere in the middle. "The score is mapped to a range of risky assets that the client would be emotionally comfortable with in good times and bad," he said.

The point of risk-tolerance assessment is to make sure that clients are emotionally comfortable with investments in good times and bad so that they avoid the pattern of buying high and selling low and can stick with their financial plans. Tyler Nunnally U.S. strategist for FinaMetrica

Any reliable risk-tolerance questionnaire, added Nunnally, should produce roughly the same results for an investor when taken more than once over a period of time. "The point of risk-tolerance assessment," he said, "is to make sure that clients are emotionally comfortable with investments in good times and bad so that they avoid the pattern of buying high and selling low and can stick with their financial plans." But some advisors balk at the idea of relying on risk-tolerance questionnaires to inform asset-allocation decisions. Rob Brown, chief investment officer of United Capital, says risk-tolerance tests are widely used within the financial services industry, but they generally leave a lot to be desired.

Brown said such tests basically function as a paper trail; in other words, many advisors and brokers administer them so they can demonstrate to regulators that they are making suitable recommendations for individual clients. Many academics and psychologists, he said, consider risk-assessment testing "a bunch of nonsense." "When you work with human beings, you understand that risk is a complex, nuanced matter," said Brown, a chartered financial analyst. "It is a dynamic, living phenomenon." He added, "To characterize it as a one-dimensional, static number ends up doing more harm than good."

According to Brown, the biggest problem with most risk-tolerance tests is that their results are highly correlated to past experiences. Investors who rely on test results to make asset-allocation decisions may be too bullish or bearish for their own good, he said. For instance, investors who take such tests in the aftermath of a big market correction are likely to come to the conclusion that they have little risk tolerance, said Brown. That may cause them to build portfolios that are heavily skewed toward low-return fixed-income products, undermining their chances of earning enough to meet their long-term financial needs, he said. With many risk-assessment tests, "you are looking backward for a forward-looking purpose," Brown said.

"It's like driving down an L.A. freeway always looking in the rear-view mirror. There is only one outcome, and it's not a good one," he said. The better course, said Brown, is to work with an advisor to develop an investment strategy that reflects long-term goals, such as the kind of lifestyle you desire in retirement or plans for charitable giving. By doing so, investors may be more willing to take advantage of market downturns to buy stocks when the herd is selling, if they see that as an opportunity to get closer to their financial goals, said Brown.

"You are doing the exact opposite of what a tolerance questionnaire would have you do," and that might prove to be a good move, he added. According to Pete Dixon, a partner and advisor at Waypoint Wealth Management, risk-tolerance tests can be a useful tool for investors who want to begin to explore the concept of risk. Waypoint, a fee-only firm, doesn't use such tests with its clients. Instead, the firm focuses on clients' willingness, ability and need to take risk to achieve financial goals, said Dixon, a certified financial planner. If, for instance, a client is willing to endure a 50 percent drop in portfolio value in the short term, he or she may be comfortable with an all-stock portfolio, said Dixon.
It's deja vu, sort of.With Microsoft reportedly in the mix for a potential acquisition of Yahoo , it's worth looking back on similar discussions that were taking place eight years ago at this time.On Feb. 1, 2008, in what would still be by far the software maker's largest ever acquisition, Microsoft offered close to $45 billion for Yahoo. Both companies were getting trounced by Google in search and online ads. Combining the two, so Microsoft thought, would create a credible challenger.

Despite representing a 62 percent premium over its market value at the time, Yahoo rejected the offer. Co-founder and then CEO Jerry Yang said the bid "substantially undervalues Yahoo."

Three months, another $5 billion and another rejection later, Microsoft withdrew its bid, deciding against taking a hostile offer to Yahoo's shareholders.



Today, Yahoo is valued at $33.4 billion, or roughly $16 billion less than what Microsoft was willing to pay in 2008. The , by contrast, has gained 45 percent since Microsoft pulled its bid on May 3 of that year.



"They should've taken the offer  the board just didn't do what they should've done," said Martin Pyykkonen, an analyst at Rosenblatt Securities who has a "sell" rating on the stock. Pyykkonen was covering Yahoo at the time and recalls the deal as being "such a no-brainer."
Apple 's new iPhone SE launches on Thursday and preliminary numbers at Chinese retailers suggest decent demand  but the black market tells a more mixed story.

The U.S. tech giant started taking pre-orders for the smartphone on March 24 and has not released official figures. However, as of Monday in Beijing, total pre-orders on three retailing sites exceeded 3.4 million.



Despite the brisk pre-orders, though, Chinese vendors and scalpers are uncertain if the iPhone SE will be a sure bet like previous models.

"The new iPhone SE has no revolutionary update," one distributor in Henan Province told CNBC. "I don't think the demand will be as strong as the iPhone 6 and 6S." He is offering the iPhone SE at a $20 discount to the official price in China.

In the past, scalpers have been able to charge a premium of roughly $300 over the official price for a newly released iPhone, but one Hong Kong smuggler who refused to be named said he expected to charge just $30 above the listed price for the iPhone SE.

Vendors on Alibaba 's Taobao site are offering the new phone at a discount of as much as $100, claiming the phones are being purchased from the U.S. where the SE sells for $399.

Apple could not be immediately reached to comment on the report.
A price surge could be coming to a freezer near you.

Following a poor harvest in Madagascar last year, the cost of vanilla beans has surged, threatening many ice cream manufacturers, according to The Guardian.

"The market price of vanilla has risen over the past 12 months, and sharply over the last 12 weeks," Silver Spoon, the distributor of the American Nielsen-Massey vanilla brand in the United Kingdom, told the publication. "This has been driven largely by a poor quality harvest in Madagascar. Our hope is that vanilla prices will return to a more stable level in the future."
PHOTO CREDIT: www.saranac.com

UTICA, N.Y.  F.X. Matt Brewing Co. will mark the formal grand opening of its Saranac 1888 Tavern & Tasting Room as a full-scale bar on Thursday, March 31.

It will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. with the Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce.

While previously functioning as a tasting room available only to patrons at the end of their brewery tours, the Craft New York Act of 2014 now allows the brewery to operate as a public bar as well, according to a news release from the chamber of commerce.

The Saranac 1888 Tavern & Tasting Room will now be open to the public on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. until Memorial Day.

After Memorial Day, it will be open Monday through Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. in addition to Thursday through Saturday until 8 p.m. That schedule may change because of spring/summer concert dates, the release stated.

Our Brewery has been making beer in our area for four generations, Nick O. Matt, CEO of F.X. Matt Brewing, said in the release. Now, due to Governor Andrew Cuomos groundbreaking legislation designed specifically to enhance business in New York State, we can offer beer lovers more opportunities to drink our beer right here at our brewery.

Contact The Business Journal News Network at news@cnybj.com
The latest annual circulating 50-tenge coin from Kazakhstan to celebrate its achievements in space exploration honors the Venera spacecraft.

The former Soviet nation of Kazakhstan continues its annual series of circulating 50-tenge coins highlighting its role in the Russian exploration program.

The 2015 coin, which was released Dec. 25, commemorates the June 14, 1975, Venera 10 mission to Venus.

The 2014 version, released Aug. 7, 2015, features the Buran space shuttle.

Connect with Coin World:

Coin dealer Joel Anderson has recently obtained examples of both coins.

The reverse of the 2015 coin depicts the Venera spacecraft, which consisted of an orbiter and a probe that landed on the surface of Venus, sending back pictures and data.

Buran completed one unmanned orbital flight in 1988, launching from and landing at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan (which has been home to all of Russias space travel over the decades).

The Buran program was discontinued after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.

The spacecraft was destroyed when the hanger in which it was stored at the Baikonur Cosmodrome collapsed in 2002 due to improper maintenance.

The obverse of both coins features the star man, symbolizing the unity of human beings with the world and the connection between the past and present.

The Uncirculated copper-nickel coins have a 31-millimeter diameter and a mintage of 100,000 pieces each.

Anderson offers either coin for $4 U.S., plus $4 U.S. per order for shipping and handling.

To learn more, visit Andersons website.
Three takeways from Missouri's game against Vanderbilt

Missouri football took on Vanderbilt for its homecoming game on Saturday. Here's what to know from the game.
Best of Business 2022: Learn Who Won Our 15th Annual Reader Poll

Local professionals chose their favorite business and professional services, products, healthcare, dining and more. Find out who their top picks are.
March 28, 2016 - A banner outside St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral may dissuade gun carriers from entering the property, but most houses of worship in Memphis don't have the necessary signs to keep firearms off the premises. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

David Waters Columnist SHARE March 28, 2016 - Anderson Clark passes by a banner outside St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral that may dissuade gun carriers from entering the property, but most houses of worship in Memphis don't have the necessary signs to keep firearms off the premises. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal) March 28, 2016 - Anderson Clark passes by a banner outside St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral that may dissuade gun carriers from entering the property, but most houses of worship in Memphis don't have the necessary signs to keep firearms off the premises. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

You can't carry a lighted cigarette into most churches in Tennessee, but you can legally carry a loaded weapon.

That's the lesson from Sunday's harrowing Easter service at Bellevue Baptist Church.

Bellevue has signs at all major entrances that prohibit smoking, but none that ban guns. Not that any sign would have stopped Marcus Donald from walking into Bellevue with a loaded handgun in his pocket and an assault rifle in his backpack.

He wasn't dissuaded by the three 150-foot crosses outside the megachurch representing the crucified and resurrected savior who told his disciples to put away their weapons.

Why would he pause for a red circle containing the black symbol of a gun with a red slash through it?

Thankfully, Cordova didn't join Charleston, Newtown, Jonesboro and other places on the mournful, metastazing list of mass shootings.

As Donald was making his way to the sanctuary where Pastor Steve Gaines and 3,500 others were about to celebrate the Risen Christ, a church hostess noticed a pistol sticking out of the young man's pocket.

She told a minister who notified Bellevue's director of security, Andy Willis, a Memphis police officer.

"(The suspect) told Andy he had a permit to carry," Gaines told church members in an email Monday.

Turns out, he did. That should have ended the discussion. Donald was exercising his constitutional rights, as interpreted by the Tennessee legislature.

Fortunately, Willis didn't end the discussion. When he discovered that Donald also had a rifle in his backpack, he took the weapons and called police.

Donald, 31, was arrested for "emergency commitment" and admitted for psychiatric evaluation. He was still in custody Monday, but it seems he didn't break any man-made laws and won't be charged.

Donald told police that "people in society are a threat to him and that he must be vigilant."

He's not the only one. Like God, guns are everywhere, even in church -- whether you know it or not.

"My guess would be that most people would assume that churches are automatically 'gun-free.' They are not," said Beth Joslin Roth, policy director of the Safe Tennessee Project in Nashville.

"I'd also guess that the last thing many churches would like to do is have a huge debate over whether or not to allow people to carry in their place of worship."

She might be right, but if the church won't stand against the culture's faith in guns, what hope do people like Marcus Donald have?

Monday, I contacted clergy leaders of three dozen local congregations representing four major faiths and two dozen denominations in all parts of town.

Only two  St. Mary's Episcopal Cathedral and Neshoba Unitarian Universalist  have posted signs banning weapons.

Some said they had internal policies that limit or prohibit weapons. Others said their congregations had "understandings" that guns would not be brought into the church, or they just "assumed" no one would.

Policies spoken or unspoken, signs posted or implied won't stop armed intruders intent on doing harm. But, if any house of worship wants to prohibit valid permit holders from carrying guns on the property, it has to do so expressly.

In effect, the state allows it unless the church forbids it with a clear and "plainly visible" sign posted at all public entrances.

Few churches seem ready, willing or able to take a clear and visible stand against guns.

"Under Tennessee's handgun permit statutes, a person is legally authorized to carry a handgun openly or concealed if they have a permit," said John Harris, executive director of the Tennessee Firearms Association.

In his email Monday, Gaines expressed his thanks for the way the hostess and the security officers responded to the potential threat.

"Most of all we are thankful for God's protection," Gaines said. "Our primary trust is in Him, and while we do all we can to protect our members and guests each time they enter the building, ultimately our security is in the Lord."

Amen. Any church has the state's permission to demonstrate that belief.
Secret Service agent Gerard Butler and President Aaron Eckhart are on the run from terrorists in 'Lond Has Fallen.'

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By John Beifuss of The Commercial Appeal

"London Has Fallen" (R, 99 min.)  Lethal Secret Service agent Gerard Butler returns to protect President Aaron Eckhart and stab, shoot and crack much terrorist neck in this well-crafted if paranoiac sequel to 2013's "Olympus Has Fallen." Less jingoistic but no less morally specious than its predecessor (the film dismisses the vengeance-inciting incident of its opening sequence -- the U.S. drone-killing of innocent Pakistanis -- as excusable collateral damage in the War on Terror), the movie depicts a massively destructive, multiple-assassination assault on London, where the world's leaders have gathered for the funeral of England's (murdered) prime minister; the violent spectable seems particularly nasty in the wake of recent real-life European attacks. The director is Tehran-born Babak Najafi; the supporting cast includes Morgan Freeman, Jackie Earle Haley and Melissa Leo, confined to a war room and earning the easiest paychecks of their careers.
Bellevue Baptist Church (Karen Pulfer Focht/The Commercial Appeal)

By Jody Callahan of The Commercial Appeal

The man who took a handgun and rifle to Bellevue Baptist Church Sunday had a valid carry permit and appears not to have broken any state gun laws, officials said Monday.

Memphis police confirmed that Marcus Donald, 31, hasn't been charged with any weapons violations in the incident that happened at the megachurch at 2000 Appling Road a little after 11 a.m. Sunday, during the last of three Easter services.

Donald was arrested for "emergency commitment" and was still in custody Monday, Memphis police said. He was carrying a loaded .40-caliber Beretta in his pants pocket and a .300 Blackout rifle in a backpack.

Asked whether Donald broke any state gun laws, Shelby County Dist. Atty. Gen. Amy Weirich said: "Based on what we've been told, no. On church property unless it has been posted no guns or unless there's a school on the property, it's not a violation of state law."

Bellevue officials also released a more detailed account of what happened in a letter to church members. According to the letter, a "hostess" at the church saw Donald enter the building, and noticed a pistol sticking out of his pocket.

She alerted a nearby church official, who contacted security. Bellevue security director Andy Willis approached Donald, who told him he had a carry permit.

Willis then told Donald that for him to attend the service, he had to take his guns back out to his car. Willis took the pistol and unloaded it, and then tried to put it in the backpack, the letter said. That's when he noticed the rifle and called for assistance.

At that point, the letter said, Donald started running toward the sanctuary. Willis and another security officer then stopped and handcuffed him until police arrived. After his arrest, Donald allegedly told police that "people in society are a threat to him and that he must be vigilant."

"We are thankful to our volunteer hostess for being observant and responding to what she saw. We are also thankful for our security team who responded and eliminated the potential threat," the letter said.

For Donald's weapons to be legal, three criteria had to be met:

* Donald must have a valid carry permit. Memphis police spokesman Louis Brownlee confirmed Monday that Donald had such a permit.

Although the permit allows its holder to carry loaded handguns, state law indicates that any long guns being carried must not have a round in the chamber. Police confirmed that Donald's rifle did not have a round in the chamber.

* Bellevue must not prohibit weapons, and, if they do, signage must be posted at entrances stating such prohibitions, Tennessee Firearms Association head John Harris said.

Bellevue spokesman Jim Barnwell said Sunday that he was unaware of any weapons policies at the church.

* No licensed secondary school was in session at the time.

Now that Donald has been committed, it's possible his carry permit will be revoked, said Megan Buell, spokesman for the Tennessee Department of Safety.

Once someone has been committed, law enforcement is required to notify the state; the carry permit is then suspended. A person whose permit is suspended can later appear before a judge to ask that it be reinstated, Buell said.

Although Buell confirmed that her department is working with Memphis police on this issue, she said state law prevents her from saying whether Donald's permit has been suspended.
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By Jennifer Pignolet of The Commercial Appeal

An AmeriCorps program that would mobilize recent college graduates to provide teacher assistance and wrap-around services to classrooms could find its way to Memphis as early as next year.

The Shelby County School board will vote Tuesday night whether to contract with City Year for a pilot program that would start with eight corps members and one staff member at one school for at least four years, at a cost to the school district of $100,000 a year.

But because of SCS's wish to start off small, the program will also need significant buy-in from the Achievement School District, City Year's chief growth and external affairs officer Christine Morin said.

The program, currently operating in 292 schools in 27 cities, must be able to send 50 corps members into schools to launch a program in a new city. While an affirmative vote from SCS would be an important first step, it will take full commitment from the different charter and state-run operators under the ASD.

An ASD spokesperson said interest in the program is strong, but no final decisions have been made.

City Year employs mostly recent college graduates  the average age is 22  to be immersed in a school for the year, assisting teachers in English and math classrooms, socializing with students during lunch and holding after-school tutoring and homework help sessions.

"Our corps members really fill a unique role in school because they're near peers, they're able to connect with students to improve their attendance, improve their behavior," Morin said.

A study commissioned by City Year last year showed that schools that partnered with the program gained the equivalent of approximately one additional month of English and math learning compared to schools without the program.

School board members discussed the proposal in a work session last week, and a few expressed concern or raised questions about which schools would be chosen, the burden it would place on teachers and the overall cost.

"A lot of our partners don't like to partner with the schools that really need the most help," board member Stephanie Love said.

SCS chief of academics Heidi Ramirez said SCS would decide which school would house the pilot version of the program, and said it wouldn't be forced onto a school. Criteria would include low attendance and high rates of behavioral issues, she said.

"The goal actually here is to select a high-needs school, probably among our priority schools," Ramirez said.

Board chairwoman Teresa Jones also expressed concern about the cost and suggested there were similar programs that could provide the same services for free, although she did not name any examples.

Morin said the program is kept afloat by state and federal dollars as well as significant local philanthropic donations. A grant from Memphis' Teacher Town paid for City Year to explore whether Memphis could be added to the program.

"We've found that it's important for all sectors to contribute," Morin said. She also noted the teachers and principals are not responsible for supervising the corps members, who receive a month of training ahead of their year-long stint in the schools along with professional development throughout the year. Half the corps members are chosen from the communities they serve, and 60 percent are people of color, she said.

"We're able to provide that direct student support so the teachers can differentiate instruction and meet the needs of the whole class," Morin said.

Board member Mike Kernell noted that at a rate of $12,500 per corps member, the program allows SCS to add more bodies to classrooms than would be possible if the district were to hire teaching assistants at closer to $20,000 a person.

Kevin Woods, one of a group of board members who traveled to Tulsa, Oklahoma to see City Year in action, encouraged his fellow board members to consider the return on investment more than the up-front cost.

Woods noted a school with better attendance and fewer behavioral issues translates to better test scores, which could keep a school off the state's list for takeovers due to poor performance.
Attorney Regina Lambert, and couple Sophy Jesty and Valeria Tanco, from left (Adam Lau/Knoxville News Sentinel)

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A federal judge in Nashville on Friday awarded more than $2 million in attorneys' fees and court costs to the winning plaintiffs in Tennessee's same-sex marriage court case.

Judge Aleta Trauger awarded $2.03 million to the plaintiffs, which includes Knoxville veterinarians Valeria Tanco and Sophy Jesty. The award is 15 percent less than the $2.33 million they requested.

The fees covered nearly 6,000 hours of work by the plaintiffs' legal teams. It included the primary counsel for all three couples in Nashville, personal attorney for each of the three couples named in the suit, the National Center for Lesbian Rights in San Francisco, and Ropes & Gray, the counsel of record for the plaintiffs when the case went to the Supreme Court.

The U.S. Supreme Court in June ruled 5-4 in favor of the plaintiffs in Tennessee, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky, overturning bans on same-sex marriage in a landmark decision.

Regina Lambert, a Knoxville-based attorney who represented University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine faculty members Tanco and Jesty, worked 498.2 hours on the case, according to court documents. She requested $149,460 based on her billing rates.

More details as they develop online and in Tuesday's News Sentinel.
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R. Craig Jordan

Nesbit

Whether it is Donald Trumps advocating torture of suspected terrorists or Ted Cruzs proposing ghettoizing predominantly Muslim communities, the message is clear.

The way to combat our fears of terrorism and salve our aching economic and social losses is to demonize a religious group and encourage xenophobia.

Within the cacophony of presidential campaigns, we overlook some stark facts.

ISIS has killed far more Muslims than Christians, Europeans, or North Americans combined.

As tragic and reprehensible as the terrorist attacks in Brussels and Paris are, we in the U.S. identify far more closely with those tragedies than the attacks in Ankara, Beirut, or Nigeria.

In our fear of terrorist infiltration of Syrian and other refugees, we overlook the violence that leads those persons to a desperate search for safety.
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By Robert Borosage

With the Republican presidential race careening toward a fractious convention in Cleveland and Donald Trump warning of riots, the coming Democratic convention has garnered little comment.

But don't expect Philadelphia to be all brotherly love. Reconciling Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, and their respective camps, will take some work.

Yes, modern party conventions have been turned into slickly packaged made-for-TV unity fests: Carefully vetted speakers deliver carefully crafted messages, while any disagreements are settled off-camera. And yes, Barack Obama and Clinton thoroughly made amends after a bitter primary season eight years ago. But there's far more ideological conflict between this year's candidates than between Clinton and Obama in 2008.

The most likely scenario at this point is that Clinton will be the nominee but Sanders will arrive in Philadelphia with a formidable number of delegates. In that case, the closest parallel is when Michael Dukakis overcame Jesse Jackson's insurgent movement in 1988. That year didn't end well for the Democrats, but it offers some useful lessons about achieving party unity, allowing ideological differences and generating passion.

Like Sanders, Jackson stunned the party establishment with a strong showing in the primary race. He won 13 primaries and caucuses and 7 million votes, amassing 1,200 delegates. Also like Sanders, he electrified young Americans. He helped register legions of new voters and outperformed Dukakis with voters under 30.

Going into the convention, Jackson and his followers demanded recognition for what they had built. They wanted Dukakis to acknowledge that they were integral to the Democratic coalition. They sought debate over the direction of the party and the country. And they thought Jackson had earned serious consideration for the vice presidency. Jackson delayed his endorsement, waiting for respect to be paid.

Dukakis, meanwhile, was eager to focus on the general election. He was tired of dealing with Jackson and intent on proving that he would stand up to him. He snubbed Jackson in his running-mate selection, and, by blunder or calculation, failed to tell Jackson before news leaked that he'd tapped Sen. Lloyd Bentsen.

When Jackson learned of the pick from a reporter, he didn't hesitate to broadcast his grievances, capitalizing on the six busloads of reporters that accompanied his caravan from Chicago to the convention in Atlanta. He suggested that he might contest Bentsen's nomination at the convention. When he arrived, he was greeted by thousands of activists ready to march at a nod of his head.

Only as the convention got underway did Dukakis finally meet with Jackson. At a negotiated "unity" news conference, Dukakis promised that Jackson would be involved in the campaign "actively and fully in a way that will bring us together and that will build the strongest grass-roots organization."

Jackson met with his delegates that morning and convinced them to keep their powder dry. "We came looking for noble works, not fireworks," he told them. "Not show business, but serious business."

As William Greider wrote at the time for Rolling Stone: "Jackson's speech was as deft as anything I've ever seen a politician achieve with his listeners  building their commitment to future struggles and simultaneously cooling them out about the one they had just lost." A less-skilled orator might not have been able to pull it off. And a less-committed Democrat might not have wanted to.

Sanders, too, will finish the primary contest with an army of impassioned supporters eager for recognition of their revolution  some even urging a third-party run. Clinton's campaign operatives will want Sanders to step back, salute and turn his fire on the Republican nominee. But Sanders will be in a position to determine what happens in Philadelphia and will have major influence on whether his supporters turn out for the nominee. Respect must be paid.

In contrast to Jackson in '88, Sanders has no interest in the vice presidency. His focus is on the direction of the party. "When people respond by the millions to your message, then that message is now mainstream," Sanders recently told The New Yorker. "That changes political reality. Smart politicians like Hillary Clinton and anybody else have got to move where the action is, and the action is on those issues that I've been raising."

Like Sanders, Jackson built his campaign around a fundamental challenge to the party's timid agenda, calling for raising taxes on the rich and corporations, reducing military spending, increasing social spending, and barring the first use of nuclear weapons. When Jackson continued to press this agenda beyond the primaries and ahead of the convention, some Democrats accused him of being divisive. Jackson countered: "We grow through debate and deliberation. We can have unity without uniformity."

The Dukakis camp incorporated some of Jackson's agenda into the party platform, though it was often masked in vague language. At the convention, three additional measures went to the floor for debate, including the first call for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis. And in his prime-time speech, Jackson challenged the party's direction, even as he praised Dukakis. Disagreements were aired, but the convention ended with Jackson's family joining those of Dukakis and Bentsen on the stage in unity.

In Philadelphia, Sanders will demand a debate over the platform. He'll push for rule changes, particularly curbing the role of unelected superdelegates. He will seek floor votes on key issues in dispute. His ideas, in fact, will have the support of most of the delegates. And he'll get a prime-time address to make his case.

The Clinton campaign would be well advised to embrace some of Sanders's ideas and graciously endure public debate on others. Endorsing tuition-free public college would generate excitement. Banning super PACs in Democratic primaries would acknowledge Sanders's challenge to big money. Floor debates on issues such as breaking up big banks, national health care, a $15 minimum wage and the right to a union may be inevitable.

As 1988 demonstrated, unity doesn't require the suppression of conflicting ideas. In fact, the nominee may be better served by being big enough to allow an airing of the party's differences. Sanders has won a staggering percentage of young voters, the future of the party. They are more likely to stay engaged if they see their champion and their causes given a hearing and making headway at the convention.

One final lesson from 1988: While unity at the convention provides peace, it doesn't promise passion.

Dukakis left Atlanta with a double-digit lead in the polls over George H.W. Bush. He was hailed for unifying the party and for "handling" Jackson. Jackson stumped across the country for the ticket, registering black voters and rousing audiences wherever he went. But Dukakis continued to frame the general election as a question of  and this may sound familiar  competence, not direction.

As Rolling Stone's Greider warned at the time: "Running for president on a promise to be competent and honest is thin gruel."

Indeed, Dukakis sank after the convention, undermined by his own missteps and a viciously negative Bush campaign, featuring the infamous race-based Willie Horton ads. In November, he lost in a low-turnout election, with black participation falling even more than that of the general population.

Sanders has vowed to endorse Clinton if she gets the nomination. But he can't transfer the passion he has generated to her. She'll have to figure out how to inspire those voters or depend on the Republican nominee to terrify them into the voting booths.

Robert Borosage is president of the Institute for America's Future and was an adviser to Jesse Jackson's 1988 campaign. He wrote this for The Washington Post.
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) 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)

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The U.S. government announced today that investigators found a way to hack into the iPhone used by the San Bernardino terrorist late last year.

According to most reports, a third party security expert stepped forward and helped the FBI read the encrypted data required for their investigation.

This was a landmark case that involved, for the first time ever, the most powerful company in tech (or at least the most popular and the most well-known) against the most powerful nation in the world. It was a case that would have likely ended up in the Supreme Court, but will certainly set the stage for more discussions.

The hack likely involved mirroring the data on the iPhone so it could be accessed without having to guess the password or use some other method to break into the phone. This is a delicate, expensive, and risky proposition, but in the right hands, it can work as a method for accessing the encrypted data. One report said the Israeli company Cellebrite might have helped the FBI hack into the phone.

Some have argued this was a win for Apple. The company never had to create a backdoor that allowed investigators to break into the phone. The company never had to create a new version of iOS that would have fallen into the wrong hands. More importantly, Apple didnt have to compromise their stand on encryption or make users question whether their data is safe. It's a win for Apple customers.

At the same time, even though the case is now resolved, the debate is only getting underway. There are lingering questions about the role of tech companies in an investigation; there are unanswered questions about why the FBI requested the help of Apple in such a public way and even held hearings on the topic; and, it makes you wonder if the methods to hack into the iPhone could be used in other cases.

Whats really at stake here?

The U.S. government insists the issue is about safety, and it is: There are more and more attacks happening all over the world. Apple and the other tech giants of Silicon Valley have insisted the issue is about personal; security. They dont want to be perceived as complicit in unlocking a smartphone, creating a backdoor, or providing any way for a third-party to access your data without permission or knowledge.

As with any fervent debate between two powerful entities, there are points to be made on both sides and no easy answers. At a tech conference recently, even President Obama said there were no absolutes. There is a greater need for safety and a way to fight terror groups with technology. There is also a great need to protect digital assets, especially as we use our phones as a wallet, a camera, a location device, a communicator with our kids and for work.

I dont see this debate going away anytime soon. If anything, it will lead to another case with even more dire consequences for protecting U.S. citizens...and maintaining their privacy.
23 May 2022

- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Andrew Kennedy is the Group Agent & Campaign Director in West Kent. He blogs at www.votingandboating.blogspot.com.

Tucked away in Harold Macmillans diaries in the late 1950s is an entry about a letter he had received from his constituency agent. Apparently party membership in the Bromley Division has just topped 22,000. This is somewhat satisfactory.

The fact that 80 per cent of Conservative voters in Bromley were also paid-up Party members is the stuff of our modern dreams, even if the then MP should consider it just somewhat satisfactory. I expect that the combined membership of Kent, Sussex and Surrey does not match this figure today. It is a sad reflection of how far we have fallen that nationwide there are now just two Associations with over 1,000 members each, and only 50 with over 500.

There is much lazy thinking about membership. The most-often quoted is that the decline is a recent phenomenon which is mainly due to the present leaderships disrespect for members. The reality is somewhat different. The graph above (produced by the House of Commons Library) shows membership in steep and steady decline since the 1950s.

I recently had the privilege of meeting Tim Bale, Professor of Politics at Queen Mary University, and one of the UKs most respected authorities of political membership and engagement. We discussed the Partys membership in the following broad tranches;

Stage One saw the post-war peak of almost three million. This was brought about by (a) the re-establishment of a nationwide Conservative organisation which had atrophied during the war, (b) the Lord Woolton reforms, and (c) an angry reaction from a still conservative country to the defeat of Churchill by a socialist government.

Stage Two was the steady decline over the following 30 years, in particular the late 1960s under Ted Heaths leadership.

Stage Three showed a slight recovery in the early Thatcher years.

Stage Four, the fastest and sharpest decline of all, took place during the early 1990s, and was almost certainly attributable to grassroots anger over the defenestration of Margaret Thatcher and the Partys subsequent decline following Black Wednesday and Maastricht.

Given this period of decline, membership figures under David Camerons leadership, both in terms of actual members and the percentage decline, have been remarkably resilient.

Last year, I discussed this issue with the West Kent Group Chairman, who works in the City. Without exception, every one of his office colleagues, a couple of dozen 30-50 year olds, voted Conservative last May. All wish to see our Party succeed and all agreed that political parties should be self-financing. Yet his own political activism was unanimously viewed as worthy, but strange. Despite his best efforts, the prevailing view of his colleagues was: Why on earth would you want to join a political party? These wealthy, Conservative-voting, free-market, wealth-creators feel that they can contribute to a Conservative Government by placing their cross in the right box or by sending a cheque. The concept of joining the Party was anathema.

In 2014, Sir John Stanley announced his retirement as MP for Tonbridge & Malling, a seat he had represented since its creation in 1974. The Association Officers thought this was an ideal time to invest substantially in a recruitment campaign. Twenty thousand Conservative pledges duly received an invitation to join, with the added bonus of being able to help choose the constituencys next Parliamentary candidate, something which had not happened for four decades.

The Tonbridge and Malling Chairman thought it would result in one thousand new members. I was less optimistic and would have been happy with a response rate of one per cent (or 200 members). The reality was fewer than 50. If the opportunity to join a well-run, vibrant and successful Conservative Association at the time of a Parliamentary selection achieved such a poor response, then what can we possibly do to reverse the trend?

It was as a consequence of this experience that Tonbridge & Malling decided to run an Open Primary. This attracted around 700 attendees of whom over 50 per cent were non-members. After the event, I cross-referenced the attendees with our database and discovered that 90 per cent had received an invitation to enrol, but had not responded.

This large group of people were happy to register to attend, to provide their email address, to give up four hours of their Saturday, and even to contribute generously to the financial appeal. Yet none wanted to join the Party. Until we identify why, I suspect we will never address our dilemma over membership.

Since 2014 our focus in West Kent has moved away from membership recruitment and instead we have concentrated on recruiting donors and activists, achieving in many cases quite remarkable results. Our Registered Supporter scheme has enrolled 2,000 people, around 20 per cent of whom are now in some way active locally; another example of how people are willing to commit, but not to join. Our Chairman, William Rutherford, wrote about this on Conservative Home last year.

Most West Kent Associations now have as many donors as members. Many of these people contribute significantly more money via appeals, raffles and sponsorship than our members do through their subscriptions. And most recently a Subscribers Club, fronted by Ann Widdecombe, enrolled 800 supporters, who between them contribute 24,000 per year  more money than every new member we have recruited in the last five years combined. Over 70 per cent of these are non-members.

I would be happy to be proved wrong, but I suspect the days of mass membership are behind us. But that does not mean that mass participation is also over. One discussion we must have is what we actually wish to achieve. Do we want participation to help define policy? Or to raise funds? Or to recruit an army of activists? Perhaps a mix of all three. Whatever the reason, there may be simpler ways to achieve our goals.

Our members are valuable, dedicated and committed people, and without their generosity and support our organisation simply wouldnt run as efficiently as it does. But they are one stream of support in what is an increasingly complex pattern of involvement. As we build the Party of the future, we need to either identify and remove the barriers that clearly stop people joining, or accept that these barriers exist, and engage people on their terms, rather than insisting that they become active on ours.
One of this Governments most consistent themes  and George Osbornes driving mission  has been the decentralisation of power from Whitehall. Are his latest school reforms consistent with this programme?

There are two conflicting points of view. The first sees plans for universal academisation as a devolution of power to individual schools and academy chains. This was the argument put forward by Nick Gibb, the schools minister, on Newsnight.

Academy powers include control over the curriculum and staff pay.

Opposed to this are local government figures who see it as a centralising measure, with local authorities replaced by unelected and remote civil servants in London.

Not only do critics deny that this represents any advance in localism, there is also fierce debate about the function of academies and the intentions behind the new policy.

Tory councillors, for example, worry about the fate of small rural schools if an academy chain deems them unviable, and worry about the loss of democratic oversight.

Some critics also wonder what this latest step will achieve, claiming that it wont improve education outcomes. They claim that schools face challenges of capacity, which more accountability will not solve.

Gibb argues that universalisation is essential if the academy model is to be most effective. It works best when good schools can transmit best practise to struggling schools  which requires good schools to be part of the system.

This is the logic for forcing successful local authority schools to convert, which was the main point of contention in the Newsnight interview.

Other advocates also claim that, far from being a distraction, this represents a necessary step to tackle the very capacity issues critics are talking about, as well as streamlining school funding and oversight for failing schools.

They also make two important points about the idea of democratic accountability in local authority schools.

First, theres not much evidence of councils being held politically accountable for poorly performing schools. The ups and downs of local school performance seldom presage any change in the party balance at the next local elections. So such accountability is more theoretical than actual.

Second, they argue that there is a conflict of interest if councils are supposed both to champion the interests of the users of services and provide the services  especially if the council fears that it will be punished at the ballot box for providing poor services.

If local authorities are truly meant to hold local schools to account on behalf of parents and taxpayers, it makes sense to remove this strong disincentive.

Battles over education are not new to this Government. Much of this latest wave of opposition comes from the usual anti-reform interests of the education sector, most visibly the National Union of Teachers. Meanwhile local authorities have historically opposed any and every reform which might diminish their power.

But with tensions in the Party running high due to the European referendum, the very last thing that Number 10 needs right now is another blue-on-blue confrontation.

Nicky Morgan and her ministers should do all they can to address the concerns of good-faith Tory critics. This will improve the policy, help Party unity, and allow them to concentrate on the hard-bitten opponents of progress trying to exploit this backlash.
Yesterday Jeremy Hunt, the Health Secretary, wrote in The Observer, about the implications for the NHS should the UK decide to leave the European Union. He said:

Investing in the NHS will always be a priority for this government, but the simple fact is this: an economic shock would put pressure on our finances. According to the OECD, Greece, Portugal, Spain and Italy all cut health spending per head following the economic crisis.

The mention of those countries rather makes the point that being shackled to the European Union is no guarantee of a flourishing economy and the generous spending on health which accompanies it. Nor does being outside the EU mean that health spending would be under greater constraint. Switzerland has four time the per capita health spending as Greece, Norway spends almost five times as much as Portugal, Australia twice as much as Italy, New Zealand nearly twice as much as Spain. And so on.

Hunt partly makes the obvious point that the more money you have, the more you can spend  on stuff, including health. Ho hum. Where he is wrong is in suggesting this cause is advanced by remaining in the EU.

If we decided to leave and there was a debate about what to spend our 13 billion membership sub on, there is no doubt that Hunt would be pushing everyone else out of the way in the stampede to The Treasury.

David Laws, the former Lib Dem MP who was very briefly Chief Secretary to the Treasury, says in his book Coalition:

The awkward squad were Home Secretary Theresa May, Business Secretary Vince Cable and Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Jeremy Hunt had clearly already received the full Department for Culture, Media and Sport indoctrination in how to deal with the threat of the Treasury axe. Jeremy then said that if he could not get a good settlement from me, he would be willing to appeal to the Chancellor. I wasnt impressed with this attempt to bully me, and was confident that George Osborne would feel obliged to support me.I decided to agree a final figure that was lower than the minimum amount I wanted, but on the strict condition that Jeremy Hunt would have to deliver the full cuts in the next, far more serious, spending round that was to come.

Needless to say, when the next round came along Hunt was still fighting like a tiger for maximum taxpayer spending on arts subsidies. Surely he would fight just as hard for the NHS?

But let us assume that instead, the broader view was taken that the long term priority for health and other public services was a strong economy. Would Hunt not agree that 13bn of tax cuts could have a rather beneficial impact in economic growth  say, for example, by cutting the rate of Corporation Tax to the level in Ireland?

Then Hunt has another argument concerning freedom of movement. He says:

Another issue is the damage caused by losing some of the 100,000 skilled EU workers who work in our health and social care system. Uncertainties around visas and residency permits could cause some to return home, with an unpredictable impact on hard-pressed frontline services.

So the contention is that even if the British Government said these workers could stay, they might decide to leave due to the uncertainty of being obliged to do so at some stage in the distant future. But having control of our immigration system would make it easier to find the skilled workers we need  for the NHS and elsewhere. This is because there would no longer be the pressure caused by an open door to all 500 million EU citizens  whether skilled or unskilled.

Where has the Labour Party been in all this? They have been a bit slow to rally to Hunts side.

Then there is the problematic issue of the EU-US Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership  popularly known as TTIP. Many Labour MPs, trade union officials, and left wing activists have been warning that this agreement would mean the privatisation of the NHS. This is a question of definition. For many Conservatives it is a practical matter of how the best standards can be provided to patients, free at the point of use, for the resources available. If this means a bigger role for the private sector  including US corporations  having the chance to tender for services then thats fine. Many on the Left take a less sanguine view. They certainly have a point in saying that the decision about the extent of private involvement in the NHS should be a democratic matter to be resolved in Parliament  not a decision imposed by the EU.

Hunts intervention has the feel of pre-emptive strike by the Remain campaign. They know the Vote Leave campaign will be telling us rather a lot about how many doctors and nurses and new hospitals could be paid for with the funds currently being handed over to the EU. But I wonder if Hunt really has his heart in it. I suspect his enthusiasm for our EU membership is broadly equivalent to that held for it by his namesake, the Leader of Her Majestys Opposition.

One of the sorrier spectacles we have to look forward to over the next three months is of Ministers pushed in front of the camera to justify our continued subservience to our EU masters. Does Hunt really believe it? Does Sajid Javid? Does Oliver Letwin? To paraphrase Peter Sarstedt are those the thoughts that really surround them when they are alone in their beds?
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Epilepsy and suicide have been identified as the main causes why people with autism are dying more than 16 years than the general population, according to research by Karolinska Institute.

The Swedish study looked at the health records of 27,000 autistic adults and used 2.7 million people as a control sample for the general population and found that those with autism and an associated learning disability had an average age of death being 39, which was 30 years earlier than the average for general population, BBC reported.

The Swedish study also suggested that people with autism, who were not held back by any intellectual disability, died on average 12 years younger, at 58 years old rather than 70. Published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, the study was carried out in Sweden.

A previous study has suggested that autistic women are more at risk of suicide than men and only half of autistic people who have considered suicide were categorised as depressed - although this latter point may be down to problems with communication in diagnosis.The research, which was published online in November 2015, was carried out by Dr Tatja Hirvikoski, who described her findings as "shocking and disheartening" and she said there was an "urgent need for increased knowledge".

The charity, Autistica, noted that the new findings support previous ones that indicate that people with autism are at heightened risk of mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, on top of neurological conditions, such as epilepsy. They are also at risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Autistica now wants to raise 10m over the next five years to enable more research into the condition to exactly explain the link between autism and epilepsy.



In the UK it is estimated 1% of the population - or 700,000 people - have autism and it causes difficulties in how they communicate and relate to others. On the other hand, there are more than 3.5 million Americans who have this condition, Web MD reported.



Around a quarter of people with autism speak very few or no words, while statistically only 15% go on to find full-time employment. Almost three-quarters of people have at least one associated mental health condition, while 40% have two, the charity pointed out. Autistica also wants the government to carry out a national autism mortality review.

See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare
AMU Stands In Solidarity With UoH

By People for People (AMU) & All India Students Association (AISA)

28 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

Protest March against state excesses on HCU students & MHRDs diktat to curb the freedom of expression of Urdu Writers

The students of Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh has organized today a Protest March from Maulana Azad Library to Baab-e-Syed (AMU) as a solidarity act with the ongoing nationwide protests against the state motivated excesses on protesting students of University of Hyderbad (UoH)/Hyderabad Central University (HCU).

The students of HCU are being treated in most inhuman way by the authorities and jailed along with some of supporting faculty members as they have committed some serious crime?. The students of AMU straightforwardly condemn this act of oppression upon voices of resistance in a democratic country of ours and demands immediate release of all faculty & students

The student fraternity of Aligarh Muslim University strongly condemns the brutal atrocities committed on students by the police, HCU administration and state machinery & irresponsible attitude of MHRD (GOI) in reinstallation of the culprit VC of HCU responsible for the tragic and untimed death of the dalit research scholar cum activist late Mr. Rohith Vemula.

In addition, students of AMU are highly concerned with the latest diktat of MHRD & NCPUL directing Urdu Writers to submit undertaking to seek financial assistance from government to publish any book stating that in his/her book there in no Anti State-Anti National content. Students of AMU straightforwardly condemn this selective discrimination to Urdu & Urdu Writers to curb their freedom of expression and demand immediate withdrawal of this controversial order/clause.

This is very unfortunate that instead of supporting & uplifting the students and writers from oppressed and weaker sections of society, highest constitutional offices in India like MHRD are indulge in weakening the oppressed classes through above descript acts.

The student fraternity of Aligarh Muslim University demands immediate resignation of Vice Chancellor of HCU Appa Rao and others directly responsible for abetment of suicide by late scholar Mr. Rohith Vemula.

People for People (AMU)

All India Students Association (AISA)










At Least 65 Killed In Suicide Attack On Children's Park In Lahore

By Countercurrents.org

28 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

A suicide bomb attack in a crowded children's park in the Pakistan city of Lahore killed at least 65 people and wounded more than 300 people. Most of the dead are women and children. A faction of the Pakistani Taliban, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, claimed responsibility for the attack and said that it was aimed at Christians celebrating Easter holiday.

A suicide bomber blew himself up a few metres from a children's play area. The bodies of those killed continued to arrive at the city's hospital morgues early on Monday, where worried friends and family also looked for and registered loved ones still missing.

In 2014, Pakistan launched an offensive against the Taliban and affiliated groups in the North Waziristan region, seeking to deprive them of safe havens from which to launch attacks in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Lahore is the capital of Punjab, which has normally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan.

Last year, a bomb killed a popular provincial minister and at least eight others when it destroyed his home in the region.

Soon after the attack, the Punjab government ordered all public parks closed and declared three days of mourning. The main shopping areas were closed and many of the city's roads were deserted.








Head In The Sanders Up Hillary Creek Without A Trump Card

By Linh Dinh

29 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

No presidential candidate should be taken seriously unless he or she addresses these basic concerns:

9/11

Since this is the pretext for our endless War on Terror, it should be examined thoroughly and publicly, with testimonies from pilots, architects, engineers, scientists and eye witnesses, including first responders. Like many Americans, I find the official explanation ludicrous. Why cant we have a convincing answer to how World Trade Center 7 imploded and collapsed into its own footprint? Or how was it possible for a Boeing 757 to shave the ground and hit the Pentagon from the side, as steered by an amateur pilot? Many other questions have also been brushed aside, with Donald Trump going only as far as implying that Saudi Arabia may be behind this tragedy. Why Saudi Arabia, but not Israel? By suppressing a legitimate investigation, Washington is at least complicit in this unspeakable crime. Both the how and who of that day need to brought to light, though I fear much of America will be smoldering ruins before then. The criminals will have finished the job.

Terrorism

The US and its allies have funded and trained the Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS, so how can it claim to be fighting terrorists? Bin Laden, too, was an American asset, and it sure wasnt him our bumbling Seals killed on May 2nd, 2011. Even as a non-corpse, Osama served Uncle Sam. For five years, Syria has been attacked by American-backed terrorists. Many arrived from Libya, a country weve already wrecked, to the glee of Hillary Clinton. The US has a long history of using terrorists and hooligans to destabilize countries, but it poses, preposterously, as the upholder of global stability. Though none of our politicians can possibly be blind to this grotesque contradiction, they play along with the Disney script. In spite of his token or symbolic objection to the Iraq invasion, Sanders supported regime changes in Iraq, Libya, Ukraine and now Syria.

Military Reach

The US isnt patrolling this entire earth to protect its allies, but to make sure they dont fall out of its sphere of influence. Its not occupying Europe to shield it against Russia, for example, but to prevent Europeans from cozying up to Russia and China. Eurasia must not become an integrated block. Fine, this is what an empire is supposed to do, but when its hollowed out and falling apart, perhaps its time to redefine America? Though brainwashed from cradle to grave that theirs is the indispensible nation, the apex of mankind and climax of history, many Americans have started to doubt their special status as their Access card runs short each month, their muffler scrapes the asphalt and their toothache goes untreated. Though its painful to fall from first to middling, one must deal with this new reality. Closing bases, withdrawing troops and gutting the military budget will allow us to focus and spend on domestic exigencies. The alternative is to go berserk with missiles as the curtain falls. Lost in unreality and hubris, Donald Trump wants our allies to pay us to keep them in line. He also thinks Mexico should foot the bill for a border wall to keep themselves out.

Borders

U.S. borders are not porous out of charity or ineptness, but because this benefits American businesses, and it has always been this way. Instead of bringing in slaves, indentured servants and coolies, our rulers welcome illegal immigrants to keep wages down. This also keeps our social fabric in constant turmoil, thus making a unified front against our masters nearly impossible.

Illegal immigration from Mexico was greatly exacerbated by NAFTA, for it allowed us to dump subsidized corn onto the Mexican market, thus bankrupting their farmers and forcing many to sweat inside American-owned maquilladoras. When many of these shut down, a wave of Mexicans crossed over to become the main workforce of our housing bubble.

American borders, then, are essentially violated by its own government, but this shouldnt surprise, since Washington routinely ignores other countries borders. There is a huge difference, however. When we barge into another country, its never to empty their bedpans or wash their dishes, but usually to kill them. America is the worlds most persistent and violent violator of international borders.

Moving forward, the US should respect all borders, including its own. Without having to relentlessly compete against illegal immigrants, poorer Americans will have a better chance at regaining their economic equilibrium.

Banks

Reviving an initiative started by Ron Paul, Donald Trump wants to audit the Federal Reserve, but as Paul, Ellen Brown and others have pointed out repeatedly over the years, the ultimate solution is to abolish the Fed altogether, for why should this criminal banking cartel have the power to ease money out of its fat ass to lend to the rest of us? We need United States Notes, as authorized by Kennedy before he was shot, not Federal Reserve perpetual debt vehicles. A country that cant even coin its own currency is one without sovereignty. Since its nothing but a loan shark outfit and money counterfeiter, the Federal Reserve must be eliminated.

Israel

Israel is a horrible concept criminally maintained by a deluge of American tax dollars, plus rivers of blood, much of it Muslim but also American. Defending this most hated state, the U.S. has also become a pariah. Under Israels manipulation, the United States hasnt just systematically destroyed one Muslim country after another, it has wrecked its own honor, reputation, present and future. In spite of all this, no American presidential candidate can question the U.S. eternal role in propping up this criminal country.

Chained to endless war on a false premise, enslaved by banksters and led by the nose by a tiny, besieged nation that must spill blood endlessly just to exist, its no wonder the United States is going down.

Linh Dinh is the author of two books of stories, five of poems, and a novel, Love Like Hate. Hes tracking our deteriorating socialscape through his frequently updated photo blog, Postcards from the End of America.








"Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite" Abandoned For Forced Asylum

By Maya Evans

29 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

Calais: This month, French authorities (supported and funded by the UK government to the current balance of 62 million) [1] have been demolishing the 'Jungle, a toxic wasteland on the edge of Calais. Formerly a landfill site, 4 km it is now populated by approximately 5,000 refugees who have been pushed there over the past year. A remarkable community of 15 nationalities adhering to various faiths comprises the Jungle. Residents have formed a network of shops and restaurants which, along with hamams and barber shops contribute to a micro-economy within the encampment. Community infrastructure now includes schools, mosques, churches and clinics.

Afghans, numbering approximately 1,000, constitute the largest national group. Among this group are people from each of the main ethnicities in Afghanistan: Pashtoons, Hazaras, Uzbeks and Tajiks. The Jungle is an impressive example of how people from different nationalities and ethnicities can live together in relative harmony, despite oppressive hardship and infringement of universal rights and civil liberties. Arguments and scuffles sometimes break out, but they're normally catalysed by French authorities or traffickers.

Earlier this month Teresa May won a significant battle to restart flights deporting Afghans back to Kabul, on the grounds that it is now safe to return to the capital city. [2]

Just 3 months ago I sat in the Kabul office of 'Stop Deportation to Afghanistan. [3] Sunlight poured through the window like golden syrup on a top floor apartment, the city of Kabul shrouded in dust splayed out like a postcard. The organisation is a support group run by Abdul Ghafoor, a Pakistan-born Afghan who spent 5 years in Norway, only to be deported to Afghanistan, a country he had previously never visited. Ghafoor told me about a meeting he had recently attended with Afghan government ministers and NGOs - he laughed as he described how the non-Afghan NGO workers arrived at the armed compound wearing bullet proof vests and helmets, and yet Kabul has been deemed a safe space for returning refugees. The hypocrisy and double standards would be a joke if the upshot was not so unfair. On one hand you have foreign embassy staff being airlifted (for security reasons) [4] by helicopter within the city of Kabul, and on the other you have various European governments saying its safe for thousands of refugees to return to Kabul.

In 2015, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan documented 11,002 civilian casualties (3,545 deaths and, 7,457 injured) exceeding the previous record in 2014 [5].

Having visited Kabul 8 times in the last 5 years, Ive been acutely aware that security within the city has drastically declined. As a foreigner I no longer take walks longer than 5 minutes, day trips to the beautiful Panjshir Valley or the Qarga lake are now considered too risky. Word on the Kabul streets is that the Taliban are strong enough to take the city but can't be bothered with the hassle of running it; meanwhile independent ISIS cells have established a foothold [6]. I regularly hear that Afghan life today is less secure than it was under the Taliban, 14 years of US/NATO-backed war has been a disaster.

Back in the Jungle, north France, 21 miles from the British isles, around 1,000 Afghans dream of a safe life in Britain. Some have previously lived in Britain, others have family in the UK, many have worked with the British military or NGOs. Emotions are manipulated by traffickers who describe the streets of Britain as paved with gold. Many refugees are discouraged by the treatment they've received in France where theyve been subjected to police brutality and attacks by far-right thugs. For various reasons they feel the best chance of a peaceful life is in Britain. Deliberate exclusion from the UK just makes the prospect even more desirable. Certainly the fact that Britain has agreed to take only 20,000 Syrian refugees over the next 5 years [7], and overall the UK is taking 60 refugees per 1,000 of the local population who claimed asylum in 2015, compared to Germany which is taking 587 [8], has played into the dream that Britain is the land of exclusive opportunity.

I spoke with Afghan community leader Sohail, who said: "I love my country, I want to go back and live there, but it's just not safe and we have no opportunity to live. Look at all the businesses in the Jungle, we have talents, we just need the opportunity to use them". This conversation happened in the Kabul Cafe, one of the social hotspots in the Jungle, just one day before the area was set ablaze, the whole south high street of shops and restaurants razed to the ground. After the fire, I spoke with the same Afghan community leader. We stood amid the demolished ruins where we had drunk tea in the Kabul cafe. He feels deeply saddened by the destruction. "Why did the authorities put us here, let us build a life and then destroy it?"

Two weeks ago the south part of the Jungle was demolished: hundreds of shelters were burnt or bulldozed leaving some 3,500 refugees with nowhere to go [9]. The French authorise now want to move onto the north part of the camp with the aim of rehousing most refugees within white fishing crate containers, many of which are already set up in the Jungle, and currently accommodate 1,900 refugees. Each container houses 12 people, there's little privacy, and sleeping times are determined by your 'crate mates' and their mobile phone habits. More alarmingly, a refugee is required to register with French authorities. This includes having your finger prints digitally recorded; in effect, it's the first step into forced French asylum.

The British government has consistently used the Dublin Regulations [10] as legal grounds for not taking its equal quota of refugees. These regulations prescribe that refugees should seek asylum in the first safe country they land in. However, that regulation is now simply impractical. If it was properly enforced, Turkey, Italy and Greece would be left to accommodate the millions of refugees.

Many refugees are requesting for a UK asylum centre within the Jungle, giving them the ability to start the process for asylum in Britain. The reality of the situation is that refugee camps like the Jungle are not stopping people from actually entering the UK. In fact these blights on human rights are reinforcing illegal and harmful industries such as trafficking, prostitution and drug smuggling. European refugee camps are playing into the hands of human traffickers; one Afghan told me that , the current going rate to be smuggled into the UK is now around 10,000 [11], the price having doubled over the last few months. Setting up a UK asylum centre would also remove the violence which often occurs between truck drivers and refugees, as well as tragic and fatal accidents which come about during transit into the UK. It's perfectly possible to have the same number of refugees entering the UK via legal means as there are by the ones which exist today.

The south part of the camp now stands desolate, burnt to the ground other than for a few social amenities. An icy wind whips across the expanse of littered wasteland. Debris flaps in the breeze, a sad combination of rubbish and charred personal belongings. French riot police used tear gas, water canons and rubber bullets to aid the demolition. Currently there's a stalemate situation wherein some NGOs and volunteers are reluctant to rebuild homes and constructions which might quickly be demolished by French authorities.

The Jungle represents incredible human ingenuity and entrepreneurial energy exhibited by refugees and the volunteers who have poured their lives into making a community to be proud of; simultaneously it's a shocking and shameful reflection of the decline in European human rights and infrastructure, where people who flee for their lives are forced to inhabit communal crate containers, a form of indefinite detention. Unofficial comments made by a representative of the French authorities indicates a possible future policy whereby refugees who choose to remain outside of the system, opting either to be homeless or not to register, could potentially face imprisonment for up to 2 years.

France and Britain are currently shaping their immigration policy. It is especially disastrous for France, with a constitution founded on "Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite", to base that policy on demolishing temporary homes, excluding and incarcerating refugees, and forcing refugees into unwanted asylum. By giving people the right to choose their country of asylum, assisting with basic needs such as accommodation and food, responding with humanity rather than suppression, the State will be enabling the best possible practical solution, as well as complying with international human rights, laws set down to protect the safety and rights of everyone in the world today.



Maya Evans coordinates Voices for Creative Non-Violence UK, she has visited Kabul 8 times in the last 5 years where she works in solidarity with young Afghan peace makers. @MayaAnneEvans

[1] http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/david-cameron-uk-give-france-20-million-to-stop-calais-migrants-refugees-reaching-england-a6908991.html

[2]

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/refugee-crisis-afghanistan-ruled-safe-enough-to-deport-asylum-seekers-from-uk-a6910246.html

[3] https://kabulblogs.wordpress.com/

[4]

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/04/world/asia/life-pulls-back-in-afghan-capital-as-danger-rises-and-troops-recede.html?_r=1

[5] https://unama.unmissions.org/civilian-casualties-hit-new-high-2015

[6]

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/may/07/taliban-young-recruits-isis-afghanistan-jihadis-islamic-state

[7]

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/sep/07/uk-will-accept-up-to-20000-syrian-refugees-david-cameron-confirms

[8] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34131911

[9] http://www.vox.com/2016/3/8/11180232/jungle-calais-refugee-camp

[10]

http://www.ecre.org/topics/areas-of-work/protection-in-europe/10-dublin-regulation.html

[11]

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/the-times/peoplesmuggler-gangs-exploit-new-route-to-britain-from-dunkirk/news-story1ff6e01f22b02044b67028bc01e3e5c0












The US-NATO War In Syria And The Brussels Terror Attacks

By Alex Lantier

28 March, 2016

WSWS.org

As revelations mount of police foreknowledge of the March 22 Brussels bombings, the central question that is emerging is why the security forces of Belgium and its NATO allies did not move to stop the attacks. That the Belgian state had detailed prior knowledge of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) network that carried out the bombings is emerging in numerous press reports.

On Sunday, the Sunday Times carried an interview with Alexandrino Rodrigues, the landlord of the flat in the Schaerbeek neighbourhood where the March 22 attackers raised suspicions by releasing chemical odours as they built the bombs they later took to Zaventem Airport. Police had previously gone to the apartment and knocked on the door, apparently without entering. There were investigations before and after the events of March 22, Rodrigues said, adding, You cant catch a rabbit without knowing where it lives.

Police rapidly moved on the Schaerbeek apartment after the airport bombings, sealing it off only 90 minutes after the attack. Police said they had been alerted by a tip from the taxi driver who drove the bombers to the airport. However, the taxi driver subsequently contradicted this account, saying he had alerted police only after a photo of the attackers was released several hours later, leaving unexplained how police reacted so quickly.

This story, the New York Times wrote, is raising questions about whether the police had perhaps already had the building in their sights but, for some reason, had not moved in and smashed through the front door of the sixth-floor apartment until it was too late.

This news came after Fridays reports that police knew the location of the hideout of Salah Abdeslam, the ISIS fugitive wanted in the November 13 terror attacks in Paris, throughout the four months in which he was described as Europes most wanted man, until his capture on March 18. Police did not try to apprehend him for the entire period. Once he was captured, moreover, he received only a perfunctory two-hour interrogation. Though he knew several of the March 22 attackers, including Najim Laachraoui, he was reportedly not asked whether any other attacks were being prepared.

The New York Times characterization of these events as a trail of dots not connected, echoing the official position of the Belgian government, does not hold water. In reality, this attack, like the two ISIS attacks in Paris last year, are the product of the reckless and reactionary decision of Washington and its major European allies to mobilize Islamist militias to wage a proxy war for regime change in Syria.

For years, a small army of European Islamist fighters has been traveling back and forth between Europe and Syria to carry out raids and terror bombings aimed at destabilizing and toppling President Bashar al-Assads government. A Europe1 report last December, citing the New York-based private intelligence firm Soufan Group, estimated the number of foreign Islamist fighters in Syria at between 27,000 and 31,000. These included 5,000 Europeans, with 1,700 from France alone.

Other major contributors were the Maghreb, with 8,000 fighters (including 6,000 from Tunisia), the Middle East, with over 8,000 fighters (including 2,500 Saudis), and Russia and Central Asia, with 4,500 (including 2,400 Russians).

Such a vast and undisturbed flow of fighters could not proceed without the knowledge of the intelligence agencies, many of which have worked closely with these proxy forces in Syria to plan attacks on Assads troops and on Syrian civilians. This is why those leading the major ISIS attacks in Europethe Kouachi brothers who attacked Charlie Hebdo, November 13 attack leader Abdelhamid Abaaoud, and the El Bakraoui brothers in Brusselswere to a man well known to the security services. It is evident that protocols were in place for their movements to proceed unhindered, so they could plan and execute attacks.

Europe knew exactly what was happening, but they started a blame game and said the entire problem was on the Turkish-Syrian border, a senior Turkish security official told the Guardian.

This official complained that European intelligence agencies did not help Ankara track European Islamists arriving in Turkey to go to Syria, and even helped Islamist fighters deported from Turkey return there, the Guardian reported, quoting him as saying, Without European intelligence backing, [Turkey] could only prosecute them for attempting to illegally cross into Syria and deport them back to Europe. Some of those deported were later given new passports and allowed to travel back to Turkey.

The handful of alleged ISIS accomplices, logistical aides and document forgers now being arrested in police raidsseven in Brussels, two in Paris, several more in Germany and Italyare a tiny part of the vast network built up during NATOs war in Syria. Viewed in this context, European officials carefully worded statements on the attacks make clear that their security forces are badly stretched by the Islamist operations they have unleashed.

We have had results to find the terrorists and, both in Brussels and in Paris, there have been a certain number of arrests that took place, French President Francois Hollande said Friday, but we know there are other networks. Even if the network that committed the Paris and Brussels attacks is on the way to being annihilated, a threat remains.

The threat is unprecedented, and intelligence and domestic law enforcement agencies appear to be overwhelmed by the numbers involved, said Aaron Stein of the Atlantic Council think tank.

The conflict is all the more bitter because, through the Brussels attacks, ISIS is intervening in a raging debate over the war within the foreign policy establishments of the NATO powers, fuelled by the stark reversals suffered by their proxy forces at the hands of Syrian government forces backed by Russian air power.

These conflicts emerged publicly on Saturday with reports that a Pentagon-backed ethnic Kurdish militia, the Syrian Democratic Forces, was engaging in gun battles with an Arab Islamist militia backed by the CIA and Turkey, the Fursan al-Haq (Army of Righteousness). This brought US military and Turkish officials to loggerheads, the Los Angeles Times wrote.

Turkey fears that Syrian Democratic Forces victories in Syria could lead to the formation of an independent Kurdish state on Turkeys southern border, stoking up separatist sentiment among Kurds across the border in Turkey itself.

As these conflicts erupt on the ground in Syria, correspondingly violent debates are proceeding behind the scenes in the offices and agencies of the major NATO powers, as they debate how to respond to the Russian military intervention in Syria.

The Syrian government, which recently recaptured Palmyra, has been vastly strengthened by Russian operations and airstrikes. Speaking yesterday on CBS News Face the Nation program upon his return from talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Geneva, US Secretary of State John Kerry indicated that Washington was considering taking a more conciliatory stance toward Russia.

Kerry said, Russia has helped to bring about the Iran nuclear agreement, Russia helped to get the chemical weapons out of Syria. Russia is now helping with the cessation of hostilities [in Syria]. And if Russia can help us to actually effect this political transitionthat is all to the strategic interests of the Unites States of America.

Such proposals pose a deadly threat to ISIS, its fighters in Syria, and its recruiting networks and operatives internationally, all of which are products of the US-led imperialist wars in Iraq, Libya and Syria. The Brussels attacks have the character of a bloody signal from ISIS that, due to its substantial logistical infrastructure within Europe, it can retaliate against Russian airstrikes and a possible cut-off of NATO support in Syria with deadly terror attacks in Europe and beyond.

The victims of such atrocities, and the criminal policies of the imperialist powers that ultimately spawned them, are innocent civilians across the Middle East and North Africa, and increasingly within Europe itself.








Pakistan: Suicide Bomber Attacked Christians On Easter Sunday

By Aftab Alexander Mughal

28 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

At least 72 people were killed, with 29 children among the dead, and over 340 injured in a suicide blast on Easter Sunday at Gulshan Iqbal Park, Lahore, the capital of Punjab province, Pakistan, Because of Sunday and Easters celebrations, the park was packed and there were around 3,000 people at the time of blast. A suicide bomber blew himself up at the exit gate of the park where many Christians, mainly women and children, were celebrating Easter after Easters prayer services. So far, ten Christian families dead bodies have been identified. These families are belong to Youhanabad, Bahar Colony and Khaliq Nagar. According to The News, the children were playing on swings and enjoying other recreational facilities available in the park along with their parents when they were hit at 6:35 pm on Sunday. Many eyewitnesses told media that there was no security in and around the park.

Ehsanullah Ehsan, a spokesman of Jamat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban has accepted responsibility for the deadly attack. We claim responsibility for the attack on Christians as they were celebrating Easter, he said in his message.

The Punjab government announced three days mourning in memory of blast victims, and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif chaired a meeting after the blast to review the security situation in the country.

This was not the first suicide attack on Christians in Pakistan, they have continuously under attack by terrorist groups because of their faith. According to Minority Concern, around 21 people were killed and more than 80 injured on 14 March last year, in two suicide attacks by Taliban at two churches in Youhanabad, a Christian neighbourhood in Lahore. After a year on, not even a single person has been brought to justice. On 23 September 2013, Taliban suicide bombers attacked the All Saints Church in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, in which more than 80 were killed, and about 120 people were injured. The majority of them were women and children.

The alleged suicide bomber was identified as Mohammad Yousaf from district Muzaffargarh, Southern Punjab. He studied in a madrasa in Lahore, and he was resided at the same madrasa for the last 8 years. The Inter-Service Public Relations (ISPR) said on Monday that a number of alleged terrorists and their facilitators have been arrested in anti-terrorism raid conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan.

Aftab Alexander Mughal is the editor of the Minority Concern of Pakistan magazine and former National Executive Secretary of the Justice and Peace Commission of Pakistan.








In The Aftermath Of Brussels - World Needs Peace And Global Justice; Not More Militarism

By Ranjan Solomon

28 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

The first thing that hit my mind when news on the so-called terrorist attack in Belgium broke out was that there would be several countries who would now seek to squeeze maximum advantage from the horrific episode. The military-industrial-complex/counter-terrorism establishments must be cynically licking their lips and celebrating with glee!

As in the case of France and Ankara, not too long ago, it was to be expected that European powers would adopt a skewed black-and-white analysis (Muslim terror is the cause) while concealing the real political facts with insinuations and even false propaganda against the community. That has happened time and time out with western media outlets.

Having said this, the killings were an outrage and must be condemned; never mind the origins or reasons. Killing is inhumane and barbaric and whoever committed the act deserves to be handed tough penalization.

The fact, however, remains that investigations must seek the real truth and not merely point fingers at the usual suspects. Propagandists will surely want to heighten Islamafobia. That is a pathway filled with risk. After all, what else is Islamafobia but misguided racism with a strong dose of colonialism? Islamafobists have succeeded in developing the language of hate and prejudice only to hide the fault lines in the systems of injustice and corruption in their own countries. It is a subtle tool of domination that uses the media to instill fear in the other while the real machines of hate are not the so-called Islamists; rather they are those who use dubious reasoning to create a slur about Muslims and Islam and project, what is otherwise a religion of peace, into a group who believe in the ideology of violence. These cynical manipulations have only succeeded in turning the world into two camps- the good guys and the bad guys. The good guys are usually Christian or Jewish while the bad guys are Muslim. Its Hollywood on the streets.

Seema Mustapha, writing in Indias first online newspaper, The Citizen, puts it succinctly when she analyzes the bombing in Belgium. She says: It was the al Qaeda earlier. It is the Islamic State now, an amorphous yet vicious entity that has spread out into the world with sophisticated weaponry and a deadly reach that clearly now extends outside West Asia into Europe as the deadly attacks in Brussels have so tragically demonstrated. It was, as security experts across the world have been warning, just a matter of time before this amorphous, vicious, entity crossed international borders and hit vulnerable civilian targets to strike terror at a time and place of its choice.

This has happened with Brussels taking the toll for what the Americans and the NATO members have been doing in West Asia since 2001 when US planes pounded Iraq and its tanks and soldiers marched in for a war that might have shifted targets, but has shown no signs of ending. In the process Iraq, Libya, Syria, Yemen have all been virtually destroyed, with large tracts of territory now occupied by the Islamic State, an army of Salafists, smugglers, mercenaries, victims of the US war like members of the Baath party from Iraq, remnants of the al Qaeda, al Nusra, all woven into a vicious fighting machine. The weapons have come in large numbers, and sufficient quantity and quality, from the war supported by the US and its western allies on Syria, with Turkey and Saudi Arabia ensuring the supply line.

These are times when staunch European loyalists will reject any questions raised as sheer counter-propaganda  the stuff from which conspiracy theories emanate. But, facts come out thick and fast in this day and age of social media. The truth cannot be permanently suppressed. Is it mere coincidence that the EU was about to meet with a Palestinian delegation the same day this happened? The question is asked: Was it a diversionary tactic that had the infamous touch of Mossad? Indeed it is time to dismiss any news or analysis from the mainstream media. It can be read out of curiosity but not in the search for facts and truth. The Israeli Minister of Science, Technology and Space, Ofir Akunis, said Europeans had lost sight of terrorism of extremist Islam by focusing on boycotting Israeli goods instead allowing the attacks to take place. So, was there a plot behind the attacks? Is this a copycat attack from 9/11, France, Ankara?

Patrick Cockburn writing in The Independent points to how There has always been a disconnect in the minds of people in Europe between the wars in Iraq and Syria and terrorist attacks against Europeans. This is in part because Baghdad and Damascus are exotic and frightening places, and pictures of the aftermath of bombings have been the norm since the US invasion of 2003. But there is a more insidious reason why Europeans do not sufficiently take on board the connection between the wars in the Middle East and the threat to their own security. Separating the two is much in the interests of Western political leaders, because it means that the public does not see that their disastrous policies in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and beyond created the conditions for the rise of and for terrorist gangs such as that to which Salah Abdeslam (thought to be the sole surviving planner of the Paris massacre) belonged.

Terror strikes such as the one in Brussels, or the carnage in Paris last year never led to questions about what France did in Syria and Libya. Europe has sat glibly thinking there would never be a price to pay for their egotistic, self-centered policies. Isis would not even be around had David Cameron and Nicolas Sarkozy kept out of their meddling ways and left Libya to itself under Gaddafi in 2011 or Sadaam Hussein in 2003. Al-Qaeda is expanding in Yemen, where Western leaders have given a free pass to Saudi Arabia to launch a bombing campaign that has wrecked the country. The Taliban was a creation of short-sighted American policies. Yes, it all comes back to haunt you. This is what one would term as Karma  introduce an evil into society and it comes back to haunt you, sometimes with alacrity which surprises. These cruel attacks that kill innocent people are ones framed by rulers who have their loyalty to two main sources- the military-industrial complex and the Zionist lobbies. The rulers go unscathed but the people pay. And there is money- business, for example, from the Saudis for a free hand in Yemen and dabbling in Syria too. And, of course, the sell-out of Palestine to the Zionists!

Feredica Mogherini, the European Unions foreign policy chief, is said to have broken down in tears breaks down in tears during a speech alongside Jordans foreign minister Nasser Judeh after what happened in Brussels. She offered lip-service to Islam in an act of patronage: Islam is religion of peace and dialogue and co-operation. The world was not waiting for her to enlighten us all about this. Such barefaced show of angst makes good media coverage but does little to uncover the truth of western brutality and neo-colonial practices. One asks: Do those who feign sorrow at the killings in France or Brussels have any thought for the everyday massacres in Palestine, for the millions killed in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Libya, and Yemen? It is they who are tormented; not the leaders who hold hands and put on sad faces for the media to report.

Feredica Mogherini can easily be accused of shedding crocodile tears  maybe she was really saddened. But whither those tears when it came to Libyans, Iraqis, Yemenese, Syrians, Palestinians, Afghans, and tens and thousand others who came into the cross fire in the killing fields; or in the way of the many miscalculations of the drones?

Peace is not on its way for as long as arrogant colonial/racist leaders drive the way the world is run. The UN is long reduced to impotence by the very powers that now engage in direct rule through cross border wars and intervene internally through civil wars.

Peace will come when nations are allowed to take sovereign decisions- regardless of whether those on the outside like the decisions or not. Citizens will turn things around when the time comes as history attests to. Political meddlers are added trouble and, more so, when their interests are self-directed.

Paris taught the world nothing. Brussels will be a repeat of Paris. Ankara is erased from media memory and, by extension, public recall. For peace to come neo-colonialism must be dismantled, and eradicated. Citizens of the self-proclaimed western democracies must stand tall, be better informed, stop believing in the fairy tales their media offers them, and seek alternative view points, engage in critical thinking and analysis. Its time, as Karl Marx called on us, to question everything.

A peace activist/political commentator remarked: The fear factor is being ramped up across Europe and well soon be clamoring for an armed presence on the streets of the Europe, a precursor for martial law, once that happens there will be little chance of going back. Terror attacks are often false flag operations and security experts have claimed this with hard evidence. The mainstream gives such information a pass. But there is a terror and counter-terror industry which has cultivated a method of keeping itself alive. In the meantime, Muslims in Belgium are asserting to their loyalty to their state. They resent the terror tag attached to them and ask, instead, that their governments go after the real causes of terror in the world rather mystify attacks such as this as Islamic in origin. Already, a media report has suggested that one of the two bombers wrote a desperate suicide note which was found in a trash can! Now, we do need to sift out facts from myths before the seeds of hatred grow to abominable proportions.

If anything can change the world, it will not be the politicians - clean or dirty- too few are without self-interest. It will not be military analysts or defense strategists. Not more weapons. More dialogue. The world needs an alert and agile civil society that will persistently put the political class and lobbies under scrutiny. For which group of ordinary people are not peace loving? There are examples of people taking peaceful protest in large numbers to force a reversal of policies. Some five decades ago, it was the Vietnam War. Two decades ago, it was apartheid that came crumbling down. Dictatorships, always propped up by the US and western allies for mere commercial gain, have been brought down.

So, there is hope and that hope must be built around a vision for a peace rooted in justice. Its also about claiming the right to say NO to war and injustice. It is about asserting: Another world is possible because this brave new world is in the womb of her mother waiting to be born.

Ranjan Solomon has worked on International Affairs for many years beginning 1982 at the Asia Pacific level in 1982. Currently he serves as Consultant to the Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum of the World Council of Churches. The views in this article are his own and do not represent those of any organization.










ISIS' Main Enemy Is Saudi Arabia Not Israel

By Dr. Ludwig Watzal

28 March, 2016

Countercurrents.org

In several of my German articles I have been arguing that an "Islamic State" doesn't make any sense without the control over the sacred sites of Islam, Mecca and Medina. That is why, so my reasoning, ISIS should not have attacked Al-Assad or the Al-Abadi regime, not to speak of Israel, but the Wahhabite Salafist Saudi Arabian dictatorship. This regime is the real enemy of Islam and bears partly the responsibility for the worldwide spread of its totalitarian ideology. But one should not forget that the US empire did everything possible to further this endeavor. Finally, the IS leadership has declared its political and ideological priorities in an article that was published in the 22nd issue of its mouthpiece "Al-Naba" titled: "Beit Al-Maqdis" ; this name stands for Jerusalem and is also symbolically used for its surroundings.

The article was translated by MEMRI, a media organization founded in 1998 by Yigal Carmon, Colonel in the Military Intelligence Directorate in Israel. The other founding members of MEMRI also served in the Military Intelligence of the IDF. MEMRI has a strong anti-Muslim bias.

I want to draw readers attention that this article could be a fabrication. Its main thrust is directed against the Muslim regimes and spares the West and Israel. Be that as it may, whether the article is authentic or a forgery of intelligence agencies, it gives insights into the methods of the war of ideas waged along the massive battles in the Middle East.

For ISIS, the Palestinian cause is not a top priority and is criticized as a "religiously prohibited excess". According to the article, jihad in Palestine has the same priority as jihad elsewhere in a world ruled by infidels. It continues that Palestine is not the primary cause for Muslims, and the fight against Israel is an internal affair of the Palestinian people. Fighting jihad for the current Fatah and Hamas regimes in Palestine is described as a waste of time. "Waging jihad with the aim of replacing the rule of the Jews with a regime like that of those who currently rule Gaza and the West Bank is jihad that is null and void  because it is being waged for the sake [of the Taghout=to idealize a person or entity instead of Allah], not for the sake of Allah."

The article is very critical of Gamal Abdel Nasser, Hafez al-Assad, Muammar Gaddafi and Saddam Hussein, who have argued over years that Palestine is the primary cause for Muslims. In doing so, they traded in the Palestinian issue and disillusioned their followers. This ISIS view seem incorrect because the above mentioned were Pan-Arab leaders. "The trade in Palestine goes beyond the nationalists, the leftists, and the Rafidites; it has long since entered the core of the platforms of the parties, groups, and organizations that falsely affiliate themselves with Islam. They see it as a means of recruiting men and uniting the ranks, because they can find no other goal on which people agree but the Palestinian cause  in which everyone, without exception, trades. They thought it would be easy to build their platform on the foundation of the 'problem of Palestine'... since they have found that people are distant from the religion. Therefore, they were tempted to rally people around themselves based on this defective foundation." The article calls "the apostate [tyrants] who rule the lands of Islam are graver infidels than [the Jews], and war against them takes precedence over the war against the original infidels".

The article is also very critical of the Shiites, especially Hezbollah, and it condemns also the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas. Muslin jihadists should fight against the Shiites and against Egypt's strongman Fattah as-Sisi. The fight in Israel/Palestine should also be carried out by Muslims. The jihadists who flocked into Syria should return and take on the jihad against "infidels" nearest to them.

The article spells out a warning to Palestinians not to join any organization but ISIS. "Waging jihad to rescue Beit Al-Maqdis from the Jews is no justification for joining infidel factions and parties such as the Shi'ite Hizb Al-Lat or the Islamic Jihad movement that is tied to it, or secularist and communist movements such as Fatah, the DFLP and the PFLP, or movements that claim to be Islamic but refrain from implementing the laws of Allah and instead effectively implement the polytheism of democracy, such as the apostate Hamas movement."

In sum, only after all Arab regimes that support Israel have been overthrown, jihadist forces can confront directly Israel and its army. "War against the Jews can be waged only by eliminating these [tyrants], toppling their regimes, and destroying their armies, and then arriving at the borders of the Jewish State and confronting its army directly."

So far, the Israel security establishment doesn't see ISIS and the other terrorist groups in Syria as an existential threat to its security. On the contrary, Israel treats wounded jihadist fighters in its hospitals and sends them back to the battlefield. The Israeli leadership still considers Iran and its affiliate Hezbollah the largest threat to Israel's security. According to the article, Israel doesn't have to worry, because the jihadists from ISIS have first to topple all the infidel Arab regimes before they will tackle Israel.

Dr. Ludwig Watzal works as a journalist and editor in Bonn, Germany. He runs the bilingual blog

http://between-the-lines-ludwig-watzal.blogspot.de/








U.S. Leaders Are Hucksters

By Eric Zuesse

28 March, 2016

Strategic-culture.org

Here is Bill Clinton, the U.S. President who served Wall Street by removing all regulations on derivatives-trading and by ending FDRs Glass-Steagall Act separation of investment-banking from consumer-banking, now telling an audience, that his successor George W. Bush had done this, and that Bushs successor Barack Obama has unfortunately continued it. He said this on March 21st when explaining why everyone should vote for his wife to undo the awful and trickle-down legacy of George W. Bush and Barack Obama:

"If you believe we can all rise together, if you believe weve finally come to the point where we can put the awful legacy of the last eight years behind us and the seven years before that when we were practicing trickle-down economics and no regulation in Washington, which is what caused the crash, then you should vote for her because shes the only person who basically had good ideas, will tell you how shes going to pay for them, can be commander in chief, and is a proven change maker with Republicans and Democrats and independents alike.

(Clarification: Where he said seven years he meant eight years, and where he said eight years" he meant seven years, because Bush had 8 years and Obama has thus far had 7.)

The truth is that just before Bill Clinton ended his Presidency he gave Wall Street exactly what it wanted: the ability to gamble with FDIC-insured money, so that Wall Street would be bailed out by taxpayers if their gamblers stopped gambling (investing) and the financial system consequently froze up  which happened in 2008. George W. Bush didnt make that change, Clinton did. Rotten as Bush was, Clinton was arguably even worse, but hes now alleging that his wife will undo his own trickle-down legacy.

Here is Donald Trump, pandering to the far-right, ethnocentric-Jewish, AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee), who hate Palestinians and Iran, telling these racist ethnocentric Jews why they should support Trump for President  and opening by telling his suckers that hes not going to pander to them:

"I didn't come here tonight to pander to you about Israel. That's what politicians do: all talk, no action.  My number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran.  We have rewarded the world's leading state sponsor of terror with $150 billion and we received absolutely nothing in return.  Iran is a problem in Iraq, a problem in Syria, a problem in Lebanon, a problem in Yemen, and will be a very major problem for Saudi Arabia. Literally every day, Iran provides more and better weapons to their puppet states.  We will totally dismantle Irans global terror network. Iran has seeded terror groups all over the world. During the last five years, Iran has perpetrated terror attacks in 25 different countries on five continents. Theyve got terror cells everywhere, including in the western hemisphere very close to home. Iran is the biggest sponsor of terrorism around the world and we will work to dismantle that reach. Third, at the very least, we must hold Iran accountable by restructuring the terms of the previous deal.  The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as all know, it has its home. And it surely isnt a friend to Israel.  When I become President, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end on Day One. I will meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu immediately. I have known him for many years and we will be able to work closely together to help bring stability and peace to Israel and to the entire region.

On February 17th, Trump told the truth: "Who blew up the World Trade Center? It wasn't the Iraqis, it was Saudi. Not Iran, but Israels ally the Saud family, who are the chief financial backers of the overthrow-Assad operation (which Israels government likewise supports) and of the entire war against Iran and all Shia everywhere  including even Shia in Saudi Arabia itself  and who were the chief funders of Al Qaeda at least until 9/11, and (according to Bill Clintons wife Hillary Clinton, in private) even as late as 2009, were still the most significant source of funding to Sunni terrorist groups worldwide. As regards Shiite terrorist groups, theres only one, Hezbollah, and its exclusive focus is against Israel, not against the West. In fact, the title of that State Department cable from her was about Terrorist Finance: Action Request for Senior Level Engagement on Terrorism Finance, not about Sunni Terrorist Finance, because, she knows, all Islamic terrorism, except whats directed against Israel, is Sunni, none of it is Shiite. So: that cable of hers was sent only to U.S. Embassies in Sunni-run countries, not to the U.S. Embassy in the only Shiite-run country where the U.S. has an Embassy, which is Syria. The U.S. government is quite aware that terrorism (except against Israel) is strictly Sunni-fundamentalist-Islamic, and that Syrias ideologically secular, non-sectarian, government, has (like Russias secular non-sectarian government) always tried to crush it, never supported it. The U.S. is allied with the terrorist-financing countries, against Shiite-run countries, because Shiite-run countries (specifically Syria and Iran) are allied with Russia, which the U.S. government aims to isolate and ultimately conquer.

So: even when the hucksters who make it to the top of American politics tell the truth, its by accident. Truthfulness isnt ever their goal; winning and keeping power is.

Americans are taught that things are like that in African countries, and in former Soviet-bloc countries, but not that this is the way America itself is; to say a thing like this here is verboten in the respectable news media. Its not publishable. Its American samizdat. Any major news-medium that would publish it would be subject to severe sanctions; people would be fired. They might even be treated worse  like Chelsea Manning, Edward Snowden, and Julian Assange  isolated, smeared, and possibly imprisoned. It destroys careers of the few authentic journalists. Theyre supposed to be propagandists, instead. Even to call oneself a journalist here is supposed to be a lie. Theres virtually no remaining market for real journalism in the United States. The major advertisers wont patronize it, and the government-funded news media also dont allow it. So: certain types of truth are simply not publishable here.

Huckster-politicians and their friends just thrive in such an environment. Like U.S. President Obama himself says, The United States is and remains the one indispensable nation. All other nations are dispensable. Thats something which Donald Trump, Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton, might equally say. But, of course, none of them would be pandering. They dont do that  just ask them, and theyll tell you they dont (like Trump just did).



Investigative historian Eric Zuesse is the author, most recently, of Theyre Not Even Close: The Democratic vs. Republican Economic Records, 1910-2010, and of CHRISTS VENTRILOQUISTS: The Event that Created Christianity.








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Alzheimer's Association Program: "Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters," 1-2 p.m. Wednesday at the Posey County Council on Aging, 611 W. Eighth St., Mount Vernon, Indiana. Registration required by calling 800-272-3900.

Indiana Black Barbershop Health Initiative: Saturday at participating barbershops including Fila's Designs, 1010 S. Kentucky Ave.; Brown's Elite Hair Salon, 524 S. Kentucky Ave.; Jerald's Barbership, 1337 E. Walnut St.; Lynch's House of Coiffure, 555 S. Kentucky Ave.; Shark's Den Barbershop, 765 Lincoln Ave.; One World Barbering Salon, 15 S. Boeke Road and Going Forward Barber & Beauty Shop, 1015 E. Riverside Drive. The event will include free blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol screening along with prostate health information. Call 812-436-4927.

St. Mary's Center for Children: will host the ninth annual "Crop-Paper-Scissors" scrapbooking and craft event April 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the St. Mary's Manor Auditorium. Early registration is $35 and ends April 15. After that, the fee is $40. Proceeds help fund autism services for children in the community. The event includes a variety of craft activities, including scrapbooking, make-and-takes, stamping cards and gift ideas. Attendees are encouraged to bring their current projects. There will also be door prizes, a silent auction, and items for sale from vendors Doodlebug and Creative Dreams. Lunch will be provided. To reserve a spot or to make a donation, contact Kelly Shaw at 812-485-4419 or Kelly.Shaw@stmarys.org.

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 4 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 4 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 The Associated Press

SPENCER, Ind.  An Indiana man drank whiskey with the uncle of a 1-year-old girl and then waited until the family fell asleep before abducting, raping and killing the toddler, prosecutors said Monday in court documents.

Kyle Parker faces murder, rape, kidnapping and other charges in the death of Shaylyn Ammerman, whose body was found Thursday night following two days of intensive searching. A state police detective says in Owen County court documents that Parker, 22, of Spencer, directed investigators to the remote, wooded location.

A judge ordered that Parker remain jailed without bond and entered a not guilty plea for him during a Monday afternoon hearing. Parker appeared via video link from the county jail for the hearing.

The judge appointed attorney Jacob Fish as Parker's public defender. Fish didn't immediately return a telephone message left at his law office seeking comment.

Shaylyn's father and grandmother, Justin Ammerman and Tamera Morgan, were the last people known to have seen her late Tuesday. She had been staying at her father's home under a joint custody arrangement with the girl's mother; her grandmother and uncle also lived there.

Parker was drinking whiskey Tuesday night with Shaylyn's uncle at the father's home and abducted her in the early hours of Wednesday after other family members had fallen asleep, court documents said.

Parker denied involvement in Shaylyn's disappearance when first questioned on Wednesday, but directed police to where her body was found near the White River outside of Gosport, about 40 miles southwest of Indianapolis.

An autopsy found Shaylyn suffered severe sexual trauma while she was alive and died from asphyxiation. Investigators reporting finding the girl's body next to a tree and a burn pile nearby believed to contain her clothes and other evidence.

Several hundred people attended a prayer vigil for Shaylyn at a Spencer park Friday evening.
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By Max Roll of the Courier and Press

Evansville police arrested a man Saturday evening they suspect drove his ex-girlfriend's vehicle into Pigeon Creek.

According to an Evansville Police Department arrest affidavit made available Sunday, officers responded to a call around 9 a.m. made by a fisherman who claimed to have heard and saw a vehicle plunge into Pigeon Creek near Wabash Avenue and Ohio Street.

It took an all day effort and sonar equipment to locate a 2005 Ford Escape that had sunken nearly 30 feet. The vehicle was registered to a Karla Bradley who said her ex-boyfriend, Eric Leonard Williams, 39, of Evansville, took the vehicle from her Friday at a hotel in Henderson, Kentucky.

According to the affidavit, Bradley said Williams had keys to the SUV and met her Saturday at a house on Culver Avenue where she had been staying. She told police Williams attempted to reconcile their relationship but to no avail. She said Williams then took off with her vehicle and later sent a text message to her threatening to kill her. About an hour later was when her vehicle was seen entering Pigeon Creek.

During a police interview, Williams stated he had left the vehicle at Sunrise Park with the keys in it because he is not allowed on Bradley's work property, according to the affidavit. Williams admitted to police that he threatened Bradley and showed them the message on his phone.

The SUV was totaled in the plunge and Bradley said most of her personal belongings were inside the vehicle since she had been sharing a room with Williams in Henderson, according to the affidavit.

Williams is lodged in Vanderburgh County jail on preliminary charges of criminal mischief to a vehicle and intimidation. No bond is set as of Sunday evening.

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By Lacy Wilson, Special to the Courier & Press

If you have ever eaten lunch in a school cafeteria, you have seen the amount of food that gets tossed in the trash. The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp. cafeterias work hard to provide foods students enjoy and that are nutritious, but short lunch periods and varying appetites still can produce a substantial amount of food waste.

Statistics show that nationwide bags of food are being thrown away five days a week throughout the school year. An estimated 22 million unopened, unpeeled food items are tossed each year in Indiana school cafeterias. The numbers skyrocket to an estimated one billion nationwide, but Delaware Elementary school is doing something about the waste.

Working collaboratively toward a shared goal, EVSC food service director, EVSC assistant director of health services and Vanderburgh County's Purdue Extension community wellness coordinator brought the idea of a Food Rescue Program to Delaware School. EVSC is rescuing food that would have been thrown away through a program called K12 Food Rescue.

"Rescued food" must be prepackaged or individually wrapped to prevent contamination. What does rescuing food look like in Delaware Elementary? In the corner of the room there is what is known to the staff and students as the "Share Table." Any food that is unopened can be placed on the share table. During each lunch rotation the cafeteria staff ask students "what can be rescued from our lunch today?" The students raise their hands and answer. Common rescued foods are yogurt, cheese, crackers, milk, juice, muffins. The students were taught rescuing foods helps the environment by eliminated rotting food sitting in landfills.

If a child who ate his or her meal is still hungry, they are welcome to get a second offering from the share table. All food on the share table is stored in the cafeteria coolers until a caring agency is able to pick up the donated foods. In Delaware's case, the Dream Center picks up the rescued food.

EVSC is looking to expand the food rescue into more schools in the coming months.

Lacy Wilson is a community wellness coordinator for Purdue Extension and a proud partner of the HCP  Healthy ByFive.org.
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By Zach Osowski, zach.osowski@courierpress.com

INDIANAPOLIS  The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is reinstating its personalized license plate program after a three-year hiatus brought on by a lawsuit.

BMV Commissioner Kent Abernathy said the program will resume Friday, both online and at local branches. Abernathy said there are no changes in the program from the time it was suspended due to a lawsuit that made its way to the Indiana Supreme Court.

The lawsuit claimed the BMV denying certain applications but approving others was a violation of freedom of speech.

The court ruled in favor of the BMV, saying the agency had the right to deny some personalized applications if they were deemed offensive or derogatory. That ruling came in 2015, but Abernathy said the BMV wanted to make sure the program was ready to go after a lengthy break. He said he expects to see a large number of people applying for new plates once the system is back online.

"I like to say you can have it good or you can have it quick," Abernathy said. "We wanted to make sure we were doing this the right way."

On Friday, anyone renewing a license plate or registering a new car can go online or visit a branch to apply for a personalized plate. Abernathy said anyone who has an up-to-date plate and wants to change to a personalized one will have to do so at a store branch.

The reinstatement of the program is a continuation of major changes going on around the BMV since Gov. Mike Pence cleaned house last year. After a slew of problems where Hoosiers were over-charged or under charged on fees, Abernathy took over to change the BMV's structure. Lawmakers recently passed a bill drastically reworking the agency's fee structure. Abernathy said, thanks to the new fee structure, Hoosiers will have a better idea of what they are paying for and why when it comes to license fees.

Although the personalized plate program starts on Friday, most of the changes taken care of in the BMV overhaul bill won't go into effect until the start of 2017.
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A long-term distributor is being forced to close its doors after its one and only client decided to go direct to market.

Adelaide firm Pursuit Performance revealed that it will wind up its business after heart rate monitor maker Polar Revolution opted not to renew its contract.

After 30 years of being the sole distributor of Polar heart rate monitors within Australia, it is with great sadness that we advise that Pursuit Performance will be ceasing its business operations in the coming months, the company announced.

The distributor is currently running a closing-down sale across activity monitors and heart-rate monitors.

Pursuit Performance general manager Sally Nunan told CRN that US-based Polar would open an Australian branch.

Polar is establishing their own subsidiary in Australia. Polar globally either have independent distributors like us that they contract to distribute Polar or they set up their own subsidiary, she said.

Polar has 26 subsidiaries globally and manages a distribution network supplying more than 35,000 retail outlets in more than 80 countries, according to the vendors website.

Nunan said although Pursuit Performance was sad about its fate, it had recognised the weakness of a one-client strategy and that the Polar contract could never be taken for granted.

What we considered to be one of the strengths of our business is that we were 100 percent Polar-oriented, rather than an agency with a lot of different brands, she said.

Polar customers are extremely loyal and its been very enjoyable working with that business and industry. Hopefully when they come here themselves theyre able to continue with that.

Pursuit Performance is not alone in lsoing out as its vendor opted to go direct; last month, smart home vendor Control4 revealed it was parting ways with local distributor Advanced Audio Australia to sell direct to resellers.
Google has revealed an ambitious data centre expansion plan to grow from its current four regions to 16 when completed.

The search engine and cloud giant, a subsidiary of Alphabet, revealed the expansion strategy earlier this week, a day before welcoming its cloud-focused partners to its annual Next conference in San Francisco.

Each region is a self-contained data centre that offers multiple availability zones. Google Cloud facilities in operation now are in South Carolina, Iowa, Belgium and Taiwan. Later this year, Google is set to open new regions in Oregon and Japan.

But Google surprised many by revealing that those were just the first two of a dozen on the horizon  with 10 regions planned to light up on the network through 2017. Google did not reveal in which countries these would be situated, or whether Australia would get it first region.

Google has been on a roll since hiring Diane Greene, VMware's co-founder and former CEO, in November as its cloud chief.

There are signs that Greene will re-energise Google partner strategy. Earlier this year, Greene joined a customer meeting alongside US-based channel partner SADA Systems. Bloomberg reported SADA's chief executive, Tony Safoian, as saying it was the first time in nine years an executive of Greene's seniority had attended a customer meeting.

Google has also been courting partners by underwriting the costs of migrating midmarket customers currently locked into competing enterprise agreements with the likes of Microsoft. Major Australian partner Dialog IT has already jumped on the offer with a bundle to lure government users to Google For Work.

Google recently notched a big win in signing music-streaming service Spotify as a customer, and last week CRN USA reported that Apple had shifted hundreds of millions in spending from AWS to Google.

Google product manager Varun Sakalkar, in a blog post setting forth the expansion, said the regions are intended to help Google Cloud users deploy services and applications closer to where their customers reside, delivering lower latency and a more responsive experience.

That proximity to a larger base of end-users means more applications will be suited to run on Cloud Platform in the future, according to Sakalkar.

Synergy Research noted in a report released Monday, the day before Google's announcement, that Google was trailing other hyper-scale providers in overall footprint  a liability in the blood sport that has become the cloud market.

"Google lags far behind AWS and Microsoft in the cloud infrastructure market, and at least part of that was down to having a cloud data centre network that wasn't as extensive," said John Dinsdale, Synergy's research director.

Amazon Web Services, IBM and Microsoft have established the broadest footprint, each with more than 40 data centres, with multiple facilities in several regions. AWS last week celebrated its 10th birthday  the company has maintained its first-mover advantage over that time, though its rivals have been catching up.

That Synergy report said more than half of the world's major data centers are in the US.

This article originally appeared at crn.com
Dick Smith employees have vented their frustration from being left in the dark on when stores will close, unable to move on to new careers.

Posts and photos on Reddit indicated that employees at a Melbourne store last week placed signs around the premises telling customers they didnt know when Dick Smith stores would close. Some signs even asked customers to recommend new jobs that Dick Smith employees could go to after the closure.

CRN has seen another sign at the inner west Sydney suburb of Leichardt advertising for a short-term casual sales consultant to work with the team during the closure.

A spokesperson for Dick Smiths receivers Ferrier Hodgson said employees would receive redundancy notices and final work dates closer to closure date.

However, if employees resign before they're given their redundancy notice, they won't be entitled to a redundancy payout.

The spokesperson added that individual store closures were dependent on the sale of remaining stock, and not all stores would close on the same day.

An unnamed Dick Smith employee told Fairfax it was difficult to look for new work because management still hadnt specified when stores would close.

"The problem is because we haven't received our notice of redundancy, and without a notice of redundancy you basically void your entitlements [if you leave]," the employee told Fairfax.

"I would only take a new job if they were willing to wait until Dick Smith closes, because I'm not missing out on potentially thousands of dollars of redundancy."

He added that Dick Smith was required to give employees four weeks notice if they were made redundant, which didnt happen when Dick Smiths Move and Electronics Powered by Dick Smith stores were closed.

Earlier this week, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission said it would investigate Dick Smiths collapse for issues of administered trust and confidence.
Rackspace will now offer its trademarked 'Fanatical Support' services for Amazon Web Services customers in Australia and New Zealand.

The company  which provides its own hosting and managed services as well as supporting third-party clouds  said it has trained and recruited a team of certified AWS engineers and architects to offer 24x7 managed support across all AWS products.

Fanatical Support for AWS was first announced at the AWS Re:Invent event at Las Vegas in October 2015. Rackspace started provisioning beta customers in Australia and New Zealand later that year.

Rackspace ANZ senior director Angus Dorney said accreditation has been a focus for the company. Our local team has 25 certifications, and every 'Racker' is credited on at least one AWS product."

Stefan Jansen, head of channels and alliances at AWS Australia and New Zealand, said Rackspace brings a great deal of industry experience.

The dedication the Rackspace team has shown towards training and certifications on our platform, as well as the added services they are offering through Fanatical Support for AWS, will bring added choice to the rapidly growing AWS customer base across all segments, he said.

Rackspace, which is a Platinum sponsor of the upcoming AWS Summit in Sydney, recently announced a partnership with Synnex, as part of the distributor's newly launched cloud marketplace.

CRN and iTnews are exclusive media partners of the 2016 AWS Summit. Make sure to drop by our stand at the conference, which takes place on 27-28 April at the Horden Pavilion in Sydney. The AWS Partner Summit is on 26 April at the Sofitel Wentworth.
Diane Greene, the VMware co-founder who's now leading Google's cloud business, said the search giant is ready to make its mark in a public cloud market where it's trailing Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure by a wide margin.

"We are dead serious about this business," Greene said in press conference at last week Google's GCP Next conference in San Francisco. "We've spent billions on data centres and are going to use them as much as we can. This is a long-term, forever event."

Google has been in the public cloud space for several years now, with modest results so far. Google has around 4 percent of the market compared with 31 percent for cloud services kingpin Amazon Web Services, 9 percent for Microsoft and 7 percent for IBM SoftLayer, according to Synergy Research.

Google may be playing catch-up in the cloud platform services market, but it has an edge in areas like machine learning, open-source software and security, Greene said in the press conference.

Greene said Google also offers better pricing and performance than the competition. "We have extraordinarily efficient data centre systems and these operations let us offer lower prices."

Morgan Stanley recently estimated that Google's cloud infrastructure business generated around US$500 million in revenue during 2015, while AWS said in January that its business was on a US$9.6 billion annualised run rate. Microsoft doesn't break out Azure revenue.

Google lags when it comes to attracting large enterprise customers to its cloud, and Greene  who sold to large companies during her time at VMware  has been brought in to get the ball rolling. To further reinforce Google's commitment to cloud, Alphabet chairman Eric Schmidt and Google CEO Sundar Pichai also took the stage to talk up the progress being made on this front.

At the conference, Google revealed that Home Depot, Disney and Coca-Cola are now Google Cloud Platform customers. Google also said BMC, Pivotal, Red Hat, SAP, Splunk, Tenable Network Security, Veritas and several other enterprise software vendors are working to integrate their offerings with Google Cloud Platform.

The big enterprise customer wins come on the heels of a blockbuster Google deal to provide Google Cloud Platform services to Apple, which was first reported by CRN USA last week.

Since inking the Google deal late last year, Apple has also significantly reduced its reliance on Amazon Web Services, whose infrastructure it uses to run parts of iCloud and other services, according to CRN USA's sources.

Earlier this week, Google announced that it is building new data centres in Oregon and Tokyo, both of which will begin operations later this year. Google said it's also planning to open an additional 10 data centre facilities by the end of 2017.

This article originally appeared at crn.com
Partners Take The Front Seat At Intel Solutions Summit

It's been a big year for Intel -- the Santa Clara, Calif.-based company released its new sixth-generation Skylake processor in the fall, and has been also made advances in new segments, including new technology relating to the Internet of Things, memory and data center.

At the forefront of this innovation are Intel's channel partners, which drive sales and pinpoint unique business applications for Intel products.

Partners are eyeing new products and channel-related news at the company's Intel Solutions Summit, which kicks off Tuesday in Orlando, Fla. From Intel's small-form-factor PCs to vertical specialty benefits, here are the topics partners want to discuss at the Intel Solutions Summit this week.
Guests on the new Carnival Vista will have a choice of three beers brewed onboard in the first brewery at sea in North America, according to a news release from Carnival Cruise Line.

Carnival Vistas RedFrog Pub & Brewery is the result of a new collaboration between Carnival and Miami-based Concrete Beach Brewery.

Concrete Beach is an Alchemy & Science brand, an independently operating subsidiary of The Boston Beer Company. Alchemy & Science is home to other breweries around the country, including Angel City Brewery in Los Angeles and Coney Island Brewing Co. in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Similarly, Concrete Beach is working closely with Carnival to create original recipes and source and select the finest ingredients to produce three craft beers that will be brewed and served onboard Carnival Vista. Those beers will include ThirstyFrog Port Hoppin IPA, ThirstyFrog Caribbean Wheat and FriskyFrog Java Stout.

Weve been working for months with these talented partners who have helped us create three exciting and unique craft beers for Carnival Vista and we anticipate our guests are going to absolutely love them, said Eddie Allen, Carnivals vice president of beverage operations.

Allen noted that the brews were specifically designed with Carnival Vista guests in mind. ThirstyFrog Port Hoppin IPA offers aromatic, floral and hoppy notes with passion fruit and citrus overtones while ThirstyFrog Caribbean Wheat is an unfiltered lager with aromas of bananas and spices. The third beer, FriskyFrog Java Stout, is a take on a traditional stout, rich and creamy with hints of coffee.

It was an honor to be a part of this one-of-a-kind project, and we feel like we created a great variety that is sure to please guests, said Jon Carpenter, Concrete Beach Brewery Brewmaster. Its common for vacationers to want to test out the local beer and Carnival Vista has taken the concept of local, and applied it to the decks of their ship."




Police in Tredyffrin, Pennsylvania are warning drivers about a new scam that uses accurate GPS information. The messages being sent to drivers claim to be speeding tickets; and in order to lend legitimacy to the scam, they contain accurate personal information as well as location data.

The emails contain an attachment, but it isn't clear if the attachment itself is malicious. To be on the safe side, drivers are warned to avoid opening the attachment, because if it is malicious it could infect the system.

The email contains the victim's first and last name, and it's addressed to an email address they're familiar with. In addition to accurate personal details, the email also contain valid GPS information (including roads traveled and speed.)

An example of the email was provided by the law enforcement agency:

From: Speeding Citation <Citation [at] safe-browsing [dot]com> To: [REDACTED] Date: 03/11/2016 03:08 PM Subject: [External] Notification of excess speed First Name: [REDACTED] Last Name: [REDACTED] Notification of excess speed Route: [REDACTED] Date: 8 March 2016 Time: 7:55 am Speed Limit: 40 Detected Speed: 52 The Infraction Statement contains an image of your license plate and the citation which must be paid in 5 working days.

The Tredyffrin police department raised the alert last week, and promptly notified other local police departments and the district courts.

The source of the GPS data isn't known, but given the level of accuracy in the information provided, Tredyffrin police have placed the blame on some type of traffic or mobility application.

It's possible the application isn't malicious itself, but the information collected is being used for malicious purposes. This means the application could come from a third-party source, or directly from Google Play or iTunes.

Another possibility is that the information is being recorded in a database that has been left available to the public online (e.g. a poorly configured MongoDB instance) and criminals are abusing the stored data.

Either way, the Tredyffrin police department reminds drivers that citations such as this wouldn't be delivered by their agency. Drivers who receive such a notification should ignore it.

At this time, it isn't clear if drivers outside of Tredyffrin, Pennsylvania have received similar notifications.

"Many consumers will readily dismiss the possibility that someone would care about their location data, but this is a prime example of how this seemingly low value data can play into a larger attack," said Craig Young, a cybersecurity researcher for Tripwire.

"While a fake speeding ticket email might ordinarily be recognized as fake and ignored, including a persons name along with a road they regularly drive immediately gives authenticity to the scam making it far more likely that the attack will succeed. Social engineering is one of the most fundamental tools in the hacking toolkit and every hacker knows that realism is key in these efforts."
For months last year, rumors around Fairfield had General Electric not only leaving town and taking hundreds of jobs but donating its 66-acre campus to Sacred Heart University, denying the town an annual $1.8 million in property taxes.

But while GE is in fact leaving, it is the other local Catholic institute of higher learning, Fairfield University, that could have a presence on GEs campus in the future  and, just as importantly, the property would likely stay on the tax rolls.

Fairfield University announced Monday it has entered into an exclusive agreement with Kleban Properties, a locally based real-estate investment and development company that has expressed interest in buying the GE property. The agreement would allow the university to work with Kleban on the transformation and development of a high-tech hub on the site, with a variety of educational components including an executive education center.

We couldnt be more excited about the potential development of this property for Fairfield University, the town of Fairfield and the surrounding communities, said university President Jeffrey P. von Arx in a statement.

But its all contingent on Kleban purchasing the property, and theres no indication an agreement is close.

Mark Barnhart, the town of Fairfields director of economic development, said GE is in the early stages of selling the property, the proceeds from which will go toward building a new headquarters in Boston. GE in January announced the move after 42 years in Fairfield, and is also selling its Rockefeller Center property in New York City.

They certainly want to maximize their return on the property, but I dont think theyre anywhere close to making a deal, Barnhart said.

He said there are likely other parties interested in buying the Fairfield land, though none have come forward publicly.

Barnhart said reports about a donation to Sacred Heart were nothing more than rumors. That was more speculation than anything based on actual facts, he said.

If Kleban were to acquire the property, it would likely lease space to Fairfield U., keeping the land in private ownership and subject to local property taxes. GEs headquarters was assessed last year at $76.5 million, making it the largest property-tax payer in town. Based on a mill rate of 24.4, its tax bill to the town was about $1.8 million.

Kleban and Fairfield University have worked together on a number of projects, including the downtown business accelerator, and the company has been involved in the Dolan Business Schools entrepreneurial programs for many years.

The accelerator has seen success with start-up businesses including the student-created SoccerGrlProbs.

Kleban Properties is pleased to be working with a leading institution like Fairfield, said Ken Kleban, president of Kleban Properties, in a statement. They are a top-notch institution that will support the creation of jobs and the pursuit of technology and education.

Kleban also owns the downtown property that includes Fairfield U.s campus bookstore in the former Borders.

For a number of years, Fairfield University and Kleban Properties have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship and a shared dedication to the promotion and development of Fairfield and Fairfield County, the university said in a statement. As we expand our university programming, including health studies, were excited to work with Kleban Properties on a variety of innovative initiatives that will benefit our students and the surrounding communities.

Sacred Heart, whose main campus is a short hop from GEs 3135 Easton Turnpike address, also has close ties to the company, with its former CEO the namesake for the schools Jack Welch College of Business. In 2006, Welch donated $5 million to the university, at the time the largest gift ever to the institution.

hbailey@ctpost.com; 203-330-6233; @hughsbailey
When Belinda Santana visited her in-laws in Brazil last month, the mosquito-borne virus Zika was constantly in the back of her mind. The country is one of more than 30 in which the illness has been rampant, so the New Fairfield resident was vigilant about applying mosquito repellent and protecting herself and her young son.

Also vexing her was the question of when she might be able to try to get pregnant again. Zika has been linked to birth defects and developmental problems in children born to infected mothers, and Santana wondered if visiting a Zika-affected country meant she had to delay trying for a second child. She couldnt get a clear answer, and the answer she did find was not encouraging.

Someone showed me an article saying that, if someone is exposed to Zika, the recommendation was that they wait two years, before trying to conceive, Santana said. Thats a long time. It was difficult to wrap my head around it.

She was relieved to learn she wouldnt have to wait that long. Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued guidelines advising that women wait at least eight weeks after contracting the virus, and that men wait at least six months. The CDC also advises that both men and women who were possibly exposed to Zika  perhaps to during a visit to a country where the illness is widespread  but who havent developed any symptoms, wait eight weeks before trying to conceive.

More Information Zika and pregnancy Here are the new guideline about Zika virus and conception from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Women who have Zika virus should wait at least eight weeks after symptom onset to attempt conception. Men with Zika virus should wait at least six months after symptom onset to attempt conception. Women and men with possible exposure to Zika virus, but without clinical illness consistent with Zika virus, should wait at least eight weeks after exposure to attempt conception. Possible exposure to Zika virus is defined as travel to or residence in an area of active Zika transmission, or unprotected sex with a man who traveled to or resided in an area of active transmission. See More Collapse

The recommendation has brought peace of mind to local doctors trying to advise their patients, and to families trying to conceive. To Santana, this new information is great. Thats definitely more of a relief. I was definitely concerned, and I didnt know what (possible exposure to Zika) was going to mean for our future.

Confusion over conception

Since last May, the Zika virus has swept through Brazil and more than 30 other countries, most of them in Central and South America. There also have been more than 250 cases of Zika in 34 of the United States and the District of Columbia. The majority were travel-related, but at least six were sexually transmitted.

Earlier this month, the state Department of Public Health confirmed that the first case of Zika had been detected in Connecticut, in a person 60 to 69 years of age who had traveled to a country in South America where Zika is prevalent. The person is recovering.

Doctors have said its likely more Connecticut residents will test positive for the illness, so the more information available about Zika, the better.

The outbreak in El Salvador had caused the government there to urge women not to get pregnant for two years, and several other countries issued similar warnings. Until recently, the U.S. didnt have a concrete answer for couples wondering whether possible Zika exposure could derail pregnancy plans.

Until the CDC issued its guidelines, doctors were resigned to making educated guesses.

There was a wide variety of recommendations, said Michael Parry, director of infectious diseases at Stamford Hospital. Nobody was very clear.

Conservative recommendations

Dr. Robert Stiller, director of maternal fetal medicine at Bridgeport Hospital said the CDCs guidelines are an enormous help.

Its good that we can be consistent in our recommendations now, he said. This adds to our body of knowledge.

The CDC recommendations are fairly conservative, as Zika typically remains in the blood of an infected person for a week, and can take about two weeks after exposure to develop. It stays in semen for up to two months.

The CDC is being very cautious, and I think thats appropriate, until we know more, Stiller said.

Another encouraging piece of information  specifically for couples considering treatment for infertility  is that there have been no reports of Zika in donated eggs or semen, said Dr. Diana Adams, a maternal fetal medicine specialist with Greenwich Hospital. She echoed the other doctors sentiments that the new CDC recommendations offer some comfort and direction for patients.

Its very helpful for people who are trying to plan to have a family, Adams said.
BRIDGEPORT - A 20-year-veteran of the citys police force has been arrested for allegedly threatening to shoot his family.

Officer Jose Sepulveda, 52, was charged Saturday with first-degree threatening, first-degree criminal mischief and second-degree breach of peace. He was released on a promise to appear in court.
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Emerson Cheney has survived drug addiction, an abusive relationship, years of cutting and burning himself, and multiple suicide attempts.

Now a student at Tunxis Community College, Cheney, 22, recalls how he struggled as a teenager with rejection by friends, school administrators and even doctors, after he came out as transgender.

Advocates for LGBT youth say that Cheneys story is all too common  rejection often pushes young people to risky behaviors that result in health challenges.

For LGBT youth, finding health care professionals who can fully address their medical and psychological needs at a critical time in their psychosocial development can be difficult. Several recent studies have highlighted discrimination and mistreatment of sexual and gender minority individuals seeking health care.

In Connecticut, a 2008 study that surveyed pediatricians to examine health barriers among LGBT adolescents found that 31 percent of doctors expressed reservations about discussing sexual orientation or gender with patients. A decade earlier, a Washington, D.C., study found that 90 percent of pediatricians reported such reservations.

Despite progress, the 2008 Connecticut study identified several areas of concern, including a lack of visual cues posters, stickers, etc.  in most pediatric offices that would identify them as safe zones for patients to discuss sexual orientation or gender.

A national Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund survey found that almost 8 percent of lesbian, gay and bisexual respondents, and 27 percent of transgender and gender-nonconforming respondents, reported being denied health care because of their identity or orientation. Eleven percent reported that providers refused to touch them or used excessive precautions.

A July 2015 study led by University of Washington researchers found widespread preferences among heterosexual health care provides for straight patients over lesbian and gay people. A separate study last year found that more than a third of female-to-male transgender adults surveyed reported being mistreated in a doctors office or hospital. Twenty-eight percent said theyd been denied equal treatment, and about 32 percent reported verbal harassment.

Ive had a couple of endocrinologists and specialists who werent really accepting, even though they deal with this type of thing more often, Cheney said. One doctor refused to recognize him as transgender and said that he shouldnt waste his money on transitioning, he recalled.

I know who I am, Cheney said.

Health risks, family acceptance

Dr. Lawrence DAngelo of the Childrens National Center Pride Clinic in Washington, D.C., said that LGBT youth often do not receive the full complement of health services they need.

A 2015 report by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that, like their adult counterparts, youth who identify as sexual and/or gender minorities experience higher rates of mental illness, substance abuse and violence as compared to the general population. LGBT youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual youth, and three times more likely to report ever being raped.

In addition, studies have found that lesbian and bisexual women report poorer overall physical health and higher rates of asthma, urinary tract infections, and Hepatitis B and C than heterosexual women. Similarly, gay and bisexual men report more cancer diagnoses and lower survival rates and higher rates of cardiovascular disease and risk factors than heterosexual men.

Health risks for LGBT youth are heightened because they are more likely than their peers to become homeless. A 2012 national survey found that 40 percent of the youth homeless population is LGBT, with the majority reporting that they are on the streets because of family rejection.

If you get into the whole homeless piece of this  their priority is to find a place to sleep at night, said Linda Estabrook, executive director of the Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective. There are people that trade their bodies for a place to stay, and that brings with it all kinds of unsafe health situations, whether its STDs or HIV.

At the Kids in Crisis youth shelter in Greenwich, LGBT and questioning teens often seek shelter because of family rejection or conflict, said Kimberly Wolfson-Lisack, clinical director.

Wolfson-Lisack recalled a 16-year-old who came to the shelter after shed told her parents that she was in love with a girl. Her family disapproved of the relationship on religious grounds and didnt want their daughter moving in with a relative who was more accepting.

Youre going to lose your kid, Wolfson-Lisack told the girls parents, saying she believed the girl would commit suicide unless she had a safe, accepting environment.

Ultimately, the parents allowed their daughter to move in with the relative.

I was moved to tears, Wolfson-Lisack recalled. They did the best that they could.

Parental support is critical in helping a child get good medical care, experts say. After Cheney came out, his mom, Judy Conrad, attended support group meetings to try to learn which doctors and insurance plans would support her son.

Emerson had an experience with an endocrinologist who misgendered him. We thought he was in-the-know and would be respectful, said Conrad, who signs her emails Proud Mom Of Emerson.

If families are supportive, kids are able to get care differently, said Robin McHaelen, executive director of True Colors, a Hartford group serving LGBT youth.

Tony Ferraiolo, who runs groups for transgender youth in the New Haven area, agrees.

The kids walk with their heads up a little higher, he said. Youre setting the tone for your child to only be around people who accept and honor them.

Training doctors, clinicians

Ferraiolo trains clinicians on ways to care for transgender youth, saying providers must acknowledge the harsh reality of a transgender person going into a health center.

They may be trans-friendly, but theyre not trans-educated, said Ferraiolo, who is a transgender man.

He said that providers sometimes ask inappropriate curiosity questions. One doctor asked him how he had sex, he recalled, at a visit in which Ferraiolo was seeking care for an ailment that had nothing to do with sexual function.

Ferraiolo consults with the newly opened Yale Gender Clinic, the second clinic in the state to help young people transitioning. The first clinic is located at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center.

Dr. Susan Boulware, a pediatric endocrinologist, affiliated with the Yale clinic, said that the facility opened in response to a need for more transition care.

The medical part is not difficult, she said, but meeting the social and emotional needs of transgender youth is complicated. Many teens are uncomfortable having physical exams, for example, and that discomfort can be heightened for trans youth, Boulware said.

Names and pronouns are also important. At the Yale clinic, staff members have been trained to use a patients preferred name and pronoun. Boulware is working to ensure that electronic health records note a patients name and gender even before a legal name change.

Advocates acknowledge that it can be challenging for health care clinicians to respond to the range of sexual and gender identities. In Connecticut, 8 percent of high school students identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual, according to health data. There are no reliable statistics, state or national, on the size of the transgender or gender-nonconforming populations.

More teens are identifying as mostly straight and bicurious or placing themselves somewhere on a gender spectrum that isnt rigidly male or female, according to Lori Davidson of PFLAGs Hartford branch. PFLAG, which stands for Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbian and Gays, is a national organization for the LGBTQ community.

Ferraiolo emphasizes that most transgender youth do not want to be defined as being just trans, but instead want to be seen as scholars, athletes and multi-dimensional individuals.

In college, Cheney volunteers with True Colors. He has switched his major to human services because he wants to build a career helping youth.

A lot of times, kids just need someone to talk to, someone to direct them, Cheney said.

This story was reported under a partnership with the Connecticut Health I-Team (www.c-hit.org)
Facing child endangerment charges for allegedly bathing naked with a 5-year-old boy, the longtime treasurer of the Connecticut Republicans resigned from his elected post and paid position with the party Monday.

Gary Schaffrick, 52, relinquished his post after a warrant containing the lurid details of his March 6 arrest in his home city of Bristol was unsealed.

Schaffricks resignation was announced in an email to party leaders Monday afternoon by state GOP Chairman J.R. Romano.

This is an ongoing court case. I just dont feel its appropriate for me to comment on, Romano told Hearst Connecticut Media.

Schaffricks Bristol-based lawyer, Jodi Zils Gagne, did not respond to a request for comment Monday, but told the Bristol Press that her client plans to plead not guilty. Schaffrick remains free on $25,000 bond until his next court appearance, which is scheduled for April 4.

Romanos email skirted the details of Schaffricks being charged with one count of risk of injury/impairing the morals of a minor, which is a felony.

In light of recent allegations, Gary Schaffrick has offered his resignation as treasurer of Connecticut Republican State Central Committee so that the party can move forward without the shadow of looming questions, Romano wrote. Thank you for your continued support during this difficult time.

GOP sources say that the unsealing of the warrant, first obtained by the Bristol Press, was the tipping point. In the police report, investigators say that Schaffrick openly bragged to relatives about how much he enjoyed bath time with a 5-year-old victim during sleepovers at Schafficks residence. Schaffrick took baths with the boy and put him in his lap while both were nude, according to the warrant, which said the two sometimes shared a bed.

Everybodys been talking about it, said a GOP source, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitive nature of the case.

In addition to serving as elected treasurer, Schaffrick is a paid employee of the party and earns about $10,000 a year helping the party leaders with logistics and record keeping.

He also serves on the Republican State Central Committee, the 72-member governing body of the party. The groups next meeting is in April. Romanos email to party members made no mention of Schaffricks status on the committee.

The charge of risk of injury to a minor covers a range of offenses, from supplying a child with alcohol, cigarettes or pornographic material to inappropriate sexual contact.

The latter carries a minimum penalty of five years in prison for cases involving minors under the age of 13.

neil.vigdor@scni.com; 203-625-4436; http://twitter.com/gettinviggy
Previously, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not hesitated to make his preferences known regarding American presidential elections.

In this years campaign, Bibis party of choice features two candidates: Donald Trump, who emphatically supports torture, and Ted Cruz, who regularly advocates carpet bombing in dealing with ISIS and other American enemies.

Since Israel has by public policy renounced torture and carpet bombing, Mr. Netanyahu has a chance to be a true statesman. Perhaps, in this election cycle, instead of advising the American public on ideology, he could advise the party he has supported on strategy and morality.

Norman L. Bender

Woodbridge
This letter is in response to a letter written by Will Duchon.

He got it half right. Duchon states there is a misguided disgust with Washington and a disintegration of our representative government. On that he is correct, but this disgust is not misguided.

That disgust is guided by a lack of ability and a lack of faith. The lack of ability of our elected representatives to adhere to the Constitution, and a lack of faith that any of them will keep their word.

I've always heard that liberal progressive Democrats, such as Mr. Duchon, hate name calling. Yet, that is exactly what Mr. Duchon resorts to.

He calls Donald Trump a megalomaniacal bigot. He calls former President George W. Bush a war criminal and he calls the people who vote for Donald Trump brainwashed. Another fine example of liberal progressive democrat ideology.

Duchon stated that Donald Trump has zero political experience. Well, Mr. Duchon, that is exactly what a good portion of America wants: non-politicians representing them, people who are not beholden to a political party and people who will follow the Constitution, not work around it.

Duchon states that Donald Trump representing the United States would be an embarrassment. Dear Mr. Duchon, what do you think Barack Obama is?

J.. Melita

Milford
Fidel Castro to Obama: We dont need any presents from you

Cuban Revolution leader Fidel Castro responded Monday to US President Barack Obama's historic trip to the island with a long, bristling letter recounting the history of US aggression against Cuba, writing that "we don't need the empire to give us any presents."

The letter titled "Brother Obama" was Castro's first response to the president's three-day visit last week, in which the American president said he had come to bury the two countries' history of Cold War hostility. Obama did not meet with the 89-year-old Castro on the trip but met several times with his 84-year-old brother Raul, the current Cuban president.

Castro, who led Cuba for decades before handing power to his brother in 2008, was legendary for his hours-long, all-encompassing speeches. His letter reflects that style, presenting a sharp contrast with Obama's tightly focused speech in Havana.

Castro goes over crucial sections of Obama's speech line by line. Then, he returns to a review of a half-century of US aggression against Cuba. Those events include the embargo against the island; the 1961 Bay of Pigs attack and the 1976 bombing of a Cuban airliner backed by exiles who took refuge in the US.

"No one should pretend that the people of this noble and selfless country will renounce its glory and its rights," Fidel Castro wrote. "We are capable of producing the food and material wealth that we need with work and intelligence of our people."
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.
Leesburg Electric: With prices soaring, late fees are being waived

Prices are up, so Leesburg Electric has decided that, as of Oct. 1, late fees will be waived.
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Newton-John has never commented on the news that McDermott is alive, while his ex-wife has publicly stated she is convinced he is dead

Investigators found evidence he was alive in January 2009, and McDermott had a letter sent on his behalf a few weeks later

The Coast Guard launched a massive search after he was reported missing with no luck and declared him 'most likely drowned' in November 2008

He had recently filed for bankruptcy over unpaid child support and other debts before faking his disappearance

McDermott mysteriously vanished during an overnight fishing trip off the coast of San Pedro, California

Olivia Newton-John's ex Patrick McDermott is reportedly living in rural Mexico with a German lover ten years after faking his own

New Idea reports that Chloe Lattanzi has opened up about her mother's agony over new claims

She has never publicly addressed rumours that her missing lover Patrick McDermott is alive and well.

However, New Idea reports that Olivia Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lattanzi has opened up to the magazine about her mother's agony, saying she said she 'can't believe he could really be alive and well after so long.'

The 30-year-old is said to have told the publication that her 67-year-old mother had been left devastated following fresh allegations which emerged last week which claimed that her missing lover is living in rural Mexico with a German lover ten years after faking his own disappearance.

'It's really devastating. It's been difficult for us,' she explained, adding: 'It's hard, we lost someone.'

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Candid: New Idea reports that Olivia Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lattanzi has opened up about her mother's agony regarding claims that former boyfriend Patrick McDermott is alive and well and living in Mexico

Chloe was just 11-years-old when McDermott disappeared.

The publication reports that Chloe and her mother are trying to put on a brave face amid the new reports.

'To have the heartache of this brought up again has been tough,' adding: 'Chloe and Olivia just want to put it behind them.'

New claims: More than a decade after his mysterious disappearance investigators have claimed Patrick McDermott, former partner of Newton-John is living in Mexico with a new girlfriend

More than a decade after his mysterious disappearance investigators claim the former partner of Newton-John has been found alive and well in rural Mexico - where he lives with his new girlfriend.

The and the Australian star had been dating for nine years when he vanished in June 2005 while on an overnight fishing trip off the coast of San Pedro, California.

The Coast Guard launched an exhaustive search of the area in hopes of finding his body but had no luck and in November 2008 declared McDermott 'most likely drowned.

Two months later, investigators revealed that McDermott had faked his own disappearance and was alive and well in Mexico.

Long journey: After disappearing in June 2005, McDermott is believed to have made his way to Sayulita (map above) according to an investigator who located the missing man after noticing there were frequent visits to a website tracking McDermott's whereabouts on IP addresses in this area

Weekly magazine Woman's Day claims that fresh evidence confirms previous reports that McDermott is living in Mexico, having settled down with a European girlfriend.

Investigator John Nazarian told the publication: 'It's rumored he was with a German national. I spoke to people there. The girl he was travelling with was described as having a German accent.'

He then added; 'To come up with the conclusion that he fell off the boat, and allegedly no-one saw him fall off the boat, is the most preposterous thing I've ever heard in my life.'

McDermott was 48 at the time he went missing from the fishing boat Freedom, which had set off from San Pedro Marina for a fishing expedition on June 30th, 2005.

None of the 22 passengers saw McDermott go overboard during the trip, and he was not reported missing until a week later when Newton-John contacted authorities after he failed to show up for a family gathering.

Newton-John had been in the middle of a promotional tour in Australia when McDermott vanished from the boat which is why it took her so long to realize he had gone missing.

Mystery: McDermott, who was 48 at the time he went missing, was one off 22 passengers aboard fishing boat Freedom when he set off from San Pedro Marina for a fishing expedition on June 30th, 2005

Investigators also revealed that McDermott disappeared shortly after filing for bankruptcy, having unpaid debts totaling more than $30,000 at the time.

Among these debts was $8,000 in child support owed to his ex-wife Yvette Nipar for their son, Chance.

The investigators also discovered that McDermott - who is of Korean descent - secured a second passport in his birth name Patrick Kim and withdrew life savings from two bank accounts just before vanishing.

Newton-John's report that McDermott was missing prompted a furious search of the California coast in the weeks after, with officials having no luck in finding any clues as to what happened at sea.

The complete lack of eyewitnesses at the time McDermott went over also made it difficult to determine if the incident was a suicide or accidental death.

In the end, both theories proved to be false.

Mystery: Olivia (pictured shortly after McDermott's disappearance) enjoyed an on-off romance with the former cameraman

A separate investigation into McDermott's disappearance was launched by Texas-based private investigator Philip Klein in 2009, with his findings later revealed in a 2010 episode of Dateline.

Klein also wrote a book in 2012 that detailed his findings, Lost at Sea: The Hunt for Patrick McDermott.

It was just weeks into Klein's investigation in February 2009 that an individual writing on behalf of McDermott faxed a letter confirming he was alive and asking that he be left alone.

It reportedly said: Pat has asked that I portray to you his innocence. Pat has committed no crime. Pat simply wishes to be left alone.

Let him live his life in peace and harmony. He is safe and has started anew again in a new place both physically and mentally. Stop this search immediately.

Klein then worked to prove the letter's authenticity, and deemed it to be 'credible' a few months later in April of that year.

He later revealed that he had also been in communication with McDermott's lawyer, saying at a press conference; 'His attorney called from Mexico City and said that Patrick didn't want to be bothered.

'He hadn't faked anything. He just wanted to get away from the drama.'

Close friends: Newton-John has remained close with McDermott's ex-wife and the mother of his son, Yvette Nipar, who has publicly stated that she believes her former husband is dead

The letter confirming that McDermott was alive came as Klein had begun his research on the ground in Mexico, which ultimately resulted in over 20 sightings of the missing man in Central America.

Klein also claimed to have tracked him to the remote town Sayulita - a favorite with drifters - where he 'worked as a deck hand.'

He made this discovery after noticing that IP addresses in this area frequently logged on to a website that was created by investigators to track McDermott's whereabouts.

One person who does not believe that McDermott is alive however is his former wife Nipar.

The actress, who has appeared on shows including Melrose Place, 21 Jump Street and CSI Miami, married McDermott in March 1992, with the pair getting a divorce soon after in June 1993 while Nipar was pregnant with their son.

Old times: Chloe Lattanzi with mother Olivia and her then boyfriend Patrick McDermott in February 2001

Given the brief marriage and the fact that her ex owed her thousands of dollars at the time he died, it was a bit of a surprise when it was revealed in 2012 that Nipar had personally written Amazon's Jeff Bezos demanding that he stop promoting Klein's book about her husband.

She labeled Klein a 'serial liar' in her letter, while also pleading with the billionaire to think about her child.

'My son has been through enough emotional torment over this. He has yet to be able to move on due to Mr Klein's continual effort to keep him in the public eye,' wrote Nipar.

McDermott's death did provide one silver lining for his son however in the form of his $100,000 life insurance policy, which Chance was the sole beneficiary of at the time.

It has never been revealed if Chance received the money immediately after the disappearance his father of had to wait until 2008 when McDermott was declared 'likely drowned' by the Coast Guard.

Unlike Nipar, Newton-John has not shared her feelings on McDermott's disappearance or eventually discovery, refusing to comment on the situation.

She has also refused to speculate on whether her ex is living or dead, though she did respond to the possibility he could be alive in an interview one year after he went missing by saying; 'We'd be thrilled if it was true.'

Moving on: Olivia has since gone on to marry John Easterling - the founder and president of natural remedy firm Amazon Herb Company

At the time that theory was based on the fact that the Coast Guard had yet to find his body, and was three years before investigators first released their findings about McDermott's new life in Mexico.

She has since gone on to find love again, marrying John Easterling, the founder and president of natural remedy firm Amazon Herb Company, in 2008.

The pair exchanged vows during a private Incan ceremony in Peru, only telling Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lazzani about the nuptials.

Shortly after she sold the home in Malibu, California she had lived in with McDermott during their relationship.

She remains close with Nipar however, who posted a throwback photo of the two together taken after McDermott's disappearance on her Instagram account last year.

In the caption she called Newton-John a '#FriendForLife.'

Daily Mail Australia have contacted Olivia Newton-John, John Nazarian and Philip Klein's representatives for further comment.
Whenever you hear blustering peers Lord (Neil) Kinnock and Lord (Chris) Patten scaremonger about Brexit, you should bear in mind their juicy Brussels pensions depend on them flying the flag for the European superstate.

For the fact is that these former European commissioners benefit from gold-plated and index-linked pensions that are paid on condition that they maintain a duty of loyalty to the EU.

Under Brussels rules, they can be stripped of them if they are critical.

However, whenever publicly discussing Junes referendum, surely these men have a moral duty to mention that they have a personal financial interest at stake.

You should bear in mind Nick Kinnock's juicy Brussels pensions depends on him flying the flag for the European superstate, says Andrew Pierce

Former European commissioners like Chris Patten benefit from gold-plated and index-linked pensions that are paid on condition that they maintain a duty of loyalty to the EU

Not surprisingly, this issue has been highlighted by more than 20 Brexiteers in the Lords  including former Tory Chancellor Lord (Nigel) Lawson, and Lord (Michael) Dobbs, who wrote the political thriller House Of Cards.

In a letter to the Lords Privileges and Conduct Committee (which decides on such matters) they say they are not impugning the integrity of these Brussels cheerleaders but think it right that members of the public should be entitled to be aware of the full facts, including that a member is in receipt of an EU pension, when weighing the words expressed on an EU-related matter.

The pensions enjoyed by Patten and Kinnock are worth around 30,000 a year.

Similar pensions are due for Lord (Peter) Mandelson and Baroness (Cathy) Ashton  a former CND-supporting health service manager appointed to Brussels by Gordon Brown  when they become of pensionable age.

'Core Group support' for Corbyn

Corbyn loyalist Richard Burgon, one of the few Labour MPs who genuinely supports the party leader, is doing his best to rally behind his embattled boss.

The shadow City minister is due to speak at Leeds University next month and outline the best way to defend Corbyn from a possible Blairite coup. On the same panel will be Dave Nellist, once a Labour MP but expelled from the party for being part of the hard-left Militant Tendency which infiltrated Labour in the Eighties.

Guess how Burgon is described on a much-mocked list compiled by Corbyn allies which ranks every Labour MP by their loyalty to the leadership. Yes! Burgon is listed as Core group (least hostile).

JOKE OF THE WEEK Is Stephen Crabbs move from the Welsh Office to be the new Secretary of State for Works and Pensions  replacing Iain Duncan Smith  a sideways shuffle? Advertisement

David Dimbleby, doyen of the BBCs election night coverage, is fighting back after Corporation bosses said that his younger colleague, Huw Edwards, will anchor its 2020 General Election results show.

Dimbleby, who has hosted nine such programmes (his debut being Thatchers first victory in 1979) mischievously suggests that despite the law which means the next election should be in 2020, political circumstances may change.

The 77-year-old says: What about the general election of 2019 or 2018? If George Osborne was elected the next Tory party leader, he might be advised to abolish the fixed five-year Parliament Act and call an early election.

'Laziest' MP speaks out

Tory MP Royston Smith asked last week what action was being taken to improve the productivity of House [of Commons] staff. This is a trickly area for the Member for Southampton Itchen  hes been described as Parliaments laziest MP after making just five speeches and asking two questions since his election last May. For his part, Smith explains his priority is constituency work and that its hard to catch the Speakers eye in debates.

He might find it harder still to catch a waiters eye next time hes in the Commons tea room.

MP Andrew Percy, a member of the Conservative Friends of Israel, spent 135 on Hebrew lessons. But why has he reclaimed the money on expenses rather than paying for it himself?

Nick Robinson angered Brown with 'cutting' remark

Asked to relate his most tricky run-in with a politician, the BBCs Nick Robinson chose an encounter with Gordon Brown. He told Suffolk magazine he had asked Brown if he was being straight with the electorate about the need to cut public spending? Robinson says Brown was furious about the use of the word cut and said he would never speak to me again.
Carrie Fisher of Star Wars claim that her father, Hollywood star Eddie Fisher, had an affair with Princess Margaret didnt make it into ITVs Our Queen at 90  a wise editing decision. 1, The Queen doesnt enjoy being reminded of her sisters indiscretions; 2, ITV prefers to retain its favoured-broadcaster royal status; and 3, Carrie might be exaggerating.

My court source says: The only Fisher I ever heard Margaret linked with was Geoffrey Fisher, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, who scolded her regularly for not behaving herself. Margaret was a flirt, not a tart. Not everyone she flirted with was invited into her bed.

Carrie Fisher claimed her father, singer Eddie Fisher had had an affair with the late Princess Margaret

Court sources have dismissed the claim that Hollywood legend Eddie (left) slept with the Princess (right)

Despite being naturalised British, Lebanese-born London lawyer Amal Clooney, 38, is poking her nose into the bitter US presidential race with a fund-raising dinner at which two places at the table with Hillary and Bill Clinton and the Clooneys will cost $353,000 (250,000).

Hillarys Democrat rival, socialist Bernie Sanders, calls this obscene. Be that as it may, Amal is becoming a bigger name than George. His latest film, Hail, Caesar!, pictured, is an unfunny stinker, but shes increasingly in demand in the real world.

Tom Hiddleston achieves premature star status as The Night Manager but the 20million BBC1 adaptation of a John le Carre story wont have impressed all readers of the spy writers books. As an adviser on the TV series, did le Carre sanction the line, Nothing quite as pretty as napalm at night, uttered by balding Hugh Laurie as the cartoonishly evil arms dealer Richard Roper after a munitions demonstration?

In the 1979 film about the Vietnam War, Apocalypse Now, gung-ho Lt Col Bill Kilgore (Robert Duvall) enthuses, after a US air strike, I love the smell of napalm in the morning. Imitation might be the sincerest form of flattery but youd expect better for 20million.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery: Did Night Manager writers pinch a line from Apocalypse Now for Hugh Laurie's character?

Political pariah Tony Blair has embarked on a campaign of selective exposure in the media, twice obtaining soft-soap interviews with Nick Robinson on Radio 4s Today show as well as offering articles to newspapers about international affairs like a respected elder statesman.

Over Easter, he boasted on Today about his historic and momentous achievements over 1998s Good Friday Agreement, which some see as a sell-out to terrorists. A fortnight earlier, too-chummy-by-half Robinson had him rhapsodising about EU membership, saying it was time to exert a bit of passion. Robinson commented oleaginously: You just did! Wheres John Humphrys when hes needed?

TV personality Piers Morgan taunts tycoon Lord Sugar on Twitter: You sound so jealous of Donald (Trump). Is that because hes ten times richer and a far better Apprentice host? Trump insists hes worth over 8billion while his net worth is estimated by US media to be 3.2billion. Sugars is put at 1.4billion. Trump, who hosted The Apprentice in the US, inherited a multi-million-dollar property fortune. Sugar left school aged 16 and sold car aerials out of a van hed bought with 50 savings. Shouldnt man-o-the-people Piers prefer homegrown Sugarplum?
Believe me, I love the NHS. But it is in desperate financial straits and if we want future generations to enjoy its safety net then we need to find a solution, quickly.

That is why I find Jeremy Hunts assertion yesterday that the NHS would suffer if we leave the EU to be so wrong-headed. On the contrary, I think leaving is the only way to save the NHS.

For months I have been undecided on the EU debate. But then I began investigating the impact that a Brexit would have on the NHS and became convinced that it is in the best interests of our healthcare system.

First, the money we spend on the EU would, in one fell swoop, sort out the financial difficulties faced by the NHS. The health service currently costs about 100billion a year to run and it faces a projected 30billion shortfall by 2020.

I find Jeremy Hunts assertion yesterday that the NHS would suffer if we leave the EU to be so wrong-headed. On the contrary, I think leaving is the only way to save the NHS

Attempts are being made to increase efficiency  for example, less reliance on hospitals, which are expensive, and more care in the community  through which it is believed about 22billion can be saved. But that still leaves a shortfall of at least 8billion a year. This will have to come from direct cuts to frontline services, which will devastate care.

Meanwhile, the current cost of the UKs membership of the EU is about 15billion a year. We receive some of that money back in the form of rebates, grants and subsides, to the tune of just over 7billion, but we are left with a net cost for EU membership of 8billion a year.

That is 8billion with which we could easily meet the NHS funding shortfall. In effect, by leaving the EU we can solve the NHS financial crisis without having to increase taxes or make cuts elsewhere.

I make no apology for prioritising the NHS in this way. Lets be frank  Id rather my tax was spent on British patients than given to the EU to support the Latvian film industry or expanding the Bulgarian metro.

The other reason leaving the EU would help the NHS can be summed up in one word: immigration. This is putting the NHS under immense strain. It simply wasnt designed to support untold numbers of people from multiple countries having ready access to its resource.

The current cost of the UKs membership of the EU is about 15billion a year. We receive some of that money back in the form of rebates, grants and subsides, to the tune of just over 7billion, but we are left with a net cost for EU membership of 8billion a year

Shockingly, in the past five years alone, a third of all NHS A&E doctors have moved abroad. Surely its better for us to put strategies in place to stop us haemorrhaging talent in this way?

Immigrants from the EU are more likely to have children than UK nationals, for example, meaning that they place more pressure on maternity services.

Britain is allowed to recoup costs for treating EU nationals on the NHS  but despite net immigration from the EU being at record levels, the amount we successfully claim back is falling. Hospitals recouped 49.7million last year, although they clawed back 50.3million the year before.

At the same time, the UK Government handed over 674million to European governments last year to pay for British citizens being treated while they were abroad. In other words, we play fair while our EU partners dont.

We simply cant trust our EU partners to consistently cough up the money they owe us. Tackling this would require hospitals to have whole departments sending out invoices for EU nationals on a scale that is just too unwieldy at the moment.

Part of the problem is that no other EU country operates a system quite like the NHS, entirely free at the point of access and entirely funded by taxpayers money. It is easily misused by those who can come here under EU free movement legislation, receive free healthcare, then return home.

The anti-Leave camp insists we need the EU to provide us with doctors and nurses. But this is entirely misleading.

It is true that the UK is more reliant on foreign doctors than any other major EU nation, with more than a third of the workforce coming from overseas. But this is a reason for us to invest properly in training  and retaining  enough doctors and nurses for our needs, rather than steal them from elsewhere.

Shockingly, in the past five years alone, a third of all NHS A&E doctors have moved abroad. Surely its better for us to put strategies in place to stop us haemorrhaging talent in this way?

Most of the doctors working here who qualified overseas are not from the EU anyway. There are as many doctors here from India alone as there are from all other EU countries put together, despite changes to immigration rules in 2010 that made it significantly more difficult for non-EU doctors.
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It has become a popular way of raising money, but the latest charity calendar comes with a heartwarming twist - as two of the models are babies with Downs Syndrome.

Eliza and Jorja steal the show in a line-up organised by a group of midwives in Leicestershire to celebrate children born with the condition and raise much-needed funds for the Downs Syndrome Association.

Eliza, who is eight months old, and 14-months-old Jorja were perfect models at the photo shoot for an awareness week for the condition.

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Jorja, 14 months (left) and Eliza, eight months (right), don tutus and floral headdresses for the Down's Syndrome Association charity calendar, which parents hope will break the taboo around the condition

'They are beautiful babies': Midwife Jo Stroud said she loved working with babies Eliza, left, and Jorja, right

Jo Proud, a midwife who runs Miracle in Progress, a pregnancy service and scanning clinic in Leicestershire, also took part in the shoot. She said: It was pretty nerve-wracking.

'As midwives, we are not exactly shy of the human body but taking your clothes off for a photograph was daunting.'

We were worrying about our stretch marks and tan lines and then you see Eliza and Jorja and those concerns are put into perspective. They are beautiful babies and it is fantastic to be able to raise awareness and funds for Downs Syndrome.

Julia Newton Winfield, who had Jorja when she was 43, said: She is absolutely amazing and by doing this picture we are saying Downs Syndrome shouldnt be a taboo or a hidden subject.

Jorja is a beautiful girl and we are proud of everything she is doing.

Julia, a dog-breeder from Markfield, Leicestershire, and her 46-year-old partner James, had been trying for a baby for two years and conceived naturally just five days before Julia was due to start an egg donation fertility course.

Jorja, left, and Eliza, right, were both born with the condition which two UK babies are born with every day

Julia, who is mum to Jorja, left, said she couldn't say the words 'Down's Syndrome' without bursting into tears for three months after her daughter's diagnosis, but now she couldn't be prouder of her 14-month-old daughter

I knew I was at risk being an older mother and for other health issues. I was told a baby would be a one in five million chance, she says.

A blood test said I had a one in 20 possibility of the baby being born with Downs Syndrome but I didn't have the amniocentesis test because of the chance of miscarriage.

As she was going to be a little miracle, I didn't mind what she came out with. She looked a bit different at birth but we thought that was because she was a month early and only weighed 5 lbs.

We got the diagnosis two days later and I didn't deal with it well. I adored her from the moment she was born and James was head over heels in love with her from the start but I couldnt say the words Downs Syndrome without bursting into tears for three months.

Midwife Jo Stroud, who took part in charity the shoot alongside Eliza and Jorja, said: 'As midwives, we are not exactly shy of the human body but taking your clothes off for a photograph was daunting'

Jorja is a beautiful girl and we are proud of everything she is doing, said her mum Julia (not pictured)

'I adored her from the moment she was born': But Jorja's mother said she struggled with the diagnosis at first

If we are fortunate enough to have a second child, I will have the test, not to give the option of termination but so that we can be prepared. We now have a great support network and have met friends we would not have ordinarily and the groups we are in contact with have been incredible.

At first I edited Jorjas pictures and showed only the best but after eight months I sensed people were trying to pluck up courage to ask if she was different so I put some photos on Facebook to say, yes, she has the extra chromosome.

'I was swamped with messages from people saying she was absolutely beautiful and lots said how their brother or cousin was Downs Syndrome and how lovely they were.

It was a great support and shows there is nothing to hide.

Julia, who is mum to Jorja, left, said she has been 'swamped' with messages of support from people online

Jorja, pictured, was born after Julia and her 46-year-old partner James, had been trying for a baby for two years. She was conceived naturally just five days before Julia was due to start an egg donation fertility course

Jorja had open-heart surgery in November to repair defective valves but bounced back quickly from the operation.

Julia added: The only thing holding Jorja back is us and we are not going to do that. I hope people see the photograph and think what a lovely girl she is and how proud we are of her.

Hannah Bramley also struggled with the birth of her third child, Eliza, who was born by caesarean section a month early after doctors detected a fluctuating heart rhythm.

The 28-year-old, from Shepshed, had declined testing for Downs Syndrome on all her children, boys Noah, three, and 23-month-old Joseph.

When the blood test results came back, I fell apart if Im honest, she said. It was hard to accept.

I didnt want to turn back the clock but you have so many expectations for your child when your pregnant; that they will grow up, go to university, get married have children of their own and you plan their lives before you have them and, all of a sudden, they appear to have gone.

Midwives pose in frilly polka dot bloomers for the calendar for the Down's SyndromeAssociation

Hannah Bramley (right, with daughter Eliza) also struggled with the birth of her daughter, who was born by cesarean section a month early after doctors detected a fluctuating heart rhythm

Jorja, left, and Eliza, right, join midwives stripping off in the name of charity for the Down's Syndrome calendar

I loved her but it took me a couple of months to get over that feeling. Now I can fully embrace what she has. Eliza is a beautiful little girl, so smiley and lovely and deserves to be in the limelight.

Everything she does, she works for. It took her about eight months to smile, everything she does is a milestone. Shes trying to sit up, she is working so hard and she doesnt let it hold her back. She is so determined to do everything, she is amazing.

The boys love her. She is their sister and Ive not had to explain anything about the condition to her because it doesnt matter to them. I think it is great for the world to see her as she is.

Two babies are born with Down's Syndrome every day in the UK which is caused by the chance presence of an extra chromosome in the babys cells.
A mother who ballooned to a size 22 after turning to takeaways following the death of her teenage son has dropped five dress sizes after vowing to get fit in his memory.

Sharon Wylde, 42, from Salford, Greater Manchester, was left bereft when Cameron, 14, was killed after being hit by a car in September 2012.

The mother-of-three, who tipped the scales at 15 stone, said she often couldn't bear to leave the house, smoked up to 80 cigarettes a day and turned to takeaways and junk food instead of cooking healthy meals.

Sharon Wylde, 42, above, was bereft when her fourteen-year-old son Cameron was killed after being hit by a car in September 2012. The mum-of-three from Salford, Greater Manchester, began living on takeaways and smoking 80 cigarettes a day - piling on the pounds and becoming a size 22

In less than three years, Sharon gained nearly four stone, and her unhealthy lifestyle and stress led to a number of severe seizures in which she fractured her cheekbone and eye socket.

Sharon was eventually admitted to hospital for eight weeks with pneumonia and pleurisy, and she finally decided to overhaul her unhealthy lifestyle - for fear that she would 'end up in the grave with him'.

The stay-at-home mother, who has been with her partner Paul Cash for 24 years, joined Slimming World in August last year, and coupled her healthy eating with intense gym classes. She now fits into a slender size 12.

In less than three years Sharon gained nearly four stone, left. Sharon decided to overhaul her unhealthy lifestyle - for fear that she would 'end up in the grave with (Cameron)'. The stay-at-home mum joined Slimming World in August last year, weighing in at more than 15 stone

Sharon, who is mum to Tom, 15, and Grace, four, said: 'When I lost Cameron I sank into the most horrendous grief. I had no love for myself'. Cameron, above, died after being hit by a car as he crossed a busy road near the family home. Sharon and her partner were on their way to a wedding when they heard about the accident

Sharon also quit smoking and is determined to live a healthy lifestyle in her son's memory.

Sharon, who is also mother to Tom, 15, and Grace, four, said: 'When I lost Cameron I sank into the most horrendous grief. I had no love for myself.

'It took all my time and energy just to get up and brush my teeth. I would sit in my pyjamas all day and not move. I was constantly tired and I felt worthless.

'I was in no fit state to cook so I would just order takeaways. I would smoke between 60 and 80 cigarettes a day and I was drinking too much. My partner Paul had to keep the ship afloat.

'I had always been a size 12 and never had to worry about watching my weight, but I put a stone on after Grace was born and Cameron died 10 months later. I just lost control after that.'

Eventually Sharon, who has been with her partner Paul Cash, above, for 24 years, started to couple her healthy eating with intense gym classes, and she now fits into a slender size 12. Above, Sharon with her family before Cameron's death in 2012. Left to right: Cameron, her daughter Grace, now four, partner Paul and son Tom, 15

The mother, above with Cameron, fell apart after his death. She said: 'I was in no fit state to cook so I would just order takeaways. I would smoke between 60 and 80 cigarettes a day and I was drinking too much. My partner Paul had to keep the ship afloat.' Now she has also quit smoking and is determined to live a healthy lifestyle

Cameron died after being hit by a car as he crossed a busy road near the family home.

Sharon and her partner were on their way to a wedding when they received a phone call from their babysitter to say that Cameron had been involved in an accident.

The couple rushed to Salford Hope Hospital, but the schoolboy was pronounced dead soon after.

Sharon said: 'I was expecting to arrive at hospital and see Cameron with his leg in a cast. I was expecting to say 'you little bugger, you've ruined my night,' but when we got there it was like a scene from Casualty. We knew they were working hard to keep him alive and he died soon after from multiple injuries.

'Cameron was a cheeky chappy, he was always up to mischief and he used to drive me up the wall. He was like any other teenage boy.'

Less than two years after Cameron's death Sharon was rushed to hospital after suffering multiple stress-related seizures.

The stress casued by Cameron's death and Sharon's unhealthy habits led to a number of severe seizures in which she fractured her cheekbone and eye socket, above. Sharon was eventually admitted to hospital for eight weeks with pneumonia and pleurisy, and she finally decided to overhaul her unhealthy lifestyle

Sharon said: 'I was seriously ill. My immune system was very low and I had pneumonia, pleurisy and a blood clot. I ended up having to stay in hospital for eight weeks.

'I had two black eyes from where I had fractured my cheekbone and eye socket. I felt awful.

'After a while I realised I had to get healthy for Tom and Grace. I just thought "this has got to stop". I thought I was going to end up in the grave with Cameron.'

Sharon eventually joined Slimming World and swapped takeaways for healthy home cooked meals, and Sharon now weighs a healthy 12st 3lb.

Less than two years after Cameron's death Sharon, above with partner Paul, was rushed to hospital after suffering multiple stress-related seizures. Sharon said: 'I was seriously ill. My immune system was very low and I had pneumonia, pleurisy and a blood clot. I ended up having to stay in hospital for eight weeks'

Sharon eventually joined Slimming World and swapped takeaways for healthy home cooked meals, and Sharon now weighs a healthy 12 stone 3lb. She said: 'I know Cameron would be so proud of me. I feel proud of myself. Losing Cameron was the hardest thing I have ever had to go through, but I am determined to stay fit'

Sharon said: 'Something just clicked. I knew I had to get healthy. At my first Slimming World class I stepped on the scales and I weighed 15st 6lb. It was a big shock, it is the heaviest I have ever been.

'In my first week I lost 4lb, and after a few months I joined a gym. At the time I couldn't even walk up the stairs without getting out of breath, but now I do 11 gym classes a week.

'I feel like a completely different person. I have lost a total of 64 inches off my body and I have even quit smoking.
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A series of stomach-churning photographs see models teetering dangerously close to the edge of New York City's tallest buildings.

The incredible pictures are part of a series called Beauty And NYC which sees the women lying on ledges and peering out at the surrounding skyline.

However, these models are not here to show off any clothing, with all pictured in next to nothing and some even posing nude.

Photographer Mar Shirasuna, from Japan, has been shooting New York for the past three years, and he estimates he has been on more than 150 rooftops in the process.

Mar first had the idea to photograph the models against the NYC skyline with the Empire State Building in the background after fans of his landscape shots kept asking to accompany him

Mar Shirasuna created the series Beauty And NYC as an antidote to the selfie generation capturing models against the epic skyline, with the Empire State Building in the background

A Japanese photographer has created stomach-churning pictures of models standing perilously close to the edge of New York rooftops

The idea behind the Beauty And NYC project came to Mar while he was looking for a new way to shoot the city.

Having posted photos of New York on social media, Mar's followers began asking if they could come with him to experience the amazing views.

By adding individuals to his images, Mar was looking to 'reinvent the selfie' - models, he thought, would make the images more beautiful, different and creative.

Over the past year, Mar has photographed more around 50 models, and he continues to receive requests every day from those wishing to be photographed by him.

Mar has travelled to 150 New York roof tops in search of the perfect view but he is determined that there is still more to be found

Most of the models wear underwear for their shoot but a few braver models have posed in the nude in the dramatic shots

The brave models have been pictured balancing against the outer side of safety fences, on the lips of roofs and some have even braved the snow in search for the perfect picture.

Each image is uploaded to Mar's Instagram account, which has more than 79,000 followers.

Mar said: 'Right now, we are living through the selfie epidemic, and when I brought some of these people onto the rooftop, they would start taking selfies.

In this dynamic shot a daring model poses in the yoga position while maintaining her balance on the edge of the building with the Empire State Building in the background

Mar uploads each of the stunning images to his Instagram account, which has more than 79,000 followers

'My goal for this project was to reinvent the selfie, recreate it and make it something more beautiful and more creative. So, I started taking pictures of beautiful women on the rooftops with my project.

'I like to pick buildings in locations where I know the view is going to be amazing.'

Although Mar has explored 150 roof tops in the city, he says he is confident that more views are to be found.

He continued: 'What fascinates me most about New York is that even after living here for 20 years, there's always a new view.

'Today I might find a view that I didn't know existed yesterday, and tomorrow I might find yet another view that I didn't even know existed today - that's the beauty of it.'

Over the past year, Mar has photographed more around 50 models, and he continues to receive requests every day from those wishing to be photographed by him
Despite being a cartoon character, she is something of beauty icon thanks to her bouncing curls, pillowy lips and hourglass curves.

Jessica Rabbit has inspired countless Halloween costumes and even painstaking bouts of plastic surgery. In fact, just last year supermodel Heidi Klum donned a bright red wig and spent nine hours in prosthetics to imitate the iconic character from the 1988 classic Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

And now New York-based beauty blogger Nikki French has demonstrated how you can get the look using just cosmetics in a 29-second tutorial.

New-York based beauty vlogger Nikki French has demonstrated how to transform into Jessica Rabbit

She begins by applying a thick white paste over her eyebrows before drawing on a pair of thin fake brows

The blogger shared the timelapse clip with her 298,000 Instagram followers on Saturday, writing: 'It's almost #Easter! My favourite kind of rabbit...'

The tutorial, which has been liked by more than 11,600 people, sees naturally-blonde Nikki donning a glossy red wig and plastering her fake with layers of make-up.

She begins by pasting over her eyebrows and drawing on a pair of higher, thinner fake brows.

Nikki then adds two generous dollops of dark purple eyeshadow a la Jessica, which she tops up with a heavy slick of liquid eyeliner.

Next, she coats her top and bottom lashes in thick black mascara and paints on a pair of bright red, heart-shaped lips.

The end result is startlingly similar to Ms Rabbit herself, and fans were suitably impressed.

She achieves the look by starting from scratch with her brows, before applying several layers of eyeshadow

Nikki then adds a dark line of liquid eyeliner before coating her top and bottom lashes with thick black mascara

Iconic: Countless people have imitated Disney character Jessica Rabbit, left, such as supermodel Heidi Klum, right, who spent nine hours in prosthetics ahead of her annual costume party in New York

Khalika Kadri wrote: 'This looks so awesome,' and fellow beauty bloggerSaba Hamid wrote: 'This is too cool.'

Marisa Cohen commented: 'It's so realistic it's scary.'

But it seems the dramatic look doesn't come cheap; Nikki used a Powder Room wig which can cost up to $1,100 (774) as well as a dizzying array of cosmetics including an eyeshadow palette, clay eyeliner, fake eyelashes, lipstick and gloss, contour cream kit, illuminator and blusher.

Nikki treats her followers to regular tutorials and often experiments with dramatic looks from rainbow eyelids to glittery brows.

Nikki used a Powder Room wig which can cost up to $1,100 (774) as well as a dizzying array of cosmetics including an eyeshadow palette, clay eyeliner, fake eyelashes, lipstick and gloss, contour kit and blusher
Last Thursday, Bristol shared a selfie taken by the proud dad during his visit, which sees him holding three-month-old Sailor in a baby carrier

Bristol's ex-fiance, Dakota Meyer, visited their daughter last week for the first time since they reached a custody agreement earlier this month

The 25-year-old took to Instagram on Sunday to share photos of her three-month-old daughter, her son Tripp and her brother Trig, both seven

Bristol Palin's dressed her daughter Sailor Grace in pale pink tulle in celebration of her first Easter on Sunday, just a week after the three-month-old's father Dakota Meyer traveled 3,600 miles to Alaska to spend time with his baby girl.

The 25-year-old took to Instagram on Sunday to post heartwarming family photos of herself posed with her daughter, as well as her seven-year-old son Tripp and her seven-year-old brother Trig, while they enjoyed the holiday together.

'Peanut's first Easter,' she captioned an adorable photo of Sailor sitting on her lap.

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Happy holiday: Brisol Palin dressed her daughter Sailor Grace in pink tulle to celebrate her first Easter

While Bristol's head is turned away, Sailor is looking right at the camera as she sits comfortably on her mother's legs, wearing a precious pink tulle skirt, matching bib, white tights, and a black headband with a bow on the top.

Another photo from the day sees Bristol with her arms around her Tripp, her son with her ex-fiance Levi Johnston, and her little brother, as they pose with their Easter baskets.

Unlike Sailor, the boys are more casually dressed in sneakers and sweatshirts, while Bristol dons a simple black dress topped with a light olive green coat.

Bristol's Easter celebration came just a week after her 27-year-old ex-fiance Dakota braved a brutal Alaska blizzard to travel from his Kentucky home to Anchorage to visit their daughter since they reached a custody agreement earlier this month.

Despite their bitter custody battle, it looks like the former couple have found a way to move past their differences, and the mother-of-two took to Instagram on Thursday evening to share an image of the Marine with their daughter during his first official visit to see the three-month-old.

Easter celebration: The 25-year-old also posed for photos with her seven-year-old son Tripp (left) and seven-year-old brother Trig (right) on Sunday

Doting dad: The mother-of-two took to Instagram last Thursday to shared this image of her ex-fiance Dakota Meyer with their daughter Sailor Grace during his first official visit with the little girl

Alongside the image, which was taken by Dakota and sees him standing in what appears to be a hotel hallway with Sailor strapped into a baby carrier on his chest, Bristol wrote: 'Too cute not to share.'

The first-time father spent time with Sailor Grace over four days of scheduled visits in Alaska, which is when his adorable mirror selfie appears to have been taken.

Dakota was seen proudly carrying his baby girl, bundled up warmly under a pink blanket in a car seat, and later gently rocking her to sleep in his arms. The new father had brought along an older woman, believed to be his aunt Cindy Meyer, to help on the first trip.

One hotel guest told Daily Mail Online he had seen Dakota carefully cradling his little girl in his arms by the lobby's fountain.

'He appeared to be trying to get the baby to sleep to the sound of the water,' the onlooker said.

Raising awareness: Bristol shared this photo of her brother Trig wearing a Donald Trump campaign hat last Monday in celebration of World Down Syndrome Day

Support: Bristol's mother Sarah has been a firm supporter of Trump's during his presidential campaign. The pair are pictured together at a rally in Iowa in January

'I smiled at him as I came out of the elevator and he asked me, "Is she asleep?" It was a really sweet scene.'

Dakota appeared to have brought his own car seat and diaper bag for Sailor, and rented a pick-up truck to drive her to and from her mother's new home in Wasilla, an hour north of Anchorage.

Custody papers filed earlier this month detailed specific pick-up and drop-off points for Bristol and Dakota to adhere to during the visits from March 19 to March 22.

Over the weekend, Dakota made the two-hour round trip to Wasilla twice each day in heavy snowfall to collect and drop off his daughter.

And while Sailor was spending time with her father last week, Bristol hit back at an Instagram follower who cruelly criticized her brother Trig for wearing a Donald Trump campaign hat.

Family friends: Bristol also posted a photo of Trig (right) holding hands with Tripp (left) that day

Snow day: Bristol is pictured posing with her sisters Willow (right), 21, and Piper (center), 15, in celebration of Piper's birthday on March 19

To celebrate World Down Syndrome Day last Monday, the proud sister shared a precious photo of Trig smiling as he models a knit hat featuring Donald's presidential campaign slogan, 'Make America Great Again'.

And while many praised Bristol for sharing the sweet photo, one Instagram user tried to turn a positive post about raising awareness for the genetic disorder into an opportunity to try and take a jab at The Donald at Trig's expense.

'Yep that's Trumps target demographic,' she wrote, using two faces with tears of joy emojis.

While the Instagram user's account is private, her profile indicates that she is a nursing student, and Bristol quickly came to her innocent brother's defense.

'I wish I knew who you were, hope you don't happen to be a nurse with any child with Down syndrome. You are pathetic [sic],' Bristol responded in the comments section of her post.

Growing girl: The proud mom shared these two adorable photos of Sailor smiling last week

Strong message: Bristol posted this photo of herself with Sailor and Tripp last month as she explained that she will never keep her children from having a 'positive relationship with their fathers'

It is likely that Trig's choice of headwear - a knitted Trump beanie hat - was picked up by his mother Sarah during a recently rally; the former Republican vice presidential candidate has been busy supporting The Donald in his campaign in recent months, appearing alongside him at numerous events and speaking out to support him on a variety of social media channels.

However, Bristol never mentioned Donald or his campaign when she shared the photo of Trig. Instead, she praised the little boy for bringing their family so much joy while raising awareness for Down syndrome.

'World Down Syndrome Day! I don't know how our family got so lucky to have this handsome boy,' she wrote. 'Light of our lives without a doubt,' she wrote, using the hashtags '#theluckyfew #TrigPaxson #T21 #mybrotherhasmorechromosomesthanyou'.

Down syndrome occurs when a person has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21, and Bristol often uses the hashtag #mybrotherhasmorechromosomesthanyou' when posting photos featuring her little brother.

Later that day, Bristol shared another photo of Trig holding hands with Tripp, writing: 'One more picture for World Down Syndrome Day!'
Tom Hiddleston did nothing to quell rumours that he could be in line to play the next James Bond after his character ordered the secret agent's signature drink on last night's finale of The Night Manager.

The 35-year-old British actor has been playing the lead role of Jonathan Pine in the John Le Carre adaptation, and last night he sent fans into meltdown after uttering the words: 'Excuse me, sir? Can I have a vodka martini please?'

Last year it was announced that Daniel Craig would reprise the role of Bond one final time before hanging up his tux, and since then rumours have been rife, with everyone from Idris Elba to Damian Lewis and even Poldark's Aidan Turner seemingly in the running.

Viewers were left wondering if the Night Manager producers were adding in knowing touches referencing James Bond as the characters sipped vodka martinis

Elizabeth Debicki sips on a vodka martini in The Night Manager - and sends viewers into meltdown

But since The Night Manager first aired on February 21, fans have been quick to point out Tom Hiddleson's apprarent suitability for the role, and after last night's episode, they were sent into a Bond-fuelled frenzy.

Morgan Jeffery took to Twitter to write: 'Excuse me, sir - can I have a vodka martini please? OH THEY'RE JUST TROLLING US NOW.'

A fellow viewer tweeted: 'Tom Hiddleston so far has ordered a Vodka Martini played roulette in a casino. Looking grim for Idris Elba #TheNightManager.'

Following the vodka martini scene, Steve Marsh commented: 'Tom Hiddleston's job application is complete.'

Last month, devoted fans of the Eton-educated actor launched an impassioned online campaign for him to become the next 007.

Daniel Craig appeared to rule himself out of the franchise for good, after admitting he would 'rather slash my wrists' than reprise the role for the fifth time.

Devoted fans of Tom Hiddleston have launched an online campaign for him to become the next 007 after his staring role in BBC spy thriller, The Night Manager

While some actor's like to keep their besotted fan base at arm's length, Westminister-born Tom is nothing but 'flattered' about the troupe who describe themselves as 'more than ordinary fans'

However, Tom appears more than willing to don the famous black tuxedo and bow tie, telling The Sun: 'I'm a huge Bond fan. Daniel Craig is doing a very good job... maybe one day.'

And he has been a frontrunner since episode one of The Night Manager first aired last month.

Audience members even said the programme felt rather like an 'audition' for the Bond movies.

Malcolm Roberts commented: 'I didn't think of #TheNightManager as #TomHiddleston's #Bond audition but I am now and I like the idea.'

Katie said: '#TheNightManager is honestly Tom's audition for James Bond,' while Ian Samuels tweeted: 'If this Tom Hiddleston's audition for Bond he's got my vote #TheNightManager.'

Tom won much praise from viewers after impressing as a former soldier turned hotel chief turned spy in The Night Manager

Some viewers said Tom would be the 'perfect' replacement for Craig and would be starting a 'petition' to ensure he gets the role

While Luke Dady wrote: '25mins in, and #TheNightManager feels like Tom Hiddleston's James Bond audition.'

Some viewers said Tom would be the 'perfect' replacement for Craig and they would be starting a 'petition' to ensure he gets the part. Sue Bell wrote: 'Wow great start to The Night Manager - Tom Hiddleston would be perfect as James Bond.'

While a fellow tweeter commented: '@twhiddleston an almost perfect choice for a future Bond, fancy it? #TheNightManager a first class piece of television. Congratulations.'

Ella-Mai added: 'My mum and I are officially starting a petition for tom hiddleston to be james bond #TheNightManager.'

Daniel Craig has previously said he would 'rather slash my wrists' than reprise his role as James Bond. Last year it was announced that the actor would reprise the role of Bond one final time before hanging up his tux

Viewers also mocked up memes of Tom holding Bond's gun and discussing the film with his The Night manager co-star Hugh Laurie.

Trever Chenery commented: 'I think I've just seen the next James Bond. Tom Hiddleston #TheNightManager Definitely, no thinking involved #brilliant.'

Nicole added: 'TOM HIDDLESTON: THE NEXT JAMES BOND,' and Vicki Wardman said: 'Can Tom Hiddleston be the next James bond please? #TheNightManager.'

Tom achieved global fame as the scheming Loki in Marvel's Thor films. He has also hit the headlines for dating a string of beautiful women including Jessica Chastain, Lara Pulver and Kat Dennings.

Tom appears more than willing to don the famous black tuxedo and bow tie, telling The Sun: 'I'm a huge Bond fan.' And he has been a frontrunner since episode one of The Night Manager first aired last month.

Viewers also mocked up memes of Tom holding Bond's gun and discussing the film with his The Night manager co-star Hugh Laurie. One wrote: 'Don't worry Bro, we all support you as the next James Bond'

Despite his success, Tom admits his scientist father was apprehensive about him becoming an actor. He said: 'He was genuinely worried that I would be bored and unfulfilled. Acting was completely different from anything he knew and he couldn't see that it was a real job.'

Helped by a star-studded premiere in Berlin last month, The Night Manager attracted 6.14 million viewers for its debut episode - a 26.2 per cent share of the audience.

The six-part series, also starring Hugh Laurie, Olivia Colman and Tom Hollander, follows British soldier Jonathan Pine (Hiddleston), who is recruited by intelligence operative Burr (Colman) to navigate an unholy alliance between the intelligence community and the secret arms trade.

To infiltrate the inner circle of lethal arms dealer Richard Onslow Roper (Laurie), Pine must himself become a criminal.

Despite his success, Tom admits his father was apprehensive about him becoming an actor. He said: 'He was genuinely worried that I would be bored and unfulfilled. Acting was completely different from anything he knew'
Gay actress Ellen Page said she is happier than ever since publicly coming out as she stars in a new striking magazine cover shoot.

The Oscar-nominated star of Juno, who grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and now lives in Los Angeles, said her happiness since coming out is 'more than I could have even imagined'.

The 29-year-old, who came out at an LGBT conference in Las Vegas on Valentine's Day just over two years ago, told Malibu Magazine she is a 'different person' since making the announcement.

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Striking: Actress Ellen Page, 29, pictured staring into the camera as part of stunning photoshoot for Malibu Magazine, as she reveals she is happier than ever since coming out publicly

Pensive: Ellen, who lives Los Angeles, pictured looking thoughtful, says her happiness is 'more than I could have even imagined'.

Profile: Ellen, pictured side-on, says she is a 'different person' since making the announcement about her sexuality

Ellen, who is in a relationship with artist Samantha Thomas, said: 'I think even leading up to do it you know something will shift in you, or obviously you know some part of you has already had some kind of a shift to get to that point, needless to say, and you expect to be happier.

'But its more than I could have even imagined. I feel happier than Ive probably ever felt, and also Im inspired again creatively.

'When you feel like you can live as your authentic self in the world, then you get to really authentically create and explore, and youre filled with this...I dont know...I guess passion again.'

The shoot features contrasting images of Ellen - some monochrome and others in color - in a combination of strong, sensitive and vulnerable poses.

Ellen said there has been a 'shift' in attitudes towards LGBT, that more people's stories still need to be told as pictures from her new striking magazine cover shoot were unveiled.

Monochrome: Ellen, pictured gazing into the camera for her cover shoot for the latest issue of Malibu Magazine, is in a relationship with artist Samantha Thomas

Aviator: Ellen, pictured in sunglasses, says she was 'inspired again' by landmark personal moment

Busy: Ellen, pictured standing in the street for the shoot, said she pitched her travel documentary series Gaycation herself to Viceland co-president Spike Jonze

She said she was 'inspired again' after the landmark moment in her life as she talked about her passion for her latest projects.

She has been filming in Japan, Jamaica, Brazil and the US for her documentary series Gaycation and co-starred with Julianne Moore in Freeheld, a film based on the true story of same-sex couple Laurel Hester and Stacie Andree.

She said both she and Julianne wanted to make the film because they were 'inspired and angered' by the story.

Under-representation, she said, was also a motivation for pitching the idea for Gaycation to Viceland co-president Spike Jonze.

She said: 'I think everyone working on the entire film [Freeheld] felt this sort of heart investment in the project.

Puppy love: Ellen, pictured with her dog Patters, says she has been learning to surf fromSamantha

Spotlight: Ellen, pictured smiling for a shoot, said more LGBT stories need to be told

'And its also just the simple fact that you want to have more LGBT stories represented, and obviously were seeing that shift, but of course we need more.

'A big part of making Gaycation, too, is being able to have the community represented and those stories told'.

She said filming for the television show has been a privilege, adding that she felt 'moved and honored' when they filmed the first 'Pride' celebration in Jamaica.

She said: 'There have been so many different kinds of interesting, because the show is about the joys and the triumphs, or just the nightlife or the day-to-day life or what have you, but sadly its also about discrimination and the struggles that a lot of people face who are oppressed.

'So its hard, the word "interesting". We were able to film and be a part of the very first public sort of "Pride" celebration in Jamaica, and I just cant even begin to say how moved and honored I felt to be able to witness that and grateful to the people who allowed us to be there, because a lot of people didnt want to be interviewed anonymously, or would drop out kind of last minute.

Moving: Ellen, pictured recently in New York, says she was 'moved and honored' shooting Gaycation

Public figure: Ellen, pictured left at a reading in Los Angeles and right discussing Gaycation in New York, both earlier this month, says surfing reminds her of acting

In demand: Ellen, pictured right with girlfriend Samantha, left, at a dinner in Washington DC, co-starred in Freeheld with actress Julianne Moore

'Understandably so, because the situation is difficult for a lot of people there.

'And I guess that was just such a special moment, to have the opportunity to meet people who are just so much more brave or courageous than you could ever imagine being in your life'.

Ellen said Samantha has been teaching her to surf which she compared to acting.

She said: 'I love it! Its one of those things that I havent been doing for that long, less than a year, but its hard to imagine it not being in my life.

'I just feel so grateful to my girlfriend, Samantha, for giving me that gift.

Fortunate: Ellen, pictured right at a gala with Samantha, left, at Rome Film Festival, says her girlfriend is an 'awesome teacher'

'Shes an awesome teacher, and I feel like it changes you in some way, like with my anxiety levels or my stress levels. Its an amazing thing.'

She added: 'I mean, just getting in the ocean is definitely a thing unto itself, and to have the opportunity to learn to challenge yourself that much, you know, I like that challenge.

'And then when it comes to the actual act of surfing, I suppose it feels  maybe this will sound actor-y and annoying  like something similar to acting in the sense that theres pretty much nothing else you could think of other than exactly what youre doing in that moment, and you cant ever anticipate what that moments going to be because you cant anticipate what the oceans going to do.
Can be fatal or cause

They each lost their baby to a condition they'd never heard of - but they now know kills one child a week.

Shaheen McQuade, Natalie Russell and Fiona Paddon all had their lives devastated by an infection called GBS - the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacterium - which attacked their babies during birth.

GBS, a common bacteria found in the vagina and bowel of around a fifth of women, is normally harmless to carriers.

But if passed from mother to baby around the time of labour it can have fatal and devastating consequences including stillbirth, bacterial meningitis, brain damage and cerebral palsy.

If detected early enough, mothers can be treated with intravenous antibiotics during childbirth, to effectively reduce the risk of passing GBS to their baby.

But unlike other countries, such as the US, Canada and France, there is no routine screening during pregnancy for GBS - despite a test costing the NHS just 11.

Worse still, women are not even routinely informed about the danger GBS poses as part of their antenatal care.

Now, these grieving mothers want current guidelines revised.

Three grieving mothers whose babies died after being infected with Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacteria have called for the introduction of routine testing during pregnancy. Pictured are (left to right) Shaheen McQuade with son Zach, Fiona Padden with partner Scott Bramley and son Edward, and Natalie Russell

Each mother has launched a petition calling on both Westminster and Holyrood to introduce national screening for the bacteria, using the simple 11 test, garnering hundreds of thousands of signatures in support of their demands.

Despite the risks GBS poses to babies, most pregnant women have never even heard of it, something which Jane Plumb, MBE, chief executive of the charity Group B Strep Support, believes is unacceptable.

'GBS is the most common cause of severe infection in newborn babies, and the most common cause of meningitis in babies under three months of age,' said Mrs Plumb, whose son Theo died from a GBS infection twenty years ago.

'If a mother is a GBS carrier, there's a 50 per cent chance she'll pass the bacteria on to her baby during labour.

'And that baby has around a one in three hundred chance of developing a GBS infection if no preventative measures are taken.

'Despite these statistics, the NHS refuses to even routinely advise women about GBS when they are pregnant, and have resisted calls for a national screening programme to be introduced for years.'

She continued: 'There are pockets of midwives and hospitals who do advise and test, but they are the exception and it's grossly unfair pregnant women are subject to this postcode lottery.

'Twenty two other countries around the world, including the US, Italy and Spain have examined similar evidence to what the UK has looked at, and made the decision to screen women.

'Their rates of infection have gone down, ours are going up. We really can't understand why testing is not routine here.

'At the very least women should be educated about GBS and given the option to pay for an effective, private test themselves.'

THE DEADLY INFECTION THAT KILLS ONE BABY A WEEK Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacterium infection in newborn babies can cause serious complications that can be life threatening. Extremely rarely, GBS infection during pregnancy can also cause miscarriage, early (premature) labour or stillbirth. If a baby develops GBS infection less than seven days after birth, its known as early-onset GBS infection. Group B Streptococcus (GBS) bacterium infection in newborn babies can cause serious complications that can be life threatening Most babies who become infected develop symptoms within 12 hours of birth. Symptoms include: being floppy and unresponsive

not feeding well

grunting

high or low temperature

fast or slow heart rates

fast or slow breathing rates

irritability Its estimated that about 1 in 2,000 babies born in the UK and Ireland develops early-onset GBS infection. This means that every year in the UK (with 680,000 births a year) around 340 babies will develop early-onset GBS infection. Most babies who become infected can be treated successfully and will make a full recovery. However, even with the best medical care the infection can cause life-threatening complications, such as blood poisoning (septicaemia); infection of the lung (pneumonia); infection of the lining of the brain (meningitis). However, 2 in 10 babies with GBS infection will recover with some level of disability, and 1 in 10 infected babies will die, according to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Early-onset GBS infection can cause problems such as cerebral palsy, deafness, blindness and serious learning difficulties. Source: NHS Choices and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Advertisement

So why aren't women in the UK screened?

Mervi Jokinen is a practice and standards professional advisor at the Royal College of Midwives.

'It's a huge decision to introduce a national screening programme and many factors need to be taken into account; one of them being treatment.

'If we treat all pregnant women carrying GBS with antibiotics, given that only a small number of those babies will develop an infection from it, could we do more harm?

COUNTRIES WHERE WOMEN ARE SCREENED FOR GBS BACTERIA The charity Group B Strep Support claims the following countries routinely offer pregnant women screening tests for GBS: US, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Lithuania, Japan, Taiwan, Argentina, Chile, Dubai, Oman. In Australia, the majority of women are routinely screened, aside from one state which adopts a risk-based prevention strategy. New Zealand targets screening at pregnant women at high risk of passing on the bacteria. Source: Group B Strep Support Advertisement

'We are all aware of antibiotic resistance and we must balance that, which is a very real public health threat, against the risks posed by GBS.

'To simply advise women about GBS, then leave them with no access to screening or monitoring, wouldn't be a responsible approach.

'There has to be a step by step structure in place, from advice to screening to treatment.

'We have to take an all-inclusive approach to caring for people, based on the potential benefits and risks.'

Later this year, the National Screening Committee, which advises the NHS and government ministers, will look again at this issue and decide whether screening should be introduced.

'We want to see as standard, well-informed antenatal education about GBS and a national screening programme, using an Enriched Culture Medium (ECM) test, which is the most effective available,' Mrs Plumb said.

'Mothers in the UK deserve to be empowered with information, and their babies protected by testing and treatment.

I CAN'T BELIEVE MY SON DIED FOR THE SAKE OF A SIMPLE TEST AND SOME ANTIBIOTICS'

Fiona Paddon, 40, is a solicitor. She lives in Greenwich, south London, with her partner Scott Bramley, 42, a company director. Their son Edward died on 5th June 2014, at nine days old.

My son Edward was delivered by emergency Caesarean section while I was under general anaesthetic, after my placenta separated from the wall of my womb during labour.

When I came round from the anaesthetic to be told Edward was fighting for his life in the neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Lewisham Hospital, where he had been born, I immediately assumed it was down to his traumatic birth.

Fiona Paddon, 40, gave birth in May 2014. But her son Edward was severely brain damaged as a result of being exposed to the GBS bacteria. She is pictured with Edward and her partner Scott Bramley, 42

After his birth, Edward was put on a ventilator, but after a week doctors advised Mrs Paddon to 'let him go'. She is pictured pregnant with Edwards (left) and in hospital after his birth (right)

Within hours though I had learned that he was severely brain damaged as a result of being exposed to the GBS bacteria, during my 34-hour labour.

After nine months safe inside me, in the final hours before his birth, GBS had travelled into my womb after my waters broke and infected him, irreversibly damaging his brain.

We were transferred to St Thomas' in London where doctors told Scott and I that if Edward did survive he would be seriously disabled.

But it quickly became clear to me that was the best case scenario; he wasn't going to survive.

To be told your beautiful baby has to die is a pain you cannot imagine until you've experienced it Fiona Paddon, 40

He was on a ventilator and every time it was removed, he failed to breathe on his own.

My focus was on Edward, and spending every waking moment by his incubator, so I didn't give much time to looking into GBS at first, not really understanding what it was.

When Edward was around a week old doctors advised us it was time to let him go.

He wasn't showing any signs of improvement, and he couldn't stay on a ventilator forever.

To be told your beautiful baby has to die is a pain you cannot imagine until you've experienced it.

He was nine days old when we were taken to a private room with him where we had time to cuddle him and take photos.

When his ventilator was disconnected, no one knew how long he would survive for and he surprised doctors by breathing on his own for twelve hours.

Without the tubes attached to him, we were able to bathe him for the first time, change his nappy and just be a normal family for the first time ever.

Mrs Paddon said: 'As I researched it, and discovered how treatable it is, I just couldn't believe Edward had died for the sake of a simple test and some antibiotics'

Eventually his breathing became slower, then it stopped and he slipped away. He had fought so incredibly hard to stay with us.

After his death we met with doctors who explained I had been carrying GBS, which had killed Edward.

We know GBS exists, and we know the risks it poses to babies. Ignoring it by not screening isn't the answer Fiona Paddon, 40

As I researched it, and discovered how treatable it is, I just couldn't believe Edward had died for the sake of a simple test and some antibiotics.

To mark Edward's first birthday I wanted to something worthwhile so I fundraised for the charity GBS Support who had really helped me and given me a lot of support and advice after his death.

With their encouragement I launched a petition in July last year, which is GBS Awareness Month, to raise awareness among women about it and to call for changes to the current guidelines on testing.

We know GBS exists, and we know the risks it poses to babies. Ignoring it by not screening isn't the answer.

'MY SON DIED AND I'M ANGRY I WAS DENIED SCREENING'

Shaheen McQuade, 25, works for a telecommunications company. She lives in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire, with her fiance Craig, 33, a painter and decorator.

Their son Zach died in August 2015, just 12 days old.

I cradled my son in my arms as he took his last breath, just 12 days after he was born.

His tiny body had been ravaged by bacterial meningitis, caused by GBS which he had contracted during labour.

We had barely had time to get to know him, yet now we had to say goodbye. I'm still struggling to come to terms with his death.

My waters broke five days before my due date and I gave birth normally the following day.

During labour there was protein in my blood and I had a temperature  both indicators of GBS, although I didn't know that at the time.

Shaheen McQuade, 25, gave birth to son Zach in August 2015, but he developed bacterial meningitis as a result of being infected with GBS. He died 12 days later

In November 2015 Mrs McQuade launched a campaign asking the Scottish Government to look into the issue of GBS screening

Neither seemed to ring any alarm bells with the midwives and doctors looking after me and I wasn't given antibiotics.

Zach was born on August 2, 2015 weighing 7lb 10oz and he was absolutely perfect. We left hospital the following day and he thrived at home.

One baby dying a week, from a preventable condition, is far too many Shaheen McQuade, 25,

However, on August 15th 2015, his breathing became laboured, he wouldn't feed and was distressed.

He was taken by ambulance to Wishaw General Hospital where a lumbar puncture was performed, which revealed he was suffering from bacterial meningitis.

Just hours before he had been a healthy, happy baby.

Now he was on a ventilator, being treated with antibiotics.

When a doctor came to the private room where Craig and I had been told to wait, I knew from his face he had terrible news.

He told us that Zach wasn't going to make it; the meningitis was too powerful for his little body to fight.

Zach was being transferred to Yorkhill Children's Hospital in Glasgow, he said, but they didn't know if he would even survive the journey.

'I felt like I was in a nightmare and kept hoping I would wake up,' Ms McQuade said. Pictured with fiance Craig, 33, while pregnant

I felt like I was in a nightmare and kept hoping I would wake up.

Zach survived the journey by ambulance, accompanied by a team of medics and Craig, as I drove behind in shock.

But at Yorkhill another doctor came to see us, ashen faced.

'I'm so sorry,' he said. 'We've done a brain scan and there is no brain activity. There's nothing we can do, he isn't going to survive.'

Craig and I were in a deep state of shock as we were led to Zach's cot to spend time with him.

We cuddled him and took locks of his hair, telling him we loved him so much. It was so surreal in the most horrific way.

A nurse lifted him on his little mattress and laid it across my lap, then took all of the tubes out of his body, including the ventilator. He stopped breathing, and was gone.

Before we received the results of Zach's post-mortem examination I had researched causes of neonatal meningitis, and come across GBS as one of them, which I'd never heard of before.

When the consultant we met with confirmed GBS had caused Zach's death I felt like I'd been hit by a sledgehammer.

I knew from my research how treatable it was, and how Zach's life could have been saved by a simple test during my pregnancy and antibiotics during labour.

Losing Zach had been devastating but to learn he could so easily have been saved was unbearable.

At first I was wracked with guilt. The GBS had been in my body, I had passed it to him. I should have known about it and stopped it hurting him.

Then guilt turned to anger, that information and testing for GBS had been withheld from me, with such horrendous consequences.

Why are women in the UK not allowed to know about this potential killer bacteria lurking in our body? It feels so unfair and wrong.

'Losing Zach had been devastating but to learn he could so easily have been saved was unbearable,' Ms McQuade said. She is pictured with fiance Craig and Zach after his birth

'I want Scottish mothers to be offered information and screening, just like mums in the other countries who do this as routine ante-natal care,' Ms McQuade said. Zach and Craig are pictured in hospital

In November 2015 I launched a campaign asking the Scottish government to look into the issue of GBS screening, and in January I spoke to MSPs at Holyrood about my own experience.

One baby dying a week, from a preventable condition, is far too many. I want Scottish mothers to be offered information and screening, just like mothers in the other countries who do this as routine ante-natal care.

'WOMEN IN OTHER COUNTRIES ARE SCREENED, WHY NOT ME?

Natalie Russell, 32, is a software analyst and lives in Edinburgh. Her daughter Ella was stillborn in July 2011.

For Ms Russell, a change in guidelines will come too late to save her daughter, but she hopes it will spare other mothers from the grief they've experienced

Natalie Russell, 32, says her daughter Ella's death left her with 'a determination that other women shouldn't suffer like she did'. Ella was born stillborn in July 2011 as a result of being infected with GBS

When I learned that my beautiful daughter Ella had died as a result of a preventable infection, my grief was replaced with a deep anger, and a determination that other women shouldn't suffer like I have.

To realise Ella had never taken a breath, and I'd been robbed of my child, because of something I'd never been advised about during my ante-natal care, and never been given the option to be tested and treated for, left me reeling with shock and disbelief.

After a smooth pregnancy with no problems, I had a very long labour lasting six days.

I'd been robbed of my child, because of something I'd never been advised about. It left me reeling with shock and disbelief Natalie Russell, 32,

Fifty minutes before Ella was born, I was in the birthing pool when the midwife said she couldn't find the baby's heartbeat.

I was rushed to theatre where Ella was delivered with forceps, but she was already dead.

She was laid on my chest, floppy and blue, as my now ex-husband and I struggled to take in that the baby we'd been so excited to meet, was gone.

A post-mortem examination and investigation revealed that GBS had been found in the amniotic water [the fluid found inside the amniotic sac, a 'bag' that protects the baby in the womb] and umbilical cord, and it was given as the cause of death.

The consultant who met with us at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, where Ella was born, matter-of-factly explained women in the UK aren't tested for GBS, and that I would automatically be given antibiotics in labour if I went on to have another child.

I feel so let down by the NHS. Why are women in other countries screened, and given the option to have treatment if they are GBS carriers, and not women here?

Mrs Russell, pictured while pregnant, says she feels 'let down' by the NHS over a lack of GBS screening

It's not as if the NHS doesn't recognise the risks GBS poses because if it's detected during the course of testing for a different issue, for example, a urinary tract infection, then the women is treated with antibiotics during labour.

I put all of my trust in the health care professionals who looked after me during my pregnancy, that they would make me aware of everything I needed to know to keep my baby safe.

To know that had I been told about GBS by my midwife, and offered a test for it, or even given the option to pay for a private test, would have saved Ella's life is devastating.

I feel women have a right to know about GBS, and they're being denied it.

The trauma of losing Ella caused my marriage to break down; her dad and I were just so decimated by her death our relationship couldn't survive it.

I'm in a new relationship now and I would like to have another baby in the future, but when that time comes I will be paying for private GBS testing if it's still not available on the NHS.

Nothing will bring Ella back, but every week other mothers like me are having to face the horror of losing their child, and that needs to stop.

So I have dedicated myself to campaigning for a change in ante-natal care.

I want health care professionals who are caring for pregnant women to be educated about GBS, so they can pass information on to their patients, and I want women to be offered a test for GBS as a matter of routine.

Every morning I wake up and for a second I forget what happened, and believe my daughter is alive. Then I remember.

Until I feel women are being given the information they're entitled to, and babies are being protected from unnecessary death and suffering, there will be no peace for me.
Jacob Barnes was 12 years old when his friends started going through puberty - leaving him behind.

His classmates in Norwalk, Ohio, were shooting up and sprouting facial hair, their voices cracking and deepening.

Yet, Jacob stayed put at 5'2" and 146 pounds  minus the five oclock shadow his friends had started to notice.

But, he wasnt worried, for many adults told him that he was likely just a late bloomer.

However, at age 17, Jacob went to see a specialist after puberty still had not set in.

Doctors discovered that the high school student had a tumor growing on his pituitary gland preventing him from going through puberty.

A team of surgeons promptly removed the tumor, and the teenager was given growth hormones.

Within the next year, Jacob, now 21, grew almost one foot and gained 100 pounds, standing tall at 61 and weighing 242 pounds.

Jacob told Daily Mail Online: My classmates just couldnt believe that they saw me growing so quickly.

When Jacob Barnes was 17 (pictured far left), he was only 5'2" and 146 pounds - and hadn't gone through puberty. But, after Dr Daniel Prevedello (pictured middle left and far right) removed a tumor from the boy's pituitary gland at age 17, he grew nearly one foot and 100 pounds in just one year (pictured middle right)

Throughout high school, when Jacobs friends started to look like young men, he maintained the appearance of a young boy.

He never felt self-conscious, though, believing hed eventually hit that typical adolescent growth spurt.

But Jacob and his parents, Deborah and Jeffrey, started to wonder if something was wrong when he reached 16 years old.

WHAT IS CRANIOPHARYNGIOMA? A craniopharyngioma is a benign tumor arising from small nests of cells near the pituitary stalk. The tumor causes an increased pressure within the brain, which leads to many symptoms, such as pressure on the optic tract and pituitary gland. As a result, obesity, delayed development, impaired vision and a swollen optic nerve are common. Craniopharyngiomas represent up to five per cent of all primary brain tumors, and up to 10 per cent of all childhood brain tumors. Surgery to remove the tumor is usually the first step in treatment. But because the tumor affects the pituitary gland, an endocrinologist - a doctor trained to treat hormone imbalances - may also work with the patient on a long-term care plan. Source: American Brain Tumor Association Advertisement

The teenager had previously seen a neurologist for help with severe migraines.

Despite years of attempted treatments, nothing seemed to help mitigate his headaches.

And so, the Barnes family paid a visit to their family doctor, worrying that perhaps his lack of growth was linked to his continuous headaches.

The doctor told Jacob: Youre 17, you look like youre 12. There could be some issues going on.

He sent Jacob for an MRI scan to see what was happening in his body.

The scan revealed that Jacob had a craniopharyngioma, an aggressive tumor that grows from the stalk of the pituitary gland.

The pituitary gland is a tiny organ at the base of the brain that produces hormones  and is necessary for a person to undergo puberty.

The stalk of the gland is responsible for all the connection and communication between the brain and the pituitary gland.

At the time, doctors did not know if the tumor was cancerous or benign.

Jacob (pictured center), of Ohio, was only 12 years old when he stopped growing - while the rest of his classmates his age (pictured) went on to grow and experience puberty

At first, Jacob (pictured far right, with classmates) and his parents thought the boy was just a late bloomer - but when he still hadn't grown at age 17, they sought medical attention

Jacob and his parents were sitting at the kitchen table when they got the call they dreaded the most  detailing the severity of his condition.

My mom had taken the call; it was really hard for her to tell me, he recalled.

The teenager was referred to Dr Daniel Prevedello, a neurologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

I knew we would be able to help him Dr Daniel Prevedello, of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center

Dr Prevedello is known for his specialization in minimally invasive approaches to the brain and skull base to remove tumors.

The surgeon told Daily Mail Online that Jacobs tumor is relatively rare and stems from cells that migrate from the roof of the mouth  which forms the pituitary gland in the womb.

If those cells turn into a tumor, it can be very aggressive  leading to vision loss and pituitary gland dysfunction.

The specialist had experience working on such tumors  and so, Jacob was in good hands.

Dr Prevedello said: I knew we would be able to help him.

The specialist explained to Jacob and his parents that the tumor could be removed through surgical resection during a state-of-the-art endoscopic endonasal approach.

Shortly thereafter, in February 2012, Jacob arrived at the hospital for surgery.

He recalled feeling excited  though his mother was crying out of worry.

A MRI scan showed that Jacob (pictured far left, with Dr Prevedello, right) had a Craniopharyngiona - an aggressive tumor that comes from the stalk of the pituitary gland

Doctors were not sure whether the tumor was cancerous or not, and scheduled 17-year-old Jacob (pictured second from right, with his family) for a revolutionary procedure, in which the tumor would be removed by an endoscope inserted through his nostrils

PITUITARY GLAND AND PUBERTY Puberty is the body's natural process of sexual maturation. It is triggered by a small part of the brain called the hypothalamus - which is a gland that secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). That hormone stimulates the pituitary gland - a pea-sized organ connected to the bottom of the hypothalamus - to emit two hormones: Luteinizing hormone and follice-stimulating hormone. Those two hormones signal the body's sex organs to begin releasing the appropriate sex hormones - including estrogen and testosterone, which launch the other signs of puberty in the body. Most children with delayed puberty will eventually go through an otherwise normal puberty on their own - just at a late age. Sometimes, the delay occurs just because the child is maturing more slowly than average. In other cases, the delay in puberty can signal more sever health problems - including craniopharyngioma. Source: National Institutes of Health Advertisement

Going into surgery, youre a lot less nervous than the people around you, he explained.

Dr Prevedello performed the surgery with a team of ear, nose and throat specialists, who inserted an endoscope through the boys nostrils.

The endoscope has a camera smaller than a pencil, which provided images so that the surgeons could see what they were doing.

Once the endoscope arrived near the skull base, Dr Prevedello drilled the area near the carotid arteries to expose the pituitary gland.

The doctor said: We then open the dura, which is what surrounds the brain and we have a view of the tumor.

I spent my time then dissecting the tumor away from the pituitary stalk, optic nerves, brain and blood vessels.

Once the tumor was removed, the team covered the opening with the mucous membrane of Jacobs nose, essentially transplanting it from the septum to the skull base.

Jacob said: It was expected to only be six hours, but due to the nature of the tumor, it took a lot longer to shave it off  10 hours total.

Scans taken closer to the surgery had suggested that the tumor wasnt cancerous  but no one knew for sure until the operation.

The operation to remove the tumor was only supposed to take six hours - but ended up taking 10, Jacob told Daily Mail Online. Doctors determined that the tumor was not cancerous, and the boy spent four days in the hospital after the surgery. He was told that he would have to stay in bed for a month - but was back at school two weeks later

During the procedure, the doctors were able to determine once and for all that the tumor was, in fact, benign.

Jacob said: Knowing that it wasnt going to be cancerous was probably the biggest relief.

It was pretty quick and I definitely had a lot of growing pains in my knees, hips and joints Jacob, on his post-surgery growth spurt

After surgery, he spent four days in the Intensive Care Unit before he was discharged home, and told he had to stay in bed to recuperate for a month.

However, two weeks later, Jacob defied the medical odds to return to school with his friends.

But, merely removing the tumor wasnt enough to kick his body into puberty  for the surgeons had to remove the entire pituitary gland during the procedure.

Thus, Jacob went to see an endocrinologist, who started him on a regimen of growth hormones in June 2012.

The endocrinologist told the teenager that hed likely grow only five or six inches.

Yet, by the next summer, Jacob was 11 inches taller.

It was pretty quick and I definitely had a lot of growing pains in my knees, hips and joints, he said.

In June 2013, Jacob started testosterone treatments as well.

After the surgery, Jacob (pictured left with Dr Prevello) was given growth hormones so that he could undergo puberty - and shortly afterwards, he was given testosterone treatments as well. Now 21, Jacob is enrolled at University of Findlay - and says he couldn't imagine going through college 'looking like a little kid'

Dr Prevello said: There is a lot of anxiety on giving hormones to young patients since when there is residual tumor, there is a possibility of tumor growth.

On Jacobs case he received all the hormones needed for him to have a normal life and we were very satisfied with the tumor resection.

I am so glad to see him growing from being a short kid to be a normal tall man (taller than me at this point).

Jacob is now a computer science student at University of Findlay, in Ohio.

He is still taking growth hormones  as ones adult body continues to produce it in low doses for the rest of their life  and returns to the doctor for annual MRI scans to ensure that the tumor has not reappeared.

He said: I cant imagine now what it would be like going through college looking like a little kid.
The packaging for Regrowz, a new hair loss product for men, makes some very bald promises. 'The only clinically proven hair regrowth product that reduces baldness for 100 per cent of subjects'; '100 per cent improvement in all cases'; 'Clinical studies have shown a 100 per cent success rate when it comes to reducing baldness.'

At the company's website, the good news continues. There are impressive looking 'before' and 'after' photographs, and references to a 'clinical trial' carried out by 'Princeton Consumer Research'.

Experts say around half of men have lost a significant amount of hair by the age of 50, but few are happy about the fact, which is why we are so eager to find a 'cure' for male-pattern baldness.

Claim: Pictures from the Regrowz website appear to show hair growing back after three months

Indeed, the worldwide market for hair loss products is worth an estimated 1.5 billion a year. And yet all too often products fail to deliver, their promises not quite so convincing in the harsh light of the bathroom.

Perhaps we should be looking more closely at the 'evidence' they use for their claims before we are tempted. So how do those made for Regrowz stack up? The manufacturer says its product is '100 per cent natural' and is based on a 'hair loss remedy that has been passed down many generations'.

The main ingredient is coconut oil, though it also contains a dozen exotic-sounding plant extracts. It comes in two parts - a 'scalp stimulant' (applied using a deodorant-type roll-on) and a 'restoration serum'.

You put both on your bald patch every other night before bed, then shampoo off in the morning. You won't notice much in the first month, says the maker, but 'by month three you should start to see new hair growth in bald areas'.

There's even a money-back guarantee - as long as you stick with the product, which you buy online, for six months (at a cost of at least 200) and take date-stamped photographs of your bald patch every four weeks.

I spoke to three men who had used Regrowz, some involved in the clinical trial. Two raved about it. 'My bald patch is totally going,' said Raaqib Rauf, a 25-year-old call centre worker. 'My head used to be very shiny, now it's not,' reported Ridwaan Adam, 34, an IT manager.

Clinical trial: Fifty men were recruited for the three-month study. But only 37 finished the course (file photo)

But digital marketing specialist Nick Boyle, 27, was less positive: 'Being blunt, I've not seen any change.'

But anecdotal testimony cannot be relied on - that's where we come to the independent clinical trial carried out by Princeton Consumer Research (PCR).

This is a private company that, despite sharing the Princeton name, has no connection with the world-famous university.

David Chandler, the director of UK operations at PCR - and described on the firm's website as its 'lead scientist' - explains how the Regrowz trial worked.

Most proper studies use an objective method for measuring hair density plus standardised photography that is analysed by an expert panel, who don't know what treatment has been given

Fifty men were recruited for the three-month study and were split into roughly equal groups: a third were given Regrowz, a third another 'natural remedy' and the final third received a placebo.

But only 37 finished the course, of whom 13 were using Regrowz. The product's effectiveness was measured in two ways: at the end of each month, the participants were asked whether they considered their bald patch was getting smaller.

A 'visual grader' also looked at their head to assess the level of hair loss. 'We use a scale called SALT - the Severity of Alopecia Tool,' says Mr Chandler, explaining that SALT is a measure of how much of the scalp is covered in hair.

The 'visual graders' for this trial? 'People who have worked in hair as stylists - cutting hair, dying hair,' says Mr Chandler. 'And then they've come to work for us and been trained on visual grading.' And that 100 per cent success figure?

The 13 men who were in the group that used Regrowz all said they believed their bald spot had decreased. Interestingly, so did one of the participants who was using the placebo.

Our expert: Andrew Messenger - that's Professor Andrew Messenger MBBS MD FRCP - says this is far from the only anti-baldness product where the evidence doesn't appear to stack up (file photo)

But the key point is we're looking at '100 per cent success' in a very small sample indeed. Remarkably, the 'visual graders' concluded the men using Regrowz benefited from an average reduction of 48.81 per cent hair loss.

But the results were not published in a scientific journal and no independent expert looked over the methodology and results - known as 'peer review' and considered compulsory in academia.

Professor Andrew Messenger, a consultant dermatologist at the Royal Hallamshire hospital, Sheffield, and president of the Institute of Trichologists, explains that without third-party checks - making sure, for example, that neither the participants nor the visual graders were aware of who was using Regrowz - 'you can't rely on the validity of the results'. And not only is a study of 13 people too small a number to rely on, but Professor Messenger says the SALT test is not an appropriate measure for male-pattern baldness. It was designed to measure patches of total hair loss, rather than areas that are thinning gradually.

There are one or two genuine things out there - and there are also a lot of things that are close to scams

He says a better method would have been to count individual hairs - instead, he says, they relied on 'a sort of guesstimate of how much hair there is in a particular area'.

There is also no published evidence that a blend of herbs, fruit and flowers such as this will cause hair to regrow.

But what about the 'before' and 'after' photos? In his view, the ones provided for Regrowz are not comparable because of different angles, lighting, magnification and hair styling.

'Most proper studies use an objective method for measuring hair density plus standardised photography that is analysed by an expert panel, who don't know what treatment has been given.'

One might also raise further questions. Mr Chandler, described as PCR's 'lead scientist', neglects to mention a university degree or a PhD on the careers website, LinkedIn - though he does mention his three A-levels.

And while he does have letters after his name, these are MCIPR, which stands for Member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations. When Good Health pressed Mr Chandler on his qualifications, he insisted: 'I am a scientist.' Shortly afterwards, he hung up.

Our expert Andrew Messenger - that's Professor Andrew Messenger MBBS MD FRCP - says this is far from the only anti-baldness product where the evidence doesn't appear to stack up. 'There are one or two genuine things out there - and there are also a lot of things that are close to scams,' he warns.

There are two treatments proven to reverse baldness. One is minoxidil, designed for high blood pressure. The other ts finasteride, which stops testosterone being converted into a form thought to be involved in hair loss

Professor Messenger says there are two treatments proven scientifically to reverse baldness.

The first is minoxidil, a drug designed for high blood pressure, but which had a side-effect of unwanted hair growth.

It is widely available as a hair-restoring lotion or foam, sold without prescription under the brand name Regaine, and in cheaper versions, such as Boots' Regular Strength Hair Loss Treatment.

The other drug is finasteride. Taken as a tablet, it works by stopping testosterone being converted into a form thought to be involved in hair loss.

Finasteride is available only with prescription, under the brand name Propecia, though it comes in cheaper own brands, for example by Superdrug.

Hair carries all sorts of connotations: age, sexual prowess, social signalling, so it's probably in our DNA to worry about it

Neither is a miracle cure, leading on average, to an increase of just 15 to 20 per cent in hair density.

Professor Messenger says one or two other treatments seem to offer similar levels of hair regrowth, though the evidence is not as well established.

These include combs that transmit a laser into the scalp, which is thought to stimulate hair follicle cells, improving hair growth.

Then there is a therapy using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, where a patient's blood is treated, then injected into his scalp to stimulate hair follicles.

One technology that may one day pay dividends is a cell-based treatment, says Professor Messenger.

Experiments show that if you take cells known as the dermal papilla from hair follicles and transplant them into bald areas, new follicles form and hair will grow.

Given that baldness is so widespread, why do we worry so much about it?

Professor Messenger, 65, who is 'thinning a bit at the top', but is phlegmatic about it, says it's likely this anxiety is hard-wired into us.
Tens of thousands of women and babies are being put at risk at failing maternity units, inspection reports reveal.

More than half of hospital maternity services have been rated either 'inadequate' or 'require improvement' for safety.

A desperate shortage of midwives means babies have been delivered by students and women are being refused pain-relieving injections.

Inspectors found blood on the walls in one unit, while at another caesareans were being carried out in a makeshift operating theatre that doubled-up as a storeroom.

More than half of hospital maternity services have been rated either 'inadequate' or 'require improvement' for safety, meaning tens of thousands of women and babies have been at risk, the Care Quality Commission found

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has so far inspected the maternity services of 150 hospital trusts, of which 65 have been graded as 'require improvement' and 13 as 'inadequate' for safety.

This means they are failing to take basic measures to prevent women and babies suffering avoidable harm. These inadequate trusts are together responsible for the care of 70,000 new mothers a year.

Earlier this month, separate research showed that British mothers are sent home from hospital after spending an average of a day and a half on NHS maternity units  less time than almost any other country in the developed world.

Figures in December also showed that half of maternity units had been forced to close their doors at least once to women in labour over the previous 12 months because they were so busy.

The latest CQC research revealed several units where inspectors found midwives were failing to carry out hourly checks of the foetus's heartbeat or not carrying them out properly. These included the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, near Worcester, where they were 'misinterpreting' the readings.

At Addenbrooke's in Cambridge one newborn at high risk of infection had been left unobserved overnight for ten hours. Inspectors uncovered a 'bullying culture' at Wexham Park Hospital near Slough, Berkshire, where midwives failed to report serious incidents for fear of triggering a 'witch hunt'.

The Royal Berkshire Hospital maternity unit in Reading closes its doors at least once a month because it is too busy, leading to women in labour being diverted to Swindon or Oxford, 30 miles away.

Maternity services are struggling to cope with rising levels of immigration and higher numbers of older and obese women, who have more complex labours. Many departments are severely short-staffed and do not have enough experienced midwives or obstetricians.

The Royal Berkshire Hospital maternity unit in Reading (pictured) closes its doors at least once a month because it is too busy, leading to women in labour being diverted to Swindon or Oxford, some 30 miles away

Last month the NHS announced reforms to maternity services, which include giving women a personal budget of 3,000 towards having a home birth. But critics worry that mothers are being pressured into having babies at home because it is cheaper.

The CQC gives trusts one of four ratings, as well as a separate grading for safety. Overall, three were 'outstanding', 91 'good', 48 'require improvement' and eight were 'inadequate.' But the scores are far lower for safety, where only one was 'outstanding', 71 'good', 65 'require improvement' and 13 'inadequate'.

Professor Sir Mike Richards, CQC's Chief Inspector of Hospitals, said: 'This is not good enough. There is no doubt that improvements are needed in order to narrow the variation that exists.'

Dr David Richmond, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: 'It is disappointing that some women are not receiving the high-quality care they deserve.

'The UK is a safe place for women to give birth, however pressure on maternity services is growing, placing stress on doctors, midwives and patients alike.
BJP president Amit Shah has been on a whirlwind tour

Assembly elections in five states have kept BJP president Amit Shah on his toes. He has been on a whirlwind tour of the states holding a series of public meetings.

Shah was in Assam on Monday and will be in West Bengal on Tuesday, where he will hold media briefing at the Kolkata Press Club before addressing rallies in Purulia and Medinipur.

He attended a rally on Monday with BJP's chief ministerial candidate Sarbananda Sonowal in Naoboicha before heading out for the rest of his tour.

AAP braces for a cabinet reshuffle

Most AAP MLAs reacted enthusiastically to Deputy CM Sisodias Budget, sacked ministers Jitender Singh Tomar and Asim Ahmed Khan were spotted sitting quietly together.

Ex-law and tourism minister Tomar is embroiled in a fake degree controversy while Khan, who was holding the charge of environment ministery was accused of corruption.

According to sources, Delhi's CM is likely to redistribute portfolios after March 31.

Bassi slams AAPs Delhi Budget

Former Delhi police commissioner BS Bassi had an uneasy relationship with the Aam Admi Party (AAP) government. He seems to have carried forward the distress even after his retirement.

Bassi tweeted on Monday against the AAP governments budget, saying it will not change the lives of the poor.

Delhi's Budget 2016-17 is a repeat of oft heard/seen/read advts. It won't change lives of poor. It won't create jobs for educated & skilled, tweeted Bassi, triggering speculation about his post-retirement plans.

AIIMS hits out at 'fake' NGOs

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) administration is annoyed with complaints that some NGOs are collecting money on its behalf.

Singling out three NGOs, the premier institute has issued a disclaimer disassociating itself with any fund raising exercise done by the three NGOs.

AIIMS has also cautioned people not to fall prey to such fraudulent calls seeking donations on their behalf.

'Taslima is not violating rules'

Is controversial Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen, who is living here in exile since 1994, violating rules by airing her views on every controversial issue without prior permission? Though a petition alleged so, the Supreme Court found nothing wrong in it.
With People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti likely to take her oath in the first week of April as the first woman chief minister in Jammu & Kashmir, the swearing-in ceremony is set to be a low key affair.

The state BJP leaders say Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend the ceremony.

I dont think that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the swearing-in ceremony. He is busy with the Assam elections and there is no information about him being present during the function, Arun Gupta, BJP state spokesperson told Mail Today.

Mehbooba said the focus of her new government would be on peace, reconciliation, and development in Jammu and Kashmir

The situation was different when the prime minister attended the oath ceremony of Mufti Muhammad Sayeed and his Cabinet, as it was the first time in history that the BJP was forming a government in Jammu and Kashmir, according to a senior BJP leader.

Leaders presence

In March 2015, PM Modi, BJP national president Amit Shah, former party president Lal Krishna Advani, Union Ministers Murli Manohar Joshi, Dr Jitendra Singh and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar were among the various leaders present when Mufti Muhammad Sayeed was sworn-in as the chief minister of the restive state.

However, PDP sources said that the party would possibly send an invite to the Prime Ministers Office.

The party hopes that PM Modi will find the time to attend the oath ceremony.

While Mehbooba returned to the Valley from Jammu on Sunday after meeting Governor N N Vohra, the PDP seemed to be in a fix over whether to bring back two estranged Parliament members - Muzaffer Hussain Baig and Tariq Hamid Karra - to the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not expected to attend the ceremony as he is busy with the Assam elections, a BJP state spokesperson told Mail Today

Both the MPs had accompanied Mehbooba when she met Governor N N Vohra on Saturday and staked a claim to form the government in the state.

Their being present with Mehbooba during the meeting with the governor has led to speculation that they could find space in the Cabinet.

Meanwhile, former J&K chief minister Omar Abdullah, who is the working president of National Conference, said PDP president Mehbooba was given over two months time to think over government formation in Jammu & Kashmir only because the party was in alliance with BJP.

Because it was a BJP alliance, Mehbooba was given two-and-a-half months to make up her mind. No such courtesy would've been extended to opposition, Omar said in a tweet.

After meeting the Governor, Mehbooba had thanked the BJP for extending support to her for forming the new government.

Mehbooba said the focus of her new government would be on peace, reconciliation and development in Jammu and Kashmir.

The leader of the BJP legislative party, Nirmal Singh, also met the governor and handed over the letter of support from the BJP to Mehbooba Mufti for formation of the next government.

PMs package

In another development, pledging full support to the new PDP-BJP government to be formed in Jammu and Kashmir, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the Centre may add to the prime ministers Rs 80,000 crore package announced in November last if resources permit.

There are two guiding factors. One is the agenda for governance and one is the prime ministers package. There is so much in the prime ministers package that even if our resources permit us year to year, we will add to it, he said.

Therefore, I think this is a great opportunity to have the popular government there which implements each one of these suggestions, he added.

Asked if the Centre would encourage them to implement the package, the finance minister said, we are fully committed on that".

PM Modi announced the package last year for building a modern and prosperous state.

The package includes money for providing relief and rehabilitation to 2014 flood victims, rehabilitation of West Pakistan refugees and Kashmiri Pandits, roads and highways, health and tourism.
They have been dubbed 'Moscow's war games', a deadly flexing of Russia's military might in the battlegrounds of Syria that has seen Vladimir Putin's forces tip the balance of power towards the once beleaguered leadership of Bashar al-Assad.

For ranged now in the name of Putin's war on terror is an awesome array of firepower, with Russia's iron man president deploying an arsenal of his latest weapons to Syria - operating from land, sea and air.

In the latest major campaign to support Assad, the Russians have helped to drive Islamic State out of the ancient city of Palmyra, inflicting what the army called a 'mortal blow' to militants who seized the city last year and dynamited its ancient temples.

The loss of Palmyra represents one of the biggest setbacks for the ultra-hardline Islamist group since it declared a caliphate in 2014 across large parts of Syria and Iraq.

As Putin's intervention turns the tide of Syria's five-year conflict in Assad's favour, MailOnline spotlights the terrifying arsenal of weapons, armour and warplanes that have become so pivotal to the fate of all sides inside Syria.

Arsenal: Putin has an awesome array of firepower at his disposal in warplanes, missiles and state of the art tanks with thousands of military personnel deployed in the war on terror from the air and sea

BY AIR: Fleet of fighter jets with precision-guided missiles so advanced some are even controlled by the pilot's helmet

While the Russian Command Group and Co-ordination teams are based at their embassy in Damascus, it is their base in the port city of Latakia, north western Syria, which is providing the hub for the air power. Dozens of daily sorties were flown from these headquarters when the campaign was at its height.

Based there is the astonishingly powerful Air Group of Su-34, Su-35S, Su-30SM, Su-24 and Su-25 combat aircraft, the Helicopter Group of Mi-24 and Mi-35 gunships, Mi-8 utility helicopters and the Airlift Contingent of An-124, II-76 and Tu-154 aircraft.

The supersonic Su-24 tactical bomber, Su-25, Su-30 and Su-34 are all equipped with air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles to assist Syrian ground troops and destroy enemy bases.

The KH-29L air-to-surface missile - weighing up to 690kg - is designed to level hardened ground targets including railways, bridges, factories, runways and aircraft in reinforced concrete shelters, according to the Tactical Missiles Corporation.

The fighter jets (pictured, the Su-34) stationed at Russia's main airbase in Latakia, north west Syria, have been responsible for the vast majority of strikes on ISIS and rebel locations

Costing 26-million each, Russia's Su-34 (pictured) possess a state-of-the-art fire control system, a phased array radar, and powerful electronic countermeasures (ECM)

The 80ft wide Su-24 (pictured during military exercise) can reach speeds of around 1,400mph and can climb at a rate of 29,000ft a second

WEST WATCHES 'IN HORROR' AT RUSSIA'S AMAZING FIREPOWER The Russian- and U.S.-brokered ceasefire that began on February 27 has helped significantly reduce hostilities but at least 67 civilians are said to have been killed in the frontline of Aleppo, which is partly held by rebels and surrounded by hostile forces. The Islamic State group and the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front have been excluded from the truce. Despite the withdrawal of some of the 6,000 military personnel now in country, Putin still has an incredible range of firepower at his disposal. This includes Spetsnaz Special Forces acting as 'advisors' to the Syrian Army and its Iranian-backed allies on the frontlines. This military hardware of warplanes, missile systems, artillery, state-of-the-art tanks, smart bombs and satellite technology has already changed the landscape in Syria while causing both alarm and outrage in Washington, Paris and London. Russia has invested 254billion under Putin in an armament programme in the last decade - and has been using Syria to test it out to devastating effect.. The Russians have surprised the West by launching long-range Kalibr cruise missiles at extremist targets from both frigates in the Caspian Sea and from a brand-new diesel-electric submarine in the Mediterranean. Significantly, Russian forces too have been testing their electronic warfare capabilities, using advanced equipment such as the Krasukha-4 mobile electronic warfare units designed to jam not only the rebels' battlefield communications but also radar and aircraft communications. One retired British officer, who commanded forces that fought alongside Syrian troops in the first Gulf War, told MailOnline last night: 'Putin and his military have totally changed the course of the conflict in an alarming but impressive way. 'He has out flanked, out thought and out bluffed the West both testing and showcasing his weapons, many of which have not been seen in such situations before. 'Everyone is watching with interest and an element of horror as more and more hardware is rolled out.' Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin openly admitted the weaponry being used in Syria has promoted the Russian army to a 'higher league,' promising that the gained combat experience would be thoroughly studied. Advertisement

Fitted with high explosive, penetrating warheads weighing up to 136kg, the rocket can reach speeds of up around 900mph. It has a range of up to six miles and can hit a target within an accuracy of just two metres.

It uses a 'semi active laser guidance system' whereby the pilot marks a target using a laser sight which the missile follows.

Russian warplanes are also using the smaller KH-25 missiles, weighing around 300kg, to destroy ships, armoured vehicles, ammunition caches and oil reserves.

Meanwhile the 80ft long, 60ft wide Su-24 can reach speeds of around 1,400mph and can climb at a rate of 29,000ft a second, according to experts at Military Factory.

It is also equipped with a six barreled GSh-6-23 cannon and 500 rounds of 23mm ammo.

Russia claimed a Su-24 bomber destroyed the ISIS command centre in the Idlib on February 11. ISIS's presence in the province is disputed.

In November, a Russian Su-24 was shot down by two Turkish jets after the country claimed their airspace was violated. Both of the flight crew ejected before the plane crashed in Syria.

Russia responded by arming its Su-34 jets with AA-10 and AA-11 air-to-air missiles.

Costing 26 million and dubbed the 'Fullback', the two-seat Su-34 possesses a state-of-the-art fire control system, a phased array radar, and a powerful electronic countermeasures (ECM) suite.

The AA-10 and AA-12 air-to-air missiles can hit targets from 60miles away and, when fully loaded, have a maximum speed of Mach 1.8. They fly to a range of 2,500 miles before needing to refuel.

The A-11 Archer is the best short range air-to-air missile in Russia's possession, according to military experts at Federation of American Scientists.

The smart rocket is connected to the pilots' helmets, which they use to target enemy aircraft.

The technology also means the missiles can be fired at jets flying either side of the aircraft, which a traditional system of targeting and guidance cannot manage.

Just like the AA-10, the AA-11 is designed to destroy helicopters, drones and cruise missiles - but can also engage modern and 'next generation' fighter jets.

The heat seeking AA-10, which carries a 39kg warhead, can intercept flying targets travelling at a speed of up to 2,000mph.

CRUISE MISSILES: White swan that carries KH-101 and KH-55 cruise missiles

Russia responded to the downing of a passenger jet over Egypt's Sinai province in November by deploying its colossal 24 foot long, two tonne KH-101 cruise missile for the first time.

Carried by a Tu-160 bomber dubbed the 'White Swan', the cruise missile can be fired 6,000 miles from its target, flies as low 30m off the ground to avoid enemy radar, and is said to have an accuracy of between 25m to 30m.

Its astonishing range means the KH-101 could be launched from Moscow to hit an enemy base in Syria.

Known as the 'White Swan' by its pilots, the Tu-160 Strategic Bomber (pictured) is the heaviest combat aircraft ever built

Russia deployed its colossal two tonne KH-101 cruise missile (pictured) in Syria shortly after a passenger jet filled with its citizens was downed in Egypt's Sinai province in November

Russia's defence ministry released footage of the 24 foot long cruise missile being launched over an undisclosed location in Syria

The KH-101 and its predecessor, the KH-55 (pictured), are fired from Russia's long range strategic bombers including the Tu-160

The satellite-guided smart rocket hugs the terrain using a digital map, which is downloaded onto its on board computer before it is fired.

Both the KH-101 and its predecessor, the KH-55, are fired from Russia's largest long range strategic bombers, the Tu-95 and the Tu-160.

The Tu-160 Strategic Bomber is the heaviest combat aircraft ever built. It can accelerate to a maximum speed of 1,380 mph, climb to a maximum altitude of 49,235 feet and has a range of 7,643 miles.

It is capable of carrying up to 12 Kh-55 cruise missiles and Kh-15 short range missiles. It is also capable of carrying with nuclear and 'regular' bombs.

A nuclear version of the missile, the KH-102, can carry a 250 kiloton warhead, which the United States has expressed concerns about.

GUNSHIPS: Helicopters fitted with tank-destroying rockets and cannons

Russia has three helicopter gunships operating in Syria - the Mi-35s, Mi-24Ps and the new generation Mi-28, which is designed to carry out search and destroy missions on tanks and armoured vehicles.

Syrian TV crews filmed what is believed to be an Mi-28 near Humaymin air base in Syria, Russia based Sputnik news reported.

Called the 'Night Hunter' by pilots, the Mi-28 is equipped with 16 tank-destroying missiles, the Shturm and the Ataka, one unguided S-13 rocket and a turreted 2A42 cannon that fires up to 550 30mm shells a minute.

Called the 'Night Hunter' by pilots, the Mi-28 (pictured) is equipped with 16 tank destroying missiles

It can also carry Ataka missiles (pictured), an upgraded version of the Shturm, which has a longer range of around 6,000m

The Mi-28's 30mm cannon, the 2A42, weighs around 115kg and can hit armoured ground targets from around 1,500m away

Amateur footage from the Syrian town of Kafr Nabudah showed two Russian Mi-24 helicopters (pictured) firing rockets at rebels in the area

The helicopter is said to be one of the new pieces of equipment being tested in Syria and is being used to destroy tanks and other armoured vehicles.

The Mi-28's 30mm cannon, the 2A42, weighs around 115kg and can hit armoured ground targets from around 1,500m away

It has a range of up to 5,000m, hits the target travelling at 400m per second and its warhead can penetrate around 560mm of armour.

Up to 16 missiles can be fitted on the Mi-28, which can operate at any time of the day and in severe weather.

Dramatic footage from October showed two Mi-24 helicopters firing rockets on a Syrian town which was thought to be occupied by US trained rebel fighters.

SMART BOMBS: Satellite-guided 'smart missiles' that move at the speed of sound

Syria has been a testing ground for Russia's precision guided bombs.

Its warplanes have deployed the satellite guided KAB-500S to devastating effect on both ISIS and rebel strongholds - and plans to test the smaller KAB-250 in the conflict too.

The state of the art KAB-500, which made its combat debut in Syria in September 2015, is guided by Russia's space based GLONASS global positioning system (GPS).

The satellite guided KAB-500 (pictured) made its combat debut in Syria in September

Supersonic smart bomb, the KAB-250 (pictured), is also thought to have been used in the Syrian conflict

The missile can be fired from heights of between 500m and 5,000m, and can be moving at the speed of sound when they strike their intended target with an accuracy of between 7m and 12m.

It is designed to destroy munitions depots, factories and ships in dock.

Footage from October showed a Russian Su-34 bomber dropping a KAB-500 on a Syrian rebel group's headquarters.

Another video released by Russia's MoD showed a KAB-500 being used to destroy an ISIS artillery stronghold in Latakia.

Footage from October showed a Russian Su-34 bomber dropping a KAB-500 on a Syrian rebel group's headquarters near Raqqa

Another video released by Russia's MoD showed a KAB-500 being used to destroy an ISIS artillery stronghold in Latakia (pictured)

Konstantin Sivkov of the Russian Academy of Rocket, Missile and Artillery Sciences claimed the rocket was used against ISIS.

He wrote in the Military Industrial: 'Our aircraft have employed the latest product of Russia's defense industry, the KAB-250, to eliminate targets in the immediate vicinity of civilian infrastructure.

The KAB-250 was made to destroy lighter, thin skinned vehicles and other small enemy installations.

BY SEA: Black Sea fleet provides air defence 'umbrella' and boasts quietest submarine in the world

Russia has a Black Sea Fleet of at least ten ships headed by a Slava class guided missile cruiser in eastern Mediterranean waters, which provide logistics and an air defence 'umbrella' over Latakia and Tartus regions.

It includes a diesel electric submarine known as the Rostov-on-Don, which launched Kalibr cruise missiles against targets near the Syrian city of Raqqa, ISIS's de facto capital on November 17.

Commissioned in late December 2014, the submarine is a Project 636 Varshavyanka sub deemed to be one of the quietest in the world.

A diesel electric submarine known as the Rostov-on-Don (pictured) launched Kalibr cruise missiles against targets near the Syrian city of Raqqa

The anti-aircraft system on Russia's Moskva missile cruiser, which was stationed in the Mediterranean Sea, off the coast of Syria, in December

Russia fired 26 long range 3M-54K missiles (pictured), known as 'Sizzlers', from Kalibr-NK missile systems on four warships stationed in the Caspian Sea

The stealth submarine is so advanced it is dubbed the 'black hole' because it is so hard to detect. It is the second submarine out of six planned for the Black Sea Fleet by the end of 2016.

It is backed up by Buyan-M class warships - four of which launched a barrage of 26 cruise missiles which blitzed ISIS targets located more than 930 miles away.

Each Buyan-class ship carries eight 3M-54K cruise missiles - known as 'Sizzlers' - which are 27ft long and carry a 450kg warhead.

The missile system is designed to destroy submarines, other 'surface vessels' and 'slow moving targets whose coordinates are known in advance'. The rockets have a range of up to 410miles.

Despite their 'relatively small launch weight of 1,570kg, the rockets can 'blow up very large surface craft,' according to experts at Global Security.

They added: 'The missile's moderate weight allows even warships with a small displacement to take aboard quite a few of such deadly weapons.'

BY LAND: Russian tanks can stop 'any missile in the world' and the 'Grizzly' that can defend attacks from 24 angles

Russia has sent at least 24 T-90 tanks to Syria and this month, they were used to push back the forces opposing Assad around Aleppo.

A local rebel commander told the Turkey-based Yeni Safak website his troops were attacked by more than 80 T-72 and T-90 tanks, although that number has not been verified.

The T-90s are the most advanced tanks in Russia's arsenal and are fitted with an anti-tank missile system that can stop any missile in the world.

Some of the 24 T-90 tanks (pictured, T-90s on training exercise outside Moscow) Russia has sent to Syria have been used in the recent offensive in Aleppo

A local rebel commander told the Turkey-based Yeni Safak website his troops were attacked by more than 80 T-72 and T-90 tanks (pictured, on the Red Square in Moscow)

The T-90 tank, one of the most advanced in the world, is armed with a 2A46M cannon which fires 125mm shells

When they were first transported to Syria, they were seen as the latest heavy armour by Russia to prop up Assad's forces in the ongoing civil war.

The armoured tank, which costs around 3million each to produce, is made from Kontakt-5 armour, which deflects the true force of the blast over a larger surface area to reduce damage.

It is also armed with a 2A46M cannon which fires 125mm shells, as well as AT-11 missiles that can destroy tanks and low flying helicopters up to three miles away, according to Military Today.

Russia has also deployed SA-17 surface-to-air missiles in an area along the Turkish border known as the Azaz Corridor, a major infiltration route for jihadist and other anti-government forces.

The SA-17, also known as the Grizzly, can engage up to 24 targets flying from any direction at any one time, experts at Army Recognition have said.

It can shoot down strategic and tactical jets, cruise missiles, air launched rockets, guided bombs and helicopters.

The missiles can reach an altitude of 24,000m and have a range of up to 31 miles, depending on conditions.

Russia's SA-17 missile (pictured), also known as the Grizzly, can engage up to 24 targets flying from any direction at any one time

Russia is also said to be equipped with 25 D30 Howitzers (pictured) that fire 122mm rounds

Russia's Smerch Mulitiple Launch Rocket System (pictured) has a 12 launchers which fires 300mm 3M-55K missiles at targets between 12 and 43miles away

Russia is also said to be equipped with 25 D30 Howitzers that fire 122mm rounds and 12 Smerch Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS).

The Smerch has a 12 launchers which fires 300mm 3M-55K missiles at targets between 12 and 43miles away.

The rockets, which are used to destroy vehicles and other missile systems, are around 24ft long and weigh 800kg.

Satellite images from October showed 12 towed artillery pieces - 'probably 122 mm D-30 howitzers' - deployed at Russia's Latakia air base, according to defence and security intelligence organisation, IHS Jane's.

BY INTERNET: The Krasukha-4 Land Jammer can disrupt radars and even low-flying satellites

The Krasukha-4 jammer is the newest electronic warfare system in the Russian arsenal.

As a broadband multi-functional jamming platform, it could disrupt ground-based radars, airborne radars (especially AWACS systems) and low earth orbit satellites.

The jammer is said to cause permanent damage to targeted radio-electronic devices.

The Russian contingent in Syria is believed to possess a Krasukha-4 platform, which has a reported range of 200-miles.

It is claimed the Krasukha-4 could blind some AWACS planes and make it difficult for NATO to generate the air picture of the eastern Mediterranean and Syria.

Russia's might in Syria is believed to possess a Krashuka-4 platform (pictured) which could disrupt ground-based radars, airborne radars (especially AWACS systems) and low earth orbit satellites




Fifteen years after a woman disappeared, her wealthy car dealer husband is facing trial for the fourth time in a case where no body or weapon has ever been found.

On September 12, 2001, a babysitter noticed Michele Harris left her minivan, which still had the keys in the ignition, at the end of a long driveway leading up to the 200acre house she shared with her estranged husband in Spencer, New York. She was nowhere to be found.

Husband Calvin Harris was indicted for her murder in 2005, but after an overturned conviction, mistrial and hung jury, the jury selection for the fourth trial is scheduled to start on Monday in Schoharie, New York.

Calvin Harris (left) was convicted for the murder of his estranged wife Michele (right) in 2005 after she disappeared on September 12, 2001. But her body and a murder weapon have never been recovered

A day after the verdict in 2005, a local farmhand came forward to say he saw Michele Harris and a man in his mid-20s. He was found guilty in the second trial, but it was overturned based on trial-court errors. Pictured, the couple with their four children

Michele Harris was last seen on the night of the September 11 terror attacks, and the babysitter noticed she was missing the next morning.

Harris told police they could search his home and his vehicles, according to court papers.

A prosecution expert later testified that small amounts of Michele's blood were found in the kitchen and garage of the house, some of it cleaned up.

Prosecutors argued the blood splatters supported the theory that Calvin Harris hit his wife with a blunt object, cleaned up the evidence and buried her somewhere in the woods, even though her body was never recovered.

He was wealthy from his family's car dealerships and court papers say he told people she would not get half his business as their divorce loomed.

Defense attorneys argued that there was an extremely small volume of blood and the age of the stains could not be determined.

A jury found Calvin Harris guilty of second-degree murder in 2007.

But one day after the verdict, a local farmhand came forward to say he saw Michele Harris and a man in his mid-20s at the end of their driveway at about 5:30am on September 12, 2001.

A jury in the third trial was unable to come to a unanimous decision after 11 days of deliberating. The jury selection process will begin on Monday in the fourth trial

Harris is pictured with his children, (from left) Taylor, 20, Jenna, 17, Cayla, 19, and Tanner, 15. The four teenagers have said they believe their father is innocent of killing their mother

With that information, Harris' lawyers won him a new trial. The 2009 conviction in that trial was also thrown out by New York's top court in 2012.

The Court of Appeals cited trial errors including the judge's handling of hearsay testimony and a prospective juror who acknowledged having a pre-existing opinion in the high-profile case.

Harris has said: 'I didn't have any involvement in Michele's disappearance. I would never hurt the mother of my children, and I would never do anything to hurt them.'

A third trial was moved more than 100miles northeast of the Harris' home in Spencer. Defense lawyers had argued for a change of venue, saying Harris couldn't get a fair trial where he was twice convicted.

The jury at the Schoharie County Courthouse, New York, however, were unable to reach a unanimous verdict, after 11 days of deliberating.

The judge in the last trial barred defense attorney Bruce Barket from introducing evidence that two workers in the area from Texas were involved in Harris' death.

Barket is seeking permission from the new judge to introduce that evidence again. The defense team said they excavated new, 'corroborative' evidence from a burn pit once owned by one of the Texans, including charred fabric and a possible bra strap.

'When this whole story is told, this will be one more rung on the ladder, the top of which we are not at yet,' Barket said.

District Attorney Kirk Martin would not comment for this story. Authorities have previously said they eliminated the other suspects during the investigation.

The judge is expected to make a decision on Barket's request soon.

The couple's four children have stood by their father throughout the years, maintaining his innocence and appearing in court to show their support.
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It is one of the most dangerous journeys in the world, involving treacherous mountains, a network of fast-flowing canals and the fearsome Macedonian special forces.

Yet hundreds of illegal migrants are still attempting the secretive journey from Greece across to Macedonia, from where they aim to travel north through Serbia and Croatia to western Europe.

The closure of the border, combined with the Turkey deal that shut off the southern routes, have filled the migrants with more desperation than ever. As darkness fell, MailOnline joined a group of 60 Pakistanis as they attempted the perilous nighttime journey, risking their lives in search of a better future.

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Danger: A group of migrants walk along the route towards the Macedonian border into Greece as thousands remain camped in squalid conditions.

Blocked: The route may be officially shut down but hundreds of illegal migrants are still attempting the secretive journey from Greece across to Macedonia, from where they aim to travel north through Serbia and Croatia to western Europe

Desperate: As the Balkan route into western Europe closes, hundreds are still making the perilous journey illegally across the mountains and through canals into Macedonia

The migrants gathered at a petrol station a few minutes from the squalid Idomeni camp on the border between Greece and Macedonia. This, together with a hotel across the road, has become the main hub for people smuggling and illegal migration in the area.

Migrants with money in their pockets are quickly sniffed out by the people smugglers, who try to fleece them for a taxi to the heart of Europe costing 2,100. Those who cant afford it form into loose groups and, when the weather allows, they pack their possessions into backpacks and make their own way to the border.

MailOnline met up with travelling partners Shahid Razan, 33, from Taliban-Infested Peshawar in northern Pakistan, and 22-year-old Ikram Ullah, from peaceful Lahore.

Mr Ullah  who admits his life was not in danger but said he made the journey because he wants to get knowledge from other cultures  has tried unsuccessfully to cross the border four times. Mr Razan, meanwhile, who says his family cannot leave the house for fear of the Taliban, has been arrested at the border 11 times in the last month.

Lets see what happens. Maybe this time well get over. But I am very disheartened, Mr Razan told MailOnline as he tied up his homemade orange backpack.

This will be my twelfth time, and it will be my last. If I am not successful, I will apply for asylum here in Greece. I will have security of life, but it will be very hard to get a job.

March: The migrants gather at a petrol station a few minutes from the squalid Idomeni camp on the border between Greece and Macedonia. This, together with a shady hotel across the road, has become the main hub for people smuggling and illegal migration in the area

Danger: Those who cant afford the 2,100 people-trafficker fee form into loose groups and, when the weather allows, they pack their possessions into backpacks and make their own way to the border

Camp: Desperate families and individuals are squatting at a petrol station close to the Macedonian border where gangs who claim to be able to traffic people into Europe operate

Failure: More than 985,000 people have travelled this route since the start of last year, but now that the border has been sealed and Macedonia has deployed special forces along the fence, many fewer migrants are getting through

More than 985,000 people have travelled this route since the start of last year, but now that the border has been sealed and Macedonia has deployed special forces along the fence, dramatically fewer migrants are getting through.

The pair were planning to join a group of about 60 other migrants and approach the border in a pack. Of the two available routes  across the mountains and cross the canals  they had chosen the water crossing, as it took only three hours, whereas the mountainous route can take up to nine.

The water is up to here because of the rain, said Mr Ullah, gesturing to his chest. Last night, four children were drowned in the water.

Mr Razan, who left behind a wife and one-year-old baby two months ago, said that he was afraid of being swept away, but he felt he had no choice.

I have run out of money so I cannot go back to Pakistan, he told MailOnline. Last night I couldnt sleep because I was missing my family. I have a bad headache from the tension. I think I have made a mistake in coming, but I have no choice but to go on.

As darkness deepened and the time of departure approached, the pair took heart from the fact that two of their friends had successfully crossed the border the day before. They had managed to jump into a train, they said, and were now in Belgrade, Serbia.

They ran after the train, caught the train and went, Mr Razan said. But yesterday we were arrested by police and taken back here.

Mr Ullah added: We have both had bad luck. But maybe tonight it will change.

Danger: MailOnline met up with travelling partners Shahid Razan, 33, from Taliban-Infested Peshawar in northern Pakistan, and 22-year-old Ikram Ullah, from peaceful Lahore.

Fear: The route is patrolled by tough Macedonian forces and one migrant MailOnline spoke to had tried eleven times in the last month to get across

In the pitch blackness, a group of migrants began to prepare for the journey out of sight behind the petrol station. Mr Razan and Mr Ullah joined them, as did MailOnline.

The atmosphere was tense and few words were exchanged as the migrants, dressed in an assortment of odd clothes and with packs of various sizes on their backs, moved off along the road towards the border.

When a police car cruised past, the anxiety was palpable and nobody made eye contact. But it did not stop, and further along the road, the migrants regrouped at another petrol station, an unauthorised migrant campsite and the final jumping-off point for Macedonia.

After warming their hands at a small bonfire behind the carpark and making final preparations, the migrants set off once again in a straggling line. This time they left the road and struck a new course across a succession of fields and through woodland.

This journey is very difficult, said Adnan Hassan, 27, who had fallen into step alongside MailOnline. The canals are very deep and dangerous and it is completely black and dark. It is not a journey for nice people of good standing.

The group, which included a small number of women but no children, continued in silence up towards the border, where the lights of Macedonian villages could be seen glimmering in the distance.

The fence between the two countries, which was fortified with a second row of razor-wire earlier this month, runs for a distance of about 19miles. Macedonia has announced dramatic plans to extend the fence by 200miles and recruit new guards armed with tasers to stop the flow of migrants through the continent.

The migrants must hike to the end of it before attempting to slip across, and they must do so before even more draconian measures come into force.

One popular route  and the one that the migrants were planning to take tonight  leads in a loop around the fence and across a bridge at Smokvitsa, a small village just inside Macedonia, from where migrants can make their way north.

Fear: The route is patrolled by tough Macedonian forces and one migrant MailOnline spoke to had tried eleven times in the last month to get across

Tense: In the pitch blackness, a group of migrants began to prepare for the journey out of sight behind the petrol station. The atmosphere was tense

Out of sight: Few words were exchanged as the migrants, dressed in an assortment of odd clothes and with packs of various sizes on their backs, moved off along the road towards the border behind the petrol station

Perilous: It is one of the most dangerous journeys in the world, involving treacherous mountains, a network of fast-flowing canals and the fearsome Macedonian special forces but many are still trying to pass

Throughout the circuitous route to the border, there was no sign of Greek border police. The difficult part is yet to come, said Mr Hassan. The worst canals are on the other side of the border, and that is where you meet the Macedonian police and army, who are very tough.

Sometimes, he said, the army was good-humoured and simply ushered the migrants into lorries to be taken back to Greece. However, he had been beaten by soldiers a number of times, he said, and on one occasion they had nearly broken his arm.

Mr Razan has also been beaten. The fifth time I tried, they treated me badly, he said. A group of us managed to get to the capital, Skopje, but we were caught and put on a train back to Greece.

When we were on the train, the police demanded that we give them 6 each, otherwise they would beat us. I didnt have any money left, so they hit me with sticks.

MailOnline turned back before crossing illegally into Macedonia. The migrants disappeared into the darkness, surprisingly quickly and silently.

Two days later, MailOnline managed to contact Mr Ullah and Mr Razan by telephone.

We were unsuccessful again, said Mr Ullah, dejectely. We encountered too many soldiers and they even had armoured cars. They were prepared for us and there was no way we could get through. Nobody wants to be arrested or beaten again, so we will wait a few days and make another attempt.

Mr Razan had not yet decided whether he was now going to resign himself to remaining in Greece or whether he would make a thirteenth attempt.
Who needs algebra?

That question muttered by many a frustrated student over the years has become a vigorous debate among American educators.

Now a provocative new book argues that required algebra has become an unnecessary stumbling block that forces millions to drop out of high school or college.

'One out of 5 young Americans does not graduate from high school. This is one of the worst records in the developed world. Why? The chief academic reason is they failed ninth-grade algebra,' said political scientist Andrew Hacker, author of The Math Myth And Other STEM Delusions.

A provocative new book argues that required algebra has become an unnecessary stumbling block that forces millions to drop out of high school. One in four 9th graders don't finish high school after failing algebra

Hacker, a professor emeritus at Queens College, argues that, at most, only five per cent of jobs make use of algebra and other advanced math courses. He favors a curriculum that focuses more on statistics and basic numbers sense and less on (y - 3)2 = 4y - 12.

'Will algebra help you understand the federal budget?' he asked.

Many U.S. educators, including the architects of the Common Core standards, disagree, saying math just needs to be taught more effectively. It's fine for students to have quantitative skills, they say, but algebra is important, too.

'Every study I've ever seen of workers in whole bunches of fields shows that you have to understand formulas, you have to understand relationships,' said Philip Uri Treisman, a professor of mathematics and of public affairs at the University of Texas. 'Algebra is the tool for consolidating your knowledge of arithmetic.'

Bill McCallum, a professor at the University of Arizona who played a lead role in developing the Common Core standards for math, said he would oppose any division of K-12 students into an algebra track and a non-algebra track.

'You might say only a certain percentage of kids will go on to use algebra, but we don't know which kids those are,' he said.

In New York City, home to the nation's largest public school system with 1.1 million pupils, just 52 percent of the students who took last year's statewide Regents test in Algebra I passed, mirroring statistics elsewhere in the country.

The Math Myth & Other STEM Delusions by political scientist Andrew Hacker argues for stats instead

Rather than scaling back on algebra, New York City educators have announced an 'Algebra for All' initiative that aims to keep students on track by providing specialized math teachers in fifth grade, before algebra is introduced.

'We believe in high standards,' said Carol Mosesson-Teig, director of mathematics for the city Department of Education. 'And we believe that the best way to serve the students is to strengthen the instruction.'

Eighteen-year-old Isaiah Aristy took the algebra Regents test twice and failed it both times.

Aristy, now a freshman at the Borough of Manhattan Community College who is hoping for a career in law enforcement, said he was good at math until he hit algebra.

'When it came to x and y and graphing, that's when I started dropping, and it made me feel low,' he said. 'But we don't need to learn what x and y is. When in life are we going to write on paper, 'X and y needs to be this?''

Like millions of community college students across the U.S., Aristy must pass a remedial math class with no college credit, and then pass at least one college-level math class, if he wants to get an associate's degree.

But Aristy isn't just repeating Algebra I again. BMCC is one of about 50 community colleges in 14 state that offer an alternative track called Quantway, developed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, that seeks to develop quantitative literacy.

'It includes some basic algebra concepts, but you don't learn how to factor polynomials or solve complex equations,' said math department Chairman Fred Peskoff.

Project director Karon Klipple said the foundation devised Quantway and a statistics track called Statway in 2011 because of the sheer numbers of students dropping out of community college due to algebra. Sixty to 80 percent of community college students nationwide test into remedial math, and most don't pass it, she said.

'This is where their hopes and aspirations go to die,' Klipple said. 'They're in college to try to make a better life for themselves, and they're stopped by mathematics.'
Former sheriff's deputy Marty Rainey (pictured) has been found dead in his Missouri jail cell

A former sheriff's deputy who was facing federal and state charges of sexually abusing women and enticing a minor into prostitution has been found dead in his jail cell.

Marty Rainey, 52, of Sullivan, who formerly worked as a deputy in Gasconade County in east-central Missouri, was found dead Saturday morning in the Ste. Genevieve County jail, sheriff's Maj. Jason Schott told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Missouri state police are investigating but Rainey's death appears to be a suicide, Schott said.

However, he declined to say whether Rainey had been on suicide watch.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol's investigation of the 'in-custody death' is standard procedure, Schott added.

He was being held in federal custody awaiting a detention hearing on March 31, the Gasconade County Republican reports.

Court documents allege Rainey would threaten or coerce women into having sex while he was on duty. One alleged victim was under 17 at the time.

A federal grand jury indicted Rainey on March 2 in St. Louis on a charge of enticement of a minor to engage in a commercial sex act and four counts of deprivation of rights under color of law.

Rainey (left, on duty when he was a sheriff's deputy) was facing federal and state charges of sexually abusing women and enticing a minor into prostitution

Rainey (pictured in court) was being held in federal custody awaiting a detention hearing on March 31

Rainey, who served as a police officer for the Missouri communities of Hermann and Rosebud while also doing the deputy job, had already been charged in state court in January last year with two counts each of sexual assault and acceding to corruption by a public servant, as well as statutory rape and use of a child in a sexual performance.

The charges all stem from incidents that allegedly occurred between January and August 2012, according to the Gasconade County Republican.

He resigned in November 2012, when the allegations against him were first made.

Rainey's attorney, Christian Goeke, said federal marshals told him about Rainey's death. Goeke had been trying to get Rainey released on bail before trial on the federal charges.

Prosecutors opposed the release, partly because of the serious nature of the charges and concerns about Rainey's mental health.

Jonathan Pohlmann pleaded guilty to a federal charge of conspiracy to violate civil rights on Monday

'(Rainey's death) is certainly not an outcome that our office was seeking. I have sympathy for this family,' U.S. Attorney Richard Callahan said.

Rainey's friend Jonathan Pohlmann pleaded guilty to a federal charge of conspiracy to violate civil rights on Monday.
The parade has been a fixture since the 1800s

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New York's Fifth Avenue was aglow with color and laughter Sunday morning as the annual Easter Parade filled the street with extraordinary hats, beautiful bonnets and quirky costumes - worn by both people and pets.

The tradition, which has run since the 1880s, began as a way for the middle and upper classes to show off their church finery after the Easter Sunday service, but has since turned into a way for people to show off their creativity and imagination.

From the simple but sweet to the hilariously outlandish, the boundaries really were pushed this year, with people from all over the world competing for the biggest, craziest and most avant-garde costumes and hats.

Cartoon hero: In the 1800s, the Easter Parade was a chance for people to show off the fashions of the day - this man, seen at Sunday's parade seems to be showing off fashions of the future, in colorful pop-art style.

Busting shapes: While some people went for outlandish costumes, others focused on intricate headwear, like this mindbending geometrical creation. The parade takes place each year on New York's Fifth Avenue, between 49th and 57th streets

Basket cases: For some it was about celebrating Easter - for others it was about BECOMING Easter. The parade starts after the Easter Sunday service and takes place near three churches: St. Patrick's Cathedral, Saint Thomas Church and 5th Avenue Presbyterian Church

Just like every year the parade began at around 10am, after the earliest Easter Sunday services at the three nearest churches - St. Patrick's Cathedral, Saint Thomas Church and 5th Avenue Presbyterian Church.

And just like every year, parishioners, visitors and sightseers gathered to take in views of the wackiest, most spectacular clothing in the city.

They weren't disappointed - with three-foot-high flower towers on people's heads, human 'chocolate rabbits' hopping down the street and a bevy of superheroines, there was plenty for all to see. Even dogs got in on the act - although what they made of the event is impossible to guess.

Flower power: In the mid-1800s, the parade was just an opportunity for the wealthy to show off their Sunday best, but it gradually turned into a more flamboyant show, with hats adorned with elaborate paper flowers - a tradition taken to extremes today

Show of colors: Today the parade is open to everyone, and the focus is on fun and creativity rather than showing off wealth

Doggy style: Even pets get involved, although it looks like he might not have been able to resist the marshmallow birds on his hat

The New York Easter Parade began in the mid-1800s as churches along Fifth Avenue began to be decorated with increasingly elaborate flower displays. Congregations coming out of Easter services would walk along the street to take in the beautiful displays on each of the churches.

As the floral displays became more complex, the ladies who walked from one church to the next began to match them with flowers in their own clothes, and what was once a casual walk up the street became a yearly fixture.

In 1873, a newspaper report about Easter at Christ Church said: 'More than half the congregation were ladies, who displayed all the gorgeous and marvelous articles of dress ... and the appearance of the body of the church thus vied in effect and magnificence with the pleasant and tasteful array of flowers which decorated the chancel.'

On reflection: The parade attracts thousands of onlookers - including many who are as dressed up as those taking part in the walk

Shadow play: This baby bunny seems confused by his new shadow. Temperatures at the start of the parade, around 10am, were cool but bright - however, colder winds blew in as the day continued

Pet vet: People from all walks of life joined in the parade, including this former Marine

As the years passed the clothing became more elaborate, and began to outstrip the religious significance of the day - much to the annoyance of traditionalists.

But for the well-to-do ladies who flaunted the latest and most fashionable clothing - and the poorer people who would come to discover what the fashions of the day were - this became one of the year's big calendar dates.

Inevitably shops and merchants got in on the act, with clothing stores and hat-makers using the event as a great way to boost trade each year. By the start of the 20th century it was like a second Christmas for retailers.

Of course, many objected to the display of extravagant wealth, just as others thrilled to it. During the Great Depression, the unemployed would parade alongside the wealthy in protest, carrying banners that complained of their poverty.

Egg heads: The parade attracts people from all over the world, not just New Yorkers, as the names on these hats reveal

Seeing green: Even celebrities, like Kermit the Frog, got in on the act

You've been framed:Some of the costumes were works of art - or wanted to be, at least

Small but perfectly formed: This man didn't want to make a big thing out of his parade headgear

In 1933, a comical Broadway revue by Irving Berlin, 'As Thousands Cheer,' debuted. It featured the song Easter Parade, which Berlin had been perfecting for 15 years, and was a massive success.

The lyrics - 'In your Easter bonnet with all the frills upon it/You'll be the grandest fella in the Easter Parade' - were designed to capture the magic and pageantry of the procession.

And the song became so popular that Berlin spun it off into its own film, 1948's Easter Parade, starring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland.

Got it licked: A parade puppy, 'Coco Chanel', licks the face of four-year-old Ava Anderson, being held by mother Dace of Latvia

Birds of a feather: Hats covered in marshmallow treats might not be stable, but at least the wearers won't run out of energy quickly

Bunny business: Two very different takes on a rabbit costume at the parace

Today, the parade is less about wealth and taste, and more about shaking off the spring chill with brightly colored clothing and creative energy.

It attracts people from all over the world, who gather to show off their inventiveness - or enjoy the inventiveness of others.

And, of course, it makes for some wonderful pictures!

Big hitter: Superheroes were a popular theme during the parade. Here, The Incredible Hulk takes on a photographer
A new trail to legalise the sale of raw milk will begin later this year

Selling raw milk is currently illegal in Australia, but producers are making a renewed push to legislate its sale.

Farmers are able to drink their own milk, however it is not available to the public.

There's a lot of ignorance. People don't understand the facts about raw milk and how it can be done well, raw milk dairy farmer Mark Tyler told ABC News.

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Selling raw milk is currently illegal in Australia (pictured), but producers are making a renewed push to legislate its sale

Across Australia people are legally obtaining raw milk for drinking via herd shares which allow people to buy a share in a cow and then pay a farmer to board and milk the animal (pictured)

Raw milk is unpasteurised, which the Australian health department says can lead to the growth of bacteria like E. coli- which can be harmful to humans.

Working within the current legislation has been difficult, and Mr Tyler has been charged by authorities for selling raw milk illegally.

A mistrial was declared after an appeal to the Supreme court in October, but a new trail to legalise the sale of raw milk to the public will begin later this year.

Mark (right) and Helen (left) Tyler, on trial for selling raw milk, with supporter Rachel Tyson (centre)

'A farmer has a choice if we can get this legalised and simplify the whole procedure so that it is something people can do and do well,' Mr Tyler said.

Across Australia people are legally obtaining raw milk for drinking via herd shares which allow people to buy a share in a cow and then pay a farmer to board and milk the animal.

They then receive the milk from 'their own cow', thus it is not being illegally sold.

Mr Tyler called mass dairy farming practices into question- this photo shows dairy farm in Queensland

DANGERS OF RAW MILK ACCORDING TO HEALTH DEPT. Unpasteurised milk should never be consumed as it has an increased risk of individuals acquiring gastrointestinal illness from pathogens such as campylobacter, cryptosporidiosis, shiga toxin-producing e. Coli, and listeria monocytogenes.

The Department has been notified of several children contracting cryptosporidiosis and haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a rare but potentially fatal condition which can be caused by shiga toxin and verotoxin producing E.coli. All children had consumed unpasteurised milk sold as 'bath milk'.

Everyone should be discouraged from consuming unpasteurised milk products or feeding these products to children. Advertisement

Mr Tyler runs a herd share programme at his Moo View Dairy farm in Willunga Hill, South Australia and said he has people from all walks of life investing in his cows so they can get unpasteurised milk.

'There are professional sportsmen, university professors, doctors - you name it, every profession from tradespeople to other farmers,' he said.

Mr Tyler, who started his cowshare programme in 2008, believes the government banned unpasteurised milk as a way to control the dairy market and to support 'big business'.

'The more you look into it the more you realise how little facts there are about raw milk and there are problems with pasteurised milk,' he said.

Mr Tyler is confident that raw milk is safe if produced in the right way.

'I've drunk raw milk all my life, I always lived on this farm. I drunk it here and certainly our children have grown up on it.

South Australian dairy farmer Mark Tyler (pictured) has drunk raw milk all his life and raised his three children on it too

Mr Tyler said he limits the risk of harmful bacteria  such as E.coli - associated with unpasteurised milk and that pasteurising laws put in place 70-years-ago are now outdated.

'We've got a very modern milking machine  the dangers that were there when pasteurising came in is a world apart from modern dairy equipment,' he said.

'Milk isn't squeezed into buckets surrounded by flies with 'cows flicking manure everywhere' anymore, he said, so 'the situation is so different.'

In recent years the dairy farmer has noticed a surge in demand for raw milk as part of the raw food movement.

Raw milk (pictured) is unpasteurised, which the Australian health department says can lead to the growth of bacteria like E. coli- which can be harmful to humans

Advocates claim it is more nutritious, easier to digest and contains probiotics - and that it's better for cows and farms.

Former CSIRO microbiologist and now dairy consultant, Ron Hull said it was now time to change the rules.

'Now the industry is deregulated there is much more competition on world markets,' Dr Hull told ABC News.

'There's now a real need for farmers to run their own micro-dairies and sell raw drinking milk and raw cheeses.'

Raw milk farmers set up a cooperative this year and will push political parties to legalise the sale of unpasteurised milk.
An Idaho pastor who was shot eight times outside his church's parking lot has reassured church-goers that he's okay and will be back soon.

KREM-TV in Spokane says Tim Remington recorded a three-minute video message that was played at The Altar Church's Easter Sunday service.

The 55-year-old pastor thanked church members for taking care of him and his family and praised the community for being 'a real church.'

It was first time the community had heard from Remington since the March 6 shooting. His video message was received with wild applause.

Suspect Kyle Odom (left) allegedly shot 55-year-old pastor Tim Remington (right). Odom was arrested by Secret Service agents while allegedly throwing items onto the lawn of the White House

Coeur d'Alene police investigate the scene of the March 6 shooting in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

He said in the video: 'I want to let you know that you don't need to worry.

'God has me in the palm of his hands like you. I thought about you the whole time.

'I thought about the people that love me and what you guys are doing, how you guys are taking care of the church, taking care of the people.

'Gifts coming in and flowers and food, my family taken care of. You guys are a real church.

'Eight holes in me by a .45, hollow-point, which means it just opens up, flares out, blows big holes.

'But you know, eight is an interesting number.

'Because eight is scriptures new beginnings. So I'm going to claim new beginnings.'

The pastor was released from the hospital Friday and has been recuperating at home.

He 'suffered many injuries, including a ripped colon and leg and shoulder wounds,' KREM-TV reported.

Remington is married and has four children.

Suspect Kyle Odom was arrested by Secret Service agents while allegedly throwing items onto the lawn of the White House.

The three-minute video message was played at The Altar Church's Easter Sunday service. The church is seen here

Odom is currently being held in jail in Washington, D.C., pending an extradition hearing.

John Padula, an outreach pastor at the church, had told KHQ that surveillance footage captured the shooter attending the morning services before waiting for Remington in his silver car.

Padula said the shooter then went up to Remington as he opened his car door and 'just started shooting him in the back.'

'It didn't look like the first time he had shot,' Padua told The Spokesman-Review.

'He stood pretty professional as he was shooting.'

Coeur d'Alene Police Detective Jared Reneau has said Odom had attended Remington's church a few times and apparently was the author of a manifesto that contended the pastor was a member of a Martian species that had taken over the Earth.

Odom's family had issued a statement, saying that they were thankful for the safe apprehension of their son.

'As Kyle was not living with us, we are learning of his plans as they are being released by police,' Odom's family said. 'We are truly thankful to God he is safe and no one else has been injured.'

Pastor Tim Remington leads the prayer during the rally for Republican presidential hopeful Ted Cruz at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds on March 5. He was shot eight times March 6 as he was leaving the Altar Church after Sunday services

Authorities have said there's no indication Remington's appearance with Cruz had anything to do with the shooting. Remington is seen with the Texas senator

After the March 6 afternoon shooting, Odom drove west toward Spokane, Washington. He boarded a flight at the Boise Airport sometime March 7, said Lee White, police chief for Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where the shooting occurred.

The Transportation Security Administration said a bulletin notifying the agency of law enforcement's interest in Odom was not received until the evening of March 7.

The TSA says it screens passengers against the government's Terrorist Watchlist, but it does not search for requests for criminals and warrants when routinely screening passengers.

It's unclear how Odom was able to board a plane with a warrant out for his arrest, White had said.

Police said that Odom is a decorated former Marine.

Odom has no criminal record, but does have a history of mental illness, White said.

He served in the Marines from 2006-2010, winning an Iraq Campaign Medal and other awards, and rose to the rank of corporal.

Odom later graduated from the University of Idaho with a degree in biochemistry.

Odom is suspected of shooting Remington a day after the pastor led the prayer at a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz.

Authorities have said there's no indication Remington's appearance with Cruz had anything to do with the shooting.

'We've been waiting for somebody who represented God for a long time,' Remington said at the rally.

A spokeswoman for Cruz's campaign released a statement following news of the shooting.

'Our prayers are with Pastor Tim, his family, and the doctors who are supervising his care,' it read.

'We pray for his full recovery and are thankful for the efforts of law enforcement to ensure the attacker is swiftly brought to justice.'

The 55-year-old pastor thanked church members for taking care of him and his family and praised the community for being 'a real church'

Six-year-old Rafe Adams, front, prays with his mother Chelsey and sister Keira, 8, during a prayer vigil held for Coeur d'Alene pastor Tim Remington at Candlelight Christian Fellowship in Coeur d'Alene on March 7

Odom apparently wrote a manifesto contending that Martians controlled the Earth, police have said. Odom's Facebook profile and manifesto featured a sketch (pictured)

Odom graduated from the University of Idaho with a degree in biochemistry. The manifesto contended that his life started to deteriorate during his final semester and was now ruined.

'Ruined by an intelligent species of amphibian-humanoid from Mars,' the manifesto said.

Odom contended that the Martians were here before humans, lived underground and operated a breeding program for humans, the manifesto said.

It said: 'They take control of 'wild' human beings and use them as sex slaves.

'Don't believe me? Ask President Obama to take a lie detector test on this one.'

Odom also wrote in the manifesto: 'They have a massive breeding stock of humans, which they breed and control from birth.

'They use these 'humans' to live vicarious lives among us.

'They appear to be completely normal because they're good at imitating human behavior.'

Odom contended the Martians were unable to control his mind but had been following him. He said he had attempted suicide twice, but they stopped him.

'As you can see, I'm pretty smart,' the manifesto said. 'I'm also 100% sane, 0% crazy.'

The manifesto included the names of members of Congress, members of the Israeli government, Remington and John Padula, outreach pastor for The Altar Church, where Remington is the senior pastor.

At the bottom of a page which featured a chart indicating what he said were 'Noteworthy Martians,' Odom wrote: 'This is by no means an all-inclusive list. Martians are ubiquitous.

'They exist at every level of society in every nation.

'Some have blue collar jobs, while other occupy positions of power.

'They control our government, our military, and Corporate America as well.

'They keep track of every 'wild' human on the planet and manage us like animals in a zoo.

'Our 'freedom' is a carefully crafted illusion.'

Remington has been with The Altar Church for nearly two decades, specializing in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction, Padula has said.
Australia's first minister for family violence has revealed her family's harrowing domestic violence past, spurred by an abusive father in her birth country of Tanzania in East Africa.

The Minister for Women and Prevention of Family Violence, Fiona Richardson, has opened up about her own hidden dark past to ABC's Australian Story.

Ms Richardson will reveal the abuse that her mother and two brothers suffered at the hands of her father while growing up in Dar Es Salaam as they explore their violent family history that has deeply scarred them.

'I have no memories before the age of eight that do not involve violence,' Ms Richardson told Australian Story.

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Australia's first minister for family violence Fiona Richardson MP (pictured) has revealed her family's harrowing domestic violence past, spurred by an abusive father in her birth country of Tanzania in East Africa

Ms Richardson (centre) and her two brothers when they were little, who were abused by their now deceased father, Ernest 'Richie' Richardson

Fiona Richardson's brothers now, Hamish (left) and Alastair Richardson (right), who copped a lot of the abuse

The Victorian minister says her late father Ernest 'Richie' Richardson was charming and charismatic, but alcohol fuelled his violent persona.

'The problem was, of course, he wasn't like that all the time and when he was drunk he was a very different man,' she said.

But Ms Richardson's traumatic grief mostly stems from watching the horrific abuse that her mother and two brothers copped.

Richie treated his daughter very differently from the rest of the family, Veronica Power, Ms Richardson's mother said.

'Fiona, being the little one and being a girl, Richie adored her,' Ms Power said.

'He gave in to her every will, he absolutely adored her and she adored him too.'

Ms Richardson tears up in her interview with Australian Story: 'Tears is a sign of weakness in politics you know that don't you ... and, by the way too, it's not a side of me that people have seen'

The Victorian minister says her late father 'Richie' was charming and charismatic, but alcohol fuelled his violent persona

Ms Richardson's brothers, Hamish (then eight years old) and Alastair (six) first experienced their father's abusive touch when Ms Power left her three children in his care while she left Dar es Salaam for surgery in London.

The boys rang Ms Power to tell her how they were all doing.

'I said to Alastair "what's Fiona doing?",' Ms Power remembers.

'And Alastair said "she's sitting on Sybil's lap". Sybil was my husband Richie's secretary.'

Hamish recalls: 'As soon as that name came out  bang! And Alastair, he hit the floor like a bag of spuds. He was then removed  to upstairs kicking and screaming.'

'I remember the first punch, which was to the face,' Alistair said.

Ms Richardson's (left) mother Veronica Power (middle) and brother Hamish (right), return to the family home in Tanzania where domestic violence was a part of life

Ms Richardson was 'adored' by her father, Richie, but the others weren't as lucky

Hamish said there was nothing he could do to help his brother.

'What can I do?'

Hamish said the hatred he felt for his father will never subside.

While Alistair and Hamish were uncertain about Ms Richardson sharing the family's dark past, Ms Power said that people need to know they survived generations of abuse.

'Richie beat me, he raped me, he sodomised me, he did everything to humiliate me and it was something that I didn't  it was horrible, it was horrible.'

'The domestic violence was so bad that anything that comes on top of that will be a nothing,' she said.

Veronica Power (pictured) looks through archives in search of understanding more about her own abusive mother

Ms Power thinks the generational family abuse stemmed from the abuse she suffered at the hands of her mother as a young girl in Eastern Africa, which led her to marry two alcoholics, including Richie.

Ms Richardson agrees.

'The way that my grandmother treated my mother did condition my mother to an acceptance that family violence or such terrible behaviour was somehow normal and all that she deserved in life,' Ms Richardson said.

Ms Power now wants to learn more about her mother's past and to understand where she has come from.

Hamish was hesitant to join his mother to South Africa to sift through family archives, but in the end did not want to miss out on the opportunity to learn more about his childhood.

'I haven't been back to Tanzania for forty six years there's a bloody good reason for that okay,' he said.

Victoria Power wanted to explore her family history by sifting through graveyards and archives

While opening up has been nothing short of traumatic for the entire family, Ms Richardson reveals that it has also been worthwhile in the long run.

'You never forget the fear, the sense of panic and the incredible sense of longing that he will one day stop and show you the love that other kids seem to enjoy,' Alistair said.

'You learn that it's not normal and it's not right. No child, no mother, no person should ever feel the fear or suffer pain inflicted by someone they love and trust. No-one.

'It needs to stop. It's something that happened to me but it won't define me.'

Hamish said he doesn't want the substantial impact that domestic violence has on children to be lost in the discussion.

'Little kids that don't have a voice, aren't physically strong enough to stand up for themselves and see their parents arguing  that's horrendous,' Hamish said.

'Now we're talking about stuff that actually had an impact on us, so that's a positive. The downside of it all is that we're sitting airing our linen in public for the whole world to see and for the whole world to look at and yeah that's not a comfortable place to be at any stage.'

Pictured: Ms Richardson (left), Ms Power (centre), Hamish (right): The family decided to face the trauma of the past together, returning to their old home in Tanzania

Ms Richardson will tell her full story on the eve of Victoria's handing down of its Royal Commission into Family Violence report findings, responsible for implementing the recommendations herself.

When Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews asked Ms Richardson to be Australia's first Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, he had no idea of her troubled family history.

'I had no knowledge, no sense that she had been a survivor of the very thing that I was asking her to be the minister for,' he said.

The Gender Equality Strategy is a key to the Victorian government's fight against violence.

'These are the people that I most love in this world and talking about those experiences at times can be tough but it has given me this unique insight into victims of family violence,' Ms Richardson said.

Australian Story: The Ministers Secret  Airs Monday, March 28 at 8pm on ABC & iview
Peter Brock's children want some of his trophies to be sent to them for safe keeping after one was misplaced, but the racing legend's brother said they are just trying to profit from his name.

Robert Brock, son of Australian racing champion Peter Brock, said his family would like the trophies being kept at Bathurst's National Motor Racing Museum returned to them if they are not on display.

He said the family, including Brock's daughter Alexandra and stepson James, wanted to 'safeguard' the trophies after one of the nine cups their father won during his reign at the Bathurst 1000 had been lost, the Daily Telegraph reported.

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Robert Brock, son of Australian racing champion Peter Brock(pictured), said his family would like the trophies being kept at Bathurst's National Motor Racing Museum returned to them if they are not on display

Mr Brock said keeping track of the trophies, some of which were kept by the Peter Brock Foundation, had become too 'difficult'.

But the racing legend's brother Phil, who has not spoken to Brock's children since they were involved in a public dispute over his will, said Brock would not want the trophies taken from the museum, who had nothing to do with the icon's lost award.

'Peter was the people's champion,' Mr Brock told the Daily Telegraph.

'Having his trophies on display, to him, would be an obvious thing to do.

But the racing legend's brother Phil, who has not spoken to Brock's children since they were involved in a public dispute over his will, said Brock would not want the trophies taken from the museum

He criticised Brock's children for using their father's name for financial gain, while they don't appear to respect his legacy

He criticised Brock's children for using their father's name for financial gain, while they don't appear to respect his legacy.

'I never hear one word or read one thing that comes out of [Brock's children] that says how proud they are of their dad. They are only too happy to have a lot of merchandise out there for sale, of which they reap the profits.'

Daily Mail Australia contacted the National Motor Racing Museum to verify the claims.

Staff were unable to confirm how many of Brock's trophies were held by the museum or if they were on public display

Staff were unable to confirm how many of Brock's trophies were held by the museum or if they were on public display.

Brock, known by many as the 'King of the Mountain' was tragically killed during a West Australian rally in 2006 after he lost control of his vehicle on a tight bend and collided with a tree.

The Bathurst 1000 winner's trophy was re-named the Peter Brock Trophy after his death in honour of his stellar achievements.
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It was home to more than 6,000 migrants hoping to smuggle their way into Britain.

But huge swathes of the notorious Jungle camp in Calais are no more after it was bulldozed by the French authorities.

The squalid shantytown on land close to the ferry terminal had grown into a tented city with more than a dozen shops, restaurants, a hotel and even a nightclub.

It used to be home to 6,000 migrants but huge swathes of the notorious Jungle camp in Calais are no more after it was bulldozed by the French authorities

Pictures of the site before showed the hundreds of makeshift tents in blue and white, in small clusters all over the infamous migrant camp

However, new pictures show nearly the entire south side of the site has been razed after a French court last month permitted its clearance

However, these pictures show nearly the entire south side of the site has been razed after a French court last month gave its blessing to the clearance.

All that remains are the camps church, mosque and school along with 125 shipping containers surrounded by security fences that have been converted into housing for up to 1,500 migrants.

Riot police with tear gas were brought in as demolition teams arrived at the end of last month to begin the levelling.

Flames and thick black smoke the camp as some migrants set fire to their tents in protest.

Officers lobbed tear gas canisters at those attempting to block the demolition of the southern part of the site that housed around 4,000 in its final weeks.

A female British activist was among those arrested during several days of violent clashes.

Muslim migrants pray during Friday prayer next to makeshift shelters as the dismantlement of the camp started earlier this month

Afghan aslyum seekers in the makeshift home that they had made in the camp, which had all kinds of amenities, including a nightclub that

Human rights groups and charities had attempted to block the clearance in a last minute legal action, but on 25 February a court in Lille rejected their appeal and gave permission.

At the peak of the summer 6,000 people were living in the camp that became increasingly well-developed with amenities including a library, as well as a popular destination for luvvies wanting to make political statements about the migrant crisis.

A nightclub became the newest addition in October, giving the inhabitants the chance to take part in rap battles, dance offs and karaoke competitions.

Disco lights and speakers were installed in a large dome-shaped tent on the site where crowds of up to 500 have gathered to party.

Most of those at the camp were living in squalor. Doctors working there describing conditions as worse than a war zone people sleeping in tents surrounded by raw sewage, stagnant water and mud.

As the flattening took place the most vulnerable people living there were offered spaces in the new shipping containers, but many shunned them describing them as like a prison and complaining that all those who apply have to supply their palm prints.

Human rights groups and charities had attempted to block the clearance in a last minute legal action, but on 25 February a court in Lille rejected their appeal and gave permission

At the peak of the summer 6,000 people were living in the camp that became increasingly well-developed with amenities including a library, as well as a popular destination for luvvies wanting to make political statements about the migrant crisis

A nightclub became the newest addition in October, giving the inhabitants the chance to take part in rap battles, dance offs and karaoke competitions

Around 2,500 people are now staying in a site near Dunkirk, while some are camped out in cliff caves and an abandoned church along the D-Day beaches of Normandy.

Nine Iranians who sewed their mouths shut in protest at the demolition at the weekend ended their hunger strike.

The men began their action on 2 March, days after the clearance began.

Their lawyer, Orsane Broissin, read a statement before the frail-looking men left to have their stitches removed and receive treatment from aid workers.
Chilling photographs of a fake grave for Donald Trump positioned in New York's Central Park swept across social media Easter Sunday.

The tombstone appeared to be engraved with the Republican front-runner's name and underneath an epitaph: 'Made America Hate Again', a wry take on his campaign slogan: 'Make America Great Again'.

It was also engraved with a decorative cross and the billionaire businessman's birth-date - 1946, although stopped short of adding his death year.

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The tombstone - which was supposedly erected in Central Park - appeared to be engraved with the Republican front-runner's name and underneath an epitaph: 'Made America Hate Again'

But Mail Online reporter went down to the site Sunday afternoon and could not see any sign of it and a park official told Mail Online they saw the photo of the grave online 'ages ago' and after checking it out they confirmed that it had been photoshopped

The media mogul's (pictured) campaign has been slammed as 'divisive' and 'fueled with hate' and has been blamed for sparking bloody violence at various rallies around the country

Several media outlets today reported that the grave was spotted by multiple passers by, who then posted a photo of it online.

But it is unclear if the grave was even there in the first place. A Mail Online reporter went down to the site Sunday afternoon and could not see any sign of it.

While a park official told Mail Online they saw the photo of the grave online 'ages ago' and after checking it out they confirmed that it had been photoshopped.

They added that they had never seen it in the park and the park ranger who was stationed there hadn't seen it either.

Whether it is fake or not, the message behind it is an uneasy one - but not all too surprising.

The media mogul's campaign has been slammed as 'divisive' and 'fueled with hate' and has been blamed for sparking bloody violence at various rallies around the country. Pictured, Chicago rally violence

The media mogul's campaign has been slammed as 'divisive' and 'fueled with hate' and has been blamed for sparking bloody violence at various rallies around the country, most notably in Chicago several weeks ago.

Although Trump has brushed off the violence as 'organised by thugs' and has pushed the blame onto his rivals as well as Barack Obama, whose leadership he claims has 'divided America'.

Meanwhile in Mexico, America's southern neighbors have taken their disdain for The Donald one step further.

Their Easter celebrations late Saturday included burning effigies of Trump, whose anti-immigrant views have sparked outrage south of the American border.

In Mexico City's poor La Merced neighborhood, hundreds of cheering residents yelled 'death' and various insults as they watched the explosion of the grinning papier-mache mock-up of the real estate tycoon, replete with blue blazer, red tie and his trademark tuft of blond hair.

Media reported that Trump effigies burned across Mexico, from Puebla to Mexico's industrial hub Monterrey.

Meanwhile in Mexico, America's southern neighbors have taken their disdain for The Donald one step further

Media reported that Trump effigies burned across Mexico, from Puebla to Mexico's industrial hub Monterrey

In Mexico City's poor La Merced neighborhood, hundreds of cheering residents yelled 'death' and various insults as they watched the explosion of the grinning papier-mache mock-up of the real estate tycoon

The burning is part of a widespread Mexican Holy Week tradition where neighborhoods burn effigies to represent Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus Christ according to the Bible. The effigies are often modeled on unpopular political figures.

'Since he started his campaign and began talking about immigrants, Mexico, and Mexicans, I said 'I've got to get this guy,'' said Felipe Linares, the artisan who crafted Trump and whose family has been making Judases for more than 50 years.

Trump, the front-runner to win the Republican nomination for the Nov. 8 election, has drawn fire in Mexico with his campaign vow to build a wall along the southern U.S. border to keep out illegal immigrants and drugs, and to make Mexico pay for it.

Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto has said his country will not pay for the wall and likened Trump's 'strident tone' to the ascent of dictators like Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini.

Trump, who has also aroused concern among many in his own party with his proposals, has accused Mexico of sending rapists and drug runners across the border and vowed to increase fees on some Mexican visas and all border crossing cards to help make Mexico pay for the wall.

Judas effigies are burnt in villages and towns in several Latin American countries such as Venezuela and in parts of Greece. Anthropologists say the practice serves a symbolic function to overcome divisions and unite communities around a common enemy.

Linares has also done mock-ups of corrupt former union leader Elba Esther Gordillo and President Enrique Pena Nieto, whose popularity has been hit by conflict-of-interest scandals and the disappearance of 43 students at the hands of corrupt police.

Donald Trump Jr went Easter egg-hunting with his family on Sunday at his father's Mar-a-Lago estate, but the GOP frontrunner was nowhere to be seen




British soldiers would become targets for IS and hostile fighters if they end up stationed in Libyas capital, senior MP Crispin Blunt has warned

British soldiers would become targets for IS and hostile fighters if they end up stationed in Libyas capital, a senior MP has warned.

Crispin Blunt, the former justice minister, claimed talks have been held over stationing 1,000 British troops in a Baghdad-style Green Zone as part of the military assistance offered to Libyas fledgling unity government.

Libya has descended into chaos since the toppling of Colonel Gaddafi in 2011, with IS now commanding large swathes of the country.

Ministers have insisted British forces will not play a frontline role there, but will simply train Libyan soldiers. They have also pointed out that so far no decisions have been made about where they could be stationed.

However Mr Blunt, who is an ex-Army officer and chairman of the foreign affairs select committee, said any plan to base UK troops in Tripoli would be seen as a sign of Western intervention.

This particular plan of sending Western troops anywhere near Tripoli would be a singularly bad idea, he told the Sunday Telegraph, adding: Even if you say it is just a training mission rather than a combat one, any foreign troop presence in Tripoli will be seen as a Western intervention.

Everybody and their mother will be trying to have a pop at them.

Soldiers could be attacked or targeted by IS suicide bombers in Tripoli, he said, insisting: It would be infinitely better to have such a training mission in Tunisia.

Having 1,000 troops in Libya would be a disaster, it will be Lebanon in 1983 all over again, said Mr Blunt, referring to the suicide attacks which killed nearly 300 Western troops.

He went on to say he hoped the Government would ditch the plans. An MoD spokesman said: No decisions have been made about future deployment of any British military forces.
A newsagent murdered after posting an Easter greeting online was allegedly killed by a fellow Muslim who travelled from 200 miles away.

Asad Shah, 40, was stabbed to death in his shop in what is feared to have been a sectarian attack against the peace-loving branch of Islam he followed.

Hours before his murder, he had written on Facebook: 'Good Friday and very Happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation.'

The bearded killer is understood to have travelled from his home in Bradford to Mr Shah's store in Glasgow.

Shopkeeper Asad Shah was killed in a brutal attack outside his shop in Glasgow last night

A GoFundMe page was created following the incident by some of Mr Shah's customers to raise funds for his family.

Posts on the page describe Mr Shah as a 'popular, well-respected and much-loved' member of the community.

Thousands of people have donated, and in two days more than 51,000 has been raised.

The newsagent was stabbed up to 30 times with a kitchen knife and his head was stamped on in the brutal attack on Thursday.

Police suspect the incident was 'religiously prejudiced'.

It is claimed Mr Shah was set upon because he belonged to the Ahmadi community, which promotes peace and tolerance but has been persecuted by members of orthodox Islamic sects in Pakistan.

His murder is believed to be the first major anti-Ahmadi incident in the UK, and has sparked fears Islamic sectarianism has spread to Britain.

Police have arrested a 32-year-old Muslim man belonging to the rival Sunni sect over the murder.

Witnesses say the victim was stabbed and then stamped on before his attackers ran off down the road

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joined an estimated crowd of 400 to 500 people for the vigil to show solidarity and remember Mr Shah

Detectives are investigating the theory that the attacker became enraged over faith-related messages that the newsagent posted on his Facebook page.

Mr Shah's family say they now live in fear of retribution in the wake of the attack.

Speaking on the condition that his name was not published, one of the shopkeeper's three brothers said: 'We have to be careful now about our own security. We are scared for our lives.

THE SECT THAT PREACHES LOVE Asad Shah belonged to the Ahmadi Muslim community, which preaches love and tolerance. The sect, which has a huge missionary network spreading its values of non-violence, identifies itself as a Muslim movement and follows the teachings of the Koran. But it is regarded by orthodox Muslims as heretical because followers do not believe Mohammed was the final prophet sent to guide mankind. As a result, Ahmadi Muslims have been persecuted  particularly in ultra-conservative Pakistan. It moved its headquarters to Britain in the 1980s and is currently based in Morden, south London. The reformist movement's founder was Islamic teacher Mirza Ghulam Ahmad who was born in India in 1835. Advertisement

'The police have told us to be careful about what we say.' Mr Shah's widow fought back tears as she described her husband as a 'kind man who was always smiling'.

Another of the victim's brothers, who now lives in the US, said the Pakistani family moved to Glasgow in the late 1990s and opened the shop in the Shawlands area.

'The people of Glasgow and Shawlands were so welcoming and we became part of the community,' he said.'[Asad] knew all his customers by name and sometimes they would just come in for a chat.

'He was a calm and patient man and did not mind where people were from or what religion they were.

'He liked everyone. He would give people cards for Christmas and for Easter as he knew it was important to them.'

Last night, another Ahmadi Muslim in Glasgow said: 'The last I've heard of people experiencing sectarianism like we do was in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

'Orthodox Muslims consider us to be blasphemers.'

Family friend Mohammad Faisal said a bearded Muslim man wearing a long religious garment spoke angrily to Mr Shah in his native language before stabbing him up to 30 times in the head.

Mr Faisal added: 'It was just a clear-cut revenge attack. For posting messages about peace, messages about greeting fellow Christians and Jews  other people from different beliefs.'
A law firm hounding British troops paid an agent to hand out questionnaires to Iraqi civilians as a basis for making claims against British troops, it emerged yesterday.

They were turned into unsigned witness statements in the UK by lawyer Phil Shiners firm, which then lodged claims in court.

Details of the practice were withheld from an investigation into the death of an Iraqi civilian shot dead by British soldier Richard Catterall.

But after a Ministry of Defence complaint the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) will investigate the questionnaires as part of a wider probe into fears Public Interest Lawyers acted against the solicitors code of conduct.

A law firm hounding British troops paid an agent to hand out questionnaires to Iraqi civilians as a basis for making claims against British troops, it emerged yesterday. Above, British soldiers in Basra in November 2005

The firm, which has received millions of pounds in taxpayer-funded legal aid, has been under investigation by the SRA for a year. The Government has submitted several documents that came to light during the 200,000 Iraqi Fatality Investigations (IFI) inquiry, including evidence an agent named Abu Jamal, later employed by the firm, touted for business, which is against the rules for solicitors.

In a witness statement, Fatima Dahesh, the grieving widow of Muhammad Salim, shot dead by former Sergeant Catterall in Basra in 2003, said Mr Jamal knocked on her door when she was a in a severe grieving state weeks after the incident.

He passed the case to PIL, which pursued it for more than a decade.

Her statement, revealed in the Daily Mail, is the strongest proof so far that families were persuaded to make claims against UK troops. In the next few weeks the SRA may decide that PIL must face a tribunal, which could see lawyers being struck off or the firm fined.

Details of the practice were withheld from an investigation into the death of an Iraqi civilian shot dead by British soldier Richard Catterall (pictured)

The watchdog is also investigating whether PIL used two further unnamed agents to hand out questionnaires, which omitted key questions such as were other parties also firing in this incident?.

It is understood the MoD believes the questions were leading and yield partial information and are insufficient to launch an investigation.

A government source said: It is exactly this kind of behaviour that led us to press the SRA to investigate PIL in the first place.

But it cant stop there which is why we are working up plans to put a stop to rogue law firms harassing our soldiers with spurious claims.

More than 1,500 allegations of murder and ill treatment have been lodged by law firms.

Colonel Richard Kemp, who commanded soldiers in Afghanistan, said he hoped the evidence against PIL would see Phil Shiner struck off so he can no longer profit from the exploitation of British soldiers.

Tory MP Johnny Mercer, a former soldier leading an inquiry into law firms hounding British soldiers, said: I fail to genuinely understand how we could make the lives of our individual soldiers who have served with courage and valour on operations any more difficult.

Last week the IFI inquiry found Mr Catterall had acted in self-defence as any reasonable, trained soldier would when he shot Mr Salim.

Speaking for the first time since he was cleared, the 46-year-old said last night: Im just glad it is all over.

Sir George Newman, the IFI inquirys chairman, found the case against Mr Catterall had relied on a document doctored to make it look like the British military was to blame.
Justin and Stephanie Shults are the only identified American victims whose identities have been revealed so far

On Friday, the wife of an Air Force lieutenant colonel was also confirmed as one of American victims

Another American has been identified as killed in the attacks in Brussels, bringing the total number of US citizens confirmed as victims to four.

An official confirmed the death Sunday night but was unable to reveal their identity since they 'were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly'.

They added that they did not disclose the victim's identity 'out of respect for the families in this difficult time'.

Officials have said previously that at least a dozen Americans were injured in the attacks last Tuesday.

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The bodies of missing Americans Stephanie and Justin Shults were identified yesterday, five days after the blasts at Brussels airport

Pictured above the aftermath of the bombing at the Brussels Airport

On Friday, the wife of an Air Force lieutenant colonel was also confirmed as one of Americans killed in the Belgium terror attacks Tuesday, officials told Fox News.

The woman's name was not revealed.

Earlier Sunday, the White House said that President Barack Obama had telephoned the parents of an American couple identified as among the dead in the attacks.

The White House said Obama offered his condolences and praised Justin and Stephanie Shults as epitomizing all that was good about America.

Justin Shults was originally from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and his wife, Stephanie, was a native of Lexington, Kentucky.

They graduated together from Vanderbilt University's Owen Graduate School of Management.

A family member says they were dropping Stephanie's mother off at the Brussels airport and were watching her walk through security when the bombs went off.

The bodies of the Shults' were identified today, five days after the blasts at Brussels airport.

Mr Shults' brother, Levi Sutton, paid tribute to his sibling, who is originally from Tennessee on Twitter saying: 'We found out today that cowards took my brother's life just weeks after his 30th birthday.

The bloody scene at Brussels Airport on Tuesday after two explosions were heard

President Barack Obama has urged Americans not to 'stigmatize' Muslims in the wake of the Brussels terrorist attacks that left 34 dead - including four U.S. citizens.

Victims: Justin Shults was originally from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and his wife, Stephanie, was a native of Lexington, Kentucky. Pictured together above

'I was blessed to have Justin as a big brother. He was smart and kind and generous. I never met a single person that didn't like him.

'He worked hard his whole life and achieved goals that most could only dream about.

'He traveled the world leaving each destination better than when he arrived.

'Knowing that I'll never be able to see him again hurts but it's worse that my future children will never get to know their uncle Justin as he would've been a great role model. Please pray for my mom.'

The grim news was revealed by company executives at Clarcor, the engineering firm the 30-year-old worked for.

Dutch siblings Sascha and Alexander Pinczowski, pictured left and right, were living in New York and were catching a flight back to the U.S. on Tuesday when the first explosions happened

Dutch siblings who were living in New York have also been confirmed among the dead in the Brussels terror attacks.

The family of Sascha and Alexander Pinczowski have learned that the two were killed in the Tuesday bombing at Brussels Airport.

The siblings were on the phone to their mother in Holland when the first explosions were heard and the line went dead.

Alexander Pinczowski was living in New York with his girlfriend, and his sister Sascha was splitting her time between America and Europe after graduating from Marymount Manhattan College with a degree in business last May.
Teachers should cut back on marking to ease their workload, controversial Government-backed guidance claims.

They should make youngsters think for themselves and take more 'responsibility' for rigorously checking their own work, it advises.

Staff should also give oral feedback and even get classmates to assess each other's exercise books. Heads are told to think about their teachers' 'work-life balance' when considering the hours staff spend on marking.

But furious critics yesterday denounced the 'dangerous' guidance as 'short-cut teaching' that prevents schools from seeing where children are 'going right or wrong'.

Teachers should cut back on marking to ease their workload and instead make youngsters think for themselves and take more 'responsibility' for rigorously checking their own work, advice suggests (file photo)

Chris McGovern, a former headteacher and chairman of the Campaign for Real Education, said: 'The lazy teacher will get pupils to mark their own work.'

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has accepted the recommendations from the independent Marking Policy Review Group  which was commissioned by the Department for Education last October to investigate ways to reduce 'unnecessary workload'.

The group aims to 'help schools to review their practice with the aim of shrinking the importance marking has gained over other forms of feedback'.

Its report says it has become 'common practice for teachers to provide extensive written comments on every piece of work'.

But giving this written feedback has become 'disproportionately valued by schools' and 'unnecessarily burdensome for teachers', it adds.

RED PEN IS TOO 'AGGRESSIVE' Teachers have complained about a 'ridiculous' marking system which forces them to write negative comments in pink because it is 'less aggressive' than red. Some heads believe pink will make children feel less like failures. Many are also making staff use up to six different coloured pens as part of a 'triple' or 'deep' marking strategy. In one example, a school has asked pupils to respond to teachers' comments in purple or blue. Teachers giving encouragement must use a 'positive' green pen. The system is thought to be inspired by Marking Matters, a guide from schools regulator Ofsted issued in 2011 but withdrawn last year. Michael Parsons, who teaches at Roath Park Primary School in Cardiff, said: 'To be honest it's lost on me ... and it's lost on the children.' Advertisement

Effective marking is an 'essential part' of the education process but this can 'often be achieved without extensive written dialogue or comments'. The report stresses that marking should be 'proportionate' and 'help to motivate pupils to progress'.

It says: 'This does not mean always writing in-depth comments or being universally positive  sometimes short, challenging comments or oral feedback are more effective.

'If the teacher is doing more work than their pupils, this can become a disincentive for pupils to accept challenges and take responsibility for improving their work.'

The report suggests: 'Feedback can take the form of spoken or written marking, peer marking and self-assessment. If the hours spent do not have the commensurate impact on pupil progress, stop it.'

But Professor Alan Smithers, director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research at Buckingham University, said the 'unfortunate advice' will 'damage pupil progress if it's seized upon by teachers and their unions'.

Margaret Morrissey, of campaign group Parents Outloud, said: 'It disgusts me because it's saying a child has to do everything they're told and do all this work and then it can be passed to the kid sitting next to them to mark.

'I don't think that children will any longer be as keen to do their work because it's totally devalued by the fact that it can be marked in any way, by anybody, but by a professional.'

Staff should also give oral feedback and even get classmates to assess each other's exercise books. Heads are told to think about their teachers' 'work-life balance' when considering the hours staff spend on marking

Teachers at the NASUWT annual conference in Birmingham have backed a motion calling for an 'escalation of industrial action' over the 'abuse of marking procedures by schools'.

Chris Keates, general secretary of the union, warned teachers are being 'subjected to policies which dictate when to mark, how to mark and even the colours of the pens to be used'.

Mrs Morgan told delegates at the weekend that marking, planning and data collection were 'vital' to pupil outcomes.
A father who allegedly caught an intruder rifling through his baby daughter's bedroom has been charged with murder after he broke the would-be burglar's neck as he tried to make a citizen's arrest.

Ben Batterham, 33, allegedly found Richard James Slater, 34, looking through his young daughter's room after the intruder broke into his home in Hamilton, a central suburb of Newcastle, on the New South Wales mid-coast, at around 3.30am on Saturday.

A fight broke out and Mr Batterham, who was assisted by an unnamed friend, is understood to have put the would-be burglar in a choke hold to detain him until police arrived, Seven News reported.

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Richard James Slater, known as Ricky, died in hospital after he was found by police with a suspected broken neck following an alleged break and enter

Ben Batterham, 33, allegedly found Richard James Slater, 34, looking through his young daughter's room after the intruder broke into his home in Hamilton on Saturday at around 3.30am

Police found Mr Slater, who was reportedly charged with a string of break and enter offences in 2012, unconscious in Mr Batterham's home with a suspected broken neck.

The 34-year-old, who is known to his family as Ricky, was rushed to John Hunter Hospital where he remained in critical condition until his family decided to turn off his life support at 11.30am on Sunday, according to NSW Police.

Mr Batterham was reportedly treated for injuries to his face at a nearby hospital and charged with recklessly inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The charges were upgraded to murder when Mr Slater's life support system was turned off, with the 33-year-old father handing himself into police on Sunday afternoon.

The 34-year-old was rushed to John Hunter Hospital where he remained in critical condition until his family decided to turn off his life support at 11.30am on Sunday

Police found Mr Slater, who was reportedly charged with a string of break and enter offences in 2012, unconscious in Mr Batterham's home with a suspected broken neck

Mr Batterham handed himself into police on Sunday following Mr Slater's death

Police allege the 33-year-old man and a 32-year-old man tackled the alleged home invader and placed him in a headlock before officers arrived

The father was denied bail by police on Monday and is expected to face a Magistrate on April 29.

The 32-year-old man who assisted Mr Batterham during the citizen's arrest has spoken to police, but was not charged.

Mr Slater's devastated family have demanded justice, claiming the 34-year-old father-of-three was 'murdered in cold blood'.

'I want my baby's killer found and brought to justice,' his mother Beryl Dickson told Seven News.

'He was my eldest baby and now I got to bury him for a reason I don't know.'

Ms Dickson said her three grandchildren have been robbed of a father, claiming that he had been on the straight and narrow since leaving prison.

Mr Slater's devastated family have demanded justice, claiming the 34-year-old father-of-three was 'murdered in cold blood' (pictured mother Beryl Slater right)

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Mr Slater had been released from jail in December after serving 20 months for aggravated break and enter and fraud offences.

He was reportedly convicted over the ram raid of an adult store in Sandgate where cash and synthetic drugs were taken, but was acquitted on appeal.

'They've lost their father, their beautiful father that they haven't seen for years because he was in jail, which has nothing to do with this case,' Ms Dickson told ABC News.

'Just to think those little kids are going to grow up without a dad now.'

Ms Dickson said she tried to get her son to open his eyes as he lay in hospital but doctors told her Mr Slater's brain had been starved of oxygen.

'I was telling him to get up or open his eyes, and he wouldn't; I just wanted him to open his eyes and talk to me.'
It has gripped millions with its thrilling tale of sex, spying and sabotage. But the final episode of The Night Manager was more notable for its violence.

Heart-throb Tom Hiddleston had a gun put to his head and Australian star Elizabeth Debickis character was tortured in a bath.

And viewers hoping for more pyrotechnics from the 20million series were treated to a dramatic explosion scene in the dying moments as truck-loads of weapons were blown up.

It has gripped millions with its thrilling tale of sex, spying and sabotage. But the final episode of The Night Manager was more notable for its violence

The BBC adaptation of John Le Carres novel has won rave reviews and 6million viewers  and ended in a way which suggested that pleas for a sequel may not go unheeded.

Hiddlestons character Jonathan Pine, who had strangled Major Lance Corkoran to death the week before, demonstrated his aggression once again. He killed one man and drugged a villainous arms dealer in a casino, leaving him to drown in his swimming pool.

Yet the most harrowing scene was that involving Miss Debicki, who played arms dealer Richard Ropers sultry girlfriend Jed Marshall.

Her head was plunged in and out of a bath by a henchman after Roper had found evidence of her spying on him.

The most harrowing scene was that involving Elizabeth Debicki, who played arms dealer Richard Ropers sultry girlfriend Jed Marshall

Viewers first heard the sound of her being almost drowned, but then saw her terrified expressions from below, thanks to a camera in the water. A picture of her bloodied face was then show to Pine

Viewers first heard the sound of her being almost drowned, but then saw her terrified expressions from below, thanks to a camera in the water. A picture of her bloodied face was then show to Pine.

The tense finale also saw heavily pregnant spy boss Angela Burr, played by Olivia Colman, come just seconds from being found by a bodyguard sent to kill her.

The gruesome denouement  and readers who havent yet seen the episode may wish to skip this paragraph  reached a satisfying end, however, as Roper (played by Hugh Laurie) was eventually arrested for trading illegal arms and was driven away by henchmen hired by those he had ripped off, facing inevitable torture.

Several viewers have felt that the series has served as a lengthy audition for Hiddleston to be Daniel Craigs successor as James Bond, and last nights episode will only fuel the speculation.

The tense finale also saw heavily pregnant spy boss Angela Burr, played by Olivia Colman, come just seconds from being found by a bodyguard sent to kill her

Roper (played by Hugh Laurie) was eventually arrested for trading illegal arms and was driven away by henchmen hired by those he had ripped off, facing inevitable torture

Several viewers have felt that the series has served as a lengthy audition for Hiddleston to be Daniel Craigs successor as James Bond, and last nights episode will only fuel the speculation

Aside from dicing with death on several occasions, one scene involving him being questioned on a chair by Roper bore a striking resemblance to a torture scene in Casino Royale featuring Craig. The odds of the Cambridge graduate being cast as the next Bond have shifted during the series, from 25/1 at the start to 9/4 yesterday, and he is now second favourite to take over the role.

Hiddlestons regular nudity has also made him a pin-up among women viewers, and one of the final scenes saw a bubbling romance with Jed end with them both lying naked in bed.
About two-thirds of Brits would prefer to spend their final days at home but roughly half die in hospital

Sending cancer patients home to die may give them a few extra days of life.

About two-thirds of Britons would prefer to spend their final days at home but roughly half die in hospital, often because doctors do not want them to leave.

Japanese scientists who analysed more than 2,000 cases found that the sickest cancer patients  those given less than two weeks to live  survived an average 13 days at home, compared to nine days for those in hospital.

Those given between two and eight weeks to live survived 36 days at home, or 29 days in hospital.

There was no difference in survival rates for those given longer than eight weeks.

Study leader Dr Jun Hamano, of the University of Tsukuba, said the findings, which were published in the journal Cancer, could suggest that the patient and family can choose the place of death in terms of their preference and values.

The team also found that patients kept on fluids and antibiotics in hospital were not likely to outlive those sent home.

The scientists concluded: An oncologist should not hesitate to refer patients for home-based palliative care simply because less medical treatment may be provided.

The NHS was criticised in recent years over the Liverpool Care Pathway, introduced in the 1990s, under which fluids and food were withdrawn from patients deemed to be at the end of their lives.

Hospitals were told to phase out the pathway by July 2014, but the Care Quality Commission found safety failings in 50 English hospitals out of 105 in an August 2015 report.

The End of Life Care Coalition calculated last month that 48,000 people are dying with poor care in England every year.
When The Night Manager ended last night, oof, it was almost a relief. It had started in a quiet but promising way, brimming with glamorous locations, hunky posh chaps peeling off their shirts at every opportunity and plenty of sexy espionage.

Over six thrilling weeks, however, the tension ratcheted up to excruciating levels.

Viewers used to the traditionally genteel charms of Sunday night television found their emotions in uproar. Instead of being soothed by the clink of Downton Abbey teacups or by Russian men in epaulettes being noble, they went to bed consumed with dread and fear.

The Night Manager had started in a quiet but promising way, brimming with glamorous locations, hunky posh chaps peeling off their shirts at every opportunity and plenty of sexy espionage, says Jan Moir

Questions were asked such as: would undercover quasi-spy Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) be unmasked? Could the lovely Jed (Elizabeth Debicki) survive the intrigue?

Would undercover quasi-spy Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston) be unmasked? Could the lovely Jed (Elizabeth Debicki) survive the intrigue?

The final episode found us taken back to Cairo where it all began a lifetime ago. Nefarious deeds at the Nefertiti hotel continued, as arms dealer Richard Dickie Ropers latest deal began to unravel. In the meantime, Ropers girlfriend Jed loathed him and had, like millions of viewers, been in love with the enigmatic Pine since episode three at least.

It wasnt just because of his topless scenes in the shower or his bottomless scenes in the hotel bedroom  but there is no doubt that these peachy moments helped sway public opinion.

In this respect The Night Manager was particularly exhilarating not just because it was Pine  a man!  who was the sex symbol of the piece, but the way in which Hiddleston relished the physical challenge of being the next Poldarkian pin-up.

Sometimes The Night Manager plot had more holes than one of Jeds lacy camisoles, but you either believed or you did not. As Pine himself said, sometimes in life you have to commit'

Everyone is attracted to you, said Jed at one point, and no wonder. Hiddleston effortlessly captured the eternal appeal of the good spy, the moral man in bespoke tailoring doing his best in an amoral world. Elsewhere there were shocking scenes as Jed came under suspicion at last  and was tortured by one of Ropers brutish henchmen.

But  tootle-toot  the cavalry turned up in the unlikely form of Pines secret service minder Amanda Burr (Olivia Colman). The heavily pregnant agent barrelled around the hotel like an anxious Womble; packing a gun in her cardi and too tired to pull a comb through her hair.

Sometimes The Night Manager plot had more holes than one of Jeds lacy camisoles, but you either believed or you did not. As Pine himself said, sometimes in life you have to commit.

Made at a cost of more than 3million an episode, this was the most expensive drama produced in BBC history

Made at a cost of more than 3million an episode, this was the most expensive drama produced in BBC history.

You could see every penny spent, from the incredible locations to Jeds heavenly wardrobe; all cream chiffon and alabaster silks, scraps of lace with which to tempt her sociopathic lover.

The mini-series has become an instant classic. It has been a ratings smash. Not only has it made a huge star of Tom Hiddleston, it has also made British viewers think differently about that nice Hugh Laurie. His journey from Jeeves And Wooster, via Blackadder and House, to play Dickie Roper is quite extraordinary. His portrayal of Ropers particular brand of posh, languid evil lingers in the mind  especially those terrifying stares. Ropers eyes would glower like two eggs being poached in molten lava. Sometimes he was so angry that even his eyebrows bulged with hate.

The heavily pregnant Amanda Burr, played by Olivia Colman barrelled around the hotel like an anxious Womble; packing a gun in her cardi and too tired to pull a comb through her hair

For me, the only way to make sense of The Night Manager was to believe that, in this world where no one was quite what they seemed, Roper knew almost everything all along

All in all, he really was the worst man in the world, the villainous character around whom all the action evolved. He napalmed babies and fondled his lovers milk white neck, even when he knew she was plotting against him.

For me, the only way to make sense of The Night Manager was to believe that, in this world where no one was quite what they seemed, Roper knew almost everything all along.
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Miles from civilization, hidden in a thick brush of bare trees and brown winter grass, lie the warped and decayed buildings of a once thriving colony. Eerie and forgotten, it looks like something from a Stephen King novel - appropriate, given that it sits in the woodlands of his home state of Maine.

But once, rumor has it, this crumbling pile was home to a group of naturists from nearby Durham who'd enjoy the woodlands while soaking in the soft summer sun.

And it might have been forgotten altogether, if it wasn't for Tia Nadeau of the Durham Maine Historical Society and Quest for the Unknown hadn't tracked it down and taken these eerie-but-beautiful photographs, which she shared with both groups Wednesday.

Take a hike: The remains of the colony are miles away from the nearest town, and must be hiked to says local history buff Tia Nadeau

Collapsing: The buildings, much like their former occupants, are now stripped and at the mercy of the elements

'My friends were the ones that told me about it,' Nadeau told The Daily Mail. 'If it wasn't for them, I would have never known about it, or found it on my own.'

Nadeau was told by her friend, who did not wish to be named, that her relative was a member 'back in the day' - which would have been some time between the 1960s, when the club was founded, and the 1970s, when it folded. Few people in town now know about the colony, the Bangor Daily News said.

'Unfortunately there isn't a whole lot of info about it,' she said, 'because it was very hush-hush. My guess is there are still people who belonged to it living in town who don't want to be associated with it.'

Remains: Nadeau took photos of the visit she made with her friends. One discovery was a 1970s bottle of baby oil

Decayed: The colony was used only by its secret members. Nadeau believes some former members may still live in nearby Durham

While many naturist camps are relaxed recreational spaces for families, this one may have been a little bit more of a handful.

'I think they were pretty much driven out of there by neighbors who were upset with the constant partying,' Nadeau said. 'I guess they threw some pretty loud parties!'

If Nadeau is right then those parties must have been very loud indeed - the abandoned camp isn't easy to get to.

She explained that the nearest road to the colony is located around two-and-a-half miles from a main road, and even then there's still distance to travel. 'The dirt road ends, and then you need to hike another half-mile into the woods before you get to it,' she said.

She added: 'As the song from the '80s said, "voices carry!"'

Out for the count: This outhouse looks like it's about to topple over. The colony began in the 1960s, but closed in the 1970s

Noise annoys: Nadeau says that visitors to the colony would hold loud parties that upset other locals. She thinks this is why it closed

And while frolicking in nature might sound like a fun way to spend some time, Nadeau says that the Maine wildlife might have made it a bit less fun than it first seems.

'Honestly, being naked in Maine is not even practical,' she said. 'We have black flies the size of black birds here that will chew you alive! I just can't imagine!'

Nevertheless, the secret group - Nadeau believes that membership quietly grew through word of mouth - found the place pleasant enough to make it last for at least a decade before it sank into obscurity.

Now, all that remains is a collapsing outhouse, a few crumbling buildings and one curious find that never made it into Nadeau's photo gallery.

'I'm still kicking myself for not taking a photo of that half full glass bottle of baby oil from the '70s that we found in the old foundation,' she laughed.
Ministers look likely to spectacularly fail to meet targets on GP recruitment.

An analysis claims they are expected to hire just 2,100 additional family doctors by 2020  not even half the number they promised. And that is a best case scenario.

The Government has repeatedly pledged to install an additional 5,000 GPs within the next four years to offer more evening and weekend appointments.

The Government has repeatedly pledged to install an additional 5,000 GPs within the next four years to offer more evening and weekend appointments. File image

But experts have questioned whether this was a realistic prospect given the fact so many doctors are retiring early or moving overseas.

In addition, surgeries are struggling to hire young GPs who are opting instead to specialise as hospital doctors or surgeons, which are deemed more glamorous careers.

Figures analysed by GP magazine Pulse show that by 2020 there will be an extra 13,000 family doctors joining the NHS, including 11,800 trainees and 1,000 returning from overseas. But they will be offset by the 10,700 who are likely to leave, of whom 7,200 will retire and 3,500 move abroad.

Only last month the Department of Health announced plans to hire more than a hundred extra GPs with golden hellos worth 20,000 to take up posts in unpopular rural regions.

There are just over 40,000 GPs practising in England but this is not enough to meet the needs of our rising and steadily ageing population. And many more will be needed if the Government is going to meet its pledge to provide evening and weekend appointments to all patients by 2020.

Dr Krishna Kasaraneni, of the British Medical Association, said: The political pledge to recruit 5,000 GPs by 2020 is wholly unrealistic.

An analysis claims they are expected to hire just 2,100 additional family doctors by 2020  not even half the number they promised. And that is a best case scenario. File image

We actually need a lot more GPs than this arbitrarily chosen figure to maintain a basic level of service to patients.

With 600 GP trainee posts left unfilled last year and large sections of the workforce telling the BMA they intend to retire, there is little chance the Government will get anywhere near this target.

Nigel Praities, editor of Pulse, said: Our analysis shows that ministers should be very worried about their election pledge to recruit 5,000 GPs by the end of this parliament. They need to step up their efforts to make general practice a more attractive career, and soon. But a Department of Health spokesman said: Pulses figures dont take the whole picture into account. NHS England and Health Education England are working closely with the British Medical Association and the Royal College of GPs on a ten-point plan which sets out exactly how we will achieve this. We have been clear that our target includes registrars (trainee GPs).

Last summer NHS officials admitted they were training paramedics to carry out appointments in surgeries as an alternative to GPs. They will do a four-month course enabling them to see patients out-of-hours, carry out home visits and prescribe some types of drugs.
A Channel Nine sports reporter has revealed she sleeps with a knife in her bedside drawer whenever her husband is away.

Sam Squiers, whose husband Ben often travels for work, made the confession on Today Extra on Monday morning while discussing a break-and-enter which ended with a man being charged with murder.

'My husband works interstate a lot, I sleep with a knife in my bedside drawer,' Squiers told the program.

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Channel Nine reporter Sam Squiers sleeps with a knife in her bedside drawer when her husband is away

The sports journalist (left) said her husband Ben (right) travels interstate for work

The sports reporter hinted that she had a frightening experience with a break-in, adding: 'You feel so violated and there's so many of us that have suffered some kind of break-in before.

'You just don't know how you're going to react, you don't know how those instincts are going to kick in and sometimes they shock you.'

'I hope I never have to use it, I don't even know what I think but sometimes I just need that peace of mind when I go to bed knowing that that safety is there.'

The couple are pictured here celebrating their birthdays, and have been married for four years

The journalist appeared on Today Extra to talk to hosts David Campbell and Sonia Kruger about a robberythat turned ugly on Saturday morning in Newcastle, NSW

Poll Do you sleep with a weapon in the bedroom? Yes No Do you sleep with a weapon in the bedroom? Yes 116 votes

No 60 votes Now share your opinion





Squiers then joked that although she has a border collie, she doesn't think he would be the best guard dog.

The journalist appeared on Today Extra to talk to hosts David Campbell and Sonia Kruger about a robbery that turned ugly on Saturday morning in Newcastle, NSW.

A father who allegedly caught an intruder rifling through his baby daughter's bedroom was charged with murder after he broke the would-be burglar's neck as he tried to make a citizen's arrest.

Ben Batterham, 33, allegedly found Richard James Slater, 34, looking through his young daughter's room after the intruder broke into his home in Hamilton, a central suburb of Newcastle, around 3.30am on Saturday.
A sick koala found wandering near a housing estate in Queensland had to be sadly put down over Easter because he was emaciated and suffering from chlamydia.

The recent case has prompted warnings from conservation groups who say urban development is killing off the native animals as areas are bulldozed to make way for housing.

Resident Matt Watrach found the male koala while walking at Coomera Waters on the Gold Coast on Saturday and immediately contacted a not-for-profit animal rescue group Wildcare Australia.

'I spotted the koala walking backwards in circles,' Mr Watrach told Daily Mail Australia.

Resident Matt Watrach found the male koala while walking at Coomera Waters on the Gold Coast on Saturday and immediately contacted a not-for-profit animal rescue group Wildcare Australia

'I got a laundry basket to help get it off the road and bottle of water because it look emaciated. It drank half a bottle of water.

'The koala was holding my hand, I was afraid it would slice me. But it just didnt know what was going on.'

Mr Watrach was pictured giving the sick koala some water to help with the dehydration before wildlife volunteers arrived to take the animal to nearby Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.

But the koala, who vets say was about 10 years old, had to be euthanised after losing half of his body weight and was found to be suffering from conjunctivitis, which was caused by chlamydia.

Mr Watrach said there was a 300 metre stretch of bushland near his house but too many koalas were now living there due to housing developments in the area.

'They're running out of trees to feed from,' he said.

Mr Watrach was pictured giving the sick koala some water to help with the dehydration before wildlife volunteers arrived to take the animal to nearby Currumbin Wildlife Hospital

The koala, who vets say was about 10 years old, had to be euthanised after losing half of his body weight and was found to be suffering from conjunctivitis, which was caused by chlamydia

Resident Matt Watrach found the male koala while walking at Coomera Waters on the Gold Coast on Saturday and immediately contacted a not-for-profit animal rescue group Wildcare Australia

'We have had so many trees cut down, its like deforestation. I saw another three koalas in my street that afternoon. Theres too many in a small area.'

Coomera Conservation Group agreed that the koala population was in decline because of recent development.

'I think the recent koala situation yesterday with our local resident Matt was testament to land clearing thats happening in that area,' Nicole Taylor, a member of the group, told Daily Mail Australia.

'A lot of koalas have been displaced and are moving. It seems that they are becoming territorial and are being defensive around food.

'There's very little we can do at the moment because we can't bring back the bush. But we can protect the current population (of koalas) and lobby the local council around proper planning going forward.'

It comes after heartbreaking photos were released last year showing a starving young koala wandering through a pile of shredded wood in a large development site where the trees she called home once stood

The koala - named Ash - was rescued by the same group Wildcare Australia in October when she was found wandering through an area that had been bulldozed to make way for houses

It comes after heartbreaking photos were released last year showing a starving young koala wandering through a pile of shredded wood in a large development site where the trees she called home once stood.

The koala - named Ash - was rescued by the same group Wildcare Australia in October when she was found wandering through an area that had been bulldozed to make way for houses.

The forest at Pimpama just north of the Gold Coast would have been the koala's home range once she became independent from her mother.

It is close to where Mr Watrach found the sick koala at the weekend.

'There is now nothing left for her to return to,' Wildcare Australia said at the time.

'This is a sight that saddens us deeply as not only has Ash lost her home but thousands of other animals including birds, reptiles, kangaroos, wallabies, bandicoots, bats and echidnas also called the area "home".

Forest at Pimpama just north of the Gold Coast would have been the koala's (pictured bottom right) home range since she became independent from her mother

'Many of those animals would have no doubt have lost their life during this mass clearing exercise.'

The koala was thirsty and exhausted when she was found by rescue worker Ashley Fraser. She was taken to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital for a full health assessment.

The forest area cleared is part of the East Coomera-Pimpama urban development by Gold Coast City Council.

A koala conservation project set up by the council estimated there were about 500 koalas living in the 3,640 hectare area.

About 1,000 hectares of this area is already committed for development in association with the Coomera Town Centre.

The conservation project says it aims to move the most at-risk koalas from areas where habitat will be cleared to areas of secure habitat.
Police are on the hunt for a man who masturbated in front of a woman in a city park on Friday - the second time he's exposed himself to the woman on a walking trail.

The woman who police say was 'distressed' after the incident managed to snap a photo of the man from behind at midday on Friday.

The photo has been released by police who say they do not know if she is the only victim.

'It is concerning there have been two incidents in a month ... thanks to the quick thinking of the victim we now have a picture available of the man,' Inspector Renee Holmes of Leichhardt police told the Sydney Morning Herald.

A woman has taken this photo, believed to be of a man who has masturbated in front of her in a Glebe park twice in the past month

Police do not know if the man has exposed himself to anyone else at the park (stock image)

The man is described as being in his 20s, of Caucasion appearance and between 170 to 175 centimetres tall.

He is also thin with sandy blonde hair and a sleeve tattoo which extends below his elbow on his left arm.

The man was dressed in a white shirt, black pants and brown dress shoes.

He was carrying a blazer with him at the time of the incident.

The woman was on the Glebe walking track at about 12.20pm when man masturbated in front of her.

Police are calling for anyone with any information about the man to come forward.
A missionary who was injured in Belgium awoke from his coma on Saturday night and his injured companions are joining him on his road to recovery as well as sharing new grisly details from the terrifying blast.

Elder Richard Norby, 66, was put in a medically induced coma after undergoing surgery for the wounds he sustained in the Brussels airport terrorist attack, according to the Deseret News.

Medical staff woke Elder Norby on Saturday night and his family welcomed him with open arms.

Richard and fellow Mormon Elders Joseph Empey, 20, and Mason Wells, 19, and Sister Fanny Clain, 20, were also injured in one of the two explosions that occurred in the airport that day. Luckily, all of them survived tell the tale of that fateful day and all of them are in the process of healing with a little help from their loving families.

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Visits from family: Sister Fanny Rachel Clain, right, a French Mormon missionary injured in the bombings at the Brussels airport, gets a hug in her hospital room from her former companion in the France Paris LDS Mission, Sister Haylie VanDenBerghe

Bonding: Sister Fanny Rachel Clain, right, gets a hug from Sister Haylie VanDenBerghe, on Saturday. She has to have surgery to remove the shrapnel from her body as well as heal from her second degree burns

Elder Empey, whose head is covered in bandages following the blast still manages to find the strength to smile. He told the Deseret News over the weekend that the terrifying explosion left him unconscious.

'I just remember I opened my eyes and I saw lots of people laying around on the floors, it was pretty tragic. It was really scary. I just remember thoughts coming to me that, 'This is really happening, this is really a bomb.'"

Elder Empeys mother Amber told the Deseret News that Empey desperately went looking for his companions and at one point felt the need to hide behind a pillar because he could sense that something was very wrong.

'He was aware of what was going on enough to know to be scared and to protect himself, and that's just heartbreaking,' Amber Empey said. 'I dont know why that hit me so much.'

When Elder Empey did find his friends, he was horrified to see that Elder Wells was standing in a puddle of his own blood.

Elder Well's mother Kymberly told UV260 that Elder Empey instructed Wells to lay down and rest until help arrived.

Elder Mason Wells is greeted in a Belgian hospital by his parents on Thursday. He lost a significant amount of blood after the blast and said he remembers lying in a puddle of his own blood

Elder Wells told the paper that he remembers lying in a puddle of his own blood and says that doctors told him that he had lost a significant amount of it.

Wells told the Deseret News that someone came to put a suitcase under his bloody ankles and that Empey gave him a priesthood blessing asking that Wells be able to go home in one whole piece.

Elder Norby's wife, Sister Norby, was able to get in touch with Elder Empey on the phone and he notified her that her found Elder Wells, Elder Norby and Sister Clain.

He told Sister Norby over the phone that her beloved husband Elder Norby was being taken away on a stretcher.

'It was a really long day, but once we found him it was better, and they were being well taken care of,' Sister Norby said.

Miracle: Elder Norby, left, is no longer in a coma. His wife Pam, right, says its a miracle everyone survived

Richard went to Brussels airport with three other missionaries, Mason Wells (left), Joseph Empey (right) and Fanny Clain. All were injured in the explosion, but survived

Elder Wells will likely remain in the hospital for a few more weeks and needs to get surgery on his ruptured Achilles tendon.

He also has burns on his right hand and the right side of his head near his ear but doctors do not think the burns will become scars.

Jason Norby, pictured, flew to Brussels be by his father's side and watched him come out of his coma

Elder Empey's dad Court Empey said that the event has been of of 'the most difficult time of our lives,' but added that reuniting with their son has been heartwarming.

'It's amazing,' Amber Empey said.

'To walk in to see his cute smile and eyes and excited and thankful to see us. It was the greatest moment to see him... . He just is on the mend, and we just couldnt be more grateful that he's alive and that he's healing.'

Sister Clain was also visited by her family over the weekend.

Her father Thierry and her former mission companion, Sister Haylie VanDenBerghe, saw her in the hospital on Saturday where she has to have surgery to remove the shrapnel from her body as well as heal from her second degree burns.

Jason Norby, who flew to Brussels to be by his father's side, said that he was 'very grateful' that the missionaries survived.

'Especially this time of year  Good Friday, Easter season  it's good to see something positive, and come what may we're grateful for all of the many tender mercies, the blessings we've received through this difficult time,' he added.

Elder Norby is in stable condition but will need more surgeries before he is able to go home to Utah.

'We'll serve some other way,' Sister Pam Norby, who had a year left in their 18-month mission call.
A pipe bomb exploded in an alley nearby to Disneyland Park in California Easter Sunday.

Police were called to the scene at 600 block of North Anaheim Boulevard near Wilhelmina Street around 1.50 pm, after reports of a loud explosion.

The bomb appeared to be made of a metal material and was set on the ground at the base of a light pole against a concrete wall, Anaheim police Sgt. Daron Wyatt told OC Register.

It exploded against a concrete wall that separated commercial buildings to the east and residences to the west, said Wyatt.

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A pipe bomb exploded in an alley nearby to Disneyland Park in California Easter Sunday

It exploded against a concrete wall that separated commercial buildings to the east and residences to the west

The area is about three miles north of the Disneyland theme park in Anaheim, California (pictured)

The bomb apparently detonated with such force that 'one of the end caps blew a clean hole, almost as if a saw had cut it through a wooden fence about 40 feet south of the pole'.

After the explosion, minor charring and damage was visible on the concrete wall and pole.

Though no injuries were reported, some homes in the in the area around Alberta Street were briefly evacuated during the investigation and residents allowed to return by 3 pm, said Wyatt.

Tammy Farrell, 46, told OC Register she was inside a home right next to the alley when the explosion happened.

She said she thought something had fallen from the sky because of how loud the noise was.

The parents of her fiance - Brent Wechsler, 44 - have owned the home for 40 years and this was the first incident of its kind in the neighborhood, as far as he is aware.

The bomb apparently detonated with such force that one of the end caps blew a clean hole through the wooden fence

Though no injuries were reported, some homes in the in the area around Alberta Street were briefly evacuated during the investigation and were allowed to return by 3 pm

Wechsler said that whoever did it must be 'seriously disturbed' as all of his neighbors are 'good people'.

He added: 'It doesn't frighten me. It's just really, really strange.'

And Ana Trujillo, a receptionist at Hernandez Auto Sales, which is east of the explosion said she could smell 'burning chemicals' and saw a 'black container with smoke coming out of it'.

While there have been no reports of anything similar to this nearby, police did respond to a bank robbery on the 900 block of South Brookhurst where a hoax pipe bomb was left, but Wyatt said that it was 'completely unrelated' as the 'mechanics were different'.

And Wyatt was clear about the seriousness of the North Anaheim Boulevard incident Sunday.

He told OC Register: 'It's serious  especially on Easter Sunday with people gathering.

'It's very fortunate that there wasn't someone in the alley that was injured.'
It looks like something from a video game, but the audacious theft is all too real: Ten men breaking into a car dealership under cover of darkness, locating car keys, waiting for their minivan to bust open the gates and then driving off, single file, into the night.

The theft, which occurred at Tampa's Prespa Auto Sales early Friday morning, was slick and organized - and completely caught on camera, Jalopnik reported.

But the men who took the vehicles, clad in hoodies that hide their identities, don't seem to care one bit that everything they do in the 40-minute heist has been filmed for posterity.

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Thieves in the night: Surveillance footage from Prespa Auto Sales in Tampa, Florida, shows two masked men breaking in through a window early Friday morning and searching through drawers

Uncovered: The thief on the bottom-right of the screen appears to have found where the dealership keeps its keys; shortly afterward the two leave the office to continue their heist

The edited footage posted on YouTube by the Tampa Police Department begins at 6.36am with footage of the interior of the second-hand car dealership's office, as two thieves climb through a broken window.

'Not really sure why they picked that time specifically, but I can tell you that certainly under the cover of darkness, more crime can occur,' Lt. Anna Richardson of the Tampa Police Department told WSVN.

They rifle drawers and take what appear to be a box of keys and, for reasons that are not clear, an office wastepaper basket.

The footage then cuts to the lot, where at least nine men are seen skulking around the cars, seemingly using the automatic lock buttons on the key fobs to locate their new cars.

Others try keys in locks to find out what they'll be driving home that night.

Sneak thieves: The footage, which was posted on YouTube by Tampa Police Department, shows at least nine men skulkng through the car lot, looking for vehicles

Lock, stock and barrel: Some try the locks of various cars, while others use the remote lock buttons on the key fobs to find out which is 'their' vehicle

Face time: Many of the men are unmasked, and their faces can be glimpsed at various points in the video

Several of the men are not wearing masks, and their faces are glimpsed by the many rolling security cameras.

This is one of two elements of the operation that doesn't seem professional. The second follows moments later, as one of the men appears to drive a white sedan into another of the cars that is crammed into the lot.

The thieves crowd around the vehicle and inspect the damage, and soon more of their members are there.

The men seem to discuss tactics and maneuvering plans as if this were a scrape in a mall car park and not the middle of a high-stakes heist.

Finally, the white sedan backs up and they return to their vehicles. This wasn't the only 'scratch' that night - Jalopnik reported that 14 of the cars left behind by thieves sustained damage.

Getting into a scrape: Some 14 of the cars left behind were damaged in some way. One moment in the video shows how that may have happened, as the white car in the bottom-left appears to clip the car in front

Crash course: The thieves then gather around to discuss the best course of action to extricate the cars

Ready to roll: Finally, they decide on what to do, and most return to their vehicles as the white car backs up

The video concludes with its most dramatic moment - a minivan, driving at high speed, rams the front gate and fence, ripping them out of the ground and leaving a wide gap.

Two men run from the minivan as others sprint into other cars on the lot, including a large pickup.

The men then form an orderly queue to leave the dealership, although their getaway is slightly hampered by a sudden burst of traffic that leads to some stop-start getaways.

A final shot in the video appears to show the last two thieves attempting to flee in separate cars, but being held up when a security feature in one of their vehicles causes it to stall and the lights to begin flashing.

The other driver then stops partway in the road just outside the destroyed gate, causing traffic to pause, while his buddy sprints into the car. They then drive away into the night.

Gate crasher: A white minivan, which had been stolen earlier in the day and had been doing laps of the block, then smashes through the front gate, taking a large part of the fence with it

Join the queue: The drivers then line up in a (mostly) orderly fashion while they wait to escape

The minivan that took the men to the dealership was identified as a Honda Odyssey that had been stolen in Florida earlier that night, Jalopnik reported.

It had been circling the lot while the men collected the keys and got their cars ready.

The site also said that two of the cars - a 2012 Dodge Ram pickup and a 2005 BMW X3 - were recovered by Friday evening, WFLA reported.

The BMW was involved in a single-car crash on Interstate 4. Its occupants fled before authorities arrived.

Police are still searching for all suspects involved in the theft.
Former NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly criticized Belgian authorities on Sunday

Former NYPD Commissioner Raymond Kelly blamed Belgian authorities for failing to stop the Brussels terror attacks on Tuesday, which claimed four Americans among the 34 victims.

Kelly accused the Belgian government and police forces for failing to share intelligence amongst each other as well as with other EU nations in a radio interview on Sunday, the NY Daily News reported.

Kelly said: 'I think they never received a wake up call as we did, as far as 9/11 is concerned.

During John Catsimatidis radio show AM 970, Kelly said: 'Belgium has a complex government. It has police forces that dont talk to each other.

'I think they never received a wake up call as we did, as far as 9/11 is concerned.

'They sort of have remained disjointed for quite a while . . .

Theyre not sharing intelligence internally in Belgium; and theyre not sharing it with other members of the European Union.'

The terror attacks killed 14 at Brussels airport (pictured) at 8am and 20 more at Maelbeek station 79 minutes later. Among the 34 victims were four Americans

Kelly slammed the Belgian authorities and said: 'I think they never received a wake up call as we did, as far as 9/11 is concerned'. He echoed the mounting criticism after Turkey's president revealed Ibrahim El Bakraoui had been arrested last summer near Syria before he was shipped back to Belgium

Kelly's statements mirrored Belgian Interior Minister Jan Jambon's own assessment of the country's structural problems following Tuesday's attacks.

With 19 municipalities, 19 mayors and six police departments in Brussels, Jambon acknowledged the difficulty in sharing intelligence among the separate divisions, which operate in both Dutch and French.

He also conceded the country's shortcomings after the Turkish President said one of the Brussels Airport terrorists, Ibrahim El Bakraoui, was arrested near the Syrian border last summer and returned to Belgium with warnings that he was 'a foreign fighter'.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Belgian authorities failed to confirm the suspect's links to terrorism.

Jambon, whose offer to resign on Thursday was declined by the prime minister, said: 'There have been errors.'

He also said Belgium's justice system and security services are still lagging behind despite the government's 600 million euro ($670 million) investment into police and security services over the past two years.

The country of 11million is, for its size, the biggest European supplier of foreign fighters in Syria.

Belgium's far-right protesters hijacked a peace march in the Belgian capital today as the country is still reeling.

They gathered at Place de la Bourse in Brussels this afternoon and unfurled a banner denouncing ISIS before police used a water cannon on the angry crowd.

In scenes that compounded a week of grief for Belgians, protesters calling themselves 'The Nation' were seen making Nazi salutes as they became embroiled in a heated argument with pro-migrant groups.

People have gathered at Place de la Bourse in the city, leaving behind candles, photographs and flowers to commemorate the dead
The Prime Minister grinned briefly as she entered Downing Street after a run in the central London fog this morning as MailOnline can reveal that all her 'In Liz we Truss' merchandise was expunged. The party's cups, travel mugs, bags and T-shirts celebrating her election 45 days ago, each costing between 14.95 and 24,95, have been deleted from the website and pulled from sale. Wearing her gym kit and muddy trainers, the outgoing Tory leader, now considered the most disastrous in party history, gave a wry smile at police as she skipped into the back door of No 10 at around 8am. She will spend her last weekend as PM at Chequers, No 10 has said. The UK's shortest serving PM will still receive severance pay to the tune of 18,860 - equal to 419.11 for each of the 44 days she served. She also earned 10,000 in that time because he ministerial salary went up. Ms Truss is beginning her final week as Prime Minister as her rivals circle to take her job - but there is also increasing anger about the cash and benefits she is leaving with and demands for her to forgo them. She will now also be entitled to claim up to 115,000-a-year in an allowance for former Prime Ministers. Her predecessors Sir John Major, Sir Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson are all believed to have claimed it. Ms Truss will also benefit from a taxpayer-funded pension as a former minister and Prime Minister. Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer today joined calls for Ms Truss to reject her allowance and hand back any payout, declaring that she had 'not earned the right' to keep it. He said: 'She should turn it down. I think that's the right thing to do. She's done 44 days in office, she's not really entitled to it, she should turn it down and not take it'.
The homes are in suburbs with high capital gains and low rental yields

the cause of Sydney's housing shortage

Some of Sydney and Melbourne's most desirable suburbs are being left vacant by property investors who benefit more from negative gearing than they do by filling the homes.

Now experts are calling for Sydney property investors to fill their empty properties and end the 'artificial' housing shortage the city is experiencing.

UNSW Futures Research Centre has found that one in seven homes in the inner-city, eastern suburbs and north shore suburbs of Sydney are empty.

A similar report shows up to 88,000 homes are vacant in Melbourne's inner suburbs leading researchers to believe it is a nation-wide program.

Some of the most desirable suburbs in central Sydney are the most vacant according to new research which suggests 90,000 homes sit empty as the housing crisis worsens

A similar report shows up to 88,000 homes are vacant in Melbourne's inner suburbs

Dr Laurence Troy and Professor Bill Randolph have published an article in the Sydney Morning Herald which explains investors are securing big tax properties so they can benefit from tax-breaks.

This means they benefit more from leaving their properties empty than they do by filling them.

It is estimated around 90,000 properties are sitting vacant in some of the city's most desirable suburbs.

'The number of empty dwellings could more than account for the notional supply shortfalls,' Dr Laurence Troy and Professor Bill Randolph wrote.

Homes in Wooloomooloo (pictured) and Potts Point are some of the most likely to be empty

The areas which see the highest amount of vacancies are those where capital gains are high and rental yields are low.

The experts say this is 'no coincidence' and reflective of negative gearing.

A study in Melbourne last year suggested more than 80,000 properties in the Victorian capital were left empty The Age reported.

'Having property sitting vacant has a very high cost on the economy. It's very destructive to our national prosperity,' Catherine Cashmore, author of the Prosper report said.

The researchers in that study used water-use data to reveal how many homes in the city area were being under used.

Researchers say this is because of the impact of negative gearing where investors are better-off receiving huge tax-breaks for the properties than they are by filling them (stock image CBD)

The recently revealed Sydney study showed fringe suburbs which experience higher rental yields and lower capital gains had fewer empty properties.

Doctor Laurence Troy has said on social media that he and his team want 'houses for people to live in!'

The Futures Research Centre team believe both the housing supply and shortage issues can be solved by filling those vacant properties.

They explained that the structure of the housing market is driven by a poor match in supply and demand.

The research suggests the current housing shortage could almost be met if the 90,000 estimated empty homes were filled

'This only further exacerbates the emerging spatial inequalities experienced in our major cities, driving affordability in central, well connected and serviced parts of the city,' they wrote.

'Failure of governments to acknowledge the pervasive prevalence of empty homes only adds to the ongoing un-affordability crisis,' they wrote.

Haymarket and The Rocks are the most vacant suburbs in Sydney but a more than 13 per cent of homes in Manly, Potts Point, Wooloomooloo, Darlinghurst and Kirribilly are also vacant.

The researchers noted many desirable inner-city suburbs have also been left vacant in other Australian state capitals.
The freakiest of 'freak accidents' occurred Friday evening, police say, when a 56-year-old unnamed Tennessee woman managed to drive UP a telephone pole and get tangled in high-voltage wires for hours until rescue crews could bring her down.

The accident occurred around 11.30pm in Medina, police told The Jackson Sun, when the woman's car went off-road, hit a fence and drove up a guy-wire connecting the pole to the ground.

She then drove up the pole itself until her front tire caught on a wire at the top, leaving her suspended in the air, in a scene captured by WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News. Astonishingly, the woman was not seriously injured.

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Cable car: This extraordinary scene occurred in Tennessee Friday evening when a car drove up the guy-wires connecting the pole to the ground and became tangled in cables. The 56-year-old driver wasn't seriously hurt

Wheely unlikely: The car was being held up by a cable that got caught around a wheel. The driver, who is not being named by police, was stranded for two hours while emergency services dealt with electrical cables

Medina Fire Chief Jeff Rollins told the Sun, 'I've been doing this for 38 years, and I've never seen this before.'

But though emergency crews were quickly notified by those in the residential area, rescue crews were not able to bring down the woman straight away.

'We had to call the power company and got them there because the pole that she was hanging from was connected to a high voltage power line,' Rollins told WBBJ 7.

The power company feared that a broken line might not only result in the car dropping to the ground, it could also knock out power to the whole area, he said.

The woman had to wait two hours before emergency crews were able to use a power company's cherry picker to extract her from the car at around 1.30am.She was taken by ambulance to Jackson-Madison County General Hospital and later released.

Police say speed was a factor in her extraordinary predicament, but denied that alcohol, drugs, distractions or medical conditions were involved.

The car was later lowered down to the ground and taken away on a flatbed truck.

Reports circulated that bottles fell out of the vehicle when it was being lowered, but local resident Jeff Wilson, whose house is next to the scene of the extraordinary crash, denied the claim to WBBJ 7.

'I never saw any bottles fall out the truck,' he said. 'The pictures I took and the videos I took, I cant say that I did.'

Police have not released the woman's name, and at the time of writing, she had not been charged with any crime.
There are long and frustrating delays for thousands of travellers trying to head home at the end of the Easter break, with delays of more than an hour in some places.

Roads in and out of Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide are choked with traffic as the country winds down from the long weekend.

The trip back to Sydney is proving particularly taxing with a 15-kilometre traffic jam heading south on the Pacific Highway, outside of Port Macquarie, causing delays of up to an hour.

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The trip back into the capital cities at the end of the Easter long weekend is proving as taxing as the trip out was for travellers last week (above)

Westbound traffic is even worse, it's queued on the Kings Highway in Braidwood for almost 18 kilometres and will add an extra 60 minutes travel time.

And Live Traffic NSW reports a 15 kilometre traffic jam south-bound on the Pacific Highway north of Port Macquarie.

The return from the Blue Mountains is proving difficult too with a four kilometre traffic jam around Blackheath.

NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol officers are urging motorists to drive safely when travelling home this Easter Monday.

Traffic near Bargo was backed up for several kilometres as families headed home form their holiday celebrations

There have been more than 270 major incidents across the State during Operation Tortoise so far, with 102 people injured.

5216 people have been issued speeding infringements.

Other hotspots include northbound traffic on the Princes Highway in Nowra which is queued for about four kilometres, adding an extra 25 minutes travel time.

The trip back to Sydney is proving particularly taxing with a 15-kilometre traffic jam heading south on the Pacific Highway, outside of Port Macquarie, causing delays of up to an hour

Melbourne Traffic is reporting a combination of returning holiday-makers mixed with Geelong versus Hawthorn traffic has created congestion on the Princes Freeway through the afternoon.

Westbound traffic on the Princes Freeway East is also nose to tail, queuing past Trafalgar.

Westbound traffic on the South Gippsland Highway is queued up from the Koo Wee Rup Bypass to Tooradin - the delays across the city from returning holidaymakers is set to peak at 6pm.

NSW Police Traffic and Highway Patrol officers are urging motorists to drive safely when travelling home this Easter Monday

Meantime, while it's been a fatality free Easter weekend so far on Queensland roads, but the number of drivers caught under the influence of drugs has more than tripled.

Police say 182 drivers across the state have tested positive to drugs since the start of their five-day Easter campaign on Thursday.
ISIS 'sleeper cells' are reported to be plotting more than 20 deadly terror attacks on Britain's streets in a follow-up to the atrocities in Brussels and Paris.

Intelligence officials at MI5 suspect that more than 50 jihadis - among a reported 450 extremists living in the UK - could be involved in the plans.

Up to 25 serious plots in support of ISIS or Al-Qaeda are said to be being tracked by British security services.

Security fears: ISIS 'sleeper cells' are reported to be plotting more than 20 deadly terror attacks on Britain's streets in a follow-up to the atrocities in Brussels and Paris (file photo)

But there is also reportedly a concern among intelligence chiefs that sleeper cells yet to be detected could launch an attack with no warning, according to The Sun

Around 450 suspects are understood to be the focus of monitoring by the security services, with 50 of those under even more intense scrutiny by MI5 and counter terrorism police.

A former British intelligence officer said: 'Everyone in the counter-terrorism community believes an attack in Britain will take place.

'For some time now it has been a case of not "if" but "when" and the pace of investigations to try and stop this happening is extremely dynamic and fast-moving.

'There is no respite and no sign of the threat to Britain going away.'

Last week ISIS threatened to hit the UK 'harder and more bitter' after claiming responsibility for the Brussels bombings.

Extra security: Intelligence officials at MI5 suspect that more than 50 jihadis could be involved in the plans. The Brussels attacks led Britain to ramp up security with armed officers taking to the streets (file photo)

The attacks led Britain to ramp up security with armed officers taking to the streets near major landmarks, train stations and airports.

Yesterday it was revealed that a specially-created 70-strong SAS team will be on standby around the clock ready to fly to the scene of any terrorist incident in this country at a moments notice.

The new airborne special forces team, dubbed Blue Thunder, has been rehearsing a number of possible scenarios for months and will be at the command of Home Secretary Theresa May, according to the Sunday Express.

Everyone in the counter-terrorism community believes an attack in Britain will take place A former British intelligence officer

Heavily-armed soldiers will be dropped at the site of the attack with a mission to trap and secure any terrorists who remain at large.

Meanwhile more than 2,000 extra armed police officers will be stationed on Britain's streets after an ISIS agent linked to the Paris and Brussels atrocities was found to have taken photographs of a new shopping complex in Birmingham.

The heightened police presence in Britain came after at least 31 people were killed and 270 injured in a series of bomb attacks inside an airport terminal and Metro station in the Belgian capital.

The explosions happened a day after the Belgium Interior Minister warned of possible revenge attacks after the arrest of Paris massacre suspect Salah Abdeslam in the city earlier this month.

Last November 130 people were killed in one night in co-ordinated terror attacks across Paris.
A British holidaymaker has been rescued from the Atlantic after apparently trying to swim to her cruise liner when it left port without her.

Susan Brown, 65, was pulled from the ice-cold waters in the early hours of Sunday with severe hypothermia after more than four hours swimming a third of a mile out to sea in the hope of making it to her ship, the Marco Polo.

She is thought to have jumped into the water from beside Madeira Airport after believing her husband Michael - with whom she had argued - had got back on board when she lost sight of him.

The pair had cut short a 32 day tour from West Indies on day 28 - with cruise operator Cruise & Maritime Voyages offering them flights out of the Portuguese island to fly back to Bristol on Saturday evening.

A British holidaymaker has been rescued from the Atlantic after apparently trying to swim to her cruise liner when it left port without her. Susan Brown, 65, was pulled from the ice-cold waters with severe hypothermia after four hours swimming 1,600ft out to sea in the hope of making it to her ship, the Marco Polo (pictured)

Swim: Mrs Brown is believed to have tried to swim to the Marco Polo boat after reaching to the water from these steps, just next to Santa Cruz airport

Marildo Freitas (left) and fellow fishermen brothers Carlos (middle) and Leonardo (right) Correia claim they were the ones that pulled Mrs Brown from the water

However, it appears that after losing her husband some time before boarding the jet home, Mrs Brown became convinced he had returned to the vessel.

When the ship then passed the coastal runway, she is said to have taken to the water to make chase.

Gripping her handbag the entire time, Mrs Brown made it more than 1,600ft before struggling. according to local reports.

Her life was eventually saved by passing fishermen who heard her panicked screams for help shortly after midnight.

From a sun soaked cafe in Santa Cruz, brothers Leonardo and Carlos Correia and fellow fisherman Marildo Freitas claimed that they were the ones who had rescued Mrs Brown and said she was just half an hour from death when they pulled her from the chilly water.

'I just saw her pale white face bobbing in the water,' Marildo told MailOnline.

'She was barely conscious  she's lucky to be alive  I don't think she would have lasted another 30 minutes.'

Lucky to be alive: The fishermen said she was just 30 minutes from death after swimming for hours

Rescue: The men said they pulled her from the water and tried to warm her up as they called for help

'At first we thought she had fallen from the cruise ship.'

'She just said thank god, oh thank god when we found her  she was so cold she could hardly say anything, we just wrapped her up and phoned for help.'

'It was very scary seeing this white face bobbing above the water  it reminded me of the film Titanic at the end where people were drowning.'

The three men said her small handbag probably saved her life as it had filled with air and acted as a buoyancy aid.

According to Marildo, she was lucky that the sea was calm and that she was able to be seen thanks to the full moon.

While authorities have not confirmed where Mrs Brown is thought to have jumped into the water, locals believe she entered the water very near the airport  where rocky steps lead down to the sea.

It is understood that she was taking a taxi to the Santa Cruz airport to catch a flight back to the UK after having a row with her husband, but changed her mind once she got there.

The cruise ship left Funchal Port at 8pm on Saturday night and she was not recovered from the water until 12.15am on Sunday morning, when the three men immediately raised the alarm.

Funchal port captain Felix Marques told local press Mrs Brown had been a passenger on board the Marco Polo.

He told newspaper Correio da Manha: 'She was 500 metres from the coast when fishermen heard her shouting.

Mrs Brown is thought to have jumped into the water from beside Madeira Airport after believing her husband Michael - with whom she had argued - had got back on board when she lost sight of him. She did not make it to the vessel and was rescued four hours later

Mrs Brown was on her way to the airport to fly home before she changed her mind and began to swim

'When they reached her she was clinging onto a handbag she had been swimming with.'

He continued: 'The only version of Saturday night's events we have so far is that of the woman who was rescued from the sea.

'She said at the hospital when she arrived that she and her husband had cut short their trip after arriving in Madeira on Saturday and had gone to the airport to buy two plane tickets to fly back to the UK with easyJet that same day.

'It's still a bit unclear at the moment because we haven't had a proper chance to speak with her ourselves given her condition.

'But she's said she lost contact with her husband at some point while at the airport and jumped in the sea to try to reach the ship after seeing it in the distance as it left port because she assumed he had changed his mind and was back on board.

'She was very lucky to survive. She was in the water for more than three hours and was suffering from the effects of hypothermia when she was rescued by fishermen who heard her cries for help around 12.20am on Sunday.

'All she had on her was the clothes she was wearing and a handbag which she was clinging to.

'She could easily died if she had not been rescued when she was.'

Mr and Mrs Brown had been on the ship for four weeks before disembarking at the weekend.

Portuguese police confirmed today that Mr Brown had returned to Britain alone on Saturday night.

Funchal-based maritime police commander Felix Marques said: 'We have confirmation he flew back to Britain on Saturday but are still trying to speak to him to see if he can clarify some of the events leading up to the incident involving his wife.

'It's only a hypothesis but we think one of the reasons she may have been able to stay above water for so long was that her handbag kept her afloat.

'We haven't been able to speak to her yet and am not sure we will be able to now until tomorrow morning at the earliest.

Local reports say the couple decided to call it short with only four days to go - a short sail to Lisbon before flying back to Britain - after becoming embroiled in an argument.

It is thought that Mrs Brown entered the water close to the island's airport at 8pm on Saturday evening.

She is believed to have jumped into the water from beside Madeira Airport after believing her husband Michael - with whom she had argued - had got back on board despite when she lost sight of him. The boat had set off from the island's capital Funchal moments earlier

Local daily Jornal da Madeira said: 'Everything is pointing to the woman failing to return to the ship and instead deciding to go to the airport to catch a flight.

'When she reached the airport the tourist saw the ship passing and threw herself into the sea with the aim of reaching the vessel.'

Mrs Brown was admitted to hospital on Sunday and diagnosed with hypothermia. She was later transferred to a psychiatric hospital.

Police have confirmed her husband, 69-year-old Michael, did not return to the Marco Polo. The cruise company today stated that he had taken his flight back to Bristol and is now home.

When she reached the airport the tourist saw the ship passing and threw herself into the sea with the aim of reaching the vessel

It is not yet known if he now plans on returning to the island to visit his wife.

Neighbours at the couples 300,000 home in Fontmell Magna, near Shaftesbury, Dorset, described Mrs Brown as a Christian who was actively involved in church life. They said that the couple have no children.

One friend added: Sue was very much looking forward to the cruise. She was over the moon with it.

Officers are thought to be planning to interview Mrs Brown to try to glean more details of Saturday night's bizarre incident.

The Marco Polo docked in Madeira on Saturday morning around 10am from Barbados and left the island around 8pm the same day.

By that point, the couple are both believed to have been at the local airport 20 miles east along the coast, but not together.

Newspaper Correio da Manha stated: 'Annoyed with her husband, a British tourist aged 65 abandoned the cruise liner Marco Polo in Funchal port with the intention of flying home.

'But when she was at the airport she saw the ship on the horizon, had second thoughts and threw herself into the water to try to return to the ship.

'She was rescued from the water four hours later suffering hypothermia.'

A worker at Nelio Mendonca Hospital, where the pensioner was taken, said today: 'Mrs Brown is not really in a position to speak at the moment.'

The Marco Polo docked in Madeira on Saturday morning around 10am from Barbados and left the island around 8pm the same day. Mrs Brown is said to have entered the water shortly after 8pm and was rescued at around midnight

Authorities are waiting to speak to Mrs Brown, who is recovering in hospital before being flown back to the UK

Port captain Marques added: 'The only version of events we have so far is the one she gave the hospital after being admitted in the early hours of Sunday morning and we are hoping to speak to her in the next few hours if we get the permission of the doctors to do so.

'We are also investigating whether there were any incidents on board the Marco Polo that might enlighten us as to why the couple cut short their trip as our understanding is they were due to continue on the vessel to its final destination in Bristol.'

The Marco Polo cruise liner was due to dock in the Portuguese capital Lisbon this morning at 8am and will leave Lisbon for Bristol at 5pm today.

It comes as operators of the Marco Polo Cruise & Maritime Voyages said the two passengers left the cruise for personal reasons on Saturday.

In official statement, CMV said: 'Following their request, CMV assisted with Mr and Mrs Brown's flight arrangements to the UK and taxi transfer from the ship to Madeira's airport.

'Having departed Funchal, CMV was subsequently notified by their local port agent that Mrs Brown had been rescued at sea. CMV has been informed by local authorities that Mrs Brown's condition is stable.

'On receiving this news CMV was naturally most concerned as it understood that the couple had flown back together to the UK.

'Mr Brown was contacted immediately by CMV who offered assistance and attempted to gain some insight into what had transpired following Mr and Mrs Brown's disembarkation.

'CMV also liaised with the Foreign Office who, after recuperation in a Funchal hospital, will be making arrangements for her repatriation.'

A Foreign Office spokesman said: We are in regular contact with a hospital in Madeira to check on the welfare of a British national.
Rabbi Mendel Jacobs (pictured) - the only Scottish-born Rabbi living in Scotland - initiated the historic process for getting a kosher tartan

They waited 300 years to have their own tartan, but for the 6,400 Jewish people living in Scotland there has finally been a victory.

A rabbi initiated the process of the officially registered plaid, meaning Scottish Jews can now dance their jigs in officially registered attire.

The tartan, featuring distinctive tones of navy and burgundy, is a kosher non wool-linen mix which abides by shatnez - the Jewish law prohibiting the mixture of wool and linen in garments.

Religious experts and tartan authorities worked together to come up with a design that represent both Jewish values and Scottish history.

The tartan is registered with the Scottish National Register of Tartan in the name of the Jewish Community of Scotland.

The colours, weave, and number of threads have all been picked for their importance in Judaism.

The tartan design features blue and white, the colours of both the Israeli and Scottish flags, with the central gold line representing the gold from the Ark in the Biblical Tabernacle.

The silver is to represent the silver that adorns the Scroll of the Law, while the red depicts the traditional Kiddush wine.

There are seven lines in the central motif and three in the flag representations - both numbers of great significance in Judaism

Rabbi Mendel Jacobs - the only Scottish-born Rabbi living in Scotland - chose the kosher tartan.

The tartan invention began in 2008 when a Glaswegian dentist, Dr Clive Schmulian, sat next to Paul Harris, editor of the Jewish Telegraph, at a charity dinner in Glasgow.

The tartan design features blue and white, the colours of both the Israeli and Scottish flags, with the central gold line representing the gold from the Ark in the Biblical Tabernacle

Clive was wearing a Flower of Scotland tartan kilt and was being subjected to questioning by Mr Harris about whether there has ever been a Jewish kilt or Jewish tartans.

'There aren't any,' he told the Jerusalem Post. 'So we commissioned Slanj, a leading kilt outlet in Scotland to come up with three designs.

'We put them to an online poll on the Jewish Telegraph's website, 10,000 people voted, one was chosen and the winning design was announced.

'Our aim is for the tartan to be worn by Scottish Jews, ex-pat Scottish Jews, members of Jewish organizations, individuals of any religion with links to the Jewish and Israeli communities, so we also expect interest from expatriates and Jewish people in Scotland.'

The first Jewish person recorded as living in Edinburgh is 1691.

Most Scottish Jews arrived in the 1890s, when Scottish shipping companies were active in transporting Jewish passengers from Eastern Europe to America.

The plaid is registered with the Scottish National Register of Tartan in the name of the Jewish Community of Scotland

Thousands of passengers were routed through Glasgow and when they arrived, many Jewish immigrants decided to cut their journeys short, settling in Scotland instead of New York.

Passengers who were unable to meet the rigorous health standards demanded on Ellis Island also sometimes decided to stay in Scotland, and build their new lives there.

Scotland's Jewish community rose to the challenge of providing for the influx of Eastern European Jews.

In 1908, at the peak of Jewish immigration, only 75 received state-funded statutory poor relief in all of Scotland.
Comes a week after 10,000 people attended a pro-bullfighting protest in Valencia, eastern Spain

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Spanish bullfighters did not get an easy ride during the first bout of the season, being held across the country on Easter Sunday as is tradition.

Images from several bullrings show matadors and banderilleros being thrown about and gored by the angry animals as they are baited in the public arena.

Earlier in the day, dozens of animal rights activists staged a protest against bullfighting in central Madrid which involved men and women dressed in nothing but black underwear, lying in a square covered in fake blood.

Going down: Spanish matador Ivan Fandino is gored by a bull during the Resurrection Sunday bullfight at Las Ventas bullring in Madrid

Banderillero Antonio Jimenez 'Lili' is gored by his first bull of the evening during a bullfight held at the Real Maestranza bullring in Seville

Overpowered: Spanish bullfighter Jose Maria Manzanares is overturned by a bull during a first bullfight season in Arles, southern France

Playing the role of the slain bulls, the group demanded an end to the tradition of bullfighting, seen by many as a 'sport' and an essential part of Spanish heritage.

Men and women used theatre blood and red paint to symbolise the suffering of the bulls, and had strewn fake money and sand around them to symbolise the money made from the spectacle in the ring.

The protest came just days after a large pro-bullfighting march in the eastern Spanish city of Valencia, where thousands of fans gathered to defend what they describe as 'culture'.

Valencia's government says over 10,000 participants marched to the city's bullring last Sunday, after EU lawmakers recently declared their opposition to using farm subsidies to raise cattle for bullfighting.

Spanish bullfighter Jose Maria Manzanares fights a bull during a bullfight held on the occasion of the 'Feria de Paques' Easter Festivities

Up he goes: Mr Manzanares is thrown about by a bull after baiting the animal in the bullring in southern France

Images from several bullrings in Spain and southern France show matadors and banderilleros being thrown about and gored by the angry animals as they are baited in the public arena

Anti-fighting: A female activist crawls across a 'bullring' while covered in fake blood during an anti-bullfighting protest in Spain

Not entertainment: Men and women painted themselves with fake blood and laid down in a 'bullring' in a square in Madrid on Sunday

The protesters, accompanied by several dressed activists standing beside the 'ring' demanded the abolition of bullfighting

Several of the protesters also spat fake blood on the ground to symbolise the killing of the bulls during the spectacle

Animal rights activists also had fake banderillas stuck to them - barbed and decorated sticks used to weaken the bull during the fight

It is likely to have been a chilly experience for the animal rights activists with temperatures around 15 degrees in the Spanish capital

The protest intended to highlight the suffering of the bulls during the 'tradition' of bullfighting in Spain, and to push for its abolition

Debated issue: Fake money was strewn across the 'ring' where the animal rights activist lay in the sun

The protest came just days after a large pro-bullfighting march in the eastern Spanish city of Valencia, where thousands of fans gathered to defend what they describe as 'culture'

Despite protests, bullfighting is popular in Spain, with fans considering it an essential part of Spanish heritage and culture
A Florida teenager has been shot dead by an armed security guard at an apartment block after he brandished a BB gun.

Stephen Brenor, 15, of Lakeland, died from gun shot injuries after he was struck by 19-year-old Shawn Plain, the guard at the Willow Glen Apartments in the city.

According to a police report, Plain was inside the laundry room at the apartment block charging his cell phone.

The scene outside the Willow Glen Apartments in Lakeland where 15-year-old Stephen Brenor was shot dead by security guard Shawn Plain, 19

He then saw a black teenager enter with what he thought was a handgun pointed at him.

The security guard then felt a stinging in his face, and believing he had been shot, pulled out his weapon and opened fire at Brenor and his friends.

The group fled the scene and tried to take cover but one of the bullets struck Brenor as he walked into the parking lot.

Plain returned to the laundry room to collect his cell phone and call 911 before discovering his victim lying on the ground.

According to Lakeland Police, the guard then apologised to Brenor when he realised his injuries.

Brenor was taken to hospital but later died as a result of a gunshot injury. He was also identified by police as a documented associate gang member.

Brenor was shot after Plain saw him brandish what he thought was a handgun and says that he acted in self defense

The gun that Brenor pointed at Plain. It has since emerged that the gun was a replica and in fact a BB gun

His black replica handgun was found on the ground next to him and police described it as a Ruger pellet gun.

Meanwhile, Plain was taken to Lakeland Regional Health Centre and treated for two pellet wounds to his face.

A Lakeland Police Department spokesman said: 'The homicide investigation is ongoing at this time as detectives continue to canvass the area and interview witnesses.'

However, Fox 13 reports that investigators are treating it as a self defense shooting and Plain is not likely to be charged.
An American Indian reserve will have the descendants of stolen bison returned from Canada - more than 100 years after they were sold.

The bison will be shipped from Alberta's Elk Island National Park to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation next month after a 2014 treaty among tribes in the US and Canada.

That agreement aims to restore bison - also known as buffalo - to areas of the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains where hundreds of millions once roamed.

Plains bison roam in a section of the Elk Island National Park, Canada. Descendants of a bison herd captured and sent to Canada more than 140 years ago will be relocated to a Montana American Indian reservation

'For thousands of years the Blackfeet lived among the buffalo here. The buffalo sustained our way of life, provided our food, clothing, shelter,' Blackfeet Chairman Harry Barnes said.

'It became part of our spiritual being. We want to return the buffalo.'

The 89 plains bison will form the nucleus of a herd that tribal leaders envision will soon roam freely across a vast landscape: the Blackfeet reservation, nearby Glacier National Park and the Badger-Two Medicine wilderness - more than 4,000 square miles combined.

Bison were hunted to near-extinction in the late 1800s as European settlers advanced across the once-open American West.

WHERE THE BUFFALO ROAMED The Blackfeet Reservation, headquartered in Browning, is the third largest reservation in Montana encompassing approximately 1.5 million acres. The reservation is home to 56% of the enrolled tribal members and is the largest Indian population in Montana. There are three branches of the Blackfeet peoples-the Northern Blackfeet (Siksika), the Blood and the Piegan or Pikuni. The tribe call themselves "Niitsitapi" (nee-itsee-TAH-peh) meaning "the real people." The reservation's economy is primarily agriculture based. The principal crops are wheat, barley and hay. Source: Tribal Nations Advertisement

Most of the animals that survive today are in commercial herds, raised for their meat and typically interbred with cattle. The Blackfeet have a commercial bison herd established in 1972 that numbers more than 400 animals.

The lineage of Elk Island's bison, which experts say are free of cattle genes, traces back to a small group of animals captured by several American Indians on Blackfeet land just south of Canada.

Those bison were later sold to two men, Charles Allard and Michel Pablo, who formed what became known as the Pablo-Allard herd. By the early 1900s, the Pablo-Allard herd was said to be the largest collection of the animals remaining in the U.S.

After US officials rejected a sale offer from Pablo, the Canadian government purchased most of the bison. The animals were then shipped train from Ravalli, Montana, to Elk Island, according to park officials and Western historians.

'They've made a big circle, but now they're coming home,' said Ervin Carlson, a Blackfeet member and president of the Intertribal Buffalo Council.

The relocation comes as the restoration of genetically-pure bison to the West's grasslands and forests have gained traction. The efforts include the relocation of some genetically-pure bison from Yellowstone National Park to two Indian reservations in eastern and central Montana.

Undated photo provided by Montana Historical Society Photograph Archives shows a bison being unloaded at a stockyard in Ravalli, Montana. The animal was part of the Pablo-Allard herd that survived overhunting of the species in the late 1800s and was later sold to the Canadian government

The tribes - the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Reservation and the Assiniboine and Gros Ventre Tribes of the Fort Belknap Reservations - are signatories to the 2014 treaty.

But ranchers and landowners near the reservations have strongly opposed the tribes' plans, driven by concerns over disease and the prospect of bison competing with cattle for grass.

Brucellosis, the disease found in Yellowstone's bison herds, is absent from Canada's Elk Island, according to the park's superintendent, Stephen Flemming.

'The difficulty (with Yellowstone bison) is the stigma attached to them. In this case, the animals (coming from Canada) have never been exposed to brucellosis,' said Keith Aune with the Wildlife Conservation Society, which has been working with the Blackfeet on their bison program.

Over the past five years, Flemming said, about 180 Elk Island bison were relocated to form a private herd maintained by the American Prairie Reserve, which controls a large area between the Fort Peck and Fort Belknap reservations.

A bison and its calf roam in a section of the Elk Island National Park, Canada but will be returned to Montana next month after a US-Canada treaty

Those animals, too, have met some resistance from ranchers, but the absence of brucellosis has largely neutralized that issue as a point of contention.

The Blackfeet will loan 20 of the Elk Island bison to the Oakland Zoo in California for a special exhibit slated to open this fall, according to tribal officials and the zoo's president, Joel Parrott.

Offspring from the animals would be returned to Montana, and there are plans to promote eco-tours to the Blackfeet Reservation among zoo patrons.
as it was a way for slaves to conceal religion from their masters

Many Voodoo holy days coincide with Catholic ones

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Hundreds of Haitian Voodoo followers gathered for the annual religious ceremony in Souvenance a suburb of Gonaives, north of Port-au-Prince, on Easter Sunday.

Believers had made the annual pilgrimage to their holy temple, Souvenance Mystique, where they expressed their devotion to the spirits - loas - by taking part in a number of rituals.

Each year, followers dress in all-white, sacrifice animals, bathe in a sacred pool and dance themselves into a trance as they celebrate one of the holiest days in the Voodoo calendar.

Celebration: Haitian voodoo followers bathe in a sacred pool during the annual voodoo festival held during Easter weekend in Souvenance

Gathering: Each year, hundreds of Voodoo followers travel to the small suburb of Souvenance, Gonaives, 106miles north of Port-au-Prince

Haitian voodoo followers with blood covered clothes from an animal sacrifice dance while taking part in the annual voodoo ceremony

Men and women could be seen dancing outside the temple, having stained their white clothes with the blood from goats that had been sacrificed.

Some held wooden or real machetes, while others danced until they entered a trance state, and a number of worshippers took the opportunity to swim in a nearby pool which is believed to be sacred.

Voodoo was brought to Haiti by slaves from West Africa, but did not become a recognised religion by the Caribbean country until the 1960s.

Many Voodoo rituals and holy celebrations coincide with events in the Catholic Christian faith as this was the religion of the French Haitian slavemasters.

Slaves were forbidden from practising their Voodoo faith, so by celebrating the same days as their Catholic masters, they were able to conceal their religion.

Following tradition: Some worshippers held wooden or real machetes, while others danced until they entered a trance state

Haitian woman wearing clothes covered with blood from the sacrifices of goats and cows takes part in the annual ceremony

Believers had made the annual pilgrimage to Souvenance, where they expressed their devotion to the spirits by taking part in the rituals
A mother caught up in the Brussels terror attacks has penned an inspirational letter to her unborn child - telling the baby it had given her 'faith and reason to live'.

Sneha Mehta and her husband Sameep had just landed in the Belgian capital after a trip to Dubai when massive explosions caused by ISIS suicide bombers rocked the terminal building.

Sections of the ceiling were falling down on them as they sprinted towards the car park area and on to the road where they were able to flag down a taxi and escape to a hospital.

The inspirational letter which the mother has written for her unborn 16-week-old baby

Evacuation: Those on the tube network were evacuated from smoke-filled tunnels and walked along the tracks to the nearest station

A person is carried to safety as troops helped the injured and secured the area after the explosions in the terminal building

For a split second Sneha, 28, feared she, her husband and their 16-week-old unborn child would die in the bombings, which along with an attack on a Metro station claimed the lives of 31 people.

But as she ran for safety through the smoke, she realised 'for sure' that she would survive - and did not fear death, she told CNN in a telephone interview.

To her relief, an ultrasound showed the at Sint-Augustinus hospital showed that the baby appeared to be healthy and safe in the womb - and even appeared to be sucking its thumb.

She has now penned a letter for her baby which she hopes the child will open at the age of 16.

She wrote: 'No matter where humanity is today, I just want to tell you that life is a wonderful thing, and the world is really full of remarkable people.

'You didn't just give mum and dad faith and reason to live, you gave the awareness and presence of mind like never before.

'I felt more alive than I ever have, and I knew I had to protect you, so I was calm, composed and fully aware that we will survive.

'When we reached Sint-Augustinus emergency, and we saw you oblivious and sucking at your thumb at the ultrasound, and doing your general acrobatics, all the mistrust, hate and angst for the terrorist attack vaporized.

'I do hope with all my heart that you are born into a better world, and if not, then you do absolute best to make it that.

Sneha Mehta and her husband Sameep had just landed in the Belgian capital after a trip to Dubai when massive explosions caused by ISIS suicide bombers rocked the terminal building

For a split second Sneha, 28, feared she, her husband and their 16-week-old unborn child would die in the bombings, which along with an attack on a Metro station claimed the lives of 31 people

Airport worker Geoffroy Lemaitre, who was injured in the bombing, talks to colleagues prior to the start of a service for the victims of the Brussels attacks held on Monday

A Brussels airport worker, front left, and a member of the police carry candles as they take part in a service for the victims of the Brussels bomb attacks at the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

SNEHA MEHTA'S INSPIRATIONAL MESSAGE TO HER UNBORN BABY Hi sweetheart. I don't know if we already acknowledged this with you in person, but when you were 16 weeks old, mum and dad were at an explosion at Brussels Airport. And no matter where humanity is today, I just want to tell you that life is a wonderful thing, and the world is really full of remarkable people. You didn't just give mum and dad faith and reason to live, you gave us the awareness and presence of mind like never before. I felt more alive than I ever have, and I knew I had to protect you, so I was calm, composed and fully aware that we will survive. When we reached Sint-Augustinas (hospital) emergency, and we saw you oblivious and sucking at your thumb at the ultrasound, and doing your general acrobatics, all the mistrust, hate and angst for the terrorist attack vaporised. I do hope with all my heart that you are born into a better world, and if not, then you do absolute best to make it that. You are absolutely precious to us, and have already been a hero today. I guess much of the world,and has sent so much love your way. May you always be brave and healthy. We love you beyond words. Mum and Dad. Advertisement

'You are absolutely precious to us, and have already been a hero today. I guess the world has sent so much love and hope your way, you owe your life to reciprocating that goodness.'

Speaking to CNN, Sneha described the horrific scenes as they tried to escape the building.

She said: 'I absolutely didn't know which direction to run in.
The family of an alleged intruder killed in a citizens arrest claims he was at the home to attend a party.

Ben Batterham, 33, allegedly found Richard James Slater, 34, rummaging through his young daughters room after Mr Slater allegedly broke into his home in Hamilton, in central Newcastle, at about 3.30am on Saturday.

A fight broke out and Mr Slater later died to his injuries including a broken neck after his life support was turned off.

Mr Batterhams charge of grievous bodily harm was upgraded to murder following his death. He is expected to defend the charge on the basis that Mr Slater had allegedly broken in.

However, family of the 34-year-old father have since claimed Mr Slater was not an intruder and was at the home to attend a party, Nine News reported.

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Richard James Slater, known as Ricky, died in hospital after he was found by police with a suspected broken neck following an alleged break and enter

Ben Batterham, 33, allegedly found Richard James Slater, 34, looking through his young daughter's room after in Hamilton on Saturday at around 3.30am

He has previously been charged with a string of break and enter offences dating back to 2012.

The family have said he was in the home to attend a party and is unable to defend the accusation he was an intruder following his death, Nine News reported.

He didnt deserve what happened to him, Mr Slaters sister, Tiara Kelly, said.

Were fighting for justice and were gonna get it cause I wanna know the truth.

Mother Beryl Dickson said she was having to bury her eldest child for a reason I dont know.

She said she couldnt feel anything through the shock and that hed been murdered in cold blood.

The 34-year-old was rushed to John Hunter Hospital where he remained in critical condition until his family decided to turn off his life support at 11.30am on Sunday

'I want my baby's killer found and brought to justice,' Ms Dickson told Seven News.

She said her three grandchildren have been robbed of a father, claiming that he had been on the straight and narrow since leaving prison.

He was reportedly convicted over the ram raid of an adult store in Sandgate where cash and synthetic drugs were taken, but was acquitted on appeal.

'They've lost their father, their beautiful father that they haven't seen for years because he was in jail, which has nothing to do with this case,' Ms Dickson told ABC News.

'Just to think those little kids are going to grow up without a dad now.'

Mr Slater's devastated family have demanded justice, claiming the 34-year-old father-of-three was 'murdered in cold blood' (pictured mother Beryl Slater right)

Ms Dickson said she tried to get her son to open his eyes as he lay in hospital but doctors told her Mr Slater's brain had been starved of oxygen.

'I was telling him to get up or open his eyes, and he wouldn't; I just wanted him to open his eyes and talk to me.'

His grandmother Dorothy collapsed as the family spoke to reporters and was treated by paramedics outside Newcastle Local Court.

Mr Batterham allegedly put Mr Slater in a choke-hold to detain him until police arrived, Seven News reported, and was assisted by an unnamed friend.

Police found Mr Slater, who was reportedly charged with a string of break and enter offences in 2012, unconscious in Mr Batterham's home with a suspected broken neck

Known to family as Ricky, Mr Slater was rushed to John Hunter Hospital where he remained in critical condition until his family decided to turn off his life support at 11.30am on Sunday, according to NSW Police.

Mr Batterham was reportedly treated for injuries to his face at a nearby hospital and charged with recklessly inflicting grievous bodily harm.

The charges were upgraded to murder when Mr Slater's life support system was turned off, with the 33-year-old father handing himself into police on Sunday afternoon.

The father was denied bail by police on Monday and is expected to face a Magistrate on April 29.

The 32-year-old man who assisted Mr Batterham has spoken to police, but was not charged.

Mr Slater had been released from jail in December after serving 20 months for aggravated break and enter and fraud offences, according to Sydney Morning Herald.

Mr Batterham handed himself into police on Sunday following Mr Slater's death
Belgian police have released a journalist they suspected of being the 'man in white' seen at Brussels Airport moments before the deadly suicide bomb attacks.

Faycal Cheffou had been charged over the weekend with 'involvement in a terrorist group, terrorist killings and attempted terrorist killings' following the terrorist atrocity.

But prosecutors said today that they had a lack of evidence to justify holding him.

The announcement came hours after fresh CCTV footage emerged showing a man wearing a white jacket and hat wheeling a trolley through Brussels Airport alongside ISIS bombers Ibrahim El-Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.

CCTV footage has emerged showing the 'man in white' walking casually through Brussels Airport

Moments after the footage was taken, two massive blasts rocked the terminal building, killing 15 people

In the security camera video, El-Bakraoui and Laachraoui are blurred out. But it does show their suspected accomplice strolling casually through the terminal building

In the security camera video, El-Bakraoui and Laachraoui are blurred out. But it does show their suspected accomplice strolling casually through the terminal building.

A still picture of the three men had previously been revealed by police, but the new video footage emerged today as the death toll from the attacks rose to 35.

'It's a new video which had not previously been released," a spokesman for the federal prosecutor's office said.

They made a fresh appeal for help in tracking down the third airport attacker, said to be carrying the biggest bomb but who fled when it failed to explode.

Freelance journalist Mr Cheffou was arrested on Thursday and faced preliminary charges of involvement in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder before he was freed. Belgian authorities have already been criticised for failings over last weeks attacks and Novembers Paris atrocity.

The death toll from the Brussels bombings rose to 35 yesterday after four of the victims being treated in hospital died. It does not include the three suicide bombers. Another 96 remain in hospital.

In the 32-second airport clip, the wanted man  his identity hidden underneath a black hat and glasses  can be seen walking calmly through the airport.

Wearing a smart white shirt and light jacket, he is pushing a large black suitcase  believed to be his bomb  on a trolley.

Next to him are two men in black, identified as bombers Ibrahim El-Bakraoui, 29, and Najim Laachraoui, 24.

Just over an hour later, El-Bakraouis brother Khalid blew himself up at a metro station.

The video emerged as Belgium released freelance journalist Faycal Cheffou (pictured) who they had previously suspected was the man dressed in a white jacket and hat. Prosecutors say they had a lack of evidence

There had been speculation that the third man on the CCTV was Mr Cheffou. He was arrested on Thursday in a car close to his home and was reportedly picked out of a line-up by the taxi driver who drove the terrorists to the airport. Police said they would use DNA to try to establish his role. But they found no explosives or weapons at his home.

Mr Cheffou was described as an activist known for trying to convert asylum seekers and the homeless to radical Islam.

Brussels mayor Yvan Mayeur said he warned police about him, and Mr Cheffous sister said she had told officers two years ago about her brothers desire to travel to Syria.

But friends and former colleagues had described him as a straight up kind of guy who loved radio work.

The Belgian federal prosecutors office said yesterday: The indications that led to the arrest of Faycal C were not substantiated. As a result, the subject has been released.

There was no sign of Mr Cheffou at his flat, close to the European Commission, last night.

His release is a blow to the Belgian authorities. They have already been criticised after it emerged Ibrahim El-Bakraoui was deported from Turkey last July over fears he was travelling to Syria to join IS  but Belgian authorities took no action.

It comes as police in Belgium charged three people with involvement in a terrorist group after they were arrested in an operation at the weekend.

The 'man in white' was seen wheeling trolleys through the terminal alongside ISIS bombers Ibrahim El-Bakraoui (left) and Najim Laachraoui (right)

A police notice issued with the video - still images from which have previously been released (pictured above) - said that officers 'want to identify this man'

Prosecutors said today that they had laid out charges against three more suspects detained in a series of raids over the weekend.

'They were charged with participation in the activities of a terrorist group,; the prosecutor said in a statement, adding that a fourth person detained on Sunday had been released.

They were among four people detained during Sunday searches in Brussels and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel.

Belgian prosecutors did not release details on the alleged terrorist actions or whether they were linked to the March 22 suicide bombings.

Those charged by the investigating magistrate were identified only as Yassine A., Mohamed B. and Aboubaker O.

Meanwhile, Dutch police yesterday arrested a 32-year-old French national in the port city of Rotterdam on suspicion of planning a terror attack, prosecutors said, in a raid carried out at the request of French authorities.

Four more victims have died in hospital nearly a week after ISIS suicide bombers launched twin attacks in the Belgian capital, the country's health minister revealed

The death toll from the suicide bombings at Brussels Airport and a rush-hour metro has risen to 35, Belgian authorities have revealed

Officers found ammunition in the home of the man, thought to be called Anis B., whp was detained on Sunday suspected of receiving orders from the ISIS to attack targets in France along with Reda Kriket, who was detained near Paris last week.

'During the search, phones, SIM cards, hard drives, cash, ammunition and drugs were seized,' a spokesman for the Dutch prosecutor, Wim de Bruin, said.

No explosives were found during the raid in which a total of four men, including two suspects of Algerian background, were arrested, he added.

Anis. B is expected to be handed over to France after an extradition hearing at an Amsterdam court, de Bruin said, although no date has yet been set.

The raids were carried out at two homes in the west of the city, and several nearby houses were evacuated 'for the safety of the residents'.

Police in Belgium charged three people with involvement in a terrorist group after they were arrested in an operation at the weekend

Prosecutors said today that they had laid out charges against three more suspects detained in a series of raids over the weekend

The Netherlands was already on heightened alert after Tuesday's airport and metro attacks in Brussels, with security stepped up at airports and train stations and border controls tightened.

French police said earlier they had foiled an attack by 34-year-old Kriket - a man previously convicted in Belgium in a terror case - after arresting him and discovering explosives and a machine gun at his home near Paris.

The French police source said the man arrested in the Netherlands was wanted by French authorities in December over criminal association with a terrorist organisation.

Yesterday, Belgian police revealed they are questioning four new terror suspects after a series of dawn raids across the country.

A total of nine people were detained after operations in Brussels and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel. Five were released after questioning and four remain in custody.

The raids were linked to a 'federal case regarding terrorism', according to the federal prosecutor, but it was not clear whether they were tied to the attacks last week. Earlier another suspect was charged over his involvement with a terrorist group.

The man, identified as Abderamane A., was shot in the leg by police on Friday in the city's Schaerbeek district because he was carrying a rucksack police believed contained a bomb.

Abderamane A., was shot in the leg by police on Friday in the city's Schaerbeek district because he was carrying a rucksack police believed contained a bomb

He was detained in connection to a related raid in France on Thursday that the government said foiled a 'major terrorist attack'. He has been charged with 'involvement in a terrorist group', Belgian prosecutors said today.

Abderamane A. was reportedly convicted in 2003 as an accomplice in the assassination of the Afghan political and military leader, Ahmad Shah Massoud, two years earlier.

It came as dramatic pictures emerged of the moment armed Italian police arrested an Algerian man wanted by Belgium over fake ID documents used by the Paris and Brussels terrorists.

Djamal Eddine Ouali, 40, was seen on his knees and being held at gunpoint after being detained under a European arrest warrant in the southern Italian region of Salerno.
Police are growing increasingly concerned for a teenage girl who has been missing for over a week.

Emily Besant, 15, disappeared at around 2.40pm on March 19 after she boarded a train to London - and has not contacted family or friends since.

Police have released a CCTV image of the teen before she caught the train and believe she may be in the south London area.

Emily Besant, 15, pictured at East Worthing Railway Station when she was last seen on March 19

Emily is believed to have boarded a train to London at the station, pictured, in West Sussex

Emily is white, 5ft, of small build with very long, straight, dyed dark purple hair and was last seen at East Worthing train station, West Sussex.

The teenager, who has her lip, tongue and belly button pierced, was wearing a black and grey Adidas top with dark blue jeans and carrying a red and orange bag when she caught the train.

Sussex Police say she has links to the West Sussex towns of Arundel and Crawley as well as Brighton, East Sussex.
A California man is suspected of swinging an animal around by its ears and then setting it on fire, police have said.

Juan Lemus, 29, was arrested on suspicion of arson, animal cruelty and drug paraphernalia possession on Saturday.

Santa Paula police were called by witnesses who said they saw a man swinging an animal around at 7:52am on Saturday, before fleeing on a bike.

Juan Lemus, 29, was arrested on Saturday after witnesses reported a man swinging a rabbit around before setting it on fire. He said the rabbit was dead when he found it and he set paper on fire

Police were called to the 200 block of March Street in Santa Paula, in Ventura County but found a suspect matching the description a few blocks away

When officers arrived at the scene on March Street, which was near a nursing home, they found the little creature lying dead on the dusty floor next to a pile of burned paper.

Police found a dead rabbit at the scene which was next to a pile of burnt paper. Vets determined it had died due to blunt trauma

They also located Lemus, who matched the suspect description and also appeared to be under the influence of drugs, a few blocks away.

He told officers that the rabbit was dead when he found it and he had set the paper on fire, not the bunny.

Vets at Santa Paula Animal Rescue Centre x-rayed the rabbit and determined that its cause of death was not by burning.

Instead, 'it was determined the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head' said the police statement released on Sunday.

After questioning Lemus, police realised that he was under the influence of illegal substances and found a methamphetamine pipe in his possession.

He was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and being under the influence of drugs, police said.

Lemus was taken to Ventura County Main Jail and should appear in court at some point in the coming week, said officers.
David Cameron's plans to turn all state schools into academies has met fierce opposition from councils

Tory councillors have called on David Cameron to scrap plans to turn every state school in England into academies as a poll revealed today that more than nine in ten school leaders are opposed to the move.

Councillors from all political parties sent a letter to ministers urging them to rethink the proposals, which will require all schools to become academies or be in the process of converting by 2020  taking them out of local authority control.

They have expressed enormous concern at the plans, which they say are opposed by parents and teachers and would be much more expensive than the current 140million the Government has put aside for the conversions.

Councillors also said there is no evidence to suggest academies perform better than council-run schools.

Their warning comes as a poll published today found 93 per cent of head teachers, their deputies and assistants polled by the National Union of Teachers (NUT) agreed it was inappropriate for the Government to enforce the academisation plans.

Under the plans, 17,000 primary schools will convert to academies over the next six years, stripping them from local authority control.

Three-quarters said cuts to local children and family service funding were increasing pressure on teachers, while seven in 10 said their school's funding situation next year will negatively affect educational standards.

Some reckon cuts in Government funding will reduce their school's budget by 10 per cent in real terms.

The survey showed 98 per cent of school leaders are concerned about workload and the work-life balance.

The letter from councillors and the NUT poll deal a major blow to Education Secretary Nicky Morgan, who was heckled as she addressed the NASUWT teacher conference on Friday.

Among the signatories of the letter sent to the Government included David Hodge, leader of the Conservative group in the local Government Association, as well as his Labour and Lib Dem counterparts.

The letter stated: The wholesale removal of democratically elected councils from all aspects of local education, to be replaced by unelected and remote civil servants, has rightly raised serious questions around local needs and accountability, while the proposed removal of parent governors will further weaken vital local voices in our schools.

Christine Blower, NUT general secretary, said: These findings are bleak and reveal bitter distrust from school leavers of the direction of travel for education policy in England.

There are logical reasons why half of these school leaders say that they cannot go on and they are thinking of leaving.

The Government has the wrong priorities. The strategy of cuts, teacher shortages and far-reaching, chaotic curriculum and assessment changes simply isn't working.

The poll showing strong opposition to the Governments academisation plan comes after Mr Cameron came under fire from his own Conservative-run Oxfordshire council yet again as a host of local Tories criticised the Government's plan to turn every state school in England into an academy.

Melinda Tilley, the cabinet member for education at Oxfordshire County Council - which includes the Prime Minister's Witney seat - warned small village schools could be at risk under the plans if academy chains decided they were no longer viable.

She signed a joint letter opposing the plan with the heads of two unions.

Ms Tilley is the latest Oxfordshire councillor to inflict humiliating criticism on the Prime Minister.

He has been trapped in a row with Oxfordshire County Council about cuts to frontline services, which will impact constituents in his Witney seat.

Mr Cameron was accused of 'hypocrisy' after he wrote to the local authority in his capacity as an MP expressing 'disappointment' at planned cuts to museums, libraries and day centres for the elderly.

But the council leader hit back, saying the curbs were the result of big reductions in funding from central Government and a result of Mr Cameron's austerity agenda.

On Friday, Ms Tilley expressed opposition to convert state schools into academies, denouncing the 'diktats from above' and demanded the policy be reversed.

She is just one of several Tory councillors in charge of education to come out in opposition to the academy plans

She told the BBC: 'It means a lot of little primary schools will be forced to go into multi-academy trusts and I just feel it's the wrong time, in the wrong place, for little primary schools to be forced into doing this.

'I'm afraid there could be a few little village schools that get lost in all of this.'

Asked if she was 'disappointed' by the Government, she said that was 'probably putting it very mildly'.

'I'm fed up with diktats from above saying you will do this and you won't do that. This is not why I became a Conservative.'

Her concerns were echoed by other senior Conservatives in local government who face losing control of schools in their local areas.

Christine Blower, NUT general secretary, pictured, said a poll which showed 93 per cent of heads and deputy heads opposed the academy plans revealed 'deep distrust' of the Government's education policy

Roger Gough, Conservative councillor in charge of education in Kent, said the policy would cost his local authority several million pounds.

'I don't think there is demonstrable evidence that there is a systemic improvement in performance and certainly not anything that would justify upheaval on this scale,' he told the BBC.

Peter Edgar from Hampshire County Council said: 'To force all schools would be ridiculously expensive and in my view the wrong thing to do and also could cause in the interim a drop in standards in all our schools.'

Arthur Barker, executive member for schools on North Yorkshire county council told the Guardian: 'I've no objection to academies. But you need time to do it. You need bodies on the ground. You need dedicated officers to do it.

'One of my concerns is the availability of capacity. It's a big ask. It's a lot of schools nationally.'

Ivan Ould, a former head teacher and Tory cabinet member for children and families on Leicestershire county council, told the newspaper: 'The Government seems to be determined to take responsibility for anything to do with education away from local authorities.

'If you've got effective local authorities you should take the best practice and expand it across the county. I do not believe a system driven by dogma will meet the needs of children.'

Responding todays NUT poll, a Department for Education spokesman said: The fact that almost 70 per cent of all open academies have voluntarily become one suggests the concerns raised by those polled by the NUT are not shared more widely across the country.

On funding, we are protecting the schools budget in real terms and making funding fairer by introducing a new national funding formula so that areas with highest need attract the most funding.

We also know unnecessary workload is one of the biggest frustrations for teachers and have done more than ever to tackle this by launching the reports yesterday of the three review groups to address the key concerns raised through the Workload Challenge.
The Indian Catholic priest kidnapped by ISIS-linked terrorists in Yemen earlier this month was crucified on Good Friday, it has been claimed.

Father Thomas Uzhunnalil, 56, was taken by Islamist gunmen, reportedly linked to ISIS, who attacked an old people's home in Aden, southern Yemen, killing at least 15 people, on March 4.

The terrorists reportedly carried out the heinous murder on Good Friday, after threatening to do so earlier in the week, according to the Archbishop of Vienna

Indian Catholic priest Father Tom Uzhunnalil was kidnapped by ISIS gunmen in Yemen three weeks ago and was reportedly crucified on Good Friday

It was reported last week that several religious groups had received threats that Father Thomas would be crucified on Good Friday, but this was denied by his church in hometown of Bangalore.

However, the Archbishop of Vienna, Christoph Cardinal Schonborn, told a congregation gathered in St. Stephen's Cathedral in the Austrian capital that the priest had been crucified.

It is not known how the Archbishop became aware of Father Thomas' alleged fate, but his confirmation of the crucifixion during Easter Vigil Mass was reported in Austrian media.

A spokesperson for the cardinal today admitted that while he did say that the priest has been crucified, he has no confirmation of Father Thomas' fate.

'The cardinal based his statements on news published on Arabic language web sites. The validity of this information has, however, not been confirmed,' said Arhdiocese Vienna's head of media relations, Michael Pruller.

Yemeni pro-government fighters gather outside an elderly care home in the southern city of Aden after it was attacked by ISIS-linked gunmen on March 4

'The cardinal doesn't himself have any sources that have confirmed the death of Father Tom.

'Thus, for the time being, there's still basis for hope that Father Tom is alive,' said Mr Pruller.

Yemeni authorities have blamed ISIS for the March 4 attack on the refuge for the elderly operated by Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity in main southern city Aden.

Four gunmen posing as relatives of one of the guests at the home burst inside, killing four Indian nuns, two Yemeni female staff members, eight elderly residents and a guard.

'According to our information, the extremists who attacked the elderly care home in Aden have kidnapped priest Tom Uzhunnalil, a 56-year-old Indian, who was taken to an unknown location,' a Yemeni security official said.

'We are aware that no group has yet claimed the criminal attack... but information points to the involvement of Daesh,' said the source, who asked to remain anonymous, using an Arabic acronym for IS.

However, members of Father Tom's order have denied that he is due to be crucified, saying they have no information on his health or whereabouts.

We have absolutely no information on Fr Tom,' Father Mathew Valarkot, spokesman for the Salesians' Bangalore province, told UCANews.

South African nuns called the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen were one of several groups who claimed they had been told Father Tom would be crucified tomorrow

'But even today we do not know who has taken him and what their motives are because no one has claimed responsibility.'

The Vatican's Secretary of State Pietro Parolin said earlier this month that Pope Francis 'was shocked and profoundly saddened' to learn of 'this act of senseless and diabolical violence.'

Aden had been racked by lawlessness since Hadi supporters, backed by Gulf Arab military forces, drove fighters from Yemen's Iran-allied Houthi group from the city in July last year.

The Yemeni government has repeatedly vowed to restore security to the city but so far had had little success.

Al-Qaeda and IS have stepped up attacks in Aden, targeting mainly loyalists and members of a Saudi-led coalition battling Huthi rebels and their allies since March last year.

Al-Qaeda distanced itself from the mass shooting Friday, saying it was not responsible.
He was also sacked as magistrate after 15 years due to 'prejudicial views'

Richard Page, 69 (pictured), has been suspended from his role in the NHS after speaking out against gay adoption

A former magistrate has been suspended from his role in the NHS after speaking out against gay adoption.

Richard Page will not be able to return to his role on the board of Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership (KMPT) until an investigation has taken place.

The 69-year-old, who claimed that adopted children were better off with a man and a woman as parents than with a gay couple, was struck off by the Lord Chancellor, Michael Gove, earlier this month.

The father-of-three spoke about the suitability of same-sex parents during a family court case in 2014 and has reiterated his belief that there was not enough research on the impact having gay parents has on children.

Mr Page, who has worked in the field of mental health for 20 years and as a magistrate for 15, was removed from the magistracy at Maidstone Magistrates' Court after the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) found his views 'prejudicial.'

And now he has been suspended by the NHS with immediate effect after Andrew Ling, chairman of KMPT, wrote to the NHS Trust Development Authority.

In the letter Mr Ling claims Mr Page's comments, and continuance as a KMPT member would have a major impact on staff, patients and 'the perception of living the Trust values'.

Mr Ling added: 'The recent publicity you have courted is likely to further undermine the confidence staff, particularly Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered (LGBT) staff, have in the leadership of the Trust.

'Links between the stigma often associated with being LGBT and poor mental health are well established.

'It is vital that patients and local population are confident that KMPT will challenge stigma or discrimination and treat everyone fairly and impartially'.

The father-of-three will not be able to return to his role on the board of Kent and Medway NHS and Social Care Partnership (pictured) until an investigation has taken place

Mr Page, a devout Christian, said: 'Last week, the Prime Minister distributed an Easter video in which he commended Christians, and the Church for their vital role in society, stating that we are a Christian country and should be proud of it.

'However, his Government has brought in laws which effectively silence Christians and remove them from the public square.

'It would appear no longer possible to be a Christian, to state what the Bible actually says and what the Church has believed for 2,000 years, and maintain a role in public life in today's Britain.

'My seat on the NHS Trust came as a result of my long service in mental health and total commitment to the NHS - none of that has changed.

He said: 'It would appear no longer possible to be a Christian, to state what the Bible actually says and what the Church has believed for 2,000 years, and maintain a role in public life in today's Britain'

'The Trust says in its letter that it is committed to 'challenge discrimination and treat everyone fairly and impartially' - all evidence to the contrary.

'What about treating my views, held by billions of Christians around the world, equally and fairly?

'What the Prime Minister, Government and NHS Trust fail to recognise is that the reason why so many Christians make such a huge contribution to society - which they are all keen to acknowledge - is that we are all motivated to do so by our Christian faith and our love for Jesus Christ whose death and resurrection we remember this weekend.

'If the current trend continues, and Christians are systematically removed from public life, one by one, profession by profession, then who will pick up the pieces?

'Already churches have to step in with Food Banks and Credit Union, but what if they go? And what if Christians are forced to withdraw from the NHS, the law and education, where will this country be?'

Andrea Minichiello Williams, barrister and founder of the Christian Legal Centre, added: 'It is time for MPs to take serious note and look afresh at the Equality legislation which was badly drafted and consistently gives more rights to some groups over those of the Christian faith.

'At a time when the nation comes to celebrate Easter, the principal Festival in the Christian Calendar, once again we find Britain's political leaders wiping their hands clean of Christians who are prepared to stand up for their faith.

'They take no responsibility for what is going on, blaming the Equality Act, citing 'freedoms' and talking of 'diversity' but it's all hot air.'
Family of Yevgniy Vakhtin suing the hospital for 'failing to apologise'

Doctor Ilya Zelendinov, 32, has now been jailed for nine years

The family of Russian man killed by a single punch from an emergency room doctor is suing hospital chiefs for 750,000 compensation.

Shocking security video footage of the attack showed victim Yevgniy Vakhtin collapse after just one blow to the head at the clinic in Belgorod, south Russia.

Dr Ilya Zelendinov, 32, attacked him in the hospital ER in December 2015 after an intoxicated Mr Vakhtin reportedly kicked a nurse while being treated.

Shocking security video footage of the attack showed victim Yevgniy Vakhtin collapse after just one blow to the head by Dr Ilya Zelendinov at the clinic in Belgorod, south Russia

Mr Vakhtin had been admitted to the hospital with a gastric haemorrhage on December 29, 2015, reportedly notably intoxicated

Investigators said that Dr Zelendinov (pictured) hit Mr Vakhtin after he 'kicked a nurse during a procedure'

Dr Zelendinov has now been sentenced to nine years in jail by a court in Russia's south-west Belgorod Oblast region.

Mr Vakhtin had been admitted to the hospital with a gastric haemorrhage on December 29, 2015, reportedly notably intoxicated.

In the video, the doctor in medical clothing drags the barechested male patient from the examination table, asking him 'why did you touch the nurse?' and pushes him out of the doorway.

When Mr Vakhtin returns, the doctor deals him a single blow to the face and a crash can be heard as the middle-aged man falls backwards onto the floor.

Meanwhile Dr Zelendinov continues to scuffle with another man accompanying Mr Vakhtin, and it is only minutes later that the medics notice the patient lying motionless and attempt - unsuccessfully - to revive him.

Meanwhile the doctor continues to scuffle with another man accompanying the patient

it is only minutes later that the medics notice the patient lying motionless and attempt unsuccessfully to revive him

Dr Zelendinov has now been sentenced to nine years in jail by a court in Russia's south-west Belgorod Oblast

Belgorod's Investigative Committee said in a statement that Dr Zelendinov hit Mr Vakhtin after he 'kicked a nurse during a procedure'.

'The cause of death of the victim was trauma to the skull and brain from hitting the back of the head on the hard surface of the floor.'

Mr Vakhtin's family say they decided to sue because the hospital had failed to apologise, with his partner Inna Sergeeva demanding 300,000 and his daughter Tatiana Gridneva seeking a further 450,000.

The family's lawyer Aleksandr Shpay said: 'The hospital administration has been outrageously rude.'

'Not one members of the administration or management has even apologised to the family of the deceased.'

A friend of Mr Vakhtin, named in Russian media as Alexander Avilov, is also suing the hospital for the more modest 550, citing 'loss of his friendship'.

Dr Zelendinov has been found guilty of 'intentional infliction of grievous bodily harm resulting in death' and sentenced to a hefty sentence of nine years and two months in a high-security prison.

During the court case, the doctor said: 'Your Honour, I am asking you to judge me in accordance with the law.'
Hillary Clinton's email scandal will likely be looming over the Democratic presidential candidate throughout the rest of the primary season as federal prosecutors have just begun contacting the lawyers of her top aides in order to set up formal interviews.

The Los Angeles Times, which reported the pending interviews, didn't name which aides would be called in for questioning by FBI agents and prosecutors, but contacted Philippe Reines, Huma Abedin, Jake Sullivan and Cheryl Mills, who all worked closely with Clinton during her time as secretary of the state.

None of the lawyers for the foursome would speak on the record about the investigation.

Prosecutors are also expected to bring Clinton in for an interview, but the newspaper had no information about timing.

Another aide, IT staffer Bryan Pagliano, was granted immunity by federal prosecutors and provided security logs for Clinton's server that revealed no evidence of foreign hacking, the paper reported.

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The email scandal won't go away just yet, as federal prosecutors have contacted the lawyers of some of Hillary Clinton's top aides in order to set up interviews

Huma Abedin, Hillary Clinton's deputy chief of staff at the State Department, could soon be interviewed by federal prosecutors and FBI agents as they investigate Clinton's email situation to see if the former secretary of state mishandled classified information

Who could be questioned? Philippe Reines (left), Jake Sullivan (center ) and Cheryl Hines (right) all had top positions in Hillary Clinton's State Department

'The interviews are critical to understand the volume of information they have accumulated,' James McJunkin, the former head of the FBI's Washington field office, told the Los Angeles times.

'They are likely nearing the end of the investigation and the agents need to interview these people to put the information in context,' he continued.

'They will then spend time aligning these statements with other information, emails, classified documents, etc., to determine whether there is a prosecutable case.'

The Washington Post yesterday published its own investigation into how the email scandal came to be, noting how from day one Clinton wanted to be able to use her Blackberry to send and receive email as secretary of state.

Instead she was forced to lock up her Blackberry, which State Department security experts warned could be hacked and turned into a spying device, before heading into her 'Mahogany Row' office.

'From the earliest days, Clinton aides and senior officials focused intently on accommodating the secretary's desire to use her private email account, documents and interviews show,' the Washington Post wrote.

'Throughout they paid insufficient attention to laws and regulations governing the handling of classified material and the preservation of government records, interviews and documents show.

'They also neglected repeated warnings about the security of the Blackberry while Clinton and her closest aides took obvious security risks in using the basement server,' the Post's investigation continued.

The Post's piece also revealed that 147 agents have been deployed to assist with the investigation, as FBI Director James Comey wants it resolved sooner than later as to not interfere with the presidential election.

Hillary Clinton has pushed back at allegations that she was sending classified material over her private server saying none of the emails she handled were marked classified at the time

As part of the ongoing FBI and Justice Department investigation, Hillary Clinton will likely be interviewed, but the Los Angeles Time had no information about timing

The Justice Department and the FBI opened up their investigation in July upon receiving a security referral from the inspector general of the intelligence community, who concluded at the time that Clinton had sent emails deemed 'secret,' the highest level of classification, through her personal email system.

The inspector general's office was leafing through the 30,500 emails Clinton had turned over from her homebrew server that she said were work-related.

'None of the emails we reviewed has classification or dissemination markings, but some included [intelligence community]-derived classified information and should have been handled as classified appropriately marked, and transmitted via a secure network,' Inspector General I. Charles McCollough wrote Congress in a letter at the start of the investigation.

Previously, the inspector general and the State Department were shown to be in a dispute over whether these correspondences should be considered classified.

Since then the State Department has released the emails publicly, as part of Freedom of Information Act requests, and 22 emails were marked 'top secret,' while hundreds of others were marked 'secret' or 'confidential.'

None of the emails had markings indicating their classified nature at the time.

Clinton has used this as part of her public defense of the email scandal explaining that these emails were 'retroactively' classified.

She's complained of the government's overzealous nature in classifying the documents and called for the contents of them to come out publicly so that the stink of the scandal would subside.

Clinton had also deleted 31,830 emails from her server that were personal correspondence.

The Los Angeles Times found out that most of those emails have since been recovered since Clinton handed the physical server over to the FBI in August.

Legal experts suggested to the Times that it would be difficult to prosecute Clinton over her handling of classified information as prosecutors would have to prove she knew the information was classified at the time she was sending it.

While Democratic rival Sanders has shied away from criticizing Clinton for the email scandal  famously saying on the first Democratic debate stage that 'the American people are sick and tired of hearing about your damn emails'  Republicans have been chomping at the bit over it.

Throughout the campaign they've portrayed Clinton as worse than former CIA head David Petraeus, who pleaded guilty of a misdemeanor charge of mishandling classified material and thus was spared prison time.

'I mean look at Petraeus  good guy, made a mistake, and by the way, leave the guy alone,' said Republican frontrunner Donald Trump in January. 'Leave Petraeus alone. Right? Enough already. Enough. They've gone after him, they've destroyed him and yet Hillary's flying safe and she did 100 times worse than what he did,'

But there's a pivotal distinction between the Petraeus case and the ongoing one swirling around Clinton.

Petraeus knowingly provided classified material to his mistress and biographer Paula Broadwell, legal experts pointed out to the paper. Broadwell was a civilian.

Clinton's emails, even the ones that were later marked classified, were sent to aides who had been cleared to receive the contents.
Kelli Boyer, 44, of Pennsylvania (pictured) is charged with theft of services

A woman is accused of skipping out on a $600 fare after police say she took a taxi 135 miles from New York City to her Pennsylvania home.

Authorities said the cab arrived at Kelli Boyer's Denver, Pennsylvania, home around 1am on Sunday.

She exited the cab, opened her garage and went inside her home, according to police.

Boyer then allegedly told the driver she would be back in a few minutes to pay the fare.

However, when the 44-year-old woman did not return in about 15 minutes, the driver called police.

Police said officers made several attempts to contact the Lancaster County woman but she refused to answer her door or phone.

Responding officers also noted that the garage door was still open and that lights were on inside the house.

The cab driver was able to identify Boyer from a photo who has since been charged with theft of services, police said.

Online court records do not list a defense attorney who could comment on the charges.
A New Zealand restaurant has apologised for graffiti messages on their men's toilet doors and said they have been removed, after they came under fire on social media.

Owners of Miss Moonshine's slow barbecue restaurant in Auckland, Ryan and Annelise Clarke, issued a public apology after complaints from a customer flooded Twitter and were quickly shared, reported the NZ Herald.

Peter Goodman wrote he would not be visiting the restaurant again, as he didn't want to expose his five-year-old son to the 'sickening misogyny'.

Among others, the graffiti messages make reference to oral sex and women taking the contraceptive pill

A tweet from one of the customers, Peter Goodman, who said he will not be returning to the restaurant

The owners Ryan and Annelise Clarke issued a public apology after coming under fire for the toilet door messages on social media

He posted a number of photos showing the different messages on the doors.

Among others, the messages contain explicit references to oral sex.

The owners posted a statement on the restaurant's Twitter a few hours ago.

'Hey folks, sincerely sorry for any offence caused by the graffiti written on our bathroom doors', they wrote.

In their apology the restaurant owners said as a restaurant they only exist to make people happy

'Agree this was in poor taste, was never really intended to upset anyone,' they added.

'Please accept our public apology, we removed the graffiti as soon as we received a complaint and will make sure it doesn't happen again.'

The messages had been written on the doors since June, and the owners told the NZ Herald it was the first complaint they'd received.

Mr Clarke said it was more his responsibility than his wife's, as the messages were on the men's toilet doors.

The owners said the messages had been on the doors since last June and this was the first complaint they had received

The messages have now been removed off all the doors and the owners said they will make sure it doesn't happen again

An interior view, showing the kitchen area of Miss Moonshines in Ponsonby, Auckland

The restaurant serves slow cooked barbecue food, including beef short ribs, pulled pork and mac 'n' cheese balls
Footage has emerged showing the Abdeslam brothers drinking, smoking and flirting with girls in a nightclub - just months before they played a part in the deadly Paris terror attacks.

Brahim Abdeslam can be seen with a cigarette in his hand dancing with a blonde woman while his brother Salah dances beside him in the video, filmed in a Brussels club.

Under a year later, Brahim blew himself up outside a cafe in Paris as he and a team of ISIS terrorists slaughtered 130 people in the French capital.

Brahim Abdeslam can be seen with a cigarette in his hand dancing with a blonde woman (right) while his brother Salah (left) dances beside him in the video, filmed in a Brussels club

Brahim Abdeslam (pictured right) is the brother of fellow Paris suspect Salah () - who was captured earlier this month

Salah Abdeslam, thought to have been involved in the logistics of the attack, was captured earlier this month during a raid in Belgium's terror hotspot Molenbeek - just days before terrorists targeted Brussels Airport and a Metro station killing 35 more people.

Video shows the extremists eight months before the massacre in Paris, seemingly enjoying the Westernised lifestyle ISIS claims to despise.

They can be seen dancing to their favourite rapper Lacrim in a nightclub in Avenue Louise, Brussels.

The clip, obtained by CNN's Nina Dos Santos, was taken by friends of the brothers who say they were 'nice people' who 'lived life to the full'.

But after it was taken, the men became increasingly radicalised, giving up drinking and spending increasing amounts of time at home praying.

Brahim Abdeslam blew himself up at the Comptoir Voltaire brasserie (pictured) in the 11th arrondissement, severely injuring a waitress, during a series of coordinated terror attacks in and around Paris that left 130 people dead

Relatives and friends of one of Brahim Abdeslam carried his coffin as he was buried in Brussels. He was lowered into the ground at the interdenominational cemetery of Schaerbeek

The men who spoke to CNN gave the fake names Karim and Rachid and explained how they would spend time at the cafe Les Beguines, owned in 2011 by the Abdeslams.

There they watched the brothers' favourite team Real Madrid.

Karim is quoted as saying: 'I saw Salah joke, smoke, drink and play cards. If anything, he liked women. He was something of a ladies man and I heard he had a girlfriend at one point.'

But Rachid said of the nightclub footage: 'That was the last time I saw them drink. Brahim started to become more religious. He would attend Friday prayers at the mosque but otherwise pray at home.'

Brahim blew himself up at the Comptoir Voltaire brasserie in the 11th arrondissement, severely injuring a waitress, during a series of coordinated terror attacks in and around Paris last November

HOW SALAH ADBESLAM BECAME THE WORLD'S MOST WANTED MAN Salah Abdeslam became the world's most wanted man after the Paris attacks in November last year. The 26-year-old is a Belgian-born Morocco-Frenchman and grew up in the Belgian town of Molenbeek. He worked for two years as a railway mechanic and in the family business including at a bar set up by his brother Brahim. Abeslam was reportedly childhood friends with Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the man dubbed as the 'Belgian' mastermind of the Paris attacks. The pair spent time in jail for armed robbery and it is there that it is believed they became radicalised. When his brother Brahim tried to travel to Syria, he was stopped and Abdeslam was questioned by police. Salah Abdeslam (pictured in the white hooded top) was captured earlier this month after a four-month manhunt Belgian prosecutors later admitted they knew he had been radicalised but didn't flag them up as a security threat to France. For his part in the attacks on Paris, which killed 130, Abdeslam is thought to have rented the cars, the attackers used to drive to the various locations to gun people down. He was described as being the logistics manager and also organised hotels, flats and ammunition. On the night if the attacks, he was caught on CCTV outside a cafe that was targeted. His brother Brahim blew himself up outside the Comptoir Voltaire brasserie in the 11th arrondissement Later, officers pulled over Abdelsam on Saturday morning on the A2 motorway between Paris and Brussels but checked his ID and let him go. He was travelling with two other people, just hours after he abandoned a car containing three Kalashnikov AK-47 assault rifles on the outskirts of the French capital. Detectives soon realised their blunder when they discovered that Abdeslam had rented VW Polo abandoned near the scene of the massacre inside the Bataclan theatre. However, by the time they alerted Belgian authorities the terror suspect had abandoned the car in Molenbeek, Brussels, an area known as the 'jihadi capital of Europe' and disappeared. An international manhunt was launched. In the days after the attacks, Belgian security forces staged several raids in the Molenbeek district of Brussels, where he lived, which has served as a haven for several jihadists in recent decades. But there was no sign of him and he remained on the run for over four months. Advertisement

Earlier this month relatives and friends were seen carrying his coffin as the terrorist was buried in Brussels four months on from the massacre.

Former small-time criminal Abdeslam is believed to be the last surviving member of the ten-man jihadist team that carried out the Paris attacks.

The arrest of the Belgian-born Morocco-Frenchman was hailed by European and US leaders, while French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said it dealt a 'major blow' to IS jihadists operating in Europe.
An ex-Victoria's Secret model allegedly flew into a jealous rage and beat a man she met on Tinder after she discovered he had been sexting other women.

Heather Payne, 42, repeatedly punched 40-year-old businessman Colby Kirmse in his $1million East Village, New York, apartment after she discovered the racy messages and pictures, according to court documents.

The model-turned-designer then pushed his TV off the stand, launched the remote out of the window and then threw his laptop across the room.

The blonde, who has graced the runway for the likes of Dolce and Gabbana, was so angry she even forwarded some of the messages to his mother.

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Ex-Victoria's Secret model Heather Payne (pictured left in March 2015) allegedly flew into a jealous rage and beat Colby Kirmse, a businessman she met on Tinder, after she discovered he had been sexting other women

Kirmse told the New York Post his apartment was destroyed, and admitted being attacked by an ex-model was 'not one of my highlights'.

He was left with a black eye after the incident on July 24.

'She just destroyed everything in her path like a Tasmanian devil,' he added.

Describing what happened, he said he woke up to her screaming in bed beside him.

Kirmse said the pair had never agreed to be in an exclusive relationship.

He had sent pictures to other women - including snaps of his penis - and had also text them.

The businessman said the worst part of the incident was when she forwarded some of the content to his mother.

The model-turned-designer (pictured left at the 1998 Victoria's Secret fashion show and right in 2012) then pushed his TV off the stand, launched the remote out of the window and then threw his laptop across the room

Kirmse said the pair had never agreed to be in an exclusive relationship. He had sent pictures to other women - including snaps of his penis - and had also text them

According to public records, Kirmse owns a $1million apartment in this building in New York

He told the Post: 'My mom was like, "What are all these pictures of erections?"'

Payne was charged with assault, attempted assault, harassment and criminal mischief.

She agreed to a plea deal last week in Manhattan Criminal Court.

Under the deal, she reportedly agreed to pay Kirmse $2,951 for his ruined electronics, and in return, if she keeps out of trouble for six months, her record will be wiped clean.

Daily Mail Online has contacted Payne for comment.

Payne enjoyed a successful career as a model, appearing on the cover of Elle and Harper's Bazaar.

She now runs her own clothing line: Payne Apparel.

This is not the first brush with the law. She also accused famed restaurateur Nello Balan, of assaulting her.

Payne was charged with assault, attempted assault, harassment and criminal mischief. She agreed to a plea deal in Manhattan Criminal Court and paid Kirmse $2,951 in damages
Donald Trump doubled down Monday morning on his embrace of the slogan 'America First' to describe the moral compass of his foreign policy, saying it would guide him as president.

'My policy is "America First." It will always be "America First",' he told a morning Fox News Channel audience.

A Trump spokesperson did not respond to a question about whether the billionaire was aware that phrase stood for global American isolationism in the face of the World War II-era Nazi threat.

The anti-war America First Committee was a Quaker-dominated group that disbanded days after the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack that catapulted the United States into the 20th Century's single deepest military conflict.

Its views were promoted by a host of politicians and celebrities at the time  including Charles Lindbergh, who argued that America should avoid 'Jewish' and 'British' calls to arms.

'AMERICA FIRST': Donald Trump is continuing to cling to the World War II-era slogan that was once associated with isolationism in the face of a global Nazi threat

Trump said in a New York Times interview published over the weekend that he sees 'America First' as an encapsulation of his view that the U.S. and its deep pockets have been taken for granted by its allies.

'America first, yes, we will not be ripped off anymore,' he told the Times. 'We're going to be friendly with everybody, but we're not going to be taken advantage of by anybody.'

Trump said Monday on the 'Fox & Friends' program that he's grown weary of seeing the United States bear a disproportionately large financial burden to keep international alliances afloat at a time when rapidly changing geopolitics has made much of their combined missions seem antiquated.

'NATO is obsolete,' Trump said, referring to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a European mutual-defense coalition designed nearly 70 years ago to hedge against military threats from the Soviet Union.

'We're spending too much money on NATO. We're paying the lion's share. We're spending tremendous amounts of money on something that was many, many decades ago, and the world has changed. It's a different place,' he explained.

'There's no emphasis on terror with NATO. And frankly, if there is you need different countries, because it involves different countries. NATO is very obsolete.'

Legendary pilot Charles Lindbergh (left) posed with America First Committee national director R. Douglas Stuart Jr. in 1940, more than a year before the anti-war group would disband

The United States funded 72 per cent of NATO's defense spending in 2015, a level of support that has long rankled a variety of Republicans including both isolationists and budget hawks.

But with the resurgence of an aggressive Russia under President Vlacimir Putin, any thoughts about paring back America's contributions to NATO are typically 'dead on arrival' in Congress.

Asked about the continuing need to provide a counterbalance to Moscow, Trump insisted that NATO 'has to be reconstituted. It has to be modernized.'

'We're dealing with NATO from the days of the Soviet Union, which no longer exists. We need to either transition it to terror, or we need something else.'

Trump also bashed the White House's continued insistence that America should absorb increasing numbers of Syrian refugees despite the Obama administration's own admissions that it can't effectively screen out ISIS terrorists and other militant jihadis.

'We're losing our jobs, we're losing everything. But in terms of security, this open door policy is catastrophic,' Trump said.

'And it's going to lead  I mean, you talk about downfall? This could lead to the downfall of the greatest nation on earth.'

Trump also renewed his war of words with Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, following a week of vicious rhetoric between the two Republicans about their wives.

The GOP front-runner renewed his claim that Cruz was playing dumb when he claimed to have no advance knowledge of a small anti-Trump super PAC's tiny online ad buy that used a tasteful but nude modeling picture from Meiania Trump's modeling days.

Cruz has declared that he had nothing to do with the ad, which warned voters in Utah that the sensuous-looking Slovenian would be the next U.S. first lady unless they chose Cruz at the ballot box.

SLOGAN'S HISTORY: 'America First' was used as an anti-war organizing cry durig n World War II

BOOM AND BUST: The Japanese Pearl Harbor attack thrust America into the war and gave the America First Committee a wake-up call that it was on its way out

'He knew about it 100 per cent, just so you understand. He's lying. That's why everyone calls him "Lyin' Ted Cruz." He's a liar,' Trump said Monday.

'He sent the photo out, as sure as you're sitting there. ... He knew about it 100 per cent. It was a PAC that was very friendly to him. Let's not be naive, folks.'

At the same time, Trump reiterated his own claim that he had no influence on a National Enquirer story detailing rumors about as many as five extramarital affairs Cruz has allegedly had.

'I had nothing to do with the National Enquirer. I knew nothing about it. I just saw it yesterday for the first time,' Trump said of the story which the supermarket tab loid published last Wednesday.

'I knew nothing about it. I know nothing about it. I have no idea whether or not it's true ... and I hope it's not true because it's pretty bad.'

Political operatives close to Florida Sen. Marco Rubio had tried for months to turn gossip about Cruz into salacious news stories, largely as a firewall against anticipated 'other woman' stories about Rubio himself.
Convicted murderer John Modie, 58, (pictured) was found 24 hours after officials realized he was missing from his cell at an Ohio prison

A convicted murderer who escaped from an Ohio prison has been found, 24 hours after his escape shut down a college campus.

John Modie, 58, was discovered missing when he was absent during an 11pm headcount inside the Southeastern Correctional Complex in Nelsonville on Sunday night.

The prison was searched overnight before officials announced he had escaped on Monday morning.

Modie was captured by members of the Ohio State Patrol Special Response team around 11pm on Monday night, according to WBNS.

Nearby residents locked their doors and businesses stayed closed as helicopters, patrol cars and officers combed the area on Monday.

Hocking College, a 35-minute drive from the prison, canceled all classes and closed the main campus, warning students that an 'inmate has escaped and is dangerous'.

Some residents said news of Modie's escape had made them a 'little nervous'.

'We never really paid attention to the prison before because we were always told that it was older men with no violent crime,' James Crombie told the station.

'We found that's evidently not the case. So we're nervous about that.'

Modie is serving 15 years to life in prison for the murder of Ucianna Ortiz, whose body was found on October 16, 2002 behind an abandoned warehouse in Cleveland.

Investigators determined that she was killed in Modie's Cleveland home by blunt force trauma to the head, according to Cleveland.com.

Modie was arrested in Texas two weeks later, driving the BMW of another victim in Cuyahoga County. He then walked away from Cuyahoga County Jail after his arrest, but was quickly caught.

He pleaded guilty to murder, robbery, and escape in December 2003. He was due for parole in October 2020.
A homeless parolee suspected of fatally stabbing a 7-Eleven clerk and critically wounding his co-worker wife when they tried to stop him from stealing a hot dog has been identified.

Hasaan Blunt, 42, is being held without bail because he was already on parole, according to LAPD Officer Mike Lopez.

He was booked on suspicion of murder but there's a 'laundry list of additional charges and enhancements', Operations Valley Bureau-Homicide Detective Bob Dinlocker told Daily News.

Blunt was recently released from prison and might have been homeless, police said.

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Police identified Hasaan Blunt, 42, as the suspect in the fatal stabbing of a 7-Eleven clerk. He's also suspected of critically wounding the clerk's co-worker wife when they tried to stop him from stealing a hot dog. Surveillance footage shows the victims and the suspect outside the store

Victim, Washi Uddin Ahmed (left), 55, was stabbed outside the convenience store around 9.15am and pronounced dead shortly after. His wife Lagrima 'Paulina' Lopez, was also stabbed and at the time she was in critical condition but Utsay said she was 'doing great' on Sunday

Blunt who was booked on suspicion of murder was previously convicted in 1998 of assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm and battery causing serious bodily injury. Surveillance footage shows Lopez confronting Blunt outside the store

He was convicted of assault with a deadly weapon other than a firearm and battery causing serious bodily injury in 1998, according to Los Angeles County Superior Court records.

Victim, Washi Uddin Ahmed, 55, was stabbed outside the convenience store around 9.15am and pronounced dead shortly after.

His son, Ibtehaz Ahmed Utsay, 22, told the Daily News that his dad 'was the best'.

'I still can't process how and why this happened. He wasn't the kind of man who would chase after someone over a beer and hot dog.'

Utsay added that he had worked at the store at one point and 'never saw him resort to something like this'.

Ahmed's wife, Lagrima 'Paulina' Lopez, was also stabbed and at the time she was in critical condition but Utsay said she was 'doing great' on Sunday.

Lopez continues to recover at a hospital and was able to eat and talk.

Blunt allegedly stabbed the couple working at a 7-Eleven outside the convenience store in Los Angeles, California, on Friday morning.

He swiped a beer and a hot dog inside the Valley Village store, before the couple pursued him, KTLA reported.

Lopez was seen on video in the parking lot taking the stolen items from the shoplifter, with her husband nearby.

Police said the suspect stabbed Lopez numerous times and Ahmed in the neck during the altercation

Authorities on the scene outside the 7-Eleven store. The store remained closed Saturday and a security guard was posted outside the door

Police said the suspect stabbed Lopez numerous times and Ahmed in the neck during the altercation.

Patron Kelly Seidel told KTLA: 'I'm just at a loss for words.

'They're the best people in the whole world, and I just can't believe that something like this would happen.'

Police said Blunt was believed to be a transient.

Longtime customers told reporters transients typically hang outside the store.

And some said that many panhandlers outside the store have become increasingly aggressive, according to CBS.

Customer Michele Brooks told KTLA: 'This is like an occurrence that probably shouldn't have happened.

'She probably shouldn't have chased after somebody stealing beer, but it happens every day here.

'We get harassed going from our cars to the doors.'

Ahmed's Facebook profile said he was from Bangladesh and he got married in November 2015.

Officials at 7-Eleven Inc issued a statement calling the stabbings 'a horrible situation'.

'Our hearts are with the victims and their families. We are gathering information and working with law enforcement.'








A southern California teen is being praised for his work helping police track down and arrest a man who kidnapped a 2-year-old girl from her grandfather at knifepoint last week.

The 2-year-old girl was sitting on her grandfather's lap inside their mobile home Monday evening when suspect Thomas Ray Dillingham, 40, broke through the front door and said he was 'taking the baby'.

The grandfather refused to turn the child over, but Dillingham was wielding a knife and almost stabbed the man as he grabbed the girl and fled the trailer.

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Carlos Rodriguez, 18, was hailed a hero at a Friday press conference for helping police catch a man who kidnapped a 2-year-old girl

The girl's mother, Crysta Jimenez (right), thanked her daughter's savior on Friday. The victim is seen being held by another family member

Police found the girl unharmed in the bedroom of Thomas Ray Dillingham's trailer last week

The grandfather then ran to a neighbor's home and frantically knocked on the door. Teen Carlos Rodriguez, 18, answered the door and helped the grandfather call 911.

The girl's grandfather (pictured) was looking after her on March 21 when Dillingham broke into their mobile home and said he was 'taking the baby'

While the grandfather and another Good Samaritan woman, 43, searched the trailer park for the girl, Rodriguez stayed on the phone and helped police respond to the situation.

'He stayed on the phone and provided valuable and detailed information throughout the ordeal,' the Los Angeles sheriff's department said in a press release, calling Rodriguez 'a hero'.

The woman and grandfather were able to find Dillingham by asking around the mobile park.

When Dillingham refused to turn the child over, police were called in and arrested him. They found the 2-year-old in the bedroom of his trailer, unharmed.

At a press conference on Friday, the mother of the 2-year-old thanked Rodriguez for his help in returning her daughter.

'I thank him so much  and all the police officers here,' Crysta Jimenez said.

Jimenez said her daughter is 'traumatized' by the incident.

'She doesn't even smile that much anymore. She's very serious now,' Jimenez said. 'I think she's  scared, or something like that.'

Meanwhile, Dillingham, a parolee 'with an extensive criminal history,' was ordered held in jail on $220,000 bail and charged with kidnapping and assault.

He is scheduled to appear in court again on April 12, and could face 30 years in prison if convicted.
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Rob Ford's family have arrived at Toronto's city hall where the former mayor will lie in repose for two days.

The controversial politician died last week at the age of 46 following an 18-month battle with cancer.

His wife, Renata, and two children - Stephanie, 10, and Doug, 8 - arrived on Monday morning with the casket ahead of three days of public mourning, including a funeral.

They then sat and watched as members of the public streamed in to pay their respects to their late father and husband - whose career was blighted by scandals.

The public will be able to visit the coffin for the next two days. Then, on Wednesday, the family will walk in a procession from city hall to St. James Cathedral for the funeral, which is also open to the public.

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Former Toronto Mayor Rob Ford's casket is brought into Toronto's city hall to lie in repose for two days following his death from cancer last week at age 46

Doug Ford (center), the eight-year-old son of Ford, arrives at City Hall with his mother Renata (holding his hand) and 10-year-old sister Stephanie (with finger next to her face)

Stephanie Ford (right) looks at her mother Renata as the family arrives at City Hall in Toronto. The public will be able to visit the coffin for the next two days. Then, on Wednesday, the family will walk in a procession from city hall to St. James Cathedral for the funeral, which is also open to the public

Rob Ford's wife Renata (left to right) son Doug, and daughter Stephanie sit at city hall as members of the public views the husband and father's remains

People pay their respects as the the casket lies in repose. Two women place their hands on the coffin, draped in the Toronto flag

Ford passed away at Mount Sinai Hospital last Tuesday, and his family later broke the news of his death in a statement.

'With heavy hearts and profound sadness, the Ford family announces the passing of their beloved son, brother, husband, and father, Councillor Rob Ford, earlier today at the age of 46,' the statement reads . 'A dedicated man of the people, Councillor Ford spent his life serving the citizens of Toronto.'

Ford underwent ten rounds of chemotherapy in the past year and a half to treat an aggressive form of cancer that reappeared after surgery.

The exact type of cancer Ford was diagnosed with is called pleomorphic liposarcoma, a rare and hard-to-treat cancer found in the soft, fatty tissue of the body.

After five rounds of chemotherapy, he had the tumor removed in September of last year.

But just a month later, doctors found two more tumors on his bladder.

Ford became internationally infamous in 2013 after the Toronto Star and American website Gawker obtained a video which appeared to show the then-Toronto mayor smoking from a crack pipe.

Ford (pictured in April 2014) underwent ten rounds of chemotherapy in the past year and a half to treat an aggressive form of cancer that reappeared after surgery

Ford's casket is brought into city hall from the back of a hearse as officials prepare for two days of public visitation

Ford passed away at Mount Sinai Hospital last Tuesday, and his family later broke the news of his death in a statement which described him as a man of the people

An honor guard stands beside the casket with his head bowed as the public starts to stream to pay tribute to the politician

Another officer marches past the red carpet sitting beneath Ford's enclosed remains

He denied the existence of the video but later backtracked when police said they had obtained it. Although he became the subject of a police investigation, Ford was never charged with a crime.

'Yes, I have smoked crack cocaine,' Ford told reporters. 'But, no, do I? Am I addict? No. Have I tried it? Probably in one of my drunken stupors, probably approximately about a year ago.'

According to police interviews, members of Ford's staff accused the mayor of frequently drinking, driving while intoxicated and making sexual advances toward a female staffer.

Ford drew gasps when he used crude language on live television to deny telling a staffer he wanted to have oral sex.

The father of two school-age children said he was 'happily married' and that he enjoys enough oral sex at home.

Despite immense pressure, Ford refused to resign. The City Council stripped Ford of most of his powers but lacked the authority to force him out of office because he wasn't convicted of a crime.

Ford announced he was entering rehab in April 2014 after newspaper reports detailed three different nights in which the mayor was extremely intoxicated. One report cited a video that appeared to show him again smoking a crack pipe.

Although his cancer ultimately forced him to drop his re-election bid, Ford opted to seek his old City Council seat. It was in the same suburban district where he launched his political career and where his everyman style and conservative fiscal policies first gained a faithful following that became known as Ford Nation. He won his old seat in a landslide.

His brother Doug replaced him on the ballot for mayor but lost.

When Ford was elected mayor in 2010, his bluster was widely known. A plurality of voters backed him, eager to shake things up at a City Hall they viewed as elitist and wasteful.

Ford's voter base resided mainly in the outer suburbs, a result of the Conservative provincial government's decision to force liberal Toronto to merge with five of its neighboring municipalities in 1998, creating a mega-city that now has 2.7million residents.

Ford appealed to conservative-leaning, working-class suburban residents with his populist, common-man touch and with promises to slash spending, cut taxes and end what he called 'the war on the car'. He first won as mayor by promising to 'stop the gravy train' of government spending.

The youngest of four children, Rob Ford grew up in a palatial home in the Toronto suburb of Etobicoke. He dropped out of university after a year and worked at the family business.

Ford mayor met his wife, Renata, in high school, and they were married in 2000. One of Renata Ford's few forays into the media spotlight came in 2008 after a widely reported domestic dispute with her husband. Rob Ford was charged with assault and threatening death, but prosecutors withdrew the charges, citing inconsistencies in Renata Ford's statements.
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This is the harrowing Indonesian village where people with mental illnesses are shackled to the floor and locked up in dark, cell-like rooms.

In Sidoharjo, Karangpatihan and Krebet, both adolescents and adults have severe physical disabilities, also known as 'Kampung Idiot'.

The horrifying images show a 40-year-old woman called Sijum lying immobile on her back as her mother spoon-feeds her, while Saimun, 45, sits on the ground in his house, where his legs have been chained for 20 years by his parents because he has a mental illness.

These victims live below the poverty line and many suffer from malnutrition, visual and hearing impairment - but villagers and government officials blame incest, malnutrition and iodine deficiency as the cause for their illness.

Sinem sits on the dank, wet floor of her house in Krebet Village in Jambon subdistrict of Indonesia

Bosmot is 55 - government officials blame incest, malnutrition and iodine deficiency as the cause for the illness

Sinem, clad in a tattered shirt and shorts sits barefoot in the dirt of a dark, squalid room in the village of Krebet

Saimun, 45, lies on the ground inside his house, where his legs have been chained for 20 years by his parents because he has a mental illness

More than 400 people suffer from psychosocial disabilities in Ponorogo, East Java, and live in squalid conditions, with their family earning between 30 to 50 U.S. dollars per month.

A common practice in these villages was to keep those with psychosocial disabilities under pasung - shackled or locked up. Indonesia's government banned the practice of shackling in 1977 but failed to enforce it.

According to Human Rights Watch, more than 57,000 people have been subjected to pasung once in their lives and around 18,800 are currently being shackled.

Thousands of Indonesians with a mental illness are currently shackled, according to a Human Rights Watch (HRW) report released on Monday.

The 74-page report, 'Living in Hell: Abuses against People with Psychosocial Disabilities in Indonesia' examines how people with mental health conditions often end up chained or locked up in overcrowded and unsanitary institutions.

Chaining up the mentally ill has been illegal in Indonesia for nearly 40 years but remains rife across the country, especially in rural areas where health services are limited and belief in evil spirits prevail, according to HRW.

Suhananto, 30, sits inside a cage, where he has been locked up in a confined space for a year by his parents because he has a mental illness

Legi, and her brother Saremon are kept under 'pasung' - either shackled or locked up

Simus is 60, he crouches in his dark house which is laden with threadbare rugs and bamboo thatching in Krebet Village

Dwi Sarnawati, 19, is one of many victims living below the poverty line with their family earning between 30 to 50 U.S. dollars per month

Gondek 50, cleans up leftover paddy collected from the harvest at Krebet village in Jambon subdistrict

'Nobody should have to be shackled in Indonesia in 2016 - people told us again and again that it's like living in hell,' Kriti Sharma, disability rights researcher at the group and author of the report, told AFP.

As well as shackling, the report listed a litany of other abuses the mentally ill face in Indonesia - sexual violence, electroshock therapy, and restraint and seclusion in often overcrowded, unsanitary institutions.

There are just 48 mental hospitals in Indonesia, a country of 250 million, most of them in urban areas.

Treatment options are scarce for the millions living in remote regions, leaving desperate families to turn to faith healers in the Muslim-majority nation, some of whom chain up patients.

Sati, 39, takes a bath assisted by her mother in her house. Many of the victims suffer from malnutrition, visual and hearing impairment

Jamila, 13, lies on blue tarpaulin spread out inside a house at Sidowayah village in Jambon subdistrict

Saimun, 45, lies on the ground inside his house, where his legs have been chained for 20 years by his parents because he has a mental illness

HRW - who interviewed around 150 people for their report, from the mentally ill to health professionals - said there are currently almost 19,000 people in Indonesia who are either shackled or locked up in a confined space, a practice known locally as 'pasung'.

At least 14 million people in Indonesia aged 15 and over are thought to have some form of mental illness, according to health ministry data.

Shackling of mentally ill people happens across Asia but is particularly common in Indonesia, with studies showing that it is due to poor mental health services in rural areas and a lack of knowledge about suitable treatments.

Families that choose not to send mentally ill relatives to faith healers sometimes take matters into their own hands.

Andika, 17, takes a bath assisted by his mother Supini at Sidoarjo village

Faiz, who is only 10 is cradled by his mother Tumini, inside their house

Faiz is pictured lying spreadeagled on filthy-looking bed sheets - Indonesia's government banned the practice of shackling in 1977 but failed to enforce it

Chaining up the mentally ill has been illegal in Indonesia for nearly 40 years but still happens across the country, especially in rural areas where health services are limited and belief in evil spirits prevail, according to Human Rights Watch (pictured Andika, 17, playing with his mother Supini)

Sijum, 40, lies immobile on her back as her mother Toyimah spoons food into her mouth
Mohammad Dar (pictured), 65, posted the messages six months ago at his location in Kemah, Texas

A Muslim American Dairy Queen owner has given up his shop after putting up anti-Hindu signs in and around the restaurant.

Mohammad Dar, 65, began posting the messages six months ago at his location in Kemah, Texas, KPRC reported.

Two of them, placed near the front door, mention several religions and political leaders.

Some of the messages, displayed on tall panels, mention Hinduism specifically and accuse it of being based on racism.

Dar taped more messages near the register, on the drive-through window and placed a large sign outside of the restaurant, in the parking lot.

This sign, which can be seen from the road, reads: 'Obey preserve implement Constitution of the USA NOT monkey ism (sic) of Dark Ages.'

Dar, who emigrated from Pakistan and became a US citizen 40 years ago, told mySA.com the messages were the results of his own findings, which he had 'researched' for 14 years.

Dar put up a larhe sign on the parking lot of his Dairy Queen (pictured), as well as two large boards by the front door and messages on the drive-through window and near the register

The signs inside the shop (pictured) criticize several religions and display several emblems such as a Confederate flag, a Star of David and a Christian cross

He told KHOU he believes it's 'wrong' to follow a man-made religion instead of a set of laws or beliefs.

'They may look like humans, but they act like monkeys,' he said.

Dar also told KPRC: 'Racism is the foundation of Hinduism. That is the fact. Anybody has a problem, I challenge them to prove me wrong.

'This is not offensive. It's educational,' he added.

The signs inside the shop also display several emblems such as a Confederate flag, a Star of David and a Christian cross.

They picture several world leaders, including Kim Jong-Un, the Dalai Lama, the Pope and Queen Elizabeth II.

Dar told KPRC that few of his daily 200 customers had complained about the signs.

But the Hindus of Greater Houston told CW39 in a statement: 'While Mr Dar has a First Amendment right to say what he wants at his own place of business, we find it disappointing that he chooses to malign Hinduism.'

Now, Kemah's Dairy Queen is set to get a new owner by the end of the month, Dairy Queen spokesman Dean Peters told the Star Tribune.

The boards They picture several world leaders, including Kim Jong-Un, the Dalai Lama and the Pope (pictured). Some passages mention Hinduism specifically

Dar, who emigrated from Pakistan and has been a US citizen for 40 years, says the signs (pictured) don't bother most of his customers and are 'educational'

He also placed a large sign outside of the shop, in the parking lot (pictured). This sign, which can be seen from the road, reads: 'Obey preserve implement Constitution of the USA NOT monkey ism (sic) of Dark Ages'

Peters also said that Dairy Queen executives did not condone the behavior displayed by Dar, who operated the restaurant under a license.

'The actions and statements of this individual franchisee are not representative of ADQ's corporate values, nor of our iconic family brand,' he added. 'We support and welcome all customers, and expect our franchisees to do the same.'

The Sri Meenaski Temple Society in Pearland, about 24 miles away from Kemah, told KPRC in a statement: 'Hindu philosophy allows one to respect other faiths and accommodate a broad perspective, rather than claiming monopoly of the Divine presence.

'We believe in ONE God, who can be worshiped in its numerous manifestations, just as water can be in the form of ice, snow, steam or flowing river. Truth is one, but the wise call it by different names.'

Dar says few of his 200 daily customers have complained about the signs but one of them expressed her dismay on Twitter with a snap of Dar's messages near the register (pictured)
Disturbing Facebook photos showing two murder suspects, including a 14-year-old boy, holding a gun that is believed to have been used in a pizza delivery driver's murder in Georgia were presented during a court hearing in the case on Friday.

Reginald Lofton, 14, and Jermaine Young, 21, are accused of robbing and murdering Papa John's pizza delivery man Shane Varnadore on March 1 at an apartment complex in Gwinnett County, WSB-TV reported.

Young and Lofton, who is being charged as an adult, face charges of felony murder, aggravated assault and armed robbery in Varnadore's shooting death.

Varnadore, 28, was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound just before midnight, WSB-TV reported.

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Just hours before the delivery driver Shane Varnadore's murder, both suspects posted photos to Facebook allegedly showing them holding the same gun that was used to kill Varnadore. Above left and right Reginald Lofton, 14, poses for photos with guns. It's unclear if either gun he holds above was used in the murder

During the court hearing, the lead Gwinnett County investigator testified that both Lofton and Jermaine Young (above), 21, are blaming each other for killing Varnadore. It's unclear if the gun he is holding pictured right was used in the murder

Shane Varnadore (above), 28, was found dead from an apparent gunshot wound just before midnight on March 1 at an apartment complex in Gwinnett County

During the court hearing, the lead Gwinnett County investigator testified that both Lofton and Young, who are from Lawrenceville, are blaming each other for killing Varnadore.

'There were several times during the interview with facts changed, the story changed,' Gwinnett Police Detective Matthew Kenck said in court.

According to WSB-TV, police executed a search warrant a day after the murder and say the suspects hid the murder weapon and magazine inside pancake mix boxes in kitchen cabinets at an apartment.

In addition, officers found three of the four pizza boxes delivered that night behind washers and dryers.

Reginald Lofton (left), 14, and Jermaine Young (right), 21, are accused of robbing and murdering the Papa John's pizza delivery man

Young (center) and Lofton (right), who is being charged as an adult, face charges of felony murder, aggravated assault and armed robbery in the death of Varnadore on March 1

Just hours before the delivery driver's murder, both suspects posted photos to Facebook allegedly showing them holding the same gun that was used to kill Varnadore, WSB-TV reported.

Police say the serial numbers were readable and solidify that claim, WSB-TV reported. However, authorities are still working on the ballistic tests on the gun.

Outside of the court on Friday, Lofton's family members approached the victims to apologize for their loss.

'It's hard. It's stressful for both families, especially for a 14-year-old boy,' Lofton's sister, Porsha Porter, told WSB-TV.

Varnadore's mother, Teresa, told WSB-TV: 'It's been a lot to process over a short period of time. I'm glad they got the guys who did this and it's terrible that three people's lives have been ruined over stupid act'

'It's been a lot to process over a short period of time. I'm glad they got the guys who did this and it's terrible that three people's lives have been ruined over stupid act,' Varnadore's mother, Teresa, told WSB-TV.

Both Lofton and Varnadore appear to be originally from the Chicago area and moved to Georgia to escape their troubled pasts.

According to WSB-TV, Young has 22 criminal cases tied to his name, including arrests for drugs, domestic violence, robbery and aggravated battery.

Young's mother said that her son was not even supposed to be in Georgia during the murder and was scheduled to return to Chicago, but missed his bus that day.

Varnadore was found dead outside of the apartment complex pictured above




She alleged the vast majority 'have homes and already receive benefits'

'Career beggars' are making hundreds of pounds a week even though many have homes and receive benefits, according to a city manager in Scotland.

Sarah Craig, responsible for promoting shopping and tourism in Dundee, said begging was a 'lifestyle choice' and that nobody needs to do it.

Reports in the city suggest a rise in the number of people choosing to seek money on the streets despite having been identified as having their own homes or tenancies and being in receipt of benefits.

'Career beggars' are making hundreds of pounds a week on the streets of Dundee according to a senior city council manager (file picture)

Ms Craig said: 'The vast majority have homes and already receive benefits. Begging on the street is simply a lifestyle choice.

'There are around 12 individuals who we deal with on a daily basis begging across Dundee City Centre.

'Every single one of them has a unique set of circumstances, life story and more often than not, complex needs, but none of these individuals are what you would class as homeless.'

Dundee City Council is now investigating whether they can be targeted using anti-social behaviour legislation to force them from the streets and convince them to seek help.

Some are said to make up to 200 a week from residents and visitors who believe them to be genuinely homeless - with more than one reported to have travelled to the city to beg from elsewhere in Tayside.

There are also fears that the kindness could kill, as a number of those identified by the council and its partners have serious alcohol and substance abuse problems.

Beggars have been spotted huddled in doorways, on street corners and sheltering in the shadow of the V&A Museum construction.

Council staff engage with Dundee's beggars on a daily basis, providing every person with information on where they can get warm clothing, support for substance misuse, addiction or mental health issues or help with housing or accommodation, together with a full list of where they can get free hot food and drink every single day of the week.

In the process, the council has built up a huge body of information on each and every beggar and it is that deep investigation which has brought the council to question the actions of some and take legal steps, in the absence of a bi-law preventing begging.

Pictured: The headquarters of Dundee City Council, which is looking at using anti-social behaviour laws to clear the city's streets of beggars

Ms Craig said: 'The problem of so-called 'career beggars' isn't unique to Dundee as studies carried out in other cities highlight a similar problem.

'We tend to find people begging where the highest footfall is, including High Street and Murraygate and outside the train station.

'Unsuspecting passers-by, who often wrongly presume the beggar is homeless, throw in a pound coin and think no more of it.

'Sadly, our experience dealing with beggars in the city centre tells us that the money is not being used to buy food or a hot drink. It is being used to fund drug and alcohol habits.

'The reality is that this misplaced act of kindness could kill. We have seen a number of people who used to beg on the city centre streets succumb to their drug habit.

'My advice to anyone who wants to help those people begging on the street, is to instead donate money to any one of the many local support groups and charities who can appropriate funds where they are genuinely needed.'
A Canadian pensioner has been arrested after he was caught appearing to kiss a three-year-old girl on the lips even though police were standing nearby.

Walter Suk, 68, from Quebec was seen looking as though he was kissing and touching two underage girls in the city of Acapulco in the Mexican state of Guerrero.

It happened while he was sitting on a bench in front of the Oceanic 2000 commercial centre.

The footage also sees him poking his tongue out of the camera before speaking saying it is normal to kiss the children as 'I like them and they like me'

Video footage of the incident was recorded on a mobile phone and posted online.

It appears to show an unnamed man, who saw what was going on, go and confront the alleged pedophile and also call the police.

When officers arrived together with the girls' father, he started filming, and managed to capture the pensioner appearing to kiss one of the girls.

The witness can be heard speaking on the video saying: 'We are reporting the case of this Yankee kissing these two girls. Look at him, he seems to think this is normal.'

Suk then replies saying: 'Yes, it's normal. I like them, they like me.'

Local media reported that Suk, who speaks fluent Spanish as well as English appeared to be undisturbed by his behaviour.

The footage also sees him poking his tongue out of the camera shortly before kissing the three-year-old on the lips again in front of police officers.

The bemused father of the two children is remarkably at a loss trying to understand what is happening.

However, their mother was far more direct, and demanded the man be arrested when she arrived.

The General Prosecutor's Office said in a press release: 'Through the public ministry agency for sexual offenses, an indictment for sexual abuse against underage people has been initiated.

'Defendant Walter Suk from Quebec, Canada, is allegedly responsible for such actions done against an underage child.'
An Uber car has been seized by police investigating the murder of Muslim shopkeeper Asad Shah - who was stabbed to death after wishing friends and customers a 'very happy Easter'.

The grey Volkswagan Passat mini-cab with Uber branding in the windscreen was parked opposite Mr Shah's shop in Glasgow, where he was killed just four hours after posting his Easter message to 'my beloved Christian nation'.

The vehicle - a private hire cab registered with the city council in Bradford, 200 miles from Glasgow - is feared to have transported Mr Shah's killer to the scene, and is now undergoing forensic testing.

Tragic: Shopkeeper Asad Shah, 40, was killed in a brutal attack outside his shop in Glasgow on Thursday night

The 40-year-old newsagent was stabbed up to 30 times with a kitchen knife and his head was stamped on in the brutal attack on Thursday.

Police suspect the incident was 'religiously prejudiced' and have arrested a 32-year-old Muslim man belonging to the rival Sunni sect over the murder.

The man will appear in court in Glasgow tomorrow.

Forensic officers slowly drove a recovery truck into the cordon and winched the private hire saloon cab onto the back of it before driving away.

The vehicle seizure happened at 2.30pm on Friday afternoon outside Mr Shah's shop on Minard Road in the Shawlands area of Glasgow but has only just come to light.

News of the seizure comes 24 hours after reports that Mr Shah's killer had travelled to Scotland from Bradford.

An Uber spokesman said yesterday that the car was registered to a private hire cab driver in Bradford who last used the Uber app on Monday, March 21.

The spokesman said the car had not been used for any Uber trips in Glasgow and said any driver given a private hire licence by Bradford City Council had to pass enhanced DBS disclosure tests.

Police Scotland yesterday refused to comment on the seizure of the vehicle.

Police said on Friday that Mr Shah's death was being treated as 'religiously prejudiced'. Detectives are investigating the theory that the attacker became enraged over faith-related messages that the newsagent posted on his Facebook page.

It is feared Mr Shah was set upon because he belonged to the Ahmadi Islamic community, which promotes 'love for all, hatred for none' but which has been denounced as heretical by some hardline mainstream Muslims.

Just hours before he died, popular Mr Shah had taken to Facebook to say: 'Good Friday and a very Happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation.'

And he added: 'Let's follow the real footstep of beloved holy Jesus Christ and get the real success in both worlds.'

In previous posts, he spoke out against violence and hatred and called for 'unconditional real love for all mankind'.

Horrific: Witnesses say Mr Shah was stabbed and then stamped on before his attacker fled the scene of the brutal attack

A crowdfunding site set up to raise money for Mr Shah's family has reached 75,000 thanks to donations from across Britain and further afield. Posts on the page describe Mr Shah as a 'popular, well-respected and much-loved' member of the community.

Two vigils were also held in the local area over the weekend.

A silent vigil on Friday evening was attended by about 400 people, including Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, whose constituency covers the area.

An event held on Saturday was organised by local teenagers on social media.

Aleesa Malik, 17, said: 'He would want to know how are you, what are you doing. He took an interest in everyone's lives - old, young, anyone.

'You could be any colour, that would not be an issue for him, he just cared too much.'

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joined an estimated crowd of 400 to 500 people for the vigil to show solidarity and remember Mr Shah

Mr Shah's family say they now live in fear of retribution in the wake of the attack.

Speaking on the condition that his name was not published, one of the shopkeeper's three brothers said: 'We have to be careful now about our own security. We are scared for our lives.

THE SECT THAT PREACHES LOVE Asad Shah belonged to the Ahmadi Muslim community, which preaches love and tolerance. The sect, which has a huge missionary network spreading its values of non-violence, identifies itself as a Muslim movement and follows the teachings of the Koran. But it is regarded by orthodox Muslims as heretical because followers do not believe Mohammed was the final prophet sent to guide mankind. As a result, Ahmadi Muslims have been persecuted  particularly in ultra-conservative Pakistan. It moved its headquarters to Britain in the 1980s and is currently based in Morden, south London. The reformist movement's founder was Islamic teacher Mirza Ghulam Ahmad who was born in India in 1835. Advertisement

'The police have told us to be careful about what we say.'

Mr Shah's widow fought back tears as she described her husband as a 'kind man who was always smiling'.

Another of the victim's brothers, who now lives in the US, said the Pakistani family moved to Glasgow in the late 1990s and opened the shop in the Shawlands area.

'The people of Glasgow and Shawlands were so welcoming and we became part of the community,' he said.'[Asad] knew all his customers by name and sometimes they would just come in for a chat.

'He was a calm and patient man and did not mind where people were from or what religion they were.

'He liked everyone. He would give people cards for Christmas and for Easter as he knew it was important to them.'

Another Ahmadi Muslim in Glasgow said: 'The last I've heard of people experiencing sectarianism like we do was in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.

'Orthodox Muslims consider us to be blasphemers.'

Family friend Mohammad Faisal said a bearded Muslim man wearing a long religious garment spoke angrily to Mr Shah in his native language before stabbing him up to 30 times in the head.

Mr Faisal added: 'It was just a clear-cut revenge attack. For posting messages about peace, messages about greeting fellow Christians and Jews  other people from different beliefs.'

Senior police officers have written a letter of reassurance to communities shocked by the death of Mr Shah.

Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Ruaraidh Nicolson and Commander Mak Chishty, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for race, religion and belief, have now written to communities in the south side of Glasgow vowing to deal 'swiftly and strongly' with issues.

The letter read: 'We would like to express our sincere condolences to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time. We would like to reassure you that we will be working very closely with all communities and any sectarian conflict, hatred or extremism will be dealt with swiftly and strongly.

'We are proud of our community cohesion. Through continuing to work and engage with our communities we will ensure they remain safe and are always protected.
A Saudi Arabian man has been arrested after he raised the rainbow LGBT pride flag outside his home in Jeddah.

The unnamed doctor was arrested by Saudi religious police within hours of flying the flag on a pole in the port city.

However, he was released shortly afterwards, after claiming he had no idea the rainbow flat represented LGBT pride.

Half-mast: The unnamed doctor was arrested by Saudi religious police within hours of flying the rainbow LGBT pride flag outside his home in Jeddah

The man told Saudi religious police, known as the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, that he had bought the flag online.

He explained to the Committee that his children had 'found the colors pretty', so he bought it for them, Albawaba.com reports.

After promising to remove the flag with immediate effect, he was bailed pending an investigation.

No pride: The Saudi man was released on bail after telling religious police that he had bought the flag online because his children liked the colours, and claimed he had no idea what it represented

Homosexuality remains illegal under Saudi Arabia's harsh interpretation of Sharia Law, and punishable by death.

Although the maximum punishment for homosexuality is execution, the Saudi government tends to use other punishments such as fines, prison sentences, chemical castration and whipping.

A second conviction for homosexuality automatically merits execution.
Over 1,000 people were arrested in a nationwide operation targeting members of transnational gangs, U.S. immigration officials announced Monday.

The five-week operation, which was led by Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations division, concluded last Monday and netted 915 suspected gang members.

Most of the suspected gang members were affiliated with the gangs MS-13, Surenos, Nortenos, Eighteenth Street and Bloods, ICE spokesperson Sarah Rodriguez told Daily Mail Online.

'I would say this is on par with what we do in one of these gang surges,' Rodriguez said.

'We do gang enforcement all year round, but once or twice a year we do a surge, where officers drill down on gang leads that they have. It becomes the national focus for a couple of weeks,' she said.

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An HSI special agent inspects an arrested individual's tattoos for signs of gang affiliation in a picture released by ICE in connection with Monday's announcement

State, federal and local law enforcement agencies participated in the operation, which saw arrests across the country. Pictured, officers making an arrest in Houston, Texas

An HSI Special Agent surveys gang graffiti from the Surenos gang in Houston, Texas

Most of the suspected gang members were affiliated with the gangs MS-13, Surenos, Nortenos, Eighteenth Street and Bloods. Pictured, a suspect is being questioned in Houston, Texas

Of the 1,133 arrested, 894 were U.S. citizens.

The remaining suspects were citizens of China, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Jamaica, Spain, Mexico, and other countries, Rodirguez said.

State, federal and local law enforcement agencies participated in the operation, which saw arrests across the country.

Most of the arrests were made in the Los Angeles, San Juan, Atlanta, San Francisco, Houston, and El Paso areas, ICE officials wrote in a press release.

Of those who were swept up in the operation, 86 were nabbed for other non-gang related criminal warrants and 132 for immigration violations, Rodriguez said.

During the course of the operation, ICE agents seized 150 firearms, over 20 kilograms of drugs and more than $70,000, according to the press release.

The surge, named Project Shadowfire, was conducted under a decade-old gang enforcement operation known as Community Shield, which has netted more than 40,000 gang-related arrests and seized over 8,000 firearms, according to ICE.

HSI special agents inspect a suspect's tattoos for indications of gang affiliation in Houston, Texas

During the course of the operation, ICE agents seized 150 firearms, over 20 kilograms of drugs and more than $70,000. Pictured, an arrest in Houston, Texas
A top Chinese official has blasted the Dalai Lama claiming he is 'making a fool' of Buddhism by suggesting he may not reincarnate when he dies.

Zhu Weiqun, chairman of the ethnic and religious affairs committee of the top advisory body to China's parliament, said the Dalai Lama had to respect tradition.

Tibetan Buddhism believes that the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated in the body of a child on his death.

The Dalai Lama - who fled into exile in India after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959 - is being accused of adopting a 'useless' approach by suggesting he may be reincarnated as an animal or 'something entirely inappropriate'

However, the Dalai Lama - who fled into exile in India after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959 - is being accused of adopting a 'useless' approach by suggesting he may be reincarnated as an animal or 'something entirely inappropriate'.

Writing in the state-run Global Times, Mr Weiqun wrote: 'The Dalai Lama continues to proclaim his reincarnation is a "purely religious matter" and something only he can decide, but he has no way to compel admiration from the faithful.

'He's been proclaiming he'll reincarnate as a foreigner, as a bee, as a "mischievous blond girl", or even proposing a living reincarnation or an end to reincarnation.

'All of this, quite apart from making a fool of Tibetan Buddhism, is completely useless when it comes to extricating him from the difficulty of reincarnation,' wrote Zhu, who was involved in the past in Beijing's failed efforts to talk to the Dalai Lama's representatives.'

The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader is considered a violent separatist by China.

He denies espousing violence and insists he only wants genuine autonomy for Tibet.

The comments against him come as early election results put the leader of the Tibetan government-in-exile, Lobsang Sangay, on course for a second term, part of a strategy to sustain a decades-old struggle for greater autonomy for its Chinese-ruled homeland.

Tibetan Buddhism believes that the soul of a senior lama is reincarnated in the body of a child on his death

China says the tradition must continue and its officially atheist Communist leaders have the right to approve the Dalai Lama's successor, as a right inherited from China's emperors.

A senior aide to the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Taklha, said there was 'no way' Tibetans would accept a successor appointed by China.

'The Chinese are following an absurd agenda and we continue to reject it,' he said.

In 2011, the Dalai Lama called on exiled Tibetans to nominate an elected leader, or 'Sikyong', to lead the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA). Sangay was on track to win re-election with over 65 percent backing in the March 20 vote.

'I hope to do much better. Both on political terms, by holding dialogue with the Chinese, and working on welfare issues in the next five years,' he told Reuters.
A picture of a man apparently hiding his wife behind his headscarf in a restaurant booth has split opinion in Saudi Arabia.

The image, taken in Saudi Arabia, shows a large red and white headscarf draped over a frosted booth window preventing the woman from being seen.

It has already sparked controversy online in the kingdom with some saying the man was 'protecting' his wife while others have called the measure 'overzealous'.

A picture of a man apparently hiding his wife behind his headscarf in a restaurant booth has split opinion in Saudi Arabia

The photograph has attracted a mixed reaction, including from this Twitter user who backs the man's actions

The woman, who is sitting opposite her husband, is already wearing the traditional black abaya and only a small part of her is visible.

Meanwhile, there was also controversy over whether the picture being shared on social media constituted a cyber crime.

According to Gulf News, more than 100,000 people commented on the picture in just days.

It says one woman, BintS, 'greatly appreciated the man's level of jealousy' and that it showed how much he loved his wife.

But others said she should be 'treated with respect and dignity' and that the man had shown himself to be 'overprotective'.

Saudi women leave a polling station after casting their votes in the Kigdom's municipal elections, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in December

Saudi Arabia has some of the world's tightest restrictions on women, who must cover themselves in black from head to toe when they appear in public.

Women must get permission from male family members to travel, work or marry, and Saudi Arabia is the world's only country where women cannot drive.

A slow expansion of their rights began under the late king Abdullah who in 2013 appointed women to the Shura Council which advises the cabinet.

He also announced that women would be able to participate in municipal elections.

Their first ballot as voters and candidates occurred last December, when about 20 were elected to local councils and several others were appointed.




Prosecutors said the shooting was an accident, but urged Tombstone officials to improve their safety measures

Investigators say Carter failed to check is weapon before the skit

reenacting the 1881 OK Corral gunfight - which involved the likes of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday

Arizona authorities say they won't prosecute an actor who shot and injured another performer with a live round during a mock gunfight in Tombstone.

According to the The Sierra Vista Herald, the Cochise County Attorney's office says evidence shows the re-enacted the 1881 shooting at OK Corral - portraying Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday and others - was accidental.

However they did state the performers need better protocol for ammunition checks.

Tom Carter and Ken Curtis were in a fake standoff on October 18 when Carter fired a live round. Curtis was struck in the groin.

Arizona authorities say they won't prosecute an actor who shot and injured another performer during a mock gunfight in Tombstone (example pictured)

Tom Carter (left) and Ken Curtis (right) were in a fake standoff on October 18 when Carter fired a live round. Curtis was struck in the groin

He has since recovered from his injury. Investigators say Carter had failed to go through a weapon's check before the skit.

Tombstone has since passed a law requiring businesses to obtain permits to conduct shooting re-enactments.

Jeff Miller, the chief of the Tombstone Vigilantes, told Daily Mail Online at the time the group has never had an incident like this in the past and that it was an accident.

He said: 'We have safety protocols in place.

'The guns are checked at the beginning of every show... obliviously there was a flaw.

'I have no idea how it happened and I'm hoping the marshal can get to the bottom of it.'

Miller said Carter and Curtis have both been Vigilantes for more than ten years.

Cochise County Attorney's office says evidence shows the re-enacted shooting at the touristic attraction OK Corral was accidental, but they managers were urged to make their procedures safer

Wyatt Earp (right) and Doc Holiday (left) and others were involved in the historic gunfight at the OK Corral

After the shooting, Curtis tried getting word to Carter that he knew that it was a mistake and there was no animosity on his part, according to Miller.

At least two bullets struck nearby businesses, with one causing shrapnel to hit a female bystander.

She refused treatment and a marshal's office dispatcher said the woman was not seriously injured.

Tombstone authorities called it an unprecedented event.

Tombstone, about three hours southeast of Phoenix, was once a bustling mining town in the 1800s and it now has about 1,500 residents.

The town mostly caters to tourists who come to see gunfight re-enactments and historical sites.
A 17-year-old girl in Detroit, Michigan cried in court on Monday as she was sentenced to 10 to 20 years behind bars for conspiring to kill her entire family with her adult boyfriend.

Roksana Sikorski was just 15 years old in October 2014, when she woke up in the middle of the night and sliced her little brother's throat in a failed attempt to off her parents and two siblings.

Before the judge read her sentence on Monday, Sikorski's mother addressed the court and pleaded for mercy for her adopted daughter.

'She's in desperate need of continued psychological help,' Laurene Sikorski said. 'She is still fragile, and an adult prison would shatter her delicate world. How will sentencing her as an adult help her? Is this justice?'

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Roksana Sikorski, 17, was sentenced to 10 to 20 years in prison on Monday, for conspiring to kill her four family members

Roksana broke down in tears on Monday when she learned her fate. She apologized to her parents 'for not being the daughter they wished I would be'

Her adopted father Jeffrey added that he was 'disgusted' with how the trial unfolded and that he worries with how she will fare in prison.

'Shes vulnerable. Shes young,' Mr Sikorski said.

Roksana was four years old when the Sikorskis adopted her and her two siblings from Poland.

Due to abuse she suffered in early childhood, Roksana was diagnosed with reactive attachment disorder - a mental illness where children are unable to form an emotional attachment with their primary caregivers.

The teen appeared genuinely sorry in court on Monday as she apologized to her parents 'for not being the daughter they wished I would be'.

Roksana's mother Laurene Sikorski (pictured) pleaded with the judge to go easy on her daughter, to no avail

'I promise that I will get better, no matter what happens,' Roksana said through tears.

Despite the protestations of her parents, the judge nonetheless sentenced Roksana to 10 to 20 years behind bars.

The teen took a plea deal back in February, agreeing to plead guilty to one count of assault with intent to murder in exchange for six other felony charges getting dropped.

Meanwhile, the boyfriend who encouraged Roksana to kill her whole family is serving a life sentence for the crime, after being found guilty on all seven counts.

Michael Rivera, now 24, allegedly convinced Roksana to join the plot shortly after he was arrested for having illegal sex with the underage girl.

Roksana, pictured in her mugshot on the left, allegedly tried to kill her family in order to help her then 22-year-old boyfriend Michael Rivera (right) avoid jail time for having illegal underage sex with her

Rivera was 22 at the time and thought having Roksana kill her entire family would stop the prosecution of the rape case against him.

The young man apparently texted Roksana detailed instructions on how to kill her parents and siblings the night of the incident.

'Baby im here im here just cut the throat quickly on both of them ... Just stab there necks baby at the artery,' one of the text messages from Rivera reads.

Roksana reportedly responded: 'I cant. Im not a psycho.'

Rivera later wrote: ' ... stab like slice but like ur (sic) cutting a tomato.'

Roksana then asked 'Ok so one slice is all it takes?'

Roksana decided to start with her little brother, waking up at 2am and sneaking into his bedroom to cut his throat with a fish fillet knife.

The little boy's screams woke up Roksana's sister however, and Roksana fled the house.
A University of Michigan frat boy is under investigation after he was caught on camera harassing an Uber driver.

Jake Croman, a member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon chapter was recorded calling Artur Zawada, 50, a 'minimum wage f*****' and mocking him because he had to work during a confrontation near the campus in Ann Arbor on March 20.

The former student at the $45,000-a-year Columbia Prep school in New York launches into a foul-mouthed tirade after the driver turned down their fare.

Police and the university are now looking into what happened.

The student, whose father is New York landlord Steven Croman, told him: They [Uber] don't give a s*** about you. They don't give two f****. There are fifty of you, and there is one of me, who spends the most money, you little f***.

The rider then called the driver a 'little f***** f***' and a 'little piece of s***'. He then says 'You're an Uber driver, go f***ing drive you little f***. Minimum wage faggot. Go f*** yourself.'

As he walks away, he turns to the driver again and says 'While you're working all day, guess what? I'm going to sit on my a** and watch TV. F*** you.'

Zawada told The Michigan Tab that he knew the customer from previous trips, and had told him he couldn't ride with him again after several bad experiences.

He said: 'I pulled in I didn't even say anything to the guy, and that happened. So I pulled out my cell phone and recorded him. He should just have cancelled before I came over.

'They were looking for trouble. They were hoping I would lose my cool.'

Zawada, who is from Poland but has lived in the United States for 30 years, says it is the worst treatment he has experienced.

But since the video surfaced, Croman has released a different version of events. He told the student newspaper that the video 'shows one side of an argument I had with an Uber driver'.

He says the driver made an anti-Semitic remarks and 'refused to pick me up on the basis of my religion'.

Jake Croman, a member of the University of Michigan's Tau Kappa Epsilon chapter was recorded calling Artur Zawada, 50, a 'minimum wage f*****' and mocking him because he had to work during a confrontation near the campus in Ann Arbor

He added: 'I am not proud of my reaction to his discrimination and I regret my choice of words. Shortly after the verbal altercation, I filed a complaint with the Ann Arbor police department and they are now dealing with the issue

A university spokesperson told The Tab: 'We have seen the video. Our dean of students has talked with both the Uber driver and the students.

'We are extremely disappointed in the behavior depicted in this video. No one should be treated with such disrespect.'

A spokesman for the national body of Croman's fraternity told Daily Mail Online: 'Tau Kappa Epsilon has begun our investigation into the video which allegedly contains one of our members. We are extremely disappointed by the individual's demeaning words.

'As an organization founded on the personal worth and character of the individual, our members come from a wide range of diverse backgrounds of race, creed, and orientation.

'At the conclusion of our swift, thorough investigation, we will handle the situation with appropriate action. Depending on the details of the investigation, this could include the expulsion of membership.'

All of his social media accounts have been taken down.

His father Steven Croman, is one of the most notorious names in New York real estate.

According to the New York Daily News hes been under investigation since 2014 for allegedly using illegal tactics to cast out residents from some of the rent-stabilized Manhattan properties owned by his company, 9300 Realty.

There is a group dedicated to campaigning against him: Croman Tenants' Alliance

The former student at the $45,000-a-year Columbia Prep school in New York launches into a foul-mouthed tirade after the driver turned down their fare. Police and the university are now looking into what happened

Since the video surfaced, Croman has released a different version of events. He told the student newspaper that the video 'shows one side of an argument I had with an Uber driver'. He says the driver made an anti-Semitic remarks and 'refused to pick me up on the basis of my religion'
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There are many dangers of diving in the deep - but this very friendly seal is not one of them.

Clinging to the photographer's flipper the curious creature seems desperate to make friends with the men diving off Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel.

The shot won British photographer Nick Blake a gold medal in the world's biggest underwater photography competition.

Playful: This snap, titled 'Hello Cheeky', of a curious seal off the coast of Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel, won Nick Blake a gold medal

Top prize in the underwaterphotography.com contest went to another Brit - Terry Steeley. The 46-year-old only took a camera underwater for the first time just over three years ago but the judges gave him top honours for his eclectic portfolio.

Among his award winning snaps were a lemon shark in the Bahamas and a diver swimming in a crystal clear lake in a Mexican cave.

More than 6,000 pictures were entered for the contest across 17 categories - from above water, to wrecks, sharks and even underwater fashion featuring models.

Website owner Tal Mor, who runs the competition, said: 'Winning here, or even just being placed, is Underwater Photography's most coveted accolade because it says you succeeded in the most competitive environment there is, against the top talent of the moment.

'We are so proud to be having a constant flow of new talent coming in.

'Our goal is and always have been to promote young talent and give them a stage to show off their photos and launch a career as underwater photographers.

'One of our medals is the reward for all the hard work they have put in chasing those great shots in far-flung destinations.

'Each of them was up against 6,339 entries to get placed this year.'

Force: Lemon sharks are known for their size and power and Terry Steeley captures both of those qualities in this dramatic photo

A clearfin Lizardfish devouring a Juvenile Acanthuridae fish, Indonesia, was captured by British photographer Luke Gordon

Chomp: The ultimate predator of the sea, a great white shark, emerges from the water with another creature gripped in its razor sharp teeth

Serene: These atmospheric shots of free divers swimming to the surface and towards the seabed were taken by Raoul Caprez and Paul Colley

Beautiful: British Photographer Terry Steeley won a silver medal for this photo of a man swimming in a crystal clear lake in Mexico

Speaking of Mr Steeley, he added: 'Terry's images stood out in multiple categories from Wide Angle to Macro and even fashion shots.

'His portfolio is diverse and impressive and we are proud to be presenting his images.'

Other entries came from all over the world, including Bulgaria, USA, France, Canada, Sweden, Germany and Thailand.

School: This spectacular photo of Indian Mackerel in the Red Sea helped Terry Steeley become underwater photography world champion

Graceful: South African Geo Cloete won a gold medal in the 'shots above the surface' category when he snapped a school of dolphins

Vogue: This unusual shot of an underwater model striking a pose on a ship wreck won Bulgarian Bronze Plamena Mileva a Bronze Medal

Strange: This odd look creature is a Nudibranchia sea slug and it was captured off the coast of Indonesia by Uwe Schmolke

Whales featured in some categories, with American Lauren Berger coming third in the wide angle natural light category with her beautiful picture of humpback whales in the Socorro islands off the coast of Mexico.

And fellow American Craig McInally won the wide angle marine life section with his shot of a baby humpback whale also in Mexico.

At the other end of the scale Michael Grebler came second in the wide angle divers category with three free divers posing under the ice in Canada and Bulgarian Plamena Mileva bagged bronze in the fashion section with a model shoot in Israel.

Flowing: This beautiful shot of the sun flowing through the waves of a woman's silk dress won a gold medal for Lucie Drlikova

Tiny: This box jellyfish was snapped off the coast of Sail Rock, in Thailand, and won a gold medal for Stefan Follows

Giant: This snap of a baby humpback whale swimming to the surface of the water as adults glide below him, was taken by Craig Mcinally

Tal added: 'This photography contest is the longest running and one of the most prestigious online.

'If you want to make a name for yourself this is the place to do it.

'Every January a panel of judges select the best images entered in our online photo Contest from the previous year.

Predator: A lemon shark patrolling the seas of the Bahamas, in the Caribbean, won Terry Steeley a gold medal in the over/under category

Crash: This atmospheric shot of the wreck of a Dakota DC3 passenger plane off the coast of Turkey won Mathieu Foulquie a silver medal

Micro-life: These ready to hatch cuttlefish off the coast of Mozambique were captured by a gold medal winning Swedish photographer

Chomp: A seal diving into the water off the South African coast bares its jaws and shows off its long whiskers, in this snap by Geo Cloete

'Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded for the top three from each category in order of merit

'Many other internationally acclaimed photographers have launched their photo careers here over the years.

'The judges comprise of industry professionals. They are unpaid, non-affiliated, and, of course, cannot enter themselves.'

Vicious: It would take someone brave to get this close to an American crocodile but Terry Steeley did just that in the Gulf of Mexico
France may be seen as the true connoisseurs of a fruity, full-bodied wine.

But the Gallic nation was usurped of its title as the world's largest wine producers and exporters by Italy on Sunday.

The 2015 figures from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine showed that France was closely followed by Spain, and then the U.S. and Argentina.

France has been dethroned as the world's largest wine producers and exporters by Italy after 2015 harvest figures were released

Italy produced 48.9 million hectoliters from the 2015 harvest, ahead of Frances 47.4 million.

French media expressed their anguish at being 'dethroned' by their neighbour, with Le Parisien newspaper writing: 'France falls from her pedestal. Some news is hard to swallow.'

It said France had been 'dethroned by Italy, teased by Chile and Argentina, and tormented by South Africa and California'.

The publication added that the French got through an average of 100 litres of wine per person in 1960. That figure had fallen to 42 litres in 2015.

Just a year ago, when the figures for 2014 were released, France were toasting a successful year after earning first place, having produced 46,804 million hectoliters.

France was the world's largest wine producer until 2011, when Italy moved into the lead.

In 2015, despite a slight increase from 46,804 to 47,373, France was still overtaken by Italy who produced nearly 49million hectoliters.
Teachers are demanding that schools stop promoting 'fundamental British values' over claims it could make children think other cultures are inferior.

The National Union of Teachers said telling children about the country's democracy, law and traditions could encourage 'cultural supremacy' and urged a new focus on 'international human rights' instead.

Under government guidelines, which are aimed at tackling extremism in the wake of the Trojan Horse scandal, children must be taught about being a British citizen as well as tolerance other faiths and lifestyles.

However, union leaders said the term was demeaning to other cultures 'particularly in the context of multicultural schools and the wider picture of migration'.

Delegates passed a motion in favour of campaigning to scrap it during the NUT annual conference in Brighton today.

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Teachers have rejected moves to teach 'British values' in schools over fears they are linked to colonialism

Christopher Denson, an NUT representative from Coventry, said: 'We need to fight to reject this notion of British values, to fight for notions of human values and human rights.

'We have to stand together across communities to bring down barriers, bring down borders, to say no to Islamophobia, no to anti-Semitism, no to fascism and any form of racism.'

The motion said that migrants make a 'huge economic, political and social contribution' to the country and that public services and businesses would 'face severe difficulties' without them.

It criticised the government for only taking in a 'minute fraction' of refugees and vowed to campaign for 'policies that welcome' them to the country.

The union agreed to 'gather and collate' teaching materials on migrants and refugees for members to use in classrooms from now on.

Mr Denson said he disliked using the term 'fundamental British values' in his classroom when many of his pupils had ancestry in countries which had encountered British colonialism.

He said: 'The inherent cultural supremacism in that term is both unnecessary and unacceptable.

'And seen with the Prevent agenda, it belies the most thinly veiled racism and a conscious effort to divide communities.'

He added: 'It's our duty to push real anti-racist work in all schools. And that doesn't mean talk of tolerating other's views, but genuine, inclusive anti-racist work.'

Jeremy Corbyn spoke at the NUT conference last week, which today rejected the 'British values' plans

He said he had requested a week of themed assemblies every year in his school, with topics including apartheid and the rise of Islamophobia 'in the context of anti-Semitism in the 1930s'.

'This year we focussed on the migrant crisis in Calais, the Mediterranean and beyond,' he added.

'We organised a politics day for Year 8s [aged 12 to 13] in the week before Easter.

'They had a day to form a political party in their tutor groups to come up with a manifesto, film a broadcast, and make banners and take part in a debate.

'Apart from the quality of the work, the other thing that really made my proud was that every single tutor group had as a policy, 'refugees welcome, open the borders'.

'We need to be pushing at every level for anti-racism to be in the core curriculum for every child.'

Many of the activists at the conference said they had been to migrant camps over the channel to take food and provisions.

Christine Blower, general secretary of the NUT said: 'Schools and teachers play a key role in welcoming migrant and refugee children and young people to this country, and supporting their progress within schools.

'The NUT condemns the Government's inadequate response to the current migrant situation, which has exacerbated the suffering for so many, including school-age children and young people.

'The NUT has produced a guide to Welcoming Refugee Children to your School and has a dedicated section on its website for teaching resources which have been provided by teachers for teachers, on the issue.

'The NUT will continue to work with Show Racism the Red Card, Hope Not Hate and others, to campaign for Government policies that welcome migrants and refugees to this country. The NUT will also continue to press for anti-racism work to be enshrined within the curriculum of all schools.'

The requirement on schools to teach fundamental British values was introduced in 2014 in a bid to crack down on extremism in schools.

Speakers at the conference said they were striving to teach children the positives of migration into Britain

It followed the Trojan Horse scandal, in which state schools in Birmingham were infiltrated by hardliners who tried to impose an Islamic agenda.

Ofsted, the schools regulator, has been penalising schools which do not sufficiently show that they are promoting British values.

Chris McGovern, of the Campaign for Real Education, said: 'Teachers should not be playing the role of fifth columnists in the ideological war currently being fought over our national identity and our national sovereignty.

'Teaching children that British values are part of "cultural supremacism" will, at best, make them feel guilty about being British and, at worst, radicalise them in order to 'make up' for the sins of their fathers.

'If one wishes to destroy a nation and build a "brave new world" you begin by indoctrinating and brainwashing the children.

'This process of 're-education' has started some years ago in our schools and we are, now, seeing its consequences in the suppression of free speech on our university campuses.

'The notion of 'value relativism' - that all views are equally valid - has reached saturation point in our schools.

'In many classrooms this has led to the views of terrorists being given equal weigh to those of the victim of terrorism. Against this background the latest motions from the NUT come as no surprise, at all.'
Coach has been 'deliberately' placed next to the conductor's office

The carriages will allow women and women travelling with children

A German train company will start operating women-only carriages, a move which has been met with controversy.

Several reports suggest that the new carriages, for women and women travelling with children, are a response to the sex-attacks in Cologne on New Years Eve, which was largely blamed on migrants.

Regiobahn line announced this week that the women-only carriages will be available for passengers travelling between Leipzig and Chemnitz.

Only girls allowed: Regiobahn line announced that the women-only carriage has been 'deliberately' placed next to the conductor's office (stock image)

The announcement has been a hot topic of conversation in Germany, with many questioning the reasoning behind introducing a women-only carriage, Breitbart reports.

The women-only carriage will be situated between the train's two 'quiet' coaches and next to the on-board 'customer service representative' - train conductor.

Regiobahn line said in a statement that 'the local proximity to the customer service representative is chosen deliberately'.

This comes just days after the first person was charged over a sexual offense in connection with the New Year's Eve attacks in Cologne.

Several reports suggest that the new carriages, for women and women travelling with children, are a response to the sex-attacks in Cologne on New Years Eve, which was largely blamed on migrants

A 26-year-old Algerian man has been charged with sexual assault and theft, Cologne regional court spokesman Volker Koehler said Thursday.

He's accused of being in a group of around ten men who surrounded and groped a woman in the central train station, and of stealing her cellphone.

No trial date has been set. The man's name wasn't given because of German privacy laws.

More than 1,000 criminal complaints were filed over the crimes in Cologne, and several hundred of those alleged sexual crimes. Three suspects already have been convicted of theft.
The number of elderly Japanese people turning to crime so that they can live for free in prison is soaring, according to a new study.

Around 35 per cent of shoplifting offences in Japan are carried out by people over the age of 60, crime figures show. This has risen from 20.4 per cent in 2005.

And these offences are often not isolated occurrences, as around 40 per cent of over-sixties who do re-offend have done so more than six times.

While there are special work programmes (pictured) for elderly Japanese people, many do not work and have little money to live off, so are turning to crime in the hope of being jailed

According to the Financial Times, a major factor driving the geriatric crime wave is old-age poverty.

And while there are special work programmes for elderly Japanese people, many do not work and have little money to live off.

A typical Japanese senior with low savings is living off 4,800 each year, according to a study on the economics of elderly crime by Michael Newman of Tokyo-based research house Custom Products Research.

'Hugging ones grandchildren is surely a better option than talking to them through a glass window. If you are in prison you are supposed to be old when you leave not when you enter it. Not so in Japan,' the study says.

Japan's strict judiciary system meaning even the theft of a sandwich can land a person in prison for two years - poorer seniors don't have to do much to earn themselves a stay behind bars, where food, accommodation and healthcare is free.

Japan's prison system is aware of the increase and capacity has been being increased in the country's prisons for a number of years.

The study's writers suggest investing more in caring for the elderly as a way of trying to keep the prosecution numbers - and so jail costs - down.

The population of Japan is ageing, with experts predicting that 40 per cent of people will be over 65 by 2060. The study's authors suggested caring more for the country's elderly - pictured, a senior's work centre - to try to bring prosecution numbers down

This has also put a strain on the country's prison system, as keeping people behind bars continues to be expensive.

And as 40 per cent of Japan's population is expected to be over 65 by 2060, if the crime figures keep rising the prison service will, the study said, find itself under huge strain.

According to the Ministry of Justice figures, the number of elderly inmates behind bars for re-offending six times has already climbed 240 per cent between 1991 and 2013.

Akio Doteuchi, a senior researcher on social development at the NLI Research Institute in Tokyo, told the Financial Times that he anticipated the numbers to keep rising.

'The social situation in Japan has forced the elderly into the need to commit crime,' he says.

'The ratio of people who receive public assistance is highest since the end of the war.
This is the moment an ISIS fighter apparently captures his own death on a GoPro video during a fierce gunfight.

Footage shows extremists firing machine guns at government troops from behind an armoured vehicle in Hama, in western Syria.

Seconds later the man filming collapses to his knees after being hit by a bullet fired by soldiers loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.

He lets out a cry as he falls to the ground.

Extremists firing machine guns at government troops while behind an armoured vehicle in Hama, Syria

After firing a few shots the ISIS group start to take cover as they come under attack

Another fighter falls against the armoured vehicle amid sustained gunfire in the video, thought to have been released to praise ISIS 'martyrs', the Sun reports.

The footage comes amid reports Syrian forces have strengthened their hold on Palmyra on Monday and pushed forward against ISIS after dealing it a major blow by retaking the ancient city.

The country's antiquities chief said the treasured monuments damaged by the jihadists could be restored in five years, but a UN expert cast doubt on the estimate.

Backed by Russia, pro-government fighters overran Palmyra on Sunday morning after nearly 10 months of IS rule.

President Bashar al-Assad hailed the victory as 'fresh proof of the efficiency of the Syrian army and its allies in fighting terrorism'.

Regime forces turned to nearby IS-held towns.

'The army was concentrated around Al-Qaryatain, and today the military operations began there,' a military source in Palmyra said Monday.

'That is the next goal for the Syrian army. They also have their eyes on Sukhnah' towards the northeast, the source told AFP.

The footage shows the men being hit by a volley of bullets as they fall to the ground

As his extremist friends are shot down, he is hit and begins to tumble to the floor

The final couple of seconds of the footage only shows the ground after the man has been shot dead

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said Sukhnah's capture would bring government forces to the gates of oil-rich Deir Ezzor province, an IS bastion.

IS overran Palmyra - a UNESCO world heritage site known as the 'Pearl of the Desert' - in May 2015 and used its ancient theatre for public executions as the world watched in horror.

The extremist group blew up temples and tower tombs, as part of it campaign against pre-Islamic monuments it considers blasphemous.
The Kremlin is braced for an expose on Vladimir Putin's alleged secret fortune, a senior Russian official has revealed.

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov, one of the president's closest aides, has dismissed the allegations as false and politically motivated before they have even been published.

He said a number of foreign secret services were behind the claims, which suggest that Mr Putin has amassed a secret personal fortune of more than 28billion ($40billion).

The extraordinary announcement comes after an embarrassing photo of Mr Peskov wearing red trousers and Ugg boots went viral, thrusting him into the middle of an unwanted social media storm.

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Embarrassing: Dmitry Peskov was photographed in red trousers and Ugg boots in a Moscow car wash

Internet sensation: The image has gone viral in Russia, and has been transformed into a number of memes

Fan favourite: The Russian aide was added to a famous meme of actor Keanu Reeves sitting on a park bench

Taken for a ride: Vladimir Putin and Mr Peskov are seen riding a horse in another of the memes posted online

The official today admitted he had been left embarrassed by the image, which was taken during a late-night visit to a Moscow car wash, but said 'we all lead ordinary lives as well'.

The photograph has sparked a number of mocking memes, including one that depicts Mr Peskov sitting on the back of a horse being ridden by a topless Mr Putin.

Turning his attention to the claims surrounding the president, Mr Peskov said the expose will claim he has amassed a secret fortune through corrupt channels and that the money is held by cronies.

The complex network is also said to involve offshore companies, the president's family and long-time friends.

Reporters behind the story also asked questions about oligarchs Arkady and Boris Rotenberg, and Yury Kovalchuk, who has been labelled Putin's 'personal banker', Mr Peskov said.

The team is understood to have been from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, a global network of more than 190 journalist who collaborate on in-depth investigative stories.

Mr Peskov said: 'It is about some offshore companies, a big number of businessmen who Putin has never met.'

Allegations: The expose will reportedly claim Putin has amassed a secret personal fortune of 28billion

He said similar accusations have been made 'in different variations, numerous times' and that 'another attack' will emerge in the 'coming days'.

The 'lies' would be published in a number of countries, inlcuding the UK, the US, Germany, France and Switzerland, he added.

Journalists and foreign diplomats have previously claimed Mr Putin had such a personal fortune, but this is the first time there has been a suggestion of evidence behind the allegations.

Mr Peskov continued: 'We have received quite impertinent requests, composed in a way reminiscent of an interrogation process, from an organisation that calls itself an international consortium of investigative journalists, comprised of reporters from various media sources.

'But we are certain that these are not only journalists, but also representatives of other organisations and services.'

The allegations involved 'organised crime and corruption, where all the same things are rephrased - the ties of Putin to businessmen, giving public contracts away to businessmen, enrichment of the businessmen at Putin's cost and so on,' he said.

'We are informing about it on purpose, to notify you about our opinion on such things.'

'There are so many questions to Putin. They repeat, "Is it true that your wealth is over $40 billion? Is it true that you own huge residences, mega-yachts and other assets?"'

The name also emerges of long time Putin friend Sergey Roldugin, a cellist, who is also godfather to the president's daughter Maria, and a shareholder in Bank Rossiya.

Mr Peskov said: 'It is said that Roldugin is running some business which has something to do with the president directly.' Roldugin's brother served with Putin in the KGB.

He added: 'I don't want to bore you with legal details, a huge number of various offshore companies is mentioned.
The late Harper Lee was no fan of Donald Trump's infamous Atlantic City gambling mecca, The Taj Mahal.

In fact, she considered the casino a veritable hell on earth.

Lee - the author of To Kill A Mockingbird who passed away on February 19 - wrote in a letter to a friend in August 1990 that she found the establishment to be despicable after a recent visit.

The letter is one of many recovered from the writer's longtime New York City apartment that will be sold separately at auction this week in Los Angeles, The New York Post reported.

'The worst punishment God can devise for this sinner is to make her spirit reside eternally at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City,' Harper Lee wrote of Donald Trump's casino in August 1990

The Trump Taj Mahal is one of the most prominent resort casinos in the ailing Atlantic City in New Jersey

The note, found inside Lee's East 82nd Street apartment, was written to her friend Doris Leapard in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and dated August 25, 1990.

'The worst punishment God can devise for this sinner is to make her spirit reside eternally at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City,' Lee wrote of the resort in the letter.

Most of the letters are typewritten, and are correspondence between Lee and Leapard, as well as Leapard's husband, Bill.

Each letter has a starting bid of $750, according to auctioneers at Nate D. Sanders in Los Angeles.

Online bids will be accepted from now until Thursday at 8 p.m. Eastern.

According to Bloomberg, Lee had a net worth of $35m, and Forbes estimated she stood to make $10m from her second novel. Pictured, Lee on June 30, 2015, her last public appearance at a book launch for Watchman

Harper Lee kept a small apartment in this building on Manhattan's costly Upper East Side - and renewed the astoundingly cheap lease, which was less than $1,000-a-month, for another two years just months ago

In another letter to Leapard, which wwas dated January 29, 1999, Lee was sending her thanks to her friend for getting her an autograph from Vivian Malone, one of the first black women to graduate from University of Alabama.

Lee said in the letter that younger people no longer recognize the accomplishments of civil rights pioneers like Malone.

'I shall treasure [the autograph] always. Looking back, it's incredible what people had to endure just for their basic rights,' she wrote.

'Today's young haven't a clue what their parents went through; they seem bored to hear about it.'

Shortly after her sister's death in 2014, her representative and attorney Tonja Carter found the manuscript to Go Set a Watchman, which Lee agreed to publish in 2015. She had previously held off on releasing another book for more than 50 years due to the pressure and publicity following her first hit

Earlier this month, Monroe County Probate Judge Greg Norris signed an order to seal Lee's will from public view.

Lawyers for Lee's personal representative and attorney, Tonja Carter, had asked for the will to remain private.

Lee's heirs and relatives agreed to the request, according to a court filing.

Lee, who was estimated to have a $45million fortune, never married or had children.

'As the Court is no doubt aware, Ms. Lee highly valued her privacy,' the lawyers wrote. 'She did not wish for her private financial affairs to be matters of public discussion.

'Ms. Lee left a considerable legacy for the public in her published works; it is not the public's business what private legacy she left for the beneficiaries of her will.'

Lee had been making about $3.2million a year, according to Bloomberg, and had an estimated net worth of $35million before the release of Go Set a Watchman.

When the controversial novel was released last July, Forbes estimated that Lee stood to earn $10 million from the book in 2015.

The website also cited legal papers filed against her former book agent, Sam Pinkus, that showed, in the first six months of 2009, Lee received $1,688,064.68 in royalties from To Kill A Mockingbird.

Estimating that as an average figure, the book royalties would equate to $3,376,129.36 per year, or $9,249 each day.
Parker allegedly confessed to his stepfather that he raped and smothered her, before pouring bleach on both of their bodies in to try to destroy DNA

Forensic pathologist said it was the 'worst case of sexual trauma she had seen in her career'

Autopsy found Shaylyn suffered severe sexual trauma and died from asphyxiation as she was beaten, raped, smothered and strangled

Judge ordered Parker to be held in the Owen County jail without bond

visited her home a dozen times and used to play with the child

Her uncle said he was a 'family

Shaylyn Ammerman (pictured), 14 months old, was found dead near a river in Indiana after vanishing from her father's home

An Indiana judge has ordered a 22-year-old man remain in jail without bond on charges that he raped and killed a 14-month-old toddler little girl who he kidnapped from her father's home.

Kyle Parker, 22, pleaded not guilty to charges of murder, kidnapping, rape, child molesting, aggravated battery, strangulation, obstruction of justice and failure to report a dead body in Shaylyn Ammerman's death via video link from the Owen County jail for his initial court hearing Monday afternoon.

Owen Circuit Judge Lori Thatcher Quillen appointed attorney Jacob Fish as Parker's public defender, The Associated Press reported.

Court documents say Parker was drinking whiskey with Shaylyn's uncle and took the girl from the Spencer home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived after family members had fallen asleep.

Charging documents say investigators questioned Parker after Shaylyn was reported missing Wednesday morning from the Spencer home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived.

The documents say Parker first denied involvement, but later directed police to the rural wooded location where her body was found Thursday night near the White River. His trial is currently set for August 10.

An autopsy found Shaylyn suffered severe sexual trauma and died from asphyxiation.

Forensic pathologist Dr. Donna Stewart, who specializes in pediatric autopsies involving sexual battery and molestation, said that the toddler's sexual assault was the 'worst case of sexual trauma she had seen in her career,' the affidavit said according to the Indianapolis Star.

She said Shaylyn was beaten, raped, smothered and strangled.

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Kyle Parker, (pictured) 22, was arrested on Thursday evening after Shaylyn's body was found near the White River, around nine miles from her home. He was charged with her murder and rape on Monday

Angry: Shaylyn's uncle, Adam Ammerman (pictured), was friends with Parker. He told reporters that he hoped the man would 'burn in Hell'

Shaylyn's grandmother, Tamera Morgan (pictured, with Shaylyn), says that Parker had visited the home around a dozen times, and that he 'talked kindly' and played with the toddler

Parker confessed to his stepfather that he raped and then smothered the toddler, before he poured bleach on both of their bodies in an attempt to destroy DNA, WLFI reported. He also reportedly told his stepfather that he burned Shaylyn's clothing and pacifier.

In addition, Parker reportedly told his stepfather that he acted alone in the horrific crime, but planned to try and confuse investigators by accusing one of her family members.

Friends of Parker told police that he was attracted to young girls and that he liked pornographic videos with sadistic and masochistic themes, WFTS reported

However, he reportedly denied those claims when he was interviewed by authorities.

Parker, who hasn't had a job since last year when he worked at a nursing and rehab center, was a 'family acquaintance' who visited the home a dozen times and used to play with the child.

Shaylyn Ammerman (pictured left with father Justin) was last seen just before midnight on Tuesday evening. Her mom, Jessica Stewart (right, with Shaylyn) said her former partner knew more than he was letting on

Shaylyn's uncle, Adam, said: 'He knew Shaylyn, he's played with her, he's taken care of her. He rocked her to sleep.'

He added: 'I knew Kyle through a friend of a friend and he was supposed to be one good friend, and then he turned around and does this to our family, and all I can say right now is I hope he burns in Hell.'

Parker was at the girl's father's home on Tuesday evening, Justin Ammerman told ABC 6.

The girl's father and grandmother, Justin Ammerman and Tamera Morgan, were the last people known to have seen her late Tuesday when she slept in her cot.

The child, who had earlier been put to bed by her father, Justin Ammerman, had disappeared by the following morning.

She had been staying at her father's home under a joint custody arrangement with the girl's mother.

Jessica Stewart confirmed her daughter had been found dead in a Facebook post Thursday evening

Justin Ammerson was the last person known to have seen the 14-month-old alive after he put her to bed

More than 100 people from several police departments and other agencies searched two days for Shaylyn until her body was found.

Owen County Sheriff Leonard Sam Hobbs said Friday that there are still many unanswered questions in the case.

The girl's father, who was subject to a police polygraph test earlier on Thursday, has denied claims he was having a party on the night of his daughter's apparent abduction.

But family members told the Herald-Times that Shaylyn's father, uncle, grandfather and a family friend - believed to be Parker - were up late drinking whiskey and watching television.

The gathering wound down at about 2am when the friend is said to have left the family home.

Justin Ammerman said the family went into 'panic mode' when they realized Shaylyn was missing the next morning.

Shaylyn's mother, Jessica Stewart, confirmed her daughter had been found dead in a heartbreaking Facebook post on Thursday evening.

'My babygirl Shaylyn is gone. They found her body tonight,' she wrote.

Stewart and Justin Ammerson shared custody of Shaylyn, who was spending the week with her father when she disappeared.

The child's mother earlier said her former partner knew more than he was letting on, saying she believed her daughter had been abducted.

'I don't know if he had anything to do with it but I think he knows something at the very least that he is afraid to say,' she told WTHR.

However Tamera Morgan, Shaylyn's grandmother, defended her son.

'He has nothing to do with her disappearance other than he is the father. He put her to sleep like anyone else would,' she said.

Anyone with information is urged to call Indiana State Police on (812) 332-4411.

Indiana State Police say they dont anticipate any additional arrests, but the investigation is still ongoing.
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About 150 people have taken part in a dissident republican rally in Londonderry to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising.

The annual event at the city cemetery organised by the 32 County Sovereignty Movement followed similar hard-line republican demonstrations in north Belfast, Lurgan in Co Armagh and Coalisland in Co Tyrone over recent days.

A number of bricks and one petrol bomb, which failed to explode, were hurled at police Land Rovers at the start of the event in Derry.

A number of bricks and one petrol bomb, which failed to explode, were hurled at police Land Rovers at the start of a dissident republican rally in Londonderry to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising, causing a clash

Men could be seen in clashes with the PSNI at the rally in Londonderry. The annual event at the city cemetery organised by the 32 County Sovereignty Movement followed similar hard-line republican demonstrations in north Belfast, Lurgan in Co Armagh and Coalisland in Co Tyrone over recent days

A PSNI officer at the scene where a wheelie bin was set on fire and left on the Dublin to Belfast railway line just after the rally today

At the outset, police vehicles had driven past the crowd displaying large signs warning the march from the Creggan area to the cemetery was unlawful as it had not received the necessary permissions from the Parades Commission.

A number of men in paramilitary style-clothing led the parade, accompanied by a band.

Inside the cemetery, a message from dissident prisoners held inside Maghaberry jail was among the statements read out to the crowd.

Members of protestant loyal order the Apprentice Boys of Derry parade through Lurgan. A number of men in paramilitary style-clothing led the parade, accompanied by a band

Members of the 32 County Sovereignty Movement salute in Creggan Cemetery. At the outset, police vehicles had driven past the crowd displaying large signs warning the march from the Creggan area to the cemetery was unlawful as it had not received the necessary permissions from the Parades Commission

While many Easter Rising parades organised by the mainstream republican movement in Northern Ireland proceeded with the necessary permissions, police have faced criticism for allowing the unlawful events to take place.

Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin said officers were investigating suspected breaches of parading laws and said any evidence would be presented to prosecutors.

'In policing all events over the Easter weekend, our over-riding desire is to ensure that commemorative occasions, parades and protests pass off lawfully and peacefully,' he said.

Members of the 32 Sovereignity Movement waved flags during the rally. Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Stephen Martin said officers were investigating suspected breaches of parading laws and said any evidence would be presented to prosecutors

'Our focus is on keeping communities safe and our job, with a few notable exceptions, has been made that much easier because of the responsible attitude of all parties concerned.'

Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster said she had raised 'deep concerns' with the police about the sight of masked men at some of the Easter Rising events.

'I want to see these people behind bars,' the Democratic Unionist leader tweeted.

'No place for masked men in Northern Ireland. Police assure me that evidence has been gathered.'
Brooklyn-born Bernie Sanders's campaign is going to give the Brooklyn-based Hillary Clinton campaign some trouble in New York eyeing the Empire State as a way to embarrass the Democratic frontrunner.

'Reports of our death are greatly exaggerated,' said Sanders' campaign manager Jeff Weaver today on a call with reporters as he articulated the strategy for what's next while the Clinton campaign, which has more delegates, tries to wind the Democratic primary down.

Pointing to the Empire State, Weaver called his candidate the 'voice of New York' and said the campaign planned to invest 'substantial time and resources' into the state, which holds its primary next month.

'We're the underdog at this point,' Weaver said, but clearly internal polling had things looking up, as a poll released earlier this month had Clinton 48 points up. 'Let me say this, we are less far behind in New York than many other states where we have won,' he noted.

The Sanders people are loudly demanding the next Democratic debate to be staged in the state, which twice elected Clinton to the U.S. Senate, while a Clinton aide appearing on CNN today suggested that that was not going to happen.

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Sen. Bernie Sanders is eyeing New York state both for its significant delegate count and because a win there could unseat the state's former senator Hillary Clinton

Bernie Sanders' campaign manager Jeff Weaver (pictured) said he couldn't imagine why Hillary Clinton wouldn't want to debate his candidate in New York, where she served as a U.S. senator

Hillary Clinton's chief strategist Joel Benenson said there would be not Democratic debate in New York state unless Bernie Sanders' changed his tone

Clinton's chief strategist Joel Benenson called out Sanders' 'tone' saying until his campaign became more positive again, and stopped running negative ads against the former secretary of state, there would be no Democratic debate in the state.

'There's not risk, she's done very well in the debate,' Benenson replied to CNN's Kate Boldaun, who wanted to know why the Clinton campaign was dragging its feet.

'Sen. Sanders doesn't get to decide when we debate, particularly when he's running a very negative campaign against us,' Benenson told the anchor. 'Let's see if he goes back to the kind of tone he said he was going to set early on. If he goes that, then we'll talk about the debate.'

The Washington Post reported yesterday that Sanders planned to sharpen his attacks against Clinton and 'barnstorm' the Empire State, as if he was running for governor.

Over on the Sanders call, Weaver acted miffed at the Clinton campaign's resistance.

He reminded reporters that when Clinton was down in New Hampshire, the Sanders campaign agreed to debate her once more, in exchange for more debates down the road.

'We agreed to do a very late scheduled debate in New Hampshire when the secretary was down considerably in the polls,' Weaver said, explaining that the Sanders people had been promised three more debates with one, in Michigan, a state that Sanders easily won, already taking place.

'Again. we hope that the Clinton campaign will relent that they will let the people in a state that twice elected the secretary to the U.S. Senate to have the opportunity to see a one-on-one debate between Sen. Sanders and the secretary,' Weaver said.

'It is difficult for us to understand the motivation of why they would not want that to happen  why they would want to prevent the people from New York from having that opportunity,' Weaver mused.

'So we're going to continue to press on that,' Weaver added.

Political consultant Tad Devine, who is working for the Sanders campaign, partially addressed Benenson's concern about tone, saying the rhetoric throughout the remainder of the Democratic primary would not get 'so nasty that we're not able to put the party back together.'

'These are legitimate and real differences on issues, but I don't believe that these issue differences, which are being litigated and should be litigated, in any way will lead to the kind of divisiveness and petty name-calling and absolutely ridiculous campaigning that we're seeing on the Republican side,' Devine said.

'I don't think we will ever see that on our side and I know we will never see it from Bernie,' Devine added.

Sanders, appearing on the Sunday shows yesterday, said he indeed saw a path to the nomination on the heels of his trio of wins in Hawaii, Alaska and Washington state.
The vessel, made of fiberglass, later sank into the ocean

Agents arrested four people onboard and 5.5 tons of cocaine was seized

The sub, used by drug traffickers, was then seized off the coast of Panama on March 3 by a Northern California U.S. Coast Guard crew

A long-range surveillance aircraft from Corpus Christi, Texas, detected the mini-submarine in the 'Eastern Pacific Ocean' on March 2, officials said

Footage has emerged of the moment a California Coast Guard crew intercepted a mini-submarine carrying 6 tons of cocaine worth $200 million.

Officials say that Customs and Border Protection agents based in Corpus Christi, Texas, in a long-range surveillance aircraft first spotted the semi-submersible vessel on March 2 in the 'Eastern Pacific Ocean'.

They then alerted the crew off the Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf from Alameda, California, who located the 300 miles southwest of Panama on March 3.

In the footage of the sub being intercepted - released Monday - four men can be seen standing atop the boat with their hands in the air.

Inside the sub was more than 12,800 pounds of cocaine worth more than $203 million and a loaded gun, The LA Times reported.

Got them: Authorities (pictured near the mini-sub) intercepted the semi-submersible vessel attempting to bring 12,800 pounds or 5.5 tons of cocaine into the US. Four people onboard tried to flee but were captured

The crew operating the vessel attempted to flee as officials approached them. A Northern California U.S. Coast Guard crew (pictured) arrested four people and seized the cocaine

Here the agents open the hatch to the mini-sub, showing some of the bags of cocaine that were stashed inside

Since June, 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard has intercepted five submarine-like vessels, which are mostly submerged, with just the cockpit and the exhaust pipe visible above water.

Traffickers have increasingly been using the semi-submersible boats to move large amounts of cocaine because their low waterline profile makes them difficult to detect.

"SPSS interdictions are inherently dangerous, yet we persevere to disrupt the funding sources of illicit organizations causing violence and instability in Central America," said Capt. Laura Collins, commanding officer of the Cutter Bertholf.

The U.S. Coast Guard often assists in drugs seizures in the Eastern Pacific along with other U.S. law enforcement agencies.

A Washington-based Coast Guard crew in January intercepted a semi-submersible submarine off the Mexican-Guatemalan border. The suspects in that case scuttled the smuggling vessel but were apprehended.

The cocaine was on a mini-sub called a narco-submarine, which are vessels made of fiberglass that are extremely hard to detect using radar and are commonly used by drug traffickers.

Because much of its structure is made of fiberglass and it travels mainly below the water' surface, it is virtually impossible to detect via sonar or radar.

These vessels can carry a crew of at least four and dive down at least 30 feet below the surface.

A vessels design depends on how far they can travel. A mini-sub with two diesel engines, and sophisticated navigational equipment could travel long distances up to 2,000 miles at a speed of up to 11 miles per hour, according to IndraStra.

A team of U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents based in Corpus Christi, Texas, detected the self-propelled vessel earlier this month while conducting counter narcotics operations using a P-3 Long Range Tracker, according to their website.

In the video, the crew operating the vessel attempted to flee as officials approached them.

Moments later, the sub, which officials said originated in the 'Eastern Pacific Ocean', became unstable and sank to the ocean floor

Agents arrested four people and attempted to seize the cocaine.

But moments later, the sub, which officials said originated in the 'Eastern Pacific Ocean', became unstable and it and the cocaine sank to the ocean floor.

The task force coordinated an interdiction of the semi-submersible with a U.S. Coast Guard vessel in the area while an Air and Marines Operations crew maintained constant visual surveillance.

The semi-submersible became unstable and sank.

'This type of cooperation and teamwork produces these kinds of results where suspects are arrested and narcotics prevented from reaching U.S. shores,' said Director John Wassong at the National Air Security Operations Center - Corpus Christi.

'Our crews will continue to take every opportunity to disrupt this type of transnational criminal activity.'

It's unclear where the mini submarine came from or how it came to be in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

Authorities said the submarine used is one that is common among drug traffickers. Pictured a narco-submarine moments before interception by the U.S. Coast Guard in August 2007 (file image)

In the 2015 fiscal year, US Customs and Border Protection aircrews contributed to seizure of 213,000 pounds of cocaine. Pictured is the US Coast Guard detaining personnel aboard a self-propelled semi-submersible (SPSS) captured in the Eastern Pacific off the coast of Central America in 2009 (file image)

In the 2015 fiscal year, US Customs and Border Protection aircrews contributed to 198 seizure, disruption, or interdiction events in the transit zone, resulting in the interdiction of 213,000 pounds of cocaine in the 42-million-square-mile area they patrol.

The Coast Guard caught a similar vessel carrying 12,000 pounds of cocaine off the coast of Central America in August and have previously intercepted almost 43,000 pounds at once, according to ABC News.
The visitor center's underground entrance was built to provide greater security after two officers were shot and killed in the building in 1998

White House was briefly placed on lockdown but that was soon lifted

Meanwhile the Obamas are hosting the Easter Egg Roll just meters away

The 66-year-old was taken to hospital for surgery. A bystander was hit by police officer's shrapnel

Dawson was shot by officers when he produced the weapon as it triggered the metal detectors

He was arrested after shouting Bible verses and yelling 'I am a prophet of God' from the House's balcony

Dawson, of Antioch, Tennessee was banned from entering the Capitol building after he disrupted Congress last October

Visitors were seen screaming and running from the building

The incident at just before 3 pm Eastern Time came a few hours after a scheduled active shooter drill in the building

Pastor Larry Russell Dawson was gunned down by police after he pulled a gun at the Capitol's visitor center

A Tennessee pastor has pulled a gun in the Capitol just months after he was banned from the building for disrupting Congress by yelling that he was a 'prophet of God.'

Larry Russell Dawson was shot by police when he produced the weapon after it triggered metal detectors at the Capitol's visitor center - hours after an active shooter drill in the government building.

The 66-year-old, who has been taken to hospital where he remains in a 'stable but critical condition', was gunned down before he was able to fire the gun shortly before 3pm today. A female visitor was hit by shrapnel from the police's gunfire.

He has now been charged with assault with a deadly weapon and assault on a police officer while armed, authorities told DailyMail.com.

Dawson, a married pastor at St Luke's Spiritual Church in Antioch, Nashville, had been banned from entering the Capitol building after an incident last year.

In October, he was arrested in the US Capitol for disrupting Congress by yelling 'I am a prophet of God' from the balcony of the House of Representatives.

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Larry Russell Dawson, of Antioch, Tennessee, was arrested after he pulled a gun on in the Capitol's visitor center - just hours after an active shooter drill in the government building

Dawson (who is off-scree) was arrested in the US Capitol last October for yelling 'I am a prophet of God' from the balcony of the House of Representatives

Visitors run from the US Capitol building after shots were fired at around 3pm on Easter Monday

Two students hug after being evacuated from the building, apparently with a school group

Crowds of visitors swarmed around outdoors as police stand guard once the shooter had been detained

According to court documents Dawson, who also shouted bible verses was removed from gallery but but attempted to flee from police.

He was charged with assaulting a police officer during his arrest and unlawful conduct at the Capitol, the Daily Beast reports.

Dawson was slapped with a Stay Away Order - which barred him from entering the U.S. Capitol building, grounds and all Congressional buildings, NBC Washington reports.

The pastor has previously visited Washington on a number of occasions to call for a higher minimum wage as part of his church's Movement.

Today's incident began at around 2.40pm when Dawson tried to walk through the metal detector of the visitor center and set the bleepers off.

In response, he pulled a 'pellet gun' according to some reports, and pointed it at a screener - but was immediately shot and wounded by police.

Lone gunman Dawson was stretchered to an ambulance after being shot by police, and transported to hospital

A female bystander, who was struck by bullet fragments when Dawson was shot, was also transported to the hospital

An officer stands guard as the US Capitol is secured after a visitor opened fire in the visitor center on Monday

The government building (pictured after the shooting) is just meters away from the White House

Dawson was taken to hospital for surgery and police said this evening he remains in a stable but critical condition.

He will be presented to the District of Columbia Superior Court once he is discharged.

Officers have also seized his car which was found nearby the Capitol building and is due to be searched.

The shooting sparked confusion at the Capitol building as reports came soon after a scheduled active shooter drill, which staff had been notified about via email.

Video posted on Instagram shows crowds running and screaming after the gunshots sounded. Many were shoe-less, having just taken them off to go through the security barrier.

Capitol Police told DailyMail.com that the Capitol was in lock-down for around an hour after the shooting.

Chief Verderosa praised the 'heroic and quick actions of the officers involved' in the incident.

'They performed their jobs flawlessly and I am thankful to have these officers as members of the USCP protecting our nation's greatest symbol of democracy,' he added.

Verderosa added that security would be back to business as usual by tomorrow.

'I want to assure the American public and all visitors to the United States Capitol that the USCP continues to proudly and professionally protect the Capitol, CVC, and all other Congressional Buildings,' he said. 'We expect regular order of business by tomorrow morning at the CVC.'

There was confusion as the shooting came soon after a scheduled active shooter drill in the building

A member of the uniformed Secret Service walks near the press briefing room and the North Lawn of the White House minutes after. The White House was briefly placed on lockdown before the suspect was detained

Officers stand guard after crowds fled screaming from the US Capitol underground security entrance (right)

One visitor, Cathryn Leff from California, described crowds running and screaming after gunshots sounded as she was walking through security

Leff described a chaotic scene unfolding. It took place while Congress was on recess for the holiday

On Monday, visitor Cathryn Leff, who came to D.C. from California for the holiday, tweeted: 'Was at the #Visitor's Center... shots heard while going through #security it was a scramble... #Capitol #Evacuated after hiding behind wall.'

She added: 'That moment when it goes down ..everyone is screaming & running and you can't see where the #shotsfired are from.'

An email was sent to workers describing the 'potential security threat'.

The email added: 'If you are outside, seek cover.'

Meanwhile, the President and First Lady were hosting 35,000 people - including Beyonce, Jay Z, Shaquille O'Neal, and Idina Menzel - at the White House Easter Egg Roll just a few hundred meters away.

The underground visitor center of the Capitol building was created to provide greater security after two police officers, Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson, were shot dead by a visitor in 1998.

Visitors enter through a metal detector and bag check.

Part of the building's security measures involve exercise drills.

Indeed, staff received an email at 8am on Monday morning alerting them that they would be doing an active shooter drill.

The email read in part: 'This is a Shelter-in-Place EXERCISE message from the USCP. (...) Exercise, Exercise. SHELTER IN PLACE. Gunshots have been reported on Capitol Hill requiring staff and visitors in the US Capitol Building to immediately shelter in place.'

The exercise drill email also featured a bullet-point list, saying the building was locked down and staff outside should seek cover.

It concluded 'THIS IS A DRILL. EXERCISE EXERCISE.'

But just hours later, staff received that same bullet-point list, causing some confusion.

The underground visitor center of the building was created for greater security after two officers, Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson, were shot dead in 1998. Visitors enter through a metal detector and bag check

Meanwhile the president was hosting the White House's annual Easter Egg Roll just meters away

Around 35,000 people were at the White House for the event as the US Capitol was locked down

This map shows the proximity of the White House to the US Capitol, just the other side of the National Mall

The event unfolded with Congress on recess and lawmakers back in their districts. The White House was briefly put on lockdown, but that was soon lifted.

Visitors were being turned away from the Capitol as emergency vehicles flooded the street and the plaza on the building's eastern side.

Police, some carrying long guns, cordoned off the streets immediately around the building, which were thick with tourists visiting for spring holidays and the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Traffic was jammed in the vicinity, but despite the obvious emergency the scene was relatively calm.

A work crew on the north side of the Supreme Court, across the street, was asked to stop work and move away from the building as a precaution.
It's been beloved by children since 1984.

And now classic TV-series Thomas the Tank Engine is set for a revamp, with fourteen new engines introduced to give the show a multicultural edge.

The new characters will come from all over the world, including India and Brazil, and will be introduced to fans in a film called 'The Great Race' which is being released later this year, reported the New York Times.

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Thomas the Tank Engine will make friends from different cultures in his next adventure, including Ashima (left)

Four of Thomas's new companions will also be female.

They include Ashima of India, a female companion who is described as 'fearless' and 'happy to help out'.

Mattel were at pains to state that she would not be a romantic love-interest for Thomas as a love-plot wouldn't suit their demographic audience.

Yong Bao from China (left) and Carlos of Mexico (right) will also help make up the set in the 'Great Race', set to be released in May

Raul from Brazil is described by Thomas and Friends animatorrs as 'feisty, strong and agile'

Other characters introduced will include Raul from Brazil, who is described as 'feisty, strong and agile', and Yong Bao from China, who is 'driven to achieve and make progress'.

The characters are a far cry from the original set who made up Thomas The Tank Engine and Friends back in 1984.

They included Thomas, Henry, Gordon and James - and the first female to enter the set, Emily, didn't make her first appearance until the early noughties, although Thomas' two compartments Annie and Clarabel are both women.

Ashima's Indian heritage can be seen in the colourful displays on her engine. Four of Thomas' new pals will be female

The new friends are very different to the ones Thomas originally had at the start of the hit series, including Percy (right), James and Gordon

The franchise is one of the biggest of all time, and is adored by both children and adults.

Toy giant Mattel bought Hit Entertainment, which owns the franchise, in 2012 for $680million.

Vincent DAlleva, who oversees Thomas And Friends, said that they had been influenced to introduce new characters by the Rio de Janeiro Olympics that take place later this year, and that each character has a specific colour palate and personality reminiscent of its country's culture.
It was initially reported that the two were engaged

James Cain, the former U.S. ambassador to Denmark, revealed on the Today show Monday that his daughter

The daughter of the former U.S. ambassador to Denmark has revealed that she was secretly married to one of the Brussels terrorist attack victims.

Dutch national Alexander Pinczowski and his sister Sascha were killed in Tuesday's bombing at Brussels Airport while trying to catch a flight back to New York where they lived.

It was initially reported that Alex was engaged to Cameron Cain, daughter of former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark James Cain.

But in an appearance on the Today show on Monday, the former ambassador revealed that his daughter had actually been married for the past two years.

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Secret marriage: Brussels bombing victim Alexander Pinczowski secretly married Cameron Cain, the daughter of the former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark, two years ago, it has been revealed. The couple pictured above in Greece in 2015

Eloped: Former Ambassador Cain revealed the secret marriage in an interview with the Today show Monday morning

'The bright spot of the week was that Cameron told us Tuesday night, as she was huddled with us in her apartment in New York, that, in fact, two years ago she and Alex...had gotten married actually in New York,' Cain said.

Sister: Alexander's sister Sascha, 26 (pictured), was also killed in the bombings

Alex and Cameron met six years ago while the two were taking summer courses in Durham, North Carolina.

It's unclear why the two kept their marriage a secret from their respective families.

Cain says he and his daughter are currently in the Netherlands, where Alex's parents live, planning the siblings' funeral which will take place later this week.

The siblings were on the phone to their mother when the first explosions went off Tuesday morning, and then the line went dead.

In his interview on the Today show, Cain remembered his son-in-law as a 'brilliant young man' with a 'wonderful gentle side'.

'He was a wonderful young man - brilliant. I've said that before. He had an incredible mind, just an incredible ability to recall detail,' Cain said.

Cain remembers a trip the family took last year to Scotland for a reunion at a castle.

At the end of the day, Cain says Alex sneaked back into the castle and convinced the staff to let him have the castle's flag so that he could present it as a birthday gift to Cameron's grandmother.

At the time of his death, Alex was returning from the Netherlands where he was working on a craft-related business he and Cameron were starting together.

His sister Sascha, 26, graduated last year from Marymount Manhattan College with a business degree and had been splitting her time between Europe and America.
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Pushing towards a food truck with their arms outstretched, this photograph captures the desperation of migrants stranded in northern Macedonia.

Dozens of people reached over each other as they scrambled for food parcels being handed out by volunteers at a transit centre near the village of Tabanovce, on the Serbian border.

More than 1,000 refugees and migrants remain in camps in the area after a string of countries shut their borders earlier this month, cutting off the busiest migrant route between Greece and central and northern Europe.

Meanwhile, thousands of others have been left stranded on the Greek side of the Macedonian border, prompting fresh protests today. The closure of the border, combined with the Turkey deal that shut off the southern routes, have filled the migrants with more desperation than ever.

Desperate: Dozens of migrants reach over each other as they scramble for food parcels at a centre near the Macedonia-Serbia border

Struggle: An elderly woman pushes towards the edge of the crowd after grabbing one of the bags being handed out by aid workers

Stranded: A young boy passes a fire started using cardboard boxes at a centre for refugees near the Macedonian village of Tabanovce

Glimmer of normality: Two boys play catch with a ball on a railway track near the sealed border between Macedonia and Serbia

Helpless: A young girl walks between tents in the camp, which is home to migrants who cannot continue the journey into Europe

Uncertain future: A group of children play with balls on railway tracks leading towards the border, one of the main routes for migrants

Battle for survival: A woman walks past a stretch of fence being used as a makeshift washing line in the crowded transit centre

Greece's government is appealing to volunteers and aid groups working with desperate refugees on the border to make sure the migrants don't get misinformation like reports that led hundreds to leave a refugee camp on a failed, hours-long trek to try to enter Macedonia.

Migration affairs spokesman Giorgos Kyritsis said the government was trying to communicate directly with refugees in the Idomeni camp on Greece's northern border and was sending in a team of interpreters.

The move comes after refugees said activists in Idomeni had been urging people to march on the Macedonian border this weekend, saying it would be reopened.

Yesterday some 250 people of all ages conveyed a message of peace as they gathered by the railway tracks and the border fence, singing and shouting slogans while they were watched by Greek police in riot gear.

Many elderly handicapped refugees were sitting in wheelchairs sobbing while many other people, who had dismantled their tents in order to be ready to cross the border quickly, were waving white handkerchiefs.

'No violence, we just want to cross,' read one banner, while another said: 'Freedom of movement is everybody's right.'

Protest: Dozens of migrants block a highway in northern Greece which leads to the crossing of Evzoni on the Macedonian border

Outraged: Migrants have been left stranded in Greece after a decision to shut the Macedonian border, blocking the route to Europe

Vulnerable: Women and children look on as men gather on main roads to protest the closure of the Greece-Macedonia border

Tense: Riots erupted over the weekend after a rumour spread that the border would be reopened. Pictured, migrants in Greece today

Trapped: Migrants who have entered Greece have found themselves unable to continue their journey to Europe. Pictured, Greece today

Some in the crowd, however, attempted to move towards the police line but were blocked by others who formed a human chain.

However, arguments did erupt within the crowd when Syrians and Iraqis accused the Afghans and Pakistanis of wanting to push their way through, one witness said.

The wave of new arrivals appeared to be triggered by a rumour that journalists and Red Cross officials would help them force their way across the fence into Macedonia, a young Syrian refugee said.

He said: 'We heard today that the border will open and we came here to cross. They told us the Red Cross and 500 journalists from all over the world will be with us.

Squalid: Children eat scraps of bread around a makeshift fire in a camp near the Greek village of Idomeni, near the Greek-Macedonia border

Filthy: A young girl looks out from a railway carriage at a train station near the Idomeni camp, which is over-crowded and dirty

Winter chill: Young boys clamber over a stack of firewood delivered by a humanitarian organisation as he collects material needed for fire

Camp: A child stands amid rubbish and discarded clothing outside a small tent in a field near the Greece-Macedonia border

Exhausted: A man cradles his infant child to his chest as he makes his way between the tents of the Idomeni refugee camp in Greece

Another young Syrian said his sister, who is living in Germany, had seen the same claim on the Internet and alerted him.

Qasim Mosawy, from Afghanistan, said: 'People have been here for a long time. I think it's very dangerous to cross, especially for the children but what should we do?'

Dozens of other migrants could be seen heading through the fields, carrying babies, towards the Idomeni crossing.

'We are trying to step up our information campaign to the refugees. Some people, for reasons we don't understand, are creating false hope,' said Giorgos Kyritsis, spokesman for the SOMP agency which is coordinating Athens' response to the refugee crisis.

Using loudspeakers, Greek officials told those gathering that the crossing would remain closed, repeating the message in both Arabic and Farsi, ANA said.

Queues: Migrants line the dirt path as they wait for food parcels being handed out at the squalid Idomeni camp in northern Greece

Keeping warm: A man sits on a makeshift bench as he warms his hands over a small fire in the overcrowded Idomeni camp

Perilous journey: Despite the border closures, hundreds of migrants are continuing to cross from Greece to Macedonia

Rest: An elderly couple lie on a railway track at the makeshift camp at Idomeni, near the Greek border with Macedonia
A Times Square Spider-Man accused of kicking a tourist who denied him a tip showed up in court wearing his costume.

Abdelamine el-Khezzani, 37, kept on his red and blue leotard during his arraignment at Manhattan Criminal Court on Sunday, the New York Post reported.

He is accused of kicking a woman from Virginia who refused to tip him after posing for a photo with el-Khezzani and her family on Saturday.

The judge warned el-Khezzani, who is involved in another case regarding a brawl with a comedy ticket-seller a few months ago, that he wouldn't get out if he got arrested again.

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Abdelamine el-Khezzani, 37, kept on his red and blue leotard during his arraignment at Manhattan Criminal Court on Sunday (pictured)

'Have you heard the expression "Three strikes and you're out"?' Justice Laura Ward asked according to the New York Post.

'If you come to the plate and you strike out a third time, youre out,' she added. 'This is your second time at bat.'

Ward told el-Khezzani that if he got involved in another case, she would set his bail so high he wouldn't be able to get out, the New York Post wrote.

El-Khezzani said he explained to Rodney Merrill, 55, and his wife Margaretta Patman, of McLean, Virginia, that he worked for tips.

But according to el-Khezzani, Merrill pointed to Patman after posing for a photo with their four children on Saturday and Patman said she didn't have any money.

Police said el-Khezzani kicked Patman when she told him she didn't have cash.

But el-Khezzani, who has pleaded not guilty to assault charges, denies this.

El-Khezzani, pictured posing in his costume outside of court on Sunday, pleaded not guilty to assault charges. Police said he kicked a tourist who refused to give him a tip after posing for a photo with him on Saturday

The Spider-Man impersonator (right) denies that and says the tourist's husband, Rodney Merrill (left), 55, hit him first with an uppercut to the neck

He said he told her she had lied about tipping him, prompting an argument with Merrill.

El-Khezzani said Merrill hit him first with an uppercut to the neck.

According to this account, el-Khezzani called the police, who found the family at a nearby McDonald's.

There, they claimed el-Khezzani had kicked Patman, el-Khezzani said.

Jose Escalona, 42, who was working nearby as Batman, caught the scene on camera and showed it to the New York Post.

According to the newspaper, el-Khezzani threw 'phantom punches' that didn't land during his argument with Merrill, then climbed up a light pole and said: 'Justice is served! I got him!'

Police arrested both Merrill and el-Khezzani on assault charges. Merrill received a desk-appearance ticket and has been released.
Bill Cosby accusers have slammed a museum's plan to include the disgraced comedian's work in an exhibition, without mentioning the allegations of sexual assault.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C. has proposed to recognize the shamed celebrity's work in I Spy and The Cosby Show, and his support of black Hollywood stuntmen.

Curators at the museum, which will open on the Mall in September, said that they felt his achievements should stand alone, the New York Times reported.

Several of Bill Cosby's accusers have slammed the The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C's (pictured) plan to include the disgraced comedian's work in an exhibition, without mentioning the allegations of sexual assault. It is set to open on the Mall in September

But some of the 50 women who have publicly accused him of molesting them claim the 78-year-old should not be celebrated.

Cosby is best known for his role as the father in the 1980s television hit The Cosby Show, of raping them, often after plying them with alcohol or drugs, in incidents dating back decades.

The claims span experiences from the 1960s all the way to 2008, when Chloe Gains, 24, said the embattled film star spiked her drink during a party at the Playboy mansion.

Most of the alleged crimes date too far back to be prosecuted.

But just days before the statute of limitations was to expire, Pennsylvania officials late last year charged Cosby with sexually assaulting Constand in 2005.

Seven women have also filed a defamation lawsuit against him, saying he sexually assaulted them decades ago.

Patricia Leary Steuer, 59, who says Cosby drugged her in an Atlantic City hotel suite, was one of the alleged victims who condemned the museum's decision.

She told the Times: 'If they just speak about the contributions, there will be this enormous presence that is not talked about.'

Kristina Ruehli, another woman who has accused Cosby of assault, said if the curators did include him, they should mention the accusations.

Beth Ferrier, who also says Cosby attacked her, agreed: 'A label is the only way I would agree to it,' she said. 'We've been labeled.'

Curators at the museum, which will open on the Mall in September, said that they felt Cosby's (pictured going into a Pennsylvania court in December, 2015) achievements should stand alone. But some of the 50 women who have publicly accused the shamed celebrit, 78, of molesting them claim he should not be celebrated

Lonnie G. Bunch, the museum's director, told the Times he wants to strike a balance - showing personal suffering and acts of oppression alongside achievements.

However he admits he is not going to make everyone happy.

The Smithsonian Institution faced questions last year when its National Museum of African Art featured works on loan from the substantial art collection of Mr. Cosby and his wife, Camille.

They eventually put up a sign telling visitors that the museum did not condone the behavior of which Cosby is accused.
The estate of a toddler, who was allegedly starved to death by her father in a killing linked to a cult, is suing the Georgia hotel where she was being kept.

Police say Alcenti McIntosh had been locked in a room at the Extended Stay in Peachtree Corners with her mother and three other children under five.

Authorities believe the 15-month-old was deliberately starved by Calvin McIntosh, 44, allegedly a member of cult called the Nuwabian Nation of Moors, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Calvin McIntosh and his daughter Najilaa, who bore two of his children, are facing murder and child cruelty charges in connection with the toddler's death

Now, the toddlers estate has filed a lawsuit accusing the hotel of negligence, claiming it knew or through the exercise of reasonable care should have known the child was being harmed.

According to the lawsuit, she was born in a hotel room there with six others and confined there with six others her entire life.

The suits, which asks for an unspecified amount of damages, names Extended Stay America, three staff members, and the childs father as defendants, the Journal-Constitution reports.

In November 2014, McIntosh reportedly took the girl to the hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead on arrival. She was emaciated and weighed just 7.5 pounds.

The toddler's estate is suing Extended Stay America for negligence,claiming it knew or through the exercise of reasonable care should have known the child was being harmed

McIntosh, who is allegedly a member of the if they were Nuwaubian Nation of Moors, reportedly ordered his adult daughter to withhold food from the other occupants of the hotel room

Investigators went to the hotel, where they found McIntoshs daughter Iasia Sweeting, who he fathered the girl with.

At the age of 21 weighed just 59 pounds, and three other children, between the ages of three and five, in the room were also found emaciated.

McIntoshs other adult daughter Najilaa, who bore two of the children with her father, was reportedly ordered to withhold food from the others if they were disobedient.

Alicents death was found to be due to starvation, but the others all survived.

During their search, investigators found notes about the Nuwaubian Nation of Moors, a cult which mixes ideas of black supremacy with worship of Egyptians and the pyramids.

Members also suggest that white people are the devil. Calvin and Najlaa Mcintosh are in the Gwinnett County jail awaiting trial.

McIntosh and Najilla are now facing multiple charges in connection with Alcentis death, including murder and child cruelty.

He is also charged with multiple counts of incest, rape and sodomy. Both have been indicted, but no trial dates have been set.

Daily Mail Online was not able to immediately reach Extended Stay America for comment.
Nigella Lawson, 56, and Sir Salman Rushdie, 68, have been close for more than two decades, with Salman supporting Nigella during her traumatic split from Charles Saatchi.

But on this occasion, as my pictures show, it was Nigellas turn to comfort the novelist as the pair caught up over dinner at Locanda Locatelli in West London.

The author of Midnights Children has found himself in the marital firing line this month after his former wife Padma Lakshmi wrote a deeply unflattering memoir about their eight-year relationship.

Lakshmi claims she had to console poor Sir Salman every year he didnt win the Nobel Prize for literature and that her struggles with endometriosis, a condition affecting the lining of the womb, led him to call her a bad investment. Lets hope Nigella was able to soothe his soul.

Getting close: Nigella Lawson spotted leaving Locanda Locatelli restaurant with her old friend Salman Rushdie

Nigella was back for the BBC last year for a series of shows in the run up to Christmas

Rushdie's former wife Padma Lakshmi wrote a deeply unflattering memoir about their eight-year relationship

Salman supported Nigella during her traumatic split from art dealer Charles Saatchi

Rushdie, the author of Midnights Children, has found himself in the marital firing line this month

Parting ways: Nigella appears to comfort the novelist as the pair caught up over dinner in West London

Salman Rushdie and his former wife Padma Lakshmi (left) and Nigella with her ex-Charles Saatchi (right)

Looks like Lily's girl's got her fashion sense

The 28-year-old doll-faced model Lily Cole seems intent on handing her wacky fashion baton to the next generation.

In a picture shared on her social media on Saturday, Lily poses at the seaside (right), cradling her seven-month-old daughter Wylde, who wears a grey jumper with a white bunny  complete with a tail that sticks out  green patterned trousers and a colourful scarf on her head.

Before she became a mother, Lily graced catwalks around the world to model some very outlandish outfits, including, on one occasion, a leather pirate costume made by Jean Paul Gaultier.

Lily Cole and seven-month-old daughter, Wylde, as pictured on Instagram

Boris' brother and a 7ft mystery blonde...

Buffonish London Mayor Boris Johnson is not the only ladies man in the family.

His lookalike half-brother Max, who works for Goldman Sachs in Hong Kong, shared this picture of himself online at an art fair in the Far East last week (left).

The sharply dressed 31-year-old son of Stanley Johnson and his second wife Jenny stands next to Pandemonia, a 7 ft Latex-clad conceptual artist, who is clutching an inflatable dog, Snowy.

Eloquent proof that blondes really do have more fun  especially if they are called Johnson.

Max Johnson and Pandemonium in Hong Kong Instagram

Is Ed Balls, the deposed Labour big beast who considers himself something of a master chef, pitching for a new job? Sad to see James Martin bow out with his last ever Saturday Kitchen  great show, great decade of TV, great job done, said Balls on social media. Sorry, Ed, the BBC already has Michel Roux Jr, among others, lined up as a guest host for the cookery show.

Emin: I wish I was a man

Eccentric artist Tracey Emin revealed she had married a rock last week in a shameless bid to publicise her new exhibition in China.

Now, she says she wishes she had been born a man. Im stuck in the 21st century as a woman with hips and big breasts, says Emin, 52. We dont have to be defined by literally where we are. We can transcend many things if we have the heart to.

I would have liked to possibly have been a Roman man, maybe 3,000 years ago with my wife and my entourage with really attractive boys. It would have suited me really well.

Artist Tracey Emin who has revealed that she would have liked to have been born a man

You might have thought George Galloway would want to get as much kip as possible in the run-up to the London mayoral elections. But the 61-year-old Respect Party candidate reveals he and his fourth wife, Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, share a bed with their son Toren. I have a 20-month-old son who sleeps with us every night, he says. I have four children. It makes a fantastic difference to your life. I know [kids film] Despicable Me 2 by heart, but Im also a million miles ahead of anyone else in politics when it comes to social media. I have a million followers. Nobody else in politics has anything remotely like that. George, I salute your indefatigability.
Beethoven has been crowned the king of classical music for the first time in a recent Classic FM poll

Britain has appeared immovable on the subject of its favourite composer, with Mozart being crowned king of classical music year after year.

But Beethoven has taken the spoils in the Classic FM poll for the first time, with three of his works featuring in the top ten most popular pieces.

The German composer had a total of 19 pieces in the top 300, with his increased popularity being linked to his music featuring in Hollywood films.

Unlike in previous years, Austrian child prodigy Mozart had just one composition in the top ten  his Clarinet Concerto  and 16 in the chart.

Classic FM presenter John Suchet pointed to film scores as a possible explanation for Beethovens rise.

Ever since we launched the first Classic FM Hall Of Fame in 1996, Mozart has taken precedence, he said.

I think that Beethovens new position as the most popular composer has to do with films such as the Oscar-winning The Kings Speech, which famously used his 7th Symphony, but his music is so universally popular.

'If you land on any street in any town in any country of the world, someone will know Beethovens work.

Indeed, Beethovens Piano Concerto No 5 (Emperor), Symphony No 6 (Pastoral) and Symphony No 9 (Choral) all received a considerable portion of the 170,000 votes cast in the Hall of Fame survey, putting them in the top 10.

Beethoven has taken the spoils in the for the first time, with three of his works featuring in the top ten (above)

Classic FM presenter John Suchet said he believed Beethoven's success in the Classic FM poll was due to films such as the Oscar-winning The Kings Speech (pictured), which famously used his 7th Symphony

A British composition was voted the nations favourite piece of classical music, with Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending taking the top spot for the seventh time since 1996.

Cinema has a big influence on the chart. John Williams Star Wars theme climbed 38 places to 44th following last years release of a new film.
If workplace bills are not passed a double-dissolution election will be held

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has reached out to crossbench senators for help passing the federal government's workplace reform laws before it triggers a double-dissolution election.

Family First Senator Bob Day says the prime minister called him on Easter Monday to discuss efforts to restore the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC).

The senator revealed in a statement he told Mr Turnbull there is no reason why an agreement can't be reached if the government commits to addresses corruption in other sectors, not just the construction industry.

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Family First Senator Bob Day says the prime minister called him looking for support in passing his workplace reform laws

'The prime minister clearly wants this bill to pass,' Mr Day said in the statement on Tuesday.

'After speaking with the PM, I am confident an agreement could be reached if the government agreed to look at sector-specific corruption measures,' Senator Day said.

He thinks the government should establish anti-corruption measures that are tailored to each sector, but thinks ABCC is 'the perfect place to start' cleaning up corruption.

Last week Governor-General Peter Cosgrove, on the prime minister's advice, recalled both houses of parliament for a three-week sitting from April 18.

Mr Turnbull wants the Senate to use the sitting - which will include the federal budget, brought forward a week to May 3 - to pass bills reinstating the ABCC and imposing higher penalties for union corruption.

The federal government require six of the eight crossbench senators to support its workplace reform laws.

If Malcom Turnbull's bills are not supported by six of the eight crossbench senators, a double-dissolution election will be held on July 2

Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek has accused the government of using workplace reforms debate to deflect from other problems such as overthrown Prime Minister Tony Abbott

If the bills, which have previously been rejected, are not passed, a double-dissolution election will be held on July 2, the first since 1987.

Labor deputy leader Tanya Plibersek has accused the government of using the ABCC debate to deflect from other problems it's facing, including ousted former prime minister Tony Abbott, reports Yahoo

She said Mr Tunbull was attempting to 'save his own skin' and speed up an election before overthrown Prime Minister Tony Abbott damages his credibility ahead of the upcoming election.
EU free movement rules have let dozens of foreign criminals commit horrific offences in Britain, analysis reveals.

A dossier released today lists 50 of the 'most dangerous' European criminals who have entered the UK freely, despite convictions in their countries.

Once here, 45 of them committed serious offences, the report by Brexit campaign Vote Leave says. In total, they were responsible for 14 killings, including nine murders, and 13 sex crimes of which seven were rape.

They also carried out robberies, theft, burglaries and drug offences.

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Dangerous: Among those on the list of 50 drawn up by Brexit campaign group Vote Leave are Arnis Zalkalns, left, the Latvian who murdered his wife before moving to the UK where he killed 14-year-old Alice Gross, right

Last night Brexit supporters said the report showed EU membership made the UK 'less safe and less secure'. The EU does not compel member states to share information on criminals, meaning many are able to travel to the UK unhindered.

Free movement rules give every EU citizen the right to enter any country in the bloc.

Eurosceptics argue that if Britain votes to leave we could negotiate a new deal that does not include free movement of workers without more stringent checks.

These could include criminal record checks on anyone wanting a visa, even for the short term. Serious offenders could then be automatically excluded.

The Government could continue co-operation on information sharing and extradition under any new agreements.

Among those on the list of 50 drawn up by Brexit campaign group Vote Leave are Arnis Zalkalns, the Latvian who murdered his wife before moving to the UK where he killed 14-year-old Alice Gross.

Violent: Dawid Tychon, left, was the ringleader of a Polish gang who attacked Paul Kohler, 57, right, at his home in south-west London. Professor Kohler suffered appalling injuries when he was beaten in front of his family

It also names Ireneusz Bartnowski, a Polish burglar who murdered elderly couple Guiseppe and Caterina Massaro a week after arriving in the UK.

The dossier also reveals the exasperation and despair of British judges presiding over these cases, as they questioned how such dangerous men got into the country in the first place.

Victor Akulic, a serial Lithuanian offender with convictions including child rape, committed rape again within a year of entering Britain. In court, Lady Justice Hallett asked: Do we have to take in anybody, even if they have a conviction for raping a child?

Kajus Scuka had convictions for murder, gross indecency and assault but after coming to the UK committed rape and three other sex attacks within months.

Serial offender: Rapist Victor Akulic committed rape again within a year of entering Britain

Sentencing, Judge Peter Kelson said: It seems to me  even with your convictions for murder and assaults you were free to enjoy the same freedom of movement as any other European citizen.

Among five who did not commit any offence in Britain is Abdelhamid Abaaoud, who helped plan the Bataclan terror attacks in Paris. He entered the UK despite a conviction in Belgium for terrorism-related offences.

Brexit campaigners argued the report showed EU membership meant Britain had lost control of its borders. Justice minister Dominic Raab, who is backing Brexit, said: EU rules make it far too difficult to control who comes into the UK, and who we can deport.

In security terms, that forces us to import risk at the expense of public protection. Theres no escaping the fact that this weakens our security.

Vote Leave chief executive Matthew Elliott said: EU membership means we have lost control of our borders and have been unable to prevent dangerous individuals from walking into the UK.

Free movement of people has created free movement of criminals making the UK less safe and less secure. Weve allowed EU judges to hang out a welcome sign to individuals the public would rightly expect never to be allowed into the UK. If we want a sensible and humane migration policy, the only safe option is to vote Leave and take back control.

Tory MP David Davis, former shadow home secretary, said: This highlights a big hole in the argument of those who say that being in the UK adds to our security and safety. As this list shows, it no way adds to our safety in any way; instead, it detracts from it.

Because we dont control our own borders, and because the EU prevents us from doing so, this puts people in Britain at risk of suffering real crimes, whether it is murder, rape or other criminal harm. This is a direct outcome of the EU obsession with freedom of movement.

But pro-EU campaigners said the Leave camps argument was confused. They insisted leaving the EU would damage co-operation between countries on crime. Former Home Office minister Damian Green said: Once again the Leave campaigns argument makes no sense, it is a mix of chaos and confusion.

Battered and stabbed: Guiseppe and Caterina Massaro were killed by Ireneusz Bartnowski as they lay in bed

The key alternatives they offer to our EU membership involve accepting the principle of free movement, including both Norway and Switzerland. The truth is the UK already has the best of both worlds.

We maintain all the benefits of EU membership whilst opting out of the passport-free Schengen area and maintaining our border at Calais rather than at Dover. We are able to stop suspects from travelling to the UK and since 2010 we have refused entry to almost 6,000 EEA [European Economic Area] nationals  Inside Europe we work with our partners to tackle violent crime, and through Europol we protect UK citizens and bring criminals to justice.

Leaving the EU would be a leap into the dark and would put this vital co-operation at risk.

Although the EU demands that the right to free movement is upheld, it does not compel member states to share information on known criminals  except in the most extreme circumstances.

Non-EU nationals applying for visas to come to Britain can be required to produce an official clean criminal record certificate.

Among five criminals who did not commit any offence in Britain is Abdelhamid Abaaoud, who helped plan the terror attacks in Paris. He entered the UK despite a conviction in Belgium for terrorism-related offences

The Remain camp argues that criminals could still cross the border even if we were outside the EU.

Last night immigration minister James Brokenshire said: We gain significantly from our EU membership in the fight against cross-border crime and which helps keep us safe.

It allows us to share information at pace and work closely with EU law enforcement agencies to identify and take action against organised criminals.

The European Arrest Warrant has made a big difference to ensure those fleeing crimes in the UK cant evade justice and are brought back before our courts. Being on the outside risks leaving the UK out of the loop in essential co-operation to combat crime.

He added: A vote to leave would bring inevitable uncertainty against the backdrop of a fast moving and ever-changing threat picture where the organised criminals are constantly on the look out for weakness and vulnerability.

DANGEROUS CRIMINALS WE COULDN'T KEEP OUT OF BRITAIN Chilling: Warsaw gangster Mariusz Florowski laughed as he was jailed for killing a garage owner WARSAW GANGSTER KILLED MAN WITH BLOW TORCH The fugitive member of the Warsaw mafia slipped in to Britain then killed a man with a blow torch. Mariusz Florowski, 39, was wanted for gang offences in his homeland, including kidnapping, but managed to enter the UK in 2012. On an industrial estate in Southall, west London, he burned garage owner Benedykt Nowaks face with a blow torch before dousing him in petrol after the man refused to hand over his business. The victims brother Pzemyslan, 26, was forced to watch A judge described the attack as torture. Florowski laughed as he was jailed for 30 years in 2013. BURGLAR BEAT COUPLE TO DEATH WEEK AFTER ARRIVAL Ireneusz Bartnowski, 22, battered and stabbed an elderly couple to death in 2011  a week after arriving in the UK to stay with his sister next door. He watched Guiseppe and Caterina Massaro for days before breaking in to their home and waiting for ten hours. When Mr Massaro, 80, and his wife, 77, went to bed, Bartnowski attacked them with a knife and a foot-long hammer. Four years earlier, he had been convicted of burglary in his homeland and given a suspended sentence. Jailing him for at least 34 years for the murders, a judge at Wolverhampton Crown Court said he was evil beyond belief. Vicious: Polish burglar Ireneusz Bartnowski, 22, left, battered and stabbed an elderly couple to death in 2011 - a week after arriving in the UK. Right, Czech criminal Kajus Scuka carried out a series of sex attacks CZECH PREDATOR GUILTY OF FOUR SEX ATTACKS IN UK A Czech criminal was allowed into Britain despite a murder conviction  and carried out a series of sex attacks including a knifepoint rape. Kajus Scuka, 52, had been jailed for 11 years in his homeland for stabbing his wife to death when she discovered he was cheating on her. He also had convictions for gross indecency, indecent assault and an axe attack on a woman. He came to the UK in 2009. But until they caught him, police did not know he was here. By then he had attacked three women and raped a fourth while she was walking her dog. He was jailed for at least 12 years in 2012. Victim: Schoolgirl Alice Gross was killed by Latvian builder Arnis Zalkalns, who murdered his wife SCHOOLGIRL'S KILLER LET IN DESPITE BEING JAILED FOR MURDERING WIFE IN LATVIA Latvian builder Arnis Zalkalns was let into Britain despite serving seven years in jail in his country for killing his wife. He moved to the UK in 2007 but police did not know about this conviction when he was later questioned about a sexual assault on a girl in London. He was not prosecuted and went on to murder schoolgirl Alice Gross on August 28, 2014. Zalkalns pounced on the 14-year-old on a canal towpath near her home in Hanwell, west London. Police believe he intended to sexually assault her, but his weight as he leapt on her crushed her to death. He then concealed her body in the River Brent. Police did not discover it until September 30. On October 4 that year, Zalkalns was found hanged in a park half a mile away, having committed suicide. GANG LEADER LEFT ACADEMIC WITH APPALLING INJURIES Dawid Tychon was the ringleader of a Polish gang who attacked an academic at his 2million home in south-west London. Father-of-four Professor Paul Kohler, 57, suffered appalling injuries when he was beaten in front of his family. The gang, who had a string of convictions in their homeland, including similar violent robberies, saw wealthy UK suburbs as a soft target. Tychon, 31, on the run from a Polish prison, had served three sentences, one for a gun attack. He was jailed for 13 years for the raid. Mariusz Tomaszewski, 34, and Pawel Honc, 25, each got 19 years and Oskar Pawlowicz, 31, got 13 years. Advertisement

EU rules that leave a gaping hole in our borders

By Ian Drury for the Daily Mail

Any EU citizen, including those from Eastern Europe, can enter the UK without a visa, just as Britons can travel freely around the continent.

When EU nationals arrive at the border, their passport details are checked against a watchlist of suspected terrorists and foreign criminals compiled by the border agency.

But unless an offender is high-profile, is known to have committed crimes in several countries, or is on Interpols wanted list, the system is unlikely to be aware of their previous convictions  leaving a gaping hole in our border controls. Except in the most extreme circumstances, Brussels does not force EU states to share information on known criminals who might travel.

France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Poland flag up potentially dangerous people to the UK so they can be turned away at ports or airports. But if countries do not warn that a dangerous offender is on the way  and some do not even keep information of convictions for internal use  there is little Britain can do to stop them slipping through the net.

Even if an arrival has a known conviction, they cannot automatically be refused entry.

Normally, a person can be excluded from the UK only if they pose a genuine, present and sufficiently serious threat. This means it is not enough for an EU citizen to have a serious criminal conviction  if it is some time in the past the UK may fall foul of Brussels directives if they refuse to allow that person in. The Government has access to the Second Generation Schengen Information System, known as SIS II, which has details of 250,000 wanted or missing people in Europe.

But it will issue alerts only on the most dangerous on-the-run criminals as well as missing people, stolen goods and suspected jihadists returning to Europe.
A man has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly doused a woman in petrol and tried to ignite a BBQ lighter following a domestic dispute.

Police say that the man poured petrol over a 51-year-old woman following an argument at a home in Parkinson, southern Brisbane, at around 8pm on Easter Monday.

The woman was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital as a precaution, but she did not suffer any serious injuries.

Officers arrested a 55-year-old man, who was known to the woman, outside the home before taking him into custody.

A man has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly doused a woman in petrol and tried to ignite a BBQ lighter following a domestic dispute at a home in Justin Close (shown), Parkinson, southern Brisbane

The Parkinson man has been charged with attempted murder, acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, attempted arson, common assault, contravention of a domestic violence order and wilful damage.

He is due to appear in Richlands Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

'At around 8pm on Monday a man poured petrol over a woman following an argument at a Parkinson residence,' a Queensland Police spokesman said.

A 55-year-old man is due to appear in Richlands Magistrates Court (pictured) on Tuesday

'Police will allege that the man did have a BBQ lighter and he did attempt to light it.'

Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
More than six million workers will lose around 500 a year in a stealth tax raid by George Osborne, it has emerged.

The reforms hit millions who opted out of a scheme to top up the state pension in return for lower National Insurance contributions.

The changes were announced three years ago but come into force now. Someone on 40,000 a year could lose as much as 40 a month from take home pay.

George Osborne's new stealth tax raid will mean more than six million workers will lose around 500 a year, it has emerged

Experts estimate around 1.5 million employees in the private sector and five million public sector staff will be affected. The reforms are expected to raise 5.5 billion for the Treasury.

Steve Webb, the ex-pensions minister now director of policy at insurers Royal London, said: I think the Chancellor had hoped that no one would notice this rather large tax increase smuggled out.

The Government is replacing the second state pension (Serps)  which let workers top up their basic pension  with so-called single-tier pensions.

In the past, millions with generous pension schemes decided not to pay into Serps as they did not need the extra money in retirement. They contracted out and in return paid less NI.

Experts estimate around 1.5 million employees in the private sector and five million public sector staff will be affected

In a further blow, more than half a million middle class workers will miss the full benefit of the Budget tax breaks.

Some 585,000 taxpayers will see the amount they contribute in NI soar by more than 500 for a couple. This will wipe out much of the benefit of the headline-grabbing tax break, which saw the start of the 40p tax rate increased to 45,000. Middle class earners were told to expect a 1,406 benefit.

But due to the changes, a couple earning 48,000 each would pay 524 more NI in a year by 2017 to 2018, according to accountancy firm PWC. They would still be better off overall, but by around 882 a year.

The extra cost comes in because NI and tax starting points are not equal: income tax is levied once a worker earns more than 10,600 but NI kicks in 8,060  at 12 per cent up to 42,380 then at two per cent above that figure.

But hidden in Budget documents are plans to also raise the 12p rate ceiling, so 585,000 workers face paying it on a bigger part of their earnings.

Owen Smith, shadow work and pensions secretary, said the Government was failing to be straight with people about the impact of their pensions policy.

From next month millions of workers will get a nasty surprise when they open their payslips and see an unexpected drop.

Danny Cox, of investment firm Hargreaves Lansdown, said: This is a stealth tax raid by the Chancellor. With one hand he is giving the families tax breaks but clawing them back with the other.

Many people dont understand National Insurance and dont realise that they are going to end up paying more.

Lower earners also face being dragged into paying NI as the 8,060 starting point will be almost unchanged, whereas the equivalent tax level will soar to 11,500 by April next year.

Patricia Mock, of accountancy firm Deloitte, said: Lower earners are being taken out of income tax but not out of National Insurance. The reason why the lower limit doesnt increase is cost, pure and simple.

The Chancellor has asked advisers to examine plans to merge NI with Income tax, to make it clearer for workers what they pay to the government.
A judge has spared a Scottish drug dealer from jail because he had 'suffered' enough after being made to live in Perth for three years under the restrictions of his criminal justice visa.

Salvatore Alfonso Sgarlata, 33, was arrested in 2012 after importing 15 kilograms of illegal synthetic cannabis named 'Bombay Blue' and selling it to shops in Western Australia.

The Scottish musician was caught after banking over $160,000 in proceeds in one month - with a further 55 kilograms of the drug waiting for him at a postal service to be sold, 7 News reported.

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Scottish musician Salvatore Sgarlata, 33, has been spared a jail sentence after he was arrested in 2012 for selling 15 kilograms of synthetic cannabis - an illegal drug in Australia

Mr Sgarlata made over $160,000 in one month for selling 'Blue Bombay' - a strain of the synthetic marijuana

District Court Judge Stephen Scott said that the 'physical, emotional and psychological effect' of being stuck in Perth was punishment enough for Mr Sgarlata

He pleaded guilty to 12 counts of selling a synthetic cannabinomimetic, one count of possession with intent to sell or supply - offences which have a maximum punishment of up to 25 years in jail.

But in his sentencing last week, Perth District Court Judge Stephen Scott said that the 'physical, emotional and psychological effect' of being stuck in Perth was punishment enough for Mr Sgarlata.

'I accept that that, in itself, has been a significant punishment of you,' Judge Scott said.

Under the criminal justice visa which was applied at his arrest in late 2012, Mr Sgarlata was unable to work, claim benefits or leave Australia to visit dying relatives in his homeland of Scotland.

In an earlier hearing, a court heard that Mr Sgarlarta had told police he was unaware that selling huge quantities of the dangerous synthetic drug was illegal in the country.

Sgarlata said he would be leaving Perth immediately.

Any drug that mimics the effects of cannabis - including Bombay Blue - is illegal to sell, distribute and use across all of Australia.

Synthetic cannabis is a new psychoactive substance - usually smoked - that is designed to mimic the effects of cannabis.

There is little empirical data on its short or long-term effects, as its chemical make-up is regularly shifted as manufacturers attempt to stay ahead of the law.

Punishment enough: Mr Sgarlata was made to live in Perth for three years under the restrictions of his criminal justice visa
They died out more than 40,000 years ago but the legacy left by two prehistoric species of early humans is far more widespread than had been previously believed.

Scientists have discovered a surprising number of bloodlines around the world carry fragments of DNA from Neanderthals or their sister species, the mysterious Denisovans.

Their analysis suggests that our modern human ancestors appear to have interbred with the Denisovans just 100 generations after their trysts with Neanderthals.

Scientists have produced new maps showing the levels of Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry around the world. They found surprising levels of Denisovan DNA in modern human populations across Asia (illustrated above), but the highest levels were in Papua New Guinea and other parts of Melanesia

And the study has unearthed some surprising new benefits these illicit encounters have gifted to modern humans living today.

For example genetic variants inherited from Denisovans appear to have given some people in south Asia a better ability to detect subtle scents and helped others to survive at high altitudes.

ARE OUR ALLERGIES THE LAST LAUGH OF THE NEANDERTHALS Between one and six per cent of the DNA carried by people from Europe, and much of Asia, has been inherited from Neanderthals or their ancient early human cousins the Denisovans. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, have identified three distinct genetic variations from Neanderthals that play a role in allergies. These genes produce proteins known as Toll-like receptors, which are an important part of the innate immune system that provides the first line of defence against infections. However, faults in this immune response also lead to allergies as immune cells react to non-harmful substances such as pollen, food, dust or animal hair. The researchers said three Neanderthals genes which produce proteins called TLR 6, TLR1 and TLR10 all seem to be associated with, and increase, allergic disease in large numbers of people. Advertisement

Neanderthals have bequeathed tougher hair and skin onto the human descendants that came after them.

But the researchers found interbreeding between Homo sapiens and these early human ancestors may have also led to lower fertility in men who were the product these unions.

Dr David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School who led the research, told MailOnline: 'The interbreeding events introduced lots of Denisovan and Neanderthal ancestry into modern humans.

'Some of it survived to the present just by chance. Other material provided evolutionary advantages.

'There are certain classes of genes that modern humans inherited from the archaic humans with whom they interbred, which may have helped the modern humans to adapt to the new environments in which they arrived.'

It is thought that modern humans, Homo sapiens, left Africa around 60,000 years ago and interbred with Neanderthals on at least one occasion, but perhaps multiple times.

One study has even suggested the two species first mated as long ago as 100,000 years ago.

Genetic studies have also suggested Homo sapiens may also have encountered and bred with Denisovans as they spread across Asia.

Neanderthal genes are most commonly found in Europeans and those from central Asia but most populations outside Africa have traces of their DNA (illustrated in the map). It is thought to have gifted modern humans a number of traits, including thicker hair and tougher skin, according to the new study

Neanderthals (reconstruction pictured) are thought to have first mated with modern humans as long as 100,000 years ago, according to one recent study. Other studies have shown they gave modern humans the immune genes they needed to survive while the latest research reveals they also gave us tougher skin

Little is known about the Denisovans apart from what has been gleaned from a handful of fossilised remains discovered in a cave in Russia (Denisovan tooth pictured). Researchers have obtained DNA from these and found that Melanesian people carry the largest amount of Denisovan DNA in their genomes

WHO WERE THE DENISOVANS? A finger bone from the Denisova cave The Denisovans are an extinct species of human that appear to have lived in Siberia and even down as far as southeast Asia. Although remains of these mysterious early humans have only been discovered at one site - the Denisova Cave in the Altai Mountains in Siberia, DNA analysis has shown they were widespread. DNA from these early humans has been found in the genomes of modern humans over a wide area of Asia, suggesting they once covered a vast range. They are thought to have been a sister species of the Neanderthals, who lived in western Asia and Europe at around the same time. The two species appear to have separated from a common ancestor around 200,000 years ago, while they split from the modern human Homo sapien lineage around 600,000 years ago. Bone and ivory beads found in the Denisova Cave were discovered in the same sediment layers as the Denisovan fossils, leading to suggestions they had sophisticated tools and jewellery. Professor Chris Stringer, an anthropologist at the Natural History Museum in London, said: 'Layer 11 in the cave contained a Denisovan girl's fingerbone near the bottom but worked bone and ivory artefacts higher up, suggesting that the Denisovans could have made the kind of tools normally associated with modern humans. 'However, direct dating work by the Oxford Radiocarbon Unit reported at the ESHE meeting suggests the Denisovan fossil is more than 50,000 years old, while the oldest 'advanced' artefacts are about 45,000 years old, a date which matches the appearance of modern humans elsewhere in Siberia.' Advertisement

But the new research suggests their influence on the genomes of modern people living in Asia is far greater than previously believed.

While people living in Papua New Guinea and other parts of Melanesia are known to have up to four per cent of their genomes made up of Denisovan DNA, very little has been found elsewhere in the world previously.

The new research shows that a large proportion of people of east Asian descent carry Denisovan DNA.

It has also revealed Densiovan DNA has spread as far as South America with the early humans who crossed the Pacific to form the indigenous populations there.

To conduct the study, which is published in the journal Current Biology, the scientists analysed 250 genomes from 120 non-African populations.

The researchers found people from Oceania had the highest levels of Denisovan genetic ancestry (shown in blue above) while most populations outside Africa have Neanderthal DNA (shown in red)

They then compared these to the growing database of Neanderthal and Denisovan DNA using machine learning algorithms that can differentiate between ancestral genes and modern genes.

It revealed that individuals from Oceania possess the highest percentage of archaic ancestory and south Asians possess more Denisovan ancestry than previously believed.

The findings suggest that previously unknown interbreeding events may have taken place between modern humans and Denisovans.

Beyond those of African descent, Western Eurasians are the least likely to have Neanderthal or Denisovan genes.

This provides new details about the spread of modern humans around the world after they left Africa, the scientists say.

'The interactions between modern humans and archaic humans are complex and perhaps involved multiple events,' said Dr Reich.

Neanderthals are thought to have interbred with modern humans on several occasions, leading to surprising levels of their genes surviving in the DNA of modern human's today

'All East Asians have a bit of Denisovan DNA, and Native Americans have East Asian ancestry.

'We think Native Americans probably got their Denisovan DNA from their East Asian ancestors.

'We find very little Denisovan DNA anywhere in mainland Asiaincluding in South Asia.

'Our point is just that there is more in South Asia than is expected, and this must reflect some previously unknown history.'

The researchers also found that both Denisovan and Neanderthal ancestry appears to have been lost from the X chromosome as well as on genes expressed in the male testes.

Dr Reich said this suggests hybrids that resulted from these unions may have suffered from fertility problems.

He told MailOnline: 'We detected evidence that men who were mixtures of modern human and Neanderthal parents, and modern human and Denisovan parents, had reduced fertility.'
While the name 'Judas' is synonymous with the most heinous of traitors, one expert suggests we re-address the claims against him

As many of us regret gorging on chocolate for days, Christians spend the Easter weekend reflecting on the death of Jesus and his resurrection.

In many Orthodox and Catholic countries, an effigy of Judas is burned as part of the Easter rituals, a custom that continued in Liverpool until as late as the mid-20th century.

And Judas' bad rap doesn't just extend to religious ritual, it has also become an insult in contemporary culture.

While the name 'Judas' may be synonymous with the most heinous of traitors, Katie Edwards from the University of Sheffield suggests it may be time to re-address the claims in an article for The Conversation.

Judas Iscariot was, according to the New Testament, one of the twelve original disciples of Jesus.

He is known for the kiss and betrayal of Jesus to the Sanhedrin for thirty silver coins which ultimately led to Jesus being nailed to the cross.

As part of their Easter religious programming, on Good Friday the BBC in the UK aired In the Footsteps of Judas, a documentary focusing on Iscariot.

Presented by vicar Reverend Kate Bottley, the programme promised to 'reopen the case against the Bible's most notorious villain'.

The Catholic Herald has already taken exception to the documentary, stating that 'a perfectly good word exists in the English language for Judas' actions: evil'.

But the Bishop of Leeds, Reverend Nick Baines, proves far more sympathetic to the biblical villain: 'I feel a bit sorry for Judas,' he said.

'He has gone down in history as the ultimate traitor who sells his friend for a few quid. Whether he is a traitor or a scapegoat he has had a lousy press.'

The BBC documentary isn't the first attempt to rehabilitate Judas.

The tide's been slowly turning for Iscariot since the 1960s with the English language publication of Nikos Kazantzaki's controversial novel The Last Temptation of Christ and the subsequent filmic portrayals of Judas as less archetypal evil villain and more complex political figure and friend of Jesus.

Despite the centuries of denunciation, the biblical text is more ambiguous than we might expect, too. It isn't clear if Judas is a thief who betrays Jesus or if he is a true disciple, who is a central agent in the fulfillment of God's plan to have Jesus die for our sins (illustrated) so he could be resurrected

The discovery of the Gospel of Judas in the 1970s was a further move towards re-imagining the character.

ARE ATHEISTS PSYCHOPATHS? If you don't believe in God or a universal spirit, you're more likely to be callous and manipulative, according to a controversial new study. Atheists exhibit more traits commonly seen among psychopaths than people who consider themselves to be religious. However, believers aren't spared criticism - the study also found that religious people are less intelligent than their non-believing counterparts. Religious people were found to be more caring towards their fellow humans and the researchers believe their findings may help explain why women - who tend to be more empathetic - are also likely to be more religious. Researchers at Cape Western Reserve University in Ohio and Babson College in Massachusetts, argue that the conflict between science and religion may have its origins in the structure of our brains. Advertisement

The gospel offers a much more sympathetic character, a favoured apostle to whom Jesus says: 'You will be cursed by the other generations - and you will come to rule over them.'

Despite the centuries of denunciation, the biblical text itself is more ambiguous than we might expect, too.

It isn't clear if Judas is a thief who betrays Jesus or if he is a true disciple, who is a central agent in the fulfillment of God's plan and does the dirty work that the other disciples won't do.

The gospels can't help us to reach a decision because, as with many biblical stories and characters, their evidence is conflicting and often contradictory.

Matthew 26:47-56, for example, suggests that Judas is fulfilling a necessary duty. Jesus says to him: 'Do what you came for, friend' (26:50).

Indeed, none of the apostles are presented in a heroic light in the text since they all desert Jesus (26:56).

Most of the gospels suggest Judas' betrayal is essential to the fulfillment of God's plan (John 13:18, John 17:12, Matthew 26:2325, Luke 22:2122, Matt 27:910, Acts 1:16, Acts 1:20).

The Gospel of John also suggests that Jesus knows of Judas's betrayal and allows it (John 6:64 and 13:27-28) but, far less sympathetically, that Judas also was a liar and a thief (12:1-6).

In Mark (14:10-11), meanwhile, it isn't clear that money is a motivation for his betrayal of Jesus, while the gospels of Luke and John both agree that Judas betrays Jesus because Satan enters into him, suggesting perhaps that Judas may not have been acting of his own free will (Luke 22:3-6; John 13:27).
Last week it was resurrected for another flight from Arizona to Virginia, where it will be restored

known as Air Force 8610, but the plane's name was later changed to Air Force One in 1962

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The original 'Air Force One' plane has been sitting in a hanger collecting dust for over a decade.

And last week it was resurrected for another flight from Arizona to Virginia, where it will be restored.

Nicknamed 'Columbine II', the four-engine plane is getting a makeover to look just as it did while President Dwight Eisenhower was in office.

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The first 'Air Force One' was built in 1948 and flew President Dwight D. Eisenhower around the world. For the past decade it has been sitting in a hanger collecting dust for over a decade

HISTORY OF AIR FORCE ONE Columbine II was built in Burbank, California in 1948 and was the only presidential craft every sold to a third-party. The plane was almost destroyed in New York City during 1953, when air traffic controllers confused flight numbers of Eastern Airlines flight 8610 and the presidential craft, which at the time was called Air Force 8610. Officials thought it was wise to use the name 'Air Force One' to not hinder an event like that happening in the future, but it wasn't dubbed the official name until 1962. Once Columbine II was retired in 1968, it was sold to an Idaho business man who considered cutting it for spare parts because he wasn't aware of its historical significant. But luckily the Smithsonian Institution was searching for the plane and contacted him before it was destroyed. Advertisement

Taking on this feat is Dynamic Aviation Group, who will work on the iconic plane at a facility in Bridgewater.

'We want to see it used as a teaching aid for young people to understand that era of American history, which was a very, very good era of American history,' Dynamic Aviation founder Karl Stoltzfus told WVIR-TV.

Although, the firm said it could be years before Columbine II is ready for the public to enjoy.

Columbine II was built in Burbank, California in 1948 and was the only presidential craft every sold to a third-party.

The plane was almost destroyed in New York City during 1953, when air traffic controllers confused flight numbers of Eastern Airlines flight 8610 and the presidential craft, which at the time was called Air Force 8610.

Officials thought it was wise to use the name 'Air Force One' to not hinder an event like that happening in the future, but it wasn't dubbed the official name until 1962.

Once Columbine II was retired in 1968, it was sold to an Idaho business man who considered cutting it for spare parts because he wasn't aware of its historical significant.

But luckily the Smithsonian Institution was searching for the plane and contacted him for it was forever destroyed.

Years later it did take to the sky and flew in several air shows. Stoltzfus grabbed it from the boneyard, but did not say at what cost.

He has had his eye on this beauty for a few years now and had previously mention the owner was selling if for $1.5 million at one time.

According to the company's founder, Karl D. Stoltzfus Sr., this was only possible because of the on-site leadership of Dynamic's Brian Miklos and the generous contribution of others, in particular Scott Glover and his Mid-America Flight Museum, of Mt. Pleasant, TX.

The team has not only prepared the aircraft for a ferry flight, they have gone to the effort of bringing it back to airworthy status and will fly it to their home base, Bridgewater Airpark, Bridgewater, VA, as a certificated aircraft.

Nicknamed 'Columbine II', the four-engine plane is getting a makeover to look just as it did while President Dwight Eisenhower was in office

All systems have been thoroughly gone through; brakes overhauled and new tires installed; many engine accessories overhauled, and much more.

At Bridgewater it will be restored to its former glory and prepared for the air show circuit.

The Lockheed Constellation is one of the most aesthetic airplanes ever built! The "short Connie" with the radome is wonderfully balanced, shared Ken Stoltzfus, Karl Stolzfus twin brother, on John2031.com.

The DC-4's behind Columbine are great, functional airplanes, but they don't have the "lines" of the Connie. Sort of like comparing a pickup truck and a Corvette.

Air Force One is the key sign of American presidency and power.

And it's fair to say, some pretty important pre-conference deliberations have taken place on board high above the clouds.

Air Force One is the aircraft that transports Barack Obama to meetings throughout the world, and the highly-customised Boeing 747-200B has even been enjoyed by British Prime Minister David Cameron.

With 4,000 sq ft of floor space over three levels, it certainly doesn't lack n space, and includes an extensive suite for the president with a large office, lavatory, and a conference room.

But it's not just the space and facilities that make the plane so ideal, it is also stacked with the latest safety equipment.

Once Columbine II was retired in 1968, it was sold to an Idaho business man who considered cutting it for spare parts because he wasn't aware of its historical significant. But luckily the Smithsonian Institution was searching for the plane and contacted him for it was forever destroyed

When you enter through the passenger door (part of the cargo door) you come into an eight foot bay which leads into this 24' passenger cabin. Columbine was never modified into cargo configuration or used as a sprayer, but after it's Air Force One days it served in other VIP transport

According to White House information the onboard electronics are hardened to protect against an electromagnetic pulse - such as a nuclear explosion - and Air Force One is equipped with advanced secure communications equipment, allowing the aircraft to function as a 'mobile command centre'.

The plane can reach speeds up to 620 miles per hour, 40 miles per hour faster than their commercial counterparts. And, according to Business Insider, there are also mirror ball missile deflectors embedded in the wings of the plane should the aircraft come under attack.

Interestingly, there are two identical planes used by the President and they are referred to as SAM 28000 and SAM 29000 when they are flying without the President on board.

All systems have been thoroughly gone through; brakes overhauled and new tires installed; many engine accessories overhauled, and much more. At Bridgewater it will be restored to its former glory and prepared for the air show circuit. Some of the original interior is still intact

The cost an estimated $330million each when bought in the early 1990s for the first President Bush.

There is no chance the leader of the free world will go hungry on board - the plane also has two food preparation galleys that can feed 100 people at a time.

Although the plane is popularly known as Air Force One, this is technically the call sign of any Air Force aircraft carrying the President.

The Lockheed Constellation is one of the most aesthetic airplanes ever built! The "short Connie" with the radome is wonderfully balanced, shared Ken Stoltzfus, Karl Stolzfus twin brother, on John2031.com . The DC-4's behind Columbine are great, functional airplanes, but they don't have the "lines" of the Connie. Sort of like comparing a pickup truck and a Corvette'

Years later it did take to the sky and flew in several air shows. Stoltzfus grabbed it from the boneyard, but did not say at what cost. He has had his eye on this beauty for a few years now and had previously mention the owner was selling if for $1.5 million at one time

Capable of refueling midair - as seen in the Harrison Ford film, Air Force One - the Boeing 747-200B aircrafts have unlimited range and don't need to land for days at a time.

The planes are a powerful symbol of American power and a presidential aircraft was first used by President Kennedy.

The US military has recently chosen a new Boeing model to replace its current fleet of Air Force One presidential aircrafts. The new Air Force One planes will be Boeing's commercial 747-8 airliner, replacing the old Boeing 747-200Bs.

The Pentagon had considered the A380 made by European aerospace giant Airbus, but opted for home-grown talent.

'The Boeing 747-8 is the only aircraft manufactured in the United States (that) when fully missionized meets the necessary capabilities established to execute the presidential support mission,' said Air Force secretary Deborah James in a statement.

Obama in his 'Oval Office' aboard Air Force One; here he is pictured signing a bill that will give the Congressional Gold Medal to the Foot Soldiers who Participated in Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama

The mirror balls built into the wings are able to deflect infra-red missile systems, should the unthinkable happen

Boeing welcomed the Air Force's decision to skip a competition and opt for the 747-8, citing its 50-year history of building presidential aircraft.

The Air Force now operates two VC-25s, specially configured Boeing 747-200Bs. It said it planned to purchase enough of the technical baseline to permit competition for maintenance during the plane's planned 30-year life.

James said the Air Force One program would use proven technologies and commercially certified equipment to keep the program affordable.

The president's plane has long been a symbol of American power and the setting for historic moments, including the somber 1963 ceremony when Lyndon Johnson took the oath of office on board -- hours after the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

The jet can cater for 100 people, whether they want to relax back with snacks and a drink, or perhaps a more formal meal

The plane is equipped with the latest in communications and security systems, and is capable of functioning as a mobile command centre in the event of an attack on the US

The plane is often portrayed in Hollywood films and inspired a 1997 thriller titled 'Air Force One' in which the US president, played by Harrison Ford, fought off hijackers.

Outfitted with secure communications equipment and other gear, Air Force One is designed to serve as a 'mobile command center' and served that role briefly after the attacks of September 11, 2001.

It also features a suite for the commander-in-chief that includes a large office, a conference room as well as a medical area that can function as an operating room.

The plane's galley can feed up to 100 people and there are additional quarters for senior aides, Secret Service agents and other staff.

Air Force One is technically the radio call sign adopted by any aircraft with the president on board but it has become identified with certain planes reserved for the president's air travel.

The body of the plane is said to be able to withstand a nuclear blast from the ground and has a number of emergency exits
If you're unsure whether a politician really disagrees with an issue, then just look for the 'not face'.

The facial expression has been discovered to be a universal sign for anger, disgust and contempt.

Consisting of a furrowed brow, pressed lips and raised chin, the expression is found among many cultures, including those who speak English, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.

If you're unsure whether a politician really disagrees with an issue, then just for the 'not face'. The facial expression has been discovered to be a universal sign for anger, disgust and contempt. Donald Trump (pictured) has shown the 'not face' while campagining

WHAT IS THE 'NOT FACE'? It consists of a furrowed brow, pressed lips and raised chin, because we make it when we convey negative sentiments, such as 'I do not agree,' researchers are calling it the 'not face.' The expression is found among many cultures, including those who speak English, Spanish and Mandarin Chine Advertisement

The discovery was made by Ohio State University who began their work by hypothesizing that if a universal 'not face' is real, then it has a combination of three basic facial expressions that are universal for anger, disgust and contempt.

Charles Darwin believed the ability to express danger or aggression was vital to the survival of humans long before we learned how to speak.

So researchers suspected if any universal facial expressions of emotion exists, then the expression for disapproval or disagreement would be the easiest to identify.

The team recruited 158 students from Ohio State, who spoke English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and ASL.

They were all filmed and photographed while having a casual conversation with the person behind the camera in their native language.

Participants were asked questions that would bring on a negative emotion, such as 'A study shows that tuition should increase 30 percent. What do you think?'

Following the questions, each student's face was tagged and framed in a computer where an algorithm sifted through them to find similarities.

Researchers began by hypothesizing that if a universal 'not face' is real, then it has a combination of three basic facial expressions that are universal for anger, disgust and contempt. The team recruited 158 students from Ohio State, who spoke English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and American Sign Language

The team believed that if the students' facial muscles moved to make the 'not face' within the same frequency band then the face was likely to be a universal grammatical marker of language. Benedict Cumberbatch (left) and Kourtney Kardashian (right) are both shown her doing version of the 'not face'

This is when they found the furrowed brows of anger combined with the raised chin of 'disgust' and the pressed lips of 'contempt'.

No matter what language group the participant belonged to, they showed the same three movements as they communicated using negative sentence.

The second part of the study compared the rate at which the students' facial muscles moved.

The team believed that if the students' facial muscles moved to make the 'not face' within the same frequency band then the face was likely to be a universal grammatical marker of language.

In the tests, native English speakers made the 'not face' at a frequency of 4.33 Hz, Spanish at 5.23 Hz, and Mandarin speakers at 7.49 Hz. Speakers of ASL made the face at a frequency of 5.48 Hz.

All frequencies were within the 3-8 Hz range of spoken communication, which strongly suggests that the facial expression is an actual grammatical marker.

They also found that the 'not face' was commonly used among those who sign.

Instead of signing the word 'not', they would convey their feelings just by making the face.

This is the first time researchers have documented a third way that users of sign language say 'not', without having to sign.

The study found that our facial muscles contract to form this look the same frequency at which we speak or sign words in a sentence. Pictured is Bernie Sanders, a Democratic presidential candidate, doing the 'not face'
Since its discovery at the beginning of this year, the mysterious Planet Nine has had scientists looking for the signs that could confirm its existence.

Now, astronomer Mike Brown of Caltech, one of the scientists behind the January announcement, claims hes found further evidence to support it.

The giant hidden planet is thought to sit on the edge of our solar system and is 10 times more massive than the Earth, gaseous, and similar to Uranus or Neptune.

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Since its discovery at the beginning of this year, the mysterious Planet Nine has had scientists looking for the signs that could confirm its existence. Now, Professor Mike Brown, one of the scientists behind the January announcement, claims hes found further evidence to support it

WHAT ARE KUIPER BELT OBJECTS? The Kuiper Belt is a disc-shaped region of icy bodies - including dwarf planets such a Pluto - and comets beyond the orbit of Neptune. It extends from about 30 to 55 AU and is probably populated with hundreds of thousands of icy bodies larger than 100 km (62 miles) across and an estimated trillion or more comets. The first Kuiper Belt Object (KBO) was discovered in 1992. Scientists suggests the strange orbital paths of some KBOs reveal that these objects crossed paths with Planet Nine at some point. Advertisement

Last week, Mike Brown tweeted a photo that shows the plot of a newly discovered eccentric Kuiper Belt Object (KBO).

In the post, Brown wrote,: Hey Planet Nine fans, a new eccentric KBO was discovered. And it is exactly where Planet Nine says it should be.

The KBO in question is 'uo3L91,' shown with a solid blue line in the graph. Brown writes that the slide comes from a recent talk at the Seti Institute.

This discovery was made from an Outer Solar System Origins Survey (OSSOS) on the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope, according to a subsequent tweet.

Planet Nine is oriented oppositely from the other planets, the astronomer explains, so it is off of the graph, and to the right.

I havent done the statistics yet, but I suspect this takes the probability of this being a statistical fluke down to ~.001% or so, Brown tweeted.

While no conclusive evidence of its existence has emerged so far, a number of researchers have undertaken their own studies on the possible planet, which is referred to as Planet Nine or Planet X.

The most convincing so far is a recent study by scientists at the University of Arizona, who looked at the high eccentricity of distant Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs).

They suggest their strange orbital paths reveal that these objects crossed paths with Planet Nine at some point.

Scientists believe Planet Nine traces a highly elongated orbit and takes between 10,000 and 20,000 years to make just one journey around the sun.

Last week, Professor Mike Brown from Caltech tweeted a photo that shows the plot of a newly discovered eccentric Kuiper Belt Object (KBO)

The six most distant known objects in the solar system with orbits exclusively beyond Neptune (magenta) all mysteriously line up in a single direction. Such an orbital alignment can only be maintained by some outside force, Batygin and Brown say. The January paper argues that a planet with 10 times the mass of the earth in a distant eccentric orbit anti-aligned with the other six objects (orange) is required to maintain this configuration

Planet Nine is, on average, about 20 times further from the sun than Neptune, which orbits at a distance of about 2.8 billion miles.

Back in January, its existence was inferred from the gravitational influence it has on several Kuiper Belt objects with highly unusual orbits.

The clinching evidence came from a prediction that a ninth planet would result in Kuiper Belt objects having orbits inclined perpendicularly to the plane of the planets.

In the last three years, four objects were found that behaved in this way.

'We plotted up the positions of those objects and their orbits, and they matched the simulations exactly,' said Professor Mike Brown, from Caltech, one of the astronomers who announced the discovery.

Caltech colleague Dr Konstantin Batygin said: 'Although we were initially quite sceptical that this planet could exist, as we continued to investigate its orbit and what it would mean for the outer solar system, we became increasingly convinced that it is out there.

'For the first time in over 150 years, there is solid evidence that the solar system's planetary census is incomplete.'

The latest study by Arizona University proposes an alternative explanations, according to Universe Today.

NASA WARNS ITS TOO EARLY TO CONFIRM IF PLANET NINE REALLY EXISTS In January, Nasa warned that claims of a new planet lurking in our solar system are premature. The space agency said that the controversial Caltech paper claiming a ninth planet exists beyond Pluto was 'just a prediction'. It called for caution - but pledged 'if it's there, we'll find it.' In a YouTube video, Jim Green, director of planetary science at Nasa addressed the new findings. 'The January 20 paper in the Astronomical Journal is fueling our interest in planetary exploration,' Green said. 'Stimulating a healthy debate that's part of the scientific process. 'It is not, however, the detection of a new planet. It's too early to say with certainty that there's a so-called 'Planet X' out there. He pledged Nasa experts would take part in the process to try and find it. 'It's all about starting the process that could lead to an exiting result. 'If Planet X is out there, we'll find it together. Alan Stern, a planetary scientist at the Southwest Research Institute who is the principal investigator for NASA's New Horizons mission to Pluto and beyond, was also sceptical. 'This is about the fifth or 10th prediction like this.  Not one has panned out,' he said 'If they do find it, it'll be more like Number 19, not Number 9,' he told GeekWire in an email. Advertisement

It suggests that if Planet Nine were crossing paths with high-eccentricity Kuiper Belt objects, there was a good chance it was in resonance with these objects.

'We have these six observed objects whose orbits are currently fairly unaffected by the known planets in our solar system,' the researchers told Universe today in an email.

'But if there's another, as yet unobserved planet located a few hundred AU from the sun, these six objects would be affected by that planet.'

Their findings could help to pin down Planet Nine's possible location.

But the researchers admit several unknowns remain, and further studies of these objects need to be undertaken before they can come to any conclusion.

'There are a lot of uncertainties here,' they told Universe today.

'The orbits of these extreme Kuiper belt objects are not very well known because they move very slowly on the sky and we've only observed very small portions of their orbital motion.
Hoards of selfie-stick toting tourists have become an inevitable irritation at landmarks around the world as visitors attempt to cram their faces into a frame with famous backgrounds.

But the trend for capturing the perfect selfie has implications that go beyond the odd blow to the head from an errant phone on the end of a pole and the hours wasted by girls sculpting their make-up.

Professor Michael Weigold, a psychologist at the University of Florida, warns that people are taking increasing risks - both to themselves and others - to get an unusual shot of themselves.

The craze for taking selfies is putting the lives of those who are taking them and those around them. Experts warn that while selfies can help to affirm people's view of themselves, they can also lead to a great deal of negative behaviour (stock image of a woman taking a selfie while driving is pictured)

Writing for The Conversation, he finds there is increasingly little to celebrate about the latest digital craze.

2016 hasn't been a great year for the selfie.

SELFIES AND NARCISSISM Apart from injuries, fatalities and tastelessness, one big issue with selfies appears to be their function as either a cause or consequence of narcissism. Peter Gray, writing for Psychology Today, describes narcissism as 'an inflated view of the self, coupled with a relative indifference to others.' Narcissists tend to overrate their talents and respond with anger to criticism. They are also more likely to bully and less likely to help others. According to Gray, surveys of college students show the trait is far more prevalent today than even as recently as 30 years ago. Do selfies and narcissism correlate? Psychologist Gwendolyn Seidman suggests that there's a link. She cites two studies that examined the prevalence of Facebook selfies in a sample of over 1,000 people. Men in the sample who posted a greater number of selfies were more likely to show evidence of narcissism. Among female respondents, the number of selfie posts was associated only with a subdimension of narcissism called 'admiration demand,' defined as 'feeling entitled to special status or privileges and feeling superior to others.' The bottom line - selfies and narcissism appear to be linked. Advertisement

In February, Argentinian tourists passed around a baby La Plata dolphin in order to take selfies with it. The endangered animal subsequently died from stress and heat exhaustion.

Then, in early March, a swan died after a tourist dragged it from a lake in Macedonia  all for the sake of a selfie.

While both animal deaths elicited widespread anger, humans have been more likely to put their own lives at risk in order to snap the perfect photograph. In 2015, Russian authorities even launched a campaign warning that 'A cool selfie could cost you your life.'

The reason? Police estimate nearly 100 Russians have died or suffered injuries from attempting to take 'daredevil' selfies, or photos of themselves in dangerous situations. Examples include a woman wounded by a gunshot (she survived), two men blown up holding grenades (they did not), and people taking pics on top of moving trains.

Heights have also resulted in selfie fatalities. A Polish tourist in Seville, Spain fell off a bridge and died attempting to take a selfie. And a Cessna pilot lost control of his plane  killing himself and his passengers  while trying to take a selfie in May of 2014.

Putting oneself in harm's way is not the only way our selfie obsession has resulted in death. One male teen  who allegedly suffering from body dysmorphic disorder  attempted suicide after spending hundreds of hours trying to take an 'ideal' selfie.

People who frequently post selfies are often targets for accusations of narcissism and tastelessness. But with social networking apps like Snapchat becoming more and more popular, selfies are only proliferating.

In some cases people willingly put themselves into dangerous situtations in order to capture a selfie. This CCTV image shows rail passengers posing for photos on a railway track. Network Rail in the UK issued a warning last year urging people not to take selfies on train tracks

So what's going on here? What is it about the self-portrait that's so resonant as a form of communication? And why, psychologically, might someone feel so compelled to snap the perfect selfie that they'd risk their life, or the lives of others (animals included)?

While there are no definitive answers, as a psychologist I find these questions  and this unique 21st-century phenomomenon  worth exploring further.

Robert Cornelius, an early American photographer, has been credited with taking the first selfie: in 1839, Cornelius, using one of the earliest cameras, set up his camera and ran into the shot.

The broader availability of point-and-shoot cameras in the 20th century led to more self-portraits, with many using the (still) popular method of snapping a photograph in front of a mirror.

Experts believe that people putting themselves in more dangerous situations to take selfies has resulted in a rise in people dying trying to take self-portraits (file picture of two men taking selfphies on top of a building)

Selfie technology took a giant leap forward with the invention of the camera phone. Then, of course, there was the introduction of the selfie stick.

For a brief moment the stick was celebrated - Time named it one of the 25 best inventions of 2014. But critics quickly dubbed it the Naricisstick and the sticks are now banned in many museums and parks, including Walt Disney Resort.

IS A SELFIE WORTH DYING FOR? Millions of people across the world everyday hold up their cameras to snap selfies to share with their friends. But according to new data, more people have died taking selfies than were killed by sharks in 2015. A total of 12 people are known to have suffered selfie-related deaths after either falling or being struck by a moving vehicle when taking a picture of themselves. However, according to data compiled by Mashable, only eight people are known to have been killed by a shark. And experts believe the rise in selfie-related deaths could be down the fact people are more willing to put themselves in dangerous situations, such as with animals or posing from great heights, to impress friends on social media. This has also prompted wildlife parks to close as officials were concerned about people wanting to take selfies with wild bears, while some cyclists have spoken of how spectators should be banned from taking pictures of themselves while watching the Tour de France. The latest figures come after a 66-year-old Japanese man became the 12th person this year to die while taking a selfie after falling down some steps and suffering a heart attack. Hideto Uedo was believed to have been taking a photograph at the Royal Gate when the incident occurred. Meanwhile Australian tourist Kristi Kafcaloudious plummeted 200 metres to her death while trying to take pictures near a rock face in Norway. A Singaporean tourist also plunged to their death while attempting to take a selfie off the coast of Bali and another tourist was also gored to death in a Spanish town as he tried to take a picture during a bull run. Meanwhile in January, two young men blew themselves up in the Urals in Russia while taking a selfie holding a hand grenade with the pin pulled out. Advertisement

Despite the criticism directed at selfies, their popularity is only growing.

Conclusive numbers seem lacking, with estimates of daily selfie posts ranging from one million to as high as 93 million on Android devices alone.

Whatever the true number, a Pew survey from 2014 suggests the selfie craze skews young. While 55 percent of millennials reported sharing a selfie on a social site, only 33 percent of the silent generation (those born between 1920 and 1945) even knew what a selfie was.

A British report from this year also suggests younger women are more active participants in selfie-taking, spending up to five hours a week on self-portraits. The biggest reason for doing so? Looking good. But other reasons included making others jealous and making cheating partners regret their infidelities.

Some do see selfies as a positive development.

Psychology professor Pamela Rutledge believes they celebrate 'regular people.' And UCLA psychologist Andrea Letamendi believes that selfies 'allow young adults to express their mood states and share important experiences.'

Some have argued that selfies can boost confidence by showing others how 'awesome' you are, and can preserve important memories.

Still, there are plenty of negative associations with taking selfies. While selfies are sometimes lauded as a means for empowerment, one European study found that time spent looking at social media selfies is associated with negative body image thoughts among young women.

Selfies seem to be this generation's preferred mode of self-expression.

Psychologists who study the self-concept have suggested that our self-image and how we project it is filtered through two criteria: believability (how credible are the claims I make about myself) and beneficiality (how attractive, talented and desirable are the claims I make about myself).

In this sense, the selfie is the perfect medium: it's an easy way to offer proof of an exciting life, extraordinary talent and ability, unique experiences, personal beauty and attractiveness.

As a psychologist, I find it important not only to ask why people post selfies, but also to ask why anyone bothers looking at them.

Evidence suggests that people simply like viewing faces. Selfies attract more attention and more comments than any other photos, and our friends and peers reinforce selfie-taking by doling out 'likes' and other forms of approval on social media.

The craze for capturing selfies leads many people to put their own lives at risk to get the right shot. Scienitsts say selfies can help improve how people feel about themselves, but studies have shown that people who post selfies are also more likely to have lower self esteem (man taking a selfie in front of a burning car pictured)

One explanation for why people are so drawn to looking at selfies could be a psychological framework called social comparison theory.

The theory's originator, Leon Festinger, proposed that people have an innate drive to evaluate themselves in comparison with others.

This is done to improve how we feel about ourselves (self-enhancement), evaluate ourselves (self-evaluation), prove we really are the way we think we are (self-verification) and become better than we are (self-improvement).

It's a list that suggests a range of motives that appear quite positive. But reality, unfortunately, is not so upbeat. Those most likely to post selfies appear to have lower self-esteem than those who don't.

In sum, selfies draw attention, which seems like a good thing. But so do car accidents.

The approval that comes from 'likes' and positive comments on social media is rewarding  particularly for the lonely, isolated or insecure.
It is more famously known as the home of the Loch Ness monster, but Nessie may soon face competition for the title from an altogether different man-made beast.

The usually peaceful Scottish sea loch could soon be echoing to the roar of a 40 feet long superboat as it is put through its paces ahead of an attempt to smash the world water speed record.

Nigel Macknight, 60, is hoping to hit 350mph on the water with his Quicksilver turbofan-powered vessel in an attempt to beat the 317.58mph achieved by Australian Ken Warby 38 years ago.

The Quicksilver superboat (artist's impression pictured) will be capable of achieving 350mph when complete, according to the team behind the vessel, which will allow it to beat the world water speed record that has stood for nearly 40 years. They hope to begin testing their boat on Loch Ness

He has now revealed he is considering using Loch Ness to test his vessel ahead of the world record attempt on Coniston Water in the Lake District.

DEADLY GAME TO BREAK RECORDS The fight to beat the water speed record is a dangerous one that has claimed many lives. The first person to top 300mph on land and subsequently break the water speed record four times before World War II was Malcolm Campbell. After he died in 1949, his son Donald took over his fathers mantle, breaking the water speed record seven consecutive times with his Bluebird vessel. Sadly, his attempt to break it an eighth time ended in tragedy in 1967 when his vessel flipped and broke apart on Coniston Water. Within six months of his death a team of Americans broke his record of 276.3mph. British racing driver John Cobb died on Loch Ness in 1952 when a flaw in the bow of his vessel, the Crusader, caused it to collapse and nosedive when travelling at more than 200mph. Since Ken Warby set the new record in 1978, two attempts have been made by American drivers, in 1981 and 1989, but both ended in tragedy. Advertisement

No testing is allowed on Coniston, so the Quicksilver team have been searching for somewhere to trial the technology they have been developing for the 3.5 tonne boat.

Mr Macknight is due to outline his plan at an event in Inverness next month, which will be held at the town's Eden Court theatre.

He said: 'I am confident we can break the record.

'When a record has stood for the best part of 40 years, it's more likely to be beaten. Technology has moved on a lot in that time.

'You have to have respect for the danger, but I don't think you go through what you are doing with too many nerves because getting the boat designed and built has been a huge job, consuming thousands of hours of my life.

'We are looking for people to come forward from the time of the Cobb disaster.

'It will be a big thing for people in the north of Scotland, particularly for those living around Inverness and Loch Ness.'

Mr Macknight first began designing and building the boat he hopes to use for the attempt on the world record 28 years ago.

However, by testing the boat on Loch Ness, he will be following in the footsteps of tragedy.

British racing driver John Cobb died on Loch Ness in 1952 when a flaw in the bow of his vessel, the Crusader, caused it to collapse and nosedive when travelling at more than 200mph.

The Quicksilver boat uses a turbo-fan engine (air intake visible in an artist's impression pictured) and has been designed to overcome the stability problems that ended previous attempts to beat the water speed record

The huge turbofan engine (pictured) will drive the Quicksilver boat at speeds of up to 350mph. However, the team are unable to test the technology on Coniston Water in the Lake District where the record attempt will be held and so are turning to Loch Ness in the hope to putting the vessel through its paces

Nigel Macknight and his team have spend 28 years designing and building the Quicksilver vessel (pictured) in the hope that it will be able to break a record that has stood for nearly four decades

The Quicksilver team have so far only been able to conduct model testing but began construction on the full-sized vessel (pictured) last year

The water speed record is seen as one of the most dangerous and difficult records to break. Attempts have often claimed the lives of those trying to outdo the achievements of the past.

The first person to top 300mph on land and subsequently break the water speed record four times before World War II was Malcolm Campbell.

He died in 1949, but his son Donald took over his father's mantle and broke the water speed record seven consecutive times using the famous Bluebird model.

The 3.8 tonne Quicksilver boat will be 40 feet long when complete and has a 10,000bhp Rolls Royce engine positioned at the front for extra stability (artist's impression pictured)

Nigel Macknight (pictured) says he was inspired by watching Donald Campbell's efforts to break the water speed record and hopes to do it himself within the next two decades

Donald attempted to break the record for an eighth time in 1967 but tragically died in his attempt at Coniston water.

Since Ken Warby set the new record in 1978, two attempts have been made by American drivers, in 1981 and 1989, but both ended in tragedy.

Mr Macknight has made his boat 50% bigger than the Bluebird model used by the Campbells and it has a one-tonne, 10,000bhp Rolls Royce engine positioned at the front for extra stability.

The Quicksilver team have so far only been able to conduct model testing but began construction on the full-sized vessel last year.
Microsofts HoloLens is bringing Star Wars style holographic communication a step closer to reality.

A recent Microsoft Research video shows how the $3000 augmented reality system can be used to transmit 3D models of people anywhere in the world for face-to-face communication.

These 3D holograms are interactive and operate in real time, allowing users to feel as though theyre in the same room, even if theyre thousands of miles apart.

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Microsofts HoloLens is taking huge steps in bringing teleportation closer to reality. A recent Microsoft Research video shows how the $3000 augmented reality system can be used to transmit 3D models of people anywhere in the world for face-to-face communication

In the video, Partner Research Manager Shahram Izadi demonstrates how this technology works.

Izadi stands in a room where he is surrounded by 3D capture technology, using multiple cameras to track him from separate angles.

Then, the data are fused together to construct a temporally consistent model.

This is paired with a HoloLens tracking system, which enables the holoportation.

The tracking system takes the 3D models created from all the data, and composites them in real time into the real world, according to Izadi.

In the video, Izadi shows how the device can seemingly bring users together even when theyre in separate rooms.

These 3D holograms are interactive and operate in real time, allowing users to feel as though theyre in the same room, even if theyre thousands of miles apart. The tracking system takes the 3D models created from all the data, and composites them in real time into the real world

HOLOLENS AUGMENTED REALITY Earlier this month, Microsoft invited pre-approved developers of the augmented reality goggles to put in their orders that are set to ship March 30th. Orders will contain the HoloLens development edition that includes the headset, a clicker for interacting with applications, a carrying case, nose pads and overheads straps. The headset is designed with multiple environment understanding sensors and powered by a custom-built Microsoft Holographic Processing Unit (HPU) and an Intel 32-bit architecture. The device weighs just a little over one pound and consists of a 64GB of Flash memory and 2GB of RAM. The battery lasts for about two to three hours, with up to two weeks of standby time, says Microsoft. HoloLens has 'see-through holographic lens' that use an optical projection system to create multi-dimensional full-colour holograms. In order to achieve this, the device has an optimal holographic density of 2.5k radiants. Advertisement

Imagine being able to virtually teleport from one space to another in real time, Izadi says.

A remote participant, who is actually in a different lab room, is seen projected in the room with the presenter.

With each person wearing the HoloLens, the users will be able to see each other as if they were standing in the same space.

The hologram-person can be seen sitting down on a chair in the room, walking around the coffee table, and high-fiving Izadi.

In real life, the person can be seen doing these actions alone in a separate room.

The researchers say this technology can bring distant family members together, allowing them to talk face to face.

Izadi also demonstrates these capabilities with his daughter, who was in a separate lab room.

As his daughter is not wearing the headset, he can see her, but she cant see him.

Izadi stands in a room where he is surrounded by 3D capture technology, using multiple cameras to track him from separate angles. Then, the data are fused together to construct a temporally consistent model. This is paired with a HoloLens tracking system, which enables the holoportation. HoloLens pictured above

The researchers say this technology can bring distant family members together, allowing them to talk face to face. Izadi also demonstrates these capabilities with his daughter, who was in a separate lab room. As his daughter is not wearing the headset, he can see her, but she cant see him

The system has the ability to transmit the models in real time, but it can also playback recordings of hologram actions that have already happened.

This can be used to scale down the models, even projecting the scene onto a space as small as a coffee table.

This is almost like reversing through time, Izadi says, and if I wear my hololens device its almost like walking into a living memory.

The researcher says this creates a magical way of experiencing memories and interactions with loved ones.

Microsofts HoloLens is bringing Star Wars style holographic communication a step closer to reality
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Whether they feature a standard paint job, celebrate the launch of a Hollywood film or commemorate a cultural icon, airlines are going further than ever before to create eye-catching liveries.

Most planes feature an airline's standard paint job, but every now and then a carrier comes up with a colourful or clever design to wow passengers.

Every day, hundreds of passengers are flown across the Atlantic Ocean on Icelandair's Hekla Aurora plane, which is decorated with a paint scheme inspired by the northern lights.

Inside, the Boeing 757 has a one-of-a-kind LED mood lighting system in the main cabin that recreates the display of the Aurora Borealis.

South African budget carrier Kulula Airlines came up with a clever livery that points out various components of the aircraft, including the jump seat, galley and loo. Featuring a moustache in support of Movember, the plane has an arrow pointing to the cockpit with the words 'the big cheese'.

From a plane featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf from Frozen to one that celebrates the Adventures of Tintin, these are some of the worlds best alternative aeroplane liveries that are currently in the skies.

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Icelandair

Icelandair's Hekla Aurora plane is decorated with the northern lights and flies across the Atlantic Ocean every day of the year

A one-of-a-kind LED mood lighting system inside the Boeing 757's main cabin recreates the display of the Aurora Borealis

Kulula Airlines

South African budget carrier Kulula Airlines came up with this clever livery that points out various components of the aircraft

This livery for Kulula Airlines featured a moustache to coincide with Movember and raise awareness and funds for men's health

Brussels Airlines

This Airbus A320 called Rackham, from Brussels Airlines, celebrates The Adventures of Tintin, created by Belgian cartoonist Herge

The passenger jet is disguised as the famous shark submarine from the 1944 Tintin album Red Rackhams Treasure

This image shows how a Brussels Airlines employee can't resist taking a snap of the startling Tintin livery

All Nippon Airways

All Nippon Airways' Boeing 777 featuring a Pokemon livery is currently used on domestic routes between Tokyo and Sapporo

WestJet

More than 170 gallons of paint were used to create this Frozen-themed livery on a Boeing 737 for Canadian airline WestJet

Anna, Elsa and Olaf are all featured on WestJet's Frozen-themed plane, which was its second collaboration with the Walt Disney Company

Snow joke: The tailgate of this WestJet plane is decorated with a giant Elsa and Anna, making the plane an eye-catching sight

EVA Air

Taiwan's EVA Air has several liveries featuring Hello Kitty. This Airbus A330 flies between Taipei and Manila, Seoul and Hong Kong

All Nippon Airways

Japanese carrier All Nippon Airways painted three planes with Star Wars liveries, including this R2-D2 theme, to celebrate the latest film

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner with the R2-D2 paint job has been used on routes from Tokyo (Haneda) to Beijing, Paris and Sydney

Air New Zealand

Before the premiere of the second film in The Hobbit trilogy, Air New Zealand unveiled this livery featuring images of the dragon Smaug
Airplane loos have been the subject of much debate and rumour over the years.

Questions travellers have argued over include 'is the waste flushed out of the plane mid-air?' and 'can the door open from the outside?'

Here MailOnline Travel lifts the lid on in-flight loos and gives you the plane facts.

Pilots cannot dump human waste while in the sky

The FAA says it always investigates reports of human waste that has fallen from the sky and it almost always turns out to be bird droppings

Waste from aeroplanes is held in a tank until the aircraft lands. The tank can only be emptied using an exterior lever, so it is physically impossible for the pilot to empty the tank while the plane is in the air, according to an FAA fact sheet.

However, people regularly report falling waste incidents, often concerning 'blue ice'.

Some believe that this is human waste that has been coloured blue by a chemical added to the toilet water and frozen at high altitudes, before being dumped from an aeroplane or leaked from the holding tank.

The FAA says it always investigates reports of human waste that has fallen from the sky and it almost always turns out to be bird droppings.

Flushing the chain could block your ears

According to toiletguru.com, flushing the toilet at 30,000ft may cause a change in the pressure you feel in your ears.

The website reveals that when using an aircraft vacuum system, the toilet cabin's pressure may jump from five to 20 metres.

The sudden change affects the pocket of air inside your ear. This pocket is normally at the same pressure as the air outside of your ear. However, if the air outside changes in pressure you often feel a pushing on your eardrum that can make your ear feel blocked, Physics.org reveals.

Once the pressure is equalised, you will feel a pop.

Smoking is banned, but the bathrooms are required to have ashtrays

The US' Code of Federal Regulation states: 'Regardless of whether smoking is allowed in any other part of the aeroplane, lavatories must have self-contained, removable ashtrays located conspicuously on or near the entry side of each lavatory door...'

BRITISH AIRWAYS FLIGHT RETURNED DUE TO 'SMELLY POO IN THE TOILET' Cabin crew were unable to fix the problem and the smell became unbearable for passengers seated nearby Last year a town councillor from Hertfordshire revealed that a British Airways flight to Dubai was forced to return to London due to a foul odour emanating from an overflowing toilet. Hertsmere councillor Abhishek Sachdev, who represents Potters Bar Parkfield, said the seven-hour flight was aborted 'because of a smelly poo in the toilet'. Cabin crew were unable to fix the problem and the smell became unbearable for passengers seated nearby, forcing the plane to turn around near Brussels and land at Heathrow Airport. Advertisement

Despite the fact that smoking on planes has been banned for over a decade, aircraft are obliged to provide ashtrays so that if if a smoker succumbs to temptation, they can dispose of their cigarette butt safely.

The US' Code of Federal Regulation states: 'Regardless of whether smoking is allowed in any other part of the aeroplane, lavatories must have self-contained, removable ashtrays located conspicuously on or near the entry side of each lavatory door...'

The European Aviation Safety Agency has similar guidelines in place, with one ashtray on the inside of each aircraft toilet fitted by law.

This requirement is part of the minimum master equipment list, which stipulates the equipment each aircraft must have in order to fly.

Your waste is sucked out by a machine after landing

In book Cockpit Confidential, airline pilot Patrick Smith reveals that waste is not just dropped from a plane - but stored and later sucked out by a vacuum.

He said that during the 1980s, toilets on planes used a blue liquid that pushed waste from the bowl into a storage tank.

HOUSE GUEST'S SHOCK AS 'FROZEN EXCREMENT' CRASHES THROUGH ROOF A three-foot hole was ripped into the ceiling of the house Stephanie Moore was sleeping in - and she believes it could have been caused by waste dropped from a passing plane A teacher in Canada recently claimed a frozen lump of excrement from a plane passing overhead ripped a hole in the roof of her mother's house. Stephanie Moore was woken by the crashing noise, and looked up to discover a huge hole in the ceiling less than 15 feet from where she was sleeping. She was staying at her mother's house in Ontario, Canada, after returning from a holiday in Cuba. Advertisement

This liquid added weight to the aircraft, which consumed more fuel as a result, and if it leaked, frozen blocks of waste could end up falling over town and cities.

On modern-day planes, such as the ones Smith flies, this toilet system has been replaced by a vacuum. When the toilet is flushed a valve opens to a sewer pipe and the waste is sucked into a tank.

The waste is then stored in the tank until the plane lands and ground crew vacuum it out and dispose of it.

You can open the divider between toilets on larger planes

In December, MailOnline Travel reported on an air hostess who revealed the shocking and hilarious secrets of her job on YouTube star Riyadh Khalaf's latest video.

Two minutes into the footage, steward 'Mary' said that passengers who are lucky enough to be on a larger plane can connect two toilets together by 'collapsing the partition wall' between the two with the flick of a latch, 'making it easier to join the mile high club'.

She said: 'If you're lucky enough to be on a flight to New York or Orlando, they're bigger planes.

'There is a few toilets that are joined together by latches. So if you find the switch to unlock the latch and you know, join the two toilets together.'

Aeroplanes do NOT have to have a working lavatory

According to Thrillist, the FAA do not have a requirement that states that commercial aeroplanes must have a working bathroom on board.

So passengers who wait at the gate and assume they can relieve themselves once on board may be in for a shock.

In fact, in 2015 a two-and-a-half hour flight from Westchester to Chicago took off without a single working toilet on board.

You CAN get stuck on the toilet if you flush while sitting down

It is possible to get stuck on a toilet if your body forms a perfect seal on the toilet seat.

However, this is very difficult to do. The Mythbusters presenters tested this theory and though Adam Savage experienced strong suction he was able to break the seal and stand up.

Toilets are not the dirtiest part of a plane

Research in 2015 revealed that fold-down tables are the dirtiest surfaces on a plane  with more germs found on tray tables than toilets and seatbelt buckles combined.

The study, which was created by Travelmath, found tray tables have 2,155 colony-forming units (CFU) per square inch, far more than the lavatory flush button (265 CFU), overhead air vent (285 CFU) and seatbelt buckle (230 CFU).
Just like any proud mother, Kim Kardashian is always more than happy to take photos of her family.

Easter was of course no exception, with the 35-year-old doting mother sharing a series of images from her family get-together at her Bel-Air mansion, including an especially adorable video of her husband Kanye West dressed up as an Easter bunny.

The couple's two-year-old daughter North West rushed to her father's embrace, eliciting many 'awws' from the crowd gathered.

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Daddy's little girl: North West rushed into the embrace of her her dressed-up father Kanye West on Easter

North first gave Tyga a big huge, as the rapper was also dressed up as an Easter bunny.

Even in his rabbit costume, Kylie Jenner couldn't resist giving her rapper boyfriend a kiss.

See more on Kanye West as he and Tyga dress up as Easter bunnies for family

The 18-year-old shared a playful video of herself giving him a light peck as he sported the fluffy get-up.

Kim, meanwhile, also shared a Snapchat video of North playing with her cousins Mason and Penelope with their wicker baskets.

Pucker up! Kylie Jenner kissed her dressed-up boyfriend Tyga

Giggle fit: The girls had some fun following Kanye around in his costume

All together now! Kanye and Tyga treated their family members and guests to unforgettable photos

'Easter', Kim scrawled upon the video, including a cute rabbit emoji.

Kim also posted an adorable snap of her newborn son Saint resting on her lap, an image that put only his tiny legs and feet in view.

The reality star even recruited her grandmother Mary Jo and nephew Mason in the Snapchat silliness, utilizing the app's features to superimpose an evil bunny face over their own.

Come here! Jenner pulled her beau in for a tight squeeze

Hop to it! Kim was more than happy to share a cute Snapchat clip of her daughter North playing with her cousins Mason and Penelope on Easter Sunday

Proud mama: The reality stardorable snap of her little son Saint resting on her lap, an image that put only his legs and feet in view

Family first: Kim's eldest daughter and her niece wore a pair of white bunny ears as they danced in circles with Mason, holding wicker baskets

So scary! The 35-year-old even recruited her grandmother Mary Jo and her nephew Mason in the Snapchat silliness, utilizing the app's features to superimpose an evil bunny face over their own

Mary Jo laughed as she watched herself turn into a screaming rabbit on the cell phone screen.

The family even brought in a batch of bunnies, who enjoyed the fresh air outside inside a pen.

Kylie couldn't resist cuddling one of the white bunnies, and she shared a clip of herself gazing down at the rabbit as it rested in her arms.

Hello there: Kylie Jenner cuddled a soft white bunny in her arms

Lovebirds: The teen's boyfriend Tyga also joined in the family fun, with Kylie sharing a clip of him resting his chin against her shoulder

Sister act! Khloe Kardashian showed off her long nails as she cosied up to her younger sister

Kylie also shared a video of herself nuzzled up with her boyfriend Tyga, who rested his head against her shoulder.

Khloe Kardashian and her estranged husband Lamar Odom were even featured in Kylie's Snapchat silliness, with the teen sharing a clip of herself snuggling up to her big sister.

'You're so cute!' Kylie raved.

'Who's cuter?' Khloe asked, before changing the angle of the camera to Lamar and gushing over the pair of white bunny ears he wore.

Look who's here: Jenner panned the video to include Lamar, who was took a seat to her left

Getting goofy: The mother-of-three had rabbit ears and a nose superimposed over her face

Swag! The 36-year-old shared her sweet and envy-inducing gifts, which included a Chanel purchase and of course plenty of chocolate

Elsewhere on the property, Kourtney Kardashian also got in on the Snapchat fun.

The stunning 36-year-old was surrounded by playful Easter eggs as she donned a pair of rabbit ears and nose.

Kourtney was also more than happy to share a snap of her Easter treats, which included a Chanel gift and a number of decadent chocolates.

Silly stuff: Kourtney had some fun superimposing tongues over family members

'Cuties': Even Kendall Jenner jumped into the Snapchat fun, sharing a snap of Lamar and Kylie dancing

Let's dance! Lamar didn't shy away from showing off his dancing skills

Kylie also shared a snap of their long outdoor dinner table, which still had the rose floral arrangements used the previous day from Chrissy Teigen's baby shower.

Nearly 24 hours earlier, Kim's home was the site for Chrissy's big bash, where guests were served McDonald's and Taco Bell.

Chrissy's musician husband John Legend was also at the event which saw Kim putting her mansion to good use as she and husband Kanye West continue their attempts to sell the home.

Hello petal: Kim recycled the white rose bouquets that served as the center piece of Chrissy Teigen's baby shower on Saturday for the big holiday the very next day

Fun and games! Jenner shared a snap of her creation, a white bunny rabbit created out of cotton balls and googly eyes

Kardashian matriarch Kris was along among the famous faces to attend, while actress Jenna Dewan Tatum, sportscaster Erin Andrews, Kardashian family friend Malika Haqq, their hairstylist Jen Atkin and FABLife's Leah Ashley were also at the bash.

Meanwhile, Kanye has recently released a brand new song, Ultralight Prayer.

The song was dropped on Easter and includes Kelly Price's vocals and gospel musician Kirk Franklin providing a sermon, according to Rap-Up.

The perfect fit! Kardashian showed off her new and cosy pair of sneakers
Their raunchy tour outfits have been causing a stir recently.

However, Little Mix remained defiant as they flaunted their figures in skimpy latex outfits as part of their Get Weird tour on Sunday night.

The girl band took to the stage at London's O2 Arena in super-sexy mesh leotards and catsuits.

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Mixing it up: Little Mix rocked super-sexy mesh and latex outfits as their Get Weird tour hit London's O2 Arena on Sunday night

And the sassy singers left little to the imagination as they showed off their endless legs and ample assets.

Jesy Nelson, 24, put on a particularly busty display in an outfit which exposed her glittering bra and thigh tattoo.

While Perrie Edwards, 22, kept her modesty thanks to some carefully placed latex panels.

All the girls topped off their ensembles with unusual black feathers and individually styled hair.

See more updates on Little Mix as their Get Weird tour comes to London

Leaving little (mix) to the imagination: The sassy singers showed off their endless legs and ample assets in the revealing ensembles

Black magic: All the girls topped off their ensembles with unusual black feathers and individually styled hair

Defiant: The girl group was recently slammed by fans for their over sexualised outfits. However they fought back as they claimed that they won't be able to wear stuff like this forever

Little minx: Jesy Nelson put on a particularly busty display, whereas Perrie kept her dignity thanks to some carefully placed latex panels

Perrie kept her look fresh with her hair scraped back into a high ponytail, which exposed her revealing outfit.

Meanwhile, her bandmates rocked glamorous waves for the performance.

The girls all oozed confidence as they stepped out on the stage for another energetic performance, as part of the tour which started earlier this month.

Oozing confidence: The girls gave a typically energetic performance as part of their Get Weird tour, which started earlier this month

Comfort first: The girls, including Jade (left) and Jesy (right) all wore practical black boots to complement their revealing outfits

Daring to bare: Little Mix certainly seemed happy to flaunt their figures in the revealing on-stage ensembles as their Get Weird tour hit London on Sunday

Stunning singers: the girls looked chic in their all-black outfits, which they accessorised with unusual black feathers

The XXX Factor: Perrie writhed around the stage with the male backing dancers, who wore equally saucy outfits

And an out-going Perrie was seen to writhe around flirtatiously with the male dancers.

Little Mix also wore a number of other daring outfits throughout the London gig, including the controversial red leotards that saw them gain a great deal of backlash from fans.

The X Factor group also opted for sparkling silver ensembles that gave the illusion they were baring more flesh than they were thanks to a nude underlay.

However, the girls also showed off their more innocent side with glittering tracksuit tops.

Cover up: The girls wore black and silver embellished capes on top of their skimpy stage ensembles

Keeping it cute: The girls showed their more youthful side as they matched their leotards with playful sequined tracksuit tops

Fabulous figures: The girls gave a glimpse of their toned stomachs as they danced energetically across the stage

Not so little mix: Little Mix wore a number of other daring outfits throughout the London gig, including the controversial red leotards that originally launched complaints

And they recently defended their outfit choices as they claimed that they arent going to be able to wear stuff like this forever.

Little Mix were support by Nathan Sykes on Sunday.

The 22-year-old is best known for being the youngest member of boy band, The Wanted.

The tour will see the girls take on the challenge of performing 33 shows in 14 cities before taking their show international with concerts in Australia and Japan

Ladies in red: Perrie kept her look fresh with her hair scraped back into a high ponytail, while the other girls sported stylish curls

Working it: Jesy Nelson showed off her sexy side as she danced around on a throne in front of a male backing dancer

Love me like you: An out-going Perrie Edwards, 22, was seen to writhe around flirtatiously with the male dancers

Shine on: The X Factor group also opted for sparkling silver ensembles that gave the illusion they were baring more flesh than they were thanks to a nude underlay
Since her divorce from Prince Andrew 20 years ago, Sarah Ferguson has kept her love life a closely guarded secret  until now.

I can reveal that two years after making her first public appearance with dashing technology guru Manuel Fernandez  who has been dubbed her toyboy lover  Fergie is now setting the record straight.

Manuel is a wonderful person, but we are just friends  friends and business partners, she tells me at a private view in Mayfair. Im the ambassador for his new lifestyle app, vVoosh, which is launching this year.

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Two years after making her first public appearance with dashing technology guru Manuel Fernandez  who has been dubbed her toyboy lover  Fergie is now setting the record straight

Two weeks ago, it was reported the 56-year-old was devastated after being dumped by Fernandez.

Flame-haired Fergie then raised eyebrows when, just one week later, she brought the 48-year-old to a party in London.

But now they say there was never a romance at all! Weve always been friends, adds Fernandez, who co-founded vVoosh five years ago.

Its like, last week I dumped her, this week Im probably going to get back with her. Thats never been the case. Were friends. Dont I get a say in my own life? Finally, he does.

Thanks to her role in period costume drama Poldark, actress Heida Reed rarely had the chance to display her enviable legs.

So the Icelandic-born 27-year-old couldnt wait to kick off her shoes and reveal those shapely pins while posing in a headstand on a recent holiday to Thailand alongside fellow actor, Grantchester star Tom Austen.

At least Austen has kept his feet on the ground.

Thanks to her role in period costume drama Poldark, actress Heida Reed rarely had the chance to display her enviable legs, but she has now, alongside fellow actor, Grantchester star Tom Austen

It's been a tough month for David Cameron, but its also been one of celebration  as he has just become an uncle for the 15th time.

The Prime Minister informs me that he is delighted by the news that Flora Astor, the half-sister of his wife Samantha, has given birth to a girl named Lydia. Ive always liked the name, Flora, 39, tells me. Lydia was born last Tuesday and weighed around 7lb 8oz, which is a good size.

The London-based jeweller, who shares a mother, Annabel Astor, with SamCam, also has Nelson, seven, and four-year-old Pandora with her diplomat husband Theo Rycroft.

Stage and screen star Ralph Fiennes admits to having a compulsive problem.

Im an obsessive cleaner. And Im a straightener of things  everything is lined up in piles, says the 53-year-old.

But if things get disordered, its difficult for me.
Cody Simpson is no stranger to going barefoot when he enjoys some downtime near the beach in Malibu.

And it was no different on Saturday when the 19-year-old skipped the shoes as he picked up some lunch in the oceanside city in California.

The La Da Dee hitmaker rocked a low-key style wearing baggy jeans and a T-shirt as he strolled.

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Laid-back! Cody Simpson on Saturday was spotted going barefoot in Malibu, California, as she picked up lunch

His top was navy blue and featured a cartoon print, while his jeans were black and had a silver chain hanging off them.

Cody - who hails from the Gold Coast but is now based in Los Angeles - accessorised his look with a black trucker cap which he wore backwards and sunglasses.

He also wore a black bracelet on his left hand and some silver rings on his fingers.

Fueling up: Cody appeared in high spirits on the day as he clutched a black takeaway dish, a large bottle of water and his phone in his hands

Cody appeared in high spirits on the day as he clutched a black takeaway dish, a large bottle of water and his phone in his hands.

He appeared to be flying solo for the outing, with it coming just a day before he was also spotted being introduced to two gorgeous models Emma Hernan and Ella Rose at Malibu, as they prepared for a photoshoot.

He has been based in the US since 2010 and recently reflected on his time in Australia.

Making new friends? He appeared to be flying solo for the outing, with it coming just a day before he was also spotted being introduced to two gorgeous models Emma Hernan and Ella Rose (left) at Malibu

Hot to trot: Models Emma Hernan and Ella Rose are seen here at Malibu, as they completed a photoshoot for a water brand

Last week, he shared a throwback snap of himself as a child in a swimming pool during primary school, shortly after he revealed his school swimming records are still 'holding up' seven years later.

The record sheet reveals that Cody still holds two state records for 100m and 50m butterfly in his age bracket, set back in 2009 when he was just 12 years old.

At the time, Cody was a full-time student at All Saints Anglican School in Merrimac - and would sign with Atlantic Records in the US just one year later.

Sweet: Last week, he shared a throwback snap of himself as a child in a swimming pool during primary school, shortly after he revealed his school swimming records are still 'holding up' seven years later
They have been through thick and thin, supporting each other from their humble high school days in Australia to the peak of their Hollywood carers, with their friendship proving to stand the test of time, even in the volatile world of showbusiness.

However on Monday Woman's Day reported that Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts were no longer friends and now 'barely talk.'

But a source close to Nicole has denied the claims as 'silly and completely untrue,' telling Daily Mail Australia on Monday that the pair are 'still very good friends.'

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'They are still very good friends': A source close to Nicole Kidman exclusively told Daily Mail Australia on Monday that Woman's Day's claims of a rift with pal Naomi Watts as 'silly and completely untrue'

The insider laughed off any reports of a rift between the close friends, labeling the rumours as 'nonsense' and saying: 'There is absolutely no truth to the reports, they are very good friends and there is no reason why they wouldn't be.'

Despite the pair living in different states, with 48-year-old Nicole based in Nashville and Naomi, 47, in Los Angeles, the source claimed the pair still catch up with one another on a regular basis.

'They are very much girlfriends and very much still in touch and have get-togethers all the time,' the source explained.

Last week, British-born Naomi told Net-A-Porter's The Edit, that the duo still loved to catch up but admitted that they had 'big gaps' between visits.

'We're busy people living in different places,' she admitted.

'Nonsense': The source laughed off any reports of a rift between the close friends, saying: 'There is absolutely no truth to the reports, they are very good friends and there is no reason why they wouldn't be'

'They have get-togethers all the time': The source claimed the pair still catch up with one another on a regular basis, despite living in different states

On Monday, Woman's Day reported that Nicole and Naomi were no longer friends and now 'barely talk.'

The publication claimed that a 'bitter rivalry' had driven the Aussie actresses apart.

The magazine detailed that the friends put on a united front at industry events, and would pose for the odd photograph together despite their 'ongoing feud.'

Rumours: On Monday, Woman's Day reported that Nicole and Naomi were no longer friends and now 'barely talk,' saying a 'bitter rivalry' had driven the Aussie actresses apart

The publication claimed that a point of contention in their pair's relationship was the fact that Naomi had remained friendly with Nicole's ex-husband Tom Cruise.

'Naomi insisted she didn't want to damage her reputation in Hollywood by bad-mouthing Tom - Nic felt betrayed by that, especially as Naomi and Tom have been quite friendly over the years,' the source told the publication.

The publication also claimed that the women's 'fiercely competitive' natures had driven them apart.

Point of contention? The publication claimed that a point of contention in their pair's relationship was the fact that Naomi had remained friendly with Nicole's ex-husband Tom Cruise

Nicole and Naomi's friendship goes way back to when they both attended North Sydney Girls High School, where they were just one year apart.

The two actresses were then cast in an Australian coming-of-age comedy/drama Flirting (1991).

In April last year, The Ring star spoke to Express about how her friendship with Nicole saved her from crippling low self-esteem that nearly shut down her acting career before it really got started.

'I was lucky that Nicole Kidman was always there to support me, console me, keep my spirits up and help me believe in myself,' she said.

'Shes been such a good friend over the years.'

Old friends: Nicole and Naomi's friendship goes way back to when they both attended North Sydney Girls High School, where they were just one year apart. Pictured here in 2009 with Heath Ledger

The film Flirting was the one and only time the actresses have worked together, but they have both expressed a keenness to do so again.

'We've been looking for a long time now. But both of us havepicky tastes. It has to be the right piece,' Naomi told E! in 2013.

'Somebody think of something, please!' exclaimed Nicole.

Similar success: Both actresses have starred as iconic princesses, with Naomi playing Princess Diana in 2014 film Diana (left), while Nicole starred as Grace Kelly in Grace Of Monaco in 2013 (right)

Family ties: Nicole has two girls, Sunday Rose (right), seven, and Faith Margaret (left), five with husband Keith Urban

Family ties: Naomi has two boys, Alexander (right), eight, and Samuel (left), seven with partner Liev Schrieber

From their humble beginnings, the pair have remained by each others sides as they took on Hollywood welcoming similar successes in their respective careers.

Both actresses have starred as iconic princesses, with Nicole playing Princess Diana in 2014 film Diana, while Naomi starred as Grace Kelly in Grace Of Monaco in 2013.

The pair also have two children - Nicole two girls, Sunday Rose, seven, and Faith Margaret, five, while Naomi has two boys, Alexander, eight, and Samuel, seven.

However, the similarities don't end there, with both stars being in their relationships with partners Keith Urban and Liev Screiber for 11 years.

Soul mates: Both stars have been in their relationships for 11 years with Nicole enjoying a long-term relationship with partner Keith whom she married in 2006

Cute couple: Naomi has also been with partner Liev Schreiber for 11 years




Her personal life was left in turmoil following her split with ex-husband Grant Hackett.

But things continue to look up for Candice Alley as she embarks on a new chapter in her professional life.

The 33-year-old singer has nabbed a recurring guest role on Australia's longest running soap drama Neighbours, and while she says she is 'thrilled' with the opportunity, she admits her character is 'a bit of a bad girl.'

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'Thrilled!': Candice Alley has nabbed a recurring guest role on Australia's longest running soap drama Neighbours, and admits her character is 'a bit of a bad girl'

The Melbourne-based songwriter said she jumped at the chance to play the role of the 'mysterious woman'.

'I auditioned for it and got the call up within a few days - I was absolutely thrilled!' she told New Idea on Monday.

'I use to act when I was very young and I really wanted to get back into it,' she said.

'I feel so fortunate to be part of such an iconic Australian series': After appearing on the popular drama in November last year, Candice's character will be making a return in 2016 to continue the story

The single mother-of-two will star alongside Ramsay Street veterans including Carla Bonner and Stefan Dennis.

'I use to watch them when I was younger, so it was a blessing to get the role and be part of such a iconic show,' she gushed to the publication.

After appearing on the popular drama in November last year, Candice's character will be making a return in 2016 to continue the story.

The blonde beauty, who filmed her scenes in August, plays Cecilia Saint, an intriguing character who is caught up in a plot to unhinge a Ramsay Street favourite.

'With such a love for acting I feel so fortunate to be part of such an iconic Australian series and working with such an amazing team of people,' Candice said in a statement from Channel Ten.

Talented: Candice originally shot to fame in 2003 with her self-penned single Falling for which she was nominated for an ARIA Song Of The Year Award

Candice originally shot to fame in 2003 with her self-penned single Falling.

She was nominated for an ARIA Song Of The Year Award the same year, and in 2004 the song received an APRA Award for Most Performed Single.

Of late, her music career has taken a backseat to caring for her six-year-old twins Jagger and Charlize.

Moving on: The role comes as Candice is still trying to move forward from her break-up with the Olympic swimmer after the pair divorced in 2013 after five years of marriage

The role comes as Candice is still trying to move forward from her break-up with the Olympic swimmer.

The pair announced in March 2012 they were separating, before divorcing in 2013 after five years of marriage.

'Towards the end, the hurt was too exhausting and depleting for me to continue the marriage. When we separated, there were no tears because I had run out,' Candice told New Idea in 2015.

Love lost: The sportsman left fans shocked in 2011 when allegations emerged he had trashed the penthouse he shared with Candice and their twin sons in an alcohol-fuelled rage

The sportsman left fans shocked in 2011 when allegations emerged he had trashed the penthouse he shared with Candice and their twin sons in an alcohol-fuelled rage.

In 2014, Grant was pictured wandering around half-naked in frantic search of his son Jagger at Melbourne's Crown casino.

He soon checked himself into rehab to treat his addiction to sleeping tablets Stilnox.

He caused a media furore weeks later when he was accused of not apologising to Candice for the incident during an interview with Channel 9's 60 Minutes.

Meanwhile, in December last year, it was reported that Grant was suing two law firms claiming they caused him financial loss after his and Candice's pre-nup was found to be not binding.

Both law firms said they provided legal advice and a civil trial is expected to begin in the Victorian Supreme Court in April.

Both law firms deny any liability.

Troubled past: The former Olympian later checked himself into rehab to treat his addiction to sleeping tablets Stilnox
She's proved to be her own best advertisement for her eponymous swimwear collection.

So Kimberley Garner stepped up yet again to model her latest line in the Caribbean island of Anguilla this month, flaunting her incredible figure in a bikini of her own design.

Slipping into a jungle print two-piece, the 26-year-old reality star put on a sizzling display as she posed up a storm for her shoot.

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Stunning: She's proved to be her own best advertisement, so Kimberley Garner stepped up to model her latest line in the Caribbean island of Anguilla this month, flaunting her incredible figure in a bikini of her own design

The former Made In Chelsea star ensured the photographer captured every inch of her Kimberly London two-piece, contorting her body for the camera.

Slipping into the bikini, Kimberley looked every inch the model as she flashed a glimpse of her modest cleavage in the skimpy triangle top.

Keen to showcase her famously perky posterior, the blonde beauty barely concealed her curves in tiny bottoms that featured a little gold disk, synonymous with her collection.

Chic: Slipping into a jungle print bikini, the 26-year-old reality star put on a sizzling display as she posed up a storm for her shoot ensuring the photographer captured every inch of her Kimberly London two-piece

Pert: Keen to showcase her famously perky posterior, the blonde beauty barely concealed her curves in tiny bottoms that featured a little gold disk, synonymous with her collection

Popping her hip and stretching her arms over her head, the E4 star showed off her enviably toned abs and lean legs, throwing her head back in abandon.

Wearing her golden tresses loose and tousled in beachy waves, she kept her glossy locks away from her face by weaving the front into an intricate french braid.

With her flawless features on full display, Kimberley opted for a neutral make-up palette that merely accentuated her natural beauty, sporting a subtle sweep of rouge across her cheekbones.

The long stretch: Kimberley showed off her enviably toned stomach as she arched her back for the shoot

Blonde beauty: Wearing her golden tresses loose and tousled in beachy waves, she kept her glossy locks away from her face by weaving the front section into an intricate french braid

Kimberley launched her brand in 2013 and is extremely passionate about keeping her designs British.

She said: 'It's always been important to me that we support the incredible talent here in the UK.

'I've built such strong relationships with teams here and our pieces truly are the Best of British.'

Natural beauty: With her flawless features on full display, Kimberley opted for a neutral make-up that merely accentuated her natural beauty, sporting a subtle sweep of rouge across her cheekbones

Forever glam: Kimberley showed off her phenomenal figure from every angle

Posing up a storm: Popping her hip and stretching her arms over her head, the E4 star showed off her enviably toned abs and lean legs, throwing her head back in abandon

Cheeky! Kimberley ensured her most famous asset was on display as she put her back to the camera

While she has enjoyed huge success with the brand, in 2013 she ran into legal trouble when underwear giant Agent Provocateur took Kimberley to court.

The British lingerie brand accused the willowy blonde of copying one of its swimwear designs.

According to the underwear retailer, which was founded in 1994, Kimberley's swimwear label, Kimberley London, was selling a bikini that was too similar to one of its own bestsellers.

Jungle Jane: Kimberley looked at home in the jungle setting as she rifled through her beach bag

Ready for a close-up: Kimberley worked the camera like a professional on the photoshoot
She has been open in the past about wearing the pants in her marriage.

And during Monday night's episode of My Kitchen Rules Zana Pali took control of the heated kitchen as she and husband Gianni Romano cooked during the outdoor cinema challenge.

In an attempt to cater for 75 families the 24-year-old took a swipe at her partner for slacking off before serving time.

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Heating up: My Kitchen Rules Zana Pali took control of the heated kitchen on Monday night as she and husband cooked their hearts out during the outdoor cinema challenge

As they created lamb souvlaki with lemon potatoes and Greek salad for their dish Zana was heard yelling 'just move' at Gianni from across the kitchen as she tried to control all of the elements of their plate.

'I can't roll, cook and do everything, do you understand,' she asked while quickly screaming 'control the bread.'

'Just move babe. Stop touching the bl***y oven and just get this off the heat,' she continued as she shifted the cooking pan fried bread over the stove. 'Babe listen to me...team work.'

Task: For the challenge the couple served lamb souvlaki with lemon potatoes and Greek salad

Taking charge: As they created their dish Zana was heard yelling 'just move' at Gianni from across the kitchen as she tried to control all elements of their plate

Not happy: The legal eagle added 'Just move babe, you're moving way too slow. Have you done dressing? Talk to me. Just go. I do not have the time to check everything'

The legal eagle continued: 'Just move babe, you're moving way too slow. Have you done dressing? Talk to me. Just go. I do not have the time to check everything.'

While keeping quiet as Zana yelled instructions across the area Gianni was heard lightly replying: 'It's not easy for a man to multi-task'.

But while the stressed seemed to overtake the couple in the kitchen judge Colin Fassnidge commented that he witnessed the frustration on the plate.

'Your salad was lacking in dressing and the dish showed a little bit of stress. I could see stress in it,' he said.

Knowing his place: While keeping quiet as Zana yelled instructions across the area Gianni was heard lightly replying: 'It's not easy for a man to multi-task'

Back there again: During the on-hour episode Alex (L) and Gareth (R) and Paige and Rosie were sent through to the show's sudden death round in a bid to avoid elimination

Choice: The two Queenslanders created a Cola ribs with onion rings and slaw for their 300 guests

Harsh: While taking a bite, judge Pete Evans commented: 'Your ribs were falling off the bone, I will give you that but that is where it stopped'

Pete added: 'The lamb was under seasoned and was a bit dry too. This wasn't one of my favourites.'

During the one hour episode of My Kitchen Rules Alex and Gareth and Paige and Rosie were sent through to the show's sudden death round in a bid to avoid elimination.

The two Queensland miners found themselves in the bottom two for the second week in a row after serving Cola ribs with onion rings and slaw for their guests.

Pete commented: 'Your ribs were falling off the bone, I will give you that but that is where it stopped. You need to have a balance it can't just be all sweet because then it will be too much.'

Fellow contestants Paige and Rosie were shocked to learn they were sent through to sudden death due to their pulled pork burgers with chicken bites and chips.

Colin said: 'On paper it is a crowd pleaser but if I order a pull pork bun, I want juice coming down my arm and yours didn't deliver.

Down the bottom: Fellow contestants Paige (R) and Rosie (L) also found themselves in the bottom two following the stressful task of feeding 75 families

Let down: The pair were shocked to learn they were sent through to sudden death due to their pulled pork burgers with chicken bites and chips

Time of truth: Pete (R) critiqued the dish, 'There was that much burger bun but not enough filling. Not the best dish I have had by you ladies' while Colin (L) added: 'On paper it is a crowd pleaser but...yours didn't deliver'

'It was a bit dry and you had to work for that moisture. The chicken bites were okay and the chips weren't fluffy.'

But while the two teams prepare to battle it out in the last spot for the next outdoors task, Melbourne sisters Tasia and Gracia became safe for the next two weeks after receiving 'People's Choice' for their Korean fried chicken with miso corn and cabbage salad.

Pete praised the pair for their tasty dish while labelling it a 'masterpiece'.

'You couldn't have cooked the chicken any better than that. It was a textual masterpiece,' he said while Colin added 'It is shouting family at you. It was a good dish, well done.'

My Kitchen Rules' sudden death round will air on Tuesday on Channel Seven at 7.30pm.

Top of their game: But while the two teams prepare to battle it out in the last spot for the next outdoors task, Melbourne sisters Tasia (L) and Gracia (R) became safe for the next two weeks
They are usually seen to be united and strong during every My Kitchen Rules challenges.

But on Monday night mother and son Anna and Jordan found themselves going head-to-head as they failed to serve their Mama's home-made pies with mash and peas on time to their awaiting 300 guests.

Earlier on in the one-hour episode the 23-year-old lost his cool towards his mother as they counted down the time until serving.

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Under pressure: My Kitchen Rules' mother and son Anna and Jordan found themselves going head-to-head on Monday as they failed to serve their challenge dish to 300 awaiting guests on time

With only 15 minutes to go until the doors opened for guests Jordan slammed Anna for failing to place the homemade pies into the over.

'The pies normally take 20 minutes to cook in a hot oven...I don't know what we are going to do,' he commented.

While trying to create the small masterpieces Anna asked her son 'I need an egg wash' to which he replied 'yea do that mum'.

Tasty: For the outdoor challenge the duo created Mama's homemade pies with mash and peas

Hot water: With only 15 minutes to go until the doors opened Jordan slammed Anna for failing to place the pies into the over: 'They take 20 minutes to cook in a hot oven...I don't know what we are going to do'

Helping hand: While trying to create the small masterpieces Anna asked her son 'I need an egg wash' to which he replied 'yea do that mum' leaving her shocked 'I was telling you to make it for me'

Shocked by his answer she hit back 'I was telling you to make it for me'.

'Nope, I really would love to help you but at the same time I am trying not to cry,' he answered.

Jordan went on to add: 'I'm not like having a go at you, I know it's not your fault. Mum I am just worried because the pies aren't cooking in time.'

After finally serving the course with only a spare few minutes to go Anna commented that she was worried they were rushed to deliver the product.

While standing firmly as they awaited the verdict the pair were shocked to hear praise from both judges, Pete Evans and Colin Fassnidge.

Verdict: Anna said she was worried they were rushed to deliver the product moments before they were praised from both judges, Pete Evans and Colin Fassnidge for their dish

Amazing: Colin (L) said, 'Mama did well. Mama knocked it out of the park' while Pete (R) added, 'With your dish you didn't take any short cuts, there was no cutting corners it was just quality food cooked with love'

Back there again: During the on-hour episode of My Kitchen Rules Alex (L) and Gareth (R) and Paige and Rosie were sent through to the show's sudden death round in a bid to avoid elimination

'Mama did well. Mama knocked it out of the park. The pastry is the key and you had good pastry,' Colin said while adding 'It was seasoned and there was even liquid dripping out. Well done'.

Pete echoed his thoughts: 'With your dish you didn't take any short cuts, there was no cutting corners it was just quality food cooked with love.'

During the on-hour episode of My Kitchen Rules Alex and Gareth and Paige and Rosie were sent through to the show's sudden death round in a bid to avoid elimination.

The two Queensland miners found themselves in the bottom two for the second week in a row after serving Cola ribs with onion rings and slaw for their guests.

Pete commented: 'Your ribs were falling off the bone, I will give you that but that is where it stopped. You need to have a balance it can't just be all sweet because then it will be too much.'

Choice: The two best friends created a Cola ribs with onion rings and slaw for their guests

Harsh: While taking a bite, judge Pete Evans commented: 'Your ribs were falling off the bone, I will give you that but that is where it stopped'

Down the bottom: Fellow contestants Paige (R) and Rosie (L) also found themselves in the bottom two following the stressful task of feeding 75 families

Colin went on and added: 'The ribs were quiet sweet and that was a shocker of a dressing. It was a honey weird mayonnaise dressing which didn't help the dish.'

Fellow contestants Paige and Rosie were shocked to learn they were sent through to sudden death due to their pulled pork burgers with chicken bites and chips.

'They [chips] were soggy, you can tell straight away,' Pete critiqued the dish. 'There was a lot of bread, there was that much burger bun but not enough filling. Not the best dish I have had by you ladies.'

Colin continued: 'On paper it is a crowd pleaser but if I order a pull pork bun, I want juice coming down my arm and yours didn't deliver.

Let down: The pair were shocked to learn they were sent through to sudden death due to their pulled pork burgers with chicken bites and chips

Time of truth: Pete (R) critiqued the dish, 'There was that much burger bun but not enough filling. Not the best dish I have had by you ladies' while Colin (L) added: 'On paper it is a crowd pleaser but...yours didn't deliver'

Top of their game: But while the two teams prepare to battle it out in the last spot for the next outdoors task, Melbourne sisters Tasia (L) and Gracia (R) became safe for the next two weeks

'It was a bit dry and you had to work for that moisture. The chicken bites were okay and the chips weren't fluffy.'

But while the two teams prepare to battle it out in the last spot for the next outdoors task, Melbourne sisters Tasia and Gracia became safe for the next two weeks.

The two females received 'People's Choice' on Monday night for their Korean fried chicken with miso corn and cabbage salad.

Pete praised the pair for their tasty dish while labelling it a 'masterpiece'.

'You couldn't have cooked the chicken any better than that. It was a textual masterpiece,' he said while Colin added 'It is shouting family at you. It was a good dish, well done.'

My Kitchen Rules' sudden death round will air on Tuesday on Channel Seven at 7.30pm.
Hollywood hunk Hugh Jackman made global headlines when he helped lifeguards to save his 15-year-old son Oscar and other swimmers caught in a rip at Bondi Beach on Saturday.

But the dramatic rescue may have been a case of deja vu, as Sydney lifeguard Anthony 'Harries' Carroll has claimed that HE saved Oscar from a rip in the same spot eight years ago.

The Bondi Rescue star, 39, told The Daily Telegraph this week that Hugh informed him days later while on duty at nearby Bronte Beach that he'd saved his adopted son.

Deja vu: Days after Wolverine star Hugh Jackman (left) made headlines for helping Bondi Beach lifesavers rescue his teenage son Oscar and other swimmers caught in a rip over the weekend, Sydney lifeguard Anthony 'Harries' Carroll (right) has claimed that he saved Oscar from a rip in the same spot eight years ago

Anthony, who hails from Clovelly, said: 'I dont know how many rescues we did that day but Hugh turned up a couple of days later when I was working at Bronte and told me Id rescued his son.'

'I said, "Mate, I need a photo for Facebook for gods sake."'

About a year ago, Anthony shared a throwback snap on Instagram of himself posing with the X-Men star, 47, in the Bronte lifeguard room.

To the rescue! The Bondi Rescue star, 39, told The Daily Telegraph that Hugh personally informed him days later that he'd saved his adopted son - and they later posed for a photo while Anthony was on duty at Bronte

Hugh appeared in good spirits for the photo - which was likely taken nine years ago - and dressed in a white shirt left fashionably unbuttoned.

Opting for his trademark rugged, bearded look, the Wolverine star smiled for the cameras while pulling the thumbs-up hand gesture.

Meanwhile, Anthony wrote in the caption: '@thehughjackman 8 years ago this gentle Giant/God walks into the Bronte lifeguard room for a chat.

'What an Australian icon this living legend is. #thehughjackman', he concluded.

Growing up fast! According to Anthony, 15-year-old Oscar (left) - pictured with his father in New York City recently - has now been rescued twice from the rip in the same spot on Bondi Beach

On Saturday, Bondi Beach was closed for a short time as lifesavers at the NSW hotspot launched into action to rescue people caught in a rip.

Incredible footage later emerged of Hugh taking to the ocean to help lifeguards save swimmers, including his own teenage son.

The Sydney-born actor was hailed as a hero on social media - with The North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club thanking him for his efforts - but Hugh later downplayed his role in the rescue.

A spokesperson for the star said: 'Hugh and his family are 100 per cent OK. It wasn't nearly as dramatic as it looks.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Hugh Jackman for comment.
Amy Childs once again took the opportunity to show off her sartorial savvy with her latest Instagram post.

The former TOWIE star put on a chic display as she donned a lace-up bardot style jumpsuit which perfectly highlighted her shapely figure.

The 25-year-old could be seen doing up her nude jumpsuit in the mirrored image which she captioned: 'Can't decide which colour I love more in this jumpsuit #blackornude?'

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Double the fun: Amy Childs once again took the opportunity to show off her sartorial savvy with her latest Instagram post

Earlier in the month, Amy opted for a more revealing ensemble as she led stars at the launch of new charity Ask Albie at Woolston Manor In Chigwell, Essex.

The skimpy little number was backless and also had a low-cut detail at the side, allowing the busty glamour model to reveal a generous glimpse of her ample sideboob.

Skimming tightly over her enviably tanned and lean physique, she also flaunted her lovely legs, which she elongated wth a pair of strappy rose-gold metallic heels.

Lady in lace: Earlier in the month, Amy opted for a more revealing ensemble as she led stars at the launch of new charity Ask Albie at Woolston Manor In Chigwell, Essex

Showing off! The Essex beauty, 25, clad her trim curves in a pretty black dress, complete with a full satin A-line skirt and flattering cinched-in belt over her tiny waistline

The 28-year-old completed her night out look with her brunette mane styled into super-glossy curls tumbling down over her bare back and shoulders, and a heavy dose of mascara to give her fluttery eyelashes.

She also carried a slick nude clutch bag, which she held by her side as she strutted into the popular venue to do her bit for charity.

Joining Pascal at the Essex charity event was her fellow former TOWIE star Amy, 25, who went for a completely different style of outfit but one that was no less chaste in terms of covering up the cleavage.

Showing what she's got: It was definitely her generous cleavage that stole the show, the low-cut sheer lace top half of the frock seemingly struggling to contain her assets

The Essex beauty clad her trim curves in a pretty black dress, complete with a full satin A-line skirt and flattering cinched-in belt over her tiny waistline.

But it was definitely her generous cleavage that stole the show, the low-cut sheer lace top half of the frock seemingly struggling to contain her assets.

Underneath the transparent lingerie-style top was a nude bustier, which just about protected her modesty.

As she turned to show off her full attire, the reality TV star and fashion designer showed off the delicately designed back, a lace racer-back style that showed off her toned shoulders.

Leggy display: Pascal Craymer also made sure to flaunt her toned, tanned legs as she strutted through the darkened streets of Chigwell

For a good cause: Amy, Pascal and others attended the launch for Ask Albie, a new charity that aims to grant wishes for children in Essex who are battling illness and life-threatening conditions

Amy - who recently did the rounds on the front rows at London Fashion Week - wore her famous russet locks in a simple, elegant low ponytail for the evening's events and finished her ensemble with a pair of classic black strappy sandals.

Both Pascal and Amy made sure to turn on the charm for photographers outside the venue before heading in to join others at the launch event for Ask Albie, a charity that aims to grant wishes for children in Essex who are battling illness and life-threatening conditions.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, a three course dinner and an auction in order to raise funds for the new charity.

Meanwhile, a few other familiar faces were in attendance at the gala event, including TOWIE star George Harrison and Ex On The Beach babe Holly Rickwood.

George opted for a sophisticated plunging black jumpsuit with wide-legged trousers for the evening, while blonde Holly showed off her petite physique in a pretty pink dress with a crossover detail over her chest.

Sophisticated swagger: TOWIE star George Harrison opted for a sleek plunging black jumpsuit for the night
They were planning to tie the knot in a lavish wedding this summer.

However, young lovebirds Jacqueline Jossa and Dan Osborne have revealed they have decided to postpone their marriage until next year.

The EastEnders actress, 23, and former Only Way Is Essex star Dan, 24, have been engaged since last June following the birth of their daughter Ella in February 2015.

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On hold: Jacqueline Jossa and Dan Osborne, pictured with their daughter Ella, said they have postponed their wedding, originally planned for this summer

Speaking in the new issue of OK! magazine, the soap star said they had taken the decision to postpone their wedding because they felt too rushed.

They admitted they had left it too late to find a decent venue for the wedding, with most summer locations being booked up over a year in advance.

Jacqueline explained: 'We just ran out of time to plan everything. I thought we had ages to get stuff sorted, then all of a sudden it was March and we didnt have anything booked.

Loved up: Jacqueline and Dan, pictured in New York City, have been dating on and off since September 2013

'Weve not found a venue thats perfect for us yet. We want to wait and find somewhere that we love.'

However, the actress was quick to deny speculation their relationship is on the rocks, insisting they're happier than ever.

Jacqueline and Dan's romance hasn't been straightforward as they first started dating in September 2013 when his ex-girlfriend Megan Tomlin was pregnant with his son Teddy.

The couple didn't last too long with Dan single for the birth of Teddy that December, before briefly giving his relationship with Megan another try before parting ways again.

By May 2014, Dan and Jacqueline were back on with the soap star falling pregnant with Ella nearly immediately, announcing their baby news that August.

Stronger than ever: Jacqueline has hit out at critics of their relationship, insisted she is happy and in love with the male model

The male model has received a lot of negative attention last year due to his turbulent relationship with his ex Megan.

The father-of-two was fired by TOWIE bosses in April 2015 after leaked recordings showed him threatening violence against Megan, referring to her as 'his property'.

Although Jacqueline admitted at the time she was horrified by the recordings, she and Dan have moved past it, with the male model proposing in Greece last summer.

Speaking about their relationship, the soap star said: 'Just because weve postponed the wedding, it doesnt mean our relationship is falling apart  were still getting married!

'I hate that people view me as some poor, vulnerable girl who is so put upon by Daniel.

'I dont need a man to make me happy. Im with Dan because I love him, not because I feel trapped with him or need someone! I dont feel trapped just because we have a daughter together. I would be absolutely fine on my own.
It was a beautiful warm and sunny Easter Sunday in Los Angeles.

And Al Pacino made the most of it, strolling around near his Beverly Hills home.

The 75-year-old, who is known for his eccentric choice of clothing, was suited up for the occasion. But he didn't seem to go to great lengths to make sure he was tucked and tidy.

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Such a naughty boy: Al Pacino looked more like a student coming home from prom night than the iconic actor that he is when he was spotted suited up for a stroll near his Beverly Hills home on Easter Sunday

He looked more like a student coming home from his first prom in a disheveled three-piece than a Hollywood star out for a walk.

His white shirt was unbuttoned at the neck, revealing a chain, and he left it untucked to flap around in the breeze.

The Godfather star's grey waistcoat was secured by two buttons and gaped open under his black jacket.

Al's baggy black trousers were wrinkled and his salt and pepper hair was sticking up but his beard and moustache was tidily trimmed

Suited up: The 75-year-old left his white shirt unbuttoned and untucked to flap in the breeze under his waistcoat and gaping jacket

And the Dog Day Afternoon actor protected his eyes from the bright sunshine with a pair of shades - just like any young man would do coming home from a night on the town.

Meanwhile, the iconic actor is as busy as ever.

On January 31 he wrapped a three-month run in China Doll, a two-hander with Christopher Denham, at the Schoenfeld Theatre on Broadway.

The same day he was spotted running to the theatre looking almost unrecognisable in a long trench coat, baggy black trousers, a hooded knitted cardigan, a bandanna tied around his head and a raw edge scarf around his neck.

Boho hobo look: The iconic actor is known for his eccentric sense of style as he showed on January 31 when he ran through New York to get to the last performance of his play, China Doll, at Broadway's Schoenfeld Theatre

Giving it his all: Al co-starred in the two-hander with Christopher Denham from October until January 31

Al was last seen on the bigscreen in courtroom corruption drama Misconduct, co-starring Josh Duhamel and Anthony Hopkins, which was released on February 5.

And he has joined the cast of Where White Man Runs Away, playing Seymour Tobin, a fictitious Vietnam War correspondent, in the drama about rookie journalist Jay Bahadur, played by Evan Peters, who embeds himself among Somali pirates in 2008.

He also has crime thriller The Trap set up for 2017, co-starring James Franco, Benicio Del Toro and Robert Pattinson
She is famous for the junk in her trunk.

But Jennifer Lopez will be riding up front when she joins James Corden for his first ever primetime Carpool Karaoke on Tuesday night.

On Monday the host gave a sneak peek at the upcoming Late Late Show special with a rap video revealing the J-Lo all buckled up and ready to roll.

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Let's get loud: James Corden rapped about his Carpool Karaoke with Jennifer Lopez in a teaser ahead of the first Late Late Show Primetime Special on Monday

They look good together: The funny man and the singer posed on a black SUV

'I went to my network boss and said "Screw it". Boss is like, "How 'bout a special? You wanna do it?" he raps to the tune of Macklemore & Ryan Lewis' Downtown in the minute-long clip. 'Primetime! Ten to eleven. Mainstream! Like a slice of heaven.'

He added: 'Viewers will watch it, critics will judge it, this part will make it way over budget,' he goes on as his crew burst through the Mona Lisa. 'Wasteful!'

The 37-year-old Brit's late night talk show usually airs at 12.37am, but CBS execs want to give earlier retiring audiences a taste of his hugely popular segment which sees him sing in his car with some of music's biggest names.

Suddenly a smile: In this shot, Jenny From The Block looked more welcoming as Corden looked like a cat that got his cream

Setting the scene: 'I went to my network boss and said "Screw it". Boss is like, "How 'bout a special? You wanna do it?"

Big seller: The 37-year-old Brit's late night talk show usually airs at 12.37am, but CBS execs want to give earlier retiring audiences a taste of his hugely popular segment which sees him sing in his car with some of music's biggest names

'Viewers will watch it, critics will judge it, this part will make it way over budget,' he goes on as his crew burst through the Mona Lisa. 'Wasteful!'

'So tonight, I'm on my way before 12:30, cleaning up my language 'cause I can't talk dirty,' he continues.

'I'll make your TV shine brighter than a halo, all leading up to a Carpool with J.Lo.'

'Tonight we'll give you something great,' he sings at the conclusion. 'You'll see what you've been missing late.'

Rolling in the Jeep: by far his most popular invention is the crooning commute, which has seen the likes of Stevie Wonder, Adele, Sia, Mariah Carey, One Direction and Elton John go shotgun, while Justin Bieber has even come back for a second round

Occasion: The special marks his successful one year anniversary since he took over the slot from Scotland's Craig Ferguson

The special marks his successful one year anniversary since he took over the slot from Scotland's Craig Ferguson.

He stirred up cookie cutter format of late night talk, opting against an MC and bringing across the Atlantic the concept of having all guests share the couch at the same time.

But by far his most popular invention is the crooning commute, which has seen the likes of Stevie Wonder, Adele, Sia, Mariah Carey, One Direction and Elton John go shotgun, while Justin Bieber has even come back for a second round.

New look: Corden stirred up cookie cutter format of late night talk, opting against an MC and bringing across the Atlantic the concept of having all guests share the couch at the same time

Best bits: The hour long special will relive some of the best moments so far, finishing with the brand new session with Jenny from the Block

'We call the carpool segments our gateway drug into James wacky world,' executive producer Rob Crabbe told NY Daily News.

'Getting a 10 oclock special will give audiences a great taste of all the cool stuff that hes doing after midnight.'

The hour long special will relive some of the best moments so far, finishing with the brand new session with Jenny from the Block.

Busy: On Monday he 46-year-old was spotted filming the segment in WeHo
They will be celebrating their three year anniversary in a little over a month.

And still, Shenae Grimes and her husband Josh Beech looked to have a serious case of puppy love when they jetted into Vancouver on Sunday.

The couple couldn't stop smiling as they landed in Shenae's native Canada with their precious dog Frankenstein Beech in tow.

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Puppy love! Shenae Grimes and her husband Josh Beech couldn't stop smiling as they landed in Vancouver, Canada on Sunday with their adorable dog, Frankenstein Beech, in tow

Guiding her dog by the leash, the Toronto-born 26-year-old looked punk rock in her hoodie, jean jacket, and boots as she jetted into Vancouver.

The former Degrassi star wore her shoulder-length hair down and appeared entirely makeup-free, letting her skin breathe for the flight home.

She carried a replenishing bottle of water and had a fun animal print bag slung over her shoulder.

Her husband looked ready to rock in his grey skinny jeans, Rolling Stones band shirt, and a lightweight down jacket.

Fresh face! The 26-year-old let her skin breathe, as she appeared to go entirely without makeup for day

The look of love: With one hand placed upon her back, the upbeat model guided his leading lady outdoors, but not before gazing at his wife of nearly three years

With one hand placed upon her back, the upbeat model guided his leading lady outdoors, but not before gazing at his wife of nearly three years.

The couple shared another tender moment as they waited for their ride on the curb, with Josh reaching for Shenae's hand.

Shenae and Josh wed in May 2013 in Kent, England, with Shenae wearing a black Vera Wang dress and walking down the aisle to electronic dance music.

TLC: No doubt the couple were glad to be enjoying some time together, given Shenae's busy acting schedule

Love story: The actress and Josh wed in May 2013 in Kent, England, with Shenae wearing a black Vera Wang dress and walking down the aisle to electronic dance music

No doubt the couple were glad to be enjoying some time together, given Shenae's busy acting schedule.

The actress chronicled her hectic Friday morning on Instagram, sharing an image of herself 'sleeping standing up' at the airport for a very early morning flight.

'3am wake up call, 6am flight. Im sleeping standing up!! Happy Easter weekend from me and the lil monster. #leavingonajetplane #tumitravel,' she captioned the image.

'I'm sleeping standing up!' The weary traveler documented her very early day on Friday

Shenae has been busy filming, and earlier this week teased a new project she was working on with actress Bailee Madison.

'Having too much fun on set with this sweet girl. #minime #itsofficial,' she captioned the image.

Shenae has a number of other projects to come, including a role in the thriller The Rake and horror film The Bequest, both of which are scheduled for release in 2016.
Fans were thrilled when Harrison Ford made his appearance in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, reprising his role as smuggler Han Solo and showing off his iconic, rugged style.

And now they can own the 73-year-old's iconic leather jacket from the record-breaking film, as Harrison has donated the autographed piece of movie history to be sold on auction site If Only.

Harrison made the donation in honor of his daughter Georgia Ford, who has been living with Epilepsy, with proceeds from the auction - set at $18,000 - going to NYU Langone Center and FACES (Finding A Cure for Epilepsy and Seizures).

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Just like Han! Star Wars fans have a chance to be just like the iconic Millennium Falcon pilot as Harrison Ford is auctioning off the jacket he wore in Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Doting dad: Harrison has donated the iconic jacket to raise funds for NYU Langone Center and FACES (Finding A Cure for Epilepsy and Seizures) in honor of his daughter Georgia Ford (pictured, L, along with Harrison's current wife Calista Flockhart, R, in 2013) who is living with epilepsy

Harrison was seen wearing the custom-made leather jacket in the most recent Star Wars film, directed by J.J. Abrams.

The beloved actor has also autographed and dated the one-of-a-kind jacket in shiny, silver marker.

The proceeds are set to benefit the Langone Center, of which Harrison has long been a supporter, thanks to Dr. Orrin Devinsky, the director of Comprehensive Epilsepy Center, who correctly diagnosed his daughter Georgia.

See Star Wars updates as Harrison Ford auctions off Han Solo jacket for epilepsy research

One-of-a-kind: The custom-made, rugged leather jacket comes with an autograph from the beloved actor in shiny, silver marker, and is currently set at $18,000

His 25-year-old daughter - with his second wife, the late Melissa Mathison - had suffered years of health scares and seizures before finally receiving the diagnosis of epilepsy.

Harrison had previously gotten teary while speaking about his daughter's condition - as reported by the New York Daily News - saying: 'When you have a loved one who suffers from this disease, it can be devastating.'

'You know how it affects their lives, their future, their opportunities and you want desperately to find mitigation. You want to find a way that they can live a comfortable and effective life.'

Iconic: Harrison wore the striking jacket as he reprised his unforgettable role as Han Solo after over 30 years (pictured with co-stars L to R: John Boyega, Peter Mayhew, and Daisy Ridley) in Star Wars: The Force Awakens

He shared his gratitude for the center and Dr. Devinsky, for finally correctly diagnosing his daughter, who following the diagnosis has not had a seizure in eight years.

'Dr. Orrin and FACES have been a great service to my family,' Harrison said, adding: 'I am grateful for that.'
Rowan Atkinson's performance as the famous French detective Maigret was no match for David Suchet's Inspector Poirot.

But it was certainly less problematic than some actors' attempts to move on from the comic creations of their past into more 'substantial' parts: Ricky Gervais' excruciating efforts in Derek for example, or Hugh Laurie's misguided caricature as 'the worst man in the world' Richard Roper in The Night Manager.

Comedians love nothing more than playing serious roles. In fact these days they seem to prefer them to a good comedy.

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Convinced? Rowan Atkinson gave his best shot at being a dramatic actor in ITV's new drama Maigret, based on Georges Simenon's French detective

But casting even experienced comic actors against type remains a high-risk strategy.

Peter Sellers, Richard Pryor, Bill Murray, and Whoopi Goldberg may have produced some of their best work but recently Steve Coogan, Will Ferrell, and Adam Sandler have struggled horribly.

Even Rowan Atkinson has admitted he 'wasn't sure' he should take the part of the iconic policier.

'ITV asked me if I fancied playing the role,' he has said. 'I thought perhaps not. If you think you're just going to give it a go and see what happens, I don't think that's good enough.'

But when they asked again he admitted, 'I thought I could do more than have a go at it. So I had a go at it.'

Following in his footsteps: The Mr Bean actor was treading the same path trod by the likes of other comic actors into drama, including his Blackadder compadre Hugh Laurie (as baddie Mr Roper in The Night Manager)

This was very much the abiding impression of Maigret Sets A Trap, the first of two ITV adaptations of Georges Simenon's stories: someone having a go. (They resisted a nod to Blackadder and re-titling it Maigret Has A Cunning Plan.)

Atkinson hs described the characters he usually plays as 'slightly odd or eccentric'  something of an understatement when you're talking about Johnny English, Blackadder, or Mr Bean.

Maigret on the other hand is painstakingly 'ordinary'.

It was a relief to see Atkinson resisting the ostentatiously twitchy scene stealing that he is renowned for or which Hugh Laurie resorted to in The Night Manager. But for a while he seemed in danger of making Maigret so blank he was bordering on anonymous.

His home life was illustrated with little more than the announcement that he had brought home some apples  which his wife already had.

Understandably eager to play down all reminders of Mr Bean and Blackadder, Atkinson was helpfully disguised under a heavy overcoat and hat, carrying the prop of a pipe virtually everywhere he went.

So far, so French detective: It was a relief to see Atkinson resisting the ostentatiously twitchy scene stealing that he is renowned for or which Hugh Laurie resorted to in The Night Manager

Trying to forget his comedy personas: The 62-year-old was helpfully disguised under a heavy overcoat and hat, carrying the prop of a pipe virtually everywhere he went

As usual with cop shows like Heartbeat or Inspector George Gently, the costume department had gone to town, delighting in equipping everyone with the suspiciously spotless cars and telephones befitting Paris in the 1950s.

French newspaper headlines immediately presented the backdrop to the plot.

'Meurtres de Montmartre! QUE FAIT LA POLICE?' demanded one, in capitals, about the case of four murders in Montmartre. 'Maigret reste muet.'

Maigret wasn't staying silent for long though. When he did speak, Le Figaro's readers would have been surprised that, despite so much overt 'authenticity', like everyone else, he was speaking perfect English.

Admittedly this was better than 'Franglais' which would have been too Inspector Clouseau.

The first fifteen minutes were devoted to emphasising Maigret's 'burden', with his colleagues in the police constantly spelling out 'It's your man again Maigret.'

'Where were you?!' the fifth victim's husband cried when Maigret broke the news.

The press were hounding him like Justin Bieber and from the men at the Ministry to the local showgirls, Paris was of the view it was basically Maigret's fault.

Doing what they do best: The ITV show's costume department had gone to town, delighting in equipping everyone with the suspiciously spotless cars and telephones befitting Paris in the 1950s

You could see why.

As the title Maigret Sets A Trap indicated, the premise of the story was that in the end the culprit would be undone by the famous detective's ingenuity.

But like every 'heroic' eponymous TV cop from Taggart and Morse to Luther, this over-looked the fact that Maigret had let the serial killer remain at large for long enough to claim so many victims in the first place.

With no clue as to what linked the five women (who were or different ages and professions) beyond 'they have dark hair and were walking through Montmartre' (a big hint), Maigret's 'trap' was to flush out his man by faking an arrest.

'I believe the killer will not be able to stand by watch someone else be given credit or his crimes. I think he'll strike again and I think he'll strike tonight,' he mused, slightly in the manner of Blackadder.

He asked for a team of twelve WPCs volunteering to 'walk around Montmartre alone'.

'I want them to be trained in self-defence, above average height, and to be brown haired. If we do our job, they'll be safe.'

No surprises there: As the title Maigret Sets A Trap indicated, the premise of the story was that in the end the culprit would be undone by the famous detective's ingenuity

It didn't sound like the most ingenious, detailed, plan. Sure enough, Marthe Jusserand was attacked and her dress cut from behind, slashed by a small blade ('like a penknife') like the others.

Marthe fought her assailant off though, snatching a button from his suit before he outran the solitary officer to give chase.

Given that she was unable to provide a detail description and a journalist wandered into the station, realising enough to run the story 'Killer Escapes Trap', it didn't really seem like Maigret's most cunning plan.

Fortunately his him, French forensics in the 50s was worthy of CSI: Miami but even when the bespoke button lead to a single suspect (Marcel Moncin), Atkinson's portrayal of Maigret was so low-key it seemed determined to make the drama as dull as possible.

He didn't have quite as little to say as Mr. Bean but his dialogue was certainly minimal.

'You sure it's this man chief?' one colleague fretted.

'Yes,' Maigret replied simply.

'Are you sure it's me you wish to speak to?!' demanded Moncin's mother.

'I am sure.'

What a duo: Atkinson was joined by his on-screen wife, Madame Maigret, played by Lucy Cohu

Supporting cast: Colin Mace looked every inch the 1950s policeman in the role of Lognon

Blending in: Aiden McArdle (left) played Judge Comeliiau, and Christopher Bowen (right) was Inspector Lefors

Eventually the more Atkinson was given to say, the better he became though, particularly as he targeted Moncin (the excellent David Dawson). In truth, as serial killers go Moncin, who had the fringe and white raincoat of a French Paul Weller in his Style Council period (Paul Welleur perhaps) was not as scary as his mother (the formidable Fiona Shaw).

'Do you love your mother? She makes you feel special - even though you're not?' the Inspector taunted politely.

'Is it over?' asked Maigret's wife after his interrogation and a forensic examination of Moncin's suit had blown a hole (literally) in his alibi.

'Yes,' Maigret concluded again.

It wasn't though. While Moncin was in custody, another killing with a similar weapon cast doubt on the Inspector's brilliance.

But Maigret knew it was what the French call 'une copycat.'

Dastardly work: Maigret Sets A Trap did exactly what it said on the tin

He brought Moncin's mother and his wife down to the cells to wait for one of them to crack as he turned the screw again on their precious, wretched, raging Marcel.

'These women have trapped you in a life you cannot sustain,' Maigret put it to him. 'They both knew you were the killer didn't they? And they protected you, because that's what they do. And one of them tried to protect you last night  so she could keep you and smother you forever. The one who murdered last night knows what she did. And the other is jealous that she didn't think of it first.'

Touche ! The final bit of bait was aimed at Madame Moncin when she claimed the last murder had been her dirty work.

'In that case you can tell me the colour of her dress,' Maigret mused.

'It was blue,' stated Moncin's wife, stepping forward to upstage her nemesis and prove her love despite all her husband's hatred.

It was a nifty trick  the real trap - by Maigret and one Poirot would have been proud of.

Who knows, now that David Suchet has stepped down from his famous Inspector, in Rowan Atkinson ITV may have found a worthy successor.
Maigret Sets A Trap (ITV)

Rating:

This must be one of Baldricks cunning plans. The stars of Blackadder are swiping all the best roles in serious telly drama.

First there was Hugh Laurie, once the nice-but-dim Lieutenant George in Blackadder Goes Forth, slithering like a malevolent cobra through the Sunday night spy thriller The Night Manager.

Now Rowan Atkinson has seized the blockbuster Bank Holiday slot, playing Chief Inspector Jules Maigret of the Paris police force, in ITVs sumptuous and atmospheric adaptation of a Georges Simenon novel, Maigret Sets A Trap.

Rowan Atkinson has seized the blockbuster Bank Holiday slot, playing Chief Inspector Jules Maigret of the Paris police force, in ITVs sumptuous adaptation of a Georges Simenon novel, Maigret Sets A Trap (above)

Maigret has been a much-loved TV detective since the Sixties, when he was played by the marvellous Rupert Davies. Hes the French equivalent of Inspector Morse, the brilliant mind who can outwit any criminal while driving his superiors to distraction.

The last time Maigret was seen on British screens in the 1990s, he was played by Sir Michael Gambon. The Chief, as his loyal officers call him, ought to be a safe bet.

But as this two-hour special made us uncomfortably aware, his methods havent aged too well.

Where Sherlock Holmes relied on his ability to unravel fiendish clues, and Hercule Poirot produced ingenious deductions from scraps of detail, Maigret uses psychology. In his world, men are controlled by their animal lusts. And women are mens biggest problem.

This notion sits uneasily with modern audiences. We expect our heroes to see women as human beings, not demons sent to torment their menfolk.

The detective exists in a demi-monde, haunting the Paris nightclubs, strip bars and whorehouses by night  constantly tempted, but too strong to give in.

Maigret Sets A Trap sees The Chief trying to lure a serial killer into the open by using policewomen as bait. One is attacked but the silly girl forgets to look at his face. Fortunately, Maigret realises the murderer must be a well-dressed man of taste, who is beset by hateful women.

Maigret is the ultimate father figure. He is decent, strong, honest and kindly. He knocks back beer and shots of liquor all day and night, but he is never drunk. He puffs on his pipe, calm and wise but constantly alert. No criminal can escape him. As long as Maigret is guarding us, we can sleep at night.

The last time Maigret was seen on British screens in the 1990s, he was played by Sir Michael Gambon (above)

Atkinson is on the slight side for the role. The Chief is supposed to be a barrel-chested bear of a man. But the Mr Bean actor has a superbly expressive face that crinkles with compassion or hardens into an implacable wall of determination with the flicker of a few muscles. That face has been the basis of all his comedy, because it can be so wildly contorted. Yet it is also capable of real subtlety.

His voice is rather light and reedy  Maigret ought to rumble, like a storm in the distance. But he has the most splendid pair of eyebrows, like two woolly strips of rug, that give him all the authority he requires.

So this stand-alone special was poised between success and disaster. On the one hand, we feel a natural sympathy for a much admired actor. There hasnt been such a protective police presence on screen since Dixon Of Dock Green. But we dont feel reassured, because Simenons spite seeps through.

What saved this show was its richly imagined vision of Paris in the Fifties. Though it was actually filmed in Budapest, it captured the cobbled streets, the tenements hung with washing, the jazz clubs and the buzz of the outdoor cafes.

What a duo: Atkinson was joined by his on-screen wife, Madame Maigret, played by Lucy Cohu

Convinced? Rowan Atkinson gave his best shot at being a dramatic actor in ITV's new drama Maigret

This was like a Gallic version of Call The Midwife, the past vividly conjured  though instead of starched aprons there were louche glimpses of stockings and silk underwear.

Best of all, a cloud of pipe smoke hung over it all. The fanatical anti-smoking brigade could have prevented that  though the idea of Maigret without tobacco is like James Bond without Martinis. Thankfully, Atkinson constantly had a briar in his mouth, putting a match to the bowl in a contemplative gesture, and it was this above all that gave the drama its slow-burning attraction.

He returns this year in a two-hour special, Maigrets Dead Man. Whether more will be made depends on public reaction: I suspect that, however good it looked, the aftertaste of Simenons bitterness will discourage ITV from commissioning a full series.
UAE jails 11 for life over 'terror plots'

A top court in the United Arab Emirates jailed 11 people for life on Sunday after convicting them of jihadist links and plotting "terrorist" attacks in the Gulf country, state media reported.

The Federal Supreme court in Abu Dhabi jailed two others for 15 years, 13 for 10 years, six for three years, and two for five years, the official WAM news agency said.

Seven defendants were acquitted.

A general view shows a leaning skyscraper in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on June 6, 2010

The 41 defendants were accused of seeking to overthrow the government to set up an Islamic State group-style caliphate in the UAE.

Two of those jailed for life were tried in absentia.

According to the Khaleej Times newspaper, the defendants were convicted of "plotting to carry out terrorist operations throughout the country."

They were also found guilty of "endangering the safety and security of the country and the lives of individuals, including the leadership and its symbols with the intention to cause damage to state and private infrastructure."

Other charges included "possessing firearms and ammunition with the intention of committing attacks," as well as contacting and raising funds for the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda's Syria affiliate Al-Nusra Front, Khaleej Times reported on its website.

Authorities had reported their arrest on August 2 and their trial -- which was closed to international media -- began on August 24.

The UAE is part of a US-led coalition that has been carrying out air strikes against IS in Syria since September last year.
Jim Harrison, novelist of the wild, dies at age 78

Jim Harrison, the American novelist and poet who explored the natural world in such works as "Legends of the Fall," has died, his publisher confirmed Sunday. He was 78.

Harrison, who US media said passed away at his home in Patagonia, Arizona, relished a reputation as a rugged outsider far removed from the East Coast literary scene.

He produced 21 volumes of fiction and 14 books of poetry as well as essays and a children's book.

American novelist JIm Harrison pcitured on September 27, 2002 dies at 78 on March 27, 2016 Martin Bureau (AFP/File)

A heavy drinker, smoker and self-described manic depressive, Harrison's fictions were extensions of his love of wild places, and his passions as a hunter, fisherman and cook.

"America lost one of its greatest writers and we at Grove lost a family member," his publisher, Grove Atlantic, tweeted Sunday, adding that "his work lives on."

Harrison had just published another novella, "The Ancient Minstrel," and a book of poetry, "Dead Man's Float," earlier this year.

Born in Grayling, Michigan, he had a difficult rural upbringing, blinded in one eye as a child and losing his father and sister in an automobile accident when he was 21.

He was often described as a "macho" writer in the vein of Ernest Hemingway, but Harrison said it was his subject matter that prompted the comparison.

- 'That macho thing' -

"All I have to say about that macho thing goes back to the idea that my characters aren't from the urban dream-coasts," he said in a 1986 interview with the Paris Review.

"But you know what it's like here and up in the Upper Peninsula. This is where I grew up. How is it macho that I like to hunt and fish? I've been doing it since I was four," he said.

He considered himself primarily a poet, but gained fame as a novelist and often earned a living as a Hollywood screenwriter.

His first novel "Wolf: A False Memoir," (1971) tells a man's angry life story as he tracks a wolf in the Michigan wilderness.

He said he wrote it while convalescing from a fall off a cliff while bird hunting.

The 1979 "Legends of the Fall" comprised three novellas, Harrison's preferred fictional form. The title story is an epic that takes place in the Rocky Mountains, and became a film starring Brad Pitt.

"Dalva," (1988) one of his best known novels, tells the story of a woman's search for the son she gave up for adoption.

Much of it is written in the woman's voice, something Harrison said took three years of hard work to achieve.

"Why that's been brutally hard is that you don't get to use any of your easy accumulation of male resonances," he told the Paris Review.

"I don't know if she's going to talk to me today or not. It's been sort of spooky," he said.
US says two more Americans dead in Brussels attacks, total now four

The US State Department has confirmed the deaths of two more Americans in the Brussels suicide attacks, bringing the total number to four.

"We can confirm the deaths of two additional US citizens in Brussels, and we express our deepest condolences to their loved ones," a State Department official told AFP.

The department had reported Friday that two Americans were killed and that additional US citizens were missing.

The US State Department has confirmed the deaths of two more Americans in the Brussels suicide attacks, bringing the total number to four Patrik Stollarz (AFP)

"We have no further information to share out of respect for the families during this difficult time," the official said Sunday.

An American couple that had been reported missing, Justin and Stephanie Shults, were confirmed dead by an employer and family on Saturday. It was unclear whether they were among the four reported dead by the State Department.

Tuesday's attacks on the Brussels airport and metro system, claimed by the Islamic State group, killed 31 people and wounded 340.
China 'rounds up overseas dissidents' relatives' over letter

Chinese authorities have detained the relatives of several dissidents living abroad, they said, as part of a widening crackdown following the publication of a letter critical of President Xi Jinping.

Germany-based journalist Chang Ping said local authorities in the southwestern province of Sichuan had detained his two younger brothers and a younger sister in connection with suspicions that he had been involved in writing an anonymous letter calling on Xi to step down for the good of the country.

"Numerous relatives in China have been subject to investigation, harassment, and threats" after he discussed the letter in an article and interview, Chang said in a statement posted on the web site chinachange.org.

Media criticism of top leaders is almost unheard of in China, where the press is strictly controlled by the ruling Communist Party Greg Baker (AFP/File)

Police had asked them to demand that he cease publishing any criticisms of the Chinese Communist Party, "or the government would find ways to charge my family members", he said in the document, dated Sunday.

Chang, a prominent commentator on contemporary affairs, was formerly a senior journalist at the outspoken Southern Weekend newspaper but moved to Germany after coming under sustained pressure for advocating more government openness and accountability.

The detention of Chang's family is the latest example of what appears to be a widening campaign of intimidation aimed at people thought to be associated with the letter criticising Xi.

Last week, New York-based Wen Yunchao said officials in the southern province of Guangdong had taken away three of his family members.

Chang and Wen have both denied any connection to the letter.

Four members of staff at Wujie News, a state-backed website which carried the letter earlier this month before deleting it, have been missing since last week, a reporter at the outlet earlier told AFP.

According to reports 10 associated technical personnel have also been held.

Media criticism of top leaders is almost unheard of in China, where the press is strictly controlled by the ruling Communist Party.

The letter, seen by AFP in a cached form, berated Xi for centralising authority, mishandling the economy and tightening ideological controls.

"Due to your gathering of all power into your own hands... we are now facing unprecedented problems and crises in politics, economics, ideology, and culture," it said.

Chinese journalist Jia Jia was detained at Beijing's main airport ahead of a flight to Hong Kong last week, before being released Friday evening.

Rights groups linked his detention to an official probe into the letter.
Bangladesh Islamists protest call to scrap state religion

Bangladesh's largest Islamist party called a nationwide strike Monday to protest a legal move to scrap Islam as the state religion.

Jamaat-e-Islami said the case, due to open on Monday, was a "deep-rooted conspiracy" against religion in the Muslim-majority nation.

"Bangladesh is a 90 percent Muslim nation," said a statement from the group, whose top leaders have been tried and executed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's secular government for war crimes.

Bangladeshi police stand guard as hardline Islamists protest outside the national mosque Baitul Mukarram in Dhaka on March 25, 2016 Munir Uz Zaman (AFP/File)

"The people will never accept any government move to remove Islam as the state religion from the constitution in an effort to please a handful of anti-religion persons."

Bangladesh was declared officially secular after the 1971 war of independence from Pakistan.

But in 1988 the then-military ruler elevated Islam to the state religion of the South Asian country in an effort to consolidate power.

This month the High Court agreed to hear a petition by secularists who have argued for decades that Islam's special status discriminates against non-Muslims.

The move has enraged Islamists, thousands of whom staged angry demonstrations in major cities and towns on Friday, and security was tight ahead of the hearing.

"We've sufficient security arrangements in the capital to prevent any violence or any act of sabotage," Dhaka police spokesman Maruf Hossain Sorder told AFP.

Jamaat said its activists had staged demonstrations and marches in at least half a dozen neighbourhoods in Dhaka.
Saudi, Yemen rebels exchange prisoners ahead of peace talks

Rebels who control the Yemeni capital Sanaa have released nine Saudis in exchange for 109 Yemenis, the Riyadh-led coalition fighting them said Monday, in the latest sign of tensions easing before peace talks.

"Nine Saudi prisoners have been recovered and 109 Yemenis who were arrested in the military operations zone" near the border have been handed over, the coalition said in a statement.

It did not specify whether the prisoners were combatants or civilians.

Yemeni tribesmen from the Popular Resistance Committees, backing forces loyal to Yemen's Saudi-backed President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, hold a position during clashes with Shiite Huthi rebels west of the city of Taez on March 21, 2016 Ahmad Al-Basha (AFP/File)

The swap follows another exchange of one Saudi soldier for seven Yemenis earlier this month amid tribal mediation that has helped reduce violence along the Saudi-Yemeni border.

Efforts have been building to bring an end to the devastating conflict in Yemen, a year after the Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes against the Iran-backed Shiite Huthi rebels.

UN envoy Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed announced last week that the combatants have agreed to a cessation of hostilities from midnight on April 10, followed by talks in Kuwait on April 18.

Previous negotiations have failed and earlier ceasefires were not respected, but analysts say a more conducive atmosphere prevails ahead of the new round of talks.

Andreas Krieg of the Department of Defence Studies at King's College London said the prisoner swap is "a sign of Saudi goodwill" before the Kuwait negotiations.

It signals to the Huthis that Riyadh and its allies are "willing to make compromises to bring these talks to a successful end," said Krieg, who also teaches at the Qatari Armed Forces Staff College.

Adam Baron, a visiting fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, said "there is widespread hope that the upcoming Kuwait talks will function as a step in the right direction."

- 'Immeasurable suffering' -

The coalition said Monday that border areas remained relatively calm.

It said it hoped to see the lull "spread to combat zones in order to facilitate the sending of humanitarian aid to all of Yemen's territory" and to support UN efforts to reach a political settlement.

In a rare incident that broke the calm, the Saudi Civil Defence agency said on Sunday that eight people, including four children, had been wounded by fire from Yemen.

More than 90 people have been killed on the Saudi side of the frontier by shelling and in skirmishes over the past year.

The Huthis seized Sanaa in September 2014 then advanced south, raising fears in Riyadh that the rebels would extend the influence of Shiite Iran in the kingdom's southern neighbour.

Local forces backed by coalition ground troops have since pushed the Huthis out of five southern provinces and second city Aden, where President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has established a temporary capital.

But the rebels -- allied with elite troops loyal to Hadi's ousted predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh -- have held on elsewhere including the capital.

The United Nations says about 6,300 people have been killed in the war, more than half of them civilians.

On Sunday the World Health Organization said Yemen's civilians were undergoing "immeasurable suffering", including almost 2.5 million internally displaced.

Sunni extremists of the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda have exploited the chaos, widening their footholds in Yemen's south and carrying out deadly attacks against both the Shiite rebels and Hadi's loyalists.

Human rights groups have criticised the high civilian death toll from the coalition's bombing campaign and have called on Western governments to stop selling arms to Saudi Arabia.
Indian jailed for 14 years for Bali drug-smuggling

An Indian man was jailed for 14 years on Monday for trying to bring crystal methamphetamine into the Indonesian resort island of Bali.

Sayed Mohammed Said was arrested with 1.5 kilograms (53 ounces) of the narcotics hidden inside his backpack when he arrived at Bali airport from Bangkok in September.

The 30-year-old claimed the package belonged to a friend and he did not know it contained drugs.

Sayed Mohammed Said in court in the Balinese capital Denpasar on March 28, 2016, where he was handed a 14-year jail sentence for drug-smuggling Sonny Tumbelaka (AFP)

But he was found guilty Monday at a court in the Balinese capital Denpasar, and a judge handed down the 14-year sentence.

The prison term was lower than the 20 years recommended by prosecutors and he escaped a possible death penalty.

Indonesia has some of the world's toughest anti-narcotics laws. People caught smuggling more than five grams of some controlled substances can be sentenced to death.

Said's lawyer Daniar Trisasongko said his client was still considering whether to appeal.

"The verdict is too stern considering my client was unaware he was carrying drugs. We will study it further before deciding the next step," Trisasongko told AFP.

Foreigners are frequently arrested for attempting to smuggle narcotics into Bali, a popular holiday destination famed for its palm-fringed beaches.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo launched a tough campaign against narcotics use in 2014, which culminated in the execution by firing squad last year of seven foreign drug convicts including two Australians.
Israel advises citizens to leave Turkey citing attack risk

Israel on Monday advised its citizens to leave Turkey citing the potential for jihadist attacks after three Israelis were among four people killed in a March 19 suicide bombing in Istanbul.

"It has been decided to upgrade the existing travel warning vis-a-vis Turkey from a basic concrete threat to a high concrete threat, and to reiterate our recommendation to the public to avoid visiting the country and - for Israelis currently in Turkey - to leave as soon as possible," a government statement said.

The statement said the bombing highlighted the threat from Islamic State group militants "against tourist targets throughout Turkey and proves high capabilities of carrying out further attacks".

Turkey has suffered six bombings since July that have killed more than 200 people around the country Bulent Kilic (AFP)

"Terrorist infrastructures in Turkey continue to advance additional attacks against tourist targets - including Israeli tourists - throughout the country," it said.

Tens of thousands of Israelis visit nearby Turkey each year despite strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Three Israelis and an Iranian were killed and 39 people wounded when a man blew himself up on Istiklal Caddesi, a famous shopping street in the heart of Turkey's biggest city, on March 19.

The Turkish government said the bomber had links to IS.

IS has been blamed for four bombings that have rocked Turkey in the past eight months, including a massacre at a peace rally in the capital Ankara in October that claimed 103 lives.

Soldiers carry the coffin of an Israeli who was killed in an Istanbul suicide bombing onto a plane at Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport on March 20, 2016 Jack Guez (AFP/File)
Syria's Palmyra can be restored 'in five years'

Syria's antiquities chief said on Monday that his department would need five years to restore the ancient ruins of Palmyra damaged by the Islamic State jihadist group.

"If we have UNESCO's approval, we will need five years to restore the structures damaged or destroyed by IS," Maamoun Abdulkarim told AFP.

"We have the qualified staff, the knowledge and the research. With UNESCO's approval, we can start the work in a year's time."

The theatre in Palmyra, pictured on March 27, 2016, after government troops recaptured the UNESCO world heritage site from Islamic State group jihadists Maher Al Mounes (AFP/File)

Abdulkarim's remarks came after the Russian-backed Syrian army ousted IS from Palmyra on Sunday in the climax of a three-week offensive.

"Eighty percent of the ruins are in good shape," he said.

"My expert colleagues arrive today in Palmyra. I have asked them to assess the stones and the old city. They are taking pictures of the damage and documenting everything, and then the restoration can begin."

IS overran Palmyra in May last year, sparking global concern for the city's spectacular ancient ruins.

The jihadists used Palmyra's ancient theatre as a venue for public executions and also murdered the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief, Khaled al-Assaad.

They also destroyed the shrine of Baal Shamin.

In September, they demolished the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel, a gem of Classical architecture, and a month later blew up the Arch of Triumph, dating from around 200 AD.

They then destroyed a dozen of the city's best-preserved tower tombs.

Abdulkarim said a secret effort by his department had prevented the whole city from being razed.

"We were working with 45 to 50 people inside the city in order to convince Daesh, with public pressure, not to destroy everything," Abdulkarim said, using another name for IS.

"Daesh saw that there would be a popular uprising against it if it destroyed everything. It didn't steal and it didn't destroy everything," he said.
Taliban fire rockets at new Afghan parliament

Taliban insurgents fired a barrage of rockets at Afghanistan's newly built parliament complex in Kabul on Monday, as top security officials including the intelligence chief prepared to address the assembly.

Multiple rockets smashed into the sprawling compound, blowing out windows in one building. But no one was reported hurt and the parliament session continued uninterrupted.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid saying the rockets inflicted heavy casualties.

An Afghan policeman walks in front of the newly built parliament complex in Kabul on March 28, 2016 after Taliban insurgents fired a barrage of rockets at the complex Wakil Kohsar (AFP)

The militant group is known to exaggerate battlefield claims.

"While we discuss insecurity around the country, it is worrying that the enemy is able to strike the parliament in the heart of the capital," lawmaker Mohammad Abdou said during the session broadcast live on TV.

Taj Mohammad Jahed, the caretaker minister of interior who was due to address parliament along with the intelligence chief on the worsening security in Afghanistan, was apologetic.

"This should not have happened," Jahed said. "I will order new security measures for the parliament complex."

The swanky complex, built by India at an estimated cost of $90 million, was inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December.

Last June Taliban militants attacked the old parliament building, sending lawmakers running for cover in chaotic scenes relayed live on television
Japan's Abe hosts Mugabe as Tokyo vies for Africa influence

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday welcomed Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe -- the 92-year-old former guerrilla fighter who is widely shunned in the West but frequently courted in Asia.

Mugabe, whose country is subject to sanctions by the United States and European countries over its tainted human rights record, was visiting Japan for the fourth time as president and holding his third meeting with Abe.

The Japanese Prime Minister said he wants to work with Mugabe, who chaired the African Union last year, to help with Japan's push to reform the UN Security Council.

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe (L) shakes hands with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe following their joint press conference at the latter's official residence in Tokyo on March 28, 2016 Kimimasa Mayama (Pool/AFP)

"By closely coordinating with Mr Mugabe... we wish to help promote reform" of the global body, Abe told reporters, in remarks carried by Jiji Press, referring to Mugabe as an esteemed African elder.

After their talks, Japan announced development aid worth 600 million yen ($5.3 million) for the nation to buy equipment needed to build roads.

The welcome for Africa's longest-serving ruler comes as Japan tries to compete with China for influence in the continents fast-growing economies and as Tokyo prepares to sponsor a major conference on African development this August.

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Mugabe in 2014, calling him a renowned African liberation leader and an "old friend" of the Chinese people -- one of the country's highest compliments for visiting foreign leaders.

Abe met Mugabe at the last round of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, or TICAD, held in 2013 in Yokohama. This year's TICAD, slated for Kenya, will be the first to be held in Africa.

They also met last year during a UN disaster conference held in Japan.

Mugabe's latest visit comes as Japan has tried to maintain cordial ties even with states controlled by leaders who have antagonised Western nations, most notably Iran.

Abe has also reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin --- under intense criticism in the West for the annexation of Crimea and fighting in eastern Ukraine -- as Japan tries to solve a territorial row dating to the close of World War II.

Mugabe has led Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, with his rule marked by vote-rigging, mass emigration, accusations of human rights abuses and economic decline.
CIA chief visited Moscow this month for Syria talks: US official

CIA director John Brennan visited Moscow in early March to discuss Syria and put the case for the departure of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, a US official said Monday.

While meeting Russian officials, the spy agency chief "reiterated the US government's consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria, and the need for Assads departure," the US official told AFP.

Brennan also stressed "the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria," the US official said.

CIA Director John Brennan, pictured February 9, 2016, visited Moscow in early March to discuss Syria Molly Riley (AFP/File)

Russian deputy foreign minister Oleg Syromolotov confirmed Brennan's visit earlier Monday, telling journalists that "the fact that Brennan was here was not hidden," Interfax news agency reported.

"I know for sure that he was at the Federal Security Service (FSB)," Syromolotov added referring to the successor to the Soviet era KGB.

Syromolotov said Brennan did not visit the foreign ministry but did meet several other officials.

The senior diplomat denied that Brennan's visit was linked to Russia's decision announced on March 14 to withdraw most of its forces from Syria, calling the events "absolutely unconnected."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that he could not comment, adding that Brennan had "no contacts with the Kremlin".
Egypt forces 32 judges to retire over Morsi ouster

Egypt's Supreme Judicial Council on Monday forced 32 judges into retirement for having opposed the army's ouster of Islamist president Mohamed Morsi in 2013, officials said.

Morsi was deposed by then army chief and now President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and since then the authorities have cracked down on all forms of dissent, including secularists and liberals.

"Today, the Supreme Judicial Council took a decision to force 32 judges into retirement for intervening in politics and supporting a certain party" after the ouster of Morsi, a senior official from the council said on condition of anonymity.

A supporter of the Egyptian Army and General Abel Fattah al-Sissi protests outside the high court on the first day of Mohamed Morsi's trial on November 4, 2013 in Cairo Mahmoud Khaled (AFP/File)

Last week the council had taken similar action against 15 other judges for the same reason.

These judges have been suspended since March 2015 after a lower panel of the council ordered they be sent into retirement. On Monday the council upheld that order.

The judges had refused to recognise the legality of the ouster of Morsi, Egypt's first freely elected president who was ousted after mass street protests against his sole year of divisive rule.

The council official said that some of the judges had openly declared their opposition to his ouster at the time in a signed statement at Cairo's Rabaa al-Adawiya Square.

Thousands of pro-Morsi supporters had demonstrated at the square for weeks demanding the Islamist's reinstatement.

On August 14, 2013 police stormed the square to disperse the sit-in.

About 700 people were killed within hours at Rabaa al-Adawiya and the capital's Nahda Square where another similar sit-in was being held.

Hundreds more were killed in street clashes with police over several months after the August 14 carnage.

Global rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch say that at least 40,000 people were arrested within the first year of Morsi's ouster on July 3, 2013.

Hundreds more have been sentenced to death or lengthy jail terms after speedy mass trials, including Morsi and several leaders of his outlawed Muslim Brotherhood movement.

The International Commission for Jurists urged Egypt to reverse the decision concerning the judges.

"The intensity of Egypt's attacks against individual judges is reaching a frightening level," said Said Benarbia, Middle East and North Africa director at ICJ.
US governor rejects Georgia bill deemed anti-gay

The Republican governor of Georgia has rejected a "religious freedoms" bill that giant corporations, Hollywood and activists bitterly complained would infringe gay rights in the southeastern US state.

It made Nathan Deal the second Republican governor this month to oppose legislation deemed to discriminate against the LGBT as North Carolina was slammed for restricting transgender bathroom rights.

The Georgia bill would have allowed pastors to refuse to perform gay marriages and allowed churches and faith-based groups, on the basis of religious belief, to refuse to hire or provide services to gays.

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has rejected a "religious freedoms" bill that giant corporations, Hollywood and activists bitterly complained would infringe gay rights Davis Turner (Getty/AFP/File)

Apple, Disney, Microsoft, Marriott and the National Football League were among those who urged Deal to block the measure, which had been approved by the Republican-controlled state assembly.

"I do not think we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia of which my family and I are a part of for all of our lives," Deal told a news conference.

A string of large companies had called on the governor not to sign the bill into law, with Disney threatening to take its business elsewhere.

More than 240 film and television productions were shot in Georgia last year, generating $1.7 billion in spending, according to the state.

Oscar-winning Hollywood A-listers Anne Hathaway and Julianne Moore were among those who weighed in, urging the governor to use his veto.

"This is about the character of our state and the character of its people," Deal said.

"Our people work side-by-side without regard to the color of our skin, or the religion we adhere to. We are working to make life better for our families and our communities. That is the character of Georgia. I intend to do my part to keep it that way."

The governor has until May 3 to enact his veto, a member of his office told AFP.

- North Carolina travel ban -

Timothy Head, executive director of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, said his group would continue to fight to pass the legislation and called the governor's rejection "very disappointing."

"The people of Georgia lost today," he said in a statement, denying that the bill authorized discrimination.

Instead it would have protected pastors, churches and faith-based groups from being forced to violate their religious beliefs, he said.

But gay rights campaigners, led by the Human Rights Campaign, welcomed the governor's intervention.

"The message to Governor Nathan Deal was loud and clear: this deplorable legislation was bad for his constituents, bad for business, and bad for Georgia's future," said Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin.

On Monday, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against a law passed in North Carolina deemed discriminatory against members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.

Republican Governor Pat McCrory last week signed the bill into law, which among other things stipulates that transgender students must use the bathroom reflecting the gender of their birth.

Andrew Cuomo, governor of New York, the fourth most populous state in the country, banned non-essential, publicly-funded travel to North Carolina, effective immediately and to last until the law is repealed.

"In New York, we believe that all people -- regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation -- deserve the same rights and protections under the eyes of the law," he said Monday.

Last year, Cuomo imposed the same ban on travel to Indiana after the state's legislature passed a bill that did not prohibit discrimination against LGBT citizens. It was later amended.

The National Basketball Association is among vocal critics, saying the law runs against its principles of equality and could impact its ability to host the 2017 All-Star Game in Charlotte.

Earlier this month, South Dakota Republican Governor Dennis Daugaard vetoed legislation that would have prevented public school pupils who identify as transgender from accessing the bathroom and locker rooms of their choice.
Pandora shares plunge as cofounder returns as CEO

Shares of Pandora plunged Monday as news that co-founder Tim Westergren was returning as chief executive failed to ignite confidence in the group's long-term prospects.

Westergren, who helped found the Internet radio service in the early 2000s and served as chief executive from 2002 to 2004, replaces Brian McAndrews, who is stepping down.

"Tim is the ideal CEO for Pandora as we embark on our next phase of growth," said chairman Jim Feuille.

Tim Westergren, pictured on January 17, 2012, is one of Pandora's founders and served as chief executive from 2002 to 2004 Alex Wong (Getty/AFP/File)

"As the original founder, Tim carries the vision for how Pandora can transform the music industry and he is uniquely able to connect with listeners, music makers and employees."

In midday trade, shares of Pandora were down 10.2 percent at $9.82.

Pandora shares have come under pressure as rivals such as Apple and Spotify have built up signficant Internet music businesses. In 2015, Pandora reported a loss of $169.7 million.

US media have reported that the company has hired Morgan Stanley to advise it on strategic options, including a possible sale of the company.

Westergren, a musician and composer who worked in the music industry for more than 20 years, helped launch Pandora's Music Genome Project, which suggests new music selections to consumers based on their taste. The service caught on, enabling Pandora to go public in 2011 with more than 80 million registered users.

However, shares have fallen steeply over the last two years as competition has intensified.

Faced with slowing growth, the company has unveiled a plan of heavy investment to ramp up its on-demand service, expand its event ticketing operations and build a bigger international presence. The company in February said these initiatives would allow it to notch $4 billion in annual revenues within five years, compared with $1.2 billion in 2015.
Twenty-five Cubans reach Florida island

A group of 25 Cuban immigrants were rescued early Monday after reaching an island in the Florida Keys in the latest of a wave of crossings from the communist-ruled nation, local authorities said.

The Cubans were spotted on Cook Island by a passing boater and personnel from the local sheriff's office ferried them to Little Torch Key and turned them over to US Customs and Border Patrol agents.

"They were all in good condition," the Monroe County sheriff's office said.

A group of 25 Cuban immigrants were rescued after reaching an island in the Florida Keys Eliot J Schechter (AFP/File)

The 24 men and a woman, who will be allowed to remain in the United States under Cold War-era immigration laws, were the latest in a growing surge of Cubans making the dangerous voyage.

Many are risking their lives in the attempt for fear that the normalization of US-Cuban relations undertaken by Presidents Barack Obama and Raul Castro presages an end to the special status granted Cuban immigrants under the law.

On Saturday, the US Coast Guard intercepted a makeshift boat carrying 26 Cubans, including seven with gunshot wounds.

Two of the wounded said they were fired on by a group of assailants who had tried to take the raft from them as they were setting off from Cuba.

Six of the wounded were taken to hospitals in the Florida Keys and Miami, and will be allowed to stay in the country, having touched dry land, a requirement for benefitting from US laws granting Cubans a fast-track to legal residency in the United States.

The rest will be repatriated to Cuba.

On March 18, a cruise ship picked up a group of 18 severely dehydrated Cuban immigrants off the coast of Florida, but nine others died during the attempted crossing.

More than 43,000 Cubans entered the United States by sea or land during the 2015 fiscal year ending in September, a number not seen in decades.
Cameroon doubts bomb girl's claim to be Chibok abductee

Authorities in Cameroon on Monday poured doubt on a would-be suicide bomber's claim that she is one of the 276 Nigerian school girls kidnapped by Boko Haram jihadists in 2014.

"We don't think that she was one of the girls (kidnapped) from Chibok," an administration official who requested anonymity told AFP, citing inconsistencies over her apparent age.

The girl in question is one of two would-be suicide bombers arrested in northern Cameroon on Friday wearing 12-kilogramme (26-pound) explosives belts.

Cameroonian soldiers stand post in the town of Fotokol, on the border with Nigeria, after clashes with Boko Haram insurgents on February 17, 2015 Reinnier Kaze (AFP/File)

Less than a month before the second anniversary of the brazen kidnapping which shook the world, 219 students from the northern Nigerian town of Chibok remain missing and there are few signs that the government is making progress on finding and securing their release.

Nigeria is planning to send a delegation, including Chibok parents, to Cameroon to meet the girl, and the presidency said late Monday that people from the town were being shown her photograph to see if they recognised her.

"The girl was found to be heavily drugged and bore several injuries on her body. The girl's health condition had delayed her movement to the far north regional capital of Cameroon, Maroua, as earlier planned," the presidency said.

"Pictures of the arrested suspected bomber obtained by Nigerian officials indicated that the girl was likely a minor, between ages nine to 12 years," the statement added.

The "Bring Back Our Girls" advocacy group said that the youngest of those kidnapped in 2014 was 16 years old at the time.

The Nigerian presidency continued: "Considering the well-known guidelines regarding the publication of photography of minors, we have decided to forward the pictures of the suspected bomber to the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (a non-profit) for verification by interested Chibok community stakeholders."

- Bombers 'often drugged' -

Boko Haram has carried out suicide bombings often using girls as part of its armed campaign to establish an Islamic state in northern Nigeria.

Midjiyawa Bakari, governor of Cameroon's North Region had already on Saturday voiced doubts about the claim by one of the two girls arrested that she had been part of the mass kidnapping.

"We are treating this statement with caution," he said, adding that such would-be attackers "are often drugged and can say anything".

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari's spokesman Garba Shehu on Sunday echoed those doubts, noting that the girl appeared too young to be one of the kidnapped girls.

The Nigerian presidency said Monday that the girl's accomplice appeared to be in her thirties, after earlier reports that the other bomber was also aged around ten. Both spoke the local Kanuri language.

Boko Haram has suffered substantial setbacks in recent months in the face of a counteroffensive by national armies from the region.

At least 17,000 people have been killed since Boko Haram launched an insurgency in 2009 to carve out an Islamic state in northeast Nigeria.

More than 2.6 million people have fled their homes since the start of the violence but some of the internally displaced have returned home after troops began the fight-back last year and recaptured territory.
Monday, April 4

Today is Monday, April 4, the 95th day of 2016. There are 271 days left in the year.

Highlights in history on this date:

1581 - England's Queen Elizabeth I knights Francis Drake, the first English captain to circumnavigate the globe.

1611 - Denmark's King Christian IV declares war on Sweden.

1687 - James II of England orders a pro-Catholic declaration read in church. Bishops refuse and the crisis culminates in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

1841 - President William Henry Harrison dies of pneumonia one month after his inauguration, becoming the first U.S. president to die in office.

1844 - Germany occupies Southwest Africa, Togoland and Cameroons.

1902 - The Rhodes scholarship is established by Cecil Rhodes, empire builder and founder of Africa's Rhodesia.

1942 - Japanese naval forces sink three British warships in the Bay of Bengal during World War II.

1945 - U.S. forces liberate the Nazi death camp at Ohrdruf in Germany.

1949 - North Atlantic Treaty is signed in Washington by foreign ministers of United States, Britain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, Portugal, Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Canada for mutual assistance against aggression in the North Atlantic.

1959 - Ivory Coast signs series of agreements with Niger, Upper Volta and Dahomey to form the Sahel-Benin Union.

1964 - Archbishop Makarios abrogates 1960 treaty between Greece, Turkey and Cyprus, and heavy fighting erupts in northwest Cyprus.

1968 - Civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee.

1975 - A U.S. Air Force transport plane evacuating Vietnamese orphans crashes shortly after takeoff from Saigon, killing more than 130 people, most of them children.

1979 - Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the deposed prime minister of Pakistan, is hung after he is convicted of conspiring to murder a political opponent.

1986 - Israel formally asks for access to United Nations War Crimes Commission file on former U.N. Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim.

1988 - Iran hammers Iraq's vital oil centers with missiles and fighter-bombers.

1990 - The National People's Congress, China's legislature, approves the Basic Law, the constitution that will govern Hong Kong after it reverts to Chinese sovereignty in 1997; Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev warns republic of Estonia to rescind independence declaration.

1992 - More than 1,200 French troops, the first major contingent of a U.N. peacekeeping force, arrive in war-torn Croatia, as Bosnia mobilizes its national guard to quell violence.

1993 - Boris Yeltsin receives a $1.6-billion U.S. aid package for Russia intended to help him fend off attacks from hard-liners before the April 25 referendum on his reforms.

1994 - Serbs launch major attack on besieged Muslim enclave of Gorazde in Bosnia.

2000 - West African intervention troops begin formally pulling out of Sierra Leone, amid fears the withdrawal may leave a security vacuum following the country's brutal eight-year civil war.

2001 - Sudan's Defense Minister and 14 other military officers are killed when their plane crashes on takeoff. The loss comes during a critical point in country's civil war.

2002 - Israel continues its sweeping military offensive in the West Bank, despite U.S. calls to withdraw from Palestinian areas.

2004 - Slovenes overwhelmingly vote against restoring the rights of thousands of minorities who were stripped of their citizenship when Slovenia broke away from Yugoslavia. More than 18,000 mostly Bosnians, Croats and Serbs were officially erased from state records after Slovenia declared its independence in 1991, effectively losing their right to permanent residency.

2005 - Kyrgyz President Askar Akayev, who took refuge in Russia after protesters raided his offices, formally resigns from office  a move seen as a major step toward restoring stability in his troubled country.

2006 - In its most detailed report yet on alleged secret rendition flights of terror suspects, Amnesty International says three former detainees have lent support to the idea that eastern European countries may have been involved in secret CIA flights to so-called "black site" prisons.

2007 - Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad announces the release of 15 captive British sailors and marines who were seized 13 days earlier in the northern Persian Gulf by an Iranian force who claimed they were trespassing.

2008 - Child welfare officials following up on an abuse complaint take custody of 18 girls who lived at a secretive West Texas religious retreat built by polygamist leader Warren Jeffs. A total of 52 girls, ages 6 months to 17 years, are bused away to be interviewed.

2009 - European leaders enthusiastically praise President Barack Obama's new Afghan strategy at a NATO summit but hold their ground on a central disagreement over troop levels and offer only military trainers and extra security forces for upcoming elections. Violent anti-war protests mar the alliance's 60th anniversary celebrations.

2010 - Nine miners are pulled to safety after spending more than a week trapped in a flooded coal mine in northern China, and state television reports more survivors may be found.

2011 - A diplomatic push by Moammar Gadhafi's regime runs into trouble as opponents at home and abroad reject any solution to the Libyan conflict that would involve one of his sons taking power.

2012 - The United States says that it will soon nominate an ambassador to Myanmar and ease some travel and financial restrictions on the formerly military-run Southeast Asian nation following historic elections that saw opposition gains in parliament.

2013 - The recently reopened Somali National Theater turns into a scene of screams, chaos and blood when a suicide bomber attacks, killing 10 people, wounding dozens and shattering a tentative peace in the capital of Mogadishu.

2014 - On the eve of elections in Afghanistan, veteran Associated Press photographer Anja Niedringhaus is killed and AP correspondent Kathy Gannon is wounded when an Afghan policeman opens fire on their car in the city of Khost.

2015 - Somalia's Islamic extremist group al-Shabab warns of more attacks in Kenya like the assault on Garissa University College that killed nearly 150 people two days earlier.

Today's Birthdays:

Grinling Gibbons, English sculptor (1648-1721); Nicola Antonio Zingarelli, Italian composer (1752-1837); Edith Soedergran, Finnish poet (1892-1923); Marguerite Duras, French writer (1914-1996); Maya Angelou, U.S. poet (1928-2014); Anthony Perkins, U.S. actor (1932-1992); Craig T. Nelson , U.S. actor (1944--); Clive Davis, U.S. music executive (1932--); Robert Downey Jr., U.S. actor (1965--).

Thought for Today:
In good company: Retirement community boasts 6 centenarians

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP)  With roughly 72,000 centenarians in the United States, it's not all that unusual to find several clustered in the same city. But to have several living under the same roof in the same city?

That's rare, said Thomas Perls, director of the New England Centenarian Study at Boston University.

A wealthy retirement community in Providence, Rhode Island, boasts six centenarians. The oldest, Elsa Zopfi, is 104. The youngest, David Richardson, celebrated his 100th birthday on Sunday.

In this Wednesday, March 16, 2016 photo, 104-year-old Elsa Zopfi, originally of Switzerland, sits for a portrait at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

Eva Sheer and Robert Kenyon are 102. Lottie Posner is 101, and Samuel Bender is 100. Zopfi, Kenyon and Bender sat down together recently at the Laurelmead retirement community to talk about their lives.

___

EARLIEST MEMORIES

Having grown up in Glarus, Switzerland, Zopfi said she remembers the day in 1914 that her father was inducted into the Army in Switzerland.

"The alarm bells were ringing in the church, everybody was running, the trains were coming to take the people to the border, my mother was running around to find my father's things to put in a backpack. He had a big backpack that he had to carry and then everybody ran to the train. The train was full of these men who had to go to the border. It was terrible."

Kenyon, a lifelong Rhode Islander, remembers being in his father's office in downtown Providence on Nov. 11, 1918, when the armistice was signed to end World War I. "I was 4 years old and it was quite an occasion," he said, recalling the crowds and merrymaking.

Bender lived in a tenement house in Brooklyn, New York, as a child before moving north to a farm outside Albany. He played stickball in the streets of Brooklyn and traveled by horse-drawn trolley cars. "We used to follow the ice wagons and pick pieces of ice that were chopped off by the iceman."

Ice was a "delicacy" on a hot day, he said.

___

QUIRKY STORIES

Bender couldn't afford to go to college immediately after high school, so he worked odd jobs to save up, then picked the cheapest school he could find  Kansas State in Manhattan, Kansas.

"The only fee they charged was an out-of-state fee of $63, which I didn't have. I went to the registrar and said, 'I'd like to start class tomorrow, but I haven't got the money.' He says, 'Don't worry about it. When you get it, bring it.'"

After one year, Bender said, he transferred to the veterinary college at Cornell University because he got a $100 loan for the lab fee. He became a veterinarian and got married. His wife's ring cost $1.

Zopfi, a champion skier in her youth, has many fond memories of life in Switzerland.

"I was born in 1911; we didn't even have any cars before that. I lived in a place in Switzerland where the first races were held with cars over the mountain pass. The big guys came from Germany, from France, and everybody was staying overnight in our little town. It was the biggest excitement of my life in those days."

She moved to the United States in 1935 to marry a man from her hometown who managed a textile mill in Webster, Massachusetts. She was a community volunteer.

Kenyon, who studied economics at Brown University, worked in an office in Providence that managed properties and financial assets. During WWII, he said, he wasn't accepted into the military because of a mild heart defect.

"They assured me it would not shorten my life," the 102-year-old said. "So far, it hasn't."

___

SECRET TO A LONG LIFE

All three keep busy. Zopfi likes to talk and is known for being the first to arrive at the retirement community's events. Bender swims and can often be found at the gym. Kenyon is an avid reader. They often socialize in the dining room.

Bender joked that he can easily find an audience for his stories.

"They never get stale, because I can repeat them six months later and they're still new," he said with a chuckle.

They all have a good sense of humor, and their relatives have lived long lives, too. While Zopfi said she hasn't found the "secret," she thinks leading an active life has helped. She has never known anyone as old as she is now.

"I'm surprised myself at how old I'm getting," she said. "I'm just experiencing now from day to day. I don't know yet how I judge it. I think if I can still read a little bit and I can talk to people and understand what they're saying, this is a big plus."

The ranks of Americans who make it past their 100th birthday is growing, according to a government report issued in January. The latest census figures put the number of centenarians at 72,000, up from about 50,000 in 2000.

Kenyon said he doesn't think about his age all that much; he just tries to take one day at a time.

Bender said he thinks about the people he has had the privilege of meeting, the places he traveled and the adventures he had.

"Life," he said, "has been an achievement."

In this Wednesday, March 16, 2016 photo, 99-year-old David Richardson, who turns 100 on March 27, 2016 sits for a portrait at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Wednesday, March 16, 2016 photo, 100-year-old Samuel Bender sits for a portrait at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Wednesday, March 16, 2016 photo, 101-year-old Lottie Posner, originally of Germany, sits for a portrait at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Wednesday, March 16, 2016 photo, 102-year-old Robert Kenyon sits for a portrait at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016 photo, 104-year-old Elsa Zopfi, originally of Switzerland, goes for a walk on a path at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016 photo, 100-year-old Samuel Bender, left, laughs with 87-year-old Richard Forsyth, right, while working out in a gym at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016 photo, 100-year-old Samuel Bender, left, and 87-year-old Richard Forsyth, right, work out in a gym at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016 photo, 100-year-old Samuel Bender works out in a gym at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016 photo, 100-year-old Samuel Bender, in reflection at right, works out in a gym with fitness assistant Karelene Morales, of Pawtucket, R.I., center, at Laurelmead Cooperative retirement community, in Providence, R.I. The wealthy retirement community has six centenarians. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)
AP Investigation: How con man used China to launder millions

ASHDOD, Israel (AP)  Gilbert Chikli was rolling in money, stolen from some of the world's biggest corporations. His targets: Accenture. Disney. American Express. In less than two years, he made off with at least 6.1 million euros from France alone.

But he had a problem. He couldn't spend the money. A tangle of banking rules designed to stop con men like him stood between Chikli and his cash. He needed to find a weak link in the global financial system, a place to make his stolen money appear legitimate.

He found it in China.

Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

"China has become a universal, international gateway for all manner of scams," he said in an interview with The Associated Press. "Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."

A visionary con man, Chikli realized early on  around 2000, the year before China joined the World Trade Organization  the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise, its entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. The French-Israeli man told the AP he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance.

Today, he is in good company.

Criminals around the world have discovered that a good way to liberate their dirty money is to send it to China, which is emerging as an international hub for money laundering, an AP investigation has found. Gangs from Israel and Spain, North African cannabis dealers and cartels from Mexico and Colombia are among those using China as a haven where they can safely hide money, clean it, and pump it back into the global financial system, according to police officials, European and U.S. court records and intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

China's central bank and police refused repeated requests for comment.

In a regular briefing with reporters Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said the government "places great emphasis" on fighting crimes such as money laundering and is working to expand international cooperation. "China is not, has not been, nor will be in the future a center of global money laundering," he said.

Chikli is widely credited in France with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president or fake CEO scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. And the damages are rising fast.

Security cameras poke over the high wooden fence that encircles Chikli's property, a sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port city on the Mediterranean. Beyond that, a swing set, pink-and-purple tricycle and orange ball jumble his lawn. And then there is Chikli himself, tan and smiling at his massive front door. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison by a French court last year and remains a wanted man, but here in Israel, he lives openly and talked about his criminal exploits with pride during four hours of interviews with the AP.

"It's the power of persuasion," he said. "It's not easy to turn the head of a bank president."

Dirty money has long washed through China, but has been viewed primarily as a domestic problem. Now, mounting evidence shows that non-Chinese criminals are learning to tap entrenched, sophisticated Chinese systems to move money illegally largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement.

China's underground financial systems are of rising concern to top policymakers there, who are struggling to stem massive capital flight as the economy slows. Despite strict currency controls, a record net $711 billion gushed out of China last year, not counting foreign direct investment, according to estimates by Fitch Ratings.

A lot of that money leaks out illegally. Corporations undervalue exports or overvalue imports to move capital abroad, for example. Money changers and underground banks routinely help mainland Chinese slip cash out of the country in excess of the official $50,000-a-year limit. Global Financial Integrity, a Washington-D.C. non-profit, ranks China as the world's largest exporter of illicit money.

"Wherever I go in the world, there is a growing Chinese presence," said John Cassara, a former financial intelligence agent at the U.S. Treasury Department. "It's only natural that the Chinese are going to bring their financial systems with them  their above-board financial systems and their underground systems."

"It's completely off the radar screen," Cassara said. "No one knows about it."

But Chikli knew.

"Gilbert Chikli knows that China is a springboard to be able to bounce money off of," said the con man, who often spoke of himself in the third person. "It's not a secret. The whole world knows that China is a hub for sending and receiving money."

___

THE 'FAKE CEO SCAM'

The first con, the one that made Chikli realize he had "the gift," began in Paris on the afternoon of July 25, 2005, with a phone call.

When Madame G., who ran a branch of La Banque Postale, picked up the phone, a man with a sure, powerful voice said he was the bank's CEO and needed her help on a top-secret terrorism investigation, French court documents show. He dropped details about past meetings that left Madame G., whose name cannot be published due to French privacy laws, convinced of his identity. The man told her a secret agent named Paul would be in touch.

Following instructions, Madame G. bought a burner phone to communicate with Paul. Over the next three days, he hammered her with 43 calls.

Some of the bank's clients, Paul explained, were suspected of running money for terrorists. Less than three weeks earlier, four suicide bombers linked to al-Qaida blew themselves up in central London, killing 52 people and injuring 700 more. Photographs of bloody, burned commuters staggering from the London Underground were everywhere.

Paul told Madame G. he needed the names of the bank's biggest clients. He wanted her to bring him cash. He would scan the bills to see if they were stolen, then they'd meet at a bistro on Rue de la Paix and he'd return the money. She was a key player in a major anti-terrorism operation.

He was counting on her.

On July 28, Madame G. stuffed 358,000 euros ($398,000) in a bag and took a taxi to a cafe in eastern Paris. She walked into a stall in the restroom. She heard a woman say the secret password. Madame G. passed the cash-filled bag under the stall. Mission accomplished.

Then she went to the bistro on Rue de la Paix and waited on the terrace. But where was Paul?

After she went to the police, investigators eventually traced the calls to Chikli. Paul was, in Chikli's telling, just one of his many stage names. The woman who took the cash in the bathroom was Chikli's mistress. Chikli's brother, Simon, drove the getaway car, according to French court documents.

Back then, it was a game to Chikli. But if he wanted to get more money than would fit in a sack, he had to take his criminal ambitions global.

Banks are supposed to know their customers  not just their identities, but also where their money comes from. To scale up his fraud, Chikli needed a way around international anti-money laundering norms.

He had a number of options for cleaning his cash. Chikli called HSBC and tricked an employee into sending money to one of his Hong Kong front companies, which bounced it to a guy in Fujian province, who told investigators that he often used his bank account to launder money for Israelis, in exchange for a 5 percent commission. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts.

The Bank of China refused to comment.

But Chikli's preferred method, which he described for the first time in detail to the AP, was to use import-export schemes.

Such trade-based money laundering is a growing concern for U.S. authorities. Mexican and Colombian drug cartels laundered more than $5 billion in drug proceeds in part by exporting counterfeit goods from China, according to a U.S. Justice Department indictment against three Colombians based in Guangzhou.

Chikli ordered companies to send money to bank accounts around the world  often, he said, in Eastern Europe. Then, he'd bounce the funds to Hong Kong and China and arrange for them to be withdrawn in cash. The money was used to purchase merchandise  shoes, gold, steel, textiles  in China. For a commission, the Chinese vendor then issued highly inflated receipts to Chikli's shell companies, creating a "legal" paper trail. Typically, Chikli said, he'd actually buy some goods, while forwarding most of his cash to another account he controlled. He might purchase, say, 20 tons of steel, but bribe the vendor to give him a receipt for 100 tons.

Chikli sold the goods and then sent the money to Israel, where false invoices made the entire sum look like legitimate trading profits, he said.

"Everything is clean," he said. "Give me the documents and everything is fine."

___

THE WASHING MACHINE

Chikli used to run a clothing company in Sentier, a late 18th-century Paris neighborhood built atop a medieval slum. Sentier was once a neighborhood for strivers  first Jews from Eastern Europe and North Africa, then Chinese who moved into the wholesale textile trade. Chikli forged the idea for his scam on these streets.

The tools of his trade are simple: telephones. Chikli called the company that runs Disneyland Paris, pretending to be the CEO. He called French technology conglomerate Thomson SA and persuaded an employee to transfer millions to accounts in Russia, Switzerland and England. He called Barclays, Galeries Lafayette, American Express.

Eventually, French authorities caught up with him and put him on trial for dozens of attempted frauds, many thwarted only at the last moment. In 2009, Chikli posted 30,000 euros ($33,500) bail. His passport was confiscated and he was ordered to remain in France to stand trial. Instead, he chartered a private plane, he claims, and fled to Israel.

A French court found him guilty last May of defrauding La Banque Postale, LCL bank and HSBC, along with Thomson and Accenture, out of 6.1 million euros, and attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others. But by then, he was living by the sea in Ashdod.

It was, perhaps, his most masterful con of all.

Israeli authorities would not say whether France had made a formal request for Chikli's extradition. French judicial officials have not responded to repeated requests for clarification on the status of any extradition request related to Chikli. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in some cases.

Israeli authorities also declined to explain why Chikli is able to live freely in Israel. A spokesman for the state attorney's office, Noam Sharvit, would only say that Israeli law enforcement is "doing all they can to fight and contain these criminal phenomena."

Law enforcement has not globalized as fast as crime, and the legal firewall that surrounds China has added to its appeal as a money-laundering hub.

Chinese authorities generally have done little to help Western companies defrauded in Chikli-style scams recover their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

The U.S. State Department, in a report this month, reproached China for lackluster performance on money-laundering investigations.

"China has not cooperated sufficiently on financial investigations and does not provide adequate responses to requests for financial investigation information," the State Department wrote.

Jay Bienkowski, an FBI supervisory special agent in Washington who has retired since speaking to the AP, said extradition is crucial for apprehending criminals across borders. But China and the U.S. do not have an extradition treaty.

Europol, the European Union law enforcement agency, has no cooperation agreement with China.

"For us it's a blind spot," said Igor Angelini, Europol's head of financial intelligence.

___

'MAYBE IT WAS GOD'

Chikli insists he no longer runs fake CEO scams. But a new generation of fraudsters is copying his technique. Using information gleaned from social media and hacking, they impersonate top executives and convince employees to route money to accounts they control, ostensibly to do business deals or pay suppliers.

The FBI said it received 13,500 complaints from fake CEO scam victims around the world  a rise of 270 percent last year.

"It's a significant scam. Big dollars, and relatively recent," said Bienkowski. "It's scary."

The frauds hinge on delicate detail: A faked email ending in .co instead of .com. A name off by a single letter. The pressure is always relentless. A critical deal must be executed immediately, in total secrecy. A new supplier urgently needs payment.

The FBI traced fake CEO scam transfers to more than 70 different countries. "At the very top of that list is Hong Kong and China," Bienkowski said.

Some of the networks now running fake CEO scams are collaborating with Chinese migrants in Europe to launder their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

"Non-Chinese criminal groups committing CEO frauds are sending money to China because Chinese criminal groups in Europe are giving them cash," Angelini told the AP. "The scale of this phenomenon is quite substantial."

Police believe Chinese migrants and Israeli con men first learned to work together in Chikli's old neighborhood, Sentier, forging a system for laundering money so elegant that today some migrants consider it "the fastest and most secure and most reliable method for Chinese merchants to transfer their funds to China," according to European intelligence documents.

The methods they've devised are a variation of the ancient Chinese system of fei qian (FAY ch'ien), or "flying money."

Chinese immigrants first give their cash to a trusted member of the local Chinese community in France, Italy, Spain, Belgium or Germany and indicate where their money should be remitted. That Chinese intermediary  the bagman  provides the Israeli contacts with the relevant bank account information. The Israelis then direct their stolen money to those accounts in China. Once the Chinese confirm the money has landed in the correct account, the bagman hands over their cash, in euros, to the Israelis.

The Israelis get euros in Europe, the Chinese get yuan in China. "It works like an offsetting operation between (the) Chinese community and crooks in Israel," according to the intelligence documents, which note that the Israelis usually charge a 2.5 percent fee.

France's financial crimes squad in June busted a similar money transfer network in a Chinese wholesale district in Aubervilliers, in the suburbs of Paris, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers.

While Chikli's copycats may have tapped into flying money networks, Chikli said he never used them himself. He claimed that many of the people running scams today are French Jews who have fled anti-Semitism in France and use the con to rebuild their lives in Israel.

"If it can help these families who have lost everything in France," he said, "then all the better. "Maybe it was God that gave me this idea."

___

'THANK YOU FOR CALLING'

At 50, Chikli's even, chiseled face is beginning to show signs of age. He insists his intention was never to harm people, but to take revenge on a financial system that lets the rich steal with impunity. He saw who wielded real power in the world: Corporations and the people that run them. And if the son of a poor Tunisian car mechanic could not be a CEO, he could at least pretend to be one.

"I understood that the bankers were never convicted," he said. "If the bankers were never convicted, then I needed to indirectly become an official banker."

As a scrappy 8-year-old, Chikli stole notebooks from school and resold them to his classmates. He later got into credit card fraud. "We would go shopping," he said. "It was pretty nice because we felt like we were the owners of something, which we were not."

He studied acting. Worked in advertising and real estate. But his true vocation was persuasion.

"The brain is the world's most dangerous weapon," Chikli said. "I learned not to control but to try to make someone believe that I was right. And from that moment, all the doors opened."

Chikli calls this "the gift." With it, extracting millions from some of the world's best educated and most privileged can be a matter of a single phone call. "It can last two hours. It can last four hours. It can last five minutes," he said. "It's cinema."

Chikli maintains that his real accomplices were the employees who took his calls and complied with his demands. He threatened them. He bullied them. He seduced them.

He said he made amends to about 30 people who executed his orders  some of whom lost their jobs  by sending credit cards linked to offshore bank accounts with about 50,000 euros ($55,800) each.

"Everyone took  everyone. There was not one who refused," he claimed. He said he gave one bank manager 18 roses. "She was pulverized," he said. "If I remember correctly, we sent her 180,000 euros. That's how we wanted to apologize."

Chikli would provide no evidence to support his claims.

Today, Chikli has himself amassed many trappings of a banker's life: White baby grand piano. Glass elevator. Fendi bedboard. A glam wife 19 years his junior tattooed with "Gilbert" in curling letters next to a heart on her slim wrist.

"I have six children," he said. "I take my kids to school. I am home at 8 p.m. every night. Sincerely, I am the most simple man in the world."

This fugitive from French justice is the hero of a new film starring Julie Gayet, the companion of French President Francois Hollande. Producer Isaac Sharry met Chikli while he was awaiting trial in a French jail and paid him for the rights to his story.

The heist-thriller based on Chikli's life, "Je Compte sur Vous," is also being marketed in English.

The title: "Thank You for Calling."

___

Associated Press writers Eric Tucker in Washington, Josef Federman in Jerusalem, Gerry Shih in Beijing, Angela Charlton, Nicolas Vaux-Montagny, and Philippe Sotto in Paris, and AP researcher Fu Ting in Shanghai contributed to this story.

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In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli gestures during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli is widely credited with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president, fake CEO or business email compromise scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, and his wife Shirly Chikli, 31, pose for a photo at their home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, the house belonging to convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is seen in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. A French court convicted Chikli of defrauding five companies of 6.1 million euros and attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others. He was sentenced to seven years in absentia and fined 1 million euros. Chikli remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in the past. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli smiles during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli realized the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise. He said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli clasps his hands during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli is widely credited with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president, fake CEO or business email compromise scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, uses his phone at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted conman Gilbert Chikli pauses during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli realized the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise. He said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, and his wife Shirly Chikli, 31, pose for a photo at their home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

FILE - In this May 12, 2015, file photo, visitors walk near Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland Paris, in Marne la Vallee, France. A French court convicted con man Gilbert Chikli of attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 companies, including Barclays, American Express and the company that runs Disneyland Paris. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison and fined 1 million euros. Chikli remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in the past.(AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. Chinese characters on the banner read "China Commerce City". France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. Sign in Chinese reads "China Europe Trade and Commerce City". (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016, photo, Chinese paramilitary policemen march outside the Bank of China headquarters in Beijing, China. Convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is credited with masterminding a fraud that has cost major multinational companies $1.8 billion in just over two years. Chikli said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016, photo, Chinese men sit outside the Bank of China headquarters in Beijing, China. Convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is credited with masterminding a fraud that has cost major multinational companies $1.8 billion in just over two years. Chikli said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this Wednesday, March 2, 2016, photo, people are reflected on a glass case displaying a poster featuring a 100 dollar Hong Kong colonial bank note in Hong Kong. China and Hong Kong are emerging as a global hub for money laundering, with criminals from around the world slipping their dirty money into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance, taking advantage of entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

In this Wednesday, March 2, 2016, photo, two men are silhouetted as they cross the street in Central, a business district of Hong Kong. China and Hong Kong are emerging as a global hub for money laundering, with criminals from around the world slipping their dirty money into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance, taking advantage of entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)
AP Investigation: China launders cash of foreign criminals

ASHDOD, Israel (AP)  Scam artists, drug cartels and gangs from around the world have found a new haven for laundering money: China. The country's well-developed underground financial networks have caught the attention of foreign criminals who are using China to clean their dirty money and pump it back into the global financial system  largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement, an Associated Press investigation has found.

As China globalized, sending people and money abroad, so too did its criminal economy. Gangs from Israel and Spain, cannabis dealers from North Africa and cartels from Mexico and Colombia have laundered billions in China and Hong Kong, slipping their ill-gotten gains into the great tides of legitimate trade and finance that wash through the region, according to police officials, European and U.S. court records and intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

Gilbert Chikli, a convicted French-Israeli con man, understands China's allure. He is widely credited with devising a scam so successful that it has inspired a generation of copycats. Called the fake CEO, fake president or business email compromise scam, the fraud has cost thousands of companies, many of them American, $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI.

Gilbert Chikli, 50, and his wife Shirly Chikli, 31, pose for a photo at their home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

"China has become a universal passageway for all these scams," said Chikli. "Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."

China's central bank and police refused repeated requests for comment. In a regular briefing with reporters Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said "is not, has not been, nor will be in the future a center of global money laundering."

Chikli made millions by impersonating top executives and intelligence agents and convincing employees at some of the world's largest companies to transfer money to his bank accounts, according to French legal documents. He told the AP he laundered 90 percent of that stolen money through China and Hong Kong.

"It's immense," he said in an interview at his sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port town on the Mediterranean.

A French court convicted Chikli last year of defrauding five companies of 6.1 million euros  La Banque Postale, LCL bank, HSBC, Accenture and Thomson, a French technology company. He was also convicted of attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others, including Barclays, American Express and the company that runs Disneyland Paris. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison and fined 1 million euros.

Today he remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel, where authorities refused to comment on his case. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in some cases.

Chikli told the AP his preferred method for laundering money was import-export schemes. He would bounce stolen funds to front companies in Hong Kong, then have the cash withdrawn and used to buy merchandise in China. He'd purchase, say, 20 tons of steel, but bribe the vendor to give him a receipt for 100 tons. Then he'd sell the goods and send the money to Israel, where the false invoices made the entire sum look like legitimate trading profit.

"Give me the documents and everything is fine," he said.

Such trade-based money laundering is a growing concern to U.S. authorities. Three Colombians based in Guangzhou, China, led a global money-laundering network that moved over $5 billion for Spanish and Mexican drug cartels, according to a U.S. Justice Department indictment unsealed in September. The network allegedly spanned the United States, Colombia, Spain, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Like Chikli, they processed illegal profits through bank accounts in Hong Kong and China and cleaned the money by buying merchandise, often counterfeit, which they shipped and sold in Colombia and elsewhere, according to the indictment.

Chikli insists he no longer runs fake CEO scams, but a new generation of fraudsters is copying his technique. Like Chikli, they direct stolen funds to China and Hong Kong. The FBI traced fake CEO scam transfers to more than 70 different countries. "At the very top of that list is Hong Kong and China," Jay Bienkowski, a supervisory special agent with the FBI in Washington, said in an interview with the AP prior to his retirement.

Police believe some of the networks now running fake CEO scams are collaborating with Chinese migrants in Europe to launder money, using a version of the ancient Chinese value transfer system called fei qian (FAY ch'ien), or flying money. In June, French police busted a similar operation in a Chinese wholesale district just north of Paris, where merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers.

"Non-Chinese criminal groups committing CEO frauds are sending money to China because Chinese criminal groups in Europe are giving them cash," said Igor Angelini, head of financial intelligence at Europol, the European Union law enforcement agency. "The scale of this phenomenon is quite substantial." Chinese authorities generally have done little to help Western companies targeted in fake CEO scams, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.

The U.S. State Department, in a report this month, reproached China for lackluster performance on money-laundering investigations. "U.S. law enforcement agencies note China has not cooperated sufficiently," the report said.

Europol also has no cooperation agreement with China. Once funds land there, they vanish.

"For us it's a blind spot," said Angelini. "What happens after that is a black hole."

___

Associated Press writers Eric Tucker in Washington, Josef Federman in Jerusalem, Angela Charlton, Nicolas Vaux-Montagny, and Philippe Sotto in Paris, and AP researcher Fu Ting in Shanghai contributed to this story.

Follow on Twitter:

Kinetz - http://twitter.com/ekinetz

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Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli gestures during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli is widely credited with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president, fake CEO or business email compromise scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, the house belonging to convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is seen in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. A French court convicted Chikli of defrauding five companies of 6.1 million euros and attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others. He was sentenced to seven years in absentia and fined 1 million euros. Chikli remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in the past. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli smiles during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli realized the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise. He said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, uses his phone at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted con man Gilbert Chikli clasps his hands during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli is widely credited with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president, fake CEO or business email compromise scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, poses for a photo at his home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

Gilbert Chikli, 50, and his wife Shirly Chikli, 31, pose for a photo at their home in Ashdod, Israel, Monday, March 28, 2016. Chikli, a visionary fraudster, ripped off some of the world's biggest corporations, and then laundered millions in China, which is serving as a massive money laundering machine for foreign criminals, an AP investigation has found. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, convicted conman Gilbert Chikli pauses during an interview with the Associated Press at his house in the port city of Ashdod, Israel. Chikli realized the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise. He said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

FILE - In this May 12, 2015, file photo, visitors walk near Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland Paris, in Marne la Vallee, France. A French court convicted con man Gilbert Chikli of attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 companies, including Barclays, American Express and the company that runs Disneyland Paris. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison and fined 1 million euros. Chikli remains a wanted man, but lives openly in Israel. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in the past.(AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. Chinese characters on the banner read "China Commerce City". France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, photo, people walk in a Chinese wholesale clothing district in Aubervilliers, north of Paris, France. France's financial crimes squad in June busted a money transfer network in Aubervilliers, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers. Sign in Chinese reads "China Europe Trade and Commerce City". (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016, photo, Chinese paramilitary policemen march outside the Bank of China headquarters in Beijing, China. Convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is credited with masterminding a fraud that has cost major multinational companies $1.8 billion in just over two years. Chikli said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016, photo, Chinese men sit outside the Bank of China headquarters in Beijing, China. Convicted con man Gilbert Chikli is credited with masterminding a fraud that has cost major multinational companies $1.8 billion in just over two years. Chikli said he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

In this Wednesday, March 2, 2016, photo, people are reflected on a glass case displaying a poster featuring a 100 dollar Hong Kong colonial bank note in Hong Kong. China and Hong Kong are emerging as a global hub for money laundering, with criminals from around the world slipping their dirty money into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance, taking advantage of entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

In this Wednesday, March 2, 2016, photo, two men are silhouetted as they cross the street in Central, a business district of Hong Kong. China and Hong Kong are emerging as a global hub for money laundering, with criminals from around the world slipping their dirty money into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance, taking advantage of entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)
Fake CEO scammer is 'seduction machine,' director says

PARIS (AP)  The man who nearly stole over 70 million euros from France's business and banking elite is a serial manipulator who sees fraud not as a crime but as a way of life, according to those behind a new film based on the con artist's exploits.

"Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm's CEO or a French intelligence agent. Those behind the film, which was released in France on Dec. 30, describe Chikli as a chameleon of a man, a brazen charmer whose boasts suggest he has yet to abandon his criminal career.

"Chikli is an unstoppable seduction machine," said director Pascal Elbe in a recent interview in Paris. "For him it's a job, it's definitely not a con."

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, con man Gilbert Chikli speaks during an interview with the Associated Press at his home in the Port city of Ashdod, Israel. The French movie "Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli con man Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm"s CEO or a French intelligence agent. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)

Chikli's heists were astounding in their daring. With a little background research and a well-placed phone call, Chikli could cajole or bluster his way into organizing the transfer of several hundred thousand, a million or even millions of euros to bank accounts in Dubai, Russia, China or Hong Kong.

His victims put down the phone convinced they were speaking to their boss or to a genuine French spy. One spoke of being taken in by a man with "an extremely powerful tone of voice and self-assurance." Two more were convinced  somehow  to withdraw cash and hand-deliver it to bars in Paris. When tricks or charm didn't work, Chikli turned to bullying; another employee was threatened with losing her job if she didn't immediately organize the transfer of nearly $2 million to the U.K.

"He adapts to his interlocutor, that's what's crazy," Elbe said. "He improvises. He reacts. He riffs off what you're saying and gives you back what you want to hear."

The idea for the film came from producer Isaac Sharry, who bought the rights to Chikli's story when he was still in French custody and visited him in Israel shortly after Chikli jumped bail. Chikli remains a wanted man in France, but today lives openly in Ashdod, a port town south of Tel Aviv. Israeli authorities refused to explain why Chikli is able to live freely in Israel.

Sharry said he wanted to speak to Chikli in depth to ask how "bankers who make thousands of euros and went to fancy schools let themselves be hoodwinked by a simple guy on the phone?"

The producer amassed 10 cassettes worth of tape which became the basis for a screenplay. Elbe was tapped as filmmaker and actor Vincent Elbaz was brought in to play the Chikli-like con artist at the center of the film. All three spent significant periods of time with the fraudster, trying to draw out the secrets of his trade and unwrap the mystery of his character.

Elbaz said he found it difficult to get access to the man behind the con.

"He adapts constantly his behavior to the other. It's constantly a lie," he said.

Whether Chikli has mended his ways is open to question. At one point, Elbaz said Chikli announced that there would be a sequel.

Elbaz said he warned Chikli off the idea. "The film is super and all but you have to sell millions and millions of tickets for it to be a sequel," he said.

Elbaz said Chikli replied: "No. We're going to do a sequel not because the film is going to be a success, but because of what I'm going to do next."

Contacted later by The Associated Press, Chikli denied the exchange ever took place.

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Associated Press reporter Tia Goldenberg in Jerusalem contributed to this report.

In this Friday, Dec 4, 2015, photo, French director Pascal Elbe, left, and French actor Vincent Elbaz, right, attend a promotion for their movie "Je Compte sur Vous" in Paris, France. "Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli con man Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm's CEO or a French intelligence agent. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Friday, Dec 4, 2015, photo, French director Pascal Elbe talks on his phone during a promotional event for his movie "Je Compte sur Vous" in Paris, France. "Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli con man Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm's CEO or a French intelligence agent. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Friday, Dec 4, 2015, photo, French actor Vincent Elbaz attends a promotional event for the movie "Je Compte sur Vous" in Paris, France. "Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli con man Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm's CEO or a French intelligence agent. (AP Photo/Jacques Brinon)

In this Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, photo, con man Gilbert Chikli stands near the pool of his home during an interview with the Associated Press in the Port city of Ashdod, Israel. The French movie "Je Compte sur Vous"  released in English as "Thank You for Calling"  is based on the exploits of the French-Israeli con man Gilbert Chikli, who engineered rogue payments by phoning companies and pretending to be the firm's CEO or a French intelligence agent. (AP Photo/Tsafrir Abayov)
PICTURED: Editor selections from the past week in Asia

In glimpses of life around Asia last week, Hindus celebrated the Holi festival, which marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. People celebrated by smearing each other's faces with brightly hued powder, throwing water balloons and spraying colored water.

Thousands of Muslims rallied in Bangladesh's capital to denounce a court petition seeking to remove Islam as the country's official state religion. More than 90 percent of Bangladesh's 160 million people are Muslim, and Hindus and Buddhists are the main religious minorities. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina brought back secularism as a pillar of the constitution in 2011, but retained Islam as the state religion.

Malaysian police detained 15 suspected Islamic State members, who police say planned to launch attacks and tried to obtain chemicals to make bombs. The arrests followed the bombings by Islamic militants in Brussels.

In this Wednesday, March 23, 2016, file photo, a Bangladeshi woman shuts her eyes as colored powder is smeared on her face during celebrations marking Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The festival of colors, by painting each other in bright pigments, distributing sweets and squirting water at one another. The holiday celebrated mainly in India and Nepal marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. (AP Photo/A.M. Ahad, File)

In Singapore, a remembrance ceremony was held to mark the anniversary of the death of founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Lee, who was Singapore's prime minister for more than three decades until 1990, died last March at the age of 91.

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This gallery was curated by Associated Press photo editor Karly Domb Sadoff in Bangkok.

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016, file photo, an Indian reveler, face smeared with colored powder, dances during celebrations marking Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, in Gauhati, India. The festival celebrates the arrival of spring. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath, File)

In this Wednesday, March 23, 2016, file photo, Indian Hindus smeared in in colors pray during Holi celebrations at Lord Jagannath temple in Ahmadabad, India. The holiday, celebrated mainly in India and Nepal, marks the beginning of spring and the triumph of good over evil. (AP Photo/Ajit Solanki, File)

In this Thursday, March 24, 2016, file photo, a man walks beneath rows of parasols at a public park in Beijing. Visitors have been coming to parks in China's capital city in increasing numbers as flowers and trees are beginning to bloom in an annual rite of spring. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

In this Wednesday, March 23, 2016, file photo, a stalk of Orchids is placed on the seat belonging to the late Lee Kuan Yew at the former Parliament House during a remembrance ceremony held to mark the first death anniversary of Singapore's founding Prime Minister Lee in Singapore. A year ago, Singapore mourned the death of its founding father Lee Kuan Yew who died at the age of 91. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E, File)

In this Sunday, March 20, 2016, file photo, Roman Catholic devotees wave palm fronds to be blessed by a priest to commemorate Palm Sunday which marks the beginning of Holy Week at the Redemptorist Church in Baclaran, south of Manila, Philippines. Palm Sunday, which is the final week of Lent, marks the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem. The palm fronds end up in homes of devotees for a year, to be burned after and its ashes to be used for Ash Wednesday for next Season of Lent. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez, File)

In this Friday, March 25, 2016, file photo, Bangladeshi activists of various Islamic political groups and other Muslims shout slogans after Friday prayers during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Thousands of Muslim devotees have rallied in Bangladesh's capital to denounce a court petition seeking to remove Islam as state religion in the Muslim-majority South Asian nation which is ruled by secular laws. (AP Photo/A.M. Ahad, File)

In this Tuesday, March 22, 2016, file photo, a man tries to douse a fire at Mingalar market in Mandalay, Myanmar. Firefighters from all over Mandalay gather to douse a fire and rescue people who were stuck in one of the biggest markets in Mandalay. (AP Photo/Hkun Lat)

In this Friday, March 25, 2016, file photo, people enjoy a view of high rise buildings at Shinjuku shopping and entertainment district in in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Koji Sasahara, File)

In this Monday, March 21, 2016, file photo, Chinese People's Liberation Army soldier adjusts a hat of a member of an honor guard as they prepare for a welcome ceremony for visiting German President Joachim Gauck, outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. (AP Photo/Andy Wong, File)

In this Friday, March 25, 2016, file photo, Malaysia's police stand in formation after one fainted due to hot weather on the Police Day in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Malaysian police have detained 15 more suspected Islamic State members, who police say planned to launch attacks and tried to obtain chemicals to make bombs, National police chief said in a statement Thursday. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian, File)
Pakistan PM vows to fight terror after 70 died in Lahore

LAHORE, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistan's prime minister on Monday vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the massive suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter the previous day in the eastern city of Lahore, killing 70 people.

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a months-long government offensive against them and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians. A breakaway Taliban faction, which publicly supports the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, in the capital of Islamabad, extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings in the city center. The demonstrators set cars on fire, demanding that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The army, which was deployed Sunday to contain the rioters, remained out on the streets.

Women try to comfort a mother who lost her son in bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

The military reported raids in eastern Punjab province, where several deadly militant organizations are headquartered, and said dozens were arrested. Also Monday, Pakistan started observing a three-day mourning period declared after the Lahore attack.

The Lahore bombing took place in a park that was crowded with families, with many women and children among the victims. At least 300 people were wounded in the bombing.

Even though a breakaway Taliban group, known as Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said it specifically targeted Pakistan's Christian community, most of those killed in Lahore were Muslims, who were also gathered in the park for the Sunday weekend holiday. The park is a popular spot in the heart of Lahore.

Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. Another 12 bodies have not yet been identified, he said.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told The Associated Press late Sunday that along with striking Christians celebrating Easter, the attack also meant to protest Pakistan's military operation in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian Church in Lahore last year.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women.

Sharif had earlier this month officially recognized holidays celebrated by the country's minority religions, the Hindu festival of Holi and the Christian holiday of Easter.

After a meeting with his security officials Monday, the prime minister called the perpetrators of the Lahore attack "cowards" and vowed to defeat the "extremist mindset." Sharif also cancelled a planned trip to Great Britain.

In Lahore, dozens of families were bidding final farewell to their slain kin during funeral ceremonies Monday.

Shama Pervez, widowed mother of 11-year-old Sahil Pervez who died in the blast, was inconsolable during funeral prayers. Her son, a fifth grader at a local Catholic school, had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

On the outskirts of Lahore, in the Christian area of Youhanabad, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children," said Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of the victims in Sunday's bombing.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed Sunday in the park, all Muslims. His 10 year-old nephew Fahad Ali lay in a a bed in is home, his battered body almost completely damaged. He had lost his parents and a sister, another two sisters were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything, to continue at school," he cried.

Forensic experts sifted through the debris in the park. The suicide bomb had been a crude devise loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the bodies of its victims to cause maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, saying he was known as a militant recruiter.

Malala Yousafzai, a young Nobel Peace Laureate and champion of girls' education  herself a survivor of a horrific Taliban shooting  said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Lahore bombing, saying that in targeting a park filled with children, the attack "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" to the authorities and the people of Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

Analyst and prominent author of books on militants in Pakistan, Zahid Hussain, said Sunday's violence was a coordinated show of strength by the country's religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

The military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has seen over 3,000 militants killed, according to the army. In December 2014 , the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in northwestern city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Hussain said the government has been sending mixed signals to Islamic extremists  on the one hand allowing banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches, while on the other hanging convicts like Qadri and promising to tackle honor killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," says Hussain. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say 'no' to extremism once and for all."

Army chief Gen. Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage non-humans to over run our life and liberty."

The local Punjab government announced it will give roughly $3,000 compensation to the seriously wounded and $1,500 to those with minor injuries from Sunday's bombing.

In Islamabad, extremists had marched into the city on Sunday in protest of the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. Qadri was convicted for the 2011 murder of governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had also criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them.

They rallied anew Monday, demanding that the Christian woman also be hanged and that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

The army deployed Pakistan paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

In Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, the Press Club was ransacked by pro-Qadri supporters on Sunday. Several Pakistani journalists were roughed up and some equipment was damaged. Extremists were regrouping in Karachi ahead of rallies Monday in the country's financial center.

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Gannon reported from Islamabad. Associated Press Writers Asif Shahzad and Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Asim Tanveer in Multan, Pakistan, also contributed to this report.

People carry the coffin of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Eric John, bottom, who survived Sunday's attack, cries during the funeral of his cousin killed, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Pakistani Christian women mourn during the funeral service of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a suicide bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn the death of Sharmoon who was killed in a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

A Pakistani Christian mother looks at her son as she hold her daughter during his funeral in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn during the funeral service of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani Christian family mourn the death of Sharmoon who was killed in a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Women mourn the death of a Christian boy who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

People prepare to burry the body of Christian man killed in bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani Christian mother holds her injured child who survived Sunday's bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani police commandos and security personnel cordon off the area of last night's bombing at an amusement park in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn the deaths of their family members during a funeral service at a local church in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani injured man from a bomb blast talks on his cell phone at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (AP Photo/K.M. Chuadary)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek hold sit-in protest outside the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Pakistani police officers stand guard at the site of a bomb blast in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (AP Photo/K.M. Chuadary)

A Pakistani man walks past a burning truck set on fire by supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek during a march toward the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek hold sit-in protest outside the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek chant slogans during a sit-in protest near the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer, Muhammad Nasim, said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

The grandmother of Pakistani Christian boy Sahil Pervez, mourns his death, at a church in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani man, seen through shattered glass, looks at damages of a bus station after a march of supporters of a religious group towards the Parliament building turned violent in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

A cameraman films damages of a bus station after a march of supporters of a religious group towards the Parliament building turned violent in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Pakistani police officers stand guard on a road leading to the Parliament building, where supporters of a religious group are holding a sit-in, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)
Pioneering winemaker finds early success in Myanmar hills

AYTHAYA, Myanmar (AP)  When a democratically elected Myanmar president takes office this week after decades of military rule, some will be toasting the historic moment with a beverage decidedly not paired with this tropical, Southeast Asian nation: surprisingly high-quality, locally produced wine.

They might pour themselves an Aythaya Sauvignon blanc ("internationally competitive," says one wine critic), a Shiraz-based red ("marvelous improvement over initial vintages") or start off with a refreshing sparkling rose.

These all stem from Myanmar's first winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism, which together create more demand than he can currently satisfy. He doesn't even have enough left over for export.

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, a worker collects grapes in a plastic bin at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Gutsy German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach started Myanmars first winery and now is harvesting the rewards. Consumption is set to soar with the growth of the countrys middle class. His next game plan: to root a wine culture in the tropical, Southeast Asian nation, and make the best white wine in Asia. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

Morsbach's Aythaya estate could be mistaken for a corner of Provence or California's wine country, in a verdant valley tucked into the Shan Hills of northeastern Myanmar, and at 1,300 meters (4,260 feet) probably the highest vineyard in Asia. Visitors, including a number of young Burmese, sample its wines at his restaurant with panoramic sunset views over the gently undulating vineyard.

The harvests haven't come easily. A genial onetime mining engineer, Morsbach was among just a handful of individual foreign businessmen in the 1990s operating in a largely isolated country where a xenophobic military regime made the rules. One minister, he says, simply appropriated an earlier venture. And Morsbach had no experience in winemaking, never mind doing it under tropical conditions.

"It was full of obstacles, adverse conditions, but it was a chance to do something new. That was the challenge and it had a reasonable chance of success," says the 78-year-old Morsbach, whose resume includes building factories in the United States, advising the Laos government and introducing sailboarding to Asia.

In the first year of full production, 2004, the estate managed just 20,000 bottles. This has soared to as many as 200,000 bottles in recent years, and Morsbach says he is about to open another plant with a 1-million-bottle capacity. He needs far more grapes than those grown on contract by 30 families and his current harvest from the 8-hectare (20-acre) Aythaya vineyard.

Wine consumption in Myanmar is minuscule, so, Morsbach exults, the potential in the country of 52 million is immense.

"We are still working on our first glass," says Hans-Eduard Leiendecker, Ayuthaya's head winemaker, referring to statistics showing that Burmese, per capita, drink just one-tenth of a glass of wine per year. Compare that to eight bottles of wine per year for Americans, 18 for Germans and 35 for the French.

Leiendecker grew up on a family vineyard in Germany's Moselle region and spent 24 years in the European wine business. Like Morsbach, he was looking for a new challenge and took a big pay cut to come to Myanmar.

"Today, there is still no real wine culture in Myanmar. It needs one generation. It takes time," he says. "Some Burmese still drink wine like it was a soft drink, finding themselves under the table in 15 minutes."

Nonetheless, sophistication is slowly bubbling up among Aythaya's prime customers: the expanding middle class. "If you want to show that you have arrived in society, you sit in a restaurant with a glass of wine in your hand, not beer," Morsbach says.

The winemakers are also hopeful that wine and democracy will prove a good marriage, further spurring their enterprise.

Once the right contacts were made and the bureaucratic barriers breached, they say operating a 70-year-lease under the military regime has actually proved satisfactory. But Leienecker says reforms are still needed since foreign businesses face onerous restrictions, including an inability to secure loans if, like Morsbach's enterprise, they are 100 percent foreign-owned.

"We should hope that the new government will bring in international standards of doing business," Leienecker says of the April 1 regime change to a government led by democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The main challenge ahead is to shore up enough profits to allow for the investment needed to turn out truly outstanding "new latitude wines," those vintages coming from non-traditional wine-producing countries like Brazil, India and Thailand where the grape is not a native plant.

Aythaya found only seven of the more than 50 classical grape varieties able to adapt to the tropics, where daylight is shorter and the fungus-bearing rains are longer and more intense than in wine-producing Mediterranean climates.

Morsbach says they've successfully wrestled with such problems and conditions are otherwise excellent, especially for white wines. Some critics agree, with R. James Mullen, veteran wine writer for Thailand's The Nation newspaper, saying the sauvignon blanc "would hold up to almost any on the international market."

"I am convinced that one day Myanmar can make the best wine in Asia," Morsbach says. "It's my karma."

In this Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016 photo, German winemaker Hans-Eduard Leiendecker, left and Bert Morsbach, right owner of Aythaya wine estate walk through the vines in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism that demand more wine than he can currently offer. He doesnt even have enough left over for export. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, a worker harvests grapes at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism that demand more wine than he can currently offer. He doesnt even have enough left over for export. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, a worker harvests grapes at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Gutsy German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach started Myanmars first winery and now is harvesting the rewards. Consumption is set to soar with the growth of the countrys middle class. His next game plan: to root a wine culture in the tropical, Southeast Asian nation, and make the best white wine in Asia. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, a worker harvests grapes at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism that demand more wine than he can currently offer. He doesnt even have enough left over for export. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, workers load harvested grapes in a plastic bin to back of a small truck in Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism that demand more wine than he can currently offer. He doesnt even have enough left over for export. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Monday, Feb. 1, 2016 photo, 21-year old Aye Khine uses a bamboo clap to scare birds at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, employs about 20-workers daily to maintain the vines.(AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016 photo, workers walk through the Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Gutsy German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach started Myanmars first winery and now is harvesting the rewards. Consumption is set to soar with the growth of the countrys middle class. His next game plan: to root a wine culture in the tropical, Southeast Asian nation, and make the best white wine in Asia.(AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Tuesday, Feb.2, 2016 photo, a view of the vines, background and wine tasting area for visitors at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, employs about 20-workers daily to maintain the vines. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Monday, Feb. 1, 2016 photo, Sithu, left, a domestic traveler from Yangon tastes wine at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach who overcame both political minefields and viticulturally virgin terrain to find himself catering to a growing middle class and booming tourism that demand more wine than he can currently offer. He doesnt even have enough left over for export. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Saturday, March 12, 2016 photo, a worker feeds harvested grapes to a processor at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur Bert Morsbach, employs about 20-workers daily to maintain the vines. (AP Photo/Esther Htusan)

In this Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2016 photo, workers label wine bottles at Aythaya wine estate in Aythaya, near Taunggyi, the capital of northeastern Shan state, Myanmar. Myanmars first ever winery, a pioneering effort by German entrepreneur, employs about 20-workers daily to maintain the vines.(AP Photo/Esther Htusan)
Chicago mayor names interim top cop with eye on challenges

CHICAGO (AP)  Eddie Johnson didn't apply to become Chicago's police chief, but his appointment as interim superintendent in line for the top job could address many of the issues facing Mayor Rahm Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal.

After firing the previous superintendent over the shooting, Emanuel has searched for a replacement during a spike in violent crime, low department morale and intensified scrutiny of police shootings  in particular the death of Laquan McDonald, a black teen shot 16 times by a white officer. Bypassing three finalists recommended by the police board, the mayor chose an insider who will face immediate pressure to bring about change within a force he's been part of for 27 years.

Johnson was named interim chief Monday and Emanuel has asked him to apply for the permanent job. He will take over a department criticized for lax accountability on police misconduct and a "code of silence" culture that protects problem officers.

Eddie Johnson speaks to the media after Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that he was appointing him the interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department at CPD Headquarters in Chicago on Monday, March 28, 2016. Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal. (AP Photo/Teresa Crawford)

A former commander on the South Side, Johnson is black and a Chicago native, satisfying concerns from some aldermen after two consecutive white superintendents came from outside Chicago. Former colleagues credit Johnson with the ability to unify officers.

Johnson said his focus would be rebuilding trust.

"Trust between the police and the people we serve. Trust between the rank and file and the command staff. Trust between police and elected officials and community leaders. And trust among police officers," he said. "I know the first trust has been broken too often."

Johnson grew up in the rough Cabrini Green housing project until age 9, when his family moved to a South Side neighborhood where he still resides. He joined the Chicago Police Department in 1988 and held supervisory roles including chief of patrol, where he commanded 8,000 officers.

Emanuel said Johnson would both have officers' backs and hold them accountable.

"He has the command, the character and the capability to lead the department at this critical juncture," the mayor said.

The black and Latino caucuses of the City Council said they were pleased with Johnson's selection, but some community leaders criticized Emanuel for sidestepping the finalists.

The Revs. Jesse Jackson and Ira Acree said the mayor's actions undermined the police board. Emanuel has also been criticized over the McDonald case, accused of a cover-up for releasing police video of the shooting the video only after a judge ordered it.

"You would think that in the aftermath of the Laquan McDonald police scandal, that Mayor Emanuel would have learned his lesson and honored his pledge of giving Chicago ultimate transparency in the pursuit of rebuilding public trust," Acree said.

Jackson said the Police Department's culture needs changing and the way an insider was chosen "complicates and compounds the crisis."

Emanuel, criticized during his five years in office for not always listening to the public, defended his approach as the result of spending months gathering community input. Johnson said he was best equipped to make changes, and welcomed outside help, including a pending investigation by the U.S. Justice Department.

"Because I'm an insider I can fix things from the inside out as opposed to coming from the outside and having to fix it from the outside in," he said.

Retired officer Bruce Rottner, who worked with Johnson when an off-duty officer was fatally shot in 2010, said Johnson was calm, knowledgeable and had officers' respect. However he said it will hard to change the "code of silence."

"Can he have an impact on that wall of silence? ... To some degree he can, but just to some degree," he said.

The black and Latino caucuses had called on Emanuel to seek a minority and someone from within the department. The Black Caucus stopped short of endorsing Eugene Williams, a black deputy chief in Chicago who was a finalist.

Caucus chairman Alderman Roderick Sawyer said he didn't lobby exclusively for Johnson, but believed the selection signified that Emanuel heard their concerns. "I believe he thought the qualities (we wanted) made sense, and maybe he picked somebody who fit those qualities," he said.

Latino Caucus members had been upset that interim Superintendent John Escalante, who was named to the post after Garry McCarthy was fired and applied for the permanent post, wasn't a finalist.

Fraternal Order of Police President Dean Angelo said the union hoped Escalante or Williams would become superintendent, but he welcomed Johnson's appointment.

"The last thing the rank-and-file wanted to see was another outsider coming in and running the department," Angelo said, adding it's unlikely he and Johnson will completely agree. "But I do believe we will be able to work together and that morale-wise, having someone from within our ranks will be positive."

A city ordinance allows Emanuel to appoint an interim chief and ask the board for new finalists. Police Board President Lori Lightfoot said it would convene as soon as possible to "decide appropriate next steps."

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Associated Press writer Carla K. Johnson contributed to this report.

Eddie Johnson speaks to the media after Mayor Rahm Emanuel, right, announced that he was appointing him the interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department at CPD Headquarters in Chicago on Monday, March 28, 2016. Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal. (AP Photo/Teresa Crawford)

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announces that he is appointing Eddie Johnson the interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department at CPD Headquarters in Chicago on Monday, March 28, 2016. Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal. (AP Photo/Teresa Crawford)

Eddie Johnson listens to Mayor Rahm Emanuel as he was appointed as the interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department at CPD Headquarters in Chicago on Monday, March 28, 2016. Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal. (Ashlee Rezin/Chicago Sun-Times via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT

Mayor Rahm Emanuel, right, announces that he is appointing Eddie Johnson, the current Chief of Patrol, as the interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department at CPD Headquarters in Chicago on Monday, March 28, 2016. Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal. (Ashlee Rezin/Chicago Sun-Times via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT, MAGS OUT, NO SALES; CHICAGO TRIBUNE OUT
Trump ready to visit Wisconsin, but Cruz has head-start

ALTOONA, Wis. (AP)  Donald Trump is planning to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin on Tuesday, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable GOP race.

But rival Ted Cruz has gotten a head-start on the contest, racking up influential endorsements, campaigning in key regions and supported by bullish advertising campaign.

A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would narrow Trump's path to the nomination, heap pressure on the billionaire to sweep the remaining winner-take-all primaries this spring, and increase the chances of a contested party convention in July.

File-In this March 19, 2016, file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in Tucson, Ariz. Trump is planning Tuesday to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable GOP race. But rival Ted Cruz has gotten a jumpstart on the contest, racking up influential endorsements, campaigning in key regions and supported by bullish advertising campaign. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

"The results in Wisconsin will impact significantly the primaries to come," Cruz told The Associated Press after a rally in Oshkosh Friday. "Wisconsin, I believe, will play a critical role continuing to unify Republicans behind our campaign. The only way to beat Donald Trump is with unity."

Cruz is positioning himself to win Wisconsin, next Tuesday's only contest, and the first primary since he began collecting the backing of establishment Republicans, such as former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, adamant about eliminating Trump.

As Cruz campaigned across the state ahead of the Easter holiday, he was following a winning roadmap drawn by Wisconsin governor  and former 2016 presidential hopeful  Scott Walker in 2010, up Wisconsin's rural and working-class midsection the same demographic that has driven Trump's success thus far.

Cruz has mined the GOP vote-rich swath of farms and factories from south-central Wisconsin, up the Fox River Valley's corridor of paper mills, small towns  among them, some of the most swing-prone counties in the country.

The Fox River Valley, suburban Milwaukee and the rural counties outside Madison are home to 75 percent of Wisconsin's most reliable Republican primary voters, said Keith Gilkes, a veteran Walker adviser who worked for his 2010 GOP primary campaign.

"How Gov. Walker won was basically by winning the lower Fox Valley down through the Southeast," Gilkes said. "That's the holy grail demographically for the Republican Party in Wisconsin."

Ohio Gov. John Kasich, in Wisconsin Monday, avoided any mention of his GOP opponents and instead, painting himself as the only candidate who can defeat Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton in the general election. Polls show Kasich trailing both Trump and Cruz in Wisconsin and he trails them in delegates so far.

Trump, by contrast, has slightly fewer than half of the Republican delegates allocated in races past, short of the majority needed to clinch the nomination before the party's national convention this summer. Cruz has more than a third of the delegates, but is focused equally on stopping Trump and uniting most of the party against him.

If Cruz wins most of the 42 delegates  which, in Wisconsin, are allocated on the basis of state and congressional district winners  then the remaining winner-take-all contests, in Delaware, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey and North Dakota could determine the future of this competition. A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would likely require Trump to win those five contests to avoid clawing for the nomination at the party's national convention in Cleveland.

With that in mind, Cruz touted his plans to improve the economy during a stop at the Altoona Family Restaurant in western Wisconsin Monday, where hundreds of his supporters spilled out the doors to hear him speak.

Cruz said his "number one priority" as president would be jobs and economic growth, a shift in emphasis from earlier primary states. While promising to create millions of jobs and increase wages, Cruz pivoted to attack Trump on the issue.

"Donald Trump's problem is he has no idea how to bring jobs back to America," he told reporters before heading into the restaurant. "He has no policy solutions to get that done."

Cruz rebuked Trump's criticism of his wife, Heidi Cruz, a detour from policy to personal that received sharp condemnation from some voters.

Truda Swanson of Appleton, an undecided Republican primary voter, said Trump's personal criticism of Cruz's wife in the lead-up to the primary reinforced her opposition to Trump.

"It's absolutely not why I'm against Trump. I'm against Trump for lots of things leading up to this, including his treatment of women," the 40-year-old health care worker said.

It reinforced warning signs for Trump in Wisconsin, who led in a February poll by Marquette University's Law School, but is now viewed unfavorably by 45 percent of Wisconsin Republicans, according to the same poll.

Cruz's campaign was airing about $500,000 in advertising over the final two weeks before the primary. Trump, by contrast, just started advertising in the state, reserving about $420,000 in radio and television ads slated to run through the April 5 primary, according to political advertising tracker Kantar Media.

"Ted Cruz has a real opportunity to win the state, in a way that would be pretty resounding," said Mark Graul, an unaffiliated Republican strategist from Green Bay.

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Beaumont reported from Oshkosh, Wis. Associated Press writer Chad Day in Washington and Todd Richmond in La Crosse, Wis. Contributed to this report.

File-This March 24, 2016, file photo shows Republican Presidential candidate U.S. Senator Ted Cruz making a stop at the Armory restaurant in downtown Janesville, Wis. Donald Trump is planning Tuesday to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable GOP race. But rival Cruz has gotten a jumpstart on the contest, racking up influential endorsements, campaigning in key regions and supported by bullish advertising campaign. (Anthony Wahl/The Janesville Gazette via AP)

Republican presidential candidate, Ohio Gov. John Kasich, conducts a town hall meeting at the River Steel plant, Monday, March 28, 2016, in West Salem, Wis. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
The Food And Drug Administration (FDA) has delayed the introduction of mandatory calorie labels on menus across the US for the second time.

The rules, passed as part of the health care overhaul in 2010, will not be enforced until 2017, the agency said.

They will eventually require restaurants and other establishments that sell prepared foods and have 20 or more locations to post the calorie content of food 'clearly and conspicuously' on their menus, menu boards and displays.

The years of delays have come as supermarkets, convenience stores and other retailers that never wanted to be part of the law have fiercely lobbied against it.

The Food And Drug Administration (FDA) has delayed the introduction of mandatory calorie labels on menus for the second time. Some locations already display calorie counts, including McDonald's (file picture)

The delay will leave the final step to a new President, despite the Obama administration's support of menu labeling and other food-related policies.

The final rules were released in 2014, after the FDA said it had struggled to balance the concerns of retailers with the law.

Restaurants and other retailers originally had until the end of 2015 to comply. Last summer, the FDA pushed that deadline back to the end of 2016. This month, the agency pushed the deadline back again.

Pizza chains like Domino's have also opposed the rules, saying they don't make sense for companies that take most of their orders online or over the phone.

Grocery stores and convenience stores have said the rules would be more burdensome for them than they would be for restaurants, which typically have more limited offerings.

Margo Wootan, a lobbyist at the Center for Science and the Public Interest, says displaying calorie counts is 'simple and straightforward' and has been done elsewhere.

Menu labeling is already required in a handful of places, including Vermont, New York City and Montgomery County, Maryland.

But several other states put off their laws in anticipation of the federal rules.

California passed a law in 2008 but put it on hold after the federal standards became law in 2010. Today, menu labeling still isn't enforced there.

'We are very frustrated,' says Harold Goldstein of the California Center for Public Health Advocacy. 'We call on the federal government to issue its regulations immediately and allow both state and federal law to go into effect.'

The latest delay came after Congress allowed the FDA to put off the December 2016 date until a year after it publishes the final guidance for retailers.

This month, the agency said it is still working on those guidelines.

'The FDA cannot speculate on the timing on when final guidance will be issued,' said spokeswoman Lauren Kotwicki.

Panera also displays calorie counts for its items (file picture). The rules will not be enforced until 2017 as the FDA says it is still working on guidelines for retailers who will have to comply with them

Retailers have said compliance takes time. Robert Rosado of the Food Marketing Institute, an association that represents grocery stores, said the delays only seem fair as the rules are complicated.

'The anxiety is that they're going to get it wrong,' Rosado said of the retailers. 'Maybe the font size isn't right for their label or they rounded the calorie count the wrong way.'

A legislation passed in the House earlier this year could make it easier for some businesses to comply with the rules.

It would narrow labeling requirements for supermarkets by allowing stores to use a menu or menu board in a prepared foods area instead of putting labels on individual items.

It would also allow restaurants like pizza chains that receive most of their orders remotely to post calories online instead of at the retail location.

The bill also seeks to ensure that establishments are not punished for mislabeling due to inadvertent human error.

The House bill passed in February with some Democratic support but the Senate has yet to move on the issue. The Food Marketing Institute, pizza companies and other groups that have pushed against the rules are working to gather more support.
US museum returns 10th century Khmer statue to Cambodia

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP)  Cambodia on Monday welcomed home a 10th-century Khmer statue that was looted during the country's civil war before spending the past three decades at an American museum.

The sandstone Torso of Rama statue, which stands 62 inches (157 centimeters) high and is missing its head, arms and feet, was formally handed over at a ceremony in Phnom Penh attended by government officials, the US ambassador and the director of the Denver Museum of Art.

The museum said it acquired the statue in 1986 from the Doris Weiner Gallery in New York City but only recently learned new facts about its provenance.

Cambodia's Secretary of State for the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts Chuch Phoeun holds a bundle of jasmine to place onto the Torso of Rama, a 10th century stone statue, during a handing over ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Monday, March 28, 2016. Cambodia welcomed home the stone statue, that was looted from a temple during the country's civil war, from Denver Art Museum in the United States. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

"We were recently provided with verifiable evidence that was not available to us at the time of acquisition, and immediately began taking all appropriate steps ... for its return home," Christoph Heinrich, the museum's director, said in a joint statement with the Cambodian government.

Cambodia's Secretary of State Chan Thani thanked the museum for voluntarily returning the piece, which he said shows its sensitivity to Cambodian culture.

"The return also highlights the serious looting in the past that had occurred in our country and the government's efforts to repatriate those artifacts that left the country illegally, which are parts of our soul as a nation," he said in the statement.

The statue will be returned to its home at the Prasat Chen temple on the Koh Ker temple complex in Siem Reap province, which is also home to the famed Angkor Wat complex.

It is the latest artwork returned to Cambodia in recent years. Among the galleries that have repatriated art are the Guimet Museum in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Cleveland Museum of Art, Sotheby's auction house, Christie's auction house and the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadea, California.

Yim Nolson, an official in charge of Cambodian culture, said the statue was stolen during the civil war in the 1970s and later transported to the U.S.

"Now after a long journey, he is finally back home," he said.

The Torso of Rama, a 10th century stone statue, is decorated with bundles of jasmine flowers during a handing over ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Monday, March 28, 2016. Cambodia welcomed home the stone statue, that was looted from a temple during the country's civil war, from the U.S. museum. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

Denver Art Museum Director Christoph Heinrich decorates a bundle of jasmine to the Torso of Rama, a 10th century stone statue, during a handing over ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Monday, March 28, 2016. Cambodia welcomed home the stone statue from the U.S. museum that was looted from a temple during the country's civil war. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

Denver Art Museum Director Christoph Heinrich speaks to the press after an handing over ceremony of the Torso of Rama in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Monday, March 28, 2016. Cambodia welcomed home the 10th century stone statue, that was looted from a temple during the country's civil war, from the U.S. museum. AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

The Torso of Rama, a 10th century stone statue, is displayed during a handing over ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Monday, March 28, 2016. Cambodia welcomed home the stone statue, that was looted from a temple during the country's civil war, from the U.S. museum. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)
Police who arrested Frenchman in Rotterdam found ammunition

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP)  Dutch police who arrested a French national in Rotterdam on suspicion of "planning a terror attack" found ammunition at a house they searched.

Wim de Bruin, a spokesman for the national prosecutor's office, said Monday that police who carried out raids the previous evening seized items including ammunition, money and drugs. He declined to elaborate on the sort of ammunition.

A special police unit arrested the 32-year-old Frenchman at the request of French authorities who suspect him of "involvement in planning a terror attack," prosecutors said. He is expected to be swiftly extradited to France.
The Latest: Obama meets anti-terror, homeland security team

BRUSSELS (AP)  The Latest on the March 22 attacks in Brussels at the airport and on the subway system (all times local):

1 a.m.

The White House says there's no specific, credible intelligence suggesting terrorists are plotting a Brussels-style attack in the U.S.

Right wing demonstrators run on flowers as they protest at a memorial site at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels, Sunday, March 27, 2016. In a sign of the tensions in the Belgian capital and the way security services are stretched across the country, Belgium's interior minister appealed to residents not to march Sunday in Brussels in solidarity with the victims. (AP Photo/Geert Vanden Wijngaert)

President Barack Obama met on Monday with his counterterrorism and homeland security team. The White House says Obama's advisers updated him on U.S. security efforts following the March 22 attacks in Belgium.

The White House says Obama heard about new efforts to share information among the U.S. and its partners to disrupt plots stemming from territory controlled by the Islamic State group. Obama was also briefed on how IS is using the Internet to recruit fighters and incite violence in the U.S. and elsewhere.

The White House says Obama directed his team to keep stepping up the fight against IS.

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9:40 p.m.

A religious service involving all major faiths has been held at the Brussels cathedral to commemorate the victims of last week's attacks that killed 35 people.

The service, which was held on Easter Monday, began with people directly affected by the attack, including police and airport staff, walking through the cathedral with candles.

Kamar Takkal, representing the Muslim community, said the service in "beautiful Brussels" was "symbolic."

"To all the victims, to all those who suffer around the world, dear God offer them the patience to overcome to sorrow and painful moment," she said.

Several people injured in the attacks were also present.

"I'm mainly here for the others," said airport employee Geoffroy LeMaitre. "I am saved so I wanted to be here for the others."

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8:40 p.m.

The White House says Europe must still do more to improve security measures to prevent incidents like the March 22 attacks in Brussels.

White House press secretary Josh Earnest says President Barack Obama made that point after the November attacks in Paris. He said the president had pushed for European security agencies to improve information-sharing among themselves and also with the U.S.

Earnest says there's been some progress made. But he says there is more that "can and must be done."

The White House isn't commenting specifically on a judge's order to release a man detained in connection with the Brussels attacks. The U.S. says it's continuing to offer assistance to Belgian authorities.

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5:15 p.m.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has pressed ahead with his criticism of European authorities' handling of extremists flagged by Turkey, saying they are deliberately allowing them to travel freely.

Erdogan has accused Dutch and Belgian authorities of incompetence for not taking any action against Ibrahim El Bakraoui despite Turkish warnings that he was a "foreign terrorist fighter." El Bakraoui later turned out to be one of the suicide bombers at Brussels Airport.

On Monday, Erdogan accused European authorities of ignoring Turkish requests that people flagged by Turkey be prevented from traveling out of their countries. He says European countries are still allowing fighters to travel to Turkey and Syria.

Erdogan says "this was their way of seeing things: these names linked to terror organizations should go to Turkey, to Syria or Iraq and do whatever they want to do as long as they don't carry out any acts on our soils."

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4:45 p.m.

A man detained by Belgian authorities in connection with the Brussels attacks has been released by a judge.

The judge found there was no evidence to justify holding Faycal C., the Belgian Federal Prosecutor's Office said in a statement Monday.

Prosecutors had reported earlier that Fayal C. was facing preliminary charges of "involvement in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder."

Belgian media had claimed the man  who they identified as Fayal Cheffou  had been seen on video with the suicide bombers at the airport on Tuesday morning before the attacks.

But police on Monday released airport surveillance video of a man with the two airport suicide bombers and asked for the public's help in establishing his identity.

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1:10 p.m.

The website of Belgium's Federal Police on Monday began carrying a 32-second video of a mysterious man in a hat suspected of having taking part in the March 22 bombing of Brussels Airport.

"The police are seeking to identify this man," the site says.

The implication is that the suspected accomplice of the two airport suicide bombers could still be at large. The video shows the man, wearing glasses and a white jacket, wheeling a baggage cart through the airport along with the two men identified by Belgian authorities as the bombers.

Belgian media previous reported that Faycal Cheffou  reported to be the man identified by authorities as Faycal C. who is in custody and has been charged with terror offenses  had been identified as the suspect who escaped from Brussels Airport following the bombing. Police had refused to confirm that report.

Police did not say why they had released the video.

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12:15 p.m.

The Belgian health minister says four of those wounded in the suicide bombings last week have died in the hospital, bringing the number of victims of the bombings to 35.

The minister, Maggie De Block, made the announcement on her Twitter account Monday morning.

She posted: "Four patients deceased in hospital. Medical teams did all possible. Total victims: 35. Courage to all the families."

Suicide bombers hit Brussels Airport and a city subway train on March 22 in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group.

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11:25 a.m.

Belgian prosecutors say three people have been ordered held on charges of participating in terrorist group activities

They were among four people detained during Sunday searches in Brussels and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel.

Belgian prosecutors did not release details on the alleged terrorist actions or whether they were linked to the March 22 suicide bombings at Brussels airport and in the Brussels subway.

The fourth person has been released without charge, according to a statement from the Belgian Federal Prosecutor's Office Monday.

Those charged by the investigating magistrate were identified only as Yassine A., Mohamed B. and Aboubaker O.

10:45 a.m.

A week after devastating suicide bomb attacks, Brussels Airport will test its capacity to partially resume passenger service. But it's too early to say when service might actually resume, an airport official said Monday.

Florence Muls, the airport's external communications manager, said 800 staff members on Tuesday will test temporary infrastructure and new arrangements designed for passenger check-in. The Belgian government must approve the new system, Muls said, before Brussels Airport can resume handling passenger traffic.

Two suicide bombers on March 22 caused great damage to the airport's departure hall, and along with another suicide bomber who blew himself up on a Brussels subway train, killed at least 31 people and injured some 270.

Right wing demonstrators protest at a memorial site at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels, Sunday, March 27, 2016. In a sign of the tensions in the Belgian capital and the way security services are stretched across the country, Belgium's interior minister appealed to residents not to march Sunday in Brussels in solidarity with the victims. (AP Photo/Valentin Bianchi)

Riot police attend a memorial site during a protest by right wing demonstrators at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels, Sunday, March 27, 2016. In a sign of the tensions in the Belgian capital and the way security services are stretched across the country, Belgium's interior minister appealed to residents not to march Sunday in Brussels in solidarity with the victims. (AP Photo/Valentin Bianchi)

Right wing demonstrators protest at a memorial site at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels, Sunday, March 27, 2016. In a sign of the tensions in the Belgian capital and the way security services are stretched across the country, Belgium's interior minister appealed to residents not to march Sunday in Brussels in solidarity with the victims. (AP Photo/Valentin Bianchi)
Clinton: Supreme Court's future hangs in the balance in 2016

MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Hillary Clinton said Monday that the future of the Supreme Court would hang in the balance of the 2016 election, warning that Republican front-runner Donald Trump would bring division to the court if he was allowed to shape its future.

Clinton said Trump would roll back the rights of individuals and further empower corporations, pointing to his past statements about building a wall along the Mexican border and barring all non-citizen Muslims from entering the United States.

"In a single term, the Supreme Court could demolish pillars of the progressive movement," Clinton said at the University of Wisconsin. She pointed to the possibility of a Trump presidency, asking, "What kind of justice will a President Trump appoint?"

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton speaks at the University of Wisconsin in Madison, Wis., Monday, March 28, 2016. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

Clinton opened a two-day campaign trip in Wisconsin ahead of the state's April 5 primary with a topic certain to unite Democrats whether they support her or Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders: President Barack Obama's nomination of Judge Merrick Garland.

Republicans have said the late Justice Antonin Scalia should not be replaced until the next president picks a nominee. But Clinton argued it was reminiscent of GOP-led gridlock that stymied Obama's two terms.

"We chose a president. We chose him twice," Clinton said. "And now Republicans in the Senate are acting like our votes didn't count and President Obama is not still our nation's leader."

She called on Senate Judiciary Chairman Charles Grassley of Iowa to commit to giving Garland a hearing and she rebuked Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, who is among the Republicans blocking the Garland nomination. "Tell him to stop playing games with the Supreme Court," Clinton said, noting Johnson's 2016 challenge from former Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold.

Grassley, speaking ahead of Clinton's remarks, said she was trying to divert attention from her "email troubles."

"This is simply a blatant attempt by Secretary Clinton to politicize the Supreme Court and to change the conversation," Grassley said in a statement. "Her actions as Secretary of State are under investigation by Congress, two Obama-appointed inspectors general, and the FBI."

Clinton said that while Republicans have bemoaned the rise of Trump, he didn't "come out of nowhere. What the Republicans have sown with their extremist tactics, they are now reaping with Donald Trump's candidacy."

She pointed to Trump's role in the birther movement that sought to question Obama's citizenship and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz's "strategy of holding the government hostage to get his way."

"Once you make the extreme normal, you open the door to even worse," she said.

Trump has cited the Supreme Court's future as the top reason why Republicans should rally around his candidacy to defeat Clinton.

He has said he would appoint staunchly conservative, well-respected and intelligent judges and has promised to release a list of the men and women would who be on his short list.

At a Milwaukee rally, Clinton added Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker to her list of targets, criticizing the former GOP presidential candidate for "destroying unions," cutting funding for higher education and declining to extend Medicaid to working people.

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Associated Press writers Alan Fram in Washington and Jill Colvin in Jersey City, New Jersey, contributed to this report.

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Follow Ken Thomas on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/kthomasdc
10 Things to Know for Tuesday - 29 March 2016

Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about Tuesday:

1. GOVERNMENT NO LONGER NEEDS APPLE'S HELP IN CRACKING IPHONE

Instead, the FBI says it was able to hack the phone used by the San Bernardino gunman itself, using a mysterious technique.

U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa speaks to the media about a shooting incident in Washington, Monday, March 28, 2016. Capitol Police officers say a man was shot by police after drawing a weapon at a U.S. Capitol checkpoint. He was taken to the hospital. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

2. GUNFIRE SPREADS PANIC ON CAPITOL HILL

With spring tourists thronging Washington, police shoot a man after he pulls a weapon at a U.S. Capitol checkpoint.

3. WHICH STATE IS CONSIDERING SHARP HIKE IN MINIMUM WAGE

Lawmakers in California are poised to send a bill to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown that would raise the minimum wage to a nation-leading $15 an hour.

4. GAY, TRANSGENDER RIGHTS SUPPORTERS SUE NORTH CAROLINA OVER NEW LAW

The law, signed by the state's Republican governor last week, obligates transgender people to use restrooms matching their birth certificates.

5. ALASKA VOLCANO SPEWS COLUMN OF ASH

Strong winds push the plume into the heart of the state, grounding flights and limiting travel in communities off the road system.

6. WHO'S CRITIQUING US DRIVE TO INCREASE BUSINESS WITH CUBA

Fidel Castro says in a long, bristling letter in state media that Cuba doesn't "need the empire to give us any presents."

7. SCIENTISTS SEE FRESH EVIDENCE OF GLOBAL WARMING

They say the growth of Arctic sea ice this winter peaked at the lowest maximum level on record.

8. FIRE RACES UP HIGH-RISE TOWER

It's the latest in a series of skyscraper blazes in the United Arab Emirates, home to the world's tallest building.

9. WHY MARRIOTT'S EXPANSION PLANS HAVE STALLED

The company's bid for Starwood and its tony stable of hotels is trumped by a $15 billion offer from China's Anbang.

10. ADVANCES SEEN IN DIAGNOSING HEAD TRAUMA

New research bolsters evidence that a simple blood test may someday be used to detect concussions.

This Friday, March 25, 2016, photo shows the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Richmond, Va. The Starwood bidding war continues, with the hotel chain announcing Monday, March 28, 2016, that a sweetened offer from a group led by Chinese insurance company Anbang is likely to be superior to Marriotts revised bid. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
8-year-old lost daughter rejoins Syrian family in Cyprus

NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP)  Jaffar Ismail says his daughter Amal sometimes asks why he and his wife abandoned her in the chaos of their bombed-out neighborhood in the southern Syrian town of Nawa.

Fleeing the town after a bomb dropped by a warplane flattened a house a few doors down from the family's home, Ismail and his wife Maha lived every parent's horror: mistakenly leaving a child behind amid the panic of a warzone.

It took more than two years, but 8-year-old Amal rejoined her family last month thanks to the efforts of the International Organization for Migration, a group dedicated to assisting in migration-related issues.

In this Tuesday, March 22, 2016 photo, eight-year old Amal Ismail sits at the IOM 'International Organization for Migration' office in Nicosia, Cyprus. The family of Amal Ismail fled from their family home in the southern Syrian town of Nawa, as bombs fell around them, and in their blind panic Jaffar Ismail and his wife Maha lived every parents horror by leaving little Amal behind. It has taken more than two years, but eight-year-old Amal has rejoined her family thanks to the efforts of the International Organization for Migration, a group dedicated to assisting in migration-related issues. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

"My wife and I (each) thought that Amal was with the other," the 39-year-old carpenter told The Associated Press in an interview. "Many children were lost that day."

When the bombs started falling, Ismail grabbed his oldest daughter Alaa, who has trouble walking because of a congenital back problem, and ran out in the street for fear that their home would be hit.

When he met up with his wife, and despite the realization that Amal wasn't with either of them, Ismail said they decided to leave Nawa, assuming that the child was safe with his parents or his many siblings, who had taken refuge in another village.

Unable to contact relatives, Ismail then took his family across the border into Lebanon. A couple of months later, they traveled to Turkey where they made contact with a man who arranged to take them by speedboat to Cyprus' northern coast.

Ismail said the nighttime boat trip, along with more than a dozen people including children, took a couple of hours and cost him 4,500 euros ($5,000). He said the three spent the day in an olive orchard in the ethnically split island's breakaway Turkish Cypriot north, before someone showed up to guide them into the internationally recognized south.

The shock came when Ismail managed to make contact with one of his brothers back in Syria using a smart-phone application that permits free-of-charge calls. His brother said the family thought Amal was with them.

"My wife started crying, she just wanted to go back," he said.

Thankfully, a few more calls to his father and cousins tracked Amal down: the wife of a relative found her in the street and took her in.

Ismail was eventually put in touch with the IOM, which started to put the process in motion. Ismail's brother took Amal to the Syrian-Jordanian border where IOM officials picked her up and supplied her with a Cypriot visa. She was then put on a plane to Cyprus with a female, Arabic-speaking escort and reunited with her family, which in the meantime had grown by one  another baby sister, Aryam, now a precocious 18-month-old.

Ismail said Amal is only now getting over her fear of loud noises. "If a motorcycle passes by our home, she comes into the room crying," he says. Then there's the single strand of white hair that he found among Amal's black, shoulder-length hair that he says is probably owed to the anxiety of separation.

Like the overwhelming majority of Syrians who fled their homeland and arrived in Cyprus, Ismail was granted subsidiary protection. Although fully entitled to all the rights afforded to an asylum-seeker, those under subsidiary protection cannot bring family members to join them.

IOM Cyprus chief officer Natasa Xenophontos Koudouna said Ismail was granted an exception by the Cypriot interior minister after his case was reviewed, allowing for Amal to be reunited with her family.

According to migration department figures, of the 1,384 people who were granted subsidiary protection last year, 1,350 were Syrians; so far this year, 176 of 188 people granted subsidiary protection are Syrians.

As Interior Minister Socrates Hasikos put it, Cyprus has been "fortunate" not to experience the mass influx of migrants over the course of the Syrian conflict, despite its close proximity to the country itself  less than 100 kilometers (62 miles) at its easternmost tip from the Syrian coastline.

Cyprus' distance from the European mainland and troubled economy that needed a bailout from European Union partners to get back on its feet haven't made the island an attractive destination.

But as the EU has struck a deal with Turkey to massively curtail flows of migrants into the continent through Greece, it's believed that migrants will seek out new routes and Cyprus may experience a spike in arrivals, possibly through the breakaway north.

"Migrant arrivals to Cyprus could increase as people seek alternative routes to Europe if flows from Turkey to Greece stop or are greatly reduced," said the IOM's Xenophontos Koudona.

Ismail said the war took everything from him  his carpentry shop where he employed 10 people, and his three properties. He's already spent the 30,000 euros ($33,500) in savings he brought with him from home and lives on a 900 euro-a-month ($1,005) allowance he receives from the state.

Now he's looking to get Alaa the surgery she needs to walk properly, in Germany where his wife has family.

"The people are nice here, but it's difficult," he said. "Life in Syria is a thousand times better. ... Hopefully the war will stop and we'll be able to go back."

Not for little Amal. "I don't want to go back home," she said.

In this Tuesday, March 22, 2016 photo, Amal Ismail eight year old, center with her older sister Alaa and their younger 18-month-old Aryam are seen at the IOM 'International Organization for Migration' office in capital Nicosia, Cyprus. Fleeing the Syrian town of Nawa after a bomb flattened a house a few doors down from the familys home, Jaffar Ismail and his wife Maha lived every parents horror. They mistakenly left a child behind amid the panic of a warzone. It took more than two years, but eight-year-old Amal rejoined her family last month thanks to the efforts of the International Organization for Migration, a group dedicated to assisting in migration-related issues. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)

In this Tuesday, March 22, 2016 photo, Amal Ismail eight year old, with her 18-month-old younger sister Aryam are seen at the IOM 'International Organization for Migration' office in capital Nicosia, Cyprus. Fleeing the Syrian town of Nawa after a bomb flattened a house a few doors down from the familys home, Jaffar Ismail and his wife Maha lived every parents horror. They mistakenly left a child behind amid the panic of a warzone. It took more than two years, but eight-year-old Amal rejoined her family last month thanks to the efforts of the International Organization for Migration, a group dedicated to assisting in migration-related issues. (AP Photo/Petros Karadjias)
Greece to set up loudspeakers at border camp

ATHENS, Greece (AP)  The Greek government said Monday it will set up loudspeakers at the country's border with Macedonia to try and persuade thousands of refugees and migrants to ignore false rumors that the Balkan route to central Europe will reopen.

More than 15,000 people  nearly a third of the total stranded in Greece  are refusing to move to government-built shelters around the country, and remain at the border with Macedonia and at the port of Piraeus, near Athens.

A spokesman for a government refugee crisis committee said authorities were struggling to counter false rumors on social media that borders could reopen.

An Afghan child looks out behind a wire fence of a refugee camp in the western Athens' suburb of Schisto, Monday, March 28, 2016. The camp is hosting 1971 people most of them from Afghanistan as around 50,000 refugees and migrants are stuck in Greece. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris)

"People who are under strain and living in difficult conditions are receiving false reports ... when people are desperate, rumors spread like wildfire," Kyritsis told state television.

"We are sending a team of translators (to the border) and loudspeakers will be set up to make public announcements," he said.

Macedonia's parliament, meanwhile, voted Monday to extend the state of emergency in regions bordering Greece and Serbia till the end of the year because of the ongoing migrant crisis.

The vote allows continued deployment of the army along the border with Greece to patrol a recently built fence that lines the frontier.

Over the weekend, Greece's armed forces set up more shelter places at various sites around the country.

The country is struggling to implement an agreement between the European Union and Turkey that would see refugees and migrants sent back to Turkey from Greek islands. However, the deal requires the deployment of hundreds of European migration officers and others for the deal to work.

More than 2,000 people who reached the islands after March 20 have been detained to await deportation and continued their protests Monday on the islands of Chios and Lesbos, where they chanted "we want freedom."

Protests intensified when Public Order Minister Nikos Toskas visited the two sites.

He said the number of migrants arriving in Greece had fallen steadily since March 20.

"It is clear that Turkey can control the situation and it has done so in accordance with the agreement," Toskas said. "It remains to be seen in the coming days whether that will continue.

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Konstantin Testorides in Skopje, Macedonia and Nikolia Apostolou in Lesbos, Greece contributed.

Migrants sleep on train tracks near the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A woman walks through the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A girl walks through the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A boy feeds a child in the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A migrant girl looks from inside a railway wagon at a train station near the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A refugee child holds a ball while walking between tents at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia, Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

A woman passes rubble as she walks through the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A woman walks passed rubble at a makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A woman walks through the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Migrants wait for food in the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Migrant children look from inside a rail car at a train station near a makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A man combs his hair by looking himself on a mobile phone while children play by their tent at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia, Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

A refugee woman washes clothes outside a tent in a freezing morning at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

Refugee children covered with blankets sleep in a tent at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia, Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

Refugee women walk in a freezing morning at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia, Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

A migrant passes by a fence in a freezing morning at the transit center for refugees near northern Macedonian village of Tabanovce on the border with Serbia, Monday, March 28, 2016. More than 1.000 refugees and migrants remain stranded in northern Macedonia since earlier this month, after a string of countries shut down the Balkan route which migrants used to go from Greece to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski)

A migrant girl eats in the makeshift refugee camp at the northern Greek border point of Idomeni, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

A police officer blocks migrants near the Evzoni border crossing, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)

Migrants block a road near the Evzoni border crossing, Greece, Monday, March 28, 2016. Over 11,000 refugees and migrants stranded at this makeshift encampment, some for weeks, after Balkan countries on what used to be the busiest migrant route to central and northern Europe shut down their borders. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic)
Protesters call for Ukraine's General Prosecutor to resign

MOSCOW (AP)  Over 500 protesters have gathered outside the administrative headquarters of Ukraine's president to call for the resignation of the country's general prosecutor, who they say, has failed to use the full power of his office to deal with endemic corruption.

Monday's protest comes after a Kiev court gave the prosecutor's office, which is run by Viktor Shokin, full rein to investigate one of its toughest critics, the Anti-Corruption Action Center, over claims that the watchdog embezzled $2.2 million in aid.

Under the terms of the warrant, the general prosecutor's office can seize documents and access confidential bank information.

The Anti-Corruption Action Center has described the charges as politically motivated. The U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine has also raised concerns.
Trump set to visit Wisconsin, but Cruz has head start

OSHKOSH, Wisconsin (AP)  Donald Trump is planning to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin on Tuesday, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable race.

But rival Ted Cruz has gotten a jump-start on next week's contest, collecting influential endorsements and campaigning in key regions.

A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would narrow Trump's path to the nomination, put pressure on the billionaire to sweep the remaining winner-take-all primaries this spring and increase the chances of a contested party convention in July.

File-In this March 19, 2016, file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in Tucson, Ariz. Trump is planning Tuesday to make his first campaign visit to Wisconsin, where the upcoming Republican presidential primary could mark a turning point in the unpredictable GOP race. But rival Ted Cruz has gotten a jumpstart on the contest, racking up influential endorsements, campaigning in key regions and supported by bullish advertising campaign. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

"The results in Wisconsin will impact significantly the primaries to come," Cruz told The Associated Press after a rally Friday.

Next Tuesday's contest will be the first primary since the Texas senator began collecting the backing of establishment Republicans, such as former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, adamant about eliminating Trump.

As Cruz campaigned across the state, he was following a winning roadmap drawn by Wisconsin governor Scott Walker in 2010 in Wisconsin's rural and working-class midsection, the same demographic that has driven Trump's success thus far.

Trump has slightly fewer than half of the Republican delegates allocated so far, short of the majority needed to clinch the nomination before the party's national convention this summer. Cruz has more than a third of the delegates.

If Cruz wins most of the 42 delegates in Wisconsin, then the remaining winner-take-all contests in Delaware, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey and North Dakota could determine the future of the race. A solid Cruz win in Wisconsin would likely require Trump to win those five contests to avoid fighting for the nomination at the party's national convention.

Trump on Monday told Wisconsin-based radio host Charlie Sykes that he would not apologize to Cruz's wife, Heidi, whom he mocked on Twitter last week until Cruz apologizes for the ad his supporters ran in Utah featuring a photo of a partially clad Melania Trump that originally appeared in GQ magazine.

Cruz has said he knew nothing about the ad, which was published by a political action committee that backed him.

That did not satisfy Trump, who said, "I didn't start, he started it. If he didn't start it, it never would have happened."

Cruz's campaign was airing about $500,000 in advertising over the final two weeks before the primary  a sharp contrast to Trump, who aired no commercials in the state. The anti-tax group Club for Growth announced its plans to spend $1 million on pro-Cruz ads, while an anti-Trump group was spending roughly $340,000 in the final two weeks.

The third remaining Republican candidate, Ohio Gov. John Kasich, has also visited Wisconsin, but polls show him trailing both Trump and Cruz.

"Ted Cruz has a real opportunity to win the state, in a way that would be pretty resounding," said Mark Graul, an unaffiliated Republican strategist from the state.
Dell selling IT unit to NTT Data for more than $3 billion

NEW YORK (AP)  Dell Inc. is selling its Dell Services information technology unit to NTT Data Inc. for just over $3 billion as part of its ongoing reorganization plan.

Dell had purchased the business for $3.9 billion in 2009 when it was Perot Systems, founded by billionaire and onetime presidential candidate Ross Perot.

The sale comes as privately-held Dell prepares to buy data storage provider EMC for $67 billion and tries to reinvent itself as more than just a personal computer company. That deal was announced in October and was initially targeted to close in the second or third quarter of Dell's fiscal year ending Feb. 3, 2017.

Japan-based NTT Data focuses on information technology in the medical field, including medical records and billing.
Georgia governor says he will veto religious exemption bill

ATLANTA (AP)  Georgia's Gov. Nathan Deal took a stand against his own party and averted threatened boycotts by major corporations on Monday by announcing his veto of a "religious freedom" bill.

"I do not think that we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia," the Republican governor declared.

Religious conservatives had campaigned hard for Deal's signature, but the industries he has recruited to Georgia also applied pressure.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal speaks during a news conference as he announces he has vetoed legislation allowing clergy to refuse performing gay marriage and protecting people who refuse to attend the ceremonies Monday, March 28, 2016, in Atlanta. The Republican rejected the bill on Monday, saying "I have examined the protections that this bill proposes to provide to the faith based community and I can find no examples of any of those circumstances occurring in our state." (AP Photo/David Goldman)

The National Football League warned that Atlanta's bid for the 2019 or 2020 Super Bowl could be in jeopardy. Technology firms, led by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, asked for Deal's veto. The Walt Disney Company, Marvel Studios and dozens of Hollywood figures vowed to take projects elsewhere, despite Georgia's generous tax credits for the film industry. Multimillion-dollar events and investments were threatened.

Lawmakers around the U.S. are advancing "religious freedom" measures, which have passed at least one chamber in ten states: Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, South Dakota, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. But Deal said only the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution can protect people of faith  along with everybody else.

"If indeed our religious liberty is conferred by God and not by man-made government, we should heed the 'hands-off' admonition of the First Amendment to our Constitution," Deal said. "When legislative bodies attempt to do otherwise, the inclusions and omissions in their statutes can lead to discrimination, even though it may be unintentional. That is too great a risk to take."

Deal's veto stands in sharp contrast to North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory's signature last week on a law that prohibits local anti-discrimination ordinances and obligates transgender people to use restrooms matching their birth certificates. The outcomes highlight the increasing conflicts between the twin pillars of the Republican Party's power structure  religion and business  in state legislatures where Republicans have overwhelming majorities.

McCrory, a 59-year-old Republican seeking a second term in Raleigh, must mobilize his party's core voters in November. Deal, now 74 and not planning to run again for office, is relatively immune to such pressures.

Emboldened by the boycott threats that forced Indiana to revise its "religious freedom" law last year, Georgia's business community formed a coalition of more than 500 companies, including Cola-Cola, Delta Air Lines and other top employers, to counter the measure.

Many have large operations in Atlanta, a city proud of the pragmatic, "too busy to hate" image it fostered in the civil rights era. Back then, Coca-Cola's Robert Woodruff, former mayors William Hartsfield and Ivan Allen and other civic leaders wanted to avoid unrest that might spook companies deciding where to locate their regional headquarters.

But their efforts were focused within the city. The legislature is more unwieldy, with lawmakers representing a blend of urban newcomers and rural southerners.

Georgia legislators had sparred for three years over protecting people whose religious beliefs clash with state and local laws. After the U.S. Supreme Court's decision legalizing gay marriage, proponents pushed even harder. Legislative leaders finally drafted what they considered a compromise, and only 11 Republican lawmakers joined every Democrat in opposition.

House Speaker David Ralston said he respects Deal's "thoughtful consideration" but doesn't believe the bill permits discrimination.

The measure included language modeled on the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act. People claiming their religious freedoms are burdened could force state and local governments to prove a "compelling" interest in enforcing laws that conflict with their beliefs. It also would have protected clergy who decline to perform gay marriages, businesses that turn away customers for religious reasons, and churches and affiliated religious groups that cite faith as a reason for refusing to serve or hire someone.

But Deal said he could "find no examples that any of the things this bill seeks to protect us against have ever occurred in Georgia."

Supporters touted language that the bill did not permit discrimination prohibited by federal or state law. But since Georgia law lacks protections for LGBT people, opponents said the bill would strike local ordinances that do prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Georgia's General Assembly has adjourned for the year, but the issue is sure to come up again when lawmakers return in January.

"We're not going to quit," said Mike Griffin, spokesman for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. "We definitely don't want to have Gov. Deal listening to Wall Street and Hollywood over the citizens of the state of Georgia who expect him to support religious liberty."

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Contributors include Associated Press writers Bill Barrow and Ryan Phillips in Atlanta and Russ Bynum in Savannah.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal speaks during a press conference to announce he has vetoed legislation allowing clergy to refuse performing gay marriage and protecting people who refuse to attend the ceremonies Monday, March 28, 2016, in Atlanta. The Republican rejected the bill on Monday, saying, "I do not think that we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia." (AP Photo/David Goldman)

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal speaks during a press conference to announce he has vetoed legislation allowing clergy to refuse performing gay marriage and protecting people who refuse to attend the ceremonies Monday, March 28, 2016, in Atlanta. The Republican rejected the bill on Monday, saying, "I do not think that we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia." (AP Photo/David Goldman)

The seal of the state of Georgia hangs behind Gov. Nathan Deal as he speaks during a press conference to announce he has vetoed legislation allowing clergy to refuse performing gay marriage and protecting people who refuse to attend the ceremonies Monday, March 28, 2016, in Atlanta. The Republican rejected the bill on Monday, saying, "I do not think that we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia." (AP Photo/David Goldman)
North Carolina officer released from hospital after shooting

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP)  A white Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer has been released from a hospital after being wounded in an exchange of gunfire with a black man who was also wounded.

Police spokesman Keith Trietley said in a statement that officers were called to a report that someone had been shot Saturday night. That person was not seriously injured. Police Chief Kerr Putney says the suspect fired at three officers and was wounded in the exchange.

Lt. Andy Harris was released Sunday from Carolinas Medical Center,

Twenty-five-year-old Joshulae Matthew-Vincent Carter remained in critical condition.

It was not clear which officer or officers shot Carter.

The statement said when Carter is released he will be charged with assaulting police officers, attempted murder, kidnapping and other offenses.
Turkey: More than 5,300 Kurdish rebels killed or captured

ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey's president says the Turkish security forces have killed or captured more than 5,300 Kurdish rebels since hostilities resumed in July.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also said Monday a total of 355 security force members have been killed in the conflict during that period  215 soldiers, 133 police officers and seven government-paid village guards.

The conflict flared in the summer after a fragile peace process that began in 2012 broke down. Since then, government forces have launched large-scale offensives against Kurdish militants in several urban districts in the mainly-Kurdish southeast region while Turkish jets have carried out cross-border airstrikes on suspected PKK Kurdish rebel hideouts in northern Iraq.
Seeking clues about terror cells: First find out who lives

BRUSSELS (AP)  The bomb maker, the transporter, the landlord and the cipher. The four men slipped away after the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris, and all but one reappeared as key figures in the Islamic State cell that went on to attack Brussels.

Two are dead, one is captured, and the fate of the fourth remains a mystery.

Which attackers live and die in an operation can provide crucial clues as to how a terrorist cell is structured, demonstrating who is considered disposable and who is crucial for the next job. That status can be fleeting, as the attacks in Paris and Brussels show that someone considered vital in one operation may be sacrificed in another.

In this image provided by the Belgian Federal Police in Brussels on Tuesday, March 22, 2016 of three men who are suspected of taking part in the attacks at Belgium's Zaventem Airport. The website of Belgium's Federal Police on Monday, March 28 began carrying a 32-second video of a mysterious man in a hat suspected of having taking part in the March 22 bombing of Brussels Airport. "The police are seeking to identify this man," the site says. The implication is that the suspected accomplice of the two airport suicide bombers could still be at large. (Belgian Federal Police via AP)

Some of the figures in the Paris plot had become "cannon fodder" by the time of the Brussels attacks, said Nicolas Henin, a journalist held hostage by Islamic State for 10 months.

"Once they had performed their services in Paris, they were considered expendable," he wrote. "That is how (the Islamic State group) works in terms of human resources."

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THE BOMB MAKER

With a newly minted degree in mechanical engineering, Najim Laachraoui left for Syria in February 2013  a relatively early departure in the wave of Belgians who have traveled to fight with the extremists.

He returned home 2 years later as an expert in urban explosives, bearing a fake Belgian ID and an alias: Soufiane Kayal. On Sept. 9, 2015, police at the Austro-Hungarian border briefly stopped a Mercedes in which he was traveling and sent him on his way. In the car with him were Salah Abdeslam and another Islamic State recruit with a fake Belgian ID.

None of the three fired a shot in Paris the night of Nov. 13, but all played key roles in making it happen.

Laachraoui's job was to manufacture the TATP explosives and the suicide vests. His DNA was found on one of the vests that detonated inside the Bataclan concert hall as well as one that blew up outside France's national stadium. The man himself was nowhere to be found.

Thirteen days later, that same DNA was found in a safe house in Belgian town of Auvelais, and authorities soon linked the name Kayal to another apartment in nearby Charleroi, where some of the November attackers had stayed before traveling convoy-style to Paris. They didn't, however, connect the alias to Laachraoui.

The cell, meanwhile, appears to have found another place for the smelly, dangerous process of making TATP: a top-floor flat in the Brussels suburb of Schaerbeek. In hiding, at least one experienced bomb maker kept busy.

Criminals like TATP because it's relatively easy to acquire its ingredients, but the manufacturing process is volatile. In 1995, a plot to assassinate the pope and President Bill Clinton unraveled when a makeshift TATP lab in Manila caught fire, drawing the attention of authorities.

Without a real laboratory, the bomb maker would have needed tremendous care and steady nerves  as well as massive amounts of ice to cool a noxious solution prone to catching fire, with windows wide open to avoid being overcome by the fumes.

It appears the cell was up to the task. In the Schaerbeek apartment, there was enough TATP for three massive suitcase bombs  15 to 20 kilograms each, experts say. There were also 15 kilograms left over and enough base materials to make 100 kilograms more, said Jimmie Oxley, a University of Rhode Island chemistry professor who specializes in explosives.

"A master bomb maker may be in play here," Oxley said.

But when it came time to carry out the plot, Laachraoui's career in building bombs came to an abrupt end. On Tuesday, he was one of three men who wheeled suitcases packed with explosives into the departures hall of Brussels Airport. Laachraoui and his companion wore black, down to the single glove on their left hands believed to have concealed their detonators. The third attacker wore white, a distinctive hat slightly askew as he pushed the one load that would not kill.

Why Laachraoui had gone from bomb maker to suicide bomber remains unclear. Had the group found a replacement? Had he become too much of a liability as police closed in on his trail? The answer remains a mystery.

"It's strange," said Patrick Skinner, a former CIA case officer who is now with the Soufan Group security firm. "They don't have a shortage of people that are willing to become a walking bomb, but there's always a shortage of talent. It's like having General Eisenhower lead the charge at D-Day. It's possible but it seems to be a supreme waste of talent."

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THE TRANSPORTER

Salah Abdeslam drove thousands of miles across Europe over months, collecting accomplices, scouting locations and buying equipment. He rented apartments and cars and, on the night of Nov. 11, drove toward Paris with another onetime petty criminal and boyhood friend, Mohamed Abrini. The two were spotted together in a Renault Clio at a service station along the highway linking Paris and Brussels.

Abdeslam ditched the car in northern Paris and is believed to have discarded his unexploded suicide vest south of the city. And he called on two friends from Brussels' Molenbeek neighborhood to drive through the night and pick him up. By then, Abdeslam's older brother Brahim was dead, the only victim of the suicide blast that demolished a bar in central Paris.

"He has a personality that is more complex than the terrorist automaton who is just there to blow himself up," Marc Trevedic, France's former anti-terrorist judge, told BFM television. "Not fragile, but complex."

But it may have been more than second guessing that kept Abdeslam alive that night and for the four months he spent hiding among friends back in Brussels.

"I think he had no desire to die, and he had other things to do," said Nathalie Goulet, a French senator and co-president of a commission that studied the jihadi networks now terrorizing Europe. "They escape, they gather back home, they resume, because that's their job."

Abdeslam was flushed out on March 15, when police went to search what they thought was a vacant apartment in the Forest neighborhood of Brussels and instead were sprayed with gunfire. One man wielding a Kalashnikov held officers at bay as two others bolted across rooftops to safety. One of them was Salah Abdeslam. The second man remains unidentified.

One or both were important enough that the gunman kept firing until he was killed by a police sniper. Inside the apartment  rented by the same man who exactly a week later would detonate his explosives in the Brussels metro  was an Islamic State banner, shells and a book on Salafist Islam, the austere strain linked to the group.

But Abdeslam's days of freedom were numbered. By March 18, police had traced him to another hideout  this time just around the corner from his childhood home in Molenbeek. He was shot in the leg as he tried to escape yet again. In the four days between his capture and the blasts that shook Brussels, he made no mention of a new plot afoot, nor did he explain his role in the Paris attacks, beyond what Belgian and French media described as blanket denials of responsibility or close ties to the attackers.

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THE LANDLORD

Khalid El Bakraoui was another man with an alias and a warrant out for his arrest. He and his brother Ibrahim were known criminals, bank robbers and car thieves with a string of convictions between them.

Interpol issued an international warrant for his arrest in December  soon after it was discovered he had rented the Charleroi apartment that served as a departure point for some of the Paris killers.

It took investigators until Dec. 9 to track down that safe house  enough time that El Bakraoui was again entrusted with scouting locations for the network's growing number of accomplices and possibly for a new attack. Belgian media say the brothers had video of the home of a senior official at a nuclear waste facility in the Flanders region.

It was El Bakraoui who rented the Forest safe house and was seen leaving the Schaerbeek apartment that served as the explosives warehouse for Tuesday's attacks.

But he apparently ensured that his own home was scrubbed clean of links to Islamic State or the attacks. On Wednesday morning, investigators searched the homes of the El Bakraoui brothers and came up empty.

By then, the brothers were dead, Khalid in the Maelbeek metro station, his brother at the airport. When shown a photo of the brothers, Abdeslam claimed he did not know them.

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THE CIPHER

Mohamed Abrini, a 31-year-old Belgian petty criminal and boyhood friend of the Abdeslams, is believed to have traveled early last summer to Syria, a short trip to the country where his younger brother died in 2014 in Islamic State's notorious francophone brigade.

But that wasn't his only international travel. He went multiple times to Birmingham, England, meeting with several men suspected of terrorist activity, according to a European security official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to provide details on the investigation. He said the meetings, including one later last summer, took place in several locations, including cafes and apartments.

Abrini's role in the subsequent weeks and months while the Paris attackers were coming together has never been clarified. He has been on the run since the Nov. 13 attacks but never resurfaced after the emergence of the surveillance video placing him in the convoy with the attackers headed to Paris. Like Abdeslam, he had ties to Abdelhamid Abbaoud, the charismatic ringleader of the Paris attacks who died in a police standoff on Nov. 18.

He is the last identified suspect still at large from the November attacks.

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OTHER SUSPECTS

But there are suspects at large from the Brussels attacks.

Those include a man in a dark hat who accompanied the two airport suicide bombers and another man who led Khalid into the Brussels subway and drove a gray Audi that was spotted by surveillance cameras, according to a European security official, who was not permitted to speak publicly about the footage.

Belgian prosecutors on Monday released a 32-second video of the man in the dark hat and white jacket wheeling luggage through the airport with the bombers. They said he had not yet been identified and asked the public for help.

"What is interesting here is the presence of watchmen  the guy in white seen next to the two bombers at the airport and the driver of the bomber who attacked the subway line," said the official. He said he believed it was significant that no one with operational links and knowledge of the chain of command was thought to be alive.

But that interpretation may be too optimistic, said Skinner, the former CIA case worker.

"They are more resilient than you would want and that you'd ever expect, and they have more people who know what they are doing," he said.

Claude Moniquet, a French former intelligence officer who works in Brussels, said there were two possibilities for the men on the run: One is that they are the shattered remnants of a cell that has lost its access to explosives and weapons, and lacks contact with any other Islamic State operatives in Europe. The other is more menacing.

"They could try to reach those other cells, and we will find them another day in another terrorist action somewhere in Europe," Moniquet said.

Soon after the bombs went off in Brussels, French authorities renewed their arrest bulletin for Abrini. It said identifying features: unknown. Clothing: Unknown. Vehicle: Unknown.

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The Latest: Police say toddler death investigation not over

SPENCER, Ind. (AP)  The Latest on the disappearance and death of a 1-year-old Indiana girl (all times local):

2:45 p.m.

A state police spokesman says the investigation into the death of a 1-year-old Indiana girl isn't over despite charges being filed against a man who authorities say abducted her from her father's home and then raped and killed her.

Kyle Parker is seen in this undated photo provided by the Indiana State Police. Owen County prosecutors filed murder and other charges Monday, March 28, 2016, against 22-year-old Parker in a 1-year-old Indiana girl Shaylyn Ammerman's death. Charging documents say investigators questioned Parker after Shaylyn was reported missing Wednesday morning from the Spencer, Ind., home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived. The documents say Parker first denied involvement, but later directed police to the wooded location where her body was found Thursday night. (Indiana State Police via AP)

Sgt. Curt Durnil said Monday that the circumstances of Shaylyn (SHAY'-lynn) Ammerman's death remained under investigation. He says detectives could take several days or weeks to complete interviews and review of evidence, but that more arrests aren't expected Monday.

Durnil's comments follow the Owen County prosecutor's decision on Monday to file murder, rape, kidnapping and other charges against 22-year-old Kyle Parker of Spencer.

Court documents say Parker was drinking whiskey with Shaylyn's uncle and took the girl from the Spencer home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived after family members fell asleep.

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2 p.m.

A judge has ordered an Indiana man remain jailed without bond on charges that he raped and killed a 1-year-old girl after abducting her from her father's home.

An Owen County judge entered not guilty pleas for 22-year-old Kyle Parker of Spencer on murder, rape, kidnapping and other charges in Shaylyn (SHAY'-lynn) Ammerman's death. Parker appeared via video link from the county jail for his initial hearing Monday afternoon.

The judge appointed attorney Jacob Fish as Parker's public defender. A telephone message seeking comment was left at Fish's law office.

Court documents say Parker was drinking whiskey with Shaylyn's uncle and took the girl from the Spencer home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived after family members had fallen asleep.

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1 p.m.

Court documents accuse a man who was drinking alcohol with the uncle of a 1-year-old Indiana girl of abducting, raping and killing her after family members had fallen asleep in the home.

Owen County prosecutors filed murder and other charges Monday against 22-year-old Kyle Parker of Spencer in Shaylyn (SHAY'-lynn) Ammerman's death.

Charging documents say investigators questioned Parker after Shaylyn was reported missing Wednesday morning from the Spencer home where her father, uncle and grandmother lived. The documents say Parker first denied involvement, but later directed police to the wooded location where her body was found Thursday night.

An autopsy found Shaylyn suffered severe sexual trauma and died from asphyxiation.

Court records did not list a defense attorney for Parker ahead of his initial hearing Monday afternoon.

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11:05 a.m.

An Indiana prosecutor has filed murder, rape and kidnapping charges against a man who was arrested after the body of a 1-year-old girl was found two days after she disappeared from her father's home.

Online court records show formal charges were filed Monday against 22-year-old Kyle Parker in an Owen County court.

An initial hearing is scheduled for Monday afternoon. Court records did not list a defense attorney for Parker.

Parker was arrested after Shaylyn (SHAY'-lynn) Ammerman's body was found Thursday night in a remote area about 10 miles from her father's home in Spencer, where she was reported missing Wednesday morning.
North Korean nuclear threats spotlight US missile defense

WASHINGTON (AP)  As North Korea rattles its nuclear saber, threatening to bomb the U.S. at "any moment," a nerve-jangling question hangs in the air: If Pyongyang did launch a nuclear-armed missile at an American city, could the Pentagon's missile defenses overcome their spotty test record and shoot it down beyond U.S. shores?

America has never faced such a real-life crisis, and although officials say they are confident the defenses would work as advertised, the Pentagon acknowledges potential gaps that North Korea or others might be able to exploit, someday if not immediately.

One possible vulnerability involves a foe's "countermeasures," or decoys carried aboard long-range offensive missiles to fool a U.S. interceptor missile into hitting the wrong target.

This photo provided by the Defense Department's Missile Defense Agency, taken Jan. 28, 2016, shows a long-range ground-based interceptor is launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. As North Korea rattles its nuclear saber and threatens to bomb the U.S. at any moment, a nerve-jangling question hangs in the air: If North Korea did launch a nuclear-armed missile at an American city, could the Pentagons missile defenses shoot it down beyond U.S. shores? (Defense Department's Missile Defense Agency via AP)

The Pentagon has poured at least $84 billion into missile defense over the past decade and is planning to spend another $3.3 billion over the next five years for a single element of the system, known as Ground-based Midcourse Defense, or GMD. Its key part is a network of interceptor missiles designed to launch from underground silos, fly into the path of an enemy missile as it arcs through space and smash into it, destroying it.

That system has failed three of its last four intercept tests. The only success in that series was the most recent test, in June 2014.

A congressional watchdog agency, the Government Accountability Office, said in February that the Pentagon "has not demonstrated through flight testing that it can defend the U.S. homeland against the current missile defense threat."

Adm. William Gortney, America's homeland defender as head of U.S. Northern Command, told Congress this month that the nation needs "more capable forces and broader options." Key improvements are in the works, including a "long-range discrimination" radar for more effective tracking of incoming missiles.

The North Koreans' harsh rhetoric, including a threat in late February to deal "fatal blows at the U.S. mainland any moment," is linked in part to its anger at U.S.-South Korean military exercises, which the North sees as a rehearsal for an invasion.

No one is predicting a bolt-out-of-the-blue North Korean nuclear attack, but the threat looms larger as the Koreans seemingly stride closer to fielding a nuclear-armed missile that can reach U.S. territory. Already this year they have claimed a successful H-bomb test, put a satellite into space orbit and claimed a successful simulated test of the warhead re-entry knowhow needed for a missile strike on the United States. On Thursday, the North claimed to have successfully tested a solid-fuel rocket engine which, if true, would mark a significant further technological advance. The use of solid fuel reduces launch preparation time and thus shortens warning time for U.S. defenses.

More appears to be in store. State-run media reported earlier this month that leader Kim Jong Un ordered preparations for a "nuclear warhead explosion test" soon and test-firings of "several kinds of ballistic rockets able to carry nuclear warheads." With increasing regularity, the North Koreans are claiming major advances on the nuclear front that have caught Washington's attention, even if they are exaggerated.

President Barack Obama, who plans to address 50 heads of state gathered in Washington this week for a nuclear security summit, has said North Korea's pursuit of nuclear and missile programs "increasingly imperils the United States."

Of particular worry is a long-range missile under development in North Korea that the U.S. calls the KN-08. The Pentagon's most recent public report on North Korea says the KN-08 has a range of more than 3,400 miles, putting it into the category of an intercontinental ballistic missile, or ICBM.

Gortney said the KN-08 has "profound implications," especially if it is deployed as a road-mobile weapon, meaning it could be moved and launched from vehicles that make it less vulnerable to detection. Such mobility, he said, would enable the North Koreans to elude or confound traditional U.S. pre-launch warning systems.

Gortney says the North Koreans may have figured out how to make a nuclear warhead small enough to fit atop a KN-08 missile.

"While the KN-08 remains untested, modeling suggests it could deliver a nuclear (weapon) to much of the continental United States," Gortney told a Senate panel March 10.

The segment of U.S. missile defenses designed to stop a long-range North Korean missile are the interceptors based at Fort Greely, Alaska, and Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. Three years ago this month, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced that the Pentagon would increase the number of deployed interceptors to 44 by putting an extra 14 at Fort Greely. The price tag for that expansion, initially put at $1 billion, has jumped to $1.5 billion.

None of the extra 14 interceptors has been deployed yet but all are to be in place by the end of next year. Defense Secretary Ash Carter told a House committee last week that the Pentagon also is working on a more effective "kill vehicle," which is the 5-foot-long device attached to the top of an interceptor; its internal guidance system helps steer it into an oncoming missile, destroying it by force of impact.

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15 die in Guatemala bus crash

GUATEMALA CITY (AP)  At least 15 people have died and more are seriously injured after a bus crashed into a ravine in western Guatemala.

Municipal fire department spokesman Mario Utum said Monday's crash occurred near the township of Nahuala in the Solola department. It was unknown what caused the bus to plunge into the 150-foot chasm.

Utum said men, women and children were among the victims. The bus was bound for Guatemala City.
CBS anchor Scott Pelley to receive Walter Cronkite Award

PHOENIX (AP)  "CBS Evening News" anchor and managing editor Scott Pelley will receive the 2016 Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism from Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

The university announced Monday that Pelley will receive the award during a Nov. 21 luncheon in Phoenix. The newscast will be broadcast that day live from the Cronkite School on the university's downtown Phoenix campus.

Pelley said in a statement released by the university that he's humbled to receive the award because it's named after Cronkite, whom Pelley said he knew, admired and loved.

Cronkite School Dean Christopher Callahan said Pelley represents Cronkite's values of accuracy, objectivity and integrity.
Dominicans see LGBT rights advancing with gay US diplomat

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP)  Deivis Ventura is still just a candidate for the Dominican Republic's Chamber of Deputies, but he feels like he's already scored a victory.

The 42-year-old former private school teacher, the first openly gay person to run for his country's Congress, is delighted his campaign has not encountered overt hostility as it likely would have in the past.

"It's an important moment for our country," Ventura said one recent afternoon during a break from campaigning with a transgender friend. "The fact that we have openly LGBT candidates in an important political party speaks of change."

In this March 24, 2016 photo, Deivis Ventura, who's running for Congress, greets residents as he campaigns in the Herrera neighborhood of Santo Domingo Oeste, Dominican Republic. The 42-year-old former private school teacher is the first openly gay person to run for his countrys Congress. (AP Photo/Ezequiel Abiu Lopez)

Another openly gay man, Yimbert Telemin, is running in the May election for city council in La Romana, an area of famed beach resorts on the southeastern coast.

That they can run openly as homosexuals is the sign of a cultural shift that activists say has been helped by the presence of U.S. Ambassador James "Wally" Brewster, the first openly gay top diplomat the United States has posted to a Latin American country. Brewster's appointment angered some religious leaders and their followers in the Dominican Republic, but it was an important move for people who've long felt marginalized in the conservative Caribbean country.

"Wally has become an iconic figure in the LGBT movement because the movement does have strong local figures," said prominent activist Alexander Mundary.

Dr. Victor Terrero, director of the National Council on HIV and AIDS, noted that Brewster and his husband have been guests of President Danilo Medina and the ambassador has hosted many of the country's notable figures.

"The presence of the ambassador has contributed to the breaking of much of the stigma," Terrero said. "It has shown in a way that (homosexuality) is not a sin, nor is it something to get crazy about."

Representatives of U.S.-based Human Rights First said every person they met with before issuing a December report on the status of LGBT people in the Dominican Republic mentioned Brewster in their conversations.

"Everyone seemed to think, even if they had mixed feelings about it, that overall it was a net positive," said Shawn Gaylord, a lawyer for the group who works on LGBT issues. "The presence of Ambassador Brewster has really spurred a larger conversation."

The Dominican Republic does not have laws criminalizing homosexuality as numerous English-speaking Caribbean countries do. But the U.S. State Department said in its annual human rights report that non-governmental organizations who work with LGBT people in the country have reported widespread discrimination in health care, education, the justice system and employment. Ventura says he was dismissed from his teaching job when he came out as gay in 2008 and others tell similar stories.

The Human Rights First report said transgender people are vulnerable to violence in the country, with several dozen suspected hate-crime murders since 2006.

A bill that included an article prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation failed in the Congress amid opposition to a provision for sex education in primary school. Terrero is coordinating an effort to get a bill that would bar any form of discrimination, including based on sexual orientation, before lawmakers in the coming weeks.

"The Dominican LGBT population has woken up," said Telemin, a 36-year-old attorney and activist. "People aren't afraid now."

Earlier this month, about 20 businesses came together to form the first LGBT chamber of commerce, with support from USAID.

"Ten years ago we would never even talk about it," Francisco Castillo, the president of the new chamber, said of homosexuality. "It was shameful to even mention it, we preferred to avoid the subject."

Brewster was guest of honor at the chamber's March 2 inauguration ceremony, prompting a wave of angry denunciations. Fidel Lorenzo, a pastor and leader of an evangelical Christian organization, accused Brewster of trying to promote homosexuality and led efforts that collected more than 31,000 signatures for a petition calling on President Barack Obama to remove the ambassador. Catholic officials also denounced the American diplomat, temporarily putting up a sign at one school that said he could not enter.

The ambassador, who had been a prominent fundraiser for Obama, encountered similar condemnations starting weeks before his arrival in November 2013 with his husband, Bob Satawake. But the Medina government accepted his credentials and business has apparently carried on as normal between two countries that have long had warm relations.

The U.S. Embassy did not respond to a request by The Associated Press for an interview with the ambassador. Brewster dismissed his critics in a radio interview. "I think it's a small group," he said. "People who are just haters and want to marginalize others."

Ventura said he has encountered only signs of support so far. He is running in the party of the main opposition presidential candidate, Luis Abinader, and his chances of victory are uncertain in his busy, industrial district. But he is optimistic about both his prospects and those of the Dominican Republic. "The country keeps getting better in terms of human rights and I, as a gay man, can exercise my right to be a candidate," he said. "People are supporting me, and they are supporting my candidacy."

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Associated Press writer Ben Fox in Miami contributed to this report.

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This story corrects the spelling of Human Rights First lawyer's first name to Shawn.

In this March 15, 2016 photo, a sign hangs at a Catholic primary school with the message in Spanish: "The entry of Mr. U.S. Ambassador is not permitted at San Juan the Baptist Institute," in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The appointment of U.S. Ambassador James Wally Brewster, the first openly gay top diplomat the United States has posted to a Latin American country, angered some religious leaders and their followers. (AP Photo/Ezequiel Abiu Lopez)

In this March 24, 2016 photo, Deivis Ventura, who's running for Congress, speaks with a tailor about the upcoming general election as he campaigns in the Herrera neighborhood of Santo Domingo Oeste, Dominican Republic. Ventura, the first openly gay person to run for his countrys Congress, feels like hes already scored a victory. The fact that we have openly LGBT candidates in an important political party speaks of change, Ventura said. (AP Photo/Ezequiel Abiu Lopez)

FILE - In this June 30, 2013 file photo, people welcome U.S. Ambassador James "Wally" Brewster during a gay pride parade in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The signs read in Spanish "Welcome Mr. Ambassador James "Wally" Brewster," right, and "Identity space, equality zone." Activists say Brewster's presence has helped a cultural shift that has allowed gay Dominicans to run for office openly as homosexuals. Wally has become an iconic figure in the LGBT movement because the movement does have strong local figures, said prominent activist Alexander Mundary. (AP Photo/Ezequiel Abiu Lopez, File)
Maine asks Obama to rebuff ban on lobster exports to EU

PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  Maine's congressional delegation on Monday asked the Obama administration to resist efforts to ban the import of live Maine lobsters by European Union countries, saying the discovery of American lobsters in Swedish waters doesn't warrant such harsh measures.

"Since only a small number of Maine lobsters have been found in foreign waters, we believe regulators should take a more finely tuned approach before calling this an 'invasion,'" Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King and Reps. Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin wrote in the letter.

Sweden asked the EU this month to list American lobster as a "foreign species," which would prohibit imports of live American lobsters into the 28-nation bloc.

All told, Sweden said more than 30 American lobsters have been found in its coastal waters in recent years. Sweden contends the American lobsters could wipe out their European cousins through interbreeding and the introduction of diseases.

The Maine delegation said lobsters represent the state's biggest export to Europe, with an annual value of about $196 million.

In their letter, the Maine lawmakers said trade restrictions must be based on scientific principles and supported by scientific evidence. "Moreover, such measures may not be disguised restrictions on international trade," they wrote.
UN discusses role of women in conflict resolution in Africa

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  Paleki Ayang of South Sudan remembers clearly the night in 2013 when war came to her country. The sound of artillery and the image of bullet holes that riddled her home are etched in her memory. Luckily, she recalled Monday, she was able to load her family into a car and drive to the Ugandan border and to safety.

But Ayang later returned home, forming the South Sudan Women's Empowerment Network, a broad spectrum of women who are working to present peaceful solutions to the conflict. As a March 31 deadline approaches for parties to report on how they are implementing a 2015 peace agreement, she said women must be involved in monitoring and implementing the accord.

"I have seen firsthand the power women have in preventing and resolving conflict in my own country," said Ayang, who spoke as the U.N. Security Council discussed the role that women play in conflict prevention and resolution in Africa.

South Sudan, a young country not even five years old, descended into violence in December 2013 when a fight among security forces in the capital, Juba, boiled over into a rebellion. A peace agreement was signed in August, but there have since been clashes between government forces and rebels. Both sides have been accused of serious rights abuses against civilians, including rape. Tens of thousands of people have been killed, according to the U.N.

Amid the turmoil, Ayang said South Sudanese women have worked together. She pointed to one instance in which an ethnic Dinka woman joined with a rival Nuer to start a group in which women from both tribes met to discuss how to de-escalate tensions.

"While the men wanted to fight over their tribal differences, women bridged the divide and reduced the tension within the community," she said.

Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the head of UN Women, said there are numerous examples of how women are preventing conflict on the African continent. She called on the Security Council to provide political and financial support for the issue and demand gender analysis in all reports that it receives regarding atrocity prevention efforts.

A U.N. report this month described sweeping crimes in South Sudan, including fighters being allowed to rape women as payment. Ayang called on the Security Council to hold accountable any warring parties, armed groups and security forces who commit sexual violence against women. She also recommended that that justice and reconciliation efforts include women.
A guide to the Great Plains wildfire

MEDICINE LODGE, Kan. (AP)  Fire crews continue to monitor a massive wildfire that's scorched hundreds of square miles in a sparsely populated part of southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma. Here's a look at where the fight against the fire stands, what's been done to control it and the damage done.

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WHERE IT'S BURNING

Charred prairies are seen Thursday, March 24, 2016 near Medicine Lodge, Kan. as smoke rises in the distance from the continuing burning fire. The fire that started Tuesday in Oklahoma has now burnt near 400, 000 acres in Kansas and Oklahoma. (Andrew Whitaker/The Hutchinson News via AP)

Hundreds of square miles of land have been touched by the fire, which started last week in Oklahoma before spreading into rural southern Kansas.

Oklahoma Forestry Services said Monday a plane equipped with multiple GPS units estimated the total burn area at 574 square miles. The agency earlier estimated the size of the fire at 620 square miles.

The Kansas Forest Service says about 420 square miles of that fire was in Barber County, Kansas  the largest such fire in the state's history.

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CONTAINMENT EFFORTS

Overall, about 90 percent of the fire was contained, meaning it was being held within designated boundaries, by Sunday. In Barber County, it was slightly less contained, at 81 percent, the forest service said. Crews were to continue patrolling the fire areas Monday and Tuesday.

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WEATHER WORRIES

Warmer, drier conditions that hit the fire area Monday were expected to continue Tuesday and Wednesday, which the forest service says will present significant to extreme fire weather risk. Forecasts also called for gusty winds in the region.

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TRAIL OF DESTRUCTION

The Kansas Adjutant General's Office said the fire destroyed at least nine Barber County homes, and that three bridges and one railroad trestle were either damaged or destroyed.

The fire zone is home to thousands of cattle, with the latest estimate by the National Agricultural Statistics Service showing more than 47,000 head of cattle in Barber County in early 2015 and another 35,500 in neighboring Comanche County, which was also affected by the fire.

Authorities haven't given official estimates on the number of livestock that perished or that had to be euthanized due to the fire, and Kansas Department of Agriculture says that might take several days. County emergency management boards are working to determine agricultural-related losses, which will include feed, livestock and barns.

A positive note: No serious injuries to residents have been reported.

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WHAT CAUSED IT?

Oklahoma authorities said Monday they were continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.

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HELPING HANDS  AND CLOUDS

Rain and snow helped fire crews in Barber County over the weekend, as did four UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters from the Kansas National Guard. The helicopters, which dumped thousands of gallons of water on the fire Saturday, were able to identify any hard-to-reach areas that had reignited.

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COST OF THE FIRE

There is no cost estimate yet for the damage in Kansas, according to the Kansas Adjutant General's office.

In Barber County, attorney Gaten Wood told The Wichita Eagle that authorities had spent more than $1 million on resources from outside fire departments and the use of the helicopters.

A tree erupts in flames as the grass fire continues to burn east of Lake City, Kan., Wednesday, March 23, 2016. A large grass fire burnt thousands of acres in Barber County. (Travis Morisse/The Hutchinson News via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT
Avon avoids proxy fight with investors over board members

NEW YORK (AP)  Avon agreed to make changes to its board Monday in order to avoid a proxy fight with some of its shareholders who collectively own more than a 3 percent stake in the company.

Shares of the beauty products company soared Monday afternoon.

Under the terms of the agreement, Avon will allow an investor group led by Barington Capital Group to approve an independent board member. In exchange, the group agreed to withdraw its nominations for the board and will vote for the company's nominees.

Avon announced separately Monday that it named former FedEx Corp. executive Cathy Ross to its board. Ross was the chief financial officer of FedEx's express shipping business until 2014, when she retired.

Avon, which has struggled with falling sales, recently announced plans to sell a majority stake in its North America business to private investment firm Cerberus Capital Management. Cerberus also bought a stake in the parent company. Last week, Avon said it would cut 2,500 jobs and move its headquarters from New York to Great Britain.

James A. Mitarotonda, chairman and chief executive of Barington, said that he was pleased with the agreement. "We spent time with Avon's management team and members of the board discussing our strategic and operational suggestions, and we are confident that Avon is taking the necessary actions to improve the long-term performance of the company," he said in a statement.
4-year-old boy killed by stray bullet in Rio de Janeiro

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  The family of a 4-year-old boy said Monday that he was struck and killed by stray bullet while playing outside in Rio de Janeiro.

Rian Gabriel was hit in the chest on Easter Sunday outside his grandparents' home in the Madureira neighborhood. The boy was taken to a hospital, but his family told television crews that he died.

Police said in a statement that they didn't conduct operations in that area Sunday because of a firefight. Shootouts are common in the neighborhood, where rival drug gangs are fighting for control.

The police statement said a teenage girl was also shot Sunday in Madureira. News reports said she was hit in the leg.
As Pakistan mourns, prime minister vows to defeat militants

LAHORE, Pakistan (AP)  In an emotional televised address, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif vowed Monday to hunt down and defeat the militants who have been carrying out attacks like the Easter bombing that targeted Christians and killed 72 people.

"We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan," Sharif said. "This is our resolve. This is the resolve of the 200 million people of Pakistan."

As the country began three days of mourning after Sunday' suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore in a park crowded with families, Sharif said the army would forge ahead with a military operation on extremist hideouts and police will go after what he called the "cowards" who carried out the attack.

In this photo released by Press Information Department, Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif talks to an injured victim of Sunday's suicide bombing during his visit to a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Pakistans prime minister on Monday vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the massive suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter the previous day in the eastern city of Lahore, killing 70 people. (AP Photo/Press Information Department via AP)

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a breakaway Taliban faction that supports the Islamic State group, claimed responsibility and said it specifically targeted Christians.

But most of those killed were Muslims who also had been in the popular park for the holiday. Many women and children were among the victims, and dozens of families held tearful funerals Monday for their slain relatives. At least 300 people were wounded.

Sharif, who canceled a visit to the United States to attend a nuclear summit, also warned extremists against using Islam to justify their violence in the overwhelmingly Muslim nation.

Pakistan has suffered a series of attacks in recent months, and Sharif said militants are hitting "soft targets" like playgrounds and schools because military and police operations are putting pressure on their operations.

Sharif met with security officials earlier in the day, and raids and dozens of arrests were carried out in eastern Punjab province, where several militant organizations are headquartered.

The prime minister also visited hospitals in Lahore where many of the injured were being treated. Sharif was born in the city, which is also the capital of Punjab province, his power base.

"It strengthened my resolve when I met the wounded people," he said in his address. "God willing, I will not sit idle until I bring smiles back on their faces."

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a government offensive and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis decried what he called the vile and abominable bombing against Christians and urged Pakistani authorities to "make every effort to restore security and serenity" in the country, particularly for religious minorities.

In Pakistan's capital of Islamabad, Islamic extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings, demanding that authorities impose Sharia law. The army deployed paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

The leader of the protesters, Sarwat Ejaz Qadri told a local TV channel they would stay1 outside Parliament "until our demands are met." Hundreds were hunkered down for a long stay, chanting prayers, occasionally raising anti-government slogans and brandishing long sticks.

They were protesting the hanging last month of policeman Mumtaz Qadri. He was convicted for the 2011 murder of Gov. Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had also criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced draft legislation in Punjab province that outlaws violence against women.

Earlier this month, Sharif had officially recognized holidays celebrated by Pakistan's minority religions, including Easter and the Hindu festival of Holi.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told The Associated Press that along with striking at Christians celebrating Easter, the bombing also was meant to protest military operations in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year.

But of the 72 dead from Sunday's attack, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, said Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. The rest have not been identified.

Shama Pervez, a widow who lost her 11-year-old son Sahil in the bombing, was inconsolable at his funeral. A fifth-grader at a Catholic school, he had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

In the Christian area of Youhanabad on the outskirts of Lahore, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children?" asked Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of Sunday's victims.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed in the park, and all were Muslims. His 10-year-old nephew, Fahad Ali, lay wounded in a bed at home. He had lost his parents and a sister, and another two sisters also were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything to continue at school!" he cried.

Forensic experts searched debris in the park. The bomb had been a crude device loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the victims for maximum damage, said counterterrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, a known militant recruiter.

Nobel peace prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, herself a survivor of a Taliban shooting, said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

White House spokesman Josh Earnest called the bombing "grotesque."

"The fact that you have an extremist organization targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," he said, also noting the high number of Muslims among the victims.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said targeting a park filled with children "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" with Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

Zahid Hussain, an expert on Pakistani militants, said the violence was a show of strength by religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

Pakistan's military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The army says the operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has killed more than 3,000 militants. In December 2014, the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in northwestern city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Hussain said the government has sent mixed signals to Islamic extremists. On one hand, it has allowed banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches. At the same time, it has hanged convicts like Qadri and promised to tackle honor killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," Hussain said. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say no to extremism once and for all."

Army chief Gen. Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage nonhumans to overrun our life and liberty."

Punjab's government said it will give about $3,000 in compensation to the seriously wounded and $1,500 to those with minor injuries from the bombing.

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Gannon reported from Islamabad. Associated Press writers Asif Shahzad and Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Asim Tanveer in Multan contributed to this report.

Women try to comfort a mother who lost her son in bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

People carry the coffin of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Eric John, bottom, who survived Sunday's attack, cries during the funeral of his cousin killed, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Pakistani Christian women mourn during the funeral service of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a suicide bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn the death of Sharmoon who was killed in a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

A Pakistani Christian mother looks at her son as she hold her daughter during his funeral in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn during the funeral service of Sahil Pervez who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani Christian family mourn the death of Sharmoon who was killed in a bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

Women mourn the death of a Christian boy who was killed in a suicide bombing, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

People prepare to burry the body of Christian man killed in bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani Christian mother holds her injured child who survived Sunday's bombing attack, in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani police commandos and security personnel cordon off the area of last night's bombing at an amusement park in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

Pakistani Christian women mourn the deaths of their family members during a funeral service at a local church in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani injured man from a bomb blast talks on his cell phone at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (AP Photo/K.M. Chuadary)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek hold sit-in protest outside the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Pakistani police officers stand guard at the site of a bomb blast in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (AP Photo/K.M. Chuadary)

A Pakistani man walks past a burning truck set on fire by supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek during a march toward the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek hold sit-in protest outside the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek chant slogans during a sit-in protest near the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer, Muhammad Nasim, said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

The grandmother of Pakistani Christian boy Sahil Pervez, mourns his death, at a church in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose on Monday as the country started observing a three-day mourning period following the attack. (AP Photo/B.K. Bangash)

A Pakistani man, seen through shattered glass, looks at damages of a bus station after a march of supporters of a religious group towards the Parliament building turned violent in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

A cameraman films damages of a bus station after a march of supporters of a religious group towards the Parliament building turned violent in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Pakistani police officers stand guard on a road leading to the Parliament building, where supporters of a religious group are holding a sit-in, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest against the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds Sunday. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

People look at trucks burnt by supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek during a march toward the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, March 28, 2016. Thousands of demonstrators marched into the Pakistani capital to protest the hanging of Qadri, charged with murdering a secular governor. Police officer Muhammad Nasim said that the march of thousands people was peaceful initially, but as the crowds reached an avenue leading to parliament the protesters turned violent, smashing windows and damaging bus stations. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

Pakistani civil society activists rally to condemn Sunday's deadly suicide bombing in a park, Monday, March 28, 2016 in Lahore, Pakistan. Pakistan's prime minister on Monday vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the massive suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter the previous day in the eastern city of Lahore, killing at least 70 people. Placard at bottom left reads, "killings in the name of religion is unacceptable." (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)
Egypt retires 31 judges for opposing Islamist's ouster

CAIRO (AP)  Egypt's state-run news agency says the top judicial disciplinary council has rejected appeals by 31 judges who were forced into early retirement for rejecting the military overthrow of an Islamist president.

MENA said Monday that the judges are members of the "Judges for Egypt" movement, which opposed the military overthrow of President Mohammed Morsi, who hails from the Muslim Brotherhood. The group is accused of having violated impartiality rules by getting involved in politics.

President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi led the military overthrow of Morsi in July 2013.
Cris "Cyborg" Justino finally signs with UFC, books May bout

LOS ANGELES (AP)  Veteran mixed martial arts champion Cris "Cyborg" Justino will make her UFC debut in her native Brazil in May.

The UFC announced the deal Monday, booking Justino to meet Leslie Smith in a 140-pound catchweight bout at UFC 198.

Justino (15-1) has long been considered one of the top fighters in the women's sport. She has a 15-fight winning streak since her debut in 2005, stopping nine consecutive opponents and winning titles in the Strikeforce and Invicta promotions.

Justino was a long-rumored opponent for former UFC bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, but Justino had expressed concerns about making the 135-pound limit. Rousey's loss to Holly Holm last year derailed the discussion.
The US Geological Survey warned Alaska's Pavlof Volcano could erupt again despite confirming that its activity level had 'declined significantly'.

The volcano on the Alaska Peninsula erupted at around 4pm on Sunday afternoon and sent a cloud of ash 20,000 feet into the air - disrupting a number of flights.

Late last night the agency confirmed the volcano had settled and the alert level was downgraded from warning - the highest level which warns of hazards in the air and on the ground - to watch.

Pavlof Volcano erupted on Sunday afternoon (pictured) and sent ash more than 400 miles into interior Alaska

On Monday morning the ash cloud had risen to 37,000 feet with lightning over the mountain and pressure sensors indicating eruptions continued overnight Sunday.

By 7am yesterday the ash had risen to 37,000 feet and 50 mph winds had stretched the cloud more than 400 miles into interior Alaska.

Alaska Airlines was forced to cancel flights because of the massive cloud of volcanic ash that spewed into the air.

By the afternoon 41 flights involving six Alaska cities were cancelled until the Seattle-based airline could evaluate weather reports.

The cancellations included all flights to and from Fairbanks as well as flights to Barrow, Bethel, Kotzebue, Nome and Deadhorse.

The US Geological Survey confirmed the activity level of Alaska's Pavlof Volcano has 'declined significantly' following the eruption on Sunday

The airliner said that 3,300 passengers were affected as a result of the ash, which can cause jet engines to shut down.

Spokeswoman Bobbie Egan said Alaska Airlines simply doesn't fly when ash is present and would continue to monitor the trajectory of the ash cloud.

The US Geological Survey said that the activity decline began around noon yesterday and that by last night a continuous emission was no longer being observed by satellite.

But Geologist Chris Waythomas warned Pavlof could erupt for hours to days or intermittently for longer periods of time.

The National Weather Service previously issued a weather bulletin to warn Alaskan residents living in the region of the Pavlof Volcano.

Alaska Airlines was forced to cancel flights because of the massive cloud of ash that spewed from the volcano and into the air

The bullet, which was in effect early last night for Cold Bay, Sand Point and Nelson Lagoon, explained that ash could fall on the communities if the wind direction shifted as expected.

Volcanic ash is angular and sharp and can injure skin, eyes and breathing passages. The ash can also damage electronic devices and vehicle engines.

Pavlof Volcano is 625 miles southwest of Anchorage on the Alaska Peninsula, the finger of land that sticks out from mainland Alaska toward the Aleutian Islands.

The USGS says that during a previous eruption in 2013, ash plumes rose 27,000 feet. Other eruptions have generated ash plumes as high as 49,000 feet.
Fitch lowers Chicago credit rating to 1 step above junk

CHICAGO (AP)  Chicago's credit rating has been downgraded to one step above junk grade by Fitch Ratings after the Illinois Supreme Court struck down Mayor Rahm Emanuel's reform plan for two city pensions.

Fitch lowered Chicago's rating from BBB+ to BBB- on Monday, increasing the cost of borrowing.

Fitch said it believes Thursday's ruling "was among the worst of the possible outcomes for the city's credit quality" and made clear the city's "responsibility to fund the promised pension benefits."

It said the rating could stabilize at BBB- if the city presents "a realistic plan that puts the pension funds on an affordable path toward solvency."
El Salvador police chief rejects apparent gang offer

SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador (AP)  El Salvador's government will not negotiate with powerful street gangs following an anonymous offer to stop crime-related bloodshed afflicting this Central American country, the head of national police said Monday.

"There is no negotiation of any kind with any criminal structure," police commissioner Howard Cotto said at a news conference. "Our job is to prevent and combat crime, that is what we do and that is what we are going to continue doing."

Cotto's comments came in response to a video circulated over the weekend in which three masked men saying they represented the country's three major gangs said they had ordered a stop to killings. They asked the government in exchange not to institute measures being considered to combat them.

FILE - In this Aug. 31, 2015 file photo, soldiers guard a corner in a gang-controlled neighborhood in Ilopango, El Salvador. A video broadcast by local media on Saturday, March 26, 2016, purportedly made by the countrys main street gangs, is offering an end to killings, and asks the government not to continue an anti-gang offensive. Officials said they would not negotiate with the gangs. (AP Photo/Salvador Melendez, File)

"We have ordered all of our people ... to halt all types of homicides nationwide to demonstrate to the public, the government and international agencies in our country that there is no need to implement measures that only violate our constitution," one of the masked men said.

Presidential spokesman Eugenio Chicas said Sunday through his Twitter account that the government would not let up in its pursuit of the gangs.

"This administration will not grant any truce in the fight against criminals, and will apply the necessary measures to protect the population," Chicas said.

According to official statistics, at least 6,657 people were killed last year in El Salvador. The overall annual homicide rate last year was around 103 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Controversy over teen's win in Stawell Gift

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  A 15-year-old girl who won Australia's oldest and richest short-distance running race Monday has been fined $2,000 from her $40,000 winning purse by officials who say she improved more in two weeks than most athletes achieve in a lifetime.

Talia Martin won the Stawell Gift, a 120 meter handicap race contested annually at Easter since 1878 on a grass track in the small town of Stawell in Victoria state. In a staggered start, runners are handicapped up to 10 meters according to their recent form.

The handicap system is designed to reward runners who "rise to the occasion," generally by performing below their best in the leadup to secure a favorable handicap.
Belgian police release man arrested after Brussels attacks over lack of evidence

The only man arrested and charged with involvement in the Brussels attacks has been released because of a lack of evidence.

The man, named officially only as Faycal C but identified in media reports as Faycal Cheffou, walked free after a judge found there was not the evidence to justify holding him.

Belgian prosecutors had said he was facing charges of "involvement in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder".

Floral tributes and candles left in the Place de la Bourse, Brussels, following the terrorist attacks in the city

It had been reported that Cheffou was the "man in white" wearing a black hat and pictured pushing a trolley through Brussels airport with suicide bombers Brahim El-Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui shortly before the blasts.

But police on Monday released airport surveillance video of the man and asked for the public's help in establishing his identity - suggesting they still do not know who he is.

The website of Belgium's Federal Police on Monday began carrying a 32-second video of a mysterious man in a hat suspected of having taking part in the March 22 bombing of Brussels Airport, and stated: "The police are seeking to identify this man."

Some 35 people were killed and many more injured in the terror attacks at the airport and Maalbeek Metro station.

His release comes after Donald Trump said Britain and Europe are "not safe places" following the recent terror attacks.

The US Republican presidential front-runner said Europe had lots of "very, very severe" problems and added that he did not even think America was a safe place for Americans.

Mr Trump told ABC: "I don't think Bruss - England or I don't think that Europe is a safe place. No, I don't. I think there are a lot of problems in Europe that are very, very severe.

"When you look at Brussels, when you look at the way they've handled things from law enforcement standpoints, when you look at Paris, when you look at so many other places, no, it's not (safe)".

The comments made by the billionaire businessman were echoed by John Kerry, the US secretary of state, who told CBS's Face The Nation that US citizens should "avoid a crowded place" if they were travelling to Europe, because "you have no control over who may be there".
Pledge to boost GP numbers by 5,000 'wholly unrealistic'

The Government's pledge to increase the number of GPs by 5,000 by 2020 is "wholly unrealistic", medics have said.

Fresh analysis conducted by GP magazine Pulse has concluded that the family doctor workforce will increase by 2,100 " in the best case scenario".

At the current rate, there will be around 12,800 GPs entering the system by 2020, Pulse said. But thousands of doctors are planning to move abroad or retire.

The Government is aiming to recruit thousands more GPs

The magazine said that around 700 GPs are applying for certificates to work abroad every year - so over five years this could lead to 3,500 GPs leaving British practices .

And around 7,200 plan to retire over five years, it said, after extrapolating figures from the NHS Business Authority which show that around 1,400 GPs in England retired in 2014.

"The political pledge to recruit 5,000 GPs by 2020 is wholly unrealistic," said Dr Krishna Kasaraneni, chairman of the British Medical Association's (BMA) General Practitioners Committee subcommittee on education, training and workforce.

He told the magazine: " Pulse's data analysis shows how short we are likely to be.

"We actually need a lot more GPs than this arbitrarily chosen figure to maintain a basic level of service to patients.

"With 600 GP trainee posts left unfilled last year and large sections of the workforce telling the BMA they intend to retire, there is little chance the Government will get anywhere near this target."

But a Department of Health spokesman told the magazine: "Pulse's figures don't take the whole picture into account. NHS England and Health Education England are working closely with the BMA and RCGP on a 10-point plan which sets out exactly how we will achieve this. We have been clear that our target includes registrars."
Send in the archaeologists to help restore Palmyra - Boris Johnson

Britain should send top archaeologists to help restore the ancient city of Palmyra - after Vladimir Putin exposed the West's "ineffective" response to the Syria crisis by helping liberate it from Islamic State, Boris Johnson has said.

The Mayor of London said the Russian president deserved credit for showing "ruthless clarity" in providing Bashar Assad's regime with military backing, reportedly including troops on the ground.

"If Putin's troops have helped winkle the maniacs from Palmyra, then (it pains me to admit) that is very much to the credit of the Russians," he wrote in his Daily Telegraph column.

Boris Johnson has suggested sending in the archaeologists to help restore Palmyra

"They have made the West look relatively ineffective; and so now is the time for us to make amends, and to play to our strengths.

"We have some of the greatest archaeological experts in the world. I hope that the Government will soon be funding them to go to Syria and help the work of restoration.

"It is far cheaper than bombing and more likely to lead to long-term tourism and economic prosperity.

"One day Syria's future will be glorious; but that will partly depend on the world's ability to enjoy its glorious past. British experts should and will be at the forefront of the project."

The recapture by Syrian government forces of the city, known to Syrians as the "Bride of the Desert", represents a significant blow to IS - also known as Isil, Isis and Daesh,

Experts are set to begin assessing the scale of the damage done to the 2,000-year-old ruins, with many famous monuments known to have been destroyed.

Mr Johnson wrote that while the regime itself was "evil", "t he victory of Assad is a victory for archaeology, a victory for all those who care about the ancient monuments of one of the most amazing cultural sites on earth".

He said: "It is alas very hard to claim that the success of the Assad forces is a result of any particular British or indeed western policy.

"How could it be? We rightly loathe his regime and what it stands for, and for the last few years we have been engaged in an entirely honourable mission to build an opposition to Assad that was not composed simply of Daesh.

"That effort has not worked, not so far. It has been Putin who with a ruthless clarity has come to the defence of his client, and helped to turn the tide.

"If reports are to be believed, the Russians have not only been engaged in air strikes against Assad's opponents, but have been seen on the ground as well."

A replica of the destroyed gateway of the Temple of Bel is due to be raised in Trafalgar Square next month in a show of solidarity with Palmyra.
Union leaders in steel industry talks ahead of Tata board meeting

UK union leaders have held talks in India ahead of a crucial board meeting of steel giant Tata which could decide the fate of thousands of workers.

Officials from the Community union had "constructive" talks with senior company representatives in Mumbai, where the board will meet on Tuesday.

The future of thousands of UK steelworkers is at stake, especially at the Port Talbot plant in South Wales.

The Tata steel plant in Port Talbot, South Wales, bore the brunt of 1,000 job losses announced in January, and thousands more now face losing their jobs if Tata presses ahead with plans to shut down or sell of the plant

The site bore the brunt of 1,000 job losses announced in January but unless Tata presses ahead with a turnaround plan, the future of the huge plant could be in doubt.

A spokesman for Community said: "The delegation from Community led by Roy Rickhuss, general secretary, along with Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberavon, and Frits van Wieringen, chairman of the Tata Steel European Works Council, met in Mumbai with senior representatives of Tata Steel in advance of tomorrow's board meeting.

"The meeting was open and constructive. The European delegates made the case for Tata to continue to support the UK business.

"Tata Steel representatives outlined the context of commitment to the UK business to date, financial performance and the challenging global conditions of the steel sector."

More than 35,000 people have signed an open letter to Tata Steel's chairman Cyrus Mistry in support of the UK steelworkers.

Mr Rickhuss said: "No-one underestimates the scale of the challenge we are facing but our steel industry is of vital importance to our communities, our families and our nation.

"In Mumbai, I'll be standing up for the whole UK steel industry and asking Tata to give us the chance we need to succeed.

"Steel is the very foundation of our manufacturing base, even the Prime Minister has conceded that it would be simply unacceptable for Tata to end our steelmaking capacity."

Alan Coombs, chairman of the Port Talbot multi-union committee, who has any also travelled to Mumbai, said: "Our town was built on the steel industry.

"It has given us more than just jobs, it has shaped our lives and communities. On behalf of my town, my workmates and my industry, I will be asking Tata to back Port Talbot and the plan to save our steelworks."
Suspected U.S. air strikes in Yemen kill 14 militants - residents, medics

ADEN, March 27 (Reuters) - Air raids killed 14 men suspected of belonging to al Qaeda in southern Yemen on Sunday, medics and local residents said, in one of the largest U.S.-led assaults on the group since a civil war broke out a year ago.

The air strikes took place as fresh signs emerged that tensions were easing between the Iran-allied Houthis who control most of northern Yemen and Saudi-led forces after a year of fighting that has killed more than 6,200 people.

Residents in southern Yemen said an aircraft bombed buildings used by al Qaeda in the southern coastal Abyan province and destroyed a government intelligence headquarters in the provincial capital Zinjibar that the militants had captured and were using as a base. Medics said six people were killed.

Earlier on Sunday a suspected U.S. drone attack killed eight militants gathered in courtyards in the villages of al-Hudhn and Naqeel al-Hayala in Abyan, residents told Reuters by phone.

Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has taken advantage of a war pitting the Houthis against forces loyal to exiled President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi to seize territory and operate more openly.

The group has carried out attacks against the Yemeni state for years, plotted to blow up U.S.-bound airliners and claimed responsibility for the January 2015 attack in Paris on the French magazine Charlie Hebdo that killed 12 people.

The United States has kept up a drone campaign against the militants, although it evacuated the last of its military and intelligence personnel from Yemen in March last year. Its attacks have killed some of AQAP's top leaders, including its chief, Nasser al-Wuhayshi, who was struck by a drone in June.

Last week, U.S. war planes killed at least 50 people and wounded 30 more in an attack on an al Qaeda training camp in the mountains of southern Yemen.

Al Qaeda's local wing, known as Ansar al-Sharia, on Sunday acknowledged the March 22 attack, saying the recruits were being trained to fight Houthis who control most of northern Yemen.

"We note that the brigade which was struck by the Americans ... was preparing to join the mujahideen assigned to liberate al-Bayda province ... but it appears that the Americans and their agents were not pleased with that," the group said in a rare statement posted on Twitter.

A coalition led by Saudi-Arabia has been trying to shore up Hadi, who was ousted by the Houthis last year.

Al Qaeda militants, many of whom are drawn from Sunni tribes in south and eastern Yemen, have also been involved in the fighting against the Houthis, who hail from the Zaydi branch of Shi'ite Islam, regarded by al Qaeda as heretics.

The United States has acknowledged using drones but declines to comment on specific attacks.

The United Nations, trying to build on a lull in fighting along the Saudi-Yemeni border, said this week that the warring parties had agreed to a cessation of hostilities starting at midnight on April 10 followed by peace talks in Kuwait from April 18 as part of a fresh push to end the crisis following two rounds of failed talks last year.

The border truce came about after a prisoner swap between Saudi Arabia and the Houthis.

In a further sign of the easing of tensions between the two sides, a Houthi spokesman, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, said on Sunday that his group had, for a second time, exchanged prisoners with Saudi Arabia.

"A first step of understanding and respect for the humanitarian aspect [of the conflict] was the exchange of prisoners today," Abdul-Salam said in a statement posted on Facebook, adding that nine Saudi soldiers had been freed for 100 of its members captured inside Yemen.
Spain's Abengoa wins backing from creditors to avoid bankruptcy

By Julien Toyer and Jose Elias Rodriguez

MADRID, March 27 (Reuters) - Spanish energy firm Abengoa has won the backing of around 75 percent of its creditors to restructure its high debt load and seek more time from a court for talks aimed at avoiding bankruptcy, according to a document seen by Reuters on Sunday.

The company, struggling under a 9.4 billion-euro ($10.5 billion) debt pile, is in pre-insolvency talks and would become Spain's largest ever bankruptcy if it failed to reach an agreement with lenders and bondholders.

Abengoa had until March 28 to win the backing of at least 60 percent of them and convince a Seville court to give the firm an additional seven months to reach the 75 percent creditor acceptance threshold for a wide-ranging debt restructuring plan.

"We have won the backing of 75 percent of financial creditors when we needed 60 percent to present a standstill agreement," said one of Abengoa's most-senior executives in an email sent on Sunday to other senior staff and which was seen by Reuters.

"Tomorrow at 0900 (0700 GMT) the agreement will be presented to the court in Seville," he also said.

Abengoa declined to comment.

Sources familiar with the talks had told Reuters earlier this week that more than 60 percent of creditors were expected to back a debt restructuring deal reached on March 9 by Abengoa and its main banks and bondholders.

Abengoa would also receive a new cash injection of 137 million euros to pay wages and providers, the sources added.

Under this deal, some creditors would lend up to 1.8 billion euros to the company over a period of five years, giving them the right to 55 percent of the restructured company.

Simultaneously, around 70 percent of existing debt would be swapped for equity, giving those other creditors the right to 35 percent of the company, Abengoa said.
The race against time that Belgium lost

By Alastair Macdonald

BRUSSELS, March 27 (Reuters) - When Brussels police caught Salah Abdeslam, suspected sole survivor of November's suicide assault on Paris, they knew they were in a race against time to stop a new Islamic State attack.

It was the afternoon of Friday, March 18, and one of Prime Minister Charles Michel's cabinet ministers tweeted "We got him!" after Europe's most wanted man was seized at a house in the capital's Molenbeek neighbourhood.

But Michel was worried, according to a government official who was present at the time. The premier raced to his crisis command centre from a European summit nearby.

Security forces had orders to increase vigilance but lacked intelligence to justify a citywide lockdown such as Michel imposed after the Paris attacks.

"Our first thought was that ... this will set off a ferocious response," the aide told Reuters, speaking on condition that he not be named.

Those fears were well founded. The suicide bombings of Brussels airport and a metro train that killed 28 bystanders laid bare the inability of the Belgian authorities to counter Islamic State militants, no matter how high the level of alert.

Missed connections, leads not followed and suspects let slip have exposed deficiencies in security services. They have also shown how Europe's Syrian-trained Islamist cells can react with deadly speed to events such as Abdeslam's arrest.

"It was a race against time," said Vincent Gilles, head of Belgium's main police trade union SLFP.

But with the intelligence service understaffed - by some estimates by about half the level for other rich European states - it was a race the authorities could not win.

YEAR ON ALERT

Belgium is, for its size, the biggest European supplier of foreign fighters in Syria. Islamic State has appealed to an alienated generation descended from mostly Moroccan immigrants of the 1960s.

Belgian authorities stepped up their searches for activists after January 2015. That month, days after the bloodshed at Paris magazine Charlie Hebdo, Belgian police foiled a plot in the town of Verviers that revealed an Islamic State campaign to send some of the 300 or more young Belgians who have fought in Syria back to Europe to strike on their native soil.

In Verviers, police killed two men who returned from Syria with Abdelhamid Abaaoud. Killed in a shootout in Paris days after the attacks there, he emerged as "the spider in the web", in the words of a Belgian minister, of an extensive network.

Yet though Belgian authorities questioned numerous contacts of Abaaoud, notably from his old Molenbeek neighbourhood, the trail went cold. Among those interrogated and released were Salah Abdeslam and his brother Brahim.

In the first half of 2015, Belgian courts convicted dozens of radical preachers and their followers for recruiting for Syria. But new cells were forming elsewhere.

Last summer, the Abdeslams, petty drug dealers who ran a Molenbeek bar, put together what Salah has since told interrogators was a logistical plan to prepare for the attacks on Paris. Salah drove across Europe more than once and appears to have transported quantities of guns, explosives and people.

It was with shock, after 130 people died on a Friday evening in the French capital and trails led back to Brussels, that Michel's government realised it had an urgent problem.

He locked down transport and public spaces for days as he was near "100 percent certain" of a threat.

At the centre of those fears was Salah Abdeslam, whose brother had blown himself up at a Paris cafe. Abdeslam had slipped back across the Belgian border ahead of a French dragnet. The morning after Paris, he went to ground in Brussels.

NEW RESOURCES, TOO LATE

Michel pledged cash and legal reforms to beef up a security system that officials accepted was understaffed.

An intelligence service of about 700 staff for a country of 11 million struggled to cope, as did a police force that is about 20 percent below full strength.

Police and security services have also struggled with a lack of communication and coordination across a multiplicity of departments that cross Belgium's Dutch-French language divide.

Two of Tuesday's suicide bombers - Najim Laachraoui and Khalid El Bakraoui - were on counter-terrorism watchlists. The former was a suspected bombmaker for the Paris attacks; the latter rented a safe house for the Paris cell and the flat where police picked up Abdeslam's trail.

Bakraoui's brother Brahim, was a convicted armed robber in breach of his parole who was expelled last July from Turkey. Ankara warned Belgium he had been caught trying to reach Syria.

In December, police in the town of Mechelen had a tip about a family sheltering Abdeslam. The tip included the address where he was eventually apprehended. But officials acknowledge the tip was never passed on to Brussels colleagues.

The revelation has led to criticism - strongly denied - that Mechelen's town hall might prefer to suppress a tip to avoid irritating local Muslims, a key electoral constituency.

In their four-month search for Abdeslam, police pulled in dozens of people, holding 10 by last month.

Dozens of homes were raided to no avail.

Police reject suggestions it was chance that led them to a house in the Brussels borough of Forest on March 15. Four officers were wounded in a shootout before one gunman was killed. The apartment, rented under a false name by Khalid El Bakraoui, the Brussels metro bomber, yielded a fingerprint belonging to Salah Abdeslam. Police homed in on a cellphone he was using, leading to his capture three days later.

THREE DAYS OF FEAR

Over the three and half days following that arrest, the government considered locking down Brussels but decided against it because they had no clear clues that an attack was in the offing, the government official said.

When the bombers struck at the morning rush hour on Tuesday, the authorities tried to moved fast.

A taxi driver who took the bombers to the airport led police to the apartment where he had picked them up. That produced a evidence including chemicals and another bomb.

One report said the bombers left it behind after a confused taxi dispatcher sent a smaller cab than they ordered. It also produced a witness who, investigators say, has since identified a third man seen on airport cameras with the two bombers.

Police have been rolling up contacts and acquaintances of those identified, including another suspected plotter in Paris.

Michel's government is also cracking down on fake documents which seem to have allowed the likes of Laachraoui and Abaaoud, to slip across Europe from Syria.

The government has sought new legal powers over, and in cooperation with, Internet and telecoms firms to track suspects.

But officials caution that it could take years to fill the gaps in the security structures of a country that is host to the European Union and NATO.
Trump questions NATO, Asia nuclear weapons ahead of Washington summit

By Toni Clarke

WASHINGTON, March 28 (Reuters) - U.S. Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday doubled down on his criticism of NATO, a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy for decades, and called for the alliance's overhaul days before world leaders convene in Washington.

President Barack Obama will host the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday with 56 delegations in attendance. While preventing nuclear terrorism will headline the discussions, Trump's views could be a topic as well, particularly behind the scenes.

In another sharp departure from historic U.S. policy, Trump said in an interview published on Sunday by The New York Times that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons, rather than rely on America for protection against North Korea and China.

The billionaire businessman, vying to win his party's nomination for the Nov. 8 presidential election, also said he might halt U.S. purchases of oil from Saudi Arabia and other Arab allies unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so.

"NATO is obsolete," Trump said on ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

The 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era, Trump said, when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. It was ill-suited to fighting terrorism and cost the United States too much, he added.

"We should readjust NATO ... it can be trimmed up and it can be, uh, it can be reconfigured and you can call it NATO, but it's going to be changed," he said.

On March 21, Trump said the United States should slash its financial support for NATO, which was formed in 1949 after World War Two and became a bulwark against Soviet expansionism.

Russia will not attend the upcoming nuclear summit, but Chinese President Xi Jinping will.

Obama said the United States would review international efforts to combat Islamic State in the wake of the Brussels attacks.

Trump's chief rival for the Republican nomination, Texas Senator Ted Cruz, called the real estate mogul's views on NATO "catastrophically foolish." Speaking on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace, Cruz said Trump was "out of his depth."

"Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all," Cruz said. "It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS," the militant group also known as Islamic State.

Cruz said if he were elected president, his approach to Islamic State would be to "carpet bomb them into oblivion."

In the interview, Trump also said he would be willing to withdraw U.S. troops from Japan and South Korea unless the two countries paid more to house and feed them. Japan hosts about 50,000 U.S. troops, while 28,500 are in South Korea.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo on Monday that there had been "no change" to Japan's policy of not building, possessing or introducing nuclear weapons, and reiterated that no matter who became U.S. president, the U.S.-Japan alliance would remain the core of Japan's diplomacy and vital for regional and world stability.

South Korea said it had continued to play a positive role in the U.S. military's presence in the country and for the allies' ability to defend against the North and there was no change to its commitment to the mutual defense treaty establishing their military partnership.
PRESS DIGEST - Bulgaria - March 28

SOFIA, March 28 (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.

- Bulgaria's Prime Minister Boiko Borisov backed the plans that the Balkan country should be ready to build a light fence along the border with Greece to prevent refugee influx and protect its border. (Monitor, Telegraph, Sega)

- A former police officer with a medical record has barricaded himself in his home after firing shots at his daughter. The man has fired at police negotiating teams before surrendering 22 hours later. (Telegraph, Monitor)

STANDART - Spanish and German investors are showing interest to take Sofia airport on concession, sources familiar with the situation said. The government is expected to open a tender procedure for a 35-year concession this spring.
PRESS DIGEST - RUSSIA - March 28

MOSCOW, March 28 (Reuters) - The following are some of the leading stories in Russia's newspapers on Monday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

VEDOMOSTI

www.vedomosti.ru

- Russia's government will spend some 150 billion roubles ($2.2 billion) in 2016 to support state bank VEB, the paper writes.

- Russia is increasing its military presence on the Kurile Islands, will deploy missile systems and possibly establish a naval base there, the daily cites Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu as saying.

- Russia's GDP shrank by some 1.5 percent in February year-on-year, compared to a 3.4 percent fall in January, the paper writes.

KOMMERSANT

www.kommersant.ru

- A mistake of the first pilot and his conflict with the second pilot that might follow may have caused the crash of a Boeing passenger jet in Russia's Rostov-on-Don this month, the paper writes.

- Russian tourists opt for alternative holiday destinations, including former Soviet republics. The number of early bookings of tours to Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan rose by 50 percent so far this year compared to 2015, the paper writes citing experts.

NEZAVISIMAYA GAZETA

www.ng.ru

- Russians believe that an "adequate" pension must be three times higher than the currently paid one, the paper writes citing a recent poll by job search portal Superjob.

RBK

www.rbcdaily.ru

- A company linked to Lukoil bought some 36.4 hectares of state lands in Crimea, the paper writes.
Belgium frees charged suspect in blow to bombing investigation

By Barbara Lewis

BRUSSELS, March 28 (Reuters) - Belgian prosecutors on Monday released a man they had charged in connection with last week's deadly Brussels bombings, saying they did not have enough information to justify holding him.

The man, named only as Faycal C., had been accused of taking part in the activities of a terrorist group and actual and attempted terrorist murder after being detained on Thursday. His home had been searched but no weapons or explosives had been found.

"The evidence which led to the arrest of the man named as Faycal C has not been backed up by the ongoing investigation. As a result, the person has been freed by the investigating magistrate," the prosecutor's office said.

The announcement was a major blow to an investigation that had netted half a dozen people charged with lesser offences in Belgium and others in the Netherlands, Italy and France, where officials said the same network had planned another attack.

Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou and a source close to the investigation had said officials believed he was the man caught in security camera footage at Brussels airport moments before two bombs exploded last Tuesday.

Earlier on Monday, police had issued a new appeal for witnesses, saying they were seeking to identify the man seen in the video wearing a light jacket, with a hat pulled down over his face and glasses. The suspected suicide bombers walking alongside him were dressed in black with their heads uncovered.

Police say one man left a suitcase containing a bomb at the terminal and fled while two others detonated their bombs.

The death toll from the attack on the airport, and a subsequent bombing of a rush-hour metro train, rose to 35 on Monday, excluding the three men who blew themselves up.

Around 340 people were wounded and 96 were still being treated in hospital, of whom 55 were in intensive care, a health ministry statement said.

A Europe-wide hunt for suspects has revealed links with the network that killed 130 people in Paris last November, as well as foiling a new potential attack on France last week, officials said. But several suspects are reported to be still at large.

OTHERS AT LARGE

Islamic State has claimed responsibility for both the Paris and Brussels attacks. These have exposed weaknesses within intelligence services in Belgium, where some of the Paris attackers lived, as well as insufficient cooperation between security services across Europe.

In Washington, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said the United States had urged European officials to do a better job of sharing intelligence after the Paris attacks late last year.

"There has been some progress made with regard to that intelligence sharing, but there is surely more that can and must be done," Earnest said at a press briefing.

Dutch anti-terrorism police arrested a 32-year-old suspect on Sunday in Rotterdam on France's request, and Italy arrested an Algerian on Saturday suspected of having forged documents for militants linked to the Brussels and Paris attacks.

Germany has also conducted raids but its Federal Criminal Police Office was among European security agencies still hunting for at least eight mostly French or Belgian suspects on the run in Syria or Europe, Die Welt am Sonntag newspaper said.

The U.S. State Department confirmed four U.S. citizens were among victims of nine different nationalities, including Belgian.

Belgian Health Minister Maggie De Block said more of those wounded in the attacks had since died. "Four patients died in hospital. Medical teams did everything possible. Total victims: 35," she said in a tweet.

Other foreigners killed were British, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian and Swedish.

The airport in Brussels remained closed on Monday and the metro was running a reduced service in the capital, which was largely shuttered for the Easter holiday.

There was no sign of the nationalist protesters who clashed with police on Sunday at the Brussels bourse, where mourners have gathered and placed candles, wreaths and messages for victims.

The State Department has declined to name any of the four U.S. citizens killed, citing respect for their families.

Two of them were identified by relatives as Justin and Stephanie Shults, residents of Belgium originally from Tennessee and Kentucky who were last seen dropping off her mother at the Brussels airport before the explosion in the check-in area.

"The world lost two amazing people," Justin Shults' brother, Levi Sutton, said in a post on Twitter.
More than 5,000 Kurdish militants killed since July - Turkey's Erdogan

By Seyhmus Cakan

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, March 28 (Reuters) - Turkish security forces have killed more than 5,000 militants belonging to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) since its ceasefire with the Turkish state collapsed last July, President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday.

The figure would suggest a major blow to an organisation that has waged its armed campaign for autonomy in Turkey's mainly Kurdish southeast region since 1984.

Erdogan also told the Turkish armed forces' War Colleges in a speech that 355 state security forces had been killed in the period, according to the state-run Anadolu Agency.

The southeast has been gripped by violence since July, with the security forces battling the PKK and its youth wing, known as the Patriotic Revolutionary Youth Movement (YDG-H), in densely populated urban centres. The fighting has marked the deadliest period in at least two decades of the insurgency.

On Monday, a local elected official in Sarioren, in Sanliurfa province, was shot dead after suspected militants hijacked his car, security sources said. They were fleeing after detonating an explosive targeting a military vehicle. Three soldiers were hurt in the explosion, they said.

The military said 25 PKK militants were killed in the towns of Nusaybin, Sirnak and Yuksekova in clashes at the weekend.

On Sunday, two soldiers were killed and seven wounded in Nusaybin, which is on the Syrian border, when militants detonated explosives in a building that security forces were searching, security sources said. Five soldiers were wounded.

In a separate incident in Nusaybin, which has been under a round-the-clock curfew since March 14, a soldier was killed by sniper fire, and a police officer was killed in a bomb attack.

It was not possible to independently verify the figures Erdogan gave. Anadolu did not say whether it included Turkish Air Force strikes on PKK camps in northern Iraq.

The military has in years past estimated the PKK's total fighting force at about 5,000, counting the guerrillas' ranks in rural Turkey and northern Iraq.

Security sources said the YDG-H had suffered a larger share of the losses since July. Analysts have said the PKK continues to attract new fighters in large numbers.
New U.S. sanctions a headache for companies linked to North Korean gold

By Yeganeh Torbati and Joel Schectman

WASHINGTON, March 28 (Reuters) - More than two dozen U.S.-listed companies have links to North Korean gold in their supply chains, according to regulatory disclosures reviewed by Reuters, potentially putting them at risk of penalties under tough new U.S. sanctions against Pyongyang's mining sector.

A March 16 executive order by President Barack Obama allows the United States to blacklist anyone found to be operating in North Korea's mining sector or to have purchased metal from its government - even indirectly through a third-country supplier.

The use of North Korean gold or other metals could open a company to millions of dollars in U.S. fines, criminal prosecutions and costly investigations.

The United States imposed the sanctions to punish Pyongyang after it carried out nuclear and missile tests this year. The mining sector is a key part of North Korea's economy, which is already largely cut off from the rest of the world. Experts believe revenue from the sector helps underwrite North Korea's military expenditures.

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings show 25 companies, including Pitney Bowes Inc, Winnebago Industries Inc and Iridium Communications Inc, disclosed in 2015 that their suppliers had used a gold smelter operated by North Korea's central bank.

Gold is widely used in electronics, valued for its ability to conduct electricity efficiently. Reuters did not find links between firms and any other North Korea-sourced metals based on SEC filings.

The filings were in response to an unrelated requirement for companies to be transparent about whether their products contained minerals from the war-torn Congo region starting in 2013. Companies have disclosed dozens of refineries used by their suppliers, including the one located in North Korea.

A spokeswoman for Pitney Bowes said its supplier that used the North Korean smelter had cut its ties with the plant "more than 18 months" ago, declining to comment further.

While Winnebago had listed the North Korean smelter as part of its supply chain, a company spokesman said gold from the smelter never made its way into Winnebago's products.

A spokeswoman for Iridium said the issue is "so far in the weeds" and declined to comment further.

A spokeswoman for the U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control, the agency tasked with enforcing sanctions, declined to comment on the implications of the SEC filings.

While importing goods and material into the United States from North Korea has long been illegal, the sweeping new sanctions implemented this month mean the U.S. government will enforce the law much more strictly, said Peter Harrell, a sanctions compliance consultant and former State Department official.

Among other changes, U.S. regulators could blacklist foreign suppliers using North Korean metals, making it illegal for other companies to buy from them.

That could disrupt the supply chain and raise costs for U.S. companies that rely heavily on foreign minerals, since they would have to vet dozens of suppliers, middlemen, refiners, and distributors to make sure they cut off anyone using North Korean metals.

PYONGYANG'S GOLD BARS

Another company that listed North Korean gold in its supply chain was Oregon technology company Radisys Corp. A spokesman said he was unsure of the company's ties to the North Korean refinery. The company uses gold to make electronics and would switch to another supplier if required by law, he said.

A spokesman for Taiwan-based Siliconware Precision Industries which also disclosed the North Korean link, said the North Korean smelter was in the company's supply chain in 2013 and 2014 but was removed as of 2015.

Of the 20 other companies who disclosed a possible North Korea link, 11 did not respond or declined to comment. Others told Reuters that North Korean gold had been removed from their supply chains, or had never made it into their products.

The refinery operated by North Korea's central bank is the only known gold smelter in North Korea and produces gold bars, said Bruce Calder, vice president of Claigan Environmental, which consults companies on compliance issues.

The smelter appears to have become inactive in the past few years but gold from there could still be showing up in company supply chains, because the refiner may still be selling gold bars it has stockpiled, according to the Conflict-Free Sourcing Initiative (CFSI), which helps companies audit supply chains.

Hong Kong buyers purchased 294 kilograms (650 pounds) of gold bars from North Korea for $11.1 million last year, up from 91 kilograms in 2014, United Nations data shows.
Primark ramps up efforts to tackle worker exploitation in Turkey, Asia

By Belinda Goldsmith

LONDON, March 29 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - British budget fashion chain Primark has ramped up checks on the factories it uses in Turkey to ensure Syrian refugees are not exploited as part of a growing company policy to ensure its workers are fairly treated.

Paul Lister, head of Primark's ethical trading team, said the retailer known for cheap, high turnover fashion is on a mission to ensure its supply chain is ethical and workers are not exploited - and that consumers know about its efforts.

Primark has said little over the years as it faced accusations of using factories or "sweatshops" in developing nations that employ what would be deemed slave labour in the West to sell T-shirts for as little as two pounds ($3).

But Lister said the time was now right for Primark to be more open about its policy to crackdown on worker exploitation and explain how it was able to sell clothes at such low prices.

Lister said the retailer has this year doubled checks on its 100 or so supplier factories in Turkey amid growing concerns about Syrian refugees who, without a right to work, were vulnerable to abuse.

Turkey is the third largest supplier of clothing to Europe after China and Bangladesh and the world's biggest host of refugees including about 2.5 million Syrians.

"We know Syrian refugees are an issue in Turkey at the moment so we have gone to unannounced audits in Turkey," Lister told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in an interview in Primark office's overlooking an upmarket London square.

"Turkey accounts for a small proportion of Primark's product sourcing, but we take our responsibility for workers in our supply chain extremely seriously wherever they are," he said.

"WAKE-UP CALL IN COMMUNICATION"

Turkey has come under scrutiny for illegally employing Syrians including in a report earlier this year by corporate ethics watchdog, the Business and Human Rights Resource Centre.

Retailers including H&M, Next, C&A and Primark reported identifying Syrian refugees in their Turkish supply base and detailed their efforts to protect refugee workers as part of the report that questioned 28 retailers.

Lister said Turkey was home to about 100 of the 1,700 supplier factories that Primark uses globally, with worker conditions monitored at all factories globally by 2,500 audits a year and spot checks by his ethics team that will expand this year to 83 from 65.

He said the company had to be more open about its supply chain, particularly after the 2013 Rana Plaza disaster in Bangladesh in which 1,135 workers were killed when a complex of five factories supplying global brands - including Primark - collapsed.

"Rana Plaza was a wake-up call in communication and the need to talk about (the supply chain)," said Lister, who joined Primark's parent company Associated British Foods in 2001.

"We didn't think we needed to demonstrate our ethics. Now there is a need to do so ... and we've been told we haven't done a very good job in the past."

SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES

The United Nation's International Labour Organization estimates there are 21 million victims of forced labour globally, with 56 percent of these in the Asia-Pacific region.

Lister is surprisingly frank about the challenges of working in the developing world and ensuring factories making clothes for Primark's 290 stores in Britain, Europe and the United States - or spinners and cotton farms - are working ethically.

Asked how sure he could be sure there was no trafficking or slavery in Primark's supply chain, Lister said: "You don't know but I am not sitting here knowing of any that exists.

"We know there are issues in sourcing out of the developing world ... so how confident am I that we can identify those issues? Very. Are we getting better? Yes, all the time.

"But the further you get from the factory, the harder it becomes plotting your total supply chain."

Lister said Primark worked hard to ensure it kept its prices low and this involved lean overheads, no advertising, placing big orders that achieved economies of scale, and high turnover.

"We unashamedly want to be the best value ... but we do share 98 percent of these factories with other people - the same conditions, same pay, same workforce - so don't ask us what we are so cheap but ask them why they are so expensive," he said.

Lister stressed that it is also important to see the benefits of working in the developing world.

He said the factories used by Primark employ about 750,000 people which impacted 2.4 million people factoring in families.

"People are coming in from the farms to the factories, many illiterate, but using these factories as a means of educating their children which will alleviate poverty over time," he said.

"If you believe that is a good thing - and I do - then we should be there and we should be dealing with the issues and I think the consumer generally believes this is the case as well."
Gunfight in Lebanon Palestinian refugee camp kills two

BEIRUT, March 28 (Reuters) - Two people were shot dead and others injured on Monday in a Palestinian refugee camp in south Lebanon after a dispute between rival political groups triggered bursts of gunfire, Reuters witnesses said.

Abdallah Qablawi, a member of the mainstream Palestinian faction Fatah, was shot by Omar al-Nattur, who belongs to a hardline Islamist group. A relative of al-Nattur was then shot dead in revenge, the Reuters witnesses and Lebanon's National News Agency said.

At least two people were injured in the dispute and the subsequent gunfire, one witness said. Shops closed their doors and people fled the camp as tensions between the rival groups built up.

Ain al-Hilweh camp, near the southern Lebanese coastal city of Sidon, has regularly seen factional disputes spiral into deadly violence.
Former Cuban leader Fidel Castro, pictured in February 2016, launched an attack on U.S. relationship with Cuba

Fidel Castro has launched a blistering attack on the US's relationship with Cuba just days after Barack Obama visited the country, writing 'we don't need the empire to give us any presents'.

The US president's visit had been intended to bury the hostility between the two countries and in a speech the former leader said it was time the nations came together 'as friends and as neighbors and as family, together'.

But in a letter to 'Brother Obama' on Monday, Castro dismissed Mr Obama's words as 'honey-coated' and reminded Cubans of the many attempts by the US to overthrow and weaken the communist government.

Mr Obama did not meet with Castro, 89, during his three-day visit last week, nor mention him in any of his public appearances, but met several times with his 84-year-old brother Raul Castro, the current Cuban president.

It was the first visit of a sitting US president since President Calvin Coolidge visited the country 88 years ago.

'One assumes that every one of us ran the risk of a heart attack listening to these words,' Fidel Castro wrote in response to the US leader's words in his column, run by state media.

Bristling at Mr Obama's offer to help Cuba, he said the country was able to produce the food and material riches it needs with the efforts of its people.

'My modest suggestion is that he reflects and doesn't try to develop theories about Cuban politics.

'We don't need the empire to give us any presents,' Castro added.

Asked about Fidel Castro's criticisms on Monday, White House spokesman Josh Earnest said the Obama administration was pleased with the reception the president received from the Cuban people and the conversations he had with Cuban officials.

'The fact that the former president felt compelled to respond so forcefully to the president's visit, I think is an indication of the significant impact of President Obama's visit to Cuba,' Earnest said.

After the visit, major obstacles remain to full normalization of ties between Cuba and the United States, with no major concessions offered by Cuba on rights and economic freedom.

'The president made clear time and time again both in private meetings with President Castro, but also in public when he delivered a speech to the Cuban people, that the US commitment to human rights is rock solid and that's not going to change,' Earnest said.

Fidel Castro took power in a 1959 revolution and led the country until 2006, when he fell ill and passed power to his brother Raul Castro. He now lives in relative seclusion but is occasionally heard from in opinion pieces or seen on television and in photos meeting with visiting dignitaries.

Mr Obama did not meet with Fidel Castro, 89, during his three-day visit, nor mention him in any of his public appearances, but met several times with his 84-year-old brother Raul Castro (pictured), the current Cuban president

It was the first visit of a sitting US president to Cuba since President Calvin Coolidge visited the country 88 years ago

The current president Raul Castro's (pictured) brother Fidel bristled at Mr Obama's offer to help Cuba and said the country was able to produce the food and material riches it needs with the efforts of its people

The iconic figure's influence has waned in his retirement and the introduction of market-style reforms carried out by Raul Castro, but Fidel Castro still has a moral authority among many residents, especially older generations.

Fidel Castro blasted Mr Obama for not referring in his speech to the extermination of native peoples in both the United States and Cuba, not recognizing Cuba's gains in health and education, and not coming clean on what he might know about how South Africa obtained nuclear weapons before apartheid ended, presumably with the aid of the US government.

Castro also took aim at the tourism industry in Cuba, which has grown further since Obama's rapprochement with Raul Castro in December 2014. He said it was dominated by large foreign corporations which took for granted billion-dollar profits.
To save South America's forests harmonize tough environment rules - study

By Chris Arsenault

TORONTO, March 28 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - To feed a growing population without destroying the world's forests, governments and companies need to harmonise rules on deforestation to stop farms or cattle ranches from moving operations into areas with weak environmental laws, researchers said on Monday.

By 2030, 100 million new hectares of farm land, an area larger than Nigeria, will be needed to grow enough food for the world's growing population, said a study by Stanford University in the United States.

But tighter land or environmental laws in one country can simply push deforestation into other regions, the study found, so legislation and regulations should be streamlined across large areas to balance competing interests for valueble lands.

"This race to the bottom (towards regions with lax laws and enforcement) is one element of what's going on," Yann le Polain de Waroux, a researcher at Stanford University, told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Large farming firms or cattle ranches also shift their operations to access cheap land or to be closer to their other investments, he said.

The Gran Chaco, an area covering parts of Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay where the study was focused has been losing 6,000 square kilometres (2,317 square miles) of forests anually over the past decade, de Waroux said.

Covering about 1,000,000 square kilometres, the Gran Chaco has a population of about 4 million, most of whom live in Argentina, according to the Organization of American States.

Deforestation rates in the region exceeded those of the Brazilian Amazon for the first time in 2010.

Based on interviews with 83 soybean and cattle farmers, researchers saw significant differences in environmental laws and levels of enforcement between the neighbouring states.

Farming investment has flown into Formosa province in northern Argentina over the past five years, partially to take advantage of lax regulations on forest protection, de Waroux said.

Paraguay has decent laws for preseving forests, but weak enforcement means firms are moving in to chop down the trees to expand agriculture, he said.

"I think there is hope for harmonising standards among companies working in that region and working to respect the regulations that are already in place," the researcher said.

Some large food companies say they are working to prevent products grown on deforested land from entering their supply chains.

Unilever, Walmart and a group of other large retailers in the Consumer Goods Forum, with a combined revenue of $2.8 trillion, say they have committed to zero net deforestation in their supply chains by 2020.
U.N. chief regrets Morocco 'misunderstanding' over W.Sahara remark

By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS, March 28 (Reuters) - U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon regrets a "misunderstanding" over his use of the word "occupation" to describe Morocco's annexation of Western Sahara, which led to Morocco expelling dozens of United Nations staff, his spokesman said on Monday.

Earlier this month Ban used the word "occupation" to describe Morocco's annexation of Western Sahara in 1975, when it took over the arid territory along the Atlantic Ocean from colonial power Spain.

"His use of the word was not planned, nor was it deliberate, it was a spontaneous, personal reaction. We regret the misunderstandings and consequences that this personal expression of solicitude provoked," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

The controversy over Ban's comments is Morocco's worst dispute with the United Nations since 1991, when the U.N. brokered a ceasefire to end a war over Western Sahara and established a peacekeeping mission, known as MINURSO.

Ban said the word during a visit to refugee camps in southern Algeria for the Sahrawi people, who contend Western Sahara belongs to them.

Morocco then ordered the United Nations to pull out dozens of civilian staffers and close a military liaison office for the MINURSO peacekeeping mission. It said its decision was irreversible, but that the government was committed to military cooperation to guarantee a ceasefire.

"Nothing (Ban) said or did in the course of that trip was meant to offend or express hostility toward the Kingdom of Morocco, which is a valued member of the United Nations," Dujarric said.

Rabat has accused Ban of dropping the United Nations' neutral stance on the Western Sahara dispute.

"The position of the United Nations has not changed," Dujarric said. "He has not and will not take sides on the issue of Western Sahara."

U.N. officials had repeatedly urged the U.N. Security Council to publicly voice its support for Ban and MINURSO, which the 15-nation body did late last Thursday in New York.

However, the council did not explicitly order Morocco to reverse its decisions or address Ban's use of the word "occupation." Some U.N. diplomats had blamed the council's days of silence on Morocco's ally France, along with Spain, Egypt and Senegal.
Head of Ukraine PM's party says new coalition agreed

KIEV, March 28 (Reuters) - Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk's party, President Petro Poroshenko's faction and the Fatherland party have agreed to form a new coalition, Maksym Burbak, the head of Yatseniuk's People's Front party, said on Monday.
Brazil party set to abandon Rousseff, making impeachment more likely

By Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA, March 28 (Reuters) - Brazil's largest party will decide on Tuesday to break away from President Dilma Rousseff's floundering coalition, party leaders said, sharply raising the odds that the country's first woman president will be impeached amid a corruption scandal.

The fractious Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) will decide at its national leadership meeting on the pace of disengagement from the Rousseff administration, in which it holds seven ministerial posts and the vice presidency.

A formal rupture appears inevitable and will increase the isolation of the unpopular Rousseff, freeing PMDB members to vote for her impeachment.

That makes it likely Rousseff will be temporarily suspended from office by Congress as early as May and replaced by Vice President Michel Temer, leader of the PMDB, while the Senate decides if she should be permanently ousted.

In the first step toward an imminent rupture, Tourism Minister Henrique Eduardo Alves, a PMDB leader and former speaker of the lower house of Congress, announced on Monday he was resigning from Rousseff's cabinet. "Dialogue, I regret to say, has been exhausted," Alves said in his resignation letter to Rousseff.

Temer aides said the vice president is ready to take over and move fast to restore business confidence in Brazil, in an effort to pull the economy out of a tailspin. Brazilian media reported over the weekend that a team of Temer aides is drawing up a plan for his first weeks as president.

Brazil's stocks and currency rose Monday on the prospect of Rousseff's removal. Many blame her for running Latin America's largest economy into the ground, while Temer is widely viewed as far more business friendly.

The Economist Intelligence Unit said in a note to clients it no longer expects Rousseff to survive impeachment, joining other risk analysts who have raised the odds of her removal.

Party officials calculate that 70 to 80 percent of the 119 voting members of the PMDB directorate will vote to end the party's alliance with Rousseff and the ruling Workers' Party. One told Reuters that 75 had already pledged to do so.

Rousseff is an economist by training and a former Marxist guerrilla who was imprisoned and tortured during Brazil's long military dictatorship. She vigorously denies any wrongdoing and rejects impeachment charges that she manipulated government spending accounts to help her re-election in 2014.

The impeachment process only adds to the crisis hitting Brazil, shaken by its biggest corruption scandal - an investigation into political kickbacks to the ruling coalition and other parties from contractors working for state oil company Petrobras.

Rousseff's government is also grappling with Brazil's worst recession in decades and an epidemic of the mosquito-borne Zika virus, as it scrambles to host the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in August.

The Petrobras scandal has weakened Rousseff by reaching her inner circle with allegations against her mentor and predecessor, Workers' Party founder Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

An attempt by Rousseff to appoint Lula to her Cabinet was the last straw for many of her allies who saw it as a desperate move to shield him from prosecution by a lower federal court that is overseeing most of the Petrobras case.

Brazil's top court is expected to decide later this week if Lula can indeed become a minister.

LULA DOWNCAST

With the prospect of impeachment ending 13 years of rule by his Workers' Party, Lula said he was "saddened" by the PMDB's exit from a coalition he forged in 2006. The former union leader, who remains Brazil's most influential politician, told foreign reporters in Sao Paulo he thought agreement was still possible.

But in Brasilia, a presidential aide said the break was "irreversible" and the Rousseff government was now focusing on individual members of the PMDB and other parties to try to convince them to vote against impeachment by offering government jobs and pork barrel for their districts.

Lula also called for tax breaks and other measures to get the economy growing again.

The departure of the PMDB is expected to lead other smaller parties to bolt from the governing coalition, which will further undermine Rousseff's ability to muster one third of the votes in Congress needed to block her impeachment.

The two largest, the Progressive Party (PP) and the Republican Party (PR), each with 40 seats or more in the lower chamber, have signaled that they are leaving.

An impeachment vote is expected as soon as mid-April in the lower house. If she fails to block it with the votes of 171 of its 513 members, Rousseff would face a trial in the Senate where she has lost crucial support among the PMDB.

One PMDB senator, Valdir Raupp, said it would be almost impossible for them now to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. PMDB senators believe it would be almost impossible for them to stop the impeachment if it passes the lower house. Rousseff would be suspended for up to six months at the start of the trial and Temer would become acting president.

Temer is already looking at ways to cut public spending to tackle a widening fiscal gap that cost Brazil's its investment grade credit rating, the O Estado de S.Paulo newspaper reported on Sunday.

It said a small team of aides led by Wellington Moreira Franco, Rousseff's former civil aviation minister, is considering sweeping welfare cuts in social programs that would be carried out by the finance minister of a Temer government.

Two names under consideration for that job are former central bank governors Henrique Meirelles and Arminio Fraga, the newspaper said. A spokesman for Temer declined to comment on the report.
UK's Sky News says Islamic State plans attack on Jewish children in Turkey

LONDON, March 28 (Reuters) - Britain's Sky News quoted intelligence sources on Monday as saying that Islamic State had "advanced plans" to kill Jewish children in Turkey by attacking kindergartens, schools and youth centres.

Sky Foreign Affairs Editor Sam Kiley said the information on the "imminent" threat came from six operatives arrested over the past week in the southern Turkish city of Gaziantep.

It was not clear which country's intelligence service had provided the information to the British news network. Reuters could not verify the report and Turkish officials were not immediately reachable for comment.

"In light of these circumstances, extraordinary security measures are being taken above and beyond the high alert level already in place by the Turkish police, as well as vigilance within the Jewish community," Sky quoted an intelligence source as saying on its website.

"Undercover and other covert counter-terror measures are being implemented around the clock. This is a more than credible threat. This is an active plot," the source was quoted as saying.

More than 80 people have been killed in a series of suicide attacks this year in Turkey, a NATO ally of the United States. The latest attack, blamed on Islamic State, killed three Israeli tourists and an Iranian in Istanbul on March 19. The group has also claimed responsibility for suicide blasts that killed 35 people last week in Belgium.

In an upgraded travel advisory on Monday, Israel urged its citizens visiting Turkey to leave "as soon as possible", predicting possible follow-up attacks.
Egypt's Sisi sacks top auditor who alleged mass state corruption

By Omar Fahmy

CAIRO, March 28 (Reuters) - President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Monday sacked Egypt's top auditor who had stirred controversy by publicly concluding that government corruption had cost the country billions of dollars.

Hesham Geneina came under heavy fire from senior officials and pro-government media after he alleged widespread graft in newspaper interviews at the end of last year.

Sisi appointed a presidential commission that quickly concluded that Geneina had misled the public by saying corruption had cost 600 billion Egyptian pounds (about $76 billion) over a four-year period.

The presidency did not spell out in a decree why Geneina was dismissed but the move came hours after the State Security Prosecution said his findings were inaccurate.

Sisi, who as army chief removed Egypt's first freely-elected president in 2013, has made fighting corruption a top priority for the government.

Geneina's removal is likely to raise questions about Egypt's commitment to fighting graft as it struggles to rebuild an economy hammered by years of political turmoil following a 2011 uprising that toppled veteran autocrat Hosni Mubarak.

The most populous Arab state also faces a Sinai-based Islamist militant insurgency that has hurt the tourism industry, a traditional pillar of the economy.

Egypt's pro-government media accused Geneina of being an Islamist because was appointed by President Mohamed Mursi of the Muslim Brotherhood, which was outlawed and declared a terrorist group.

Sisi ousted Mursi in 2013 after mass protests against his rule, and then launched a fierce crackdown on dissent, drawing widespread allegations of abuse by human rights groups, allegations the government denies.

Seen as a decisive figure who could deliver stability, Sisi gained the support of millions of Egyptians.

But he no longer enjoys cult-like adulation as Egyptians grow frustrated with unemployment and high prices.
If the hallmark of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Pakistan policy has been flip-flops, the government's Nepal policy has been a crowning failure.

Let's talk about Nepal here. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli of Nepal returned on Sunday after a week-long visit to China. Among the many agreements Oli signed there, the one that merits special mention is the Transit Trade Treaty giving Nepal access to the Chinese ports. He also signed an expected fuel deal under which Nepal can import about one-third of its gasoline requirements from China. It will help Nepal reduce its dependence on India, so far the sole supplier, for fuel.

The agreement amounts to a slap on the face of India and its policy towards Nepal. Though putting infrastructures such as road connectivity between Nepal and China in place for transportation of fuel and goods will take time, given the difficult terrain, it's a start that India will rue.

Nepal as a sovereign country does have the right to carry on its independent trade with China. But here it is a case of India literally pushing her traditional ally and friend into the arms of arch-rival China.

At the root of the current frosty ties between India and Nepal is the fuel blockade suffered by Nepal. Nobody can still understand as to why the blockade was imposed to disrupt supply of fuel, medicine and other commodities during Madhesis' agitation. Nepal went without fuel during bitter winter months, schools and colleges remained shut for shortage of gasoline and people endured sufferings for lack of medicine during the five-month disruption.

Nepal squarely blamed India for imposing an undeclared blockade to force Nepal to concede to Madhesis' demand for better representation in the federal structure proposed in the new constitution. Madhesis, with over 40 per cent of total Nepal's population and close ethnic and blood ties with the people in India, feared further marginalisation in the Nepalese power structure if the new constitution was adopted.

India failed to intercede with the government in Nepal on time to address the Madhesis' concerns. Madhesis went on a warpath bringing the entire Nepali plains or Terai region to a grinding halt.

Nepalese students in a protest shouting anti-Indian slogans in Kathmandu, September 28, 2015.

India acquiesced in the protest, making no efforts whatsoever to keep the supply line ticking. India put the blame on Nepal for failing to clear the roadblocks put in force by Madhesis to ensure the supply was restored. However, Nepal was clear on its stand and maintained that New Delhi was responsible for the blockade.

To meet the fuel shortage, Nepal signed an agreement with China for urgent supply of fuel as India stood rigid. Many believe Prime Minister Modi sacrificed warm relations with Nepal for the narrow interests of the BJP in the Bihar elections. The BJP feared that the government's perceived anti-Madhesis' stand could adversely affect the party's electoral outcomes in Bihar.

Whether Madhesis' interests or electoral realpolitik, India's relations with Nepal were severely damaged. The frost in bilateral relations was visible when the Nepalese PM visited India in February after the Madhesis had withdrawn the agitation and blockade had been lifted. True to the tradition, Oli came to India before undertaking a visit to China. But the extent of damage in the relations could be gauged by the fact that India and Nepal failed to issue a joint statement at the end of Oli's visit.

In contrast, Nepal-China joint statement issued at the end of Oli's visit to Beijing crows about the two countries' evolving relations. Oli described China as "all-weather friend." Of late, another term that is being used to describe their ties is "special relations". These expressions were reserved for India-Nepal relations for decades.

India's relations with Nepal have been a mix of high and low, euphoria and frustration. At their low, Nepal has accused India of acting like "big brother" and neighbourhood "bully" and India has often treated Nepal condescendingly. But it has never sunk so low. Unfortunately, India acted as a bully during the Madhesis' agitation.

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli with China's Premier Li Keqiang during Oli's China visit.

The four-month blockade awoke Nepal to hard realities that as a landlocked country its trade and transit are prisoners of Indian whims and fancies. It has no option but to look to China to get free of the fetters that geography puts on Nepal. India took advantage of the fact that two-thirds of Nepal's trade is with India. Also, more than 90 per cent of Nepal's trade with other countries transit through India.

Besides trade and economy, there is strategic aspects of relations too that China is exploring through its engagement with Nepal. By building closer ties with Nepal, China hopes to use Nepal as a lever against India when the need arises. China is firing a warning shot to India to keep off the South China Sea islands disputes and telling India not to enter into crosshairs with direct Chinese strategic interests.

This is what a commentator in Global Times of China said, "New Delhi should wake up to the fact that Nepal is a sovereign country, not a vassal of India. Instead of being forced into becoming a strategic barrier against China, Nepal should be better treated and act as a bridge between Beijing and New Delhi."

China talks of Nepal acting as a bridge realising that Nepal's dependence on India and its ties with India can't be overturned any time soon. However, Nepal's role as a bridge between Beijing and New Delhi is one aspect of India-Nepal relations. The more important aspect is the old friendship and ties, which advantage, unfortunately, India has frittered away by trying to arm-twist Nepal.

An editorial in Kathmandu's The Himalayan Times has aptly summed up Oli's visit to China. It says, "The accords with China will greatly help Nepal diversify its trade and considerably reduce its economic vulnerabilities."
Strong investments in higher education contained in this weeks federal budget illustrate just how deeply committed Ottawa is to empowering universities across the country, according to Dal President Richard Florizone.



Dr. Florizone praises what he calls impressive new investments in post-secondary research, innovation, and experiential learning, all of which he says align well with Dals own priorities.



This weeks budget shows the governments belief that world-class, research-intensive universities like Dal can really help move the regional and national economy forward, says Dr. Florizone.

Budget 2016, released Tuesday, includes a new $2-billion research infrastructure fund that will help Dal and other post-secondary institutions across the country retool research and other training facilities over the next three years and commits an additional $95 million per year going forward for the Tri-Council granting agencies.



The budget also reveals more about the governments commitment to increasing Canadas research capacity in clean-energy technology and ocean research, both areas where Dal is already a national and international leader.



These new investments will help ensure Canada and Dal specifically continue to carve out an even bigger role globally when it comes to world-changing research, said Dr. Florizone.



The federal government recently announced six new Canada Research Chairs at Dal, including a fisheries economist working on sustainable seafood governance and an oceanographer exploring the use of lightweight vehicles in deep-ocean research.



Investments in research, infrastructure



Dr. Florizone says another welcome initiative in the budget is the investment in innovation. The budget commits $800 million over four years (beginning in 2017-2018) to support innovation clusters and networks, a priority that mirrors Dals own commitment to helping connect people and ideas to create innovations with social and economic impact.



The president says Dal stands ready to work with the government as it moves forward on the initiative, part of a larger Innovation Agenda currently under development.



Some of the other proposed spending in the budget will be of particular benefit to students, including an increase in Canada Student Grant amounts by 50 percent for those from low- and middle-income families and those studying part-time. The measures will provide $1.53 billion in new funding over five years.

In addition to this, Dr. Florizone applauded $73 million in new funding aimed at enhancing co-op programming for students over the next four years through the Post-Secondary Industry Partnership and Cooperative Placement Initiative.

Its hard to overstate the value of hands-on learning experiences for our students and the demand weve had for those opportunities, said Dr. Florizone, noting that co-op placements increased by seven per cent at Dal last year. Obviously were very pleased to see this continue to grow.

Read also: Treasury Board President Scott Brison discusses new federal budget at Dal


Srinagar: Two civilians were killed after they were swept away by an avalanche,near the Line of Control (LoC), in Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara district on Sunday.

The duo identified as Manzoor Ahmad Cheechi, 25, and Muhammad Rafiq Cheechi 27, were working as casual labourers and were busy clearing snow from the road when the avalanche struck them, a report said.

The victims were buried alive under heaps of snow after the avalanche hit the stretch of Tangdhar-Chowkibal road at Khooni Nallah, along 3,000m high Nasta Chhun Pass in the Shams Bari ridge.

Later, police and Army teams along with local volunteers retrieved the bodies of the victims, reports said.

Parts of Jammu and Kashmir have been experiencing heavy rains, and at places, moderate to heavy snowfall for the past few days following which the authorities issued a medium danger avalanche warning, advising people not to venture into these areas.

In an earlier incident, ten Army soldiers including a junior commissioned officer were buried alive when a huge wall of frost and snow crashed into the remote Siachen Glacier, damaging a vast area which also had an Army camp located on it in the southern side of the area at a height of 19,600 feet in eastern Ladakh on February 3.
New Delhi: Capping a nine-day high-voltage political drama, the Centre on Sunday brought Uttarakhand under Presidents rule citing a Constitutional breakdown in the wake of a rebellion in the ruling Congress, which slammed the decision calling it a murder of democracy and a black day.

President Pranab Mukherjee signed the proclamation under Art 356 of the Constitution dismissing the Congress government headed by Harish Rawat and placing the Assembly under suspended animation this morning on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet.

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to let his love of power overrule the peoples mandate, but the Centre said that continuance of the Rawat government was immoral and unconstitutional after March 18 when Assembly Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal declared the Appropriation Bill passed in controversial circumstances without allowing a division sought by 35 MLAs, including nine rebel MLAs of the Congress.

Read: Will challenge President Rule, says Kapil Sibal

President Pranab Mukherjee signed the proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution dismissing the state government and placing the Assembly under suspended animation on Sunday morning. The Centre later appointed former CRPF director-general Prakash Mishra and former Union culture secretary Ravindra Singh as advisers to aid Uttarakhand governor K.K. Paul run the administration.

Condemning the imposition of Presidents Rule in the state, Mr Harish Rawat said the PMs hands were dipped in the blood of the trampled aspirations of the people and alleged Central rule was the result of a premeditated conspiracy hatched by the Centre to dislodge a democratically-elected Congress government in the state. He claimed the BJP was thirsty for his blood right from the day he assumed office on February 1, 2014 and did not want his government to stabilise.

Read: Uttarakhand Speaker serves notice to 9 rebel Congress MLAs

Welcoming the imposition of Presidents Rule, former chief minister and rebel Congress leader Vijay Bahuguna said the Rawat government needed to be dismissed as it was involved in corruption.

The Union Cabinet held an emergency meeting Saturday night presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who cut short his visit to Assam to return to New Delhi for this purpose. The Cabinet considered several reports received from the governor, who described the political situation in the state as volatile and had expressed apprehensions over a possible pandemonium during the trial of strength in the state Assembly on Monday.

The purported CD of the sting operation done against the chief minister that was in the public domain was learnt to have been factored into the Cabinets decision, which considered it as a case of horse-trading. Union finance minister Arun Jaitley is believed to have briefed the President late on Saturday night explaining the rationale for the Cabinets recommendation. The Union Cabinet met amid reports that the Speaker had disqualified the rebel Congress MLAs that would have helped the beleaguered Rawat government in the floor test. With the dismissal of the Rawat government, Mondays confidence vote has become infructuous.

Read: Murder of democracy, Modi's hands dipped in 'blood': Harish Rawat

There can be no better example of the implementation of Article 356 (imposition of Presidents Rule)... There was complete breakdown of the Constitution in Uttarakhand. There were very good grounds for the Union Cabinet to recommend Presidents Rule in the state... The chief minister had lost majority on 18th (March) and his continuation was unconstitutional and immoral, Mr Jaitley said on Sunday.

Without naming Mr Jaitley, senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal said people will not spare those in the Cabinet who are well versed with the law and still took the decision. He also asked: What constitutes a constitutional breakdown? Were there riots in the state? Who will say whether the Finance Bill (in the Uttarakhand Assembly) has been passed or not? The Speaker of the Assembly or Jaitley... Then they say that there was a sting. First you conduct a fabricated sting and then you impose Presidents Rule.

Also read: Murder of democracy, says Congress on Presidents Rule in Uttarakhand

Reacting to the Centres decision, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said: Its a blatant and brazen display of authoritarian, anti-democratic and anti-constitutional mindset of the Modi government. He said the Centres action was a grim reminder of the threat the democratic institutions of the country are facing, and accused the Modi government of having breached all records in trampling democratic norms and constitutional traditions. He also recalled that earlier the Congress-led Arunachal Pradesh government was also toppled by sheer abuse of power and money.

Referring to the March 18 Assembly proceedings, Mr Jaitley said that in the 71-member Assembly, 67 members, excluding the Speaker, were present, out of whom 35 wanted a division of votes on the Appropriation Bill. The division was sought in writing in advance by 35 members who also voted against the bill, despite which the Speaker declared the legislation as passed, he said.

The finance minister said that governor K.K. Paul had also said he had serious doubts over what happened in the Assembly on March 18 and said his report had been a key factor in the Cabinets decision.

The Appropriations Bill empowers the government to draw funds for expenses from April 1 and if it is defeated on the floor of the House, the government has to resign.

Read: Murder of democracy, Modi's hands dipped in 'blood': Harish Rawat

In Dehradun, Mr Rawat alleged there was a money deal to lure the Congress rebels, adding: Some people say it is Rs 1,000 crores, some say Rs 500 crores. He said the BJP had decided not to let his government stabilise from the day he took over and slashed my head as the first opportunity presented itself. The way we were being given repeated threats since yesterday, the way the governor was publicly issued a threat at a press conference in Delhi, it was clear that things were moving towards this eventuality. That the BJP was thirsty for my blood was clear from day one. They had decided at the very outset that they wont let the Harish Rawat government stabilise, he said.

Read: Uttarakhand Speaker serves notice to 9 rebel Congress MLAs

Denouncing the imposition of Presidents Rule, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the development was a throttling of democracy and one which goes against the letter and spirit of Constitution. He also questioned the timing, given that it was done when the floor test in the Assembly was just hours away.
In this image made from video provided by NASA, Orbital ATK's Cygnus cargo ship, top, approaches the International Space Station on Saturday. (Photo: AP)

Cape Canaveral: The six astronauts at the International Space Station got an early Easter treat this weekend with the arrival of a supply ship full of fresh food and experiments.

Instead of the usual bunny, Saturday's delivery came via a swan  Orbital ATK's Cygnus capsule, named after the swan constellation. The cargo carrier rocketed away from Cape Canaveral on Tuesday night.

NASA astronaut Timothy Kopra used the station's big robot arm to grab the capsule, as the two craft soared 250 miles above the Indian Ocean. "Excellent work, gentlemen," Mission Control radioed. Four hours later, the capsule was bolted firmly to the complex.

It's the first of three shipments coming up in quick succession. A Russian cargo ship will lift off Thursday, followed by a SpaceX supply run on April 8. NASA has turned to private industry to keep the space station stocked.

The newly arrived Cygnus holds nearly 8,000 pounds of groceries, equipment and research. Among the newfangled science: robotic grippers modeled after geckos' feet and the ingredients for a large-scale, controlled fire. A commercial-quality 3-D printer is packed inside as well; anyone will be able to order prints, for a price, from the Made In Space company. Virginia-based Orbital ATK hints Easter eggs may also be on board.

The blaze  confined to a box inside the Cygnus  won't be set until the capsule departs in May with a load of trash. NASA researchers want to see how fast the cotton-fiberglass fabric burns, in hopes of improving future spacecraft safety. Following the experiment, the capsule will burn up, for real, during re-entry.

As it turns out, the Cygnus had an out-of-the-ordinary ride to orbit. The first-stage booster of the normally reliable unmanned Atlas V rocket stopped firing six seconds early, and the upper stage had to compensate by burning a minute longer, to get the capsule in the right orbit. Rocket maker United Launch Alliance has delayed its next launch, a military satellite mission, to figure out what went wrong.

The commander of the doomed space shuttle Columbia, meanwhile, is being honored with this latest delivery. Orbital ATK named this Cygnus after Rick Husband, who piloted the first shuttle docking at the space station in 1999. He died aboard Columbia during re-entry in 2003, along with six other astronauts. Kopra called him a "personal hero" and said he was honored to welcome the "S.S. Rick Husband" aboard.

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Washington: Republican party presidential frontrunner, Donald Trump has threatened to sue Louisiana state over delegate share in the state. Ted Cruz came in second in the recent Louisiana Republican primary behind Donald Trump but could win more delegates  and the the real estate mogul is crying foul.

Trump beat the Texas senator in the March 5 contest by 3.6%. Under party rules the pair each won 18 delegates. But Cruzs campaign is using its organisation muscle to sway ten more delegates toward his camp, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Just to show you how unfair Republican primary politics can be, I won the State of Louisiana and get less delegates than Cruz-Lawsuit coming, Trump tweeted Sunday evening.


Kriket, a 34-year-old French national, was found guilty in absentia in Brussels in July of being part of a network recruiting jihadists to Syria and sentenced to 10 years in jail.

Paris: A French judge has extended the detention of the main suspect in what officials said was a foiled terror attack, a judicial source said on Monday.

Reda Kriket, who is linked to the suspected ringleader of the Paris attacks, was arrested on Thursday in a suburb of the French capital in a raid in which police also found several assault rifles and explosives.

A specialist judge authorised the French authorities to hold Kriket beyond the usual four days without charge, a move allowed if there is an imminent risk of attack.

Kriket, a 34-year-old French national, was found guilty in absentia in Brussels in July of being part of a network recruiting jihadists to Syria and sentenced to 10 years in jail.

Also convicted in absentia in the same trial was Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the suspected ringleader of the November 13 attacks in Paris that left 130 people dead.

Investigations showed Kriket played a key role in financing the jihadist network with money from robberies and stolen goods.

Among those who went to Syria through the network were Abaaoud and another Paris attacker, Chakib Akrouh.

Dutch police on Sunday arrested a French national identified only as Anis B. who is thought to have been planning the attack in France in the name of the Islamic State group along with Kriket.

Deepening the cross-border connections between the suspected jihadist cells, Belgian police at the weekend also charged two men with involvement in a terrorist group over the foiled French plot linked to Kriket.

One of them was named as Abderamane A., whom police shot in the leg after a stand-off at a tram-stop Friday in the Schaerbeek district of Brussels.
Bangladeshi activists of various Islamic political groups and other Muslims shout slogans after Friday prayers during a protest in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Thousands of Muslim devotees have rallied in Bangladesh's capital to denounce a court petition seeking to remove Islam as state religion in the Muslim-majority South Asian nation which is ruled by secular laws. (Photo: AP)

Dhaka: Bangladesh High Court today rejecteda petition by secular activists that challenges the constitutional provision recognising Islam as the state religion of the Muslim-majority nation.

The bench of Justice Naima Haider, Justice Quazi Reza-Ul Hoque, and Justice Ashraful Kamal passed the order this afternoon.

In its order, the High Court said the petitioners do not have the right to file the writ petition, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

After the passage of the Eighth Amendment Bill on June 7, 1988, 15 noted personalities had filed a public interest litigation challenging the state religion provision. Many of them are now dead.

The matter was absent from discussion tables until August 1 last year when a Hindu Supreme Court lawyer Samendra Nath Goswami filed another petition with the High Court questioning how Islam could still be acknowledged as the state religion despite revival of "secularism" as the state policy under a 2011 amendment to the Constitution.

Goswami had himself moved the petition which the bench of Justice Mohammad Emdadul Haque and Justice Muhammad Khurshid Alam Sarkar rejected outright on September 7 after a brief hearing.

On February 29, Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha formed a new three-member bench to hear the 1988 petition following a prayer submitted on behalf of the petitioners.

Today's ruling came as the country's largest Islamist party - Jamaat-e-Islami - called a nationwide strike to protest the legal move. Over 90 per cent of the population is Muslim, with Hindus and Buddhists the main minorities.
Pakistani police officers stand guard at the site of a bomb blast in a park in Lahore, Pakistan, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. A bomb blast in a park in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has killed tens of people and wounded scores, a health official said. (Photo: AP)

Islamabad: A bombing on Easter Sunday killed 65 people in a park in the eastern city of Lahore that was crowded with Christians, including many children.

A breakaway Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group claimed responsibility. Ahsanullah Ahsan, spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said that a suicide bomber with the faction deliberately targeted the Christian community.

The explosion took place near the children's rides in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park local police chief Haider Ashraf said. He said the explosion appeared to have been a suicide bombing, but investigations were ongoing.

The attack killed 65 people and wounded over 300, said Deeba Shahnaz, a spokesman for Lahore rescue administration.

Punjab's chief minister Shahbaz Sharif announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice, said Zaeem Qadri, a spokesman for the provincial government.

The park was manned by police and private security guards, police chief Haider Ashraf said. "We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat but no specific threat alert was received for this place," he added.

Schools and businesses in the city will remain closed on Monday, the city's schools association and the Union of Lahore Traders said.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif held a meeting to assess the security situation in Lahore, according to a government statement. Pakistan's army chief, Gen. Raheel Sharif, also convened an emergency meeting of the country's intelligence agencies to begin to track down those responsible for the attacks, said army spokesman Gen. Asim Saleem Bajwa.

Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the Punjab government, called on people to donate blood, saying that many of those wounded were in a critical condition.

One witness, who wished to be identified only by his first name, Afzal, told AP that he had taken 20 children to hospital and carried three dead bodies to a police car. "I can't explain to you the tragic situation," he said.

Another witness, Tariq Mustapha, said that he had just left the park when he heard an explosion. He said his friend was still missing.

Footage broadcast on local television stations showed chaotic scenes in the park, with people running while carrying children and cradling the wounded in their laps.

A witness, not identified by name on Pakistan's Geo TV station, said he was heading toward a fairground ride with his wife and two children when he heard a huge bang and all four of them were thrown to the floor. A woman was shown crying while looking desperately for her missing 5-year-old son.

A spokesman for the US National Security Council said that the United States "condemns the attack in the strongest terms," describing it as a "cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park." Ned Price said the US would continue to work with Pakistan and its partners to "root out the scourge of terrorism."

Vikas Swarup, spokesman for India's External Affairs ministry, tweeted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi telephoned Pakistani premier Nawaz Sharif to express his deep condolences. He said Modi "underlined the need for uncompromising efforts to fight against terrorism."
Kathmandu: At least half a dozen people were injured on Monday in Nepal after a powerful dust storm swept across its capital Kathmandu, disrupting normal life and flights, including one of Jet Airways.

The storm blowing at a speed of over 70 kilometres per hour hit the capital at around 4 pm and forced the Tribhuvan International Airport, the country's only international airport, to close due to poor visibility.

The roaring storm lasted for 15 minutes causing darkness and created panic among the citizens. The road traffic was brought to a halt in different places for half an hour.

Nepal Police's control room said no fatalities were reported so far. However, there have been reports of minor injuries caused to some individuals in different parts due to the hitting of flying objects, 'The Himalyan Times' reported.

Three people were injured in the heart after a tree fell on them. One person was injured in Koteshwor area, and three in other parts of the city, police said.

Two international flights one each of Etihad Air and Jet Airways coming to Kathmandu were diverted to Lucknow, according to a duty official at the airport. Likewise, some domestic flights, including of Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines, were diverted to Biratnagar, the report said.

The visibility had come down to 200 metres. Flights do not take off from or land at TIA if ground visibility is less than 1000 metres. The storm followed by drizzle, however, cleared the skies that were blanketed by a haze for over a week.
Karachi Press Club was the first press club established in Pakistan's Karachi city. (Photo: karachipressclub.com)

Karachi: A gang of unidentified armed gunmen today attacked Pakistan's Karachi Press Club, damaging the historic property and thrashing staffers of a private news channel.

Some armed men who could not be identified attacked the press club premises in the evening and caused damage to the property and vehicles parked there, said senior police officer Fazil Jamali.

"All the members had to rush out for safety as these armed men broke windows and furniture and spread terror," Mr Jamali said.

The armed men also grabbed cameras from five vans parked near the club and attacked the staff of one of the private news channels who were standing near their van.

Sindh Home Minister Anwar Siyal has ordered an immediate investigation into the matter by senior police officials. "The armed men fled before the arrival of the police and rangers," a club member said.

The attack came when supporters and activists of different religious groups were observing Chehlum of Mumtaz Qadri, assassin of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who was executed earlier this month.

Qadri who was on VIP security duty for the late governor had pumped dozens of bullets into Mr Taseer in Islamabad for allegedly talking about reviewing the blasphemy law.

The religious groups were complaining about a media blackout on the coverage of their activities about Qadri. Karachi Press Club was the first press club established in Pakistan's Karachi city. Its first election was held in 1958.
Uttarakhand witnessed dramatic turns on Sunday with the Centre imposing Presidents Rule in the morning and the Speaker disqualifying 9 rebel Congress MLAs hours later.





The Centre cited breakdown of governance for its decision, which was slammed by the Congress and other opposition parties as murder of democracy. The move came a day before Chief Minister Harish Rawat was to prove his majority in the state Assembly after nine Congress legislators rebelled and voted against the Finance Bill on March 18.



Hours after the Presidents rule was imposed in Uttarakhand, nine rebel Congress MLAs, including former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna, were disqualified from the Assembly by Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal under the anti-defection law. The nine MLAs had revolted against their government headed by Harish Rawat in the House on March 18.



At a press conference in Dehradun, Kunjwal said the decision to disqualify the legislators had been taken on the basis of evidence available against them and after detailed hearing held with their lawyers in response to the notices served to them.



In Delhi, at a hurriedly summoned meeting on Saturday night, the Union Cabinet recommended to President Pranab Mukherjee to impose the Presidents Rule in the hill state. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had called on Mukherjee after the meeting to brief him about the rationale for the imposition of the rule.



There was a complete breakdown of the Constitution. The chief minister had lost majority on March 18 and his continuation was unconstitutional and immoral, Jaitley told reporters in Delhi on Sunday.



The Centre appointed former DG of CRPF, Prakash Mishra, and former Union culture secretary Ravindra Singh as advisers to the Uttarakhand governor.



The Congress hit out at the Modi government, accusing it of murdering democracy and negating Constitution with impunity.



Uttarakhand Governor K K Paul had asked the chief minister to prove majority by March 28 after the controversial passage of the Finance Bill in the state assembly on March 18.



AICC General Secretary Ambika Soni, who is the party in charge of Uttarakhand, said the imposition of Presidents Rule was the final act in BJPs endeavour to seize power in the hill state. What is the justification for imposition of Presidents Rule 24 hours before the floor test to prove majority, Congress chief spokesman Randeep Singh Surjewala said.



Jaitley rejected the Congress accusations. He said the governor had been sending reports of the volatile political situation in Uttarakhand and expressed apprehension over possible pandemonium during the floor test scheduled for Monday.



He dubbed as baseless the Congress allegations that the imposition of Presidents Rule was unconstitutional.

DH News Service



It is a murder of democracy and the Constitution. Modi's hands are dipped in the blood of the trampled aspirations of the people of Uttarakhand. What has happened is the result of a premeditated conspiracy hatched by the Centre to dislodge a democratically elected government in the state.

Harish Rawat, Uttarakhand CM





There can be no better example of implementation of Article 356...There was complete breakdown of the Constitution in Uttarakhand. There were very good grounds for the Union Cabinet to recommend President's Rule in the state... The Chief Minister had lost majority on 18th (of March) and his continuation was unconstitutional and immoral.

Arun Jaitley, Finance Minister
The joint action committee for social justice of the Hyderabad Central University (HCU), the students organisation which is leading the protest over Rohith Vemula issue, called for boycott of classes "at all the (college) campuses" in the country today.





The call is in protest against alleged police brutality on students of HCU and in Kozhikode, Mumbai and Chennai, the JAC said in a release.



It also demanded dropping of all charges against students, faculty members at HCU and elsewhere in the country and immediate removal and arrest of P Appa Rao, Vice Chancellor of HCU, under the SC/St (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.



Its other demands include "demilitarisation of the campus, action against police for the unnecessary and targeted violence, false detention, misinformation about the detained people and physical and sexual assault on women students and faculty, and introduction of Rohith Act," according to JAC's press release.



Several students were arrested following attack on VC's residence on March 22 after Appa Rao, who had gone on a long leave after Dalit scholar Vemula's suicide, resumed the duty.
A married woman committed suicide at her house in south Delhis Defence Colony on Friday night. She worked as an event manager.





Her body was found hanging from a ceiling fan in her bedroom, police said.

Police have recovered a suicide note from near the body in which the woman has blamed the husband of inflicting physical torture on her. She decided to take her life because of this, she wrote.



She has also blamed her mother-in-law of mentally harassing her in the suicide note.

Police have arrested Priyankas husband Nitin Chawla, 40. Nitin, the owner of several pubs in Delhi and Chandigarh, was present at the house when the suicide was discovered.



The matter came to the fore when the mother of 26-year-old Priyanka came at her daughters house when she didnt receive her calls.



When the deceaseds mother reached her daughters house, she found the door of her room bolted. Despite constantly knocking, no response came from inside, said a police officer.



Her mother then informed police. Teams of police and fire brigade reached the house and broke open the door.



We found the body bent half on knees, with a noose around the neck. We took her to AIIMS where doctors declared her brought dead, the police officer added.



Police have registered a case of dowry harassment on the complaint of Priyankas sister.

The sub divisional magistrate has also initiated investigation.



Prima facie, police have found injury marks on the body, and her left wrist was found slashed.



It looks like she first tried to kill herself by slashing her wrist before hanging herself, said a police officer.



According to police, Priyanka and Nitin had married in January this year.

Nitin had divorced his first wife who lives in Punjabi Bagh in order to wed Priyanka. He has a 10-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter from his first marriage, said a relative of Priyanka.



An owner of two pubs in Delhi and five in Chandigarh, Nitin also has several steel factories in the NCR region.



Priyanka hails from Chandigarh, but her parents live in Lajpat Nagar here.

Priyanka was running an event organiser firm with her friend Tehrima Zaaki.



Priyanka first met Nitin at his pub while she was organising an event for him in April 2015. After that Nitin and Priyanka interacted a few more times and Nitin proposed to marry her, said a relative.



Priyanka initially refused Nitins proposal as he was married.



Nitin first tried to lure her into marriage by showing off his wealth. When she refused, he proposed to divorce his wife.



After divorcing his wife in December, Nitin married Priyanka, the relative added.

However, the couple started fighting within weeks of their marriage, the relative said.


India's traditional air superiority is now under 'threat' as China and Pakistan are rapidly modernising their air force, a top US think-tank warned today, underlining that resolving the 'crisis' should be a priority for the government.



"Despite being a world-class combat arm, the IAF's falling end strength and problematic force structure, combined with its troubled acquisition and development programs, threaten India's air superiority over its rapidly modernising rivals, China and Pakistan," said the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.



Authored by Ashley Tellis, the top American expert on India and South Asia, whose counsel is sought by governments in both the countries, the report "The Manifold Travails of the Indian Air Force" argues that Indian air dominance is vital for deterrence stability in southern Asia and for preserving the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific region.



"Resolving India's airpower crisis, therefore, should be a priority for New Delhi," Tellis says in his report running in more than 60 pages.



The IAF's fighter force, as of early 2016, is weaker than the numbers suggest, the report said, adding that at nominally 36.5 squadrons, it is well short of its sanctioned strength, and many of its frontline aircraft are obsolete.



China and Pakistan field about 750 advanced air defense/ multirole fighters against the IAF's 450-odd equivalents, the report said.



Though, the airfield infrastructure limitations in Tibet prevent China from bringing all of its air capabilities to bear against India, yet after 2025, China could be able to deploy anywhere between 300 and 400 sophisticated aircraft against India, in addition to the 100 to 200 advanced fighters likely to exist in Pakistan by then, it said.



"The IAF's desire for 4245 squadrons by 2027  some 750800 aircraft  is compelling, if India is to preserve the airpower superiority it has enjoyed in southern Asia since 1971," it said, recommending that India needs to safeguard its regional air superiority over both Pakistan and China by mustering the requisite end strength and enhancing its extant operational advantages.



The IAF's likelihood of reaching its 2027 goal with a high proportion of advanced fighters is poor, Tellis concluded in his report.



"It is stymied by serious constraints on India's defense budget, the impediments imposed by the acquisition process, the meager achievements of the country's domestic development organisations, the weaknesses of the higher defense management system, and India's inability to reconcile the need for self-sufficiency in defense production with the necessity of maintaining technological superiority over rivals," it said.

The IAF is attempting to reach its desired end strength by acquiring the Tejas Mark 1 to beef up its lightweight segment, filling out the remainder of its Medium Multirole Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) purchase in its medium-weight segment, and continuing with the Su-30MKI acquisition and the PAK-FA (Prospective Airborne Complex of Frontline Aviation) co-development programs to sustain its heavyweight segment, the report noted.



Tellis said that all three tiers of the IAF are currently in trouble.



The Tejas Mark 1 is handicapped by significant technological deficiencies; the prospects for expanding the MMRCA component to compensate for the Tejas's shortcomings are unclear; and the IAF's reluctance to proceed fully with the PAK-FA programme could undermine its fifth generation fighter ambitions.



The Carnegie report recommends that the IAF should revisit some aspects of its current approach and should be cautious about expanding the Tejas acquisition beyond six squadrons and consider enlarging the MMRCA component with the cheapest fourth-generation-plus Western fighter available.



India should also reassess the decision to develop the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft indigenously and avoid weakening the collaboration with Russia on the PAK-FA programme, the report recommends.



It recommends that India should expand its investments in advanced munitions, combat support aircraft, electronic warfare, physical infrastructure, and pilot proficiencyall current strengths while being realistic about its domestic capacity to produce sophisticated combat aircraft.



"Indian policymakers must especially guard against the temptation to prioritise indigenous design and manufacture over the imperative of providing the IAF's able pilots with the best fighters available," Tellis said in his report.
The Supreme Court today gave time to the government to suggest ways to ban child pornography in all its forms and took on record the Centre's earlier direction to internet service providers to block porn sites.





"In pursuance to our earlier order, some suggestions have been filed. The Centre has sought two weeks time to file its suggestions. Put up the matter for further hearing in the week commencing from April 18," a bench headed by Justice Dipak Misra said.



Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Centre, said due to holidays, the meeting of concerned departments could not be held and sought two weeks to file suggestions on the issue of banning child pornography.



The bench, also comprising Justice Shiva Kirti Singh, took on record the suggestions given by the advocate Vijay Panjwani appearing on behalf of petitioner Kamlesh Vaswani to block the pornographic sites, especially those containing child pornographic contents.



Panjwani also placed on record, the government's last year's order in which Internet Service Providers were directed to block websites containing pornographic content, submitting that similar steps are required to be taken to ban such websites containing child pornographic materials.



The apex court had on February 26, asked the government to suggest ways to ban child pornography saying the nation cannot "afford to carry on any experiment" in the name of "liberty or freedom of speech and expression".



It had said that innocent children cannot be made prey to this kind of painful situation and a nation cannot afford to carry on any experiment on children in the name of liberty or for that matter freedom of speech and expression.



It had asked the government to seek advice from experts and suggestions from the National Commission for Women (NCW) on banning of websites dealing with adult and child pornography.



A women lawyers' body had earlier moved the apex court seeking blocking of all porn websites, saying that pornography "corrupts" the mind of the young generation and leads them to commit crime against women and children.



The intervention application filed by the SCWLA, had come after the Centre's decision to lift ban on 857 porn sites.



On August 10, last year, the government had told the Supreme Court that it does not believe in a "totalitarian" state and cannot become moral police.



It had termed the issue relating to banning of porn sites as a "grey area" and said that violation of fundamental right of speech and expression will also arise and hence, the matter needed public debate.



The petitioner had pleaded that although watching obscene videos is not an offence, pornographic sites should be banned as they were one of the major causes for crimes against women.



"The sexual content that kids are accessing today is far more graphic, violent, brutal, deviant and destructive and has put entire society in danger, so also safety threats to public order in India.



"The petitioner most respectfully submits that most of the offences committed against women/girls/children are fuelled by pornography. The worrying issue is the severity and gravity of the images are increasing. It is a matter of serious concern that pre-pubescent children are being raped," it had said.
Washing his hands off the controversy over a Pakistani Joint Investigation Team's visit to the Pathankot airbase tomorrow, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today said the "crime scene" is under the control of NIA and it is up to the agency to decide who to allow there or not.





Noting that no permission has been given by the Defence Ministry for entry into the airbase, he said that the "crime scene", a "non-sensitive" area, has been completely barricaded, including visually, on his orders and no defence asset would be used to facilitate the visit of the Pakistani team.



"However, an area where the actual crime had taken place had been handed over to NIA long back which is conducting the entire investigation. Who will be taken there, who will probe, depends on the decision of NIA," Parrikar said replying to questions here on the sidelines of Defexpo.



"We have specifically refused them permission to go anywhere in the airbase," he said.



He said that as far as the Defence Ministry is concerned, they have issued clear directions that the "crime scene" should be barricaded -- visually blocked or obstructed -- and that external entry should be given to NIA.



The minister said he had issued the instructions following media reports.



"Whom to bring, when to bring is their responsibility till they complete the investigation," he said.



"If I don't permit them this crime investigation freedom, then the crime investigation failure would be blamed on the Defence Ministry. We have isolated the area completely," he said.



Parrikar, who had earlier publicly spoken against the planned visit of the Pakistani team to the Pathankot airbase, said the crime scene was least sensitive and non-functional area except for a hostel for foreign cadres and mess.



"This area is isolated and taken out from airbase till the investigation is completed. Permission to land at airbase has been refused, permission to use any of the defence instruments like vehicles has been refused. Permission to speak to any defence personnel has been refused," he said, adding these questions should be directed to NIA.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, who has accused the Modi dispensation of trying to "destabilise and topple" his government by using central agencies, today met Congress President Sonia Gandhi in the backdrop of President's Rule being imposed in party-ruled Uttarakhand.



On its part, BJP refuted Singh's allegations, saying this was to get "cheap sympathy". Singh has been so far avoiding going to jail but he can "go there any time", it said.



Singh, who is facing a probe by the Enforcement Directorate(ED) in a disproportionate assets case, is believed to have apprised the Congress chief on "sustained efforts" by the Centre to dislodge his government.



Sources close to Singh said the meeting with Gandhi came through as the Congress president had not met him earlier when he had sought time.



Singh spent a few minutes with Gandhi at her 10, Janpath residence and is learnt to have discussed the cases against him as well. He later left for Shimla.



He alleged the central government has been destabilising Congress-ruled states one by one and cited examples of Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand where President's Rule was imposed.



He also accused the BJP-led central government of "misusing" government agencies to embroil him in different cases.



The 81-year-old Chief Minister has been booked by the ED in the disproportionate assets case and last week his properties worth Rs 8 crore were attached by the agency.



Dismissing Singh's claim that it was trying to topple his government, BJP said there was discontent in Congress against him due to corruption charges against him.



"ED has attached his property in Delhi. There is discontent in Congress against him. So far he has been making efforts to avoid going to jail. He can go there anytime. So he is making such baseless allegations to garner cheap sympathy," party National Secretary Shrikant Sharma said.



Sharma, who is also Himachal in-charge, said Congress suffered from internal crisis in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Himachal. Lack of party action against Singh has fueled discontent in Congress, he claimed.



He said Singh should quit as the state government had become paralysed due to criminal cases against him.



"He is accused of massive corruption. He had to quit as a minister from the UPA government due to corruption charge against him," he alleged, adding that CBI had begun its probe during the UPA rule.



"BJP should not be blamed for the investigation. The probe was slow earlier for political reasons and it is now heading in the right direction," he said.


People will soon have to dial just a single number '112' for help during emergency situations such as availing services of police, ambulance and the fire department.





The proposal to have a single number for various emergency services, approved by the inter-ministerial panel Telecom Commission, would be similar to the '911' all-in-one emergency service in the US.



All existing emergency numbers will be phased out within a year of rolling out 112, depending upon the awareness about this new facility.



"Telecom Commission has accepted Trai's recommendation on single emergency number 112. It will now be drafted by the Department of Telecom and will require Telecom Minister's (Ravi Shankar Prasad) approval. It will be rolled out within months rather than a year," an official source told PTI.



The source said the panel has accepted recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) after including clarifications given by it.



In India, different emergency communication and response systems are in place -- police (100), fire brigade (101), ambulance (102) and Emergency Disaster Management (108).



Also, a number of states have notified various helpline numbers for assistance to special categories of citizens, like Woman in distress - 181 (Delhi), Missing Children and Women - 1094 (Delhi), Crime Against Women - 1096 (Delhi), Police Headquarter helpline - 1090 (Uttar Pradesh) etc.



A person in distress will now need to call 112, which will direct the call to concerned departments immediately for help.



The service will also be accessible even through those SIMs and landlines whose outgoing call facility has been stopped or temporarily suspended.



A user will be able to make communication even through SMS and the system will learn about the location of the caller that will be shared with the nearest help centre.



The service will be operated by a call centre like facility, which will have representatives speaking in Hindi, English and the local language.
Soweto, South Africa: On a recent evening at Esther Thobagales modest four-room house in this township outside Johannesburg, she was preparing pap, the traditional cornmeal porridge that is a staple food of low-income families across South Africa.





A few days before, Esther had learned that she was going to have to pay a much higher price for cornmeal  80 rand for a two-week supply, up from 50 rand. Thats a barely affordable increase for Esther, an unemployed grandmother who supports the household on a government pension and other income totaling 1,730 rand a month. Im now forced to cut down on non-essentials, like treats for my grandkids, she said.



Worst drought

South Africa has suffered through its worst drought in decades. With little rain last fall during the start of the growing season, the countrys biggest crop, corn, has been hit hard. Although rainfall amounts have increased in the past few weeks, the government estimates that the soon-to-be-harvested crop will be 27 per cent lower than last years.



The World Bank estimates that the drought has pushed 50,000 more South Africans below the poverty line of about $32 a month. But even for those who can afford to pay higher prices, there may not be enough corn to meet the demand. Wandile Sihlobo, an economist at the corn farmers lobby group Grain SA, said estimates are that South Africa would be forced to import more than four million tonnes of corn to meet the demand. Part of the problem, said Shukri Ahmed, an official with the Food and Agriculture Organisation, is that corn yields were down in early 2015, too. Last year there was a 30 per cent decline, Shukri said.



Wandile said that of the corn that South Africa will import, about 700,000 tonnes would be sent on to Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland. But other countries in the region have been badly affected by the drought as well, including Zimbabwe, which probably has a shortfall of about 1.3 million tonnes, Wandile said. The question is where is this going to come from, he said. This might put added pressure on South Africa.



The drought has caused economic hardship for South Africas farmers as well. In North West province, one of several in which the South African government has declared a disaster, Thean Geldenhuys, a corn farmer, said his income was down by 75 per cent because of the drought.


A 25-year-old man, suspected to have fallen asleep at the wheel, died after his car toppled in Electronics City on Monday morning.





Two passengers suffered injuries, but are said to be out of danger.The police identified the deceased as Sukur, a resident of Sarjapur. The injured are Rafeeq and Zakariya.



Sukur, a native of Madikeri, was employed as a driver in Dubai and had returned to India a few months ago to take up a drivers job in Bengaluru, said the police.



Sukur, Zakariya and Arif were heading to Madikeri to attend the wedding of Sukurs sister when the accident occurred. Sukur appeared to have fallen asleep while driving and the car toppled while negotiating a turn on the Koppa Begur bridge on Nice Road at around 1.50 am.



Sukur suffered fatal injuries, while the two others escaped with bruises, said the police.

The three were rushed to a hospital, where Sukur was declared dead on arrival. The injured were treated at the hospital and discharged later, added the police.



Motorcyclist mowed down

A motorcyclist died on the spot after a goods vehicle rammed into his bike in Kengeri.

The deceased was identified as Manu P, 27, a resident of Kengeri and a driver by profession.

The incident occurred on Mysuru Road Junction at around 11.45 pm when the victim was returning home.



The driver of the goods vehicle abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene. A few local residents rushed Manu to a nearby hospital but he was declared brought dead, added the police.The police have seized the goods vehicle.



DH News Service
Under the glare of a naked light bulb, in the tiny one-room apartment where he has taken shelter with three other young Syrian refugees, Ismail Haki clutched the folded white card on which he has pinned all his hopes. Its our only chance, said Haki, as he and his companions displayed the cards that showed they have applied for asylum in Europe. If this works, we dont know what country well end up in. But at least wed be in Europe.





The four men arrived in Greece last month after making a perilous trek from Aleppo, the war-torn Syrian city, to find a hoped-for path to Germany closed. After languishing in a military camp for two weeks, they turned in desperation to a final option and entered a European Union relocation programme that might, if they are lucky, place them almost anywhere in Europe but Germany.



The closing of Europes main migrant route to Germany, whose open-door policy last year made it a preferred destination for refugees, has stranded more than 50,000 people in Greece. Now, as a European Union deal to start returning new arrivals to Turkey takes effect, many are realising that their dream of getting into Europes prosperous north may be virtually impossible to attain.



Having come this far, migrants are scrambling to figure out how they can stay legally anywhere in Europe, or at least avoid getting deported as new policies to reduce their numbers come into place. Some are now taking steps to settle in Greece, a battered country that may struggle to integrate them at a time when a quarter of the population is jobless. But many more are vying to get into the EU relocation programme, which is supposed to disperse 1,60,000 refugees, mostly from West Asia, in countries across Europe.



People are scared. A lot of them are saying we have no hope, said Yousif Karoija, a Syrian who has been living for weeks in Piraeus, the port of Athens, after being tear-gassed when he tried to cross Greeces northern border. These people will apply to the relocation programme now; they are tired, and will go anywhere in Europe, he said, sweeping his eyes over a crowd of nearly 5,000 women, children and men camped in squalid conditions around the port.



The timing could not be worse. Since Islamic State assailants bombed Brussels last week in terror attacks that killed 31 people, Europes focus has swung sharply to security, raising the prospect of a further tightening of the EUs migration policies. The attacks renewed a bitter debate over migrants as right-wing European politicians urged a halt to mass immigration in speeches that conflated refugees with terrorism.



Poland on Wednesday abandoned its pledge to take more than 6,000 migrants under the EU relocation programme, citing the attacks. We cant allow for events in Western Europe to happen in Poland, said Rafal Bochenek, a spokesman for the conservative government. For Haki and the men with whom he was sheltered, the future was thrown into question yet again.



We left a dangerous situation, said Haki, who was transferred from a military camp near a muddy refugee encampment in Idomeni to a cramped apartment in a run-down Athens neighbourhood after registering for the programme with the UN refugee agency. We hope every country will have an open mind. But after Brussels, I dont know.



Even before the bombings, Europes welcome was wearing thin. The new EU accord with Turkey, which authorises migrant deportations starting April 4, was sealed rapidly last week to dissuade asylum seekers from coming after more than 1 million reached Europe last year. Aid agencies withdrew some operations in Greece this past week to protest the deal, which they say flouts international law.



Countries opposing a further migrant influx have also resisted implementing the EU relocation accord, which is barely functioning. Under the pact struck in September, European countries agreed to take asylum seekers from Greece and Italy to help share the burden.



But Austria, Hungary and Slovakia have refused to comply. Others have dragged their feet: France has agreed to take just 1,300 migrants out of 19,431 places pledged, while Germany opened 40 spots out of 27,479. Belgium has made 30 places available out of 3,788. All told, fewer than 1,000 refugees have been relocated since the pact took effect. Haki heard about the relocation plan at the military camp, where the UN refugee agency and aid organisations offer information and sign-ups.



Once registered, migrants can move into one of around 20,000 rooms in hotels, apartments and host homes funded by the United Nations and run by the Greek aid group PRAKSIS, which provides food vouchers and medical care while the refugees await a decision on their applications. One recent evening, Haki and the other young men sipped tea on the balcony of their apartment, where four bunk beds crowded a room next to a small kitchen. With the exception of two Greek families, everyone in the five-story building was a refugee from Syria or Iraq.



Relocation process

We need a future, said Mohamoud Sharour, 23, who said he had fled conflict in Aleppo. Right now were stuck. We wait, we sleep, smoke cigarettes. But we want to work, and build a life. Everyone was worried that the attacks on Brussels might cloud their chance of getting into Europe.



Im afraid people will think we are all Daesh, said Ahmed Arab, 22, also from Aleppo, using the Arabic acronym for the Islamic State. People watch TV, they see that Muslims killed people, and they think all Muslims are the same. But Im not the same. Do we look like Daesh? he asked, smiling as he lifted his teacup. We are more frightened than the Europeans, because weve seen this before  bombs, shooting, he continued. Thats what were trying to get away from.



The relocation process can take months as EU countries conduct background security checks on applicants, said Jean-Pierre Schembri, a spokesman for the European Asylum Support Office, which oversees the programme. He added that it was too early to tell if more countries would resist taking migrants after the Brussels attacks.



Until recently, most migrants had avoided applying, because the programme does not permit them to choose the country where they would be settled. People with family in Germany, for instance, feared they would be kept apart. But now that there is a rush to the doors, the Greek authorities are overwhelmed. Last week, the programme was suspended briefly after thousands of people hurried to apply.



While Haki and the others had help, the vast majority of migrants still do not. For them, figuring out the way forward remains a Kafkaesque undertaking, often ending in desperation.


The first squadron of the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft would be raised within a year, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.





The first squadron of Tejas is to be raised either late this year or early next year. The production capacity at the HAL would also be doubled to produce 16 aircraft in a year, Parrikar said here on the sidelines of the Def Expo here.



Last year, IAF said it was ready to take about 120 Tejas in the present configuration with some improvements in the radar, missile, refuelling and electronic warfare system.



We will induct them in the present shape in large number and not insisting on the Mark-II version, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha stated.



Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Aeronautical Development Agency prepared a road map on the shortcomings that would be addressed in a time-bound manner.



The first set of 4-6 LCA is now expected to be ready by 2016-end to raise the first Tejas squadron.

The aircrafts strike abilities, however, came under question when a laser-guided bomb it fired during the Iron Fist exercise didnt hit the target. But IAF officials said it was the fault of the bomb kit and not the aircraft.



IAF officials mentioned that Tejas was superior to China-made JF-17 aircraft, which will be used by the Pakistani Air Force.



IAF has the governments sanction to raise 42 fighter squadrons by 2027. But on paper, it has 33 squads, almost 10 squadrons of which are outdated MiGs that are to be phased out.

DH News Service
South Africa signed off from the World Twenty20 on a winning note following their eight-wicket defeat of Sri Lanka in Super 10 Group 1 clash at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium on Monday.





Both South Africa and Sri Lanka had bowed out of the semifinal race to turn this contest into a dead rubber. Expectedly, the two teams chose to shuffle the sides.



Sri Lanka were without their captain Angelo Mathews, who had strained his hamstring during his heroic innings against England. He was replaced by Suranga Lakmal while an injured Dushmantha Chameera made way for Shehan Jayasuriya.

As for South Africa, they rested Kagiso Rabada to bring in Dale Steyn, Chris Morriss stiff back allowed Kyle Abbott to step in and Farhaan Behardien replaced Rilee Rossouw.



Put in to bat, Sri Lanka blew away a formidable start to fold up for 120 in 19.3 overs and made it a run-a-ball chase for South Africa. The Proteas comfortably wound up their task with 14 balls remaining.



South Africa began on a false note when Quinton de Kock was run out in the second over. But the experienced Hashim Amla (56 n.o.) and Faf du Plessis (31) came together to weave crucial 60 runs for the second wicket. The two effortlessly collected runs, and there was little the Sri Lankan attack could do to stop them.

Du Plessis, however, fell to a controversial leg before decision as his attempted scoop off Lakmal appeared to have got an inside edge. He walked off with a wry smile but the 16,000-plus crowd here was not too bothered. They were simply washed up in the excitement of seeing AB De Villers in action and feverishly chanted his name. Amidst all this, Amla quietly reached the 50-run mark. And when De Villiers whacked just his second six, curtains fell on the match.



Earlier Dilshan and Chandimal were off to a flying start to rack up 45 runs in 4.5 overs. But the Protean spinners, led by left-arm spinner Aaron Phangiso (2-26), strangulated their charge before medium pacers Behardien and Abott struck with their slower balls.



Steyns second over had leaked 26 runs but Phangiso, replacing him in the fifth over, quickly eased the worries of his captain despite being hammered for a boundary and six in his first two balls. However, in his fifth ball he bowled Chandimal who had tried to go for an expansive drive. New batsman Lahiru Thirimanne was back with a golden duck when Phangisos delivery pitched on the off-stump before spinning to take off his leg stump. Sri Lanka had lost two wickets in two balls at 45 runs by the end of the fifth over.



With Dilshan around, the runs kept ticking but his partnership with Milidaa Siriwardana ended when the latter ran himself out. Their 30-run stand for the third-wicket was the last partnership the Sri Lankans were to have this day. At the end, they couldnt put enough on board to challenge the mighty Proteas.


The Congress on Monday mounted a legal challenge on the imposition of Presidents rule in Uttarakhand with ousted chief minister Harish Rawat moving the Uttarakhand High Court against the Centres decision.





Senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi moved a petition on Rawats behalf questioning the Modi governments decision to invoke Article 356 and put the state Assembly under suspended animation a day before it was to take up the trust vote as directed by the governor.



The matter was being heard in the court of Justice U C Dhyani, who has now adjourned the proceedings for Tuesday.



In Delhi, Congress spokesperson R P N Singh said the partys advocates have argued that a constitutional process was underway in Uttarakhand wherein the governor had asked the chief minister to prove his majority on March 28.



The Congress argued that the Supreme Court judgment in the S R Bommai case makes it clear that a floor test was the only way to test the majority of a government.



The Presidents rule was imposed to stop the floor test. This is the big issue that we are raising (before the court), Singh said.



Asked whether the Congress was ready for early elections, Singh said the state was to go to polls in less than a year and he was shocked to see the desperation of the BJP to topple the Rawat government.



We are definitely ready for elections. It is the BJP that is worried because of the good work done by the Congress government, he said.



Meanwhile, Rawat met Governor K K Paul with 31 MLAs and sought permission to prove majority in the state Assembly.



Besides 26 Congress MLAs, five legislators of the Progressive Democratic Front and one nominated member accompanied Rawat to meet Paul.



The Congress still enjoys a majority in the state Assembly and it should have been given an opportunity to prove this on the floor of the House, Congress MLA Indira Hridayesh told reporters in Dehradun.

DH News Service



SC should intervene in matter

Even as opposition parties attack the Centre for imposing Presidents rule in Uttarakhand, the CPI(M) has called for the scrapping of Article 256 empowering dismissal of state governments, DHNS reports from New Delhi.



While the basic remedy is to scrap Article 356 itself from the Constitution, the Supreme Court should take up the matter on a priority basis to ensure that the letter and spirit of the Bommai judgement is adhered to, the CPI(M) said in a statement on Monday.



The imposition of Presidents rule in Uttarakhand and the earlier episode in Arunachal Pradesh shows that the Modi government is utilising Article 356 to topple governments run by the opposition. This should not be allowed, it added, noting that imposing Presidents rule a day before the state government was to test its majority on the floor makes it patently illegal.



JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said all non-BJP parties, including the NDA constituents the Akali Dal, PDP, Shiv Sena and the TDP must cooperate to raise the issue in Parliament.
Bihar Inpector-General (Prisons) Anand Kishore has asked jail authorities to install mobile jammers by September 30 and allow inmates to use landline phone to talk to relatives.





The landline phone arrangement comes with caveats: First, the prisoner will have to talk to his/her kin in the presence of jail officials. Secondly, all such conversations will be recorded.



The decison came in the wake of rising complaints about jail inmates using cell-phones to make ransom/threat calls, despite cooling their heels behind bars.



This step assumes significance as earlier this month a minister in the Nitish cabinet went to meet former RJD MP, Mohammad Shahabuddin, who is lodged in Siwan jail serving life-term.

The video of the meeting went viral on social media after someone shot the footage through a mobile inside the prison.



An inquiry was ordered into the episode to find out how a mobile device was taken inside the jail, besides who allowed the minister to meet the RJD leader.

Following submission of the probe report, Siwan jail superintendent was suspended.
An unofficial car race along the congested Mumbai-Pune Expressway on February 7 has been brought to the notice of the Maharashtra government, prompting the home minister to ask for the CCTV footage.





Veteran Congress MLC Anand Gadgil raised the issue at the state legislature, alleging that a bunch of luxury sedans registered in Karnataka and Bengal zipped along the expressway disregarding speed and safety restrictions. The expressway accounted for 1,580 accidents and 370 fatalities in the last three years.



This is serious. The government needs to act on it. They are playing with peoples lives, Gadgil told Deccan Herald on Monday, adding he was informed of such races happening on Sundays. Gadgil saw about 14 to 15 cars clipping at 150 km/hr along the expressway. I was shaken and my driver too was confused,

he said.
IT giant Dell on Monday announced selling its non-core IT consulting division to Japans NTT Data Corporation for $3.5 billion.





The move is widely seen as Dells efforts to bring down $43 billion debt accumulated after the acquisition of data storage company EMC Corp for a record $67 billion in October, last year.



Technology services company NTT Data said the acquisition will give the company greater access to North America and additional manpower of 28,000 to execute projects in healthcare IT, insurance and financial service consulting.



Besides expanding IT and BPO solution capabilities, the merger will increase NTTs infrastructure platform, with its present 230 data centres, expand its presence in the US, the UK and Australia through Dell Services.



In a letter to employees, Dell Services President Suresh Vaswani said the company signed a definitive agreement under which NTT Data will acquire Dell Services, including Dell Services Federal Government. Under the terms of the stock and asset purchase agreement executed by NTT Data and Dell, the former will acquire Dell Services through a complex combination of equity and asset transfers, he said.



NTT Data Corp President and CEO Toshio Iwamoto said the company is pleased with the unique opportunity to acquire such high-caliber talent, and a corporate culture that shares common values.



Dell Chairman and CEO Michael Dell said he is extremely proud of Dell Services solid growth and deep domain expertise. Our investments in digital services, application modernisation, tools, automation and as-a-service models, have enabled Dell Services customers to simplify their IT environment, said Dell.



Even though Dell wanted to get $5 billion during his initial stages of negotiation, he was compelled to sell it for $3.5 billion. Dell Services will have to renew few of its big accounts this year, and if it is not renewed will have bad business implications, analysts, who didnt want to be quoted, told Deccan Herald.


The legislators are not ready to settle for any building other than Carlton House, near Vidhana Soudha, to house their proposed Constitutional Club, which will serve as a recreational club.





The executive committee of the Constitutional Club comprising legislators, is insisting that the Carlton House building be handed over for the setting up of its proposed recreational club.



During the committees meeting on Monday, Latha Krishna Rau, Home Secretary

( in-charge) proposed that the committee could look at alternative buildings like the nearby Bharat Scouts and Guides building on Palace Road. The Carlton House currently houses the CID and its different wings. The committees proposal had been met with opposition because it is a heritage building.



Following the officers suggestion, the committee, headed by Legislative Assembly Speaker Kagodu Thimmappa on Monday visited to the Scouts and Guides building. The members have however rejected the officers proposal.



Congress MLA N A Haris, who is also the treasurer of the committee, said the Scouts building was not feasible. The Scouts and Guides has a 100-year history in that building. But thats not case with Carlton House.



Before housing the CID, it housed the MLAs hostel. We have rejected the Home Secretarys proposal. We have decided to appeal to the chief minister to give us some space in the city - preferably the Carlton House.



Everybody - IAS officesr, KAS officers and even journalists have their own recreational clubs. This issue is unnecessarily being made controversial. All we are asking for is a place where legislators can relax and interact with their colleagues, he added.



Haris said the committee has decided to adopt the format of the Constitutional Club in New Delhi. Each sitting member of both the Assembly and Council will be asked to pay a membership fee of Rs 10,000. Former legislators will also be charged.



BJP MLA C T Ravi said that the Scouts and Building was not feasible as it would disturb the children. It has already been finalised that the Club be set up at Carlton House. Now it is just a matter of procedure, he added.



On Monday, members including Ramesh Kumar, N Cheluvarayaswamy, and Tara Anuradha too accompanied the Speaker. Officials from PWD and the Assembly Secretariat too were present.


Co-operation Minister H S Mahadevaprasad on Monday said CID was in the final stage of investigating the misappropriation in the disbursal of gold loans by the Shivamogga District Credit Co-operative (DCC) Bank and that it would be inappropriate at this stage to hand over the case to any other investigation agency.





The minister was responding to demands by the BJP members in the Legislative Assembly that the case be handed over to the CBI as the misappropriation amount exceeded Rs 7.5 crore.



The case pertains to the District Credit Co-operative Banks Shivamogga city branch giving loans by accepting fake gold as collateral in 2014.



Lakshman Savadi (BJP) said the bank had given loans worth Rs 62 crore by accepting fake gold as collateral.



The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Nabard guidelines stipulate that any misappropriation case involving more than Rs 7.5 crore was to be handed over to the CBI.



The minister said the CID had almost completed its investigation and was on the verge of filing the charge sheet.



Intervening, Speaker Kagodu Thimmappa, who hails from Shivamogga said, The misappropriation case is a very shameful incident. The government should save itself embarrassment by sending a message that it is not succumbing to pressure. Take steps to ensure all the culprits are brought to book.


Joint general manager Kamaljit Singh Nagi of Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT) Limited tractor division committed suicide on Monday afternoon within the campus.





The deceased, a high-ranking official, was reportedly not paid his salary, like many other employees of HMT, for the past year. He was under stress and jumped off a water tank. The exact cause of his death is still unclear.



HMT Limited tractor division is a PSU located on the outskirts of capital city Chandigarh in Pinjore in Haryana. HMT faces closure and thousands of its employees will be rendered jobless even as the Centre is looking at lucrative options to compensate its employees.



Salary dues

HMT tractor division employees have purportedly not been paid salaries for a long time and the incident is being seen as a fallout of the crisis that this PSU has been reeling under for some time now. Vijay Bansal, advocate and president of the HMT Bachao Sangarsh Samithi said they will hold a protest march in front of the Haryana Assembly on Tuesday.



Over five decades after its inception, the massive tractor manufacturing unit of HMT is likely to be shut down amid protest and resistance from local leaders. It was the first unit to be established away from its Bengaluru factory way back in 1964. A communique from the Union Heavy Industries Minister Anant G Geete to the state government last December had asked Haryana to take over the entire land of the unit. This would come in lieu of settling dues of voluntary retirement of its employees and for dealing with other outstanding liabilities.



The ministrys response follows a communication by the state government which had asked the ministry to transfer surplus land of the unit to the state for creation of another industrial estate.

Now, in the wake of a different, perhaps, unexpected response from the Centre, the state government is viewing the matter afresh. But the decision to shut down may not be easy, given its political ramifications and effect it will have on the 1,800 employees.



HMT has been in the red for several years now and from a high production of nearly 19,000 tractors at one time in 1999, the production currently has dropped to about 10% of its optimum high production.

DH News Service
The BJP has developed an interesting formula on how to use Prime Minister Narendra Modi and partys president Amit Shah in Assam ahead of the first phase of polling to be held on April 4.





While Modi is focusing on development agenda and trying to be inclusive, Shah is brandishing BJPs anti-illegal migrant tirade in a bid to polarise votes.



On Monday, while addressing several rallies across the state, Shah accused the ruling Congress of not stopping illegal immigration and using the illegal migrants as its vote bank.



Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are coming here (to campaign for the Assam Assembly elections) ... I challenge the Congress president to say she will stop Bangladeshi infiltration ... She wont say it. Congress is using the Bangladeshi infiltrators as its vote bank, Shah said at a rally in Dhakuakona in Lakhimpur District of Upper Assam.



Govt of indigenous people

Shah further said that illegal immigration will end in Assam only when BJP and its allies come to power and establish a government of the indigenous people.



I want to ask Rahul Gandhi where Assam was put by Congress at the time of Independence and Partition. Jawaharlal Nehru had put Assam as Category D state.



During the Chinese aggression in the 1960s, it was Nehrus responsibility to stand with his soldiers and the people of Assam but he addressed the nation over All India Radio saying good bye Assam, good bye Assam, Shah said.



He also alleged that Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and AIUDF chief Badaruddin Ajmal have a tacit understanding. Bangladeshi infiltration continues, one crore people remain below the poverty line, there is no electricity to 30% of households, flood problem continues and there is shortage of drinking water supply.The Centre sends money to the state for development projects but the Congress government did not work for Assam, Shah further added.

DH News Service
A local court here on Monday granted bail for two faculty members and 25 students of the University of Hyderabad (UoH) who were arrested after the residence-cum-office complex of vice-chancellor Appa Rao Podile was ransacked on March 22.





The court, however, has asked the accused to deposit a surety of Rs 5,000 each and to appear before the station house officer of Gachibowli police station on every Saturday between 10 am and 1 pm. The public prosecutor did not oppose the bail plea.



Two faculty members, Dr Konda Yesu Ratnam (53), associate professor in department of Political Science, and Tathagatha Sengupta, assistant professor in department of Mathematics, and 25 students have been booked in three cases under Sections 147 (rioting), 452 (house trespass), 427 (mischief causing damage), 324 (voluntarily causing hurt), 506 (criminal intimidation), 353 (Assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty), 342(wrongful confinement), 332 (voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty) and 149 (unlawful assembly and guilty of offence), apart from Section 3 of Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.



At the Cherlappaly jail here, former AP governor Sushil Kumar Shinde, along with TPCC chief Uttam Kumar Reddy, met the students and faculty and enquired about their condition.



I was moved on seeing the wounds suffered during the brutal police attack. I demand the immediate arrest of vice-chancellor Appa Rao, said Shinde after meeting the students.

DH News Service



Chomsky demands release students

Nearly 350 academics, writers and activists in India and abroad including noted intellectual Noam Chomsky have signed a statement condemning the state violence and unlawful detention of students and faculty at the Hyderabad Central University, DHNS reports from New Delhi.
A PIL before the Supreme Court on Monday contended the High Court of Karnataka committed a legal blunder by admitting an appeal by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa in the disproportionate assets case, as any order with a sentence for less than 7 years is to be challenged through revision petition only.





Judges and lawyers are supposed to know the law and to seek proper legal remedy in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973. She (Jayalalithaa) was convicted and sentenced to 4 years only with fine (by the Bengaluru Special Court). So, the law requires to file the revision under Section 397/401 of the CrPC and not the criminal appeal under Section 374(2), as such an appeal can be filed if the sentence is 7 years or more, the petition filed by senior advocate Pt Parmanand Katara submitted.



The matter was listed before a bench of Justices Dipak Misra and Shiva Kirti Singh, which ordered it to be placed before a bench of Justices P C Ghose and Amitava Roy, already hearing a challenge by the Karnataka government against Jayalalithaas acquittal by the HC on May 11, last. Seeking direction to refer the matter to a 5-judge Constitution bench, the petitioner urged the court to declare the judgement and order of the HC null and void and violative of the fundamental right to equality and fair justice guaranteed under the Constitution.



The SC is likely to resume hearing on Tuesday the Karnataka governments special leave petition against the acquittal of Jayalalithaa, her former close aide Sasikala and two relatives, V N Sudhakaran and Elavarasi.
With work on the phase II of Namma Metro commencing, more than 150 properties are to be acquired for the project covering 11 km of the 72-km line.





The properties to be acquired are located between Baiyappanahalli metro station and Sathya Sai Medical Institute. The first phase of acquisition will be between Baiyappanahali and Mahadevapura and the second between Mahadevapura and Sathya Sai Institute.



Some of the important properties to be acquired include portions of land belonging to SAP Laboratories, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Medical Sciences, Karnataka Trade Promotion Organisation and a few buildings belonging to Lowry Memorial School.



There has been very little resistance this time from the owners of the properties to be acquired, as they happen to be small portions of land and small buildings.



A senior official of Namma Metro said: Much of the property the Metro is acquiring happen to be small portions of open land. Not too many major buildings are being acquired. This is one big reason why there has not been much resistance to acquisition.



Earlier, properties on the stretch between Mysuru Road station and Kengeri station had also been acquired. Here too resistance had been very less, not only because heavy properties are not being acquired, but also because the compensation has been good for the land acquired.



Namma Metro is said to have spent around Rs 100 crore for land acquisition along the Mysuru Road station and Kengeri station. People feel the compensation has been good and close to the market guidance value. Work has begun on the acquisition in the area between Kanakapura Road and Nice Road. Compensation is expected to be high for the stretches in phase II.



Compensation

A sum of Rs 5,000 crore has been set aside for compensation for the second phase acquisition.



The cost of acquisition will be borne by the State government and the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board will hand over the compensation to land owners.

The official said the basic work of utility shifting was yet to take place and then trees would be cut.



There has always been protests when it comes to cutting trees. We also need to convince civic activists that we will be planting saplings and trees in other areas to compensate for the loss of trees along the Baiyappanahalli-Whitefield stretch. This will take some time.



There will be a dialogue and a public hearing on tree cutting as well as road widening. Only after these approvals come through will the demolition of houses and offices begin. There is a lot of work to be done prior to building the piers. It is not something that can be done overnight. The public should understand that only after all these works will the actual work on the Metro begin, the official added.


The Central police have arrested 8 people for robbing Rs 4.24 lakh from a petrol bunk near National College in Basavanagudi recently. The suspects were identified as Mallesh, 34, from Chamarajpet and a native of Palya in Kollegal taluk; Nandish, 19, from Thyagarajnagar; Annappa, 27, from Karkiguddi in Kundapura taluk; Javaraiah, 36, of Chamarajpet and native of Talakad in T Narasipur taluk; Swamy, 24, Satish, 24, both from Bannerghatta and natives of Kaudalli in Kollegal taluk; Mohan, 25 of Bannerghatta and a native of Honnapura in Periyapatna taluk and Jayashankar, 26, of Vivekanandanagar in Mysuru.





They threatened the workers of Rajiv Filling Station on KR Road in VV Puram in the wee hours on March 20 and took away the cash, a mobile phone and a SIM card of another mobile phone.



Of the eight suspects, Mallesh and Nandish are the workers at the bunk and plotted the robbery. The duo joined the bunk a few months ago and were acquainted with the method of remitting the funds. They decided rob the bunk to make some fast buck. They connived with their other friends and hatched the conspiracy, added the police.



According to the plan, Mallesh and Nandish had left the windows of the bunk open and had slept on the night of March 19. The six suspects reached the bunk around 2.50 am, removed the window panes and four of them got into the room. They brandished lethal weapons and threatened the workers in the room with weapons.



The suspects directed the workers to show them the location of the cash counter.



They threatened to kill them if they did show the cash counter. One of the workers, Umesh, suffered minor injuries when he resisted, said the police.



The suspects took away Rs 4.24 lakh kept in an underground box, a mobile phone and the SIM card of another worker. They locked the room from outside and absconded. The police registered a case based on the complaint filed by the cashier Umesh.



The police suspected the involvement of insiders and questioned the workers. Mallesh and Nandish told the police they had opened the window as it was too hot and humid. The police did not buy their version and further interrogated. The two confessed to the crime and guided the police to the whereabouts of other suspects, said the police.



Another suspect, Indrajith, is still at large and he would be arrested soon, said the police.
BRUSSELS  Heavily armed police swept into Brussels neighborhoods Friday in operations linked to this weeks bombings as well as a suspected new plot in France, detaining three people and shooting two of them in the leg. One man was carrying a suspicious bag while accompanied by a young girl.

As Easter weekend began, jittery Europeans faced uncertainly about how many violent extremists remain at large, and where and when they might strike again.

On Friday afternoon, two blasts and gunfire rang out in the Schaerbeek district of Belgiums capital, where police earlier found explosives and bomb-making material in an apartment used by the suicide attackers who killed 31 people and wounded 270 in assaults on the Brussels airport and subway.

Authorities, meanwhile, confirmed one of the attackers at the airport was the bomb-maker who made explosive vests used in last years carnage in Paris  the most definitive link yet between the two attacks, both of which have been claimed by the Islamic State group.

On the third and final day of national mourning, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry laid a wreath at the airport for the victims of Tuesdays bombings  a ceremony that was skipped by Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel because of the police operations.

Kerry, in a hastily arranged visit, defended Belgiums counterterrorism efforts despite a series of security and intelligence failures before the bombings that have brought sharp criticism of top members of Belgiums embattled government. Authorities believe both the Brussels attacks and the Nov. 13 bombings in Paris that killed 130 people were plotted from Belgium.

Confirming that several FBI agents are involved in the investigation, Kerry said the carping about Belgiums shortcomings is a little bit frantic and inappropriate.

He also lashed out at the Islamic State group. We will not be deterred, he said. We will come back with greater resolve  with greater strength  and we will not rest until we have eliminated your nihilistic beliefs and cowardice from the face of the Earth.

As the identities of the victims began to be made public, officials announced that American, British, German, Chinese, Italian, French and Dutch citizens were among the dead.

A manhunt has been underway for one of the airport attackers who was recorded on a surveillance video and fled the scene. Prosecutors have not said how many attackers there were in total, or how many accomplices might be at large.

But they said Friday that DNA analysis and an official investigation had confirmed one of the suicide bombers at the airport was Najim Laachraoui, 24, a suspected bomb-maker whose DNA was also found on a suicide vest and bomb used in the Paris attacks. European security officials had earlier in the week confirmed his identity to The Associated Press, thus linking the Brussels and Paris bloodshed.

On Friday, dozens of heavily armed officers swept into Brussels Schaerbeek neighborhood, as well as the Forest and Saint-Gilles districts, the Belgian federal prosecutors office said. It was the second such raid in Schaerbeek in two days.

Officers began the operation about 1:30 p.m., when two big explosions echoed through Schaerbeek, resident Marie-Pierre Bouvez told the AP, and it lasted about two hours. It was not immediately clear if the blasts were controlled explosions.

Bouvez said police kept the area locked down and shouted at her to get back inside when she tried to go into the street.

Meanwhile, the top suspect in the Paris bombings, Salah Abdeslam, who was captured in Brussels a week ago, has stopped cooperating with police and no longer wants to talk, said Justice Minister Koen Geens.
It aint easy being green, critically endangered and hunted as a form of South American Viagra, but for 20 Lake Titicaca frogs, life should be less dangerous now that theyve found refuge at the Denver Zoo.

The new aquatic amphibians are the only ones in captivity in North America, and zoo staffers believe theyre the only Lake Titicaca frogs in the northern hemisphere.

The wrinkled frogs, which are found in the deep waters of their South American namesake, are the focus of a mass conservation effort the Denver Zoo is helping carry out on their home turf and across borders.

Not only will the frogs be bred in Denver, zoo staffers are also on the ground in Peru working to educate residents about the economic and cultural importance of the disappearing amphibians.

Were not necessarily just a zoo, said Thomas Weaver, assistant curator of reptiles and fishes at the zoo, as he pointed to animals in the tropical discovery exhibit. This is our showcase, but we do a lot of work across the world.

The zoos staff heard about the rapidly declining population of the Lake Titicaca frogs about five years ago and has since been waiting for the right moment to house some for a breeding program.

We didnt just want to go down there, take the frogs and leave, Weaver said. Were developing relationships and conservation efforts around the lake, too.

Peruvian people have long used the frogs in a shake they believe to improve mental clarity, boost fertility and mimic the drug Viagra, among other remedies.

Its their culture, said zoo outreach specialist James Garcia. Were trying to reach out to the people there and show them how important these animals are, not go in and tell them theyre wrong.

Mark Stetter, Colorado State Universitys dean of College and Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, said this cross-cultural approach is something zoos everywhere are embracing.

Zoos are not just collections of animals anymore, Stetter said. They really understand that conservation is more than that.

While Weaver said pinpointing a number of frogs left in the world was difficult, he estimated the population has decreased by 80 percent in the past 50 years.

To help the frogs while also helping the South American residents survive economically, Garcia reached out to a Peruvian artisan who is teaching locals to make Lake Titicaca frog-themed knitwear and crafts to sell instead of harvesting and selling the frogs.

How can you help people save a species if they need help feeding their family? Garcia said. Were creating alternative sources of income.

In addition to education and outreach about the frogs, the zoo is developing a breeding program and intends to give the frogs to other zoos across the country.

In November, 20 froglets that recently developed from tadpoles traveled from the Huachipa Zoo in Lima, Peru, to their new home in Denver.

Two frogs are on display in the tropical discovery exhibit, and more will be added as staffers perfect the tanks cold water temperature and water quality.

The frogs are famous for doing a kind of underwater push-up that sends oxygen through folds in their skin, meaning they dont have to travel to the surface for air. Folks eager for a peek at the rare amphibians will likely catch them resting in some rocks, floating through their 50-degree water or feasting on worms.

Its easy to get people excited about elephants and tigers, Garcia said. But dont forget about these little guys. Theyre crucial.

Garcia hoped to convey to Peruvians how connected humans and amphibians are.

Its all about the water, he said. These frogs are the canary in a coal mine.

Mine pollution runoff into Lake Titicaca, which can be hard for humans to detect, is another factor in the frogs declining numbers.

Theyre letting us know if they die off, that should be alarming to us, Garcia said. Thats our water, too.

To help study Lake Titicaca and its frogs, the zoo has enlisted the help of students from Longmonts Skyline High School.

Four boys interested in science and engineering are building a submarine-like robot with a camera inside designed to dive down into the lake and provide HD video of the areas humans cant reach.

Its very exciting to work firsthand with scientists and the zoo and collaborating with other people, said junior Marco Guerrero.

The students estimate the device will be completed by May and are in talks with the zoo about arranging a trip to Peru to see their work in action.

Its been a lot of fun, Guerrero said. I think this can develop my future career.

Elizabeth Hernandez: 303-954-1223, ehernandez @denverpost.com or @ehernandez
Denver firefighters battled a second-floor apartment blaze of uncertain origin, rescuing several trapped residents after others jumped.

Denver Health Medical Center ambulances carried multiple injured parties for treatment, Denver Fire Department spokesman Lt. Ahmid Nunn said.

Denver Health nurses said as many as 10 ambulances carried fire victims to the emergency room Sunday night.

The fire broke out shortly before 9:14 p.m. at the Federal View Apartments, 2625 Federal Boulevard. Several streets were blocked off in the area as crews battled the blaze.

It sounds like there were a few people who jumped and were injured. They had others trapped on the second floor, Nunn said.  Firefighters were able to extract them from that position and get them to safety.

Residents described people rescuing infants using blankets and tossing them out windows.

We were sleeping, Derae Sanchez said, standing with Eric Lomba outside the building.

Lomba said they heard yelling. He smelled an odor like wires burning and I see a bunch of smoke, Lomba said.

He, Sanchez and Joey Pacheco, all residents of the lower level, left with money and belongings to the street. Pacheco said the fire started on the third level.

Pacheco said he saw a father trying to crawl back in the burning building to rescue his infant children. He said firefighters tackled the father, but later rescued the babies.

The cause of the fire hadnt been determined. Firefighters had largely snuffed the flames by 9:40 p.m.

Some relatives rushed to the emergency room at Denver Health after hearing about the fire and residents jumping from the building.

Gene and Rosalie Ramirez came to the hospital to be there when their infant grandson arrived.

Their son had told them how the boys mother jumped from the second floor.

He thinks she might have broken her back, Gene Ramirez said.

The fire happened about a half block north of Denver fire station No. 12, and Denver Public Schools opened a nearby school for residents who were displaced.

Denver Health officials said late Sunday night six patients were in fair condition, three were in serious condition, and two were in critical condition.
On August 31, 1999, when Nvidia unveiled the GeForce 256, the company called it the "world's first GPU". According to Nvidia's website, "A GPU represents a significant breakthrough in realism. It literally transforms the way you interact with your PC. It accomplishes this by completely offloading all graphics acceleration from the CPU." In essence, a GPU is a specialised chip tasked with taking load off the CPU in order to deliver high level graphics. It was developed out of a need for such performance in computers, because a single chip couldn't perform every task that it was required to.

It was a turning point in computing, leading to a lot of features that we take for granted today. But as then, today we stand at the same hurdle once again: The need for specialised chips is again apparent, thanks in no small part to the obsolescence of Moore's Law. Until now, developments in the chip industry were driven by a prophecy made by Intel's co-founder Gordon Moore that has led us from the Intel 4004 (with around 2,300 transistors embedded) to the Intel Skylake, with approximately 1.75 billion transistors embedded on it.

"Moore's Law: Processing power doubles roughly every two years, as smaller and more transistors are packed on a silicon wafer. This boosts performance and reduces costs"

Death of Moore's law and the rise of VPUs

"Broadly speaking, yes," said Jack Dashwood, Marcom Director, Movidius, when asked whether the obsolescence of Moore's law plays a part in the rise of VPUs. "We are increasingly less reliant on the implicit benefits provided by moving down to a new process node. Purpose built processors and perhaps even more importantly, elegant marriage of software on top of the underlying silicon is going to be a huge source of improvements going forward, both from a technological and economic perspective."

Movidius is a small chip startup that you've most probably not heard of, yet. It's a European company that currently produces specialised chips known as Vision Processing Units (VPUs). The chips are meant for application in areas like Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and others. Movidius' Myriad 2 chip is running on the recently-announced DJI Phantom 4 drone, and its Myriad 1 chip was used in Google's first Project Tango device. Dashwood explains that while Movidius is a decade-old company, it turned its attention to VPUs in 2009, with Google's first Project Tango phone being the first instance of its chips being implemented. The Myriad 1 and Myriad 2 are high-performance, low-power chips, meant specifically for Computer Vision.

The failure of Moore's Law has led companies to look at new methods of adding more computing power, and chips such as the Myriad 2 make for one of the most promising avenues. VPUs, like the Myriad 2, don't sound like much, but like GPUs they come out of a specific need for computer vision. Computer Vision is a branch of computing that deals with processing and understanding real world elements and images. It is the technology behind myriad augmented reality apps that you see today (like Blippar, for instance). It's also important in intelligent drones and robots that can navigate around and interpret real world objects by themselves.

"GPUs are actually quite a good analogy. In the early 1990s, people realised that 3D gaming and visualisation was going to be hugely important for both commercial as well as consumer purposes, but existing architectures were not well suited to the types of computation required for rich graphics. In a similar vein, we are now keenly aware of the value of computer vision, but much of the existing hardware and software approaches aren't optimised for such tasks," said Dashwood.

"VPUs are to Computer Vision, what GPUs are to gaming and graphics"

Obstacles to overcome

Using a specialised chip for a particular purpose is easier said than done. Gamers usually use complex liquid cooling techniques in order to meet the heat requirements that GPUs come with. But, while GPUs were originally meant for PCs where there was enough space to implement such cooling methods, VPUs do not enjoy that luxury. They are meant for drones, smartphones and other smaller devices, becoming an integral part of the mobile environment that the world is rapidly progressing towards.

According to Dashwood, that problem has already been solved. "The Myriad 2 has been developed from the ground up to run in a low power envelope, and at temperatures low enough that they can be embedded on wearable devices." The Myriad 2 can process millions of pixels, while consuming less than one watt of power. This is significantly lower than the power consumed by smartphone processors today and necessary for a chip that is supposed to run alongside those processors. In essence, while the multi-core processor on your phone will be responsible for fast boot-up of an augmented reality app, the VPU will be responsible for what that app does, he said.

Heat isn't the only hurdle, though. The problem with implementing specialised chips is that its harder to program for them. Dashwood explained that the Myriad 2 is aimed at device manufacturers who are competent in this realm. Programmability of the chip should not be confused with end-applications running on Android OS.

The computing industry is no stranger to specialised logic. Intel's newest chips have special programming meant for videos and other tasks; MediaTek's Helio chips come with CorePilot algorithm to improve performance; Qualcomm, the biggest name in smartphone SoCs, recently introduced a bunch of enhancements made to its chips using specialised algorithms. In its data centres, Microsoft uses a specialised FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) chip for Bing. The company told The Economist that it has doubled the number of queries a server can process in a given time. Given the DJI Phantom 4's proficiency in obstacle avoidance and Google's recent showcase of Project Tango devices, it looks like the industry has overcome this hurdle as well.

Lastly, Dashwood says that VPUs take almost no discernible space, which makes them easier to implement in smaller devices such as smartphones and smartwatches. "The additional sensors often involved are much larger considerations when it comes to space," Dashwood said.

Application in Virtual Reality

While the implementation of VPUs in augmented reality is apparent, the industry today has been primarily focused on virtual reality. For starters, VPUs can help make a VR headset less bulky, Dashwood believes. More importantly, it can add hundreds of ways for Virtual Reality applications to interact with the real world. Room-scaling in HTC's Vive headset is one example of how virtual reality can work in conjunction with the real world. Think of this as a union between Virtual and Augmented Reality. What if the virtual space was built around your real space?

VPUs can help in "all sorts of areas", says Dashwood. He lists positional tracking, gesture, environment mapping, eye tracking and object classification as a few examples. These are some of the essential components of Virtual Reality today. If your environment can be effectively mapped, then the virtual reality space that a headset like the Oculus Rift takes you to can be built around it. This means that if you're in your living room, your Minecraft game will be built based on things in the room. Thinking back to the legendary Age of Empires games, imagine players in a single house, building their empires in separate rooms of the house, while the doorways act as borders between their empires.

Microsoft's Hololens is another area where VPUs can come in handy. The augmented reality headset seems to be one of the best things to have come out of Microsoft's stables recently, and it essentially depends on recognising the real world and then overlaying the virtual on top of it.

"VPUs are not just possible for VR, they're almost essential"

Application in smartphones

VR is still about a year or so away from truly coming to the mainstream, and consumers today are still more focused on smartphones. A very interesting possibility for VPUs in smartphones is in improving cameras on them. "Computational photography is an obvious application," says Dashwood, "there are great deal of ways of working around the physical limitations of optics running on various operations, to construct a visually pleasing photograph." According to him, computational photography has the potential to bring DSLR (or better) quality images to our smartphones.

In essence, the fact is that Computer Vision allows your smartphone to understand the scene in front of you. A photograph can be passed through additional processing, adding inputs from the VPU to generate more realistic representations.

This could help in two things -- first, enhancing camera quality without making your phone thicker. One of the main reasons why smartphones cannot attain DSLR-like quality lies in their space constraints. You cannot fit large enough lenses or sensors into them. VPUs, potentially, can solve this. Secondly, it could also improve low-light photography, a major area of focus for smartphone OEMs. While a lot of advancements have been made by companies like Apple and Samsung, low light remains the bane for smartphone cameras, and VPUs may help here as well.

We have reached out to some OEMs to get their take on the use of VPUs for such purposes. The story will be updated when their response is available.

Brains and Brawns

Perhaps the most interesting and potentially scary implementation of VPUs lies in machine learning. A neural network of machine learning algorithm replicates the human brain, which means that a VPU can act as the eyes for that brain. On January 27, 2016, Movidius announced that it is working with Google to accelerate the adoption of deep learning within mobile devices. The partnership gives Movidius access to Google's neural network technology roadmap, while the Search giant will source Movidius' processors and entire software development network.

"What Google has been able to achieve with neural networks is providing us with the building blocks for machine intelligence, laying the groundwork for the next decade of how technology will enhance the way people interact with the world," said Blaise Aguera y Arcas, head of Google's machine intelligence group. Arcas said, working with Movidius allowed Google to expand its technology out of data centres and into the real world. Google is using MA2450, the most powerful iteration of Movidius' Myriad 2 chip for this purpose. According to Remi El-Ouazzane, CEO, Movidius, the challenge in embedding the technological advances that Google has made in machine intelligence is in extreme power efficiency. This needs deep synthesis between the underlying hardware architecture, and that is where neural computer comes in.

In an interview with Digit, David Silver, Research Scientist on Google's Deep Mind, said that it is early days for Artificial Intelligence and we are "decades away from human level AGI". Silver heads the team that developed Deep Mind's AlphaGo algorithm, which recently beat Go champion Lee Sedol in a best-of-five tournament. Dashwood says that machine learning and VPUs go hand-in-hand.

"VPUs will, in future, make for an integral part of artificially intelligent robots, working as the eyes for the neural networks to work with"

The booming market

To add the proverbial cherry on the cake, Computer Vision and VPU markets are at a nascent stage, but is booming. Google and DJI are two of the best-known names, but there are others exploring these avenues. Dashwood says that currently, Movidius is the only viable solution that presents low power, low thermal characteristics and high performance.

According to him, the company's chief competitors come from the GPU and CPU market, as in some cases, they may make for viable solutions for Computer Vision requirements. "In some instances, a CPU or GPU might make for a viable solution for high performance, OR, low power, OR, low thermal characteristics...but all three at the same time? We think we are the only viable solution right now," said he.

The Movidius MA2450 mentioned above is the only commercial solution for computer vision in the market today. While VPUs won't offset chipmakers like Qualcomm, MediaTek and Intel, and they won't compete against Nvidia and AMD in the GPU segment either. Instead, they're creating a whole new segment for themselves.
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 left us massively impressed on the overall sense, but its camera performance left us wanting for more. Xiaomis smartphones have held a reputation for commendable imaging performance in the past, and with the Redmi Note 3 excelling on most grounds, the lack of refinement in imaging performance was distinctly noticeable. In light of this, in came the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus( 6199 at amazon). Priced significantly lesser than the Redmi Note 3, the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus houses a 13MP CMOS BSI sensor. The Redmi Note 3, meanwhile, is powered by a 16MP Samsung S5K3P3 ISOCELL sensor. How do these fare, across same situations? Read on.

Camera app performance

Xiaomis own camera app, on an overall sense, is simply better to use in terms of ergonomics and ease of usage. It support touch shutter on focus point, which helps when you are shooting with one hand. On the other hand, Lenovos camera app has a more traditional layout of settings. In terms of shutter response, the Redmi Note 3 is simply faster and more accurate than the K5 Plus. The Redmi Note 3s camera app is simply more responsive, and beats the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus easily.



Camera apps: (L) Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, (R) Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus

Image galleries

Daylight performance

We shot multiple images under daylight conditions, including shadow, direct sunlight and close-up under direct sunlight. The primary difference between the two sensors reflect in the sharpness of the images. Images clicked by the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 are much sharper, and colour contrast and saturation levels are richer than the photos clicked by the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus. Despite the vibrant colours, the noise levels in the photographs clicked by both are jarring to really term either of them great.

The colours, despite appearing similar, are less warmer on the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus. As a result, the Vibe K5 Plus has a more flat colour reproduction, misses the slightly accentuated contrast levels on the Redmi Note 3's captured images. Due to the lack of sharpness, images appear softer and noisier than the Redmi Note 3. Overall, Xiaomi takes the cake for being the better performer, albeit with much compromise.

Indoor performance

While shooting indoors, the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus performed decently in simpler mis-en-scene under bright ambience. The major deterrent here for the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus is the lack of sharpness in photographs, that will almost certainly not leave you any room for post-processing and cropping.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, meanwhile, shoots sharper images along with a warmer colour tone. It is not the most accurate colour reproduction, but will appeal to many. Noise is a constant deterrent, although the higher megapixel count on this camera is a visible advantage over the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus. The only area where the Vibe K5 Plus pleased us is while shooting in warm ambience - the camera balanced the amount of warmth in the photograph, to present a pleasant tone. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3, with its slightly accentuated sense of saturation and contrast, leads to marginally harsher amber ambience on photos. The algorithms on Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus perform better here. In terms of colour, we found both comparable, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 wins here only by virtue of better sharpness.

Low light

If the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 disappoints with its low light performance, the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus disappoints even further. Neither click anything worth mentioning in poorly lit situations, and the Vibe K5 Pluss low light performance borders on being really, really poor. For both the cameras, the level of noise in photographs totally distort colours and details, and it is safe to say that photographs clicked in low light situations are hard to be presented even under acceptable, casual circumstances.

Verdict

On an overall note, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 is undoubtedly the better shooter one. However, it is far from good. For the most part, the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus performs decently close to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 in well-lit situations, and as a standalone unit that is nearly Rs. 3,500 cheaper than the Redmi Note 3, the imaging performance is acceptable. When it comes to low light, neither are really acceptable, and youll probably use the camera in low light situations only when you really, really have no other choice.

However, the richer contrast and saturation levels, along with good colour accuracy and lesser noise levels, do come into account while talking about camera performance. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 is significantly more expensive than the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus, but for anyone hoping for a reasonably decent camera performance to go with their smartphone, the Lenovo Vibe K5 Plus is not the device to choose.

Buy Lenovo vibe k5 plus at Rs.8499 on Flipkart
OSU defense dominates, offense revs up late in 54-10 rout of Iowa

Overcoming a sluggish start by its offense, Ohio State pulled away for a 54-10 victory over Iowa.
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HACKENSACK, N.J. (AP)  The family of a 7-year-old boy who was killed last year at school when a bench from a folding table attached to a wall fell on him has filed a $10 million lawsuit.

Brendan Jordan's family filed the lawsuit last week in Hackensack, The Record newspaper reported last week. The suit accuses the New Milford School District, the borough's police department and other parties of acting negligently by failing to properly maintain the bench and failing to properly supervise the young athletes.





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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.
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.
MV Origin launches in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Lean, green and offering an unsurpassed level of comfort, cruising vessel MV Origin has set sail on voyages of discovery around the Galapagos islands. The newest and only ship of its kind, MV Origin has been built by the award-winning sustainable travel experts Ecoventura, and is positioned to redefine passengers' cruising experience by combining modern sophistication with environmental responsibility.

This 20-passenger mega-yacht features 10 deluxe staterooms, locally inspired gourmet food, a Jacuzzi and fitness centre. The MV Origin offers expansive indoor and outdoor social and observation areas, allowing for easy and comfortable viewing of the islands' unique scenery and topography. High quality guided land excursions can be taken in very small groups, and guests can also enjoy a dose of intellectual science from the team of expert Galapagos guides.

Passengers will not only see the Galapagos in style, but they will know it has been built with green concerns in mind, with water saving measures including reusable plastic bottles, a specially designed water treatment plan and ecological toilets means the Origin will not dispose of any untreated greywater or blackwater into the ocean. The ship is also designed with a curved bow allowing a smoother cruise, increased fuel efficiency and less drag, allowing the ship to use fuel more efficiently.

The MV Origin alternates between seven-night A & B itineraries to reduce the impact of visits to the Galapagos islands' most popular sites. Both itineraries include daily, personalized excursions with optional snorkel and kayak tours led by two onboard, certified naturalists.

Itinerary A Highlights

Pinnacle Rock on Bartolome

All three boobies (Nazca, Blue and Red Footed)

Great and Magnificent Frigatebirds

Snorkel with Galapagos penguins

Giant tortoises in the highlands

Waived Albatross on Espanola

Kayak and swim with sea lions at Cerro Brujo and Gardner Bay

Itinerary B Highlights

Galapagos Tortoises in the highlands

Red Footed and Nazca Booby at Genovesa (Tower)

Snorkeling with penguins on Isabela

Volcanic formations of Fernandina

Flightless Cormorant

Kayak at Darwin Bay and Tagus Cove

Whale and dolphin sightings

Examples of tour operator packages including a cruise on the MV Origin:

Sunvil Traveller,(sunvil.co.uk.) which specialises in carefully crafted adventure trips to Central and South America offers a 10 night trip to Ecuador including 2 nights in Quito (BB) and a 7 night cruise on the MV Origin (FB) from  6,397 per person. The price is based on two adults sharing a cabin and includes all meals and drinks on board, Captain's welcome and farewell cocktail private transfers, guided Quito city tour and return economy international flights with KLM from London Heathrow (via Amsterdam). An extensive network of regional flights are also available.

Audley Travel (audleytravel.com) can arrange a 10 day itinerary to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands including 2 nights at Casa Gangotena in Quito and a 7 night cruise on board the MV Origin from 7285 per person. Price is based on 2 adults sharing and includes all flights and taxes, transfers, a private tour of Quito, all meals and drinks on board the Galapagos cruise, entrance fee to the Galapagos National Park and Captain's welcome and farewell cocktail. Itineraries can also be arranged around the MV Origin's designated family departures.

Or book direct with Ecoventura at ecoventura.com.
FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler on Tuesday announced a US$2.25 billion plan to expand the federal Lifeline subsidy program to help low-income consumers afford broadband Internet service.

Lifeline, which currently allows low-income consumers to buy mobile phone service at a discount, would let them buy standalone broadband starting Dec. 1 for $9.25 per month or apply the discount to bundled services. The minimum standard would be 500 MB at 3G speed, increasing to 2 GB by the end of 2018.

Only half the nations households in the lowest income tier subscribe to broadband at home, and 43 percent of all people who dont subscribe cite affordability as the reason, according to Wheeler and Commissioner Mignon Clyburn.

Forty-four percent of low-income consumers have been forced to cancel or suspend services because of financial constraints, they said. Among consumers whose only Internet access is through a smartphone, 48 percent have been forced to cancel or shut off service temporarily because of financial burdens.

Continuing Reforms

About 39.7 million households are eligible for the program, FCC spokesperson Mark Wigfield said.

The participation rate is about 32 percent in the Lifeline program, or about 13 million people, he told the E-Commerce Times.

The proposed change, which is subject to a March 31 vote by the full commission, builds on several administrative reforms launched in 2012 for the existing Lifeline program. The plan would have a monthly broadband allowance of 150 GB and fixed speed standard of 10 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload.

The plan is to phase out the subsidy for mobile voice by 2019, because the standard for that is moving toward voice over LTE. That is similar to what Vonage offers, where users talk over the high-speed Internet connection instead of a mobile voice plan, he added.

The new plan would make it easier for legitimate broadband providers to enter the Lifeline program and removes unnecessary administrative regulations to make sure a wider range of companies can participate, the FCC said. It also would establish a third-party entity, called the National Eligibility Verifier, to verify that consumers using the program are eligible to participate.

It would use existing government programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, which are prescreened, to determine eligibility for customers in order to reduce fraud. Reforms in 2012, including the National Lifeline Accountability Database, have decreased annual lifeline payouts by 30 percent, Wheeler and Clyburn said.

Expanded Access

Companies such as Google already have taken steps to expand broadband competition and access to low-income communities.Google Fiber operates in Kansas City, Missouri; Provo, Utah; Austin, Texas; and Atlanta and is expanding into Salt Lake City; San Antonio; Nashville, Tennessee; and Charlotte and Raleigh-Durham, N.C., spokesperson A.T. Williams said.

The company is in talks with several other major cities, including Los Angeles and Chicago, he told the E-Commerce Times.

Google also participates in a Department of Housing and Urban Development program called ConnectHome, which launched last month in Kansas City and connects Gigabit Internet service to public housing residents for free.

Infrastructure Needed

The FCC plan should aggregate the $9.25 subsidy into grants that can be used to build wireless infrastructure in low-income communities, saidCraig Settles, a technology analyst who specializes in broadband issues.

That way, communities get to own the infrastructure and the service, and the grants could provide seed money for a more substantial hybrid wireless and wired infrastructure, he told the E-Commerce Times. And you reduce a lot of the fraud and waste so many people complain about.

The FCC should encourage nonprofit organizations to be part of the solution, Settles added, pointing to a program calledMobile Beacon, which has 75 library systems participating throughout the country.

As part of that program, the New York Public Library loans more than 10,000 mobile hotspots to patrons.

Skills Gap

The proposed changes are a significant step to opening up broadband access to far more low-income Americans, according toPublic Knowledge, which noted that half of households making less than $25,000 have no Internet service.

However, there still is a critical skills gap that makes broadband access out of reach for many low-income families, said Phillip Berenbroick, counsel for government affairs at the group.

That is why Lifeline modernization needs to be coupled with community engagement and outreach efforts to promote digital relevancy and digital literacy and why the FCCs modernization efforts should encourage widespread provider participation, he told the E-Commerce Times.

The FCC plan is a positive development, but it needs to be coupled with additional steps to increase competition for smaller communities, according toFree Press, a digital advocacy group that has fought for greater competition in rural parts of the country.

Letting a handful of companies control last-mile access to Internet users drives the cost of a connection far beyond the reach of many lower-income communities, said Matt Wood, policy director at Free Press. If the commission wants to increase affordability, it must address the lack of competition.
The legal battle between Apple and the Department of Justice over access to encrypted iPhone data got a little more personal last week after lawyers for Apple blasted a government filing that accused the company of collaborating with the Chinese government.

The DoJs filing was nothing more than a smear campaign designed to paint a false picture of Apples lack of cooperation in the investigation, as well as its relationship with the Chinese government, and it was based on flimsy sources, Apple attorney Bruce Sewell argued in a conference call with reporters.

In 30 years of practice, I dont think Ive ever seen a legal brief that was more intended to smear the other side with false accusations and innuendo, and less intended to focus on the real merits of the case, he told reporters, according to a transcript provided by Apple.

The government for the first time alleged that Apple deliberately made changes to block law enforcement requests for access, Sewell said.

Chinese Democracy

Based on Apples data, the Chinese government demanded information from the company on more than 4,000 iPhones in the first half of 2015, according to the court filing, and Apple produced data in 74 percent of the cases.

Apple made special accommodations to the Chinese government by moving Chinese user data to government servers and installing a different WiFi protocol, called WAPI, for Chinese iPhones, the document states.

The U.S. governments request involves a single iPhone that was used by one of the shooters in the San Bernardino, California, terrorist attack. It does not involve a broadly ordered compromise of other iPhones in other cases, according to the filing.

The request for access to the encrypted data does not place an undue burden on Apple, the document states, adding that the company would need to provide six to 10 employees for two to four weeks to develop a software solution to help government investigators bypass the built-in encryption.

Apple has more than 100,000 employees and annual income exceeding US$200 billion, the court filing notes.

A hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheri Pym is scheduled for March 22.

Can of Worms

Privacy and civil liberties analysts blasted the government filing as a mischaracterization of Apples position and its history of balancing national security interests with its own corporate responsibilities.

Apple has responded to information requests from countries around the world, not just in China, said Eli Dourado, director of the Technology Policy Program at George Mason UniversitysMercatus Center.

Its recent transparency report documented iCloud data requests from 36 different countries, including both the United States and China. If Apple is forced to create a backdoor because of a U.S. court order, it will be forced to do the same for other governments around the world. Other countries have courts too, you know, Dourado told the E-Commerce Times.

Its a desperate ploy  a bit shameful, actually, Jennifer Stisa Granick, director of civil liberties at the StanfordCenter for Internet and Society, told the E-Commerce Times.

The government continues to ignore the implications of the order on other technology companies, charged theAmerican Civil Liberties Union, which filed a brief on behalf of Apple in the case.

The government tries to characterize this case as about one phone, rather than acknowledging that the precedent could be used over and over to force technology companies to undermine their security measures for law enforcement purposes in a broad range of contexts, said ACLU attorney Esha Bhandari.

The government also suggests that its somehow improper for a technology company to create secure devices, she added, when in fact that should be encouraged as a critical component of cybersecurity and privacy rights.
Google, which lags far behind Amazon and Microsoft in the cloud infrastructure services space, last week released a slew of machine learning and analytics products and services.

The Cloud Machine Learning platform provides access through REST APIs to the technologies powering Google Now, Google Photos and voice recognition in Google Search.

The tools are designed to let users build predictive analytics models with their own training data through the open source TensorFlow machine learning library.

Cloud Machine Learning will take care of everything from data ingestion to prediction, Google said.

It is well integrated with other Google Cloud Platform products such as Cloud Dataflow, BigQuery, Cloud Dataproc, Cloud Storage and Cloud Datalab, the company said.

More About the Tools

Google also released a full set of APIs that let apps see, hear and translate.

It added new services and capabilities to Cloud Dataproc, its managed Apache Hadoop and Apache Spark service.

The company also added the following features to its BigQuery analytics data warehouse: Long Term Storage, which automatically cuts the price of storage 50 percent after 90 days;

Capacitor storage engine, which accelerates many queries by up to 10x;

Poseidon, a mechanism that improves data ingest and export speed 5x;

Direct query and import of Apache AVRO files;

Automatic schema detection of JSON and CSV files; and

Public Datasets Program, which lets users host, share and analyze public data sets.

Automatic Table Partitions, which lets users partition tables by date and query the date ranges they want, will be added to BigQuery soon, Google said.

All of the features will be sent to users automatically without any upgrades or downtime.

Google is continuing to develop its Tensor machine learning system. TensorFlow Serving can be used with Kubernetes, another Google open source project, to scale and serve machine learning models.

Apache Beam, a new project on the Apache Incubator, lets users define data processing pipelines that can execute in either streaming or batch mode. It consists of a dataflow model, SDKs and runners submitted by Google and partnersCloudera,Talend andData Artisans.

The Google Cloud Vision API has entered beta and is available to anyone.

Getting its Act in Gear

Amazon Web Services had 31 percent of the global cloud infrastructure services market in 2015, according toSynergy Research. Microsoft came in second with 9 percent, followed by IBM with 7 percent, and Google with 4 percent.

Finally, Googles taking the enterprise battle for the cloud seriously, and its not too late to compete, said Al Hilwa, a research program director at IDC Seattle.

AWS and [Microsoft] Azure have been more enterprise focused and have garnered early leadership, he told the E-Commerce Times, but the situation is fluid, and its definitely early days.

However, Googles efforts come five years too late, noted Trip Chowdhry, managing director atGlobal Equities Research.

Both AWS and Azure are miles ahead, and Google will be in perpetual catchup mode, he told the E-Commerce Times. Its all song and dance, announce and forget, as Google has been doing since 2011.

The Features That Really Rock

The machine learning platform and TensorFlow, in particular, have the most potential to bring about significant change in the computing world, noted Carl Brooks, an analyst at451 Research. There are extraordinary insights to be gained from playing with data tensors, and Google is making it very easy to do so.

The major commercial application of this kind of machine learning is advertising, and Googles got that locked up, he told the E-Commerce Times. But the potential is vast: weather, traffic, populations, scientific exploration  you name it.

The Public Datasets platform is interesting because if enough of these open databases eventually are added to the platform, it would be a significant hub of undiscovered information, Brooks said.

The focus on maturing platform technologies such as Node.js, Kubernetes, machine learning, DataFlow and many new capabilities being added to support developers who are demanding DevOps capabilities embedded in every feature, Hilwa said, are the biggest indicators in Googles announcement of how seriously it is taking the battle for enterprise cloud services.
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(Photo: REUTERS / Khuram Parvez)A soldier escorts schoolchildren after they were rescued from the Army Public School that is under attack by Taliban gunmen in Peshawar, December 16, 2014. Taliban gunmen in Pakistan took hundreds of students and teachers hostage on Tuesday in a school in the northwestern city of Peshawar, military officials said. More than 100 school pupils were killed along with teachers in the attack.

In a March of madness, Pope Francis and the head of the World Council of Churches have once again condemned brutal and cowardly attacks on innocent people, this time on Easter Sunday in Pakistan where a suicide bomber's blast killed at least 70 people in a children's park.

In St. Peter's Square, the Pope on March 28 called for pilgrims in St. Peter's Square to pause for a moment of prayer for the victims of the terrorist attack in Lahore, Pakistan, calling the attack the day before a "reprehensible" and "senseless crime" saying it "bloodied" Easter.

Dearly suicide-bombing attacks, carried out by perpetrators claiming to represent Islam, killing many people, have already been carried out during March in Turkey, Belgium and Iraq.

The World Council of Churches' general secretary, Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, called the attack shocking and brutal, urging Pakistan's government to ensure that its communities can be better protected against fanatics.

Pope Francis said, "I appeal to the civil authorities and to all the social components of [Pakistan] to do everything possible to restore security and peace to the population and, in particular, to the most vulnerable religious minorities," the Pope continued.

"I repeat, once again, that violence and murderous hatred lead only to pain and destruction; respect and fraternity are the only way to achieve peace," Francis said.

The suicide bomber killed more than 70 people and wounded more than 300. This was the second attack within two years singling out children.

Pakistan is still scarred by its deadliest ever extremist attack in which Taliban gunmen killed more than 150 people at a school in Peshawar in 2014, the majority of them students.

A splinter group of the Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack that targeted Christian families celebrating Easter Sunday in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in Lahore. The victims of this attack were predominantly children and women, and included Muslims as well as members of the Christian community.

"This attack is particularly shocking, in the first place because there seems to have been a clear intention deliberately to target young children who were simply enjoying themselves in the freedom of the park," said the WCC's Tveit.

"Second, the timing of the attack also appears to have been intended to strike against Pakistan's vulnerable Christian minority on one of the most sacred days in the Christian calendar."

HISTORIC CENTER OF CHRISTIANITY IJ PAKISTAN

The evening explosion went off near children's rides and a parking area in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in the eastern city of Lahore, the historic center of Christianity in Pakistan. The area was crowded with people celebrating the Easter holidays, and many families were leaving the park when the blast occurred.

In March 2015, Pope Francis had called for the world to stop hiding persecution of Christians while condemning two attacks during Sunday services by suicide bombers on a Catholic church and an Anglican church in Pakistan that killed 17 people and injured scores.

The government of Punjab province, where the attack took place, declared three days mourning.

Christians are a tiny minority where Muslims make up 96 percent of Pakistan's population of almost 200 million people, accounting for an estimated 1.6 percent of the population.

They have often been targeted by people who use the country's blasphemy laws against Islam, which carry a maximum death penalty sentence, to target them.

Paksitan's government has often been criticized for allowing Islamic schools or madrassas to carry on preaching hatred and extremism.

In his statement Tveit underlined stressed that "The principle of freedom of religion and belief for all people must be affirmed and protected in Pakistan, and throughout the world, as a fundamental ethical and legal responsibility of government.

"Any reference to violence in the name of religion or motivated by religion is particularly unacceptable and dangerous."
Eleventh grader Alexis VanAlstyne kicked off her shoes and plopped into a blue beanbag chair in the computer lounge at the Integrated Arts and Technology High School, one of four schools in a mammoth brick building that takes up nearly an entire city block.

Balancing a Dell Chromebook on her knees, VanAlstyne quickly found the shared Google document that she and four other classmates had been using for a social studies assignment on the lives of W.E.B. DuBois and Booker T. Washington.

Behind her, about a dozen 7th graders pored over printed assignment packets and Chromebooks for an algebra class. Others huddled in groups at small tables around the room, while some worked independently.

This 30,000-student district on the shore of Lake Ontario wants all of its schools to look like a version of the scene here at Integrated Technology within the next three years: a hub of activity, students taking responsibility for their learning, with teachers acting as guides.

To make that possible, the district is banking on an ambitious 1-to-1 computer initiative, which is set to start this fall and to continue over the next three academic years. At the same time, it is creating a suite of professional development courses to help teachers and principals radically change their teaching methods. To bring it all off, the district has been reshuffling and integrating its academic and technology teams to better blend expertise and responsibility for the effort.

One-to-one computing programs are not novel. But the education landscape is littered with examples of similar initiatives that have failed to live up to their lofty goals because of a disconnect between academics and technology. Rochesters approachincluding the phased rollout, experimentation with different devices in a variety of classes and settings, and working with the teaching and learning side around academic goals and digital curriculumrecognizes the districts awareness of earlier pitfalls and attempts to avoid making similar mistakes.

Rochester School District  Location: Rochester, N.Y.

 School System Size: 27,000 Students

We really want to see a transformation in the way that the technology is utilizedas a way for students to synthesize knowledge, and to produce new knowledge, and to share their knowledge with the world, Jennifer Gkourlias, the districts chief of curriculum and school programs, said. That, to us, would be the reflection of a true transformation.

Pilot Effort

A small 1-to-1 pilot at four high schools offers a window into the districts future. The program will widen in September, when six 7th-12th grade high schools will be added. Those students will be able to take the computers home the following year. Students in Pre-K-2nd grades will get more iPads and Chromebooks to use while on campus. Additional Chromebooks on mobile carts will also be added in the 3rd-6th grades.

Rochester first decided to move to a 1-to-1 program about four years ago, recognizing that the era of online testing was upon it and that technology had become an essential part of students lives.

The district, in which the four-year graduation rate hovers around 51 percent, also wanted to increase virtual and online credit-recovery courses, broaden student engagement, and help teachers who were already experimenting with blended learning and flipped classrooms, said Annmarie Lehner, the districts chief information technology officer.

Having clear goals and ensuring that everyone knows the districts vision are as important as choosing the device in a 1-to-1 program, said Michael Gielniak, the chief operating officer at the Michigan-based One-to-One Institute.

Getting buy-inreal ownershipof that vision at all levels, and in all of our different segments is very crucial, Gielniak said. So, if every principal, and every teacher, and every custodianif everybody shares that vision and the superintendent leaves, then the ship is going to continue to go in the same direction.

Collaboration Is High Priority

Such an undertaking must be jointly owned by the technology and academic departments, said Tom Ryan, the chief executive director of eLearn Institute and the former chief information officer in Albuquerque, N.M., who is helping Rochester put together a professional development plan.

While the Rochester program started in the technology department, Lehner said that the planning has become a team project. (In a district where superintendents, top central office staff, and principals change frequently, Lehner has the longest tenure of any of the top officials working on the 1-to-1 program.)

Since she took over as the deputy superintendent of teaching and learning in August 2014, Christina Otuwa has restructured the teaching and learning department to make the collaboration between the academic and technology departments easier.

Last year, she appointed Gkourlias, who was then the chief of teaching and learning, as chief of curriculum and school programs, with other divisions in the department reporting to Gkourlias. Gkourlias also became the key point of contact between the technology and academic teams, Otuwa said.

On the technology side, Lehner is aided by the chief executive director of instructional technology, Glen Van Derwater, a former teacher and school administrator, and a team of instructional technology teachers, who develop professional development classes for teachers and model lessons for teachers on how to infuse technology into the curriculum.

Managing A Rollout The digital curriculum focus group meets biweekly to monitor the 1-to-1 initiative. Source: Education Week

Before embarking on the pilot program, a team from Rochester, including the principals and the teachers from the two pilot schools, visited the Miami-Dade district in Florida to study that districts virtual and 1-to-1 programs and blended-learning labs.

Teachers in the pilot schools took professional-development classes that summer in basics like using Google Classroom and more advanced offerings like running flipped classrooms.

Designing Digital Curricula

Rochester has dedicated this school year as the programs planning year. A digital curriculum focus group, made up of Lehner, Gkourlias, Van Derwater, directors of core areassuch as elementary education, secondary education, special education, math, science, and English-language learnersmeets biweekly to review digital curriculum, assess the projects progress, and plan professional development for teachers and principals.

See Also Chat: Rolling Out a 1-to-1 Program: Rochester Citys Path

April 12, 2016, 2 to 3 p.m. ET The chief technology officer and the curriculum chief in an N.Y. district discuss how they are tapping the expertise of their curriculum, teaching, and technology staffs to plan a three-year rollout of a 1-to-1 digital initiative.

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Over two days in February, Ryan, from the eLearn Institute, and Kipp Bentley, an education technology consultant and former director of education technology at Denver Public Schools, met individually and in small groups with curriculum directors, the director of testing, instructional technology staff, media specialists, principals, and teachers for frank discussions about the districts readiness for the program, training, and potential roadblocks and solutions.

Some principals, for example, said they, too, would like professional development on best practices so that they would know what to look for during teacher observations. One asked whether an instructional technology teacher could be based at the school once the program got underway. Others suggested setting up model classrooms that teachers could visit to see best practices in action.

Quality professional development remains an important priority in the planning year.

There is no sense in putting all of this technology out there ... if the teachers dont know how to utilize it effectively in order to change their teaching practice, Lehner said.

Corey Skinner, a science teacher at Rochester International Academy where all of the students are newly arrived immigrants with limited or no English-language proficiency, was one of the teachers who helped develop Rochester International Academys 1-to-1 iPad program five years ago.

Skinner said that while many of the districts teachers were comfortable with the technology, many needed additional support beyond online or in-person professional development. The district, he said, must do a masterful job of explaining why this new way of doing business is superior to the paper-and-pencil world.

Paying for Change

Funding is often a primary concern for many districts pursuing 1-to-1 programs, but Rochester is likely to avoid that startup headache because of a windfall from New York states Smart Schools Bond, a $2 billion voter-approved measure to upgrade the states education infrastructure for the 21st century. Rochester could qualify for up to $47.2 million.

The district is still hammering out the applications details; however, a significant portion of the money will go toward buying the computers. But because the district is relying on the Smart School Bond money, it means that with months before the rollout, the computers are not yet in the schools.

A major challenge is finding time for planning and collaboration between the two departments, Lehner said. Ensuring that the 1-to-1 program remains a priority, with a dedicated district funding stream, is something they must keep on top of, said Adele Bovard, the deputy superintendent for administration.

Choosing digital textbooks, or techbooks, that are culturally relevant has also been an issue, and the high number of students without Internet access at home remains a worry. (The district is working on a grant application to provide broadband Internet access in the city, but that will not be a roadblock to the 1-to-1 rollout, Lehner said.)

District officials remain optimistic that teachers are hungry and ready for the challenge. The students, Gkourlias said, have been ready.
If there was ever a time when school districts chief academic officers and chief technology officers could work in their own silos, isolated from each other, those days appear to be over.

In many K-12 systems, the jobs of these two administrators have become increasingly intertwined, as technology has evolved from an add-on or complement to instruction to a core piece of how teachers, students, and administrators go about their work.

The job of chief academic officers is typically to press for improvements in instruction and policy that will boost student learning.

The job of chief technology officers is usually to help set digital strategy in districtsor at least to ensure that various tech tools are functioning properly.

In this special report, Education Week takes an in-depth look at how CTOs and CAOs in individual school districts around the country and a charter network are working together to cope with difficult academic and technological challenges facing their systems. The articles focus on how these jobs get done in a small school system in Iowa, a small city in upstate New York, a California-based charter network, and large suburban systems in Oregon and Georgia.

The positions and the working relationships vary across the country. So do their titles: CAOs are often known alternatively as assistant superintendents for curriculum and instruction, or something similar. CTOs are frequently called chief information officers.

Regardless of their official titles, the most-effective CAOs and CTOs today are likely to have a strong grasp of the needs and priorities of the other administratoreven if they dont agree on everythingaccording to those who work closely with both groups of K-12 officials.

In some cases, that level of collaboration can be difficult to come by. The two groups of administrators bring different professional backgrounds and concerns to the table, even when they identify the same set of challenges and set out to solve them together.

When the Consortium for School Networking, which represents chief technology officers, surveyed its members last year on the biggest challenges they face on the job, they ranked the existence of silos in their districts that make it harder to work on technology planning near the top. Its been one of the biggest difficulties identified for three straight years on the survey.

The growth of technology in districts has fundamentally changed the work of both CTOs and CAOs, and made it a different world than we had 10 or 15 years ago, said Keith Krueger, the CEO of the consortium.

The new landscape has made it more important than ever for administrators to look beyond official job descriptions and figure out how technology can help them accomplish broad district goals.

Getting the Tech Right

In district administrative offices, both technology and academic officers have to start with the question, What is our vision for learning, and how do we enable that? Krueger said, and how do we [create] a common vision for instruction and technology?

In many school districts today, technology is at or near the center of K-12 officials vision for improving the quality of teaching and learning.

CTOs: Educational Backgrounds A recent survey found that chief technology officers have a mix of educational and technology-based training. Source: Consortium for School Networking

Ninety-three percent of teachers today said they use digital tools in some way to help guide instruction, according to nationwide survey results released last year by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Those teachers split relatively evenly in saying technology played a primary role, secondary role, or no role at all in their classrooms.

School systems across the country are routinely making big purchases of digital products, from devices to curricula to management systems, at significant costs. The overall value of the ed-tech market has been set at more than $8 billion, by one estimate.

And when districts make tech purchases, top administratorsfrom superintendents to CTOs to CAOsare under enormous pressure to get it right.

If big technology plans go awryas they have in many K-12 systems, most notably in the case of the Los Angeles Unified School District and its 2013 purchase of iPads, district leaders have to answer to taxpayers.

But district administrators also face pressure, from at least some members of the community, to think big when it comes to technology. Theres a prevailing belief that students need a strong familiarity with tech tools to prepare them for the job market, and administrators dont want to deny students the digital grounding they need, observed Ronn Nozoe, the associate executive director of the ASCD, formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Nozoe has worked as a teacher, superintendent, and state department of education official.

Theres community pressure. A neighboring district goes 1-to-1, said Nozoe, referring to an effort to supply laptops for every student, and school officials are intent on keeping up with the Joneses.

The sheer availability of new classroom technologies contributes to one of the most common sources of friction between CAOs and CTOs, said Krueger, of the consortium.

See Also Chief academic officers are often expected to juggle other administrative duties, in addition to focusing on teaching and learning issues, a recent Education Week survey found. They also answer to different top-level district administrators. Survey Data: Chief Academic Officers Wear Many Hats

Many CAOs want teachers to have broad access to the apps, web tools, and software that those educators believe will improve instruction. CTOs tend to prefer standardized platforms, which are secure and loaded with tech tools that are compatible with each other, Krueger said.

Whats more, CTOs and CAOs are likely to be making big decisions about buying and implementing technology as they juggle myriad other duties. While more than 80 percent of districts with more than 10,000 students have a full- or part-time person charged with overseeing technology, just 42 percent of the smallest districts in the country do, according to federal data. In larger districts, CTOs main focus is setting overall tech priorities. But in small school systems, its likely theyre asked to provide tech support, too, and juggle other, non-tech tasks.

Many CAOs also cover a lot of ground. A survey published in 2015 by the Education Week Research Center found that 60 percent of CAOs also serve as heads of assessment in their districts, perhaps not surprisingly. But it also found that many of them also were tasked with duties such as directing human resources, special populations, or library services in their school systems, or serving as school principals.

Both CTOs and CAOs are likely to have their own visions for school district budgets, and that can also be a source of tension, said Krueger.

In many K-12 districtsdespite the steady growth of digital curriculatextbooks and print materials still dominate, Krueger noted. When it comes time for districts to make big spending decisions about adopting new classroom materials, CTOs tend to favor digital materials, while some CAOs may want a larger share of money reserved for print products. (Major commercial publishers today often sell a mix of both print and digital resources to districts.)

Seeking Seamless Strategies

Even when both sides have the best intentions with a tech project, CTOs and CAOs can find themselves at odds, Nozoe said. One example occurs when a corporate partner in the community approaches the superintendent or CAO with an offer to donate a big supply of devices or software. The administrators are thrilled. But the CTO, Nozoe said, asks myriad questions about the project. Does the district have sufficient bandwidth to support the technology? Are teachers and others prepared to use it? What are the best practices for using the technology?

With any major tech project, superintendents and CAOs should consult CTOs on important strategic and tactical questions, Nozoe said.

You want to have technology thats not just a fancy notepad, he said. Is the technology part of a seamless experience, or is it a frustrating experience?

Andrew Houlihan, who has served as the CAO in the Houston Independent School District since April, said he and his fellow administrators are working together to implement technology in ways that make sense for students and teachers.

See Also Urban and large districts are far more likely than rural and smaller ones to have full-time CTOs, federal data show. K-12 systems in the Northeastern and Southeastern United States are also more likely to have full-time employees in those roles. Full-Time Tech Leadership?

The districts PowerUp initiative is meant to bring devices, digital curricula, and new tech-based strategies to schools across the 215,000-student district.

Houlihan, who previously served in other top administrative jobs in Houston, has been working closely with chief technology information officer Lenny Schad. Their staff members meet regularly to talk about challenges in technology. They coordinate in providing different types of tech training to teachers.

And they work together to make sure their academic goals align with purchasing decisionsas was recently the case when Houston bought a commercial reading program to improve literacy in early high school, Houlihan recalled.

Its got to start with those one-on-one conversations, and relationship-building, said Houlihan but it requires having a coherent structure in place at the central office level. It cant rest on one or two departments. It has to be across the board.
The U.S. Supreme Court appeared sharply divided last week in a major showdown over whether religious schools, colleges, and other groups must take action if they seek to opt out of providing contraceptive care to their female employees or students under the Affordable Care Act.

During oral arguments in the case, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. repeatedly referred to the federal government as hijacking the insurance plans of religious employers to force them to be complicit in the contraceptive coverage.

It seems to me that thats an accurate description of what the government wants to do, Roberts said.

When Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, late in the March 23 arguments, picked up on the idea of a government hijack of religious employers health plans, it appeared the court, with the vacancy left by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, was headed for a 4-4 tie in the group of cases known as Zubik v. Burwell (No. 14-1418).

That would leave lower-court rulings in place. All but one of the nine federal appeals courts to have ruled on the issue have sided with President Barack Obamas administration by holding that an accommodation offered to religious employers does not violate their religious-freedom rights.

The case stems from the Affordable Care Acts requirement that most large employers must offer group health plans with minimum essential coverage, which has beeninterpreted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to include coverage of contraception.

Churches and some other religious organizations (church auxiliaries and the religious activities of religious orders) are exempt from the contraceptive mandate, but HHS declined to exempt many other religious employers, including schools, colleges, nursing facilities, and other nonprofits.

Under the disputed accommodation, those organizations must opt out of the program by informing the federal government in writing of their religious objections or face fines.

Moral Objection

The religious groups, which have moral objections to offering certain forms of contraception, contend that the governments accommodation would make them complicit in providing such care.

The problem is, we have to fill out a form, and the consequence of filling out that form is that we are being treated differently from the churches and other groups that are categorically exempt, Paul D. Clement, the lawyer representing the Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged, a religious employer that is not exempt, told the justices.

Eight members of the Little Sisters order were present in the courtroom for the 90-minute argument, and hundreds more nuns demonstrated outside the court building, along with a smaller number of supporters of the administration.

Noel J. Francisco, the lawyer representing Roman Catholic schools in the dioceses of Washington, Pittsburgh, and Erie, Pa., sought to point out an inconsistency in how the government treats such schools for the purposes of either the exemption or the accommodation.

The point, as explained in his brief, is that some Catholic schools have to comply with the mandate and others dont, based on how they are organized within their dioceses. (Some are part of the main organizational structure of the diocese, and some arent.)

Roberts returned to that point by noting that Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh had to comply with the contraceptive mandate, while Catholic Charities of Erie was exempt.

U.S. Solicitor General Donald B. Verrilli Jr., defending the mandate, said: The government made a judgment that as a categorical matter, it wasnt willing to extend the exemption to all religious nonprofits, as was requested, but it, instead, woulduse this accommodation, which we thought was the best way that we could ... protect their religious liberty.

Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. also was sympathetic to the religious employers.

A Compelling Interest

This is a case in which a great array of religious groups ... have said that this presents an unprecedented threat to religious liberty in this country, Alito said, referring to the opt-out requirement.

Justice Clarence Thomas didnt ask any questions, but his past positions on the Affordable Care Act in the 2014 decision known as Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores Inc., which allowed closely held companies to opt out of the contraceptive mandate, suggest he would side with the religious employers as well.

The courts liberal bloc, which dissented in Hobby Lobby, appeared toside with the government.

I thought there was a very strong tradition in this country, which is that when it comes to religious exercises, churches are special, Justice Elena Kagan told Francisco. And if youre saying that every time Congress gives an exemption to churches and synagogues and mosques, that they have to open that up to all religious people, then the effect of that is that Congress just decides not to give an exemption at all.

Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said the government has another interest at stake.

As you know, the original health-care plan did not provide these covered services for women, and [the government] saw a compelling interest there, a need that was marginally ignored up until then, she said, referring to the HHS rules that require contraceptive coverage.

A ruling is expected by late June.
Adam Carter started his career as a frazzled high school English teacher with one overhead projector in his classroom and no real sense that additional technology might help him meet the wildly varying needs of his students.

Fourteen years later, hes the chief academic officer at Summit Public Schools, helping to craft the California-based charter networks nationally recognized approach to using technology to personalize student learning. Hes also a central figure in Summits one-of-a-kind partnership with Facebook, through which educators and engineers are collaborating to develop new software for customizing education in K-12 schools.

The key to his evolution, the 37-year-old South Carolina native said, has been coming to understand ed tech as a means of extending and deepening the capabilities of good schools and teachers.

Im not doing anything now that I didnt always want to do, Carter said. I became a convert because I saw the academic utility in using technology in a thoughtful and intentional manner.

Summits efforts to bridge the divide between educators and technologists is a big reason why the network, which now serves roughly 2,500 students in 10 schools in California and Washington, has become a destination for educators around the country interested in personalized learning. Carter plays a key role, heading the academic side of Summits house and working closely with three technology experts within the network:

 Chief technology officer Bryant Wong, responsible for Summits hardware, devices, and information-technology infrastructure.

 Director of information Vishal Shah, responsible for the software used in Summit schools, all attendant data analysis, and the networks reporting and compliance obligations.

Summit Public Schools Charter Network  Location: Redwood City, Calif.

 School System Size: 2,500 Students

 Facebook engineer Mike Sego, who is overseeing the development of a digital learning platform called the Personalized Learning Plan, now in use in all Summit schools, as well as at 19 pilot sites around the country.

Such collaboration is key to meeting Summits intertwined goals, said network CEO Dianne Tavenner. Teachers need a strong academic vision for meeting each child where he or she is, she said, and they also need the tools and data necessary to run classrooms that reflect that vision.

The underlying philosophy is that we invest heavily in understanding what each other is doing, Tavenner said.

Low-Tech Beginning

For Carter, working across traditional siloes means learning about everything from bandwidth requirements to software-development processesall of which, he said, has pushed him to reconsider and sharpen his understanding of what really matters in the classroom.

But back in 2002, when Carter was a first-year teacher fresh out of Stanford Universitys graduate program in teacher education, none of those issues was even on his radar screen.

I knew I was overwhelming some kids, not challenging others enough, he said. In my classes of 30 kids, there are many I knew I wasnt serving well.

The resources at his disposal were limited to the contents of a few folders in a filing cabinet. An assistant principal advised him to take the long view, suggesting he consider the impact teachers can have over their career if they reach just five students a year. Carter almost quit that day.

Not long after, he met Tavenner and became part of the founding team at the first Summit campus. It wasnt a high-tech operation at the time, Carter said, but there was a real commitment to helping every single student realize his or her potential.

Carter spent two years at Summit, then took a job as an English teacher at the Jakarta International School, in Indonesia. It was there that he first started experimenting with learning software and games, including BrainPop, a collection of online learning videos, games, and quizzes for students.

But it was through his work training teachers in dramatically less-resourced schools in the surrounding Indonesian villages that Carter began to really think about what emerging classroom technology was actually for.

He recalled meeting a teacher for whom classroom chalk was such a precious resource that she kept it at the bottom of her purse, only to be used for truly important momentsmost notably, when a student was to solve a problem in front of the class.

What she was actually saying was, The best use of this technology is to lay bare the thinking of students for the class to engage with,  Carter said. Its precisely what were doing now with tools like a Google Doc.

A Collaborative Effort

Carter returned to the United States, and to Summit, in 2011.

Tavenner, who calls him among the top 1 percent of teachers Ive ever had the pleasure of seeing, named him Summits chief academic officer the following year.

By that time, Carter said, two ed-tech tools had prompted him to truly embrace technologys potential: Turnitin.com, a website that allows teachers to offer rich digital feedback on student writing; and Khan Academy, the popular website with free online math lessons and exercises that Summit officials decided several years ago was key to solving their problem with some of their students persistent underperformance in math.

Team Effort Three technology expertsBryant Wong, Vishal Shah, and Mike Segoare part of the leadership team that is developing Summits approach to personalized learning. Source: Education Week

From the beginning, it was clear that making Khan Academy work in Summit schools would take a collaborative effort. Carter worked with a team of academic experts from Stanford on integrating the new online tools into Summits curriculum, which was shifting to merge project-based learning with a focus on helping students learn about how they learn.

Meanwhile, Wong, the chief technology officer, boosted Summits broadband and wireless networks and started buying devices.

And a staffer on what would become the data and information team developed a process for exporting, analyzing, and sharing data on student progressat first doing that work every night, by hand.

We wanted students setting goals, aligning those plans with their daily actions, and getting reports on their progress daily, said Carter. But it was a monumental challenge on the technology and data front to get to a place where we could enact that vision.

Becoming More Intentional

Despite early headaches, Summit soon doubled down on the effort. Carter dove further into the research on the cognitive skills that transcend subjects, such as selecting relevant sources, and nonacademic habits of success, such as managing emotions, that now form the foundation of Summits conception of what it takes for students to succeed in college. Tavenner hired the networks own software engineer and began staffing up the data and information team.

And the Personalized Learning Plan became the place where it all had to come together.

The PLP, as Summits in-development digital learning platform is commonly known, aims to bring together all aspects of Summits philosophy and model in a single place. It contains a complete curriculum for grades 6-12, with hundreds of project-based units aligned with content-area skills that students are expected to master. It is also structured around the cognitive skills and habits of success that Summit hopes to help students develop. The PLP provides a vehicle for getting students to set long- and short-term goals, creating the foundation for mentoring relationships with adults.

For an individual student, that means the ability to log into the PLP and see at a glance active class projects, progress toward mastering specific content and skills, and what still needs to be done to get his or her desired grade in the class and to meet the entrance criteria for the students college of choice.

Having access to a highly skilled technical team that can turn an academic vision into software has been amazing, Carter said. But having to ensure that vision can be embodied via the technology has also forced him to reimmerse himself in education research and become more disciplined in his decisionmaking, he said.

One example: Designing the PLP forced difficult conversations about whether to prioritize students development of cognitive skills or their academic content knowledge. (The cognitive skills won out.)

Another one: When Carter and Tavenner said they wanted to use digital badges as a way of recognizing student progress in developing their habits of success, the engineers pushed back strongly.

Our reaction was, OK, that sounds like an interesting solution, but lets understand what the problem is first,  said Sego, the Facebook engineer. We have a structured way of exploring different approaches.

The result was a scaled-back pilot, testing out a digital badging process for one discrete habit of success: good note-taking.

Its not always easy, Carter said, but building such bridges between the academic and technology sides of the Summit house has been worth it.

We have to be so intentional and collaborative around every decision we make, he said. Its been an unbelievably awesome experience.
By Cristobal Chavez Bravo.

Santiago, Mar 28 (EFE).- During construction of a road in Chile's El Olivar region, located some 470 kilometers (290 miles) from Santiago, workers came upon archaeological remains that experts call a historic discovery that will enrich the world's understanding of pre-Columbian communities.

Infrastructure works along that stretch of a highway, designed to connect the cities of La Serena and Vallenar, have uncovered the burial grounds of several pre-Columbian cultures that inhabited the area as early as 1,700 years ago.

Since the discovery last July, a team of 30 archaeologists and another 50 experts have been at work in 452 digs excavated to reconnoiter an area full of impressive material items dating back to ancient times.

"These finds will provide us with new information about the ways of life of northern Chile's pre-Columbian cultures," Paola Gonzalez, lead archaeologist of the research project, told EFE.

During the archaeological survey, experts have found 49 areas with the remains of burials and dwellings belonging to the Molle, Animas and Diaguita cultures.

The latter culture was a pre-Columbian people greatly influenced by the Incas, and who lived between northwestern Argentina and northern Chile.

"Unfortunately, the Diaguita culture is better known for its beautiful polychrome ceramics than for its way of life," Marcos Biskupovic, archaeologist for the La Serena Archaeological Museum, said.

Gonzalez and archaeologist Gabriel Cantarutti head the recovery of both human and animal bones in the Coquimbo region, as well as of household utensils and ceremonial items.

"These finds will allow us to fill in the blanks in the chronology of pre-Columbian peoples," Biskupovic said.

The bones of about 100 bodies have been found in quite a small area, together will 49 places with signs of formal burials.

Over time, such discoveries could increase exponentially, since they show this to be one of the richest archaeological sites in northern Chile, Gonzalez said.

Because of the large number of bone deposits found, archaeologists and local authorities propose converting the area into a museum.
Havana, Mar 28 (EFE).- Fidel Castro broke his silence Monday about last week's visit here by U.S. President Barack Obama, with an article saying that Cuba doesn't need gifts from the "empire."

"We don't need the empire to give us any gifts. Our efforts will be legal and peaceful, because it is our commitment to the peace and brotherhood of all human beings," President Raul Castro's older sibling said in an article entitled "Brother Obama," published Monday in the island's official media.

This latest "Reflection from Fidel" is the retired leader's initial reaction to the first visit of a sitting president of the United States to Cuba since 1928, in which he analyzes Obama's speech last Tuesday at Havana's Gran Teatro, which was aired live on state radio and television.

"No one should pretend that the people of this noble and selfless country will renounce its glory and its rights, or the spiritual wealth it has earned with the development of education, science and culture," Fidel Castro said.

In his speech, Obama spoke about the values of democracy and political pluralism, urged reconciliation between the two countries and made numerous mentions of the Cuban exile community in the U.S., while recalling the cultural and historic ties between his country and Cuba, despite more than 50 years of antagonism.

The 89-year-old Fidel Castro, who ruled Cuba from 1959 until he stepped down due to illness in 2006, replied that in Obama's speech on the island, the visiting president used "the most syrupy words to say: 'It's high time to forget the past.'"

Weren't those words enough to make everyone "risk a heart attack?" Castro wrote, then went on to detail moments in history Obama seemed to have forgotten. "After a merciless embargo that has lasted almost 60 years? And all those who died in mercenary attacks on Cuban ships and ports, and in an airliner full of passengers blown up in midair, mercenary invasions, multiple acts of force and violence?"

Castro recalled the Invasion of the Bay of Pigs, when in 1961 a mercenary force with heavy firepower, armored infantry and air support, "trained in the United States and accompanied by U.S. warships and aircraft carriers, made a surprise attack on our country."

Obama's journey to Cuba represented a major milestone in the process of normalizing relations that he and Raul Castro announced in December 2014.
WASHINGTON  The Supreme Court considered Monday whether a delay in imposing a prison sentence violates the Constitution's right to a speedy trial.

The justices heard arguments in a case from Montana in which defendant Brandon Betterman waited in jail for 14 months before being sentenced on a bail-jumping charge.

The court seemed concerned about sentencing delays especially because so many criminal cases are resolved through plea bargains instead of trials.

"Most of the action these days takes place in the sentencing phase," Justice Elena Kagan said.

The court has never before extended the right to a speedy trial that is part of the Sixth Amendment to the sentencing phase of a case.

Some justices suggested that sentencing delays would be better handled under the Constitution's due process clause that protects people's rights in the Fourteenth Amendment.

Fred Rowley Jr., Betterman's lawyer, urged the court to find a violation of his client's right to a speedy trial because the criminal proceeding continues through sentencing. A defendant might be delayed from starting drug treatment and suffer a setback in his rehabilitation, Rowley said.

But Montana Solicitor General Dale Schowengerdt said once a defendant has been convicted, either in a trial or through a guilty plea, the speedy trial right no longer applies. Betterman waited nine months before he even raised concerns about the delay, Schowengerdt said.

Betterman also eventually started a rehabilitation program after he was paroled from prison, but quit it just 16 days later, Schowengerdt said. "So parole was rescinded," he said.

In 2011, Betterman failed to appear in court in Butte, Montana, on a domestic violence charge. He was sentenced to five years in prison on the domestic violence charge, and he pleaded guilty to the separate charge of jumping bail in April 2012.

The delays included waiting for completion of a pre-sentencing investigation report, then a further holdup when he tried to get the charge against him dismissed because of the time it was taking to sentence him.

Betterman was finally sentenced to seven years on the bail-jumping charge in June 2013. He said he should have been eligible for conditional release for the domestic violence conviction by then, but he wasn't yet in the prison system. He also couldn't complete other requirements of his domestic violence sentence, such as counseling, and the delay had caused him anxiety and depression, he said.

The Montana Supreme Court ruled against him, reversing its own 2006 decision that said sentencing was included in the right to a speedy trial.
Miami, Mar 28 (EFE).- Twenty-five Cuban migrants were found Monday by U.S. authorities on a small island in the Florida Keys.

A boat captain spotted the migrants early Monday morning on Cook Island, near Big Pine Key, and reported the fact to authorities, said Becky Herrin, the spokesperson for the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.

The migrants, who were all in good health, were turned over to Customs and Border Protection authorities at Dolphin Marina on Little Torch Key.

Cubans who set foot on U.S. soil receive favorable treatment under the 1966 Cuban Adjustment Act and the so-called "wet foot, dry foot" policy, thereby being allowed to remain in this country, while those who are intercepted before they reach the U.S. coast are repatriated to the communist island.

Last Saturday, the U.S. Coast Guard intercepted a group of 26 Cubans - seven of whom had bullet wounds - on a raft near the Florida coast.

According to the Coast Guard, so far during the current fiscal year, which began last Oct. 1, 2,562 Cubans have been intercepted in the Florida Strait, 269 of them during February.

Uncertainty about possible changes in U.S. immigration policy toward Cuba has spurred sharply higher illegal migration from the island since the process of normalizing bilateral relations was launched in December 2014.

During the past fiscal year, more than 43,000 Cubans arrived in the United States, a 77 percent increase over the previous fiscal year.
The bullying began in seventh grade. Crystal Haukaas noticed her son, Trevor OBrien, was being singled out by other kids.

He was gay in a coal town, and his mother knew it before he did. When he would cry asking why people would mistreat him, she would tell him they didnt know him. The people that know you love you, she would say.

Teachers protected him in his Gillette schools. They watched him in the halls and let him eat lunch by their sides. But they did little to punish the bullies, Haukaas said.

The abuse continued even after graduation.

Trevor would become a victim of escalating harassment that turned to violence, accompanied by bouts of depression that followed him for the rest of his short life. His history reflects a broader story of how bullying can turn into persecution. And about how the resulting sense of isolation can lead to distrust  in school officials and police  preventing people from seeking the help they need.

Things were different

The Campbell County School District has an anti-bullying policy in place, and all the teachers are trained in suicide prevention techniques. They try to prevent abuse by teaching kindness as a reflex, said Boyd Brown, superintendent in Campbell County.

Its kind of like wearing your seat belt, he explained. You kind of have to wear that all your life until it becomes a habit.

But when Trevor entered the school system more than a decade ago, things were different.

Schools typically respond to bullying in three ways, said Jason Marsden, director of the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

There is the official response, from authority figures who step in. There is also an effort to build the resilience of kids experiencing bullying, so they can effectively cope with harassment. The third way is to intervene with bullies, to teach them to empathize and stop that behavior while the kids are young, he said.

School officials historically felt an instinct to protect, which is not strange, Marsden said.

Intervening with bullies is the newest approach.

Amongst the different pieces of this puzzle, that is the one that is the least understood, he said.

It could be a game changer. For us to get a grasp on that.

Haukaas told her son to just ignore bullies.

Looking back, she wonders if she shouldnt have told Trevor to fight, to use his size and strength, even if it was against his nature. It was a riddle that would come up again in Trevors life.

An extended family

Trevor spent the last few years of high school at his best friend Tanners house. Her father died, and Trevor stayed over, sleeping next to her every night. Eventually, he just moved in.

He was her rock, the family said.

Tanners extended family became Trevors second family. The grandparents, Bill and Rhonda Pederson, the mom, Brandi Means, and the little sister, 18-year old Falon.

By that time, Trevor was openly and proudly gay. And he influenced the family.

His adopted grandfather can be gruff, Rhonda Pederson said, and it took Trevor a while to feel like he could joke around with Bill. But they became close.

I dont think my husband has ever told anyone he loved them, except our immediate family, and Trevor, Rhonda said.

But as he cared for his adopted family, Trevors life was, at times, a struggle. Late last year, Trevor stopped at a convenience store on his way to work and noticed that someone had scratched a homophobic slur into the side of his car. It was the second time that had happened.

I know that really bothered him. He said that it made him cry, and he was embarrassed, Means said.

He started parking his car in the driveway, so the dogs would bark if someone tried to vandalize it again. He posted on Facebook that he had a new car, and started driving Means' car to work.

Though the harassment bothered Trevor, he was also very strong, Means said.

The family knows that the incidents are part of why Trevor was depressed. But its not the whole story, they said.

The attack

In December, five young men approached Trevor as he left a party. He knew at least one of them, his family said.

They made comments about Trevor being gay. He responded with something quick-witted.

Then the men attacked.

They threw him on the gravel, he told Rhonda. They punched and kicked him. They stomped on his groin so many times he thought he would need a catheter. He had trouble urinating for three days.

I begged him to let me call the cops and he said, If you call the cops Ill never forgive you, she said.

It is not surprising that Trevor declined to report the incident, Marsden said.

Wyoming doesnt have a hate crime law, and the majority of those types of offenses are not reported. Victims fear that the authorities wont help them. Or that reporting can make their situations worse, he said.

Victims also worry about retaliation, he said.

Though law enforcement officials often say they wish the incidents were reported, the fear of reporting remains.

Apparent suicide

The Pedersons remember Trevor was upset one night recently. He stood in the kitchen at the Pedersons' house and his adopted grandpa approached him. He placed his hands on Trevors shoulders.

Young man, youve got a lot going for you, and you know I love you, he said.

It seemed to bring Trevor right out of it, that Bill would say that to him, Rhonda said, her voice breaking with emotion.

The family remembers these events  each a piece of a puzzle. They loved Trevor, and he knew he was loved.

On March 7, Trevor came home from work and had dinner with his family. He left home with a backpack on his shoulder. Means told him he looked handsome.

The next evening, Trevor was found dead in a Gillette park of an apparent suicide. He was 20 years old.

The statistics

Trevor was was one of 11 people, seven under the age of 25, who killed themselves in Gillette over the last year, according to police.

Among the myriad reasons that lead people to believe they have no better option than suicide, being an LGBT youth is one of many factors, said Rob Johnston, a suicide prevention professional for the Prevention Management Organization of Wyoming. Wyoming has the fourth-highest rate of suicide in the nation.

Even for your statistically average young person in Wyoming, this is a potential health and safety risk to you no matter your sexual orientation, Marsden said. Should you find that your sexual orientation differs from that of your peers, that would be an added complication in your life that changes the way you look at your options.

Professionals caution against simplifying suicide or implying that one event is the root cause.

Every incident is different and causality can be really frustrating to try to understand, Marsden said. But statistics make it clear that (the LGBT) population is at excessive risk of self-harm, attempted suicide and completed suicide.

The common factor is a feeling of hopelessness, Johnston said. He calls suicide a permanent fix to a temporary problem.

And though the reasons that people choose to attempt suicide differ, there is often an event that tips the scales, he said.

Though Trevors experience is complex, some of the incidents that preceded his death, like the damaged car, are red flags, Johnston said.

In February, a young man Trevor was dating moved away. The break-up was cruel, the family said.

'My best friend'

Trevor was so quick to help others, but he didnt want burden his family with his own troubles, his mother explained.

Now Trevors absence is a burden for those left behind.

After his death, and the funeral, the family locked up Trevors room. A fan sitting at the foot of his bed creates a whirring sound from the outside. The family wont turn it off.

Though Trevor had left home three years ago, he had been spending more time with his mom over the last months before he died.

Trevor would take her out to lunch. She started to depend on his companionship. She knew what time he would arrive. She needed to get dressed and do her hair beforehand, otherwise he would chide her.

Haukaas feels haunted by a moment with Trevor from a few weeks ago. She was going to pick him up for their lunch date and reflected on how things had changed since Trevor and his sister were children.

When they were little, they were my whole life, thats all I ever did," she said. "Then they started growing up and didnt want to hang out with me. I was kind of lost.

"I was heading over here to pick him up, and I was thinking, hes become my best friend.
CASPER, Wyo.  The University of Wyoming knew the state Legislature might not grant about $387,000 this session for a new master's program in counseling at the school's Casper satellite campus.

Community interest and involvement was strong, and the need was visible. But Wyoming learned months before the Legislature's February budget session that revenue from the energy industry in the next few years would take a nose dive.

Ultimately the program was funded, and it represents what some say is the growing commitment to expand UWs presence at its only satellite school.

I think it is part of an ongoing desire to place more resources at UW Casper, said Susan Frye, dean of UWs Outreach School. We know that there are over 200 people that have signed up and are interested in this, and we have testimonials from future employers that want to hire these people.

Branch campus

Occasional rumors suggest UWs presence in Casper is waning, especially when there are budget cuts. But such talk is unfounded, said Scott Seville, dean of the outreach school and a professor at the college.

There has long been a higher education need in Casper, and a desire to see more opportunities to help build the community, build the economy, he said. At various times there were efforts to build a four-year school in Casper.

UWs branch campus was a compromise for lawmakers, and it continues to be, Seville said.

It was probably a smart thing to do, he said. You look at the states around us that have multiple four-year graduate-degree-granting institutions, and when economies decline, you see real catfights, and really nobody comes out a winner.

The satellite campus has been in place now for about 40 years, he added.

"Were in this for the long term, he said, referencing the new UW-Casper building on the Casper College campus. This was a major financial investment on the part of the state and the college.

The building, which opened in 2013, is on a 50-year lease.

We share it with Casper College, and it seems to me that building really stands for the deep connection that exists, and the wonderful educational relationships that exist, between Casper College and (UW-Casper), Frye said. We have a substantial number of staff there, as well as faculty members.

The masters program is further evidence of that commitment, she said.

The degree will prepare students for positions such as counseling in public schools and substance abuse counseling. Wyoming has the fourth-highest suicide rate in the country, and experts say theres a need for more counselors.

It was a grassroots movement from the Casper community to create the program, Seville said.

The amendment funding the program was sponsored by local Republican legislator Rep. Bunky Loucks. And the push for the program originally was a collaborative effort with the Casper Area Economic Development Alliance Higher Education Committee and UW-Casper, after identifying the student demand for the degree, as well as future demand from the marketplace.

Most of the 200 people interested in attending the program are based in Natrona County.

There will also be an estimated 40 new jobs per year in Wyoming mental health counseling, according to the colleges news release.

More degrees

UWs Outreach School is moving closer to the kind of community collaboration revealed by the development of the counseling masters program, said Frye.

What we are hearing in different communities is a real desire for other degrees, she said. They are envious of the University of Wyoming at Casper. All of the community colleges tell us that we would love to have UW faculty members. If you think of it, that is a very logical progression.

Though some see the dangers budget cuts pose for higher education, others see opportunity, said Frye.

There may be even more expansion in Casper in the next few years, she said.

With incoming UW President Laurie Nichols, the school will continue to look at its statewide options, including in Casper, despite the tighter budget.

She has cut before when she was at South Dakota State, and she knows the importance of cutting wisely, and I think we are in good hands as we go forward, Frye said.

The masters program is key to a different way of facing tighter budgets for colleges, Seville said. The kind of efficiency measures that save money are not always dire news.

Facing cuts can result in building programs people are looking for rather than cutting them, he said.

One way the university can meet the financial situation is tuition money, he said. One way to get those students, and potentially given the economy, there may be more people out there looking to go back to school, is to provide them with access.

People who are too far from Laramie see something like the masters program or the distance education learning opportunities, and feel that is something that they can do, Seville said.

Caspers central location in Wyoming is one of the things the schools branch campus is trying to market, Frye said.

The University of Wyoming is completely dedicated to the ongoing excellence at (UW-Casper), she added.
Elsie Friesz, 86, Mandan, died March 26, 2016, at Sanford Health, Bismarck. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, at St. Josephs Catholic Church, Mandan, with the Rev. Shane Campbell as celebrant. Burial will be at Mandan Union Cemetery after the church service.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. today at St. Josephs Catholic Church, with a rosary/parish vigil at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.

Elsie Frohlich was born to Peter and Elizabeth (Markel) Frohlich, in Crown Butte, on March 23, 1930. Elsie loved life on the farm, where she and her siblings worked hard and had childhood fun that would be shared years later as stories retold in German at the Frohlich family progressive dinner parties held every year.

Elsie moved to Mandan and worked at the Mandan Ben Franklin store and later in the camera department at Hoskins-Meyer Floral in Bismarck, where she developed a love of photography. For years, Elsie documented Friesz and Frohlich family activities, vacations and special events by taking hundreds of photos on Kodachrome slides that entertained so many at family gatherings that often ended with an Elsie slide show.

Elsie married Edward Friesz, who was the love of her life, on Sept. 30, 1953. Elsie dedicated her life to her family, staying at home to raise her and Eds six children. Elsie entertained her children with stories, songs and dancing while preparing meals and baking breads, cookies and other desserts for meals that were an important gathering time for her family.

Elsie and Ed loved taking annual family vacations and every August, included a new destination as the family drove to visit relatives and sightsee in states all across the country. When Ed and Elsie retired, they continued to enjoy traveling together taking bus tours and visiting children and grandchildren living in other states.

Elsie was a woman of deep faith and she was devoted to her Catholic tradition. She loved attending daily Mass at St. Josephs Catholic Church, where she was a parishioner and member of the St. Josephs Circle for over 60 years. She looked forward to her daily walk to church, no matter the season or weather.

Elsie was an avid gardener. She loved her indoor and outdoor plants and flowers, gathering rain water to care for them and bringing back to life those plants others thought were beyond hope. Elsie donated hundreds of plants to AID Inc. in Mandan, where she also volunteered every week for over 20 years. Through those plants there is a small piece of Elsie blooming in homes all across the area.

Elsie was visually impaired due to a childhood illness, and her loss of vision progressed throughout her life. Her loss of vision did not deter her from doing and accomplishing the things she was passionate about. One passion Elsie had was reading, and thanks to talking books provided by the Library of Congress and the North Dakota State Library, Elsie read thousands of books all of which she recorded in a journal. When funding for the North Dakota State Library and its services were being threatened with cuts, Elsie successfully testified before state legislative committees to preserve this important service to the blind. Elsie also loved the people she met at meetings and conferences of the North Dakota Association of the Blind and the annual summer camp program she attended at Camp Grassick.

Elsie always dreamed of going to high school and she did for a few short months, before returning to the farm to help care for her mother. But Elsie never stopped dreaming about graduating from high school and in 1995, at the age of 65, Elsie passed the GED and received her high school diploma. Elsie never stopped learning, staying up on current events by regularly listening to the radio and TV news and studying historical events and presidents through the books and magazines that she read.

The Friesz family would like to thank all the Good Samaritans who helped Elsie over the years. While she was visually impaired, Elsie never let her vision stop her from doing the things she loved and she loved walking. She carefully tracked all of her steps to and from the places she needed to go, but at times she got lost or her path was interrupted with construction. There are so many people that stopped to help guide Elsie back on her path. She trusted the good nature in people and no one ever let her down.

Elsie will be deeply missed by her children: three daughters, Delphine Marshall, Mandan, Sharon Johnson, Bismarck, and Annette (Leon) Kary, Mandan, and three sons, Kennard, Mandan, Gerard (Mary Ellen), Seattle, Wash., and Maynard (Linda), Arlington, Va.; 11 grandchildren, Trever (Angie) Marshall, Anton (Jamie) Marshall, Jakob Marshall, Alec Johnson and his fiancee, Tess, Brett Johnson, Maria (Rob) Eide, Elizabeth (Tyler) Ferderer, Rachael Kary, Ryan Friesz, Adam Friesz and Edward Teddy Friesz; six great-grandchildren, Ella Rose, Oliver and Eliot Marshall, Isabel and Franklin Marshall, Emaline Elsie Eide, and baby Ferderer on the way; two sisters, Bernadine (Don) Prouty, Bismarck, and Lucy (Anton) Wangler, Fargo; a brother, Tom Frohlich, Mandan; and a sister-in-law, Donna Frohlich, Bismarck.

Elsie was preceded in death by her husband who died June 14, 2005; her parents; one son-in-law, John Marshall; one sister, Vera Frohlich; two brothers, Joseph (Frances) Frohlich and Donald Frohlich; and a sister-in-law, Jeanette Frohlich.

Go to www.weigelfuneral.com to sign the online guest book and view tribute photos. (Weigel Funeral Home, Mandan)
FARGO  Jessie C. Hinger-Schultz, 89, Fargo, formerly of Jamestown, passed away March 24, 2016, at Elim Care Center, Fargo. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 1, at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1201 Fourth St. N.E., Jamestown. Interment will be at Seventh-day Adventist Cemetery, New Home.

Visitation will be held one hour before the service at the church.

Jessie Claire Hanson was born June 8, 1926, at St. Paul, Minn., the daughter of Alfred and Louise (Bell) Hanson. As a baby, she moved with her family to Rudyard, Mont., and then at 5 years of age to Ransom County, near Fort Ransom. Jessie attended school at a rural school the first four years and then at Kathryn, where she graduated from high school in 1944. She received her B.S. degree in math from Valley City State Teachers College in 1948, and was a math teacher in an era when women math teachers were fairly uncommon.

Jessie taught for five years in North Dakota and then married William Roger Hinger at Jamestown on Aug. 17, 1952. They made their home in Lincoln, Neb., for a short while and then moved back to North Dakota. In 1956, they moved to Walla Walla, Wash., where Roger attended college. Jessie raised a family that eventually included four boys as Rogers work took them from Wilson, N.C., then to Mukwonago, Wis., and then to Denver, where she taught from 1970 to 1976 at Mile High Academy. In 1976, they moved back to the Hinger family farm near Pettibone.

In the following years, Jessie and Roger traveled extensively and ended up spending several years in Guatemala, Central America doing missionary work. Roger died June 3, 2000, and following his death, Jessie resided in Jamestown. She married Duane Schultz Oct. 23, 2003, in Jamestown. Jessie and Duane spent much of their time traveling and visiting family in Norway, the UK, and across the USA. He died March 7, 2013, and Jessie moved to Fargo shortly thereafter.

Jessie is survived by her three sons, William (Isabel) Hinger, Portland, Tenn., Darrell (Amy) Hinger, West Fargo, and Randall Hinger, Nolensville, Tenn.; 11 grandchildren, Brian, Jon, Steven, Robert, James Jr., Tealee, Jimette, Tyler, Anthony, Jessica and Emilio; seven great-grandchildren; two stepsons, Russell (Tamara) Schultz, Sherman, Texas, and Roger (Terri) Schultz, Plano, Texas; six step-grandchildren; and one sister, Phyllis Myhre, Cut Bank, Mont.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; one son and daughter-in-law, James (Jan) Hinger; one sister, Erma Overby; and one stepson, Gary. (Williams-Lisko Funeral Chapel, Jamestown)
Rob Kardashian is getting back to himself as he continues to go strong with his girlfriend Blac Chyna. Now word is that she is in talks of being a part of his return to E!s Keeping Up With The Kardashians.

Kardashian walked away from his familys show after he was said to have gone through a dark period. But its no secret that he has come out of the shadows with his new relationship with Blac Chyna and even lost more than 40 pounds of the 100 he gained during his rough patch. So it only makes sense for her to sign on to be a part of his highly anticipated return to the series.

Blac Chyna is open to having a recurring role on the show as long as she and showrunners can agree on what she will get paid. Apparently her golden price is $1 million, as she is fully aware of what the popularity that she and Kardashians relationship will bring to the series. She also wants producers to agree to a non-exclusive contract, which will allow her to star in other shows as well. Word is she lined this up so she could eventually score her own reality series.

Meanwhile, Blac Chyna and Kardashian are slaying as one of Hollywoods favorite couples. She posted a photo of them over the weekend that shows off his weight loss.

It has already scored 170,000 likes and roughly 6,000 comments.

Check it out.

A photo posted by www.Lashedbar.co (@blacchyna) on Mar 26, 2016 at 9:52am PDT



Keep up with Enstars for the latest on the couple.
The battle will be on between the veterans and new captains on the Bering Sea on the 12th season of Deadliest Catch.

The show, which follows the adventures of several fishing boats as they try to combat the perils of life at sea and capture crabs to continue making a living, will be featuring some familiar faces, as well as a fresh crop of newbies who will be trying to take their place and make their own mark in the business. But most of them will fail to impress one of the biggest veterans of allSig Hansen, captain of the F/V Northwestern.

"When I look around at the new guys, there is a lot of opportunity but not a lot of promise," he says in a sneak peek clip for the March 29 premiere. "I don't see as much fear as I would have hopes to see. They don't seem fearful because in their mind, there is nothing to fear."

According to a press release, one of the newbies who will be embarking on the journey for the first time ever as a captain is also the youngest in the show's history23-year-old Sean Dwyer, who will not only try to live up to the promise of his recently-departed father, but will have to also meet a major quota from Sig himself: 290,000 lbs. of crab.

Also feeling the pressure will be Sig's former mentor, Jake Anderson, whom Sig may wind up torturing along the way.

Josh Harris, though not new to the scene, will also experience his own turmoil aboard the Cornelia Marie as he fights to keep the newly overhauled boat in the family, with investors threatening to take everything away from him before he has a chance to prove himself to be as legendary as his father, the late Captain Phil Harris.

Personal problems will also be at the forefront for even the veterans however as well, as Keith Colburn struggles with his marriage ending, and Sig appears to battle some health issues.

Additionally, everyone will have the same struggle as the weather makes the catch even more elusive than ever. Everyone's lives are more on the line than ever before as they battle the chaotic storms and the resulting injuries and breakdowns that come with them.

However, the main battle will all come down to who can prove their worth morethe veterans or the newbies. And when it comes to that, Sig has only a few words of advice for all the newest members of the fleet.

"Don't waste time," he says in the clip. "It's always the thing you didn't think of that's going to bite you in the end."

Deadliest Catch season 12 two-hour premiere airs Tuesday, March 29 at 9 p.m. on Discovery.
Why America is not safe from Islamic terrorism By Peter Morici

America cannot be safe from terrorism unless it roots out and destroys the Islamic Stateat home and in the Middle East. Recent attacks in Brussels, the December massacre in San Bernardino and 32 other IS sponsored assaults in 24 cities around the world should drive home to Americans that no one on this planet is safe from radical Islam. The founding principles of American civilization the efficacy of democracy to guarantee personal security and the inviolability of human rightsare under attack and exploited by the IS.

CCTV image from the Brussels Airport surveillance cameras made available by Belgian Police Bombings in the Brussels airport and subway owe much to a democratically elected government's failure to use its security apparatus to map and roll up the IS extremist network in Muslim districts of the citydespite repeated warnings the infestation was spreading and posed a lethal threat. Now citizens of Belgium live in fear and are unable to move freely on their own streets. Americans turn a blind eye tooobsessed with naive notions about freedom of religion. And if we don't become more realistic, we can look forward to more San Bernardino and perhaps 9-11 attacks. Islamic radicalization spreads among young Muslims much as did Christianity did during the Roman persecution but with terribly evil intentions. Young people, burdened by poverty and unemploymentand disaffected by the failed promises of politicians to create decent opportunitiesare exposed to a poisonous religion of hatred toward Christians and Western Civilization. Founded on mutated and twisted notions of Islam, this creed spreads through loosely connected networks of underground mosques and terrorist cells, by word of mouth and on the internet. Police efforts to monitor those activities were frustrated in Brusselsmuch as they were in San Bernardinoin part, by religious leaders, friends and families who turned a blind eye to terrorist preparations, refused to cooperate with authorities and often shared some sympathy for those who hold western values and institutions in contempt. Seen in this context, Islam and the Islamic community cannot be viewed as just another religion protected by the First Amendment. Just as freedom of speech does not give individuals the right to scream fire in a movie theater, freedom of religion does not protect a community from conspiringthrough direct actions by its more brazen members or estoppel by ignoring bomb building in neighbors' basements. Either the Imams, Islamic community leaders and ordinary citizens earnestly assist authorities to root out the cancer in their midst, or western governments should subject Mosques and community groups to police surveillance normally reserved for movements dedicated to overthrowing governments and subjugating citizensbecause those are the avowed intents of the IS. As importantly, the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq provides essential support for the global terrorist movement and if not absolutely crushed, then its sinister designs to paralyze and destabilize western societies will in some places succeed. Belgium is already skating on the edge of state entropy. Europeans appear not to have the stomach to defend their own liberties. The Germans and others cried but refused to protect the Ukraine from Russian aggression, and indicate no stomach for an expeditionary force to destroy ISIS on the ground. Allied bombing of ISIS and technical and materiel support for the government of Iraq and anti-ISIS insurgents are proving simply not enough. Despite repeated terrorist attacks, Europeans continue to believe tight security and good police work may somehow root out terrorists before they attack airports, subway systems and stadiums filled with spectators. That leaves America with stark and discomforting choices about having to go it aloneor with only limited European supportto destroy IS. We are foolish to think, as the Europeans do, that we can continue to avoid the necessity of cracking down on radicalism in America or sending a ground force to the Middle East to destroy the IS homeland and liquidate its army. Peter Morici is an economist and business professor at the University of Maryland, and a national columnist. He tweets @pmorici1 Home
Perhaps history's most dangerous pair of American villains By Michael Moriarty

31 dead, 230 injured in Brussels. Let's start there. No, let's start with World War II's anti-Semitism and link it directly to the undeniable anti-Semitism of an Islamic/Marxist President of the United States, Barack Hussein Obama and his vacation in Castro's Cuba. Let's see the common denominator that links both 1940's, World War II Europe and the burgeoning World War III America of President Obama. Anti-Semitism. Judeo-Christianity versus Hitler's Mein Kampf. Judeo-Christianity versus Mohammed's Koran. Judeo-Christianity versus Marx's Communist Manifesto. The added fly to this ointment: Communism's alliance with Islam. The human race under the potential dictatorship of Red Muslims such as Barack Hussein Obama. A Communist Islam.

Obama's Communist Loyalty Meanwhile, the Bushes and the Clintons want one big happy New World Order: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txukr5zgHnw Is it any wonder that plots against the front-running and uniquely independent Donald Trump have been openly and shamelessly treasonous?! America has never been in worse shape than the condition that the Bush-Clinton-Bush-Obama Alliance has imprisoned her in!! Donald Trump is now America's only possible hope for a renaissance! The list of Cruz, Kasich, Hillary and Bernie?! Perhaps America's most stubborn and unrelenting grave-diggers. America's ultimate executioner? Here he is, getting bolder and more shameless about his celebratory loathing for all of Judeo-Christianity.

The President's Contemptuously Spiteful Tango Vacuously brief words of regret for the nightmare in Belgium. He not-so-secretly rejoices and literally dances upon the agonies inflicted upon any persons or any significant lands within Western Democracy. A smoother villain

of human history

than Barack Hussein Obama

it would be difficult to name. He has succeeded in holding onto not one but two terms as President of the freest and most Democratic nation in the history of the world. So committed to "individual freedom" that America's own President can treat that nation's Constitution and her Bill of Rights as toilet paper and get away with it!! And he still has ten more months to rub salt in the very wounds he helped inflict upon the United States. This particular article, linking Marxist longings with Islamic violence, i.e. ISIS et al, has one flamingly obvious interconnection with Bush/Clinton/Bush/Obama America: THE MUTUALLY AGREED-UPON DESTRUCTION OF AMERICA FOR THE SAKE OF A NEW WORLD ORDER RUN BY THE UNITED NATIONS. NO WONDER CONGRESS WON'T DEMAND THE IMPEACHMENT OF THE RED ISLAMIC PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA. Donald Trump's entrance into this main arena of shameless and undeniably treasonous machinations by both sides of America's bipartisan political aisle?! "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN?!?!?!" "Whoa!!!!!!!!!" cry men and women of The New World Order. "When we are successful" announces George H. W. Bush, "and we will be" ?!?!?!?! Along comes Donald Trump to make "America Great Again"?!?!? Old Man Bush, rather like a Roman Emperor, gives the throat-cutting gesture!

Unforgettable Moment For Third Millennium America Today's most recent gossip? Jeb Bush will find a way to re-insert himself as the Republican Nominee for President of the United States. Now that I've identified America's "Smoothest Pair of Villains": Barack Hussein Obama and George H. W. Bush?! The final nail of evidence in the New World Order Nightmare that both Obama and H.W. share: THE BUSH FAMILY HISTORY OF ANTI-SEMITISM. No wonder the Bush Republican Party will never call for the justifiable impeachment of a Marxist/Muslim President of the United States: A BUSH/OBAMA NEW WORLD ORDER RUN BY THE UNITED NATIONS DEMANDS THE ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION OF ISRAEL AND AMERICA. A possibly record-breaking villainy historically unprecedented involving the complete destruction of America and Israel by treasonous Presidents of the United States is, at this very moment, unfolding. No wonder America's only hope now is Donald Trump. 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
The current oil price rally is reaching its limits



By Nick Cunningham

Oil prices have climbed by about 50 percent from their February lows, topping $40 per barrel. But the rally could be reaching its limits, at least temporarily, as persistent oversupply and the prospect of new shale production caps any potential price increase.



U.S. oil production has steadily lost ground over the past two quarters, with production falling more than a half million barrels per day since hitting a peak at nearly 9.7 million barrels per day (mb/d) in April 2015. American oil companies have gutted their budgets and have put off drilling plans, with many projecting absolute declines in 2016.



That has sparked a renewed sense of optimism among oil traders. Moreover, supply outages in places like Iraq and Nigeria have also knocked at least a quarter of a million barrels per day offline, an unexpected disruption that put upward pressure on prices in March. Geopolitical unrest still has the ability to influence prices, even while the world is awash in oil. More oil bulls are piling on in anticipation of the April OPEC meeting, on an unfounded belief that the production freeze may actually have any material impact on global oil supplies.



But while oil traders have found some reasons to believe that oil prices are rising, there are just as many, if not more, data points to backup bearish sentiment. Storage levels in the U.S. continue to set records, hitting 523 million barrels for the week ending on March 11. Until inventories start to deplete in a significant way, oil prices will face a lot of resistance trying to break above $40 per barrel. Iran also continues to add production, albeit at a slower-than-expected rate.



In fact, the rally to $40 was largely driven by speculation. As short bets peaked and started to unwind, traders closed out positions at a rapid clip, helping to push prices up by $12 to $13 per barrel in less than two months. The trend continued last week as hedge funds and other major money managers increased their net-long positions on crude by another 17 percent. Short positions are now at their lowest levels since last June.



But now, with oil traders taking the most bullish positions in months while the fundamentals still have not shifted in a correspondingly significant fashion, traders have set up the conditions where oil prices could snap back to the downside. Once it becomes clear that OPEC won't come to the rescue, and traders have taken bullish bets to unwarranted levels, prices could fall back to the mid-$30s.



It isn't just a speculator's game, however. The physical market could change as well with oil prices as high as they are  shale drilling could comeback with oil prices at $40 per barrel and above. Some areas of North Dakota have breakeven prices at around $20 to $25 per barrel. Drilling for oil in shale is already a "short-cycle" event  a well can take weeks or months to be completed, whereas an offshore project can take several years.



On top of the quick lead times, U.S. shale companies are also sitting on thousands of drilled but uncompleted wells (DUCs). Over the past year, companies did not want to complete their wells and sell their output into a depressed market and/or they needed to save cash in the short-run so decided to defer well completions.



That means a wave of production, the extent of which is unclear, could come back online when oil prices prove enticing enough. Reuters cited a Wood Mackenzie estimate that found that the backlog of DUCs has already begun to decline, falling by about one-third over the past six months. In the Permian Basin and the Eagle Ford, more than 600 wells sit on the sideline awaiting completion, which could lead to the production of an additional 100,000 to 300,000 barrels per day. The backlog of DUCs should be worked through this year and next, returning to normal by the end of 2017.



"If the number of DUCs brought online is surprising to the upside, that means U.S. production won't decline as quickly as people expect," Michael Wittner, global head of oil research at Societe Generale, told Reuters. "More output is bearish." Companies could even be forced to complete more wells in a rush to meet debt payments.



Neil Atkinson, head of the oil market division at the International Energy Agency (IEA), largely agrees with the potential shale restart. "If prices keep rising, we could find that because of the cost cutting and the technology improvements that some of this marginal production is switched back on," he said in a March 18 interview with Fuelfix. "But how long does it take to reassemble crews, get the labor, the equipment and all the rest of it? This is what we don't know."



Baker Hughes reported that the oil rig count actually turned positive last week, rising by one to 387 (the overall rig count declined by four to hit 476, due to the loss of five natural gas rigs). Obviously, one data point does not prove a trend, but the dramatic declines in rig counts in 2016 have slowed and basically come to a halt in March. It is too early to tell, but drillers could begin to add more rigs if oil prices rise above various breakeven points. That is not good news for oil prices.



Nick Cunningham is a writer for Oilprice.com where this originally appeared. Home
Is Turkey planning to destabilize Lebanon? By Col. (ret.) Dr. Jacques Neriah

The outburst of the so-called Arab Spring caught Turkey by surprise. After a period of hesitation, the Turkish leadership saw the uprising in Syria and Egypt as an opportunity to intervene and change the regimes opposed to Turkey's policies in the Middle East and replace them with Islamic regimes close to Turkey's ideological stand. Specifically, Turkey looked at two targets: Egypt and Syria. In both countries, the Islamic opposition was headed by the Muslim Brotherhood, natural allies of the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and was challenging the traditional leaderships in an effort to topple them. Egypt fell first to the hands of the Muslim Brotherhood through a much contested democratic process which brought to the presidency the Muslim Brotherhood's candidate to the rejoicing of Turkey's leadership. However, it took the Egyptian Army one full year to recover and force the Muslim Brotherhood President Mohammad Morsi to step down and retake the reins of power and the full control of the country  to Turkey's dismay. Since then relations between Ankara and Cairo have been poisoned by Ankara's open criticism of the Sisi regime and by the accusations made by Egypt of Turkish interference in its internal affairs. In July 2015, Egyptian authorities went as far as accusing Turkey of conducting subversive activities in the Sinai Peninsula following the arrest of Turkish agents by Egyptian Intelligence. Even though the domestic situation in Egypt is still frail and Islamic terror is still very active both in Sinai and inside Egypt, the military have succeeded in keeping Egypt's unity and avoiding a civil war. Unlike Egypt, events that unfolded in Syria contributed to the collapse of the nation-state that had existed there since its 1945 independence from French colonial rule. Assad was confronted at the beginning by the traditional enemies of the Alawite regime. However, with the unraveling of the war, the Muslim Brotherhood were marginalized first by military groups which had rallied under the banner of the Free Syrian Army (FSA), whose official announcement of establishment was made in Turkish territory under the auspices of Turkish Intelligence, and then by other radical Muslim factions, some Al-Qaeda-inspired and others directed by the Islamic State in Syria and the Levant (ISIL), later to become the Islamic State (IS) in 2014. Turkey saw the developments in Syria as an opportunity to intervene and topple the Alawite regime. Accordingly, Turkish Military Intelligence (MIT) was instructed to assist rebel factions opposed to the Assad regime almost from the very first days of the civil war in Syria and more so from the end of the 2013 and early 2014. The magnitude of the Turkish involvement in Syria was uncovered by a Turkish prosecutor and court testimony from Turkish gendarmerie officers quoted by Reuters, both contradicting Turkey's denials that it had assisted the rebels with weapons, training and shelter, and by doing so indirectly contributed to the rise of the Islamic State in Syria. According to this report, Syria and some of Turkey's Western allies say Turkey allowed fighters and arms over the border, some of whom went on to join the Islamic State militant group. Testimony by gendarmerie officers in court documents reviewed by Reuters alleges that rocket parts, ammunition and semi-finished mortar shells taken from MIT depots were carried in trucks accompanied by state intelligence agency (MIT) officials to parts of Syria under the hardline Islamist rebel group Ahrar al-Sham. The Salafist group included commanders such as Abu Khaled al-Soury, also known as Abu Omair al-Shamy, who fought alongside al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden and was close to its current chief Ayman al-Zawahiri. Much has been written about the Turkish involvement in the Syrian conflict, its bias against the Kurds, and its double-faced attitude towards the IS. But it is not the purpose of this paper to depict an already known and well-documented interference. However, unlike the past, it seems that Turkey has decided to adopt a different approach to the destabilization of Syria following the military intervention of Russia which has enabled thus far the Assad regime's chances not only to survive the storm but even to capture positions lost to the rebellion since 2012. Until now Turkey had chosen to shelter, train, arm, and finance rebel groups, and allow almost total free movement of jihadists inside Turkey en route to their units inside Syria and Iraq, and even allow them to spend vacations in summer resorts on the southwest coast of Turkey. In some cases Turkey was even accused of assisting the Islamists in their battles against the Kurds in Kobani and Tel-El Abyad and even bombing Kurdish villages and troop concentrations. It took the United States long and strenuous efforts to convince the Turks to allow the coalition forces to use the Turkish Incirlik airbase against the IS in Syria and Iraq. When Turkey finally announced it was joining the air efforts against the IS, it soon appeared that most of the strikes were carried out against Kurdish targets rather than those of the IS. If one could describe the Turkish vector of support to the rebels, one could say that this vector could be represented as a figurative arrow directed from Turkey south and westwards in an effort to push Assad's loyalists to the coastal line and to force Assad to fight his last battle from his traditional strongholds. However, the Russians changed the equation to the detriment of the rebels and created a new situation that demanded new answers and solutions. Turkey Turns to Lebanon It now appears that in its efforts to destabilize Assad, Turkey may have chosen to take advantage of the already boiling situation in Lebanon between Hizbullah and its Sunni opponents and try to provoke a renewed civil war in Lebanon. Sending weapons to radical Sunni Islamists in northern Lebanon is but the tip of the iceberg and much remains to be seen on the ground before reaching such a conclusion. However, if this proves to be right, then, by doing so, the Turks would have created two new fronts: one that would attack the Latakia region from the south moving northwards and the other one that would generate civil war in Lebanon between Sunnis and Shiites, a situation that would force Hizbullah to withdraw its troops from Syria and return home to fight. By doing so, the Syrian regime would be deprived of some of its best troops and weakened, thus allowing the rebels assisted by Turkey to initiate renewed offensives in order to take back territory they have lost since the beginning of October 2015. This theory finds support in an article written by Fabrice Balanche, a French professor and specialist on Syria's political geography, a currently visiting fellow at the Washington Institute. His article4 published on February 5, 2016, analyzes the situation after the Syrian campaign supported by Iran, Hizbullah and Russia succeeded in cutting the northern insurgency supply line to Turkey. His remarks about possible countermoves by the Turkish and Saudi supporters of the insurgency in his article are worth underlining: Turkey and Saudi Arabia may not remain passive in the face of major Russian-Iranian progress in Syria. For example, they could set up a new rebel umbrella group similar to Jaysh al-Fatah, and/or send antiaircraft missiles to certain brigades. Another option is to open a new front in northern Lebanon, where local Salafist groups and thousands of desperate Syrian refugees could be engaged in the fight. Such a move would directly threaten Assad's Alawite heartland in Tartus and Homs, as well as the main road to Damascus. Regime forces would be outflanked, and Hizbullah's lines of communication, reinforcement, and supply between Lebanon and Syria could be cut off. This, of course, would partly explain the news that Greek authorities have detained a cargo ship, Kuki Boy, flying a Togo flag, on the island of Crete since February 28, 2016. The ship, loaded with weapons, was supposedly destined for Muslim radicals in the northern part of Lebanon. The ship, which had left the Turkish port of Mersin on February 4, 2016, was bound to reach the port of Tripoli in Lebanon. Intercepted by the Greek Coast Guard off the coast of Rhodes Island 63 miles southeast of the Turkish resort town of Bodrum, the ship was forced to dock at the port of Souda in Crete. Moreover, the report about the incident comes amid mounting political tension as Saudi Arabia and fellow Gulf States continue to take punitive measures against Lebanon (the annulment by Saudi Arabia of $4 billion in financing of weapons from France is but one example) in anger over what they see as Hizbullah's destructive influence over the country. According to one Sunni politician in Lebanon, Saudi Arabia was courting Syrian refugees in Lebanon with the goal of establishing an anti-Hizbullah Sunni militia. The politician said Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sees Sunni Syrian refugees with military training as a way to harass Hizbullah, and he may be using Saudi philanthropic organizations that provide aid to refugee camps as a way to court potential militia recruits. It was only logical that the uncovering of the weapons on the ship bound for Lebanon would trigger harsh criticism from pro-Hizbullah media. The immediate reaction was aired by Hassan Nasrallah, leader of Hizbullah, in his latest speech. While adopting a confrontational attitude towards Saudi Arabia, which had convinced the Gulf Arab monarchies to consider Hizbullah as a terrorist organization and to treat it accordingly, Nasrallah pointed at Turkey and its regional allies  Israel and Saudi Arabia  and accused them of trying to destabilize Lebanon, and pledged that he would not fall into the trap set by his enemies. The pro-Hizbullah media in Lebanon chose also to accuse Turkey and Saudi Arabia directly of destabilizing Lebanon as part and parcel of a greater scheme to bring down the Alawite regime in Syria. A pro-Hizbullah newspaper, Al-Akhbar, published an article warning that "foreign powers" seek to "explode the Lebanese arena." The pro-Hizbullah newspaper then claimed that Turkey had gathered "statistics in Lebanon, and collected information on the presence of 84,000 Lebanese of Turkmen origin about their location, their types of business and their political presence." However, Al-Akhbar did not explain what Ankara wanted to do with this supposed information. Instead, the paper claimed that Ankara was "working forcefully along with the Qataris in northern [Lebanese] areas in particular" to hamper support for the Future Movement headed by former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri. No doubt the latest events have emphasized once more the already known picture of the fighting alliances  Syria and its allies (Russia, Iran and Hizbullah) on the one hand, and Turkey in concert with Saudi Arabia and Qatar on the other hand. Cynically, both alliances are fighting on the same turf and conducting their confrontation through proxies. It appears now that both rival alliances are looking for the possible game changer in Syria which might turn out to be frail, paralyzed and divided Lebanon. 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 happened on Oahu didn't stay on Oahu By Paul Driessen

If modern activist groups held sway in the mid-nineteenth century, countless multitudes would have died from typhoid fever and cholera. The "miasma" paradigm held that the diseases were caused by foul air arising from putrid matter  and only dogged scientific work by William Budd, John Snow and others finally convinced medical and health authorities that the agent was lethal organisms in drinking water. Ultimately, the investigators' persistence led to discoveries of Vibrio and Salmonella bacteria, the use of chlorine-based disinfectants for drains, water purification and hand washing, programs that kept sewage away from drinking water supplies, and steady advances in germ and virus theories of medicine. Parallels exist today, with activist politics driving the science, rather than solid science guiding informed public policy decisions. One such arena is neonicotinoid pesticides and large-scale bee deaths. Europeans introduced domesticated honeybees to North America in the early 1600s. They helped foster phenomenal growth in important food crops like tomatoes and almonds. Indeed, over 60% of all U.S. beehives are needed each spring just to pollinate California's extensive almond groves. By contrast, staples like wheat, rice, corn and most citrus fruits do not require animal pollination at all (by bees, hummingbirds, hover flies, butterflies and bats); these crops are self-pollinating or wind-pollinated. Commercial beekeeping grew steadily, and today about 1% of all beekeepers manage nearly 80% of the 2.7 million U.S. honeybee colonies. The system generally functioned well until 1987, when a vicious new pest arrived. As the appropriately named Varroa destructor mite spread, beekeepers began reporting major to total losses of bees in Iowa, Michigan and Wisconsin hives in spring 2006, and later in Florida, the Dakotas, southern states, both U.S. coasts, Europe and elsewhere. Dubbed "colony collapse disorder" (CCD), the problem led to scarifying news stories about a "bee-pocalypse" and the imminent demise of modern agriculture. However, inexplicable bee colony losses had been reported in 1898, 1903, the 1960s and 1970s  even as far back as 940 AD in Ireland! Explanations included an undefined "disappearing disease," organophosphate pesticides, cell phone towers, GM crops that embed Bt insect killers in their genetic makeup, climate change (of course), and even a lack of "moral fiber" in bees, Paradigms and Demographics blogspot editor Rich Kozlovich notes. A psychic, he adds, claimed she was communicating with domesticated bees, who told her they were tired of being enslaved by humans and were leaving their hives to protest their crowded, inhumane conditions! Mounting evidence suggests that today's die-offs are primarily due to Varroa mites, along with parasitic phorid flies, Nosema fungal parasites, the tobacco ringspot virus  and even beekeepers misusing or over-using pesticides in hives to control disease outbreaks, by killing tiny bugs on little bees. However, anti-pesticide activists and some news stories continue to blame colony deaths and other bee problems on neonicotinoid insecticides. This new class of chemicals protects crops primarily (97% of the time) by coating seeds, letting plants incorporate the pesticide into their leaves and stems, to target insects that feed on them, without harming beneficial bugs. The regular rotation of different neonic products is also the only means currently available to kill the Asian psyllids that spread "citrus greening disease" (HLB), which is decimating citrus groves in Florida and is now spreading to Texas and California groves. This is where solid scientific detective work becomes vital. Without it, the wrong conclusions are drawn, the wrong "solutions" are applied, and the unintended consequences can be serious. For example, banning neonics will likely mean farmers are forced to use insecticides that truly are dangerous for bees. Over the past 50 years, Varroa mites have killed off millions of honeybee colonies around the world, scientists note. Among the diseases the mites carry is deformed wing virus, which results in short, twisted or otherwise deformed and useless wings. Like many other viral infections, DWV had long been present in hives, but was generally considered harmless before Varroa became ubiquitous. Disease-carrying mites bite through the bees' hard shell (exoskeleton) and inject viruses and infections directly into the bee blood (hemolymph). The mites' saliva also carries an enzyme that compromises the bees' immune systems, making the diseases far more toxic. Modern transportation methods disperse the problems far and wide. Making the beekeepers' challenge even more daunting, female Varroas often lay eggs in the same hexagonal beehive cells where the queen lays newly fertilized eggs, before worker bees "cap" the incubator cells. New honeybees then emerge with an infected mite already attached. And to top it off: Trying to kill vicious bugs you can't even see, in a box filled with some 40,000 buzzing bees that you don't want to hurt, using chemicals that could easily become toxic  and that the Varroa mites quickly become resistant to  is a devilishly complicated business, beekeepers like Randy Oliver attest. In fact, they are already on their third generation of miticides, and Varroa have become resistant to all of them. So the battle rages on, as pesticide companies again try to gain the upper hand against the crafty pests. Varroa was discovered on Oahu in August 2007. By spring 2008, 274 of 419 honeybee colonies on Oahu had collapsed, and wild bees had disappeared from its urban areas. Despite quarantine measures, by late 2010 the mite spread throughout the island of Hawaii. Now even effective Varroa control cannot eradicate DWV, since the disease is in their hemolymph and transmitted through feeding and sexual activity. Studies in the United Kingdom and New Zealand found similar mite, DWV infection and CCD patterns. Another nasty plague on honeybee houses involves parasitic phorid flies, which have now been found in California, Vermont and South Dakota hives. The flies stab bee abdomens and lay their eggs inside. When they hatch, fly larvae attack the bees' bodies and brains, disorienting them and causing them to fly in circles and at night  giving rise to stories about zombie bees, or "zombees." As the larvae mature into new flies, they exit the bees at their necks, decapitating them. Not surprisingly, phorid flies also carry DWV, Nosema parasites and other bee diseases. Meanwhile, in the real world where bees interact with nature, agriculture and pesticides (rather than with artificial laboratory conditions and egregious over-exposure to those pesticides), multiple studies in Canadian and other countries' canola and corn fields have concluded that neonicotinoids do not harm bees when used properly. And in equally good news, U.S. Department of Agriculture, StatsCanada, EU and UN data show that bee populations have been increasing over the past several years, with American and Canadian colony totals reaching their highest levels in a decade or more. And yet, news stories still say neonics threaten domesticated and wild bees with zombee-ism and extinction. That's partly because anti-pesticide groups are well funded, well organized, sophisticated in public relations, and aided by journalists who are lazy, gullible, believe the activist claims and support their cause, or simply live by the mantra "if it bleeds, it leads." A phony bee-pocalypse sells papers. The activists employ Saul Alinsky tactics to achieve political goals by manipulating science. They select and vilify a target. Devise a "scientific study" that predicts a public health disaster. Release it to the media, before honest scientists can analyze and criticize it. Generate "news" stories featuring emotional headlines and public consternation. Develop a Bigger Government "solution," and intimidate legislators and regulators until they impose it. Pressure manufacturers to stop making and selling the product. Too often, the campaigns are accompanied by callous attitudes about the unintended consequences. If banning neonics means older, more toxic pesticides kill millions of bees, so be it. If a DDT ban gives environmentalists more power and influence, millions of children and parents dying from malaria might be an acceptable price; at least they won't be exposed to exaggerated or fabricated risks from DDT. When activism and politics drives science, both science and society pay dearly. The stakes are too high, for wildlife and people, to let this continue. The perpetrators must be outed and defanged. Paul Driessen is senior policy analyst for the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow (www.CFACT.org) and author of Eco-Imperialism: Green power  Black death. Home
Consumer spending may well be in the doldrums, but punters who invested in blue-chip mall owner Hyprop Investments, when the share price was about R89, are in the pound seats.

Consumer spending may well be in the doldrums, but punters who invested in blue-chip mall owner Hyprop Investments in January, when the share price slumped to levels of about R89, are in the pound seats.

The stock has rebounded nearly 37% in the past two months, touching levels of R121.70 yesterday.

That is not too far off the R130 all-time high reached at the end of October. Hyprops share price recovery is no doubt partly due to a better-than-expected set of interim results and managements new offshore expansion strategy.

Hyprop delivered a healthy 13.4% rise in dividend payouts for the six months to December, ahead of the market forecast of 10%. Earnings were boosted by the stellar performance of Rosebank Mall in Johannesburg, following a major facelift and extension.

The companys Western Cape properties including Canal Walk and Somerset Mall, achieved double-digit growth in trading densities. That again underscores the notion that shopping centres that cater to higher-end consumers and dominate their catchment areas tend to be more resilient in a downturn than their mid to lower-income counterparts. Management has also impressed with its ability to secure global tenants, with Starbucks set to open its first South African outlet at Rosebank Mall next month and H&M opening a store at Clearwater Mall on the West Rand.

Investors are also supportive of Hyprops recent acquisition of a 60% stake in two Eastern European shopping centres, one in Serbia and the other in Montenegro.

Trade union Solidarity says Sasfin Bank must pay back the blood money it elicited for Highveld Steel and Vanadium when the steel producer went into business rescue nearly a year ago.

The bank extracted a R35m penalty on top of an early and immediate repayment of a R100m loan by the steel producer, by refusing to cede control of a debtors book needed to release funding from the state-mandated Industrial Development Corporation. Since then, about 2,300 workers have lost their jobs at the factory situated near Emalahleni in Mpumalanga.

Solidarity says Sasfin has been boasting in the media that its interim revenue for the period to December grew 19% to R568m. The union says prospects for Highvelds workers are grim, as the firm does not even have the funds to pay their severance packages.

The union is delivering food parcels to families of retrenched workers. It says the way in which Sasfin treated Highveld and its employees does not synch with claims on Sasfins website that it values the upliftment of communities. One hopes the R35m penalty charged by Sasfin did not go on staff bonuses in December.

source" Business Day
A series of distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks today briefly took down the websites of over a dozen U.S. airports, including those for Atlanta and Los Angeles International Airports. The at...
Researchers provide new evidence for cause and believe these mysterious plant formations exist in other arid regions

Beer-Sheva, Israel...March 22, 2016 - Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) and Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany are unraveling the mystery behind what causes "fairy circles." Recently discovered in the uninhabited Australian outback, fairy circles were thought to exist only in Africa.

According to a new study in the PNAS journal (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences), the research team found new evidence that these barren circular patches of land -- previously thought to exist only in the dry Namibia grassland of southern Africa -- occur due to the way plants organize themselves in response to water shortage.

Up to now, scientists offered several theories to explain the honeycomb-like pattern formed by these circles, which have long been considered one of nature's greatest mysteries. Some believed termites or ants nibble away at the roots of the grasses and kill them. Others suspected toxic carbon monoxide gas may rise from the earth under the circles and kill the vegetation.

But the discoveries documented in the March, 2016 study corroborate a third, self-organization theory, which shows the amount of water available at the transition between desert and grassland is not enough for continuous vegetation cover. As a result, individual plants compete for precious water and organize themselves in this highly irregular characteristic grass carpet with large holes that provide water to the surrounding vegetation.

The reported study consists of an empirical component, led by Dr. Stephan Getzin of UFZ in collaboration with Dr. Hezi Yizhaq and Prof. Itzhak Katra from BGU, and a theoretical part, led by Prof. Ehud Meron of BGU in collaboration with Dr. Hezi Yizhaq and Ph.D. students Yuval R. Zelnik and Omer Tzuk. The researchers combined fieldwork, remote sensing, spatial pattern analysis, mathematical modeling, and model analysis to demonstrate that the observed fairy circle patterns are self-organizing and are driven by positive biomass-water feedbacks that take place simultaneously throughout the whole system, and are not related to termite activity.

"Using model simulations we were able to show that the Australian fairy circle gap patterns share similar characteristics with model-produced patterns," Prof. Meron explains. "Furthermore, we showed that the formation of the patterns is driven by a positive feedback between vegetation growth and water transport toward the growth location, very much like in the Namibian ecosystem, as we found in an earlier study (Y. Zelnik, E. Meron, G. Bel, PNAS 2015).

"However, the two ecosystems differ in the water transport mechanism: below-ground soil-water diffusion in Namibia and above-ground water flow in Australia. The appearance of similar vegetation patterns in distinct ecosystems that exhibit different pattern-formation mechanisms is a manifestation of a central universality principle of pattern-formation theory, and provides further support for the applicability of this theory to water-limited ecosystems."

UFZ researcher Dr. Stephan Getzin, an early supporter of the termite hypothesis who changed his view following the recent advance in understanding vegetation patchiness as a self-organization phenomenon, has conducted extensive aerial-view studies of fairy circle landscapes. "The interesting thing about fairy circles is they are spread with great regularity and homogeneity, even over vast areas, but they occur only within a narrow rainfall belt," Getzin explains.

"This is consistent with model predictions that gap (fairy circle) patterns should appear in a limited precipitation range; above this range uniform vegetation prevails and below that range morphological changes to stripe and spot patterns take place," adds Meron.

To investigate the phenomenon more closely, Getzin went to Australia with his BGU counterpart, Hezi Yizhaq. The scientists measured the barren circles, compared their surface temperatures with those of vegetated areas, and charted indications of ants and termites in four parts of the almost uninhabited region. They also observed how the water drained away in these areas and took soil samples that were later analyzed in a BGU lab by Prof. Itzhak Katra.

Analyzing this data, the researchers concluded that the barren patches in Australia are not produced by animal activities. "In Australia, in the majority of cases, we found no nests in the circles. Unlike in Namibia, cryptic sand termites do not exist in Australia," Getzin says. "And the ones we did find have a completely different distribution pattern to the fairy circles."

Fairy circles, as observed in Namibia and now in Australia, are fascinating and intriguing pattern-formation phenomena. Unlike equally fascinating patterns in inanimate systems, however, self-organizing patterns in ecology may also have important implications for ecosystem function, especially in highly variable environments as we witness today.

A recent book by Prof. Meron, Nonlinear Physics of Ecosystems (CRC Press 2015), elaborates on these questions using the powerful concepts and mathematical tools of pattern formation theory. Among the questions addressed are how pattern formation affects desertification transitions, interspecific interactions and biodiversity, and the restoration of degraded landscapes.

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About American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

American Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AABGU) plays a vital role in sustaining David Ben-Gurion's vision, creating a world-class institution of education and research in the Israeli desert, nurturing the Negev community and sharing the University's expertise locally and around the globe. With some 20,000 students on campuses in Beer-Sheva, Sede Boqer and Eilat in Israel's southern desert, BGU is a university with a conscience, where the highest academic standards are integrated with community involvement, committed to sustainable development of the Negev. AABGU is headquartered in Manhattan and has nine regional offices throughout the United States. For more information, visit http://www.aabgu.org
(Washington, March 29, 2016) --The American College of Physicians (ACP) today released a new policy paper calling for changes that could slow the rising cost of prescription drugs. The paper, Stemming the Escalating Cost of Prescription Drugs, was published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

"In the United States we pay comparatively much more for prescription drugs than other countries, an increasing concern for all Americans," said Wayne J. Riley, MD, MPH, MBA, MACP, president of ACP. "The impact of these rising costs can be very detrimental to patients, causing them to forgo filling important prescriptions or not taking drugs on the schedule that they are prescribed."

The many issues surrounding prescription drug pricing are a complex problem. Because the research, development, regulatory and payment systems for prescription medication are deeply intertwined addressing the issue will take the combined efforts of many different stakeholders. Unlike other markets, competition alone may not be effective in encouraging innovation or controlling costs, especially without the price transparency required for true price competition.

To address the complex factors at play, ACP's paper offers a series of recommendations aimed at addressing and slowing down the rate of price increase for prescription drugs. ACP:

Supports transparency in the pricing, cost, and comparative value of all pharmaceutical products.

Supports the elimination of restrictions on using quality adjusted life years in comparative effectiveness research.

Supports novel approaches, including: allowing price negotiation by Medicare and other publicly-funded health programs, consideration of reimporting drugs manufactured in the United States, and policies and programs to increase competition for sole-source drugs.

Opposes extending market or data exclusivity periods beyond what is currently granted.

Supports approaches to encourage value-based decision making, including value frameworks, bundled payments, indication-specific pricing and evidence-based benefit designs that include explicit consideration of the pricing, cost, value, and comparative effectiveness of prescription medications included in a health plan's benefit package.

Believes that payers that use tiered or restrictive prescription drug formularies must ensure that patient cost-sharing is not set at a level that imposes a substantial economic barrier to patients.

Believes that biosimilar drug policy should aim to limit patient confusion between originator and biosimilar products.

"We continue to pay more and more for drugs, making it harder and harder for patients to afford critical prescriptions. This situation must change," concluded Dr. Riley. "A prescription drug can only be as effective as a patient's ability to access it and adhere to the medication as prescribed. Year after year of rising costs is clearly a burden for many patients that ultimately impacts their health and quality of life."

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The paper will be available at: http://www.annals.org/article.aspx?doi=10.7326/M15-2768. URL goes live when the embargo lifts.
1. ACP recommends policies to stem rising prescription drug costs

Free content: http://www.annals.org/article.aspx?doi=10.7326/M15-2768

URL goes live when the embargo lifts

The American College of Physicians (ACP) calls for changes that could slow the rising cost of prescription drugs. The policy paper, Stemming the Escalating Cost of Prescription Drugs, is published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

ACP president, Wayne J. Riley, MD, MPH, MBA, MACP, says that rising prescription drug costs can be detrimental to patients, causing them to forgo filling important prescriptions or not taking drugs on the schedule that they are prescribed. But addressing the issue is complex because the research, development, regulatory and payment systems for prescription medication are deeply intertwined. As such, competition alone may not be effective in encouraging innovation or controlling costs, especially without the price transparency required for true price competition.

ACP's paper offers a series of recommendations aimed at addressing and slowing down the rate of price increase for prescription drugs. In brief, ACP calls for:

transparency in the pricing, cost, and comparative value of all pharmaceutical products;

the elimination of restrictions on using quality adjusted life years in comparative effectiveness research;

use of novel approaches, including allowing price negotiation by Medicare and other publicly-funded health programs;

approaches that encourage value-based decision making;

patient cost-sharing that is not set at a level that imposes a substantial economic barrier to patients; and

policies on biosimilar drugs that limit patient confusion between originator and biosimilar products.

ACP opposes extending market or data exclusivity periods beyond what is currently granted.

Note: For an embargoed PDF, please contact Cara Graeff. For an interview with someone from ACP, please contact David Kinsman at dkinsman@acponline.org or 202-261-4554.

2. Personalized doctor office interventions show small potential for preventing depression

Abstract: http://www.annals.org/article.aspx?doi=10.7326/M14-2653

URL goes live when the embargo lifts

Personalized primary care-delivered interventions may hold some promise for preventing major depression in adults, according to an article published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Major depression, an important cause of human suffering, is projected to rank as the greatest contributor to disease burden in high-income countries within the next 15 years. It is possible to prevent depression, however, little is known about the effectiveness of such prevention efforts. Because of its prevalence and because so many people receive treatment in primary care, researchers sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a depression prevention intervention for adult patients implemented in primary practice.

More than 3,000 patients at 70 primary care centers in several cities in Spain were randomly assigned to receive either usual care or a depression intervention. For each patient, the primary care provider communicated individual risk for depression based on characteristics, such as marital status, living situation, occupation, and health history. The physicians then developed a tailored psychosocial program to prevent depression.

At 18 months, about 7.4 percent of patients in the intervention group developed major depression compared with about 9.4 percent in the control group. Based on this modest but statistically insignificant reduction in depression, the researchers suggest that additional study of this approach may be warranted.

Note: For an embargoed PDF, please contact Cara Graeff. To reach the lead author, Dr. Juan Angel Bellon, please contact Elena Martin at elena.martin@ibima.eu or +34 671598903.

3. Ticks carrying CRT may infect wider regions of China than previously thought

Abstract: http://www.annals.org/article.aspx?doi=10.7326/M15-2572

URL goes live when the embargo lifts

Ticks carrying Candidatus R tarasevichiae (CRT) may cause human infection in wider regions of China than previously thought, according to a case series published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), a tick-borne viral disease, is endemic in eastern China. Another tick-borne infection caused by CRT was reported in northeastern China in 2012. Researchers wondered if the newly recognized pathogenic Rickettsia species in the Northeast were present in SFTS-endemic region of eastern central China as well.

Researchers extracted DNA from anticoagulated blood specimens collected from 733 patients who were treated for suspected SFTS at a hospital located in an area where a severe epidemic had occurred. They found that 56 of the patients were infected with CRT and 37 were coinfected with SFTS virus. A review of medical records for those patients showed that CRT symptoms were largely nonspecific.

The researchers concluded that since symptoms are similar to those experienced with SFTS and coinfection is possible, patients presenting with SFTS-like illness in endemic areas should also be assessed for CRT.

Note: For an embargoed PDF or author contact information, please contact Cara Graeff.

Also in this issue:

Diaphragmatic Cardiac Compression Mimicking Defecation Syncope: A Case Report

Yalcin Velibey, MD; Tolga S. Guvenc, MD; Murat Ugur, MD; Ozge Guzelburc, MD, Mehmet Eren, MD

Case Report

http://www.annals.org/article.aspx?doi=10.7326/L15-0594

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MICHOACAN, MEXICO - Endangerment of certain cacti species is caused by multiple factors, most notably illicit extraction. In an effort to curb this endangerment and plan for repopulation of threatened species, scientists have been researching the most efficient methods of cloning. Recently, tests on Turbinicarpus valdezianus (Moller) Glass & Foster (Cactaceae), a species of cactus endemic to Northern Mexico suffering from habitat loss, proved very successful at inducing shoot proliferation and roots through in vitro cloning. Raul Cardenas Navarro, in an article published in HortScience (January 2016), says that the successful tests prove to be a good option for rescuing wild populations of the species that are suffering from habitat loss.

Over the past few decades, many successful cloning tests have been documented for threatened species of wild cactus, and the same methods were applied to the T. valdezianus experiments. Clones of T. valdezianus seedlings were germinated in vitro in a Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium, and after 20 weeks of incubation, the medium was supplemented with varying amounts of 6-furfurylaminopurine (KIN) and -napthalenacetic (NAA).

Tests showed that T. valdezianus proved especially reactive to KIN supplementation in the basal medium, resulting in a relatively higher shoot proliferation than the seedling supplemented with NAA. "A contrariwise effect was registered for NAA," said Navarro. "The average number of shoots decreased." While the shoots treated with KIN were slow to root compared to the control seedlings with no supplementation, they soon caught up, with both controlled and KIN treated seedlings showing 98% root development.

The authors said that preservation of endangered plant species is important, and with this propagation system, T. valdezianus can be cloned and extinction can be prevented. "It has great potential for cloning genotypes of threatened populations," Navarro added, "and can be used to alleviate illicit extraction of wild individuals from their natural habitat." The authors said that the results of this study, and other studies from the past few decades, will greatly impact the ability to preserve endangered cacti species.

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The complete study and abstract are available on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal web site: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/51/1/94.abstract

Founded in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) is the largest organization dedicated to advancing all facets of horticultural research, education, and application. More information at ashs.org
SYRACUSE, NY - The American chestnut was once a mainstay in hardwood forests as far north as Maine and as far south as Georgia and Mississippi. A massive chestnut blight in the early part of the 20th century ended the mighty chestnut's domination, wiping out billions of mature trees. Scientists are now working to restore the American chestnut's place in U.S. forests. A study published in the February issue of HortScience provides new recommendations that can help increase the stock of blight-resistant trees.

According to the authors, genetic engineering is now poised to offer a solution: blight-resistant American chestnut trees. "The addition of one gene, oxalate oxidase, can protect the American chestnut by breaking down the oxalic acid secreted by the fungus," explained Dr. Allison Oakes, corresponding author of the study. The fungus still infects wounds in the bark, but after the initial infection the resistant tree halts the spread of the fungus behind a layer of plant tissue.

Oakes and colleagues Tyler Desmarais, William Powell, and Charles Maynard from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry say that hundreds of American chestnut trees are needed for field trials and eventual restoration plantings, but noted that "production is bottlenecked" because of the difficulty of making hardwood trees produce roots through micropropagation. "The presence of roots and living shoot tips precede successful acclimatization of tissue culture-produced American chestnut plantlets," they explained. To improve the post-rooting stage of American chestnut propagation protocol, the scientists designed four experiments in which they examined vessel type, concentrations of humic acid and activated charcoal, and use of a vermiculite substrate.

Results showed that the presence of activated charcoal in the postrooting medium significantly increased the percentage of rooted plantlets, but increasing the concentration did not significant affect root presence. However, increasing concentrations of activated charcoal did have a significant effect on number of roots, and length of the longest root.

In regard to vessel type, results showed that using disposable clamshell containers during postrooting significantly decreased the survival of shoot tips, but significantly increased root formation. The presence of activated charcoal across vermiculite treatments increased root presence and number of roots while decreasing shoot tip survival. "High concentrations of humic acid combined with activated charcoal had excellent and significantly higher root presence than all the treatments without activated charcoal," the authors noted. They added that this trend was similar for root number.

According to the report, an "overarching trend" evidenced across the experiments was that activated charcoal enhanced root growth but slightly decreased shoot tip survival.

"Our findings have broad implications for tissue culture and genetic engineering of target hardwood species," Oakes said. "The combination of humic acid and activated charcoal in rooting medium more than doubled the number of roots produced by micropropagated shoots than either compound alone. Vermiculite substrate may be an alternative with additional research and methods development."

The authors said that the recommendations could be applicable to other difficult-to-root hardwood trees in transgenic programs, such as American butternut, white oak, and black walnut.

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The complete study and abstract are available on the ASHS HortScience electronic journal web site: http://hortsci.ashspublications.org/content/51/2/171.abstract

Founded in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) is the largest organization dedicated to advancing all facets of horticultural research, education, and application. More information at ashs.org
Arizona State University has received a $10.18 million grant from NASA's Science Mission Directorate Education Community to develop next-generation digital learning experiences that incorporate NASA science content.

Principal Investigator Lindy Elkins-Tanton and Deputy Principal Investigator Ariel Anbar of ASU's School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE) will lead the development and evaluation teams for this grant.

During the five-year program, ASU-based teams will work with the Inspark Science Network and ASU's Center for Education Through eXploration (ETX), to develop a new way of learning and teaching through exploration of the unknown, at scale, via a digital learning design platform.

The Inspark Science Network is a joint initiative of ETX and adaptive learning pioneer Smart Sparrow, designed to promote active learning and teaching science through exploration.

The Network was launched in 2015, with support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to create new digital courseware that incorporates online simulations, virtual field trips and adaptive learning analytics to help students who typically fail science courses succeed.

"SESE is known for combining the creative strengths of science, engineering and education, setting the stage for a new era of exploration," says Elkins-Tanton. "With this grant, we can promote a greater public understanding and appreciation for science, and inspire a new generation of explorers. We hope to share the exciting world of NASA science in a way that is both approachable and interactive."

Of particular focus will be the "active and adaptive" approach to science education, where learning becomes interactive and the platform can be modified for different audiences and teaching goals.

"The aim is to help learners become problem-solvers capable of exploring the unknown, rather than just mastering what is already known," says Anbar. "It is learning science as process and as a universe of questions rather than as a dusty collection of facts."

The ASU team is also led by Co-Investigators Steven Semken and Sheri Klug-Boonstra as well as ASU professor of practice and Smart Sparrow CEO Dror Ben-Naim. Other co-investigators include SESE's Erik Asphaug, Jim Bell, Philip Christensen, Scott Parazynski, Meenakshi Wadhwa, Sara Imari Walker, David Williams and Patrick Young.

Together with Smart Sparrow, this team will develop personalized and adaptive learning experiences centered on astrobiology and "small bodies" such as Saturn's moon Enceladus, Jupiter's moon Europa, and asteroids. These are specific areas of expertise among the NASA subject matter experts on the ASU team.

"By pairing the best of learning technology and design with NASA's groundbreaking research and experience, educators will be able to inspire students in new ways," says Ben-Naim.

In the near term, the focus will be on independent self-learners of science. In the longer term, the team seeks to expand the program to formal K-12 education, in coordination with NASA's new education strategies.

"This grant brings together education powerhouses - ASU and NASA, together with a trusted edtech partner - to promote STEM education through exploration," said Sethuraman "Panch" Panchanathan, chief research and innovation officer and executive vice president at the ASU Knowledge Enterprise. "This opportunity helps ASU engage and empower learners from all backgrounds and proficiencies to master concepts, ask open-ended questions regarding what's next, and prepare to explore the unknown with the help of technology."

NASA's Science Mission Directorate (SMD) Education Community vision is to share the story, the science, and the adventure of NASA's scientific explorations of our home planet, the solar system, and the universe beyond, through stimulating and informative activities and experiences created by experts, delivered effectively and efficiently to learners of many backgrounds via proven conduits, thus providing a direct return on the public's investment in NASA's scientific research.

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About Arizona State University

Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American Research University, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
BOSTON - March 28, 2016 - Precise measurements of leaks from natural gas pipelines across metropolitan Boston have demonstrated that almost a sixth of the leaks qualified as potentially explosive, and that a handful of leaks emitted half of the total gas lost.

The findings by Boston University researchers differ significantly from results gathered by gas companies and other monitoring groups, and highlight the risks that these "fugitive" gas emissions pose both for safety and the environment, says Margaret Hendrick, a PhD candidate in BU's Earth & Environment department.

Hendrick is lead author on a paper published today in Environmental Pollution, which emphasizes the need to develop standardized ways to detect leaks and prioritize their repair.

Natural gas is considered a relatively clean fossil fuel, but a substantial amount of the gas is lost in production and distribution. In addition to the safety risks, methane (the main component of natural gas) is a major contributor to atmospheric warming.

Gas pipelines may date back as early as the mid-nineteenth century in east coast cities such as Boston. About a third of the installed pipelines use leak-prone materials such as cast iron, wrought iron or unprotected steel. There are thousands of gas leaks in these cities, but how the sizes of these leaks vary in an urban area "was a big black box until this project," Hendrick says.

She and her colleagues looked at emissions from cast iron pipelines at 100 sites in greater Boston where leaks had been detected in the air along roadways. The researchers painstakingly analyzed the release of methane inside custom-built chambers created with plastic buckets and the lids from child sandboxes. "To fully ascertain the safety hazards of leaks really does require us to get out on the ground with instrumentation," Hendrick explains.

This was the first survey that performed detailed measurements of loss from pipelines on this urban scale, says Professor of Earth and Environment Nathan Phillips, Hendrick's advisor and senior author on the paper.

Risk of explosion doesn't necessarily correlate with the amount of methane leaking, because the local environment around the leak also plays a part. "Even a very small leak can be a great safety concern," says Hendrick, who notes that a 2014 gas explosion in Dorchester injured 12 people. There were 113 gas distribution pipeline incidents, with 18 fatalities, in the United States that year.

The seven "super-emitter" leaks that released half the methane in the study also raise warning signs for climate change. Methane accounts for about one tenth of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. On average over a 20-year period, a methane molecule released into the atmosphere traps about 86 times as much heat as does a carbon dioxide molecule, Phillips points out.

"We know we have a problem with aging natural gas infrastructure, but we need a better understanding of how big the problem is and the best ways to solve it," Hendrick says.

One major issue is a lack of agreement on the number of gas leaks. For instance, Phillips led a 2013 survey on all Boston city roads that found 3,356 gas leaks. The most recent estimate from an annual report filed by National Grid with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU), which regulates natural gas in the state, is about half that number.

Massachusetts categorizes gas leaks by risk, with potentially explosive leaks given a Grade 1 classification. The National Grid annual report cited a total of 36 Grade 1 leaks--but the BU fieldwork, identifying 15 out of 100 leaks as Grade 1, suggests that that figure may be low.

Even if all parties agree on how to assess gas leaks and prioritize their repair, fixing them won't be inexpensive, and the cost is borne by gas customers.

"We're stuck in this conundrum where if we were to retrofit this infrastructure quickly, there would be huge rate increases, and families might not be able to pay their utility bills," Hendrick says. "But it isn't if these old pipes will start leaking, it's when."

Bills now before the Massachusetts legislature may help to better address these challenges. In the meantime, the BU researchers encourage the public to stay watchful for any gas leaks. "People may become habituated to the smell of a gas leak, but if you smell one you should call it in to your local gas company," says Phillips.

While the first priority in dealing with leaks is to assure public safety, it's also critical to consider the climate implications, Hendrick emphasizes. Her paper proposes a leak classification scheme that includes both safety and climate risks.

"We are consuming more natural gas than ever before in the United States," she notes. "We need research to try to characterize fugitive methane emissions across the entire natural gas system."

That need is highlighted by the recent environmental disaster as natural gas escaped from storage in Porter Ranch, California--the worst such leak in U.S. history. "We're starting to realize that unless the entire natural gas system is better regulated, the carbon footprint may be just as bad for natural gas as it is for coal and oil," Hendrick says.

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BU graduate students Bahare Sanaie-Movaheda and Xiaojing Tang, and Robert Ackley of Gas Safety, contributed to the study. Funding came from the Conservation Law Foundation, the Barr Foundation, the Environmental Protection Agency STAR program and the National Science Foundation ULTRA-Ex program.
Most non-Africans possess at least a little bit Neanderthal DNA. But a new map of archaic ancestry--published March 28 in Current Biology--suggests that many bloodlines around the world, particularly of South Asian descent, may actually be a bit more Denisovan, a mysterious population of hominids that lived around the same time as the Neanderthals. The analysis also proposes that modern humans interbred with Denisovans about 100 generations after their trysts with Neanderthals.

The Harvard Medical School/UCLA research team that created the map also used comparative genomics to make predictions about where Denisovan and Neanderthal genes may be impacting modern human biology. While there is still much to uncover, Denisovan genes can potentially be linked to a more subtle sense of smell in Papua New Guineans and high-altitude adaptions in Tibetans. Meanwhile, Neanderthal genes found in people around the world most likely contribute to tougher skin and hair.

"There are certain classes of genes that modern humans inherited from the archaic humans with whom they interbred, which may have helped the modern humans to adapt to the new environments in which they arrived," says senior author David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School and the Broad Institute. "On the flip side, there was negative selection to systematically remove ancestry that may have been problematic from modern humans. We can document this removal over the 40,000 years since these admixtures occurred."

Reich and lab members, Swapan Mallick and Nick Patterson, teamed up with previous laboratory member Sriram Sankararaman, now an Assistant Professor of computer science at the University of California, Los Angeles, on the project, which found evidence that both Denisovan and Neanderthal ancestry has been lost from the X chromosome, as well as genes expressed in the male testes. They theorize that this has contributed to reduced fertility in males, which is commonly observed in other hybrids between two highly divergent groups of the same species.

The researchers collected their data by comparing known Neanderthal and Denisovan gene sequences across more than 250 genomes from 120 non-African populations publically available through the Simons Genome Diversity Project (there is little evidence for Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry in Africans). The analysis was carried out by a machine-learning algorithm that could differentiate between components of both kinds of ancestral DNA, which are more similar to one another than to modern humans.

The results showed that individuals from Oceania possess the highest percentage of archaic ancestry and south Asians possess more Denisovan ancestry than previously believed. This reveals previously unknown interbreeding events, particularly in relation to Denisovans. In contrast, Western Eurasians are the non-Africans least likely to have Neanderthal or Denisovan genes. "The interactions between modern humans and archaic humans are complex and perhaps involved multiple events," Reich says.

The study's main limitation is that it relies on the current library of ancient genomes available. The researchers caution against drawing any conclusions about our extinct human ancestors based on the genetics and possible traits that they left behind. "We can't use this data to make claims about what the Denisovans or Neanderthals looked like, what they ate, or what kind of diseases they were susceptible to," says Sankararaman, first author on the paper. "We are still very far from understanding that."

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The authors were supported by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

Current Biology, Sankararaman et al.: "The Combined Landscape of Denisovan and Neanderthal Ancestry in Present-Day Humans" http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2016.03.037

Current Biology (@CurrentBiology), published by Cell Press, is a bimonthly journal that features papers across all areas of biology. Current Biology strives to foster communication across fields of biology, both by publishing important findings of general interest and through highly accessible front matter for non-specialists. Learn more at http://www.cell.com/current-biology. To receive Cell Press media alerts, contact press@cell.com.
When it comes to the various nanowidgets scientists are developing, nanotubes are especially intriguing. That's because hollow tubes that have diameters of only a few billionths of a meter have the potential to be incredibly useful, from delivering cancer-fighting drugs inside cells to desalinating seawater.

But building nanostructures is difficult. And creating a large quantity of nanostructures with the same trait, such as millions of nanotubes with identical diameters, is even more difficult. This kind of precision manufacturing is needed to create the nanotechnologies of tomorrow.

Help could be on the way. As reported online the week of March 28 in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have discovered a family of nature-inspired polymers that, when placed in water, spontaneously assemble into hollow crystalline nanotubes. What's more, the nanotubes can be tuned to all have the same diameter of between five and ten nanometers, depending on the length of the polymer chain.

The polymers have two chemically distinct blocks that are the same size and shape. The scientists learned these blocks act like molecular tiles that form rings, which stack together to form nanotubes up to 100 nanometers long, all with the same diameter.

"This points to a new way we can use synthetic polymers to create complex nanostructures in a very precise way," says Ron Zuckermann, who directs the Biological Nanostructures Facility in Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry, where much of this research was conducted.

Several other Berkeley Lab scientists contributed to this research, including Nitash Balsara of the Materials Sciences Division and Ken Downing of the Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division.

"Creating uniform structures in high yield is a goal in nanotechnology," adds Zuckermann. "For example, if you can control the diameter of nanotubes, and the chemical groups exposed in their interior, then you can control what goes through--which could lead to new filtration and desalination technologies, to name a few examples."

The research is the latest in the effort to build nanostructures that approach the complexity and function of nature's proteins, but are made of durable materials. In this work, the Berkeley Lab scientists studied a polymer that is a member of the peptoid family. Peptoids are rugged synthetic polymers that mimic peptides, which nature uses to form proteins. They can be tuned at the atomic scale to carry out specific functions.

For the past several years, the scientists have studied a particular type of peptoid, called a diblock copolypeptoid, because it binds with lithium ions and could be used as a battery electrolyte. Along the way, they serendipitously found the compounds form nanotubes in water. How exactly these nanotubes form has yet to be determined, but this latest research sheds light on their structure, and hints at a new design principle that could be used to build nanotubes and other complex nanostructures.

Diblock copolypeptoids are composed of two peptoid blocks, one that's hydrophobic one that's hydrophilic. The scientists discovered both blocks crystallize when they meet in water, and form rings consisting of two to three individual peptoids. The rings then form hollow nanotubes.

Cryo-electron microscopy imaging of 50 of the nanotubes showed the diameter of each tube is highly uniform along its length, as well as from tube to tube. This analysis also revealed a striped pattern across the width of the nanotubes, which indicates the rings stack together to form tubes, and rules out other packing arrangements. In addition, the peptoids are thought to arrange themselves in a brick-like pattern, with hydrophobic blocks lining up with other hydrophobic blocks, and the same for hydrophilic blocks.

"Images of the tubes captured by electron microscopy were essential for establishing the presence of this unusual structure," says Balsara. "The formation of tubular structures with a hydrophobic core is common for synthetic polymers dispersed in water, so we were quite surprised to see the formation of hollow tubes without a hydrophobic core."

X-ray scattering analyses conducted at beamline 7.3.3 of the Advanced Light Source revealed even more about the nanotubes' structure. For example, it showed that one of the peptoid blocks, which is usually amorphous, is actually crystalline.

Remarkably, the nanotubes assemble themselves without the usual nano-construction aids, such as electrostatic interactions or hydrogen bond networks.

"You wouldn't expect something as intricate as this could be created without these crutches," says Zuckermann. "But it turns out the chemical interactions that hold the nanotubes together are very simple. What's special here is that the two peptoid blocks are chemically distinct, yet almost exactly the same size, which allows the chains to pack together in a very regular way. These insights could help us design useful nanotubes and other structures that are rugged and tunable--and which have uniform structures."

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The Advanced Light Source and the Molecular Foundry are DOE Office of Science User Facilities located at Berkeley Lab.

The research was supported by the Department of Energy's Office of Science.

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory addresses the worlds 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 Labs scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energys Office of Science. For more, visit www.lbl.gov.

DOEs 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 science.energy.gov.
UPTON, NY-The proton sounds like a simple object, but it's not. Inside, there's a teeming microcosm of quarks and gluons with properties such as spin and "color" charge that contribute to the particle's seemingly simplistic role as a building block of visible matter. By analyzing the particle debris emitted from collisions of polarized protons at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC, https://www.bnl.gov/rhic/), scientists say they've found a new way to glimpse that internal microcosm. They've measured a key effect of the so-called color interaction-the basis for the strong nuclear force that binds quarks within the proton. This new measurement tests, for the first time, theoretical concepts that are essential for mapping the proton's three-dimensional internal structure.

The research, described in a paper to be published as an Editor's Suggestion in Physical Review Letters, is only possible at RHIC, a 2.4-mile circular particle collider that operates as a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science User Facility for nuclear physics research at DOE's Brookhaven National Laboratory. RHIC is unique in that it uses specialized magnets to strategically align the spins of billions of tiny protons so they are mostly pointing in a particular direction as they circulate and collide.

This adjustable polarization is essential for teasing out details of the particles' internal structure, including how their constituent quarks and glue-like binding particles called gluons contribute to the protons' overall spin, and how these particles interact.

"In this experiment, the polarization gives scientists a unique way to understand hard-to-catch details of how the 'color' charges of quarks and gluons affect their microcosmic interactions," explained Brookhaven physicist Elke Aschenauer, a member of the scientific collaboration using RHIC's STAR detector to analyze the subatomic smashups.

Colors seen and unseen

If you've ever seen the colorful images of particle tracks emerging from collisions at STAR, you might wonder what all the fuss over "color" is about. STAR has been producing these firework-like displays since RHIC started operating in June 2000. The colors of those tracks help identify the types of particles emerging from RHIC collisions. But the "color" of the quarks that make up the colliding ions is a rather different concept. It's a type of charge that borrows a naming convention from our understanding of visible light because it comes in three forms that must be combined to form a neutral state-similar to the way the three primary colors of light (red, green, and blue) combine to form "neutral" white light.

As is the case with more-familiar positive and negative electric charges, in color charge, opposites attract and like charges repel.

"To get neutral (white) you need all three colors. So the opposite of each individual color charge is the other two combined," Aschenauer said.

The need for three differently colored quarks to combine is the defining property of the strong nuclear force-which makes it impossible for quarks to be free, and ultimately binds protons and neutrons to form the atoms of visible matter. While several experiments have sought to measure the effects of the attractive interaction that binds "unlike" color charges, scientists have now, for the first time, measured an effect of the repulsive color interaction when "like" color charges meet up in particle collisions at RHIC.

Same asymmetry, opposite sign

Probing the effects of color charge interactions in particle collisions at STAR is no easy task. As STAR collaborator Salvatore Fazio explained, the RHIC physicists do it by measuring the number, trajectory, and energy level of particles called W bosons that emerge from RHIC's collisions of polarized protons. But Ws decay in a flash-into an electron, which is fairly easy to pick up, and a neutrino, a notoriously elusive particle that quickly escapes. To get a read on the neutrino's energy, the scientists must detect all the particles that recoil in the opposite direction from the escaping neutrino-then add all that together with the energy of the electron to get the information they need about each W.

This reconstruction of a particle from a jet-like spray of debris requires a big detector with a very large acceptance-the ability to track a wide variety of particles over a very large area. In other words, you need STAR, a tracking detector that, like a giant barrel, covers the region around the point where the beams collide and is capable of catching thousands of particle sprays per second.

"The details about this measurement are very technical," Fazio said, "but counting up all the Ws can point to something called a 'single transverse spin asymmetry'-an imbalance in the number of these particles emerging to one side of the detector compared to the other depending on where the spin of the proton is pointing." This measurement is a big step toward verifying a long-standing theoretical prediction based on insights into the workings of the color interaction.

As Aschenauer pointed out, "There are a lot of initiatives in the world to measure this asymmetry in electron- or muon-proton collisions, using fixed targets at other facilities such as COMPASS, HERMES, and Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility. But all the measurements from those experiments reflect the effects of the attractive force between 'unlike' color charges. The only way to test the theory of the color interaction being in one case attractive and in the other repulsive is to have an observable that is driven by the repulsive interaction between 'like' color charges-which is what we were able to test with polarized proton-proton collisions at RHIC."

The hypothesis was that the RHIC experiment would produce the same spatial imbalance in W production, but in the opposite direction as seen in the experiments sensitive to the interactions of "unlike" color charges. The experimental test of this "sign change" is one of the open questions in hadronic physics and was recently noted as a priority by the nation's Nuclear Science Advisory Committee (NSAC).

Even after conducting these studies for a relatively short time as a way to prove the concept, the STAR team says they've seen a hint of the sign change, but more data are needed to be sure.

"Because it is such a complicated measurement, we initially did not dedicate an entire run to this. But now we do have a hint we want to pursue," Fazio said. The team hopes to nail the case in the RHIC run of 2017, which for STAR, will be dedicated to this measurement.

In addition, because these new findings align with the theory scientists have been using to describe the inner structure of the proton, they also support their plan to use future collisions of electrons with polarized protons at a proposed electron ion collider (EIC) to conduct detailed studies of the internal structure of the proton.

"These STAR measurements give an indication of the internal momentum of quarks and gluons, both in the direction of motion but also transverse momentum. An EIC would unravel all the necessary details to produce 3D pictures of the proton's momentum structure," Aschenauer said.

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Research at RHIC is supported primarily by the DOE Office of Science (NP) and by these agencies and organizations: https://www.bnl.gov/rhic/funding.asp.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is supported by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy. The 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 science.energy.gov.

One of ten national laboratories overseen and primarily funded by the Office of Science of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Brookhaven National Laboratory conducts research in the physical, biomedical, and environmental sciences, as well as in energy technologies and national security. Brookhaven Lab also builds and operates major scientific facilities available to university, industry and government researchers. Brookhaven is operated and managed for DOE's Office of Science by Brookhaven Science Associates, a limited-liability company founded by the Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University, the largest academic user of Laboratory facilities, and Battelle, a nonprofit applied science and technology organization.

Related Links

Scientific paper: "Measurement of the transverse single-spin asymmetry in p?+p?W/Z0 at RHIC" [preprint version: http://arxiv.org/abs/1511.06003]

Using measurements of W bosons to probe proton spin

Latest spin results including those from W boson production analyses

An electronic version of this news release with related graphics

Media contacts: Karen McNulty Walsh, (631) 344-8350, kmcnulty@bnl.gov, or Peter Genzer, (631) 344-3174, genzer@bnl.gov
Working with human breast cancer cells and mice, scientists at The Johns Hopkins University say new experiments explain how certain cancer stem cells thrive in low oxygen conditions. Proliferation of such cells, which tend to resist chemotherapy and help tumors spread, are considered a major roadblock to successful cancer treatment.

The new research, suggesting that low-oxygen conditions spur growth through the same chain of biochemical events in both embryonic stem cells and breast cancer stem cells, could offer a path through that roadblock, the investigators say.

"There are still many questions left to answer but we now know that oxygen poor environments, like those often found in advanced human breast cancers serve as nurseries for the birth of cancer stem cells," says Gregg Semenza, M.D., Ph.D., the C. Michael Armstrong Professor of Medicine and a member of the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. "That gives us a few more possible targets for drugs that diminish their threat in human cancer."

A summary of the findings was published online March 21 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Semenza says scientists have long known that low oxygen environments affect tumor growth, but, in the case of advanced tumors, there was a paradox. "Aggressive cancers contain regions where the cancer cells are starved for oxygen and die off, yet patients with these tumors generally have the worst outcome. Our new findings tell us that low oxygen conditions actually encourage certain cancer stem cells to multiply through the same mechanism used by embryonic stem cells."

All stem cells are immature cells known for their ability to multiply indefinitely and give rise to progenitor cells that mature into specific cell types that populate the body's tissues during embryonic development. They also replenish tissues throughout the life of an organism. But stem cells found in tumors use those same attributes and twist them to maintain and enhance the survival of cancers. According to Semenza, "Chemotherapy may kill more than 99 percent of the cancer cells in a tumor but fail to kill a small population of cancer stem cells that are responsible for subsequent cancer relapse and metastasis."

"The search has been intense to find these cells' Achilles' heel. If we could get cancer stem cells to abandon their stem cell state, they would no longer have the power to keep repopulating tumors," says Semenza, who also directs the Vascular Biology Research Program at the Institute for Cell Engineering.

Aiding their new research, Semenza says, was the knowledge that whereas the air we breathe is 21 percent oxygen, oxygen levels average around 9 percent in healthy human breast tissue but only 1.4 percent in breast tumors. Recent studies showed that low oxygen conditions increase levels of a family of proteins known as HIFs, or hypoxia-inducible factors, that turn on hundreds of genes, including one called NANOG that instructs cells to become stem cells.

Studies of embryonic stem cells revealed that NANOG protein levels can be lowered by a chemical process known as methylation, which involves putting a methyl group chemical tag on a protein's messenger RNA (mRNA) precursor. Semenza says methylation leads to the destruction of NANOG's mRNA so that no protein is made, which in turn causes the embryonic stem cells to abandon their stem cell state and mature into different cell types.

To see whether cancer stem cell renewal involves a chain of events similar to that used by embryonic stem cells, and whether the process was affected by oxygen levels, Semenza and graduate student Chuanzhao Zhang focused their studies on two human breast cancer cell lines that responded to low oxygen by ramping up production of the protein ALKBH5, which removes methyl groups from mRNAs. (Breast cancer is categorized and treated based on the presence or absence of three hormone receptors displayed on the outer membranes of cells. One human cell line they studied displays the receptors for estrogen and progesterone, and one, known as triple negative, displays none.)

Zeroing in on NANOG, the scientists found that low oxygen conditions increased NANOG's mRNA levels through the action of HIF proteins, which turned on the gene for ALKBH5, which decreased the methylation and subsequent destruction of NANOG's mRNA. When they prevented the cells from making ALKBH5, NANOG levels and the number of cancer stem cells decreased. When the researchers manipulated the cell's genetics to increase levels of ALKBH5 without exposing them to low oxygen, they found this also decreased methylation of NANOG mRNA and increased the numbers of breast cancer stem cells.

Finally, using live mice, the scientists injected 1,000 triple-negative breast cancer cells into their mammary fat pads, where the mouse version of breast cancer forms. Unaltered cells created tumors in all seven mice injected with such cells, but when cells missing ALKBH5 were used, they caused tumors in only 43 percent (six out of 14) of mice. "That confirmed for us that ALKBH5 helps preserve cancer stem cells and their tumor-forming abilities," Semenza says.

Semenza says his team will continue its mouse studies to see if metastasis -- the spread of cancer from the original tumor -- is affected by the low oxygen/ALKBH5/NANOG relationship too. The researchers also want to see what other proteins and mRNAs are involved in the relationship, and why some cancer cell lines they tested did not show the same increased ALKBH5 levels in response to low oxygen levels.

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Other authors of the report include Debangshu Samanta, Haiquan Lu, John Bullen, Huimin Zhang and Ivan Chen of the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and Xiaoshun He of Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China.

This work was supported by grants from the American Cancer Society (122437-RP-12-090-01-COUN), the Cindy Rosencrans Fund for Triple Negative Breast Cancer and the China Scholarship Council.
Orlando, Fla - Researchers at Orlando Health detected evidence of concussions in patients up to 7 days after their injury using a simple blood test, according to a new study published in JAMA Neurology. The discovery could greatly expand the window for diagnosing concussions, especially in patients who experience a delayed onset of symptoms.

"Symptoms of a concussion, or a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury, can be subtle and are often delayed, in many cases by several days," said Linda Papa, MD, MSC, an emergency medicine physician and NIH funded researcher at Orlando Health and lead author of the study. "This could provide doctors with an important tool for simply and accurately diagnosing those patients, particularly children, and making sure they are treated properly."

It's estimated nearly a quarter of a million children are treated in hospitals each year for concussions from playing sports, an average of nearly 700 a day. Almost all concussions in children are diagnosed only by symptoms, which are either observed, like vomiting or loss of balance, or symptoms reported by the child, like blurred vision or headaches. Neither scenario gives doctors and objective way to determine the severity of the injury.

"If patients are not diagnosed properly and treated appropriately, it could lead to long-term problems," said Papa. Untreated, or under-treated traumatic brain injuries like concussions, can lead to prolonged bouts with headaches, dizziness, memory loss and depression.

"This test could take the guesswork out of making a diagnosis by allowing doctors to simply look for a specific biomarker in the blood."

The biomarker Papa analyzed is known as a glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). These proteins are found in glial cells, which surround neurons in the brain, and when an injury occurs, the GFAP are released. What makes them unique is that they pass the blood-brain barrier and enter the bloodstream, making them easy to detect with this particular test.

"Not only were they present in the bloodstream, we were able to detect measurable levels of GFAP up to a week after the injury," said Papa.

Researchers analyzed nearly 600 patients for 3 years. When cross-checked with scans, the blood test was able to detect mild to moderate traumatic brain lesions with up to 97 percent accuracy in patients 18 years and older. The blood test also indicated which patients were in need of life-saving neurosurgery. This suggests that the blood test could be used by clinicians for up to a week after injury to detect brain injury. This is important because many patients with concussion may not seek medical attention for days after injury.

The blood test could also dramatically cut down on the need for computerized tomography (CT) scans. Currently, CT scans are the most precise way to diagnose brain lesions, but are expensive and are associated with radiation exposure. "Physicians really want to minimize the amount of CTs in patients, especially children, who are a lot more sensitive to radiation and the side effects that can come with it. Fortunately, this simple blood test appears to give us nearly the same information as a CT scan."

In fact, in a previous study published last fall, Papa and her team at Orlando Health tested both. They analyzed 152 children within 6 hours of sustaining a concussion, or mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. The results showed that the blood test was able to detect brain injuries with 94 percent accuracy, nearly as effective as state-of-the art CT scans.

"This could ultimately change the way we diagnose concussions, not only in children, but in anyone who sustains a head injury," said Papa. "We have so many diagnostic blood tests for different parts of the body, like the heart, liver and kidneys, but there's never been a reliable blood test to identify trauma in the brain. We think this test could change that," she said.

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About Orlando Health

Orlando Health is a $2.1 billion not-for-profit health care organization and a community-based network of physician practices, hospitals, and outpatient care centers throughout Central Florida. The organization is home to the area's only Level One Trauma Centers for adults and pediatrics and is a statutory teaching hospital system that offers both specialty and community hospitals.

Nearly 3,000 physicians have privileges at Orlando Health, which is also one of the area's largest employers with more than 15,000 employees who serve nearly 2 million Central Florida residents and more than 4,500 international patients annually. Additionally, Orlando Health provides more than $270 million in support of community health needs. More information can be found at http://www.orlandohealth.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. - Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University, University of Minnesota School of Public Health and George Mason University applaud Oregon's new birth control law which allows women age 18 or older to obtain some methods of hormonal contraception directly from pharmacies, without having to visit a prescribing clinician, yet note how the law could go even further to improve access to all forms of contraception, according to a viewpoint article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association today.

"This law is a step forward for contraceptive access. Yet, Oregon women can only obtain two types of hormonal contraception - oral contraceptive pills and hormonal patches - from their pharmacists," says Katy B. Kozhimannil, Ph.D., M.P.A., associate professor at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and article co-author. "For other highly effective forms of birth control such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) or contraceptive implants, women must still make an appointment and come to a clinic to get a prescription from a clinician."

California has followed Oregon's lead, passing a law allowing pharmacist-prescribed contraception in 2015 that will be implemented later this year. The new birth control laws in Oregon and California lower some barriers to contraception access and may reduce costs and unintended pregnancies. But authors contend that instead of providing over-the-counter, easily accessible birth control for women, the need for a pharmacist's prescription still creates barriers.

"Even though this approach provides an excellent way to economize health care costs and free up physicians and resources, there are other ways in which the states can improve access even more," says Y. Tony Yang, Sc.D., L.L.M., M.P.H., associate professor in the Department of Health Administration and Policy at George Mason University and article lead author. "In addition, the age limit requirement of the Oregon law, as well as identification requirements, may discourage vulnerable women from seeking contraceptive care."

The authors note that there are several benefits to women, thanks to the new Oregon law. More access to birth control can decrease the number of unintended pregnancies, and there are positive health side effects for women such as lighter and less painful menstrual periods, reduced risks for ovarian and fallopian tube cancer and pain relief from endometriosis. Studies also show that it's safe for women to obtain hormonal contraception without a clinician's prescription. Costs may also decrease more broadly, as the law allows both pharmacists and physicians to work at their full scope of practice.

"This bill presents an important first step in increasing access to contraception for women in Oregon," says Maria Isabel Rodriguez, M.D., M.P.H., assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at OHSU who was involved in passage and implementation of the Oregon law. "OHSU is leading efforts to research the safety, efficacy and acceptability of this policy to understand how it impacts contraceptive access and unintended pregnancy. By documenting its safety and efficacy, we hope the bill will eventually be expanded to include equal access for adolescents, as well as provision of progestin injectables and implants."

The effectiveness of contraceptive methods must also be considered, the authors note, as well as women's preferences for methods. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has specifically expressed concern that allowing pharmacist-prescribed birth control pills may shift contraception use away from highly effective long-acting reproductive contraception (LARC) such as implants and IUDs, out of convenience.

The authors describe how the Oregon law represents an example of bipartisan support in ensuring access to evidence-based preventive women's health care, but that federal efforts on women's health remain highly partisan and politicized. In the immediate term, state-level efforts may hold the greatest hope for progress on expanding contraceptive access and reducing unintended pregnancy.

Jonathan Snowden, Ph.D., assistant professor with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at OHSU, contributed to the article and notes that as similar laws make their way through state legislatures across the nation, it will be essential to ensure optimal implementation and to strategize how to further increase women's access to contraceptive health services.

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About OHSU

Oregon Health & Science University is a nationally prominent research university and Oregon's only public academic health center. It serves patients throughout the region with a Level 1 trauma center and nationally recognized Doernbecher Children's Hospital. OHSU operates dental, medical, nursing and pharmacy schools that rank high both in research funding and in meeting the university's social mission. OHSU's Knight Cancer Institute helped pioneer personalized medicine through a discovery that identified how to shut down cells that enable cancer to grow without harming healthy ones. OHSU Brain Institute scientists are nationally recognized for discoveries that have led to a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease and new treatments for Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and stroke. OHSU's Casey Eye Institute is a global leader in ophthalmic imaging, and in clinical trials related to eye disease.

About University of Minnesota School of Public Health

For more than 60 years, the University of Minnesota School of Public Health has been among the top accredited schools of public health in the nation. With a mission focused on research, teaching, and service, the school attracts nearly $100 million in sponsored research each year, has more than 100 faculty members and more than 1,300 students, and is engaged in community outreach activities locally, nationally and in dozens of countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.sph.umn.edu.

About George Mason University

George Mason University is Virginia's largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., Mason enrolls more than 33,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. Mason has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity and commitment to accessibility. The College of Health and Human Services offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as minors and undergraduate and graduate certificates in the fields of health care, public health, and social services. For more information, visit chhs.gmu.edu.
CORVALLIS, Ore. - A new analysis of the prehistoric origin of malaria suggests that it evolved in insects at least 100 million years ago, and the first vertebrate hosts of this disease were probably reptiles, which at that time would have included the dinosaurs.

Malaria, a scourge on human society that still kills more than 400,000 people a year, is often thought to be of more modern origin - ranging from 15,000 to 8 million years old, caused primarily by one genus of protozoa, Plasmodium, and spread by anopheline mosquitoes.

But the ancestral forms of this disease used different insect vectors and different malarial strains, and may literally have helped shape animal survival and evolution on Earth, according to George Poinar, Jr., a researcher in the College of Science at Oregon State University.

Poinar suggested in the journal American Entomologist that the origins of this deadly disease, which today can infect animals ranging from humans and other mammals to birds and reptiles, may have begun in an insect such as the biting midge more than 100 million years ago. And in previous work, Poinar and his wife, Roberta, implicated malaria and the evolution of blood-sucking insects as disease vectors that could have played a significant role in the extinction of the dinosaurs.

"Scientists have argued and disagreed for a long time about how malaria evolved and how old it is," Poinar said. "I think the fossil evidence shows that modern malaria vectored by mosquitoes is at least 20 million years old, and earlier forms of the disease, carried by biting midges, are at least 100 million years old and probably much older."

Since the sexual reproduction stage of malaria only occurs in insects, Poinar said in the new study that they must be considered the primary hosts of the disease, not the vertebrate animals that they infect with disease-causing protozoa. And he believes the evidence points toward the Gregarinida as a protozoan parasite group that could have been the progenitors of malaria, since they readily infect the insects that vector malaria today.

Understanding the ancient history of malaria evolution, Poinar said, might offer clues to how its modern-day life cycle works, how it evolved, and what might make possible targets to interrupt its transmission through its most common vector, the Anopheles mosquito.

Understanding the evolution of malaria also takes one on a worldwide journey, according to evidence found in insects preserved in amber. Poinar is an international expert in using plant and animal life forms preserved in this semi-precious stone to help learn more about the biology and ecology of the distant past.

Poinar was the first to discover a type of malaria in a 15-20 million-year-old fossil from the New World, in what is now the Dominican Republic. It was the first fossil record of Plasmodium malaria, one type of which is now the strain that infects and kills humans.

Even further back, malaria may have been one of the diseases that arose, along with the evolution of insects, and had a huge impact on animal evolution. In a 2007 book, "What Bugged the Dinosaurs? Insects, Disease and Death in the Cretaceous," George and Roberta Poinar argued that insects carried diseases that contributed to the widespread extinction of the dinosaurs around the "K-T boundary" about 65 million years ago.

"There were catastrophic events known to have happened around that time, such as asteroid impacts and lava flows," Poinar said. "But it's still clear that dinosaurs declined and slowly became extinct over thousands of years, which suggests other issues must also have been at work. Insects, microbial pathogens and vertebrate diseases were just emerging around that same time, including malaria."

Avian malaria has been implicated in the extinction of many bird species in Hawaii just in recent decades, especially in species with no natural resistance to the disease. Different forms of malaria, which is now known to be an ancient disease, may have been at work many millions of years ago and probably had other implications affecting the outcome of vertebrate survival, Poinar said.

The first human recording of malaria was in China in 2,700 B.C., and some researchers say it may have helped lead to the fall of the Roman Empire. In 2015 there were 214 million cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Immunity does not occur naturally and the search for a vaccine has not yet been achieved.

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Editors Note: The study this story is based on is available online: http://bit.ly/1ojLDqa
COLUMBUS, Ohio--Researchers have identified a single, universal facial expression that is interpreted across many cultures as the embodiment of negative emotion.

The look proved identical for native speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and American Sign Language (ASL).

It consists of a furrowed brow, pressed lips and raised chin, and because we make it when we convey negative sentiments, such as "I do not agree," researchers are calling it the "not face."

The study, published in the journal Cognition, also reveals that our facial muscles contract to form the "not face" at the same frequency at which we speak or sign words in a sentence. That is, we all instinctively make the "not face" as if it were part of our spoken or signed language.

What's more, the researchers discovered that ASL speakers sometimes make the "not face" instead of signing the word "not"--a use of facial expression in ASL that was previously undocumented.

"To our knowledge, this is the first evidence that the facial expressions we use to communicate negative moral judgment have been compounded into a unique, universal part of language," said Aleix Martinez, cognitive scientist and professor of electrical and computer engineering at The Ohio State University.

"Where did language come from? This is a question that the scientific community has grappled with for a very long time," he continued. "This study strongly suggests a link between language and facial expressions of emotion."

Previously, Martinez and his team had used computer algorithms to identify 21 distinct emotional expressions--including complex ones that are combinations of more basic emotions. "Happy" and "disgusted," for instance, can be compounded into "happily disgusted," a face that we might make when watching a gross-out comedy movie or when an adorable baby poops in its diaper.

For this new study, the researchers hypothesized that if a universal "not face" existed, it was likely to be combination of three basic facial expressions that are universally accepted to indicate moral disagreement: anger, disgust and contempt.

Why focus on negative expressions? Charles Darwin believed that the ability to communicate danger or aggression was key to human survival long before we developed the ability to talk, Martinez explained. So the researchers suspected that if any truly universal facial expressions of emotion exist, then the expression for disapproval or disagreement would be the easiest to identify.

To test the hypothesis, they sat 158 Ohio State students in front of a digital camera. The students were filmed and photographed as they had a casual conversation with the person behind the camera in their native language.

The students belonged to four groups, which were chosen to represent a wide variety of grammatical structures. English is a Germanic language, while Spanish is based on Latin; Mandarin Chinese is a modern form of Middle Chinese that was formalized early in the 20th century. Like other forms of sign language, ASL combines hand gestures, head and body movements and facial expressions to communicate individual words or phrases.

The researchers were looking for a facial "grammatical marker," a facial expression that determines the grammatical function of a sentence. For example, in the sentence "I am not going to the party," there is a grammatical marker of negation: "not." Without it, the meaning of the sentence completely changes: "I am going to the party."

If the grammatical marker of negation is universal, the researchers reasoned, then all the study participants would make similar facial expressions when using that grammatical marker, regardless of which language they were speaking or signing. They should all make the same "not face" in conjunction with--or in lieu of--the spoken or signed marker of negation.

The tests went like this: The students either memorized and recited negative sentences that the researchers had written for them ahead of time, or the students were prompted with questions that were likely to illicit disagreement, such as "A study shows that tuition should increase 30 percent. What do you think?"

In all four groups--speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin and ASL--the researchers identified clear grammatical markers of negation. The students' answers translated to statements like "That's not a good idea," and "They should not do that."

The researchers manually tagged images of the students speaking, frame by frame, to show which facial muscles were moving and in which directions. Then computer algorithms searched the thousands of resulting frames to find commonalities among them.

A "not face" emerged: the furrowed brows of "anger" combined with the raised chin of "disgust" and the pressed-together lips of "contempt." Regardless of language--and regardless of whether they were speaking or signing--the participants' faces displayed these same three muscle movements when they communicated negative sentences.

Computer analysis also compared the tempo at which the students' facial muscles moved.

Here's why: Human speech typically varies between three to eight syllables per second--that is, 3-8 Hz, or hertz, a measure of frequency. Researchers believe that the human brain is wired to recognize grammatical constructs that fall within that frequency band as language.

Martinez and his team reasoned that if all the students' facial muscles moved to make the "not face" within that same frequency band, then the face itself likely functions as a universal grammatical marker of language.

In the tests, native English speakers made the "not face" at a frequency of 4.33 Hz, Spanish at 5.23 Hz, and Mandarin speakers at 7.49 Hz. Speakers of ASL made the face at a frequency of 5.48 Hz. All frequencies were within the 3-8 Hz range of spoken communication, which strongly suggests that the facial expression is an actual grammatical marker, Martinez said.

Also, something truly unique emerged from the studies of the ASL-signing students. They utilized the facial expression a different way--as if it were the unique grammatical marker in the signed sentence.

People sometimes signed the word "not." Other times, they just shook their head "no" when they got to the part of the sentence where they would have signed "not." Both are accepted ways to communicate negation in ASL.

But sometimes, speakers didn't make the sign for "not," nor did they shake their head. They just made the "not face," as if the face itself counted explicitly as a marker of negation in the sentence.

This the first time researchers have documented a third way that users of sign language say "not": just by making the face.

"This facial expression not only exists, but in some instances, it is the only marker of negation in a signed sentence," Martinez said. "Sometimes the only way you can tell that the meaning of the sentence is negative is that person made the 'not face' when they signed it."

Manual analysis of the facial expressions was painstaking, Martinez admitted, but now that he and his team have shown that the experiment works, they hope to make the next phase of the project fully automatic, with new algorithms that will extract and analyze facial movements without human help. They're building those algorithms now.

Once they finish, they will take a "big data" approach to further explore the origins of language. First, they'll analyze 1,000 hours of YouTube video of people talking, which corresponds to around 100 million still frames. Ultimately, they want to amass 10,000 hours of data, or 1 billion frames.

They also hope to identify the facial expressions that go along with other grammatical markers, including positive ones.

"That will likely take decades," Martinez said. "Most expressions don't stand out as much as the 'not face.'"

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Co-authors on the study included C. Fabian Benitez-Quiroz, a postdoctoral researcher in electrical and computer engineering, and Ronnie Wilbur, a professor of linguistics at Purdue University.

This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health.
A research group led by Osaka University and the University of Tokyo found that the intracellular protein trafficking is important for higher brain functions such as learning and memory. The research group showed that a molecule, ARHGAP33 regulates synaptic functions and behaviors via intracellular protein trafficking and that the lack of ARHGAP33 causes neuropsychiatric disorder-related impaired higher brain functions.

Takanobu Nakazawa, Specially Appointed Associate Professor at Osaka University, Masanobu Kano, Professor at The University of Tokyo, and Ryota Hashimoto, Associate Professor at Osaka University generated ARHGAP33 knockout (KO) mice to examine the function of ARHGAP33. The research group found impaired spine development and decreased miniature excitatory postsynaptic current frequency and amplitude in ARHGAP33 KO mice. The research group also found that ARHGAP33 KO mice show impaired working memory and prepulse inhibition, both of which related to neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia.

Then, the research group examined the molecular mechanism behind the impaired synaptic functions and behaviors in ARHGAP33 KO mice and found that ARHGAP33 is localized to the Golgi apparatus to regulate intracellular protein trafficking of the Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptor, a neurotrophin receptor, to synaptic sites. Neurotrophins play important roles in the formation and function of synapses. In ARHGAP33 KO mice, TrkB is not sufficiently transported to synaptic sites due to the lack of ARHGAP33, which eventually leads to impaired synaptic functions and behaviors.

Finally, the group found that the human ARHGAP33 is associated with schizophrenia (see Figure).

The molecular pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders is still not well understood, and the development of new antipsychotic drugs is imperative. The group' finding that the impaired intracellular protein trafficking leads to neuropsychiatric disorders-related abnormal higher brain functions has high impact on the fields of psychiatry, basic medical sciences, and pharmaceutical sciences. This study can potentially contribute to the development of new treatment strategies for neuropsychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia.

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CCN5, a matricellular protein, has been found to reverse established cardiac fibrosis in heart failure models, according to a study led by Roger J. Hajjar, MD, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Cardiovascular Research Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Woo Jin Park, PhD, Professor of Life Sciences at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), South Korea. This study was published online today in the Journal of American College of Cardiology (JACC).

Cardiac fibrosis occurs when healthy cardiac cells are replaced with fibrous connective tissue, causing scarring and a stiffer and less compliant cardiac muscle. It is found to be an independent predictor for the progression of heart failure, which accounts for approximately 450,000 deaths per year in the United States. While there currently are no effective cardiac fibrosis therapies available, it is considered a valid target for treatment.

"Our research is the first to demonstrate the ability to reverse cardiac fibrosis in heart failure models by targeting a specific gene," said Dr. Hajjar. "These findings demonstrate that CCN5 may provide a novel platform for the development of targeted anti-cardiac fibrosis therapies, which could benefit many patients with previously untreatable heart failure. At our Cardiovascular Research Center, we are dedicated to making significant strides in developing potential bench-to-bedside treatments for heart failure and other cardiovascular diseases."

Here, Dr. Hajjar and his team, having already established that CCN5 is significantly lower in the myocardium of patients with severe heart failure, examined whether CCN5 can reverse cardiac fibrosis in experimental models. They induced extensive cardiac fibrosis in experimental animal models of heart failure, and then proceeded to transfer CCN5 to the hearts. Eight weeks later, the team examined the cellular and molecular effects.

The results revealed that CCN5 reversed cardiac fibrosis in the models. Researchers used trichrome staining and analysis of myofibroblast contents before and after CCN5 gene transfer to clearly show the reversal. Collectively, these data demonstrate that CCN5 could potentially be used for the development of new anti-cardiac fibrosis therapies.

"Since CCN5 is a secreted protein, we may be able to deliver the CCN5 protein itself rather than the CCN5 gene in the form of recombinant virus or stem cells that are engineered to express CCN5. The efficacy of these alternative approaches has yet to be tested, but they certainly deserve a serious consideration," said Dr. Park.

The therapeutic efficacy of CCN5 continues to be investigated in pre-clinical models of heart failure with extensive fibrosis.

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This research was funded by grants from the NIH and the Korean Government.

About the Mount Sinai Health System

The Mount Sinai Health System is an integrated health system committed to providing distinguished care, conducting transformative research, and advancing biomedical education. Structured around seven hospital campuses and a single medical school, the Health System has an extensive ambulatory network and a range of inpatient and outpatient services--from community-based facilities to tertiary and quaternary care.

The System includes approximately 6,100 primary and specialty care physicians; 12 joint-venture ambulatory surgery centers; more than 140 ambulatory practices throughout the five boroughs of New York City, Westchester, Long Island, and Florida; and 31 affiliated community health centers. Physicians are affiliated with the renowned Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which is ranked among the highest in the nation in National Institutes of Health funding per investigator. The Mount Sinai Hospital is ranked as one of the nation's top 10 hospitals in Geriatrics, Cardiology/Heart Surgery, and Gastroenterology, and is in the top 25 in five other specialties in the 2015-2016 "Best Hospitals" issue of U.S. News & World Report. Mount Sinai's Kravis Children's Hospital also is ranked in seven out of ten pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai is ranked 11th nationally for Ophthalmology, while Mount Sinai Beth Israel is ranked regionally.

For more information, visit http://www.mountsinai.org or find Mount Sinai on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Irvine, Calif., March 28, 2016 -- A University of California, Irvine scientific team led by infectious diseases researchers Philip Felgner and Aaron Esser-Kahn has received $8 million from the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Threat Reduction Agency to help develop a new vaccine for Q fever.

Caused by the Coxiella burnetii bacterium, Q fever is a highly infectious agent common among livestock. It has a history of being aerosolized for use in biological warfare and is considered a potential bioterrorism weapon.

Q fever is also a public health threat; a 2007-10 outbreak in the Netherlands affected thousands of people. Symptoms include high fever, nausea, severe headache and abdominal pain. It is rarely fatal.

"The current vaccine for Q fever is effective but has severe side effects that limit its widespread use," said Felgner, an adjunct professor of medicine at UCI. "It's a high priority that this vaccine be administered to members of the armed forces. Consequently, the military is interested in developing an alternative protective vaccine that's safer and does not cause adverse reactions."

Felgner will use an approach he pioneered at UCI to create whole proteome microarrays to discover immune response-activating antigen proteins that may be effective as a vaccine. Additionally, he'll collaborate with Esser-Kahn, assistant professor of chemistry, whose group will develop synthetic agents that can boost and control the immune response to these proteins.

Felgner said this dual method may be applicable in creating more vaccines important to the military and general public health, adding that this is an opportunity for the Department of Defense to test these methods for their potential use against other infectious diseases.

After identifying the target proteins, Felgner will work with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick in Maryland on next-stage animal studies of a candidate vaccine.

The project is a successful outgrowth of the Pacific Southwest Regional Center of Excellence, one of only 11 National Institutes of Health-funded research sites dedicated to countering threats from bioterrorism agents and emerging infectious diseases. UCI received $85 million for this effort, which was led by Dr. Alan Barbour, professor of microbiology & molecular genetics. The federal program ended in 2015.

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About the University of California, Irvine: Currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. The campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UCI has more than 30,000 students and offers 192 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $4.8 billion annually to the local economy. For more on UCI, visit http://www.uci.edu.

Media access: Radio programs/stations may, for a fee, use an on-campus ISDN line to interview UC Irvine faculty and experts, subject to availability and university approval. For more UC Irvine news, visit news.uci.edu. Additional resources for journalists may be found at communications.uci.edu/for-journalists.
The Cassini spacecraft has observed geysers erupting on Saturn's moon Enceladus since 2005, but the process that drives and sustains these eruptions has remained a mystery. Now, scientists at the University of Chicago and Princeton University have pinpointed a mechanism by which cyclical tidal stresses exerted by Saturn can drive Enceladus's long-lived eruptions.

"On Earth, eruptions don't tend to continue for long," said Edwin Kite, assistant professor of geophysical sciences at UChicago. "When you do see eruptions that continue for a long time, they'll be localized into a few pipelike eruptions with wide spacing between them."

But Enceladus, which probably has an ocean underlying its icy surface, has somehow managed to sprout multiple fissures along its south pole. These "tiger stripes" have been erupting vapor and tiny frost particles continuously along their entire length for decades and probably much longer.

"It's a puzzle to explain why the fissure system doesn't clog up with its own frost," Kite said. "And it's a puzzle to explain why the energy removed from the water table by evaporative cooling doesn't just ice things over."

What's needed is an energy source to balance the evaporative cooling. "We think the energy source is a new mechanism of tidal dissipation that had not been previously considered," Kite said. Kite and Princeton's Allan Rubin present their findings the week of March 28 in the Early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"I was very happy to see this new work by Kite and Rubin that brings to the fore a process that had escaped notice: the pumping of water in and out of the deep fractures of the south polar ice shell by tidal action," said Carolyn Porco, head of Cassini's imaging science team and a leading scientist in the study of Enceladus.

Astrobiology experiment

Enceladus, which Kite calls "an opportunity for the best astrobiology experiment in the solar system," serves as a leading candidate for extraterrestrial life. Cassini data have strongly indicated that the cryovolcanic plumes of Enceladus probably originate in a biomolecule-friendly oceanic environment.

Cryovolcanism may also have shaped the surface of Europa, one of Jupiter's moons. "Europa's surface has many similarities to Enceladus's surface, and so I hope that this model will be useful for Europa as well," Kite said.

One of the problems that attracted Kite and Rubin was the anomalous tidal response of the Enceladus eruptions. The eruptions reach their peak approximately five hours later than expected, even when taking into account the 40 minutes needed for the erupted particles to reach the altitude at which Cassini can detect them. Other scientists had previously suggested reasons for the lag, which included a delay in the eruptions as well as a squishy, slowly responding ice shell.

"The new proposal is really a way to get a delay in the eruptions. You really don't need to propose any terribly squishy ice shell to do it," Porco said.

Kite and Rubin also wanted to know why Enceladus maintains a base level of cryovolcanic activity, even when at that point in its orbit where the fissures should clamp shut and curtail the eruptions. Other key questions: Why does the volcanic system generate five gigawatts of power instead of a lot more or a lot less? Why don't the eruptions frost over or freeze over?

The Kite-Rubin model of the Enceladus plumbing system seems to answer them all. Their model consists of a series of nearly parallel, vertical slots that reach from the surface down to the water below. They applied Saturn's tidal stresses to their model on a desktop computer and watched what happened.

The tricky part

"The only tricky part quantitatively is calculating the elastic interactions between the different slots and the varying water level within each slot as a response to the tidal stress," Kite explained. The width of the slots affects how quickly they can respond to the tidal forces. With wide slots, the eruptions respond quickly to tidal forcing. With narrow slots, the eruptions occur eight hours after the tidal forces reach their peak.

"In between there's a sweet spot," Kite said, where tidal forces turn water motion into heat, generating enough power to produce eruptions that match the observed five-hour lag. Porco called it "the best thing in my mind about this new work."

Tidal pumping heats the water and the ice shell via turbulence. Kite and Rubin have proposed that new Cassini data can test this idea by revealing whether or not the ice shell in the south polar region is warm.

"If the new mechanism is a major contributor to the heat coming from the fractures, then the south polar ice in between the fractures may in fact be cold," Porco said. "The jury is still on out on this until the results from the final Enceladus flybys of last year are fully analyzed."

Kite and UChicago geophysical sciences Prof. Douglas MacAyeal are interested in studying an Earth analogue to the Enceladus geysers. A crack has formed across a section of the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica, partially breaking it away from the continent.

"In that crack you have strong tidal flow, so it would be interesting to see what a real ice sheet does in an environment that's analogous in terms of the amplitude of the stresses and the temperatures of the ice," Kite said.

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Tardigrades, also known as moss piglets or water bears, are eight-legged microscopic animals that have long fascinated scientists for their ability to survive extremes of temperature, pressure, lack of oxygen, and even radiation exposure.

Now, a study has found that, contrary to a previous controversial proposal, tardigrades have not acquired a significant proportion of their DNA from other organisms.

Instead, new analysis from the University of Edinburgh shows that nearly all of what was proposed to be foreign DNA was simply bacterial contamination.

Controversy had been prompted by a November 2015 study suggesting that one-sixth - some 17 per cent - of the DNA of freshwater tardigrades could be traced to transfers from bacteria.

The scientific world was abuzz with speculation following this suggestion that tardigrades had the ability to pick up and reuse DNA from other species.

Soon after, the Edinburgh team used DNA sequence data from the same species and found that almost all of the proposed foreign DNA was in fact contamination.

In their latest study, the same team conducted careful analysis of both sets of data using new computational tools. Their findings suggests that less than 1 per cent of tardigrades' genes are likely to have been borrowed from other species. This number is unsurprising - even humans have a few borrowed genes.

Their study is published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Professor Mark Blaxter, of the University of Edinburgh's School of Biological Sciences, who led the study, said: "What would in decades past have taken many months to sort out became the focus of experts around the world and has been swiftly resolved. We hope this paper will finally correct the scientific record. Tardigrades are amazing organisms, but these suggestions about their DNA were a step too far, even for their eight legs."

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Chemists have identified the complex chemical structure of the protein that stacks together to form fibrils in the brains of Parkinson's disease patients. Armed with this knowledge, researchers can identify specific targets for diagnosis and treatment.

University of Illinois chemists, collaborating with peers at the University of Pennsylvania, Vanderbilt University and Queen Mary University of London, detailed their mapped structure of the protein in the journal Nature Structural and Molecular Biology.

In Parkinson's, the protein alpha-synuclein forms long fibrils that disrupt brain activity. This is similar to the beta-amyloid fibrils that form in Alzheimer's disease patients. However, while the beta-amyloid structure is known, the alpha-synuclein structure has eluded researchers as a result of its complexity, its insolubility and the difficulty of characterizing one protein within a fibril.

"This is the first structure of the full-length fibril protein, which is now well established to be important for the pathology of Parkinson's disease," said study leader Chad Rienstra, a University of Illinois chemistry professor. "Knowing that structure will open up many new areas of investigation for diagnosing and treating Parkinson's disease."

The Illinois group used a special type of molecular imaging called magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance to measure the placement of atoms in six different samples of alpha-synuclein. In each set of samples, they looked at different sets of atoms, then used advanced computational power to put them all together like pieces of a giant jigsaw puzzle.

"We had to find patterns in the data and systematically test all the possibilities for how the protein would fit together," Rienstra said. "It's like when you solve a really complex puzzle, you know you have it right at the end because all the pieces fit together. That's what we got with this structure."

See a video on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZjXeAfqGG4.

The group experimentally verified the structure with collaborators by producing the protein in the lab and checking it with various imaging methods to see if it matched the fibrils found in Parkinson's patients. They also verified it biologically by testing it in cell cultures and seeing that it indeed behaved like the protein found in patients.

"These structures are crucial for understanding the mechanisms for how Parkinson's disease works," said Marcus Tuttle, first author of the paper, who worked on the project as a graduate researcher in Rienstra's group and is now a postdoctoral fellow at Yale University. "Amyloid diseases are incredibly complex systems. What structural features drive pathology? That's a super interesting question, but until now there's been no structure. Now there's a whole avenue where we can start to explore the basic mechanism of how the protein works."

Rienstra's group is working with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to identify possible diagnostic agents that could target certain spots on the alpha-synuclein protein and would "light up" in a brain scan, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis.

"We think that the structure that we resolved of alpha-synuclein fibrils will be really significant in the immediate future and has use for diagnosing Parkinson's in patients before they're symptomatic," Rienstra said. "Once people start having symptoms, whether of Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, in many ways it's a little too late to be effective with therapy. But if you catch it early, I think there's a lot of promise for therapies that are being developed. Those are all relying upon the structures that we're solving."

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The National Institutes of Health supported this work.

Editor's notes: To reach Chad Rienstra, call (217) 244-4655; email rienstra@illinois.edu.

The paper "Solid-state NMR structure of a pathogenic fibril of full-length human -synuclein" is available online or from the News Bureau.
MIAMI--An international research team calls for a targeted research strategy to better understand the impact multiple stressors will have on coral reef in the future due to global climate change. The scientists published their new approach to coral reef research in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science.

The researchers conducted a literature review to evaluate recent research on the ecological health impacts of corals when exposed to more than one stressor, such as increased ocean temperature and increased ocean acidification.

More than just bleaching and a loss of calcium shells, changes in temperature and ocean acidification - driven by increased CO2 in the atmosphere - can cause corals to grow more slowly and can inhibit reproduction, according to the researchers. The researchers suggest that when stresses occur simultaneously, they have dangerous effects on corals that are not anticipated by studies that only evaluate a single stressor to corals.

"The evidence is stacking up that the interaction of multiple stressors and ecological complexity may mean that negative effects on coral reefs will happen sooner, and be more severe than previously thought," said Chris Langdon, a professor of marine biology and ecology and co-author of the study. "In order to answer the challenge to produce more accurate predictions, coral reef scientists will need to scale-up their studies to better encompass the complexity of natural systems."

The researchers call for a new focus on coral reef research that combines traditional laboratory experiments with more realistic field-based experiments that attempt to mimic the types of changes in multiple stressors that are expected to impact corals in the future.

"Because the species that make up coral reefs differ from region to region, we need a global strategy for choosing where to locate these larger, field-based experiments, called mesocosm studies, to better inform adaptation and environmental policy that are regionally appropriate," the researchers said.

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The paper, titled "Multiple Stressors and Ecological Complexity Require A New Approach to Coral Reef Research," was published in the March 25 issue of the journal Frontiers in Marine Science. The study's authors include: UM Rosenstiel School Professor Chris Langdon; Linwood H. Pendleton of Duke University; Ove Hoegh-Guldberg of the University of Queensland in Australia; and Adrien Comte of the University of Brest in France. The study was supported by a grant from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation. Publication: http://bit.ly/1UNDUP3

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.
Companies appear to structure compensation contracts and incentive pay based on a manager's personality traits, and not just firm characteristics, according to a new study from The University of Texas at Dallas.

Dr. Vikram Nanda, O.P. Jindal Distinguished Chair of finance and managerial economics in the Naveen Jindal School of Management, said there are divergent views on the use of options and stock in CEO compensation contracts: do they appropriately incentivize managers and enhance shareholder value, and if so, why is there much variation in their use across firms?

The study, published recently in the Journal of Financial Economics, found that companies offer incentive-heavy compensation contracts to overconfident CEOs to "exploit" their positively biased views of the firms' prospects. The notion is that if managers and shareholders -- represented by the board -- have a different take on a firm's prospects and CEO talent, there will be greater use of incentive pay that the managers value highly, but the board regards as less costly.

"When you think about incentive contracts, you don't usually think about the personality of the individual being a factor in the contract," Nanda said. "You don't usually hear about how two profit-sharing agreements are going to look different because the personalities and the beliefs of the individuals are coming into play."

Using the compensation data of CEOs between 1992 and 2011, the researchers identified managers who were exhibiting behavior that was overconfident compared to other CEOs. They conducted empirical tests to explore the relationship between CEO overconfidence and incentive compensation.

The study shows that incentive compensation for CEOs is driven by individual traits and not merely firm-level characteristics.

"Are CEOs being given these contracts because they are serving an incentive function -- incentive contracts are supposed to say you'll get paid more if you do the right thing or work really hard -- or are they just being paid more because these CEOs value these contracts more?" Nanda said. "If a CEO believes the firm is going to do very well, maybe he will take a lot of his compensation in options and stock."

The researchers found that:

CEO overconfidence increases the proportions of total compensation that comes from both option grants and equity grants, compared to other executives.

Overconfident CEOs receive even greater option and equity intensity in innovative and risky firms.

Overconfident non-CEO executives also receive higher levels of options and equity.

"Incentive contracts are sometimes designed to be sensitive to these individual preferences," Nanda said. "Even at the same firm, I wouldn't necessarily give one manager the same contract that I would give to another manager who has a different belief about what's going on in the firm. Basically, one size doesn't fit all."

Dr. Mark Humphery-Jenner of UNSW Australia, Dr. Ling Lei Lisic of George Mason University, and Dr. Sabatino Dino Silveri of the University of Memphis are co-authors of the paper.

Defining an Overconfident CEO

Overconfident CEOs are prone to overestimate returns to investments and underestimate risks, Dr. Vikram Nanda said. They may use extremely positive words in the media or tend to invest more than a typical manager in the industry.

"It's good to have your enthusiasm and your confidence," Nanda said. "The question is, if it's too strong, is there something the firm can do -- such as giving you incentive contracts, or monitoring your behavior, or constricting what you can do -- to bring out the good side and constrain the bad aspects?"

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It's a well worn media trope. 21st century millennials are leading the way to a green transportation future, moving to cities, riding public transit, biking and walking - and often delaying car purchases indefinitely, to Detroit's growing dismay.

The reality is more complex, says a new study by University of Vermont researchers recently published in the Annals of the Association of American Geographers. Since the public discussion is mostly about the driving habits of post-college age 20-somethings who have moved to cities, the researchers decided to trace backward to see if there is evidence of high school age teens changing their behavior.

Their answer: only in part, suggesting the larger narrative may be overstated.

Infrastructure and land use patterns in the community play a major role in teens' decisions about whether to begin driving when they're of age, said Meghan Cope, professor of geography at the University of Vermont and co-author of the study.

"If we're concerned with trying to make non-car transportation viable for teens - a habit they could carry over into later years - then land-use patterns, density and the transportation network of walkable areas, bike paths and public transportation really matter," Cope said. Meeting teen mobility needs would also benefit other groups who can't depend on driving to meet their needs, she said.

The study compared teen behavior in two Vermont school districts. One was semi-urban with a variety of public transportation options and teen destinations like a mall and the high school located nearby. The other was more rural and suburban with little public transportation, and destinations - from the high school to friends' houses to shops - accessible only by car or school bus. Both districts are suburbs of Burlington.

In the more rural suburban district, teens obtained their driver's license on average within a month of their 16th birthday. In the more urban community, teens delayed several months before getting their license.

The study also looked at the way the Internet and cell phones influenced teen mobility. The authors found that technology influences travel behaviors by helping teens arrange rides and meeting up, but did not replace meeting in person.

Both communities the researchers studied were affluent, Cope said. Many families surveyed had the resources to purchase a car for their teen or make an existing vehicle available to them.

Even among educated, wealthy families with influence and extensive social networks, teens from the more rural suburbs encountered obstacles to their mobility, Cope said.

"No matter what their circumstances, they bumped up against a disconnected transportation infrastructure before they had a car," Cope said.

Transportation policy isn't only of academic interest, Cope said.

"There's a social justice dimension," she said. "Land-use decisions can marginalize whole groups of people. In car-oriented suburbs, teens whose families have fewer resources or challenging work schedules, elderly people, the disabled, the poor, and those who choose not to drive are left out."

To bring about a future that truly isn't reliant on the automobile, Cope recommended the following:

* Create interconnected, walkable communities. "Connectivity is the key word," she said; * Put zoning practices in place that encourage mixed-use development and higher residential densities; * Integrate both public transit and biking/pedestrian infrastructure into neighborhoods and commercial developments.

The study used a mix of research methods to obtain its results. Both parents and teens filled out an extensive questionnaire. The researchers also conducted a focus group with teens from both schools and held a participatory mapping session with them featuring an aerial photo of their towns; teens were asked to place stickers on places that were important them, while talking with the researchers about how they traveled there. The researchers also employed a research technique they invented, asking teens to verbally share selected text messages to give a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between texting and mobility, and to illuminate other aspects of their transportation choices.

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The study's other co-author was Brian H.Y. Lee, who held joint appointments in the University of Vermont's College of Engineering and Mathematical Science and Transportation Research Center at the time of the study and is now a senior planner at the Seattle Regional Planning Commission.
DALLAS - March 28, 2016 - UT Southwestern Medical Center researchers have discovered a mutation that causes a rare systemic disorder known as X-linked reticulate pigmentary disorder (XLPDR) and, significantly, the unexpected cellular mechanism by which the mutation causes the disease.

For Tom Vansyckle, who had sat with his sons in so many hospital rooms and read every word he could find about XLPDR for two decades, it was an emotional moment when Dr. Andrew Zinn, Dean of the UT Southwestern Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, told him that the genetic mutation linked to his sons' disorder had been found. The research appears today in Nature Immunology.

"It felt like a dream," Mr. Vansyckle said. "I called Dr. Zinn the next morning and asked him, 'Is this really real or did I dream that this happened?' "

Symptoms of XLPDR, a hereditary X chromosome-linked disease, include blotchy skin pigmentation, unusual facial features, inability to sweat, and recurrent bacterial lung infections. The condition also causes cornea scarring, leading to blindness in many patients. Currently, XLPDR patients are treated for their lung infections in the same manner as cystic fibrosis patients, with hospitalizations and weeklong courses of antibiotics. For vision loss, corneal transplantation has been tried in a few cases, with disappointing results.

Although the study's findings do not translate into an immediate cure for patients such as the Vansyckles, they hold promise for development of therapies targeted at the now-known mutation that causes XLPDR: the POLA1 gene, a core enzyme involved in DNA replication. This gene long has been known to code for an essential component in an enzyme involved in DNA replication, DNA polymerase alpha, but the research revealed a surprising second role for the gene.

Dr. Zinn, also a Professor of Internal Medicine and in the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development, began working to identify the genetic mutation that causes this disease after he met the Vansyckle family of Waco. Although Dr. Zinn narrowed the genetic location of the mutation, for years he was unable to pinpoint it precisely through standard techniques. Whole-genome sequencing brought the answer. The mutation, as it turned out, was not in an exon - a part of a gene that codes for proteins - but rather in a non-coding intron section of DNA.

"Genes are like beads on a string, with the beads representing exons that are spliced together after the intervening pieces of string, or introns, are clipped out. Since the majority of known disease-causing mutations affect proteins, geneticists normally are focused on exons," explained Dr. Zinn. "This intron mutation results in aberrant splicing, decreasing POLA1 protein expression."

In the next phase of the study, researchers attempted to understand how the genetic mutation led to the phenotype of this disease, including the immunodeficiency and spontaneous inflammation of various organs that occur. Dr. Ezra Burstein, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Molecular Biology, and Dr. Petro Starokadomskyy, research scientist, made a connection between POLA1 deficiency and an immune reaction in the cytoplasm, or fluid portion, of cells.

"When you examine cells of XLPDR patients under the microscope, they look like they are constantly responding to a viral infection. But in reality, they are not infected with anything," Dr. Starokadomskyy said. "Interestingly, these patients instead get repeated bacterial and fungal infections, particularly in the lungs. It's like their bodies are exhausted by constant antiviral alarms, and so they cannot respond to real threats."

The researchers pinpointed the cause of this unusual state as constant activation of the interferon pathway - the body's principal cellular system for fighting viral infections.

"It's been known for 70 years that POLA1 plays a role in the copying of DNA during cell division in the nucleus of the cell, but now we have identified a second function for POLA1 in calming immune responses that take place in the cytoplasm of the cell," Dr. Burstein said.

"These patients are both inflamed and immunodeficient at the same time. They have a signature of autoinflammation that is very similar to diseases that involve mutations in enzymes of nucleic acid metabolism. Our research revealed a role for this replicative polymerase as a modulator of interferon activation through the generation of RNA:DNA hybrids in the cytoplasm of cells," Dr. Burstein said.

The main pathways to activate interferon production begin with the recognition of foreign nucleic acids, a process by which cells typically detect viruses. The research demonstrates that the generation of cytosolic RNA:DNA hybrids modulates the sensitivity of cellular sensors. When the levels of cytosolic RNA:DNA are reduced, as is the case in XLPDR, cells get spontaneously activated, setting in motion the first steps that lead to the disease.

Worldwide, only 14 families are known to have XLPDR, though there could be others that have been misdiagnosed, as the Vansyckle brothers initially were, with cystic fibrosis. For years, UT Southwestern researchers have been gathering information about families with XLPDR from across the globe.

Tyler Vansyckle, 25, who is a video game enthusiast, and his artsy brother Spencer Vansyckle, 20, who writes poetry, were both born with the disease, though it was some time before their condition was diagnosed. Because they suffered so many lung infections, doctors thought the boys had cystic fibrosis until a dermatologist, noting their unusual skin coloration, researched their "reverse freckles" and correctly diagnosed XLPDR. It was then that Dr. Zinn began working with the Vansyckle family, seeking the genetic cause of this exceedingly rare disease.

Beyond finally revealing a disease cause, UT Southwestern's research suggests a potential treatment route. "Finding a way to block or slow the interferon pathway could someday help these patients," Dr. Burstein said.

Knowing that medical understanding about his sons' condition is advancing - and even just knowing that there are others in the world with this disease - is comforting for Tom Vansyckle. "For years, we thought we were the only ones in the world," he said.

Additionally, pinpointing the mutation means that girls in families with XLPDR can be screened to see if they are carriers.

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Other UT Southwestern researchers who contributed to this study were Terry Gemelli, research scientist in the Eugene McDermott Center for Human Growth and Development; Dr. Jonathan Rios, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Orthopaedic Surgery, and in the McDermott Center; Dr. Chao Xing, Associate Professor of Clinical Science and in the McDermott Center; Dr. Richard Wang, Assistant Professor of Dermatology; Dr. Haiying Li, Instructor in Internal Medicine; and Vladislav Pokatayev, graduate student researcher in Internal Medicine.

Additional UTSW researchers included Dr. Igor Dozmorov, Associate Professor of Immunology; Dr. Shaheen Khan, Instructor in Immunology; Dr. Naoteru Miyata, postdoctoral researcher in Internal Medicine; Dr. Prithvi Raj, Instructor in Immunology; Dr. Ward Wakeland, Professor and Chair of Immunology; Dr. Nan Yan, Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine and Microbiology; and Dr. Maria Teresa de la Morena, Professor of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine.

Dr. Zinn holds the Rolf Haberecht and Ute Schwarz Haberect Deanship of the UT Southwestern Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; Dr. Wakeland holds the Edwin L. Cox Distinguished Chair in Immunology and Genetics; and Dr. Yan is a Rita C. and William P. Clements, Jr. Scholar in Medical Research.

Also contributing to the study were researchers at Ramon y Cajal University Hospital and Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau in Spain; Beijing Children's Hospital and Peking University in China; Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel; University of Milan in Italy, Hospital for Sick Children in Canada; Mother and Child Health Care Institute and the University of Belgrade in Serbia; and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in Rockville, Maryland.

This research was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health, the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Children's Medical Center Foundation, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

About UT Southwestern Medical Center

UT Southwestern, one of the premier academic medical centers in the nation, integrates UT Southwestern, one of the premier academic medical centers in the nation, integrates pioneering biomedical research with exceptional clinical care and education. The institution's faculty includes many distinguished members, including six who have been awarded Nobel Prizes since 1985. The faculty of almost 2,800 is responsible for groundbreaking medical advances and is committed to translating science-driven research quickly to new clinical treatments. UT Southwestern physicians provide medical care in about 80 specialties to more than 100,000 hospitalized patients and oversee approximately 2.2 million outpatient visits a year.

This news release is available on our home page at http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/home/news/index.html

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New research shows 77 percent of world's fisheries can be healthy in a decade

Groundbreaking research being published in the March 29th issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows the majority of the world's fisheries could be recovered in just 10 years, and that global fish populations could double by 2050 with better fishing practices compared to business as usual. The peer-reviewed study is authored by researchers from the University of California Santa Barbara, The University of Washington and Environmental Defense Fund.

The recovery of struggling fisheries would bring a significant increase in the amount of seafood that could be caught over time to feed the world's growing population. Three billion people worldwide rely on seafood as a key source of protein and about 260 million people work in fishery-related sectors, many of whom live in developing countries.

If reforms were implemented today, the percentage of fisheries in the world that are considered biologically healthy would grow from around 47 percent today to 77 percent within just 10 years.

In addition to recovering fish populations and improved food security, the projected impact of these reforms would mean a 204 percent increase in profits for fishermen by 2050.

These powerful conclusions emerged from an analysis using a massive database of 4,713 fisheries that represent 78 percent of the ocean's catch. That's far more precise and granular than previous analyses.

The results suggest that institutional reforms, like the implementation of secure fishing rights would yield the most significant results for the world's fisheries. Fishing rights, which end the desperate race for fish by asking fishermen and women to adhere to strict, science-based catch limits in exchange for a right to a share of the catch or to a traditional fishing area, are already being used to great effect in places like Australia, Belize, Chile, Denmark, Namibia, and the United States.

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The study and interviews are available on an embargoed basis. Please contact Valerie Holford, consultant to Environmental Defense Fund, for details. +301-926-1298 or valerieholford@yahoo.com

Co-Authors on the paper available for interviews include:

Chris Costello, The University of California at Santa Barbara

Amanda Leland, Environmental Defense Fund

Ray Hilborn, The University of Washington

Steve Gaines, The University of California at Santa Barbara

Trevor Branch, The University of Washington

Douglas Rader, Environmental Defense Fund

Mike Melnychuk, The University of Washington
Key Findings:

People consistently perceive scientists to possess qualities that are culturally linked to stereotypes about men. Specific stereotypes about men (e.g. they are risk-taking) overlap with stereotypes about scientists.

Stereotypes about women (e.g. they are "communal") are not only still prevalent but work against perceptions that women can be successful scientists. This may lead to obstacles to women in the STEM disciplines.

Only students at all-women colleges (as compared to both women and men at co-ed institutions) saw a meaningful similarity between how women and scientists are perceived.

Results suggests attending a women's college, and the exposure to prominent female scientists that may come with it, can lead to women being more likely to see their gender as suited for careers in science.

The greater number of women working in a particular field, the greater a perceived similarity between women and scientists existed. The number of men in a particular field, however, does not change perceived similarities.

As the science community reels from ongoing revelations of sexual harassment and discrimination, a new study in Psychology of Women Quarterly, by Wellesley College researcher Linda Carli, offers important clues as to how women scientists are perceived and how stereotypes might lead to prejudicial treatment. The paper, entitled "Stereotypes About Gender and Science: Women ? Science," shows that despite significant progress made, women are still thought to lack the qualities needed to be successful scientists, and the findings suggest this may contribute to discrimination and prejudice against women in those fields. Carli is a senior lecturer in psychology at Wellesley and is an authority on gender discrimination and the challenges faced by professional women. The article is currently online and is forthcoming in print.

Carli's research adds critical background data to the on-going conversation jumpstarted by women scientists disclosing years of abuse and discrimination. For example, one professor recently published a New York Times op-ed about her own experience, suggesting the reality of discrimination and even abuse could explain why there are fewer women in STEM fields.

Carli's research specifically compared how men, women, and scientists (as categories of people) are perceived by both genders. Little research has been done on the topic of how scientists as a group are perceived, and even though much work has looked at gender stereotypes and stereotypes for leaders, for example, there previously had been no study that considered the overlap of gender stereotypes with stereotypes about scientists, Carli said. "Common cultural stereotypes about women, men, and scientists lead people to see women as incompatible with science," said Carli. "Men are especially prone to this bias, but everyone shares it. This may result in prejudice (a dislike of female scientists compared with men) and discrimination against them."

The study also used students at an all-women's college (Wellesley, where Carli teaches) to gauge the effect this environment might have on stereotypes. Approaching the research in this way led Carli to uncover a surprising and telling contrast between women in this setting and women and men at coeducational institutions. Only the women from her study who attended a single-sex college saw a meaningful similarity between women and scientists. Says Carli, "Women at coed institutions saw very little similarity and men saw none at all. It may be that women attending women's colleges have greater exposure to female scientists, and this may shift their stereotypes about successful scientists to be more like women." She adds, "Research on leadership suggests that media exposure to female leaders, such as Madeleine Albright, Angela Merkel, and Janet Yellen, increases peoples' perception that women can be good leaders. But people have little exposure to prominent female scientists. Going to a women's college may correct that problem."

Support for this view comes from Wellesley itself. Wellesley College alumnae are awarded more science and engineering doctorates than female graduates of any other liberal arts college in the nation. (Alumnae in STEM fields include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology researcher, Nergis Mavalvala, who was part of the team that recently discovered proof of gravitational waves.) Among Wellesley's top ten majors are neuroscience, biological sciences, computer science, and math.

A closer look at Carli's research shows that scientists are perceived as more "agentic" (e.g. risk-taking and competitive), and that these characteristics have the greatest overlap with how men are also perceived. Women are thought to be more "communal," associated with qualities like helpfulness and kindness. She writes in the paper, "[T]he overall image of successful scientists appears to be one of exaggerated masculinity, but with fewer of the more negative qualities associated with masculinity."

Her research was comprised of two different studies. In the first, participants were given a set of descriptive terms and asked to use them to describe the characteristics of a randomly assigned group ('adult man', or 'adult woman', or 'successful scientist') and to place each term on a five-point scale, with one [1] representing "not characteristic." The aim was to examine the overlap of stereotypes about women and men and to see if the gender of the participant had an effect on how they viewed these groups.

The second study looked at particular fields in science (e.g. biology) and examined if the number of women actually working in that discipline had an effect on how women were perceived. Like the first study, these participants were asked to describe the characteristics of a randomly assigned group; instead of 'successful scientist', the category was, for example, 'successful biologist'.

While generally women also perceive men and scientists to share more similarities than they feel their own gender shares with scientists, Carli's study did find that women were "more inclined to attribute to their own gender a somewhat greater degree of agency, and to perceive a somewhat greater similarity of women to successful scientist [than men did]." She also found that the greater number of women working in a particular field, the greater a perceived similarity between women and scientists existed. However, the number of men in a particular field does not change perceived similarities. She wrote, "[G]iven that people discriminate against women even in gender-neutral fields..., it may be that women have to predominate in a field before people perceive them as having the same role congruity [similarity between their gender and their field's perceived characteristics] as men."

Carli argues the implications of her study are clear. As she wrote in the paper, "These data suggest that the challenges women face as potential scientists may go beyond the perception that science is a poor match with women's communal goals or that more scientists are men [and] not women." Her findings are also a call to action. We must be "more aware of these potential biases and attempt to compensate for them in evaluating women and girls in STEM," she argues in the article.

###

About Linda Carli

Linda Carli is the author (with Alice Eagly) of Through the Labyrinth: The Truth About How Women Become Leaders, published in conjunction with the Center for Public Leadership of the Kennedy School of Government. The book received the 2008 Distinguished Publication Award from the Association of Women in Psychology; an article based on the book received a McKinsey Award as the second most significant article published in the Harvard Business Review in 2007. In 2001, she co-edited (with Eagly) a volume of the Journal of Social Issues that focused on women leaders. Her research focuses on the effects of gender on women's leadership, group interaction, communication, influence, and reactions to adversity. She has taught at Wellesley since 1991.

About Wellesley College

Since 1875, Wellesley College has been a leader in providing an excellent liberal arts education for women who will make a difference in the world. Its 500-acre campus near Boston is home to some 2,400 undergraduate students from all 50 states and 75 countries.

Press Contact:

Sofiya Cabalquinto, Wellesley College, 917-691-7558, scabalqu@wellesley.edu

Chris Hennessy, Wellesley College, 781-283-3201, chenness@wellesley.edu
Editors note: Evolution News is delighted to welcome Brendan Dixon as a new contributor. He is a software architect who joined Biologic Institute in 2006 to design and build the software for the Stylus project. He has worked for Microsoft, IBM, and Apple.

An article in the print edition of New Scientist is titled provocatively: Intelligent design without a designer. It acknowledges evolutions incredible prowess as a designer, and asks:

For centuries, the apparent perfection of [natures] designs was taken as self-evident proof of divine creation. Charles Darwin himself expressed amazement that natural selection could produce such variety and complexity. Even today, creationism and intelligent design thrive on intuitive incredulity that an unguided, unconscious process could produce such intricate contraptions. We now know that intuition fails us, with feathers, eyes and all living things the product of an entirely natural process. But at the same time, current ways of thinking about evolution give a less-than-complete picture of how that works. Any process built purely on random changes has a lot of potential changes to try. So how does natural selection come up with such good solutions to the problem of survival so quickly, given population sizes and the number of generations available?

By way of an answer, the article highlights recent work showing a relationship between gene regulatory networks (GRNs) and computer-based neural networks. Both consist of nodes with weighted connections between them. As such, GRNs and neural networks are mathematically equivalent. The significance of this equivalence is that much recent success in Artificial Intelligence, as when Googles AlphaGo beat the number two seeded Go champion, relies on heavily neural networks and so-called deep learning. The article, and the paper it highlights, suggest that much the same way neural networks can learn useful patterns, GRNs too could learn patterns that then would form the basis for rapid growth in complexity, perhaps even given just slight tweaks to the network via mutation.

In this way, were told, evolution learns as it goes along, all without the necessity of a designer. In fact, Richard Watson at the University of Southampton is quoted as saying, The observation that evolutionary adaptations look like the product of intelligence isnt evidence against Darwinian evolution  its exactly what you should expect.

What should we make of this proposal? I find the equivalence between GRNs and neural networks both fascinating and not wholly surprising. All idealized networks look similar and share similar properties. Such networks have long been a staple in computer science. But, as always, the hard work is in the details. Those details often get left behind once researchers start playing with their computer models.

The researchers whose work is reported in the article successfully trained their network to reliably produce images, much like a GRN would produce a phenotype  or, more accurately, affect the phenotype since almost all organisms contain multiple GRNs contributing to the whole. They found that, once they removed selection pressure (by which they mean that they stop rejecting network weights that did not lead to, in some way, their target images), the networks remembered the images and could continue to produce them even after mild mutations.

I am willing to take their result as it stands. But I question their model as I question nearly all computer models: What parts of reality did it leave behind (since no model accurately reflects that which it models) and what impact do those parts have? These questions matter all the more in a non-linear system, such as a GRN or neural network, whose behavior can be inherently unpredictable and often suffers from the Butterfly Effect where small changes in initial conditions, or in what the model fails to capture, has massive effects.

I also wonder about the superficial similarity between GRNs and trained neural networks from another angle: When we train a neural network we do so, as Google-owned DeepMind did for AlphaGo, by feeding a single neural network (or, in the case of AlphaGo, a connected set of neural networks) millions of data sets and guiding it along the way. GRNs, on the other hand, exist within an organism that lives in a single place at a single time exposed to a singular (roughly speaking) set of selection pressures. That is, GRNs, if trained at all, must be trained over time and space. There is no single instance of the GRN to receive the data, but, rather, many instances spread throughout the organisms and across the generations.

Worse, whatever is learned by that organism must be passed along to the children. So, unless the papers authors subscribe to some form of Lamarckism, which is exceedingly unlikely, without a clear inheritance path all the training value is lost.

The similarity between GRNs and neural networks is instructive on this point: Neural networks were invented in the 1940s with the roots of the more modern form dating to the late 1980s. But those attempts failed. Why? Because they lack the data sufficient to train the network. AlphaGo succeeded by training their single network with millions and millions of Go boards (more or less). Anything less than that and AlphaGo would have failed to win. Since GRNs are distributed across time and space, no one network can receive the necessary data to succeed. No matter how similar they might be to neural networks, without concentrated training theyll learn and remember nothing on their own.

On the other hand, if the GRN were designed, then wed expect to see it with the correctly weighted connections to properly do its job, even in the absence of training. And that is what we see.

Image: Bald eagle, thinking again, by Lewis Hulbert [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons.
Instagram has followed in the footsteps of sister company Facebook to announce a new algorithmic timeline that will give more visibility to posts based on users' interests.



Users miss more than 70 per cent of their feed, said the company in a press statement.



"To improve your experience, your feed will soon be ordered to show the moments we believe you will care about the most. The order of photos and videos in your feed will be based on the likelihood youll be interested in the content, your relationship with the person posting and the timeliness of the post. As we begin, were focusing on optimizing the order  all the posts will still be there, just in a different order," the company further wrote. The changes are expected to roll out globally in the coming months.



Facebook and Instagram are not the only ones who are pushing to promote a more relevant timeline to users. Just last month, Twitter also announced that it would be introducing a new algorithmic-based timeline, though, after adverse public opinion, Twitter introduced it as an optional feature.



Will Twitter's new timeline challenge brand creativity?



The changes being made in the timeline are of some concern to brands and agencies which use these platforms for communication as they will have a direct impact on the organic reach of their content and might force them to pay up for reach that they were getting for free till now; as happened with Facebook campaigns last year.



On the other hand, it will also force brands to invest more money and time to create better social media content, which is relevant and interesting to the audience and this is something that was inevitable, said digital agency heads we spoke with.

Organic content will take a back seat with the launch of this new Instagram algorithm. If your Instagram account doesn't have a great follower count or likes, the chance of your post reaching a large number of audiences will be further reduced, no matter how creative or cool your post may be," said Randal Gomes, Creative Lead at MindShift Interactive.



The trick, he says, is to focus equally on engagement ideas that will allow you to increase your follower base and sustained engagements. "Create content that will intrigue your audiences and leverage Instagram-friendly tools such as Hyperlapse and Boomerang to innovate with the way you tell your story," he added.

And this is where the fundamental challenge will come in for digital marketers. As Gautam Mehra, VP & Business Head (Social Media) at iProspect India opines, "Very few brands actually create content for social media. It is more a question of adapting content to the platform."

The biggest concern, says Siddharth Hegde, Founder and MD at Ethinos Digital Marketing, is how Instagram will really show us stuff that we want to see. I dont trust the algorithm enough to do that. Many feel that Instagram is going to go the Facebook way, first came the ads, which seem a lot more intrusive and now the algorithms change like Facebook. It seems to be a work in progress and may or may not always work out the way it is was planned. Instagram still has the highest levels of organic amongst the social media platforms and this may not remain for more than 6 to 12 months, he said.



The crucial aspect is that increased filters in targeting could result in higher rates. It will most definitely push brands to pump in money on Instagram. This new algorithm will be beneficial for brands as it will target prospective consumers. Though brand managers may have to change their strategy in terms of investment and significance of the content, opined Suveer Bajaj, Co-founder of FoxyMoron.

The content strategy will change in two folds, he feels. Firstly, it will impact the frequency of the content, as the quality will increase and the frequency of the content will decrease. Also, each individual piece of content will have to convey a communication point catering to a specific audience. Now that organic reach has been severely compromised, not only do they need to invest on content, but also on pushing the posts, which will most definitely impact the financial allocation of the marketing plan as well, he added.

Saugata Bagchi, National Head at Quasar, agrees that with Instagram trying to build up its ad business, the change in algorithm was inevitable, which might cause some marketers and users to feel cheated.



However, this is not necessarily a bad thing in the long run. The quality of branded content will go up significantly, with agencies putting more time and effort to work on individual pieces. The targeting of the content will be sharper  the media dollars will ensure the right TG gets to view the content. This move should help prop the engagement rates back. With the right user receiving targeted/quality content from a brand, the potential of the user to go look for content proactively will also go up, so organic engagement does not necessarily have to die, he added.

Meanwhile, Instagram's tinkering with the timeline has lead to the expected outrage by users who do not want social platforms to decide what they see or don't. A number of users took to Instagram to express their disappointment while others turned to platforms like Twitter:

@instagram Cant you just make the new #InstagramAlgorithm an option? A lot of people would rather not have choice taken away from them  Ed Siemienkowicz (@9mm_Ed) March 17, 2016

Ugh, now Instagram is gonna decide which posts I wanna see first?!

Why can't social media platforms just leave the time line of real life...  Zedd (@Zedd) March 16, 2016

Read more news about (internet advertising India, internet advertising, advertising India, digital advertising India, media advertising India)
If Jesus were alive today, do you think he would be comfortable with the Communist Party government in China?

Thats a question BBC reporter John Sudworth asked Pastor Wu Weiqing, a Beijing based priest, who serves in an official, state-sanctioned church. The pastor replies without hesitation: Absolutely. I think so.

Oh my.

First of all, as the Easter holiday reminds us, Jesus is alive today. Second, Jesus would most definitely not be comfortable with the Communist Party government in China. And the Communist Party government in China would not be comfortable with Jesus.

To understand why we merely have to look at the stated views of the Communist Party of China (CPC), which are outlined in the Constitution of Communist Party of China. That document explicitly states the philosophical and political guides that motivates and drives the CPC:



The Communist Party of China takes Marxism-Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory, the important thought of Three Represents and the Scientific Outlook on Development as its guide to action.

Lets consider the influence of Marxism-Leninism, which the CPC constitution says, brings to light the laws governing the development of the history of human society. The primary law the Marxist-Leninist believe governs history is dialectical materialism, which as Lenin himself said, is a materialism which is absolutely atheistic and positively hostile to all religion. But while, as Lenin adds, Marxism is materialism and materialism is atheistic and hostile to religion, atheism is not the primary concern of Marxism. As Lenin explains,

We must combat religionthat is the ABC of all materialism, and consequently of Marxism. But Marxism is not a materialism which has stopped at the ABC. Marxism goes further. It says: We must know how to combat religion, and in order to do so we must explain the source of faith and religion among the masses in a materialist way. The combating of religion cannot be confined to abstract ideological preaching, and it must not be reduced to such preaching. It must be linked up with the concrete practice of the class movement, which aims at eliminating the social roots of religion.

Atheistic propaganda can even hinder the class struggle inherent in Marxism. Lenin gives an example of how they can conflict:

The proletariat in a particular region and in a particular industry is divided, let us assume, into an advanced section of fairly class-conscious Social-Democrats, who are of course atheists, and rather backward workers who are still connected with the countryside and with the peasantry, and who believe in God, go to church, or are even under the direct influence of the local priestwho, let us suppose, is organising a Christian labour union. Let us assume furthermore that the economic struggle in this locality has resulted in a strike. It is the duty of a Marxist to place the success of the strike movement above everything else, vigorously to counteract the division of the workers in this struggle into atheists and Christians, vigorously to oppose any such division. Atheist propaganda in such circumstances may be both unnecessary and harmfulnot from the philistine fear of scaring away the backward sections, of losing a seat in the elections, and so on, but out of consideration for the real progress of the class struggle, which in the conditions of modern capitalist society will convert Christian workers to Social-Democracy and to atheism a hundred times better than bald atheist propaganda. To preach atheism at such a moment and in such circumstances would only be playing into the hands of the priest and the priests, who desire nothing better than that the division of the workers according to their participation in the strike movement should be replaced by their division according to their belief in God. An anarchist who preached war against God at all costs would in effect be helping the priests and the bourgeoisie (as the anarchists always do help the bourgeoisie in practice). A Marxist must be a materialist, i. e., an enemy of religion, but a dialectical materialist, i. e., one who treats the struggle against religion not in an abstract way, not on the basis of remote, purely theoretical, never varying preaching, but in a concrete way, on the basis of the class struggle which is going on in practice and is educating the masses more and better than anything else could. [Emphasis added]

Lest you think Im merely quoting from an obscure source, let me add that the CPC constitution says that Communist Party members must fulfill the following duties, including To conscientiously study Marxism-Leninism . . . Studying the works of Lenin is a prime duty.

They are also expected to adhere to the principle that the interests of the Party and the people stand above everything else, subordinating their personal interests to the interests of the Party and the people, . . . Pastor Wu Weiqing shows one way that this subordinating of personal interest affects Christians in China. We have to remember first of all we are a citizen of this country, he says. And we are a citizen of the Kingdom of God. That comes second.

That is exactly backwards, according to Jesus. But its in keeping with the goals of the CPC: Members of the Communist Party of China must serve the people wholeheartedly, dedicate their whole lives to the realization of communism, and be ready to make any personal sacrifices.

For Chinese communists, one of those personal sacrifices must ultimately be giving up any belief in God and his rule. And Jesus would not be comfortable with a political system that required good party members to reject him and his Kingdom. So for that reason alone, he would likely prefer his followers not be members of the CPC.

But there is a more foundational reason Jesus could never be a communist: as the very King of Kings he is, broadly speaking, the ultimate monarchist.
Dairy Issues Unsettled Investors In the New Zealand Dollar Exchange Rates Last Week. Where Next for the British Pound to NZ Dollar?

Today's foreign exchange investors find the British pound to New Zealand dollar exchange rate in a sharp decline.

The British pound has fallen from around the 2.010 level and looks set to text 2016 lows.

Risk appetite has largely improved in the wake of commentary from Fed Chair Janet Yellen, who reaffirmed that the central banks monetary policy is data dependent and suggested a rather more dovish outlook on interest rates.

This has seen the GBP/NZD exchange rate substantially weakened as investors take the opportunity to buy back into the risk-sensitive New Zealand Dollar.

Latest Pound/New Zealand Dollar Exchange Rates

On Sunday the Pound to British Pound exchange rate (GBP/GBP) converts at 1

FX markets see the pound vs pound exchange rate converting at 1.

FX markets see the pound vs australian dollar exchange rate converting at 1.772.

The pound conversion rate (against us dollar) is quoted at 1.13 USD/GBP.

Please note: the FX rates above, updated 23rd 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.

Worries over a potentially imminent interest rate rise from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) have failed to especially weigh on the New Zealand Dollar exchange rates at the start of the week.

Despite the unexpected hawkishness of comments from other members of the FOMC over recent days, markets appear to remain confident that Fed Chair Janet Yellen will reiterate a more dovish outlook tonight, bolstering the appeal of the risk-sensitive NZD.

The New Zealand Dollar rate has fared poorly over the previous week, with losses primarily stemming from a deterioration of the nations dairy industry.

The biggest blow came when national dairy giant Fonterra announced that it would be raising the dividends of dairy farmers, which served to support those agricultural workers, but the news was tempered by the fact that it took a major decline in dairy prices to trigger this response.

On the home front, the Westpac consumer confidence result for the first quarter fell, as did the national credit card spending figures for February on the month and the year.

Major Shortage of New Zealand Data This Week Set to Leave NZ Dollar (NZD) Exchange Rates Rudderless

There are extremely few New Zealand economic announcements scheduled to be made this week, therefore for the most part, the New Zealand Dollar is expected to be shifted by any notable fluctuations in the price of milk.

On the barely present data front, Tuesday night will bring the building permits result for February, while Friday will bring the NBNZ business confidence outcome for March.

Looking even further ahead to the week after next, the Kiwi data on offer will cover the NZIER capacity utilisation and business confidence outcomes for the first quarter. This is due on April 6th.

Pound Sterling (GBP) Exchange Rates Dived Last Week on Brexit Fears and Political Unrest

The previous weeks movement for the Pound Sterling was almost universally poor  the UK currency started out on a negative note and only managed to recover its losses towards the close of the week.

The week to come is set to be a standard one for the Pound, which will initially have no input on Monday like many other nations. Opening Tuesday will be the Nationwide house prices for March, on the month and the year.

Following on from this will be Wednesday nights Gfk March consumer confidence survey, while Friday will bring the net consumer credit score for February and the finalised Q4 GDP printing on the year as well.

Aussie Dollar (AUD) Forecast: Australian Credit and Manufacturing Score to Look Forward to this Week

Last week saw the Australian Dollar slide overall against its rivals, owing to the US Dollar steadily appreciating on a string of hawkish Federal Reserve speeches.

The coming week is set to bring a range of Australian economic announcements, although none are expected to be high impact. Opening off proceedings will be Tuesday nights ANZ Roy Morgan weekly consumer confidence index.

With nothing out on Wednesday, it will be left for Thursdays stagnation-predicted private sector credit result to generate movement, along with the AiG performance of manufacturing index which is due to be announced later on the same day.

Pound to New Zealand Dollar Outlook: Potential for Further Hardship among NZ Dairy Farmers, According to Agribusiness Professor

While it may currently be flagging, the dairy industry in New Zealand remains a vital component of the national economy.

Unfortunately, however, the recent boosting of dividends by Fonterra may not be enough to reverse the current movement in a downwards direction for the key industry.

This is the theory put across by University of Waikato Professor of Agribusiness Jacqueline Rowarth, who has said the dividend decision was a big corporate salary bill.

The Professor recommended that Fonterra:

Focus on what New Zealand farmers do bestfree range, pasture fed, high animal welfare.

Major NZD Related Events to Watch This Week

The key NZD-focused events to watch this week include the NZ Building Consents (source).


New fees for visas and immigration and nationality applications in the UK are now in force with a maximum amount set for the next four years.Visas linked most closely to economic growth, such as those offered to workers and students, have increased by 2% and a 2% increase also affects all visitor visas.There is an increase of up to 25% for settlement, residence and nationality fees, as these routes deliver the most benefits to successful applicants and an increase of up to 33% for optional premium services offered by the Home Office such as the super-premium service and priority visa services overseas.Fees for all sponsorship categories have been held at the current rates and officials said that the new structure should ensure that the UK remains attractive to business, migrants and visitors."These changes ensure that the Home Office can achieve a self-funding system, whilst continuing to provide a competitive level of service," said a spokesman.Meanwhile the Super Priority Visa Service has been extended to the UK visa application centre in Astana, Kazakhstan. The Home Office spokesman said it is another example of how the UK is leading the world in the provision of premium visa services for those coming to the UK to visit or work.The new service, which costs 750 in addition to the visa and User Pays fee, is aimed at those who want extra speed and flexibility. It is completely optional. The service can be used to apply for long term, multi-entry visas, valid for up to 10 years, and also for long term study and work visas."As part of our long term economic plan, we are determined to do everything we can to back business, support investment and create jobs. The new 24 hour visa service will persuade more business travellers, investors and tourists to visit Britain, to trade with Britain and to expand in Britain," said British Prime Minister David Cameron.He described the move as good news for British business and tourism, helping the UK to build a more resilient economy and secure a brighter future for Britain.Carolyn Browne, the UK Ambassador to Kazakhstan, said that last year over 15,000 UK visas were issued for Kazakhstani citizens. "I'm sure that this new service, in addition to the existing services which include both routine and priority visa tracks, will contribute to a further increase in Kazakhstanis choosing to visit the UK," she pointed out.
 Wheres the Coverage? Palestinian Official Admits Torture Happens | Main | Jews Are Still the Canary 

March 28, 2016

Israeli Firm Helps FBI Crack San Bernardino Terrorists Phone Encryption

Note: This post was updated on April 5, 2016 to reflect more current information

An Israeli digital forensics firm reportedly is helping the FBI try to gain access to data believed stored in an iPhone used by one of the terrorists killed in the Dec. 2, 2015 San Bernardino, Ca. attack that murdered 14 people and injured 22 others.

USA Today reported (New Twist in Apple Case Leads to Israel,? March 24, 2016) that Cellebrite, a company headquartered in Petah Tikvaa suburb of Tel Avivis working with the FBI to help access the phone. The paper noted that Cellebrite has associated offices in Parsippany, N.J., and affiliates in Europe and Asia.? It also has a history of working with the FBI, having previously provided kits for extracting data from cell phones in 2013.

Cellebrites mobile forensics division has developed a mobile-extraction device that may enable the bureau to access the phones encrypted data without assistance from Apple. USA Today noted that the potential for this hack enabled the Department of Justice to ask for an eleventh-hour postponement in its hearing over a court order, fought by Apple, that the iPhone creator write a software override to the terrorists phone.?

Private entities are not the only groups of Israelis working to forestall and investigate Islamist terror in the West.

The former head of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) military intelligence, Maj. Gen. Amos Yadlin, said on March 27 that Israeli intelligence sharing with Western counterparts had prevented additional terrorist attacks (Former head of military intel: Russian army still in Syria,? Israel Hayom, March 27).

The Times of Israel reported on March 28 that the head of the U.S. National Security Agency, Admiral Michael Rogers, paid a secret visit to Israel last week to discuss cooperation in cyber-defense, in particular to counter attacks by Iran and its Lebanon-based proxy Hezbollah (NSA chief makes secret Israel trip to talk Iran, Hezbollah cyber-warfare?).? Rogers, who also oversees the U.S.s Cyber Command, met with commanders from the IDFs 8200 intelligence unit, which focuses on signal intelligence (SIGINT) and code decryption.

As CAMERA has noted (Wheres the Coverage? Iran Cyber-Attacked New York City-Area Dam,? Dec. 22, 2015), Iran, a country that has funded Islamist terror groups, such as Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hamas and Hezbollah, is alleged to have been behind hacking attacks aimed at both the United States and Israel.

In fighting the common enemy of jihadist terror and those who sponsor it, U.S. and Israeli national security and technology cooperation will remain an important if not always reported story.

Update: An April 2, 2016 Washington Post article, "FBI ponders sharing tool to help unlock iPhone with local law agencies," noted: "The firm that helped the bureaunot the Israeli company Cellebrite, as had been widely rumoredcharged a one-time flat fee, officials said. The bureau is not releasing the company's name."











Posted by SD at March 28, 2016 01:36 PM

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REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio  The Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board reviewed its first four chapters of animal care during an administrative meeting March 23.

The board has reviewed its standards each year since they were finalized, in 2011, to consider new science and potential industry changes.

The chapters reviewed include euthanasia, civil penalties, general considerations and definitions, and disabled and distressed livestock.

Primarily, the rules have stood as they were adopted early on, but nevertheless, we are required by statute to do this (review), said Dave Glauer, technical writer, and a past state veterinarian.

During the review of euthanasia rules, Glauer said there have been times in the past year, when western states needed to conduct mass euthanasia in order to control avian influenza, and to fulfill U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements for euthanazing affected birds.

But he said that Ohios standard appears to fit within that definition.

The Ohio standard currently reads, for unusual conditions which require euthanasia of populations, such as wide spread disease eradication and exigent circumstances, the director may authorize alternate methods, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code.

The rule also states that those alternate methods must still minimize animal pain and suffering to the extent reasonably possible, while considering the threat to human health and safety.

More standards

The board is scheduled to review standards on veal, dairy, beef, swine, sheep and goats at its Aug. 16 meeting.

Ohio Agriculture Director Dave Daniels said after all 15 chapters have been reviewed, at the end of the year, the complete rule package will be presented to the Ohio Legislature.

This is an ongoing series of opportunities to look at the rules that we have in place, and how science (and management practices) changes, Daniels said.

Investigation report

Dan Goeglein, executive director for the board, gave an update on investigations. In 2015, he said there were 33 total investigations, with 23 that resulted in no violations, nine that are now in compliance, and one that is pending compliance.

The majority of investigations involve cattle and equine, and when asked about the size of operations, Goeglein said about 80-90 percent involve backyard, small operations.

In 2012, there were 51 investigations, 2013 had 29, and in 2014, there were 23 investigations.

So far, 2016 is on pace to set a record, with 10 investigations to date.

But Goeglein explained that part of the increase is likely due to local humane societies relying on the state for investigations. He said about half the calls hes getting are coming from local humane societies.

Current board members

The board also introduced two of its newest members, David LaBourveau and John Surber.

LaBourveau is vice president of strategic initiatives for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, in Cincinnati.

Surber is a Highland County farmer who operates Sabina Farmers Exchange-Premier Solutions, and is planning an organic dairy farm in 2017.

Other current board members include Bruce McPheron, past dean of Ohio States ag college; Bryan Black, swine producer from Canal Winchester; Agriculture Director David Daniels, State Veterinarian Tony Forshey; Jeff LeJeune, OSU researcher; Tuscarawas County farmer Jerry Lahmers; Lisa Hamler-Fugitt, executive director of the Ohio Association of Food Banks; Dr. Ryan Zimmerman, Ohio Veterinary Medical Association; William Knapke, Ohio Pork Producers Council; and Terrence Stammen, Darke County dairy farmer.

Related coverage:
 World Post Pushes Myth of Moderate Iran | Main | Israeli Firm Helps FBI Crack San Bernardino Terrorists Phone Encryption 

March 28, 2016

Wheres the Coverage? Palestinian Official Admits Torture Happens

>



Rami Hamdallah, the prime minister of the Palestinian Authority (PA), acknowledged in a March 16, 2016 interview with German media outlet Deutsche Welle, that torture happens? in PA prisons. Yet, his admission apparently received no coverage by the mainstream U.S. news media.

The PA officials comments were highlighted in a policy brief by analyst Grant Rumley of Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a D.C.-based think tank.

Speaking on camera to Deutsche Welle, Hamdallah granted that, Certain things happen, torture happens, but it is not the policy [of the Palestinian Authority].

As CAMERA has noted, (Hamas Cracks Downon Palestinian Journalists,? Jan. 13, 2016) torture of Palestinian Arabs in both the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) by the PA and in Gaza by Hamas, is not uncommon.

The Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR), a Palestinian group that seeks to promote inherent values of justice, equality and human rights,? reports that over the last two years there has been a surge in complaints about torture in PA and Hamas prisons.

Torture by the PA extends past prison walls and has included the targeting of journalists and teachers, among others.

In December 2015, the Palestinian Center for Developments and Media Freedoms accused PA security forces of using violent means? against journalists. Such forces reportedly beat and detained [reporters]preventing them from news coverage while inspecting and seizing their equipment? (Group urges investigations into PA violations against journalists,? Dec. 28, 2015). ICHRs director general, Dr. Ammar Dwaik, stated of the 782 complaints regarding torture of Palestinian Arabs by Hamas and the PA, at least 35 involved journalists who were detained. Fifteen of that number were summoned for interrogation or briefly detained for posting controversial comments on social media, especially Facebook.?

One individual detained for a critical Facebook post, Ahmad al-Deek, alleged in a law suit against the PA filed last year that he was deprived of sleep and beaten with sticks for five days for criticizing the authority.

FDD analyst Rumley noted that ahead of a Palestinian teacher strike in February [2016], the PA arrested and held nearly two dozen teachers.? As CAMERA reported at the time (Journalist: Striking Palestinian Teachers Show PA Corruption,? March 9), the PAs security crackdown and illegal detentions were to hinder or prevent? rallies protesting corruption. Rumley also pointed out that during last years student council race at Birzeit University the PA had arrested and beaten? several students affiliated with rival Hamas, a U.S.-designated terror group that rules the Gaza Strip.

Yet, major U.S. news media have shown little interest in reporting allegations of PA tortureor admissions by the authoritys prime minister that those claims are not without merit. A Lexis-Nexis search of U.S. print news media, including USA Today, The Washington Post, The Washington Times and The New York Times, among others, showed no mention of Hamdallahs acknowledgement that PA torture occurs.

Rumley noted that Palestinians have little recourse in confronting the PAs abuses? that indicate the room for dissent in the West Bank is shrinking, and those who challenge the system continue to pay a painful price.? That price likely will continue to be paid as long as news media outlets fail to report human rights violations by the PA.

Posted by SD at March 28, 2016 12:16 PM

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The French bill for Transparency and Modernization of Economic Life, which, among other things, aims at preventing foreign bribery and intensifying the fight against it, has been the subject of much speculation during the past few months.

The bill was originally composed of a series of measures. They included creating a national agency in charge of monitoring the implementation of anti-bribery compliance programs in companies above a certain size, increasing protection for whistleblowers, and introducing settlements to resolve foreign bribery allegations.

But at the end of last week, the Conseil dEtat (Frances highest administrative court) delivered an opinion advising the government to strike the provision on settlements before introducing the bill to the French parliament.

The debate over settlements to enforce the French foreign anti-bribery law has been going on for some time. While France has been criticized by the OECD Working Group on Bribery for its lack of enforcement efforts, French companies have been subject to heavy FCPA enforcement in the United States. In fact, three of the top ten FCPA cases involve French companies.

The introduction of settlements through the new bill was intended to restore the enforcement balance. French Minister of Finance Michel Sapin, under whose authority the bill was drafted, said Saturday in an interview that the French arsenal to combat foreign bribery has to be improved, adding that other countries have taken up the task of sanctioning French companies, which impacts Frances image and sovereignty.

In spite of this, the Conseil dEtats opinion does not come as a surprise.

Many stakeholders in France have been opposing the use of settlements to resolve foreign bribery allegations. In their book Deals de Justice, French magistrate Antoine Garapon and attorney Pierre Servan-Schreiber argued that settlements to resolve criminal allegations would conflict with the very foundations of the French penal system and hurt societal and ideological values.

Last week, 14 organizations, including Oxfam, called for the controversial provision to be struck from the bill, arguing that pretrial settlements would lead to increased leniency toward alleged bribe payers, and ultimately lower accountability for French companies when it comes to foreign bribery.

The OECD hasnt advocated pretrial settlements but has acknowledged their efficiency to enforce foreign bribery laws. In fact, since the OECD Anti-Bribery Conventions entry into force nearly 20 years ago, 69% of foreign bribery cases were resolved through settlements, and an increasing number of countries are now using them. The UK used its first deferred prosecution agreement late last year to resolve a foreign bribery enforcement action.

But pretrial agreements are still commonly criticized for lacking transparency or sufficient judicial review. At the outset of the OECD Anti-bribery Ministerial Meetings on March 16 in Paris, Transparency International, Corruption Watch, Global Witness and the UNCAC Coalition called on the OECD to create and impose global standards for settlements in foreign bribery cases that would ensure a proper level of deterrence.

Raising the standards on pre-trial agreements could encourage countries like France to start using them, perhaps under limited circumstances. Although there are valid criticisms against negotiated resolutions, the fact remains that not a single company has been convicted in France of overseas bribery through traditional justice.

The parliament will still have the option to discuss the issue of settlements as part of the bill, but it is very unlikely that it will happen.

_____

Elisabeth Danon is a legal analyst at the World Bank, where she specializes in public procurement. She previously worked at the Anti-corruption Division of the OECD. She can be contacted here.
We recently filed comments with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Developments (OECD) Council on Public Integrity, making suggestions on the Councils draft Recommendation on Public Integrity.

The OECD is a forum where the governments of 34 democracies with market economies work to promote economic growth, prosperity, and sustainable development.

The OECD Recommendation deals with promoting integrity in government, with an emphasis on the use of management techniques.

As background, were both actively involved with the Rutgers Center for Government Compliance and Ethics. (Joe is the chair and Emil is the executive director.) We are not writing this on behalf of Rutgers; we are writing as individuals.

Based on our decades of practical compliance and ethics experience, we suggested to the OECD that:

1. The Council on Public Integrity should use the concept of a compliance and ethics (C&E) program, as widely applied globally, as a starting point and model. C&E programs are already widespread  why reinvent the concepts?

2. The Council should consider using the OECD Working Group on Briberys Good Practice Guidance modified to address public integrity and public sector entities. These are good standards for compliance programs  why not use them?

3. The Recommendation should include a examples to illustrate how the suggestions in the Recommendation would work on a best practice basis.

4. The Council should include public international organizations, such as the OECD, in the scope of the Recommendation. We think it is good for those making recommendations to follow their own advice.

5. The Recommendation should call on the public sector to promote C&E in the private sector to protect public integrity. If we want honest government it helps to promote integrity in the private sector, and C&E programs there help protect everyone.

6. The Council should advise states not to take actions that undercut C&E programs anywhere, whether in the private sector or the public sector. There have been some terribly ill-advised actions by governments that hurt C&E programs. Why have one part of government undermining something that another part is promoting?

7. The Council should form an ongoing working group to promote and implement the Recommendation. The Recommendation is good, and should have some ongoing life.

8. The Rutgers Center for Government Compliance and Ethics offers an important resource for development of public integrity programs. Its a one-of-a-kind source for guidance on how government agencies can implement their own, internal C&E programs.

* * *

We posted the actual filing here.

_____

Joe Murphy is the Advisory Board Chair of the Rutgers Center for Government Compliance and Ethics. Hes a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional and author of 501 Ideas for Your Compliance and Ethics Program: Lessons from 30 Years of Practice (SCCE; 2008). He was co-founder and vice-chairman of the board of Integrity Interactive Corporation (now part of SAI Global). He serves on the board of the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE). He can be contacted here.

Emil Moschella is the Executive Director of the Rutgers Center for Government Compliance and Ethics. He was with the FBI as an agent-attorney for over 28 years and served as Chief of the Legal Advice and Training Section of the FBI. Between 1997 and 2003 he was the Director of Corporate Compliance for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. He recently completed assisting the FBI in the implementation of its corporate styled compliance program  a first in the federal government. He can be contacted here.


Bridge of Spies is a film that was met with critical acclaim last year and saw Steven Spielberg reunite with Tom Hanks. This is their fourth feature film together and the first since The Terminal.

Tom Hanks in Bridge of Spies

Bridge of Spies sees Hanks take on the real-life role of James B. Donovan, a lawyer who gets pulled into the Cold War when he is recruited by the CIA.

- Bridge of Spies is perhaps the greatest cold war story never told. How much did you know about James B. Donovan going into the movie?

I had never heard of James Donovan and I didn't know anything about these negotiations. I just saw how powerfully authentic it was. The actual exchange itself was only six days out of everybody's life but my God what a six days it was. I actually thought impossible things had happened in the screenplay and said 'No way!' but found out he did actually do these things.

- The pressure that Donovan was under for representing a Russian spy was immense.

The background to the Cold War scare was misplaced paranoia. Any concept of defending a spy was going to be, 'Why are you helping these people kill us?' Donovan got a lot of hate mail and somebody did shoot at his house. Cops had to come in and protect them. He did take a lot of heat for defending a guy who had sworn to bring down the United States of America.

- How did you create the magical chemistry you share with Mark Rylance playing Abel?

Donovan and Abel developed quite an affection for each other. With The Boss' (Steven's) permission, I called up Mark up and said, 'Hey we're in this movie together, let's get together and run the lines if nothing else'. So he and I got together in New York. He's an artist without compare.

- Donovan feels like the quintessential Tom Hanks hero. Does it feel different playing a real-life figure to a fictional character?

There are two versions of it. One is in which the people are still alive. That's tricky. In the case of James Donovan, he's passed away so we are not going to screw up his life by talking about it too much. There was enough footage of him that I could determine a number of things.

One, I look absolutely nothing like him. It's hilarious. That's no big deal. But there's the other aspect of how he addressed his mission as an insurance lawyer and how that impacted the movie. My first job was to maintain that degree of integrity.

- Were you into spy movies and spying a kid?

At the height of the James Bond thing, I had Agent 0M Spy briefcase made by Mattel. It was a plastic briefcase and on the inside of it had this gun with a silencer you could assemble but it also had this cheap camera that actually worked.

You put film in it, close the briefcase with this little button sticking up. You could put the briefcase on the table, you could lean on it and it would take a picture. It was the coolest thing in the world.

- How would you describe the film's view of spying?

When I read (the script), what I was impressed with was that it didn't take spycraft and elevate it into something more important than 'Burn this telephone number after you've memorised it.' That's all he had to do. But the rest of it was a very cinematic version of very dramatic moments of waiting to get through a long line of passport control or waiting for a car to show up at the other end of the bridge.

That's just great stuff and it seemed to me to be an awful lot about what spying really is: you're just sitting around waiting for something to happen or for information to come.

- The climax of the film is a classic set piece of Spielbergian suspense based around a phone call. How is that to play as an actor?

Those scenes were a blast to shoot. Often times actors just want to talk and talk and talk and talk and talk because, if they are talking, then they know the camera will be on them. When you get to be in one of the key moments in a movie and there's no dialogue and all you get to do is play looks and moments, it's just delicious.

- Saving Private Ryan, Band Of Brothers, Catch Me If You Can and now Bridge Of Spies have all found fresh relevant takes on history. How do Steven and yourself immerse yourself in such stories?

We read about it for pleasure. I get into bed and I'm reading some 1400 page tome and Rita (Wilson, Hanks' wife) says 'What's that about?' and I'll say, 'It's about some arcane thing in the 14th century' and Rita says, "Will you ever just read a novel?" And I say, "I've tried, baby, I've tried. But that stuff is just made up!"

Bridge Of Spies is available on Digital HD on 20th March and on Blu-ray and DVD from 28th March, courtesy of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
The Night Manager has been a television series that has kept everybody intently interested throughout its six week run. Whether it's on the back of the wonderful storytelling in the television adaptation of the John le Carre novel, or because of the hype surrounding Tom Hiddleston's bottom and 'six week audition for James Bond', it's never let up and has held the audience's neck by the scruff, refusing to let go until this week's final credits rolled, allowing us all to breathe in a sigh of relief.

Credit: BBC One

Last week we saw just what sort of carnage, chaos and destruction could be brought about by the deals the villainous Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie) had made throughout his criminal career and so this week, in a return to Cairo, the stakes were at an all time high as our story reached its dramatically dazzling conclusion.

With a lot of sneaking around and eyes firmly on the prize, Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston), now known as Andrew Birch, was taking another shot at bringing down the man with whom he had now spent so much time with. A failed attempt to bring him to justice last week was a minor stepback but one that had some huge repercussions. Roper's partner Jed (Elizabeth Debicki) for example would face the back-end of his hand and this week, would be spied upon by her former friend before being tortured for information by Roper's hitman, Tabby (Hovik Keuchkerian).

Before that though and almost instantly in the episode, we saw Roper's cogs finally start turning when it came to Jonathan Pine. He was beginning to work out exactly what was going on but before he could tie up all the loose ends, Pine ensured he would get revenge on the man who took the life of Sophie/Samira Alekan (Aure Atika) - the returning Freddie Hamid (David Avery).

Enjoying a night in the casino, Pine slowly and meticulously continued to spike Hamid's drink so that he would have an excuse to 'put him to bed', where he executed the killing blow which we'd all been hoping for four or five weeks prior. A win for Team Pine, but only the start of a hugely strenuous uphill battle.

Credit: BBC One

The scenes with Jed this week certainly packed a punch and whilst we willed her to somehow escape the clutches of her violent partner and his bodyguard, it wasn't looking good. That is of course until Olivia Colman's brilliant and pregnant Angela Burr gained wind of her entire secret operation being flunked, hid in her room with a gun and shot Jed's keeper in the leg before escaping with the beauty. After that, it was all down to Pine to seal the deal despite his identity being uncovered.

Justice was then finally dealt to Roper, but perhaps not in the way that viewers would have thought. Upon discovering Pine wasn't the man he thought he could trust, he gave him a sharp hook to the stomach before demanding he go through with a deal which would secure him hundreds of billions of dollars. After all, it was Andrew Birch's name on the company dealing in arms, so he couldn't dispose of him just yet. Fortunately, Pine had already laid a plan in action with his old friend and now Head Chef Youssef (Amir El-Masry) from the Nefertiti Hotel, resulting in the hundreds of millions of pounds worth of weapons to go up in smoke, and some extremely angry Egyptian buyers.

Taken in by the police upon his return to the hotel, Roper was to be charged for all of his crimes, but it would be the Egyptian criminal underworld who decided just how he should be dealt with. He screamed in terror as he was carted away whilst Angela simply smiled and said what was on all of our minds: 'He deserves it'.

The Night Manager has been a tense, suspenseful and glorious drama. It's also been one that's forced the viewer to look at the real world through not-so-rose-tinted glasses. Though this is a work of fiction you cannot help but wonder, in today's world, just how much corruption such as the one displayed in this adaptation is going on. And thinking even a slither of what Roper and corrupt British agents got up to on the show is happening in real life is a very scary thought indeed.

Credit: BBC One

Hiddleston has been a true delight, and not just because of his buns. His acting has been on par with some of the greatest of all time. If this is indeed going to lead him into the slot of the next James Bond, I'll be all for it.

The level of acting has in fact been at an incredibly high level from the entire cast throughout the entire series. Every single casting choice was the right one, from the leading ladies and gentleman to the young Noah Jupe as Daniel Roper and the various supporting actors.

Available on DVD & Blu-ray from March 28, The Night Manager has a run time of approximately 5 hours, 44 minutes and is rated 15.

by Daniel Falconer for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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Ever since Karan Johar announced that he is planning to make Student of the Year 2, a lot of speculations about the film's star cast have been made. But according to the recent reports, Karan is planning to launch Saif Ali Khan's daughter in SOTY 2.

While Alia, Varun and Sidharth Malhotra clarified to the media by saying that they are not reuniting for Student of the Year 2, many young actors expressed their desire to be part of the franchise.

Click On VIEW PHOTOS To See Sara Ali Khan's Beautiful Pictures

Sara Ali Khan is currently finishing her studies in London. She is the elder daughter of Saif Ali Khan and his first wife Amrita Singh.

Madly In Love: Behind The Camera Pictures Of Hot Bollywood Couple Deepika Padukone-Ranveer Singh

In one of his interviews, Saif Ali Khan revealed that he does not have any problem with Sara joining Bollywood but he wants Sara to finish her education first, ''Of course, I won't have any problem. It is a wonderful profession. But I would have a problem with her leaving the college and getting into movies,'' Saif told a daily.

Saif Ali Khan further added, ''One day, she messaged me saying she wants to join movies. It was a slightly strangely-worded message but I replied, 'Yes, but after college.' Then there was some silence. Obviously, she doesn't know what she is saying. Some days, she wants to be a lawyer, someday a doctor, then one day she told me she wants to work at the White House!

''I wish someone would have told her that I would have her shot if she even thinks about leaving college. This degree is your only passport. She can get a job anywhere in the world. It would be foolish of her to leave that to act."
Sara Botkin reached the decision to work in her fathers financial advisory practice on Sept. 12, 2001.

The morning before, she had been in the lobby of the South Tower of the World Trade Center, waiting for an elevator that never came to take her to the 105th floor. Botkin had been pursuing a career in classical music in New York and working temporary jobs to make ends meet. Her fathers offer to join the family business in Pittsburgh was tempting. What happened on Sept. 11 sealed the deal.

My whole brain just switched, Botkin recalls. She was ready to go home.

Not all decisions to work with family in an advisory firm are as dramatic, of course.

Hannah Basils epiphany took place while she was working for a startup tech company in Chicago. Basils first job after graduating from college in 2013 was with a large bank, but she wanted to develop a financial planning app for millennials and was drawn to the wider latitude a startup appeared to offer.

But Basil discovered that the demands of the firms outside investors limited the freedom she had envisioned. As it happened, Hannahs mother, Lois, had more work than she could handle at her planning firm in Chicagos Lincoln Square neighborhood. Lois invited Hannah to attend an Alliance of Comprehensive Planners conference with her in the summer of 2014.

You have to be willing to give up some control, says Lester H. Botkin, on working with his daughter, Sara Botkin, and her brother, Lester Botkin, at Botkin Family Wealth Management.

The idea of working closely with clients appealed to Basil, as did the freedom she could have working with her mother. I realized that in a small business we can do things our own way, she says.

Whether influenced by family bonds or business opportunity, the idea of parents and children working together as advisors is clearly an appealing one. Whats more, it can be a satisfying solution to the often contentious  and neglected  problem of succession planning.

Indeed, only 28% of firms have next-gen owners in place, despite the fact that more than one in three owners are planning to exit the business in the next 10 years, according to Fidelitys 2015 RIA Benchmarking Study.

Finding the best way for families to work together in an advisory firm can be a delicate process, requiring patience, flexibility, trust and fortitude. But the rewards, according to those who have successfully navigated the process, are worth the effort.

The initial transition for children coming into a firm where their parents are established as owners, partners or senior executives is usually the most difficult adjustment, say those who have gone through it.

No rainbows and Sunshine

Thomas Payne joined Tri-Star Financial, his father Bills Houston-based brokerage and advisory firm, in 2002 after working for an environmental company in California. Like Sara Botkin, he had done some soul-searching after 9/11 and concluded that if he didnt forge a closer relationship with his father then, it wouldnt happen.

But Payne admits things were rough at first. Youre a target for everyone already there. Im sure my father had to hear from everyone how much I sucked. It wasnt all rainbows and sunshine.

But his father made clear to his son  and to his partners and the employees  that if Thomas screwed up, he was out. Every father has to do it a different way, says Bill Payne, Tri-Stars president. I wanted Tom to be the best in the company, and I tried to be as fair as humanly possible.

Fourteen years later, Thomas Payne is established as an investment executive at Tri-Star Group, specializing in fixed-income securities.

Paynes trial by fire was replicated by his brother-in-law, Jon Swanburg, who married Bills daughter Rachel and joined the firm in 2009.

Initially, Swanburgs role was not well-defined. This created some problems, Swanburg recalls. I was dissatisfied because there wasnt a clear track and other people were uncomfortable with me on their teams because they never knew whether I was an assistant, a manager, or something in between.

But Bill Payne stepped in and established a set of ground rules for his son-in-law. We developed a path that added clarity and established me as an assistant, says Swanburg, a CFP. The only way I was going to move up was if my team grew assets under management, just like everyone else that starts in the business  no short cuts and no special exceptions.

Having established metrics have also helped Greg De Jong work more comfortably with his son Nick.

De Jong owned his own firm, Paragon Advisors, in Naperville, Ill., a Chicago suburb, for nearly 20 years. He was close to his son Nick but didnt offer him a job because he was afraid of being accused of nepotism.

But after De Jong sold his firm to Savant Capital Management in 2013, Nick, who had been working as an accountant, interviewed with Savant and was hired last year.

Hes completing Savants accelerated career development program in the companys Rockford, Ill., headquarters, and will join his father in the Naperville office this year.

At the end of the day, its a great comfort that Nick has to prove himself using the same metrics that apply to every other advisor in the Savant organization, De Jong says.

While Nick De Jong wont be reporting to his father, he says hes looking forward to working with him: Ill be able to learn from Greg as a professional beyond what he taught me as a son, he says.

SETTING BOUNDARIES

But exactly how do  and should families work together as professional advisors? Both parents and children say establishing boundaries between personal and business life is critical.

When Hannah Basil joined Chicago-based Basil Financial Group, Lois Basil hired a business coach, who recommended setting rules for boundaries and communication. For starters, Hannah would call her mother Lois in the office, not Mom. The two might chat about personal affairs before work got started, but afterward they very rarely talk about their personal lives, Hannah says.

Lois insisted on strict rules for social media: checking Facebook at lunch was OK; planning a trip or a night out with friends during work hours was not OK.

When David Demming Jr. joined his parents Cleveland-based firm, Demming Financial Services, in 2003, some staffers wanted to call them Big Dave and Little Dave.

Absolutely not, the younger Demming informed them. That was not going to happen.

Keeping business and personal life separated was also a goal, though not as easy to enforce, especially because Demmings mother is the firms chief financial officer and treasurer.

It gets muddied, says Demming, now the firms vice president and chief investment officer. You dont want to talk about clients at the dinner table, but sometimes you do.

One way the Demmings try to draw a boundary is to go to a private dining club in their neighborhood when they want to discuss the business outside the office.

Still, it can be difficult to extricate business from family dynamics that are all too human. Sometimes you find yourself wondering Whats work? Whats family? Swanburg says. People dont always agree, and if youre having an issue in the office related to a client, you still have to show up for Christmas dinner.

Conversely, it can be difficult to extricate family dynamics from business. When our stress level is up, we probably get a little snippier with each other than we would with another co-worker, Lois Basil says. On the other hand, we can read each others stress level better than anyone else could.

As for the actual hard work of planning and advice, families who work together say teamwork and accommodation are critical for success.

After an earlier career in education, Dorothy Bickling, who was also a licensed psychologist, founded Bickling Financial Services in Lexington, Mass., in 1987 and was joined by her sons, Spencer Betts in 2000, and Andrew Betts in 2007.

Dorothy raised her sons as a single working mother and that experience, the family says, proved to be a useful prelude to their future partnership.

We had to pull together as a team very early, Andrew recalls. Mom taught evening classes so we used to prepare meals together for the week on the weekend.

Having a team mentality early on helped the family to be better organized and more honest, Spencer adds.

If we wanted something, we had to be very explicit and tell our mother exactly why. One year, I wasnt clear about what I wanted for my birthday party and it wasnt a very good party. The next year, I gave her a mini-business plan.

As adults, Dorothy, Andrew and Spencer say their advisory firm more closely approximates three independent businesses under one roof. They share a bullpen space, collaborate closely, but hardly agree on everything. Weve learned to disagree respectfully, Andrew says.

The key to the firms success, he continues, has been his mothers willingness to accept changes in the practice. My attitude has been shaped by being both an educator and a mother, Dorothy Bickling says. I dont have to be right about everything.

Indeed, collaboration and open-mindedness are common threads in successful family practices.

Even Arthur Kraus, a bona fide industry pioneer who has been an advisor for nearly 50 years, admits that over the years, you can get entrenched in your own ideas.

A former chairman of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, Kraus came out of retirement in 2003 to launch a new firm, Capital Intelligence Association, based in Santa Monica, Calif., with his son Mitchell.

In the beginning, Mitchell Kraus says, his father wanted to do things the way he had always done them. But Arthur says he realized the firm could benefit from a combination of his institutional knowledge and new ideas from his son.

Specifically, Mitchell championed socially responsible investing, also called impact or sustainable investing, as a niche the firm could specialize in to attract both younger clients and those interested in philanthropy.

Arthur embraced the approach and is now a chartered advisor in philanthropy. Capital Intelligence, furthermore, has a thriving multi-generational practice and a reputation for expertise in impact investing.

When I began taking the philanthropy class, it was an aha moment, Arthur says. We changed the practice to focus on giving an extra layer of service and putting our values behind it. I dont think I ever would have done it without Mitchell.

Sara and Lester P. Botkin also say theyve benefited from family integration and input.

While still at Morgan Stanley in 2007, they were joined by Lester H. Botkin, Lesters son and Saras brother. Last year, the Botkin Group went independent to affiliate with LPL Financial as Botkin Family Wealth Management. The transition, Sara says, couldnt have happened without the family being completely honest about what we were good at and not good at.

Lester Sr., who was a popular local golf professional for nearly 25 years, is the most social family member and is the firms rainmaker. His son, a former Marine who did a tour of duty in Iraq, is a certified financial analyst and oversees the firms investment strategy and portfolio reviews, while Sara handles marketing, events and the firms social media presence. Sara credits the trios smooth assimilation to her fathers honesty with us and generosity.

Lester Botkins take on the success of his firm? I have smart kids.

Lois Basil says her practice was transformed when her daughter joined. I went from being a solo entrepreneur to a business owner, she says. Now I feel like Im managing the business instead of the business managing me.

Combining different skill sets and no-holds-barred candor have been key, Basil explains. Hannahs tech skills have allowed us to start using a private cloud server and update our software, she says. And I really value the absolute honest feedback Hannah gives me. Im not sure I could get that from anyone else.

SUCCESSION PLANNING

Curiously, succession planning doesnt appear to be a driving force in causing parents and children to team up. But once a family practice is established, knowing that there is a new generation poised to take over the business has been reassuring to clients and employees.

Dave Demming wasnt thinking about a successor when his son joined his practice. But it quickly became apparent that clients appreciated knowing that the two men could be interchangeable, he says.

We have different personalities but share the same goals for clients, Demming says. I think its myopic if you dont have interchangeability of clients in an intergenerational practice. Im happy if Dave Jr. sees one of our clients and they dont tell me, I missed you, Dave.

Indeed, the firms clients wanted to know who is the future, says Dave Demming Jr., one of the founding members of the Financial Planning Associations Next Generation group. Dad wanted us to be interchangeable early on and made the clients feel comfortable. I dont think they ever felt threatened, and now theyre ready for the next generation.

The Betts brothers joined their mothers firm, an LPL affiliate, for different reasons: Spencer, a computer engineer, wanted to move back to Massachusetts and Andrew thought the skills he learned running a wine business for six years would transfer nicely to planning.

Once it was clear that the brothers and their mother clicked as a business team and trusted one another, the family began to look ahead.

Dorothy Bickling says she is relieved she doesnt have to worry about a successor. Spencer Bickling and his brother have agreements to buy each other out if necessary and are working on a business plan for the next 25 to 30 years.

Its nice building a practice knowing it will be there in the future, he says, and knowing who will be running it.

Similarly, Lester H. Botkin and Sara Botkin are set to take over the business when their father retires. If youre trying to figure out succession planning, Lester Sr. says, theres nothing better than this.


KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- FISSION URANIUM CORP. (TSX: FCU)(OTCQX: FCUUF)(FRANKFURT: 2FU) ("Fission" or "the Company") is pleased to announce results from the final winter regional exploration holes at its' PLS property, host to the Triple R deposit, in Canada's Athabasca Basin region. Of key importance, regional exploration drilling has hit anomalous radioactivity in three new areas:

-- Forest Lake Conductor corridor, 7.28km south-west of the Triple R deposit on land - hole PLS16-478 (line 2910W) intersected anomalous radioactivity with up to 420 cps over 0.5m (237.5m - 238.0m) proximal to a significant 30m wide graphitic fault zone. The drill hole data and geological signatures in the area are of substantial interest and require follow up drilling. -- Gap between R600W zone and the Triple R deposit - hole PLS16-472 (line 435W) intersected anomalous radioactivity over 6.5m with up to 1200 cps. Presently a 480m on-strike gap exists between the western edge of the R00E Zone (line 060W) and the eastern edge of the R600W Zone (line 555W). PLS16-472 is drilled within this gap. Drill log correlation on line 435W suggests that the mineralized graphitic corridor extends 20m further to the north which makes this a priority area for further follow-up. -- Line 1215W (255m west of the shallow, land-based high-grade R840W zone, closer to the High Grade Boulder Field 3km to the west) - RC hole PLS16- 005 and RC hole PLS16-006 encountered moderately anomalous radioactivity on the down hole gamma probe, corresponding with graphitic gneiss with up to 1223 cps and 1207 cps respectively. This area will need further drilling as follow up.

Ross McElroy, President, COO, and Chief Geologist for Fission, commented

"This is a successful end to the 2016 Winter program and we are particularly pleased with our latest exploration drilling: we have very promising results on the Forest Lake area over 7km south of the Triple R and also to the west of this winter's new R840W zone as well as in the gap between the Triple R deposit and the R600W zone. These results follow exploration activity earlier in the program which delivered a new land-based, high-grade zone at R840W, transformed R1620E into a high-grade zone and expanded the mineralized trend at PLS to 2.58km. All three of the new areas will require further drilling as follow up. Our resource drilling has been similarly successful and we now have three high-grade zones that have potential to be added to the Triple R resource."

PATTERSON LAKE CORRIDOR

Core Holes

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- (i) Hand-held Scintillometer Results On Mineralized Drillcore (greater than 300 cps / greater than 0.5M Collar minimum) --------------------------------------------------- CPS Grid From To Width Peak Hole ID Conductor Line Az Dip (m) (m) (m) Range ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-448 PLG-3B 435W 342 -80.9 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-469 PLG-3B 360W 339 -83.4 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- less than 300 PLS16-472 PLG-3B 435W 348 -84.3 95.5 102.0 6.5 - 1200 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-477 PLG-3B 195W 337 -82.3 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-482 PLG-3B 1215W 342 -80.8 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-480 PLG-3C 1725E 334 -70.9 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-453 PLG-1B 630W 323 -84.0 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-457 PLG-1B 630W 332 -81.9 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-461 PLG-1D 4290E 106 -87.9 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-467 PLV-4A 390E 225 -89.0 No Significant Radioactivity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basement Total Lake Sandstone Unconformity Drillhole Depth From - To Depth Depth Hole ID (m) (m) (m) (m) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-448 NA 95.6 - 95.9 95.9 203.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-469 NA 90.0 - 91.0 91.0 215.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-472 NA NA 94.3 320.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-477 NA 67.0 - 68.0 68.0 152.7 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-482 NA NA 113.6 164.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-480 7.4 NA 54.0 128.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-453 NA NA 88.8 347.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-457 NA NA 83.5 347.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-461 31.6 31.6 - 56.5 56.5 320.0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-467 15.4 15.4 - 53.3 53.3 236.0 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

RC Holes

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- (i) Down-Hole Gamma Probe Survey Results (greater than 500 cps / Collar greater than 0.3M minimum) ------------------------------------------------- Grid From To Width CPS CPS Hole ID Conductor Line Az Dip (m) (m) (m) Range Peak ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-002 PLG-3B 915W 343 -84.2 124.7 125.1 0.4 521 539 127.9 132.2 4.3 562 793 139.4 140.9 1.5 599 692 145.1 150.2 5.1 426 1545 153.0 159.9 6.9 625 1941 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-003 PLG-3B 915W 326 -81.9 125.2 128.1 2.9 819 1121 152.4 153.8 1.4 708 922 157.0 158.0 1.0 1059 1585 208.5 209.4 0.9 688 838 215.9 218.1 2.2 538 1599 270.0 271.1 1.1 1276 1810 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-004 PLG-3B 915W 352 -80.4 132.5 142.4 1.4 527 559 135.9 142.4 6.5 502 736 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-005 PLG-3B 1185W 20 -80.8 117.7 123.9 6.2 631 945 127.0 139.9 12.9 715 1223 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-006 PLG-3B 1215W 301 -79.1 117.6 117.9 0.3 534 564 132.5 140.4 7.9 839 1207 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basement Total Lake Sandstone Unconformity Drillhole Depth From - To Depth Depth Hole ID (m) (m) (m) (m) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-002 NA NA 108.2 222.5 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-003 NA NA 109.7 304.8 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-004 NA NA 108.2 172.2 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-005 NA NA 109.7 313.9 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLSRC16-006 NA NA 109.7 286.5 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

PLG-3B Conductor Trend

PLS16-448 (line 435W) planned to test 30 m grid west of PLS13-110 which intersected elevated radioactivity on the 2GHF-1000 gamma probe up to 1,154 cps in a zone with no core recovery. PLS16-448 cored strongly clay, hematite and chlorite altered graphitic gneisses at the top of bedrock which were weakly radioactive, returning up to 290 cps on the RS-121 hand scintillometer. Subsequent drill log correlation of PLS16-448 suggested that a significant amount of the anomalous graphitic gneiss was still open to the north for testing and that follow-up drilling was warranted.

PLS16-472 (435W) planned to follow-up north of the strong alteration and weakly anomalous radioactivity intersected in PLS16-448. PLS16-472 intersected graphitic gneisses at the top of bedrock which hosted a 6.5m wide zone of greater than 300 cps radioactivity on the RS-121 hand scintillometer. Drill log correlation on line 435W suggests that the mineralized graphitic corridor extends 20m further to the north which makes this a priority area for further follow-up.

PLS16-469 (line 360W) planned to test the graphitic gneisses north of PLS13-117 which returned anomalous uranium and boron concentrations up to 110 and 321 ppm, respectively. PLS16-469 intersected moderate to weakly chlorite, hematite and clay altered graphitic gneisses at the top of bedrock which were not radioactive. Drill log correlation suggests that the graphitic gneisses may extend at least another 15m grid north of PLS16-469 and follow-up drilling is warranted.

PLS16-477 (line 195W) planned to test the graphitic gneisses up-dip of the anomalous uranium and boron concentrations in PLS12-020 and PLS13-119 (up to 109 and 212 ppm uranium and boron, respectively). PLS16-477 cored a relatively wide interval of graphitic gneisses at the top of bedrock which were only weakly altered. No anomalous radioactivity was intersected.

PLS16-482 (line 1215W) - Planned to further test the graphitic gneisses and moderate radioactivity recorded on the 2PGA-1000 gamma probe in PLSRC16-005 and 006 (1,223 and 1,207 cps, respectively). PLS16-482 cored moderately chlorite, clay and hematite altered graphitic gneisses at the top of bedrock but no anomalous radioactivity was detected. Based on the moderately anomalous gamma probe results in PLSRC16-005 and 006 further drill testing is still warranted in this area.

PLSRC16-005 (line 1185W) planned to test the graphitic gneisses and moderate uranium and boron anomalies (38 and 200 ppm, respectively) intersected in PLS15-390 up-dip. PLSRC16-005 intersected an apparently thick sequence of graphitic gneisses from the top of bedrock with corresponding moderately anomalous radioactivity recorded on the 2PGA-1000 gamma probe up to 1,223 cps.

PLSRC16-006 (line 1215W) planned to test the most graphitic and radioactive section of PLSRC16-005 further up-dip. Similar to PLSRC16-005, PLSRC16-006 intersected an apparently thick package of graphitic gneiss with moderately anomalous radioactivity on the 2PGA-1000 gamma probe, up to 1,207 cps.

PLG-3C Conductor Trend

PLS16-480 (line 1725E) planned to test a moderate radon in water anomaly which was offset from the PLV-3C VTEM conductor the same distance as mineralization found at R1620E. PLS16-480 intersected bedrock slightly too far north and only cored the northern edge of the graphitic gneiss corridor. Clay, chlorite and hematite alteration was generally moderate to strong throughout the drillhole until the north side semi-pelitic gneiss was reached. No anomalous radioactivity was intersected in the drillhole.

PLG-1B Conductor Trend

PLS16-453 (line 630W) was planned as the first of two step outs to the south of the strongly anomalous 2PGA-1000 gamma probe results in holes PLS15-419 and 425 (up to 7,965 and 4,168 cps, respectively). Drill hole PLS16-453 intersected intercalated variably graphitic semi-pelitic gneiss and sheared, faulted graphitic pelitic gneiss. The sheared, graphitic pelitic gneiss was found to be in approximately the correct location down dip of the anomalous gamma probe results, however the core was relatively unaltered and no significant radioactivity was intersected.

PLS16-457 (line 630W) was the second planned step out to the south of the anomalous radioactivity recorded on the 2PGA-1000 gamma probe in holes PLS16-419 and 425 (up to 7,965 and 4,168 cps, respectively). Similar to PLS16-453, PLS16-457 intersected intercalated variably graphitic semi-pelitic gneiss and sheared, faulted pelitic gneiss (although less structurally disturbed than the holes to the north). Strong hematite alteration occurred within a large fault zone hosted in semi-pelitic and graphitic pelitic gneiss but apart from that no other significant alteration or anomalous radioactivity was intersected.

PLG-1D Conductor Trend

PLS16-461 (line 4290E) planned to test the large, graphitic brittle fault (true thickness of approximately 13m) intersected in hole PLS15-323 up-dip near the top of bedrock. PLS16-461 likely was collared slightly too far to the northwest and only intersected the weakly chlorite and hematite altered north side orthogneiss which flanks the graphitic fault zone.

PLG-4A Conductor Trend

PLS16-467(line 390E) planned to test a lake bottom spectrometer anomaly off conductor near the southern shore of Patterson Lake. PLS16-467 dominantly cored mafic gneiss with minor semi-pelitic gneiss and a thin zone of graphitic mylonite. Strong alteration near the top of bedrock was interpreted to be remnant paleoweathering and no anomalous radioactivity was intersected.

FOREST LAKE CORRIDOR

---------------------------------------------------------------------------- (i) Hand-held Scintillometer Results On Mineralized Drillcore (greater than 300 cps / greater than 0.5M Collar minimum) -------------------------------------------------- CPS Grid From To Width Peak Hole ID Conductor Line Az Dip (m) (m) (m) Range ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-478 PLV-41D 2910W 184 -85.1 237.5 238.0 0.5 420 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Basement Total Lake Sandstone Unconformity Drillhole Depth From - To Depth Depth Hole ID (m) (m) (m) (m) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- PLS16-478 NA NA 124.8 404.0 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

PLS16-478 (line 2910W) planned to test a circular, well defined gravity low with a coincident EM conductor break. PLS16-478 intersected a thick, weakly altered orthogneiss interleaved with thin pegmatites which overlies a significant graphitic fault zone (true thickness estimated to be approximately 30m). Weak radioactivity was detected on the RS-121 hand scintillometer up to 420 cps located just before the graphitic fault zone in a coarse grained paragranofels.

Summary of Resource Growth and Zone Drilling for Winter 2016

-- Total of 27 holes with 25 mineralized for 93% success ratio for hitting mineralization -- R840W Zone - 7 holes -- New discovery for Winter 2016 -- Exploration drilling converted into zone discovery and initial delineation -- 7 core holes so far and all mineralized -- Strike length of 135m (960W to 825W) and open in all directions -- RC exploration drilling on line 915W discovered extension of the zone to the west -- R600W Zone - 7 holes -- All 7 holes mineralized -- Strike length expanded to 150m (705W to 555W) -- High-grade mineralization expanded to the east to line 555W -- R780E Zone - 6 holes -- All 6 holes mineralized -- PLS16-452 (360E) - extends high-grade zone updip approx. 20m from PLS13-086 -- PLS16-455 (510E) - extends high-grade zone updip approx. 15m from PLS14-209 -- PLS16-458 (1080E) - lateral expansion of zone by 15m north from PLS14-189 -- PLS16-463 (1080E) - expands and widens zone approx. 40m updip from PLS14-189 -- PLS16-471 (1110E) - expands and widens zone approx. 20m updip from PLS15-427 -- PLS16-475 (1140E) - expands zone updip approx. 25m from PLS15-435 -- R1620E Zone - 7 holes -- Significant upgrade to zone in W2016 with high-grade mineralization highlighted by hole 460 (1500E) -- 7 core holes drilled -- 5 mineralized and 2 barren -- Strike length of 225m (1395E to 1620E) defined by 10 mineralized holes

Natural gamma radiation in drill core that is reported in this news release was measured in counts per second (cps) using a hand held RS-121 Scintillometer manufactured by Radiation Solutions, which is capable of discriminating readings to 65,535 cps. Natural gamma radiation in the drill hole survey that is reported in this news release was measured in counts per second (cps) using a either a Mount Sopris 2GHF-1000 Triple Gamma probe or a Mount Sopris 2PGA-1000 Natural Gamma probe. The Triple Gamma probe allows for more accurate measurements in high grade mineralized zones, whereas the 2PGA-1000 Natural Gamma probe can be used for holes without high-grade mineralization. The reader is cautioned that scintillometer readings are not directly or uniformly related to uranium grades of the rock sample measured, and should be used only as a preliminary indication of the presence of radioactive materials. The degree of radioactivity within the mineralized intervals is highly variable and associated with visible pitchblende mineralization. All intersections are down-hole. All depths reported of core interval measurements including radioactivity and mineralization intervals widths are not always representative of true thickness and true thicknesses are yet to be determined in zones outside of the Triple R deposit. Within the Triple R deposit, individual zone wireframe models constructed from assay data and used in the resource estimate indicate that both the R780E and R00E zones have a complex geometry controlled by and parallel to steeply south-dipping lithological boundaries as well as a preferential sub-horizontal orientation.

Samples from the drill core will be split in half sections on site. Where possible, samples will be standardized at 0.5m down-hole intervals. One-half of the split sample will be sent to SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories (an SCC ISO/IEC 17025: 2005 Accredited Facility) in Saskatoon, SK for analysis which includes U3O8 (wt %) and fire assay for gold, while the other half will remain on site for reference. Analysis will include a 63 element ICP-OES, and boron.

PLS Mineralized Trend & Triple R Deposit Summary

Uranium mineralization at PLS occurs within the Patterson Lake Conductive Corridor and has been traced by core drilling approximately 2.58km of east-west strike length in five separated mineralized "zones". From west to east, these zones are: R840W, R600W, R00E, R780E and R1620E. Thus far only the R00E and R780E have been included in the Triple R deposit resource estimate.

The discovery hole of what is now referred to as the Triple R uranium deposit was announced on November 05, 2012 with drill hole PLS12-022, from what is considered part of the R00E zone. Through successful exploration programs completed to date, it has evolved into a large, near surface, basement hosted, structurally controlled high-grade uranium deposit.

The Triple R deposit consists of the R00E zone on the western side and the much larger R780E zone further on strike to the east. Within the deposit, the R00E and R780E zones have an overall combined strike length validated by a resource estimate of approximately 1.05km with the R00E measuring approximately 105m in strike length and the R780E zones measuring approximately 945m in strike length. A 225m gap separates the R00E zone to the west and the R780E zones to the east, though sporadic narrow, weakly mineralized intervals from drill holes within this gap suggest the potential for further significant mineralization in this area. The R780E zone is located beneath Patterson Lake which is approximately six metres deep in the area of the deposit. The entire Triple R deposit is covered by approximately 50m to 60m of overburden.

Mineralization remains open along strike both to the western and eastern extents. Mineralization is both located within and associated with a metasedimentary lithologic corridor, associated with the PL-3B basement Electro-Magnetic (EM) Conductor. Recent very positive drill results returning wide and strongly mineralized intersections from the R600W zone and the newly discovered R840W zone, located 480m and 765m respectively to the west along strike have significantly upgraded the prospectivity of these areas for further growth of the PLS resource on land to the west of the Triple R deposit. The recently discovered high-grade mineralization in the R1620E zone, located 300m to the east along strike has significantly upgraded the prospectivity for further growth of the PLS resource to the east of the Triple R deposit.

An updated map can be found on the Company's website at http://fissionuranium.com/project/pls/.

Patterson Lake South Property

The 31,039 hectare PLS project is 100% owned and operated by Fission Uranium Corp. PLS is accessible by road with primary access from all-weather Highway 955, which runs north to the former Cluff Lake mine and passes through the nearby UEX-Areva Shea Creek discoveries located 50km to the north, currently under active exploration and development.

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed on behalf of the company by Ross McElroy, P.Geol., President and COO for Fission Uranium Corp., a qualified person.

About Fission Uranium Corp.

Fission Uranium Corp. is a Canadian based resource company specializing in the strategic exploration and development of the Patterson Lake South uranium property - host to the class-leading Triple R uranium deposit - and is headquartered in Kelowna, British Columbia. Fission's common shares are listed on the TSX Exchange under the symbol "FCU" and trade on the OTCQX marketplace in the U.S. under the symbol "FCUUF."

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Ross McElroy, President and COO

Cautionary Statement:

Certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information", within the meaning of Canadian legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur", "be achieved" or "has the potential to". Forward looking statements contained in this press release may include statements regarding the future operating or financial performance of Fission and Fission Uranium which involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and outcomes may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in these forward-looking statements. Such statements are qualified in their entirety by the inherent risks and uncertainties surrounding future expectations. Among those factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: market conditions and other risk factors listed from time to time in our reports filed with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company and Fission Uranium disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

Contacts:

Fission Uranium Corp.

Rich Matthews

Investor Relations

TF: 877-868-8140

rich@fissionuranium.com

www.fissionuranium.com




LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND--(Marketwired - March 28, 2016) - Kandou Bus announced today that their Glasswing' chip-to-chip link technology has been licensed by Marvell Technology Group for use in a variety of future multi-chip products. Based on Kandou's CNRZ-5 Chord' signaling architecture, Glasswing delivers high bandwidth signaling at very low power and is ideally suited for short links inside and outside a package. Glasswing is the world's first SerDes proven in silicon that is capable of delivering 1Tbps bandwidth at <1 watt, paving the way for fundamental architectural shifts in power savings in devices ranging from cell phones to enterprise and high-performance computing platforms.

"Marvell provides a wide variety of world-class consumer and enterprise silicon solutions and we are excited to collaborate with them to realize the capabilities of our Chord signaling technology," said Amin Shokrollahi, Founder and CEO of Kandou. "Marvell's leadership in low-power, complex system-on-chip design architecture and its system-level expertise are well known. Marvell and Kandou share a vision to provide system architects unprecedented flexibility to optimize for performance, power, signal integrity and cost."

"We are very proud of this collaboration and believe that our work with Kandou further reflects our leadership in chip design," said Dr. Zining Wu, Chief Technology Officer at Marvell Semiconductor, Inc. "Glasswing provides a high-speed interconnect with ultra-low power consumption that is ideal for our products. Glasswing's technology is designed to enable the combination of multiple chips in a single package or multiple packages and provide an optimal mix of die in different process nodes, helping to usher in the new era of silicon photonics."

The version of Chord signaling employed in Glasswing, called CNRZ-5 coding, delivers 5 bits over 6 correlated wires for a total bandwidth of 125Gbps per channel. Total link power consumption of Glasswing built in TSMC's 16nmFF foundry process is about 700 femtojoules/bit. The link achieves a BER of < 10 -15 or better at the targeted data rate of 25GBaud.

About Kandou Bus S.A.

Bandwidth and power challenges for next-generation links are being addressed by the industry's leading standards development organizations such as the OIF, IEEE and JEDEC. Kandou advocates for industry standards, contributing its technology and support via membership and board positions within these organizations.

Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland and founded in 2011, Kandou Bus is an innovative interface technology company specializing in the invention, design, license and implementation of industry leading chip-to-chip link solutions. Kandou's Chord' signaling is a disruptive interconnect technology that lowers the power consumption and improves the performance of semiconductors, unlocking new capabilities in electronic devices and systems. http://www.kandou.com.

Chord and Glasswing are trademarks of Kandou Bus.

Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/3/28/11G089235/Images/mw_kandou-65f4fb1eb90bbc58b8515648dcfdb356.jpg

Press Contact:

Jeff McGuire

VP Business Development

303-903-9244

jeff@kandou.com
CHARLOTTE, NC -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- The Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE) recently released the "The Impact of Innovation: Charlotte Entrepreneur Growth Report," the first in-depth study of the state of entrepreneurship and innovation in the market -- and Charlotte's position in comparison to competitive cities. This Growth Report is representative of the initiatives that the CFRE, along with other stakeholders of Charlotte's entrepreneurial community, will invest in to advance the regional ecosystem. The analysis of data sources highlighted Charlotte metro strengths and national rankings while uncovering significant shortcomings for action. A complete presentation of the report findings will be presented formally to the Charlotte City Council tonight, Monday, March 28 at 5:30 p.m. at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.

The survey of companies revealed substantial revenue and employment growth among ventures that compete effectively in national and global markets. The companies participating in the report collectively represent anticipated revenue of $1.3 billion in 2015 and projected full-time employment of 2,350. More importantly, in aggregate, they rank between publicly-traded Piedmont Natural Gas and Coca-Cola Bottling Consolidated. Among those participating, the CRFE profiled seven successful Charlotte area companies to showcase the innovation sector in the region. These companies included AccruePartners, AvidXchange, InfoSense, Passport, Peak 10, SQL Sentry and T1V.

"We are honored to be featured in the Charlotte Entrepreneur Growth Report for 2015. With three years of record growth at AvidXchange, as well as the addition of IT jobs citywide, we believe that the technology sector is taking hold in Charlotte," commented Michael Praeger, CEO and Co-founder of AvidXchange. "With additional talent fueling our innovation, service and support for invoice and payment automation, we are anxious to see 2016 unfold."

Additionally, the Growth Report measured outcomes and expectations for area entrepreneurs, providing insight into the technology trends that evaluated Charlotte in comparison to other metropolitan areas such as Atlanta, Austin and San Francisco. Through this analysis, the CRFE has established benchmarks that will allow further tracking of the success of investments in the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem, helping Charlotte become a hub where high growth entrepreneurial companies thrive.

Key findings of the Growth Report include:

Charlotte ranked as 25th in the nation's 40 largest markets by the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurship, measuring overall startup activity.

The surveyed companies experienced a 23% average revenue growth rate in 2014 and an expected revenue growth rate of 44% in 2015.

Those same companies expect 23% employment growth in 2015, which could result in over 600 new jobs. Moreover, the compensation for these jobs is significantly higher than the Charlotte metro average, and the compensation increases as the companies become more mature.

Charlotte's technology innovation potential is limited, with innovation capacity activities such as research funding and patents below the average metropolitan benchmark.

Charlotte's overall startup activity is below the benchmark average for other metropolitan cities.

Charlotte significantly lagged all cities benchmarked in the study for venture capital investment between 2011 and 2014.

Strong support for the importance of entrepreneurs to Charlotte's economic vitality was identified in the community survey of the general population.

"We are pleased with the outcome of this study and report," said David Jones, Chairman and CEO of Peak 10, a Charlotte-headquartered IT infrastructure and cloud solutions provider, and a longtime member and advisor to BIG. "It showcases the significant milestones that Charlotte's high-growth entrepreneurial companies have achieved while also indicating the challenges in our region with regard to entrepreneurial growth. Having this data provides us with groundwork for innovation and finding ways to improve."

Jones adds, "We never anticipated an immediate solution from this study and its results, as growth takes work and focus over time. I believe that Charlotte will build on its entrepreneurial successes and deal head-on with the challenges."

Additionally, the CRFE board and City of Charlotte staff will facilitate a one-day Solution Design Sprint to engage a diverse group of stakeholders in crafting a strategic action plan to move forward, based on the findings from the report. The workshop date is Friday, April 22. For more information, contact Holly Eskridge at heskridge@ci.charlotte.nc.us.

The Charlotte Entrepreneur Growth Report was created through research and surveys led by Ventureprise in collaboration with the Business Innovation & Growth Council and the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute. For more information and access to the full report, visit www.ui.uncc.edu/data/partner/cegr. For inquiries concerning report content or use, contact Ventureprise at info@ventureprise.org or 704.687.0900.

About The Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE)

The Charlotte Regional Fund for Entrepreneurship (CRFE) is a new entrepreneurial initiative spearheaded by the City of Charlotte and administered by Foundation for the Carolinas. Its purpose is to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem, support increased innovation, improve development of high-growth entrepreneurs, and ultimately increase job creation. CRFE will make investments to support organizations and initiatives that cultivate high-growth, entrepreneurial and innovative enterprises while creating economic wealth in the Charlotte region. For more information, visit www.charlotteentrepreneur.org.

About Ventureprise

Ventureprise, Inc. is a venture development organization that supports the commercial success of early-stage, innovation driven entrepreneurs. Through ready-for-business office space located on the campus of UNC Charlotte and comprehensive programs, Ventureprise offers the premier location for inventors, researchers and innovators to come together for business success. With the help of Ventureprise, university researchers and entrepreneurial companies access resources they need to accomplish rapid business growth through a supportive ecosystem made up of community resources, academia and corporations. For more information, visit www.ventureprise.org.

About Business Innovation & Growth Council (BIG)

BIG is a non-profit membership organization, founded in 2006, comprised of like-minded high growth entrepreneurial companies in this region who share similar challenges in growing their businesses. BIG provides education, content, and best practices for a growth oriented company as well as access to resources and capital. The value of BIG is the peer-to-peer exchange that develops from being in the group. For more information, visit www.bigcouncil.com.

About the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute

The institute is a nonpartisan, applied research and community outreach center at UNC Charlotte. Founded in 1969, it provides services including technical assistance and training in operations and data management; public opinion surveys; and research and analysis around economic, environmental, and social issues affecting the Charlotte region. The institute is part of UNC Charlotte's Metropolitan Studies and Extended Academic Programs, which includes a number of the university's community engagement initiatives. For more on UNC Charlotte Urban Institute, see www.ui.uncc.edu.

Contact:

Terry Cox

B.I.G. Council

704.927.8064

Email Contact



Kaitlin Sheppard

FleishmanHillard

704.421.9606

Email Contact




TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- Eurotin Inc. ("Eurotin" or the "Company") (TSX VENTURE: TIN) is pleased to announce that, further to a press release dated January 20, 2016, the Company has issued 10,386,665 common shares (the "Common Shares"), at a price of $0.15 per Common Share, to certain debtholders of the Company, including Mark Wellings, President, Chief Executive and a director of Eurotin (the "Shares for Debt Transaction"). The balance of the Common Shares was issued to arm's length service providers for amounts owing to them for services previously provided to the Company. All of the Common Shares issued are subject to a four month plus one day hold period from the date of issuance.

As part of the Shares for Debt Transaction, Mr. Wellings was issued 8,000,000 Common Shares, making him a "Control Person" (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) of the Company. Mr. Wellings now holds, directly and indirectly, 37.68% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares (on a non-diluted basis). Disinterested shareholders of the Company approved the establishment of Mr. Wellings as a Control Person of the Company at the annual general and special meeting of shareholders held on February 24, 2016.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contacts:

Eurotin Inc.

Carlos Pinglo

CFO

416-648-1626

www.eurotin.ca




BUDA, TX -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- Kickfurther, a leading inventory and purchase order financing crowd-funding platform that connects companies and backers seeking qualified short-term deal financing, announced today it has partnered with Company 19 LLC, a company that specializes in developing superbly crafted products, to finance their inventory of a new Deluxe version of the original Basecamp 3-in-1 Apple Watch Charging Station, on the Kickfurther crowd-funding platform.

The original Basecamp Dock was released in December 2015, and has been a huge success. The compact charging station allows users to charge 3 IOS Devices in one convenient location without clutter or hanging cables. Based on that success and incorporating customer desires and suggestions, a new deluxe version is about to be released in North America and the UK. The new Deluxe Version of Basecamp has a fourth USB port and a built-in bluetooth speaker, a special spring-loaded screw that adjusts to fit any case size, and the ability to put the watch in nightstand mode. Its own power makes it independent of your computer or USB wall plug. This inventory financing will help expand their product into Canada and Europe with the introduction of the new version of Basecamp.

Company 19's inventory offering goal is to raise $151,813 USD before the funding close date of April 10, 2016. They are offering 14% profit to their backers over a projected 9-month term. This is Company 19's second campaign with Kickfurther, after paying back their original offer nearly two months early.

Click here to see Company 19's offering on Kickfurther.

About Kickfurther

Kickfurther is a leading inventory and invoice financing crowd-funding platform that connects companies with backers seeking qualified short-term deal financing. The platform enables consumer product companies seeking capital to finance growth in production, by sharing their sales opportunities with backers interested to put their money to work in short term profit opportunities in the retail supply chain.

Businesses post offers by choosing the amount of inventory capital they need, the profit percentage backers will earn, and a projected timeline based on sales history. Since its 2015 launch, Kickfurther has funded more than $5.21 Million in 230 offers by more than 170 companies. Their backers have earned an average greater than 2% consignment profit per month on completed offers.

For additional information, please visit www.Kickfurther.com

About Company 19 LLC

Company 19 is located in Buda, Texas, located between Austin and San Antonio. Founded in 2012, the company specializes in developing superbly crafted products that enhance and beautify your life and environment. Company 19 sells physical products through online sales channels such as Amazon.com and in independent and chain retail stores. The company's products are at the higher end of craftsmanship and quality in each brand category they serve. Their brands include iNZeyo Labs, Wag Haus, YouActive Sports, Geoff the Chef and iLuminate.

For additional information, please visit: www.companynineteen.com

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WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Synaptics Inc. (SYNA) announced the company, Shenzhen Huiding Technology Co., Ltd. and Goodix Technology, Inc., have entered into a settlement that dismisses all pending litigation in the United States International Trade Commission and the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The settlement also dismisses all pending administrative actions between the parties, including inter-parties review proceedings before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the invalidity review proceeding in China. 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.
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Defense and security products provider Arotech Corp. (ARTX) and its largest stockholder Ephraim Fields of Echo Lake Capital Monday said they have agreed to settle their pending proxy contest. As per the agreement, Lawrence Hagenbuch, a nominee on Fields's proposed slate of directors, has joined Arotech's Board as a Class II director, and has been appointed to Arotech's Compensation, Nominating, and Executive and Finance Committees. Jay Eastman has stepped down from the Board. Arotech and Admiralty Partners, Inc. have agreed to shorten their voting agreement by one year. Fields will withdraw his director nominees and will vote for the election of the slate of directors that will be nominated by Arotech at the 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. A copy of the Agreement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Jon Kutler, lead independent director of Arotech, also endorsed the settlement, noting that 'This resolution will enable management to focus on running Arotech's business and pursuing the best interests of Arotech, its stockholders, employees and customers.' 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.
According to the latest market study released by Technavio, the global naval combat systems marketis projected to reach USD 41.37 billion by 2020, growing at a CAGR of nearly 3%.

This research report titled 'Global Naval Combat Systems Market 2016-2020' provides an in-depth analysis of the market in terms of revenue and emerging market trends. This market research report also includes up to date analysis and forecasts for various market segments and all geographical regions.

Request sample report: http://goo.gl/s4z9SA

The global naval combat systems market is segmented into three different systems:

C4ISR

Electronic warfare (EW)

Weapon

Global naval weapon systems market

In 2014, the weapon systems accounted for the largest share of 45.38% in the market. Growth in this market will be driven by extensive procurement of anti-ship missile defense systems and man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) by combat ships, which will attract new investments in the market during the forecast period.

In 2015, BAE Systems, a major vendor in the market, signed a contract worth USD 130 million with the US Navy to overhaul and upgrade six MK-45 naval gun systems for the US Navy Destroyer class (DDG) ships. The MK-45 naval gun system is an effective weapon for anti-surface, strike, fire support, and anti-air warfare combat. "During the same period, BAE Systems signed another contract worth USD 146.7 million with the US Navy to provide engineering and technical support to the US Navy combat and communications systems for the next five years," says Abhay Singh, a lead analyst at Technavio for the defense sector.

Similarly, in 2014, Raytheon, a major vendor in the market, signed a contract worth USD 205 million with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) to provide upgrade kits, support equipment, and hardware spares for computer-controlled radar and gun maritime defense systems.

Global naval C4ISR systems market

In 2014, C4ISR systems accounted for a 28.61% share of the market. During the same year, the US had 20 aircraft carriers and 72 submarines, whereas, Asian countries such as North Korea, China, Iran, Japan, India, and South Korea together had 213 submarines. In the same year, Russia had four aircraft carriers and 55 submarines. A large number of submarines and aircraft carriers aid in C4ISR operations, and will result in high investments in the market during the forecast period.

In 2015, M.C. Dean, a prominent vendor in the market, signed a contract worth USD 853.7 million with the US Navy for the installation and operational certification of C4ISR systems on naval vessels. "During the same year, Serco, another prominent vendor, signed a nine-month contract worth USD 13 million with the US Navy to replace old C4ISR systems with new ones on naval vessels," adds Abhay.

Global naval EW systems market

In 2014, EW systems accounted for a 26.01% share of the market. During the same year, Asian countries such as North Korea, China, and Iran had over 2,100 naval ships as compared to the US, which had 473 vessels. In the same year, Russia had a naval force comprising of 352 ships. Similarly, India, which is expanding its naval strength and power, had 202 vessels. A large number of these ships will result in high investments in the EW systems market during the forecast period.

In 2015, Lockheed Martin, a major vendor of the market, signed a contract worth USD 153.9 million with the US Navy for the modification of Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block 2 EW systems on surface ships. Under the contract, the vendor will also upgrade AN/SLQ-32 systems on the US Navy aircraft carriers, cruisers, and destroyers.

The top vendors highlighted by Technavio's research analysts in this report are:

BAE Systems

IMI

Lockheed Martin

Raytheon

Thales

Browse Related Reports:

Unmanned Ground Vehicle Market Global Analysis, Market Shares, Forecast 2015-2019

Global Military Electro-optical and Infrared Systems Market 2015-2019

Global Offshore Patrol Vessel Market 2015-2019

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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.

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LOWELL, MA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- Viatar CTC Solutions, Inc. (OTCQB: VRTT), the cancer dialysis company, today filed its annual report on Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The filing no longer contains a "going concern" qualification from the Company's auditors.

Viatar also announced that the $4.2 million Series B preferred stock financing announced on February 29, 2016 has now been fully funded.

"With the full funding of our $4.2 million financing Viatar has greatly strengthened its capital position; and the independent auditor's report on our financial statements for 2015 does not include the 'going concern' qualification which is typical for startup companies," said Ilan Reich, Chairman and CEO of Viatar. "The completion of this financing provides us with the funding that will enable us to complete the significant engineering, manufacturing and regulatory compliance tasks in order to obtain CE Mark approval. We project commercialization of our Therapeutic Oncopheresis System in Europe and Canada in 2017. We are also pursuing the FDA approval process on a parallel track. Viatar is now firmly on the path to commercialization next year and improving the outcomes for overall survival for a wide range of solid tumor cancers."

About Viatar CTC Solutions

Viatar CTC Solutions Inc., the cancer dialysis company, is a medical technology company focused on the treatment of patients with metastatic cancer. The company's lead product, the Viatar Therapeutic Oncopheresis System, removes circulating tumor cells from whole blood using size and deformation based cross-flow filtration. Pending regulatory approval targeted for 2017, it will be used as a periodic therapy to improve overall survival for a wide range of solid tumor types such as lung, breast, colon, prostate and gastric cancers. This proprietary technology also powers the company's liquid biopsy products, which are collection systems for use by genetic testing companies, researchers and medical oncologists that provide a greater quantity and purity of circulating tumor cells for their molecular analysis and personalized medicine objectives.

Forward Looking Statements

Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained herein are based on current expectations, but are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The factors that could cause actual future results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's ability to develop, market and sell products based on its technology; the expected benefits and efficacy of the Company's products and technology; the availability of substantial additional funding for the Company to continue its operations and to conduct research and development, clinical studies and future product commercialization; and, the Company's business, research, product development, regulatory approval, marketing and distribution plans and strategies. These and other factors are identified and described in more detail in the Company's filings with the SEC.

For More Information:

For Viatar CTC Solutions:

Ilan Reich

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ilan.reich@viatarctcsolutions.com



Investor Contacts:

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HONG KONG (dpa-AFX) - Japan is scheduled to release a batch of data on Tuesday, setting the pace for Asia-Pacific economic activity. On tap are February figures for unemployment, household spending and retail sales, plus March results for small business confidence. The jobless rate is expected to hold steady at 3.2 percent, while the job-to-applicant ratio is called at 1.29 - up from 1.28 in January. Household spending is tipped to sink 1.9 percent on year after sliding 3.1 percent in the previous month. Retail sales are expected to fall 0.9 percent on month and rise 1.6 percent on year after shedding 0.4 percent on month and 0.2 percent on year in January. Large retailer sales are called higher by an annual 1.6 percent after gaining 0.9 percent in the previous month. The small business confidence index is expected to show a score of 49.0, up from 47.9 in February. Hong Kong will release February data for imports, exports and trade balance. Imports are expected to fall 8.0 percent on year after losing 9.0 percent in January. Exports are called lower by 4.5 percent after slipping 3.7 percent in the previous month. The trade deficit if pegged at 30.7 billion Hong Kong dollars - down from the 17.5 billion HKD shortfall a month earlier. Singapore will see February numbers for producer prices; in January, prices were down 2.4 percent on month and 6.6 percent on year. 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.
AppDirect, a San Francisco, CA-based cloud service commerce provider, acquired Xendo, a provider of hosted enterprise search.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

Led by Daniel Saks, AppDirect provides a cloud service commerce platform that allows businesses to find, buy, manage and monitor cloud services from a central location. Led by Julian Gay, CEO, Xendo offers cloud-based unified search across 30 different cloud and on-premise apps to allow business users to find content across the various cloud services they use every day. The service integrates with organizations IT security infrastructure. Customers include Netflix, Looker and Alphabet-owned Intersection.

Through the acquisition, Xendo will continue to operate independently but will now also be offered as a standalone app in the AppDirect Network for partners to sell to their business customers. It will also be integrated into the core AppDirect platform as part of upcoming cloud management initiatives that will enable businesses to manage, monitor and use their cloud services more effectively with unified search capabilities.

Additionally, Xendos core technology will provide data and intelligent search capabilities for enterprises to enhance connections between employees and business-critical information.

FinSMEs

28/03/2016
Emulate, Inc., a Cambridge, MA-based maker of living products for understanding how diseases, medicines, chemicals, and foods affect human health, raised $28m in Series B financing.

Backers included existing investors Hansjorg Wyss, NanoDimension and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, as well as new investors OS Fund; Atel Ventures; ALS Finding a Cure, a program of the Leandro P. Rizzuto Foundation; and a fourth new unnamed investor.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate its R&D effort, expedite the launch of its products and expand strategic relationships with industry and academic partners. The proceeds will be used to advance its product design and development across a range of activities, including: the launch of the Human Emulation System as an automated product suite that includes Organ-Chips, instrumentation hardware, and software applications, expansion of the Organ-Chip portfolio to extend beyond the lung, liver, intestine, and skin for additional organs such as kidney, heart, and brain, acceleration of disease-state applications for Organ-Chips, to gain further understanding of mechanisms of diseases in key areas of focus for industry  including neurodegenerative diseases, oncology, intestinal diseases and the microbiome, and infectious diseases.

Led by James Coon, Chief Executive Officer, and Geraldine A. Hamilton, Ph.D., President and Chief Scientific Officer, Emulate has developed proprietary Organs-on-Chips technology which places living human cells in microengineered environments and provides a window into the inner-workings of the body to predict human response to medicines, chemicals and diseases.

FinSMEs

28/03/2016
Kollecto, Detroit, MI-based startup the describes itself as Pandora for affordable art, received a $100k award.

The Innovation Fund Macomb Community College*, powered by JPMorgan Chase & Co., provided the award.

Kollecto employs web scraping technology to identify art from galleries around the world and provides personalized recommendations for the purchase of affordable art, typically in the $200  $3,000 range.

With users in nearly 300 cities worldwide, the company also manages the purchase of the artwork and offers installment payment plans.

*The Innovation Fund is a $2.7m effort to stimulate economic development and job growth among promising Detroit-area entrepreneurs and next-stage companies with high-growth potential. Support is provided by Macomb Community Colleges Strategic Fund and JPMorgan Chase, as part of the companys $100m commitment to Detroits economic recovery.

FinSMEs

28/03/2016
RSK Labs, a Buenos Aires, Argentina-based company behind a smart contracts platform, completed a $1m initial seed funding round.

The round was led by Bitmain Technology, a bitcoin hardware mining producer, Coinsilium, a blockchain investment firm based in London, and Digital Currency Group, a New York-based investor.

The company intends to use the funds to further develop the platform secured by Bitcoin and compatible with Ethereum and to expand its presence in Latin America to Asia, Europe and US.

Co-founded in 2015 by Sergio Lerner, Chief Scientist Officer, and Diego Gutierrez Zaldivar, Chief Executive Officer, RSK Labs is the company behind RootStock, a smart contract platform with a 2way peg to the Bitcoin Blockchain.

RSK private testnet will be opened by the end of April to a small number of miners, partner companies and users. During the following months, wallets, block explorers and further enhancements to the network will be implemented by the company and its partners. A functional Beta testnet is expected to be launched in September 2016.

FinSMEs

28/03/2016
Venus Medtech (Hangzhou) Inc., a Hangzhou, China-based transcatheter cardiac valve developer, received a $37m investment from Goldman Sachs.

The amount of the deal was not disclosed.

The investment will support the companys R&D as well as commercialization of cardiac valve products.

Led by General Manager Zi Zhenjun, Venus Medtech has developed the Venus A-Valve, with independent intellectual property rights, a transcatheter aortic valve solution meeting China Food and Drug Administration clinical requirement.

In addition to Venus A-Valve, the company is advancing the transcatheter pulmonary artery valve, Venus P-Valve, which has also entered clinical stage. Venus P-Valve is designed for interventional therapy for patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation following surgery to repair Tetralogy of Fallot. Enrollment of patients for a clinical trial is nearly completed.

Venus Medtech plans to start patient enrollment for a pending EU approval-oriented clinical research program in the first half of 2016.

The company is also backed by Qiming Venture Partners, Sequoia Capital China, and Dinova Venture Capital.

FinSMEs

28/03/2016
By Janaki Murali

The Tasveer Foundations proposed adoption of Bengalurus renowned Venkatappa Art Gallery (VAG) has snowballed into a controversy, with the citys intelligentsia finding themselves on opposing sides of the debate.

On one side is a group of 300 or so artists, writers and theatre persons, who are protesting the adoption plans. There is another group, also comprising artists, writers and theatre persons, supporting the plans, saying it would do a lot of good for the gallery, even waxing eloquent on social media.

Interestingly enough, these are people who have often joined hands to lead several civil protests and marches on the streets of Bengaluru. For instance, both sides marched together to protest the state governments plans of demolishing the majestic 19th century Balabrooie Guest House and turn it into a legislators club. But the citys intelligentsia got the government to retract the plan and saved the building.

They have now turned their attention to the 40-year-old VAG, part of the three museum complex which also comprises the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (VITM) and the Government Museum, Bangalore.

When the takeover plans were revealed in the Legislative Assembly, opposition parties accused the government of land grab. The Kannada and culture ministry shot off a missive to the tourism ministry, saying the VAG came under its purview and not under the tourism ministrys.

Entrance to the VAG is through the Government Museum, a breathtakingly beautiful Bengaluru landmark, often mistaken for the VAG. A ticket for the government museum costs Rs 4, which includes entry to the VAG as well. Strolling through the museums lets one look at the VAG and the serene Lotus ponds, an enjoyable lazy morning art experience. Perhaps you will see works of a young artist or two in the gallery above and pick up a cool bargain. You may also choose to end your tour sitting on some quaint benches on the beautiful lawns and gaze at more sculptures as you nibble through a set-dosa and filter coffee.

Will this cultural experience change once the VAG is handed over to the Tasveer Foundation? Will this quaint old building, intrinsic to the feel of Bengaluru, be demolished to make way for a glass and chrome monolith? In trying to get to the bottom of the controversy, Firstpost talked to some of the prominent players.

Tasveer Foundation head Abhishek Poddar sidestepped our questions, saying, Thanks for your mail and questions. Since you have read my piece on Facebook, a lot of your questions will be answered there itself.

So lets see what Poddar says on his Facebook wall. On 14 March, 2016, Poddar put up a post titled, Why plans for a new museum in Bangalore put the public first. In this, he writes, The proposed redevelopment of VAG is a significant step forward for Bangalore to have a modern museum facility. At the centre of our plans is the belief that art should be for everyone, and to create an inclusive, accessible space to rejuvenate interest in art and culture. We want the citizens of Bangalore, and the large number of tourists it attracts, to make this new museum a must visit site and an artistic hub of activity for people of all ages and from all walks of life.

The project, which has the full support of the government, is well thought out and in the larger public interest with strong governance in place. We are bringing in expertise, thought and funding to improve the approach to museums, exhibition programming and education in the visual arts in Karnataka, and are dedicated to building a new, broader, more democratic and inclusive audience for art, he added.

Poddar followed up his signed blogpost with a detailed note outlining the Tasveer Foundations plans for the new public museum.

However, not everybody is agreeing with his vision. Well known sculptor Balan Nambiar, who is supporting the VAG Forum, says their stand is correct. The government has made a mess of the whole situation. The tourism department wants to hand over the VAG to a private party whose aim is to make profit. Abhishek Poddar is an art dealer rather than a patron of art. He would not be interested in this deal unless he is sure of making money. No Karnataka artist will ever get a chance to exhibit his/her works at the VAG if it goes to Poddar. He will convert the VAG as an outlet to market his acquired works of art. Most of the areas of the building will be used to exhibit his personal collection, which are meant for sale. All of it is dubious. There is no guarantee that the collection of Venkatappa and Hebbar would be displayed all the time, Nambiar said.

Poddars aim would be to attract the elitists and corporate clients. For example, for every exhibition opening at his Tasveer Photo Gallery and his showroom Cinnamon, only a couple of artists from Bangalore are invited. He usually tends to invite corporate personalities, Nambiar added.

The tourism department had started an Adopt a tourist destination drive in 2014, under which it had put up 46 tourism sites for adoption. Of these, six, including the VAG, were picked up by private entities. This came about a year after the Karnataka Tourism Vision Group (KTVG) was set up by the state government. Comprising about 50 members, the group met for seven sessions over two months and put together a report, compiled by writer Vikram Sampath. Among the KTVGs recommendations was that a museum district be set up around the citys famous Cubbon Park, to be managed by the Cubbon Park Management Authority (CPMA).

The CPMA was to become an autonomous body with representation from various Cubbon Park stakeholders, including the departments of horticulture, Kannada & culture, archaeology, Bal Bhavan, high court, museums, the private sector as well as civil society members.

Among the KTVGs recommendations were that CPMA be given a master plan prepared through an international bidding process, which would help develop Cubbon Park as a state-of-the-art urban park, restoring all heritage buildings housed within and putting them to adaptive re-use (for example, as museums). The CPMA would work on a self-sustainable model (with initial /annual grants from the state government) and be built along the lines of English Heritage/National Trust in the UK.

V Ravichander, co-chair of KTVG, said, KTVG played no role in suggesting the adoption of VAG. The adoption programme under corporate social responsibility (CSR) was conceived by the Karanataka governments tourism ministry. KTVG welcomed it once it became the official policy of the government, and approached corporates and foundations to let them know about the adoption programme. The reality is that there arent donors queuing up showing interest; the properties adopted had only one suitor though over 100 firms were approached.

Caught at the wrong end of the adoption controversy, well-known sculptor and painter SG Vasudev, who was accused of being a member of KTVG and party to the adoption plan, instead offered up an alternate model for the development of VAG. It involves the setting up of a trust to manage and run VAG in public interest. The trustees could be a combination of government representatives, artists and also the general public, including historians, art critics and collectors. The government would support the trust with funds but resources (financial and otherwise) would be sought from other sources, including donations. The trust would administer the institution by engaging various people necessary to look after different aspects of the task, including an art director, curators, etc. The trust could also set up a society like Friends of VAG, which could provide different kinds of assistance. This model has enabled a number of art museums and galleries in different parts of the world to sustain themselves while retaining their public character. I think it could be explored here as well.

And while the jury is still out on the VAG adoption controversy, what is obvious to any ordinary visitor to the museums is that they both need urgent repairs. There is water seepage on the walls and some of the paintings and sculptures need restoration. However, neither the VAG nor the government museum has a heritage tag. Being adopted could result in some funds, says Ravichander. Karnataka doesnt have a Heritage Act. There are no private listings of heritage buildings by organisations like the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. To the best of my knowledge, VAG isnt on that list, he said.

Interestingly, VITM and the Government Museum, also in the same complex, were also put up for adoption under the same policy. Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, who was keen to adopt VITM as a part of her companys CSR agenda, backed out after museum authorities turned it down.

MK Panduranga Setty, a member of the museums executive committee, was reported by Bangalore Mirror as saying, We will not allow commercialisation of this museum. (It) doesnt belong to the state government and it is very well maintained. We dont want private participation. Let the government focus on developing other tourist spots and leave the VITM alone.

The Government Museum, the most photographed of the three museums, has been adopted by Jindal Steel Works. Now, will there be another protest over this? Thats another battle for another day.
Coimbatore: An outfit of backward Thevar caste here has alleged the recent suspected honour killing of a Dalit youth in neighbouring Tirupur district was being used by certain parties to tarnish the image of the community and urged police to rein such elements.

In a memorandum to police, more than 100 members belonging to the Thevar community alleged that "the issue between two families" was being used to take political advantage by VCK leader Thol Thirumavalavan, Puthiya Tamizhakam leader K Krishnasamy and another Dalit outfit leader John Pandian, through public meetings. Besides, they were using abusive language against the community which was "unwarranted", said the two-page memorandum submitted by the "Thevar Samudayam."

Accusing the police of remaining a mute spectator during such public meetings, it urged them to ensure that such denigrating remarks were not made against the caste.

It also warned of state-wide agitations, if political leaders attempted to give caste colour to such issues. Shankar was hacked to death on 13 March by a four-member gang at a bus stand in Udumalpet while his wife Kausalya, a Caste Hindu girl, escaped with injuries.

The attack, allegedly carried out at the behest of her father, was suspected to be a honour killing and has drawn widespread condemnation.

PTI
New Delhi: In a bid to prevent brain drain, the government has embarked upon a scheme to fund pure science scholars, who have completed their PhDs, to enable them continue their post-doctoral research in India. According to Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology, the scholars would be paid Rs 50,000 per month for the period of three years and would also be given a basic grant of Rs 7 lakhs per year for conducting research.

The National Post Doctoral Fellowship was launched a month ago and would fund around 1000 scholars this year. Applications have also been invited for the same, he said. "We have found that the scholars are more vulnerable to go abroad after their PhD degree because this is the time they don't get full-time employment since many institutes ask for a post-doctoral degree. There are many universities and institutes abroad that offer the PhDs graduates with post-doctoral opportunities. This is why we have embarked upon this scheme," Sharma said.

"Once they get a post-doctoral fellowship in India for three-years, they can continue with their research and get prepared for a job in Indian institutes and universities. Once they bag a job, the chances of their going abroad is less," he said.

Incidentally, the Ministry of Science and Technology does not have a data of how many research scholars have left India and are currently working abroad. "There are two reasons behind it. It is difficult to track the students who leave India for studies at different levels (say, under-graduate, graduate and post-graduate).

More importantly, there is also no tracking of students coming back. "Secondly, neither the Ministry of Home Affairs or the Ministry of External Affairs have maintained data related to this," said a senior ministry official. Sharma said for bagging this fellowship the scholar has to send a research proposal. It is also mandatory that the university/ institute in which he wants to do research has to accept the proposal.

PTI
India shared the evidence it has collected on the Pathankot attack with Pakistan on Monday after the two countries began formal discussions on investigations into January's terror attack at the Indian Air Force base, making it the first-ever visit of a Joint Investigation Team (JIT)  that included an ISI official  from the neighbouring country.

According to CNN-IBN, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) showed the JIT the evidence that proves the Pakistani establishment was complicit in the attack. It also gave the phone numbers to which terrorists made calls. However, the JIT has asked permission to interrogate the commander of the IAF air base, asked for call details of the Punjab officer Salwinder Singh who was purportedly abducted by the terrorists, copies of all FIRs registered in connection with the case, and the mobile phones recovered from the terrorists.

Sources told CNN-IBN that India is unlikely to hand over the handsets.

The five-member Pakistani JIT is headed by Chief of Punjab's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahore's Deputy Director General, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) official Lieutenant-Colonel Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lieutenant-Colonel Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer, Shahid Tanveer.

The team was received at the headquarters of National Investigation Agency by Inspector-General Sanjiv Kumar Singh.

The Pakistanis are being given a detailed presentation on the probe done by Indian agencies so far and evidences that show that the attack was planned in Pakistan, official sources said.

The team, that arrived on Sunday, will on Tuesday visit Pathankot for the probe into the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group on 2 January, which left seven security personnel dead.

The IAF base will be visually barricaded by NIA to prevent any view of critical areas.

The NIA team will however, show some of the areas where the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists engaged in an 80-hour-long gun battle with security personnel.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar categorically said on Monday that the defence ministry had "not permitted" the visiting team into the Indian Air Force base and that the crime scene, handed over to the NIA, had been isolated.

Parrikar said the Defence Ministry "refused permission" to the probe team to access the airbase but added: "The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call."

The minister said the area had been fenced and had no contact with the airbase. The probe team was not given permission to interact with any defence personnel or use any defence vehicle.

"If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry," Parrikar added.

India plans to provide the Pakistani team access to all witnesses in the case, but not to the security personnel from National Security Guard or BSF.

The witnesses include Punjab Police Superintendent of Police Salwinder Singh, his jeweller friend Rajesh Verma, cook Madan Gopal and 17 injured persons.

Sources said that cooperation with the Pakistani team would be based on the principle of reciprocity hoping that an Indian team would be allowed to travel to Pakistan at a later date. It may be recalled that in the 26 November, 2008 Mumbai attacks case, Pakistan had sent a judicial commission to cross-examine some of the witnesses in the case.

With inputs from PTI
A new coalition government headed by Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti is likely to assume office in Jammu and Kashmir this week after weeks of speculations, but the distribution of portfolios between the parties may have caused a minor glitch. The BJP was earlier eager to continue the alliance but the PDP president dug in her heels, seeking Confidence-Building Measures (CBMs) from the Centre before continuing the alliance.

Now it is the BJP that is silently giving PDP president Mehbooba a tough time. Days before the new government assumes office, a fresh controversy over the distribution of major portfolios has erupted between coalition partners. A group of BJP state legislatures are seeking new portfolios, including the all-important ministries like Finance, Planning and MoS Home.

The idea to redistribute the portfolios on an equal basis was floated by state BJP leaders in Jammu, when they met BJP national secretary Ram Madhav and senior state BJP leader and Union Minister of State in the PMO Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday.

The most vocal, among the state leadership, to demand new portfolios is Nowshera MLA, Ravinder Raina, and some old hands of the BJP in Jammu, who were present at the crucial meeting, before announcing their support for PDP.

A former RSS worker, Raina  who served as a commissioned officer in the Indian Navy  said that BJP deserves equal and important portfolios because his party has same number of seats in the legislative assembly, as its ally PDP.

What is wrong with this, if I am demanding equal distribution of portfolios? There was discussion among the party MLAs over the issue and we expressed our views, that we should have some important ministries, Raina told Firstpost on Sunday.

Mehbooba, the PDP chief, staked claim for government formation on Saturday, after she was elected Leader of the PDP legislature party. She called on Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhavan in Jammu accompanied by party MPs Muzaffar Hussain Baig and Tariq Hameed Karra, besides Leader of BJP legislature Dr Nirmal Singh.

Sources said it would be difficult for PDP to give away these important portfolios, after two of its senior leaders Beg and Karra have reaffirmed their faith in the alliance and are seen accompanying Mehbooba on every official occasion.

Tariq Karra may return to state politics, after he shunned his previous position in the BJP-PDP alliance in the state. That means the Finance Ministry would go to him, not Haseeb Drabu. When you have situation like this how would you expect Finance to be given to BJP member? a senior PDP leader asked Firstpost.

Even for the Central leadership of the BJP it is becoming hard to appease their state leadership as the demand for the redistribution grows louder.

Presently, the BJP has 28 members, including two from its strategic partner Sajad Lones Peoples Conference, and PDP has 27 members in the 87-member Assembly house.

The rift over the distribution of Ministries became clear on Saturday when senior BJP leader and former deputy chief minister Nirmal Singh said, issues between the BJP and PDP are yet to be resolved, and this will be done before taking the oath.

PDP and BJP leaders will sit together and discuss the issues to resolve them, Singh told reporters outside the Raj Bhavan, in Jammu.

Earlier Mehbooba and Singh had informed the governor that they were engaged in discussions and would soon intimate him about a mutually convenient date on which the coalition government could be sworn in.

After meeting the governor, Mehbooba had expressed hope that the new government would work on the agenda of peace, reconciliation and development.

Mufti sahab had formed this alliance on the basis of secular culture which exists in the state. We have a mixed population in Jammu and Kashmir like Hindu, Muslims, Christians and Sikhs, Mehbooba said referring to her father Mufti Mohammed Sayeeds decision to ally with BJP last year.

Mufti sahabs demise had created a void in Jammu and Kashmir. To restore the trust and gain confidence, we took some time. I think it was worth it. Mufti sahab had formed this alliance for a larger purpose than just for the sake of government-formation, she said.

"There are no differences between the PDP and BJP. At a time when the government formation is in the process, rumours on differences on distribution of portfolios are baseless," PDP chief spokesman Naeem Akhter, said.

However National Conference leader Omar Abdullah pitched in saying the coalition partners should inform the people about the reason for the delay in announcing the date for the swearing-in ceremony of the ministers of the new government.

He tweeted:

Would anyone from the PDP or BJP care to inform the people of J&K why the date for the oath taking can't be announced now? What's the delay?  Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) March 26, 2016

The state has been under Governor's Rule since 7 January , 2016 after the death of Mufti Mohammed Sayeed. He headed the PDP-BJP coalition government for 10 months in Jammu and Kashmir.
Dhakuakona: Raking up the issue of infiltration of Bangladeshis in Assam, BJP president Amit Shah on Monday accused the ruling Congress of not stopping it and using the illegal migrants as its vote bank.

Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are coming here (to campaign for the Assam Assembly elections) ... I challenge the Congress President to say she will stop Bangladeshi infiltration ... She wont say it. Congress is using the Bangladeshi infiltrators as its vote bank," Shah told a poll rally here.

The infiltration problem would end in Assam once a BJP government is formed here, he said, adding, We will seal the Bangladesh border and no infiltrator will be able to step in here."

"Bangladeshi infiltration problem is not only of Assam but of the entire country, he said. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi where was Assam put by Congress at the time of Independence and Partition? Jawaharlal Nehru had put Assam as Category D state," Shah said contending that Mahatma Gandhi and Gopinath Bordoloi(Assams first chief minister) kept Assam within India.

During the Chinese aggression in the 1960s, it was Nehrus responsibility to stand with his soldiers and the

people of Assam but he addressed the nation over All India Radio saying 'good bye Assam, good bye Assam'.

The Indian soldiers fought bravely and kept Assam within the Indian map, he said.

Shah said Bangladeshi infiltrators were snatching away the jobs of the locals and as a result unemployment was high in Assam.

"As long as Congress government continues here, the infiltrators will never be stopped as they are used as its

(Cong's) vote bank," he said.

The BJP president said though Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and AIUDF chief Badruddin Ajmal were publicly fighting each other, but at night they were making plans to form government together.

Continuing his tirade against Congress, Shah said despite Assam voting Gogoi to office thrice and sending former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Rajya Sabha for 10 years, there was no development in the state.

"Bangladeshi infiltration continues, one crore people remain below the poverty line, there is no electricity to 30 per cent of households, flood problem continues and there is shortage of drinking water supply."

"The Centre sends money to the state for development projects but the Congress government did not work for Assam ... Search for the money and you will find it in the Congressman's house," the BJP leader claimed.

On the educational front in the state, he said there are no good facilities and even Gogoi sent his son abroad to study and appealed to the people to vote for BJP as the party wants to bring development to Assam.

Shah echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in mentioning Gogoi's advancing age.

"Tarun Gogoi looks tired on television while delivering his speeches. Let him rest and allow a youth - Sarbananda Sonowal - a chance to be the chief minister and there will be anand(happiness) in Assam," he added.

PTI
Mumbai: Maharashtra Environment Minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam alleged on Monday that the recent incidents of fire at the Deonar dumping ground were the "handiwork" of BJP and that the ruling party was trying to gain political mileage out of the issue.

Kadam, along with other Shiv Sena MPs and ministers, and city mayor Snehal Ambekar, visited the dumping ground on Monday.

"BJP trying to take political mileage out of this fire issue (incidents of fire since January this year) which is the handiwork of its own people and they are doing this in the run up to the BMC polls," Kadam alleged.

"...But the truth is that BJP and its leadership are responsible for this menace. This is their attempt to malign

Shiv Sena," he told reporters.

"Inquiry should be run into these incidents. I ask who appoints Commissioner of BMC, Shiv Sena leader or the Chief

Minister?" he asked.

Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant said it was unfortunate that BJP was "playing politics" over the issue rather than solving it.

He also attacked Congress over its Mumbai chief Sanjay Nirupam's remarks that the BJP-Shiv Sena combine has ruined the city.

"Congress leaders need to know at least one very common thing that if we were not doing the right job, then why we

were elected so many times by the people of Mumbai?" he asked.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta, who was also present on the spot, briefed the minister and others on measures being undertaken by the civic administration on the cooling operation front.

Massive fire at the dumping ground in January this year had created a thick blanket of smog over neighbouring areas

causing serious health issues to residents, while a fresh fire broke out there last week.

PTI
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi-- Friday night, the Pascagoula Police Department responded to a call of a fight and shots fired at 3453 Denny Ave. Witnesses stated multiple black males in two separate vehicles approached a white male and began to assault him. They were pistol-whipping the victim with a handgun when it fired, striking the man in the arm.

The victim, Allen Heath Wise,27, of Ocean Springs was able to flee while the suspects continued to fire multiple shots at him as he ran away. The suspects then fled the scene in a green SUV with police believing it was either a Nissan or Toyota and a gold Acura.

Officers and an ambulance arrived to Cambridge Park Apartments, Wise was later transported to the Singing River Health System Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and later released.

The Mississippi Press recently learned from Chief Kenny Johnson that the police department is working on theory that Wise may not have been the intended victim.

"We have not confirmed this theory nor do we have suspects as of yet," Johnson said.

The investigation into this matter is still ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the Pascagoula Police Department at 228 762 2211 or Crime Stoppers.
Kolkata: Attacking the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, CPI(M) leader Surya Kanta Mishra has raised questions over the progress of CBI probe into the Saradha scam and NIA probe in the Khagragarh blast.

In a series of tweets on Sunday night, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, accused the Prime Minister of "trying to shield" Trinamool Congress in the Narada sting case by not sending it to the Rajya Sabha ethics committee.

He said the Left Front's call for a Left democratic secular government has made both the Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Prime Minister "jittery" and "that is why Modi is repeating the same script it had played two years back during the Lok Sabha poll campaign".

"Two years ago the same script was uttered by the PM Modi (during Lok Sabha campaign) in Bengal. What has been the progress of punishing the guilty in the Saradha scam? Bengal wants to know," he said.

"Why has CBI slowed down Saradha investigation? Who protected WB CM and top TMC leaders? PM silent in election meeting in WB. Why the influential ones behind the Saradha scam could not be identified even in 2 years? Is the BJP-TMC match fixing the reason? The PM must answer.

"Why did it take seven days to order an NIA probe into the Khagragarh blasts? What is the outcome of the NIA probe? The PM should answer," he said.

The CPI(M) state secretary also raised questions over not sending Narada sting case to the Rajya Sabha ethics committee.

"Who is stopping the PM from sending the #NaradaSting to the RS (Rajya Sabha) ethics committee? PM's party is trying to shield TMC!! That's evident & clear!!" he said in another tweet.

"Whether the PM is not aware that TMC has become a hub of bombs & firearms? All bomb factories unearthed r in d houses of TMC leaders!!!" he tweeted.

Mishra said Bengal will not give even an inch to the "killers of Gandhi and worshippers of Nathuram Godse".

"Let Killers of Gandhi & worshippers of Godse be busy in establishing busts of Nathuram!! Bengal vows not to let an inch of it to them," Mishra said.

Kickstarting his West Bengal poll campaign, the Prime Minister had yesterday mounted a blistering attack on Trinamool Congress over corruption charges against it and also on CPI(M) and Congress for their alliance in West Bengal but as rivals in poll-bound Kerala.

Observing that no industry had come up in Bengal in the last five years, he had said the only one flourishing industry in Bengal was the "bomb-making industry".

PTI
Ouster of Congress governments in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttrakhand in span of two months due to intra-party factionalism and open revolt by a section of its legislators should worry Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi.

In Arunachal Pradesh, leader of the breakaway faction of the Congress party Kalikho Pul now heads the government and is supported by the BJP. In Uttarakhand, imposition of President Rule on Sunday was welcomed by rebel Congress MLAs and of course by the BJP. Harish Rawat government technically fell on 18 March when the Congress rebels had voted against the Appropriation bill (passage of budget) with the BJP.

However, the then chief minister Harish Rawat and Speaker Govind Singh Kunjal claimed otherwise saying that the Appropriation bill was passed by the voice vote. But the fact remains the official proceedings suggest that 35 MLAs, out of 67 MLAs present in the House had sought division (voting) and were denied. The numbers clearly indicate that that the Appropriation Bill was not passed on the evening of 18 March.

The Constitution states very clear that if the government of the day fails to pass the budget or any other money bill, the government falls. It would mean that the government has lost confidence of the House and was reduced to a minority and thus has to relinquish office. If Rawat didn't have majority of members in state assembly when Appropriation Bill was put to vote, then he lost the right to rule the state. Moralist arguments are for public debate but don't hold any ground in terms of technicality of the issue.

The BJP-Congress rebels tactic surprised all. It was for the first time that the Opposition and a faction of ruling party joined hands to make a common cause to bring down a state government.

If one takes the statements made by Rawat and Kunjal on face value then the question arises -- why send disqualified MLAs for defying the party whip and come under ambit of anti-defection law. If Rawat and the Speaker's claim on passage of budget is true then it means that these Congress MLAs voted for the government and didn't violate provisions of anti-defection law. More so, if at all the bill was passed why was it not sent to the Governor KK Paul for his sign and seal.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said "it is to be noted that till today, neither the Chief Minister nor the Speaker have forwarded a certified copy of the Appropriation Bill to the Governor. Obviously, there is no assent of the Governor to the Appropriation Bill. In any case, all facts surrounding the alleged discussion and passage of the Appropriation Bill clearly indicate its non-passage.....There are strong facts to suggest that the Appropriation Bill was actually defeated. As a consequence, the Government had to resign. Two further consequences flow out of this. Firstly, the Appropriation Bill sanctioning expenditure from 1 April 2016 was not approved and, secondly, if the Appropriation Bill was defeated, the continuation of the Government subsequent to 18 March 2016 is unconstitutional."

Non-passage and non-certification of Appropriation Bill means that the state government can't incur any expenditure of any kind from 1 April, 2016, something that would bring state machinery to a grinding halt. Now, that President Rule has been imposed in Uttrakhand under Article 356 of the Constitution, the Centre will have to make budgetary provisions under Article 357 for the state.

Rahul Gandhi, of course will have a chance to flex his muscles when the President Rule comes for ratification in Parliament. In Rajya Sabha, the BJP is in minority and the Congress and its supportive parties are in majority.

But then the Congress vice-president should ponder over what Congress rebels like Vijay Bahuguna, Harak Singh Rawat and Subodh Uniyal have been publicly saying for past few days  that for the past few months they made all possible attempts to meet him and seek his intervention for intra-party affairs in Uttrakhand but he didn't give them an appointment. The Congress rebels in Arunachal, which now leads the government with BJP' support, had made similar claims or accusations against him. Despite its Arunachal experience, the Congress leadership didn't take any corrective measures with regard to Uttrakhand.

A news report in The Hindustan Times says similar situation is brewing in another Congress ruled state, Okram Ibobi Singh government in Manipur.

In a news conference on Sunday, after his government was dismissed and President Rule was imposed in Uttrakhand, Harish Rawat said the BJP and Modi government at the Centre had become desperate to remove his government because he had presented an excellent annual budget which would have cured all the ills of the state. A tall claim, by any standards. The time frame for implementation of his own promises was only eight to nine months for the assembly elections in the state, as also for Uttar Pradesh, is set to be announced by early or mid December.

What Rawat didn't mention that it was his government's and his party's responsibility to have that budget passed by the state assembly. Rahul will have to see that he needs to do much more to keep morale of his party leaders and workers.
Chennai: With five chief ministers in the last five decades from the movie world, the way to the political power in Tamil Nadu is through building up star power.

Five of the state's chief ministers - C.N. Annadurai, M. Karunanidhi, M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), Janaki Ramachandran and J. Jayalalitha - had their roots in films, while several other actors showed an interest in politics.

In the May 2016 assembly elections, there are three chief ministerial candidiates  incumbent J.Jayalalithaa of the AIADMK, DMK president M. Karunanidhi and DMDK founder A.Vijayakanth  all with a background of Tamil film industry.

Apart from these three, the state has seen and is still seeing several actor-turned-politicians like the late Sivaji Ganesan, R. Sarathkumar, T. Rajendar and M. Karthik who have floated their own parties.

There are several other actors like R. Ramarajan, Vagai Chandrasekhar, Napoleon, Kushboo, C.R. Saraswathi, Anantharaaj and others who have joined the AIADMK, DMK and Congress.

While Annadurai and Karunanidhi were involved in writing the story, screenplay and dialogues of movies, it was MGR who became the first actor-turned-chief minister.

Founder of the ADMK that later became the AIADMK, MGR showed the world the route to political power is also through his star power pull.

Movie actor N.T. Rama Rao also proved that in Andhra Pradesh by floating the Telugu Desam Party and capturing the chief minister's post.

Prior to floating the ADMK in 1972, MGR was with the DMK, which used his star power to capture political power. Movies starring MGR subtly promoted the DMK through songs and dialogues.

But then, a power struggle erupted in the DMK after Karunanidhi started projecting his first son MK Muthu in a big way. Expelled from the DMK, MGR fought back by successfully converting his huge fan base and fan clubs into a political party, the AIADMK.

Since then, this is the route being followed by other actor-turned-politicians.

With his carefully cultivated movie image of being poor-friendly and without any vices like drinking or smoking, MGR soon became the darling of the people.

The AIADMK not only ousted the DMK from power in 1977 but also kept it in the wilderness till MGR's demise in 1987.

After MGR's death, his wife Janaki Ramachandran, also an actor, became chief minister for a very brief period before governor's rule was imposed.

A power struggle between Janaki Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa  who was introduced to politics by MGR and also starred in several movies with him  saw the AIADMK breaking into two.

Subsequently the two factions merged under Jayalalithaa's leadership and AIADMK captured back power in 1991. Since then Jayalalithaa remains the undisputed leader of the AIADMK.

In 2005, Vijayakanth, 63, an action hero known to perform stunts in movies without a duplicate, floated his DMDK party as an alternative to the two dominant Dravidian parties  the AIADMK and the DMK.

When he fought the polls alone without aligning with any party, the DMDK notched up an impressive vote share, better than even the established MDMK and PMK.

As the DMDK's vote share can add muscle to any alliance, he is one of the most sought alliance partner by all opposition parties, BJP included.

Called "Karuppu (Black) MGR" or Captain after his movie "Captain Prabhakaran", Vijayakanth has acted in over 150 Tamil movies.

Though he was never the No.1 hero, he charted his own style in the movie world  a fighter vanquishing terrorists and bad guys.

But then, that's what politics is all about  vanquishing your opponents!

IANS
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "surrendering" to Pakistan by allowing its investigators to probe the Pathankot attack and said instead Indian probe agencies should have gone to that country where "actual masterminds are sitting".

India is saying that Pathankot terror attack was Pakistan-sponsored and in this situation, how can ISI probe against itself?, he asked.

"We are saying that Pathankot terror attack was Pakistan-sponsored. If it was Pakistan-sponsored attack, how can ISI probe against itself?. India is the major victim of the terror attacks and masterminds, who are actual players, are sitting in Pakistan.

"Instead of ISI and Pakistan Army coming, Indian's probe agency R&AW, Army should have gone to Pakistan. Hafiz Saeed is not in India, but in Pakistan," Kejriwal said.

He further said Indian's probe agency should have gone to Pakistan to interrogate Hafiz Saeed, but we are allowing Pakistan's agency to probe the January terror attack on the IAF base in Pathankot.

"We are even saying that 26/11 Mumbai terror attack had been carried out by terrorists who came from Pakistan. The ISI, which had sent terrorists to India for carrying out terror attacks here, has come to India today to gather evidences against itself in Pathankot terror attack. What is Indian government doing ?," he said.

"The Modi government has completely surrendered to Pakistan and we don't know what is the reason behind it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi should give answer to the people of country as to why he has surrendered before the Pakistan," the Delhi Chief Minister said.

Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan had been harbouring anti-India terrorists and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

Earlier on Monday, Congress also questioned the government's move to give Pakistan's security and intelligence officials access to the IAF base in Pathankot.

Party's chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said by this action, the Modi government has "recognised" that Pakistan does not have any role in perpetuating terror in India.

Talking to reporters in Chandigarh, he said it appears to be a case of accused investigating himself.

"By allowing an official Pakistani team to visit and investigate, BJP government has, for the first time, distinguished and, therefore, recognised that the Pakistani establishment does not have any role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in the context of Pathankot Terror Attack," he said.

Surjewala, who later issued a statement in New Delhi, said, "India has always recognized complete inter-mixing of State and non-State actors in export of terror to India. This clear line of 'no-distinction' between State and non-State actors in Pakistan has been breached suo motu by BJP government in favour of Pakistani Army and ISI. "This is despite the fact that Pakistan itself, till now, has only been resorting to "an eye wash, as far as this crucial distinction is concerned."

Besides, he said "unfettered access" to Pakistani JIT raises serious questions on procedural propriety in relation to compromise on national security.

"Arrival of Pakistani JIT to look into Pathankot Terror Attack, unfettered access being provided and almost red carpet welcome being accorded to the Pakistani team along with visit to Pathankot Airbase without even a 'Letter Rogatory' from Pakistan raises serious questions with regard to procedural propriety and genuine apprehensions vis-a-vis compromises on 'National Security'," the Congress spokesman said.

At the AICC briefing in Delhi, party spokesman R P N Singh said, "They (government) are rolling out a red-carpet -it is like asking murderer to come and investigate as to who murdered the child."

The five-member Pakistani team arrived in Delhi on Sunday to probe the 2 January terror attack at the Pathankot air base in Punjab. The team will travel to Pathankot on Monday evening and question witnesses there.

According to official sources, the Pakistani team will be given limited access to the Indian airbase where at least seven military personnel were killed after a gun and bomb attack by alleged Pakistani terrorists.

One civilian was also killed in the attack on the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. Six terrorists who had crossed over into Punjab from Pakistan were also killed.

This is the first time that New Delhi has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country.

The access was granted as India hoped that Pakistan will bring to justice the alleged perpetrators, including Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar.

Sources said that cooperation is offered to the Pakistani team on the principle of reciprocity. India hopes that a team will be allowed to travel to Pakistan at a later date.

With inputs from agencies
Purulia: A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused her of ruining Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said Trinamool Congress had ushered in a new era of development in the state which was languishing during the previous Left regime.

She also charged the Modi government of not doing enough for the state.

"Neither the 34-year-old Left regime nor the two-year-old BJP government at the Centre did anything for the development of Bengal," Banerjee said at an election meeting at Jaipur in Purulia district.

"We have changed the picture of Bengal and have placed Bengal on the global map," Banerjee said.

"During the Left Front rule, people were in panic in the entire Jangalmahal (Maoist affected area) which had witnessed daily killings and bloodshed. Those days are gone and peace has returned. There has not been a single killing in Jangalmahal since 2011," she said.

Training guns at the central government, she said, "The centre is talking big. They have stopped funds for various programmes like ICDS. The state government is running those programmes."

Commenting on the Congress-left electoral pact, Banerjee said, "They are shameless. The Congress has forgotten how 55,000 Congress workers were killed in Bengal during the Left Front rule."

She reminded people that it was during the TMC rule that the scheme of providing rice at Rs 2/kg to poor families was started in the state.

The Prime Minister had yesterday said, "The 34-year-long Left regime had destroyed Bengal and the TMC in the last five years had broken the aspirations of the masses and their dreams. They (TMC) have ruined Bengal."

"No industry was coming up in Bengal and the only one flourishing was the bomb making industry," he added.
Kandahar: An Afghan official says overnight attacks by the Taliban on two police checkpoints in the volatile south killed at least eight policemen.

Col. Almas Kahn, deputy police chief in Helmand province, said on Monday that the attack happened in the Gereshk district around midnight on Sunday.

Though Kahn blamed the Taliban, the group did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack. Afghan forces have been trying to reduce the number of checkpoints as they are vulnerable to insurgent attacks.

Separately, the Taliban claimed responsibility for firing a series of rockets at Kabul's new Parliament building early on Monday. No casualties were reported.

Rockets are occasionally fired at government and diplomatic areas in Kabul, but casualties are rare and the capital has been largely free of deadly attacks for some months.

AP
New York: Led by hundreds of high school students, teachers, parents of Indian kids in American schools and outraged grandpas and grandmas, more than 20,000 people have signed off on a stinging letter protesting the recommended changes to California state textbooks from Grades VI to X that could eliminate crucial historical references to India.

Calling this the largest civil rights movement of Indian Americans in the last 40 years Dr Vamsee Juluri, who teaches media studies at the University of San Francisco, says the struggle here is for all Indian Americans who represent the last remaining legally and professionally sanctioned victims of racism.

academia: Don't Replace "India" with "South Asia" in California History Textbooks - Sign the Petition! https://t.co/TjZwtuXkVm via @Change  Vamsee Juluri (@VamseeJuluri) March 19, 2016

Getting diasporans to lobby for national interests is usually hard but here is a case where the next army of of millennial voters is speaking out in an country with a swiftly changing demographic. Asians and Latinos are the two fastest growing ethnic groups in the US where the share of white voters is going down year on year.

Indias diaspora, which is about 25m strong, has traditionally been a means of projecting soft power and burnishing the countrys image. Now, that cohort is stepping on the gas.

Petitioning the California Board of Education, Juluri writes: You seem to have been taken for a ride! You cannot seriously expect Californias educational system to be respected anywhere in the world if you go ahead with your recent decision to delete all references to India in middle school history lessons and replace this word with the geo-politically motivated Cold War era relic of a phrase South Asia." Would you presume to deny the reality of Indias existence and history, and its deep significance to Indian American students in California, simply because a few misinformed professors of 'South Asia Studies' wrote you a letter recommending you re-educate Californias children in this bizarre manner?

Read the full text of the online petition here.

This is not simply about Hindusim, its about world history textbooks and what we are teaching our 6th graders, Juluri clarifies.

The suggested changes to the framework could appear in sixth-to-tenth grade textbooks in California beginning in 2017 but the war cry is already getting heard and the education board is showing signs of backing off, says Juluri.

Shocking, absurd, Let India be India, just like you are not changing Americas name are the theme of thousands of responses on the online petition.

Indians on Americas west coast have long been wrangling with such distortions but what makes the #CaliforniaTextbooks fight stand out is that it is the first time students are leading the charge for the Indian communtiys representaion in American public life and discourse.

Many parts of California  especially Silicon Valley, the 50-mile stretch between San Francisco and San Jose, are expressions of iconolastic freedom and phenomenal productivity. Now, with a student-led momement on behalf of the Indian diaspora, Indian Americans may well have new brag tag in the West - civil rights.

Firstpost spoke with Dr Vamsee Juluri in San Francisco. Below is the full text of the interview.

Politically, where is this coming from?

The entire argument of the South Asia faculty has been that whatever theyre doing is progressive and intellectually rigorous and is for a liberal South Asian ideal. They have been assuming this mantle and portraying all Hindu parents and students and community groups as Hindutva and extremist and revisionist. So thats the weird thing. Politically, one would think we should be on the side of the faculty because theyre for the good stuff and the other side are fanatics. But in practice the South Asia faculty action is very distorted and inadvertently even.

So, how do you differentiate, what is the defense against the fanatics tag?

Ive been following this for 10 years and been looking very closely at what people are asking for and it is very very clear that this is a huge popular uprising. This is the Indian American civil rights movement - the California textbooks. After 40 years of Indians being in America, theyve not participated in any big Indian American civic process  everybody comes settles down, gets a job and builds temples. But this (California textbooks) is a huge engagement with American civic life. The community is getting this act together - when it started out, there were a few small religious groups but its gotten a lot better in the last few years although not fully there yet. You cannot cannot describe the changes they are asking for as fundamentalist because they are rational and reasonable. On the other side, the South Asia faculty have gone from a position of a questionable nature to complete absurdity. They have made a lot of changes that are self contradictory and extreme.

Their report goes into 12 pages, would you say some recommendations are more extreme than others?

When you say there was no India (before 1947), you are erasing an entire generations ability to identify with their heritage. Now, when you erase Hinduism and say there was never such a thing as Hindusim and at the same time you retain references to Hinduism and India when it comes to caste oppression, its bizarre, youre crushing people into silence. So what kind of a political agenda does erasing India serve? Let me put it like this. Long term, if the the legitimacy of the existence of India is denied like thisif you say that India started to exist only from 1947, I think it serves some very nefarious agendas.

Nefarious agendascould you offer a specific example?

There was a line in the 7th grade curriculum about how just before European colonialism, India and the Muslim world experienced great prosperity. The South Asia faculty got that line changed to this - the Islamic civilization as a whole stretching from Mediterranean sea to the Indian Ocean region experienced prosperity. So what have they done? They have made it seem that before the British came, India was just a part of the Islamic civilization. They have not acknowledged the Vijayanagara empire here or the fact that India was both Hindu and Muslim at this time. So it serves a revisionist agenda where geo-politically, in 10-15 years, if this kind of thing continues, and its already happening, if it starts brainwashing 6th grade kids like this, people are going to start thinking there was never an India, and it also starts to revive weird partition-era arguments questioning the legitimacy of Indias independence and existence except as a possession of the Mughals and the British.

What is this South Asia faculty? Who are these people suggesting edits?

These are not unknown professors. They teach South Asian history or literature, post colonial studies. There are about 15 professors who have signed off on the recommended changes and the first letter was submitted under the lead name of Kamala Visveswaran  all well known scholars. Unfortunately, they are not realising that whatever their positions are in the field can and should be debated in conferences and graduate level courses and scholarly papers but to rush them into the minds of 6th grade children without considering the situation on the ground is not right - they are dismissing all push-back as fundamentalism. This is a debate that should have taken place on the sidelines of the school process well in time to have evolved into appropriate school-level recommendations.

South Asia itself is a cold war formulation - are the scholars confused between the geographical scope of area studies and the historical realities of large powers like India or Hindustan?

Thats right. The term South Asia was coined out of geo-political considerations in the cold war period by the State department. In Universities, South Asia became a way of organising an inter disciplinary order for faculty in different departments working on that region. But this way of imposing South Asia and taking it back 5000 years is bizarre. Even within South Asia studies, there will be, say, a China center but nobody wants to erase their own identity  is any scholar of Chinese history going to send letters saying lets remove the mention of China and say just East Asia?

How long has this been going on?

I first heard about this in 2005. A lot of the South Asia faculty were saying that Hindu extremists are trying to rewrite history in Sacramento. I initially took it at face value, even the Wall Street Journal was writing about it, I thought maybe these Hindu groups were talking about teaching California students that ancient India invented pushpak vimanas stuff. On closer study, I realised that they were not. It was actually the textbooks that were full of myths and old colonial fantasies full of mistakes and racist condesension towards India and Hindusim. The Hindu groups were for the most part were being respectful and asking for common sense things. Many communities face this kind of thing but they are able to cobble together strong community led movements and get it corrected.

Im quoting from a letter youve appended to the petition"Meetings were contentious, heated, outside parties jumped in and lawsuits were filed Who are these outside parties?

I think Bajpai and Arumuganathaswami have done the maximum work on this but theyve been branded as right wing. In 2005, when the Hindu parents told the Department of Education that there were problems, they were initially sympathetic and happy to let Bajpai correct these things. The Board pretty much agreed to whatever Prof Bajpai recommended but at the last minute, a Harvard Sanskrit professor rebranded the whole thing as Hindutva extremists saffronising history. I am told that a lot of people were flown in to destroy Bajpais case.

Again, my first questionso whats driving this?

Since I am located here within academia and I am familiar with the work of a lot of these scholars, I think their intentions are genuine and they really think that they on the side of minorities but the changes they are asking for are contradictory to their stated goals. The bigger problem is that what has happened in America as far as we Indians are concerned is that you have these far left academicians who are Marxist and subaltern studies kind of people who have been co-opted by extreme right wing forces from other politico-religious formations. So you have left wing South Asian academics doing things which serve the interests of certain other groups advancing intolerant (they think no other religion but theirs should exist) and imperialist (they think their nations destiny is to restore their great religion-based world empire) agendas. Otherwise, theres no real principle or precedence to what they are doing. Nobodys changing the name of Greece or Rome or China so why India?

Is that because we dont push back hard enough?

Americans in general have to have some factual understanding of Indians.

Other minority communities have invested intellectually, economically, politically in changing the old colonial misrepresentaions of them. Youll find people on mainstream TV fighting Islamophobia, a lot of studies have been done on how Arabs are portrayed in the movies, anti-Semitism. But the academicians who study India rarely do that because they think India and Hinduism are the problem. They dont see a need to speak for India or Hindus, as a whole, as if Indians and Hindus dont include the poor and marginalized communities in them too. If America does not understand India correctly, the last bastion standing against some violent and intolerant extremist forces that are sweeping worldwide will fallthen well know how progressive South Asia studies can be!

So, what after the petition?

Two days ago, there was a meeting of the Instructional Quality Commission and what they did was to kind of acknowledge some of these changes have really upset people and they reviewed a lot of things. Several of the suggestions of replacing India with South Asia were rejected. So now, theyre going ahead with the somewhat weird situation where theyre going to use the word India but use the word South Asia in brackets next to it. So the struggle continues.The board of education has to stop getting pushed by one group of academics like this and realize that this is basically a disputed position in academia. Denying that India and Hinduism exist may be a fashionable fancy and even an aggressively dominant view in academia but then there is a growing movement consisting of other scholars who are batting for facts and commonsense here and demonstrating how self-contradictory, baseless, and far-fetched some of these majoritarian views are.

Are you saying you are in the minority?

Of course, today if we stand up and say India and Hinduism existed before 1947, people in academia shun you for it. The good thing is that in 10-20 years, it may change it is becoming increasingly clear to many in the scholarly community that the currently dominant South Asia studies canon is just a rehashed version of 19th century German Indology that distorted the entire history of India and came up with this formula that Germans and Indians sort of had the same ancestry called the Aryans. The whole edifice of South Asia studies resistance to questioning Aryan stuff in Indian history lessons is just that. The South Asia studies dogma thinks Hinduism as it exists is Hindu nationalism/extremism! But the real question for scholars to explore now is: is South Asia studies as it exists now really just a reinvented form of colonial orientalism?

How palpable is Indophobia?

Indophobia is a systematic intellectual distortion in history books and in the media, I dont mean it at a personal level. Its not open like anti-black racism in the 50s or even something seen palpably in everyday life perhaps in most parts of the United States. But it is real, and it will have consequences if left unaddressed for India and for the world. So one of the course corrections I am trying to do for the textbooks movement is in making it engage with not just Hinduphobia but Indophobia too, for this is something that concerns all Indians and not just Hindus. The textbook movement started out with a religion-focus I think not necessarily because Hindus spearheading it wanted to exclude others, but simply because of the perceived way in which American society responds to minority/immigrant identities better if it is framed as religion rather than as nationality perhaps. But one thing should be clear to everyone following this, and perhaps getting misled by all the old news stories they may find about religious extremism and such. This is not a religion studies curriculum we are talking about, but world history, and Indias place in it. It concerns all Indians and Indian-origin people around the world now.

I request your readers to please consider signing the petition and sharing it widely so the department of education understands how important your identity is to you.
Pakistan's electronic media regulatory body (PEMRA) on Sunday released a statement for the Pakistani media asking them to be "professional" and "responsible" when reporting on Lahore attacks.

It was a very standard press release except for this line which caught the eyeballs. "Pakistan needs to follow the example of professional handling of Brussels attacks by international media rather than following the footsteps of Indian media that is driven by crass commercialisation."

A suicide bomber who attacked the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park thronging with families celebrating Easter on Sunday killed at least 72 people, with several children among the dead. More than 200 people were injured when explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through the crowds near a children's play area in the park.

As news of the inhumane terror attack was being reported by Pakistani media, the PEMRA issued a strong advisory to all Pakistani media channels to cover the events with utmost professional responsibility, keeping in mind that any irresponsible or hyper attitude at this stage could jeopardize the ongoing National Action Plan.

It is, however, interesting that the international media (who the PEMRA hails in their statement) came under heavy criticism on social media for not giving enough coverage to Lahore attacks compared to their reportage and analysis of the Brussels attack.

why are @SkyNews or @BBCBreaking @BBCNews not showing ANY coverage of the #Lahore attacks? - Not surprised

- Double standards  Ali  (@ali_b86) March 27, 2016

PEMRA
On Easter Sunday, as the world celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ, militants in Pakistan attacked a public park in Lahore, killing 69 people and wounding over 250, most of them women and children. The attack revived memories of the barbaric 2014 Peshawar attack, where gunmen stormed the Army Public School, firing indiscriminately and killing 141 people.

World leaders were quick to condemn Sundays attacks, with several messages and condolences pouring in. Heres a small selection of what world leaders had to say:

Malala Yousufzai (Pakistani teenage activist, who was shot by the Taliban in 2009)

Narendra Modi (Indian Prime Minister)

Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased & prayers with the injured: PM  PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 27, 2016

Bernie Sanders (US Democrat Presidential nominee)

We are grieving today for the families affected by the deplorable attack in Lahore. No one should ever fear taking their children to a park.  Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) March 27, 2016

Justin Trudeau (Canadian Prime Minister)

Canada condemns the deplorable bombing in Lahore, Pakistan. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those killed or injured. #LahoreBlast  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) March 27, 2016

Ban Ki-moon (UN Secretary General): The secretary general strongly condemns the suicide bombing today at Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park in the Pakistani city of Lahore. The secretary general calls for the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice, consistent with human rights obligations.

Afghanistan Presidential Palace: Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, people and government of Pakistan. We reiterate that the scourge of terrorism has no boundaries and must be confronted jointly through increased regional cooperation.

National Security Council spokesperson, White House: This cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park has killed dozens of innocent civilians and left scores injured. We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those killed, just as our thoughts and prayers are with the many injured in the explosion.

David Cameron (British Prime Minister)

I'm shocked by the terrorist attack in Lahore. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims. We will do what we can to help.  David Cameron (@David_Cameron) March 27, 2016

Malcolm Turnbull (Australian Prime Minister)

Australia condemns the terrorist attacks in Lahore. Our condolences, prayers & solidarity are with the victims & their family & friends.  Malcolm Turnbull (@TurnbullMalcolm) March 27, 2016

Francois Hollande (French President): Following the attack in Lahore, Pakistan, I express to the people of Pakistan the solidarity of France in these painful moments.
Lahore: The worst fears of Pakistan's Christians came true with the carnage in Lahore on Easter Sunday, said activists who had braced for a backlash since thousands took to the streets over the execution of a murderer feted as an Islamist hero.

Taliban militants said they were targeting Christians with the suicide bombing which killed at least 72 people, nearly half of them children, in a crowded park in Lahore as thousands marked Easter on a warm spring evening.

Christian leaders said they had been filled with foreboding ever since the government executed Mumtaz Qadri, who murdered a liberal governor calling for reform of the country's blasphemy laws.

Their fears grew when Islamists announced on Friday that they would hold prayers for Qadri over the Easter weekend, four weeks after his hanging.

"The Christian community had the feeling that there would be backlash from Qadri's execution, especially on festivals like Easter," said Shamoon Gill, a Christian activist and spokesman for the All Pakistan Minorities Alliance.

"We feared that something might happen."

The Taliban did not mention Qadri in their claim of responsibility.

But the attack came as thousands of his supporters clashed with police in Islamabad, several hundred kilometres away, with activists attacking the government's apparent tolerance of the demonstrators.

"People are calling for an assassin to be declared a hero and the government is giving them space," said Cecil Shane Chaudhry, executive director of the National Commission for Justice and Peace, a Christian NGO.

Persecution

Sunday's blast was the latest in the "long history of persecution of Christians in the country", leading human rights activist Hussain Naqi told AFP Monday.

In Rome, Pope Francis appealed to Pakistani authorities to step up security for religious minorities after the "abhorrent" suicide bombing.

Christians are frequently the target of militant attacks, including a double suicide bombing that killed 82 people at a church service in Pakistan's northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

They also often face discrimination at work and routinely fall victim to the blasphemy laws, which rights groups say are often used to wage personal vendettas.

Blasphemy can carry the death penalty in Pakistan and is a hugely sensitive issue in the Muslim nation of around 200 million.

Even unproven allegations can stir mob violence. Christians, who make up 1.6 percent of the population, are often the target.

"We are teaching our kids a distorted, rather false history where the mullah is pious and the minorities are evil, and this is a very dangerous trend," Naqi said.

"It's not only with Christians, we are doing the same with Hindus and Ahmadis and that's why they take every possible step -- either legal or illegal -- to leave the country."

Chaudhry agreed.

"There is a growing sense of insecurity among minorities in Pakistan, and whoever is not a Muslim is not safe in this country," he said.

Activists pointed to officials who appeared to dismiss the militants' statement they were targeting Christians, accusing them of downplaying the threat.

"The target was not the Christian community in particular," senior police official Haider Ashraf told AFP Monday despite the Taliban statement, adding that Muslims were among the dead.

Naqi branded the statement a "cover-up" and said the government was in denial, "trying to downplay the incident to hide its own failure at protecting Christians and minorities".

On Monday around 3,000 of Qadri's supporters were still holding a sit-in near main government buildings in Islamabad.

Their demands include the execution of Asia Bibi, a Christian mother-of-five who has been on death row since she was convicted of blasphemy in 2010.

They are also calling for Qadri to be officially declared a martyr and want the immediate imposition of Sharia Islamic law.

"Didn't the government know what their demands would be? Why did the government not stop them?" asked Chaudhry.

AFP
Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday cancelled his upcoming visit to the US where he was scheduled to attend the Nuclear Security Summit later this week in the backdrop of the deadly terror attack in Lahore.

"In view of the terrorist attack in Lahore, which took a heavy toll on the lives of innocent citizens of Pakistan and caused injuries to scores of people, the Prime Minister has decided to cancel his visit to Washington to attend the Nuclear Security Summit," the Foreign Office said in a statement.

Sharif was due to visit Washington to participate in the fourth Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) on March 31 hosted by US President Barack Obama.

The statement said that Pakistan's delegation to the NSS will now be led by Syed Tariq Fatemi, the Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister.

According to media reports, Sharif and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were likely to meet on the sidelines of the Summit.

At least 72 people, including 29 children, were killed and 233 were injured in a blast near Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in Lahore on Easter Sunday.

A faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaatul Ahrar, claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack, saying Christians were their target.

Earlier in the day, Sharif cancelled his trip to UK, citing the terror attack in Lahore.

Prime Minister Sharif spent the entire day today in Lahore condoling with the bereaved families, as well as visiting the hospitals to meet those injured in the attack, the statement said.

He expressed solidarity with the victims' families and reassured that the perpetrators behind the heinous attack would be brought to justice, it added.

Sharif also underscored that such incidents further strengthen his government's resolve to eradicate the menace of terrorism from its roots.

PTI
Beijing: China has over 100 million "left-behind children", meaning that about one-third of the country's total underage population are growing up without the companionship of their parents, posing challenges to the society.

"Some 100 million left-behind children now exist in China, posing a great challenge to social management," Song Yinghui, a professor at Beijing Normal University, who studied migrant labour issues, was quoted as saying by the state-run Global Times.

His observations came as China prepares to conduct its first comprehensive survey on the underprivileged group. Song told a seminar last Saturday that over 60 million children are left in rural areas while their parents work in cities while 36 million children are unregistered floating population, meaning they are left living in one city by parents who work in another. These figures greatly surpass the previous estimate of 61 million.

According to the National Health and Family Planning Commission figures, China has 254 million migrant labourers and their numbers were expected to cross 310 million by 2030.

Migrant labourers were widely credited to be the power behind China's massive economic growth as they served as cheap labourers for the country to emerge as the world's manufacturing hub and second largest economy.

The migrant labourers, mostly from the villages, leave their children behind either with aged parents and relatives or with friends, visiting them only once a year. The children had to be left behind as they can not get admitted in schools or health care centres other than the places where they were born.

Ni Chunxia, an official from the Ministry of Civil Affairs who also attended Saturday's seminar, did not immediately endorse the number, but said the country will conduct its very first comprehensive survey on "left-behind children" this year to find out the exact number and how big a problem the government needs to tackle.

In February, China's State Council released a circular that said that the government aims to significantly reduce the number of such children by 2020.

Qi Xuesen, director general of China Social Welfare Foundation, said the target for 2020 is in line with China's poverty alleviation target in the 13th Five-Year Plan.

However, experts have warned that the "left-behind children" problem should not be confused with poverty. "Left-behind children don't necessarily suffer economic woes but rather psychological ones. The poorest families we encounter are those whose parents are not migrant workers and who choose to stay in the villages," said Liu Xinyu, founder of an NGO which provides financial and psychological help to left-behind children.

PTI
London: A Pakistani-origin shopkeeper in the UK has been brutally killed by another Muslim in a "religiously prejudiced" attack hours after he posted an Easter message on Facebook to "my beloved Christian nation".

Asad Shah, 40, a devout Muslim originally from the Pakistani city of Rabwah, was stabbed 30 times and had his head stamped on during a savage attack at his store in Glasgow last Thursday, British media reported on Monday.

On Friday, police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man, who travelled over 320 km to kill the trader belonging to the Ahmadiyya minority community, had been arrested in connection with Shah's death.

A spokeswoman added: "A full investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death which is being treated as religiously prejudiced."

Yesterday, prominent members of Glasgow's Muslim community called for calm and solidarity after police

confirmed that the man arrested in connection with the killing was also a Muslim.

Following the revelation, Humza Yousaf, the Scottish government's only Muslim minister, immediately responded in a tweet: "No ifs, no buts, no living in denial  vile cancer of sectarianism needs stamped out wherever it exists  including amongst Muslims."

Shah, whose final Facebook update, posted a few hours before his death, offered Easter greetings "to my beloved Christian nation", was a member of the minority Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Pakistan.

The Ahmadiyya community faces persecution in Pakistan and is treated with open hostility by many orthodox Muslims.

Meanwhile, over 70,000 pounds has been raised on an online fundraising page for the family of Shah, the Guardian reported.

Over 3,500 people have donated on the GoFundMe page, which was created on Good Friday by some of his customers to raise money for his family, the report said.

PTI
Vatican City: Pope Francis on Monday appealed to Pakistani authorities to step up security for religious minorities after the "abhorrent" suicide bombing targeting Christians which killed scores in Lahore.

"Yesterday in Pakistan, Holy Easter was bloodied by an abhorrent attack," the pontiff told a crowd gathered in St Peter's Square in his Angelus blessing on Easter Monday.

"Once again, violence and heinous murder lead only to suffering and destruction."

"I appeal to the civil authorities and to all the social constituents of this nation to do everything in their power to restore safety and serenity to the population, particularly the most vulnerable religious minorities", he said.

More than 70 people were killed on Sunday in the suicide bombing near a children's play area in a park in Lahore, where many had gathered to celebrate Easter. The Taliban claimed responsibility and said the attack had targeted Christians.

The Vatican on Sunday had condemned the attack as "fanatical violence against Christian minorities".

AFP
WHY DONT YOU READ THESE?
Tokyo: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday, welcomed Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe  the 92-year-old former guerrilla fighter who is widely shunned in the West but frequently courted in Asia.

Mugabe, whose country is subject to sanctions by the United States and European countries over its tainted human

rights record, was visiting Japan for the fourth time as president and holding his third meeting with Abe.

The Japanese Prime Minister said he wants to work with Mugabe, who chaired the African Union last year, to help with Japan's push to reform the UN Security Council.

"By closely coordinating with Mr Mugabe... we wish to help promote reform" of the global body, Abe told reporters, referring to Mugabe as an esteemed African elder.

After their talks, Japan announced development aid worth 600 million yen (USD 5.3 million) for the nation to buy

equipment needed to build roads.

The welcome for Africa's longest-serving ruler comes as Japan tries to compete with China for influence in the

continent's fast-growing economies and as Tokyo prepares to sponsor a major conference on African development this August.

Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed Mugabe in 2014, calling him a renowned African liberation leader and an "old friend" of the Chinese people - one of the country's highest compliments for visiting foreign leaders.

Abe met Mugabe at the last round of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development, or TICAD, held in 2013 in Yokohama. This year's TICAD, slated for Kenya, will be the first to be held in Africa.

They also met last year during a UN disaster conference held in Japan.

Mugabe's latest visit comes as Japan has tried to maintain cordial ties even with states controlled by leaders who have antagonised Western nations, most notably Iran.

Abe has also reached out to Russian President Vladimir Putin  under intense criticism in the West for the annexation of Crimea and fighting in eastern Ukraine  as Japan tries to solve a territorial row dating to the close of World War II.

Mugabe has led Zimbabwe since independence in 1980, with his rule marked by vote-rigging, mass emigration, accusations of human rights abuses and economic decline.

His government has been accused of systematic human rights abuses and tipping the country into a severe crisis through a campaign of violent land seizures.

AFP
Damascus: Syrian forces strengthened their hold on Palmyra on Monday and pushed forward against the Islamic State jihadist group after dealing it a major blow by retaking the ancient city.

Antiquities director Maamoun Abdulkarim said that with Unesco's approval the treasured monuments damaged or destroyed by the jihadists could be restored in five years.

Government troops and allied militia, backed by Russian air and ground support, overran Palmyra on Sunday morning after nearly 10 months of IS rule.

President Bashar al-Assad hailed the victory as "fresh proof of the efficiency of the Syrian army and its allies in fighting terrorism".

Regime forces turned to nearby IS-held towns on Monday, including Al-Qaryatain, southwest of Palmyra, and Sukhnah towards the northeast.

"The army was concentrated around Al-Qaryatain, and today (Monday) the military operations began there," a military source in Palmyra told AFP.

"That is the next goal for the Syrian army. They also have their eyes on Sukhnah."

The head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Rami Abdel Rahman, said the capture of Sukhnah would bring government forces to the gates of oil-rich Deir Ezzor province, an IS bastion.

IS overran Palmyra  a Unesco world heritage site known as the "Pearl of the Desert"  in May 2015 and used its ancient amphitheatre for public executions as the world watched in horror.

The extremist group blew up temples and tower tombs, as part of it campaign against pre-Islamic monuments it considers "blasphemous."

An AFP correspondent in Palmyra saw the Temple of Bel and the Arch of Triumph in pieces on Sunday, with some large stones marred by spray painted messages in support of IS.

'Five years' to restore

On Monday, army sappers continued to defuse roadside bombs and mines that IS had planted in the ancient city as it retreated.

One soldier said more than 50 bombs had already been defused as other units worked on the controlled detonation of more complex devices.

Antiquities chief Abdulkarim said his department would need five years to restore the Temple of Bel and other monuments destroyed by IS.

"If we have Unesco's approval, we will need five years to restore the structures damaged or destroyed by IS," he told AFP.

He said "several experts" had arrived in Palmyra on Monday to assess the damage, but that a preliminary assessment showed 80 percent of the ancient site was "in good shape."

The famed Lion of Al-Lat, shattered by IS last year outside the city's museum, could be put back together and there was not the widespread looting that had been feared, he said.

"We need to start with the damage in the citadel immediately, because it can't afford all the damage that it has suffered."

'Undeniable loss' for IS

As government troops made their final push on Sunday, IS militants fled to Sukhnah and to Deir Ezzor in the Euphrates valley further east.

The US-based Soufan Group said IS "suffered an undeniable loss" with its defeat in Palmyra.

The jihadist organisation has come under growing pressure from Syrian and Iraqi forces set on breaking apart its self-proclaimed "caliphate."

The group has been responsible for a spate of deadly attacks abroad, most recently in Brussels, where 35 people were killed last week.

"The past week exemplifies the future of the Islamic State: relentless internal setbacks amid persistent external attacks," the Soufan Group said in a briefing paper.

"While the group maintains the ability to seize minor towns in both Iraq and Syria, it is facing a larger tactical defeat."

Long keen to portray his army as the vanguard of the fight against the jihadists, Assad hailed Sunday's victory in Palmyra as an "important achievement".

Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose government provided both air and ground support for the offensive, congratulated Damascus on its success.

Assad's other key ally, Iran, hailed the victory and pledged its continued financial and military assistance.

The Syrian army has vowed to build on its recapture of Palmyra with assaults on other IS-held towns, including the jihadists' de facto Syrian capital Raqa to the north.

A second government fighter in Palmyra told AFP the army's immediate concern was "securing the area around Palmyra specifically, and eastern parts of Homs province in general."

Then, government forces would concentrate on "clearing the (IS) fighters that fled from Palmyra to nearby areas."

Finally, they would aim to "find out what happened to the families that were in Palmyra... We're afraid they've been kidnapped."

Some 15,000 of Palmyra's 70,000 residents had stayed on under IS rule.

The residential area of the city saw heavy fighting between government forces and IS.

Most apartment blocks bore marks of the fighting and several had completely collapsed, the AFP correspondent reported.

AFP
United Nations: UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday condemned an Easter Day suicide bombing in Pakistan that killed at least 65 people and injured hundreds more, calling it an "appalling" act of terrorism.

"The secretary general strongly condemns the suicide bombing today at Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park in the Pakistani city of Lahore," a UN statement said.

"The secretary general calls for the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice, consistent with human rights obligations."

The attack was carried out by a suicide bomber who blew himself up in the crowded Pakistani park as Christians were celebrating Easter, Christendom's holiest day.

Ban called on the Islamabad government "to do its utmost to put in place protective measures to ensure the personal security of all individuals, including religious minority communities living in the country."

The UN secretary-general added that he "extends his heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families, and expresses his solidarity with the people and government of Pakistan."

Officials said the toll was expected to rise after the blast that counted numerous children among the casualties.

Explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a children's play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied.

AFP
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Actress Hedy Lamarr is shown in this 1946 photo.

She was also a patented inventor. (AP Photo)



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Words and Their Stories: Renaissance Woman & Renaissance Man (VOA)

Hello and welcome to Words and Their Stories.

Each week we report on words and expressions commonly used in American English.

Today, we talk about people who can do many things.

Someone with many abilities often is called a Jack-of-all-trades or a Renaissance person.

A Jack-of-all-trades is a person who can do many different jobs. Jack is an old word for a worker and a trade is a kind of job or skill.

A Renaissance man or a Renaissance woman is a little different. This expression deals with a persons education and knowledge, not so much with his or her skills.

The word Renaissance comes from Old French and means rebirth.

The Renaissance is a period of European history that began in the 14th century. Its a time when Europe began to awaken from the long period known as the Middle Ages.

Classical learning from Ancient Greece and Rome was reborn in many parts of Europe.

During the Renaissance, people became more interested in learning and educating themselves.

The word renaissance can describe anything that is experiencing a rebirth.

Arts, crafts and musical styles often undergo a renaissance. For example, you might say that currently in the U.S. playing the ukulele is experiencing a renaissance.

Many people are learning to play this small, Hawaiian guitar. Used in this way, renaissance is not capitalized.

In the U.S, the Harlem Renaissance is an African-American cultural movement of the 1920s and 1930s.

Named after a neighborhood of New York City, this Renaissance celebrated African-American culture, traditions, and ways of life.

However, when talking about people, the term Renaissance man or woman refers to a person who is talented in many areas, especially the arts and sciences. Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Benjamin Franklin often are called Renaissance men.

Everyone knows about these guys. The names of Renaissance women in history may be less well known. In the past it wasnt as easy for women to get a formal education, even during the awakening. Also, women were often too busy at home to study up on their science.

But some women did find time.

A German woman named Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717) was a Renaissance woman. She spent her life investigating and drawing nature. After her husband died, she and her daughters traveled to Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname. For two years, they observed insects, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

Her book titled The Metamorphosis of the Insects of Suriname, showed Europeans for the first time the great diversity of the South American rain forest.

A more recent example of a Renaissance woman is the Austrian Hedy Lamar.

During the 1930s and 1940s, Lamar was one of Hollywoods biggest movie stars. She was also an inventor.

During the Second World War, she created a way to protect radio communications from enemy troops. Her method switched radio frequencies in a preprogrammed pattern.

While the Navy did not use the technology, other inventors built upon her idea. Eventually, the U.S. government did use frequency hopping as do many telecommunications companies today.

Lamar once said she hated being known for her beauty and not her mind  a problem Renaissance men like da Vinci and Franklin most likely did not have to face.

And that brings us to the end of this Words and Their Stories.

This Google Doodle features the accomplishments of Renaissance woman, Hedy Lamar.
The recent cases of foodborne illness outbreaks in major restaurants are indeed a cause of alarm to all consumers. While the U.S. food supply is considered to be one of the safest in the world, annual statistics for foodborne illnesses is still staggering. According to the FDA, there are around 48 million cases of foodborne illness every year, or roughly 1 in 6 Americans will experience a food-related illness each year. Of these 48 million, 128,000 will need hospitalization and around 3,000 cases will result in death.

As a result of the recent outbreaks, the food industry has considerably tightened its food handling protocols to ensure the safety of its products. For example, Chipotle has recently announced added measures in the way it handles its food as a result of last year's multi-state E. Coli outbreak. This industry-wide vigilance results to a safer food supply in the U.S.

In another front, researchers are trying to tackle the foodborne illness problem from another angle. A recent study done by University of Illinois' College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Science (ACES) tried to determine if there are factors involved that make certain vegetables more susceptible to contamination.

In particular, the research team studied the ability of pathogenic viruses in adhering to the surfaces of fresh produces. The team tested two factors: (1) if the morphology of the leaf or fruit - the roughness of its surface - is a factor for a virus ability to cling to the produce even after washing and (2) if the chemistry of the leaf or fruit - the waxy layer in leaves and fruit surface that serves as a natural protection - is likewise a contributory factor enabling a virus to cling to the surface.

Jack Juvik, a geneticist at the University of Illinois, explains that their research focused on 24 of the most common salad vegetables used in the U.S. After inoculating surfaces of the vegetables with a swine virus that mimics human rotavirus, the researchers rinsed them twice with a saline solution before testing for viral residue.

Researchers were surprised to find that vegetables with three-dimensional crystalline wax structures have significantly fewer viruses after rinsing. This was a surprise finding since, according to Juvik, they actually expected more viruses to cling to the rougher surfaces because, theoretically, viruses could "hide" more efficiently in these rougher surfaces.

There are two possible explanations offered by the Juvik which made it harder for viruses to cling to certain vegetables. Viruses normally cling to oxygen groups like OH (hydroxide) which explains why it clings to the proteins and carbohydrates of the plants' surfaces. However, if the natural wax covers the surface of the vegetables, it creates a situation where it would be harder for viruses to adhere to the surfaces.

In addition, rinsing the vegetables with water gives the viruses the OH they need to adhere, making it easier to remove them from the surfaces.

Juvik explains that this is the first study linking the surface characteristics of vegetables to the degree of risk of possible contamination. While still in the preliminary stage, the study could eventually help reduce foodborne contamination by recommending with producers offers the least likelihood of viral adherence or by developing better rinsing procedures using data obtained from future trials.
If you have ever walked past the unremarkable brick frontage at 80 Broadway close to the MIT campus, it is very unlikely that you will even have a hint of the massive activities underway in the basement. In fact, the basement of the building houses a busy laboratory packed with bioengineers, nutritionists, students, and farmers engrossed in testing major ideas related to the future of food.

Well, if you are still wondering what we are talking about, you need to know about the Food + Future coLab, which a long-time partnership among the retail chain Target, global design firm IDEO and MIT Media Lab. A select team of entrepreneurs assemble at the laboratory every day to discuss food, especially on means to create a future of absolute transparency in what we consume and also access to profuse good food.

The collaboration started in January this year and plans to explore topics like urban farming, food transparency and authenticity, supply chain as well as health, Food Business News reported.

In fact, last week itself, Target commenced testing two ideas from the Food + Future coLab work. The first idea is being tested at the Fenway Target store in Boston, where the team experimented on a model dubbed as Good & Gather, which flips the conventional food label on its head by clearly presenting the ingredients on the front of packaging, instead of having them in fine print on the back of the packaging.

The second concept being tested currently aims at presenting real time nutritional information, thereby allowing consumers to scan vegetables and fruits, know the precise nutritional value and pay depending on freshness of the food.

The entrepreneurs at the lab have been successful in developing a pipeline of concepts ready for testing within a very short span, and currently they are developing disruptive technologies, Corporate Target quoted Greg Shewmaker, one of Target's entrepreneurs-in-residence, as saying. "Most important - we're closer than ever to helping people know more about what's in their food," Shewmaker added.

Meanwhile, Caleb Harper, director of the Open Agriculture initiative at MIT's Media Lab said that their work with Target is teamwork in the truest sense of the word, as the MIT team will bring its expertise in research and technology, while Target brings their ability to scale and reach the world.

According to Harper, people usually say that the best strawberries come from Mexico. However, the fact is that the best strawberries come from the climate prevailing in Mexico. The climatic conditions prevailing there create expressions like sweetness and color that everyone likes. He is of the view that there is tremendous opportunity to democratize climate via control-environment agriculture and they look forward to commence this work with Target.

Watch the video on "Food and Future CoLab" below:
Bubble tea was first invented in Taiwan in the '80s and recently started making a comeback.

According to NPR, bubble tea is a big thing in Asia - everyone loves it: creamy, sweet, often flavoured tea with chewy black tapioca pearls bobbing at the bottom of a tall cup, and a big straw with which to slurp them up. There's a general misconception that these chewy tapioca pearls are the bubbles - but they're not. They're just the pearls! The bubbles in bubble tea come from the fact that the drink, once prepared, is shaken in a cocktail shaker to produce actual bubbles and make the drink frothy.

And bubble tea isn't just back - it's playing ambassador to a whole host of other foods and trends.

The tea-based drink is also known as pearl milk tea or boba milk tea and is a refreshing alternative to your typical milkshake or fizzy cordial during the warmer months. These unusual teas come as a fruit, milk or tea base blended with ice and come with small chewy tapioca balls, also known as 'bubbles' or 'pearls'.

According to Hot 100 FM, the beverage enjoyed a brief moment of popularity in major metropolitan areas in the late aughts, popping up on college campuses or near communities with large Asian populations. (One such place, in New York City's Union Square, even had a lofted DJ booth.) But the trend dried up quickly.

"What we saw before was a segment that didn't grow," says Andrew Chau, co-founder of the popular chain Boba Guys, which has three stores - in San Francisco and New York City. He explains that a majority of these shops opened next door or down the street from existing stores. "They were all stealing customers from each other, and no one made money."

But now there is this new Boba 2.0.

Boba Guys' model puts its ingredients front and center. The chain uses organic milk and sources its own teas. Its jellies (lightly gummy substitutes for the tapioca pearls) are made in house. And there are plans to begin testing house-made tapioca pearls in the near future as well. Bubble Tea chains like Boba Guys aren't married to the original recipe. And some experiments, like horchata boba tea, have no tea in them at all.

Some boba purveyors are even trying to lure cocktail lovers. Called Boba 7, the backroom serves boba cocktails made with beer or the Korean alcohol soju, in addition to an inventive nonalcoholic menu.

"They would take exciting boba drinks, pour some shots in there, and think that's what makes it a cocktail," Keung says. "That just makes it worse."

Bringing in different trends, cultures and age-groups is what Boba 2.0 is all about. "If we're going to bridge cultures, we want to bring the best of the West and the best of the East," says Chau.
Tough times are ahead for all California-based restaurants. A minimum wage initiative will be voted on this coming November which will elevate the state's minimum wage gradually from the current $10 an hour to $15 an hour.

A coalition named Lift Up America was able to secure enough signature from its members to qualify for a ballot on its wage proposal according to a Restaurant Business Online article by Peter Romeo. Under this proposal, the minimum wage, which is currently at $10 per hour, will be increased by $1 per year starting 2017 until it will reach it becomes $15 an hour by 2021. This minimum wage initiative, named Fair Wage Act of 2016", is backed by California's Service Employees International Union - United Healthcare Workers (SEIU-UHW) according to Ballotpedia.

However, there is a competing $15 per hour minimum wage initiative as well. A broader-based SEIU faction is still collecting the required signatures to put the initiated on the ballot according to Restaurant Business Online. Named "Raise California's Wage and Paid Sick Day Act of 2016", the initiative also requires business to give $15 an hour as minimum wage by 2020 while smaller business or those with below 25 employees will be given until 2021 to reach the minimum wage. In addition, it requires six paid sick leaves per year for each employee.

If the second proposal gets the required signatures, the initiative will get its chance to be voted on. However, if both proposals reach the ballot and are approved, the initiative with the most "Yes" votes will prevail according to Ballotpedia.

Regardless of which proposal gets the approval, it is seen as a severe blow to California's restaurants according to Restaurant Business Online. In addition, it would create a wider gap between the rates of servers and kitchen staff. Serving jobs are more lucrative because California does not have a tip credit and as a result, waiters and waitresses collect both full minimum wage and the tips from customers.

And the idea is not well-liked by some business groups who argues that such a high minimum wage would end up harming small businesses accord to a Fortune article by Reuters.

Research Director Michael Saltsman of the Employment Policies Institute calls in irresponsible. Saltsman says that the proposed massive jumps in minimum wage could no longer be viewed as impacting the businesses' margins. Instead, it could be the factor that determines whether a business stays open or should fold up.
A man spent $1000 for a ranch dressing in Dallas, Texas. In 2014, Cane Rosso, a Dallas pizzeria made viral headlines when they displayed and charged $1000 for a Hidden Valley ranch dressing. Since then, the overpriced dressing stayed on display because no one dared shell out a thousand dollars for a bottle of ranch dressing. And to the surprise of many, the famous dressing was sold last Monday.

It all started as a joke when Cane Rosso pizzeria owner, Jay Jerrier thought it would be fun to hang a huge ranch dressing in their shop and labels the price at $1000. "It's weird, it always seems to be young, college-age girls that ask for it," said Jerrier in an interview with Eater.

Although it only costs $2 to $3 dollars in a grocery store, a man still purchased the dressing for a staggering $1000. Josh Tipton admitted that he had his eye on the ranch. "It's so legendary. I've kind of always thought about buying it. I never thought I'd have the opportunity to," Tipton said in an interview with KTVT-TV. In a report by NBC4i, Beth Moore of Cane Rosso said: "Never in a million years did we think someone was actually going to buy the bottle of ranch".

The ranch dressing might have been over-priced, but it was sold for a good reason. A fire at Humane Society where dogs were killed inspired the restaurant to ask for donations. That's when Tipton, a dog owner himself, said it was finally time to buy that old bottle of ranch.

It turns out the man who bought the ranch, is not out of his mind after all. It's a donation drive for the benefit of Humane Society and it sure looks like it was worth it. "Only in Texas, only in Dallas could you spend $1,000 on a bottle of ranch," said Tipton in NBC4i report.

Tipton, who bought the ranch wanted to make an impact. He wanted to be an inspiration so that people can follow his lead in giving help where it is needed.
A lot of buzz has been created lately with New Jersey's so-called "cookie" bill as it is seen as way residents of the Garden State can legally sell baked goodies from their kitchens. However, a New Jersey state senator just won't budge in his taken stance opposing the bill saying he would not be changing his stand anytime soon.

New Jersey State Senator Joseph Vitale said that "there are public safety and public health concerns" to the proposed bill according to a Food Safety News article. For these reasons, Sen. Vitale who is also the chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee has blocked the voting of the bill in the state Senate, after it had been approved twice by the Assembly, New Jersey's lower chamber.

New Jersey State Senator Christopher Bateman who introduced the bakers' bill last January explained to the Associated Press that the passage of the bill should not affect small business bakers. This is because there are provisions in the legislation that restrict homemade goods sales.

In addition, Senator Bateman argues that food safety concerns are address in the bill as well. The bill only allows the sale of specific baked goods - those that do not require temperature control and time to limit the formation of toxins and growth of pathogens.

In the bill, home-baked goods are defined as bakery goods that were prepared in a private kitchen not subject to regulation or inspection by the Department of Health. The only requirement is that the consumer has to be made aware at the point of sale that it is a home-baked item by way of a visible placard. However, the food item itself need not be labeled.

Apparently, only two states have a complete ban on cottage food industry or the selling of homemade food. These are New Jersey and Wisconsin.

But even in states where selling of homemade good is legalized, some of the laws governing this area can be pretty restrictive according to an article in the Institute of Justice written by Nick Sibilla. For example, the article cites a Minnesota rule that only allow home baked goods sale of up to $5,000 per year, which is a just less than $100 per week.
Every year during March, OnMilwaukee celebrates their "Bar Month". They tally and announce the best drink in their neighborhood. This year, Wicked Hop's Bloody Mary was proclaimed the "Best Milwaukee Drink of 2016".

On Milwaukee recently launched their month-long celebration. "Bar Month at OnMilwaukee is back for another round, brought to you by Great Northern Distilling: grain to glass spirits, handmade in Wisconsin. The whole month of March, we're serving up intoxicatingly fun articles on bars and clubs - including guides, the latest trends, bar reviews, the results of our Best of Bars reader's poll and more."

On Milwaukee lists down the best bars in their neighborhood, that's why they found it necessary to tally and announce the best drink in Milwaukee during their "Bar Month". This year the best Milwaukee drink was added to the category and The Wicked Hop's Bloody Mary emerged as the winner.

Located on the corner of St. Paul and Broadway near the Milwaukee public market, you'll find The Wicked Hop. They take pride in their Bloody Mary which is voted as the reader's choice of Shepherd Express aside from the Best Milwaukee drink award from OnMilwaukee.

On Tuesday, everyone can try their Bloody Mary for a promotional price of $5. But The Wicked Hop offers full week of promotions and it is as follows:

Sunday Funday - $3 Smirnoff bombs, $5 tall

Monday - All Day Hoppy Hour 11am to 11pm - $1 off all taps and bottle beer, $3 Mexican Beer and $5 Margaritas

Wednesday - Half off Jack Daniel's drinks from 7pm

Thursday - Drink Local

Friday - Get Rich Friday Featuring D.J. E. Rich and $5 Stoli Sailor calls

But you can never run out of choices when in Milwaukee. OnMilwaukee editors also released their editor's pick which is the Old Fashioned from Packing House.

Runners-up from this year's Bar Month are the following drinks from their respective restaurants:

2. Old Fashioned from Packing House

3. Mittenfest Korbel Old Fashioned from Burnhearts

4. Milwaukee Mule from Camp Bar

5. Spy's Demise from Safe House
Emoji's online presence can now be shared in the real world. Lindt produces milk chocolate discs inspired by your smartphone emoticons. The HELLO Emoji chocolates are coming to the United States this June but for those living in Germany, Switzerland, Austria and South Africa - they can already have bites of these smiley faces.

The premium confectionery company is the first to release edible emojis for chocolate fans. DIY bakers no longer need to frost their cupcakes to create emoji faces as these discs feature five 'happy thoughts' on its packaging including "Be Happy", "My heart goes boom", and "Just Too Funny." Mashable took pictures of the whole happy team.

This emojis is not only delicious but also Instagram ready as the #Lindtemoji hashtag becomes viral. Each choco disc is wrapped with the iconic yellow packaging - featuring a stick back to attach it to your glass or a gift box. Milk chocolate HELLO emoji from Lindt will be sold at $1.29 each.

Before Emojis, Lindt's HELLO has sweetened chocolate shelves with its popular products including HELLO Pretzel Bites, HELLO Chocolate Bars, and HELLO Sticks - all in delicious flavors. For the past decades, the master of chocolatier has its profit growth above the chocolate markets. It dominates North America and still progressing in Asia and Australia markets.

About Lindt & Sprungli company

Lindt was found by David Sprungli-Schwarz in 1845 - an innovative confectioner that combined fashionable Italian recipes for chocolates in Zurich. Together with the chocolate maker, Rodolphe Lindt, they manufactured premium chocolate that's characterized by the distinct aroma. Lindt is famous for its Swiss 'melting' chocolate and contributes to worldwide confectionary market.

Lindt's farming program also contributes to the sustainability of clean drinking water in Africa by increasing the life quality of Ghana's cocoa farmers and improving the drinking supply. The company is actively involved in ensuring the access to clean water supply by partnering up with local, Source Trust.
Here is a caution for all food aficionados. If you have an appetite for good food, even the scammers do. In fact, scammers across the world are preying on your appetites. A recent report states that some scammers are advertising fake food festivals on sites like Facebook and Groupon as well as in local radio stations and print media.

All such advertisements seem to be genuine and the ticket prices are tempting. Recently an invitation to a food festival on Facebook promoted $49 tickets for "all-you-can-eat crab, salad, pasta, bread, and desserts" at a recent "Hot Garlic Crab Feed Houston." The ad also touted $99 for VIP tickets offering an additional helping of steak. Aficionados of food festival clicked on the link to purchase tickets and also fed their credit card numbers.

However, when they turned up at the food festival "venue," there was nothing: no event, no festival, and no explanation. The only indication of the supposed "food festival" was a confused crowd of food connoisseurs who had been tricked to cough up their money in a similar manner, Consumer Reports said.

According to the report, several such fake advertisements including "Hot Garlic Crab Feed,"The Super Crab Festival," and "The Dungeness Crab Association" and similarly dubious events came out in 21 cities across the United States during the last three months alone. The fake festivals, which began in the San Francisco Bay Area, gradually moved down south to Los Angeles, extended to Phoenix and Houston, and are currently being touted in Charlotte, North Carolina and Philadelphia.

The scam is not just restricted to food festivals, but also flower exhibitions. Recently, the Dundee City Council was targeted by international fraudsters who wanted the council to include a fake flower and food festival in their list of events. The council received a letter from a company calling itself the International Fairs Directory, asking for it to confirm details about the annual Camperdown Park festival for inclusion in a listings directory.

While the letter did not ask for any money, the small print said signing and returning the form commits to paying 1212 (just below 1,000) a year for the next three years. The letter, what is known as a directory scam, a swindle that is believed to have its origin in Central or South America, The Courier UK reported.

It is always possible to battle fraudulent charges with your bank or credit card company's help, it is best to avoid them. Below are a few guidelines that will help you protect yourself from such fraudsters.

Scrutinize the ticketing website to find if it looks professional or messy. If it is slapdash, you will notice some of the words on the Web URL are truncated and along with plenty of grammatical errors throughout the linked pages.

Suspect the redirect. When you click on a link for a food festival, be guarded if you are redirected to an unrelated site to "buy" tickets.

Verify the contact information. In the case of a phony festival, the telephone number would not work. Even the email address would bounce your inquiry back.

Since fraudsters are always looking for new methods to trick you, remain alert and do some research before handing over your credit card number.
TransCanada (TRP 2.62%) has certainly faced its share of challenges over the past few years. This is the company that spent six years trying to get the Keystone XL oil pipeline project approved only to face such intense opposition that it was eventually rejected. While it wasn't able to overcome that challenge, it hopes to have success in overcoming a number of additional challenges it's facing right now.

No. 1: Overcoming opposition to Energy East

When progress stalled on the southbound Keystone XL pipeline, TransCanada turned its attention to the east by proposing to build the Energy East pipeline. The project would convert a vast swath of underutilized natural gas pipeline for oil services to move oil from the country's western oil sands region to refineries and an oil export terminal along the country's eastern coast.

That project, however, has run into its own share of road blocks. Heavy natural gas users in the eastern part of the country are concerned that by converting natural gas pipelines to oil service, they will see higher prices for gas. They are voicing their opposition to the project, which is putting it in jeopardy. Convincing the opposition and government regulators that the project is in the country's best interest is a big challenge that TransCanada needs to overcome.

No. 2: Finding the cash it needs to fund its recent acquisition

With Keystone XL rejected and major opposition to Energy East, TransCanada has turned to acquisitions to drive growth, recently announcing that it would acquire U.S. based Columbia Pipeline Group (NYSE: CPGX). It was an all-cash deal valuing Columbia Pipeline group at $13 billion, including the assumption of debt. In going the all-cash route, TransCanada has had to seek outside funding for the deal.

To date, it has secured $4.21 billion via a brought deal offering, which is a good start. However, it's still several billion dollars short, which could be a problem given that capital markets have started to close their doors to energy companies in recent months. Because of that, the company is exploring a range of options to fund the deal, including exploring asset sales. According to reports, the company is working with banks to sell upwards of $7.1 billion in assets, including its power assets and a minority stake in its Mexican natural gas pipeline business.

That said, the timing for asset sales might not be right given the currently weak market conditions. In fact, analysts think the company, which paid $2.9 billion for some of its power assets in 2008, might only be able to fetch $1.98 billion for them today. Suffice it to say, finding the cash to fund this deal in the current market environment is a big challenge.

No. 3: Overcoming obstacles in the west

In 2012, TransCanada was selected by Royal Dutch Shell (RDS.A) (RDS.B) and its partners to develop a multibillion-dollar natural gas pipeline to Canada's West Coast. The Coastal GasLink project was expected to cost $4 billion and link gas from the Montney region to Shell's proposed LNG export facility near Kitimat B.C. called LNG Canada. A year later, it was selected by another LNG project to develop a $6 billion natural gas infrastructure project. That project included the $5 billion Prince Rupert Gas Transmission project, which would also bring gas from the Montney region to the West Coast to serve the Pacific NorthWest LNG project near Price Rupert, B.C.

However, amid sagging support and slumping commodity prices, Shell recently pressed pause on its $50 billion LNG Canada project. Likewise, Pacific NorthWest LNG continues to face delays, which has pushed back that project's timeline. Given these delays and current commodity prices, it's possible neither project will be built for quite some time, if at all. That puts TransCanada's multibillion-dollar western expansion projects in jeopardy, which is another big challenge for the company to overcome.

Investor takeaway

TransCanada is facing a number of big challenges, which have the potential to derail its growth. That said, the company has been knocked down by challenges before, only to get back up and move in a different direction. It will need to continue to either overcome challenges, or quickly change course in order to deliver the robust dividend growth its investors are expecting to see over the long term.
Ask almost any American citizen when tax day is, and you're likely to hear "April 15th". While this is normally the day that taxes are due, that isn't the case this year. With that in mind, here are the "Big Three" dates to remember this year.

April 18, 2016

No, April 15 doesn't fall on a weekend this year. So why do your taxes need to be filed -- and your outstanding balance paid -- three days latet this year? Because in Washington, DC -- and DC only -- April 15th is a holiday this year: Emancipation Day.

This celebrates the day that Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed over 3,000 slaves living in the District of Colombia, well before the universally known Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Usually this falls on April 16, the day Lincoln signed the Act. But that falls on a Saturday this year, and by law, it needs to be celebrated on the nearest weekday.

Not only should you file and pay for any outstanding balance on your taxes, but if you need an extension, you must file Form 4868 before April 18.

October 17, 2016

If you were able to file for your extension in time, this is the new date by which you must file your taxes and pay any outstanding balances. Like the "normal" tax day, this usually falls on October 15, but because that is a Saturday this year, October 17 is the new date.

April 15, 2019

Double-check that year again so you understand what we're talking about here. It's not a misprint: it's supposed to say "2019." If you go back and read over the two previous dates, you'll see that I wrote "pay for any outstanding balance." That's because if you're actually owed a refund, the Treasury gives you three more years to file your taxes in order to claim it.

Of course, the Department has good reason for doing this: by waiting three years to claim your refund, you are giving the government an interest-free loan over a very long time period. But be careful, waiting this long will only work in your favor if you are certain that you'll be owed a refund. If you calculated wrong, the penalties for being three years late can be very hefty -- and this situation should be avoided in general if you want to stay out of hot water.

Don't forget: a refund isn't necessarily a "good" thing

With this year's tax date less than one month away, and the current tax year almost one-quarter finished, it's good to remind readers that a refund isn't as great as it might make you feel. In the end, it means that more money was taken out of your regular paycheck than needed to be. As a result, you missed the opportunity to invest whatever that difference is. Compounded over your entire working life, this could make a big difference in your retirement savings.
The stock market has gone through a topsy-turvy quarter, and even though it's close to unchanged from the beginning of 2016, the volatility it has given investors has been a wake-up call to anyone who expected a smooth ride going forward. Monday's trading activity was relatively calm, with most major market benchmarks closing with only very modest moves. Even after the big bounce that stocks have seen over the past month, investors remain uncertain about key elements of future economic growth, and some individual stocks continue to be particularly troubling for investors. Among them are Valeant Pharmaceuticals (BHC 4.84%), Pandora Media (P), and PJT Partners (PJT 3.00%), all of which posted substantial declines on Monday.

Valeant Pharmaceuticals fell 7% after the latest bad news to hit the drug company. On Monday, investors found out that outgoing CEO Michael Pearson had received a subpoena to testify at a hearing on April 27 before the Senate Special Committee on Aging in Washington, D.C. The committee has looked at a number of different situations involving high drug prices, and controversial pharmaceutical industry player Martin Shkreli is perhaps the best-known among those called before the panel. Pricing of prescription drugs has become a key issue in the current Presidential election, and Valeant has been at the epicenter of debate over pricing practices in the industry. With activist investor Bill Ackman taking a leadership role on Valeant's board, investors hope that the company will be able to weather the political storm and recover some of its lost ground in time.

Pandora Media dropped 12%, giving up all of its gains from Friday. The streaming-music specialist announced this morning that founder Tim Westergren would take over the reins as CEO at Pandora, positioning the move as a way "to accelerate the company's growth strategy." In Westergren's words, "We're on the cusp of realizing an extraordinary vision: fundamentally changing the way listeners discover and enjoy music and the way artists build and sustain their careers." Yet investors weren't happy that Pandora didn't explicitly address the reasons why departing CEO Brian McAndrews was leaving the company. Moreover, it's unclear how the strategic move will help Pandora be more competitive with its rivals in the industry, all of which share the pressures of maintaining profitability while spending enough to attract and retain customers.

Finally, PJT Partners finished the day down 11%. The advisory-focused investment bank saw its stock fall after a partner of the company was charged with criminal securities fraud and wire fraud offenses. The SEC also filed a civil action against Andrew Caspersen, who worked for PJT unit Park Hill Group. PJT Partners terminated Caspersen for cause, issuing a statement Monday afternoon that it had begun an internal investigation of the matter and "brought the matter to the attention of the U.S. Attorney's Office in Manhattan" as part of its cooperation with law enforcement officials. Nevertheless, with the lawsuits alleging losses of $95 million, investors are worried that insurance coverage and other resources that PJT Partners has to offset any liability might prove insufficient to prevent losses entirely.
The title of Worst Run Technology Company has been such a hotly contested battle between Yahoo and HP for so long, I cant even remember a time when it was otherwise. Those two names are so far ahead of the pack in the losing field, I dont think I could come up with a third in their class if my life depended on it.

HPs recent split does sort of complicate things, but since Meg Whitman somehow managed to end up with leadership positions at both HP Enterprise (CEO) and HP Inc. (chairman), naming her the Worst CEO of 2015 was sort of a no-brainer.

But then, Yahoo chief executive Marissa Mayer was no slouch. She came in third, just behind Wal-Mart CEO Doug McMillon. And now I have to say that Mayer looks determined to give Whitman a real run for her money in 2016. Shes definitely off to a rip-roaring start.

Last week, activist investor Jeff Smith of Starboard Capital finally gave up on the former Google executive and Yahoos chronically dysfunctional board and started a proxy battle to oust all nine directors and install his own slate at the companys annual meeting, presumably in June. How fun.

If this little mini-drama sounds at all familiar, thats probably because its a recurring theme  or nightmare, if youre a Yahoo investor. Every four years like clockwork  every leap year, actually  an activist investor attempts a board coup. And every four years like clockwork, Yahoos leadership cooperates by giving them ample ammunition to win.

In 2008, Carl Icahn sought to oust CEO Jerry Yang and chairman Roy Bostock after their remarkably incompetent handling of a sweet acquisition bid by Microsoft. The pair botched the deal, shares plummeted and Icahn landed three board seats. Yang resigned but, like a nasty infection that refuses to die, Bostock survived long enough to make two fateful CEO hires.

Carol Bartz was the first, but after a tumultuous 32-month rein that saw her turn over Yahoos only viable growth business, its search engine, to Microsoft, Bostock picked up the phone and fired the famously foul-mouthed executive.

At that point, the chairman did what so many do after a long and painful relationship goes south: He did a one eighty and hired Bartzs opposite, a mild-mannered former PayPal executive named Scott Thompson (not to be confused with the stand-up comic known as Carrot Top).

By then it was 2012 and you know what that means. Dan Loeb of Third Point became the second activist investor to see an opportunity, take a stake in Yahoo and start a proxy battle. And like Icahn before him, the ever-resourceful Loeb found just what he needed. It seemed that Thompson had fudged his resume, claiming to have a computer science degree he did not in fact have. And after five short months, he too was gone.

And that marked the end of the line for Bostock. Loeb got his three board seats and helped to bring the glitzy Mayer to the still flailing Internet company. Mayer has the distinction of having lasted longer than any of her predecessors. Shes certainly been a busy little bee over the past three years and change:

She revamped every one of the companys top Internet properties  from Yahoo News and Finance to Mail and Flickr. She even hired Katie Couric. All to no avail.

She spent billions on dozens of Internet startups to acqui-hire her way out of Yahoos tailspin, and has since written off most of those acquisitions.

She attempted a spinoff of the companys Alibaba assets and then, a year later, changed her mind and decided to go for the exact opposite: a reverse spinoff of Yahoos core search and display advertising business. Oh yes she did.

She came up with strategic plan after strategic plan, taking the company into mobile, reinvesting in search, even coming up with a weird acronym she pretends is not an acronym called Mavens (dont ask). She hired and fired pricey executives, and made a fortune for herself in the process.

And then, finally, when push came to shove, she hired McKinsey, restructured, and dressed the company up for sale. Well, sort of. According to Starboards letter to Yahoo shareholders, the board is dragging its feet on that, as well. They certainly have a point. Enough is enough.

And if for some odd reason thats not enough, Mayer says she wants three more years to turn the company around. Youve got to admit, thats a good one.

Even if, in light of all this companys investors have been through, that made any sense whatsoever, Mayer forgot one very important fact. Its 2016. And that means its another leap year, another dysfunctional board, another failed turnaround, another activist investor and another proxy battle.

It also means that, come this summer if not sooner, Mayer could end up as just another victim of Yahoos Leap Year Curse.

P.S. The funny thing is, if Yang and Bostock had just sold the company to Microsoft for $44 billion back in 2008, shareholders would have had $11 billion more than the company is worth today. But then, we would have missed out on all this fun. I call it a wash.
Image source: Medicare.gov.

Social Security and Medicare together provide a huge portion of the financial support that people need during retirement. Yet the rules for claiming benefits from the two programs are different, and so one natural question to ask is whether you can claim Social Security and Medicare at the same time. When the timing works out correctly, the answer is yes, but the two programs also try to integrate their processes to handle situations in which you need to claim your benefits at different times.

The timing of Social Security and MedicareThe first hurdle to claiming Social Security and Medicare simultaneously is whether you're eligible for both programs. For most people, Medicare coverage kicks in at age 65, and applications for the program are accepted up to three months before your 65th birthday.

By contrast, the age of Social Security eligibility differs depending on your circumstances. Workers claiming benefits on their own work record can claim as early as age 62. You can claim spousal benefits at age 62 as well, but only if your spouse has applied for retirement benefits by that time. Otherwise, you have to wait for your spouse to claim Social Security before your spousal benefits can kick in.

Automatic enrollment in MedicareIn most cases, if you start receiving Social Security benefits before reaching 65, then you'll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B as of when you turn 65. You should expect to get your Medicare card three months before your 65th birthday. As a result, even though you technically didn't apply for the programs at the same time, your Social Security application started the process for automatic Medicare benefits to begin at the appropriate time.

If you start taking Social Security at 65, the Social Security Administration's process allows you to apply for Social Security and Medicare benefits on the same application. The SSA gathers necessary information for both programs and works with Medicare's agency to coordinate benefits.

Getting Medicare before you claim Social SecurityThe most common situation in which you have to apply for Medicare benefits separately is if you choose not to receive Social Security until after age 65. If you're still working and are covered by health insurance at work, you might be able to put off claiming Medicare until after age 65 without paying a penalty, and that could allow you to coordinate your Social Security and Medicare benefits when you retire at a later age.

Claiming Medicare by itself is an option for those who want their Medicare benefits while deferring their Social Security benefits until a later date. The SSA provides a method for applying for Medicare only, gathering the necessary information on behalf of Medicare. Later on, when you decide to begin your Social Security benefits, you can take advantage of coordination to have Medicare premium payments deducted from your monthly Social Security check.

Special situationsFinally, although the discussion above focuses on common retirement scenarios, there are other situations in which Medicare and Social Security eligibility follows different rules. For instance, those who become disabled will automatically get Medicare coverage under Parts A and B after they've received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months. Those with special conditions such as ALS automatically get Medicare coverage immediately upon receiving disability benefits from Social Security.

Because Social Security and Medicare are so closely linked to financial security in retirement, the SSA and Medicare's agency work together to make the process of applying for benefits as streamlined as possible. Many people are able to file once and get both benefits lined up either for current or future use.

The article Can I Claim Social Security and Medicare at the Same Time? originally appeared on Fool.com.

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Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Japan's NTT Data said Monday that it has agreed to buy Dell's information-technology-services division for $3.05 billion, its latest effort to seek growth overseas.

The deal would mark one of the largest foreign buyouts in recent years for NTT Data, whose operations span fixed-line and mobile telecommunications as well as IT services. Faced with sluggish growth at home, many Japanese companies are turning to overseas acquisitions.

The move would enable Dell, which is in the process of acquiring storage vendor EMC Corp. for tens of billions of dollars, to raise cash to help finance that deal.

NTT Data said the acquisition would significantly increase its presence in North America and strengthen and expand its global delivery network.

"There are few acquisition targets in our market that provide this type of unique opportunity to increase our competitiveness and the depth of our market offerings," NTT Data CEO John McCain said.

"Dell Services is a very well-run business and we believe its employee base, long-standing client relationships, and the mix of long term and project-based work will enhance our portfolio."

NTT Data is the IT-services and consulting division of Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp., which also controls Japan's biggest mobile carrier, NTT DoCoMo Inc. The group has said it hopes to raise the overseas portion of its revenue to around $22 billion by the year ending March 2018, from around $15 billion in the last fiscal year.

In 2010, NTT acquired South African IT company Dimension Data Holdings PLC for $3.2 billion and U.S. IT-services firm Keane Inc. for an estimated $1.4 billion.

Dell's IT-consulting division, formerly known as Perot Systems, was founded by former U.S. presidential candidate Ross Perot and sold in 2009 to Dell for $3.9 billion.

Write to Alexander Martin at alexander.martin@wsj.com
Elaine Wynn, former wife of Wynn Resorts Ltd (NASDAQ:WYNN) founder Steve Wynn, sued him on Monday to get control over her nearly 10 percent stake, worth close to $900 million, in the casino company.

Escalating a battle that followed a bitter divorce, Elaine Wynn said Steve Wynn breached a 2010 stockholder agreement by engineering her ouster from the company's board last April after she faulted its internal controls, his alleged withholding of information from the board, and the "tone at the top."

In papers filed with a state court in Clark County, Nevada, Elaine Wynn is seeking to void the agreement so she can take control of her Wynn Resorts stake, plan her estate to benefit her daughters, and stop Steve Wynn from misusing the agreement to exert "full and perpetual control" over her life and legacy.

Elaine Wynn controls 9.4 percent of Wynn Resorts' stock, while Steve Wynn controls 11.8 percent, Reuters data show.

Steve Wynn, through a spokesman, called Elaine Wynn "a disappointed ex-wife who is seeking to tarnish the reputation of Wynn Resorts and Steve Wynn and their daughters," and said her lawsuit was "filled with lies and distortions."

In a separate statement, Wynn Resorts accused Elaine Wynn of making "falsehoods and distortions," and said her allegations that the company misused assets were without merit.

Wynn Resorts controls properties including the Wynn Las Vegas resort, Encore at Wynn Las Vegas and Wynn Macau.

Steve Wynn, 74, also helped develop other Las Vegas hotels including the Bellagio, the Mirage and Treasure Island.

He is worth $2.7 billion, while Elaine Wynn, 73, is worth $1.5 billion, according to Forbes magazine.

The Wynns married in 1963, divorced in 1986, remarried in 1991, and divorced again in 2010, court papers show.

Elaine Wynn's lawsuit also names as defendants Wynn Resorts and General Counsel Kimmarie Sinatra.

It seeks compensatory and punitive damages, including for Steve Wynn's alleged failure to support Elaine Wynn's reelection to the board.

The lawsuit was filed as a counterclaim to a 2012 lawsuit by Wynn Resorts against defendants including Kazuo Okada, a Japanese billionaire.

Okada owned 20 percent of Wynn Resorts before the company forcibly redeemed his stake in 2012. He and Wynn Resorts have traded allegations of illegal conduct in later U.S. litigation.

Wynn Resorts shares closed down 64 cents at $92.83 in Monday trading on the Nasdaq.

The case is Wynn Resorts Ltd v Okada et al, Nevada District Court, Clark County, No. A-12-656710-B.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel and Anya George Tharakan in Bengaluru; Editing by Kirti Pandey and David Gregorio)
Image Source: Vice.

So far, Apple's strategy to drive new subscribers to Apple Music can be more or less boiled down to a single point: original content. And as the massive shifts within the music industry continues to unfold, Apple recently inked another original content deal with none other than Vice Media.

Vice Media comes to Apple MusicRecently, news broke that Apple and Canadian-American media outlet Vice Media had reached a deal to make Vice's documentary series,The Score, available exclusively through Apple Media.

The six-episode series will purportedly delve into some of the most far-flung and interesting music scenes in the world. The first episode chronicles members of the fledgling hip-hop scene among the Ojibwe Native American tribe in Minnesota.

This move largely mimics Apple's other recent original content moves. In addition to The Score, it was earlier reported that Apple had financed the music video for Drake's Hotling Bling single, and Taylor Swift's 1989 documentary, which follows the pop star while on tour.

Crucially, Apple required both content pieces remain exclusively, at least for a certain length of time, on Apple Music, as part of its financing agreements. Likewise, The Scoreis only available for Apple Music subscribers.

Additionally, word surfaced last month that Apple is also quietly developing its first original TV series with hip hop legend and Apple executive Dr. Dre under the working title Vital Signs. In sum, these moves pretty clearly demonstrate Apple Music's strategy to acquire users bait them with exclusive content. But is it working?

Strategy success? In considering whether its exclusive content strategy remains the correct course of action, it seems like Apple, with all its marketing muscle, is capable of making a more-concerted push to popularize its new streaming music service.

image Source: Apple.

It doesn't appear that Apple is making anything even remotely approaching a concerted effort to publicize its exclusive content offerings, which is particularly troublesome. Granted, Apple's total log of exclusive content, some of which has become publicly available more recently, totaled a paltry three offerings. That doesn't provide much in the way of fodder around which Apple could create a marketing campaign. However, Apple's overall lack of activity in both expanding its exclusive video content backlog and also promoting it suggests something isn't clicking at Apple Music.

The lack of urgency in executing its strategy also coincides with strong product development efforts from Apple's key streaming music rival, Spotify. Perhaps driven by its underdog status against Apple, Spotify has launched a number of impressive features, including in-app concert booking and a growing catalog of non-exclusive video content from the likes of ESPN, Comedy Central, MTV, the BBC, TED Talks, and many more.

Though it only debuted late last June, Apple Music has reportedly surpassed 11 million paying subscribers. Compared to Spotify's recently updated 30-million paying-memberfigure, Apple Music doesn't necessarily look like a flop. However, the corollary is that it doesn't look like a resounding success, either, especially because Apple already has more than 800 million iTunes accounts to which it can market Apple Music.

Perhaps the addition of Vice's new series represents the start of a more-concerted exclusive-content push on Apple's end. Only time will tell. However, based on the information available today, something seems off with Apple Music's marketing plan.

The article Inside Apple Inc's Weird Choice for Original Content originally appeared on Fool.com.

Andrew Tonner owns shares of Apple. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Apple. 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.
This year's "Tax Day" is later than normal. Here's why, and what the other dates to remember are. Photo: Simon Cunningham, via Flickr.

Ask almost any American citizen when tax day is, and you're likely to hear "April 15th". While this is normally the day that taxes are due, that isn't the case this year. With that in mind, here are the "Big Three" dates to remember this year.

April 18, 2016No, April 15 doesn't fall on a weekend this year. So why do your taxes need to be filed -- and your outstanding balance paid -- three days latet this year? Because in Washington, DC -- and DC only -- April 15th is a holiday this year: Emancipation Day.

This celebrates the day that Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed over 3,000 slaves living in the District of Colombia, well before the universally known Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Usually this falls on April 16, the day Lincoln signed the Act. But that falls on a Saturday this year, and by law, it needs to be celebrated on the nearest weekday.

Not only should you file and pay for any outstanding balance on your taxes, but if you need an extension, you must file Form 4868 before April 18.

October 17, 2016If you were able to file for your extension in time, this is the new date by which you must file your taxes and pay any outstanding balances. Like the "normal" tax day, this usually falls on October 15, but because that is a Saturday this year, October 17 is the new date.

April 15, 2019Double-check that year again so you understand what we're talking about here. It's not a misprint: it's supposed to say "2019." If you go back and read over the two previous dates, you'll see that I wrote "pay for any outstanding balance." That's because if you're actually owed a refund, the Treasury gives you three more years to file your taxes in order to claim it.

Of course, the Department has good reason for doing this: by waiting three years to claim your refund, you are giving the government an interest-free loan over a very long time period. But be careful, waiting this long will only work in your favor if you are certain that you'll be owed a refund. If you calculated wrong, the penalties for being three years late can be very hefty -- and this situation should be avoided in general if you want to stay out of hot water.

Don't forget: a refund isn't necessarily a "good" thingWith this year's tax date less than one month away, and the current tax year almost one-quarter finished, it's good to remind readers that a refund isn't as great as it might make you feel. In the end, it means that more money was taken out of your regular paycheck than needed to be. As a result, you missed the opportunity to invest whatever that difference is. Compounded over your entire working life, this could make a big difference in your retirement savings.

The article This Is the Absolute Last Day You Can File Your 2015 Taxes originally appeared on Fool.com.

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 Wisconsin primary is expected to be a crucial contest in the race for the Republican nomination, as all three candidates look to increase their delegate count to keep their bids ahead of a potential contested Republican convention.

With the GOP primary just one week from Tuesday, front-runner Donald Trump looks to expand his lead, Texas Senator Ted Cruz seeks to narrow the margin and Ohio Governor John Kasich could find himself in an influential position.

In an interview with the FOX Business Networks Varney & Co., host Stuart Varney presented the scenario to former Wisconsin Governor Scott McCallum of Kasich playing the kingmaker. Meaning, whoever receives Kasichs delegates and support  should he drop out of the race  would win the GOP presidential nomination.

The seat hes [Kasich] going for is the seat in the White House, McCallum said. Nobody runs to be a kingmaker. And in this case in particular, hes got many supporters who believe hes the unifier, would be the best person to serve as president of the United States.

McCallum, a Kasich supporter, expects a very close race between Trump and Cruz with Kasich running a strong third. The former governors home state of Wisconsin is pretty much split with Republican suburban areas negative towards Trump and rural areas more supportive of Cruz.

A lot of money is being put in, including in the state of Wisconsin, to prevent Donald Trump from having the number of delegates at the [GOP] convention, McCallum said. He continued to say, Theres a lot of money coming in basically telling people to vote for Cruz to be able to stop Trump.

McCallum says he would only support Donald Trump as the Republican nominee if Trump moves more to the middle and becomes a unifier.

Wisconsin is an open primary race, meaning registered voters from any political party can participate.
The 2016 GOP primary campaign can be summed up as a missed opportunity for the Republican Party. Quite simply, because it has ignored the cardinal rule in politics: Always respect the voter. Broken promises clearly have consequences.

Since the day he entered the race, Donald Trump has been the main focus of the media, the party establishment and the other candidates running for the nomination. Theres endless conversation about his no-holds-barred comments: what he said about building the wall, what he said about Muslim immigrants and horribly, calling the last Republican President a liar who should have been impeached.

Republican candidates allowed themselves to become wholly distracted by this, too. They looked on in horror at the prospect of having to run against Trump, turning their full energy and attention to responding to what Trump said. The most forgotten also-ran of this cycle, Governor Scott Walker, gets credit for being the first candidate to take Trump seriously. He got out early and called for others to do so for the good of the partyhe saw what the rest of the self-consumed candidates couldnt see, that Trump was headed to be the inevitable nominee without a massive course-correction from everyone in the race.

The party, or so-called establishment, has failed to realize the most important message. Its not about Trump and what hes saying. Its about what the voters are saying and how many are speaking.

Frank Luntz, the insightful pollster and Fox News contributor, hosted a session for the press, in which he displayed clips of each candidates shining and weakest moments. As he measured voter sentiment around each candidates positive and negative performance, a clear trend emerged regarding Donald Trump: His supporters, all from wide-ranging and disparate backgrounds, were willing to let him off the hook for even the worst possible statements. To put it bluntly: The only thing they hated more than what he said, were anything related to the establishment.

This is understandable. Why is it shocking to political elites that todays average voter is angry and not willing to continue to support a system that is failing them on multiple fronts? Clearly, we find fault with the President for helping create this incredibly polarizing environment in America, but our party has also spent eight years saying no instead of telling our voters how we get to yes. Many conservative media outlets have ginned up the base, without offering any realistic proposals or solutions, thus setting up false hope and outsized expectations. Weve forgotten broken promises have consequences.

Every attack focused on Trump is focused on him, instead of focusing on his voters. People know Trump isnt serious, yet these attacks do not work because his supporters simply dont care about Trump University or Trump Steaksthey care about someone understanding and feeling their pain. While we disagree with how Mr. Trump goes about empathizing with said pain, we recognize he was earliest and effective thus far at doing so.

While we condemn many of Trumps flagrant statements, we ask our party to examine our collective hearts and ask ourselves the uncomfortable question: why did his message work while the others failed? Why did the Presidential primary candidates ignore Governor Walkers call? Why did so many blatantly cozy up to Trump, refusing to take him head on last fall when it could have made a difference? In our quest for power, our arrogance has deceived us from understanding our voters when it mattered most.

No matter if Trump emerges from the convention as the nominee or not, the soul searching should begin. Talk of a party split is passeits already happened. For those who care about conservative principles and policies, we must admit the message hasnt worked and we cant just blame the President, we must look inward. As millennials who desperately care about the future of the country and party we will one day govern, we want the voters to know that we do care, we are listening, and we will learn from this election.

Our political discourse is entering dangerous territory. Whats more frightening are the serious issues at hand: ISISs continued attacks, Chinese aggression, an emboldened Iran, income inequality, a massive debt and looming entitlement crisis. The GOP would be well advised to start listening sooner rather than later to survive in the long game. Republican voters are demanding change across all areas of government, and theyre louder than ever.

Its time to start listening, or in the words of the Donald, keep losing.

Matthew Swift is the CEO and co-Founder of Concordia as well as the Founder of Opportunity.us.

Morgan Ortagus is the National Co-Chair of Maverick PAC and a former U.S. Diplomat.

These views are their own and not of their respective organizations.
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When 17-year-old Jacob Barnes walked into his neurosurgeons office in January 2012, he didnt look like a typical boy his age. In fact, at 5 feet 2 inches tall and around 145 pounds, and with a smooth face hed never needed to shave, Barnes looked more like he was 11.

Growing up, his relatively younger, scrawnier appearance had never bothered him much. But when Jacob was diagnosed with a rare congenital condition marked by a brain tumor on his pituitary gland mere months before, he and his familys concern surpassed that of a superficial basis.

Today, Jacob stands at 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighs about 241 pounds and can grow facial hair. After undergoing a minimally invasive procedure and regularly taking growth hormones, Jacob is healthy and developmentally back on track.

Now, I just kind of feel normal, 21-year-old Jacob, a junior at the University of Findlay, in Findlay, Ohio, told FoxNews.com.

Searching for answers

Barnes was diagnosed with craniopharyngioma in November 2011 after suffering from severe migraines since he was a young boy. The condition is diagnosed most commonly in children and affects function of the pituitary gland, which controls water balance, but also all the glands in the body like thyroid hormones, the adrenal glands, and sperm and prolactin production. Pea-sized, the pituitary gland is located at the bottom of the brain and the hypothalamus.

While vision loss is the most common early symptom of craniopharymgioma among older people, physical developmental delays, extreme thirst and frequent urination usually exhibit first in younger people with the condition.

All [Jacobs] hormones were really below average, Dr. Daniel Prevedello, an associate professor in the department of neurological surgery at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, told FoxNews.com, so his gland was not working at all.

Prevedello, who heads the centers Minimally Invasive Cranial Surgery Program and operated on Jacob, said he sees about five cases of craniopharyngioma a year. Usually, those cases are among children ages 6 to 12.

At that point, you figure out theyre not developing, Prevedello said. Most boys will develop at age of 12, 13, they start having the hair and their voice changes, so when you see someone at 13, 14 and not developing yet, and at 15 or 16, thats rare.

Jacobs mom, Deborah Barnes, who lives in Norwalk, Ohio, said migraines throughout youth were the only sign something may have been off with Jacob. Sometime during grade school, a neurologist gave him a prescription for them, but she couldnt recall the name of the medication. Jacob was otherwise healthy.

I wasnt really concerned until his freshman year of high school, Deborah, 59, told FoxNews.com. He was always shorter than most of the girls, and in class pictures he was always in the front row. Deborah added that Jacobs physical developments never impeded on his social life, and that he always had friends. Jacob agreed.

I was never one to be self-conscious about how I looked, Jacob said.

But in his junior year of high school, Jacob began having unbearable neck pains. One day after school, Deborah recalled him sitting on the recliner and crying because the pain was so intense.

I said, Thats enough, Im calling someone, Deborah remembered.

At the time, the Barnes family had begun seeing a new physician, who immediately suspected something was wrong based on Jacobs appearance relative to his age, and referred them to an endocrinologist. There, he got an MRI that revealed the 3.4-centimeter-wide brain tumor.

Cancer of course is the first thing you think, and [the endocrinologist] said its probably not cancer, Deborah recalled from the phone call one night over dinner. I was pretty upset, and Im sure he was scared.

Operating by camera

They traveled to Columbus to seek treatment at the Cleveland Clinic, where they could have undergone a craniotomy to extract the tumor, which posed a greater risk of compromising his eyesight from contact with the optic nerves, as those nerves are located directly below the pituitary gland. Performing a craniotomy involves surgically opening the skull and exposing the brain.

Doctors at the Cleveland Clinic referred Jacob to the Ohio Wexner Medical Center, where Prevedello and his team specialize in a minimally invasive procedure called the endoscopic endonasal approach, whereby they make a small incision and extract brain tumor through the nose. Prevedello is one of only a few neurosurgeons worldwide who uses this approach.

He and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor performed the 10-hour surgery on Jacob on Feb. 10, 2012. They used a camera, and several tools that can pass through the nostrils, including scissors, a suction kit, dissectors, a drill and an endoscope, which is akin to a small pen that acts like a microscope and a flashlight. The ENT drives the camera, and Prevedello watches the footage above the patient on a screen at the top of the room as he uses his two hands to dissect the tumor.

Prevedello said Jacobs surgery was uneventful, and he and the ENT were able to remove the entire tumor. Jacobs eyesight, which also had begun to suffer from his diagnosis, was also restored.

Jacob was in the hospital for four days and returned to school two weeks after he was discharged. He didnt take painkillers after surgery.

Prevedello said the fact Jacob responded well to the growth hormones was lucky and unique because sometimes, if the diagnosis is caught too late, individuals wont because their bones have already fully developed.

Staying positive about Jacobs future

For now, Jacob attends follow-up appointments with Prevedello once each December, when he gets an MRI and an X-ray of his hand to see how his growth platelets are progressing.

Because his pituitary gland is dead, he must also take about six medications to perform the functions the gland otherwise would. Those include a steroid for energy and immune support, levothyroxine to assist with thyroid production, desmopressin for diabetes insipidus, and nutropin, an injectable growth hormone.

My roommates say, I could never do that! Jacob said of the injections, which he self-administers every other day. I say, You get used to it if you dont have any options. Now, its just second nature.

Deborah said Jacob is now mouthier and happier since undergoing the surgery and taking growth hormones.

Hes not disrespectful, but he speaks up more, she said. He didnt before; he was kind of just a quiet kid.

Theres a 30 percent chance the tumor will return even with a successful surgery, Prevedello said. It commonly recurs among young people who take growth hormones.

These tumors have receptors to growth hormones, so if you take the hormones you increase the risk of it coming back, Prevedello explained.

But the Barnes family isnt worried about that just yet.

Deborah said despite Jacobs diagnosis, she considers their family lucky.

We feel blessed, she said. Ive lost two nephews who died at age 31 to diabetes and a nice who died of cancer at 19  if this is the worst thing we go through, I feel blessed.

Jacob said he tries not to let the potential for recurrence weigh on his mind. Plus, hes too busy being a typical junior college studentpassing his free time with his two roommates and playing video games in an on-campus club. Hes also studying hard hes slated to get his bachelors degree in computer science in spring 2017.

I always like to be optimistic, and I hope it (tumor recurrence) never happens, Jacob said, "but if it does, Ill get it taken care of as easy as last time.
In a class action lawsuit filed earlier this month in the U.S. District Court in Columbus multiple men allege Procter and Gambles Old Spice deodorant left them with severe skin reactions, including rashes and chemical burns.

The suit seeks more than $5 million in damages claiming that 13 Old Spice products affected hundreds, if not thousands, of consumers, Cincinnati.com reported.

The products include Old Spice Lionpride and Artic Force High Endurance deodorants.

Rodney Colley, of Alexandria, Virginia, filed the suit after he suffered rashes and burns after only a few uses of an Old Spice Deodorant, Cincinnati.com reported.

Multiple people whove claimed to suffer the same reaction have posted photos on social media and videos to YouTube.

Indeed, the problem is rampant, and rather than acknowledge the serious issue, Defendant is concealing it in order to continue selling the product and reaping windfall profits, court papers say.

Procter & Gamble spokesman Damon Jones told Cincinnati.com the products are safe to use and that the problems a small number of consumers are experiencing are skin reactions, not chemical burns, that are not exclusive to Old Spice.

We go to great lengths to ensure our products are safe to use, and tens of millions of men use this product with confidence and without incident every year," Jones said in a statement. "A small number of men may experience irritation due to alcohol sensitivity, a common ingredient across virtually all deodorant products. For men who have experienced a reaction to a deodorant, an antiperspirant may be a better option because they have a different formulation."

Jones said any Old Spice user with questions could call 1-800-677-7582.
Micah Ahern is about to turn 7 years old and is getting an extra special gift this year a trip to Hawaii with his family, courtesy of Make A Wish Foundation. Micah was diagnosed with cancer when he was 1 year old.

Micah was initially diagnosed with ganglioneuroblastoma, cancer that grows nerve tissue and was able to manage it with surgeries, Fox5 reported. But the cancer came back in 2013, when it had spread all over his body and into his bones.

The first-grader, who lives in Arlington, Texas, always seems to have strength enough for everyone, said his mother, Linda Ahern.

"He does everything with a smile on his face. He doesn't think his deal is a bad deal," Ahern told Fox5. He doesnt know that going to the hospital is not fun; he doesn't know that fighting cancer is a tough thing.

Micah had a party at his school, Ditto Elementary, on Friday to celebrate his upcoming trip.

Happy Easter! He is Risen! We are all checked in at the Cook Hotel! Our room is decorated for Hawaii and Micah's... Posted by Praying for Micah Ahern on Sunday, March 27, 2016

I get to learn how to surf, Micah told Fox5 of his trip next week.
As soon as the terror in Brussels ended, the post-terror rituals began. Photos and videos of the carnage emerged, victims were given names and faces and allies expressed their sorrow and pledged assistance. Citizens of Brussels, following the lead of New Yorkers after 9/11 and Parisians after two attacks last year, created shrines and odes to the dead.

In America, security ramped up as millions feared their cities would be next, and officials vowed to harden our defenses in the fight against Islamic State.

Unfortunately, the rituals also include President Obama doing something stupid.

After each atrocity, Obama acts weirdly detached, a pattern that continued after Brussels. His happy-go-lucky tourist antics in Cuba, followed by tango dancing in Argentina, provided a shocking contrast to fear at home and manhunts in Europe.

To continue reading Michael Goodwin's column in the New York Post, click here.
People might sense that Islamist terror is on the rise as they follow daily news reporting, but they might be shocked at how significantly it has spiraled in lethality and focus in a very short amount of time.

Deaths from jihadist assaults rose from an annual average of roughly 2,500 innocents per year from 2001 to 2006, to an average of 3,300 per year in 2007-2011, to 9,000 per year in 2012-2013 and to an average of more than 28,000 in 2014-2015.

Also, terrorist attacks were once limited to a few countries with no real nexus in the period from 2001 to 2006, suggesting that jihadists were striking targets of opportunity without much coordination or broader strategy.

Today ISIS claims two caliphates  one the size of Indiana in Iraq and Syria and the other along the Mediterranean coast in Libya  from which to expand its genocidal influence in the Middle East and Africa. Large areas of the African continent have also experienced tremendous mass slaughter from Islamist terror in recent years, led by ISIS affiliate Boko Haram.

The Investigative Project on Terrorism (IPT)  in a new analysis of global Islamist terror  identified these two alarming developments that have gone largely unreported and unnoticed.

The analysis confirms that the West has proven itself unable to develop and implement effective strategies to confront, contain and defeat ISIS or any of the 34 terrorist organizations that have pledged their allegiance to it.

The result is that deaths attributable to jihadists have increased by roughly 700 percent since 2011, and ISIS now has two caliphates (Iraq/Syria and Libya) from which it can threaten three continents: Asia, Africa and Europe.

It is a dangerous situation.

The causes are even more frightening. The neighborhoods where the West has most actively been engaged  Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen, Libya and Syria  are failed states.

Egypt, another country in which the West involved itself, nearly became a terrorist haven with a government dominated by the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood before the military overthrew it. Even so, it is still attempting to reclaim authority over parts of the Sinai Peninsula from terrorists.

Iraq, Yemen, Libya, and Syria each reflected some semblance of statehood by maintaining stability and suppressing violent elements within their borders prior to Western intervention. Afghanistan never had a strong functional administration, and Egypt is slowly reestablishing control over internal areas.

The West has demonstrated an ability to remove regimes relatively easily, but it has been unable to transition these countries toward stable governments that can maintain order and stability within their own borders.

Countries where the West has intervened in domestic affairs now feature three distinctions. They account for more than 55 percent of the total global casualties resulting from jihadist terror. They represent the core of the ISIS caliphates expanding their deadly activities into the rest of the Middle East, Africa and Europe. They are creating millions of refugees and untold suffering in the world today.

Additionally, with the notable exception of Algeria, Africa barely registered on the map of significant Islamist terror activity in 2001. Today, half of the 18 countries with the highest level of fatalities on the globe are located there.

The course of affairs will unfortunately continue to move in the wrong direction because Western leaders appear incapable of doing anything meaningful about it.

Today Iran directs Iraqs military. Saudi Arabia and Iran are fighting a proxy war in Yemen. The U.S. has returned to Libya to conduct air strikes with fighter jets and drones against ISIS. Peace talks in Syria fall apart nearly daily.

Western military and security services discuss their progress against either of the caliphates, but they do not appear willing to commit the short-term resources necessary to completely eradicate them.

They need to recognize the magnitude of the defeat that it is facing and develop bipartisan solutions that will diminish and eliminate the swelling threat.

Half-hearted measures are not the answer.
A gunman was shot by Capitol Police Monday afternoon and later taken into custody, officials said, after drawing a weapon on officers at the tourist-heavy U.S. Capitol Visitor Center  an incident that sent the Capitol complex and the White House into lockdown.

U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said one bystander was injured, though apparently not severely, in the incident.

Speaking to reporters, Verderosa also corrected initial reports that a U.S. Capitol Police officer had been shot. The police chief said no officers were injured.

There is no reason to believe that this is anything more than a criminal act, he said.

The chiefs brief comments helped bring some measure of clarity to the confusion on Capitol Hill, two hours after reports first surfaced of shots being fired  all occurring a week after the Brussels terror attack put major cities around the world on high alert.

The chief said the suspect was transported to the hospital and is undergoing surgery. His condition is unknown at this time, he said.

Fox News is told the suspect has been identified as Larry Dawson. Officials said he is known to law enforcement, and Verderosa said hes frequented the Capitol grounds before.

Capitol Police later identified the suspect as Dawson. He was charged with assault with a deadly weapon and assault on a police officer while armed.

Dawson, 56, of Antioch, Tenn., was arrested in October following an outburst in the House chamber, and a stay-away order was issued, officials told Fox News.

A bench warrant was issued for his arrest after he was to return to court in November, but did not show up. In January, Dawson wrote the Court a letter in which he claimed to be exempt from laws because he is a prophet of God.

Dawson was taken to a local hospital, and a female bystander also sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspects vehicle, which was discovered nearby, is now being searched.

Its unclear whether any shots were fired by the suspect himself during the confrontation at the visitor center, or whether they were only fired by officers on the scene.

Verderosa did not explain how the unidentified bystander was injured, but described those injuries as minor.

Fox News is told the incident started when the suspect set off a metal detector. Verderosa confirmed Monday afternoon that the suspect drew what appeared to be a weapon and pointed it at officers, after which at least one officer fired on him and struck him.

Fox News is told the FBI responded, and there do not appear to be any threats to other parts of the city. Fox News is told there was a single shooter.

Congress was not in session Monday, but the city is teeming with tourists in Washington for the cherry blossoms and on spring break.

Diane Bilo, a visiting tourist from Cincinnati, told reporters her husband was inside the building when the shooting happened. She read a text she received from her husband that said it sounded like a full clip.

Jay Blaskey, from Los Angeles, said he was in a theater at the CVC when a group of people were ushered into the room; they said the shooting took place at another theater within the center, he said.

While details are still forthcoming, the incident sent the Capitol Complex into a tight lockdown.

The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center will reopen Tuesday morning.

The White House also was briefly put on lockdown because of the incident.

At the same time of the Capitol Hill incident, a woman was arrested at the White House after she attempted to move a temporary security barrier while attending the Easter Egg Roll.

Security officials however stressed to Fox News that while the arrested happened at the same time as the shooting, there was no relation between the two.

FoxNews.com's Joseph Weber and Fox News' Chad Pergram, Catherine Herridge, Matthew Dean and James Rosen, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Facing threats of a massive economic boycott, Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal announced Monday he will veto a controversial religious liberty bill that critics describe as anti-gay and supporters describe as necessary to protect their religious rights.

The Republican governor had been under intense pressure to veto the religious liberty bill, which would allow faith-based organizations to deny services to those who violate their sincerely held religious beliefs. It also would let employers retain the right to fire employees not aligned with those beliefs.

I have examined the protections that this bill proposes to provide to the faith-based community and I can find no examples of any of those circumstances occurring in our state, Deal said.

He added, I do not think that we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia.

But supporters like state Sen. Josh McKoon told FoxNews.com that the fight was far from over.

If anyone advised the governor that this would be a way to end the debate, they were mistaken, he said.

McKoon hinted that members of the Georgia General Assembly might ask the governor about convening a special session; a three-fifths majority in both the House and Senate would be needed to do so. If lawmakers can reach that threshold, overriding the governors veto would require a two-thirds majority in each chamber.

But in this case, that might be easier said than done.

Republicans dont hold that margin in either the House or the Senate, and all Democrats voted against the bill.

If Republicans cant force a special session, McKoon pledged they would bring up similar legislation next year.

I expected Gov. Deal would be able to step up to the pressure but obviously that didnt happen, McKoon said, insisting the bill wasnt discriminatory but instead a modest, watered-down compromise.

Deal made his announcement after facing boycott threats from the movie industry, and opposition from other influential businesses.

In the past week, nearly three-dozen actors, directors and studio companies threatened to pull out of lucrative projects in Georgia -- a popular filming location dubbed the Hollywood of the South -- if Deal signed the bill.

Coca-Cola and other Georgia companies joined the National Football League urging Deal to reject the proposal.

Supporters like Mike Griffin, a pastor and communications representative of the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, told FoxNews.com that threats to pull profits from the state are nothing but fear mongering.

But not everyone is upset with Deals decision.

Matt McTighe, executive director at Freedom for All Americans, commended Deal on doing the right thing.

The governor understands that while our freedom of religion is of critical importance, it doesnt mean theres a need for harmful exemptions that can lead to discrimination, he said in a statement.
Secretary of State John Kerry on Sunday defended President Obamas handling of the Brussels terror bombings, saying world leaders are shocked by Republican presidential candidates responses and their embarrassing views on Muslims.

"Everywhere I go, every leader I meet, they ask about what is happening in America, Kerry told CBS Face the Nation. They cannot believe it. I think it is fair to say that they're shocked.

He also suggested the GOP candidates rhetoric is calling into question the United States reliability."

Kerry, fellow Democrats and others are particularly upset over GOP front-runner Donald Trump calling for an end to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and suggesting so-called enhanced interrogation methods like water-boarding for terror suspects.

Trump, who has never held elected office, also suggested after the recent Paris bombings, which like the deadly Brussels attacks have been connected to the Islamic State terror group, that the United States put a temporary ban on Muslim immigrants.

Cruz has criticized Obamas plan to allow tens of thousands more Syrian refugees into the U.S., over concerns about ISIS infiltrators, and suggested stepped-up policing of Muslim neighborhoods across America.

He repeated those arguments Sunday and again criticized Obama for continuing his diplomatic trip to Cuba and Argentina after the attacks.

He said the president while in Cuba was toasting a communist dictator who tortures and murders his citizens and who spreads terrorism throughout Latin America.

Earlier in the show, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Rep. Devin Nunes said, the president of the United States should not be hanging out with a known financier of terrorism.

The more we dont take care of ISIS or al Qaeda, the more this threat will grow, the California lawmaker said. You've got the president of the United States dancing down in Argentina when he should be meeting with the leaders of Europe and other allies to try to take the fight to the enemy.

He also Obama was delusional in defending his decisions and actions after the deadly attacks Tuesday by saying it is very important for us not respond with fear.

Kerry was criticized for saying after the bombings at a Brussels airport and subway station, which killed 31 and wounded roughly 270 others, that the U.S. was winning the fight against ISIS.

He argued Sunday that the U.S.-led coalition has recouped about 40 percent of the territory in Syria that ISIS had captured and that coalition forces are killing roughly one ISIS leader every three days.

Kerry also said that the Republican presidential candidates' campaign rhetoric on Muslims is an "embarrassment" to the United States.
Some powerful players could be missing from a U.S.-hosted nuclear summit later this week in Washington, as Russia says it wont participate and Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif cancels his planned trip.

Indian media outlets reported Monday that Sharif canceled his visit to Washington after the deadly terror attack in Lahore. He reportedly will be represented in Washington by a top adviser.

Russia already said it has no plans to participate in the Obama administrations nuclear talks set for Thursday and Friday. According to reports, Moscows Foreign Ministry says the summits have played their role, but now interfere in the activities of the United Nations and other groups.

The Russian government has until the start of the Nuclear Security Summit on March 31 to reconsider.

The absence of the Russian government and the prime minister of Pakistan -- both important nuclear powers -- could hinder the talks.

The official website for the summit said it is unfortunate Russia decided not to attend, adding, We hope that Russia, as the host of the first nuclear security summit of G7+1 leaders in 1996, still shares the view that securing nuclear materials and combatting nuclear terrorism are priorities well worth the personal attention of world leaders.

Representatives from more than 50 countries still are set to attend the summit. But Russia is considered critical to any discussion on nuclear arms control and security. In 2015, Russia possessed an estimated 7,700 warheads according to armscontrol.org, 600 more than the United States.

Eugene Rumer, director of the Russia and Eurasia Program for the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a former U.S. intelligence officer for Russia and Eurasia, explained the mindset in Moscow. Russia will deal with the U.S. as equals where it feels its useful. But Russia will not come to Washington to kiss the ring of President Obama, he told Fox News.

The summit is being held in the shadow of a rash of terror attacks  in Brussels and now Lahore  but also recent nuclear activity. In January, North Korea conducted its fourth nuclear test, and has threatened more. North Koreas recent provocation is expected to receive considerable attention. Chinas president will visit Washington later this week to attend the summit, with North Korea in mind.

Secretary of State John Kerry visited Moscow last week to discuss Syria and Ukraine days after the second anniversary of Russias annexation of Crimea. Russian forces remain active in Eastern Ukraine, according to the outgoing U.S. military commander in Europe, Gen. Philip Breedlove.

Kerry met with Russian President Vladimir Putin for four hours and conducted a midnight press conference Thursday night, according to the AP.

Putin thanked President Obama for his help in Syria, without mentioning the nuclear meeting.

We are aware that the groundwork we have on Syria could only have been possible thanks to the supreme political leadership of the United States, specifically the position of President Obama, said Putin.
Sen. Bernie Sanders won nearly three dozen delegates more than Hillary Clinton Saturday in sweeping the Alaska, Washington and Hawaii Democratic presidential caucuses, but the strong, comeback victories failed to cut substantially into the front-runner's big lead.

Sanders needs to win 67 percent of the remaining delegates and uncommitted super-delegates through June to clinch the Democratic nomination. And so far he's winning only 37 percent.

There were 162 delegates at stake Saturday -- Washington with 101, followed by Hawaii with 25 and Alaska with 16.

The Vermont senator won 55 delegates, compared to 20 for Clinton. However, more will likely be allocated to Sanders in several weeks, when the Washington state Democratic Party releases vote shares by district.

Still, Clinton still maintains a wide advantage in delegates, winning 1,243 to Sanders' 975 based on primary and caucuses to date.

Her lead is even bigger when including super-delegates, or party officials who can back any candidate they wish. Clinton has 1,712 to Sanders' 1,004, with 2,383 needed to win.

Still, Sanders sounded optimistic Sunday about his chances.

Our calculations are that in fact we can win the pledge delegates, he said on NBCs Meet the Press. We have the momentum. We have won five out of the six last contests in landslide fashion.  And the reason is the issues that we are talking about -- a corrupt campaign finance system, the disappearance of the American middle class,  kids graduating college $50,000 in debt.

To be sure, Sanders had a good Saturday, which he hopes will give him some momentum as the primary-caucus season moves to the Midwest, Northeast, then to the West Coast, including California with 546 delegates at stake in June.

Sanders won Alaska 81-to-18 percent over Clinton; 68-32 in Hawaii and 73-26 in Washington, with all precincts having reported.

The self-described democratic socialist on Saturday night acknowledged his struggles in earlier contests across the South, with its strong conservative voting bloc, but struck an optimistic tone.

"We knew things were going to improve as we headed west," he said at a rally in Madison, Wis. "We are making significant inroads in ... Clinton's lead. ... We have a path toward victory."

The next Democratic and Republican primaries are April 5 in Wisconsin. Other big, upcoming primaries include Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York, Clintons home state.

Sanders is popular among younger and more progressive Americans but continues to struggle to connect with Hispanic and African-American voters.

He was expected to do well in Washington, considering residents of Seattle, the biggest city in the Pacific Northwest, are among the most liberal in the country and major campaign contributors.

He drew more than 10,000 supporters at an outdoor rally Friday evening in Seattle. And the state appeared to have a record voter turnout, similar to others that have helped keep alive Sanders insurgent campaign.

Most of Washingtons Democratic leadership endorsed Clinton, including Gov. Jay Inslee, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray and Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell.

Still, Sanders entered Saturdays contests optimistic after winning more delegate than Clinton in three contests earlier last week -- nearly 20 in the Idaho and Utah caucuses, despite losing the marquee Arizona primary to the former secretary of state.

Sanders has done significantly better in caucus contests, now winning 10 of the last 12.

Most of his 15 primary-season wins have been in states with largely white populations and in the caucus contests, which tend to attract the most active liberal Democrats.

While Sanders faces a steep climb to the nomination, Clintons recent losses highlight her persistent vulnerabilities, including concerns about her trustworthiness and weak support among younger voters.

Clinton has been looking past the primary contests and aiming at potential Republican challengers.

She did not hold a public event after the Saturdays results were announced.

But in interviews, rallies and speeches last week, she largely focused on Tuesday's deadly attacks in Brussels, casting GOP front-runner Donald Trump and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz as unqualified to deal with complicated international threats.

Her campaign sees the April 19 contest in New York as an important one, not just because of the rich delegate prize but because losing to Sanders in a state she represented in the Senate would be a psychological blow.

She hopes to lock up an even larger share of delegates in five Northeastern contests a week later.

Fox News Lauren Blanchard and Joseph Weber and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
What if a supermajority of states could override a federal law or Supreme Court ruling?

Thats just one idea being proposed by advocates of a convention of states to amend the U.S. Constitution.

"The American people are mad and theyre looking for a way to say, No more, said Brooke Rollins, president and CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative think tank. Our founders, in their brilliance, gave us a tool to do that. And its Article V.

Article V of the Constitution allows a minimum of two-thirds of the states to call for a convention to propose amendments, in turn going around Congress.

The push to do so has proceeded in fits and starts over the last several years, driven by a desire for states to debate a range of constitutional changes dealing with everything from campaign finance reform to balanced budgets. So far, six states have signed on  Alabama, Alaska, Georgia, Florida, Indiana and Tennessee. Indiana was the latest to sign on, approving a resolution endorsing the effort earlier this month.

But organizers would need another 28 to bring their plan to fruition, and call the convention. If they reach that level of support, states would be entering uncharted territory.

It has never happened before in the history of the United States, said Robert Schapiro, dean of Emory University School of Law.

In an election cycle that has defied conventional wisdom, though, supporters of a convention of states believe right now may be the very best time to try something different.

The mood of the public is tired of business as usual, said Buzz Brockway, a Republican state representative who sponsored Georgias convention of states resolution.

Brockway told Fox News he believes such a convention could achieve consensus on such issues as campaign finance reform, term limits and balanced budgets. Even if states fall short of the two-thirds supermajority needed to call for a convention to propose amendments (and the three-quarters required to ratify them), Brockway said the effort itself could encourage change.

In the 80s, President Reagan actually came out and said he was in favor of a balanced budget convention, Brockway said. That spurred Washington to act. And they didnt actually pass a balanced budget amendment, but they came extremely close. So, I think at the worst case, this will spur Congress to action. The best case, well have actual amendments that are proposed that states can consider.

Schapiro has doubts about how far the effort will go.

There have been efforts before to have states call for a constitutional convention. And with regard to certain issues, states have come fairly close, he said. But, given the divided times which we face, and given the broad brush of these amendments, I think its unlikely to garner the kind of support that would be necessary actually to reach that two-thirds benchmark.
When the National Enquirer first published a 2007 story on John Edwards shocking mistress scandal, the mainstream media ignored it, in part because the story was weak and the woman wasnt named. The same thing happened months later when the tabloid said that Edwards had fathered a love child.

The media could still act as gatekeepers in that pre-Twitter age. It wasnt until the summer of 2008, when Enquirer photographers got pictures of Rielle Hunter with their baby at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, that he admitted the affair--but not paternity--on Nightline. Then the story exploded.

The Enquirers rather weak story alleging that Ted Cruz had five extramarital affairs with unnamed women unfolded in dramatically different fashion on Fridayboth because of the way the media marketplace has been transformed and the way the Texas senator handled it.

Few seamy stories, no matter how half-baked, can stay bottled up for long in a culture where anyone can post anything on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Snapchatand then have readers demand to know why the press is covering up the alleged scandal.

Cruz, therefore, faced a dilemma. By remaining silent, he ran the risk of allowing those who saw the allegations online to believe he wasnt contesting them. But by denouncing them as garbage in front of the cameras--without being asked--he gave the mainstream media a green light to run with the story. All they had to do was endlessly replay his sound bites.

I have reported extensively on the Enquirer over the years. The supermarket tabloid has plenty of excesses, sometimes makes mistakes and boasts of paying for information. On the other hand, the paper broke significant stories about the O.J. Simpson murder case, the first of Tiger Woods many mistresses, and Charlie Sheen having HIV and claiming he was being extorted. And, of course, its reporting on Edwards trying to cover up that he had fathered an out-of-wedlock baby led to a corruption case, which ended after a mistrial.

But the Cruz piece is an example of a classic Enquirer tactic: sometimes putting out a half-baked story in hopes that sources will come out of the woodwork, attracted by the lure of a big payday, and confirm the sleazy details. The piece quoted unnamed snitches, spoke of "rumors" and said "private investigators" were looking into these rumors without identifying who they worked for. There were also blurred photos of the unnamed women.

The Cruz allegations were starting to dribble out on cable news on Friday morning. MSNBC asked its new contributor Rick Tyler, a spokesman fired by Cruz, about the story and Tyler said he didnt believe it. CNN allowed former Cruz aide turned contributor Amanda Carpenter to be embarrassed when Boston Herald columnist and Trump supporter Adriana Cohen demanded on air that Carpenter deny having had an affair with her former boss (which Carpenter forcefully did). That was terribly unfair and should have been cut sooner.

By denouncing the allegations on camera, Cruz gave the media a green light to run with the story. Thats a difficult dilemma for politicians because staying silent might have been viewed as not challenging the allegations.

Yet Cruz did more than rip the Enquirer story as a tabloid smear. He said it is a smear that has come from Donald Trump and his henchmen. There is, however, no evidence of that.

Trump said in a statement that he had absolutely nothing to do with it and did not know about it. In a passive-aggressive postscript, he said that while the tabloid had been right about O.J. Simpson, John Edwards, and many others, I certainly hope they are not right about Lyin Ted Cruz.

The Enquirer said in a statement that its not influenced by anyone other than its editors and reporters. Roger Stone, a former Trump adviser and the only person quoted on the recordas Cruz pointed outaccused the senator of lying about him. Trump is friendly with David Pecker, the parent companys CEO, and the Enquirer has endorsed himbut neither of those things prove any link to the story.

Cruzs charge against Trump is the mirror image of the one that Trump hurled against Cruz when a tiny anti-Trump PAC spent $300 on an ad featuring that nude GQ picture of his wife Melania. The senator has nothing to do with that political action committee.

What the Enquirer story is lacking is any account from a woman involved, or emails, texts or photos that would support the explosive allegations against Cruz. Once, that might have been enough to keep news organizations from touching it. But that age is long gone.

This game of smear and counter-smear has dragged the campaign into the gutterand the media along with it.
Many people around the world have more Denisovan DNA than previously thought, which has contributed to their sense of smell and ability to thrive at high altitudes, according to a study released Monday.

Researchers know that modern humans with ancestry outside of Africa inherited up to 2.1 percent of their DNA from Neanderthals. But far less was known about Denisovans, who are believed to have shared origins with Neanderthals and account for up to 5 percent of DNA in some present day populations.

The latest work, from a research team at Harvard Medical School and UCLA, developed a world map of ancient DNA. In doing so, they found that populations in Oceania populations had the highest percentage of ancient DNA  2 percent Neanderthal and 5 percent Denisovan - while South Asians had more Denisovan DNA  0.1 percent in Sherpas - than expected. That raises the possibility of unknown interbreeding events.

Western Europeans are the least likely non-Africans to have Neanderthal or Denisovan DNA while Africans have almost none.

Related: DNA from mysterious 'Denisovans' helped modern humans survive

Its a very comprehensive look at how the modern human population evolved, how we got to where are today, UCLAs Sriram Sankararaman, a co-author on the study that appeared in Current Biology, told FoxNews.com. You need to be able to understand our interaction with these archaic populations. These interbreeding events introduced very different genes into modern humans so a major question for us in human genetics is to figure out what has been the impact of these genes.

Researchers also found this inherited DNA has benefited modern humans, in good and bad ways  building on earlier research that, according to Live Science, found Denisovan DNA had boosted modern humans immune system and helped them survive.

Denisovan genes were found to contribute to a more subtle sense of smell in Papua New Guineans and contributed to adaptions to high-altitude in Tibetans. Neanderthal genes most likely contribute to tougher skin and hair.

"There are certain classes of genes that modern humans inherited from the archaic humans with whom they interbred, which may have helped the modern humans to adapt to the new environments in which they arrived," David Reich, a geneticist at Harvard Medical School and the Broad Institute and a co-author on the paper, said in a statement. "On the flip side, there was negative selection to systematically remove ancestry that may have been problematic from modern humans. We can document this removal over the 40,000 years since these admixtures occurred."

Related: Prehistoric tooth reveals surprising details about long-lost human 'cousins'

The most obvious downside to inheriting the ancient DNA, the researchers found, was the potential for increased infertility  a common problem when species interbreed. As a result, the researchers found evidence that both Denisovan and Neanderthal ancestry had disappeared from the X chromosome as well as genes expressed in the male testes.

We see a lot less compared to the rest of the genome, Sankararaman said.

Youre going along the genome and there is the X chromosome or there are genes expressed in testes. Basically, these parts of the genome have less Neanderthal or Denisovan, he said, adding that there was very strong pressure to remove the bad copies of these genes.

Evolutionary geneticist Svante Paabo at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology at Leipzig, Germany, who has shown that Neanderthals and humans first mated around 50,000 years ago, praised the study.

Related: Neanderthal woman's genome reveals unknown human lineage

I think this is a very cool study. It is especially interesting that just as the genetic interactions with Neanderthals in Europe and western Asia seem to have been numerous and contributed some important gene variants to present-day people, in eastern and southern Asia similar things seem to have gone with the Denisovans, Paabo told FoxNews.com, via email.

It is cool that Neanderthals and Denisovans are not totally extinct. Parts of them live on in people today, he added.

The researchers collected their data by comparing known Neanderthal and Denisovan gene sequences across more than 250 genomes from 120 non-African populations publically available through the Simons Genome Diversity Project. The analysis was carried out by a machine-learning algorithm that could differentiate between components of both kinds of ancestral DNA, which are more similar to one another than to modern humans.

While they can learn much from this interbreeding, researchers cautioned against drawing any conclusions based on the DNA about the movement of populations or the possible traits left behind by our ancient ancestors.

"We can't use this data to make claims about what the Denisovans or Neanderthals looked like, what they ate, or what kind of diseases they were susceptible to," Sankararaman said. "We are still very far from understanding that."

The research study can be found here.
MedStar Health has reportedly been hit with a virus that has forced it to shut down significant parts of its IT operation.

Early this morning, MedStar Health's IT system was affected by a virus that prevents certain users from logging-in to our system, explained the company, in a post on its Facebook page. MedStar acted quickly with a decision to take down all system interfaces to prevent the virus from spreading throughout the organization. We are working with our IT and Cyber-security partners to fully assess and address the situation.

Currently, all of our clinical facilities remain open and functioning. We have no evidence that information has been compromised, it added. The organization has moved to back-up systems paper transactions where necessary."

Related: Hospital pays nearly $17G in bitcoins to hackers who disabled computer network

The health group, which runs 10 hospitals, the MedStar Health Research Institute and the MedStar Medical Group, describes itself as the largest healthcare provider in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. region.

The FBI told FoxNews.com that it is aware of the incident. The Bureau is "looking into the nature and scope of the matter," it explained, in an emailed statement.



The Associated Press reports that the virus has affected Washington's Georgetown University Hospital and other medical offices in the region.

A law enforcement official says FBI is assessing whether the virus is so-called ransomware. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because this person was not authorized to publicly discuss details about the ongoing criminal investigation.

Hospitals have become a target for cybercriminals using ransomware, malicious software used to extort money. The software can encrypt files until a ransom is paid in a difficult-to-trace digital currency, such as bitcoins.

The scale of the ransomware threat was highlighted last month when a Los Angeles hospital paid nearly $17,000 in bitcoins to hackers who disabled its computer network. Henderson, Kentucky-based Methodist Hospital suffered a ransomware attack in February.

Related: Iranian hackers indicted for attacks on US infrastructure

During 2013, the number of attacks each month rose from 100,000 in January to 600,000 in December, according to a 2014 report by Symantec, the maker of antivirus software.

A report from Intel Corp.'s McAfee Labs released in November said the number of ransomware attacks is expected to grow even more in 2016 because of increased sophistication in the software used to do it.

The company estimates that on average, 3 percent of users with infected machines pay a ransom. It's not clear how many of those users were individuals and how many companies. Some ransomware attacks go unreported because the victims don't want it publicized they were hacked.

The first fully functional ransomware targeting Apples Mac OS X operating system was identified by security specialist Palo Alto Networks earlier this month

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
The demolition company that tore down the wrong house in Texas after a Google Maps glitch has apologized for its error.

WFAA reported last week that Billy L. Nabors Demolition mistakenly tore down a duplex at 7601 Calypso Drive in Rowlett, instead of a duplex at 7601 Cousteau Drive, one block away. After the house was leveled, a company employee reportedly texted Google Maps photos to one of the horrified owners showing the arrow for 7601 Cousteau pointing at 7601 Calypso.

As an organization we have acknowledged and accepted our mistake since the beginning, said Billy L. Nabors Demolition, in a statement emailed to FoxNews.com Monday. We are devastated that a series of unfortunate events led to something like this and are deeply sorry that this happened.

Related: Demolition firm blames Google Maps glitch for tearing down the wrong house

The Demolition company said that it was in contact with the homeowners as soon as the incident happened and is moving forward to make things right.

It was never our intent to place blame on anyone during this devastating situation and are distraught that anyone felt otherwise, it added.

However, this is not the first time that the accuracy of Google Maps has been thrust into the spotlight. In 2010 Google fixed an error in its map of Central America that was blamed for Nicaraguas accidental invasion of a disputed border area also claimed by Costa Rica.

Related: Stop Google from knowing every move you make

Also in 2010, a woman unsuccessfully sued Google for providing bad Google Maps directions after she was struck by a car while walking on a rural Utah highway with no sidewalk or pedestrian pathways.

The search giant urges users to report any errors they encounter with its Maps offering via its Report a data problem in Google Maps support page.

Follow James Rogers on Twitter @jamesjrogers
The U.S. Justice Department announced Monday it has successfully accessed data stored on the iPhone that belonged to the San Bernardino gunman without Apple's help, ending the court case against the tech company.

The surprise development effectively ends a pitched court battle between Apple and the Obama administration.

The government asked a federal judge to vacate a disputed order forcing Apple to help the FBI break into the iPhone, saying it was no longer necessary.

The court filing in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California provided no details about how the FBI did it or who showed it how.

As the government noted in its filing today, the FBI has now successfully retrieved the data stored on the San Bernardino terrorists iPhone and therefore no longer requires the assistance from Apple required by this Court Order," DOJ spokeswoman Melaine Newman said in a statement. "The FBI is currently reviewing the information on the phone, consistent with standard investigatory procedures."

A law enforcement official said Monday night that DOJ no longer requires the assistance of Apple in unlocking the iPhone that belonged to San Bernardino gunman Syed Farook given that the third party method demonstrated to FBI earlier this month proved successful.

The official added that the decision to request that the order compelling Apple to assist FBI be vacated by the court for that same reason.

The law enforcement official said that FBI is currently reviewing the information on Farooks iPhone and that the bureau will continue to explore every lead to make sure that all evidence in the San Bernardino terror attack is collected. The official would not comment on what FBI may have found on the phone as of now.

The official would not disclose any details about the method used to unlock the phone or the third party that demonstrated this method to FBI, only noting that the third party was outside the government.

The FBI is also has not disclosed what information may have been gleaned from the unlocking of the phone.

"From the beginning, we objected to the FBI's demand that Apple build a backdoor into the iPhone because we believed it was wrong and would set a dangerous precedent," Apple said in a statement. "As a result of the governments dismissal, neither of these occurred. This case should never have been brought."

"We will continue to help law enforcement with their investigations, as we have done all along, and we will continue to increase the security of our products as the threats and attacks on our data become more frequent and more sophisticated," the statement continued.

The surprise development also punctured the temporary perception that Apple's security might have been good enough to keep consumers' personal information safe even from the U.S. government  with the tremendous resources it can expend when it wants to uncover something.

The FBI used the technique to access data on an iPhone used by gunman Syed Farook, who died with his wife in a gun battle with police after they killed 14 people in San Bernardino, California, in December.

U.S. magistrate Sheri Pym of California last month ordered Apple to provide the FBI with software to help it hack into Farook's work-issued iPhone. The order touched off a debate pitting digital privacy rights against national security concerns.

Apple was headed for a courtroom showdown with the government last week, until federal prosecutors abruptly asked for a postponement so they could test a potential solution that was brought to them by an unidentified party the previous weekend.

Technical experts had said there might be a few ways an outsider could gain access to the phone, although the FBI had insisted repeatedly until then that only Apple had the ability to override the iPhone's security.

The case drew international attention and highlighted a growing friction between governments and the tech industry. Apple and other tech companies have said they feel increasing need to protect their customers' data from hackers and unfriendly intruders, while police and other government authorities have warned that encryption and other data-protection measures are making it more difficult for investigators to track criminals and dangerous extremists.

The withdrawal of court process also takes away Apple's ability to legally request details on the method the FBI used. Apple attorneys said last week that they hoped the government would share that information with them if it proved successful.

The encrypted phone was protected by a passcode that included security protocols: a time delay and self-destruct feature that erased the phone's data after 10 tries. The two features made it impossible for the government to repeatedly and continuously test passcodes in what's known as a brute-force attack.

As to whether DOJ will apply this method to other cases involving locked iPhones, a law enforcement official said Monday night that FBI is focused on the San Bernardino case and that they could not comment on the possibility of future disclosures at this time.

The official added that it would be premature to say anything about DOJs ability to access other phones through this method at this point, only adding that FBI knows that it works on the iPhone 5C that belonged to the San Bernardino gunman which was running iOS 9.

On working with Apple going forward, the official said that the goal has always been to work cooperatively with Apple and that DOJ will want to continue to work with Apple in the future

Fox News' Matt Dean and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Alaska Airlines said Monday it has cancelled more flights because of a massive cloud of volcanic ash from Alaska's Pavlof Volcano that spewed into the air.

The Seattle-based airliner said it has canceled 41 flights involving six Alaska cities until the airline can evaluate weather reports after daylight Tuesday. The cancellations include all flights to and from Fairbanks.

The airline says the canceled flights affected 3,300 passengers.

Flights to Barrow, Bethel, Kotzebue, Nome and Deadhorse also are cancelled.

The airline says it will resume its 54 regularly scheduled flights on Tuesday if conditions improve.

Pavlof Volcano, one of Alaska's most active, is 625 miles southwest of Anchorage on the Alaska Peninsula.

The volcano erupted Sunday afternoon, and by Monday morning an ash cloud had stretched northeast more than 400 miles into interior Alaska.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the volcano, located erupted at 4:18 p.m. local time (8:18 p.m. ET). The agency said that the eruption also led to tremors on the ground.

The agency says the volcano, which is about 4.4 miles in diameter, has had 40 known eruptions and "is one of the most consistently active volcanoes in the Aleutian arc."

The Alaska Volcano Observatory says that ash plumes from past eruptions have risen as high as 49,000 feet. During a previous eruption in 2013, ash plumes rose 27,000 feet.

The community closest to the volcano is Cold Bay, which is about 37 miles southwest of it and has a population of approximately 100 people.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


A North Carolina woman preparing a goodbye party for a relative joining the Navy was killed Saturday afternoon when she was struck and killed by an Amtrak train.

Authorities had not released the woman's name as of late Sunday, but family members identified her to WNCN as Audrey Manning.

Before she was killed, Manning had been helping to tie balloons for the party at a house in Four Oaks about 30 miles southeast of Raleigh, said Police Chief Stephen Anderson. WNCN reported that Manning's grandnephew was due to ship out on Sunday.

Four Oaks Mayor Linwood Parker said the woman was walking between houses along a path that crossed the railroad but wasn't considered a marked crossing.

"The houses, some of them were built prior to automobiles, and they had a path across the track," he said.

"Witnesses said they heard the train blowing the horn," Anderson said. "She must not have heard it and walked in front of the train." The chief added that no charges are expected in the woman's death.

"I know my aunt," Manning's niece Quovadis Blue told WNCN Sunday. "There is no way she would have gone across the train tracks if she heard a train coming. Nobody would have."

The train was traveling from New York to Savannah, Ga. Amtrak spokesman Mike Tolbert said none of the crew or 217 passengers were injured.

"The person was on the right of way, but didn't have authorization to be on the tracks," Tolbert said.

A level of comfort and familiarity around the tracks appears to predate the founding Fair Oaks, which has about 2,000 people. The town's website says it developed around the tracks and owes its name to the railroad. It was chosen as a site for a supply depot because of an unusual landmark  a tree 50 feet from the tracks that had four trunks growing from one base, the site says.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A convicted murderer escaped an Ohio prison Sunday and police were continuing the search Monday for the inmate, who is considered dangerous.



Prison officials first noticed John Modie, 58, was absent during Sunday nights 11 p.m. inmate count at Southeastern Correctional Complex.

Modie was serving a sentence of 18 years to life at the prison after he was convicted of murder, robbery and escape in the 2003 killing of a Cleveland woman, according to The Columbus Dispatch.

Modie killed 26-year-old Ucianna Ortiz at his home before dumping her body by the side of I-90. He was arrested in a stolen BMW a few days after the murder.



A prison spokesman told 10TV strong storms in the area around the prison may have forced Modie to take shelter somewhere near the facility after his escape.



An inmate has escaped and is dangerous. Hocking College main campus is closed until 12 today 3/28/16. https://t.co/Ku0mjC7oZU for more info  Hocking College (@HockingCollege) March 28, 2016

Modie was last seen wearing a blue hoodie, gray sweat shirt and blue pants.



Nearby Hocking College closed its Nelsonville campus Monday while police searched for Modie.

Modie was lodged in the Hocking Unit, an annex that houses about 450 older offenders, according to the prisons website.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.


A lawsuit filed by the estate of a 15-month-old girl who starved to death accuses a Georgia hotel of negligence in connection with her killing.

Investigators believe a cult known as the Nuwabian Nation of Moors deliberately starved young Alcenti McIntosh in 2014, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Police say they learned the girl had been locked in a room at the Extended Stay America in Peachtree Corners along with her mother and three other children. The toddler's father, Calvin McIntosh, and another daughter of his, Najlaa, face charges including murder and child cruelty.

In November of 2014, Calvin McIntosh reportedly took the toddler to a nearby hospital where doctors declared her dead on arrival.

The hotel "knew, or through the exercise of reasonable care should've known" the girl was being harmed, the new lawsuit claims, according to the Journal-Constitution. Alcenti McIntosh reportedly lived at the hotel under the cult's control for her entire life.

There was no immediate response from the hotel to the new lawsuit. Peachtree Corners is nearly 20 miles northeast of Atlanta.
A convicted people smuggler who had been arrested 24 times dating back to 1999 was sentenced to prison for the first time on Friday.

Efrain Delgado-Rosales, 35, was sentenced to five years in jail by a federal judge in San Diego for bringing an illegal alien into the U.S. for financial gain.

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Border Patrol agents spotted Delgado-Rosales leading a group of four illegal immigrants through California's Otay Mountains this past November. The men told the agents that Delgado-Rosales had picked them up from a stash house in Tijuana, brought them to the U.S.-Mexico border and left them on the Mexico side for several hours.

During their wait, the men said theives robbed them of their money and cell phones. When Delgado-Rosales returned, his indifference to their situation led the four men to believed he had been involved in the robbery.

After the men crossed into the U.S., they claimed, three of them dropped back, unable to keep up with Delgado-Rosales' pace. The smuggler only turned back for the stragglers when the fourth man begged him to do so.

Delgado-Rosales was identified as the guide in a similar incident in August 2014, during which one of the men being smuggled died.

According to the U.S. Attorney's office, Delgado-Rosales was first arrested on July 19, 1999. On 23 of the 24 occasions he was arrested, Delgado-Rosales was accompanied by at least two and as many as 46 illegal immigrants. In 2003, he was arrested in Los Angeles with 61 illegal immigrants.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Foster told CNN that after each of his previous arrests, Delgado-Rosales was deported to his home country of Mexico.

Click for more from The San Diego Union-Tribune.
A retired fraud investigator for the South Dakota Department of Revenue has pleaded not guilty to federal charges accusing him of targeting banks with nearly $150,000 in fraudulent wire transfer requests.

Steven Knigge, 69, faces charges including bank fraud and money laundering, the Rapid City Journal reported. While working at the Revenue Department in 2015, Knigge is accused of asking banks in several states to wire money to an account in South Dakota belonging to him.

The banks received emails from someone purporting to be an account holder instructing bank employees to transfer money to a different account.

Authorities allege Knigge received more than $42,000 between two successful transfer requests from banks in Washington and Arizona to his accounts in Rapid City. They were among five requests Knigge allegedly made to out-of-state banks in July and August 2015.

After getting the money, Knigge made eight transfers mostly to Nigeria amounting to $30,400, according to authorities.

He also is accused of attempting to delete emails on his computer at the state Department of Revenue after IRS and FBI agents informed him in September 2015 that he was under investigation for fraud.

A woman who answered a telephone call from The Associated Press to a number associated with Knigge said he was no longer at that number. Knigge did not immediately respond to a Facebook message asking for comment.
The death toll has risen to 35 in the Belgium terror attack. 270 were hurt  many critically. The State Department reports 4 Americans died.

Dutch police arrested a man last night at the request of French authorities. France says he was planning a terror attack.

Police in Belgium detained three suspected terrorists in 13 police raids Sunday alone.

Theyve issued another plea for one of the terrorists seen on surveillance tape in the seconds before the blasts in the airport.

The Brussels airport remains closed until further notice.

Violence broke out in Brussels over the weekend as anti-immigrant protesters clashed with police at the scene of a massive memorial to those killed in the terror attacks in Brussels last week in central Brussels.

The Wall Street Journal reporting the Europeans still dont have a handle on how big terror networks there may be.

The New York Times reports the fact the planning and work went undetected before the attack in Brussels is a big concern. Belgium missed or ignored big red flags that might have prevented the attacks.

Syrian forces retook the historic city of Palmyra from ISIS.. but its too late for many of the historic sites in the UNESCO world heritage city which were leveled by Islamic terrorists.

A suicide bomber targeting Christians hit a public park in Lahore, Pakistan killing dozens including many children. At least 300 injured. A Taliban offshoot claimed responsibility.

Pretty quiet on the campaign trail this morning. Hillary Clinton is fundraising in Chicago. Clinton has a live event tonight in Wisconsin which holds its primary on April 5th (next Tuesday).

It was a good weekend for Bernie Sanders with wins in caucuses held by Democrats in Alaska, Hawaii and Washington state. Still the wins did little to help Sanders in his delegate deficit with Clinton.

Sanders needs some big wins soon (like California next month) to have any hope of catching Clinton.

Some Democrats are urging Joe Biden to do more to help the Hillary Clinton campaign with white male voters despite the tensions between the two of them.

John Kasich, Donald Trump and Ted Cruz are campaigning in Wisconsin today.

1300EDT -- OH Gov Kasich holds a town hall meeting. River Steel Inc., West Salem, WI. LIVE via LiveU

Cruz and Trump attacked each other again yesterday. Their wives have become targets of the campaign as well. Just when we thought it couldnt get uglier.

California legislators have reached a deal to raise the states minimum wage to $15/hour.

We get readings today on pending home sales and on consumer strength. Oil prices are up and U.S. stocks look to open higher.

The Wall Street Journal reports today that an Iranian hacker used an advanced Google search to find a vulnerable U.S. infrastructure target.

A volcano on Alaskas Aleutian Islands erupted. The Pavlov Volcano is 600 miles from Anchorage. Ash flew 20,000 feet in the air.

For more news, follow me on Twitter: @ClintPHenderson
Youve heard over and over that the Every Student Succeeds Act hands more policymaking power to states and districts. In many respects, officials in statehouses and education departments are still figuring out how theyll proceed under ESSA, which gives states complete control over teacher evaluations and more power over how test scores and other factors figure into accountability.

But thanks to the eagle eyes of the National Conference of State Legislatures , we have at least some early clues about what legislators are thinking about in the new policy and political environment, at least when it comes to standards, assessment, accountability, and other matters. Heres a look at the total volume of this college and career readiness standards legislation in 2016 as of March 8:

Its important to stress that as of Monday, only 10 state legislatures have wrapped up their 2016 sessions as of Monday. (Another four states dont have regular sessions this calendar year, and two states, Arkansas and North Carolina, have yet to begin their regular sessions, and another two, Louisiana and Minnesota, started their sessions after March 8, the last time NCSLs tracker was updated.) However, many sessions are getting close to the finish line, and were past the bill-introduction deadline in the majority of states , according to Stateside Associates, a lobbying firm.

According to NCSL, the majority of the bills, about 500, deal with assessment in some fashion. Many of the bills deal with multiple topics. The number of bills dealing with assessment and accountability, for example, is 149 so farhow states factor assessment into accountability, remember, is one of several hot topics under ESSA. But thats down from the 180 such bills NCSL counted for 2015 sessions.

As for other high-profile issues? So far in 2016, there have been 34 bills to revoke a states adoption of the common core. That number is down from 49 such bills in 2015. The number of bills that would allow parents to opt their students out of state exams, meanwhile, has held relatively steady, with 48 such bills introduced last year and 46 introduced so far this year.

Remember, the 2016 sessions wont necessarily be the only chance lawmakers have to decide how to change state policy before ESSA starts. State plans for ESSA will have to be submitted and approved before the start of the 2017-18 school year, when life under the new law well and truly begins. The step-by-step timeline for states transition to the law is not entirely clear yet, but state lawmakers and others still have significant time to consider how they want to exercise their newfound power under ESSA.

Click the link in the second paragraph for more data about the volume and nature of bills introduced.

Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 .
My senior class in high school put on the musical Fiddler On the Roof, and while I am not the most theatrically inclined guy, a girl I liked was in the play, so I also auditioned. She got a lead role. My lack of talent landed me in a group where I could do the least damage, a group referred to in the script as crowd.

It dawned on me that I had committed myself to weeks of rehearsals that would get me no closer to the girl. I could relate to Tevyes feelings about lifes injustices in the lines of the song If I Were a Rich Man: God who made the lion and the lamb, you decreed I should be what I am. Would it spoil some vast eternal plan, if I were a wealthy man?



We all have pretty good confidence in our own ability to assess what is truly best for us. But do we really know what would ultimately bring us the highest good? What if the Lord is trying to weave a better best into our journey?

Could it be that God knows more than we do about things that contribute to the health of the soul and the development of our character? Deep down, we all know the answer. Still, like Tevye in Fiddler, we often pine for an easier life. Its only human to do so. But what could be the value of the struggles and stresses that God allows in?

God is loving and good, yet life can be brutally rough. Whats the deal?



It is common to assume that part of Gods job description includes the responsibility to make our lives easier. But previous generations didnt think this way. Centuries of faithful folk have lived under the convictions that character is built and valor is displayed not when life is always rosy (which is impossible)  but when noble purpose is consistently maintained even in the midst of hardship.

At the Nicene Council (an important church meeting in the 4th century A.D.), the suffering that was endured for cherished beliefs was on vivid display. Of the 318 delegates attending, fewer than 12 had not lost an eye or a hand; few did not limp on a leg lamed by torture for their Christian faith. We are the beneficiaries of those who did not make their service to God contingent on being given what was necessarily "easy."

Humans tend to seek earthly things over God. We are prone to quest after this or that, often oblivious to the fact that what our hearts truly desire is not found on earth. We continue to long for something even after getting that new car, achieving the promotion at work, or buying the dream house.

Its important for Christian children to understand that the things of this world dont ultimately satisfy  yet seeking God does satisfy.

Here are 15 reasons God doesnt always make life easier. Maybe  just maybe  God has a purpose in allowing some pain into our lives.

Suffering:

1.) uncovers what is really inside of our hearts.

2.) breaks us of our pride.

3.) can mature us.

4.) can breed humility.

5.) can jumpstart our prayer life.

6.) may prompt a non-believer to see the need for God.

7.) may lead a Christian to admit and forsake sin.

8.) can deepen our appreciation for Scripture.

9.) helps us appreciate others who were victorious.

10.) can take our eyes off ourselves and this world.

11.) can teach us firsthand that God truly is sufficient.

12.) can connect us with other people.

13.) can reposition ones life for new areas of vocation or ministry.

14.) can make us grateful for what we had or still have.

15.) properly handled, will result in rewards in heaven.

God has a wonderful plan for each persons life. That is my firm belief. But in order for His plan to unfold and lifes story to be written, God must free us from selfish attitudes and teach us to have full assurance that we can trust Him in all things. We should bring our needs to God in confidence  but He sometimes expects us to do without so we can develop endurance and patience.

We are never promised an easy life, but we do know that God will walk with us through our ups and downs (Hebrews 13:5). We also know that sometimes He is disciplining us out of love (Proverbs 3:1112; Hebrews 12:1011).

Lifes inevitable hard times come  but the upside is that such tough experiences teach us to trust in God.

Dr. Alex McFarland is a preacher, speaker and author of 15 books, including his latest, "The God You Thought You Knew." He hosts "Exploring the Word" on American Family Radio and "Viral Truth," which airs on NRB Network.

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Tennessee police said speed may have been a factor in a freak crash early Saturday morning that ended with a car dangling from power lines.

Crazy story of the night - Car tangled in power lines near Medina. Driver still inside. #WBBJ pic.twitter.com/eG15PAvWhT  Dan Lampariello (@WBBJ7Dan) March 26, 2016

Rescuers finally pulled a woman from the car after nearly two hours.

She ran up the guy-wire on the pole in a freak accident, and the car spun around the pole, Medina Fire Chief Jeff Rollins told The Jackson Sun.

The posted speed limit on West Church Avenue is 30 miles per hour; its unclear how fast the woman may have been driving. Officials said there was no indication alcohol or drugs were involved in the crash.

Once rescue crews broke her window, the fire department used a bucket truck to secure the woman and lower her to the ground. She was not badly hurt, Rollins said.

Ive been doing this for 38 years, and Ive never seen this before, he added.
Twenty-seven years ago, Irans Ayatollah Khomeini called for the death of a British author, giving new fame to Salman Rushdie and infamy to the term fatwa.

Rushdie, whose The Satanic Verses had been deemed offensive to Muslims, remains threatened by the Islamic decree, but six American women who lack the resources of a best-selling author also have been marked for death by Muslim leaders. Some have been driven from their homes and jobs and even forced to live the rest of their lives in hiding, with little hope that the fatwa will be lifted.

It is not safe, of course, not even in the West, for anyone who has a fatwa of death issued against them, Nonie Darwish told FoxNews.com.

I just look over my shoulder in the parking lot.  Raheel Raza, subject of fatwa

Darwish, an Egyptian-born U.S. citizen who was born Muslim and later converted to Christianity, spoke out against radical Islam following the 9/11 attacks. She has since been the subject of multiple fatwas issued by various Islamic clerics. Like others who bear a price on their heads, Darwish stays below the radar, and constantly looks over her shoulder.

There are constant attempts to silence us by many Islamic organizations, she said. We are the No. 1 target of jihadists and ISIS sympathizers who are now in all 50 states.

Darwish is cut off from her family in Egypt, which disapproved of her decision to speak out. She has published several books, including The Devil We Dont Know: The Dark Side of Revolutions in the Middle East, and is the founder and president of Arabs for Israel.

Molly Norris was a respected newspaper cartoonist in 2010, when Comedy Central censored a South Park episode that featured the prophet of Islam, Muhammad, amid outrage from extremists. Norris fought back with free speech, but it cost her her career.

Norris drew a cartoon of the religious figure, whom Islamist scholars believe must never be portrayed, on various items such as a teacup, a thimble and a domino. Her work was never formally published, but images went viral on the Internet and helped promote Everybody Draw Muhammad Day.

Suddenly, Norris was deluged with death threats. Influential U.S.-born Muslim cleric Anwar Al-Awlaki issued a fatwa calling for her death a year before he was killed by a U.S drone strike in Yemen.

Former FBI counter-terrorism agent David Gomez, who handled Norris case from the Seattle field office at the time, told FoxNews.com that the bureau advised Norris of the very legitimate threats against her. The bureau stopped short of telling Gomez to go underground, but advised her to take certain precautions, including changing her appearance.

Norris opted to disappear, leaving her job and home and cutting off communication with friends and neighbors.

Molly really took the advice to heart, Gomez said. She really went dark.

A source told FoxNews.com that Norris is alive and living a new, quiet life in an undisclosed location and that the decision to completely disappear was spurred by fear for the lives of her loved ones. However, many argue she was hardly given a choice.

People are shocked to realize a journalist inside the U.S. could be forced into hiding by radical Islam, said author Larry Kelley, founder of the Free Molly Norris Foundation. This issue is a really big one as far as our freedoms are concerned.

Kelleys foundation has raised an undisclosed sum and hopes to give it to Norris to help her get by, but hasnt been able to get in touch with her.

And the fatwa against Norris has not faded. She was again spotlighted three years ago in Al Qaedas Inspire magazine on its Wanted: Dead or Alive for Crimes Against Islam list alongside the likes of Rushdie and French cartoonist Stephane Charbonnier, known for his irreverent drawings of Muhammad.

The fatwa against Charbonnier ended Jan. 7, 2015, when two Muslim fanatics stormed the offices of his employer, the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, and killed him and 11 others. If Norris had thought about resurfacing, the attack surely gave her new pause.

I do hope she is okay, said Mark Baumgarten, the current editor of Seattle Weekly, one of a number of publications Norris contributed to before going into hiding. But I have no way of knowing.

Fatwas are not empty threats, according to experts. Many subjects in addition to Charbonnier have been killed by fanatics who believe they win eternal favor by making good on the threats. Egyptian academic Forag Foda, who wrote in defense of secularism and Western values, was assassinated in 1992 after a fatwa from Sheikh Gad al-Haq Ali Gad al-Haq, who at the time was the Grand Imam of al-Azhar, Egypts highest authority in Sunni Islamic thought and Islamic jurisprudence.

After the order went out against Rushdie, the British-Indian author hired armed guards, traveled under a phony name, wore disguises and rarely saw his own son. Stores that sold his books were burned and the Japanese translator of The Satanic Verses was murdered.

Just last month, 40 state-run Iranian media outlets added a reported $600,000 to the near $4 million bounty for Rushdies head and renewed calls for his death.

Depending on the issue, a fatwa could be permanent or temporary. In the case of established principles like respecting prophet, it is permanent, Daniel Akbari, an Islamic scholar and Shariah-certified lawyer for the Supreme Court of Iran, now an adjunct professor of law at St. Marys University in Texas, told FoxNews.com. Going underground and living secretly is the first step the targets of fatwa take to avoid the life-threatening danger that could even threaten the life of their families. They have to limit the number of people they used to socialize with and in many cases leave their jobs.

Fatwas were traditionally issued by muftis, who are very high-ranking imams. But in recent times, less respected scholars and figures with less credibility and followers have begun issuing fatwas.

Pamela Geller, co-founder of the controversial anti-Muslim extremist American Freedom Defense Initiative, is believed to have been the target of two men who tried to storm a Draw Muhammad cartoon competition in Garland, Texas, last year. She had already been threatened with death from various Islamist groups, including ISIS.

Geller has defiantly lived under Islamist death threats since at least 2006, when her blog, Atlas Shrugs, reprinted cartoon images of Muhammad originally published by the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten. Geller organized a "Draw the Prophet" cartoon contest held May 3, 2015, at the same site in Texas where a Muslim group had months earlier held a "Stand With the Prophet" event.

Two Muslim extremists were killed in a shootout with a Garland Independent School District police officer outside the event.

I was their prime target, Gellar told FoxNews.com. Muslims have called for my death and published on Twitter what they think is my home address. Shortly after the Garland event, ISIS issued a formal fatwa calling for my death.

A month later, a 26-year-old Muslim man, Usaamah Rahim, was killed by Boston police after charging at them with a military knife. After his death, police revealed that Rahim was an ISIS follower who had planned to behead Geller in retaliation for her Muhammad art exhibit.

Gellars strong stance against radical Islam has angered more than just Muslims. She was denied entry into the UK in 2013 as not conducive to the public good and has been branded a bigot by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Geller, who lives in New York City under constant guard, said she will never give up her campaign to warn the world about radical Islam.

I take nothing for granted. Im aware of the risks, Geller noted. But I would rather die standing up than on my knees.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a Somali-born, Dutch-American, routinely calls for a reformation of Islam, asserting that we cannot get away from the reality that there is something within Islam that inspires, incites and mobilizes millions of people to engage in what our president euphemistically calls violent extremism.

In 2004, Ali worked with Dutch filmmaker Theo van Gogh on a highly contentious short movie Submission regarding the subjugation of women under Islam. Death threats against the pair ran rampant and Van Gogh was soon murdered in the streets of Amsterdam, a note pinned to his body promising that Ali would be next.

Now a fellow at Harvards John F. Kennedy School of Government, Ali, whose latest book, Heretic, was released last year, continues to rail against what she sees as the injustice of Islam.

Like Ali, Raheel Raza left her Islamic homeland and discovered freedom in North America. Twenty-eight years ago, she moved with her husband and two children from Pakistan to Canada, where she is an activist for the rights of Muslim women.

I am most passionate about human rights and womens rights in the Muslim world, the Karachi University graduate and author of Their Jihad, Not My Jihad: A Muslim Canadian Woman Speaks Out said.

Her efforts, which include advocating for a burka ban, mixed-gender prayers for Muslims and opposiong plans to build a Muslim community center near New Yorks Ground Zero, have yielded death threats, hate mail and a fatwa.

Raza does not have personal bodyguards, and is not provided protection by the Canadian government.

Many people get full-time security, but I just leave it in Gods hands to protect me, she told FoxNews.com. If I allow myself to be afraid I cant do the work I do, so I dont wallow in the luxury of fear.

I just look over my shoulder in the parking lot, she said.
Jaffar Ismail says his daughter Amal sometimes asks why he and his wife abandoned her in the chaos of their bombed-out neighborhood in the southern Syrian town of Nawa.

Fleeing the town after a bomb dropped by a warplane flattened a house a few doors down from the family's home, Ismail and his wife Maha lived every parent's horror: mistakenly leaving a child behind amid the panic of a warzone.

It took more than two years, but 8-year-old Amal rejoined her family last month thanks to the efforts of the International Organization for Migration, a group dedicated to assisting in migration-related issues.

"My wife and I (each) thought that Amal was with the other," the 39-year-old carpenter told The Associated Press in an interview. "Many children were lost that day."

When the bombs started falling, Ismail grabbed his oldest daughter Alaa, who has trouble walking because of a congenital back problem, and ran out in the street for fear that their home would be hit.

When he met up with his wife, and despite the realization that Amal wasn't with either of them, Ismail said they decided to leave Nawa, assuming that the child was safe with his parents or his many siblings, who had taken refuge in another village.

Unable to contact relatives, Ismail then took his family across the border into Lebanon. A couple of months later, they traveled to Turkey where they made contact with a man who arranged to take them by speedboat to Cyprus' northern coast.

Ismail said the nighttime boat trip, along with more than a dozen people including children, took a couple of hours and cost him $5,000. He said the three spent the day in an olive orchard in the ethnically split island's breakaway Turkish Cypriot north, before someone showed up to guide them into the internationally recognized south.

The shock came when Ismail managed to make contact with one of his brothers back in Syria using a smart-phone application that permits free-of-charge calls. His brother said the family thought Amal was with them.

"My wife started crying, she just wanted to go back," he said.

Thankfully, a few more calls to his father and cousins tracked Amal down: the wife of a relative found her in the street and took her in.

Ismail was eventually put in touch with the IOM, which started to put the process in motion. Ismail's brother took Amal to the Syrian-Jordanian border where IOM officials picked her up and supplied her with a Cypriot visa. She was then put on a plane to Cyprus with a female, Arabic-speaking escort and reunited with her family, which in the meantime had grown by one  another baby sister, Aryam, now a precocious 18-month-old.

Ismail said Amal is only now getting over her fear of loud noises. "If a motorcycle passes by our home, she comes into the room crying," he says. Then there's the single strand of white hair that he found among Amal's black, shoulder-length hair that he says is probably owed to the anxiety of separation.

Like the overwhelming majority of Syrians who fled their homeland and arrived in Cyprus, Ismail was granted subsidiary protection. Although fully entitled to all the rights afforded to an asylum-seeker, those under subsidiary protection cannot bring family members to join them.

IOM Cyprus chief officer Natasa Xenophontos Koudouna said Ismail was granted an exception by the Cypriot interior minister after his case was reviewed, allowing for Amal to be reunited with her family.

According to migration department figures, of the 1,384 people who were granted subsidiary protection last year, 1,350 were Syrians; so far this year, 176 of 188 people granted subsidiary protection are Syrians.

As Interior Minister Socrates Hasikos put it, Cyprus has been "fortunate" not to experience the mass influx of migrants over the course of the Syrian conflict, despite its close proximity to the country itself  less than 62 miles at its easternmost tip from the Syrian coastline.

Cyprus' distance from the European mainland and troubled economy that needed a bailout from European Union partners to get back on its feet haven't made the island an attractive destination.

But as the EU has struck a deal with Turkey to massively curtail flows of migrants into the continent through Greece, it's believed that migrants will seek out new routes and Cyprus may experience a spike in arrivals, possibly through the breakaway north.

"Migrant arrivals to Cyprus could increase as people seek alternative routes to Europe if flows from Turkey to Greece stop or are greatly reduced," said the IOM's Xenophontos Koudona.

Ismail said the war took everything from him  his carpentry shop where he employed 10 people, and his three properties. He's already spent the $33,500 in savings he brought with him from home and lives on a $1,005 allowance he receives from the state.

Now he's looking to get Alaa the surgery she needs to walk properly, in Germany where his wife has family.

"The people are nice here, but it's difficult," he said. "Life in Syria is a thousand times better. ... Hopefully the war will stop and we'll be able to go back."

Not for little Amal. "I don't want to go back home," she said.
Pakistan's prime minister on Monday vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror following the Sunday suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter in the eastern city of Lahore, killing 70 people and injuring around 300.

In response to the attack, the military reportedly arrested dozens in raids in eastern Punjab, where several deadly militant organizations are headquartered.

And in Lahore, forensic experts sifted through the debris in the park where the suicide attack took place. The bomb had been a crude devise loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the bodies of its victims to cause maximum damage, counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail said. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, saying he was known as a militant recruiter.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis condemned the deadly bombing, urging prayers to God to "stop the hands of violent people sowing terror and death.

The pope, speaking to the faithful in St. Peter's Square, said many of the victims were women and children and that Pakistan should "make every effort to restore security and serenity" to Pakistanis, particularly religious minorities in the largely Muslim Asian nation.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which has sworn allegiance to ISIS, told The Associated Press late Sunday that the suicide bomber deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter in the park. The mostly-Muslim country has a small Christian community, accounting for less than two percent of Pakistan's total population.

The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year.

But most of those killed Sunday were Muslims, The Associated Press reported. Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians, Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal said. Another 12 bodies have not yet been identified, he added.

Shama Pervez, widowed mother of 11-year-old Sahil Pervez who died in the blast, was inconsolable during funeral prayers Monday. Her son, a fifth grader at a local Catholic school, had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

The U.S. State Department did not respond Monday to a query as to whether it regarded the attack as one specifically targeting Christians.

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Lahore bombing, saying that in targeting a park filled with children, the attack "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" to the authorities and the people of Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

The attack underscored both the precarious position of Pakistan's minorities and the fact that the militants are still capable of staging wide-scale assaults despite a months-long military offensive targeting their hideouts and safe havens in remote tribal areas.

As the country began observing a three-day mourning period on Monday, riots erupted for a second day in the capital of Islamabad when extremists who have been staging a protest since Sunday surged toward the Parliament and other key buildings in the city center. The demonstrators set cars on fire, demanding that the authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The army was again deployed to subdue the rioters.

Extremists had marched into the city on Sunday in protest of the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. Qadri was convicted for the 2011 murder of Governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them.

The army deployed Pakistan paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

Prime Minister Sharif, meanwhile, cancelled a planned trip to Great Britain on Monday and held a high-level security meeting.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Sharif's leanings toward the West. They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women. Sharif also this month announced recognition of holidays celebrated by the country's minority religions, recognizing the Hindu festival of Holi as well as Easter.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
The deadly toll of terrorism around the globe has jumped nearly 800 percent in the past five years, according to an exhaustive new report that blames the alarming expansion of Islamist groups across the Middle East and Africa.

The nonprofit Investigative Project on Terrorism found that an average of nearly 30,000 people per year have been killed by terrorists since 2010, when terrorism's death toll was 3,284. The authors of the study, which tabulated the numbers through the end of 2015, say that the exponential increase shows two troubling trends: More attacks are happening, and they tend to be deadlier than ever.

Everyone has known that terrorist attacks have generally been increasing yearly since 9/11, Steven Emerson, executive director of IPT, tells FoxNews.com. But the magnitude of the increase of the attacks surprised us, especially in the past five years. Even if you look back at the annual reports issued by the most senior analysts in the top five intelligence and counter-terrorism agencies, there is not one report that predicted or forecasted that we would likely see such a massive escalation of attacks.

Its clear that they are they [terror groups] are focused in in the Middle East and in Africa...And its in many of the countries where the U.S. has been involved. They have all become failed states.  Former House Intelligence Committee Chairman Pete Hoekstra

The study says that the rise is due, in part, to the fact that Islamist terror groups are operating in more countries than ever, especially in the Middle East and Africa. ISIS, which split from Al Qaeda in early 2014, now has a presence or affiliation in several Middle Eastern countries, Africa and Southeast Asia.

In addition to ISIS, groups like Boko Haram in Nigeria and Al Shabaab in Somalia have been on the rise in the last few years. The Taliban has been resurgent in Afghanistan and Pakistan, where it took responsibility for Sunday's Easter attack on Christians in Lahore; Kurdish-affiliated groups have been blamed for bombings in Turkey; Palestinian terrorists have waged at least two uprisings in Israel and Al Qaeda has continued to be active in Syria and Yemen, among other locations.

The terror groups, particularly those in the Middle East, have new access to deadlier weapons, which they have used to destabilize governments and terrorize citizens, said Emerson.

He cited the descent of Libya and Syria into civil war and the willingness of Iran, Russia, North Korea and Qatar to provide arms to terrorist groups as reasons for the increased potency of terror attacks.

IPT's report used data collected by the University of Marylands Global Terrorism Database. Looking at various intervals following the 9/11 attacks, and sorting out deaths caused by clear acts of terrorism -- not simply war involving known terrorist groups -- IPT found annual terror deaths have jumped 774 percent since the 2007-11 average.

[The numbers] are striking when you take into account where the numbers were at the beginning period, said Pete Hoekstra, who chaired the House Intelligence Committee when he represented Michigan in the U.S. Congress. "I dont think people have grasped how significant these [death toll] numbers are."

Hoekstra, an IPT fellow, helped the IPT analyze data from four separate time periods, between 2001-2015. From 2001-2006, there was an annual average of 2,508 terror fatalities around the world. That number rose to 3,284 between 2007 and 2011. During 2012-2013, the annual average tripled to 9,537, and, in the past two years, that number tripled again, raising the death toll to a staggering 28,708 per year, making it the current annual average.

The U.S. has had success fighting individual terror groups, including Al Qaeda, but when one is suppressed, others rise, said Emerson. What is needed is a comprehensive approach targeting the ideology, he said.

There has never been a U.S. or allied strategy to go after radical Islam, Emerson said. There have been, however, strategies to go after specific groups like Al Qaeda or AQAP or ISIS. But these are all subsets of radical Islam.

The IPT analysis shows that the growth in terror-related murder is not only attributable to the emergence of ISIS, but also to a wider theater of operations for terror groups overall. While the Islamic State is responsible for at least 10,780 deaths since 2013, the rise of other extremist groups like Boko Haram and Al Shabbab in Africa has accounted for tens of thousands of terror deaths in the past five years.

Its clear that they [terror groups] are focused in the Middle East and in Africa, Hoekstra said. And its in many of the countries where the U.S. has been involved. They have all become failed states.

Alarmingly, IPT expects the wave of terror to continue to grow in 2016 and beyond. Analysts see continued violence in the trouble spots throughout Africa and the Middle East, with conflict spilling over into Jordan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon.

They also predict that Asia will see more terror attacks as countries like Thailand, The Philippines and India are perceived as soft targets, and that due to the migrant crisis, violence in Europe will increase over the next two years as extremists continue to exploit the immigration system throughout the EU.

Ironically, success in Iraq and Syria could lead to an expansion of ISIS' footprint, he said.

With ISIS losing large swaths of territory as well as key commanders, its center of operational gravity definitely appears to be shifting to Europe, where it can recruit among the more than 30 million Muslims who live in Europe," Emerson said.

Add to this mix the fact that thousands of mosques in Europe are controlled by Salfists, Wahabists and the Muslim Brotherhood  which indoctrinate their followers," he said, "and you have a future recipe for a massive increase in Islamist terrorist violence.
The status of a Catholic priest kidnapped by Islamic State fighters in Yemen was unclear Monday after his captors reportedly threatened to crucify him on Good Friday, the day Catholics observe the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at Calvary.

The Washington Times reported the kidnappers followed through on their threats to kill Father Tom Uzhunnalil on a cross.

However, the Rome bureau chief for Catholic News Service said Bishop Paul Hinder -- based in the United Arab Emirates' capital of Abu Dhabi -- had "indications" the Indian priest was still alive. Cindy Wooden tweeted the news Monday.

Uzhunnalil was abducted by militants when they attacked a retirement home in southern Yemen nearly a month ago, killing 16 people including four nuns, according to Missionaries of Charity, a group established by Mother Teresa.

The priest was handcuffed and taken away by the attackers when they stormed the retirement home in Aden, charity spokeswoman Sunita Kumar said. The attack left the home and its chapel in ruins.

After they entered the retirement home, the gunmen moved from room to room, handcuffing their victims before shooting them in the head. Kumar said two of the murdered Catholic nuns were from Rwanda and the other two were from India and Kenya.

"We will spare no efforts to rescue Father Uzhunnalil," Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Twitter.

There were around 80 residents at the home at the time of the attack. Missionaries of Charity nuns also came under attack in Yemen in 1998, when gunmen killed three nuns in the Red Sea port city of Hodeida.

Aden descended into lawlessness after a Saudi-led coalition recaptured the city from Shiite Houthi rebels last summer.

Yemen's civil war has split the country in two. The northern region, where Shiite rebels are in control, has been struck by an extensive air campaign by a Saudi-led coalition. The southern region, which is controlled by the internationally recognized government backed by Saudi Arabia, is suffering from a power and security vacuum.

ISIS and Yemen's Al Qaeda affiliate have exploited the lawlessness and created safe havens in the south. Al Qaeda controls several southern cities while IS has claimed responsibility for a wave of deadly attacks in Aden, including a suicide bombing that killed the city's governor and several assassination attempts on top officials.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Father Bernard Kinvi is humbled by the prospect of winning a $1 million peace prize for saving hundreds and possibly thousands of Muslims and Christians alike from the sectarian violence that grips his nation.

He is also amazed that word of his work has gotten around.

The Catholic priest from the Central African Republic is one of four finalists of the Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity, an annual award given by humanitarian initiative 100 Lives, which was formed in honor of those who survived the Armenian Genocide over a century ago. The prize is given every year to individuals or groups that commit an extraordinary act of humanity.

"It is my duty as a Camilian priest who has dedicated his life to the service those who are ill and those who are suffering, even at if it meant risking my own life.  Father Bernard Kinvi

It gives me great emotion, Kinvi told FoxNews.com, speaking in French in an email interview. I work in a remote corner of the Earth. We dont do any advertising, nor do we look for international recognition.

To see my name among the finalists of this award that I did not even know existed is for me a pleasant surprise.

Kinvi, who was born in Togo, started a church and mission hospital three years ago in the northwestern town of Bossemptee, just as violence began to engulf the nation. The region had been in turmoil for more than a decade, but fighting between Christian and Muslim extremists exploded in 2013.

In March of that year, an alliance of Muslim rebel groups called the Seleka overthrew the Christian government headed by Francois Bozize Yangouvonda and installed Muslim Michel Djotdia as president.

Six months later, Djotodia disbanded the militias that had helped put him in power, and members dispersed into the countryside where they began committing mass atrocities according to a report from Human Rights Watch.

The executions, rape, and pillaging by the ex- Seleka members led a civil war with the nation's population, which is 80 percent Christian, to form militias of their own using the name Anti-Balaka to fight the mostly Muslim Seleka. The fighting between the two groups has led to near genocide during the three-year conflict between the two groups.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed or displaced in fighting before and after Bozize's ouster. He sought to return from exile and run for election in November, but was barred from doing so.

Kinvi is creditd with harboring more than 1,500 refugees, without regard to their religious beliefs, as they fled the violence.

My presence amongst them has given them refuge, Kinvi said. Those who are injured or sick are all treated at my hospital. We feed the hungry and we intervene to free those who have been captured. We visit those who fled and sought refuge in Cameroon to give them moral support and encourage them not to seek vengeance.

"At home, children can now go to school, which gives us a lot of hope for the future," he continued. "Its a profound relief for our people.

Kinvi has been threatened by Christian militia members for aiding Muslims, many of whom he helped safely cross into neighboring Cameroon.

I did not check their religion before helping them, Kinvi tells FoxNews.com. I had in front of me human beings whose lives were in danger. It is my duty as a Camilian priest who has dedicated his life to the service those who are ill and those who are suffering, even at if it meant risking my own life.

If Kinvi wins the Aurora Prize, he intends to use the money to continue his work in Bossemptele.

I will be able to purchase more medicine and continue to visit the most remote villages with a mobile hospital to treat the most marginalized people," he said.

But he was quick to add that others in the church are doing similar work.

There are many priests and nuns who carry out the same type of work as I do," he said. "Just like me, they work quietly and do not seek recognition."
Four Americans are confirmed to have been killed in last week's terror attacks in Brussels, the State Department said late Sunday.

A State Department official confirmed the deaths of two additional U.S. citizens in a brief statement, but declined to identify them. The statement expressed "our deepest condolences" to those who had lost loved ones. The department initially said Friday that two Americans had died in the attacks.

Over the weekend, married couple Justin and Stephanie Shults were confirmed to have been killed in the bombings at Brussels' Zaventem Airport. A family member told the Associated Press they were dropping Stephanie's mother off at the airport and were watching her walk through security when the bombs went off.

President Barack Obama telephoned the couple's parents earlier Sunday. The White House said Obama offered his condolences and praised Justin and Stephanie Shults as epitomizing all that was good about America.

On Friday, U.S. officials told Fox News that the wife of an Air Force lieutenant colonel had been killed in the airport attack. The unidentified serviceman and four other members of his family were injured in the blast. Belgian officials tell Fox News the servicemember is returning to the U.S. for additional treatment.

On Monday, Belgium's health minister said that the death toll from the coordinated bombings at the airport and the Maelbeek subway station had increased to 35 after four people succumbed to their injuries. ISIS claimed responsibility for the attacks, which also injured at least 270 others.

Fox News' Greg Palkot and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
By Arianna Prothero. Cross-posted from the Charters & Choice blog .

A bill that originally would have extended Arizonas education savings account program to all public school students has been scaled back, according to the Associated Press.

Education savings accounts come from the voucher family of school choice programs but have broader application: They allow families to use state money toward private school tuition, home schooling materials, and other approved education-related expenses. They only exist in a handful of states.

The ESA program in Arizona was originally created for students with disabilities but it has since been expanded to include students from failing schools, foster families, military families and those living on tribal lands.

The newly retooled bill would expand the program to include children from families who qualify for the federal free and reduced-price meals programwhich would be a little more than half of the states 1.1 million public school students by the time the expansion is phased in by 2020, according to Jonathan Butcher, the education director at the Goldwater Institute, the right-leaning think tank where the idea for ESAs was first conceived.

Thats not as generous as the initial bill , which would have expanded eligibility to all the states public school children over the next five years, but its still significant.

The original bill passed the Senate last month but stalled in the House until the House Appropriations Committee passed the pared-down expansion bill last week.

Who Uses Education Savings Accounts?

An Arizona Republic analysis found that most of the students using ESAs qualify for the program based on their disability status and that most of them are leaving wealthy, high-performing public schools for private schools.

Those findings echo a similar analysis the Las Vegas Sun conducted of Nevadas ESA program, which is the first and only one in the country that is open to all public school students. The Sun Times found that most of the applications for the states ESA program came from wealthier families.

(To read the stories of some of the families that use ESAs in Arizona and Florida, check out this story I wrote for Education Week last year .)

Nevadas ESA program has since been put on hold by a judge while its determined whether the program is constitutional.

Meanwhile, in Oklahoma, a measure to create a universal ESA program there came to a standstill earlier this year after Republican leadership said neither chamber would consider the legislation this legislative session.

Related stories:

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.
A German rail service is rolling out "women-only" train cars following a series of violent sexual attacks against woman in the western city of Cologne.

The Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn rail company says the segregated train cars are designed to make women traveling alone or with small children feel safe, according to Europe Online Magazine.

The carriages will be in service between Leipzig and Chemnitz, and boys up to the age of 10 will be allowed to ride.

Each train will have two women-only compartments "deliberately" located at the center of the train and close to the customer service compartment, MRB added.

On New Years Eve, police in Cologne received hundreds of reports of sexual assaults and robberies, sparking international uproar. Several witnesses described the assaults as being committed by men of "Arab or North African origin, bolstering anti-refugee sentiments in Europe as the region struggles to cope with an influx of migrants.
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Japanese police early Monday caught a 23-year-old man who had been sought since a teenage girl escaped his apartment after being held captive for nearly two years.

The girl's disappearance from her hometown in Saitama, near Tokyo, when she was just 13, was major news in Japan at the time.

Police said the now-15-year-old girl escaped from suspect Kabu Terauchi's apartment in downtown Tokyo on Sunday while he was shopping in Akihabara, a district known for technology and comic book geeks. Saitama police said the girl, whose name was withheld because she is a minor, told investigators that she escaped when her captor forgot to lock the door.

The girl was seen wearing a sweat suit and sandals in the cold weather when she called home from a pay phone at a train station in downtown Tokyo. Her mother reported the call to the police, who raided Terauchi's apartment.

Investigators captured Terauchi in the early hours of Monday near a forest west of Tokyo. He was bleeding from the neck from a minor self-inflicted injury as a result of a failed suicide attempt.

Police plan to formally arrest him on suspicion of kidnapping.

Terauchi attended university during the years he allegedly had the girl in captivity. He graduated this month and even had a job offer.

Police quoted the girl as saying that she was confined in Terauchi's apartment near his university in Chiba before moving to Tokyo last month. She was always locked inside and closely watched, but was not tied up or put in chains. He sometimes took her outside but always closely watched her, according to police.


Terrorists from the so-called Islamic State have advanced plans to murder Jewish children in Turkey, targeting kindergartens and schools and youth centres, Sky News can reveal exclusively.

Information on what intelligence officials are describing as "an imminent" attack was obtained from six operatives from the "Caliphate" who were arrested in the southern city of Gaziantep over the last week.

The most likely target of an attack is Istanbul's synagogue in Beyoglu which also has a community centre and a school attached to it.

"In light of these circumstances, extraordinary security measures are being taken above and beyond the high alert level already in place by the Turkish police, as well as vigilance within the Jewish community," an intelligence source told Sky News.

"Undercover and other covert counter-terror measures are being implemented around the clock.

"This is a more than credible threat. This is an active plot," the source added.

Click for more from Sky News.
A U.S. Marine was found dead Monday morning by the Japan Coast Guard off the coast of Camp Schwab in Okinawa, according to Stars and Stripes.

The Marine, who has not been identified, was assigned to Marine Corps Installations Pacific.

The cause of death has not been released.

The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is investigating the death.

The thoughts and prayers of the entire command are with the family, friends and co-workers of the deceased Marine, a statement from the Marines said. We extend our deepest gratitude to our Japan Coast Guard partners for their immediate professional assistance in searching for and locating our deceased Marine.
Carvel Celebrates Successful Year for Franchise Sales in 2015

Ice Cream Brand Announces Expansion Plans for 2016

March 28, 2016 // Franchising.com // ATLANTA - Carvel, Americas Freshest Ice Cream, finished 2015 with an estimated $102 million in system-wide sales. The companys success is being fueled by continued excellence among both newer and longer-standing locations, as the company experienced a record increase in same-store sales.

In 2015, Carvel opened seven new locations and entered new markets in Connecticut and Florida. The company will continue its expansion this year and will look to develop national presence with qualified franchisees in Southern Florida and New Jersey.

Carvel has been serving handcrafted treats made with only authentic soft ice cream for more than 80 years, and today, our business is healthy and growing, said Scott Colwell, president of Carvel. The ever-changing ice cream industry demands creativity and were excited to continue this growth by keeping Carvel at the forefront of flavor innovation.

Carvel currently operates over 398 franchise locations worldwide. The Atlanta-based company was the first retail ice cream franchise in the country and has become one of the most recognized names in the ice cream industry. Carvel has been ranked in Entrepreneurs Franchise 500 and The Franchise Times Top 200+ lists.

To learn more about franchising opportunities with Carvel, please visit www.carvelfranchising.com.

About Carvel Ice Cream

Carvel has become one of the best-loved and most recognized names in its industry. The company is a leading provider of premium soft ice cream and hand dipped ice cream products, as well as uniquely shaped ice cream cakes, including its signature Fudgie the Whale and Cookie Puss cakes. Carvel cakes and novelties are available at Carvel locations and select grocery stores around the country. Visit www.carvel.com for more information, follow us on Twitter @CarvelIceCream or become a fan at http://facebook.com/CarvelIceCream

About FOCUS Brands Inc.

Atlanta-based FOCUS Brands Inc., through its affiliate brands, is the franchisor and operator of more than 5,000 ice cream shoppes, bakeries, restaurants and cafes in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 60 foreign countries under the brand names Carvel, Cinnabon, Schlotzskys, Moes Southwest Grill, Auntie Annes and McAlisters Deli, as well as Seattles Best Coffee on certain military bases and in certain international markets. Please visit www.focusbrands.com to learn more.

SOURCE Carvel

Contact:

Pat Burek

patrick.burek@finnpartners.com

201.655.3406

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Family Franchise Business Brings Three Dickey's Barbecue Pit Locations to Eastern Michigan

Owner/Operators Ed and Carrie Wenzel will open new stores in Sterling Heights and Auburn Hills

March 28, 2016 // Franchising.com // Macomb Township, MI - Dickeys Barbecue Pit is expanding in Michigan with a franchise development agreement for three stores. Owner/Operators Ed and Carrie Wenzel have recently become the new owners of the Macomb Township location, and will open two new locations in Sterling Heights and Auburn Hills. The Sterling Heights location is slated to open by summer 2016, and the Auburn Hills will follow by the end of the year. As a family business, they plan to give their twins their professional start in the restaurants, eventually turning over ownership. For now, however, Ed and Carrie will co-manage the new stores.

Having spent their careers in the auto industry, the Wenzels had dreamed along with their family of opening a restaurant for years. When the time was right the couple researched franchise concepts in which to invest. They chose Dickeys Barbecue Pit because of the high-quality product, low franchise fees and ongoing training and marketing support. We are excited to offer delicious Texas-style barbecue to these communities, Carrie says. We believe in Dickeys family-owned brand and look forward to expanding our family business with it.

Carrie Wenzel graduates Barbecue University, Dickeys four-week training program for Owner/Operators, on March 25. Barbecue University trains Owner/Operators in all aspects of restaurant ownership, from slow smoking meat to customer service.

The Dickey family congratulates Ed and Carrie Wenzel on their first store opening, and we look forward to supporting the opening of their next two locations, says Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. We currently have seven Dickeys locations in Michigan, and look forward to further expanding in the region.

To learn more about franchising with Dickeys, visit www.dickeys.com/franchise or call 866-340-6188.

To find the Dickeys Barbecue Pit nearest you, click here. Find Dickeys on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the nations largest barbecue chain was founded in 1941 by Travis Dickey with the goal of authentic slow smoked barbecue. Today, all meats are still slow smoked on-site in each restaurant living up to the company tagline, We Speak Barbecue. The Dallas-based family-run barbecue franchise offers a quality selection of signature meats, home style sides, tangy barbecue sauce and free kids meals every Sunday. The fast-casual concept has expanded to over 540 locations in 43 states. Dickeys was recognized for the third year by Nations Restaurant News as a Top 10 Growth Chain and by Technomic as the Fastest-growing restaurant chain in the country. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com or for barbecue franchise opportunities call 866.340.6188.

SOURCE Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Media Contact:

Michelle George

Public Relations Specialist

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

(972) 248-9899 ext. 235

mgeorge@dickeys.com

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Great American Cookies Makes Tax Day Sweet With One Free Cookie for All

The national cookie company is giving away a free original chocolate chip cookie to customers in celebration of Tax Day (April 18).

March 28, 2016 // Franchising.com // ATLANTA  Did someone say free dough? Great American Cookies would like to put a little extra "dough" in Americans' lives this Tax Day, but the kind with chips! The national gourmet cookie shop is continuing its annual Tax Day freebie tradition by offering a free original chocolate chip cookie to customers who stop by participating stores on Monday, April 18.* No purchase or proof of completed taxes is necessary.

This is the fourth year Great American Cookies has given away a free cookie on Tax Day. Great American Cookies' original chocolate chip cookie is a true classic and customer favorite that's sure to melt away the stress of tax season.

"Whether or not you're receiving a refund this year, Great American Cookies is here to add some more dough to your life," said David Kaiser, Brand Vice President, Great American Cookies. "We know tax season can be a bit of a bummer and there's no better way to take the edge off than with a sweet reward from Great American Cookies. Visit any participating store on Monday, April 18 to enjoy a free original chocolate chip cookie!"

For more information and store locations, visit our website www.greatamericancookies.com, follow Great American Cookies national Twitter handle, @Gr8AmCookies, or become a fan of the brand on Facebook www.facebook.com/greatamericancookies.

*While supplies last. Limit one per customer during day of promotion. Counts vary by store. Valid only at participating U.S. stores. No purchase necessary. Great American Cookies is managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group.

Notes to Editors: Media drops to your newsroom featuring Great American Cookies products can be arranged. To request an interview with Great American Cookies representatives, or to obtain photos or graphics, please contact Kristi Betz atkbetz@mghus.com or (410) 902-5053.

About Great American Cookies

www.greatamericancookies.com

Founded in 1977 on the strength of an old family chocolate chip Cookie recipe, Great American Cookies has set the standard for gourmet Cookie sales in a fun, celebratory environment. For over 35 years, Great American Cookies has maintained the heritage and integrity of its products by producing proprietary Cookie dough exclusively from its plant in Atlanta. Great American Cookies is known for its signature Cookie Cakes, trademark flavors and menu of delectable products baked fresh in store. Great American Cookies currently operates in mall-based locations across the United States, as well as internationally in Bahrain, Chile, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

About Global Franchise Group, LLC

www.globalfranchise.com

Global Franchise Group, LLC is a strategic brand management company with a mission of championing franchise brands and the people who build them. The company owns a portfolio of franchise brands that includes five primary quick service restaurant (QSR) franchise concepts: Great American Cookies, Hot Dog on a Stick, Marble Slab Creamery, MaggieMoo's Ice Cream & Treatery, and Pretzelmaker. The brands are managed by GFG Management, LLC, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group, LLC. Global Franchise Group, LLC is a portfolio company of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, an independent investment firm, with approximately $7 billion of capital under management and substantial franchise management experience.

SOURCE Great American Cookies

Contact:

Kristi Betz

Vice President, Public Relations

Social Media Account Director

P: 410 902 5053

C: 443 570 3012

kbetz@mghus.com

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Stratus Building Solutions, Nationwide Franchising Company Announces Expansion into Canadian Market

Canadian expansion exemplifies potential for the franchise brand which has experienced a renaissance under the new corporate ownership.

LOS ANGELES, CA (PRWEB) March 28, 2016 - Nationwide franchising company Stratus Building Solutions, ranked seventh Fastest Growing Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine for 2016 announced its official expansion into the Canadian market this month. This announcement came at the Stratus Master Franchise Annual National Meeting held last week in Las Vegas, Nevada by the companys executives, Afshin Cangarlu, CEO, Channen Smith, COO ,Foad Rekabi, CTO and their new Canadian affiliate, Stuart Erskine of Declare Brands Inc. The announcement comes at a time of great resurgence in the franchising market for the brand.

In February 2015, Stratus Building Solutions, USA was acquired by a partnership formed by three current StratusMaster Franchisees and they have continued to invest to establish the companys notoriety as a heavyweight in the commercial cleaning and janitorial franchise industry. The International introduction of Stratus with the Canadian joint venture is a key stepping stone in advancing this goal.

Over the past year we have met and even exceeded all of the goals we set last year at our companys Annual National Meeting in Los Angeles. The announcement of the Canadian expansion exemplifies our commitment and momentum to build a robust future for the company, states Cangarlu, We are fortunate to have such capable and experienced partner joining the Stratus team.

Stuart Erskine of Declare Brands Inc. and now of Stratus Building Solutions, Canada was an obvious partner in the expansion. As Founder and President of Declare Brands Inc., a franchising conglomerate of Magnetsigns, EmbroidMe and Billboard Connection, Erskine is experienced with the transition and development of franchising companies across international boundaries, especially into Canada. Additionally, Erskine is familiar with the advantages of the master franchise and area developer model having himself been originally a Master Franchisee prior to purchasing the corporate headquarters in 2001; a story reflective of the partnership at Stratus Building Solutions, USA.

The sheer size and diversity of the commercial cleaning industry and the great model that Stratus offers is very exciting. Its really nice to be the only company that has as many Master Franchise opportunities available nationwide, at this time states Erskine.

Stuarts experience in Canada as a franchisor, and his similar background to our own created a synergetic partnership we believe to be essential to help bring the Stratus brand to a new level, states Smith, COO.

With an aggressive five year strategy to bring on 18 regional master franchises in Canada, Erskine is targeting Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta and Toronto, Ontario markets to open during the first year.

SOURCE Stratus Building Solutions

Contact:

Rachel Frazier

Stratus Building Solutions

+1 (888) 981-1555

###

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A group of advocacy organizations filed a federal lawsuit Monday in an attempt to stop a new North Carolina law that includes restrictions on which restrooms transgender students can use in public schools.

That lawintroduced, passed, and signed into law in a whirlwind one-day special session last weekprohibits local LGBT anti-discrimination ordinances, like one set to go into effect in Charlotte, and requires public agencies and public schools to set policies limiting access to multi-stall restrooms. Under those policies, patrons and students will be required to use the restroom that corresponds with the biological sex indicated on their birth certificates, even if that sex differs from their gender identity.

The suit, by Lambda Legal, the American Civil Liberties Union, ACLU of North Carolina, and Equality North Carolina, claims that the law violates the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution and Title IX, putting the states schools at risk of losing the more than $4.5 billion in federal education funding that North Carolina is expected to receive in 2016.

Forcing a transgender person to use single-sex spaces that do not match the persons gender identity is inconsistent with medical protocols and can cause anxiety and distress to the transgender person and result in harassment of and violence against them, the suit says.

After the enactment of the new law, some school officials that had been respecting their students gender identity without any problem called parents to say that their children would be forced out of the single-sex facilities that match their gender identity, the suit says.

As Ive written previously, the U.S. Department of Education has held that Title IXs protections against sex discrimination also apply to gender identity, a claim that some states have contested.

Related reading:

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Frank Emelien Brooks II, 98, of Fredericksburg passed away Saturday, March 26, 2016, at Woodmont Center.

Frank was born on March 16, 1918, in Framingham, Mass. In his early years, he attended The Fessenden School and later graduated from the Capital Radio Engineering Institute in Washington, D.C. While in Washington, he met his future wife, Mary Tyler King, a student at Strayer Business College.

During World War II, he returned to Massachusetts and became a team member at MIT, where he worked on the refinement of the English radar program. He was a member of the MIT 5-year Club.

After the war, he worked at the Dahlgren Naval Weapons Proving Grounds as an electronics engineer, spending his last years in the Space Surveillance Program. He retired in 1974, after 27 years of service.

While he and his family lived in Colonial Beach, in addition to working at Dahlgren, he owned a radio and television repair shop. He was a member of The Rotary Club, Colonial Beach Volunteer Fire Department, and a member of the vestry of St. Marys Episcopal Church. Frank was a community activist and innovator throughout his life. As a concerned citizen, he was a member of many organizations including the Civil Air Patrol, IIREE, AARL, the Virginia Relay Association, The Toastmasters International, The College Heights Civic Association, and a member of a civilian radio network which augmented the military radio network called the MARS Network.

He and Mary Tyler were two of the five original founders of the Dahlgren Credit Union, members of the original planning committee for the establishment of the Fredericksburg Taxpayers Association, the College Heights Civic Association, and they were known as The Watchdogs of the Fredericksburg City Council. Frank was a co-founder of both the Dahlgren and Fredericksburg chapters of Toastmasters International, as well as a member of the Fredericksburg Masonic Lodge 4.

A longtime ham radio enthusiast, Frank built his own equipment in the 1930s and actively pursued that interest for over 60 years, with his last call sign being W4UMC.

A lover of the arts, he performed in productions presented by the Fredericksburg Family Theater. Other hobbies included traveling. In the first 18 months of retirement, he and his wife, Mary visited 49 of the 50 states and all of Canada, totaling 37,000 miles.

Predeceased by his wife, Mary Tyler King Brooks and grandson Frank E. Brooks IV, he is survived by his five children, Ann B. Coutsoubinas of New York, Henry K. Brooks of Tampa, Fla., Frank E. Brooks III, Harriet B. Rowe, and Marcia B. Upshaw, all of Fredericksburg. He is also survived by six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg.

A service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, at the funeral home. Interment will be private.

Online guest book is available at covenantfuneralservice.com.
San Antonio Texas Housing Market Trends

According to REALTOR MAGAZINE, prices for real estate in 2015 began to surge around April of 2015. Their Daily Real Estate News section they quoted Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, "The spring selling season is in full swing.

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According to REALTOR MAGAZINE, prices for real estate in 2015 began to surge around April of 2015. Their Daily Real Estate News section they quoted Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, "The spring selling season is in full swing. Here's a breakdown of what clients need to know about the state of the housing market. Yun continues, "Insufficient supply appears to be hampering prospective buyers in several areas of the country and is hiking prices to near unsuitable levels."

As a professional home buyer Mitch Stephen noticed the same trend in San Antonio, TX. Normally, San Antonio home investors could find a fair share of inventory in the MLS system, but that all ended in early 2015. San Antonio properties in MLS that even smell like an investment grade opportunity get hit with multiple contracts within minutes. Many of the offers will be for over the asking price and are all cash offers. Once bought and renovated, the house just flies off the shelf, but for San Antonio investors, finding a real estate deal to meet strict guidelines for profitability has clearly gotten tougher.

The San Antonio investors that survive are being forced off the beaten path. The days of thumbing through the classifieds and finding a house to buy are over. When home sellers see postcards and handwritten envelopes containing letters of interest in the property, don't be surprised, the investor probably found the property at the courthouse perusing the public information for people possibly interested in selling a house fast.

If a homeowner is in foreclosure, behind on taxes, or in bankruptcy, an increase in the amount of interest concerning the properties owned will be there. Companies offering "Cash For Houses" know that a lot of chaos can be solved by liquidating real estate assets and the real estate investor increases their odds for success by reaching out to property owners that may be in a jam.

The trick is, to find a professional house buyer that actually has the funds (or access to funds) and can close quickly. Just because someone advertises "We Pay Cash For Houses" doesn't mean the investor has the money. Entire brokerages are centered on flipping the purchase contracts they write. Yes, this is correct. Some investors will tell a homeowner that the investor can sell house fast, and then the supposed investor doesn't even have the money to buy it. The investor will simply tie up the property by putting it under contract, and then flip the contract for an "Assignment Fee" to a true real estate investor such as Mitch Stephen. As a San Antonio homeowner cut out the middle man and go straight to a professional home investor with the cash in hand to make a real all cash offer.

Companies that have been around for decades, like Cash4houses, actually contract and close with real funds. Don't get duped. If a home owner truly wants or needs to sell their home fast, do a little research. Ask around. The cream rises to the top really quickly.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.cash4houses.net/

Contact Info:

Name: Mitch Stephen

Email: Mitch@Cash4Houses.NET

Organization: Cash 4 Houses

Address: 4035 Naco Perrin #104, San Antonio, TX 78217

Phone: (210) 960-8174

Release ID: 108277

For more information visit r



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Leading SEO company ShootScope celebrates five year milestone

( March 26, 2016 ) Liverpool, UK -- From its humble beginning in Cambridge, the company has grown exponentially in five years, going on to notch up a number of big name clients.

Today, ShootScope play an integral role in the digital marketing field, having forged a reputation over the last half decade as one of the foremost experts in the industry. SEO remains their flagship service, having helped some of the top companies in the UK improve their search engine rankings.

Since its creation, ShootScope has had a number of notable achievements including:

o The release of its first iOS app which shot into the top 50

o Opened premises in London

o Expanded its headquarters in Liverpool

o Investment of 5 million into an innovative project to create a next generation platform for social optimisation

ShootScope SEO Liverpool say that integrity, transparency, mutual trust and persistence are at the very heart of their success, and hope to continue to grow to reach their 10 year milestone in 2021.

James Cosgrove, Managing Director of the digital marketing company believes that their commitment to offering tailor-made solutions has been at the heart of their success:

"Although ShootScope has grown rapidly within a very short space of time, we believe in offering each and every client a personalised SEO package, which is backed up here by a team of digital marketing experts. Using strategies such as social media, Pay Per Click and analytics, we have been successful in improving both reach and visibility, as well as raising companies to the top of Google rankings."

Despite the meteoric rise over the last five years, Cosgrove is insistent that securing rapid expansion isn't a priority, instead preferring to focus on delivering quality,

"The ShootScope brand has always been about developing close working relationships with our clients and our focus continues to be on creating new and innovative solutions for the modern market. Our next generation platform for social optimisation received critical acclaim and we hope to build on our reputation for providing a real return on investment. We believe working ethically, tirelessly and with a total commitment to every client will deliver ongoing success to ShootScope."

As a thank you to both their committed staff and loyal customers, ShootScope are hosting a private event in Liverpool to mark the five years of success.

About ShootScope

Based in Liverpool, ShootScope offer a full complement of high quality digital marketing services to both local and worldwide companies. With a vision to become the most respected internet marketing agency, ShootScope aim to transform the way that businesses listen, speak and share online. The services they offer include content creation, web design liverpool, logos, social media and email marketing and they have a proven track record in search engine optimisation.

About ShootScope:

SEO, search engine optimisation, social media marketing, digital marketing, content creation, web design, logo design, brand building.

For more information visit r



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Torah Reading Parsha Class Opens To Public For Limited Time Offer

Rabbi Coffman's parsha classes have been made available to the public for a limited time only. Full details are available on Rabbi Coffman's website, where people can also find out more information on the courses through testimonials and the contact form.

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For a limited time only, Rabbi Chaim Coffman, who runs a successful orthodox Jewish conversion class, is opening up his parsha class to the general public. These are normally reserved for the students in his conversion course, and cost $72 per month, with classes lasting for at least two hours per week. The classes take the weekly bible reading and glean from it gems of Jewish wisdom and knowledge of ancient Jewish history.

More information can be found on Rabbi Coffman's website at: http://orthodoxconversion.com.

It is customary for every Jew to study the Torah on a given week. The entire Torah is broken down into 54 passages, one for each week of a leap year. Each week in synagogue, Jews chant these passages of the Torah, so that over the course of the year the entire book is covered in the services.

These Torah readings are ceremonious performances as the Torah is paraded around the room before it is brought to rest on the podium. Readings get divided up into portions, with various members of the congregation enjoying the honor of reciting a blessing over a portion of the reading. This honor is referred to as an aliyah, which translates literally as ascension.

Rabbi Coffman has been studying the Torah intensively for over 20 years, and has put that time, effort and knowledge into his course to help others learn as well. His own mentor was Rabbi is Rav Moshe Sternbuch, one of the greatest poskim (Halachic Decisors) of this generation, and who fully endorses Rabbi Coffman's program.

Anyone wanting to find details on how each parsha class works can visit the Orthadox Conversion website run by Rabbi Coffman to find more information. There is a testimonials section where those who have studied with him offer their thanks and words of encouragement, providing insight into what they enjoyed most about the process. There is also a contact form, so anyone with queries can get in touch with Rabbi Coffman themselves and ask their questions directly.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.orthodoxconversion.com

Contact Info:

Name: Rabbi Chaim coffman

Organization: Rabbi Chaim Coffman

Address: Hababa Sali, 11/2

Phone: 011 972-2-580-5930

Release ID: 107708

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Line Creative Expands Design Presentation Service for London Real Estate Industry

Line Creative Achieving Spot On Design Renderings For Real Estate And Property Clients. Premier design firm, Line Creative, today announced the expansion of its prestigious design services in London and the Greater UK.

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Premier design firm, Line Creative, today announced the expansion of its prestigious design services in London and the Greater UK. Line Creative brings over 11 years of experience in the property industry, offering the most advanced, state-of-the-art techniques to highlight and feature client properties in the most advantageous and flattering renderings. Line Creative are experts in digital, 3D and print presentations for architects, designers and real estate development professionals.

According to co-founders Eylon Sherf and Ron Ziser, "Line Creative was founded as 'The Cube Studio' in Tel Aviv, Israel. In 2015 'The Cube Studio' entered the UK marketplace to form a new company, 'Line Creative,' specialising in property branding, 3D visualisations and all aspects of real estate marketing. We offer everything for architectural and real estate design including CGI, logo design, web design, and digital and print media services. Our vision is to achieve a coherent vision for our clients' properties." The Line Creative website details their offerings.

Line Creative have the highest standards and are experts in lighting, textures, finishings and fittings. They use superior technology and graphics to achieve the most beautiful and realistic examples of interiors and exteriors. "The creative vision of our design partners and developers always come first." Adds Sherf and Ziser, "Our mission statement is 'Architectural Visualisation Made Visual.' We never stop learning, adapting and evolving to offer branding and marketing services, 3D visualisations and breathtaking static renderings. Our ultimate goal is to help you lease and sell your beautiful properties."

For more information go to line-creative.uk or contact contact@line-creative.uk.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.line-creative.uk/

Contact Info:

Name: Eylon Sherf

Email: contact@line-creative.uk

Organization: Line Creative

Address: 224 Iverson Road - Hapstead West, Unit 9 - London, NW6 2HL UK

Phone: 07 976 222 787

Source: http://marketersmedia.com/line-creative-expands-design-presentation-service-for-london-real-estate-industry/108523

Release ID: 108523

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iClean-UK, a Bedford Cleaning Company went 100% Green

iClean-UK, a Bedford cleaning company, made recent changes in their company policy to transition into a full environmentally-friendly company as part of their campaign for 100% customer satisfaction.

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In terms of looking for a cleaning company, one can think about hiring iClean-UK. Considered to be one of the finest cleaning companies in the industry, they are bound to get the job done in a completely professional and ethical manner. In addition, they tend to specialize in both residential and commercial cleaning. So regardless of what kind of cleaning service that a company would require, they will be able to fulfill that.

When looking for a cleaning company, there is no doubt that there are certain things which the client or customer would need to look out for. Besides getting the job done properly, it is also important that the company is completely ethical and takes into account the environment as well. That is one of the most distinguishing characteristics which can be found in iClean-UK.

Thanks to recent changes in their company policy, they have now transitioned into a complete environmentally-friendly company. Compared with the other companies who tend to use harmful bleach and cleaning materials, this company has adopted a no-tolerance policy regarding that. They have finally come to understand the importance of protecting the environment. By becoming a company which is solely focused on protecting the environment and making it a better place, they tend to make their contribution in this manner. In addition to the cleaning products which are being used, even the equipment and machines being used have adopted the same approach. Even though they have been able to maintain the same level of efficiency as before, they are found to emit lesser amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere. This helps in getting the cleaning job done in a more efficient manner rather than the other way round.

In order to become a completely environmentally-friendly company, the changes cannot only be limited to changing the cleaning products and equipment. It needs to be implemented in the case of company and staff practices as well. That is why iClean-UK has a very strict policy of hiring only the best people in the business. Not only are they extremely skilled and professional in their job, but they will make sure that the entire job is done in an ethical manner. In addition to that, they are more than capable of taking on any sorts of challenges which would be presented in their way. After all, the main aim is to guarantee 100% satisfaction of the customers. So the company would always be striving to be their best possible self.

To get more updates about iClean-UK, visit their Facebook Page.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.icleanbedford.com

Contact Info:

Name: Sophie Robinson

Organization: iClean-UK Limited

Address: 83 Ford End Rd, Bedford MK40 4JT, United Kingdom



Release ID: 108580

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Locksmith Tuscaloosa Experts Launch New Website

Locksmith Tuscaloosa professionals are ranked as the best team in the Tuscaloosa, Alabama region. The locksmith team is experienced, professional and skilled.

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Locksmith Tuscaloosa firm has launched a new website to display the range of services which are available in the area. The new website explains the major services related to locksmithing. Emergency access to automobiles, homes and office space is an example of the ways in which locksmiths are able to help. The locksmiths in Tuscaloosa have the knowledge and experience to respond quickly and accurately, irrespective of the location or need in the Tuscaloosa area.

For customers who need to access a property or automobile, it may not happen at convenient business times. The locksmith Tuscaloosa professional team is ready to respond around the clock, every day of the year. The locksmith will have the knowledge and tools to complete the necessary services. The responder is a licensed professional ready to solve lock-out problems quickly. Customers in the Tuscaloosa and surrounding area have access to the highest quality service.

Residential locksmith services include lockout situations, which are easy to happen but very frustrating. Calling a locksmith to restore access to the residence is a common action, because lockouts or lost keys to the residence are not uncommon. The professionals will come to the residence promptly so that the homeowner can continue with the needed activities of the day. The locksmith will not only provide access to the home, but will re-install any type of cylinders or locks which may be needed to avoid a repetition of the lock-out.

Commercial locksmith services are also available to area business owners. Whether the locksmith is advancing security features at a business or commercial enterprise, or is taking care of access issues. The work is accomplished quickly and correctly. Responsive services to vehicle owners who have been locked out of an automobile. The professional comes to the location of the auto and helps the owner to gain access.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.locksmithtuscaloosa.net/

Contact Info:

Name: Locksmith Tuscaloosa

Organization: Locksmith Tuscaloosa



Source: http://marketersmedia.com/locksmith-tuscaloosa-experts-launch-new-website/108563

Release ID: 108563

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Locksmith Temecula Professional Website Launched

Locksmith Temecula information is the topic of a new website, launched to explain the services and benefits. The professionals are quick to respond and resolve issues.

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Locksmith Temecula professionals are rated as the best locksmith service in the Temecula, California area, according to the new website which has been launched. The descriptions of the types of services and the fast response time are reasons for the company's positive rating. The locksmithing professionals understand the value of customer services in a courteous and helpful manner. They also know that in many situations where a locksmith is needed, prompt response is critical to the customer.

The locksmithing professionals are fully trained, with experience in taking care of the activities to restore access or provide additional security for automobiles, residences and businesses in the Temecula area. The professionals also carry the expected or required professional licensing, insurance and certification to ensure that the customer is able to enjoy peace-of-mind. The service which is provided by the locksmiths will be completed quickly, so that the customer can return to the activities of daily life.

Security for homes and businesses is an important component of the work done by a locksmith. He or she has the knowledge and experience to work with businesses or homeowners to provide solutions related to access for employees, residents or other key people. A knowledge of the types of locks and security devices is a key element in providing the most effective solutions for customers.

Lock-outs are among the most common reasons for contacting a professional locksmith Temecula team. A customer may leave the home and accidentally leave the keys indoors. Unless a spare key is left with a neighbor, the services of a locksmith will be required. The services of a locksmith will also be helpful when the customer is locked out of an automobile. The technicians respond quickly so that the customer can get back to the necessary tasks of the day. The locksmith can also take care of other problems related to locks, such as lost or broken keys.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.locksmithtemeculaca.net/

Contact Info:

Name: Locksmith Temecula

Organization: Locksmith Temecula



Source: http://marketersmedia.com/locksmith-temecula-professional-website-launched/108564

Release ID: 108564

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If you were following this weeks negotiated rulemaking sessions on the Every Student Succeeds Act (and if not, my colleague Alyson at Politics K-12 has written excellent recaps ) you may already know that there was a collegial-but-intense discussion around assessing students with severe cognitive disabilitiesso intense, in fact, that the policy experts involved in developing these regulations are forming a subcommittee to tackle this one issue.

Relatively few students are affected by thismost students covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act will take the same tests as their typically developing peers. But ESSA does mark a departure from the regulations that were in place under the No Child Left Behind Act. And, the topic illustrates the push and pull between advocates who would like to have the federal government lay down some bright lines for states to follow, and others who say that the point of ESSA was to allow states more flexibility in areas such as testing than they had before.

Some background. No Child Left Behind, the old version of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, required student test scores to be reported by certain subgroups, including students with disabilities. But the law also allowed 1 percent of all studentsapproximately 10 percent of all students with disabilitiesto take alternate assessments and still be counted as proficient. Schools were allowed to use alternate assessments for more than 1 percent of their student body if they chose to do so. However, all of those over the 1 percent capno matter how those students scoredwould be considered non-proficient.

ESSA and the 1 Percent Testing Rule

ESSA, however, makes some changes that seem minor, but have significant repercussions. Now, a state must only allow 1 percent of its students to take alternate assessments. But the state is also prevented from placing testing restrictions on its districts. Districts are required to justify why they may need to exceed the 1 percent testing cap, and the state can provide oversight, but it cannot just tell a district not to do it. And its not difficult to imagine a scenario where exceeding the cap could be legitimately justified: students with cognitive disabilities are not evenly distributed throughout the state. Some districts have more of these students than others.

You can see where this could become difficult for a state. Imagine a state that oversees 10 school districts. Nine of those districts choose to give alternate assessments to 1 percent of their students. But the 10th district gives 2 percent of its students an alternate assessment. That state is now slightly over the 1 percent cap mandated by ESSA.

Waivers and Definition of Significant Cognitive Disability

The Education Department offered some questions on the 1 percent testing issue that negotiators wrestled with. For example, the Secretary of Education is able to grant a waiver to a state that exceeds the 1 percent testing limit, but under what circumstances should that be allowed? How can a state make sure that it stays under that 1 percent cap when it doesnt have the authority to tell schools and districts how many students can use alternate assessments? Should the Education Department create a definition of severe cognitive disability, with the idea that this would keep schools and districts from administering too many alternate assessments?

That definition has always been left up to the states. But, as my colleague Alyson wrote in her synopsis of the discussion, Liz King, the director of education policy for the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, liked the idea of coming up with some kind of common set of guidelines. Others, such as Tony Evers, the state chief in Wisconsin, said that such a definition hasnt been needed before, and it might conflict with IDEA (now 7 long years overdue for reauthorization).

The subcommittee that spun off from this discussion will dig more deeply into this question of federal guidelines. If negotiators do decide to go in this direction, they may use as a starting point a checklist that has already been drafted by the National Center and State Collaborative and by Dynamic Learning Maps, the two federally-funded consortia that created tests aligned with the Common Core State Standards for students with severe cognitive disabilities.

The checklist, developed for individualized educational program teams, offers some guidelines on just which students should be taking alternate assessments . Those guidelines speak to a students need for extensive, individualized and substantially adapted materials, for examplenot a particular disability label, a belief that a student would score poorly on the regular tests, or a need for test accommodations.

Well have a better idea of how this will all play out when the negotiators get together again on April 6.

File photo: Special education teacher Greta Smith works with a student during class at Buhler Grade School in Buhler, Kan. in 2014. Students at the school were among those field-testing assessments aligned with the Common Core State Standards and designed for those with cognitive disabilities.Steve Hebert for Education Week.

Related Stories:

for the latest news on special education policies, practices, and trends.
Westview Technologies Inc. Releases Guide Highlighting Disaster Recovery Myths

The guide shows businesses what they could be doing wrong in creating a viable data backup and disaster and recover plan , reports http://www.westecservices.net/.

--

Westview Technologies Inc., a Houston-based IT firm, has recently released a backup disaster and recovery guide for business owners. The newly-released guide is aimed at helping business owners understand the myths that they have too-often believed when it comes to disaster recovery and showing them the truth about their readiness to handle data issues. Those who are interested in reading the guide and learning more about creating a proper disaster recovery plan should visit www.westecservices.net.

Richard Schissler, a spokesperson for Westview Technologies Inc., commented "The federal government has reported that 75 percent of businesses that have a major data loss end up going out of business within 18 months of the incident. The reason for this is because most business owners are just plain unprepared for an event like this. While some of them just bury their heads in the sand and pretend that data loss won't happen to them, others believe myths about disaster recovery that prevents them from creating a viable plan to address the problem. We have written our disaster recovery myth guide to help these business owners recognize the lies they believe about disaster recovery and understand the truth about what it really takes to keep their data safe."

Westview Technologies Inc. is not only a managed it service provider in houston, the company also provides communication and security systems for business owners as well. Their technicians can install and support a variety of telephone systems houston, including Switchvox VoIP solutions, traditional PBX-based ESI legacy systems, and even mobile phone systems that are connected to the network for seamless communication. In providing all of these services, Westview does so with data security and a backup plan in place to ensure that clients are always protected in case problems arise.

As Schissler goes on to say, "Disaster recovery isn't an expense for business owners. Instead, they need to look at it as an investment. Just as they would spend their time and money having a telephone system installed, they need to invest in data protection for their business. The simple truth is that companies who do not are at a high risk of losing irreplacable files and information. We don't want t see that happen to any business owner, and our guide will show them how they can avoid this type of scenario in their business."

About Westview Technologies Inc.:

WesTec Services is a "turn-key" solution for all of its clients' business connectivity needs. The company offers efficient and effective solutions, directly and with strategic partners, that create tangible value for its clients at every point of contact. The team at Westec is dedicated to serving all people and entities with a servant's heart.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.westecservices.net/

Contact Info:

Name: Richard Schissler

Organization: Westview Technologes Inc.

Phone: (713) 682-4000

Source: http://marketersmedia.com/westview-technologies-inc-releases-guide-highlighting-disaster-recovery-myths/108550

Release ID: 108550

For more information visit r



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Boston InfoSystems Releases New Guide Addressing Recent Ransomware Virus Increas

The new guide includes specific tips to keep businesses safe from recent viral outbreaks of Locky, Cryptolocker, and CryptoWall, reports http://www.bostonis.com/.

--

Boston InfoSystems, a premier provider of Managed IT Services Boston, has recently released a new guide providing details on how businesses can protect themselves from the recent outbreak of ransomware viruses that are hitting business networks worldwide. These ransomware viruses include Locky, Cryptolocker, CryptoWall, and others like them. Those who would like to read the newly-released guide can visit www.bostonis.com.

Andy Giles, a spokesperson for Boston InfoSystems, commented "Time and again throughout the history of our firm we have seen businesses remain unprepared for a data loss disaster. Unfortunately, the ransomware problem is only going to get worse. The FBI recently released a statement that ransomware is on the rise, citing a 165 percent increase in incidents in 2015 alone. We have released this new guide simply because we don't want any business owner to have to deal with the devastating effects of data loss, which has the potential to shut down a business for good."

Ransomware viruses work by infecting computers through downloaded programs, email attachments, or even infected websites. Once on the computer, the virus encrypts (or "locks") files on the hard drive so that they can no longer be accessed until the user pays a fee, which can sometimes be up to $5,000. Through their IT Consulting Boston as well as in this new guide, Boston InfoSystems provides business owners with specific tips that they can use to protect their own networks from these viruses and stay safe online.

As Giles goes on to say, "Believe it or not, there is a lot that business owners can do to prevent themselves from becoming the next ransomware victim. Having a data security and backup plan is key, as is awareness about certain behaviors that may be putting them at risk. We are happy to provide this information to business owners so that they can continue to build their businesses with the peace of mind that they are protected at every turn."

About Boston InfoSystems:

As a company, Boston InfoSystems operates on the principles of simplified technology, reduced costs, and increased efficiency and reliability. Since Boston InfoSystems, Inc was founded, it has been their mission to assist small and medium-sized businesses in achieving greater simplicity and reduced costs in their IT infrastructure. The company prides themselves on giving clients the very best IT they can find, with proactive, customer-centric support to back it up.

For more information about us, please visit http://www.bostonis.com/

Contact Info:

Name: Andy Giles

Organization: Boston InfoSystems

Phone: (617) 391-8531

Source: http://marketersmedia.com/boston-infosystems-releases-new-guide-addressing-recent-ransomware-virus-increas/108546

Release ID: 108546

For more information visit r



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In response to a state Supreme Court ruling last month that deemed the states funding formula inequitable, Kansas legislature has passed a bill that redistributes education funding and increases state spending by $2 million for its poor districts, according to the Kansas City Star . It does not result in any funding loss for the states wealthier districts.

Republican Gov. Sam Brownback is soon expected to sign the bill, passed March 24.

The court said in its Gannon v. State of Kansas ruling last month that districts with a large concentration of poor students collectively would need at least $54 million in additional state funding to make the Kansas school system more equitable. If the legislature doesnt provide a sufficient answer by June 30, the court would shut the states entire school system down.

Legislators seemed confident that their revision of the states education formulawhich doesnt raise taxesshould satisfy the court. The court is expected to rule on the legislatures new funding formula in the coming months.

I believe whats before us meets constitutional muster, Sen. Terry Bruce, a Republican and the Senate majority leader, told the Kansas City Star.

Its difficult to tell exactly how redistributing the states education funding and adding just $2 million without taking any money away from wealthy districts could satisfy the courts ruling. Several plaintiffs and education advocates in the state complained that the proposal fell far short of the courts ruling.

As of Monday, three Democrats in the states house had filed a formal protest to the legislation, according to the Witchita Eagle. In the protest, a provision allowed under the states constitution, the Democrats argued that the proposal was tucked in a shell bill and rushed through the legislature, denying the house an opportunity to hold a full debate. The protest makes public to the state supreme court arguments against the legislation.

It is a freeze of equalization payments at the current levels accomplished through the artifice of a hold harmless provision that benefits wealthier school districts at the expense of poorer districts, the protest said. The bill also violates the constitutional requirement of equity by expanding Local Option Budget (LOB) authority only for districts wealthy enough to afford local property tax increases.

Last month I spoke with Shelly Kiblinger, the superintendent of the Hutchinson school district, which is a plaintiff in the Gannon lawsuit. Kiblinger said board had to raise the districts local property tax to provide teachers their first raise in years.That cost, the high court decided this month, lies with the state, not local taxpayers.

There are essential things our kids are doing without, said Kiblinger.

The state has faced a multimillion-dollar budget deficit because of a series of untimely tax breaks over the last three years. The court is expected to rule on an adequacy part of the lawsuit, which could cost the state millions more in the coming years.

Dont miss another State EdWatch post. Sign up here to get news alerts in your email inbox. And make sure to follow @StateEdWatch on Twitter for the latest news from state K-12 policy and politics.
Lahore is the birthplace of Pakistan. It is where, on March 23 1940, the Muslim League called for the creation of a homeland for Muslims. In their euphoria as they wrote the Lahore Resolution, the statesmen who dreamt of Pakistan included a stipulation that adequate, effective and mandatory safeguards shall be specifically provided in the constitution for minorities . . . for the protection of their religious, cultural, economic, political, administrative and other rights.

But those statesmen who imagined Pakistan have bequeathed it continually poor successors.

On Sunday, more than 70 Pakistanis were murdered in Lahores Gulshan-i- Iqbal Park in a suicide bombing targeting Christians celebrating Easter. Most of the dead were women and children. Newly wed couples were slain, families were decimated and more than 300 innocents have been injured.

All night, residents of Lahore rushed to give blood for the wounded. In a society fractured along religious and sectarian lines, no one thought of the purity of his or her blood. Some years ago, I met Sadiq Daniel, the bishop of Karachi. I always fight for my country, he told me. Theres no such thing as minorities, we are all Pakistani.

In the 15 years since the war on terror brought death and bloodshed to our doors on an unimaginable scale, pundits have been quick to categorise Pakistan as a failed state. Yet those Pakistanis who live here and who love the country, who remember some fragment of that long-ago dream, passed down to us by earlier generations, have long defended our home against such a fatal prognosis. But, as we commence a week of burials, laying in the earth the bloodied youth of this country, the statement rings true.

Pakistan has surrendered itself to the idea that it can support militant outfits operating outside its borders while deploring them at home. It is this deceit that has rendered us a shadow country, one ruled over by murky powers who speak in tongues, waging ghost wars. It is this deceit that is responsible for our cycle of butchery.

Pakistan can no longer convince its people that it has the means or the will to protect them. When armed men slaughtered 132 children at the Army Public School in Peshawar in 2014, it became clear that the Pakistani state had lost its monopoly on violence.

The state had long ago abdicated its role in providing education, health, and basic amenities to its people. Schools and hospitals are run by charities, the ideologically driven or wealthy individuals. Law and order and justice, phantoms in modern Pakistan, were easily claimed by groups such as the Taliban and their factions who policed villages, settled disputes and meted harsh punishments in place of Pakistans sluggish and corrupt courts.

Finally, the state has renounced its primacy in fostering an inclusive, compassionate body politic. The inheritors of that power, the power to imagine Pakistan, are empathetically illiterate, impoverished men whose value has long been cancelled out by their country, which secured for them neither jobs nor prospects. They have been condemned to this role by a country that offered no options. And with violence  the only power anyone has left in Pakistan  they will decide who will live and who will die.

How can one explain to those who sent a suicide bomber into the park on Easter Sunday, that Mary, the mother of Christ, is mentioned more times in the Koran than in the New Testament  34 to the older books 19? How can one remind them that Mary is the only woman to be named in Islams holy book? Who should have taught them Surah 3.42 of Gods message to his followers in Islam? And remember when the angels said: O Maryam, behold Allah has chosen you, purified you, and chosen you above the women of the world. How, then, can any man kill her sons?

The writer is author of The Shadow of The Crescent Moon
When historians come to write about technological innovation in the first half of this century, they are likely to pay special attention to a US Navy drone called the X-47B  otherwise known as the Salty Dog.

Two years ago, the autonomous drone created aviation history when it landed on the deck of an aircraft carrier by itself  that is, without the help of a pilot operating it remotely. Last year the unmanned aircraft marked another first when it refuelled from a tanker while airborne. It went a long way towards demonstrating the potential for semi-autonomous drones to conduct bombing missions over long distances.

For the Pentagon leadership, innovations like the X-47B are centrepieces of a new wave of military technology that officials hope will keep the US ahead of China and Russia, whose heavy investments in recent years has closed the gap.

We must be prepared for a high-end enemy, Ashton Carter, the defence secretary, said in a speech last week.

A self-confessed technology geek, Mr Carter is facing his moment of truth. Since he took over as defence secretary a year ago, he has pledged to entrench this technological revolution in the way the Pentagon thinks about its future.

The release this week of the 2017 Pentagon budget will give an indication of whether he is starting to succeed, or if he has been ground down by the departments vested interests, bureaucratic inertia and daily demands. Over the past two years, the Pentagon has seen many of its proposed cuts to weapons, benefits and bases overruled by Congress, often after lobbying by constituencies within the defence department.

It is the moment when we see whether or not he has been able to put his rhetoric into reality, says Shawn Brimley, a former White House and Pentagon official now at the Center for a New American Security. So far, I have been impressed.

Mr Carter used last weeks speech to try to demonstrate that his plans were gaining momentum, announcing that for the second year in a row, the Pentagon research budget will increase. In 2017 it will be $71.4bn, which will come out of estimated defence expenditure of $582.7bn.

Fewer boots on the ground

American defence leaders have to cope with a split-screen reality. Much of their days are consumed with the fight against Isis, a drawn-out slog that proceeds one bridge, one dusty road and one booby-trapped house at a time.

But after 15 years of grinding conflict in the Middle East, the Pentagon is also gearing up for a new era of what Mr Carter defines as great power competition. A graduate in both medieval history and theoretical physics, Mr Carter is trying to galvanise the US defence establishment to think about a future high-tech conflict with China and Russia. Only by reasserting American technological superiority, he argues, can deterrence be maintained.

The US military will fight very differently in the coming years than we have in Iraq and Afghanistan or in the worlds recent memory, he said.

The Pentagon calls the new approach its third offset strategy after two previous technological surges since the second world war.

The first was a major investment in nuclear weapons in the 1950s to offset the superiority of Soviet conventional forces. After the Soviets expanded their own nuclear arsenal, the US looked for another edge in the 1970s. The Pentagon invested in technology to reassert US dominance for another generation, including stealth aircraft, precision-guided missiles, reconnaissance satellites and the global positioning system. Spin-offs from this military innovation included the internet.

But over the past decade China and Russia have found ways to blunt those advantages. Beijings heavy investment in a wide array of missiles has potentially given it the capacity to overwhelm defences at American bases in Asia and could put at risk aircraft carriers in the region, according to US officials. Russias sophisticated air defence systems have allowed it to erect what General Philip Breedlove, the Nato commander, calls anti-access bubbles in Syria that would be hard for US forces to penetrate.

Theres no question that US military technological superiority is beginning to erode, Robert Work, deputy secretary of defence, said last year.

Chinas official defence spending of $144.2bn is still only a quarter that of the US, but after double-digit increases for most of the past two decades, experts believe its arsenal of precision and anti-ship missiles as well as anti-satellite weapons represent a genuine challenge to the US in the western Pacific.

The underlying objective of the new strategy is to find weapons and technologies to ensure US forces can fight their way to the fight as one official puts it  to evade the layered missile defences both China and Russia can erect, to defend bases against attack from precision-guided missiles and to be able to operate carrier fleets at a much greater distance from an enemy.

For some Pentagon planners, the long-term answers will be found in robotics  be they unmanned, autonomous planes or submarines that can surprise an enemy or robot soldiers that can reduce the risk to humans by launching attacks. Mr Work, who once co-wrote a paper called Preparing for War in the Robotic Age, said in December: Ten years from now, if the first person through a breach isnt a fricking robot, then shame on us.

Mass attack

Last week Mr Carter talked about swarming, autonomous vehicles  an allusion to another idea that animates current defence thinking in Washington, the use of greater volumes of aircraft or ships in a conflict. The emphasis in American military technology in recent decades has been on developing weapons platforms that are deployed in fewer numbers but boast much greater capabilities, such as the F-35 fighter jet. However, backed by low-cost production techniques such as 3D printing, Pentagon planners are flirting with a different model that seeks to saturate an enemy with swarms of cheaper, more expendable drones.

It is the reintroduction of the idea of mass, says Mr Brimley at CNAS. Not only do we have the better technology but we are going to bring mass and numbers to the fight and overwhelm you.

Mr Works other big theme is the combining of human and machine intelligence, whether it be wearable electronics and exoskeletons for infantry soldiers or fighter jets with suites of sensors and software passing data to the pilot.

He has the bullish belief this will give the US an advantage over its more authoritarian rivals, who are likely to place more emphasis on completely automated solutions because they do not put so much trust in their people. Tech-savvy people who have grown up in a democracy, in the iWorld, will kick the crap out of people who grow up in the iWorld in an authoritarian regime, he said.

The vision of a new technological revolution, however, faces a range of obstacles that could undermine the grand plans of Mr Carter. For the Pentagon the process of innovation is the first problem. During previous cycles, a large part of the research was carried out in-house, often promoted by Darpa, the Pentagon agency that seeds long-term projects. But much of this new technology already exists in the private sector  whether it is drones, sensors, cameras or computational power. The challenge for the Pentagon is to devise military applications for commercially available technologies.

Aware of the need for a big cultural shift in the way the Pentagon approaches innovation, Mr Carter has opened an office in Silicon Valley to liaise with the tech sector and is planning another in Boston. There are other new initiatives within the department. Rear Admiral Robert Girrier, who was deputy head of the Pacific Fleet, has been appointed to run a new office called N99  or the directorate for unmanned systems  to spur new technology applications that can be used in navy drones.

I saw an advert the other night for a nano-copter that can land in your hand, GPS-enabled, Bluetooth, all of it, says Admiral Girrier. This stuff is out there and it is accelerating.

That leads to a second vulnerability  the pace of technological change. The previous two offset strategies helped give the US an edge that lasted a generation. If, however, the Pentagon can utilise off-the-shelf technologies from the private sector, so can Russia and China. They too are investing heavily in drones and other aspects of robotics.

As a result, any advantages the US manages to establish might be fleeting.

No one should be under the illusion that a handful of technology breakthroughs, even if they come, are going to guarantee our dominant position for many years ahead, says Mac Thornberry, the Republican congressman from Texas who chairs the House armed services committee. He believes that only increased spending across the military will sustain the US advantage.

Counting the cost

Some of the hoped-for innovations could also turn out to be prohibitively expensive. Indeed, that is the debate the US Navy is having on drone research. One of the reasons that the X-47B drone attracted so much attention is that it appeared to be the first step towards an unmanned, stealth strike aircraft that could conduct missions over much longer distances than fighter jets  allowing aircraft carriers to operate outside the range of Chinese missiles.

But citing concerns about costs, Navy officials have proposed a much more modest mission for the next stage in its drone development: an aircraft that would refuel existing piloted fighter jets, allowing them to fly longer missions.

Finally, if he wants to spark a wave of innovation, Mr Carter will need to show that he can clear space within a Pentagon budget that is weighed down by the departments own entitlements crisis  rising salary, healthcare and pensions bills  and by the burden of legacy weapons programmes. At a cost of about $400bn, double the initial estimate, the new F-35 is the most expensive weapons system in history.

As well as increasing the research budget, Mr Carter has already picked one battle with a cherished project. A leaked December memo to Navy secretary Ray Mabus called for a cut in the number of littoral combat ships  a new vessel designed to operate in shallow waters and along coastlines  from 52 to 40 and warned that the navy needed to think more on new capabilities, not only ship numbers.

However, defenders of the project hope to restore the spending plans. Rear Admiral Peter Fanta, director of surface warfare, has urged other members of the navy to help him sell the story of the ship.

If the third offset strategy is to take root, it will need more than just innovation, imagination and collaboration with Silicon Valley  it will also require the Pentagon leadership to have some sharp political elbows.
Story Highlights Two-thirds of Republicans backing Trump are highly enthusiastic

Less than 40% of other GOP candidates' supporters are enthusiastic

Clinton's supporters lead Sanders' 54% to 44% in enthusiasm

PRINCETON, N.J. -- As the 2016 primaries continue, with neither party's nominee yet decided, Gallup finds sharp differences in the enthusiasm expressed by supporters of the various candidates. Among Republicans and Republican leaners, voters who support Donald Trump are the most enthusiastic by far, with a combined 65% describing themselves as extremely or very enthusiastic. This is nearly twice the level of fervor expressed by Republicans backing Gov. John Kasich (33%), and well eclipses the enthusiasm from those backing Sen. Ted Cruz (39%).

Enthusiasm for Voting in 2016 Among Republican Candidate Supporters Based on Republicans/Republican leaners who are registered to vote Trump supporters % Cruz supporters % Kasich supporters % Extremely enthusiastic 37 22 16 Very enthusiastic 28 17 17 Somewhat enthusiastic 23 25 15 Not too enthusiastic 5 19 20 Not at all enthusiastic 5 16 31 No opinion 2 0 1 Extremely/Very enthusiastic 65 39 33 Gallup, March 21-23, 2016

On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton's supporters are more enthusiastic than Sen. Bernie Sanders' supporters, 54% vs. 44%.

Enthusiasm for Voting in 2016 Among Democratic Candidate Supporters Based on Democrats/Democratic leaners who are registered to vote Clinton supporters % Sanders supporters % Extremely enthusiastic 25 23 Very enthusiastic 29 21 Somewhat enthusiastic 23 27 Not too enthusiastic 12 19 Not at all enthusiastic 10 9 No opinion 1 0 Extremely/Very enthusiastic 54 44 Gallup, March 21-23, 2016

In both parties, people's enthusiasm for voting in the election could reflect a combination of factors -- including excitement about their preferred candidate's presence in the race as well as confidence that the candidate will succeed in winning either the nomination or the general election. The latter could be particularly relevant on the Democratic side, where Clinton is widely seen as the likely nominee and is poised to be the first female major-party nominee. That contrasts with the Republican nomination, which remains unclear given the real likelihood that no candidate will garner the necessary number of delegates to secure the nomination before the convention.

These findings are from Gallup Daily tracking interviews conducted March 21-23 with 1,358 registered voters, including 635 Republicans and independents who lean Republican, and 610 Democrats and Democratic leaners. The poll coincided with the March 22 Democratic primaries that resulted in two wins for Sanders and one for Clinton, but preceded Saturday's voting in Alaska, Hawaii and Washington state -- which Sanders swept.

Overall, 47% of registered voters nationwide say they are extremely or very enthusiastic about voting this year. That is down from 54% in January, but is slightly higher than the 42% level of enthusiasm recorded in March 2012.

Separately, Gallup asked voters how much thought they have given to the election -- an important past indicator of voter turnout. Here Gallup finds that the various candidates' supporters are paying fairly similar attention to the election. Three-quarters of Clinton and Sanders supporters say they have given quite a lot of or some thought to the election, along with 79% of Cruz supporters and slightly higher percentages of Trump (83%) and Kasich (85%) supporters.

How much thought have you given to the upcoming election for president -- quite a lot, or only a little? Based on registered voters Cruz^ supporters % Trump^ supporters % Kasich^ supporters % Clinton^^ supporters % Sanders^^ supporters % Quite a lot/ Some (vol.) 79 83 85 76 75 Only a little/ None (vol.) 20 17 16 24 25 No opinion 1 0 0 0 0 ^ Cruz, Trump and Kasich supporters based on Republicans/Republican leaners; ^^ Clinton and Sanders supporters based on Democrats/Democratic leaners Gallup, March 21-23, 2016; (vol.) = Volunteered response

Bottom Line

Voter enthusiasm is not necessarily a good indicator of voter turnout, but it could play a role come convention time when the parties need to bring the losing candidates' supporters on board with the party's choice for nominee. Should these findings persist, the extraordinarily high enthusiasm seen among Trump's supporters could be an impediment to Republican Party unity if he is not chosen. On the Democratic side, enthusiasm for Sanders -- most evident in the overflow rallies he has enjoyed throughout the campaign -- could portend party dissension should Clinton become the nominee. However, contrary to what the optics of the campaign might project, it is Clinton's supporters right now who are more enthusiastic.

Historical data are available in Gallup Analytics.

Survey Methods

Results for this Gallup poll are based on telephone interviews conducted March 21-23, 2016, on the Gallup U.S. Daily survey, with a random sample of 1,358 registered voters, 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 3 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. For results based on the total sample of 635 Republicans and Republican-leaning independents, the margin of error is 5 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. For results based on the total sample of 610 Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents, the margin of error is 5 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.

Learn more about how the Gallup U.S. Daily works.
What's 'Patient Harm' and Who Sues for It?

Patient harm is exactly what it sounds like: an injury to a person in a medical context. Hospitals and health care providers are legally obligated to report these incidents to state regulatory agencies, but there have been some very serious cases of patient harm that administrators did not report or did but made the harm seem more mild.

So, not only were patients hurt in the hospital but health care administrators broke the rules of reporting. In some cases of severe patient harm, hospitals reported that an incident occurred but omitted critical details that reveal the extent of the harm. Let's take a look at a sample case and your options as a patient who has been harmed.

Case in Point

One particularly egregious case arose in New York in 2000. A patient woke up from surgery to find her doctor's initials carved on her body. The hospital reported the incident to the state health department but left out that critical detail about the carved initials, characterizing the incident in such a way as to make it seem less insane, as that was truly unusual behavior for a surgeon.

The woman whose stomach Dr. Allan Zarkin carved his initials onto was also a doctor, so she had no doubts that what happened was wrong. Dr. Gedz -- the patient in this case -- sued the hospital, the doctor who had since been fired, and his private practice for $5.5 million in a civil lawsuit, charging that ''severe, permanent and devastating personal injuries'' were ''caused by the carelessness, negligence and medical malpractice of the defendants.''

Were You Harmed?

When a patient is harmed by a health care provider, a medical malpractice suit is an option. Medical malpractice is simply a negligence claim arising in the medical context.

To prove medical malpractice you must show that you were injured by your healthcare provider and that your injury arose from a breach in the provider's duty of care. Breach is proven by showing that your provider fell below the duty of care of a reasonable doctor in same or similar circumstances (for example, no reasonable surgeon completes a procedure by carving initials into a patient so in the above case, breach must have been easy to prove).

If you can show that the breach caused the injury and that the injury is compensable, you can recover for medical malpractice. But to do all that, you will need a lawyer.

Consult With Counsel

Medical malpractice cases are unusually complex and you will need help. This is not the kind of case to try to handle on your own. But do not worry. Many personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys consult for free or a minimal fee and will be happy to talk to you about your case.

Related Resources:
DALLAS  Oregon State prides itself on making teams work in the half court to score points.

The Beavers will try to do just that on Monday night when No. 2 seed Oregon State takes on No. 1 seed Baylor in the Dallas Regional final at American Airlines Arena at 6 p.m.

The winner will advance to the Final Four and play either Connecticut or Texas.

That's why we have the numbers that we do, defensive points and field goal percentage, Rueck said. We make teams work typically and we don't want to give up anything easy, keep them off the free-throw line, away from the basket, out of transition and challenge everything. So, yes, that's our MO and that's what we've done all year. Needs to be another one of those.

It wont be an easy task.

Huge key for them is transition, said junior guard Gabby Hanson. They push the ball like no other team we've kind of seen before.

Baylor is looking to advance to its first Final Four since cutting down the nets in 2012 following a 40-0 season.

The Lady Bears average 78.2 points per game and have scored over 85 points 10 times this season.

Junior forward Nina Davis, Baylors leading scorer at 16.4 points per game, has been red-hot the past two games as she has scored 30 in each contest.

Just doing what I do, Davis said. You know, attacking and trying to cause the defense to collide on me and dish it out to my teammates, and if they don't come, then try to get a shot off.

Speaking of red hot, that was Oregon State senior guard Jamie Weisner on Saturday as she torched DePaul for a career-high 38 points on 14-for-20 shooting.

Sydney Wiese and Ruth Hamblin each added 13 in the win,

Baylor is also balanced with eight players scoring more than six points per game and is hitting close to 49 percent of its shots from the floor.

I think watching them, they know how to play well with each other, said OSU senior Deven Hunter, who had nine points and 12 rebounds in Saturdays win. They have been through it all. They know where each other are and find each other and they know how to work their system really well.

The Beavers will present a challenge defensively as OSU allows teams to shoot just 31.5 percent.

So it will be a game where you're going to see a lot of great offensive players, but I think you're going to see a game where you're going to see a lot of good team defense on both sides, Baylor coach Kim Mulkey said.

We're not as big as they are on the perimeter. Their shooters are 6-foot and bigger. They guard people in a different way than we do. If you look at how many points they're allowing on average to their opponents, it's low. So that tells you that they stress defense as well.
Bonn Easter march : 100 demonstrate against refugee politics

Bonn Easter marchers gathered to sing songs and demonstrate in solidarity with refugees.

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About 100 people gathered with colorful flags and banners and sang peace songs on Easter Sunday. The demonstrators met at the Beuel riverbank south of the China ferry. Their motto: No to war  Refugees welcome! Their action was directed at opposing the EU agreement with Turkey, with marchers saying the agreement was made to discourage refugees from coming by tightening the laws.

Organizers Susanne and Volker Rohde said that previously one had to go to Dusseldorf or Cologne to participate in an Easter march. This is a new tradition they are starting in Bonn; it is only the third year the Easter march has been held here. As they walked, they sang songs against war in an open meeting of voices. One of the lyrics was And everyone dreams of peace  and the time is coming. Because every human dream of peace will become reality.

Marchers walked over the Kennedy Bridge and through the city center to Friedensplatz and stopped before the Representation of the European Commission. There they heard the story of a Somalian man who made the trip from his war torn homeland to Germany and has been living in Bonn for nine months now. Rohde believes that there is talk of a refugee crisis as if the refugees are to blame for the situation and she says this kind of thoughtless discussion plays into the hands of right wing groups.
We have nothing to say about the Shan State Chief Minister issue. This [issue] is raised by those in Shan State. The NLD won at the union level so only the NLD government will appoint the Chief Minister, Dr Zaw Myint Maung explained.

Dr Linn Htut a recently elected NLD MP from the Shan State Hluttaw representing Lashio Township, is expected to become the next Shan State Chief Minister.

Political observers question however the apparent appointment of Dr Linn Htut, a non-Shan State resident and an ethnic Burman for the Shan State Chief Minister position as the state has a diverse population of ethnic people.

The 2015 Election the saw the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) win the most seats in Shan State, while the SNLD received the second most seats. The NLD came in third place after the SNLD.

The NLD led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, daughter of national leader General Aung San, has promised to carry out ethnic affairs and promote peace when her government takes office in April.

Shan State affairs are complicated. A non-local resident is unsuitable for Shan State [chief minister] due to issues of ethnicity and internal peace, said Sai Aung Myint Oo from the Tai Youth Network.

He added that the SNLD has received public support and won more seats in Shan State so he called for the NLD to appoint a person from the SNLD as the Chief Minister.
Last week, Boing Boing pals Douglas Rushkoff, author of Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus, and Marina Gorbis, executive director at Institute for the Future (where I'm a researcher), took the stage at San Francisco's Commonwealth Club to discuss why we've lost sight of the open Web and how the digital economy has gone terribly wrong. It was a fantastic freeform barrage of brilliant and witty criticism, insights, and ideas for rewriting the rules of this game that right now nobody can win.

Listen to it here!





Or download the podcast here.






Everyone thinks libraries have a positive role to play in the world, but that role differs greatly based on whether youre talking to a librarian or a patron. Ask a patron what libraries have in common and theyd probably answer: they share books with people. Librarians give a different answer: they share a set of values. Its time for libraries to step up to those values by supporting access to the Internet and taking the lead in fighting to keep the Internet open, free, and unowned.

The American Library Association Code of Ethics says: "We have a special obligation to ensure the free flow of information and ideas to present and future generations."

That free flow of information on the Internet is at risk because of the past twenty years' worth of centralization. What was once a field where all comers could express their ideas and create tools and content is increasingly reliant on proprietary services provided by commercial entities like Facebook, Amazon, Twitter, and Google. This is not the future envisioned in 1996 when John Perry Barlow wrote his "Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace"

"I declare the global social space we are building to be naturally independent of the tyrannies you seek to impose on us. You have no moral right to rule us nor do you possess any methods of enforcement we have true reason to fear."

At the time, Barlow and many others assumed that the greatest threat to this nascent new world was governmental interference. Instead, commerce and capitalism have led us to extreme corporate consolidation of the major services of the Internet. Cyberpunk had it right all along.

On the other side of the coin, decentralization has become a high priority where anonymity and security are concerned. For example, Bittorrent allows the distribution of content from one user to another without that information residing on any one server. Tor ("the onion router") is a decentralized network of servers that anonymize the pathways of communication. Bitcoin is a currency that relies on no banks or governments, instead using a distributed network of "ledgers" to record transactions. The movement toward re-decentralization often depends on the kindness of strangers who donate a portion of their own infrastructure to the network in question: bandwidth; computing cycles; and technical expertise  sometimes at significant personal and professional risk.

Decentralized systems will provide the information and services of the next big shift in computing: the Internet of Things. These "things" will be decentralized by nature, and that decentralization can be guarded against capture if we lay the groundwork now by creating nodes through which these micro-networks can communicate

Decentralized Internet is part of traditional library values. Decentralized systems are robust bulwarks against censorship, control, and the whims of shareholder-driven corporations. Distributed services have no centralized point of failure  no single plug that can be pulled, no single server that can be subpoenaed  so those services can't be yanked out from under users. Their interests are directly aligned with those of their users, and thus won't languish under uncaring masters.

The strength of decentralized systems is also their weakness. Decentralization means no company can be bullied or bribed into changing the system to make it easier to control or spy on, but that means there's also no entity who can go to court or Congress and defend the system when it is under assault.

Libraries can support a decentralized system with both computing power and lobbying muscle. The fights libraries have pursued for a free, fair and open Internet infrastructure show that we're players in the political arena, which is every bit as important as servers and bandwidth.

What would services built with library ethics and values look like? They'd look like libraries: Universal access to knowledge. Anonymity of information inquiry. A focus on literacy and on quality of information. A strong service commitment to ensure that they are available at every level of power and privilege.

For example, the Kilton Library in Lebanon, NH, installed a Tor relay. This was the result of a long effort to get libraries to recognize the value of their infrastructure in service of a larger idea: helping protect the communication of the entire world. Alison Macrina, the director of the Library Freedom Project, and Nima Fatemi, the technical lead, did amazing work shepherding the project and showing that a library can both serve its immediate community and also serve the world at large.

It wasn't easy, because most people don't understand what Tor is or why it's important around the world. That's exactly why we need libraries to take the lead. Libraries should embrace this distributed future and volunteer their spare cycles and bandwidth to enable the next stages of the evolution of the decentralized Internet. Libraries are an ideal location for these services to flourish, as the services speak to both to libraries' ethical stance as well as playing to the strength of their role as trusted members of their community.

Tor is just one example. Larger libraries can contribute resources to hosting distributed content and apps. Library associations can sponsor the packaging of decentralized services in ways that will make it easy for smaller libraries to install and maintain them. All libraries can begin to explore the possibilities, enlisting their communities as users of these services and also as contributors to their technical skills and knowledge.

Librariesby virtue of their position in the community, their values, and their deep experience in making information openly available while still protecting the interests of their usersare uniquely situated to take the lead in re-decentralizing the Internet. Libraries and librarians can't afford to let this opportunity to drive the next stage of the 'net pass them by. This opportunity must be seized.





(Image: Tubes and Wires, Eddie Welker, CC-BY)

Jason Griffey is a librarian, technologist, and Fellow at the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University.
CIA Director Visited Moscow to Discuss Syria

by Jonas Bernstein March 28, 2016

U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director John Brennan visited Moscow at the beginning of March, it was revealed Monday.

News of the CIA chief's visit to the Russian capital was first made public on Monday by a Russian foreign ministry spokesman and subsequently confirmed by the CIA.

"It's no secret that Brennan was here," the Interfax news agency quoted foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Syromolotov as telling journalists in Moscow.

He added that the visit was not linked to Moscow's decision to start withdrawing military forces from Syria, which President Vladimir Putin announced on March 14.

Dean Boyd, director of the CIA's Office of Public Affairs, confirmed Monday that Brennan visited Moscow.

"Director Brennan traveled to Russia in early March to emphasize with Russian officials the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria," said Boyd.

He added that Brennan "also reiterated the U.S. government's consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria, and the need for Assad's departure in order to facilitate a transition that reflects the will of the Syrian people."

Foreign ministry spokesman Syromolotov was quoted as saying that Brennan, while in Moscow, visited the Federal Security Service (FSB), Russia's main security agency, and "somewhere else," but not the foreign ministry.

Russia's Tass state news agency quoted President Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, as saying on Monday that Brennan had not met with anyone in the Kremlin recently.

VOA National Security Correspondent Jeff Seldin contributed to this story.

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Afghan Spy Chief Blames Pakistan for Taliban Resurgence

by Ayaz Gul March 28, 2016

Afghanistan's security chief is directly blaming neighboring Pakistan's military intelligence agency for being behind the Taliban's expanded insurgent activities in his country.

Briefing lawmakers Monday in the lower house of the national parliament, Massoud Andarabi, the acting head of the National Directorate of Security, warned that the Islamist insurgent group is determined to continue and intensify its violent campaign in the coming Afghan warmer months.

"Intelligence agency ISI is completely supporting them (the Taliban) and encouraging them to continue the Afghan war and capture territory," he alleged, referring to Pakistan military's Inter-Services Intelligence.

Afghanistan and Pakistan, with the support of the United States and China, have been trying to arrange direct peace talks between the Kabul government and the Taliban and an initial meeting was expected to take place earlier this month in Islamabad.

Taliban rejects dialogue

But the insurgent group refused to attend and its fugitive leader, Mullah Akhtar Mansour, has instead recently asked Taliban fighters to prepare for a "decisive battle" this summer to take advantage of battlefield victories over the past year.

Speaking separately to a meeting of civil society groups in Kabul Monday, Deputy Foreign Minister Hekmat Khalil Karzai suggested that Islamabad was supposed to take action against Taliban leaders sheltering in Pakistani areas if they refused to come to the negotiating table.

"But it seems the assurance that we were given by Pakistan have not yet been delivered or have not yet been met," said Karzai, who is also the chief peace negotiator of the Afghan government.



Karzai says that the Afghan government plans to approach Chinese and US interlocutors in the four-nation group to discuss certain actions Pakistan needs to take.

"If, collectively, all of us decide that certain groups are not going to negotiate and if we deem them as irreconcilable, then very specific action must be taken to deal with them. Thus far, we have yet to see full sincerity and we need to make sure that we further come together and discuss some of these issues," Karzai asserted.

Pakistani officials were not available immediately for their reaction to the Afghan spy chief's allegations or assertions made by Karzai.

Allegations against ISI

Afghan leaders have long accused ISI of interfering in their internal political and security affairs.

But internationally-backed efforts to ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and encourage them to cooperate in ending the Afghan war have in recent months led to a reduction in mutual allegations and eased tensions.

Afghan officials say senior Taliban leaders are sheltering and directing the insurgency from their sanctuaries in the neighboring country.

Afghan intelligence chief Massoud spoke shortly after rockets fired by Taliban fighters hit the compound of the newly-built parliament building, but caused no casualties, according to officials. A Taliban spokesman claimed it was behind the attack.

Meanwhile, government and insurgent officials confirmed fresh fighting in the northern province of Kunduz. Both sides claimed they inflicted heavy casualties on the other in Dashte Archi district.

A Taliban spokesman said Afghan forces backed by fighter planes and U.S. drones overnight attacked their positions and clashes continued on Monday. Afghan officials say air raids killed more than two dozen Taliban fighters.

There was no independent confirmation available immediately.

The United Nations and the U.S. military says the Taliban has captured more territory in 2015 than at any point since it was ousted from power in 2001.

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Nigerian Government Accuses Groups, Army Officials of Graft

by Peter Clottey March 26, 2016

A spokesman for Nigeria's president says hundreds of millions of dollars in redirected government payments have been discovered as a result of an investigation into the country's former national security adviser.

An investigative committee has accused 300 organizations, individuals and some army officials of financial malfeasance totaling an estimated $241 million in fraud and overpayments of contracts, says Garba Shehu, spokesman for President Muhammadu Buhari. Sambo Dasuki, who was national security adviser to former president Goodluck Jonathan has been accused of misappropriating more than $2 billion.

In an interview with VOA, Shehu says Nigerians have expressed shock at the enormity of embezzlement of money intended to help fight the Islamist extremists group Boko Haram. Boko Haram is blamed for the death of thousands and displaced many more in parts of the country where they often attacked civilians as well as military personnel.

Impact on military

Shehu said the embezzlement of funds in the national security adviser's office contributed to the low morale of soldiers trained to fight the militants in parts of Nigeria's north.

"[They] came up with this mind-boggling revelation that as they did with the money for the weapons, they just were sharing money all around. So far, the office of the national security adviser, under its new leadership, has recovered more than 7 billion Naira [$35 million] in... U.S. dollars, euros and in Nigerian currency. And they have asked that another sum of 41 Billion Naira [$206 million] be refunded immediately, and the veracity or ownership of yet another 45 Billion Naira [$ 226 million] would be determined by further investigations. At the end of which government will know whether all of that be returned to the government or perhaps be returned in part," said Shehu.

"We are dealing with three sets of lines of corruption. One is a set of people who got money for doing nothing. They were just called and issued money from the office of the national security adviser  purpose not defined. Another set of people and companies, they signed contracts to do certain jobs or undertakings, they got money and they run away. Then the third group, which I said would now be investigated for verification; companies and individuals who got monies to offer services, they may have offered in part but there is no evidence of completion."

Boko Haram

Shehu says since President Buhari's election the militants face defeat. He also says the heavy security threat previously posed by the militants, has been reduced due to what he says has been a reinvigoration of efforts by security agencies.

"We are now at the finishing stage of the entire war [with Boko Haram] now. Because government has been able to free funds, monies that would have gone into pockets of military commanders and politicians. They are procuring weapons, they are paying salaries and allowances to military men and the spirit is very high, among our fighting men. So, much of Boko Haram has been minimized," said Shehu.

The government has officially stated that it has "technically" defeated Boko Haram. But critics say the militants have not been reduced to just common criminality. They cited recent suicide bombings and cross border attacks in neighboring Cameroon as examples that the government is wrong in its assessment of the fight against Boko Haram.

Shehu disagreed. He says the fight against Boko Haram has achieved visible success for all to see under Buhari. Shehu also added that the current administration aims to plug loopholes by which former government officials siphoned funds meant to improve the lives of citizens.

"[Buhari] has succeeded in freeing 3 Trillion Naira [about $3 billion] available in the central bank by blocking several bank accounts and transferring them to the central bank of Nigeria.This is money that is available to be spent on the country. The government will unleash funds on the country the moment the budget is signed. Money to be spent, this money would have been shared by politicians and whatever at the end of the year as the practice used to be," said Shehu.

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Military Strikes Continue Against ISIL in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 27, 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 and ground-attack aircraft conducted two strikes in Syria:

-- Near Manbij, a strike struck an ISIL tactical unit.

-- Near Mar'a, a strike destroyed six ISIL fighting positions.

Strikes in Iraq

Attack, fighter, and remotely piloted aircraft conducted 19 strikes in Iraq, coordinated with and in support of the Iraqi government:

-- Near Baghdadi, three strikes struck an ISIL staging facility.

-- Near Hit, a strike struck an ISIL tactical unit.

-- Near Kisik, two strikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and suppressed an ISIL mortar position.

-- Near Mosul, four strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units, suppressed an ISIL mortar position and two ISIL tactical units, and destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun position, an ISIL anti-air artillery piece and two ISIL fighting positions.

-- Near Qayyarah, three strikes struck a large ISIL tactical unit and an ISIL security headquarters and suppressed an ISIL mortar position.

-- Near Sinjar, two strikes suppressed an ISIL rocket firing position and an ISIL mortar position.

-- Near Sultan Abdallah, four strikes struck three separate ISIL tactical units, destroyed three ISIL assembly areas and suppressed two ISIL mortar positions, an ISIL surface-to-air firing position, and an ISIL tactical unit.

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 a 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, the region, 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 Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Coalition nations that have conducted strikes in Syria include Australia, Bahrain, Canada, France, Jordan, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

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Jordanians, Britons in Africa to tackle al-Shabab 'in world war against terror'

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 9:11PM

Jordanian and British special forces are secretly working together thousands of miles away in Africa, allegedly to fight al-Shabab terrorists in Somalia, a report claims.

Middle East Eye exclusively "revealed" the news, depicting the deployment as part of war on Daesh Takfiris, to which the militants are apparently linked.

The online news portal quoted Jordanian king Abdullah II as making the announcement among US congressional leaders in January.

The forces Abdullah introduces as part of the campaign include those with the British Army's Special Air Service (SAS).

"The UK's SAS is now getting involved in operations with Jordanian special forces," Abdullah said, according to a detailed account of the meeting seen by MEE. "Jordan is looking at al-Shabab because no one was really looking at the issue, and we cannot separate this issue, and the need to look at all the hot spots in the map."

The Jordanian king further spoke of "a rapid deployment force that will stand with the British and Kenya and is ready to go over the border."

He added that "we started with al-Shabab, as they feed into Libya," where Takfiri militants affiliated with ISIL have taken advantage of the power vacuum to gain territories.

'Chewing gum' in East Africa

The meeting was attended by high-ranking US officials, including Secretary of State John Kerry as well as Tennessee Republican Senator Bob Coker.

The king told the Americans that Amman was focusing "on the bigger picture and we are in world war against terror, inside Islam with the outlaws of Islam."

He also suggested that other world countries were not doing anything for the militancy in the region other than "walking and chewing gum."

"The problem is bigger than ISIL, this is a third world war, this is Christians, Jews working with Muslims against Khawarej, outlaws," he said. "The US is supplying the equipment and we are coordinating the efforts and once we get beyond the politicians, the staffers get things done."

Why Britons?

The Jordanian special forces would be embedded with their British counterparts, Abdullah said, noting that the US was too cautious in alleged fight on ISIL.

The king, who has briefly served as a British army officer himself, outlined the problems the government in Somalia has in tackling terrorism.

At the meeting he had with the war-ravaged country's president, he "started explaining the challenges and said everyone is helping but there is no coordination, and that all soldiers are being trained differently, and that they have no helicopters or UAVs."

"We should decide how to train Somalis, and we can also coordinate to better allocate resources so we don't stumble on each other instead of everybody just looking at ISIL."

The ISIL Takfiri terrorists were initially trained by the CIA in Jordan in 2012 to destabilize the Syrian government.

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Nigerian protesters call for Shia cleric's release

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 4:41AM

People in Nigeria have held protest rallies in several cities across the country to demand the immediate and unconditional release of senior Shia cleric and leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), Sheikh Ibrahim al-Zakzaky.

Peaceful demonstrations were held in the cities of Lafia, Katsina, Gombe, and Kaduna with protesters carrying posters of the cleric and other Muslims killed or detained by the Nigerian army.

They also urged the government to set Zakzaky free, denouncing the imprisonment of the Shia cleric and a large number of his followers as a violation of the Nigerian constitution.

Nigerian soldiers attacked Shia Muslims attending a ceremony at a religious center in the city of Zaria on December 12 last year, accusing them of blocking the convoy of the army's chief of staff and attempting to assassinate him.

The following day, Nigerian forces raided Zakzaky's home and arrested him after reportedly killing those attempting to protect him, including one of IMN's senior leaders and its spokesman.

Both incidents led to the deaths of hundreds of members of the religious community, including three of Zakzaky's sons. Human rights organizations have urged a full investigation into the deadly assaults.

The clergyman is said to have been charged with "criminal conspiracy and inciting public disturbances."

Human Rights Watch believes "at least 300" people were killed in the attacks, while Amnesty International puts the figure at "hundreds," describing the Nigerian army's violations as "shocking."

The London-based Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC) says there is credible evidence of mass graves in Nigeria following the attacks.

The rights group added that the Nigerian military has secretly buried hundreds of bodies in mass graves after storming the house of the Shia cleric.

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Ghana Police to Provide Security for Candidates in Presidential Vote

by Peter Clottey March 27, 2016

Ghanaian police will provide protection for all presidential candidates and their running mates as part of planned security measures in the run up to the November general election, says Cephas Arthur, Director of Public Relations for the Ghana Police Service.

Police provided security for presidential candidates in the 2012 poll.

There have been recent media reports that comments by politicians on various media platforms are increasing tension and could spark possible electoral violence during the presidential, parliamentary and local elections. Arthur says he does not believe that to be the case.

"I wouldn't say there is tension in the country as a result of political pronouncement, I would rather say people are expressing their views, people are venting their concerns and this is akin to democracy. You allow people to express their opinions express their views as freely as they can and that is not to say there is tension. There is no tension at all," he said.

Arthur says the Inspector General of Police (IGP) John Kudalor plans to meet all stakeholders to address any concerns before the elections.

He earlier met with youth groups of all registered political parties in the capital Accra and has plans to meet with the leadership of all parties.

Meanwhile, Ghanaians have expressed concern about recent reports of individuals and groups importing ammunition to the country.

Local media reported trucks carrying arms which were seized by security operatives at the country's borders. Others speculated that the arms were imported by politicians to destabilize the country. But Arthur says the security agencies are ready to ensure the country maintains its territorial integrity during the electoral process.

"I can assure [Ghanaians] from the point of the police and the sister security agencies that we are on the ground and we are set to ensure that there is a peaceful election. The [reported] instances and the few ones we have on our records where people committed crimes, and who were found out and arrested, indicate that our intelligence is up to the task, and that we are on top of our job, and that we are prepared to do our best. The public has a duty in this, a role to perform by being vigilant," said Arthur.

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Military Strikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release

SOUTHWEST ASIA, March 28, 2016  U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq yesterday, 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 and remotely piloted aircraft conducted four strikes in Syria:

-- Near Mara, three strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions.

-- Near Manbij, a strike destroyed two ISIL bed-down locations and two ISIL fighting positions.

Strikes in Iraq

Attack and fighter aircraft conducted 10 strikes in Iraq, coordinated with and in support of Iraq's government:

-- Near Mosul, four strikes struck an ISIL security headquarters and an ISIL tactical unit, destroyed an ISIL assembly area and suppressed an ISIL mortar position and an ISIL tactical unit.

-- Near Qayyarah, three strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units; destroyed four ISIL mortar positions, an ISIL machine gun and an ISIL supply cache; and suppressed an ISIL mortar position.

-- Near Sinjar, a strike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL heavy machine gun position.

-- Near Sultan Abdallah, two strikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions and an ISIL assembly area.

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, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

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Attacks reported on Afghan parliament, no casualties

Iran Press TV

Mon Mar 28, 2016 2:8PM

The Taliban militants have staged an attack on the compound of the Afghan parliament in the capital, Kabul, with officials saying the assault did not cause any major damage or casualties.

Safiullah Muslim, a lawmaker from Badakhshan Province, said three rockets were fired at the parliament as a top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior were due to speak in the chamber on Monday.

"It happened when the session was ongoing," said the lawmaker, adding that the rockets did not hit the main building. Other lawmakers said no one was wounded in the incident.

Taliban spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, claimed the attack, saying, however, that it had caused heavy casualties. The militant group, which has increased its attacks on security personnel and civilians over the past months, is known for exaggerating fatality figures.

It was not clear whether the explosions were caused by long-range rocket artillery or shoulder-fired rocket-propelled grenades.

Diplomatic missions and government offices in Kabul have been the target of occasional rocket attacks.

8 Afghan policemen killed in Helmand

In a separate development, Afghan officials on Monday accused the Taliban of staging major attacks on two police checkpoints in the volatile south a day earlier, which killed at least eight policemen.

Local police officials in Helmand Province said the attack happened in the Gereshk district around midnight on Sunday. Taliban did not claim immediate responsibility for the attacks.

Also on Monday, Afghan officials said an American soldier shot and killed an Afghan boy near the Bagram Airfield, 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Kabul in neighboring Parwan Province. Police said the US soldier targeted the boy as he was believed to be carrying what looked like an automatic rifle.

A demonstration was followed with locals gathering near the base to protest the killing of the boy, but the crowd dispersed after police intervened.

Afghanistan is gripped by insecurity more than 14 years after the United States and its allies attacked the country as part of Washington's so-called war on terror. Although the 2001 attack overthrew the Taliban, many areas across Afghanistan still face violence and insecurity.

The militant group recently refused to participate in peace talks with the Afghan government until its preconditions are fulfilled.

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Yemen, Saudi Arabia swap dozens of prisoners

Iran Press TV

Mon Mar 28, 2016 1:42AM

Yemen's Houthi Ansarullah movement has freed nine Saudi prisoners of war in exchange for 100 Yemenis as a "humanitarian" move, a year after Riyadh started its deadly aggression against the impoverished nation.

"A first step of understanding and respect for the humanitarian aspect [of the conflict] was the exchange of prisoners today," Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdulsalam said in a statement on Saturday, adding the freed Saudi forces had been captured in some fronts in Yemen.

Earlier in the day, a US airstrike in the Yemen's southern coastal Abyan province reportedly killed 14 men suspected of belonging to al-Qaeda terrorist group. The aerial raid destroyed a government intelligence headquarters in the provincial capital Zinjibar, which had fallen in the hands of terrorists.

The al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) in Yemen has taken advantage of the chaos and the breakdown of security to tighten its grip on parts of southeast Yemen.

On Saturday, thousands of Yemeni people gathered at Saba'een Square of the capital Sana'a to denounce the Saudi military campaign that has killed about 8,500 people, among them over 2,000 children, since March 26, 2015.

The war on Yemen started in a bid to bring the fugitive former Yemeni president, Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, who is a staunch ally of Riyadh, back to power and undermine the Houthi Ansarullah movement.

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The #FBIvsApple legal case may be over, but the fight over security, privacy, and the right to live free of surveillance has just begun. The Justice Department is expected to drop its legal action against Apple, possibly as soon as today, because an 'outside method' to bypass security on the San Bernardino gunman's iPhone has proven successful, a federal law enforcement official said Monday.

"As the government noted in its filing today, the FBI has now successfully retrieved the data stored on the San Bernardino terrorist's iPhone and therefore no longer requires the assistance from Apple required by this Court Order," said DOJ spokeswoman Melanie Newman in today's filing.

"It remains a priority for the government to ensure that law enforcement can obtain crucial digital information to protect national security and public safety, either with cooperation from relevant parties, or through the court system when cooperation fails," the filing continues. "We will continue to pursue all available options for this mission, including seeking the cooperation of manufacturers and relying upon the creativity of both the public and private sectors."

Did the government obtain anything useful, after all that fuss over a single phone that many security experts said likely wasn't the smoking gun the FBI's case suggested?

We don't know yet.

"It is unclear what useful data, if any, was found on Mr. Farook's device," reports the New York Times.

The government's decision ends an immediate legal battle with Apple that had grown increasingly contentious because the giant technology company had refused to help authorities, citing privacy issues. Yet law enforcement's ability to unlock an iPhone through an alternative method raises new questions, including about the strength of Apple's security on its devices. The development also creates potential for new conflicts between the government and Apple, as how the government broke into the phone remains unknown. Lawyers for Apple have previously said that the company would want to know the method used to crack open the device. Apple and the Justice Department did not immediately respond to calls for comment.

From USA Today's early report, which quoted an unnamed federal official familiar with the case:
Saudi-Led Islamic Military Coalition Meet In Riyadh

March 28, 2016

Military chiefs from the Saudi-led alliance against terrorism met for talks in Riyadh on March 27.

Saudi Arabia announced the formation of the 34-country alliance in December -- and followed it up with massive military exercises in late February.

Saudi Brigadier General Ahmed al-Assiri told reporters following the talks that the coalition was at the stage of "laying the foundations."

Assiri said that Riyadh has offered premises and funds for a coordination center for the new grouping.

He said the coalition would operate within the limits of "UN resolutions and recognized conventions."

He said the meeting of military chiefs paved the way for a meeting of defense ministers in the "near future."

The mainly Sunni Muslim coalition includes NATO-member Turkey and nuclear-armed Pakistan.

But Riyadh's "Islamic Military Alliance" is missing Muslim powerhouses Indonesia and Iran.

Based on reporting by AFP and SPA

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/saudi-islamic-c oaltion-meeting-riyadh/27639454.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.

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US to Continue Aiding Syria Rebels Amid Clashes With CIA-Armed Groups

Sputnik News

20:26 28.03.2016(updated 20:27 28.03.2016)

The US-led coalition against Daesh remains committed to supporting local groups in Iraq and Syria to fight the terrorist group, a US defense official told Sputnik on Monday.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik)  The official made the statement in response to media reports claiming that militias in Syria armed by the US Department of Defense have engaged in fights against groups armed by the Central Intelligence Agency.

"We've seen the press reporting on this, but don't have anything to provide," the official stated. "The Coalition remains focused on enabling indigenous anti-ISIL [Daesh] ground forces in Iraq and Syria in their fight against the terrorist group."

Since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, the United States and its allies have provided military support to allegedly moderate opposition factions, and have called on Syrian President Bashar Assad to resign.

The local groups received aid from both, the Defense Department and the CIA.

On Sunday, the Los Angeles Times reported that the fighting between CIA- and Defense Department-armed units in Syria has intensified over the last two months. The clashes have reportedly taken place on the plains between the Syrian city of Aleppo and the Turkish border.

 Sputnik

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Bomb blast kills 65, injures 280 in Pakistan's Lahore

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 2:31PM

A bomb explosion outside a park in the city of Lahore in northeastern Pakistan has killed at least 65 people and injured 280 others, mostly women and children, officials say.

"Many [of the injured] are in operation theaters now being treated and we fear that the death toll may climb considerably", Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the chief minister of Punjab province said.

A faction of Taliban, which calls itself Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, has claimed responsibility for the attack. Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesperson for the group said, "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore. He can do what he wants but he won't be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks." "The target was Christians," he said.

Mustansar Feroz, police superintendent for the area in which the park is located, said most of the injured and dead were women and children.

Local police chief Haider Ashraf said the area was crowded with Christians celebrating the Easter holidays, and many families were leaving the park when the blast occurred.

Ashraf said ball bearings had been used in the explosive.

Muhammad Usman, a top administration official, said the army had been called in on the scene to control crowds outside the park. Some distraught, sobbing relatives clashed with police and rescue officials.

Jam Sajjad Hussain, a rescue official, said the blast had occurred outside Gulshan Iqbal Park, adding that the wounded, who were mostly women and children, had been taken to various hospitals in the city.

"When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air," said Hasan Imran, 30, a resident who had come to the park for a walk.

Soon after the attack, the Punjab government ordered all public parks closed and announced three days of mourning in the province. The main shopping areas were shut down and many of the city's main roads were deserted. The flags on governmental buildings would also fly at half-mast during the period of the mourning.

Punjab Province, where the city is located, has traditionally experienced more calm compared to the rest of the country, which has been beleaguered by militancy waged by Pakistani Taliban and criminal activities.

Most recently, at least 17 people lost their lives when a powerful bomb explosion hit a bus carrying government employees in Pakistan's troubled northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near the border with Afghanistan.

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Pakistani Taliban Affiliate Claims Credit For Deadly Easter Day Bombing

March 27, 2016

by RFE/RL

Pakistani authorities say an apparent suicide bombing has killed at least 69 people, mostly women and children, and wounded hundreds more after a blast tore through the parking lot of a crowded public park in the eastern city of Lahore where Christians were celebrating Easter Sunday.

An affiliate of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the deadly March 27 blast, saying it deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park near the center of the city of some 8 million.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the Taliban faction calling itself Jamat ul Ahrar, warned that the group would carry out more attacks and that the attack was a "message" to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who counts the Punjab province and its capital, Lahore, as a political stronghold.

The same group claimed responsibility earlier this month for a March 7 suicide bombing at the entrance to a court building in northwestern Pakistan that killed at least 17. It described that attack as revenge for the hanging of Mumtaz Qadri, who was executed last month for the 2011 killing of a provincial governor.

Officials said many women and children were among the dead and wounded in Lahore on March 27.

It was not immediately known how many of the dead and injured were from the Christian community.

Lahore's top administration official, Muhammad Usman, said the death toll had reached 69 people. Officials said more than 280 were also wounded.

"The rescue operation is continuing," Usman was quoted by AFP as saying.

A medical superintendent at a Lahore hospital told AFP that most of the wounded were in critical condition. "I fear the death toll will rise," he said

Reuters reported that the blast occurred just outside the park's exit gate and a few meters from children's swings.

Senior police official Haider Ashraf said the explosion appeared to have been a suicide bombing, noting that ball bearings were found at the park. He added that the area was crowded with Christians celebrating the Easter holidays.

Indian Prime Minister Naredra Modi called Sharif to condemn the attack.

The White House condemned the apparent suicide attack as "cowardly" and pledged to work with Pakistan to defeat those who terrorize the country.

"The United States condemns in the strongest terms today's appalling terrorist attack in Lahore, Pakistan," Ned Price, a spokesman for U.S. President Barack Obama's National Security Council, said in a statement.

"This cowardly act in what has long been a scenic and placid park has killed dozens of innocent civilians and left scores injured," Price added.

Media footage and witness accounts revealed the gruesome carnage left in the wake of the blast.

Children and women were shown standing in pools of blood outside the park, crying and screaming. Rescue officials, police, and bystanders carried injured people to ambulances and private cars.

Javed Ali, a 35-year-old resident who lives across from the park, told AFP that he told his family not to go to there because it was overcrowded with Christians celebrating Easter.

He said the explosion shattered the windows of his home.

"Everything was shaking, there were cries and dust everywhere," he told AFP. "After ten minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances."

Overall levels of militant violence in Pakistan have fallen since the army launched a major offensive against Taliban and Al-Qaeda strongholds in the northwest border areas in 2014, though militants continue to stage major attacks occasionally.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, and dpa

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/pakistan- lahore-blast-25-dead/27638278.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.

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2 More Suspects Arrested in Ivory Coast Resort Attacks

March 27, 2016

Authorities in Mali say two men with alleged links to al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) have been arrested in connection with terror attacks earlier this month in Ivory Coast that left at least 19 people dead.

Police on Sunday said the two suspects were arrested in the past 48 hours in northern Mali, two weeks after the March 13 gun and grenade attack on three hotels and a beach in the Ivorian resort town of Grand-Bassam.

Police identified one of the suspects, Ould Mohamed, as a driver who brought the attackers to Ivory Coast. The French news agency quotes police sources as saying he is believed to be a close confidant of the mastermind behind the Grand-Bassam attacks.

Local prosecutors, speaking last week, said 15 other suspects are in custody.

The North Africa branch of al-Qaida also has claimed responsibility for a hotel assault in November in Mali that killed 20 people, and a similar attack in January that killed 30 others in Burkina Faso. Most of the dead in both attacks were identified as foreigners.

AQIM has it roots in the Algerian civil war of the 1990s, and pledged its loyalty to al-Qaida in 2006. In 2012, AQIM and its allies seized control of northern Mali for nine months, before being driven toward the Algerian border from Malian urban centers by a French-led military force in 2013.

Analysts and security officials in Mali say the militant group has in the past year become more visible in northern Mali, where it has seized control of some local roadways and established a presence in local community meetings.

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69 killed, 300 injured as suicide blast hits public park in Pakistan's Lahore

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 07:18, March 28, 2016

ISLAMABAD, March 28 -- At least 69 people including a large number of women and kids were killed and over 300 others injured when a suicide bomber hit a public park in Pakistan's east Lahore city on Sunday evening, officials said.

Deputy Coordination Officer Lahore, Captain Usman, said that the killed people included 23 kids whereas 56 injured children were shifted to various hospitals of the city.

Haider Ashraf, the Deputy Inspector General Police, said that the suicide bomber blew himself up in the parking stand near the gate of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park in the Lahore city, the capital of the country's east Punjab province.

He said that the stand was located near the kids' swing area and ticket booth and the bomber chose it to explode himself for targeting a large number of people in which he succeeded.

He said that the park was crowded than usual due to Sunday's holiday and a number minority Christian people was also visiting it to celebrate the Easter festival, when the blast happened.

A Pakistan Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility for the deadly suicide attack in Lahore that killed over 60 people and injured over 300 on Sunday.

"We claim responsibility for the attack on the Christians as they were celebrating their religious festival," spokesman for the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, Jamaat ul Ahrar, Eshansullah Ehsan said.

A wounded middle-aged woman was seen running towards the ambulance carrying a badly injured small girl in her arms, asking rescue teams to sift the kid to the hospital.

"She is my granddaughter, I came to park with her father and mother, but I lost them in the explosion, I don't know whether I will be able to see my son and daughter-in-law again or not," the woman said.

After the explosion there was pool of blood at the blast site and people, mostly women and kids rushing out of the park with blood dribbling from their forehead and limbs.

A cell phone with broken screen was found at the site where the incoming call showed "Mother", but its owner was nowhere to answer it.

Police took the phone into custody and informed the worried mother about the situation.

All the recreational parks in the city were closed after the blast and people were directed to stay at home.

The injured people including a large number of women and kids were shifted to Jinnah Hospital and Sheikh Zaid Hospital where scores of them are said to be in critical condition.

Many of the injured were transported to the hospitals on taxis and auto-rickshaws by volunteers due to a shortage of ambulances.

Personnel from Pakistani army also reached at the blast site to shift the injured people to the hospital.

Hundreds of people arrived hospital to search for their relatives who went missing after the blast, but were stopped by the police at the main gate to avoid overcrowding inside the hospital as there was already not enough space for the blast victims.

The nurses said that they do not have enough beds to facilitate such a large number of injured people and many of the wounded victims were lying on the floor, bathed in blood and crying for medical aid.

Hanif Chanio, a teenager who was stopped at the entrance gate of the hospital by the police, said that his brother took his wife and six kids from a village near Lahore to the park for picnic, but did not reach home after the explosion.

"Please let me go, I have come all the way from my village to search for my brother and his kids, my old father and mother are waiting for them at home, let me see them in the injured, let me see them in the mortuary," Chanio let out a wail while requesting police.

Khwaja Salman Rafique, the adviser to Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, appealed residents to donate blood at the hospital to save the lives of the injured people as scores of them are in critical condition.

The provincial government also provided free rides to those who showed interest in donating blood by calling at the number specified by the officials.

The bomb disposal squad said that the suicide bomber was carrying an estimated eight to 10 kg of explosive materials in his suicide vest.

Personnel from Pakistani army also arrived the park and took its control for investigations.

The army personnel also took part in shifting the injured people to the hospital.

Police found National Identity Card of the suicide bomber near the remains of his body which shows him a resident of Muzaffargarh city of the Punjab province who was born on January 1, 1988.

A heavy contingent of police reached at the bomber's home in Muzaffargarh and arrested 15 people including his two brothers and shifted them to some undisclosed location for investigations.

The government of Punjab announced three-day mourning over the incident whereas the governments in the country's south Sindh and southwest Balochistan province announced one-day mourning.

Both the country's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President Mamnoon Hussain condemned the blast and directed hospital administration to provide best possible medical treatment to the injured people.

Sharif, who was scheduled to leave for U.K. Monday, postponed his visit to review the security situation in the country.

The country's army chief also held a high level meeting and directed concerned commanders, Intelligence agencies to commence operations as soon as possible to find linkages and perpetrators of the suicide attack, the Inter-Services Public Relations, the mouthpiece of Pakistani army said.

International community including the U.S., Turkey and India also condemned the blast.

"Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased &prayers with the injured," Modi said in a tweet.

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Pre-Contract Work on Russia's Pantsir Systems Delivery to Brazil Finished

Sputnik News

16:25 28.03.2016

Russia and Brazil have finished a pre-contract work on the delivery of the Russian advanced Pantsir-S1 air defense systems.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The pre-contract work on the delivery of the Russian advanced Pantsir-S1 air defense systems to Brazil has been completed, the head of Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport's delegation to the weapons exhibition in Santiago said.

"Brazilian experts have repeatedly visited the Russian manufacturer, participated in the demonstration range practice in Russia and personally verified its efficiency. All targets were hit on the greatest possible distance and height. We can confidently say that the pre-contract work has been completed successfully," Sergei Ladygin told RIA Novosti.

He added that the Russian exporter was ready to launch talks on the contract, but the corresponding decision depends on the Brazilian side.

Brazil also shows interest in Russia's military and transport helicopters, Ladygin said citing Mil Mi-26 Halo as a helicopter on which delivery the sides could negotiate.

The Pantsir-S1 (NATO reporting name SA-22 Greyhound), is a short-to-medium range surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery weapon system that first entered service in 2012.

In September, Gen. Aderico Mattioli, the head of the Brazilian Defense Ministry's Industrial Technology Department told Sputnik that Brazil was discussing the purchase of Pantsir-S1 and Igla air defense systems from Russia in the near future adding that the first delivery could take place ahead of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Rosoboronexport will demonstrate advanced Russian military production at FIDAE 2016 trade exhibition to be held on March 29  April 3 in the Chilean capital Santiago.

 Sputnik

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KPA Units in Full Readiness for Preemptive Attack on Provokers

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK via Korea News Service (KNS)

Pyongyang, March 27 (KCNA) -- With the news about the ultimatum to south Korea's Park Geun Hye group issued by the long-range artillery force of the Korean People's Army, all its services and arms units have taken a full posture for preemptive attack on the provokers.

Hyon Ki Chong, a general officer of the KPA, told KCNA:

Pilots of the Air Force are now in full readiness for sortie to attack the reactionary ruling machines of south Korea and the U.S. military bases when the long-range artillery force starts its operation of strike.

And all the anti-aircraft rocket units, too, are in high alert to shoot down all enemy planes.

An officer Kim Jin Hyon declared that all submarines and battles ships of the KPA are ready to attack the south Korean puppet forces and the U.S. imperialist aggressor forces.

Noting that world meida had described the testfire of submarine-based ballistic missile as an expression of the DPRK's tremendous military strength and a sort of warning to the U.S., he said that any provokers would never escape KPA's ballistic missile strike.

Another officer Ri Kye Sik said: All commandos of my unit are eager to wipe out the provokers who worked out an "operation for striking the leadership" of the DPRK, before the attack by KPA long-range artillery force. -0-

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DPRK Citizens Hail KPA's Ultimatum

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK via Korea News Service (KNS)

Pyongyang, March 27 (KCNA) -- Citizens in the DPRK fully support the ultimatum to the south Korean puppet group recently issued by the long-range artillery force of the Korean People's Army.

Kim Han Il, manager of the Chollima Steel Complex, told KCNA:

The KPA's ultimatum is as good as the last warning to those provokers by the workers of my complex.

The respected Marshal Kim Jong Un is the great sun of Songun Korea representing the destiny and future of the Korean nation.

It is a never-to-be-condoned crime to point an accusing finger at the sun.

Harsh punishment should be given to the provokers who dared stage "precision striking drill" aimed to destroy the office of our supreme leadership.

Kang Song Man, a war veteran residing in Pyongyang, said:

If the group of traitors does not respond to the ultimatum, it will be natural for the KPA to launch an operation for merciless preemptive strike at once.

Our ancestors had put to death any traitor to the nation together with his or her families of three generations, erasing them from the genealogy.

I could appease my surging anger only when I see the Chongwadae and other reactionary ruling machines in south Korea reduced to ashes by the KPA's preemptive strike for retaliation.

It is urgently needed to show the riff-raffs of the world how the powerful Paektusan army metes out dreadful punishment to those provokers.

Pak Su Bok, chairman of the Songyo District, Pyongyang, Committee of the Kim Il Sung Socialist Youth League, said:

There is a limit to our patience.

Only merciless military retaliation is fit for those villains who dared to hurt the dignity of our supreme leadership, seeking to plunge the Korean nation into disaster of a nuclear war.

With our strong will to annihilate the U.S. imperialists and the south Korean puppet forces, we young people are dying for the start of KPA military action to subdue the southern part of Korea. -0-

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Pyongyang urges Seoul to apologize, threatens to fire long-range artillery

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 11:13, March 27, 2016

PYONGYANG, March 26 -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Saturday threatened to fire long-range artillery at Seoul unless South Korean President Park Geun-hye apologizes and punishes those who planned striking the DPRK leadership.

Pyongyang issued the warning in an ultimatum sent to the Park administration by the artillery force of the Korean People's Army(KPA), according to the official KCNA news agency.

The ultimatum urged Park to offer "an official apology" to all Korean people for "dare attempts to slander and do harm to the sun of Songun," which refers to the DPRK's top leader, Kim Jong Un.

It also asked Park and her administration to punish those who designed the operation for striking the DPRK leadership and "finish them without mercy."

The military threatened in the ultimatum that if the Park administration did not respond to the warning, the artillery force would "move over to merciless military action."

South Korea's presidential office Cheong Wa Dae and other major government buildings are within the firing range of the KPA's long-range artillery, it added.

Pyongyang has in recent days repeatedly threatened to launch strikes at Cheong Wa Dae and other government offices in Seoul with artillery and rockets as tensions continue to escalate on the Korean Peninsula.

On March 7, South Korea and the United States began joint annual war games "Key Resolve" and "Foal Eagle," which Pyongyang claimed were rehearsals for northward invasion.

The drills included a "beheading operation" that took the DPRK leadership as a hypothetical target.

In response, the DPRK has stepped up missile and rocket launches as well as artillery firing exercises.

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Italian police spokesman Lt. Colonel Domenico Grimaldi says that Bilal Erdogan was able to jump bail on money laundering charges because the Saudi embassy paid the mafia to help get him clear, assisting them with fraudulent diplomatic papers and a Saudi prince disguise.

Bilal Erdogan is the son of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the prime-minister of Turkey, a gollum-looking authoritarian kleptocrat who built himself a 1,000-room palace as a kind of capstone on a political career dominated by corruption, the detritus of which includes recorded phone calls in which the PM conspired to hide millions in ill-gotten gains from investigators.

"Mafia activities continue to plague our judicial system and the Polizia di Stato is blamed for this humiliating security lapse in Rome airport. We also found that a notorious mafia gang active in Calabria and Sicily was hired by members in the Saudi embassy and they managed to release Mr. Erdogan from Regina Coeli Prison," police spokesman Lt. Colonel Grimaldi told AFP. They moved Bilal Erdogan to Excelsior Hotel, added Lt. Colonel Grimaldi, and Erdogan was caught on cameras leaving the Hotel, donned traditional Arab dress and adroitly disguised as a Saudi diplomat; Bilal passed the security check holding a fake Saudi diplomatic passport and we believe, he couldn't have escaped without the connivance of a number of police officers in Leonardo da Vinci Airport.



Rome's Police spokesman: Saudi embassy helped Erdogan's son to escape the police custody; using a forged Saudi passport and disguised as an Arab diplomat [AWD News]

(via Naked Capitalism)
North Korea threatens nuke strike on US: Video

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 3:52AM

North Korea has threatened to launch a nuclear strike on Washington if the United States provokes the North, a video shows.

The North released a four-minute video titled "Last Chance" on Saturday which uses computer animation to show a ballistic missile hitting Washington.

The video shows that the intercontinental ballistic missile flies through the earth's atmosphere and slams into Washington near what appears to be the Lincoln Memorial, and then a nuclear explosion follows.

"If the American imperialists provoke us a bit, we will not hesitate to slap them with a pre-emptive nuclear strike," the video says in Korean.

"The United States must choose! It's up to you whether the nation called the United States exists on this planet or not."

Most of the video appears to chronicle what it calls "humiliating defeats" suffered by the United States at North Korea's hands over the past years, including two separate incidents in which the North captured an American ship called the Pueblo and shot down an American helicopter in 1968 and 1994 respectively.

It also depicts a barrage of artillery, rockets and missiles, which includes a submarine-launched ballistic missile.

The missile shown in the video, which is what North Korea recently claimed it had successfully tested, ends with the American flag in flames.

In 2013, the North released another video showing Lower Manhattan being bombed, and another one later showing President Obama and American troops in flames.

Tensions between the US and North Korea have escalated since the start of 2016 after the North's nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch on February 7.

Pyongyang says the rocket launch was aimed at placing an earth observation satellite into orbit, but the US and South Korea say the move was a cover for an intercontinental ballistic missile test.

On March 13, a US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier arrived in South Korea's largest port city to take part in joint war games, dubbed Key Resolve, following threats by North Korea to wipe out its enemies.

A day earlier, American and South Korean troops staged a big amphibious landing exercise on South Korea's east coast, storming simulated North Korean beach defenses.

Pyongyang condemned the assault drills, calling them "nuclear war moves" taken as preparations for an invasion.

The North's military said it was prepared to respond "with an ultra-precision blitzkrieg strike of the Korean style."

This year's Key Resolve drills mark the largest of their kind as the allies step up military cooperation in the face of North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.

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Boosting defense capabilities a strategic policy: Iran

Iran Press TV

Mon Mar 28, 2016 12:6AM

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says boosting defense capabilities is a "strategic policy" of the Islamic Republic while Tehran should be wary of not providing its enemies with any "excuse."

"We'll pursue any measure to boost our defense might and this is a strategic policy," Rouhani said in the first cabinet meeting of his administration in the Persian New Year in Tehran on Sunday.

"But at the same time we should remain vigilant so that Iran's enemies do not find any excuse" to abuse the country's capabilities, said the president.

Rouhani referred to the nuclear deal between Iran and the world powers, saying Zionists in the US, Europe, and the Middle East want to sabotage the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

President Rouhani described "hope in future and trust in the government" as an "asset" to the country that should be taken care of.

Iran's security in the "chaotic" region is an outcome a good relation between the government and the nation, Rouhani noted.

He was referring to the Takfiri militancy and terrorist bombings that have gripped several countries in the Middle East.

Rouhani's remarks followed successful test-firing of three ballistic missiles by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in early March, which was faced by new sanctions from the United States.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said last Saturday that Iran would respond to the sanctions "by further boosting our missile power."

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Iraq's Sadr begins sit-in inside Green Zone

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 4:49PM

Prominent Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has started a promised sit-in inside Baghdad's Green Zone district, vowing to continue the protest action until the government fulfills its pledges for carrying out reforms.

Sadr on Sunday joined his followers at the gates of the area, which is home to many government offices as well as the parliament and foreign embassies, before entering the district and starting the sit-in.

Local media had announced that Sadr arrived in Baghdad on Thursday. The Shia cleric is normally based in the holy city of Najaf, where he enjoys huge public support.

Sadr had vowed earlier that he would enter the Green Zone as a show of discontent with the government's slow pace of carrying out reforms and tackling corruption. In a statement issued on March 18, the cleric had called the area "a bastion of support for corruption," prompting his followers to erect tents for a sit-down at the gates of the zone.

Upon entry into the zone, Sadr urged his followers to remain peaceful. His office in Baghdad also issued a statement, ensuring that the protest action will remain peaceful. Protesters, however, chanted slogans at the gates of the zone, saying corrupt ministers in the government "share common thinking" with militants currently wreaking havoc across Iraq.

An official in Sadr's office said that the general sit-in at the gates of the Green Zone will be extended until "demands for reforms are heard by the government" of Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi. Kazim al-Issawi said that the patience of protesters would have its limits.

Sadr had given Abadi until Sunday to enact a plan announced last month for replacing some ministers with unaffiliated technocrats to tackle corruption.

The cleric is from an influential family that is known in Iraq for its steadfastness against former dictator Saddam Hussein. Sadr launched a strong campaign against occupying US troops following their 2003 invasion of Iraq.

Demonstrations have continued for several weeks in the Iraqi capital.

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Japan Refuses to Give Up Non-Nuclear Principles Amid N Korean Nuke Threat

Sputnik News

08:56 28.03.2016(updated 09:27 28.03.2016)

Japan will not give up its Three Non-Nuclear Principles in response to the nuclear threat coming from North Korea, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said Monday.

TOKYO (Sputnik)  On Sunday, US presidential hopeful Donald Trump said he would be open to Japan and South Korea building their own nuclear weapons, as North Korea continued missile tests.

"Three Non-Nuclear Principles are the basic and important policy of our government," Suga told at a press conference commenting on Trump's remarks.

In January, Pyongyang claimed it had successfully carried out a hydrogen bomb test. Earlier in March, North Korea launched five short-range missiles that landed in the Sea of Japan, which became Pyongyang's third missile power test, including launches of medium-range ballistic missiles.

Tokyo's three non-nuclear principles, namely non-possession, non-manufacturing and non-introduction of nuclear weapons into the country's territory, were adopted in the late 1960s to reflect general public sentiment and national policy.

 Sputnik

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Russia Set to Create Military Aftersales Service System in Latin America

Sputnik News

16:15 28.03.2016

Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport is currently working on the creation of helicopter service centers in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and Peru.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport is working on the establishment of the full-fledged system of aftersales service in Latin America, the head of Rosoboronexport's delegation to the weapons exhibition in Santiago said.

"Building up an effective system of aftersales service for Russian military equipment is one of the priorities of Rosoboronexport. It applies not only to helicopters, but to all the military and dual-purpose production. We are actively working in this direction and in the coming years expect to achieve results," Sergei Ladygin told RIA Novosti.

He added that at the moment Rosoboronexport was working on the creation of helicopter service centers in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and Peru.

Last month, Rosoboronexport Director General Anatoly Isaykin said Russia offered Peru the option to purchase a mobile service center to maintain the high operational readiness of its recently received Mi-171Sh military transport helicopters while the construction of a permanent service center in the country is underway.

Over 400 Russian helicopters are currently being operated in Latin America and the Caribbean. The most popular models are those of the Mi-8/17 series, amounting to 320 units.

Rosoboronexport will demonstrate advanced Russian military production at FIDAE 2016 trade exhibition to be held on March 29  April 3 in the Chilean capital Santiago.

 Sputnik

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Reaping Fruits of Victory: First Results of Russia's Air Campaign in Syria

Sputnik News

16:04 28.03.2016(updated 20:09 28.03.2016)

The war on terrorism in Syria is not over yet. However, after the bulk of Russian forces were withdrawn from Syria one can take a closer look at some aspects of how the operation unfolded and the weapons involved.

Key Ingredient to Combat Success

In order to be successful, any military operation needs full-fledged combat support. In Syria, Russia demonstrated capabilities that wowed the world. As one of the world's most powerful militaries, Moscow managed to deploy a task force to a remote battle zone covertly and rapidly. This was possible mostly thanks to the well-functioning logistics system, including by air and sea.

In a recent interview, Col. Gen. Alexander Dvornikov told Rossiyskaya Gazeta that over 640 sorties and more than 80 maritime voyages had been carried out since September 2015 to support the Russian operation in Syria.

In strategic terms, this can be considered one of the most important aspects of the operation. It demonstrated the changes the Russian Armed Forces went through since the late-2000s, after a military reform was launched.

One of its goals was to create a mechanism for the fast deployment of forces to remote areas. The mechanism was repeatedly tested and improved during numerous "snap combat readiness checks" which started in 2013. The Syrian campaign became the pinnacle of this long training process.

Striking With the Highest Accuracy

The wide-spread belief that modern military uses nothing but advanced high-precision weapons for surgical strikes against the enemy is far from being true.

For conducting airstrikes against terrorists in Syria, the Russian aviation mainly relied on conventional bombs, including the OFAB-250-270 fragmentation air bomb. Guided munitions like the Kh-25ML and the Kh-29L and guided bombs played a less significant role.

Russia also used the KAB-500S GLONASS-guided bomb in Syria. It is a very high-precision weapon. It is dropped from an altitude of several kilometers and hits the target with an accuracy of three meters. The bomb was used to destroy terrorists' ammo depots, command points and fortified areas.

However, this fact does not mean that Russia lags in developing and using high-precision munitions. The reason is the approach Russia has adopted in upgrading the capabilities of its air force.

The Russian approach differs from the one the US has adhered to. The Pentagon developed the JDAM, including an integrated inertial guidance system and a tail section with aerodynamic control surfaces. The JDAM kit converts so-called "dumb" bombs into smart munitions. As a result, the number of guided bombs used in US aerial operations has increased in the last 25 years.

Russia's approach was to modernize the target-acquiring and navigating systems of tactical bombers. The SVP-24 Gefest target-acquiring system was developed as a result. It makes conventional air bombs more precise because it automatically calculates the flight parameters of the aircraft as well as external conditions. As a result, Russian "dumb" bombs can now hit the target with much higher accuracy.

Game-Changers

The operation marked the first combat use of some of Russian weapons, including the Kh-101 and Kh-555 missiles and the Kalibr ship-based cruise missile.

The Russian forces in Syria have also been backed from the sea, by a naval tactical unit led by the Moskva missile-carrying cruiser and the Caspian Flotilla. On October 7 and then on November 20, warships of the flotilla fired Kalibr missiles from the Caspian Sea and successfully hit the targets from a distance of 2,500 km.

On December 8, Russia conducted its first submerged combat launch of a Kalibr long-range cruise missile. Missiles were launched by the Rostov-on-Don Diesel-electric submarine, successfully hitting all designated targets.

The combat use of those weapons did not change the course of the military campaign. However, they can be considered game-changers in terms of military practice and reputational benefits.

Recognition of the Fullback

The Russian campaign in Syria also marked the first full-fledged combat use of the Su-34 (NATO reporting name Fullback) jet fighters.

The Su-34 is Russia's most advanced interdiction aircraft. It was designed as a replacement for Russia's fleet of ageing Su-24 Fencer strike aircraft.

The Fullback is provisioned with a formidable air-to-air self-defense capability. It is armed with R-73 dogfighting missiles and R-77 long-range radar-guided air-to-air missiles. The Su-34 has a combat radius of nearly 700 miles on internal fuel but is also designed for aerial refueling.

Among those awarded for their participation in the operation there are several officers flying on Su-34 jets. According to the Sukhoi Design Bureau, two of its engineers working with the aircraft were also awarded.

This proves the fact that Russian political and military officials were impressed with the capabilities of the jet.

Early Results

Of course, now it is preliminary to make decisive conclusions from the Russian campaign in Syria which ended on March 14. The Russian Defense Ministry will gather and analyze information on the tactics and weapons involved in the campaign.

Nevertheless, the operation gave some implications for the Russian Armed Forces that cannot be ignored.

First, Russia has proved its capability to carry out a military operation of small scope, in a remote battle zone, using advanced aircraft and maintaining logistic support.

Second, the operation became an outstanding promotional campaign of Russian-made military hardware for potential buyers. For example, Algeria ordered a shipment of Su-32 jets (the export version of the Su-34) in the wake of the successes of the Russian aviation in Syria.

Third, and maybe the most important, the Russian involvement in Syria has gained significant political advantages. In the long-term, it could become a turning point in contemporary international relations.

 Sputnik

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UN praises Syrian government victory in Palmyra

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 2:31PM

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed the Syrian army's recapture of Palmyra from Daesh terrorists, expressing hope that the Damascus government will try to rebuild and protect the UNESCO-listed city.

Addressing a press conference in the Jordanian capital, Amman, Ban said "the extremist terrorists, they have been not only killing brutally people, they have been destroying human civilizations."

"We are encouraged and fortunate" that Syrian soldiers regained control of Palmyra, said the UN chief, stressing he was also encouraged that Syria's government "will try to not only preserve and protect, but try to restore" the site.

'Russia to stand by Syria'

In another development, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered felicitations to his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad on the liberation of the ancient city of Palmyra after weeks of army operations against Daesh terrorists.

"In a conversation with the Syrian president, Vladimir Putin congratulated his colleague on Syrian forces liberating the city of Palmyra from terrorists, noting the importance of preserving this unique historic city for world culture," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin added that his country's armed forces would continue to assist the Damascus officials in the battle against terrorism and help them "rid their land from extremist groups" despite the partial pullout of Moscow's military contingent from Syria.

During the conversation, the Russian leader also emphasized "the importance of preserving this unique historic city for world culture," Peskov added.

Assad, in turn, "praised the help given by the Russian space and air forces," stressing that "successes such as the liberation of Palmyra would be impossible without Russia's support," Peskov added.

In a separate phone call, Putin also exchanged views with UNESCO chief Irina Bokova about the fate of Palmyra, according to the Kremlin official.

Following four weeks of military operations against Daesh, Syrian forces, backed by popular defense groups and Russian air cover, wrested back control of Palmyra in the western province of Homs on Sunday.

The Russian Defense Ministry said its military aircraft had hit nearly 160 Daesh targets near Palmyra over the past day in support of the Syrian army forces advancing on the historic city.

Earlier in the day, Assad said the victory in Palmyra shows the success of the army's strategy in its battle against terrorists.

The Syrian army also vowed in a statement to step up their anti-Daesh offensives on various fronts "on top being Dayr al-Zawr and Raqqah," two provinces in Syria's east and north, respectively.

The London-based monitoring group also described Palmyra's liberation as one of Daesh's biggest defeats since it took control of swathes of land in Syria and neighboring Iraq some two years ago.

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Palmyra recapture shows success of army strategy: Assad

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 12:38PM

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has hailed the liberation of the ancient city of Palmyra from Daesh, saying the victory shows the success of the army's strategy in its battle against terrorists.

"The liberation of the historic city of Palmyra today is an important achievement and another indication of the success of the strategy pursued by the Syrian army and its allies in the war against terrorism," Assad said during a Sunday meeting with a delegation of French parliamentarians, scholars and researcher in Damascus.

The Syrian leader further pointed to the failure of the US-led coalition in its so-called fight against Daesh, saying Palmyra's liberation displayed the efficiency of the domestic military strategy on the battlefield against Takfiri militants.

"The effectiveness of this strategy is further highlighted especially as opposed to the US-led coalition involving more than sixty countries and its lack of seriousness in fighting terrorism and the very little it has achieved since its establishment one and a half years ago," Assad said.

He also lauded the visit by the French delegates to Damascus and said such visits enables parliamentary teams to witness the realities on the ground in Syria and work to correct the wrong policies adopted by certain governments, including Paris, vis-a-vis the crisis in the Arab country.

The French delegation, in turn, voiced solidarity with Syrians and stressed that it would keep up efforts to alleviate the sufferings of the violence-stricken nation.

Earlier in the day, Syrian forces, backed by popular defense groups and Russian air force, retook full control of Palymra after some four weeks of fierce fighting with Daesh terrorists for the city, located in the western province of Homs.

The ruins of Palmyra and the adjoining modern city had fallen to Daesh last May. Soon after seizing the area, the terrorists went on a rampage and destroyed ancient monuments there, including the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel and the iconic Arch of Triumph.

Palmyra was one of the most important cultural centers of the ancient world, according to UNESCO, which has described it as the crossroads of several civilization. Video footage below shows the ancient Syrian city before falling into the hands of Daesh.

After fully liberating Palmyra, the General Command of the Syrian Army and Armed Forces vowed in a statement to press ahead with counter-terror military operations and drive Daesh terrorists out of their major strongholds, particularly in the provinces of Deir al-Zawr and Raqqah, in Syria's east and north, respectively.

Palmyra's liberation dealt "a severe mortal blow" to Daesh Takfiris, said the General Command, emphasizing that this achievement proves "our brave army, aided by the friends, is the only effective force capable of fighting terrorism and eradicating it."

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said a total of 400 Daesh terrorists have been killed in Syria's weeks-long battle to retake Palmyra, also known as the Peal of Desert.

The London-based group also described Palymra's recapture as one of Daesh's biggest defeats since it took control of swathes of land in Syria and neighboring Iraq some two years ago.

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Syria army vows to liberate Raqqah, Dayr al-Zawr from Daesh

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 12:23PM

After liberating the ancient city of Palmyra, the Syrian army has vowed to press ahead with counter-terror military operations and drive Daesh terrorists out of their major strongholds, particularly Raqqah Province.

In a statement read out on state TV on Sunday, the General Command of the Syrian Army and Armed Forces hailed the victory against Daesh in Palmyra as the beginning of the terror group's collapse in the entire Arab state.

It added that Syrian armed forces, backed by popular defense groups and Russian air cover, managed to restore "security and stability" to the UNESCO-listed city following a series of "precise and effective" operations.

With Palmyra under control, Syrian soldiers are determined to step up their anti-Daesh offensives on various fronts "on top being Dayr al-Zawr and Raqqah," two provinces in Syria's east and north, respectively, the statement said.

The Syrian army also vowed "to tighten the noose on the terrorist group and cut supply routes ... ahead of their complete recapture."

Palmyra's liberation dealt "a severe mortal blow" to Daesh Takfiris, said the General Command, emphasizing that this achievement proves "our brave army, aided by the friends, is the only effective force capable of fighting terrorism and eradicating it."

Earlier in the day, Syrian forces retook full control of Palymra after some four weeks of fierce fighting with Daesh terrorists near the city, located in the western province of Homs.

The ruins of Palmyra and the adjoining modern city had fallen to Daesh last May. Soon after seizing the area, the terrorists went on a rampage and destroyed ancient monuments there, including the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel and the iconic Arch of Triumph.

The extremist militants also killed Khaled al-Asaad, who looked after ancient ruins of Palmyra for 40 years.

The terrorists were using the historic city as a road to the mostly Daesh-held province of Dayr al-Zawr in Syria's east.

Earlier in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry also said in a statement that Moscow's fighter jets supported the Syrian army in the liberation operation, hitting 150 Daesh targets near Palmyra over the past day.

The ministry further said more than 100 militants were killed, while four tanks and three artillery positions were destroyed in the airstrikes.

The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has said a total of 400 Daesh terrorists have been killed in Syria's weeks-long battle to retake Palmyra, also known as the Peal of Desert.

The London-based monitoring group also described Palmyra's liberation as one of Daesh's biggest defeats since it took control of swathes of land in Syria and neighboring Iraq some two years ago.

Meanwhile, Maamoun Abdulkarim, head of Syria's antiquities and museums department, has expressed readiness to assess the Roman-era monuments begin reconstruction "as soon as we are given the green light from the Syrian army."

"We will present our studies to UNESCO so that Palmyra can once again be a world heritage site," said Abdulkarim. "Palmyra is not just for Syrians, it is for the world."

He further said "work may simply end in 2016. We have huge capabilities and expertise in the general directorate of antiquities and museums. We have already executed tens of restoration works in Palmyra. We have the experience to accomplish this."

Abdulkarim also said many ancient landmarks were still standing and vowed to rebuild the damaged ancient sites in Palmyra, which is home to some of the most extensive ruins of the Roman Empire.

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CIA-armed militias shooting at Pentagon-armed ones in Syria

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 6:29AM

CIA-armed militants are now shooting at Pentagon-armed militias in Syria, showing a complete lack of control by the US over its war machine in the war-torn country.

The two groups of militants have begun to fight each other in areas between the besieged city of Aleppo and the Turkish border, US officials and militants' leaders have confirmed.

Their fighting has intensified during the past two months as they have repeatedly shot at each other while maneuvering through the plains on the northern outskirts of Aleppo.

In February, Pentagon-backed units, moving in from Kurdish-controlled areas to the east, forced Fursan al Haq, a CIA-armed militant, to leave the town of Marea, about 20 miles north of Aleppo.

"Any faction that attacks us, regardless from where it gets its support, we will fight it," said Maj. Fares Bayoush, a leader of Fursan al Haq.

Similar clashes were reported in the town of Azaz, a key transit point for militants and supplies between Aleppo and the Turkish border as well as the Aleppo neighborhood of Sheikh Maqsud.

The deteriorating situation shows the difficulty the US is experiencing in coordinating its various armed groups that are trying to topple the government of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, fight the Daesh (ISIL) and shoot at each other at the same time.

"It is an enormous challenge," said Rep. Adam Schiff of California, the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, who called such clashes "a fairly new phenomenon."

"It is part of the three-dimensional chess that is the Syrian battlefield," he said.

Also, a US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that "this is a complicated, multisided war where our options are severely limited."

"We know we need a partner on the ground. We can't defeat Daesh without that part of the equation, so we keep trying to forge those relationships."

At first, the CIA-armed militias and Pentagon-armed ones were mainly operating in separated areas of Syria with the former fighting in the west of the country and the latter operating in the northeastern parts.

However, with Russian airstrikes against Daesh terrorists, Kurdish-led groups could expand their control to the outskirts of Aleppo, causing them to have more frequent conflicts with the CIA-backed outfits.

"Fighting over territory in Aleppo demonstrates how difficult it is for the U.S. to manage these really localized and, in some cases, entrenched conflicts," said Nicholas Heras, an expert on the Syrian civil war at the Center for a New American Security, a think tank in Washington. "Preventing clashes is one of the constant topics in the joint operations room with Turkey."

Syria has been gripped by foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. More than 260,000 have reportedly lost their lives and millions displaced as a result of the violence.

The US-led coalition has been pounding purported Daesh positions inside Syria since September 2014, without any authorization from Damascus or the UN. However, they have done little to stop the Takfiri terrorists' advances in parts of Syria.

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Japan's recently expanded prisons are already at 70% occupancy, an incarceration epidemic blamed on hungry pensioners who account for 35% of the nation's shoplifting, with a high rate of re-offending.

Japan's state pension of 78,000 (USD6,900) is at least 25% below subsistence, and prison sentences for property crimes are harsh  a stolen sandwich can result in a 2-year custodial term at a cost to the government of 1.4M.

Japan, like many developed states, is in the midst of a demographic crunch: the richer a state is, the better its pension system and the lower its overall fertility. This means that each generation of retirees depends on a smaller generation of workers to support its pensions.

Japan's crisis is badly exacerbated by runaway xenophobia, which makes immigration reform a no-go area. Without a cohort of young workers from elsewhere in the region, there are just not enough people paying into the system to support the aged. This problem is in turn magnified by the need of young, productive workers to divert themselves from waged work to look after their elderly parents, which has the double effect of reducing their ability to support children (who will provide the labor to support their pensions) and reducing the present-day tax-base, increasing the pressure on yet more elderly people and thus more young workers.

Japan, like the UK and the US, is crippled by its misperception of migration by young workers as a burden on the state, rather than a benefit to it. As the demographic crunch of a too-small cohort of young workers working to sustain the medically prolonged lives of their parents and grandparents makes young workers even more desperate (a situation that is made much worse by the unethical housing bubble that converts shelter from a human right to an asset whose "value" must be increased at all costs), they blame the young workers from abroad who "compete" with them, failing to see that these workers are needed to sustain a system designed on the premise that working generations will outnumber the retired.

Populist politicians  Abe, Trump, Farage, etc  blame migrants (rather than the rich rentier investors) for the crisis, and win popular support, pushing mainstream parties to denounce the migration that's keeping their countries solvent.





Meanwhile, the elderly live in fuel poverty and food poverty, and the state ends up paying a huge premium to rehouse them in prisons or hospitals, and another, hidden premium when their children are taken away from productive work to a desperate struggle to save their parents from misery.

"The social situation in Japan has forced the elderly into the need to commit crime," he says. "The ratio of people who receive public assistance is highest since the end of the war. About 40 per cent of the elderly live alone. It's a vicious circle. They leave prison, they don't have money or family so they turn immediately to crime." The crime figures, he adds, expose the strained calculus of the government's welfare spending as the world's second-biggest economy ages. Prison, no matter how the spreadsheets are run, is a woefully inefficient way for the government to target welfare spending at those who most need it.



Japan's elderly turn to life of crime to ease cost of living

(via Naked Capitalism)

(Image: Prison Cells, Abashiri Prison Museum, David McKelvey, CC-BY)
Syrian army captures entire Palmyra from Daesh terrorists

Iran Press TV

Sun Mar 27, 2016 6:6AM

Syrian armed forces have successfully established full control over the ancient city of Palmyra in the west-central Homs Province, latest in a string of victories over the Daesh Takfiri terrorists.

"After heavy fighting during the night, the army is in full control of Palmyra -- both the ancient site and the residential neighborhoods," an unnamed military source said on Sunday.

"Army sappers are in the process of defusing dozens of bombs and mines planted inside the ancient site," the anonymous military source added.

The major gain came after Syrian army's advances in the western and northern parts of Palmyra during the past several days and intensive military operations in the south.

The historic city fell to Daesh last May. The Syrian army and allied forces kicked off an assault earlier this month to take Palmyra back with the help of airstrikes and artillery fire.

Daesh militants have reportedly pulled out of the city after the army recaptured it on Sunday and are said to have retreated to the cities of Sukhnah and Dayr al-Zawr in the east.

The liberation of Palmyra now causes eastern Syria to open up to the army and deals a heavy blow to the Daesh Takfiri terrorists who are in control of most of the two provinces of Dayr al-Zawr and Raqqah.

The fall of Palmyra raised global concern as the terrorists blew up its UNESCO-listed temples and looted relics that dated back thousands of years.

Daesh turned Palmyra's ancient amphitheater into a site for public executions, and its terrorists beheaded the city's 82-year-old former antiquities chief there.

In recent months, Syrian army, backed by the Russian air power, has been making major gains against Takfiri groups, recapturing several strategic areas from their grip, particularly in the strategic northern province of Aleppo.

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Assad Hails Recapture Of Palmyra From Islamic State

March 27, 2016

by RFE/RL

Syrian government forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, have recaptured the historic city of Palmyra from Islamic State (IS) militants, an advance that President Bashar al-Assad hailed as an "important achievement" demonstrating the success of his army's fight against terrorism.

The loss of Palmyra is a major setback for the extremist IS group, which declared a caliphate in 2014 across large swaths of Syria and Iraq.

It follows a nearly three-week push by Assad's forces to recapture the central city, which IS militants overran in May 2015.

"The liberation of the historic city of Palmyra today is an important achievement and another indication of the success of the strategy pursued by the Syrian Army and its allies in the war against terrorism," Assad told a delegation of French parliamentarians in Damascus.

He also took a swipe at the global coalition striking Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria and Iraq, saying the Syrian Army's victory "shows the coalition -- led by the United States and including more than 60 countries -- isn't serious about fighting terrorism."

Syrian television announced earlier in the day that the army and its militia allies took complete control of Palmyra and were clearing mines and bombs set up by the militants.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a British-based monitoring group, said that there was still gunfire in the eastern part of the city early in the morning on March 27, but that the majority of IS militants there had pulled out and retreated east.

Retaking the town is a major symbolic and strategic victory for Assad's government, which has made steady gains in recent months against IS and opposition rebel groups.

The road linking Palmyra to Raqqa, an IS stronghold, is now under army control, which means that IS fighters can only retreat eastward toward the Iraqi border.

The Syrian Army's general command said that Palmyra would become "a launchpad to expand military operations" against IS forces in Raqqa and Deir al-Zor, another stronghold of the extremist group.

It vowed to "tighten the noose on the terrorist group and cut supply routesahead of their complete recapture."

Despite Russia's announcement that it was pulling out most of its military forces from Syria two weeks ago, Russian jets and helicopters carried out dozens of strikes over the ancient city at the height of the fighting.

The Russian Defense ministry said on March 27 that its forces had made 40 flights over the area of Palmyra during the last 24 hours, striking 117 targets and killing more than 80 militants, Russian news agencies reported.

The ministry added that the cease-fire in Syria had been violated 10 times during the past 24 hours but that overall it was holding, news agencies reported.

Meawhile, the Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on his army's recapture of Palmyra.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was quoted as saying that Putin and Assad spoke by telephone after Damascus announced that it had driven IS militants from the city.

"In a conversation with the Syrian president, Vladimir Putin congratulated his colleague on Syrian forces liberating the city of Palmyra from terrorists, noting the importance of preserving this unique historic city for world culture," Russia's state-owned RIA Novosti news agency quoted Peskov as saying.

Elsewhere, Rami Abdulrahman, head of the British-based Observatory, said that 400 Islamic State fighters and 180 government troops and allied militiamen died in the fighting for Palmyra.

Abdulrahman described the battle as the single biggest defeat for the group since it declared an Islamic caliphate in the areas of Syria and Iraq that it controlled in 2014

IS fighters have been under pressure since Syrian and Iraqi military forces launched offensives to retake the key bastions in the group's self-proclaimed caliphate.

They were driven out of the Iraqi city of Ramadi only three months ago, a major victory for Iraq. They also lost the Iraqi city of Tikrit last year and the Syrian town of Al-Shadadi in February.

On March 24, the Iraqi Army announced that it would launch an offensive to retake Iraq's second-largest city, Mosul, which has been under IS control since June 2014.

Many of Palmyra's Roman-era relics, including the 2,000-year-old Temple of Bel and the iconic Arch of Triumph, have been blown up by IS, which claims they promoted "idolatry."

UNESCO has called the campaign of destruction a war crime punishable by the International Criminal Court.

Based on reporting by AFP, AP, dpa, and Reuters

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/syria- army-retakes-palmyra/27637790.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.

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Palmyra Liberation: Syrian Army Officer Reveals Details of Operation

Sputnik News

21:39 27.03.2016(updated 22:02 27.03.2016)

Earlier on Sunday the Syrian Army together with the Desert Falcons fully liberated the ancient city of Palmyra from Daesh militants. A Syrian field commander told RT the details of the operation.

"Preparations for the liberation of Palmyra were made for a little over than a month. The Syrian Army was re-grouping its soldiers. The army made communications with the Syrian Air Force and especially with the Russian Air Force. Tanks and other military vehicles were brought to Palmyra together with Syrian troops and their allies," the military said.

The Syrian army confirmed Sunday that it had liberated the historic city of Palmyra from Daesh terrorist group with support of national aviation and Russian Aerospace Forces.

According to the Syrian officer, the main task was to take control of Palmyra heights.

"Last night, we managed to take control of Palmyra's ancient fortress. Then we prepared to take over the city. Daesh terrorists blew up a bridge that leads to the fortress. That's why our infantry had to enter the city from the north side under the cover of artillery fire and tanks to eventually liberate these areas," the officer told RT.

During the Palmyra assault, Russian attack helicopters and reconnaissance assets played a major role.

"Russia's engagement was very important and played one of the key roles in liberating Palmyra. Russian aviation, particularly attack helicopters, destroyed terrorists' ambushes at the heights around Palmyra. Using Russian intelligence data, we located terrorists and could track them," General Samir Suleiman told Sputnik.

He underscored that the liberation of Palmyra is a serious blow to terrorists' logistical and supplying capabilities. According to Suleiman, Palmyra was a supplies hub for the terrorists.

Palmyra, located 210 kilometers away from Damascus, is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria. The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under Daesh control since May 2015. The terrorist group has since destroyed part of the historic sites, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

 Sputnik

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Russian Warplanes Destroy 8 Terrorist Command Centers in Palmyra

Sputnik News

16:00 27.03.2016(updated 16:57 27.03.2016)

Russian warplanes have destroyed 8 terrorist command centers and 6 ammunition depots in Palmyra amid the ancient city's complete liberation by the Syrian army.

Russian military jets have carried out 40 sorties in Palmyra, destroying 117 terrorist targets and eliminating over 80 militants over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"The Russian Aerospace Forces have conducted 40 sorties around Palmyra and hit 117 terrorists' targets. Eight [terrorist] command centers, 12 strongholds, over 80 terrorists, 2 tanks, 3 artillery systems, 8 vehicles and 6 ammunition depots have been destroyed [as result of Russian airstrikes]."

Earlier on Sunday, the Syrian Army and popular defense forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, had successfully ended the operation to liberate Palmyra from Daesh terrorists.

The Syrian army's offensive on the city of Palmyra to recapture it from Daesh terrorists began on Thursday. On Friday, the units of the Syrian army and patriotic militia retook the historic Palmyra Castle from Daesh terrorists.

Palmyra, located 210 kilometers away from Damascus, is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria. The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under Daesh control since May 2015. The jihadist group, which is outlawed in many countries, including Russia and the United States, has since destroyed part of the historic sites, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

According to a daily bulletin published by the ministry, the ceasefire regime in Syria has been violated 10 times over the past 24 hours.

"The cessation of hostilities in the Syrian Arab Republic is generally observed. During the day, 10 ceasefire violations (four in Aleppo, three in Latakia, two in Idlib and one in Hama) have been recorded."

The Russian reconciliation center reported that al-Nusra Front terrorists have intensified activities in the Aleppo province. Terrorists shelled Aleppo, killing 4 civilians and injuring another 19 people.

"In the northwest of Aleppo, al-Nusra Front terrorist group intensified hostilities. Militants of the international terrorist organization shelled Sheikh Maqsud in Aleppo from mortars eight times, killing four and wounding of varying severity 19 civilians."

Russian and US centers have discussed a number of issues related to maintenance of Syria's ceasefire during a new round of talks.

 Sputnik

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Encircled: Syrian Army Poised to Storm Key Christian Town Near Palmyra

Sputnik News

14:50 27.03.2016(updated 15:20 27.03.2016)

The Syrian army and allied popular defense forces have closed their ring around Qariatein, a town 30 kilometers away from Palmyra, RIA Novosti reported citing a source on the ground.

"Qariatein is completely encircled. The Army and popular defense units are ready to storm in. Daesh terrorists are still holding their ground," the source told RIA Novosti.

He said that peaceful residents had all fled the town along with most of the militants, with the rest covering their retreat.

Mostly populated by Christians, Qariatein was seized by Daesh terrorists more than a year ago to become their main stronghold in the south of the Homs province.

According to government sources the terrorists used the town as a supply base for their forces battling the Syrian army advance on Palmyra.

Earlier on Sunday, the Syrian Army and popular defense forces, backed by Russian airstrikes, had successfully ended the operation to liberate Palmyra from Daesh terrorists.

"After a series of large-scale operations of our units in the direction of the eastern part of the province of Homs, with the support of the Syrian and Russian aircraft we have successfully completed the mission and restored security and stability in the city of Palmyra, as well as full control over the surrounding heights," according to the army's statement cited by SANA news agency.

Army bomb disposal units are demining the city streets and houses.

The Syrian army's offensive on the city of Palmyra to recapture it from Daesh terrorists began on Thursday. On Friday, the units of the Syrian army and patriotic militia retook the historic Palmyra Castle from Daesh terrorists.

Palmyra, located 210 kilometers away from Damascus, is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria. The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under Daesh control since May 2015. The jihadist group, which is outlawed in many countries, including Russia and the United States, has since destroyed part of the historic sites, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

 Sputnik

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Triumph! Syrian Army Completely Liberates Palmyra From Daesh

Sputnik News

08:58 27.03.2016(updated 16:25 27.03.2016)

The Syrian Army and popular defense forces, supported by Russian warplanes, have successfully ended the operation to liberate Palmyra from Daesh terrorists, the SANA news agency reported on Sunday.

"After heavy fighting during the night, the army is in full control of Palmyra  both the ancient site and the residential neighbourhoods," a military source told AFP.

The Army and People's Defense Forces are chasing the rest of Daesh militants who left Palmyra retreating to Raqqa, Deir Ez-Zor and Sukhnah. According to a military source cited by Al-Masdar News, the terrorists lost hundreds of fighters and weapons during the battle for Palmyra.

It was reported earlier that the Syrian Army had advanced into Palmyra with the support from the Russian Aerospace Forces.

"Army sappers are in the process of defusing dozens of bombs and mines planted inside the ancient site," the source added.

The Syrian Army's offensive on the city of Palmyra to recapture it from Daesh began on Thursday.

Palmyra, located 210 kilometers away from Damascus, is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria.

The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins had been under Daesh control since May 2015. The jihadist group, which is outlawed in many countries, including Russia and the United States, has since destroyed part of the historic sites, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

The terrorist group used the historic city's ancient amphitheatre for public executions, including the beheading of Palmyra's 82-year-old antiquities chief.

 Sputnik

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Syrian Forces Recapture Palmyra From Islamic State

by VOA News March 27, 2016

Syrian government forces backed by Russian airstrikes have retaken the ancient city of Palmyra from Islamic State, according to activists and state media, dealing a crucial symbolic and strategic defeat to the militants.

"This is an important achievement, and fresh proof of the efficiency of the Syrian army and its allies in fighting terrorism," Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said during a meeting with a French parliament delegation in Damascus.

The Syrian armed forces said Sunday the takeover of Palmyra represents a "fatal" blow to the militants, who seized the city 10 months ago and destroyed many of the famed monuments that had stood for nearly 2,000 years.

The fighting in Palmyra had intensified in recent days as Syrian forces pushed to close their three-week offensive.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the Syrian conflict, said the remaining Islamic State fighters retreated to the east toward Deir Ezzor. The militants control a solid string of territory extending north from Deir Ezzor through their de facto capital in Raqqa to the Turkish border, and also to the south into Iraq.

By seizing Palmyra, the Syrian government opened up the 100 kilometers of desert between there and Deir Ezzor.

The Syrian army said it will now use Palmyra as a "central base to broaden operations" against Islamic State in several areas, including Deir Ezzor and Raqqa.

Syrian troops on Sunday continued to dismantle booby traps and other explosives left by the IS fighters, according to activists and state media.

The Observatory said 400 Islamic State militants and 180 government troops and allied fighters died in the battle for Palmyra, adding that clashes continued Sunday in some parts of the city.

Palmyra, coined as the "bride of the desert," is a UNESCO world heritage site that used to attract tens of thousands of tourists every year.

Islamic State took the city from government forces in a matter of days in May 2015 and later demolished several Roman-era monuments as part of their pattern of destroying what they consider idolatrous worship.

The takeover of Palmyra is the latest in a series of setbacks for Islamic State. Iraq's army three months ago drove the extremist group out of the city Ramadi in neighboring Iraq. The Iraqi army also announced this week the start of a major offensive to retake the city of Mosul.

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Russian Deputy FM Expresses Optimism Over Syrian Peace Talks

Sputnik News

04:12 28.03.2016

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said that the Syrian reconciliation talks in Geneva have made some progress and must be sustained.

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  The Syrian reconciliation talks in Geneva have made some progress and must be sustained, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, local media reported Monday.

"We are cautiously optimistic. The talks must be given a sustainable nature. It is excellent that the UN Special Envoy for Syria Staffan De Mistura announced the April 11 start of the text round of talks at the end of this round. There are ideas and there is groundwork laid down on paper," Ryabkov said in an interview with the Izvestia newspaper.

The latest round of talks between the Syrian government and opposition forces opened on March 14 in Geneva and ended on Thursday. The round saw all delegations submit their settlement proposals to De Mistura, who then produced a final paper with points of convergence between the parties. It was submitted for delegations' approval ahead of the new round of talks expected to start around April 10.

The points included provisions for Syria becoming a unified, sovereign, democratic and non-sectarian state based on political pluralism, as well as for cooperating with other states in preventing funds and weaponry supplies to terrorists.

The presence of Kurds is important for the talks, Ryabkov stressed, adding that the Syrian opposition's Riyadh-formed High Negotiations Committee (HNC) should adopt a more realistic stance and abandon attempts at setting pre-conditions.

Three opposition delegations are taking part in the negotiations: the High Negotiations Committee (HNC), which was formed in Saudi Arabia in December, the delegation formed following talks in Moscow and Cairo and the group formed after opposition talks at Hmeimim air base in Syria.

 Sputnik

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Syria's Palmyra Retaken, Russian Airstrikes Avoided Monuments - Russian MoD

Sputnik News

18:42 28.03.2016(updated 19:58 28.03.2016)

Syrian government forces and patriotic militias have retaken from terrorists most of the ancient city of Palmyra with support of Russian airstrikes which avoided targeting historical monuments, the commander of the Russian center for Syrian reconciliation said Monday.

HMEYMIM (Sputnik)  The Syrian army confirmed Sunday that it had liberated the historic city of Palmyra from Daesh terrorist group with support of national aviation and Russian Aerospace Forces.

"The Syrian government forces supported by people's militia and Russian airstrikes have liberated the ancient city of Palmyra," Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko told reporters, adding that some clashes with remaining terrorists were taking place in the southern outskirts of the city.

"Russian airstrikes have not targeted the areas of Palmyra where ancient monuments are located. Special forces personnel carried out target-designation to avoid the destruction of Palmyra monuments and civilian-populated areas," Kuralenko stressed.

Palmyra, located 210 kilometers away from Damascus, is considered key for advancing to the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa in eastern Syria. The town of Palmyra and its historic ruins have been under Daesh control since May 2015.

The terrorist group has since destroyed part of the historic sites, which are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

A unit of Russian sappers is on the way to Syria to take part in the demining of Palmyra, which was recently retaken from the Islamic State by Russia-backed Syrian forces, head of the Russian reconciliation center in Syria Sergei Kuralenko said Monday.

"A group of leading Russian experts will arrive at the Hmeymim airbase and begin work shortly," Kuralenko told reporters.

"Russian experts will arrive in the Syrian Arab Republic with all necessary equipment, including demining robots. Moreover, mine detection dogs from the International Mine Action Center will take part in the demining of Palmyra," he added.

According to Kuralenko, a significant part of Palmyra's historical monuments has been destroyed, while the rest has been mined.

The Russian center for Syrian reconciliation at the Hmeymim airbase registered nine violations of the ceasefire regime in three Syrian provinces in the last 24 hours, the commander of the center said Monday.

"A total of nine violations of the ceasefire regime have been registered in the past 24 hours, including four each in the Aleppo and Idlib provinces, and one  in the Latakia province," Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko told reporters.

Local residents have reported that over 50 militants and three trucks with ammunition have arrived in Syria's Aleppo province from Turkey, Russia's Defense Ministry said Monday.

"According to incoming information from the residents of Aleppo, over 50 militants and three trucks with ammunition have arrived in Anadan to reinforce al-Nusra Front units," the ministry said in a statement.

 Sputnik

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Ma-Tsai meeting to focus on power transfer, diplomatic issues

People's Daily Online

2016/03/27 14:47:57

Taipei, March 27 (CNA) President Ma Ying-jeou () and President-elect Tsai Ing-wen () will discuss the transfer of power and cross-Taiwan Strait and diplomatic issues when they meet this coming week, according to officials handling the transition.

Presidential Office Secretary-General Tseng Yung-chuan () and Joseph Wu (), secretary-general of Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party, may meet on Monday or Tuesday to finalize the date and venue of the meeting, according to a Presidential Office source.

The meeting is likely to take place at the Presidential Office or the Taipei Guest House (), but no final decision has been made, according to the source.

The president has said he is looking forward to the meeting, which will give him the chance to discuss the transfer of power and public policies with Tsai and ensure a smooth transition to the next administration, which takes office on May 20, the source said.

According to the Presidential Office, the outgoing president hopes to meet Tsai at the Presidential Office to exchange views on cross-strait and diplomatic issues, particularly after China resumed ties with former Taiwan ally Gambia on March 17.

China's move to establish ties was seen as a signal from Beijing that it was ending an unofficial diplomatic truce between China and Taiwan following Tsai's election victory in January.

According to the DPP, Tsai is expected to talk with Ma about the next phase in the transition of power.

The transition teams from the DPP and the Presidential Office have completed the transfer of information about various government agencies' operations to the DPP transition team, according to team members.

The information included summaries of the Executive Yuan and its ministries and agencies that covered their administrative operations, organizational structure, personnel quotas, budgets, progress on various projects, and major policy blueprints.

The next phase will involve the transfer of presidential power in the national defense and diplomatic realms, according to the team members.

(By Hsieh Chia-chen and Evelyn Kao)

Enditem/ls

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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.

Have an interest in what youre writing about

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If theres one thing bound to inject interest into your writing, its being fascinated by what youre writing about. Passion for a subject matter comes across naturally in your essay, typically making it more lively and fascinating and infusing an infectious enthusiasm into your words  within the same way that its easy to talk knowledgeably to someone about something you discover fascinating.

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consider your own opinion

Take the time to figure out what its that you think instead of regurgitating the opinions of others.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Proofread

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Virginia State Police released more information Monday morning on the small plane crash Sunday afternoon in Cascade.

The plane was flying from Charleston, South Carolina, to Baltimore, Maryland, when the pilot began experiencing problems with the aircraft losing power, according to a news release from the Virginia State Police.

The pilot declared an emergency and immediately began seeking a place to land, said Corinne N. Geller, public relations director with the Virginia State Police. As the 1970 Piper PA-23-250 Apache made its descent, the wing struck the trees and the plane overturned onto its roof.

Virginia State Police received the call of the crash at 4:38 p.m. Sunday.

The pilot, Stephen C. Lloyd of Lexington, South Carolina, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The three passengers on board were not injured.

ORIGINAL STORY:

A small red and white plane crashed just off Martinsville Highway on Long Circle in Cascade shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday, drawing Virginia State Police and several Pittsylvania County volunteer fire departments to the scene.

Arlethia Campbell said she and her family returned home to 1009 Long Circle to find the small plane, upside down in the street in front of her house. Trees in the yard had been broken, a section of fence was twisted and branches and parts of the plane were strewn across the yard and her driveway. Her mailbox was gone.

A neighbor, Junior Scales, said he saw four people get out of the plane, two adult males and two children. One of the adult males was taken away in an ambulance, Scales said.

The pilot was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries, according to Corinne Geller with the Virginia State Police. The three passengers onboard were not injured.

Virginia State Police Sgt. J. Doss said it he could not comment on the crash until the investigation was completed, but that he admired how the pilot tried to land the plane.

You can see what he was trying to do, Doss said, pointing to a field across the street where the pilot was trying to land. He did a remarkable job not to hit the house.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have both been notified, Geller said.

The investigation remains ongoing at this time.
VANCOUVER, Mar 28, 2016 - Lithium Americas Corp. ("Lithium Americas", or "LAC") (TSX:WLC) (OTCQX: WLCDF) (formerly Western Lithium USA Corp. ) is pleased to announce a definitive agreement with Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. ("SQM") (NYSE:SQM) (SSE:SQM.B) (SSE:SQM.A) to enter into a 50/50 joint venture (the "Joint Venture") on the Cauchari-Olaroz lithium project in Jujuy, Argentina (the "Joint Venture Transaction").The Joint Venture will go into effect following a capital contribution of US$25 million by SQM in exchange for a 50% ownership stake in Minera Exar S.A. ("Minera Exar"), a wholly owned subsidiary of LAC. SQM's contribution includes US$15 million to repay intercompany loans between Minera Exar and LAC; the remaining US$10 million will be allocated to project development. SQM and LAC intend to immediately advance a work and engineering plan, which contemplates completion of an updated definitive feasibility study based on an existing study for Cauchari that was completed by Minera Exar in 2012. The updated study will evaluate economic feasibility for a project with a nameplate production capacity of approximately 40,000 metric tons per year of lithium carbonate equivalent. Depending on the results of the study, the project may be executed in stages.Tom Hodgson, Chief Executive Officer of LAC, commented, "SQM is the world leader in lithium production with decades of development and operating experience and a strong team of technical and commercial talent. It also has a track record of success as a partner in many global joint ventures. One of the principal objectives of the Joint Venture is to leverage the technical experience of SQM to materially de-risk the development of Cauchari-Olaroz and to successfully advance the project to bring new supply to the market on a timely basis. Lithium plays an important strategic role in the energy revolution and it is critical that our industry respond by delivering more supply to meet increasing demand."Patricio de Solminihac, Chief Executive Officer of SQM, commented, "SQM is committed to the lithium business, both in Chile and abroad. The Salar de Cauchari is a great complement to our existing lithium operations in Chile, and it is located just a few hundred kilometers from the Salar de Atacama. We expect to have similar production processes at both sites, and as a result we should benefit from operating synergies."

Mr. de Solminihac continued, "We are confident that this joint venture will generate value for our shareholders. We believe that SQM's years of experience in the lithium business, and our vast distribution network, combined with LAC's knowledge of the Salar de Cauchari and its stakeholders, will prove to be key advantages that will contribute to the success of this project."



Recognizing that over the past seven years well over US$1 billion has been invested globally in lithium development projects which has resulted to date in minimal increase in lithium supply, Lithium Americas has been evaluating options to ensure Cauchari-Olaroz is brought into production in a timely manner with the lowest possible development risk. Lithium Americas has considered proposals from potential partners from various parts of the world, and from leading companies representing different parts of the lithium battery supply chain. Lithium Americas has evaluated traditional and new processing technologies, and has also examined the possibility of developing Cauchari-Olaroz on a stand-alone or independent basis.



John Kanellitsas, Vice Chairman of Lithium Americas, commented, "Lithium Americas' board has determined that SQM represents the premier partner in the world for our project. Their understanding of brine chemistries, pond and chemical plant construction, knowledge of all end-user product specifications and the collaborative approach with our team were important criteria in our selection process. We believe that SQM is the world's largest and lowest cost producer of lithium from brines and our board has determined that a joint venture with SQM in which we pursue a production path utilizing a proven, low-cost brine evaporation process represents the optimal course to maximize long term value for Lithium Americas' shareholders."



Cauchari-Olaroz is believed to be the world's 3rd largest lithium brine resource and is fully permitted for immediate construction and development. The project benefits from excellent infrastructure including a nearby natural gas pipeline, a paved international highway with direct access to Salar de Atacama and a deep sea port, fresh water on site, and strong support from local communities and the government of Jujuy province. Since its inception in 2009, Lithium Americas has invested over CDN$80 million in a resource exploration and project development program which includes resource definition, advanced modeling, approximately 10,000 meters of drilling, testing and pumping wells and 43-101 technical studies, including a definitive Feasibility Study ("dFS") completed in 2012. The 2012 dFS was based on a production capacity of 20,000 TPA lithium carbonate and resulted in a post-tax NPV of US$464M with average annual net cash flows of US$117M, and was based on forecasted LCE average prices of approximately US$5,900, well below current world prices. The Joint Venture is targeting a production capacity of approximately 40,000 TPA lithium equivalent in its upcoming development plan investigations.



Franco Mignacco, President of Minera Exar, commented, "We are very pleased to welcome our neighbor SQM as our partner to advance the project in Jujuy Province of Argentina, which is fully permitted and ready for construction. As stewards of one of the world's great lithium brine resources at the Cauchari salar, we are delighted to enter into this commercial partnership with SQM, who will be investing both its capital and its talent. The Joint Venture also demonstrates success for all stakeholders and local communities from the policies of the new Argentine government in its desire to attract foreign investment."



Information of a scientific and technical nature in this news release in respect of the Cauchari-Olaroz Lithium Project has been approved by Roger Kelley (Chem. Eng.), a qualified person for purposes of National Instrument 43-101. For further information about the dFS, please refer to the Technical Report dated July 11, 2012, entitled "Feasibility Study, Reserve Estimation and Lithium Carbonate and Potash Production on the Cauchari-Olaroz Salars, Jujuy Province, Argentina" filed on LAC's SEDAR profile on December 23, 2015.





About Lithium Americas



Lithium Americas is the parent company of Minera Exar S.A., which is developing the Cauchari-Olaroz Lithium Project, located in Jujuy, Argentina, in a joint venture with SQM. Lithium Americas also is the parent to Lithium Nevada Corp., which owns one of the largest lithium resources in North America, and Hectatone Inc., which produces specialty drilling additives and other organoclay products.





Forward-looking statements



Statements in this release that are forward-looking information are subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning the specific factors disclosed here and elsewhere in the company's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. When used in this document, the words such as "expect," "believe," "planned", "scheduled," "targeting" and similar expressions is forward-looking information. Information provided in this document is necessarily summarized and may not contain all available material information.



Statements in this release that constitute forward-looking statements or information include, but are not limited to: (i) timing of completion of a new feasibility study and expected production outcomes from that study; and (ii) the size and production cost applicable to SQM's lithium brine operations.



All such forward-looking information and statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by Western Lithium management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. These statements, however, are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information or statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from these forward-looking statements include those described under the heading "Risks Factors" in the Western Lithium's most recently filed MD&A. The company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or revise the forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements.







Contact



Lithium Americas Corp.

Investor Relations

778-656-5820

ir@lithiumamericas.com

www.lithiumamericas.com


A pair of chicken liver eclairs with soft egg yolk. Photo: Bradley Kanaris

Address 690 Ann St Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 View map Book online Features Accepts bookings, Bar, Business lunch, Gluten-free options, Late night, Licensed, Outdoor seating, Private dining Prices Moderate (mains $20-$40) Chef Ben Williamson, Steve Harry Payments eftpos, AMEX, Visa, Mastercard Phone 07 3252 2403

Remember Ryan Squires' Buffalo Club? Or Simon's Hill's interpretation of a contemporary Spanish bodega, Ortiga? Sadly they proved to be before their time.

As recently as five years ago, the drinkers and clubbers frequenting the Valley wanted nothing more than food that they could pay for with a fistful of change in the early hours.

But times and the urban landscape are a-changing and a little patch of Fortitude Valley has been gentrified, with bars such as Lost Boys, Treehouse and Heya, Kiosk cafe and laneway favourite Longtime replacing the drinking dens and restaurants of old.

The industrial interior features pops of cobalt blue. Photo: Robert Shakespeare

The Bowery Bar has stood sentinel here for 13 years, class among the chaos, bringing Brisbane's bar scene and our talented bartenders to national attention.

Now new neighbour The Apo, has, (no pun intended), lifted the bar even higher.

This old apothecary hall has been given a stylish makeover, but the exposed brick and grey concrete remind us that this is still the Valley, where even a genteel veneer of grittiness is expected.

Suckling pig, yoghurt foam, parsnip and dried apple. Photo: Robert Shakespeare

The hard edges of the industrial decor are softened by a pop of cobalt blue cushions and a neat row of similarly hued bar stools, while sunny tunes are on the playlist. Along the back wall is an open kitchen; out the back a handful of al fresco tables look onto Bakery Lane.

"Go famished or go often" should probably be the Apo diner's mantra, because you'll want to graze through the extensive menu. Chef Braden White (ex Hatch and Co, Newstead) most recently headed the kitchen at Ricky's at Noosa. He's come back into the fold, rejoining Hatch's owners, the Moubarak family, in this new venture  and seems to have found his groove.

The menu starts small and moves onto large plates designed for two. It's presented as food as art, but with nothing extraneous.

Grilled octopus, chickpea puree, pork jowl and elderflower. Photo: Robert Shakespeare

A duo of Moonlight Flat oysters share their shells with daubs of vivid watercress emulsion and salty little explosions of crunchy ice plant.

Suckling pig is cooked sous vide with brown butter; and has its skin heat-blasted to order. It's served with a parsnip puree, aerated Greek yoghurt and a golden parsnip crisp imitating the pork's own crisp crackling.

Confit Fremantle octopus tentacles are seared on binchotan charcoal and set atop chickpea puree, then topped with almost translucent slices of pork jowl and a garnish of foraged elderflowers.

Liquid nitrogen is used in desserts to Harry Potter effect. Photo: Bradley Kanaris

A small bowl of pure chicken stock is delivered to the table to be mixed with a confit egg yolk as a sauce for a clever chicken liver pate eclair seasoned with a little charcoal salt.

And there's so much more. Lobster brioche, sweet and creamy and Cloudy Bay surf clams in the shell, diced, folded through creme fraiche with house-made bottarga, French golden shallots and beach herbs. A whole baby snapper, so delicate and clean tasting, is lightly grilled with a spiced butter and garnished with foraged purslane.

The menu will change every few weeks but I predict the suckling pig and chicken liver eclair will become mainstays by popular demand.

Vivid: Oysters, watercress emulsion and ice plant. Photo: Robert Shakespeare

As for desserts, of course there's something made with nitrogen, because honestly, if we had the opportunity, wouldn't we all want to play around with cool science equipment? Alchemy is used to bring back a passionfruit curd that has been allowed to split, coaxing it to compliance with butter and whipping it mercilessly in a robot coupe until it's absolutely silky smooth.

Condensed milk and cream aerated and frozen with nitrogen form milky shards that are mixed with sweeter pieces of dried meringue, the whole thing garnished with brilliant yellow petals. With smoke rising from it as it's delivered, and out your nostrils as you swallow, it's a Hogwarts version of an Eton mess.

Upstairs, the bar is overseen by Pez Collier, who's been collecting awards for more than a decade.

Naturally there's a cracking cocktail list, but don't get too attached; drinks change every second week, although the house cocktail, an Apothecary Bloody Mary (vodka, porcini and wild mushroom, herb, spice and tomato) is a stayer.

There's also a creative wine list with a focus on interesting varietals  a Sicilian albanello-zibibbo, a Spanish albarino, a French gamay and an Australian malbec  all generously available by the glass, half-bottle or bottle.

http://www.theapo.com.au
Dr Lee Hickey, from the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation at the University of Queensland, inspects the wheat crops in one of the speed breeding facilities. Photo: Michelle Smith

One of the longest running, loudest and bitterest debates about food in modern times centres on the relative virtues of genetically modified and organic crops. Advocates of each decry the other, while simultaneously boosting their choice as the only sensible solution for meeting the world's future food needs.

A report published earlier this month, however, might be the catalyst to end the division and, just perhaps, bring the two camps together to focus on a common goal.

The study, conducted by US plant geneticists Johannes Kromdijk and Stephen Long of the University of Illinois, strongly suggests that all types of crop breeding  including genetic engineering and organic  need to be pressed urgently into service if we are to escape famine caused by rising population and climate change.

Home-grown organic strawberries.

Published in the Royal Society's journal Proceedings B, the authors estimate that the world has perhaps until the mid-2040s to dramatically improve cereal crop yields in order to offset severe shortages.

"With the short time-scale at which food demand is expected to outpace supplies, all available technologies to improve crop varieties, from classical crop breeding to crop genetic engineering, should be employed," they wrote. They called for "vastly increased" private and public investment in the process.

The main game, the researchers suggest, lies in employing every available horticultural strategy to breed better cereal crops. The goal is not to plant more wheat, for instance, but to make the wheat that is planted better at changing sunlight into edible grain.

A healthy kale crop. Photo: Simone De Peak

It is a quest already under way in Australia, through the world-leading research of plant geneticist Dr Lee Hickey and his team at the University of Queensland.

"Historically we've seen dramatic improvements in wheat yield since the 1940s, but the rate of genetic progress has slowed, and this has got the world quite worried because of the booming population, and meeting the demand by 2050," he said.

"We haven't yet seen any dramatic increase in improving the efficiency with which sunlight is converted to biomass in plants. This could be done through genetic engineering processes and could be a key component of us meeting the future demand."

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While certainly open to GM as a way of increasing crop yields, Hickey primarily uses conventional cross-breeding methods, helped by sophisticated genome tinkering and high-intensity laboratory techniques.

He and his team are developing strains, mainly wheat and barley, that are ever more heat, drought and disease-resistant.

One of the most effective research techniques they use is called speed-breeding  a lab-based method of producing up to six wheat crops a year, compared with the single one farmers are able to grow in fields. The rapid growth cycles permit equally rapid research, using both conventional techniques and DNA modification.

Harvesting fresh near organic vegetables and fruit from the vegetable garden. Photo: Jennifer Soo

"We're using DNA markers to inform our decisions about which plants carry desirable genes. That's pretty close to genetic engineering. Essentially we need to clone the genes before we can create DNA markers that are perfectly linked to the trait we're after," Hickey said.

It's an approach that is unlikely to please Australia's organic food advocates, who stress the need for crops to be "natural" and grown without expensive inputs such as factory-made fertilisers and pesticides. From that perspective, organic farming has a strong role to play in meeting future global food needs, especially in energy-challenged developing economies.

The call by Kromdijk and Long for all hands on deck, however, might go some way towards breaking down the differences between the organic and GM camps, a division that many observers regard as unjustified  on both rational and biological grounds.

A basket of fresh organic purple and white kohlrabi on display at a local farmer's market. Photo: Shelley L. Dennis

In a very real sense, they point out, every fruit, vegetable and cereal grown today is genetically modified, the result of millennia of cross-breeding aimed at developing desirable qualities. Kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower, for instance, have never existed in the wild, and are all purposely developed variants of a species of weedy cabbage.

But there is also another form of genetic modification that has been used for decades, and that has been largely overlooked by organic advocates. This is strange, because it has some genuinely scary aspects to it. It's called mutagenesis, and involves blasting plants with radiation.

Today, at farmers' markets and in grocery stores around the country, people are happily filling hessian shopping bags with organic ruby red grapefruit and organic Nijisseiki pears. And soon, many organic farmers are preparing to plant a popular Australian oat variety known as Echidna.

The pears, the citrus and the cereals are all excellent, nutritious and lovely, but their existence raises a curious question. Is it possible for a food crop to be simultaneously organic and genetically modified?

Evidently so. All three plants were created, several decades ago, by radiation-induced mutagenesis. Their radioactive provenance is recorded on a global permanent record called the Mutant Variety Database (MVD), operated jointly by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The MVD currently lists 3233 edible or ornamental mutagenic plant varieties. The most recent addition was a type of cherry developed in Turkey in 2014, but, in general, these days mutagenesis is rather less popular as a method of genetic modification than it used to be. And for good reason.

"There are two main ways that plant breeders can use this tool to create variation," explained Hickey. "One is through gamma radiation and the other is through a chemical called ethyl methanesulfonate or EMS. Basically both of these things induce a higher rate of mutation in the genome. And both, when we are exposed to them, cause us to get cancer."

The technique is still in use, particularly in rice development, but its decline in popularity among plant geneticists is only partly because of the health risks to lab workers associated with improper use. Mostly it's because it's just not that efficient.

Plants are blasted with radiation as a means of accelerating the genome's natural mutation rate. Scientists then have to trawl through the resulting changes to DNA in individual plant sex cells  or check which plants grow better from irradiated seeds  and then single them out for further breeding.

"Basically, you have no control whatsoever, unlike a technology like genetic engineering, where you are specifically targeting a known gene," said Hickey.

While DNA changes in fruit, vegetables and cereals resulting from gene-editing have come under ferocious and sustained attack by organisations that represent organic farmers, those arising from mutagenesis have largely avoided scrutiny.

"The organic industry has no formal position on mutant varieties," said Jan Denham, chairwoman of the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA). She said she is seeking input from the organic industry to formulate a policy on the matter.

A spokesperson for Australian Certified Organic (ACO)  an organisation that labels over 16,000 products as organic  said guidelines ruled out the use of seeds or seedlings that were "irradiated". However, at least two Australian ruby red grapefruit growers operate under ACO approval, which suggests that ancestral exposure to gamma rays is not a barrier to organic authenticity.

Thus, if genetic modification by breeding is acceptable, and food crops created by gamma radiation cause no uproar, what is so special about varieties made by gene editing?

"Most of the time we're talking about fixing or inserting a gene into a species that currently exists," said Hickey.

"The problem is that to do it by traditional means takes a long time. It takes up to 20 years to develop a new variety  by the time we cross it with another variety and identify an elite version that can be commercialised. It's basically just speeding up this process."

It's an approach greatly favoured by the Grains Research and Development Corporation, which funds Hickey's research, but it also raises what might turn out to be a critical question.

Can a crop variety engineered in five years, as opposed to a very similar variety cross-bred in 20, ever be considered suitable for organic cultivation? Millions of lives might depend on the answer.
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Restaurateur not rattled by crash

By Rashda Khan, Rashda.Khan@gosanangelo.com

People react in different ways to unexpected events. Some manage to stay calm, practical and, even, gracious.

When Richard Ruiz  one of the owners of Los Ruiz B.B.Q. in Eola  arrived to find a car had smashed into the front of the family owned restaurant and bar and the place crawling with law enforcement personnel, he was all three. The accident happened about 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 19, just about lunchtime.

"We are usually open Friday, Saturday and Sunday," Richard said. "Since we already had the food made and couldn't be open for business, we made up sandwiches and offered them to the officers." At first, he said, the officers were hesitant, but after a taste some asked for seconds.

The car, a black Kia Sorrento, was driven by two murder suspects fleeing from the Houston area. Law enforcement agencies at the crash site included: the Concho County Sheriff's Department, the Menard County Sheriff's Department, Texas Rangers, Texas Parks & Wildlife, the Texas Department of Public Safety, EMS, police dogs and more.

Richard, together with his father Daniel Ruiz and a brother, Ruffus Ruiz, had formed the Los Ruiz B.B.Q. LLC in 2013. They converted an old gas station into a restaurant space with a nice tiled bar, artistic medallions created by brother San Angelo artist Raul Ruiz, and a front exterior rocked with creamy limestone.

Richard was very grateful for having rocked the front wall.

His father, 80-year-old Daniel, had just settled down for a quick meal before the lunch rush at the table on the other side of the front wall.

The KIA took out a couple of windows, the front door, broke the wall and sent Daniel flying across the room. His father was shaken and had a cut on his leg, but for the most part came out of the ordeal OK. The family credits God and the rock wall for taking the brunt of the hit.

Unfortunately, the building wasn't insured.

"We were just starting out, this was just our second year," Richard said. "Somehow we were always putting it (insurance) off. Now I wish we hadn't."

Daniel and his two sons come from sheep shearing roots and that's still their main employment. The restaurant was just something fun for the family to do together. Mother, 77-year-old Clara Ruiz, worked as the prep cook and Richard's sister, Dalilah Rodriguez helped out by waiting tables most weekends.

"We like people," Richard said.

"This is our place to hang out as a family," said Dalilah, who'd been working on the day of the accident. "My dad, when he's not working, loves to come and visit with people, play the guitar. All my brothers sing and play guitars as well."

Los Ruiz B.B.Q. is closed for renovations right now, but should be open in about two to three months.
During the Democratic presidential caucus in Nevada last month, the issue of language assistance in elections came up front and center -- and it was not pretty . Fingers pointed in all directions about what actually happened and who was to blame, but what is clear is that there were caucus participants who needed assistance in Spanish to fully understand the process and their options and that they did not receive this essential help. This incident highlights how important language assistance in the political process is and why more must be done to ensure that language needs are being accommodated.Today in the United States, one in five people speak a language other than English at home, and of that population who are 15 or older 42 percent report having some difficulty with the English language. Despite the increases in the eligible voting populations of Latinos and Asian-Americans in recent decades, according to the Pew Research Center there continues to be a 15-20 percent gap in voting participation rates between those voters and whites. While a variety of factors can contribute to a voter's inability to participate in the election process, in many communities language barriers are a huge obstacle.The language-minority voting community often faces the same socio-economic disparities and logistical barriers that negatively impact other marginalized voters. They can face hurdles, and at times discrimination, at the polls from poll workers or challengers who are not able to communicate clearly. In the worst cases, there may be false assumptions that language difficulties mean a voter is ineligible to cast a ballot. And the political process can be overly complicated for those who have emigrated from countries with no democratic system, while our voter materials are often written in complex English.As the 2016 election cycle unfolds, election administrators, civic organizations, and advocates can take steps to help mitigate problems faced by language-minority voters, helping to ensure equal access to the ballot.First, at a minimum, election officials should make sure they comply with federal protections for language minority voters under the Voting Rights Act (VRA). The federal law requires jurisdictions that meet a certain threshold of eligible language-minority voters to provide language assistance via translated written materials, bilingual poll workers, and publicizing available language assistance. Another provision of the VRA allows voters the opportunity to bring someone of their choosing to assist them in the voting process. Administrators should ensure that their poll workers are aware of this right and are trained in how to assist voters with language needs.Additionally -- and regardless of any federal or state requirement -- elections administrators should attempt to recruit bilingual poll workers, identify which polling locations could have a language need, reach out to local and ethnic-community media to help with recruitment, and partner with local and ethnic organizations to review and share nonpartisan election information. A minimal investment in recruitment and targeting can yield big returns for the same cost as hiring monolingual poll workers exclusively. Civic organizations and advocates can help in this effort by working to educate language-minority voters about what rights they have to assistance at the polls and by sharing resources, such as in-language hotlines to call with questions.While the Nevada caucus is the most recent incident of a language-assistance failure, it is not the only incident and it certainly will not be the last. Concerns about language barriers continue to be raised by groups across the country, including Latino voters in Massachusetts Asian voters in Florida and Native American voters in Arizona It remains to be seen how well language-minority voters will be accommodated during the rest of this year's election cycle, but the Nevada incident is a reminder that this is an increasingly important issue in elections. We should address language issues head-on to prevent miscommunication and disenfranchisement, and we should work together to make voting for this growing segment the American population as comfortable and easy as it is for everyone else.
Abortion clinics throughout Florida will go without taxpayer funds, face increased reporting requirements and new hurdles for doctors providing the procedure under a bill signed Friday by Gov. Rick Scott.Scott, a Republican, did not make any comment on HB 1411, which was signed with 67 other bills, but the flood of statements from abortion rights and anti-abortion groups alternatively condemning and praising the move reflects the sharp divide over the issue."As a result of this bill, thousands of people across Florida may no longer be able to access essential reproductive health care, such as cancer screenings, birth control, and well-woman exams," said Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood. "This cruel bill is designed to rip health care away from those most at risk. Rick Scott has shown he will do all he can to strip basic care away from those who need it most."But John Stemberger, president of the Florida Family Policy Council, an Orlando-based social conservative advocacy group, hailed the bill as protecting women's' health, since more inspections will ensure greater quality care."This is a historic victory and we are thrilled to have been an active part of this effort," Stemberger said.The new law, which takes effect July 1, requires doctors performing abortions to have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital, requires annual licensure inspections for clinics and bans the purchase, sell or transfer of fetal remains. The law upgrades the failure to properly dispose of fetal tissue from a second-degree misdemeanor to a first-degree misdemeanor.Stemberger's group has hounded Scott since last fall, when a controversy erupted over videos from anti-abortion groups posing as researchers that showed Planned Parenthood officials in other states negotiating over the transfer of fetal tissue.Scott ordered his health agency to investigate all Planned Parenthood clinics in Florida, but Stemberger said he could go further, by banning the clinics from receiving federal Medicaid funds."(Lawmakers) collectively did what the governor failed to do, namely, provided leadership on this critical issue and made it happen. We are nonetheless pleased that Gov. Scott did follow the Florida Legislature's lead in this matter and signed this important bill into law," Stemberger said.The videos, which involved Planned Parenthood executives in other states, set off a firestorm of protests from anti-abortion activists, who pushed Republicans at the federal and state level to block funding through Medicaid contracts for the group for other health care services. Federal law already blocks funds specifically for abortions.Scott's investigation, conducted by the Agency for Health Care Administration, didn't find any sale of fetal tissue, but it did cite three clinics for performing abortions after the first trimester. Planned Parenthood disputed those allegations, and the case is still pending in court. A separate criminal investigation prompted by House Republicans turned up nothing.The new law attempts to clarify that issue by defining the first trimester as 11 whole weeks after fertilization.The national outcry over the videos came amid an ongoing battle in Florida over abortion. Scott signed a bill last year requiring women to wait 24 hours and get two appointments with a clinic before receiving an abortion.A Gainesville women's health clinic and the ACLU of Florida filed suit against the measure, but an appeals court tossed a lower court injunction against the law last month, leaving the waiting period intact."Anyone who has lived in Florida during the Rick Scott administration cannot be surprised by his signature on this legislation restricting women's access to health care," Howard Simon, executive director of ACLU of Florida, said of the new law.
After former Gov. Rick Perry issued an executive order in December 2014 mandating the use of E-Verify for state agencies, some lawmakers noted the directive lacked a mechanism to ensure compliance.But more than nine months after Gov. Greg Abbott signed a separate E-Verify bill, some of those gaps still exist.Perry's order required state agencies under the purview of the governor's office, along with any contractors and subcontractors those agencies hired, to use E-Verify to ensure all potential new hires were legally eligible to work in the United States.The federal E-Verify system screens for undocumented workers by comparing the information that applicants submit to an employer with records maintained by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration.But Perry's directive didnt assign a state agency to ensure compliance or prescribe penalties for agencies or contractors that dont use the system. While the new law, Senate bill 374 by state Sen. Charles Schwertner, R-Georgetown, expands the requirement to all state agencies, it also doesnt spell out any penalties for agencies that dont comply. And it doesnt assign anyone to make sure the law is being followed.While SB 374 directed the Texas Workforce Commission to implement the bill's provisions, a spokesperson for the agency said that doesn't put the commission in charge of enforcement.There is no provision in this law for TWC to enforce, monitor or report or track other agencies compliance, said spokesperson Lisa Givens. We have provided ongoing technical assistance when requested.There's hasnt been an indication that agencies weren't already cooperating with Perry's 2014 order, which was noted during debate on the bill last year.But while Texas, whose GOP lawmakers often focus their re-election campaigns on promises to crack down on illegal immigration, operates on the honor system, other states back up their laws with harsh penalties for non-compliance.For example, Virginia prohibits an employer from contracting with the state for a year if they dont comply with the states E-Verify law. Georgia performs annual audits to make sure contractors are complying. And in Mississippi, penalties for noncompliance include canceling public contracts and revoking a business license for up to a year.Schwertner didnt seem concerned about the lack of oversight in his bill, but he did say lawmakers could modify the law if thats needed next year.At this point, I have no reason to suspect our state agencies would have any difficulty following SB 374's clear directive to utilize the federal E-Verify system when hiring new state employees, he said in an email. As with all new policy changes, the legislature will continue to monitor the implementation of SB 374, and if additional changes are needed to insure compliance, I'm sure we'll address those concerns in the upcoming session."Abbott, who supported SB 374 during the 84th Legislature, said he stands by the legislation.Gov. Abbott supports the law, and expects state agencies to comply with it, spokesperson John Wittman said.Schwertners bill did expand the scope of Perrys requirement to include all state agencies and not just those under the direction of the governor. It didnt include the provision covering contractors and subcontractors but that issue was addressed this month by an opinion issued by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Paxton ruled contractors and subcontractors hired by executive agencies must also comply with E-Verify.Even without an enforcement provision, analysts argue that the legislation mandating E-Verify use provides enough of a deterrent.Well on the one hand, it would be ideal to have some kind of enforcement mechanism, said Jessica Vaughan, the director of policy studies at the Center for Immigration Studies, a Washington-based think tank that takes a hard-line approach to illegal immigration. But by simply requiring the use of E-Verify itself, then you are going to get many agencies doing their due diligence that werent before.
Politics is a popularity contest. One way to be really well liked, it turns out, is to succeed on the other partys turf.Consider Larry Hogan. Hes only the second Republican elected governor of Maryland over the past half-century. Unlike his sole GOP predecessor, Robert Ehrlich, Hogan doesnt see himself as being at the vanguard of a rising Maryland Republican Party. Instead, hes successfully argued for the benefits of two-party competition, aided in his pitch by an improving economy and some tax and fee cuts. When Democratic legislators disagree with him -- as with a series of veto overrides earlier this year -- Hogan has had some harsh words on social media, but the tone he takes for broader public consumption has been fairly conciliatory.The result is that after a year in office, Hogans approval rating has hit 70 percent. Hes been very smart and very strategic in the policies hes chosen, says Melissa Deckman, who chairs the political science department at Washington College in Chestertown, Md. Hes a Republican in an overwhelmingly Democratic state, so he has not tried to promote any radical change in government.Hogan has benefited from goodwill brought about by his struggle with cancer. But a similar political story can be told in Massachusetts, another blue state with a popular Republican governor, Charlie Baker, who has consistently achieved the highest approval ratings in the country since winning election in 2014.As with Hogan, Baker doesnt have to worry about appeasing his partys extreme flanks. Having been shut out of power, Republicans have mostly tabled hot-button issues such as abortion.Democratic politicians might represent Massachusetts values better, but a series of state House speakers going to jail has left voters open to the idea of a Republican with technocratic appeal, says Shannon Jenkins, the political science chair at the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth. Baker hasnt tried to put forward any sort of social agenda, she says. He knows where his support is, and where its limits are.There arent a lot of Democratic governors leading solidly Republican states just now, although the high approval ratings earned by Steve Bullock in Montana could help him overcome a re-election challenge this fall. Still, a number of recent red state Democrats, such as former Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, managed just like Baker and Hogan to occupy wide swaths of ground in the political center. Sebelius could rally a moderate Republican-Democratic alliance that would back her, as long as she wasnt asking for too much, says Burdett Loomis, Sebelius gubernatorial communications director.Governors have grown more partisan, but charting a middle course can be a winning strategy even in the most politically lopsided states. Even though theres been more party polarization at the state level, Washington Colleges Deckman says, there are pragmatic things that have to be accomplished.
Yearly increases proposed

Resistance from employers

'How it's supposed to work'

California lawmakers have reached a tentative deal with labor groups to increase the state's minimum wage to $15 an hour over the next six years, a move that could head off a costly fight at the ballot box in November.The Legislature is expected to roll out the deal this week, according to the Assembly speaker's office. In an email obtained by The Chronicle, Speaker Anthony Rendon told Assembly Democratic Caucus members that "there appears to be a minimum-wage deal," which will be discussed Monday during a caucus meeting. A vote on the plan could come as early as Thursday, sources said.If a deal is reached, proponents of the minimum-wage initiative could pull the measure from the ballot, a move that would mark the first victory for a 2015 law that changed the way California deals with ballot initiatives. Previously, initiatives had to appear on the ballot once they were submitted with the necessary signatures to qualify, regardless of whether the measure's proponents still supported it.Labor unions qualified the minimum-wage ballot initiative last week after gathering the needed 365,880 signatures. The initiative would boost California's minimum-wage from the current $10 an hour to $15 an hour by January 2021 by increasing about a dollar most years. Backers of another initiative are still collecting signatures for their alternative, which would push the hourly minimum to $15 on July 15, 2020.The tentative agreement between Gov. Jerry Brown's office, labor and legislative leaders would raise the minimum to $15 an hour in 2022 and would give small businesses another year beyond that to reach the $15 level, according to Rendon's email to Assembly Democrats. The added time could be enough to persuade state business leaders to sign on, especially if the more aggressive minimum-wage increase looks like a winner in November.Under the deal, the rate would increase by 50 cents the first two years, to $10.50 in 2017 and $11 in 2018, then by $1 per year until it reaches $15 in 2022, according to a source.The tentative agreement also includes the caveat that the wage increases could be halted during economic downturns, according to the email.Steve Trossman, a spokesman for Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West, which sponsored the minimum-wage ballot measure that qualified last week, declined to say whether his union has signed on to the tentative deal."If there is legislation, we want to see what's on it and we want to analyze it," he said. "If it's passed and it's signed, then we'll decide what we will do with our initiative."With the initiative having already qualified for the November ballot, labor interests hold the upper hand in the negotiation. Although an agreement with Brown and the Legislature would save them from what would probably be a fierce -- and fiercely expensive -- fall campaign against California employers and business interests, that's a battle they believe they would win."We already have an initiative," Trossman said. "And it's very popular."California has one of the highest minimum wages in the country at $10 an hour. Massachusetts' minimum wage is also $10 an hour, while Washington, D.C., has the highest at $10.50.Several Bay Area cities have recently passed legislation ensuring that local workers will make at least $15 per hour well before 2022.The minimum wage in Emeryville will hit $15 in 2017 or 2018 (depending on the size of the business), low-wage workers in San Francisco, Mountain View and Sunnyvale will receive at least $15 per hour by 2018, and employees in El Cerrito will hit the $15-per-hour threshold by 2019.Berkeley, Oakland, Richmond, Palo Alto and Santa Clara have also boosted their minimum wages since 2014, according to data collected by the UC Berkeley Labor Center.Nationwide, half of the 32 counties and cities that have passed local minimum-wage laws since 2012 were in California, the center found.Business groups opposed to raising the minimum wage recently created the Consumers Against Higher Prices Committee to fight the ballot initiative. The group includes the California Restaurant Association, the California Retailers Association and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce."It is imperative that lawmakers listen to the voices of their constituents rather than bowing to the will of special interest groups," the group said Sunday. "If this overreaching deal is passed through the Legislature, it will not solve any of the fundamental problems it seeks to address, and will result in devastating impacts to family-run businesses, education, seniors, services for the disabled, working families and more."Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, wrote a bill last year to raise the minimum wage to $13 by 2017 and add cost-of-living increases starting in 2019. That bill, SB3, stalled in the Assembly but is expected to be rewritten if a deal is reached so that Leno carries the legislation that would bring the minimum wage to $15 in 2022.If that happens, it will be the first time lawmakers have taken advantage of the 2015 law designed to give proponents of initiatives that have qualified for the ballot an opportunity to work with lawmakers to craft deals. SB1253 requires the Legislature to hold a joint public hearing on a proposed initiative as soon as 25 percent of the required signatures are collected.The bill also allows initiatives that have qualified to be pulled from the ballot by their backers. In the past, once an initiative was certified as having collected the signatures needed to make the ballot, only the courts could remove it. For example, in 2012, a proposition on Senate redistricting became irrelevant after a California Supreme Court decision on the matter. By the time the initiative appeared on the ballot, supporters had stopped campaigning for it and even wrote opposition arguments.Darrell Steinberg, the former Senate president pro tem who wrote SB1253, said Sunday that the tentative minimum-wage deal shows his ballot reform bill is working."This is an example of exactly how it's supposed to work," Steinberg said. "It shouldn't be such drama at the point where signatures are due. Then it's all or nothing. Now what happens is the initiative proponents have until the end of June to determine whether to go forward. That leaves more time for them, the governor and the Legislature to find common ground."
John Cornyn has been hoping to take a Texas approach to crime nationwide. Currently the second-ranking Republican in the U.S. Senate, Cornyn previously served as a judge and state attorney general. Like many people, hes been impressed with the steps his law-and-order state has taken to address issues such as sentencing and re-entry. Texas has actually in recent years closed three prison systems, and crime has not spiked, Cornyn said in a speech on the Senate floor last year.Criminal justice reforms are being pushed at the federal level by actors from across the political spectrum -- from the American Civil Liberties Union to the Obama administration to the Koch brothers. It appears to be the rare issue that might not only pass in Congress, but do so with bipartisan support.That could still happen, but chances are starting to look slim. The prospects do seem to be getting dimmer by the day, says Adam Gelb, public safety director with the Pew Charitable Trusts.Cornyn co-sponsored a bill that would reduce the number of crimes subject to mandatory minimum prison sentences, while providing judges with greater discretion. It was approved on a 15-5 committee vote last fall, while a package of related legislation sailed through a House committee.In some ways, the House package was more ambitious. But it also contained a policy change regarding, a legal formulation that in this context would have the effect of shielding corporations from prosecution in some circumstances. Thats a nonstarter for Democrats, putting bipartisan harmony at risk. For many members, its increasingly their position thatand sentencing reform have to be part of one package, says Marc Mauer, executive director of the Sentencing Project. If thats the case, its going to be difficult to get it through. Its not clear theres a compromise position that will readily work for both sides.Even where theres agreement, theres still considerable nervousness among politicians about casting any vote that might appear to give criminals a break, especially in an election year. Its not at all certain, given the atmosphere in Washington, that members of the two parties are willing to hold hands and take this risk together. Some conservatives such as GOP Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas have publicly expressed doubts about the wisdom of proceeding with a bill that would lead to the release of felons. Unfortunately, its caught up in the same sort of tribalism that takes over all our policymaking in the U.S., says Glenn Martin, president of JustLeadershipUSA, which advocates for policies to cut incarceration rates.In response, congressional leaders have grown more hesitant -- including Cornyn. After Cotton raised his objections in January, Cornyn, wearing his leadership hat, said, It is not the kiss of death if you dont do this in 2016.There certainly have been plenty of bills that have taken years and years to work through the maze on Capitol Hill. If federal criminal justice reform is an idea whose time has come, it will get its vote -- if not this year, then sometime in the foreseeable future. Cornyn is not the only member of Congress whos been inspired by success stories from his home state. More than half the states have passed laws in the past decade addressing sentencing and re-entry programs. If Congress doesnt act, says Gelb, it will be swimming against a very strong tide in the states.In the meantime, states will likely continue on their own, but the symbolic value of federal legislation is very important, Mauer says. Theres been no shortage of research showing we use corrections excessively, but its a political climate thats been nervous about reform legislation.
teenagers began overdosing on bath salts. The substance looked innocent -- white powder or crystals that were sold freely in gas stations, convenience stores and tobacco shops. But bath salts had nothing to do with bathing. They were snorted, producing a euphoric high thats been described as excited delirium. They could also bring on intense hallucinations, paranoia, heart attack, kidney failure and death. Unlike heroin or cocaine, which come directly from the poppy flower and coca plants, respectively, bath salts came from cathinones that were synthesized in labs.Bath salts werent the only new synthetic drugs appearing on retail shelves. So was another product, often described as synthetic marijuana, K2 or Spice. The product consisted of dried plant leaves, suitable for smoking, that were sprayed with a synthetic cannabinoid similar to THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. It was sold in a variety of forms. Some retailers packaged them to appeal to kids under names such as Scooby Snax or Blueberry Haze. Others described them as herbal incense or plant fertilizer. The implication was that these substances were marijuana-lite. In fact, like bath salts, the chemically treated plant material in these packets offered heady highs and dangerous downsides -- abnormally high heart rates, lethargy, vomiting, hallucinations, kidney failure and seizures. Worse, the drugs were also connected with violent behavior by users.Synthetic marijuana, or synthetic cannabinoids, as law enforcement prefers to call them, caught on quickly. A 2012 survey of high school seniors found that 11 percent had tried them -- far fewer than the 36 percent of seniors who had smoked actual marijuana, but far more than those who had tried any other type of illicit drug.Between 2010 and 2011, calls to poison control centers related to synthetic drug overdoses surged, rising to a peak of 15,000 calls in 2011. At the same time, the number of emergency room visits involving synthetic cannabinoids nearly tripled, leaping from roughly 11,500 to more than 28,500 in 2012. More than half of those visits involved people who were under 21 years old.Faced with the dangers of synthetic drugs, states and localities promulgated emergency orders that outlawed specific compounds used to make the drugs. Legislatures passed laws that added problem compounds to state schedules of restricted drugs. They also enacted so-called analogue laws to restrict the sale of look-alike drugs. Law enforcement, often working with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), targeted retail sales.These approaches seemed to work. Synthetic cannabinoids disappeared from the counters of retail stores. Visits to the ER for overdoses declined, as did calls to poison control.Last year that all changed.In 2015, calls to the nations 55 poison control centers regarding synthetic drug overdoses doubled, rising from 3,700 in 2014 to roughly 7,800 in 2015. Many of the largest increases were in the East and Southeast. New York City reported a nearly fivefold jump; Alabama saw a tripling of overdoses. The largest percentage increase in the country occurred in Mississippi, where the poison control center reported a leap of 3,000 percent -- from 40 calls about synthetic drugs in 2014 to 1,350 in 2015.Compared to the nations opioid epidemic, synthetic drug overdoses are currently a small-scale problem, even after accounting for last years doubling in calls. Crime labs nationwide report that only about 5 percent of the substances they seize and analyze turn out to be synthetic drugs, a number that has remained constant since 2012. However, policymakers say that several attributes of these drugs justify a high level of concern and a need to take action. The first is that they target children and young adults -- teenagers and college students are the heart of the market. The second is that their side effects can be unsuspectingly severe and dangerous both for users and those around them. These are the worst drugs I have ever seen, says Dr. Mark Ryan, director of the Louisiana Poison Control Center. Take the bad attributes of PCP, cocaine, meth and Ecstasy, lump all the bad things into one drug, and that is what you sometimes get with these.The violent hallucinations are particularly disturbing. In Elkhart, Ind., Prosecuting Attorney Curtis Hill recalls an unusually grisly case that his office was involved with this spring. A couple had taken a bad batch of synthetic drugs. She zoned out. He got delusional and killed her with a knife, which he then used to remove some of her organs.Controlling these substances is by no means straightforward. For policymakers, synthetic drugs pose confounding choices. The early attempts -- outlawing the compounds used in making the drugs and banning look-alikes -- gave prosecutors and law enforcement the tools they needed to remove synthetic cannabinoids from gas station and convenience store shelves. Since then, however, matters have gotten more complex. Overseas chemists continue to create new synthetic cannabinoids designed to evade state and federal restrictions. Identifying these substances is time-consuming for drug labs. Meanwhile, more compounds are constantly appearing. We are entering new frontiers every day with this stuff, says DEA spokesperson Rusty Payne. With the advances in chemistry and science, things that used to take years to develop and synthesize now take months, maybe even weeks.Faced with this emerging and ill-defined problem, state and local governments are not sure what to do. With the heroin crisis raging, there is a reluctance to put too great a focus on synthetic drugs. But a few states are beginning to address the issue before it blows up into a major crisis.with the best of intentions, as an attempt to create a safe, medicinal and legal form of marijuana. While non-medicinal users may indulge themselves in the drug for the sensory experiences it provides, people with medical conditions that cause loss of appetite, nausea, chronic pain, sleeping disorders or intense anxiety report that consuming cannabis brings relief. As a result, researchers had long been interested in developing synthetic forms of THC in the hope of developing a licensed drug that could relieve these symptoms.One of the most committed researchers was a chemist at Clemson University, John W. Huffman. During the 1990s, with funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Huffman created hundreds of synthetic cannabinoids that he named after himself, starting with JWH-007. Then he did what researchers do: He published his results. A series of papers and journal articles included the formula of one of his creations, JWH-018.In 2008, Huffman got a call from the DEA. Authorities in Germany had recently come across a new drug, a chemical being sprayed onto plant leaves so that it could be smoked and consumed. The resulting substance was being sold as synthetic marijuana. A forensic lab had identified the chemical in question as JWH-018. The drugs street name was Spice. Today, Spencer Collier, who served as Alabamas Secretary of Law Enforcement until he was fired in late March , calls Spice the No. 1 narcotics-related issue in Alabama.Alabamas experiences with Spice show just how challenging crafting an effective response to synthetic drugs can be. In 2011, Gov. Robert Bentley issued an executive order that temporarily outlawed five chemicals used to make bath salts and other synthetic drugs. Agents from the state Alcohol Beverage Control Board visited gas stations, tobacco shops and convenience stores across the state to let the retailers know that products such as Spice could no longer be stocked.In some ways, these efforts worked. Synthetic drug sales that once took place openly in retail outlets were pushed into the shadows. Yet far from diminishing, the severity of the problem seems to be increasing. The drugs themselves continue to mutate, making law enforcement trickier. As Alabamas chief law enforcement officer, Collier had called on lawmakers to stiffen penalties for dealers while the agents working under his direction spent more time on educating teenagers about the risks of synthetics, particularly their devastating side effects.In 2012, for example, young adults were transferred from a smaller facility in the northeast part of Alabama to the emergency room at the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) Medical Center. The teens had been smoking a synthetic cannabinoid they had ordered on the Internet called blueberry spice. After dealing with bouts of nausea and vomiting, they became much sicker. Their kidneys started to fail. At UAB, three of the four kids had to be hooked up to dialysis machines.The cases were nothing new for Dr. Erica Liebelt, a pediatrician and toxicologist who serves as the co-director of Alabamas Regional Poison Control Center. Patients with cannabinoid toxicity usually present with central nervous system effects, says Liebelt. Common manifestations include agitation, delirium, anxiety, seizures, she begins, listing the variety of symptoms her patients have had. Extreme paranoia, psychosis. She also mentions a cardiac effect, in which the heart muscle itself starts breaking down.For a clinician, these cases are frustrating. The patients rarely know what theyve consumed. Unlike heroin and other drugs in the opioid family whose bad effects can be interrupted by specific medications, there are no antidotes for these overdoses. Doctors can only be aggressive in providing support care and hoping the patient pulls through.were just beginning four or five years ago to see an upsurge in poisonings from synthetic cannabinoids, the DEA was already working on the problem. In March 2011, the federal agency had issued an emergency rule that made JWH-018 and four closely related compounds subject to the same restrictions as cocaine, heroin and marijuana. Six months later it added the chemicals used to make bath salts to the list. Suppliers -- primarily located in China, according to the DEA -- responded by tweaking the molecular structure of these substances in ways that would allow the drugs to stay off the restricted list. To control these copycat drugs, the DEA turned to a 1982 law that provided penalties for look-alike or analogue drugs.Several states, including Alabama, quickly followed suit. However, applying the law to these new substances was problematic. In addition to establishing whether the chemical composition of new substances was similar to that of scheduled substances, the law also required that they have similar effects. Yet no one really knew what the effects of these new substances would be.In an effort to overcome this hurdle, states undertook some unusual initiatives. For instance, the Missouri Safety Center in 2010 designed a protocol to test the effects of synthetic cannabinoids under the close supervision of specialists. The results were then shared with law enforcement, toxicologists and crime labs across the nation.Because of the complexity of establishing substantial similarity, many prosecutors were reluctant to use analogue laws. Instead, most states developed systems whereby state health departments or pharmacy boards could quickly outlaw -- on a temporary basis -- new substances as soon as they appeared. The state legislature would then come in later to add these chemicals or class of chemicals to the section of the statute governing synthetic drugs.Local authorities also looked for innovative ways to reduce the sales of synthetic drugs. In DeKalb, Ill., City Attorney Dean Frieders was one of the first to use retailers alcohol and tobacco licenses to pressure them to stop selling synthetic drugs. The law he drafted has been widely disseminated by the National Alliance for Model State Drug Laws. The threat of loss of license, Frieders says, has been a powerful spur to cooperation on the issue of synthetic drugs.Alabama tried these measures and more. In 2012, the state legislature followed up on a tragedy -- a child committed suicide after smoking a synthetic cannabinoid -- by outlawing a variety of chemicals. Two years later after the death of another child, the legislature added language outlawing look-alike drugs as well. That same year, in 2014, state and local law enforcement agencies, in conjunction with the DEA, launched Operation Red Tide. More than 4,000 packets of synthetic cannabinoids were seized -- some 200 pounds -- along with 19 guns and $500,000 in cash. In all, 38 people were arrested.Red Tide and other enforcement actions produced some real wins. But synthetic cannabinoids didnt go away. Instead, they went underground. Some store clerks would sell to trusted buyers or their friends.Law enforcement had ways to target these types of operations. Confidential informants could do buys or relay passwords to undercover agents. But the work was tedious. Establishing operator culpability was challenging. Convenience stores in many states are controlled by byzantine webs of holding companies. Ownership changed frequently. As a result, law enforcement agencies were wary of asking judges to seize private property and risk getting sued.Ultimately, these approaches proved faulty. Cases were hard to take to court. Investigations were costly and time-consuming. The laws passed by states were untested. In Indiana, plaintiffs challenged a state law that sought to schedule categories of synthetics as overly broad. The statute was upheld by the state Supreme Court. Many prosecutors shied away from using analogue drug laws. The cost and difficulty of establishing that these drugs truly were analogous to existing scheduled drugs was simply too much.Its easier for those selling synthetic drugs. Take the cost-benefit calculation. An investment of $3,000 is easy to parlay into $100,000 from Internet and street sales. Entering the market is effortless. Would-be narcotics entrepreneurs dont even have to know the names of the chemicals they need, says Heather Gray, the legislative director for the National Alliance for Model State Drug Laws. She recently spent a few hours Googling the street names of synthetic marijuana. When she arrived at work the next morning, she found two emails from distributors in China offering to send her the chemicals to make synthetic cannabinoids. Thats how easy it is, she says. You literally do not have to leave your desk.Not surprisingly, the market has attracted a wide variety of criminals. In Birmingham, a student at UAB built a mail-order synthetic drug empire in the bathroom of his apartment. He ordered chemicals, herbal leaves and packaging from an overseas producer. Then he dissolved the chemical powder into a liquid and sprayed it onto the leaves in his bathtub before packaging the product and mailing it to customers around the country. The day state police raided his apartment, they were startled to discover the dealer was in Las Vegas playing poker at a high-roller table with poker legend Doyle Brunson.Other actors have entered the market as well, including people with close ties to fighting in the Middle East. In Northern Alabama alone, the DEA and state law enforcement agency identified three stores operated by Yemenis who authorities believed were selling synthetic cannabinoids and who were sending millions of dollars a year back to Yemen.Thanks to constantly changing ownership, even pursuing these targets has been challenging. The result has been a game of cat and mouse -- a game where the authorities always seem to be one or two steps behind as variations of the compounds have escalated from an original five to more than 400. While the rate of innovation has slowed somewhat in recent years, crime lab scientists say that new compounds continue to emerge every couple of months.It can take even the most qualified lab technicians a full month to identify and validate an unknown substance -- if everything goes well. Sometimes states cant identify the compounds at all. Last spring, Mississippis Poison Control Center went from receiving two to four calls a month about synthetic drug overdoses to receiving over 700 in April and more than 500 in May. In two months time, synthetic drug overdoses contributed to the deaths of 17 people. The outbreak was traced back to two distributors who were importing synthetic cannabinoids from China. You had people literally mixing it up in a cement mixer, says Dr. Robert Cox, the head of Mississippis Poison Control Center. They had no concept of how much they were giving people.some agents on the front line of the fight against synthetics say a different approach is necessary. Were not going to arrest our way out of this, says Paul Hayes of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Weve tried.What approach authorities should pursue, though, is unclear. In Alabama, narcotics agents now spend a significant amount of time focusing on education. But alerting teenagers to the dangers of drug use is problematic. When kids take the drugs, says Deb Sims, the medical director of the Beacon Addiction Treatment Center, which is affiliated with UAB, theyre trying something new, taking it to the edge a lot of times. Its the lure of something that might give them a different bump. Education campaigns that focus on the danger of substances, she suggests, could serve only to heighten their appeal.Some law enforcement officials question the extent to which they should focus on synthetics at all. Last year, two people in Alabama died from synthetic drug overdoses, notes Nicholas Derzis, the police chief of Hoover, a town outside of Birmingham. In contrast, Jefferson County alone had more than 100 deaths from heroin. You talk about the issues of synthetic drugs in the community, he continues. Even though there have been some, its nothing like the last few years of heroin.Its a legitimate point. Opioids like heroin are clearly the more serious threat. But most of the officials who have seen the effects of synthetics firsthand say it would be a mistake to minimize the dangers they pose. Sometimes we get so mired down in what is staring at us in the face -- heroin, prescription drugs -- that we dont look outside to see what is coming next, says Clay Morris, who heads the DEAs Birmingham office. If we pay attention to the youth, they will tell us by their actions what they are using and trying and what could be the next big thing.Governing
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday passed on hearing former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich's appeal of his conviction and 14-year prison sentence on sweeping corruption charges.The justices' succinct denial marks the end of the legal road for the former Democratic governor, who had argued that the high court should take his case to offer clarity on the question of when political horse trading crosses the line and should be considered bribery.All that likely remains is for the judge who presided over both his trials to resentence Blagojevich.By denying Blagojevich's petition, the Supreme Court upheld the decision last July of a three-judge panel of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago, which threw out five of Blagojevich's extortion convictions on technical grounds but also called the evidence against Blagojevich "overwhelming."If prosecutors opt not to retry Blagojevich on the dismissed counts, the former governor should be resentenced by U.S. District Judge James Zagel, who imposed the original prison term, the appellate court ruled. That small legal victory was tempered by the court when it made it clear that Zagel's original sentence was not out of bounds.Zagel had not set a date to resentence Blagojevich as of Monday.Blagojevich's lawyer, Leonard Goodman, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.While Zagel could simply let his original sentence stand, many legal experts believe the judge will recognize the dismissal of some of the counts by shaving off some time."Prosecutors will note that the appeals court was very clear that the original sentence was appropriate," said former federal prosecutor Jeffrey Cramer. "But the world is not going to stop spinning on its axis if Zagel resentences him to 12 (years)."Blagojevich, 59, was convicted in 2011 of misusing his powers as governor in an array of wrongdoing, most famously for his alleged attempts to sell the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Barack Obama after his 2008 election as president.He has been incarcerated in a federal prison in suburban Denver since March 2012 and is not scheduled to be released until May 2024, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.Cramer, who now works for the security firm Kroll, said that by not taking up Blagojevich's appeal, the Supreme Court "left a little murkiness" for politicians who wonder when exactly otherwise lawful political contributions become illegal bribes. In Illinois, however, decades of corrupt politicians being sent to prison have left the line much more brightly drawn, Cramer said."I don't think Illinois politicians really have to wonder where the line is," Cramer said. "It's usually pretty clear _ it's behind them after they stepped over it."
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GIS - 28 March, 2016: The construction of the new access road to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the first major road infrastructure project for 2016, kicked off on 23 March 2016. The project, to the tune of some Rs 602 million, is expected to be completed by May 2017. The construction of the new access road to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the first major road infrastructure project for 2016, kicked off on 23 March 2016. The project, to the tune of some Rs 602 million, is expected to be completed by May 2017.

The new access road is deemed necessary with the anticipated traffic volumes which will result from the forthcoming planned development in the airport area as well as the future Air Cargo and Freeport Zone. In addition, the road will not only provide a bypass to reduce traffic congestion and enhance road safety in the residential areas of Plaine Magnien, but will offer an alternative route to the airport, in case of emergencies.

During a site visit at the construction area, the Minister of Public Infrastructure and Land Transport, Mr Nandcoomar Bodha, highlighted the three guiding principles that should underlie major construction works: no delays, no cost variations and high quality of work, requesting for the road furniture and road signs to be of international standard. Mr Bodha urged the contractor, the joint venture Colas/ Transinvest Construction Ltd, to complete works ahead of schedule as more major infrastructure works are in the pipeline with the implementation, in about six months time, of the Rs 15 billion Road Decongestion Programme.

According to the Minister, there are high expectations from the population, thus the imperative to speed up the materialisation of major projects with a view to stimulating new dynamics in the Mauritian economy and creating jobs. While stating that the Road Development Authority will have to meet every fortnight to follow up on the major infrastructure projects, Mr Bodha also called on the authority to work on integrating the new access road being built into the southern road network towards Mahebourg.

The Minister commended Omnicane for its contribution to the road project. The private company has provided some 50 arpents of land for the new access road project and will undertake the landscaping based on creating a journey of experiences for the road users. For his part, the CEO of Omnicane, Mr Jacques dUnienville, also present during the site visit, welcomed the collaboration between the Government and the private sector in this endeavour. It is a win-win situation where Omnicane has transferred land freely to Government for the road project which will be of prime importance in the upcoming Mon Tresor Smart City being developed by the company, he said. He added that the new access road will serve as the gateway to Mauritius for any visitor from abroad and as such the landscaping has to represent and promote the island.

The new access road to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is 4.5 km long and will connect the airport to the M1 motorway through a southern bypass of Plaine Magnien. The proposed route is a dual carriageway of 7.3 m wide and will comprise three roundabouts and a grade separator interchange with a fly-over of 120m long.
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GIS - 28 March, 2016: The Health Ministers of India and Mauritius have agreed to the setting-up of a joint working group with a view to foster collaboration in different areas of health sector under the Memorandum of Understanding on health cooperation, signed between the two countries in 2013.

The Minister of Health and Quality of Life, Mr Anil Gayan, made the announcement on Friday 25 March 2016 in a press conference on the outcome of his recent visit to India. The joint working group will work out the modalities of the various collaborative endeavours between Mauritius and India and the specific details of a road map regarding the implementation of projects.

The Minister of Health and Quality of Life deemed the meeting he had with his Indian counterpart, Mr Jagat Prakash Nadda, fruitful. Discussions between the two Health Ministers focussed on scholarships for trainings of Mauritian doctors in Specialty Hospitals in India, the setting up a State-of-the-Art Cancer Unit in Mauritius and assistance in procurement of medical equipment, among others. Mauritius also requested Indias help in upgrading the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in Rose-Belle into a medical university, stated Minister Gayan. It is recalled that the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, inaugurated in 1990, was constructed through a financial grant from India.

The Indias Health Minister has assured of his countrys possible assistance, according to Mr Gayan, who added that it is envisaged to hold the first meeting of the joint working group in Mauritius.

In India, the Minister of Health and Quality of Life moreover signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Balaji Dental and Craniofacial Hospital of Chennai on specialised craniofacial treatment. He had meetings with the Chairperson of the Medical Council of India, Dr Jayshree Mehta, on the review of the Mauritian regulatory mechanism, and the Executive Director of the National Board of Examinations of India, Prof Bipin Batra, on support for the assessment of specialists prior to registration with the Medical Council.

Mr Gayan seized the opportunity of his mission in India to call on several medical specialists and surgeons to carry out complex operations in Mauritians in line with the review of the Overseas Treatment Scheme for the delivery of complex surgical care in Mauritius instead of granting financial assistance to patients for treatment abroad. The Minister said that the request met a positive response.

Shift system in Accident and Emergency Department in all Regional Hospitals

During the press conference, Minister Gayan also announced that a two-tier shift system will be implemented in all the Accident and Emergency Departments of the five Regional Hospitals as from 1st April 2016 with a view to a better patient flow and to minimise delay and waiting time. The measure follows the recruitment of some 136 Medical Health Officers in March 2016.

The Minister urged the medical staff to set aside their personal needs and differences, develop team spirit to work together in an effective manner as well as to share their experiences and information so as to provide high quality health care to the patients.
Whether its school district budgets or city coffers, the Michigan-based financial transparency startup Munetrix is angling itself as a company of note in 2016.Former business consultant and automotive industry executive Bob Kittle and database developer Buzz Brown joined in 2010 to form Munetrix as a solution for governments and school districts budget management. Key features of the cloud platform center on its knack to create simple interactive visuals for complex financials, while at the same time curating a portion of these revenues and expenditures for the public.In January,highlighted Munetrix as one of the top civic innovation companies in its inaugural Govtech100 list. In an interview, Kittle dives into the business digital innards while fleshing out a few of its core benefits.As co-founders, Buzz Brown and I were both involved in public service when, in the mid-2000s it became apparent that A) the economy was shifting dramatically and starting to impact the public sector, B) local governments needed a good dose of reinvention and C) the policymakers tasked with dissecting and making tough budget decisions were themselves not equipped, in many cases, to understand the complexity of the financials they were addressing. I started performing turnaround consulting work in 2006 and was vetted as a Local Unit (of government) financial adviser by the Michigan Department of Treasury in 2009, which lead to the creation of Munetrix in 2010. Munetrix is a play on the words municipal metrics.Reporter Daniel Howes probably said it best in 2011 when he wrote an editorial on Munetrix, calling the tool a fiscal radar. Munetrix has two sides. One is public and adds a level of accountability into any local government because its data is going to be open to the public in a standardized transparent environment  whether they want it to be or not. The other side is a business management, intelligence and analytics tool with robust algorithms and utilities that allows local government administrators the ability to benchmark themselves and customize their data or display the story it tells. Additionally, they can model future budget assumptions using the algorithms to determine if those assumptions will lead them to safe harbor, the potential for fiscal stress, or actual fiscal stress with enough time to make course corrections. As a turnaround consultant, co-founder Kittle suggests the worst line he could ever hear is, We are going to miss payroll. Munetrix all but assures that will not happen in a local government or school district. The companys Munetrix score acts like a personal FICO score for local governments, allowing them to clearly see not only what their fiscal well-being is today, but what it will be in the future.While Munetrix is subscription-based, it also offers a level of no-cost access that allows engaged citizens a street-level view of public-sector financial and demographic data in an easy-to-understand format. Local governments that subscribe to Munetrix can determine if they want to show more data to their citizens, run benchmarks, build budgets and forecasts, or just conduct deeper analytical reviews to better understand their cost centers.Munetrix provides local schools and municipalities a clear and unobstructed view of their future fiscal health. Munetrix  unlike most government transparency and data visualization tools  puts data into context rather than just showing historical trends. This is increasingly important for public schools, whose funding changes dramatically with student population swings  positive or negative. Knowing how your expenses stack up against state and regional averages is important, but also knowing how you are performing against other districts is important as well. Is the money being spent in your organization generating results? Is it at the top or bottom of your performance group? If you gain or lose 100 students, how will this impact you? With Munetrix, this all becomes entirely clear. In Michigan, Munetrix has discovered that there are a lot of districts doing very well  yet at the same time, there are many that are in substantial fiscal stress as well.Munetrixs algorithms use fiscal, demographic and historical economic data with trend analysis to triage large groups of public-sector entities in an early warning environment. The system identifies stressed jurisdictions well in advance of any fiscal cliff  or early enough for them to be able to steer clear of danger. If they are proactive enough to believe what the signs are telling them and want to control their own destiny, they can change the direction they are on using an analytics tool like Munetrix. However, even for jurisdictions who are doing great, Munetrix offers third-party validation for the administrators to share with policymakers and citizens. In a world that often seems thankless, why not toot your own horn if things are going well? Employees appreciate it even if nobody else does.
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Expanding broadband border to border in the state

(TNS) -- Broadband is to people today what electricity was a century ago. People dont know what theyve never had, but once they realize the potential, everyone wants access. The struggle is finding private industry to make the investment and leveraging state and local dollars to fund infrastructure.A Friday morning gathering at the Southwest Regional Development Commission office in Slayton brought together leaders and broadband representatives from multiple counties to share the struggles of broadband expansion with District 22 Sen. Bill Weber (R-Luverne) and District 23A Rep. Bob Gunther (R-Fairmont).Gov. Mark Dayton is requesting $100 million in bonding for Greater Minnesota broadband infrastructure this session, and Weber said the same amount has been identified in both the House and Senate. Miron Carney, mayor of Slayton and chairman of the SRDC, said a request for $100 million is also on the organizations legislative agenda.Travis Thies, general manager of Southwest Minnesota Broadband Services (SMBS), expressed the importance of broadband access for economic growth. That agency received a federal grant to provide broadband service and overbuild eight communities, and Thies said, Weve been very successful.Thies introduced one of his customers, a rural Jackson resident who developed two companies. Troy Rasmussen created a mobile X-ray company in 2010 that relied on a broadband connection to send images. With the help of SMBS, he was able to send the images without having to drive to Worthington to reach a fiber link. Four years later, Rasmussen created a wireless Internet company, which he has now built to more than 100 customers.I cant stress enough how beneficial broadband is, Thies said.Jim Sykora, of the First Independent Bank of Russell, said his bank is using T1 lines to digitally connect their nine offices  a process that costs tens of thousands of dollars per month.Our bread and butter is agriculture and small business customers. Without them, we dont exist, Sykora said. Farmers need that technology and that connection to the outside world. Its critical for all of the small businesses we have in this area.In Rock County, construction is slated to begin April 19 on a project to deliver broadband service to everyone in the county. Currently, Luverne is the only community considered to be served by broadband  all other areas are either unserved or underserved.The county received a $5 million grant to build the system, and the county approved $1 million in bonding for its buy-in, while Alliance Communications is investing $8.5 million into the more than 600-mile system.Rock County Commissioner Jody Reisch said it took a lot of work, including testifying before the House and Senate, to get to where Rock County is today.A lot of folks dont realize the importance of broadband. They think its a luxury, not necessarily driven by commerce, Reisch said. We wanted to make sure no one in Rock County was going to be slighted. For our board to spend a million bucks, thats kind of a big deal.Reisch, who was recently appointed by Dayton to serve on the Minnesota Broadband Task Force, said if Rock County could share what it learned with its sister counties around the state  perhaps aid in streamlining the process  it may be of some value.He also said the $100 million proposed in the governors budget this year is just a drop in the bucket.Dan Dorman, executive director of the Greater Minnesota Partnership, said it will take at least $300 million, and up to $1 billion, to expand broadband to all of the states unserved population today. Dorman spoke Friday about the needs in small communities that dont qualify for grant funding. In some areas, such as Lac Qui Parle County, all of the rural area is served, but the city of Madison wasnt able to access grant dollars. The result is a donut, with people in rural areas getting better download speeds than residents of the city.Slayton would be left out if theres a grant in Murray County, Dorman said. Is this about economic development or isnt it?One of the concerns raised by attendees was the prevailing wage law and how much of an impact it can have on broadband construction. Rock County Administrator Kyle Oldre said prevailing wages would have driven up the cost of their project by 30 percent to 32 percent.We had bids of $14- to $14.5 million, just to put the fiber in the ground  build the trenches, he said, adding that he would like to see changes to allow counties like Rock, which borders Iowa and South Dakota, to use surrounding state data to determine prevailing wage.Out here in Greater Minnesota, we dont think of trades as being as specialized as unions do, added Carney.Ben Humphrey, vice president and manager of Finley Engineerings Minnesota division, said a lot of contractors in southwest Minnesota are not members of a union.All of a sudden, a fiber splicer is called an electrician, he said, adding that companies have to report weekly or biweekly what they are paying people, and it becomes a complex issue.Humphrey also raised concerns about CAF2 (Connect America Funds), which are promoting a minimum standard speed of 10 megabytes download and 1 megabyte upload.Thats already antiquated in our world, he said. 10:1 is a Band-Aid. Its not going to build fiber; its going to upgrade copper services. Very little fiber will be deployed with the CAF funding.The biggest challenge in building out these services and providing what everybody needs, wants and desires is funding, shared Humphrey. We are of the opinion that public-private partnerships are probably the way it needs to go.Nobles County Administrator Tom Johnson told the group about its status as a Blandin Broadband Community. Currently the county is working with Blandin on a feasibility study, and Johnson hopes they will one day be able to deliver broadband access to every home, just as Rock County is working toward.To do that in other counties of southwest Minnesota, many agreed, will take a variety of partnerships.Theres not one solution to fix all of this, Reisch said. Its going to take different solutions to try to get this resolved.Time, they realize, is of the essence.If you dont get rural broadband here, these kids are never going to come back, said Anna Haecherl, a Marshall Independent reporter covering Fridays meeting. You wouldnt move to a town without electricity; and I think for the younger generation, you wont come back to a place that doesnt have broadband.Gunther said the House is committed to $100 million in funding for rural broadband, but he realizes theres a long way to go.Everyone thinks we have a huge surplus  that isnt the case, he said. We have to work on roads, too. Theres an infrastructure problem all over the state. $100 million is the most we think we can come up with.Im hopeful that we can line up with a number that does as much good as possible, added Weber. I think everyone understands the need; theres differences of opinion. Everyone understands the need of transportation, and we all saw where that went last year.
(TNS) -- Residents in the remotest parts of the smallest communities still can make global connections with the right tools, said Gov. Scott Walker Thursday during a visit to Eau Claire.One of those tools is access to broadband, a type of high-speed Internet that connects users to service providers through different transmissions such as DSL, cable modems, fiber cables and wireless technologies.In a visit to Wisconsin Independent Network at Banbury Place, Walker signed into law a bill to quicken the expansion of broadband access in rural communities.Well help you invest to put in the infrastructure because we know particularly in those end-of-the-line, hard-to-reach areas its just too cost prohibitive in terms of return on investment to do it alone, Walker said. But we also know in this state to be successful, everyone has to have access.The bill signed by Walker Thursday directs the Public Service Commission to certify eligible communities as Broadband Forward! as long as they adopt an ordinance to streamline the process between them and the service provider.Today its just one more step of speeding up the process to make it happen, Walker said.Municipalities cant impose fees higher than $100 on the applicants, nor can they impose moratoriums on applications, permits or construction related to installing broadband cables, according to the bill.Lee Lappin, WIN vice president of finance and accounting, said the telecommunications company that specializes in fiber construction is in the process of getting permits for building fiber cables in Illinois, but the company is facing exorbitant fees and answers to requests are being delayed.While the bill affects service providers in Wisconsin, Lappin wishes the bill could expand beyond Wisconsins borders.Most communities in Wisconsin have been good experiences, he said.Lappin pointed out that the future of small former telephone companies is now broadband.Companies such as Tri-County Communications Cooperative based in Strum that services 7,000 members already are providing broadband services.Were a forward-thinking co-op, said CEO Cheryl Rue, noting that people from surrounding communities express interest in maintaining a similar system.She said the bill signed by Walker is one more way to make sure everyone is supported in rural communities.It really takes a community, she said. We all have to work together to better communications for keeping people connected.Walker said his goal within the next few years is to have every part of the state have access to high-speed Internet connections.
(TNS) -- Federal prosecutors investigating the possible mishandling of classified materials on Hillary Clintons private email server have begun the process of setting up formal interviews with some of her longtime and closest aides, according to two people familiar with the probe, an indication that the inquiry is moving into its final phases.Those interviews and the final review of the case, however, could still take many weeks, all but guaranteeing that the investigation will continue to dog Clintons presidential campaign through most, if not all, of the remaining presidential primaries.No dates have been set for questioning the advisors, but a federal prosecutor in recent weeks has called their lawyers to alert them that he would soon be doing so, the sources said. Prosecutors also are expected to seek an interview with Clinton herself, though the timing remains unclear.The interviews by FBI agents and prosecutors will play a significant role in helping them better understand whether Clinton or her aides knowingly or negligently discussed classified government secrets over a non-secure email system when she served as secretary of State.The meetings also are an indication that much of the investigators' background work  recovering deleted emails, understanding how the server operated and determining whether it was breached  is nearing completion.The interviews are critical to understand the volume of information they have accumulated, said James McJunkin, former head of the FBI's Washington field office. They are likely nearing the end of the investigation and the agents need to interview these people to put the information in context. They will then spend time aligning these statements with other information, emails, classified documents, etc., to determine whether there is a prosecutable case."Many legal experts believe that Clinton faces little risk of being prosecuted for using the private email system to conduct official business when she served as Secretary of State, though that decision has raised questions among some about her judgment. They noted that using a private email system was not banned at the time, and others in government had used personal email to transact official business.The bigger question is whether she or her aides distributed classified material in email systems that fell outside of the departments secure classified system. But even if prosecutors determine that she did, chances she will be found criminally liable are low. U.S. law makes it a crime for someone to knowingly or willfully retain classified information, handle it in a grossly negligent manner or to pass it to someone not entitled to see it.Clinton has denied using the email account to send or receive materials marked classified. Though some emails have since been deemed to be too sensitive to release publicly, Clinton's campaign has attributed that to overzealous intelligence officials and "over-classification run amok."Legally it doesnt matter if the emails were marked as classified or not, since government officials are obligated to recognize sensitive material and guard against its release. But legal experts noted that such labels would be helpful to prosecutors seeking to prove she knew the information was classified, a key element of the law.The facts of the case do not fit the law, said Stephen Vladeck, a law professor at American University. Reasonable folks may think that federal law ought to prohibit what Hillary did, but its just not clear to me that it currently does.Even so, her use of the private server, which was based at her home in New York, has become fodder for Clintons political foes as she campaigns to secure the Democratic nomination for president.Though Sen. Bernie Sanders has largely declined to use the email scandal against her in the Democratic primary, Republicans have repeatedly said she should be indicted or disqualified from running for the nation's top office.At a recent Democratic debate, Clinton grew exasperated when asked what she would do if indicted. Thats not going to happen, she said.Her attorney, David Kendall, declined to comment. Her campaign spokesman, Brian Fallon, said in an email that Clinton is ready to work with investigators to conclude the investigation.She first offered last August to meet and answer any questions they might have, Fallon wrote. She would welcome the opportunity to help them complete their work.Lawyers for her closest aides  Huma Abedin, Jake Sullivan, Cheryl Mills and Philippe Renes  either did not respond to messages or declined to comment.The Justice Department and FBI began their investigation after receiving what is known as a security referral in July from the inspector general for U.S. intelligence agencies, which at the time were in the midst of reviewing paper copies of nearly 30,500 emails Clinton turned over in 2014 that she said were work-related.The State Department has since released all 3,871 pages of Clintons emails in its possession and has determined that 22 of her emails contained "top secret" information, though they were not marked as such as the time. Hundreds of others contained material that was either secret or confidential, two lower levels of classification.After stepping down as secretary of State, Clinton, who has said she used her personal email to conduct personal and official business as a matter of convenience, told her staff to delete 31,830 emails on the server that she felt were non-work-related.In August, the FBI obtained the server and has since recovered most, if not all, of the deleted correspondence, said a person familiar with the investigation.FBI agents have finished their review of the server and the correspondence turned over by Clinton to the State Department. They have interviewed a number of former aides so they could better understand how the system was used and why Clinton chose to use it, the person said.Federal prosecutors granted immunity to one of those aides, Bryan Pagliano, who helped set up the server in Clintons home. He has cooperated with the federal investigation and provided security logs that revealed no evidence of foreign hacking, according to a law enforcement official.His lawyer, Mark MacDougall, did not respond to messages seeking comment.The probe is being closely watched and supervised by the Justice Departments top officials and prosecutors. FBI Director James B. Comey has said he has been regularly briefed on the investigation, which is being overseen by prosecutors in the Justice Departments national security division.The decision on whether to prosecute could be difficult. Vladeck, the law professor noted the differences between Clintons email issue and two previous cases involving the mishandling of classified material that resulted in prosecutions and guilty pleas.In 2005, Sandy Berger, a former national security advisor, pleaded guilty to the unlawful removal and retention of national security information after being caught trying to smuggle classified documents out of the National Archives.In another case, Gen. David Petraeus, a former CIA director, was investigated for knowingly allowing a mistress to read classified material as she researched a book about him. Petraeus eventually pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of mishandling classified material and was spared prison time.Legal experts said Petraeus actions were far more serious than anything Clinton is accused of doing. Clintons emails, even those later deemed classified, were sent to aides cleared to read them, for example, and not private citizens, they said.Several of the lawyers involved in Clintons case are familiar with the differences. Petraeus defense lawyer was Kendall, who also represents Clinton. And a prosecutor helping oversee the Clinton email investigation was part of the team that obtained Petraeus guilty plea.Those cases are just so different from what Clinton is accused of doing, Vladeck said. And the Justice Department lawyers know it.While she is not likely to face legal jeopardy, the emails could cause some political heartburn when the aides are questioned. However, short of an indictment or an explosive revelation, the controversy is not likely to alter the overall dynamics of the primary race or general election, political observers said."This is clearly disruptive to the campaign, said Mark Mellman, a Democratic pollster. It will take her off message and coverage about important aides being questioned is not coverage you'd like to have. However, this issue is largely dismissed by Democratic primary voters and baked into the cake for the general electorate.
(TNS) -- Physicians, dentists and other clinicians start exclusively using electronic prescribing systems Sunday as New York begins sweeping paper pads out of day-to-day circulation.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomos office estimates 60,000 prescribers are up and running with certified systems that allow them to generate and transmit prescriptions digitally. New Yorks electronic prescribing law is widely considered the most extensive in the nation.With the move to dedicated digital systems, paper prescriptions should come into play only in the event of a natural disaster or major technological failure, Cuomo said in a statement March 17.As some last-minute stragglers scrambled earlier this month to meet the e-prescribing deadline, state Health Commissioner Howard Zucker sent letters to certain health care professionals with word of an eleventh-hour reprieve.Doctors affiliated with nursing homes, compounding pharmacists who make customized medicines, and physicians involved in clinical trials were granted a blanket waiver allowing them to write or dispense medications using paper prescriptions.Others not required to relinquish their pads include physicians and dentists who have received individual waivers. The state Health Department has not disclosed the number of clinicians receiving those reprieves. Most are older practitioners expected to retire in the next few years.Several clinicians who have spoken to Newsday on background said converting to electronic prescribing and medical records systems is an expense they can ill afford in the closing years of their careers.Although phoned, handwritten, faxed and emailed prescriptions are forbidden for a majority of practitioners under the law as of Sunday, practitioners affiliated with nursing homes can continue their customary prescribing methods until next year.Dr. David Siskind, medical director of Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack, was among those welcoming the reprieve, saying it will give his facility and others like it time to acquire an electronic prescribing system.Most nursing homes would not have been ready by the deadline with an electronic system to send these prescriptions, Siskind said.Long-term care facilities have until March 27, 2017, to install a certified electronic prescribing system, according to Zuckers letter.The New York State Health Facilities Association estimates there are 635 nursing homes and other long-term care facilities statewide. About 37 of those facilities are in Nassau and 42 in Suffolk.Siskind pointed out that nursing homes generally do not have a staff of on-site physicians around the clock.Doctors who treat nursing home patients, he said, often work in practices elsewhere. Traditionally, nurses in the care facilities contact physicians when patients need a medication, and doctors fax or phone in a prescription to a pharmacy.Registered pharmacist Howard Feirman, owner of B&H Compounding Pharmacy in East Meadow, is among another group that can continue working from paper prescriptions until next year. He said current electronic prescribing systems cannot yet accommodate his highly specialized field.Compounding pharmacists, he explained, make customized medications for individuals based on doctors orders, and the medication may require multiple ingredients. That means paper prescriptions are necessary to list a drugs components.Zuckers letter noted that any compounded medication containing two or more ingredients still can be prescribed on a paper form.Current databases underlying e-prescribing systems do not contain complete ingredient information that compounding pharmacists require, Feirman said.When you have a regular drug, it has a specific number, Feirman said of a categorical listing developed by the National Council for Prescription Drug Programs, an accredited organization that sets pharmacy standards. With compounded drugs, there are multiple ingredients and they [state health officials] havent figured out how to list all of the ingredients in a way that they can track them at this point.Waivers for practitioners this year are reminiscent of the reprieve Cuomo granted a year ago, when electronic prescribing was supposed to start for all prescribers. Many doctors, dentists and podiatrists were unprepared as that deadline loomed, so the governor pushed the e-prescribing start date to March 27, 2016.Electronic prescribing was mandated with the state legislatures passage four years ago of the law called Internet System for Tracking Over Prescribing  I-STOP for short. Its aim is to stem the flow of legal drugs into illicit markets. One way to do that, lawmakers said, was to sweep as many prescription blanks as possible out of daily circulation.Two other chief purposes were reducing drug diversion and doctor-shopping, key problems underlying the number of prescription narcotics and addictive psychiatric medications that flourish as street drugs.Drug diversion  the practice of redirecting legal pharmaceuticals into street sales  had grown exponentially in New York, police sources have said.Prescription forms had become valuable currency in the explosive opioid drug epidemic that has surged throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties  and beyond, state lawmakers and doctors said. Addictions have spawned violent crimes while causing a dramatic spike in overdose deaths and babies born craving the drugs themselves.Crime rings stole millions of paper prescription pads and used them to reap tens of thousands of narcotic pills, dispensed directly from pharmacies. The leading drugs sought by dealers and addicts have included hydrocodone, oxycodone and methadone.As many as 1.4 million prescription blanks were stolen between 2008 and 2011 from New York City hospitals, the state Health Department reported in 2011. Most of those blanks were taken from New York City Health and Hospitals Corp. facilities, an investigation by the Health Departments Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement found.Doctor shoppers, meanwhile, went from one physician to another seeking paper prescriptions to feed their addictions.On Friday, Dr. Joseph Maldonado, president of the Medical Society of the State of New York, said it has been a challenge for many clinicians to adopt electronic prescribing, but a majority have done so.Practitioners who are using the technology already have helped drive down the number of prescriptions for narcotic painkillers and other highly addictive drugs, he said.Inappropriate prescriptions due to doctor shopping are down by 90 percent since late last year, Maldonado said. And data shows that prescriptions for the most powerful opioid medications have been declining in New York and are far below most other states in the country.Surescripts, the largest e-prescribing enterprise in the country, reported Friday that the number of New York clinicians prescribing through its system increased 28 percent since March 1 as the state moved closer to its digital prescribing deadline.Maldonado noted that electronic prescribing has drawbacks.There are many physicians across New York State who, by the nature of their patient care setting, write very few prescriptions, he said. Mandating these physicians to adopt costly and cumbersome technologies that so far have proven to be extremely challenging may cause many longtime physicians to give up patient care altogether.
(TNS) -- Google is coming to South Lake Union in a big way.The technology giant announced Thursday it is working with Paul Allens Vulcan Real Estate to move into 607,000 square feet of office space in four buildings planned on Mercer Street between Terry and Fairview avenues North.Google will give Amazon.com some competition in the race to turn a once-sleepy Seattle neighborhood into an even bigger arena for tech powerhouses.Amazon, which frequently works with Vulcan, occupies 2.7 million square feet of space in South Lake Union, about a quarter of the total office space in the neighborhood.Google has not said how many people it envisions in the new buildings, but between 3,000 and 4,000 employees could fit within the office space. The Mountain View, Calif., company employs 1,900 in Washington state, including about 1,000 in Kirkland and most of the rest in Seattles Fremont neighborhood.The new office complexes will be nearly double the size of Googles massive Kirkland campus, which itself recently doubled in size after an expansion project.Google has said it is committed to the Puget Sound area, largely because of Seattles deep talent pool for software engineers and other technical jobs. The company was an early arrival from Silicon Valley to establish an outpost here. Hordes of other tech companies have followed, including Apple, Facebook and Uber.The talent already in South Lake Union might be part of the reason for Googles decision to move to the area.Amazon has some of the strongest cloud-computing talent in the world, as evidenced by its market-leading Amazon Web Services unit. Google has plans to grow its own cloud business, which ranks third behind Amazon and Microsoft. The company announced earlier this week it would add data centers across the world to rapidly scale up its cloud services.According to the South Lake Union plans, Google will occupy six stories in four office buildings. There will be 14,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floors, and two of the buildings will be topped with eight to nine stories of apartments  151 units in total.Google will add tremendously to the neighborhood, said Lori Mason Curran, Vulcans director of real-estate investment strategy.The company plans to leave its building in Fremont when construction in South Lake Union is finished.Weve loved being in the Fremont neighborhood but will need a bit more breathing room, Google Seattle site lead Clyde McQueen said in a statement. Well still catch a view of Lake Union, just from a new location. Were looking forward to walking, biking and riding the streetcar through the neighborhood.Construction would begin in 2017 and be completed in 2019. GLY Construction is the general contractor.Google is known for the inventive design of its buildings. The buildings on the Kirkland campus include multiple micro-kitchens, nap caves and a large wooden nest. The South Lake Union complex will likely be no exception.Vulcan, which is working with Graphite Design Group and Runberg Architecture Group, said the complex, called Lakefront Blocks, will include pedestrian throughways, public bike racks and outdoor courtyards.South Lake Union is a thriving hub, and were excited for our new space, McQueen said.South Lake Union has been transformed over the past decade from an area of warehouses and surface parking lots to a hotbed of tech activity and accompanying towers, restaurants and bars.The development of the neighborhood is often cited as an example of Seattles change  which some say brings economic prosperity while adding to income inequality.Facebook is also expanding in the area . It signed a lease for 274,000 square feet at the new Dexter Station building, just northwest of the heart of Amazons buildings.And Google will move in to its new digs just after travel website Expedia completes its move of 4,500 employees from Bellevue to its new waterfront campus in Seattles Interbay neighborhood, west of South Lake Union.The tech office-space market is strong in the city, and doesnt seem to be slowing down anytime soon.We just keep seeing a lot of growth, not only with tech companies that come out of the Bay Area but also Seattle-area companies, said Oscar Oliveira, a managing director at Broderick Group in Seattle. As long as the economy and the tech markets in general are positive, we will continue to see growth.2015 was the most active year for development since before the recession, according to commercial real-estate brokerage JLL, and several of the top deals involved tech tenants. South Lake Union was the second most active Seattle neighborhood, behind the downtown core.Seattle remains a bargain compared to many major tech hubs, such as San Francisco and New York, JLL research manager Alex Muir said in a report about tech leasing. Companies seeking intellectual capital will continue migrating to, and growing in, the market.Vulcan is a big contributor to the activity; the majority of the companys projects are in South Lake Union. It still owns between 3 million and 4 million square feet of space it can develop in the neighborhood.Vulcan will lease at market rates the 151 apartments in Lakefront Blocks, which will also have fitness centers and rooftop decks. The complex will have 812 parking spaces in garages below ground.Vulcan said it will contribute $4.3 million in incentive zoning fees for affordable housing and day care.Googles Vulcan leases range from 14 to 16 years.
According to a Bank of America Merrill Lynch report in 2015, 80 million to 90 million cybersecurity events happen every year.

The same study revealed 70 percent of cybercrimes go undetected.

According to a PricewaterhouseCoopers study, 1 billion data records were compromised in 2014.

2. Hacktivists

3. Individual threat actors

Prevention Is Key

Hacktivists follow controversial legislation or civic unrest. Monitor current events in your region for situations that may ignite hacktivism. Prepare in advance with your Internet service provider (ISP). Have a mitigation plan in place prior to an attack. It is much more difficult to plan your response in real time in the middle of a crisis event. Consider outsourcing your hosting needs. You also may choose to parse out large agencies with special hosting needs. In addition, consider spreading the wealth of your hosting needs with multiple hosting providers. Limit your hosting needs with only one provider.

When it comes to cybercrime, the numbers tell a startling story:What affect is cybercrime having on your constituents? Cyberthreats and cybercrimes have become a part of our vernacular, withpublishing 700 articles in 2014 related to data breaches, versus just 125 in 2013. Not only has cybercrime entered our regular conversations, but it tops the list of constituent fears as well. According to a 2014 Gallup poll, Americans fear having their credit card information stolen by hackers more than they fear getting robbed or even being murdered.Add to this the fact that mobile devices have opened up access to information in astounding ways  from tracking health information to finding an address using GPS. With all of the opportunities todays technology provides, it also opens the door to cybersecurity risks.The cybercriminals posing the greatest risk to you and the constituents you serve can be grouped into three broad categories: state-sponsored threat actors, hacktivists and individual cybercriminals. Understanding the main differences between each cybercriminal type can be your agencys best cyberthreat defense.These type of cybercriminals typically are backed by hostile foreign governments. Their highly targeted attacks are attempts to steal intellectual property, get access to military intelligence or gain tactical advantage over a rival nation. In the past, U.S. companies Westinghouse Electric Company, U.S. Steel Corp. and others have fallen victim to state-sponsored attacks. In a February 2016 hearing before the House Appropriations Committee  Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, FBI Director James Comey spoke about the agencys focus on state-sponsored cyberthreats, saying, virtually every national security threat and crime problem the FBI faces is cyber-based or -facilitated  we are targeting the most dangerous malicious cyberactivities: high-level intrusions by state-sponsored hackers.With state-sponsored attacks on the rise, even such companies as Facebook are getting involved, warning users who may be the target of state-sponsored actors.Hacktivists launch attacks to promote political agendas. The term hacktivist first surfaced in the mid-1990s and became a mainstream term in 2008 with the public emergence of Anonymous, probably one of the best-known hacktivist groups in the United States.In 2014, following the shooting death of Ferguson, Mo., youth Michael Brown in an incident involving police officers, Anonymous took down several city websites, including that of the Ferguson Police Department. Recent hacktivism by Anonymous includes disrupting service to the state of Michigans website in January 2016 following the news of lead-tainted water supplies in Flint.Individual threat actors are those who commit cybercrimes for sport, often in an attempt to boost their cyber-credentials and hacker reputations. These actors typically operate alone, but their goal appears to be proving their skills and being recruited via social media for larger, more organized attacks. Recently, ransomware is on the rise as a prevalent individual threat actor attack mechanism. Ransomware infects a computer and restricts access, demanding a ransom to remove the restriction placed on the computer and/or files. Typically these attacks request payment via bitcoin because it is largely untraceable.Cryptowall, a type of ransomware, first appeared in 2014. The FBI estimates that as of June 2015, more than $18 million has been collected by Cryptowall. Targets can range from individuals to companies.Organizations hit by ransomware include Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital in California, whose entire computer network was disabled, including digital patient records. The hackers encrypted the hospitals data and demanded $3 million to unlock (decrypt) the network. The hospital reportedly paid a ransom to the hackers in bitcoins equivalent to approximately $17,000. The city of Detroit also was a victim of ransomware and, in this case, the citys entire database was encrypted and held for a ransom of 2,000 bitcoins worth about $800,000. The city did not pay the ransom.Cyberattacks may be hitting government from a variety of sources, but your agency can take initial preventive steps:Cyberthreats are constantly evolving. Like a virus that becomes immune to the original antibiotic cure, cyberattacks and threat actors continuously switch tactics in an attempt to stay a step ahead of virus protection software and law enforcement.Cyberattacks are here to stay and the havoc they wreak is pervasive. By understanding where attacks come from and some preventive steps you can take to minimize an attack, your agency will be better prepared to defend itself and your constituents.
The Indiana Office of Technology Perspective  by CIO Dewand Neely

The Indiana State Police Perspective  by Major Michael White

In 2005, the Indiana Office of Technology (IOT) was created through an executive order by then-Gov. Mitch Daniels. One of its first major initiatives? To consolidate IT resources throughout the many state agencies  a goal some states have pursued and others are still considering for efficiency and budgetary purposes.Throughout the consolidation process, the unique demands of separate agencies have bogged down many IT agencies. And due to the confidentiality concerns of information used by criminal justice agencies, such as state police, highway patrol and investigative bureaus, transitioning such agencies to a consolidated IT model is typically a difficult proposition. Knowing that this was a possible challenge, however, both IOT and the Indiana State Police (ISP) conducted numerous planning meetings to set the course of consolidation, which was successfully completed in 2006.Now, a decade later, state Chief Information Officer Dewand Neely and ISP Assistant Chief of Staff for Communication and Information Systems at ISP Major Michael White reflect upon the challenges and successes of IT consolidation. Both were mid-level managers and in the trenches during the start of the IT consolidation, and now each have the consolidation experience under their belts as they lead their respective agencies.When the statewide IT consolidation began, I was a Senior Systems Administrator. And before the project to consolidate the Indiana State Police was proposed, we had consolidated several large agencies, but had not yet worked with an agency responsible for public safety.Transitioning the management of back-office systems such as email, file/print and data backup made sense both financially and as a support model. Allowing the troopers to focus on their core role of public safety  and not have to worry about replacing hard drives on a server, or sitting on the phone with a vendor haggling over a support agreement  felt like the proper thing to do.The challenge, however, was with addressing the demands of the troopers in the field and making sure response time to their needs was adequate. In a normal business operation, 24/7 support is implied but not necessarily demanded. Servers and applications are monitored 24/7, and they are repaired as needed if issues occur after hours. End-user support, however, is typically handled on a next-business-day basis, and your typical end-user is not performing work duties at, say, 3 a.m.So to allow for a solution that would satisfy both parties, IOT and ISP had to get creative around this aspect. IOT had already implemented a distributed-support model for the field, which closely mimicked ISPs distributed-police-post model. This helped address the majority of field-support needs.The other demand pertained to the heavily relied upon hardware in the troopers vehicle. The laptop, for instance, could not be down for an entire day, thereby preventing the trooper from effectively performing his or her job. The two agencies creatively stocked the distributed police posts with spare hardware so that emergencies could be addressed in very short order.The agencies also created an on-call rotation for field staff specifically for public safety issues and emergencies, which further decreased the amount of time a trooper had to wait to be serviced during off hours. This same process has since been instituted for the computer-aided dispatch systems in all ISP posts. Policies, procedures and standards created around hardware models, system imaging and warranties have helped lower the number of system failures per year. Beyond that, these practices have also helped decrease the time required to resolve issues experienced by troopers and other ISP staff.I was a first sergeant for the ISP when the IT consolidation idea was suggested to our agency. At that time, my primary responsibility was managing the IT hardware assets of the agency, including all of the servers in our data center. Losing control of equipment was a concern, as was the possibility that employees might be transferred. Enforcement personnel were protected, but civilian IT personnel who had been with the agency for decades faced the possibility of transferring to the newly created Indiana IOT. The uncertainty of the future caused tension at first. Nationally, we could find no other state police organizations that had successfully taken on such a project at the scale Indiana was attempting.ISP was one of the last of the approximately 100 agencies to transition to consolidation. It was a benefit for IOT to delay larger and more complex agencies, while building upon the successes of the others. However, they quickly found out we were different. Besides having badges and being armed, we had many systems with complicated security requirements.To begin the transition planning, ISPs IT team completed a survey provided by IOT to obtain an equipment and program inventory. At first, there were topics with which IOT was not familiar  including the state polices responsibilities related to the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) programs. Each agency had its own security concerns going into consolidation, and ours involved the management of the states interface into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), the State Message Switch, the Criminal History Repository, the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) and interfacing into NLETS . It was imperative for both IOT and ISP to rely upon each other to successfully navigate the consolidation obstacles surrounding the CJIS security policies, as well as other state and federal requirements governing criminal justice data.The key to achieving the original consolidation goals  and the reason we now can mark our 10th year of success  is open communications between IOT and ISP. Fiscally, it did not make sense to run many of the functions separately; the cost savings were substantial. It is important to note that agencies cannot go through an IT consolidation with an adversarial mindset.With a well thought out plan and the right people in place representing each agency, consolidation can be successful. Looking back over the last 10 years at the improvements ISP has made and the successes it has experienced in information technology, it is quite evident that none of it would have been possible without the IT consolidation happening first.
Youll have fewer career public servants.



Austin, Texas, CIO Stephen Elkins

Platforms are driving workforce strategies.

The NYC Story



IT Commissioner Anne Roest (pictured above) faces similar staffing challenges in New York City, including an aging workforce, which she spoke about with Public CIO last December.



Weve got to bring a new generation up to take the place of the massive number of people were going to lose in the next few years, she said. The evolutionary nature of technology only complicates hiring efforts, she added. New recruits have to know, or be willing to learn, about things like cloud computing and the Internet of Things. We need to create an environment where people are ready to take a risk, learn something new and have the support system to in fact learn the new skills and move forward with the changing technology.



New York Citys efforts include working with local universities as well as neighborhood-based tech hubs. Were opening up more opportunities for young technologists



to come and work with the city  internships, fellowships  and then giving them an avenue and an understanding of how to get a good city job, Roest said. We want it to be the place to work in the city.



Engagement plays a major role in keeping tech talent around for the long term.



New York City hosts brown-bag-style events to get leadership in front of rank-and-file employees, in both small and large group settings. More important than holding the



meetings, Roest pointed out, is proving that employee voices are heard. If employees request more support in the form of training, for example, they need to see evidence that the city is willing to deliver.



Were working really hard ... to make sure everyone understands that clear career path and that they have the training, tools and support they need to move forward.





New employees may come from unconventional places.



Bryan Sastokas, CIO, Long Beach, Calif.

These days, IT employees might have a background in theater instead of computer science. Theyre more likely than ever to be part-timers and short-timers instead of career public servants. Some of them are even configuring networks on a phone rather than a PC.What, exactly, is going on here?These are all signs of the new normal for government IT departments. Public CIOs and their staffs face disruption from almost every angle  the long-anticipated baby-boomer retirement wave is beginning to crest, younger employees have new ideas about how and where they want to work, and rapidly evolving technology is rewriting the resume of typical tech workers.Those forces are driving CIOs to rethink everything from how they attract talent and what type of talent they really need, to their ratio of full-time to temporary employees.Its a major challenge, said Ohio CIO Stu Davis, of coping with both the states evolving IT needs and a changing market for technology employees. Davis was one of a dozen state and local CIOs interviewed last year about the future of the government IT department. Nearly all of them see major changes on the horizon for public-sector IT workforces.Here are some of the big ones.The days of the traditional government IT shop staffed with lifelong public servants may be numbered. As baby boomers exit the workforce, these organizations are being rebuilt to more easily expand and contract based on workload.In Austin, Texas, the concept is called flexible sourcing. As older workers head out the door, CIO Stephen Elkins said hes evolving his staff from almost 100 percent full-time employees (FTEs) to a mix of full-time staff members, temporary workers and contractors. We want to shift to maybe 70 to 80 percent FTEs and 20 to 30 percent other, he said. The change is designed to help the city IT organization respond more nimbly to a fluctuating workload and evolving customer demands.Elkins is one of several public CIOs who say they are adjusting their ratio of full-time to part-time staff.A similar move is underway in Los Angeles County, where CIO Rich Sanchez also expects to rely more heavily on contract resources. Well approach that probably by developing project-based initiatives so vendors can bid on the development of a project and maybe do some training before they turn the project over to our own resources, he said. Although the county workforce will likely get smaller, he added, itll also get smarter.To streamline that process, the county is developing a master services agreement that will prequalify vendors for this type of work. Were hoping to cut off quite a bit of time because terms and conditions will already be established, Sanchez said. It wont be the traditional 18-month RFP.Most CIOs interviewed acknowledged the importance of maintaining a highly skilled core group of full-time government employees, even if the size of that group ultimately shrinks. But some said even full-timers may not have traditional long-term government careers. Instead, the new generation of workers may move between jobs more frequently.I think youll see people come in and give us three years, then leave for the private sector, and then they may come back when they have a family and dont want to travel so much, said Davis. But we have to attract them, and we have to create a workplace that is both engaging and challenging for them.Although governments still have more than their share of massive traditional IT systems, more development activity is shifting to off-the-shelf and cloud-based platforms. Like their private-sector counterparts, public CIOs are embracing platforms like Salesforce to create business applications more quickly and easily. And thats changing what IT employees do.Gone are the days when were going to have programmers starting from scratch and writing code, said Mahesh Nattanmai, deputy CIO of New York state. Many of us are going to use a COTS product or some other platform to build from. So were less of a product development shop and more of a system integration shop.In New York, the evolution is beingaccelerated by a sweeping reorganization of state IT launched a few years ago. The plan transferred more than 4,000 agency IT workers into the central Office of Information Technology Services, and the change has ramped up retirements among veteran technology staff. Nattanmai said attracting new employees with updated skills ranks among the states biggest challenges.New Yorks technology office is conducting an inventory of development platforms currently used by the state, and that information is shaping its talent management and retention strategies. Were trying to understand what our strengths are, where we need to improve and where we need to focus our training dollars, he said.Long Beach, Calif., also is looking to align workforce talent with a platform strategy. CIO Bryan Sastokas said the city will change platforms if necessary to match the talent thats available to hire. Things are changing so dramatically that you need to take a fresh look at that, he said.As the platform approach reduces the need for hardcore coding, CIOs are seeking employees with a mix of people skills, business savvy and tech smarts. They need staff members who can talk to customers, understand their needs and then use technology tools to create solutions.We used to call those people business systems analysts. The newer terms are user experience architects or user experience designers, Nattanmai said. Those are the skills were trying to build. Absent that, we speak IT, our customers speak non-IT and we have a big gap in the middle.Closely related to the last trend is the notion that at least some new members of the IT department dont need traditional IT backgrounds. CIOs say new recruits are coming from agency business or program divisions  and sometimes beyond.Sometimes Im asked, Why would you hire someone who might have a theater background into this field? But its about engagement, said Sastokas. We want to be business-driven. We want to understand what our customers really want to know, and how can we engage them and not be so technical.The combination of lightweight development platforms and lifelong exposure to technology for many younger workers gives public CIOs more latitude to hire employees with unconventional skill sets.When many of us were starting out, tech was foreign, Sastokas said. But our children are growing up in that environment. They know this stuff. I have developers who dont use PCs anymore. Theyre going onto switches right off their phones.For Minnesota CIO Tom Baden, this trend presents a chance to attract existing state workers with specific business skills into IT. The state will continue to run large, mission-critical systems and hire traditional IT talent to support them, Baden said. But growing adoption of hosted platforms means workers can create solutions without needing to write code or set up servers.Were looking for folks who may not have been trained in a technical space, but they have a real passion for the work theyre doing and they find themselves drawn into technology, he said. Thats an area where Im seeing a positive inflow into IT.Since these employees come from program areas like health and human services, they have a deep understanding of end-user needs, potentially leading to more effective solutions. Another part of this, Baden said, is having solid infrastructures, so the focus can be more on the solution set.Sastokas contends that adding unconventional employees into the IT workforce begins to reshape IT organizations themselves. As IT groups shift their focus to customer needs, core infrastructure becomes lighter and more agile, he said. When you hire in those areas, youre learning from a different viewpoint, and thats where innovation can really occur.But to reap the benefit of new perspectives, public CIOs must be receptive to change. That point recently was driven home to Portage County, Ohio, CIO Brian Kelley by a new hire who requested a Mac instead of the IT departments standard-issue PC. Kelley granted the request after considering both the employees preference and the fact that the county likely will need Apple expertise as it adopts more of the devices in the future.Traditionally the answer would be no, but you have to rethink, repackage and reconsider things today, he said. Were dealing with a generation of individuals who understand technology, and we need to leverage that to our benefit.
It is no surprise Fernando Alonso endured a tough week in the wake of his terrifying Melbourne crash.

That is the claim of Jurgen Lindemann, an FIA doctor who said the Spaniard was in fact lucky to leave Australia with his life after flipping through the gravel in the 2016 season opener.

"In F1 today he can escape unharmed and say to himself 'This car is the safest possible vehicle'. But do not forget that it was a lucky escape," he told Der Spiegel.

Indeed, while Alonso left Australia with only a bandaged knee, it emerged the crash was so violent it broke the seat aboard his McLaren-Honda, triggering further investigations by the FIA.

The 34-year-old hinted over Easter that it has been a tough few days since Melbourne, as he issued an odd-looking 'Tweet'.

Populated simply by dozens of 'emojis', the tweet made clear Alonso has had trouble sleeping, headaches, taken a lot of pills and been unable to train.

"For sure he would have aching muscles and bones lasting a week," said Lindemann. "But these guys are highly trained and with very elastic bodies and it never ceases to amaze me how they recover."

He said it is logical that Alonso has been "relaxing, eating light and sleeping. And then get back to the car as soon as possible," he added, referring to this weekend's return to action in Bahrain, not far from Alonso's home in Dubai.

(GMM)
The Governors proposed 2016-17 budget would appropriate to ARB $500 million in Cap-and-Trade auction proceeds for Low Carbon Transportation and Fuels investmentsincluding $40 million for very low carbon fuel production incentivesand $28.6 million for Air Quality Improvement Program (AQIP) projects.

The California Air Resources Board (ARB) staff has posted a discussion document prior to a 4 April 2016 public workshop on the development of the FY 2016-17 Funding Plan for Low Carbon Transportation and Fuels Investments and AQIP.

At least 50% of these Low Carbon Transportation funds would be invested to benefit disadvantaged communities and at least 10% would be invested directly in disadvantaged communities.

The Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 Funding Plan for Low-Carbon Transportation and Fuels Investments and AQIP (FY 2016-17 Funding Plan) under development describes how these funds would be spent.

The Cap-and-Trade auction proceeds provide funding for ARBs advanced technology, clean transportation incentive programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the types of projects ARB has funded in the past through AQIP. ARB intends these investments to accelerate the transition to low carbon freight and passenger transportation, with an emphasis on low carbon freight and passenger transportation investments that benefit disadvantaged communities.

AQIP is a mobile source incentive program that focuses on reducing criteria pollutant and diesel particulate emissions with concurrent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The discussion document summarizes ARB staffs work to-date and the draft recommendations for the FY 2016-17 Funding Plan. It is organized into two parts:

Draft Funding Plan Recommendationsstaff recommendations on the project categories and funding allocations for the FY 2016-17 cycle.

Long-Term Plan for the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) and Light- Duty Incentiveswork to-date on the long-term plan required by Senate Bill (SB) 1275 (De Leon, Chapter 530, Statutes of 2014).

Of the proposed uses of the $500-million investment, almost half ($230 million) is targeted for the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). Of the $230 million, $55 million is slated to satisfy remaining FY 2015-16 demand (through Sept 2016), and $175 million for the period from Oct 2016-Sept 2017.

CVRP offers vehicle rebates on a first-come, first-served basis for light-duty ZEVs, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), zero-emission motorcycles, and neighborhood electric vehicles.

Rebate amounts are $2,500 for battery electric vehicles (BEVs); $1,500 for PHEVs; $5,000 for fuel cell electric vehicles; and $900 for zero-emission motorcycles and neighborhood electric vehicles.

At the end of March 2016, rebate amounts will increase for lower-income consumers (with household incomes of less than or equal to 300% of the federal poverty level) to $4,000 for BEVs; $3,000 for PHEVs; and $6,500 for fuel cell electric vehicles.

An income cap will be instituted to exclude higher income consumers at the same time. The cap will exclude from CVRP individuals with gross annual incomes greater than $250,000, head-of-household filers with gross incomes greater than $340,000, and joint filers with gross incomes greater than $500,000.

Fuel cell vehicles are temporarily exempt from the income cap because these vehicles are in a much earlier stage of commercialization than BEVs or PHEVs. Staff has committed to re-evaluate these provisions annually. As of February 2016, CVRP has only issued rebates for about 150 fuel cell vehicles. Accordingly, staff believes the higher rebate level and temporary delay of the income cap for these vehicles should remain in place and recommends no changes to these provisions for FY 2016-17.

As of 1 February 2016, CVRP has provided rebates for about 137,000 vehicles at a cost of more than $291 million since the projects launch in 2010.
DARPAs latest Grand Challenge Spectrum Collaboration Challenge (SC2) is designed to ensure that the exponentially growing number of military and civilian wireless devices will have full access to the increasingly crowded electromagnetic spectrum. SC2 will reward teams for developing smart systems that collaboratively, rather than competitively, adapt in real time to todays fast-changing, congested spectrum environmentredefining the conventional spectrum management roles of humans and machines in order to maximize the flow of radio frequency (RF) signals.

DARPA officials unveiled the new Challenge before some 8000 engineers and communications professionals gathered in Las Vegas at the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE).

The primary goal of SC2 is to imbue radios with advanced machine-learning capabilities so they can collectively develop strategies that optimize use of the wireless spectrum in ways not possible with todays intrinsically inefficient approach of pre-allocating exclusive access to designated frequencies.

The challenge is expected to both take advantage of recent significant progress in the fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning and also spur new developments in those research domains, with potential applications in other fields where collaborative decision-making is critical.

DARPA Challenges have traditionally rewarded teams that dominate their competitors, but when it comes to making the most of the electromagnetic spectrum, the team that shares most intelligently is going to win.

We want to radically accelerate the development of machine-learning technologies and strategies that will allow on-the-fly sharing of spectrum at machine timescales. SC2 program manager Paul Tilghman of DARPAs Microsystems Technology Office (MTO)

The Challenge comes at a time of fast-growing need. Military operations increasingly rely on access to the wireless spectrum in order to assess the tactical environment and coordinate and execute their critical missions. But the military is not alone in this challenge: as society enters an era in which ever more products, from refrigerators to automobiles to commercial unmanned aerial vehicles, need access to the spectrum, it will take far more efficient and nimble use of finite spectrum resources to meet the demand.

The current practice of assigning fixed frequencies for various uses irrespective of actual, moment-to-moment demand is simply too inefficient to keep up with actual demand and threatens to undermine wireless reliability. MTO director William Chappell

To host the new Challenge, DARPA aims to construct the largest-of-its-kind wireless testbed, which will serve during and after the SC2 as a national asset for evaluating spectrum-sharing strategies, tactics, and algorithms for next-generation radio systems. The Colosseum, named after the ancient Roman amphitheater, will allow researchers to remotely conduct large-scale experiments with intelligent radio systems in realistic, user-defined RF environments, such as the wireless conditions of a busy city neighborhood or battle setting.

SC2 will unfold in three year-long phases beginning in 2017 and finish in early 2020 with a live competition of finalists who have survived the two preliminary contests. The team whose radios collaborate most effectively with various types of other radios to dynamically optimize spectrum usage will walk away with a grand prize of $2M.

A Broad Agency Announcement for the Spectrum Collaboration Challenge will be released in the coming months and will be available on FedBizOpps.gov.
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Asked for a shared sacrifice in 2011 by a new governor who faced a $3.5 billion deficit, state unions, after months of haggling, layoff notices and second-chance votes of their memberships, finally agreed to contract concessions.

That deal raised copays, deductibles and contributions to their pensions.

Now, with a $220 million short-term revenue shortfall and $900 million deficit in the budget that takes effect July 1, members of the 33 bargaining units representing 47,500 unionized state employees say theyve given enough  even as Gov. Dannel P. Malloy again prepares layoff notices and asks for more contract concessions.

While theyre scared for their jobs and worry about feeding their families, union members seem ready to take the hit.

Of course you think about it, said Michael A. Murray, 52, a former Norwalk police officer who has been a state probation officer in Bridgeport for the last three-and-a-half years. I have a family and they depend on me. Its in the back of your mind.

Its a fact of life, said Merisa Williams, 35, a single mother from Bridgeport who has worked for 15 years as a secretary at Western Connecticut State University. She was first laid off by John G. Rowland, the former governor who went to prison and who was found to have illegally fired union workers in 2003.

Everybody is coming into work waiting for the hammer to fall, Williams said.

State employees are being scapegoated for a badly run state government, said Williams, vice president of Clerical Local 562 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

I dont think we can ever win, because they always blame us and tell us to give back without getting anything, she said in a phone interview last week. Our members are upset and angry.

Carmen Roda, another probation officer who is president of the Judicial Professional Employees Union and has worked in the Judicial Branch for 24 years, warned layoffs could mean higher caseloads, which translates to less oversight and potential threats to public safety.

There will be backlogs in the courts because people wont be able to do their jobs, said the 52-year-old Norwalk resident, noting that Connecticut is nationally recognized for reducing the number of repeat offenders.

The governor is looking to have what he calls a Second Chance Society, but everything thats being proposed is counterintuitive to wanting it, Roda said last week, noting that their are 3,000 people in Bridgeport who are on probation.

Share the pain

I think this is very difficult for labor, Malloy told reporters last week. That doesnt escape me at all. I think labor, like our citizenry, became used to an economy where growth was more rapid. Its true of our citizenry and its true of labor. Theyre in a very difficult position. I think theres lots of people in America who just assume that after the last recession, that our market place would return to what is once was.

Malloy said that the economic collapse of 2008 seems a long time ago.

And yet this recovery is totally unlike every other post-World War II recession, he said. Were in a different time. Weve been impacted on a longterm basis.

Peter Gioia, economist for the Connecticut Business & Industry Association, says that among public-sector employees in the Northeast, Connecticuts have by far the best overall wage and benefit package.

Their benefits arent just rich, theyre extremely rich, said Gioia.

He stressed that while Malloy asked for $1.6 billion from the unions in 2011, they only came up with around $600 million, while a billion dollars in unstipulated savings never occurred.

There are no clawbacks in this SEBAC agreement, so there was no pressure beyond the original things, Gioia said Friday. When they talk about shared sacrifice, it has been pretty minor compared to taxpayers, the hospitals and nonprofits. If the state had that billion dollars right now, wed be in pretty good shape.

Zachary Janowski, director of external affairs for the conservative Yankee Institute for Public Policy, said that a survey last fall indicated that state workers make 25 percent to 40 percent more than equivalent workers outside of state government.

The benefits are disproportionate, out-of-balance and not fair compared to private sector, Janowski said Friday. State employee benefits are going up faster than tax revenue. We need to cut services just to pay for benefits. It cant be fixed overnight, but the state, at this point, is paying well above what is needed.

The layoffs, when they come, might not be as dramatic as Malloy is suggesting, according to Professor Gary L. Rose, chairman of the Department of Government, Politics and Global Studies at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield.

Malloy is expected to wait until the latest round of retirements is filed on April 1 before he starts sending out termination notices.

Nevertheless, some layoffs are coming, Rose said on Friday.

Rose said he believes public employees who worked for the Democratic governors election in 2010 and 2014 might be sensitive.

Certainly, the public employee unions have been a very strong appendage of the party and feel no doubt betrayed by Malloy over what hes doing, Rose said. Hes one of their own. Sure, sure theyre focused on the fact that there are others who could maybe help with the deficit rather than balancing it on their backs.

But Rose said Connecticut has a high number of state employees compared to the general population.

In some respects, it would take a Democrat to do this, Rose said. It was just a matter of time before the bloated state government would be the target, but in order to negotiate this, it takes a Democrat. A Republican governor would face so much opposition, but a Democrat can get it done.

Expired deal

Malloys shared sacrifice of 2011 included the highest tax hike in state history.

After months of back-and-forth with state unions, including thousands of layoff notices, the bargaining units held multiple membership votes, finally agreeing to a variety of contractual changes, including a doubling of prescription copays to $10 for preferred brands; a new retirement program for those hired after July 1, 2011; a cap on salaries that can be considered as part of pension benefits; a two-year wage freeze; and higher contributions for employee contributions to retireee health care that started in July, 2013.

In all, unions gave back about $950 million, according to legislative summaries of the 2011 deal and some 2009 union concessions. In exchange they got a commitment to four years without layoffs.

That expired last year.

I think the governor needs to kind of grow up, Williams said. They need to raise the corporate tax, raise the tax on the wealthy. Its hard living here as a single parent. My child is going to be eight next week and I have to think about paying for college because the next 10 years are going to go by in the blink of an eye.

Im old school, Murray said. When you shake someones hand and make a deal, its a deal. Trying to go back and blame public employees for this whole situation and go back on your deal is unfair.

On Tuesday, Murray and Roda will be among hundreds of unionized state employees rallying outside the Capitols north steps at 10 a.m. with the Connecticut Public Safety Coalition to underscore how layoffs would impact the states quality of life.

I think our members are extremely disappointed that the governor and Legislature think theres only one way: concessions and layoffs, Roda said. In 2011, they asked about giving back to help the states budget problems we did. He hasnt come back to the table to ask us to help. Thats not a partnership. Its a dictatorship. We pay taxes in the state. We live in the community. Our members are scared to death for the safety of the state. State employees gave back. Were asking our elected officials to look for other revenue sources. And if you want our help, ask for it.

kdixon@ctpost.com; Twitter: @KenDixonCT
Get to it, before its too late. Photo: Google

Somehow, Tribeca favorite Raccoon Lodge keeps on keeping on. The doomed dive has been on the way out since it was announced last May that its building would be razed for a new condo development. At the time, reports indicated that the Lodge and seven other bars and restaurants would only be given four months to get out, but that deadline passed and, then, in December it was said that the restaurant would end service on December 31. Not so fast.

The bars owners apparently refuse to ditch their regulars and close until they absolutely have to, as the restaurant celebrated 34 years of cheap libations this past Saturday with drinks and giveaways. The clock is ticking, though, and the Lodges owners will eventually have no choice but to shutter and either relocate or call it a day. When it goes, a large part of lower Manhattans history will go with it: The bar is significant enough for being a celebrated dive in one of Manhattans toniest neighborhoods, but it was also notably a refuge in the weeks after September 11, when it was one of the first businesses in the area to reopen after the attack. The Raccoon Lodge isnt the only major casualty of this new development, either, as Mangez Avec Moi, which until recently was the only place to eat Laotian food in New York, was also forced to shutter after almost three decades in business.

[DNAinfo]
Thats cold.

Get ready to scream: An especially bad harvest has caused the price of vanilla beans to climb nearly 150 percent this year in Madagascar, the worlds largest producer of the sought-after ingredient, and the food industry warns the leap may take its toll on the frozen-foods aisle.

The shortage didnt exactly come out of nowhere. Harvesting vanilla is a drawn-out process as pods must cure for months, and prices have been elevated for some time, but as The Guardian explains, the problems worsening as existing supplies start to run out. The prices of beans are at near-record highs  $205 per kilogram, up from $84 last year and $20 in 2011. With the industry paying more than double for extract, experts worry thats going to translate to price increases at right about the time people decide its ice-cream weather.

Worse, the problem has sort of become circular: Higher prices are tempting farmers into picking beans prematurely. When they do that, flavors diminish, making buyers pickier. Thieves are also exacerbating that issue, and then theres an unrelated problem caused by the industry-wide shift to natural ingredients. And companies that used to get around price spikes by subbing in artificial substitutes arent necessarily doing that anymore, thanks to everyones desire to eat more natural food.

The good news is that Madagascars 2016 crop seems to be off to a good start, but that wont help prices until later this year, and theres an entire summer in between, so you may have to look forward to lots of Italian ices as the weather warms up.

[Guardian]
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Samsung is about to start the construction of a new Research & Development center in Vietnam. The new facility will be in Hanoi and will cost the company $300 million.

The Vietnamese government has agreed to give Samsung the land to build its R&D center without having to pay rent for the next 50 years.

The company is forced to make the investment in a new facility due to restricted space in the one already in operation in Hanoi. The new center will join the ones in the Bac Ninh and Thai Nguyen provinces.

Source | Via
Parliaments lower house rejected the general policy statement of proposed Prime Minister Fritz Alphonse Jean on Sun., Mar. 20, 2016, clearly showing how the mostly fraudulently elected deputies are ready, at any price and without any scruples or embarrassment, to hold the Haitian people in a state of political limbo and concomitant economic misery. Seventy-five deputies took part in the session which had been postponed from Thu., Mar. 17. After Mr. Jean presented his policy statement in accordance with the Haitian Constitutions Article 158, the deputies were invited to speak. There was no real debate, however, because the deputies allied to former President Michel Martelly had already decided to publicly humiliate the designated Prime Minister. Members of the Group of Parliamentarians Listening to the People (GPEP) and the Group of Independent Parliamentarians (GPI) went the podium to express concerns or make demands, but those of the Martellist Parliamentary Alliance for Haiti (APH) maintained a cynical silence. In the end, 38 MPs voted for the Prime Minister, 36 voted against, and one abstained. The Constitution requires an absolute majority in each House  that is 60 deputies and 16 senators  for the Prime Ministers policy statement to be approved. Failing that, the process begins again. However, the process is not at all clear, in large part due to a questionable amendment which parliamentarians of the previous legislature made to the 1987 Constitution. Some say it means interim President Jocelerme Privert must return to square one and nominate a new Prime Minister. Others believe that Mr. Jean has simply to reformulate his policy statement and appear again before Parliament for a vote of confidence. Nothing is really clear about how to proceed. But in reality, it is not Mr. Jeans policy statement that truly interests the fraudulently elected Martellist MPs. They are after the deals and bribes that accompany so many parliamentary votes. Martellist Sen. Edwin Edo Zenny has not minced words to make it clear that he will be selling his vote to approve the Prime Minister for US$1 million. According to some reports, President Privert has already begun consultations for a new Prime Minister nominee. Names rumored by some news sources and social media include university president Enex Jean-Charles, Struggling Peoples Organization (OPL) leader Edgard Leblanc Fils, former presidential candidate Mirlande Manigat, and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) economist Ericq Pierre. Clearly, Mr. Privert finds himself between a rock and a hard place. He is caught in the contradictions between the Constitution and the Feb. 5 agreement which brought him to power, between Martellist politicians and those loyal to former President Rene Preval, and between the Core Group of U.S.-allied ambassadors, headed by UN occupation chief Sandra Honore, and the Haitian people, who have historically refused to bow to those who oppress them. We have learned that on Mon., Mar. 21, Ms. Honore went to the National Palace to apply additional pressure on President Privert. The U.S. and UN wanted a third-round election on Apr. 24. But the Haitian people are preparing to resume their street mobilizations to press their demands for an independent truth commission to investigate what really happened during the fraud and violence-marred elections of Aug. 9 and Oct. 25, 2015. The overwhelming consensus in the streets, and even in the political class, is that the 2015 elections must be annulled and reheld. This is not the position of Washington, Ms. Honore, and the largely fraudulently elected Martellist Parliament. Privert has repeatedly said that he will carry out an audit of the 2015 elections and also of the Martelly governments corruption-ravaged finances, but he still has no government. The acting government of former Prime Minister Evans Paul is made up of the very ministers and officials Privert will be investigating. So, Haiti is in the grips of a deep political imbroglio. Many now say the Feb. 5 agreement no longer holds, and it is time to negotiate another agreement with the participation of Haitian popular organizations, not one dictated by Washington and the Martellist sector. Unfortunately, Mr. Privert and Mr. Jean, both accountants, have only made technocratic proposals, while the solution to Haitis dilemma lies in embracing the masses revolutionary demands for justice, transparency, democracy, and the rollback of Martelly decrees. If the interim leadership continues to forget or downplay that they owe their rise to an historic mass mobilization in January, they will soon find themselves ousted from power by the Parliaments Martellist jackals, who are anxious to get their hands back on the levers of power and complete the 2015 electoral charade.






Haiti - Politic : Evans Paul expresses his gratitude





The outgoing Prime Minister, Evans Paul, after welcoming the appointment of his successor, Enex Jean-Charles https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-16990-haiti-politic-evans-paul-wish-success-to-enex-jean-charles.html took the opportunity to thank the former President of the Republic, Michel Martelly, who appointed him in the context of a complex socio-political crisis in December 2014 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-12811-haiti-politic-ratification-of-evans-paul-is-not-acquired.html He expressed his deep gratitude to all those, members of his government, his private office, its secretariat, the staff of the Primature, the judiciary, the legislature, the National Police of Haiti (PNH), the press, political parties, churches, trade unions, human rights organizations, people's organizations, the international community, the Provisional Electoral Council and the private business sector that have enabled him to maintain a climate of social and political peace in the country over the course of its management of state affairs as Prime Minister.



Evans Paul, activist and political leader, engaged for 40 years in the struggle for the construction of a politically democratic and a prosperous economic Haiti, launched a "patriotic call to the forces of the Nation for the establishment of a climate conducive to social cohesion and the expression of 'Living Together', while remaining resolutely determined to continue to support the Haitian people in the search for political stability and national harmony."



"May God bless Haiti !" wished the outgoing Prime Minister.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Published on 2016/03/27 | Source

Actress Shim Eun-kyung seemed nervous and uncomfortable about something throughout the whole interview. She lacked confidence in her voice and she hung head several times. She was not the actress we know from "Sunny - 2010" or "Miss Granny". We had to push back our questions every time she hung her head. We felt pity for the girl sitting in front of us who kept reflecting on herself when she should be promoting her upcoming movie "Missing You - 2016". We listened to what the actress had to say.

We met Shim Eun-kyung recently in Seoul. The writing, "You killed my dad didn't you?" on the poster of the movie "Missing You - 2016" hints what the movie is about. "Missing You - 2016" starring Shim Eun-kyung, Kim Sung-oh and Yoon Je-moon depicts a girl who waits 15 years for her father's killer to get out of prison and a detective named Dae-yeong (Yoon Je-moon) who looks after her. They go after the killer Ki-bum (Kim Sung-oh).

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"Missing You - 2016" is Shim Eun-kyung's first thriller. It only seems natural after her performance in "Living Death". However, her previous movies "Sunny - 2010" and "Miss Granny" emphasized her cheeriness so the new image in "Missing You - 2016" needed to be strong. However, the role of Hee-joo is quite vague.

"The reason I chose this movie but worried at the same time was because of Hee-joo's unique character. I challenged myself to this unusual character, but when I started making the movie, I became worried. I couldn't relate to her. The characters in "Sunny - 2010" or "Miss Granny" were hard to deal with but at least I related to them. But Hee-joo is innocent but cruel at the same time so I found it hard to bring that part out".

Hee-joo is hard to justify. She tried to be everything director Mo Hong-jin asked for but she couldn't bring out the best and she blames herself for it.

"I just think I wasn't good enough. I should be doing something that I am sure and confident about, but I couldn't and I'm worried about how much of the audience will understand Hee-joo. I wish I had depicted her better, but I hope the audience understands".

We took a look at the primary base of Shim Eun-kyung's problems. She was unstable about her future like anyone would at her age.

"I wondered if I should continue acting. I also thought I have been looking straight ahead for too long. I always thought about the peak which was only about success and not disappointing people. I don't know what's right".

Worries are just worries. Shim Eun-kyung is coming out with "Fabricated City", "The Princess and the Matchmaker", "Queen of Walking", "The Mayor" and more this year. She's guaranteeing her talent. But at the same time, we would like to comfort the actress who is always blaming herself.
On March 24, the Avery County Sheriffs Office arrested Jude Dayton Hughes, 50, of Elk Park and charged him with one felony count of taking indecent liberties with a student.

Indecent Liberties means the willfully taking or attempting to take any immoral, improper, or indecent liberties with a student for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire.

Hughes was employed as a custodian at Avery County High School.

In this instance the Avery County School system and Sheriffs Office worked together to insure no harm or contact was actually made between the perpetrator and the victim.

Once we found out about the improper contact from the school system, the students parents allowed us complete use of the students accounts and we were able to portray ourselves as the student the whole time. The student never actually was part of the investigation other than the initial social media contact and was kept safe and clear from this investigation, ACS Sheriff Kevin Frye stated.

This was one of those instances where the school system and law enforcement along with the District Attorneys office worked in concert to stop an incident before it happened and before any harm could happen to one of the students. I want to thank the school system, staff and the District Attorneys Office for assisting us throughout this investigation. The SBI also was called to assist in collection of all social media and electronic evidence. Sheriff Frye stated.

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During this Easter Season, I better understand how truly blessed I am to have the opportunity to work with a compassionate staff, outstanding students, a caring board and wonderful community members who make up Avery County. When school board members, county commissioners, parents and community members work together, our students benefit. We are very fortunate this happens in our community.

The time in which we welcome our new class of kindergarteners and have the opportunity to get to work with another group of parents and students is just around the corner. As a school system, we are very excited to announce our schedule for the 2016 kindergarten and Pre-K registration. The registration process is designed to provide necessary information for parents and to answer any questions they might have.

A child is eligible for Kindergarten in North Carolina if he/she will be (5) five years old on or before August 31, 2016. A child is eligible for Pre-Kindergarten in North Carolina if he/she will be (4) four years old on or before August 31, 2016 and meets the NC Pre-K guidelines for eligibility. Please contact your local elementary school to put your childs name on the upcoming kindergarten or Pre-K lists.

At kindergarten and Pre-K registration children and parents will explore the classrooms, meet teachers and administrators, make new friends and enjoy a short ride on a school bus while learning about school bus safety. All registering children and parents are invited to have lunch in the school cafeteria compliments of a local business.

Also at registration, each child will have the opportunity to receive a dental screening, vision screening and fingerprinting. For children with medication requirements or special health considerations, a school nurse will be available to meet with parents to discuss medication or health needs.

Kindergarten Registration begins at 8:30am at all the elementary schools on the following dates:

April 5 Banner Elk Elementary School

April 7 Crossnore Elementary School

April 21 Freedom Trail Elementary

April 26 Newland Elementary School

April 28 Riverside Elementary School

Pre-Kindergarten Registration begins at 8:30am at all the elementary schools on the following dates:

May 3 at Banner Elk Elementary School

May 4 at Crossnore Elementary School

May 12 at Newland Elementary School

May 16 at Freedom Trail Elementary School

May 20 at Riverside Elementary School

During the kindergarten registration dates at the respective schools, currently enrolled pre-k and kindergarten students will not be attending school. This allows our kindergarten staff to meet with parents to welcome the class of 2029.

Items to bring to registration

Birth certificate

Current up to date Immunization record

Current kindergarten health assessment. Must be current within one year

Proof of residence

(Complete any forms that are mailed to you by your school principal)

Immunization Information

Students entering Avery County Schools for the first time must be up to date with the required immunizations for North Carolina. For most children this will be the 4 year old shots. Please visit www.immunizenc.org for a list of immunizations required for public school entry. Note that the 30th calendar day for 2016-2017 will tentatively be September 20, 2016 therefore, any student who is not up to date with the required immunizations will be excluded from school until the immunizations are up to date or the proper exemption statements are in place. These are not considered to be excused absences. (NC Immunization Law General Statues of NC Chapter 130A, Article 6)

Kindergarten Health Assessment

http://www.ncdhhs.gov/dph/wch/doc/aboutus/KHA_1-11.pdf

NC Kindergarten Health Assessment must be completed by a health care provider on first time admission to Kindergarten in North Carolina. If this is not on file by the 30th calendar day of school the student will be excluded until this KHA is current.

Child Nutrition Services

For information on the school lunch program, free and reduced applications, or if your child has a food allergy, refer to http://www.averyschools.net//Domain/15.

A very special thank you to our school nurses, Twila Ingwerson, Dawn Hicks and Andrea Buchanan, along with Angela Vitale, Renee Banner and a wonderful team of kindergarten teachers and teacher assistants who have developed and refined this process.

Dont hesitate to let us know if we can answer any questions or assist you in any way.

Sincerely,

David Burleson

Superintendent

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Editors note: N.C. Gov. Pat McCrorys office released the following Q&A: Myths vs Facts: What New York Times, Huffington Post and other media outlets arent saying about common-sense privacy law.

Does the new bill limit or prohibit private sector companies from adopting their own nondiscrimination policies or practices?

Answer: No. Businesses are not limited by this bill. Private individuals, companies and universities can adopt new or keep existing nondiscrimination policies.

Does this bill take away existing protections for individuals in North Carolina?

Answer: No. In fact, for the first time in state history, this law establishes a statewide anti-discrimination policy in North Carolina which is tougher than the federal governments. This also means that the law in North Carolina is not different when you go city to city.

Can businesses and private facilities still offer reasonable accommodations for transgender people, like single occupancy bathrooms for instance?

Answer: Yes. This bill allows and does nothing to prevent businesses, and public or private facilities from providing single use bathrooms.

Can private businesses, if they choose, continue to allow transgender individuals to use the bathroom, locker room or other facilities of the gender they identify with, or provide other accommodations?

Answer: Yes. That is the prerogative of private businesses under this new law. For instance, if a privately-owned sporting facility wants allow attendees of sporting events to use the restroom of their choice, or install unisex bathrooms, they can. The law neither requires nor prohibits them from doing so.

Does this law prohibit towns, cities or counties in North Carolina from setting their own nondiscrimination policies in employment that go beyond state law?

Answer: No. Town, cities and counties in North Carolina are still allowed to set stricter non-discrimination policies for their own employees if they choose.

Does this bill mean transgender people will always have to use the restroom of the sex of their birth, even if they have undergone a sex change?

Answer: No. This law simply says people must use the bathroom of the sex listed on their birth certificate. Anyone who has undergone a sex change can change their sex on their birth certificate.

Im worried about how this new law affects transgender children or students in North Carolina. Does this bill allow bullying against transgender children in schools?

Answer: Absolutely not. North Carolina law specifically prohibits bullying and harassing behavior against children on the basis of sexual identity.

Does this bill affect people with disabilities?

Answer: No. Statewide law also bans discrimination based on disability.

Why did North Carolina pass this law in the first place?

Answer: The bill was passed after the Charlotte City Council voted to impose a regulation requiring businesses to allow a man into a womens restroom, shower, or locker room if they choose. This ordinance would have eliminated the basic expectations of privacy people have when using the rest room by allowing people to use the restroom of their choice. This new local regulation brought up serious privacy concerns by parents, businesses and others across the state, as well as safety concerns that this new local rule could be used by people who would take advantage of this to do harm to others.

In fact, the Charlotte City Council tried to pass this ordinance before but failed, and passed the same ordinance in February of 2016 despite serious concerns from state officials, business leaders and other concerned citizens.

What about parents or caregivers bringing children into the restroom?

Answer: The law provides exceptions to young children accompanied by parents or care givers.

Will this bill threaten federal funding for public schools under Title IX?

Answer: No, according to a federal court which has looked at a similar issue.

Will this bill prevent people from receiving medical attention in an emergency?

Answer: Absolutely not. Nothing will prevent people from receiving medical attention in public or private accommodations.

Will this bill affect North Carolinas ability to create or recruit jobs?

Answer: This bill does not affect companies in North Carolina. North Carolina was one of the top states to do business in the country before this law was passed, and preventing Charlottes bathroom ordinance from going into effect on April 1 wont change that.

Why is the state telling cities and towns what it can and cant do by repealing an ordinance the elected members of the Charlotte City Council passed?

Answer: North Carolina is one of at least 37 states like Virginia where cities and towns cannot pass rules or regulations that exceed the authority given to them by the state. In passing the bathroom ordinance, Charlotte was exceeding its authority and setting rules that had ramifications beyond the City of Charlotte. The legislature acted to address privacy and safety concerns if this ordinance was allowed to go into effect on April 1.

Do any other regulations in North Carolina cities, towns or counties come close to what Charlotte was recommending?

Answer: No. Not that we are aware of. Therefore, nothing changes in North Carolina cities, towns and counties, including in Charlotte, regarding discrimination practices and protections now that this law has passed.

Did only Republicans vote for this bill?

Answer: No. 11 Democrats voted for this bill in the N.C. House of Representatives and no Democratic Senators voted against it. In fact, Democratic Senators walked out to avoid voting on the issue at all because many were going to vote for it and they did not want show their division.

Why did the Legislature call a special session to overturn the bathroom ordinance?

Answer: The new Charlotte ordinance, which would have required all businesses to change their restroom policies and take away the expectation of privacy people have when using the restroom, was going to go into effect on April 1 if no action was taken.

Is North Carolina at a disadvantage when it comes to recruiting jobs because it does not have ordinances like the one Charlotte was proposing?

Answer: No. In fact in the last 3 years without an ordinance like this, North Carolina has created the 6th most jobs in the country  over 260,000 net new jobs. We know of no examples of companies being recruited to North Carolina that have asked if the state has an ordinance like the one Charlotte was proposing.

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Local attorney Joshua J. (Josh) Teague is pleased to announce his candidacy for District Court Judge for the 24th Judicial District of North Carolina. The 24th District encompasses Watauga, Avery, Mitchell, Yancey and Madison counties.

The campaign will hold a Campaign Kick-Off and Meet the Candidate event on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 at Vidalia Restaurant in Boone from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

I am running because I believe that we need honesty, integrity, and consistency in our courts. Our court system is overburdened and under resourced. We need to honestly assess our situation. We need to more efficiently utilize our court and community resources to effectively and justly resolve cases. Recognizing the underlying issue and making appropriate findings and referrals will improve our court efficiency, make our law enforcement efforts more effective, and our communities safer. Teague said.

Strict adherence to the law, treating everyone equally and respectfully maintains the integrity of our system and promotes our values. It creates equal protection and breeds consistency from the bench. It serves to eliminate personal bias and builds confidence in our system of justice.

Teague is originally from Boone, North Carolina and attended Appalachian State University and Wake Forest University School of Law. He returned to Boone to build a general practice focusing in the areas of criminal and juvenile defense, estates and guardianship matters. Teague has also represented clients in civil matters, child support, abuse, neglect and dependency cases as well as serving as a guardian ad litem.

In addition to his practice, Teague is the attorney representative for the Watauga County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) and is a board member for the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center, a non-profit which provides court services to eleven counties in western North Carolina and administers the Drug Treatment Court in Watauga and Avery Counties. Teague is also active with many civic organizations and non-profits.

Teague will face Rebecca Eggers-Gryder, who was appointed to the position by Gov. Pat McCrory to serve out the remainder of an unexpired term, in the November 8 general election.

You can learn more about Josh Teague and his campaign by visiting the campaign page at www.facebook.com/teagueforjudge.

For more information, contact Josh Teague at (828) 262-9897

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On March 28, 2016, Appalachian Hospitality Management, Inc., the corporation that owned the Best Western Hotel in Boone, North Carolina, plead guilty to three counts of involuntary manslaughter.

The Honorable Alan Z. Thornburg, Superior Court Judge, ordered that the corporation be dissolved as a condition of sentencing.

District Attorney Seth Banks confirmed that the charges facing AHM President Barry Damon Mallatere  three counts of involuntary manslaughter and one count of assault inflicting serious injury  were dropped.

The charges resulted from three deaths at the Best Western in the spring of 2013. On April 16, 2013, Daryl and Shirley Jenkins were found deceased in Room 225 of the hotel. 11-year-old Jeffrey Williams and his mother Jeannie Williams stayed in Room 225 the night of June 7, 2013. The following morning, hotel staff found Jeffrey deceased on a bed, and his mother lying unconscious on the bathroom floor. Mrs. Williams was hospitalized and survived.

All three victims died of carbon monoxide poisoning. A joint investigation determined that Appalachian Hospitality Management employees, at the direction of management, improperly installed a pool heater without the required permit and in violation of the North Carolina State Building Code. The heater emitted carbon monoxide through a ventilation system that was in severe disrepair due to years of neglect by the companys owner, management, and employees. A lethal amount of carbon monoxide seeped from the holes in the ventilation system into Room 225, causing the tragic deaths of three innocent people.

Corporation Sentenced in Best Western Deaths

The deaths of Daryl and Shirley Jenkins, and that of Jeffrey Williams came as a result of a series of actions and missteps that were committed by a host of individuals and entities, District Attorney Seth Banks said in a statement. These actions by the individuals, corporations, and governmental agencies turned a seemingly safe hotel room into a death trap. Appalachian Hospitality Management, Incorporateds guilty plea today represents the reality that while we were unable to find any one individual guilty of a criminal act, the actions of the directors, managers, and employees, when taken as a whole, were wrong and amounted to criminal wrongdoing. It is my hope, and that of the families who have suffered such tremendous losses, that the light that has illuminated poor business practices, faulty inspections procedures, and missed opportunities by both private and governmental organizations will not soon dim. Specifically, it is our collective desire that the tragedy these families have endured will lead to meaningful changes in protocols for carbon monoxide testing in hotels and other public places at the local, state, and national level.

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We're a family of seven living in Georgia where Andrew's working as a professor at GSU. You can read more about us here
Ari Rutanen, the detective chief inspector in charge of the pre-trial investigation at the Oulu Police Department, reveals in a press release that the relatively young, native-born man under arrest is suspected of aggravated criminal mischief after tentatively confessing to setting the church on fire.

A man has been arrested in connection with a fire that broke out and devoured a church in Ylivieska, Northern Ostrobothnia, on Saturday.

Finns have widely expressed their dismay at the destruction of the 18th-century wooden church.

The act of mischief in Ylivieska is shocking and stupefying. A local church for many generations, a part of the cultural heritage of Northern Ostrobothnia was destroyed irrevocably in a single moment. Bodily injuries were luckily avoided, Sanni Grahn-Laasonen (NCP), the cabinet member responsible for church affairs, wrote on Facebook.

Kari Makinen, the Archbishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, was similarly shocked by the news from Ylivieska. My thoughts are with the people of Ylivieska. The destruction of the church is very sad news. God, comfort us, be close to us, give us strength in our troubles, he tweeted.

The Parish of Ylivieska has also reported that roughly 500 people attended a midnight service at the ruins of the church on Saturday.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Mikael Korkeakangas, Tomi Hirvinen  Lehtikuva

Source: Uusi Suomi
The sales of daily consumer goods increased particularly, by 2.9 per cent in value and 4.1 per cent in volume.

The value of retail sales grew by 2.3 per cent and the volume of retail sales by as much as 3.9 per cent in comparison to the previous year in February, indicate preliminary data published by Statistics Finland .

Juhana Brotherus, a chief economist at the Mortgage Society of Finland (Hypo), describes the growth as frantic. Retail trade is growing frantically, by 3.9 per cent in February. De-regulating the opening hours of shops has definitely had no negative effect, he wrote on Twitter.

The de-regulation of opening hours was especially expected to boost retail sales over the Easter holidays as shops were allowed to keep their doors open to customers for the first time.

The Finnish Commerce Federation estimates that the holidays will allow retailers to determine whether or not their extended opening hours appeal to customers. Retailers have effectively been allowed to set their opening hours freely since January after the Finnish Parliament voted in favour of a bill to lift the restrictions on opening hours in December.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Markku Ulander  Lehtikuva

Source: Uusi Suomi
Haglund revealed in an interview with Helsingin Sanomat on Friday that he will hand over the reins of the Swedish People's Party in June because he no longer has the drive to seek a ministerial portfolio and has lost his faith in sensible policy-making.

Jan Vapaavuori, a Vice-President at the European Investment Bank (EIB), has said he understands the decision of Carl Haglund not to seek re-election as the chairperson of the Swedish People's Party.

When one of our best politicians throws in the towel, it warrants thorough self-reflection on a number of fronts, Vapaavuori writes on Facebook.

I spent a lot of time with Calle [Haglund] during the final year of the previous Government  that is, the year he described as dreadful and that robbed him of his faith in politics. I personally have to agree on the issue  unfortunately, the ex-Minister of Economic Affairs adds.

Haglund, who served as the Minister of Defence under Prime Ministers Jyrki Katainen (NCP) and Alexander Stubb (NCP), also indicated that the Government of Prime Minister Juha Sipila (Centre) is hamstrung by the same problems as its predecessor.

It was an absolutely dreadful year of horrible see-sawing and humming and hawing. What's even worse is that the same goes on today. It initially seemed as if the Government of Sipila (Centre) was willing to work together, but it continues to wade through the mud. Am I ready to sacrifice a lot to find myself in the same slough after 2019? I can't muster up the motivation for that, he told Helsingin Sanomat.

The Swedish People's Party is to elect a successor to Haglund in its party conference in June. Helsingin Sanomat also reports that his decision to relinquish the gavel came as a surprise to other members of the Swedish People's Party.

Ville Niinisto, the chairperson of the Green League, said he is both appreciative and disappointed with the decision of Haglund.

It is unfortunate that he is stepping down, even though the reasons are, yet again, sound. I personally understand the family reasons very well as I am a shared-custody parent, he writes on Facebook.

Haglund, he also estimates, describes the problems that arose during the last year of the previous electoral term accurately.

I have also heard that the problems exacerbated especially after the Greens left the Government. Good co-operation and leadership are crucial for the efficient functioning of the Government. [These characteristics] have also eluded the Government of Sipila. That is the kind of leadership Finland needs today, he adds.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT

Photo: Petteri Paalasmaa  Uusi Suomi

Source: Uusi Suomi
Christina and Siobhan Lynam with Ciara Dupont All Dublin at the Easter Sunday 1916 Commemorations in Dublin.

Families, tourists and history buffs crowded into the city centre to cheer on the thousands of Defence Force members marching as part of the 1916 Rising centenary.

With tricolours waving, spectators clambered onto post boxes and railings to catch a glimpse of the largest military parade in Irish history.

It was a family affair for Brian Yeates, from Drimnagh.

"The children have been enjoying it, so that's what matters," he said as he carried his young daughter Charlie (9) on his shoulders. "Or at least I hope they are! It's a great sight anyway to see these men and women get the recognition they deserve.

"It's been fantastic to see how people have embraced the 1916 celebrations. For so long it was a slice of our history that was forgotten," he said.

Famine

"We talk an awful lot about the Famine, about the emigration, and then everything that came after it - the War of Independence and, of course, The Troubles.

"But there was little about the Easter Rising, and how it shifted public opinion towards supporting those fighting against British rule."

Spectators from around the world flocked to Dublin for the Rising celebrations.

Mary and Ciaran Byrne have returned to Ireland from New York to partake in the spectacle.

"We have spent four years planning to come over because Irish history is such a significant part of our lives," Mary (56) said.

"We left Cork 30 years ago, and watching the parade made us realise how much we want to return home."

The centenary parade had an extra special meaning for those living in Dublin city.

"I grew up just across from where the soldiers are marching now [Cuffe Street], so I've heard about the Rising all my life due to the fighting on Bishop Street," Stephanie O'Shaughnessy (54) said.

"For the parade to start here means a lot to us."

Stephanie was delighted to see people turn out in their droves to celebrate the historic occasion.

"I think the significance of 1916 has been lost on the younger generation. Those of us who are older remember it more because we were closer to it.

"We knew people who lived though it or heard the stories from their children, or our parents. But it's great to see so many people here today - embracing our history."

Samantha Nugent (49), from Cuffe Street, spoke of her own family connection to the Rising.

"My grandmother was a sergeant in Cumann na mBan and my own mum didn't know she had fought and shot a gun.

"She never told her what she did because no one spoke about it at the time."

Delighted

Caoimhe Considine (3), from Dublin 8, was delighted to "see the army men" according to her dad, Caoimhan Considine.

"We had a really good time. Everyone is in such good spirits. I just wished they'd opened up O'Connell Street completely to the public. It would have made things much livelier," he said.

Up bright and early to get a good spot yesterday, the Daly family were out in force as the parade marched by.

"We packed six of us and a ladder into the car just after 7:30am," said mum Roisin Daly.

"We're up from Naas town in Kildare, but I'm Dublin through and through. We left so early to avoid the traffic, though of course we had to have the Easter egg hunt before we left," she said as she looked at her children Brandon (6) and Mark (2). "They wouldn't let us leave the house otherwise."

Staring at the parade as it marched by, Roisin said the effort gone into the 1916 Rising centenary had made her "proud".

Despite all the impressive military armaments on display, Gerry Deane, from the Liberties, said his favourite moment of the parade was the onlookers themselves.

"It was a smashing atmosphere and not a cross word was had," he told the Herald.

"Everyone was in great humour, which is always fantastic to see."
Families of combatants in the 1916 Rising spoke of being deeply moved by the centenary events in Dublin yesterday.

Many wore the medals awarded to their relatives as they watched the ceremonies and listened to the military bands.

Sean Egan (80), from Rathfarnham, wore medals on his overcoat and spoke of his two uncles who marched into battle for the Irish Republic in Dublin a century ago.

"My uncle Thomas Kelly was in the Boland's Mills garrison and my uncle Joseph Kelly was in the GPO garrison. Thomas was wounded but he survived," said Mr Egan.

"The centenary was magnificent in honouring those who fought for Ireland."

Mr Egan recalled the 50th anniversary commemoration in Dublin when Joseph Kelly marched with the veterans as Thomas had died by then.

"I remember the veterans marching but the band had to reduce the number of steps per minute because of their age. That was an incredibly emotional thing to see then," he said.

"And now it was tremendous to see the events today." The face of two-year-old Sean Foster, the youngest victim of the Rising, is on one of the commemorative stamps. He was shot dead in crossfire in the inner city.

The child's relatives, Mary Christian and her daughter Aisling (23), from Dublin, attended the ceremonies. Mary's father was Sean's cousin. The commemorations were very moving, she said.

Sibeal Doolan (84), from Harold's Cross, spoke warmly of her father, Joseph Doolan, who fought with the volunteers in the South Dublin Union.

"He survived and lived to be 92. He was imprisoned in Frongoch camp in Wales but he spoke very little about his experiences. Many didn't speak about those days," she said.

"I feel wonderfully proud of him. When they played the national anthem today and raised the flag, it really was a quite wonderful moment."

Fianna Fail TD Eamon O'Cuiv, grandson of 1916 leader Eamon de Valera, said he was accompanied during the ceremonies by Ann Hearsey, a grandniece of British army officer Edo Hitzen who took the surrender of his grandfather's garrison at Boland's Mills.

"Today, the ceremony brought back the enormity of the sacrifices of so many volunteers in 1916 who were ordinary people with families," said Mr O Cuiv.

Kevin Carroll (54), from Wexford, wore the medals of his grandfather, John Carroll, who was 17 when he took up arms in Enniscorthy in 1916.

"I feel really proud of him today," he said.
Gardai investigate the deaths of a father and son at the Royal canal at Ashington on the Navan road in Dublin. Picture: Arthur Carron

A father desperately tried to save his young son who had fallen into a stream beside the Royal Canal before the pair tragically died.

The father, named locally as Sean Sweeney, was on his way to visit relatives with his three-year-old son Lee when the tragedy occurred.

It is believed the toddler fell into the water before his dad desperately attempted to rescue him.

However Sean - who is aged in his mid 30s and is known as 'Curley' in the Ashington area - also got into difficulty.

The bodies of father and son were discovered by a passer-by, who immediately alerted emergency services.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics they were pronounced dead at the scene.

The shocking incident occurred at approximately 3pm yesterday in the Ashington Park area of Ashtown, Co Dublin.

Ambulance

Gardai sealed off the scene yesterday afternoon as senior detectives arrived to investigate the tragedy.

An ambulance arrived shortly before 6pm to remove the bodies of the deceased, as shocked locals looked on in disbelief. One local man described the incident as "truly horrific", adding that he knew the older victim.

"I would have known him to see. His family live near to where it happened, the two of them were on their way to the father's house," the local man said.

As the family of the victims gathered at Mr Sweeney's family home, a man believed to be related to the young child had to be restrained by gardai.

Despite the investigation being in the preliminary stages, gardai are not treating the deaths as suspicious and believe it was simply a tragic accident.

Local Labour councillor Brendan Carr said the community had been left "devastated" by the news. "Naturally, our heart goes out to the families involved in this incident. It is the second tragedy involving a child to occur in this body of water in recent years.

"It must now be a necessity to implement safety procedures and standards in this area," he said. The politician said the pair were in the area visiting a relative on Easter Sunday.

Tragic

Cllr Carr said: "This man was originally from Finglas. He was a very nice young lad. He was bringing the child over to a relative to get some Easter eggs.

"He lived in Finglas and this was a short-cut home. "

North Dublin TD Noel Rock said: "This is an unspeakably tragic incident. Easter is always a time for family, so to hear of someone passing away tragically on their way home is truly sad. My heart goes out to the family, and to those affected by this awful loss."

A spokesman for Irish Rail confirmed that trains between Ashtown and Broombridge stations were stopped for 30 minutes after the discovery.

"At the start it was unclear if this was on rail or canal so we had to stop the train.

"It was stopped for around half an hour. There were a couple of hundred passengers on the trains at the time, but when they learned the circumstances they weren't too upset about the delay."
Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch at the funeral of his brother Eddie Hutch Snr.

US dignitaries who travelled to Ireland for the Easter centenary celebrations were warned of the Hutch/Kinahan feud.

A security alert was issued ahead of the celebrations, as thousands of foreign visitors arrived in the capital.

The alert contained a special "threat assessment" for dignitaries staying in Ireland over the Easter weekend. It was issued by the Irish section of the United States Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC).

In a three-page document, a number of warnings are provided, with explicit information about the deadly feud between the Hutch and Kinahan gangs.

The dossier warns of "additional criminal incidents and assassination attempts related to the recent string of violence are possible".

The document, viewed by RTE's This Week programme, is marked "for US private sector security purposes only".

Also discussed in the security alert was the false claims that the Continuity IRA were responsible for the Regency Hotel attack.

However, while acknowledging that these claims were later rejected by the CIRA, the document discusses the "possibly related assassination" of Vinnie Ryan (25).

Dissident

The dissident republican was gunned down as he sat in a car outside his girlfriend's home on McKee Road in Finglas last month.

However, it is not believed that his death is linked to the feud between the Hutch gang and the Kinahan cartel.

Detectives are investigating whether drug trafficker 'Mr Big' was responsible for the murder of Ryan.

The threat assessment - given to Irish-based members of the OSAC - also warned dignitaries to "avoid speaking about events" surrounding the celebration of the Easter Rising due to the political sensitivity.

The US Embassy did not respond to requests for a comment when contacted by the Herald last night.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

When we start thinking spring, one color comes to mind.

Tender pea shoots, that soft fuzziness on budding trees, a new lawn  theres a palette of greens that herald natures shift to the warm seasons.

And there are many fresh ways to bring green indoors with paint and furnishings.

Green is Mother Natures favorite color. Its so abundant in the world around us that were accustomed to seeing it as a background color, says Lee Eiseman, head of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training near Seattle.

She also points out the good-for-you connotations of green  eating fruits and vegetables, juicing and so on  and the generally calming nature of the hue.

Were looking for that restful shade to bring the outside in, and provide balance in our lives, she says.

Dee Schlotter, the spokesperson for PPG Brands, design and color marketers and makers of PPG Paints, says, Green is restorative, rejuvenating and fresh. Being in nature brings an ease or a relaxation thats almost immediate. Recreating that feeling in the home is very popular right now.

The company has chosen Paradise Found as their 2016 color of the year. Its a soothing gray-green with a hint of blue.

Greens like this play well with others. Combining gray-green with matte black modernizes a traditional space. Paired with white, the color becomes more mineral and organic.

Farrow & Ball has a new, leafy, verdant hue with historic provenance to help commemorate the paint makers 70th anniversary.

Yeabridge Green was originally found in an 18th century Georgian farmhouse in the (United Kingdom) county of Somerset, creative director Charlie Cosby recalls. During renovation, an original gun cupboard was removed, revealing the paint color.

Rich and earthy, its a green in the family of avocado, olive and evergreen.

Crate & Barrels Marin collection of artisan-made stoneware comes in a relaxed yet sophisticated lemongrass shade. Theres a soft wool rug named Baxter in the hue as well. (www.crateandbarrel.com )

If youre trying green for the first time, Eiseman advises looking at the blue-greens. Theyre the most universally pleasant and least risky, she says. Particularly teals and deep turquoise.

West Elm has a little midcentury-style desk and wooden counter stools in a gentle blue-green theyre calling oregano. (www.westelm.com )

CB2 has a sleek, low-profile dresser done in high-gloss mint lacquer. They also have a mint, powder-coated steel filing cabinet, and an array of minty trays, vases and napery. (www.cb2.com )

Saturated shades like chartreuse, citron and lime give a pop to walls and home accessories. At All Modern, find bold, zigzag-printed throws and slipper chairs from Amity Home, Deny Designs and Handy Living. (www.allmodern.com)

Kitchenaids mixers and tools come in a fresh apple green. (www.kitchenaid.com)

Looking for other colors with which to pair green?

Reach across the color wheel and choose the complementary colors, Eiseman says. Its the rose tones, wines and warm purples that are very effective with shades of green.
Nothing goes right for Edgewood in long trip to East Central
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New political equations in West Bengal have raised hopes for both the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the BJP in the coming assembly elections. It is almost certain that the state is going to witness a triangular fight in most of the constituencies, now that there is an electoral alliance between the Left and the Congress even though in about a dozen seats they are contesting each other. As of now, the TMC has an edge over others. But a great deal depends on how these parties do their electioneering in the coming days. The stakes are high for the BJP; after losing in Delhi and Bihar, the party will now try hard to win as many seats as possible in West Bengal and Assam. But there are problems and the party has to address them.

The BJP lacks enough foot-soldiers to help it win a large number of seats. It controls only a handful of local-level political bodies such as gram panchayats, anchal panchyat and zilla parishad (village, block and district councils). In 2013 the TMC defeated the BJP in three-tier panchayat elections in all the districts. The BJPs performance in the municipal elections was far from satisfactory. In the Kolkata municipal elections it lost to the TMC by wide margins. In the parliamentary elections in 2014, the BJP managed to secure 17.02% of the votes, as compared to 39.79% of the TMC. In the 2015 byelections in the Bangaon parliamentary and Krishanganj assembly constituencies, the BJP did relatively well and since then it has managed to put pressure on the ruling party. During the last one year it has organised a large number of rallies with prominent leaders of the party, with the turnout in each of these rallies being quite high.

Read | TMC in a tight corner in LS over bribery sting; govt suggests probe

In order to do well in the coming assembly elections, the party needs a cadre to mobilise support in different parts of the state. During the past four decades, the CPI(M) has spent a great deal of effort to build its local organisations, and the TMC has done the same thing since the 2011 assembly elections. It is difficult to deny that the tireless efforts of the foot-soldiers helped Mamata Banerjee to win polls over the past five years. The partys defeat in the Delhi and Bihar assembly elections has demoralised the small group of BJP party workers in the state, and recruiting a cadre before the elections is not going to be easy.

The BJP has to leave behind its baahari (outsider) tag and for that it must project leaders who can speak in Bengali. Unfortunately, they do not have Bengali-speaking popular leaders. It seems they have lost an opportunity by not making an all-out effort to welcome the Trinamools much-maligned leader Mukul Roy, who is now back with the party. Also, the BJP has not yet succeeded in finding a stalwart who could be its chief ministerial candidate. As a result, it will be difficult for the party to convince the electorate that it can form the government under the leadership of a popular leader. In the Delhi assembly elections, the BJP paid the price of selecting its chief ministerial candidate late. The TMC has a chief ministerial candidate, and the CPI(M) too for quite some time is projecting one or two leaders who could be chief minister.

Read | Rahul Sinha, Rupa Ganguly among 194 BJP candidates in West Bengal polls

The BJPs fault lines are in the Muslim-dominated districts such as Malda, North and South Dinajpur, Murshidabad and, to some extent, South 24 Parganas. According to the 2011 census, the Muslim population in the state has gone up to 27%. The lynching incident in Dadri, UP, and the anti-Muslim propaganda by the Sangh parivar will help other parties to grab this huge vote bank. The TMC took great care to keep the Muslim voters on its side by partially implementing the Sachar Committee Report (2006), including as many as 30 Muslim occupational categories in the state OBC list, and offering financial assistance and loans to the Muslim youth. The BJP, however, can expect some support from the 25% Dalits belonging to either the displaced Namasudra caste or the Rajbangshis in north Bengal. It depends a lot on how the Dalits vote in the border districts, where they are in a majority. The TMC and the CPI (M) have received the support of the Dalits from the border districts for many years by distributing fake voter cards and giving rations at a subsidised rate. The BJP is trying hard to get the support of a section of illegal migrants by calling them Hindu refugees.

Read | Left, Right, Centre: Bengal elections may be the battle of future

All is not well with the TMC either. Besides the anti-incumbency factor, it is now struggling to deal with the crisis that emerged as a result of the Saradha chit fund scam. The party is still in damage control mode. The involvement of some high-profile TMC leaders in the scam raises questions about chief minister Mamata Banerjees commitment to root out corruption in the state. Similarly, questions are being raised about the TMCs ability to offer good governance. The recent riots in Malda have exposed the ineffectiveness of the government machinery in dealing with law and order problems. As far as the economy is concerned, the TMC neither managed to attract investment for infrastructural growth nor created jobs. Against this backdrop, all eyes are now on the CPI(M)-Congress coalition. Is this a viable alternative? This seems to be the question that the people of West Bengal are asking now.

Read | Bengal elections: Congress, Left may opt for an informal alliance

Abhijit Dasgupta is head of the department of sociology, Delhi School of Economics

The views expressed are personal
Just a few days after the 22/3 attacks on Brussels our thoughts continue to go to the victims and their families. This cowardly act of violence has made victims of citizens from many countries, including India. We are grateful for the declarations of solidarity and sympathy we received from the Indian authorities, Indian public and from our friends all over the world.

Little knowledge about Belgium has led a few commentators in some media to present wide-ranging interpretations and conclusions about my country, which were at times completely inaccurate. The important thing to remember is that Brussels was hit recently by blind terrorism. The capital of Belgium and of Europe joined the list of cities that have been hit by such violence in recent years. A peace loving country with a history of non-violence was hit in its heart.

Read | Brussels attack: Three more held on terrorism charges

The Belgian authorities, together with our friends in Europe and abroad, are taking action. Reflection on and analysis of how to reinforce our security arrangements and how to implement them better, is taking place. After last years Paris attacks some measures were already taken in Belgium. The latest events have, once again, shown that efficient internal and international cooperation is important and has to be taken to the next level.

The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Brussels is an important moment in the India-Belgium relations. Bilateral cooperation in many areas is on the agenda of the talks between Prime Ministers Charles Michel and Modi. One of the important topics will be our common fight against terrorism. Belgium, Europe and India share characteristics that make us somehow vulnerable. We are open, democratic and multicultural societies. Individual freedom is one of our fundamental values. And we are resolved not to put it on hold in our response to terrorism.

We are also looking forward to the upcoming EU-India-summit, which will take place after the India-Belgium talks. It will provide an opportunity to discuss the issue of the fight against terrorism, one of many topics on the agenda of the talks between the EU and India.

Belgium will never forget the Indian soldiers who fought for us in World War I. In 2011, a monument in their honour was inaugurated near the Menin Gate in Ypres. In 2017, we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Our economic and academic ties are showing remarkable dynamism. Our trade relations are well established and they have a potential for becoming stronger. Belgium and India can learn from each others know-how and cooperate in fields such as sanitation, renewable energy and infrastructure development. Cooperation between Indian and Belgian universities is increasing. Scientific institutions from both countries are working together. For many years a wide range of people-to-people relations have been established. The warm support we have received from India after the recent events underlines our close ties.

Belgium looks forward to welcoming Modi.

Jan Luykx is the ambassador of Belgium to India

The views expressed are personal
More than a year after Pakistan unveiled its National Action Plan to tackle terrorism following a brutal massacre at a Peshawar school, the suicide attack at a crowded park in Lahore is evidence that the fight is far from over.

Sundays suicide bombing, which killed 70 people and injured another 340, has been claimed by the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Taliban which has been behind some of the most brutal attacks in Pakistan in recent years.

The groups spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan has said the attack targeted minority Christians, many of whom were at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park to celebrate Easter Sunday. The attack was also intended, Ehsan said, to send a message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore.

Read: Lahore: Suicide attack by Taliban faction targeting Christians kills 72

The Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which had once pledged allegiance to the Islamic State after splitting from the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan in 2014, has targeted Christians in Lahore in the past too. It had claimed two suicide blasts outside as many churches in the predominantly Christian neighbourhood of Youhanabad in March last year that killed 15 people.

While the Pakistan Army has made significant gains in its Zarb-e-Azb campaign against terrorist and extremist groups, Sundays attack has again highlighted the civilian governments failure to take on militant groups that have a presence in Punjab, Pakistans most populous province and the key stronghold of the ruling PML-N party.

The Jamaat-ul-Ahrar spokespersons reported remarks to the media  We want to convey to the ruling PML-N and the prime minister that we have arrived in Punjab and we will reach you  show up the seriousness of the problem.

Several militant groups, including the Taliban, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, have a strong presence in Punjab but they have mostly kept a low profile in the province in order to avoid being targeted by the security agencies.

At the same time, the PML-N has been loath to take on the militants for fears of a blowback.

Prime Minister Sharifs brother, Punjab chief minister Shahbaz Sharif, had during a televised speech in 2010 pleaded with the Taliban to spare his province because the PML-N and the militants had opposed former military dictator Pervez Musharraf. ...if the Taliban are also fighting for the same cause then they should not carry out acts of terror in Punjab, he had said.

Read: Weve entered Lahore: Militants message to Pak PM after suicide attack

There are also other problems bedevilling the PML-N government  since Sunday night, the heart of Islamabad has been besieged by thousands of supporters of a policeman who was recently executed for assassinating former governor Salmaan Taseer. The protestors have refused to disperse till the assassin  Mumtaz Qadri  is officially declared a martyr and Islamic law is imposed.

While the civilian government has been able to deploy thousands of troops in the sparsely populated northwest, especially the tribal belt, it is obvious that a similar approach cannot be adopted in the urban centres of Punjab. In such areas, operations would have to intelligence-driven and rely more on civilian law enforcement agencies.

Already, Pakistani social media users are commenting that the Lahore attack will, like the Peshawar massacre, be forgotten after a few days of angst. It remains to be seen whether Prime Minister Sharif will be galvanised by the latest terrorist outrage to taken on the militants in his backyard.

(The views expressed by the writer are personal. He tweets as @rezhasan)
They are neither migrants nor considered indigenous enough. Somewhere in between, the Assamese Sikhs are seeking reservation and a development council as recognition of their contribution to Assam.

But they are too small a voting force to attract political attention and too scattered across three assembly constituencies in central Assams Nagaon district to matter during elections.

The population of Assamese Sikhs is estimated to be 12,000, of whom 7,000 are voters. Barkola, 125km east of Guwahati, has the majority of them sharing space with nine indigenous communities. Assam has development councils for many communities, even for those who settled down in Assam after us. We hope the new government has us in mind for such a council for economic uplift, Pratap Singh, secretary of Assamese Sikh Association, said.

The Assam government allocates Rs 100 crore to each development council annually. The state has 20 such councils for as many indigenous and settler communities besides six tribal councils.

The Assamese Sikhs, mostly farmers in a floodprone area, could also do with reservation in higher education institutions for job security, Singh said. At 0.87% of Assams total population, we are a minority among minorities, but do not figure in schemes for minorities. What saddens the Assamese Sikhs is the political neglect that has added to years of identity crisis  they havent blended in while being considered too Assamese to be real Sikhs. Our forefathers were among 500 Sikh commandos Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab had sent to help Ahom king Chandrakanta Singh fight invaders in 1822. Very few survivors settled down, married local women and with time our link with Punjab was cut off, Barkoka village headman Jagya Singh, 78, said.

Durlav Samua, seeking re-election from Nagaon, has assured attention to the community this time. So has prime rival Rupak Sarmah, who hopes to cash on the BJPs bid to provide citizenship to non-Muslims, including Sikhs, facing persecution in neighbouring countries.

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Amitabh Bachchan replicated the stylish and suave spy James Bond for a magazine cover, which saw the megastar surrounded by a bevy of beauties. Bachchan, 74, said people of his age hardly get such opportunities.

There is a photo shoot early morning for a magazine where they intend to replicate a certain Mr Bond... Surrounded by a bevy of beauties which I may add seems far too incongruous than any situation... But what the heck... Lets face it... It is not too often that a 74-year-old shall get such opportunity... so INDULGE !!!, he posted on his blog.

The Piku star, who is active on social media, was awake till 4am to write the blog for his fans, whom he addresses as extended family (ef). Much to the disappointment of many Ef who, if I may say, have reached some conclusion that I have gone to sleep without putting out the Blog or the Twitter or the FB .. here I am .. alive and kicking at approximately 4 in the morning!.

Read: Amitabh Bachchan painted Delhi Pink and no one came to know

Not to disappoint people, he also shared one picture from the shoot. And, err, these were not the kind of beauties we were expecting. Check out James Bond Bachchan and his beauties in this picture...

So what do you think of Bachchan and his beauty?
Amitabh Bachchan won the best actor award for playing a hypochondriac father in Piku, while Kangana Ranaut scored her second consecutive best actress honour at the 63rd National Film Awards, where Hindi films won in major categories barring the top prize that went to Baahubali.

This is 73-year-old Bachchans fourth National award. He previously won the honour in 1990 for Agneepath, for Black in 2005 and for Paa 2009.

Baahubali emerged as the Best Film at the National Awards.

Ranaut, 28, won the award for her role in romantic comedy drama Tanu Weds Manu Returns for her endearing dual turn as Tanu, a troublesome wife and Haryanvi sportsperson Datto. It is her third trophy at the National Awards, having earlier won best supporting actress for Fashion and best actress for Queen last year.

The first part of SS Rajamoulis magnum opus Baahubali was announced as a surprise best feature film winner, even as last years much appreciated Masaan had to contend itself with just a best debut director award for Neeraj Ghaywan. Sharat Katariyas debut Dum Laga Ke Haisha, a 90s set drama in Haridwar about the romance between a mismatched couple, was named the best Hindi film.

Sweeping historical romance Bajirao Mastani helped its director Sanjay Leela Bhansali win the best director honour. Salman Khan-starrer cross-border drama Bajrangi Bhaijaan was named best popular film providing wholesome entertainment.

Best adapted screenplay honour went to Vishal Bhardwaj for real-life inspired crime drama Talvar, while the best original screenplay and dialogue was shared between Juhi Chaturvedi (Piku) and Himanshu Sharma (Tanu Weds Manu Returns).
Actor Randeep Hooda has proved his mettle in many films, so if he vouches for another actors skills, he is taken it seriously. This is how actor Meenakshi Dixit landed a role for her in their upcoming film. When the casting director asked his opinion on Dixits work, Hooda said, She is a fine actor and should be considered for the role most definitely.

Dixit, who made her Bollywood with P Se PM Tak (2014) and will be seen romancing Hooda in their next film, says it is a big deal that her work was appreciated by him. Its lovely to get recognised as an actor who is versatile. It makes things even more special when it comes from a established and seasoned actor like Randeep, says Dixit.

Watch: Trailer of Randeep Hoodas next Do Lafzon Ki Kahani

The actor, who has worked in multiple Tamil and Telugu films, cant stop raving about her co-star and labels him as the most supportive actor. Randeep is the most supportive actor I have worked with and he makes you feel so comfortable, that being new to the industry doesnt matter much, she adds.

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Actor Ajay Devgn, who was conferred the prestigious Padma Shri yesterday, says that hes proud to be the winner of such a prestigious award. Its a great honour to be recognised by the country. Its just not an award which is a film industry award. It makes you feel good about yourself and makes you realise that you are on the right track, he says.

The actor has always shown his disapproval for other industry awards, however, he says that the Padma Awards are very different. I have always maintained that there are so many awards happening in the film industry, those are not awards, they are just software for TV. Padma Awards are recognised by the country, which is why receiving them is a great honour for the recipients, he says.

Read: Katrina Kaifs Fitoors best kept secret is Ajay Devgn

Read: Rs 100cr films dont always make substantial profit, says Ajay

Ajay, who has just returned from a hectic shoot in Bulgaria, says that as of now he has no special plans to celebrate his win. His wife, actor Kajol and children - daughter Nysa (12) and son Yug (5) - will be coming to Mumbai soon. I have returned after three months and my family comes back home tonight. As of now, I dont have any special plans and plan to just sleep! he says.

During the time that the awards were announced, some people had claimed that only those close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi have been given the awards. However, Ajay says that he will not let such backlash dilute his victory. I think, for every award or for everything in life there is always a controversy and there are people who accept it and others criticise... To me, it doesnt matter. These people will always be there and you cant make everyone happy, he says.

Follow @htshowbiz for more.
Mid-2014 was a turbulent time for the Naresh Goyal-led Jet Airways, one of the countrys first private airlines.

Jet was bleeding heavily  it had posted a loss of Rs 3,667 crore in 2013-14, followed by a loss of Rs 217 crore in the April-June quarter of 2014-15.

Operationally, the airline was pursuing a complex business strategy  running a low-cost and a full-service carrier. It left customers unsure at times about what to expect on a Jet flight  whether the meal would be complimentary or they would have to pay for it.

The seat configuration wasnt uniform across the fleet  the number of business-class seats varied from 8 to 16  and it became an operational challenge for the management on how and where to deploy which aircraft.

It was in the middle of all this that Cramer Ball, a turnaround specialist heading Air Seychelles, was picked to lead Jet. We plan to reduce losses in 2015, consolidate in 2016 and turn profitable in 2017, Ball, who left Jet to join Italian airline Alitalia as its CEO last month, had said then.

With Jet posting a net profit of Rs 467.1 crore in the December 2015 quarter, the highest ever since the airlines inception, the turnaround strategy seems to be working faster than anticipated.

The first part of the turnaround strategy was to disband the low-cost model. A full-service brand across the business translated into a huge improvement in the corporate customer base, and led to higher yields.

The next step was to standardise the seat configuration on the domestic fleet with 12 business and 156 economy-class seats. It gave the airline the flexibility to use its aircraft both on domestic and international routes. We have generated additional capacity equivalent to nine B737s without any addition to the fleet, said Amit Agarwal, Jets acting CEO and chief financial officer.

Since the seat configuration was different (some planes have higher or a lower proportion of economy seats), we couldnt easily move one aircraft to another route. But now, an aircraft that operates a domestic service can be used across the network, Agarwal said.

Jets turnaround is visible from the quarterly results, said Kapil Kaul, South Asia CEO of aviation consultancy Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation.

Experts, however, feel Jet needs a strong and stable management for the turnaround to continue. Ball was the airlines fourth CEO since April 2013.

I remain concerned with instability at the top and its impact on Jets turnaround, Kaul said.

The airlines wholetime director, Gaurang Shetty, however, does not see much of an impact. An entity grows on its own. In every industry people leave and go.

TIE-UP WITH ETIHAD

The partnership with Etihad Airways, which picked a minority stake of 24% in Jet in 2013, also seems to have paid rich dividends. Jet, along with Etihad, has the largest share of international traffic from India.

A focus on joint contracts with Etihad, some 1,600 of them, has helped reduce costs. By combining the ground handling contracts with Etihad and partners we have been able to save $1.5 million in Bangkok alone. We apply that across the business, Ball told HT.

The strength with which you sit on the negotiating table is completely different... When we are buying the fuel alone for, lets say, 100 aircraft compared to at present when we sit with the strength of more than 650 aircraft with Etihad and its alliance partners, Agarwal added.

Many, however, believe the partnership with Etihad has reduced Jet to a feeder carrier  a regional airline that feeds into the broader network of a bigger airline.

Its all rubbish, Ball said.

INCREASING COMPETITION The competition in the business-class segment has grown with the entry of Vistara and expansion of other carriers.

However, Agarwal said: We offer a network no one else does. The corporate traveller believes in frequency.

The airline will need Goyal much more in the changing domestic aviation market, experts said. Its Goyals unmatched ability to adapt and change is what makes him so special, said Rajji Rai, chairman, Swift Travels.

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The government will not coerce companies like Vodafone Group and Cairn Energy to avail of its one-time offer to settle their retrospective tax cases and it was for them to take a call on it, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Sunday.

The option before such companies was either to accept the offer of paying principal tax amount and get waiver from interest and penalty, or continue litigation, he said during an interaction with journalists at the PTI office here.

This is an alternate route which I have suggested. The option is theirs. Nobody is being coerced to accept one route or the other, he said.

The government, he said, has no issues with companies not wanting to accept the offer and continue litigation. If they want to continue with the litigation, so be it... the outcome of the litigation will determine (the fate of tax demand).

Asked about the tax notices sent to Vodafone and Cairn last month despite the issue being under arbitration and government commitment not to create fresh demand using retrospective tax law, Jaitley said notice would go if there are pre-existing assessment orders.

You must accept one thing. That if there are pre- existing assessment orders in existence, obviously notices will go for those, unless those notices are stayed or stuck down.

And if the concerned officer doesnt even issue the notice, tomorrow some CAG or CBI will ask him why did he keep sitting on the file? Sending notices and enforcement of notice are two different things, he said.

UK oil explorer Cairn Energy is facing a tax demand of Rs 10,247 crore on alleged capital gains made in a 2006 business reorganisation it carried out in its India unit before getting it listed. The total tax due after including interest comes over Rs 29,000 crore.

British telecom giant Vodafone is also facing a total of Rs 14,200 crore in tax, interest and penalty over its USD 11-billion acquisition of 67 per cent stake in the mobile- phone business owned by Hutchison Whampoa in 2007.

Both the firms have disputed any tax was due and challenged the demands by initiating international arbitration.
At a time when the government seems determined to go ahead with financial sector reforms and consolidation of public sector banks, employees of the banks could throw a spanner in the works, with frequent strike calls by the unions.

The All India Bank Employees Association is planning to go on a days strike on May 25 to oppose the governments bank consolidation move, while IDBI bank employees are on strike from Monday in opposition of the finance ministrys decision to divest a stake in the bank.

Bank unions have promised that if the government does not meet them half-way, strikes could become more frequent and regular.

The unions have also opposed the governments proposal to go in for campus recruitment to fill up vacancies.

We will not allow the government to carry on the so-called reform exercise and consolidate public sector banks and we are planning to hold go on strike next month if things do not improve, CH Venkatachalam, general secretary, All-India Bank Employees Association, told HT.

Representatives of bank unions, along with CPI national secretary D Raja, met finance minister Arun Jaitley last week to discuss these issues. According to the unions, the focus should be on recovery of pending loans, and a probe should be constituted to fix accountability.

The government however is in no mood to buckle to pressure. A finance ministry official said the reforms process would be carried out, though he said all stakeholders -- including the banking unions -- would be consulted before any decision is taken.

Meanwhile, public sector banks have been asked to prepare a plan for raising capital from the market. They have also been directed to identify their non core assets which could be monetised to offset the heavy burden of bad debt.

The economic survey presented last month underlined the urgent need to address the challenge arising from the balance sheet problems of government banks. The survey prescribed recapitalisation to the tune of Rs 1.8 lakh crore by 2018-19 .

It also recommended the Four Rs -- recognition (banks must value their assets), recapitalisation (infusion of equity to safeguard the capital position), resolution (selling of stressed assets), and reforms in order to rule out similar problems cropping up in the future.

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People with forged e-tickets have emerged as the new threat to Delhi airport security with 30 such persons being arrested in the past 14 months.

The security at the Indira Gandhi International Airport is at maximum alert in the wake of the Brussels terror attack and multiple hoax bomb calls received almost daily.

The tickets are not checked at the entry gates and passengers only have to show a print-out along with an identification document. Most of those who were caught with forged tickets were nabbed when they were exiting the building. Many of them could not give convincing reasons for going out when stopped by the security personnel. It is then that their tickets were checked and found to be fake.

Officials said it is dangerous since a person is allowed to enter the airport building when he shows the e-ticket and an ID. Even the baggage is only cursorily checked at the entry point.

The Central Industry Security Force (CISF), the force responsible for airport security, said installation of PNR readers at the gate can reduce the risk as frisking is not possible.

Read | Delhi: Bomb threat to six flights at IGI airport, security scaled up

The machine may be installed at the entry gate instead of checking every e-ticket manually. The officer posted at the gate can check the ticket with the machine before allowing entry. This will ensure that nobody with an illegal ticket gain entry to the airport building, said a senior CISF official.

In 2015, 23 passengers were caught when they were going out of the airport. This year (till February 29) seven passengers have been caught. In 2014, 16 people were caught with fake e-tickets.

We were lucky that none of the 30 people were terrorists. We need to install PNR readers at the entry gate, the official said.

We conduct a random security check at the entry gate but will enhance it now, said a CISF official.

Only in Srinagar passengers are frisked at the entry gate.

Bomb call

Security was heightened on Sunday after a call was received that there were bombs in six flights. Earlier this week, five Jet Airways flights and 11 flights of Indigo were grounded following similar calls.

A hotel in Janakpuri received a call about bomb in six flights. The hotel staff informed the local police, which in turn informed the airport police. Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) was formed which termed the call as non-specific, said an airport official.

Airport sources said that the call was termed as non-specific as the caller had given random flight details while in previous cases, specific flight numbers were received. However, Jet Airways and Air India flights were searched as the caller had taken names of these airlines.

Read | No specialised CISF security cover at 27 sensitive airports: Report

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Her husbands obsessive love smothered her.

A few hours after Holi celebrations ended, 25-year-old aspiring model Priyanka Kapoor was found dead in her south Delhi apartment, hanging from the ceiling fan of her bedroom.

To marry him was the worst mistake of my life. The experience has been painful and I cannot take the beating anymore, read the one-page note left behind by Kapoor early Friday.

Nitin Chawla, arrested on charges of dowry death, virtually held his wife prisoner in their Defence Colony home, police said.

She was not allowed to go out and if she did  to meet friends over a cup of tea  she used to be beaten up.

She rarely saw her parents, though they lived in neighbouring Gurgaon. They remained in touch over phone. And, when the parents didnt hear from Kapoor on Holi, they got worried. They called her  she had two phone numbers  repeatedly but she was unreachable.

Worried, her mother called police and left for her daughters home. Around 12.30am on Friday, they were told that a woman had locked herself in a room, DCP (South) Prem Nath said. When a police team reached Kapoors home, her mother and Chawla were begging her to open the door.

She remained locked in for over 24 hours, refusing food. The team broke open the door  and saw Priyanka hanging from the ceiling fan, the DCP said. She was shifted to AIIMS, where she was declared dead.

There were fresh cut marks on her wrist, indicating she may have tried to bleed herself to death before the hanging, sources said.

During questioning, the 35-year-old Chawla, who owns pubs in Delhi and Chandigarh as well as a steel business, kept repeating he loved his wife very much, investigators told HT. He felt insecure about Kapoor meeting people and didnt want her to step out of the house.

Kapoor was Chawlas second wife, police said. He has a ten-year-old son and a daughter from his first marriage.

She was happy when she married but a few days later, Nitin started beating her up, Vijay, Kapoors friend, told HT. That man was obsessed. She once stepped out from her home for tea and Nitin thrashed her. He used to lock her up and beat her up for hours.

Chawla accepted assaulting his wife. He had to do it, as she was threatening to leave him, he told police. He wanted the custody of his son and wanted Kapoor to raise him.

Kapoor was not ready. He said he wanted Priyanka to be a good housewife and always remain in the house, in front of his eyes, a police source said. She was outgoing, career-oriented and had many friends but Chawla didnt approve of it, the source said.

Chaw lat old police he couldnt afford the rent of their apartment and wanted to move to his Meera Bagh residence with his parents but Kapoor refused. It led to an argument on Thursday, and he hit her when she threatened to leave.

Police have registered a case of dowry death and domestic violence against Chawla on the complaint of Priyankas sister Dimpy.

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The Arvind Kejriwal-led government on Monday allocated Rs 10,690 crore --- 22.9% of the total budget outlay for 2016-17 --- to the education sector by focusing on training programmes and physical infrastructure.

Last year, the Aam Aadmi Party government had allocated Rs 9,836 crore for the education sector out of which Rs 4,570 crore was under the plan outlay. This years total budget is Rs 46,600 crore.

Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia, who holds the education portfolio, announced that the government is focusing on three things in the education sector, including infrastructure development and teachers training.

The budget has made provisions for sending school teachers and principals to Oxford and Cambridge universities for special training.

Sisodia announced that every classroom in government schools will have a CCTV camera which can be monitored by teachers and parents and allocated Rs 100 crore for the purpose.

Parents will be able to see the recordings on their mobiles and know what their kids are doing in school. For CCTV we are giving Rs 100 crore, he said in his budget speech.

Read: Delhi budget highlights: VAT on sweets, readymade cloths reduced to 5%

The deputy CM also said that 21 new schools are ready for use in the national capital.

If we run these 21 buildings in two shifts we have 42 new schools. We have also built 8,000 new classrooms which is equivalent to 200 schools and we run them in double shift then it is 400 schools. So, we have a total of 442 schools, Sisodia said.

The government has decided it will not send any teacher for census duty anymore, Sisodia announced.

We want teachers and principal to focus on teachings. So, we have decided no teacher will be sent for census duty. Every school building has estate manager so that principal can focus on studies, he said.

The education minister said the government is working on opening new universities and technical institutes. He added that 9,623 new posts for government school teachers have been approved.

We have started two new ITIs and three other it is along with five polytechnics to be made soon, he said.

The government has also allocated Rs 152 crore for skill training in schools.
Deputy CM Manish Sisodia said a safe and efficient public transport system is the backbone of any urban economy. He, however, did not mention how Delhi government failed to purchase a single bus to boost public transport last year.

In the last budget, the government had promised to procure 1,380 semi-low floor buses, 500 mini buses for DTC and another 1,000 buses under the cluster scheme.

Though that plan was shelved, the government has now proposed to procure 3,000 buses  1,000 under cluster scheme, 1,000 non-ac under DTC and 1,000 premium buses under public private partnership. The government is committed to provide a robust, sustainable, safe, accessible, integrated, multi-modal public transport system, said Sisodia.

DTC has 4,461 buses which include 3,781 low-floor buses and 680 standard floor buses. About 1,490 cluster buses are operational. Our government will also introduce 1,000 buses in the premium category through a purely market- driven model to encourage the financially well-off to use public transport. To accommodate these new buses, bus depots will be developed at Rewla Khanpur, Dichaun Kalan, Karkari Nahar, Bawana Sector-1 and Dwarka Sector-22. `325 crore for purchase of buses and development of bus terminals has been proposed, he added.

The government also plans to renovate bus terminals at Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar with world-class passenger amenities and a new ISBT at Dwarka is also proposed. About 1,397 new Bus Queue Shelters are proposed to be constructed under PPP mode but the government had made the same promise in the last budget.

The government has also increased the one-time fixed subsidy for e-rickshaw from existing `15,000 to `30,000. Electric vehicles have been exempted from road tax.
Jawaharlal Nehru University students union president Kanhaiya Kumar on Monday compared the alleged onslaught on varsities with Gujarat riots alleging both of them were carried out with support from state machinery.

The student leader, accused of sedition in connection with an event on JNU campus, said there is a fundamental difference between emergency and fascism.

Asserting that there is a difference between 2002 riots and 1984 Sikh massacre. Kanhaiya alleged that Gujarat violence was carried out through state machinery while the other was caused due to mob frenzy.

There is difference between emergency and fascism. During emergency, goons of only one party were engaged into goondaism, in this (fascism) entire state machinery is resorting to goondaism. There is difference between riots of 2002 and 1984 Sikh riots, he said.

There is a fundamental difference between a mob killing a common man and massacring people through state machinery. Therefore, the threat of communal fascism we are faced with today, there is an attack being launched on universities, because like Hitler, Modi-ji doesnt have support from intellectuals in India. No intellectual is defending Modi regime, Kanhaiya, a member of Leftist All India Students Federation, said.

Today its an era of Islamophobia. Leave aside the words of terrorism and terrorist. The moment these words will come to your mind, imprints of face of a Muslim person will be there in your mind. This is Islamophobia, the student leader said.

Connotations, meaning of a word change. Hence, it is important for us to understand history before we reach conclusions, he said.

Kanhaiya was addressing the gathering during a panel discussion on Voices of Azaadi during the Jashne-e-azaadi festival which organised to celebrate the birth anniversary of the late historian Professor Bipan Chandra.

The celebration comes at a time when JNU students have kickstarted a nationalism and azaadi debate across the country after it came under attack for an event on campus against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru during which anti-national slogans were allegedly raised.

Kanhaiya and two more students-Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya  were arrested in a sedition case over the event and are out on bail now.

Umar said though they have been released from the confines of Tihar jail but they continue to face threats. A very dangerous situation is unfolding before our eyes for

all of us. Today also I read a news report which said before April 8, some person will come to JNU and shoot down me and Kanhaiya.
People who knew Priyanka Kapoor Chawla, a 25-year-old aspiring model who allegedly committed suicide, find it hard to believe that a woman who knew half of Delhi would take such a step.

Priyankas acquaintances say she appeared happy, though they feel her marriage changed things.

Priyanka was a bubbly, cheerful girl. She was a very friendly person who knew half of Delhi because it was also the nature of her job. But after her marriage, or, in fact, when she started dating Nitin (Chawla, her husband), she became a different person. She became a recluse, stayed at home, wouldnt meet people. She stopped coming on Facebook and even changed her number, says Tehrima Zaki, who worked with Priyanka while organising various events.

Priyanka Kapoor and her husband tie the knot. (HT Photo)

Read: Husband who promised to keep Delhi model happy beat her mercilessly

Ramneek Pantal, who runs a wedding-planning company, says: I knew her socially. We ran into each other at so many parties. On social media we commented on each others posts. I even congratulated her on her wedding. She came across as such a happy person. And when I got to know about the unfortunate incident, I was shocked.

You know, one could never tell that such a happy-looking person was unhappy to the extent of taking her own life, says Pantal.

When asked if she met Priyanka after the latter got married, Pantal says: Actually no. I remember because I would have congratulated her in person but it was only on social media that I congratulated her.

A few hours after Holi celebrations ended, Priyanka was found dead in her south Delhi apartment, hanging from the ceiling fan of her bedroom. Nitin, 40, who has been arrested in the case, virtually held his wife prisoner in their home, police said.

Apparently, Priyankas social nature didnt go down well with her husband.

She was the life of parties and had a lot of male friends. And that made the husband uncomfortable, which actually is strange because he knew about all this before they started dating! Once they started dating, he called me up and said that he didnt want his girlfriend to work. I was surprised, says Zaki.

According to Zaki, Priyanka went to Cambridge School in Srinivaspuri and did her Bachelors in Arts from Delhi Universitys Open School of Learning.

Priyanka had reportedly shifted to Delhi from Chandigarh. She lived with her parents and her younger sister in Lajpat Nagar before tying the knot.

Priyanka was even thinking of relocating to Chandigarh, confirms a friend on condition of anonymity.

She had confessed to our common friend that there were problems in the marriage and she was thinking of shifting to Chandigarh, thats originally where her family was from. She was thinking of starting a Pranic healing and Reiki centre.

Priyanka liked an affluent lifestyle, she loved partying and going on holidays. She demanded a lot of expensive gifts too. He tried to keep her happy. But he also wanted her to stay at home, stop partying and drop some male friends. That made her claustrophobic. She had wanted to become a model but hadnt done anything major in terms of modeling, and Nitin had clearly told her to drop that dream too, the friend says.

Nitin Chawla, Priyankas husband, has been sent to judicial custody. (HT Photo)

At the same time, a close friend of Nitin who owns a pub, says: Nitin is a nice guy. He was crazily in love with her. Recently, he had gifted her a car and they had just come back from a road trip to Ajmer. I am shocked to know that he is being blamed for the entire thing. I was aware that she liked an affluent lifestyle and he tried hard to please her, but guess she wanted more.

Nitin has two kids --- a daughter and a son --- from his first wife. He did his schooling from New Era Public School, Mayapuri.

Read: Cant take the beating anymore: Model kills self, husband arrested

Nitins brother, Jatin, is also surprised that his sister-in-law would take such a step.

I am suffering from depression for some years. I am not usually too involved in anyones life. And to us they were a happy couple and we didnt interfere in their lives. I was in the hospital until very recently, so I dont know if something major happened. Otherwise, we knew them as a happy couple.

I stay with my parents in Meera Bagh. He stayed in Defence Colony after his marriage. And Nitin had divorced his (first) wife on an amicable note. Although, I do remember that Nitins son from his first wife had come to stay with him for some time, and Priyankas mom had called up my mother to say that Priyanka wasnt happy about it. As for this incident (suicide)...usney pehle bhi aisa kuch kiya tha. Drug overdose ke liye woh hospitalised hui thi and Nitin ne Rs 70,000 ka bill bhara tha. Right now, we are trying to come to terms with the whole thing, Jatin says.

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Be it highlighting the features of a new governance model or making the Jumla jibe against the BJP government at the Centre, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodias speech was full of political connotations.

Delivering his second full budget in Delhi assembly on Monday, Sisodia liberally quoted Mahatma Gandhi, former American president Franklin Roosevelt, and Enrique Penelosa, the mayor of Bogota, to outline the governance blueprint of the AAP government, which is to focus on optimum utilisation of resources, honesty and sincerity in use of public money, participation of people and extent of benefits to citizens at large.

The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little, Sisodia quoted former American president, Franklin D Roosevelt.

Sisodias mention of chief minister Arvind Kejriwal being the only Indian politician to find mention in Fortune magazine drew the loudest of applause from the treasury benches including Kejriwal.

Giving full credit to Kejriwal for Delhis progress in the last one year, he quoted the CM from his first political speech: Today, every citizen of Delhi has become a chief minister.

Hitting out at the BJP government at the Centre, Sisodia said, Unlike other political parties, which after winning the election declare their manifesto promises as mere jumla, we consider it is a solemn pledge.

With education given a top billing in the budget, with Rs 10,6900 crore or nearly a quarter of the outlay set aside to the sector, Sisodia criticised the Centre for ignoring the crucial area.

Focus of other governments has been to promote private schools and colleges because several of them are owned by politicians. Unlike other political parties, the AAP government is committed to its promise of making government schools better than the private schools, Sisodia said.

Successful implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme and praise for the public health system by the western media also found mention in the budget speech that lasted for two hours. Till now everybody professed about the western model of development. Now, American journalists are recommending the Delhi model to revamp their public health system, Sisodia said.

He concluded his speech quoting Mahatma Gandhi: I should love to satisfy all, if I possibly can; but in trying to satisfy all, I may be able to satisfy none. I have, therefore, arrived at the conclusion that the best course is to satisfy ones own conscience and leave the world to form its own judgment, favourable or otherwise.
The Arvind Kejriwal government sought to fuse Delhis smart city ambitions with broader goals of creating opportunities for the underprivileged in a Rs 46,600-crore budget on Monday that made goods such as garments, shoes, school bags, sweets and namkeens cheaper.

Delhi finance minister and deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia gave top billing in his 2016-17 budget to education, setting aside Rs 10,690 crore, or nearly a quarter of the outlay, for a raft of initiatives, including sending teachers to train at Harvard, Cambridge and Oxford universities, besides creating additional infrastructure.

Health, social welfare, security, slum development and public transport received major attention, mirroring the governments intent to walk the talk on maintaining steadfast focus on the bottom half of the income ladder, while turning the city into a metropolis that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with world capitals.

While Sisodia, who quoted Roosevelt and Mahatma Gandhi, proposed a Bureau of Affordable Meals to set up Aam Aadmi Canteens for rickshaw-pullers and daily wage earners, he also announced the introduction of a premium bus service for the financially well-off.

No new taxes were introduced, but value-added taxes (VAT) were cut in a string of products that would make readymade garments, budget hotels and watches above Rs 5,000 cheaper.

HT reported on Monday about the governments plans to cut VAT on these products.

We dont want to develop Delhi as a smart city only for a part of Delhi, or for a special group of people, Sisodia said.

We will tirelessly work to chisel this vision by enhancing peoples wellbeing across class, caste, religion and generations by improving their choices in health, education, income, expenditure, ensuring their freedom and providing opportunities for meaningful participation in society.

Sisodias tax policies had a subtle political message as he looked to make rules easier for Delhis trading community, traditionally seen as a core BJP support base.

The moves were intended to draw more customers to the national capitals markets and malls from neighbouring Noida and Gurgaon.

Sisodia took a dig the BJP stating the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) promises were not jumla (political rhetoric) but a solemn pledge.

Our government is fully committed to reducing tax arbitrage and will attempt to keep a uniform rate with neighbouring states, he said. For instance, the move to cut VAT on readymade garments to 5% is primarily aimed at making the levy identical with UP and Haryana, he said.

Likewise, VAT on marble has been cut to 5% from 12.5% based on the Delhis Marble Trade Associations recommendation to lower the rate to encourage people to buy marble from the Capital only.

Besides announcing some big-ticket ideas such as exploring construction of two elevated bus rapid transport (BRT) corridors, Sisodia pledged to provide road and drainage in all the unauthorised colonies by this year-end.

The world used to talk about the western model of development. Now American journalists are recommending their country need to follow the Delhi model to revamp their public health system. One thousand mohalla clinics by the end of this year means taking public health to every doorstep, chief minister Kejriwal told reporters after the budget, patting his governments three-tier public health system  that consists of mohalla clinics, poly clinics and super-specialty hospitals.

The government has finalised a Health Information Management System (HIMS), including a health card for citizens with a unique identifier to ensure seamless patient information.

Kejriwal said tax rationalistaion is part of the AAP governments commitment to bring down VAT rates to the lowest in the country in five years.

The city government has decided to continue the 50% power subsidy up to 400 units and free 20,000 litre water to every household that was implemented after the AAP rode to power in 2015.

Sisodia announced extension of the scheme under which development charge was reduced to install water meters, to July 2017.

He unveiled an ambitious plan of bringing every household in the city on the piped drinking water map by December 2017. Reiterating the commitment of the government to wipe out the water tanker mafia, the finance minister allocated Rs 676 crore for providing piped water in 300 new colonies during the next fiscal.

Willing to take participatory budgeting to all assembly constituencies, Rs 5 crore has been allocated to each of the 70 assembly seats. But the amount is lesser than Rs 20 crore allocated to each of the 11 assembly seats included in the pilot project last year.

Kejriwal said Rs 4 crore from the MLA LAD fund would be used for development work through the 3,000 mohalla sabhas.

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The Delhi government presented on Monday a tax-free budget and rationalised the VAT structure which may reduce the cost of products such as readymade garments, shoes, watches and electric and hybrid vehicles.

Manish Sisodia, deputy chief minister of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, presented a Rs 46,600-crore annual budget for 2016-17, pegging the plan outlay at Rs 20,600 crore.

The government is committed to reducing tax arbitrage and will attempt to keep a uniform rate with neighbouring states. In several items such as sweets  namkeen, watches, readymade garments, lower tax rate in neighbouring states was causing erosion in the same, he said.

Delhi has registered a growth of 17% in 2015-16, he said, stressing the government believed in the idea of ease of doing business.

Read: Delhi budget: CCTVs in every classroom as AAP govt focuses on education

Here are the highlights

1) The government proposed to reduce VAT on a slew of products including sweets, namkeens and readymade garments from 12.5 to 5%. The government proposed reducing that VAT on watches costing above Rs. 5,000 from 20% to 12.5%. Sisodia said that VAT on battery operated e-rickshaws, hybrid vehicles has been proposed to be reduced from 12.5% to%.

2) Education, health and transport sectors get the lions share of allocation.

3) Rs 10,690 crore was earmarked for education, a rise of 8.68% over last year. Of this, Rs 4,645 crore is for plan expenditure (23%), highest among all the heads. Sisodia said 21 school buildings have been constructed while 8,000 new classrooms are being built. It equals to the infrastructure of 200 schools. He said every classroom will have CCTV cameras installed.

4) The budget proposed to provide drinking water to all authorised and unauthorised colonies by December 2017 through pipelines. Sisodia set aside an amount of Rs 676 crore in this regard.

5) The government alloted Rs 5,250 crore which forms 16% of the total expenditure, against last years allocation of Rs 4787 crore.

6) The transport sector emerged as another priority area with around Rs 1,735 crore being allocated. An amount of Rs 10 crore has been alloted for the construction of Aam Aadmi Canteens.

7) Rs 6,919 crore have been provided to the three civic bodies in the budget. We hope the amount will be spent wisely, Sisodia said.

8) The Gross State Domestic Product of Delhi at current prices is likely to increase to Rs 5,58,745 crore in 2015-16 from Rs 4,94,460 crore in 2014-15, indicating a growth of 13%.

9) Rs 1,068 crore was alloted for womens safety, security and empowerment, while Rs 1,381 crore was set aside for social security and welfare schemes.

10) Extending the Mohalla Sabha Scheme to all the Constituencies, Sisodia announced Rs 350 crore allocation in 2016-17 for the Citizen Local Area Development (CLAD) scheme.

11) Sisodia allocated Rs. 100 crore for delivering basic amenities to jhuggi bastis, while art, culture and language will get a boost by an expenditure of Rs 54 crore.

(With agency inputs)
More than 4,500 anganwadis out of the nearly 53,000 in Gujarat do not have drinking water, and over 5,600 of lack even a basic toilet, according to state government statistics.

The tribal districts of Panchmahal, Mahisagar and Dahod have maximum number of anganwadis which lack basic facilities.

In Panchmahal/Mahisagar, referred to as a single unit, 1,411 centres are still running without drinking water facility, followed by 939 in Vadodara/Chhota Udepur and 599 in Valsad.

Dahod district has the maximum 808 anganwadis not having toilet facility, followed by 586 in Valsad and 562 in Panchmahal/Mahisagar.

Out of the 26 district-units, data tabled in the state Assembly suggested that barring Kutch, all other districts have anganwadis running without toilet facilities.

Out of 26 district-units, 10 have centres which do not having drinking water facility.

The drinking water facility was available at all anganwadis in the remaining 16 district units, as per the data tabled in the Assembly, in response to a query raised by Congress MLA Tejashreeben Patel during the ongoing Budget session.
Uttarakhand assembly speaker Govind Singh Kunjwals decision to disqualify nine rebel Congress MLAs is likely to hurt the party more as the BJP is now the single largest party in the House.

After the rebels disqualification, the strength of the Congress -- which had 36 MLAs in the 70-member House  stands reduced to 27, one less than that of the BJP which has 28 MLAs including a saffron rebel.

Going by convention, governor KK Paul will have to invite the BJP legislature party leader in any future exercise for the formation of new government.

The effective strength of the House comes down to 61 and any political grouping will require the support of at least 32 MLAs to form a government.

Read: Uttarakhand crisis: Vijayvargiyas aggression made the difference

Earlier, the Congress had the support of one Uttarakhand Kranti Dal, three independent, and two Bahujan Samaj Party MLAs. The BJP had claimed the support of a BSP MLA.

But in the changed political scenario, the BJP gets more time to win over the support of independent MLAs and those belonging to Uttarakhand Kranti Dal and BSP.

Disqualification under anti-defection law

According to paragraph 2(1)(a) of the 10th Schedule of the Constitution, a member can be disqualified if he/she voluntarily gives up membership of a party or when he/she votes (or abstains from voting) contrary to the directive issued by the party (paragraph 2(1)(b)).

In the 1994 Ravi Naik vs. Union of India case, the Supreme Court said, Even in the absence of a formal resignation from membership, an inference can be drawn from the conduct of a member that he has voluntarily given up his membership of the political party to which he belongs.

If the conduct of Congress rebels is observed in the context of the anti-defection law and the SC ruling in Ravi Naiks case, it can be concluded that they have voluntarily given up their membership of the party.

The speaker has already disqualified the rebel Congress MLAs and the matter is now likely to go to the court. But unless the rebel MLAs disqualification is revoked, Congress remains number 2 in the House.

Read: Uttarakhand crisis: Modi govt aping Congress to steamroll it

Parliament has to approve Presidents rule

Once Presidents Rule is imposed, the assembly ceases to function and the state comes under the central governments direct control.

The assembly has been kept in suspended animation. The powers of the state assembly become exercisable by or under the authority of Parliament. The executive power shifts from the council of ministers to the governor.

But Presidents Rule must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within a period of two months. It cant last for more than six months unless its extension is approved by Parliament.

The only other way Presidents rule can go is a court order. Uttarakhand Congress on Monday moved to the state high court at Nainital against imposition of Presidents Rule in the state.

What if Presidents rule is not approved by Parliament?

In SR Bommais case (1994), the Supreme Court said in case both Houses of Parliament do not approve president rule, the proclamation would lapse after two months. In such a situation, the dismissed government gets revives and the Legislative Assembly kept in suspended animation gets reactivated.

However, if Presidents rule is approved by both Houses of Parliament within two months, the dismissed Government does not get revived on the expiry of period of Proclamation or on its revocation, the SC had said.

Similarly, if the Assembly has been dissolved after the approval under Article 356(3), it does not get revived on the expiry of the period of Proclamation or on its revocation, the SC had clarified.

Advantage BJP

Since the BJP does not have a majority in the Rajya Sabha, its highly unlikely that imposition of Presidents rule in Uttarakhand will get Parliamentary approval as required under Article 356(3) of the Constitution.

But at this juncture it appears advantage for BJP as the saffron party has got enough time to garner support of independent MLAs and smaller parties in the House.

Read: Prez rule in Uttarakhand: Governors report on sting op tilted scales
An Air India flight from Hyderabad made an emergency landing after smoke was detected emanating from its undercarriage in Mumbai on Monday morning, official sources said.

The flight AI-620 had 120 passengers on board who were immediately evacuated by deploying chutes from the aircraft.

The prompt measures by the concerned authorities prevented a potential disaster and the plane was towed away for repairs.

An Air India spokesperson said as the flight was taxiing towards the bay after landing, the pilot suspected smoke emanating from the engine. Immediately, the pilot called for emergency evacuation and chutes were deployed to move passengers and crew out of the plane

According to him, on preliminary inspection of the aircraft no problem was detected in the engine or the landing gear. Tyre burst has also been ruled out, he added. Further inspection is on to ascertain the reason that led to the emergency evacuation.

The main runway of the airport was shut after the incident, which caused heavy congestion.

Due to the main runway closure, all the arrivals and departures at the Mumbai Airport are delayed by 30 minutes.
There seems to be more trouble in store for self-proclaimed godman, Asaram.

Karthik alias Raju Dulachand Haider who was nabbed by Gujarat ATS on the charge of killing three prime witnesses in Asaram case, has spilled the beans. Sources said Karthik told the cops that he executed the killings at the godmans behest.

The aides of Asaram supplied the weapon to Karthik and arranged safe hideouts after the killing.

SSP, Muzaffarnagar, KB Singh said, A team of Muzaffarnagar police visited Ahmedabad to interrogate Karthik and he provided some important clues regarding the murder of eye witness Akhil Gupta. The police are working on the leads.

Karthik told the cops that Neeraj, an employee in the Nandgaon ashram of Asaram and three other aides of the godman, including Tamraj, Balbir (a resident of West Bengal) and Suraj alias Ankit (a resident of Sitapur) accompanied him for Akhils murder.

I rented a room near Akhils shop to monitor his activities and after the murder we took shelter in Nandgaon ashram, he said.

The Shahjhanpur police will also grill Karthik soon. Recently, the Gujarat police arrested Karthik who killed three key witnesses in Asaram case.

Two witnesses Kripal Singh and Akhil Gupta were shot dead in Shahjhanpur and Muzaffarnagar district respectively.

A police officer said Kripal Singh, 35, was witness in the rape case against Asaram.

Two motorcycle-borne assailants shot him dead while he was on his way home in July 2015.

Singh was an employee of the transport company and his daughter had lodged an FIR against Asaram.

A cook and aide of Asaram, Akhil Gupta was shot dead near his home in Muzaffarnagar in January 2015.

Earlier, another witness Amrut Prajapati, a former aide of Asaram, was shot dead in Rajkot (Gujarat) in June, 2014.

Read: Followers paid shooter Rs 25 lakh to kill Asaram case witnesses: Police
A Hyderabad court on Monday granted bail to 27 people who were arrested for a violent protest against the vice-chancellor of University of Hyderabad last week.

The court granted 25 students and two faculty members bail on a one-time surety of Rs 5,000 each and directed them to appear before a police station once a week. They were booked on charges of rioting and voluntarily causing hurt to deter a public servant from his duty, among others.

Hundreds of students of the institute have launched a campaign demanding V-C Appa Rao Podiles immediate removal and his arrest for his alleged role in the suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula, as a debate raged over caste discrimination.

Read: Rohith Vemula: An unfinished portrait

The V-C came back to the university on March 22 after a two-month leave and a group of students allegedly ransacked his office to protest his return. Video clips showed police dragging students demonstrating peacefully outside Appa Raos residence.

Some protesters were injured after the police beat them up with batons and several of them were hospitalised. Students also alleged that the policemen had threatened to rape women students.

Earlier in the day, fresh protests erupted against the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the vice-chancellor. In the face of the demonstrations, classes have been suspended until March 27.

Rao inaugurated an international conference on physics amid heavy security despite the stir.

Research scholar Vemula, whose death has triggered a nationwide outrage, was among five Dalit students suspended by the institute following allegations of assault on a leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a right-wing students body.

After his death on January 17, critics alleged that the HRD ministry pushed for the students to be punished by sending five reminders to the vice-chancellor after Union labour minister Bandaru Dattatreya complained to Smriti Iranis department.

Read: Kanhaiya barred from entering Hyderabad univ, will struggle for Rohith
Two Kolkata Police personnel were suspended on Monday for allegedly trying to bribe BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha, prompting the saffron party to accuse the Trinamool Congress of trying to trap opponents a week before assembly polls.

Subhasish Raychaudhuri  an 52-year-old assistant sub inspector and Aminur Rahaman , a 25-year-old constable with Kolkata Polices special branch  allegedly offered a huge amount to Sinha for buying access across the India-Bangladesh border to smuggle cattle.

Sinha made them wait and informed officers of the Jorasanko police station. Policemen took them away in a few minutes and have started departmental proceedings against the duo.

Read: Bengal: BJP mum on Narada tapes, allege Congress, Left

This was an attempt by the ruling Trinamool Congress to conduct a sting operation like Narada. The party that controls the police is behind this conspiracy. Stung by Narada, Trinamool leaders are stooping to this level, said Sinha.

The dramatic incident is likely to further embarrass the Trinamool Congress that is battling a sting operation by website Naradanews.com that purportedly showed 13 party leaders accept cash bribes to lobby for a fictitious company.

Opposition parties say the allegations have dented the clean image claimed by chief minister Mamata Banerjee and are set to make it a major poll issue.

Banerjee also holds the police portfolio.

It has to be proved that the chief minister is not behind the incident, Sinha said and demanded a CBI inquiry.

The BJP said it informed the election commission about the incident. They offered me lots of money to ensure smooth smuggling of cows. I held them by their collars and slapped them, Sinha added.

Police officers are interrogating the duo and have ordered a probe into the incident.

It appears they went to further their personal objectives. We have suspended both. The complaint had no grounds for cognisable offence and therefore, we did not start any criminal proceedings, said Supratim Sarkar, joint commissioner of police, headquarters.

Read: Bengal: Narada sting operation delivers poetic justice to former MLA

They will get exemplary punishment, including, sacking, if that probe finds them guilty.

The Trinamool is locked into a poll battle with an informal Left-Congress alliance and the BJP for the 294-member assembly.

During the present process of elections, it clearly indicates the above incident is part of a conspiracy to malign Rahul Sinha and also the state BJP, state vice-president Jaiprakash Majumdar said.

The attempt comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised the Trinamool for the multiple corruption allegations, ranging from the Narada scandal to the multi-crore Saradha scam.

How can they claim for everything good and try to heap blame for everything deplorable? said Trinamool secretary general Partha Chatterjee.

The special branch of Kolkata police is expected to gather confidential information regarding various issues of the state, apart from VVIP movement and security. However, ruling parties are known to use them to gather information about political opponents and dissenters.

Cattle smuggling is one of the most politically volatile problems in West Bengal. According to estimates, about 1.7-1.8 million cattle are smuggled through the India-Bangladesh border every year, especially in the North 24 Parganas, Nadia and Murshidabad districts.

Increased vigil by the Border Security Force has led to a sharp dip in the incidents of smuggling. BJP and all non-political saffron outfits campaign against cattle smuggling and have formed vigilante groups to check the movement of trucks along border areas.
The Centre imposed Presidents Rule on Sunday in politically fragile Uttarakhand while citing a constitutional breakdown, a day before the states Congress-led government was slated to prove its majority in the assembly.

The decision sparked a political storm, with the rebellion-hit Congress calling it murder of democracy and pointing to a pattern after the partys government in Arunachal Pradesh was toppled this year by what it termed sheer abuse of power and money.

On Saturday evening, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his Assam poll tour for a Cabinet meeting that recommended Presidents Rule after considering governor KK Pauls reports on a sting operation against chief minister Harish Rawat and allegations that he indulged in horse-trading to save his government.

It wasnt clear whether the sting video, dubbed fake by Rawat, was forensically examined.

Finance minister Arun Jaitley drove down to Rashtrapati Bhavan soon after the meeting to convey the rationale of the Cabinet decision to President Pranab Mukherjee, who signed the proclamation under Article 356 of the Constitution.

BJP leaders said they may try to form the government if they get a go-ahead from the partys central parliamentary board, while the Congress announced that it will challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.

Modiji dont let your love of power overrule ppls mandate. @INCIndia is ready-fight elections, seek ppls mandate, dont usurp their right, tweeted Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi while taking a dig at the Prime Minister.

The Centre justified the decision, saying the state government was unconstitutional and immoral since it lost majority in the assembly on March 18.

Amid attacks by Congress leaders on the BJP, former union law minister Veerappa Moily questioned the Presidents stand, asking whether he should be a rubber stamp or act in the spirit of the Indian Constitution. He is bound by the Constitution of India. He is bound by the Supreme Court verdicts, he said.

Constitutional experts could not recall any precedent of a government being shown the door on the eve of a floor test authorised by the governor.

The Rawat government plunged into a constitutional crisis this month when nine party MLAs rebelled against the chief minister and threatened to take power with support from the BJP.

Moily alluded to a 1994 Supreme Court verdict in the SR Bommai case involving a similar defection issue in Karnataka when the court fixed the assembly floor as the only platform for testing a governments strength.

Former Lok Sabha secretary general PDT Acharya said the court must determine whether a sting operation can be a relevant factor in dismissing a government.

The Congress came to power in Uttarakhand in 2012. Vijay Bahuguna, who is leading the rebellion, was then the chief minister. He was replaced by Rawat two years ago over allegations that he mishandled relief and rebuilding operations following the devastating floods that hit the state in 2013.

The Congress had 36 MLAs in the 70-member House before nine of them rebelled.

Backing the Presidents Rule, union finance minister Arun Jaitley said provisions of the Constitution were murdered every day in the state for the last nine days. Citing the state as a textbook example of breakdown of governance, he said, Everything that can go wrong with constitutional functioning has happened in Uttarakhand.

He also referred to the passage of the finance bill in the assembly, when the rebel Congress MLAs voted with the BJP.

It has never happened in the history of India that a defeated bill was considered to be passed, he said.

The governors initial decision to give Rawat 10 days to prove his majority after the controversial passage of the money bill on March 18 had come under attack from the BJP, particularly its general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, who is in charge of the party in the state.

Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal has disqualified the rebel Congress legislators under the anti-defection law, bringing down the effective strength of the assembly to 61.

Congress leader Kapil Sibal announced that his party will go to the Supreme Court. They did this in Arunachal Pradesh. (After) doing this Uttarakhand I have information that they will try it in Manipur, he added.

His party colleague Ambika Soni, who looks after the Uttarakhand unit, said, The real desire of the NDA is to bring down duly-elected governments of small states in an undemocratic and unconstitutional manner.

Party spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi called it murder of democracy while others said the government would have proved its majority in the House.

Rawat said the BJP was thirsty for his blood right from the day he assumed office and also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Centre is targeting a small state. Where is the cooperative federalism of Prime Minister Modi? The BJP is trying to degrade the established institutions in the states, he said.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Monday asked the organisations cadre to refrain from forcing people to chant the Bharat Mata ki Jai slogan.

Our conduct should be such that people must chant the slogan on their own. It has to come from within, Bhagwat said while dedicating the historical Smriti Bhawan in Lucknow to the people. It was at this building that the BJPs previous avatar, the Bharatiya Jan Sangh, was set up in 1951.

Read: Want the whole world to chant Bharat Mata ki Jai: RSS chief Bhagwat

He spoke on the concept of taking the sarva samaj (entire society) along, and hinted that chanting nationalistic slogans should be a voluntary  not a mandatory  exercise. Everyone is our own, and we have to take everyone along, the RSS chief said.

This, however, seemed to be at odds with a statement Bhagwat made in Kolkata on Sunday, wherein he expressed the RSSs desire to make the whole world chant the slogan. He had gone on to say that a separate country (referring to Pakistan) had been carved out for people who did not want to stand with the qualities of Bharat.

Read: India is more nationalistic than Bharat Mata

RSS leader Prabhu Narain confirmed the idea behind Bhagwats words. The sarsanghchalakji made it clear that the slogan shouldnt be forced on anyone. It should be a voluntary sentiment  something that comes from within. He wanted us to lead by example, through impeccable conduct and total dedication to the cause of the motherland, he said.

Read: Not shouting a slogan is also part of freedom of expression: Owaisi

Bhagwats statement came on a day when All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi was also in the state capital. Owaisi had earlier said that he wouldnt chant the slogan even if a knife was held to his throat.

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The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state-level executive committee meeting on Sunday did not bring any resolution on the proposed Jat reservation bill and skipped discussion over the issue.

The state government is expected to bring the bill in the current assembly session and the issue has divided the BJP MLAs. The saffron party

blamed the Congress for the large-scale violence in the state during the Jat agitation for reservation.

Meanwhile, state BJP in-charge Anil Jain said the Mondays cabinet meeting would discuss the reservation bill. The BJP meeting was organised at Morni in Panchkula at Redwood Resorts. Chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar and state president Subhash Barala were also present, besides Member of Parliament (MP) Ratan Lal Kataria. However, the meeting passed a resolution condemning the Congress and former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda for stoking violence in Sonepat, Jhajjar and Rohtak during the Jat agitation.

A total of 30 people were killed in the violence and 320 injured. The resolution passed during the meeting praised the government for controlling the violence within four days, which it claimed was unprecedented in history. It mentioned various governments failures in the past, whether it was during the Mandal violence or anti-Sikh riots. However, it did not mention the failure of the state machinery in Gujarat during the post-Godhra riots of 2002.

The meeting also passed another resolution on Satluj-Yamuna-Link (SYL) canal, which requested the central government to form a policy on resolving river water disputes among states so that no state government could dare to destroy federal structure.

Khattar said that they were investigating the violence witnessed during the Jat agitation and truth would come out soon. Wherever strictness is required, we will be strict. And wherever leniency is required, we will be lenient, he said.

Education minister Ram Bilas Sharma likened the BJP leaders to Pandavas and described the violence erupted during the Jat agitation as a ploy of Shakuni Congress. He also said that leaders like Hawa Singh Sangwan and Yashpal Malik could not dictate the BJP government.

Sangwan heads Akhil Bhartiya Jat Sangharsh Samiti while Malik is leading All India Jat Aarakshan Sangharsh Samiti. Both the organisations are at the forefront of agiation for Jat reservation. Sharma said, It was not a movement for reservation but for the Kursi (chair). Even the CM was abused. He was called Pakistani. He was born there. He had migrated to India after partition.

Finance minister Capt Abhimanyu said that violence in Haryana, the row over the suicide of a student at University of Hyderabad and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) controversy were planned to destabilise the central government.

Cabinet to consider draft bill on Jat quota today

The draft bill seeking to provide reservation to Jats and four other castes will be placed before the Haryana council of ministers for its consideration on March 28. The cabinet meeting, which was earlier scheduled for Sunday, has been rescheduled for Monday. It would now be held at 9 am at the state civil secretariat here. If approved by the council of ministers, the bill will be tabled in the state assembly when the House meets on Monday.

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Forty-three-year-old Inderjeet wants to know if he will ever be able to see again and resume work.

Inderjeet, who used to drive an auto, is now unemployed.

Thrashed by a police official, who was trying to disperse a crowd on Holi at Prem Nagar in Outer Delhis Aman Vihar, Inderjeet lies on a bed at the Guru Nanak Eye Centre. He was an auto-driver till Thursday.

Inderjeet has lost vision in one eye because of the blow and is unemployed now.

Everyone had come together to celebrate Holi. I had gone to wish my relatives in the area and was returning home when three to four policemen came and started shooing people away, he said.

They said that we cannot gather in such a large number in the colony without permission. To disperse the crowd, the policemen started hitting everyone with batons, he said.

I tried to run into a lane but before that a policeman came and hit me with a lathi. He hit me straight in the eye and I fell on the floor. He then hit me on my back and I fell on the ground bleeding.

Inderjeets wife came to his rescue on hearing him scream. His eye had popped out and his shirt was soaked in blood. I started shouting at the police personnel. I gathered all locals and told them that what the police had done was wrong. We went to the police station to file a complaint but they refused to register it. They said we should go back and no case will be registered, Inderjeets wife, Kusum Lata, said.

She said when she threatened to approach the higher authorities, a policeman came to her and told her that he would take Inderjeet to the hospital and also pay for his treatment, provided she keeps quiet. He took us to a private hospital and said he will pay for the treatment but I insisted that we go to a government hospital as we do not have the funds to pay for the follow-up treatment. He then left us outside Sanjay Gandhi hospital and drove off, she said.

DCP, Outer, Vikramjeet denied information about the incident. I will definitely enquire and if found true, strict action will be taken, he said.

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The imposition of Presidents Rule in Uttarakhand led to a political slugfest with the Congress terming it as a murder of democracy and parliamentary affairs minister Venkaiah Naidu hitting back with devil-quoting-scriptures barbs. Both the government and the opposition party have valid points to support their arguments, but if one pits the present against the past, the grand old party may be at a disadvantage.

Of the 126 times the Centre has invoked Article 356 to impose Presidents Rule in states, 88 were under Congress rule (see graphics). Former PM Indira Gandhi was accused of turning Article 356 into a political tool as she used it 50 times during her 16 years in power.

Over the past 68 years, Article 356 has been used to dismiss many elected governments, even when in a majority, to keep assemblies in suspended animation in order to give time to a favourable dispensation to get requisite numbers.

In 1959, the Jawaharlal Nehru government dismissed the EMS Namboodiripad-led Communist government in Kerala citing law and order problems. In the ensuing assembly elections in 1960, the vote share of the Communists increased while that of Congress decreased, but the latter managed to form an alliance government with Praja Socialist Party.

The subsequent years witnessed rampant use of Article 356, the most blatant being the dismissal of nine Congress governments by the Janata Party regime at the Centre in 1977, and Congress returning the favour once it returned to power in 1980. In 1984, when NT Rama Rao-led TDP government in Andhra Pradesh was dismissed, he came to Delhi to expose the Congress-led government, parading 161 MLAs of the 295-member House before the President.

In 2005, after polls produced a hung assembly in Bihar, then Governor Buta Singh recommended dissolution of the assembly alleging horsetrading. The Union cabinet approved it and faxed it to then President APJ Abdul Kalam, then in Moscow, for his signature. In 2006, Singh had to resign after Supreme Court passed strictures against him for misleading the Centre to prevent a particular party from coming to power.
The Haryana cabinet on Monday cleared the bill that proposes to provide reservation to five communities, including the politically-dominant Jat community.

The bill is likely to be brought in the state assembly later on Monday.

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar had earlier said that the state government would introduce a new bill in the assemblys budget session for reservation to five communities - Jat, Jat Sikh, Tyagi, Bishnoi and Ror.

Khattar had made it clear that the existing 27 percent reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in the state would not be disturbed. The OBC community is opposing inclusion of Jats in their category for reservation.

A five-member committee under the chairmanship of the chief secretary was formed earlier this month to prepare draft of the Bill to grant reservation under the ambit of constitution.

The Jat community has extended its deadline for the reservation demand till March 31.

The Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state had promised reservation for the Jat community and others after the recent Jat agitation for reservation left the state paralysed for nine days.

A total of 30 people were killed and over 320 injured and property worth hundreds of crores of rupees was destroyed as the agitation turned violent.

Read more: Haryana BJP executive meet skips Jat reservation bill issue
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called up his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif and offered his deep condolences to the victims of the terror attack in Lahore park blast that left at least 72 dead, mostly women and children.

PM Narendra Modi called Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to express his deep condolences at the terrorist attack in #Lahore, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted on Monday.

PM @narendramodi called Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to express his deep condolences at the terrorist attack in #Lahore.  Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) 27 March 2016

Terming the attack as cowardly for targeting women and children, Modi underlined the need for uncompromising efforts to fight terror.

During the conversation, PM Narendra Modi underlined the need for uncompromising efforts to fight against terrorism.

During the conversation, PM @narendramodi underlined the need for uncompromising efforts to fight against terrorism.  Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) 27 March 2016

The Prime Minister had taken to Twitter to condemn the blast earlier on Monday.

Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased and prayers with the injured, PM Modi tweeted.

Heard about the blast in Lahore. I strongly condemn it. My condolences to families of the deceased & prayers with the injured: PM  PMO India (@PMOIndia) 27 March 2016

At least 72 people were killed and over 250 injured, mostly women and children, when a powerful blast ripped through a public park in Lahore where Christian families were celebrating Easter on Sunday.
More than 200 Indian academicians, including internationally-known figures and graduate students, have written to the chancellor of University of Hyderabad condemning the police action on students on March 22 and demanding that the vice-chancellor steps down from his post.

They also demanded the immediate release of the arrested students and faculty members and that students who were injured in the police action are helped in all possible way.

A group of students vandalised the vice-chancellor Appa Rao Podiles office last Tuesday to protest his resuming charge after a two-month-long absence following the suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemulas suicide on January 17. Rao was accused of abetting the suicide and the university became a subject of a nationwide political debate over caste discrimination in education.

Video clips showed police dragging students demonstrating peacefully outside the vice-chancellors residence. Some protesters were injured in police lathi-charge and several of them were hospitalised. Students had also alleged that the cops threatened to rape the women.

We understand that there may have been acts of destruction by some of the students, and we strongly condemn such acts. It is arguable whether it was necessary to call the police to deal with the students. However, having called the police, the administration of the University should have ensured that the police force did not make a brutal assault on the students, they said in their letter to C Rangarajan.

They also asked the chancellor to assuage the fears of the students, who have been seeking justice for Vemula, about their future in the university and that students are not penalised for legitimately voicing their political opinions, or for challenging the University establishment.

The scholars said there are several cases against the V-C and it is utterly inappropriate for him to occupy the o?ce of the Vice Chancellor of the University and demanded that Rao relinquish his o?ce.

There has been almost no progress in the police cases against Prof Appa Rao, whereas the police have been quick to act on the protesting students. We demand that this imbalance be redressed, and that the cases against Prof. Appa Rao be speedily brought to their logical conclusion, they wrote.

They pointed out that there have been issues of systematic injustice against Dalits and attempts by some students group to disrupt the activities of students whose opinions they oppose and asked the administration to seriously address these issues.

They lashed out at the universitys administration for calling the police inside the campus on several occasions and demanded the withdrawal of police force from the campus.

A troubling feature of the events at the University is the frequent reliance of the administration of the University on the police apparatus. We feel that the police have no place in an academic campus, and should be called upon only in rare circumstances. We, therefore, request you to have the police removed from the campus of the University.

Vemula was among five students suspended by the institute following allegations of assault on a leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), an RSS-affiliated students body.

His death sparked a nationwide outcry with critics alleging that the HRD ministry pushed for the Dalit students to be punished by sending five reminders to the vice-chancellor after labour minister Bandaru Dattatreya complained to Smriti Iranis department.
A Pakistani team investigating the Pathankot attack arrived in the Capital on Monday and told National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials it had the legal mandate to gather evidence in India though defence minister Manohar Parrikar said it would be granted restricted access to the attacked fighter base.

The five-member joint investigation team (JIT) which will visit the Pathankot air force station on Tuesday handed a copy of Pakistans criminal procedure code to Indian officials at the NIA headquarters.

The Pak investigators said they dont need to send any judicial request for assistance in probe (called letter rogatory or LR in Indian legal parlance) to India for formally gathering evidence here, a senior government official said. They clarified their criminal procedure code doesnt even have a provision for the LR and it provides them a sufficient legal framework to formally seek evidence and present it in court.

Earlier, the Congress questioned the real intent of the Pakistani teams visit without a letter rogatory and guarantee of prosecution. Party spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala said Pakistan had not provided its team the LR that would have made the evidence collected fit for judicial use.

Read | Pathankot probe: Kejriwal, Cong take on Modi over Pakistan teams visit

One is forced to wonder as to what is the investigation all about, if it is not going to be of any use to nail the supposed non-state actors in Pakistani courts, Surjewala said.

India had asked the JIT to get judicial approval in Pakistan as without that the interaction with NIA officials would remain informal.

The JIT of Pakistan and the NIA team are interacting under extant legal procedures of India and Pakistan, NIA inspector general Sanjeev Singh said.

The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party said the government was giving JIT officials access to the airbase without any assurance from Islamabad on action against the perpetrators. They also raised questions on the presence of an ISI official in the JIT.

We were saying ISI was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored attack. Has this position changed? Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal said. But Parrikar clarified the JIT had been denied permission to land at the airbase, use military vehicles or speak to defence personnel.

Read | 5 things about Pak Pathankot attack probe teams India visit

The 18 Wing fighter base holds Russian-origin MiG-21 warplanes and a mix of Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack helicopters. The pre-dawn terror strike on January 2 left seven security personnel dead, including a lieutenant colonel.

We have specifically denied them permission to go anywhere in the airbase, Parrikar said and added the visiting team would be given access only to the crime scene.

The technical area where IAFs high-value assets are parked would be completely barricaded, the minister said. The defence ministry has issued directions very clearly that the crime scene should be barricaded, visually blocked, Parrikar said.

The Pakistani team is headed by chief of Punjabs counter-terrorism department Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahores deputy director general, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, ISI official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, military intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala counter-terrorism department investigating officer Shahid Tanveer.
Over the next three days, the five-member joint investigation team (JIT) will divide its time between Delhi and Punjab to gather evidence related to the Pathankot airbase attack. Two Pakistan intelligence officers, including one from ISI, and three investigators have been given a seven-day visa.

Read more: Pak JIT to begin Pathankot probe on Mar 28, 1st such team on Indian soil

Read more: 5 things about Pak Pathankot attack probe teams India visit

The team is scheduled to meet National Investigative Agency (NIA) officials looking into the attack at their headquarters in central Delhi at 11am on Monday. The JIT will be given a 90-minute presentation by Indian officials. However, there is no estimate on when the days meetings will end.

Read more: Pakistan probe team to meet NIA before reaching Pathankot

Early on Tuesday morning, teams from both agencies will take a special BSF flight to Amritsar from where they will board a chopper for Pathankot. There, NIA has lined up 17 witnesses, not including security personnel or IAF officers, who will depose before the Pakistani officials. JIT may also visit Bamiyal, the border village from where the militants are suspected to have entered. The officials are expected to return to Delhi by nightfall.

Read more: Paks probe team arrives in India, to visit Pathankot airbase

On day three  Wednesday, both sides will hold more discussions at NIA headquarters. The JIT officials are likely to speak to Punjab SP Salwinder Singh, his cook and a friend who were abducted by militants, if they havent been able to on Monday. The examination though will not be carried out directly by the team; instead questions will be handed to the NIA who will in turn get responses from the three.

The NIA had asked the JIT to seek evidence through a judicial route in order to make it admissible in a Pakistani court. However, in absence of a letter rogatory, a request from a court to a foreign court for judicial assistance, India hopes that Pakistan will conduct a serious inquiry as a show of good will.
The Opposition on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators from that country to probe the January 2 terror attack on an Indian Air Force base in Pathankot.

Questioning the governments move to give Pakistans security and intelligence officials access to the strategic facility, the Congress said: Pakistan has provided no assurance of action. Yet their team has been allowed to investigate the Pathankot terror attack (in India).

The Centre has not been able to differentiate between state actors and non state actors perpetrating anti-India cross-border terror, spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told reporters.

A five-member Pakistani team is in India to investigate the attack blamed on terrorists from across the border.

Read: Paks probe team arrives in India, to visit Pathankot airbase tomorrow

Any lead picked up by the team during the goodwill visitwill not be of any legal use in the absence of Letter Rogatory, a request from a court to a foreign court for any judicial assistance.

This is the first time a Pakistan team is examining witnesses in a case in India. This is also the first time an official of Pakistans spy agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is part of such a high-profile team that has Indias nod.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan was harbouring terrorism against India.

We were saying ISI (Pakistans spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed? the Aam Aadmi Party leader said.

Prime Minister Modi has surrendered before Pakistan, he said.

While the Pakistani team will examine three witnesses in the case, it will not be able to question soldiers from the National Security Guard and the Border Security Force, and commandos of Indian Air Forces Garud division.

The team will visit only those areas of Pathankot airbase in Punjab where militants were engaged in an 80-hour gun battle that left seven soldiers and all the terrorists dead. .

Defence minister Manohar Parrikar said the crime scene at the Pathankot airbase has been handed over to the anti-terror National Investigation Agency, which will decide whether or not to give access to the Pakistani probe team.

He said the defence ministry did not give permission to to enter the airbase. Parrikar said the crime scene, a non-sensitive area, has been completely barricaded on his orders.

Read: NIA has proof JeM leadership was in loop for Pathankot strike: Sources
Its an Indian diaspora success story to rival any: they came to Antwerp as a trickle from the 1960s onwards from Palanpur in Gujarat to cut and polish diamonds, soon competed in trade, and today dominate the multi-billion euro diamond industry with a global reach.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a packed schedule during his one-day visit to Brussels on Wednesday, but a key engagement is meeting representatives of Antwerps prosperous Indian community  one engagement at which he will most certainly feel at home.

No surprise that gems and jewellery constitute the top sector in India-Belgium trade: between January and September 2015, it topped exports from India to Belgium (worth 1.45 billion), and it also topped imports of India from Belgium ( 4.76 billion).

The small, tightly-knit community of diamantaires of Antwerp today constitute most of the 2,500 NRIs/OCIs, according to the Indian embassy here. Several people from Antwerp will make the short journey here for Modis community event.

Take a walk along Hoveniersstraat, Antwerp, and you will be greeted with names such as Shah, Patel and Mehta in a historical area that has been the base of global diamond trading for centuries, and long dominated by the Jewish community  but no longer.

Starting with trade in smaller, lower-value stones that brought small margins, the Palanpuri Jains and Kathiawadi Patels expanded, using competitive methods to win business from the long established Jewish traders, polishing in rupees and selling in dollars.

You will also be told how the Indian diamantaires retain their close links with India and their culture, including each of the over 400 families flying in personal cooks from Gujarat to meet their strict vegetarian requirements.

The community also used the cheap labour and excellent skill of Surats diamond cutters and polishers to produce diamonds that had larger market potential. They sent rough, uncut diamonds to Surat, where labour cost was a fraction of that in Antwerp.

Antwerp had nearly 30,000 people engaged in diamond processing in the 1970s; the strength is now reported to be less than 1,000. Besides, family members of the Indian diamantaires head offices and workshops in various countries, expanding their global trading reach.

Given Modis record of celebrating achievements of the diaspora in previous community events in New York, London and elsewhere, the success of the Gujarat-origin diamantaires of Antwerp is likely to figure prominently in the community event on Wednesday evening.

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He dropped out of school after class 7 and struggled as a welder in rural Rajasthan, but 25-year-old Govind Gehlot didnt let adversity stand in the way of his dreams.

The son of a poor farmer, Gehlot says he has developed a remote-controlled vehicle, on the lines of Googles much-vaunted self-driven car.

I get ideas when I sleep and then I cant sleep before I have worked on them, says the young man, who stays away from his wife and two children, 12 and 9 years, to be able to concentrate on his dreams. I visit them twice a month.

His father is a peasant while his elder brother has a small welding shop in Mathania, 200 kilometres away.

Gehlot makes Rs 6,000 from his 10 feet-by-4 feet welding shop in Chhayan and spends most of it on his dreams.

He put three months earnings on a crude contraption that was fitted into a Maruti Alto car after removing the drivers seat. The contraption  which looks a mesh of wires and iron plates  has two mobile phones: one for the steering wheel and the other for the pedals.

Gehlot uses two phones in his hand to run this car. With one, he controls the steering wheel, pressing 1 for left and 3 for right turns; and with the other, he presses 5 for the clutch, brake and accelerator pedals. The car runs only in the first gear.

The vehicle can run only within his sight because theres a three-second lag in transmission of images from the phone in the car to the one in his hand.

When 4G signals become available in his village, he says he will be able to run it to wherever he wants. This is not the first innovative, if somewhat unbelievable, invention by Gehlot.

A few years ago he bought a second-hand motorcycle for Rs 17,000 to use its engine to develop a flying chair. He succeeded in raising it three feet above the ground level but failed to control its balance and gave it up.

Later, he developed a rotating house, 4 feet by 8 feet in size, atop a tree but a storm destroyed it.

He got the inspiration for his contraption from the Google experiment. I cant afford a satellite etc but I have an alternative idea  to work with mobile phone signals, he says. He bought an Alto with his sisters help and paid EMIs for six years.

People in the village thought I was mad to be dismantling the car so I worked mostly at nights. This idea didnt let me sleep. I slept for barely one-two hours until I was through with the system, he says.

But his dream may never become reality. Auto expert Amit Jain, CEO and co-founder of cardekho.com said he has doubts about the technologys scalability as Indian roads arent fit for such a car. He, however, praised the innovation.

Now, for more than a month, the car has been parked outside his house for lack of a licence for such a vehicle. Govind is hoping his story will reach the Prime Ministers Office one day and help him in securing funding. I will then shut my welding business and work fulltime on engineering my ideas.

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A sting operation on chief minister Harish Rawat sealed the fate of the Congress government in Uttarakhand before it could take Mondays scheduled floor test in the assembly to prove its majority.

Read more: Whats next as Congress, BJP slug it out in Uttarakhand?

A senior government official, who didnt wish to be named, told Hindustan Times on Sunday that governor KK Paul mentioned in his report to the Union home ministry the sting on Rawat, which brought into question the fairness of floor test.

The home ministry received the five-page report at 8pm, necessitating an emergency meeting of the Union cabinet late on Saturday.

The Congress government of Rawat, who took the hot seat in 2014 after an intense intra-party power struggle, was dismissed and Presidents rule was imposed on Sunday after days of political crisis in the hill state as nine dissident lawmakers joined the rival BJP to stake claim to power.

Read more: Centre imposes Presidents rule in Uttarakhand a day before floor test

On Saturday, the 69-yearold chief minister was shown in sting operation aired by an Uttarakhand channel striking an alleged multi-crore rupees deal to bribe the rebels back into the party. The editor-in-chief of Samachar Plus channel, Umesh Kumar, conducted the sting.

The state s governor had sent three reports to the ministry on the crisis but it was not clear if he dispatched his final report on his own or he was nudged by the Centre to do so.

The first report was basically a factual report of the political situation in the state. In the second, the governor shed light on the politically-volatile situation. But the third report came after the sting operation and it tilted the scales against the Rawat government, the official said.

The Union cabinet on Saturday discussed the crisis at length and arrived at a consensus, the home ministry official said.

Besides the sting, the governor apparently mentioned other issues to give a comprehensive picture of the states political scenario.

The report mentioned allegations of horse-trading of MLAs and indicated a governance collapse, the official said.

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Hundreds of students protested in front of the University of Hyderabad on Monday to demand the immediate removal and arrest of vice-chancellor P Appa Rao for his alleged role in the suicide of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula.

The protestors, who marched from North Shopcom to the main gate, shouted slogans against the central government, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the vice-chancellor. They then held a dharna in front of the main gate to condemn the March 22 police crackdown as well as the arrest of students and faculty members.

Slogans like Sanghi police down down, ABVP leave campus and Smriti Irani sharam karo rent the air as the agitators demanded that the arrested people be released immediately. The protest was held as part of a nationwide protest called by the Joint Action Committee for Social Justice, an umbrella group of 14 student bodies.

Read: Hyderabad court to hear bail plea of arrested HCU students today

Meanwhile, the protesters call to boycott classes at the university evoked a mixed response from students. While students of some faculties observed a complete boycott to push for action against Rao, departments like the school of life sciences  where the ABVP enjoys considerable presence  witnessed regular classes.

Students from the school of social sciences came out their classes and shouted slogans against the government and the university administration, even as security personnel kept a strict vigil.

Laboratories on the campus functioned as usual.

The faculty members and students who want Appa Rao to remain here attended classes, said Vijay Kumar, who was suspended along with Vemula and three other Dalit students.

Though the police had earlier objected to the students taking out the march, they later backed down. The campus, however, remained closed to outsiders in keeping with an order from university authorities. Barricades were erected on the road leading to VC Lodge, where police had clashed with students on March 22.

Read: Over 200 scholars condemn police action at HCU, ask V-C to step down

Meanwhile, Rao inaugurated an international conference on physics amid heavy security despite the ongoing protest against him. The universitys school of physics organised the conference, sponsored by the University Grants Commission and the Centre for Advanced Studies.

As this is an international conference, we did not want to disrupt it. It would have only dented the institutions reputation, a student said.

Rao had returned to the university on March 22 after a two-month leave, triggering strong protests from the students. Police cracked down on the protesters the same day, arresting 25 students and two faculty members.

Vemula was among five Dalit students suspended by the institute following allegations of assault on a leader of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a right-wing students body. His death on January 17 sparked a nationwide outcry, with critics alleging that the HRD ministry had pushed Rao to act against the students.
The top leaders of Tamil Nadus two principal parties  the DMK and the AIADMK  are being besieged by everybody from supporters to ticket seekers and hangers-on. Sadly, few manage it past the reception desk at the party office.

But several self-styled leaders of newly formed outfits, unknown to the public until recently, have achieved considerable success in this regard. The reason? The DMK and AIADMK  intent on expanding their support base  are even adopting organisations that probably do not exist beyond a crude letterhead.

In the battle of optics, letterhead outfits come in handy. They help boost numbers and create the image that political parties enjoy a lot of support, Gnani Shankaran, a political observer, told HT.

A case in point is K Chandrasekaran, president of the Nadigar Thilagam Sivaji Samuga Nalaperravai, who easily secured an appointment with DMK scion MK Stalin. So what if his organisation does not even have a functional office? The fact that he is the leader of a group aimed at spreading the name and fame of late Tamil superstar Sivaji Ganesan was enough to help him get a two-minute interview and a photo-op with Stalin.

The DMK has reportedly notched the support of 65 outfits, from film star associations to farmer groups, while the AIADMK claims to have taken as many as 89 under its wing.

Just the other day, two associations  one of temple priests and another of astrologers  pledged their support to the DMK. The AIADMK, on the other hand, recruited the support of a potters association.

With both the AIADMK and the DMK bracing for a close contest, they expect smaller organisations to help them gain crucial votes in the upcoming polls. The groups, on the other hand, hope to be adequately rewarded if their parent parties strike gold.
Police have registered a case against 12 people for allegedly attacking a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) activist, following a dispute over a shakha (branch) being run at a primary school in Baka Jalapur village.

Members of the Hindu and Muslim communities clashed soon after the attack, which occurred on Saturday evening. A large number of police personnel were deployed in the area to prevent any untoward incidents.

The police report stated that Sandeep Kumar, a resident of Bhiknapur Alawalpur village in Mauaima, had an altercation with one Afsaar Ali over the former running an RSS shakha at the Ghoorghat primary school in the village.

Kumar alleged that he was attacked by Ali and a few of his friends at the primary school on Saturday, and shot at upon trying to flee the scene. However, the RSS activist managed to enter a village, where the villagers came out to support him.

Upon being informed about the communal tension in the area, superintendent of police (Trans-Yamuna) Rajesh Srivastava rushed to the village with a large number of security personnel. A case was registered against Ali and his accomplices after Kumar filed a complaint.

The accused  for their part  have claimed that it was Kumar and his supporters who attacked them, although they were yet to approach the police in this regard. Mauaima circle officer Lal Pratap Singh said that a case has been registered against the accused, and raids were on to nab them.
The Centres decision to dismiss the Uttarakhand government might jolt the BJPs efforts to woo regional forces for isolating rivals such as the Congress and Left in Parliament.

The central government also faces a challenge to ratify the latest promulgation under article 356 in the Rajya Sabha, where it is in a minority. Parties such as the Biju Janata Dal and the DMK have protested against the imposition of Presidents Rule on Monday.

The Samajwadi Party and the Left, too, have been principally opposed to the misuse of Article 356, which empowers Centre to dismiss a government on grounds of constitutional breakdown in a state. We are completely opposed to the manner in which Presidents Rule has been imposed in Uttarakhand. This certainly has created suspicion among other parties about the intentions of this government, said BJDs Lok Sabha leader Bhartruhari Mahtab.

Read | Uttarakhand crisis: Congress moves HC, Rawat parades MLAs

SP national secretary Rajesh Dixit said the central governments action was undemocratic and condemnable. After the experience in Bihar, it seems BJP has realised it cannot assume power through democratic means. Therefore, the party has started resorting to underhand strategies, he said.

Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi called the Centres move undemocratic and said his party will stand by the Congress on this issue. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury described the Presidents Rule as a serious attack on democracy. His party colleague, Nilotpal Basu, said, Dismissal of elected governments has never gone down well with the people. We are confident that opposition parties in Rajya Sabha will not ratify the promulgation.

Article 356 (3) makes it mandatory for the Centre to lay the promulgation before each House of Parliament. It adds the promulgation will cease to operate after two months unless before the expiration of that period it has been approved by resolutions of both Houses of Parliament.

Read | How clash of titans, ambitions of leaders led to crisis in Uttarakhand

The BJP-led NDA, even with supporters such as AIADMK, PDP and SDF, has around 81 MPs in the 245-member Upper House.

Trinamool Congress, which supported BJPs reform-related legislation such as the GST and Real Estate bills, maintained it will not support dismissal of state governments. Party sources said it wants to remain silent as it is fighting the Congress in the upcoming West Bengal polls. We are focused on the polls. We dont want to be distracted by other issues, said TMC spokesperson Derek OBrien.

However, the Shiv Sena supported its ally, the BJP.

Read | Uttarakhand crisis: Its advantage BJP in numbers game, for now

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The Uttarakhand Congress on Monday moved the High Court in Nainital against the imposition of Presidents rule in the state. In a writ filed before the court, the party pointed out that Presidents rule was not justified, when Harish Rawat was asked to seek trust vote on the floor of the house on Monday.

Sources in Nainital informed that the High Court has accepted the writ and that it is being heard in the court of Justice UC Dhyani.

The political crisis in Uttarakhand escalated two days ago, after rebel Congress MLAs released a sting video allegedly showing CM Harish Rawat indulging in horse-trading to save his government. The union cabinet recommended the central rule on Saturday night after an hour-long meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Rawat, after the unceremonial exit from the government on Sunday, hinted that the party would challenge the courts decision. The BJP has conspired to kill the democracy and an elected government. The party has full faith in the judicial system and we are seeking justice from the court, said party vice president Jot Singh Bisht said

On Sunday night, former CM Rawat with half a dozen legislators including former minister Indra Hridyesh called on Governor KK Paul and requested for a chance to prove majority on the floor of the house on Monday.

BJP legislators, who were camping in Jaipur, will return to Dehradun on Monday.

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Uttarakhands deposed chief minister Harish Rawat requested governor KK Paul on Monday to revoke the suspension of the assembly while his party petitioned the high court against Presidents rule in the state.

The Congress government of Rawat, who became chief minister in 2014 after an intense intra-party power struggle, was dismissed and central rule was imposed on Sunday after days of political upheaval in the hill state as nine dissident lawmakers joined the rival BJP to stake claim to power.

Rawat, who was ousted a day before a scheduled floor test to prove his majority in the House, claimed to have the support of 34 MLAs.

Presidents rule was an arbitrary decision of the BJP-led Union government, defeating the basic tenets of democracy and Constitution. We have all respect for constitutional authorities unlike the BJP or the Narendra Modi government at the Centre, Rawat said on Monday.

Read | Indiras record of imposing Prez rule may undercut Congress attack

Thats why we went to the governor to apprise him of our majority in the House and at the same time approached the high court to plead for revocation of the suspension of the state assembly.

He paraded 32 legislators, including five members of the Progressive Democratic Front (PDF), in front of the governor and submitted two memorandums carrying signatures of 34 MLAs. A BJP dissident and a BSP lawmaker were absent from the show of strength as they were unwell, Congress legislator Manoj Tiwari said.

The Congress and alliance partner PDF told the governor that Rawat still enjoys the support of 34 MLAs to run a stable government in a 61-member assembly  reduced from the original 70 after the disqualification of nine rebels under the anti-defection law.

They requested the governor to clear the finance bill for a Rs 40,000-crore budget for the 2016-17 fiscal, which the now-dissolved government claimed to have passed on March 18.

The Rawat government plunged into crisis when the bill was tabled in the assembly and rebel Congress lawmakers, led by former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna, joined the opposition BJP in protesting against the proposed legislation.

Read | How clash of titans, ambitions of leaders led to crisis in Uttarakhand

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley said Rawat should have quit over the finance bill. This leaves the state without any approved financial expenditure with effect from 1 April, 2016. What better evidence do we need of a breakdown of Constitution? The Congress government of Uttarakhand was murdering democracy every day from the 18 March till 27 March, he wrote on Facebook.

But the Congress-PDF delegation informed the governor that his assent cannot be kept on hold as no provision of the Constitution allows that.

No other agency can pass the appropriation bill for Uttarakhand other than the state legislature. The Lok Sabha can make budgetary provisions for the state only if the state assembly is dissolved, Rawat said after his meeting with Paul.

We provided all documentary and constitutional evidence that the governor cannot hold on to the appropriation bill passed by the state legislature and is bound to give his assent.

Read | Uttarakhand crisis: BJP faces united wall of Opposition in Parliament

The Nainital high court heard the Congresss writ petition against Presidents rule in the state. Party spokesperson and Supreme Court lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared for Rawat, argued that the state was brought under central rule to sabotage the constitutional process since the governor had asked the Congress government to take a floor test on Monday.

Invocation of Article 356 (of the Constitution) in Uttarakhand is absolutely illegal, arbitrary and malafide and, therefore, its invocation should be quashed and the Harish Rawat government restored, he said.

(With inputs from HTC, New Delhi)
A defining moment in the dissidence drama in Uttarakhand that brought down the state government on Sunday was BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya garlanding the nine Congress rebels.

Dissidence in rival camps is often watched cautiously, that too, from a distance. But Vijayvargyas style of politics has little space for such nuanced steps. His gesture, packed with powerful punch lines like Given an opportunity, the BJP would explore options of forming the government in the state made it clear the aggressive pitch to push BJP to power in Uttarakhand.

In another photo that went viral on social media, Vijayvargya was seen flying with rebel Congress MLAs, perhaps to a safe house in the BJPs bastion of Rajasthan.

Exclusive onboard spacial charter flight with 9 rebels from congress & 26 @bjputtarakhand MLA @abpnewstv pic.twitter.com/h7HM3n58gl  Vikas Bhadauria (@vikasbha) March 18, 2016

Vijay Bahuguna, the leader of the nine Congress rebels who plunged the Congress government in crisis by supporting the BJP, also echoed what Vijayvargya said.

In his last press conference in Delhi on Friday, Bahuguna made it clear he was not in the race to become the CM in this assembly. The post should go to a BJP leader, if they want to form a government, he said. Vijayvargya maintained a similar position: New Uttarakhand CM will be from the BJP. None of rebel Cong MLAs will be chosen, he said in a tweet.

Sources added that VIjayvargya and Bahuguna knew each other for a long time. And possibly it was also the reason why he was roped in to nurture the Congress rebels by the BJP. In 2000, Vijayvargiya was the mayor of Indore . He also led the All India Mayors Council. During that time, Bahuguna was a lawyer. He fought a case for the mayors association after Vijayvargya requested him and won the case.

WATCH: 35 #Uttarakhand MLAs on board the flight to Delhi from Dehradunhttps://t.co/6QiW90T22c  ANI (@ANI_news) March 18, 2016

Vijayvargya had expressed his unhappiness over the fact that the Harish Rawat government got 10 days time to prove majority.

The Governor did not act on the request of the majority of the legislature to dismiss the state government and on the contrary granted 10 days time i.e. up to 28/3/2016 to prove majority on the floor of the House. Such a long time has given an opportunity to the chief minister to indulge in illegal, unconstitutional practices including horse trading to convert a minority into majority, the BJPs memorandum, signed by him along with other leaders, said.

On Sunday, the Centre imposed Presidents Rule in the state a day before a crucial trust vote in the assembly that the Congress was expected to win after the speaker dismissed the nine rebel Congress MLAs.
Uttarakhand became Congress-mukt on Sunday. That was about five weeks after Arunachal Pradesh was freed from the party. It may have brought the BJP within striking distance of realising Prime Minister Narendra Modis dream of a Congress-mukt Bharat, but even die-hard BJP supporters cant miss the irony.

The replacement and ouster of elected governments in Itanagar and Dehradun have a sense of deja vu  engineered defections, misuse of gubernatorial powers, avowal of innocence, and assertions of self-righteousness  much like the Congress of the olden days.

At the Vijay Sankalp rally in Goa in January 2014, Modi had said: When I say Congress-mukt Bharat, I mean not only the Congress party leaders but the culture the Congress has come to represent. However, the BJP has obviously found the Congress culture a little too tempting to resist. Whatever the courts may say later, the BJP has achieved its immediate political goals in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Read: Centre imposes Presidents rule in Uttarakhand a day before floor test

As of Monday morning, the Congress still ruled seven states  Assam, Kerala, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram and Meghalaya. Two of them, Assam and Kerala, are headed for the polls next month. Of the remaining five, the Congress government in Manipur is staring at a crisis with some dissident MLAs said to be in touch with the BJP. The government in Mizoram seems safe as of now, although the Raj Bhawan in Aizawl has been unstable with seven incumbents since the NDA came to power at the Centre.

When Modi had set out to free India from the Congress, his primary reason apparently was development or the lack of it. Be it dynasty politics, nepotism, corruption, communalism, divisions in society or poverty, getting freedom from all this is what I mean by a Congress-Mukt Bharat, he said. There were millions who paid heed to his words as the Congress was ousted not only from the Centre but also states such as Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand and Jammu & Kashmir. The BJP suffered setbacks in Delhi and Bihar, but they were not because of the Congress.

Why, then, was the BJP in such a hurry to grab power in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand? If Modi meant freedom from corruption, communalism, divisions in society by a Congress-mukt Bharat, why did the BJP embrace Himanta Biswa Sarma, chief minister Tarun Gogois estranged lieutenant, who is under the scanner in many corruption cases? Why has the BJP made illegal immigrants, and not development, its central poll plank in Assam? In Kerala, the BJP has been trying to woo a section of Christians who are known to be Congress loyalists. Recently, the Prime Minister met KP Yohannan, founder of the Gospel for Asia, ignoring the fact that the organisation allegedly embezzled millions of dollars in charitable donations in Canada.

Read: Sting operation on Harish Rawat seals Congress fate in Uttarakhand

The occurrences on Sunday were, therefore, in sync with the BJPs larger political objectives. Inherent in Modis slogan of a Congress-mukt Bharat is a BJP-yukt Bharat or BJP-enabled India. On Sunday, legal luminaries of the Congress quoted from court rulings to argue that the governor could not recommend the Presidents Rule after inviting Harish Rawat government to prove its majority on the floor of the assembly by Monday. The assessment of the strength of the ministry is not a matter of private opinion or any individual, be he the governor or the President. The Presidents satisfaction in the proclamation of Article 356 is not a personal whim but must be based on objective materials, said Congress spokesman Manish Tewari.

However, the Congress partys cries of injustice and foul play may not melt many hearts  given its own track record. Article 356 has been invoked over 120 times since Independence, mostly by Congress governments. During Indira Gandhis prime ministership, this Article was used at least three dozen times.

But the BJPs victory in Itanagar and Dehradun may turn out to be pyrrhic in the long run. It had ceased to be the party with a difference a long time ago, moving on to project Narendra Modi-led regime as a government with a difference. The new slogan may already have lost much of its appeal on Sunday.

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The Centres decision to impose Presidents Rule in Uttarakhand on Sunday has turned the state into a political battleground.

The decision came a day before the Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat was to prove his majority in the assembly.

The Congress condemned the decision as a murder of democracy, and said that a clear pattern of the BJP engineering legislative splits in Congress-led state was emerging,noting the similarities between the current political crisis and the run up to their government in Arunachal Pradesh being toppled earlier this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his Assam elections tour for an emergency cabinet meeting which advocated the adoption of Presidents Rule in Uttarakhand.

Read: Prez rule in Uttarakhand: Governors report on sting op tilted scales

The decision was taken after the sting operation against Rawat and allegations that the CM had indulged in horse-trading to save his government.

A question of timing

For the BJP, timing is the key to their political aspirations in the state. The party claims that they are supported by the nine rebel Congress MLAs, which gives them the right to stake a claim to government.

Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Uttarakhand, addresses the press conference in New Delhi. (Virendra Singh Gosain/ HT Photo)

There is a dispute, however, over when the rebel MLAs were disqualified by the Speaker of the Assembly. If the order came in before Presidents rule was imposed, they stand disqualified. This in turn brings down the majority mark to 31 in a reduced House of 61; so the BJP could potentially form a government with the support of just 6 PDF MLAs.

However, the disqualification will not stand if it was ordered after the imposition of Presidents rule; if that is the case, then the BJP will need the 9 rebels as well to form a government.

Read: All you need to know about Presidents rule in Uttarakhand

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi slammed the governments decision, tweeting Modiji dont let your love of power overrule ppls mandate. @INCIndia is ready-fight elections, seek ppls mandate, dont usurp their right.

Modiji don't let your love of power overrule ppl's mandate. @INCIndia is ready-fight elections, seek ppl's mandate, don't usurp their right  Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) 27 March 2016

Rawat also condemned the Centres decision to invoke ARticle 356, saying that it is a murder of democracy and the Constitution. Modis hands are dipped in the blood of the trampled aspirations of the people of Uttarakhand...

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley, however, dismissed the CMs statement, saying that for the last nine days, every day provisions of the Constitution are being murdered.

The BJP has said that they may attempt to form a government if they get the green-light from the partys central parliamentary board.

Read: Congress to move court against imposition of Prez rule in Uttarakhand

Congress has, in the meantime, said that it will challenge the Centres decision in the Supreme Court.
Pending since 2014, the go-ahead to shift 141 final-year students of Pathankots Chintpurni Medical College came on Monday, finally, from the medical education and research department.

The students have been divided equally among three government colleges and six private institutions. The list mentioning the respective place of readmission was sent to the Chintpurni college management on Monday and we expect the shifting to be over within a week, said Dr Raj Bahadur, vice-chancellor of Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, who heads the transfer process.

The principals of all the colleges that are to adjust these students were called for a meeting in Chandigarh on Monday, where they were handed the list in the presence of Dr Raj Bahadur and medical education and research director Dr Manjit Kaur Mohi. Of the 141 students, 43 already appeared for the final examination at Chintpurni College last December. They will only undergo the mandatory internship at the new colleges, and the rest will attend final-year classes until the end of this year, said Dr Raj Bahadur. The interns will only pay the migration fee to the new colleges. The rest will pay the existing fee based on quota allotted in the original college.

Students selected under government quota will be readmitted to private colleges in same category and pay the fee accordingly, explained Dr Mohi. She said the list mentioned how many students were joining under the government and management quotas, for which the fee structure is different. Those being admitted to government colleges will pay their last-year fee accordingly.

Worry for students joining Gian Sagar

Of the shifted students, 18 have been adjusted in Gian Sagar Medical College, where classes are suspended for the past one month of protest by teachers and non-teaching employees, who have not been paid for six months. The scheduled meeting between the medical education secretary and the college management could not take place on Monday.

Medical education secretary Hussan Lal confirmed that the college management had been called for another meeting with minister Anil Joshi in the next two-three days, where their exact payoff to staff will be discussed. In case they fail to honour their commitment, we have other ways of putting things in order. We cant let Gian Sagar students suffer the fate of Chintpurni College students, he added.

Shift explained

In 2014, the first batch of Chintpurni Medical College students (admitted in 2011) began their protest to seek transfer after intake was barred in the years 2012-13, 2013-14, 2015-16. Students feared that their degrees wouldnt be legitimate.

After a long legal battle that began with the Punjab and Haryana high court directions in September 16, 2014, these students are finally being shifted now. This January, the high court imposed a fine of `1 lakh on the Medical Council of India (MCI), while hearing the contempt petition filed by the students.

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The Centre has issued directives to cotton-producing states like Punjab and Haryana to ensure timely sowing of the crop and use of only recommended seeds for preventing whitefly attack, which caused significant damage to the crop last year.

States have been directed to keep a close watch on the movement of whitefly and ensure timely sprinkling of pesticides to check its menace.

Union agriculture and farmers welfare ministry has issued extensive directives to the states producing cotton to check the adverse effect of whitefly on cotton, an official statement saidon Monday.

The directives have been issued in view of the likely menace to cotton in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan from whitefly, it said.

The agriculture ministry has taken various preventive measures, which include elaborate assessment and analysis about the loss inflicted last year.

The Central Cotton Research Regional Centre, Sirsa, recently held a meeting with officials of the agriculture ministry, scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and senior officials of departments of agriculture from Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan to look into the matter.

After the review, the Centre has forwarded extensive directives to Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. The directives say the sowing process may be carried out within the precincts of scheduled timeframe, only recommended seeds may be used, close watch be kept on the movement of pests and timely sprinkling be done to check its spread, the statement said.

ICAR has also provided a list of the pest-resistant seeds for the farmers. This year, emphasis is being given on the timely sowing of cotton.

The sowing process of cotton would set in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan from the beginning of April.

Indias cotton output is estimated to be 353 lakh bales for the 2015-16 season, which began on October 1, as against 383 lakh bales in the previous year, according to Cotton Association of India (CAI).

Crop damage in the northern region due to the whitefly attack this year remains a cause of concern, CAI had said.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, the Haryana government had announced a compensation of Rs 967 crore for farmers whose cotton crop was damaged due to the whitefly and leaf curl virus attack during last kharif season.
As the city failed to get a place in the first list of 20 smart cities announced by Union urban development minister M Venkaiah Naidu in January 2016, the civic body seems least interested for inclusion in the second round of the competition.

It can be gauged from the fact that officials of the municipal corporation (MC) have not held a single meeting to discuss the agenda for preparations regarding the second round for the past two months.

Requesting anonymity, an official told HT that MC officials were not interested in again investing their time and energy in something that was quite unpredictable.

The MC has not held even a single meeting with the consultants for upgrading the smart city proposal. The only meeting that was conducted for smart city second phase was in Chandigarh last month, in which the department of local government gave directions to civic bodies for what was to be done for the upcoming round.

Moreover, the social media campaign of MC has gone off track and the civic body has also not been holding any other activity in the city to promote active participation of citizens. The city missed the smart city bus in the first round with tardy citizen participation also being one of the major reasons.

Notably, 23 cities were chosen in the first smart city round.

Jalandhar was at 27th position with a score of 53.8 while Amritsar was at 25th position with a score of 54.55. Only Ludhiana from the state was part of the first list.

If it was supposed to be a competition, the government should not have given leverage to cities that didnt even perform impressively on the indicators, said an official.

The MC is expected to submit the upgraded smart city proposal in the first week of May.

After Naidu announced the first list of smart cities on January 28, some states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar objected that not even a single city from their state had been chosen under the plan.

So as to provide an opportunity to those feeling left behind, on the next day, the government announced a fast-track list of 23 cities.

However, the development did not go down well with some of the cities who had failed to come in the first 20 by a shortfall of a few points.
Intensifying their protest against excise duty, local jewellers and goldsmiths on Monday forced the Amritsar-Howrah Express to halt at the Shivala railway crossing here.

Jewellers have been on a strike since March 2 protesting against the excise duty on non-silver jewellery items proposed in the Union budget besides the mandatory furnishing of permanent account number (PAN) details by customers for transactions above Rs 2 lakh.

Getting no respite from the Centre, thousands of protesters staged a dharna on the railway track. The blockade that started at 11am lasted for an hour and a half. Shouting slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and finance minister Arun Jaitley, the agitators said: We dont want acche din (good days) that have ruined us. Give us back our purane din (old days).

During the parliamentary elections of 2014, we extended unprecedented support to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with a hope that on coming into power its government would take care of traders interests. The BJP-led government, however, has outdone the previous United Progressive Alliance government in damaging our businesses. The BJP is no longer a pro-trader party, as it has marginalised us, said Amritsar Sarafa Association leader Anil Jain.

Jain said all jewellers and goldsmiths had come together to protest against the governments proposal. Today, we have blocked the rail traffic. If our voice is not heard by the government, we will just hand over keys of our shops to BJP legislators, he said.

Maninder Singh, a protesting goldsmith, said their shops were shut for the past one month, but the government did nothing to address their concerns. The objectionable move of the government has forced our community to come out on streets. If the decision is not reviewed, we will suffer huge losses, he said.

Representatives of the Amritsar Sarafa Association, Bullion Ornament Civil Line and District Swarankar Sangh also threatened to lay siege to the residence of Punjab local bodies minister Anil Joshi if the government failed to roll back the excise duty. Representatives of other traders bodies besides the Congress are also backing the stir.

Passengers of the Amritsar-Howrah Express were in for a major inconvenience as the train was halted at the railway crossing, which is far from the railway station. Passengers had to alight from the train at the protest site and move to their destinations from there. Also, the commuters passing the railway crossing remained stuck as the blockade was lifted after an hour and a half.

The blockade, however, remained peaceful as senior police officials oversaw security arrangements at the protest site.

Batala jewellers burn Jaitleys effigy, demand rollback

Raising slogans against the Union government for imposing 1% excise duty on gold and diamond ornaments, hundreds of jewellers took out a protest march here on Monday.

The protesters, who have been on a nationwide strike for a month, gathered at the Nehru gate and marched through various markets of the town. They also burnt the effigy of finance minister Arun Jaitley, who made the proposal in the recent Union budget.

Terming it a draconian law, Swarankar Sangh district president Ashok Luthra said it would push them into a deep financial mess and the government needed to review its decision.

During their tenure, the Congress-led UPA government, too, had imposed similar policies on the goldsmith community. However, a 27-day indefinite strike forced the government to withdraw the policy. This time, we have been protesting for the past 28 days and wont give up till the government revokes its decision, he said.

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Union minister for food processing and member of Parliament from here Harsimrat Kaur Badal, who visited the city after three months, laid foundation stones of 12 development works worth Rs 73 crore on Sunday as the state is heading towards assembly elections in 2017.

Accompanied by a battery of senior officials of the district administration, Harsimrat also interacted with local residents, who complained of lack of interest on the part of the municipal corporation in redressing their grievances.

Meanwhile, the Union minister restrained herself from meeting the jewellers, who have been protesting for the past more than 20 days against the Union governments decision to levy excise duty on gold.

Reiterating the development agenda of the Punjab government, Harsimrat said the SAD-BJP government initiated record development works in the state during the past nine years of its tenure. In its 2002-2007 tenure, the Congress government spent Rs 22,000 crore on development works, while the SAD-BJP government invested Rs 1,28,637 crore on development works from March 2007 to 2015, she claimed while addressing a public meeting at Shakti Nagar.

Speaking on the SYL issue, Harsimrat said Punjab always faced discrimination at the hands of successive Congress governments, but chief minister Parkash Singh Badal has taken a historic decision by bringing a bill in the assembly to dump this issue forever. We respect the Supreme Court orders, but the state government has its own stand and would not allow any construction since Punjab has no water to donate it to other states, Harsimrat said.

Lashing out at Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal for following a dual policy on the SYL issue, Harsimrat said the AAP convener has once again betrayed people by changing his stand on the issue for his political interests.

AAP is mere a B-team of the Congress as its leaders never took any strong action against corrupt Congress leaders of Delhi inspite of having evidence against them, she said.

AAP has its no base in Punjab, so it will soon meet its end like the PPP, she added.

Besides laying the foundation stone of one-stop crisis centre, the MP laid stones of development works including recarpeting of roads, interlocking tiles on pavements and rain water discharge system on the Court Road, Mall Road, Janata Nagar, Shakti Nagar, Paras Ram Nagar, Sangauna Basti, Amarpura Basti, Bangi Nagar and Sanjay Nagar. Foundation stones of ran animal shed, staff residence quarters and a boundary wall at the Regional Research And Training Centre at Kaljharani village were also laid .

Declare CM candidate, Majithia dares Kejriwal

Punjab revenue minister Bikram Singh Majithia on Sunday challenged AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal to declare his partys CM candidate for Punjab.

Majithia was interacting with the media after distributing development grants worth Rs 1.65 crore to Jaintipur, Adda Jaintipur and Paprpur villages, besides reviewing the ongoing development works.

Describing Kejriwal as anti-Punjab leader, Majithia said the real face of Kejriwal has been exposed from his stand on the SYL issue.

He expressed surprise that the AAP convener was busy in dreaming that his party would form government in Punjab, but he didnt had a Punjabi face to declare as his partys CM candidate. He said instead of giving prominence to any of his party leader from the state, Kejriwal is trying his best to impose non-Punjabi leaders in the state unit.

Majithia said Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) was working on a mission to ensure overall development of the state and on the other hand AAP was best for gossips only. On the SYL issue, Majithia said 70% people of the state were earning their bread and butter from agriculture and state was facing water shortage, thus, state has not a single drop to share.

He said SAD was ready to make any sacrifice to safeguard the interests of the state.
The Panjab University (PU) senate on Sunday approved a new policy on protection, prevention, prohibition from sexual harassment at workplace. The new policy has a provision of penalty for guilty students which may extend up to Rs 50,000. The rest of the policy will be in accordance with The Sexual Harassment of Women (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.

As per the approved policy, in case of employees, the penalty will be as per the central legislation.

While in case of students, they can be restricted to participate in any event of the department or the university, suspension from classes for the entire course, expulsion from the university and besides this, a fine may be imposed extending to Rs 50,000 but not less than Rs 10,000. It also states that if any issue arises in giving effect to the policy, the syndicate will have the power to remove the difficulty and make changes in the policy.

In the changed policy tabled at the senate meet, Panjab University Committee Against Sexual Harassment (PUCASH) recommended compensation to be paid by the respondent to the victim keeping in view the mental/physical/psychological impact of sexual harassment on the victim.

During the meeting, Prof Rajesh Gill asked whether the policy has been changed completely to which the Dean University Instructions (DUI) replied that the policy has been changed in accordance with the central law. Professor Gill said, If we consider the sexual harassment policies of other Universities, they have given in details all the definitions and consist of around 100 pages unlike the PU policy which is completed in five pages.

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In spite of sustained student protests, Panjab University senate on Sunday approved 5% fee hike for all courses of university departments and its regional centres on Sunday.

The decision means that from the new academic session starting July, the tuition fee will see a minimum increase of Rs 500 and a maximum increase of Rs 1200 depending on the course.

PU vice-chancellor Arun Kumar Grover justified the fee hike stating that 5% fee hike was nominal.

This is just a little increase in the fees. We have already set up a think tank to look into the financial conditions of the varsity. We have been sending the outputs of think tank to MHRD and other stake holders including Punjab government, he added.

Senator Varinder Gill highlighted in the meeting that students have been on hunger strike against the decision, but the V-C remained unruffled.

The V-C added, We should be able to financially support all students willing to study on our campus. We have decided that the students whose parents earning is less than Rs 5 lakh instead of Rs 2.5 lakh can seek financial support. We will also strengthen our Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes cell.

The V-C also proposed a committee to suggest ways in which the cash prizes awarded by the university could be increased.

Cash prizes of Rs 300 and Rs 500 dont look nice. These are not the amounts to be given. We should create some money. We can probably utilise the part of income that will come out of enhancement of fees, in this regard.

Additional solicitor general of India in the Punjab and Haryana high court Satya Pal Jain said, I strongly feel that there should be a different fee structure for EWS students. 

President of Panjab University Campus Students Council (PUCSC) Jasmeen Kang said, We are satisfied that at least the senate addressed the matters taken up by me with the vice-chancellor and dean student welfare in the last meeting.

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Senior officials of Punjabs food and civil supplies department have approached the Centre for releasing the cash credit limit (CCL) to procure wheat, which gets underway on April 1.

A team of state officials on Monday gave a presentation before the Union finance ministry officials on the states demand for CCL and the good practices it adopted in spending it, but there has been no immediate commitment from the Centre, sources said. Officials also took up the states past claims.

It is the fourth season in a row when the state government has to make up a strong case before the Centre for release of funds for procurement it carries out on behalf of the Centre. The state expects 110 lakh tonnes of wheat to arrive at procurement centres of the state from a total expected production of 170 lakh tonnes.

To be on the safe side, the states procurement agencies are making arrangements for procurement of 120 lakh tonnes, hence seeking CCL of Rs 20,000 crore to give a minimum support price of Rs 1,525 per quintal to farmers, plus the taxes levied by the state government.

Top officials of the state food and civil supplies department, including secretary Raj Kamal Chaudhary, are in Delhi meeting officials of the agriculture and finance ministries putting up a case for release of the CCL. Chaudhary gave a presentation before the officials of the Union finance ministry, but there was reportedly no breakthrough. The Centres decision may take a few days to come. Sources say Punjab food and civil supplies minister Adesh Partap Singh Kairon will also meet Union finance ministry officials on Tuesday.

The Punjab government is claiming receivables of Rs 26,000 crore from the Centre of the previous procurement seasons. Sources said the Centre had asked Punjab to explain the usage of Rs 50,000 crore it received during different seasons in the form of CCL.

A three-member committee formed by the Centre to settle claims with Punjab, in its recent report, has recommended that claims be settled from the current season and not from retrospective effect. But sources said the state government is pressing the Centre to settle the pending claims from back date.

The Centre has agreed on a number of issues raised by Punjab, such as compound interest levied by banks on the CCL in usage by the state whereas the Centre is reimbursing simple interest for the said period and amount, and we want the settlement to be done from retrospective effect, an officer said, on condition of anonymity.

When CCL was withheld

It was in the 2014 kharif season when the Centre withheld the release of CCL asking Punjab to first settle the accounts for Rs 42,000 crore of the previous CCLs with the Food Corporation of India.

Before that, the Centre has been finding faults with Punjabs use of CCL over the past three to four years, and in rabi season of 2014, the Centre had told Punjab to settle the outstanding accounts. The Centre wanted Punjab to maintain fiscal discipline, whereas the state said it had to spend from its own pocket to procure paddy on behalf of the Centre. After kharif 2014, Punjab had to try hard for the release of CCL before the onset of every rabi and kharif season.

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Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Charanjit Singh Channi on Monday asked deputy chief minister Sukhbir Singh Badal to clarify his claims on the issue of the state being power surplus.

Referring to the RTI information revealed by Jasdeepak Singh, convener, RTI cell of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee, Channi said the SAD-BJP government had purchased power worth Rs 58,461 crore since they came into power in 2007.

Channi asked the deputy CM to explain to people why this exorbitant amount of power is being bought every year if the state is power surplus.

He said the power purchased by Punjab State Power Corporation Limited is increasing every year since 2011-12. In 2011-12, it was worth Rs 5,285 crore, which rose to Rs 7,219 crore the next year, Rs 8,222 crore in 2013-14, Rs 10,999 crore in 2014-15 and from April to July in 2015 the purchase was worth Rs 4,966 crore.

The power purchased from the Rajpura plant owned by L&T and the Talwandi Sabo plant owned by Sterlite for the four months in the 2015 amounts to Rs 2,928 crore. The debt on the PSPCL since September 2015 is Rs 20,837 crore of which 75% is to be borne by the Punjab government, which is already bankrupt, Channi claimed.

He asked the state government to check transmission and distribution losses and reduce them to cover up the PSPCLs losses.
Led by Sabh Da Bhala Humanity Club Batala president Navtej Singh Guggu, women whose kin have been trapped in drug menace, and social workers continued their hunger strike on Sunday outside Bularia Park here seeking helpline number to be introduced for complaining the police about drug traders.

Besides Guggu, social workers Parwinder Kaur (Batala), Rajinder Kaur (Batala), Daljit Kaur (Dera Baba Nanak), Gurmeet Kaur (Batala) and Usha Rani (Dasuha) also sat on the strike that started on Saturday and would continue till Monday.

Speaking to HT, Guggu said the drug smugglers have pushed our society into critical condition as their practice made the youth addicted to dangerous drugs. The addiction of heroin and other synthetic drugs have claimed many precious lives of youths so far. So, curbing the drug traders should be on top priorities of the administration, he said. As the government has introduced toll free helpline number for women to curb crime against them, similar number of three digits should be there to curb drug menace. There should be provision that anybody can report about the drug trader who comes to his notice, at this number. On the basis of this information provided at this number, action against the smuggler should be made mandatory and name of the complainant should not be disclosed, he said.

He added, Secondly, the smugglers whose names are mentioned on banner displayed on the premises of stir must be arrested at the earliest. If the government fails to meet our demands, staging protest outside the DC office at Gurdaspur would be our next action plan.

My only 21-year-old son had taken drug injection on his right arm due to which the arm had to be cut by doctors. Right now, he is in critical condition and receiving treatment at Guru Nanak Hospital, Amritsar, for the past one month with the help of the club, said Gurmeet Kaur, resident of Batala, while telling her story of her sorrows. Similar, story was told by Usha Rani whose 23-year-old son, brother of four sisters, has been trapped in drug menace and also in serious condition in same hospital.

In addition, Rachna, Santosh, Bhappi and Jeeto whose husbands died of drug addiction, were also present on the occasion to appeal to the government to save the society and take measure to stop further destruction.

Sahib Singh (Jivan-Jach Sansatha), Manjinder Singh (Anti-drug Federation Punjab), Rajan Singh (Khalsa Sangharsh Committee) and representatives of various social and student organisations were there to support the cause of the agitators.
Contrary to media reports, actor Madonna Sebastian will not be a part of actor Vishal Krishnas next Tamil film. Currently busy shooting for the Telugu remake of Premam, she was last seen in recent Tamil hit Kadhalum Kadhandu Pogum.

Madonna part of Vishals next project is just a rumour. She hasnt signed any new Tamil project yet, Madonnas manager said.

Read: Cant say no to masala films, says Premam girl Madonna Sebastian

She was rumoured to have signed director Surajs next Tamil directorial Kathi Sandai. Most popular for playing a character called Celine from Malayalam blockbuster Premam, shes reprising the same role in the films Telugu remake.

Watch Madonna croon the song Veruthe in with the band Everafter:

Her next Malayalam release is King Liar with Dileep. Its an out-and-out masala film. In Kadhalum Kadhandu Pogum, which released in cinemas on Friday, she plays a role of Yazhini, who works in the IT industry.

Watch Madonna in the trailer of her new film, King Liar:

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Actor-filmmaker Samuthirakani, says he is surprised and feels honoured after winning the Best Supporting Actor National Film Award for his performance in Tamil cop drama Visaaranai.

This comes as a sweet surprise. I feel honoured, and I would like to thank director Vetrimaaran and producer Dhanush for giving me an opportunity to be part of this important film. Tamil cinema needs more such films, said Samuthirakani.

Visaaranai, on police brutality, also bagged two more awards for best Tamil film and best editing for late Kishore TE.

Visaaranai review: Vetrimaaran shows realism at its harshest best

Visaaranai is based on the true experience of a Coimbatore-based autorickshaw driver, M Chandra Kumar who wrote a book, Lock Up, narrating his 13 days in a small prison cell in Andhra Pradesh.

Read: After Visaaranai, Vetrimaaran to adapt another book into a film

Inspired from true events and partly based on the novel Lock Up, the film is about four immigrant workers who were wrongly pinned for a crime they never committed. Samuthirakani said he would like to dedicate his award to his mentor, late filmmaker K Balachander.

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Take that sneer off your face and listen up: Scientists have identified a single not face expression that is a universal part of language, being interpreted across many cultures as the embodiment of negative emotion.

It consists of a furrowed brow, pressed lips and raised chin, and because we make it when we convey negative sentiments, such as I do not agree, researchers are calling it the not face.

The study also shows that our facial muscles contract to form the not face at the same frequency at which we speak or sign words in a sentence.

We all instinctively make the not face as if it were part of our spoken or signed language, researchers said.

This study strongly suggests a link between language and facial expressions of emotion, said Aleix Martinez from Ohio State University.

Researchers sat 158 students in front of a digital camera. The students were filmed and photographed as they had a casual conversation with the person behind the camera in their native language.

Read: How you move your body gives an insight into your personality

The students belonged to four groups, which were chosen to represent a wide variety of grammatical structures -English, Spanish, Mandarin, and American Sign Language (ASL).

Like other forms of sign language, ASL combines hand gestures, head and body movements and facial expressions to communicate individual words or phrases.

Students either memorised and recited negative sentences that researchers had written for them ahead of time, or the students were prompted with questions that were likely to illicit disagreement, such as a study shows that tuition should increase 30 per cent. What do you think?.

Researchers have identified a single, universal facial expression that is interpreted across many cultures as the embodiment of negative emotion. The look proved identical for native speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese and American Sign Language. (Image courtesy of The Ohio State University)

In all four groups - speakers of English, Spanish, Mandarin and ASL - the researchers identified clear grammatical markers of negation.

The students answers translated to statements like that is not a good idea, andthey should not do that.

Researchers manually tagged images of the students speaking, frame by frame, to show which facial muscles were moving and in which directions. Then computer algorithms searched the thousands of resulting frames to find commonalities among them.

Read: Women more sensitive to annoying behaviour than men

A not face emerged - the furrowed brows of anger combined with the raised chin of disgust and the pressed-together lips of contempt.

Regardless of language - and regardless of whether they were speaking or signing - the participants faces displayed these same three muscle movements when they communicated negative sentences.

Researchers discovered that ASL speakers sometimes make the not face instead of signing the word not - a use of facial expression in ASL that was previously undocumented.

The findings were published in the journal Cognition.

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A documentary that claims to have a link between vaccines and autism by former British medical researcher has been removed from the list of films to be shown at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York, Robert De Niro, the festivals founder said.

Vaxxed: From Cover-UP to Catastrophe had drawn protests from critics who said including the film in the festival line-up amounted to siding with the anti-vaccine movement spawned by the discredited research.

My intent in screening this film was to provide an opportunity for conversation around an issue that is deeply personal to me and my family, De Niro, who has a child with autism, said in a statement.

Read: Robert De Niro is only one whose feet Ive touched, says Farhan Akhtar

But after reviewing it over the past few days with the Tribeca Film Festival team and others from the scientific community, we do not believe it contributes to or furthers the discussion I had hoped for.

The films director, Andrew Wakefield, is the researcher whose 1998 paper claiming a link between the MMR vaccine and autism set off an anti-vaccine movement that medical authorities say has led to deaths from outbreaks of preventable childhood diseases like measles.

Read: My competition is with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, says Anupam Kher

A probe by the British General Medical Council found that Wakefield had acted dishonestly in publishing his results.

Watch the trailer of Vaxxed: From Cover-UP to Catastrophe here:

British medical journal The Lancet retracted its publication of the study, saying parts of it had been falsified. Wakefield was subsequently barred from practicing medicine in Britain.

Read: Scorsese and De Niro to reunite after 20 years in The Irishman

The festival doesnt seek to avoid or shy away from controversy, De Niro said.

However, we have concerns with certain things in this film that we feel prevent us from presenting it in the festival programme. We have decided to remove it from our schedule.

The Tribeca Film Festival runs April 13-24.

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India managed to pull Australia back after a flying start, but in a curious case, skipper MS Dhoni gave Ravichandran Ashwin, his main strike bowler, just two overs. Australia ended up scoring 161 for six.

Before the start of the match, a virtual quarterfinal as the teams fought for the second spot in Super 10 Group 2 behind New Zealand, Ashwin was expected to be Dhonis go-to man. But the spinner looked off-colour, conceding as many as 31 runs in his two overs.

Australia came out all guns blazing as Usman Khawaja and Aaron Finch raised 52 in just 3.4 overs. After Jasprit Bumrah conceded 17 runs in the second over with Khawaja hitting four fours, Dhoni gave the next over to Ashwin, to turn things around. But Ashwin was treated with disdain by Finch, who carted two sixes over long on against the bowler who was almost unplayable in the earlier games.

Under pressure, Ashwin bowled wide outside leg stump as an attempted carrom ball failed, only to see the ball beat Dhoni and roll to the boundary for five extras. As many as 22 came off that over. It took a combined effort by Ashish Nehra, Bumrah and then the spinners to keep the scoring in check.

While the pacers managed to keep things quiet, left-arm spinners Ravindra Jadeja and Yuvraj Singh bowled sharply, giving away just 39 runs in six overs. Yuvraj, given a bowl for the first time in the tournament, took one for 19 while Jadeja conceded just 20 in his three overs although he went wicketless.

Ashwin did come back for one more over and had David Warner stumped for six. With that wicket, he became the first India bowler to pick 50 wickets in this format. But that was it for the spinner as Dhoni never turned to him in the death overs.

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One hundred million children in China are growing up with limited or no parental care as people move to cities to work, leaving their children behind in villages, experts have said.

Estimates indicate at least 60 million children are left in rural areas and at least 36 million children are unregistered floating population who live in one city while their parents work in another.

The new statistic is likely to be controversial as the official figure for left-behind children in China has hovered around the 61-million mark for the past couple of years.

State media quoted professor Song Yinghui from Beijing Normal University as saying that some 100 million were left-behind children and they posed a great challenge to social managements.

The number100 millionis about one-third of Chinese children under 18, which means that one in three children in China is left-behind or travels with parents, Song was quoted as saying by China Daily newspaper.

Song discussed the estimates at a seminar in Tianjin over the weekend as the government prepares to conduct the first census of left-behind children in 2016.

According to state-run Global Times newspaper, a senior government official who attended the seminar did not endorse the number put forward by Song but confirmed the upcoming census, indicating the government is taking the matter seriously.

Though the phenomenon has been witnessed in China for the past couple of decades, it was only in February that the State Council, or the countrys cabinet, released a circular that said the government will attempt to reduce the number by 2020.

It notified that the ministry of civil affairs will lead efforts to tackle the problem, which is more acute in poorer provinces from where millions of workers migrate in search of a livelihood.

The problem quite clearly is serious.

Left-behind childrens tragedies may hit the front pages of newspapers for a few days, but when the stories go cold, peoples attention shifts. The key to solving the problem is to establish a system to help them and prevent such tragedies, Liu Wenkui, secretary general of the China Foundation for Poverty Alleviation, told China Daily.

It is also a complex problem as the issue of poverty is closely linked to it.

Left-behind children dont necessarily suffer economic woes but rather psychological ones. The poorest families we encounter are those whose parents are not migrant workers and who choose to stay in the villages, said Liu Xinyu, founder of an NGO which helps such children.
The National League for Democracy (NLD) in Myanmar is said to have accepted Indias advice relating to the composition of their government, which is scheduled to be sworn in on Wednesday.

A high-level source revealed India had played a helpful role in suggesting to the Aung San Suu Kyi-led party that they would be well advised to control the ministry of information, so as to have a say in the new administrations communications. A doctor-turned journalist, Pe Myint, is expected to be the minister for information.

There is some anxiety on the streets of Yangon, Myanmars bustling metropolis, after comments by the countrys Senior General, Min Aung Hlaing, over the weekend, confirming that the NLD-led government would only establish a largely civilian government, not pure democracy.

Hlaing specified that the armed forces would co-operate to bring about prosperity if obstacles like failure to abide by the rule of law and regulations and armed insurgencies are overcome. Then only will there be advancement on the path of democracy, he asserted.

Suu Kyis remarks to BBC after her landslide election victory in November were an attempt to throw a spanner in the works would sabotage the will of the people. Suu Kyi, 70, did not attend the parade.

Representatives of the armed forces will continue to retain the home affairs portfolio. It is not only responsible for maintaining peace and internal security, but all civil servants, right down to district level, report to it.

A western diplomat remarked the armed forces could indirectly impede implementation of policies of ministries being administered by the NLD.

At the same time, Suu Kyis choice of finance and commerce ministers has triggered a controversy. Both are said to have fake degrees from American universities, one of these allegedly a Pakistani scam.

The countrys constitution debars a person with foreign children from becoming the countrys president. So the NLD administration will have an economist and close associate of Suu Kyi, Htin Kyaw, as president-elect, not Suu Kyi.

Yet Daw Suu has made no bones about who will remain the boss.

I will make all the decisions. It is as simple as that, she categorically told BBC after the elections.

While this has not been officially announced, it appears to be an open secret that Suu Kyi may control as many as four departments in the government  foreign affairs, presidents office, education and energy & electric power.

Thant Myint U, a Cambridge and Harvard educated historian and grandson of U Thant, once secretary-general of the United Nations, in his book, Where China Meets India, portrays Myanmar as a battleground between India and China.

Pertinently, Suu Kyi is on record saying: Myanmar can play an important role in improving ties between India and China. Time will tell whether this comes true.
Father Thomas Uzhunnalil, a Catholic priest abducted earlier this month during a raid on an old peoples home in Yemen by terrorists, was reportedly crucified on Friday, according to an Austrian archbishop.

Several reports in news outlets linked to the church quoted Cardinal Christoph Schonborn of Vienna as saying during Easter vigil mass that Uzhunnalil had been executed by the Islamic State just as the Romans had crucified Jesus Christ. The Washington Times too reported on the matter.

However, a senior official of the external affairs ministry said in New Delhi that there was no independent confirmation of the development.

Officials of the church in India said they were hoping the reports about Uzhunnalil were incorrect and that he could be rescued. Representatives of the Salesian priests order in Bengaluru too have said they have no information on his fate.

Yemeni security forces outside an elderly care home after it was attacked by gunmen in Aden on March 4, 2016. (AP)

Uzhunnalil, 55, belongs to Ramapuram village in Keralas Kottayam district. He was abducted when suspected IS fighters stormed the old peoples home in the Yemeni port city of Aden on March 4 and gunned down 16 people, including an Indian nun. The home was being run by Mother Teresas Missionaries of Charirty.

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj had said on Saturday that the government was making all efforts to secure the release of the priest following his abduction by a terror group.

Several Christian groups, including the Franciscan Sisters of Siessen, had said that they had received reports that Uzhunnalil was being tortured and would be crucified on Good Friday, which marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Bishop Paul Hinder, who heads the Catholic Church in Yemen, said the Missionaries of Charity home had received numerous threats but its staff had refused to leave.

Read | Over 40 Indians abducted by IS, kin living on Centres assurances
A fire erupted at a high-rise tower in the the United Arab Emirates city of Ajman on Monday night, the latest in a series of skyscraper blazes in the Gulf nation.

The police gave no details on casualties in tweets confirming the blaze. Social media users shared images of the fire late Monday showing bright yellow flames spreading up the side of the building as chunks of burning material tumbled to the ground.

The Dubai-based Gulf News newspaper quoted Ajman Civil Defense director Brig. Saleh Saeed al-Matroushi as saying firefighters were at the scene. An official reached by The Associated Press at the civil defence confirmed that firefighting efforts were ongoing but had no further details.
Bangladeshs High Court on Monday summarily rejected a 28-year-old writ petition seeking the removal of Islam as the state religion of the Muslim-majority country.

Former military dictator HM Ershad declared Islam the state religion through a constitutional amendment in 1988 to win popular support in the face of a campaign by major political parties to oust him from power.

On Monday, a bench of three judges made the decision on the ground that the committee under which the petition was filed in 1988 had no legitimacy as it was not a registered body, said Murad Reza, an additional attorney general who opposed the petition on behalf of the government.

Also, almost half of the group of 15 eminent citizens who filed the petition have died, and Islamist groups have at various times described the petitioners as atheists.

The decision means Islam will stay as the state religion in the nations charter, which also speaks of equal rights for other religious minorities, Reza said.

The writ petition was filed by the Autocracy and Communalism Resistance Committee but this committee was never registered with the government. The citizens filed the petition under this committees banner, they did not sign it individually. So I think the rejection was rightly done, Reza said after the court gave its ruling.

In 2011, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina brought back secularism as a pillar of the Constitution, but retained Islam as the state religion, understandably because of its popular support in a country where more than 90% of the population is Muslim.

Subrata Chowdhury, the lead lawyer for the petitioners, said he had no clear idea why his petition was rejected.

We will be able to talk about this in detail after seeing the full observation of the court, Chowdhury said. We have to wait for that.

Hefajat-e-Islam, a major Islamist group, welcomed the courts decision. This is the victory of the Muslim ummah, said Mujibur Rahman Hamidi, a leader of the group.

Fazlul Karim Kashemy, another leader of the group, said non-Muslims rights will not be affected by the decision.

We have been living together for long, we will stay like this. Our co-existence will not be affected, he said as his supporters surrounded him outside the court.
A Pakistani-origin shopkeeper in the UK has been brutally killed by another Muslim in a religiously prejudiced attack hours after he posted an Easter message on Facebook to my beloved Christian nation.

Asad Shah, 40, a devout Muslim originally from the Pakistani city of Rabwah, was stabbed 30 times and had his head stamped on during a savage attack at his store in Glasgow last Thursday, British media reported on Monday.

On Friday, police confirmed that a 32-year-old Muslim man, who travelled over 320 km to kill the trader belonging to the Ahmadiyya minority community, had been arrested in connection with Shahs death.

A spokeswoman added: A full investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death which is being treated as religiously prejudiced.

On Sunday, prominent members of Glasgows Muslim community called for calm and solidarity after police confirmed that the man arrested in connection with the killing was also a Muslim.

Following the revelation, Humza Yousaf, the Scottish governments only Muslim minister, immediately responded in a tweet: No ifs, no buts, no living in denial vile cancer of sectarianism needs stamped out wherever it exists including amongst Muslims.

Shah, whose final Facebook update, posted a few hours before his death, offered Easter greetings to my beloved Christian nation, was a member of the minority Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Pakistan.

The Ahmadiyya community faces persecution in Pakistan and is treated with open hostility by many orthodox Muslims.

Meanwhile, over 70,000 pounds has been raised on an online fundraising page for the family of Shah, the Guardian reported.

Over 3,500 people have donated on the GoFundMe page, which was created on Good Friday by some of his customers to raise money for his family, the report said. PTI AKJ AKJ
Pakistani authorities on Monday launched a hunt for the militants behind a suicide bomb that killed at least 65 people in an attack that targeted Christians and was claimed by a Taliban faction that once had ties with Islamic State.

Most of the victims of the bomb attack at a park in the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday evening were women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing.

We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to overrun our life and liberty, military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

innocent brothers,sisters&children to justice &will never allow these savage inhumans to over run our life and liberty-3/3  Gen Asim Bajwa (@AsimBajwaISPR) 27 March 2016

Officials said at least 65 people were killed and about 300 wounded. The death toll was expected to rise.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the September 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

A faction of the Pakistani Taliban called Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, and issued a direct challege to the government.

The target was Christians, said a faction spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said.

We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore.

Watch | Tragic aftermath of the Lahore suicide blast

<span itemprop="name" content="Watch | Tragic aftermath of the Lahore suicide attack"></span><span itemprop="description" content="A suicide bomber targeting Christians killed at least 70 people in a Lahore Park on Sunday. The attack was claimed by a Taliban faction called Jamaat-ul-Ahrar that once declared ties with Islamic State. The explosion took place near the children&#x27;s rides in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park which was crowded with women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. The bodies continued to arrive at the city&#x27;s hospital morgues early on Monday, where worried friends and family also looked for and registered loved ones still missing. Pakistani authorities have now launched a massive hunt for suspected militants."></span><span itemprop="duration" content="63"></span><span itemprop="thumbnail" content="http://cfvod.kaltura.com/p/1679921/sp/167992100/thumbnail/entry_id/0_ubxur36d/version/100012/acv/192"></span><span itemprop="width" content="640"></span><span itemprop="height" content="362"></span>

The group has claimed responsibility for several big attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. It declared allegiance to the Islamic State but later said it was rejoining the Taliban insurgency.

While the army, police, government and Western interests have been the prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also attacked.

Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under a major crackdown launched after Taliban gunmen massacred 134 children at a military-run school in Peshawar in December 2014.

Lahore is the capital of Pakistans richest province, Punjab, and is widely seen as the political heartland of Sharif and his ruling party.

Sharifs office condemned the blast as a cowardly act and said a response had been ordered, without elaborating.

Pakistans security agencies have long been accused of nurturing some militants to use for help in pursuing security objectives in Afghanistan and against old rival India.

The Pakistani Taliban are fighting to topple the government and install a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Sharifs opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.
The presidents of Russia and Iran agreed on Monday to step up bilateral contacts, including over the Syrian conflict, in which both countries are allies of President Bashar al-Assad.

The Syrian government and Western-backed opposition are currently holding UN-mediated peace talks as part of a diplomatic push launched with US-Russian support to end the five-year conflict in which more than a quarter of a million people have been killed.

The Kremlin said President Vladimir Putin and Irans Hassan Rouhani had exchanged views on the conflict and a range of other topical issues during a telephone call. It gave no further details.

Rouhani was quoted as saying cooperation and coordination between Tehran and Moscow were essential for peace in Syria.

During the ceasefire, the political talks (among Syrian groups) should be accelerated but this should not halt the fighting against terrorists in Syria, Irans state news agency IRNA quoted the president as saying.

Both the Kremlin and the secretary of the Iranian National Security Council (NSC) have congratulated Assad on the success of his forces in recapturing the desert city of Palmyra from Islamic State militants.

The Iranian government and armed forces will continue their full support of Syria and the Axis of Resistance, NSC secretary Ali Shamkhani was quoted as saying.

Iran refers to the regional anti-Israel alliance as the axis of resistance.

Syrian government forces backed by heavy Russian air support drove Islamic State out of Palmyra on Sunday, inflicting what the army called a mortal blow to militants who seized the city last year and dynamited its ancient temples.
Taliban militants fired explosives into Afghanistans Parliament compound on Monday as the top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior were due to speak, lawmakers and the insurgents said.

Lawmakers said no one was reported wounded. But Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed responsibility for the attack and said it caused heavy casualties.

The Taliban often claim responsibility for attacks and have been known to exaggerate fatality figures.

Three rockets were fired at the parliament but they did not hit the main building, said Safiullah Muslim, a lawmaker from Badakhshan province. It happened when the session was ongoing.

There were conflicting reports as to whether the explosions were caused by long-range rocket artillery or shoulder-fired rocket-propelled grenades.

The violence comes a day after a suicide bomb blast in Lahore killed 72 people. A faction of the Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted Christians.

The new Parliament building was completed by India in 2015 as a mark of friendship and cooperation to help rebuild Afghanistan, and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last December.

The foundation stone for it was laid in August 2005 by the last king of Afghanistan, Zahir Shah, in the presence of President Hamid Karzai and then Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh.

Indias Central Public Works Department was the consultant for the project and the contract was awarded to an Indian infrastructure company in 2008.

This is the second major attack targeting the complex in a year. On June 23, 2015, seven Taliban militants carried out a brazen offensive on the Parliament, triggering massive explosions and gunfire that killed two civilians and injured 31 people. Security forces ultimately gunned down the militants.

The new building is corralled in an 84-acre plot on the outskirts of Kabul and fringes historical landmarks such as Amanullah Khans Palace and the Queens Palace.

(with agency inputs)
The Republican governor of the US state of Georgia said on Monday he would veto a religious freedoms bill that sparked a protest movement amid accusations it would infringe upon gay rights.

Major American corporations such as Disney joined a push to get Governor Nathan Deal to block the measure, which was approved by lawmakers and was awaiting his signature.

The bill, described as a measure to protect religious freedoms, would have made it legal for pastors to refuse to perform gay marriages and allowed churches and faith-based organizations, on the basis of their religious beliefs, to decline to hire or provide services to gays.

I do not think we have to discriminate against anyone to protect the faith-based community in Georgia of which my family and I are a part of for all of our lives, Deal told a news conference.

Several large companies had called on the governor not to sign the bill into law, with Disney threatening to take its business elsewhere if no action was taken against it.

Celebrities including Anne Hathaway and Julianne Moore also weighed in, urging the governor to veto the measure.

Our actions on (the bill) are not just about protecting the faith-based community or providing a business-friendly climate for job growth in Georgia, Deal said.

This is about the character of our state and the character of its people.

A similar protest movement was launched against a measure in North Carolina deemed discriminatory against members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.

That bill, which among other things stipulates which bathrooms transgender students must use, was signed into law by Governor Pat McCrory, also a Republican, on Wednesday.
Pakistani authorities launched a hunt on Monday for militants behind a suicide bomb that killed at least 72 people in an attack that targeted Christians. The attack was claimed by a Taliban faction that once declared ties with Islamic State.

Most of the victims of the bomb attack at a park in the eastern city of Lahore on Sunday evening were women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing.

We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty, military spokesperson Asim Bajwa said in a post on Twitter.

Officials said at least 72 people were killed and about 200 wounded. The death toll was expected to rise.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the September 11, 2001, al Qaeda attacks on the United States.

A faction of the Pakistani Taliban called Jamaat ul Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack, and issued a direct challenge to the government.

In pics | Terror strikes Lahore: Pakistan suicide bombing kills 65

The target was Christians, said a faction spokesperson, Ehsanullah Ehsan.

We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore.

The group has claimed responsibility for several attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. It declared allegiance to the Islamic State but later said it was rejoining the Taliban insurgency.

While the army, police, government and Western interests have been prime targets of the Pakistani Taliban and their allies, Christians and other religious minorities have also attacked.

Watch | Aftermath of the Lahore suicide blast

<span itemprop="name" content="Watch | Tragic aftermath of the Lahore suicide blast"></span><span itemprop="description" content="A suicide bomber targeting Christians killed at least 70 people in a Lahore Park on Sunday. The attack was claimed by a Taliban faction called Jamaat-ul-Ahrar that once declared ties with Islamic State. The explosion took place near the children&#x27;s rides in Gulshan-e-Iqbal park which was crowded with women and children enjoying an Easter weekend outing. The bodies continued to arrive at the city&#x27;s hospital morgues early on Monday, where worried friends and family also looked for and registered loved ones still missing. Pakistani authorities have now launched a massive hunt for suspected militants."></span><span itemprop="duration" content="63"></span><span itemprop="thumbnail" content="http://cfvod.kaltura.com/p/1679921/sp/167992100/thumbnail/entry_id/0_ubxur36d/version/100012/acv/192"></span><span itemprop="width" content="640"></span><span itemprop="height" content="362"></span>

Nearly 80 people were killed in a suicide bomb attack on a church in the northwestern city of Peshawar in 2013.

Security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of suspected militants under a major crackdown launched after Taliban gunmen massacred 134 children at a military-run school in Peshawar in December 2014.

Lahore is the capital of Pakistans richest province, Punjab, and is widely seen as the political heartland of Sharif and his ruling party.

Sharifs office condemned the blast as a cowardly act and said a response had been ordered, without elaborating.

Pakistans security agencies have long been accused of nurturing militants to use for help in pursuing security objectives in Afghanistan and against old rival, India.

The Pakistani Taliban are fighting to topple the government and install a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Sharifs opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.

Read | Lahore: Suicide attack by Taliban faction targeting Christians kills 65
A pack of wolves in western Wyoming killed 19 elk in what is known as an extremely rare "surplus killing." Wildlife officials found the carcasses of 17 calves and two adults on a snowy plain near the tiny town of Bondurant.

Predators such as mountain lions, bears and wolves are known to engage in surplus kills, taking down more prey than they can eat and abandoning the rest. And while it is not unusual for wolves to kill one or two elk a night in that part of the state, having killed 19 in one night is rare.

"It's rare at this magnitude," said John Lund, regional wildlife supervisor for Wyoming's Game and Fish Department. "We've documented it before but have not documented it to that extreme."

Lund said the culprits might be a pack of nine wolves known as the Rim Pack. Wolves, however, are protected under the Endangered Species Act, so there is nothing the state can do about them or their mass killings.

"We can't take any action proactively," Lund added. "It's frustrating for state wildlife management."

Biologists and wildlife officials explained that wolves tend to kill more than they can eat during the winter, when frigid temperatures preserve the killed prey for later consumption.

Prior to this surplus killing, there was an estimated 1,100 elk living in the area. Lund said that pack of nine wolves is allegedly responsible for about 70 elk kills this winter, which is more than average and enough to affect the hunting season for humans.

"We're not sure what triggers surplus killing," Lund said, "because in many cases predators will kill with the intent to eat, but in this case something triggered and they went crazy and just took down each elk and moved on to the next."

Sometime such large-scale killings are referred to as "sport killing," but wolves are not known to hunt for sport.

"By and large, wolves don't kill for sport. What we found is that generally wolves did not kill what they did not eat," said Mike Jimenez, Northern Rocky Mountain wolf coordinator for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).

Officials say factors such as deep snow or disease could have made the elk herd particularly vulnerable, triggering the surplus killing. The next step will be to test the elk carcasses for illness.

Others suggest the wolves night have been stocking up to prepare for leaner times when they had the chance.

"They're like a person living day to day, getting enough to survive. When prey is vulnerable, they don't have that mechanism to stop," said Ken Mills, the state's carnivore biologist. "If someone is barely making it day to day and they walk into a buffet, they're going to eat like it's a buffet."

After being brought to the brink of extinction in the first half of the 20th century and being declared endangered in 1978, wolves have made a remarkable recovery in the U.S.

In 2014, an estimated 330 wolves roamed Wyoming. While the state has argued to take wolves off the list of endangered species, the animals remain off limits to hunters.

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
For a lot of people across Mexico, Saturday night was a time for catharsis. Traditionally, the predominantly Catholic state burns figures representing Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' apostles who sold out his leader for 30 pieces of silver on the night before Easter. Since the tradition allows different symbols of the fallen disciple, it became rather common for Mexicans to burn effigies that symbolized politicians and other enemies of Mexico.

This year, the target of the tradition became Republican front-runner Donald Trump. Since announcing his intentions to run for the presidency of the United States, Trump has made it a point to target Mexico, and Mexicans in general, for much of the misfortune that has befallen the U.S. as of late.

Considering his statements seemed specifically designed to aggravate a whole country that lies literally beside America, it comes as no surprise that several Trump effigies were burned across Mexico as the chosen "Judas" of numerous communities.

Leonardo Linares, an artisan whose family is known as one of the most popular creators of the effigies that are burned for the Easter celebration, said that since Trump started attacking Mexico, he immediately knew that Trump would be a popular "Judas" for this year's celebration.

"Donald Trump's anti-Mexican comments made him an ideal candidate for Judas," he said. "With all of the stupid things he has said about Mexicans, I thought people would like to see him burning as Judas. For Latinos here and in the U.S., he's a danger, a real threat. He's a good man to burn as a Judas."

Indeed, Linares' predictions were right. On Saturday night, hundreds of revelers in his community flocked in order to watch Trump burn. Along with Trump were other effigies representing the Judases of Mexico, such as U.S. President Barack Obama and an Islamic State terrorist.

Almost poetically, the effigies of the notable Judases burned in character, with the ISIS-themed effigy going out in one explosive blast, President Obama's effigy refusing to burn and Donald Trump's figure burning in a slow and painful manner, each limb flying off one-by-one. As Trump's effigy's head exploded in the grand finale, the sound of the gunpowder was rivaled only by the sound of people cheering.

Trump has become a common target for jokes, satires and other attacks in the Latin American country. Cartoons, memes, and pinatas featuring the Republican front-runner have become common across the country. Satirical plays, folk songs and even games have poked fun at Trump's character.

Alberto Rueda, one of the revelers who watched the burning of Trump's effigy, expressed his discontent at the presidential candidate. "He's crazy. His ideas are not the solution; on the contrary. If he builds a wall, people will build tunnels," he said.

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp., one of Japan's premier conglomerates and the former telephone monopoly in the Asian superpower, announced on Monday that it has agreed to acquire Dell Inc.'s IT services division in a massive $3-billion deal. The deal, if successful and finalized, would be NTT Data Corp.'s largest deal to date, as the Asian conglomerate attempts to breach the overseas market.

According to NTT Data's announcement, the expected price of the deal is valued at about $3.05 billion. The amount, however, does not include debt as well as any other unspecified advisory fees.

Of course, with the acquisition, NTT Data would be able to enjoy a much larger foothold in the all-important market in the West. For some time now, the Japanese conglomerate has been putting a lot of effort into expanding its health care IT, insurance and financial services consulting.

The deal does not only benefit the Japanese giant, however, as Dell is also set to walk away from the deal with a significant gain. Most prominent of these would be the funds that would be gained from the deal.

With the profits from the sale, Dell would be able to significantly trim a portion of the massive $43 billion in debt that the company is taking on in order to fund its largest and most ambitious acquisition to date, Dell's pursuit of EMC Corp. Analysts have pegged the Dell-EMC deal to be worth almost $60 billion.

With Dell actively pursuing an acquisition of its own, several of its businesses, including its IT services unit, would ultimately become redundant. After all, Dell's IT services division, which was acquired by Dell in 2009 under the name Perot Systems, is a business targeted at providing technology consulting to government offices and hospitals.

If ever Dell's plan pans out and it does manage to successfully acquire EMC, such businesses would indeed be redundant, considering the size and scope of EMC Corp.'s businesses.

Dell's IT services division is not the only business being sold by the computer-maker, however, as Dell is also allegedly planning to sell Quest Software, a business which is aimed at developing information technology management systems. Dell is also allegedly looking at selling SonicWall, a business involving email encryption and other data security services.

Analysts believe that the planned sale of SonicWall and Quest Software is set to net Dell up to $4 billion. If Dell does manage to sell the businesses successfully, it would be able to take yet another significant step towards acquiring its biggest prize.

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
New Yorkers taking a stroll through Central Park on Sunday morning were greeted by an unlikely sight: a tombstone for GOP front-runner and New York real estate magnate Donald Trump.

The headstone memorialized Trump, who is still alive and kicking, with an epitaph that read, "Made America Hate Again." Beyond that, it has its facts straight, listing his birthdate as 1946, but leaving his year of death blank.

Passerby who noticed the tombstone, which appeared near Central Park's Sheep's Meadow overnight, were quick to swarm it and take photos. So even though it was was soon hauled away by the city's Parks Department, it had already become immortalized on Instagram, Twitter and other social media websites.

"There were people taking pictures which is why I stopped," said Annie Reiss, a local who was in the area on Easter Sunday. "It was definitely provocative, strange for Easter morning."

It's unclear who the prankster was that erected the memorial, but its clear it was someone who was at least offended by Trump's presidential campaign.

Of course, it's not hard to see why. Since Trump announced his candidacy last year, he has been making an enemy of almost everyone. He notably stated that were he elected president, he would have a wall built between the U.S. and Mexico, a statement which was preceded by him asserting that most Mexicans entering the U.S. were drug dealers, murderers and rapists. To add insult to injury, he later said that he would make Mexico pay to construct said wall.

Trump soon made an enemy of Muslims when he stated that he would not allow Muslims to enter the U.S. were he to be elected, and called for surveillance against those who already are living in the country in light of the Paris attacks. This stance has been reiterated plenty of times since then, prompting various influential figures in the U.S. to speak out against him.

Despite these actions (and many others), he still remains on top and many have begun to take action to halt his momentum. These actions include protests that have reportedly become so violent that one undercover officer referred to the participants there as the "most hateful, evil people I've ever seen."

The most recent fallout concerning the GOP front-runner was at Emory University, which is in a faux-civil war after someone scribbled messages supporting him all over campus. Liberal students held a protest about the matter soon after the messages were discovered, claiming they felt "scared" and "traumatized," while conservative students are slated to have a free speech rally later this week.

With all this going on, many were pleased to see people taking jabs at Trump with simple political satire.

"I support it. It's political satire," said Robert Cokie, 27, of the Bronx.

As for Trump, he doesn't seem to be too concerned about the whole affair as he more important things to worry about like lawsuits.

Just to show you how unfair Republican primary politics can be, I won the State of Louisiana and get less delegates than Cruz-Lawsuit coming  Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 27, 2016

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
South Korea has culled more than 11,000 ducks as a preventive measure against the bird flu.

According to the Ministry for Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, some of the ducks at a poultry farm in the northwestern city of Incheon had tested positive for a virulent strain of the bird flu this past Saturday.

The ministry added that in order to prevent avian influenza from spreading, all 11,604 ducks were slaughtered. The farm has also been placed under quarantine. The strain was identified as H5N8, which is a subtype of the influenza A virus that is not as pathogenic as the H1N1.

The strain was confirmed at the farm after the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency and a livestock research center in the region conducted an investigation when the farm reported that dozens of their ducklings had mysteriously died.

Since the confirmation, the ministry has issued an order banning all poultry and eggs from leaving any farms in the Gyeonggi Province. The order will last through April 2. On top of this measure, the city also created two disease monitoring posts that will be responsible for disinfecting all vehicles that enter and leave the city. The posts will remain until health officials can determine that there is no transmission risk involved.

The North Chungcheong Province also set up similar posts, while Jeju Island is prohibiting the entry of any poultry, eggs and birds coming from the Gyenoggi Province, Seoul and Incheon.

The last time that South Korea had a confirmed case of the bird flu was in Nov. 2015. The strain involved was also the H5N8. An infection typically leads to respiratory flu-like symptoms, such as headache, coughing and fever. Although there are symptoms, confirming an infection requires laboratory tests.

"Avian influenza A virus infection in humans cannot be diagnosed by clinical signs and symptoms alone - laboratory testing is required," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. "Avian influenza A virus infection is usually diagnosed by collecting a swab from the nose or throat of the sick person during the first few days of illness. This specimen is sent to a lab; the laboratory looks for avian influenza A virus either by using a molecular test, by trying to grow the virus, or both."

News of the bird flu came shortly after the country dealt with an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) that affected pigs from a farm in Gimje in January.

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When you live in China, you live by a special set of rules, and this holds true for technology which often finds itself uniquely altered to fit parameters set by the government. Once again we see this at play with Microsoft, which has finished building a unique version of Windows 10 for China's government that features fewer games and more worker oversight.

Windows 10 has been largely successful in other regions around the world but has done noticeably worse in China. In order to combat this, Microsoft announced in December that it would pair up with CETC, a Chinese state-run technology and defense corporation, to make a version of Windows that would be unique to the country.

The region-exclusive version has finally arrived and is titled Windows 10 Zhuangongban, or "Windows 10 Specially-provided Edition," and it features several differences that sets it apart from other versions you would find around the world. For example, the new version contains "more management and security controls," and many of the services and apps found in the consumer version of Windows 10 have been removed.

It's unclear just what has been added, but considering that China is well known for keeping its workers on a tight leash, it would be unsurprising for these security controls to actually be more ways for the country's government to keep a close watch on users.

This "Windows 10 Chinese Government Edition" isn't the first foreign-made, government-sponsored custom OS to appear in China. For years, China's government has been funding and pushing the development of NeoKylin, a Linux-based OS. Since it's been on the market for a longer period of time, it has seen use within various government circles recently, and a special version of it is being used to power China's Tianhe-2 supercomputer. However, the introduction of Windows 10 Zhuangongban may serve to shake things up a bit. Despite being around longer, NeoKylin doesn't offer the same range of support for software that the Chinese Windows 10 does, which could hamper it in the long run.

In the meantime, Microsoft's decision to partner up with China does seem a little odd, but past history may shed some light on that decision. Microsoft lost a lot of money when China banned Microsoft 8 from government computers in 2014. Granted, civilians were able to use the OS freely, but the government banning the software for itself negatively impacted adoption rates for everyone else. By creating a special version that is endorsed by the government, not only will this improve adoption rates for Windows software but it will also serve to combat piracy issues it faces in the country.

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Although researchers are aware that most non-Africans possess at least a small amount of Neanderthal DNA, a new map of our ancient ancestors reveals that many bloodlines, especially those of South Asian descent, might contain more Denisovan DNA than Neanderthal. The study also suggests that modern humans likely interbred with Denisovans around 100 generations after they bred with Neanderthals.

Denisovans are a mysterious hominid population that lived during the same time period as Neanderthals. In addition to revealing these genetic presence in numerous bloodlines, the team used genetic information on both Denisovans and Neanderthals to predict where these genes are impacting modern human biology, revealing that Denisovan genes are likely linked to a subtle sense of smell in Papua New Guinea people and high-altitude adaptations in Tibetans. Conversely, Neanderthal genes are linked to stronger skin and hair in many types of people around the word.

"There are certain classes of genes that modern humans inherited from the archaic humans with whom they interbred, which may have helped the modern humans to adapt to the new environments in which they arrived," said David Reich, who participated in the research. "On the flip side, there was negative selection to systematically remove ancestry that may have been problematic from modern humans. We can document this removal over the 40,000 years since these admixtures occurred."

Reich and his team found evidence that ancestry from both the Denisovan and Neanderthal lines has been lost from the X chromosome, in addition to genes expressed in male tests. They believe that this loss is the likely cause of the reduced fertility in males that is typically seen in hybrids of two very different groups of the same species.

Using data from Neanderthal and Denisovan gene sequences across more than 250 genomes from 120 non-African populations, the team utilized a machine-learning algorithm to differentiate between both types of ancestral DNA.

The results revealed that while those from Oceania contain the highest percentage of ancient ancestry, south Asians possess more Denisovan ancestry than previously believed, suggesting previously unknown ancient interbreeding events connected to the mysterious hominid population. Conversely Western Eurasians are least likely to have Neanderthal or Denisovan genes.

"The interactions between modern humans and archaic humans are complex and perhaps involved multiple events," Reich said.

Although the results shed light on the complex nature of interactions between modern and ancient humans, the study's reliance on the current library of ancient genomes available makes it difficult to draw conclusions regarding ancestral traits and physical characteristics.

"We can't use this data to make claims about what the Denisovans or Neanderthals looked like, what they ate, or what kind of diseases they were susceptible to," said Sriram Sankararaman, first author on the paper. "We are still very far from understanding that."

The findings were published in March 28 issue of Current Biology.

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A 23-year-old Japanese man was taken into custody Monday after a teenage girl who had been held captive in his apartment for two years managed to escape from her captivity and called her mother, who then notified police.

The girl, who was kidnapped in May 2014, had been abducted from her Saitama home by the man, Kabu Terauchi, by pretending to be a lawyer working on her parents' divorce. The news was a high profile case at the time, quickly gaining national attention. However with no progress made, it soon died out.

Fast forward to March 2016, when authorities say the girl managed to escape after her captor forgot to lock his apartment in downtown Tokyo on Sunday when he went out to go shopping in Akihabara, a district renowned for selling merchandise uniquely suited towards otaku. After leaving the house, she ventured out into the cold wearing nothing but a sweat suit and sandals to call her mother about the ordeal, who then contacted police, prompting them to raid Teruachi's apartment.

What followed after the raid is unclear, however. All that is known is that the case was put to rest early Monday morning when investigators captured Terauchi near a forest more than 60 miles west of Tokyo. He had attempted to commit suicide at some point during the ordeal and was bleeding from the neck due to a self-inflicted injury upon his arrest.

Police plan to formally arrest him for kidnapping.

Based on testimony from the now 15-year-old girl, the one thing more bizarre than the abduction, is the two years she spent in captivity afterward. Terauchi attended college in Chiba like usual, graduating earlier this month and even receiving a job offer. She even moved from his old apartment near her university to a new one in Tokyo last month.

During this time, the girl, whose name is being withheld due to her status as a minor, was always locked up and kept under strict surveillance, but was never bound, tied or chained-up. There were even times when she was allowed to accompany Terauchi outside, but even then she was closely watched.

A motive for the kidnapping is unclear and there has been no mention of what Terauchi did with the girl during her captivity, like any incidents of sexual abuse or misconduct.

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Today was the final day of the CHAT Beijing 2016 hotels and tourism conference. The meet-up, at Sofitel Wanda Beijing, saw some 650 plus delegates gather to discuss, network, and create a genuine dialogue for future Chinese hospitality growth and innovation. Here's a short take on the conference's importance, and key takeaways from some of the executives attending.

For those unfamiliar, CHAT Beijing is a natural progression born of the China Tourist Hotel Association. In fact, the summit is organized by this group, along with STR Global, and Horwath HTL. With a set dogma of networking for creative dialogue and business, the CHAT event is the growing offshoot of the China Hotel Development and Financing Conference, which has been in existence for more than a decade. In short, this is where Chinese domestic hotel owners and decision makers meet with global brands and key innovators, in order to empower China hotels and tourism forward.

CHAT Stage Photo by Pamil Visions PR

It was Horwath HTL, which had the initial idea of creating the new brand identity  CHAT, an event designed to fast forward China's tourism sector via knowledge and experience dissemination. CHAT, short for China Hotels and Tourism, is something of an unknown in western circles, but an opportunity the big brands like Starwood, IHG, Wanda, Club Med, Wyndham, Carlson Rezidor, and etc. fully recognize. The speakers list is a literal "who's who" of Asia decision makers like; Starwood's Kevin Colket, Head of Hotels Asia; Jin Qian, President of Wanda Hotels & Resorts; Club Med's Head of Development in China, Min Wu; Club Med VP, Development, Greater China; and many more.

But as prestigious as the attendees list may seem, it's the news brought forward with clarity that should be most impactful. Two fundamental information takeaways I discovered are, the misinformation where China's economic situation is concerned, and the pace at which traditional Chinese business is a metamorphosis toward new age millennial progressiveness.

Looks pretty busy to me. pic.twitter.com/jyZQ4xrCh5  Horwath HTL (@HorwathHTLcorp) March 22, 2016

I was taking a look at the Tweets from Horwath earlier, and discovered from their short takes, the still thriving developmental sector in China via their feed. Tweeting from CHAT, the team at Horwath also told of the conference's hot topic, hotel asset management, a topic that is sizzling in ever hotel back office. Their synopsis on the conference seems to boil down to a big emergence from 3 and 4 star brands across China in the next 5 years or so. I spoke with James Chappell, Global Business Director at Horwath HTL, on his take from the point of view of China hospitality at this juncture; here is what he had to say:

"If you never came to China, but relied on western media for your information, you might get an idea of a country struggling with massive financial issues. The reality though, is far removed from that easy sound bite. Its clear that oversupply in the sector has caused issues over the last couple of years, but demand is catching up and performance data indicates a robust market. We see Asset Management as the logical next step in an industry that has matured and is looking for ways to maximize value and returns. Good asset management will take a poor hotel and make it better, and make a good hotel great. It's all about taking the underlying product and sharpening every part of the machine till it runs at maximum efficiency. This is where the industry needs to go over the next 5 years or so and early indications are that the market is beginning to realize that."

CHAT Beijing 2016: China Hospitality Regenerative

From the right - SnapShots, Dr. Stefan Tweraser (far right) with Min Wang, VP of Shiji Information Technology (Beijing), Michael Zhu, VP of Interstate China Hotels and Resorts, and Vingo Fu, the New Century Hotels & Resorts CIO

CHAT this year was not simply about a redux of hotel industry meets globalization. The theme of "regeneration" resonates in what we hear coming from participants and key speakers. In a very real way, this conference is a systemic example of how traditional hotel business is passing the torch, so to speak, to a new generation of hoteliers and entrepreneurs in tune with a digital age, and with the ecosystems cropping up in other regions. I was able to grab a comment from CHAT speaker, CEO of ITB Berlin sensation SnapShot GmbH, Dr. Stefan Tweraser (above), on how cutting edge technology and innovation is being adopted by this new generation. Here's what the former Google Germany director told me:

"CHAT Beijing has been a great networking and learning experience. The Asian hotel market is so diverse and dynamic, great personalities shape the future of the industry in this region. China brings a lot of innovation and forward thinking to the region and the world. Snapshot has been very well received  smart hotel analytics certainly did strike a cord with local leaders. CHAT provided a great platform for our product."

So the message is Chinese hospitality regeneration is underway. Just why it is news from the China and the region is not broadcast so accurately or vociferously is, to be honest, puzzling for this writer. In fact, as of this report, there are only two such stories on this important summit in English that I know of, and I wrote both of them. Curiosities aside, what James Chappell said about misperceptions translates into both advantage, and disadvantage where our businesses are concerned. Most hoteliers in Europe are tightly focused on attracting Chinese tourists, even Chinese investments in operations here. But not too many seem so focused on the overall picture, the reciprocal nature of business, and especially not the cultural and functional aspects of globalization. Technology ends up being a barometer, in a way, that reveals the forecast for business growth. But then so does Chinese conservative business willing to move forward faster, with a new generation of actuaries, doers, executive, and eventually leadership. My take is, CHAT Beijing 2016 broadcast this dialogue. And since you've read this, perhaps the conversation is up to you?

Phil Butler

Senior Partner

Pamil Visions PR
N.O.R.E., AKA Noreaga, dropped his album Drunk Uncle over the weekend, but he was also nice enough to bless us all with a free download version. Its a huge project, stretching across 23 tracks and skits. As expected, Noreaga brings back the old school with this one, but has a bunch of modern sounding joints as well.

Hes helped out by a truly impressive suite of features from new and old school alike. Seems everyone came out to pay respects to the OG N.O.R.E. Highlights include Kool G Rap, French Montana, Jadakiss, T-Pain, Killer Mike, Rick Ross, A$AP Ferg and Ty Dolla $ign. There are plenty of others if those dont do anything for you (they should though).

Give it a listen and be sure to cop it on iTunes to support good music.
This week marked the halfway point for the Second Regular Session of the 98th General Assembly, and the Senate adjourned for our legislative spring break. Hopefully you and your families were also able to take some time off to spend together during the Easter holiday.

I would like to use this weeks column to highlight some of the achievements the Senate has made over the past two and a half months, as well as look ahead at what business will be addressed in the coming months leading up to adjournment in May.

Ethics reform was one of the largest goals of the Senate for this first half of Session. Tightening ethical standards for Missouris legislators helps to instill faith and trust in the government on the part of the public, and the House and Senate worked together early this Session to achieve these goals. By tackling ethics reform one piece of legislation at a time, the General Assembly has been building comprehensive, yet targeted plans to improve the state governments ethical guidelines. House Bill 1979 was passed in the House and Senate, with some changes, to prevent legislators from registering as lobbyists until after their elected terms have expired. House Bill 1983 specifies that no statewide elected official or member of the General Assembly shall serve as a paid political consultant. House Bill 2203 changes the laws regarding the investment of campaign funds, which would work to curb corruption and ensure campaign funding is used for its original intent. All of these bills are subject to the Legislatures and governors final approval.

Another main goal for the Senate this Session was to make access to quality health care more efficient and equitable for all Missourians. Our states health care costs take up around one-third of the entire budget, which is a massive expenditure. Many residents of the 33rd District know just how much of an expense and a toll medical expenditures can be on a family. This is why the Senate has especially focused on expanding health care access in rural areas of the state by reducing costs as a result of providing best practice care in a timely and coordinated manner. Senate Bill 608 authorizes MO HealthNet providers to charge a minimal fee for missed appointments in addition to creating an emergency room co-payment system. Senate Bill 607 would help reduce fraud and abuse in Missouris welfare system. Senate Bill 875 removes barriers to lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensures patients safety, and Senate Bill 621 would allow doctors to use telehealth technologies to reach patients remotely in their homes  a huge development for rural communities.

These have been just a few of the developments the Senate and House have made this legislative Session, but they are some of the most important. Improving Missouris ethical and health care standards is something that benefits all citizens in the Show-Me State. Moving forward, the Senate will continue to focus on these issues as well as tackling the states budget until adjournment in mid-May.

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
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Burck Smith to Speak on Driving Down the Cost of a College Degree at Light City Baltimore On March 28, StraighterLine CEO Burck Smith will speak at the Social Innovation Conference at Light City Baltimore

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Baltimore, MD (PRWEB) March 25, 2016StraighterLine, one of the fastest-growing online education companies in the U.S., is proud to participate at Light City in Baltimore. Burck Smith, StraighterLine's Chief Executive Officer, will participate in the Light City Us Social Innovation Conference. In its inaugural year, this event brings together leaders in social enterprise, education, social justice, philanthropy, and policy to explore real-world solutions to problems faced by societies throughout the world and will be held at the Baltimores Columbus Center on March 28  29, 2016 during "Light City 2016.Smith will discuss how online courses can drive down the cost of a college degree in a panel discussion titled, Edtech Companies Redefining the Future of Learning. He will be joined by Wes Moore, best-selling author of The Other Wes Moore and founder of BridgeEdu, and Lida Zlatic, CEO and Co-Founder of ClassTracks. The panel discussion will tak...

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EzCheckprinting Is Being Released At No Cost For Business Owners Switching To Computerized Software ProgramsBusiness owners can now switch to ezCheckprinting business software as a no cost computerized application when checking out through Trialpay. Test

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SAN DIEGO, CA (PRWEB) MARCH 24, 2016Many business owners are switching to some form of computerized check writing software to streamline the company. With the no-cost offer for ezCheckprinting software from Halfpricesoft.com, it has never been easier to switch from manual check writer to a computerized application. By checking out through Trialpay, buyers can get the full version check printing software at no cost when trying or buying an offer from one of TrialPay's 2,000 blue-chip advertisers. New customers can download and try this software free at http://www.halfpricesoft.com/check_printing_software_download.aspEzCheckPrinting computerized business check writer is available for Easter at no cost through Trialpay offer, says Halfpricesoft.com founder, Dr. GeThousands of customers prefer ezCheckPrinting MICR & laser check printing software because this check writer software is simple and can handle most check printing needs - including customized layouts and new cha...

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SEO Ranking: 4 Ways to Improve Your Content Marketing

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SEO, or search engine optimization, is still a big priority for many marketers and it makes complete sense. Just think; when was the last time you searched for something without using Google? According to the article on the Content Marketing Institute website, 61% of content marketers use their website traffic for measuring success and 39% claim that SEO rankings are extremely crucial. Even though SEO is important, some content marketers have not yet truly mastered it. To achieve this, they need to work around Googles never ending guidelines and try to reach higher rankings from a different set of angles. There is not a method yet that will help you achieve this, so many content marketers try by throwing a bunch of things out there, hoping that some of them will work. The best chance in getting a higher rank is to follow Googles standards and repeat the things that have worked for others. The following tips are some of the latest and these are the ones that will help yo...

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Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-03-28 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/> CONTENTS [01] Significantly reduced the number of refugees arrivals at Piraeus [02] Two refugees wounded at Diavata camp over a dispute for charging phones [01] Significantly reduced the number of refugees arrivals at Piraeus The number of the refugees inflows from the islands of Aegean Sea to Piraeus was significantly reduced on Monday, since the ferry "Ariadni" that docked at the port early in the morning carried only 17 refugees and migrants from Chios and Mytilene. Later in the morning the 'blue star 2' ferry is expected to dock without any refugees and migrants aboard. Should be also noted that on Sunday there has been no arrivals of refugees from the islands of Aegean Sea. According to the latest counting, on Monday the number of the refugees settled at the port arrangements raised to 5,330 persons. [02] Two refugees wounded at Diavata camp over a dispute for charging phones Two refugees were wounded on Saturday in the skirmish produced between relocation seekers, over a dispute for the charging of mobile phones, at the temporary hosting center of Diavata in Thessalonica. According to witnesses in the altercation were involved 30 refugees and migrants. The two wounded were lightly hurt and were transferred to the hospital, while eight of the implicated were conducted at the Police Station of Diavata. By the late hours of Saturday the tension at the hosting center was appeased completely. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-03-28 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/> CONTENTS [01] PM Tsipras chairs meeting on refugee issue [02] Less refugees arrive at northeastern Aegean islands [03] Civil servants' union federation ADEDY to hold strike on April 7 [01] PM Tsipras chairs meeting on refugee issue Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Monday chairs a meeting with government members and close associates on the refugee issue at Parliament. On Wednesday the government is expected to table a draft law in Parliament regarding the legal aspects of the implementation of the EU-Turkey agreement. It will also proceed with the setting up of an institution with a supervisory role as well as the upgrade of the ministry for Migration Policy. The government's priority is to improve conditions at Idomeni and for this reason it has increased the number of buses that will transfer people from Idomeni to accommodation centres. [02] Less refugees arrive at northeastern Aegean islands The number of refugees and migrants arriving at the islands of the northeastern Aegean has been significantly reduced over the last 24 hours. A total of 144 persons, mainly Pakistani refugees, have arrived since Sunday. More specifically, 17 persons arrived on Lesvos, 63 persons arrived on Chios, and 64 on Samos. [03] Civil servants' union federation ADEDY to hold strike on April 7 The civil servants' union federation ADEDY on Monday announced a 24-hour strike on April 7 against planned social security reforms. It will also hold a rally at Klafthmonos square, at 11 am. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
Police in London, Ont. are investigating a Catholic priest after he allegedly gambled away over $500,000 meant for refugees.

Father Amer Saka of the St. Joseph Chaldean Catholic Church confessed to bishop Emanuel Shaleta last month that the money had disappeared in games of chance, The Toronto Star reported.

He was suspended right away, Shaleta told the newspaper. Saka subsequently received treatment.

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Precisely how the money was gambled away isn't clear. But Shaleta believes Saka has a "serious gambling problem and that these funds may have been used for this purpose."

"Since there is an investigation going on, we cannot confirm what he's saying," he said.

Shaleta added that Saka was taken to Southdown Institute, a facility that offers addiction and mental health services for clergy members.

The London police began a fraud investigation after they received a complaint from the Diocese of Hamilton in February, CTV News reported.

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The diocese had been overseeing efforts by numerous groups, including one led by Saka, to sponsor Syrian and Iraqi refugees in Canada.

Saka was trusted with handling funds after families donated money to support loved ones fleeing war in the Middle East.

But, instead of holding the money for refugees, it was gambled off, Shaleta told the London Free Press.

"They deposited it for their loved ones (and) he was supposed to return it when their relative came," he said.

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"They trusted him, this money was not for him. It was to be given back to the refugees."

Sponsoring a family of four refugees for a year costs a minimum of approximately $20,000, on top of $7,000 in startup costs, according to Lifeline Syria.

The Diocese of Hamilton is now overseeing sponsorship for the refugees that Saka had been helping, CTV News noted.

Also on HuffPost:
Bloomberg via Getty Images An employee checks her mobile device in the lobby of Google Canada's engineering headquarters in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, on Friday, Jan. 22, 2016. The 185,000-square-foot facility currently houses over 350 employees from Google's Canadian development team. Photographer: Cole Burston/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Silicon Valley North, as some have dubbed the southwestern Ontario towns of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, hasn't always been a high-tech hub.

In fact, the so-called Tech Triangle has its roots in rural and manufacturing enterprises. Kitchener, for example, was once home to tanneries and shoe factories while Waterloo was a service centre producing tools essential for farming and Cambridge housed various mills.

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But all of that changed in 1984 when two engineering students from the University of Waterloo started a company known as Research in Motion (RIM). They would go on to create and sell the highly successful BlackBerry and as the company became more prosperous, so did its home base.

But even as Blackberrys success teetered, the reinvigorated region still thrived.

A growing number of tech and engineering businesses are continuing to take root in the region, moving into old manufacturing buildings and forwarding the tech legacy set by BlackBerry. Its reported that more than 450 startups opened in the region in 2014.

Here is a look at three companies that continue to put the Tech Triangle on the map, one innovation at a time.

Name: Magnet Forensics

Product: Technology that recovers incriminating data from tablets, phones, and computers

Magnet Forensics is a digital forensics tech company located in one of Blackberrys old buildings near the University of Waterloo. Its the brainchild of Jad Saliba, a former Waterloo police officer, who created software that recovers information from computers and other digital technologies, helping law enforcement find potentially incriminating evidence.

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The company was established in 2012 and began with only eight employees but has since grown to 85 with more hires on deck for 2016.

Name: Desire2Learn

Product: Personalized learning modules and analytics services

Desire2Learn is bridging the worlds of education and technology. The online teaching and learning platform tailors lesson plans in real time to how a student is doing.

While teaching students via educational software and technological materials isnt a new concept now, it was when Baker set out on his business venture in 1999. Baker, 22 at the time, was a student at the University of Waterloo when he founded D2L. Now located in the old Tannery lofts in downtown Kitchener, the education software company has grown from a one-man business to more than 800 employees around the world in locations such as Singapore, U.K., Brazil, and Australia.

Name: Google Canada

Product: Supports the larger Google family in search and tech development
Ritz-Carlton Residences

Lets hope its the start of a trend.

With Canadians bailing out of the Florida property market due to the low loonie, a Florida developer is taking the weakened Canadian dollar at par for condos in a posh new Miami Beach development.

Better than at par, in fact: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Miami Beach, is offering a 35-per-cent discount to Canadians. The loonie is only 25 per cent lower than the U.S. dollar at present.

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No other developers have done this type of deal before, a spokesperson for the developer said in a statement.

There are, of course, a few catches. The first is price: As you might imagine, a place named Ritz-Carlton isnt a downscale building. Units run between $2 million and $40 million, a hefty price tag even in Canadian dollar terms.

So yes, that prices most of us out. Scroll down for some great pics of a property youll never own.

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But if youve read this far and youre still in contention, the next catch is this is a one-night only deal. Interested parties are requested to appear at the Ritz-Carlton in Toronto on Wed. March 30, 2016, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. It's "first come, first serve" so don't be late.

You can also put it an offer by phone, through realtor The Condo Store.

Canadians Disappearing From Floridas Market

The decline of the loonie has prompted some U.S. businesses to try inventive new ideas to lure back Canadians. A number of businesses in Myrtle Beach, S.C., have announced theyre taking the loonie at par.

But the declining loonie has also impacted south Floridas real estate market. The loonies fall from parity with the U.S. dollar to around 75 cents U.S. over the past few years amounts to a 30-per-cent increase in the price of realty in the U.S. for Canadians buying in Canadian dollars.

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That has had a large impact on some California real estate markets where Canadians were major buyers, and it has had arguably an even bigger impact on Florida, where Canadian snowbirds have long been a significant part of the economy.

The Miami Association of Realtors says 11 per cent of foreign buyers in 2015 were Canadian  down from 32 per cent a year earlier.

While Canadians were long the number-one foreign buyers of Florida homes, that honour has now shifted to Venezuela, whose citizens bought 26 per cent of all foreign-bought homes in Miami. Chinese nationals were in second place, with 14 per cent of sales.

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A judges decision to acquit former broadcaster Jian Ghomeshi last week highlights how the justice system is designed to fail cases of sexual violence that actually make it to court, the father of Rehtaeh Parsons says.

We pontificate the institution of justice while claiming it is what makes our society civil, but there is nothing civil to be found in the staggering toll sexual violence takes on our communities and the devastation it causes victims and their families, Glen Canning wrote on his blog Friday.

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His daughter, Rehtaeh, was 17 when she was taken off life support after attempting to hang herself in 2013.

Two years earlier, a photo was taken of her throwing up outside a window while a teenage boy gave a thumbs up to the camera while he allegedly raped her from behind. That photo was later leaked and circulated at her school.

Rehtaeh Parsons took her own life after a photo of her being sexually assaulted was leaked to classmates. (Photo: Facebook)

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Canning, who has been a vocal advocate for victims of sexual assault since his daughters suicide, spoke outside Torontos Old City Hall hours after the Ghomeshi was cleared of five criminal charges. Canning shared his frustration in seeing the justice system fail survivors again.

According to Now Magazine, Canning told the crowd that his faith in the judicial system was extinguished after his daughters case went to court  which ultimately let us down, he said.

In light of the verdict and in relation to his daughter's case, Canning called for a fresh look at an old system:

And I should never, ever have to stand here in front of people talking about the sexual assault of my daughter, and thinking that the police screwing up her case actually probably did her a favour. Going by what we saw in this courtroom, that literally is exactly what they did. And that is a system that has to change.

Ghomeshi, a former CBC Radio host, was found not guilty of four charges of sexual assault and one charge of overcoming resistance by choking.

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During the trial, the defence chipped away at the credibility of the three female accusers under oath. Ghomeshi's lawyer focused on testing their memories of their actions after the alleged sexual assaults.

The events allegedly took place over a decade ago, between 2002 and 2003.

Judge made 'right decision': legal community

Justice William Horkins analysis of the trial evidence and his decision to acquit Ghomeshi was praised by some lawyers as the "right decision."

Jian Ghomeshi leaves court in Toronto on March 24, 2016. (Photo: Christopher Katsarov/The Canadian Press)

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A recent poll by Postmedia and Mainstreet Research found 38 per cent of respondents said the Ghomeshi verdict lowered their faith in the judicial system. Within that segment, more women (46 per cent) than men (30 per cent) said Horkins decision caused them to lose trust in the courts.

"Confidence in our justice system seems to be shaken," Quito Maggi of Mainstreet Research said in a release Friday.

The poll was conducted among 2,017 Toronto residents via landline and cell phone surveys on March 24. The sample has a margin of error of 2.18 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Ghomeshi is due back in court in June to face a separate sexual assault charge for an incident that allegedly took place at the CBC.

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A Toronto man believes the late Rob Ford  famous for waging a war against a municipal gravy train, among other things  deserves a statue.

Calling the former mayor a tireless fighter for the people, James Morrison launched an online petition last week addressed to Mayor John Tory, Toronto city council, Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

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Former Toronto mayor Rob Ford has touched the hearts of many in the great city he represented. This man was a fighter until the end, Morrison wrote.

Ford died Tuesday, 18 months after being diagnosed with a rare soft tissue cancer. He was 46.

The public paid their last respects to former Toronto mayor Rob Ford, who lay in repose at city hall on Monday. (Photo: The Canadian Press)

Morrison credited Fords eagle eye with ending the so-called gravy train  a moniker used by the late politician to describe and decry excess spending of taxpayer money.

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Rob Ford deserves a statue. Especially if Jack Layton got one, wrote commenter Nickolas Tzavaras. Another praised Ford for being an icon who was a real person who made mistakes and faced struggles but always had a good heart.

But some disagreed, arguing the use of public money for a statue would be the last thing Ford would have wanted.

Folks, that's a great example of not respecting the taxpayer's dollar, wrote one commenter.

Morrison did not respond to The Huffington Post Canadas request for comment.

Rob Ford has touched the hearts of many in the great city he represented.  James Morrison, Change.org petition sponsor

If the petition gains enough momentum and moves through all the necessary bureaucratic hoops, there would be a total of two Ford family tributes in the city.

In 2010, an Etobicoke park was renamed in tribute to Fords late father Douglas Ford Sr., a former member of the provincial legislature.

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Goodbye to an average guy

Despite making international headlines for a crack video scandal and even appearing on American talk show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," Ford often brushed off any notion of celebrity tied to his name.

Im just an average person that watches taxpayers money, returns phone calls and does what the taxpayers want, he explained to media while signing bobblehead dolls made in his likeness in 2014.

Proceeds from the sale of those dolls went to two city hospitals where Ford was seeking chemotherapy treatment at the time.

A funeral will be held for Ford on Wednesday.

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Zayn Malik has it all: a new album, a number one single, a supermodel girlfriend and an array of adorning fans. And now he has something else to add to that list: a hot Instagram look-alike.

Ladies and gentlemen, meet Shyan Ranje, the man Zayn fans are freaking out over on Instagram for his incredible similarities to the British pop star.

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Special project releasing soon w/ @creationsofla A photo posted by Shyan Ranje (@shyanhm) on Mar 26, 2016 at 12:17pm PDT

Over the past few weeks, Ranje, a junior editor and stylist at Canada's very own Vulkan Magazine, has gained thousands of followers in thanks to a collection of selfies and #OOTDs that resemble the 23-year-old ex-One Direction member's style. From the platinum blond buzzcut to the well-maintained beard, leather jacket to ripped jeans and pouty camera gazes to drool-worthy black and white photos, the L.A.-based fashionisto is a spitting image of Zayn.

"The Zayn comparisons! It's crazy right now isn't it?" Ranje tells HuffPost Canada Style in an email interview. "I had no idea to be honest until my editor sent me a screenshot of the ELLE magazine posting something about him and I. I was like, 'Wow, this is nuts.'"

But contrary to belief, the new social media sensation, who says his style is "based on his mood," wasn't really shocked by the comparisons to Malik.

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X @stampdla X @creationsofla A photo posted by Shyan Ranje (@shyanhm) on Feb 18, 2016 at 3:45pm PST

"I somehow wasn't surprised much because I went to that GQ Grammy party and literally every friend of [Malik's] thought I was him. I think its even funnier that we have mutual friends that find it hilarious."

As for his newfound fan base, Shyan, who despite working for a Canadian magazine has "never even been to Canada," has welcomed over 2,500 followers over on his Instagram in "about six days."

"Zayn, is that you?" Many Instagram comments read. "ZAYN?!" others ask.

And Twitter users are fans too:

@zaynmalik 's long lost brother. Nah I'm joking he's a Zayn lookalike! Holy shit too much of a lookalike tho! pic.twitter.com/ctizzqZ2eG  ZIGI AF (@CeceCuriousCuri) March 26, 2016

And let's give it up for this fan who noticed the #twinning comparisons all the way back in 2013:

search shyan ranje on fb and tell me he looks like zayn  z e i n n a (@rhymeswithtina) September 18, 2013

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When asked about his new fan base, the stylist, who had no plans of working in the fashion industry prior to him meeting his editor at an event (he was offered a job based on his impeccable style), said he hopes they can appreciate his work.

"That's all that matters to me. I hope their ready to see more fashion and less selfies... I'll drop the occasional one though."

But would Ranje work with Malik? Definitely.

"Yes, I absolutely would. I think he's a very talented individual. I've actually heard some of his new music, it's dope.

He's a hard artist to get a hold of right now but let's just say... we may have something to come one day."

You heard it here on HuffPost Canada Style first, everyone!

So, now lets take a closer look at Zayn and Shyan:

A photo posted by Zayn Malik (@zayn) on Sep 25, 2015 at 4:17pm PDT

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I gotchu on my mind A photo posted by Shyan Ranje (@shyanhm) on Oct 4, 2015 at 3:17pm PDT

Meet up went amazing.. Miss you all! SB: @shemoi A photo posted by Shyan Ranje (@shyanhm) on Nov 26, 2015 at 12:32pm PST

Thank you @androidhomme for lacing me up.. & sorry to the car behind me aha A photo posted by Shyan Ranje (@shyanhm) on Mar 22, 2016 at 6:50pm PDT

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Yup, it's safe to say Shyan is giving that Harry Styles doppelganger a run for his money!

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When I first heard about the Conservatives' Bill C-31, the act that enables the government to strip refugees of their permanent resident status, I almost cried. I was outraged and I felt sad. I cannot imagine the fear and suffering of those being targeted by this bill.

Mazin Helmy Al-Obeidi was a political prisoner under Saddam Hussein. He deserted from Hussein's army and participated in activities against the dictator. For this he spent many years in jail as a political prisoner.

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In 1998, he escaped from jail and fled to Lebanon. There, in 2000, the UNHCR, and then the Canadian government in 2002 recognized him as a refugee. He was accepted for resettlement in Canada in 2007 after extensive background checks due to his service in the Iraqi army. He became a permanent resident upon arrival in Canada in November 2007.

After the downfall of Hussein, Al-Obeidi travelled back to Iraq to see his family. He carefully followed all the legal requirements as a Canadian permanent resident. He was last in Iraqi in November 2012.

On Dec. 15, 2012, C-31 changed the Canadian refugee law. The new law is retroactive and within it is the cessation provision. The provision has the effect of striping a refugee of their permanent resident status. Cessation provision is used to target refugees who travel back to their country of origin irrespective of the circumstances at the time of travel.

Although Al-Obeidi had traveled back to Iraq after Hussein was no longer a threat and at the time of travel, there was no such law. The retroactive effect of the cessation provisions of C-31 could cost him his permanent resident status.

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Al-Obeidi passed his citizenship test in January 2014. He was expecting to be called to take the citizenship oath, but instead Canadian Immigration launched an investigation and later filed an application to cessate Al-Obeidi's permanent resident status and freeze the processing of his citizenship application.

Faced with the dire consequence of being deported, Al-Obeidi brought his case to the Immigration and Refugee Board. The board dismissed Canada Immigration's cessation application but the government appealed to the Federal Court. It took another year to have the court dismiss Canada Immigration's review application.

Although Al-Obeidi won his case but he has suffered enormous stress due to the uncertainty of his status, not to mention the financial burden of the legal fees he had to incur.

Al-Obeidi may escape deportation but hundreds, maybe thousands, of refugees who have been living in Canada as permanent residents are still living in fear. Baharch Esfand and her daughter are also being targeted. Esfand landed in Canada in 2006 with her husband and daughter as refugees.

Bahareh's husband was found to be at risk in Iran; she and her first child were classified as refugees under the principle of family unity.

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Since landed, Bahareh gave birth to her second daughter in Canada. The family is now a well-established self-supporting family of four that has called Canada home for almost a decade. Prior to the implementation of C-31, Bahareh visited her family twice in Iran. When Bahareh filed a citizenship application in 2014, Canada Immigration launched the cessation process to revoke her permanent resident status.

Even though Bahareh's husband and one of their children are Canadian citizens, it does not affect the government's determination to revoke her and her other daughter's permanent resident status. Bahareh brought her case to the IRB and CIC's cessation application was dismissed in 2015. CIC filed an application to the Federal Court to review the IRB decision but was unsuccessful. Undeterred by the defeats, CIC filed an appeal to the Federal Court decision and this case is still in the legal process.

A government internal bulletin has shown that the Conservative government has set an annual target of a minimum of 875 cessations for the Canada Border Services Agency to execute.

As a result, refugees are being investigated, their permanent resident status in jeopardy and cases are ending up in court. Since the cessation process is often triggered by the filing of a citizenship application, the cessation persecution of CBSA has brought fear to the refugee community and many are afraid to apply for citizenship.

The Conservatives' Bill C-31 is not only unjust and inhuman, it is wasting the court and taxpayers' precious resources. The permanent residents that are being targeted are refugees that have already been scrutinized by and recognized as refugees by the Canadian government. These newcomers are grateful to Canada's compassion and generosity. They work hard, contributing to our community.

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Bill C-31 has nothing to do with fraud and terrorism. Although the NDP has been advocating to repeal it, the present immigration minister has only promised to review the Conservatives' law.

The Conservatives' anti-immigration/refugee values and actions are simply not in doubt. They were restrained when they were in minority government but once they became majority, our immigration system entered a dark age. They first installed Bill C-31 to target the refugees, then in 2014 enacted Bill C-24 that turned immigrants and their families into second-class citizens.

During that time, the Conservatives scrapped 280,000 skilled worker immigration applications, people who had been waiting for years to have their application processed.

They stripped tens of thousands of foreign students of the opportunity to seek work and stay in Canada. They raised the bar for immigrants to become citizens.

If the Conservatives had won last year and continued as a majority government, I have little doubt that after targeting refugees, first, immigrants would have been the next target to strip off their citizenship.

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When the Conservatives were in a minority, they made an effort to reach out to the ethnic immigrant community, but once they formed a majority government, their true face was exposed. Fortunately, they only served one majority term, but the damage is already done.

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Who but those who have experienced it can appreciate the soul crushing anguish of mental illness? Afflictions of the mind can be paralyzing and fundamentally change the way we perceive ourselves (I am worthless), anticipate the future (my prospects are hopeless), and experience the world (life is unfair and unforgiving). The combination of self-loathing, hopelessness and despair can tragically lead to suicide.

Parliament's Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Death, nevertheless, urged the federal government not to exclude individuals with psychiatric conditions from being considered eligible. Their reasoning comes down to this: Mental suffering is no less profound than physical suffering, so denying individuals with mental illness access to physician hastened death would be discriminatory and a violation of their Charter rights.

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People with mental illness are no strangers to discrimination. Two-thirds suffer in silence for fear of rejection and mistreatment. Only one in five children who need mental health services receive them, either because of concerns they will be stigmatized or supports are simply not available. Doors are constantly being closed on the mentally ill, denying them of stable employment, social opportunities, secure food and housing; and sometimes fundamental protections under our criminal justice system. They are marginalized, victimized and vilified.

Mental illness is one of the best predictors, more so than poverty, of inequitable access to healthcare in Canada. People with severe mental illness die about 25 years earlier than adults in the general population.

Making a fairness argument for the availability of physician-hastened death for a group of people treated so unfairly seems a cruel irony. In Oregon, having a psychiatric condition does not preclude eligibility for physician-assisted suicide. However, that condition must not impair the patient's capacity to give consent and must, as in every other eligible case, occur alongside a medical condition with a prognosis of less than six months. Experts I met involved in Oregon's Death With Dignity Act, in place 17 years now, could not fathom the idea of providing assisted suicide purely on the basis of non-terminal psychiatric disorders.

In the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, psychological suffering stemming from either a physical or mental condition is considered a valid legal basis for physician-hastened death. They account for a small but growing minority of death-hastening cases. Last month, a critically important study was published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry by American psychiatrist, Scott Kim.

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Kim and his team reviewed 66 case summaries, published online by the Dutch regional euthanasia review committee between 2011-14, of people who had received either euthanasia or assisted suicide for psychiatric reasons. The majority were women, with issues including depression, psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and substance abuse; some also had various forms of cognitive impairment (e.g. intellectual disability, early dementia) and autism. Most had personality disorders and were described as socially isolated and lonely. In one quarter of instances, despite differences of opinion between physicians, death hastening proceeded. In about one third of cases initially refused, most were carried out by new physicians willing to comply.

The parliamentary committee position seems premised on the recognition that physical suffering and mental suffering can be equally devastating. That does not mean, however, they can be approached the same. The nature of mental illness often leads people to see themselves as worthless, to believe that their situation is hopeless; and to perceive -- often reflected through society's judgmental gaze -- that their lives have little value. But this context should help us see that a death hastening response is fraught with hazard; and runs counter to a recovery oriented practice advocated by the Mental Health Commission of Canada.

Like all Canadians, people with mental illness have rights that are protected under the constitution. And like all Canadians, these rights need to be balanced against the interests of a free and just society, wherein vulnerable persons must be protected. The most effective protections healthcare providers offer patients are built on the foundation of a caring and committed therapeutic relationship.

For patients whose illness tends towards self-destruction, and for patients whose suffering is rooted in social conditions like loneliness, a physician-assisted death option will crack that relational foundation. Current evidence shows that vulnerable persons will fall through that crack.

The committee, in its wisdom, expressed confidence that physicians would be able to figure this out. Hopefully, as lawmakers draft legislation in the days ahead, deeper wisdom will prevail.

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Fredrik Nyman via Getty Images A packed trunk on a car.

With every Trump victory, an increasing number of U.S. citizens are considering the possibility of moving to Canada. Of course, wanting to move to Canada is not the same thing as actually being allowed to move here. So how hard would it really be for a U.S. citizen to move to Canada?

There are two options that a Trump-averse U.S. citizen might consider: (1) seek permanent residence in Canada; or (2) seek temporary status in Canada (such as a work permit or study permit) until the next presidential election. Their choice would depend on whether they believe Mr. Trump would win a second presidential term.

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The biggest problem with the FSWC, CEC, and FSTC is that they are now subject to the Express Entry Program, which has been in place since January 1, 2015. Under Express Entry, it is no longer possible for foreign nationals to directly apply for permanent residence under the FSW, CEC, or FSTC.

Instead, applicants must now submit an Express Entry profile through the Citizenship and Immigration Canada ("CIC") website, indicating their interest in immigrating to Canada. If they satisfy the eligibility requirements of the FSWC, CEC, or FSTC, they will be accepted into the Express Entry pool of potential candidates. However, acceptance into the Express Entry pool does not guarantee that a particular candidate will be issued an invitation to apply for permanent residence.

All applicants who are accepted into the Express Entry pool are assigned a certain number of Comprehensive Ranking System ("CRS") points. CIC will then invite applicants having the highest number of CRS points to apply for permanent residence. Only then will the applicant be permitted to apply under the FSW, CEC, or FSTC.

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To date, the lowest CRS score that has resulted in an invitation to apply is 450. An unmarried 40 year old with a U.S. bachelor degree, with at least three years of skilled work experience in the United States, who is fluent in English but not French, and who has never worked or studied in Canada, would receive only 381 CRS points. Such an applicant would not have received an invitation to apply.

Applicants who are accepted into the Express Entry pool will remain there for one year. However, if they have not been invited to apply for permanent residence after one year, their profiles will expire. Although CIC claims that the majority of applicants who are invited to apply will receive their permanent residence in six months or less, applicants don't actually know when they will receive an invitation to apply.

Although some U.S. citizens who submit Express Entry profiles will be invited to apply for permanent residence, the uncertainty of whether they will be invited and the timing of when this will occur might make the process of seeking Canadian permanent residence too unpredictable for them. As a result, they may wish to consider temporary options instead.

In order to address the concerns of U.S. citizens seeking to avoid a presidential term with Donald Trump, they would need to ensure that they could remain in Canada for at least four years. Clearly, they could not remain in Canada as tourists for such an extended period of time. So they would need to obtain a work permit or study permit in order to maintain their status for four years or more.

Younger U.S. citizens could consider seeking a study permit to attend college or university in Canada. Study permits are typically issued for the duration of an applicant's academic program but bachelor degree programs in Canada are generally four years long. Of course, even a student who is participating in a shorter program could enroll in a subsequent program and then extend their study permit.

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Unfortunately, most work permits require a Canadian employer or entity that is prepared to sponsor or otherwise support the foreign national's application. However, U.S. business owners would be in a better position to obtain work permits through their existing businesses, perhaps as intra-company transferees, NAFTA treaty investors or treaty traders. Certain professionals may also be eligible for work permits as NAFTA Professionals, if they can find a Canadian employer or entity willing to hire them. Executives, managers, and specialized knowledge workers employed by multinational companies may also seek intra-company transferee work permits, if they can convince their employers to transfer them abroad.

If a foreign national is not eligible under any of the above work permit categories, it is still possible for them to seek a Canadian work permit by obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment ("LMIA"). The LMIA process requires the Canadian employer to go through a very expensive and time-consuming procedure in order to demonstrate that no qualified Canadian workers are available. Although this route is technically available, in practice, most Canadian employers will be reluctant to attempt the LMIA process unless they believe that the foreign national is indispensable to their business.

It is clearly possible for many U.S. citizens to relocate to Canada, either on a temporary or permanent basis, but the actual process of seeking Canadian status is much more complicated than many Americans believe. Nevertheless, if Donald Trump actually does become President of the United States and U.S. citizens feel morally compelled to leave, Canada stands ready to welcome them (if they qualify of course).
Sean Gallup via Getty Images BERLIN, GERMANY - MARCH 22: A peace sign combined with the flag of the European Union lies among flowers and a candle at the steps of the Belgian Embassy following today's terrorist attacks in Brussels on March 22, 2016 in Berlin, Germany. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack in which terrorists detonated three explosives devices at Brussels airport and in a metro train and killed at least 30 people. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

At least 31 people have been killed and dozens more wounded after explosions ripped through Zaventem Airport and a metro station in Brussels last Tuesday.

The attacks came days after the arrest of Salah Abdeslam -- the lead suspect in the Paris terror attacks.

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In recent years, we've seen terror attacks like the one last Tuesday become the norm. From attacks in Brussels and Paris to Turkey, Jakarta and even here in Canada, the global terror threat affects everyone -- and both Muslims and non-Muslims are not immune to it.

As these threats increase, so has the response from governments around the world to beef up security and implement preventative measures to stop individuals from becoming radicalized. In the federal budget, the government revealed the new office of the Community Outreach and Counter-radicalization Co-ordinator will receive an additional $35 million over five years. This is aimed at supporting more grassroots organizations and communities to continue and start up anti-radicalization initiatives.

Whether its faith based NGOs like Islamic Relief Canada, community organizations, Imams, mosques or the community in general, Muslims across Canada hold the key to contributing to the fight against the current global terror threat. Engagement, Inclusiveness, trust and partnership building with Muslim communities are key to making this happen.

For the most part, mosques across Canada have recognized this and have been at the forefront of building a positive Muslim identity which the National Council of Canadian Muslims say is "integrated and civically engaged -- where violent extremist ideology is being challenged head-on by Canadian Imams and scholars."

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Combating extremism is an issue Canadian Muslims are passionate about.

Take for example, the partnership work between Muslim leaders and counter-terrorism police which led to the arrests of two men involved in the 2013 VIA Rail terror plot. In fact, counterterrorism police and former prime minster Stephen Harper publicly thanked Muslim leaders for their help in the investigation.

We've seen great success stories of terror plots being thwarted due to trust and corporation by authorities, media and Muslim communities. In the UK, the most successful counter-terrorism efforts have been as a result of grassroots work, partnership building, trust and inclusiveness between Muslims, individuals, media, authorities and community leaders.

Combating extremism is an issue Canadian Muslims are passionate about. We're just as outraged by the actions of the so-called Islamic State as the ordinary non-Muslim Canadian. That morning, our Islamic Relief offices were filled with "Please no not again" in response to the Belgian attacks. At the same time, however, we are also very concerned with the increasing number of Islamophobic attacks that have occurred in recent months in Canada. The Peterborough mosque that was set on fire and the verbal and physical attack on a hijab-wearing woman in Toronto has left many Muslims in Canada worried about their safety.

The analysis emerging from Europe in recent days have argued that the lack of trust and partnership building between authorities and Belgian Muslims was one of the reasons it took four months to locate Salah Abdeslam.

These recent events in Paris and Belgium are a lesson we can all learn from. We have come a long way in our efforts to combat extremism but there is still a lot of work to be done and it doesn't just fall on the Canadian Muslim community. It is a collective responsibility and we should all be in this fight together.

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Written by Reyhana Patel: the External Relations and Media Manager at Islamic Relief Canada

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"Injustice anywhere, is a threat to justice everywhere." These words of Martin Luther King Jr. accurately describe the world crisis we live in today.

Whether we look at Iraq & Syria, Israel & Palestine, or Russia & Ukraine, our world is heading full speed towards unprecedented deterioration. Therefore, composure in handling international relations is essential to avoid the summation of regional conflicts erupting into a world war.

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In fact, just last week we've witnessed one of the most gruesome attacks again perpetrated by ISIS on Brussels airport. This heinous and unjust crime has further heightened global terrorism and continues to bring the world towards darkness.

To avoid war and attacks as such, all nations must come together for the greater good and unite in their efforts to stop all forms of cruelty, persecution and injustice perpetrated in the name of religion or else wise.

Just this past weekend I was part of an International Peace Symposium, where the Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, addressed thousands of world-leaders and influential politicians regarding concrete and tangible ways to bring about peace in our world today.

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He mentioned that the primary solution to stopping ISIS is for countries to sanction Daesh and stop buying oil from the terrorist group.

"The solution remains, as I have already said, to act with justice, and leave aside all vested interests. The critical importance of cutting the funding and supply lines of extremist groups is vital. For example, a special investigative report published in the Wall Street Journal recently stated that Daesh was acquiring huge quantities of US dollars from auction being held by Iraq's central bank. Those same dollars were being provided to Iraq directly from the federal reserves in the US."

We're in a tangled mess, and now it seems hard to get out.

The public opinion of Islam as a religion that promotes violence also continues to feed the propaganda machines of evil groups such as Daesh.

It remains that in the media the peaceful and inclusive message of Islam continuously practiced by 1.6 billion people, is not extensively reported. While on the other hand those relatively few people involved in brutality and carnage are given non-stop, worldwide coverage and attention. There is no doubt that this plays a huge role in influencing public opinion, and so this power should be utilized responsibly as a force for good and peace. Just as important it is to report the carnage, is to report the efforts eradicating it.

After all, publicity is the oxygen sustaining most extremist or terrorist groups.

The Caliph went on to say:

"Now when we look at the world over all, in terms of conflicts between nations or groups, the golden principal for long lasting establishment of peace is: If there is a dispute between nations, or groups, third parties should seek to mediate and bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict. In the event of an agreement, all parties should act equitably, but if either party contravenes the settlement and takes aggressive measures, then the other nations should unite together and even use force, if necessary to stop the aggressor. However, once the aggressive party withdraws and adopts peace, they should not be unduly restricted, rather should be permitted to move forward as an independent nation and free society."

This interesting and accurate remedy seems to be the only seed of hope that remains in our society today.

If we look at the practice of regime change for example, it has continuously resulted in negative ramifications for our society at large. Both in Iraq and Libya, regime change has resulted in severe displacement and chaos, affecting the overall peace and stability in these regions.

For example, the West was determined to remove Saddam Hussain from Iraq and the painful consequences of that war 13 years ago are continued to be felt today. Another example is Libya, where Qaddafi was forcefully removed from office in 2011, and ever since Libya has spiraled into a state of lawlessness and chaos. A direct consequence of the political vacuum in Libya has been Daesh building a significant base and terror network in the country, which it has continued to strengthen.

What does this teach us? There is no cookie-cutter solution to remedying the world of its countless problems, and ultimately destroying Daesh, however it all boils down to justice.

Justice is the foundation upon which peace is built, and until we understand that, we will continue to tread dangerous waters, until there is no water left to tread.

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A recent blog on Mind You by psychiatrist Dr. David Laing Dawson on rationally planning mental health services made me realize that creating and implementing services for mental illness is not rocket science.

Part of my realization arose from two psychiatric emergencies that my own family had to deal with in the past year. Both had fast and positive outcomes, unlike so many others. The reasons, I think, are quite simple.

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Starting at the front line of service for serious mental illnesses are the police. Every community needs (as my own community has) a police/psychiatric professional team to respond to emergencies.

The city of Hamilton has a Crisis and Outreach Support Team called COAST. Their hotline is 24/7 but they also have a mobile team, consisting of a mental health worker and a police officer, and will respond to crisis calls between the hours of 8 a.m. and 1 a.m. daily.

To supplement that, a properly trained police force sensitive to the reality of serious mental illness and with compassion is required. Yes, there are exceptions that receive a lot of publicity, but from what I've seen personally and from what people tell me, we mostly have that now. I am continually amazed at the extent that many ordinary patrol officers go to help in these situations.

What many communities lack is an emergency department reserved for psychiatric patients and staffed by specialists which Hamilton does have.

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Of course, it has to be well integrated with the regular ER with considerable consultation so that people are not wrongly pigeonholed. As so many of you can testify to, the standard reception in ER is to isolate the psychiatric patient and keep them waiting.

Then, they are more often than not discharged over the wishes of their family. If they are admitted, it is only for a brief period of time and they are not allowed to properly stabilize. There are never enough beds in most communities.

Recently, a young suicidal girl in Ottawa spent eight nights in the ER and was discharged because their were no beds.

In Guelph, Ontario, the emergency room was brought to a standstill recently because there were so many psychiatric patients there waiting for the too-few beds available for them. One mother in Vancouver told me how her son with schizophrenia was "tossed out of" an ER in Toronto as the nurse told the mother via long distance that all he needed was a sandwich.

And that is the other crucial piece -- hospital beds. I'm fortunate to live in a community with one of the few stand alone psychiatric hospitals left in Ontario. There are beds and, while there may be shortages, people usually get to stay if they need to in order to become stabilized.

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While not every community can have its own psychiatric hospital, they should have sufficient beds in other hospitals reserved for people with psychiatric problems.

Sadly, they don't and because of that people often get discharged long before they should as the pressure for more emergency beds increases. Thus, what we get are very sick people hospitalized long enough to take the edge off the worst of their symptoms, and then tossed out so more emergencies can be handled.

It is the revolving door that we have now. The Vancouver mother I cited above also told me that:

Ten years ago, again in Toronto, my son was turfed out of hospital after a couple of weeks, at night, into freezing February winter, with no money, no friends or relatives at hand ... nothing. It was a terrifying scramble for us, 3,000 miles away, to try to get him into a hotel so he wouldn't freeze to death on the streets. Looks like nothing has changed.

What is important for those who do have the fortune to stay long enough to be stabilized is to have a caring competent staff who treat them and their families. Hiding behind fake privacy to exclude families from treatment and discharge decisions saves no one other than incompetents who fear oversight.

Finally, the last piece is proper discharge planning. No one should be discharged without a place to stay, follow-up with an outpatient clinic or community medical staff, and sufficient supports to help them maintain their improvement.

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When governments don't want to do something but want to give the appearance of doing something, they set up a task force or committee to investigate and bring back a report. It looks good to some but does nothing and that is what so many jurisdictions do.

Maybe it is because I live in Ontario, but this province is the master when it comes to this. Between 1983 and 2011, there have been 16 reports done by the Ontario government on reforming mental health care and few changes. I haven't bothered to add in all that has gone on since then, but it would add to the numbers.

The solution is easy but getting there is not. We will only get there when we continue to press the politicians and drag them into doing what any civilized community should do and that is to properly care for those who are ill. And by that, I mean all the ill.

First published on Mind You: Reflections on Mental Illness, Mental Health and Life March 21, 2016 by Marvin Ross

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With crude oil prices fluctuating as wildly as the stock market, nobody questions the reasons for economic crisis occurring in Alberta, Canada. When the affluent western province suffers an economic downfall, the entire country is affected. People with high paying jobs may now need to leave Alberta and move to greener pastures. Unemployment continues to increase in greater proportions. The unemployment rate in Alberta witnessed a drastic rise from 4.7 per cent in 2014 to 7.9 per cent in 2016.

Oil prices and unemployment are not the only things to consider. Unstable climatic conditions have caused Alberta farmers to lift their sowing hands in despair. Crops in 2016 may yield less than favourable outcomes due to drier weather conditions. When a large province no longer produces its share of crops, the general economy is bound to face negative effects.

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Introducing Montreal's Mayor Denis Coderre and his opposing views

While the Energy East Pipeline project holds promising hope for Albert's faltering economy, Mayor Denis Coderre of Montreal has taken a strong stand against it. For some people, the topic of oil production raises ecological outcries. For others, producing oil in Alberta means a vastly improved economy for the province and other provinces throughout Canada. Instead of offering negative viewpoints, governmental officials may want to consider the consequences if the master plan is terminated. Abundant oil in Alberta offers a way to increase jobs, productivity and stability for all Canadians, in spite of other pressing problems.

Other Industries Offer a Positive Economic Perspective for Alberta

In spite of economic instability, Alberta has grown and will continue to grow in the midst of dire economic predictions by financial spectators. Those who actually live in Alberta have observed growth in the construction industry, finance and various types of business services. I myself live in Edmonton, and have experienced no shortage of business since opening my own digital marketing agency in January 2016. I asked John Cameron, owner of one of the biggest construction companies in Edmonton, if Alberta is doomed to live the rest of its existence as an impoverished province. Mr. Cameron, without batting an eye, stated his emphatic opinion that "Alberta will continue to survive in face of it's temporary economic slump."

Lower Business Taxes Continue to Attract New Entrepreneurs to Alberta

Since business owners in Alberta pay extremely low taxes, the area will continue to attract new businesses. An entrepreneur with a large business located in Alberta only pays a 10 per cent corporate tax. A small business owner's taxes equal approximately three per cent. Business owners in the Alberta province can focus on growing their businesses because they do not need to worry about paying high taxes. With zero capital taxes or general sales taxes offering strong competition in comparison with other Canadian provinces, Alberta has a strong future in that regard.

A Recession is Not the End of Alberta

Even if Alberta does go into recession mode, the province is bound to recover. Higher oil prices combined with successful retail businesses and a modest demand for new homes help Alberta retain strength and vitality. Tourism is another positive avenue to consider. With the prospect of tourists continuing to visit Alberta now and in subsequent decades, merchants can harbor positive thoughts about their livelihoods. While some residents may leave the province, others will continue to persevere and grow. In a world of pessimistic forecasts, positive energies endure. With abundant small businesses and entrepreneurs who do not give up easily, Alberta will survive and thrive.

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CP

I used to believe the job of politicians was to represent. To give voice to the everyday person, especially the vulnerable and powerless. To set aside ego and serve the greater good.

But everyone says: politics is a dirty game. Honest folk become less so once they step into the ring. A recent survey showed that Canadians thought "in politics, being unethical is often what it takes to win."

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I believe it.

I am completely disillusioned by the Ontario Liberals and in particular, Health Minister Eric Hoskins, the man who is supposed to champion health care in Ontario. And I mean all of health care, not just nurses and hospitals, but doctors too because we each play a vital role.

On March 23, Hoskins held a press conference that shifted blame, distorted facts and maligned doctors. The aftermath was worse.

In his speech, Hoskins adopted an absurdly bipolar attitude towards doctors: Ontario's physicians should be the best paid but they have "out of control" incomes. They should offer around-the-clock accessibility but they work too hard seeing too many patients and hence, cost too much for the system to support. Ontario's physicians are outstanding but they are the sole reason why the health-care system is unsustainable.

You can't commend and condemn doctors in the same breath.

Hoskins ended by pitting family doctor against specialist, targeting specifically the ophthalmologists.

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Ophthalmologists. The guys who perform sight-saving surgeries. The ones who have been cut three times in three successive years. The ones who take out million-dollar loans to run surgical clinics that Medicare will not fund. Clearly Ontario, your eye doctors are robbing you blind.

My immediate reaction: buddy, you can't have it both ways. You can't commend and condemn doctors in the same breath.

My next: why is Hoskins obfuscating the truth? He knows full well that research ranks Ontario's doctors among the lowest paid in Canada.

Hoskins also knows that physician payment is via the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. Ontario's doctors do not and cannot control OHIP. The Ministry of Health regulates and monitors OHIP. Moreover, the Ministry audits physician billings. Hoskins has an army of bureaucrats to chase down cases of fraudulent billing. So why is he fanning flames when there is no fire?

In the hours following the press conference, articles denouncing "out of control" physicians popped up in several newspapers. Actually, it was one article by one journalist that ran in over 30 media outlets across Canada: small-town locals, large urban dailies, national newspapers and all the way up the chain to major conglomerates. Even the staunchly conservative Toronto Sun printed it.

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In that moment, I lost faith in the Liberals ever redeeming themselves. Hoskins manipulated media to undermine public trust in doctors. I suspect he is setting the stage to justify more cuts to physician funding. The last Liberal cuts in October 2015 heralded disaster: clinic after clinic closed until patients slept on emergency department floors waiting for beds, or worse, died on waitlists.

So what can I do with a government hell-bent on a course that is clearly harmful to my patients?

I make noise. Ontario's doctors are holding a rally at Queen's Park on April 23 and I will be there. The last time the doctors rallied, the public listened and the riding voted blue. There is power in standing together and speaking out against the black hats.

As for political leadership, I'm holding out for a hero. A white hat. The likes of Cincinnatus, a man who walked away from absolute power once the job was done. Someone who exemplifies civic duty.

Many wonder: is that man Progressive Conservative leader Patrick Brown?

In an unprecedented move, Brown shifted the authority to create party policy away from close advisors out to the general public. Think about it: ordinary folk, regardless of political affiliation, can influence the PC platform. This public referendum is a first in PC history, a first for any political party. Brown has set himself the task of reinventing the provincial PCs. And it sounds like he will keep his promise to represent the everyday voice.

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As each month passes, he seems to be nudging the PCs closer to a more centered political philosophy.

"Whatever it takes to make Ontario work again" is a quote often-attributed to Brown, a quote that suggests potential for growth. He is now known for his energetic outreach and grassroots consultation. Every week, he tweets about time spent in discussion with someone else: refugees, visible minorities, police officers, firefighters, nurses, and even doctors -- folks that are relative unknowns, who haven't always been reflected by the PC party and who have traditionally voted red.

His promise: everyone gets a voice at his table. And after months of being steamrolled by the Liberals, this is a refreshing change. Brown's brand is transformation where the PCs are adopting liberal, socially-conscious policies.

Thirteen years of watching the provincial Liberals become synonymous with scandal, corruption and mismanagement have left me wanting a return to innocence. I want to believe in my government again.

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I want someone who balances fiscal responsibility with social justice, "prosperity with compassion."

Will Patrick Brown be the kind of leader who finally holds himself accountable to us, the ordinary folk?

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Tesla Motors

It's been a short three years since Tesla Motors first opened its doors to consumers in Canada. It's also no secret that Tesla, and the chief grandeur that is Elon Musk, have found a successful formula comfortably nestled between luxury, technology, and user experience. While this isn't my first rodeo writing about Musk and his well-accounted endeavours, as a company Tesla has inspired a forward-thinking lifestyle that advocates change in the way people perceive driving. Sure, there are numerous well-received all-electric cars on the market, but there's one primary difference: Tesla's mission statement is centred around the growth of electric vehicles. At the core, what's fascinating is the high volume of Tesla owners that are not only self-promoting their love for the brand via word-of-mouth, but have also enhanced the culture of electrification and the betterment for the environment.

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The first quarter of 2016 has been an important one for Tesla. Not only has their Model X SUV been in the forefront of nearly every public appearance, but the big launch of their newest vehicle, the Model 3, officially begins at the end of this month. I witnessed the hype at last week's Model X Customer Event at the Tesla showroom -- excitement that both the staff and owners shared delightfully.

Tesla-approved owners clubs have been speaking at auto shows and events on behalf of the company. Although owners clubs have been around for decades, its integration into public events is rather unique. When you talk with employees or salespeople, there's generally a "pitch" in the way they speak. When you talk with an owner of a Tesla -- who is at times more excited to talk about it than anyone in the galaxy -- there's more authenticity in first hand experience. The logic applies to virtually anyone that's been told "I have this and love it." It's also unique because the experience-first approach can be more accepting than sell-first.

Left: John Dixon, founder of the Tesla Owners Group of Southern Ontario. Centre: Martin Paquet, Store Manager at Tesla on Lawrence.

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Meet John, Tesla hobbyist, early adopter, and founder of the Tesla Owners Group of Southern Ontario. John is a proud owner of a Model S P85D, and he's credited with pulling together a localized Tesla community with over 200 owners. He and some of his members are typically present at most events and auto shows to verbalize the experience of owning a Tesla. The group includes owners of all types: from blue to white collar, early 30s to late 70s. What pulls this generationally diverse group together? The electrification and charging of vehicles for an environmentally friendly future. Sure, technology is pretty cool to talk about, but what it really boils down to is the electric solution and the retreat from "ICE" cars (internal combustion engine cars), or so they call them.

Our conversation with Martin, manager of the Tesla showroom, swayed towards the key selling factors of a Tesla -- the largest being the cash saved from skipping the gas stations. The all-electric Model X goes 400 kilometres before it needs to be plugged in for the evening, which can be done either at home or at many of the charging stations located across the country. In the long run, even if there is an extra monthly cost to upgrade to a Tesla, the justification of driving electric makes it a worthwhile expenditure for cost-efficient buyers. Also, with fewer internal moving parts and less vehicle fluids, the minimal maintenance makes Tesla a popular choice.

After a brief chat, we hopped into the Model X for an exceedingly quick highway drive, with John at the helm.

If the falcon wing doors are arguably the most significant feature on the exterior, the massive touch-screen on the console is its complement on the interior. Although the Big Sky panoramic windshield does get a (gigantic) nod.

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This is also the point in which I discovered the "Ludicrous" mode. While the Huffington Post had previously featured funny reaction videos on "Insane" mode, Ludicrous is the next boost up. It's kind of like being teleported into Canada's Wonderland's Behemoth for about three seconds. OK, I might be mildly exaggerating, but that's the feeling I had when we hit 100 km/hour in less than three seconds. Felt like Marty McFly on his first time-traveling ride with Doc.

By the end of March, the chatter will shift to the Model 3, their first appearance in the fierce competition over basic luxury (think BMW 3 series, Audi A4, and the Mercedes Benz C-Class). The hype reverberates beyond the troops of Tesla; it extends to a new group of potential vehicle owners who are itching for the experience of luxury technology at a competitive price point.

The culture of Tesla has re-inspired progression in a slow moving industry. Buyer excitement sits in the future of automotive: from becoming hooked on electric, to the limitless possibilities of driving technology. They crave the prowess of powerful electric engines, and enjoy the luxuries of community and experience. If there are three beliefs that really charge up a Tesla owner, it's optimism, environmental responsibility, and simplicity.

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To catch the first public glimpse of the Model 3, the unveiling will be live streamed on March 31st at 8:30 p.m. PST on Tesla.com.
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"Oh mischief, thou art swift to enter in the thoughts of desperate men!"

- William Shakespeare

On March 24, 2016, Eric Hoskins held, what his chief of staff said was an update on the "Patients First" action plan the Ontario Liberal government has been promoting. While the video of his talk has been taken down, certainly the initial part of his presentation started off with an update, but rapidly degenerated towards the end with a bitter volley launched at Ontario doctors, who the government has been at odds with for over two years now over a Physician Services Agreement (PSA).

Two things immediately happened as a result of this, both of which, I would argue, were easily predictable by anyone with a modicum of political sense.

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First, the media, via a Canadian Press article, picked up Hoskins blasting doctors, in a story that showed up in newspapers as far away as Winnipeg. In doing so, they focused solely on the attack on physicians, and completely ignored the rest of what was in his speech.

The real question then becomes, knowing what the inevitable consequences of launching a such a brazen attack on physicians were, why would he do it?

Good thing too from Hoskins' point of view, as the first part of his speech was pretty bland, uninspiring and easily refutable stuff (summarized here). We're spending more on addiction treatments you say? Then why are addiction clinics closing? Oh yes, and you're spending more on mental health? But then why are mental health units closing? Lather, rinse, repeat for just about every other point he made in the first ten minutes.

The second thing that happened was that there was a torrent of refutations, condemnations, and outright insults on twitter, internet posts and other media by angry physicians, and the OMA. I simply don't believe that Hoskins and his political team would not have anticipated both of these outcomes from his speech.

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The real question then becomes, knowing what the inevitable consequences of launching a such a brazen attack on physicians were, why would he do it? At a time when relations between government and physicians is at an historic low, and something like 70 per cent of new graduates are considering leaving the province when they finish their training, what possible benefit did Eric Hoskins think would come of this?

The answer, as always with this government, is purely political. The Liberals are aware that there is a groundswell of dissatisfaction with their government. Even the normally pro-Liberal Toronto Star commented on this regarding the resounding defeat the Liberal's suffered in the Whitby Oshawa by election. They even wrote about Premier Wynne's exceptionally low (21 per cent) approval rating.

On top of all that, there are numerous health-care crises that are popping up all over the province. Whether it's hospital after hospital after hospital cutting staff and laying off nurses, delays to much needed orthopaedic surgery, closures of clinics or even dermatologists leaving areas of need, the list of health-care fires can only reasonably be expected to grow, with each passing day that the Liberals don't agree to a deal with their physicians.

So, the Liberals were faced with two choices. First, they could agree to return to a negotiation with their physicians with binding arbitration (an option given even to prison guards!) as a back up, if negotiations failed. They would perhaps have to eat a little bit of crow if they did so, and there would almost certainly have been an increase in the physician services budget, but at the very least there would be willing partners to help with the transformation agenda Hoskins' espouses.

Or, they could revert to the old political trick of identifying an adversary and "othering" them. Try to divide the doctors ("hey you, family docs, you'd make more if it wasn't for those high billing ophthalmologists"). Frame the argument to the public that you can either pay doctors, or have other health care services (eg. Home Care) but not both. By doing so, create the impression that doctors are the enemy, and that their pay directly robs the public of other needed health services.

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Sadly for the people of Ontario they chose the latter approach. Rather than show real leadership and work with physicians, the Liberals, desperate to increase their popularity and to cover up their mismanagement of the health-care system, have chosen to vilify the one group of people that could reasonably have helped not only them, but the people of Ontario, in improving the health-care system.

It's true that this type of American attack politics works in the short term. I noticed that none of the newspapers that picked up the Canadian Press article bothered to dig deeper into Hoskins' speech, and ask him any tough questions about all his erroneous facts in the first ten minutes of his speech. The mainstream media got it's one note story "Hoskins blames doctors over billing for health care woes" and ran with that, saving Hoskins the embarrassment of being proven wrong on his assertions that the health care system is improving.

However, in the long term, it will only be the people of Ontario that suffer, as this type of desperate political gambit will do nothing to improve their health care.

Hoskins (and Premier Wynne) need to stop with the petty politics and work constructively with all the front line health-care workers (remember, they are laying off nurses too) to run the health care system. That's what they were elected to do. It's about time they started to do it.
Two recent stints of volunteering, in Kenya and Calais, caused me to review the 'voluntourism' debate. The literature that objects to volunteering may tread on delicate territory: maligning other's altruistic intensions could be irresponsible. However, perhaps such commentary sombrely reveals hard-truths that others dare not expose for fear of upsetting do-gooders. The objections to 'voluntourism' could be so strong that they must take precedence over the needs of volunteers such as me who want to feel good about themselves.

Yet, surveying the journalistic (as opposed to academic) commentary which criticises volunteering, it quickly becomes clear that, far from the objections to volunteering being watertight, they are threadbare. Objectors offer up banal, superficial statements bereft of any nuance that convey more about the author than anything worthwhile.

A common criticism is that volunteering 'harms the local economy'. Jobs are taken that locals would be far more skilled in. However, volunteers can do important but easily learnt tasks that can liberate locals to do other, more demanding pursuits. Well managed volunteering trips can empower the local economy, rather than drain it. 'Amateur' volunteers have value: sorting out donated shoes in a warehouse in Calais was unremarkable, but it was important in itself and freed up those more expert to carry out complex work.

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Even if the local economy is not disrupted, volunteers might have 'no understanding of the local culture or community.' However, what constitutes a sufficient threshold of understanding is rarely explained. Demanding requirements to do with understanding are not applied to other areas of civic engagement. How much understanding do people have of a local community down the road that contains different ethnicities or those from a different socio-economic background? The hollowing out of local communities means that the answer is often little. But this should encourage volunteering in the local community, rather than stopping it. If one volunteer's in a community where having an understanding of that culture is a necessary precondition for being able to make a contribution, it's their responsibility to go with an appropriate company or if necessary, liaise with the appropriate local people.

Another criticism is that volunteers have insufficient skills or expertise. Of course, volunteers should not undertake inappropriate activities. But who is to blame when this does happen? A volunteer company, just as with any company, is responsible, and should be criticised if it gives workers tasks they aren't qualified for. So long as the volunteer does proper research before they enter into a volunteering arrangement, they are not blameworthy. Critiques of volunteering often hone in on some shambolic, terribly organised experience. But just because some companies repeatedly partake in incompetence, this does not make all volunteering intrinsically flawed.

Straw men are routinely created to lambast volunteers. Apparently all volunteers think they are "like Clark Kent". People volunteer to "assuage the guilt of their privilege" and the extent of the gap between rich and poor globally. They volunteer "simply to look good", posting praise-seeking photos on social media. Yet, whilst some volunteers might overestimate their capacities, the ideal of the volunteer approaching their activities with humility is very attainable. Sneering at those who volunteer to try to redress global poverty seems ill-targeted: focus instead on government policies or global governance arrangements that actually do sustain global poverty. The very act of volunteering need not be selfless in order to be worthwhile. People are often self-congratulatory about achievements - posting statuses about job offers or degree results. Why must volunteering be in the realm of moral purity to be defensible?

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The most sanctimonious of all criticisms are claims along the lines of 'volunteering is Empire in a different guise' or 'white Westerners are neo-colonialists in their need to save locals.' Of course, volunteers should be aware how the legacy of empire can manifest itself, especially in former colonies. Reading Martin Meredith's epic The State of Africa: A History of the Continent Since Independence whilst in Kenya caused personal discomfort at some of the similarities between my reasons for being there and the benevolent proclamations former colonialists used to justify their illegitimate presence. Care must be taken to avoid the dynamic of the benevolent and brilliant Westerner and the local community as passive recipient.

But to claim that all volunteering must stop because of Empire's legacy denies the possibility of worthwhile volunteering and arrogantly presumes to know, without further enquiry, what the priorities of locals are. As one Kenyan I worked with put it to me: what angers locals far more than Empire is corrupt domestic politicians. Empire might have led to a system that nurtures such corruption, but this should not be used an excuse by a local politician who embezzles funds. Nor should the spectre of Empire lead to the unhelpful claim that 'locals always know best'. Often they do. But sometimes they do not, and sometimes locals can really benefit from the skills, expertise and experience that can be uniquely cultivated in developed countries. Oversensitivity should not smother arriving at the best solutions. It was a joy to watch the Kenyan charity's IT expert captivated by an article about Sugata Mitra's 'School in Cloud' that I pointed his way, which I was fortunate enough to come across by dint of my educational background.

Broad sweeping statements such as those about empire or neo-colonialism are mere virtue signalling, where objectors to volunteering show off to like-minded individuals just how very virtuous they are. It is a manifestation of what the American writer Matt Bruenig describes as "purity leftism", where the interest is above all "to be able to say that they are not oppressing." Such perspectives debase the debate about volunteering, rather than contributing to it.

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This is not to deny that volunteering can be very problematic. The charity in Kenya had become something of a quasi-government service, making up for the inadequacies of existing child care in the region. Ideally, a charity should run in tandem with such an important government service, rather than replacing it or becoming a government's excuse to not get their act together. Separately, charities can succumb to indulgent rivalry, at the expense of co-ordination. In Calais, there were many charities working for the refugee camps. Perhaps refugees would be served more effectively if these many charities were rolled into one.

Caution is needed to maintain the balance between curiosity and helping. Much volunteer work in Calais was done in the somewhat underwhelming cold, dank warehouse. But a likely draw for most volunteers was intrigue about the 'The Jungle'. When we did walk through the refugee camp, one companion urged us to "walk with purpose", to differentiate ourselves from curious tourists indifferent to justifying their presence. However, so long as curiosity is accompanied by worthwhile graft, it is a sensation which does not need to cause guilt.

What should be scrutinised instead of the altruistic intensions of volunteers are inadequate companies. Volunteering is a popular but unregulated industry. There are lots of terrible companies in an industry that is worth $2 billion annually and around 10 million people volunteering each year. Tourism Concern is one company that provides some scrutiny, but there should be more. There could be the equivalent of TripAdvisor or Amazon reviews, which becomes the go-to place for those who seek an effectively organised volunteer experience. There could also be an organisation, composed of experts in development, who could 'accredit' volunteering organisations. It will broaden the potential of volunteering if there is greater scrutiny and oversight.

Good intensions should be channelled appropriately, rather than maligned or sneered at. Many young people spend holiday time in corporate internships, occasionally working for companies that make a dubious contribution to society. It is far better they be encouraged to at least consider volunteering. Furthermore, the personal benefits of volunteering need to be suppressed. It is quite benign to emphasise that volunteering can both help out those in need, whilst also develop skills and provide experiences that can benefit the volunteer.

What warrants more scrutiny than volunteering is the generic route without a break of: school, university and a non-stop career until retirement and death. An American volunteer commented to me that to many in the USA, breaking this route would cause a shocking 'hole' in the CV.

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I don't know how to feel about my impending visit to the refugee camps in Calais and Dunkirk. I am not ashamed to admit I'm a mass of conflicting emotions. I am looking forward to it and dreading it in equal measure. I keep telling myself it will be okay. It's not like I haven't witnessed human misery. I worked in Sri Lanka a few years after the tsunami hit but close enough for it still to be impacting on people. I spoke to people who had lost every family member. I met someone from the Democratic Republic of the Congo once whose 17 year old niece was gang raped by soldiers as her family were forced to watch. I met sisters who, as children, watched their father being gunned down. I have heard it all.

But that's not the same as seeing it. Seeing it as it happens. What I've watched of The Jungle in Calais seems unbearable. But those who've been, tell me NOTHING prepares you for being there. And on Monday afternoon myself and three SNP MPs from the Westminster SNP Justice and Home Affairs Team will arrive with a delegation of experts on refugee matters including two refugees themselves. We will spend four days bearing witness to what's really going on over there. We're expecting it to be painful. But if it seems unbearable, I feel a duty to keep reminding myself that it's not me who has to bear it, it's them. It's their pain, not mine and it absolutely has to be about them, not us.

I remember a few years back at the start of the Syrian exodus, I was in Kurdistan accompanying Bob Doris the Member of the Scottish Parliament I was doing some work for.

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We were invited to visit a makeshift Syrian refugee camp. It was in a primary school building. The schools were on holiday, the refugees were unexpected and it was the only place to house them. A woman who was watching her two kids like hawks explained that she was doing so because she'd watched her other 2 kids be gunned down in Syria. She started to cry. The interpreter cried. I stood there, panic rising, feeling myself about to cry but being torn because I knew it wasn't my pain. I was concentrating so hard on not crying that I ended up just standing staring at her. I came to eventually and I told her how sorry I was, I said the things you would expect me to say. I worried that I would seem uncaring because I wasn't crying but I think she could see I wasn't finding it easy.

I am also expecting to feel a huge amount of guilt. It may not be rational but when is it ever? I might be freezing or too hot, I might be in pain from whatever physical work they have us doing, I might be exhausted and emotional. But I will be leaving on Thursday afternoon and that night, I'll be back home to my very nice lifestyle. How long before any of them have even comfort or security never mind anything resembling a nice life? Why should I have life so much easier just because I was born in a more stable part of the world? I can't imagine I'd ever have the guts they've shown in taking the journeys they've taken so how come my cowardice is rewarded and their bravery ignored?

And then there's the helplessness. I've been one of many voices imploring the Home Secretary to change her mind about bringing some of the refugees over from these camps but it's done no good, she is resolute, she will not help them. It is a bitter pill to swallow knowing that even with the letters MP after your name, sometimes it means nothing. I imagine it will feel a whole lot worse when I witness something worse than my imaginings, when my evidence is no longer simply anecdotal and still I can do nothing.

What I will do is continue to speak out. We will be listening to everything in Calais and Dunkirk, taking it all in. We want to understand what's going on, we want to know why people made those treacherous journeys, what they were running away from and how the Jungle can possibly be so much better an option for them. When we understand, the mission of the entire delegation will be to make others understand and when they do, maybe they'll do something about it.

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Communicating climate change is difficult. Or at least, it is difficult to have productive and positive conversations about how best to respond to climate change. Unfortunately, it seems it is much easier to get people's agreement to messages which say climate change is all a load of rubbish made up by scientists riding a lucrative gravy train.

This difficulty of communicating climate change stems in part from the way politicians and the media have allowed climate change to drop down the news agenda. The vacuum left behind has been filled by sceptic and doubting voices. This has been especially so since the financial crisis of 2008 and the perceived failure of the Copenhagen climate summit in 2009. Research indicates strong and consistent attention to climate change by politicians is a strong determinant of public opinion. We have been paying the price for that lack of attention and consistent messaging from our politicians.

2015 - yet another year of climate extremes

But maybe that's all about to change. 2015 was not just a record warm year. It was such a huge departure from the record breaking temperatures of the previous ten years that it could well herald the birth of a new era in the earth's existence, and human history. Tim Flannery calls such moments of powerful climatic shifts 'gateways'. These gateways are periods when the Earth's climate system experiences shocks that shift it permanently into a different set of norms. There is therefore a real possibility 2015 is a new baseline from which global temperatures will continue their inexorable rise. We have broken the one degree Celsius global warming barrier and we aren't going back.

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It wasn't just that temperatures went crazy. It was also a year of yet ever more weather extremes. From disappearing snow in America to unprecedented flooding in the UK, things are already getting undeniably crazy. Is it possible for politicians to remain silent in the face of this accelerating chaos?

The politicians start to speak

Sir David Attenborough has said he believes it would now be political suicide for a political leader to deny climate change. If true that is welcome news. Amber Rudd, the UK Climate and Energy Secretary, admitted the recent UK floods were part of a growing trend in extreme weather events that is at least in part attributable to climate change. However, the other possibility is that politicians say what they think the public want to hear on climate change, with no intention of ever acting on their words. One researcher shared an example of that kind of thinking.

Discussing a conference they attended four years ago the researcher reported the words of someone close to the Conservative party who reassured the attendees that they were not to lose any sleep whatsoever about the government's attitude to green issues - it was simply a matter of going through the motions for the sake of public appearances.

When will the public start to speak?

It is too early to tell how the recent storms have impacted on public concern about climate change and whether that concern has led to a greater willingness to talk about what has to date been a taboo subject for polite conversation. But research carried out following the floods of 2012-2013 indicates that, perhaps unsurprisingly, extreme events do have an impact on levels of public concern about climate change.

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But if that expression of public concern is ignored by policymakers, it can quickly turn into despair and apathy. A project I completed last year revealed that decision makers and key players would rather avoid having the public involved in the climate change debate at all. Instead the hope is to find solutions which allow life to carry on as normal without the public ever even knowing anything has changed.

This seems a treacherous strategy. Even if it were possible to meet the current climate change targets, and do so without needing to make any changes to the way we use our energy, (and it's not) we will still need to make sense of living in a world undergoing radical changes to the weather and posing new and ever more potent risks to our well being as individuals and as a society.

It is therefore essential that a long, loud and inclusive national conversation about climate change gets underway. We need to be building inclusive and accessible debates from the ground up, rooted in people's lived experience and the values that they hold dear. This will mean building a national strategy for talking about climate change. It will also require finding ways of getting people talking about climate change at work, in the pub, over a cup of tea and at the dinner table.
Sir Simon Jenkins, a former editor of The Times, opines that "The scariest thing about Brussels is our reaction to it." [The Guardian, 24 March 2016]. Jenkins is right to caution against over-reacting to terrorism, but under-reacting is even more dangerous. The media frenzy over every terrorist incident must indeed delight the terrorists. Maximum publicity is exactly what they want in order to cow - to terrorize -- the population. They must rub their hands with glee every time one of their exploits becomes "Breaking News" and dominates the news and the talking heads for days.

Morbid Curiosity

The media can of course defend their obsession on grounds of public interest - in both senses of the term: first, that it is in the public interest to be kept informed, but secondly just simply pandering to the public's morbid curiosity.

The media can also get on their high horse about holding the government and security services to account, but revealing that the authorities are in disarray plays straight into the hands of the terrorists. And the authorities are themselves far too open about the progress (or lack thereof) of their enquiries in pursuit of suspects. Terrorists watch television too!

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The one big exception to all this is where the media assist the apprehension of terrorist suspects by publishing their photographs and asking members of the public to turn them in. In this respect at least the media play a valuable role in combating terrorism.

Naive

Simon Jenkins boldly declares that: "We know that, in reality, life in Britain has never been safer." If that appears to be so, it is only by virtue of the brave efforts of our security services in nipping terrorist plots in the bud. In October 2015 Andrew Parker, the head of MI5, revealed that six planned attacks had been thwarted in the previous 12 months. [The Independent, 16 November 2015[. Nothing daunted, Simon Jenkins cites with approval an academic's opinion that the threat to democracy is not the "limited danger of death and destruction", but the danger "of provoking ill-judged, extravagant and counterproductive state responses". Tell that to the innocent victims of terrorist atrocities: "The murder of your loved ones was the inevitable result of a limited danger, but don't worry we still have our democracy!"

Besides being callous, this attitude is naive and also short-sighted. With or without media hype, the danger of terrorism will inevitably affect people's behaviour, making them increasingly distrustful of their neigbours and afraid to board a plane or even a train: a lockdown mentality will pervade the land.

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"The Kerensky Syndrome"

Moreover, under-reacting to terrorism, as Jenkins suggests, will only embolden the terrorists further. This is what I call "the Kerensky Syndrome". Alexander Kerensky was the democratic socialist Prime Minister of Russia after the "February Revolution", the first revolution of 1917. His relaxed liberal policy and weak government gave an opening to Lenin and his Bolsheviks to seize power in the misnamed "October Revolution" later that same year, resulting in nearly 75 years of Communist rule. Kerensky himself was lucky enough to escape to America and spent the rest of his life puzzling over why democracy had failed in Russia. He never realized that the cause was his own government's weakness in the face of Lenin's ruthlessness. A similar pattern can be detected in the fall of Germany's liberal democratic Weimar Republic in the face of Nazi terrorism. [See Michael Arnheim, Two Models of Government, 2016].

Rights vs. Rights
First, I've a personal interest to declare. My twin sister Jenny, who died nearly 20 years ago when we were 27, had cerebral palsy. It's been part of the fabric of my life as the non-disabled twin. I certainly wouldn't need an awareness month to bring it to my attention. And yet it's preoccupied me. Perhaps it's something to do with re-appraising Jenny and my memories of her, that's set it off - I keep thinking of what she's have made of today's state of play.

This week has seen the resignation of UK Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith (IDS) over cuts to disability benefits, with a swipe at the government's motto that 'we're all in it together'. Was this genuine, and if so, what's prompted this sudden change of heart? Perhaps - as widely believed - his real motivation had little to do with benefits and much to do with the EU referendum, or some other political agenda. Who knows? I can imagine Jenny and I trying to tease it out, and getting nowhere in particular. What's harder to imagine is Jenny's response to the build-up to IDS's resignation. For several days, tensions had been simmering in the Conservative Party. I can't think of another instance where a disability issue had been so prominent, let alone scuppering the implementation of the Budget.

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The cuts, had the government gone ahead, would of course have been the culmination of a sustained programme. A programme of PIPs (Personal Independence Payments) and the spare room subsidy or 'bedroom tax'. A softer version of the PIPs assessments was around in Jenny's day, but we wouldn't have foreseen the bedroom tax, which would have penalised Jenny for the second room in her specially adapted bungalow. The room where she kept her wheelchairs, and where I stayed that last summer I visited, shortly before her death. What a waste it would have been, pressuring her to move out of a building adapted for her needs, possibly undoing all those adjustments, and then having to install them again at a one-bedroom property somewhere else, to the cost of tens of thousands of pounds. Ironically, two MPs with cerebral palsy helped vote through this programme of cuts. Back in the mid-1990s, I don't think either Jenny or me would have envisaged a House of Commons with disabled MPs - particularly Conservative ones. Jenny would have been dismayed that two of them would add their votes to a programme hurting the disabled. At the start of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, on 2 March, they both voted to reject a House of Lords plan for an impact assessment of a 30-a-week cut to Employment and Support Allowance for the disabled.

Jenny and I had first-hand experience of the '90s recession: I graduated straight into it, and had a painful struggle to find work. The 2008 recession, coming as it did, after a sustained period of boom, didn't feel all that unexpected. But back in the '90s, I don't think that either of us would've predicted the hardening of the social mood that would come with it - the lack of concern and at times sheer hostility towards the disabled or the vulnerable. We grew up at a time when Scope was called The Spastics Society. Jenny was proud to be involved in consultations leading to its name change. What would she say about the retrograde attitudes of the past few years?

Another news story this week caught my attention. Twenty-one years on from the Disability Discrimination Act (now subsumed in the Equality Act 2010), a House of Lords Committee chaired by Baroness Deech found that we're getting nowhere fast. People simply aren't making the 'reasonable adjustments' that disabled people are entitled to. Taxi drivers can get away with speeding past a person in a wheelchair only to pick up a non-disabled passenger a few yards on. And Crossrail nearly saw seven of its 40 stations without disabled access! Over 20 years ago, Jenny chained herself to a train in West Yorkshire to protest against a lack of disabled access. She'd have been appalled that it might have been so nearly necessary again, and that in such a flagship London infrastructure project which bills itself: 'A world-class new railway for London and the south east'.

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And then there's science - never a strong point for either of us. Who would have thought that today, some parents would be seeking medical help to stunt the growth of their severely disabled children? This weekend's New York Times carries a feature on the ethics of this practice, which over the past ten years has been applied to children with severe combined learning and physical disabilities. The NYT feature tells the story of Ricky Preslar, a nine-year old with cerebral palsy and microcephaly. With hormonal intervention, Ricky's stature has stabilised to that of an average four-year old, so as to allow his parents to continue being able to provide the level of physical care he needs - without a bigger, heavier body to lift. It goes without saying how controversial this practice is. It's certainly complex, both ethically and emotionally. Sometimes I think wistfully of what Jenny may have brought to a conversation about this sort of issue.
A little over 100 days ago I started a personal project. It was soon after the Paris bombings and the news and my social media feed was filled with tragedy. Anger and hate seemed to be rising up within the public consciousness, and virtually emanating from my computer screen.

I strongly believe that what we focus on expands. And I felt that if we continued to focus on what divides us, we would only see an escalation of animosity. So I decided instead to concentrate my energies on love and the beauty of life. It was a small gesture.

One of my favourite mantras that I often repeat to myself, especially when I'm feeling discontent is, "I love life and life loves me" (which I have written about before). It never fails to reaffirm my connection with life and and makes me feel loved in return. So I decided to use this as my starting point.

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Every day for 100 days I shared a photograph (or video) through social media with the hashtag #ilovelife. A photograph that captured an experience, a moment, a thing, an event, that brought me joy or love or wisdom or peace. Big, small, silly, serious, it didn't matter as long as it revealed the splendour of the everyday and made me grateful. I posted my first photo from Seoul where I was travelling for work at the time. And in an uncanny full-circle moment, I landed back in Seoul on Day 100.

Now that the project is complete I thought I'd share the 6 major lessons I learnt on the journey.

1. Gratitude is a choice and there is always something to be grateful for. Even when all three kids have chicken pox

The first few weeks I was inspired. Everything was new and fresh. Finding #ilovelife moments was easy. Family cuddles. That first sip of green tea in the morning. Laughing with friends over a home-cooked meal. But by Day 25 I didn't feel like posting anything at all. It was not that anything specifically bad happened that day, but I was exhausted and overwhelmed. All three kids had the chicken pox, and I was drowning in work. It's easy to be grateful and love life when things are going well. But of course, not every day is like that. Most days have their ups and downs and some days feel all down.

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However, undertaking this project made me seek out the beautiful, joyful and loving moments in life. Everyday. Even when I was feeling crappy. It made me look up from the hole I was wallowing in to see those wonderful little flashes that fill up our days, but are often overlooked. And every single time I stopped to reflect on what I could be thankful for that day something always emerged. Sometimes it was a poem or a reflection, or even simply knowing that 'this too shall pass'. But there was always something. What I now see clearly is that gratitude is a practice. Gratitude is a choice. A choice we can make every day.

2. People and experiences beat stuff

When I look back on my 100 photos, I see that the vast majority are about people I love and experiences I had, rather than things. Eating a perfectly risen chocolate souffle, going on a date with my husband, bundling up the sweet-smelling twins after their bath, putting up our first family Christmas tree, getting back on the yoga mat, writing poetry in the morning sunlight, picking fresh vegetables, enjoying a moment of solitude.

In fact, there are only 4 photos out of 100 that feature possessions or purchases: a new bike, a new computer, a case of champagne and a beautiful dress. It may seem like a tired cliche but now I have hard photographic evidence that its not about the stuff, people!

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3. Death is a part of life

On Day 60 I was making pancakes for my three kids, a weekend tradition, when my father called with the news that my grandmother had passed away the night before. Maama, as I called her, was perhaps 105 years old, but no one really knows. She was the matriarch, a formidable magnet that drew our family together. Her passing was sad. I wished I could have seen her more recently. I wished my children could have had the chance to meet her. But she lived a life of greatness.

At first I thought, 'I can't do an #ilovelife post today. My grandmother has just died!' But then I realised that she was my #ilovelife moment. To love life is not necessarily to be happy all the time. It is to embrace all of life, including death. There are times when life will be sad and painful, but to love life is to live it. To sink into every moment deeply. To feel. All of it. Not to run away, or resist, or force happiness. It is to be where you are with acceptance. And when you do that, a background of peace encircles everything.

So I was sad that day, but I was ok with being sad. There was space around my sadness. I was grateful that I knew my grandmother, that she loved me and I loved her. I was grateful for all that she taught me. And living with an understanding that death is a part of life only makes me love life more.

4. If you love life, it loves you right back

I already knew this to be true. But this experience confirmed that what we focus on expands. It was like a magical self-fulfilling prophecy. As I paused to take in the nectar of life, like bees pollenating flowers, the sweetness of life multiplied. I felt like my brain had been rewired to see #ilovelife moments everywhere. And perhaps it had. Apparently the practice of gratitude has been found to change our gene expression, create new brain cells and new pathways and brain patterns.

One profound example of how when you love life it loves you right back came exactly half way through my journey. It was just after Christmas and the beginning of 2016. I wrote a poem about my love affair with solitude, and shared that I was feeling in need of some quiet time after and intense year. Almost immediately came the opportunity to join some wonderful friends in a beautiful house in Queenstown, New Zealand for a couple of days. And to top it off, this gift of beauty, nature, uninterrupted sleep and writing in solitude came perfectly wrapped in the most spectacular scarlet and auburn sunset I have ever seen.

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5. Everything is better when you share it

At first sharing photos about my life on social media was really scary. I was totally new to Instagram and am a bit of an introvert (see my previous post - emojionally awkward). But forcing myself to do it day after day made me realise that sharing brings connection. It is not about getting 'likes', but by opening myself up and being wiling to share ideas with others I have grown more comfortable being in, and speaking, my truth. And in return I have been shown so much love by so many people.

6. My life is friggin' awesome

Looking back on this #ilovelife photo essay fills me, to the point of bursting, with gratitude for the richness of my life. For this reason alone, I highly recommend doing something like this. It doesn't have to be through photography, or even using social media. Use whatever creative medium that you connect with. But I can tell you that to have a practice of daily gratitude, and your own personal documentary of joy to look back on whenever you need to is, well, pretty friggin' awesome.
I have David Cameron to thank for this post. No, really - I have.

This morning I awoke at 4.44am after a dream whereby I was serving David Cameron at a Westminster function. My attitude to him was servile, obsequious; he was, as I imagine him to be, loud, bombastic, patronising. Every fibre of my being in the dream hated having to smile and bow and scrape; but smile and bow and scrape I did, in survival instinct mode. And then I woke up.

My first thoughts, in the early morning hours, was that must have been the feeling that, prior to 1916, many Irish people felt towards their English lords and masters. That unsettled feeling of being treated like a second-class citizen - and in one's own land. The many slings and arrows of imperialist patronising remarks about the 'savage Irish'. People who are happy with their lot do not lead rebellions, and the bravery of those men and women who cleaved themselves to the ideals of the 1916 Proclamation is but something which this generation can only imagine. Or is it?

Based in London, I've been following with interest the various and varied opinions on the commemorations for 1916. Clearly, there's a section of society that sees it as something to celebrate unreservedly. And in a way, they are right. There's another section who sees all the failures: the side-lining of women, the subsequent subservience of the Free State to another imperialist power, the Church and its Holy Empire, the enslavement and abuse of women and children, the gombeen politics - the list could go on. And in a way, they are also right. Here's where I stand.

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I grew up in the Ireland of the late 70s/80s. Being of Russian/Ukrainian/American/Irish and God knows what else parentage, I've felt connected to Ireland, though not of her. My presiding memories of those days is darkness and gloom. There always felt there was something not quite humane, not quite 'Irish' about the stranglehold the Church had over every aspect of society. People's absolute, unerring, unwavering belief in the teachings of the Church both fascinated and frightened me simultaneously. In retrospect, and to a certain felt extent at the time, it was clear that Ireland had simply exchanged one imperial master for another - and one that was arguably more far-reaching and cruel. It's one thing to impose oppressive laws of the realm over people; it's far more insidious when oppressive laws are imposed on the human spirit.

Probably the biggest betrayal of the ideals of 1916 is the way that women have been treated in Ireland, like another second-class caste altogether. The sidelining of women in the life politic not long after the Civil War. The Magdalen Laundries. The fear that every Irish woman of a certain generation must have lived with of being incarcerated in one of these laundries, from any or all crimes ranging from being too pretty and a 'temptation' to unmarried pregnancies. Unequal pay and working rights up to the 1970s. The dominion that the State still holds over women's bodies via the, quite frankly, archaic laws on abortion.

But maybe the biggest lesson that is most obvious to me is that, over the last 100 years - where the State has failed, it has been a failure of our own making. We can claim, to a certain extent, post-colonial trauma; but ultimately, our failures have been our own. We voted in the corrupt politicians, election after election, which led to an unsustainable Tiger economy and its inevitable crash. There are many in Ireland who gave into the venality of that period, based on the shakiest of foundations, and over-invested in property, like characters out of a John B Keane play. There was fear, the type of fear that a post-colonial economy exudes, the grasping for affirmation that we were as good as the rest of the world and could stand as equals. We learned that we couldn't compete in that way or at that level.

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But the good news that I see for Ireland is that we don't have to. As someone who emigrated to the UK in the late 1990s, I hated coming back to Celtic Tiger Ireland where it seemed as if all people talked about was the latest property they'd invested in, their flash cars, the latest designer label they'd acquired. What has happened to many people since the crash is terrible, and they must be helped, and issues like poverty and homelessness must be addressed.

However, it seems to me that since the crash that the real riches of Irish society are returning. The creativity that has always been a hallmark. That ability to connect with each other on a more profound level. The ability to express ourselves through words, ideas that have not only shaped us, but the world. The spirit of rebellion in many of the protest groups that have sprung up: the water protests, the #WakingtheFeminists movement, Speaking of Imelda. What better way to celebrate rebellion than to engage with and support protest?

The biggest turning point for me however, and a key indicator of something quite unprecedented happening in Irish society was the 'Yes Equality' vote. I came home that weekend for my niece's communion. I was struck equally by the joyousness and change that came about not only through the LGBT community, but also through the recently departed emigrants who returned en masse, with all they had seen and learned abroad, wanting, by their presence, to be part of a more equal and pluralistic Ireland; and by the greatly reduced numbers at the Mass the next day where the Church we attended was only a fifth full. I remember the packed Masses of Ireland of 30 years ago. This was something quite new, the passing of the old, the embracing of a brave new world with brave new ideals.
Being Chancellor of the Exchequer must be like trying to steer a raft on a stormy sea. You do your sums. They all seem to add up nicely and then, suddenly, horror of horrors, you are knocked off course by changes in the figures which you can do little to prevent. For Mr Osborne last week it was a drop in growth forecasts from 2.4% to 2%, caused by a slowdown in China and no doubt lots of other things as well. Mr Osborne did not cause it but it is his role to act as financial street sweeper and to deal with the mess.

To do that he needed money and Treasury teams combed lists of government expenditure to see if there was anything with could be reduced or removed. When they did so their eyes lighted on Personal Independence Payments, a system for providing benefits to disabled people of working age, the cost of which seemed to be out of control. Estimates of expenditure on disability benefits over the period 2015-2019 had mushroomed from 56 billion in 2014 to 66 billion in 2016. Personal Independence Payments were given to compensate for the extra costs of disabled living, and yet a study by the DWP found that in 96% of cases examined the "likely ongoing extra costs of daily living were nil, low or minimal", largely because any appliances required were provided free from the NHS. That didn't mean that benefits were not important to recipients, of course, but merely that they did not meet the costs for which they had been designed.

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Anyway, the Treasury thought they saw a saving and, after discussion with the DWP, pencilled in 1.2 billion a year to be obtained by tightening the criteria for payments. Slightly surprisingly, bearing in mind that he had agreed the changes, Mr Duncan Smith resigned.

It is at this point that everyone seems to have lost their marbles. Baroness Altmann, the pensions minister, tried to link the resignation to the EU referendum when it clearly had nothing to do with it. The Government backed off the changes in panic and failed to identify an alternative saving. The Times said that Iain Duncan Smith was "shocked" by the language used by Mr Cameron when he discovered that the resignation had been disclosed to the press before he was told. Really? Are senior Cabinet ministers truly shocked when someone rips into them? Poor darlings, I had thought that they were made of sterner stuff. Then there is talk about fall-guys, maximum damage, animosity, resentment and vitriol; all the cliches of political fiction were rolled out. Oh well, there are column inches to fill I suppose but that doesn't mean that we should get dragged into this magimix of hysteria, so it's worth trying to work out what this is all about.

It is acknowledged in Mr Duncan Smith's resignation letter that the changes to Personal Independence Payment system are defensible in narrow terms. That is hardly a surprise as he had agreed them and anyway, whether the changes in criteria were the right ones, clearly something had gone wrong with a scheme that had moved so far from its target. No, his complaint is slightly different. He suggests that combining the changes (which will reduce amounts payable by some 1.2 billion per annum) with tax cuts is a betrayal of one nation conservatism. He also objects to the way it was done. Changes were forced through under pressure from the Treasury rather than being implemented through a well-designed process.

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Let's weigh up those arguments. The decision whether to reduce taxes or preserve benefits is not simply a matter of deciding who is to bear the cost of austerity. If a reduction in taxes will make people more confident about spending and therefore increase growth, it has economic effects which an increase in benefits would not. It is thus possible to justify increases in tax and reductions in benefits in the same budget on economic grounds. It would be rather less attractive, of course, if the only reason was political.

One can see why the second point was important from Iain Duncan Smith's point of view. He was anxious to deliver a package to encourage people into work, and to see elements of it being sliced away by the Treasury's anxiety for funds would be disheartening if it was done scientifically. It is doubly so if it is done in a rush to make the figures work, and the fact that the government has now backed off the changes does make you wonder how well designed they really were. From Mr Osborne's point of view, however, it looks different. He has a budget to balance and the lack of growth is making it difficult to achieve his deficit reduction targets. He sees a system that needs reform and thinks that there is money to be saved there. He would hardly be human if he did not want to bank that saving in the Government balance sheet. Indeed, if he didn't do so, unnecessary saving might have to be made somewhere else.

Still, it is a different point which may be the most damaging for Mr Osborne. He is often described as a highly political Chancellor and he clearly likes theatricals. No one who remembers the way he built up an expectation of cuts before the autumn statement to then announce that because of the nation's performance they were unnecessary, will have any doubt about that. His budgets always smell of party politics and are laced with jibes at his opponents, particularly, on this occasion, the Liberal Democrats. The trouble with that is that he gives the electorate a feeling that he is more interested in scoring party political points and playing to his own supporters than he is in getting the economy right. Therefore people will look at the tax cuts and see an attempt to obtain political advantage rather than a wish to increase spending. They will see him as a man whose desire to achieve targets is driven by an anxiety to make a political impact.

Actually, I don't suppose that George Osborne thinks like that at all, but his tendency to drama makes people suspicious of him and it is only the slightly avuncular presence of David Cameron, clearly a big tent man to the core, which prevents Osborne's manner becoming toxic. How would that play out if ever he becomes Prime Minister? Not at all well, you might think. If, by resigning, Mr Duncan Smith has spoiled the chances of Mr Osborne taking over from Mr Cameron, he has probably done his party a favour.
Like some of you reading this I left school at 16 years old with no clue about politics, even though it affects everything in my life - from the cost of transport and my chances of getting a mortgage, to how much I would be taxed when I start a job.

The school system, despite its many merits, failed me by not preparing me with the knowledge and skills I needed for life after school. Political education is only one of a range of things I missed out on in school. I was also not educated on other important things that affect my life, such as finances or healthy relationships.

What is really funny is that in school I learnt so much about things like Pythagoras theorem, photosynthesis, sedimentary rocks - you name it. These are things that have no relevance in my life today and aren't applicable to my daily life. Let us be serious and ask what knowing about the life cycle of rocks, or Pythagoras theorem mean to any of us today, unless you have a career in the scientific fields?

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Politics unlike many subjects we learn at school, has relevance to all of us today. It will affect us today, tomorrow and for the rest of our lives, whether we know about it or not. Yet, unless our parents can afford for us to be privately educated or unless we go to one of top state schools in the league table, then we are not going to be taught about politics at school.

Politics in England is meant to be taught in citizenship education. Yet despite citizenship education being added to the national curriculum in England in 2002, not much has changed in regards to young people leaving school without any political knowledge. Most don't know they need to be registered to vote, or how to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive as citizens. All of this just isn't being taught to young people in school.

I thought I was only one of a few people who believed politics should be taught in school (in a non-partisan way of course). However, it wasn't until I started my petition on Change.org last month calling on Nicky Morgan MP, (our Secretary of State for Education) to ensure that politics is taught in citizenship classes and that these classes are included in Ofsted inspections that I realised over 25,000 other people thought the same as me.

In less than 45 days from now we have the London Mayoral elections taking place on 5 May. Then not too long afterwards, millions of us will decide the UK's fate in the European Union on 23 June. Despite the importance of both these elections for young Londoners and young people across the UK, a lot of them will not feel confident to vote in these elections, as they feel they have no clue about politics and a lot of young people will not be registered to vote either.

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However, we can change this and start to build a generation of young people who feel more confident to take part in politics and drive the political agenda, and are registered to vote. Signing my petition is just the start of this change we all desire and desperately need to see.

Let's not allow another generation of school leavers to leave school without an understanding of politics and how they can shape the country we live in. No one should leave our 'compulsory' education system with none of the skills or knowledge they need to become an informed and responsible citizen.
In the wake of last week's horrific attacks in Brussels and yesterday's atrocity of the murder of more than 70 Christians celebrating Easter in Lahore it can become very easy to see religion as the cause of many, if not all, of the worlds evils.

Religion of course has its failings, the whole notion of many faiths is that they are built upon the imperfections of humanity. But it is all too easy to forget the good that millions upon millions of those with faith do each and every day around the globe.

At a time when the faith of many is at a low ebb, when countless non-adherents to religion are questioning its worth I would like to highlight, if I may, just one example of where religion is doing wonders. If you like the good news story you see at the end of news bulletins after weathering all of the bad.

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Right now in the Roman Catholic shrine of Lourdes, in the foothills of the French Pyrenees, around 5,000 pilgrims are gathering for the annual HCPT pilgrimage holiday for young people.

The HCPT charity and its associated international sister organisations, are this year celebrating their 60th anniversary of taking disabled and disadvantaged children for a week of prayer and just as importantly partying in the springtime mountain sun.

As well as, rightly, taking part in daily mass focussed at a level all can participate in young people take trips to the mountains, the seaside and the zoo. There seems to be a bottomless supply of ice cream and songs where vigorous actions and plastic musical instruments are mandatory.

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Well over a thousand children, many with the most severe disabilities, become the very important people at the centre of each small 'family' group based around a town or community.

Perhaps for just this one week of the year those children, children who for whatever reason may not have the best quality of life at home, become the focal point of thousands of helpers dedicated to having a beneficial impact in making their pilgrimage holiday a week they will remember for years to come.

Ask anyone with children how stressful raising children can be and you will quickly realise how much extra strain can be placed upon parents raising children with disabilities. One beauty of this wonderful charity is to provide respite for those parents who need a break too.
Seeing the pictures of Zaventem airport in Brussels in chaos was surreal because I vividly recall driving to the airport a few weeks ago, conversing in French with my Rwandan cab driver, with one eye on the armed guards thinking two things: would their presence be a deterrent or just make someone more determined to launch an attack?

The sight of armed guards patrolling with their guns coupled with their bulky tanks, parked outside embassies, key buildings, and other less obvious locations has become ubiquitous in Brussels. And when you see them you feel intimidated, but does their presence give people a false sense of security?

The audacity of this most recent attack is what shocks. Perhaps there was a moment of jubilation that the main architect of the Paris attacks, Salam Abdeslam, had finally been apprehended? Just when the Belgians breathed a sigh of relief as Abdeslam was caught as he 'planned his next Brussels attack' - was this the strike he had conceived? Or were these bombings reprisals - a knee jerk response to his arrest?

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When I heard that the second bomb occurred at Maelbeek metro station, Rue de la Loi, it made me shudder. The number of times I have cycled down that road I have lost count. Terrorism has been brought onto our doorstep; we are getting a taste of what it is like to live in perpetual fear.

Brussels is shutting down, the security alert has been raised to level 4, chaos and shock prevails - that's what the terrorists want.

There is no safe place it seems, and when I was watching the shaky footage taken on mobile phones I was trembling because I recognised every detail of the airport, it made me realise, 'I could so easily have been there.' So far 34 dead and rising numbers of casualties - what a waste of life? There will plausibly be more attacks, because that is the nature of this particular beast called terrorism. It's not about Syria or ISIS anymore, this is about faction terrorist cells whose main objective is to instigate as much mayhem through random bomb attacks in key cities like Paris, Brussels, London and beyond. This could potentially go on for years. It's a conflict that is not easily resolved, this is an enemy that cannot simply be arrested, incarcerated and stopped because there will always be a steady stream of disillusioned, disaffected young men ready to pick up a gun or detonate a bomb.

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When I was in Brussels I took a cab, there were two men in it, they were Belgian, spoke French and from Morocco. You meet a lot of them driving cabs around Brussels. They were friendly and vivacious. They kept on asking, 'Where are you from?' to which I replied, 'Je suis une extraterrestre, j'habite sur la lune' which translated means 'I am an alien, I live on the moon.' Although we all laughed my sense of dislocation resonated and they opened up saying how they didn't feel integrated in Belgian society. Geographical and economic ghettoization is rife consolidating a 'them and us' mentality, only exacerbated by the surge in radicalization.

The recent immigration crisis has also fuelled the mutual sense of suspicion and hostility between various groups and these tensions will only intensify. Because what happens after this? Brussels, London and Paris step up security, citizens feel under siege, but for how long can they sustain it? For some of these radicalized nationals it's not even about politics anymore - it's a form of sport, a way to feel important, to matter, to achieve instant fame and martyrdom - people will take risks to reach such dizzy heights of glory.

We also cannot just perceive this as a Brussels, Paris or London problem - we need to look at this attack in the context of what is going on globally.

Currently in Asia, this region is cocooned from the crises in Europe and the Middle East - but is it?

Today I met a woman called Leila, her mother is Scottish and her father is from Yemen. We got talking and I mentioned the bombings in Brussels and yet she seemed unmoved, I was a little taken aback until she told me how she had fled from Yemen 8 months ago and the killing just didn't stop. 'They kill and kill and kill,' she said raising her eyes up to the sky. Her once beautiful country was now ripped to shreds by bombs. In specific global regions this sort of attack is commonplace and no longer even news worthy.

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Brussels has had a little taste of random bomb attacks, as have both London and Paris, and it is truly awful - then there are others who have witnessed sights so terrible it has become normalised.

The world is in a mess - a view shared and corroborated by Leila.

Society has a lot to learn, but we must all try to make the world better even if it is in the smallest way imaginable - these efforts still count. So what can I do? Currently I am creating 10 scrolls about war, so far I have completed two, this third one that I am working on is intriguing. My young sons create imaginary war scenes with Lego figures accompanied with their random squiggles on the scroll - then juxtapose these innocuous Lego battle scenes with actual images of war. My question is - and it is a question all mothers of sons must ask - 'When do boys make the transition from making squiggles and playing with Lego figures and then use the same hands to fire bullets and chuck bombs.'

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Four details from War on a Scroll Part 3 created with my two sons aged 2 and 5-years-old (mixed media on 30-foot scroll of paper)
The unprecedented carnage that the terrorists behind the bombings in Brussels and other countries around the world, is beyond comprehension. The reaction to the attacks are unanimously one that is of shock and sadness. Unfortunately, there are some ignorant individuals who are blaming ordinary Muslims in a state of disillusion, about who the real perpetrators are.

Frustratingly, it is peaceful Muslims who are facing the wrath of retaliation from those who ignorantly associate the terrorist group with Islam. There is nothing 'Islamic' about daesh, they have destroyed mosques, killed mercilessly and the majority of victims that they have murdered have been Muslims themselves, a fact that many fail to realise.

These terrorists do in no way represent any of the tenets of Islam nor do they pattern their conduct following the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who taught peace and tolerance. They use religion, (which they clearly have no idea about) to hide behind their acts of evil, unaware that they are going completely against the very religion they claim to be part of.

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It is sad that hate filled bigots are playing right into the hands of the terrorists and giving them exactly what they want by causing disunity and divisions within their respective communities.

The attacks on Brussels, Paris, Afghanistan and Pakistan and many other countries across the globe show that these terrorists are nothing but inhumane cowards. Daesh is a group of evil doers who follow no religion and choose to pattern their actions following no one but the devil.

The way the UK government is responding to the Brussels Bombings is only fuelling the terrorists plans by making many Muslims, including those as young as primary children, to feel isolated and interrogated under the Prevent strategy. Prevent, a government led scheme has reportedly enabled primary school children to potentially 'spy' on one another and report any 'suspicious activity'.

There have been numerous cases where parents are left in disbelief at the fact that their children are being referred to the counter extremist programme. In a recent case a 4 year old Muslim child was referred due to a drawing he made of a cucumber which his teachers mistook for something else.

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If we look at how the UK government responded to the IRA terrorists in the 1970s you would see that both Labour and Conservatives made a clear decision to respond by ensuring that the terrorists were treated as criminals and not politically or religiously isolate a group. Why are Muslims not getting the same treatment? Why are Muslims being targeted and singled out for something that we have no connection with.

The ugly face of Islamophobia is again rearing its head and why is that? Could it be due to the way the mainstream media is reporting the events calling these terrorists Islamic? Could it be due to Donald Trump and his plague of prejudice that he chooses to spread? Or could it be due to the lack of understanding that what we really need to do to defeat terrorism is stay united, work together as one and create better interfaith understanding to clear misconceptions and ignorance.

The ugly face of Islamophobia is again rearing its head and why is that? Could it be due to the way the mainstream media is reporting the events calling these terrorists Islamic? Could it be due to Donald Trump and his plague of prejudice that he chooses to spread? Or could it be due to the lack of understanding that what we really need to do to defeat terrorism is stay united, work together as one and create better interfaith understanding to clear misconceptions and ignorance.

Arie Kruglanski, a professor of psychology at the University of Maryland who studies how people become terrorists said, "This is precisely what ISIS was aiming for -- to provoke communities to commit actions against Muslims,". Kruglanski further stated that, "Then ISIS will be able to say, 'I told you so. These are your enemies, and the enemies of Islam.'"

We as a community, as citizens who like to respect one another and create harmony need to realise this fact that if start the blame game we are only doing an injustice to ourselves and we are only giving these terrorists exactly what they want. We all have the ability to respect and value one another and stand up against hate of any kind.

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The recent twitter backlash shown against a man who confronted an innocent Muslim woman about the Brussels attacks showed that there are people who are trying to stay united and counteract any form of divisions. The man claimed that the Muslim women gave a 'mealy mouthed reply' without realising that he would later be inundated with responses from people of all faiths and backgrounds making fun of his tweet in support of the Muslim lady.
Image via Youtube/ JourneyTheMovie

A $6 million telemovie designed to discourage asylum seekers from coming to Australia has debuted in Afghanistan.

Titled Journey, the ninety-minute film follows the story of a group of Afghan asylum seekers on a mission to enter Australia by boat.

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Commissioned by The Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection as part of its anti-people smuggling campaign, the film intentionally displays the hardships faced by asylum seekers who travel to Australia by boat.

The production company behind the film is Sydney-based Put It Out There Pictures who on their website echo the purpose behind the film.

The film aimed to educate and inform audiences in source countries about the futility of investing in people smugglers, the perils of the trip, and the hard line policies that await them if they do reach Australian waters, it says.

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The Age reported that government tender documents revealed the Department of Immigration and Border protection paid Put It Out There Pictures $4.34 million to produce the movie. An additional $1.63 million was also paid to promote the film, which brought the total cost to $5.97 million.

A spokesperson from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection said market research in the key source and transit countries indicates that television soap operas and telemovies are an effective way to reach the target audience when delivering complex messages.

Independent market research in these countries has revealed misunderstandings and false rumours about Australias policy, and a perception that Australia remains a preferred destination country for those seeking to travel illegally, they said.

Filmed across three countries, the telemovie involved cast and crew from 13 countries and has also been screened in Pakistan, Iraq and Iran.
How does a designer get away with an all-white model cast, these days?

How does he do it twice?

Thats the central mystery of Demna Gvasalia, the Georgian wunderkind and toast of Paris Fashion Week, first through his work with the haute-streetwear collective Vetements on March 3, and again with his debut at the helm of Balenciaga three days later. The casts of both shows were entirely white.

Each show was breathlessly lauded: a new chapter in the life of Paris fashion, per Vogue; raw, uncertain, almost innocent cool factor, per WWD; the shape of things to come, per Business of Fashion.

And yet, to those who noticed it, the Vetements casting and its lack of diversity, was not just offensive but inexplicable. How is this possibly still a thing in 2016?

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That question seems especially pertinent when it comes to Vetements, which has risen meteorically thanks to its critical appreciation combined with highly visible celebrity fans like Kanye West and Rihanna. Its not that the label exists in a vacuum: it was comfortable enough associating itself with people of color when it showed in a Chinese restaurant last season. And more to the point, it trades on haute streetwear  hoodies, sneakers, and sweatpants by any other name  that are impossible to separate from their origins in hip-hop and urban culture.

But it seems unlikely it was an oversight. Two is a trend, and with the all-white Balenciaga redux, it was tough to explain away either as a fluke.

Not a single person of color at that 45-look Balenciaga show. I guess they don't exist in Russia/Eastern Europe?  bryanboy (@bryanboy) March 6, 2016

Whos to blame?

Maybe Lotta Volkova, Vetements and Balenciagas stylist and casting director, whose popular Instagram, as Business of Fashion has noted, includes almost no people of color. Casting directors extend surprising influence on runway shows, as director James Scully has explained, particularly ones dubbed the industrys coolest.

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But thats not the whole story, since Vetements is a [mostly anonymous] design collective, suggesting that multiple people approved, or at least did not disapprove, the all-white lineup for their fall show.

Avant-garde fashion aspires to art, that is, to be appreciated on its own terms. So a forward-thinking designer rubs up against the challenge of showing fashion  which has the unavoidable utilitarian destiny of being worn  while minimizing the presence of human personalities behind the clothes.

Avant-garde designers have addressed this in several ways. Martin Margiela famously literalized the paradox but putting his models in masks. Rei Kawakubo disfigured her models bodies in her lumps and bumps collection for CDG in 1997, rendering conventionally beautiful bodies unrecognizable. But the avant-garde strategist re-ignited the conversation over diverse fashion casting was is Miuccia Prada, another critical darling who popularized the clothes-hanger theory of model casting in the nineties. Her team sourced flocks of obscure, mostly Eastern European, girls to walk as exclusives each season, and serve as walking, breathing, hangers for some of the most memorable high-fashion looks of the 2000s.

That  ahem  model for casting unknowns was taken up with the zeal of the converted by Calvin Klein, Dior, and a previous iteration of Balenciaga under Nicolas Ghesquiere. And Pradas blithe whiteness went mostly unchecked during this time; it notoriously cast only white models in campaigns for twenty years until 2013, when it cast a single black one.

Its not even the de-humanizing clothes-hanger part of her theory thats most upsetting, either, but its girding assumption that the least distracting, most anonymous type of person to wear any article of clothing is white.

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Thats why diversity remains an afterthought in high fashion, exactly like it is in fine art or serious literature. White people have the luxury of letting [clothes/texts/works] speak for themselves, without the inescapable baggage of melanin. No matter how much more diverse most fashion shows get, the most cutting-edge labels can stay outliers, with the understanding that innovation sometimes crowds out diversity.

No label gets a pass on diversity, no matter how avant-garde they consider themselves to be, says Bethann Hardison, a retired black supermodel and advocate for diversity in fashion. First of all, no brand is intellectual. Theyre just not. These are just clothes, she says.

Avant-garde fashion has been deluded in its whiteness for a long time, even though some of the most influential artistic designers have been people of color themselves. Junya Watanabe and Undercover, by Japanese designer Jun Takahashi, both had all-white casts at the most recent Paris Fashion Week. Another boundary-pusher, Comme des Garcons, by Rei Kawakubo, also still habitually whitewashes its entire lineup.

Interestingly, this is now rare in mainstream high fashion, and almost nonexistent in mass-market fashion, which have to respect basic norms of public opinion and economics, respectively. Ashley Mears, a sociology professor who wrote Pricing Beauty: The Making of a Fashion Model, wrote that lack of diversity is much more of a problem at the luxury end of the spectrum. You never see people complaining about a catalogue  Wheres diversity? she told Business of Fashion.

And big-name high fashion designers, since diversity is widely acknowledged as a public virtue, at least try to keep up appearances. The squad phenomenon, the packs of diverse, glamorous amazons who make up #BalmainArmy or Chanels #FrontRowOnly, owe their existence, in part, to the democratizing effects of social media. On the flip side, when diversity can trend, it can also prompt a reaction. So Vetements, the ultimate cool-kid label du jour, is free to reject a #diverse #squad in favor of its own, lily-white parallel universe of non-professional models.

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Well, okay. So is this just the Way Things Are?

One obvious upshot, now, is that Vetements probably wont pursue a decade-long streak of whiteness like Prada did, since we, as a community, are better positioned to call them out.

All you can do is keep banging, says Hardison, advocating vocal criticism of designers at fault. And I think, after the Prada phenomenon, people are a bit once bitten, twice shy about Vetements and Balenciaga. After keeping quiet about Prada, for so long, people are worried that this new young designers influence will cascade, and erase our progress of the recent past.

The slow browning of the rest of the fashion world is a good thing, in terms of throwing blinding white outliers like Balenciaga into stark relief  to reverse the old Zora Neale Hurston chestnut.

One specific problem with Vetements is that a haute-streetwear line needs something to justify its price tag. Must one of those things be whiteness? Thats the elephant in the room distinguishing a hoodie in its natural environment from its $1500 iteration. If so, this reasoning is terrible, and frankly exhausting.

It also erodes Vetements claim to cast friends, who just happen to all be white (also known as the Lena Dunham/Girls defense). When the product they shill is so heavily influenced by urban streetwear of minorities, it comes across as unbearably arrogant to cast zero minorities to wear them.

Ironically, after the whitewashed Prada, CDG, and Balenciaga shows of years past, the whiteness of Vetements cast actually had the opposite effect: it distracted from, rather than served as a seamless backdrop for, their technically accomplished fashion. Which leaves me wondering, how cool is Vetements, really? Until they make changes to their lineup, Ill still suspect this to be a case of the emperors new hoodies.

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Since studying Spanish intermittently throughout my life, I've picked up enough basic phrases and words to get by in most Spanish-speaking countries. But when visiting Costa Rica this past winter in the heart of Central America, I suddenly found myself speechless. As I quickly learned, the Spanish they speak in Costa Rica is slightly different than that in other Spanish-speaking countries.

Rather than sharing how beautiful the nature in Costa Rica is, or how difficult it is to spot sloths in the wild, I'll let the local language speak for itself. This isn't about the window-sized McDonald's storefronts selling postres (desserts) in San Jose. This isn't about the largest active volcano crater in the world. It's not about the cost of traveling in Costa Rica (expensive), nor about the state of many roads throughout the country (moderate to poor). This is all about the words and expressions. The phrases that make Costa Rica special. And the words you really need to know when visiting...
"A wide-spread Holy War might well mean the bankruptcy of Europe." This did not appear in a contemporary account of the Islamist threat to European countries, as one might infer, but is found in the May 1913 issue of the North American Review, in an article by one Albert Edwards titled "The Menace of Pan-Islamism." The piece begins by describing an incident "in the Sudan," where "a native private ran amuck" and attacked his British colonial officer, who "might have killed him if had not been overpowered by some English soldiers and dragged to the guard-house." Edwards recounts that the younger officers "dismissed it as 'a touch of the sun.' But all agreed that a summary example must be made of the 'nigger' who had struck a white officer." Edwards asked "about the other Mohammedan regiments under English officers in the Sudan, in India, in Egypt, Algeria, and Tunisia" and declared that the possibility "that Europe's colonial troops may be disloyal" is "the menace of Pan-Islamism."

Rather immediately, one may think of the so-called green-on-blue attacks against NATO forces in Afghanistan in recent years. An article in the January 1879 issue of the New Englander, "Afghanistan and the English," pronounced the country as "almost another Switzerland enormously developed," whose inhabitants "have attracted some attention from their claim to be Beni Israel, descended from the captives carried away by Nebuchadnezzar." In this benighted land there is "the same want of administrative ability and the stringency of clannish ties, which everywhere pervades the nations professing Islamism, and prevents their progress in permanent civilization and good government." The article casually observes later on that "the mouth of the Euphrates and the ports on the Persian Gulf are probably to become objects of desire."

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Over to North Africa, Frank Leslie's Popular Monthly recorded in December 1881 that "France has again stirred up the Mohammedan world as it did by the conquest of Algiers in 1830," sparking "a 'holy war' against the 'infidel invaders.'" French colonists were at war with the Arabs, Frederic Daniel writes, adding that their "own writers acknowledged freely that they had a natural disposition to war, bloodshed, cruelty and rapine." Further, Daniel goes on to say, "Your true-blue Mussulman, who is eager to defend the divine character of his religion, is sorely puzzled to-day by the damning proof that it owed its progress and establishment almost exclusively to the sword, having brought war and hatred instead of peace and good-will in its wake." Of course, as we all know by now, European colonialism brought nothing but peace and goodwill. These centurions of Enlightenment were merely defending themselves against barbarous pirates who were "attacking the infidel shipping on the Mediterranean, and swooping down even on the coasts of Spain, France and Italy, to carry off their inhabitants and make slaves of them."
ALEPPO, SYRIA - MARCH 16: A Syrian kid holds a Syrian flag during a protest against Assad Regime at Old city of Alleppo in Syria on March 16, 2016. (Photo by Stringer/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)

Syrian peace talks in Geneva, which have yet to feature negotiations between opposing parties, are in recess. Violence is down, humanitarian assistance (though spotty) is moving, but the map to the promised land -- political transition -- remains a blank sheet. The two parties -- Russia and Iran -- who have applied military muscle in Syria have no interest in transitioning their useful Syrian client to anywhere. A leverage-free Washington implores them to change their minds for the sake of an anti-Islamic State (ISIS, ISIL, Daesh) Syrian united front. But Moscow and Tehran not only know what they want, but they work to get it. Washington, on a good day, gets table scraps.

Even in retrospect it is hard to blame President Barack Obama for hoping he could check the Syrian box with soaring rhetoric about people stepping aside and stern warnings about red lines not to be crossed. Like many of his countrymen he thought that the 2003 invasion of Iraq per se -- not the absence of an accompanying civil-military stabilization -- had produced disaster and was proof of the inability of Americans to do anything at all useful of a military nature in the Arab World. Yet a botched occupation and bloody insurgency in Iraq had a specific cause, one repeated in Libya in 2011. It is not as if military operations in the Middle East are predestined to fail.

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In under six months Russian President Vladimir Putin, presiding as he does over a great power whose GNP is roughly the size of Spain's, managed to do that which his American counterpart deemed impossible: without sliding down a slippery slope into a bottomless quagmire, he militarily altered the ground truth in Syria so as to achieve a political objective. He succeeded in securing a client whose collective punishment and mass eradication survival strategy has wrecked a country, created a humanitarian abomination, sent waves of humanity fleeing into neighboring countries and beyond to Western Europe, and made much of eastern Syria safe for the people who, in the past four months, have performed mass atrocities in Paris and Brussels.

Russia's stated objective is to save the Syrian state. Since Bashar al-Assad is seen by Moscow as personifying Syria as Putin does Russia, saving the Syrian state means saving Assad. Moscow has strengthened Assad's hand immeasurably just in time for negotiations supposed to produce "political transition" in Syria. No wonder Assad's negotiators treat the proceedings with contempt.

Moscow now presides over an incomplete but welcome "cessation of hostilities" in Syria. It presses its supremely confident client to dabble with an American-craved peace conference and, at long last, turns its military attention toward ISIS. These initiatives are connected. Putin hopes to have Washington accept Assad as its Syrian partner against ISIS. This would define victory. This would enable Putin to tell his domestic audience, in effect, 'We are back as a great power. We have defeated the American regime change and democratization agenda in Syria. We will defeat it in Ukraine as well. The man Obama told to step aside is now his partner. Indeed, in battling Daesh Assad is his senior partner.'

An administration that sees no efficacy in the projection of American military power in the Middle East (if anywhere) will not likely consider steps to protect civilians in western Syria if Russia and Assad resume city-busting bombing or eliminate ISIS in eastern Syria with a professional ground combat force coalition-of-the-willing, one top-heavy in regional and European units. What then is possible to achieve politically when one rejects acquiring leverage?

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Secretary of State John Kerry may still believe he can persuade Iran and Russia that Assad is pure poison for Syria and pure gold for ISIS. He should consider the possibility that they are already acutely aware of this fact. Kerry is not a stupid man. Surely by now he must know that they know. Tehran and Moscow both need Assad, each for different but compatible reasons. Neither the Iranian Supreme Leader nor the Russian President loses sleep over the price their joint client has exacted of his countrymen for opposing his brutally corrupt rule. Both see ISIS as their guy's ticket back to polite society.

When Kerry launched his latest Syrian peace initiative last October in the wake of Russia's military intervention, this writer warned that the objective might be process without end: a bridge of empty talk over Syria's troubled water to January 20, 2017, one enabling the administration to leave office without having protected a single Syrian in Syria from Assad's murder machine. Now it seems that process-without-end might be the best that can be expected from the Obama administration.

That which exists now, which did not exist in October 2015, is the imperfect, but still useful, cessation of hostilities. If it holds, people will live who otherwise would be slaughtered by Russian and regime air attacks; people will be fed who would otherwise starve under regime sieges; and people will be inoculated who would otherwise breed epidemics in besieged areas. Local governance could sprout in localities not hammered by barrel bombs. And who knows? Syrians with the means to do so and the knowledge that the opposition is negotiating in good faith may, at long last, move against the family that sees Syria as its private property.

Provided the Obama administration can resist shaking the hand of he who will ideally stand trial someday for war crimes and crimes against humanity, the bridge to January 2017 may - no guarantees here - produce an American commander-in-chief less willing to let Putin freely pose a growing threat to the peace. If the cessation of hostilities holds, it may give Barack Obama that which he truly seems to want: a semi-contained Syrian crisis he can hand off to somebody else as he leaves Washington.
Police in riot gear protect one of the memorials to the victims of the recent Brussels attacks, as right wing demonstrators protest near the Place de la Bourse in Brussels, Sunday, March, 27, 2016. In a sign of the tensions in the Belgian capital and the way security services are stretched across the country, Belgium's interior minister appealed to residents not to march Sunday in Brussels in solidarity with the victims."We understand fully the emotions," Interior Minister Jan Jambon told reporters. "We understand that everyone wants to express these feelings."(AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

I was appalled by the distasteful comments about "Brussels being a mess", which was totally the same foolish "Schadenfreude" we heard from some Europeans after 9/11 saying "the U.S. asked for it." This is bad manners, a bad comment at a bad time, but also dead wrong and obscures the complicated nature of the extremist muslim terrorism we are dealing with. The attacks on Brussels Airport and Metro was sadly another event in a terrible line of attacks on our democratic way of life. It is neither isolated nor the last one. This can happen anytime anywhere in Europe or elsewhere.

It was striking how Belgians reacted. With dignity and resilience. In defiance, the people went to work the next day, schools did not close down, shops opened and where they could, they operated the public transportation system. It says a lot about the country. Both the French and the Dutch language media was calm, measured, avoided sensationalism. This is important for keeping society together, in preventing it from falling into debilitating depression. As a sign of it's will to fight back, Belgium continues to take its share in the military efforts against ISIS.

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True enough, Belgium has made huge mistakes. It has been absorbed in pettyinfighting about regionalism, the at times laughable conflicts between the Flemish and theWalloon communities. This has not helped the pooling of resources. There has been a clear neglect of the Muslim community in Brussels. Competing police forces in Brussels, did not share information among themselves. Authorities failed to follow up on leads about the terrorists.

But then Belgium is a full-fledged and open democracy and no other city epitomizes this better than Brussels, where I lived with my family for more than ten years. On the whole it is indeed a place of tolerance and equality. It's openness is a huge benefit to its political, economic and cultural life in peace time. The same openness however is a challenge in times of war. For Belgians know they are now at war. A war between the forces of backwardness and destruction and the forces of openness and acceptance of the future.

Brussels is owned by everybody. And maybe nobody. It is the capital of Flanders, but there aren't too many Flemish people living in the city proper. The "Brusselaars" (the Brusselsians) nurture the spirit of live and let-live. Unfortunately, they all seem to live in their own little "miniversums", their own little worlds.

The presence of the European and Transatlantic institutions made Brussels more of a high-value target for terrorists. There are the thousands and thousands of Eurocrats and Natocrats living in the city. For most, the only "real" Belgians they have met are perhaps their landlords, the waiters in restaurants. Most have probably never been to a Moroccan tea-house or maybe not even to a real Belgian pub. Many of these people are now commenting from the sidelines. Instead they should start taking ownership of this great city, including its problems and help create a more cohesive Brussels.

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Radicals want the response to be xenophobic, brutal and undemocratic.They want Belgium to close down, build real and virtual walls, like some other countries. But Belgians, by their reactions made it very clear, that they will not back down. A Flemish war reporter was asked about the differences between the terrorist attacks he had seen in Syria and Baghdad and other places. His answer was that the authorities in Belgium responded swiftly and in a well-organized manner. The army, the police, the fire-brigades, the medical services all did their job, with a high level of professionalism. And we should add: remained in the framework of a democratic state. The average Belgian knows and understands that the "us versus them" rhetoric is destructive and damaging. It is not the solution.

Perhaps less visible to outsiders, the difficult soul-searching is already underway among the political and intellectual elites, and the man on the street as well. They need to face the failures of the past, and set as a priority to better integrate their Muslim populations. To appreciate those in the community who consider themselves Belgians first and Muslims second, young people, who see their future as worthy members of a democratic society.

A young boy of fifteen from the district of Molenbeek, simplistically seen as the "breeding ground for terrorism", was asked why some of his peers had joined the Jihad and he did not. His response was simple. "I am a Belgian...and I am not stupid". Belgians of all backgrounds must take his message to heart. For in this lies the solution, not just for Belgium, but for the rest of Europe, to this difficult and complex problem of migrants and integration and indeed terrorism.

Belgium is sending a message to the rest of Europe, It will stand and resist. Belgians will fight back. They will not lock down their homes, their institutions, their society. They will react with determination and toughness to an attack on their way of life, but never give up the freedoms they so much cherish.
A new documentary on the Gulen Movement, a mysterious Islamic group operating charter schools throughout the US, premieres today and runs through March 31st at the Cinema Village Theatre in NYC. A pre-release screening earlier this month with translation into Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese drew a diverse crowd of 980 and a standing ovation in L.A. Yet this national film, a bi-coastal sensation, was passed over by Texas' four largest film festivals and the state's media.

"It's very disappointing for me that the first public screening could not happen in Texas, my home state and the epicenter for this issue," said Mark Hall, the documentary's independent director and producer. Hall added,

This was a very difficult film to make because these people don't want to be on camera, they wouldn't be interviewed. The subject of charter schools is also very difficult because most people don't want to criticize the school 'reform' movement. Killing Ed is not necessarily a 'cinematic' film, but the purpose of an expose is to reveal something that the populace needs to be aware of.

A film about the worst-case scenario for privately-owned and operated schools funded by public tax dollars - one that exposes the underbelly of a charter school movement that is apparently funding a known Islamist group's interests, no less - hits a lot of nerves, which has people in power keeping their distance.

Among the facts uncovered in KILLING ED, the Gulen Movement, which is operated by followers of Turkish Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen, has been identified as a 'terrorist organization' by the Turkish government. The movement is under FBI investigation in four states and receives over $500 million in taxpayer-funded revenue each year to operate charter schools in the U.S., which now number more than 150 schools (with 12 new schools applied for) enrolling 60,000 students annually.

Granted, the intent of the film is not to take issue with all charters schools, but rather focuses on the worst-case scenario. But isn't examination of more than 100 charter schools run by a Turkish imam in the United States warranted as we explore educational reform? After all, the Gulen charter chain is the largest of its kind in America, employing approximately 5,000 Turkish employees brought over on H1-B visas - many of whom are un-certified, untrained teachers - to teach American children.

Gulen charters also use taxpayer dollars to give preferential support to affiliated businesses ranging from catering and construction to school furniture and curriculum development. The schools advertise heavily and sponsor events, creating income for media outlets, lobbyists, and consultants. Perhaps the reason why so few seem interested in reporting on this is that the Gulen Movement has sponsored hundreds of trips to Turkey for politicians and journalists, inciting a congressional investigation yet dampening the urgency to inform the public about a dangerous trend.

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"Thousands of people have been on these propaganda trips to Turkey," said Sharon Higgins, co-founder of Parents Across America and an expert on the Gulen charter schools.

This New York Times article is one of the few major news stories on the Gulen Movement over the past 5 years. In it, Stephanie Saul chronicles the activities concerning just one of the Turkish Gulen-affiliated contractors operating in Texas. In the film, you see the abuses from another contractor, Solidarity Contracting of Houston, which built several schools in the state, including the Harmony School of Political Science and Communication in Austin.

"Solidarity has gone out of business and no one knows what happened to the owner of the company, a Gulen follower named Levent Ulusal," said Hall.

Since viewing the film, I have my own ideas as to why my fellow Texans would ignore this, but quality isn't one of them. In its short life, the documentary has garnered acclaim from educated stakeholders and experts in the film industry. KILLING ED has been nominated for a Best Documentary jury prize at the upcoming Julien Dubuque International Film Festival.

Furthermore, in a letter from the director of acquisitions for the Tallgrass Film Festival, Shan Jabara hailed the film "a hit" at Tallgrass. In the following excerpt, Jabara urged the Dallas International Film Festival to screen it:

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KILLING ED enjoyed a preview screening at our last festival...and aroused great interest and concern for the subject of the Gulen Movement's charter schools and their rapid expansion. Most of our audience had no knowledge of this crusade, although there are a handful of local professors who had traveled to Turkey as guests of an organization that is connected to the Gulen Movement. The professors were very supportive of the organization as they were well-treated and there was no attempt at indoctrination. However, they seemed to have no idea that U.S. tax dollars were supporting the Movement's chartered schools and that they were poorly run, non-student centered and corrupt institutions opening up around the country. We have educators on our prescreening and programming committees that were so appreciative to have a chance to see this film before such a school was attempted in our city (the largest in the state of Kansas.)



As a film enthusiast, I can live with the fact that our state's film festivals failed to find room for a good documentary. But as a parent, a Texan, and a media advocate, I am astonished by the lack of support for this artful execution of a terrifying systemic problem. And my point of view does not stem from a lack of interest in Islam or education reform. I can get on board with a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. To name a few examples, I engage in Interfaith dialogue and send my kids to a Catholic school (and I'm not even Catholic).

But looking the other way as funds are diverted from our public education system, which is subject to locally-elected oversight and regulations to protect the public interest, in order to finance charter schools that further sub-par education and fund anti-democratic activities in the US and other nations? That is unconscionable.

The parallel of a society's reticence to confront an uncomfortable yet dangerous problem hit me while watching Spotlight, the Oscar-nominated film based on the true story of The Boston Globe investigation of priests molesting school children. That film exposed a different problem, but the same sentiment: If it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a village to abuse one.

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On digging deeper, I began to find out why. According to New York University Research Professor of Education Diane Ravitch, "The privatization movement is 'the perfect storm'."

In theory, the privatization of education makes sense. The problem is, it still has severe problems in application. As Dr. Ravitch explained,

In 1998 I testified on behalf of charter schools in New York. I become very discouraged because one of the conservative think tanks where I was on the board authorized charters in Ohio and all of them failed. Over time I began looking and saying to myself 'these things don't work'. The testing's not working its not making schools better. The kids are not getting a better education; they're getting a worse education. They're losing the arts, they're losing physical education, they're losing history. I began to realize that the things I believed in were wrong. When people say why did you change your mind it's a simple answer: three words: I was wrong.



"You see the politicians looking the other way not wanting to acknowledge the problems they know," said Hall. "You see the same thing with the foundations of billionaires, like Bill & Melinda Gates, that are spending hundreds of millions of dollars to push through a school policy agenda that most Americans may not want."

Keeping Texas Dumb

The Gulen movement informally operates schools internationally under the cover of various foundations and brand names. Here in Texas, Harmony Public Schools operates nearly 40 campuses around the state, often branded or positioned as science academies or STEM-related in major and secondary metropolitan areas.

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KILLING ED features several teachers who were willing to go on record concerning the drawbacks of the Harmony charter school chain, the largest chain of charter schools in the state.

"The Turkish administrators do most of the planning on what is going to be implemented in our schools," said Harmony educator Amy Warren. She added that she's not qualified to teach health and was encouraged to take the kids to recess.

Another Harmony teacher in Lubbock, who kept anonymous in the film to prevent reprisals from the Gulen Movement read from her diary, "I think at this point we have more un-certified teachers than certified."

In Houston, a covert camera shows the "special ed" student sitting outside of three different classes during his day.

The privatization movement postulates that the broken school system will benefit from competition. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who advocates for privatizing education using a voucher system, claims that parents aren't complaining so he's not worried.

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"We have over 500 campuses. We have 215 charters, so if you have a charter and you're successful, you can replicate," said Patrick. However, in a clip from KILLING ED, Patrick mentions Harmony among the models, even though its operations are clearly problematic.

As a parent, I can see this from both sides. No question that our public school system has its challenges. My own urban neighborhood's public school is 98 percent low-income and serves a predominantly Spanish-speaking community. After some of our neighborhood's most committed parents made a go of making the public school work, many gave up over frustrations with school administrators and other issues. The options these parents faced were to home school, choose a private or charter school or move. We opted to stay and selected a local private school.

The benefits we enjoy by supporting our local Catholic school include a warm and diverse community, an accountable principal, certified teachers, engaged parents, and a transparent system - essentially the same benefits I would expect from a well-performing public school. It is a shame that we have to pay to get the benefits that many suburban families get in their public schools, and that the lack of more viable options prevents more families from staying in town.

As a Texan, when it comes time to pay my property taxes each year, I don't complain because I know this contribution helps fund the public school system that should provide the quality of education that every child deserves. In the real world, words like "should" may sound idealistic, but supporting public education is an ideal worth pursuing if we want America to remain a superpower.

Privatization is a much larger issue than one shady school system, but the Gulen movement exemplifies the perils of diverting funds from public education to subsidize a system that serves special interests over those of our children.

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Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, speaks during a round table discussion at the University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Thursday, March 24, 2016. More than halfway through a nomination race that she entered as the clear favorite, Clinton finds herself deadlocked with Bernie Sanders among Democrats. Photographer: Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg via Getty Images

To fit into male-dominated spaces, women are told to fix a lot of things: stop using "sorry" and "just" in emails, avoid vocal fry and upspeak, and "watch your tone" at all times.

But more than anything else, women are told that it's a lack of confidence that's really holding us back. If only we could get over imposter syndrome, and internalize our successes instead of feeling like serially lucky frauds, we'd be unstoppable.

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Too bad it doesn't work like that. There is a very real external bias against women's competence, and nobody gets around it by being more confident. In fact, as we see through the experiences of Hillary Clinton and Melissa Harris-Perry, being more confident can result in harsh pushback when you're pursuing leadership positions within male-dominated environments. Because how dare you.

While we're so busy focusing on what women should and should not do, there's a big problem going undiagnosed: entitlement syndrome. The opposite of imposter syndrome, entitlement syndrome is the problem of overconfident, mediocre white men. After I break down competence bias, I'll get into what entitlement syndrome looks like, and what some concrete solutions might be.

What competence bias looks like

It's easy to see how imposter syndrome is a rational response to competence bias. Why would you think you're competent, if nobody else does?

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Competence bias starts early. Girls learn that they'll be held to higher standards physically, intellectually, and behaviorally than boys. While boys are raised to exaggerate their skills, take risks, fall down and pick themselves back up, girls are taught to think things through and second-guess, avoid risk and failure, and not raise their hand unless they're sure they have the right answer. Lastly, girls absorb from the media that their real value lay in their appearance, at the same time that boys absorb the message that girls are not to be trusted.

It's not simple to undo such deeply held, unconscious biases. Telling women to counteract the entirety of competence bias by being more confident is like telling one of Cinderella's stepsisters to squeeze her foot harder into the glass slipper. It's never going to work. The structure itself has to shift, which is going to take work by both women and men (I'll get into this more later).

However, self-confidence in the face of oppression is extremely disruptive to power structures. Audre Lorde called self-love "an act of political warfare", and Maya Angelou wrote about its power to upset and offend oppressors. When a woman is confident instead of self-doubting, it means she's no longer playing by the rules. It triggers intense pushback, as we'll see in the stories of Hillary Clinton and Melissa Harris-Perry.

Hillary Clinton's experience

Hillary Clinton's list of accomplishments puts her in the top echelons of high achieving women. Not only was she the first female partner at a major law firm, but she went on to serve as First Lady of Arkansas, First Lady of the United States, U.S. Senator from New York, and Secretary of State. She ran for president in 2008, and now, eight years later, she's doing it again.

According to Nate Silver's analysis, Hillary Clinton has earned consistently high approval ratings in each of her government positions. In 2013, as Secretary of State, her 69% approval rating made her the most popular politician in the country. But Silver also found that the moment Clinton hits the campaign trail for any kind of political office, her approval rating crashes. Why? Writer Sady Doyle sums it up like this:

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Campaigning is not succeeding. It's asking for success, and for power. To campaign is to publicly claim that you are better than the others (usually white men) who want the same job, and that a whole lot of people should work to place you in a more powerful position. In other words, campaigning is a transgressive act for women... Women who put themselves forward in the same assertive, confident style as men are routinely found pushy, "bitchy," or unlikable, and professionally penalized for that, too.

This is a paradox. The public has tremendous respect for Hillary Clinton as long as she has her head down and is working hard. But the moment she asks credit, acknowledgment, and a promotion, that admiration turns to vitriol. By confidently asking for what she wants, and stating why she deserves it, Clinton brings her competence into question.

Sound familiar? A lot of women have experienced sexism in their workplace performance reviews that closely parallels Clinton's experience. After all, what is a political campaign but a huge, public performance review? Reviews are a minefield for high-achieving women. Several studies have come out recently confirming that women displaying confident, assertive behavior at work are often labeled "abrasive", "bossy", "strident", "emotional" and "irrational" in their performance reviews. Fun fact: the word "abrasive" literally never appears in men's performance reviews. What does it mean to be called "abrasive"? Without a doubt, it means "stay in your lane." All of these forms of pushback work together to undercut a woman's perceived competence in the workplace.

Sexist attacks on Hillary Clinton's competence in the 2015-2016 primary season have been more subtle, but they're still there. This time around, we're seeing a huge focus on "trust", which is important to recognize as a very loaded word from a gender perspective. Let me clarify that it is a valid criticism to say "I don't trust Clinton because she has a record of [insert specific political action]." It's not a valid criticism to imply that she just "seems" untrustworthy, or lacks authenticity and "realness" as a person. This kind of criticism essentially calls her an imposter.

Clinton's opponent in the Democratic race, Bernie Sanders, is widely praised for being trustworthy and authentic. When arguments for Bernie Sanders being trustworthy are based on his congressional record, writings and speeches, that's not sexist. That's just a regular opinion, and an important part of the political process. But when we see a recurring emphasis on Bernie's sense of authenticity based the fact that he doesn't care about how he looks, prefers not to brush his hair, and makes faces during debates, that is sexist. People say it's just "Bernie being Bernie" and that he's "bucking the traditional image of a political candidate" but it's important to take a closer look. We find a strikingly similar example in Republican candidate Donald Trump -- famous for his comb-over and spray tan -- who is known for "showing real emotion" and being "not afraid to make himself look really ugly."

Both Sanders and Trump are praised for an image that no female candidate is currently allowed to cultivate. Show me a female candidate who can throw on an ill-fitting suit, not brush her hair, and scowl and wag her finger at her opponent during a debate. The media would have a field day, not a love-fest.

The attacks on Clinton's competence go beyond appearance. This widely-circulated meme is one example:

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While the subject matter is often silly, ranging from Harry Potter to Star Wars, Bernie's responses are crafted to demonstrate a thorough understanding of each issue. He just "gets it." Hillary's responses are instead designed to demonstrate enthusiastic cluelessness from a poser (imposter) spouting a totally superficial answer she thinks the crowd will like. It's pretty close to framing her as a bimbo.

Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump have the privilege of existing in a wide lane when it comes to appearance and behavior. Not only are they assumed to be competent, and automatically praised instead of punished for the act of asking for power -- but they're encouraged to be their passionately scowling, unfashionable selves, and people love them for it.

Hillary Clinton's lane is narrow. Not only is she a woman asking for power (an automatic transgression), but she is required to prove her competence over and over. She wins no authenticity or trustworthiness points for deviating from perfection in appearance or behavior. Sure, she can "be herself" -- but the cost is that her actions will be effectively run through a de-credibility translator. Tears become hysteria. Laughing is called cackling. Frowning is a sign of mood swings. If she tries to avoid showing any emotion to avoid this kind of judgment altogether, she's called a robot. It's a no-win situation.

Let's move on to MHP's story.

Melissa Harris-Perry's experience

Melissa Harris-Perry, host of the much-loved Melissa Harris-Perry Show on MSNBC, has recently ended a struggle for editorial control with the network by deciding to leave her show. In a publicly-published email to her staff, she said:

MSNBC would like me to appear for four inconsequential hours to read news that they deem relevant without returning to our team any of the editorial control and authority that makes MHP Show distinctive. I will not be used as a tool for their purposes. I am not a token, mammy, or little brown bobble head. While MSNBC may believe that I am worthless, I know better. I know who I am. I know why MHP Show is unique and valuable. I will not sell short myself or this show. I am not hungry for empty airtime. I care only about substantive, meaningful, and autonomous work. When we can do that, I will return -- not a moment earlier.

Melissa Harris-Perry has a PhD in political science and taught American voting and elections at some of the country's top universities including Princeton, the University of Chicago, and Wake Forest. An expert in her field, she consistently brought diverse voices to her show to talk about elections, local and national government, and social movements. The MHP Show was vastly more diverse than any other Sunday cable news show. Her guests were 45 percent white, compared to a 75-88 percent range from all the other major political weekend shows. Hers was also the only show that came anywhere near a 50-50 gender balance.

After years of fighting for editorial control, MHP reached her limit when MSNBC's white male leadership reportedly told her she could not discuss Beyonce's Formation video, even though it is politically relevant and the entire country was talking about it. They wanted her to stick to election politics instead. What happened was MHP spoke about Formation anyway, as footage of Jeb Bush and Chris Christie rallies in New Hampshire appeared in a box on the screen. MSNBC was not pleased.

If you watch MHP's commentary on Formation, the subtext is loud and clear. She says:

Beyonce is making an artistic statement that is boldly, unapologetically, black. She's giving us black bodies and a black politics that will not be silenced or ashamed, but instead commands space for the one thing the video tells us they are most definitely here to do - as Beyonce says in the song's refrain -'I slay'.

Melissa Harris-Perry is telling MSNBC that she too is bold, unapologetic, and came to slay. She will accept nothing less than full respect for her leadership and editorial vision -- and this vision is fully linked to her identity as a black woman. She then informed MSNBC that she's leaving.

The network responded to her publicly-shared email by saying "She's a brilliant, intelligent but challenging and unpredictable personality" and "It's highly unlikely she will continue" at MSNBC. Her email "is destructive to our relationship."

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MSNBC trying to slam MHP by using "challenging" and "unpredictable" as coded language both for "a confident woman who will not stay in her lane" and "a black person who doesn't care what white people think." Not only is MHP supposed to experience self-doubt as a woman, but MSNBC is shocked that she expresses such confidence as a minority in an overwhelmingly white-dominated industry, operating within a system of white supremacy. They view her confidence as an act of extreme audacity. Once again, we're seeing the kind of words that could easily appear in any successful woman's performance review.

MSNBC's statement also misleadingly makes it sound like there's still a relationship that MHP is recklessly damaging. Newsflash: you can't fire someone who already quit. The email can't possibly be "destructive to the relationship" because MHP already decided that there is no more relationship.

The network is treating MHP like she should have imposter syndrome, but she doesn't. She is completely aware of her contribution and self worth, and she made the decision to leave on her own terms. Unsurprisingly, media reporting echoed MSNBC's incredulity, saying that the network "severed ties with her" or "fired her" or even that she "went on strike." It's so hard for people to grasp that MHP simply took the power in this situation, and left.

The best part of this story is that not only did MHP choose freedom over silence by leaving MSNBC, but she also did it by refusing to sign a non-disparagement clause on her way out. The network assumed she would exchange her silence for cash in their exit negotiations, but she didn't. And then she simply carried on speaking truth:

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MSNBC tried to publicly punish MHP for her confidence, but she's refusing to be silently "disappeared" like former hosts. The network and the media can still try to spin her story however they want, but she won't be enduring it silently, and that will make things a lot harder for them. Not only do they have to field questions about her departure, but also the wider issue of their participation in the whitewashing of cable news.

MHP and HRC are fighting different battles, but both of their stories reveal the pushback that happens when persistent confidence flies in the face of competence bias.

Since it just wouldn't be fair to talk about half the population being taught to self-doubt, without talking about the other half being taught to self-aggrandize, let's move on to entitlement syndrome.

Entitlement syndrome

Entitlement syndrome is formally known as the Dunning-Kruger effect or illusory superiority. It disproportionately affects white men (whiteness and maleness being powerful intersecting privileges), and usually remains invisible and undiagnosed. Here's a quick definition:

Entitlement syndrome is when a person (usually a white man) overestimates his own skills, relative to others. He believes he deserves not only respect for his accomplishments (no matter how mediocre) but also success. He doesn't have to go above and beyond to qualify for excellence, and if he doesn't get the success he deserves, it's not his fault. He can use vocal fry, upspeak, and "sorry" and "just" because he expects to be judged solely on the content of his speech. He also believes he deserves the benefit of the doubt at all times, a partner who is much more attractive than him, and copious amounts of public space.

Both entitlement syndrome and imposter syndrome have their root in the unconscious competence bias that operates at every level. You can see it clearly when you look at how men and women view success and failure.

When women succeed, they tend to attribute their success to external factors (imposter syndrome). But when men succeed, they tend to attribute their successes to inner qualities like dedication and talent (entitlement syndrome). When men and women fail, the attributions get flipped. Women tend to blame their failures on internal shortcomings or a lack of effort (imposter syndrome), while men tend to blame circumstances outside their control (entitlement syndrome). So in a general sense, we have men internalizing mostly successes and women internalizing mostly failures, an internal thought process which is then strongly reinforced by outside forces.

Entitlement syndrome is like being coated in confidence (and competence!) teflon. You expect to succeed, and this is reinforced by external circumstances: those around you also expect you to succeed. Even if you're less qualified than other candidates, you believe in yourself. Your competence is rarely questioned by others, so why would you question it? When the competence of other candidates -- women, people of color -- is rigorously vetted, you also don't question it. Entitlement syndrome is why we so often see white male mediocrity promoted over more qualified candidates who are not white men.

Entitlement syndrome never makes the self-help circuit. Unlike imposter syndrome, nobody's making any money off pathologizing a destructive thought pattern that disproportionately affects privileged white men -- because for them, it's not a problem. It's great. The entitlement syndrome thought pattern is allowed to exist invisibly as the status quo to which other groups must conform in order to be successful. If a group is having trouble, the message is that they need to fix themselves. The system is fine, they just need to work harder to fit into it.

Except the system is not fine. It's broken. Now what?

Entitlement syndrome is a characteristic of a group that expects to fit easily into an environment that was designed especially for them. Imposter syndrome, on the other hand, is the cognitive dissonance that happens when a group does everything "right" to fit in and succeed, and yet can't escape a situation in which their competence is regularly under fire. The examples of Melissa Harris-Perry and Hillary Clinton show that biased attacks on competence only increase in intensity the more competence and confidence a woman demonstrates.

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The problem is systemic and environmental, so the solution also must also be systemic and environmental. As scholar Karen Ashcraft states, "social change is about fixing environments, not people." Here are a few examples of things we can do:

If your company is holding assertiveness trainings for women, ask what trainings will be held for men. If only the women in a workplace are deemed in need of special training, it sends a message that the men's skill set is the standard. The reality is that everyone can benefit from dexterity in communication. Through unconscious bias training, cultivate "privilege traitors" who do the work of debunking their own privilege and pointing out unconscious bias when they see it. Keep an eye out for backlash that happens when a woman asserts confidence in the workplace. If you are involved in a performance review process and a word like "abrasive" comes up, push back. Explain why that word is problematic, and stick to specific, performance-related examples. If you're in a meeting and you witness a woman being interrupted by a man, who then essentially repeats what the woman just said, expecting (and somehow getting) credit for it, cut in as soon as they take a breath. Redirect attention back to the woman by saying something like "Oh, that's like Lila was just saying about ____. Lila, tell us more about how ____ would work."
Protesters carry opposition flags and chant slogans during an anti-government protest in the rebel-held town of Dael, in Deraa Governorate, Syria March 25, 2016. REUTERS/Alaa Al-Faqir

News that the United States and Russia have set an August deadline for a new draft Syrian constitution suddenly makes the prospect of a new post conflict politics a reality.

August is also the deadline for an agreement on a political transition process between the regime and opposition figures participating in talks supervised by UN Special Envoy on Syria Staffan de Mistura. The talks are currently on a break, but are due to resume next month. Washington and Moscow are pressing negotiators on both sides to hold "direct talks" rather than continuing the indirect arrangement, and to move toward "a transitional governance structure."

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Now's the time for Syrian civil society to intensify its conversations about what it wants in a new constitution. Discussions have been under way for a while despite the overwhelming conflict, but human rights activists shouldn't let politicians or the superpowers shape the new constitution. It's vital that a new constitution reflects the demand for national and local democracy, the demand for a non-sectarian future.

What Syria's new constitution looks like should in large part be up to its civil society.

In 1988, I interviewed a prominent anti-apartheid activist and South African lawyer Albie Sachs for the Toronto Star.

He was then recovering from an assassination attempt a couple of months before, a car bomb attack in which he lost an arm and sight in one eye. He told me he was using his convalescence to work on "new guidelines for a constitution in post-apartheid South Africa," and that while any constitution would have to be properly worked out in full consultation with the people of South Africa if apartheid ever fell, he was proposing some draft ideas including on "the freedom of press and religion, an independent judiciary and a multiparty state," guaranteed by a bill of rights.

It seemed optimistic, even fanciful, at the time, with the apartheid regime firmly backed by the Reagan Administration, Prime Minister Thatcher's government and other powerful western allies. But within two years apartheid had fallen, and in 1994 Nelson Mandela appointed Sachs to the Constitutional Court of South Africa. The bill of rights, incorporated into the country's new constitution, was based on the guidelines Sachs had worked out during his recovery from the bomb.

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There's no one way to achieve a written constitution (the UK doesn't have one at all) but the more civil society input and public debate the greater the chances of its success.

Given the right process civil society figures, including human rights activists, can directly shape a new politics. Tunisian civil society, through the national dialogue quartet, heavily influenced its country's new constitution.

The Russian news agency TASS reported last week that "Representatives of the Syrian opposition movements, religious organizations and military units suggest establishing a group, which will offer a draft constitution to be further discussed by the nation." These groups aren't broad enough - religious, military and political voices need to be included but so do many others, including those trying to fight corruption at a local level, human rights group, humanitarian organizations, women's groups, Syrians who are currently displaced or refugees, and everyone else with a stake in the future of their country.

A new constitution in Syria won't solve the country's problems by itself, however brilliant its articles. But now is the time for all of Syria, and not just its politicians, to try to have a national conversation about what rights should be constitutionally protected.
I know, I know. You're not supposed to close a sentence with a preposition, as in "After". However, after reading Americanah (Random House, 2014) by the Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the grammatical "rule" seems like one more affectation that can get in the way of authenticity.

This book has been like that for me. It has sort of turned everything topsy-turvy. I'm speaking for myself and for many white people who have no idea of what being black in America is like, even though we may think we do. And having said that, it can feel like this is an ode to the awareness that gets so deepened precisely when it comes to race. And I say this because the book is so much bigger than any one topic.

I've been a fan of what I call "talking out loud", not only to hash things out and to come to new thoughts and feelings, but also to help us get in touch with the contradictions within. Part of the talking has to include listening, so that perhaps we have a chance to open and even change our minds. It there is nothing new coming towards us or from within us, we have little impetus to be curious. And if we know nobody who can alert us to things that are surprises for us, we can stay very closed, or locked in battles that become repetitive.

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I have the age of a very senior citizen, and yet the beauty of this book startled me, in the richness of the characters, of the plot twists, and of the dialogue. The blogging done by the book's protagonist, Ifemelu, is about race (but not only), written from Nigeria but first from America where Ifemelu writes with a glare about some of the glaring but habitual prejudices and presumptions of people who think themselves above prejudice. That to be and live in Nigeria is not to consider oneself as black, and certainly not to consider blackness, as difference is startling. And it is startling, because as the prominent white anti-racist Tim Wise has stated over and again, we as white people are often--too often--oblivious to racism, something inherent in our denial and avoidance.

The amazing aura and environment of Americanah comes through living thoroughly with its characters and benefitting from their observations, at times as strangers in a strange land, and at others as looking at some of the strange aspects of life in their midst. Ifemelu, early on in America, observes the ritual of tipping in restaurants, something that is anathema in many parts of the world. Written of her are the following words: "It was funny to her, only in retrospect. She had struggled to hide her bafflement at the boundaries of hospitality, and also at this business of tipping--paying an extra fifteen or twenty percent of your bill to the waitress--which was suspiciously like bribing, a forced and efficient bribing system." (p. 158)

That was only one of the many punches in the stomach I received while reading, and I say this because the language and the authenticity make the experience of the book also visceral, while at the same time not nagging. All the characters see flaws in themselves, or at least we are helped to see the contradictory aspects, the snobbery even of those who seem above judgment.

I picked up the book because it looked good; seeing a Nigerian experience of America seemed interesting. And I had read Half a Yellow Sun (Alfred A. Knopf, 2007) by the same author. That too was lyrical and sensual and romantic and provocative and informing, but it didn't prepare me for the jolt I had while immersed in so many pages of Americanah. The book deals with the immigration experience of Obinze, the male protagonist, in exquisitely painful and painfully elaborated ways, and again makes the reader care, identify, and not want to ever again think of all immigrants anywhere in the same way.

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This is a book I just finished, and which I miss. But it's not like missing the series "Downton Abbey" whose characters I was semi-addicted to and very attached. In Americanah, I feel I came to know these people, but most the author, though this may be my own invention. The longing is not only for the book to not end, but also for the chance to continue to know the author and her insights, and observations.

I did speak to a few people about the book, and they nodded, with a "Yeah, it was really good. It was a really good read". This is, I guess, where I draw the line, perhaps because my sensitivity makes the book so relevant to everything, that my alertness is on fire. It makes me long also for people who think and observe, not only the insanity--let's just say--of our political atmosphere at the moment--but at the process of observation and discourse in general.

We believe without observing, and we insist we are into individualism when most of us are burdened by a censorship internalized from our peers, from our religious authorities, by social media and more. It is hard to observe critically that which we are habituated to, and harder to get there if we invite no criticism for fear of a crippling shame or humiliation.

It may seem silly to put all this importance into one book, perhaps because it isn't the Bible Shakespeare. But I dare say who cares? Americanah has the plot lines and the audacity to talk and think out loud--all within the context of skilled and gorgeous prose--which we need as we need oxygen.
Teresa Giudice, 41, (L) and her husband Giuseppe "Joe" Giudice, 43, exit the Federal Court in Newark, New Jersey, March 4, 2014. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz (UNITED STATES - Tags: CRIME LAW ENTERTAINMENT)

After Joe Giudice, husband to Real Housewives of New Jersey reality star Teresa, turned himself in last week to federal authorities to begin his 41-month sentence for fraud, his four daughters went home to live with his wife and co-defendant. Teresa's home from prison because she was allowed to serve her sentence before him.

Giudice and her husband were allowed to stagger their sentences so that at least one parent was home with their daughters at all times. The instances where staggered sentences have been used reveals that they are an exercise of judicial discretion usually reserved for wealthy defendants. Often only fortunate people can keep their children out of a system where poverty and law seem to work together to separate children from incarcerated parents.

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Staggered sentences came into public view when Lea Fastow, an assistant treasurer at Enron was charged with crimes alongside her husband, Andrew, a top executive at the energy company. In exchange for assistance to the Enron Task Force, Andrew served a 10-year sentence, only after wife Lea completed her one-year stint and was home to raise their two sons.

In 2013, before the Giudices, Jesse Jackson, Jr. and his wife served staggered sentences for their dual role in misusing $750,000 of campaign money.

Keeping one parent out is probably the only way to keep a family intact throughout parental prison time, One reason why staggered sentences are so rare among an indigent populations is the cash bond system; anecdotally, I can see that the setup usually requires at least one parent to be out on bond already taking care of the children so they never enter foster care.

When both parents are defendants in criminal cases at the same time and both are sentenced to a term of incarceration simultaneously, they lose their rights over their children. A Child Welfare League of America 2005 case study determined that this happened in a whopping 100% of cases.

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While we know that approximately 2.3 million children have at least one parent in prison, no specific data exists on how many children have lost both parents to incarceration.

From my six plus years in prison, I know that the number of children who have both parents in prison is significant. They're not always co-defendants in the same crime; unfortunately many families' dysfunction envelops both parents in separate crimes and both are taken away. This almost always results in a child protection agency's becoming involved and placing the child in foster care.

While many of those foster care placements are with family - 65% of incarcerated mothers reported that their children were placed with grandparents or other relatives - a good number of them are placed with other families they don't know.

Then the Adoption and Safe Families Act (ASFA) of 1997 kicks in and sets a 15-month limit on the amount of time a child can remain in foster care; actions to terminate parental rights are supposed to commence after this time if the child's foster care placement is with someone other than family. Considering that the average prison sentence is three years, termination of parental rights is practically guaranteed if the two incarcerated people's children are not placed in "kinship foster care" - with family.

It doesn't make sense that 100% of families with both parents incarcerated would lose parental rights. Surely some of their extended families take care of their children, even we have no formal data that indicates such placements.

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The only explanation for this statistical completeness is that a child protection agenda is advanced more forcefully against prisoners than others and, when both parents are incarcerated, the targeting is doubly strong. More than twenty states permit parental rights to be terminated absent proof of parental wrongdoing that places the child in danger. These states have adopted an "impliedly bad parent" approach. If one parent in prison is impliedly bad, then two behind bars can be explicitly disastrous, at least according to the patterns in terminating their rights.

The approach actually runs counter to the canon of family and child law. Termination should happen only when it is the last resort to protect the child.

By virtue of their separation from their children, incarcerated parents cannot pose immediate risk to their children so there is an argument that prisoners' parental rights shouldn't ever be severed as the corrections system goes about its task of rehabilitating them for their return to society. Conviction data shows that parents who are justice-involved are no more likely to neglect or abuse their children than those people without criminal convictions.

Of course, the unfortunate truth is that it is better for some children not to be reunited with their incarcerated parent for safety and other reasons.

But that can't be the case in for all prisoners; their children have rights to parental relationships. In fact, it may endanger the child's emotional well-being to terminate their parents' rights to see and raise them.

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While the effects of termination on children is surprisingly understudied, we know that approximately 50% of school age children separated from a parent who is incarcerated suffer academically, develop aggression and relate to peers in less skillfully. If that is how they react to temporary separation, imagine what will be revealed when a researcher examines the effects of permanent parental exile.
Dear Gay White Brothers,

What's the difference between a gay white man and a white man?

No, this is not the start of a joke recently told by Donald Trump. It's a question I've been wrestling with lately as we continue to make gains in legal equality and social acceptance within the United States.

What will it be like as the "gay" part of "gay white men" gets waived into a new state of normalcy? What will it be like to just be white men -- not gay white men?

Of course, each of us has our own unique lived experience and journey, and our gay identity wouldn't disappear, nor would our challenges. To borrow a phrase from Michelle Alexander: like racism, heterosexism is highly adaptable. Gay kids continue to be bullied at school and kicked out of their homes. Gay seniors get forced back into the closet at nursing homes. Gay white men remain the largest group of those living with HIV in the U.S, even as black men account for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses.

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We are fighting back against so-called "religious freedom restoration acts," we are lobbying Congress to pass the Equality Act, and many of us continue to face economic hardship and discrimination when seeking employment or housing. And yet, it feels like we're at a formative moment in the identity of gay white men in America.

My fiance and I (he's white too) have set our wedding date in the fall. Once that ring is placed onto my left hand, I'm officially welcomed into an elite class. Married. White. Man. I stand with my husband at U.S. customs and we collectively have nothing to declare. I slide the mortgage papers along the table for my husband to sign as we buy our first home together. I tell the hotel clerk that my husband will be arriving after me and she asks for his name without pause.

But we can't ignore the fact that alongside the headlines featuring gains in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) equality are those accounting racial injustice and the widening gap between rich and poor.

Our community has learned so much, and there's a common struggle we share with those marching in the streets for dignity and justice. As we continue to fight new and old battles -- all the while becoming more equal under the law and in our lived experience with our white straight brothers -- we are faced with a new choice: What do we do with the lessons we've learned, the resources we've built, the privilege we've been given, and the access we have to power?

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In September, President Obama reminded us of the duty we have to be champions for justice:

"Harvey Milk once said, 'If a gay person makes it, the doors are open to everyone.' But to those of us who've made it through those doors, we've got a unique obligation to reach back and make sure other people can make it through those doors, too. We have a responsibility to stand up to bigotry -- not just against us, but against anybody, anywhere. We have a responsibility to stand up for freedom -- not just our own freedom, but for everybody's freedom... because we remember what silence felt like when hatred was directed at us, and we've got to be champions on behalf of justice for everybody, not just our own."

I think of the skills of those who learned to lobby and write op-eds and talk with their friends and neighbors about equality for LGBTQ people. I think of the millions of dollars we collectively raised and poured into winning the freedom to marry. I think of the mayors and governors and elected leaders around the country with whom we've built relationships. I think of the courage and strength it took to say the words "I'm gay" for the first time.

What if we took all of that and threw it at our world's greatest challenges? Standing shoulder to shoulder with the Black Lives Matter organizers as we collectively demand justice and systemic reform. Lobbying our elected leaders to protect transgender people from discrimination and violence. Marching with the DREAMers as we fight for immigration reform. All while acknowledging our allies and the debt of gratitude we owe to Julian Bond and Dolores Huerta, Jeanne Manford and Zach Wahls, the St. Vincent's nurses and Unitarian ministers, and all those who made our struggle their own.

There was a time in your life when no one stood up for you. We now have a choice to make about what is expected of us. Ten years from now, a gay white kid will come out and may never know any form of discrimination based on his sexual orientation. As he forms his identity, will he expect himself to have a responsibility to stand up to bigotry and fight for freedom for all?

I look to leaders like Freedom to Marry founder Evan Wolfson, who recently became a visiting professor at Georgetown Law to share the lessons learned from the successful marriage campaign with other organizations, causes and countries. He's using what he learned after decades of fighting for marriage equality to help advance global human rights and address domestic issues like immigration, voting rights and education reform.

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I am inspired by Charlie Rounds and his husband Mark Hiemenz, longtime marriage advocates in Minneapolis, who last year answered President Obama's challenge around My Brother's Keeper and began donating and raising funds for local groups expanding opportunities for young men and boys of color. I applaud Jon Stryker and the Arcus Foundation, which recently announced a multi-year, $20 million commitment with NoVo Foundation to advance transgender equality in the U.S. and globally. I cheer on my friend and former colleague, Rep. Jon Hoadley, who cut his teeth in LGBTQ politics and now fights for issues like gun safety, education reform and government accountability as a member of the Michigan State House. They and so many others know that the fight for equality and justice didn't end with last summer's marriage victory.

So, what's the difference between a gay white man and a white man?
The unexpected death of keyboard legend Keith Emerson (a reported suicide) left many in shock. But two people in particular have had many reasons to take the loss particularly hard.

Jordan Rudess (right, in above photo) a keyboard legend in his own right (both with prog metal giants, Dream Theater and as a solo artist and technology wizard), wasn't just a huge fan of Emerson; the two had also become friends in recent years. Then there's Keith Wechsler (left, in above photo), who for years was Emerson's keyboard tech, producer, engineer and is currently Rudess's keyboard tech on the current Dream Theater world tour in support of their new album, "The Astonishing."

I spoke to both of them last week as they sat in backstage in Belgium, just moments after the band had wrapped up a show; two men still coping with stark and sudden news that's left a void in both their lives.

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Rudess shared, "Losing him is dramatic, traumatic, and everything in between. It's taken a lot out of me emotionally. I mean, this is my number one musical hero who changed the course of my life. Represented everything to me. Any time I lay my hands on the keyboard, I think of him. I mean, so much of what i do is because of him. This gentle soul. He was and will always be just so important to my existence. To have been even acknowledged by him is beyond my comprehension."

Wechsler has his own unique relationship with Emerson. "I first saw Emerson, Lake & Palmer in 1972, in San Francisco, and Keith just blew my mind. To work with him for many years was like a dream come true. He was so mild mannered off stage and then onstage he just turned into this wildly expressive artist. He had an amazing sense of humor, very unassuming and subtle, but then he was all about pushing boundaries. Challenging things. That's what he taught me. First, you learn the rules. Then you break them. I will always do that because of him."
As I gaze out of the plane window, the pitch black slowly begins to give way to the dawning of a new day. The stunning sight of red and orange appearing on the horizon is a familiar sight to travellers of trans-atlantic flights heading back towards Europe. For me, it's an image permanently seared into my mind because I witnessed it countless times during my teenage years. So, being that young, I wasn't the average businessman on his way home from a meeting across the pond. It was, in fact, due to having to make many trips from London, where my family and I lived back then, to Chicago for a series of operations I had to do to reconstruct my nose owing to the various conditions I was born with.

Those days, as I mentioned, were years ago - back in the early 00s. Right now though, I'm flying back from a charity event from Chicago- a foundation I've been involved with for the last couple of years, which has been a wake-up call. This particular foundation is dedicated to raising money for the Craniofacial Centre to provide care for kids born with genetic abnormalities, which range from cleft palate to other disorders that affect the cranium and facial bones. I have always held the belief that everyone, from all walks of life, should try to make a difference, no matter how big or small. Given that I was born with several of the issues mentioned, being involved is a small way of helping those kids who face similar obstacles to the ones I did. Admittedly, it took some time for me set in motion my part of giving something back after all the care I'd received from countless surgeons and nurses throughout my path of multiple surgeries. But, as the saying goes, better late than never.

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This was my third consecutive year attending the foundation's annual event. Now that I'm writing this on the flight home, I hope that my small contribution helped to bring in much-needed funds to the Craniofacial Centre. However, there was a different and unexpected highlight to my visit. Every time I visit Chicago, I make a point of going to see the surgeon who reconstructed my nose all those years ago. I'll refrain from naming him because, despite his undoubted position as one of the best nasal reconstructive surgeons in the world, his modest character is evident to me and all his other current and former patients in that he never seeks publicity like so many surgeons do today. So, as always, I passed by his office. While I was waiting, a lady walked in with a plaster over her nose, which brought back many memories of what I looked like when I was in between surgeries, as I too had to make do with one of those.

The lady didn't appear to be in the best of moods as the surgeon was running late (a habit my family and I can remember all too well). When he did finally appear. we exchanged pleasantries and he introduced me to this lady saying, 'Christian had his nose reconstructed just like you're doing now'. It was a brief introduction and, after having a good chat with my surgeon and reminiscing about old times, I headed for the exit and said a brief good-bye to the lady, who was still in the waiting room.

On the day I checked out of the hotel, I had a half hour to spare, so headed to the bar for a quick bite before heading to the airport. I walked in and there was the lady again. We both commented on what the chances were that we'd both been staying in the same hotel. So I joined her at the bar and we got talking. Alison was her name and she explained how she ended up having to have her nose reconstructed. Her circumstances were different to mine in many ways, but the biggest contrast was that this was happening to her later in life.

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Alison was very open in describing how her procedures had been tough so far - she's around halfway through the reconstruction process. Some days were harder than others, she said. It was a familiar statement to me in that I endured those frustrating times too, especially going through it during the adolescent years.

That said, I emphasised to her the importance of remaining positive and leaning on your friends and family when you need them. I told her how, when looking back on those times, that it was worth all the pain and that she is aided by the fact that, like me, she is in the hands of the best, so the end result will be worth it.

Before we said our goodbyes, Alison said something that touched me. She said I had inspired her, which was very humbling to hear.

I hope our brief encounter made Alison feel better. While we only spoke for a while, I had no doubt that she possesses the strength and determination needed. But we all need a helping hand sometimes and I like to think our brief conversation was what she needed that day.
Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders speaks during a rally at Safeco Field in Seattle on March 25, 2016. / AFP / Jason Redmond (Photo credit should read JASON REDMOND/AFP/Getty Images)

Sen. Bernie Sanders was finally able to significantly cut into Sec. Hillary Clinton's pledged delegate lead in this past week's "Western Tuesday and Saturday" contests. Sanders' campaign manager, Jeff Weaver, has repeatedly said that after March 15th Bernie would chip away at Hillary's lead until ultimately surpassing her on June 7th when delegate-behemoth California finally gets to vote. However unlikely this scenario seems to some in corporate media, the only question democratic primary voters on the fence about Sen. Sanders should be asking is: "What do I have to lose?"

Bernie Sanders' stances on nearly every major issue are enormously popular among Americans of all affiliations. Large majorities of voters, especially democrats, side with Bernie on issues like raising the minimum wage to $15/hour, requiring employers to provide paid family and sick leave, opposing the Wall Street bailout, decriminalizing marijuana, raising taxes on wealthy and corporations, opposing the U.S. policy of interventionism and regime-change, and opposing the use of U.S. ground troops to defeat ISIS, to name a few. These are progressive values that appeal widely across demographics, but, unfortunately, not to Hillary Clinton. Her proposals on many issues amount to less-than-half measures and premature compromises which will translate to very little, if any, substantive change in the status quo. She is a hawkish neoconservative on foreign policy, a corporatist neoliberal on economic policy and a moderate centrist on domestic and social policy; not exactly the standard bearer for most democratic voters. (If you're curious which candidate best represents your views on the issues, take this quiz at isidewith.com)

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Many in the democratic base prefer Bernie's ideas and stances on the issues to Hillary's, but choose to vote for her because they think she has a better shot at defeating the eventual republican nominee. This is false. For months, polling of hypothetical general election match ups between the democratic and republican candidates consistently show Bernie Sanders beating Trump, Cruz and Kasich by wider margins than Hillary Clinton. According to HuffPost Pollster's aggregated favorability polling, Bernie has a +8.7 rating compared to Hillary's -13 rating. In a recent Bloomberg Politics poll, Sanders pulled ahead of Clinton nationally among democrats, 49-48 percent. The same poll showed that 64 percent think that Bernie Sanders is the more honest and trustworthy candidate, whereas only 25 percent feel that way about Clinton. With ongoing scandals, including foreign government arms deals for Clinton Foundation donations and an FBI criminal investigation, it's easy to see why that distrust exists.

The other big reason given by democrats for choosing Clinton over Sanders is they think she has better foreign policy experience. Serving as Secretary of State for four years certainly gives her an advantage in that category, that is, until you look at her judgement during that time. In 2009, she legitimized the coup which ousted democratically elected Honduran President Manuel Zelaya. That country is now one of the most violent in the world. In 2011, she played a central role in the ousting of Col. Muammar Gaddafi, later laughing about it saying, "We came, we saw, he died!" Libya is now a stronghold for ISIS and other terrorist groups. In 2012, she pushed hard for the Obama administration to arm the Syrian rebels, another blatant attempt at regime-change. Now she is calling for a no-fly zone in Syria and the possibility of U.S. ground troops. Apart from further entrenching our armed forces in yet another Middle Eastern quagmire, her proposals have a very real chance at sparking a war with Russia. Oh, and did I mention she voted for the Iraq war? That too.

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If you are a democrat who does not want to send our brave men and women in uniform to endless interventionist wars of regime-change, vote for Bernie Sanders. If you are a democrat who thinks that foreign policy judgement is more important than foreign policy experience, vote for Bernie Sanders. If you are a democrat who believes the most important issue is beating the republican candidate and regaining democratic majorities in the U.S. House and Senate, vote for Bernie Sanders. He is the only candidate at the helm of a political revolution bringing in millions of new voters who have previously given up on the political process. Bernie has the overwhelming support of Independents, millennials and the progressive base, and one third of his supporters have reported they will not vote for Hillary if she becomes the nominee, even to prevent a Trump presidency.

You can choose to look at those supporters as petulant children if you want, although they would probably want to know why you are so eager to settle for such an unrepresentative lesser-evil when there is a greater-good staring you in the face. Clinton has adopted many of Bernie's stances just since this past Fall, further suggesting that even she knows whose policies the people prefer. If you applaud her campaign's evolution leftward out of political expedience, then imagine how devastated you will feel when she pivots back to the center-right for the general election.

Voting for Bernie Sanders in the democratic primaries is a win-win for democrats. He has a better chance of beating the eventual republican nominee, he has better judgement in matters of foreign policy, and he better represents the American public's views on a host of issues important to democrats. If he ends up losing the nomination, you've still got Hillary to fall back on. So tell me, what do you have to lose?
While Colombia, the U.S.'s staunchest ally in the Hemisphere, is held out as some beacon of democracy in Latin America, the facts on the ground tell a very different story. Of course, you will rarely hear those facts, or about Colombia at all, given the general laziness and slavishness of our main stream media, so here they are.

Arelis Maria Urinan Guariyu speaks at WOLA event in D.C. about the threats to Colombia's Indigenous communities

Last year, according to the Resource Center for Conflict Analysis (CERAC), there was a huge spike in the murder of social leaders, political party activists and union members compared to the year before. Thus, such murders jumped 35% from 78 in 2014 to 105 in 2015. Specifically, the rate of union murders more than doubled from 2 to 7; the rate of political leaders and activists killed increased 66% from 15 to 25; and the murder of public officials, teachers and journalists jumped 31% from 29 to 38. In terms of the murder of political activists/leaders, moreover, most were from opposition, left-wing parties. Indeed, 6 leftist political leaders have been killed already in 2016.

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And, of particular note, CERAC explains that the aforementioned murders are NOT the product of the armed conflict in Colombia between the Colombian government and the FARC guerillas. Indeed, CERAC explains that the cease fire which the FARC has been engaged in as part of the peace process has not contributed to a decline in political violence. This is because most of this political violence is being carried out by right-wing paramilitary groups aligned with the Colombian state, though both the U.S. and Colombian governments go to great pains to deny the continued existence of such paramilitaries.

As CERAC further explains, those who have been disproportionately victimized by political violence (which includes both murders and threats) have from the LGBTI community and from the "traditionally victimized" groups of Afro-descendants and indigenous peoples.

CERAC relates that "in 2015 deaths of indigenous leaders far exceeded those of other vulnerable populations who defend human rights in the country: they correspond to 20% of the total." This, despite the fact that indigenous peoples, numbering around 1.4 million, only make up 3.3% of the total Colombian population.

Truthfully, these figures do not even begin to capture the devastation which the indigenous peoples of Colombia are suffering. As Arelis Maria Urinan Guariyu, theCouncilor for Women of the National Indigenous Organization of Colombia (ONIC), and a member of the Wayuu tribe in Colombia's La Guajira Peninsula, explained to a group of us last week in Washington, D.C., 34 of the 102 indigenous tribes in Colombia are on the verge of extinction. According to the United Nations, this in fact may be an underestimate, with possibly over 40 tribes at risk of total annihilation. In total, over 62% of all indigenous peoples in Colombia are at risk of extinction.

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And, Arelis, CERAC and the UN agree on one thing: the main cause of the violence against and existential threat to Colombia's indigenous population, and to the Afro-Colombian community as well, is from mining operations in that country. Indeed, according to a report by ABColombia, a UK-based NGO coalition, "[s]ome 80% of human rights and international humanitarian law violations in the last 10 years have been carried out in mining and energy regions in Colombia . . . ."

As Colombia Reports has explained quite well:

Mining operations in Colombia have a notorious history when it comes to violence, displacement, and toxic exposure. In what became an internationally infamous case, the Cerrejon mine owned by Exxon-Mobile destroyed the entire [Afro-Colombian] village of Tabaco in 2001, and displaced all of its residents with the help of armed security forces . . . .

The Cerrejon mine, named for "a nearby mountain held sacred by the indigenous Wayuu people, who comprise 44% of La Guajira's population," is now owned by a joint venture of Glencore, Anglo American and BHP Billiton. As Arelis explained to us, this mine continues to pose a threat to the existence of the Wayuu people, as well as to Afro-Colombians living in La Guajira. This threat is in the form of both forced displacements as well as the ravaging of La Guajira's natural resources.

As just one example of the latter, the Cerrejon mine utilizes 17 million liters of water per day, while each resident of the dry and arid La Guajira has access to less than one liter of water per day. The impact upon the Wayuu peoples is devastating, according to the Inter-American Human Rights Commission. Thus, as reported recently by Telesur,

The Inter-American Human Rights Commission (IAHRC) is demanding the Colombian state adopt measures to protect the children and teenagers of the Wayuu community after activists and indigenous leaders said that about 4,770 of them died over the eight past years as a result of malnutrition and lack of clean drinking water. The human rights body, part of the Organization of the American States (OAS), said the Wayu people -- "powerful humans" in the Arahuaca language -- were suffering high levels of child mortality, putting in danger the survival of the group as a whole. . . . The Wayu community, which represents almost half of the local population living in La Guajira, lost valuable hectares of land, as well as the access to the Rancheria River, as a result of mining exploitation that expanded in the area as result of it being home to the world's largest coal reserve, called El Cerrejon.

This phenomenon is being played out throughout Colombia, particularly in the rich and coveted lands of the Pacific and northwest Caribbean coasts to which the indigenous peoples and Afro-Colombians hold title. And, those who actively resist such mining interests are at risk of assassination by paramilitary groups which work hand-in-glove with a number of mining companies and which, in some cases, even own mining operations themselves. The result is that the indigenous peoples and Afro-Colombians are bearing the disproportionate brunt of the increasing political violence in Colombia.
The terrorist attack on the Brussels airport has once again raised question about airport and airline security. In spite of the many attacks on airports and aircraft that have occurred, the airline industry remains stuck in a largely reactive modus operandi. Now that the Brussels attack has occurred, that airport will, at least for a short time, become a fortress. But what about six months from now? What can be done to change the way airlines and airports address risk on an ongoing basis?

The world can learn a lot from Israel. No country in the world faces more terrorist threats than Israel, and no airport in the world faces more such threats than Tel Aviv's Ben Gurion airport. The Israelis have of course been the gold standard for establishing and maintaining security in all its forms. Much of the airport's security protocol is achieved through a combination of comprehensive due diligence, common sense, and consistency -- which, one would think would be the objective of airport authorities throughout the world. Yet very few other airports have achieved the level of security that exists at Ben Gurion.

All vehicles that arrive at Ben Gurion must first pass through a preliminary security checkpoint where armed guards search the vehicle and exchange a few words with the driver and occupants to gauge their mood and intentions. Plain clothes officers patrol the area outside the terminal building, assisted by sophisticated hidden surveillance cameras which operate around the clock. Armed security personnel patrol the terminal and keep a close eye on people entering the terminal building. If any persons seem suspicious or anxious, security personnel will approach them and engage them in conversation in an effort to gauge their intentions and mood. Vehicles are subject to a weight sensor, a trunk x-ray and an undercarriage scan.

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Departing passengers are questioned by highly trained security agents before they reach the check-in counter. These interviews could last as little as one minute or as long as an hour, based on such factors as age, race, religion and destination. Unlike in many western airports, passengers are not required to remove their shoes while passing through physical screening processes. Furthermore, there are no sophisticated x-ray machines; rather, traditional metal detectors are still in operation.

Raphael Ron, a former director of security at Ben Gurion, calls the passenger-oriented security system more focused on the 'human factor', based on the assumption that terrorist attacks are carried out by people who can be found and have been stopped through the use of this simple but effective security methodology. That said, there is a great array of equipment and technology available for the authorities to help combat any potential terrorist attacks. For example, checked baggage is put in a pressure chamber to trigger any possible explosive devices and robots patrol the airport grounds.

Ben Gurion airport does not sub-contract its security to private companies. Given their priority in ensuring safety and preventing terrorist attacks, the personnel on duty at Ben Gurion are highly trained army graduates who have specialist skills in detection and interrogation. They leave nothing to chance and are able to monitor the most minute details. Officials think of passenger security as a series of 'concentric' circles, with increasing scrutiny as individuals arrive closer to the plane.

Agents also pay close attention to the parts of the airport that passengers do not frequent, such as fences around the airport's perimeter, which are monitored with cameras at all times, and radar systems that check for intrusions when weather prevents cameras from effectively broadcasting.

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Ben Gurion has naturally experienced some lapses in security. In a November 2002 incident, a passenger slipped through airport security with a pocketknife and attempted to storm the cockpit of an El Al flight en route from Tel Aviv to Istanbul. While no injuries were reported and the attacker was subdued by onboard flight marshals, the airport was closed for some time. The attacker was an Israeli Arab who had managed to evade security personnel when checking in.

Most people would imagine such an event may not have happened if the passenger had been passing through what is now standard technology at most western Europe airports. The Israelis' focus on the human factor is of course not infallible. Ben Gurion may be more vulnerable to an attack from a disillusioned Israeli citizen as a result. If a terrorist network were able to recruit and train Israeli citizens, they could of course potentially evade the strict security procedures in place at Ben Gurion.

But the range of methods employed at Ben Gurion has proven to be extremely effective in preventing terrorist attacks, as its history demonstrates. Even so, many security and terrorist experts believe that, if this were always accompanied by the latest passenger-oriented security technology, Ben Gurion's security would be even more robust.

The Israelis have taken on board the concerns of civil liberties groups and researchers in developing technology that could ease concerns about racial profiling, through the use of innovative check-in kiosks, but this can never of course replace the intuition and gut instinct that accompanies human interaction. Many airport authorities around the world have sought to benefit from the Israelis' approach to airport security, though none use the entire range of tools at their disposal. In the end, limitations on financial and human resources, and preferred methodologies, determine just how thorough or inadequate security protocols can be.

If more airport authorities were to adopt Ben Gurion's approach, surely it would be more difficult for those intending to do harm to succeed. There is a lot to be said for emphasizing eye contact, behavioral cues, and instinct when addressing the subject of airport security, yet few airlines or airports make these standard operating procedure for their security protocols.

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El Al is also the only airline that routinely installs bathrooms inside the cockpits of its aircraft, so that pilots need not ever leave the cockpit. Following the Germanwings tragedy, one would think this would become standard operating procedure for airlines around the world, but it has not, presumably because of the implied cost.

If the tragedy in Brussels should teach us anything, it should be that these types of attacks are regrettably only going to become more numerous with time. Until such time as airports around the world install screening equipment at the entrance to airport terminals, it will remain easy for a terrorist to simply walk in and detonate a backpack or other form of bomb.

Governments, airport authorities and airlines should acknowledge, if they have not already, that even more money and resources must be devoted to ensuring that security protocols are substantially enhanced. Equally importantly, the flying public should recognize that the days of being able to simply walk into an airport without some form of security screening prior to entering a terminal are probably numbered. We should embrace whatever must be done to ensure our safety, rather than complain about how inconvenient it may be. The waters are swirling around us, and it should not take an event such as in Brussels to wake us up to the need to get even more serious about airport and airline security.
China bashing has become as much a part of the modern American political tradition as criticizing foreign producers of oil. The American electorate has regrettably become accustomed to the predictable torrent of anti-Chinese rhetoric from politicians of a variety of political persuasions - currently manifested by the incendiary rhetoric of Donald Trump, who is playing upon the fears and disillusionment largely of blue collar workers who do not understand that China is not the source of their problems, but rather America's failure to remain competitive in the global economic landscape.

They also do not realize that China will soon reassume the mantle of the world's largest economy - a title which it held until just before the start of the Industrial Revolution. Until that time China was the leading steel producer, textile manufacturer, and trading nation -- from the Chinese perspective, it is simply about to resume the status which it previously held. Some Americans may bristle at the notion that capitalism has helped China come to dominate the global economy, but the truth is, China was practicing capitalism a long time before America even became a nation.

China is not above criticism, and some American politicians do raise some valid points in criticizing China, such as that the government controls large parts of the Chinese economy through state-owned enterprises, which distorts the domestic market and gives some Chinese companies unfair competitive advantages. But what they then fail to say is that China must also compete in the global marketplace, and that it pays a price for supporting companies that should otherwise fail as a result of being poorly run, inefficient, or bloated.

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If the U.S. does not like the way China does business, it is of course free to do business somewhere else, but that would be a really bad idea for America. U.S. exports to China totaled $120 billion in 2014, making it the third-largest export market for U.S. goods (behind Canada and Mexico). Between 2005 and 2014, U.S. exports to China increased 198% - greater than growth to any of the other top ten U.S. export markets. The truth is, there is no country in the world more important to the growth of U.S. exports than China.

China's rapidly growing middle class is the single most important factor accounting for the success of President Obama's National Export Initiative. The U.S. not only needs to tap China's vast foreign currency reserves ($3.3 trillion - almost 28 times that of the U.S., at $119 billion ) in order to finance its trade deficit and fiscal deficit, it also needs access to China's vast market in order to sustain its economic recovery and continue to create much needed jobs for American workers. When was the last time you heard a U.S. politician admit that?

Six of the top ten states that lead in exports to China (California, Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington) set records in 2014 for exports and creating export-related jobs. Just ask any Chamber of Commerce in these states what their view of China is and you will find they are highly complimentary of the contribution China is making to the creation of jobs in their states. Since 2000, China has invested tens of billions of dollars in the U.S, generating tens of thousands of jobs.

In 2015, 18% of Chinese exports went to the U.S. , which remains a very important partner for the growth of the Chinese economy. Chinese leaders realize this, and do not reciprocate in bashing the U.S. for allegedly taking away Chinese jobs by doing business together. Campaign rhetoric aside, both countries know that they need each other. As the largest holder of U.S. Treasury Bills, China needs and wants the U.S. to succeed economically. Rather than bashing China, U.S. politicians would be well advised to forge an even stronger relationship with it. Instead of following predictable and boring scripts, U.S. politicians should turn the page on Cold War-esque rhetoric and find ways to join hands with China so as to mutually benefit from each other's comparative advantages.

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It is also worth noting that China bashing actually makes little sense in terms of getting U.S. presidential candidates elected. The top five U.S. states exporting to China by dollar volume in 2014 (Washington, California, Texas, Illinois and South Carolina) between them account for nearly 50% of the votes needed to win the U.S. presidency in the Electoral College (270 votes are required, and 134 votes are accounted for by just these 5 states). Bashing China is actually less likely to get a candidate elected, because the workers in these states have the most to lose economically by curtailing America's economic relationship with China, and they know it.

The fact is, a continued economic recovery in the U.S. cannot be achieved by isolating China. Considering what can be achieved together, and what both countries stand to lose if they are pitted against each other, forming a Sino-American strategic alliance is critical to the future economic viability of both nations. American politicians, and the American people, would be much better off recognizing this, rather than succumbing to demagoguery and incendiary rhetoric aimed at creating divisiveness between China and the U.S.

*Daniel Wagner is CEO of Country Risk Solutions and co-author of the forthcoming book "Global Risk Agility and Decision Making".
Dear Local Education Authority (LEA), State Education Authority (SEA), and Federal Education Bureaucrat (FEB?),

We are rapidly approaching the annual state-mandated testing ritual in public school, and it has become evident that all of you are a little nervous about that. I know this because you keep sending letters to each other about how important it is that every LEA test 95 percent of all children in every school and that every SEA make certain that LEAs know just how important this is. Last Fall, FEB Ann Whalen sent a dozen SEAs letters explaining to them just how important it is that they meet their testing requirements and suggesting a range of measures, both persuasive and punitive, if LEAs did not make their testing goals. This was followed by another letter to all states essentially reiterating the point. SEAs have been busy trying to impress upon their LEAs how seriously they take the federal requirement to test 95 percent of all students in all schools although with different approaches. In Connecticut, state officials have more or less threatened LEAs, while New York, home of the largest test refusal movement in the country, has tried to woo back refusing parents to the wonderful world of testing with a series of concessions on the use of tests for teacher assessment and the timed nature of the tests and a nifty "tool kit" to explain how awesome testing can be.

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So, okay, I get it: A lot of you SEAs have been nervous about what the FEBs are saying, and you are pressuring your LEAs to use both honey and vinegar to convince parents to just up and let their kids be tested already.

You still can't test my kid.

I know that you are supposed to try to convince me, otherwise, and it is probably too much to ask you to save yourself the time. However, if you do feel the need to persuade me that the testing ritual is excellent and worthwhile, you should know that I have heard most of your arguments, and, frankly, you need new ones.

To begin with, I am actually aware that my children will take tests during their lives, and it is not my intention to keep them from ever experiencing a standardized test. The thing is that most of those tests will actually serve some purpose for their lives if and when they take them. While standardized test measures are of questionable quality for college, graduate school, or professional school admission, where they are required to pursue those goals, my children will take them at the appropriate time. You should also know that I expect my children to take teacher made tests throughout their education. Tests and other assessments are part of an education, and professional teachers know how to use all kinds of tools to see how well their students are learning.

But when tests used for a state accountability system take nine hours - 6 hours LONGER than the LSAT and and an hour and half longer than the MCAT - and when the tests have to be taken every.single.year - something is seriously out of whack. Of course, the tests themselves are not the only issue. Because of the incentives attached to these tests, districts and schools across the country spend far more time preparing for and practicing test taking than any scheme for school accountability can justify. Robert Pondiscio, Vice President of External Affairs for the pro-education reform Thomas B. Fordham Institute, gets this and has urged federal officials to back off the warped incentive systems that make standardized tests an end unto themselves. He's argued that as long as punishing consequences for schools and teachers are attached to testing, we will have this problem. So far, he hasn't been listened to much.

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So I expect that my children will taken standardized tests - possibly many over the course of their lives. But when a state accountability test consumes so much time and is attached to stakes that warp my children's education, well, the cart is definitely in front of the horse.

Further, I already know that it is a matter of faith at the Federal DOE that without testing we can never look a second grader in the eye and tell her 'You're on track, you're going to be able to go to a good college, or you're not.' Frankly, if that is your goal for a conversation with a 7 year old child, then I'd kindly ask you to never visit a school, thanks, but beyond that, it remains a horrible failure of imagination to think that a state accountability test is our best and most essential way to check whether or not an individual child is learning. If you really want to increase the ability of parents to understand how well their children are doing, there are tools with far greater sophistication - that teachers could actually use in their classrooms - than an accountability test given in April whose results don't come back until the next school year is well underway. In fact, considering the amount of time in the school year spent scrambling to prepare for and to administer state tests, it is entirely counter-intuitive to think these tests are really good for telling me how my children are doing. And if we need to increase parental engagement with their children's education in all of our communities, what makes more sense? Investing in strategies and programs that are proven to help parents and guardians connect with school? Or a two page score report that doesn't include the slightest hint of what kind of test questions the test taker got wrong or how to learn from them?

The question was rhetorical, by the way.

I also understand that you want me to know that without a system of annual standardized testing with full participation then there will be no accountability for my local schools and they will be free to ignore the needs of minority children at will. This is certainly an argument that has been made with vigor, and it is one our friends the FEBs have insisted is the primary reason for testing every child in every year. I will admit there is something to this argument - not because annual testing has been a great force for making education for all students equitable. Fifteen years in and test-based accountability has been pretty wretched at that goal. It is, however, true that our school system has nowhere near the distribution of opportunity that would make the promise of a democratic school system a reality.

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But test-based accountability has the whole thing reversed. We have a test-based "achievement gap" which reflects the opportunity gap that exists across communities all over the country. To suggest that the test measured gaps result in the economic gaps ignores every bit of nuance and complexity that we know about both poverty's impacts and how segregation by income concentrates large percentages of children from poor households into specific neighborhoods. The connection between poverty and tested results is so tight that Dr. Christopher Tienken and colleagues of Seton Hall University were able to use census data to accurately predict student proficiency scores on state tests in different communities. State accountability testing is telling us very little that we do not already know.

On the other hand, those same tests have been giving ammunition to policies that insist upon educational "improvement" without focusing upon the resources necessary to work successfully with high need students: smaller class sizes, wrap around services, teacher retention policies, facility improvements, extended programs and after school supervision - none of it is free and very little of it has been offered to schools and districts under threat because of lagging test scores. Instead of genuine investment in their schools and communities, these neighborhoods are offered the "creative disruption" of school privatization that saps resources from fully public schools without accountability - all justified by test scores. No wonder then that there is a small but significant and growing conversation among civil rights activists about whether or not annual testing is the tool it was presented to be in NCLB.

My family does understand the pressure you are under, LEA. The SEA, under a lot of heat from the FEBs, has been issuing dire warnings if 95 percent of all students are not tested. Most of that is just hot air, however, and as long as you do actually test the children whose families do not opt out, you have done what you can reasonably be expected to do. We've spoken as a family all together, adults and children, and we simply do not think that any of the arguments you have made or are likely to make in favor of annual testing are going to sway us. When there is a state accountability system that is rational and used as the basis for helping schools, teachers, and students, when we accept that community and school improvement have to happen together, and when we recognize that we cannot improve schools without committing the necessary resources, then we'll reconsider our decision.

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Two things about Russia under President Vladimir Putin: First, never bet too heavily on what the former KGB strongman will do next; second, things are not always what they first appear to be.

Only two weeks ago, I remarked that Russia would not withdraw from Syria till a political settlement regarding Syria's future was achieved to Putin's satisfaction, regardless of what his ally, beleaguered Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, might wish. While I stand by what I said, I was surprised at Mr. Putin's sudden announced withdrawal a couple of days afterward.

Checking my sources reveals more than initially meets the eye: My analysis suggests Russia's sudden move amounts to more of a drawdown than a withdrawal because, despite news bulletins to the contrary, Putin yet maintains a certain military presence in Syria. Intelligence imagery indicates the Russian Sukhoi Su-24M bomber aircraft group is still largely in place.

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Reason: Russia wants to ensure that the political outcome, whatever form or shape it may be, at least supports some of its long-term objectives. Equally important, an analysis of the imagery shows Russia is not only still expanding infrastructure and facilities around its Latakia naval base but also has deployed additional assets in the past several days.

Yes, Mr. Putin caught us all by surprise with his announced Syrian drawdown. Little wonder: Syria-led coalition forces had some momentum behind them; they were on a roll, gaining ground sometimes even without a fight. But make no mistake: This partial withdrawal does not mean that things are settled militarily. The city of Aleppo remains partially encircled by jihad forces who in turn are encircled by coalition forces headed by the Syrian regime. The objective: cut the jihadists' supply lines.

The question now becomes: What does Russia's drawdown mean for Syria, the Middle East and geopolitics in general? Some points to consider:

First, the unexpected reduction in forces hardly suggests Russia's involvement in Syria is done. To the contrary, Russian aircraft remain. These are not part of the drawdown. Their mission is to attack insurgents not included in the most recent ceasefire, principally Jabhat al-Nusra (another name for al-Qaida) and the Islamic State. To quote a Russian military journalist: "The fleet remains; antiaircraft systems remain; the tanks remain; all the marines remain; the helicopters remain; some of the aircraft will remain. Only some of the aircraft and their service personnel are being taken out. And they can come back, of course, in the space of three or four hours."

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Second, it's conceivable to view the drawdown as an excuse for maintenance of Russian aircraft after an intensive period of sorties. It's also plausible this marks a shift in tempo aimed at metastasizing politics: pausing in what one might see as Russia's spiraling down unknown, unfamiliar and possibly perilous paths -- something this column has regularly highlighted.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is just now wrapping up a Moscow meeting with President Putin, an affair with far fewer tensions than recent years have seen between the Obama administration and Russian leaders. In fact, before discussions on expanding access to humanitarian aid and maintaining the Syrian ceasefire even began, Putin uncharacteristically kidded Kerry about his carrying his own luggage.

One assumption is that Mr. Putin's drawdown, coinciding with the start of Geneva talks between representatives of the Syrian regime and rebels, was not aimed at the Geneva talks but instead was intended to push the Obama administration into genuine cooperation with Russia. Recall that President Putin stated from the outset his intervention in Syria had limited objectives -- to "create conditions for a political compromise." Perhaps he is now moving toward that goal.

Another salient point that continues to intrigue analysts: Russia's drawdown will put pressure to act on both parties (Syrian regime and opposition groups) at the Geneva talks. The kicker: The burden is also on the United States to stop its own allies -- Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar -- from providing funding to and arming their proxies or even marching defiantly toward Damascus.

While the United States might be able to convince Saudi Arabia and Qatar, it will find Turkey a significant challenge given that its president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, needs the Syrian conflict to drag on longer in order to keep his hold on power. You do not have to look far to see how Turkey is using the issue of Syrian immigrants to blackmail Europe to secure money and gain European Union membership. Shame on Turkey, a Muslim country that calls itself a secular and democratic state.

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If history is any indication, this would not be the first time Mr. Putin has used a military drawdown to resolve a deadlocked political scene such as the one in Syria. It's something we saw in the lead-up to the Minsk accords concerning Ukraine. Make no mistake: Russia's political elites, including Mr. Putin, do not at this time seek a direct confrontation with NATO or the West over either Ukraine or Syria.

Where from here? Against all odds, Iran, Russia and the United States want to see a strong Syria emerge at the end. After all, Syria does have an identity. It's a proud and ancient nation. And some sort of long-sought resolution could not come at a more critical time when fundamental borders and governments throughout the Middle East are eroding, giving way to more violence, floods of refugees and the uncontrollable emergence of sectarian tension along religious lines.
Tomorrow I'm scheduled to speak at an EPA public hearing addressing a new rule that the agency has proposed regarding dangers from America's chemical plants. I will draw my remarks from a formal comment submitted today by: retired Army Lieutenant General Russel Honore, former commander of Joint Task Force Katrina; retired Army Major General Randy Manner, former acting director of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency; and me. (I'm a former staff member of the National Security Council and the Senate Intelligence Committee, and an advisor to Greenpeace on these issues.) Our written comment is below. Here's what it's about:

In 2006, Senator Barack Obama said that America's hazardous chemical facilities "are stationary weapons of mass destruction spread all across the country." In that light, the proposed EPA rule evokes a notorious Cold War prescription for nuclear attack: Duck and cover.

Emergency preparedness, the EPA rule's focus, is critical. But even more essential is prevention of a chemical disaster in the first place. And in this regard, the proposed rule falls well short.

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Such a chemical disaster could be caused by accident, by natural disaster, or by terrorists.

This is a national security issue. The Administration must treat it like one, with the kind of urgency we give to weapons of mass destruction overseas.

I don't see how President Obama, who offered such a clear perspective on this danger, would want to read that his EPA's final rule was exposed as far too weak by groups representing communities living near these hazardous plants, by unions representing chemical plant workers, by national security experts like General Manner and General Honore, and others.

There surely would be scrutiny of a weak EPA rule if one day we did have a major chemical catastrophe. The pesticide plant in Bhopal India, which killed 20,000 people following a 1984 accident, was owned by a U.S. company, Union Carbide. If that plant had been located in the U.S. and 20,000 people had died here, we would have fixed this problem long ago. We must not wait for such a tragedy.

General Honore and General Manner, along with our coalition of environmental justice, environment, and labor groups, are calling on the EPA to require chemical plants to move to inherently safer technologies (IST) where feasible. Safer cost-effective chemical processes are widely available; since 2001, hundreds of chemical facilities have switched. We must overcome the resistance of intransigent chemical companies like Koch Industries and their Washington lobbyists, and make this happen.

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Here's our written comment:

*****************************************************************************************

March 28, 2016

Honorable Gina McCarthy, Administrator

Environmental Protection Agency

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20460

Docket # EPA-HQ-OEM-2015-0725

Dear Administrator McCarthy:

In 2006, U.S. Senator Barack Obama offered the clearest statement of the dangers posed by America's hazardous chemical facilities. "Basically," he said, "these plants are stationary weapons of mass destruction spread all across the country."[1] In that light, the instant rule, proposed a decade later by the EPA under President Barack Obama, evokes a notorious Cold War prescription for a nuclear attack: Duck and Cover.[2]

Emergency preparedness in the event of a chemical plant disaster, the proposed rule's focus, is indeed critically important for our national security. But even more essential in this context is prevention of a chemical disaster in the first place. And in this regard, the proposed rule falls well short of what is required to protect Americans from catastrophic harm.

As former holders of U.S. national security positions, we believe the EPA should require the use of safer alternatives for all hazardous facilities where they are feasible, and we strongly urge the EPA to modify its final rule to achieve that outcome.

For decades, our country has failed to squarely address the security problem that unsecured chemical facilities present. It is a glaring danger that puts millions of our citizens at risk.

In August 2013, President Obama took an important first step with his Executive Order requiring a government review of safety and security procedures at chemical plants.[3]

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The President initiated this process, in part, because of the April 2013 ammonium nitrate explosion in West, Texas, which killed 15 people and injured 160 more. This tragedy highlighted much of the chemical industry's repeated failure to minimize and safely store toxic materials, and our government's failure to create comprehensive and fair rules to protect against such incidents.

Since the West, Texas, disaster, there have been more than 430 chemical incidents and 82 deaths. None of us should ignore the possibility of more accidents, or chemical incidents resulting from natural disasters, with even more violent consequences. Many of us recall the 1984 pesticide plant disaster at Bhopal, India, which caused 20,000 deaths.

Terrorists could trigger a chemical plant attack in our country, with consequences like Bhopal, 9-11, or even worse. In 2003, the government's National Infrastructure Protection Center warned that chemical plants in the United States could be terrorist targets.[4] Security experts have warned of the relative ease with which a determined team of attackers could thwart conventional plant security. The potential for cyber attacks makes the challenge even more serious.

The EPA has identified 466 chemical facilities in the U.S. that each put 100,000 or more people at risk of a poison gas disaster.[5] In 2005, the Homeland Security Council projected that a major attack would set off a deadly gas cloud that would kill some 17,500 people and injure tens of thousands more.[6]

This is a national security issue, and the Administration must treat it like one, with the kind of urgency we give to weapons of mass destruction overseas.

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If our citizens are to be protected, the new rule must mandate the use of safer chemicals, substances, and processes. The EPA has the authority to issue rules to require chemical plants to move to inherently safer technologies (IST) -- which would make them less attractive to terrorists while protecting workers and families living near these facilities. Former EPA administrators Christine Todd Whitman and Lisa Jackson have each called for the EPA to move ahead with such an approach.[7]

This approach is also consistent with the principles the Obama Administration developed for chemical security legislation (CFATS) in 2009 and which were contained in a November 2009 House-passed bill (H.R. 2868). They also were reiterated in 2011 congressional testimony by Rand Beers, then the Under Secretary, National Protection and Programs Directorate, Department of Homeland Security.[8]

Safer cost-effective chemical processes are widely available. Since 2001, hundreds of chemical facilities have switched to safer processes.[9] Clorox Company, for example, has converted all of its U.S. facilities. Based on the many facilities that have converted, the result is reliable protection for employees and communities against catastrophic disasters at minimal cost. Wherever this can be done it should be a requirement.

The proposed rule takes an important first step by mandating that certain high-risk chemical plants conduct a safer technology and alternatives analysis (STAA) and feasibility assessment on the use of inherently safer technologies.

But the proposed rule needs to be dramatically improved in the area of prevention. A final rule should:

Require all RMP facilities -- those that use extremely hazardous substances and thus are required to develop a Risk Management Plan -- to assess safer alternatives to existing chemical processes, alternatives that will eliminate or dramatically reduce the consequences of a catastrophic release of an acutely toxic substance. The proposed rule exempts 87 percent of the some 12,500 Risk Management Plan chemical facilities from requirements to conduct STAAs. The exempted facilities include, for example, water treatment plants, some of which put major cities at risk of a catastrophic release of chlorine gas.

Require all these RMP facilities to send their safer alternatives analyses (STAA) to the EPA and readily share the information with nearby communities and other interested parties, such as emergency responders, vendors of safer technologies, facility employees and contractors, and safety researchers.

Establish a publicly accessible clearinghouse of safer available alternatives that could encourage and support the adoption of safer alternatives by more facilities as soon as practicable.

Starting with the highest risk facilities, require chemical facilities to substitute safer alternatives to their processes, wherever feasible, that will eliminate or significantly reduce the consequences of a catastrophic release. The coalition of community, worker, and environmental groups[10] that has engaged the EPA on these issues has recommended that EPA at the very least begin a pilot program to require IST implementation in a subset of RMP facility categories, such as waste water and drinking water treatment plants, bleach plants and hydrogen fluoride refineries, and for those facilities among the 2,000 high-risk facilities cited in the EPA's National Enforcement Initiative (NEI) 2017-19 proposal.

We understand that the technical and organizational challenges of requiring companies to move to safer technologies are complex. But it can, and must, be done. Given the magnitude of chemical facility hazards posed by potential accidents, natural disasters, and terrorist attacks, you should not wait any longer to protect the American people.

Sincerely,

Lieutenant General Russel L Honore, US Army (Ret)

Former commander, Joint Task Force Katrina

Major General Randy Manner, US Army (Ret)

Former Acting Director and Deputy Director, Defense Threat Reduction Agency

David Halperin

Attorney, former staff member, National Security Council & Senate Intelligence Committee, and adviser to Greenpeace U.S.

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[2] "Duck and Cover" is a 1951 film produced by the American Federal Civil Defense Administration. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqCxcnhNAeQ

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[8] Beers testified on March 30, 2011, to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce:

The Administration supports, where possible, using safer technology, to enhance the security of the nation's high-risk chemical facilities. Similarly, we recognize that risk management requires balancing threat, vulnerabilities, and consequences with the costs and benefits of mitigating risk. In this context, the Administration has established the following policy principles in regard to inherently safer technologies (IST) at high-risk chemical facilities:
BY KARA I. STEVENS

Travel is one of my top sources of personal growth and spiritual development, but it does not come without its financial or safety risks. Incorporating these travel hacks into your wanderlust repertoire will enhance each and every one of your next excursions.



1. Leave your uninsured or very valuable jewelry at home. I really don't know how it happened, but I lost my engagement ring on my recent trip to London. I'm still devastated by it and to this day I have no clue as to how it happened. I woke up on my fourth day into my wonderful visit absent one expensive engagement ring. Consider having a "travel engagement" ring, which can be a basic band that serves as a placeholder. It does the same job as the real ring -- signals to the thirsties that you are off the market while giving you peace of mind that if you lose it, you won't feel bad.

2. Take a photo of your passport and send it to your family members. When I lived in the Dominican Republic as a dark-skinned Black woman, I was always mistaken for Haitian, which if you have been keeping up with the news means living an extremely marginalized and predatory life, where your citizenship is often questioned, scrutinized, and in the case of a lot of Haitian-Dominicans, unfairly revoked. Living as an honorary Haitian in the Dominican Republic taught me that I needed to ensure that I had a second layer of security when it came to safeguarding my passport should anything happen.

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3. Carry a blanket on the airplane. If you are the type that is always cold, be sure to carry a small blanket with you or dress in layers. Airlines like Sunwing charge you $12 for a blanket, which, as far as I'm financially concerned, is highly disrespectful.



4. Walk with singles or fives. When I was in the Bahamas, I found the service to be impeccable. Being able to tip without the worrying of breaking the bank added an extra layer of fulfillment to my vacation.

5. Carry a few of your favorite snacks. When you travel to remote destinations and have no regular transportation, having your favorite snacks around can ward off hunger. It also creates a sense of normalcy and routine that, though, you are on vacation, may be a welcomed part of your experience. Bringing your favorites also helps you reduce any frustration you may have with the host city or country for not being what you expected them to be. There won't be, "I can't believe that they don't have ______ (fill in the blank) here," because you have your own.



6. Get a room with a microwave or kitchen. If you use sites like AirBnB, this is automatic: get a home with this amenity. But if you prefer hotel living, then be on the lookout for rooms with a kitchen. When I was staying in Virginia for a 5-day self-funded writer's retreat, I stayed at Arlington Suites because of their affordable prices and kitchen area. They also have a shuttle, which drops you to a shopping area where you can buy groceries and cook yourself up something. This is a healthier and cheaper alternative to going out every night. Also, this option means that you can warm-up your food if you have extra from the previous day's dining.



7. Walk with a "travel" wallet. Leave the wallet that you normally use for everyday living at home. Buy a second wallet or find one that you no longer use and designate that as your "travel wallet." This wallet will having just what you need for your jaunt: money, piece of identification, and your credit/debit card if you walk with one. In the event that you lose it, there won't be much to have to replace or cancel.

8. Pack products that are about to be done instead of new ones. I know for me, I love packing the perfumes, deodorants, hair products, and face wash that are about to run out. It saves me from having to buy new ones, clears clutter from my house, and creates room for me in the luggage on my return home. I also apply this principle to a percentage of clothes that I can give away or leave behind.

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9. Leave moocher friends at home. If you have friends that are all about complaining about money when you go out locally, then do yourself a favor and do not plan trips with them abroad. If you budget for a trip in advance, you have the benefit of setting aside money to spend as you like when you are on vacation. If you have a friend that is not in position to do that, bring them back a souvenir but don't bring them with you. You may feel compelled to "lend" them the money.



10. Leave super extravagant friends at home. If you have diva friends that turn up their noses at three-star hotels, worry about "Third World" living conditions, and carry the (obnoxious) American perspective of customer service and food everywhere they go, then you will be spending a lot of money to live like Americans wherever you go. This can defeat the purpose of travel if you yearn to experience a new culture, be open to exploring other world views, and self-discovery.



11. Speak to your cell phone provider before you leave. Before I left for London, I spoke with T-Mobile about temporarily switching my plan so that I could avoid roaming fees and international talk and data charges. I also used What'sApp and Hangouts Dialer to be in touch at home without fear of having to eat beans and rice for a month to pay my bills.

12. Be kind to Customs agents. Even if you have to muster up all that is good and right about your life and trip in that moment, do so. Customs agents have the power to make transitions very long or very short. On the other hand, I know it's common practice for Customs agents to profile, so there are things like your gender, race, color, and age that are out of your control. I remember being detained in Jamaica on my way to Tobago and in Puerto on my way to New York City coming from Antigua for reasons still unbeknownst to me. In each of these situations, I kept my cool. I knew that a level head made the process as painless as possible.

I firmly believe that travel introduces a woman to herself. Using these travel and money hacks will ensure that you will get the best out of your next excursion, no matter where you go.

Read more compelling, entertaining and thought-provoking African-American focused content at EBONY.com.
FILE - In this March 21, 2016 file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks in Washington. Republican and Democratic presidential candidates clashed over the role of government, and its limitations, in enforcing U.S. national security Tuesday, March 22, 2016, following deadly attacks on the Brussels airport and metro system. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)

How to explain the indispensable role of the news media in lubricating the unfathomable rise of Donald Trump?

It can't be favoritism. I venture to say that a survey of U.S. journalists taken at the start of the primary season would have found support among the working press for the idea that Trump was a plausible, let alone desirable, presidential candidate would have been infinitesimal.

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Donald Trump? Really? He was viewed as at best a mildly comic oddity, and if pressed, I suspect most journalists would have said he was little more than a vain, preening, ill-informed, self-absorbed, loud-mouthed TV celebrity. He was distinguished mainly by his wealth, iridescent hair, multiple wives, mixed record of business success, and passion for naming things after himself -- in short, a curiosity who had never shown any inclination to serve the public or, for that matter, anything other than himself.

But if media people found him a clown, his candidacy, without doubt, has been profoundly indebted to the same media those people work for.

Not that his success has been a media creation. Trump has a genius for sussing out an audience, and he stumbled onto real voters who've been really hurt. It's a constituency of the angry and the disaffected, who admire Trump's swagger and flamboyancy, and his apparent indifference to the contempt of the establishment. His followers seem convinced of his determination to advance their interests -- even though it's a population he hasn't lifted a finger for in his professional life.

So he has genuine followers, and he deserves credit for giving voice to their frustration. But his ability to reach that constituency has been a service done for him by the media.

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Never has a political aspirant so successfully mastered the media. Both fascinated and appalled, the country's top news organizations have lavished Trump with attention as, by far, the most colorful, interesting and, above all, newsworthy, figure in the electoral landscape. The 2016 campaign, so far, belongs to him.

The news media can't duck the fact that they are the single biggest reason why he is now the leading contender for the Republican Party nomination. He has spent little on paid advertising, and his towering public profile has been hugely dependent on the early and sustained decision by the nation's news gatekeepers that he's news -- and thereby gets "coverage" while others can command audience attention only by paying for it.

The Trump people get this. He understands the media. It's how he became a brand. It's what he does.

On Feb. 25 Marco Rubio, the Florida senator, by all accounts bested Trump in the Republican candidates debate. He used bluster, guile, schoolyard abuse on a par with Trump's, and a display of spine that had been until then absent from Rubio's campaign posture. The news cycle was primed to award the trophy du jour to Rubio -- until the morning of Feb. 26, when the Trump people produced Chris Christie, the New Jersey governor. Christie had apparently had an overnight conversion and called a press conference to throw his support, such as it was, to Trump.

It was perfectly played. The hapless Florida senator lost his headlines. "Rubio roars back," "The Little Engine that could" -- forget about those. Instead, as weightless as a Christie endorsement might prove to be, Trump had grabbed away the news spotlight -- thanks to the complicity of the news media. The media had decided that being led by their noses was worth abandoning the customary rules under which, as long as the debates were going to be considered worth following and scoring, the person who had won them deserved his moment in the spotlight.

So why is this? Trump moves the needle. If this was still the print age, we'd say he sells papers. The GOP primary debates draw huge audiences, largely because he's there, spouting off, insulting his opponents, uttering the unutterable, being Donald.

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Whole sectors of the media are already dependent on the country's election cycle, and the owners of local TV stations routinely factor in the same out-of-control campaign spending that is destroying what's left of our democracy as a windfall that enables them to remain solvent. Remember, most of the money squandered on campaigns ends up in the media's hands.

Now the national news media have discovered that under the right circumstances -- meaning, in every important respect, with the wrong candidate -- campaigns can be good business for them too. It's a point that, with greater finesse, Jim Rutenberg made in his New York Times column that foregrounded "the mutual dependency" of Trump and the media.

The media are even willing to ignore the grotesque remarks Trump has made about some of their stars, including Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly, and his campaign's efforts to exclude reporters from outlets that have criticized him, reportedly including NPR, Politico and Huffington Post. I mean, who gets away with imposing a loyalty test on which reporters can cover his presidential campaign? Donald, apparently. He has licensed himself to the media -- which is the core of his ludicrous business model he brought with him to the campaign -- and instead of collecting royalties, he collects voters.

All that said, it may not end badly. The moldy idea that sunlight is the best disinfectant doesn't work as a clinical proposition, but may hold true when applied to presidential aspirants. In the past few days, the low-bore, thuggish brutality inflicted by some of Trump's supporters against protesters at his rallies has drawn huge media coverage -- one might say, disproportionate attention. Demogoguery is mentioned, Hitleresque comparisons abound, Trump's admiring remarks about Mussolini are cited, his misogyny is rediscovered.

Trump's own incongruities and idiocies in the foreign policy realm are also beginning to attract the sort of searching analysis presidential candidates deserve -- and this too is likely to be even more skeptical in light of the gaze he has welcomed and an apparently servile media have been desperate to furnish.

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Cosmopolitan gourmets are always looking for the next new trend, supported in their quest by insatiable media, marketers, and entrepreneurs. Relatively unexplored culinary traditions around the world are drawing their attention: we can mention West Indian, Peruvian, and Brazilian cuisines among those who are gaining in popularity among US consumers and elsewhere. Other food cultures, however, seem to have had a harder time making their mark on the international scene, despite their undeniable qualities. African cuisines - with some exceptions such as Ethiopian and Moroccan - would appear to fall in that category. Although restaurants showcasing them are relatively easy to find, especially in larger cities, they have not achieved the same kind of prominence as, let's say, Thai or Cuban ones.

At times, national governments have played an important role in supporting the global diffusion their gastronomies. These interventions can prove extremely problematic when defining a national cuisine is fraught with complicated issues of identity, power negotiations among different stakeholders, and the struggle to identify the communities -ethnic, religious, or otherwise - who belong to the national project and whose dishes and ingredients are deemed worthy of being included. Furthermore, although governments around the world are realizing how food can play an important role in supporting tourist flows towards their countries, often funding and expertise in those domains are not readily available.

In this varied landscape, West African cuisines are finally acquiring visibility, thanks to their interesting ingredients, their complexity, and their long history. Although African immigrant communities are relatively small in most American cities, restaurants inspired by their counties of origin are popping up here and there, reflecting diverse traditions and culinary backgrounds. In fact, it is impossible to even talk about African cuisine as a single entity, as the continent is home to very different climates, crops, and populations. However, just like some still talk about Chinese food traditions as a monolithic unit with some regional variations, for some restaurant-goers the concept of "Africa" maintains some validity as a filter to make sense of unknown flavors and practices.

Besides being worthy exploring in themselves, West African cuisines, could also provide a different, more inclusive filter for Americans - and for anybody living in the New world - to understand many aspects of their own culinary history who are rooted in African diaspora and the forced relocation of African as slaves all along the Atlantic, from the US to Brazil, as well as Colombia and Peru. Who were these Africans? From where in Africa were they brought to the Western Hemisphere? What were the culinary worlds that they carried with them, although they often were not able to fully express them, as they struggled to survive slavery and exploitation? What technical knowledge in food production were they experts in? We know, for example, that the Carolina Gold, a world-famous rice variety in colonial time, thrived in the South of the United States thanks to the skills and experience of West African slaves who were rice growers in their lands of origin. However, their contribution was erased over time, and only recently has their relevance been recognized as crucial.

The global circulation of African cuisines and products is not only a thing of the past. Chef and restaurateur Pierre Thiam, author of the successful cookbook Senegal: Modern Senegalese Recipes from the Source to the Bowl, will discuss the unique food culture of his native Senegal - as well as the influence of African practices and dishes on the development of American foodways - at The New School on March 31, in connection with the performance Symposium in the Drum: From Africa to the New World. The conversation will also explore the diffusion of West African cuisines abroad and the challenges they face, from product availability to customers' perception. What's the role of chefs from Africa in making these culinary traditions more accessible and better known? Could their work stimulate curiosity in their culinary cultures as a whole, as my friend chef Michael Elegbede is doing for Nigeria? Could they contribute to the growth of food tourism in their places of origin? We can't give so many responsibilities to West African chefs, or any chef for that matter. Nevertheless, their unique position as informal ambassadors counts. At times, it can count a whole lot.


--William Bouguereau,The Bacchante

For reasons no one seems able to explain, France of late has been deluged with graphic images of the bacchanal. In case you've forgotten the bacchanal is not merely a wild sex frolic in the woods. It was the mythic sylvan orgy that led men, women, beasts and children into hysteric ecstasy wherein the heroic well-muscled lads inevitably fell victim to the deadly magic hidden behind irresistible, large breasted nymphs.

Obsession with the bacchanal has swept the western world on a regular basis since the Renaissance brought light to the grim, gray Middle Ages. Bacchanal obsession reached its height among painters and sculptors at the height of the prudish Victorian era. Now in this era of ISIS, evangelical End Days and environmental melt down, the mysteries of the bacchanal are back, and Bacchus's bowl is overflowing.

I might have been fifteen when I first learned about Bacchus. The Flowing Bowl was the title of my father's weekly column at the Yale Daily News, over the signature Dionysus, columns that his strict Methodist father surely never read. Dionysus, or for the Romans Bacchus, was, like Jesus, the mortal human born from the thigh of Zeus, placed here to celebrate and encourage the delights of sensuality--and to encourage madness among the witless.

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This year's extraordinary display, Modern Bacchanals: Nudity, Inebriation and Dance at the Galerie des Beaux Arts in Bordeaux, is at once visually sumptuous and strikingly encyclopedic. It also addresses directly today's global eruptions and disruptions over the meaning of gender. It brings to mind centuries of Bacchanalian parades throughout the Italian boot, festivities led by women that repeatedly brought the Republic to quaking danger.



--Armand Sylvestre, gravure of Rabelais's Nude

As one contemporary commentator wrote "they have been celebrated all over Italy and

now even within the City in many places, and [...] you have learned this not only from rumour but also from their din and cries at night, which echo throughout the

City, but I feel sure that you do not know what this thing is. Some believe that it is a form of worship of the gods, others that it is an allowable play and pastime, and, what ever it is, that it concerns only a few ... First, then, a great part of them are women, and they are the source of this mischief; then there are men very like the women, debauched and debauchers, fanatical, with senses dulled by wakefulness, wine, noise and shouts at night."

The observer might have been an early 20th century journalist, but in fact it was the Roman author Livy writing in 186 BC.

The myths of the bacchanal, as well as their periodic re-enactments, have particularly fascinated artists especially during the height of industrialization in the 19th century, which is the focal period of the paintings and sculptors at Bordeaux: Rodin, Renoir, Courbet, Delacroix, Levy, Gerome and notably the sculptor James (Jean-Jacques) Pradier. All of them and scores more are present in this collection, which run until late May.

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"There was a great fascination [then] with the relation between love and wine, particularly represented by Bacchus," curator Sandra Buratti-Hasan explained. At the same time 19th century French artists fell under a near obsession with the bodies of women, specifically the voluptuous--and profoundly dangerous--figure of the bacchant, the seductive figure whose animal powers are repeatedly revealed in her ecstatic coitus with the horned, bearded half-human, half-ram Satyrs. "They are free in their bodies, they are free in their sexuality: it's around that, their power that fascinated, and frightened, the men."



Emile Levy, The Death of Orpheus

Nowhere is that fear and obsession clearer than in the scores of paintings and the many operas drawn on the myths of the ill-fated lovers Orpheus and Euridice. The myths are manifold, but at the core is the question of whether Orpheus, the son of the god Apollo, was true in his love for his lost Euridice. In the version that most captured 19th century artists the wild female Maenads distrusted the irresistibly handsome Orpheus whose talent at the lute had drawn everyone to his charm; in their crazed wine-fueled hysteria, the Maenads pierced Orpheus with a spear.

At the core of the bacchanal lay the notion that female power once released led to hysteria beyond male control spreading chaos across the land. Fear of female magic is as ancient as the Greeks and as contemporary as Jihadist rape and evangelical damnation. And of course more sophisticated notions of female hysteria played a key role in the darker side of Freudian and post-Freudian psychoanalysis.

instability.



--Edgard Maxence, The Fawn

The paintings, the gravures and the sculptors in the Bacchanale Moderne require little explanation once these classical references are born in mind. Still, one of the most remarkable absences in Western art's celebration of the voluptuous female body is how devoid those bodies were of actual sex organs. Before Courbet's notorious Origin of the World women's sex was almost always completely erased: no labia, no clitoris, and only very, very rarely the slightest suggestion of a vaginal crease. For all their love of Bacchanal debauchery, the same is true for these 19th Century painters and sculptors even as well-formed testicles and penises are on full display, not to mention tight muscular buns on the male backsides.

This persistent erasure of female sex--as opposed the well developed male obsession for bulging mammaries and pert nipples--was until the arrival of 1960s feminism an unmistakable hallmark of occidental art. Not until the new kinds of bacchanalia represented by Woodstock and its imitators, would the mysteries beneath Courbet's pubic forest come into its own.

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--Jean-Jacques Pradier, The Satyr and the Bacchante

[All images courtesy Bordeaux Musee des Beaux Arts]

NEXT UP: A retrospective of Judy Chicago's Vaginal Dinner Party in paint and porcelain.
The idea behind deconstruction is to deconstruct the workings of strong nation-states with powerful immigration policies, to deconstruct the rhetoric of nationalism, the politics of place, the metaphysics of native land and native tongue... The idea is to disarm the bombs... of identity that nation-states build to defend themselves against the stranger, against Jews and Arabs and immigrants..." - Jacques Derrida



It was Sigmund Freud who created a structural approach about how the unconscious mind works. The unconscious acts like a container for all of our primitive wishes and impulses; for Freud, he found that for some of his patients their experiences of certain events were so traumatic that they repressed them to the point that they became unconscious. Now, the main point for this article is that Freud also states that these issues, losses, or trauma's find other ways to re-emerge.

So, what if this model is then taken and applied to society as a whole and we begin looking at each current event as a moment when our corporate social-unconscious erupts on the scene to remind us that what we think we repressed is still there after-all? What we may come to encounter are the very things we are tempted to repress yet again, and for the sake of human progress, this would be a disaster.

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The multiple sieges in Gaza are indicative of a country eating itself from within. People who have both been misguided by misinterpreting their own holy books. However, the point of the multiple ongoing crises in Gaza, Syria and the upsurge in immigrant migration from the East to the West tells us more about ourselves then it does them. The most grotesque of examples is a more infamous one, the one where an innocent migrating child washes ashore dead. So, if we employ Freud's notion of the unconscious here, what does this say about us?

In terms of the immigrant, we are told by the media (along with many conservative politicians) that the problem with immigration are the migrants themselves. They might come and take our jobs. They might come and consume our resources. They might come and bring copious amounts of uncontrolled violence. They might bring unknown diseases. Now, these are simply myths we are told to justify the false-fears being perpetuated in a bought-and-paid-for-western media who are literally compensated for spinning facts at the expense of truth.

This also demonstrates something basic which is seemingly lacking in the West, compassion. We think we're tolerant and accepting of the other, but this little body reminds us that: we still fear the other. We believe the bedtime stories we are inundated with. That monsters exist, and we found a name for them.

No, this child acts as a mirror and window into our unconscious fears.

We would rather choose corporate self-preservation, or our own convenient comforts. To absolve ourselves of the guilt of yet another dead child, we sit and quietly cry or send a few dollars to fix a crisis that needs more than money. It needs our bedrooms, our food, our water, our care. So, no, we are not as compassionate as we think we are. This needs to change at the cost of our own water-tight ideologies that keeps us from human transference.

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No matter what you're opinion is on Black Lives Matter and its relationship to identity politics, there are issues that we have suppressed for far too long. For years now, America has haughtily assumed that we were a tolerant nation, embracing the outsider and etc. Obviously, this is not the case. We have turned citizen against citizen in the name of racial bias, in the name of abused power and police brutality.

In reality, we are still stuck in the 60's, with Martin Luther King Jr having failed, because we haven't actualized his 'dream', and we are still a nation who is racist. America has a long way to go before we can use the word progress and mean it. We are in the Second Wave of a Civil Rights movement. So, what is in our unconscious trying to get out?

Essentially the trauma is that of the white unconscious. In that, much like the Jews were for the German, the Black community has become the scapegoat for the white community (obviously, this is not the case for everyone!). The idea behind the scape-goating is that the black community is at fault for the disunity in society (i.e., why we have obscene amounts of violence which is due to their unemployment, why gun abuse is on the rise, and etc. - we can also see this same kind of thinking against those in the Islamic community). So, the unconscious then is a reminder that all of the fantasies we create in our mind to justify why we think the way we do, is simply a fantasy that feeds itself on itself.

Trump, for many is an anomaly. Not in the sense of who he is or what he represents, but moreso, why he is successfully part of the Presidential race. However, his participation represents the very unconscious that Freud expounded upon. This particular component is the repressed unconscious coming to the forefront of society. Meaning, Trump is working as a political prop to show us that all of the progress we think we've made is itself part of the story we tell ourselves to believe about ourselves but isn't true. Yet, he embodies the truth of our predicament: That we haven't got rid of xenophobia, bigotry, racism, Islamophobia, patriarchy or misogyny and that its still present in other acceptable forms (i.e. institutional patriarchy, misogyny racism).

We don't really agree that women should be treated equally, hence why we still have women who are fighting for equality (and they should); we still are a racist country (it's why Black Lives Matter exists!), all you need to do is turn on your television; we still fear outsiders, hence why innocent immigrant children are dying because of our politics of our fear and geographic privileging. The exclusive approach to what we think it means to be American (by denying certain people groups access to resources in America) seems to get smaller and smaller as more issues arise (i.e., an American is not a Black person, America is not an Immigrant, America is not an Islamic Person and etc.) - showing the intrinsic bigotry of nationalism.

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The more we deny these things, the more they will find other ways to emerge. The more we deny them, the more they embrace us and remind us of their existence. These issues are serious, and can not just be treated as political issues, but as issues of personal and corporate responsibility. Things won't change until we're willing to challenge our own prevailing narrative that conveniently allows us to believe what we believe at the cost of others.
I was born and raised in Brussels. When I landed in Tokyo last week, the news of the attacks of March 22 hit me like a bullet. It reminded me of the call of my youngest son in Hong Kong on September 11, 2001. Proximity to dramatic events hurt by their familiarity, the anxiety of the identity of the victims and the anger against those who believe they can murder, destroy and rape. Today, I want to look at something that is almost unspeakable: over the past fifteen years, most terrorist attacks have been made by people who proclaimed the name of Islam or Allah.

Is Islam a violent religion?

The history of Islam is brutal. Prophet Mohammed was a religious leader but also a warlord who imposed his beliefs through military actions. As the military leader of Medina, he was fighting the leader of Mecca for ten years.

The Quran contains at least 109 verses that call Muslims to war with nonbelievers for the sake of Islamic rule. "Fighting is prescribed to you" -- Quran 2-216

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Schisms on the succession of the Prophet are the basis for the fight between Shiites and Sunnis that lasted for centuries and was revived by the Bush administration war in Iraq that would lead to the creation of ISIS.

Hezbollah is a Shi'a Islamist organization, Al Qaeda is a Sunni Islamist organization, Boko Haram is the Islamist West Africa Province, Daesh pretends to be the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham. All over its history, Islam has been associated with violence. Beheading and lapidating are part of Islam.

Islam is a religion, not a Church.

We would all want -- and so would moderate Muslims -- that there could be an overarching authority that would have the power to speak on behalf of the 1.6 billion Muslims around the world. There is no Pope for Islam.

While Islam does have many attributes of a church -- mosques, mullahs and imams, religious rites -- the lack of organization does not give any authority the right to act and define a common message.

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Religions bring values and identity. The dogmatic part of religion is fairly similar -- creation of the world, rituals, deity, sanctity and revelation. The moral part is much more influenced by cultural and historical aspects. It is the field where the opposition in the daily life makes integration of religions a challenge. The right to kill, the place of women, the respect of the other religions, family and many other dimensions have created oppositions inside countries or between countries.

It is also where religion interferes with politics. Religious wars have often been the pretext of political conflicts, and continue to do so. They also create frictions with immigrants who bring other values.

The migration from Arab countries to Europe as a result of the conflicts that are leading to the disintegration the Middle East puts Christianity in direct opposition with Islam. It is extraordinary difficult to integrate Islamic values into the Western world.

Islam is accountable for terrorist attacks made in its name

After every terrorist attack in the Western world, the local Muslim communities go a long way to distance themselves from the crimes that are committed in the name of Islam. It is important, but insufficient. It does not absolve Islam from its part of responsibility.

In most cases, terrorists have started by being petty criminals and often have been in jail before becoming activists. It is through a form of radicalization that happens in Muslim circles and mosques that they turn into kamikazes, murderers or rapists. What do they hear? What is the message mosques are conveying? What is happening in families or other Muslim organizations?

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It is important not to generalize and to refuse Islamophobia. But that should not make us blind. Islam is accountable for what, for fifteen years has been killed, destroyed or raped in its name. The Muslim leadership needs to find ways to organize itself and exclude possible terrorists from its ranks. That cannot be done by politicians.

If we want to reduce the risks of Islamophobia like the one that Donald Trump is preaching as part of his hatred and racist messages, our political leadership has to convey an unambiguous message to the Islamic leadership: they are accountable and responsible to find solutions to a problem that emanates from their beliefs and values.
by Vic Strecher

Near the British Museum in London is the headquarters of Bupa, one of the largest health-care companies in the world. Meeting with their chief executive officer, Stuart Fletcher, I'd learned ahead of time that he had a tradition of placing his senior leaders beneath a blinding spotlight and asking them what their purpose was. The ordeal reminded me of George Bernard Shaw's suggestion that we should all "appear before a board every five years, and justify our existence . . . on pain of liquidation." What, I wondered as I waited in his anteroom, does Stuart Fletcher do with employees who are unable to define their purpose? Is a trapdoor involved?

Entering his CEO-ish office I encountered an ebullient man with bright eyes and a bounce in his step. In fact, he reminded me of Tigger from Winnie the Pooh--counter to my stereotype of a world-class CEO.

Our conversation began by discussing the purpose of Bupa, which was displayed prominently throughout the headquarters: "longer, healthier, happier lives." It was clearly more than just a slogan dreamed up by the marketing department. Not only does this purpose provide an ethical compass in the everyday decisions Fletcher and his people make, it also motivates his personal behavior to take the stairs and walk many miles a week.

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I asked him where his interest in purpose came from. He responded slowly, eyes welling up: "I don't generally talk about this, but when I was a child, my elder brother was killed in an accident. It shattered my parents, and for me, his death taught me that we're not here forever--life is very precious. In the brief time that we are here, the possibility is to make it really count!"

A purpose in life may be thought of as a self-transcending goal that you deeply value. A purpose, like other goals, focuses the mind and removes extraneous clutter. That it comes from one's core values makes it non-negotiable and authentic.

The ubiquitous corporate mission, "To make the world a better place," has practically become a joke. We know better, and as many business-focused people (the more candid ones, anyway) have told me, "The ultimate goal of any business is to maximize shareholder value." What about the "make the world a better place"? What about the customer? The employees? The community? Do they matter?

Self-transcending purpose has been shown through dozens of research studies to be good for your health. Revenue-transcending purpose in companies appears to be good for your business. In their book Firms of Endearment, business school professors Raj Sisodia, David Wolfe, and Jag Sheth identified twenty-eight companies based on the strength of, and demonstrated dedication to, a revenue-transcending purpose. You've heard of many of these companies: REI, Trader Joe's, 3M, Costco. They're loved by their customers, employees, and surrounding communities. They were deliberately not selected for this study because of their financial performance, but because of their purpose.

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Sisodia and his colleagues matched the financial performance from 1998 to 2013 of their twenty-eight Firms of Endearment against the Standard & Poor's 500 and companies selected from the Good to Great book by Jim Collins. Three years into the comparison, the Good to Great companies were returning over 200 percent of investment, more than doubling the performance of both the Firms of Endearment and the S&P 500. It looked at that time like the focus on revenue, regardless of purpose, resulted in more revenue.

By 2013, over the fifteen-year period, the Good to Great companies returned 263 percent of investment, completely swamping the 118 percent return from the S&P 500. But hold on to your stock portfolio: by 2013, the Firms of Endearment ended up returning 1,681 percent of investment!

In his famous book Working, Studs Terkel said that work "is about the search, too, for daily meaning as well as daily bread, for recognition as well as for cash, for astonishment rather than torpor; in short, for a sort of life rather than a Monday through Friday sort of dying." Yet torpor and dying is the situation that the employees of most businesses find themselves in.

Large corporations often have mission workshops requiring all new employees to learn a treacly mission statement and watch an inspirational video or two with cloying music from the illegitimate spawn of Kenny G and John Tesh. A human resource representative then asks employees to describe how the mission relates to their life. Kill me now.

Here's a quick six-step guide for finding your company's authentic purpose:

Step 1: Consider the top three-to-five core values of the company. What are the things the company cares about the most? What's non-negotiable?

Step 2: Consider other companies you admire and would want to emulate (not imitate).

Step 3: This is a tough one. Assume your company went out of business. In retrospect, what would you want it to be known for? What legacy would you'd like the company to leave?

Step 4: Now that you've primed the pump, it's time to ask, "What are the goals of your company that matter most?" These goals naturally emerge from what you value the most.

Step 5: Assemble these valued goals into an overall company purpose. This is where you stop and ask yourself, "Does this purpose transcend revenue?" Make sure the suit fits - your purpose can be aspirational but it must be authentic.

Step 6: Wear the suit. Make sure everyone in the organization understands the purpose. If the purpose doesn't fit, change it until it does.

I find it interesting that so many people living purposeful lives, like Bupa's CEO Stuart Fletcher, have seen the grim reaper up close and personal. Two thousand years ago, the Stoic philosopher Seneca said that "The life we receive is not short, but we make it so, nor do we have any lack of it, but are wasteful of it." Stuart understands the absurdity of being the richest person in the cemetery. He understands the importance of leaving a positive legacy. Do you?

Join me at the May 12-13 Positive Business Conference at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business where we will explore how to live and work with purpose. Together, with leading practitioners and scholars, we will learn how to create the fuel to sustain our commitment to Positive Business.

Vic Strecher is a behavioral scientist, professor, and Director of Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan's School of Public Health. He is also founder and President of JOOL Health, a digital health solution company that integrates the science of purpose in life, advanced smartphone and biometric technology, and big data analytics to improve well-being, helping users become better researchers of themselves as they develop, and align daily with, their purpose in life.
Drinking water image by imanhakim, Shutterstock

By Will Sarni

Lead in drinking water is in the news -- I'll get to what that has to do with the White House shortly.

It is currently estimated that the cost to replace lead-lined pipes in the U.S. is $40 billion, according to a Global Water Intelligence report from last year. Couple that with the forthcoming revisions to the Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), expected in 2017, which has resulted in increased focus on not just the potential for lead in drinking water but the need for increased investment in U.S. water infrastructure.

Proposed LCR changes include increased record keeping by utilities to document that they are following EPA guidance on best use practices for corrosion control treatment to prevent the leaching of lead from the pipes, plus a requirement for more proactive lead service line replacement programs if lead concentrations are too high.

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The impact of the proposed LCR and the recent news about lead in drinking water in the U.S. is difficult to predict. However, with increased attention on access to safe drinking water, we may have an opportunity to catalyze action to develop innovative water sector funding and technologies.

Perhaps the time has come for technologies such as in-situ water pipe repairs, real time water quality monitoring and point of use treatment to be adopted at scale.

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The bigger question is, "Are we having the Love Canal moment of our time?" Love Canal was not that long ago and was instrumental, along with Times Beach, Missouri, for the passing of the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA).

CERCLA is commonly referred to as "Superfund" because of the fund established by the act to help the clean-up of toxic pollution in residential locations such as Love Canal. CERCLA triggered investment in investigation and remediation technologies, along with accelerating the growth of the environmental consulting industry.

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There is no shortage of technology opportunities to address the needs of our aging water infrastructure. The U.S. depends on a network of underground pipes, many of which are reaching, or have exceeded, the end of their useful life.

The number of water main breaks across the country, from Syracuse to Los Angeles, is staggering: 240,000 per year, according to one estimate. The direct cost of these leaks is about $2.6 billion per year, and the total cost to the economy is not limited to the cost of the lost water.

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The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates that (PDF), while the cumulative cost to households from degrading water/wastewater infrastructure will add up to $59 billion (in 2010 dollars)between 2013 and 2020, the cost to business will be more than double that, at $147 billion.

Luckily, that's where the White House "moonshot" comes in.

Shooting higher

In December, the White House announced a moonshot for water. The Obama administration's new strategy aimed to increase use of efficient water reuse technologies and invest in breakthrough research and development to reduce the price and energy costs of new water supply technologies such as desalination.

The effort formally launched this week at White House event timed to coincide with the United Nations World Water Day. This is part of the administration's goals to increase awareness and action in: securing an adequate future water supply for the U.S.; addressing mechanisms to fund the infrastructure investment required; encouraging conservation and efficiency; and the use of data in decision making.

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Couple this with the 2017 budget request to Congress, which includes $260 million for new funding in water technology. Within that lies a $25 million proposal for the Department of Energy to establish a desalination hub focus on reducing the cost, energy requirements and emissions from desalination, plus $88 million for the National Science Foundation to support water research.

All of these highlight the strategic value of water to the U.S. economy for development, business growth and well-being. If you like safe drinking water, we will have to make investments to pay for it. Regardless where you live, water is essential to life and it requires investment which will drive innovation in technologies and funding.
Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, speaks during an event at Stanford University in Stanford, California, U.S., on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. In the wake of a series of deadly terrorist attacks in Brussels on Tuesday, the U.S. presidential front-runners clashed over interrogation techniques and whether to stop foreign Muslims from entering the country. 'Our country's most experienced and bravest military leaders will tell you that torture is not effective,' said Clinton. Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images

With Bernie Sanders now slightly ahead of Clinton nationally in the latest Bloomberg poll, it's time to reevaluate the meaning of pragmatism. Hillary Clinton might be ahead of Bernie Sanders in delegates, but Vermont's Senator has a monopoly on political momentum. Sadly, his opponent has a monopoly on controversy, and will face FBI interviews in the near future. A Los Angeles Times article titled Clinton email probe enters new phase as FBI interviews loom highlights why Clinton's campaign is stuck in political quicksand:

Federal prosecutors investigating the possible mishandling of classified materials on Hillary Clinton's private email server have begun the process of setting up formal interviews with some of her longtime and closest aides, according to two people familiar with the probe, an indication that the inquiry is moving into its final phases. Prosecutors also are expected to seek an interview with Clinton herself, though the timing remains unclear.

Yes, federal prosecutors will interview Hillary Clinton, in addition to her close associates.

At what point will establishment Democrats admit this fiasco is horrible for a general election?



When federal prosecutors are interviewing your candidate for president, even Donald Trump has a good chance at the White House.

Furthermore, former U.S. attorney general Michael Mukasey believes A Criminal Charge is Justified. Former Obama intelligence official Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn says that "If it were me, I would have been out the door and probably in jail." Former NSA director Michael Hayden called Clinton's email setup "stupid and dangerous." Even Edward Snowden, the antithesis of America's intelligence community in many ways, says it's "ridiculous" to think Clinton's emails were secure.

It's time for Democrats to deal with reality, not just allegiance to a political icon, and rally around the only candidate not linked to an FBI investigation, and other controversies. With recent victories and future wins ahead, Bernie Sanders has all the political momentum heading towards Election Day. Most importantly, Bernie Sanders is the only leading candidate with positive favorability ratings in 2016.

Hillary Clinton has negative favorability ratings in ten national polls. When people forget about Trump's rallies, and the billionaire pivots to his former identity as a Democrat ("I probably identify more as a Democrat"), then the Clinton campaign is in big trouble.

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In terms of these favorability polls, Hillary Clinton holds negative ratings by an over 10-point margin in 9 of these polls.



The fact that in 9 out of 10 national polls, Clinton is viewed in a negative manner by an over 10-point margin should worry anyone fearing Trump, or a Republican White House.

Clinton is even viewed unfavorably by a 21-point margin in a March CBS/Times poll. Democrats can't run a winning presidential campaign with the slogan, "We'll save you from Trump with a person who's less despised."

Furthermore, the Clinton campaign won't tell you that nationally, 64% of women find Hillary Clinton "not honest and trustworthy." Young feminists are choosing Bernie Sanders over potentially the first female president and 61.4% of women ages 18-29 prefer Bernie Sanders over Clinton.

In terms of the future of the Democratic Party, NPR writes "A recent Quinnipiac poll found that Sanders bests Clinton among 18- to 44-year-olds, 78 percent to 21 percent." Because of this energy and enthusiasm, Bernie Sanders has raised more money than Clinton in February.

When Jann S. Wenner of Rolling Stone endorsed Hillary Clinton, Mr. Wenner wrote "Clinton is far more likely to win the general election than Sanders." First, this statement is undermined by the fact Real Clear Politics shows Bernie Sanders defeating Donald Trump by 17.5 points in an average of national polls. In contrast, the "far more likely to win" Hillary Clinton beats Trump by 11.2 points, and this margin was less than 4 points several months ago, before Trump's violent rallies.

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Bernie Sanders hasn't only "destroyed" Donald Trump by a wider margin since last December, he's performed better against Trump in national polls since last October. I wrote a piece on October 21, 2015 titled Bernie Sanders Defeats Trump By a Wider Margin Than Clinton in a General Election. From last October until today, Bernie Sanders has consistently outperformed Clinton in matchups against Donald Trump.

Also, nothing in the Rolling Stone piece endorsing Clinton mentions the ongoing FBI investigation. The Christian Science Monitor clearly states the nature of the FBI's investigation, stating "The FBI is indeed conducting a criminal investigation into the possible mishandling of classified information on the private email server Clinton used for State Department communications."

Yes, Hillary supporters, "The FBI is indeed conducting a criminal investigation."

Like The Christian Science Monitor, The Washington Post has clearly stated the nature of the FBI's investigation and in early March wrote that "The Justice Department has granted immunity to a former State Department staffer, who worked on Hillary Clinton's private email server, as part of a criminal investigation into the possible mishandling of classified information, according to a senior law enforcement official."

You've read the words correctly, and the FBI investigation is a "criminal investigation."

Say it again, "criminal investigation."

Even the best defense of Clinton's email fiasco, a piece by Ruth Marcus titled Why Hillary Clinton is unlikely to be indicted over her private email server, states "Lucky for her, political idiocy is not criminal."

This too, makes for an interesting campaign slogan.

However, "political idiocy" is indeed criminal, when there's intent and motive involved in the idiotic behavior. The example given my Duke Law Journal regarding intent and motive states "As far as the criminal law is concerned, Donny intended and attempted to kill a human being; his motive for doing so is simply not relevant."

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Hillary Clinton might have been motivated by convenience, but she intended to circumvent government networks, and this intentional act resulted in 22 "Top Secret" emails on a private server.

Furthermore, everyone knows that convenience wasn't the only reason Clinton had the private server. In addition, the FBI isn't spending over one year investigating with 100 agents to give Hillary Clinton a parking ticket.

I explain in this YouTube segment why Hillary Clinton will likely face FBI indictments. I also state in a recent CNN International appearance with John Vause that Clinton indeed faces the possibility of indictment from the FBI investigation.

In addition to the political momentum favoring Bernie Sanders, Vermont's Senator doesn't have to worry about a cover-up. Like Watergate, Hillary Clinton's political future rests upon the actions of others. A recent Reuters article describes the precarious state of Clinton's campaign in a piece titled Role of tech who set up Clinton's server unknown to bosses at State:

Wisecarver and Swart, who had worked in the department for decades, were soon swapping emails expressing confusion and surprise that a political appointee, a so-called Schedule C employee who is more commonly hired to work in the secretary of state's offices, should be joining the IT department's ranks... The department told Reuters that Pagliano and Kennedy had little contact, and that Kennedy was unaware of the server or his subordinate's role in running it. Nor did Wisecarver, Pagliano's day-to-day boss, or Swart know, according to the former colleague, who said the IT office should have been informed.

Like Watergate, it's the cover-up that dooms politicians, not necessarily the original act linked to unethical behavior.

Bryan Pagliano is just one of many people involved with the FBI's investigation. Future indictments are likely, considering the scope of the FBI's investigation and the bewilderment of top intelligence officials. With recent wins, and future wins on the horizon, political momentum is clearly on the side of Vermont's Senator. It's not pragmatic or realistic to champion Clinton, knowing that Bernie Sanders defeats Trump by a wider margin, without an FBI investigation, and with the highest favorability ratings of any candidate in 2016. I explain in another interview on CNN International with John Vause that voters should choose Bernie Sanders, if indeed they fear Donald Trump.
A gay man is silhoutted on a gay rainbow flag during a demonstration for gay rights in Hanoi, Vietnam, November 24, 2015. 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. Picture taken November 24, 2015. REUTERS/Kham

My Morocco,

Once again, I am writing you a letter. I wish I could tell you that I love you, or thank you, or tell you that I'm proud of you. But it seems that you're better at hurting us than at making us proud.

My Morocco, I woke up this morning full of horror. Once again, your people, your children, have succeeded at generating fear. We are overcome with despair, thinking of all the ways you have changed. Has the sun of kindness, generosity and humanity left your sky? Is this country, which claims to be democratic, succumbing to the very strand of hate that is celebrated by ISIS?

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Two men. Two citizens. Two human beings have been beaten, almost killed, under your roof. They were simply celebrating their love, at their home, behind closed doors, when a group of people decided to enforce the laws of a God they seem to know better than the rest of us. The two naked men found themselves dressed in blood. Their arms tried to deflect incoming blows. The two naked men found themselves smothered with insults before being thrown out on the street.

Is this the image you're trying to project? That of a barren, praying, begging country? What image are you offering the world with such behavior?

My Morocco, you are a parent to these people. You're responsible for them. If this is where we are today, then we are your victims. We can talk about the education that you give us, we can talk about the frustrations we have experienced at your hands. We can talk about a lot of things you've done in the past, the fruits of which we've tasted in recent years. But to what end?



Two men. Two citizens. Two human beings have been beaten, almost killed, under your roof.



In today's Morocco, you can't be different. It is too risky to be gay. We are not allowed to love. Today, we can't even feel safe at home. It's not just your streets anymore.

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Today two men were making love in the privacy of their home, when this terrorist pack decided to violate their love. Is it really that wrong, for two men, or two women to love each other? What are you trying to teach your citizens? Do you know that there is a significant number of gay Moroccans and that you can't deny their existence? Do you know that the Internet has opened our doors? We are no longer alone. Today, the gay community is waking up, it's free. It's afraid, it's forced to hide, but it's there, behind the screens. And it's frustrated because you have made it believe that it is living in sin. With your laws, with your education, and what you make your people believe.

Do you know the number of young boys who like other boys? Do you know the number of girls who like other girls? They are Moroccans, too. They are human beings. They are your children. They ensure the development of your land, your economy. They also consider themselves to be Moroccans -- even if that is sometimes difficult to do. They have walked your streets, reclaimed your Sahara. Perhaps, they have even chanted for "God, Morocco, and the King."

But how do you expect these young people to be honest, sincere? When "God" promises them hell? When their country promises to send them to prison? When the King does not repeal a law that criminalizes them? Give me a reason to say, "I am proud to be Moroccan." Give me a reason to tell people: "You must visit my country." How can I speak of your beauty without appearing hypocritical? Am I really in love with you, really proud of you, or am I stuck in a nostalgia for my childhood home? For a country that I saw that through the carefree eyes of a child?

It's been three years since I left you. From afar, my affection towards you grew stronger. My love for you has become more sincere. My hatred towards you has subsided. My fear of you has faded. But do you know why? Because I've had the chance to see something else. To live something else. Breathe a different air. Sing new tunes. Dream. Today, I can dream of simple things, like love: To be loved, without fear. Fear that I would become a topic of conversation, that people would judge me, or send me to jail. Yet I have never done anything wrong. I've paid my taxes, helped others, cleaned your streets, encouraged tourism, and chanted for your sovereignty.



In today's Morocco, you can't be different. It is too risky to be gay. We are not allowed to love. Today, we can't even feel safe at home.



I am a Moroccan, just like everyone else. But I have always been, and still am, treated as a second-class citizen. I am worth nothing, and I have no rights.

Those two men are the same as me. They can't even be happy behind closed doors. They have been humiliated and abused. Everyone will know who they are. What should they do now? Because they will almost certainly go to jail -- if not literally, then at least figuratively. They will be stuck in a society that will judge them, spy on them, and threaten them.

What can they do? Fight a society that hates them? Commit suicide because they are worth nothing? Leave? Is this what you want? For all those who are discriminated against to leave your land? In that case, you would be left all alone: We are all your victims. That's why we attack the weakest among us. That's why gay people are easy prey -- because if they speak up, complain, or step out of line, they risk going to jail.

There is also your government which, instead of focusing on the real issues, the real problems, opts for the easy way out. Instead of providing education, health and protection for its people, the government is closing hookah bars.

It is also your associations' mistake. They claim to defend human rights, but instead of doing their job, they pick easy battles. They looking for money from both the right and the left, and they avoid taboos, seeking only benefits, travel, and ephemeral recognition. They stroke your ego and do nothing.

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But above all, it is the mistake of Moroccan gays, who are still hiding, and who prefer to live in the dark, out of fear. They hide instead of trying to prove that there is a significant gay community, and that being gay is not a disease, or a sin, or an oddity.

As long as Moroccan gays, from the youngest to those in the highest echelons of society, remain hidden, the cases of Beni Mellal, Fez, Tetouan, Lksar Lekbir, Casablanca, Sale and the other victims of homophobia will stand out as exceptions.

The Moroccan LGBT community needs to stop justifying this fear. It must speak up instead of hiding. Our society will never change if it continues to believe this community doesn't exist.

You have to earn rights and freedom. They don't just appear. The others won't fight for our rights if we don't mobilize ourselves. Our rights and freedoms are not guaranteed. And they never will be. And if, my Morocco, your gays and lesbians don't put their testicles and ovaries on the table, if they continue to justify the unjustifiable, to hid behind the characters the society thinks they are, they will continue to be beaten and abused.

I think, my Morocco, that you're not solely to blame. Gay people need to move if they want change. They must find a way. Nothing changes until you decide to change it. Minorities who consider themselves as victims will continue to be treated as such. Maybe things will change. But until that happens, I will cease to be surprised when such attacks happen.

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My Morocco,

I will not blame you. I will continue to love you as one loves his parents, despite their faults. But I love you from afar. And this way, we will both be happy.
The West is in denial by refusing to acknowledge the obvious. There's no quick fix for defeating terrorism. The terrorism we see today is the descendant of many generations of intertwined missteps. The fallout has been global. Simplistic, partial and quick fixes could make matters worse and render a solution ever more elusive.

After the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in 1918, the missteps are too many to list here but range from shortsighted colonization of the Middle East and North Africa, support for authoritarian rulers in the Middle East and to numerous armed conflicts and wars. The fallout is seen everywhere. There are massive human displacements, refugees and immigration from Syria and Iraq; the emergence of ISIS on the global radar and its horrific atrocities against Western interests and its even more devastating, though less advertised, atrocities against Muslims; a Europe overwhelmed by refugees and threatened with instability; a host of failed Muslim countries with hundreds of millions of disenfranchised masses with no decent jobs and prospect for better futures; and Western countries increasingly predisposed to erecting higher and higher walls to keep out Muslims and sending drones to foreign lands to kill terrorists where they live, but ignoring the reality that the West's actions are providing the foreign training ground for their own citizens to become terrorists.

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Terrorism has become a global phenomenon. It is evident the world over -- in Muslim countries where hundreds of millions of oppressed Muslim masses live and in Western ghettos where Muslims spend their lives going from sub-par schools to menial jobs that afford no hope for better futures. It is under these conditions, in Muslim and non-Muslim societies, where terrorists find their disciples and recruits--bitter young men and women in search of a belonging with a glimmer of hope. Terrorists come with their false representations of Islam to these young men and women who have little or no understanding of the message of Islam (from the Holy Quran and its interpretation by the Prophet Mohammad) and fill the void that exists in oppressed Muslim countries (supported by Western interests) and in segregated Western ghettos (in nations terrified of Islam).

Terrorism has been globalized in part by technology and access to real time news. When Buckingham Palace flies the Union Jack at half-mast in sympathy for a deceased Saudi King, Muslims around the world immediately note the duplicity of sanctimonious British pronouncements--championing the quest for freedom and democratic rule while supporting oppressive rule in Saudi Arabia for business interests.

When President Obama speaks openly to the Cuban people about American values of freedom of expression in Havana, Muslims wonder if he will do the same on his upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia to a summit with the heads of state of the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Countries)? If he does not, he will generate hundreds, if not thousands, of recruits for terrorists. An important fallout of globalization is that duplicity has become harder to cover up. The U.S. is unpopular in the land of its allies--the GCC, other Arab countries and Turkey--and popular in the land of its enemy, Iran! The reason is simple. The U.S. supports Arab dictators but has opposed Iran's oppressive theocracy. The Muslim masses have taken note.

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Terrorism is globalizing at breakneck speed with the unrecognized danger that it may even move to non-Muslim communities--anyone facing racism, limited opportunities or unrealized dreams can cast a wide net, find recruits to his or her cause and demand a ransom. But all of this and its urgent ramifications have largely failed to register on Western radars.

It will take thoughtful, longsighted and sustained policies and initiatives on a global level and on many fronts to arrest Muslim terrorism and begin a turnaround. Some foundational pillars should be emphasized.

The process, planning and implementation must be initiated at the global level. Terrorists can recruit and operate anywhere. Moreover, if the fight is left to a few countries they may focus on their own selfish interests and ignore the interests of the rest of the world. Political interference should be minimized as politicians invariably care about the next election cycle and dictators would rather fight to the bitter end than concede anything.

The planning for this initiative should be entrusted to a committee comprised of a small number of thoughtful men and women created under the auspices of the United Nations. The committee should be given the charge of developing a White Paper on the dimensions and elements of a global program (with a schedule) to defeat terrorism. To be effective the committee should be afforded total autonomy to think comprehensively out of the box-- to come up with policy recommendations for individual countries, groups of countries, organizations, institutions, affiliations and religious groups covering any and all areas of activity such as governance, freedom of expression and worship, freedom of the press, education and job opportunities, sharing of intelligence information, refugee policies, treatment of religious minorities, etc.--to truly act at a global level with no limitations.

The resulting White Paper should then be taken up internationally to devise a comprehensive plan and implementation schedule that would address sensitive issues of national sovereignty and sanctions on countries that fail to support the program.

Finally, let's emphasize the two essential pillars for eradicating terrorism--religion and urgent reform in Muslim countries. Religion is central to a comprehensive solution. Muslims should be encouraged to take back their religion from corrupt rulers, clerics and Jihadists who have their personal agenda and propagate a false representation of Islam. Muslims must be encouraged to discuss Quranic teachings centered on the oneness of humanity, freedom and on social and economic justice. The discussion of the philosophical foundation of Islam is necessary for Muslims to establish the institutions envisaged in Islam, institutions that are designed to enhance economic, social and political justice and progress. The campaign to eradicate terrorism is more about spreading Islamic teachings of Unity and Justice to fill the space that is being increasingly occupied by terrorists than about dropping bombs on terrorist targets.

The other major pillar is long overdue reforms. Muslim countries must be encouraged, no coerced, to embrace political, social and economic reforms that support a future that includes freedom, representative government and economic opportunities for all people.
By Eleanor Acer, Senior Director, Refugee Protection



Sometimes it only takes the suffering of one to drive home the pain of thousands. Last week I woke up to the story of Mohammed Hassan (a pseudonym), a one year-old boy, a refugee, who died due to heart complications in a refugee camp in Jordan. He and his family were waiting in the pipeline to be resettled in the United States -- where lifesaving medical treatments may have made a difference for Mohammed and his family.



Earlier this year, I traveled to Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey to witness the refugee crisis firsthand. I learned how bottlenecks, backlogs, and delays in the U.S. resettlement process were affecting refugees and front-line refugee hosting states. And I heard how families like the Hassans have been losing hope as they wait, and wait, for the U.S. resettlement process to move forward. Some families, after struggling to survive for years in exile, gave up waiting and decided to embark on dangerous trips to Europe to try to secure protection.



For refugees facing imminent risks or health crises, the delays and backlogs that plague the already slow U.S. resettlement process can lead to tragedy. The lack of sufficient U.S. capacity to address emergency cases like Mohammed's leaves these refugees facing grave risks.



Last September, Secretary of State John Kerry committed the United States to accepting "at least" 10,000 Syrian refugees this fiscal year. This number falls far short of U.S. capacity to resettle, its responsibilities to both the vulnerable refugees in need of protection, and our overwhelmed partners hosting them. It also does not reflect strong leadership, particularly from a country that has historically led on refugee resettlement. But nearly halfway through the fiscal year, the U.S. government has not even reached 10 percent of this modest goal.



Real lives are on the line--lives like Mohammed's.



Backlogs and bottlenecks in the refugee resettlement program undermine the United States' ability to not only meet its humanitarian commitments, but also undermine U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives. Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey are hosting the vast majority of the 4.8 million Syrian refugees that have fled their country. These large numbers are straining key infrastructures of these countries, and resettlement and aid are both necessary for supporting the stability of these states and, in turn, the region more broadly.



Ryan Crocker, former ambassador to Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and several other countries, writes: "A bold initiative--one that includes significant increases in resettlement and aid--will advance U.S. national security by alleviating the strains on refugee-hosting states and safeguarding the stability of a region that is home to key U.S. allies." Furthermore, "Addressing backlogs would not undermine security; in fact it would strengthen the effectiveness of U.S. processing."



Crocker speaks from experience under both Democratic and Republican administrations, and details his perspective in the foreword to Human Rights First's report, "The Syrian Refugee Crisis and the Need for U.S. Leadership."



Unfortunately, some members of Congress have reacted to the recent terror attacks in Western countries with fear and moves to block refugee resettlement. The most recent, proposed by Representatives Labrador and Goodlatte in the House, was approved at the committee level this month.



But such efforts are misguided and national security experts point out that they actually fuel the ISIS narrative. Refugees are the most thoroughly vetted population to enter the United States. And as Michael Chertoff, former Secretary of Homeland Security under George W. Bush, told the Wall Street Journal, resettling Syrian refugees "allows us to truthfully say that we're not hypocrites or bigoted against Muslims or people from other cultures.... You don't want to play into the narrative of the bad guy. That's giving propaganda to the enemy."



The United States can clear the backlogs and bottlenecks besetting the refugee resettlement program without compromising security by devoting more resources and staff to the process. Meeting the administration's goal to resettle 10,000 Syrian refugees this year is the bare minimum the U.S. government should do. Failing to meet even this modest goal would be an embarrassment--and counterproductive from a national security perspective.



We can't know for sure whether Mohammed Hassan would have survived if he made it to the United States for surgery. But we do know his death is a tragedy no family should have to endure. Many more families like his face uncertainty and dangers while waiting to be resettled. Many of them could be spared from suffering if the United States meets its objectives and leads a more robust resettlement initiative in the future.
Why Trump? It is the question of this presidential cycle. A long, reported piece by Clare Malone at Five Thirty Eight set out to explore "what's happening in America" and why so many people are supporting Donald Trump. It's not about racial resentment -- at least that's what Trump supporters will tell you.

According to David Merritt, managing director of Frank Luntz's polling and messaging outfit Luntz Global, Trump voters "were actually surprised" by such a suggestion. "They said, 'Why would you think we're racist because we want to protect America? When Muslim terrorists want to come into America and blow up our buildings and kill us, why is keeping them out racist?'" Why, indeed.

It's easy enough to assert that white racism and white racial resentment stand at the core of Trumpism. It appeared obvious from the start, when Trump launched his campaign by painting Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug dealers. But is that assertion truly accurate? Now that we've got data on Trump supporters, the verdict is in.

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The answer: Hell, yes.

American National Election Studies conducted a survey in late January. The Monkey Cage (hosted at the Washington Post) analyzed at the data. To summarize, among those white Republicans and "pure" independents surveyed, there was a clear correlation between a stated intention to vote for Trump and the following:

1) Placing a great deal of importance on having a white racial identity -- almost 60% of those who do so support Trump versus a bit over 20% of those who don't. 2) Believing that discrimination against whites is a widespread, serious problem -- 60% of those who believe this support Trump compared to barely 20% of those who don't. 3) Stating that "many whites are unable to find a job because employers are hiring minorities instead" -- over 60% of those who say so support Trump versus only 10% of those who don't. 4) Calling for whites to work together to change laws that are unfair to whites -- again, over 60% who agree with such a call support Trump compared to just over 20% of those who don't.



If you're a rightward-leaning white American, whether or not you harbor racial resentment is a powerful predictor of whether you support Donald Trump. Or, to put it more simply, Trump attracts white racists.

The aforementioned article by Clare Malone cited another piece of data -- a poll of likely Republican voters done from December 13, 2015 through January 6, 2016, by the RAND Corporation. RAND reported that 60.1 percent of respondents who expressed strong agreement with the assessment that "immigrants threaten American customs and values" were supporting Trump, and also found that the stronger the agreement with that statement, the more likely one was to be a Trump supporter.

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It is important to note that anxiety about America's cultural and national identity in and of itself does not mean one is likely to support Trump. For years, the College Board/National Journal Next America Poll has been asking respondents whether: "The growing number of newcomers from other countries are a threat to traditional American customs and values." In 2013, 25 percent of Asians agreed, as did 31 percent of Latinos. One in three black people agreed (interestingly, that number is down from 47 percent in 2012 and 62 percent in 2009; perhaps the shift has something to do with Republicans increasingly expressing anti-immigrant sentiments while also treating a black president they way they have). For whites, the number was 47 percent (45 percent of whites agreed in 2012, but 52 percent did so in 2009, so even there we see slight progress).

The point is that even though somewhere around 30 percent of non-whites feel this way, we can extrapolate that very, very few of them actually support Trump -- given that his support is overwhelmingly white, as are Republican primary voters in general.

We can add to this the real economic effects on the white middle and working classes in recent decades, during which most of the economic gains in this country have flowed to those at the very top. Were those beneficiaries white? Overwhelmingly so. But that fact does little for a laid-off white coal miner in Appalachia. According to a recent New York Times/CBS News poll, significantly fewer white Democrats perceive the country's overall economic situation positively than do African American Democrats, and an NYT/CBS poll from last December likewise found significantly fewer white than black Democrats saying that their own family's economic situation had improved compared to two years earlier.

While these were polls of Democrats, it stands to reason that -- after accounting for income -- white Republicans would feel as bad or worse about the economy, given their feelings toward the sitting president. A September 2014 NYT/CBS poll, for example, found that 43 percent of Democrats felt the economy had improved in the previous year, compared to 20 percent of independents and 8 percent of Republicans.

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In addition to economic statistics and the perceptions thereof, we see what's happening with white Americans in the increased death rates among middle-aged whites in recent years, in particular those toward the bottom of the economic ladder. The rising death rate is being caused disproportionately by suicide and substance abuse (i.e., both alcohol-induced liver disease and drug overdoses). Talk about increasing disillusionment among whites.

Trumpism draws on a toxic cocktail consisting of white racial resentment, white cultural anxiety, and just general white despair. He offers an antidote to all these with his talk of making America great again. He evokes a better time -- saying he can bring back American greatness but, using coded language, making clear he's also talking about, as Jamelle Bouie put it, "restor[ing] the racial hierarchy upended by Barack Obama."

There's a reason why white supremacist organizations and people expressing concern about "white genocide" are on board with Trump. Looking at Twitter, we can see strong social media connections -- flowing in both directions -- between the Trump campaign and promoters of the white genocide theme. This one retweet brings together the support of white genocide people for Trump and the white restoration Bouie was talking about in one perfect image.

Donald Trump is far from the first person to speak the language of white resentment and anxiety. The night Barack Obama was re-elected in 2012, Bill O'Reilly declared:

Traditional America as we knew it is gone. Ward, June, Wally and the Beav, outta here. The white establishment is now the minority.

O'Reilly wasn't trying to reach all of us. If you had no idea who the people he mentioned are, then he probably wasn't trying to reach you. In a 2013 article for In These Times (later republished at Daily Kos), I defined "culturally anxious whites" as a group that "includes anyone who heard O'Reilly's statement and thought, at least to some degree, 'He's right, and that's a problem for us and for America.'"
There are two sides to every coin when it comes to holidays in the West. Let's take Christmas and Easter as examples.

Christmas for the religious holiday is centered around Jesus and for secular society, Christmas is centered on Santa. The secular Easter holiday is centered on the Easter bunny on its eggs and for the religious it is Jesus' resurrection. There are two reasons in my opinion why most people don't know why Easter eggs and bunnies are involved with the Christian Easter holiday?

Reason Number One: Easter has secularized for the sake of money.

Easter is not about a bunny. Easter is about the lamb; crucified and resurrected. Granted, the word Easter does not show up in the bible but is taken from Eastre, an Anglo-Saxon fertility goddess of Spring. Eastre had a rabbit as a companion which explains the incorporation of Easter bunnies and egg hunts during Easter Sunday celebrations. Now, fast forward 2 thousand years (give or take a century).

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The first reason religious holidays have quickly become secularized to the point that many, if not most people outside of the church do not know why is for profit. Easter eggs and bunnies are associated with Easter because corporations (candy manufacturers mostly) have secularized Easter for the sake of money.

To me, I have no problem with this celebration but when it overshadows the biblical meaning of Easter and the media and schools put Eastre above Easter there seems to be a problem. But the over secularization of Easter falls directly in the hands of corporations with their Easter egg chocolates, chocolate Easter chicks, and the Easter candy in general (my personal favorite are Peeps).

The word 'Easter' has been quietly ditched from British chocolate eggs, according to religious campaigners.

There has been a wave of political correctness by many candy manufacturers Cadbury's and Nestle in the last few years to remove the word "Easter" and all religious connections from their products. The Bishop of Salisbury, The Rt. Revd Nicholas Holtam, are determined to restore the traditional meaning of the Easter story. He goes on to say "It is interesting that there seems to be a real resistance to removing the word Easter from these gifts.

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Reason Number Two: The Decline of Religion in the West

The second reason as to why Easter eggs and bunnies are involved with the Christian Easter holiday is because of the decline of people going to church. In an article by The Spectator, 2067: The end of British Christianity,

The Church of England is declining faster than other denominations; if it carries on shrinking at the rate suggested by the latest British Social Attitudes survey, Anglicanism will disappear from Britain in 2033 [. . .] According to the British Social Attitudes surveys, their numbers fell from 40 per cent of the population in 1983 to 29 per cent in 2004 and 17 per cent last year.

While in America, which remains home to more Christians than any other country in the world, the percentage of adults who describe themselves as Christians "dropped by nearly eight percentage points in just seven years to about 71 percent" . . . at the same time, the share of those "who are not affiliated with a religion has jumped from 16 percent to about 23 percent" in the same time period according to a Pew Research Survey.

Even as their numbers decline, American Christians - like the U.S. population as a whole - are becoming more racially and ethnically diverse. The conclusions I've reached on the decline of religion isn't because there are more unbelievers (although this is partially true) but because of;

* Religiously unaffiliated Americans out number Catholics and Protestants

* American congregations are aging, and the unaffiliated are comparatively young and becoming more secular

* Religious intermarriage is on the rise

* U.S. census doesn't keep track of statistics on religion, so there are no official statistics on the religious makeup of the U.S. public

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Distribution of Christian population by region

* Americas: 804 million

* Europe: 566 million

* Sub-Saharan Africa: 516 million

* Asia-Pacific: 285 million

* Middle East-North Africa: 13 million
UNESCO designation shines global spotlight on unpolluted waters of Great Bear Lake

The evening sun reflects off the placid waters of Great Bear Lake, Northwest Territories.

For generations, the Sahtugot'ine Dene people in northern Canada have told a story about the "water heart," a power that connects all living things throughout their traditional territory. This heart beats deep within Great Bear Lake, a place as magnificent and untamed as its name suggests.

The largest unpolluted freshwater body in the world, Great Bear Lake straddles the Arctic Circle at the transition area between boreal forest and tundra. Its surface covers 7.7 million acres, making it the world's eighth-largest lake by area. At an average depth of 235 feet, Great Bear Lake also holds the largest mass of cold freshwater of any lake in the world.

Its waters and shores are home to healthy populations of grizzly bears, musk ox, barren-ground caribou, wolves, and a genetically diverse population of lake trout not found in other great freshwater lakes. Vulnerable species such as the surf scoter (a type of sea duck), boreal woodland caribou, rusty blackbird, and short-eared owl find refuge in the region. The watershed includes three distinct ecozones: the taiga shield, taiga plains, and southern Arctic. Native flora range from black spruce and tamarack in forested areas to sphagnum moss in wetlands.

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By any measure, the lake and its surrounding watershed is one of the last, best expanses of pristine wilderness on Earth.

Now, that value has been formally recognized: On March 19, UNESCO added the Great Bear Lake watershed to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

The creation of the 23-million-acre Tsa Tue International Biosphere Reserve is cause for celebration among the Sahtugot'ine Dene, who pursued the UNESCO designation in hopes of expanding public awareness--regionally and internationally--of the watershed's ecological importance.

The lakeshore hosts just one permanent human settlement: the 600-person Sahtugot'ine Dene community of Delne. The community is accessible year-round only by air. A limited-season ice road connects Delne to other communities in the Northwest Territories for about three months in winter; and in summer, visitors can reach it by boat. The only signs of industrial development along the lake are the aging remnants of a few long-shuttered mines.

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While no mining has occurred for decades, the Great Bear Lake watershed is rich in natural resources, harboring deposits of coal, diamonds, iron, and copper--and possibly oil and gas reserves. Delne's elders are acutely aware that industrial activity could return, and they want to ensure that, if it does, development will be sustainable and not harm the environment.

I recently visited Great Bear Lake as part of an international boreal conservation campaign delegation, which traveled there to learn from Delne's elders and resource management leaders about their aspirations for conservation of the area--and to explore the potential for collaborating on that protection. Thanks to its low water temperature, relatively small drainage basin, and lack of development, the lake is so clear that, in some places, the bottom is visible almost 100 feet from the surface.

Elders and other community leaders have long sought to ensure the area's ecological and cultural integrity, often working in partnership with other First Nations, the government of the Northwest Territories, and the Canadian federal government. The community has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to conservation and the creation of protected areas in land claims agreements and land-use plans.

The Sahtugot'ine Dene played a central role, for example, in developing the Great Bear Lake Watershed Management Plan and the Sahtu Land Use Plan, a larger regional plan. The plans prohibit development in core protected areas, create buffer zones where limited development can occur, and allow development elsewhere as long as it proceeds in a manner that does not threaten the watershed's ecological health.

Several sacred and ecologically sensitive areas within the Great Bear Lake watershed, including the 1.37 million-acre Saoyu-ehdacho National Historic Site, are already protected.

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The Great Bear Lake watershed is the first UNESCO world biosphere reserve in northern Canada, fulfilling the requirement that any designated site "promote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans and the biosphere." UNESCO chooses the reserves to showcase places where conservation and sustainable economic development can coexist, and where local communities take the lead on land-use decisions.

In a 2015 letter supporting Great Bear Lake's nomination, The Pew Charitable Trusts said the watershed's designation as a world biosphere reserve "would affirm the community's stewardship of a globally significant water source in keeping with local ecological, cultural, and spiritual values, and facilitate Delne's central role in managing responsible economic development in the region."

Dene elders "see the many rivers, streams, and creeks that flow into and out of [Great Bear Lake] as fulfilling the same functions as the veins, capillaries, and arteries in the bodies of all creatures," according to the Great Bear Lake Watershed Management Plan, which outlines the conservation ethic that guides the people of Deline.

"The elders assert that the health of people and the land are directly connected--and that the people are not in reality separate from the land and other creatures," according to the watershed plan. "They want to protect it so that it can be used by the present generation and by future generations."

By designating the Great Bear Lake watershed as a world biosphere reserve, UNESCO is shining a global spotlight on an important model for local, indigenous-led management. The designation will help both the Sahtugot'ine Dene and the government of the Northwest Territories plan a future that ensures sound management of natural resources and the protection of areas of enormous environmental and spiritual value.

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By Jennifer Sherwood and Christina Chandra

Just as the world's attention shifted from the worst outbreak of Ebola in history to the rapidly emerging Zika epidemic, another infectious disease silently claimed its place as the world's deadliest: Tuberculosis (TB).

Last year, TB surpassed HIV as the number one infectious killer in the world. In 2014, there were 9.6 million new TB cases and 1.5 million deaths caused by TB. Half a million were diagnosed with multidrug-resistant TB, of which about 10% had extensive drug resistance -- for which even the most potent drugs are ineffective. One need look no further than the global TB pandemic to be reminded of how a curable disease can continue to rage in a climate of feeble health systems and lack of political prioritization.

For people living with HIV, the story is worse. TB is the leading cause of death for people with HIV, accounting for a third of all AIDS-related deaths. The chance of developing TB is also about 30 times higher for people living with HIV than those without. When a major outbreak of multidrug-resistant TB hit a rural South African town in 2005, all of those who developed extensively drug-resistant TB were also living with HIV, complicating treatment and lowering the probability of successful cure. HIV and TB remain inextricably linked.

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All of this is not to say that the fight against TB and HIV-TB co-infection has been unsuccessful. Since 1990, TB deaths have fallen by 47%, and between 2000 and 2014, 43 million TB patients were saved due to effective diagnosis and treatment. In 2015, the Millennium Development Goal to halve the prevalence of TB disease and deaths between 1990 and 2015 was met. Collaboration between the HIV and TB communities has led to multiple innovations in research and therapeutics to understand drug interactions and develop treatment guides for HIV-TB co-infected patients. This partnership has been essential to the 34% reduction in TB-related deaths for people living with HIV observed since 2004.

Despite these efforts and notable progress, TB remains on the margins of public awareness and political concern. Advocates applauded the Obama Administration for putting forth a National Action Plan for Combating Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis in late 2015, but the Administration simultaneously proposed a $45 million cut to USAID TB programs. The lofty goals of the national plan - such as strengthening domestic and international capacity and accelerating research and development to combat multidrug-resistant TB -- cannot be met without sufficient financing.

Looking ahead, the global goals of eliminating TB and ending AIDS are ambitious. By 2020, both TB and HIV have global 90-90-90 targets. For TB, this means 90% of people on treatment, 90% of those most vulnerable to TB infection reached with services and 90% of patients successfully treated. For HIV, these targets mean 90% diagnosed, 90% on treatment and 90% virally suppressed. By 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals set a target of ending the TB and AIDS epidemics altogether. The obstacles to achieving these goals are similar for both diseases: weak health systems, underlying social determinants, lack of effective tools and unmet funding needs. To meet these challenges, diseases can no longer be viewed in silos. The world requires a systems approach to combatting diseases as opposed to singular disease interventions.

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In the words of World Bank President Dr. Jim Kim at USAID's World TB Day commemoration this month, "TB is not on my agenda." Rather, Dr. Kim proposed integrating TB interests into broader global goals, such as universal health coverage and global health security, is now key to global health advocacy. Despite the obstacles, Dr. Kim's words were hopeful, and HIV and TB advocates are optimistic that with the appropriate resources, they can overcome these barriers, and end the unnecessary suffering caused by HIV/AIDS and TB.

Last week we observed World TB Day with the theme "Unite to End TB." HIV/AIDS and TB researchers, scientists and advocates once came together to solve the riddles of co-infection. As a global health community, we now have another opportunity to unite around global goals to build better health systems and eliminate the most dangerous infectious diseases of our time. Beyond World TB Day, HIV/AIDS advocates can show solidarity with the fight against TB by working together to achieve common goals for a healthier, disease-free world.

Jennifer Sherwood is a Policy Associate at amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.
By Adele Charbonneau

Cities are both the victims and the causes of climate change. Urban centers are the key contributor to climate change as nodes of activities and a main source of greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, cities are also strongly affected by climate change. Over 90% of all urban areas are coastal, putting most of them at risk of flooding from rising sea levels and powerful storms. The role of developing cities is particularly important as they will host the future urban population yet their capacity for action is limited by their financial and capacity constraints. Learn from four cities in the Global South (Bogota, Lagos, Tehran and Surabaya) that have worked to meet the challenges of climate change.

The fight against the impact of climate change has been one of the top priorities for Bogota's administrators. According to Jorge Bela, Bogota is the only city in the region that included climate change mitigation in its general plan. The Plan de Ordenacion Territorial (general zoning plan) was heavily modified to take climate change into account. It primarily seeks to densify the city, banning new construction in the rural areas, and substantially increase the size of protected areas. Perhaps one of the most far-reaching projects is the Rio Bogota Environmental Recuperation and Flood Control Project, funded by the World Bank. The river banks are being enlarged to 40 meters and a buffer zone is being created, which can safely flood during periods of intense rain. The outgoing administration has also launched projects geared at preventing climate change. The expansion of dedicated bike lanes and the creation of improved paths for pedestrians are two examples of non-polluting commuting solutions.

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In Lagos, Peter Adeyeye talks about flooding, which has become a serious issue as many parts of the city are below sea level while sporadic rainfall and human activities have increased vulnerability. To address this challenge, the state government has been investing massively in the maintaining, upgrading, and rehabilitating of strategic road networks in the city under the Road Network Efficiency Improvement (RNEI). An example of rehabilitation work is the construction of 1,800 meters of drainage channels. The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the agency responsible for enforcing all environmental laws and policies, also began a public sensitization initiative focused on clearing of drains to prevent flooding in the city. Finally, the Lagos government developed a flood control master plan which aims to reduce flooding in Lagos from 40 percent to 20 percent by 2015 and eliminate all by 2025; however as of now the plan only exists on paper.

For Maryam Amiri, Tehran is associated with many environmental threats, one of the most dangerous challenges being earthquakes. This concern prompted the Tehran Municipality in 2005 to investigate deteriorated areas in Tehran. In that year, the Master Plan was approved and a special program was created to address this issue. A formal office was also established in each of these neighborhoods (about 50 neighborhoods in total) that would facilitate running programs through interaction with residents and attract their participation to renovate their homes. Financial incentives, such as mortgage loans, were considered to encourage residents to renovate their houses and make them more earthquake-resilient. But the efforts have been mainly to reduce the population density by creating more open spaces. However, the municipality's approach is not perfect. The additional density of houses is a violation of the Master Plan and maintains density at high levels, while poverty limits the loan potential.

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For the past few years, Surabaya has been getting ready to become a Green City in 2020. Widya Anggraini writes about the cooperation established in 2011 with the City of Kitakyushu in Japan and Kitakyushu Asian Center for Low Carbon in a program called the Low-carbon Program and Environmentally Sustainable City (ESC) Planning. This project intends to achieve four objectives: to encourage Surabaya city planning to develop low-carbon and environmentally friendly activities in the fields of energy, transportation, waste and water; to identify programs that can reduce greenhouse emissions and save energy costs in the short term; and programs that can limit emissions in the long-term; and to encourage the development of a data management system to measure the reduction of CO2 emissions and make a CO2 measurement methodology. The main challenge lies in the availability of resources and the behavior change of community members to be more energy efficient and environmentally conscious.

These global initiatives provide ideas on solutions available for cities to fight against climate change using public policies, financial incentives and international solidarity. Check out more of the discussion on climate change and cities on URB.im and contribute to the debate.
SPRINGTIME, how I love thee! The expanse of newly uncovered space in the environs that was previously cluttered with snow piles, snow suits and junk mail gifts a lift to my soul that makes it absolutely sing. When winter is here, I accept and comfort the natural inclination to hunker and cuddle, but when the ticket is punched for the seasonal shift, I greet the equinox warmly.

The shift from winter to spring elicits a great rise in electricity, so much so that I need to do my due diligence to keep grounded and not spin off into overwhelm of the projects that lay afoot. I remind myself to thankfully return to my practice in yoga that holds me steadfast, reminds me to breathe, and to embrace the energies of change with all the accompanying opportunities that are offered.

For instance, I have found great enjoyment in paring down my clothing over the last two years. We moved to our new home in 2013, just 5 days after Baby B was born, and the amount of STUFF we had, er -- I had, was impressive. Little by little, I have continued to whittle away the items that no longer hold a place in my heart or my wardrobe, and it feels damn good to streamline the options. Over the course of those two years I have lost approximately 30 pounds, so that helps too! Each season gives me an opportunity to look back at the clothes from the past season, and if something wasn't worn, it goes in the Goodwill bag.

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Our New Old house was built in 1921, and our kitchen is wee, so paring down is essential. I'm sensitive to odors and chemical scents, and have since come to love making my own cleansers. Gone are the days of bottle upon bottles of toxic cleansers under my sink! I use baking soda to scrub surfaces, and make surfactant spray cleansers with white vinegar, water and essential oils. I just found this recipe for a homemade Orange Power cleanser (anyone who practices self massage/abhyanga will appreciate this!) and can't wait to give it a day in my bathtub court.

My grocery list gets revamped as well. In place of soups and one pot meals are meals built around salads, and lighter, cooler fare. My morning green juices get Juicier with seasonal fruits and berries, and my blender and juicer get a ton of action once the melons make their appearances!

In the sentinel classical yoga text by Patanjali, Yoga Sutra 2.40 discusses Saucha, or purity/cleanliness, and it's pertinence to our practice. When we skillfully minimize the complexities of material (and even emotional) possessions, we create and cultivate space for the Divine to breathe with us. Without the clutter and chatter there grows space and freedom, and in turn, intrinsic wisdom that finally gets an opportunity to be heard, instead of throwing 'bo's against the superimposed media messages that argue we need more.

I first learned of decision fatigue from one of my teachers, Dr. Claudia Welch, and once I heard the term, it was immediately understood, and I don't know how I wasn't aware of it before. We live in a world where unplugging is virtually impossible! How many decisions, no matter how minute or grand, have you made by 9 a.m.? By noon? By 9p.m.? By giving myself a simple outline for the next day (that includes what I will wear, meals, and activities/work plans) the night before, I greatly reduce any potential for anxiety that can arise by too many options amid the hustle of the day.

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Additionally I've adopted self care methods in order to avoid fraying at the edges. Establishing a practical and nourishing dinacharya, or daily self care practice, has been key, and special attention is paid particularly to cleansing and simplifying my day in every way. When life comes at you fast and furious, it just makes sense to remove the rubble and allow for flow.
I have been thinking a lot about my gender this week.

For the first time in 15 years, I have been surfing. Last time I surfed was before I medically transitioned. I grew up surfing in the early '90s, when I was one of the only girls out on the waves. It was not easy being a 14-year-old girl surfing; a lot of guys didn't think women belonged on the waves. I was determined, and catching a wave is the best body feeling I have ever experienced. I was never great, but it was one of my few joys as a teenager.

This week I have been in Costa Rica, and the waves are packed with young women surfers. It is inspiring to see them empowered to enjoy a sport I love so much. It has been empowering for me to remember how much I love the feeling of catching waves. I have been sitting on the beach reminiscing about the many years in between then and now. The years when my body didn't look male, the years before I had the privilege of getting top surgery, the years I didn't feel comfortable enough in my body to go out on the waves.

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From Costa Rica, I have been watching the news about North Carolina. I flew through Charlotte, a public airport, on my way here. I will fly back through Charlotte later this week. Reading about what is happening there has reminded me of the many years I was chased out of bathrooms and questioned about why I was there.

The North Carolina law is mostly aimed at trans women. It is rooted in the fear that trans women exist. Trans women, especially trans women of color, are being killed in the US and around the world, at alarming rates. There is an epidemic. We all need to focus on protecting trans women, not just in restrooms, but in the workplace, in housing, etc.

On social media there have been some trans guys with conditional passing privilege posting images of themselves in front of "women's restroom" signs saying things like, "coming to a restroom near you". The point is to call out the ridiculousness of the new North Carolina law which says that people are supposed to pee in the bathroom aligned with their birth certificate. Within the trans community there is a backlash against these guys and their social media posts.

People seem to think that these images are using fear as a tactic and ignoring the issues effecting trans women and gender non-conforming people.

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Passing is conditional. What I mean by that is that passing, being seen for the gender with which you identify, for trans people, is never a forever guarantee. Passing can be taken away as soon as someone finds out that you are trans. They might find out because you drop your pants. They might find out because someone else discloses your trans status. People might find out because of a "tell", something that gives away the fact that you were not raised as the gender with which you identify.

The idea of "passing" is bullshit. It is bull because it implies that you are being something other than yourself. It is bull because it implies that you might be hiding something. For many of us it is also not a goal.

I didn't start medically transitioning with the goal of "passing". I am happy being seen and known as a trans guy. My goal was to align my body with my mind. When you start hormones, and other medical procedures, it is a crap shoot of what you might get. I didn't know that I would sprout a beard like a chia pet, but I did. I wasn't ready to be seen as male. Within a year I was seen as male most places. Now, 9 years into this process, I am constantly seen as male, with my clothes on, and sometimes with my shirt off.

Being seen as male has given me privileges that I knew I might gain, but I didn't understand how they worked. This week in Costa Rica, I have been seen as male, and no one knows my trans status. Guys have been sharing their thoughts about women with me because they see me as one of their own. The sexism that they espouse is horrifying; and I am now in a position to interrupt this behavior in ways that I couldn't when I was seen as female. People also expect me to be a better surfer than I am because I am perceived as male. Though there are some aspects of being seen as my gender that are relaxing, I also find this experience stressful. I find it stressful because I identify as a trans guy, yet here no one sees me as a trans guy.

For years before I began my medical transition, I was discriminated against in the restroom. Before I even knew that transitioning was a possibility, my gender was questioned in the restroom. These experiences are part of my life experience. These experiences traumatized and shaped me. The years I struggled to find if life was worth living were wrought with questions about who I was. I was questioning my sexuality and my gender. I didn't have a language for it, but I knew that something about me didn't fit into the societal norm.

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While this new law is targeting the lives of trans women, and the fear of trans women's bodies in the bathroom with the little skirt on the door, trans men and gender non-conforming folks are impacted as well.

Often cis people don't even realize that we exist. Because of the wonders of testosterone, many of us experience conditional passing privileges very quickly. Many guys of trans experience identify as male. Those of us who identify as trans guys are still often able to blend in with men in the restrooms with the little pants on the door. However, even for those of us with conditional passing privilege, the bathroom can be a stressful place. What if there are no stalls available? What if the stalls don't have doors? What if there is no toilet paper? These are all very common experiences that raise questions, questions that might disclose our trans experience.

The guys who are posting images of themselves in front of doors with skirts are not trying to incite fear, or to minimize the experiences of trans women. They are pointing out that we exist. They are also pointing out that, as much as they experience conditional privileges, they fear for their personal safety. They are reminded of the years when they were being run out of the restroom, the years they were wondering if life was worth living. They are speaking to young trans guys who are wondering what door to choose.

This law, the many like it in the works, and all of the states that do not include public accommodations in their non-discrimination laws, (including Massachusetts, the state I currently live in), allow for the discrimination of people who do not conform to the societal norms of gender expression. Many people are discriminated against with these laws. Butch women are often run out of "women's restrooms", gender non-conforming people lack safe space to pee, trans women who do not experience passing privileges on a routine basis are discriminated against. And let's be real, they often are not just yelled at and told to leave, they often face physical violence, sometimes they even face death.

We need to create safe places for all of us to pee. It is not that difficult. We could create bathrooms with actual doors on the stalls that everyone could use, regardless of gender. We do not need to create more of the segregation that we have now.

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SINJAR, IRAQ - NOVEMBER 15: A Kurdish Peshmerga soldier passes by tires set afire days before by ISIL extremists to hinder airstrikes on November 15, 2015 in Sinjar, Iraq. Kurdish forces, with the aid of months of U.S.-led coalition airstrikes, liberated the town from ISIL extremists, known in Arabic as Daesh, in recent days. Although many minority Yazidis celebrated the victory, their home city of Sinjar lay in complete ruins. Local Yazidi fighters who fought with Kurdish forces and some former residents have been taking any salvagable items out of the rubble, the town being uninhabitable and perilously close to the frontline. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

Kanan Makiya is the author of "The Rope: A Novel," released March 15.

Amidst the tumult and chaos raging everywhere in the Middle East, a constant stands out: the eroding power and influence of the state. It is perhaps best described as a tendency toward erosion, even fragmentation, that seems to be underway across the region, but nowhere more so than in Arabism's heartland -- Syria and Iraq.

And yet, while the whole Arab region seems to be affected to one degree or another, Turkey and Iran are not. Why? What accounts for this "Arab" exception? And just how deep-rooted is this state of affairs?

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The phenomenon is unlike anything so-called experts on the region, like myself, recognize from the post-Ottoman past; the deeper, pre-Ottoman past, is even less relevant.

The best one can say is that we seem to be at another of those great historical junctures in Arab history, like the early 1960s, during the peak of pan-Arabism's ascent, when events in one country leapfrogged into others with the greatest of ease. The difference now is that there are declining states, not centralizing and powerful ones, and there are no charismatic leaders or integrating ideologies like pan-Arabism, Arab socialism, Arab revolution or the struggle against imperialism and Zionism. Even political Islam, in its latest and most venal incarnation -- the so-called Islamic State -- seems to be constructed to repel rather than attract large numbers of people to its cause.

Syrians celebrating the announcement of the union agreement between Syria and Egypt as the United Arab Republic on Feb. 7, 1958. (STRINGER/AFP/Getty Images)

In the midst of all this upheaval, new realities are asserting themselves: the future of Iraq, for instance, can no longer be disentangled from that of Syria, in part because ISIS has redrawn the maps of each country. If the Lebanese civil war (1975-1989) could be contained, the Syrian civil war clearly cannot. Anyway, it is at this stage more of a proxy war than a civil war. The fates of Lebanon and Syria, along with Iraq, have become inextricably intertwined.

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It is worth noting that not only are strong leaders or integrating ideologies absent as the fates of whole countries merge, but their emergence has become difficult to imagine. There was a time in Iraq, in the 1960s before the Baath Party, when you could expect a group of army officers leading a column of tanks to take over strategic points in the capital and then conquer the state. That scenario is a thing of the past now. Political power is just too fragmented, like a sheet of glass that has shattered into a thousand pieces.

Power is about people coalescing around an idea, whether represented by a leader or not. It may be the idea of single Arab nation, or the idea of Syria or the idea of Iraq, or the great illusory nostalgia of another Caliphate.

There is no longer any unifying principle in the sphere of politics around which people can coalesce.

But nowadays, there are just too many ideas out there, not merely in the sphere of culture and personal identity -- which is normal and healthy -- but in the sphere of politics. Am I an Arab first, or an Iraqi? Should I, for the first time in my centuries-long history, be a Shiite, politically speaking? Or a Sunni? What does that even mean? Or perhaps I am a Kurd and not any kind of Syrian or Iraqi.

Much of what counts as politics has turned into competing narratives of victimhood. So what does all of that do to a person's identity, politically speaking? There is no longer any unifying principle in the sphere of politics around which people, and therefore political power, can coalesce.

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U.S. Army engineers move into position on March 18, 2003 near the Kuwait-Iraq border. (Scott Nelson/Getty Images)

What caused this tendency toward erosion and fragmentation? Could it have been the ouster of a particular dictator in 2003? Or perhaps it was the fall of a whole slew of them during the course of the Arab Spring? Or perhaps it was caused by the rapid transformation of the Arab Spring into the deep winter we are now living through.

It is enough to ask the question to see the fallacy of looking too closely at the present. Far more convincing is the realization that the fall of dictators and an Arab Spring-turned-deep-winter are all symptoms of a much broader, decades-long erosion of state and politics in the Arab world. These tendencies toward erosion were there all along but only became visible after these watershed events.

We should not reduce the Arab state to its dictators, tempting though that may be. Some sectors of the Iraqi and Syrian public, demoralized as they are by a new crop of leaders or by the failure of the Arab Spring, look back with nostalgia at life under Saddam Hussein or Syrian President Bashar Assad. Thinking that life then was better than life today -- and that the ouster of the dictator was a bad idea -- is to suggest that no form of governance other than by a "strongman" is conceivable in countries like Iraq and Syria. Certainly the argument is a rational one, given the chaos. But it is also a cynical one. And I at least will not go there.

Assad, left, talks to government soldiers in the village of Maaloula, Syria, on April 20, 2014. (SANA via AP, File)

If there is an exception to this way of looking at things, it has got to be that of the Kurdish experience in northern Iraq. But here a slightly different version of the problem raises its head. It is not that the Kurds don't want to constitute a state or are somehow unqualified and too divided to do so -- most certainly not. It is that it has become too dangerous for them to do so. And not because of dangers emanating from the Iraqi state, as was previously the case, but because of dangers emanating from the region around them.

And yet the Kurds' fighting prowess against ISIS is altering the perceptions of European and American powers working with them -- for the first time in modern Arab history. One can therefore imagine a pro-Western Kurdish garrison state that buttresses Western interests in an Arab landscape in turmoil, alongside Israel. There is nothing desirable about that scenario -- certainly not for the Kurdish people. But the state of Arab affairs is pushing the Kurds in that direction.

So how are we to understand what is going on? Wars, and the political inability of the Arab states to deal with their aftermath, are a good place to begin understanding the origins of the fragmentation afflicting the region today. Four of them have defined the Arab landscape as we see it today:

The 1967 war between Israel and its Arab neighbors. The outcome of this war, in the shape of the occupied Palestinian Territories, still haunts the region -- both Palestinian and Israeli political thinking is still entirely dominated by it. The eight-year Iran-Iraq war. The long-term impact of this war on Iraq and Iraqi-Iranian relations is still evident today. Just look at the background of those now running the show in Iraq, like Qassem Suleimani -- the leader of the Quds Force, a division of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard -- and the Shiite political elite in Iraq. The 1990-91 Iraqi occupation, annexation and destruction of Kuwait, followed by the U.S.-led Gulf War. There are unique features of that war that need to be mentioned: Saudi Arabia paid for it and the U.S., not the Arab world, waged it. Why? To restore the Arab state system to what it had been before Saddam violated it -- the same system that is falling apart everywhere today. A new kind of event in Arab politics had taken place, one that, like 1967, underlined the fragility and helplessness of the Arab state system. The American invasion of Iraq in 2003. Quite unexpectedly, this war lifted the lid and made visible the extent of the rot. Here was a war that showed that the emperor -- the all-powerful Baath state that Saddam built -- was without any clothes. The extent of has nakedness caught everyone by surprise, from the Americans who waged the war to the Iraqis like myself who supported it to those who opposed it. In point of fact, there was no war to speak of in 2003, certainly not in the sense of the other wars that Saddam had waged. The Iraqi army collapsed long before Paul Bremer, President George W. Bush's special envoy to Iraq, called for its dissolution. There was no fighting to speak of. All the rest of the state's institutions followed suit, which is why Iraq is now traversing completely uncharted and dangerous waters in state building.

A group of Yazidis from Iraq walk on train tracks near the Greek village of Idomeni on March 3. (LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP/Getty Images)

So where do we go from here? Bringing the state back into the picture seems to me the most urgent task facing the region. In the political firmament, there is absolutely nothing worse than not having a state, as any Palestinian -- or, nowadays, any Iraqi or Syrian as well -- will tell you. What better proof of this proposition than all the refugees piling up on Europe's borders?

And it has to begin in Syria. Bringing back the Syrian state -- to be sure, not in the image of the old one  is a very tall order that cannot be left to the Arab world alone. It can only come about through a regional and international consensual arrangement, which at the moment seems most unlikely to happen.

Also on WorldPost:
The general election can't get here fast enough. As exhausting as the season has been, what do voters need to do now?

More than a year ago, the Cook County medical examiner's autopsy revealed the true story of Laquan's death. Last week, an electoral autopsy revealed a vote of no confidence in government's performance in poor communities, as a new political chapter buried 7-term incumbent State Representative Ken Dunkin, and gave life to the historic ascendancy of Democratic nominee for Cook County State's Attorney, Kim Foxx.

Dunkin's "People over Politics" campaign boomeranged, severing and exposing itself for what it really was ---- a racialized and well-financed "Politics over People" campaign failure that used chicanery, and personality-vilifying to distract a majority African American electorate from focusing on draconian policies that stand to exacerbate the downtrodden condition of the many. Dark money can't buy an enlightened and engaged electorate. The voters called the campaign out: one that sold its constituency out by wrongfully assuming it could play them for stupid. Dunkin's lost was a wake-up call for the marginalizing few.

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On the other hand, Laquan's killing fast became a rallying cry, as Foxx's "restoration of fairness and credibility" campaign became a white horse, antithetical to government misconduct, illegality and hypocrisy in marginalized communities of color. Millennials fueled this spirit, as it also fueled them. It ignited a movement, aided and abetted by a litany of local and national events magnifying government oppression. Government tyranny can't mute the voices of the people forever.

Pundits harshly asserted Foxx won because of Laquan.

No. Laquan pulled bureaucratic corruption from under the rug of government secrecy. Voters demanded more and better from a colluding group of agencies intentionally unresponsive to poor communities and riddled with ineptness. Foxx's nomination is a therefore, not a whereas; a consequence of government malfeasance exposed, not because of Laquan.

The Dunkin and Foxx campaigns are flip sides of the same victory coin. But not to be celebrated ad nauseam.

"I understand the excitement, but let us not get lost in the gravity of the work that is ahead of us," Foxx stated during her victory speech.

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The marginalized have been here before. Where, in the wake of victorious social and political battles, jubilance became a distraction from staying the course. As a result, today's marginalized are still fighting to win a war over the same ideals, beliefs, and legislation from yesteryear.

The Tortoise and the Hare reminds us that steady wins the race. In the short-term, a movement can be like the hare; energetic, exciting, making things happen, and outpacing the lethargic nature of a tortoise-like campaign. But, in the long term, when movements bask too long in the afterglow of a one lap victory, a campaign with staying power wins the race, leaving the movement and its supporters behind, with a consolation prize of inspirational folklore, scratching their heads, asking, "What just happened?"

As Foxx faces a general election in November, the movement, the marginalized and those opposed to government corruption must stay the course.

There are several mandatory steps.

1. Remain civically engaged. Government disregard of poor people was a match that lit a forest fire of protests in the form of countless marches, sit-ins, die-ins, and rallies. Global peace activist Helen Caldicott is right. "Sometimes it's appropriate to scream at them." Citizen participation brought attention to issues previously cast aside or ignored by the status quo. Staying the course requires consistently and unabashedly defining the issues, taking a position, and mobilizing support with and on behalf of the marginalized.

2. Focus on the "what" not the "who." It is more profitable for the marginalized to pay more attention to the policies a candidate supports, and less on the personality a candidate purports. Dunkin tried to distract voters from the policies endorsed by his benefactors by focusing on the personality of his opposition's donor, Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, to no avail. Voters saw through the campaign's trickery, focusing more on the regressive policies and the negative impact on their daily lives, including but not limited to the potential closing of the state's community colleges, universities, and social service provider agencies.

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3. Vote your interest, not special interests. The ballot box is democracy's microphone for the marginalized. The more people access it, the louder the crescendos of opportunity, fairness, and equality become. On March 15, Cook County broke its early voting record. Voter turnout for Chicago was over 50 percent. 26,000 voters registered. Exit polls showed African American turnout was 150 percent higher than 2014, and higher than normal in Latino communities. In the wake of local organizations drawing attention to abusive government toward African Americans, Foxx won in areas where they were the largest population. And despite his attempt to convince the electorate otherwise, a vote for Dunkin was a vote for regressive policies hurting a majority of his constituents.

4. Hold elected officials accountable. Maintaining political pressure forces elected officials to comply with what's in the best interest of the electorate. Years after electing President Obama, pundits in the African American community, regret not holding him more accountable to addressing issues specific to the African American community. Caught in the rapture of the country's first black President, observers opined that marginalized communities gave Obama "a pass," relieving him of addressing the specific interests of the marginalized group of which he is a member.
Advice for how to gracefully handle mistakes often emphasizes 1) taking responsibility for the error, 2) presenting a plan for the remedy, and then 3) fixing what was wrong. Although these directions sound simple, they can be extremely difficult to execute in real life. No one finds it easy to own up to a mistake -- particularly a costly one.

One case in point I came across recently was Brad. He manages a $2 billion hedge fund that had a terrible quarter -- two of his largest positions, both energy stocks, dropped 25%, turning what would have been a lackluster result into a disaster. He procrastinated on writing the shareholder letter for so long that both the marketing and compliance directors were constantly emailing him and stopping by his office.

He finally came up with an explanation: "The fund was negatively impacted during the quarter by weakening energy prices due to irrational supply factors and excess inventories." Brad sent it off, believing that he adequately addressed the issue. Did he?

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Another example was when James Comey, director of the FBI, spoke in front of the House Judiciary Committee about the need for Apple to unlock the iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino, California, attackers. In describing some actions taken by the agency and other law enforcement entities immediately following the attack he said: "There was a mistake made in the 24 hours after the attack" that made it impossible later to cause the phone to back up to the iCloud.

Is this what an apology sounds like? Not to me.

As a professional investor, I am well acquainted with the phenomenon of thinking something is a great bargain, only to realize that the sale was just getting started and the prices would be further slashed each day. I have learned to tell clients that we bought a stock incorrectly, that we misjudged, mistimed, or misunderstood the environment or the market.

In his letter, Brad never acknowledged that he or his firm made a mistake. He made it seem that the fund suffered from external forces beyond management's control -- as if it were a victim of an assault or a disease. While, of course, he can't be blamed for not seeing the extent to which oil prices would fall, he had still miscalculated the downside.

The FBI director followed the exact same playbook. When Comey said, "There was a mistake made," he doesn't say who made the mistake, leaving us to wonder if it was all beyond their control.

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Speakers and their institutions are often judged by the manner in which they communicate. In both cases, regardless of whether Brad or James Comey individually did anything wrong, their respective constituencies were affected by the words they chose and the tone they used. Being direct is a signal that you are confident enough to admit fault. In Brad's case, by not owning the bad news, he potentially lost even more of his shareholders' and clients' confidence. Comey, too, risked losing the trust of his colleagues, the president, other law enforcement agencies, the press, and the U.S. public.

Why is it so hard for most of us to say, "I did it"?

Many people are afraid of appearing incompetent in front of our colleagues and bosses. But what we sometimes don't realize is that it is worse to be viewed as a coward incapable of owning up to mistakes or accepting criticism. Rather than saying, "The plate dropped," it is good practice to say, "I dropped the plate" -- especially if that is exactly what happened. The best executives and investors "drop plates" all the time; without doing so, they would lack experience and a healthy understanding of risk.

Developing a culture where people feel comfortable admitting mistakes needs to start at the top, because employees watch their leaders for clues on acceptable behavior and etiquette. One of the most valuable things that a manager can teach her staff is the ability (no matter how embarrassing) to show fallibility, admit wrongdoing, listen to tough feedback, and persevere through the corrective action toward the next challenge.

I learned years ago that the most "cleansing" process for me, particularly when it comes to investment mistakes, is to take responsibility for losing positions and to be open with my clients and colleagues about what happened. Clients are never happy with poor performance, but accepting blame is far preferable to hiding or deflecting it. And being honest within our equity team improves our mutual trust and allows us to move forward effectively.

Of course, attorneys today play a major role in counseling clients to sometimes avoid all suggestion of wrongdoing. But in most workplace situations the mistake falls far below the legal threshold for damage management and control.

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I'm about to leave Yemen after a week training our field staff and documenting the plight of millions of displaced and impoverished civilians. For a year now, millions of Yemenis in the poorest country in the region have been living under a cruel Saudi-led blockade and relentless air strikes.

The driver, Adnan, 44, is intrigued about the training I gave. As he drives me to Sana'a airport, Yemenis are going through their daily chores amid bombed out buildings--from factories, shops and houses to government offices.

"If you had to stop to take a picture now, what would you photograph?" he asks me.

I tell him I would try to capture Yemenis going about their daily lives to the backdrop of destruction. People going to work or doing their shopping, children going to school, kiosk owners selling fuel on the black market (fuel is one of the essential goods affected by the blockade), young and old people chatting and chewing khat.

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Life goes on in the market in the old city of Sana'a. Photo: Karl Schembri/NRC"I like that," he says with his infectious smile, but he quickly adopts a pensive mood. "I understand your job is to bring attention to our situation, but how do you do it? Nobody cares. We've been in this war for almost a year and everyone has forgotten us."

That's a question I've been struggling with. Part of the harsh, brutal answer lies in the fact that none of the elite nations feel the impact of this crisis--it is too marginalised and, unlike the desperate Syrian refugees risking their lives to reach Europe, most of the Yemenis are internally displaced and cannot make it to safety elsewhere.

Air strikes have destroyed largely civilian infrastructure. Photo: Karl Schembri/NRC

Even before the war, Yemen had a massive chronic poverty and malnutrition crisis that was barely ever covered in the media. Now, the little news that comes out portrays the situation as hopeless, as if millions of Yemenis are just fighting each other and spreading terror, never mind that the bombs falling on Yemen are manufactured and sold by western countries.

I tell Adnan one way to go about it is to zoom in on the individual stories, giving a face and a name to this crisis, showing that behind the big figures and high politics, there are innocent individuals with dreams and aspirations like everyone else. The question is then to make linkages to the outside world, the common threads that unite us, despite our cultural differences and contexts.

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Speaking the same language"How can I help?" he asks me.

I ask him to tell me his story, and what he tells me just sweeps me away.

For seven years he worked as a marketing manager with Shell, until the oil multinational pulled out of Yemen in the wake of a string of Al Qaeda attacks across the country. It was in that job that he learnt English.

"I had to learn English well to do my job," the father of four said.

Suddenly unemployed, he started a business importing lubricants from Dubai, but local cartels soon dominated the market by slashing prices, making it impossible for him to continue. For two years he lived on his savings, bought a van to do odd jobs, and just a little less than four years ago joined NRC as a driver.

The grandson of a Yemeni from Aden who travelled to Ethiopia about a century ago, where Adnan was born, Adnan speaks four languages: Arabic, English, Amharic and Oromo, and tells me he's learning Italian. That surprises me.

"I just love Italian," he goes on to add. "When I hear someone speaking Italian, there's something musical, poetic, which no other language has. I tried learning French but it's too complicated. You write one thing and say another. Italian is melody."

We go on talking in Italian for a while. He loves it, and I'm thrilled.

"I watch Italian films with subtitles to learn new words," he says. "Whenever my son sees me glued to my laptop with the headphones on he always asks me why I am bothering learning this language. I just love it, but he doesn't understand. If only I knew you spoke Italian I'd have made sure you'd stay with me all week."

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Hemingway in YemenAdnan's story defies expectations, but it shouldn't come as a surprise. In my week I met a staff member who studied Ernest Hemingway and Daniel Defoe for his Masters dissertation in English literature, but is still waiting to do his viva as his Indian professor left the country as soon as the war started. His dissertation is a comparative study of the heroic attributes of Robinson Crusoe and Santiago, the main character in The Old Man and the Sea.

I met heads of families whom the Norwegian Refugee Council is helping with food aid who until a year ago had normal jobs that made them proud breadwinners. The blockade and the war made them jobless overnight, dependent on humanitarian aid.

I met an extremely poor family who had to flee last year after the blast from powerful air strikes nearby destroyed parts of their house. One of the daughters, Tahani, 19, was about to launch her own local campaign to get working children back to school, with her father's support. She now volunteers at a local hospital because she feels there is a shortage of medical workers and wants to be a nurse.

"Sometimes I think maybe I should give up," Adnan tells me as we approach the airport. "Maybe there's no future for us. But I have to do it for my children."

As Adnan stops his car in the airport parking, we exchange emails and our skype details. He asks me to stay in touch so that he has someone he can speak in Italian to. I tell him I need to take his photo.

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That's the last photograph I took in Yemen.

My last photo in Yemen. Adnan and his car. Photo: Karl Schembri/NRC
How does someone go from crippling social anxiety and lonely Friday nights to becoming an active part of a community and inventing a game to help people from all over the world beat social anxiety?

I want to share a true, remarkable story about Jason Comely, a man who beat his social anxiety by getting rejected on purpose... over and over again.

If you're interested in hearing the whole story, click here for my 1-1 interview with him.



Today I want to share six of the best takeaways from Jason's transformation story along with actionable tips you can use to beat ANY fear you're facing in your life.

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1. Use "small wins" to propel your success

Small wins are met by setting "micro goals." Using small wins helps you build momentum and motivation so you can build upon each of the small achievements and start creating larger goals for yourself.

Jason was terrified of getting rejected but knew the only way to get over this was to turn it into a game. He started off by asking for small favors like a piece of gum or handing out a flyer and then he made his asks even bigger and more audacious.

Starting off small gave him confidence to begin asking for medium and larger sized asks to achieve his ultimate goal of rejection.

Small wins can be attained by setting micro-goals. They must be:

Specific

Have a deadline

Have a small reward tied to the action (not the result)

How to get started:

Come up with one or two micro goals that you can achieve in the next 10 days. Write them down and be specific. Make them achievable, specific, set a deadline and have a small reward tied to the action itself rather than the result.

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2. Get to your "aha moment"

Have you taken the time to reflect lately? I know this sounds really cheesy, but it's so necessary. Jason credits self-reflection when he talks about finding his "aha moment." We always seem to have the music or TV going to distract us and we fail to ask ourselves simple questions that can change our lives.

The questions we ask ourselves shape our lives. If you ask yourself questions that are based in fear you will be afraid. If you ask yourself empowering questions that help you take action, you will be able to make great change.

How to get started:

Just spend 10 minutes this week to write out some answers to these questions:

What are you afraid of?

What is the biggest "problem" in your life?

How can you start taking action NOW?

If you haven't done this exercise before, I can guarantee your answers will surprise you.

3. Get over being "weird"

My favorite story Jason shared was the one time he started feeling uncomfortable at a social gathering. He started feeling out of place, but immediately reminded himself to "be the weirdest person in the room." As soon as he thought that, a funny looking man walks into the room... dressed as a pirate! This immediately put his mind at ease and gave him a good laugh.

Although you may not have a funny looking pirate to cheer up your next social event, this story reminds us of the importance of being you. Be weird and enjoy it!

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How to get started:

The first thing you need to do is identify your cues. What types of things make you feel uncomfortable or insecure? Is it when you break the ice with a stranger or when you don't know anyone at a party?

Once you know the types of cues that make you uncomfortable, you can then channel the mantra "be the weirdest person in the room." To make it even easier, think of a funny looking pirate to remind you!

4. Stop being selfish

When Jason looks back on how much he struggled with socializing and fear of rejection he wished that he was more focused on helping others rather than getting caught up in his own issues.

He talked about the importance of empathizing with other people and becoming more concerned with making them feel comfortable. This helps you get out of your own head and makes you a much more enjoyable conversation partner by being engaged.

How to get started:

If you struggle with social skills, you know that you're constantly wondering how people are judging you. But if you put yourself aside for a moment and make the other person feel comfortable, it will help quiet your inner voice and make the other person feel important.

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5. Transform your story

Like many people who struggle with fear of socializing, Jason dealt a lot with negative self-talk. He now finds solace by being in peace, meditating and lessening unnecessary distractions in his life.

He challenges us to just take one day to stop the negative self-talk, stop the stories.

At the end of the day, reflect and see how your day was different.

How to get started:

See here for a full primer on developing positive mental habits.

6. Create super meaning (and visit a dangerous country?!)

Jason visited the most dangerous country in the world at the time, Guatemala, all because he thought he could help and inspire other people.

He found himself speaking at a pretty posh event with VIP service, but that would've never gotten him there. The reason he decided to make the trip in the first place is because he truly thought he could help entrepreneurs in a third world country.

Jason chose to find meaning in his life and found it in serving other people.

If Jason did it, so can you.

How to take action:

Can you identify something meaningful in your life that would motivate you to improve your social confidence or attractiveness? Let something important drive and motivate you to change.

Conclusion

When we find people who excel or get over really challenging obstacles it's important to identify some of the things they did so we can replicate them for our own success. Jason was so kind in sharing his story with me.

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U.S. President Barack Obama, right, listens as King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia speaks during a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Friday, Sept. 4, 2015. 'This is obviously a challenging time in world affairs, particularly in the Middle East,' Obama told reporters, mentioning energy near the end of a list of topics that he and Salman would address. Photographer: Olivier Douliery/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Why does President Obama think it's okay for 15 Arabs (and four of their friends) to come into our country, hijack our planes, crash them into our buildings, and brutally kill 3,000 innocent people?

Because those 15 Arabs were Saudis, that's why. And, Saudis are special. Saudis are apparently allowed to get away with murder -- or at least the financing of it.

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I am a 9/11 widow. My husband Ron was killed while he was working at his desk for Fiduciary Trust Company on the 94th floor of Tower 2. Ron was 39 years old, I was 30, and our daughter was two. I watched the horror unfold on live worldwide television as I stood in my kitchen speaking to Ron. Moments later, I watched Flight 175 slice into his building, exactly where he stood on the other end of the line talking to me.

Since 9/11, my life has been spent fighting for truth, accountability, and lessons to be learned so that no other family would ever have to suffer such searing pain and tragic loss. Shamefully, my government has fought me tooth and nail along the way. Recently, it has become increasingly clear to me why my government has fought against such transparency, accountability, and revelation of the truth regarding the 9/11 attacks.

There are 28 pages of the Joint Inquiry of Congress (an investigation into the U.S. government intelligence failures prior to 9/11) that have remained classified and hidden away from the American public by both the Bush and Obama Administrations. These 28 pages allegedly prove that the Saudis had a controlling hand in funding the 9/11 attacks that killed 3,000 innocent people.

Now, it's more than fair to say that if these 28 pages blamed the Iraqis or the Iranians for financing the 9/11 attacks, they would have been released years ago. Unfortunately, since the 28 pages allegedly implicate the Saudis, they're likely to remain secret and kept away from the American public forever.

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Knowing that evidence of your husband's murder is being specifically withheld from you by the president -- with the sole intent to protect the terrorists and their financial backers -- is not something any American should ever have to tolerate.

Unfortunately, the 28 pages aren't the only example of the U.S. government protecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to the detriment of the 9/11 families.

For the past 15 years, the 9/11 families have also tried to hold the KSA accountable in a court of law. Most recently, the KSA was dismissed from the 9/11 case on grounds of foreign sovereign immunities protection under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA).

The FSIA was clearly not created with the intent that nations that sponsor mass terrorism should get away with it scot-free. Nevertheless, the U.S. government has wholeheartedly supported this perverted and warped use of the FSIA by the Saudis. In short, it seems that as long as you are an ally of the U.S. and not a named state-sponsor of terrorism, apparently you can underwrite all the mass murder you want and get away with it.

Obviously, the 9/11 families have fought very hard against the Saudis misuse of the FSIA and their dismissal from our case. In fact, several times we have petitioned for a writ of certiorari seeking Supreme Court review of our case. Each time, the U.S. Department of Justice (at the direction of President Obama) has written "Letters of Interest" recommending that the Supreme Court deny hearing our case thereby allowing the Saudis to remain excused from our case via their FSIA shield.

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Why would President Obama recommend that the highest court in the land refuse to hear our case about the worst terrorist attack in the land? If he wasn't going to support us, couldn't he just have kept his mouth shut? Did he really need to intervene and kill our chances of Supreme Court review? And, why does President Obama, as well as certain other members, officials, and bureaucrats in our government, think it is more important to support and protect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia rather than Americans who were victims of a terrorist attack?

Finding ourselves blocked by the president with regard to the release of the 28 pages, and with regard to the Supreme Court reviewing the dismissal of the KSA as a key defendant in our case, we turned to the U.S. Congress for help. And Congress answered our call with a vital piece of anti-terror legislation called JASTA (Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act).

JASTA ensures that no nation (including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) that funds terrorism will be able to use the FSIA as a shield to their culpability. JASTA is the legislative response to the Saudi's misuse of the FSIA in our 9/11 court case. JASTA removes FSIA protections from the KSA and, as a result, the 9/11 families will finally be able to have our day in court against the Saudis.

Notably, JASTA merely brings the KSA back into court and allows for the discovery and investigation to begin against the Saudi's and their financial role in the 9/11 attacks -- nearly 15 years after the crime was committed. Egregiously, it has taken eight long years in Washington, several Congresses, and two Secretaries of State to get JASTA even close to passing into law. (Secretary of State Clinton wasn't exactly an enthusiastic supporter of JASTA, but then again, neither is Secretary Kerry. The KSA has given between $10 and 25 million to the Clinton Foundation.

Unsurprisingly, as soon as JASTA was set to pass with Senate approval, the shadowy Saudi-protectionist hand of the U.S. government, once again, reached out to block our progress. A whisper campaign with no fingerprints was dispensed to kill JASTA.

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And, those whispers sounded something like this: if JASTA passes, the Saudis will bankrupt our economy by withdrawing $800 billion worth of T-bonds, and even worse, if JASTA passes, the Saudis will stop protecting and sharing intelligence information with the U.S. and leave us vulnerable to an ISIS attack.

So, it would seem that the same group of people who fought against the release of the 28 pages, and our case being heard by the Supreme Court, are at it once again, this time opposing JASTA and labeling it a diplomatic disaster.

Exactly how a piece of legislation, like JASTA, that stops nations from funding terrorists who want to kill Americans can be labeled a diplomatic disaster defies logic. Does anyone think the folks in Belgium would have a problem with JASTA? What about Paris? San Bernardino?

The problem is that those of us who are victims of terrorist attacks don't exactly benefit from any relationship with the KSA -- a nation that has knowingly funded terrorists for years. Conversely, those who do directly benefit from a "special relationship" with the KSA feel that the rest of us should just quietly go away and accept our plight and fate.

Why does our government cover up and protect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia rather than hold them accountable for their funding of terrorist groups like ISIS and al Qaeda? Why does our government not care about victims of terrorism funded by the KSA? In a nutshell, here's why:

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1. The U.S. has sold nearly $100 billion worth of weapons to KSA. Our defense contracting industry makes large campaign contributions to ex-presidents, presidents, potential presidents, and various members of Congress.

2. KSA funds the CIA for its "off the books" forays around the world -- in other words, when the CIA wants to do something without the mess and hassle of Congressional oversight (like the war in Yemen and Syria, Iran-Contra, funding the Mujahedeen, etc.), they turn to the KSA to fund their recreational activities.

3. KSA provides drone bases for the U.S. military.

4. KSA is part of the newly formed coalition fighting against Assad and the proxy war in Yemen.

5. The U.S. apparently sold approximately $800 billion of U.S. Treasury Bonds to the KSA and they now threaten to cash out, thereby crashing the U.S. economy.



6. KSA pays lobbying firms with deep ties to the Obama, Bush, and Clinton White Houses in addition to Congress.

Three thousand innocent people were killed on 9/11. Right here, on our soil. Those men and women were slaughtered in broad daylight. And to this day, not one person, not one official, not one Kingdom has been held accountable in an open court of law. Not one. And that is a crime itself.

Rumor has it that President Obama is soon scheduled to travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I only wish I could adequately relay the disgust I have in my heart when I anticipate having to see my president smiling, laughing, and joking with his "special Saudi friends" -- the very same people who I believe underwrote the murder of my husband and nearly 3,000 others.

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President Obama, you must not have read those 28 pages of the JICI, because if you did, I cannot fathom how or why you could ever bow and kiss the ring of Saudi terror. No amount of money, no greed, no power, no regional interest could ever be worth such treason.


Design Army/Wenjun Laing

Pum Lefebure is co-founder and chief creative officer of Design Army in Washington, DC, where she oversees all creative that comes through the agency's doors. As an award-winning creative director and business leader, Pum has dreamed up high-profile campaigns worldwide for Ritz Carlton, Marriott, Bloomingdales, Lucasfilm, and the Academy Awards, among others. The Thailand native brings a global sensibility to American design--a creative viewpoint that draws from different cultures and resonates with diverse audiences.

Pum was named by Graphic Design USA as one of the top 50 People to Watch, and awarded Rising Star by the Washington Business Journal's Women Who Mean Business.

How has your life experience made you the leader you are today?

Having lived half my life in Asia and half in the U.S. has given me a unique understanding and perspective of the world. I grew up in Thailand with ancient temples in wild, vivid colors and designs. Then I came to America where everything--from McDonalds to Times Square--was mass market, loud, and in your face. This blending of extreme cultures influenced and spurred my distinct voice and style.

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Also, when I came to the U.S. as a foreign exchange student, I was on my own and didn't speak the language. Everything took me twice as long as my classmates. But for the first time, I realized I was in charge of my future. I made it a point to work harder then everyone else. By not relying on a perfect translation across languages, I learned how to speak visually, explaining concepts and directions without words. And I taught myself that you create your own luck: the harder you work, the luckier you get.

How has your previous employment experience aided the creation and evolution of Design Army?

The strong work ethic that was instilled earlier in my life carried throughout my career. Before my husband Jake and I founded Design Army, I spent eight years with another D.C. design firm. Starting as an intern, I worked my way up to Senior Art Director, managing a 50-plus creative team. I was the first to arrive, and the last to leave. The agency also went through many transformations while I was there, including being bought by a large advertising firm. I learned to navigate through all the changes and challenges, experiencing the company at its best and worst. It was like getting a first-hand degree in business. That experience laid the foundation and confidence to start my own company.

What have the highlights and challenges been during Design Army's evolution?

We started Design Army at our kitchen table, and it's grown to a top-tier branding firm, which gives me great pride. I'm also so proud of all the amazing work that comes out of Design Army, giving the firm a distinct voice and sensibility all its own.

The main challenge is our location. Based in Washington, D.C., clients assume we aren't as sexy as agencies in New York or Tokyo, or that we only do political work. But despite our location, we hardly have any political clients--most are national or international. And the clients who do their research realize that, while we may not be the obvious choice, we are the right choice. They come to Design Army to do something different. So I suppose, our challenge is a blessing in disguise.

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What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry?

Be a creative thinker, have passion, and never stop learning. This is a hard industry, not just for women, but for everyone. It doesn't matter what you do, as long as you do it well.

What is the most important lesson you've learned in your career to date?

To be extremely selective with the clients we take on. When we first started Design Army, we took on everything. But the clients you choose today set the foundation for the clients you get tomorrow. It's not about who can pay, it's about who will bring interesting projects to the table, which might lead to more exciting work and help you grow in the direction you want.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

I don't. People think of work/life balance as the separation between work and downtime. In order to balance my life, I need to blend them together. I also love what I do. When I am working, I'm playing. I think that if you truly love what you do then you don't need to balance it.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women in the workplace?

The biggest issue is the mentality that being a woman is an issue. To think we can't accomplish as much our male peers or get ahead is bull. We should always feel empowered and ready to take on the world, even if the men around us don't believe the same. I'm able to run a business and be a mom at the same time; I want both and I make it work.

How has mentorship made a difference in your professional and personal life?

It's crucial to give back to our industry. I make an effort to speak at events and participate in mentorship programs. I want to help young designers and teach them how to advance in our industry. I've come to realize that mentorship is never completely one-sided. When I spoke at One Show this past year, I worked on a project with a group of young Chinese design students. Even with the language barrier (we communicated via a translator), I learned so much about Chinese culture and design--it was fascinating. You gain so much by giving.

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Which other female leaders do you admire and why?

Cleopatra. She was such a badass. She was strategic, determined, and never let anything stand in her way.
When I tell people I work on the protection of women and children in humanitarian and development settings, no one's first thought is of birth certificates. Most of us who are fortunate enough to have birth certificates keep them in overlooked drawers of paperwork collecting dust. We rarely appreciate that this unspectacular document represents the basic human right to a legal proof of name, age, parentage, and nationality. But for the 230 million children under five around the world, the lack of a birth certificate leads to social stigma, exclusion from basic government services, and diminished access to justice.

Consider a case from a few years ago. Wilfreda Soik faced the death penalty in Malaysia for killing the man who had trafficked her into domestic servitude and repeatedly abused her. Her legal defense claimed that she had been a minor at the time of her abuser's death, which would have kept her from the gallows. But her passport had been deliberately falsified by the traffickers to make her appear older.

The defense sought out Soik's birth certificate, considered the highest proof of legal identity in her native Indonesia. Like well over half of Indonesian minors, however, she did not have one. In the end, Soik got lucky. Her defense team uncovered a christening letter that proved she was just a child, which was instrumental to convincing the judges to acquit her.

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Soik's case demonstrates the critical importance of legal recognition and the vulnerability of those without it. In Indonesia, where I worked for a number of years, birth certificates also foster access to a number of government services, including education. In a recent study, we found that birth certificate ownership in Indonesia was also associated with the use of reproductive health services, which is important in a country that has had a stubbornly high maternal mortality ratio.

More broadly, birth registration helps governments plan, budget, and monitor population health properly. As a primary input for a national vital statistics system, birth certifications enable countries to know their fertility rate, which governments rely on to create social policy, design programs, and evaluate their efforts. In Indonesia, the poorest families in the poorest regions are least likely to have birth certificates, which means that the government has the least data about the very populations that need services most.

The international development community is increasingly recognizing the multifold advantages of expanding birth registration coverage. When the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted last year, they introduced a new agenda for the field of development and birth registration for all became a specific development target. What is more, the World Bank went on to argue that "providing robust means of identification," such as birth certificates, "will fundamentally support the achievement of at least 10 other SDGs," in areas such as social protection, women's empowerment, health, and even fighting terrorism.

Children of unmarried parents cannot be registered in many countries. In Indonesia, the birth certificate of children born out of legal wedlock cannot include the father's name, legally bastardizing them. It is no surprise, then, that in a recent study, we found that when Indonesian parents had marriage certificates, their children were 90 percent more likely to be registered.

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These intergenerational linkages are consequential in a country where three in five children are not in the birth registry. Indonesia has among the highest populations of unregistered children in the world. In response, President Joko Widodo built birth registration into his 2015 development plan, as a key poverty reduction measure. But reducing the massive coverage gap will take more than political commitment.

Despite policy reforms eliminating formal processing fees, we've found that the cost associated with certificate applications is still the most common barrier for parents. Processing application requirements, like marriage certificates, contributes to this financial burden. The distance parents have to travel to reach certifying officers adds another cost.

Many Indonesian parents still do not know what a birth certificate is or what its uses are, and those that do often consider the application procedure complex and opaque. Many turn to middlemen to broker their applications at an additional price, but many more choose simply not to apply because, as one community member shared, "we need to use the money for other things."
father and daughter using tablet

Last summer, I attended a traditional Catholic wedding for my cousin. During the religious ceremony, the priest made it a point to mention that the marriage he was blessing was a true marriage because it involved one man and one woman. He began this sentiment with the phrase, "Let me be clear."

I didn't pay much attention to it. I didn't pay much attention to the entire service, actually. I'm not Catholic, so there's a lot of traditional aspects and church rituals that occur during Catholic wedding ceremonies that I don't understand. I'm more spiritual than religious, so besides the most exciting part where my cousin and her now husband said I do, I found myself pondering life and cracking silly jokes with my older brother.

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In the car on the way back to the hotel before the reception, my father turned to me and said, "You know when the priest made that comment about one man and one woman?"

I nodded, smiling wryly to myself.

"I was wondering if you heard it," my father continued, "and I was worried it would make you feel less than."

"It didn't bother me," I said. "We were sitting in a Catholic church."

"Still..." my father said, pausing to make a face, as if to say how dare he. "It doesn't mean anything."

I marveled at the man driving the car beside me -- my father, bursting with pride and unconditional love for his gay daughter. To fully understand the gravity of this sentiment, you must first understand just how much he's evolved.

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My father is a conservative republican. He listens to Rush Limbaugh on the regular. He bought a gun just because he wanted to exercise his right to do so. He sends me articles from right-winged websites and watches Fox News a lot. He can't stand Obama and he once said that if Hillary Clinton were ever elected president, then he would move to Canada.

I came out to my parents when I was 23. That's 14 years ago. I sat there at the dinner table and dropped a bomb right in the middle of the grilled chicken. My father and I had always had the kind of relationship where we could talk about almost anything and everything. But after I told him I was gay, we didn't talk much. Back then, he was incredibly staunch about his conservative beliefs, and I had basically taken his entire worldview and turned it on its head with one simple phrase: I'm gay.

For months, my father put on a brave face. But inside he was struggling to make sense of it, to bridge the gap between his conservative republican beliefs and having a gay daughter, and because we didn't talk about it or about his feelings, he struggled in silence. Then one day -- perhaps he couldn't take the silence anymore or perhaps he felt he needed to be heard -- he said something that made me feel so small and insignificant I thought I might disappear right then and there.

I had been watching a rerun of Friends, and it was the episode where Ross's ex-wife marries another woman. As the studio sitcom audience erupted in laughter on cue during the next quip, I cowered in horror as my father pointed at the screen and vehemently declared, "I will never support that. Ever!"

My mouth gaped. At first, I thought he was joking.

"You mean, if I decide to get married someday you won't be there?" I dared to ask.

"No," my father said, determined to stand his ground. In all my life, even to this day, it was the only time he had ever glaringly disapproved of me. I wasn't prepared for it. It was as if I had been sitting comfortably at a bar enjoying myself only to turn around and get sucker punched in the gut by a complete stranger. That's who my father was to me at that moment -- a stranger.

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I ran out of the house and down the street to my best friend's place. I sobbed to her parents and told them what happened. I wasn't sure how my relationship with my father would go on from there. But little by little, he began to transform.

At first, he would refer to my girlfriends as "friends." Time passed. We still talked around the subject instead of actually talking about it. When I started seeing someone exclusively, he was bold enough to meet her parents. When my now wife and I got engaged, he wasn't sure what to make of it. We planned and paid for the wedding mostly by ourselves. One day he called me up and asked, "So what am I supposed to wear to this thing?" The comment stung, but I thought, at least he's coming.

On my wedding day, he was there. So were many of my close family members and friends. My father stood up and made a grand old speech that left everyone in the room looking for Kleenex.

When I first came out to my parents, I started the conversation by saying my worst fear was disappointing them. During his speech, my father said that I had only disappointed him twice in my life and he recounted two hilarious tales of adolescent delinquencies on my behalf. His point was this: my actions as a teenager may have caused him some grief, but me being gay, well, that wasn't a disappointment at all. That was simply who I am.

I've been married six years now. I have a 3-year-old daughter and nice spread in the country. My father and I have the kind of relationship I once wondered if we'd ever have again. We laugh. We talk. We share our viewpoints and political opinions. We listen. We hug. We tell each other how much we love one another. He loves my wife like a daughter and has told me so on more than one occasion. He adores his granddaughter to pieces.

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My father is still a conservative republican. He still has his views and beliefs, many of which I disagree with. But his worldview has been forever changed. He's forever changed. As I sat there in the passenger seat of that rental car, I took a moment to reflect and let it sink in. I am so damn lucky to have this man as my father.
Women from the Christian community mourn for their relatives, who were killed by a suicide attack on a church, during their funeral in Lahore, March 17, 2015. Suicide bombings outside two churches in Lahore killed 14 people and wounded nearly 80 others during services on Sunday in attacks claimed by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban. REUTERS/Mohsin Raza (PAKISTAN - Tags: CIVIL UNREST POLITICS RELIGION OBITUARY)

A day before the tragic bomb blast in Lahore, a city described as "the heart of Pakistan", I hosted Raza Rumi, a prominent liberal Pakistani journalist, on a live radio show to inquire if Pakistan's prime minister Nawaz Sharif had finally decided to walk his country on the path to liberalization. Rumi, now based in the United States after luckily surviving an assassination attempt on him in March 2014, responded affirmatively.

The Pakistani prime minister, now serving an unprecedented third term, has taken several measures in recent times which were previously unimaginable. He has irked the confrontational religious lobby by taking bold steps toward combating violence against women with the help of new legislation, providing protection to religious minorities, discouraging the misuse of the country's infamous blasphemy law and improving ties and enhancing cooperation with arch-rival India. Sharif seems to have some backing of the mighty army but it is unclear how much and to what extent the army is comfortable with the idea of a liberal (and possibly secular) Pakistan.

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Sunday's horrific terrorist attack in Lahore killed at least seventy people, including several woman and children. The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan Jamaatul Ahrar has accepted responsibility for the suicide attack that was carried out at a public park when an "unusually large" crowd was spending time with their families on the eve of Easter.

The incident attracted more media attention than the usual similar attacks perpetrated by the Taliban elsewhere in Pakistan probably because it took place in the capital of the country's most powerful province. In the past one decade, the Taliban had spared no major city as they have carried out numerous devastating attacks in the cities of Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi. However, the Punjab was largely considered as a Taliban-free zone where it was not easy for the extremists to plot a major terrorist attack. Sunday's attack has shattered that myth and has opened a new front for the Pakistani authorities to prepare to grapple with.

There are several questions that arise in the backdrop of the Lahore blast. Are the Taliban attacking the Punjab as an act of retaliation due to what the Pakistan army describes as a successful military operation against the Taliban in the tribal region? After all, the bulk of the top army officers belong to the Punjab. One example of the Taliban resorting to such retaliatory action was the attack on the Army Public School in December 2014 that killed more than a hundred school children. The Taliban cited the military operation against them as the pretext for their deadly assault on the Army Public School. One wonders if the Taliban, by attacking Lahore, are testing their ability if they can expand their presence and operations in secure urban areas that were until recently considered inaccessible to them. An active presence of the Taliban in the Punjab should also alarm the neighboring India.

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Another question is whether the largely unacknowledged local supporters of the Taliban, often described as the "Punjabi Taliban", have finally been encouraged by the Taliban and the ISIS operations elsewhere in the Middle East and now they want to take this as the right moment to demonstrate their strength. Furthermore, Sunday's attack coincides with the shocking eruption and display of zealotry in urban Punjab in the aftermath of the execution of a police guard who murdered Salmaan Taseer, the former Punjab governor. When Mumtaz Qadri, who killed Governor Taseer because he accused the liberal politician of committing "blasphemy", was executed last month, tens of thousands of Pakistanis came out to pay him respect at his funeral. Many Pakistanis were shocked to see the extent to which religious extremism had penetrated among young, educated, urban fellow countrymen. The people who came out to pay homage to Qadri would perhaps not condemn Sunday's terrorist attack on innocent citizens because the Taliban also justify their actions in the name of Islam. That's where Pakistan's got a serious problem to address.

During the radio show, I agreed with my guest, Mr. Rumi, that the Pakistani government had taken some bold steps that would help the country move on the right direction. However, this is not going to be a painless process. The Taliban and their supporters in the mainstream media and almost all public institutions will resist any endeavors that are aimed at cleaning Pakistan of religious fanaticism. Even if the army and the civilian government genuinely decide to give up decades old policy of solely depending on Islam and anti-Indianism as unifying forces to keep Pakistan together, there is still much work to be done.

The army, which truly controls Pakistan, must work with the country's liberal and progressive voices instead of undermining them or trading them with religious extremists. The army should permanently abandon the religious lobby whether they are hiding in and fighting from the mountains in remote tribal regions or crippling Pakistan's roots while finding safe sanctuaries within the army, the judiciary, media, universities and all key state institutions.
The current Republican front-runner for president, Donald Trump, has made it clear that the Environmental Protection Agency is in line for serious cuts if he makes it to the White House. Mr. Trump noted this at several debates, reiterating the substance of what he told Chris Wallace in an interview for Fox News Sunday in late 2015. Talking about the EPA, he said, "What they do is a disgrace. Every week they come out with new regulations. They're making it impossible." Mr. Trump went on to maintain, "We'll be fine with the environment. We can leave a little bit [of regulations], but you can't destroy businesses."

When the electorate hears the sound bite, and Mr. Trump pitting EPA restrictions against business and jobs, it may resonate on the surface...but a deeper look shows that when neighborhoods are impacted by serious pollution threats, they quickly change their minds.

Porter Ranch, California experienced an "aha" moment around the dangers of fracking, methane leaks, and methane storage. Oregon is now coming to grips with what is shaping up to be a crisis of their own.

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Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with Rep. Earl Blumenauer, reached out to Gina McCarthy and the EPA via a letter dated February 12, which qualified toxic "hot spots" of air pollution in Portland emanating from facilities producing stained glass. As per the letter, due to a "regulatory loophole," these emissions slipped by the existing standards.

As ongoing stories filed by Rob Davis, the environmental reporter for The Oregonian/Oregon Live relates, the toxins in question didn't exactly slip by. Rather, the stained glass industry lobbied for an exemption.

Now that two specific factories have been targeted as emitting heavy metal toxins including lead, cadmium, and arsenic, the solidly populated vicinities adjacently located are quite concerned. Additionally, there are several schools in the area. Residents, worried about potential cancer risks, are looking into having their urine and blood tested.

On February 22, the Senators and Congressman sent a letter to the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Director for the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. They asked for "immediate assistance in responding to the public health risks identified by the discovery of hot spots of dangerously high levels of an airborne heavy metals in Portland, Oregon."

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I reached out to Sen. Merkley for a comment. He responded by e-mail:

"As a father who raised two children here in Portland, I understand and share the alarm of many Portland parents about finding these toxins in our community. Every American should be able to count on a safe and healthy environment for their family. I've joined with Senator Wyden and Congressman Blumenauer in pushing for answers, and will keep encouraging our federal regulators such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control to do everything in their power to keep Oregon families safe."

Why do people think that non-regulation of pollution is okay until it impacts them? A number of the article comments responded to the facts with statements that emphasized, "This is just the price we pay for the conveniences of modern life," or that the extent of regulation was invasive.

Ironically, when people are hit with a potential disaster, they want governmental assistance to solve the problem. Voters have to think very seriously about if they want to leave oversight of their safety solely to those operating at the state level.

Their backyard could be next. If elected, will they be able to call on President Trump to clean up the mess?

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In addition to being the month in which we turn ahead the clocks, welcome spring, and celebrate St. Patrick's Day, March is also National Social Work Month. This year's theme, "Forging Solutions Out of Challenges," brilliantly summarizes the impact that social workers are having on people's lives every day, across our nation. While many Americans may associate the social work profession with efforts to support struggling families, or with the thousands of practitioners who have earned social work degrees on the way to becoming psychotherapists, it's important to note that social workers also play a critical role in home health care organizations like the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, where I work.

In fact, social workers are integrated into virtually every aspect of our operations, including the interdisciplinary care teams who treat patients in their homes following surgery or acute illnesses. When a patient's coordinating nurse determines there's a need for social work support, that patient will get referred to a social worker like Kenia Alcantara, who works out of VNSNY Home Care's Bronx regional office.

A fluent Spanish speaker, Kenia relishes the chance to help each new client. She recalls arriving at the home of a newly assigned patient recently, only to find the elderly woman waiting for her outside the front door. "We stood talking for 15 minutes before she finally invited me in," says Kenia. "When she did, I could barely walk in the door. It turns out she's a hoarder, and was keeping nine cats in her apartment."

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Unable to find a clean chair to sit on, Kenia conducted her assessment standing up. She educated the patient about available services and then pulled out her phone to begin making referrals -- New York City Adult Protective Services, to assist with the hoarding situation, and VNSNY's Community Mental Health Services to assess the patient's mental health needs and link her to counseling. She also touched base with her interdisciplinary care team to confirm that the woman would be getting physical therapy visits in addition to home nursing care for her hypertension and diabetes.

Through it all, Kenia was careful to keep her patient informed about each step. "I tell everyone I work with, we're not here to change you but to help you take good care of yourself, so you can stay safe at home," she notes. For Kenia, seeing her clients in their home environment is a key to resolving their issues. "You see the whole person that way," she says. "You begin to understand why they're not taking their insulin, or realize that the reason their adult child isn't coming around is because the parent is shutting them out. Every patient has a different dynamic and different challenges. When I'm with a frail elderly woman who speaks no English and is overwhelmed by paperwork, and I can break everything down for her and make it manageable and obtainable so that she lights up with understanding, it's a great feeling."

Marilyn Dos Santos, a social worker with VNSNY Hospice and Palliative Care, uses the same sense of empathy and commitment to help patients and their families handle the challenges that arise at the end of life. Dealing with tricky family dynamics is commonplace in Marilyn's work. "The role of social workers in hospice is to help families negotiate uncharted territory," she says. "I always tell patients that in hospice we work as a team. The nurses help them with the stress inside their bodies, and I help them and their family members cope with the stress outside their bodies. I help them adjust to what's going on and give them a sense of control."

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To encourage families to open up, Marilyn often uses humor. "I'll ask patients and family members to pinkie swear about something. Nine times out of ten they'll laugh, and then they'll shake pinkies with me!" she chuckles. While she doesn't try to fix everything -- "If a family had trouble getting along before, they're not all going to suddenly get along now" -- she does try to get families to share their feelings and work through them. "My goal is to help everyone come together so their loved one can feel more peaceful during his or her last days."

Marilyn's work may also involve arranging for home health aides and making sure advance directives are in place and understood. If everything is going smoothly, she'll typically check in with a client every couple of weeks. "When it gets closer to the end, though, I visit more often, because that's when I'm really needed," she notes. "Patients need help acknowledging what's happening, and families need help with their feelings of helplessness and uncertainty."

Ultimately, says Marilyn, a big piece of what she does involves providing reassurance and the strength to deal with often unwelcome changes. "I have one elderly patient who is dying from Alzheimer's," she says. "She lives with her daughter, who looks after her every minute of the day. The daughter was the baby of the family, and she's having a lot of difficulty acknowledging that her mother doesn't have much time left. My goal is to help the daughter reach that point where she's ready to let go -- to help her accept that she's done a wonderful job taking care of her mom, and that now it's time to let nature take its course."

Social workers also play an essential role at VNSNY CHOICE Health Plans, which includes comprehensive managed long term care plans, helping members deal with everything from mental health issues -- administering depression screens and linking members to mental health services as needed -- to helping plan members and their family caregivers navigate Medicare and Medicaid and arranging for services like food stamps or housing assistance. "Sometimes I'm just giving support, listening to their concerns and encouraging them to do something they enjoy," says CHOICE social worker Grace Owen. "I work closely with our plans' coordinators of care, keeping them informed of what my interventions are and tracking what's happening in terms of medical follow-up."

We also have a wonderful group of psychiatric social workers who spearhead our community mental health teams, as well as social workers in our business development and private pay divisions who work through other avenues to address the mental, behavioral, emotional, and other social work needs of our patients and members.

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Social workers are filling these same vital roles at every home health care organization across the country. The outstanding and irreplaceable support they provide -- not only to patients, but also to the nurses, therapists and home health aides that they're collaborating with -- underscores the reality that effective home care is truly team endeavor.
Conservative lawmakers always want to punish someone. They see legislating as a way to crack down on those they do not like which usually includes anyone who does not look like them, practice their religion, sexual orientation or politics. Many are in fact bigots and their professed belief in small government is usually more of a license to practice exclusion and a lack of empathy and compassion than anything else. Therefore, the need to subject those on public aide to drug testing for little reason other than to stigmatize the group. The need to allow businesses to discriminate based on little more than a bias against gay marriage. And now in North Carolina, the need to punish transgendered people for being who they are by making it illegal for them to use washrooms of the sex they identify with.

The brouhaha in New Carolina began as a hasty response to the city of Charlotte passing a local non-discrimination law, which so upended conservative state lawmakers that they called a special legislative session to block the city from doing so. Nothing makes a conservative lose sleep at night like a demand for fair treatment and the subsequent loss of their professed God-given right to discriminate. The Charlotte ordinance simply banned public places from discriminating against people based on sexual orientation or identity, which seems innocuous enough and even high-minded. But fairness and inclusiveness is a vice in right-wing circles.

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North Carolina Republican legislators may as well say members of the LBGT community are not welcome in their state. They base the legislation on some distorted fear that rapists may put on dresses to pose as transgendered individuals and hide in restrooms to prey on women. Why that could not happen even with such legislation on the books is mind-boggling. I mean, if predators are going to hide in washrooms to commit sexual assaults they will do so regardless of the laws on the books governing the behavior of those in the transgendered community. The law accomplishes next to nothing!

Perhaps conservative legislators base it on the distorted fear that transgendered individuals are natural predators. After all, some on the right have linked the LGBT community to pedophilia. Of course, such fears are nonsense. According to Media Matters:

In fact, a 1995 study released by the American Psychological Association found that "gay men are no more likely than heterosexual men to perpetrate child sexual abuse," the argument that homosexuals are overrepresented in such cases is based on what John Hopkins University psychiatrist Frederick Berlin has described as the "flawed assumption" that men who abuse young boys are also attracted to grown men.

Members of the transgendered community just want to live their lives like the rest of us. After all, the group has an alarmingly high risk of suicide, of homelessness and unemployment. According to a recent study: "More recent data from non-random surveys of self-identified transgender people found that up to one third of respondents report making one or more lifetime suicide attempts." If surveys are correct, which would "suggest that at least one million people in the U.S. each year engage in intentionally inflicted self-harm," then that would put the suicide rate of the general population at less than one percent. Likewise, almost one-fifth of the transgendered population become homeless at some point in their lives because of their gender identity: "Overall, respondents reported being unemployed at twice the rate of the population as a whole." Therefore, some turn to sex work because of their limited choices.

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"No matter what else you were doing before you came here," Abel told us, "this week you were following in the footsteps of Jesus."

Our group sat around a dinner table with Abel, the Director of Hand in Hand Ministries. After our week together over February break building a house for Dorla and her daughter Darsha, Abel told us about all the good we had done and all the hope we had brought. On this last night of our service trip, Abel told us how the hope and goodness we brought would have a ripple effect far beyond what we could imagine. His words echoed in our hearts.

Last weekend on Palm Sunday, our students hosted a Belizean lunch. They shared the images of the trip that most stuck out to them- of Dorla asking once the four walls were up, "Can I sleep here tonight?", and of the "Welcome" sign that Dorla and Darsha made with leftover concrete at the bottom their new steps. But the most consistent sharing from the students? How hard it was to come back to Brandeis. How deep of a community we had built, and how each of us resonated with Abel's words that- for this week- we had truly followed in the footsteps of Jesus.

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How had we followed in the footsteps of Jesus? On the one hand, we had experienced a deep sense of community. In our modern technological world, we are often far too attached to our gadgets and social media. But as Jesus embodied, community is incarnational.

Besides community, two other things run through all of Jesus' ministry: prayer, and service.

"Now during those days he [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. And when day came, he called his disciples and chose twelve of them... He came down with them and stood on a level place...They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases." (Luke 6: 12-13, 17-18)

In his ministry, the first things Jesus does are call disciples, and spend time in solitude and prayer. From a place of God-centeredness, Jesus creates intentional community, and goes out to serve the "least of these."

Community for Jesus wasn't limited to his disciples and followers. In the gospels, Jesus spends most of his time with the outcasts, the "sinners", the tax collectors, and those on the margins. Jesus consistently is found with the poor, the sick, and the hungry. Jesus simply goes to the "least of these," eats with them, sleeps with them, and lives with them- even when he is criticized for doing so by those in power.

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The pattern of Jesus' ministry is clear- prayer, community, service.

On our service trip, we started each day together with a morning devotional. Most of our day was spent at the worksite with each other and with Dorla's family. We worked on building a home, but more importantly spent time connecting with Dorla and her family. In the evening, we reflected on our day together.

In other words, the rhythm of our days was spent in this Jesus pattern- prayer, community, service.

In any academic setting, it can be easy for ideas about social justice and solidarity with the poor to stay "heady" at the intellectual level. The radical thing about Jesus is that he not only talks a good game, but lives it. This is why Christianity is incarnational.

This Holy Week, death has been too ever-present in our minds and in our world with the bombing in Brussels. Together, we grieve that God's name was used to incite violence, hatred, and fear. In a world where God's name is used as a weapon, disembodied faith has little power.

That is why following in the footsteps of Jesus is so radical and counter-cultural. Jesus embodies a three-fold way of life: prayer, community, service.

Incarnational community is not always easy. During Holy Week, the community that Jesus is with abandons him, betrays him, and denies him. On the third day, when the grieving disciples discover that Jesus has risen, Jesus meets them with peace and forgiveness. Jesus embodies the unconditional, agape love that he taught. He doesn't just preach it. Jesus embodies forgiveness even when he is beaten, flogged, mocked, condemned, and executed on a cross. This is why, for me, no greater example of love is found than in the person of Jesus. Jesus gave up his life for his friends. Through the power of love and forgiveness, Jesus restores a broken, fractured community.

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Amidst an often isolating and autonomous culture, seeking to follow in the footsteps of Jesus is challenging. Taking time to connect with God, be intentional about community, and minister in the difficult places of life- of pain, hurt, and even of death- is not easy. Yet "only near the poor" says Richard Rohr, "in solidarity with suffering, can we understand ourselves, love one another well, imitate Jesus, and live his full Gospel. Jesus did not call us to the poor and to the pain only to be helpful; he called us to be in solidarity with the real and for own transformation." (1) On the last night of our trip, our group began to realize that though we had come to be of service and transform lives, we were the ones that had paradoxically been transformed.

Looking back on our week together, I picture Dorla's grin as we join hands for her house blessing. I hear Darsha's irrepressible joy and laughter. I know one house won't change the world. I know one house won't solve all injustice. But for one family, and for one group of college students, this one house brought us together and changed us in ways we never would have imagined. For me, nothing is more powerful.

At Easter time, this is the embodied, incarnational, resurrection faith of Jesus- faith that manifests as prayer, community, and service, always adding more love and forgiveness.
On Wednesday morning, a group of administrators convened by the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials gathered in the Capitol rotunda to ask for the completion of the budget. David Wytiaz, superintendent of the Aliquippa School District in Beaver County, said that as of May 1, the district would have less than $1,000 in its general fund checking account and be unable to meet payroll, obligations to vendors and a $1.1 million bond payment due June 1.

"As you can see, the present status is extremely fragile," he said. "We can no longer accept this stalemate to continue."
Governor of North Carolina Pat McCrory introduces candidate for U.S. Senate Thom Tillis (R-NC) at a campaign stop in Raleigh, North Carolina October 29, 2014. REUTERS/Chris Keane (UNITED STATES - Tags: POLITICS)

On Wednesday, March 23, the North Carolina Republican lawmakers held a special off-session meeting (at the tune of $42,000) to introduce a piece of anti-LGBT legislature under the guise of protection for women and girls. The bill was rushed through the House and the Senate (with the Democratic Senators walking out in protest) while Governor McCrory sat in his office, pen poised, to sign the bill into law late on Wednesday night. The whole process took less than 12 hours.

In a "Meet the Press" interview on Friday, I watched in disgust as Republican Representative Dan Bishop sat with a smug grin and called the bill a "return to common sense" because Charlotte had put the protection and safety of women at risk by their new LGBT-friendly ordinance.

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Once again, we hear from Republican lawmakers that a sexual predator has been waiting for the moment when putting on a dress and some lipstick will give him the access he needs to assault women and girls in bathrooms. Yes, because that's all that's been stopping him.

Let's be honest. This bill has nothing to do with the protection of women and girls in bathrooms and everything to do with how transgender individuals make the members of the North Carolina General Assembly uncomfortable. If this were really about the protection of women and girls then we would be hearing about tougher crackdowns on catcalling and men grabbing at women on subways, buses, and bars. We'd be hearing a lot more about victim shaming, the misogynistic treatment of women from the Republican front runner for President, and sexual assault in universities.

But we don't hear any of that. No, the North Carolina Republicans are only worried about women and girls in the bathrooms. They're on their own once they leave the safety of four walls and some porcelain.

It has already been demonstrated that laws that allow transgender individuals to use the bathroom of their affirmed gender have not resulted in an increase in sexual assault of women and girls. There are already laws in place that make assault (in any location) illegal. So why these bills?

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Because transgender individuals make the North Carolina Republicans uncomfortable. And like any schoolyard bully, they will target who they perceive to be weaker. Governor McCrory and Dan Bishop, you are bullies and bigots.

In a misguided attempt to protect women and girls, they have likely contributed to the assault and bullying of numerous LGBT youth in the North Carolina school system. By not allowing transgender kids the protection of using the bathroom of their affirmed gender, they are outing countless children who will now be forced into bathrooms that don't fit their gender identity and likely don't fit their outward appearance. Many of these kids have been using their affirmed bathroom for years, and this law will identify them as being transgender when schools are forced to deny them access to the bathroom they've been using.

Clearly, protection of women and girls only extends as far as those with the proper anatomy. If you're intersex or transgender, like my child, then the North Carolina Republicans don't care what happens to you. They don't care. Evidence shows that discrimination contributes to the high levels of depression and suicide in transgender youth and this bill just encouraged it. And if you read this article, that's probably what these people want.

By not allowing Charlotte to add the LGBT community to the class of individuals who are protected from discrimination they have openly declared that it is okay to discriminate against them. Their law now puts every public school in the state at risk of losing federal funds because they've made it illegal for public schools to adhere to the Title IX protection for transgender students. So now, instead of protecting women and girls, the state is at risk of losing $4.5 billion dollars of federal funds meant to ensure their girls and boys an education.

Every LGBT child who is bullied, every transgender individual who is assaulted, every business that loses money because of the backlash of this bill is their responsibility. Not because they are trying to protect women and girls. Because of their open discomfort with the LGBT community.

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Hitler and Mussolini

Fascism is back. Not just as a political expletive thrown at opponents. But as a doctrine, as a movement, and -- above all -- as a set of feelings. It has been easy to view fascism as a freak historical phenomenon of the inter-war period that was embodied by Mussolini, Hitler, Franco and one or two other minor characters. We assumed that the end of WW II relegated it to the history books. It ceased to be studied and was barely remembered.

In truth, Fascism was a far more formidable phenomenon. It swept much of Central and Eastern Europe with off-shoots in Japan and South America. It had organized supporters in democratic Western Europe as well. More than a movement that mobilized mass discontents, it drew from deeper grievances and anxieties endemic to modernizing societies. A look at the literature that it engendered makes that perfectly clear.

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Fascism was a political ideology that transcended religious and cultural boundaries. The Ba'ath parties of Iraq and Syria were of this order -- wholly secular and explicitly anti-religious. None of Saddam's crimes was committed in the name of Islam; he and Osama bin-Laden hated each other (Dick Cheney's self-serving fantasies notwithstanding). Then there are the hybrids that meld nationalism, Fascism and religion. The Spanish Falange stands out. World War II saw atrocities committed by the Hungarian Arrow Cross, the Romanian Iron Guard, the Croatian Ustashi, the Slovakian Hlinka Guard, and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) (   -- ...) -- today, recrudescent as Fatherland and associated neo-Nazi para-militaries (Azov and Donbass battalions). The Iron Guard was Orthodox. The others were all fiercely Catholic - the Slovak President, Joseph Tiso, was a Catholic who defied the Pope in his eagerness to deport Jews to the death camps. So, too, for the Lebanese Falangists.'

Against this historical backdrop, it should not be a complete surprise that due to the troubled state of the industrial West, across Europe and even in America, we should see recrudescence of the attitudes, the rhetoric and the inspirations that marked Fascism's rise 80 or 90 years ago. Some ingredients are recognizable: racist hate; scapegoating of the alien "other;" mounting feelings of insecurity -- economic, status, national; frustrated feelings of lost prowess; the scorning of elected democratic leaders condemned at once as "weak" and overbearing. In Europe, the potent brew is being stirred by mass immigration from the Muslim world which has created a sense of lost control and crisis. It most intoxicating effects are registering in the former Communist lands to the East where the multiple traumas of an historic transition have left psychic wounds that have yet to heal fully.

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These multifarious phenomena are not exact matches to the Fascism of an earlier era. They do bear some important similarities, though, that clarify their sources, their dynamic and their possible implications. So, it is worth noting the extraordinary essay by Umberto Eco (recently deceased) who composed a concise disquisition that presents the distilled essence of Fascism. Informed mainly by the Mussolini regime which he experienced personally, it has universal applicability.*

Eco identifies the eleven defining features of Fascism:

1. A mythologizing of tradition that glories innate virtues and heroic deeds

2. A rejection of Enlightenment ideals with their emphasis on rationality, individualism and the pleasure principle

3. The exalting of action for action's sake -- especially physical action with a penchant for violence

4. Intolerance for criticism from any source -- domestic or foreign

5. A stress on mystic unity that subordinates all particularisms

6. An articulation and amplification of the grievances and frustrations of those social strata who lack power and collective vehicles for effective political action

7. A cultivated sense of status denial or threat from combined internal and external sources

8. A doctrine built on the idea that "life is a struggle" whereby only the strong and resolute prevail

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9. Contempt for the weak stigmatized as life's losers and nature's failures

10. Conveying strength and will and superiority in sexual terms personified by the Hero/Leader

11. Elaboration of a special vocabulary build around cultish code words and symbols
Donald Trump, Angela Merkel, and Shinzo Abe each have become global lightning rods on the politics of immigration. Wittingly or not, the Republican front-runner, the German Chancellor, and the Japanese Prime Minister are each at the fiery nexus of one of the most sensitive and volatile global issues. Yet none of them has cast immigration within the framework of population aging. This is a mistake.

From both hostile and friendly leaders, immigration is often characterized as a source of class conflict, political tension, and social disruption. Yet, it is also true that immigrants can help solve 21st century elder caregiving needs; and 21st century elder caregiving needs can help solve the immigration crisis.

Population aging is sweeping the globe -- with the 80+ demographic growing faster than any other in countries all over the world, particularly in the U.S., Europe, and Japan. Meanwhile, birth-rates are falling, and the overall proportion of old-to-young is reaching a balance -- or an imbalance -- that just decades ago would have been inconceivable. And today is increasingly fiscally unsustainable.

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As there is an exploding demand for elder caregivers, there is the parallel truth of huge under supply. And it is today in the "rich" countries where immigrant populations can be a source of elder care for the outsized older populations in need of this caregiving. Set against the equally stunning reductions in birth rates that today and in the decades ahead will lead to fewer "working aged" people to fill the roles. It is, so to speak, a perfect storm of demographics and economics.

Sure, we do see evidence that elder caregiving demand might be solved by robots and other assistive technologies. Undeniably, there is a surge of exciting technologies and innovation that can help the "oldest old" remain independent and at-home for longer than ever before. Telemedicine and the "smart home," for example, are leaping forward.

Yet even with this potential, it's hard to imagine that we would leave our parents' care to be sourced solely through machines. The personal touch to caregiving remains too important.

This collision of immigration and robots illustrates a fundamental point: the aging of our population should be seen as a strategic screen through which economic growth can be achieved while simultaneously opening to new jobs.

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Talk to anyone in the elder caregiving world, and they agree that the eldercare gap is large and expanding. Those in the business sure know, such as Home Instead Senior Care. Those practicing gerontology and geriatrics would agree, as their community of specialists only numbers 7,000 in America and must expand to 17,000 to meet the needs of this fast growing demographic. And most of all the families themselves know, as they struggle to manage the "elder caregiving burden" on their own, as recently profiled by the National Alliance for Caregiving. Where we see the stress and anxiety among the older of our working adult children having to balance parents' caregiving needs with jobs.

Because, if you talk, too, to businesses who employ these family caregivers -- growing by the millions -- we're learning more and more that elder parents' caregiving duties are becoming a serious employer productivity issue.

Against all these challenges -- and the only partial role that robots will fill -- why not use the exploding demand for elder caregiving as a way to think and act differently toward those who want to come to America? Or to Europe and Japan? Or, better, aggressively open immigration channels for these and other jobs that are demanding to be filled.

This past summer, President Obama's White House Conference on Aging began to address this. In Europe, there are considerable efforts underway that connect these dots as a way to drive their 2020 Economic Growth Plan. And as the Japanese prepare for the use of robotics in elder care, they can teach the rest of us how to marry innovative technology with the most personal of human need. Prime minister Abe, Angela Merkel and President Obama could surely help by convening a conference on elder caregiving under the Japanese G-7 leadership, where they target the multitudes of immigrants from neighboring countries who want to contribute value to what they hope will be their new homes.

Moreover, this would follow perfectly from the targeting of Alzheimer's by Prime Minister Cameron of the UK when he led the G-7 last year. With 50% of all eldercare dedicated to Alzheimer's, the connection and need is clear. So, why not turn today's anti-immigration rhetoric on its head, and frame immigration as the solution for one of global society's greatest needs.

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If we get this right, we can solve two problems at once that are at the core of today's otherwise political tensions -- economic growth and job creation and immigration.

Earlier on Huff/Post50:
Ever wondered what the difference is between all those dark liquors? If you think they're all the same, think again. Whiskeys come in many forms, and we're here to help you distinguish between the three main types (bourbon, scotch and rye) plus show you a few cocktails to remember them by!

From craft cocktails to giant whiskey lists, dark spirits have been cropping up on more and more menus across the country. Check out what makes each unique, and the next time you're navigating the drink selection you'll be well equipped to order (and enjoy) the tasty spirit you really want.



Who should we thank for the different spellings of this popular spirit? Geography. "Whiskey" is produced stateside, while many other countries call their product "whisky." However you choose to spell it, this distilled alcoholic beverage is made from fermented grain mash (barley, corn, rye or wheat) and typically aged in charred white oak casks, giving it its distinctive brown color. Whiskey is a broad category of liquor and can have lots of differences in color, taste and smell.

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Photo provided by The Pig.

Washington D.C.'s The Pig, with over 70 choices on its menu, celebrates differing shades and nuanced flavors across a variety of whiskeys -- some perfect for sipping solo and others ideal for incorporating into a mixed drink.



If you're looking for a classic whiskey-based cocktail, the Boulevardier combines a good dose of whiskey with equal parts Campari (an Italian, bitter dark red liqueur) and sweet vermouth (a fortified wine flavored with botanicals like flowers, seeds and herbs):



Photo provided by Huertas. Photo by Nancy Borowick.

In the Boulevardier at Huertas in NYC, Michter's Whiskey and Contratto Bitters come together with a dash of the restaurant's own house-made Red Vermouth.

Ready for more? Several subsets lie within the "whiskey" category, all with subtle yet important differences...

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Technically, Scotch is whisky (spelled without the "e") that must be produced in Scotland, made from mostly malted barley and aged in oak barrels for three years or more. (The number following the name on a bottle of Scotch tells you how long it was aged.) Some Scotch tastes a lot like bourbon, but with a signature smokiness that lingers at the tail-end of a tasting. For this reason, some people avoid it, but for others, the acquired taste only makes the experience better.



Scotch is most often ordered "neat" (without ice) or "on the rocks" (with ice). When drinking Scotch neat, you may want to add a few drops of water, as this can help reveal the flavors of the liquor.

Purists drink their Scotch unadulterated, as its strong flavor profile doesn't tend to go well in mixed drinks. However, the Rob Roy -- named after Scottish hero Robert Roy MacGregor -- is a timeless cocktail that's favored by many a whiskey drinker and made with Scotch, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters and a maraschino cherry.



Rob Roy.



Bourbon, whose name comes from an area known as "Old Bourbon" in Kentucky, is a whiskey that's distilled from corn. For a whiskey to be considered bourbon, the grain mash must be at least 51 percent corn. On top of that, by law the mixture must be stored in charred oak containers and cannot contain any additives. From "Mad Men" episodes to modern nightclubs, neighborhood bars to interoffice gifts, bottles of bourbon have been popping up (and open) on our collective radar a lot in the last few years.



Both Scotch and bourbon are satisfying on their own, but also go particularly well with spice. Bottlefork in Chicago features the spirits in two drinks:

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Photo provided by Bottlefork.

"Differences of Character" has Bank Note 5 Year Blended Scotch Whisky, Allspice Dram (an allspice-flavored liqueur), ghost chili, lemon and honey, while "For the Allocation" includes Very Old Barton bourbon, Genepi des Alpes (an Italian herbal liqueur), plus Gran Classico and Regan's Orange Bitters.

For something a little sweeter, check out the Apple Barrel at Whetstone Tavern in Philadelphia:



Photo provided by Whetstone Tavern.

This one combines bourbon with Apfelkorn (a sweet, apple-flavored liqueur).

Or if you like things a bit more tart, try The Wishbone from Bowery Meat Company in NYC:



Photo provided by Bowery Meat Company. Photo by Jackie Gebel.

Cinnamon-infused bourbon, black peppercorn, lemon, egg white and bitters come together in this fresh take on the classic whiskey sour.

Finally, if you're on the hunt for a quintessential bourbon cocktail, get to know the Old Fashioned, where sugar and bitters are muddled together with a splash of soda, topped with ice and bourbon, and garnished with an orange wheel and a cherry:



Photo provided by Vernick Food & Drink. Photo by Jason Varney.

Vernick Food & Drink in Philadelphia stirs a classic Old Fashioned with bonded bourbon, sugar and bitters. By definition, bonded bourbon must be produced in one distillation season from one distiller, aged in a federally bonded warehouse under U.S. government supervision for at least four years and bottled at 100 U.S. proof (50 percent alcohol by volume). Whew!



Rye is a grass in the wheat tribe and closely related to barley.

"Rye whiskey" can refer either to American whiskey, which must be distilled from at least 51% rye and aged two years or more, or Canadian whisky, which may or may not actually include any rye in its production process. Full in body and spice, rye -- which had been playing second fiddle to its closest cousin, bourbon, ever since U.S. corn production increased in the decades following Prohibition -- has been making a steady comeback on cocktail menus across the country in the last decade.

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Rye's bold, slightly burning bite cuts right through sweet mixers, making for intense beverages with layers of flavor. Here are a few drinks featuring the zesty spirit:



Photo provided by Jardiniere.

At Jardiniere in San Francisco, the Darkest Dawn is a tasty sipper made with rye, Barolo Chinato (a fortified wine), Nocino walnut liqueur and bitters.



Photo provided by Freemans. Photo by Daniel Krieger.

At Freemans in NYC, the Freemans Cocktail features rye whiskey, simple syrup, pomegranate molasses, lemon and house-made orange bitters.

Yet another classic cocktail that you're sure to come across is the Vieux Carre. Rye-based and named for the French Quarter in New Orleans, legend has it that the drink was invented at city's famed Carousel Bar in the 1930s. Traditionalists make theirs with rye, sweet vermouth, Benedictine (a gold-colored, sweet liqueur first produced by Benedictine monks in the 16th century), Angostura bitters and Peychaud's Bitters (a lighter, sweeter and more floral version of Angostura bitters created in New Orleans around 1830 by the Haitian apothecary Antoine Amedee Peychaud).



Photo provided by SMYC.

At SMYC, the Vieux Carre includes Hine VSOP cognac, Sazerac Rye, Carpano Antica vermouth and Benedictine.

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In this one world, it sometimes seems a race is on between the newly empowered and the recently dispossessed. The truth is not only that both realities exist simultaneously, but that one is a condition of the other.

The fearful and fearsome reaction against growing inequality, social dislocation and loss of identity in the midst of vast wealth creation, unprecedented mobility and ubiquitous connectivity is a mutiny, really, against globalization so audacious and technological change so rapid that it can barely be absorbed by our incremental nature. In this accelerated era, future shock can feel like repeated blows in the living present to individuals, families and communities alike.

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People cross the street in the central business district in Hong Kong. (MIKE CLARKE/AFP/Getty)

Above all, the emergent world appears to us as wholly unfamiliar, a rupture with any lineage from the past that could frame a reassuring narrative going forward. Rather, the new territory of the future is described by philosophers as "plastic" or "liquid," shapelessly shifting as each disruptive innovation or abandoned certitude outstrips whatever fleeting sense of meaning was only recently embraced. A kind of foreboding of the times that have not yet arrived, a wariness about what's next, settles in. Novelists like Jonathan Franzen see a "perpetual anxiety" gripping society as, citing Marx, "all that is solid melts into air." Similarly, Orhan Pamuk, citing Wordsworth, speaks of "a strangeness in my mind," the sense "that I was not for that hour nor for that place."

Philosophers and social thinkers have long noted the relationship between such anxiety or sense of threat and the reactive fortification of identity. The greater the threat -- of violence, upheaval or exclusion -- the more rigid and "solitarist" identities become, as Amartya Sen noted in his seminal book "Identity and Violence." Intense threats, or their perception, demote other plural influences in the lives of persons and communities alike and elevate a singular dimension to existential importance. Conversely, stability, security and inclusivity generate adaptive identities with plural dimensions.

Intense threats, or their perception, demote other plural influences in the lives of persons and communities alike and elevate a singular dimension to existential importance.

We've seen this all before. In the early 20th century, widespread optimism, manifested so magnificently in those turn of the century World's Fairs and expositions, resulted from the great leaps in industrialization, urbanization, energy, communications, transportation and the transformation of the household with labor-saving appliances. But the sheen disguised the anxiety and resentment as settled patterns of life across the old empires of Europe were turned upside down and uprooted. Elites and masses alike sought refuge in nationalism, racial solidarity or class allegiance. Then, suddenly in the summer of 1914, it all burst to the fore and came crashing down in World War I, which ended with 16 million senseless deaths only to lay the groundwork for the next calamity less than two decades later that culminated in a shattered continent, Auschwitz, the Rape of Nanking and the nuclear devastation of Japanese cities.

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The lesson here is that political and cultural logic, rooted in identity and ways of life cultivated among one's own kind, operate on a profoundly different track than economic and technical logic.

View of the World's Fair, Paris, France, engraving 1889. ( Musee Carnavalet Paris

Us versus Them

Historical experience has regrettably demonstrated over and over again that the fundamental logic of practical politics is not about rational discourse, but about friends vs. enemies; us vs. them. It is about organizing the survival and thriving of a community as defined by those who are not part of it. Politics as we have so far known it is rooted in the particular soil of place and not in the universal territory of humanity as a whole or "the common good."

While it is true that culture is never static and always evolving into new hybrid forms through contact with others, its fusions and frictions don't always balance out. What appears to be cross-pollination can end up as "borrowed surfaces" while the deeper "volksgeist," or incommensurate values and ways of life embedded in a nation or a tribe, remain as the foundation of identity. This accounts for the surprises -- to Westerners -- of non-Western modernity in places like neo-Confucian China or neo-Ottoman Turkey that have not evolved according to the expectation that they would "become like us" and instead charted a future rooted in their own past.

The logic of economics and technology is about universality, efficiency and rationality. The triumph of the Enlightenment and modernization based on this logic, as the French philosopher Regis Debray has insightfully written, has not meant the eradication of deep culture or religious and tribal impulses, but only their displacement: "The anachronistic and the archaic all have their place in modern politics because 'modern' does not designate a location in time but a position in the terracing of influences, or determinations: not the outmoded but the substratum; not the antiquated but the profound; not the outdated but the repressed." It was this clear-minded perspective on human nature that prompted Debray to predict way back in 1986, long before the self-proclaimed Islamic State or Facebook, that the 21st century would feature both "God and computers." Deep culture always returns to shape a society. Culture is the substructure and economics and politics are the superstructure, not vice versa.

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Modern Superstition

Modernity maintains a superstitious faith in change. But change is no more an unalloyed good than insistence on orthodoxy or traditional order. All we know is that the pursuit of pure states of being -- whether of ideal pasts, utopian futures, races or religions -- is in the end totalitarian and in conflict with the diverse disposition of human nature.

It is this yearning for the imagined purity of identity in what is seen as a contaminated world that also drives the defensive ideology of political Islam to ferocious ends. Absent a dominant center of authority since the end of the Ottoman Caliphate, all manner of sects, notably these days the Islamic State, are asserting their own interpretations of Islam. In Syria and Iraq, they will surely battle it out with the Shia center of power in Iran at least as long as the Thirty Years' War within Christianity between Protestants and Catholics.

The pursuit of pure states of being -- whether of ideal pasts, utopian futures, races or religions -- is in the end totalitarian and in conflict with the diverse disposition of human nature.

As we've also seen in Brussels, Paris and elsewhere, this defensive assertion of identity also attracts the unassimilated children of Muslim immigrants in Europe. The welcoming womb of what they believe is a pure ideal of Islam is a natural attraction to those alienated, atomistic individuals at the margins of society pushed around like so many detached elementary particles. Today's jihadists that come from within the West are not unlike Dostoyevsky's "superfluous men" of late 19th century Russia who turned to nihilistic terrorism.

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An undated photo of Abdelhamid Abaaoud was published in the Islamic State's online magazine Dabiq. The deceased Belgian national is suspected of being behind the Paris attacks. (Reuters)

It is also a matter of scale since norms and values are rooted in the earthy virtue of place. "A discrepancy exists between the benefits of globalization on the one side and the values shared by diverse communities on the other," says Pascal Lamy, who headed the WTO from 2005-2013. "The benefits of globalization go with magnitude, with size. The larger, the better because of the economies of scale. Big is beautiful. Identity, legitimacy and politics go with proximity, the small and diseconomies of scale. Small is beautiful."

Thus, while universal reason and efficiency engender the convergence we see today with globalization and the spread of technology, the cultural and political imagination engender the opposite -- a divergent search for shelter in the familiar ways of life that register a dignity of recognition among one's own kind and constitute identity against the swell of anonymous forces.

While universal reason and efficiency engender the convergence of globalization and the spread of technology, the cultural and political imagination engender the opposite -- a divergent search for shelter.

The challenge in governing human affairs today is whether these two sets of logic can be brought into balance before social upheaval so disruptive that our bold leap forward will propel our societies several reactionary steps backward into the kind of wars and divisions we saw in the 20th century, or worse, into some post-modern version of the dark ages in medieval Europe.

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The alternative to both a Tower of Babel singularity or a retrograde splintering into isolated shards of tribal or religious intolerance is a new governing philosophy of what Pope Francis calls "reconciled diversity" that delivers the goods inclusively while assuring human dignity. Building such a world is a far more daunting and concerted task than tearing it apart. But that is what it will take.

Also on WorldPost:
US President Barack Obama delivers a speech at the Gran Teatro de la Habana in Havana on March 22, 2016. President Barack Obama said that Cubans should be free to speak without fear, should not be detained for their thoughts and should embrace democracy, in a speech televised across the Communist-run island Tuesday. AFP PHOTO/ Nicholas KAMM / AFP / NICHOLAS KAMM (Photo credit should read NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images)

On his last day in Havana, President Barack Obama addressed a brilliant speech to the Cuban people, the climax of a historic visit -- between March 20th and 22nd -- to the socialist nation considered as an enemy until December, 17th, 2014. "In America" -- Obama said -- "it's still possible for somebody like me -- a child who was raised by a single mom, a child of a mixed race who did not have a lot of money -- to pursue and achieve the highest office in the land." These words raised an unexpected question to myself: Would a Black Cuban ever become president in the island? What present and history have actually shown is the scant presence of Blacks in the wealthiest and most influential sectors of Cuban society; while they remain majoritarian in disempowered and poorer strati, and in prisons, of course. This situation, denounced in recent years by intellectuals, scholars, artists, and activists is blatantly evident for every visitor discovering that not only the owners but neither the clients of the most prosperous businesses are rarely Blacks.

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This is the Havana where Obama landed with Michelle, Malia, Sasha, and his mother-in-law; followed by a large delegation that included other African-American personalities, such as Jackie Robinson's widow and daughter. It is thus understandable why this visit -- the first U.S. presidential visit to Cuba in 88 years -- might have had a significant impact, particularly for Cubans of African Descent. For them, it is unusual to have the opportunity to publicly celebrate not only a powerful Black man but also his family. Their presence made clearly visible something that wasn't of course inexistent in Cuba, but has been historically denied or misrepresented: Black agency. It is undeniable that many Black Cubans has always excelled as great patriots, intellectuals, artists, scientists, politicians, but their achievements are rarely explicitly acknowledged as part of an Afro-Cuban legacy. When Afro-Cubans receive public recognition, they are praised as raceless Cubans. As a result, contemporary Black Cubans have to strive to recover their own history, rewrite it, and find their very own historic role models.

In Cuba -- as throughout the Americas -- Blacks are not commonly associated with Power, which explains why the arrival of the First Family heightened a sharp contrast, particularly in images showing the encounters of Barack and Michelle Obama with their Cuban governmental hosts. Perusing these images, the racial imbalance of the Cuban power was barely attenuated by the persistent yet isolated appearance of one or two Black male members of the revolutionary elite -- such as Esteban Lazo, President of the National Assembly of the People's Power, who was conveniently displayed near Barack Obama at some specific events, like the State dinner at the Palace of the Revolution. In a country which last census (2012) estimated that 35.86 percent of its population was Black and Mixed-race, Lazo is one of the only five Blacks that can be included within the actual Cuban nomemklatura, composed by some 131 members.

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But the attempts of the Cuban political elite to appear more diverse weren't extended beyond the doors of the Palace of the Revolution. When the First Lady met with young Cuban women we didn't see Afro-Cubans faces. Likewise, images documenting her visit to the "Ruben Martinez Villena" library, where she and her daughters planted magnolias and donated a bench, seemed to have been taken in an European country rather than in Habana Vieja, a part of the city with a strong Afro-Cuban population.

Yet the Obamas aren't the first African American celebrities who have recently set foot in the streets of Havana. After filming the Cuban chapter of his series Blacks in Latin America, "Cuba, The Next Revolution", Harvard Professor Henri-Louis Gates Jr. has almost become a new Havana neighbor himself. In addition, some successful Black couples have disrupted the Eurocentric Cuban imaginary since Beyonce and Jay-Z chose Havana in April 2013 to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary, collecting the sincere enthusiasm of the crowd. But the most spectacular Havana bain de foule was received last year by Rihanna, who adventured herself in the streets of El Cerro -- a notoriously neglected neighborhood -- even practicing some Cuban dance steps in the sweaty ballroom of La Casa de la Musica. Right after her Vanity Fair's photo shoot under the lenses of Annie Leibovitz, Rihanna was spontaneously surrounded by Cubans of all races, although the presence of Blacks was significant.

President Obama couldn't mingle with the crowd and hadn't the opportunity to capture the real life in impoverished neighborhoods, but he was aware of the pervasiveness of racial inequality in the island. In his speech to the Cuban people, he expressed the willingness that the Cuban/US engagement will help lift up Afro-Cubans, "who have proven there's nothing they cannot achieve when given the chance." Made in a nationwide broadcasted event, this was an unequivocal recognition of Black Cuban agency, which constitutes an extraordinary occasion for Afro-Cubans. Today, must images of Cuba tend to ignore the real agency of its people of African Descent; an agency not limited to their performance as musicians, dancers, and athletes but rather as Cubans voicing their own messages and working together to change their situation. Which was an idea that Obama repeated throughout his stay in Havana: the present and the future of the island is the responsibility of all Cubans.

Meeting with self-employed entrepreneurs, President Obama remarked the need to offering everyone the chance to succeed, "including women and Afro-Cubans," he insisted. The challenge now is how to give Black Cubans access to the same opportunities their fellow citizens enjoy. In the early years of the revolution, the racial gap was undoubtedly addressed through policies intending to eradicate all kind of inequalities, by providing equal access to high quality health care, education, culture, housing, and employment. But we live now in a present driven by totally different economic and social dynamics. Recent reforms, while encouraging small entrepreneurship, have also promoted the rising of a wealthier class in the island. The capital invested in new business is generally provided by relatives or friends living abroad. Blacks are less likely to receive substantial remittances, since the majority of wealthy exiled Cubans are White. Is in this type of situations where I see the real obstacles to President Obama's good intentions to help disempowered Cubans. In addition, Black Cubans and Black Cuban-Americans have a scarce representation in the current negotiations between the United States and Cuba. At least, this is what the publicized images of these meetings show. It also seems that very few Black Cubans were among the entrepreneurs invited to meet with Obama during his stay in the island.

By the last minutes of his groundbreaking speech, President Obama confirmed that, instead of asking the people of Cuba to tear something down, he was encouraging young Cubans to build something new; and insisted that President Castro shouldn't see the United States as a threat. Now, if the United States abandons its role as the enemy against which the Cuban identity has been shaped through more than half a century, then this identity adamantly preserved by many Cubans in the island and abroad must be revised. Under the imperative of maintaining national unity in the face of counterrevolutionary aggressions in the 1960s and 1970s, the struggle against racial discrimination was once considered instrumental by the government. Though it was also for the sake of national consensus that racial identification has been obliterated in Cuban history under the weight of a mythic concept of nationhood. When racial segregation was officially ended in 1959, difference was supposed to be diluted within the masses facing a common enemy (the United States), sharing a single tradition, and immersed in the building of tropical socialism. But, today, when the confrontation between the two countries is fading, what would prevent Black Cubans from expressing their racial concerns, presenting their own agenda, rethinking the nation in their own terms?

Before the arrival of Barack Obama, Cubans were already under the challenge of reinventing new strategies of identification. In recent years, the denunciation of the scars left in the Afro-Cuban existence by slavery, discrimination, inequality and racial prejudice, has shown the necessity of bringing into the light of day a discussion always muzzled.

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As the current oil price crisis leads to some game-changing upheavals in the global energy market, Asia's two powerhouses, China and India, are taking advantage of the supply glut to rewrite the long-established rules of business.

India and China have seen exponential growth in oil demand over the past 25 years. Combined, they consume 16 percent of the world's oil--second only to the U.S. at 20 percent. And analysts expect that by 2040, these two growing economies will double their combined consumption to 30 percent. These are game-changing numbers that have all major producers seeking inroads to this territory.

Most spectacularly, new trade routes are being established and Indian refiners are moving away from long-term contracts with Middle East nations, favouring African spot purchases, reports Reuters.

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At the start of the decade, Russia supplied about 7 percent of total imports to China, compared to 20 percent supplied to China by Saudi Arabia. However, Russia has overtaken the Saudis as the largest supplier to China four times in 2015, which is significant because Saudi Arabia had lost the top spot only six times in the preceding five years, according to data from RBC Capital markets.

RBC Capital Markets' commodity strategist Michael Tran pointed out that seven countries have beaten the growth rate achieved by Saudi Arabia in the past five years, as shown in this chart.

"Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is losing its crown as its selling prices in Asia haven't been attractive enough," claimed Gao Jian, an analyst at SCI International, a Shandong-based energy consultant, to Bloomberg in June 2015.

On the other hand, Nigeria overtook Saudi Arabia as the largest supplier to India back in 2015, as reported by Reuters. As the premium of the Nigerian crude over Brent reduced, large Indian complex refiners, such as Reliance, used the opportunity to load up on the superior quality Nigerian crude at discounted rates.

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Both China and India are using their size to grab sweet deals--and the suppliers are ready to accommodate them thanks to the ongoing oil glut.

India imports 80 percent of its oil requirements, and under current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is progressively moving towards energy security. "If we want to go anywhere close to self-sufficiency we have to go for assets abroad," said Sudhir Vasudeva, former chairman and managing director of Indian state-run explorer Oil & Natural Gas Corp., reports Bloomberg.



That brings us to Russian Siberia. Here, three Indian companies will purchase a 29.9-percent share in Taas-Yuriakh Neftegazodobycha and a 23.9-percent stake in Vankorneft. Oil & Natural Gas Corp., a government-run Indian refiner, was offered additional 11 percent stake (from Russian Rosneft) in Vankorneft to its existing 15 percent stake purchased in September 2015, according to Sunjay Sudhir, joint secretary for international cooperation at India's oil ministry, as reported by Bloomberg.

Currently, Siberian oil is supplied to closer regions; however, India can decide to ship its share from these fields to the domestic refineries, it can also sell the oil in the open market or use to barter it for oil from elsewhere.

"Asian oil markets are in a tremendous period of flux," said Owain Johnson, managing director of Dubai Mercantile Exchange (DME), reports Reuters.

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"Chinese oil companies have become the new powerhouses in oil trading," said Oystein Berentsen, managing director of crude at Strong Petroleum in Singapore.

China is planning for Shanghai crude futures to have a greater say in crude pricing.

Both China and India are using the drop in oil prices and the existing oil gut to their advantage. New partnerships are being formed and steps are being taken, which undermine the erstwhile major players. Each crisis brings about a change, and the current one is shifting the power from the suppliers to the consumers.
It's been a while since I had anything much to say, but I read the Huff every day and get my daily dose of political news, opinions, and insight. I may not agree with everything I read, but I'm glad for the fact that someone took the time to write what they had to say, and was able to share it. They expressed a viewpoint, no matter how absurd or extreme, and brought it to the attention of millions around the world.

Of course, such is the power of the internet. We are deeply-rooted now in the Social Age. When people look back on the 1960s through the late 1980s, when we ushered in the personal computer, the cellphone, and the satellite, there is probably no doubt in their minds that information is now, more than ever in the history of the world, power.

Depending on the way you wield it, you can have a very adverse effect on the whole world.

So, I'd like to ask a few million people, who feel so strongly positive about the idea of President Donald J. Trump, a question, if I may - seeing as how I'd probably never get a face-to-face, sit-down discussion with any of you, mostly due to my complete disgust.

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Why are you so angry?

I think this question deserves an answer. If there is some personal reason you're upset that has nothing to do with politics at all, I would advise seeking some psychological therapy or joining a yoga class. If you're constantly angry for no real reason at all, prescription pills might be advisable, or maybe you should cut back on the smoking and/or drinking.

I'll ask again, why are you so angry?

Take a few moments before you answer, please, because there are several answers you can give. You might be angry because you can't find a job, and are always strapped for cash. Your unemployment benefits probably don't help much, and you're angry that people in places like India seem to have better lives than you, because they have the jobs you're meant to have.

Tell me something. Have you ever been to India? How can you possibly believe that your life is worse off than someone else's thousands of miles away? How would you like earning four dollars a day, working 10 or 12-hour shifts?

Not so nice, is it? Do you think jobs like that would ever fly here in the United States? Of course not, because we have a minimum wage program, first adopted by King Edward III in England, and eventually brought into law here in the United States in 1938 by Franklin D. Roosevelt, considered by many to be the greatest president since Washington that ever lived.

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But a lot of you seem to be angry that some Indian man or woman took your job worth thousands of dollars a month, and is now struggling to make ends meet on four dollars a day, and you can't be bothered to go out and find another job.

So, again, why are you so angry?

Are you upset that immigrants illegally staying in this country seem to want only to kill and destroy Americans? That's what a Donald Trump ad might have you believe. Jamiel Shaw, a father in South Carolina, supported Trump in an ad about his son, 17-year-old Jas Shaw, who was gunned down by a gang member named Pedro Espinoza, an illegal immigrant from Mexico. Because of this heinous act, they now believed that all illegal immigrants have the desire to join gangs and kill innocent children.



And yet, Tamir Rice, a 12-year-old child who was gunned down by two police officers - both American citizens and not illegal immigrants - for playing with an air-gun and trying to show it to them, have never been brought to trial. Have we heard a word from Mr. Trump about this?

By the way, Pedro Espinoza was caught, tried in a court of law, found guilty of murder, and sentenced to death. Mr. Shaw apparently left out the fact that his son's killer will soon be dead as well. So he's paying the ultimate price for murdering his son, which is what should happen to people who perpetrate heinous acts.

The National Gang Center, in its survey of the factors that influence gang-related crimes, reported that the migration of gangs from other countries outside the United States is the smallest of factors, and in fact has dropped significantly since 2011, thanks in no small part to tighter regulations and enforcement at the borders. It also should be noted that the bulk of gang-related murders are probably perpetrated by pure, home-grown United States citizens. The FBI reports over 33,000 street gangs consisting of 1.4 million people are at work here in the United States.

Here's a thought. Perhaps instead of blaming nearly 11 million people whose only real crime is never registering to be a citizen, maybe we should be coming down a little harder on gang activity...?

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If Pedro hadn't gunned down Jamiel Shaw's son, and another gang member had, wouldn't Jamiel logically still be angry with the killer, whoever it was?

Which begs the question: What if Pedro had been Jewish or Rom? Or Muslim?

Oh right, let's talk about Muslims a moment.

Are you angry because it seems like every Muslim in the world is out to become a suicide-bomber? That's what Trump wants you to believe. In fact, he's all in favor of forcing Muslims to register, taking down their mosques, and even going so far as to track their every move. Worse, he wants to keep Muslims from even coming into the United States altogether. This is, without question, unconstitutional to the hilt.

And yet, you seem okay with this violation of religious freedom, one of our basic rights as American citizens.

How about if we took rights away from the Christians? The Catholics? How about the Southern Baptists?

Did you know Timothy McVeigh, one of the perpetrators of the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, was raised Catholic? Or that Jim Jones, who led nearly a thousand people to death in Guyana in 1978, was Christian?

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Donald Trump seems to think terrorism is based solely on religion, and that is a very stupid, clueless attitude to have.

Terrorism has and will always be based on one thing:

People. Not religion.

One of many things Trump just doesn't understand.

So, again, why are you so angry?

Are you angry because the rich and powerful seem to be in control of this country? Do you not realize that is exactly the kind of man you are supporting right now? Someone, from the time he was barely out of his 20s, has wanted only to get out from under the shadow of his sadistic, KKK-supporting father, and make a name for himself.

Not for others.

Himself.

He once owned a minor-league football team, then challenged the mighty National Football League, and quit when he didn't get his way. He once owned a massive real estate chain in Manhattan, aimed to takeover the Plaza Hotel, but lost it when he didn't get his own way, in nearly a billion dollars of debt.

Don't you see it? He is mad for power and prestige. And if you put him into the highest seat in the land, all you're going to do is make him richer - while you remain poor.

And for some reason, you're okay with this.

Are you angry because the United States now enjoys a very low unemployment rate and recently had the lowest jobless claims in over forty years? Are you angry because the housing market, completely destroyed by the ultra-rich, has flourished once again? Are you angry because millions of people around the nation now have quality, affordable healthcare? That our country's economy has rebounded with the force of a hurricane, and the Federal banks look poised to raise the interest rate soon?

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Or...are you angry because a black man was able to make all this happen...?

I need to stop writing now, because I'm starting to feel angry.

I'm angry at all of you, not just for clinging to these childish, trivial matters, but because you are trying to put a great big, rich child into the Oval Office, whereupon you will utterly destroy the Republican Party, the very same party you say you support.

I'm angry because you simply don't understand the irreparable harm you are trying to do to our country, to our personal lives.

You are going to hurt millions of people.
Donald Trump speaking at CPAC 2011 in Washington, D.C.Please attribute to Gage Skidmore if used elsewhere.

Reprinted With Permission The National Interest

Compare your own foreign policy views with that of Donald Trump in the companion video to this article!

Those who insist Donald Trump has no foreign policy have simply not been listening. The "Trump Doctrine" is as clear as a reveille bugle piercing the dawn at Fort Bragg; and it's a page right out of Ronald Reagan's playbook: Peace through economic and military strength.

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Trump knows the key to keeping America safe in an increasingly dangerous world is to "make America great again." Only through broad-based economic renewal will this country have the fiscal firepower to end its budget sequestration lockdown of the Pentagon and fully fund the military it needs to defend itself.

From this Reaganesque perspective, cutting the corporate tax rate and cracking down on unfair trade practices to increase America's GDP growth rate are just as potent weapons of comprehensive national power as the additional F-35s and navy ships the increased tax revenues from that renewed growth will bring.

As for how a President Trump would specifically deal with an emerging "whack-a-mole" world of strategic rivals:

#1: The ISIS Beheading Machine

The best way to kill the ISIS beheading snake is to cut off its own financial head in two ways: Precision bomb any oil fields that it may be using as a cash register and "follow the money" through the Internet and expropriate it.

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Trump is fully aware of Nietzsche's admonition to beware that "when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster." Trump also knows that when you are facing an enemy willing to suicide bomb your sons and daughters and randomly cut off heads, you must strike equal fear into that enemy. Under a Trump Administration, no ISIS member will be immune from sudden death, the cells of Guantanamo will be fuller, and America will be safer.

#2: The Oil and Water of Iran and Israel

Trump believes as the strange bedfellows of Saudi Arabia and Israel do that the Obama Administration made a TERRIBLE deal with Iran. The removal of sanctions will allow this fascist, terrorist state to simultaneously restore it economy and continue to develop capabilities to deliver nuclear warheads as near as Riyadh and Tel Aviv and as far away as Brussels and eventually New York.

President Trump will abrogate that deal on Day One. As Commander in Chief, he will maintain both economic and military pressure on a true Great Satan that has pledged to destroy Israel and dreams of ruling a new Middle Eastern Caliphate.

As for Israel, Trump clearly regards this democratic state as America's most important ally in the Middle East. However, Trump, along with most Americans (Jews and non-Jews alike), parts ways with those hardliners who insist there can be no deal brokered between Israel and the Palestinians. You cannot have peace unless you are willing to negotiate.

#3: From Russia, With Revanchism

Trump recognizes Vladimir Putin for the clever, ruthless, charismatic chess master he is. Putin has, indeed, run strategic circles around both America and its NATO allies when it comes to its adventures in Crimea, Ukraine, Syria, and former Socialist Republics like Georgia and Latvia.

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For his part, Putin recognizes Trump as a strong and fearless leader who will draw clear red lines in Europe and the Middle East that Putin dare not cross. This is a far better and safer situation for America than a status quo that leads from behind and inspires far more contempt than respect.

#4: The Hegemon of China

Trump will no longer tolerate a mercantilist China having its way with America's factories and jobs. He will firmly crack down on unfair trade practices like illegal export subsidies, currency manipulation, and intellectual property theft and bring American jobs and factories home.

That's not just good trade policy. It's good foreign policy, too, because the fountainhead of China's rapidly advancing military strength has been its ability to economically grow much faster than its strategic rivals. In other words, by rebalancing trade between the US and China, Trump will also rebalance the military equation.

#5: Equal Alliances, Not Wards of the American Taxpayer

Trump has made both noise and headlines about revamping America's alliances - from Europe's NATO to Asia. Trump knows the problem here is not that these alliances are not useful to the defense of the American homeland. As World War II painfully taught us, they surely are.

Rather, Trump is simply tired of the U.S. having to foot the lion's share of the bill for the dubious "privilege" of protecting wealthy nations unwilling to spend the requisite funds to defend their own homelands. Consider, here, that while the US spends fully 3.5% of its GDP on defense, Japan is at a measly 1.0%, Germany is at 1.1%, and even South Korea, with an absolute madman on its border is at 2.6%. All Trump is looking for here is a better deal for American taxpayers.

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#6: Trump's "Distributed Network" of Advisors

In laying out his Trump Doctrine, the candidate has assiduously avoided surrounding himself with a circle of advisors simply. He has done so both because he is exceedingly well read and, far more importantly, he has "off the record" access to a broad distributed network of experts around the world -- as well as an inner circle that stays out of the limelight..

From his own detailed foreign policy research over many years -- required due diligence to conduct business globally -- Trump has developed a strong aversion to the kind of "nation building" that dragged America into wasted and protracted wars in God-forsaken killing fields like Iraq and Afghanistan. Accordingly, Trump has promised himself -- and the American people -- he will not be shedding the blood of any American soldier either in vain or under the vanity banner of American Exceptionalism.

In this way, Trump is in tune with an American public that is not just tired of war but ready for a renewed prosperity that will be the best catalyst for an ultimate peace based on true American power.

_______

Peter Navarro is a professor at the University of California-Irvine. He is the author of Crouching Tiger: What China's Militarism Means for the World (Prometheus Books) and director of Death By China, a documentary history of China's entry into America's markets. Contact www.crouchingtiger.net.
The Nanu-Muscel House is one of the solitary architectural jewels left to remind Bucharest, Romanian's capital, of its pre-communist glory. Its resemblance to the French capital allowed it to be dubbed in the inter-war period 'the little Paris.' Sitting next to the Economic Studies Academy of Bucharest in a key historic area of the city, Piata Romana, the house has been left to decay for years. After purchasing it in 2013, the Academy decided to modernize the historical building by attaching a seven-story glass construction behind it to house research offices. Imposing a modern addendum on historical buildings has become a standard practice in Bucharest, whenever the houses are considered important enough not to be simply torn down illegally or let to decay for years before capitulating to time's merciless pressure and collapsing on their own.

Two other invaluable historic buildings, the Stirbei Palace and the Oromolu Villa, are hounded by modernization initiatives. In exchange for its restoration, the Oromolu Villa has received a three-stories office building behind it, while Stirbei Palace contends to become the first palace-shopping mall in Europe. These modernization initiatives raise substantial questions regarding their legality and the collusion between real estate agents and local authorities in sealing questionable deals that are detrimental to the city's history and architectural integrity.

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In the case of the Nanu-Muscel House, two Romanian civil society organizations have taken to court to contest the construction authorization issued by the Bucharest Mayor's Office for the seven-story building addendum. They argue that it represents a breech on the 422/2001 Law on the Protection of Historical Monuments, which requires a Ministry of Culture approval, since the Nanu-Muscel House has been classified as a historical building in 2013.

In an interview, Roxana Wring, the President of Pro.Do.Mo, one of the nonprofits, argued that the project would be toxic for the Romanian society, and that their efforts are focused on protecting the Nanu-Muscel House and the historic area, Piata Romana, in which it is located. Built in the late 19th century and combining architectural elements of the Louis XV and XVI styles, the Nanu-Muscel House belonged to a professor and his wife, who donated it in 1940 to house retired teachers and students. There were originally two buildings, but the auxiliary one has already been abusively demolished in 2007.

A press release of the Academy announced that the restored historical house would become a cultural space, which would host the Academy's Museum, the Cecilia Cutescu-Stork Gallery of Art and spaces for the cultural-artistic activities. The seven-story glass building would, in turn, be used as research and innovation laboratories and office space. Additionally, a three-level underground parking lot would be built to provide parking spaces for the university professors. The construction, started in July 2015, is set to end in 2018, a questionably long period of time for an initiative of its scale.

Some of the companies responsible for the construction process have been involved in highly controversial previous businesses. SC Popp & Asociatii, responsible for ensuring the structural frame of the Nanu-Muscel project, provided the same product for arguably the most notorious illegal construction in Bucharest, Cathedral Plaza. Built next to the Catholic Cathedral in the Romanian capital, Cathedral Plaza, one of the tallest buildings in the city, was found to lack the appropriate authorizations from the Mayor's office and was ordered to be demolished, by multiple courts in the country. The latest decision on the case was issued in September 2015 by the Appellate Court of Ploiesti, with the demolishing process yet to be initiated.

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Similarly, SC Palex, the general entrepreneur of the Nanu-Muscel project, has been involved in deals with the First Sector Mayor's office, who was eventually suspended and is currently under investigation. The company was hired to conduct thermic rehabilitation of apartment blocks in the mayor's sector. The mayor was accused of being part of an organized criminal group, which committed acts of corruption, by favoring businesses in gaining public projects in exchange for commissions of 10 to 15 percent of the initiatives' total value. Romania's Anti-Corruption Department (DNA) confiscated and is currently analyzing the contracts signed by SC Palex with Sector One's mayor. Despite these contested affairs, in December 2015, SC Palex, in a consortium with two other agencies, was granted another rehabilitation project, worth $220 million, by the mayor of sector 3.

The Nanu-Muscel House is not the only historical building in Bucharest that could be butchered through a modern addendum. The Oromolu Villa, the only edifice in Victoria Square, which survived former Romanian dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu's questionable urbanization efforts, has almost finished being upgraded with a three-stories high glass office space appendix. The new building will be L-shaped and surround the House on two sides. Built in the Louis XVI style at the beginning of the 20th century, the Oromolu Villa was once the residence of Romanian's national governor. Its architect, Petre Antonescu, is responsible for building some of the key landmarks in Bucharest, including the Arch of Triumph, the Kretzulescu Palace and the Mayor's office.

In 2004, the property was returned to Oromolu's successors, who had already signed pre-contracts with Central AH Pioneer SRL, which became the owner in 2005. The House was mortgaged in 2005 and 2010 to obtain bank loans. The last loan was found to be particularly suspicious. Taken from Telecom & Technology BV, a Dutch company, the loan is problematic since, in the real estate register excerpt, it is featured at 10 million euros, but, according to the mortgage contract, it only appears to be 5 million. The affair was even more dubious since the owner of Central AH Pionner, Central and Eastern European Investment Fund Limited (CEERES), until recently had the same address as the firm from which it took out the loan. According to the National Journal, this latter company is much smaller than the borrowing one and wouldn't have the financial capacity to provide this sum of money.

In 2011, the Villa entered the property of New Europe Property Investment (NEPI), a South African company, which is currently one of the biggest real estate investors in Romania. NEPI received the Villa as part of a concession from Avrig 35, a key real estate company in Romania. Despite the fact that Villa Oromolu is in an invaluable area of Bucharest, situated right next to the Romanian Government's building, NEPI has, however, argued that it didn't want the building. It considered the project that it is has almost completely as untenable and more as a prestige endeavor to demonstrate its commitment to Bucharest's history, more than anything else. There are also considerable questions regarding the beneficiary of this project, a company called 'Victoriei Office Building" SRL, which although having fixed assets of around 12-13 million euros, currently has no employees. Despite these important questions that seem to have surrounded the project since its onset, it is almost finished with the office building to be leased starting this summer.

Substantially less smooth has been the decision to construct a mall addendum intended for the Stirbei Palace, a key historical monument in Bucharest. The project plans to add a central seven-story high complex behind the Palace with additional three stories on each of its sides. Apart from commercial space, it would also include offices and apartments. The addendum's architect is Vlad Arsene, who also planned the aforementioned highly controversial Cathedral Plaza. As the Palace is situated in a highly protected area, urbanization regulations specify that a new construction cannot be taller by more than three meters than the one next to it. This standard would be breeched in the Stirbei Palace's case. The Palace is 17 meters, while the addendum would be between 34 and 40 meters, practically twice its height.

DNA has opened an investigation regarding the manner in which the project's construction authorizations were issued, with multiple representatives from the Ministry of Culture and Sector 1 being targeted. The Palace once belonged to one of the wealthiest families in Romania's history, the Stirbei, and was famed for hosting the most spectacular balls in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After being nationalized by Romania's communist regime in 1948, the Palace served over the years as the headquarters for several museums, including the Museum of Ceramics and Glass. It was purchased in 2005, by Ovidiu Popescu, the owner of Petrolexportimport SA, a company engaged in the wholesale of petroleum products, for around $12 million, after the property had been restituted to its legal owners. After his passing in 2011, the property was inherited by his son, Alexandru Popescu, who remained committed to fulfilling his father's vision.

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DNA is also investigating the legality of declassifying and demolishing several of the Palace's annexes, some with an invaluable historical worth. In 2007, the Palace's additional buildings, a smaller guest house, an inn with a cellar containing tremendously valuable old wines, as well as a semicircular stable, architecturally unique in Bucharest, were all demolished in the span of two days. The newly freed terrain was intended to become the land upon which the current project would be built.

Aside from DNA's investigations, the Romanian public and civil society have also amply opposed the Stirbei project. Two nonprofits organized discussions with local residents, who would be directly affected by the construction. These organizations have argued that the addendum would ignore parking regulations and would significantly burden the traffic in the already crowded area. At the same time, a petition opposing the project, addressed to the General Council, was signed by over 800 individuals. Through the petition, people are requesting that the local authorities prioritize their rights and interests, when considering this and similar projects.

While promoters have hailed the project as a great opportunity to restore the Palace to its former beauty, commitment to the Palace's rehabilitation seems facetious, as no measures have yet been taken to salvage the building, which has over time sustained substantial damage and desperately needs intervention.
A 61-kiloton nuclear device is fired at the Nevada Test Site in 1953.Credit: US Government

If ISIS gets a nuclear bomb, the planet loses a city. World leaders gathering for the Nuclear Security Summit this month in Washington know this, and that's what they'll be trying to prevent - by shoring up the shaky international system for keeping nuclear materials out of terrorist hands.

What nobody seems to think about at all, though - and what probably won't be a hot topic at the summit - is that any kind of nuclear attack would almost certainly cost us our souls.

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I'm not talking about the souls of the perpetrators. I'm talking about those of the survivors.

A terrorist nuclear bomb would be small, simple and mobile, fitting in a U-Haul or a shipping container, difficult if not impossible to detect or intercept. Thousands of people would die immediately or in the aftermath, which would probably include a near-complete shutdown of the global economy. It would be an assault on the modern world itself.

In the wake of an attack so devastating, so terrifying, so world-destroying, all our moral standards governing armed conflict and the sanctity of life would almost certainly wash away. The popular demand to respond in kind - to nuke somebody - would be overwhelming, and for any national leader, nearly irresistible. After a nuclear terrorist attack, no show of force would be too great and no tactic off limits.

We might like to think that our moral compass could withstand the blast and guide whatever response came after. But history doesn't encourage optimism. Moral standards are almost the first casualty of war.

Consider civilian bombing during World War II. At the start of the war, international law hadn't caught up with the destructive capacity of new aircraft technology, but intentional targeting of civilians was still taboo. Then the Nazis, as unencumbered by concern for the sanctity of life as ISIS seems to be, introduced the tactic against Warsaw, and then against British cities.

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These raids were ostensibly directed against military-industrial targets in metropolitan areas. But the more civilians that were killed, the easier it became to do it some more - and for the Allies to do it back. So Warsaw led to London which led to Berlin which led to the Blitz which led to the firebombings of Hamburg and Dresden.

In the Pacific, the Japanese bombed civilians in Nanjing, Canton, Shanghai, Chongqing, Bangkok. An enemy's disregard for life practically begs you to act the same way, so in the spring and summer of 1945, that's what U.S. General Curtis LeMay did. U.S. firebombing destroyed 67 Japanese cities, killing hundreds of thousands of civilians before culminating in the atomic destructions of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In this sense, the A-bomb wasn't anything new. It just weaponized a tactic that had been building since the beginning of the war.

More recent events bear the lesson out. In the aftermath of 9/11, America reversed a standard against torture that dated to George Washington's command to treat prisoners humanely. The nation that prosecuted Japanese army officers for war crimes including waterboarding rebranded the tactic as "enhanced interrogation." The next step was the extralegal tyranny of Gitmo, Abu Ghraib and nameless CIA "black sites."

It's scary enough that presidential candidates feel free to say such things. It's far more frightening that they're reliable applause lines on the stump.

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We like to imagine that our civilizational values run deep in our bones. They don't. Civilization is a gold-leaf veneer over our capacity for violence and depravity. Its maintenance depends primarily on things not going terribly wrong. The adage that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger does not apply to international warfare. What doesn't kill us just tends to make us worse.

If the Nuclear Security Summit goes well, it will shore up our defenses against horrible security mistakes. And the spectacular violence of nuclear or even radiological terrorism must be forestalled at all costs--but not just to save human life. We really need to save ourselves from learning how easy it would be to abandon every moral value we think we hold most dear.

Tyler Wigg-Stevenson (@TylerWS) chairs the Global Task Force on Nuclear Weapons for the World Evangelical Alliance. He is the author of The World Is Not Ours To Save, Brand Jesus, and Fighting for Peace.
Beginning in Iowa and climaxing with the holy mess that occurred in Arizona, the Democratic presidential primaries have been a Wagnerian Ring Cycle of electoral "shenanigans," cynical rule-bending and outright voter suppression.

The DNC has relied upon its favorite scapegoats (benign incompetence, and of course, Republicans) to explain away the convenient "mishaps" and anomalies that have consistently favored Clinton as she elbows her way to the Democratic coronation ceremony in Philadelphia. Even Nate Silver, widely regarded as the Gandalf of statistical analysis, still can't figure out how Clinton won in Iowa and Massachusetts:

How did Clinton (barely) win the Iowa caucuses when she got crushed in other Midwest caucus states, like Kansas and Minnesota? How did Sanders lose Massachusetts after winning New Hampshire by so much?

Maybe because our election process is completely broken and untrustworthy?

Yes, aside from its bloated prison population and staggering wealth inequality, the United States can now boast of another commonality it shares with banana republics: Only 3 in 10 Americans believe that the nation's election process is functional -- a record low, according to a new Gallup poll.

And who can blame them? When you look at what happened in Iowa, Massachusetts and Arizona, it's easy to understand why Americans have lost faith in their electoral system.

Iowa: "Re-staged" results and alleged voter fraud caught on camera

With a lead of two-tenths of 1 percent, Hillary Clinton was declared the winner of the Iowa Caucuses. Describing the caucuses as a "debacle", the Des Moines Register's editorial board wrote that "[the Iowa Democratic Party's] refusal to undergo scrutiny or allow for an appeal reeks of autocracy":

[T]he results were too close not to do a complete audit of results...too many questions have been raised. Too many accounts have arisen of inconsistent counts, untrained and overwhelmed volunteers, confused voters, cramped precinct locations, a lack of voter registration forms and other problems. Too many of us, including members of the Register editorial board who were observing caucuses, saw opportunities for error amid Monday night's chaos.

To make matters worse, results from 90 precincts were reported "missing." As such, the Iowa Democratic Party "re-staged" the results from these precincts. But even results that didn't need to be "re-staged" were suspect to error: A user-posted video on C-SPAN alleges that a Clinton precinct captain at the Polk County caucus "did not conduct an actual count of Clinton supporters and deliberately mislead the caucus."

When the Sanders campaign asked for a review of the results, the Iowa Democratic Party refused. As the Des Moines Register tells it:

Dr. Andy McGuire, chairwoman of the Iowa Democratic Party, dug in her heels and said no. She said the three campaigns had representatives in a room in the hours after the caucuses and went over the discrepancies. McGuire knows what's at stake. Her actions only confirm the suspicions, wild as they might be, of Sanders supporters. Their candidate, after all, is opposed by the party establishment -- and wasn't even a Democrat a few months ago.

As we'll see again in Massachusetts, having the support of the party establishment allows you to bend the rules.

Massachusetts: Bill Clinton gets "a little too close"

Hillary won Massachusetts by less than two percent. But it was far from a clean victory. On the day of the primary, Bill Clinton was accused of unethical (and very likely illegal) electioneering in the Boston area. According to reports, Bill "blocked off several polling entrances, preventing people from voting. In New Bedford, a Reddit user posted a video depicting the former president speaking from a megaphone. Voters were roped off and could not enter their polling places."

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It's against Massachusetts state law to campaign within 150 feet of a polling station. As the New York Times put it, the former president got "a little too close" to voters in Boston, prompting William F. Galvin, the Massachusetts secretary of state, to "notify" the Clinton campaign of the rule, and remind election workers that "even a president can't go inside and work a polling place":

"He can go in, but he can't approach voters," Galvin said. "We just took the extra precaution of telling them because this is not a usual occurrence. You don't usually get a president doing this."

Which brings us to Arizona.

Arizona: Clinton campaign blames Republicans for election fraud, but gladly takes the win

Arizona has made Florida "hanging chad" jokes obsolete. A petition calling on the White House to investigate the Arizona Democratic primary has more than 100,000 signatures (which means that Obama is expected to respond to it).

So what happened in Arizona, and why has it received so much national attention?

Hillary Clinton was declared the winner in Arizona's Democratic primary with less than 1 percent of votes tabulated and hundreds (if not thousands) of voters still waiting in line to vote. Why the long lines? Because in Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix and has the vast majority of the state's registered Democrats, there was no place to vote: In the 2012 primary, Maricopa County had 200 polling places for 300,000 voters. This year it had 60 polling places for an estimated 800,000 registered voters. The results were predictable:

In the 2008 Democratic primary, Election Day turnout in Maricopa County was 113,807; this year it was only 32,949. In other words: Tens of thousands of voters were likely prevented from casting a ballot.

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Aside from the long lines, misfiled voter registrations prevented many in Arizona from voting:

Leaders from the Arizona branch of the Democratic Party have confirmed that its lawyers are officially making an inquiry after multiple Democratic voters showed up to the polls only to find that they were listed as independents, Republicans, or had no party affiliation at all.

Many voters wound up having to wait in line under the hot Arizona sun only to find that they were ineligible to vote for the candidates of their choice. To add insult to injury, the polling locations have been so poorly planned that many voters had to wait in line up to four hours before finding out that their information had been improperly filed.

Arizona officials claim that computer glitches were responsible for the problems. But at least one angry voter took matters into her own hands and found evidence of outright voter suppression:

I went to the Pima County Recorders office and video taped the whole thing. Here's what they are doing. They are copying voter registration cards changing the date and the party preference. They can't change the original because that goes out to the party. At first she tried to say I sent in a second voter registration card (of course I didn't not) then she changes her story to its a computer glitch then states it's an error.

But the incredibly low turnout on Election Day was good news for Clinton because most of her supporters had already voted by mail: Voters under 30 accounted for only 7 percent of Democratic early voters compared to 41 percent for the over 65 crowd, a demographic which strongly favors Clinton.

After Clinton was declared the winner in Arizona, her campaign counsel wrote a message to furious Bernie voters on Reddit, stating that he shared their "concerns" about what happened in Arizona:

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The way Arizona administered its elections last night is absolutely, unequivocally unacceptable. It's the result of a larger Republican effort to make it harder for people to vote.

[...] What happened in Arizona is bad for BOTH Senator Sanders and Secretary Clinton, and supporters of both campaigns should come together to make sure this is addressed before November.

First of all, as the numbers clearly show, voter suppression in Maricopa County allowed Clinton to rely on her lead with early voters. And if the Clinton campaign really thinks that what happened in Arizona was "unacceptable", why not void the results and hold a new primary? Isn't it incredible that the Clinton campaign vows to ensure that Arizona voters have the right to vote - in November? Apparently the right to vote becomes important only when Clinton is the presumed Democratic nominee.

Considering that Hillary Clinton can't seem to follow simple debate rules, it's hard to believe that she cares too much about preserving the integrity of the electoral process.
Last week's oral arguments in Zubik v. Burwell, the consolidated cases about the application of the Affordable Care Act's contraceptive mandate to religious non-profits, ended with a zinger. Speaking on behalf of Little Sisters of the Poor and several other religious auxiliaries, Paul D. Clement concluded, "my clients would love to be a conscientious objector, but the government insists that they be a conscientious collaborator. There is no such thing."

There's just one problem: there is such a thing.

"Conscientious cooperation" was the stance explicitly taken by the Seventh-day Adventist Church to find a mechanism for its men to accept patriotic military obligations without violating the tenets of their faith. (While one might quibble that "cooperation" and "collaboration" are not exactly the same, Merriam-Webster, a favorite resource of Chief Justice John Roberts, lists them as synonyms.) It's worth recalling the history of conscientious cooperation not only to document that it is, in fact, "a thing," but also because it highlights how a faith far more marginalized than contemporary Catholics and evangelicals navigated dueling obligations of God and country.



Almost a century ago, Congress instituted a draft, conscripting young males to bear arms for the nation. Legislators created an out for members of historic peace churches like Quakers and Mennonites. In the military, conscientious objection did not erase obligation but created an alternative: noncombatant service work. The goal, as the architects of the draft made clear, was to acknowledge conscience without encouraging "slackers."

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But Seventh-day Adventists' theological teachings on war were more nuanced than total pacifism. They wanted to be patriotic non-combatants, as their objection was to bearing arms, not war writ large. Instead of viewing the draft as an all-or-nothing proposition, in which church members had to be conscripted into any military role or go to jail (a common penalty for conscientious objectors deemed insufficiently sincere by local draft boards), the Adventist church wanted an accommodation. They embraced enlisting--so long as they could serve as noncombatants (e.g., medics). And they called this stance "conscientious cooperation."

During World War II, Carlyle B. Haynes, the head of the Adventist War Service Commission, distinguished conscientious cooperation from both regular participation in war and conscientious objection. As Francis D. Nichol wrote in The Wartime Contribution of Seventh-day Adventists, church members sought a way to serve without engaging in bloodshed. Donning the uniform, he asserted, did not make Adventists complicit in killing because their individual actions as noncombatants were separate from the machinery of battle.

American Adventists thus modeled conscientious cooperation with the federal government. And their experience offers a path forward in contemporary debates over conscientious objection in healthcare.

What the Adventist experience shows is, contra the claims of the petitioners in Zubik, conscientious cooperation is both viable and necessary in a pluralistic society. While conscientious collaboration may not be a formal legal status, it is a theological practice. It distinguishes regulatory compliance from complicity, as the Adventist interaction with the military demonstrates.

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Conscientious cooperation recognizes that acts of conscience are not always cost-free. But neither is categorical separation from theologically abhorrent practices necessary: the Adventist Army medic treated the combatant soldier. The Navy did not "hijack" the Adventist corpsman's medical training when instructing him to care for wounded sailors, and the Adventist did not refuse to bandage gunshot wounds on the grounds that a conscript of a different faith followed a different belief system that permitted the use of weapons.



The very procedure being litigated in Zubik is the accommodation that enables religious non-profits to extricate themselves from funding and distributing contraception. Conscientious involvement in the healthcare system in accordance with federal regulations does not mean furnishing contraception; it means recognizing and allowing a larger structure that enables others, namely the government and third-party insurers, to supply contraception. It is possible, in other words, to be associated with a system without directly contravening one's faith, without building obstacles for others, and without bringing down the system (a credible threat, given Congressional gridlock).

Inconveniently for Clement, the Adventist "conscientious cooperation" approach to military service offers a historical precedent of religions working within, not undermining, a regulatory system that challenges their creed. Conscientious cooperation allows religious organizations to express their faith, live their ethical imperatives, and participate in a system without approving of every dimension of the system.

Just as Adventists enlisted as medics rather than fired the weapons of infantrymen, so too is it possible for religious non-profits to avoid directly distributing contraception while signing a form that allows others to do so. It is comparable to conscientiously serving as noncombatants while letting others carry the burden of ammunition, bombs, and missiles. Indeed, Adventists' conscientious cooperation meant living in an environment rife with arms; the singular--or even yearly--need to ink a signature on a form is, in contrast, a rather muted mode of cooperation.

Thus if, as Clement argued, "the government insists that they be a conscientious collaborator," he is not wrong. But neither is the government wrong to insist that conscientious collaboration is real, historical, tenable, and right.
Jamaica sits in the heart of the Caribbean, gifted with natural wonders.



Fantastic view from Hotel Mockingbird Hill in Port Antonio, Portland Parish

Jamaica is rich in lush greeneries, mountains, wildlife and beautiful beaches. Exploring this beautiful island for a week was truly a privilege. I've learned how the locals try to protect their beloved Jamaica. Protecting the beauty of Jamaica is not just the responsibility of locals and government officials, tourists must also make that conscience effort to look for sustainable tourism. On our visit to the island, we've experienced great examples of maintaining and promoting sustainable tourism.



Fantastic waves in Long Bay, Jamaica; Perfect for surfing!

Jamaica is not just about the "all-inclusive" resorts. You need to explore outside and bond with nature, mingle with locals, eat local Jamaican food and experience what the real Jamaica can share with you.

There are loads of ongoing efforts by the locals and small businesses to make Jamaica the top Eco-tourism spot in the Caribbean. There are rehabilitation projects to protect and preserve the natural resources, landscapes and animals.

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A local community project in Winnifred Beach in Port Antonio, Jamaica

I was happy to find out that the locals are making an effort to protect their environment. The community-based eco - tourism projects benefits the livelihood of the locals and enhances the visitor's experience. Some establishments in Jamaica are starting to use solar panels as an additional source of energy. People are taking action to make their way of life more self-reliant and sustainable. Most Jamaicans are into agriculture or have their own allotment where they grow vegetables and crops.



The romantic Frenchman's cove in Port Antonio, Jamaica

This beautiful tropical island in the Caribbean is blessed with lots of endemic plants and animals that can only be found in Jamaica such as wild pines, giant swallowtail butterfly's, Jamaican crocodiles, the black and yellow-billed parrots, yellow snake and the national bird of Jamaica, the doctor bird (which is a type of hummingbird).

Blue Heron in the Rio Grande

Due to the rich diversity of birds, bird watching has become a very popular activity on the island. Jamaica has more than 20 species of birds endemic to the island. There are loads of bird watching spot you can go to in Jamaica, amongst the most popular are John Crow and the Blue mountain peak .

Trekking the trail of the Blue Mountain's highest peak is a must if you are up to the challenge when you visit Jamaica. Blue Mountain is also known for their best coffee. The Blue Mountain Coffee in Jamaica is regulated by the government to maintain the standards of one of the best coffees in the world.

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The Blue Mountains

In terms of natural landscape, Jamaica has a wide selection. Frenchman's cove in Port Antonio in Portland Parish, Jamaica is one of the most famous beaches and is known for its luxury and privacy. The beach was made famous in the 70's and 80's as a private beach in the Caribbean, where the rich and famous people would spend their time to relax. The beach is now open to the public with a modest entrance fee.



The Frenchman's Cove in Portland, Jamaica

Winnifred Beach is a public beach with an authentic feel to it. Boston Beach is a charming beach that is also open to the public. Boston is known as the home of the famous Jamaican dish, the Jerk food. If you are up for surfing, the waves at Long Bay beach are perfect!



Winnifred Beach



The Boston Beach in Portland, Jamaica

Dunn's river falls in Ocho Rios, St. Ann Parish is another popular attraction where you can climb to the top cascades. The waterfall was said to be the location of a famous battle between the Spanish and British in the 17th century.



Dunn's River Falls

Reach falls in Manchioneal, Portland not far from Hotel Mockingbird Hill is another waterfall, which in my opinion feels more authentic as the area has not been commercialised. The trail guides will assist you throughout the trail. The waterfall was discovered by the slaves during the colonial times who were seeking refuge in the John Crow Mountain.

A post shared by Ryazan Tristram (@everythingzany) on Nov 4, 2015 at 4:22am PST

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Reach Falls

The river rafting in the Rio Grande, Portland Parish is very special and sweet. You can enjoy the scenic view and different landscapes along the river. The rafting journey is about 8 miles and takes about 2 hours. The Rio Grande was a route for the farmers transporting their banana crops to the Banana boats in Port Antonio for export. The Banana boats were also used by migrating Jamaicans as a cheap way to travel to the 1st world countries like UK, Canada and the USA.



River rafting in Rio Grande

A post shared by Ryazan Tristram (@everythingzany) on Nov 2, 2015 at 1:24am PST

At the Knutsford Express in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

We used Knutsford Express to travel around Jamaica, I think it is more sustainable rather than hiring your own car and cheaper too! For our pre-arranged day tours, we have a private transportation (can be shared with other guests) provided by the Hotel Mockingbird Hill with a local driver / guide to reach and explore the places that can't be accessed by the bus. During our free days, we also used the Route taxi, this is another type of public transportation in Jamaica for shorter routes between towns.

In terms of crops and vegetation, Jamaica is blessed with a fertile land. Being a tropical island, coconut trees can be seen everywhere. The national fruit of Jamaica is Ackee, this fruit is a staple in the everyday food of a typical Jamaican. Back in the colonial days, the country was famous for banana and sugar cane plantations.

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The tasty traditional Jamaican breakfast in Mille Fleurs Restaurant of Hotel Mockingbird Hill

The Sussex Great House in St. Ann's Bay, St. Ann Parish is situated at the top of the hill overlooking the entire town. The guest house has their own farm where they grow their own crops. They also have their own spring which is used as the source of their water system. Our hosts Elle and David are very accommodating and friendly. They gave us tips on what to see in their local area and gave us a lift to town.



The Sussex Great House in St. Ann's Bay, St. Ann Parish

The Hotel Mockingbird Hill in Port Antonio, Portland Parish is a perfect example of a sustainable hotel here in Jamaica. They're an eco-friendly boutique hotel that supports the local farmers and use local produce. The hotel's restaurant, Mille Fleurs Restaurant also serve great food with a fantastic view. Request the table in their viewing deck!!! Best view of Port Antonio while tucking in with the tasty Jamaican or international cuisines.



Our luxurious eco-boutique room

A post shared by Ryazan Tristram (@everythingzany) on Nov 3, 2015 at 1:47am PST



A lovely welcome note with a sweet surprise. A little taste of Jamaica's locally produced products.

It was a great experience to visit Jamaica. Sustainable travel is always the best way to preserve and protect the environment.



"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time."

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Share us your story if you've recently been to Jamaica.

This article was originally published in Two Monkeys Travel Group website.
Christians "read" the resurrection of Jesus Christ in a variety of ways and have done so from the earliest days of the faith. But one thing that all of those various understandings share is that in raising Jesus from the dead, God was in some way demonstrating approval for all that Jesus taught, did, and exemplified during his life and ministry.

The world condemned to death Jesus' message and practices of reconciliation and radical love, which were rightly seen as a threat to its own way of doing things. In raising Jesus from the dead, however, God overrules the world's "no" with a much more powerful "yes." In the resurrection, the world is shown that its brokenness does not have the last word, that the beauty of love that is God's desire for creation ultimately triumphs even when we do our best to kill it dead, and that everything Jesus did during his life to invite humanity into that vision and way of life -- despite seeming to have been shown to be an illusion when he was executed -- was true.

And the truth of Jesus' life that God vindicates includes Jesus' death.

Christian tradition asserts that Jesus went "willingly" to his death. As with interpretations of the resurrection, theologians have also made sense of Jesus' acceptance of death in many different ways over time. They all agree, though, that Jesus could have turned away. He certainly had the power to do so. And it isn't as if he didn't realize what was coming: in great anguish, it is said, he prayed to be released from the sequence of events that were so clearly leading to his execution (Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42). But he did not want to be released from it if that would mean betraying the mission. He didn't want to live if that would undermine what he was all about -- being the living, embodied divine invitation to a new and better way of life in love.

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Jesus' death is central to the Christian faith. It means many things. But one thing that it means and that I sometimes think we don't focus on enough is that Jesus' death reminds us that there are sometimes worse things than death. It's an oversimplification but still true to say that, for Jesus, betraying the divine mission he was charged with would have been worse than death. Allowing the powerful to silence the work he and his disciples were doing by giving it up would have been worse than death. Turning away from love and from the God of love would have been worse than death.

Death is an evil. Violent death is particularly evil and where it is preventable should obviously be prevented. Yet, death is also an evil none of us can escape. We spend an awful lot of time, money, and energy trying, however. We find ourselves going to great lengths to ward off aging and death. We tend to think of death as something unnatural, rather than as inevitable. We often make dying invisible by forcing it take place in hospitals and nursing homes. As Ann Neumann and others have made so clear, we tend to take a "treat at all costs" approach to the terminally ill that seeks to deny death in ways that sometimes wind up being cruel and inhumane. And as religion scholar Kate Bowler has reminded us in reflecting with deep insight upon her devastating cancer diagnosis, there is an incredible and seemingly paradoxical life-giving power in coming to some kind of terms with death, even while never fully "accepting" it. Yet, very few of us today are able to speak of what it might mean to die a "good death," as our not-so-distant forebears did, let alone sing praises to "Sister Bodily Death," as the great St. Francis of Assisi did in his Canticle of the Sun.

Jesus' death reminds us that, while death is dreadful and a real ground for fear, there are worse things than death. Turning away from a life of meaning, mission and vision, or being so preoccupied with avoiding death that in our anxiety we forget to really live and what it is that makes life really worth living, or seeking to prolong life with so much zeal that the life one lives becomes a torment, would all be examples of that.

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MADISON, WI - MARCH 26: Democratic presidential candidate Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) speaks at a campaign rally at the Alliant Energy Center on March 26, 2016 in Madison, Wisconsin. Voters in Wisconsin go to the polls April 5th for the state's primary. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

The overwhelming majority of the voting data accumulated thus far in the Democratic primaries contradicts the media narrative suggesting Bernie Sanders doesn't perform well in states with diverse populations.

While the fact that Sanders yesterday swept "Western Saturday" (with votes in Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington) is a part of the analysis -- as is the fact that, in just a few hours of voting, Sanders managed to eliminate 22.5% of Hillary Clinton's 296-delegate lead -- it isn't the greater part. I'm not even focusing here on the fact that, after weeks of being told how staggeringly far ahead Clinton is in the pledged delegate race, her monumental margin ends up, as of today, being no more than 54.9% to 45.1%.

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A single-digit lead.

With 1,750 pledged delegates -- nearly 45% of all pledged delegates -- yet to be awarded, across 22 future nominating contests.

So: those are some pretty eye-popping numbers.

Still, far more important to undercutting the specious media narrative about Bernie Sanders and diverse electorates is a somewhat broader observation: that thus far, six of the ten most diverse states in America have held Democratic nominating contests, and both Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders have won three of these contests.

In two of her three wins in ultra-diverse states, Clinton won with relatively slim majorities: in Arizona she pulled 57.6% of the vote, and in Nevada, 52.6%.

In both states, Clinton substantially underperformed pre-election polling. The RCP polling average in Arizona predicted a 30-point victory; instead, Clinton won by 17.7%, and in fact she lost the live (Election Day) voting to Sanders, 52% to 48%. Meanwhile, in Nevada, Clinton met the expectations set by polls taken in the 120 hours before the caucuses, but fell dramatically short of the last poll taken prior to that period, which predicted a 23-point Clinton victory instead of the 5.5-point one she got. This enabled Sanders to claim, not unfairly, that he'd made up more than 17 points on Clinton in the eight weeks leading up to the Silver State caucuses. The New York Times, getting it right for once, called Clinton's Nevada win "narrow".

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Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders won his three contests in ultra-diverse states -- Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington -- with 81.6%, 69.8%, and 72.7% shares of the vote, respectively.

In all three states, Sanders exceeded expectations dramatically. Polling website FiveThirtyEight.com had predicted 8-point wins for Sanders in Hawaii and Alaska, and a more generous 17-point win in Washington.

Instead, Sanders won Alaska by 61.5 points, Hawaii by 39.8, and Washington -- the largest of the three Western Saturday states -- by a jaw-dropping 45.6 points.

(As a side note, Sanders also just won the Democrats Abroad primary -- which awards as many delegates as do Alaska, Vermont, or Wyoming -- 69% to 30%. While the demographic breakdown of Democrats Abroad voters is unknown, we do know that Sanders defeated Clinton in 167 of 170 countries -- those last four words might be worth reading twice -- and that in one of the three countries Clinton won, only five people voted. That means Sanders won among Democrats in every majority-nonwhite country in the world that has Democrats in it other than Nigeria, Singapore, and the Dominican Republic. As noted, only five people voted in Nigeria; in Singapore, Clinton's win was a relatively modest one, 58% to 42%. I won't list the 167 countries Sanders won, as I just don't have the space here.)

If you thought these four decisive Sanders wins offered the national media a pretty good opportunity to drop its ridiculous narrative about Bernie Sanders supporters -- namely, that nearly all of them are white -- you either don't understand how firmly in the Clinton camp even mainstream media organizations are, or you don't pay any attention to domestic politics at all. Most of us knew what to expect from the media after seeing months of purportedly objective "panels" on CNN and MSNBC comprised entirely of Clinton surrogates or neutral reporters; watching media outlets fail to cover even a single second of election-night speeches by Sanders; and cringing as every major media organization continued counting "super-delegates" as though these were earned and confirmed "votes," despite a DNC directive to not tally them until the summertime.

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Most importantly, most of us knew what to expect after the national media had ignored entirely Sanders' strong performances in, demographically speaking, the "middle half" of U.S. states -- that is, those states ranked 13th through 38th in terms of their white population.

Sanders' record in these states is as follows (acknowledging exceedingly close results as ties):

Wins : 6

: 6 States : Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Utah.

: Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Utah. Delegate Count in These States: Sanders 170, Clinton 101.

Ties : 4

: 4 States : Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri.

: Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri. Delegate Count in These States: Sanders 219, Clinton 216.

Losses : 7

: 7 States : Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee.

: Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee. Delegate Count in These States: Clinton 326, Sanders 177.

The total delegate count for these seventeen "normative" American states?

Clinton 643, Sanders 566.

53.1% to 46.9%.

So we see here that Clinton has a very slight edge in states (1) and delegates (77), but not a dramatic one -- especially given that in one of her "win" states, North Carolina, live (Election Day) voting was essentially a tie. Meanwhile, all of Sanders' wins were by large margins.

When you add to the above seventeen states the six ultra-diverse ones referenced at the top of this article -- plus the Democrats Abroad primary -- the tally for Sanders looks like this:

Wins : 9

: 9 States : Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Utah, Washington.

: Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Utah, Washington. Delegate Count in These States: Sanders 274, Clinton 139.

Ties : 4

: 4 States : Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri.

: Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri. Delegate Count in These States: Sanders 219, Clinton 216.

Losses : 10

: 10 States : Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia.

: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia. Delegate Count in These States: Clinton 452, Sanders 256.

The total delegate count for these twenty-one diverse American states?

Clinton 807, Sanders 749.

51.8% to 48.2%.

Whereas none of the Sanders "wins" listed in this second chart were at all close, two of the wins Clinton banked were squeakers in one way or another: Nevada, because Clinton only won 52.7% to 47.2%; and North Carolina, because (again) Election Day voting there was a virtual tie.

So, is it really the case that all the voting in the nation's most diverse states (at least those that have voted thus far) comes down to Clinton beating Sanders -- in delegates -- just 51.8% to 48.2%?

Almost.

What the above analysis really does is underscore how complicated questions of race are in America.

For instance, the data assessment used at the head of this article to determine the ten most diverse states in America was one that considered mixed-race voters as "non-white." For this reason, it did not include Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, or Texas -- states that would have appeared in the top ten if the question had simply been what percentage of each state's voters are Caucasian. But should that really be the measure we use to determine a state's demographic diversity? Certainly, it seems impermissibly reductive to blithely call mixed-race Americans "Caucasian."

Yet most media assessments of racial and ethnic demographics do exactly that. For this reason, I've used, in the middle of this article -- the part with the bullet-pointed lists -- a data assessment that ranks states solely by their Caucasian populations. This assessment offers no break-out for mixed-race Americans.

So if you consider mixed-race voters, as of course we should, Sanders and Clinton have indeed both won three of the ten most diverse states. And if you don't -- that is, if you look instead at "percentage-white" data only, as the national media habitually does -- the seventeen American states that are the most "normative" racially and ethnically indeed have voted just 53% to 47% in Clinton's favor.

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So, somehow a 53%-47% delegate split in the seventeen most "normative" American states (demographically speaking) and a 3-3 split among the six most diverse states that have voted so far adds up to a compelling narrative about Sanders' inability to attract nonwhite voters? That's a head-scratcher for sure.

If you think I'm just having fun with numbers here, look at it this way: right now Clinton leads Sanders by 226 delegates, and 215 of that 226-delegate lead (over 95% of it) can be attributed to just four states, three of which are majority-white: Georgia (53% white), Florida (55% white), Mississippi (57% white).

Of these four states that account for almost the entirety of Clinton's lead on Sanders, only one of them -- Florida -- has any real chance of being won by the Democrats in the next four general elections.

In other words, reports of Sanders' irrelevance to the full swath of Democratic voters are not just exaggerated, but laughable.

Now, none of this is to say that Sanders performs just as well as Clinton among African-American voters, or Latino voters, though we can note that Sanders has improved his performance among both groups as time has gone on and that -- and this is perhaps the worst canard the media has perpetuated -- the fact that Clinton performs well among these two voting groups does not mean that Sanders is unpopular in these communities. Indeed, Sanders' favorability ratings wouldn't be 32 net points higher than Clinton's (+11 as compared to -21) if this were the case.

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But what the above data do tell us is that "Western Saturday" was the time for the media to finally put to rest its outlandish claim that Bernie Sanders doesn't do well in states with diverse populations -- as that narrative, we can say for certain, is untrue.

Unfortunately, that sort of magnanimity from the corporate media just wasn't to be.

Amazingly, most Sanders supporters I've spoken to, skeptical as they've been about the media's coverage of the Sanders campaign, are still absolutely appalled at what unfolded after Sanders absolutely dominated Clinton on "Western Saturday" -- which was, again, if we let demographic statistics be our guide, the day on the spring election calendar in which the largest number of racially and ethnically diverse populations got to weigh in on the Democratic primary race.

But you know what? They've a right to be appalled, and even by the low standards set by news media coverage of the presidential election, it was appalling.

Here's an abbreviated list of the shocking, indeed borderline racist political analyses heard on CNN during Western Saturday:

The claim that Hawaii is mostly white (it's majority-minority); the claim that Alaska is overwhelmingly white (it's the seventh-most diverse state); the claim that Michigan is the most diverse state Sanders has acquitted himself exceedingly well in (in fact it's the sixth-most diverse, and eighth if you count the ties in Illinois in Massachusetts); and the claim that Wisconsin is more diverse than any of the states that voted on Western Saturday (in fact, Wisconsin is one of the dozen whitest states in America, while the Western Saturday states are all among the ten most diverse).

I'm not including, in the list above, all the other absurd misstatements that CNN in particular filled the airwaves with -- such as Bakari Sellers stating that Clinton's 13.8% win in Ohio (after polling had predicted a victory by more than 30 points) was as miraculous a performance as Sanders' come-from-behind win in Michigan or (moreover) his making up of almost the entirety of a 42-point deficit in Illinois in just the last seven days of that campaign.

So what explains all this journalistic malpractice?

The same thing that explains the absence of Sanders surrogates or supporters on cable TV. The same thing that explains media blackouts of Sanders speeches. The same thing that explains super-delegate tallies having been used by cable news all spring -- successfully -- to influence public perception of the Clinton-Sanders race, despite their use for this purpose having been explicitly opposed by the Democratic National Committee. The same thing that explains Sanders having netted 21 delegates on "Western Tuesday" (the votes in Arizona, Idaho, and Utah) rather than losing between one and ten net delegates -- as predicted before the voting by the media -- without anyone coming on air thereafter to issue a mea culpa or even a well-done to Sanders.

In short, the national media has a false narrative in its jaws like a dog with a bone and the only thing that will dislodge it is -- apparently -- Sanders not only winning the Democratic nomination for President but, also, each member of the media being allotted one Sanders voter apiece to pinch them mercilessly on the arm.
On March 23, 2016, the North Carolina General Assembly passed, and the governor signed, House Bill 2, a measure designed in part to overturn a Charlotte city ordinance that provided that transgender/transsexual folks had a right to use public restrooms and changing facilities that corresponded to their gender identity. In the process, North Carolina became--in the span of just a few hours-- the most anti-gay state in the United States. If you heard that the dust up in North Carolina was just about who could rightfully pee standing up, you heard wrong.

The N.C. General Assembly, goaded on by Governor Pat McCrory, repealed nearly every antidiscrimination protection we'd won, tooth and nail, over the last twenty-five years. In the process, our Republican legislators seized the opportunity to ban all antidiscrimination suits, including those alleging race or gender violations, from N.C. state courts. In other words, even suits brought by members of federally protected classes in North Carolina must now be litigated in federal court--where antidiscrimination suits are slower and more expensive. It was a boon for discriminatory employers, and the legislature knew it. Even veteran preferences at the local level have been eliminated. The legislation is stunningly retrogressive and stunningly broad.

Thinking North Carolinians understand that our state legislature is a fetid swamp of prejudice, bigotry, and irrational hatred. We have seen them, time and again, wield a clumsy, hasty, ill-considered fundamentalist zeal that would make Torquemada blush. We know they are moving us ever backward, day by day. We know, therefore, that responsibility for H.B. 2 is ultimately that of our dullard legislators and their wooden-headed governor.

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But stopping the story here is too easy, and it is an incomplete look at how we came to this tragic moment in North Carolina LGBT history.

Years ago, I left the board of Equality N.C. because the group decided to publicly oppose a national antidiscrimination law that would have covered gays and lesbians. The reason given was that the law didn't cover transsexuals. I thought this was terribly bad politics. Transsexuals already had more employment discrimination protection than gays because of the way in which courts were interpreting "sex" in Title VII cases. Nobody seemed to care much about the legal reality. But more than this, anyone who understands civil rights politics knows that change is most often incremental. Legislative progress, whether it is at the local, state, or national level, rarely accomplishes all of our goals in one fell swoop. Instead, progress is achieved in baby steps, with each victory forming the basis of renewed activism and accomplishment. But instead of supporting protections for gays and lesbians while we could, some folks wanted to oppose a law that had the potential to relieve the suffering of countless gays and lesbians across the country and advance the movement in a way that only national employment antidiscrimination legislation can. I didn't think it was fair to ask gays and lesbians to sacrifice ourselves in this way. It was a self-defeating single-mindedness that I could not abide.

After years of negotiation over the Charlotte ordinance, I was horrified to see that same single-mindedness rear its head again. And this time we're all paying the price. Advocates and groups, loosely denominated "gay," opposed any antidiscrimination ordinance without the controversial bathroom edict. The governor in no uncertain terms warned the Charlotte city council that if it proceeded with a law containing the bathroom-specific language he would call a special legislative session for the purpose of repealing it. Of course, given his history of crafting some of the ugliest, most racist, most misogynist legislation in the country to date, there was every reason to believe he meant it. But the single-minded "gay" groups and their allies pushed it anyway.

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It is, frankly, difficult to explain. LGBT advocates and the Charlotte city council behaved like petulant children. Their actions amounted to sticking their collective tongue out to an abusive parent and then waiting for the blows to fall. There was no reason for any conscious person to believe that McCrory wouldn't make good on his threat. This is the same government that brought us an anti-gay constitutional amendment and, after that was pronounced illegal, a "religious accommodation" statute to ensure that bigoted government employees don't have to follow the law when it interferes with their religiously-motivated bigotry. Given the virulent homophobia reigning in the General Assembly, the Charlotte bathroom ordinance was the equivalent of throwing a kitten to a pack of rabid dogs. The blood-shed was sure and swift.

Now, transgender people are no better off than before in North Carolina, and gays and lesbians are overwhelmingly worse off. The politics of the single-minded--the politics of those who see only aspiration and never material reality--has been our ruin.

There is another interesting political side-note to this story. Only eleven House Democrats voted in favor of this draconian legislation. Six of them were black--old, black men. The politics of the single-minded got the better of them. Of course, they were doing the bidding of their evangelical preacher handlers, who see no commonalities between the gay and black civil rights struggles and resent it when parallels are drawn. But they were too stupid to read or to comprehend that this legislation just made it easier for employers to discriminate on the basis of race in North Carolina and get away with it. Their overriding desire to stick it to the perverts motivated them to support overtly racist legislation. We'll see if the NAACP has the guts to oppose their reelection campaigns (since odds are they won't have the humility or integrity to resign in warranted disgrace).

The politics of the single-minded isn't good for anyone or anything, except regressivism. I think transsexuals deserve dignity and respect. I think gender is an emergency, created by heterosexual people, that we all, heterosexuals included, must endure. It's a prison for all of us, cisgender and transgender alike. We ought to resist its enforcement. But that resistance ought not to take the form of scorched earth politics. As strongly as I feel that transgender people ought to get to use the public restroom of their choice, I don't think it is fair to ask gays and lesbians to give up everything to accomplish that goal. By this political logic, black men shouldn't have voted until 1920, when women finally got the vote. Why should gay people answer to a different standard?
DANE, WI - MARCH 24: Republican presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) speaks to workers at Dane Manufacturing during a campaign stop on March 24, 2016 in Dane, Wisconsin. Wisconsin voters go to the polls for the state's primary on April 5. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

I am, as you are, devastated by the news of Daesh (ISIS) terror attacks in Ankara and then Brussels. Devastated by the Taliban terror attack in Lahore. Devastated for the loss of life, for the loss of peace. But also devastated for the inevitable opportunistic xenophobia that follows an attack like the one in Brussels.

Stealing a move from Trump's playbook, Ted Cruz made an alarming statement in the wake of the attacks in Brussels. He issued a press release saying, "we need to empower law enforcement to patrol and secure Muslim neighborhoods before they become radicalized." To which I'd like to respond: I assure you that the only radicalization I am at risk of is radical anti-Republicanism. On a practical level, it's easy to dismiss Cruz's statement as absurd. American Muslims are rarely concentrated in specific neighborhoods, and patrolling these neighborhoods couldn't possibly have an actual effect on rates of radicalization.

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But rhetorically, Cruz has moved us one step closer to a fractured democracy. While his words are certainly scary for Muslims, they pose a serious threat to all Americans. The Republicans' inflammatory rhetoric this election cycle has done something remarkable to this country in a very short period of time: It has turned this country into a tinderbox.

What would it take to light the fire of fear? What would it take to steer this election into the hands of a hateful demagogue? In the wake of 9/11, many of us watched in shock as we destroyed the sovereign nations of Iraq and Afghanistan. The horror of the 9/11 attacks were enough to silence any opposition, even though there was no evidence that 9/11 was a state-sponsored attack in which either Afghanistan or Iraq had any involvement. It seems likely that an attack on U.S. soil today would have a dramatic effect on the upcoming elections. It might create unmanageable and even violent chaos in the event of a contested Republican convention; Americans might be more inclined to adopt the combative approach of a Republican candidate, whether or not that candidate sits atop a fractured party. How easy we have made it for terrorists to manipulate our political system.

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It seems likely that the resulting chaos would play directly into the hands of terrorists, who would be happy to see our democracy shaken, and to lure America into a "war against Islam." Republican candidates have delivered tremendous power to the door of Daesh by weakening our sense of pluralism and unity. It is terrifying to imagine that with one unsophisticated attack, Daesh could throw our political process into a tailspin and turn us on each other.

Bizarrely, for all of their warmongering, the Republican frontrunners Cruz and Trump have inadvertently joined forces with the most dangerous terrorists of our time. They have, over the last several months, laid the groundwork for their own ascent at the cost of a united America. At this moment in global politics, that exposure is too great. Internal unity is essential to the project of improving American lives, and to the project of understanding and eliminating the threat of terrorism. There is only one way ahead. Together.

And so, I suggest to you that this election cycle has transcended our traditional bipartisan system. It is, above all, important to rebuild our strength through unity; it is essential that every one of us vote against hate.

Peace to you and blessings,

Sofia Ali-Khan
Like proverbial buses, it seems you can wait ages for a landmark international justice case, and then four come along at the same time.

By any standards, this has been a remarkable week for international justice. On Thursday Radovan Karadzic was convicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) for his role in genocide and other atrocities committed during the Balkans war. Whilst this story may have grabbed the front page headlines, it was sandwiched between three other historic international legal milestones.

Monday's conviction of former Congolese vice president Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo was not only was it the first time that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has convicted someone for rape as a war crime but was also the first conviction in international criminal law to classify the rape of men specifically as sexual violence. In addition it was the first ICC conviction based on command responsibility, namely that a those in charge will be held criminally liable for the actions of those under their command.

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On Wednesday the ICC ruled that there was enough evidence to put former Lord's Resistance Army commander, Dominic Ongwen, on trial. They confirmed 70 charges committed in Uganda against including murder, rape, sexual slavery, and recruiting child soldiers. He will become the first person to stand trial for forced pregnancy under international criminal law and the first person before the ICC to face charges of forced marriage.

The following day the ICC confirmed that it would commit Malian jihadist, Ahmad Al Faqi Al-Mahdi, to trial for "the war crime of attacking buildings dedicated to religion and historic monuments". Al-Mahdi, a former Ansar Dine leader, has indicated that he will plead guilty to attacks in Timbuktu in 2012. It will be the first time that anyone has faced trial at the ICC for the destruction of cultural landmarks.

The fact that these cases were heard in the same week may be merely coincidental, but it nevertheless sends out a strong signal that commanders who commit or permit atrocities will ultimately be held responsible.

Whilst some argue that Karadzic should have received a life sentence and point out that two decades after the Bosnian war, thousands of cases of enforced disappearances remain unresolved, this week's verdict is nevertheless a significant success for the ICTY. The ICC cases also come at an important time as the court -- which relies entirely on individual nations to carry out its arrest warrants -- faces increasing financial and political challenges.

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With Kenya and South Africa both recently indicating that they may withdraw from the ICC's Statute the need to recognize its importance as a key route to justice for many victims is more vital than ever. More than 10,000 victims have engaged in the ICC's proceedings so far from countries including Afghanistan, Colombia, Libya, Mexico, Palestine, Syria, Sudan, South Sudan and Ukraine. Despite this, since it was set up in 2002, only ten official investigations have been opened and an additional seven preliminary examinations undertaken. Thirty-nine people have been indicted in the ICC, including Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony, Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir and Ivorian president Laurent Gbagbo.


'Cagney' star and co-creator, Robert Creighton

Who was James Cagney? There was a time when fans around the world could have easily answered the question. He was one of the top movie stars, most noted actors and recognizable faces, having starred in many dozens of films including "The Public Enemy," "White Heat," and "Yankee Doodle Dandy". But, as older generations are eclipsed by their successors, the popularity of his films -- and this entertainment icon who died in 1986 at the age of 86 -- has significantly declined.

If, during his life, you had asked him or the studio system, though, "Who is James Cagney?" you would have gotten a very different answer. Jack Warner, head of Warner Bros. studio would have told you Cagney's spitfire persona made him, simply: profitable when playing a tough guy. And he was half right. To fans, Cagney was, and in some respects still is, the epitome of this persona proven by classic, hit films (and some less popular), in which he played the stereotypical gangster or some other iteration of it.

But Cagney would have said he's equally a song and dance man. He made his first foray into show business as a "hoofer," dancing as a means to help put food on the table at his family's home in New York City's Lower East Side. He would tap and sing in vaudeville shows, before becoming a contract actor at Warner's studio.

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But, it took a real tough guy to break out of their limiting, albeit successful stereotype and prove that he could go from tough to tap -- but he did, winning his only Academy Award, for his portrayal of George M. Cohan in the hit, "Yankee Doodle Dandy."

Now, the lesser known life of this "tough guy in tap shoes" is being explored in the off-Broadway show, Cagney. Led and co-authored by Broadway's Robert Creighton (Anything Goes, The Mystery of Edwin Drood), the show received critical acclaim in a limited run produced by the York Theatre Company in 2015.

Now, Broadway producer Riki Kane Larimer (On the Town, Fiddler on the Roof) is bringing it to the Westside Theatre.

Center On The Aisle (#COTA) editor in chief, Steve Schonberg spent some time with Creighton to explore Cagney's legacy and learn about bringing him back to life through this insightful new musical.

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Check out the video, below!

(Video producer: Claude Apollon / Special thanks to The Friars Club)

Cagney features a book by Peter Colley (The Donnelly) and music & lyrics by Robert Creighton and Christopher McGovern (Fame, First Wives Club). It is directed by Bill Castellino (Storyville, Jolson), with choreography by Joshua Bergasse (On The Town, Gigi). Robert Creighton is joined by his original Off-Broadway cast members Jeremy Benton (42nd Street), Danette Holden (Annie), Bruce Sabath (Company), Josh Walden (Ragtime), and Ellen Zolezzi (Seussical).


Saoirse Ronan and Ben Whishaw in Arthur Miller's The Crucible.

Photo: Jan Versweyveld

British actor Ben Whishaw is making his Broadway debut as John Proctor in director Ivo van Hove's production of Arthur Miller's The Crucible. Whishaw, a 35-year-old stage, screen and television actor who started his career at 23 as Hamlet for Trevor Nunn at the Old Vic--and recently appeared as Q in the James Bond films "Skyfall" and "Spectre"--sat with us before a recent preview in his cramped dressing room, two-flights up at the Walter Kerr.

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Did you know The Crucible when you were approached to do it on Broadway?

BEN WHISHAW: Actually, weirdly, I had done the play as a teenager. I had this real love of the play, stemming from a young age. It's happened a few times, now, that plays I've done when I was 15 or 16 have come back to me, later in life. It became like, obviously, there must be some reason why it's come back, so I should do this. Then Ivo van Hove was mentioned and that was very exciting, because I'm a fan of his work.

And you played the same role, John Proctor?

BEN WHISHAW: Yes. This is just the part they gave me, I don't know why. It was a state school that I went to, in the village down the road from the village I grew up in, it was called the Samuel Whitbread Community College. Just a small country school, in Shefford. We had a really amazing drama department.



What did you make of the role at that age? Did you understand the play?

BEN WHISHAW: Yes, I think I did. We had, just last Saturday matinee, a very young audience. I noticed there were a lot of teenagers, young people in the front rows, they all had their elbows on their knees and were leaning in. I think young people get the play, because the thing I remember really responding to was this notion of forcing conformity on people. It's sort of the politics of what happens in a playground, that's what's going on in the play. There are kinds of brutal, basic things that happen in life, at work, in big institutions. I think in school, the same things are going on, you instinctively respond to them. The stuff about the marriage and lots of other things, I probably didn't understand. But it's such a rich play, there are so many things you can grasp or fail to grasp, or discover in it.

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Miller's play is set in Salem, Massachusetts in 1692. Ivo remains true to the text, but he places it--scenically, at least--in a very different time and place. Where do you, as John Proctor, think the action is taking place?

BEN WHISHAW: I think he's now, in the world that exists on stage. We've not been specific about it; Ivo is not interested, in the slightest, in naturalistic or even psychological things like that. He's much more interested in stripping away stuff, I suppose, so you get to something more raw and basic. So my feeling is we're in sort of now, in a community.

In terms of the staging, were there surprises that came up in rehearsal?

BEN WHISHAW: Not really, because Ivo gives you a kind of overview talk at the first rehearsal, and he said it is going to be set in a classroom. The whole thing is happening in this classroom, and it was all very considered, and decided before we began. I suppose the thing that is most surprising about the way Ivo works is that he does want to strip things down; he really wants, as much as possible, no acting, no pretense about anything.

Did the question of using accents come up?

We started out having American accents, the British and Irish members of the cast. About the second or third preview, Ivo scrapped it, because he felt it wasn't necessary. If anything, it was a kind of--block. It just wasn't required because we weren't in any specific place, so we could be ourselves. I think because Ivo's Belgian, some of the cast are Irish, some American, Sophie Okonedo and I are British--and since we don't have any trappings of the original period--I think the play could be taking place anywhere. This situation the audience is looking at, could be happening all over the world. It's not exclusively an American problem.



Sophie Okonedo and Ben Whishaw in Arthur Miller's The Crucible.

Photo: Jan Versweyveld

From the audience, your performance looks emotionally and physically wrenching. Is it difficult to play, eight times a week?

BEN WHISHAW: I think the play is so brilliant, and brilliantly structured, that it's kind of impossible not to swept up in it, every time you do it. It requires a lot of concentration, because it's a long play. But I wouldn't say it feels difficult. It's weirdly a pleasure to do it, even twice in one day; it's so really enjoyable. I think Miller is just a wonderful writer for the theatre. He's a wonderful writer for actors, and the play somehow generates its own energy. The audience always seems to be with you, because he sets the whole thing up so brilliantly. It's like a nightmare. View from the Bridge had a similar feeling, I felt it when I was watching Ivo's production. It's like Ivo described it, that car crash you can see coming--but you can't turn your eyes away.



How did you feel when Ivo introduced the various special elements, the effects?

BEN WHISHAW: One of the things that Ivo said very early on, what was important to him was that we convey to the audience that the people in this play really believe in witches, and they really believe that young girls can fly; that you really can be possessed by the devil, or the devil's agents. And so there are little kinds of glimpses of that. Because the play is exploring belief, I suppose, and what belief does to people who are living under a very strict, moral religious value system. So the effects are kind of a cheeky, provocative way of exploring that. There are little flashes into the way these people see the world.

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Do you feel like you and the cast are politically engaged by the play?

BEN WHISHAW: Well, what I like about what Ivo's done is that it's not a production that's bashing you over the head with a contemporary resonance. I think what he is doing is something more universal. This could be any community, anywhere. I suppose what Ivo is asking us to pay attention to, is that it always begins as something so small. It begins as a private matter between two or three people, and it explodes into something that is barbaric and evil. But the seeds are tiny. That feels relevant, and frightening; because it's frightening how very complex problems evolve out of small matters, and sweep up the domestic and the private with them.
By Jessica Ellis

For each of the 12 years I have been an elementary school teacher, I have read biographies of influential African Americans with my students during Black History Month. One of my favorite moments is when my students gather on the rug before me with a biography of Dr. King or Ruby Bridges or Thurgood Marshall, and I say to them, "In 1954, you would not have been allowed to go to school together." There follows a chorus of protests as they look at their friends of many colors and backgrounds and say, "What?! No way! That's impossible!" Then we all share a little pride for the progress we have made in this country over the past 60 years.

I recently began teaching in my neighborhood public school in Prince George's County, Maryland. This year, my usual line was met with confused silence. I looked out over my sea of 26 bright faces, each one a shade of brown, and I didn't know what to tell them. I do not have a single white child in my class.

In our school of over 700 students, nearly 90 percent of whom qualify for free and reduced meals, we have fewer than ten white non-Hispanic children. Most of our students speak Spanish as their first language. It's not that we do not have white or middle class children in our neighborhood. But at present, the majority of middle class families are choosing private schools, parochial schools, charters, magnets or homeschooling. They do everything to avoid sending their kids to the predominantly low-income local public school.

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Our public education system suffers from de facto segregation. Senator Bill Ferguson of Baltimore City has written legislation to address this problem. SB910 proposes to establish Maryland Education Development Collaborative, or EDCo. EDCo endeavors to increase socioeconomic and demographic diversity in our public schools in the interest of closing the achievement gap and providing a high quality education for all students. Through research, public/private partnership development, grant coordination, and policy recommendations, EDCo will help usher our education system into the 21st century.

Many studies have shown that as our country is becoming more ethnically diverse, our schools have become more segregated. A 2010 report by the Civil Rights Project found that Maryland was the sixth-most-segregated state in the country for black students. In Prince George's County, where I live and work, nine out of 10 black students attended a school where at least 90 percent of students were minorities.

As early as the 1960s, we have understood that the two greatest predictors of student academic success are the socioeconomic status of the student's family, and the socioeconomic status of the student's peers. That is to say that low-income children who attend mixed income schools will achieve at higher rates. With a state as segregated as ours, it is no wonder that our achievement gap is also one of the greatest in the country. According to our 2013 NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores, the gap in average math scores between black and white fourth-graders in Maryland was the fifth-worst in the nation, and in reading the gap was the ninth-worst.

Public school systems are not well positioned to achieve true reform mainly because teachers, principals, and superintendents are consumed with the demands of delivering education in real time. We must address the immediate needs of the students sitting in our classrooms today, leaving us little time or energy to think clearly about policy. This is why it makes sense to invest in an organization that can provide perspective, make connections, and help us improve towards a better future. When we delay on educational reform, we lose a generation of children to failed policies.

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We need nimble entities such as EDCo to pursue solutions, and to ensure that all of our children have access to the dream envisioned by Dr. King and Ruby Bridges and Thurgood Marshall over 50 years ago.
The tram, adorned in a blanket of graffiti, makes its first stop since I stepped on. The tired doors creak open to reveal the mall. Home to all the foreign cuisine and expensive clothes shops in Sarajevo, its glass windows, doors and walls scream modernity. It is a distinct contrast to what the tram passes minutes later: streets defined by buildings of beige, peach, cream and grey, littered with bullet holes and cavities formed from shell blasts. Here it would seem as if the war had ended mere weeks back, rather than twenty years ago.

I look past these stark reminders of the atrocities that occurred and see Mt. Trebevic in the not-so-distant distance. Today it is predominantly a spot for travelers to admire the view of Sarajevo or the graffiti on the slopes of the abandoned bobsled track, but it was once the centerpiece for the 1984 Yugoslav Winter Olympics, in which the winners for bobsleigh were two countries that no longer exist (East Germany and the Soviet Union).

The tram jolts forward as it stops at Skenderija. Again, the doors creak open. No one gets off. A dark-haired man in a thick leather jacket, probably in his early twenties, holds the doors open for an elderly lady with a head wrapped in a floral scarf, who struggles up the step.

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The view out the dusty tram window begins to blur as we start to move. I take a look at the streets now, and, in particular, the buildings on them, and I am taken even further back in time to 1880. The rulers of Bosnia's Austro-Hungarian occupation had recently erected halls, streets, buildings and bridges, including the bridge where Gavrilo Princip assassinated Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 -- the event that acted as a catalyst for World War I and the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Five stops later, the tram inches up to the platform of the Bascarsija stop and I hop off. I take a few steps and am in front of the Sebilj fountain featured on all the postcards leaving Bosnia. Surrounding the iconic wooden fountain are equal fractions of locals, travelers, and pigeons. I am in Stari Grad (Old Town), and the architecture here is incredibly dissimilar to the Austro-Hungarian buildings and streets along the river

The hub of Stari Grad is Bascarsija. Bascarsija is Sarajevo's old bazaar, or, to be precise, Sarajevo's 554-year-old bazaar. It was built and used under Ottoman rule, and as I walk through the narrow streets and alleyways I feel like I have stepped through a time machine once more. The shops and stalls that line the streets and alleyways are all stocked with items reminiscent of the once-thriving Turkish empire. There are rows and rows of shisha pipes with a vast range of colors and designs, their sizes ranging from smaller than my hand to bigger than my sister. There are stacks of copper and porcelain coffee sets far too elaborate and confusing for a non-coffee drinker like me. There are scarves and scarves and scarves of beautiful intricate floral, scroll, and paisley patterns.

Feeling peckish, I eat a plate of burek -- a meaty, flaky pastry of greasy deliciousness; a true staple of Bosnian cuisine. On my way out I buy a small, sugary cube of rahat lokum (Turkish delight), ending the story on a sweet note.

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Krysta Harden, a self-described Georgia farm girl, recently left the U.S. Department of Agriculture where she served in various capacities during the past seven years, including as deputy secretary.

In an interview, Harden spoke about how life on the farm prepared her for life at the USDA, her personal successes and challenges, and her approach to managing employees. Harden was interviewed by Tom Fox, a guest writer for On Leadership and the vice president for leadership and innovation at the nonprofit, nonpartisan Partnership for Public Service. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Q. You come from three generations of Georgia farmers and were raised on a farm. How did your upbringing inform your work at USDA?

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A. I started training for this job when I was a child. My background certainly prepared me for dealing with our programs and policies and the culture of agriculture. It also prepared me for the hard work that's required to be in federal service and for the discipline that's needed. I give great credit to my parents, who were farmers and who always worked very hard and instilled in me and my sister a strong work ethic and an understanding that everyone should be treated fairly.
In Pt. I, I described what I believe is the new paradigm for the teaching of music in Higher Education represented by USC's Thornton School of Music and looked at its Contemporary Music Division. In this installment, I will detail the cutting edge Popular Music program that I observed on a recent visit.



The more I sat in on classes at USC's Thornton School, and talked with faculty about their approach to teaching the more I came to realize that Dean Rob Cutietta has been quietly encouraging some quite revolutionary new ideas. Vice Dean of the Contemporary Music Division Chris Sampson summed this up for me: "Music Schools train musicians in a linear way. They naturally start at the beginning and you gradually get better. There is merit to this approach. But we have developed a non-linear way of teaching. It's serpentine-like, which the old model does not allow for. My approach can best be described as 'the joy of the unexpected outcome,' which quite simply allows musicians to develop in all directions. There is total flexibility and openness. The success of our students I feel is a direct result of this approach."

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Rick Schmunk, Chair of Music Production and Technology, speaks in a very similar way after re-examining the old model of teaching. He advocates a "flipped classroom" approach, which basically changes the traditional role of the teacher completely, from being the main focus in the classroom to one of mediator and producer of materials and videos. Such an approach places the responsibility for learning firmly with an empowered student group. This made me think of all those years I spent at the feet of various academic gurus, then the accepted route for the transmission of knowledge and wisdom, which Schmunk smilingly describes as the "sage on the stage."

Such empowerment extends to

arranging of internships in the music industry, which is left exclusively to the students. This boosts students' confidence and selling instincts;

opening doors in the business but allowing the students as young professional artists to manage their own opportunities;

making musical arrangements from the most chaotic of material with the refinement of new sounds such as string quartets in song writing (George Martin would be delighted I am sure!)

establishing a new way of teaching Music History in a non-linear way relating it to the student's own musical experience.

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Empowerment is also manifested in the School's Community Engagement activities, a program that Cutietta rightly boasts about. The School has 90-110 students volunteering to take part even though they earn no credits and only receive a few small fees. The program has grown to be the largest of its type on campus. It is all part of USC's overall mission to support Social Entrepreneurship by working with the homeless, with chemotherapy patients, people suffering with dementia, and those in prisons. The students receive training specific to these new skills of interaction and connection and they describe their experiences as "transformational" and "life changing."

The Thornton School is part of the massive edifice of USC with its 43,000 students and academic programs ranging from medicine to engineering. The School has about 1000 students at both the Undergrad, Graduate and DMA levels with 435 in the Contemporary Music Program and students drawn from across the States and globally. Tuition is comparable with the best US Schools at $51,442 at the Undergrad level and the School is able to offer scholarship support to many of its students to help with this burden. The Popular Music Program has grown during the brief time it has been in existence becoming even more selective than the School of Medicine and about even with Harvard, with a 6-7% acceptance rate from the 400+ applications that are received every year. This is impressive and shows clearly that Thornton is filling a need nationally for those wanting a new type of musical training plus the full advantages of a university style education.

I was also relieved and delighted to note that the School still allows applications from prospective students who don't read or write music although they will be expected to learn these skills as part of the program if accepted. This means that Paul McCartney and Jimi Hendrix could still get in if we played "Back to the Future."

Given the excellence of the Contemporary Music Program, it is not surprising that the industry is taking careful note of the Thornton School and establishing close working relationships and collaborations with it (the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the GRAMMY Foundation, the Recording Academy, Roland, KORG, ASCAP, and BMI, among others). The chances of students being employed at the end of their formal training are high. The School is well positioned to continue to develop its approach together with the small handful of other Schools in the US and Europe that offer similar training opportunities, such as Berklee School of Music, Berklee Valencia, the Royal Northern School of Music, the School of Music at Leeds University, the ICMP in London and those in the Netherlands and Freiburg.

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What effect is this having upon the training of musicians specializing in the classical canon, an area of our culture that many people would argue is far more valued and valuable than the ephemera of the pop music world? It's an interesting question. One part of the music world is expanding and enjoying relevance and a visibility that can only be dreamt of by the classical world, a world that many see as diminishing in importance and significance. The nexus between these two worlds may be at USC and the Thornton School with its balanced emphasis on both. (Berklee School of Music and Boston Conservatory will have a similar opportunity following their recently announced merger). It has already done so much to reinvent its academic training program that it is natural to ask what are the further plans to allow full integration. Students from the two musical worlds meet on campus on a daily basic to chat, argue, attend classes together, have fun, and share experiences and discoveries. It would certainly be an extraordinary achievement to redefine an approach to music education that sees no difference or distinction in the definition of music in the contemporary world.

But such an agenda is fraught with challenges. Indeed, how might a reimagined classical training retain the rich fundamentals of the classical tradition while capturing the dynamism of the pop world? How would students develop the necessary mastery of their instruments? How could the studio model of teaching be developed? Could an emphasis on chamber music with its creativity and flexibility replace the traditional focus on large ensemble performance? Could Entrepreneurial thinking and Social Responsibility become embedded in a school's DNA? Could modern technology be incorporated into the training? How might the concert production values of the pop world revitalize the tired world of classical presentation? Would this help rebuild the audience? And how could faculty be drawn in to support this new model?

The Thornton School has already shown itself to be effective in the management of change so maybe it could successfully take on these challenges. If it wants to seriously pursue such a campaign it will need time and tremendous energy and focus. It already has the academic infrastructure and pop world connections in place and those could make for a game changing development in the classical world.

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A family that travels together, stays together! Travel offers an excellent opportunity for family bonding and relaxation. When you are traveling with family and that too with kids planning eases out a lot of unexpected issues that you may encounter on your trip.

For our family trips, we always plan in advance. Here are 5 essential tips to plan a perfect family holiday which will be unforgettable, something that one can cherish as a beautiful memory and make the whole journey smoother.

1. Advance Planning

Planning well in advance pays rich dividends. Plan family trips as much as 3 to 6 months in advance. This helps to get the best deals in booking flights and hotels.

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2. Search Flights

We spend quite some time doing research on everything we would need, before finalizing on our options. To start with, we look out for the best rates for flights to and from our destinations on the net. We use Skyscanner a lot to check out not only the most economical flights, but also to check the cheapest month to plan our trip based on the airfares. As airfares form a major chunk of the budget, this helps us a lot.

3. Choose a Home away from Home

There is nothing like a bad hotel room to put you off on your holiday! After all the hectic activities/travels through the day, one yearns for a good night's sleep in a good, comfortable bed. While booking an accommodation, we look for best deals and also value for money. To this end, it is our experience that we cannot rely on only one search engine for getting what we want. We depend on a couple of search engines for our research before we zero in on our choice.

The ones we generally use are TripAdvisor, Expedia, Hotels.com and Booking.com.

We usually shortlist a couple of places from Expedia or any of the others mentioned above and check it out on TripAdvisor.

TripAdvisor helps us in choosing the best because:

We can search for hotels here and it helps in checking the rates offered on different sites and it also helps us in booking through the one that has the best deal on.

The traveler reviews it features helps us decide, though a word of caution here, one should not look at just a couple of reviews and decide, because most of the places will have both positive as well as negative reviews. The trick is to find the one that has more positive reviews!



4. Decide on what are must see places

Another very important aspect we focus on before embarking upon our trip is the attractions and activities we would want to include in our itinerary.

We again do an online research here and short list the must see places and activities for each destination as per our interests, the time we have and of course our Budget. One thing to remember is it may not be possible to cover everything in a given destination, especially if you have a cramped itinerary or if some places may be tedious for few members of the family.

We always include a Hop on Hop of Tour of our destination, as this provides us an orientation of the major attractions.

Lastly, we again do a lot of research on the net, also it is prudent to book tickets in advance for attractions where you anticipate queues. For example, on our trip to Rome, we had booked skip the line tickets to the Vatican Museums which saved us a lot of time and thus saved us from standing in the queue for a long time! For planning and booking our activities we again use Expedia as well as Isango, and we have found them to be good and providing value for money.



5. Before your journey begins, have a Residence to Residence Itinerary ready

The devil lies in the details. So plan down to the smallest detail before locking your house and driving off to a holiday.

This is what we do. We have everything planned with costs when we start, right from how to reach the airport, how to reach our hotel in our destinations, in which restaurants we will eat, what attractions we will visit on which day, how do we commute and reach these places, etc., etc.

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These above mentioned tips work for us and I am sure would for everyone. So the next time you plan your vacation with your family, just give a thought to these tips. Of course, there is fun in being spontaneous and going without an itinerary. But when it comes to family travel or traveling with kids, you do not want take a chance!

Tell us about your travels and what you feel about the above mentioned tips.

Originally published on Voyager travel blog site.
Well, wasn't that just perfect? Sunday's Brussels "March Against Fear" cancelled. For fear of terrorist attack.

More than four months after the stunning Isis terror attacks on Paris, our European allies clearly remain thoroughly disorganized. And the US, the leader of NATO, not incidentally, while fortunate not to have such a large and until recently growing group of potential recruits within as does Europe, is hardly doing better. President Barack Obama, who infamously spent more time tangoing in Argentina than he did publicly addressing the stunning terrorist strike on the capital of the European Union, hasn't done much more to get after Isis than he had done before and after Paris. Not to mention San Bernardino.

As a result, crude though Donald Trump and the other still marginally potential Republican presidential nominee Ted Cruz most assuredly are, Obama is doing his preferred successor Hillary Clinton no real favors here. Nor, more alarmingly, is he offering much in the way of a creative and tough profile in leadership on Isis, which he has repeatedly -- if ever so belatedly -- declared a huge threat.

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As a result, that consummate creature of the media culture Donald Trump has a very big opportunity.

Obama tangos in Argentina in the aftermath of the Brussels terrorist attacks. The tune is the same one Arnold Schwarzenegger dances to in True Lies.

Over four months ago, just after the Paris horror show, I discussed a number of things that any serious ongoing student of national security affairs would identify as priorities for Obama and his rather vast National Security Council apparat as it takes on Isis. Though the Obama administration has labored mightily in the media, especially since Obama drew major flack for tangoing away in Argentina with next to nothing to say about Brussels, to show anti-Isis progress -- these recent reports of top Isis leaders killed in the otherwise top secret drone wars are unfortunately reminiscent of similar Bush/Cheney reports about Al Qaeda leaders as the Iraq occupation was going up in flames -- the reality is that the most impactful anti-Isis news of the week is something carried out by folks that Washington likes to diss.

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In Syria, Assad regime forces, facilitated by major Russian air strikes, just took Palmyra back from Isis. The fact is that Vladimir Putin's Syrian venture has been far more successful than Obama's. Which is a pretty good talking point for Trump, that great admirer of Putin.

Better still, for the billionaire bully boy, that is, is what Obama might have done but did not.

The key to defeating Isis was, and, sadly, still is, to destroy its lines of communication, both in the usual sense of the word and its military connotation.

A new anti-Isis alliance, which was unfortunately derailed when Turkey shot down a Russian fighter-bomber which strayed over its territory for a few seconds and has yet to re-emerge as a serious potential, should immediately move to shut down the ability of Isis and its supporters to communicate and propagandize across social media and the Internet as a whole. All their sites should be wiped out, their nodes of operation destroyed or denied to them. Isis has declared war on the West, so its online presence should be deleted.

More than four months after Paris, this has not happened.

Turning to the more military sense of lines of communication, the ability of Isis to fund itself, both through business revenues and fundraising from other extreme religious ideologues, should be eliminated.

That means going after Islamic State commerce, especially the transport of oil, as the US has done rather fitfully and as Russia did more consistently before achieving its most important mission of saving the Assad regime and extending its basing in Syria.

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More than four months after Paris, this has not happened.

Air strikes are of limited utility in cities but they are especially effective against targets moving out in the open, where they are vulnerable and more separated from non-combatants.

The US Navy has an especially big role to play with oil that makes its way outside Islamic State territory. It should be seized or destroyed as contraband of war wherever it is discovered. And anyone who is in possession of this oil or who facilitates its movement should be forcibly detained as co-conspirators, their vessels or other conveyances sunk or otherwise destroyed. It appears Isis is getting some sophisticated help. There should be no Switzerlands in this conflict.

In addition to Isis commerce, Isis fundraising needs to be shut down.

More than four months after Paris, this has not happened.

Our dear friends in Saudi Arabia and some of the other oil-rich Gulf Arab states have, despite their pledges, mostly pulled a disappearing act in the anti-Isis war. Rather than confronting the psychotically extreme Sunnis of Isis, they are much more interested in countering Shiite Iran and pursuing their still sputtering war in Yemen against Iranian sympathizers and tribes that dislike the House of Saud.

While they've helped little in the actual fighting against Isis, they can play a much more important role. We need them to shut down the flow of funds from extremist religious sympathizers in their countries to Isis. And to make sure that they are in no way facilitating the flow of commerce for Islamic State.

In addition to waging cyber war, financial war, and aerial war, an enhanced ground component, inserted by air into Islamic State territory, may be effective. Not a conventional invasion per se for the purpose of seizing large swathes of territory but something non-linear; namely, the establishment of forward operating bases for elite special ops, airborne, light infantry, and marine forces from several nations to conduct devastating raids along the internal road system and against other targets of opportunity.

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Technically, these bases, established by aerial incursion in empty stretches of Islamic State territory, could be easily surrounded. So much the better to lure Isis forces into the open where they can be destroyed by tactical air assets and tanks, mobile artillery, and rocket launchers.

More than four months after Paris, this has not happened.

France and Russia have plenty of elite troops to carry out this raiding function. If they want, the British, historically very good at this sort of thing, can join the party, too, along with other NATO members, since the Paris attacks fall under NATO's mutual security pact. Iranian forces may or may not be interested in joining in, but it's best to avoid running afoul of the Sunni-Shia divide.

The US ground role can remain very limited, with a focus on more spotting for air attacks and logistical operations. The principal US role can remain air-oriented, with US forces taking the lead in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, air ops coordination, aerial refueling, and the resupply of ground elements inside Islamic State.

Quite ridiculously, more than four months after Paris, very little has been done. Isis-controlled territory is being rolled back, but only incrementally. And the same, more crucially, is the situation with regard to Isis commerce, especially the oil trade.

Despite our massive capability in surveillance, satellite and all forms of electronic, even the Obama administration claims that little more than a quarter of Isis commerce has been shut down since Paris.

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Not surprisingly, the Russian media is crowing over the capture of the crucial Syrian city of Palmyra from Isis.

That's just lame for an administration which has so aggressively pursued a global surveillance apparat.

The sad reality is that Obama got Isis wrong from the beginning. As I wrote at the time, he wasted months on analysis/paralysis and diplomatic dithering while Isis swept across Syria and Iraq before he finally intervened with air strikes. Meanwhile, Isis had grown into something of unprecedented scope.

Obama is right to be extremely wary of military interventionism. Which has not stopped him from such a big mistake as the pointless and predictably failed escalation in Afghanistan.

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The president wasted a lot of time on analysis/paralysis with Afghanistan, too.

The reality is that sometimes the trigger does need to be pulled. And pulled fast, too. With Isis, Obama has been consistently late and light.

With a couple more terrorist spectaculars, his preferred successor may well be in even more trouble than she is already.

Trump, as I may have mentioned on occasion with more than a little vituperation, is an international embarrassment who would help the jihadists more than hurt. And his aggressive know-nothingism remains an especially appalling and depressingly dominant presence in the media culture. But he is also crazy like a fox.

While his efforts over the last week to appear presidential provided more than enough new fodder for knowledgeable observers convinced he is a dangerous buffoon, he is also crazy like a fox. I don't believe he doesn't have more advisors than the paltry handful he named on geopolitics and national security. He's probably just not saying who the others are, in part to preserve their anonymity and part to extend his own would-be superhero mystique.

He's beginning to present a leadership profile that doesn't make sense from a conventional standpoint -- dissing NATO as a bunch of free riders on the American dime at a time when the transatlantic alliance needs strengthening -- but might prove appealing to a less than sophisticated mass audience.

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Trump's talking, basically, a new version of "America First" which is nonetheless non-isolationist, one that would supposedly play to his Art of the Deal strengths. If he plays the role with bravura and sophistication, it just might fly.

Trump is unelectable, you say, with historic unfavorable ratings? Maybe. But Hillary isn't far behind on that high unfavorables front and the night is young. (Bernie Sanders, you say, with better ratings? Sure, at the moment, because nobody much has been attacking him or his honeymoon-in-the-Soviet Union past. I like him and he is a major force. He has also been stomped by Hillary in most primary elections -- trailing her in the actual Democratic popular vote by nearly 2.6 million -- relying instead on good showings in low-turnout/activist-oriented caucus states for his big but decidedly trailing haul of national convention delegates.)

Which is another way of saying that a couple more terrorist spectaculars while Obama tangos, with an economic downdraft thrown in for good measure, and there will be no Democratic laughter and champagne on the evening of November 8th.
Jaargen FranaAois via Getty Images Computer key blue - Unlike

Sunday evening in Lahore, a suicide bomber attacked a public park full of people celebrating Easter. More than 60 people were killed in the incident and hundreds injured. Soon after, Facebook activated their 'Safety Check', so people can let their friends and family know that they are safe.

However, due to a geo-tagging error, a lot of people from India, UK and even the US received notification to check-in via that feature. It made many people wonder if they had just missed a terror attack in their location. A lot of people reacted angrily on social media. Facebook has apologized about this goof-up in a post:

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"We activated Safety Check today in Lahore, Pakistan, after an explosion that took place there. This kind of bug is counter to our intent. We worked quickly to resolve the issue and we apologize to anyone who mistakenly received the notification."

We activated Safety Check today in Lahore, Pakistan, after an explosion that took place there. We hope the people in the... Posted by Disaster Response on Facebook on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Facebook launched safety check-in feature in October 2014, then activating it several times during the crisis of Paris, Earthquake in Nepal, Cyclone in South Pacific and many such incidents. This was the first time when Facebook's feature acted up and made people uncomfortable.

Many users got this 'bug' according to the social network, but they didn't specify any numbers. Some were even thought that they just missed a terrorist attack.

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Is everyone on FB getting this? pic.twitter.com/HE4F4tGYMx  Rameez (@Sychlops) March 27, 2016

this really freaked me out until I realized that Facebook thought I was in Pakistan pic.twitter.com/3w6iHCsIaC  Rachel Zarrell (@rachelzarrell) March 27, 2016

There are better ways to ask a guy currently in Montana why he hasn't logged in to Facebook for a long time. pic.twitter.com/sRpaQflWrt  Chris Sacca (@sacca) March 27, 2016

Thankfully I'm nowhere near the #Lahore bombing. Facebook Safety Check gave me a fright for sec making me think something nearby happened.  JoshWotes (@JSe3ow) March 27, 2016

Last year, Facebook had faced backlash over activating the feature for the Paris disaster but not for Beirut.
Hindustan Times via Getty Images NEW DELHI, INDIA - MARCH 1: Protestors during dharna at Jantar Mantar against the speeches given by VHP, BJP leader and MOS, Minister of State for HRD Ram Shankar Katheria in Agra openly inciting people to kill Muslims, on March 1, 2016 in New Delhi, India. Three people were booked on Tuesday for alleged hate speech during a condolence meet in Agra. Union Minister Ram Shankar Katheria and Fatehpur Sikri MP Chaudhary Babulal, who too allegedly made inflammatory comments, were not named in the FIR. Mr. Katheria, however, claimed that he had not targeted any community in his speech. (Photo by Arun Sharma/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

NEW DELHI -- In a rather gloomy testimony of electoral politics in India, a study by a data-driven website has revealed that candidates can improve their chances of winning an election by 30 percent if they make hate speeches.

A study conducted by IndiaSpend showed that candidates are 30 percent more likely to win elections if they have hate speeches cases against them.

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In comparison, candidates who have criminal cases against them have a 20 percent greater chance of winning elections, and candidates who have no criminal cases against them can only boost their chances by 10 percent.

"So, being a suspect in a hate-speech case provides a candidate with a better chance of victory," the study concluded.

IndiaSpend, "the countrys first data journalism initiative," has used self-disclosed crime records of candidates who have contested various elections over the past 12 years.

Out of 82,970 candidates who have run for various Parliamentary and State Assembly Elections in the past 12 years, 8,103 have won in the polls, according to the study.

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Out of the 17,892 candidates with criminal records, 3,597 have won elections.

Out of the 399 candidates with cases of hate speech registered against them, 121 have won elections.

Presently, 70 lawmakers in Parliament and the State Legislative Assemblies have hate speeches pending against them.

The Bharatiya Janata Party has given tickets to most number of candidates with hate-speech cases, IndiaSpend reported.

Out of the 70 lawmakers in Parliament and the State Legislative Assemblies, who have hate speeches pending against them, 28 are from the BJP.

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Indian techie Raghavendran Ganeshan who had gone missing after the Brussels terror attack last Tuesday has been confirmed dead by the Belgian authorities.

RIP Raghvendran. The Belgian authorities have identified Raghavendran as one of the victims of barbarian terror attacks of March 22, the Indian embassy in Brussels tweeted.

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RIP Raghvendran!The Belgian authorities hv identified Raghvendran as 1 of d victims f barbarian terror attacks of March 22.@SushmaSwaraj 1/2  India in Belgium (@IndEmbassyBru) March 28, 2016

The Ministry of External Affairs said that his mortal remains were being handed over to the family at the Amsterdam airport.

Mortal remains r in process of being handed2family f Raghvendran to be taken 2 India from Amsterdam airport.@gauravcsawant@aditi_tyagi  India in Belgium (@IndEmbassyBru) March 28, 2016

Ganeshan, an Infosys employee, had been living in Brussels for the past four years with his wife. His wife recently returned to India and gave birth to their first child.

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The Belgian government has confirmed after DNA tests that Ganeshan was one of the victims of the attacks.

Ganeshan had gone missing after the bomb blasts in Brussels last Tuesday and was believed to be among the injured even as the Indian embassy in Belgium was actively searching for him.

He had called his mother on Skype on the unfortunate day, hours ahead of the Brussels terror attacks. He had told her that he was about to leave for work. When his brother, who lives in Germany, called their mother to inform her about the terror strikes, she realized they happened to be on the route her son takes every day to get to work.

In an interview to The News Minute, Ganeshans mother said she initially thought the attack was at the airport.

"But later there were news flashes that there was a blast in the metro line- between Merode to Park station. This is the metro route my son uses to commute to office every day," she said.

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Ganeshans family lives in Mumbai, while his wife and new born child are in Chennai.

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A 25-year-old woman committed suicide in south Delhi's Defence Colony and her body was found hanging in her home on 27 March morning. The former model has allegedly left behind a suicide note where she has said that her husband beat her up brutally and she couldn't bear with the torture anymore.

Priyanka Kapoor married Nitin Chawla in January this year. According to a report on The Indian Express, her family has alleged that Chawla used to physically abuse her often and mentally torture her for dowry. Chawla owns several pubs in the city. The landlord of the GK II property he runs a pub in told the police that he is in a financial crisis and had not paid rent for two months.

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The Indian Express reports: "At 12.30 am on March 27, police received a call from Priyankas family members, who said her room was locked from inside and she was not responding to their pleas to open the door."

We broke open the door with help from fire brigade personnel, Deputy Commissioner of Police (south) Prem Nath told the paper.

India Today reports that two suicide notes were recovered from the house. In one of the notes, Kapoor said that she had to marry Chawla out of desperation. She added that marrying Chawla was the biggest mistake of her life.

"The police got a call from Priyanka's family member and reached the spot. Priyanka's mother and husband were standing outside the room which was locked from inside. Police broke open the door in their presence with members of the fire brigade. Priyanka was found hanging from the ceiling fan. She was shifted to AIIMS, where the doctor declared her brought dead," a Delhi Police official is quoted as saying in the India Today report.

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Chawla, who was formerly married, divorced his first wife to marry Kapoor. His 10-year-old son from his first marriage had come to stay at their house and reportedly, Kapoor was not happy with the arrangement. An altercation followed, after which Chawla allegedly asked Kapoor to leave their house. "Nitin wanted me to leave his house, I am leaving the world," Kapoor is believed to have said in one of the suicide notes.

On the basis of statements from Dimpi Kapoor, Kapoor's sister, the police has registered a case against Chawla under Section 115 (abetment of offence punishable with death or imprisonment for life) , 498A (husband or relative subjecting her to cruelty), 304B (where death is caused by any burns or bodily injury or occurs otherwise) and 34 (common intention).

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ASSOCIATED PRESS Activist of a Dalit organization participate in a candle light vigil holding photographs of Indian student Rohith Vemula in Hyderabad, India, Wednesday, Jan 20, 2016. The activists were protesting the death of Vemula who, along with four others, was barred from using some facilities at his university in the southern tech-hub of Hyderabad. The protesters accused Hyderabad University's vice chancellor and a federal minister of unfairly demanding punishment for the five lower-caste students after they clashed last year with a group of students supporting the governing Hindu nationalist party. (AP Photo/Mahesh Kumar A.)

NEW DELHI -- A case of conflict of interest has emerged in connection with Dhamavarapu Varoodhini, a metropolitan magistrate in Hyderabad, and the bail hearing of students embroiled in the Rohith Vemula row.

The Hindustan Times reported today that Judge Varoodhini is married to M. Vijaykanth, an active member of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Sangh Parivar.

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Judge Varoodhini will hear the bail pleas of 27 students and two teachers, who were arrested during the protests against Vice Chancellor Podile Appa Rao, who returned to campus after two months, last week.

Many students believe that Vemula killed himself because of persecution by the University at the behest of BJP leaders.

The conflict of interest in the bail hearing runs even deeper.

HT reported that Vijaykanth, the judge's husband, works in the law firm of Ramachander Rao, a BJP member of the Telangana legislative council.

Rao is one of the men against whom a case was registered under the SC/ST Atrocities Act after Vemula's sucide in January, and Dontha Prashanth, who filed the complaint against him, is also among the students who want to get bail.

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Vijaykanth told HT that he was married to Varoodhini, but refused to acknowledge any conflict of interest. "We dont have interest in these matters, he said.

I dont like the judiciary to be politicized. I have no idea. I have nothing to do with it," Rao told HT.

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Hindustan Times via Getty Images LUCKNOW, INDIA - OCTOBER 9: Uttar Pradesh Minister Azam Khan addressing party workers during 2nd day of Samajwadi party 9th convention on October 9, 2014 in Lucknow, India. (Photo by Deepak Gupta/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)

During the last Lok Sabha elections I happened to be at a rally where Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan made his infamous comment about Muslim faujis winning the battle of Kargil for India. The Election Commission investigated him for that comment, based on a complaint that it incited communal tensions but I remember in the village of Masuri where the rally took place no one was upset. When Azam Khan said hum kuttey ka bachcha, size chhote hai. Aap bada bhai, size bada hai. Yeh hai farak the crowd roared in laughter. He was hailed on stage as dil ka tukda and the crowd lapped up his fire and brimstone, even though it played very differently in media the next day.

I thought of Azam Khan as I read IndiaSpends discomfiting study that suggests hate speech accused are three times more likely to win an election in India. The figures seem clear. Their analysis of data over the last 12 years shows 82,970 candidates with no criminal records contested but only 8,103 won. Thats a success rate of 10%. 17,892 candidates with criminal records contested and 3,597 won. Thats a success rate of 20%. And finally 399 candidates with registered hate speech ran for office and 121 won implying a success rate of 30%.

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Azam Khan or Sadhvi Niranjan Jyotis success comes from many factors  related to religion, caste, their community roots, their grassroots work, their proximity to powerful politicians.

At one level, having witnessed the appeal of Azam Khan in the dusty village of Masuri, its easy to believe that IndiaSpend backs up what we understood intrinsically with real data. But we should be careful how we read the data. For example, we cannot say on the basis of these facts alone that data shows hate speech is three times as likely to be a ticket to success in Indian electoral politics.

Azam Khan or Sadhvi Niranjan Jyotis success comes from many factors  related to religion, caste, their community roots, their grassroots work, their proximity to powerful politicians. Their fiery speech could help them at the polls but there is also nothing to indicate that they would be any less successful if they had not tipped over into the territory of hate speech. Singling out hate speech is problematic even though it makes for clickworthy headlines.

In the rough and tumble reality of Indian politics many politicians, even ones without criminal records, often have neighbourhood toughs as handlers and managers.

Look at it another way. How many of the 121 candidates, who won despite hate speech cases registered against them, were powerful political figures in their own right and thus likely to be successful anyway? While a hate speech charge against an Amit Shah is factually correct does it in any way affect his electoral fortune one way or another?

Theres no way to determine that from the data. Thus while candidates with hate-speech cases against them were three times more successful in elections is a fact, it would be tricky to read cause and effect into that. To put it flippantly, we could also analyse data and say candidates above the height of 54 have X-times the success rate as compared to candidates who are shorter. It would be a fact but not particularly meaningful.

This is different from an earlier analysis that figured out how many sitting politicians were part of political dynasties. There one could draw far stronger conclusions about the impact of dynasty on political fortunes. Here its a lot murkier.

In the rough and tumble reality of Indian politics many politicians, even ones without criminal records, often have neighbourhood toughs as handlers and managers. Some of those then leverage those connections to political power themselves at some point.

As many as 70 sitting MPs or MLAs have hate speech cases pending against them with the BJP way ahead of the pack with 28.

That political experience probably stands them in good stead when they actually contest the polls which could in turn have some bearing on that 20% success rate as well. On the other hand while the 90% failure rate of candidates without criminal records is disheartening, just those bare numbers do not indicate the strengths of their political resumes either.

What is indisputably true is that records show an accusation of hate speech is not necessarily a political liability. For many of these figures, being outspoken is part of their political USP. While the law might determine whether they fall afoul of IPC 154A or IPC 295A, for their followers it only adds to their appeal. A Yogi Adityanath would have long learned to mind his tongue if he had to suffer true political costs for his many intemperate remarks.

As many as 399 candidates with hate-speech cases have been fielded by political parties over the year and again the BJP leads the pack with 97 though it's not clear how many of these are repeat offenders as opposed to one slip-of-the-tongue incident.

Thats where the IndiaSpend data offers up its most troubling findings which unfortunately is not its headline. As many as 70 sitting MPs or MLAs have hate speech cases pending against them with the BJP way ahead of the pack with 28.

But the fact that almost all political parties, national or regional, are represented in the tally points to the conclusion that whether or not hate speech increases their electoral success rates, political parties do not take hate speech very seriously or that one person's hate speech is simply another person's manifesto.

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As many as 399 candidates with hate-speech cases have been fielded by political parties over the year and again the BJP leads the pack with 97 though it's not clear how many of these are repeat offenders as opposed to one slip-of-the-tongue incident. The parties may think hate speech charges are not serious or even worse, they might think, such fiery candidates are likely to be more successful.

Either way that is far more troubling than any number-crunching about how many times more successful hate-speech accused are in elections.

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Self-Promotion: An Introverts Guide

DIY self-promotion is hard enough, but as an introvert the idea of aggressively marketing yourself and pushing your music on strangers becomes even more daunting. Here we look at some ways your more introverted tendencies can be used to your advantage.

_______________________________________

Guest Post by Casey van Wensem on the Sonicbids Blog

The common prescription for success in the music world these days goes something like this: hustle, hustle, and more hustle. Without a record label or publicist backing you (and even sometimes when you have their help), most promotion for DIY musicians turns into self-promotion. If youre an introverted musician, however, self-promotion is probably the last thing you ever want to do, and even saying the word "self-promotion" probably leaves you with a gross taste in your mouth.

We all know that self-promotion is essential for success, but for an introvert, the whole process of sharing your music with the world is typically exhausting at best and terrifying at worst. You may think that as an introvert, youre simply not designed for self-promotion, but the truth is, if you use your nature to your advantage, you can become just as comfortable when youre out promoting your music as when youre practicing at home or playing onstage.





Listen first

According to author Susan Cain, introverts "listen more than they talk, think before they speak, and often feel as if they express themselves better in writing than in conversation." While you could see your tendency to listen first as a disadvantage when it comes to meeting people, think about it from the other persons perspective: while most people who engage in self-promotion only want to talk about themselves, youre actually willing to listen to what other people have to say. This makes you a welcome break from all of the other musicians out there who are only focused on their own agenda. Listening before you speak may not be the quickest way to get the word out there about your music, but its the best way to develop the sustainable relationshipsyou need.

Stop thinking of people as "contacts"

Marketing jargon tends to make a mess of our personal relationships. Instead of thinking of the people we meet online or out in the world as other people just like us, were told to think of them as "contacts" or "leads." If all youre looking for with each new relationship is a career boost or an opportunity to make a sale, then youre devaluing other people as well as yourself.

Instead of getting sucked into the idea of dehumanizing our interactions by constantly pushing a marketing agenda, focus on cultivating friendships first and pushing your agenda second. Seeing your interactions in the industry this way actually helps to take a lot of the fear and doubt out of self-promotion; its a lot easier to ask people how their day is going than it is to ask them to buy your album.

Ask permission

If youve never heard of permission marketing, go learn about it right now. It may just become your new best friend. In contrast to other marketing terms, permission marketing is a term that actually helps us think about other people as individuals. The golden rule of permission marketing is essentially to "market unto others as you would like to be marketed to." Basically, before you try to make a sale, make sure the people youre selling to are actually interested in what you have to say. You can do this by asking people to sign up to your email list, for example, or by contacting bloggers who have already written about your music.

"We tend to think that peoples default mode is not wanting to buy," says business strategist and Quiet Revolution author Tara Gentile. "Thats not true. Look around: our default mode is absolutely wanting to buy! The real problem is that people dont want to be sold to; they want to believe theyre in control of the situation." Permission marketing gives people control over what information they receive, and at the same time, gives you access to people who want to know more about you. This takes a lot of the pressure out of the self-promotion scenario: rather than cold-calling people, now youre offering them information about something theyre already interested in.

Embrace modesty

As an introvert, and a creative one at that, admitting success can sometimes be the hardest thing to do. Modesty drives introverts to do great work, but it can also be an impediment to sharing that work with the world. Some people try to compensate for this by boasting about their work, even when they dont feel satisfied with it. While some extroverts may be able to pull this off, introverts attempting this strategy usually come off as awkward or insecure. So instead of trying to brag about your music all the time, focus on making great music first, and then work on sharing it with the world.

Boasting also puts the attention on you, rather than your music, which is exactly the opposite of what most introverts want. Introverted musicians may have a hard time talking about themselves, but get them started on their favorite band, and they can talk for days. Similarly, you can become a better self-promoter by shifting any unwanted attention away from yourself and toward whats really important  your music. If you make your self-promotion more about your art than yourself, youll have an easier time putting yourself (and your music) out there.

All of this might not make self-promotion fun for you, but it could take a lot of stress out of the situation, and make you a better self-promoter in the process. By reshaping the way you think about sales and marketing, you can actually begin to see your introversion as a strength rather than a weakness in this field. Then, next time someone uses the words "self-promotion" or talks about "the hustle," you should be able to fight the urge to jump off the nearest bridge, and you may even be able to talk about your favorite methods of sharing your art with the world.

Casey van Wensem is a freelance composer, musician, and writer living in Kelowna, B.C., Canada. You can hear his musical work at birdscompanionmusic.com and read his written work atcaseyvanwensemwriting.com.

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A member of the federal government has spoken out against what he calls the disturbing trend of allowing employers to opt out of state-regulated workers compensation.What opt-out programs really are all about is enabling employers to reduce benefits, US Department of Labor Secretary Thomas Perez said during a recent interview with National Public Radio.[Opt-out programs] create really a pathway to poverty for people who get injured on the job.Perez vowed that his agency will use its bully pulpit to stop the trends, emphasizing that it leaves workers without medical care and wage replacement payments if they are injured on the job.His comments come as an increasing number of states consider legislation that would allow businesses to design their own workers compensation programs rather than purchase insurance in the government-regulated marketplace. While no proposals have been adopted thus far, Perez has been leading a Labor Department investigation of opt-out alternatives that he says are undermining the basic bargain for American workers.The probe focuses on the opt-out option in practice in Texas and Oklahoma that is utilized by thousands of employers. While proponents say the option has saved businesses millions of dollars since inception, the plans provide lower and fewer payments than traditional workers compensation insurance plans.Opt out plans in both states are also said to make it more difficult for workers to qualify for benefits and to choose their own healthcare providers.All of that means more financial burden on the worker, Perez said.If you work in a full-time job, you ought to be able to put food on the table, he said. If you get hurt on that job, you still should be able to put food on the able, and these laws are really undermining that basic bargain.While the Labor Department Secretary declined to provide details of the probe, Perez said his agency sent a letter last month to Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown disclosing contact with a company that is offering services to employers in Texas and Oklahoma who opt out of workers comp.NPR believes that company may be PartnerSource, a Dallas-based firm that writes and supports nearly all opt-out plans in Oklahoma and about half of the plans in Texas. An agency official confirmed to the news service that PartnerSource is the focus of the investigation, though President Bill Minick has not responded to requests for comment.
Brayton Elementary students donate blankets they made to residents of Louison House. Arriving at Louison house. Students from Marie McCarron's leadership after-school program 'Giving Back' also collected canned goods. PreviousNext

Brayton Students Give to Louison House

ADAMS, Mass.  Brayton Elementary students learned how to give back to the community by donating food and handmade blankets to the Louison House.

Students from Marie McCarron's leadership after-school program "Giving Back" decided they wanted to do something nice for the residents at the Louison House, the non-profit family support center.

"We show kids how to give back to the community and how to be part of the community," McCarron said. "Leadership has to start at an early age, and you can't wait until college to learn how to be a leader."

McCarron said after the students made blankets, with material donated to the school by Williams College, they had to decide what they wanted to do with them. The children said they wanted to help the homeless.

"They all worked together and they made the blankets," she said. "They also brought in the food ... some of these kids brought in one can and they were so proud that they were able to give back."

McCarron said she hopes the program empowers students and teaches them it really just takes a can of food to make a difference.

"It opens up their world knowing that they could give something small and make a big difference," McCarron said. "They see that there is something out there bigger than they are and they can be part of that and make a change. Just one can of food makes a difference in this world."

The children delivered the goods to the Family LIfe Support Center at Louison House in Adams on Wednesday.

McCarron said the students also decided to make book marks for the North Adams Public Library and clean up garbage around the school.
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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
Imperial Valley News Center

Voice-controlled calorie counter

Cambridge, Massachusetts - For people struggling with obesity, logging calorie counts and other nutritional information at every meal is a proven way to lose weight. The technique does require consistency and accuracy, however, and when it fails, its usually because people don't have the time to find and record all the information they need.

A few years ago, a team of nutritionists from Tufts University who had been experimenting with mobile-phone apps for recording caloric intake approached members of the Spoken Language Systems Group at MITs Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), with the idea of a spoken-language application that would make meal logging even easier.

This week, at the International Conference on Acoustics, Speech, and Signal Processing in Shanghai, the MIT researchers are presenting a Web-based prototype of their speech-controlled nutrition-logging system.

With it, the user verbally describes the contents of a meal, and the system parses the description and automatically retrieves the pertinent nutritional data from an online database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The data is displayed together with images of the corresponding foods and pull-down menus that allow the user to refine their descriptions  selecting, for instance, precise quantities of food. But those refinements can also be made verbally. A user who begins by saying, For breakfast, I had a bowl of oatmeal, bananas, and a glass of orange juice can then make the amendment, I had half a banana, and the system will update the data it displays about bananas while leaving the rest unchanged.

What [the Tufts nutritionists] have experienced is that the apps that were out there to help people try to log meals tended to be a little tedious, and therefore people didnt keep up with them, says James Glass, a senior research scientist at CSAIL, who leads the Spoken Language Systems Group. So they were looking for ways that were accurate and easy to input information.

The first author on the new paper is Mandy Korpusik, an MIT graduate student in electrical engineering and computer science. Shes joined by Glass, whos her thesis advisor; her fellow graduate student Michael Price; and by Calvin Huang, an undergraduate researcher in Glasss group.

Context sensitivity

In the paper, the researchers report the results of experiments with a speech-recognition system that they developed specifically to handle food-related terminology. But that wasnt the main focus of their work; indeed, an online demo of their meal-logging system instead uses Googles free speech-recognition app.

Their research concentrated on two other problems. One is identifying words functional role: The system needs to recognize that if the user records the phrase bowl of oatmeal, nutritional information on oatmeal is pertinent, but if the phrase is oatmeal cookie, its not.

The other problem is reconciling the users phrasing with the entries in the USDA database. For instance, the USDA data on oatmeal is recorded under the heading oats; the word oatmeal shows up nowhere in the entry.

To address the first problem, the researchers used machine learning. Through the Amazon Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing platform, they recruited workers who simply described what theyd eaten at recent meals, then labeled the pertinent words in the description as names of foods, quantities, brand names, or modifiers of the food names. In bowl of oatmeal, bowl is a quantity and oatmeal is a food, but in oatmeal cookie, oatmeal is a modifier.

Once they had roughly 10,000 labeled meal descriptions, the researchers used machine-learning algorithms to find patterns in the syntactic relationships between words that would identify their functional roles.

Semantic matching

To translate between users descriptions and the labels in the USDA database, the researchers used an open-source database called Freebase, which has entries on more than 8,000 common food items, many of which include synonyms. Where synonyms were lacking, they again recruited Mechanical Turk workers to supply them.

The version of the system presented at the conference is intended chiefly to demonstrate the viability of its approach to natural-language processing; it reports calorie counts but doesnt yet total them automatically. A version that does is in the works, however, and when its complete, the Tufts researchers plan to conduct a user study to determine whether it indeed makes nutrition logging easier.

I think logging is enormously helpful for many people, says Susan Roberts, director of the Energy Metabolism Lab at Tufts USDA-sponsored Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging. It makes people more self-aware about the junk they are eating and how little they actually enjoy it, and the shock of huge portions, et cetera. But currently, it is really tedious to log your food. There are any number of programs like MyFitnessPal where you can manually enter it by hand, but even with shortcuts it is tedious and not as user friendly as it needs to be for millions of people to use it really regularly.

A spoken-language system that you can use with your phone would allow people to log food wherever they are eating it, with less work, she adds. As I see it, we need to come up with something that really isnt much work, so it isnt an extra burden in life.
Depression: Men more vulnerable to long-term effects of stress

Ann Arbor, Michigan - It's long been believed that women suffer more of the stresses of life, and research has shown that repeated stress can translate into depression.

So it might be logical to conclude that women who experience such stresses would suffer more depressive symptoms than men later in life, right? Wrong.

New research from the University of Michigan School of Public Health found that men are 50 percent more vulnerable to the effects of stress when the researchers examined how stressful events translated into depression 25 years later.

"The literature has historically argued that women are more depressed because they get more of the stress. None of that literature touches on role of gender as a vulnerability factor," said Dr. Shervin Assari of the School of Public Health Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, and the U-M Department of Psychiatry.

Assari's research focuses on how gender and race impact issues of health. In this case, he and colleagues found no association with race and depression over time. One explanation for what happens with men and depression is that they are less likely to talk about the emotions and stressors they encounter, compared with women, he said.

"In our society, as men, we learn to see this as a weakness, as suggested by gender role identity theorists," Assari said. "Hegemonic masculinity is a barrier to seek care and talk about emotions. This at least in part explains why men less frequently seek help, either professional or inside of their social networks. Our research suggests this may come with a price for men."

In addition to how men and women cope with stress, other distinctions may be due to gender differences in resilience, risk perception and general exposure, he said.

"Differential exposure to stress may help women better mobilize their psychological resources, which protect them when needed," he said.

It's also possible that men may underreport their stresses, and that those who do acknowledge them are the ones who are most affected by depression later, Assari said.

"Men should improve the way they cope and the way they mobilize their resources when they face stressful events," he said. "They should learn from women on how to talk about emotions and use resources.

"Men exposed to a lot of stress should take it seriously. They should know being a man is not all about power. It also comes with vulnerabilities."

Assari and colleague Maryam Moghani Lankarani of the Medicine and Health Promotion Institute in Iran used data from the Americans' Changing Lives Study. They focused specifically on stressful events for the period of 1984-86, and then determined participants' risk for depression in 2011 by using a standardized survey instrument called the Composite International Diagnostic Interview.
Conference responds to global efforts to care for the planet and the poor

Notre Dame, Indiana - For the Planet and the Poor, the first major conference organized by the University of Notre Dames new Keough School of Global Affairs, will open with a keynote panel, A Surprising Convergence, a Moment of Opportunity, at 6 p.m. on April 4 (Monday) in Jordan Auditorium, Mendoza College of Business.

Keynote speakers will include Scott Appleby, Marilyn Keough Dean of the Keough School of Global Affairs; Most Rev. Marcelo Sanchez Sorondo, chancellor, Pontifical Academy of Sciences and Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, the Holy See; A. Atiq Rahman, executive director, Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies; Jeffrey Sachs, director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University; and Sara Sievers, Keough School Associate Dean for Policy and Practice.

The conference will continue April 5-6 (Tuesday-Wednesday) with a series of panels in the auditorium of the Hesburgh Center for International Studies. These panels will feature more than 30 speakers from the academy and the worlds of development policy and practice, government, the Church and other faith-based organizations. Speakers will address global economic development, sustainability, global health, ecology and faith, quality education, the role of universities, and global partnerships.

According to Appleby, the conference was inspired by the convergence, in 2015, of Pope Francis encyclical Laudato Si: On Care for Our Common Home, with the adoption by the United Nations of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

This is a remarkable moment in the history of global efforts to eliminate extreme poverty and preserve the natural environment," said Appleby.

Never before have international development organizations, governments, the Church and other religious organizations been so closely aligned in a campaign to address some of the most daunting challenges facing humanity and the planet.

This conference will bring together students and faculty with leading thinkers to reflect on the events of the previous year and chart a way forward.

For the Planet and the Poor is free and open to the public. All are welcome to attend the whole conference or individual sessions.

In keeping with Notre Dames mission to place scholarship in service to the common good, the new Keough School of Global Affairs will prepare students for effective and ethical leadership in governments, international organizations and the private sector.
Inflatable Halloween Pumpkin Twice the Size of a House Rings in Spooky Season
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Theres something quite beautiful about Wolf Alice. On stage, the North London four-piece are effortlessly cool and confident, and who can blame them? They have a critically acclaimed album, legions of adoring fans and a huge future ahead of them.

After the success of 2015s My Love Is Cool, Wolf Alice are building themselves an empire. Despite being a man down, Genghars John Victor stepping in for injured bassist Theo Ellis, their infectious grunge rocked a sold out Kentish Town Forum, the first of a four night residency.

From the beginning of opener Your Loves Whore to the end of a spectacular rendition of Giant Peach, which featured both confetti and frontwoman Ellie Rowsell inviting three members of the audience to join her onstage for her and Ellis trademark jig, one thing was clear. Every song was played with a smile; Wolf Alice were kicking off the start of a four-day party they had earned, and they wanted you to party with them.
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The Night Manager might have just reached its grand finale, but already talk has turned to whether or not a second season awaits fans.

The big-budget BBC adaptation based on John le Carres 1993 spy novel starred Tom Hiddleston as Jonathan Pine, a former British soldier recruited by Olivia Colmans Angela Burr to infiltrate a cunning arms dealers inner circle.

Its dramatic conclusion aired on Sunday but despite thrilling climactic scenes suggesting everything is over, the cast are reportedly keen to rev up for another run.

Olivia Colman has won praise for her performance as pregnant spy Angela Burr (BBC)

Lord Sandy Langbourne actor Alistair Petrie told the Daily Express that everybody is up for a second series after the overwhelmingly positive audience reaction, but as of yet, nothing has been confirmed.

For these characters its a global playground, thats the exciting part and its a very international show, he said. It means if they were to decide on series two, they could travel anywhere in the world. We know theres a lot of dastardly people out there, not just where weve been set at the moment.

Where the story might go and with who is very hard to say but it is conceivable that a series two might happen and I think it would be such a shame if it didnt.

Charlotte Moore, BBC controller of television, has already hinted to The Telegraph that she is in discussions for a second run with le Carres sons production company The Ink Factory.

The Night Manager was written as a stand-alone book but the 84-year-old author is very involved with plans for series two, with Moore insisting that she wouldnt be talking with them if he didnt think it was a good idea. If a second series goes ahead with new material, it will be the first time le Carre has given producers the go-ahead to go beyond his original work.



Some critics and fans, however, have been protesting that making a second series would be a silly, rushed mistake.

Arguably, too many quality shows are being brought back for their ratings potentials, when they would be better off left alone as one-offs: think Broadchurch, The Missing, Doctor Foster and Happy Valley which will likely get a third series somewhere down the line.

Whether the BBC can do a second run of their latest success justice remains to be seen.
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The military is relaxing some of its regulations on appearance in order to attract long-haired computer experts to its cyber warfare division.

As reported by The Telegraph, the Ministry of Defence is giving special waivers to recruits specialising in computers, to exempt them from certain parts of The Queen's Regulations, which demand that the hair of male soldiers needs to be "well cut and trimmed."

The idea is that the country's top digital minds typically have long hair or unkempt beards, and if the UK wants to build up a strong cyber defence force, it may have to broaden its strict rules.

Recruits in the 'cyber reserve' are also reportedly being exempted from fitness tests, and have been told they will not be deployed abroad or given weapons, a Telegraph story claimed.

Gadget and tech news: In pictures Show all 25 1 /25 Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gun-toting humanoid robot sent into space Russia has launched a humanoid robot into space on a rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS). The robot Fedor will spend 10 days aboard the ISS practising skills such as using tools to fix issues onboard. Russia's deputy prime minister Dmitry Rogozin has previously shared videos of Fedor handling and shooting guns at a firing range with deadly accuracy. Dmitry Rogozin/Twitter Gadget and tech news: In pictures Google turns 21 Google celebrates its 21st birthday on September 27. The The search engine was founded in September 1998 by two PhD students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, in their dormitories at Californias Stanford University. Page and Brin chose the name google as it recalled the mathematic term 'googol', meaning 10 raised to the power of 100 Google Gadget and tech news: In pictures Hexa drone lifts off Chief engineer of LIFT aircraft Balazs Kerulo demonstrates the company's "Hexa" personal drone craft in Lago Vista, Texas on June 3 2019 Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures Project Scarlett to succeed Xbox One Microsoft announced Project Scarlett, the successor to the Xbox One, at E3 2019. The company said that the new console will be 4 times as powerful as the Xbox One and is slated for a release date of Christmas 2020 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures First new iPod in four years Apple has announced the new iPod Touch, the first new iPod in four years. The device will have the option of adding more storage, up to 256GB Apple Gadget and tech news: In pictures Folding phone may flop Samsung will cancel orders of its Galaxy Fold phone at the end of May if the phone is not then ready for sale. The $2000 folding phone has been found to break easily with review copies being recalled after backlash PA Gadget and tech news: In pictures Charging mat non-starter Apple has cancelled its AirPower wireless charging mat, which was slated as a way to charge numerous apple products at once AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures "Super league" India shoots down satellite India has claimed status as part of a "super league" of nations after shooting down a live satellite in a test of new missile technology EPA Gadget and tech news: In pictures 5G incoming 5G wireless internet is expected to launch in 2019, with the potential to reach speeds of 50mb/s Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Uber halts driverless testing after death Uber has halted testing of driverless vehicles after a woman was killed by one of their cars in Tempe, Arizona. March 19 2018 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures The giant human-like robot bears a striking resemblance to the military robots starring in the movie 'Avatar' and is claimed as a world first by its creators from a South Korean robotic company Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi and Kaptain Rock playing one string light saber guitar perform jam session Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway resembling the giant panda is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway, resembling a giant panda, is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A concept car by Trumpchi from GAC Group is shown at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A Mirai fuel cell vehicle by Toyota is displayed at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A visitor tries a Nissan VR experience at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A man looks at an exhibit entitled 'Mimus' a giant industrial robot which has been reprogrammed to interact with humans during a photocall at the new Design Museum in South Kensington, London Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A new Israeli Da-Vinci unmanned aerial vehicle manufactured by Elbit Systems is displayed during the 4th International conference on Home Land Security and Cyber in the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv Getty

The best computer experts don't exactly find it difficult to get prestigious and well-paid jobs in the private sector, so the changing of the strict regulations has been deemed necessary if the UK is to be defended from foreign cyber-attacks.

As century-old regulations bump up against the realities of the modern world, the military finds itself in a similar situation to the FBI. In 2014, the bureau's director James Comey said he was struggling to recruit cybersecurity experts, due to the conflict between their penchant for smoking cannabis and the FBI's strict drug testing policies.

As the Wall Street Journal reported in 2014, Comey said: "I have to hire a great work force to compete with those cyber criminals, and some of those kids want to smoke weed on the way to the interview."

Rumours that the FBI was going to formally relax its position on drugs followed, but Comey later took back his remarks, saying: "I am absolutely dead set against using marijuana."
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Almost four years after it began as a Kickstarter campaign, the Oculus Rift virtual reality (VR) headset has finally started being delivered to customers.

A lot has been made of the Rift's uses in gaming, and that's what Oculus is aiming for - users currently need a high-end gaming PC to run it properly, and it's shipping with an Xbox One console controller and a few bundled games.

However, the Rift and competing VR headsets like the HTC Vive have huge applications elsewhere and the potential to revolutionise other industries, in the same way they've changed gaming.

Architecture

Architects spend a lot of time showing off models, drawings and 3D simulations to their clients. However, there's only so much you can show with a 2D illustration, or a computer-generated image on a screen.

A woman takes a tour through an architectural plan using IrisVR and the Oculus Rift (IrisVR/Vimeo) (IrisVR)

Now, devices like the Rift are being used to change how they work - one New York-based company, IrisVR, uses its software to create VR-compatible 3D models which allow clients to feel like they're actually in a building, walking through the rooms and really getting a sense of the scale and feel of a space.

IrisVR also works with engineers and designers, letting them see their creations up close without needing to go through the lengthy and expensive prototyping process.

Art

VR, especially when used with motion-detecting controllers, can let artists to enter the world of their paintings and drawings.

Google's Tilt Brush, compatible with the upcoming HTC Vive headset, does just this - users enter an expansive blank space, and use the Vive's controller to paint and draw in the space around them. They can move around their 3D 'canvas' simply by walking, while creating fully-realised paintings, dioramas and abstract creations.



Former Disney animator Glen Keane illustrated this perfectly in a video, stepping inside Tilt Brush to create 3D renditions of Ariel from The Little Mermaid and the Beast from Beauty and The Beast.

There aren't any VR art galleries filled with 3D paintings yet, but don't be surprised if we see it in the future.

Gadget and tech news: In pictures Show all 25 1 /25 Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gadget and tech news: In pictures Gun-toting humanoid robot sent into space Russia has launched a humanoid robot into space on a rocket bound for the International Space Station (ISS). The robot Fedor will spend 10 days aboard the ISS practising skills such as using tools to fix issues onboard. Russia's deputy prime minister Dmitry Rogozin has previously shared videos of Fedor handling and shooting guns at a firing range with deadly accuracy. Dmitry Rogozin/Twitter Gadget and tech news: In pictures Google turns 21 Google celebrates its 21st birthday on September 27. The The search engine was founded in September 1998 by two PhD students, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, in their dormitories at Californias Stanford University. Page and Brin chose the name google as it recalled the mathematic term 'googol', meaning 10 raised to the power of 100 Google Gadget and tech news: In pictures Hexa drone lifts off Chief engineer of LIFT aircraft Balazs Kerulo demonstrates the company's "Hexa" personal drone craft in Lago Vista, Texas on June 3 2019 Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures Project Scarlett to succeed Xbox One Microsoft announced Project Scarlett, the successor to the Xbox One, at E3 2019. The company said that the new console will be 4 times as powerful as the Xbox One and is slated for a release date of Christmas 2020 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures First new iPod in four years Apple has announced the new iPod Touch, the first new iPod in four years. The device will have the option of adding more storage, up to 256GB Apple Gadget and tech news: In pictures Folding phone may flop Samsung will cancel orders of its Galaxy Fold phone at the end of May if the phone is not then ready for sale. The $2000 folding phone has been found to break easily with review copies being recalled after backlash PA Gadget and tech news: In pictures Charging mat non-starter Apple has cancelled its AirPower wireless charging mat, which was slated as a way to charge numerous apple products at once AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures "Super league" India shoots down satellite India has claimed status as part of a "super league" of nations after shooting down a live satellite in a test of new missile technology EPA Gadget and tech news: In pictures 5G incoming 5G wireless internet is expected to launch in 2019, with the potential to reach speeds of 50mb/s Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Uber halts driverless testing after death Uber has halted testing of driverless vehicles after a woman was killed by one of their cars in Tempe, Arizona. March 19 2018 Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A humanoid robot gestures during a demo at a stall in the Indian Machine Tools Expo, IMTEX/Tooltech 2017 held in Bangalore Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures The giant human-like robot bears a striking resemblance to the military robots starring in the movie 'Avatar' and is claimed as a world first by its creators from a South Korean robotic company Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Engineers test a four-metre-tall humanoid manned robot dubbed Method-2 in a lab of the Hankook Mirae Technology in Gunpo, south of Seoul, South Korea Jung Yeon-Je/AFP/Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures Waseda University's saxophonist robot WAS-5, developed by professor Atsuo Takanishi and Kaptain Rock playing one string light saber guitar perform jam session Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway resembling the giant panda is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A test line of a new energy suspension railway, resembling a giant panda, is seen in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A concept car by Trumpchi from GAC Group is shown at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Rex Gadget and tech news: In pictures A Mirai fuel cell vehicle by Toyota is displayed at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A visitor tries a Nissan VR experience at the International Automobile Exhibition in Guangzhou, China Reuters Gadget and tech news: In pictures A man looks at an exhibit entitled 'Mimus' a giant industrial robot which has been reprogrammed to interact with humans during a photocall at the new Design Museum in South Kensington, London Getty Gadget and tech news: In pictures A new Israeli Da-Vinci unmanned aerial vehicle manufactured by Elbit Systems is displayed during the 4th International conference on Home Land Security and Cyber in the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv Getty

Medicine

Virtual reality's amazing applications in medicine were demonstrated in January, when doctors in Florida used the Google Cardboard headset to save the life of a baby.

Four-month-old Teegan Lexcen needed heart surgery, but doctors didn't have the confidence to go ahead since the standard 2D images of her body couldn't provide enough detail. However, by converting her MRI scans into a 3D model and viewing it through Google Cardboard, they managed to develop a complex strategy for the operation and eventually rebuilt part of her heart in a seven-hour procedure, saving her life.

Surgery is all about planning, and being able to see a patient's body as if they were lying on the table in front of them would be a huge help to surgeons. Devices like the Rift can also be used in doctor training, remote surgery and all kinds of internal imaging.

Therapy

The practice of using virtual reality to treat mental health problems already has its own acronym - virtual reality therapy, or VRT.

Speaking to The Verge in 2013, Dr Albert Rizzo from the University of Southern California's Institute for Creative Technologies said: "I have no question that Oculus will revolutionise virtual reality for clinical purposes. This system is going to be about so much more than playing games."

One of the virtual scenarios which can be simulated to help soldiers deal with PTSD (Pic: USC Institute for Creative Technologies) (USC Institute for Creative Technologies)

Rizzo has used VR to treat veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by putting them through 'exposure therapy'. He uses the Rift to virtually place soldiers at the scene of a traumatic battlefield event in a controlled situation, helping them process their anxious feelings and overcome the worst of the disorder.

VR headsets have also been used to help amputees suffering from phantom pain. After using the headsets to 'regain' their missing limbs, some patients have reported reductions in their sometimes debilitating pains.

Tourism

If you've ever wanted to visit a foreign country but can't afford the plane tickets, VR may be the answer.

Looking at the pyramids through a VR headset is never going match up to the real thing, but it can come pretty close. There's a number of programs and applications out there which transport users to museums, historical sights and famous landscapes around the world, and they generally do a pretty good job.

The tourism industry has so far embraced VR, since they can now demonstrate a holiday to users at home and convince them into booking the real thing. However, as time goes on and VR gets more realistic, will some holidays become obsolete? Only time will tell.
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Health officials no longer recommend using acupuncture to manage lower back pain, having described the technique as "no better than a sham treatment."

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has concluded that there is insufficient evidence to prove that acupuncture is effective, following a review into guidance on dealing with lower back pain.

The new recommendations state that massage and manipulation by physiotherapists should only be used alongside physical activity, and stress that sufferers should exercise.

Experts added that anti-inflammatories which do not contain steroids, such ibuprofen or aspirin, should be used to manage lower back pain. Weak opioids, including codeine, are now only recommended for use by those with acute pain.

The draft recommendations, which update guidance from 2009, have been published for consultation.

Professor Mark Baker, clinical practice director for Nice, said: Regrettably there is a lack of convincing evidence of effectiveness for some widely-used treatments. For example, acupuncture is no longer recommended for managing low back pain with or without sciatica. This is because there is not enough evidence to show that it is more effective than sham treatment.

Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests  but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty

"Our aim with this draft guideline is to give clarity and set out the most clinical and cost effective ways to treat low back pain and sciatica based on the best available evidence. We now want to hear from all those who provide care for people with these conditions in the NHS, as well as from people with the conditions and their carers, to ensure all relevant views are considered for the final guideline.

Edzard Ernst, emeritus professor of complementary medicine at the Peninsula School of Medicine, University of Exeter, praised the new advice, and told The Guardian that previous guidelines were seriously out of touch with the reliable evidence.

Dr Mike Cummings, medical director of the British Medical Acupuncture Society said he was disappointed by the revised guidelines and said that the technique should be used as much as possible.
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A blood test which can identify whether a person has suffered a concussion could prevent children from being exposed to medical scans which emit radiation, according to a new study.

The simple procedure pinpoints a biomarker which the brain releases following an injury.

Scientists at Orlando Health in the US state of Florida found that the glial fibrillary acidic protein biomarker can remain in the patients bloodstream for up to a week after the brain is impacted.

By detecting the biomarker in the blood, scientists were also able to decide whether a patient needed life-saving brain surgery.

"This could ultimately change the way we diagnose concussions, not only in children, but in anyone who sustains a head injury, said Dr Linda Papa, an emergency medicine physician and lead author of the study.

Researchers produced the study published in the Jama Neurology by analysing nearly 600 patients over three years.

They found that the blood test could detect mild to moderate traumatic brain lesions in adults with up to 97 per cent accuracy.

Symptoms of concussion and other mild to moderate brain injuries include memory loss, blurred vision, and confusion, according to the NHS. But these sometimes take days to materialise, and can be subtle.

Health news in pictures Show all 40 1 /40 Health news in pictures Health news in pictures Coronavirus outbreak The coronavirus Covid-19 has hit the UK leading to the deaths of two people so far and prompting warnings from the Department of Health AFP via Getty Health news in pictures Thousands of emergency patients told to take taxi to hospital Thousands of 999 patients in England are being told to get a taxi to hospital, figures have showed. The number of patients outside London who were refused an ambulance rose by 83 per cent in the past year as demand for services grows Getty Health news in pictures Vape related deaths spike A vaping-related lung disease has claimed the lives of 11 people in the US in recent weeks. The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has more than 100 officials investigating the cause of the mystery illness, and has warned citizens against smoking e-cigarette products until more is known, particularly if modified or bought off the street Getty Health news in pictures Baldness cure looks to be a step closer Researchers in the US claim to have overcome one of the major hurdles to cultivating human follicles from stem cells. The new system allows cells to grow in a structured tuft and emerge from the skin Sanford Burnham Preybs Health news in pictures Two hours a week spent in nature can improve health A study in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that a dose of nature of just two hours a week is associated with better health and psychological wellbeing Shutterstock Health news in pictures Air pollution linked to fertility issues in women Exposure to air from traffic-clogged streets could leave women with fewer years to have children, a study has found. Italian researchers found women living in the most polluted areas were three times more likely to show signs they were running low on eggs than those who lived in cleaner surroundings, potentially triggering an earlier menopause Getty/iStock Health news in pictures Junk food ads could be banned before watershed Junk food adverts on TV and online could be banned before 9pm as part of Government plans to fight the "epidemic" of childhood obesity. Plans for the new watershed have been put out for public consultation in a bid to combat the growing crisis, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said PA Health news in pictures Breeding with neanderthals helped humans fight diseases On migrating from Africa around 70,000 years ago, humans bumped into the neanderthals of Eurasia. While humans were weak to the diseases of the new lands, breeding with the resident neanderthals made for a better equipped immune system PA Health news in pictures Cancer breath test to be trialled in Britain The breath biopsy device is designed to detect cancer hallmarks in molecules exhaled by patients Getty Health news in pictures Average 10 year old has consumed the recommended amount of sugar for an adult By their 10th birthdy, children have on average already eaten more sugar than the recommended amount for an 18 year old. The average 10 year old consumes the equivalent to 13 sugar cubes a day, 8 more than is recommended PA Health news in pictures Child health experts advise switching off screens an hour before bed While there is not enough evidence of harm to recommend UK-wide limits on screen use, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health have advised that children should avoid screens for an hour before bed time to avoid disrupting their sleep Getty Health news in pictures Daily aspirin is unnecessary for older people in good health, study finds A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has found that many elderly people are taking daily aspirin to little or no avail Getty Health news in pictures Vaping could lead to cancer, US study finds A study by the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Centre has found that the carcinogenic chemicals formaldehyde, acrolein, and methylglyoxal are present in the saliva of E-cigarette users Reuters Health news in pictures More children are obese and diabetic There has been a 41% increase in children with type 2 diabetes since 2014, the National Paediatric Diabetes Audit has found. Obesity is a leading cause Reuters Health news in pictures Most child antidepressants are ineffective and can lead to suicidal thoughts The majority of antidepressants are ineffective and may be unsafe, for children and teenager with major depression, experts have warned. In what is the most comprehensive comparison of 14 commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs to date, researchers found that only one brand was more effective at relieving symptoms of depression than a placebo. Another popular drug, venlafaxine, was shown increase the risk users engaging in suicidal thoughts and attempts at suicide Getty Health news in pictures Gay, lesbian and bisexual adults at higher risk of heart disease, study claims Researchers at the Baptist Health South Florida Clinic in Miami focused on seven areas of controllable heart health and found these minority groups were particularly likely to be smokers and to have poorly controlled blood sugar iStock Health news in pictures Breakfast cereals targeted at children contain 'steadily high' sugar levels since 1992 despite producer claims A major pressure group has issued a fresh warning about perilously high amounts of sugar in breakfast cereals, specifically those designed for children, and has said that levels have barely been cut at all in the last two and a half decades Getty Health news in pictures Potholes are making us fat, NHS watchdog warns New guidance by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the body which determines what treatment the NHS should fund, said lax road repairs and car-dominated streets were contributing to the obesity epidemic by preventing members of the public from keeping active PA Health news in pictures New menopause drugs offer women relief from 'debilitating' hot flushes A new class of treatments for women going through the menopause is able to reduce numbers of debilitating hot flushes by as much as three quarters in a matter of days, a trial has found. The drug used in the trial belongs to a group known as NKB antagonists (blockers), which were developed as a treatment for schizophrenia but have been sitting on a shelf unused, according to Professor Waljit Dhillo, a professor of endocrinology and metabolism REX Health news in pictures Doctors should prescribe more antidepressants for people with mental health problems, study finds Research from Oxford University found that more than one million extra people suffering from mental health problems would benefit from being prescribed drugs and criticised ideological reasons doctors use to avoid doing so. Getty Health news in pictures Student dies of flu after NHS advice to stay at home and avoid A&E The family of a teenager who died from flu has urged people not to delay going to A&E if they are worried about their symptoms. Melissa Whiteley, an 18-year-old engineering student from Hanford in Stoke-on-Trent, fell ill at Christmas and died in hospital a month later. Just Giving Health news in pictures Government to review thousands of harmful vaginal mesh implants The Government has pledged to review tens of thousands of cases where women have been given harmful vaginal mesh implants. Getty Health news in pictures Jeremy Hunt announces 'zero suicides ambition' for the NHS The NHS will be asked to go further to prevent the deaths of patients in its care as part of a zero suicide ambition being launched today Getty Health news in pictures Human trials start with cancer treatment that primes immune system to kill off tumours Human trials have begun with a new cancer therapy that can prime the immune system to eradicate tumours. The treatment, that works similarly to a vaccine, is a combination of two existing drugs, of which tiny amounts are injected into the solid bulk of a tumour. Nephron Health news in pictures Babies' health suffers from being born near fracking sites, finds major study Mothers living within a kilometre of a fracking site were 25 per cent more likely to have a child born at low birth weight, which increase their chances of asthma, ADHD and other issues Getty Health news in pictures NHS reviewing thousands of cervical cancer smear tests after women wrongly given all-clear Thousands of cervical cancer screening results are under review after failings at a laboratory meant some women were incorrectly given the all-clear. A number of women have already been told to contact their doctors following the identification of procedural issues in the service provided by Pathology First Laboratory. Rex Health news in pictures Potential key to halting breast cancer's spread discovered by scientists Most breast cancer patients do not die from their initial tumour, but from secondary malignant growths (metastases), where cancer cells are able to enter the blood and survive to invade new sites. Asparagine, a molecule named after asparagus where it was first identified in high quantities, has now been shown to be an essential ingredient for tumour cells to gain these migratory properties. Getty Health news in pictures NHS nursing vacancies at record high with more than 34,000 roles advertised A record number of nursing and midwifery positions are currently being advertised by the NHS, with more than 34,000 positions currently vacant, according to the latest data. Demand for nurses was 19 per cent higher between July and September 2017 than the same period two years ago. REX Health news in pictures Cannabis extract could provide new class of treatment for psychosis CBD has a broadly opposite effect to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active component in cannabis and the substance that causes paranoia and anxiety. Getty Health news in pictures Over 75,000 sign petition calling for Richard Branson's Virgin Care to hand settlement money back to NHS Mr Bransons company sued the NHS last year after it lost out on an 82m contract to provide childrens health services across Surrey, citing concerns over serious flaws in the way the contract was awarded PA Health news in pictures More than 700 fewer nurses training in England in first year after NHS bursary scrapped The numbers of people accepted to study nursing in England fell 3 per cent in 2017, while the numbers accepted in Wales and Scotland, where the bursaries were kept, increased 8.4 per cent and 8 per cent respectively Getty Health news in pictures Landmark study links Tory austerity to 120,000 deaths The paper found that there were 45,000 more deaths in the first four years of Tory-led efficiencies than would have been expected if funding had stayed at pre-election levels. On this trajectory that could rise to nearly 200,000 excess deaths by the end of 2020, even with the extra funding that has been earmarked for public sector services this year. Reuters Health news in pictures Long commutes carry health risks Hours of commuting may be mind-numbingly dull, but new research shows that it might also be having an adverse effect on both your health and performance at work. Longer commutes also appear to have a significant impact on mental wellbeing, with those commuting longer 33 per cent more likely to suffer from depression Shutterstock Health news in pictures You cannot be fit and fat It is not possible to be overweight and healthy, a major new study has concluded. The study of 3.5 million Britons found that even metabolically healthy obese people are still at a higher risk of heart disease or a stroke than those with a normal weight range Getty Health news in pictures Sleep deprivation When you feel particularly exhausted, it can definitely feel like you are also lacking in brain capacity. Now, a new study has suggested this could be because chronic sleep deprivation can actually cause the brain to eat itself Shutterstock Health news in pictures Exercise classes offering 45 minute naps launch David Lloyd Gyms have launched a new health and fitness class which is essentially a bunch of people taking a nap for 45 minutes. The fitness group was spurred to launch the napercise class after research revealed 86 per cent of parents said they were fatigued. The class is therefore predominantly aimed at parents but you actually do not have to have children to take part Getty Health news in pictures 'Fundamental right to health' to be axed after Brexit, lawyers warn Tobacco and alcohol companies could win more easily in court cases such as the recent battle over plain cigarette packaging if the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is abandoned, a barrister and public health professor have said Getty Health news in pictures 'Thousands dying' due to fear over non-existent statin side-effects A major new study into the side effects of the cholesterol-lowering medicine suggests common symptoms such as muscle pain and weakness are not caused by the drugs themselves Getty Health news in pictures Babies born to fathers aged under 25 have higher risk of autism New research has found that babies born to fathers under the age of 25 or over 51 are at higher risk of developing autism and other social disorders. The study, conducted by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, found that these children are actually more advanced than their peers as infants, but then fall behind by the time they hit their teenage years Getty Health news in pictures Cycling to work could halve risk of cancer and heart disease Commuters who swap their car or bus pass for a bike could cut their risk of developing heart disease and cancer by almost half, new research suggests  but campaigners have warned there is still an urgent need to improve road conditions for cyclists. Cycling to work is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer by 45 per cent and cardiovascular disease by 46 per cent, according to a study of a quarter of a million people. Walking to work also brought health benefits, the University of Glasgow researchers found, but not to the same degree as cycling. Getty

Dr Papa said her teams findings could provide doctors with an important tool for simply and accurately diagnosing patients with brain injuries.

"If patients are not diagnosed properly and treated appropriately, it could lead to long-term problems. This test could take the guesswork out of making a diagnosis by allowing doctors to simply look for a specific biomarker in the blood, she said.

While doctors seek to minimise the use of computerised tomography (CT) scans in all patients, children are particularly sensitive to the radiation and the potential side effects.

Fortunately, this simple blood test appears to give us nearly the same information as a CT scan, said Dr Papa.

"We have so many diagnostic blood tests for different parts of the body, like the heart, liver and kidneys, but there's never been a reliable blood test to identify trauma in the brain. We think this test could change that, she said.

Additional reporting by PA
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Only a tiny proportion of school leaders support the Governments plan to force all schools to become academies, a new survey suggests.

Chancellor George Osbornes Budget earlier this month confirmed that every school in England would be on its way to becoming an academy by 2020  whether local parents and teachers supported the move or not.

The plans would end the century-old role local councils have played in running education in their areas, including in primary schools.

Recommended Read more Academies do not perform significantly better than local authority

Ninety-three per cent of headteachers, their deputies and assistants polled by the National Union of Teachers (NUT) agreed the Governments policy to turn all schools in the academies was inappropriate.

Just three per cent of those polled said the policy was appropriate, while four per cent said they did not know.

As well as among teachers, there is also strong public opposition to academies.

Polling by ICM conducted in 2014 found that 57 per cent of people oppose academy schools in general  compared with just 32 per cent who support them.

A poll of parents conducted in September 2015 by the PTA UK found that 97 per cent would like to be asked before a school is turned into an academy.

A petition calling for a referendum on the policy  which was not included in the Conservative manifesto  has reached 100,000 signatures and will be considered for debate in Parliament.

Christine Blower, NUT general secretary, said: These findings are bleak and reveal bitter distrust from school leaders of the direction of travel for education policy in England.

Christine Blower, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers (AFP/Getty)

There are logical reasons why half of these school leaders say that they cannot go on and they are thinking of leaving. The Government has the wrong priorities. The strategy of cuts, teacher shortages and far-reaching, chaotic curriculum and assessment changes simply isnt working.

The academy programme was begun under New Labour but substantially expanded under the Coalition Government.

Proponents of the change say it gives schools more independence from local authorities to improve, while critics say the schools tend to be run from Whitehall rather than locally and community democratic oversight.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan is leading on the forced academisation policy (Getty)

The schools have more powers over their own budgets, curriculum, the hiring of staff, term times and the length of school day.

There is mixed evidence on whether academy status improves education standards or not.

A Department for Education spokesman said: The fact that almost 70 per cent of all open academies have voluntarily become one suggests the concerns raised by those polled by the NUT are not shared more widely across the country.

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On funding, we are protecting the schools budget in real terms and making funding fairer by introducing a new national funding formula so that areas with highest need attract the most funding.

We also know unnecessary workload is one of the biggest frustrations for teachers, and have done more than ever to tackle this by launching the reports of the three review groups to address the key concerns raised through the workload challenge.

Rather than simply opposing our reforms, which have already seen 1.4 million more children in good or outstanding schools than in 2010, the NUT would do teachers and pupils a much greater service by engaging constructively with them.
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Children are suffering under an excessive risk-averse culture in schools that is damaging their ability to cope in the real world, the head of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has warned.

Coping with risk and danger is a key part of a childs education and should be put at the heart of the school curriculum, according to Dame Judith Hackitt, of the HSE. Otherwise, she said, they will become a liability in any workplace.

Dame Judith, who has chaired the organisation for more than eight years, criticised the increasingly excessive worries over health and safety in schools, which she described as nonsensical.

We had one school who told kids they could not wear frilly socks for health and safety reasons  fearing they would trip over, she said in a speech to the Royal Academy of Engineering. People [now] expect to be looked after. We need to look out for ourselves and take responsibility for risk, not leave it to others.

Traditional games such as tig and British Bulldog are banned in more than one in four schools, according to a survey by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers. Some pupils are not allowed to throw snowballs.

Dame Judith argued that such bans were undermining her organisations efforts to improve safety in dangerous industries, such as construction and farming. She called on schools to put an end to top-down bureaucratic behaviour, and said children should be encouraged to climb trees and play games that had a risk of injury.

Overprotective parents and risk-averse teachers who do not enable children to learn to handle risk will lead to young adults who are poorly equipped to deal with the realities of the world... unable to discern real risk from trivia, not knowing who they can trust or believe, said Dame Judith. They will be a liability in any workplace if they do not have those basic skills, to exercise judgement.

Although the HSE has been criticised in the past for being too zealous over health and safety, a spokeswoman for the group said it absolutely supports Dame Judiths position.
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Fears of being branded an extremist are preventing pupils from engaging in debate in the classroom, teachers have warned.

Delegates at the National Union of Teachers' annual conference voted to urge the Government to withdraw its "Prevent" strategy - which puts a duty on teachers to report any signs that pupils may have been "radicalised".

"We are worried that children are increasingly unwilling to talk about their view of the world because they are frightened and their parents are frightened that their name will be put on a list," said Kevin Courtney, deputy general secretary of the NUT. "The point is, though, that the best contribution teachers can make in tackling these issues is to encourage discussion in the classroom."

He told of one 17-year-old student who was interrogated by te police after being reported for carrying free Palestine leaflets. "Supporting a free Palestine in not an extreme position," he added. "It is in no way Jihadist."

Other cases included a four-year-old child who was reported when he wrote "cookabomber" when he meant "cucumber" and a 10-year-old who wrote about living in a "terrorist" house when he meant "terraced" and was questioned by police.

In another incident a teacher at an East London girls' school with a large Muslim intake was surprised - in the week of the Charlie Hebden shootings in Paris - that no pupil raised it it in their weekly current affairs lesson. "The girls had been told by their parents not to discuss these things," said Mr Courtney.

In all, about 4,000 young people had been reported in the last 18 months and - in 90 per cent of cases - no further action had been taken, "Nicky Morgan (the Education Secretary) says she wants free discussion but the strategy is not providing it," he added. "We have to see how we can remove these pressures "on teachers) to over report."

Alex Kenny, for the union's executive moving the motion, said: "The NUT believes 100 per cent that teachers in schools have a duty and obligation to look out for those who might be vulnerable."

However, he added that the Government's "prevent" strategy was "flawed" because of over-reaction by some teachers. "Teachers are finding it more difficult to seize opportunities to discuss important issues that may help students make sense of the world," he said.

He cited David Andersom, the independent reviewer of terrorism legislation for the Government, who had said: "If the wrong decisions are taken, the new law (the prevent strategy) risks provoking a backlash in affected communities, alienating those whose integration into British society is already fragile and playing into the hands of those wo, by peddling a grievance agenda, seek to drive people further towards extremism and terrorism."

Gary Kaye, from North Yorkshire, said the strategy should be withdrawn from schools "to stop education professionals being the secret service of the public sector".

A spokesman for the Department for Education said: "We make no apology for protecting children and young people from the risks of extremism and radicalisation." The strategy, the Government added, provided teachers with the "resilience" to challenge terrorist arguments.

The Counter-Terrorism and Security Act was introduced last year and placed a legal duty on schools to "prevent people from being drawn into terrorism".

It followed fears that young people were being radicalised in schools and colleges after some had disappeared to Syria or joined extremist groups.

The Government says that the prevent strategy does not inhibit open debate and discussion but provides teachers with the "resilience" to challenge extremist arguments.
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Teachers are threatening to boycott officially prescribed tests for primary pupils  warning that they have turned classrooms into little more than exam factories.

Delegates at the National Union of Teachers (NUT) annual conference in Brighton voted overwhelmingly in favour of calling on the Education Secretary, Nicky Morgan, to cancel all of this years tests.

They are particularly incensed because they say changes to the exams  including new spelling, grammar and punctuation tests for seven- and 11-year-olds  have been introduced too hastily, giving inadequate time to prepare pupils.

The tests have also been made harder and there is concern that too many children as young as seven will believe themselves to have been written off as failures .

The tests are imposed in England. Wales has abolished its requirement to hold primary school tests, while Scotland never introduced them.

 Education Secretary Nicky Morgan says education is better than five years ago

If Ms Morgan refuses to cancel the tests, the union will consider moving to a ballot on boycotting the exams next year. Children are due to sit the tests for seven- and 11-year-olds in early May. A new baseline test  taken by four-year-olds when they start school  will be introduced in September. There is also a phonics test taken by six-year-olds at the end of the summer term.

One delegate, Samantha Lane, told the conference: I just want to beg you to boycott the tests. I dont want my children to go through this.

Proposing the motion, Amanda Martin, of the unions executive, said the tests brand children as cattle and turn them off learning for life.

She added: Growing numbers of pupils who are four, seven and 11 are made to feel failures as a result of these tests.

Charles Thomas, from Birmingham, added: They [children] want to learn whats going on out there in the world  they dont want to be tested all the time. Children want to learn to be real people, not robots.

Christine Blower, the general secretary of the NUT, said: Teachers are angry and dismayed at the primary tests, which they believe are age-inappropriate. Far from improving outcomes for 11-year-olds, this endless high-stakes testing could easily switch children off from learning, increase their anxiety levels and harm their self-confidence  a vital ingredient for successful learning.

A spokesman for the Department for Education said parents rightly expected their children to be taught to be literate and numerate by the time they left primary school.

We are always willing to listen to the views of teaching unions and are in regular discussion with them, working with them to ensure that this transition year goes smoothly, he added. It is disappointing to see that the NUT are taking this approach, which would disrupt childrens education, rather than working with us constructively.

The motion warned ministers: This system reduces the breadth and depth of the curriculum while making demands on children that are inappropriate to their age, interests and needs.
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Thousands of people suffering from mental health conditions will continue to miss out on timely help, a former minister has said, warning that promised reforms to NHS mental healthcare would be impossible without extra spending.

Norman Lamb, who served as the minister responsible for mental health in the Coalition government, said that vital new waiting-times targets for a range of mental health conditions including bipolar disorder and OCD "wont happen" because the plans were not funded.

He also hit out at an NHS England decision to water down financial incentives for local health authorities to improve mental health services, and criticised scandalously low levels of funding for research into mental health conditions.

Mr Lamb, the Liberal Democrats' health spokesperson and one of the countrys leading campaigners for improved mental health services, said that all signs pointed to a continuing disadvantage for those who suffer from mental illness with no prospect of it ever changing".

The Government has pledged to deliver parity of esteem for mental health patients  ensuring that physical health is not unfairly prioritised in terms of funding and support available. To achieve this in government, Mr Lamb pushed for waiting-times standards  similar to those for cancer treatment, emergency care, and other areas of physical health  to be introduced for mental health.

The ex-minister's view Waiting times Mr Lamb said that ambitious plans to introduce maximum waiting times for treatment across the full range of common mental health conditions was not funded and would not happen. Financial incentives He also criticised an NHS England decision to drop national targets to improve mental health services from the Quality Premium incentive scheme, in which local health authorities are rewarded financially for improving specific services. He said the move exposed the appalling gulf between rhetoric and practice when it comes to mental health in the NHS. Local areas can still get incentives for improving mental health services, but only if they choose to make it a local priority. Research funding Mr Lamb has written to the Jeremy Hunt to raise concerns that the public agency the Medical Research Council spent just 3 per cent of its total research budget on mental health in 2014-15. Mr Lamb called the figure scandalously low, and pointed out that mental health conditions represent 23 per cent of the burden of disease in the UK.

New waiting-times targets were introduced for depression and anxiety disorders, a new standard for early intervention in psychosis treatment will come in next month, and maximum waiting times for children and young people with eating disorders will be introduced next year.

But Mr Lamb said he had been told by senior NHS officials that ambitious plans, set out in February by an independent taskforce and backed by the Government, to introduce waiting times for treatments across a far wider range of conditions had no funding assigned to them.

The Government pledged to spend 1bn extra a year on mental health by 2020  part of the 8bn pledged to the NHS as a whole. However, Mr Lamb said he had been told this figure did not cover the implementation of the new waiting times standards.

I asked: is this funded? The answer was no, he said. So essentially it wont happen.

The rhetoric is good, and I think when [Health Secretary] Jeremy Hunt says he wants to continue to improve mental healthcare, he means it, he said. But you cant do it without the money. When the whole of the NHS is under huge financial pressure, it is mental health that misses out.

Another former Lib Dem minister, David Laws, claimed earlier this month that, before the last election, Downing Street pressured NHS chief executive Simon Stevens to downgrade his estimate of how much additional funding the NHS would need up to 2020, from 16bn to 8bn. NHS England denied the claims that Mr Stevens was told David Cameron and George Osborne would not accept the higher figure.

A NHS England spokesperson said that the waiting-times standards for mental healthcare to be introduced in April would be the first in the history of the NHS, but declined to comment on funding for future targets.
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A celebrated Indian spiritual leader has revealed that he reached out to Isis in an effort to try and bring an end to its campaign of violence and killing.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who heads the Art of Living (AOL) Foundation, said he believed that dialogue alone with the Islamists would not succeed while the fighters believed no-one else has a right to exist. He said he hoped their attitude would change if they were brought to justice.

In an interview with The Independent ahead of a recent record-breaking gathering of people outside of Delhi, the 59-year-old leader said his aim was to unite all cultures, religions and ideologies.

The spiritual leader was joined on stage by India's prime minister Narendra Modi (AP)

Asked how his peace-promoting philosophy could work to tackle such groups as Isis, he said: Isis is very peculiar. I stretched my hand out to to have a dialogue, but when these people think no-one else has a right to exist, talks alone will not work. But once they are in prison maybe then we will be able to change their minds.

He added: "I told them I want to have a dialogue. But they sent me a picture with a beheaded body. And they said this is the state in which we can have a dialogue, if you are ready you can come. If they said that thing then there is no question, they are not open to dialogue. But if someone puts them in jail, then we will take care of them! Then we will have the dialogue."

The AOL, which operates in more than 150 countries, uses meditation and yoga to reduce stress and promote peaceful thinking. Its volunteers have worked in the fields of health, education, sustainable development and conflict resolution.

Recently, the foundation held an event on the edge of the Indian capital attended by an estimated around 3.5m people, a gathering believed to be the largest of its kind.

While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined the stage with Mr Shankar during the World Culture Festival 2016, the movement has also been fined for allegedly damaging the ecology of the fragile Yamuna River flood plain The foundation has denied the claim and is appealing the fine.

Mr Shankar, who was born in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, said his aim was to bring people of all faiths and nationalities together. In the past, he has received death threats from groups such as the Taliban and Isis.

Asked about the intention of the Delhi gathering, he said it was to give the world a message that we are one family. He added: We are different in our religions, in our customs. in our culture. We need to give to the world this message that we are one world family.

Mr Shankar's organisation denied claims that its event had damaged the Yamuna River (AP)

Asked for his opinion about Indias Hindu caste system, a system that particularly in rural areas determine how a person lives, works, marries and dies, he said: Actually politicians want want the caste system the way it is. But people from any caste can rise to any level. its only been by the profession, but not by birth. people form any cast can raise to any level.

The AOL has issued a statement denying that it damaged the Yamuna, considered to be the second most sacred river in India.

The Art of Living has a huge regard for the environment. We have never violated nor do we have any intention to violate any laws of the country.

It added: The AOL has been tirelessly working since 35 years now for environmental good which specifically includes work done towards restoration of dying rivers in the country.
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Lynxes may be reintroduced to the UK after breeding programmes elsewhere in Europe have succeeded in saving the big cats from extinction.

The numbers of Iberian lynx, which historically lived in Portugal and Spain, have tripled over just 15 years following programmes which sought to reverse the effects of forest destruction in those countries.

From fewer than 100 cats and only 25 breeding females in early 2002, numbers had increased to some 400 cats, mostly in southern Spain, by the end of last year, according to the BBC.

There were also smaller new populations of the cats in the hills near Toledo in south western Spain and in southern Portugal.

Now the Lynx UK Trust is hoping to return the Iberian lynx, which is smaller and has darker spots than the European lynx, for the first time in more than 1,000 years.

The organisation is applying for licences to release cats brought over from Romania at unfenced sites in Cumbria, Norfolk, Northumberland, Argyll and Aberdeenshire for a five year trial period.

An Iberian lynx runs after being released in Villafranca de Cordoba in Spain (Reuters/Marcelo Del Pozo)

Dr Paul O'Donoghue, adviser to the International Union for Conservation of Nature cat specialist group, said the plans were "incredibly exciting."

"The Iberian lynx project has been incredibly successful and we hope to emulate that in the UK," he told the BBC.

But farmers have expressed concern in the past at the threat the lynx could pose to livestock and grouse.

A spokesman for the National Farmers' Union told the International Business Times: "We believe budgets are better focused on developing existing biodiversity."

Yet supporters of the project have said that lynxes will aid other conservation projects by keeping rabbit and deer numbers under control.

The Iberian lynx mostly eats rabbits, unlike the European lynx. Although they are as big as a large dog and have sharp claws and teeth, they are not a threat to humans.

Its numbers in southern Europe steadily dropped over the last two centuries when rabbits became diseased and cork forests, the cat's traditional habitat, began to be cut down.

Hunting and intensive agriculture in Britain during the medieval period, meanwhile, saw the European lynx disappear far sooner from the UK at about 1,000 years ago.
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A body has been found in a police search for a North Tyneside man who had been missing for over a month.

Officers looking for James Prout found the body a short distance from his home on St Stephens Way in Percy Main.

The discovery was made on Easter Sunday at around 3:30pm, just hours after Northumbria Police launched a murder inquiry into the 43-year-olds disappearance.

The body has not been formally identified, but police say they believe it is Mr Prout, and have informed his family.

Five people, including two men - aged 26 and 42 - and three women - aged 55, 49, and 25, remain in police custody having been arrested on suspicion of murder. They are understood to come from Mr Prouts circle of friends.

Mr Prout was reported missing on Good Friday, but it emerged he had not been seen for weeks.

A major search nearby Mr Prouts home was undertaken after police were called to a violent incident at an address in St Stephen's Way at about 8am on Good Friday.

Police initially issued an appeal for information over the whereabouts of Mr Prout and his ex-partner Anne Corbett, 25.

Ms Corbett was found safe in the Durham area on Saturday.

Northumbria Police Superintendent, Peter Bent, has stressed this is an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider community.

"Our officers have been speaking to a number of people and searches have been conducted on St Stephen's Way and in the area surrounding it, said Mr Bent.

"As a result of those searches police have found a body a short distance from his home address. Formal identification is yet to take place but we are fairly certain that it is James Prout.

Additional reporting by Press Association
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A hospital has urged its local residents not to waste Easter in A&E after a number of people came to emergency services with health complaints from "overindulgence".

South Tees Hospitals issued a warning over Facebook on Sunday after people arrived at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough with stomach aches and indigestion caused by over eating.

The NHS Foundation Trust called on Teesside residents to rest at home and drink plenty of water after having one too many Easter eggs and a big Sunday dinner.

It also advised people to visit their local pharmacies, which are able to provide remedies for stomach problems.

Julie Suckling, directorate manager of A&E, said many people mistakenly believe they can get a quicker referral to a specialist for minor illnesses if they arrive at A&E rather than going to their GP.

Ms Suckling said: Minor complaints that reoccur should be dealt with by a GP and you should only attend for assessment if you have an acute (sudden and serious) complaint, that requires emergency care.

Another social media post issued by the NHS Trust said: Earwax, stomach problems caused by overeating, false nails that won't come off, headache, period pain, colds and flu, sickness and diarrhoea - we have seen all of these in A&E in recent weeks.

2016 Easter celebrations around the world Show all 20 1 /20 2016 Easter celebrations around the world 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Willy Salvador, 59, hangs from a cross as part of his penitence during a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan, Pampanga Getty images 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines articipants lie on the ground after whipping their bloodied backs with bamboo as part of their penitence during a ceremony reenacting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan. Getty images 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines articipants whip their bloodied backs with bamboo as part of their penitence during the re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ for Good Friday celebrations ahead of Easter in the village of San Juan. Getty images 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Hungary Dancers of 'Matyo Folklor Art Association' in traditional clothes, react as boys throw water in Mezokovesd, some 130 km east of Budapest. Getty images 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines A resident carries a statue of Jesus Christ to the church in preparation for the Good Friday procession during Holy Week celebration in Gasan, Marinduque. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Ruben Enaje, who is portraying Jesus Christ for the 30th time, screams while a resident acting as a Roman soldier pulls up a nail on his palm Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Penitent Ruben Enaje, who is portraying Jesus Christ for the 30th time, is carried on a stretcher by rescuers after he was nailed on a wooden cross during a Good Friday crucifixion reenactment in Cutud town, Philippines Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Mexico A man holding a rabbit looks at men dressed as ancient Romans as they take part in a procession, during Holy Week celebrations, in Taxco. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world South Africa Nuns carry a cross during a silent march celebrating Good Friday in Durban. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Mexico Masked penitents prepare before the start of a procession, a part of Holy Week celebrations, in Taxco. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Penitents locally called "Morions" wear masks and centurion garbs as they take part in a Good Friday procession as part of Holy Week celebration in Gasan, Marinduque. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world El Salvador Members of the El Jesus Nazareno brotherhood participate in the Los Cristos Procession as part of Holy Week celebrations in the town of Izalco. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Paraguay Actors take part in a re-enactment during a Holy Week procession to prepare for Good Friday celebration in Luque city. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Paraguay Actors take part in a re-enactment during a Holy Week procession to prepare for Good Friday celebration in Luque city. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Peru Local and foreign inmates participate in a performance of the play Jesus Christ Superstar to celebrate Holy Week at Sarita Colonia prison in Callao. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Penitents wearing masks, known locally as "Morions" take a selfie during the start of Holy Week celebrations in Mogpog, Marinduque. Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Hungary Hungary Reuters 2016 Easter celebrations around the world Philippines Resident portraying Roman soldier pulls up a nail on a foot of penitent Ruben Enaje in Pampanga, Philippines. Reuters

"Please only attend A&E if you are seriously ill or injured. If you attend with a minor illness or injury, you could face a long wait."

Previous announcements from South Tees Hospitals warned Easter would be a busy time for their A&E department, with extra consultants drafted in to The James Cook University Hospital to cope with the expected surge in patients over the bank holiday weekend.

The news comes as January NHS England data revealed 88.7 per cent of patients were dealt with in four hours - the worst monthly performance since the target of 95 per cent began in 2004, the BBC reports.
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The Prince of Wales is expected to visit Iran, in what will be the first official royal trip to the country for more than 40 years.

The Foreign Office and Clarence house are in talks with the authorities in Tehran about arranging a tour for Prince Charles this autumn, a royal source told The Sunday Times.

The proposed trip has been made possible as a result of an international deal made between international bodies last year, in which nuclear sanctions on Iran were lifted.

Recommended Read more Iran insurance legislation could be step forward for gender equality

It is hoped that Prince Charles trip will help to boost trade and commercial links between the two countries, as well as marking a significant change in Anglo-Iranian relations.

A Clarence House spokesman said: The autumn tour is not confirmed. But the newspaper source was quoted as saying: The prince is very keen to visit Iran. He hopes he would be able to use his role as a diplomat to further encourage the relationship and dialogue between the two countries,

These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Show all 15 1 /15 These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Empire house, Knightsbridge SW7 Price 4,950,000 Situated on the second floor (with lift), this opulent property benefits from a reception room with dining area, two double bedrooms, both with en-suite bathrooms, a guest cloakroom and a kitchen/breakfast room. Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Empire house, Knightsbridge SW7 Located within a magnificent Grade II listed portered mansion block, the apartment occupies a prominent location in one of London`s most affluent and cosmopolitan areas, Knightsbridge Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Empire house, Knightsbridge SW7 Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Chesham Place, Belgravia SW1X 13,950,000 4,932 sq ft The period house in the heart of Belgravia boasts five bedrooms and five bathrooms. Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Chesham Place, Belgravia SW1X Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Chesham Place, Belgravia SW1X Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Hyde Park Street, Connaught Village W2 Price: 5,950,000 A four bedroom lateral apartment measuring in excess of 3,000 sq ft, and is situated in the heart of Connaught Village within a period white stucco fronted building Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Hyde Park Street, Connaught Village W2 The property has been finished to a good standards, and features a grand entrance hall, a large double bright reception room with park views, a separate kitchen and utility room, a large master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite shower room, three further double bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms and exceedingly high ceilings throughout Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Hyde Park Street, Connaught Village W2 The property is located opposite Hyde Park and just a short walk from Marble Arch tube station, Lancaster Gate, Paddington and Oxford Street. These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Hyde Park Street, Connaught Village W2 Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Park Road, St Johns Wood NW8 Price: 1,600,000 A fifth floor apartment in a prestigious portered block in St Johns Wood. The property boasts two spacious double bedrooms with the master bedroom befitting from an en-suite bathroom. Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Elystan Place, Chelsea SW3 This unique lateral house, nearly fifteen metres wide and on four floors only, features windows on all four sides of the house with front and rear entrances and the feeling of a detached house. Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Elystan Place, Chelsea SW3 Located just off Chelsea Green, the house features a grand entrance hall, three large reception rooms, a separate kitchen and dining room, five double bedrooms (of which two have en-suite bathrooms), five bathrooms, a utility room, plant room, private east facing patio and direct access onto the west facing communal gardens. Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Elystan Place, Chelsea SW3 Lawrie Cornish These properties caught the eye of Iranian buyers Elystan Place, Chelsea SW3 Lawrie Cornish

This is not the first time in recent years the prince has travelled to Iran  he visited the Iranian city of Bam in October 2004 after an earthquake devastated the area. However, officials have said that particular trip was made in his capacity as president of the British Red Cross charity, and not as a royal figure.

The last official royal visit to the conservative country was made by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in 1975, four years before the Iranian revolution to overthrow the Pahlavi dynasty.

Prince Charles is said to have a strong interest in Persian history and helped to fund an Iranian documentary about the life of the Persian poet and theologian Rumi.

Should the trip go ahead, he hopes to meet President Hassan Rouhani and Iranian business leaders, as well as visiting ancient cities such as Isfaham and Shiraz.

In August last year, Philip Hammond became the first British Foreign Secretary to visit Iran for more than a decade, a trip he said was a symbol of warming relations between the two nations. He later warned that relations would take place within the confines that will always be imposed by the fact that we have fundamentally different views.

Britain, which has historically been viewed with mistrust by Iranians, reopened its embassy in Tehran only last year, four years after it was closed when protesters stormed the site and set fire to part of the complex.
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A man is feared to have died while kayaking on a river in Surrey as Storm Katie battered parts of the UK bringing in escess of 100mph winds that caused widespread travel chaos.

Dozens of flights were cancelled at Gatwick and Heathrow and thousands of passengers diverted as flight schedules were wrecked across southen England.

More than 80,000 homes were left without power in Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Oxfordshire as the storm hit the south coast.

In Guildford, police are searching for a man who eyewitnesses said was overcome by strong currents while kayaking on the River Wey.

It is thought he was kayaking with his son and dog before they capsized. The boy was rescued, but his father was washed away.

Ch Insp Dave Mason, of Surrey Police, said: "We have a large number of officers out looking for this man alongside a number of fire crews.

"The man was spotted in the water by several members of the public and was clearly in difficulty due to the extremely strong current.

"We are doing everything we can to try and find him."

Elsewhere, a roof was ripped off a pub in Bermondsey, an industrial crane was bent double in Greenwich, and in the Channel Islands a gust of wind picked up an entire stable and dropped it outside a house.

Severe weather warnings have been issued by the Met Office for London and south-east England, while a yellow warning for wind has been issued for south Wales, the East and South-west.

Gusts of up to 106mph were recorded on the Isle of Wight and the Environment Agency issued 27 flood warnings after heavy rains.

Rubble strewn across the road outside The Duchess public house in Battersea, south west London (PA)

Passengers told of their terror as planes coming in to land at Gatwick and Heathrow airports were forced to divert to Birmingham and Manchester.

Dan Prance, 27, from south London, branded his trip back from Budapest the "worst flight of my life" and said passengers were so relieved when they finally touched down that many burst into tears.

He said: "When we approached into Gatwick from Budapest the plane was dropping suddenly and swinging left to right. You could see from the windows there was a massive storm happening outside, the wind and rain was smashing against the glass.

"We got closer to the ground at Gatwick until the captain suddenly aborted the landing and we went shooting back up into the sky to attempt again.

"The captain came on the PA system and explained that the winds were way too strong for this kind of plane to land and he had to abort the landing at the last moment for safety. It was absolutely terrifying."

A construction crane bent overnight in high winds brought by Storm Katie in south London (AFP/Getty)

He said they were eventually diverted to Birmingham but only discovered where they were when they landed and people checked Google Maps.

Railways have also been disrupted after planned Easter engineering works were exacerbated by fallen trees on a number of lines in Surrey and Sussex.

In Battersea, south-west London, high winds brought down part of a pub's roof support, spreading rubble across the road.

An industrial crane in Greenwich was bent double by the winds. No injuries have been reported, but Creekside Road was closed and a nearby building evacuated.

Richmond Park was also closed as a safety precaution.

Fallen trees and debris in flood water has also held up motorists, while the Dartford River Crossing and M48 Severn Bridge were closed completely overnight on Sunday by Highways England.

Junctions on the M6 Northbound have now been re-opened after being shut because of rain running off fields flooding the lanes.

Ships and ferries were suspended in Dover harbour due to the strong winds and high seas.

The London Fire Brigade has been called to more than 110 incidents, including collapsed scaffolding and fallen trees.

A spokesperson said: Firefighters are always on hand should any buildings, hoardings or scaffolding be left in a precarious position and posing a risk to life because of high winds.

Details of weather warnings for Monday 28 March, 2016 (Met Office)

"Our 999 control officers have worked tirelessly to deal with hundreds of calls and get fire crews there as quickly as possible.

To help stay safe during windy weather people should always clear gardens, balconies and window sills of anything that could be blown away. They should also take extra care if they venture outside and be careful using candles in the case of a power cut.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Storm Katie has wrecked the flight schedules at airports in southern England, with dozens of planes and thousands of passengers in the wrong places. Many morning arrivals due to touch down at London Heathrow and Gatwick were diverted to airports hundreds of miles away.

At Gatwick, some flights tried to land but were forced to abandoned the attempts. They diverted to Birmingham, Manchester and other airports.

Movements at Heathrow were disrupted due to a decision by air-traffic controllers to reduce the flow rate - i.e. increase the distance between arriving aircraft. Heathrow is the busiest two-runway airport in the world, and at the morning peak for arrivals there is little slack in the system to cope with disruption.

The most extreme diversions appear to have been the overnight British Airways flights from Johannesburg. One landed at Glasgow, the other at Shannon in the west of Ireland. The passengers eventually arrived around five hours late. Other intercontinental arrivals from Singapore, Delhi and Dubai turned up in Manchester, while the Sao Paulo and Bombay services flew via Birmingham.

Short-haul flights to Heathrow from Gothenburg and Dusseldorf were diverted to Stansted and Manchester respectively.

BA has cancelled more than 50 flights to and from Heathrow so far, with additional cancellations from Gatwick. Most are short-haul trips, but at least one transatlantic service - to Washington DC - has been cancelled.

A spokeswoman for British Airways told The Independent: As a result of Storm Katie causing poor weather at Heathrow and Gatwick we are experiencing delays and a number of cancellations to our schedule today.

We are sorry for any disruption to customers' travel plans and we would advise customers to check ba.com for the latest information about their flight.

Many other airlines have been affected, with American Airlines, South African Airways and United long-haul arrivals diverted.

Virgin Atlantics early morning arrival from Barbados was six hours late, and some outbound passengers faced heavy delays.

At Gatwick, thousands of easyJet passengers encountered delays and cancellations. About 30 flights to and from destinations including Amsterdam, Athens, Faro, Munich, Paris and Nice were cancelled. Others were severely delayed. Passengers on the 6am flight to Lanzarote finally took off at noon.

In an online statement, easyJet said: Many of our aircraft had to divert to other airports across the UK, as a result of this a number of our aircraft are not in London Gatwick for this morning. Our operations team have made multiple changes to our flying programme in order to limit the disruption.

The worst-affected travellers are likely to be those stranded abroad who were booked to come back from Easter breaks in order to return to work. They could face waits of many hours or even days. If a flight on a particular route is cancelled, passengers are not automatically accommodated on the next departure; they go to the back of the queue.

Recommended Read more Storm Katie damages property and disrupts travel across UK

The storm will prove costly for the airlines. Besides losing revenue from cancelled flights, they are also obliged to provide care for stranded passengers until they can get them to their destinations.

Trains and ferries have also been disrupted by the strong winds and rain that swept across the region during the morning. On the railways, the effects of the planned Easter engineering work have been exacerbated by flooding, landslips and fallen trees.

Passengers who were lucky enough to touch down at Gatwick found onward trans disrupted by obstructions on the lines to London and Horsham. The line between Salisbury and Exeter will remain closed for the rest of the day because of a landslip. In Kent, Southeastern trains were delayed by up to an hour.

P&O Ferries, the biggest operator between Dover and Calais, asked travellers to check-in as normal for their booked sailing time, but warned: Due to adverse weather conditions our services are subject to delays.

Tuesday's Brittany Ferries sailings in both directions between Portsmouth and Bilbao have been cancelled because of expected bad weather in the Bay of Biscay.
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Boris Johnson has praised Vladimir Putin's "ruthless clarity" in backing President Assad to remove "maniac" Isis jihadists from Palmyra.

The London Mayor said the UK should send top archaeologists to help restore the ancient city of Palmyra after Putin exposed the West's "ineffective" response to the Syria crisis by helping liberate it.

The Mayor of London said the Russian president deserved credit for showing "ruthless clarity" in providing Bashar Assad's regime with military backing, reportedly including troops on the ground.

"If Putin's troops have helped winkle the maniacs from Palmyra, then (it pains me to admit) that is very much to the credit of the Russians," he wrote in his Daily Telegraph column.

Forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad take positions on a look-out point overlooking the historic city of Palmyra (Reuters)

"They have made the West look relatively ineffective; and so now is the time for us to make amends, and to play to our strengths.

"We have some of the greatest archaeological experts in the world.

"I hope that the Government will soon be funding them to go to Syria and help the work of restoration.

"It is far cheaper than bombing and more likely to lead to long-term tourism and economic prosperity.

"One day Syria's future will be glorious; but that will partly depend on the world's ability to enjoy its glorious past.

"British experts should and will be at the forefront of the project."

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

The recapture by Syrian government forces of the city, known to Syrians as the "Bride of the Desert", represents a significant blow to Isis.

Experts are set to begin assessing the scale of the damage done to the 2,000-year-old ruins, with many famous monuments known to have been destroyed.

Mr Johnson wrote that while the regime itself was "evil", "the victory of Assad is a victory for archaeology, a victory for all those who care about the ancient monuments of one of the most amazing cultural sites on earth".

He said: "It is alas very hard to claim that the success of the Assad forces is a result of any particular British or indeed western policy.

"How could it be? We rightly loathe his regime and what it stands for, and for the last few years we have been engaged in an entirely honourable mission to build an opposition to Assad that was not composed simply of Daesh.

"That effort has not worked, not so far. It has been Putin who with a ruthless clarity has come to the defence of his client, and helped to turn the tide.

"If reports are to be believed, the Russians have not only been engaged in air strikes against Assad's opponents, but have been seen on the ground as well."

A replica of the destroyed gateway of the Temple of Bel is due to be raised in Trafalgar Square next month in a show of solidarity with Palmyra.

"I hope it will also be a sign of our British determination to be useful in the reconstruction of the country," Mr Johnson wrote.

PA
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David Cameron no longer acknowledges some of his most senior ministers when he passes them in the corridor and wont make eye contact with pro-Brexit Tories.

Thats how a senior Government source has described the extraordinary civil war raging within the Conservative Party over the EU referendum in June.

Tensions that bubbled to the surface following George Osbornes Budget and the subsequent resignation of Iain Duncan Smith now look set to leave a lasting imprint on Mr Camerons legacy.

It has got pretty bad, the source told the Daily Telegraph. David doesn't even make eye contact when he passes the eurosceptics in the corridor.

I don't think he realises the damage he's doing to the party though. Whatever happens in the referendum, he is creating a deep split that isn't going to go away. His behaviour is totally irresponsible and a lot of people won't forgive him.

While Downing Street has denied the claims of the anonymous source, at the weekend the public infighting within the Cabinet reached new heights as Vote Leave, a pro-Brexit group chaired by Michael Gove, issued a damning statement against Jeremy Hunt.

Matthew Elliott, chief executive of Vote Leave, issued a statement which read: Does this government's scaremongering know no bounds? Under Jeremy Hunt's stewardship, the NHS has plummeted into a financial crisis.

If we vote to leave we can stop wasting money on EU bureaucrats and instead spend our money on our priorities like the NHS.

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.

The idea of a campaign group chaired by Mr Gove, the Justice Secretary and a close friend of Mr Cameron, launching such an open attack on the Tory partys own record on the NHS would have been unthinkable just weeks ago.

Meanwhile, the other major Brexit campaign group, Leave.EU, was embroiled in a controversy of its own on Sunday when it emerged that it employs at least four call centre staff from EU countries.

According to the Guardian, the Ukip-backed group seemed happy to take advantage of the migrant workforce despite stating on its website under "facts" on migration that low-skilled European workers "can often deprive British citizens of jobs in the low-skilled end of the labour market".

Arron Banks, the campaign and Ukips major donor, insisted his beef was not with immigration but with controlling immigration.
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The Department for Work and Pensions has spent over 100,000 on lawyers fighting a court battle to save its controversial bedroom tax policy.

Ministers were told that the under-occupancy charge  which mainly affects disabled people  was unlawful and discriminatory by the Court of Appeal in January.

The Government had been taken to court by the parents of a severely disabled child, who were forced to pay the charge on a room slept in by overnight carers and used to store specially adapted equipment.

Former Secretary for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith, who introduced the 'bedroom tax' (Reuters)

A rape victim who was also being forced to pay the charge on her police-installed panic room was also successful in her case against the Department at the same time.

Ministers rejected the court ruling and said they would get it overturned at the Supreme Court, however.

As previously reported, around 50,000 of taxpayers cash was spent fighting the vulnerable peoples claims up to the point the Court of Appeal ruled against the Department.

New DWP secretary Stephen Crabb has yet to cancel the charge (AFP/Getty)

Now new figures disclosed by ministers show 52,299 extra has already been spent on legal costs since the Government decided to appeal the ruling at the Supreme Court.

Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Owen Smith told the Daily Mirror newspaper:

The new Secretary of State has a chance to quickly bring an end to the Bedroom Tax, one of Iain Duncan Smiths most shameful legacies.

Its a brutal policy thats being used to take money from disabled people, so the Tories can give tax breaks to the wealthiest and big business.

In pictures: Bedroom tax protests Show all 5 1 /5 In pictures: Bedroom tax protests In pictures: Bedroom tax protests pg-26-bedroom-tax-pa.jpg PA In pictures: Bedroom tax protests bedroom2.jpg In pictures: Bedroom tax protests bedroom3.jpg In pictures: Bedroom tax protests bedroom4.jpg In pictures: Bedroom tax protests bedroom1.jpg

If Stephen Crabb doesnt drop this eye-wateringly expensive legal case against a family in his own constituency with a severely disabled grandson, itll show the change of management at the DWP just means meet the new boss, same as a the old boss.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesman said: Removing the spare room subsidy has restored fairness to the system.

We know there are cases like these where people need extra help which is why were giving local authorities 870 million for discretionary payments.
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A Labour activist who claimed that Isis is controlled by the state of Israel insists he has not been suspended by the party despite reports saying his membership had been revoked over the comments.

Bob Campbell, from Middlesbrough, said on Facebook just one day after the Brussels attacks that "Isis is run by Israel".

A day later, Mr Campbell posted a picture which claimed Isis has not attacked Israel "because the dog doesnt bite its own tail".

A Facebook post, made the day after the Brussels bombings (Bob Campbell/Facebook)

The Sunday Times reported that Mr Campbell was suspended after local MP Tom Blenkinsop found the comments and demanded an investigation.

However, Mr Campbell, who denies being anti-Semitic, told The Independent that he has not been suspended.

In addition to the two recent Facebook posts, Mr Campbell has also posted pictures comparing the Holocaust to the situation in Gaza, captioned "Holocaust the sequelPlease stop Israel".

He has also posted pictures depicting the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu being hung from a tree and an Israeli flag adapted with an image of a rat featuring the words: "The real plague".

Mr Campbell has since denied posting the image of the rat.

I post lots of pro-Jewish posts but I [also] post anti-Zionist posts, he said.

Mr Campbell is the latest person in a series of Labour Party members accused of anti-Semitism.

Earlier in March, member Vicki Kirby was also suspended pending investigation for allegedly posting anti-Semitic comments to Facebook.

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. 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She had previously been suspended in 2014 for making aggressive anti-Israel comments on social media.

The Labour Mayor of Bradford, Khadim Hussain, was suspended for similar reasons.

Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell told The Independent that Labour Party members with anti-Semitic views should be banned for life.

"Im not having it. People might say Ive changed my views  well, do something in another organisation, said Mr McDonnell.

Anti-Semitism is in our society, it will rear its head as a result of that in any part of society and weve got to be eternally vigilant.

No one at the Labour Party was available to speak at the time of publishing.
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The Governments planned cut to Capital Gains Tax will give an average of 3,000 to people in the richest 0.3 per cent of the population, according to new figures.

Labour, which drew up the analysis, said the tax cut was a giveaway to millionaires and that the Chancellor George Osborne was looking after a wealthy minority.

In this month's Budget the Chancellor cut the rate of the tax from 28 per cent to 20 per cent for higher rate income taxpayers and 18 per cent to 10 per cent for basic rate taxpayers.

The partys shadow chancellor John McDonnell has previously highlighted that the capital gains tax cut costs taxpayers about as much as would have been saved by planned cuts to disability benefits.

Those cuts, to the Personal Independence Payment, are now scrapped  following the resignation of the former Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith.

Mr Duncan Smith warned that the Government was balancing the budget on the back of the most vulnerable in society  citing steep cuts to taxes paid by the wealthy which were announced alongside sharp cuts to support for vulnerable people.

A spokesperson for George Osborne told the Guardian newspaper the criticism from Labour of the tax cut was hypocritical because CGT would still be two per cent higher than it was under Gordon Brown.

Mr Osborne had raised the tax while in Coalition with the Liberal Democrats  who believed it should be equalised with income tax for reasons of fairness. Now the liberals have left government the tax has again been cut, however.

Mr McDonnell said: These figures show the priorities of George Osborne. He planned to fund this 3,000 giveaway to 0.3 per cent of the population by taking over 3,000 from hundreds of thousands of disabled people.

When you consider the small number who benefit from this tax cut or that the pattern of taxable receipts from capital gains tax come from those who trade in financial assets, it blows apart any claim the Tories make about we are all in it together.

This crass tax cut should not be going ahead because we need an economy that works for the many, not tax cuts for the few.

John McDonnell criticised the tax cut (PA)

The overall effect of the tax and spending changes in the Budget is distributionally regressive  taking from the poorest and giving to the richest.

The Institute for Fiscal studies said in its analysis that many households in the bottom 20 per cent of earners would end up losing 12 per cent of their income by 2019, while households in the top half of the income scale would not lose anything.

Paul Johnson, the director of the IFS, said just after the Budget: Raising the threshold for paying higher-rate tax is clearly helping people in the middle- and upper-income brackets, while the cuts to benefits reduce the incomes of families on lower incomes.

George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Show all 8 1 /8 George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Debt forecasts up, growth forecasts down The OBRs new forecasts have downgraded growth in all of the next five years to 2020. The watchdog says the economy will only grow by 2 per cent in 2016, as opposed to the anticipated 2.4 per cent. Borrowing and productivity growth are also down  with forecast borrowing in 2018-198 16 billion higher George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance New tax on sugary drinks The Chancellor announced a new tax on sugary soft drinks, which is projected to raise 520 million. At least some of the money will be spent on doubling funding for school sport, the Chancellor says. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn welcomed the levy George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Tax cut for higher earners paying the 40p rate The Chancellor has raised the threshold for paying the higher rate of income tax to 45,000. The higher rate is paid by roughly the richest 15 per cent, currently people earning over 42,386 George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Increase in tax-free income tax threshold The tax-free allowance increase to 11,500 in April 2017  up from 10,600 now. The Chancellor previously raised the allowance from 6,475 in coalition with the Liberal Democrats. The Conservative manifesto pledges to put the allowance up to 12,500 by the end of the Parliament George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance New devolution for counties and powers for London and Manchester The West of England, the East of England and Greater Lincolnshire will all get elected mayor-led combined authorities with new powers. The Chancellor says they are backed by 1 billion new funding. Greater Manchester will get new powers of criminal justice while London will keep its business rates  giving whoever is elected Mayor a lot more spending power George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Fuel duty frozen for sixth year running The Chancellor had planned to end the fuel duty freeze he had put in place for the whole previous parliament. In the event, he has announced a freeze for another year George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance All schools to become academies As reported yesterday the Chancellor unveiled legislation to turn all schools into academies. He said all schools would either be academies or on their way to being academies by 2020, and that funding had been set aside to fund the change George Osborne 2016 budget at a glance Lifetime ISA The Chancellor announced a new savings account to encourage under-40s to save for retirement  for every 4 saved, the Government will top this up by 1 up to the value of 4,000 a year. Tax-free ISAs will also be increased from 15,000 to 20,000

A spokesperson for George Osborne said: The government wants to ensure that companies can access the capital they need to grow and create jobs. These changes are about incentivising individuals to invest in shares, helping British firms access the capital they need to grow and create jobs.

For the first time, gains from residential property will be treated differently from other types of investment, attracting an 8 per cent surcharge. The 18 per cent and 28 per cent rates for residential property means the government is encouraging investment in shares over property. Thats a pro-growth, pro-enterprise policy that will boost the economy at a time of global uncertainty.

We certainly wont take any lectures from Labour on this: at 20 per cent, the rate of CGT paid by higher rate taxpayers on other types of gain will still be two percentage points higher than it was when they were last in power, and for residential property and carried interest will remain at least 10 percentage points higher. For Labour to complain now is shameless and hypocritical.
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The Catholic faithful in the United States are mourning the death of Mother Mary Angelica, a nun credited with launching what became the giant Eternal Word Television Network, with programming devoted to spreading the Vaticans message.

The nun-turned-media-pioneer, who became a fixture in the households of millions of Catholics with her own show, Mother Angelica Live, died on Easter Sunday in a monastery in suburban Birmingham, Alabama. She had been in ill health since suffering a stroke on Christmas Eve in 2001.

Her original cable show, cobbled together in a garage of the same monastery in 1981 on a $200 budget, eventually grew into EWTN, which calls itself the biggest religious media network in the world, broadcasting to 264 homes in 145 countries. It also has hundreds of radio affiliates.

Pope Francis recently blessed the nun (EPA)

Mother Angelica is the only woman in the history of television to found and lead a cable network for 20 years, Raymond Arroyo, the managing editor of EWTN's news division, said in a statement. Her own show, which for years was one of the most popular on the network, has been showing in repeats since her stroke, which severely diminished her ability to speak.

While the network regularly drew criticism from either end of the spectrum of the Church - either for being too liberal in its programming and commentary or too conservative - its executives always argued that it tried to set its compass by the Vatican.

In turn, Rome had made clear its own approval of EWTN. In 2009, Pope Benedict bestowed the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal on Mother Angelica and also executive Deacon Bill Steltemeier. The medal is the highest honor a Pope can bestow upon laity and religious.

Mother has always, and will always, personify EWTN, the Network which she founded, Michael Warsaw, the CEO and Chairman of the network said. In the face of sickness and long-suffering trials, Mother's example of joy and prayerful perseverance exemplified the Franciscan spirit she held so dear. We thank God for Mother Angelica and for the gift of her extraordinary life.

Among others paying tribute yesterday was Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia, who is also a board member. Mother Angelica was one of the great American Catholics of the past half-century, a woman of extraordinary faith, intelligence, energy and determination, he offered. In founding and growing EWTN into a major media resource for the global Church, she achieved things almost everyone thought impossible.
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Cities across America are moving to copy an initiative introduced in California: paying criminals up to $1,000 (700) a month not to commit another gun crime.

The controversial approach launched in Richmond, a working-class suburb in north San Francisco, is claimed to have helped to reduce murder rates, some say by half. But the programme requires governments to reject some basic tenets of law enforcement and challenges notions of appropriate ways to spend tax dollars.

In Richmond, the city has hired ex-convicts to mentor dozens of its most violent offenders and allows them to take unconventional steps if it means preventing the next death. For example, the mentors have coaxed inebriated teenagers threatening violence into city cars, not for a ride to jail but home to sleep it off  sometimes with loaded firearms still in their waistbands. The mentors have funded trips to South Africa, London and Mexico City for rival gang members in the hope that shared experiences and time away from the city would ease tensions and forge new connections.

And when the elaborate efforts at engagement fail, the mentors still pay those who pledge to improve, even when they are like 21-year-old Lonnie Holmes, who was caught with a gun, or are suspected of murder. The city-paid mentors operate at a distance from police. To maintain the trust of the young men they are guiding, mentors do not inform police of what they know about crimes committed.

And yet, interest in the programme is surging. Officials in Miami, Toledo, Baltimore and more than a dozen cities in between are studying how to replicate Richmonds scheme.

The famous for and against US gun control Show all 31 1 /31 The famous for and against US gun control The famous for and against US gun control Against: Robert De Niro Despite the actor being a gun-wielding fast-talker, he told Daily Mail: "There should be more control. It has just gotten out of hand, how easily you can get guns." The famous for and against US gun control For: Brad Pitt "America is founded on guns. It;s in out DNA. Its very strange but I feel better having a gun." Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control For: Angelina Jolie "Brad and I are not against having a gun in the house, and we do have one. If anybody comes into my home and tries to hurt my kids, Ive no problem shooting them." AFP/Getty The famous for and against US gun control For: Johnny Depp "When I was a kid it was a controlled atmosphere, we weren't shooting at humans - we were shooting at cans and bottles mostly. I will most certainly take my kids out for target practice." Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control For: Bruce Willis "Everyone has a right to bear arms. If you take guns away from legal gun owners, then the only people who have guns are the bad guys." Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control For: Clint Eastwood "I have a very strict gun control policy: if there's a gun around, I want to be in control of it." Reuters The famous for and against US gun control For: Whoopi Goldberg "Im an NRA member, as you know or probably dont know... I want to know that theres at least some way to prevent folks who are just getting out from mental institutions [from getting guns]." The famous for and against US gun control For: Vince Vaughn "Banning guns is like banning forks in an attempt to stop making people fat. Taking away guns, taking away drugs, the booze, it won't rid the world of criminality... I support people having a gun in public full stop, not just in your home." Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control For: Donald Trump "Democrats want to confiscate all guns, which is a dumb idea because only the law-abiding citizens would turn in their guns and the bad guys would be the only ones left armed. The Republicans walk the NRA line and refuse even limited restrictions" Getty The famous for and against US gun control Against: Matt Damon I actually hate guns. They freak me out. Rex The famous for and against US gun control Against: Mark Wahlberg "Well, I would love it if they could take all the guns away. Unfortunately, you cant do that so you hope that good people in the world have them to protect the people who cant protect themselves." AP The famous for and against US gun control Against: Sean Connery "It is said that a total ban on handguns, including .22s, would take away innocent pleasure from thousands of people. Is that more or less pleasure than watching your child grow up?" Rex Features The famous for and against US gun control Against: Arnold Schwarzenegger "Im for gun control. Im a peace-loving guy." Lionsgate The famous for and against US gun control Against: Sylvester Stallone "Until America, door to door, takes every handgun, this is what youre gonna have. Its pathetic. It really is pathetic. Its sad. Were living in the Dark Ages over there." Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Rashida Jones "Gun control is our only road to freedom. Freedom from the fear of senselessly losing children." Getty The famous for and against US gun control Against: Susan Sarandon "How much more suffering & loss will it take before we better regulate the sale of arms in our country?" Getty The famous for and against US gun control Against: Beyonce Queen B was part of the Demand a Plan campaign against guns after Newton shooting, by appearing in a video alongside a bunch of celebrities. AP The famous for and against US gun control Against: Jamie Foxx A Hollywood gang joined Beyonce in the campaign... GETTY IMAGES The famous for and against US gun control Against: Cameron Diaz Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Jessica Alba Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Jennifer Garner Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Jennifer Aniston Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Jason Merritt | Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Jon Hamm The Mad Men actor also appeared in the video... The famous for and against US gun control Against: Reese Witherspoon Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Ellen DeGeneres Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Reuters The famous for and against US gun control Against: Julianne Moore Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. The famous for and against US gun control Against: Selena Gomez Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. GETTY IMAGES The famous for and against US gun control Against: Peter Dinklage The Game of Thrones also appeared in the video... Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Zooey Deschanel alongside the New Girl star. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Steve Carell Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign. Getty Images The famous for and against US gun control Against: Gwyneth Paltrow Took part in the Demand a Plan campaign, too.

The District of Columbia is the first in line. Implementing the model has emerged as a central fight this year between Washington DCs Mayor, Muriel Bowser, and its council. Ms Bowser, a Democrat, argues that the city should use its resources to fund jobs programmes and that there is little independent analysis of the Richmond scheme. She did not include money for it in her 2017 budget. But this month, the council unanimously approved the idea as the best response to a surge of violent deaths that rocked the city last year.

Five years into Richmonds multimillion-dollar experiment, 84 of 88 young men who have participated in the programme remain alive, and four in five have not been suspected of another gun crime or suffered a bullet wound, according to DeVone Boggan, the schemes founder.

In 2007, Richmonds murder tally surged to 47, making it the sixth-deadliest US city per capita. In the 20 preceding years, 740 people died from gun violence. Politicians began to see this as a public health emergency.

Washington Post
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Fans of Senator Bernie Sanders, the insurgent challenger to Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination, are celebrating after the candidate swept a trio of western states giving fresh lustre to a campaign that had started to dim.

The democratic socialist not only triumphed in caucus voting in Washington, Alaska and Hawaii this weekend but did so with huge margins, scoring no less than 68 per cent in any of them. He won the Alaska caucus by a landslide securing 81.6 per cent of the vote to just 18.4 per cent for Mrs Clinton.

His strong performance in the western states will not significantly alter the mathematics of the Democratic contest where Mrs Clinton still holds a wide lead in the delegate count. But it will surely give the Senator from Vermont a mighty psychological boost at the very moment he needed it most.

Recommended Read more Bernie Sanders interrupted by tiny bird and both get standing ovation

It has been a tough stretch for the Feel the Bern crew since Mr Sanders win in New Hampshire back at the start of February. Ms Clinton thereafter used strong support from blacks and Hispanics to block Mr Sanders progress especially in a swath of southern states that have voted in the weeks since.

The former first lady has a lead of a bit under 300 pledged delegates at this point, which becomes much wider if you include so-called super-delegates, mostly bigwigs from state and county Democratic parties, who can take sides anyway they like and so far have mostly promised to back Mrs Clinton.

But Mr Sanders evinced fresh optimism noting that next on the campaign road are some liberal-leaning northeastern and Midwestern states where he should be competitive, including during April, New York and Pennsylvania and also Wisconsin, which holds its primary on 5 April.

We are on a path toward victory, Mr Sanders told a Saturday evening crowd in Madison, Wisconsin, referring to his Alaska and Washington wins. The results from Hawaii didnt come in until the early hours of this morning. It is hard for anybody to deny that our campaign has the momentum.

In an interview with the Associated Press, he stressed the importance of having voting in the southern states behind him. The Deep South is a very conservative part of the country, he said. Now that were heading into a progressive part of the country, we expect to do much better. He added: There is a path to victory. Yet for Mr Sanders it is hard at this point to separate wishful from positive thinking.

Mr Sanders is basing his ambitions for winning Wisconsin on his unexpected victory in Michigan almost a month ago. Both states share a Midwestern mindset forged by years of declining industrial output and a struggling working class.

He is also holding out hope for New York, where his highly liberal platform, offering free state college education and healthcare for all, could resonate strongly, especially in vote-rich New York City. A loss in New York, which votes on 19 April, could be debilitating for Mrs Clinton who represented the state for two terms in the US Senate after her husband, Bill Clinton, left the White House.

Without the super-delegates taken into account, Mrs Clinton holds a delegate lead of 1,243 to 975 over Mr Sanders, according to an AP analysis. Include those super-delegates and the picture worsens for the Vermont Senator who trails 1,004 to 1,712 for the former first lady.
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US Secretary of State John Kerry has called the 2016 presidential race an embarrassment and warned that it is lowering the countrys reputation internationally.

The politician told CBSs Face the Nation that many of the world leaders with whom he meets expressed concerns over the election, saying: I think its fair to say that theyre shocked. It upsets peoples sense of equilibrium about our steadiness, about our reliability.

And to some degree I must say to you, some of the questions, the way theyre posed to me, its clear to me that whats happening is an embarrassment to our country, Mr Kerry warned.

The election race has been regarded by many commentators as one of the most divisive and fractured in recent years. Donald Trump remains the Republican front runner and has made many comments which have been seen as justifying discrimination and violence against religious and ethnic minorities.

Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Show all 14 1 /14 Donald Trump's most controversial quotes Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Isis: "Some of the candidates, they went in and didnt know the air conditioner didnt work and sweated like dogs, and they didnt know the room was too big because they didnt have anybody there. How are they going to beat ISIS?" Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On immigration: "I will build a great wall  and nobody builds walls better than me, believe me and Ill build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Free Trade: "Free trade is terrible. Free trade can be wonderful if you have smart people. But we have stupid people." PAUL J. RICHARDS | AFP | Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Mexicans: "When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending their best. Theyre sending people that have lots of problems. Theyre bringing drugs. Theyre bringing crime. Theyre rapists." Getty Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On China: "I just sold an apartment for $15 million to somebody from China. Am I supposed to dislike them?... I love China. The biggest bank in the world is from China. You know where their United States headquarters is located? In this building, in Trump Tower." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On work: "If you're interested in 'balancing' work and pleasure, stop trying to balance them. Instead make your work more pleasurable." AP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On success: "What separates the winners from the losers is how a person reacts to each new twist of fate." Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On life: "Everything in life is luck." AFP Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On ambition: "You have to think anyway, so why not think big?" Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On his opponents: "Bush is totally in favour of Common Core. I don't see how he can possibly get the nomination. He's weak on immigration. He's in favour of Common Core. How the hell can you vote for this guy? You just can't do it." Reuters Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Obamacare: "You have to be hit by a tractor, literally, a tractor, to use it, because the deductibles are so high. It's virtually useless. And remember the $5 billion web site?... I have so many web sites, I have them all over the place. I hire people, they do a web site. It costs me $3." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On Barack Obama: "Obama is going to be out playing golf. He might be on one of my courses. I would invite him. I have the best courses in the world. I have one right next to the White House." PA Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On himself: "Love him or hate him, Trump is a man who is certain about what he wants and sets out to get it, no holds barred. Women find his power almost as much of a turn-on as his money." Getty Images Donald Trump's most controversial quotes On America: "The American Dream is dead. But if I get elected president I will bring it back bigger and better and stronger than ever before and we will make America great again." GETTY

He has previously called for a temporary ban on Muslims from entering the US, supported killing terror suspects families in contravention of international human rights laws and supported military torture of prisoners. Recently at rallies, he has been accused of encouraging and tolerating violence. A number of arrests have been made amid allegations that protestors have been attacked and injured by Trump supporters. At a recent rally, Mr Trump said of one protestor: Id like to punch him in the face. At another, he said: Get him [a protestor] out. Try not to hurt him. If you do Ill defend you in court Are Trump rallies the most fun? Were having a good time.

Texas senator and fellow Republican nominee hopeful Ted Cruz has also made comments regarding Muslim communities which have been criticised as amounting to discrimination. He has advocated sending police officers to areas with large Muslim populations to patrol and secure them.
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Bangladesh has rejected a petition calling for the country to no longer recognise Islam as the its official state religion.

The High Court dismissed the request and ordered that those who brought it forward did not have theright to do so, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

The petition was reportedly put forward by secular activists in Bangladesh almost 30 years ago, warning that naming Islam as the state religion of Bangladesh could move the country towards fundamentalism.

It was signed by 15 high profile individuals, many of whom are now dead.

Bangladeshs largest Islamist political party, Jamaat-e-Islami, called for a nationwide strike protest to take place on the same day as the ruling with the aim to urge the High Court to reject the petition.

The party argued that 90 per cent of the country is Muslim, and that the people of Bangladesh did not wish for the state religion to be removed.

They also noted that Bangladeshi Muslims were respectful of minority religions and set a tremendous example of communal harmony even after having Islam as state religion.

Protests also took place on Friday outside the national Mosque in Dhaka, where over 3,000 Muslims gathered to denounce the petition.

Secularism is written into the Bangladeshi constitution as one of the countrys four principles, despite having a state religion.

The constitution pledges to honour the principle of secularism by eliminating discrimination and persecution of anyone practicing a particular religion, as well as eliminating the abuse of religion for political purposes.
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Thousands of protesters have clashed with police in Islamabad in the second day of protests over blasphemy laws in Pakistan.

Demonstrators gathered outside Parliament and other key buildings to demanding authorities implement Sharia, or Islamic law.

As many as 25,000 protesters occupied the high-security zone in Islamabad to press their demands, with some setting fire to cars. The army was deployed on Sunday to contain the rioters.

Demonstrators marched from the garrison town of Rawalpindi to Islamabad in protest at the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who some hard-line Muslims consider a hero for murdering Punjab province governor Salman Taseer.

Supporters of executed Islamist Mumtaz Qadri shout slogans as they sit-in during an anti-government protest in front of the parliament building in Islamabad on 28 March, 2016 (AFP/Getty)

In January 2011, Qadri shot Mr Taseer 28 times for defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges.

Mr Taseer had criticised Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws after Aasia Bibi was sentenced to death for allegedly insulting Islam and promoting her own faith.

Qadri told police he had killed the governor because he had spoken out against the blasphemy laws - at the time of the murder, thousands took to the streets in support of Qadri's views.

Supporters of the religious party Sunni Tehreek chant slogans during a sit-in protest near the parliament building in Islamabad, Pakistan, Monday, 28 March, 2016. (AP)

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstrations to protest what they say is Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's pro-western stance.

Earlier this month, the prime minister officially recognised holidays celebrated by the country's minority religious - the Hindu festival of Holi and the Christian Easter.

They have also denounced draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women.

A breakaway Taliban faction, which publicly supports Isis, claimed responsibility for a suicide bomb attack targeting Christians gathered for Easter.

At least 72 people - including 29 children - were killed in the attack on Sunday when the bomber struck in a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the power base of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

Pope Francis condemned the attack as "hideous" and demanded that Pakistani authorities protect religious minorities.

Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has a Christian population of more than two million.
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The Nobel laureate and Pakistani-born education activist Malala Yousafzai has said she is devastated by the bombing in Lahore which has left at least 70 people dead and 300 injured.

She called for unity in the face of the attack and expressed sympathy for the families of the victims.

It is believed the bomb was targeted at Christian families who were in a park celebrating Easter.

I am devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people today in Lahore, Ms Yousafzai said in a statement.

My heart goes out the victims and their families and friends.

I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms.

Emergency services tending to victims at the park following the explosion in Lahore (AFP/ Getty)

We stand together with the families of the victims.

Pakistan and the world must unite. Every life is precious and must be protected.

Ms Yousafzai was shot by the Taliban in 2012 after campaigning for the rights of girls to attend school in the Swat Valley region of Pakistan, where the militant Islamist group had influence.

She is now an international advocate for access to education and the world's youngest Nobel Prize laureate.

The Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahra has claimed responsibility for the attack and admitted it was religiously motivated.

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The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. 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"The target was Christians," said Ehsanullah Ehsan, a spokesman for the group.

"We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore."

The group has been fighting an insurgency and aims to overthrow the government and establish Islamic law.
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Dozens of children and mothers are among the victims of the Easter suicide bombing in a Lahore public park in which at least 72 people have been killed.

A breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack in Gulshan Iqbal Park.

Even though the group said it had deliberately targeted Christians "celebrating Easter", it has emerged that most of those killed in Lahore were Muslims.

Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal.

Pakistani authorities have launched a hunt for those behind the bombing - the deadliest on Pakistan soil since the Peshawar school massacre in December 2010 in which 134 children were slaughtered.

Some reports have placed the number of children killed on Sunday at 29. Many of those injured are in a serious condition, leading to fears the death toll could rise still further.

Blasts hit Lahore Show all 2 1 /2 Blasts hit Lahore Blasts hit Lahore 19402.bin AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary Blasts hit Lahore 19397.bin AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary

Punjab's chief minister, Shahbaz Sharif, has announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The explosion took place near the main gate of the park, close to the swings and rides of the children's play area.

Mohammad Ali, a student who lives nearby, said he saw many children killed.

"I saw body parts everywhere, especially those of young children," he told The Guardian.

"It was quite haunting, as many of the children's rides were still operating, while there were dead bodies lying all around them."

Forensic officers look for evidence at the site of a blast that happened outside a public park on Sunday, in Lahore, Pakistan, March 28, 2016 (Reuters/Mohsin Raza)

Parents were seen searching for their children among the debris in the aftermath of the blast.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter group of the Taliban, has been waging an insurgency in Pakistan in affiliation with the Taliban in Afghanistan, where militants have been trying to regain power since being toppled by the US and allies in 2001.

Yet Lahore has seen relatively few attacks compared to areas close to the Afghan border.

The countries most impacted by global terrorism Show all 11 1 /11 The countries most impacted by global terrorism The countries most impacted by global terrorism Thailand Thailand The countries most impacted by global terrorism Libya Libya The countries most impacted by global terrorism Somalia Somalia The countries most impacted by global terrorism Yemen Yemen The countries most impacted by global terrorism India India The countries most impacted by global terrorism Syria Syria The countries most impacted by global terrorism Pakistan Pakistan The countries most impacted by global terrorism Nigeria Nigeria The countries most impacted by global terrorism Afghanistan Afghanistan The countries most impacted by global terrorism Iraq Iraq The countries most impacted by global terrorism France

The Taliban's leadership has seemed fractured in recent months. After an attack on a school in January, on of the group's official spokesperson denied involvement but another claimed responsibility.

At the time, a faction commander said the group was targeting youngsters who were being "prepared" for government service and would continue to target education institutions.

After this most recent attack, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has also said it will continue its insurgency.

"This is a message to the Pakistani prime minister that we have arrived in Punjab," a spokesman said.

Pakistan's army chief, General Raheel Sharif, has convened an emergency meeting of the country's intelligence agencies to begin to track down those responsible for the attacks.

Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the Punjab government, urged people to donate blood, saying many of the wounded are in a critical condition.
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Pakistan will launch a paramilitary crackdown on Islamist militants in Punjab, the countrys richest and most populous province, after an Easter Day bombing killed 70 people in the provincial capital, Lahore, officials said yesterday.

Sundays suicide bombing at a public park was claimed by the Pakistani Talibans Jamaat-ur-Ahrar faction, which once declared loyalty to Isis. The group said it was targeting Christians even though the majority of those killed were Muslims.

The brutality of the attack, Jamaat-ur-Ahrars fifth bombing since December, reflects the movements attempts to raise its profile among Pakistans increasingly fractured Islamist militants.

Pakistans Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks. After a meeting with his security officials yesterday, he called those responsible for the Lahore attack cowards and pledged to defeat the extremist mindset. He also cancelled a planned trip to the UK.

In the capital, Islamabad, extremists demonstrated for a second day outside parliament and other key buildings in the city centre. They set cars on fire, demanding that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The army, which was deployed on Sunday to contain the rioters, remained on the streets.

In recent weeks, Pakistans Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstrations to protest against what they say is Mr Sharifs pro-Western stance. They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women

Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Show all 9 1 /9 Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Pakistani security officials inspect the scene of a suicide bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Pakistani rescue workers remove a dead body from the site of bomb explosion in a park in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A Pakistani injured man from a bomb blast talks on his cell phone at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A woman weeps for her injured family members as she tries to speak to security at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts An injured Pakistani child victim of a suicide blast rests in a hospital in Lahore Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts An injured Pakistani child victim of a suicide blast rests in a hospital in Lahore Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A woman injured in the bomb blast is comforted by a family member at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Most of the dead and injured are women and children, officials say Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts The bomb reportedly exploded next to children's swings and rides as families were leaving the park this evening

At least 29 children enjoying an Easter weekend outing were among those killed when the suicide bomber struck in a busy park in the eastern city of Lahore, the power base of Mr Sharif. Pakistan is a majority-Muslim state but has a Christian population of more than two million.

At the Vatican in Rome, Pope Francis condemned the attack as hideous and demanded that Pakistani authorities protect religious minorities.

It was Pakistans deadliest attack since the December 2014 massacre of 134 school children at a military-run academy in the city of Peshawar that prompted a government crackdown on Islamist militancy.

Security and government officials said that the decision had been made to launch a full-scale paramilitary Rangers operation, giving them powers to conduct raids and interrogate suspects in the same way as they have been in the southern city of Karachi for more than two years. The move, which has not yet been formally announced, represents the civilian government again granting special powers to the military to fight Islamist militants.

Jamaat-ur-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack late on Sunday night and issued a direct challenge to the government.

Reuters, AP
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In 2011, Salmaan Taseer, the governor of Punjab, was slain by his own police bodyguard, Mumtaz Qadri.

Taseer had been defending the rights of Aasia Bibi, a poor Christian farmhand, dubiously accused of blasphemy.

For Qadri, Taseers stand represented an act of blasphemy itself. The punishment for blasphemy, Qadri sneered, as he was carted away to jail by his police colleagues, is death.

Two months later, unknown assailants near his mothers home in Islamabad killed Shahbaz Bhatti, the only Christian member of the then Pakistani cabinet.

Four months after that, another Shahbaz  Taseers third son  was targeted by militants who kidnapped him near his home in Lahore. Meanwhile, for large numbers of vocal Islamists, Qadri was hailed as a hero, with his supporters constantly clamouring for his release.

A few weeks ago, things changed. Qadri was quietly executed for murder. In terms of the law, the decision was easy: he had proudly confessed to his crime. But politically, the judges who passed the verdict exhibited great bravery. One of them even had to flee, of all places, to Saudi Arabia to find safety.

A couple days later, Shahbaz Taseer was discovered, deep inside Pakistans southwestern Baluchistan province. Things started to look up for Pakistan and the rule of law.

Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Show all 9 1 /9 Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Pakistani security officials inspect the scene of a suicide bomb attack in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Pakistani rescue workers remove a dead body from the site of bomb explosion in a park in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A Pakistani injured man from a bomb blast talks on his cell phone at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A woman weeps for her injured family members as she tries to speak to security at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts An injured Pakistani child victim of a suicide blast rests in a hospital in Lahore Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts An injured Pakistani child victim of a suicide blast rests in a hospital in Lahore Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts A woman injured in the bomb blast is comforted by a family member at a local hospital in Lahore, Pakistan Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts Most of the dead and injured are women and children, officials say Lahore Blasts kill at least 70 Lahore blasts The bomb reportedly exploded next to children's swings and rides as families were leaving the park this evening

Qadris supporters werent to be tamed though. Tens of thousands thronged Rawalpindi for his funeral. Fearful of the reaction, the government ordered schools closed and urged television channels to not cover the event. Since then, the supporters rage remains undimmed. They want Qadri declared a martyr, and they want Christian prisoners accused of blasphemy executed.

Recommended Read more Dozens of children and mothers among victims of Lahore bombing

The attackers who bombed Lahore represent a different challenge. They belong to Jamaat ul-Ahrar, a vicious offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban. These jihadists  who favour a more literal and more violent creed - have little sympathy with Qadris mystical Barelvi supporters. In the past, the Taliban has bombed the very shrines that the Barelvis revere. The only things they seem to have in common are their chosen enemies.

Now, however, they have both  the jihadists and the Barelvis  made Pakistans Christians and the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif their targets of opportunity. Taking responsibility for the blast, a spokesman for Jamaat ul-Ahrar said they targeted Lahore, the capital of Punjab, because it is Mr Sharifs power base.

Punjab is also the one province that has remained untouched by counterterrorist operations in Pakistan. Unlike the tribal areas, the sledgehammer of military action will be of little use there. Taking on militants seeded across the south of the province will require a more delicate approach, one that only the civilians can lead.

Even as the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar spokesman boasted of his groups massacre in Lahore, Qadris supporters were laying siege to the seat of government in Islamabad. They attacked the metro bus stations Sharifs government had recently built, and remain camped out in the red zone just in front of the governments main buildings.

Mr Sharif is now faced with a series of very difficult challenges. He must protect Pakistans Christians and other religious minorities. He will have to discard his reluctance to take on militant groups based in Punjab. And he will have to assert the states resolve to uphold the rule of law, without capitulating to pressure from a religious mob.
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A teenage girl who vanished two years ago on her way home from school is back with her family after escaping from her captors Tokyo apartment.

Her alleged kidnapper, Kabu Terauchi, is being treated in hospital after trying to kill himself with a box cutter, according to Japanese media reports.

Terauchi was reportedly found wandering near a forest south-west of Tokyo, bleeding from a self-inflicted neck wound. Police are waiting to formally arrest him once he has recovered.

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Ana Saito, then 15, went missing shortly after she left her secondary school on 10 March, 2014. A note was left in the family postbox the following day, asking her parents not to look for her, according to the Asahi newspaper.

Saito has told police she was held in at least two apartments and that she had been unable to flee because she was kept under close watch. She escaped on Sunday when Terauchi went to buy a mobile phone and left the apartment door unlocked, says Kyodo News.

Terauchis Facebook page shows him posing inside the cockpit of a small plane and says he trained as a pilot in California. The Asahi says he graduated this month from the engineering department of Chiba University, one of Japans better higher-education institutions.

He allegedly tricked the girl by telling her that her parents were divorcing and offering to escort her to a lawyers office. Her family did not believe her letter and immediately reported her disappearance to the police.

Media reports say Terauchi moved his captor several times before they ended up at a small flat in a busy residential area of Higashi-Nakano in Tokyo. The first-floor flat was in a typically crammed Tokyo apartment building, with neighbours on either side and above, raising questions about why nobody sounded the alarm. The flat door could apparently open from the inside.

Television pictures showed investigators carrying a large trunk out of the flat. Reporters have speculated that Terauchi used the trunk to conceal and move Saito around the city. Neighbours told reporters that they had talked to Terauchi and found nothing suspicious about him. There were no reports of fights or loud noises from inside the flat.

Saito reportedly fled on Sunday and called police from a public telephone about 200 metres away. She told them she had been snatched from outside her home in Saitama, north of Tokyo and was pushed into a car.

The case bears superficial resemblance to another infamous Tokyo abduction. In 2000, 19-year-old Fusako Sano, who had vanished nine years earlier, turned up alive in the home of a mentally disturbed unemployed man, Nobuyuki Sato. Until her freedom, Sano had not set foot outside the home, which was a few hundred metres from a police box. Satos mother lived in the same home and insisted she knew nothing about the abduction because she was too afraid of her son to approach him.

Sato is serving out a 14-year sentence. The case led to heavy criticism of the police because they had missed clues to Satos identity.
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Muslim women were confronted and intimidated by right-wing protesters disrupted a peace vigil dedicated to victims of the Brussels attacks.

The women were singled out by members of a group of 400 demonstrators at an initially peaceful gathering held to remember the victims of last week's terror attacks in the Belgian capital.

As members of the public laid floral tributes to the victims of Tuesday's attacks at a makeshift memorial, police clashed with the group, which was seen making Nazi salutes and confronting ethnic minority groups including women, according to the BBC.

Adrian Liston, who was present at the vigil, told the BBC that the memorial had been disrupted by a "bunch of skinheads" who had turned up "in force".

"They marched into the square and started a major confrontation with the peace protesters," he added.

Black-clad protesters shout slogans during the peace vigil (AP)

On Monday, the death toll rose to 35, not including the three suicide bombers, officials confirmed.

The additional deaths include two more American citizens, bringing the total number of US citizens killed in the attack to four.

Belgium's crisis centre website said there were 35 victims, but said only 28 of the victims had been formally identified.

The foreigners killed were British, Chinese, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Swedish and US nationals.

The formal "march against fear" through the city was cancelled by Belgian police, as they felt they could not ensure the safety of the crowds and wanted to focus on tracking down people involved in the attacks.

But significant police resources were eventually drawn to the Place de la Bourse, where a peaceful crowd containing Muslims and non-Muslims was confronted by around 400 fascists.

They were seen picking out Muslim women from the crowd at the vigil and singling them out for aggressive, confrontational abuse.

The group carried a banner identifying themselves as "Casuals Against Terrorism".

Many of the men wore balaclavas or 'Anonymous' masks, and they chanted nationalist, anti-immigrant and anti-Isis slogans.

They also made Nazi salutes and waved flares in the air, before being dispersed by riot police using truck-mounted water cannons.

Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Show all 27 1 /27 Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Wreaths of flowers in front of an entrance of the Maalbeek subway station in Brussels in homage to the victims of a terrorist attack. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Wreaths of flowers in front of an entrance of the Maalbeek subway station in Brussels in homage to the victims of a terrorist attack. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A building illuminated with the Belgian flag colours and a heart in Brussels, two days after suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on March 22 in Zaventem airport and subway Maelbeek. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A picture taken on 24 March, 2016 on place de la Bourse in Brussels, shows drawings and a candle, two days after suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on March 22 in Zaventem airport and Brussels subway Maelbeek Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Candles are displayed in tribute to the Brussels attacks victims on 24 March, 2016 on place de la Bourse in Brussels, two days after the suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on 22 March. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A mourner lights a candle in Trafalgar Square during a candlelit vigil in support of the victims of the recent terror attacks in Brussels. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels airport workers pay tribute to the victims near Zaventem Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Activists light candles and hold placards to condemn the terrorist attacks in Belgium, during a gathering in Manila, Philippines Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A banner for the victims of the bombings reads "I am Brussels" at the Place de la Bourse in the center of Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, left front center, stands with front row, left to right, French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, Belgium's King Philippe, Belgium's Queen Mathilde and Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel as well as members of the European Commission during a minute of silence at EU headquarters in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims People join hands in solidarity near the former stock exchange following the bomb attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Belgium flags ornate the facade of the Paris Town Hall Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A woman embraces her children at The Place de la Bourse as she pays her respects to victims of the terrorists attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Belgian and European Union flags fly at half mast following the bomb attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Candles in the colors of the Belgian national flag are lit inside the Belgian embassy in Madrid, a day after the deadly suicide attacks on the Brussels airport and its subway system Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Servicemen of Azov, Ukrainian volunteers battalion, hold torches in front of floral tributes during a ceremony in front of the Belgian embassy in Kiev, in tribute to the victims of Brussels attacks Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A refugee boy holds up a placard reading "Sorry for Brussels" at a refugee camp near the Greek-Macedonian border Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People light candles in tribute to victims at a makeshift memorial at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A woman holds a drawing by French cartoonist Plantu picturing a character made of a French flag consoling another made of the Belgian flag, in front of the Hotel de Ville in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes The colours of the Belgian flag are projected on to (clockwise from top left) the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the town council building in Belgrade, Rome's Campidoglio and the Royal Palace at Dam Square in Amsterdam Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Candles are lit in tribute to the victims, at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A woman holds a placard reading "Paris hearts Belgium, How much time will it take us to open our eyes and say STOP, Today our hearts are broken, Open your eyes to change the future" at the Place de la Republique in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People gather to pay a tribute to victims of terrorist attacks in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People write messages on the ground at Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A bouquet of flowers in the Belgian national colours with a card reading 'To our neighbours, to our friends, to our Belgian brothers - an indignant Parisian' is seen next to a French national flag at the fence of the Belgian embassy in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Solidarity messages are written in chalk outside the stock exchange in Brussels AP Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Messages and floral tributes outside the Brussels stock exchange AP

AFP report that around 10 of the far-right protestors were arrested.
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The only man arrested and charged by prosecutors over the Brussels airport bombings has been released by Belgian police due to a lack of evidence.

Named by local media reports as Faycal Cheffou, police said the suspect - who is also known as "the man in the hat" because of his appearance in CCTV footage  is not the man suspected of being the mystery third bomber.

Police said he had none of the links to the Paris attacks that characterised the other three men who died carrying out last Tuesday's attacks and have been identified.

Prosecutors had been attempting to link Cheffou to the bombings by DNA evidence from the scene, but have now let him go saying their suspicions had not been substantiated.

Earlier, officials released new CCTV footage of the suspect seen walking with the two airport bombers, Ibrahim el Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui, moments before the attack.

Airport CCTV shows the three suspects; Faycal Cheffou was initially thought to be the man on the right (Belgian Federal Police ) (Belgian Federal Police)

Authorities released the video in the hope of identifying the man on the right, seen wearing light-coloured clothing and a black hat.

He was pushing a trolley carrying a suitcase containing what police said was the largest bomb of the three but it failed to detonate.

His two accomplices died when their devices exploded in the airport terminal shortly after 8am killing 11 people and wounding 100 more.

Soon after, another suicide bomber attacked the Maalbeek metro station in the centre of the city killing another 20 people. He has been identified as Khalid El Bakraoui, Ibrahim's brother.

On Monday, Belgian authorities announced a further four people had died in hospital following the attacks.

Brussels attacks victims Show all 11 1 /11 Brussels attacks victims Brussels attacks victims CONFIRMED DEAD: Adelma Tapia Ruiz Ms Tapia, 37, was from Peru and had lived in Brussels for six years. She was at the airport with her husband, Christophe Delcambe, and their twin four-year-old daughters, Maureen and Alondra. They were checking in to fly to New York to visit Ms Ruizs sisters when the blast struck. The death of Ms Tapia was confirmed by the Peruvian Ministry for Foreign Affairs and her brother Fernando Tapia Coral has told Peruvian radio that she had planned to return to Peru later this year. In a Facebook post, Mr Tapia called her death incomprehensible in a Facebook post. Her husband and children survived, but it has been reported that one of her daughters was injured by debris Brussels attacks victims CONFIRMED DEAD: Leopold Hecht Mr Hecht was a young Belgian student working towards a qualification in law at Saint-Louis University in Brussels. The university confirmed in a Facebook post that he was one of the victims of the Maelbeek metro bombing Brussels attacks victims CONFIRMED DEAD: Oliver Delespesse Mr Delespesse, 36, was confirmed dead in the metro bombing by his employers Wallonie Bruxelles Federation, an organisation which represents French speakers in the region. One of his colleagues, Olivier Dradin posted a tribute on Facebook: "I wanted to pay tribute to him and to his family and to all the other victims" Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Sasha Pinczowski A brother and sister from New York, who were at Zaventem to fly back to the US at the time of the blasts, are also missing. Sascha and Alexander Pinczowski were on the phone to their family when the phone went dead, according to Dutch media. Ms Pinczowski studied business and had previously completed an internship at the UN Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Alexander Pinczowski A brother and sister from New York, who were at Zaventem to fly back to the US at the time of the blasts, are also missing. Sascha and Alexander Pinczowski were on the phone to their family when the phone went dead, according to Dutch media. Ms Pinczowski studied business and had previously completed an internship at the UN Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Aline Bastin Ms Bastin, 29, a former employee of the European Chemical Industry Council, was on the metro at the time of the attacks. Her friends have launched an appeal on Facebook for news of her whereabouts Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Raghavendran Ganesan Mr Ganesans brother has set up an appeal for information on the whereabouts of his sibling, who was on the metro at the time of the attacks. He wrote on Facebook that he had spoken to the Indian embassy, who were still searching for Mr Ganesan Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Sabrina Fazal There has not been word of Ms Fazal, a 25-year-old Belgian student, since yesterday morning. She would have been on the metro at the time of the attacks, on the way to the Haute Ecole Galilee in central Brussels, where she is studying Brussels attacks victims MISSING: David Dixon The family of Mr Dixon, a computer programmer from Nottingham, has not heard from him since he left for work yesterday morning. He is believed to have been on the metro at the time of the blast. Its just waiting, which is heartbreaking, the sister of Charlotte Sutcliffe, Mr Dixons partner, told Radio 4s Today program. His friend Simon Harley-Jones told the BBC that Ms Sutcliffe had been driving around hospitals in the hope of finding him Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Bart Migom Mr Migom, 21, was on his way to Athens, but never arrived. He was texting his girlfriend, Emily Eisenman, from the train to Brussels airport however she haven't heard from him since the attacks. His cell phone rings, she said but there is no answer Brussels attacks victims MISSING: Justin and Stephanie Shults An American couple who lived in Brussels are among the missing, their family have confirmed. Justin and Stephanie had just dropped Stephanies mother, Carolyn Moore, off at the Brussels Airport when the blasts occurred. Mrs Moore, survived the attack, but the couple has not been found

Prosecutors have charged three more people with participating in a terrorist group after a series of raids following bomb attacks on Brussels airport and a metro train last week.

In a statement on Monday, the federal prosecutors named the three charged as Yassine A, Mohamed B and Aboubaker O, adding they could not give further information about them at this stage.

On Sunday, they had announced they were holding four people following 13 new raids in and around Brussels and Antwerp.

Dutch authorities arrested a man in Rotterdam after a request by French authorities. They said they plan to extradite him to France to face charges in relation to an alleged foiled attempt to launch an attack on Paris. Isis has claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was revenge for Belgiums role in air strikes against the terror groups position in Syria and Iraq.

Timeline of arrests

18 March, Salah Abdeslam: Arrested in Molenbeek, a now notorious district of Brussels linked to many terrorist suspects, Abdeslam was charged with terrorist murder for Novembers Paris attacks.

18 March, Amine Choukri: Also charged with terrorist murder over Paris. Real name not yet known. Linked to Abdeslam by German police.

24 March, Facyal C: Apprehended in central Brussels. (Released on 28 March due to lack of evidence)

25 March, Rabah N: Charged in relation to an alleged foiled attempt to launch a terrorist attack on Paris.

24 March, Aboubakar A: Apprehended by police in a car in Brussels, and charged with terrorism-related activities.

25 March, Abderamane A: Was jailed for seven years in 2005 in France after playing a part in the assassination of an Afghan commander in 2001. Shot last week at a tram stop in the Schaerbeek area of Brussels.

27 March, Yassine A, Mohamed B and Aboubaker O: Apprehended during raids in at 13 addresses across Brussels on Sunday.
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At least eight suspects believed to have links to the Isis attacks on Paris and Brussels are reportedly being hunted by European security agencies.

An 11-page bulletin circulated among European law enforcement agencies and leaked to CNN says the men are likely to be in either Europe or Syria.

All but one of them is believed to have links to either Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the ringleader of the Paris attacks, or Salah Abdeslam, the prime surviving suspect apprehended by anti-terror police during a raid in Molenbeek on 18 March.

On Sunday, the German newspaper Die Welt am Sontagg cited security sources also claiming eight suspects were being hunted. Most of them are thought to be either French or Belgian citizens.

The security documents suggest three suspects were residents or spent some time in the Netherlands, Germany and Sweden.

CNN says it has been given the identities of two of the eight men - Naim al Hamed and Yoni Patric Mayne - from the documents, which were circulated on 23 March.

Hamed, as he is known on his identity papers, is wanted in connection with the Brussels attacks. The Syrian national is suspected to have travelled to Europe with a man known as Monir Ahmed Alaaj in September.

Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Show all 27 1 /27 Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Wreaths of flowers in front of an entrance of the Maalbeek subway station in Brussels in homage to the victims of a terrorist attack. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Wreaths of flowers in front of an entrance of the Maalbeek subway station in Brussels in homage to the victims of a terrorist attack. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A building illuminated with the Belgian flag colours and a heart in Brussels, two days after suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on March 22 in Zaventem airport and subway Maelbeek. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A picture taken on 24 March, 2016 on place de la Bourse in Brussels, shows drawings and a candle, two days after suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on March 22 in Zaventem airport and Brussels subway Maelbeek Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Candles are displayed in tribute to the Brussels attacks victims on 24 March, 2016 on place de la Bourse in Brussels, two days after the suicide bombing attacks of terrorists on 22 March. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A mourner lights a candle in Trafalgar Square during a candlelit vigil in support of the victims of the recent terror attacks in Brussels. Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels airport workers pay tribute to the victims near Zaventem Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Activists light candles and hold placards to condemn the terrorist attacks in Belgium, during a gathering in Manila, Philippines Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A banner for the victims of the bombings reads "I am Brussels" at the Place de la Bourse in the center of Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, left front center, stands with front row, left to right, French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, Belgium's King Philippe, Belgium's Queen Mathilde and Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel as well as members of the European Commission during a minute of silence at EU headquarters in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims People join hands in solidarity near the former stock exchange following the bomb attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Belgium flags ornate the facade of the Paris Town Hall Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A woman embraces her children at The Place de la Bourse as she pays her respects to victims of the terrorists attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Belgian and European Union flags fly at half mast following the bomb attacks in Brussels Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Candles in the colors of the Belgian national flag are lit inside the Belgian embassy in Madrid, a day after the deadly suicide attacks on the Brussels airport and its subway system Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Servicemen of Azov, Ukrainian volunteers battalion, hold torches in front of floral tributes during a ceremony in front of the Belgian embassy in Kiev, in tribute to the victims of Brussels attacks Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims A refugee boy holds up a placard reading "Sorry for Brussels" at a refugee camp near the Greek-Macedonian border Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People light candles in tribute to victims at a makeshift memorial at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A woman holds a drawing by French cartoonist Plantu picturing a character made of a French flag consoling another made of the Belgian flag, in front of the Hotel de Ville in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes The colours of the Belgian flag are projected on to (clockwise from top left) the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the town council building in Belgrade, Rome's Campidoglio and the Royal Palace at Dam Square in Amsterdam Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Candles are lit in tribute to the victims, at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A woman holds a placard reading "Paris hearts Belgium, How much time will it take us to open our eyes and say STOP, Today our hearts are broken, Open your eyes to change the future" at the Place de la Republique in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People gather to pay a tribute to victims of terrorist attacks in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes People write messages on the ground at Place de la Bourse in Brussels Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes A bouquet of flowers in the Belgian national colours with a card reading 'To our neighbours, to our friends, to our Belgian brothers - an indignant Parisian' is seen next to a French national flag at the fence of the Belgian embassy in Paris Getty Images Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Solidarity messages are written in chalk outside the stock exchange in Brussels AP Brussels attacks: tributes are paid to the victims Brussels tributes Messages and floral tributes outside the Brussels stock exchange AP

The man known as "Alaaj" was arrested with Salah Abdeslam in Molenbeek after their hiding place in the Forest district of Brussels was discovered by police.

Yoni Patric Mayne, a Belgian-Malian who used to work in a video shop in Brussels, is thought to have links with Belgian-born Abaaoud.

Intelligence agencies believe the two men travelled together to Syria in 2014.

The revelations come as Belgian police released CCTV footage of the third attacker at Zaventem airport, who fled the scene when his bomb did not explode.

Authorities have issued the video in the hope of identifying the man, who was light-coloured clothing and a black hat.

He was pushing a trolley carrying the suitcase containing what police said was the largest bomb of the three but which failed to detonate.

His two accomplices died when their devices detonated in the airport terminal shortly after 8am local time, killing 11 people and wounding 100 more.

Soon after, another suicide bomber detonated at the Maalbeek metro station in the centre of the city killing another 20 people.

On Monday, Belgian authorities announced a further four people had died in hospital following the attacks, taking the total number killed to 35.

The death toll does not include the three attackers.

Five men have been arrested following the attacks on 22 March.

Belgium's Health Minister Maggie de Block tweeted on Monday: "Four patients deceased in hospital. Medical teams did all possible. Total victims: 35. Courage to all the families."
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Environmental campaigners are taking legal action against Europes largest marine park after many of its animals, including orca whales, were killed in a recent storm.

Whales, sharks, sea lions and turtles died at Antibes Marineland after bad weather hit the Cote dAzur on Frances Mediterranean coast in October, swamping the park with mud, AFP reports.

Valetin, a 19-year-old orca whale died of internal injuries a week after the storm left the park without electricity to pump in clean water.

International NGO, Sea Shepherd, has lodged a legal complaint against Antibes Marineland, claiming the park mistreats its animals and has polluted the local environment.

The announcement came as at least 300 people attended a protest outside the park on Sunday, just a week after it re-opened following the storm damage, France Blue Azure reports.

Protestors argued the enclosures remain inadequate for animals and the marine life should not have been in danger from the storm in the first place.

Sea Shepherds founder, Paul Watson, told reporters: We are against the keeping of orca whales in captivity because it is simply not where they should be.

Marineland have denied allegations of mistreatment. The park said in a statement: The conditions of well-being of marine mammals are carefully and strictly controlled by several organisations, as well as European and international regulations.

The park's new director, Arnaud Palu, told ITele, Marineland increases public awareness of marine life, by allowing people to see the animals in the flesh.

Sea Shepherd expects the first hearing against the park to take place in September.

The park previously underwent a preliminary investigation following complaints of animal cruelty by three French NGOs.

There has been a global backlash against keeping marine life in captivity following the 2013 release of Blackfish, an influential expose of orca captivity at SeaWorld in the US.

Earlier this month, SeaWorld announced it is ending its controversial orca breeding programme, meaning the 24 killer whales currently at the company's theme parks in California, Texas and Florida will be the last generation of orcas at the venues.
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Isis has advanced plans to carry out a terror attack heavily targeting Jewish children in Turkey, according to intelligence officials.

Sky News reports that six operatives from the terror group, arrested in the Turkish city of Gaziantep last week, revealed information about an imminent attack.

Istanbuls synagogue in Beyoglu is understood to be the most probable target of the allegedly impending attacks, which has a community centre and school attached to it.

Kindergartens, schools and youth centres for Jewish children are at the centre of the plans, according to reports.

 Turkey blames ISIL for Istanbul attack

An intelligence source told Sky News, This is a more than credible threat. This is an active plot, adding the information gathered from the operatives indicated an imminent attack that could be in the next 24 hours or next few days.

The source said that in response to the threat, intensive security measures were being put in place, including undercover and covert round-the-clock terror measures.

The threat comes after a suicide bomber killed four foreign tourists in a busy shopping area of Istanbul on 19 March.

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

Turkey has identified the bomber as Turkish citizen Mehmet Ozturk and said he had links to the so-called Islamic State group.

Two American-Israelis, another Israeli and an Iranian were among the dead.

Isis has committed atrocities in Turkey at an increasing rate over the past year as the county continues military operations in Kurdish areas in the south east as the Syrian war rages over the border.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called to step up attacks on the terror group after a suicide attack on the border town of Suruc killed 28 people in July last year.
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A Russian doctor who was caught on CCTV killing a drunk patient with a single punch has been sentenced to nine years in prison.

Dr Ilya Zelendinov, from the city of Belgrod, can be seen in the footage punching a patient in the head, making him fall to the floor.

The patient, identified as Yebgeniy Bakhtin, suffered a brain haemorrhage and died following the attack.

The video was uploaded online and went viral in December 2015, being broadcast on national news.

In it, Zelendov can be seen bursting into a hospital room and grabbing the patient, dragging him into another room.

A man tries to prevent the attack, but Zelendov beats him repeatedly in the stomach before turning round and punching Bakhtin.

A spokesperson for the Belgorod court reportedly told AFP that Zelendinov was sentenced to a jail term of nine years and two months on Thursday and has had his medical licence suspended.
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Drone footage taken over the Syrian city of Palmyra after regime forces recaptured it from Isis shows the devastation created by years of fighting, Russian air strikes and deliberate vandalism by militants.

Syrian government forces, working in tandem with Russian air strikes, took the city back from Isis on Sunday.

From the air, the cityscape appears almost entirely deserted. Prior to Isis over-running the city, the population of the town was a little under 200,000. Up to a quarter of those were refugees already displaced from other cities.

But once Isis took the city over, all but 5,000 of its residents fled: some went to Raqqa and some into the surrounding countryside, while those who were able travelled to Turkey or deep into regime-controlled areas.

Those who remained were either sympathetic to Isis' Islamist project, or too poor to flee the city.

The Temple of Bel was a 2000-year-old Mesopotamian place of worship, considered one of the best-preserved ruins in the region, while the Arch of Triumph was a secular structure dating from the same era. Another World Heritage Site in the city was the Temple of Baalshamin, parts of which were up to 2,200 years old.

All three are absent from the footage, having been symbolically blown up or otherwise destroyed by Isis last year. Since the city's recapture, Syrian Director of Antiquities Maamoun Abdelkarim has said the buildings will be rebuilt using their surviving ruins.

These absences aside, the city's historic ruins appear relatively unscathed. Still standing is an ancient amphitheatre where Isis shot many of their execution videos.

Some of the footage is shot by the Russian TV channel Ru-RTR, and some by the Syrian Military Media Centre.

Palmyra is known as the "Pearl of the Desert".
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The ancient city of Palmyra  once the capital of an empire, a symbol of resistance to Imperial Rome and, for many centuries, an icon of international trade and prosperity  once again finds itself at the heart of world events.

The iconoclasts of Isis have been driven out of this vast Unesco World Heritage site  and archaeologists are about to assess the damage. Preliminary information suggests that less of the ancient ruined city has been damaged and destroyed by Isis than previously feared.

However, two major temples  those of Bel and Baal Shamin  appear to have been completely destroyed. Certainly aerial photographs of the former suggest that the main temple building has been totally erased. However, its not yet clear where the rubble has been taken to  so potentially, it may be that some elements can be recovered. Also destroyed are a series of ancient tombs.

The monumental stone blocks of the great Roman triumphal arch, toppled by Isis, appear to be intact  and it may well be possible for conservators to eventually re-erect it. The ancient citys spectacular Roman theatre has not been destroyed  probably because Isis used it for public executions. Various other structures  including several ruined temples also appear not to have been targeted by the organisation.

The once vibrant museum is now full of empty displays after the destruction of artefacts

Syrias head of antiquities and museums, Maamoun Abdul-Karim, told the Associated Press that a team from his department will head to Palmyra to estimate the losses. That will only happen, however, once bomb squads finish removing explosives planted by the extremists before they lost the town.

Its campaign of destruction was methodical and centrally planned. A special Isis unit was apparently tasked with selecting targets and implementing the destruction.

However, although the Isis destruction of parts of Palmyra has attracted worldwide attention, it represents only a small percentage of the total cultural destruction wrought so far by the organisation.

Recommended Read more Drone footage of devastated Palmyra after Syrian recapture from Isis

In Iraqi, Syria and Libya, Isis has systematically destroyed more than 30 major historic churches, mosques and tombs  some of which date as far back as the seventh century. Muslim monuments damaged have included some Sunni as well as Shia ones.

Ancient Assyrian sites (especially large pagan statues) have also been targeted by Isis. The organisations main motivation appears to be a disapproval of any religious sculptures of any sort  and of religious movements that they consider heretical. It also strongly disapprove of paganism, monumental tombs of any sort  and of all figurative religious decoration.

The Arc de Troimphe (Triumph's Arc) prior to being destroyed by Islamic State (IS) group jihadists in October 2015 and the remains of the iconic structure after government troops recaptured the ancient city

In its zeal, it is, of course, merely the latest in a long global succession of destroyers of cultural heritage. As far back as the 14th century BC, religious radicals and traditionalists in ancient Egypt sought to damage or destroy iconography and even temples they did not approve of.

In the first century AD, pagan Rome deliberately destroyed the great Jewish Temple in Jerusalem  and in the late fourth century AD, Rome (by then Christian) damaged and destroyed many pagan temples.

In 8th and 15th century northern India, Muslim rulers destroyed Hindu temples  and in 16th century Europe, Protestant radicals destroyed vast quantities of Catholic art.

In what is now Saudi Arabia, some important religious monuments, including mosques, have been demolished at various stages over the past 200 years.

Buddhist cultural heritage has also suffered  at the hands of fundamentalist Christians in South Korea and at the hands of the Taliban, which destroyed the vast 53 metre tall statue of Buddha at Bamiyan in Afghanistan in 2001. Palmyra is tragically only the latest victim of religious iconoclasm.

But the ancient city has has suffered far worse in the past  and has, on each occasion, quite literally risen from the ashes and the debris of what people at the time thought was terminal oblivion. In 273 AD, the city rebelled against Rome and was utterly destroyed as a brutal punishment. But it was eventually rebuilt.

The iconic Temple of Bel prior to being blown up by Islamic State (IS) group jihadists in September 2015 and the remains of the temple after Syrian troops recaptured the ancient site

Then in 1068 and 1089, it was again devastated  this time by massive earthquakes. Finally the Turco-Mongols under Tamerlane destroyed the city in 1400. But people continued to live there are among the ruins until the early 20th century.

Today the modern successor to Palmyra  nearby Tadmor, which suffered much under Isis occupation - continues a tradition of human settlement and achievement that started almost 10,000 years ago. Hopefully, despite the ravages of time and Isis, Palmyra will continue to amaze the world for centuries to come.

Amr al-Azm, a former Syrian antiquities official, said the world was already aware of the damage to the archaeological site, but was only now seeing the destruction wrought inside the Palmyra museum. What was unfortunate really was the damage inside the museum, the many of the pieces that have not been saved, that they [Damascus officials] did not have time or the ability to move, he said. It seems that a significant amount of damage was inflicted on them.

We can renovate them, he said. Yes, we lost part of the original but we didnt totally lose them.
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The Iranian Supreme Court has sentenced a man to have his eye gouged out after blinding another man in a street fight.

The 28-year-old, identified only as Saman, was convicted under Irans strict retribution laws after fighting in the street with his then 25-year-old victim when he was 23.

According to Iran Human Rights, a Norway-based NGO, Saman claimed he had unintentionally blinded the man with a metal rod.

It is currently unknown when the sentence is due to be carried out.

Iran executes the second highest number of people in the world after China. Chart: Statista

Iran, which is a theocracy ultimately controlled by a group of religious clerics, uses a strict interpretation of sharia law of an eye for eye.

Last year, a man convicted of attacking another man with acid - blinding and disfiguring him for life in the city of Qoms - was sedated and had his left eye gouged out.

The victim - who has the ultimate say over whether the sentence will be carried out - decided to suspend his sentences for both eyes to be removed for six months.

He was also forced to pay a fine and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

New York protests against Iran nuclear deal Show all 10 1 /10 New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York A woman holds a poster as she takes part in a rally on Times Square in New York opposing the nuclear deal with Iran New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York An inflatable mushroom cloud stands among demonstrators during a rally apposing the nuclear deal with Iran New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York Protesters rally against the nuclear deal with Iran in Times Square New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York A member of the Neturei Karta Orthodox Jews sect is escorted away by New York City Police during a rally near Times Square to demand that Congress vote down the proposed US deal with Iran in New York New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York A woman shouts slogans during a rally against the nuclear deal with Iran in Times Square in New York New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York A protestor holds a placard during a demonstration and rally apposing the nuclear deal with Iran in Times Square New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York Some of several thousand protestors crowd into 7th Avenue at 42nd street as they demonstrate during a rally apposing the nuclear deal with Iran New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York A woman holds a placard as she joins several thousand other protestors to demonstrate during a rally apposing the nuclear deal with Iran New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York Protesters rallied against the Iran nuclear deal in New York's Times Square KENA BETANCUR/AFP/Getty Images New York protests against Iran nuclear deal New York Protestors shout slogans as they demonstrate during a rally apposing the nuclear deal with Iran

Since coming to power as a supposed moderate in 2013, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has presided over the execution of more than 1,800 people as well as public beatings, floggings and amputations.

In 2014, a Christian man was sentenced to having his lips burnt off with a cigarette for eating during daylight hours in the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

In June last year, authorities at the Central Prison in Mashhad, Khorasan Province, amputated four fingers from the right hands of two men sentenced for theft without anaesthetic, Amnesty International reports.

Despite reaching a deal to suspend its nuclear programme with six key Western nations - including the US - last year, Iran has shown no sign of giving more political or civil freedoms to its people.
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The ancient city of Palmyra is "like a city of ghosts" after Syrian government forces drove Isis militants from the strategic stronghold.

Residential neighbourhoods in the adjacent modern towns were found deserted. Residents told The Associated Press Isis had evacuated all of Palmyra's civilians to other territories under its control.

"It was like a city of ghosts, we did not see a single family in the town," one of the first journalists to see the liberated city told BBC Radio 4.

"It's not completely clear, but it's understood Isis forced the residents out of the town and forced them to flee with them."

Syrian government forces retook "complete control" of the city by Sunday, marking the biggest military defeat Isis has suffered so far.

Their forces were driven out by Syrian troops and Lebanese Hezbollah militiamen, backed by Russian air strikes.

Troops loyal to Bashar al-Assad celebrate on the edge of Palmyra (Reuters)

Syrian pro-government forces drive a tank on the outskirts of Palmyra during a military operation to retake the ancient city from Isis (Getty)

Over 400 Isis fighters were killed in the battle for the city, according to Rami Abdulrahman, the director of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Russian jets carried out 40 combat sorties around Palmyra on Sunday, striking 117 "terrorist targets" and killing 80 Isis fighters, according to Moscow's defence ministry.

Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Show all 10 1 /10 Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Graffiti on the ancient stones reads in Arabic Shooting without the permission of the chief is prohibited Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Damaged artefacts lay inside the museum of the historic city of Palmyra Reuters Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Syrian pro-government forces rest by Palmyra Citadel as they take control of the city from the hands of Isis Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The UNESCO world heritage site appears surprisingly intact after its recapture from the militant group Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Many had feared the ancient city would be destroyed following its capture by Isis in May Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Smoke billows from the Palmyra Citadel as Assads forces drive the Jihadist group from the city Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Palmyra is one of the most important cultural centers of the world Unesco says Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces Pro-government forces play football in the streets following the recapture of the city Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The extent of the destruction caused by Isis 10 month occupation of the city has yet to be fully realised Getty Palmyra recaptured by Syrian government forces Palmyra recaptured by Syrian pro-government forces The City Council of Palmyra building in ruins Reuters

When Isis took control of the Unesco World Heritage site last May, they destroyed two of its most elaborate temple buildings and a Roman triumphal archway. They also beheaded Khaled al-Asaad, the city's former head of antiquities, and hung his body on display.

The extent of the destruction remains unclear however, with initial footage on Syrian TV showing widespread rubble and shattered statues.

A sculpture of the Greek goddess Athena was shown decapitated, and the museum's basement appeared to have been dynamited, with broken statues littering the floor.

But Maamoun Abdulkarim, director of the museums and antiquities department in Damascus, said Palmyra's Great Colonnade had suffered only minor damage.

"We will rebuild what you have destroyed," he said, addressing Isis.

Syrian forces say they will use Palmyra as a base to "broaden operations" against Isis, particularly towards the extremist group's de facto capital, Raqqa, and the eastern city of Deir Ezzor.

Additional reporting by agencies
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The Palestinian government has asked the UN to investigate the deadly shooting of a wounded Palestinian as he lay on the ground by an Israeli soldier.

A request to launch a UN investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings has been lodged by Palestinian officials after the shooting was captured on video.

The Israeli military has detained the soldier while it investigates the incident.

Saeb Erekat, a Palestinian official, said that past Israeli investigations have failed to "serve justice" and that Israel has always been "rewarded with impunity."

The shooting came amid a six-month wave of Palestinian attacks that have killed 28 Israelis and two Americans.

Over the same time, at least 188 Palestinians have died by Israeli fire, yet Israel says most of those shot were attackers or died in clashes with Israeli forces.

The soldier seconds before appearing to fire the shot (YouTube/Btselem)

The Palestinians say the killings amount to extrajudicial slayings, while the shooting has divided public opinion within Israel.

Lt Col Peter Lerner, the lead Israel Defense Forces spokesperson, said a preliminary investigation found the soldier arrived on the scene some six minutes after the initial incident, and that the second shooting occurred several minutes after that.

"There was no apparent threat from the Palestinian that was incapacitated," he said.

Other Israelis say the soldier was acting in self-defence.

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A poll of 522 people found that 57 percent of Israeli Jews opposed arresting and investigating the soldier, according to Midgam Research and Consulting for Israeli Channel 2 TV News.

Several nationalistic lawmakers, including Naftali Bennett of the Jewish Home party, accused detractors of abandoning the soldier before he was given a fair hearing.

But Nahum Barnea, a veteran journalist with the Yediot Ahronot daily, said that "a new generation of vigilantes has risen up in our midst, Israelis seeking revenge.

"They regard cold-blooded murder as an act of heroism, and regard upholding the army's rules as defeatism," he wrote.

Associated Press
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A Saudi doctor, arrested for flying the rainbow pride flag above his home, has claimed he was unaware of the flags LGBT symbolism.

The man said he bought the flag online after one of his children found the colours pretty and had no idea it represented LGBT pride, CNN reports.

The Saudi religious police, or the Committee for Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, arrested the man after he raised the flag on a three metre pole above his home in Jeddah.

According to local media, the man was bailed after an investigation and agreed to remove the flag.

Homosexuality is illegal under Sharia law in Saudi Arabia and punishments for those engaging in same-sex relationships include chemical castration, imprisonment and even death.

In September, Saudia Arabia insisted the UN remove gay rights from the organisations Global Goals, claiming it was counter to Islamic law.

10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Show all 10 1 /10 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In October 2014, three lawyers, Dr Abdulrahman al-Subaihi, Bander al-Nogaithan and Abdulrahman al-Rumaih , were sentenced to up to eight years in prison for using Twitter to criticize the Ministry of Justice. AFP/Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In March 2015, Yemens Sunni President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi was forced into exile after a Shia-led insurgency. A Saudi Arabia-led coalition has responded with air strikes in order to reinstate Mr Hadi. It has since been accused of committing war crimes in the country. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Women who supported the Women2Drive campaign, launched in 2011 to challenge the ban on women driving vehicles, faced harassment and intimidation by the authorities. The government warned that women drivers would face arrest. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Members of the Kingdoms Shia minority, most of whom live in the oil-rich Eastern Province, continue to face discrimination that limits their access to government services and employment. Activists have received death sentences or long prison terms for their alleged participation in protests in 2011 and 2012. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses All public gatherings are prohibited under an order issued by the Interior Ministry in 2011. Those defy the ban face arrest, prosecution and imprisonment on charges such as inciting people against the authorities. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses In March 2014, the Interior Ministry stated that authorities had deported over 370,000 foreign migrants and that 18,000 others were in detention. Thousands of workers were returned to Somalia and other states where they were at risk of human rights abuses, with large numbers also returned to Yemen, in order to open more jobs to Saudi Arabians. Many migrants reported that prior to their deportation they had been packed into overcrowded makeshift detention facilities where they received little food and water and were abused by guards. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses The Saudi Arabian authorities continue to deny access to independent human rights organisations like Amnesty International, and they have been known to take punitive action, including through the courts, against activists and family members of victims who contact Amnesty. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Raif Badawi was sentenced to 1000 lashes and 10 years in prison for using his liberal blog to criticise Saudi Arabias clerics. He has already received 50 lashes, which have reportedly left him in poor health. Carsten Koall/Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Dawood al-Marhoon was arrested aged 17 for participating in an anti-government protest. After refusing to spy on his fellow protestors, he was tortured and forced to sign a blank document that would later contain his confession. At Dawoods trial, the prosecution requested death by crucifixion while refusing him a lawyer. Getty Images 10 examples of Saudi Arabia's human rights abuses Ali Mohammed al-Nimr was arrested in 2012 aged either 16 or 17 for participating in protests during the Arab spring. His sentence includes beheading and crucifixion. The international community has spoken out against the punishment and has called on Saudi Arabia to stop. He is the nephew of a prominent government dissident. Getty

The protest came from the Saudi Foreign Minister, Adel Al-Jubeir, who told the UN General Assembly that mentioning sex in the text, to us, means exactly male and female. Mentioning family means consisting of a married man and woman.

Faisal bin Hassan Trad, Saudi Arabias UN ambassador who was elected as chair of a panel of independent experts on the UN Human Rights Council, has previously said calls for the Kingdom to support rights for same-sex couples were unacceptable and a flagrant interference in its internal affairs.

Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia executed the 76th person to be put to death in the country this year.

The executions have been met with warnings from human rights campaigners who say the Kingdom is executing people at a frightening rate.

In an annual report to the UNs Human Rights Council, Juan Mendez, the Special Rapporteur on Torture, said it was becoming clear the escalating number of executions in the Kingdom amounted to torture and breached international law.
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Closed until further notice: the latest update from Brussels Airport shows the vulnerability of European aviation to terrorist attacks.

Six days after the attacks that claimed 28 lives on the citys Metro and at the airport, hopes for a swift restoration of normality have faded.

The police spent five days conducting forensic examinations in the departures hall where the airport blasts took place. They handed back the area on Sunday to allow a phased reintroduction of flights. But the airport management now says: The simple fact is that a restart in the short term is not possible in the devastated infrastructure.

In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Show all 30 1 /30 In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A man carries an injured person in Brussels Airport, after explosions ripped through the departure hall In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Travellers get to their feet in a smoke filled terminal at Brussels Airport after explosions In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A man is wounded in Brussels Airport in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A man speaks on a mobile phone in Brussels Airport, after the explosions ripped through the departure hall In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Belgian police officers detain a man at the Gare du Midi train station in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A police officer stands guard as people are evacuated from Brussels airport, after explosions rocked the facility in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People stand near Brussels airport after being evacuated following explosions that rocked the facility in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Crew and passengers are evacuated from Zaventem Bruxelles International Airport after an attack in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Passengers gather near Brussels airport in Zaventem, following its evacuation after blasts rocked the main terminal of Brussels airport In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Two women wounded in Brussels Airport in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Passengers and airport staff are evacuated from the terminal building after explosions at Brussels Airport in Zaventem near Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Passengers and airport staff are evacuated from the terminal building after explosions at Brussels Airport in Zaventem near Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Broken windows seen at the scene of explosions at Zaventem airport near Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People leave the scene of explosions at Zaventem airport near Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People are evacuated from the scene after two explosions were heard at Brussels Airport In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People wait outside of the Brussels Airport after evacuation In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People leave the airport area after explosions at Brussels Airport in Zaventem In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Passengers comfort each other as they are evacuated from the terminal building after explosions at Brussels Airport in Zaventem In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People react as they walk away from Brussels airport after explosions rocked the facility in Brussels In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Emergency services attend the scene of explosions at Zaventem airport near Brussels Reuters In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Injured people at the scene at Brussels Airport after two explosions were heard PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport The aftermath of the explosions at Brussels airport PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport People wait outside of the Zaventem airport after two explosions were heard PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Emergency services at the scene of explosions at Brussels Airport In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A view of the scene after the explosions at Brussels airport PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Emergency services at the scene of explosions at Zaventem airport near Brussels Reuters In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport The aftermath of the explosions at Brussels airport PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport The view of the Brussels airport after the explosion PA In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport Smoke is seen at Brussels airport in Brussels AP In pictures: Terror attacks at Brussels airport A photo shows cars on a blocked highway near Zaventem, Brussels National airport, after two explosions rocked the main hall of Brussels Airport Getty Images

It had been hoped that some flights would resume within a few days of the blast. but the scale of the damage, together with new security measures demanded by the Belgian authorities, are delaying the re-opening.

When the airport re-opens, passengers will have a very different experience. Damage to the check-in area means that temporary buildings will be used for check-in, ahead of the normal security search. There will be a heavy security presence monitoring travellers; Tuesday's attack took place in the check-in area, which the terrorists could access with their bombs without challenge.

Recommended Read more Brussels Airport to remain closed over Easter weekend

For passengers touching down at Brussels, procedures will be even more improvised. The airport says:  For arriving passengers, we are looking at a solution to take them by bus via a hangar.

Eight hundred airport and airline staff will take part in an exercise on Tuesday to test the temporary arrangements and infrastructure. But the airport stresses: The government authorities concerned must give their approval to the security system as well as to the partial recommencement of the airport activities.

New Brussels airport aftermath video shows total devastation inside terminal

Brussels Airport is the same scale as Manchester and Stansted, and in a normal year handles about 24m passengers. Many of them are transferring between other European airports and Africa, for which Brussels is a major hub.

Since the attack, flights originally intended for Brussels have been diverting to Antwerp, Charleroi and Liege in Belgium, as well as Lille in France. The Brussels Airlines long-haul network has been moved to Frankfurt and Zurich, to connect with Lufthansa and Swiss flights - both carriers are partners with Brussels Airlines.
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Sri Lanka's latest boutique hotel

The Fort Bazaar is a new 18-room boutique hotel in the Unesco-listed Galle Fort, on Sri Lankas south coast. The Sister to The Wallawwa, close to Colombo, the Fort Bazaar is set in a converted colonial building, with Moorish-inspired interiors, a spa and a restaurant headed up by Australian chef Neal Giles. teardrop-hotels.com

New flights to Cape Town

British Airways will launch non-stop flights from Gatwick to Cape Town later this year, adding to its existing service from Heathrow. The new route will operate three times a week from 24 November, with economy fares from 795 return. ba.com

Accessible travel guide

The sixth edition of the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain is now available online. It assesses the countrys top attractions on their suitability for travellers with disabilities, as well as featuring accessible accommodation and dining, and a few hidden gems, such as circus schools and unusual museums. Also included in the free guide are visitor reviews, special offers and a blog. accessibleguide.co.uk

Let's get quizzical

Test your knowledge on a particular area and compete against other visitors with the QuizTrail app. The latest addition is Dan Snows Winchester, a trail launched by the TV historian, taking you around the Hampshire county town. Each correct answer unlocks the next stage, and users can add their own questions to the quiz. Other UK destinations featured include York and the City of London, while overseas you can try Venice, Dubrovnik and more. quiztrail.com

Cardiff rescue flights

From 12 September to 21 October, the key rail link between England and South Wales - the Severn Tunnel - will close for electrification work. Journey times between Cardiff and London, normally two hours, could take twice as long. So during the closure Flybe is planning four rescue flights a day (two a day at weekends) between Cardiff and London City Airports. Fares start at 35 each way. flybe.com

Cardiff (Matthew Dixon/iStock)

Fresh way to see Japan

Hiking in the Arashiyama bamboo forest outside Kyoto; Kamakura, Japans medieval capital and home to the first shoguns; and Tokyos formidable fish market, Tsukiji fish - these are all on the itinerary for The Dragon Trips 13-day tour of Japan. The price of 1,499 includes all transport, dorm accommodation and guiding, but not international air fares. thedragontrip.com

Northern Canada on a budget

For years flights between the north of Canada and the cities in the south have been expensive. But FlySarvaq, a new Canadian start-up carrier, plans to change that. It is based in Iqaluit, the main town on Baffin island, and plans to fly there from both Ottawa and Halifax - now better connected from the UK. Flights start 6 May. flysarvaq.ca
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A new type of traveller is emerging, and their demand for a revolutionised holiday experience will have an unprecedented impact on travel in 2016. But who are they? And how will they re-mould our ideas about what makes an idyllic holiday?

Trend forecasters The Future Laboratory describe this group as new bricolage travellers. Why bricolage? The word is defined in the Oxford Dictionary as construction or creation from a diverse range of available things. In this complex world, our lives are assuming a pattern where themes of nationality, gender and fixed identity are becoming fluid, and this group of travellers is looking beyond these conventions to assert who they are.

Identity used to be something that you were born with, but this group is instead defined by its thirst for global experiences. These experiences allow them to learn, grow and re-define who they are, as they collect and display them like trophies on social media. They are rootless and untethered, and whats more, theyre a lucrative demographic that the travel industry will soon be clamouring to cater for.

Were already starting to see how luxury travel experiences are shifting in focus. Hotels and travel operators are creating packages to appeal to those who seek personal and professional growth  even on holiday. Here are a few to watch out for, and even to jump on board with, if you fancy yourself as one of the new bricolage kids on the block

New grand tours

This autumn, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts will take branded escapades to new heights, with Extraordinary Adventures. The 25-day journey on a Four Seasons private jet starts in Austin, Texas, where guests board the 52 seater plane to fly south to Costa Ricas pristine beaches and animated wildlife. From there, its onto Hawaii for stand-up paddleboarding, hiking and more, before crossing the International Date Line en route to Sydney. Here, theres a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House, a Harbour Bridge Climb and surfing on Bondi Beach. The trip also takes in Langkawi in Malaysia, Mauritius, a Serengeti safari in Tanzania and Marrakech city break before concluding in Lisbon. (17 September-11 October; US$137,000/97,860). fourseasons.com

Discovery destinations

Founder of the Discovery Channel John Kendricks has opened a luxurious Colorado mountain resort for his Curiosity Retreats. Each holiday is built around a four-day schedule starring eight speakers, covering all four categories that Kendricks considers foundational: science, technology, civilisation and the human spirit. The presentations are interspersed with arts, music, yoga and horse-riding for when visitors need a break from discussing string theory, nanotechnology and global conflict. curiosityretreats.com

Culture dips

For Londoners not able to escape the city, SideStory has launched its own immersive experiences. Each event centres around a figure from the art, fashion, food or design industry, with an emphasis on learning through experience and sharing ideas.

This culture concierge service is co-founded by former Wallpaper* publisher Gord Ray, ex Wallpaper* City Guides editor Rachael Moloney and former corporate development director at Virgin, Giovanni Donaldson. It is aimed at people whose cultural know-how is already high, and who want that extra bit of access and expertise.

Donaldson told us: There are many websites aimed at helping people find where to stay, where to eat and what sights to see. Were helping people find who to meet. sidestory.co

Martin Raymond is founder of trend forecasting and strategic innovation consultancy, The Future Laboratory
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In what seems like a freakish death dance, the two big UK parties are in turmoil at the same time. Usually, when one of them is falling apart, the other projects a disciplined self -confident swagger. Now cabinet ministers row over Europe and George Osbornes Budgets, while Labour MPs despair in public over their leader who has the passionate support of most members.

One of the great myths in relation to the death dance is that the Conservative party falls apart precisely because it faces a weak opposition. The myth is widely believed and espoused by ministers and even some in Number 10. They argue that if only they faced a decent opposition, Conservative MPs would be more disciplined and united. Instead they assume they will win the next election and so can enjoy a civil war or two.

This theory is nonsense. The last time the Conservatives were falling apart over Europe and opposing parts of their Chancellors budgets was in the mid-1990s. Then they faced the most formidable opposition leader in recent decades.

Tony Blair walked on water and his party was united in its determination to win the election. Knowing they would lose, the Conservatives enjoyed a civil war or two nonetheless - the precise opposite of the current situation. Conservatives row for deeper reasons than the state of the opposition.

Recommended Read more Why we really respond differently to Lahore and Ankara versus Brussels

While Conservative MPs turn to the next leadership contest in the hope of a cathartic outcome, Labour MPs are mostly united in their disdainful opposition to Corbyn but are confused about policy and how to remove him. With good cause, they fumed last week about Corbyns failure to unnerve David Cameron after Iain Duncan Smiths resignation.

Corbyn cannot do parliamentary jousting, that quick-witted mockery of an opponent that fleetingly delights MPs and impresses the media. But some of the MPs attacking Corbyn are themselves on shaky ground.

They were thrilled when, after the last election, Labours acting leader Harriet Harman declared that Labour should abstain in votes on some of Osbornes proposed welfare cuts rather than oppose them all. Some MPs argued at the time that this was a sign of a responsible opposition showing Labour had learned its lessons about being profligate in the run-up to the 2008 crash.

If those MPs had retained that early position, they risked being seen as to the right of Duncan Smith - who resigned over welfare cuts - and to the right of those Conservative MPs who rebelled against the cuts to tax credits on the working poor last autumn (even if their actual positions were more nuanced).

At least Corbyn was a consistent opponent of the cuts, even if he was incapable of making any impact in parliament and has not started to explain how he would pay for his various policies.

The introspective traumas of both parties seem disconnected and yet they have a common cause. Osborne fell into his latest trough a short time before the budget when he hailed a new deal with Google in which the company paid a few more miserly pennies in tax. He was slaughtered for his comments, with internal and external critics suggesting the tax deal was puny. But if Osborne had made his upbeat comments before the 2008 financial crash, they would have attracted little or no attention.

The former Chancellor Gordon Brown, after all, used to hail the UKs low tax regime for international businesses and liked to be photographed next to the richest bankers in the world. In contrast, when Osborne proclaimed his tax deal with Google, cabinet colleagues had no choice but to disown his triumphant interpretation. He had not realised the degree to which even those on the right were gripped by the need for big multinationals to pay vaguely defined fair tax levels after the crash.

The row over the recent Budget, Duncan Smiths resignation and the revolt over welfare cuts also has its roots in the financial crash. Osbornes economic policy was shaped by what happened in 2008. After initially pretending to support Labours spending plans, he made deficit reduction his defining mission, missing his target in the last parliament and now resolved to reach a surplus in this one.

But a significant number of Conservative MPs will not tolerate the spending cuts required for Osborne to keep to his chosen course. In effect they are rebelling against his highly contentious interpretation of what needed to be done after 2008.

During Labours astonishing leadership contest, Corbyn pitched his message solely against the background of the financial crash. At the beginning of each speech he proclaimed that the 2008 crisis was not caused by firefighters, nurses, street cleaners, but by deregulation and sheer levels of greed.

As a climactic he declared: I want a civilised society where everyone cares for everyone else. Enough of free market economics! Enough of being told austerity works!

He did not specify what his alternative would be or, of course, explain how it would work. Corbyn won the leadership because he offered a form of defiant hope in the aftermath of the crash.

While recognising that Corbyn espouses slogans rather than worked-through policies, Labour MPs who oppose him similarly struggle to outline a distinct policy agenda in the post-crash era. It is easy to tweet that Corbyn is useless, but much more challenging to propose a policy agenda to accompany fuming taunts.

After the financial crisis the then-governor of the Bank of England Mervyn King made a candid observation: Im surprised the real anger has not been greater than it has  The people whose jobs were destroyed were in no way responsible for the excesses of the financial sector and the crisis that followed.

Instead, the crash has wreaked greater havoc.

The dance to the death of the two main UK parties, then, is not freakish. The crash led to Osbornes economic policy, from which one-nation Conservative MPs who want decent public services and welfare provision are turning away.

Corbyns election and the impotent bewilderment of Labour MPs are also a consequence of the crash. The 2008 financial crisis may not have triggered riots, but in its aftermath the two main UK parties struggle to survive in their present forms.
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The persecution of Christians in the Middle East rightly receives a good deal of attention in the West, not just from churches. To many people, expelling an entire faith from the region that gave it birth seems doubly offensive. However, as the slaughter on Easter Sunday of about 70 people in Lahore shows - the bombers specifically targeted the Christian community although a majority of victims were Muslims - there is not much to choose now between being a Christian in Pakistan and, say, Iraq.

Where the difference does lie is in the foreign reaction. Western governments rain down condemnations on ISIS when it targets Christians in Iraq or Syria. But because Pakistan is an important Western ally, a curious silence reigns when it comes to the persecution of Christians there. Too often in Britain and America, the sectarian nature of these attacks is either ignored completely or mentioned en passant.

It is not as if Sundays bombing in Lahore was a bolt from the blue. Last April saw a horrific attack on two churches in Lahore, which killed about 17 people. Another 85 were killed when a suicide bomber targeted a church in Peshawar in 2013.

Of course, various motives dictated the decision of a local Taliban splinter group to blow up the church in Lahore. The Islamist militants clearly wanted to show that their reach extends far beyond the lawless, so-called tribal areas of the northwest and into the heart of the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the country. However, as the Talibans own statement of responsibility also showed, a specific hatred of the small Christian minority was also a determining factor.

Michael Nazir-Ali, the Pakistan-born former Bishop of Rochester, has long complained of the apparent indifference of the world and of the government in Islamabad to the plight of Pakistans Christians and says they have becoming sitting ducks for terrorists to do whatever they like. He believes the government, the courts, the police  the whole state apparatus  are now so intimidated by the threat of Islamist fury that even when they wish to protect Christians from sectarian violence they hesitate to do so. He maintains that hostility to Christians in Pakistan has also become hardwired into the justice system by the infamous blasphemy law, which makes any alleged insult to Islam a capital offence. This leaves small vulnerable communities permanently hostage to the good will of their more numerous Muslim neighbours who can accuse them of blasphemy at the drop of a hat.

It is understandable that Pakistans allies have shrunk from pressing the government in the past on such issues, worried that criticism might make Pakistans Western ties even more unpopular among ordinary people than they are already. The Americans are desperate to keep Islamabad on board and remain terrified by the thought of the countrys possible collapse. Best to say nothing lest it make a bad situation even worse is their guiding principle.

However, it should be clear now that continuing to ignore attacks on Christians - or doing nothing about them except dishing out routine expressions of regret - achieves nothing. Indeed, it seems to have emboldened the Islamists to up the ante. It is good that the authorities in Punjab have had the decency to declare three days of mourning this time. But it is also time for Pakistans foreign friends to remind the government openly that the countrys founding principle was the creation of a social democracy based on Islamic ideals, not a persecuting theocracy. It is bad enough that people should have to suffer for their race or religion. Whats even worse is suffering in silence.
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Stefano Hatfield is right about the hypocrisy of David Cameron pontificating about "Christian values" -- a phrase designed, in Orwell's words, "to give an appearance of solidity to pure wind" -- but he is wrong to suggest that what the prime minister needs to do is "to look within" (28 March). Rather, he needs to look to the source of Easter faith and life, i.e., to Jesus of Nazareth himself.

Even a cursory reading of the gospels indisputably portrays a man who defends the poor and the rich, welcomes the outcast and stranger, rejects violence and blesses peacemakers, practices forgiveness and mercy -- and gets himself killed by speaking truth to power and unmasking its humbug and guff.

But then many a church has only itself to blame -- with a little help from a theologically illiterate media -- for the harebrained idea that being a Christian simply means believing certain stuff about God, being pleasant, working hard, looking after your own, and singing "God Save the Queen".

Revd. Kim Fabricius

Swansea

Well said! (Stephano Hatfield's article in Monday 28th's i.) Cameron's pride in Britain's Christian values mismatching his policies is but another example of what Churchill once said: that Christianity is the flag we fly under but seldom the rudder we steer by.

Rodney Wood

Whitstable, Kent

Home truths about the EU

Our inland security will not necessarily be any greater if we exit the EU (Letters, 28th March). Our membership means citizens have the right to travel and work here. However, as we are not party to the Schengen agreement, they still have to show their passport, so it is wrong to claim we would "regain control of our borders".

We should remember also that, in the attack on London in 2005, the perpetrators came from Leeds.



Richard Walker

Malvern

When Jeremy Hunt last week warned that "Brexit" will lead to NHS "cuts and falling standards" and "an exodus of doctors," had he perhaps confused the terms "Brexit" and "Jeremy Hunt?"

Dr Jonathan Barnes

Anaesthetics Core Trainee

University College Hospital, London

There's more to Palmyra than military wins

In welcoming the liberation of Palmyra from the murderous grip of Daesh/Isis we should not forget the sacrifice of Khaled al-Assad who was beheaded there last August, and who devoted his life to the preservation and interpretation of the citys ruins.

If we value his memory and the cultural values he stood for, the whole civilised world should ensure the monument is safeguarded for future generations.

Colin Wakeling

Berwick-upon-Tweed

Independently digital

This won't do. The Independent arrived on my tablet just after midnight and I couldn't resist reading the stories that grabbed my attention. I used to get out of bed to read the morning paper but from now on, it seems I'll be taking the midnight paper to bed instead. I think I need counselling. Help me.

David Rose

Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands

Unlike some of your recent correspondents I welcome the change to the digital format. I spend many weeks of the year in Spain, and I can now read the same things that I received - and still receive at home in Wales.

I am very worried, however, about those who claimat over 60 to be old and therefore unfamiliar with the simple technology of using a computer or laptop. I am 76 and have found this change of considerable benefit to me, giving me the familiar appearance of The Independent, turning pages to find exactly what I am looking for, being able easily to take clippings to share with friends, and the making of it available wherever I want to receive it.

For me it is not just normal service continues, it is a considerable improvement in availability, including the case that my wife and I can receive it separately, at the same time if necessary, and in my access away from home.

Norman Mills

Newport, Wales

What a pleasure sitting at breakfast on Bank Holiday Monday, both with our tablets, doing the crossword together (we usually do half each). This digital thing may work yet!

Jill Buss

Alresford, Hampshire
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First doctors, now teachers. Has the government embarked on a mission to stamp on the caring professions?

Hot on the heels of launching its nuclear option of imposing a much-detested new contract on junior doctors, Number 10 chose last week to get rough and ready with the countrys teachers.

The biggest overhaul in education for more than 60 years was revealed not by the Education Secretary but by the Chancellor. George Osbornes bombshell education announcement  placed, rather peculiarly, in the middle of his Budget  was to turn every state school in England into an "academy"  so-called "forced academisation" or, as the Economist preferred to put it, the Starbucksification of schools.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan immediately turned Jeremy Hunt-like language on complaining teachers, because why not take tips from a man who managed to alienate an entire profession of doctors?

There is no reverse gear when it comes to our education reforms, she declared this weekend, as blunt as she was dismissive. Meanwhile, Junior Health Minister Ben Gummer dismissed junior doctors strikes as pointless, since that train has now left the station.

One has to wonder at the Governments chutzpah in so bullishly persisting with public service overhauls against which entire professions are united.

But for now, at least, teachers have been spared the Governments most heavy-handed rhetoric. Junior doctors have been variously described as militants, radicals and politically poisoned  all, apparently, for having the temerity to speak out against a government policy which we believe will endanger the safety of our patients.

Presumably, if teachers remain out of line on academisation, they too will be subjected to Government insinuations that their behaviour is somehow akin to that of terrorists.

What is striking in both stand-offs against both teachers and doctors is the Governments refusal to see our resistance to their policies as being driven by anything other than self-interest. Actually, what most strongly unites our professions is our concern for the most vulnerable people in society  and our steadfast unwillingness to sign up to political spin masquerading as hard evidence.

The seven-day NHS is a case in point: a brilliant soundbite dressed up in emotive, patient-centred rhetoric, yet backed by neither the funds nor staff required for its safe delivery. Doctors, steeped in evidence-based medicine, cannot condone the nonsense that an un-costed, unstaffed, seven-day soundbite is genuinely beneficial for patients.

And so it is with academies. The government assertion that chains of multi-academy trusts will drive up standards in schools is backed up by surprisingly little evidence that academy chains are any more adroit than local authorities at supervising schools.

Recommended Read more Why I dropped out of teaching after six months

Just as there are good and bad hospitals, so too are there good and bad schools - in both the local authority and the academy sectors. No-one has yet explained which problems will be solved by radical structural reform imposed by central government, or why academies can demonstrably solve them. In short, there is no convincing evidence for this radical overhaul of the nations schooling.

Nonetheless, the government persists in branding teachers and doctors concerns with its policies as a dereliction of our duty to our patients/pupils. Teaching unions have a choice, said Nicky Morgan this week. Spend the next four years doing battle with us and doing down the profession they represent, or stepping up, seizing the opportunities offered and helping us to shape the future of the education system.

What the government appears not to have appreciated is the profound resolve of both doctors and teachers to protect our patients and our pupils from unsubstantiated Government spin.

Already, the countrys biggest teaching union has voted to ballot its members on whether to go on strike over the new academy policy. To preside over one public workers strike is careless; to precipitate two is positively election-threatening.

David Cameron now potentially faces simultaneous doctors strikes, teachers strikes and an EU referendum. Its set to be a long, hot summer.
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I find a new report on UK productivity by think tank the Smith Institute grimly fascinating. More than two-thirds of employees questioned say they are working longer hours than two years ago, but only 10 per cent believe they are more productive. In fact, a quarter of staff members say theyre working harder than ever but their productivity has declined over the last two years.

Im not surprised to hear that were burning the midnight oil with more frequency - because, gosh, I am so busy, pull up a chair and let me moan - but it feels so cruel to face up to the fact that its all for less than nothing.

The way Britain functions has rapidly shifted. Not so long ago, the fact I slaved over a hot laptop on a Bank Holiday Monday to bring you this life-enhancing epistle would have marked me out as somewhat of a trouper.

Working over Easter, not so long ago, was the territory of those offering something vital, important or deeply unusual. It was for martyrs, maestros and the much-maligned. Same for Sunday mornings at 7am, or 11pm on a Wednesday night. Or any time between 7 and 9 on a Friday, when it was completely de rigeur to rattle a shop door or send a work email and receive a reply saying - in a roundabout sense - Naff off, mate, were not here.

But  and the Smith Institute backs me up on this - over the last two years Ive noticed a rapid depletion in the British concept of downtime. Not just among media twonks like me or London-based companies, but across all sectors.

We want our restaurants open seven days per week, our hotels staffed joyously on Christmas Day, our trains to run safely all night and our customer service hotline taking calls perky at 6am.

We want groceries delivered at 11pm on a Sunday night with a 1 delivery fee and our TaskRabbit electrician here within the literal click of a button.

Nowadays, if I send half a dozen work emails on a Sunday morning to get ahead of myself for Monday  because Im so busy, so terribly busy  at least five will ping back within the hour, typed by other people trying to get ahead too. At that point, it becomes a fact that none of us are getting ahead for Monday but are in fact merely working with each other on a Sunday. How did this become the status quo, and so quickly?

Five years ago, this didnt happen. There was an unsaid guilt-free lull. We appear to be lost in a crossfire hurricane of new technology, job fear, wage stagnation and  most importantly than all this - strident consumer neediness. Were phasing out those times when we go off-grid: asleep, tipsy or covered in dogs, crumbs or our babies. And that doesnt seem to be doing us any good at all.

Dive further into the Smith Institutes report and you start to see why. The report suggests, for example, that managers often seek productivity gains via jobs cuts or simply by instructing workers to do the same tasks at a faster pace.

One civil servant said: It would be better to concentrate on improving quality, not quantity  [To get work] right first time rather than continually having to repeat or rectify botched or inadequate work which meets a so-called target.

For me, in my souped-up, Super-50 fibre broadband enhanced daily life where every retail need is available for next-day delivery at an app touch and my iPhone is more like an extra appendage, this rings a bell.

I want my NHS GP service faster with Skype consultation and Deliveroo to fetch dinner from a restaurant four miles away thats piping hot and seasoned perfectly when it arrives.

And yet, in this Brave New World, so many of us have developed the most cantankerous of inner Victor Meldrews. Because why is the chilli oil seasoning on this pizza delivery too hot? And how have they lost my blood results? And why has my ASOS delivery been left in a wheelie bin? And for Gods sake how many calls to the bank does it take to send out new authorisation PIN?

In other words, we are busy, stressed, falsely productive people being catered to by other busy, stressed, seemingly mega-productive folk who keep making mistakes and having to start over again. Then the cycle of promised productivity  coupled with the reality of human beings  begins anew.

I remember a time, as a teen in the eighties, when absolutely nothing happened in Britain from 5pm on Friday through to 10am on Monday after wed all had two strong pots of tea. And even then, if were being honest, nothing really got going until Tuesday.

We were under-stimulated, never pandered towards and at the same time absolutely bored silly.

Sometimes, I think back to those times and it all feels rather like fun.
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Last week I answered my phone to an angry man. Why, he demanded to know, had the media devoted so many more column inches to the terrorist outrages in Brussels than to those which had been visited on Ankara and Istanbul in the week before?

He was not alone in comparing responses to the atrocities in these two countries. Others have looked beyond the media to consider more broadly the seemingly differing public reaction to bombs in Belgium and attacks in Turkey. Some have concluded that there is a fundamentally racist narrative at play: we value white European lives more than those of dark-skinned people beyond Europes borders. They may think that coverage of yesterday's bombing in Pakistan adds grist to the mill.

Insofar as The Independent is concerned, the recent acts of terrorism in Turkey were far from ignored. After the car bombing of 13 March in Ankara we published numerous pieces reporting and analysing the attack. Yet it is true to say that our coverage of the airport and metro explosions in the Belgian capital last week was more extensive. In part that reflects practical considerations  physical access to Brussels is about as easy as it gets, for instance.

But it also reflects the greater level of shock at the atrocity in Belgium among people in this country. The question remains, then, whether that increased feeling of horror is motivated by some sort of conscious or unconscious racism: and if it is, is the media pandering to and perpetuating a Euro-centric, xenophobic attitude by the weight of its reporting?

To conclude in the affirmative feels simplistic. It ignores the fact that for most British people hearing about the outrage in Brussels the immediate point of comparison is not Ankara but London, or other major cities here. The Belgian capital is, after all, in many ways similar to London. It is a city that many Brits have visited; it is close by (two hours on the train); it is home to the European Commission and all the accompanying security; it has no borders with conflict countries. In short, it is a place we recognise.

 Terrorist attacks you might not have heard of

The greater focus on Brussels than Ankara, then, is not about race or religion but fear. People in this country are appalled by terror attacks in Turkey (or Pakistan or Mali or Burkina Faso); but are much more likely to be scared by what they see in a familiar-feeling western capital  if it can happen there, it can happen here. The solidarity shown in the aftermath of massacres in France and Belgium is as much a coping mechanism to deal with this fear as it is a simple expression of sympathy for the loss of strangers lives.

But if this is so, shouldnt the media challenge such psychological stasis? Up to a point perhaps, and it is important to consider whether our coverage of any tragedy  any story for that matter  is proportionate. But then, isn't a triple suicide-bombing in the capital of Belgium more surprising than a terrorist attack in Turkey? Not more appalling, not more deadly, not more grotesque; but more unexpected and unpredictable? Surely it is. And does it not pose questions for our own security agencies that killings in Turkey, or Iraq, or Nigeria or Mali do not? It certainly seems likely.

Therefore, if last weeks attacks in Brussels received more coverage across the British-based media than acts of terrorism elsewhere it is for rational reasons. That isnt to say that some people individually are not motivated by a xenophobic instinct. But equally it is absurd to infer that anyone who writes or reads or says more about Brussels or Paris than Ankara or Lahore is either racist or doesnt care about Turkeys and Pakistan's tragic dead.
Cocaine was seized in a raid on premises in Dublin

Cocaine valued at around half a million euro has been seized during a raid in Dublin, gardai say.

The haul was uncovered during a search of a premises at Coolquay, The Ward.

The 7 kilo seizure on Sunday has been described as a "significant blow" to organised crime gangs operating in the capital.

The "intelligence led" searches were carried out by officers from the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau backed up by local gardai from Finglas Garda station.

"This seizure is regarded as a significant blow against criminals engaged in organised crime and it will seriously disrupt the illegal sale and supply of cocaine in the Dublin region," a Garda spokesman said.

No arrests have been made and investigations are continuing, he added.
Pepper Ireland has said it may offer financial support to customers in mortgage arrears to leave their homes - but only if the borrowers wish to.

Amid a report that cash incentives were being offered to borrowers if they quit homes, Pepper said it was committed to exhausting all options to help customers stay in their homes.

The Australian lender, which took over the mortgages of GE Money here, said one of the options it may offer customers in distress was an Assisted Voluntary Sale (AVS), which could involve financial assistance towards legal, auctioneer or relocation costs.

The 'Sunday Business Post', quoting a letter to one borrower, said this could be a high as 5,000 but a spokesman for Pepper said each case was different.

"In the case of AVS, assistance, advice and financial support are provided for customers who have unsustainable debt and wish to sell their properties in order to reduce or clear their mortgage loan.

"Depending on the personal situation of the borrower, they may be provided with financial assistance towards legal and auctioneer costs, or relocation costs, for example," a Pepper statement said.

Meanwhile, further pressure is being placed on the Central Bank to ease its mortgage deposit rules.

In an interview with the 'Sunday Business Post', chief executive Richie Boucher suggested that the rules on deposit size should be softened but the loan-to income ceiling should remain.

Central Bank governor Philip Lane has said the measures will be reviewed later in the year.
You don't expect Bob Geldof to answer the door himself. But it creaks open and there he is, even taller than you expected, a nimbus of wild, donnish hair framing his gloriously craggy face. He leads me into the mixing desk where he and a production team are putting the finishing touches to his documentary about Yeats and 1916.

Commemoration fatigue may well and truly have set in for most of us, but Geldof's examination of Yeats's leading of the country's cultural revolution during the period cuts through the blather.

Geldof speaks with the passion of an evangelist about the poet who "wrote his country into being". Images of Edna O'Brien, Bono and Damian Lewis flash across the screen, and it's clear that Bob certainly hasn't lost the knack of marshalling luminaries behind a project. I've been warned that he can be cantankerous, but seeing him in such good form, bantering with the team, focusing with laser-like intensity on every tiny edit, brings a sense of relief. After the horrors of the last few years, you want everything for him. Including, as he points out himself, "not being seen as this tragic fucking figure, some caricature of grief."

He's wary of being probed - more than once he tells me that he doesn't want to talk about himself, but he also adds that he does interviews instead of therapy.

"I've never really had a problem discussing what's going on inside me. You hear people say, 'Oh men can't express themselves.' Well, I can, and I couldn't give a fuck about it. The more mysterious you act, anyway, the more people tend to probe.

"I don't blather on, but when things are tough and you're with mates, I will talk. I think confession originally had the same kind of function for people, just that sort of sanctioned unburdening."

There is probably much to unburden. Just a few years ago it appeared that he had reached a plateau of contentment that he had striven towards his whole life. His fifties - he is 64 now - were when he really "put the demons of the past behind", he tells me. He had settled into his role as one of rock's elder statesmen, reinvigorated the Boomtown Rats and was happy in his relationship with Jeanne Marine, his partner of the last two decades.

Then, two years ago next week, his daughter Peaches was found dead in London at the age of 25. Heroin was later found to have been a factor in her death and the horrible symmetries with the death of her mother - Paula Yates had died of an overdose - made the tragedy feel like a curse.

Peaches and her sisters had been the subject of a bitter custody battle between their parents, who had split after Paula left Bob for INXS frontman Michael Hutchence. In those years, Peaches later wrote, Bob was "embittered and depressed" and imposed an "almost Dickensian" regime of rules and order in an attempt to compensate for the chaos of life at Paula's.

The author Stephen King once wrote that "beating heroin is child's play compared to beating your childhood" but unlucky Peaches had failed to beat either, leaving her children, husband and grief-stricken father to try to carry on without her.

For Bob, this almost proved impossible, and he tells me that he contemplated suicide.

"I'd make lists and keep working at the writing of those lists until the upside overwhelmed the downside. In my case I wrote down, 'What's the upside of being alive?' and 'What's the downside of it?' Was it ever really serious? Overall, no. In that moment, though, perhaps it was. I had the sanity, luckily, to phone a friend and tell him, 'Look I think I'm just starting to get rationally irrational.' He almost slapped my face (with his tone) and said, 'Don't do anything fucking stupid, stay exactly where you are' and came around very quickly. People talk you through these things."

Video of the Day

Male friends were particularly important during that time.

"Men and women are very different. Women want you to talk everything out whereas with men it's good enough if we're just with each other. I remember the lads coming around and just occasionally catching each other's eye. Nobody really said anything but when they'd all gone I felt they had given me a bit of relief."

He tells me that one of the most important factors in getting through the grief was marrying Jeanne.

"Peaches had just died and I decided that John Lennon, in all his glorious naivety, was right; love is all you need. There's one of my own songs that goes, 'To live and love is all there is, life without love is meaningless.' [Marriage] didn't make us love each other any more but I asked her in front of all our friends and family. And I married her on her 50th birthday, so what an amazing fucking present that was."

Had they both always wanted it? "We both always loved each other. She never hassled me and I didn't do it out of gratitude for all she'd done for me and the children, but I think it was important. Among her mates, I don't know if it's a status thing among their group, or among women in general, but I'd notice that other women would say 'my husband' and she'd say 'Bob' or stuff like that, and I subtly clocked that."

It's impossible not to read subtexts about Geldof's own tragedy into his take on Yeats and 1916's "blood sacrifice bollocks".

"In the piece I say that dying is easy, we all will die," he tells me. "The difficult thing to do is to stay alive and continue and effect change. [Yeats] invented Ireland more than any of [the men of 1916] because the Ireland we live in is his Ireland, not the Ireland of the proclamation. He also stayed alive to effect change, whereas they died. He made the institutions on which we built a state. The institutions we got had just been absorbed from English custom and law. Besides the Abbey, he tried to bring modern art to Ireland.

"He tried to bring back Shaw and Joyce. Micheal Mac Liammoir said that he had an anti-immigration scheme for artists. Yeats literally wrote his country into being."

In some ways you could say that Geldof sang his country into being, although he bashfully pooh-poohs the idea himself. But before Bob became the mouthy patron saint of giving, he represented one of the soldiers (to use the language of 1916) of Irish youth, storming the ramparts of the old order.

Growing up, his mother died young - he tells me he does not remember grieving for her, but he remembers seeing his father cry. He shared a bedroom with his father, and Bob's side of the room was adorned with CND posters.

When he left school he went to England for a while, working various jobs including a brief, unlikely stint as a children's TV presenter. He returned to Dublin in the mid-1970s and formed the band The Nightlife Thugs; they later changed their name to the Boomtown Rats, after a gang of children Geldof had read about in Woody Guthrie's autobiography, Bound for Glory.

One of the contributors to the Yeats series, novelist Joe O'Connor, once described Bob's first appearance on the Late Late Show: He "shambled onto the screen like an evil, bedraggled wino and sneered his way through the interview in a furtive southside drawl. He detested many things about Ireland, he said. He loathed the Catholic Church; he hated the priests who had taught him in Blackrock College, he disliked his father. He had only gotten into rock and roll in order to get drunk and get laid. Almost everything he said was greeted with horrified gasps and massed tongue-clickings from the audience, and wild cheers from my friends and myself."

Bob only behaved like that, he tells me, because he was sure, after a certain point, that they would never be allowed on television again. They were wild years. The Rats were taking off and the temptations were great. He recalls taking hash and freaking out. "I took it and I remember thinking to myself, 'It's a sedative, so go around the block and walk it off.' When I came back into the house I remember there was a nail sticking out of the wall and I leaned down and thought it would be an idea to stick the nail into my head." He demonstrates against the wall in the kitchen. He tells me he was later prescribed valium and lithium. "I don't envy the young. I'd hate to have to do it all again."

He met Paula in the early days of the Rats. They had a daughter together, Fifi Trixibelle (more appalled tongue-clicking across the Irish sea). "The first time that I got married, Paula and I had been living together for years and we had a three-year-old baby. There was a load of bollocks, annoyances, associated with not being married. I was in LA recording and Barry McGuigan was defending his title in Vegas and I said to her, 'Come on and let's do it here.'"

They had 10 tumultuous years of marriage, but when she left him for Australian rocker Michael Hutchence (with whom she had Tiger Lily) he was devastated. "I couldn't get beyond the huge immensity of loss - that universal grief," he told an audience at the Hay festival a few years ago. "Pain crowded in my head. I couldn't find a way over or beyond it. It was too much, the whole thing. I hated women. I didn't trust them. I didn't want to be near them."

The family court messiness that followed made him one of the patron saints of fathers' rights. But it was Live Aid, of course, that turned him into a global figure and made him 'Sir Bob'.

It won him the admiration of billions, but, with each new iteration topping the Christmas charts year after year, there were those who wondered how much it was about the hungry in Africa and how much about the ego of the celebrities who took part. "I wouldn't give a shite if it were about their ego," he responds. "When Britney Spears started doing breast cancer stuff, people scoffed at it for those exact reasons. Well, all my girls went and got checked because of Britney and continue to get checked. Would they have done that with a 20 million advertising budget on telly? Nope."

Another of the criticisms of Geldof has been that, like his friend Bono, he has cosied up to powerful people with blood on their hands. He nods vigorously when I mention this, but adds a powerful caveat.

"It's true, I shook hands with murderers who, the minute I left, went downstairs to torture people. And I knew that at the time. The guy who ran Ethiopia, for instance, was a brute and a thug. Dealing with him was a question of pragmatics. To be in that country I had to tick the box with this person. But I never just kept my mouth shut, I always raised issues. I remember taking his hand and saying, in front of journalists, "When was the last time this hand strangled people" and he pulled his hand back and said, "Those people are my enemies."

He associates ageing with a creeping sense of pragmatism, he tells me. "When I listen to young people today, they're actually entranced by the sixties - which were grim - or they think that they're living through a great time now - they're not. I hear their ideas and I think, 'Well, that won't work' or 'That's been tried before.' They say, 'Tear down all the corporations' and you think, "Well, think it through, because I had to."

He is "aware of the fucking finishing line of life getting closer", he says, but doesn't fear ageing. "I see myself on telly and I think, 'Fuck, you're old.' I see the chicken neck and the jowls and I make little excuses to myself like, 'Oh, I had flu that day.' But then I'm like, 'Nah, dude, that's what you look like - shite.' It's desperately inelegant to struggle with it, or to, Trump-like, slap on a whole load of orange tan. But, on the other hand, if I felt like doing that I would. Anyway the plain fact of the matter is that I'm just getting more devastatingly attractive."

He's an adoring grandfather to Peaches's two kids, Astala and Phaedra, who live with Peaches's widower Thomas Cohen. The two men are said to have grown closer over the last few years. "I loved the whole bit of grandkids," Bob says. "Mine are tiny little sprogs now and there is this incredible cuteness of them learning to talk. I bring around film of them on my phone to show to people. It's brilliant when they're about six or eight but then they get to 14 and become a huge pain in the hole."

He doesn't fear death, especially not if it comes during his planned space mission, which is still in the works. "I'd go right now if that was possible," he says, eyes shining with Christmas morning-level enthusiasm. "I want to see it. I want to see that little improbable ball we live on. I'm not scared, I've done all the F16 zero gravity stuff. I don't believe in the rockstar way to go, but if that was the way it were to happen I wouldn't give a shite."

He lives with Jeanne and Tiger Lily, who has just been accepted to a very fancy university, he tells me, bristling with pride (although he asks me not to say which one, lest photographers set up camp on the day). Could he live here, in what he once called The Banana Republic, again? "Now I could, but before I couldn't. And it goes back to Yeats's point. We became the people he said we always were - open, plural and for me the final point was the marriage bill. It was like saying to them, the Church, the old leaders, 'Would you ever fuck off?'"

It will be Peaches's anniversary next week and Bob has a sort of vague, if perfectly understandable, fear that there could be more tragedy on the horizon.

"It's not as if there isn't anything coming, and you sort of dread what is coming next. I don't know what it could be. It seems to me to be a bizarrely episodic life. The trick, for me, is to remain incessantly busy."

The second and final part of 'A Fanatic Heart: Geldof on Yeats' can be seen on Thursday at 10.15pm on RTE One
Some of Irelands top performers starred in a concert tonight to mark the end of RTEs programme of events over the Easter weekend.

Broadcast live from Bord Gais Energy Theatre on RTE One the show told the story of modern Ireland through music, dance and song.

'Centenary' featured well known names such as Imelda May, Jack L, Gavin James, The High Kings, Colm Wilkinson, Danny OReilly, Iarla O Lionaird, Sharon Shannon, Donal Lunny, John Sheahan, Celine Byrne, and Seo Linn.

The chilling and beautiful reading of the Proclamation by Irish people around the world struck a chord with many viewers, who turned to Twitter to voice their appreciation for the one-off show.

Centenary such a special show, loving every minute. Well done all involved #miseeire #Centenary #1916 #rte  Rachel Ni Ealaithe (@KokoNonie) March 28, 2016

Hats off to everyone involved with #Centenary on @RTEOne top-notch production values!  padserdalhoun (@paudi65) March 28, 2016

@rte Watching #Centenary...it's amazing. Wonderful talent in our beautiful country. Proud to be Irish #rising1916 Comhgairdeas  Nuala Dalton (@alaunnotlad) March 28, 2016

#Centenary Pure pride and brilliance! Ireland is such a talented country  Kate Reilly (@KatieReilly88) March 28, 2016

Stop what you are doing immediately and turn on RTE.

The Centenary is unbelievable!! Simply fantastic!!! So proud to be Irish! #Centenary  Cathy Maguire (@CathyMaguirexox) March 28, 2016

#centenary on RTE is just stunning. Moving and inspirational music and dance. #proudtobeirish  Fonril (@Fonril) March 28, 2016

So impressed with @rte #Centenary show live from @BGETheatre I have goosepimples with just half an eye to it in work. Emotional stuff.  Louise Kelly (@Louise_a_Kelly) March 28, 2016

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Ahead of the show Imelda revealed that her own grandparents were part of the Rising.

I'm honoured to be a part of this the centenary of the 1916 Rising. To commemorate the sacrifice those brave martyrs made for us is very important to me and my family.

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She continued: To commemorate it with music, art and poetry across our country is very fitting considering that the Rising was led, not by traditional soldiers, but by poets and artists fighting with passion and pride.

Other performances tonight included Jack Ls rendition of The Minstrel Boy while Gavin James performed one of the evocative songs of the Rising The Foggy Dew.

Newcomer Sibeal Ni Chasaide performed a haunting rendition of Mise Eire - a new arrangement of Padraig Pearse's poem by renowned composer Patrick Cassidy.

Soprano Celine Byrne sang You Raise Me Up accompanied by 21 choirs, Colm Wilkinson performed One and Seo Linn closed the event with a rousing performance of Music Makers.

The next generation of the Black family also take centre stage with Mary Blacks son and Coronas frontman Danny OReilly performing Grace with his sister Roisin O and cousin Aoife Scott.

President Michael D Higgins also attended the event and addressed the audience with a poignant Gaeilge-English tribute to the Irish rebels who died in the 1916 Easter Rising.

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Managing Director for RTE Television Glen Killane said: "Arts and culture are at the very heart of the Irish identity so it's fitting that Centenary is the culmination of RTE 1916, to reflect on the Rising itself and the nation we have become. RTE is very proud to present Centenary, telling our nation's story through music, poetry, dance and song in collaboration with some of Ireland's best creative talents".
1916 Centenary Commemorations: Four Courts, Wreath Laying Ceremony. Easter Monday. Pic Shows: Acting Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD. and Chief Justice of Ireland, Mrs. Justice Susan Denham observe a minutes silence at a wreath laying ceremony at the Four Courts in Dublin on Easter Monday Photo: Maxwells

1916 Centenary Commemorations: Four Courts, Wreath Laying Ceremony. Easter Monday. Pic Shows: Chief Justice of Ireland, Mrs. Justice Susan Denham speaking at a wreath laying ceremony at the Four Courts in Dublin on Easter Monday Photo: Maxwells

1916 Centenary Commemorations: Four Courts, Wreath Laying Ceremony. Easter Monday. Pic Shows: Acting Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald TD. speaking at a wreath laying ceremony at the Four Courts in Dublin on Easter Monday Photo: Maxwells

1916 Centenary Commemorations: Four Courts, Wreath Laying Ceremony. Easter Monday. Pic Shows: Chief Justice of Ireland, Mrs. Justice Susan Denham speaking at a wreath laying ceremony at the Four Courts in Dublin on Easter Monday Photo: Maxwells

A NUMBER of simultaneous readings of the Proclamation have taken place in Dublin to commemorate its inception 100 years ago.

Volunteers who manned barricades at the Four Courts during the Easter Rising have been praised by a Chief Justice for their compassion and bravery.

Mrs Justice Susan Denham also highlighted the role women played on Easter week, 1916.

She laid a wreath outside the Four Courts at lunchtime with Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald and a representative of the families of1916 survivors.

The proclamation was then read by a member of the defence forces at locations that were key to the rebels efforts 100 years ago.

Readings also took place at Moore Street and the Royal College of Surgeons on St Stephens Green at 1.15pm to commemorate Padraig Pearses first reading of the Proclamation outside the GPO on Easter Monday in 1916.

What struck me in reminding myself of this historic event was the care shown by the volunteers to those captured from the enemy force, said Chief Justice Denham.

Not only did the Volunteers treat them humanely here in the Four Courts, but the lives of many were saved by the Volunteers when a water mains burst and those in the cells of the Bridewell were about to drown.

Bravery must extend to doing the right thing - to being humane. Our Four Courts Volunteers certainly showed that bravery, not just in fighting, but in respect for those they overcame.

She highlighted the strategic role the Four Courts site played during the rising but also pointed to the fact the role women and children played in the rising often goes unnoticed.

The Proclamation of the Irish Republic was addressed to Irishmen and Irishwomen.

The Rising, and the following nation building, owes much to the role played by women. Our recollections throughout this day include that often forgotten role - of the 276 women recorded as having an active part in the Rising.

We also remember the 40 children who died that week. And, of course, the civilians - who died as collateral to the fighting - or who were singled out and slain for no good reason. Close to us here 15 men were killed in what was simply a massacre.
The 1916 Centenary parade makes its way past the GPO in Dublin. Photo: Gerry Mooney

After two painstaking years, Lego enthusiast Paul Derrick has finally completed his scale model of Dublins General Post Office during the 1916 Rising, using a whopping 50,000 toy bricks.

Paul, who is originally from Hampshire, England, but now lives in Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan, wanted to honour the centenary in a way that would appeal to younger generations.

Theres so much out there about 1916, and it can be a lot for younger people to take in. Lego is so visual - its not political, its not confrontational, its just an objective representation of how it was, he told independent.ie.

Even when I was building it at home, my daughters started asking things like, why did the Irish people not want the English there? It led on to other conversations for us, he added.

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The display, which stretches two-and-a-half metres wide and four metres long, includes the GPO building, an old tram and dozens of Lego soldiers and rebels, and was originally suggested by Pauls Irish wife Evanna.

I didnt know how well it would be received, I didnt want to play down the significance of the anniversary, but my wife said people would see it as a nice way to commemorate the Rising, he said.

Although Paul is British, his great-grandfather  who happened to be called Michael Collins  was from Cork, and moved to London in 1920.

Paul is a father of five, and described the build as becoming a family affair, as his daughters Asha (8) and Elise (7) helped make the cobbled streets - not an easy task, considering they required 30,000 bricks.

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At his Carrickmacross home Paul has a studio dedicated to Lego, where he believes there are over a million pieces scattered about the room.

The big joke in the house is that its daddys room, but its a room that everybody uses because we all love Lego, he said.

Paul estimated that it would have taken 300 hours to build the model had all of the bricks been immediately available, but some of the parts were so obscure that he had to source them from across the globe.

There are some parts that are so rare they were only ever issued 30 years ago. For example, the top cornicing on the building is made from lots of pieces that have indentations on them.

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They were only ever released in a Lego set from 1979 to 1982, and I needed 300 of them, he said.

With the help of friends working at Legoland centres in Germany and Windsor, Paul managed to gather all of the parts he needed, and turned to the internet for more challenging finds.

Throughout his project, Paul received support from Lego through the User Group programme for builders.

They allowed me to have a vast quantity of bricks on the condition that what I build is not outside the Lego ethos  it cant portray violence, it cant be represent drugs or alcohol, things like that, he said.

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Complying with Legos rules proved to be tricky when trying to effectively capture the events outside the GPO during Easter Week 1916.

I have to be very careful. With the Easter Rising theres a very fine line, if I tried to portray it as a British victory or a message about Irish republicanism, they would have said absolutely not, he added.

Paul is a member of Brick.ie, an Irish community of hundreds of adult Lego enthusiasts, and fellow member David Fennell built the green tram featured in Pauls model.

As well as his GPO model, Paul built a model of the Battle of Rorkes Drift using more than 20,000 bricks for Londons Brick 2014 showcase, and the battle of Trafalgar, which features 30 ships, some of which are close to a metre in length.

The GPO build is currently stored at his studio, but Paul has been in talks with An Post about displaying his creation at the real-life GPO.

Next up for Paul is an exhibition in Naas Library, Co Kildare, on May 20, in conjunction with Brick.ie. In the meantime, he will be dividing his cherished build into pieces and hopping in his van for a tour of schools around the country.

When he's not working with bricks, Paul spends much of his time looking after his two autistic sons, Ciaran and Euan.

Ive been building with Lego properly for the last 15 years, and Im hoping to make a career out of it now, he said.

My big passion for Lego is historical builds, and Im hoping to get an exhibition together early next year that I could travel with around Ireland.

In the future, I would like this to be something that I can do with my two boys, and something we can all do together.
Proudly singing Amhran na bhFiann at the top of her lungs, little Casey Daniels (5) was just one of thousands of children delighted at the chance to see units of the Defence Forces marching in the 1916 centenary celebrations.

"She's been having such a great time today," said her mother Carmel Kelly.

"It's been really interesting seeing all the tanks and personnel marching through the city - it's such an unusual sight."

Originally from Roscommon, but living in Rathmines in South Dublin for the last three years, Carmel said her daughter had become interested in 1916 thanks to the efforts of her school.

"She's delighted to be here, and I'm really happy she's got the chance to experience this because it is important to know the history of your country," said Carmel.

"Many schools have been giving special focus leading up to today, which is great because up until this year, I wouldn't have had much experience with the Rising myself.

"Today isn't just about a parade; a lot of the children here understand why these soldiers are marching and why it's important for us to be here. We've a lot of other fun parades like St Patrick's Day, so having a more sobering affair like this seems appropriate - it's fitting because 1916 was an uprising, there was fighting, people died. That's not something to celebrate with a party."
Chances are most people fail to notice it, but O'Rahilly Parade, the short laneway just off Moore Street, is loaded with symbolism for students of 1916 history. It was here, during the last embers of the Rising on April 29, that Michael Joseph O'Rahilly - known to his Republican admirers as The O'Rahilly - died from gunshot wounds sustained in the pitched battle that raged through this part of Dublin's north inner-city.

O'Rahilly Parade, Moore Street and the warren of narrow lanes and streets in their vicinity were thrown into sharp relief last week when High Court Judge Max Barrett ruled that the entire area be designated a national monument as it was the last "battle site" of the bloody rebellion of Easter 1916.

The judgment took even seasoned observers by surprise. It had been assumed that campaigners - including selected relatives of those involved in the Rising - would be unsuccessful, especially as the Government were committed to preserving numbers 14 to 17 Moore Street, with developers Chartered Land seeking to transform the area behind the old Carlton cinema site.

But in his 400-page report, Justice Barrett was unequivocal: this warren of streets is an area of great historical importance. "There remains much of 1916 that is still there and that is evocative of a key moment in Ireland's national history," he wrote. "This is unaffected by the fact that there is also much of the fabric [from] 1916 that, regrettably, has long disappeared from Moore Street and its environs."

Arts minister Heather Humphreys has refused to rule out taking an appeal to the Supreme Court, but such action may well be seen to be swimming against the tide of public opinion.

Architect William Derham - who has just published the book Lost Ireland, which documents the country's fine stock of buildings no longer with us - welcomes the ruling and believes it says something important about how Ireland regards its past and its built heritage. "James Connolly lay gravely injured in one of those houses," he says. "A lot of the fighting took place on these very streets and preserving and protecting them sends out a message about their importance."

The eastern side of Moore Street has retained much of the character it had at the turn of the 20th century, but its western side is unrecognisable having been swallowed up by the enormous Ilac Centre developed in the late 1970s. In all, 11 streets were obliterated, including Little Denmark Street which connected Liffey Street with Parnell Street. One of the finest buildings in the area, and probably well known to the rebels, was the imposing Denmark House, built in the 1890s, and now long gone and likely forgotten.

Derham says such cultural vandalism was a distressingly common phenomenon in 20th-century Ireland, where countless buildings - including several from the Georgian era - were demolished. "So many wonderful buildings, including those of historical importance, have been lost," he says. "They exist only in photographs now. It was a different time, and much has been learned."

The legacy of such destruction can be seen today on Molesworth Street, Dublin, where several buildings put up in the 1970s by the late developer Patrick Gallagher were torn down before Christmas to make way for what's hoped will be new buildings sympathetically designed to fit in with the streetscape of an area that is a stone's throw from Leinster House. Gallagher's unloved office buildings came at the expense of a number of important buildings, including the early-Victorian Molesworth Hall.

"The irony is that it's many of the newer buildings that have come down, barely lasting a few generations, while the far better, older ones remain standing today," Derham says. He points out that while officialdom appeared to have flagrant disregard for our heritage between the 1960s and 1980s, civic movements sprung up to protest - most famously during Dublin Corporation's highly controversial building work on the old Viking settlement at Wood Quay.

Paul Clerkin, the founder of the Archiseek website which documents the country's built heritage, says the Moore Street campaigners were cut from much of the same cloth as their Wood Quay forebears. "It goes to show what a well-meaning and dedicated group of citizens can achieve," he says. "There was a similar groundswell of public opinion at the time of Wood Quay and other 1970s campaigns (such as the protests at Patrick Gallagher's destruction of Molesworth Street) but it was very much Dublin Corporation's approach to ignore campaigns at that time.

"I am surprised (with the High Court judgment). I figured the ruling would be held back until post-centenary events when it would be refused, and the buildings demolished. I'm not sure the ruling changes anything for other buildings with a 1916 link, as the link might be quite tenuous. Many building were destroyed in the fighting, and the Moore Street site has a particular importance."

Meanwhile, broadcaster Ryan Tubridy has long had a keen interest in 1916 and the tempestuous years up to Civil War. Both his grandfathers fought in the War of Independence and, in an interview with this newspaper last year, he noted that echoes of the country's birth remain in the buildings around us. "Those of us who live in Dublin have reminders of it all around us, and the buildings of O'Connell Street resonate with history.

"There's a window above the Burger King in O'Connell Street and that's where my grandfather [Todd Andrews] was shooting from and was shot at [during the War of Independence]."
Graham Dwyer was jailed for life for the murder of childcare worker Elaine O'Hara. Photo: Courtpix

Killer Graham Dwyer has been the victim of a prison assault, one year after he was found guilty of the murder of Elaine O'Hara.

The architect became involved in an altercation with a convicted rapist on the E3 landing of the Midlands Prison.

Sources revealed how Dwyer became "furious" when he discovered that another inmate, sex offender Noel Maher (44), was allegedly spreading rumours about him.

It is understood that Dwyer confronted Maher on Good Friday in a rage and proceeded to push him, demanding to know why there were rumours circulating about him.

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However, Maher, who is currently serving a prison term for raping his stepdaughter, proceeded to punch the convicted killer, sending him crashing to the ground.

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Dwyer did not require hospital treatment for his injuries but was locked into his cell for a number of hours following the incident.

"It was all over fairly quickly. Dwyer thought he was being the big man, but he was put in his place fairly quickly," a source said.

"He didn't need stitches but his ego definitely took a hit. It was all sorted and the two eventually shook hands afterwards," the source added.

It is believed the killer confronted Maher as he believed the alleged rumours spreading around the prison could impact on his upcoming appeal for the murder of Elaine O'Hara (36).

His attacker, registered sex offender Noel Maher, formerly of Barrow Way, Spa Street, Portarlington, was sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment after being found guilty of raping his then 13-year-old stepdaughter.

The incident at the Midlands Prison happened almost a year to the day since Dwyer was convicted of killing Ms O'Hara, on March 27 of last year.

The skeletal remains of the childcare worker were found on Killakee Mountain, Rathfarnham, Dublin, on September 13, 2013. However, parts of her body were never found, including the skull. Because of that, it was impossible to rule precisely how she had died.

There was no physical evidence from the remains that Ms O'Hara had in fact met a violent death.

Dwyer was convinced that this fact would result in his acquittal - but the jury returned a guilty verdict after considering detailed circumstantial evidence, including phone records and video recordings of sado-masochistic sex.

In his looming appeal, it is understood that Dwyer will be challenging the conviction on several legal issues - including the admissibility of thousands of text messages between him and his victim.

Another strand of the appeal will be that the State offered no medical evidence of how Elaine died. His case will also focus on the EU's Data Retention Directive, which obliges all service providers to store logs of customers' phone records for two years, and internet records for one year.

Trial Judge Tony Hunt ruled that the 2011 law was properly invoked and enforced, despite the EU directive having been struck down.

The architect will also claim that the jury should have been discharged on the allegation that Judge Hunt glared at Dwyer during a difficult piece of evidence.

Sources say that Dwyer is "supremely confident" that he will win his appeal.

During his time behind bars, Dwyer has been in contact with a number of female admirers - including a Russian woman and an Anglo-Spanish student au pair. He has grown his hair long and often wears it in a ponytail - prompting the nicknames 'Steven Seagal' and 'Jonathan Ross', according to Dwyer.
The founder of the Real IRA has been released from prison after serving a 20-year sentence for directing terrorism.

Michael McKevitt (65) has spent the past number of weeks on temporary release at his home in Blackrock, Co Louth.

However, he has now been formally released after his sentence expired on Sunday.

McKevitt was released from Portlaoise Prison where he served his sentence for directing terrorism and was also convicted of membership of an illegal organisation after being convicted in the Special Criminal Court in August 2003.

McKevitt, who has cancer, was one of four men found liable for the Omagh bombing in a civil action at Belfast High Court taken by relatives of the dead.

The Real IRA bomb killed 29 people and unborn twins on August 15, 1998.

In a statement to the media, McKevitt denied having anything to do the atrocity.

I had no involvement in the bombing whatsoever. I was stitched-up from the outset, he said.

Within days of the bombing, I said that I had no hand, act or part in the bombing and that remains my position.

He added that the British presence in Ireland is illegitimate.
Second-level students will finally get an opportunity to do computer science in the Leaving Certificate.

Government education advisers have started exploratory work on the introduction of the subject, which is regarded as an increasingly important area of learning for students.

In today's world, computer science underpins every aspect of life, with digital systems relied upon for everything from landing airplanes and churning money out of ATM machines, to mobile phones .

Up until now, Irish children and teenagers with an aptitude for computing have had to depend on the network of voluntary clubs, known as CoderDojo, to develop their programming skills.

Core components of computer science will make their way on to the Junior Cycle curriculum from September, with a short course in coding.

Although only a limited number of schools will be equipped to teach coding this autumn, it will quickly become more widely available.

The proposed Leaving Cert subject would build on that, giving students a deeper knowledge of how to use computers to analyse and solve problems, and providing a sound foundation upon which to pursue study in this field at third-level

Employers across all sectors are crying out for graduates with computing skills - and the lack of a computer programming subject is seen as a serious omission from the second-level curriculum .

Even when school-leavers opt to pursue computing at third-level, the drop out rate is high and attributed to a lack of understanding or preparedness for what is involved.

It will take some years for computer science to become a reality on the Leaving Cert curriculum and will require input from the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).

The NCCA recently started the groundwork on the options, including looking at international best practice.

The request to the NCCA followed a recommendation in the Digital Strategy for Schools report which was published last year, stressing the need not only to integrate information and communications technology (ICT) into teaching and learning across the board, but also to provide for in-depth study of computing at senior cycle.

The issues for the NCCA to consider include the content and design of the new course, the resources that schools would need to implement it, and the availability of teachers with the necessary skills to teach it.

Dublin City University (DCU) president Professor Brian MacCraith is a strong advocate of the introduction of computing to the curriculum for second level students.

He chaired an expert group on Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) education. Its report has yet to be published, but it is understood also to call for computer science as a Leaving Cert subject.

Crucial

Welcoming the NCCA's work, Prof MacCraith told the Irish Independent that it was "crucially important" that the proposed new subject be computer science/coding, rather than a more general one on digital competency.

Prof MacCraith said Coderdojo showed the enthusiasm and aptitude Irish children and teenagers had for coding: "We need to build on that."

One of the issues that has emerged in the UK is the low uptake of among female students in computer science at school level, but Prof MacCraith said females accounted for 45pc of entrants to the CoderDojo Coolest Projects Awards.
Irish schools face serious teacher shortages unless the Government takes action to manage the numbers being trained for the job, according to a new report

And it also warns that the current absence of planning could leave schools facing the opposite risk - too many teachers.

An oversupply of teachers is damaging because it results in graduate unemployment and knock-on consequences for attracting talented school-leavers to the profession.

A looming crisis in teacher supply, at both primary and post-primary levels, is spelled out in a confidential report seen by the Irish Independent.

It admits that the issues involved are complex, but warns "the teaching and learning needs of Irish students require that significant priority should now be given to these matters".

The expert group that prepared 'Striking The Balance' for the Teaching Council says work must start immediately on addressing the issues.

The recently-completed report was sought by former Education Minister Ruairi Quinn, and now it is up to the Teaching Council to deliver advice on the steps that need to be taken to deal with current difficulties, and avoid a worsening situation.

Primary schools all over the country are already suffering a shortage of substitute teachers - even to replace staff who are on predictable and long-term absences such as maternity leave.

According to the report, there are only enough substitutes available to work for 64pc of the days that schools require cover - with acute difficulties in some counties.

Meanwhile, post-primary schools are having problems recruiting teachers in a number of key subjects.

There is a lack of teachers of European languages, home economics and Irish and, at the same time, many more than are required for English, history and geography.

Getting the balance right depends on the one hand on pupil numbers, class sizes and, in the case of post-primary schools, catering for different subjects - and, on the other, managing the supply of teachers.

Fluctuations in population are a factor and the emerging challenges come at time when high birth rates since the end of the 1990s have resulted in an explosion in pupil numbers.

Between 2014 and 2018, primary school enrolments are expected to rise by about 30,000 to 574,000, while, by 2025, post-primary schools will have more than 400,000 pupils, for the first time in the history of the State.

A properly functioning system also needs to take account of additional teachers to cover absences, such as illness or career breaks, as well as retirements.

Based on current enrolment predictions and class sizes, the report estimates that there should be enough newly-qualified primary teachers over the next five years to meet needs.

However, any further reduction in primary class sizes - to which political parties have committed themselves, to varying degrees - would throw the sums out.

On the supply side, the report highlights the lack of co-ordination and consistency around intake into teacher training courses, and says it is time that process was properly regulated.

At the moment, the Department of Education controls numbers entering traditional primary teacher training colleges; the universities decide on intake into courses for post-primary teachers; and the private provider, Hibernia College, which trains in teachers for both levels, sets its own intake.

The report states that "greater policy co-ordination and consistency is essential if we are maintain the quality and standing of the teaching profession that we currently enjoy"

The Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) said ensuring teacher supply was an immediate challenge for the next government.

INTO general secretary Sheila Nunan said: "The next minister must make sure that enough teachers are trained to meet commitments for smaller classes."

In relation to problems over substitute teachers, she said: "The lack of cover for teacher absences can only be tackled by establishing supply panels of teachers available for substitute cover throughout the country."

Ms Nunan also said starting salaries in Ireland needed to be increased, to ensure that Irish teachers remained at home and did not go abroad to fill vacancies.

On the agenda: Junior Cert reform, pay, promotions, newly-qualified teachers, and third-level funding

INTO

Reversing the austerity-era cuts inflicted on salaries and promotional opportunities - particularly for newly qualified teachers - and schools will be a dominant theme at the Irish National Teachers' Organisation (INTO) conference, as well as at the other two conferences.

Primary class size is a hardy annual for the INTO, and the union will be reminding political negotiators engaged in trying to form a government about their pre-election promises in this regard.

ASTI

The ASTI is gearing for a double dose of strikes, threatening to close schools in the autumn. Stoppages are planned as part of ASTI's ongoing resistance to Junior Cert reform, although the TUI has signed up to it. But the ASTI and TUI are at one - if at odds with the overwhelming majority of public service unions - in rejecting the Lansdowne Road pay agreement, which could also see strikes in September.

TUI

With members at both second level and institutes of technology, much of the conference will be concerned with third-level issues, including the impact of funding cuts.

Plans for forced mergers of institutes of technology as a prerequisite for creating technological universities also very much on their agenda.
When it comes to computing, Dublin teenager Catrina Carrigan is well ahead of the Irish education system,

Far from waiting for the Government to put coding on the school curriculum here, the talented techie has played a key role in giving lessons in the subject in the UK.

A former student of Scoil Chatriona in Glasnevin, Catrina's formal introduction to computer science was through the volunteer-led CoderDojo club at nearby Dublin City University (DCU) when she was in Transition Year.

At the time, Catrina said computer studies at school would probably would have been about creating a Word document, and not computer programming.

The year Catrina started attending CoderDojo sessions was also the first year that the Coolest Projects Awards were introduced to encourage CoderDojoers to use the knowledge and skills they had developed at the clubs to create their own project.

Within months, the then 15-year-old had created a website to help users to learn how to play musical instruments such as piano, drums and guitar, and effectively to create their own online rock groups.

"It was about writing a code that says: when this button is pressed, it plays this sound," said Catrina.

That year, the Coolest Projects Awards were hosted by the tech giant Intel, which was also in conversation with the UK agency eSkills about developing a GCSE coding course for UK teens.

They hit on Catrina's project, which has gone on to become the basis of the Piano Rock Star game, and is currently used to teach programming skills to UK teenagers.

Catrina is now in first year at DCU studying computer applications. Looking back, she said she would have loved to have been able to study computer science for the Leaving Cert.

And if she'd had that choice, what subject might she have dropped? "Chemistry, probably."
A number of flights travelling between Dublin and London this morning were delayed due to high winds as Storm Katie continued to push across England and Wales.

As well as the delays, many early morning arrivals at Heathrow and Gatwick had to be diverted, and some flights were cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

Siobhan Moore, spokeswoman for Dublin Airport, said the storm is unlikely to present any further major disruptions to flights headed to and from the London airports today.

The storm has dominated the Easter weekend in the UK, but thankfully is not expected to affect Irish weather.

Storm Katie is gone, its over in the North Sea at the moment and its not going to affect us, a Met Eireann spokesperson told independent.ie.

It will be a cool day with sunshine and showers, becoming cold and frosty tonight, with temperatures plummeting close to freezing.

We can expect a similar day tomorrow, with showers initially in the west and then spreading east across the country in the afternoon.

Although it will be cool, there will be some bursts of sunshine as well throughout the day.
An armed garda on the streets after the recent gang violence

American diplomats and dignitaries attending the 1916 celebrations in the capital this weekend have been warned they face being caught up in Dublin's bitter gangland feud.

A three-page security document marked "for US private sector security purposes only" provided a detailed briefing on the warring factions of the Hutch and Kinahan gangs.

The alert for the Easter weekend events, obtained by RTE, was issued by the Irish branch of the United States Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC).

The body is operated by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security at the US Department of State, which is connected to the US embassy in Dublin.

The document advised the greatest risk of being caught in violence was in Northern Ireland where security services were on high alert fearing a dissident republican attack.

However, it also contained an explicit warning of "additional criminal incidents and assassination attempts related to the recent string of violence are possible".

At least four deaths have so far been linked to the violence: Gary Hutch (34), David Byrne (34), Eddie Hutch Snr (58) and Noel 'Kingsize' Duggan (57).

The threat assessment was circulated to Ireland-based members of the OSAC.

The group is primarily made up of American business people, diplomats and other high-profile US figures working or based in the country.

The threat assessment notes that the Continuity IRA was initially linked to the shooting of three individuals in the Regency Hotel attack. However, it states that the terror group later dismissed any link.

The document also makes specific reference to the "possibly related assassination" of Vincent Ryan, a prominent dissident republican and brother of former RIRA boss Alan Ryan.

According to the document, high-level US dignitaries attending 1916 events are also specifically told to "avoid speaking about events" connected to the celebration of the Rising.
Rory Smith (right) who was killed in road crash today

A motorcyclist was killed in a collision with a truck while taking part in an event to raise money for a suicide charity.

Plant operator Rory Smith (45), from Slane, Co Meath, was riding his motorbike in the Easter Poker Run when the tragedy struck.

In recent weeks, Mr Smith had revealed to friends that he was engaged to be married.

The Poker Run event involved motorcycle enthusiasts signing up to undertake a circuit and visiting various checkpoints along the way.

It started at the Boyne Valley Inn, Slane, at noon yesterday.

Each motorcyclist paid 10 to ride the circuit, with the money raised going to the Save Our Sons and Daughters (SOSAD) charity.

At around 1.40pm, Mr Smith was on the R157 Maynooth to Dunboyne road when he was involved in the accident with a truck.

Locals said that the section of road was "very bendy" but that weather conditions had not been particularly poor at the time.

Mr Smith's remains were removed to Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown.

Engaged

Gardai closed off the road for a forensic examination and it remained closed for a number of hours yesterday evening.

The truck driver was unhurt in the accident and there were no other injuries.

Slane councillor Wayne Harding (Fianna Fail) paid tribute to Mr Smith, whom he knew from his school days in the town.

"He was a very, very affable guy. He will be sadly missed by everybody who knew him. He was very funny and great fun.

"My deepest sympathies go to all of his family," he said.

A friend of Mr Smith, who was also involved in the Poker Run, told the Irish Independent that he was devastated.

"I can't eat right now, I can't talk, he was a very close friend of mine," he said.

Other friends began to post tributes on social media, expressing their shock.

"Devastating news, Rory Smith, you have always been a wonderful, kind person. Only spoke with you and as always we just laughed our asses off. My God, life is so cruel and you, my friend, are gonna be so missed," one wrote.

"I can't believe it. So sad, he was always laughing and joking and in the best of form. So sorry for all his family," another said.

Friends described him as "a true gentleman" and "a pure gent".

Fianna Fail councillor Damien O'Reilly, offered his condolences on behalf of the people of Dunboyne

Gardai have appealed for witnesses to contact Ashbourne Garda station on (01) 801 0600 the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any garda station.
500,000 worth of cocaine was seized during search at Coolquay, The Ward, Co Dublin. Photo: Garda Press Office

Gardai have dealt a significant blow against major drug traffickers after seizing half a million euro worth of cocaine.

The discovery was made during a search of a premises at Coolquay, The Ward, Co Dublin on Easter Sunday.

Officers from from the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau assisted by gardai from Finglas Garda Station carried out the intelligence led operation.

A spokesman for the garda press office explained that during the operation approximately seven kilos of cocaine, subject to analysis, with a street value of 500,000 was seized.

This seizure is regarded as a significant blow against criminals engaged in organised crime and it will seriously disrupt the illegal sale and supply of cocaine in The Dublin Region.

This is the third major drug seizure in the last number of days.

Seizures

Last Friday gardai arrested two men and seized drugs worth 120,000 in searches on Dublins southside.

Two men have been charged in connection with this seizure.

And last Wednesday gardai from Store Street Garda Station discovered 115,000 worth of cocaine and crack cocaine in connected searches.

Two false passports, mixing agents, scales and a quantity of cash were also seized.

No arrests have been made in connection with yesterdays seizure and investigations are continuing.

A garda spokesman said: These operations use advanced analytical and intelligence methods to disrupt criminals and dismantle their networks.

Drug seizures play a critical role in targeting the livelihood of criminals and reducing their ability to carry out illegal activities. Drug seizures also help protect communities from the devastating impact of drugs and the associated criminality.
The ERU and armed gardai were on patrol as the funeral of Noel 'Kingsize' Duggan took place in Co Meath this morning.

Hundreds of mourners joined his wife and three children for the mass, which was held amid tight security in light of the ongoing feud between the Kinahan cartel and associates of the late Gary Hutch.

Duggan (58), who was a close associate of Gary's uncle Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch, is believed to be the fourth victim of the feud.

He was shot dead on Wednesday of last week.

Armed gardai were seen patrolling the area close to where the funeral took place this morning.

Gardai maintained a visible presence as gangland victim Noel Kingsize Duggan was laid to rest today.

His grieving family embraced outside the Holy Trinity Church in Ratoath, Co Meath, as they were joined by hundreds of mourners for his funeral.

Priest

Speaking at the funeral Fr Brendan Ludlow described the murder as a "cruel, cowardly and callous act".

A number of uniformed and plain-clothes gardai were present amid tight security for the mass.

The coffin of Duggan arrived at the church shortly before 11am, accompanied by floral tributes spelling Grandad and Da.

Its believed Duggan was murdered as part of the deadly feud between members of the Kinahan Cartel and associates of Gary Hutch, the late nephew of Gerry Hutch, who was murdered in Spain last September.

However, this mornings garda presence was mild in comparison to the operations that took place around the funerals of Eddie Hutch Snr (59) and Kinahan associate David Byrne (34) in the capital last month.

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Friends and family of the deceased, including his distraught wife Belinda and his three children, Garreth, Daniel and Nicola, were among the large crowd of mourners this morning.

Duggan, nicknamed Kingsize because of his history in cigarette smuggling, was shot dead as he sat inside his car at his home in Ratoath on Wednesday of last week.

Family

Speaking to the Herald ahead of the mass, a close relative of the father-of-three said the family were living in fear and called for no retaliation.

Since this shooting, his family are terrified that they will become targets as well but they want to make it clear that they want no revenge for this.

The relative also explained that Duggan had been in such fear of his life as a result of the feud that he did not attend the funeral of Eddie Hutch Snr, the older brother of Gerry Hutch.

He did not go to Gerards brothers funeral because he did not want any attention on himself that could have led to what has happened.

No one in the family has slept since this happened, they added.

Duggan, who was considered a soft target like Eddie Hutch, is the fourth victim of the murderous feud between the Kinahan cartel and the Hutch mob and the third close associate of Gerry The Monk Hutch to be shot dead.

Smuggler

A criminal who made his fortune from cigarette smuggling, gardai said Duggan was never an active participant in armed robberies or drug dealing activities.

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It is believed Duggan had been spending time in the UK in light of recent events, and had only just returned to Ireland when he was murdered.

His murder comes a month after the shooting dead of Eddie Hutch Snr and David Byrne.

Taxi driver Eddie Hutch was shot dead at his home in Poplar Row, Ballybough, in Dublins north inner city on Monday, February 8th.

His killing was a direct retaliatory attack for the Regency Hotel assassination of David Byrne which occurred three days earlier.

A six-man hit team stormed the popular North Dublin hotel and killing Byrne and injuring two of his associates Sean McGovern (30) and Aaron Bugler (25).

The feud was sparked by the death of Gary Hutch (34), a former associate of the Kinahan who was shot dead in Spain by his former friends last September.
Gardai investigate at the scene beside the Royal Canal at Ashington in Dublin, where a father and son lost their lives yesterday. Photo: Arthur Carron

Gardai investigate the deaths of a father and son at the Royal canal at Ashington on the Navan road in Dublin. Picture: Arthur Carron

The broken fence that a tragic father and son walked through before falling to their deaths was fixed just two weeks ago.

Irish Rail has confirmed that they were alerted to the broken barrier near Ashington Green in Ashtown, North Dublin earlier this month and repairs were made on March 12.

On Sunday the bodies of Sean Sweeney (36) and his three-year-old son Tyler Joyce were discovered in a stream near the Royal Canal.

Gardai believe that they may have slipped and fallen after taking a shortcut through the broken fence from the Ashington estate to their home in Finglas.

Their bodies were discovered by a passer-by at about 3pm on Easter Sunday but it is not known how long they were in the water.

A post mortem carried out this afternoon has concluded that the father and son died from drowning.

Gardai believe that the pair died in a tragic accident and are satisfied that no crime occurred.

A file will now be prepared for the coroner's court.

A spokesman for Irish Rail explained that they manage the railings between the rail lines and the estate.

We repaired this fence on March 12th. It is an area where there is frequent interference with the fence and we have fixed it numerous times.

The spokesman said the damage was discovered by a line inspection team earlier this month.

He added that they will now be consulting with Dublin City Council about future plans for the area.

We will have talks to establish if anything can be done to make this area more secure.

Wall

Local councillor Brendan Carr called on the council, Irish Rail and Waterways Ireland - who manage the canal - to build a wall between the communities.

This is the second tragedy to happen in this area," said cllr Carr. "It is an ongoing issue with kids and others running across the tracks.

I would call on all the bodies involved to sit down and come up with a solution to stop anyone ever breaking through that fence again."

Post-mortems on the bodies were taking place this afternoon at the Dublin City morgue in Marino. The results will be known later this evening but are unlikely to be published.

A senior source said they are expected to confirm that the deaths were a result of a tragic accident.

The child's mother Pamela Joyce has been comforted by relatives. Tributes, including an Easter egg and daffodils, were left at the scene today.
An emotional Louise James is comforted by her brother Chris at the vigil in Buncrana. Below: Evan (left), Mark, and baby Rionaghach-Ann McGrotty. Photo: North West Newspix

Louise James, who lost five family members in the Buncrana pier tragedy, returned to the scene of the drowning last night to honour those who died.

A crowd of more than a thousand people travelled from near and far to unite in prayer for the family members who perished when their vehicle slipped into the icy waters of Lough Swilly.

People gathered on the shorefront of the Inishowen town in solidarity with Louise who lost her partner, two sons, sister and mother in the accident.

Minutes before the vigil started, Louise and her family - including her four-month-old baby daughter Rionaghach-Ann - slowly made their way to the spot where the events unfolded.

Five baskets of flowers were set afloat on the sea in memory of the five loved ones she lost.

The family then made their way just a few hundred yards to where the community had gathered on the shorefront at 7pm - almost to the minute when last Sunday's tragedy began.

Tears

Fighting backs tears, Louise addressed those present. "There's no words can describe how I'm feeling at the moment. I just want to say a big massive thank you to everybody for your words of support, kindness, generosity, everything. Thank you so much."

The crowd then erupted into a spontaneous round of applause as many wiped tears from the cheeks.

Local parish priest Fr Francis Bradley said those who gathered on the shoreline were there to support Louise and her family, and also to thank God for saving Rionaghach-Ann.

"Tonight another call for help goes out," he said. "And we know that this help will come. We gather in solidarity with Louise and Rionaghac-Ann.

"We thank God for what has been saved and we commend to him those who have been lost. But we do so as an Easter people filled with faith and hope."

Meanwhile, a brother of Sean McGrotty, who lost his life in the tragedy, told how the family had drawn support from all around the world.

Speaking at a ceremony in Derry, Frank McGrotty said the support had "been a great comfort to the family at this most tragic time".

As the Guildhall clock in the city centre struck seven the crowd stood for a minute's silence.

Those who died were Ruth Daniels (57), her daughter Jodie Lee (14), Sean McGrotty (49), and his sons Mark (12) and Evan (8).

Frank McGrotty told those gathered: "I have to say it has been a great comfort to the family to have the thoughts and support of the people of this city with us.

"Words escape me and I am still struggling to come to terms with what has happened, but the outpouring of support from across this city, this country and indeed worldwide has been tremendous."

The Derry vigil was organised by young local girl Kerry Moran, who felt that something should be done to mark the tragedy.
Shaykh Dr Muhammad Umar al-Qadri denounced the Brussels attacks but also urged Europeans not to blame Muslims for what had happened. Photo: Gerry Mooney

A leading Islamic cleric in Ireland who denounced extreme fundamentalism has admitted that he was "shocked" by the vilification he received for condemnation of the Brussels terror attacks.

Shaykh Dr Muhammad Umar al-Qadri denounced the Brussels attacks but also urged Europeans not to blame Muslims for what had happened. He said it was vital that governments realised that Muslims must be vital allies in "the war against terrorism".

The Dublin-based cleric revealed that in the days following his comments he was subjected to a sinister campaign of online abuse. He interpreted one comment posted about him as effectively calling for his silencing.

"Being accused of being a government agent is not worrying. But calling for my murder is shocking," he said.

Dr al-Qadri, who is the chairman of the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council, said that he had devoted his life to promoting cultural understanding and to defeating fundamentalism.

Last year, he launched a special website for Irish Muslims aimed at helping young people avoid radicalisation and allow those concerned about so-called 'Jihad messages' from radical preachers at Irish mosques to raise the alarm.

"Our unity is the defeat of extremism," he said.

Dr al-Qadri (pictured left) warned that "sinister elements" were now trying to stoke dangerous divisions between the Muslim and Christian communities in Ireland and across Europe.

The cleric will be the keynote speaker at a special Trinity College Dublin event on Thursday on preventing radicalisation, which will also see the launch of Ireland's anti-extremism declaration. He said the onus was on religious leaders to work hard to promote understanding and positive exchanges between faiths and communities.

His comments came as senior Islamic leaders slated as fake a website which hailed a "new golden age of Islam" through encouraging Muslims to migrate to Ireland.

The site, hijra2ireland.com, was slated by both Dr al-Qadri and Dr Ali Selim of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI).

A second social media site - which claims to represent an Islamic fundamentalist and contains offensive remarks about Christians - was set up with a Dublin address.
A PSNI officer at the scene where a wheelie bin was set on fire and left on the Dublin to Belfast railway line, the disturbance comes hours after Protestant Loyal Order the Apprentice Boys of Derry paraded through Lurgan in Northern Ireland Credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

A PSNI officer at the scene where a wheelie bin was set on fire and left on the Dublin to Belfast railway line, the disturbance comes hours after Protestant Loyal Order the Apprentice Boys of Derry paraded through Lurgan in Northern Ireland Credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire

Police have been attacked with petrol bombs in sporadic trouble in a republican area of Northern Ireland.

Officers also had to draw batons in angry confrontations with a crowd made up of mainly youths in the Kilwilkie estate in Lurgan, Co Armagh on Monday.

Tensions in the area have been running high as republicans seek to commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising.

Elsewhere in Lurgan, there had been concerns of trouble around an Easter Monday parade by the Apprentice Boys of Derry protestant loyal order, but that event passed off without incident.

In Kilwilkie a number of petrol bombs were thrown at police and a vehicle was set on fire.

The van was hijacked and set a blaze at the Lake Street railway junction in the early hours. Burning bins were placed at the rail line later in the day.

Three petrol bombs were thrown at officers who attended the hijacking and there were reports of other petrol bombs being hurled later on Monday.

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The disorder led to closures of the railway line, impacting the cross-border Enterprise service.

Ulster Unionist councillor Colin McCusker condemned those behind the trouble.

"Once again Lurgan's name has been dragged through the mud by republican thugs," he said.

"In the face of petrol bombs the PSNI have shown restraint."

On Saturday, masked men marched through Kilwilkie, a staunchly republican neighbourhood, to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising.

Police are investigating the incident as the parade was staged without the necessary permission.
Protestors dressed in period costume tried to upstage Arts and Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys during a State wreath-laying ceremony to honour the rebels of the 1916 Rising on Moore Street this afternoon.

Blowing whistles and shouting Humphreys out and Shame on you, members of the Save Moore Street protest group temporarily disrupted the synchronised wreath-laying ceremony.

The event took place at seven iconic locations of the Rising at precisely 1:15pm to mark the time when the first shots of the Rising were fired.

The noisy protest began as the acting minister approached a cordoned-off area outside number 16 Moore Street to lay one of two wreaths and was heckled.

In her speech, which was barely audible due to the protest, she paid tribute to those who fought for Irish freedom as well as the casualties of the insurrection, including 40 children who died after getting caught up in the gunfire.

The official State event went ahead nonetheless and descendants of those who fought in the Rising gave the minister a round of applause after the street went quiet for a minutes silence.

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After the event, however, members of Save Moore Street remained to carry on their protest as part of a campaign to protect a number of buildings on the street from demolition.

The street was the scene of the rebels ultimate surrender to British troops following heavy shelling of the GPO in which Rising leaders retreated to Moore Street.

They entered the former site of Dunnes Butchers at number five and tunnelled from one house to another until they reached Plunkets poultry shop at number 16 where they spent their final hours before surrender.

Many of the rebels died on the street and in the surrounding laneways.

The Save Moore Street group and the 1916 Relatives Group have been campaigning for a number of years to save buildings on the street from demolition.

They won a High Court injunction last week to halt demolition of some of the buildings, after Mr Justice Max Barrett declared the whole street a battlefield site.

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This is after the State bought numbers 14-17 to be designated a national monument but planned to demolish numbers 13-19 which Ms Humphreys, as Heritage minister, has claimed is  not historically important.

The matter is due back before the courts in April. The State has not indicated to date whether it will appeal the injunction.

However, Niamh McDonald of Save Moore Street called Ms Humphreys attendance at todays event the height of hypocrisy.

Our goal was to make Heather Humphreys know that we are not happy with her on the street, she said.
Everything about 'the land of honey' glistens and glimmers, says an enchanted Madeleine Keane.

Picture this: rolling verdant hills, a slice of terracotta sand and a bay of aquamarine water so clear you can see the stone wall built by the knights to stop ships entering this earthly paradise.

This was the vista upon which Ulysses was forced to gaze.

We're on the island of Gozo, also known as Homer's isle of Ogygia, where legend has it the nymph Calypso held the wandering Odysseus captive in her cave for seven years. Such is Gozo's alluring beauty that I'd willingly surrender to a lengthy spell here in a lover's arms.

We've taken the 25-minute ferry ride from Malta where my companion Declan and I are on a March mini-break. I first set foot here as a teenager and my memories are of a golden place. Some decades later and this is still the case.

For everything about this enchanting island glistens and glimmers - from its caramel-coloured buildings and the ornate interiors of its cathedrals to the sunny ambience, the sweet charm of its denizens, and a luminous light which bathes the shimmering sea - truly we are in 'the land of honey'.

Expand Close The Grand Harbour, Valletta, Malta, an island that has seen many invaders down the centuries, each of whom has left a mark on its history. / Facebook

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Whatsapp The Grand Harbour, Valletta, Malta, an island that has seen many invaders down the centuries, each of whom has left a mark on its history.

East of Tunisia, north of Libya and a stone's throw from Sicily, Malta's location has made it an obvious place of conquest - Phoenicians, Moors, Romans, Arabs, Spanish, French and British all descended on this small jewel - and thus it is rich in heritage and history.

A mere 7,000 years old, the Republic of Malta is home to some of the oldest standing stones in the world. On a balmy morning we visit the temples of Hagar Qim and Mnajdra where the massive slabs are testament to the potency of faith: with brute strength and driven by belief, the prehistoric settlers chose this idyllic location for their place of worship.

Later on Gozo, we'll walk around Gigantija, where as the name suggests, the megalithic tombs are even bigger (and earlier), and the 19th century graffiti is preserved as a salutary reminder to future vandals.

Among Malta's many crucial moments, the Great Siege of 1565 is one of the most significant. Driven out of Rhodes, the Knights of St John had been given the archipelago by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in 1530, which they then defended against the onslaught of the Ottoman Turks.

The Knights' victory in the Siege led to the foundation of Valletta, the island's vital, waterfront capital, where we visit St John's Co-Cathedral. A remarkable edifice, its austere exterior belies the sumptuous interior where there's more gold on display than the Federal Reserve, endless frescoes and statuary, nine treasure-laden chapels, pale pastel marble floors containing the tombs of around 400 Knights, and the Oratory, home to Caravaggio's superb masterpiece The Beheading of St. John (the only work he signed) as well as his St Jerome.

Over at the Grand Master's Palace, the state apartments are underwhelming, but there's a wonderful collection of tapestries and the Armoury which houses an exceptional collection of medieval armour and weaponry used by the Knights and their foe - "Thank goodness for Kevlar" quips Declan.

Then it's time to view the vast fortifications of the Grand Harbour before a small gondola takes us across the water to Vittoriosa, one of the Three Cities of the Cottonera District, and a much used locale for film settings (Gladiator, Asterisk and Obelisk and more recently Brangelina's By the Sea.)

We're both captivated by Mdina: once Malta's Roman capital and known as the Silent City, this exquisite place is protected by deep medieval walls.

Though thronged with tourists, its labyrinthine streets which are lined with the fine palaces of noble families (some of whom still live here) remain enigmatic, serene. Tradition has it that St Paul was shipwrecked on Maltese shores, and, in nearby Rabat (where catacombs abound), converted the islanders to Christianity.

After all these cultural riches, on the south west coast, where green fields laced with stone walls recall Connemara, another facet of Malta is revealed. The Cliffs at Dingli give a sense of the scale and orientation of the island.

It's hard to escape Malta's military history: the Interpretation Centre here was once home to the TACAN - the Tactical Air Navigation system and, following the departure of Britain's Royal Navy in the 1970s, remained derelict until a local family took it on, pioneering an eco/tourism initiative of preserving and educating visitors about the area's extensive indigenous fauna and flora.

Our final day is spent on Gozo and quelle finale.

If Malta is the handsome, worldly older sister, then Gozo is her wild and beautiful younger sibling. This place is gasp-inducingly lovely: each corner reveals a vista more spectacularly beautiful than the last - the Dwejra Azure Window (famously used in Game of Thrones) and the neighbouring Inland Sea (a popular diving spot) are stunning.

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The administrative capital, Victoria, demonstrates Gozo's self-sufficiency: they have their own courthouse, theatre, two opera houses, the Basilica of St George and an imposing Baroque cathedral. The latter with its extraordinary trompe l'oeil painted dome crowns the imperious Citadel, itself the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Juno, and where extensive European Union funds are being deployed in its impeccable restoration.

We walk around the ancient battlements, taking in the panoramic view of the islands before lunch in Ta Rikardu, an old stone house where Gozo cheese, which can made from either goat or sheep's milk is silky, fragrant, and served simply with tomatoes, red onions, olives and Maltese bread and followed by spaghetti with rabbit sauce (the bunny being a great favourite of the Maltesers) and accompanied by a delicate local white wine.

On the ferry home we pass baby sister. Comino, the third island completing the archipelago is tiny, home to one family who run the only hotel there which opens during the summer. When I fall in love, I always make sure I've an excuse to return.

Comino, I'm coming back.
Brendan finds a family holiday where adults get to have an adult experience while the kids are kept happy too.

I suppose you could say you like a place you're holidaying in when you decide to retire there. And what's more, I'm not even of retirement age. But you couldn't but notice how older people around the Guia de Isora area of Western Tenerife are outside living instead of inside dying by the fire in what is still pretty much winter in Ireland.

Every morning they are out walking by the sea. They also hang around, letting it all hang out, at the gorgeous little tidal pools along the seafront that have been walled off from the Atlantic. They hang around there, half-naked, chatting and dipping in and out of the pools, locals and what seemed to be

German ex pats. The deep mahogany of the ageing Germans suits the men better than the women I would have said. But I'd rather be outside getting leathery by the sea in my latter years than at home in the cold, stuck indoors, wondering if the flu was going to get me.

The tidal pools were necessary at times. You're on the Atlantic here and the sea can be wild. So they've put up these walls that break the waves and allow for a bit of genteel dipping. It does mean too when the waves are high that you can bob around in the pools and face the huge waves coming at you that are then diminished just as they are about to hit you.

This is far away from many people's ideas of the Canaries. And it is probably part of the conscious effort to rebrand the Canaries as a place of natural unspoilt beauty, which it is in many parts, I swear. The landscape isn't totally unspoilt but the interference in recent years is done with a sensitivity that wasn't always there.

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Our hotel, which is the Tenerife outpost of Thomson's excellent Sensatori brand, is built in a comparative wilderness near the small village of Alcala. But it looks like in conjunction with building the hotel there, they put a nice tasteful natural promenade, and a couple of little coves have been developed into little black-sand beaches.

We have a lot to learn from the Canarians in ways. The beaches are clean and organic-feeling but the facilities are excellent. The small beach we went to out near the front of the hotel had buoys across the entrance of the bay beyond which you didn't go, a very actively vigilant lifeguard watching all who dared get into the Atlantic; and good toilets and showers, as well as a nice wooden decking area for those who didn't want to get involved in black sand.

On days when the waves were high, the lifeguard would even personally give you specific guidelines on how far in he would tolerate you going. So essentially you were having a full-on nature experience and coming face to face with the elemental force of the sea, but it was all carefully managed for you without destroying the natural beauty and the natural feel.

In the middle of all this was the resort, which had everything on tap without feeling at all like your typical family resort. We liked to think that the crowd there were quite a cool bunch. There was a distinctly Balearic vibe and you suspected that before they had kids these people might have tended more to Ibiza than Tenerife.

But now we have kids, so the sunset party with the DJ playing chillout music every evening as the sun set over the neighbouring island of La Gomera, involved maybe just one or two drinks and kids running around. But the balcony out onto the sea was huge and stylish with designer lounging furniture, and if you ignored the kids - which you could because they all tended to entertain each other - you felt you were somewhere trendy and stylish.

Indeed, the whole hotel was beautifully done. The Italian restaurant was a glass box-type affair behind the chill-out balcony that also looked out to sea. There was a vast courtyard in the middle with huge trendy sofas everywhere that you could throw yourself down on at any point.

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My day started with a pre-breakfast dip in the huge seawater infinity pool that stretches the whole front of the property. I think it's the largest hotel pool in Europe, at about 200 metres long. Behind you is Mount Teide, the currently long-dormant volcano that gives the whole island the black cragginess, and in front of you the shimmering sea continuing on visually from the edge of the pool. And then it was time for the first buffet of the day.

I have a complex relationship with buffets. In one way it's probably not a good idea for a food addict to be confronted by every type of food under the sun and told he can eat as much of it as he wants. The sheer variety of it means that it would feel wrong not to try everything.

I marvel at the other holiday makers and how they pick tiny bits of everything, and eat it gingerly and sensibly, having just one plate per course, or perhaps even per meal. My view is that if something is nice and there are unlimited amounts of it on offer you have a duty to eat more of it.

Breakfast-wise, it takes me a few days of a scattergun approach of trying everything to settle down into my sensible three-course breakfast buffet, which is the egg-and-bread course, the bun course (a doughnut course in this instance) and a melon-and-kiwi course to ease my conscience.

On this holiday, my problem was exacerbated by the fact that we were on full board, so there was another buffet for lunch and another for dinner. The gaps between eating became smaller and smaller each day. And, of course, the buffet paradox applied. The buffet paradox states that the more you eat, the more you are capable of eating and the more you are constantly hungry. You could put it down to the outdoor life and the sea air, but I think it's largely to do with availability. As the week went on, I even found myself starting to eschew the table-service restaurants that were also available. I started to feel resentful about having to commit to one specific thing for my meal, and about having my intake of food controlled and limited by a chef and a waiter.

Why should I commit to a set amount of something that I may not like, when I could have unlimited amounts of everything in the buffet? Having said that, there is a certain anxiety about buffet-eating. You tend to horse the food down fast so you can get back on your feet and get something else. And there is always the worry that they may run out of something if you don't hurry up, though this never happened.

Still, Buffet Fomo is a real problem for the addict.

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Mornings were spent at the pirate pool with the slides where the kids would all essentially look after each other in a Lord of the Flies-style scenario while the parents pretended to keep an eye. The main thing was not to get caught too often having to be the parent who ended up playing with the kids. If you started playing with your own ones, the others would all quickly congregate on you and you'd find yourself in a pied piper situation around the pool. The other thing was you had to check with all the parents, who were busy trying to look the other way in case they got caught for duty, if it was OK to do various throwing around of their children, who were begging to be next to be spun around in mid air.

We would spend some recovery time in the room from the lunchtime buffet before hitting the family pool, which was a step up from the pirate pool, and where proper swimming could be done. Ours would tire of that pretty quickly and would want a break from the sun so we would obligingly throw them into the kids' club for an hour or two while we hit the beach or the tidal pools.

Then, feeling all relaxed and day-at-the-beach-y we'd have a couple of Campari and oranges or Aperol spritzes at the sunset chill-out session before hitting dinner. Apart from the buffet there was a choice of fine dining, Asian, tapas, Italian or a la carte Spanish and seafood.

We had been to Sensatori in Turkey before and we loved it. Tenerife reinforced our view that this is a family holiday where the adults get to have an adult experience while the kids are kept happy too, so basically everyone gets to relax without feeling you're in Butlins or some claustrophobic family resort.

Indeed, it's probably telling that we didn't really yearn to escape the place at all and we ended up doing none of the various trips we had planned, contenting ourselves with shuffling into the little port village a couple of nights for a beer and some padron peppers, and to let the kids buy some rubbish in the shops and play in the playgrounds.

It's rare that you zone out on a trip to a family resort, But that's what happened. And all the people with young families seemed to be having the same experience. One couple even told me they left their rental car sitting in the car park for the week. They didn't want to interrupt the zoning out.

Take three: top attractions

Mount Tiede

Counterpoint to the Canarian sunshine are the snow-capped mountains of Tenerife and the volcano, Mount Teide. Teide gives Tenerife's beaches their black volcanic sand and a day trip to the volcano gets you right up close to the crater. Not for the vertigo-prone, a cable-car ride takes you up 1,200ft and offers spectacular views of Tenerife and even across to the neighbouring island of La Gomera. See tenerifecoteide.com

Thrills and Spills

If the kids need a break from the beach, a visit to Siam Park is worth a go. Siam Park is a water park, with rides from the lazy-river variety to sheer-drop slides so adrenaline junkies as well as younger families are all catered for. There's even a warm-water wave pool. For when you want to dry off there are bars, restaurants and a Thai-themed floating market. For ticket offers, see siampark.net

Garachico

The south of Tenerife is the well-trodden destination for most Irish holidaymakers, but the north is worth exploring. Check out the small town of Garachico, once submerged in lava after an eruption of Mount Teide, and unspoilt by high-rise development. Garachico is like a small seaside town in mainland Spain, with squares, small bars, quirky shops and natural swimming pools dug out of the volcanic rock.

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Billy Keane Opinion Even a dash to the Croke Park toilet wasnt enough to get rid of space invader who gave me Covid

I did the time, but there was no crime. Banged up I was, under house arrest after two red bars showed up on the Covid test. Im not too bad, thanks for asking. I have it down on a man who was nearly close enough to kiss me at the All-Ireland football final between Kerry and Galway.
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.
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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.
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What will it take to unite Ireland? Opinions are divided

There are those for whom Northern Ireland is a geographical fragment of the UK holding true to empire on its western flanks, and those for whom partition is a century-old wrong that must be overturned. Somewhere in the middle are the persuadables  people willing to accept either unity or union, so long as the justification is logical. One way or another, the unity conversation is in the air.
It won't only be a minister for education that teacher conferences will be missing this year.

The current political hiatus creates a huge policy vacuum, with no one quite sure that direction some education issues may take, once a government is formed.

That lack of certainty will take the edge off the focus of some debates, because if you don't know what the issues are, it is hard to land a necessary metaphorical punch.

Yes, the annual teacher conferences can be described as talking shops - a teacher whingefest, even - by the harshest critics, but they do provide an opportunity for both teachers and their political masters to ventilate their views.

The daily cacophony emanating from conference halls means the public can't avoid absorbing the issues. And whether they listen intently or not, these are things they need to know about - because teachers are at the front line of the education system to which they entrust their children.

And behind all the noise, the conferences are useful platforms for the various players to take stock and focus - or perhaps refocus - on the next move.

When Ruairi Quinn took over as minister for education five years ago, he started interesting and necessary conversations about the Irish education system, and set in train a series of reforms that met with varying degrees of agreement, and disagreement.

So education was a lively item on the agenda of the Fine Gael Labour coalition, not least because the two parties didn't always agree among themselves on the Labour ministers' priorities, but a lot of unfinished business remains.

Where will a new administration stand on issues such as Junior Cert reform, against which one union continues to hold out?

The ASTI's "no surrender" policy now includes the threat of school strikes in September, and the lack of a government, and a minister at the conference, represents a lost opportunity for dialogue.

What appetite will the new Government have for issues around school admission policies, including the so-called baptism barrier, about which so much was promised and so little delivered in the past five years? A new minister could have given us a clue this week.

Legislation on new-style technological universities didn't get over the line before the election was called.

There is mixed political opinion on the detail of this idea, which envisages forced mergers of institutes of technology. Whither now?

Never mind the last programme for government, the report on a looming crisis in teacher supply referred to elsewhere on these pages, is an example of trouble fast coming down the line, for which immediate political attention is required.

June 2016 is one of the deadlines mentioned in the document. It would allow for a more informed discussion on this subject at the conferences this week, if there was a minister in charge.

The next incumbent in Marlborough Street must ensure that the lost conference week does not turn into a longer delay in advancing necessary reforms.
Dublin 2016, the Luas drivers are preventing workers from entering the city to honour James Connolly. In the Dail, from where guidance should come, no one knows what uncouth beast will eventually slouch off towards Bethlehem. A terrible ugliness is born.

As we take stock on this, the 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising, we can see, dismayed though we are, that there is a certain logic to all this.

The public have responded with anger and confusion at being forced to take on billions in private debt, and have in effect said "a plague on all your houses" to the political parties, and strikes - no matter how ill conceived - were bound to erupt as wage freezes ended.

Let us never forget that the word 'austerity' in Ireland means that more people died from suicide during the seven or eight austerity years than in all the 30 years of the Troubles. (In just the six years from 2007-2012 alone, the National Suicide Research Federation lists 3,057 deaths from suicide. In the Troubles between 1968 and 1998, 3,532 people were killed). Let us never forget a generation forced into emigration from a crippling unemployment, homelessness, the withdrawal of vitally needed money for special needs children and equally vitally needed medical cards for the over-seventies.

On top of this, now we see Fianna Fail, who presided over all of this, and Fine Gael, who let rural Ireland die and crime flourish, now dance around each other, trying to see who can get the best dowry for a loveless marriage of convenience.

There are seven votes between them (after the appointment of the Ceann Comhairle); seven votes passed the Treaty and brought this State into being, seven votes led to a Civil War. Now is the opportunity, on this most fitting of anniversaries, to finally end that war.

Whatever happened to idealism?

Recently, I came across an interview I did with Kathleen Clarke, Tom Clarke's widow, on the 50th anniversary of the Rising for my first book, 'Ireland Since the Rising'. But as is the way of publishing, it ultimately went out of print and the Clarke interview went with it. On this, the 100th anniversary, I feel a contemporary newspaper readership would appreciate the opportunity of assessing the calibre of the women of 1916, leaving them to make their own comparisons with what is currently happening in the Dail and workplace.

She was detained in the Castle when an officer came and said: "I had permission to see my husband. 'My God, Kathleen, said one of the girls, what does that mean?' 'It means death, I said.' 'Oh no,' said the girl; Marie Perolz was her name. 'Look,' said I, 'do you think that if the British government were going to send my husband on a journey any shorter than to the next world they would get an officer and a car out at midnight to go for me?' "You're a stone,' said the girl. I was.

"We were stopped several times. There were snipers on a lot of rooftops and I didn't think we would be let go on but the officer showed his pass and we got through. Killmainham was terrible. The conditions! There was a monk downstairs.

"He told me that my husband had put him out of the cell. There was no light in it, only a candle that a soldier held. 'Why did you surrender?' I asked Tom. 'I thought you were going to hold out for six months.' 'I wanted to but the vote went against me,' he said. We talked about the future the whole time, I never saw him so buoyed up. He said that the first blow had been struck and that Ireland would get her freedom but would have to go through hell first.

"He had to face the ordeal by himself in the morning. If I broke down, it might have broken him down. I said, 'What did you do to that priest down there?' 'That damned fellow came in here,' he said, 'told me he would give me confession if I would admit that I was wrong and that I was sorry. I am not sorry, I told him that I gloried in what I had done.' I was expecting a baby but didn't tell him that in case it might upset him.

"I asked an officer to have his body sent to me. He hemmed and hawed and said he had no instructions about it. In the end, he promised to do something, but he wrote to me after to say I could not have the body. I walked home from the Castle to Fairview; there was a smell of burning in the air. I had to walk in the middle of the road because things were falling off the roofs. In O'Connell Street, a big policeman stopped me. When I told him who I was and where I was going, he said, 'You'd better go down Fairview, Maam. There are some soldiers up at Parnell's monument and they are not very nice.' I had to climb over a big pile of rubble in North Earl Street. The bricks were still hot. I never met a sinner all the way home.

"I had sent the children down to Limerick and there was no one in the house. I don't drink but I had whiskey and brandy in the house in case any wounded were brought in. Now, I thought, I'll have one 24 hours of oblivion; and I took out a bottle of port and filled myself out a glass. I thought it was strong but I was awake again in an hour.

"My sister came up from the country and that night a lorry came and took us to Kilmainham to say goodbye to my brother. I heard it coming before any of them and I said, 'They are coming to take us to Ned. He is going to be shot.' They thought I was going off my head. But a few minutes later, we all heard it. Then it stopped outside the house. My sister didn't want me to go but I insisted. My brother was in uniform. He looked about 18.

"There was a group of officers outside the cell; they seemed to have some spite against him. The soldier holding the candle had been in my husband's firing party. He said my husband was the bravest man he'd seen. I lost the baby a week later. I don't know if it was a boy or a girl.

"I worked at the prisoners' fund. It saved me from going mad. God must have put the idea in my head."

For several months after, she was the person who kept the revolutionary flame alive. She ran the National Aid Association which helped to alleviate the hardships of families and survivors.

Kathleen had only seen the Rising as round one in the fight for independence.

On his release from Frongoch, she handed over the running of the fund to someone who thought like her - Michael Collins.
I thought you would be interested in looking at the following letter, found while I was doing research for my unpublished book Cameos of Kerry - Impressions of an Outsider. From the National Archive in Kew, London, it was written by Maud Gonne MacBride, a prisoner at Holloway Jail in London.

Some idea can be gained of the conditions the Irish female prisoners were experiencing at Holloway Jail - a prison for women - in one paragraph, which was deleted completely by the official military censor and has not been made public until now.

The first and final paragraphs of her letter were published at the time in the Irish Independent.

Her final sentence is a scathing attack on the vindictiveness of the British judicial system towards the Irish freedom fighters.

The letter reads: "We are allowed to write and to receive three letters a week, but as I get letters I get no answers. I doubt if any of my letters get beyond the Censor's offices.

"One letter was returned to me because it contained more than 20 lines which, I was then told, was the limit assigned to our letters, and replies are limited to 30 lines.

"I have asked repeatedly since the day of my arrival here to see a Solicitor, but I am not allowed. We are not allowed Irish or Labour papers. No charge has been brought against us, yet we are shut up in cells seven feet by 13, with window too high to see out of, and [an] air opening about half a foot, 18 hours out of 24. We meet in the exercise yard while cells are being cleared and for about an hour in the afternoon [whole paragraph deleted by Censor]

"No writing materials are allowed. Pen and ink taken away directly weekly letters written. Please insist on open trial. Our treatment is specimen of English justice".

John Bentley

Ledbury Hefordshire

Luas strikes and the public

The Luas strikers could bring about the end of public transport in Ireland if not tamed now. The taxpayer invested in the Luas system, and its operator staffed it with well-paid people enjoying excellent work conditions.

These workers have made outrageous wage demands backed by strikes. They aren't happy to just inflict losses on their employer after the normal fashion of a strike, but are incensed by moves to assist the public by providing alternative means of transport - in other words, they seem to believe the Luas system belongs to them. They have shown clearly that they wish to hurt their customers.

If they hurt the customers enough they will surely protest to the extent that whatever wages are demanded will be conceded. These actions may or may not fit the legal definition of blackmail, but they certainly fit a moral definition. Does the public have to tolerate this abuse of power? Is Siptu not deeply ashamed to be associated with it?

The wage settlements offered are already excessive. Their knock-on effect on Irish Rail, the Dart, Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann could help bring on the death knell of transport in Ireland, making ever-increasing subsidies necessary to meet wage demands as there are limits to what the travelling public can afford to pay.

Solution? I suggest the wage offers already made under duress should be withdrawn and all negotiations suspended - to recommence only after six strike-free months. Any new agreement must contain assurances of reasonable behaviour with sanctions.

Patrick Duffy

Idrone Terrace, Blackrock, Co Dublin

******

Luas operatives reject a pay deal, basic salary 36k. New gardai earn 23k per year as they start in a job in which their life can be threatened. Have I sympathy for Luas staff? Absolutely not.

Tom Kelly

Newbridge, Co Kildare.

******

The irony of a Luas strike during the Easter 2016 commemorations is that one of the very men at the centre of the commemorations, James Connolly, was involved in the Irish Transport and General Workers Union. Curious that its successors would consider depriving the public of transport to such an event.

Kieran Cummins Trim, Co Meath

Post-election disaffection

While I recognise that much of the Dublin-based media are busy acting as cheerleaders for a Fine Gael-Fianna Fail grand coalition, there is one possibility for an alternative government that has been largely ignored.

Were Fianna Fail, Sinn Fein, the Social Democrats and a number of Independents willing to agree a common policy platform, they would command a working majority in Dail Eireann. This potential coalition could have a cabinet including such capable, competent individuals as Stephen Donnelly, Mary Lou McDonald, Billy Kelleher, Peadar Toibin, Shane Ross and Dr Michael Harty.

Regrettably, Fianna Fail has apparently decided not to even negotiate with Sinn Fein. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein appears determined to reject even the possibility of government and has instead chosen to remain hurling on the ditch in the ridiculous hope it may one day lead some form of hard-left regime, a political philosophy the Irish people have consistently rejected. It is time for both members of the estranged Irish republican family to put aside their differences and form the nucleus of a new administration that will be both socially progressive and economically rational. We can only hope.

Dr Ruairi Hanley

Bush Road, Gibbstown, Navan

******

Fine Gael thought they were the Tories. They weren't. Fianna Fail thought it was forgiven. Not quite. Sinn Fein thought its leader would be Taoiseach. He won't. AAA-PBP thought there'd be anarchy on the streets, but that was just a rush to an open till at Lidl.

And the Independents all sang separate hymns, making a less than beautiful noise, with the Healy-Rae brothers singing from the same sheet. I can think of only one solution to this mess: another election.

Brian Ahern

Meadow Copse, Clonsilla, Dublin 15

******

Why is it that those who are chosen to represent us in the Dail are so reluctant to serve? Surely it is their duty to put the country above their personal ambitions and form a government as we electors requested?

There is a fine word for such type of politicians: a 'snollygoster' - "an unscrupulous person guided by personal advantage". Over to you, Mr President. A prod from your direction wouldn't go amiss.

Joe Neal

Castlebridge, Wexford
Could the romance between Courteney Cox and Johnny McDaid be rekindled?

The couple was spotted out and about in Malibu together on Easter Sunday according to the Daily Mail, sparking speculation that they could be getting back together.

Former Friends star Courteney (51) and Snow Patrol rocker Johnny (39) were snapped shopping with Courteney's daughter Coco (11) who she shares with ex-husband David Arquette.

They had split in December with Johnny returning to his native Northern Ireland and Courteney remaining in Malibu.

They began dating in 2013 and McDaid proposed after a whirlwind romance of just six months.

The musician had been linked to former MTV reporter Meghann Scully last month but a spokesman for the star told MailOnline that Johnny was not dating anyone and "hasn't since Courteney Cox".

Expand Close Johnny McDaid, director Courteney Cox and daughter Coco Arquette arrive at the Los Angeles Special Screening of "Just Before I Go" at ArcLight Hollywood on April 20, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic) / Facebook

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Whatsapp Johnny McDaid, director Courteney Cox and daughter Coco Arquette arrive at the Los Angeles Special Screening of "Just Before I Go" at ArcLight Hollywood on April 20, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic)
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their children, Princess Charlotte and Prince George, enjoy a short private break skiing in the French Alps. Picture: John Stillwell/PA Wire

Kate Middleton has revealed how the Queen likes to spoil her great-grandchildren George and Charlotte.

Speaking in an interview for ITV documentary Our Queen at 90, she said the British monarch was thrilled when Charlotte was born in May 2015.

"The Queen was very pleased that she was a girl," said Kate. "The Queen is very fond of Charlotte and takes an interest in what she gets up to.

"Every time we stay with her, she leaves a little gift for George and Charlotte in their rooms. I think that just goes to show her love for [George and Charlotte] and for the family."

Kate also said she was delighted to have a daughter.

"It's very special having a new little girlI feel very, very lucky that George has got a little sister," she said. "The Queen was really thrilled that it was a little girl, and I think as soon as we came back here to Kensington she was one of our first visitors here."

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Whatsapp July 2015: Britain's Prince George arrives for the christening of his sister Princess Charlotte at the Church of St Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham Estate in King's Lynn, July 5, 2015 REUTERS/Chris Jackson/Pool

The Duchess of Cambridge also praised the Queen for supporting her as she adjusts to life in the public eye.

"She's been a gentle guidance," she said.

Expand Close The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their children, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte, who was christened at Sandringham on Sunday Photo: Mario Testino / Art Partner / Facebook

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Whatsapp The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their children, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte, who was christened at Sandringham on Sunday Photo: Mario Testino / Art Partner

"The most memorable day for me was during a visit to Leicester. I went without William so I was a little apprehensive.

"Everyone in the family teases me because I spend far too much time chatting than I should. So I do have a lot to learn still, I suppose.

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"But that day, the Queen took time to make sure I was happy and looked after on that occasion. Again, that shows just how caring she is really."
Keeley Hawes has said filming The Missing would be "torturous" were it not for her three children.

The 40-year-old actress is starring in the forthcoming second series of BBC One's acclaimed drama alongside The Walking Dead's David Morrissey.

The new case follows Sam (played by Morrissey) and Gemma (Line Of Duty's Hawes), whose daughter Alice went missing in 2003.

Eleven years later, Alice (newcomer Abigail Hardingham) collapses after being found stumbling through the streets in Germany.

Her return sends shockwaves through a small community.

During an interview with the Radio Times, Hawes revealed part of her preparation for the role involved reading the autobiography of Kate McCann, mother of Madeleine who has been missing since 2007.

When asked if she is able to leave a perturbing subject matter behind after the cameras stop rolling, the actress pointed to her role as a mother.

"I think it's much easier when you have three children," she said. "You go home and ... it's inevitable that you have to be there for them, in a totally different world.

"When you're doing something like The Missing, it's important to keep things light off set, because otherwise it would be torturous."

Told in dual timelines between 2014 and the present day, The Missing follows Alice's family as they are thrown back into a turmoil that threatens to tear them apart.

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The debut run in 2014 featured Cold Feet's James Nesbitt.

Born in London, Hawes' television breakthrough came as Zoe Reynolds in the hit BBC spy drama Spooks.

She met her second husband Matthew Macfadyen, who played MI5 Intelligence Officer Tom Quinn, on the set.

The couple have a son and a daughter together. Hawes also has a 15-year-old son from her first marriage to cartoonist Spencer McCallum.

The Upstairs Downstairs star took the opportunity to talk about more challenging parts for women beyond the usual archetypes of "wife', "mother" or "girlfriend".

"It's not going to happen overnight," she told the magazine.

"But the more we give people the chance to know that there are those opportunities, the more women will stand up and take them up."

After Spooks, Hawes went on to capture the imagination of the viewing public as Detective Inspector Alex Drake in time-travel series Ashes To Ashes, opposite Philip Glenister as the combative Gene Hunt.

She starred in the 2010 BBC One revival of Upstairs Downstairs, but made a bigger impression on BBC Two four years later as corrupt policewoman Lindsay Denton in Line Of Duty.

A revelation in the role of the amoral policewoman, Hawes was lauded for her performance and received a Bafta nomination for leading actress.

She will next be seen in new ITV drama The Durrells, which also features Hollywood film star Leslie Caron, best known for musicals An American In Paris and Gigi.

The Durrells is based on Gerald Durrell's trilogy of memoirs and is set in 1935.

The story focuses on Louisa, played by Hawes, whose life is in turmoil in the UK.

Louisa's husband died years ago, she is running out of money and her four unruly children are going off the rails.

Over six episodes, the Durrell family's fortunes will be followed as Louisa decides to uproot her clan for a new life in Corfu.

"It's an enormous undertaking," Hawes says of her character. "She's really, really brave."

:: The Durrells is broadcast on ITV at 8pm on April 3.
Is there anything more disturbing than uniformity?

Think of George Orwell's dystopian future; of the twin girls in Stephen King's The Shining, or The Children of the Corn; of Ira Levin's Stepford Wives. All of these horrifying beings had one major thing in common  their clothing. How is it, then, that this horror fare has made its way into the mainstream?

Today, we are  more than ever before  happy to dress like one another. There was a time  not so long ago  when women would baulk at the idea that they'd be caught dead in the same item as a friend or acquaintance. Now, it's an inevitability  at a wedding, on Friday nights out, even at Sunday brunch.

Two of you rock up in the same Self Portrait dress - you compare notes on your River Island Molly jeans; you and a friend hashtag twinsies! on an Instagram shot of your matching embroidered Zara bomber jackets. But when did it become so acceptable to be so utterly boring and predictable?

Perhaps it's an Irish thing. We're not, after all, famed for our love of the limelight, and making a statement by means of our clothing stinks of the most embarrassing concept of all: that of having notions. Sure, isn't it easier to play it safe and blend in? You couldn't be rocking up to a friend's wedding in that out-there dress  sure, you'd look mad!

And we're none of us immune - a few short years ago, I was stacking my jingly-jangly charm bracelets with aplomb  just beyond my Michael Kors watch, which complemented my YSL Arty ring perfectly (so very 2010). Sure, there have always be must-haves, at least in the world of fashion, from Fendi's Spy bag to Mulberry's Alexa, or J Brand's Love Story jeans  but lately, it seems as if nothing's worth having if six of your friends don't have it too.

This sartorial uniformity has a lot to do with the idea of the basic bitch: the girl who adores Kate Middleton, takes her Michael Kors handbag everywhere and just can't live without her favourite pair of nude heels. And it's no surprise, really, when you look at where people are getting their fashion inspiration from.

10 years ago, it was glossy magazines  and whatever accusations you can lay at their feet in terms of shilling a totally unaffordable wardrobe, at least they offered inspiration in the form of artistic, original fashion shoots.

Today's #inspo? Well, that'd be coming from Instagram and Pinterest, and online influencers such as Jules Sarinana (sincerelyjules.com) and Blair Eadie (atlantic-pacific.com) and, closer to home, Pippa O'Connor (pippa.ie) and Suzanne Jackson (sosueme.ie)  sharing snapshots of their insta-perfect lives, complete with glossy hair, skinny jeans and nude heels aplenty. It's no wonder we want to look like them  and the internet means that we can, down to the very same Zara bomber jacket, shopped directly from their feed and delivered to your door in less than 24 hours.

If it's a tide of change, it's one that seems almost unstoppable. And who knows? Perhaps in another 10 years' time, the phrase on Wednesdays, we wear pink, won't seem quite so laughable.
A teenage boy has been arrested over the theft of a fibreglass and metal version of a spaceship from outside the UFO Museum in Roswell.

Police say they are still searching for two other suspects.

The model spaceship has been a fixture in Roswell, where it was long mounted outside the UFO museum before a recent snowstorm damaged it.

It was being stored behind the museum before it was stolen on March 19.

Police say surveillance video showed three people hauling the spaceship off in a pick-up vehicle.

The saucer was found in pieces two miles west of Roswell last Wednesday.

Police say tips led them to the teenager, who was arrested on Saturday at his home in south Roswell, New Mexico. His name was not being released.

Roswell still stirs debate about extraterrestrials seven decades after the 1947 crash of a flying object.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel will appoint the black head of the police department's patrol division as interim police chief on Monday, rejecting finalists chosen by a civilian board as he tries to rebuild trust in a department facing federal investigation and racism accusations.

Emanuel's office said he will name Eddie Johnson, a veteran of the force who grew up in a city housing project, as acting police superintendent at a news conference at 3pm.

Local media said Emanuel hoped to give him the job permanently after complying with hiring rules.

Emanuel's decision underscores the political sensitivities in naming a successor to Garry McCarthy, who was ousted as superintendent in December after days of protests over a white officer's shooting of black teenager Laquan McDonald.

The city delayed for more than a year the release of video that led to first-degree murder charges against the officer, prompting calls for Emanuel's resignation. The Democratic mayor, who was re-elected last year, has vowed to complete his second four-year term.

In the aftermath of the protests, the US Justice Department launched an investigation into Chicago police shootings.

At public hearings over choosing a new police leader, many Chicagoans said they wanted an African-American superintendent and expressed concerns about racism on the force and ineffective discipline after police misconduct.

Of 405 people shot by Chicago police over the past eight years, 74pc were black. The city's population is about one-third black.

The Chicago Police Board picked three finalists, including a top administrator with the Chicago police, and two of them are black. Johnson had not applied for the job.

"While each of the finalists had strong qualifications, the mayor did not feel that any of them were the complete package that Chicago needs at this time and thus none were offered the position," Emanuel's spokeswoman, Kelley Quinn, said.

Emanuel concluded only an insider could restore the trust of African Americans after the release of the video, the Chicago Sun-Times reported, citing unnamed sources. The last two chiefs came from outside.

Johnson is a Chicago native who lived until age 9 in the Cabrini Green housing project, joined the police department as a patrolman in 1988 and has held several supervisory roles. The mayor's office said he has a strong track record in fighting crime and has received a number of policing awards.

The law requires Emanuel to pick a candidate recommended by the board. Local media reported he will comply with the law by asking the board to conduct another search and encourage Johnson to apply.

The rejected finalists included two African-Americans: Cedric Alexander, DeKalb County, Georgia public safety director, and Eugene Williams, Chicago's police deputy superintendent.

Anne Kirkpatrick, retired Spokane, Washington police chief, is white.
A couple embrace in front of tributes placed in a memorial for victims of the recent attacks on Brussels at the Place de la Bourse in Brussels.

People gather at a street memorial in Brussels following the bombings in Brussels

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has spoken out against the "fear and distrust" spread by the recent wave of terror attacks - and called for love and empathy to combat them.

The tech entrepreneur said atrocities in Belgium, Pakistan and Turkey were all designed to sow seeds of hatred between different communities.

Writing on his Facebook page, he wrote: "Each of these attacks was different, but all had a common thread: they were carried out with a goal to spread fear and distrust, and turn members of a community against each other.

"I believe the only sustainable way to fight back against those who seek to divide us is to create a world where understanding and empathy can spread faster than hate, and where every single person in every country feels connected and cared for and loved.

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"That's the world we can and must build together."

At least 70 people were killed and 300 injured when a Taliban splinter group detonated a bomb in a park while children were playing on Easter Sunday.

The militants said they deliberately targeted the Christian community in the attack, launched on the holiest day of the Christian calendar.

It came after atrocities in Brussels in Belgium and Ankara in Turkey, killing dozens more.

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Facebook has been criticised for mistakenly asking users hundreds of miles away from the bombing in Lahore, Pakistan, if they were safe.

Explaining the reasoning behind this new safety check, Mr Zuckerberg added: "Over the last two months, we have activated Safety Check several times for acts of terror - including in Turkey and Belgium - so people in the area can let their friends and loved ones know they're safe."
An investigator works the site of a mass shooting in San Bernardino, California (AP)

The FBI has successfully used a mystery technique without Apple's help to break into an iPhone linked to the gunman in a California mass shooting.

The surprise development effectively ends a court battle between Apple and the Obama administration.

The US government told a court that it had accessed data on gunman Syed Farook's iPhone and no longer requires Apple's assistance.

Farook and his wife died in a gun battle with police after killing 14 people in San Bernardino, California, in December.

Apple did not immediately comment on the development.

A US magistrate last month ordered Apple to provide the FBI with software to help it hack into Farook's work-issued iPhone.

The order sparked a debate pitting digital privacy rights against national security concerns.
Donald Trump has said he is open to the idea of both Japan and South Korea developing their own nuclear deterrents and would like to withdraw US troops from their soil.

In perhaps his most detailed explanation yet about his foreign policy plans if he were to be elected president, Mr Trump told a US newspaper that allowing the two countries to do this would reduce pressure on the US to come to their defence every time North Korea acted aggressively. He also said he would consider stopping oil purchases from Saudi Arabia unless the Saudi government provided troops to fight Isil.

"There'll be a point at which we're just not going to be able to do it any more. Now, does that mean nuclear? It could mean nuclear," Mr Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination, told the 'New York Times'.

Mr Trump said the US "cannot be the policeman of the world" and suggested that Tokyo and Seoul would move to develop their own weapons regardless, if the US continued along what he described as a path of "weakness".

"Would I rather have North Korea have [nuclear weapons] with Japan sitting there having them also? You may very well be better off if that's the case," Mr Trump said.

"If Japan had that nuclear threat, I'm not sure that would be a bad thing for us."

During the extensive interview, Mr Trump was asked about halting oil purchases from US allies unless they provided on-the-ground forces against Isil. "The answer is, probably yes," he said.

Mr Trump has said that the United States should be reimbursed by the countries to which it provides protection, even those with vast resources such as Saudi Arabia, a leading exporter of oil.

"And yet, without us, Saudi Arabia wouldn't exist for very long," Mr Trump said. He also named in the interview retired Major Gen Gary Harrell, Major Gen Bert Mizusawa and retired Rear Adm Charles Kubic as additional foreign policy advisors to the five named earlier this week - who were criticised as being obscure.

Mr Trump has faced questions about his reluctance to reveal who was advising his campaign.

Meanwhile, Mexicans celebrating an Easter ritual have burned effigies of Trump, whose anti-immigrant views have sparked outrage south of the American border. ( Daily Telegraph London)

Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022]
Rescue workers move a body from the site of a blast targeting Christians at a public park in Lahore. Reuters/Mohsin Raza

The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered at Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore has risen to 70.

A three day period of mourning has begun following the attack near children's rides in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park, which was crowded with Christians celebrating Easter, local police chief Haider Ashraf said.

A breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban, which has sworn allegiance to the Islamic State group, claimed responsibility.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar's spokesman Ahsanullah Ahsan said the suicide bomber deliberately targeted the Christian community. Almost 300 people were wounded in the explosion.

In the capital, Islamabad, the army fanned out Monday around the Parliament and other strategic points to prevent riots by militant protesters who have been rallying there since the previous day.

Punjab's chief minister Shahbaz Sharif announced three days of mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.

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The park was manned by police and private security guards, police chief Haider Ashraf said.

"We are in a war-like situation and there is always a general threat, but no specific threat alert was received for this place," he added.

Pakistan's army chief, General Raheel Sharif, has convened an emergency meeting of the country's intelligence agencies to begin to track down those responsible for the attacks.

Salman Rafiq, a health adviser to the Punjab government, urged people to donate blood, saying many of the wounded are in a critical condition.
Rescue workers move a body from the site of a blast targeting Christians at a public park in Lahore. Reuters/Mohsin Raza

A suicide bomber killed at least 65 people, mostly women and children, at a public park in the Pakistani city of Lahore yesterday, government officials and police said, in an attack that deliberately targeted Christians.

The blast occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, a few metres away from children's swings. Around 300 people were injured in the explosion, officials said.

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A breakaway faction of the militant Taliban group in Pakistan claimed responsibility for the attack. Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, told reporters that a suicide bomber with the faction deliberately targeted the Christian community. He warned that more attacks would follow.

Local police chief Haider Ashraf said the area was crowded with Christians celebrating the Easter holidays and many families were leaving the park when the blast occurred.

Mr Ashraf said the park was manned by police guards and private security guards.

"We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat but no specific threat alert was received for this place," he added.

Eyewitnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the car park. The park had been particularly busy yesterday evening due to the Easter holiday weekend.

Javed Ali, who lives opposite the park, told local media that the force of the blast shattered the windows of his home. He said: "Everything was shaking - there were cries and dust everywhere. After 10 minutes, I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house."

He added: "It was overcrowded because of Easter - there were a lot of Christians there. It was so crowded I told my family not to go."

Hasan Imran (30) said he was taking an evening walk in the park when the explosion detonated. He said: "When the blast occurred the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air."

The government of Punjab issued an urgent appeal online for blood donations to help treat the wounded. The government's official Twitter account posted a message offering free transport to anyone who wished to donate blood.
Right-wing demonstrators protesting against terrorism in front of the old stock exchange in Brussels Photo: Reuters

The Belgian government has sought to contain criticism of its handling of the Brussels attacks, as investigators launched 13 anti-terror raids in the capital and two other cities, taking four more people into custody.

In central Brussels, riot police used water cannon when scuffles broke out in front of the stock exchange, which has become a symbolic rallying point for people to pay their respects to those who died in Tuesday's suicide bombings.

Black-clad men carrying an anti-Isil group banner with an expletive on it held an agitated rally, but were pushed back by riot police.

Interior Minister Jan Jambon conceded yesterday that decades of neglect had hampered the government's response to violent extremism.

He said the government had invested 600m in police and security services over the past two years but acknowledged that Belgium's justice system and security services were still lagging behind.

Mr Jambon, whose offer to resign on Thursday was refused by the prime minister, also admitted some shortcomings prior to the March 22 suicide bombings in Brussels that killed at least 31 people and wounded 270 others.

"There have been errors," he said on VRT television.

Mr Jambon said it takes time to hire anti-terror specialists and specialised equipment and insisted that the government's new investments needed time before they would become visible to the public.

Federal prosecutors, meanwhile, said yesterday morning's raids were linked to a "federal case regarding terrorism" but did not specify whether they had any links to the last Tuesday's attacks. The 13 raids were launched in the capital and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel.

An investigating judge was due to decide last night whether the four would remain in custody. Five were released after questioning.

As international pressure on Belgium has mounted for serving as an unwitting rear-base for terrorists who launched the November 13 massacres that left 130 dead in Paris, the government has felt forced to defend its choices and the actions of investigators.

Lawmakers, meanwhile, are demanding an inquiry.

Belgian police and the army have been deployed, sometimes around the clock, at major buildings and sites in the capital in increasing numbers since November, when Brussels went into lockdown over fears that top Paris suspect Salah Abdeslam had returned and was hiding there.

As it turned out, Abdeslam had returned but police did not find and arrest him until March 18, four days before suspects from his network exploded suicide bombs in Brussels.

Belgian investigators have been slammed for not questioning Abdeslam long enough or hard enough after he was shot in the leg during his arrest.

Police have also been criticised for taking too long to get to Zaventem airport on Tuesday morning after two suicide bombers blew themselves up there - and left an even bigger third suitcase full of explosives that did not go off.

Mr Jambon and Justice Minister Keen Goens were grilled by legislators on Friday over how authorities had failed to arrest suicide bomber Ibrahim El Bakraoui before he blew himself up in the packed departure hall at Brussels Airport.

Turkey has said that Bakraoui - whose brother Khalid was the suicide bomber at the Maelbeek subway station - was caught near Turkey's border with Syria in 2015 and Ankara had warned Brussels and the Netherlands that he was "a foreign terrorist fighter". Belgian authorities said they did not know he was suspected of terror-related activities until after he had been deported to the Netherlands.
A migrant holds a child as he stands in front of Greek police during a protest at a makeshift camp at the Greek-Macedonian border near the village of Idomeni, Greece. Photo: Marko Djurica/Reuters

Several hundred Iraqis and Syrians in the Idomeni border camp stood between protesters and police yesterday, thwarting the protesters efforts to march toward the fence separating Greece from Macedonia.

Scuffles broke out between the two groups.

The protesters twice broke through the barrier the Iraqis and Syrians had formed, only to be pushed back by Greek riot police, who used only their shields.

People speaking for the Iraqis and Syrians, including Kurds from both countries, told police that they were not taking part in the protest and that the protesters were from Afghanistan and Pakistan.

They also said that activists were circulating at the camp Saturday, urging people to join the protest.

There were people, whom we do not know, telling us that they would help us open the border at noon today, but obviously this was not true, Syrian refugee Hassan Fatuhlla said.

Fatuhlla, one of those who formed a chain around the police, has been at the camp for 37 days. His child was born in a tent 10 days ago, he said.

Iraqis and Syrians are allowed into the European Union as war refugees, although the route through the Balkans is now closed and refugees are discouraged from taking the perilous sea journey to Greek islands from Turkey.

Leftist activists from Greece and other European countries have staged protests outside the transit centres and appear determined to sabotage the deal.

The rumours spread by them that the border would open yesterday led some people who had gone to the centres to return to Idomeni. Greek police said they stopped two buses and 10 cars carrying Italian activists 3km from the border protest.

Elsewhere, al-Qaida has shot down a fighter jet in Yemen with a surface-to-air missile, it was claimed at the weekend, raising fears that jihadists are gaining access to more sophisticated weaponry.

The Emirati plane was destroyed this month while flying low during a strike on al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula targets.

Local authorities insist that the French-made mirage jet crashed due to a technical malfunction.

Sources in Yemen said it was shot down with a Russian SA-7, a heat-seeking missile with a kill zone of up to 15,000 metres at altitude.

Al-Qaida has confiscated huge amounts of weapons from bases in Yemen, a source said. [They] are smarter than Isil. They speak with the tribal elders, they co-opt people, get them on their side.

The source also claimed co-operative army officers were helping the jihadists to obtain weapons.
Italian police arrested an Algerian suspected of making documents for militants linked to the Brussels bombings and Belgian authorities charged a man connected with a French raid, as the investigation into the attacks spread to other countries.

With links to the Paris attacks in November becoming clearer, and amid criticism that European countries have not done enough to share intelligence on suspected Islamist militants, cooperation appeared to be deepening.

The suicide bomb attacks targeting Brussels airport and a rush-hour metro train on Tuesday killed 31 people, including three of the attackers, and injured hundreds more. Isil has claimed responsibility.

Belgian press agency Belga said yesterday that prosecutors charged the man in connection with a raid in Paris on Thursday that authorities say foiled an apparent attack plot.

Belga named him as Abderamane A., who prosecutors had said on Saturday was being held after being shot during a raid in the Brussels district of Schaerbeek. The prosecutor's office could not immediately be reached for comment.

In southern Italy, Algerian Djamal Eddine Ouali (40) was arrested by DIGOS anti-terrorism police after a series of raids and arrests was carried out in Belgium and Germany following the attacks, Italian media said on Saturday.

He was suspected of having made false documents for militants connected to the attacks, Sky TG 24 television and other media said. His name was found in documents in a raid on an apartment near Brussels last October, including some that featured photos of militants involved in the attacks in Paris and Brussels and the aliases they used.

Belgian prosecutors also charged three men on Saturday including Faycal C, whom Belgian media identified as Faycal Cheffou and said he was "the man in the hat", as he has become known, in last Tuesday's airport CCTV footage that showed three men pushing baggage trolleys bearing luggage.

However, investigators have still not fully confirmed that Cheffou is that man, a person close to the investigation has said.

The two others in the picture are believed to have blown themselves up.

Cheffou was charged with taking part in the activities of a terrorist group, and actual and attempted terrorist murder. The other two charged on Saturday, Aboubakar A. and Rabah N., were accused of terrorist activities and membership of a terrorist group. Rabah N. was also wanted in connection with the raid in France.
Mohammed Morsi came to power after popular protests forced out long-time dictator Hosni Mubarak

Egypt's top judicial disciplinary council has rejected appeals by 31 judges who were forced into early retirement for rejecting the military overthrow of an Islamist president.

Official news agency Mena said on Monday that the judges are members of the Judges For Egypt movement, which opposed the military overthrow of President Mohammed Morsi, who hails from the Muslim Brotherhood.

The group is accused of having violated impartiality rules by getting involved in politics.

President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi led the military overthrow of Mr Morsi in July 2013.

Some of the judges read a televised statement supporting Mr Morsi's "legitimacy" while at a sit-in by his supporters in Cairo's Rabaa al-Adawiya square. Security forces killed hundreds of protesters when they dispersed the sit-in in August 2013.
Women comfort each other after a family member was killed in the blast

Pakistan's prime minister Nawaz Sharif vowed on Monday to hunt down and defeat the militants who have been carrying out attacks like the Easter bombing that targeted Christians and killed 72 people.

"We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan," Mr Sharif said. "This is our resolve. This is the resolve of the 200 million people of Pakistan."

As the country began three days of mourning after Sunday's suicide bombing in the eastern city of Lahore in a park crowded with families, Mr Sharif said the army would forge ahead with a military operation on extremist hideouts and police will go after what he called the "cowards" who carried out the attack.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a breakaway Taliban faction that supports the Islamic State group, claimed responsibility and said it specifically targeted Christians.

But most of those killed were Muslims who also had been in the popular park for the holiday. Many women and children were among the victims, and dozens of families held tearful funerals on Monday for their slain relatives. At least 300 people were wounded.

Mr Sharif, who cancelled a visit to the United States to attend a nuclear summit, also warned extremists against using Islam to justify their violence in the overwhelmingly Muslim nation.

Pakistan has suffered a series of attacks in recent months, and Mr Sharif said militants are hitting "soft targets" like playgrounds and schools because military and police operations are putting pressure on their operations.

Mr Sharif met with security officials earlier in the day, and raids and dozens of arrests were carried out in eastern Punjab province, where several militant organisations are headquartered.

The prime minister also visited hospitals in Lahore where many of the injured were being treated. Mr Sharif was born in the city, which is also the capital of Punjab province, his power base.

"It strengthened my resolve when I met the wounded people," he said in his address. "God willing, I will not sit idle until I bring smiles back on their faces."

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a government offensive and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis decried what he called the vile and abominable bombing against Christians and urged Pakistani authorities to "make every effort to restore security and serenity" in the country, particularly for religious minorities.

In Pakistan's capital of Islamabad, Islamic extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings, demanding that authorities impose Sharia law. The army deployed paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighbouring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the centre, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

The leader of the protesters, Sarwat Ejaz Qadri told a local TV channel they would stay outside Parliament "until our demands are met". Hundreds were hunkered down for a long stay, chanting prayers, occasionally raising anti-government slogans and brandishing long sticks.

They were protesting against the hanging last month of policeman Mumtaz Qadri. He was convicted for the 2011 murder of governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Mr Taseer had also criticised Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Mr Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced draft legislation in Punjab province that outlaws violence against women.

Earlier this month, Mr Sharif had officially recognised holidays celebrated by Pakistan's minority religions, including Easter and the Hindu festival of Holi.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, said that along with striking at Christians celebrating Easter, the bombing also was meant to protest against military operations in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year.

But of the 72 dead from Sunday's attack, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, said Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. The rest have not been identified.

Shama Pervez, a widow who lost her 11-year-old son Sahil in the bombing, was inconsolable at his funeral. A fifth-grader at a Catholic school, he had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

In the Christian area of Youhanabad on the outskirts of Lahore, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children?" asked Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of Sunday's victims.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed in the park, and all were Muslims. His 10-year-old nephew, Fahad Ali, lay wounded in a bed at home. He had lost his parents and a sister, and another two sisters also were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything to continue at school!" he cried.

Forensic experts searched debris in the park. The bomb had been a crude device loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the victims for maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, a known militant recruiter.

Nobel peace prize laureate Malala Yousafzai, herself a survivor of a Taliban shooting, said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

White House spokesman Josh Earnest called the bombing "grotesque."

"The fact that you have an extremist organisation targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," he said, also noting the high number of Muslims among the victims.

Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan said targeting a park filled with children "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values".

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" with Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere".

Zahid Hussain, an expert on Pakistani militants, said the violence was a show of strength by religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

Pakistan's military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The army says the operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has killed more than 3,000 militants. In December 2014, the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in north western city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Mr Hussain said the government has sent mixed signals to Islamic extremists. On one hand, it has allowed banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches. At the same time, it has hanged convicts like Qadri and promised to tackle honour killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," Mr Hussain said. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say no to extremism once and for all."

Army chief General Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage non-humans to overrun our life and liberty".

Punjab's government said it will give about 3,000 US dollars in compensation to the seriously wounded and 1,500 US dollars to those with minor injuries from the bombing.
Bernie Sanders scored three wins in Western caucus contests on Saturday night, giving a powerful psychological boost to his supporters - but doing little to move him closer to securing the Democratic nomination.

While the results - in Washington, Alaska and Hawaii - barely dented Hillary Clinton's significant delegate lead, Sanders's wins underscored her persistent vulnerabilities within her own party, particularly with young voters and liberal activists who have been inspired by her rival's unapologetically liberal message.

In an interview, Sanders cast his performance as part of a Western comeback, saying he expects to close the delegate gap with Clinton as the contest moves to the more liberal northeastern states, including her home state of New York. He also said his campaign is increasing its outreach to superdelegates, the party insiders who can pick either candidate, and are overwhelmingly with Clinton.

"The Deep South is a very conservative part of the country," he said. "Now that we're heading into a progressive part of the country, we expect to do much better."

He added: "There is a path to victory."

With Clinton far in front, however, it is a difficult path.

Clinton anticipated the losses: She barely campaigned in the three states, making just one day of stops in Washington state, and was spending the Easter weekend with her family.

She is turning her focus to the April 19 contest in New York, seeking to win a large share of the delegates at stake and to avoid the blow of losing to Sanders in a state she represented in the Senate. She is trying to lock up an even larger share of delegates in five Northeastern contests a week later, hoping to deliver a big enough haul to unify the Democratic Party and relegate Sanders to little more than a protest candidate.

Sanders, who has found some success in the industrial Midwest, wants to leverage his working-class support and fiery arguments against free trade into an April 5 victory in delegate-rich Wisconsin. He also plans to compete fiercely in New York and is pushing for the party to schedule a debate in the state, saying in the interview that it would be "really absurd" if one did not take place.

After Sanders's two early wins in Washington and Alaska on Saturday, Clinton held a delegate lead of 1,234 to 956 over Sanders, according to an AP analysis, an advantage that expands to 1,703-985 once the superdelegates are included. It takes 2,383 delegates to win.

Based on the AP count, Sanders needs to win more than 57pc of the remaining delegates from primaries and caucuses to have a majority of those delegates by the end of June.

His bar is even higher when the party officials are considered. He needs to win more than 67pc of the remaining delegates overall - from primaries, caucuses and the ranks of uncommitted superdelegates - to prevail.

He was unlikely to emerge from his Saturday sweep with significantly more delegates, winning at least 36 delegates to Clinton's 11 for the day after his victories in Alaska and Washington. More are likely to be allocated to Sanders in several weeks, when the Washington state Democratic party releases vote shares by district. Some 67 delegates are awarded based on results in the state's congressional districts.

But there's little question that Sanders has tapped into a powerful frustration within the party. He continues to attract tens of thousands to his rallies and has collected more than $140m from 4.7 million donations.

Most of his 14 primary-season wins have been in states with largely white populations and in caucus contests, which tend to attract the most active liberal Democrats. He's heavily favoured by younger voters, who were a key part of the coalition that boosted Barack Obama to victory twice. Clinton's ability to win the White House, should she capture the nomination, will hinge on how well she can motivate his passionate - and politically active - supporters.

In Spokane, Washington, a huge line of caucus attendees - largely Sanders backers - snaked around a high school parking lot on Saturday morning.

"I think one of the biggest things is free tuition for students," said Savannah Dills (24), a college student who supports Sanders. "And getting big money out of politics. He's not paid for by billionaires."

Retiree Dan McLay (64) attended the caucus in a hard-hat, which he joked he needed because he was one of the relatively few Clinton supporters in the big crowd. "Look at this thing in Brussels," McLay said, referring to the attack in Belgium this week. "We need a real experienced leader."

It was strong support for Sanders that brought Kirsa Hughes-Skandijs out to her first caucus in Juneau, Alaska.

"This is the first time I've ever felt that kind of belief in a candidate, that they mean what they say and that they are not saying what they think people want to hear," she said.
BMW announces $1.7 billion investment to build all-electric vehicles

The $1.7 billion investment includes $700 million to build a high-voltage battery assembly plant with 300 new jobs in Woodruff.
SHARE Dean Scarborough of Anderson, during his days as a sailor during World War II

By Abe Hardesty of the Independent Mail

By June of 1944, Anderson's Dean Scarborough had been tested by 20 months of World War II rigors. That included the invasion of Sicily in mid-1943, a fierce two-month battle in which 546 fellow sailors were killed.

But nothing had prepared him for D-Day.

"I'll not ever forget that sight," Scarborough said from his home Tuesday, 69 years and a half-planet removed from the largest seaborne invasion in U.S. military history.

Scarborough was part of the crew of the USS LST 338 on June 6, 1944, when American-led Allied forces invaded the coast of mainland Europe. He was among 175,000 members of Allied forces who participated in the event, which proved to be a turning point in Germany's quest to conquer Europe.

That day, more than 100,000 troops began the march across Europe to defeat Adolf Hitler. The war in Europe ended 10 months later.

Scarborough's memories of the event have more to do with the thousands who didn't survive the first day of the invasion, when nearly 10,000 casualties have been estimated.

He was 20 at the time, and its sights, scents and sounds remain embedded in his memory.

"It was a bad sight to see all those bodies out in the surf," said Scarborough. His twice-delayed ship ferried about 300 infantrymen, tanks and trucks 100 miles across the English Channel to Omaha Beach ? the most difficult of the five landing areas, because its beach was the best fortified.

At the point of invasion, along 50 miles of French beaches, thousands were killed by enemy fire from heavily fortified guns above the beach. Many drowned, unable to get footing on the beach because of the channel's high, rough tide during three days of storms.

Scarborough's voice carries frustration, undimmed by 69 years of peaceful civilian life.

"It was so sad, realizing so many didn't make it to the beach. The tide was so high; a lot of the boat drivers didn't get them in far enough," Scarborough said. "There was a lot of confusion."

Among the tasks of the LST 338 crew was the evacuation of the casualties in the water and along the shoreline.

"We pulled out a lot of bodies," Scarborough said. "We lost a lot of men that never got a chance."

The invasion had been planned for months.

"Everybody meant well," Scarborough said. "But it didn't go well."

In the blood-stained water, Scarborough was frustrated by the realization that heavy backpacks made it impossible to swim to shore.

"The troops were carrying way too much gear on their backs. They were loaded down and couldn't move fast enough to get off the beach," Scarborough said.

The fighting in the Normandy region continued for two months. But by nightfall on June 6, the initial invasion was complete. On June 8, after four consecutive days of heavy rain, the skies cleared.

"Believe it or not, it cleared up that day and we had the most beautiful weather you've ever seen," Scarborough said. "If we could have waited a couple more days, things might have been different."

For Scarborough, the frustrations of Normandy came less than a year after his ship participated in the invasion of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea, which enabled the Allied forces to attack Italian and German forces from a southern vantage point.

Only July 10, 1943, landings were made on 26 main beaches spread along 105 miles of the southern and eastern coasts of the island. It was the largest amphibious operation of World War II in terms of size of the landing zone and number of divisions put ashore on the first day.

By September, LST 338 was headed for England, to begin preparation for the D-Day invasion.

Scarborough came home on a 30-day leave in July 1945, three months after the fall of the German army. He expected to return to duty in August, joining in the war against Japan. But the Japanese army surrendered while he was home on leave.

He never left Anderson County again. An Anderson resident since age 5, when his father brought the family from Madison County, Ga., in search of job opportunities during the Great Depression, Scarborough and wife Lena raised a son and daughter near the Anderson Airport. He was a loom fixer at Gerrish-Milliken Mill in Pendleton for more than 30 years until his retirement in 1989.

About 175,000 men participated in the D-Day invasion. Only a small percentage are alive today.





D-Day facts and figures

D-Day is the name given to the landing of 160,000 Allied troops in Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944. The success of the invasion of Normandy is considered the turning point in the Allies' war against Germany. The invasion, also called "Operation Overlord," involved landings at five separate beaches by American, British, and Canadian troops. German resistance resulted in Allied casualties estimated at nearly 10,000.

The term "D-Day," is a military reference to "undefined day," and was part of a heavily guarded secret until the actual invasion began in the early hours of June 6.2. D-Day was originally scheduled for June 5, but the inclement weather forced a delay.

The invasion involved 5,000 ships carrying men and vehicles across the English Channel as well as 800 planes dropping over 13,000 men in parachutes. Three hundred more planes dropped bombs on German troops defending the beaches. More than 100,000 Allied troops made it to shore that day.

The most difficult landing of D-Day was at Omaha beach. Navigation problems resulted in many men drowning before they reached land. Omaha Beach also had the largest number of German troops, and the fighting was fierce. It is the Omaha Beach battle that is re-enacted in the opening of the movie "Saving Private Ryan."

It is the largest sea invasion in history.

The majority of combat units on D-Day invasion were the United States troops, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

The invasion began with a parachute and glider landings in the early morning, followed by the sea, air and artillery attacks.
The stunning Neha Dhupia who is quite a travel enthusiast was recently invited to Australia to judge Miss India Australia. We were told that she extended her work stay to explore Australia with her parents who have been wanting to visit Australia for a while now.

Sad the actress, "We stayed at service apartments in the heart of the city as it`s always better like that with family. I have been to Melbourne before but my parents have always wanted to visit. Now it`s a tick off their bucket list. They loved it so much that now they plan on going back there for the summer."

Sharing more about their trip, Neha added, "We behaved like tourists and non-tourists and did everything there was to do - from the Pacific drive to Bondi beach and Blue Mountains to just lying on the grass and soaking in the city and kayaking."

Neha, who is a foodie, enjoyed Australia alot since it offered her a huge variety of food. "I am a foodie and I usually take recommendations from locals and eat a lot of street food. Australia had extreme quality control on food and every cuisine and restaurant is spectacular!", shared the actress.
the countrys largest all-weather; deep water port on the east-coast earmarked a historical moment for Indias bilateral trade and commerce as the first direct container vessel, part of coastal shipping agreement to facilitate trade between India and Bangladesh, set sail from the port on 28th March 2016.The trade agreements which were signed during the reign of the then Indianwere revived back after a period of four decades durings visit to Dhaka last year.owned byand built byis the first Bangladesh container vessel to have received the permission from the shipping departments of both the countries.Commenting on the development,This agreement is historic not just for Krishnapatnam but for the entire nation as this would pave way for enhanced bilateral trade ties between the two closest neighbours of the subcontinent. Besides an improved connectivity the service will play a vital role in decongesting the border points and bringing down the cost and transit time involved, thereby providing the best competitive freight rates to the advantage of the industry.A standard operating procedure was signed between India and Bangladesh last November to move commercial cargo between the two countries also stating the provisions and procedures to be followed for such movement.To facilitate easy bilateral trade, many conditions have been waived by both countries. The vessels of both the countries upon entry in to India and Bangladesh shall be treated as domestic vessels and not foreign going vessels. The provision will play a key role in addressing the traffic congestion at Petrapole (India) and Benapole (Bangladesh) the two border points which pose as one of the biggest impediments to the movement of EXIM cargo.This will also offer to reduce the paper work required at the customs check points and port dues paid at Indian ports too will be at par with Indian vessels. The vessel and cargo will also enjoy complete Protection and Indemnity (P&I) coverage insuring cargo from the point of loading to the final destination and till the time the parcel reaches the final consignee.The crews on both vessels are exempted from aligning to international certifications as they are certified as per the provisions of the two countries stated by the SOP. Both the countries agree to reduce customs documentation and other requirements to the essential minimum for the purpose of easier cargo movement and to have custom stations at or near the points of entry and exit in each country.Earlier the shipments from Indian ports being transported to Bangladesh were routed either via Colombo or Singapore. With the launch of the direct service, time taken for such shipments would come down from 2-5 days. We are certain that this will not only build the relationship but also reflect positively on exporters and importers of both the countries, ultimately benefitting the end consumers.The opening of this route will also enable the movement of cargo to the North Eastern states of India through coastal shipping up to Chittagong and thereafter by road or inland waterways. Secondly, the deep draft ports on the eastern coast of India can be hub ports for the onward transportation of cargo to Bangladesh through River Sea Vessels (RSV).The SOP stipulates that only two categories of vessels RSV-IV and RSV-III can ply between the ports. While category IV of the river-sea vessels can sail during all weather conditions and during the night, class III vessels are not navigable only fair weather. These vessels can still through a depth of 3.76 meters and can carry 176 TEUs of cargo at a go.92 percent of the countrys export import trade and draw cargo from western, central and southern India headed to Bangladesh. A lot of cargo can get diverted from road to sea through this initiative and exporters can benefit from rate and transit advantage. A lot of yarn from Ludhiana in Punjab can directly go to Krishnapatnam instead of going to Mundra.Shipping to ICT Pangaon via KPCT will provide exporters with a smooth, hassle-free, faster transit and cost efficient shipping service. Exporters and importers from Bengaluru, trading with Bangladesh can utilise and benefit by our weekly train service from ICD Bengaluru to KPCT or road services by trailer/truck says Vinita Venkatesh, Director, Krishnapatnam Port Container Terminal.As national carrier shipping corporation of India (SCI)supported KPCT for this call. Some of the customers who booked containers on this voyage are : Kaveri Ginning Mill Pvt Ltd, Manjeet Cotton Pvt Ltd, Wisdom Cotton, M Sherif & Sons, Awatac Container Line Pvt Ltd, Shipping Corporation of India, Pisces Container Lines (I) Pvt Ltd, VVS Global Forwarders Pvt Ltd.
It may get difficult to understand why the Indian market chose to chart its own course on Monday even as overall sentiment in most global markets remained mixed. Nikkei index was up by 0.7% and Shanghai index was down by 0.5%. The sharp reversal on the downside came primarily from Tata Steel, SBI and ICICI Bank which clocked sharp cuts in recent times. Bears were on back-foot ever since the outcome of Budget on February 29. However they were back after sabbatical to drag Nifty below 7650.After taking a breather in the previous session, the bears were back as the BSE Sensex shed 371 points while the Nifty declined by 101 points. The metal, pharma and banking stocks were among the top losers.Nifty continues to face strong supply pressure at 7745, which is the midpoint of the current gann channel. Incidentally in todays trade, Nifty made a peak of 7749 before slipping in red. Formation of hanging man candlestick at the top of the uptrend also indicated caution. From here on, aggressive longs should be build only when the pressure point of 7750 is surpassed and sustained. On the downside, it could reverse back to previous breakout zone of 7569-7600.Commenting on todays fall, Amar Ambani, Head of Research, IIFL said, With F&O expiry around the corner, market is most likely to swing between 7500-7700 zone (maximum call/put OI at 7700/7500 strikes). With FIIs adding significant index long position during the March series; rollovers of their long index future position is most likely to dictate near term trend in the market. India VIX (fear index) has seen sharp increase in todays trading session indicating market participants expect the current rally to halt at 7,750 level.The BSE Sensex snapped four-day winning streak on Monday and ended with a loss of 371 points at 24,966. The BSE Sensex opened at 25,417, touched an intra-day high of 25,433 and low of 24,895. The NSE Nifty closed with a loss of 101 points at 7,615. The NSE Nifty opened at 7,741 hitting a high of 7,749 and low of 7,588.Power Grid, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bosch, NTPC, BPCL were among the gainers on NSE, whereas Vedanta, Hindalco, Tata Steel, Sun Pharma and SBI were among the losers today.The European stock markets are closed for the Easter Monday holiday.The Indian Rupee was trading up by 6 paise at 66.58 per US dollar.The India VIX (Volatility) index was up 6.97% to 17.4850. Out of 1,413 stocks traded on the NSE, 1,108 declined and 269 advanced today.Biocon zoomed 3.3% to Rs.479.05 on BSE. The company announced that the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan has approved its biosimilar Insulin Glargine.Natco Pharma tumbled 12.6% at Rs. 409.30. The United States Food & Drug Administration (USFDA) has conducted inspection at two manufacturing facilities of Natco Pharma recently. The inspection was conducted at the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) manufacturing facility at Manali, near Chennai, and the Pharmaceutical Formulations facility at Kothur, near Hyderabad, during early February and March, 2016, respectively.Steel Strips Wheels Ltd soared 3% to Rs.342 after the company has bagged a prestigious export order from PSA Peugeot citroen.Navin Fluorine International rallied 3.9% to Rs.1,763. Honeywell has entered into a supply and technology license agreement with Indias speciality fluorochemicals manufacturer to produce Honeywell Solstice yf, says report.IL&FS Engineering and Construction Company Ltd gained 1.2% at Rs. 45.45. A joint venture of IL&FS Engineering and Construction Company Ltd and Unitech Power Transmission Ltd has received LoA worth Rs 153.99 crore in Gujarat from Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL).Dr. Reddy's Laboratories closed marginally lower by 0.38% to Rs.3,036 on BSE. The pharma company has entered into a US licensing pact with XenoPort for the development and commercialisation of latters clinical-stage oral new chemical entity XP23829Vedanta cracked 9% to Rs. 88.05. Vedanta Resources Chairman Anil Agarwal reportedly said the consumption of the metal will rise to 20 million tonnes (mt) from the present 2 mt.Reliance Communications (RCom) dropped 3.7% to Rs. 50.05 on BSE. RCom has extended the exclusivity period with Maxis Communications Berhad (MCB) and Sindya Securities and Investments Private Limited, the shareholders of Aircel Limited by 60 days to May 22, 2016, to consider the potential combination of the Indian wireless business of RCOM and Aircel and mutually derive the expected substantial benefits of in-country consolidation, including opex and capex synergies and revenue enhancement.Indo Rama Synthetics (India) gained 2% at Rs. 30.10 on BSE today. Around 34.9 lakh shares were traded in a multiple block at Rs. 29.75 on the BSE.NALCO dipped 3% at Rs. 37.45 on BSE. The company had been allotted Utkal-D & E coal blocks, near the company's Captive Power Plant in Angul district of Odisha, as per a report.A total of 13 stock registered a fresh 52-week high in trades today, while 38 stocks touched a new 52-week low on the NSE.Ashok Leyland Limited, Bajaj Finance Limited, Balaji Amines Limited, Bhageria Industries Limited, Bodal Chemicals Limited, Energy Development Company, Gallantt Ispat, Infosys Limited, Kakatiya Cement Sugar & Industries, Minda Corporation Limited, PTL Enterprises Limited, TVS Motor Company Limited, Vidhi Dyestuffs Manufacturing were some of the prominent stocks to log a fresh 52-week high.Alchemist Limited, Arvind Remedies Limited, Austral Coke & Projects Limited, Birla Cotsyn (India) Limited, CORE Education & Technologies Limited, Ess Dee Aluminium Limited, GEI Industrial Systems Limited, Global Offshore Services Limited, Indiabulls Ventures Limited,Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Jaihind Projects Limited, Jaypee Infratech Limited, Jindal Stainless Limited, Jindal Stainless (Hisar), KDDL Limited, Lupin Limited, Manaksia Industries Limited, Mangalore Chemicals & Fertilizers Limited, Monte Carlo Fashions Limited, MSP Steel & Power Limited, Murli Industries Limited, North Eastern Carrying Corporation Limited, NEPC India Limited, OCL Iron and Steel Limited, Orbit Exports Limited, Paras Petrofils Limited, PIL ITALICA LIFESTYLE LIMITED, Prime Securities Limited, Rainbow Papers Limited, Raj Rayon Industries Limited, Sequent Scientific Limited, Sharon Bio-Medicine Limited, Sreeleathers Limited, SVOGL OIL GAS AND ENERGY, Talwalkars Better Value Fitness, Tarmat Limited, Vaibhav Global, Visesh Infotecnics were some of the notable stocks to record new 52-week low.
Mercedes-Benz has started production at its new passenger-car plant in Brazil, thereby extending its worldwide production network as part of the Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy. The new site at Iracemapolis in the Sao Paulo metropolitan area was officially opened by representatives of Daimler AG at a ceremony attended by guests from politics, industry and society. The first vehicle to roll off the production line was a black C-Class Saloon.The opening of the Mercedes-Benz Iracemapolis plant is a further milestone in the development of our flexible and efficient production network. The global production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars comprises 26 locations which are organized in production compounds according to the vehicle architecture. With the local production, we are strengthening our global competitiveness and will be closer to our Brazilian customers and their needs for passenger cars of the premium brand Mercedes-Benz, says Markus Schafer, Member of the Divisional Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management.Following the production start of the C-Class at the Mercedes-Benz Iracemapolis plant, the GLA compact SUV will also be rolling off the production line beginning this summer. In the first stage, the plant is designed for an annual capacity of 20,000 vehicles. Mercedes-Benz achieved record unit sales in Brazil in 2015.We believe in the long-term perspective of the passenger-car market in Brazil, declares Schafer. The plant in Iracemapolis points the way ahead for our medium-sized plants in terms of layout and technology. The plants level of automation is significantly lower than in traditional Mercedes-Benz plants. Thereby, we achieve a highly flexible and top- quality production to satisfy local demand. As part of the global production network, Iracemapolis is connected to all Mercedes-Benz Cars locations around the world, allowing a location-independent access to production data and process management. Every single installation and every robot, for example, can be centrally managed and updated to new software programmes.In terms of training for the Brazilian workforce, employees were sent to other Mercedes-Benz plants where they were able to familiarise themselves with the production processes and further integrate the new location into the international plant network through personal relations. One of the leading locations here was the sister plant in Pune, India, which likewise produces the C-Class.Roland Folger, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, Its a matter of immense pride for us that Mercedes-Benz India was chosen to train the Brazilian colleagues and familiarize them with the production process, towads setting up the new assembly plant in Iracemapolis. India is a forerunner amongst Mercedes-Benzs assembly plants globally, and in the past we have already supported the plant in Vietnam in the global network. Both the teams gained in creating trust, a bond of friendship beyond cultures and continents, and being an ideal example demonstrating the strength of collaborative working. Our contribution in training the Brazilian colleagues also strongly underscores our prowess and rich experience in local production of luxury cars, which we have pioneered 20 years back in India.Piyush Arora, Exceutive Director, Operations, Mercedes-Benz India elaborated, The training for the Brazilian workforce was targeted to build a competent team required to smoothly start-up and run the production process in Brazil. We trained our Brazilian colleagues on how to build a product in the right sequence, with the right tools, in the right time. It was a highly enriching experience for both the teams and it endows the trust, ability and competence level of the local team seen as a benchmark plant in Mercedes-Benzs Production Network.Arora further added, The intercultural experience for both teams has been immense and heartening. This is yet another instance of Mercedes- Benzs leadership in local manufacturing, the core of which comprises our highly skilled staff members and operators in Chakan, Pune, who ensures our production quality conforms to the most stringent global standards, and creates new benchmark in manufacturing for the luxury car industry in IndiaMercedes-Benz Indias training focused on creating customized programs which emphasized on Product Quality, Production Processes and Production Systems with a clear focus on shop floor Leadership and Ownership, without losing sight on the safety aspects. The training module being imparted, familiarized the Brazilian colleagues about the Mercedes-Benz Production system and its core philosophy of Doing it right the first time, which is being followed at every Mercedes-Benz plant around the world. The training module developed by Mercedes-Benz India, also detailed the different processes and systems involved in manufacturing the vehicle, including all aspects of vehicle manufacturing comprising Quality, Body shop, Paint shop, Assembly, Logistics and Planning.The Brazil Production and Planning team have been interacting with the Indian counterparts to share experiences for the execution of their facility and smooth start-up. As integral part of the training programme, the multiplier training for the Brazilian team took place at the Chakan plant in September and November 2015. The team from Brazil received a head start with the training and understanding of the intricacies of different processes. The training imparted at Mercedes-Benz India enabled creating a competent workforce to start a new product on a new line. Some employees also spent several weeks training at the Mercedes- Benz Bremen plant (Germany), the lead plant for the C-Class, and at the Kecskemet plant (Hungary), which produces compact models.Mercedes-Benz invests a total of over BRL 600 million in the new passenger-car site creating 600 jobs at the plant. Further jobs are being generated at suppliers and service providers in the region. Just 19 months elapsed between the concept decision and the start of production. At Mercedes-Benz, we have tried-and-tested standards and factory kits for our passenger-car plants, both for planning and for installations and processes. Their implementation enabled an extremely short construction period and ensured that the plant was up and running quickly. The rapid project success was facilitated by highly capable partners and the dedication of our team, adds Schafer.The new plant in Brazil is part of Mercedes-Benzs global assembly network. This network also includes the production facilities in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. At these locations, Mercedes-Benz produces vehicles in various extension levels for local markets.
Microsoft India announced the launch of SQL Server 2016, the data platform built with advanced predictive analytics capabilities. This is the first data platform to be born-of the cloud, designed to enable businesses to transform themselves with cloud, data and intelligence. SQL Server 2016 is Microsofts biggest leap into the future of data platform. It helps businesses with intelligence-based decision making, giving them a strong competitive advantage.Data is the new electricity for businesses today. It gives our customers the opportunity to catapult their growth. Microsofts SQL Server 2016 is built for this data driven world - customer tested and battle ready, said Karan Bajwa, Managing Director, Microsoft Corporation India.SQL 2016 supports encrypted query processing capabilities for advanced analytics, machine learning, mobile business intelligence, and data integration that addresses the security concerns of customers. It is today the worlds only relational database to be born cloud-first with the majority of features first deployed and tested on Azure, he added.Analyst firm IDC projects that the digital universe will reach 40 zettabytes (ZB) by 2020 and will double every two years between now and 2020. This combined with cloud economics offering cost-effective compute capabilities is providing businesses an unprecedented ability to analyze and derive deep insights from this data, in real-time.Elaborating on the business benefits and enhanced customer satisfaction, Munish Mittal, Group Head-IT & CIO, HDFC Bank said, At HDFC Bank, customer convenience is at the core of all our endeavor. To enable access and convenience to our customers for our products and services across all platforms, we implement cutting edge technology solutions across the full spectrum of digital enterprise. Our Digital application platform and CRM systems uses Microsoft technology as the data platform. SQL Server not only offers good performance but also helps us in scaling up our systems at very optimal cost.SQL Server 2016 is powered by unique cloud capabilities that enable customers to deploy hybrid architectures that partition data workloads across on-premises and cloud based systems to help customers gradually move to the cloud, increase agility of their processes and save costs.
Panacea Biotec, India's 3rd largest biotechnology company introduces indigenously developed high quality Oncology product, CABAPAN (Cabazitaxel Injection), for treatment of metastatic Castration Resistant Prostrate Cancer (mCRPC).Prostate is the second leading site of cancer amongst males with rising mortality rate in India. With ever changing lifestyles, increased awareness, better diagnostic techniques and increased accessibility to medical treatment, more cases of Ca Prostate are being diagnosed.CABAPAN has been developed by Panacea Biotec's State of the art Global Research and Development Center (GRAND), Mumbai and manufactured at modern production facility complying with global current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), at Baddi, Himachal Pradesh.CABAPAN aims to improve accessibility of this treatment for the benefit of patients at an affordable cost as part of our commitment to Government of India's "MAKE IN INDIA" mission. CABAPAN will be made available at one fifth of the current cost of treatment.Commenting on the same, Dr. Rajesh Jain, Jt. Managing Director, Panacea Biotec Limited said, "Panacea Biotec has always endeavored to partner with Medical Practitioners in assisting to manage their patients better by introducing New, Innovative and Good Quality products.Panacea Biotec Ltd is currently trading at Rs. 94.85, down by Rs. 2.1 or 2.17% from its previous closing of Rs. 96.95 on the BSE.The scrip opened at Rs. 94 and has touched a high and low of Rs. 100.6 and Rs. 94 respectively. So far 255167(NSE+BSE) shares were traded on the counter. The current market cap of the company is Rs. 593.83 crore.The BSE group 'B' stock of face value Rs. 1 has touched a 52 week high of Rs. 182.9 on 13-Apr-2015 and a 52 week low of Rs. 83.9 on 12-Feb-2016. Last one week high and low of the scrip stood at Rs. 98.6 and Rs. 94 respectively.The promoters holding in the company stood at 74.47 % while Institutions and Non-Institutions held 1.07 % and 24.46 % respectively.The stock is currently trading above its 200 DMA.
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At least 18,000 jobs in the UK may become redundant if Tata Steel decides to ditch two of their loss making plants at a board meeting on Tuesday, according to PTI reports.The board of directors of the Indian multinational is expected to meet on March 29 in Mumbai to discuss whether to retain or sell the plants in Scunthorpe and Port Talbot in UK.Tata Steel Ltd is currently trading at Rs. 302.9, down by Rs. 13.7 or 4.33% from its previous closing of Rs. 316.6 on the BSE.The scrip opened at Rs. 317.25 and has touched a high and low of Rs. 317.9 and Rs. 302.75 respectively. So far 5578618(NSE+BSE) shares were traded on the counter. The current market cap of the company is Rs. 30748.68 crore.The BSE group 'A' stock of face value Rs. 10 has touched a 52 week high of Rs. 384.2 on 06-May-2015 and a 52 week low of Rs. 200 on 29-Sep-2015. Last one week high and low of the scrip stood at Rs. 317.25 and Rs. 295 respectively.The promoters holding in the company stood at 31.35 % while Institutions and Non-Institutions held 38.79 % and 29.86 % respectively.The stock is currently trading below its 50 DMA.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is looking to commence the auction for spectrum, including the 700 megahertz (MHz) band, around mid-July, reports a business daily.The spectrum auction could fetch the Government INR 5.36 lakh crore.Telecom Commission is meeting on March 28. The DoT is expecting Cabinet approval on spectrum price by mid-May and issue notice for auction in June. Taking into account various processes, spectrum auction should begin around July 15, an official has been quoted as saying.The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested a plan for spectrum sale, expected to be held in July. It will be the biggest-ever auction in terms of value and is more than double the gross revenue of the telecom services industry.Telecom service providers had a gross revenue of Rs. 2.54 lakh crore in FY15.Apart from spectrum auction, the Telecom Commission will also deliberate upon half a dozen transformative norms for the industry, including virtual network operators.Trai had recommended a record high base price of Rs. 11,485 crore per Mhz for the 700 Mhz band. If all available radiowaves under this get sold at the Trai-suggested price, it alone will yield Rs. 4 lakh crore.The Government expects revenue of Rs. 98,995 crore from telecommunications services in FY17, which includes proceeds from spectrum auction and other fees levied by DoT.
Cab aggregator Uber is planning to invest $500 million in India by June or Rs 1,000 crore a month, on average as it looks to strengthen its foothold and also challenge Ola for leadership in its third-biggest market.Just last year, the world's most valuable startup committed to invest $1 billion in India to scale up its operations in India and to stay ahead of its Indian counterpart Ola. Uber has been backing up its Indian unit from quite some time now as company's founder Travis Kalanick envisages Indian market could surpass either the US or China for Uber.According to reports Ubers plan is to spend each dollar more efficiently than our competitors, and invest in building a team, technology solutions that are India-focussed, and quality. It is very likely that the ride-hailing app will use the cash to invest in government collaborations, business partnerships, strengthen its driver supply initiatives, marketing and expansion.Uber entered the Indian market in 2013 and has managed to mark its presence in the country and make it the largest market outside the US. It has slashed prices, introduced low-cost services, tweaked business models and even accepted cash payments to get accepted in the Indian market.The world most valued startup also recently signed a pact with government of Haryana. The taxi-hailing app is planning to invest $17.7 million in technology based ride-sharing services to promote efficient, eco-friendly and smart transportation in the state and the NCR region.Uber Technologies Inc. is an American multinational online taxi dispatch company headquartered in San Francisco,California. It develops, markets and operates the Uber mobile app, which allows consumers with smartphones to submit a trip request which is then routed to Uber drivers who use their own cars. It has services in over 58 countries and 300 cities worldwide. Uber is currently estimated to be worth $62.5 billion.
Wipro Ltd announced a five-year partnership with Jubilant FoodWorks Limited, master franchisee for Domino's Pizza and Dunkin' Donuts in India and the leader in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) space in the country with over 1000 restaurants in India, to deliver energy management services and help reduce its energy and operational costs.The EcoEnergy business of Wipro rolled out its multi-year Managed Restaurant Energy Services (MRES) program last year leveraging its unique Service Window framework. The MRES program will ensure effective sustenance of energy cost reduction by a three-pronged restaurant energy control approach; Intelligent Site Automation, a ready-to-use intelligence to crew and technicians through its intuitive Wipro Energy Manager (WEM) Application Suite, and a centralized Energy Operations Center (EOC) for big data analytics that further enables enhanced asset performance, improved customer delight and better food storage compliance.Speaking on the initiative, Ajay Kaul, Chief Executive Officer, Jubilant FoodWorks Limited, said, "We are delighted to partner with Wipro towards site intelligence improvement and for designing site optimization solutions for our restaurants in India. Currently we have rolled out across 400 restaurants with a view to roll out across the remaining 600+ in the coming months. Technology is the backbone of our operational delivery and we are confident that Wipro's turnkey approach, with deep focus on analytics, will help our restaurants to continue setting new operational benchmarks supporting profitable growth and at the same time committing to an environment-friendly future. This has been validated by the early results that we are seeing in restaurants where the program has already been rolled out."Dr. Anurag Srivastava, Senior Vice President and Head - Business Outcome Services, Wipro Limited, said, "We are excited about this partnership and will leverage our global QSR sector experience to assist Jubilant FoodWorks reduce their rising energy costs. We will include analytics and loT technologies to improve various aspects like food safety and guest experience in order to reduce overall maintenance costs and help in maintaining their market leadership position in the QSR market in India."
While the rest of the world was busy celebrating World Forest Day last week, the Yeoor forest was struggling to survive its longest spate of forest fires, claimed by locals as a sabotage. The fire raged on for two days, leaving neighbouring Thane under a spell of dense smoke. Mumbai's green lung, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park is in the news again for the consecutive forest fires in the Yeoor hills and forest. And things just don't seem to get better for the region.

A little over a month ago, we reported the government's nod to a high-speed freight train corridor between Delhi and Mumbai which will run through the Sanjay Gandhi National Park and now, the consecutive fires in the forest are providing a glimpse of just how grim the situation is going to be for Mumbai if the forest is not taken care of.

The blame game over the cause of the fire in the forest is a pointless exercise

Indian Express

Even after the biggest fire on Wednesday in the forest was just doused out in the late hours of the evening, Thursday evening saw yet another fire at Indira Nagar in the Thane-Mulund belt. Forest officials say that the sudden increase in temperatures had led to a litter of dry leaves that were otherwise not so prone to catching fire at this time of the year. Accidental fires are spreading faster because of the dry leaf litter on the forest floor. A patch of the forest was left destroyed in the aftermath of Thursday evening's fire.

Residents living along the forest, on the other hand, claim that there has been severe apathy towards the forest welfare. Bedraj Tripathy, a citizen from Thane whose image of the forest fire has gone viral, informed SGNP and Yeoor office after he spotted the fire. I think the apathy of citizens, the officials and the government towards natural resources and the short term view of making a quick buck drives these rampant fires, which burn the entire greenery. I don't think the officials have taken any steps. Its burning over three days at a stretch, but no one is bothered.

Bedraj Tripathy

Forest officials also blame some residents for causing fires to weaken trees for burning before Holi! Forest officials have stated that mischief makers try to gather firewood by setting roots of the tree on fire which, in-turn, is carried on by the dried leaves.

Significant damage has already been done to the region and all of Mumbai will suffer the consequences

Flickr

A team of 13 fire-watchers has been put in place since last week to help quell further fires in the forest. Their primary objective is to clear the forest floor of dried leaves on a daily basis. Also, burnt breakers have been created to stop the fires. The dried grass has been burnt to create six major regions. These burnt gaps will stall any fire fro spreading from region to the next.

The fire has taken a toll on the flora and fauna of the forest. And with the summer months almost upon us, the chances of reviving the lost natural habitats is quite low.

To make matters worse, the water seems to be gone even before summer months

Flickr

14 of the 46 ponds in the Yeoor hill range have already dried up forcing the residents of the neighbouring regions, who are dependant on them for water, to ration their limited source. The drastic drop in the water table has baffled forest officials who have been making several efforts to protect the water bodies using de-silting and moss straining techniques.

"While just a little fewer than 400 birds and animals were spotted in the last 24-hour census last year, the range is bound to have much more fauna. We have 46 watering holes for this variety of species across Yeoor, Nagla, Chane and Ghodbundar blocks in the forest. Of these 26 are perennial and the other 20 tend to have low water content towards the height of summer in the months of April and May. This year, 14 watering holes have already dried up, and we are trying our best to ensure that the others last at least till monsoon. There is also a river in Chena block that the animals can go to alternately," Sanjay Waghmode, Yeoor forest range officer, told The Times of India.
A Chinese scientist working on the world's biggest cloning factory claims the facility can replicate humans, and is only holding off for fear of the public reaction.

Boyalife Group and its partners are building the giant plant in the northern Chinese port of Tianjin, where it is due to go into production within the next seven months and aims for an output of one million cloned cows a year by 2020.

lunettesde

But cattle are only the beginning of chief executive Xu Xiaochun's ambitions.

In the factory pipeline are also thoroughbred racehorses, as well as pet and police dogs, specialised in searching and sniffing.

Boyalife is already working with its South Korean partner Sooam and the Chinese Academy of Sciences to improve primate cloning capacity to create better test animals for disease research.

And it is a short biological step from monkeys to humans -- potentially raising a host of moral and ethical controversies.

"The technology is already there," Xu said. "If this is allowed, I don't think there are other companies better than Boyalife that make better technology."

The firm does not currently engage in human cloning activities, Xu said, adding that it has to be "self-restrained" because of possible adverse reaction.

But social values can change, he pointed out, citing changing views of homosexuality and suggesting that in time humans could have more choices about their own reproduction.

"Unfortunately, currently, the only way to have a child is to have it be half its mum, half its dad," he said. "Maybe in the future you have three choices instead of one," he went on. "You either have fifty-fifty, or you have a choice of having the genetics 100 percent from Daddy or 100 percent from Mummy. This is only a choice."

Xu, 44, went to university in Canada and the US, and has previously worked for US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, and in drug development.

koslopolis

Boyalife Group and its partners are building a giant cloning factory in Tianjin, which will aim for presenting cloning as a safeguard of biodiversity, the Tianjin facility will house a gene bank capable of holding up to approximately five million cell samples frozen in liquid nitrogen - a catalogue of the world's endangered species for future regeneration.

Boyalife's South Korean partner Sooam is already working on a project to bring the woolly mammoth back from extinction by cloning cells preserved for thousands of years in the Siberian permafrost.

Sooam also serves a niche market recreating customers' dead pet dogs, reportedly for $100,000 a time.

netivist

Sooam founder Hwang Woo-Suk was a national hero with his own postage stamp before being embroiled in controversy a decade ago after his claims to be the first in the world to clone a human embryo were discredited.

Hwang, who created Snuppy, the world's first cloned dog, in 2005, lost his university position, had two major papers retracted, and was accused of crimes ranging from violation of bioethics laws to embezzling research funds.

Earlier this year he was quoted in South Korea's Dong-A-Ilbo newspaper saying that his firm was planning a cloning joint venture in China "because of South Korea's bioethics law that prohibits the use of human eggs".

"We have decided to locate the facilities in China in case we enter the phase of applying the technology to human bodies," he was quoted as saying.

Weird experiments

For now, Xu seeks to become the world's first purveyor of "cloned" beef, breeding genetically identical super-cattle that he promises will taste like Kobe and allow butchers to "slaughter less and produce more" to meet the demands of China's booming middle class.

Cloning differs from genetic modification, but its application to animals would enable the firm to homogenise its output.

"Everything in the supermarket looks good - its almost all shiny, good-looking, and uniformly shaped. For animals, we weren't able to do that in the past. But with our cloning factory, we choose to do so now," Xu said.

"Remember, this is a food. We want it to be uniform, very consistent, very premium quality," he added.

There is controversy over whether cloned beef is safe for human consumption -- research by the US Food and Drug Adminstration says that it is, but the European parliament has backed a ban on cloned animals and products in the food chain.

theblackvault

The UN's Food and Agriculture Organization has yet to review the issue.

Han Lanzhi, a GMO safety specialist at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said Boyalifes claims about the safety, scope and timeline of their operations were alarming -- and implausible.

"To get approval for the safety of cloned animals would be a very drawn-out process, so when I heard this news, I felt very surprised," she said.

There must be strong regulation because as a company pursuing its own interests, they could very easily do other things in the future," she added.

Xu sought to be reassuring,"We want the public to see that cloning is really not that crazy, that scientists arent weird, dressed in lab coats, hiding behind a sealed door doing weird experiments."
An unnamed Russian special forces officer has died as a legend, going out in a blaze of glory after calling an airstrike on himself after being surrounded by ISIS Isis militants in Syria.

He was part of an operations to retake the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria, state media reported.

ap

According to a Russian armed forces spokesperson, for he was stationed to hunt down crucial Isis facilities and provide co-ordinates for bombing.

"The officer died as a hero, calling a strike on to himself after he was compromised and surrounded by terrorists," the source said.

Russia Pounding ISIS With Bombs Tagged 'For Paris' And 'For Our People' After Paris Attacks

businessinsider

Russian special forces have been active in Syria after Russian President Vladimir Putin intervened to help the Syrian regime in September 2015. Despite UN and humanitarian organisations reports of civilian deaths, the Kremlin insists it has been targeting the Islamic State.

Russia Takes The War To ISIS, Carries Out 25 Air Strikes In Syria's Palmyra
Gilbert Chikli was a conman par excellence, stealing from the like of Accenture, Disney and American Express. His haul: at least 6.1 million euros from France alone.

But he had a problem....

....he couldn't spend the money

ap

A tangle of banking rules designed to stop con men like him stood between Chikli and his cash. He needed to find a weak link in the global financial system, a place to make his stolen money appear legitimate.

He found it in China

"China has become a universal, international gateway for all manner of scams," he said in an interview with The Associated Press.

"Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."

A visionary con man, Chikli realized early on  around 2000, the year before China joined the World Trade Organization  the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise, its entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. He says that he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance.

Today, he is in good company

ap

Criminals around the world have discovered that a good way to liberate their dirty money is to send it to China, which is emerging as an international hub for money laundering, an investigation has found. Gangs from Israel and Spain, North African cannabis dealers and cartels from Mexico and Colombia are among those using China as a haven where they can safely hide money, clean it, and pump it back into the global financial system, according to police officials, European and US court records and intelligence documents reviewed by us.

China's foreign ministry, central bank and police all refused repeated requests for comment. Chikli is widely credited in France with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president or fake CEO scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. And the damages are rising fast. Security cameras poke over the high wooden fence that encircles Chikli's property, a sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port city on the Mediterranean. Beyond that, a swing set, pink-and-purple tricycle and orange ball jumble his lawn. And then there is Chikli himself, tan and smiling at his massive front door. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison by a French court last year and remains a wanted man, but here in Israel, he lives openly and talked about his criminal exploits with pride during four hours of interviews.

"It's the power of persuasion," he said. "It's not easy to turn the head of a bank president."

ap

Dirty money has long washed through China, but has been viewed primarily as a domestic problem. Now, mounting evidence shows that non-Chinese criminals are learning to tap entrenched, sophisticated Chinese systems to move money illegally  largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement.

China's underground financial systems are of rising concern to top policymakers there, who are struggling to stem massive capital flight as the economy slows. Despite strict currency controls, a record net $711 billion gushed out of China last year, not counting foreign direct investment, according to estimates by Fitch Ratings.

A lot of that money leaks out illegally. Corporations undervalue exports or overvalue imports to move capital abroad, for example. Money changers and underground banks routinely help mainland Chinese slip cash out of the country in excess of the official $50,000-a-year limit. Global Financial Integrity, a Washington-DC non-profit, ranks China as the world's largest exporter of illicit money.

"Wherever I go in the world, there is a growing Chinese presence," said John Cassara, a former financial intelligence agent at the U.S. Treasury Department. "It's only natural that the Chinese are going to bring their financial systems with them  their above-board financial systems and their underground systems."

"It's completely off the radar screen," Cassara said. "No one knows about it."

But Chikli knew. "Gilbert Chikli knows that China is a springboard to be able to bounce money off of," said the con man, who often spoke of himself in the third person. "It's not a secret. The whole world knows that China is a hub for sending and receiving money."

THE 'FAKE CEO SCAM'

The first con, the one that made Chikli realize he had "the gift," began in Paris on the afternoon of July 25, 2005, with a phone call.

When Madame G., who ran a branch of La Banque Postale, picked up the phone, a man with a sure, powerful voice said he was the bank's CEO and needed her help on a top-secret terrorism investigation, French court documents show. He dropped details about past meetings that left Madame G., whose name cannot be published due to French privacy laws, convinced of his identity. The man told her a secret agent named Paul would be in touch.

Following instructions, Madame G. bought a burner phone to communicate with Paul. Over the next three days, he hammered her with 43 calls.

Some of the bank's clients, Paul explained, were suspected of running money for terrorists. Less than three weeks earlier, four suicide bombers linked to Al Qaida blew themselves up in central London, killing 52 people and injuring 700 more. Photographs of bloody, burned commuters staggering from the London Underground were everywhere.

Paul told Madame G. he needed the names of the bank's biggest clients. He wanted her to bring him cash. He would scan the bills to see if they were stolen, then they'd meet at a bistro on Rue de la Paix and he'd return the money. She was a key player in a major anti-terrorism operation.

He was counting on her

On July 28, Madame G. stuffed 358,000 euros ($398,000) in a bag and took a taxi to a cafe in eastern Paris. She walked into a stall in the restroom. She heard a woman say the secret password. Madame G. passed the cash-filled bag under the stall. Mission accomplished.

Then she went to the bistro on Rue de la Paix and waited on the terrace. But where was Paul?

After she went to the police, investigators eventually traced the calls to Chikli. Paul was, in Chikli's telling, just one of his many stage names. The woman who took the cash in the bathroom was Chikli's mistress. Chikli's brother, Simon, drove the getaway car, according to French court documents.

Back then, it was a game to Chikli. But if he wanted to get more money than would fit in a sack, he had to take his criminal ambitions global.

Banks are supposed to know their customers  not just their identities, but also where their money comes from. To scale up his fraud, Chikli needed a way around international anti-money laundering norms.

He had a number of options for cleaning his cash. Chikli called HSBC and tricked an employee into sending money to one of his Hong Kong front companies, which bounced it to a guy in Fujian province, who told investigators that he often used his bank account to launder money for Israelis, in exchange for a 5 percent commission. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts.

The Bank of China refused to comment.

But Chikli's preferred method, which he described for the first time in detail to the AP, was to use import-export schemes.

Such trade-based money laundering is a growing concern for US authorities. Mexican and Colombian drug cartels laundered more than $5 billion in drug proceeds in part by exporting counterfeit goods from China, according to a US Justice Department indictment against three Colombians based in Guangzhou.

Chikli ordered companies to send money to bank accounts around the world  often, he said, in Eastern Europe. Then, he'd bounce the funds to Hong Kong and China and arrange for them to be withdrawn in cash. The money was used to purchase merchandise  shoes, gold, steel, textiles  in China. For a commission, the Chinese vendor then issued highly inflated receipts to Chikli's shell companies, creating a "legal" paper trail. Typically, Chikli said, he'd actually buy some goods, while forwarding most of his cash to another account he controlled. He might purchase, say, 20 tons of steel, but bribe the vendor to give him a receipt for 100 tons.

Chikli sold the goods and then sent the money to Israel, where false invoices made the entire sum look like legitimate trading profits, he said.

"Everything is clean," he said. "Give me the documents and everything is fine."

The Washing Machine

Chikli used to run a clothing company in Sentier, a late 18th-century Paris neighborhood built atop a medieval slum. Sentier was once a neighborhood for strivers _ first Jews from Eastern Europe and North Africa, then Chinese who moved into the wholesale textile trade. Chikli forged the idea for his scam on these streets.

The tools of his trade are simple: telephones. Chikli called the company that runs Disneyland Paris, pretending to be the CEO. He called French technology conglomerate Thomson SA and persuaded an employee to transfer millions to accounts in Russia, Switzerland and England. He called Barclays, Galeries Lafayette, American Express.

Eventually, French authorities caught up with him and put him on trial for dozens of attempted frauds, many thwarted only at the last moment. In 2009, Chikli posted 30,000 euros ($33,500) bail. His passport was confiscated and he was ordered to remain in France to stand trial. Instead, he chartered a private plane, he claims, and fled to Israel.

A French court found him guilty last May of defrauding La Banque Postale, LCL bank and HSBC, along with Thomson and Accenture, out of 6.1 million euros, and attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others. But by then, he was living by the sea in Ashdod.

It was, perhaps, his most masterful con of all

Israeli authorities would not say whether France had made a formal request for Chikli's extradition. French judicial officials have not responded to repeated requests for clarification on the status of any extradition request related to Chikli. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in some cases.

Israeli authorities also declined to explain why Chikli is able to live freely in Israel. A spokesman for the state attorney's office, Noam Sharvit, would only say that Israeli law enforcement is "doing all they can to fight and contain these criminal phenomena."

Law enforcement has not globalized as fast as crime, and the legal firewall that surrounds China has added to its appeal as a money-laundering hub.

Chinese authorities generally have done little to help Western companies defrauded in Chikli-style scams recover their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed,

The US state department, in a report this month, reproached China for lackluster performance on money-laundering investigations.

"China has not cooperated sufficiently on financial investigations and does not provide adequate responses to requests for financial investigation information," the State Department wrote.

Jay Bienkowski, an FBI supervisory special agent in Washington who has retired since speaking to the AP, said extradition is crucial for apprehending criminals across borders. But China and the U.S. do not have an extradition treaty.

Europol, the European Union law enforcement agency, has no cooperation agreement with China.

"For us it's a blind spot," said Igor Angelini, Europol's head of financial intelligence.

'May be it was god'

Chikli insists he no longer runs fake CEO scams. But a new generation of fraudsters is copying his technique. Using information gleaned from social media and hacking, they impersonate top executives and convince employees to route money to accounts they control, ostensibly to do business deals or pay suppliers.

The FBI said it received 13,500 complaints from fake CEO scam victims around the world  a rise of 270 percent last year.

"It's a significant scam. Big dollars, and relatively recent," said Bienkowski. "It's scary."

The frauds hinge on delicate detail: A faked email ending in .co instead of .com. A name off by a single letter. The pressure is always relentless. A critical deal must be executed immediately, in total secrecy. A new supplier urgently needs payment.

The FBI traced fake CEO scam transfers to over 70 different countries. "At the very top of that list is Hong Kong and China," Bienkowski said.

Some of the networks now running fake CEO scams are collaborating with Chinese migrants in Europe to launder their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed.

"Non-Chinese criminal groups committing CEO frauds are sending money to China because Chinese criminal groups in Europe are giving them cash," Angelini told the AP. "The scale of this phenomenon is quite substantial."

Police believe Chinese migrants and Israeli con men first learned to work together in Chikli's old neighborhood, Sentier, forging a system for laundering money so elegant that today some migrants consider it "the fastest and most secure and most reliable method for Chinese merchants to transfer their funds to China," according to European intelligence documents.

The methods they've devised are a variation of the ancient Chinese system of fei qian (FAY ch'ien), or "flying money."

Chinese immigrants first give their cash to a trusted member of the local Chinese community in France, Italy, Spain, Belgium or Germany and indicate where their money should be remitted. That Chinese intermediary  the bagman  provides the Israeli contacts with the relevant bank account information. The Israelis then direct their stolen money to those accounts in China. Once the Chinese confirm the money has landed in the correct account, the bagman hands over their cash, in euros, to the Israelis.

The Israelis get euros in Europe, the Chinese get yuan in China.

"It works like an offsetting operation between (the) Chinese community and crooks in Israel," according to the intelligence documents, which note that the Israelis usually charge a 2.5% fee.

France's financial crimes squad in June busted a similar money transfer network in a Chinese wholesale district in Aubervilliers, in the suburbs of Paris, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers.

While Chikli's copycats may have tapped into flying money networks, Chikli said he never used them himself.

He claimed that many of the people running scams today are French Jews who have fled anti-Semitism in France and use the con to rebuild their lives in Israel.

"If it can help these families who have lost everything in France," he said, "then all the better. "Maybe it was God that gave me this idea."

'Thank You For Calling'

At 50, Chikli's even, chiseled face is beginning to show signs of age. He insists his intention was never to harm people, but to take revenge on a financial system that lets the rich steal with impunity. He saw who wielded real power in the world: Corporations and the people that run them. And if the son of a poor Tunisian car mechanic could not be a CEO, he could at least pretend to be one. "I understood that the bankers were never convicted," he said. "If the bankers were never convicted, then I needed to indirectly become an official banker."

As a scrappy 8-year-old, Chikli stole notebooks from school and resold them to his classmates.

He later got into credit card fraud. "We would go shopping," he said. "It was pretty nice because we felt like we were the owners of something, which we were not."

He studied acting. Worked in advertising and real estate. But his true vocation was persuasion.

"The brain is the world's most dangerous weapon," Chikli said.

"I learned not to control but to try to make someone believe that I was right. And from that moment, all the doors opened."

Chikli calls this "the gift." With it, extracting millions from some of the world's best educated and most privileged can be a matter of a single phone call.

"It can last two hours. It can last four hours. It can last five minutes," he said. "It's cinema." Chikli maintains that his real accomplices were the employees who took his calls and complied with his demands.

He threatened them, he bullied them and he seduced them.

He said he made amends to about 30 people who executed his orders  some of whom lost their jobs  by sending credit cards linked to offshore bank accounts with about 50,000 euros ($55,800) each. "Everyone took  everyone. There was not one who refused," he claimed. He said he gave one bank manager 18 roses.

"She was pulverized," he said. "If I remember correctly, we sent her 180,000 euros. That's how we wanted to apologize." Chikli would provide no evidence to support his claims.

Today, Chikli has himself amassed many trappings of a banker's life: White baby grand piano. Glass elevator. Fendi bedboard.

A glam wife 19 years his junior, tattooed with "Gilbert" in curling letters next to a heart on her slim wrist

This fugitive from French justice is the hero of a new film starring Julie Gayet, the companion of French President Francois Hollande. Producer Isaac Sharry met Chikli while he was awaiting trial in a French jail and paid him for the rights to his story.
WLS-TV(CHICAGO) -- A Chicago teen critically injured in a street shooting this weekend was an anti-violence advocate.

Zarriel Trotter, 13, took part in a public service video last year, featuring statements against gun violence by several black children and teens. He was also a mentor at his school.

Trotter was shot in the back by a stray bullet when a fight broke out in his neighborhood Friday. Chicago Police officials said two groups were arguing when one person pulled out a gun and fired a few shots. Trotter, who was unrelated to either group, was hit by a one of the bullets.

He was taken to the hospital in critical condition and underwent surgery over the weekend, according to reports by ABC News affiliate WLS-TV in Chicago. Hospital officials declined to give an update on his condition, citing federal privacy laws. Trotter's family also declined, through hospital officials, to give comment.

In the public service video produced last year, called "Black is Human," Trotter spoke about the frequent violence he witnessed in his neighborhood.

"I don't want to live around my community where I've got to keep on hearing and hearing: People keep on getting shot, people keep on getting killed," he said.

Trotters Principal at the Catalyst Circle Rock Charter School, Elizabeth Jamison-Dunn, told ABC News that the seventh-grader had taken part in a mentorship program at the school.

Hes a great a scholar, she told ABC News. Ive known him since he was a little boy. He has a brother in third grade -- hes a great big brother for his younger brother.

Jamison-Dunn said she, along with her staff, plan on talking to students about the violence to provide some sense of security.

He was just outside playing," she said. "It can create a fear [for students]. We want to comfort our students and let them know we will do everything in our power to keep them safe.

Copyright  2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Leaders of 29 different ethnic communities spread across five local government areas in Kaduna State have signed a peace accord.

Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State and his Plateau State counterpart, Simon Lalong, witnessed the signing of the accord in Kafanchan, Jemaa local government area of Kaduna.

The peace accord was at the instance of Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (CHD), ably supported by the Canadian Government.

In his remarks, Governor El-Rufai described the accord as a statement by communities in Southern Kaduna of their commitment to peace and their choice of dialogue and non-violence in resolving disputes.

The Kaduna State Government warmly welcomes the Kafanchan Peace Declaration. I congratulate the communities and leaders of the selected local government areas of Sanga, Kachia, Kaura, Zangon Kataf and Jemaa for choosing dialogue over blows. I am glad to see 29 ethnic communities headed by 32 chairs, from these five LGAs, many of who have been involved in conflict in the past with and against each other, sitting here as one, he said.

Mr. El-Rufai, however, said he was opposed to the perpetuation of no-go zones in any community, and will instead promote integration in schools and residential areas.

The government is committed to fairness, in promoting investments, jobs and infrastructure across the state, he assured.
At least 65 people  mostly women and children  have been killed at a crowded park in Pakistan in a suicide blast that also wounded more than 300 people, officials said. A faction of the Pakistani Taliban, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, later claimed responsibility for the attack in the eastern city of Lahore and said that it was aimed at Christians.

Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from the capital Islamabad, said Christians were celebrating Easter Sunday at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, which is popular with families, when the bomber blew himself up a few metres from a childrens play area. On Monday, authorities said they would launch a manhunt for those behind the attack after Jamaat-ul-Ahrar issued a direct challenge to the government.

We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore, a spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said. He can do what he wants but he wont be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks. The group claimed responsibility for several big attacks after it split with the main Pakistani Taliban in 2014. It declared allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant but later said it was rejoining the Taliban campaign.

We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty, military spokesman Asim Bajwa said on Twitter. TV footage showed children and women standing in pools of blood outside the park, crying and screaming as rescue workers, officials, police and bystanders carried injured people to ambulances and private cars.
Thousands of protesters have clashed with police near parliament in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, against the execution of a man charged with murdering a governor for his criticism of blasphemy laws. Police fired tear gas to stop an estimated 25,000 protesters, some of whom tried to forcibly enter the security zone of the capital, dubbed the red zone.

Al Jazeeras Kamal Hyder, reporting from Islamabad, said that military was called in to take over security in the red zone. Their main task will be to secure the zone that includes parliament, Pakistan Television, the foreign office, the Supreme Court and diplomatic enclave, he said. Protesters marched from the garrison town of Rawalpindi to Islamabad in solidarity with Mumtaz Qadri, who was charged and executed for the murder of Punjab province governor Salman Taseer.

The crowd is massive and the police used blockades and tear gas on protesters as they were getting out of control, Sami Yousafzai, who was present at the protest site told Al Jazeera. They want the blasphemy law to be active and anyone who says anything blasphemous about Prophet Muhammad should be executed.

Taseer was shot 28 times by Qadri, his bodyguard, in January 2011 for defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. The protest leaders said they would hold a sit-in until their demands were met, but did not specify what their demands were.
The Nigerian Army has promised a reward of N1 million for anyone with useful information that could lead to the rescue of its abducted officer, Samaila Inusa.

It also promised to give adequate protection to anyone who provide useful information, adding that such tip-off would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Mr. Inusa, a colonel serving in the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji, was abducted around Kamazo near NNPC Junction, Kaduna State at about 7.30pm on Saturday, 26 March, 2016.

As part of efforts to successfully rescue the senior officer, a spokesperson for the 1 Division, Nigerian Army in Kawo, Kaduna, Col. Usman Abdul, announced the cash-for-information offer to journalists on Monday morning.

The Army had earlier promised a N500,000 cash reward for information, but on Monday raised the amount to N1million.

Similarly, the Acting Director, Public Relations of the Nigerian Army, Colonel Sani Usman, said Anyone with useful information or assistance to assist in tracking these abductors should get across to us on the following telephone numbers 08033865572, 08030489203, 08023445961, 08058130703. They drove in a Mercedes car with registration number KUJ 154TZ.
Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to go beyond apologizing to Nigerians for some of the hardships they are currently passing through by correcting some of the flawed policies and steps his administration has taken in the last 10 months.

The governor also urged Mr. Buhari to stop seeing himself as a sectional leader or president of only the All Progressives Congress but as the leader of all groups and people of the country.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Idowu Adelusi on Sunday in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, Mr. Fayose, however, commended President Buhari for admitting some errors his government had made.

He further advised the president to be wary of some selfish persons in the APC who were bent on using his name to commit atrocities in the name of politics.

The statement read, This is a moment of truth. I commend the President for being bold enough to apologise for his lapses. He has come out to admit and accept that criticism is part of democracy. He can do whatever he likes, but it must be within the ambit of the law.

The President has swallowed his pride by admitting that there is a sharp drop in electricity and that we are experiencing an agonising fuel scarcity in the country. They told us the refineries are working, but that is a lie, we are still importing fuel.

The President cannot continue to apologise for everything. A leader must think very well before making policy statements.

The Ekiti governor also called on the president, who doubles as the Minister of Petroleum Resources, to find a permanent solution to the lingering fuel scarcity, address job losses and pay attention to issues of security rather than expending his energy on muzzling opposition in the country.

Look at the Agatu killings. That place is a food basket for the country and when herdsmen went on the rampage, destroying lives and property, we should not fold arms, he said.

Fayose also condemned the manner elections were conducted under the present administration, lamenting that the gains recorded in the electoral process under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan are gradually been eroded.

It is an understatement to describe the elections in Kogi, Bayelsa and Rivers states by the Buhari administration as a show of shame. This is an aspect where the President has to be very careful. He must not allow himself to be used by some rejected and crooked politicians, he stated.
The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has described as laughable fabrications, allegations that it sold foreign exchange to the wife of the president, Hajiya Aisha Buhari and other high ranking Presidency officials at the rate of N185 to a dollar.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, which made the weighty allegations on Saturday, had claimed that the CBN, on the instructions of its governor, Godwin Emefiele, sold $22 million to Mrs. Buhari at the exchange rate of N185, which she in turn sold same day at the rate of N362 to a dollar, making huge profit.

The opposition party also accused the Presidents Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu; Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari and a Bureau De Change company linked to Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Danbazau, of receiving $800,000, $400,000 and $6 million at N185 and selling at N350, N340 and N362 respectively.

The presidents wife and Mr. Shehu have since strongly denied the allegations while threatening to drag those behind the false accusations to court for defamation of character.

Reacting to the allegations in a series of tweets Sunday night, the apex bank not only dismissed the claims by the PDP, it said there was never a time its exchange rate stood at N185 to a dollar.

PDP's stories of sale of FOREX to individuals by #CBN are laughable fabrications.  Central Bank of Nigeria (@cenbank) March 27, 2016
The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki yesterday said fire disasters ravaging markets in the country are negatively affecting the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Saraki stated this in a statement to commiserate with victims of Saturdays fire disaster that ravaged the popular Abubakar Rimi market in Kano.

Also on Saturday, an early morning fire gutted the Birnin Kebbi Central market in Kebbi State.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki lamented the continuous occurrences of fire disasters in markets across the country.

He, therefore, urged the managements of markets to always employ all modern means of preventing and combating fire disasters to ensure traders are not subjected to this harrowing loss.

The continuous loss of merchandise and properties in many commodity markets in the country and Kano in particular to fire disasters has reached a worrisome level that requires urgent measures to combat the trend.

These fire incidents had deprived our hard working and determined traders the means of livelihood and survival and these are expectedly breadwinners of their families. In addition, these losses represent the depletion of national wealth as most of the victims constitute a significant chunk of entrepreneurial class who are supposedly great contributors to the nations Gross Domestic Product (GDP), he said.

The Senate president also urged the state government to ensure thorough investigation to unravel the cause of the incident and forestall occurrence.
Former member of the House of Representatives, Halims Agoda, yesterday accused Minister of State for Petroleum Ibe Kachikwu of sabotaging the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the petroleum sector and backed calls for his resignation.

In a statement in Abuja yesterday, Agoda said the ministers recent remark of not being a magician to immediately end the queues at filling stations was not necessary. Agoda asked the minister to resign if he could not end the lingering fuel crisis.

The member representing Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State in the House of Representatives, Linus Okorie, on his part, faulted the attack of the APC National leader Bola Tinubu on the minister.

Tinubu mysteriously derailed from this ennobling track for no sensible reason than, probably, an urge to redeem some modicum of public respect and confidence for APC, he said.

The party has evidently lost more political capital through a consistent display of planlessness and crass incompetence than even its extreme opponents could have contemplated, a few short months ago.

Tinubu did this by attempting a weak and non-contextual connection of PDP to the undemocratic excesses of a rapidly evolving fascist regime of APC.

APC has a responsibility to deliver on its over 3,000 promises to Nigerians and would do well to keep its eye on the ball than this compulsive and overburdened recline into the past, the lawmaker said.
Love at first whiff is the idea behind Smell Dating, a New York matchmaking service that promises to help single people sniff out their perfect match by breathing in the odors from dirty T-shirts. Artist Tega Brain, who teaches at New Yorks School for Poetic Computation, and Sam Lavigne, an editor and researcher at New York University, created Smell Dating, which they describe as an art project.

Each of its first 100 clients received a T-shirt to wear for three days straight without bathing. The clients then mailed the T-shirts back to Brain and Lavignes Sweat Shop at NYU, where they were cut into swatches. Smell Dating then sent batches of 10 mixed swatches back to the clients to sniff this week. A match will be made if one client likes the scent of another and the olfactory attraction is mutual. In other words, if Client 55 likes Client 69 and vice versa, put a heart around it, Brain said.

The idea is based on the science of pheromones, the chemical signals that creatures from gerbils to giraffes send out to entice mates. Clients, who pay a one-time fee of $25, dive in nose-first, unaware of a potential smell-mates age, gender or sexual orientation. Most normal dating services, you rely on profile pictures, assumptions that come from visual information, Brain said. You either really like the smell of someone or you dont. Its much more innate.

On Wednesday, 25-year-old NYU graduate student Jesse Donaldson excitedly opened the package of white swatches in individually numbered plastic bags that had arrived at his apartment in Brooklyn. He said he hoped Smell Dating could help where other popular matchmaking services had failed. Im like so many other people in New York City, using Tinder, using OK Cupid, Donaldson said, and my main issue with these things is you feel like youre shopping for somebody as opposed to making a genuine connection with another human being.

Reuters.
It is a most tragic tale, 40-year-old Asad Shah was sent to an early grave for celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. The shopkeeper from Glasgow who has been described by those who knew him as peace-loving was stabbed 30 times in his shop after he had praised both the life of Jesus and his beloved Christian nation. He died in hospital.

Police say the murder is religiously motivated and are questioning a 32-year-old man.

Mohammad Faisal, a family friend, said a bearded Muslim wearing a long religious robe entered Mr Shahs shop and spoke to him in his native language before stabbing him in the head with a kitchen knife.

Mr Shahs brother, who was working next door, rushed out to find the killer laughing while sitting on the shopkeepers bleeding chest.

The brother dragged Mr Shah away but the guy continued attacking with the blade, said Mr Faisal. They struggled up to the bus stop where Asad collapsed.

It was just a clear-cut revenge attack. For posting messages about peace, messages about greeting fellow Christians and Jews.

That man must not have been too happy about what he was doing, what he was preaching. It was a well-planned attack. He must have been an extremist.

He went straight for the head. He got stomped on the head as well. His brother suffered a slash down his shoulder area because he attacked him with a knife as well.

Before his death, Mr Shah had wished his friends a Good Friday and a very happy Easter, especially to my beloved Christian nation.

In his final post, he wrote: Lets follow the real footstep of beloved holy Jesus Christ and get the real success in both worlds.

He also spoke out against the Brussels attacks on his Facebook page.

In a video posted online he said: We are not here to fight with other mankind or cause bloodshed.

Hundreds of people including the Scottish first minister, Nicola Sturgeon gathered for a silent vigil late to honour the respected shopkeeper near the site where he died.

Deeply religious, Mr Shah worked to foster cross-community relations in Glasgow and had been planning to host an online debate last night with Christian friends about the importance of Easter. Friends said he observed both Christian and Muslim holidays, and never failed to send out Easter and Christmas cards. And he used his social media accounts to promote harmony on religious holidays.

It is believed he belonged to the Ahmadi movement, a Muslim sect which promotes non-violence and tolerance of other faiths.

Ahmadis identify themselves as Muslims and a determined missionary network has helped spread their teachings around the world.

The sect however has drawn the ire of mainstream Islam and suffer severe persecution, its headquarters in South London has been targeted by arsonists.

Source: UK Daily Mail
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has recorded a major success in the war against drug trafficking with the interception of a heroin-laden letter in Lagos.

The letter according to the agency, was sent from Bengaluru, India, on Express Mail Service (EMS) and addressed to one Mr Yunusa Amusan, 33, in Mushin, Lagos.

The NDLEA in a statement Monday by its spokesperson, Ofoyeju Mitchell, said about four hundred and eighty (480) grammes of powdery substance that tested positive for heroin was found inside the letter.

The statement disclosed that the thin parcels of heroin was carefully concealed in the letter in a manner that makes it almost impossible to detect.

The statement quoted the NDLEA Chairman/Chief Executive, Col. Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (rtd), as saying that the arrest was made possible by the diversification of the agencys operations.

The operations of the Agency have been diversified to cover mail services. Drug control is an intelligence-led operation and the NDLEA under my dispensation will spread its tentacles to all possible areas of narcotic smuggling. We will not relent in taking deliberate and sustained efforts towards preventing drug trafficking under any guise in the country be it by air, land and water, Abdallah stated.

The NDLEA boss further said investigation revealed that the suspect, who is in custody, allegedly connived with his uncle who lives in India to import heroin disguised as letters to Nigeria.

Mr. Abdallah assured Nigerians that the NDLEA will always work towards a drug-free society.

In his confession, Mr. Amusan said: I run errands for my uncle who lives in India. He used to send money and letters to me to give to his wives and friends. Sometimes he will ask me to buy foodstuff and send to him in India and in return, he gives me money to take care and sustain myself.

The suspect, who claims to be an indigene of Ogun State and unmarried, said he dropped out of school and learnt how to repair faulty television sets.

After my Junior Secondary School Certificate, I could not further my education due to lack of sponsorship. I later learnt how to repair television sets but could not rent a shop to start my own business. The letter my uncle sent to me was opened in my presence and other officers and it was found to contain heroin, he confessed.
Vanguard

THE ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, was literally divided, yesterday, over whether or not Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, should retain his prime position in the APC-led Federal Government on account of the worsening fuel scarcity and his comments that he is not a magician.

Punch

The scarcity of petrol continued on Sunday in many cities across the country, as hundreds of motorists thronged the few filling stations that dispensed the product.

Thisday

Following the passage of the 2016 Appropriation Bill by the National Assembly last week, President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered all the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to thoroughly review the budget before it is sent to him for assent

The Sun

AS Nigerians groan over the persisting fuel scarcity, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc, Mr Tunji Oyebanji, says the solution was for the Federal Government to deregulate the downstream petroleum industry.

Daily Times

President Muhammadu Buhari has been charged to, as a matter of urgency, address the lingering fuel scarcity, increasing job losses and security issues in the country.

Guardian

Military authorities at One Mechanized Division of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna at the weekend disclosed that a senior army officer, Colonel Samaila Inusa, has been kidnapped by unknown persons.

Daily Trust

The South-South national vice chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Hilliard Eta, has asked the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Ibe Kachikwu, to resign from his position if he is not capable of doing his part by efficiently running the ministry assigned to him

Leadership

The senior special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media, Malam Garba Shehu, yesterday disclosed that the Presidency would soon begin to hold town hall meetings with Nigerians to furnish them with necessary governmental information.

National Mirror

Cleric urges Nigerians to keep faith with Buhari

Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Cyriacus Kamai of Jalingo diocese, has urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the leadership of the country.

Tribune

SENIOR Special Assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on Public Affairs, Doyin Okupe, on Sunday, defended the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Ibe Kachikwu, in view of the odium the minister attracted for reportedly stating that the present fuel shortage would last till May.

The Nation

The cash recovered from former public officers under probe by anti-graft agencies will not be made public yet because it will be used as evidence against them in court, the Presidency said yesterday.
The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, yesterday, urged the Federal Government to return Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in camps to military liberated communities in the state.

The royal father made the call when the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sadiq Baba Abubakar, paid a courtesy visit to his palace in Maiduguri. He said peace had returned to 22 insurgency affected local government areas in the state.

Garbai El-Kanemi also said as peace had returned to the insurgency affected council areas of Borno State, the over two million IDPs in various camps of Maiduguri and Biu, are eager to go back to their respective liberated towns and villages.

In his response, Air Marshal Abubakar assured the monarch that the military would not fail the people of Borno State on the restoration of peace. He said this would enable all the displaced persons in various resettlement camps return to their respective communities, within the shortest possible period of time.
The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, whose members were killed in their numbers last year December by soldiers of the Nigerian Army, has denied rumors making the rounds that it has a hand in the abduction of colonel Samaila Inusa.

Inusa was kidnapped at the weekend in Kaduna by unknown gunmen.

A statement by the IMNs spokesperson, Ibrahim Musa on Monday, said the claims that Shiites are responsible for the abduction is meant to tarnish its image.

We wish to state here categorically that the Islamic Movement in Nigeria under the leadership of His Eminence, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky has never, is not and will never engage in any form of crime to meet any of its objectives, the statement said in part.

It further said: The IMN is a peaceful Movement, with enlightened and responsible people as members that has for close to four decades conducted its activities in the most civilized manner and cannot in any way derail from that track record and engage in any form of crime or violence.

The Islamic Movement is aware that due to negligence of those in power who careless about the welfare of their citizens, a lot of crimes including kidnapping have become common in the country and the IMN condemns all forms of crimes and preaches against them as a religious body.
A court in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sentenced 11 people charged with terrorism and raising money for al-Qaeda and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in Syria to life imprisonment, state news agency WAM reported. A total of 41 defendants were charged in October with possessing firearms and ammunition with the intention of committing terrorist crimes against the country and its security, according to WAM.

The statement on Sunday did not specify the suspects nationalities. It said two of those given life terms were sentenced in absentia.

Four other defendants were sentenced to six months in prison for the possession of non-explosive weapons. WAM added that the men also faced prison for raising funds and financial support to other terrorist groups such as al-Nusra Front and Daesh in Syria, using Arabic names which refer to al-Qaedas branch in the war-torn country and ISIL.

Twenty three of the remaining 41 defendants were sentenced to between five and 15 years behind bars and the rest were acquitted. ISIL has pledged to overthrow the monarchies of the Gulf and mounted a series of attacks on Shia Muslim mosques and security forces in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Aljazeera.
Nigeria is supposed to rank among the greatest countries in the world considering her rich natural and human resources yet it remained under developed. Many have attributed Nigerias greatest problem to disunity, corruption, power and so on. INFORMATION NIGERIA in this piece highlight 9 things that have continuously plagued Nigerias growth but lets see which of them you think is the biggest of them all

CORRUPTION

Poor management of funds, political instability and poor governance continue to tear Nigeria apart. Nigeria although not the most violent in Africa, remains the most corrupt country in Africa today with very high unemployment rates. Almost all political figures in Nigeria today engage themselves in corrupt activities leaving the average Nigerian on the streets with nothing but poverty, anger and despair.

ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION

Gradual deterioration of the environment including soil degradation caused mainly by oil spills especially in the Niger Delta areas. Oil spillage poisons food sources and water bodies in most of these areas, rapid deforestation, air and water pollution especially in urban areas, desertification (especially in the northern parts), rapid urbanization which puts much pressure on available resources, etc. remain some of the major environmental issues facing Nigeria today.

TERRORISM

Attacks are on the rise in Nigeria, which is the increased activities of Boko Haram over the past year. Bombings, kidnappings, and other violent activities of Boko Haram prevent many Nigerians from feeling safe.

POWER

The power sector is corrupt and mismanaged, and many workers in the electricity sector are not equipped with the proper skills or training. Domestic production suffers in these conditions, but many foreign companies also find it difficult to conduct business in Nigeria because of frequent power failures. This problem keeps Nigeria a Third World country from year to year.

GENDER DISCRIMINATION

Many people in Nigeria still believe that only men should be in positions of power. There are many causes of gender inequality in Nigeria. Some archaic traditions and customs do not permit women to occupy top professions or political offices. As a result, women in Nigeria face discrimination and violence. Unemployment in Nigeria affects the women most when compared with that of men. This is due to the fact that some women are neglected due to their sex and weaknesses.

CIVIC PRIDE AND PATRIOTISM IN NIGERIA

Nigeria suffers from a deficit of civic pride and collective responsibility. Wealthy Nigerians do little to use what they have to help the masses. Instead, they transfer their money to foreign banks rather than making it useful for the nation. When these wealthy men want to go on holiday, they travel to United States or Canada, and many emigrate to the developed world rather than spend their money.here. Made in Nigerian goods also suffer patronage as a result.

BIODIVERSITY

More than 65 percent of Nigerians live oFf nature and its goods. Farming, fisheries, logging and manufacturing are all examples of this. 70-80 percent of Nigerias original forests have disapeared through logging, agriculture, city expansion, expansion of roads and building of industry. This has led to loss of plants and animals that depend on these forests. With the expected consequences of climate change these losses are expected to increase.

DISUNITY

The average Igbo man would see himself more as an Igbo first before seeing himself as a Nigerian as it is evident in their succession clamor. We are supposed to vote for the best candidate as a nation on merit and not on the basis of ethnicity.

UNEMPLOYMENT

The unemployment rate in Nigeria is so high and becoming so alarming.

Which do you think???
If youve ever looked around your company headquarters and thought to yourself: I should be running things, maybe youre right. For those with vision, tech chops, and people skills -- along with a laser focus on turning a profit -- being a companys tech lead may be the right fit.

But you have questions: How do I get started? Do I need a graduate degree? And whats it like to manage effectively at the highest levels?

[ Find out how to handle the real-world problems faced by developers, with InfoWorld's professional programmer's business survival guide. | Keep up with hot topics in programming with InfoWorld's Application Development newsletter. ]

Luckily, we have answers from a range of technology executives from firms around the country -- long-established players and plucky startups. These experts shared what it takes to lead, how they began, what they learned along the way, and the best way to make the leap to the top of the org chart.

Tech leadership in 2016

When Steve Nigro started at Hewlett-Packard 35 years ago, he was an engineer developing the companys first inkjet printer. Today, he runs the companys 3D printing business.

Weve seen enormous shifts in technology and how work gets done, Nigro says. This experience has taught me that strong leadership in innovation and technology is the foundation for compelling businesses. You must never lose sight of where technology is going and the implication on industries and your business.

Tech leaders these days increasingly need current software coding skills. -- Jeanine Banks, global head of products and solutions, Axway

In addition to readying yourself for constant change and the ability to understand new technology, youll also benefit from the skills that got you where you are today.

Tech leaders these days increasingly need current software coding skills, says Jeanine Banks, global head of products and solutions at Axway. You dont have to be an expert and maybe youll never create an app that pays the bills, but it definitely helps in keeping a personal understanding of how software can be applied to business problems and opportunities.

DomainTools CTO Bruce Roberts argues that leadership means being able to make decisions that go beyond engineering the product.

I can't succeed as a technical leader unless I can attract and retain engineers. -- Bruce Roberts, CTO, DomainTools

I can't succeed as a technical leader unless I can attract and retain engineers, says Roberts, who heads DomainTools Seattle and Luxembourg engineering teams. I inherited job postings that were clearly not speaking to engineers. They contained way too much fluff and not enough substance. I rewrote those to be much more engineer-focused and very specific about the interesting technical benefits and challenges engineers would have if they came to work for me.

As an example, Roberts points to the job-listing bullet point that consistently catches candidates eyes:  Work with big data and machine learning that matters. We're not just trying to sell more ads or widgets; we're helping organizations improve their security and protect against cyber attacks and domain hijacking.

Tech leadership in todays tight job market requires knowing what excites the best candidates to join your team, Robert adds. I saw a problem -- weak job postings -- and solved it.

Jump-start the process

If youve decided that becoming a tech lead is where you want to be, how do you get the ball rolling? It starts by stretching yourself, say our experts, and finding ways to take on challenging projects, while making your voice heard and stepping out of your comfort zone.

Youre going to stumble at first, but thats how you learn and grow. Start asking Why? and What if? These are very powerful questions. Speak up more. Your ideas are worth attention and respect. Self-confidence is an important part of leading a team. -- Nick Hill, vice president of product management, Jive Software

Youre going to stumble at first, but thats how you learn and grow, says Nick Hill, vice president of product management at Jive Software. Start asking Why? and What if? These are very powerful questions. Speak up more. Your ideas are worth attention and respect. Self-confidence is an important part of leading a team.

Axways Banks proposes getting your nails dirty: Tech leaders of the future should get involved in whats happening in their local scene. Most major cities these days have tech hubs or meetups you can join. I travel a lot, so I make time to take as I go from city to city to hop into a devops seminar, slip into a Docker tech lab, or participate in a hackathon. At the same time, I attend a lot of leadership seminars and luncheons to get a regular dose of encouragement and inspiration from the broader business community.

The skills you learn travel up the chain well as your domain experience and tenure grows. -- Jeffry Nimeroff, CIO, Zeta Interactive

According to Jeffry Nimeroff, CIO of New York analytics firm Zeta Interactive, its not as simple as throwing your hat in the ring. Developing relationships may be the single most important aspect of getting to the top and staying there.

The skills you learn travel up the chain well as your domain experience and tenure grows, Nimeroff says. Honing your skills in interacting with subordinates, peers, and superiors to effectively communicate, properly set expectations, and successfully execute is a linchpin. Successful execution is what puts you on the path to achieving a leadership position.

Shake things up, says HPs Nigro, and look beyond the project youre working on to develop a wider view of the company, its customers, and your market.

Education in the absence of a well-understood goal is a waste of time. Traditional education cant teach you to be a great leader in isolation, but it can arm you with a set of tools to draw upon. -- JR Rivers, CTO, Cumulus Networks

Get out of the cube or the lab and talk with your customers to understand their needs and their perceptions of the industry landscape, Nigro says. The more you understand about your customers, competitors, technology trends, and the industry at large, the more effective you will be as you take on additional leadership responsibility.

Will you need an MBA?

More often than not the tech leads we asked emphasized that heading a company doesnt require grad school. Instead, on-the-job experience and building relationships were the most often-cited ways to prepare for running the whole show.

The most important thing is finding the right vehicle or the right company to gain that hands-on experience. -- David Chang, co-founder and senior vice president of solutions development, Actifio

Education in the absence of a well-understood goal is a waste of time, says JR Rivers, CTO of Cumulus Networks. Traditional education cant teach you to be a great leader in isolation, but it can arm you with a set of tools to draw upon.

And pursuing a degree for the sake of the degree can be a trap.

I know a lot of people that have MBAs on their resume and they end up in middle-management positions, but I also know a lot of great technical leaders that didnt even get close to an MBA, Rivers says. Learn the tools that will positively impact business outcomes -- however you need to learn them.

David Chang, co-founder and senior vice president of solutions development at Actifio, isnt a big fan of the MBA route either.

Take advantage of on-the-job training, know what is being offered by universities, user groups, associations, and partners in your industry and leverage a vast array of learning opportunities. -- Gina Murphy, COO, TriCore Solutions

I think in many ways people in this line of business possess the skill sets already in terms of the basic accounting and technology, and for things you dont know, youre able to figure out, Chang says. The most important thing is finding the right vehicle or the right company to gain that hands-on experience. For example, if you can work at a young startup where you are flying the plane and changing the engine at the same time, youll learn a lot from those firsthand challenges and work experiences as opposed to relying on theory.

Every individual is different, says Gina Murphy, COO of TriCore Solutions. Take advantage of on-the-job training, know what is being offered by universities, user groups, associations, and partners in your industry and leverage a vast array of learning opportunities. To reach the highest levels of management, leaders need to have experience with project plans and project management, the ability to prepare and manage budgets, to provide feedback to employees and interact with customers and prospects at all levels of the organization. Without a doubt you get exposure and experience on the job.

The technology industry re-creates itself every 18 months, so ongoing education is critical. -- Jeff Basso, director of SAP Fieldglass, SAP

And while an MBA might not be necessary, at least one of our experts highly recommends finishing your undergraduate work. From there, my best advice for those working in technology is to join user groups within your business industry, says Jeff Basso, director of SAP Fieldglass. Doing so will allow you stay up to date on trends, new strategies, and players in the field. The technology industry re-creates itself every 18 months, so ongoing education is critical.

Like Basso, Joan Wrabetz, CTO of Quali, says academic work will help teach you how to keep learning.

For me, my MBA was very helpful, Wrabetz says. The change in my way of thinking was pretty revolutionary. Engineers are taught to solve problems in a very particular way. This way of solving problems may not be the best way to approach business problems. Seeing the world from a nonengineering perspective was instrumental for me in learning how to be a manager and leader.
It isn't always easy to tell with the SSL system when a certificate authority should be trusted, but Google's Submariner attempts to bring webmasters and users the level of details that can answer the question.

On the Web, behind the scenes, certificate authorities issue credentials for domains and other Internet resources. There are rules in place to make sure the entity requesting the certificate is the legitimate owner, but cyber criminals have successfully obtained fraudulent certificates in the past. This complicates the mission for Googles Certificate Transparency project, which lets webmasters and users look at all certificates issued by a certificate authority -- but can't include certificates that are no longer trusted.

Submariner fills that gap by listing certificate authorities that were once trusted, but have been withdrawn from Google's root program, said Martin Smith, a software engineer with Googles Certificate Transparency team. Submariner also includes new certificate authorities that are in the pipeline but have not yet been added to the trusted list by Google's root.

The log will provide a public record of certificates that are not accepted by the existing Google-operated logs, Smith said. Initially, Submariner includes certificates chaining up to VeriSign G1 roots, which was discontinued by Symantec in early December. The log also includes roots that are pending inclusion in Mozilla.

Cryptographic keys and digital certificates provide the foundations of online trust and cyber security, which is why certificate reputation is important, said Kevin Bocek, vice president of security strategy and threat intelligence for Venafi. By design, certificates are natively trusted by servers and security applications, which helps cyber criminals and other adversaries trying to look like a legitimate entity. With Submariner, it's easier to tell which certificate authorities should not be trusted, so webmasters can avoid mistakenly issued certificates. For example, Dell's eDellroot debacle showed how simple it was to get an unknown root certificate authority to be trusted.

As we move to an increasingly connected IoT world, with new agile development methods, the number of certificates being issued is exploding. This is making the challenge of knowing what can and cant be trusted even more obscure and hackers are waiting to profit from the chaos, Bocek said.

The challenge of knowing whom to trust

For the most part, webmasters have to rely on companies like Google, Mozilla, Microsoft, and Apple to keep the list of trusted certificate authorities up-to-date so that operating systems and browsers know which to accept and which are suspect. Submariner doesn't change the balance of power, but it gives webmasters access to the information.

For example, there is ample evidence that China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC) -- the Chinese governments certificate authority -- has misused keys and certificates to conduct man-in-the-middle attacks against users and issued certificates letting adversaries intercept encrypted traffic, Bocek said. Only a year ago, CNNIC was accused of issuing fraudulent certificates for google.com, prompting Google and Mozilla to blacklist the certificate authority. Microsoft, to this day, considers CNNIC a trusted authority, despite past history. Apple initially did nothing, but later moved to limit trust to specific sites.

"When Apple did take action, it was only partial action as it blocked some CNNIC sites and not others," Bocek said. These companies are making decisions that impact our privacy and security based on self-interest, and that is a worrying situation."

These decisions and many others about the foundation of Internet security established by digital certificates are made without the knowledge or ability to change by the average user.

Avoid the bad certificates

Getting a valid HTTPS certificate used to be a cumbersome and time-consuming process, but Lets Encrypt and similar programs are making it easier for webmasters to request and receive free and automated certificates. However, in several recent instances, certificate authorities have mistakenly issued certificates when they shouldnt have been able to or have been compromised.

Last fall, Google discovered through its Certificate Transparency project that Symantec had issued an Extended Validation (EV) certificate for google.com without the companys knowledge. Though the certificates turned out to be for testing and never left Symantec, Google was concerned that Symantec had issued 164 test certificates for 76 domains it didnt own, and 2,458 certificates for domains that hadnt been registered. Then theres StarCom, the sixth-largest certificate authority in the world; it recently fixed a vulnerability in its domain validation process that could be abused by attackers to issue free StartSSL certificates for domains they do not own.
Cattle bulls are back in force Sidwell Strategies - Sat Oct 22, 7:12PM CDT Cattle-on-Feed; Rebound in Equities & Energy

Triple Digit Hog Rally Barchart - Fri Oct 21, 4:40PM CDT 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 - Fri Oct 21, 4:40PM CDT 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 - Fri Oct 21, 4:40PM CDT 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 - Fri Oct 21, 4:40PM CDT 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%)
Gifts for entrepreneurship on campus have been coming fast, a trend we've highlighted at IP in recent months. In one gift I wrote about, billionaire couple Robert and Janice McNair gave $8 million to establish the McNair Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy. That gift is part of national push by the couple to fund entrepreneurship on campus and the McNairs have funded similar outfits at the University of St. Thomas Houston and Northwood University in Midland, Michigan.

Related: A Donor Making a National Push to Fund Entrepreneurship on Campus

Last year, Rice University established Entrepreneurship@Rice, a concerted effort to transform the school into "the Entrepreneurial University," bringing together a collection of "curricular and co-curricular activities meant to prepare students for the process of entrepreneurship." The McNair couple's gift should be seen within this context. Other efforts like business incubator Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and OwlSpark, a student startup accelerator, are also part of this nascent work.

Recently, Rice University received a $16.5 million gift from alumnus Frank Liu and his family through their charitable foundation to launch the Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Lilie). Lilie will feature new and expanded entrepreneurship courses as well as project funds with the goal of encouraging Rice students to pursue and achieve success in entrepreneurial endeavors. Lilie "aims to provide students from across the university with entrepreneurial knowledge and problem-solving skills to succeed in a world where such capabilities are increasingly critical for meaningful and influential careers."

We've noted that a number of donors in this space have business backgrounds, and Liu is no exception. He graduated from Rice in 1978 with a bachelors in civil engineering and founded Lovett Homes, InTown Homes and Lovett Commercial, where he's developed residential, retail and commercial real estate in Houston for more than three decades.

One effort backed with these new funds, the Lilie Venture Challenge, aims to bring the the startup accelerator experience into the academic year; typically, this comprises a summer project. As well, the incoming Rice Class of 2020 can take advantage of the Lilie New Entrepreneurs Grant, given to matriculating freshmen to fund worthy early-stage business ideas. This reveals that schools like Rice aren't just looking at the implications of an entrepreneurial skillset down the line for graduates, but are also hoping to attract budding entrepreneurs to the school in the first place.

Related:
The country seeks to use G-20 presidency to advance its interests, but skeptics worry about the health of its economy and Beijing's commitment to reform.

Investors cant help but notice two kinds of news coming out of China these days. One tells a story of near-panic-driven stock market declines, a falling currency, high and rising debt levels, and a rapid slowdown in growth  all adding up to evidence of a so-called hard landing for the worlds second-largest economy. The other type of news portrays a confident, rising superpower that is setting up institutions to rival the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, a country whose companies are embarking on a record-breaking spree of offshore acquisitions while its wealthy elite drive up property prices from Manhattan to Mayfair.

China is increasingly presenting a bipolar persona to the world, confusing its trade partners and global investors, who cant seem to agree on which portrayal is more accurate. Complicating the matter is the fact that Chinese officials  who seemed poised and methodical when growth rates were high  appear much more fallible these days. Regulators abrupt interventions in the stock market last summer and sudden minidevaluation of the yuan frightened investors and stoked market volatility rather than providing reassurance. Officials rarely talk openly about the rationale behind their strategies, and when they do talk, they often give mixed signals, fueling doubts about both their ability to handle the nations difficult transition and their commitment to the reforms required to move China away from investment- and export-led growth toward greater reliance on domestic consumption and private sector development.

Concerns about China carry extra prominence this year, as it is Beijings turn to serve as president of the Group of 20 nations, for the first time. China overtook Japan to become the worlds second-largest economy in 2010 and now has a gross domestic product of $11.3 trillion, almost three times the size of its Asian neighbors. It has stood out with its leadership in the formation of new multilateral lenders  the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank  placing officials in Beijing in a unique position to challenge their counterparts in the U.S., Europe and Japan, who for decades collectively set the rules of global finance through the G-7, the World Bank and the IMF.

This is the first time that China has played such a key role in coordinating policy for the world economy, says Kenneth Courtis, a former vice chairman of Goldman Sachs Asia who now chairs his own investment firm, Starfort Investment Holdings. Notwithstanding talk of a Chinese hard landing, Courtis says the mainland remains a source of strength for the global economy. China generated nearly 40 percent of world growth in 2015 and is on course to do the same again this year, he contends. She is more than carrying her weight, he says. Remember, China is but 13 to 14 percent of world GDP.

Others are not so sanguine. Last month Moodys Investors Service lowered the outlook on its China sovereign debt rating of Aa3 to negative from stable, citing concerns about a weakening of the countrys fiscal and financial position. Moodys noted a rise in government debt to 40.6 percent of GDP at the end of 2015 and a huge decline of $762 billion in foreign exchange reserves last year. In addition, the rating agency said there was increasing uncertainty about the authorities capacity to implement reforms  given the scale of reform challenges  to address imbalances in the economy.

The debt concerns surrounding Chinese banks and nonfinancial companies are even greater. Corporate leverage has risen sharply because the authorities provided stimulus to the economy in the wake of the 200809 financial crisis through a big increase in bank lending. Although official figures say less than 1 percent of Chinese bank loans are nonperforming, a recent report by Katherine Lei, a banking analyst at J.P. Morgan in Hong Kong, said the real level of NPLs is about 7 percent if one includes loans through the shadow banking system, which includes credit extended via brokerages, wealth management products and other avenues.

After 2008, when Beijing launched a massive investment push, the global ruling elite all praised China for saving the global economy, says Andy Xie, an independent strategist in Shanghai who previously worked as Morgan Stanleys chief economist in Asia. Since 2008, China has increased overall credit  including bank lending, shadow banking credit and government borrowing  by more than $20 trillion, or 176 percent of GDP, to finance the construction of factories, apartment buildings, roads and railways, he says. But, Xie adds, investment does not guarantee final demand.

The rapid rise in credit produced a bubble in property prices and fueled an explosion of short-term loans through the credit cooperatives, trusts and other entities that make up the shadow banking sector. Analysts estimate this sector has $5 trillion in outstanding loans, equivalent to 44 percent of GDP, with much of the credit extended to local governmentlinked companies and invested in infrastructure projects that take years to mature. And analysts cant help but question how the Chinese government will be able to handle a crisis if large volumes of defaults occur.

The Chinese central government has allowed some local governments to sell municipal and provincial bonds in an effort to convert the short-term loans to longer-term debt instruments, but these efforts may not work fast enough to avert a sharp rise in NPLs. In a worst-case scenario, such bad debts could surge to 20 percent of GDP, says J.P. Morgans Lei. That estimate is far from our base case, she writes in her report, but if it happens, Chinas commercial banking system would need 5 trillion yuan of capital. The government, which still sits on more than $3 trillion of foreign exchange reserves, can afford to recapitalize its banks, Lei says, but that would just perpetuate the credit dependency that leaves the economy vulnerable.

The economy itself has a dual nature that gives rise to both optimism and pessimism, generating uncertainty about the real outlook, says Andy Rothman, a veteran China watcher and investment strategist at Matthews International Capital Management, a $23.7 billion, Asia-focused asset manager in San Francisco.

Manufacturing weakness has led to the development of a distinct rust belt in China, where industries related to construction and natural-resources extraction are concentrated, says Rothman, who went to China in 1983 as a U.S. Foreign Service officer, then worked as a Shanghai-based strategist with Credit Lyonnais Securities Asia for 14 years before joining Matthews International in 2014. The rust belt consists of five provinces where GDP growth was only 5 percent in 2015 and unemployment is nearly double the national average of 4 percent. By contrast, Chinas other 26 provinces, home to 84 percent of the population, grew at a rate of about 8 percent last year, Rothman estimates.

In the slow-growth provinces  Heilongjiang, Liaoning and Jilin in the industrial northeast and mining-dependent Shaanxi and Henan south and west of Beijing  thousands of state-owned enterprises employing millions of workers need to be restructured because of overcapacity or lack of competitiveness, says Rothman. But debt is concentrated among a relatively small number of state-owned companies, while the private companies that generate most of Chinas new jobs and investment have already deleveraged, he says.

Notwithstanding the severity of Chinas challenges, there are signs that government reform efforts are moving the economy away from its dependence on public sector investment and export-led growth. For the first time, services and private sector consumption accounted for more than half of the countrys GDP, or 51.4 percent, in 2015, up from 41.4 percent a decade ago. The strength of those sectors is mitigating weakness in manufacturing and construction, Rothman says. If this rebalancing continues, Chinas economic deceleration will be gradual, he contends.

Yet fresh stimulus measures are raising concerns among some analysts that policymakers are going soft on reform to maintain social stability.

Less than a week after China hosted the G-20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors in late February in Shanghai, Premier Li Keqiang announced a slew of initiatives aimed at supporting growth. They included cuts in bank reserve ratios and mortgage down-payment requirements, an expansion of value-added tax reductions to all industries and a $245 billion budget for infrastructure spending this year. Li also announced a $15 billion allocation to retrain several millions of workers who will be laid off as a result of the massive restructuring of state-owned companies.

The government is budgeting for a fiscal deficit of 3 percent of GDP this year  up from 2.3 percent in 2015 and the highest level since 1949  to ensure a reasonable range of growth, Li told delegates to the National Peoples Congress in Beijing on March 5. He also set a growth target of 6.5 to 7 percent for 2016, down from 7.5 percent in 2014 and 7 percent in 2015. It was the first time the government had adopted a range rather than a precise growth target.

Officials face a tough balancing act in trying to reduce excess capacity while maintaining social stability, and some analysts believe Lis measures fail to get the balance right. Although the government cant afford to move too quickly, it needs to eliminate excess capacity if it wants the economy to thrive in the long run, says Jianguang Shen, Mizuho Securities Hong Kongbased chief Asia economist. With more attention being placed on stabilizing the economy, structural reform may be delayed, he says. However, we believe that only through concrete structural reform can China boost productivity and make growth sustainable.

MANY OFFICIALS CAME TO THE G-20 meeting worried about Chinas health and the impact of its slowdown on their own economies. At a news conference in Hong Kong on his way to the G-20, French Finance Minister Michel Sapin said concern about Chinese growth was one of the main causes of global financial market instability.

At the meeting itself Chinese officials sought to reassure their partners that Beijing remains committed to economic reforms that will keep growth on track. They vowed not to engage in any competitive devaluation of the yuan. For their part, Western officials urged Beijing to continue economic and market reforms and to be more transparent in its actions; U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew hammered on that theme in a number of speeches and media statements at the G-20. We welcome Chinas efforts to transition to a more consumption-driven economy, including through fiscal policies that support household demand and actions that reduce excess industrial capacity, Lew told journalists at the summit. It is also critical that China continue to move toward a more market-determined exchange rate and transparent exchange rate policy in an orderly manner and clearly communicate its actions to the market.

Chinas currency, which weakened again in November and December, has stabilized lately at about 6.5 to the dollar. But many analysts believe the yuan needs to decline further to facilitate the countrys economic evolution.

The yuan should fall over time, says Paul Schulte, who heads his own, Hong Kongbased research firm, Schulte Research International. This is part of an economy in transition from an investment-led to a consumption-led engine. Korea had this in the 1990s. Japan had this in the 1980s. The U.S. had this in the 1960s. Europes turn was in the 1970s.

Chinese officials indicate that any yuan weakness will be gradual. The leadership is well aware that it cannot devalue its way out of the current economic slowdown, says a senior executive at the countrys sovereign wealth fund, China Investment Corp. (CIC), who advises the government on financial policy and spoke on condition of anonymity. China cannot afford a currency or a trade war, the executive says. Officials will let the currency gradually slide to no lower than seven yuan to the U.S. dollar in the coming few years and will hold steady there for some time to come.

Chinese officials are beginning to realize that, more than ever, their markets are interlinked with global financial markets and that they cannot escape addressing the worries of investors in faraway lands. At the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, an adviser to President Xi Jinping admitted that poor communication had contributed to global market anxiety over Chinas falling currency. Our system is not structured in a way to communicate seamlessly with the markets, Fang Xinghai, vice chairman of Chinas securities regulator and a member of a key Communist Party financial policy committee, told a Davos audience, seeking to reassure investors that Beijing was not pursuing competitive devaluation. He added, You bet we can learn.

The poor communication reflects the fact that the Communist Party leadership is still trying to find the right balance between giving in to market forces and controlling markets through administrative planning, says Laurence Brahm, a Beijing-based lawyer and entrepreneur who has advised the Chinese government on initiatives including the 2007 launch of CIC.

At the moment, the leadership is having a difficult time finding the middle ground. Consider the run-up to last summers stock market rout and the authorities response to it. Officials spoke favorably about the stock market in late 2014 and early 2015, leading many investors to believe the authorities were sanctioning a bull market. When prices fell by more than a third between June and August 2015, wiping some $5 trillion off Chinese equity values and triggering major sell-offs around the world, the authorities took a heavy hand, temporarily banning margin trading and selling by certain major shareholders and targeting people accused of short-selling or destabilizing the market.

The leadership encouraged a bull market in a short period of time and then took drastic action against market participants, punishing them for following through on the governments encouragement, Brahm says.

As part of the crackdown, the authorities arrested half a dozen executives of Chinas largest investment bank, CITIC Securities Co. They also arrested Xu Xiang, a billionaire and founder of hedge fund firm Zexi Investment Management, on charges of insider trading.

China liberalized many leveraged financial instruments, which opened the Pandoras box on speculation, Brahm says. In the end the tycoons saw what was coming and shorted the market. People lost money and were angry with the government. So it got back at the angry investors by arresting the tycoons and punters, and then propped up the market using clearly administrative rather than market mechanisms.

The policy confusion and mixed signals stem in part from the fact that President Xi has been muscling in on Premier Lis territory, sources say. Premiers have traditionally managed economic affairs while presidents focused on politics, foreign policy and defense. Xi, however, has seized control of all portfolios since taking over as head of the Communist Party in 2012. Technocrats like central bank governor Zhou Xiaochuan have made fewer public pronouncements under Xis leadership; Liu He, head of the General Office of the Leading Group for Financial and Economic Affairs of the Communist Partys Central Committee and a senior aide to Xi, is often quoted in Chinese media these days.

Andrew Collier, former president of Bank of China in the U.S., detects a rising level of bureaucratic infighting in China as officials disagree more than in the past about how to deal with the nations challenges.

As with most countries, there are different groups with different agendas controlling economic policy, says Collier, who is now founder and head of Orient Capital Research, a Hong Kongbased firm that advises hedge funds. The central bank and the Ministry of Finance were at odds on how to deal with the stock market crisis last summer.

The internal tensions led to the less sophisticated members of the political elite trying to do an end run around the technocrats, Collier says, noting that the government spent $300 billion fruitlessly trying to prop up the markets. They won the battle but lost the war when the markets fell sharply at the end of the summer.

Aside from the bureaucratic rivalries, officials have made some glaring policy missteps lately. The most notable occurred at the start of January, when regulators activated a so-called circuit breaker in a bid to steady the stock market. Although circuit breakers are common in the West, Chinas had two trigger points set too close together. If the market index dropped by 5 percent, trading would be halted for 15 minutes; if the decline reached 7 percent when the market reopened, authorities would shut it down for the day.

Instead of fostering market stability, the circuit breaker caused panic selling to erupt on January 4, the day the new system was introduced, forcing authorities to close the market for the day. After a two-day reprieve, selling triggered another market shutdown on January 7. Xiao Gang, head of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, who had championed the introduction of circuit breakers, was removed from office in February and replaced by Liu Shiyu, former chairman of Agricultural Bank of China.

China is still a mixed economy with the uneasy coexistence of market measures in conjunction with state fiats, says Willy Lam, a journalist, adjunct professor at Chinese University of Hong Kong and author of the recent book Chinese Politics in the Era of Xi Jinping: Renaissance, Reform, or Retrogression? Xi wants the party-state apparatus to remain in control of important sectors of the economy, he says. Hence Beijing will continue to allow state-owned conglomerates to control key areas, including oil and gas, banking, telecommunications and airlines.

Even as the government says it remains committed to market-oriented economic reforms, Xi is pushing the party back to its leftist roots with his efforts to concentrate power in his own hands. China experts say the president is backpedaling on much-needed political reforms and using strong-arm tactics to silence opponents within and outside the party. His anticorruption campaign has led to the arrest and jailing of tens of thousands of cadres, including more than two dozen officials of ministerial rank or higher.

China is once again gripped by fear, in a way it has not been since the era of Mao Zedong, says Minxin Pei, a professor of government at Californias Claremont McKenna College. From the inner sanctum of the Chinese Communist Party to university lecture halls and executive suites, the specter of harsh accusations and harsher punishment is stalking Chinas political, intellectual and business elites.

In the past 12 months, a roster of business tycoons and officials have been arrested or have disappeared for a time, without any official explanation. Chief among them: Guo Guangchang, the flamboyant chairman of Shanghai-based Fosun International, who is often referred to as Chinas Warren Buffett. Over the past five years, Guo and Fosun, Chinas largest private investment conglomerate, have spent more than $5 billion acquiring a range of offshore assets, including French resort operator Club Mediterranee and prime New York real estate.

Guo, who sources say retains ties to the previous Chinese leadership under president Jiang Zemin, disappeared for almost two weeks in December, causing investors to panic and Fosun shares to drop 9 percent. It was later revealed that he was assisting anticorruption officials who were investigating a former Shanghai vice mayor.

The Fosun executive finally reappeared in public at a well-publicized dinner in New York City. Guo has remained free since then and apparently is not being targeted for criminal charges, but the incident illustrates the lack of transparency of Chinas political system, under which politicians and business leaders can disappear with no official explanation and without due process.

There has been no progress in the past few years in respect to the rule of law, says Matthews Internationals Rothman. This is something I do expect to happen in the coming decades, and the Communist Party does understand they do need to establish the rule of law in order to remain in power, but the rule of law doesnt come overnight.

The prospect of a more powerful but also more volatile and unpredictable China poses a challenge to the countrys major trading partners. Many analysts expect Beijing to use its G-20 presidency to assert its influence and challenge the global status quo.

Compared to the hosts of previous years, Beijing will use its G-20 presidency to project both hard and soft power, says author Lam. Xi wants China to play a greater role on the global stage, particularly in reshaping the international financial order. He also wants to use the G-20 to position the yuan as a major global currency following its inclusion in December in the Special Drawing Right, the currency basket of the International Monetary Fund, Lam adds.

More broadly, China will use its G-20 presidency to advance its ultimate objective of establishing a new financial architecture that will rival Bretton Woods institutions like the IMF and the World Bank, analysts say. This includes the recently launched Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), a Beijing-led institution that has attracted more than 50 countries as members, and the New Development Bank, an initiative with Chinas partner BRICS countries: Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa.

The U.K. government gave a big boost to Chinas ambitions last year when it agreed to join the AIIB, much to the chagrin of the Obama administration. Londons decision prompted several European governments to follow suit.

Mark Boleat, chairman of the policy and resources committee of the City of London Corporation, says many European politicians are more comfortable with Chinas rising global power than their American counterparts are.

The G-20 presidency is a part of the natural process of China becoming an import-driven economic power, Boleat says. There is goodwill for China as a leading player, but one has to keep in mind that it will take time for China to become effective in these global institutions.

Another priority for the Chinese president is the one belt, one road initiative, which aims to develop road, rail and sea transportation infrastructure linking China with markets in Southeast Asia, Central Asia and Europe, says adviser Brahm. So as president of the G-20, Xi will aim to take on the global financial system and try to adjust many of the coordinates in line with this now-two parallel track that is emerging  a North-North cooperation and a South-South cooperation, with some little overlap in between, he explains.

Some analysts worry that an emboldened Beijing may take risks that threaten regional or global stability.

China is beginning to involve itself more in global issues, but instead of becoming a responsible stakeholder in the liberal international order, it seems to have chosen to focus on creating parallel governance structures, which it can shape according to its own preferences, says Wolfgang Ischinger, a veteran German diplomat who chairs the Munich Security Conference, an annual gathering of security and defense officials that was held in mid-February. And its increasing assertiveness, most visibly in the East and South China Seas, continues to worry its smaller neighbors, who wish for a stronger U.S. role in the region.

In Beijing, however, analysts believe Xis agenda is marked more by cooperation than by confrontation. The G-20 presidency can help China to promote its multilateral efforts, says Hong Liang, chief economist and head of research at China International Capital Corp., a Beijing-based investment bank. In particular, China may stress that these new institutions will only play a role in complementing, rather than challenging, the existing development agencies. This way China can enhance the acceptance of these initiatives by G-20 countries.

Guan Anping, a Beijing-based securities lawyer and adviser to the government on financial reform policies, says the U.S. and its European and Japanese allies need not see Chinas ambitions as a threat. China will not try to force its political model down the throats of recipient nations in emerging markets as a condition for financing, he says, adding that Beijing seeks influence through trade and commerce and is not ideological at all in its approach to the geopolitics of finance.

China still has a lot to learn from the U.S., Europe and Japan, Guan says. All we seek is respect, he explains, adding that China launched its development banks because the U.S. blocked its efforts to gain a greater say in the running of the IMF and the World Bank. In December the U.S. Congress finally approved IMF quota reforms giving China and other emerging-markets nations a greater role in the institution, five years after they were first proposed.

For skeptics and critics of Chinas economic and political power, Guan has a simple message. Yes, we are slowing down and will continue to slow down, and yes, we have huge reform challenges that will take many years to resolve, he says, but our growth also will continue for perhaps decades, and that is because we are committed to tackling the challenges  we are not hiding our heads in the sand. Whether the U.S., Europe or Japan likes it or not, China will be a significant player for many years to come. 

Follow Allen Cheng on Twitter at @acheng87.
As the last week of the quarter gets underway, the mood among investors in the U.S. remains cautious among investors as a rally off the lows of February for large-cap equities has yet to translate to seasonally normal trading volumes. According to analysis by the quantitative-research group at Jefferies, global mutual fund and exchange-traded fund investors stayed on the sidelines during the week ending on March 23 after three prior weeks of net-buying with a net outflow of $1.3 billion. Unsurprisingly, given recent dovish signals by Federal Reserve policymakers, U.S. money markets were the biggest loser over the period, with net outflows of more than $20 billion.

NTT to acquire Dell Systems. In a deal valued at more than $3 billion, Japans Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. today announced that it had entered into an agreement to purchase Round Rock, Texas-based Dells business services division. The move provides NTT with a greater presence in enterprise markets in the U.S. and other non-Japanese markets while allowing Dell to streamline operations as it merges with Hopkinton, Massachusetts-based storage giant EMC Corp. Dell Systems traces its roots in part to Perot Services, a firm acquired by the computer maker in 2009.

Avon buries hatchet with activists  for now. New Yorkbased cosmetics company Avon Products today announced that it has reached an agreement with shareholder Barington Capital Group that provides the activist investor with approval over the appointment of an independent board member at the cosmetics company. Although Barington will have a voice in the selection process, executives at Avon and its largest shareholder Cerberus Capital will initially vet candidates under the agreement. Barington was a leading voice among investors seeking to restructure Avons core business in recent quarters.

Profit rebound for Chinas industrial operators. Yesterday Chinas National Bureau of Statistics released data for the first two months of the year indicating that profits rebounded in the industrial sector, with an estimated aggregate $120 billion represented a nearly 5 percent gain over the same period in 2015. The improvement ends a period of seven consecutive contractions on a year-over-year basis. Refiners and food producers were among the subsectors that saw significant margin improvements. NBS analysts warn that returns for factory operators in China remain depressed.

U.S. activist targets Japanese nepotism. On Sunday, a letter was issued by Daniel Loeb, the founder of activist shareholder hedge fund firm Third Point Management, in which he raised concerns over the possibility that Japanese retail company Seven & I Holdings would elevate the son of the current CEO as a successor. Third Point has made a string of investment in Japanese equities in recent years. In his letter, Loeb argued that the next leader for the company should be selected purely on merit and identified the current president of Seven-Eleven Japan, the primary business unit of Seven & i, as a qualified candidate.
The ride-hailing service Uber is now operating in Montpelier, Vermont.

The San Francisco-based company says riders requesting a car in Montpelier can be dropped off at points outside the city, including in Barre, Hyde Park, Waitsfield and Charlotte.

Mayor John Hollar says hes concerned that Uber could have a negative impact on existing taxi companies.

City Clerk John Odum tells Vermont Public Radio that the city will have to change its taxi ordinance, as Ubers business model doesnt fit into its licensing regulations.

Odum says hell talk with other cities about their experiences with Uber.

An Uber spokeswoman declined to speculate on how the company would respond if it was found to be in violation of city ordinances.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Vermont
The property/casualty insurance data and rating organization ISO will collect and help analyze terrorism data this year for the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the federal agency charged with gauging the effectiveness of the federal terrorism risk insurance program.

ISO, a unit of Verisk Analytics, said it will collect premium, exposure, and policy data for 2015 from insurers participating in the program. The program, initially established in 2002 by the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA), requires insurers to make available terrorism risk insurance with respect to commercial property/casualty losses and provides a mechanism for the federal government to share the risk of loss from terrorist attacks.

A spokesperson for ISO said the arrangement on terrorism data is an extension of an existing long-term contract in which ISO, a sub-contractor, is the data aggregator in the event of an insured loss event.

ISO is in the data collection business and maintains one of the worlds largest insurance databases. According to Beth Fitzgerald, president of ISO Solutions, ISO receives data from insurers containing more than 2.8 billion records of property/casualty insurance premiums and losses each year. ISO also provides insurers with tools to help them address terrorism exposures and changes in federal legislation.

Were honored to collect, report, and manage data about terrorism insurance on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, said Fitzgerald. Its a testament to the knowledge and dedication of our staff and to the confidence that regulators have in using the data we collect because of our strong focus on quality.

For this first collection of information under Section 111 of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2015, the Treasury Department is requesting, but not requiring, that insurers submit data. The deadline for insurers to report data this year is April 30.

Reporting insurers can register at https://www.tripsection111data.com/.

Terrorism Data

The Institute for Economics and Peace has been collecting economic data on terrorist attacks since 1997. In 2014, acts of terror cost the world $52.9 billion, according to a November, 2015 report by the international group, which calculates the value of property damage and the cost of death and injury, including medical care costs and lost earnings. It doesnt take into account the increased number of security guards, higher insurance premiums, or city gridlock in the aftermath of an assault.

IEP also estimates the global national security expenditure to be approximately $117 billion.

In 2007, researchers at the University of Maryland launched a searchable global terrorism database was developed by START, the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism based at the University of Maryland, with funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Related:

Topics Carriers Catastrophe Natural Disasters USA Property Casualty Data Driven
ACEs $28.3 billion purchase of Chubb will create a major disruption in the luxury insurance market. When the integration of the two insurers is complete, the new company is anticipated to control approximately $6 billion of annual premiums on personal insurance, of which $4.6 billion will represent the high net worth segment, according to The Wall Street Journal.

The merger will also decrease the total number of major insurers focused on the high net worth segment, with industry estimates ranging from just three major players now in the space to upwards of six.

While this has prompted some commentators to sound warning bells about a possible oligopoly forming in the space, the current consolidation thats unfolding in the high net worth insurance market could actually be the great opportunity for other firms that have been angling on this space for some time.

The high net worth client segment has been and will continue to be a strongly pursued segment for all financial institutions. The unique needs of this group for financial products and services combined with their ability to pay for them makes the group attractive for financial institutions and professionals, with appropriately specialized offerings, to serve.

In the North American insurance industry, where the number high net worth individuals is highest, competition for the business of these individuals has been fierce over the years.

But will other insurers see an opportunity to capture more market share by luring away clients not happy with the combined company? This is a critical issue now that the industry appears to be in another soft market with prices, and therefore margins, down on most lines of business. The high net worth segment has, for most companies serving it, been a high margin and reliable book of quality business in difficult times.

No doubt several of the traditional competitors, and possibly some new entrants into this segment, will seek to gain market share in 2016 and beyond. The most difficult issue facing these companies is knowing how to win over customers in this segment. Their needs are different from those of most individual insureds and their expectations for service are high. Investing time and capital in the wrong products, services and supporting infrastructure could be devastating for a carrier, especially in a soft market. Having a deeper understanding of the drivers of customer satisfaction for the high net worth segment and how this market differs from the market generally is key to making the right investment in this business.

Developing such an understanding means more than just asking high net worth customers what they want and need and what they dont want or need, because many times the customers do not know. Understanding their needs requires knowing how to analyze the responses to the right questions to identify what are the true drivers, not merely stated drivers of customer satisfaction. Beyond that, each insurer interested in this segment must be able to align the identified drives of high net worth customer satisfaction with product and service features best suited to address them. This implies understanding the cost/benefit trade-off related to customer satisfaction so that a carrier does not over-invest in customer satisfaction efforts that destroy margin.

Commercial Insurance Potential

Because the opportunity of capturing high net worth individual clients also includes the potential of capturing commercial insurance business with which these individual clients are associated, impressing high net worth clients can pay off in premium many times as great as their individual premium. Most of them will need something beyond only their individual experience with a carrier to get them to recommend one to their companys risk manager. Once this hurdle is overcome, the rewards for the insurer multiply.

This is why competition for this customer segment is so fierce. It is also why the merger of ACE and Chubb should be sparking more competition for this segment. No one can be sure if the merged ACE/Chubb entity will be able to retain the leadership position Chubb had with high net-worth Insureds and any prospect of capturing more share of this segment will generate efforts to do so.

It has never been an easy challenge for insurers to provide products and services for specialty segments, but those who are successful at it reap great rewards for the effort. Understanding the needs and preferences that drive the insurance buying behaviors of the high net worth segment is not part of the expertise of most carriers, yet it is critical to their success in this market. Merely understanding the unique technical risk aspects of the insurance needs of this segment is not enough to stand out in it.

Matching a clear knowledge of customer satisfaction specific to this group with reliable and understandable measures of insurer operational performance is the best way for a company competing for this segment to capture market share within it and the likely follow-on commercial insurance business it brings with it.

About the author: Gregory Hoeg is vice president, Insurance Operations at J.D. Power

Related:

Topics Carriers Tech Market Chubb
As workers compensation fraud costs top out at an estimated $7.2 billion a year, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, insurers are looking at ways to combat the crime.

There are several warning signs that a workers compensation claim may be fraudulent. These include Monday morning reports of an injury that happened the previous week, conflicting descriptions of how the injury occurred, no witnesses and a history of claims, according to a report on the subject from Employers, an insurer specializing in small businesses.

Brad Balentine, SIU director at David Morse & Associates, said that using surveillance and social media are two ways to verify suspicious claims. Though using surveillance in claims handling can be an expensive, it is still an invaluable tool. Hours spent waiting for a claimant to be spotted can increase costs, but a thorough investigation completed prior to surveillance can cut costs and result in success, he said.

Youre waiting, but what you want to do is proactively do your research as much as possible to make sure that your chances of getting something from the expenses are the best that they can be, Balentine said.

Photos and More

Social media can aid in an investigation by offering a photo of the injured person so the subject can be correctly identified prior to surveillance. In addition, investigators can use social media sites to documents activities in which the injured may be involved. If there is a question as to the residence of an individual, social media may reveal a photo taken in front of a house. Through online research, the address can be determined and verified.

According to a 2011 presentation at the International Association of Special Investigation Units (IASIU) on the effective and ethical use of social media content in insurance investigations, social media can be an effective means to discover information during an investigation.

Facebook Profile

Roy Mura, an attorney with New York-based Mura & Storm, said that a completed Facebook profile can contain up to 40 pieces of personal information. In his presentation, he noted that insurance investigations are aided by social media in the following ways:

confirming policy application information;

confirming facts of loss;

confirming alibi;

verifying disability status;

locating witnesses.

Photos found on social media sites may include metadata that can offer details on a persons location when the photo was taken.

State insurance departments actively use surveillance and social media in their fraud investigations.

For 2013-2014, Californias workers compensation fraud division identified 5,729 suspected fraud cases, made 255 arrests and referred 248 cases for prosecution during the 2013-2014 fiscal year. Potential losses that year alone amounted to $242,669,008.

Dancing Hamster

The Kia Dancing Hamster fraud case was one California case that received wide media attention. Leroy Barnes, one of the dancing hamsters in a series of Kia commercials, was arrested on insurance fraud charges. Barnes allegedly lied to doctors about his employment status while receiving disability benefits. Besides working on the auto manufacturers commercials, Barnes performed in a rap group under an alias, recorded a song and worked as a backup dancer for Madonna, Kelly Rowland and Chris Brown under the name Hypnosis. He entered a no contest plea to the charges and was sentenced to 90 days of electronic monitoring, 400 hours of community service and was required to pay $24,000 in restitution.

Ohio workers compensation fraud investigators last year used surveillance footage to show a Massillon man trimming trees and repairing cars all while collecting disability. Adelbert Tyman pleaded guilty and was sentenced on one count of fraud, a first-degree misdemeanor.

The Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) received an allegation that Tyman was working for a tree service company and getting paid under the table.

Investigators obtained surveillance footage of Tyman cutting down trees and hauling logs for a tree service company, repairing cars and moving a large dumpster at an auto repair shop. Interviews confirmed that he was paid for the work. Tyman worked while receiving temporary total disability benefits for a prior workplace injury.

Tyman was sentenced to three years of probation and was ordered to pay $6,703.21 in restitution to BWC. If he violates the terms of his probation, he may be sentenced to serve up to six months in the county jail.

Also in 2014, an Ohio woman was charged with one misdemeanor count of falsification for filing a false claim, after she filed a claim with the BWC indicating that she fell at work, although she posted on a social media site that she fell at a gas station.

An investigation revealed that Kayla Fortman reported to her employer and treating physician that she fell in a company parking lot, when she actually fell while getting out of her vehicle at a gas station across the street. Fortman was sentenced to 180 day suspended jail sentence and two years probation. In addition, she was ordered to pay $200 in court costs and to make restitution to BWC in the amount of $1,908.76.

Johnson is editor of ClaimsJournal.com, where this article was originally published.

Topics Workers' Compensation Fraud Talent Ohio
An Oklahoma City man is facing felony charges for scamming a Moore couple out of $3,577.53. The money was part of the insurance settlement the couple received after their home was damaged in the March 25, 2015 tornado.

We will not tolerate scam artists going after storm victims, said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. Its extremely difficult to put your life back together after a traumatic event. For someone to take advantage of people in a vulnerable situation is extremely disturbing.

An investigation by the Oklahoma Insurance Departments (OID) Anti-Fraud Unit found that Antario Brown, 36, led the victims to believe he was a public adjuster and that his services were required to process their insurance claim. Not only is a public adjuster not required to process a claim, but Brown has never been a licensed public adjuster.

The victims, both 78 at the time, signed a contract with Brown allowing him to negotiate with the insurance company on their behalf in exchange for 7 percent of the final insurance settlement. Brown then contacted a licensed public adjuster to perform the service. The legitimate adjuster charged the client an additional 10 percent fee. She later contacted OID after learning the victims also paid Brown. When OID investigators spoke to Brown he claimed he was paid as a consultant.

The Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office charged Brown with one count of obtaining by false pretense.

I know Attorney General Scott Pruitt takes these crimes as seriously as I do and I appreciate his hard work on this case, said Doak.

If convicted, Brown faces up to 10 years in prison.

Source: Oklahoma Insurance Department

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Windstorm Oklahoma
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is urging Louisiana residents whose homes were damaged during recent floods not to wait for a FEMA inspector before beginning to clean up and conduct repairs.

FEMA spokeswoman Deanna Frazier said in a news release that those with flooded property should take photographs of any damage and keep receipts for any repair work done. Frazier says insurance companies may require both, and FEMA may require receipts.

She says FEMA inspectors can verify damages after repairs have begun.

Frazier says waiting can have adverse effects such as allowing mold to grow, which can lead to health problems.

Flood victims are encouraged to register with FEMA as quickly as possible.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Louisiana Flood
The United States government and the state of Tennessee have sued a Lenoir City chiropractor and a Manchester doctor, accusing them both of fraud and operating pill mills.

Officials with the U.S. Attorneys office in Nashville say the men are accused of defrauding Medicare and TennCare of over $1 million.

The suit names Matthew Anderson, a Lenoir City chiropractor, and David Florence, a doctor of osteopathy, from Manchester. Current telephone listings for both men were not publicly available.

Officials say Anderson operated four pain clinics, and at least one was a pill mill. Court documents say he reaped over $5 million from the clinics. They also say Dr. Florence was running an illegal prescription drug racket out of the Center for Advanced Medicine in Manchester.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Tennessee
A Washington man is suing a California company, claiming its medical device used to treat aneurysms malfunctioned and caused him to suffer brain damage.

The Penumbra Coil 400 was used to treat an aneurysm Dennis Montgomery suffered in 2013, according to his lawyer, Peter Mullenix. He said during the surgery at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, the doctor placed 90 percent of the coil into the aneurysm, but the last 10 percent got stuck in the intracranial artery

If the device had worked properly, the doctor should have been able to remove the coil and try a different approach, Mullenix said. Instead, the coil detached prematurely, he said. The coil and a stents used during the procedure remain in Montgomerys brain and caused him to suffer a stroke, he said.

When a coil system malfunctions and leaves the coil in the middle of the artery instead of safely inside the aneurysm, the coil starts throwing clots, which can turn into strokes, Mullenix said. Thats what happened to Dennis.

Mullenix filed the lawsuit against Penumbra, two company representatives who attended the surgery and Overlake Hospital Medical Center in King County Superior Court, claiming he was injured catastrophically and seeking medical and economic costs as well as damages. The suit claims the hospital failed its duty to furnish and select patient supplies and equipment free of defects.

His ability to work has really suffered and hes in pain a lot of the time, Mullenix said.

The Alameda, California-based company responded to the lawsuit last week by filing a motion to dismiss. Betsy Merryman, with the companys public relations firm, told The Associated Press they do not comment on lawsuits. Messages seeking comment from the companys lawyer and Overlake hospital were not immediately returned.

According to the lawsuit, the Food and Drug Administration initiated a Class I recall of about 267 lots of Penumbra Coil 400 products in 2011. The FDA said the reason for the recall was that it found that the pull wire on the delivery tool could slip out of place and allow premature detachment of the Coil 400, according to the lawsuit. This can lead to serious injury, stroke and death.

Penumbra secured an FDA clearance to market the coil in 2012. The device used on Montgomery was manufactured on Aug. 11, 2011 and had an expiration date of Aug. 31, 2013, the suit said.

Mullenix said they are trying to determine whether the device was one of the recalled coils, or if the new ones have the same problem.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Claims Washington
Noi siamo fiduciosi del fatto che la Clinton comprenda il ruolo degli Stati Uniti nel mondo, non abbiamo dubbi che lei affrontera in modo assiduo i problemi che il nostro Paese deve affrontare, e lei ha dimostrato la sua disposizione allanalisi ed al duro impegno. E un estratto delleditoriale con cui il magazine The Atlantic ha palesato il suo appoggio alla candidata democratica alle elezioni presidenziali, Hillary Clinton.

Il magazine ha deciso di dare il suo endorsment alla Clinton definendola uno dei candidati piu preparati di sempre e, inoltre, ha bollato Donald Trump come demagogo, xenofobo, sessista, uno che non sa niente ed e un bugiardo, specificandolo che lo considera il candidato piu dichiaratamente non qualificato nei 227 anni della storia della presidenza americana e che sarebbe una minaccia esistenziale per la Repubblica.

Fondata nel 1857, la prestigiosa e storica rivista solo in altre due occasioni si era apertamente schierata a favore di un candidato alla Casa Bianca: nel 1860 con Abraham Lincoln e nel 1964 con Lyndon B. Johnson. A sottolineare limportanza e leccezionalita della decisione e il direttore di The Atlantic, Scott Stossel, che paragona la scelta di sostenere la Clinton a quella fatta nel 1964 a favore di Johnson che si scontrava con il repubblicano Barry Goldwater.
Large companies flush with cash have been repurchasing stock shares to boost share prices and provide shareholder value over the last few decades. Some investors view repurchases as a bad practice, while others view it as good for both the company and investors.

But which is it? As it turns out, stock buybacks have advantages and disadvantages for stock issuers and investors.

Key Takeaways Although they can provide benefits, stock buybacks have been called into question in recent years.

There's been a significant rise in buybacks since 2000, with some companies looking to take advantage of undervalued stocks while others do it to boost their stock price artificially.

Buybacks can help increase the value of stock options, which are part of many executives' compensation packages.

Buyback programs can be easier to implement than dividend programs.

Why Do a Stock Buyback?

For corporations with extra cash, there are essentially four choices to make:

The firm can make capital expenditures or invest in other ways into their existing business. They can pay cash dividends to the shareholders. They can acquire another company or business unit. They can use the money to repurchase their sharesa stock buyback.

Like a dividend, a stock buyback is a way to return capital to shareholders. A dividend is effectively a cash bonus amounting to a percentage of a shareholder's total stock value; however, a stock buyback requires the shareholder to surrender stock to the company to receive cash. Those shares are pulled out of circulation and taken off the market until they are reissued or dissolved.

Stock Buyback History

Before 1980, buybacks weren't all that common. However, they have become far more frequent recently. By 2019, U.S. businesses bought back $800 billion in shares ($600 billion after accounting for net equity).

As observed in the following graph from Yardeni Research, before 2004, there weren't many S&P 500 companies buying back stocks. Then, leading up to the Great Financial Crisis, buybacks skyrocketed to about $700 billion and crashed back to $100 billion in 2009. Buybacks then steadily rose again after recovering from the pandemic in 2020, reaching nearly $1.15 trillion in the first quarter of 2022.

Yardeni Research, Inc.

Share Buyback Advantages

The theory behind share buybacks is that they reduce the number of shares available in the market andall else equalincrease earnings per share (EPS) on the remaining shares, benefiting shareholders. For companies flush with cash, the prospect of bumping up EPS can be tempting.

In addition, companies that buy back their shares often believe:

The stock is undervalued and a good buy at the current market price : Billionaire investor Warren Buffett utilizes stock buybacks when he feels that shares of his own company, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B), are trading at too low a level. However, Berkshire's directors have emphasized that they will only authorize repurchases at a price they believe to be well below intrinsic value.

: Billionaire investor Warren Buffett utilizes stock buybacks when he feels that shares of his own company, Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.A, BRK.B), are trading at too low a level. However, Berkshire's directors have emphasized that they will only authorize repurchases at a price they believe to be well below intrinsic value. A buyback will create a level of support : During a recessionary period or market correction, buybacks are thought to create lower price levels that cannot be broken through.

: During a recessionary period or market correction, buybacks are thought to create lower price levels that cannot be broken through. A buyback will increase share prices : Stocks trade in part based on supply and demand, and a reduction in the number of outstanding shares often precipitates a price increase. Therefore, a company can increase its stock value by creating a supply shock via a share repurchase.

: Stocks trade in part based on supply and demand, and a reduction in the number of outstanding shares often precipitates a price increase. Therefore, a company can increase its stock value by creating a supply shock via a share repurchase. Buybacks increase the demand for a companys shares: As a result, open-market buybacks automatically lift its stock price, even if only temporarily, and can enable the company to hit quarterly earnings per share (EPS) targets. All that said, buybacks can be done for legitimate and constructive reasons.

Buybacks can also be a way for a company to protect itself from a hostile takeover or signal that it plans to go private.

Stock Buyback Disadvantages

For years, it was thought that stock buybacks were entirely positive for shareholders. However, there are some downsides to buybacks. One of the most important metrics for judging a company's financial position is its EPS. EPS divides a company's total earnings by the number of outstanding shares; a higher number indicates a stronger financial position.

By repurchasing its stock, a company decreases the number of outstanding shares. A stock buyback thus enables a company to increase this metric without actually increasing its earnings or doing anything to support the idea that it is becoming financially stronger.

Starting in 2023, public company stock buybacks will be subject to a 1% excise tax, purportedly decreasing their attractiveness to businesses.

As an illustration, consider a company with yearly earnings of $10 million and 500,000 outstanding shares. This company's EPS, then, is $20. If it repurchases 100,000 of its outstanding shares, its EPS immediately increases to $25, even though its earnings have not budged. Investors who use EPS to gauge financial position may view this company as stronger than a similar firm with an EPS of $20 when in reality, the use of the buyback tactic accounts for the $5 difference.

Criticism of Stock Buybacks

The key reasons buybacks are controversial are:

Artificial financial results : The impact on earnings per share can give an artificial lift to the stock and mask financial problems revealed by a closer look at the companys ratios.

: The impact on earnings per share can give an artificial lift to the stock and mask financial problems revealed by a closer look at the companys ratios. Abuse : Companies can use buybacks as a way to allow executives to take advantage of stock option programs while not diluting EPS. However, there isn't much evidence supporting the widespread belief that this happens.

: Companies can use buybacks as a way to allow executives to take advantage of stock option programs while not diluting EPS. However, there isn't much evidence supporting the widespread belief that this happens. Price bumps: Buybacks can create a short-term bump in the stock price that some say allows insiders to profit while suckering other investors. This price increase may look good at first, but the positive effect is usually temporary, with equilibrium regaining when the market realizes that the company has done nothing to increase its actual value. Those who buy in after the bump can then lose money.

Some economists and investors argue that using excess cash to buy up stocks in the open market is the opposite of what companies should be doing, which is reinvesting to facilitate growth (as well as job creation and capacity).

Buybacks vs. Dividends

As mentioned earlier, buybacks and dividends can be ways to distribute excess cash and compensate shareholders. Given a choice, many investors choose a dividend over higher-value stock; some rely on the regular payouts that dividends provide.

Therefore, companies might be wary of establishing a dividend program. Once shareholders get used to the payouts, it is difficult to discontinue or reduce themeven when that's probably the best thing to do. That said, the majority of profitable companies do pay dividends.

Buybacks benefit all shareholders to the extent that, when stock is repurchased, shareholders get market value plus a premium from the company. And if the stock price rises before the repurchase, those that sell their shares in the open market will see a tangible benefit.

Who Benefits From a Stock Buyback? Companies benefit from a stock buyback because it can preserve stock prices, consolidate ownership, and take the place of dividends. Investors can benefit because they receive their capital back; however, a repurchase doesn't always benefit investors.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Buyback of Shares? Starting in 2023, public companies will be required to pay an excise tax of 1% on buybacks. Stock repurchases can also falsely boost earnings per share without a corresponding earnings boost.

What Happens to Stock Price After a Buyback? A stock buyback generally initiates a surge in price because there will be fewer available. Some investors might also help push the price up by purchasing stocks before the buyback, hoping to make a profit on the sale.

Why Would a Company Buyback Shares? Companies generally buy back shares to consolidate ownership, increase their share price on the market, increase demand for their stock, or serve as a support level for stock prices if the market takes a downward turn.

The Bottom Line

Share repurchase programs have always had their advantages and disadvantages. But as their frequency has increased in recent years, the actual value of stock buybacks has come into question. Some corporate finance analysts feel that companies use them as a disingenuous method to inflate specific financial ratios, such as EPS, under the auspices of providing a benefit to shareholders. Stock buybacks also enable companies to put upward pressure on share prices by affecting a sudden decrease in supply.

Investors shouldn't judge a stock based solely on the company's buyback program, though it is worth looking at when you're considering investing. A company that repurchases its shares too aggressively might be reckless in other areas. In contrast, a company that repurchases shares only under the most stringent circumstances (unreasonably low share price, stock not very closely held) is likelier to have its shareholders best interests at heart.

You should also remember to focus on the stalwarts of steady growth, price as a reasonable multiple of earnings, and adaptability. That way, you'll have a better chance of participating in value creation vs. value extraction.
On August 11, 2015, the Peoples Bank of China (PBOC) surprised markets with three consecutive devaluations of the Chinese yuan renminbi (CNY), knocking over 3% off its value. Since 2005, China's currency had appreciated 33% against the U.S. dollar.

The first devaluation marked the most significant single drop in 20 years. The move was unexpected, and many believed it was a desperate attempt by China to boost exports in support of an economy that was growing at its slowest rate in decades. However, the PBOC claimed that the devaluation was part of its reforms to move toward a more market-oriented economy. The move had substantial repercussions worldwide.

Key Takeaways After a decade of steady appreciation against the U.S. dollar, investors had become accustomed to the yuan's stability and growing strength.

Chinas President Xi Jinping had pledged the governments commitment to reform Chinas economy in a more market-oriented direction since he first took office in March 2013.

Despite the IMF response, many doubted Chinas commitment to free-market values, arguing that the new exchange rate policy was still akin to a managed float.

The negative impact of currency devaluations on relations with the U.S. also contributed to China briefly being labeled as a currency manipulator in 2019 and early 2020.

Surprised Markets

After a decade of steady appreciation against the U.S. dollar, investors had become accustomed to the yuan's stability and growing strength. The drop, which amounted to 4% over the subsequent two days, was small by stock market standards. However, many speculators in foreign exchange (forex) markets use a high amount of leverage.

Automatic stop-loss orders are one of the best ways for leveraged forex traders to protect themselves from sudden policy changes.

Stock markets in the U.S., Europe, and Latin America also fell in response to the yuan devaluation. Most currencies also reeled. Some argued that the move signaled an attempt to make exports look more attractive, even as the Chinese economy's expansion slowed. However, the PBOC indicated that other factors motivated the devaluation.

Effect on the IMF

Chinese President Xi Jinping had pledged the governments commitment to reform Chinas economy in a more market-oriented direction when he first took office in March 2013. That made the POBC's claim that the devaluation's purpose was to allow the market to be more instrumental in determining the yuan's value more believable.

The devaluation announcement came with official statements from the PBOC that as a result of this "one-off depreciation," the "yuan's central parity rate will align more closely with the previous day's closing spot rates." Furthermore, it was aimed at giving markets a greater role in determining the renminbi exchange rate with the goal of enabling deeper currency reform."

At the time, Professor Eswar Prasad of Cornell University indicated that the move was also consistent with Chinas slow but steady market-oriented reforms. The currency devaluation was one of many monetary policy tools the PBOC employed in 2015, which included interest rate cuts and tighter financial market regulation.

There was also another motive for China's decision to devalue the yuanChina's determination to be included in the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) special drawing rights (SDR) basket of reserve currencies. The SDR is an international reserve asset that IMF members can use to purchase domestic currency in foreign exchange markets to maintain exchange rates. The IMF reevaluates the currency composition of its SDR basket every five years. In 2010, the yuan was rejected on the basis that it was not freely usable. The IMF welcomed the devaluation, encouraged by the claim that it was done in the name of market-oriented reforms. Consequently, the yuan became part of the SDR in 2016.

Within the basket, the Chinese renminbi had a weight of 10.92%, which is more than the weights of the Japanese yen (JPY) and U.K. pound sterling (GBP), at 8.33% and 8.09%, respectively. The rate of borrowing funds from the IMF depends on the interest rate of the SDR. As currency rates and interest rates are interlinked, the cost of borrowing from the IMF for its member nations would now hinge in part on China's interest and currency rates.

Skeptical Views

Despite the IMFs response, many doubted Chinas commitment to free-market values, arguing that the new exchange rate policy was still akin to a managed float. Some charged that the devaluation was just another intervention, and the yuans value would continue to be closely monitored and managed by the PBOC.

Also, the devaluation occurred just days after data showed a sharp fall in Chinas exportsdown 8.3% in July 2015 from the previous year. That provided evidence that the government's slashing of interest rates and fiscal stimulus had not been as effective as hoped. Thus, skeptics rejected the market-oriented-reform rationale. Instead, they interpreted the devaluation as a desperate attempt to stimulate China's sluggish economy and keep exports from falling further.

China's economy depends heavily on its exported goods. By devaluing its currency, the Asian giant lowered the price of its exports and gained a competitive advantage in the international markets. A weaker currency also made China's imports costlier, thus spurring the production of substitute products at home to aid domestic companies.

The U.S. government was particularly incensed because many U.S. politicians had been claiming for years that China had kept its currency artificially low at the expense of American exporters. Some believed that China's devaluation of the yuan was just the beginning of a currency war that could increase trade tensions.

Consistent with Market Fundamentals

Although a lower-valued yuan would give China somewhat of a competitive advantage, trade wise, the move was not wholly counter to market fundamentals.

Over the past 20 years, the yuan had been appreciating relative to nearly every other major currency, including the U.S. dollar. Essentially, Chinas policy allowed the market to determine the direction of the yuan's movement while restricting the rate at which it appreciated. However, China's economy had slowed significantly in the years before the devaluation. On the other hand, the U.S. economy had improved. A continued rise in the yuans value no longer aligned with market fundamentals.

Understanding the market fundamentals clarifies that the small devaluation by the PBOC was a necessary adjustment rather than a beggar-thy-neighbor manipulation of the exchange rate. While many American politicians grumbled, China was actually doing what the U.S. has prodded it to do for yearsallow the market to determine the yuan's value. While the drop in the yuan's value was the largest in two decades, the currency remained stronger than it had been in the previous year in trade-weighted terms.

Impact on Global Trade Markets

Currency devaluation is nothing new. From the European Union to developing nations, many countries have devalued their currency periodically to help cushion their economies. However, China's devaluations could be problematic for the global economy. Given that China is the worlds largest exporter and its second-largest economy, any change that such a large entity makes to the macroeconomic landscape has significant repercussions.

With Chinese goods becoming cheaper, many small- to medium-sized export-driven economies could see reduced trade revenues. If these nations are debt-ridden and have a heavy dependence on exports, their economies could suffer. For instance, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Indonesia greatly rely on their footwear and textile exports. These countries could suffer if China's devaluations make its goods cheaper in the global marketplace.

Impact on India

For the Indian economy, a weaker Chinese currency had several implications. As a result of China's decision to let the yuan fall against the dollar, demand for dollars surged worldwide. That included India, where investors bought into the greenback's safety at the expense of the rupee. The Indian currency immediately plunged to a two-year low against the dollar and remained low throughout the latter half of 2015. The threat of greater emerging market risk due to the yuan devaluation led to increased volatility in Indian bond markets, which triggered further weakness for the rupee.

Usually, a declining rupee would aid domestic Indian manufacturers by making their products more affordable for international buyers. However, in the context of a weaker yuan and slowing demand in China, a more competitive rupee is unlikely to offset weaker demand going forward.

Additionally, China and India compete in several industries, including textiles, apparel, chemicals, and metals. A weaker yuan meant more competition and lower margins for Indian exporters. It also meant that Chinese producers could dump goods into the Indian market, thereby undercutting domestic manufacturers. India had already seen its trade deficit with China nearly double between 2008 to 2009 and 2014 to 2015.

As the worlds largest energy consumer, China plays a significant role in how crude oil is priced. The PBOCs decision to devalue the yuan signaled to investors that Chinese demand for the commodity, which had already been slowing, would continue to decline. The global benchmark Brent crude fell more than 20% after China devalued its currency in mid-August.

For India, every $1 drop in oil prices resulted in a $1 billion decline in the countrys oil import bill, which stood at $139 billion in the fiscal year 2015. On the flip side, falling commodity prices made it much more difficult for Indian producers to remain competitive.

Charges of Currency Manipulation

The Chinese yuan generally depreciated against the U.S. dollar between 2015 and 2019, leading to charges of currency manipulation. The U.S. Treasury Department officially named China a currency manipulator on August 5, 2019. It was the first time the U.S. had done so since 1984. However, the U.S. lifted the currency manipulator label in early 2020. According to then-U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, China has made enforceable commitments to refrain from competitive devaluation, while promoting transparency and accountability.

Yuan: Dollar Historical Chart.

The Bottom Line

China's main justification for devaluing the yuan in 2015 was the rise of the U.S. dollar. Other reasons included the country's desire to shift toward domestic consumption and a service-based economy. While fears of further devaluations continued on the international investment scene for another year, they faded as China's economy and foreign exchange reserves strengthened in 2017. The negative impact of currency devaluations on relations with the U.S. also contributed to China briefly being labeled as a currency manipulator in 2019 and early 2020.
Dell stock does not exist today, but the company may soon make its way back into the stock market. Dell's founder, Michael Dell, took the company private in 2013, but before that time, Dell was a publicly traded company under the symbol DELL. The company had its initial public offering (IPO) in 1988 and was publicly traded until the privatization deal was approved in 2013. The agreement to take the company private was valued at around $24.9 billion. Michael Dell partnered with Silver Lake Partners, a prominent private equity firm, to take the company private to allow it to focus more on its long-term strategy without having to be pressured by the short term growth, profitability, and equity analysts' focus on quarterly earnings. This deal was the largest corporate privatization in history at the time.

In January 2018, CNBC reported that Dell was considering a reverse-merger to VMware Inc. (VMW), a publicly traded cloud-computing company that Dell bought as a part of its $67 billion acquisition of EMC in 2015. If Dell were to sell itself to the smaller company it already owns, it would be able to get back onto the market without a listing. Dell may also undertake the traditional IPO route, but either way, it seems that the tech giant may remain private for much longer.

History of Dell

Michael Dell began the company in 1984 as PCs Limited when he was a student at the University of Texas. He started by operating the company from his dormitory room. The business focused on building IBM-compatible computers with readily available stock parts. Dell advertised the computers directly to consumers in national computer magazines. Customers could pick options to have their computer custom assembled.

The company began operating under the name of Dell Computer Corporation in 1987 and started a push for international expansion. Its first international location was in Britain.

Dell had its IPO in June 1988, raising $30 million. Its market capitalization grew from an initial $1,000 to $85 million. Dell was featured in the Fortune 500 list for the first time in 1992. Michael Dell was the youngest CEO ever of a Fortune 500 company.

In 2004, Michael Dell stepped down as CEO but maintained his position as chair of the board. After some hiccups at the company in 2005, Dell stepped back into his former role as CEO in 2007.

Reasons for Going Private

Dell laid out its argument for going private in a 2013 SEC filing. The company stated it was fighting for market share in a sector that was seeing lower sales of personal computers due to increased demand for smartphones and tablets. The company had missed its own revenue projections for the prior seven quarters. Projections for 2013 revenue decreased from $66 billion to a more dreary $55 billion.

Michael Dell stated that getting the company back on track would require substantial changes in its business model and the introduction of new products and services. He believed these requirements would lead to substantial volatility in the stock price and lowered future earnings.

In a 2014 opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal, Michael Dell cited myopic financial markets and activist investors too focused on short-term results as the main drivers for taking the company private. By going private, the company can focus on a long-term strategy to position it for success in the future. It can align its interests with those of its customers. Dell said the company was prospering after going private since its team could focus on innovating for customers rather than worrying about quarterly results.

EMC Deal

Dell continued its pattern of privatization by announcing a joint deal with Silver Lake Partners to take EMC private for a cash and stock deal valued at $67 billion. EMC is an information technology company focused on traditional and cloud-based storage centers. The deal also allowed Dell to gain close to 80% interest in VMware that continued to trade as a public company. Its net income in 2016 was $1.2 billion.
Palantir files to go public in direct listing with ticker PLTR

Specializes in software analyzing big data for security, surveillance

Customers include governments and private sector firms

Has never been profitable, revenue was $742 million in 2019

Public criticism of actions, negative media coverage listed as risk

Billionaire investor and Facebook board member Peter Thiel's big data and analytics software company Palantir has joined other tech unicorns (Snowflake, JFrog, Unity, Asana) in filing to go public this week. This one has drawn much more attention, however. For one thing, the firm has been notoriously secretive so far. It's also the fifth most valuable startup in the world with a valuation of $20 billion in 2015, and investors have been anticipating its stock market debut for a long time. Since its founding in 2003, it has raised $2.6 billion in funding from 32 investors, according to Crunchbase.

Here are some other financial highlights we've learned:

Revenue 2019: $742 million, +25% year over year

Net loss 2019: $580 million. It hasn't turned a profit yet.

Revenue H1 2020: $481.2 million, +49% year over year

Customers in H1 2020: 125 in more than 150 countries

Top 3 customers accounted for 28% of revenue in 2019 (listed as risk)

Total addressable market estimated at $119 billion

Class F shares for 3 founders with just below 50% of the total voting power

It has chosen the direct listing route

Fans of The Lord of The Rings may recognize that "palantir" is the name of the seeing stones/orbs in J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy series. The company pulls and analyzes data, often of the sensitive kind, from a variety of sources and constructs easy to use surveillance platforms for its government and private sector customers. Its elite team of engineers are dispatched to clients to execute these projects. It's had middling success with commercial enterprises, with a notable failure at JPMorgan when the bank's security chief went rogue, but its biggest collaborations have been in helping the U.S. army overseas, and law enforcement agencies within borders, like the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and police departments. In fact, the filing says Palantir is, "working towards becoming the default operating system across the U.S. government."

A lot differentiates Palantir from internet giants. Its leaders, who have vociferously derided the culture in Silicon Valley, take pride in this. The firm recently moved its headquarters from Palo Alto, California to Denver, Colorado in an apparent snub. "The engineering elite of Silicon Valley may know more than most about building software. But they do not know more about how society should be organized or what justice requires," wrote CEO and co-founder Alex Karp in a letter accompanying yesterday's filing. "Software projects with our nations defense and intelligence agencies, whose missions are to keep us safe, have become controversial, while companies built on advertising dollars are commonplace."

There is a lot for those interested in ESG investing to consider, according to the Investor Alliance for Human Rights. The non-profit group comprises of over 160 institutional investors from around the world with a total of over $5 trillion in assets under management. It published a detailed briefing on Palantir and human rights risks last year. Palantir has acknowledged "public criticism, including from political and social activists, and unfavorable coverage in the media" as one of the risks in its filing.
It's only a slight overstatement to suggest that Yahoo! Inc., founded in 1994 by Jerry Yang and David Filo, was the SpaceX of the late 1990s. Back then, the concept of using a single search engine to quickly and easily search this remarkable construct called the Internet seemed as futuristic as commercial interplanetary travel or asteroid mining do today. Throw in a free email service, instant messaging, and up-to-the-hour news feeds, and Yahoo appeared poised to become the technology company for a new century.

Then Google, now Alphabet Inc. (GOOG), happened. It offering virtually everything Yahoo did except cheaper and faster, condemning Yahoo to the unfortunate fate of devolve from precocious upstart to sluggish legacy company in a mere 18 months. Today, Yahoo exists as a diminished but still lucrative amalgam of disparate offerings  everything from fantasy football and celebrity gossip to web hosting and maps, all packaged for Yahoo's real clients, advertisers.

After its revenues began shrinking following its peak in 2007, Yahoo was acquired by Verizon (VZ) for $4.5 billion in 2017, where it now operates alongside brands like HuffPost and Tumblr under the umbrella once called "Oath"  recently retooled as "Verizon Media." Confusingly, Oath and Verizon Media both currently exist, and therefore sites like Yahoo are effectively being run by two different companies. This has lead to disorganized management.

The Business Model

Verizon's 2017 acquisition totally shook up Yahoo's business model and turned the company away from the Asian market. Yahoo's business included an equity stake in Alibaba (BABA), the astonishingly successful Chinese monolith that serves as something of a hybrid eBay Inc. (EBAY), Amazon Inc. (AMZN), and Google to China. That stake, initiated by former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer, had been keeping Yahoo alive through most of its digression. Verizon chose not to acquire the Alibaba stake. It also chose to exclude Yahoo Japan from the sale.

Most of Yahoo's business model was redundant in a sated marketplace, and despite Verizon Media's efforts, this may still be true. Almost every Yahoo service has a more prominent, more successful, and more easily identifiable competitor: Yahoo Movies (Comcas's Fandango), Yahoo Weather (Weather.com, another Comcast property), Yahoo Sports (Walt Disney Co.'s (DIS) ESPN.com), and the list goes on and on. But if you have an active Yahoo email account that you never bothered to close after switching to Gmail, or if you happen to click on a Yahoo-branded news link, congratulations. You are one of the active monthly users whom the company claims to engage. Verizon's strategy is to leverage this "engagement" for digital advertising. Verizon Media currently owns branded 23 sites, including nine Yahoo sites.

Key Takeaways In the late 1990s, Yahoo was poised to become the biggest name is tech. Then Google happened.

Yahoo's revenues peaked in 2007, shrinking every year thereafter.

Verizon acquired Yahoo for $4.5 billion in June 2017.

Nine Yahoo sites make up over a third of Verizon Media's branded sites.

Digital Ads

Ads on Yahoo sites work like any other digital ads. Yahoo sells ad-space to advertisers. The more clicks a certain piece of ad-space garners, the more valuable it is. Advertisers can choose to buy space on Yahoo sites through Verizon Media's supply side platform (SSP), which is more profitable for Yahoo, or on third party demand site platforms (DSP), which is more efficient for advertisers and less profitable for Yahoo.

While it is difficult to determine Yahoo's financial performance from Verizon's financial statements, it does seem that "engagement" with Yahoo sites is working for Verizon, just not nearly as well as the company had hoped. According to its annual report, Verizon's media business saw a revenue increase of $1.7 billion, or 16.6% in 2018 compared to 2017. Most of this revenue increase is attributable to the influx of advertising dollars Verizon Media now collects from Yahoo sites. This makes Yahoo just barely profitable, given that Verizon Media's operating costs also rose by $1.3 billion, or 4.1%, due to its takeover of Yahoo.

Verizon's annual report also admits that its Yahoo acquisition is proving less profitable than expected, despite an unprecedented 22% rise in industry-wide revenues during the first three quarters of 2018. This is because the takeover injected even more competition into the already extremely competitive digital advertising market. Google currently dominates the market, but it is losing ground to Facebook and Amazon. As a result, Verizon's current marketshare in digital ads is currently only 2.9%, down from 3.4% in 2018.

2.9% Verizon's share of the digital advertising market.

As it stands, Yahoo, and Verizon Media broadly, are still money makers for Verizon, but just barely. Although the digital ad industry is booming in terms of volume, Verizon's decreasing market share doesn't bode well for the company's future in the space.

Future Plans

Verizon Media is undergoing significant changes in an attempt to save itself. The company is planning on launching a whopping 20 new products in the next six months. Yahoo Finance and Yahoo Mail play big roles in this strategy. The hope is to boost Yahoo's profitability by better integrating the brand with Verizon's other products and by launching subscription-based services for premium content on Yahoo's most popular site, Yahoo Finance.

Verizon Media is currently undergoing a complete overhaul. Yahoo plays a central role in this reconfiguration.

Subscription Services

In June 2019, Yahoo Finance launched a subscription service called Yahoo Finance Premium that provides investors with premium content. These include premium data and charting, advanced portfolio analytics, research reports and investment ideas, and company profiles. The site also allows investors to link their pre-existing eTrade accounts to their Yahoo Finance account. Although the service has already launched, some of these features are still being fully fleshed out.

The service comes at a price of $49.99 per month.

Verizon Media also launched a similar subscription program for Huffpost.

Inbox Commerce

Yahoo has also just launched an updated version of the Yahoo Mail app, which they call a "super-app." This update centers around a new "Deals" tab in the app, which offers individualized online shopping offers to users. Verizon Media's CEO, Guru Gowrappan, calls this "enabling commerce through mail." This update will hopefully provide space for Yahoo to sell more ads inside one of its platforms. In doing this, Yahoo is betting on users who are already faithful to Yahoo. This set-up could offer some insulation from the fierce competition with Google, Facebook, and Amazon.

Yahoo News XR Program and 5G

In November of 2017, Verizon Media launched a creative studio with immersive media company RYOT to create branded augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and 360-degree video content with corporate partners. It is perhaps Verizon's most futuristic and exciting subsidiary. In April 2019, Yahoo News, Yahoo's second most popular site, announced it would oversee a partner program between Verizon's RYOT Studio and high-profile news organizations including Reuters, the Associated Press, and TIME. Through this program, RYOT and Yahoo News will supposedly help other news outlets create AR and VR news content.

Yahoo News plans to monetize this venture by infusing news content with the VR- and AR-branded content  read: ads  that RYOT has experience making. RYOT will also offer partners access to its software development kit, which makes the creation of VR and AR content more cost effective.

This studio also serves a flashy, modern project that integrates Verizon's upcoming launch of its 5G network. This network will be integrated into all of Verizon Media's products to raise their speeds. The RYOT studio is designed to show off what such speeds can do, and to encourage users to consume the studio's data-intensive content using Verizon devices and apps.

Verizon is investing heavily in 5G. It aims to be the first company to offer 5G speeds.

Staff Cuts

Like all digital media companies, Verizon Media and Yahoo are currently doing all they can to weather growing instability in the industry. Earlier this year, Verizon Media cut 7% of its workforce.

Key Challenges

As already outlined above, Yahoo and Verizon Media are facing a lot of challenges. Here's a recap.
List of Stock Exchanges by Market Capitalization Exchange Location Market Cap.* NYSE U.S. 26.11 Nasdaq U.S. 22.42 Shanghai Stock Exchange China 7.37 Tokyo Stock Exchange Japan 6.0 Shenzhen Stock Exchange China 5.33 Hong Kong Stock Exchange Hong Kong 4.97 London Stock Exchange U.K. 3.57 India National Stock Exchange India 3.45 Toronto Stock Exchange Canada 3.41 Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) Saudi Arabia 3.20 Bombay Stock Exchange India 2.22 Copenhagen Stock Exchange Denmark 2.18 Frankfurt Stock Exchange Germany 2.17 SIX Swiss Exchange Switzerland 2.13 South Korea Stock Exchange South Korea 2.12 Euronext Paris Exchange France 2.09 Australia Securities Exchange Australia 1.99 Taiwan Stock Exchange Taiwan 1.92 Johannesburg Stock Exchange South Africa 1.33 Tehran Stock Exchange Iran 1.28 * as of May 2022

Source: Trading Hours.

Over-the-Counter Exchanges

There also exist several loosely regulated over-the-counter (OTC) exchanges, which may also be referred to as bulletin boards (OTCBB). These shares tend to be riskier since they list companies that fail to meet the more strict listing criteria of bigger exchanges. Larger exchanges may require that a company has been in operation for a certain amount of time before being listed and that it meets certain conditions regarding company value and profitability.

In most developed countries, stock exchanges are self-regulatory organizations (SROs), non-governmental organizations that have the power to create and enforce industry regulations and standards.

The priority for stock exchanges is to protect investors through the establishment of rules that promote ethics and equality. Examples of such SROs in the U.S. include individual stock exchanges, as well as the National Association of Securities Dealers (NASD) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).



Stock Market Indexes

Indices represent aggregated prices of several different stocks, and the movement of an index is the net effect of the movements of each component. Major stock market indexes include theDow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the S&P 500.

The DJIA is a price-weighted index of 30 large American corporations. Because of its weighting scheme and the fact that it only consists of 30 stocks (when there are many thousands to choose from), it is not a good indicator of how the stock market is doing. The S&P 500 is a market-cap-weighted index of the 500 largest companies in the U.S. and is a much more valid indicator.

Indices can be broad such as the Dow Jones or S&P 500, or they can be specific to a certain industry or market sector. Investors can trade indices indirectly via futures markets, or via exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which act just like stocks on stock exchanges.

A market index is a popular measure of stock market performance. Most market indices are market-cap weighted, which means that the weight of each index constituent is proportional to its market capitalization. Keep in mind, though, that a few of them are price-weighted, such as the DJIA. In addition to the DJIA, other widely watched indices in the U.S. and internationally include the:

S&P 500

Nasdaq Composite

Russell Indices (Russell 1000, Russell 2000)

TSX Composite (Canada)

FTSE Index (UK)

Nikkei 225 (Japan)

Dax Index (Germany)

CAC 40 Index (France)

CSI 300 Index (China)

Sensex (India)

Why Companies Issue Shares

To make the transition from an idea germinating in an entrepreneur's brain to an operating company, they need to lease an office or factory, hire employees, buy equipment and raw materials, and put in place a sales and distribution network, among other things. These resources require significant amounts of capital, depending on the scale and scope of the business.

Raising Capital

Many corporate giants started as small private entities launched by visionary founders like Jack Ma of Alibaba (BABA) or Mark Zuckerberg of Meta.

A startup can raise capital either by selling shares through equity financing or borrowing money through debt financing. Debt financing can be a problem for a startup because it may have few assets to pledge for a loan.

Equity financing is the preferred route for most startups that need capital. The entrepreneur may initially source funds from personal savings, as well as friends and family, to get the business off the ground. As the business expands and its capital requirements become more substantial, the entrepreneur may turn to angel investors and venture capital firms.

Listing Shares

Companies can access larger amounts of capital than they can get from ongoing operations or a traditional bank loan by selling shares to the public through an initial public offering (IPO).

This changes the status of the company from a private firm whose shares are held by a few shareholders to a publicly-traded company whose shares will be held by numerous members of the general public. The IPO also offers early investors in the company an opportunity to cash out part of their stake, often reaping very handsome rewards in the process.

Once the company's shares are listed on a stock exchange and trading on the market, the price of these shares fluctuates as investors and traders assess and reassess their intrinsic value. There are many different ratios and metrics that can be used to value stocks, of which the single-most popular measure is probably the price-to-earnings (PE) ratio. Stock analysis tends to fall into one of two campsfundamental analysis, or technical analysis.

How Share Prices Are Set

The prices of shares on a stock market can be set in several ways. The most common way is through an auction process where buyers and sellers place bids and offer to buy or sell. A bid is a price at which somebody wishes to buy, and an offer, or ask, is the price at which somebody wishes to sell. When the bid and ask coincide, a trade is made.

Stock Market Supply and Demand

The stock market also offers a fascinating example of the laws of supply and demand at work in real time. For every stock transaction, there must be a buyer and a seller. Because of the immutable laws of supply and demand, if there are more buyers for a specific stock than there are sellers of it, the stock price will trend up. Conversely, if there are more sellers of the stock than buyers, the price will trend down.

The bid-ask or bid-offer spread, the difference between the bid price for a stock and its ask or offer price, represents the difference between the highest price that a buyer is willing to pay or bid for a stock and the lowest price at which a seller is offering the stock.

A trade transaction occurs either when a buyer accepts the asking price or a seller takes the bid price. If buyers outnumber sellers, they may be willing to raise their bids to acquire the stock. Sellers will, therefore, ask higher prices for it, ratcheting the price up. If sellers outnumber buyers, they may be willing to accept lower offers for the stock, while buyers will also lower their bids, effectively forcing the price down.

Matching Buyers to Sellers

Some stock markets rely on professional traders to maintain continuous bids and offers since a motivated buyer or seller may not find each other at any given moment. These are known as specialists or market makers.

A two-sided market consists of the bid and the offer, and the spread is the difference in price between the bid and the offer. The more narrow the price spread and the larger size of the bids and offers, the greater the liquidity of the stock. If there are many buyers and sellers at sequentially higher and lower prices, the market is said to have good depth.

The original manual method of trading was based on a system known as the open outcry system, where traders used verbal and hand signal communications to buy and sell large blocks of stocks in the trading pit or the exchange floor.

However, the open outcry system has been superseded by electronic trading systems at most exchanges. These systems can match buyers and sellers far more efficiently and rapidly, resulting in significant benefits such as lower trading costs and faster trade execution.

High-quality stock markets tend to have small bid-ask spreads, high liquidity, and good depth, which means that individual stocks of high quality, large companies tend to have the same characteristics.

Advantages of Stock Exchange Listing

An exchange listing means ready liquidity for shares held by the company's shareholders.

It enables the company to raise additional funds by issuing more shares.

Having publicly tradable shares makes it easier to set up stock options plans that can attract talented employees.

Listed companies have greater visibility in the marketplace; analyst coverage and demand from institutional investors can drive up the share price.

Listed shares can be used as currency by the company to make acquisitions in which part or all of the consideration is paid in stock.

Disadvantages of Stock Exchange Listing

Significant costs associated with listing on an exchange, such as listing fees and higher costs associated with compliance and reporting.

Burdensome regulations may constrict a company's ability to do business.

The short-term focus of most investors forces companies to try and beat their quarterly earnings estimates than take a long-term approach to their corporate strategy.

Many giant startups choose to get listed on an exchange at a much later stage than startups from a decade or two ago.

While this delayed listing may partly be attributable to the drawbacks listed above, the main reason could be that well-managed startups with a compelling business proposition have access to unprecedented amounts of capital from sovereign wealth funds, private equity, and venture capitalists. Such access to seemingly unlimited amounts of capital would make an IPO and exchange listing much less of a pressing issue for a startup.

Investing in Stocks

Numerous studies have shown that, over long periods, stocks generate investment returns that are superior to those from every other asset class. Stock returns arise from capital gains and dividends.

A capital gain occurs when you sell a stock at a higher price than the price at which you purchased it. A dividend is the share of profit that a company distributes to its shareholders. Dividends are an important component of stock returns. They have contributed nearly one-third of total equity return since 1956, while capital gains have contributed two-thirds.

While the allure of buying a stock similar to one of the fabled FAANG quintetMeta, Apple (AAPL), Amazon (AMZN), Netflix (NFLX), and Google parent Alphabet (GOOGL)at a very early stage is one of the more tantalizing prospects of stock investing, in reality, such home runs are few and far between.

Investment often depends on an individual's tolerance for risk. Risky investors may generate most of their returns from capital gains rather than dividends. On the other hand, investors who are conservative and require income from their portfolios may opt for stocks that have a long history of paying substantial dividends.

Market Cap and Sector

While stocks can be classified in several ways, two of the most common are by market capitalization and by sector. Market cap refers to the total market value of a company's outstanding shares and is calculated by multiplying these shares by the current market price of one share.

Large-cap companies are generally regarded as those with a market capitalization of $10 billion or more, while mid-cap companies are those with a market capitalization of between $2 billion and $10 billion, and small-cap companies fall between $250 million and $2 billion.

The industry standard for stock classification by sector is the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS), which was developed by MSCI and S&P Dow Jones Indices in 1999 as an efficient tool to capture the breadth, depth, and evolution of industry sectors. GICS is a four-tiered industry classification system that consists of 11 sectors and 24 industry groups. The 11 sectors are:

Energy

Materials

Industrials

Consumer Discretionary

Consumer Staples

Health Care

Financials

Information Technology

Communication Services

Utilities

Real Estate

This sector classification makes it easy for investors to tailor their portfolios according to their risk tolerance and investment preference. Conservative investors with income needs may weigh their portfolios toward sectors whose constituent stocks have better price stability and offer attractive dividends through so-called defensive sectors such as consumer staples, health care, and utilities. Aggressive investors may prefer more volatile sectors such as information technology, financials, and energy.



How Does Inflation Affect the Stock Market? Inflation refers to an increase in consumer prices, either due to an oversupply of money or a shortage of consumer goods. The effects of inflation on the stock market are unpredictable: in some cases, it can lead to higher share prices, due to more money entering the market and increased job growth. However, higher input prices can also restrict corporate earnings, causing profits to fall. Overall, value stocks tend to perform better than growth stocks in times of high inflation.

How Much Does the Stock Market Grow Every Year? The S&P 500 has grown about 10.5% per year since it was established in the 1920s. Using this as a barometer for market growth, one can estimate that the stock market grows in value by about the same amount each year. However, there is an element of probability: in some years the stock market sees greater growth, and in some years it grows less. In addition, some stocks grow faster than others.

How Do People Lose Money in the Stock Market? Most people who lose money in the stock market do so through reckless investments in high-risk securities. Although these can score high returns if they are successful, they are just as likely to lose money. There is also an element of psychology: an investor who sells during a crash will lock in their losses, while those who hold their stock have a chance of seeing their patience rewarded. Finally, margin trading can make the stock market even riskier, by magnifying one's potential gains or losses.

The Bottom Line

Stock markets represent the heartbeat of the market, and experts often use stock prices as a barometer of economic health. But the importance of stock markets goes beyond mere speculation. By allowing companies to sell their shares to thousands or millions of retail investors, stock markets also represent an important source of capital for public companies.
Women have been paving the path for entrepreneurs in every industry for many decades. From Estee Lauder, who launched her cosmetics company in the 1940s, to Ruth Fertel, who wanted to have the best steak restaurantRuths Chris Steak House, women entrepreneurs have been able to withstand economic and business pressures to be the best.

Today, the list of women entrepreneurs spans many industries. Below is a list of the 10 most successful women entrepreneurs who have made a significant mark in recent decades. This list is in no particular order, and by no means exhaustive, but strives to recognize women who have built a world-renowned brand through their own hard work and strong drive.

Key Takeaways Most entrepreneurs and executives still tend to be men, but more and more women are becoming business leaders and innovators.

While there are a handful of woman founders from the past, such as Estee Lauder, the past few decades have marked a great upsurge in self-made women in business.

While women entrepreneurs are historically most known for running fashion houses or cosmetic companies, in more recent decades, many have made their marks in other industries, such as real estate and biopharma.

Real Estate

Zhang Xin

Zhang Xin is co-founder of SOHO China, a real estate development firm in China that went public in 2007. Known as the woman who built Beijing, she was once a factory worker, later graduating from Cambridge University with a masters degree in economic development. Zhang worked for Goldman Sachs before launching her company; she has since amassed a $3 billion fortune.

Biotechnology

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the founder of Biocon, an Indian biopharma company. She began Biocon out of a rented shed and grew it into Indias largest listed biopharma firm in terms of revenue. Biocon, a global company, went public in 2004 and became only the second Indian company to reach $1 billion on its first trading day. Mazumdar-Shaw is Indias wealthiest self-made woman, with a net worth of $4 billion, according to Forbes, as of February 2022.

Workforce Management

Janice Bryant Howroyd

Janice Bryant Howroyd is the founder of ActOne Group, the first Black female-led company to bring in more than $1 billion in annual revenue.

ActOne is primarily an employment agency and consultancy based in Los Angeles. It has more than 17,000 clients in 19 countries and, like many of her counterparts on this list, Howroyd started from very humble beginnings. She launched her company with just $1,500 in 1978. She is listed in Forbes 2020 Americas Richest Self-Made Women.

Entertainment and Media

Oprah Winfrey

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey continues to build her media empire. Winfrey, a TV personality turned entrepreneur, co-founded Oxygen Media, a cable station. She continued hosting her talk show until 2011, after which she created OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, of which she is the CEO. In 2015, Winfrey bought an equity stake in Weight Watchers International and became a spokeswoman for the popular subscription weight loss program. Winfreys net worth is $2.6 billion, according to Forbes.

Beyonce

The singer-songwriter, who started as part of Destinys Child in the mid-1990s, has since become a huge top-selling female solo artist and a global brand. Beyonce signed a $50 million endorsement deal with PepsiCo in 2012. Through her company, Parkwood Entertainment, Beyonce produces movies, music, and clothing. In 2019, she signed a $60 million contract with Netflix to provide content to the streaming service.

Arianna Huffington

Arianna Huffington launched the news website The Huffington Post in 2005. She later sold it to AOL in 2011 but continued to guide it and grow the Huffington brand overseas. In 2016, she stepped down from The Huffington Post to launch health and wellness startup Thrive Global, which she leads as CEO. Time Magazine has included her in its list of the worlds 100 most influential people.

Globally, only one in three businesses are owned by women, according to the World Bank.

Fashion and Beauty

Tory Burch

Founder of her namesake company, Tory Burch launched the U.S.-based clothing and fashion line in 2004. The brand now brings in $1.5 billion in sales annually. She is included in Forbes list of most powerful women in the world in 2020. Burch is also a philanthropist who launched the Tory Burch Foundation to support women entrepreneurs.

Sara Blakely

The inventor of Spanx undergarments for women and men, Blakely started with only $5,000 of her own money, an idea, and pure drive. Today, the brand is sold in more than 50 countries. Like Tory Burch, Blakely also has a foundation to help women worldwide. To support women entrepreneurs during the 2020 economic crisis, she teamed up with GlobalGiving to launch the Red Backpack Fund, which awarded more than a thousand $5,000 awards to women business owners.

Katie Rodan and Kathy Fields

The co-founders of skincare and multilevel marketing company Rodan + Fields felt so strongly about eradicating acne for all ages that they joined together to develop their flagship product, Proactiv, in 1995. The makers have since taken the dermatologic knowledge that helped them conquer the acne market to the anti-aging skincare market. Each has a net worth of $675 million and is listed in Forbes 2020 Americas Richest Self-Made Women.

Rihanna

At just 34 years old, Rihanna is the youngest woman on this list. The superstar singer has made most of her $1.7 billion fortune from Fenty Beauty, a cosmetics line that she co-owns with luxury goods group LVMH. She also co-owns Savage X Fenty, a lingerie line, with investors. Her foundation, the Clara Lionel Foundation, raised $47 million for climate, racial justice, COVID-related relief, and other causes in 2020. Rihanna is listed in Forbes 2020 Americas Richest Self-Made Women.

Who Are the Top Women Entrepreneurs?

Women entrepreneurs have shaped many industries. Zhang Xin is known as "the woman who built Beijing" thanks to her work in real estate as co-founder of SOHO China. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw founded Biocon, the largest listed biopharmaceutical company in India based on revenues. Janice Bryant Howroyd co-founded ActOne Group, a workforce management firm with over 17,000 clients in 19 countries. It was the first Black-owned company to achieve $1 billion in annual revenues. Ariana Huffington, The Huffington Post founder, sold the publication to AOL for $315 million in 2011. Rihanna, singer and business owner, runs Fenty Beauty, a billion-dollar company.



Who Are the Top Women Entrepreneurs in Entertainment?

With a net worth of $2.6 billion, Oprah Winfrey is the most famous woman entrepreneur in media and entertainment. Winfrey runs the multinational cable network OWN and co-founded Oxygen Media. Ariana Huffington and Rihanna are among the top entrepreneurs in media and entertainment, along with Katy Perry, and Beyonce.

Who Are Notable Women Entrepreneurs?

Behind the scene of many well-known companies and brands are women founders and entrepreneurs. 23andMe, a DNA testing company, was founded by Anne Wojcicki in 2006. Robotics firm Automation Anywhere was co-founded by Neeti Mehta in san Jose, California. Computer security company CloudFlare was co-founded by Michelle Zatlyn in 2009, while Paya Kadakia co-founded subscription marketplace Classpass, which has partnerships with over 30,000 health establishments worldwide.

The Bottom Line

Women entrepreneurs are historically most known for running fashion houses (Diane von Furstenberg) or cosmetic companies (Mary Kay Ash), but in more recent decades, a remarkable number of entrepreneurs have risen to prominence in a wide range of industries.
This report serves to further undermine recent commentary by Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei claiming that the US has been pursuing aggressive economic policies toward the Islamic Republic and violating the spirit of the nuclear agreement by discouraging foreign investment.

Iran News Update previously reported upon the remarks that Khamenei made on the occasion of the Iranian New Year celebration of Nowruz. The supreme leader declared the year ahead to be the Year of the Resistance Economy, thereby encouraging Iranian businesses to operate on the assumption that foreign investment will not be forthcoming and that it will still be incumbent upon them to violate and evade US-led economic sanctions.

In addition to conveying Khameneis remarks, those previous reports also addressed the real circumstances behind them, as well as some of the ways in which those remarks have proven to be dramatically exaggerated or one-sided. While it is true that international banks have avoided the Iranian market out of fear of lingering economic sanctions and the possible reversal of recent trends toward rapprochement, it is also true that the US government has complied with its commitment, even as the Iranians have made provocative moves that many see as undercutting the deal.

The Associated Press report goes further in contradicting Khameneis characterization of the situation. It indicates that far beyond simply complying with its obligations to suspend economic sanctions, the US is actually going to the trouble of actively encouraging re-engagement with the Islamic Republic.

But in light of Iranian activities like this months test-firing of three nuclear capable ballistic missiles, some in the West are sure to see the efforts of people like Buckemeyer as going too far. Many Western critics of the nuclear deal expressed serious concerns that newly acquired Iranian capital would find its way into the hands of terrorist organizations or would otherwise be devoted to destabilizing Iranian activities.

Some of these dangers were highlighted anew in the AP report, and have apparently even been highlighted by the US governments lobbying of American businesses that might choose to re-engage with Iran. Buckemeyer reportedly mentions the high levels of economic influence enjoyed by the hardline Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and tells US firms that this is a risk factor that they will have to take into account in determining whether their investments are secure or whether they may eventually become subject to new sanctions.

The AP also points out that US firms have been given further pause by recent arrests of American citizens in Iran. These factors support the notion that the roadblocks to economic reconciliation have generally been erected by the Iranians and not by the Americans, who only make the existing risk factors known.

Even so, strong critics of current US policy will no doubt question why American diplomats are encouraging American investment in Iran at all, even if they are doing so with strong caveats in place. The strongest of those critics may even connect this encouragement to their notions about a policy of appeasement under the current US government.

The perception of such a policy was given expression on Wednesday in the Washington Free Beacon in the context of a new report on the 1.7 billion dollar payment that the US arranged to make to Iran around the time of the nuclear deals implementation and a prisoner exchange between the two countries.

Although the payment was characterized as the settlement of long-disputed debts and as a matter separate from the prisoner exchange, a number of commentators soon raised the question of whether it had in fact been a sort of ransom payment to secure the release of four Americans who had been imprisoned in Iran on false charges of spying or undermining national security.

The Free Beacon not only persists in inquiring about the nature of the payment but also suggests that that payment may not be the last of its kind. The article asserts that the talks leading to that payment are part of a broader pattern of backdoor settlement agreements and that this could result in additional US taxpayer money being transferred to the Islamic Republic, and thereby potentially being channeled into illicit activities.

Among those illicit activities are Irans well-publicized human rights violations, which include arbitrary arrests, political imprisonment, and extensive state controls over the media. The danger of increased financing for these activities is made arguably more serious by the fact that many international human rights groups have expressed concern that financial interests concerning a newly de-sanctioned Iran might encourage Western policymakers to turn a blind eye to the continuation of those human rights abuses.
On one hand, the Iranian year 1395 began about eight months after the conclusion of an historic nuclear agreement and just over two months after the January implementation of that agreement. This has naturally contributed to expectations about broader negotiations between the two countries, as well as the utilization of the newfound economic freedoms that come with the lifting of nuclear-related sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

On the other hand, there has been a great deal of pressure against such reconciliation and cooperation, from critics on both sides of the nuclear deal. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who is the ultimate authority in virtually all matters of Iranian policy, was quick to caution his subordinates against negotiation with the West in areas other than the nuclear agreement. And yet, now that that agreement has been implemented and Irans economic recovery has reportedly been slower than anticipated, Khamenei has used his Nowruz speeches to criticize the US for standing in the way of broader economic cooperation.

The International Business Times quoted the supreme leader as reiterating some of what has already been observed by global financial analysts: that international banking institutions are fearful of reestablishing their relations with the Islamic Republic, in light of the persistent danger of punitive measures by the US government.

A number of sanctions remain in place on Iran as a result of its human rights violations and support for international sanctions. These can still be violated if companies are not careful about whom they do business with and under what circumstances. Furthermore, there have been persistent concerns about Irans willingness to cooperate with the international community, especially in light of its provocative tests of three nuclear-capable ballistic missiles earlier this month. Such incidents factor into global businesses concern that suspended sanctions could come back into effect, or that other global enforcement measures could replace them.

This wariness stands to affect the Islamic Republic alongside those businesses themselves. After all, International Business Times reports that Iran needs upwards of 500 billion dollars in largely foreign investment in order to modernize its infrastructure and make up for the damage wrought by economic sanctions. But instead of changing Iranian policy in a way that facilitates a more cooperative and less risky business environment, Khamenei used his Nowruz speeches to suggest that the US alone is at fault for unilateral and unprovoked hostility.

Specifically, the Wall Street Journal quotes Khamenei as accusing the US of having implemented the July 14 nuclear agreement in paper only, while standing against the overall spirit of that agreement by failing to lift the lingering barriers to foreign investment. Meanwhile, critics of the Iranian regime have blamed it for repeatedly violating the overall spirit of the agreement in the sense of its international cooperation over and constraints on Irans potential progress toward nuclear weapons.

Further buttressing this argument, Khameneis Nowruz remarks served to reiterate the justifications that have been offered by a number of Iranian officials for this months ballistic missile tests. Such tests are not technically banned by the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, but there is a parallel UN Security Council resolution that calls upon the Islamic Republic to avoid those tests and other moves toward the development or use of weapons that are capable of carrying a nuclear weapon.

But Khamenei described the tests as an aspect of Irans legitimate national defense and said that the US has no business attempting to enforce constraints on that. Reuters quoted him as saying, America is thousands of kilometres away from the Persian Gulf and conducts exercises there with regional countries  but if we have exercises in our own security realm they protest loudly.

Reuters also quoted Khamenei as saying that American presidential candidates compete to vilify the Islamic Republic. He has similarly indicted the sitting president, although in doing so he has arguably ignored the tendency of some of that presidents domestic critics to regard his policies as weak and tending toward appeasement. The White House, by contrast, tends to characterize its own policies as opening the door to the very reconciliation that Khamenei claims the US has been resisting. Indeed, this appeared to be a major point in President Obamas own Nowruz message to the Iranian people.

The fiercest critics of the Iranian regime tend to characterize this shift as a mistake, based on the false premise that a more moderate Iranian president could lead the way toward broad-based reconciliation. Even so, the persistence of that delicate tone arguably undermines Khameneis claims about persistent aggression.

However, Khameneis own aggression may have prompted a slight backward shift in the tone of President Obamas Nowruz message. That is to say, IranWire characterizes the overall address as continuing to hold the door open for increased trade and international cooperation, but also expressing a sense of disappointment over the fact that Irans behavior had not changed in the ways that would have made this cooperation more politically attainable.

And although Khameneis remarks are intent upon blaming the US for ongoing discord, those same remarks raise pertinent questions about whether a mutually beneficial outcome is attainable at all. Indeed, by declaring that his preferred name for the new year is the Year of the Resistance Economy, Khamenei seems to have already committed his government to ongoing confrontation with the West. Resistance Economy is the name that the supreme leader gave to a set of policies aimed at reducing the impact of economic sanctions, as opposed to complying with the international demands that brought them about.

The Fiscal Times raises additional interesting questions regarding the Iranian regimes likely preferences for the identity of the new American president who will be taking office during this Iranian calendar year. The article suggests that there is reason for Iran to desire a reversal of the Obama administrations policies, in that the more antagonistic foreign policy of the Republican Party better serves the us-versus-them narrative that was expressed in Khameneis Nowruz message.

On the other hand, the continuation of policies similar to President Obamas could have benefits to Irans economy and political influence, despite what Khamenei would have his listeners believe. The Fiscal Times acknowledges that thanks to the nuclear agreement and a set of permissive Western policies, Irans influence over the broader Middle East is larger today than it was several years ago. And this trend could conceivably continue over the long term, provided that Irans ongoing provocations do not go so far as to compel the US to impose new sanctions or take other punitive measures.

But Khameneis recent speeches, complete with defense of the ballistic missile launches, certainly keep open the possibility of a further breakdown in the White Houses cooperative tone. And the statements of other hardline Iranian officials make this possibility seem all the more likely. For instance, the Jerusalem Post reported on Monday that Iranian Revolutionary Guard General Saeed Qasemi had strongly contributed to the global concerns over Irans expansionism when he publicly called for the annexation of Bahrain, a small island nation where Iran has been vying for influence with its main rival Saudi Arabia.

Bahrain is also the headquarters of the US Navys Fifth Fleet, the source of the exercises that Khamenei cited the US as conducting with regional countries.
A broad offensive plan has been launched by Iraqi government in order to retake the city of Hit from ISIL in the western province of Anbar.

Led by the elite Counter-Terrorism Service, forces from the police, army and local tribal fighters were making a final push to retake Hit, 145 KM west of Baghdad.

Major General Ali Ibrahim Daboun stated that they have begun a broad operation to liberate Hit and Kubaysa. Kubaysa is a smaller town a few miles west of Hit, a key hub along the Euphrates that the extremists have controlled since October 2014.

Gen Daboun said Iraqi security forces and tribal fighters had retaken a cement plant west of Kubaysa and raised the Iraqi flag there.

Head of the local council for Al Baghdadi district, Malallah AlObeidi, said, Members of the terrorist Daesh gangs have fled back into the town centre."

Gen Daboun said Iraqi aircraft and jets from the US-led international coalition were providing air support. Al Asad military air base, which houses a large contingent of US and other foreign military advisers, lies around 35 KM north-west of Hit.

Iraqs security forces launched a final push against ISIL in Anbars provincial capital Ramadi late last year and established full control over the city last month. Aid agencies have voiced concern over the fate of an estimated 35,000 civilians who have fled Hit and its surroundings in the run-up to the latest military offensive.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said late on Friday that thousands of freshly displaced people were stranded in areas where very little assistance is available. The organization stated that it was able to deliver aid for the first time to around 12,000 people of west of Ramadi.

Katharina Ritz, head of the ICRC delegation in Iraq, mentioned, We dont know how they managed to survive. Repeated access is crucial in order to help the remaining thousands of people who urgently need humanitarian aid."

IS-militants still controls vast areas of Anbar province near the borders with Jordan and Syria, as well as the city of Fallujah, which is only 50 kilometers from Baghdad.

Meanwhile Pentagon stated that an American member of the international anti-ISIL coalition was killed in northern Iraq due to enemy action" recently.

According to news channel reports, he was killed by a rocket attack on a base in Makhmur, an area around 70 KM south-east of the main ISIL hub of Mosul.

It also said that a small number" of other American troops were wounded in the attack. Makhmur lies within territory controlled by the autonomous northern region of Kurdistan, but Baghdad has recently been deploying federal forces there to prepare for an offensive against Mosul.

The coalitions main role in the war against IS has been to provide air support, with close to 10,000 strikes destroying or damaging more than 16,000 targets since the summer of 2014. But the United States and some of its leading partners in the coalition such as France, Britain, Australia and Italy also have significant contingents deployed on the ground Iraq.



| Soruce: The National | By S.Seal
First shipment of natural gas in its history has been exported by Iraq. This has been noted as a key development for the OPEC member struggling to feed a cash-strapped economy amid an expensive fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

The move revives a long-sought ambition by Iraq to be a gas exporter, thanks to a joint venture with Anglo-Dutch Royal Dutch Shell PLC and Japan's Mitsubishi Corp. Iraq first planned to begin exporting gas in the late 1970s, but that timeline was delayed by the Iraq-Iran war when Iraqi export ports were bombed.

According to oil minister spokesperson, a Panama-flagged gas carrier sailed from Iraq's southern port of Umm Qasr on the Persian Gulf with a cargo of about 10,000 standard cubic feet of gas in the form of condensates.

Jihad wouldn't reveal how much the cargo was worth or the buyer, but he added that the next cargo will be shipped by the end of this month. In November 2011, Iraq signed a $17 billion deal to form a joint venture to gather, process and market gas from three oil fields in the oil-rich province of Basra. The fields are the 17.8 billion-barrel Rumaila, the 4.1 billion barrel Zubair field and the 8.6 billion barrel West Qurna Stage 1.

In the 25-year joint venture, called the Basra Gas Company, Iraq holds a 51-percent stake and Royal Dutch Shell has 44 percent, with the remaining 5 percent for Mitsubishi. International Energy Agency predicted that Iraq has estimated natural gas reserves of 112 trillion cubic meters, making it the 11th largest in the world.

The inauguration of Iraq's gas industry is meant to boost the coffers of a government badly in need of cash to fund ongoing military operations against ISIS, who control key areas of northern and western Iraq, including the second-largest city, Mosul.

Iraq holds the world's fourth largest oil reserves, some 143.1 billion barrels, and oil revenues make up nearly 95 percent of its budget. Like other oil-reliant countries, Iraq's economy has been severely hit by plummeting oil prices since 2014, plunging the nation into an acute financial crisis despite record crude oil export levels.

Due to the crisis, Iraqi PM Haidar al-Abadi compelled to austerity measures by eliminating government posts, merging some ministries, halting spending on construction projects and imposing new taxes to pay for civil servants and fund the military.

According to Oil Ministry figures, Iraq exported an average of 3.225 million barrels a day in February 2016, far below levels planned for this year's budget. Last month exports grossed about $2.2 billion, based on an average price of about $23 per barrel.

Iraq's 2016 budget is based on an expected price of $45 per barrel with a daily export capacity of 3.6 million. As a result, the nearly $89.7 billion budget has a deficit of over $20.5 billion. With the help of loans from international lenders, officers are trying to cover the shortfall.



| Soruce: CBS News | By S.Seal
Oil ministry spokesperson of Iraq, Asim Jihad remarked that Iraq loaded its first export cargo of 10,000 cu feet of LPG Sunday. The shipment from the port of Al-Qasr in the Persian Gulf, marks Iraqs first step towards delivering regular LPG volumes to global markets.

Jihad also mentioned, This is the fruit of the joint efforts of national cadres in the Basra Gas Company, in collaboration with Shell and Mitsubishi.

On the month of December, Oil minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said that LPG production in Iraq was outpacing domestic consumption, but was not stable so the country occasional imports cargoes. He also informed that this is anticipated to be stopped from this year.

In October, Iraqs State Oil Marketing Organization issued a tender seeking 180,000 mt of LPG to be delivered to the Khor al-Zubair port in 2016. In 2015, it imported around 445,000 mt of LPG.

Basrah Gas Company, a Shell-led consortium, aims to capture and process gas flared from the Rumaila, Zubair and West Qurna 1 oil fields for use in power plants and industrial units, and also export.

Since 2013, when it started its operations, the company has doubled the amount of gas it has captured and processed, reaching more than 600 MMcf/day. It plans to increase that to more than 2 Bcf/d with the addition of new facilities.

LPG production has also risen to 3,300 mt/d in 2016, from 2,200 mt/d in December.

With excess LPG, Iraq can now use the rehabilitated storage and marine terminal built in the 1980s at Umm Qasr for exports. Till now, the terminal only received imports of LPG and gasoline to supplement Iraqs own production.



| Soruce: Hellenic Shipping News | By S.Seal
When you are not a student, walking into a university college feels a little like trespassing. Or at least, that was how it felt to me that day in 1989 when I walked into University College Galway.

Passing though the old courtyard, I was half expecting someone to walk up and demand to see my student card. You're an imposter, get out of here, I imagined they'd say.

But no one looked twice at me. It was raining. I walked through the old buildings, which at that time looked down at heel, until I found a long corridor that smelled of ammonia, beer and cigarette smoke.

I had been living in the city of the tribes for two months and I was still finding my feet, so I wasn't there to discuss enrolling that day. In fact I was involved in a far trickier business. I was in search of my adult life.

I had reached the right door. Room 202, it read. GAY/LES SOC said a handwritten sign beneath the printed number.

I opened the door. To any passersby I was simply entering a room, but to myself I was a making a powerful public declaration.

I'm here because this is where I am going, my entry spelled out. This is really the door to my future. I half expected to hear a trumpet blast.

In fact there was no one there at all. I looked around, consulted my watch, and sat down.

I was five minutes early for my scheduled meeting. I took a seat. After a little while I heard footsteps approaching. Then the door that I had entered through minutes earlier swung wide open and a man in his late twenties looked around and said my name.

Are you Cahir, he asked? He pronounced it Care.

I said I was Cahir. I pronounced it Kah-hir. Our north south provenances had already revealed themselves.

He wrinkled his nose. I saw he was what we in those days called a mature student.

He walked right past me to a large desk in the middle of the room which he threw himself into like a CEO waiting to dictate a letter to his secretary. He didn't look at me directly as he spoke.

How can I help you? he asked.

It was a good question. I immediately thought of a Smiths song lyric: Well, when you want to live how do you start? Where do you go? Who do you need to know?

At the risk of sounding glib I didn't say this, however. instead I simply told him the first thing I knew about myself.

I'm from Donegal, I said.

He guffawed. So you're from the a**hole of nowhere, he snorted.

I was very fond of Donegal. This dismissive perspective was news to me.

In return I asked him where he was from and he replied Athlone. I wondered if he thought he had one over on me.

What brings you here? he finally asked.

I replied that although it was a city Galway didn't have a gay bar, or a gay cafe, or a gay anything.

This is only place in town where people can meet, I told him. Or at least so I read.

Do you actually have meetings, I asked? Who comes to them? Could I come too?

For the first time he looked directly at me.

If you want to, he said cooly, letting his tone say no instead.

A strained silence descended. I felt dismissed. I felt as though I had driven a stolen car in the wrong direction and had arrived somewhere I hadn't anticipated.

It can be hard to remember now, but in the Ireland of 1989 there weren't many gay people who were prepared to have an open and honest conversation about who they were and what they wanted.

I was. But before I had even got started this man was dropping a portcullis over my path.

It turned out that I was from the wrong place. I had the wrong accent. From the wrong town.

For all I knew I was wearing the wrong shoes (mine were size 10 Doc Martens; his were ribbed blue leather loafers over noticeably stubby feet).

He gave me a look of immense impatience. In that moment I finally took him in.

He was somewhere between 29 and 35. He looked uncomfortable in his skin. He looked unhappy.

I had seen men and women like this before. People who seemed always on the verge of laughing or shouting. People who might have been happier once but that moment had clearly passed. People who hadn't grown up.

Now he was tapping one foot from side rapidly to convey that his disinterest. This discussion was at an end, his manner said.

Later it would seem to me the country was full of such people. People who had turned inward because they had looked out without a connection for too long.

What I needed, what I had come in search of, was very thin on the ground in Ireland in 1989: a little human honesty and connection. But he could not give it to me because he could not find it himself.

Instead I simply got what people knew how to give then, what so many young people were given at the time: short shrift. Condescension. The door.
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Hand up if you know all about Thomas Francis Meagher?

If you do you're one of a too-select few. He was one of the most accomplished Irishmen of the 19th century, but much of his legacy has been lost to time now and there's a good reason for that. Throughout his life his many enemies did their level best to ensure it.

It would take a book to list all of Meagher's accomplishments, and now there is an excellent one, finally. In "The Immortal Irishman: The Irish Revolutionary Who Became an American Hero" (Houghton, $28) writer and New York Times op-ed columnist Timothy Egan has written it, reintroducing us to one of the most complex and compelling personalities in the long struggle for Irish independence.

Born into one of the few remaining Irish Catholic families of wealth and social standing in the 19th century, in his all too brief 43 years Meagher became that rare thing: an impassioned agitator for social justice.

Although his father was a member of the British Parliament, Thomas grew increasingly repulsed by England's ruthless oppression of his native land, and in particular its unforgivably cruel indifference to the Great Hunger, a defining event in Irish history in which one million people perished and another million emigrated.

Meagher became the leader of the Young Ireland movement, and he plotted a rebellion against the British in 1848. But he was betrayed, apprehended and quickly sentenced to death.

Instead of execution, however, he was shipped off to Van Diemen's Land (now called Tasmania) at a time when being sent to Australia was considered the equivalent of being sent to Mars.

In Australia the Brits tried to make a penitentiary out of a continent, Egan tells the Irish Voice.

Tasmania was the special place in hell reserved for their political prisoners. The brightest, most ambitious generation of twenty-something Irish were all banished to this Mars, but they actually went on to greatness. By locking them away together they actually inspired them to live extraordinary lives.

Meagher successfully plotted his escape to New York City where, by the time he arrived, he was already a celebrated rebel among the 160,000 Irish who had made their new home there.

There are so many elements of the Irish struggle for freedom that are contained within this one man. He was a rebel, a statesman, a military leader in the Civil War, and, for thousands, a romantic figure too.

Originally I was going to write about the Irish Famine but then along the way I found this one remarkable man and I discovered that in his short 43 years, you can tell the story of five arcs of Irish history. That's the kind of person you dream of as a writer, says Egan, who is just concluding a 14 day, three-events-a-day book tour in support of the book.

He says it's been pretty damn stirring to hear so many Irish Americans coming out to hear a nearly long lost story.

I think the lessons of Meagher's life really apply to the current political situation too. If you look at what happened to the first wave of Irish immigrants in the 19th century, how they were treated, it echoes how immigrants are being treated now by one member of a certain political party, Egan said.

Egan realized early on that he could have written a book about each episode of Meagher's life, but he wanted to remind the world just how varied and accomplished it had actually been.

First the rebel, then the political prisoner, then the escapee, then the founder at the beginning of the American Civil War of the Irish Brigade, or the Fighting 69th as it would later be known. Each year that regiment leads the New York City St. Patricks Day parade.

Throughout his life Meagher's commitment to fight oppression and stand up for social justice sometimes saw him take tough positions, when for example, he encouraged support among Irish immigrants for the Union (the fear of job losses had led many of them to drag their heels).

But General Robert Lee was quicker to understand the strength and sheer commitment of Meagher's Irish Brigade, because they participated in every major battle of the Civil War, leading him to derisively comment: Here come those damn green flags again.

For Meagher, the brigade, which would become one of the most storied in American history, was always in training for his most idealistic dream: returning to Ireland with his fully trained troops to fight for its freedom with something more than pitchforks and stones. He was one of the many in a long line of Irish freedom fighters, and as Egan's book makes clear, he was one of the greatest too.
In one of the biggest officially-organised events ever seen in Ireland, hundreds of thousands of people all over the country gathered yesterday to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising against British rule.

The centerpoint of the celebrations was the General Post Office in downtown Dublin which was taken over on Easter Monday 1916 by the Irish revolutionary forces under the leadership of Patrick Pearse and James Connolly.

Captain Peter Kelleher, 27th Infantry Battallion, reads out the Proclamation #ireland2016 pic.twitter.com/qKIOga2lrb  MerrionStreet.ie (@merrionstreet) March 27, 2016

As part of today's commemoration, Captain Peter Kelleher of the Irish Army read out the Proclamation of the Irish Republic with its stirring declaration:

"We hereby proclaim the Irish Republic as a Sovereign Independent State, and we pledge our lives and the lives of our comrades in arms to the cause of its freedom, of its welfare, and of its exaltation among the nations."

Since no government has yet been formed after the recent Irish general election on February 26, Enda Kenny holds the position of Acting Taoiseach, and in that capacity he told the crowd that the State was honoring the memory of those who died in the Easter Rising with the respect and dignity due to them.

The Irish Tricolour of green, white and orange was lowered to half-mast at the GPO and President Michael D Higgins laid a wreath in memory of all those who died.

A minute's silence was observed, the flag was raised again and, while the national anthem was played, the Irish Air Corps conducted a fly-past.

Former Irish presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese were among the dignitaries in attendance, along with Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness. Others present included former taoisigh (prime ministers) Bertie Ahern and Brian Cowen, Lord Mayor of Dublin Criona Ni Dhalaigh and British Ambassador to Ireland, Dominick Chilcott.

As part of the commemoration, almost 4,000 members of the Irish security forces including army, police and emergency services marched from St .Stephen's Green, past the GPO to Capel Street on the north side of the River Liffey.

Children representing the four Irish provinces  Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster  placed daffodils at the GPO. Head chaplain of the Defence Forces, Father Seamus Madigan, said the children's gesture was a "symbol of the unshakeable resolve to live together on this island in peace and harmony."

The city's Luas tram service was not in operation due to a strike and extras buses were laid-on to cope with the demand for public transport.

An earlier wreath-laying service took place at the Stonebreakers' Yard, a stark location in the city's Kilmainham Gaol, where 14 leaders of the Rising were executed by British Army firing squads, a move that alienated Irish public opinion at the time and increased support for the revolutionaries.

The wreath was laid by President Higgins, with members of the caretaker government in attendance as well as Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness from the North's power-sharing Executive.

In a separate ceremony at historic Glasnevin Cemetery, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys and British Ambassador Dominick Chilcott laid wreaths at the Sigerson Memorial, a monument to the rebel dead of Easter Week 1916.

Wreath laying ceremony about to begin here in Glasnevin #tv3news #1916 #EasterRising pic.twitter.com/HhPVsU1874  Laura Hogan (@LauraHoganTV3) March 27, 2016

Wreaths were also laid at the graves of Edward Hollywood, a weaver who made the first Irish Tricolour, and Peadar Kearney, who wrote the lyrics of "The Soldiers' Song," which was later translated into Irish as "Amhran na bhFiann," the Irish national anthem.

In an earlier event at noon on Saturday at the Garden of Remembrance in Dublin, Muriel McAuley, a grand-daughter of Thomas McDonagh, one of the executed leaders of the rebellion, read out the defiant words of Patrick Pearse after the rebellion:

"We seem to have lost; but we have not lost. To refuse to fight would have been to lose; to fight is to win. We have kept faith with the past, and handed on its tradition to the future."

Meanwhile, at a ceremony in Belfast's Milltown Cemetery, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said: A united Ireland means the unity of the people of this island, including those who see themselves as British."

He called for "genuine efforts to outreach to the unionists on the basis of equality."
The sun always dances on Easter morning, a 1916 veteran told me many long years ago in the Laguna Honda nursing home in San Francisco where I interviewed him. It was his beautiful way of explaining what Easter 1916 meant to him.

I thought the comment was ironic, given that the Irish forecast called for heavy rain and thunder squalls on Easter Sunday 2016, but the Irish forecasters proved no match for 1916 prophecy. The day dawned bright and clear with the sun dancing, albeit around heavy clouds, which miraculously did not bring the promised rain until the parade was past.

We Americans were all gathered near the General Post Office, site of the center of the Rising, at an event that had the highest standards of organization and accessibility. The two ambassadors  the Irish Ambassador to the US Anne Anderson and US Ambassador to Ireland Kevin OMalley  were both there. Also present in another section was the British Ambassador Dominick Chilcott.

I had made my way on foot through Dublin; no taxis or buses were available. The streets were thronged with young and old. Green flags and tricolors were proudly for sale. A crowd gathered around a man in Grafton Street singing The Old Fenian Men, delighted kids sat up on parents' backs, soldiers' families laughed and chattered caught up in the excitement waiting for their hero to pass in the grand parade.

Many had brought picnic baskets for the day. The mood was celebratory, happy and a sense of making history reigned.

The military parade followed the lowering and raising of the Irish tricolour over the GPO and included the entire security and rescue apparatus of the state. They all took part in a two hour parade watched by huge numbers who came in from all over the country and Dublin itself as well as by millions on live television.

I almost felt sorry for the revisionist columnists and historians who have tried for decades to bury the Easter Rising and elide it from popular memory. Sunday was their Armageddon day.

Writing in this weeks Sunday Business Post columnist Frank Shouldice, grandson of a 1916 fighter, recalls

the lonely parades of old men when Easter came around with passers-by regarding them as old and out of touch. He notes that a Dubin bishop just two years ago at the low key commemoration referred to the 1916 men and women as brave but misguided. Never again.

The streets of Dublin on this Easter Sunday and the numbers who came out put paid to the scenario of ignoring or denigrating the Rising forever.

Where once celebrations of the Rising had a government health warning, Move on, not much to see here, yesterday it was a full embrace of the day of the birth of a nation. Every important political figure in the nation was there, putting aside their current difficulties in forming a government.

The most popular politician is clearly President Michael D. Higgins, who alone of all the leaders was warmly applauded as he arrived at the viewing area in front of the GPO. But it was a day of fond commemoration rather than a day to gain political advantage.

That is how it should be. It is the Fourth of July and Bastille Day for Ireland, linked to those events through the remarkable Irish proclamation which will endure forever as the cornerstone of the Irish nation. One could see a Jefferson or indeed a Lincoln nodding at the proclamation, understanding exactly its plea for liberty and justice for all.

There was no greater badge of courage in Ireland in the Rising aftermath than to have been been out in 1916, part of the tiny army of 1,200 that ultimately helped topple an empire. There was a special area reserved for families of those who had fought and many families had members who had died. It was an emotional scene to watch as they arrived, full of memories of the Boys of the Old Brigade and the women of those brigades too.

But what must it have been like that long ago Easter Monday to actually charge the GPO in the center of Dublin where the tricolour now so proudly flies?

There is one superb account by, ironically, an English fighter who fought with the Irish against the empire he despised. Joe Good had met Michael Collins in London and, as an avowed opponent of the Great War, had happily followed him to Ireland along with other patriotic British-Irish who fought bravely for the Republic.

Good also had a writer's eye for detail and his bio Inside the GPO, written in 1946 and published in Ireland by OBrien Press, is the closest thing I have read to what it must have been like to be there.

Good was billeted with other fighters in Kimmage when the order came to begin the Rising, They marched to the tramline and their commander paid fifty nine twopenny fares to O'Connell Street. Thus do revolutions begin.

I remember it was bright, warm and sunny," he wrote. We were as cheerful as excursionists to the seaside.

They ended up being sent to Liberty Hall to line up with James Connollys Irish Citizen Army.

He remembers seeing Joseph Mary Plunkett, one of the seven signatories, beautifully dressed with riding boots and spurs, tall and aristocratic with Pince Nez glasses.

Connolly, in contrast, was unsoldierly in appearance, rather pot bellied with bandy legs and disorderly mustache  a working mans hero no doubt.

Patrick Pearse was there too, but Good was too far away to see him as Pearse, Connolly and Plunkett marched in front and the rest followed

They went by a side street, Abbey Street, to attract less attention before emerging onto OConnell Street. At the Post Office they were told A Section-right wheel-left turn--charge.

Thus began the insurrection.

One hundred years later I was delighted to tread the same ground along with hundreds of thousands of Irish citizens, sacred ground now, where the Irish revolution began. Easter Sunday 2016 was a day to remember, and the sun danced.

Joe Goods book is available via Amazon.
Did you know that approximately 300 women took part in the Easter Rising? Apart from Countess Constance Markievicz how many do you know?

Three hundred women participated in Irelands 1916 Easter Rising. Perhaps the best known is Countess Constance Markievicz, who fought for the duration in Stephens Green and who famously advised her fellow female fighters "Dress suitably in short skirts and strong boots, leave your jewels in the bank and buy a revolver."

Then there was Elizabeth OFarrell, the nurse who delivered Padraig Pearses note to surrender to the British forces, whose story has much deservedly been resurrected in the past few years.

Read more Are you called Michael Collins? Cork festival marking centenary of his death needs you

But there are many more extraordinary stories of women who bravely aided and fought in the Rising. From gunrunners to front-line fighters to those charged with rebuilding in the wake of the rebellion, here are a few of their profiles in courage.

On the Front Lines

The role of women in front-line combat is one that's been historically overlooked. Relegated to providers of medical aid and other kinds of support, it's only fairly recently that stories of some pretty incredible women are getting the credit they've long been due. Armed and prepared to die for what they believed in, women like Margaret Skinnider, Winifred Carney and Kathleen Clarke were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice to see Ireland free.

Margaret Skinnider

A Scottish schoolteacher, Margaret Skinnider left her home for Dublin with the intention of joining the fight for Irish freedom. She ended up staying with the Countess Markievicz  as did many rebels who had no other place to stay in the city  and would write one of the most telling passages about the horrible conditions she saw in the poorest sections of Dublin.

She wrote, I do not believe there is a worse street in the world than Ash Street. It lies in a hollow where sewage and refuse falls; it is not paved and is full of holes. One might think that it had been under shell-fire. The fallen houses look like corpses, the others like cripples leaning upon crutches. These houses are symbolic of the downfall of Ireland. They were built by rich Irishmen for their homes. Today they are tenements for the poorest Irish people  the poor among the ruins of grandeur.

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Skinnider was recruited first to infiltrate the Beggar's Bush barracks and to collect valuable reconnaissance for those that would later be tasked with destroying it. Even though she didn't know why the recon was needed at the time, she proved to be so good at what she did that she was taken to meet James Connolly and was trusted not only with acting as an escort to members of his family, but to collect, transport and distribute explosives.

Handling explosives was something she'd done before  she'd made the trip from Scotland to Dublin with some in her hat, staying on the deck of her ferry and away from any heat or electricity that might accidentally detonate them.

During the Easter Rising, she was based out of St. Stephen's Green and tasked with being a bicycle messenger and scout  which meant that she spent much of the time dodging bullets. By Tuesday, she traded being in the cross-hairs of sniper fire for a rifle of her own and set up on the roof of the College of Surgeons to act as the Rising's own sniper  quite successfully. That still wasn't enough, and by the next day, she was an integral part in planning and executing the bombing of Shelbourne Hotel, along with the bombing of houses along Harcourt Street to cut off British access routes to the College.

Skinnider was shot three times during the attempt and spent the next three days in the College and under heavy fire. Eventually returning to Scotland for a short time she, like many other, ultimately ended up heading to America to gain support for the Irish.

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Her fight was far from over on another front, too, and when she applied for a pension in 1925, she was denied in spite of her well-documented military service. It was argued that military service made her a soldier, and only men could be soldiers, so she wasn't eligible. After a legal battle finally ended with her receiving her pension in 1938, it only started to change the way that the role of women in the Rising would be remembered.

Winifred Carney

Originally born in County Down, Winifred Carney and her family moved to Belfast when she was little still a child. She was still living in Belfast years later when James Connolly requested she head to Dublin to join the Easter Rising. She did  armed with two of the most dangerous tools of the trade: her typewriter and a revolver.

Carney was no stranger to the fight for Irish freedom, with the area of Belfast the family settled in long known for its history of rioting and conflict. The Catholic Carney met Connolly in 1912, when he was based out of Belfast and working with the Textile Workers Union (and offered her a secretarial post). She became close friends with his daughter and with his family, and not long after she joined the Citizens Army she became his confidante and personal secretary.

Given the moniker 'The Typist with the Webley', Carney was stationed alongside Connolly in his Easter Rising headquarters at the General Post Office. In charge of writing up orders and dispatches, she would record his last orders after his wounding, and be arrested along with the others sent to Kilmainham. She would spend eight months in jail, but her story certainly didn't end there.

Read more Irish revolutionary Countess Constance Markievicz

Remaining active in political circles, in union debates, and as an anti-treaty protester, Carney was working with the Northern Ireland Labor Party in 1924. There she met  and eventually married  one of the most unlikely men. George McBride was a Protestant and a former soldier for the British, and their marriage meant that they were both abandoned by the people they had fought alongside  on both sides. Outcasts from their respective social circles, they ended up moving to Belfast, joining up with the socialist movement, and remaining happily married until Carney's death 15 years later. Carney was buried in Milltown Cemetery, and because of her marriage, her family refused to put a marker on her grave. One was finally erected by the National Graves Association.

Kathleen Clarke

Born in Limerick in 1878, Kathleen Daly became Kathleen Clarke when she married Nationalist Thomas Clarke, not long after he had been released from prison for his insurgent activities. After spending some time in New York they returned to Dublin in 1907 to join the front lines of the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB). The Clarkes set up a tobacconist shop, which became a front for IRB meetings and for the planning of the Easter Rising. In 1914, she was one of a dozen founding members of Cumann na mBan, and within only a handful of months, their numbers had risen into the hundreds. Disagreements on whether or not to follow through with the plans for the Easter Rising split the organization (and the Irish Volunteers) with Clarke and her husband firmly on the side of a rebellion.

From the start, contingency plans were put in place should the Easter Rising fail  and Kathleen Clarke was an integral part of those back-up plans. Should the IRB fall, it was going to be up to her to rebuild  and she did. Her brother and husband were both among those arrested and ultimately executed for their part in the Rising, and afterward, Kathleen joined forces with Michael Collins to reestablish the IRB and become one of the driving forces behind Sinn Fein.

With the secrecy of the utmost importance, there were only a handful of people entrusted with all the information that would be needed to rebuild should all the leaders of the IRB be captured, killed or executed  she was one such person. Because of the information she had, she wasn't allowed to take part in the fighting but was still arrested because of her connections with the IRB. Visiting her husband one last time in jail before his execution, she didn't tell him that she was pregnant  she would tragically lose the baby not long after.

But Clarke had been tasked with rebuilding, and by 1917 she was a member of Sinn Fein's Executive Committee. She would also establish the Irish Volunteers' Dependents' Fund, which provided financial support to the widows and children left behind after the Easter Rising.

Clarke was also behind the tricolor ribbon campaign; while World War I saw many people wearing Union Jack ribbons, she created a surge of Irish pride with the replacement of the British flag on the jackets of the people.

The Women Who Armed the Nation and Changed History

There's no doubt that the events of Easter Week in 1916 changed Irish history forever. Soldiers and civilians alike picked up their weapons as men, women, and children showed that they were willing to give their lives for Irish freedom. One of the biggest challenges wasn't just finding people willing to fight, but arming them  and that task fell to a handful of people that were risking their lives before the first shot was even fired.

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Helena Molony

By the time of the Easter Rising, Helena Molony was already a well-known actress who took her politics to the stage. A part of the Abbey Theatre, she was an incredibly outspoken proponent of Nationalist ideals, putting them on the stage where she could reach countless people. Stuck in France at the beginning of World War I, and her involvement with the Abbey Theatre earned her another gig  helping with the organization of the theater troop into a military division of the Irish Citizen Army, all at the request of James Connolly.

Her work in the theater meant that she was pretty much expected to travel all across Europe, and when it came to weapons smuggling, that was a huge bonus. In the first days of 1916, the rebels were concentrating on arming their men (and women). Molony was instrumental in that, even being sent to London on a trip to requisition some firearms. Those guns were simply carried in her suitcase, which they hoped wouldn't be searched by British officials who would have no reason to suspect a theater actress was a gun runner. Not only was she not searched, but a polite British Army recruit was kind enough to carry her bags to the ferry for her.

The days leading up to the Rising were filled with cooking and other prep work, but when the time came, Molony donned a rather smart tweed outfit (likely from a theater costume department), then grabbed a gun and joined the group that stormed Dublin Castle. The assault failed  because of nothing more than a split-second hesitation, which she would later say was the instant that the armed volunteers truly realized what they were in the middle of doing  but Molony and her contingent retreated to City Hall, which she soon left to run for reinforcements. When she returned their commander, Sean Connolly, was killed by sniper fire, and the group remained under fire throughout the night. As British troops advanced on the tenuous stronghold, and the mostly unarmed group surrendered, the prisoners were dealt with amidst the assumption that the women were only present as nurses and medical support, not as the front-line combatants that they were. Ultimately, they were eventually transferred to Kilmainham.

Released in December of 1916, Molony continued to travel, recruit, and continued to be targeted by those that didn't agree with her. A part of the Trades and Labour Council into the 1960s, she remained a stalwart campaigner for trade unions and the rights of workers, and for the equal treatment of women in the new Ireland.

Molly Osgood

The events of Easter week, 1916 would change Irish history forever, but not all monumental events happened in those few days. The fight for Irish freedom had started months earlier, and without the crew of the Asgard, the rebels would have had only a relative handful of guns to arm themselves with.

The ship was designed by one of Europe's finest naval architects, and it was commissioned as a wedding gift for the daughter of Boston physician (and developer of rabies antibodies) Dr. Hamilton Osgood. Molly Osgood was marrying a somewhat eccentric writer  and nationalist  named Erskine Childers. Childers, son of an English father and an Irish mother, was English-educated and fought in the Boer Wars, years that shaped his opinion of British imperialism forever afterward.

His young wife, Molly, (who walked with two canes after a childhood incident left her with broken hips), shared his love of the sea. They settled in London but spent considerable time on the ocean, throwing their support in with the Irish Volunteers by 1913  ten years after Erskine became a household name with the release of his spy thriller The Riddle of the Sands and after he toured southern Ireland. That tour saw him come to the realization that some of the same problems he'd already seen with British colonialism were happening in Ireland, too  and something needed to be done.

By 1914, they were at the head of a small group that was financing the purchase of 1,500 Mauser rifles and 49,000 rounds of ammunition from the German-based company Moritz Magnus der Jungere, to be delivered into the hands of the rebels that would make their mark on history that Easter week.

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The British government had been on the lookout for just such a shipment, knowing that it was bound to come in response to the 35,000 rifles that had just been moved into Ulster. The Childers spread the rumor that guns were going to be moved into Ireland on fishing trawlers, and while the British scrambled to intercept these innocent ships, the Childers set out from the Welsh coast. Their crew included Mary Spring Rice and another ship, Kelpie, with Conor O'Brien and sister Kitty manning the helm.

Nine days after they disembarked, they met up with the German tug Gladiator, well into Belgian waters. There were so many crates that it took five hours to transfer the cargo, and dodging storms on the way back, Kelpie and Asgard docked at Howth Harbour soon after  where hundreds of members of the Irish Volunteers were waiting, including founder Michael O'Rahilly. Phone lines and communications had already been severed, lookouts were scattered throughout the area in strategic locations, and the guns were passed into the hands of the rebels.

When news of the landing and the distribution of guns reached British ears, police were dispatched. As the newly armed volunteers disappeared, civilians threw rotten fruit at the police force  who opened fire in a skirmish that became known as the Bachelor's Walk Massacre. All told, the trip to arm the Volunteers had taken about three weeks, and was detailed by Mary Spring Rice in logs and diaries that describe the perilous journey from start to finish.

Erskine Childers would ultimately suffer much the same fate as many of the leaders of the Easter Rising, but not for several years. In 1922, he was arrested and charged over the possession of a gun, which had been given to him by Michael Collins. Even though he was offered a reprieve if he re-thought where he loyalties lay, he refused and was executed on November 24, 1922.

Do you know any other stories of extraordinary women who fought in the 1916 Easter Rising? Let us know in the comment section, below.

H/T Stories from 1916, RichmondBarracks.ie, Easter1916.ie, RTE

---

Originally from Attica, NY Debra Kelly is a freelance writer and journalist who has seen most of the U.S. during her travels. Ready for something new, she's now living in the wild hills of Connemara with her husband and plenty of animals. She is a frequent contributor to Urban Ghosts, Listverse and Knowledgenuts.

* Originally published in 2016, updated in 2022.
By Fiachra O Cionnaith, Political Reporter

Senior Government ministers will attend wreath laying memorial events at key Easter Rising sites this afternoon to mark the first shots fired in the rebellion 100 years ago.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald, Defence Minister Simon Coveney, Health Minister Leo Varadkar, Jobs Minister Richard Bruton, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan, Environment Minister Alan Kelly, Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys and Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe will attend the synchronised events at precisely 1.15pm this afternoon - the exact time the violence which engulfed 1916 began.

In Dublin, where one of the events will also be attended by President Michael D Higgins, senior Government ministers will honour all of those who died or were involved in the rising at seven locations across the city.

They include:

- The Four Courts, where Ms Fitzgerald and chief justice Susan Denham will take part in a ceremony to remember what happened at the scene, which saw some of the most intense fighting 100 years ago.

- Jacob's Biscuit Factory, now the location of the national archives and DIT Aungier Street, where Mr Kelly will lay a wreath on behalf of those who fought in na Fianna Eireann and Cumann na mBan, before ex-national archives chairman justice Peter Charlton gives a short reading.

- Boland's Mill and Bakery, which saw intense fighting throughout Easter week 1916, where Mr Donohoe will remember the dead and commemorations advisory group chair Maurice Manning will give a short reading.

- The South Dublin Union, now on the grounds of St James's Hospital, where Mr Bruton will lay a wreath and Prof Davis Coakley will give a short reading.

- City Hall on Cork Hill in Dublin, where the events at the location and Dublin Castle - which saw the first shots of the rebellion occur as Sean Connolly and his colleagues marched - where Mr Flanagan and Dublin lord mayor Cllr Criona Ni Dhalaigh will attend.

- St Stephen's Green and the RCSI, where Mr Varadkar and RCSI president Declan J Magee will honour Irish Citizens Army members who dug trenches at the scene.

- Moore Street, the site of the provisional government of Ireland after the retreat from the GPO and where the surrender orders were issued, where Ms Humphreys will lay a wreath on behalf of Government and commandant Padraic Kennedy will give a short reading.

A @defenceforces piper finishes playing a lament on Moore Street ahead of the wreath laying ceremony. #Ireland2016 pic.twitter.com/NUF6vXxUgn  DublinTown (@DublinTown) March 28, 2016

Other events have already taken place across the country this morning, including Mr Coveney attending a proclamation reading at the Grand Parade in Cork City.

Education Minister Jan O' Sullivan attended an event in Athenry.

Large crowd in attendance State Ceremonial Event Athenry #gaillimh2016 #Ireland2016 pic.twitter.com/fOpevnSO4U  Galway County Council (@GalwayCoCo) March 28, 2016

Outgoing Children's Minister James Reilly took part in a separate commemoration in Ashbourne, while other events occurred in Enniscorthy and other locations.

This afternoon at 3pm, President Michael D Higgins will also give a detailed speech at an RTE event in the Mansion House.

He is expected to again call for Ireland to take the commemoration's opportunity to redouble efforts to build a more inclusive Republic.
BEER production remains an important sector within the Irish drinks industry in terms of indigenous manufacturing and the provision of jobs.

It accounts for about half the market, directly employs around 2,500 people, and exports more than 40% of its production.

Exports last year increased by over 10% to around 265m as stronger trade to Britain, other European Union markets and the United States is helping to boost trade.

The craft beer sector in Ireland continues to be a success story, making up an estimated 1.2% of the market, with 40% of microbreweries exporting.

That represents a small portion of the overall Irish beverage exports to 130 markets worldwide last year. However, it highlights a huge potential for growth.

The craft beer industry alone is worth an estimated $12.5bn in annual sales in the United States. New York and Boston, cities with large numbers of people with Irish ancestry and many Irish pubs, are obvious marketing targets.

A number of Irish brewers are already exporting to the US. Some are focusing on on-trade channels while others are connecting with craft breweries and creating partnerships that are potentially beneficial to both sides.

With beer consumption in Ireland now approaching the average level of most northern European countries, the Irish Brewers Association is working to ensure that people are aware of their industrys contribution to social and economic life.

Over 60 microbreweries now operate in Ireland with 22 of them having started in the past two years. The number is expected to exceed 100 by 2020.

The value added by the overall beer sector to the economy was 1.72bn in 2014. It spends 400m purchasing goods and services including transport and agricultural products.

It raised some 425m in excise receipts. The beer- related contribution to employment represents 44,741 jobs.

A new report by Europe Economics, The Contribution made by Beer to the European Economy commissioned by the Brewers of Europe, found that brewing companies in Ireland are responding to the opportunities and challenges they are facing by increasing investment, particularly in product development.

The report says production fell slightly between 2013 and 2014, which it says reflects conditions in international markets.

It also says that the industry exported 2.8 million hectolitres of beer in 2014, and that 64% of beer in Ireland is consumed in the on-trade, meaning in restaurants and pubs.

The report also found the total beer-related contribution to government revenues increased from 2013 to 2014, with increases in excise duties and on-trade and off-trade Vat, in particular.

Jonathan McDade, the head of the Irish Brewers Association, said the Irish beer industry is experiencing an exciting period of development.

As the report states, investment in product development is also up. These trends reflect an increasingly diverse beer sector, with more high-quality Irish beer products for consumers at home and abroad, he said.

This is having a knock on effect on employment, up by around 370 between 2013 and 2014 to almost 44,800 jobs, he said.

Seamus OHara, managing director, Carlow Brewing Company (OHaras Craft Beers), is the new chairman of the Irish Brewers Association, the representative industry group for brewers and beer distributors.

He grew up in Bagenalstown, Co Carlow. After completing a masters degree in biotechnology at UCD, he moved to Britain, where he worked in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors with firms such as AstraZenca and Glaxo Smith Kline.

It was during this time that he was first exposed to the diversity and flavours of craft beers. In 1991, he moved back to Ireland, where he took up a position with Enterprise Ireland and 10 years later he left to co-found a new venture-capital firm, Seroba-Kernel.

In 1996, he and his brother Eamon set up Carlow Brewing Company on a small-scale part-time basis. In 2011, Seamus made the decision to move full-time into brewing.

The companys website says there has never been a more exciting time to be part of the craft beer scene in Ireland.

Craft beer consumers are becoming more numerous, confident and adventurous than ever before leading to demand for a wide variety of flavours and styles.

Pubs and off-licenses are playing their part too and many now stock a broad range of Irish craft beer to meet customer demand, it says.

Half of everything that the Carlow brewery produces is exported to more than 25 countries, including the US, France, Italy, Russia, Norway and Croatia.

Mr OHara, one of the craft brewing industrys most recognisable pioneers, told the recent Teagasc National Malting Barely Growers Association conference that the sector is a growing business.

The craft beer products are still relatively small at 1.5% to 2% of the overall beer market in Ireland but with the right momentum there is a potential to grow this to 10%. It is a great honour to be entrusted with the role of chairperson of the Irish Brewers Association, particularly as the Carlow Brewing Company celebrates its 20 year anniversary this year.

The Irish Brewers Association, has represented the interest of brewers in Ireland since 1908. Since then the industry has changed drastically and in 2016 we continue to experience exciting developments, with new breweries opening across the country and established players expanding and investing, he said.

Mr OHara said the number of microbreweries operating here has more than trebled since 2012. Consumers have never had more choice. His appointment association chairman was another acknowledgement of the importance of the craft sector to the wider brewing industry.

I hope that I can use my experience in developing a small but successful brewery within a fledgling industry to guide the Irish Brewers Association over the next two years, he said.
Starwood, which employs 500 staff at its customer service hub in Cork, received permission from the US Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control for its plan to manage and market three iconic Havana hotels.

The properties include Hotel Santa Isabel, one of the citys grandest hotels on Plaza de Armas, and Hotel Inglaterra, a 19th-century colonial structure on Central Park in Old Havana, both of which will join Starwoods Luxury Collection.

Hotel Quinta Avenida, in the central Miramar area, will become a Four Points by Sheraton property.

Starwood is very strong in Latin America, said Jorge Giannattasio, head of Starwoods Latin American operations. The amount of travellers to Cuba will skyrocket with direct flights. When no one thought it was possible, we made the right argument and got the licence.

The company plans to make a multimillion-dollar investment to bring the hotels up to our standards.

International visitors to Cuba rose 17% to a record 3.5 million in 2015, including a 77% increase in American tourists to 161,000.

Numbers are expected to rise even further this year with the start of up to 110 commercial flights a day from the United States, resulting from the loosening of the decades-old trade embargo between the two countries. A wave of commercial deals between Cuban and US firms are expected over the coming months, as American businesses eagerly eye opportunities on the island nation located just 90 miles south of the Florida Keys.

Starwood began operations in Cork in 1994, originally established as ITT Sheraton and creating 40 jobs.

The operation now employs over 500 at its city centre location with a remit to support the Europe, Africa and the Middle East (EAME) operating division across all levels of customer care throughout its 1,270 hotels.

While our core business is managing direct interaction with the guests and customers on behalf of Starwood, over the years we have built up new skill sets that support web development, corporate training, rate and system support for hotels, business analytics and marketing, says Caroline Cooney-Hurrell, vice president Customer Contact Centre, EAME.

One of the things that makes us special is a strong culture of self-development, with everyone from the VP of operations on down having started their career on the phones, interacting with our guests. Hospitality is in our DNA.

We are conscious that we represent our hotels and are an extension of our brands, regardless of what role we have in the company.

On January 25, Starwood launched its first remote hub operation at Sneem in Kerry, having sourced German, French and Dutch speakers to fill operational roles.

We are hoping that this opens up a new talent pool for us in a very competitive skills market and we were delighted to come across talented individuals who not only speak very much in-demand languages but also have great customer service skills.

In a further development that may also indirectly impact on Irish jobs in the future, community-driven hospitality company Airbnb has announced plans to make its Cuba home and apartment rentals available to all international travellers. The company, which employs more than 500 people at its Dublin HQ, launched in Cuba last April, and has since grown to 4,000 accommodation listings across 40 cities and towns on the island.

It became the fast-growing Airbnb market in the world in 2015 following the Cuban government allowing residents to rent out their homes by joining a network of casas particulares, similar to bed and breakfasts.

It was something that was already familiar to the culture with tens of thousands of Cubans already sharing their homes and so we felt like it wasnt that big of a risk. All we had to do was make sure the community embraced Airbnb, said Airbnb founder Brian Chesky. The average Airbnb booking in Cuba during 2015 yielded $250 in earnings for the host  a significant extra income in that country.

Yet another area of rich potential for global investment  in which one Irish company will be very prominent  is Cubas poor internet access, available to less than 5% of the population, and hampered by expensive and outdated dial-up access with few wi-fi spots. The islands entrepreneurs will soon be able to avail of Stripe Atlas  a business in a box solution allowing Cubans incorporate a business, open bank accounts and receive payments from around the world. An arm of Stripe, the Silicon Valley-based company owned by Limerick brothers Patrick and John Collison, Atlas was announced at the recent Mobile World Congress.

You cant incorporate a business in Cuba, and getting paid for digital goods is virtually impossible, said Patrick Collison, who travelled to Cuba as part of the US delegation. Name-checked by US president Obama in one of his speeches last week, Stripe is establishing itself on the ground floor of the Caribbean islands fledgling business boom.

When the White House reached out to us about the role Stripe might play in this process, we jumped at the idea. As of today, Stripe Atlas will be available to entrepreneurs in one of the only countries it didnt previously serve: Cuba. With Atlas, we aim to offer best-in-class tools to founders no matter where theyre based  from Cambodia to Cuba, Collison said. Since we announced Atlas, businesses from more than 185 countries have already applied for access. Were excited to make that 186.

From Irish-based multinationals to one spectacular US startup, John Daly says Cuba now provides the Irish with many opportunities
AIMING to make waves in the world of skateboarding, a small start-up company in the seaside village of Ballybunion has created an eco-friendly skateboard out of bamboo and hemp.

We have developed the worlds first all grass, sustainable, high-performance skateboard says Grasshopper Skateboard founderd Barry Liston explaining that the 95% of skateboards are made from maple and that skateboard manufacturing is the number one global cause of maple deforestation.

Since setting up Irelands first skateboard manufacturing operation in 2014, Mr Liston has taken on one full time and two part-time employees and developed sales to seven retail outlets in Ireland and one distributor in the UK.

Hes preparing to launch a new Grasshopper Skateboards website in April and to develop sales in the UK while also discussing the possibility of a partnership arrangement with a US company.

A skateboarder with a degree in furniture technology and design, Mr Liston came up with the idea of a sustainable skateboard when asked to develop a solution to a problem while doing a Masters degree at Edinburgh University in 2012.

Encouraged by the response to his environmentally friendly skateboard, he signed up for the New Frontiers start-up programme in Tralee in 2014 and set up operations at a small retrofitted joinery close to the beach in Ballybunion.

Having created a full range, which includes short-board street skateboards, long boards and mini cruisers, Mr Liston entered and won the Kerry Best New Startup award in the Irelands Best Young Entrepreneur competition in October 2014 netting prize money of 20,000.

Selling first to Surf and Sail in Tralee, Grasshopper got a significant sales boost from an appearance on the Late Late Show Enterprise and Innovation Showcase in January last year. Securing 50,000 in Competitive Start funding from Enterprise Ireland in the summer helped with development.

Participating in the Access Silicone Valley programme in the US in October gave Mr Liston an opportunity to visit skateboard manufacturers and gain valuable insight into the worlds largest skateboard market.

I travelled from San Francisco to San Diego and had meetings with three of the worlds top five skateboard companies, he says. No other company is doing a grass skateboard  it qualifies as grass if it grows back when it is cut down, he adds.

Already using social media to publicise his company, Mr Liston is now preparing to launch an e-commerce website in April which will include customizable boards. Grasshopper now offers full skateboards costing between 90 and 260 but Mr Liston expects the biggest seller to be decks  parts of the skateboard which have to be replaced regularly, which the company offers for a cost of between 50 and 150.

The goal is to sell to all the main skateboard retailers in Ireland and the UK by 2017. For this, the company needs funding and will be launching a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter later in the year.

The world-wide skateboard market is worth 4.8bn and is growing  it is estimated that there are now 40m skateboard users. The largest market in Europe is Germany, followed by the UK and Spain.

He says the advantages of Grasshopper boards go beyond being environmentally friendly  they are 20% stronger, 10% lighter and 9% more flexible.

Being lighter gets users higher off the ground and being more flexible gives them a better pop for spins, tricks and flips.

In the future, the company plans to develop a wide range of sustainable products, including surfboards and wakeboards, as well as skis and hurleys.

It is currently working on a new version of the Grasshopper skateboard in preparation for a launch in six months.

Name: Grasshopper Skateboards

Location: Ballybunion, Co Kerry

Set up: 2014

Founder: Barry Liston. Staff: Two

Website: www.grasshopperskateboards.com
In their submissions to the EU Council of Ministers meeting, some were looking for mandatory, EU-wide measures, as they felt that the countries which should reduce output are those that have expanded (including Ireland).

The French government had put forward a detailed submission which proposed either mandatory or voluntary approaches based on Article 222.

However, with the decision to abolish milk quotas made in 2003, and reaffirmed in 2008, EU-wide mandatory measures could be politically and even legally problematic.

Focusing on Article 222 measures was, therefore, the compromise that was accepted by the EUs Agriculture Council.

EU Regulation 1308/2013 of the CAP legislation deals with market supports and management  the Common Market Organisation (CMO).

Article 222 of the CMO provides that, when markets for an agricultural product are severely imbalanced, and the EU has already used public intervention or private storage, the EU Commission may permit some derogation from competition rules to allow producer organisations and their associations agree measures to reduce output voluntarily to help stabilise the sector.

For the EU Commission to allow the use of the article, any measure must be temporary, for an initial six-month period, renewable once with Commission permission, and is subject to being found not to undermine the proper functioning of the internal market i.e. subject to approval by DG Competition.

This was formally proposed by the French government at the last EU Agriculture Council on March 14, and agreed.

Can you use production management to rebalance markets and increase milk prices?

It is easy to understand how one might influence prices by simply reducing supplies on a completely closed market. However, the European Union market for dairy products is not immune to global geopolitical, economic and demand events, especially for those countries, like Ireland, which export ingredients and commodities.

But domestic consumer markets are affected too: EU retailers regularly use GDT results and global trends for leverage in their negotiations with local dairy suppliers.

So, if the EUs response to the current crisis is to shrink EU supplies, a number of issues arise.

Competitors in other countries  the US, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Brazil, India, etc  are not bound by EU decisions, and can equally over produce and cause price pressures EU producers will not be protected from.

Also, when markets recover, dairy companies in these countries can and will take market share from EU exporters.

In a cyclical market, reducing EU output with every crisis could only destroy the EUs competitive, commercial export oriented dairy sector. What of demand factors? Will a shrinking EU dairy sector ever be protected from global trends as trade barriers fall? Last but not least  what of EU farmers who have invested in the legal certainty of the end of quotas to grow their enterprises and supply a long term growing global demand?

Mandatory production management must be resisted

As unilateral EU production restrictions wont work in a global market, the next EU dairy policy debate may well be whether the voluntary measures should become mandatory. Mandatory measures would not work any better while we are exposed to global markets, but they would be incredibly retrograde and damaging for the competitiveness of the EU dairy sector, especially the Irish sector.

If production management is not the solution, what is?

For the dairy sector to be sustainable in its expansion project, farmers need to make a viable income year-in, year-out. Global demand for dairy will continue to rise, so despite the current slump, the long-term outlook remains positive. However, the market growth will not be linear and the prices will be volatile.

At present, too much of the increasing market risk falls back to farmers. They need to secure their share in the chain, with access to more tools to combat the effects of volatility.

Taxation options to manage volatile incomes, flexible, well-priced short and long-term finance, hedging, fixed price / margin contracts, margin insurance systems, etc  this is what national stakeholders and EU politicians must focus on facilitating.
Thirty-one choirs from 19 counties in Ireland took to the stage in the courtyard of the National Museum to commemorate the centenary of the Easter Rising in front of President Michael D Higgins and acting Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

The President and Mr Kenny entered the barracks in separate motorcades but to very different welcomes. The acting Taoiseach waved to the queuing crowd but few hands rose up in return. When President Higgins came along with his wife Sabina the crowd cheered and waved at their arrival.

RTE broadcaster Miriam OCallaghan was the master of ceremonies. She too got a presidential welcome when she walked out on to the windswept stage. The crowd whooped and whistled as she introduced the event.

The rafters of the makeshift marquee shook as the gale force winds blew through the stage and the rain pelted down before a single voice had begun to sing. Accompanied by the RTE Symphony Orchestra, Handels Hallelujah Chorus was the first performance by the 1,100 voices from around Ireland.

The City of Cork Male Voice Choir, the Cork City Sings! In 2016 and the Lismore Choir were just some of the groups that came together to create A Nations Voice.

Speakers and lights rocked from side to side as the wind whipped around the courtyard but the voices overpowered the elements.

The strength of the orchestra also overpowered the Irish elements as the musicians outplayed the wind with Sean ORiadas Mise Eire and excerpts from Bill Whelans The Connemara Suite. Helena Wood on violin and Zoe Conway on fiddle mesmerised the soaked crowd with their solo performances, every face was lit up in a smile as they applauded the musicians.

The choirs and orchestra performed a world premiere of Shaun Daveys One Hundred Years a Nation, which was specially created for the commemoration. President Higgins described it as a national event and a community event.

As 2016 unfolds, I am quite certain that our artists, in every creative discipline, will give us moments that will stir our collective imagination and make the centenary a wonderful, shared, unifying year for all the people of this island.
Caretaker Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Tanaiste Joan Burton, defence minister Simon Coveney and justice minister Frances Fitzgerald stood side by side with Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Sinn Feins Martin McGuinness as the lives of the 14 men who died were honoured.

In a key commemoration event at the historic location, the Irish flag was lowered to half mast in front of Defence Forces personnel and relatives of those who died, before Mr Kenny and President Higgins laid wreaths on the same wall where the men were executed between May 3 and 12, 1916.

After a minutes silence was observed, the Pipers Lament and the Last Post were played, before Army captain Glen Harmon held a shining sword aloft to indicate the national anthem was to be played.

The event was one of a number of memorial services to take place yesterday, including a remembrance service at Glasnevin cemetery for the national anthems composer Peadar Kearney and the creator of the tricolour Edward Hollywood. Heritage minister Heather Humphreys told the crowd of delegates  which included British ambassador Dominick Chilcott, French ambassador Jean Pierre Thebault, and outgoing junior justice minister Aodhan O Riordain? the scenes recognised their revolutionary spirit.

Mr Kearneys great grandson Dualta O Broinn sang Amhran na Bhfiann, before saying his predecessor would have been chuffed to bits at the scenes as he had died in poverty and is rarely remembered publicly.

The memorial services came amid a number of separate speeches by politicians to mark 1916.

President Michael D Higgins began the commemorations weekend by urging the current generation to take responsibility for building a true Republic, telling 3,500 Rising relatives in the RDS on Saturday night that Ireland has yet to achieve the dreams and ideals for which participants gave their lives.

The head of state said it is vital that the inspirational participants are remembered not as abstract or mythical figures but as ordinary citizens who sought to make a difference.

However, noting the deep institutional conservatism which took hold in the decades after the Rising  an issue he said was because Padraig Pearse and James Connolly had been executed and so could not influence the 1922 Constitution  and the ongoing problems in the country, Mr Higgins said in many respects we have not fully achieved the dreams and ideals for which our forebears gave so much.

In a statement Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the public should reflect on how far the country has come.

National flag is hoisted to full mast above the GPO. Amhran na bhFiann plays. #rte1916https://t.co/FMl8j3lR7d  RTE News (@rtenews) March 27, 2016

What was achieved in Easter week 100 years ago was not some traditional throwback as some of those who continue to misrepresent this event would have us believe, he said.

Speaking at the Milltown cemetery commemoration in Belfast, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said sectarianism and division must be tackled if the vision of 1916 is to be realised.
Monday March 27, 1916

ECONOMIC CONFERENCES UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, CORK.

A MINIMUM WAGE.

The ninth of the Economic Conferences organised by Professor Smiddy and Mr Alfred Rahilly, MA, was held in the Examination Hall of University College, Cork. Mr Rahilly called on Professor Smiddy to deliver his lecture on a Minimum Wage.

Professor Smiddy prefaced his remarks by explaining the ambiguities of the expression, minimum wage. It usually means in popular discussion a living wage, a wage that would enable a worker of average industry and prudence to support a normal family in decent and frugal comfort. It also means a wage based on what the trade would bear  not necessarily a living wage... All Christian writers are agreed that the worker should get a living wage. ...But whether it can be achieved suddenly, without bringing evils in its train greater than those it set out to cure is the problem that we must examine.

Tuesday March 28, 191

KERRY SEDUCTION ACTION 200 DAMAGES.

(From our Correspondent.) Dublin, Monday.

Mr Lorcan Sherlock, LLD, Acting High Sheriff, and a city jury, heard an action brought by John McGrath, farmer, of Ardfert, Co. Kerry, a member of the Tralee District Council, against Henry Horan, the son of a neighbouring farmer, for the seduction of plaintiffs daughter, Ellen McGrath, by the defendant. The plaintiff claimed 1,000 damages. There was no defence to the action and the case came before the Sheriff for the assessment of damages. Mr A. E. Clery... for the plaintiff...stated that the seduction took place in 1913, when plaintiffs daughter was just over 16, and defendant was aged 24 1/2 years. Defendant married another girl early this year, and she brought him a substantial dowry, stated to be about 500. The writ was served on the day after the marriage. The jury assessed damages for 200.

Wednesday, March 29, 1916

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

DUMB FRIENDS LEAGUE.

Sir, Now that licence time for dogs has come round again, it means terrible cruelty for these poor animals whose owners are in some cases unable to pay for them, but in a far greater number, those who get tired of them and turn them out in the streets to starve. Our Dumb Friends League has a Dogs Home in the city, where dogs can be kept for a small amount, and unwanted dogs destroyed in Lethal Chamber at a very small cost. I appeal to all who have unwanted dogs not to turn them out to starve, but to have them destroyed in a perfectly painless manner. All particulars and enquiries at 14, Georges Quay.

E. A. H. WEBB, Hon. Sec., Our Dumb Friends League, Cork Branch.

Thursday March 30, 1916

YOUTHFUL MUSICIANS

(Photo by W.B. ODonovan, Bruff) - Gwyneth, Hannah, and Joyce OLeary, aged 11, 12 and 14 years, daughters of Mr D.J. OLeary, Manager, Munster and Leinster Bank, Bruff. In the Local, Practical Examinations in Ireland under the Incorporated Society of Musicians, held May, 1915, each obtained a Prize and a Certificate with Honours for 93 per-cent, of proficiency in the Preparatory and No. 1 and No. 2 grades, respectively. The results were published this month. They are being educated at St. Marys Convent, Bruff.
A member of the Irish Volunteers was charged in Tullamore with attempted murder of Royal Irish Constabulary, but was later discharged on technical grounds. Sergeant Ahern who was injured in the affray at the Volunteers Hall, Tullamore the previous week was reported to be progressing satisfactorily.

Headquarters of Irish Volunteers in Dublin were the venue for meetings of JJ OConnell (HQ staff), Terence MacSwiney (vice-commandant Cork Brigade), Herbert Mellows, Patrick Hughes and Patrick Ryan. As well as MacSwiney, Dublin police monitored the movements of Sean MacDiarmada (IRB Military Council member, involved in impending rebellion), and Michael Joseph ORahilly (Irish Volunteers figure, opposed to a Rising).

Following the recent seizure of seditious publications in Dublin the week before, police seizures of Sinn Fein publications from several newsagents in Tipperary were reported. The Dublin Metropolitan Police (DMP) had tried to shut down some of the mosquito press by seizing their printing plant the previous week.

Reports emerged of weekend arrests of regional Irish Volunteers organisers Liam Mellows (in Athenry, Co Galway) and Ernest Blythe (in Athea, Co Limerick). They were ordered to leave Ireland. Mellows was helped get back from Birmingham by Cumann na mBan member Bridget Foley - later a courier for MacDiarmada to Cork during Easter Week  in time to lead Volunteers in Galway during the Rising.

Some time at the end of March, IRB Military Council member Joseph Plunketts home  Larkfield in Kimmage  was surrounded by military and police. The house, a regular meeting place for those planning the Rising, was barricaded by those inside but the Crown Forces left a few hours later.

Patrick Pearse (IRB Military Council member) was at Irish Volunteers HQ, as were co-conspirators Thomas MacDonagh  also on the Military Council  and Supreme Council member Diarmuid Lynch who was aware of the plans to land German guns in Kerry at Easter.

MacDonagh and Lynch visited the shop of Tom Clarke, the veteran Fenian on the Military Council. Clarke was there on the day, but also met at 12 DOlier Street with William OLeary Curtis, according to DMP

Although not there himself, Tom Clarkes shop was visited by his brother-in-law Ned Daly (later also executed as commandant of the Irish Volunteers in the Rising), Con Colbert (also executed after the Rising, Piaras Beaslai, and Sean McGarry.

MacDiarmada, Pearse, MacDonagh and Eamonn Ceannt (Military Council member) attended meetings at Irish Volunteers head office in DAwson Street, Dublin. Also there, who would not survive the Rising or execution were ORahilly and Michael OHanrahan.

John OHanrahan and Charles D Somers had command of more than 50 Volunteers who marched from Parnell Square.

A public meeting at the Mansion House protested against Irish men being deported.

Three rifles were reported stolen from the assembly rooms in Blackrock Town Hall in Dublin, which were used at the time by the local company of the National Volunteers.

An Irish Volunteers route march in Dublin, scheduled for the coming Sunday, was postponed.

MacDiarmada, Sean T OKelly and TJ Sheehan visited Clarkes shop in Parnell St.

Irish Volunteers chief-of-staff Eoin MacNeill issued orders cancelling all orders not endorsed by himself or Bulmer Hobson (who opposed a Rising being staged). He also appointed Hobson in command of the Volunteers in Dublin, and gave command of the southern area to JJ OConnell.

A car carrying arms and ammunition was seized by the DMP in College Green.

Digitised copies of the Dublin Metropolitan Police Movement of Extremists files for the corresponding dates in 1916 are uploaded regularly to the National Archives of Ireland website  www.nationalarchives.ie (@narireland).

Read some events from the period at the Military Archives timeline, and witness statements from the Rising  www.militaryarchives.ie (Twitter @dfarchives).

Among the other sources used in this diary are monthly reports of the RIC inspector general and county inspectors, viewed in UCCs Boole Librarys Special Collections department (@theriversideUCC).
The first-ever study on lobbying at government offices in Brussels has revealed the majority of contacts with senior Irish diplomats is with corporate lobbyists.

Over a recent 12-month period, the two most senior members of Irelands permanent representation to the EU listed 123 meetings with large multinational firms, lobbyists, representative bodies and journalists.

The research by the Alliance for Lobbying Transparency and Ethics Regulation (Alter-EU) into the level of lobbying with the high-powered permanent representation of the 28 EU member states showed Irelands head of mission, Declan Kelleher and the deputy permanent representative, Tom Hanney, met with senior executives of many large firms including Amazon, Bank of Ireland Deutsche Bank, Google, Morgan Stanley, Ryanair, Shell, Uber, and Zurich Insurance during 2015. They also met representative groups including IBEC, the Irish Offshore Operators Association and the American Chamber of Commerce to the EU.

Alter-EU claim non-governmental organisations had considerably less access to permanent representations than corporate lobbyists.

The dominance of corporate interests in interactions with the Irish permanent representation is clear and raises questions over the ability to ensure balanced input into EU decision-making, the report stated.

Ireland was praised as one of only four of 17 EU member states along with Romania, the Netherlands and Poland which provided the requested information, despite the fact that all EU countries with the exception of Cyprus have some type of freedom of information legislation.

However, the Irish government limited the disclosure of information to the work diaries of its two most senior officials in Brussels rather than a list of lobby meetings held by all staff.

Ibec, the employers representative body, had the most meetings with Irish officials in Brussels  a total of seven. Three meetings each were held with representatives of Google and Teneo Holdings, a US-based global advisory firm headed up by Declan Kelly, whose brother, Alan is acting environment minister.

Bank of Ireland, Morgan Stanley, VIP Electronic Cigarettes, and the American Chamber of Commerce each held two meetings.

Alter-EU said the report showed lobbyists are able to exploit a loophole in EU transparency rules which enables them to lobby permanent representations of EU member states in Brussels without being registered. At least one in five meetings was with companies and organisations not listed on the current EU register of lobbyists. In addition, any party which is based outside Ireland and only lobbies the governments permanent representation in Brussels is not obliged to register with the register of lobbyists introduced in Ireland last year.

The Alter-EU report also highlighted a lack of record-keeping about lobbying meetings. When asked about its meetings with the International Emissions Trading Association and the Irish Offshore Operators Association, the Irish permanent representation said it had not kept any minutes.

A lack of record keeping means it is difficult for citizens to follow the influence of private interests in decision-making, it said.
Philip Scott, from Midleton, Co Cork, a former captain of Dolphin Rugby Club, was left with reduced vision, loss of movement in his right arm and leg, temporary memory loss, and an inability to speak or understand language in the wake of the stroke last January.

He was not expected to survive but defied the odds and made an unlikely return to his family in Midleton late last year after spending six months at Cork University Hospital and four months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dublin.
Tens of thousands of people patiently endured long lines, backpack inspections, and metal-detecting checks on Sunday to enter St Peters Square. Under a brilliant sun, they listened to Francis deliver the traditional noon Easter speech from the central balcony of St Peters Basilica.

To their delight, Francis completed a whirl through the square, which was made colourful with sprays of tulips and other spring flowers, in his open-topped pope-mobile, after celebrating mass on the steps of the basilica. He leaned over barriers to shake hands, as the vehicle ventured past the Vaticans confines, with his bodyguards jogging alongside on the boulevard.

For years, Islamist extremists, on social media, have listed the Vatican and Rome as potential targets, because they are home to the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church and several basilicas.

Despite the threats, Francis tries to be in close physical contact with ordinary people.

Francis said that Jesus, who rose after death by crucifixion, triumphed over evil and sin. Francis also expressed a hope that will draw us closer to the victims of terrorism, that blind, and brutal form of violence.

At the end of Mass, he chatted briefly with the former king and queen of Belgium, Albert II and Paola, who had attended the ceremony.

In his speech, Francis cited recent terrorist attacks in Belgium, Turkey, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Iraq.

He called the message of Easter a message of life for all humanity.

Easter invites us not to forget those men and women seeking a better future, an ever more numerous throng of migrants and refugees  including many children  fleeing from war, hunger, poverty and social injustice, he said.

As he has done repeatedly, Francis lamented that, all too often, these brothers and sisters of ours meet along the way with death or, in any event, rejection by those who could offer them welcome and assistance.

Some European countries have erected barbed-wire fences, and other barriers, to keep out those who continue to arrive on Greek and Italian shores, after risky sea voyages on smugglers boats. Another strategy has been for some European countries to express a preference for accepting Christian refugees over Muslim ones  which would effectively rule out the vast majority of Syrian refugees.

Most recently, a host of countries along Europes main migrant route, north of Greece to central Europe, have simply closed their borders to refugees, stranding thousands of families at different border points.

Francis also decried the destruction and contempt for humanitarian law in Syria, millions of whose people have fled to Europe, or to refugee camps closer to their homeland.

World: 9
ITS BEEN a big year for Irish cinema on the world stage. After viewing Brooklyn in Sundance 2015 critics were running for their laptops while the word on Room was scorching hot from the moment Lenny Abrahamsons eventual Oscar nominee premiered in Telluride later in September. Paddy Breathnachs Viva would join Room in Toronto, and at the dawn of the new year, John Carneys Sing Street and Rebecca Dalys Mammal would bring the Irish renaissance full circle as both films world premiered in Sundance 2016.

Room scribe Emma Donoghue aside, Daly is the only woman filmmaker of the bunch. Though she says her gender has never been a drawback. My work has always been supported by the Irish Film Board, which is fantastic, says the Dublin writer-director whose debut 2011 film The Other Side of Sleep had premiered in Cannes Directors Fortnight. Ive never felt any kind of issue there. Theres been the Waking The Feminists movement to do with the under-representation of Irish women in theatre and I think that this also is an issue in film. Though I havent personally felt that.

Moreover, with her second film she feels a greater confidence. There was so much riding on my first film. With this one I could just make it and enjoy it.

MAKING A SPLASH

As with The Other Side of Sleep, Daly focuses on a female protagonist. The film opens with a scintillating shot of Margaret (Rachel Griffiths) swimming in a pool as, well, a mammal.

I had this idea to shoot the opening scene like a National Geographic documentary, Daly explains. We wanted people to think about how we are like animals in terms of birth, reproduction and sex.

Daly worked with her regular co-writer Glenn Montgomery on the film, which follows a single woman who discovers that her estranged son has died. He had been raised by her former partner Matt (Michael McElhatton, far more laid back than as Roose Bolton in Game of Thrones) and she is racked with sorrow and guilt.

Glenn originated the idea, Daly explains. He wanted to write a story about this woman who we discover a little way into the film has not raised her child and is not a conventional mother. We are always interested in a bit of mystery, so theres this time in the film where youre getting to know her and you dont really know what this other layer is or what comes next.

Griffiths keeps her own Aussie accent to emphasise the character as a fish out of water living in Dublin. Moreover, the natural extrovert, who has played outspoken mums in Six Feet Under and Brothers & Sisters, plays against type.

I was interested in the tension between Rachel as a warm outgoing woman versus the character whos introverted and not so verbal and taking these big unexpected decisions, notes Daly.

An unexpected development comes when the grief-stricken Margaret finds a young man, Joe (Barry Keoghan), beaten up on the ground, she takes him in and offers him her spare room. While initially she might see him as the son she lost and perhaps never really had, sparks begin to fly so that the relationship veers away from being purely platonic. The sex again takes place in water, in a bathtub.

The bathtub is kind of a womb-like space, explains Daly. When they have sex, theres something a bit foetal about the position of their legs. Its to do with the idea of creating an essential need in the sex. Its a soothing thing rather than really sexy sex.

SEXUAL AGENDA

Griffiths and up-and-coming Dublin actor Keoghan  familiar as a young gangster in Love/Hate  spent a couple of weeks preparing for their roles. It was a challenge for Keoghan as Joe is the character driving the sexual agenda.

Barry Keoghan

Rachel is so nice and made it very comfortable for me, Keoghan recalls. We joked a lot so the chemistry was there and it was a really nice shoot. There were tough moments as it was my first time doing scenes like that, but I just rocked on through it.

While Daly says that 47-year-old Griffiths was excited by how different it was from the kinds of things shed been doing the idea of being directed by a woman wasnt such a rarity.

I had a lot of female directors on Six Feet Under and many of my favourite directors on Brothers & Sisters were women, Griffiths notes. Ive probably worked with more men than women though every person is different. Some are real cutters, some are real communicators and some are kind of squirrels. I think Rebecca is the real deal in that she is actually an auteur. Im not overly worshipping at the notion of the auteur and a lot of people think theyre auteurs when theyre not. Theyre good craftspeople.

Rebecca Daly

But Rebeccas vision of the world and her understanding of certain states is so specific and delicate and rare that the movies she makes are utterly unique and cohesive to this very specific lens. And to me thats the definition of an auteur. When you watch her movies you feel like youre seeing the world through her eyes and it was incredibly exciting to surrender to that and its not something Ive done. I mean PJ [Hogan, Muriels Wedding director] is a real auteur but I havent worked with a lot.

In reality Daly doesnt have children while Melbourne-based Griffiths is the mother of three kids with her artist husband Andrew Taylor, who all came to Ireland during the shoot.

It was lovely to share weekends with them, Griffiths recalls. We did some great drives and we showed the children Comerford Castle, the castle of my husbands ancestors. We had some really wonderful adventures.

SET FOR STARDOM

Meanwhile Keoghan has determined the indie path is the one he wants to pursue. I can get to express myself and come off a film and say, That was a journey.

He has really been busy and has worked with Brendan Gleeson and Michael Fassbender on the UK film, Trespass Against Us. Acting alongside two of Irelands greatest stars was like a dream come true.

Theyre just lads, arent they? Like lads from the community. Brendans like someone you know already because I come from the inner city so hes like a lad from the inner city.

And Michaels so cool. Hes such a good guy and he looks out for his young actors. He looked out for me a lot.

Keoghan has already appeared in 71 and Stay, and has also completed the UK-Bulgarian-Belgian co-production, Light Thereafter alongside Danish star Kim Bodnia from The Bridge. Watch this face.
The ingenuity of two Kerry brothers and the groundwork done by the 1916 leaders and Clan na Gael in America was largely responsible.

British intelligence knew a rising was planned, that Roger Casement was on his way from Germany in a submarine, and that the Aud was on the high seas with weapons to be landed on the west coast.

Known members of the Irish Volunteers, Irish Citizen Army and Irish Republican Brotherhood, who were organising the revolution, were under surveillance. British navy ships patrolled the coast and the Royal Irish Constabulary were on full alert across the south-west.

Roger Casement

Casements capture and the detention of the Aud and its munitions cargo eased British fears of an imminent Easter Rising. But it did not stop their determination to prevent detailed news of the happenings in Kerry being reported.

Easter Saturdays morning papers carried brief accounts from local correspondents  the first vague indications that something big was up  but there was no mention of Casement. However, news of his arrest leaked out in Dublin later that day.

Sean T OKelly was walking across what is now OConnell Street, near Nelsons Pillar, when he met T F OSullivan, a journalist on the Freemans Journal, who asked him to convey to the Volunteer leaders a bit of important news he had just received. OSullivan told him a British Army Intelligence officer had called to the Freemans Journal editor with an order that on no account was anything to be published about Casements arrest or the sinking of a German boat off the south coast.

British moves to suppress the story did not surprise the leaders of the Rising, who had planned how they would tell the world there was a revolution in Ireland and that a Republic had been declared. Central to those plans were the Ring brothers, Tim and Eugene, telegraphers at Valentia Cable Station in Kerry who were the links between Patrick Pearse and John Devoy, the Clan na Gael leader in New York.

The Rings sent a coded message to Devoys housekeeper to the effect that mother had been successfully operated on  the signal for the Clan leader to launch a publicity blitz that there was a Rising in Ireland. Some historical accounts referred to Tom instead of mother.

Newspapers across the US devoted vast space to the story, almost as soon as London itself had received the news. It made the front page of the New York Times on 14 successive days. The Ring brothers were later arrested. Tim was jailed in Frongoch in Wales, while Eugene was detained in Cahersiveen barracks before being released.

News of the Rising was slow in spreading across Ireland. Communications between the capital and the rest of the country were broken. Transport was disrupted.

Some British officers in Dublin didnt even hear about it until late in the day. They had gone to the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse, where a bay gelding ominously named Civil War came fourth.

There was no word of a Rising at a rain-marred race day at Cork Park, but a horse named All for Ireland came second in a mile-and-a-half hurdle, ahead of Her Majesty.

Sketchy details of the Rising did not emerge for several days. People who managed to get out of the city were repeatedly asked: Any news from Dublin?

Lack of accurate information led to wild rumours and frustration among newspaper editors whose papers, unlike those in Dublin, continued to be published. Details at Last was the May 1 headline on the Cork Examiner just after the rebels surrendered.

The Western People admitted in its April 29 edition, five days after the Rising began, it was unable to offer definitive information on the events.

We have not the means of knowing at this writing how matters actually stand, for all communication with the metropolis by rail or newspaper or letter has been absolutely cut off since Monday and we are perforce living, as it were, on a desert island...

A reporter who sailed across the Irish Sea a few days after the Rising described the capital as being like a city of the dead.

Not a soul was to be seen but pickets of infantry posted at intervals down the quay. Every house was closely shuttered and barred. Not a factory chimney gave a sign of smoke. Fires were burning in different parts of the city. A few vessels moored alongside the deserted quays gave no sign of life.

It was hard to realise but it was none the less a fact that we found a capital city within 300 miles of London, absolutely cut off from the outer world, he wrote.

Joseph Mary Plunkett, the man who planned the Rising, organised a wireless communications system earlier in the week. The aim was to tell the rest of the world through Morse code that the Irish Republic had been declared. It kept repeating the message for over 24 hours but no one ever knew if it was picked up because the equipment could not receive signals.

However, the exercise was hailed by some as the worlds first pirate radio station  48 years before the offshore Radio Caroline emerged in 1964. Ronan ORahilly, who started the ship-based Radio Caroline, had a direct link with the Rising. His grandfather, The ORahilly from Ballylongford, Co Kerry, one of the Volunteer leaders, was killed when he led his men in a charge along Moore Street as part of the GPO evacuation.
TWELVES weeks ago, I started a professional placement with a family support project in a disadvantaged area of Cork City. This is the first of two 14-week placements I must complete as part of my social work degree in University College Cork. Project workers encounter a multitude of different issues daily. Their work can encompass addiction, mental ill-health, domestic abuse, child development, and a litany of other challenges, and all in a single morning.

My experience of vulnerable families in disadvantaged communities has been overwhelming, and hugely humbling. However, amidst all the challenging issues, one stands out: homelessness. We have heard, ad nauseam, about homelessness for the past number of months. Yet, most of us still have no idea just how bad the issue is. While I always read the stories about the rise in homelessness, I could never fully relate to, or comprehend, the issue until now.

It was a rainy Tuesday and my practice teacher and I were parked on the Western Road. I peered up, to get a better view of the B&B that had become obscured since we had parked the car. Next to me, my practice teacher spoke on the phone, anxiety and concern evident in her voice.

Shes up in Drinan street collecting the cheque, said the distressed voice on the other end of the phone.

Meanwhile, just a 10-minute walk away, a young woman and her three-year-old child queued in a small office on a side street, seeking financial assistance so that they could access the security and warmth of the B&B I now had in my view. She desperately needed the cheque for which she was queuing, but that desperation had become her normality. Living dawn to dark, not knowing where her temporary hearth would lay the following day had become her daily ritual. This had become the daily ritual of many.

Unfortunately, the plight facing the young woman and child is no longer unusual. Bedrooms have become homes and are shared between parents and children, while emergency accommodation units for homeless women and children are bursting at the seams.

A few days after that rainy day on the Western Road, I stood in a kitchen that overlooked a large slice of the cityscape. Houses littered the hills of the rolling landscape, for as far the eye could see.

Peering out that window, it seemed cruelly ironic that we shared this view with a mother-of-six who was soon to become homeless, a pawn to an unforgiving private rental market and an overburdened social housing system; priced out of one, seemingly unable to access the other.

It felt hugely disempowering, as my practice teacher and I stood there, hugely aware that the support of our shoulders was all that we could provide, when the protection of a roof was what this woman and her family really needed.

But, in my experience thus far, that is the reality facing family support projects and community services. Tasked with supporting families, but unable to perform miracles, they work with the real-life consequences of government cuts, inadequate resources, and political choices.

In recent days, I spoke with workers from one of the main residential units involved in providing shelter to women and children in Cork City. I wanted further context.

At the time of writing, this one unit had 10 families sleeping there every single night. Coupled with the additional 18 single women that sleep there every night, this means they are consistently at full capacity, and have been for some time. They also had 23 families, accompanied by 39 children, waiting to access their unit and/or services.

An outreach worker within the same unit, who is tasked with engaging women and families in B&Bs and hotels, gave further context. At the time of writing, this worker is engaged with 13 families and 37 children, all living in B&Bs or hotels.

Shockingly, she relayed to me how she was actively engaged with 18 families and 46 children, in B&Bs or hotels, throughout the city.

The homelessness crisis was entirely avoidable, so it is incumbent upon the incoming government to truly understand the daily reality facing men, women, and children most especially, in towns and cities throughout Ireland. The time for empty rhetoric is over. The general election posters have come down, yet their promises still stain the air.

We will never fail children again, our nation cried, as report after report on institutional abuse shamed our state, and our people.

Yet, here we are again, allowing our political system to fail children.

What kind of recovery leaves innocent children without a home? What kind of state is happy to deny a small child the comfort of their own bed? On the centenary of Easter 1916, it is ironic that while I harvest enormous hope from having witnessed such incredible work over the past three months, my experience of the homelessness crisis has ensured that I have never been less proud to be Irish.

Diarmaid Twomey is a student social worker in UCC and currently on placement with a community/family support project in the northside of the city
IN IRELAND, during 1916, the flow of information and the ability of newspapers to report the news was heavily regulated and constrained by the Defence of the Realm Act (DORA).

At the beginning of the First World War, all the belligerent powers had instituted censorship in an attempt to keep the populations under their control from receiving news that might undermine morale, lower recruitment, or otherwise threaten the war effort. DORA had been enacted in Ireland and Britain between August and November 1914 by the British government of Herbert Asquith and made it a court martial offence to publish false reports or reports likely to cause disaffection to His Majesty or to interfere with the success of His Majestys forces

By the terms of the Act, a newspaper report could be accurate but if it was judged by the authorities to have the potential to cause disaffection, a deliberately vague term, then that paper could be suppressed. Irish national and regional newspapers became increasingly resentful of the censorship regime over the course of the war but, in the period from the outbreak of the conflict to the Easter Rising, they complied with DORA, supporting the war effort and advocating Irish recruitment to the British army.

There were only a few papers, such as the Irish Worker, which openly challenged this consensus and they were subject to harassment by Dublin Castle, with the Worker being suppressed soon after the wars beginning. Such suppressions offered a salutary lesson to the Irish press on the dangers of contravening DORA and they demonstrate the atmosphere in which news was produced and reported upon at the time.

It has often been demonstrated how national and regional newspapers condemned the Rising, and how some papers approved of the ensuing executions. Yet, other newspapers responded to the Rising in a more careful manner and the Cork Examiner was one such example. It took days for information on what was happening in Dublin to spread to Cork, a result of both the censorship and the imposition of martial law in the capital.

Reports of the devastation in Dublin from the Cork Examiner in the aftermath of the Easter Rising.

Indeed, on the day after the Rising began, the Examiner carried no news of the events and its editorial was devoted to a meeting of the Irish National Teachers conference. It was Thursday, April 27, before it printed reports from Dublin, a series of official dispatches from Dublin Castle, which told of the shelling of Liberty Hall.

The Examiners first editorial on the Rising appeared on Friday, April 28, in which it advised readers that the full facts are not known and that little news had filtered through from Dublin. Yet, the editorial declared that the leaders of the Sinn Fein movement are not primarily responsible, and that the position is best described as a communistic disturbance rather than a revolutionary movement. The paper condemned the Rising as lamentable and a mad project, which apparently originated in Liberty Hall but it was to repeatedly counsel the British authorities in Ireland to show restraint.

On May 1, before the first of the executions, those of Patrick Pearse, Thomas Clarke, and Thomas MacDonagh, the paper stated that: Many responsible people, consumed with horror at the tragic situation that they have brought about, cry out for drastic measures. We emphatically protest against such a course.

On May 6, as the executions continued, the Examiner argued that the participants in the Rising should not be condemned but won over by a little forbearance and conciliation. The rebels had shown courage and had fought in accordance with the traditions of soldiers.

If the Examiner adopted a policy of reconciliation, other papers took a different path. Any discussion of newspapers and the Rising inevitably turns to William Martin Murphys Irish Independent and its editorials. During Easter week, the Independent had been unable to publish as its offices on Abbey Street were in the centre of the hottest fire. On Thursday, April 27, those offices were taken over by what the paper later described as eight armed Sinn Feiners. The rebels remained in place for two days whereupon the staff returned to find their workplace had been left practically undamaged albeit without the power supplies to operate the machinery.

Consequently, the paper remained out of circulation from Easter Monday until May 4. When the Independent returned to news-stands it offered a furious denunciation of the criminal madness of those who had planned and carried out the Rising. The article, written by the editor Timothy Harrington, accused the leaders of doing the enemys work; the enemy in question being Germany. The rebels, in the papers analysis, were not only disastrously misguided but had proved themselves to be mere pawns of the same Germany against which so many Irishmen were then at war.

It was two subsequent editorials, those of May 10 and 12, which were to become a part of the popular memory of the Rising. Harringtons editorial of May 10 acknowledged that the government needed to show some restraint and he advised them to leniently deal with all the rank and file and all those who filled only minor parts in the tragedy as well as those under 21.

The first editorial on the Rising in

The editorial abandoned thoughts of clemency when it discussed the leaders of the Rising: When, however, we come to some of the ringleaders, instigators, and fomenters not yet dealt with, we must make an exception. If these men are treated with too great leniency they will take it as an indication of weakness on the part of the Government, and the consequences may not be satisfactory. Two days later, he made another strident call for punishment: Certain of the leaders remain undealt with, and the part they played was worse than that of some of those who have paid the extreme penalty. Such men, whom he called the worst of the leaders, deserved no special leniency.

Of the seven signatories of the Proclamation, only Sean MacDiarmada and James Connolly remained alive when Harrington wrote his editorials. His words were regarded across Ireland as William Martin Murphys and the Irish Independents revenge against Connolly. However, it seems likely that Murphy played no part in their writing, since he was in London at that time with a delegation of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce.

The Irish Times took a similarly antagonistic view of those who took part in the Rising. On May 1, before the start of the executions, it advised the authorities to deploy the surgeons knife to remove the malignant growth which had corrupted the body of Ireland: The rapine and bloodshed of the past week must be finished with a severity which will make any repetition of them impossible for generations to come. On May 10, it rejected calls for an end to the executions, defending [military governor] John Maxwell, and writing that the Rising leaders were able and educated men who appreciated thoroughly the nature of their enterprise and the consequences of defeat. Although the paper had been unable to report in detail during Easter week, it would publish the most detailed accounts of the Rising, culminating in its famous Sinn Fein Rebellion Handbook. Newspapers around the country, such as the Cork Examiner, the Roscommon Herald, and the Connaught Tribune, may initially have judged the Rising to have been a socialist plot but the press soon pinned the blame on Sinn Fein.

The Dublin-based Freemans Journal, which was funded by the Irish Parliamentary Party, condemned the Rising which had been, the paper claimed, less a revolt against the British Empire than an armed assault against the will and decision of the Irish nation itself, constitutionally ascertained through its proper representatives.

That editorial carried the headline, Sinn Fein Insurrection. This attribution was taken up by regional newspapers, many of which were also tied to the Parliamentary Party, partly in an attempt to tarnish Sinn Fein, a rival for the hearts and votes of nationalist Ireland. Those efforts would have the opposite effect and would instead provide the separatist party with a degree of authority and prestige it had previously lacked.

Sinn Fein would become enormously successful after the Rising, as evidenced by its subsequent electoral successes. The attendant decline of the Irish Parliamentary Party caused much of the press to modify its attitude to Sinn Fein, as the papers sought to make themselves more amenable to the changing political affiliations of their readers.

Also, many newspapers became increasingly embittered by the actions of the British government over the rest of the war, deploring the possibility of partition in any political settlement in Ireland, opposing conscription in 1918, and attacking censorship.

In Ireland, the censorship regime was made even more onerous following the Rising and it would remain in place after the end of the war. By that time, the relationship between Dublin Castle and the bulk of the Irish press was on the verge of collapse with consequences that would become manifest during the War of Independence.

Ian Kenneally is a historian and author, whose books include The Paper Wall: newspapers and propaganda in Ireland, 1919-1921 (Collins Press, 2008)
JAMES CONNOLLY was a feminist and he was the one who insisted that the 1916 Proclamation included women as well as men. When we read the proclamation today we can rightly ask ourselves the question: what happened to the aspired Irish Republic that guarantees religious and civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities to all its citizens cherishing all the children of the nation equally?

Even though a great number of women played an integral role in the 1916 Rising, they never got the recognition they deserved for the part they played. This is evidenced in the reality that far too many of the women who fought alongside their fellow men were denied pensions after the War of Independence, and were not celebrated as heroes as their male counterparts were. It has taken 100 years to acknowledge and validate the role women played in 1916.

The 1916 Proclamations commitment to gender equality was ahead of its time.

Over the years we have demonstrated in Ireland that we are very good when it comes to producing reports but very poor when it comes to implementing the necessary changes to effect real change. Could this implementation deficit have had its genesis in 1916?

There is no single answer as to why the problem of gender inequality has been so difficult to shift, but we know that since 1916 women were treated as second class citizens in Ireland.

Married women were seen as the property of their husbands, they did not have the right to create their own domicile, and they had to retire from their public service jobs when they married. This is to name but a few of the many inequalities that have existed for women in Ireland.

It is true that since 1916 we have slowly but surely, but too often with great difficulty, made the necessary changes to address these inequalities. However, we still have some way to go yet to redress the many inequalities that still abound.

We need to work together to transform the social and cultural norms and institutions in order to once and for all eradicate inequality in our society, in particular violence against women, childhood poverty and homelessness.

Genders quotas, implemented in our recent General Election, have begun the process of redressing the gender imbalance that has always existed in Dail Eireann. However, female members of the Dail still only account for 22% of the overall membership. Gender quotas are like stabilisers  they can come off eventually once the balance is reached.

The disparity in female representation is also sadly evident in our second house, the Seanad.

I wonder what Constance Markievicz would say if she knew that in 35 years the graduates of National University of Ireland have not elected a woman representative to its Seanad panel? How would she react to hearing that women are still being paid less than men, for doing the same work? What would Dr Kathleen Lynn think of the statistics regarding violence against women, or Rosie Hackett of the housing crisis? Would they believe it if someone told them that 100 years from 1916 some families are forced to sleep in their cars because of the housing crisis and every night we witness people sleeping in doorways in our cities?

European Commission Statistics published in 2014 show Irelands gender pay gap is increasing. It was 14.4% in 2012 compared with 13.9% in 2010 and 12.6% in 2009 and 2008. The average EU gender pay gap stands at 16.1% (2014). These figures speak for themselves. While we have come a long way we are still very far from reaching gender equality in Ireland. Feminism needs to be embraced by everyone. It is not something to resist or to be afraid of. We know that more equal societies are healthier, happier and more prosperous.

In the recent General Election we saw the positive affect of the introduction of gender quotas. In order to represent our society fairly and to have a true mandate from all the people of Ireland, we need both genders in our Oireachtas.

Our Oireachtas is made of the President, the Dail and the Seanad. Over the past 20 years we saw the very positive effect that our first two women Presidents, Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, had on Ireland.

Both Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese were keenly aware of the symbolic significance of their position and their role as President on Irish society in general and on the women of Ireland in particular. Irish women as a consequence felt more empowered and confident as a result of having a female President. The fact that both Presidents were very different in their personalities and in the execution of their roles only enhanced their positive effect on our society. It is very heartening to have in President Michael D Higgins, a man who is a feminist and very proud to call himself a feminist.

In 2013 the people of Ireland voted to retain our second house of Government, Seanad Eireann. Since then Dr Maurice Manning has delivered an excellent report on Seanad reform.

However this report, along with 12 other reports on Seanad reform that were commissioned in the past, has not yet been implemented.

The current Seanad election is being conducted in the same way as Seanad elections of the past have always been conducted. It is elitist, it is a huge cost to the exchequer and it is not representative of all of the people of Ireland. The Manning Report needs to be implemented as a matter of priority in the new Government to address all of the above. So as we commemorate 1916, let us reconnect to that spirit of equal rights and opportunities for all our citizens.

If elected to Seanad Eireann next month, I will be the first woman elected to the NUI panel since 1981. Working together for true equality, education rights and mental health reform, we can make a difference.

Ellen OMalley Dunlop was CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre for 10 years, and is an independent candidate for the NUI panel in the current Seanad election.
The IS retreat came after an assault from Syrian government forces backed by Russian airstrikes. It has been reported that 400 IS fighters were killed, and that this represents the biggest single defeat for the group since it declared a caliphate in areas of Syria and Iraq under its control in 2014.

The recapture of the city is very welcome, but the achievement is tempered by the very sobering warning from Britains former prime minister Tony Blair published yesterday.
He ignores the fact that the Scandinavian countries and Finland have just one house of parliament and do not have the equivalent of our Seanad.

Despite having just one house of parliament none of the Scandinavian countries has gone bankrupt nor had to have a bailout. Also pressure on public services and level of government borrowings in Scandinavia are much less than they are in this country.
In comments reported by Syrian state TV, he said that the overthrow of IS in the historic town offered new evidence of the effectiveness of the strategy espoused by the Syrian army and its allies in the war against terrorism.

Government forces had been on the offensive for nearly three weeks to try to retake the town, which is home to famed Roman-era ruins and was once one of Syrias top tourist destinations. It had been in the hands of militants from IS since May.

State TV quoted an unnamed military official as saying that the armed forces and groups of popular defence committees have fully taken control of Palmyra. The popular defence committees are militias allied with the government.

The advance marks both a strategic and symbolic victory for the government. Its forces are now better positioned for a future advance on Raqqa, the IS groups de facto capital.

IS drove government forces from Palmyra in a matter of days last May and later demolished some of the best-known monuments in the Unesco world heritage site, including two large temples dating back more than 1,800 years and a Roman triumphal archway.

The extremists have destroyed a number of historical sites across their self-declared caliphate, viewing such ruins as promoting idolatry.

Syrian culture minister Issam Khalil hailed the recapture of Palmyra as a victory for humanity and right over all projects of darkness.

Maamoun Abdulkarim, director of the governments museums and antiquities department in Damascus, said damage to the Great Colonnade at Palmyra is minor. We will rebuild what you have destroyed, he said, addressing IS.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said three weeks of fighting killed more than 400 IS fighters, as well as 180 troops and pro-government militiamen.

Russian jets carried out 40 air sorties near Palmyra in a 24-hour period, hitting 158 targets and killing over 100 militants, Russias defence minister said Saturday.

The government has also benefited from a US and Russian-brokered ceasefire that has sharply reduced violence across the country since it took effect last month. IS and the al-Qaida-affiliated Nusra Front are excluded from the agreement.
Amid fears of further attacks, officials wanted to give police the scope to focus on investigations which have widened to other countries, leading to the arrest of an Algerian in Italy and intelligence cooperation with Germany. Police carried out 13 new raids in Belgium itself.

Hundreds nevertheless gathered at the Bourse to express solidarity with the victims of the suicide bomb attacks at Brussels airport and on a rush-hour metro train. Thirty one people were killed, including three attackers, and hundreds more injured. Islamic State has claimed responsibility.

Most of the protests were peaceful but white-helmeted riot police used the water cannon against a group of protesters, many of whom local media described as right-wing nationalists, who burst onto the square chanting and carrying banners denouncing Islamic State.

In and around Brussels and Antwerp, police carried out 13 new raids in connection with the attacks, with nine people questioned and five later released, the prosecutors office said.

With links to the Paris attacks in November becoming clearer, and amid criticism that Europe has not done enough to share intelligence about suspected Islamist militants, cooperation appeared to be deepening.

Belgian press agency Belga said on Sunday prosecutors had charged a man in connection with a raid in Paris on Thursday that authorities say foiled an apparent attack plot.

Belga named him as Abderamane A, who prosecutors had said on Saturday was being held after being shot in a raid in the Brussels district of Schaerbeek.

After a series of raids in Belgium and Germany, Italian police also arrested Algerian Djamal Eddine Ouali who is suspected of making documents for militants linked to the bombings, Italian media said on Saturday.

His name was found in documents in a raid on an apartment near Brussels last October, including some with photos of militants involved in the attacks in Paris and in Brussels and the aliases they used.

Germanys Federal Criminal Police Office was among the European security agencies still hunting for at least eight mostly French or Belgian suspects, Die Welt am Sonntag newspaper reported. They are thought to be on the run in Syria or Europe.

Belgian prosecutors also charged three men on Saturday including Faycal C, whom Belgian media identified as Faycal Cheffou and said he was the man in the hat in last Tuesdays airport CCTV footage that showed three men pushing baggage trolleys.

However, investigators have not confirmed that Cheffou is that man.
Mr Sanders still faces a steep climb to overtake Mrs Clinton but the big victories in the West generated more momentum for his upstart campaign and could stave off calls from Democratic leaders that he should wrap up his bid in the name of party unity.

Mr Sanders appeared headed to victory margins of more than 50 percentage points in Alaska and Washington, and led by about 40 points in Hawaii with some 90% of the results tallied there. We are making significant inroads in Secretary Clintons lead and... we have a path to victory, Mr Sanders told cheering supporters in Madison, Wisconsin. It is hard for anybody to deny that our campaign has the momentum.

Mrs Clinton, the former secretary of state, has increasingly turned her attention toward a potential November 8 general election showdown against Republican front-runner Donald Trump, claiming she is on the path to wrapping up the nomination.

Heading into Saturday, she led Mr Sanders by about 300 pledged delegates in the race for the 2,382 delegates needed to be nominated at the partys July convention in Philadelphia. Adding in the support of superdelegates  party leaders who are free to back any candidate  she has 1,690 delegates to 946 for Mr Sanders.

Mr Sanders, a US senator from Vermont, needs to win up to two-thirds of the remaining delegates to catch Ms Clinton, who will keep piling up delegates even when she loses under a Democratic Party system that awards them proportionally in all states.

These wins will help him raise more funds for the next few weeks but I dont think it changes the overall equation, said Democratic strategist Jim Manley, a Clinton supporter. Hillary Clinton has too big a lead.

But Mr Sanders has repeatedly said he is staying in the race until the convention, pointing to big crowds at his rallies and high turnout among young and first-time voters as proof of his viability. After raising $140m (125m), he has the money to fight on as long as he wants.

He has energised the partys liberal base and young voters with his calls to rein in Wall St and fight income inequality, a message that resonated in liberal Washington and other Western states. Mr Sanders won in Utah and Idaho last week.

After Wisconsin, the Democratic race moves to contests in New York on April 19 and a bloc of five states in the Northeast, led by Pennsylvania, on April 26.

There were no contests on Saturday in the Republican race featuring Mr Trump and rivals senator Ted Cruz of Texas and Ohio governor John Kasich.

On Saturday, the New York Times published a foreign policy-focused interview with Mr Trump.He told the Times he might stop oil purchases from Saudi Arabia unless they provide troops to fight the Islamic State. He also said he was willing to rethink traditional US alliances should he become president.
The virus is linked to thousands of suspected cases of birth defects in Brazil. The new case is a 46-year-old woman whose partner was infected while in Haiti.

Chile, which does not have the mosquitoes that transmit the virus, has confirmed 10 cases of Zika involving people infected outside the country.
Blair described the attacks in Brussels as shocking, but said such attacks would keep happening unless extremism was tackled.

Writing in the Sunday Times, he said that the roots of Islamism, including the immaturity of political systems and the exploitation of a genuine sense of injustice over the Palestinian issue, needed to be understood to be countered. Mr Blair said that a new strategy was needed to defeat extremism and this should include greater co-operation between intelligence agencies.
The blast occurred in the parking area of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, metres away from childrens swings. More than 300 people were injured in the explosion.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast.

Pakistan, a nuclear-armed nation of 190m people, is plagued by a Taliban insurgency, criminal gangs, and sectarian violence. Punjab is its biggest and wealthiest province.

Eyewitnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled after the blast.

The park had been particularly busy yesterday evening due to the Easter holiday weekend. There is speculation that Christian families out for the Easter weekend may have been the target.

Salman Rafique, a health adviser for the Punjab provincial government, put the death toll at a minimum of 52 people.

Most of the dead and injured are women and children, said Mustansar Feroz, police superintendent for the area in which the park is located.

Media footage showed children and women crying and screaming and rescue officials, police, and bystanders carrying injured people to ambulances and private cars.

One eyewitness said there was chaos, with a stampede breaking out and children separated from their parents in the rush to escape.

The explosion appears to have been at the main gate to the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in an area where cars are usually left.

Senior police official Haider Ashraf said the blast appeared to be a suicide attack, adding that ball bearings were found at the crowded park.

In 2014, Pakistan launched an offensive against Taliban and affiliated jihadist fighters in North Waziristan, seeking to deprive them of safe havens from which to launch attacks in both Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Punjab has traditionally been more peaceful than other parts of Pakistan. Sharifs opponents have accused him of tolerating militancy in return for peace in his province, a charge he strongly denies.

Last year saw the lowest number of civilian and security forces casualties since 2007, the year the umbrella Pakistani Taliban group was formed.

However, militants are still able to carry out major attacks from time to time.

At least 16 people were killed and more than two dozen wounded when a bomb blew up inside a bus in Peshawar, the main city of Pakistans insurgency-wracked north-west on March 16.

Last year, a bomb killed a popular Pakistani provincial minister and at least eight others when it destroyed the ministers home in Punjab.
Asia Rising China Risk Tarnishes Hong Kong Business Hub Luster

For decades, Hong Kong thrived as an Asian business hub, but now, recent political and economic ills from mainland China are eroding that edge.

HONG KONG  For decades, Hong Kong thrived as an Asian business hub thanks to its killer combination of Western freedoms, independent courts and closeness to mainland Chinas booming market. Now political and economic ills from the mainland are eroding that edge.

Swedish-Chinese author Gui Minhai was counting on Hong Kongs freedoms when he chose the city as the base for the publishing empire he has built up over the past decade, churning out exposes on elite Chinese politics that were snapped up by visitors from mainland China, where they are prohibited.

The recent temporary disappearances of Gui and four colleagues, including his British chief editor Lee Bo, rising political volatility and slowing growth in China are undermining confidence in Beijings promises to leave the citys freedoms intact for a half-century after taking control of Hong Kong in 1997.

Local frustrations will likely intensify as the citys pro-Beijing elite prepares to choose a new leader for the specially administered Chinese region next year.

In unusually blunt comments, Financial Secretary John Tsang predicted recently that Hong Kongs economy would eke out its smallest expansion in four years in 2016.

Politics and economics are closely intertwined. Political volatility will unavoidably impact on our economy, Tsang said in his budget speech last month. Tension and turbulence have left many in Hong Kong feeling suffocated by a confrontational atmosphere, said Tsang, warning of even greater chaos ahead if tensions arent resolved.

Hong Kong remains wealthier and freer than the mainland, but the city of 7.2 million is riven with inequality and faces growing competition from other Chinese business hubs like nearby Shenzhen and Shanghai. Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping has sought to crush dissent in other regions like Xinjiang and Tibet, showing little sympathy for the yearning among many in Hong Kong for greater democracy.

Investors arent rushing for the exits yet, but in the financial industry, backbone of the economy, the mood is darkening.

If Hong Kong is gradually being taken over by all these Chinese business practices and also politically theres more and more pressure and influence coming from mainland China, this will definitely destroy Hong Kong in the end, said Edward Chan, an investment fund manager.

Foreign investors might start to think that if Hong Kong does not have rule of law or anything, why dont they just move their investment directly to Shanghai or Beijing? Whats the difference? he said.

As Beijing increasingly opts more for the one country part of the one country, two systems framework guaranteeing its separate legal and financial systems until 2047, Hong Kong is paying a price.

Dimming Hong Kongs image as a global financial center, HSBC decided in February not to move its headquarters from London back to Hong Kong despite a restructuring focused on pivoting toward Asia. The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. was founded in the city in 1865 and shifted its headquarters to Britain in the early 1990s.

In explaining its choice, HSBC did not refer to China, though lauded Britains internationally respected regulatory framework and legal system.

On March 12, credit rating agency Moodys Investors Service cuts Hong Kongs outlook to negative from stable, citing rising political risks and Chinas slowing growth. It had downgraded Chinas rating two weeks before.

Increasing political linkages are likely to weigh on Hong Kongs institutional strength, the agency said. In addition, the risks to Chinas economic and financial stability may also undermine Hong Kongs own economic and financial outlook.

Hong Kongs freedoms were on global display in late 2014, when hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets, blocking busy thoroughfares for 79 days to protest Beijings plan to restrict elections. The peaceful protests highlighted discontent with Chinas influence among local youths, but also among older Hong Kong citizens, many of whose families fled past political turmoil in the Chinese mainland.

More recently, the independent film Ten Years was a surprise hit with its dystopian portrayal of the eradication of the citys Cantonese-language identity under Beijings rule a decade from now.

Activists defending local culture from mainland Chinese influence clashed with police last month when authorities ordered fishball vendors, a traditional fixture during the lunar new year, off the streets of gritty Mong Kok.

Steve Vickers, chief executive of political and economic risk consultancy SVA, said requests for information and help with crisis preparedness spiked after the Mong Kok riot. Political polarization and the slowing economy are threatening Hong Kongs reputation, while Chinas slowdown could worsen tensions by pushing up unemployment and hurting property prices, he said.

Any economic weakness would surely stoke political anger, given the social grievances that underpinned recent protests, Vickers said.

The bookseller disappearances shocked many Hong Kongers because of suspicions that mainland Chinese security agents snatched Lee and spirited him across the border, violating Beijings promise to stay out of most local affairs including law enforcement. Gui apparently was apprehended in Thailand and taken to mainland China.

Many ethnic Chinese in Hong Kong hold foreign passports as a sort of insurance policy in case of a crisis. The difficulties Britain and Sweden faced in getting consular access to Lee and Gui raised doubts about that strategy.

Chan, the investment fund manager, holds a Canadian passport. Now its totally useless, he said. This passport is not going to protect me in any sense if the Lee Bo case is going to re-occur again.

Three of Gui and Lees colleagues are now free on bail in the mainland, but the pair appear to be still detained without charge. They both surfaced briefly on Hong Kong-based pro-Beijing Phoenix TV, where Lee said he was aiding an investigation while Gui tearfully confessed to an old crimehaving fled overseas to avoid a suspended two-year prison sentence for a fatal drunk driving accident. Their Causeway Bay Bookstore remains shuttered.

The booksellers case shook the relatively freewheeling publishing industry in Hong Kong, whose status as a base for independent-minded financial research could suffer if investment banks with business interests on the mainland avoid releasing reports critical of Chinese state-owned companies or the economy, said Chan.

Simon Baptist, chief economist at the Economist Intelligence Unit, whose latest global cost of living survey ranked Hong Kong No. 2, said companies would likely pay closer attention to Hong Kongs fragile press and judicial freedoms when deciding whether to deploy staff or investment here.

Hong Kong is still one of the freer places in Asia, Baptist said, but perhaps that gap, that advantage, it has is narrowing.
Asia Taiwans Hung Makes Nationalist Party Comeback With Leadership Win

Taiwans opposition Nationalist Party has picked as its new leader a woman it had ditched as its presidential candidate weeks before Januarys election.

TAIPEI  Taiwans opposition Nationalist Party picked as its new leader a woman it had ditched as its presidential candidate weeks before Januarys election after a wave of criticism of her campaign.

Pro-China Hung Hsiu-chu, a one-time schoolteacher known by the nickname Little Hot Chili Pepper, won 56 percent of the vote, a Nationalist Party spokeswoman said, beating three other candidates.

She becomes the first female leader of the Nationalist Party, which in January lost not only the presidency but also control of Taiwans parliament to the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

Hungs victory marks a comeback for a woman who in October was removed as her partys candidate for the presidential election after a campaign riddled with gaffes and political attacks.

The change made no difference, however, as her replacement, Eric Chu, still ended up being trounced in by Tsai Ing-wen of the DPP. Tsai will take over as president in May from China-friendly Ma Ying-jeou who had held the position for the Nationalists since 2008.

Chu resigned as party chief after the defeat, forcing a leadership vote.

Thanks to so many comrades support  giving me a chance to bend down and pick up the first brick to lead the Nationalist Party to rebuild our home from the debris, Hung told a news conference.

In the face of such a difficult and hard future situation, as long as we have courage there is no difficulty we cannot overcome. Please join me and work with me, she added.

Hung, who is widely seen as supporting unification with China, faces a tough job rebuilding support for the party. The popularity of the DPP has surged since 2014 when hundreds of students occupied parliament for weeks to protest trade pacts negotiated with China. It was the largest display of anti-China sentiment the island had seen in years.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his capacity as head of Chinas Communist Party, sent a congratulatory message to Hung, according to a note released by the Nationalist Party.

We hope both parties can cement a foundation of mutual trust, increase exchanges and interaction, and ensure peaceful development and stability across the Taiwan Strait, Xi wrote in the message.

Known in Chinese as the Kuomintang, the Nationalist Party ruled China before being forced to flee to Taiwan in 1949 at the end of a bloody civil war with the Chinese Communist Party. Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province to be brought under its control by force if necessary.
Burma All-NLD Lineup as 13 of 14 Chief Ministers Revealed

Burmas regional chief ministers are officially announced at respective state and division parliaments.

RANGOON  Thirteen of Burmas 14 regional chief ministers were officially announced at respective state and division parliaments on Monday morning.

All of the incoming regional heads are National League for Democracy (NLD) members appointed by the countrys President-elect, Htin Kyaw.

Among them are two womenNang Khin Htwe Myint and Lae Lae Mawfor Karen State and Tenasserim Division, respectively, making them the first female chief ministers in Burma.

Rangoon will see Phyo Min Thein in the chief minister role, while Zaw Myint Maung, the NLDs official spokesperson, will hold the position in Mandalay.

Despite the NLDs sweeping national victory in the 2015 general election, the party lost the majority of votes in three ethnic areas: Arakan, Kachin and Shan states.

Still, the party has publicly maintained that they would pick their own members for all chief ministerial positionsa right afforded in the 2008 Constitution.

In Arakan State in particular, the NLD had been facing a strong local lobby to appoint a chief minister from within the Arakan National Party (ANP), which won a majority in the state parliament. Yet the NLD decided to assign the position to its own member, Nyi Pyu.

The ministers for Burmas ethnic states include Lin Htut for Shan State, L Phaong Sho for Karenni State, Salai Lian Luai for Chin State and Min Min Oo for Mon State.

Khat Aung has reportedly been nominated in Kachin State, and will be discussed in regional parliament on Tuesday.

In the populace delta region, Mahn Johnny was selected in Irrawaddy Division, while in Central Burma divisions it was Myint Naing for Sagaing, Aung Moe Nyo for Magwe and Win Thein for Pegu.

A leaked document from the NLD listing the names of the new chief ministers began circulating on social media on Sunday afternoon, eliminating some of the suspense surrounding Mondays official announcement.

The envelope that contained the list of the chief ministers was delivered to state and division NLD offices, and they were told to open it on Sunday afternoon. Thats why, I think, the list has now been widely shared [online], a senior party member told The Irrawaddy.
Burma ANP Stages Walkout Over NLD Chief Minister for Arakan State

Arakan National Party lawmakers walk out of the Arakan State legislature in protest of the appointment of a National League for Democracy chief minister.

RANGOON  Weeks of political wrangling came to a head on Monday morning when about two dozen lawmakers from the Arakan National Party (ANP) walked out on a sitting of the Arakan State legislature in protest of the appointment of a National League for Democracy (NLD) parliamentarian, Nyi Pu, to the states chief minister post.

The ANPs Kyaw Lwin, representing Kyaukphu Townships constituency No. 1, told The Irrawaddy that the decision was in keeping with a party pledge to act in opposition to the NLD if the party of Aung San Suu Kyi failed to nominate an ANP lawmaker for chief minister. The ANP, which holds 23 seats in the 47-member regional legislature, has made the case that its electoral success last year had earned it the chief minister post.

ANP legislators wore black stickers on their jackets during Mondays parliamentary session.

Black is a symbol of sadness, so we affixed it to show that the negligence of the NLD makes us upset, Kyaw Lwin said.

The Arakan Liberation Party, the political wing of the ethnic armed group known as the Arakan Liberation Army, released a statement on Sunday similarly demanding that the ANP be given the reins of regional governance in Arakan State.

On Thursday, NLD chairwoman Suu Kyi hosted a meeting in Naypyidaw with ANP representatives, discussing the regional leadership quandary among other Arakan State affairs.

There had, apparently, been hope that the ANPs demand would be met by the NLD, despite the latters insistence that it would appoint its members to all 14 chief ministerial slots. A report in Sundays state-run Global New Light of Myanmar said the two parties were due to meet at the end of March, to discuss the appointment. It was unclear on Monday whether talks would go forward as planned.

State lawmakers have little ability to reject a chief minister nominee, with the Constitution ensuring presidential appointment unless it can clearly be proved that the person concerned does not meet the qualifications of the Chief Minister of the Region or State.

Several protests have been staged in Arakan State in recent days, urging the NLD, which on Nov. 8 won large majorities across most of the country but not in Arakan State, to select an ANP chief minister.

During a protest on Sunday in Buthidaung Township, demonstrators held signs with the words Dont point to the Constitution, in reference to the NLDs assertion that it is constitutionally empowered to choose the nations chief ministers. Article 261 of the charter affords this privilege to the president, Suu Kyi confidante Htin Kyaw, who was selected by the party chairwoman this month to serve as her proxy.

Last week, demonstrators in the state capital Sittwe carried signs declaring, Unwanted governance system.

Further demonstrations in the state are planned for this week. Suu Kyi reportedly conveyed concern in her Thursday meeting with ANP representatives that the recent protests could jeopardize a fragile transfer of power that culminates at the end of this month.

The chief ministers for 13 of Burmas 14 states and divisions were announced at sessions of the respective regional legislatures on Monday. All of the posts were filled by NLD lawmakers.
Burma El Nino Drought Tipped, Charities Mobilize Water Works

Local charities are gearing up to distribute water to parts of Burma that receive little rain even under normal circumstances.

RANGOON  As the arid region of Central Burma is already feeling the effects of an El Nino year that may not see the climate cycle reach full strength for another two months, local charities are gearing up to distribute water in regions that receive little rain even under normal circumstances.

Meteorologist Tun Lwin says upcountry regions, including Sagaing, Mandalay and Magwe divisions, will suffer most from the weather phenomenon, especially in April and May.

These areas will experience water scarcity three times harder than last year, he told The Irrawaddy.

Local charities like the Brighter Future Myanmar Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Kanbawza (KBZ) Group conglomerate, has been digging wells in Shan State and Upper Burma, and says it has spent 1.4 billion kyats (US$1.15 million) to import 32 water bowsers for distributing drinking water in drought-hit areas of Upper Burma.

The bowsers are aimed at distributing water in Upper Burma with the collaboration of local charities there. Our foundation contributed 12 while other well-wishers donated 20, Nang Lang Kham, the chairwoman of the foundation, told The Irrawaddy.

We hope to start our water distribution in early April, as soon as the bowsers arrive, she added.

Kyaw Thu, founder of Rangoons Free Funeral Service Society, said his Kyaw Thu Humanitarian Network had also ordered three bowsers from China to deliver drinking water not only in upcountry areas but also to Lower Burma. The network is now primarily working on potable water projects such as the digging of wells, in affiliation with the Brighter Future Myanmar Foundation.

We could start this week for Pakkoku, Kyauk Padaung in Upper Burma, Irrawaddy Division as well as near Rangoon in the lower part of the country, he said.

Beginning earlier this year, villages especially in Upper Burma have been grappling with water scarcities, prompting the governments Village Administration Department to ask for donations across the country for drought-hit areas.
Burma NCA Signatories Form Team to Steer Future Peace Process

The eight non-state armed groups that signed the outgoing governments nationwide ceasefire agreement form a new group to provide leadership throughout ongoing peace process negotiations.

CHIANG MAI, Thailand  Signatories to Burmas so-called nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) have formed a new group to engage in the peace process with the incoming National League for Democracy (NLD) government.

The eight non-state armed groups that signed the NCA with outgoing President Thein Seins government met at a summit in Chiang Mai, Thailand, and formed the Ethnic Armed Organizations Peace Process Steering Team (EAO PPST) on Saturday. The team intends to provide leadership for the eight signatories during future peace talks.

The team was formed to provide guidance in shaping policies and making important decisions, said Khun Okkar, a spokesperson for the summit.

The Karen National Union (KNU) chairman, Gen. Mutu Say Poe, will act as the team leader; Lt-Gen Yawd Serk, chairman of the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS), will serve as his deputy; and leaders of the NCA signatory groups will join the team as members.

PPST will continue with Union Peace Dialogue Joint Committee (UPDJC) and Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) initiatives implemented during Thein Seins administration, and engage in the peace process with the new government.

Phado Kwe Htoo Win, general secretary of the KNU, said he did not think the establishment of the team would be an obstacle to negotiations with the United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC), a block of nine ethnic non-signatories of the NCA.

Statements issued throughout the summit acknowledged the need for inclusive representation of all ethnic armed groups at each stage of a political dialogue begun on Jan. 12.

It would be extremely difficult to build complete peace without the involvement of all armed revolutionary organizations, said Pu Zing Cung, chairman of the Chin National Front (CNF).

The Delegation for Political Negotiation (DPN), representing the UNFC, and the Delegation for Ethnic Armed Organizations Unity (DEU), representing the signatories of the NCA, held an informal meeting in Chiang Mai on Sunday, but the gathering failed to deliver concrete results.

Weve discussed informally what we can do for signatories and non-signatories of the NCA to work together, and how to restore unity between us, Khaing Soe Naing Aung, the lead negotiator for the DEU, told reporters.

According to some attendees, the two sides are likely to meet again in April and political analysts suggest that the two sides may develop their peace policies based on the policy of the incoming government, which is believed to be announced by NLD President-elect Htin Kyaw in his inaugural address to the people after the power handover on March 30.
Burma New Chief Minister of Rangoon Looks to Improve Infrastructure

Rangoons new chief minister says he will focus on using local and foreign investment to ramp up infrastructure development in Burmas commercial capital.

RANGOON  Rangoons new chief minister said Monday he will focus on using local and foreign investment to ramp up the development of infrastructure in Burmas commercial capital.

A lawmaker for Hlegu Township, Phyo Min Thein was appointed Chief Minister of Rangoon by the National League for Democracy (NLD) during a divisional parliament session on Monday. He was elected to the Union Parliaments Lower House in Burmas 2012 by-election and went on to serve as a member of that chambers banking and finance development committee. Last year, he set his sights on regional governance, successfully contesting his Hlegu Township seat at the divisional level.

Phyo Min Thein told reporters after Mondays session that he would try to alleviate Rangoons problems regarding traffic congestion and the citys flawed drainage system, as well as address challenges faced by foreign investors.

Nay Phone Latt, a Rangoon divisional lawmaker for Thingangyun Township, said he welcomes Phyo Min Thein as the new chief minister and supports his ambitions.

Traffic jams in Rangoon should be a priority. He [Phyo Min Thein] should also look again at the previous governments quick approval of the privatization of lands and buildings [in Rangoon]. The previous government hired or sold these lands and buildings over a short period of time. This should be checked, Nay Phone Latt said.

[Phyo Min Thein] should also talk with businessmen here about creating jobs for young people, he added.

Naing Ngan Lin, a Thaketa Township lawmaker, echoed these sentiments.

If [Phyo Min Thein] can improve the poor drainage system in Rangoon, that will also solve other problems, such as flooding, traffic jams due to flooding and litter [on the streets], and it would also help to improve peoples health, Naing Ngan Lin said.

In a statement released on Monday, the Yangon Heritage Trust also said that it looks forward to working with the new regional administration.

The organizations chairman, Thant Myint-U, said he is confident that [Phyo Min Thein] will be a strong supporter of proper urban planning and conservation.

With a population of more than five million people, Rangoon is the largest of Burmas 14 divisions and states, and it is also the countrys historic and commercial capital.

The regions former chief minister, Myint Swe, will serve as the military-appointed vice president in the new national administration in Naypyidaw, alongside President-elect Htin Kyaw and Vice President-elect Henry Van Thio of the NLD.
Burma USDP Leader Given 6-Month Jail Sentence for Fake Suu Kyi Nude

A USDP official gets six months in prison under Burmas Telecommunications Law, after sharing a fake nude image of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

PATHEIN, Irrawaddy Division  A Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) official was sentenced to six months in prison with hard labor for sharing fake, altered images of the head of pro-democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi transposed onto the body of a naked woman.

After a four-month trial in Irrawaddy Divisions Kangyidaunt Township, the local court pronounced the joint secretary of the township USDP office, Than Tun, guilty under Article 66(d) of Burmas Telecommunications Law on Monday, after he shared the doctored photo of the pro-democracy leader, accompanied by vulgar text, online.

What else can I do? Than Tun asked The Irrawaddy following the verdict. It is the courts decision. I have not decided whether to appeal or not yet.

Shared by Facebook user Thu Thu on Sept. 2, the image quickly stirred up controversy. Sithu Aung, a volunteer with the Hand to Hand Free Education Network, filed the lawsuit against Than Tun in October, alleging that he was the owner of the account.

I am satisfied with the punishment. I think justice is served, said Sithu Aung, the plaintiff.

Mondays verdict is just the latest in a number of punishments handed out during outgoing President Thein Seins administration under the Telecommunications Law.

In December, National League for Democracy (NLD) supporter Chaw Sandi Tun was sentenced to six months in jail for sharing a photo on Facebook that likened newly redesigned Burma Army uniforms to apparel worn by Suu Kyi.

Kachin aid worker Patrick Khum Jaa Lee was also given a six-month sentence in January for allegedly sharing a photo of a man dressed in traditional Kachin attire stomping on Burma Army chief Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing.

The Telecommunications Law carries penalties of up to three years in prison for using a telecommunications network to extort, threaten, obstruct, defame, disturb, inappropriately influence or intimidate.
Interview Incoming Info Minister Pe Myint: I Will Ensure Press Freedom

The Irrawaddy tracks down the incoming cabinet member in Naypyidaw to discuss press freedom and prospects for Burmas state-owned and private media.

Born in 1949 in Thandwe, Arakan State, the ethnic Arakanese Pe Myint was approved by Parliament last week to serve as Burmas next information minister. The vice chairman of the Myanmar Press Council earned his medical degree from the Rangoon University of Medicine in 1975. He worked as a general physician until entering the literary sphere in 1988.

He has since established himself as a writer of renown in Burma, and is particularly known for his translated works on motivation and personal development. He won Burmas national literature award in 1995. The Irrawaddy tracked down the incoming cabinet member last week in Naypyidaw to discuss press freedom and prospects for Burmas state-owned and private media.

You are a journalist and an author. How much can you guarantee press freedom as you are set to become the next minister of information?

[Press freedom] concerns laws as well as how [they are] practiced. Media organizations have to strive for it. As a media man, I do want press freedom. I will make sure there is press freedom, in cooperation with my journalist peers.

There are currently journalists who are behind bars for various reasons. Will you work for their release when you become the minister?

I have just been approved [by Parliament] to take the ministerial post. We have not yet had a cabinet meeting and therefore, it is hard for me to say anything about this right now. Personally, I will try as hard as I can to make sure journalists are not punished for their work.

We now have a certain degree of press freedom for print media. But we still do not have freedom for broadcast media. Private media, like SkyNet, is working in partnership with the government. What measures will you take to help establish freedom for private broadcasters?

Currently, we have a Broadcasting Law in place, but there is controversy over the law. I will do my best to review the Broadcasting Law, and will consider the views of those who want to do broadcasting, existing broadcasters, the realities, the input of scholars and situations in other countries.

What role can government-run print media, like The Mirror and Myanmar Ahlin dailies, play under the new government? What is your plan for government-run broadcast media? Journalists are concerned that cronies will get the [rights to] state-run broadcasting if it is privatized.

It is still early to discuss this now. There are different points of view. Some say it should be privatized, and some say it should be transformed into public service media. So, we need to consider this, depending on the situation on the ground, popular opinion and the governments policy.

Do you have a plan to promote the role of radio, to help establish a community radio station?

These things will take shape gradually. Though we are not satisfied, there have been certain changes. Weekly news journals started to emerge four, five, six years ago, and private daily newspapers started to emerge about two years ago. Radio stations also emerged last year, and there have been calls for greater freedom in broadcast media. We are still in the process of transformation and there is still much room for improvement. The industry will be able to develop a lot in the future if the correct steps are taken.

Some media laws, such as the controversial Electronic Transactions Law, need to be changed. Will you try to change these laws?

Besides the Media Law, the Printing and Publishing Law, and the Broadcasting Law, there are several other laws under which journalists are subject to legal charges. These laws cover trespassing, the Official Secrets Act, and of course, the Electronic Transactions Law. We need to discuss what justifiable charges are for journalists under these laws.

How independent is the existing Myanmar Press Council?

I think it is an independent organization. It can be called a self-regulatory media body according to international terms. The association is useful as a mediator that works in line with journalistic ethics.

Under the existing laws, private media cant operate print and broadcast media at the same time; they are not allowed to have cross-ownership. But the government operates both print and broadcast media. The Tatmadaw [military] has cross ownership under the name of Myawaddy. What is your plan to address such imbalances?

There are different views and concepts about cross-ownership. Recent workshops have focused on it, and have also defined new concepts. They are, however, not complete, and we need to figure out what is acceptable to the majority.

While private media has to struggle to survive, state-owned media publishes with public funds and get lots of advertisements. What will you do to end the state-run medias monopoly?

I have not yet studied the details. I have just started studying the situation. But I can tell you that I will make sure the state-run media does not compete with private media for profits.

An Information Ministry no longer exists in most democracies. The NLD government has decided to keep the Information Ministry and there has been criticism. Do you think this ministry should still exist?

The government should run a department to communicate with the public. Even companies have a public relations department. People do not like the Information Ministry because it attacked dissidents in the past, restricted freedom of expression and imposed censorship. So, people dont like it. People would say it should no longer exist when the country becomes a democracy.

The government should have a department to communicate with the people, whether it is called the Information Ministry or something else, because the government is responsible for reporting what elected lawmakers are doing for the people. At the same time, it is also responsible for reporting what the government is doing for the people and how, as well as public criticisms. It has to publish these things for the knowledge of the government, lawmakers and the public.

In my view, state-run media should publish the opinions of the people as well as discussions with people who have political knowledge. In that regard, government-operated print and broadcast media can carry out the duties of the state.

There is an Information Ministry in countries like England, but they do not use that name anymore.

There was an Information Ministry in the US. They called it the USIA [United States Information Agency] and the USIS [US Information Service]. But as far as I know, they prefer to use the public affairs department now. I mean, there should and must be communication between the government and the people. We have to monitor it so that it does not function as propaganda.
Study Pinpoints IT Securitys Top Data Security Concerns

Everyone is susceptible to a data breach, even the companies that provide the rest of us with warnings and advice about why and how breaches happen and what we should be doing to better protect ourselves.

The Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report is perhaps the most thorough examination of cyber threats conducted each year. I know I refer to it over and over again. When I first started getting emails about the Verizon breach, I honestly thought it was about this years report. I was wrong. These alerts were about an attack on Verizon Enterprise Solutions that compromised approximately 1.5 million customers. According to eWeek:

Attackers used a flaw in the companys Web portal for enterprise customers to steal data on its clients, Verizon said. . . . While Verizon did not confirm that 1.5 million customers were impacted, a spokesperson stressed that consumer data was not part of the breach.

According to Brian Krebs, who broke the story, the information was being sold for $100,000 for the entire package or $10,000 for chunks of 100,000 records. The records were contact information of enterprise customers which, as Dodi Glenn, vice president of cyber security at PC Pitstop told me in an email comment, is considered a lot less valuable than customer proprietary network information. However, Glenn added this thought:

 this should be a concern for many, since the breach happened to a company that is known for helping out other companies during data breaches. Additionally, a lot of Fortune 500 companies use Verizon Enterprise Solutions  makes you wonder if some of those who purchased the data may have plans to use the information to start phishing attacks, since it contains information from companies with lots of money.

Chris Wysopal, CTO with Veracode, told me via email that the Verizon breach is a good example of why application security needs to be a priority, especially managing the web perimeter, as this is almost always the easiest way to gain access to a company. Wysopal added:

The issue for most companies is the lack of insight into how large their perimeter actually is. In fact, over the last two years, weve found more than 350,000 websites that our customers didnt even know they owned. Most companies have a very difficult time managing this issue as it generally falls somewhere between the web team, marketing, regional teams and the security team  and that basically means no one is looking after it.

This breach goes to show that no matter how aware you are, your data and network are always at some risk. Bad guys are good at finding their way in if you leave your guard down just the smallest bit.

Sue Marquette Poremba has been writing about network security since 2008. In addition to her coverage of security issues for IT Business Edge, her security articles have been published at various sites such as Forbes, Midsize Insider and Toms Guide. You can reach Sue via Twitter: @sueporemba
2016 Business Communications: Changing the Way We Work

For enterprises that are planning for the digital transformation that will place data-driven workflows across all facets of business and commerce, I have bad news  the transformation is not coming but is already underway.

You can see it in companies like Uber and Tesla, which are using wireless technology, advanced applications and cloud-based services to disrupt long-standing industries to their cores, forcing many leading companies to either revamp their business models in record time or face obsolescence.

Clearly, few organizations can do this without help, which is why the news this morning about Dells intention to sell its IT consulting division to Japanese telecommunications firm NTT is so odd. True, the company needs to raise quick cash in order to finance its $67 billion takeover of EMC, but at $3.06 billion, the sale already falls short of the $3.9 billion that Dell paid for the former Perot Systems in 2009. And at a time when virtually every industry on the planet is in the grip of a transformation that will affect everything from IT systems to sales, marketing, finance and virtually all other business processes, it seems that demand for consulting services is about to go through the roof.

To get an idea of the magnitude of the change taking place, consider three of the overarching trends that are already taking shape, says IBMs Dario Debarbieri. First, you have the Internet of Things, which will generate a flood of data from virtually everything we own and will force organizations to push processing and analytics from centralized data facilities to edge devices. Second, you have the creation of the app-driven economy, which will require the development of advanced APIs and collaborative workflows. And third, you have the rise of cognitive computing technology that will develop for itself a high degree of autonomy to troubleshoot problems and identify new business opportunities through the wealth of data at its disposal.

And it isnt so much the deployment of these new technologies that poses the biggest challenge, but their integration into both legacy and emerging architectures. According to a recent survey by Unisys, 48 percent of IT leaders rank integration and support of analytics as a top challenge going forward, while 43 percent are looking at integrating on-premises and cloud-based applications as a top priority. Perhaps most telling, however, is the fact that newer service-based companies like Uber and Airbnb are not quite so worried about integration, primarily because they have little or no legacy data infrastructure to integrate. For everyone else, however, embracing the new without disrupting the old is a complicated task, and one that all but mandates outside help.

The biggest trap to avoid, says Graham Clark, of IT services management firm NIIT Technologies, is focusing on the process of transformation rather than the outcome. While it may be tempting to launch a mobile app, set up a Twitter feed, tie it to a cloud, run a weekly analytics report and call it a transformation, the real prize is in redefining the business operating model around digital processes so that the enterprise becomes more agile and less costly to support with data infrastructure. This can put many organizations on a razors edge because it must revolutionize how a company operates without severing ties to legacy systems and processes all at once. At the same time, it must encompass multiple business assets, such as products, markets and brands, not to mention the underlying business culture, key skillsets and even the very idea of ownership and where revenue streams originate and who controls them.

So while the technology is important in all of this, organizations will find themselves more in need of guidance than anything else. A company like Dell will have ample supplies of the former, particularly with EMC under its belt, but without a strong consulting and services wing, it will be at the mercy of those who are being paid to tell the enterprise how to proceed with digital transformation.

Dell, of course, is a large company and has ample expertise at its disposal with which it can guide the enterprise through this process, but at a time when a good consultant is worth his weight in gold, it seems odd that the company would weaken this aspect of its business model, and at a loss no less.

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.
Chinese computing giant Lenovo has announced a massive global restructure across all of its divisions including mobile, PCs, and enterprise business.

Lenovo announced this week it is undertaking the following structural and leadership changes at a global level in an effort to drive stronger innovation, more customer-centric products and experiences, and fast growth:

1. The PC Group will undertake a significant realignment, becoming Lenovo's PC & Smart Device Business Group, responsible for delivering PCs, detachables, tablets, phablets, gaming and smart home products across Windows, Chrome and Android based products.

2. The Enterprise Business Group will become the Data Center Group (DCG). As an end-to-end business within Lenovo, DCG will be empowered to move faster and more freely, while also efficiently leveraging the Lenovo Group's scale and assets where needed.

3. The Mobile Business Group has unique advantages to compete globally and win globally: with a stronghold in China, powerful brands, worldwide sales channels and a robust IP portfolio. To maximise these advantages, Lenovo will have have two co-presidents of MBG, one for China (Xudong Chen) and one for the rest of the world (Aymar de Lencquesaing).

As part of these changes, current Asia Pacific President Roderick Lappin has been promoted to Senior Vice President and will take on a new role as Head of Global Sales for DCG. Ken Wong, who currently leads global corporate strategy and planning for MBG and Lenovo overall, will take over as Senior Vice President for Asia Pacific.

Ken Wong has served in a multitude of global executive leadership positions over the last twenty years in Lenovo, including as General Manager for Asia Pacific Emerging Markets prior to his current global strategy role. He has extensive experience in several core aspects of business operations, spanning product operations, services, sales and marketing across complex and diverse geographies.

These changes are effective on April 1st 2016, and will have minimal impact on Lenovo's customers and partners. The Lenovo Asia Pacific team will continue to focus on exceeding customer expectations and delivering a world-class, end-to-end portfolio of technology innovations to the market.
Indiana University Northwest Chancellor William J. Lowe and Interim Superintendent of Public Safety Bob True have announced the appointment of Lt. Wayne James as Chief of the Indiana University Police Department (IUPD) at IU Northwest.

James will be responsible for 14 sworn officers, as well as a team of personnel including several dispatchers. As head of the IU Northwest Police Department, James will provide leadership, direction and oversight for all campus enforcement functions. He will serve on various university, local and state law enforcement committees and act as liaison between the campus department and local municipal agencies and courts, while continuing to build partnerships with other jurisdictions.

James will also plan for and train his staff to respond to major campus crisis events and incidents through his role on the campuss crisis management team.

James, who has been serving as interim chief, has been lauded for his law enforcement experience, community involvement and effective relationships with surrounding law enforcement organizations.

Chief James relationships with local law enforcement and federal agencies, as well as the dedication of our well-trained, experienced officers, have made our campus one of the safest in Indiana, said Chancellor Lowe. We look forward to his continued leadership to enhance the safety and security of the IU Northwest campus, as well as the surrounding community.

In his nearly 13 years working in law enforcement, James has served in various capacities, including patrol officer, patrol sergeant, detective and detective sergeant, corporal, operations and executive lieutenant, SWAT officer and, most recently, interim chief. For a short period, he served as IUPD chief at IU Kokomo.

As a native of Gary, Ind., James has great experience and interest in community policing, employing best practices on the IU Northwest campus. He serves as the current President of the Northwest Indiana Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE).

I look forward to continuing to serve the campus and the City of Gary, as well as collaborating with local agencies to provide a safe and secure learning environment, said James. My fellow officers and I remain committed to making IU Northwest the safest campus in Indiana.

James earned a bachelors degree in Public Safety Management from Calumet College of Saint Joseph and is a graduate of both the Northwestern University Police Staff and Command School and the Police Executive Leadership Academy. He is a certified Indiana law enforcement instructor specializing in community engagement, active shooter, building entries and general instruction.

Throughout his career, James has received several awards, commendations, and recognitions for excellence. In July of 2012, he received a Medal of Valor as well as a commendation award for a SWAT call. He has received numerous other awards for officer of the year and drug investigations during his previous roles before coming to the Northwest campus.

The campus is currently planning an official swearing-in ceremony for James in April. Details are forthcoming.
Today

Mostly clear skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low around 65F. Winds W at 25 to 35 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low around 65F. Winds W at 25 to 35 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.

Tomorrow

Mainly sunny. High 81F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.
It seems that the famous South Korean multinational conglomerate company, Samsung, will be launching two new mid-range smartphone devices. In fact, latest reports claimed that a new Samsung Galaxy J5 and a Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 have emerged online.

The rumored Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 official photos, however, were believed to have been leaked by German website WinFuture. And based on the leaked images, the Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 will have a sleek and metallic build.

In addition, the new Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 will be slightly larger compared to its predecessors. However, its design features make it a clone from the previous versions.

Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 Specs

Rumors have it that the new Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 will feature a 5.5-inch Full HD Super AMOLED display with a 1920 x 1080 screen resolution and 401 ppi pixel density, which is a bit bigger that the original Galaxy J7 released last year, Christian Today notes. The new phone will also carry an octa-core 1.6 GHz Exynos 7870 processor and ARM Mali-T830 GPU.

The new Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 also have 3 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage, which can be expandable to 128 GB via microSD support.

Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 Other Features

Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 also boasts other features. These reportedly include a 13-megapixel rear camera, a 5-megapixel front-facing camera and a large 3,300 mAh battery. According to Ecumenical News, rumors have it that the upcoming Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 will most likely come preloaded with the current Android 6.0 Marshmallow OS.

Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 Price and Release Date

Taking into consideration the rumored specifications and other features of the new Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 smartphone, its price point is expected to be in the $300 range. As for its release date, Phone Radar hints that it might be launched by the end of next month.

Meanwhile, the images of the new Samsung Galaxy J7 2016 also reportedly appeared at the FCC and China's TENAA, Geeky Gadgets reports. Unfortunately, Samsung has not release any official announcement yet.
Did you know the reason why science and religion don't mix? Well, an interesting study recently revealed that the age-old conflict between scientific evidence and religious beliefs exists because of human brain's certain characteristics.

In a study published in the journal PLOS One, a team of scientists have discovered that critical thinking is suppressed in the brains of people who believe in the supernatural. According to International Business Times, the study also observed how the parts of the brain responsible for empathy and analytical reasoning were connected to faith and spiritual thinking.

Furthermore, the research hinted that the conflict between religious beliefs and scientific thinking exist because different brain areas were tangled in both cognitive processes. And when the brain shuts off the analytic network and creates a social and emotional atmosphere in the mind, warm feelings go into the equation rather than cold rationality.

"From what we understand about the brain, the leap of faith to belief in the supernatural amounts to pushing aside the critical/analytical way of thinking to help us achieve greater social and emotional insight," Case Western Reserve philosophy professor, Inamori International Center of Ethics and Excellence research director and lead author Tony Jack stated, as per I4U News.

Richard Boyatzis, Case Western Reserve's notable organizational behavior professor and a member of Jack's team, also added that a series of research in cognitive psychology also claimed that people who have faith (religious or spiritual) were not as "smart as others." In fact, study showed that they were "less intelligent."

"Our studies confirmed that statistical relationship, but at the same time showed that people with faith are more prosocial and empathic," Boyatzis added.

In the latest study, researchers conducted a series of eight experiments, which meant to compare religious beliefs with measures of analytic thinking and moral concern. As a result, the research found that the more empathetic the person is, the more likely he or she is religious, Headlines and Global News notes.

"Having empathy doesn't mean you necessarily have anti-scientific beliefs," research assistant and cognitive science and philosophy graduate Jared Friedman said. "Instead, our results suggest that if we only emphasize analytic reasoning and scientific beliefs, then we are compromising our ability to cultivate a different type of thinking, namely social/moral insight."

The recent study also emphasized that some of the great scientists in history were also very spiritual individuals. And through their religious beliefs, Jack believed that it paved the way in "positively promoting scientific creativity and insight."

"Many of history's most famous scientists were spiritual or religious," Jack concluded. "Those noted individuals were intellectually sophisticated enough to see that there is no need for religion and science to come into conflict."

Since the debate about science and religion is generally perceived as a rivalry between worldviews, Jack urged to remember simple rules to avoid the conflict. According to Jack's rules, religion can't explain the physical structure of the world and while science can advise ethical reasoning, it can't "determine what is ethical" or "tell how people should construct meaning and purpose of life," EurekAlert! learns.
California Lawmakers and labor unions are expected to make a formal announcement on a tentative deal to raise the statewide minimum wage to $15 an hour gradually by 2023.

While the state's current minimum wage - $10 an hour - ranks among the highest in the country, the statewide increase would represent a historic victory for labor unions and advocates. The deal would involve gradual increases, raising the hourly minimum wage by 50 cents in 2017 and 2018 and then by $1 through 2022. Businesses with fewer than 25 employees would have an extra year to comply, delaying their workers receiving a $15 hourly wage until 2023, The Los Angeles Times reports.

Gov. Jerry Brown's administration has told leaders in the Democratic-controlled state Legislature he supports boosting the state's minimum wage. The wage compromise ends a long debate between the Democratic governor and some of the state's most powerful labor unions. For Brown, it's political pragmatism; numerous statewide polls have suggested voters would approve a minimum wage proposal - perhaps even a more sweeping version - if given the chance.

State Senator Mark Leno, (D-San Francisco), told The Associated Press that, if approved, the deal will "go before the Legislature as part of his minimum-wage bill that stalled last year."

"This is not a done deal," Leno cautioned, adding that "everyone's been operating in good faith."

Until now, efforts had largely been focused on the local level. Seattle, Los Angeles and San Francisco have all opted to phase in $15-an-hour minimum wages in coming years.

States appear to be the next battleground. Lawmakers in New York are in advanced discussions to bring that state's minimum wage to $15 an hour, from $9 now. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, is trying to include a vote in the Legislature on the measure as part of the state's budget, due April 1, although details are still under negotiations.
At the beginning of his presidency, Barack Obama traveled to Cairo, Europe and the United Nations to apologize for past American actions and attitudes, which he claimed helped create divisions between countries. At a town hall meeting before a mix of French and German citizens in Strasbourg, France, on April 3, 2009, the president said the United States was partially to blame for increased tensions with Europe following the Iraq war: there have been times where America (has) shown arrogance and been dismissive, even derisive toward Europe.

Mitt Romney and other critics quickly dubbed these and similar remarks his apology tour.

With the presidents visit to Havana, Cuba, last week, that tour has come full circle. In response to a question about Cubas human rights policies during a joint news conference, Cuban President Raul Castro criticized the United States for what he asserted was Americas violation of human rights. Castro engaged in a form of moral equivalency when he asserted that the denial of health care and education for all and equal pay for women was somehow similar to the jailing of political dissidents. Castro claimed Cuba pays women the same as men. Yes, and it is called equally shared poverty, which is a good definition of the communist form of government and its economic policies.

In response to this smear, President Obama said, I personally would not disagree with him. Score another propaganda victory for communist Cuba.

Responding to a reporters question about political prisoners, Castro seemed to channel Baghdad Bob, the spokesman for Saddam Hussein, who claimed U.S. forces were not in Iraq as TV cameras showed them advancing on Baghdad behind him. Castro denied Cuba holds political prisoners, but then told another reporter, ... give me a list of the political prisoners and I will release them immediately.

The reporter didnt have a list, but several human rights organizations do. Given Cubas record of oppression (an estimated 50 human rights advocates were arrested prior to President Obamas visit and a women in white demonstration was broken up by police), the release of anyone from Cubas notorious prisons is about as likely as a democratic political system sprouting up in the country to challenge the communist dictatorship.

President Obama promised aid to Cuba, from help in connecting its citizens to the Internet to trade. Business leaders who accompanied the president on the trip are anxious to build hotels and conduct other business in Cuba. The upside of this is that it might produce more openness in a society that has been closed for more than 50 years. The downside is that any prosperity will be used by the Cuban government to underwrite revolutions throughout Latin America; just as giving Iran its frozen assets will most assuredly facilitate the growth of terrorism throughout the world.

While the light of democracy can dispel the darkness of dictatorship, a light can be extinguished if its power source dims. So far, the U.S. has received nothing in return for the presidents initiative and his claim of a new beginning in the U.S.-Cuban relationship.

The new beginning President Obama pledged for the Middle East in his Cairo speech has not reversed or even slowed the old turmoil that never seems to end. Will it be different in Cuba? From Raul Castros remarks and the presidents partial agreement with him, the signs do not provide cause for optimism.
BEND IN THE YADKIN RIVER which wraps around Ronda, is how the town got its name, say most sources. The view is from the Roundabout Farm, former home of Col. Ben Cleveland, leader of the Wilkes County militia in the American Revolution.
Farmers made great progress in spring tillage and planting last week, thanks to an excellent week of weather. But confidence in the agribusiness sector is down. Credit: Seth Perlman

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Spring is usually a time for optimism for farmers as they look forward to another crop, but not this year.

Low commodity prices, high operating costs and low income projections have left farmers more pessimistic than they have been in years, according to a new DTN/The Progressive Farmer Agriculture Confidence Index released Monday.

The confidence index, based on a March survey of 500 crop and livestock farmers, fell nearly 15 points to 94.5 from 109.1 a year ago. A score below 100 signifies pessimism, according to DTN, an agricultural information service based in Omaha, Neb.

Eighty-six percent of the farmers surveyed said they believe that their income will stay the same or go down over the next 12 months.

"Farmers continue to struggle with balancing high input costs and low crop prices. With ongoing global (row crop) surpluses, farmers see little hope to improve incomes this year," said DTN Markets Editor Katie Micik, director of the confidence index.

Forty-five percent of the surveyed farmers described their current income as "bad," and livestock-producer confidence fell for the fifth time in the last six surveys.

The past year has been difficult for Wisconsin dairy farmers as the price they receive for their milk has fallen for several reasons, including weak exports of dairy products.

The price for Class III milk, used to make cheese, recently fell below $14 per hundred pounds  down more than 40% from a peak in September 2014.

Even when milk prices return to normal, it could take a couple of years for dairy farmers to recover.

It could take a major disruption of grain markets for those prices to recover, as the markets are flooded with grain from last fall's harvest.

"It will have to be something very widespread in order to make a difference in the supply situation, which is what's really driving the markets," Micik said.

Confidence in agricultural businesses, a category which includes equipment manufacturers such as John Deere Co., has tumbled dramatically, according to the DTN survey.

"While expectations about future conditions have trended negative the past two years, agribusiness pessimism reached an index low of 79.9 in the latest survey. As a result, agribusinesses have a gloomy outlook about profitability and sales," Micik said.

Seventy-six percent of agribusinesses rated their current profitability as "bad or normal," compared with 66% in December and 60% a year ago.

"The drop in agribusiness confidence is a direct result of crop producer cutbacks on equipment purchases and crop inputs. As a result, 28% of agribusinesses expect sales to get worse," Micik said.
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Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin have agreed to form a joint department for biomedical engineering and committed to hiring a total of 10 additional faculty members in the discipline.

The department, which builds on their existing partnership, would combine Marquette's strengths in research and engineering with the Medical College's strengths in research and clinical programs.

"We recognized that the engineering strength of this area is quite remarkable," said John Raymond Sr., a physician and president and chief executive officer of the Medical College.

He stressed that the Medical College also will continue to work with the Milwaukee School of Engineering and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Biomedical engineering applies engineering principles to medicine and biology. Examples include pacemakers, defibrillators and artificial joints.

The joint department could give Marquette engineering students more access to the physicians and scientists at the Medical College.

It also could give researchers at Marquette better access to grants from the National Institutes of Health and researchers at the Medical College better access to grants from the National Science Foundation, Raymond said.

In addition, drawing on the resources of both schools could result in stronger grant proposals and enable researchers to apply for larger grants.

"It will help strengthen biomedical research in southeastern Wisconsin," said Kristina Ropella, dean of the Opus College of Engineering at Marquette.

Ropella, whose research has focused on biosignal processing, bioinstrumentation and medical imaging, was chairwoman of the department of biomedical engineering from 2004 to 2013.

Marquette has about 400 undergraduate students and 50 graduate students studying biomedical engineering. Its engineering school has about 1,225 undergraduate and 300 graduate students.

The school has long been a source of engineers for GE Healthcare, which employs more than 6,000 people in Wisconsin, and for biomedical companies such as Gauthier Biomedical and Mortara Instrument.

The new Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin biomedical engineering department will be overseen by both schools and will offer undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Undergraduates will be based at Marquette and earn Marquette degrees. Graduate students will be based at both schools and earn degrees from Marquette and the Medical College, with the seal of both schools on the diploma.

Each school has committed to adding five people to its faculty. Marquette now has 13 people in its biomedical engineering department.

Marquette and the Medical College offer a joint master's in bioinformatics and health care technologies management.

Bioinformatics combines mathematics, statistics, computer science and engineering to analyze large amounts of biological data. Health care technologies management is designed to supplement students' technical backgrounds with coursework in business and management, including the economic, legal, ethical and regulatory aspects of health care. The two schools also offer a joint doctorate program in functional imaging.

The biomedical department is partly an outgrowth of grants from National Institutes of Health in 2010 and 2015 for the Clinical and Translational Science Institute of Southeastern Wisconsin, a consortium of eight institutions that share technology and expertise.

The members of the consortium are the Medical College, BloodCenter of Wisconsin, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Clement Zablocki VA Medical Center, Froedtert Hospital, Marquette University, Milwaukee School of Engineering and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Concordia University is an affiliate of the institute.
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City officials believe an apartment high-rise proposed for Milwaukee's east side has too many units, and the developer is revising his plans to obtain approval.

Madison developer Chris Houden wants to build a 202-unit luxury apartment tower at the site of the Goll House, 1550 N. Prospect Ave.

Houden would move the 1898 mansion, now used as offices, about 30 feet northwest from its current location so the 26-story apartment building could be developed. The Goll House would be renovated into a small number of additional apartments.

Houden, co-owner of Palisade Property Management LLC, has filed plans with the Milwaukee Department of City Development that show a building with seven levels of parking, including three levels underground. The apartments would be on floors five through 26.

The building would include a rooftop terrace, a fifth-floor swimming pool and 2,000 square feet of street-level commercial space. Most of the apartments would be evenly split between one- and two-bedroom units, with a small number of three-bedroom units.

The $55 million project would need Common Council approval.

However, city development officials have concerns about the building's density, said department spokesman Jeff Fleming. He declined to elaborate, saying department officials are continuing their discussions with Houden.

Houden, in a statement, said his development team "is incorporating suggestions from city staff and the community on the project, and look forward to coming back to the city with a modified design in the coming weeks."

Around 60 nearby residents attended a recent community meeting to discuss the proposal, and all of them were opposed to it, said Alderman Robert Bauman, whose district includes the site.

The neighborhood residents said they were worried about the impact on traffic and parking from adding a large number of new residents to Prospect Avenue, Bauman said. He said the building could house more than 500 people under its current design.

Some residents, including people living in the neighboring 1522 On The Lake condo building, at 1522 N. Prospect Ave., acknowledge that strong demand for new housing means the site will likely be developed, Bauman said.

But they want the project to have fewer units, he said.

New Land Enterprises LLP in 2008 received city zoning approval to develop a 26-story, 35-unit condominium tower at the site. That project, named Transera, did not obtain financing.

A Common Council review of Houden's proposal would occur only if plans to move the former mansion first receive Historic Preservation Commission approval. The commission is to review that request at its April 12 meeting. But Houden might seek to postpone that review, said Carlen Hatala, a city historic preservation planner.

Meanwhile, the council is to vote Tuesday on developer James Wiechmann's proposed 13-story, 153-unit apartment building at 1832 and 1840 N. Farwell Ave. A four-story office building at that site would be demolished for the project, which would include a 215-space parking structure.

That new $33 million building would feature a four-story portion with street-level retail space, second-floor offices, a third-floor fitness center, and a community room and outdoor terrace on the top floor. It has been recommended for approval by the Plan Commission and the council's Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee.

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Bertilla Baker, Amelia Cormack and Maiesha McQueen perform in the Milwaukee Repertory Theaters Sirens of Song. Credit: Michael Brosilow

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In Greek mythology, the Sirens are a nightmarish male creation reflecting men's fear of women; they resemble Harpies and sing men to their death, luring and then entrapping them.

All of which makes "Sirens of Song" an odd title for the disorganized and disappointing world premiere unveiled by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater Sunday night in the Stackner Cabaret, where three "sirens" are singing an earnest feel-good message of female empowerment that can feel like a preachy sermon to an audience of the already converted.

It's easily the weakest Stackner show during Mark Clements' six-year tenure as the Rep's artistic director, during which one of the Rep's many strengths has been the markedly high quality of its Stackner programming.

Conceived and directed by Kevin Ramsey (with text by Kevin and Pearl Ramsey), "Sirens" is in trouble from the start.

A confusing introduction brings our trio (Bertilla Baker, Amelia Cormack and Maiesha McQueen) to earth from some distant elsewhere. Caped and masked, they look like refugees from a masquerade ball. A reference, perhaps, to the role masquerade historically played in liberating women to become other selves? Hard to tell and never really explained.

Ditto the transformation of these alien beings into full-fledged women; we're told at the top of the show that they can't imagine what it's actually like to be women rather than immortal beings. They nevertheless become women at some point; I couldn't tell you where or how.

The awkward introductions done, we move into an often dreary, two-hour history lesson  some of it delivered by authoritative, piped-in male voices.

Despite brief references to women like Sojourner Truth and Charlotte Perkins Gilman, most of that history  focused on the 20th century in the United States  involves depthless, trivia-level lists and generalizations purporting to characterize the meaning of entire decades, interspersed with predictable moments like the Great Depression, Pearl Harbor and the assassination of the Kennedys and King.

Musically, "Sirens" compounds the error of its sweeping history lessons, trying to cover everything from hymns to disco while providing little context and making awkward transitions.

It doesn't help that Cormack  far and away what's best about this show  has a better voice and more captivating persona than either of her onstage sisters. She's the lead or standout in nearly all of the night's highlights, including "St. Louis Blues," a gorgeous "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," a stirring "You'll Never Walk Alone" and a sizzling "Hot Stuff."

Cormack exudes the slinky languor of a big cat, quietly confident in her seemingly effortless power to bring it and dominate the room every time she opens her mouth. It may be Baker who sings Helen Reddy's "I Am Woman," but it's Cormack who we consistently hear roar.

IF YOU GO

"Sirens of Song" continues through May 29 at the Stackner Cabaret, 108 E. Wells St. For tickets, visit www.milwaukeerep.com or call (414) 224-9490. Read more about this production at TapMilwaulee.com.

TAKEAWAYS

Nina Simone: This trio's best group effort involved a wrenching rendition of Nina Simone's "Four Women," Simone's chronicle of the tribulations of four women who have collectively endured slavery, prostitution, abuse and the vicissitudes of life as a domestic servant. Sung here with unadorned simplicity and quiet rage, this number suggested how much more and better this show could have been if it had slowed down, chosen a theme and then taken its time developing it. One might take a cue from the history of Simone's great song, which has in fact been turned into a play.

Bombs, Bombs, Bombs: Much of what passes for history in "Sirens" revolves around various wars, which continually interrupt the story while providing the women with an introduction to pacifist songs such as "I Didn't Raise My Boy to Be a Soldier." As with so much in this show, its pacifist message is presented relentlessly and reductively; one can agree with the sentiment and still be turned off by its presentation or its simplifications (all wars are always wrong; only men fight wars; all women are mothers; etc.).

"Shout" With a Twist: Particularly in the second half of the show  presented ever less stiffly and piously, as we move closer to contemporary songs and styles  the trio tend to bend the songs they sing. In a medley of girl group songs, for example, "Chapel of Love" is sung at a slowed speed that undercuts its buoyancy.

Life Begins at Forty: Another of the themes hit early and often in "Sirens" is that women come in many shapes, colors and sizes, notwithstanding the one-size-fits-all corset over which the onstage trio marvels near the top of the show. In terms of age, race and body shape, the sirens look nothing like each other  or like the classic, male-created image of female beauty. The older, plus-sized Baker makes this point with spot-on wit and sexy charm in singing "Life Begins at 40."

The Yellow Wallpaper: This show not only incorporates Charlotte Perkins Gilman into the script, but even pays homage to her through Scott Davis' scenic design, in which peeling wallpaper calls to mind Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper"  a metaphor there and here for all that goes unseen beneath the decorous surface of everyday life. On the upstage Stackner wall, that wallpaper serves as a palimpsest; dig down and one sees traces of women whose stories have been written over and marginalized, driving home what the audience is told just before curtain: history is her story, too.
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John McAdams won't say he was wrong.

The politically conservative Marquette University associate professor ignited a firestorm in November 2014 by publicly rebuking a teaching assistant by name after she wouldn't allow a student to voice opposition to gay marriage in a broader ethics class discussion.

McAdams drew a line against admitting guilt in his Marquette Warrior blog on Saturday  the same blog where the controversy began.

But in an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Monday, McAdams did say: "If I had been able to foresee she'd get a lot of nasty emails, I probably wouldn't have named her."

His actions were "perfectly defensible," McAdams said, "because when someone is guilty of misconduct, you name them."

McAdams said he never expected his blog item about teaching assistant/graduate student Cheryl Abbate to blow up into a national controversy, or for Abbate to be harassed with nasty emails. But in hindsight, "it fit into a broader narrative about political correctness on college campuses," he said. "Gay marriage also is a hot-button issue."

Marquette President Michael Lovell last week announced that he would implement the unanimous recommendation of a faculty committee that reviewed McAdams' case.

But with one addition.

While the faculty committee recommended suspending the political science professor with benefits but no pay through fall 2016, Lovell further required McAdams to admit within two weeks that he was wrong, or he would not be reinstated after serving his suspension, according to McAdams.

McAdams said in his weekend blog post that Lovell demanded he acknowledge his 2014 blog post about the exchange between the graduate student instructor and a student "was reckless and incompatible with the mission and values of Marquette University" and that he "express deep regret for the harm suffered by our former graduate student and instructor, Ms. Abbate."

Abbate left the university to complete her graduate work elsewhere after an online petition drew support for her from professors and other teaching assistants around the world.

In his blog post over the weekend, McAdams said Lovell's demands were "reminiscent of the Inquisition, in which victims who 'confessed' they had been consorting with Satan and spreading heresy would be spared execution."

In addition to admitting wrongdoing, McAdams said, the Marquette administration is asking him to affirm and commit "that your future actions and behavior will adhere to the standards of higher education as defined in the Marquette University Faculty Handbook, Mission Statement and Guiding Values" if he wants to return to the faculty.

"The addition of a demand that we abase ourself and issue an apology and sign a loyalty oath to vaguely defined 'guiding values' and to the university's 'mission' is obviously a ploy by Marquette to give the administration an excuse to fire us," McAdams wrote in his blog post.

"They have calculated, correctly, that we will do no such thing."

Lovell said his decision was guided by Marquette University's values "and is solely based on Professor McAdams' actions, and not political or ideological views expressed in his blog."

The faculty hearing committee that reviewed McAdams' case found that Marquette had suspended him in violation of his due process rights and disagreed with the university's desire to fire him, according to McAdams' attorney, Rick Esenberg.

The decision on whether to apologize is up to his client, but the matter could well be headed toward litigation, Esenberg said.

"He's not going to admit to something he believes is untrue," said Esenberg of the conservative public interest law firm Wisconsin Law & Liberty. "That's not John McAdams."

McAdams has remained on the payroll since he was suspended and banned from campus in December 2014, but he has not taught classes since then.
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Iowa City, Iowa Three people from Wisconsin or Illinois who are charged with operating a car insurance fraud ring can be prosecuted in Iowa, even though they never set foot in the state, the Iowa Supreme Court ruled Friday.

Police say the trio staged fake car accidents in Chicago and then filed bogus claims with multiple insurance companies. They were charged in Iowa after an investigation by Davenport, Iowa-based employees of Sentry Insurance uncovered one alleged scheme that involved an estimated $50,000 that insurers paid for repeated claims covering the same damage.

The defendants  Demetrius Rimmer, 44 of Milwaukee and Chicago-area residents Rona Murphy, 47 and Melonicka Thomas, 56  were arrested in their home states in 2013 and extradited to face the charges in Iowa.

Their attorneys asked the judge to dismiss the charges, which included ongoing criminal conduct, theft, conspiracy, fraudulent submission and fraudulent practices. They argued that Iowa didn't have jurisdiction since the 2012 accident at issue was in Illinois and the alleged victim, Sentry Insurance, is headquartered in Stevens Point, Wis. They argued that none of the suspects had been to Iowa, that they had no idea the Sentry employees who interviewed them about claims were in Davenport, and that Illinois authorities declined to prosecute the case.

District Judge Mary Howes dismissed the case in 2013, ruling that the defendants hadn't "sought out the state of Iowa to allegedly perpetrate this crime" and that no harm occurred in Iowa.

In a 7-0 ruling, the high court disagreed Friday and reinstated four of five charges against the defendants, allowing the case to proceed.

"The state can show that these crimes occurred in part in Iowa based on the defendants' phone calls with the insurer's Davenport employee, deceiving him into authorizing payment of false insurance claims," Justice Thomas Waterman wrote.

The Sentry employee authorized payments of $11,000 based on claims that their vehicles were involved in a three-way accident in Chicago in which Thomas allegedly suffered whiplash. But the claims were reviewed for fraud by another Davenport employee of Sentry, who uncovered the same claims had been submitted to other insurers and numerous inconsistencies in their stories. He turned the case over to Davenport police, who filed a criminal complaint.

Waterman said the defendants' ignorance that they were talking to Iowa-based insurance representatives doesn't get them out of prosecution in Iowa. He said the alleged fraud was conduct "that the defendants knew or should have known was illegal in any state."

"We conclude that persons engaged in multistate insurance fraud assume the risk of prosecution wherever those they deceive are located. A contrary holding would impede the state's ability to prosecute and deter multistate insurance fraud schemes perpetrated on persons in Iowa," he wrote.

Scott County Attorney Michael Walton praised the ruling, saying it confirms "the crimes did occur here."

Defense attorneys didn't immediately return messages seeking comment.

The court dismissed the fraudulent practices count, saying there was no evidence that the three submitted false certificates in Iowa, an element of the charge.
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Milwaukee police say investigators will meet with prosecutors on Monday to see if charges are warranted in a sudden infant death case recently ruled a homicide.

The 3-month-old girl, India Gilmore, died Nov. 7 at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin after police were called to a home in the 2000 block of W. Atkinson Ave. for a report of a sick or injured child the night before. The infant's father told authorities he found the child unresponsive in a car seat on his bed.

India died from blunt force injuries to her head and had healing rib fractures, according to a medical examiner's report released last week.

Police arrested her parents shortly after her death, but neither has been charged, according online court records.
President Barack Obama meets with Cuban President Raul Castro at the Palace of the Revolution on March 21. Credit: Associated Press

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President Barack Obama wanted last week's headlines to focus on a U.S. diplomatic triumph, his opening of a new relationship with Cuba. But his upbeat moment in Havana was eclipsed by terrorist bombs in Brussels and fears of more attacks to come. That turn of events captured, in an instant, Obama's foreign policy record: success in diplomacy, frustration at war.

Obama has notched up some genuine achievements with his diplomatic strategy of engagement: the opening to Cuba, a nuclear agreement with Iran and a stronger alliance with Vietnam and other countries in Southeast Asia.

He's been strikingly less effective at combining diplomacy with force to stabilize parts of the world where the players aren't as interested in peaceful engagement  mainly the battle zones of the Middle East.

Seven years into his presidency, he's still reacting against the errors of his predecessor, George W. Bush. "What I think is not smart is the idea that every time there is a problem, we send in our military to impose order," he told Jeffrey Goldberg of the Atlantic in a recent interview.

He's right, of course; that wouldn't be smart. But it's also a straw man. Even Sen. John McCain, Washington's most enthusiastic interventionist, doesn't advocate troops "every time there is a problem."

And Obama's resistance to intervention has come at a cost. Not only the usual critics, but also some veterans of his administration argue that his hasty withdrawal from Iraq and his refusal to support the armed opposition in Syria gave the Islamic State terrorist group the room it needed to grow before the White House noticed it in 2014.

"Obama feared a slippery slope in going up against Bashar Assad in Syria, but the war against Islamic State is the slipperiest slope of them all," former State Department official Tamara Wittes wrote recently. "The lesson is that inaction is not obviously better than action. It is a choice, and it carries consequences."

After Islamic State fighters swept across northern Iraq in 2014 and threatened to conquer Baghdad, Obama launched airstrikes against the group and sent a small group of U.S. military advisers to shore up Iraqi forces. The advisers have grown to almost 5,000 in Iraq, plus about 50 special operations troops on the ground in neighboring Syria, where Islamic State's headquarters lie.

Their missions have been designed to help, rather than supplant, local forces; Obama wants to avoid making U.S. troops responsible for ground combat again.

So progress has been slow. When the U.S. operation began, commanders said they estimated it would take roughly five years to defeat Islamic State, from 2014 to 2019. That was intended to provide time to train local forces on the ground.

When Islamic State's operations were confined to Syria and Iraq, that sounded like a tolerable timetable, if a long one. Now that the group has spread to other countries and expanded its war into Europe with devastating effect, a five-year timeline seems less reasonable.

So if there's an Obama Doctrine, at least in the Middle East, it goes something like this: Keep U.S. military commitments limited  but be ready for disappointment when limited action produces modest results.

Obama sometimes sounds as if he'd like to focus Americans' attention away from the enemies he's been unable to check.

"Islamic State is not an existential threat to the United States," he told Goldberg. "Climate change is a potential existential threat to the entire world."

He'd rather be working on diplomacy in more promising parts of the world, talking with young entrepreneurs in Asia and Africa and Latin America.

Although Obama wants people to remember the new relationships he's opened, like those with Cuba and Iran, his legacy will inescapably include Iraq and Syria, too.

He came to office determined to put diplomacy at the center of U.S. foreign policy and reduce our reliance on military force  and he's done that.

But he hasn't solved the toughest riddle: what to do about the world's most dangerous places, the failed states of the Middle East. That problem remains for his successor to tackle.

Doyle McManus is a columnist for The Los Angeles Times. Email doyle.mcmanus@latimes.com Twitter: @DoyleMcManus
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Honolulu The U.S. military says a recently identified sailor killed in the 1941 bombing of Pearl Harbor will be buried in his Wisconsin hometown this week.

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency said Friday that Chief Petty Officer Duff Gordon was 52 years old and assigned to the USS Oklahoma when he died.

He's scheduled to be buried in Hudson, Wis., on Wednesday.

Japanese planes hit Gordon's battleship with multiple torpedoes and caused it to quickly capsize. The Oklahoma lost 429 men in the attack. The military wasn't able to identify most of the Oklahoma dead and buried hundreds as "unknowns."

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency dug up their remains from a veterans cemetery in Honolulu last year, saying advances in forensic science and technology have made identification more feasible. Two from Wisconsin were identified last year: Gordon and Petty Officer 1st Class Vernon T. Luke, 43, of Green Bay.

Journal Sentinel staff contributed to this report.
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The candidates for state Supreme Court are largely mum about their views on key cases, but they have given clear signs showing incumbent Rebecca Bradley (left) lines up with conservatives and challenger JoAnne Kloppenburg with liberals. Credit: Michael McLoone / for the Journal Sentinel

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Visit our election section for complete coverage of the 2016 spring and fall local, state and national elections.

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Madison  The candidates for state Supreme Court are largely mum about their views on key cases, but they have given clear signs showing incumbent Rebecca Bradley lines up with conservatives and challenger JoAnne Kloppenburg with liberals.

Bradley has repeatedly praised recently deceased conservative U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and his commitment to interpreting constitutional provisions as they were intended by the founders.

Kloppenburg has praised liberal U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, criticized Scalia's approach in at least one case and questioned the state high court's ruling last year upholding Wisconsin's voter ID law.

Republicans have embraced Bradley and Democrats Kloppenburg as the April 5 election heats up. The one public poll, from last month, has shown an extremely close race with nearly a quarter of voters undecided.

GOP Gov. Scott Walker appointed Bradley to the high court in the fall after Justice N. Patrick Crooks died. A judge on the Madison-based District 4 Court of Appeals, Kloppenburg is making her second run for the state Supreme Court, after losing to conservative Justice David Prosser in 2011.

The winner will get a 10-year term on the court.

A victory by Bradley would maintain conservatives' strong control of the court. A win by Kloppenburg would narrow the conservatives' majority to 4-3, giving liberals a chance to claim victories in cases where they could get one of the conservatives to side with them.

Bradley and Kloppenburg have offered contrasting approaches to interpreting laws. Bradley has emphasized the importance of setting aside personal viewpoints and reading the law as written.

"I think that it can be tempting for some judges and justices to introduce their personal feelings and their life experiences into their judicial decision making....I do not and I will never do that," Bradley said in a March 18 debate.

Kloppenburg said she has been fair, impartial and committed to applying the law to the facts of a case, but added the personal experiences of judges inform how they do their work.

"Your life experiences enable you to hear more clearly what the parties are trying to tell you and to ensure that you are approaching every case with an open mind," she said during that debate. "And my life experiences have shown the people of Wisconsin that I will stand up to partisan politics and special interests and make sure they have no place on our court."

Another sign of their views comes from the U.S. Supreme Court justices they say they are aligned with.

At a Tuesday forum at the Dane County Bar Association, Kloppenburg said she admires Ginsburg and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor "because they are trailblazers for women who want to follow in their footsteps as lawyers and as judges and because they do appear to share my view of the Constitution as protecting individual rights and promoting a more equal society."

At the March 18 debate, Bradley said Kloppenburg's admiration for those two justices shows she has a philosophy "that will allow her to introduce her personal policy preferences and the type of outcome that she wants to achieve into her judicial decision making."

Kloppenburg disputed that, noting Bradley has not cited any specific case that shows her overstepping her role as a judge.

Bradley has said Scalia is the justice she is most in line with.

She noted Scalia had signed onto a free-speech case allowing flag burning, even though he personally opposed that sort of political protest.

In an interview with WisPolitics.com in October, Bradley named two other conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices as those she admired  Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. But she did not name Chief Justice John Roberts, who has frustrated conservatives by voting to uphold key provisions of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare.

In many instances, the two candidates have declined to state outright what they believe about specific cases, but have signaled their views:

Voter ID. Republicans in 2011 approved a law requiring voters to show photo ID at the polls, but the measure was stalled for years by court rulings. The state Supreme Court in 2014 issued a pair of decisions that upheld the law, which it tweaked to make sure no one has to pay to get a state-issued ID card.

The law took effect after the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review challenges in a separate pair of cases.

The candidates have declined to say if they agree with those rulings, but Kloppenburg at the March 18 debate said by tweaking the voter ID law the state Supreme Court had engaged in "legislating from the bench instead of sending it back to the Legislature to do their job."

Gay marriage. The candidates have been mostly mum on whether they supported last year's U.S. Supreme Court decision finding a constitutional right for same-sex couples to marry, but Kloppenburg has said it was an "exhilarating week" when the decision was handed down.

Kloppenburg has performed gay marriages. Bradley has not, but has said she would if asked.

Bradley has taken criticism for columns she wrote as a college student 24 years ago calling gays "queers" and AIDS patients "degenerates" who had chosen to kill themselves. She has said her views changed soon afterward and apologized for those writings.

Guns. In August, Kloppenburg and two other appeals judges unanimously upheld a rule by the Madison Transit and Parking Commission banning weapons on its buses.

Gun rights group Wisconsin Carry Inc. sued over the rule, arguing it was invalid because the state's 2011 concealed weapons law barred local ordinances and resolutions restricting weapons. Kloppenburg and her colleagues found the ban on local regulations applied to municipalities, but not separate government entities such as transit commissions.

The case is now before the state Supreme Court.

Best and worst cases. In her application for her judicial appointment, Bradley wrote that one of the most important U.S. Supreme Court decisions in recent decades was Good News Club vs. Milford Central School, a 6-3 ruling written by Thomas in 2001 that found a Christian club could use school facilities after hours.

Asked to cite one of the worst high court rulings in recent years in her application, Bradley chose Kelo vs. New London. That 5-4 decision, written by liberal Justice John Paul Stevens, found a city in Connecticut could force property owners to sell their real estate in an effort to help boost the economy through private development.

Bradley called the 2005 decision an "abusive attack on a constitutional right."

Asked what she thought of those two cases, Kloppenburg said in a statement: "I'm not going to comment on the cases Rebecca Bradley chose as the best and worst. She can explain why she choose them."

As for what she considers some of the best decisions, Kloppenburg mentioned the week last year when the U.S. Supreme Court issued decisions allowing same-sex marriage, upholding the Affordable Care Act and keeping in place a fair housing law.

She named as one of the worst a 5-4 decision Roberts wrote in 2013 that invalidated key portions of the Voting Rights Act. That ruling ended a requirement that states with histories of racial discrimination get approval from the federal government before changing their voting laws.
Gov. Scott Walker thanks Brandy Gee, sister of late kickboxer Dennis Munson Jr., for her efforts to increase safety of MMA events after Walker signed a bill last week regulating such events. Credit: Michael Sears

By of the

Gov. Scott Walker isn't on the ballot this spring.

But tell that to all of the candidates who seem to be running against Walker  or from him  in the lead-up to the April 5 election.

Left-of-center candidates and interest groups are using Walker's name and mug in TV and radio ads, fliers and even political debates in an effort to tie their opponents to the governor and his sinking approval ratings.

In the Milwaukee County executive's race, for example, the two candidates accuse one another of being guilty of association with Walker, although both are long-standing Democrats. It's the high-stakes political game of trying to pin the GOP tail on the Democratic donkey.

Walker denies close ties to either one.

Last week, Walker, who served as Milwaukee's county executive from 2002 to 2010, said he didn't know why he was such a popular topic in the state Supreme Court, Milwaukee mayoral and Milwaukee County executive's races.

"You have to ask them," Walker said Tuesday at a bill-signing ceremony in Milwaukee. "I don't run their ads."

"In the end, you know, polls go up and down," Walker continued. "About five years ago at this point, I was so low in the polls Time magazine called me 'Dead Man Walker.' I came back and won the recall election with more votes  and a higher percentage of the votes  than I did the first time."

Others say there's an obvious reason for the widely used strategy in this year's state and local races.

"The governor is supremely unpopular right now," said Thad Nation, a Democratic strategist and operative.

The numbers bear that out.

Charles Franklin, director of the Marquette University Law School poll, said his survey shows Walker has lost significant support over the past 11/2 years in five of the six regions into which the poll divides the state.

In the Green Bay-Appleton region, Walker was viewed favorably by 58% of the voters in the three polls leading up to the 2014 gubernatorial election. But in the three most recent Marquette polls, including one last month, that figure had dropped to 40%.

"Walker's approval is underwater in every region except the WOW counties," Franklin said, referring to Waukesha, Ozaukee and Washington counties  a bastion of Republican support. But even there, Walker's support has fallen from 64% to 55%.

Despite all that, one Republican campaign consultant called the anti-Walker gambit a "risky strategy" for candidates.

"Trying to tie somebody to another politician is not usually a successful way of defining either your opponent or yourself," said Mark Graul, owner of Arena Strategy Group in Green Bay.

He pointed to the race between state Appeals Judge JoAnne Kloppenburg and state Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Bradley. Kloppenburg has criticized Bradley in a TV ad and in debates for repeatedly receiving judicial appointments from Walker.

"Is Rebecca Bradley independent enough to serve on the Supreme Court?" the Kloppenburg commercial asks. "Scott Walker appointed Bradley three times to three judgeships in three years."

While the TV spot may fire up Kloppenburg's Democratic base, Graul said, it overlooks the fact that Walker has been elected statewide three times since 2010 and turnout is likely to mirror a gubernatorial election on April 5. In addition, he said, such a blatant attack could turn off independents.

No so, according to Nation, the Democratic consultant.

He said the Marquette poll suggests that Walker has lost the support of most independents in the state. The governor is now down to his core group of Republican backers in many areas of Wisconsin, Nation said.

In regions where Walker's numbers have plummeted, such as Green Bay, Nation said it made good sense to point out a candidate's ties to the state's top Republican.

"Is this a smart strategy? Of course, it's a smart strategy," Nation said. "He's got some of the lowest numbers we've ever seen him have."

The Marquette poll showed Walker was viewed favorably by 48% of the respondents in the polls leading up to his successful re-election bid in 2014. That number is down to 38% in an aggregate of the last three surveys, according to Franklin.

The only region in the Marquette poll where Walker's numbers have gone up since 2014 is Milwaukee County, inching up from 35% support to 39% this year.

Yet Walker is being thumped regularly in both the Milwaukee mayor's race and county executive's contest.

In a recent TV ad, Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele portrays his opponent, state Sen. Chris Larson, as having "turned his back on his party and voted with Scott Walker to give special treatment to Wall Street and the wealthy."

Abele's attack came after Larson has repeatedly criticized him over working with Walker and Republican lawmakers to strip the Milwaukee County Board of much of its power and to give Abele the authority to take over underperforming Milwaukee Public Schools.

A liberal advocacy group, Wisconsin Working Families Party, has also mailed fliers targeting that race with photographs of Abele and Walker that read, "When you look closer at Chris Abele ... you start to see someone else."

Walker declined to say whether Larson or Abele was more closely aligned with him. Both are Milwaukee Democrats.

"I don't know that either of them is aligned with me," Walker said. "I'm aligned with the people of the state of Wisconsin, not just one county. And so they can make their case in one of the 72 counties, but I've got allegiance to people in all 72 counties."

Walker plans to vote in Milwaukee County next week but said he had not decided whether he would be casting a ballot for Abele or Larson.

In the Milwaukee mayor's race, incumbent Tom Barrett has released radio ads and a TV spot portraying his challenger, Ald. Bob Donovan, as someone with "Scott Walker's ideas." Donovan has bristled at the characterization, saying he is politically independent.

Again, the governor declined last week to take sides on whether Barrett was playing fair.

Walker noted that he had worked with members of the Milwaukee Common Council and with the three-term mayor on a number of projects. Barrett lost to Walker when they faced off statewide in 2010 and again two years later in the recall.

"I don't discriminate between Republican and Democrat in terms of who I'm willing to work with," Walker said.

But Walker was quick last week to defend Bradley against charges of partisanship in the Supreme Court matchup with Kloppenburg.

The governor said he appointed Bradley three times based on her qualifications. Likewise, he said, Kloppenburg had tried on three occasions to win judicial appointments. But he noted that Kloppenburg, unlike Bradley, had been passed over each time.

"That's a fundamental difference," Walker said. "Each candidate sought three appointments. The difference is, one got them. The other one did not."

But you'd be hard-pressed to find any mention of Walker in Bradley's advertising campaign.

Instead, Luke Martz, her campaign manager, chalks up her success to "hard work, a strong judicial philosophy and respect for her peers," not political connections to the GOP governor.
Mark Hoffman Upon hearing visitors were at the camp, refugees stream from their rooms and cafeteria at a former military barracks that has been converted into a center for refugees in Hoxter, Germany. The center is about 225 miles west of Berlin. An overwhelming majority of the refugees there are from Syria, with some Iraqi and Afghanis as well.

Hoxter, Germany  After fleeing the civil war in their homeland of Syria, after crossing the Turkish border with smugglers, after surviving a perilous two-hour journey by rubber boat to Greece, and finally after making their way by bus and train and foot through Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia, Kinda and her mother, Shaha, have settled in the German countryside.

They live now in an old military barracks that has been converted into a camp for some 600 refugees near the town of Hoxter, about half-way between Berlin and Dusseldorf. Their refugee village is a patchwork of nationalities, ethnicities and religions: Iraqis, Afghans, Syrians, Somalis, Kurds, Christians, Muslims.

They are very happy, Kinda says, though their life is dull and often confusing. Many of the refugees here speak different languages and cannot communicate with each other.

Reporter's Notebook Previous Entry Next Entry



Follow along with photos, videos and notes from reporter Mark Johnson and photojournalist Mark Hoffman on our Follow along with photos, videos and notes from reporter Mark Johnson and photojournalist Mark Hoffman on our Journey to Jordan page.

What Kinda and Shaha have found in the camp, their fourth since fleeing in 2015, is safety, perhaps the most basic of human needs.

In ten days of meeting refugees from Syria's civil war, we have heard over and over the terror that started this huge migration. We heard about mourners shot by sniper at a funeral. We heard about a man whose 5-minute trial and execution can be found on YouTube. One of the refugees explained why he left in six words: "We were bombed from all sides."

Only when they are safe can people begin to address other human needs: food, shelter, work, companionship.

Once safety has been secured, however, it isn't long before these other needs begin to assert themselves. Kinda and Shaha mentioned that in the camp near Hoxter they cannot work. This frustrates many here.

"It's good for a man to work because he can benefit the country he is in and benefit himself," an Iraqi in the camp told me. He added that some of the refugees get into fights because they have no work and have mental health problems from the terrible events they witnessed before leaving their homelands.

Our visit to the camp near Hoxter lasted no more than 30 minutes and quickly descended into chaos. There is so little to do that when outsiders come, curious residents crowd around them. Many complained about the food (mostly eggs and yogurt) which is nothing like what they were used to at home. They complain about the lack of work and the stifling boredom.

A few minutes in a refugee camp, whether in Germany or Jordan, makes one thing very clear: Safety alone is not enough to make a life.

READ MORE International reporting for this project is supported by a grant from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting.

twitter.com/majohnso markjohnson@journalsentinel.com
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By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) |  

That massive Russian air strikes and a determined infantry and armor assault by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) on the ancient city of Palmyra could dislodge from it a few hundred or at most a couple thousand Daesh (ISIS, ISIL) fighters is not all that surprising. The question is what it tells us about Russian/ Syrian strategy and about the situation on the ground in Syria.

First, the SAA lost Palmyra because it was overstretched. It was trying to defend Damascus, Homs, Hama, Latakia and West Aleppo, along an inherently indefensible Y where some 70% of Syrians live, and of which the regime of Bashar al-Assad all along retained control though it almost lost Homs in 2013 and almost lost Aleppo in summer-fall 2015. Palmyra, out in the eastern desert, was not strategically important enough to Damascus to invest the resources needed to retain it. The commander of the Qods Brigade (Jerusalem Brigade), the special operations unit of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps, Qasem Soleimani, is said to have urged al-Assad to focus on the compact Y and to let Palmyra go. The regime lost some lucrative gas fields near the city, and Daesh tried to use Palmyra as a base from which to cut the trunk road to Hama, but on the whole the decision seems to have had few downsides militarily.

Moreover, as the opposition pointed out, the fall of Palmyra was a propaganda windfall for Bashar al-Assad. All but 15,000 of Palmyras 70,000 people promptly fled Daesh rule, suggesting that the Baath regime was in fact preferable to that of the phony caliphate. And Daesh predictably damaged the spectacular archeological treasures of the ancient Roman outpost, drawing Western attention and implicitly again suggesting that even al-Assad rule was better than that of Daesh. (The opposition angrily asked why so much world attention focused on some old columns being destroyed but not on the deaths of hundreds of thousands in the civil war).

That the Syrian army can now recover Palmyra fairly easily suggests that it is no longer so overstretched. Russian air power helps, but the Syrian air force has all along been flying, often to deadly and indiscriminate effect.

In part, this new position of strength for Damascus comes from the ceasefire worked out by Sec. of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov between the regime and the remnants of the Free Syrian Army (what the US calls the moderate or vetted guerrilla groups, which I take it are mostly Muslim Brotherhood rather than Salafi Jihadi).

Strategically, the ceasefire relieves Russian air pressure on the FSA groups, so that they are not in danger of completely collapsing retaining, e.g. East Aleppo and villages north of Hama, Idlib province, etc. This Russian and Syrian government willingness to have a cessation of hostilities with these groups suggests that they are the ones who will be allowed to negotiate a post-war Syria from the opposition side though the Russian intervention has left them in a weak position while the regime has been much strengthened.

For the Syrian regime, the ceasefire relieves the army from the necessity of defending long road routes and thousands of villages.

Only three groups appear not to have joined in the cessation of hostilities one is al-Qaeda (the Nusra Front) in the northwest (a theater the US press and politicians routinely ignore because the US is tactically allied with al-Qaeda via FSA units that fight alongside it). The second is the al-Qaeda ally the Freemen of Syria (Ahrar al-Sham), which represents itself as more moderate than the other Salafi Jihadis but to my mind this is like saying that the Italian fascists were more moderate than the German ones. Probably true, but so what?

Then there is Daesh. It is horrible, and is now regularly striking European cities, but in the Syrian civil war its dusty desert territories in the east, half-abandoned by their former populations, just were not that important regionally, even if Daesh was on the US front burner as a problem.

So I would have expected Russia and the Syrian regime to take advantage of the ceasefire to finish off al-Qaeda and separate it from its tactical allies who are observing it.

Instead, they struck off into the eastern desert to recover Palmyra, which has much less significance than the al-Qaeda-held regions of Idlib, or around Damascus, or in the Golan. It is a little baffling.

If the regime and Russia, as they have announced they will, press on to defeat Daesh in its strongholds of Deir al-Zor and al-Raqqa, then the old advantage for the regime of being able to point to the danger of Daesh if it falls or is weakened (thus dividing the West, many parts of which, like the Czech Republic, are far more afraid of Daesh than of the survival of al-Assad) will be gone.

Is this because the regime and Russia no longer see any realistic prospect of the regime falling? Is it because the US and NATO have given some sort of behind the scenes assurances that they will pressure the FSA remnants to negotiate, and will cut them off if they dont? Is it because there is hope that the Free Syria Army remnants can convince Nusra to abandon its allegiance to 9/11 mastermind Ayman al-Zawahiri and so become just another Salafi unit of the opposition?

Do they want credit from Europe for polishing off Daesh now that Paris and Brussels were attacked, arguing now that the regime is necessary to prevent a *resurgence* of that kind of thing once al-Raqqa falls and the caliphate is reduced to a ragtag band of fugitive terrorists?

So here is one possible explanation for this strategy. The Syrian regime press quotes an unnamed military expert as saying that the recovery of Palmyra may prevent the partition of Syria.

That is, Kerry and even the Russian deputy foreign minister have talked about the possibility of a decentralized, federal post-war Syria, which the regime in Damascus interprets as partition. Syria, like its past colonial power France, has a tradition of strong rule from the center.

Obviously Daesh would not have been left in federalized al-Raqqa and Deir al-Zor provinces. But al-Raqqa might have fallen to the Syrian Kurds, who have already announced their new ethnic federal province of Rojava, over strong objections from Damascus.

So maybe the regime is trying to prevent a federal solution by recovering the two big (if largely empty) provinces of eastern Syria, making an argument that Damascus has 90% of the country and so federal devolution makes no sense.

So they may be trying to head off the Kurds at al-Raqqa, and trying to forestall a Kerry decentralization initiative. I.e., the Palmyra campaign is about shaping the post-war settlement. If that is true, were now in the end stages of the war, and al-Assad is acting toward Daesh territory as Stalin did toward the Nazis in 1945 trying to get as far into Germany as possible before the fall of Berlin.

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Related video

CCTV: Syrian government forces recapture Palmyra from ISIL
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I think it is hard for anybody to deny that our campaign has the momentum, Sanders told supporters.

Bernie Sanders won all three caucuses held Saturday in the states of Washington, Alaska and Hawaii, beating Hillary Clinton by 40 or more points in each contest.

Sanders picked up 117 delegates from his wins in Washington and Alaska. He also picked up 17 delegates in Hawaii, where he won by his smallest margin of the night: 39.8 points.

Results were better than expected for the social democrat.

We knew from day one that we were going to have a hard time in the conservative South, but we knew things were going to improve the more we went West, Sanders said at a rally in Madison, Wisconsin.

Weve been told for a long time that young people were apathetic, well this is not what we are seeing, we are seeing that the young people want to make the U.S. a better country, said Sanders. They want an economy that works for all of us, not just wealthy campaign contributors.

He went on to thank his supporters and commented, We have over US$6 million in campaign contributions and our average contribution is US$27.

Washington was by far the biggest win of the sweep, with 101 delegates at stake.

The victories give Sanders momentum heading into a crucial test with major primaries next month in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. Bloomberg Politics released a national poll that found Sanders is the first choice of 49 percent of those who have voted or plan to vote in this years Democratic contests, while Hillary Clinton is preferred by 48 percent.

A self-described socialist, Sanders has managed to amplify the voices of millions shafted by a rigged economy and lifted expectations, especially among youth.

Unlike his rival Clinton, he has shown an open opposition to neoliberal policies and has pushed the Democratic party debate to the left.

Via TeleSur e

-

Related video added by Juan Cole:

Wochit News: Bernie Sanders Wins Big In Alaska And Washington Democratic Caucuses
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - March 28, 2016) - Banro Corporation ("Banro" or the "Company") (NYSE MKT:BAA)(TSX:BAA) today announced its financial and operating results for the full year 2015 and fourth quarter 2015.

"We continue to be very pleased with Twangiza's ability to deliver exceptional production while containing total costs to achieve strong solid operating results," commented Banro CEO and President John Clarke. "With the declaration of commercial production at Namoya effective January 1, 2016, we are looking forward to the contributions that Namoya will make to the overall performance of the Company which we expect to continuously grow throughout the year."

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

 Record 2015 revenue of $157 million, a 25% increase over 2014 ($125 million)  Gross earnings from operations of $56 million, a 91% increase over 2014 ($29 million)  2015 EBITDA of $55.7 million with net income before impairment charge of $11 million  $98.75 million financing closed subsequent to year end

OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

 2015 annual gold production of 183,369 ounces, well within consolidated production guidance  Twangiza production increased by 38% to 135,532 ounces of gold in 2015 (98,184 ounces in 2014); 30,440 ounces in Q4 2015 (29,445 ounces in Q4 2014)  In 2015, 135,391 ounces of gold were sold at an average price of $1,157 per ounce (101,225 ounces of gold were sold at an average price of $1,239 per ounce in 2014)  2015 cash costs per ounce at Twangiza decreased 19% to $553 per ounce from $683 per ounce in 2014, as plant throughput exceeded design capacity.  Namoya declares commercial production effective January 1, 2016

All dollar amounts in this press release are expressed in thousands of dollars and, unless otherwise specified, in United States dollars.

(I) Financial

The table below provides a summary of financial and operating results for the three month periods and years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

Q4 2015 Q4 2014 Change

% 2015 2014 Change

% Selected Financial Data Revenues 34,606 35,178 (2% ) 156,710 125,436 25% Total mine operating expenses1 (25,232 ) (24,212 ) 4% (100,665 ) (96,045 ) 5% Gross earnings from operations 9,374 10,966 (15% ) 56,045 29,391 91% Net (loss)/income before impairment charge2 (8,346 ) 272 (3,168% ) 10,757 320 3,262% Net (loss)/income (19,446 ) 272 (7,249% ) (73,543 ) 320 (23,082% ) Basic net (loss)/earnings per share ($/share) (0.08 ) 0.00 (100% ) (0.29 ) 0.00 (100% ) Key Operating Statistics Average gold price received ($/oz) 1,106 1,202 (8% ) 1,157 1,239 (7% ) Gold sales (oz) 31,303 29,264 7% 135,391 101,225 34% Gold production (oz) 30,440 29,445 3% 135,532 98,184 38% All-in sustaining cost per ounce ($/oz) 745 669 11% 657 781 (16% ) Cash cost per ounce ($/oz) 601 572 5% 553 683 (19% ) Gold margin ($/oz) 505 630 (20% ) 604 556 9% Financial Position Cash and cash equivalents 2,262 1,002 2,262 1,002 Gold bullion inventory at market value3 2,398 2,834 2,398 2,834 Total assets 871,731 887,482 871,731 887,482 Long term debt 168,127 200,921 168,127 200,921

(1) Includes depletion and depreciation. (2) This is a Non-IFRS measure adjusting Net loss for impairment charges of $11,100 and $84,300 recognized in Q4 2015 and for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively. Refer to the Namoya - Mine Under Construction section below for additional information. (3) This represents 2,262 ounces of gold bullion inventory shown at the December 31, 2015 closing market price of $1,060 per ounce of gold.

 Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $156,710, a 25% increase compared to the prior year of $125,436. During 2015, ounces of gold sold increased by 34% to 135,391 ounces compared to sales of 101,255 ounces during 2014 due to increased production. The average gold price per ounce sold during 2015 was $1,157 compared to an average price of $1,239 per ounce obtained during 2014. Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2015 were $34,606 compared with revenue of $35,178 for the fourth quarter of 2014, due to lower market prices partially offset by higher ounces sold.  Mine operating expenses, including depletion and depreciation, for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $100,665 compared to the prior year of $96,045. The cost increase was a reflection of increased milling throughput of 26%, for a total of 1,714,593 tonnes, being 101% of design capacity, partially offset by lower tonnes mined of 9% and lower depreciation as a result of the extension in the life of the mine declared during the second quarter of 2015. Mine operating expenses during the fourth quarter of 2015 were consistent with the fourth quarter of 2014, as increased throughput was offset by lower tonnes mined.  Gross earnings from operations for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $56,045, compared to $29,391 for 2014. The 25% higher gold sales with only a corresponding 5% increase in mine operating expenses translated into an increase of 91% in gross earnings from operations and a gross margin of 36% compared to 23% in fiscal 2014. Gross earnings from operations in the fourth quarter of 2015 decreased 10% from the fourth quarter of 2014 as a result of lower revenues per ounce partially offset by increased ounces sold.  Cash costs per ounce on a sales basis for 2015 were $553 per ounce of gold, a 19% decline from $683 per ounce of gold in 2014. Cash costs for 2015 were lower than the prior year mainly due to increased plant productivity at Twangiza and cost benefits from lower diesel prices. Throughout 2015, Twangiza maintained steady state production levels, providing a stable base for incremental improvements going forward. Cash costs per ounce of $601 for the fourth quarter of 2015 were slightly higher than the fourth quarter of 2014 at $592.  All-in sustaining costs declined in 2015 to $657 per ounce (compared to $781 per ounce of gold for 2014) driven by lower cash costs and lower levels of sustaining capital expenditures per ounce. All-in sustaining costs for the fourth quarter of 2015 increased to $745 per ounce compared to $689 per ounce in the fourth quarter of 2014, mainly from higher sustaining capital from increased construction activity on the Tailings Management Facility ("TMF") during the quarter.  In February 2016, the Company closed financing transactions for gross proceeds totaling $98.75 million (refer to subsequent events below). With the completion of these transactions, the Company extinguished certain gold forward sale agreements entered into in February and April 2015 for approximately $31.8 million and deposited $26.23 million with the trustee for the payment of interest on the Company's senior notes until their maturity in March 2017.

(II) Operational - Twangiza

 During 2015, Twangiza was loss time injury ("LTI") free, achieving over 10 million LTI free hours.  During 2015, the plant at the Twangiza Mine processed 1,714,593 tonnes of ore (compared to 1,358,726 tonnes during 2014) achieving 101% of the design capacity. The design capacity of 1.7 million tonnes per annum ("Mtpa") was based on the processing of oxide material, while Twangiza's processing achievement includes the continued processing of harder non-oxide material. Ore was processed during 2015 at an indicated head grade of 3.03g/t Au (compared to 2.70 g/t Au during 2014) with a recovery rate of 80.9% (compared to 83.0% during 2014) to produce 135,532 (compared to 98,184 during 2014) ounces of gold.  The Twangiza plant processing capabilities with respect to non-oxide material led to a 59% increase in mineral reserves (see Banro's June 8, 2015 press release).  Throughout the year, site management focused on the delivery of incremental operational efficiencies including working to optimize mining operations for the delivery of oxide and non-oxide material for blended processing as well as the subsequent process of processing the blended feed.

(III) Namoya - Mine under Construction

 Namoya declared commercial production effective January 1, 2016.

Mine Under Construction - Investment 2015 Change 2014 ($000's ) (% ) ($000's ) Mine development expenditures 111,372 13% 98,742 Pre-commercial production revenue (53,318 ) 144% (21,687 ) Net expenditures 58,054 (24% ) 77,055 Impairment (84,300 ) 100% - Balance as at December 31 388,012 (6% ) 414,258

 During 2015, the Namoya Mine produced 47,837 ounces of gold from a total of 1,416,179 tonnes of ore, stacked and sprayed on the heap leach pads, at an indicated head grade of 1.88 g/t Au.  During the first two quarters of 2015, Namoya implemented a number of process design changes which converted the hybrid CIL/heap leach circuit into an agglomerated heap leach. Following the commissioning of the agglomeration drum in the first quarter of 2015, Namoya implemented process upgrades to increase throughput and stacking capabilities which came online in stages from late in the second quarter to the end of the year. These upgrades led to daily stacking rates that incrementally increased and stabilized; however, the utilization of the processed circuit in the second half of the year was restricted due to the lack of ore delivery from mining operations. This led to stacked ore volumes being supplemented by low grade ore stockpile material which decreased the average head grade of ore stacked.  Ore delivery from mining operations in the third quarter was adversely impacted by low excavator availability. Excavator availability improved in September with the commissioning of the first component of the larger mining fleet. The remainder of the larger mining fleet, the CAT 777s, were commissioned in phases throughout November with the full mine fleet operational in early December. The commissioning of the larger mining fleet has contributed to improving mining productivity, representing the final step toward Namoya operating in a manner consistent with management expectations.  During 2015, the Company recorded a non-cash impairment charge totalling $84.3 million against the Namoya Mine Under Construction asset balance in its consolidated financial statements, resulting in a net balance of $388.0 million as at December 31, 2015. The non-cash impairment charge recorded was due to the aggregate adverse impact of the current period economic performance of Namoya compared to expectations, a decrease in the long term gold price outlook, the build-up of capitalized borrowing costs (interest and dividends directly attributable to the construction of the asset totaling approximately $88 million project-to-date) and pre-commercial operating losses (totaling approximately $38 million project-to-date) from the extended ramp up due to the delay in financing, the commissioning of the mobile fleet and the redesign of the plant as well as a consolidated enterprise value that is lower than the net assets of the Company.

(IV) Exploration

 During the second half of 2015, exploration activities increased with near mine exploration drilling at Namoya. High grade drill results intersecting significant mineralization were declared from the first stage of the follow up drill program at the Namoya Summit footwall zone which borders the Filon B target (see Banro's September 18, 2015 press release). In addition, further high grade results from the second phase of the program resulted in the discovery of new mineralization at the Namoya hanging wall area and Filon C in the north eastern and eastern reaches of the summit (see Banro's February 24, 2016 press release).  Throughout 2015, as the Company focused on the development at Namoya and incremental operational achievements at Twangiza, exploration activities were limited to near mine resource development at Twangiza and Namoya together with low level exploration and ground maintenance activities in the Twangiza Regional, Kamituga, Lugushwa and Namoya Regional projects.

(V) Corporate Development

 In February 2015, the Company signed definitive agreements for two gold forward sale transactions relating to the Twangiza mine and a gold streaming transaction relating to the Namoya mine, providing total gross proceeds to the Company of $90 million. Each of the two forward sale transactions provided for the prepayment by the purchaser of $20 million for its purchase of 22,248 ounces of gold from the Twangiza mine, with the gold deliverable over three years, at 618 ounces per month. The first $20 million forward sale closed on February 27, 2015 and the second $20 million forward sale closed on April 30, 2015. The terms of the forward sales provide that they may be terminated at any time upon payment to the purchaser of a one-time termination amount that would result in the purchaser receiving an internal rate of return of 20%. The terms of the forward sales also included a gold floor price mechanism whereby, if the gold price falls below $1,100 per ounce in any month, additional ounces are deliverable to ensure a realized gold price of $1,100 per ounce for that month. The Namoya streaming transaction, which closed on April 30, 2015, provided for the payment by the purchaser of a deposit in the amount of $50 million and the delivery to the purchaser over time of 8.33% of the life-of-mine gold production from the Namoya mine (or any other projects located within 20 kilometres from the current Namoya gold mine). The ongoing payments to Namoya upon delivery of the gold are $150 per ounce.  In May 2015, the Company closed a $10 million forward sale to finance the purchase of the expanded mobile fleet. The forward sale transaction provided for the prepayment by the purchaser of $10 million for its purchase of 9,508 ounces of gold from the Twangiza mine, with the gold deliverable over two years, at 396 ounces per month. The forward sale may be terminated at any time upon payment to the purchaser of a one-time termination amount that would result in the purchaser receiving an internal rate of return of 13%. The terms also include a gold floor price mechanism whereby, if the gold price falls below $1,150 per ounce in any month, additional ounces are deliverable to ensure a realized gold price of $1,150 per ounce for that month.  In September 2015, the Company closed a new $9 million loan facility with an existing lender, Banque Commerciale du Congo ("BCDC"), following repayments of the previous $10 million credit facility with BCDC which is now extinguished, as well as repayments of other existing facilities with DRC banks. The loan facility is for a term of 22 months, bears interest of 9.5% per annum and is repayable over 19 months starting in January 2016. In November 2015, the Company drew down an additional $2.5 million facility in connection with the $9 million loan facility.  In September 2015, the Company closed a $7 million gold forward sale transaction. The forward sale transaction provides for the prepayment by the purchaser of $7 million for its purchase of 8,481 ounces of gold from the Twangiza mine, with the gold deliverable over 33 months, at 257 ounces per month beginning January 2016. The forward sale may be terminated at any time upon payment to the purchaser of a one-time termination amount. The terms of the forward sale also include a gold floor price mechanism whereby, if the gold price falls below $1,100 per ounce in any month, additional ounces are deliverable to ensure a realized gold price of $1,100 per ounce for that month.  In December 2015, the Company signed definitive agreements with Resource FinanceWorks ("RFW") (through its affiliate RFW Banro Investments Limited ("RFWB")) and with funds managed by Gramercy Funds Management LLC ("Gramercy") for an equity private placement, a term loan facility, and a gold streaming transaction relating to the Twangiza mine, providing total gross proceeds to the Company of $98.75 million. RFW manages the Baiyin Stream Partnership I, LP, a mining investment fund through which the investment has been made, and which is led by the Baiyin Nonferrous Group Co., Ltd., a strategic Chinese mining group based in Gansu, China. The equity placement and gold streaming transaction are transacted solely with RFW, while the term loan transaction is with RFW and Gramercy. The closing of these transactions was subject to certain conditions including certain regulatory approvals.  The Company elected not to declare the September and December 2015 dividends on the gold-linked preference/preferred shares issued in 2013. The accrued amount in respect of these dividends was $1,875 as at December 31, 2015.

(VI) Subsequent Events

 Effective January 1, 2016, commercial production was declared for the Namoya Mine. The continuing progress at Namoya over the fourth quarter of 2015, in particular the sustained production achieved during December when the full fleet was operational, indicated that Namoya was capable of operating in a manner consistent with management expectations.  In February 2016, the Company closed the $67.5 million gold streaming transaction relating to the Twangiza mine (the "Twangiza Transaction") with RFWB, the $22.5 million term loan funded by RFWB and Gramercy, and the $8.75 million equity private placement to RFWB. With the closing of these transactions, the Company defeased the remaining three interest payments under the senior notes.  The Twangiza Transaction provided for the payment by the purchaser of a deposit in the amount of US$67.5 million and the delivery to the purchaser over time of a certain percentage (the "Entitlement Percentage") of the life-of-mine gold production (effective January 1, 2016) from the Twangiza mine, or any other projects located within 20 kilometres from the current Twangiza gold mine, based on the gold price at the time of delivery. The Entitlement Percentage is 11% based on a gold price between $1,150 and $1,500 per ounce, 12.5% based on a gold price of less than $1,150 per ounce, and 9.5% based on a gold price greater than $1,500 per ounce. When total gold production from the Twangiza mine has reached 1.14 million ounces from the commencement of the stream, the Entitlement Percentages above will be reduced by 50%. The ongoing payments by the purchaser to Twangiza upon delivery of the gold are $150 per ounce. At any time after the third anniversary of the closing of the Twangiza Transaction, Twangiza may, at its discretion, terminate the stream by paying to the purchaser in cash a buyback price equal to an amount which would result in the purchaser achieving an implied internal rate of return of 17.5% on the cash flows arising from the stream during the period from the closing of the Twangiza Transaction to the date that is 12 months following the date of payment of the buyback price.  The term loan facility represents a loan of $22.5 million with an initial maturity date of November 30, 2016, but which may be extended until November 30, 2020 provided certain financial tests are met. The facility bears interest at a rate of 8.5% per annum for the first two years of the term and then at a rate of the 3 month LIBOR rate plus 8.0% for the last two years of the term, with the interest payable quarterly and the principal repayable in full at the end of the term of the facility. The loan may be prepaid at any time without penalty. At any time following the second anniversary of the loan, the lenders may require repayment. Banro has issued to the lenders a total of 10 million common share purchase warrants ("Warrants") of Banro (5 million Warrants each to RFWB and to Gramercy in proportion to their advance of the term loan), with each such Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one common share of Banro at a price of $0.2275 for a period of three years.  Under the private placement transaction, Banro issued 50,000,000 common shares and 2.5 million Warrants to RFWB, for total gross proceeds to the Company of $8.75 million. These Warrants have the same terms as the Warrants issued under the term loan transaction as set forth above. RFWB holds approximately 16.6% of the outstanding common shares of Banro following completion of this private placement. For so long as RFWB holds at least 10% of the outstanding common shares of Banro, RFWB has the right to nominate one person for election to the Banro board of directors at the annual shareholders meeting.  In February 2016, concurrent with the closing of the above transactions, RFWB purchased from Gramercy $40 million of the outstanding Banro senior secured notes issued by Banro on March 2, 2012 and US$20 million of the outstanding preferred shares issued by subsidiaries of Banro on February 28, 2014.

Outlook

Banro Guidance 2016 Twangiza (oz), full year 110,000 to 120,000 Namoya (oz), full year 100,000 to 110,000 Consolidated (oz), full year 210,000 to 230,000 Cash cost per ounce ($US/oz) 700 to 800

For 2016 the Company expects annual gold production from both Twangiza and Namoya to total 210,000 to 230,000 ounces with the production weighted at approximately 40% in H1 and 60% in H2. At this production level, the Company expects consolidated cash costs in the range of $700 to $800 per ounce with cash costs in the higher range in H1 and falling below the lower range in H2, consistent with production volumes. The site all-in sustaining costs are expected to be in the range of $800 to $900 per ounce with the consolidated all-in sustaining costs in the range of $875 to $950 per ounce.

In consideration of current gold prices and the Company's intent to operate the two existing mines to their maximum potential, the Company has developed several key objectives for 2016. These objectives are aimed at increasing gold production while containing costs, and increasing the Company's quality of Mineral Resources to potentially improve the medium term economics of the mines.

These objectives include:

 Ramp up to steady production at Namoya with a focus on the heap leach operations and improve the quality of heap leach material processed.  Implement the fine crushing expansion project at Twangiza while continuing to optimize the plant and rationalize costs.  Progress the new TMF at Twangiza to support the increased mine life of the operation and reduce the overall cost of tailings disposal for Twangiza.  Focusing exploration initiatives on completing additional delineation for the Namoya resource and defining the resources on the newly discovered Namoya Summit hanging wall and Filon C mineralized zones.

The Company's capital expenditure forecast for 2016 as compared to 2015 is set out below:

Banro Guidance 2016

($000s) Change

(%) 2015

($000s) Twangiza Mine 24,000 38% 17,418 Namoya Mine1 8,000 (94% ) 127,560 1 Namoya 2015 capital reflects gross development spending inclusive of plant and equipment

Twangiza capital expenditures forecast for 2016 consist primarily of sustaining capital, including the continued construction of the TMF and additions to excavator and drilling equipment. The expansion capital expenditures for Twangiza in 2016 consist of the fine crusher expansion project and the early works for the new TMF project. The capital expenditures for Twangiza in 2015 consisted mainly of sustaining capital relating to the construction of the TMF, and upgrades to the mobile fleet.

Namoya capital expenditures forecast for 2016 consists primarily of the extension of the heap leach pad and additions to mining auxiliary equipment. The capital expenditures for Namoya in 2015 consisted of project capital to complete the modifications to an agglomerated heap leach as well as the purchase of the larger mining fleet that was intended to be provided through contractor mining operations.

Qualified Person

Daniel K. Bansah, the Company's Head of Projects and Operations and a "qualified person" as such term is defined in National Instrument 43-101, has approved the technical information in this press release.

Non-IFRS Measures

Management uses cash cost to monitor financial performance and provide additional information to investors and analysts. Cash cost does not have a standard definition under IFRS and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. As cash cost does not have a standardized meaning, it may not be comparable to similar measures provided by other companies. However, the methodology used by the Company to determine cash cost per ounce is based on a standard developed by the Gold Institute, which was an association which included gold mining organizations, amongst others, from around the world.

The Company defines cash cost, as recommended by the Gold Institute standard, as all direct costs that the Company incurs relating to mine production, transport and refinery costs, general and administrative costs, movement in production inventories and ore stockpiles, less depreciation and depletion. Cash cost per ounce is determined on a sales basis.

Cash Cost Q4 2015

($000's) Q4 2014

($000's) Q3 2015

($000's) 2015

($000's) 2014

($000's) Mine operating expenses 25,232 24,212 23,084 100,665 96,045 Less: Depletion and depreciation (6,416 ) (7,466 ) (5,821 ) (25,748 ) (26,897 ) Total cash costs 18,816 16,746 17,263 74,917 69,148 Gold sales (oz) 31,303 29,264 34,467 135,391 101,225 Cash cost per ounce ($/oz) 601 572 501 553 683

The Company defines all-in sustaining costs as all direct costs that the Company incurs relating to mine production, transport and refinery costs, general and administrative costs, movement in production inventories and ore stockpiles, less depreciation and depletion plus all sustaining capital costs (excluding exploration). All-in sustaining cost per ounce is determined on a sales basis.

All-In Sustaining Cost Q4 2015

($000's) Q4 2014

($000's) Q3 2015

($000's) 2015

($000's) 2014

($000's) Mine operating expenses 25,232 24,212 23,084 100,665 96,045 Less: Depletion and depreciation (6,416 ) (7,466 ) (5,821 ) (25,748 ) (26,897 ) Total cash costs 18,816 16,746 17,263 74,917 69,148 Sustaining capital 4,507 2,844 2,262 14,096 9,945 All-in cash costs 23,323 19,590 19,525 89,013 79,093 Gold sales (oz) 31,303 29,264 34,467 135,391 101,225 All-in cash cost per ounce ($/oz) 745 669 566 657 781

The Company defines gold margin as the difference between the cash cost per ounce disclosed and the average price per ounce of gold sold during the reporting period.

Banro calculates EBITDA as net income or loss for the period excluding: interest, income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization. EBITDA is intended to provide additional information to investors and analysts. It does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. EBITDA excludes the impact of cash costs of financing activities and taxes, and the effects of changes in operating working capital balances, and therefore is not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under IFRS. Other companies may calculate EBITDA differently. A reconciliation between net profit for the period and EBITDA is presented below:

EBITDA Q4 2015

($000's) Q4 2014

($000's) Q3 2015

($000's) 2015

($000's) 2014

($000's) Net (loss)/income (19,446 ) 272 (12,211 ) (73,543 ) 320 Interest and Financing Costs 3,315 1,686 3,686 18,739 12,370 Taxes 400 - - 400 - Depletion and depreciation 6,430 7,505 5,834 25,823 26,985 Impairment 11,100 - 23,000 84,300 - EBITDA 1,799 9,463 20,309 55,719 39,675

Year End 2015 Financial Results Conference Call Information

Banro will host a conference call at 11:00AM EST on March 29, 2016. Please use the following dial in numbers:

Year End 2015 Financial Results Conference Call Information

Toll Free (North America): +1 877-291-4570 Conf ID: 56129418 Toronto Local & International: +1 647-788-4919 Conf ID: 56129418

Year End 2015 Financial Results Conference Call REPLAY

Toll Free Replay Call (North America): +1 800-585-8367 Conf ID: 56129418 Toronto Local & International: +1 416-621-4642 Conf ID: 56129418

The conference call replay will be available from 2:00PM EST on March 29, 2016 until 11:59 PM EST on April 12, 2016.

For further information regarding this conference call, please contact Banro Investor Relations or visit the Company website, www.banro.com.

NYSE MKT LLC Company Guide Matters

The following additional information, which relates to the Company's audited consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2015 (the "Annual Financial Statements") filed today, is being provided pursuant to the requirements of the NYSE MKT Company Guide. NYSE MKT Company Guide Section 610(b) requires separate disclosure of receipt of an audit opinion containing going concern explanatory language. As was the case last year, the audit opinion accompanying the Annual Financial Statements includes an emphasis of matter paragraph with respect to the Company's use of the going concern assumption. The Annual Financial Statements are included in the Company's annual report on Form 40-F dated March 28, 2016 filed today with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission via EDGAR at www.sec.gov, and have also been filed today with applicable Canadian securities regulators via SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The Annual Financial Statements are also available on the Company's website at www.banro.com, and hard copies of the Annual Financial Statements are available, free of charge, to shareholders upon written request.

Banro Corporation is a Canadian gold mining company focused on production from the Twangiza mine, which began commercial production September 1, 2012, and the ramp-up to full production at its second gold mine at Namoya, where commercial production was declared effective January 1, 2016. The Company's longer term objectives include the development of two additional major, wholly-owned gold projects, Lugushwa and Kamituga. The four projects, each of which has a mining license, are located along the 210 kilometre long Twangiza-Namoya gold belt in the South Kivu and Maniema provinces of the DRC. All business activities are followed in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.

For further information, please visit our website at www.banro.com.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - March 28, 2016) - FIRST MAJESTIC SILVER CORP. (the "Company" or "First Majestic") (FRANKFURT:FMV)(TSX:FR)(NYSE:AG)(BVM:AG) is pleased to provide an updated NI 43-101 Technical Report including Mineral Reserve and Resource estimates for the La Encantada Silver Mine located in the State of Coahuila, Mexico. First Majestic is reporting Mineral Resources inclusive of Mineral Reserves; readers are cautioned of this change since the Company had previously reported La Encantada's Mineral Resources exclusive of Mineral Reserves in its previous Technical Report. The silver price used for reserve estimates was reduced to $17.50/oz, or 12.5% lower compared to the previous estimate of $20.00/oz. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless stated otherwise.

REPORTED HIGHLIGHTS

Proven and Probable Reserves totalling 6.7 million tonnes containing 30.6 million ounces of silver with an average silver grade of 143 g/t, including 1.5 million tonnes containing 10.1 million ounces of silver with an average silver grade of 214 g/t

Measured and Indicated Resources of 6.1 million tonnes containing 31.4 million ounces of silver

Inferred Resources totalling 0.9 million tonnes containing 7.2 million ounces of silver

Life of Mine (LOM) of 8.5 years assuming tailings reprocessing with roaster, with a Net Present Value of $28.6 million based on a 5% discount rate.

Increase of silver recoveries in tailings from 15% to 70% using roasting

Additional exploration potential around Ojuelas deposit and skarn dome

Keith Neumeyer, CEO and President, states: "It's great to see that despite our production of over 23 million ounces of silver since our last 43-101 report seven years ago, reserve and resources have held up very well. The potential at La Encantada for discovery and development of additional ounces is high, however, as a result of reduced budgets in this low metal price environment, exploration and development are two of the areas of the business that have been most critically affected. As the environment improves in the coming years, the Company's intention is to increase investment in these areas in order to improve grades and Life of Mine."

The La Encantada Silver Mine, located in northern Mexico in the State of Coahuila, consists of 22 mining concessions covering 4,076 hectares (10,072 acres). La Encantada is an underground silver mine comprised of two processing facilities, 180 houses for accommodation of employees, offices, warehouses, a recreational club, restaurants, guest houses, three schools, a church, a hospital, water wells and an airstrip.

Since its prior Technical Report cut-off date of October 1, 2008, to the effective cut-off date of December 31, 2015 used for the Mineral Reserves and Resource estimates, First Majestic has led several exploration programs at La Encantada which has generated 89,426 metres of diamond drilling over a total of 591 holes. Underground drilling consisted of 68,371 metres in 469 holes in addition to 21,056 metres of surface drilling in 122 holes. The most important underground areas drilled over this period of time include the NE-trending system of veins (Buenos Aires, Azul y Oro, 990, 990-2, El Regalo and San Francisco dike), the Milagros area (San Javier breccia, Milagros breccia and Milagros intrusion) and the recently discovered Ojuelas deposit and skarn dome.

The updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates for La Encantada are shown below and are classified in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves (May 2014).

Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves, with an effective date of December 31, 2015

Category Mineral

Type k

tonnes Ag

(g/t) Pb

(%) Ag-Eq

(g/t) Ag

(k Oz) Ag-Eq

(k Oz) Proven (UG) Oxides 251 247 - 247 1,991 1,991 Probable (UG) Oxides 1,473 214 - 214 10,120 10,120 Probable (UG) Oxides - Flotation 809 147 2.35 196 3,817 5,093 Probable (Tailings) Oxides 4,138 110 - 110 14,633 14,633 Total Proven and Probable (UG) Oxides + Tailings 6,670 143 0.29 148 30,561 31,837

(1) Mineral Reserves have been classified in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, whose definitions are incorporated by reference into NI 43-101. (2) Metal prices considered for Vein System and other Minor Deposits, San Javier and Milagros Breccias and Tailings Deposit was $17.50 USD/oz Ag, and for Ojuelas were $18.00 USD/oz Ag, $0.90 USD/lb Pb. (3) Cut-off grade considered for the Veins System, other minor deposits and the San Javier and Milagros Breccias was 140 g/t Ag and is based on actual and estimated operating and sustaining costs. (4) Cut-off considered for Ojuelas was a NSR $53.91/t and is based on estimated operating cost, sustaining costs and the production schedule ran in PCBC. (5) Cut-off grade considered for Tailings Deposit No. 4 was 85 g/t Ag and is based on estimated operating cost and sustaining costs. (6) Silver metallurgical recovery used was 58% for the Veins System, other minor deposits and the San Javier and Milagros Breccias. (7) Metallurgical recovery used for Ojuelas was 67% for silver and 60% for lead. (8) Metallurgical recovery used for Tailings Deposit No. 4 was 53% for silver. (9) Metal payable used for the Veins System, other minor deposits, the San Javier and Milagros Breccias and Tailings Deposit No. 4 was 99.6%. (10) Metal payable used for Ojuelas was 95% for silver and 95% for lead. (11) Tonnage is expressed in thousands of tonnes, metal content is expressed in thousands of ounces. (12) Totals may not add up due to rounding. (13) Dilution for Veins System and other Minor deposits was estimated at 15%, dilution for San Javier and Milagros Breccias was estimated at 40%, dilution for Ojuelas was estimated at 20% and dilution for Tailing Deposit No. 4 was estimated at 3%. (14) Mineral Reserves estimates for the Ojuelas area, the San Javier Breccia, Milagros Breccia, Vein Systems areas were prepared under supervision of Ramon Mendoza Reyes, PEng, QP Mining for First Majestic.

Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, with an effective date of December 31, 2015

Category Mineral

Type k

tonnes Ag

(g/t) Pb

(%) Ag-Eq

(g/t) Ag

(k Oz) Ag-Eq

(k Oz) Measured (UG) Oxides 283 267 - 267 2,433 2,433 Indicated (UG) Oxides 854 299 - 299 8,198 8,198 Indicated (UG) Oxides - Flotation 734 246 4.07 325 5,795 7,662 Indicated (Tailings) Oxides 4,222 110 - 110 14,931 14,931 Total Measured and Indicated (UG) Oxides + Tailings 6,093 160 0.49 170 31,357 33,224

Inferred Mineral Resources, with an effective date of December 31, 2015

Category Mineral

Type k

tonnes Ag

(g/t) Pb

(%) Ag-Eq

(g/t) Ag

(k Oz) Ag-Eq

(k Oz) Inferred Ojuelas (UG) Oxides 35 292 0.78 305 325 340 Inferred other deposits (UG) Oxides 871 244 - 244 6,829 6,829 Inferred Total (UG) Oxides 905 246 0.03 246 7,154 7,169

(1) Mineral Resources have been classified in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, whose definitions are incorporated by reference into National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). (2) Metal prices considered for all deposits were $18.50 USD/oz Ag, with the exception of Ojuelas which used $18.00 USD/oz Ag and $0.95 USD/lb Pb. (3) Cut-off grade considered for the Veins System, other Minor Deposits, the San Javier and Milagros Breccias was 130 g/t Ag, cut-off grade for Ojuelas was 135 g/t Ag-Eq, and cutoff grade for Tailings Deposit No. 4 was 85 g/t Ag. Cut-off estimates are based on actual and budgeted operating and sustaining costs. (4) Metallurgical recovery of silver was assumed 58% for the Veins System, other Minor Deposits and the San Javier and Milagros Breccias. (5) Metallurgical recovery used for Ojuelas was 67% for silver and 60% for lead. (6) Metallurgical recovery of silver for Tailings Deposit No. 4 was assumed at 53%. (7) Metal payable used for the Veins System, other minor deposits, the San Javier and Milagros Breccias and Tailings Deposit No. 4 was 99.6%. (8) Metal payable used for Ojuelas was 95% for silver and 95% for lead. (9) Silver equivalent grade for Ojuelas is estimated as: Ag-Eq = Ag Grade + (Pb Grade x Pb Recovery x Pb Payable x Pb Price x 2204.62) / (Ag Recovery x Ag Payable x Ag Price / 31.1035). (10) Tonnage is expressed in thousands of tonnes, silver content in thousands of ounces and lead content in thousands of pounds. (11) Totals may not add up due to rounding. (12) Measured an Indicated Mineral Resources are reported inclusive or Mineral Reserves. (13) Mineral Resources estimates for the San Javier Breccia, Milagros Breccia, Vein Systems areas and Tailings Deposit No. 4 were prepared under supervision of Jesus M. Velador Beltran, QP Geology for First Majestic and estimates for the Ojuelas area were prepared under supervision of Peter Oshust, P.Geo. of Amec Foster Wheeler.

The updated Mineral Reserve and Resource estimate consists of 30.6 million ounces of silver in the Proven and Probable Reserve category, representing a 9% increase primarily due to the upgrading of tailings to reserves, offset by annual depletion and the lower silver price assumption; 31.4 million ounces of silver in Measured and Indicated Resources, representing a decrease of 15% from the previous estimate; plus 7.2 million silver ounces in Inferred Resources representing a 23% decrease from the previous estimate due to the upgrading of the tailings resource to reserves. There is further upside potential for total ounces assuming exploration success and conversion of the Inferred Resource to Measured and Indicated Resources or Proven and Probable Reserves through additional drilling and development.

IMPROVING RECOVERIES WITH ROASTING

Since 2012, the Company has evaluated numerous technologies and milling procedures to improve metallurgical recoveries of the existing aboveground tailings. The Company began testing ore samples using an onsite 50 tpd roasting furnace in early 2013. Initial test results showed substantial improvements in silver recoveries, increasing from approximately 15% to 70%. However, due to the high cost of diesel used as the energy source for roasting, the Company deemed the project uneconomical and continued testing alternative heating sources. In 2015, an instrumented 25 tpd roasting pilot plant was built offsite to test the use of propane and results confirmed the improvement in silver recoveries, in addition, leaching times were reduced from 72 hours to less than 36 hours. The Company also began testing the use of coal, routinely used as a heating source in roasters in the cement industry in Mexico, as a source of low cost energy. Preliminary results indicate that the roasting project using coal is economical at current silver prices, allowing the Company to proceed with additional operational and economic studies as well as full-scale plant design. The estimated capital investment to construct a roasting plant and its satellite facilities would be approximately $8.8 million and take 12 months to bring into production. The Company is expected to make a construction decision, pending the results of the additional studies, by the end of 2016.

In addition to improving recoveries, there are a number of cost reduction initiatives being implemented at La Encantada to help offset the decrease in revenues due to lower silver prices including the migration of fuel for power generation, from diesel to liquid natural gas (LNG), optimization of the development layouts, and renegotiation of development and haulage contracts with suppliers. The newly constructed LNG facility has now passed its testing phase and is expected to be fully operational in April. The facility will supply 100% of the power requirement to the operation and the existing diesel generators will be put on care and maintenance. The Company expects to realize a 20% reduction in power costs as a result of the switch to LNG. Furthermore, the Company anticipates utilizing the same LNG technology at the Santa Elena mine in order to further reduce operating costs.

LIFE OF MINE

The 8.5 year life of mine (LOM) plan is based on an annual processing rate of 660,000 tonnes of plant feed consisting of mineralized material from underground reserves in the first four years and an annual rate of 660,000 tonnes of tailings to be roasted and reprocessed beginning in 2018. The estimated LOM represents a Net Present Value (NPV) of $28.6 million based on a 5% discount rate.

There are several aspects that could increase the LOM while maintaining current production levels, including the conversion of Inferred Resources into Proven and Probable Reserves (historic conversion factor has been approximately 50%), and production from areas not included in reserves. The La Encantada plant has a crushing and grinding capacity in excess of 990,000 tonnes per year and the operation has historically mined and processed at these higher production levels by including ore from outside of known reserves and resources which demonstrates not only the Company's ability to identify and process undefined reserves but the exploration potential of this prolific region of Coahuila. Over the past three years, approximately 60% of the plant feed came from reserves with the difference coming from aboveground screened stockpiles and ore from undefined/unknown underground resources. In addition, exploration around the Ojuelas deposit and the skarn dome continue to show great potential to increase the volume and confidence classification of the resource.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Company's Qualified Persons are of the opinion that the La Encantada property has the potential for hosting additional resources at the skarn dome south of the Ojuelas deposit and around the known vein systems, San Javier and Milagros breccias. Additional step out drilling is recommended to be completed to explore the potential of massive sulphide replacements between the skarn dome and Ojuelas deposit. A previous drill intercept from hole EC-05, which ended while still encountering mineralization approximately 500 metres southwest of the Ojuelas deposit, intersected 1.7 metres averaging 244 g/t silver highlighting the potential to build additional resources in this prolific area.

Mr. Ramon Mendoza Reyes, Vice President Technical Services for First Majestic, is a "qualified person" as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101, and has reviewed and approved the technical information disclosed in this news release.

First Majestic is a mining company focused on silver production in Mexico and is aggressively pursuing the development of its existing mineral property assets and the pursuit through acquisition of additional mineral assets which contribute to the Company achieving its corporate growth objectives.

FIRST MAJESTIC SILVER CORP.

Keith Neumeyer, President & CEO

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the price of silver and other metals; the accuracy of mineral reserve and resource estimates and estimates of future production and costs of production at our properties; estimated production rates for silver and other payable metals produced by us, the estimated cost of development of our development projects; the effects of laws, regulations and government policies on our operations, including, without limitation, the laws in Mexico which currently have significant restrictions related to mining; obtaining or maintaining necessary permits, licences and approvals from government authorities; and continued access to necessary infrastructure, including, without limitation, access to power, land, water and roads to carry on activities as planned.

These statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: fluctuations in the spot and forward price of silver, gold, base metals or certain other commodities (such as natural gas, fuel oil and electricity); fluctuations in the currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar and Mexican peso versus the U.S. dollar); changes in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada, Mexico; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; 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); risks relating to the credit worthiness or financial condition of suppliers, refiners and other parties with whom the Company does business; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining, including those currently enacted in Mexico; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability and 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; diminishing quantities or grades of mineral reserves as properties are mined; the Company's title to properties; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form, under the caption "Risks Relating to First Majestic's Business".

Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
Vancouver, BC (FSCwire) - Prima Diamond Corp. (TSXv: PMD, FSE: 2P6) (Prima) (the Company) is pleased to announce the results from its Annual General and Special Meeting held on March 21, 2016 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

A total of 15,807,750 common shares (48.32% of the outstanding shares) were represented at the Meeting.

Each of the director nominees proposed by management for election were elected by 100% of the votes that were cast. Dusan Berka, Sean Charland, Darryl Jones and Foster Wilson were elected to the Board of Directors.

Foster Wilson and Darryl Jones are new directors of the Company. Mr. Wilson has over 30 years of experience in exploration and development ranging from reserve drilling and estimation, feasibility studies, mine permitting and development. He has worked in various capacities for Placer Dome Inc., Echo Bay Mines Ltd., American Bonanza Gold Corp. and various junior exploration companies.

Mr. Jones has over 12 years of capital market experience and an established financial network. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Jones was an Investment Advisor with PI Financial Corp Canada and Raymond James Ltd Canada. He was responsible for raising significant risk capital for growth companies in all sectors, with a particular focus on natural resources. Mr. Jones brings a network of contact within the financial community from across North America and Europe.

At the meeting, shareholders also approved the following resolutions:

Appointment of MNP LLP Chartered Accountants, as auditors for the ensuing year and authorizing the directors to fix their remuneration;

Approval of the 2016 Stock Option Plan;

Approval to consolidate the share capital of the Company on the basis of five pre-consolidated common shares for every one post consolidated common share;

Adoption of new Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as set out in the Management Information Circular as filed on SEDAR; and

Adoption of advance notice provisions to the new Articles of the Company.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

PRIMA DIAMOND CORP.

David Hodge

David Hodge

President and CEO

Tel: 604.681.1568

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information which is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For example forward looking statements in this press release include that the share consolidation of five old for one new will occur. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these statements from coming to fruition include that our shareholders may not approve the share consolidation, the TSXV may not approve the acquisition on the negotiated terms, creditors may not complete debt settlements, we may not raise sufficient funds to carry out our plans, changing costs for mining and processing; increased capital costs; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations based on current data that may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumption based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits that with further test work may not be comparable; the availability of labour, equipment and markets for the products produced; and despite the current expected viability of the project, that the minerals on our property cannot be economically mined, or that the required permits to build and operate the envisaged mine cannot be obtained. The forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.
[JURIST] The Bangladesh Supreme Court [official website] on Monday threw out a petition introduced by secular activists that sought the removal of Islam as the state religion. Before the case began, a three-judge panel rejected [AFP report] the petition and did not entertain any testimony in relation to the claims brought by the activists. The petition at issue was created 28 years ago and has been historically criticized by numerous Islamist groups within the country. Activist and religious minorities of the nation expressed disappointment with the preemptive court ruling, arguing that they should have a voice in the decision.

In March, the Bangladesh high court found two ministers guilty of contempt [JURIST report] after they had publicly criticized the chief justice of the court. The two ministers, Food Affairs Minister Qamrul Islam and Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haq had criticized Chief Justice Sk Sinha earlier this month, making derogatory comments and demanding he remove himself from an appeals case involving an Islamist leader that was sentenced to death [JURIST report]. In June a Bangladeshi court gave Syed Mohammed Hasan Ali, a fugitive commander of an auxiliary force of Pakistani troops, the death sentence [JURIST report] for torture and massacre in the Liberation War. Last April a Bangladeshi appeals court rejected [JURIST report] a final appeal by Muhammad Kamaruzzaman, an Islamist party official convicted of war crimes during the 1971 Liberation war, upholding his death sentence.
[JURIST] The Bangladesh Supreme Court [official website] on Sunday found two ministers guilty of contempt after they had publicly criticized the chief justice of the court. The two ministers, Food Affairs Minister Qamrul Islam and Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haq,had criticized [Daily Mail report] Chief Justice Sk Sinha earlier this month, making derogatory comments and demanding he remove himself from an appeals case involving an Islamist leader sentenced to death [JURIST report] after the Supreme Court upheld the sentence. The two ministers were fined [Indian Express report] 50,000 taka (USD $625) each and their position in the Cabinet is now in doubt.

The International Crimes Tribunal Bangladesh (ICTB) [official website], established in 2009 under the International Crimes Act [text], is charged with investigating and prosecuting war crimes committed during the 1971 conflict. Rights groups such as Amnesty International have criticized [JURIST report] death sentences imposed by the ICTB, stating that trials of war criminals have, in the past, failed to meet international standards. In June a Bangladeshi court gave Syed Mohammed Hasan Ali, a fugitive commander of an auxiliary force of Pakistani troops, a death sentence [JURIST report] for torture and massacre in the Liberation War. Last April a Bangladeshi appeals court rejected [JURIST report] a final appeal by Muhammad Kamaruzzaman, an Islamist party official convicted of war crimes during the 1971 Liberation war, upholding his death sentence.
[JURIST] A man shot by police in Brussels on Friday was charged on Saturday with membership of a terror group after being connected to a raid in France that thwarted a possible terrorist attack. The man, A. Abderrahmane, was shot and arrested [Newstalk report] at a tram stop in the district of Schaerbeek in Brussels, and was then detained for 24 hours until being charged Saturday. The Belgian press agency Belga [official website] stated that the potential attack that was foiled by the raid was connected to the bombings in Brussels [Independent report] last week that killed 31 people.

The Islamic State (IS) [JURIST backgrounder], which has claimed responsibility for the attacks, has been accused of war crimes on a massive scale in Iraq and Syria. IS also claimed responsibility for the November attacks in Paris [JURIST report]. Authorities have reported [USA Today report] that that evidence gathered in three countries shows a close working relationship between terrorists who struck in Brussels on Tuesday and in Paris in November. Authorities have detained at least 11 people in operations in Belgium, France and Germany and have confirmed that one of the suicide bombers at Brussels Airport was the bomb maker related to the two suicide vests used in the Paris attacks. According to US counterterrorism officials, the ongoing police operations suggest [CNN report] that authorities are working towards preventing the next attack; investigators know of additional plots [CNN report] in Europe in various stages of planning.
[JURIST] Mississippi lawmakers [official website] on Saturday reintroduced a bill [text] that would allow for execution by firing squad as an alternative to lethal injection. Attorney General Jim Hood [official website] stated [press release] earlier this year that he planned on pursuing alternatives to lethal injection for the death penalty in the state. He stated in earlier March [press release] that he supports the bills reconsideration and passage through the senate. According to the Death Penalty Information Center [advocacy website], Utah [fact sheet] is the only state that has executed someone by firing squad since the resumption of the death penalty.

Capital punishment [JURIST op-ed] remains a controversial issue in the US. This week a Missouri state judge ordered [JURIST report] the Missouri Department of Corrections to disclose the source of the execution drug used by the state in order to comply with the Missouri sunshine law. Last week the Supreme Court of Ohio ruled [JURIST report] that the state can execute a man whose execution was halted in 2009 after a failed attempt to administer lethal injection drugs. Earlier in March Florida Governor Rick Scott signed into law a bill [JURIST report] revamping the states death penalty law. The changes are in response to the US Supreme Court ruling in January that the states previous sentencing scheme was unconstitutional [JURIST report]. In February the US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit rejected [JURIST report] a Georgia death row inmates legal challenge to the death penalty. In January Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood stated that he plans to ask lawmakers to approve the firing squad, electrocution or nitrogen gas as alternate methods of execution if the state prohibits lethal injection [JURIST report].
North Carolina individuals and civil rights groups filed [complaint,PDF] a lawsuit on Monday against Governor Pat McCrory [official website] claiming the bill signed last week regarding transgender discrimination is unconstitutional and discriminatory [press release]. The bill (H.B. 2) [text, PDF], also known as the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, requires students to use bathrooms and changing facilities that correspond with their biological sex, regardless of the students gender identity. This requirement will be enforced in all public agencies, which includes government buildings and public universities. Additionally, the law prohibits any local government from passing ordinances to allow individuals to use bathrooms or changing facilities that correspond with their gender identity. The plaintiffs in the case are seeking a declaratory judgment that the law violates their constitutional and statutory rights, as well as a preliminary and permanent injunction preventing enforcement of the bill.

Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity has been a controversial issue in the US. McCrory signed [JURIST report] the bill into law last week in response to an ordinance passed in Charlotte last month, which created greater protections against discrimination based on gender expression and identity. Earlier this month the Georgia state legislature approved a bill to allow faith-based establishments, including churches, schools and other organizations, to refuse service or employment [JURIST report] to same-sex couples based on their religious beliefs. Also this month the Kentucky Senate approved a bill allowing businesses to refuse service [JURIST report] to gays and lesbians based upon their religious beliefs. Earlier in March South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard vetoed a bill [JURIST report] that would have required public school students to use the bathroom or locker room corresponding to their sex at birth. In December the US District Court for the Central District of California ruled [JURIST report] that sexual discrimination is prohibited under a law that protects gender-based discrimination. In November President Barack Obama expressed support [JURIST report] for legislation that would ban discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity through an amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
[JURIST] Sudans State Minister of Social Welfare [official website, in Arabic] on Sunday signed [UN press release] a United Nations (UN) [official website] action plan that will establish new measures to protect children from armed conflict. Under the new agreement, Sudans national security forces will put an end to child recruitment and release all children currently withheld. The Sudanese government has promised to cooperate with the UN and appoint members to ensure the proper implementation of the action plan. Furthermore, the minister has stated his commitment to strengthening principles of the Child Act of 2010 [text, PDF] and the Sudan Armed Forces Act of 2007 [text, PDF]. With the new action plan, Sudan became the seventh country to join a worldwide campaign to end child recruitment for national security purposes.

Children have been at-risk groups in various conflicts worldwide. Earlier this month, the Myanmar government released 46 underage and child recruits from the military [JURIST report] as part of a UN joint action plan made in 2012. In February UN envoy Leila Zerrougui reported [JURIST report] that children worldwide continued to face human rights violations in 2015, particularly in Middle Eastern and African countries. Also in February, Human Rights Watch declared [JURIST report] that hostiles in eastern Ukraine had damaged or destroyed hundreds of schools, many of which were being used for military purposes. Furthermore, UN human rights experts in Nigeria urged [JURIST report] the government to guarantee the safety of areas liberated from Boko Haram. Also earlier this month, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Raad Al Hussein, expressed [JURIST report] utmost alarm at the worsening situation in Syria and said that parties were constantly sinking to new depths attacking women, children, the sick and the elderly. In August, the UN reported [JURIST report] that the number of women and children being hurt or killed in Afghanistans war against the Taliban have risen by 23 and 13 percent, respectively.
The US Supreme Court [official website] on Monday granted certiorari [order list, PDF] in Moon v. United States and Jeffries v. United States [dockets], both dealing with criminal sentencing. The cases had ben remanded to the US Courts of Appeals for the Third Circuit and the Fifth Circuit [official websites], respectively, with instructions to consider the cases in the light of Johnson v. United States [opinion, PDF]. This case ruled that increased sentences of felons charged with illegal possession of a firearm under the Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) [text] violates the Fifth Amendment due process clause [LII backgrounder] due to the vague language [JURIST report] of the ACCA.

In Moon v. United States, Moon was arrested and convicted for robbing a bank. He was sentenced to 240 months in prison and given a $5,000 fine. Due to Moons prior record, including a history of bank robbery, this case falls under the ACCA ruling and must be reexamined. In Jeffries v. United States, Jeffries was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute large amounts of cocaine. The cocaine recovered held a street value of more than $10,000, and a handgun and large sum of money were also found. Prior to this arrest, Jeffries had multiple misdemeanor charges, some of which could have been determined violent under the ACCA before Johnson. In January, the Supreme Court granted certiorari [JURIST report] to Welch v. United States, a case determining retroactive application of Johnson. Following the ruling, circuit courts have been split [SCOTUSblog report] regarding whether the ruling should be applied to all inmates currently serving ACCA enhanced sentences. The Supreme Court likely granted certiorari in the present cases to resolve the disagreement.
[JURIST] The Federal Supreme Court [official website] of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) issued sentences on Sunday for 41 defendants connected to a terrorist plot to bomb malls and hotels. All 41 defendants were charged with possessing firearms and ammunition for terrorist purposes [Reuters report], though 7 defendants were acquitted. As for the rest, 23 defendants received up to 15 years jail time while 11 defendants received life sentences for raising monetary support for al Queda and the Islamic State. Amongst the 11 sentenced defendants was Khalid Abdulla Kalantar, an extremist preacher from Dubai and founder of the focal terrorist group Shabab Al Manara. Kalantar formed [National report] the group, also referred to as Minarets Youth, by recruiting young Emirati and non-Emirati outcasts with criminal records. The Court ordered [WAM report] the immediate dissolution of the terrorist group and the confiscation of all found weapons and equipment.

The Islamic State (IS) [JURIST backgrounder], which has claimed responsibility for the recent bombings in Brussels [Independent report], has been accused of war crimes on a massive scale in Iraq and Syria. IS also claimed responsibility for the November attacks in Paris [JURIST report]. On Sunday, Brussels authorities charged [JURIST report] a shooter connected to both the Brussels bombing and a thwarted terrorist plot in France. Authorities have reported [USA Today report] that that evidence gathered in three countries shows a close working relationship between terrorists who struck in Brussels on Tuesday and in Paris in November. Authorities have detained at least 11 people in operations in Belgium, France and Germany and have confirmed that one of the suicide bombers at Brussels Airport was the bomb maker related to the two suicide vests used in the Paris attacks. According to US counterterrorism officials, the ongoing police operations suggest [CNN report] that authorities are working towards preventing the next attack and investigators have identified additional plots [CNN report] in various stages of planning in Europe.
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon [official profile] released a statement [statement] on Sunday condemning the suicide bombers who targeted Pakistani Christians celebrating the Easter holiday in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park. The Secretary-General urged the Pakistani government to work towards ensuring safety for all, especially those who are members of religious minorities. More than 60 people were killed and over 100 were injured, a large number of whom were women and children. The Pakistani Talibans Jamaat-ur-Ahrar group, which previously has declared loyalty to the Islamic State (IS), claimed responsibility [Reuters report] for the attack.

The threat to Christians in the Middle East has heightened in past years as radical extremists have increasingly targeted attacks on this religious group. In February, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned [JURIST report] the beheading of Coptic Christians in Libya by IS, characterizing the acts as vile crime[s] targeting people on the basis of their religion. The Egyptian Christians were abducted in two separate incidents, and a released video showed members of IS beheading the captives on a beach in Libya. Earlier that month, Egypts state-run National Council for Human Rights (NCHR) [official website] publicly condemned recent violent attacks against the nations Coptic Christians. Islamist extremists are believed to be behind attacks [CNN report] such as the burning of churches and property owned by Christians, along with the displacement of Christian citizens. Coptic Christians comprise roughly 10 percent of the countrys 85 million people and more than 275 people were killed and 2,000 injured in the course of the attacks. These citizens have become a scapegoat for the ousting of Egyptian ex-president Mohamed Morsi [BBC profile], and recent attacks are widely seen as retaliation from Morsi supporters, the Muslim Brotherhood [BBC profile]. In September 2013, Ki-moon released a similar statement condemning [statement] a terrorist attack [CNN report] on a Christian church in Peshawar, Pakistan, which killed more than 80 people and wounded more than 100.
Dallas, Texas, USA, 03/28/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/

According to Dallas Business Lawyer Mike Young, there are some common errors entrepreneurs make when entering into business contracts. Here are five mistakes that you can prevent from happening by taking a few minutes to review a draft agreement before finalizing the deal.

Mistake 1  Parties Misidentified In Business Contracts.

Because company owners and management are busy with other tasks, its common to enter into an agreement that actually identifies the wrong parties. For example, an entrepreneur may be identified in a contract as one of the parties but the companys name is nowhere to be found. When the entrepreneur signs the agreement as an individual, personal liability attaches rather than having the deal be an obligation of the entrepreneurs corporation or limited liability company as it should have been.

Mistake 2  Wrong Person Signs The Agreements.

Particularly with supply contracts, its common for business owners to tell low-level employees, temps, and even freelancers working in-house to sign off on agreements. This is dangerous for the company as obligations can be assumed that are not in the companys best interest because of unfavorable terms that management would have rejected had time been taken to actually review the agreement before execution.

From an enforcement perspective, it can be tough to insist a party fulfill the terms of an agreement when the signature is from someone who is not a principal or manager of the company evading performance.

Mistake 3  Key Terms Are Too Vague To Enforce.

Vague terms can make a contract unenforceable. A good rule of thumb for reviewing a draft agreement for specificity is to answer the following questions.

 Who?

 What?

 When?

 Where?

 How?

If youre having trouble answering these questions about the scope of a proposed business contract, chances are theres at least one issue that needs to be clarified before the agreement can be inked.

To learn all five costly mistakes to avoid in your business contracts and other tips for entrepreneurs, go to

http://mikeyounglaw.com/business-contracts/

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A collapse of ethics, jihadist terrorism and the nation-state. A search of a new path towards transnational citizenship?

by Evangelos Areteos

I have to open my suitcase while a policeman is doing a thorough body search on a man next to me. Around us are policemen with dogs and heavy-armed soldiers with their fingers on the triggers of their guns.

I am at the railroad station just below the European Parliament in Brussels, almost twenty-four hours after the terrorist attacks. The big square in front of the Parliament is always full with people. Now its empty. The few people passing by look around them with fear.

For some moments I have the feeling that I am in another dimension, that I lose the sense of time and space. The heart of Europe resembled The Waste Land of T.S. Eliot, this complex long poem about the psychological and cultural crisis that came with the loss of moral and cultural identity after World War I.

While a helicopter was flying over us in the EU neighborhood in Brussels, I suddenly felt like as if, in the last two weeks before the attacks in Brussels, I had been traveling in a vast waste land, from Turkey to Greece and back to Turkey and then to Brussels. A vast land dominated by deep disillusionment and a dramatic collapse of ethics.

My trip in this land started two weeks before the Brussels attacks, on the Greek island of Lesvos next to the Turkish shores. I followed the track of refugees crossing the Aegean Sea and then to Greece, up to its northern border with Macedonia.

That first night of my journey I was on the beach next to the airport of Lesvos. At one oclock in the morning, the volunteers whom I was accompanying had spotted a boat with refugees coming from Turkey. It was first a dim light in the darkness of the Aegean Sea, only experienced volunteers saw it first, then the light of the boat grew and, at the end, a voice tore through the air: Boat! Boat!

The volunteers were from Greece, other European countries and the US. They were mostly young people, but among them there were also some elders and more professional volunteers like Nasos, a veteran of the Greek Marine, or like Jose, a professional firefighter from Spain who had gone to Lesvos to help refugees, taking a two-week leave from his job.

The landing of the rubber dinghies packed with people is very dangerous; the refugees are terrorized, most do not know how to swim and when the boats reach the Greek coast they are exhausted. No representative of the state nor of the EU were around to be found, only volunteers who were there to save lives.

When the rubber dinghy approached, volunteer lifeguards entered the water to stabilize it amongst the violent waves and to pull it closer to the beach. Then a human chain formed to bring the refugees from the rubber dinghy to the beach. I was not a volunteer, I was just a journalist who happened to be there. But the power of this human chain was so mesmerizing that I went in the cold waters to become part of it.

At first I thought that she was lightweight and I didnt put much strength into lifting her from the rubber dinghy and carrying her to the beach. But once I lifted her and she let herself fall in my arms, I suddenly felt like her weight pulverized me. Her body was petrified, her clothes soaking wet.

I put all my strength into it as I began to walk, carrying her through the water to the beach. I repeatedly told her OK, stupidly thinking that this would reassure her. Her eyes were hollow, empty, as if she didnt see what was happening, as if she was not present in all these things happening to her. It was raining heavily that night in Lesvos, loud voices came from everywhere, the faces around me were dancing frantically between the darkness of the night and the violent light of the flashlights.

Rain was falling into my eyes and at times obstructed my vision. But now I know that it was not only rain that was preventing me from seeing clearly throughout the night. It was something deep inside me that was resisting the reality and was slyly whispering that all this cannot be real in Greece and in Europe in 2016.

The young woman I was trying to carry onto the beach suddenly started shouting at me in a language I couldnt understand persistently pointing to the rubber dinghy. She was shouting and she pinned herself down on the wet sand while I tried to pull her to the point further up the beach where volunteers provided first aid and blankets. Abruptly, a man holding a small child in his arms came towards us and hugged the woman. It was her child that the man was carrying.

I went three more times to the boat, once to carry an old woman who seemed to be so incredibly heavy that she required the help of another volunteer to carry her belongings ashore. When the boat was empty and its wreckage was ingloriously lying on the sand, I distanced myself a bit. I fell on my knees and I cried in the darkness  out of shame as a human being in front of all this suffering and out of rage as a citizen in front of all this moral breakdown of our Europe.

* * *

Three days before the terrorist attack in Brussels, the EU had finally reached an agreement with Turkey on the refugee issue. After several hours of haggling and political-diplomatic bargaining, the deal that was decided erected the tombstone of any moral superiority that was left in Europe and our contemporary European civilization.

The agreement is ethically disgraceful as it institutionalized a bargain between European member states in order to keep all these people fleeing the horrors of war and extinction away from our Europe. Also, because the EU remains silent in front of the growing authoritarianism under Erdogan, it has shamelessly betrayed all those in Turkey who believed that the EU and its ideals will serve as a beacon for democratic reforms in their own country.

The agreement is legally disgraceful because it violates the basic principles and values of human rights and humanity.

Last, but not least, the agreement is politically offensive. It promises Turkey certain things that the EU does not want to deliver and it asks that Greece and its failed state build an asylum system from scratch that even the most advanced countries in the Union do not have. It is equally shameless because it turns Greece into a huge refugee camp, contradicting once again the idea of European solidarity.

Every political leader had his own agenda, his or her own fears that in their own country they will be threatened by the spectacular rise of nationalist and xenophobic forces as well as the desire to avoid doing anything in order to keep the barbarians at their countrys gates.

This agreement should not be a surprise. It is yet another symptom of the ethical decay of our continent and of the tragic dereliction of our human values and principles. But it is not the only one.

The decay goes even further, with Donald Tusk begging refugees via his Twitter account to not cross the Aegean Sea because Greeces northern borders have been sealed. After the disreputable management of the economic crisis, the EU took the last steps that separates it from complete delegitimization.

Europe has raised new walls at its external borders and institutionalizes them with the vain hope that they would protect its societies and its eroded systems from their contemporary barbarians. We spent five days with these barbarians and with the photographer Eleni Papadopoulou, following them from Lesvos to Piraeus and then from Athens to the hell that is Idomeni, right on Greeces border with Macedonia. There, behind the walls donned with barbed wire, the EU is sinking into a pool of mud and human feces.

In Idomeni, when we initially entered while the nightfall was approaching and a light rain was persistently soaking humans and tents, we thought that we were in a science fiction movie, this kind of end-of-the-world expensive Hollywood blockbusters. During these last two weeks that I have been traveling in Greece, Turkey and then ultimately in Brussels, I have often felt like I lose the dimension of time and space. It is as if all that I see around me, in my own country and in the EU I so strongly believed in, reemerge directly from our bloody past or come from a nightmarish future.

Idomeni is filled with broken lives and devastated humans, but still enough strength to fight for survival and hope. Volunteers are everywhere, states and institutions represented only by police and about fifteen thousand men, women and children anxiously awaiting the EU Summit on 18 March. Hoping that Europe will open the border and will accept them. That humanity and those ethics are still part of Europe. In vain.

Waste Land was also Istanbul the weekend before the attacks in Brussels. On Saturday morning, a suicide bomber from the Islamic State was killed as he was blowing up tourists on the pedestrian avenue of Istiklal, in the heart of Istanbul. This event was yet another terrorist strike in a series of deadly attacks that began last summer.

All through the weekend, the center of Istanbul was empty, people were afraid that all this was just the beginning. This same fear, although the immediate reasons may be different, paralyzed Brussels the day I arrived from Istanbul. With thorough security checks everywhere, people were filled with suspicion and fear. The tall buildings of the EU institutions surrounded by policemen and soldiers were almost empty and suddenly looked like wreckages from an unachieved past.

* * *

From the ashes of this ethical debris of the European civilization and the European project that were born after the Second World War and, in reaction to all the ignominies of that past, the nation-state and its populist hubris are emerging as the big winners.

After the shallow euphoria of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the victory of cosmopolitan progressivism, Europe, under the weight of a broader and profound moral crisis, returns to nationalism, xenophobia and same blood, same culture utopias. The nation-state does a violent come-back and is promoted by increasingly larger segments of European societies and elites as a panacea for all problems, legitimizing the corrosion even the blunt violation of human rights and fundamental principles of liberal societies.

The nation-state, together with an unbridled populism, sets the pace for political and social life in Europe and its neighbors, ferociously resisting the only common solution we should all push for: more Europe.

Tayyip Erdogans Turkey is not an exception, there is no Turkish exception or Turkish specificity. What is happening in Turkey today is the same as what is happening, albeit in different ways and rhythms, in Europe: an extreme strengthening of the nation state and its exclusive idea of community, an extreme cultural introversion that, in Turkey, has taken on a Sunni-Turkish character while in European countries it has gradually taken a Judeo-Christian-national character, and an authoritarianism that has roots in western authoritarian traditions and methods. This cocktail is heavily spiced with rampant populism, not different in its essence from what is happening in Hungary or Poland, these two countries far from being the only European examples.

The deep moral decadence plaguing Europe and the world around is deeply rooted in chronic economic and social inequalities, but most of all in the prevalence of a broader culture of populism and fascism, as described by Rob Riemen in The Eternal Return of Fascism, dominating the mass culture and extinguishing any prospect or aspiration to higher values and ethics.

However, European leaders and a large part of European society continue to lie and to be blind, always putting the blame elsewhere: Refugees, Islam, integration models

While I was opening my suitcase for inspection at the police and army check point at the train station below the European Parliament, I wondered if behind all these terrible attacks in Brussels lies Islam and Islamism and the Belgian integration model.

Or I wonder if the horrible dystopia of the Islamic State that attracts many young people from Europe is a drug for people lost in the dominant nihilism and self-destructive egocentrism promoted by the ethical collapse of the European culture that turns them into apocalyptic aggressors of innocent lives. They are disoriented youth, deep in our contemporary culture of violent egocentrism and immediate gain and recognition, marginalized and full of hate for the society. The become easy prey for the messianic message of the Islamic State and its promises of ultra-violence and aggressive lust. Beyond all that, there is also an undeniable factor of individual free will and responsibility, that those people who join the Islamic State are responsible for their awful choice and their dreadful acts and there are absolutely no excuses.

The fact that the message has an Islamic cover seems to attract more people who come from Muslim families, but this has little to do with Islam per se.

What happens in the case of the Islamic State is not about Islam, but about a universal collapse of ethics and the victory of emptiness. And in that sense, Islams role is not lesser than secular or enlightened Europes  not in the sense of what some people wrongly argue as religion of violence and intolerance but as a culture that, despite a deep humanistic tradition, failed to promote a wider ethical superiority, just like the European culture fails to do today.

* * *

The apocalyptic terrorists of the Islamic State and its ideology are operating in the growing space of darkness created by this universal collapse of ethics. Europe, Turkey, the Balkans  we are all on the same course, in the same rubber dinghy crossing dark waters even if we continue to lie to ourselves. But our rubber dinghy is not alone. Somewhere, on a beach through the darkness, there are people trying to help.

All these thousands of young people from across Europe and the world increasingly fill the gaps left by the EU and the nation states. There are numerous activists, new generation ideologues who help refugees in Lesvos and Idomeni, who protest in Brussels against the disgraceful agreement, who demonstrate in Cairo and in Tehran and in Istanbul for more democracy

These new generations of active and activist transnational citizens are well conversed with social media and the internet and forge on despite the thousands of kilometers separating them, exchanging views and ideas. Of course, all these people are the minority, not all those who ascribe to this new generation are like them, far from it.

After all, the modern jihadis are also part of that same new generation and that is the darkest part. But history has taught us that the road towards humanity is forged by enlightened minorities, not from majorities.

Along with the universal ethical collapse and its various forms, history gives Nemesis and the return of an extreme nation-state as the new antidote: an innovative form of bottom-up transnational citizenship, a progressive and active citizenship that knows no borders, neither geographically nor culturally. And that has already started to make a small difference.

This article by Evangelos Areteos was originally published on 26 March 2016 in Dutch, in the Dutch daily de Volkskrant, and on 27 March 2016 in Greek in the Cypriot daily Politis, as well as on the Roving Correspondents blog. The pictures are courtesy of Eleni Papadopoulou, The article is reproduced here with the authors permission.
by Evangelos Areteos

Together with the photographer Eleni Papadopoulou, we spent six days following refugees from Turkey to Idomeni, northern Greece, through Lesvos, Piraeus and Athens for the cypriot daily POLITIS. (All photos are courtesy of Eleni Papadopoulou)

What we lived and what we saw was a great lesson of humanity and strength but also a painful experience of suffering. The texts and the photos are just one small part of what is really happening

WILL OF STEEL

The fate of thousands of refugees trapped in Greece and not only in Greece, but also the political and moral heritage of the EU will be decided by the Summit starting tomorrow in Brussels.

What we witness is a great bazaar where the politicians of the EU member States try to defend their national positions, to ensure the interests of their countries and to ensure their political survival as the refugee crisis is now an atomic time bomb ticking in the foundations of the systemic parties and politicians across the Old Continent.

A key issue for almost all member States, is to keep the refugees away from Europe and to ensure that those who eventually will come to the Old Continent will be the ones chosen by the Sates with their own criteria, ie the most educated, the youngest, the most healthy, the most integrational.

Few of those who take part in this big bazaar and who are shaping developments in Brussels are fully aware of the horrific conditions under which refugees live nor of the reasons why they have taken the road of the great escape.

Some politicians and high European officials went yesterday only for the first time in Idomeni.

European politicians and officials have simply forgotten that refugees are people, that behind this refugees are human lives, human suffering, human hopes. That the EU has forgotten that behind the refugees there are people is indicative of the dramatic moral decline to which the European project has come. The refugee crisis may actually turn to be the death certificate of the European Union a system of human values and principles.

At the same time, the fact that the EU considers that an agreement with a third country, which now happens to be the Tayyip Erdogans Turkey, will be able to hold the largest number of refugees outside European territory or ultimately that the sealing of the borders of the Balkan countries will keep refugees in Greece shows how far from reality are the European bureaucracies.

Most refugees fleeing their countries because if they stay there not only they face certain death, but many of them face a horrible death. Because in many cases how one dies makes a great difference.

All our fellow human beings, those who happened to be born in Syria of the Assads or Saddams Iraq or Talibans Afghanistan and not only these places, have no hope today than to get into Europe.

What the European diplomatic and political bureaucracies fail to see (or just refuse to see) is that for the refugees, the borders between Greece and Skopje or the rest of the borders towards central and western Europe, are obstacles that can be circumvented just as all the other obstacles-borders up to Greece. The power of these people is inexhaustible and their will is of steel.

And unfortunately, together with the strength and the will, there are networks of smugglers who dont lose the opportunity to take advantage of new situations, new routes.

As Amnesty International warned, the agreement that the European Union wants to strike with Turkey is inhumane. Among other things, any border closure will provide new opportunities for smugglers, notes Amnesty International and stresses that the new routes that smugglers will propose to refugees will be even more dangerous and much more expensive.

Among the dozens of refugees that we met during our journey from Turkey to Idomeni, through Lesvos, Piraeus and Athens, people with chronic health problems and disabilities are among the most representative examples of this will of steel. Those people who have left their countries and were of limited mobility or who should have access to treatment almost every day will not stop in Idomeni. They will not stop anywhere.

In the mud of Idomeni we saw many wheelchairs outside tents. And the last day before we left, we met Bashir. A Kurd from Hasakah in northern Syria where particularly harsh battles are still ongoing between Kurds and the jihadists of the Islamic State, Bashir was born without legs.

He left, together with two parents and siblings and their family from Hasakah a month ago. In the hazardous Turkish-Syrian border, Bashir was carried on the shoulders by the other family men. They fell, picked him up, dragged themselves on earth and stones, Bashirs hands had become a large wound.

Then by bus from the border to Izmir. And there, Bashir boarded with the help of family men in one of the rubber dinghies that smugglers are pushing into the dark and dangerous waters of the Aegean sea, towards Lesvos.

I was a little bit scared in this boat but I had a life jacket and I was with my family, he says with his broken Turkish. When borders in Idomeni closed for good, Bashir was blocked on the Greek side with his oldest sister and her family, the other family members and their parents manage to cross to Macedonia and from there to Germany.

I stay here, perhaps the border will open even for a moment and I can cross it. Maybe theres another way, he said and he went to his tent, spinning the wheels of his wheelchair.

Bashir was among the refugees tried to cross the Axios river to FYROM, two days ago.

Dalal is talking without much comfort in English but we talk without problem. We are in the kidney dialyses unit in the state hospital of Kilkis, about half an hour by car from Idomeni.

I need to make three dialyses per week, I do dialysis for the past four years.

Dalal is from Latakia, she was a nurse there. She left with her husband and their children and grandchildren before nearly a month. From Latakia to Izmir, passing the dangerous Turkish-Syrian border, she stayed five days without dialysis.

When I arrived in Izmir my body was very weak, I wanted to vomit and I could not stand on my feet. She had made a dialysis in Izmir, entered a rubber dinghies of the smugglers, fortunately we made it with the first attempt, she had two dialyses in Lesvos, one in Athens and she came to Idomeni.

I will wait here. Something might come up and we might somehow cross the borders to Europe and we ll move on. 

Next to Dalal, Hassan, a pharmacist from Damascus. He began to do dialysis two months ago in Syria. Yet he too followed with his family the road of the great escape.

And he does the roundtrip with the van of the Doctors without Borders from the mud of Idomeni to the hospital of Kilkis to do the dialysis.

Waiting for the decisions of the Unions leaders 

This article by Evangelos Areteos was originally published, along with the photos by Eleni Papadopoulou, on the Roving Correspondents blog on 16 March 2016. It is reproduced here with the authors permission. Other parts have been subsequently published (click on the links): Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5.
Nebraska legislators begin debate this week on Medicaid expansion with LB1032, the Transitional Health Insurance Program Act. Although it has been referred to by several different names, it is the fourth attempt at expansion of the Medicaid program in Nebraska. Under the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, states receive additional federal dollars at a match rate higher than existing Medicaid programs to expand the number of people eligible for government health coverage.

Previous unsuccessful efforts have attempted to expand traditional Medicaid coverage. LB1032 uses federal and state dollars to purchase private health insurance for working adults who meet income limits.

I unquestionably support expanding access to health care for Nebraskans. Access issues are complicated, and include the availability of providers, facilities and service availability, the regulatory burden on health care, and the cost of providing primary, emergency, and advanced care services.

In rural communities, having enough health care professionals and keeping cost of providing service reasonable are the greatest challenges facing our clinics and hospitals. Providing private health insurance to working adults does not solve the access and cost issues facing rural health care.

While the short-term and long-term policy discussion around the expansion of public health insurance continues, the Legislature will be addressing a very specific proposal in LB1032. The initial cost of LB1032 as proposed would be more than $1 billion over the course of the next decade. In an attempt to reduce the impact to the state General Fund, bill proponents have reworked it several times. The proposal to be debated on the floor will fund the states share of the expanded program using dollars from the Health Care Cash Fund.

Although the program is advertised as drawing down federal money, it still has a cost share to the Nebraska budget. The current fiscal note projects a cost of just shy of $10 million the first year, almost $54 million the second year, and $87.5 million the third year, when the program expires.

If extended, fourth-year state costs expand to $111 million. Based on projections, that is a $151 million state cost during the three-year life of the program. While proposed as a three-year pilot program, previous litigation has made eliminating a government entitlement program nearly impossible.

My strongest objection to LB1032 in its current form is the use of the Health Care Cash Fund to meet the state share of the cost. The Health Care Cash Fund receives the bulk of its revenue from the Tobacco Settlement Fund. Nebraska exemplified exceptional stewardship of the funds it received from the multi-state settlement with tobacco companies to address the increased health care costs borne by the state due to smoking.

Rather than use the settlement on one-time expenditures, the state established a fund that would last indefinitely to provide sustainable funding streams for tobacco settlement enforcement, tobacco prevention and control, and a host of other important health care programs. These include the Poison Control Center, minority health aid, county public health aid, developmental disability aid, respite care, the mental health/substance abuse regions, and provider rate increases for behavioral health. The long-term viability of the Health Care Cash Fund is vital to the sustainability of all of these critical programs.

Tapping the Health Care Cash Fund to purchase private insurance for working adults as proposed under LB1032 would jeopardize the long-term viability of the fund and most certainly lead to a loss of the funding streams for the above mentioned programs. I do not feel it is fiscally responsible to put at risk a successful, prudent, and wise decision by previous legislators in establishing the Health Care Cash Fund. The cost is much more than mere dollars and cents, it is the potential existence of proven, successful health care programs.

Sen. John Kuehn of Heartwell represents District 38 in the Nebraska Legislature. The district encompasses southwest Buffalo County and all of Clay, Franklin, Kearney, Nuckolls, Phelps and Webster counties.

@JohnKuehnDVM
FILE - In this June 29, 2015 file photo, Janice Dickinson arrives at the Los Angeles premiere of "Lord of the Freaks." Dickinson has revealed that shes got breast cancer and vows to battle the disease. She told the Daily Mail of London that a pea-size lump was found on her right breast during a doctor visit on March 8. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP, File)
MICHAEL B. SHANE The Prima Trio are (from left), Gulia Gurevich, Boris Allakhverdyan and Anastasia Dedik.

SHARE MICHAEL B. SHANE The Prima Trio are (from left), Gulia Gurevich, Boris Allakhverdyan and Anastasia Dedik.

By Michael C. Moore, mmoore@kitsapsun.com

There are several good reasons for there not to be a Prima Trio. But they're all trumped by one overarching thing, according to violinist and violist Gulia Gurevich.

"The beauty of our group, what really helped us stay together and have the special relationship we have, is that we're also great friends," Gurevich said during a recent phone conversation from her Los Angeles-area home, as the Prima Trio began preparations to gather in Bremerton for an April 9 concert at the Admiral Theatre. "The trio is our priority. We've been together so long, we're basically family members by now."

Not that there aren't forces at work trying to separate the three, who met as students at Ohio's Oberlin Conservatory of Music. Gurevich's fairly recent move to the West Coast, with her husband and two children, has made the trio a nationwide concern: Pianist Anastasia Dedik lives and teaches in New York, and until recently clarinetist Boris Allakhverdyan was based in Kansas City.

"We're officially based in New York," Gurevich said. "I fly there for rehearsals, and to get ready for our performances."

Allakhverdyan's recent appointment as principal clarinetist for the Los Angeles Philharmonic has the potential to change the venue for those rehearsals, though, and make Dedik the commuter.

There's more to getting the trio together than just location, though. All three are in-demand solo and orchestral performers and educators. Gurevich and Dedik both have families, as well, and Gurevich is studying conducting with a professor at the University of Southern California.

Since 2004, though, when the threesome came together at Oberlin  initially because of their shared Russian language  the Prima Trio have been a going concern.

"We decided while we were at Oberlin," Gurevich said, "'We're friends. Why don't we start playing together?'"

The first piece they played together was a trio by Aram Khatchaturian that was suggested by Allakhverdyan.

"The piece really spoke to us," Gurevich said. "We decided to start working on it, and soon we were preparing it and two other pieces for competition. That trio remains in Prima's repertoire to this day, and she listed it as one of six pieces that will be on the program for the concert at the Admiral.

The combination paid serious dividends. They won the Grand Prize in their first major international exposure, the 2007 Fischoff Chamber Music Competition. That set them on a course that saw them performing on some of the world's most prestigious stages.

"I think that's when we knew we were doing the right thing," Gurevich said, breaking into a laugh as she added, "We enter our first big competition and we win. That's a pretty good sign."

They've also added recording to their get-together activities. Their first CD, "Prima," was released in 2012, and Gurevich said they currently are at work on a second. The Khatchaturian is among the selections on the "Prima" CD, along with several others she said were likely to be included in the Admiral program  an American piece, "Serenade for Three" by Richard Schickele, that is a perennial concert favorite for the trio; and two pieces by Astor Piazzolla, "Oblivion" and "Otono Porteno." (The other pieces she said would probably be played at the Admiral are another concert staple, Glick's "The Klezmer's Wedding," and Robert Schumann's "Marchenerzalungen (Fairy Tales)," for which Gurevich trades in her violin for a viola.)

"We're hoping to get 'The Klezmer's Wedding' on the second CD," she said. "We've had so many requests from people who wanted us to record it."

Despite their heady triumphs in classical music circles, Gurevich said the trio enjoy taking their music to less formal venues like the subscription-series, apres-dinner concert they'll play at the Admiral.

"We feel that all music can speak and appeal to all people," she said, adding that the pieces they'll play at the Admiral all are tried-and-true concert favorites. "We hope that at the end they can leave with a beautiful feeling of being introduced to our art."

PREVIEW

PRIMA TRIO

Where: Admiral Theatre, 515 Pacific Ave., Bremerton

When: 7 p.m. April 9; dinner with reservation served at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets: $84-$15

Information: 360-373-6743, admiraltheatre.org
Jack (played by Andrew Knickerbocker) is lectured by his mother (Carol Chollar) during a recent rehearsal for Bremerton Community Theatre's production of "Into the Woods."

SHARE The Baker (Cailin Mackenzie) and The Bakers Wife (Kelly Skiff) hear about the curse placed on them by The Witch (Alicia Rodenko). Cinderella (Amy Musselwhite, middle) helps stepsisters Lucinda (Amanda Pugh, left) and Florinda (Erin Abbott) prepare for the ball. The Narrator (Corey Suraci) keeps audience members up on what's going on in the fairy-tale mashup "Into the Woods." STEVE ZUGSCHWERDT | FOR KITSAP A&E Rapunzel (Brittany Maddox, middle) gets advice from both sides  her prince (Isaac Ettobi) on one, her mother (Alicia Rodenko) on the other.

By Michael C. Moore, mmoore@kitsapsun.com

BREMERTON  Persistence finally paid off for Christopher Borer, who's been lobbying Bremerton Community Theatre to produce the musical "Into the Woods," and let him direct it.

"I've been submitting it for I don't know how many years," said Borer, who moves back into BCT's Montgomery Auditorium for "Into the Woods" after last year's production of the chamber musical "Company" in the Robert B. Stewart Performance Hall.

"I'm thrilled. It's one of my favorites," added Borer, who also directed "Urinetown" (2013) and "Sweeney Todd" (2011) at BCT.

The astute theater student has probably noticed a theme to Borer's trio of main stage credit. "Sweeney Todd"  like "Into the Woods" a Stephen Sondheim concoction  and "Urinetown" both come from pretty dark places. "Into the Woods," a mashup of fairy-tale plots that careens wildly into existentialism in its second act, is no different: The show's opening 90 minutes throws a hapless baker and his wife into a convoluted sequence of events with Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (of Beanstalk-climbing fame) and their respective homies, and somehow manages to tie a neat happy-ending bow on the whole thing.

But that second act  it's a head-spinner. That's when you find out that the happy ending isn't necessarily the end. Sondheim and librettist James Lapine plunge the characters into some deep and churning waters, asking questions about who we are, why we're here, who's deserving of what, and why.

Given his track record for dark, thought-provoking material, it's not surprising to find out that actually is Borer's favorite part.

"I love how the consequences of (the characters') actions all come together," he said of what happens after intermission, "the poetic nature of the way things turn out. To see these characters grapple with life, to think they can get away with something on the surface and then later find out that's not really true. It's brilliant."

Borer said he first saw "Into the Woods" when CSTOCK mounted it back in 1999, and was smitten by it. The director of that show, Greg Williams, is his set designer for the current production. "I had a lot of friends in it, that's probably why I went, but then I loved the show. I've loved it ever since."

Borer said casting the ensemble piece (there are 16 in the cast, several double-cast in supporting roles) was "one of the most difficult things I've done in theater.

"It was probably the largest (audition) turnout I've had for a show," he said. "You ask yourself, 'How do I pick from all of this?' A lot of people wanted to be a part of it. It's the kind of problem directors like to have, though, I guess. You end up with a marvelous cast to work with."

That cast is an eclectic mix of veterans from BCT and several other companies. Musical director Reece Sauve (who played the lead role in Borer's "Company," but will be in the pit with the orchestra this time out) has some outstanding voices at his disposal, including Amy Musselwhite (Cinderella), Alicia Rodenko (the Witch) and Kelli McAuley (several roles). Corey Suraci, a standout in the title role in CSTOCK's recent "Shrek," plays the Mysterious Man, while Cailin Mackenzie and Kelly Skiff play the Baker and his wife.

"It's a wonderful show for an ensemble cast," Borer said. "Even some of the smaller parts are really important, and have a lot to do. For me, it's been a real pleasure, just watching all these guys act."

"Into the Woods" was produced last year by Paradise Theatre in Gig Harbor. That was after a four-year drought in the area, after both Western Washington Center for the Arts in Port Orchard and the Mountaineers Players (at the Kitsap Forest Theater) had a go at it in 2011. Ovation! Musical Theatre Bainbridge had their way with it in 2008.

The release of Disney's film version in 2014, with an all-star cast headed by Meryl Streep as the Witch, helped restore some momentum to the stage rendering of "Into the Woods," Borer said.

"The film made it more common knowledge again, made more people aware of it," he said. "There's more buzz again."

PREVIEW

'INTO THE WOODS'

Who: Bremerton Community Theatre

What: Musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine

Where: BCT's Montgomery Auditorium, 599 Lebo Blvd., Bremerton

When: April 1-May 1; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays

Tickets: $18-$10

Information: 360-373-5152, bremertoncommunitytheatre.org
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By Josh Farley of the Kitsap Sun

KITSAP LAKE  There's a 45-year-old sewer line snaking its way through a neighborhood north of Kitsap Lake, but Bremerton officials aren't likely to connect homes to it anytime soon.

The line is the only one in Bremerton's sewer system that extends beyond both its city borders and urban growth areas, or places destined to one day become part of the city. As such, the city can maintain it but not make any new connections to it  even if the line runs right past a home's doorstep.

City officials argue that Kitsap County, which could create an urban growth area around the neighborhood, should do that so the sewer line could be developed and because state law says sewers should be in cities.

"It's an urban service," said Allison Satter, a city planner who sent a letter to county officials advocating the change in February. "And the Growth Management Act wants urban services to be in cities."

But Kitsap County planners disagree, saying their hands are tied due to the very same state laws under the Growth Management Act. From their perspective, there's not going to be enough growth in coming years within Bremerton's UGAs to warrant making them larger.

"UGA boundaries should only be expanded when there is not enough capacity to accommodate projected population growth within the existing boundary," said David Greetham, a county planner. "In this case, there is capacity to handle the projected growth within the current boundary, which includes the city of Bremerton."

The sewer line in question comes off a main on Chico Way at Northlake Way, heading into neighborhoods that include Woodland Drive, Lakeview Drive, Ridgeway Drive, Holiday Place and Country Lane. It was installed in the late 1960s by way of a local improvement district that included money from the state, city and local residents.

Not all homes in the area are connected to the sewer, however. City officials recently learned of one particular failing septic system in the neighborhood, Ned Lever, Bremerton's managing engineer for utilities, said at a recent City Council Public Works Committee meeting. But with the area falling outside a UGA, a septic system is the only option. If the land is undeveloped and not large enough to accommodate a septic system, the property is unusable.

"Why would you exclude an area that's already sewered, and already has an urban density?" he said.

Bremerton has extra motivation in adding customers to sewers, too. Not only does a connection come with a $4,500 fee, it adds a new customer to the entire network.

"Sewer lines are investments," Lever said. "We can't recoup our investment if we can't connect people to the sewer."

There is one exception to connecting sewers to properties outside city limits and those in urban growth areas: a health concern. That stipulation requires investigation and approval from the Kitsap County Health District.

In this case, the city has asked the county to "reanalyze" the area "as this request demonstrates good planning practices," Satter said in the letter to the county.

"The city is willing to work with the County on appropriate logical boundaries," Satter wrote in her letter to county planners in February. "If need be."

Both Bremerton and Kitsap County are in the home stretch of completing 2016 comprehensive plans, which are the road maps for growth in the coming years  hence the city's desire to make the change now.

The county, looking at the situation through its mandates hitting population targets and not about a sewer, does not appear interested in reanalyzing the situation.

"If and when that (population) capacity is no longer available, the County would look to existing sewered areas  as a likely area of UGA expansion," Greetham said in an email, noting that the area north of Kitsap Lake would be one of them.
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Sharon Howard, Port Orchard

Have we forgotten a school's importance?

I read with dismay several letters from fellow senior citizens, citing reasons they will vote against the South Kitsap school bond. They often include worries about increased traffic, the few extra dollars in property tax, or feeling it isn't our responsibility.

And I wonder  how have we lost sight of the goal? Have we forgotten so quickly?

I grew up in a small town in Indiana, and we had a terrific school system. Why? Because our parents, and the generation before them, believed that education was vital for children and they were willing to do whatever it took to make it happen. These people lived through real devastation and deprivation, but were proud of the schools and supported them wholeheartedly.

The education our generation received prepared us to succeed in our careers and our retirement. Now it is time for us to return the favor to the new generation.

South Kitsap needs a new high school. It has for several years. A lot of smart and good-hearted people have worked on the bond proposal. It's a good one and deserves our support. It stresses opportunities in STEM  science, technology, engineering and mathematics  and the facilities to encourage learning in those areas. It will provide our kids and teachers with tools they need for productive career paths, which is great for them and the whole community.

When ballots arrive in the mail let's remember, and honor, the good folks who gave all of us a hand up. Please vote "yes" on the South Kitsap school bond.
Stuff reports:

Two brothers fighting for Vogel House to be returned to their family say preserving their heritage should trump government red tape. Its very important with this cultural heritage that we are not alienated from it because [the government] wants to follow some blind policy, Geoff Vogel said. Geoff and his brother Tim are fighting for the multimillion-dollar Lower Hutt home, built in 1933 for their grandparents, James and Jocelyn Vogel as a wedding present.  In 1965, Jocelyn gifted the stately home to the Government, which has decided to dispose of the property, citing high maintenance costs.

With respect, it is not their house. It was gifted by their grandmother to the Crown. She could have stated that it was to be returned to the family, if ever not needed. She didnt.

The Government has decided to offload the home to two charities that are beneficiaries of Jocelyns will  Wellington SPCA and the Vogel Charitable Trust, which gives grants to the needy in Lower Hutt.

I believe in respecting the terms of the will.

Geoff added: The government has had 50 years free use of it and need to man up and give us our house back.

It is called a gift, made by their grandmother. Thats not free use. That is receiving a gift.

This property is held under the Land Act 1948. Under this legislation, the Crown land commissioner decides how the property should be disposed of and, in this case, has ruled it should go to the two charities. Under the act, anyone aggrieved by the commissioners decision can apply for a rehearing, which the Vogels are in the process of doing. If the commissioner ultimately rules in their favour, the Vogels intend to live in the house with their families, if they decide they can afford its maintenance costs.

That reads to me that they could very well sell it.

They have every right to test their case in court. But they are also trying to test their case by trial of media.

He acknowledged selling was an option the brothers would have to address, if they were unable to meet ongoing costs. If its far too expensive to maintain, then the only other realistic option is to sell it.

So it is about the money. Fair enough. The property is valued at just under $4 million. Who wouldnt want $4 million for nothing.

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The Telegraph reports:

Jeremy Corbyns PMQs performance was an effing disaster and David Cameron turned the Party into a laughing stock, according to one Labour MP.

John Woodcock accidentally tweeted out a private message on Twitter, which he has since deleted, saying: F****** disaster. Worse week for Corbyn since he came in and that stupid f****** list makes us into a laughing stock.

The Prime Minister repeatedly mocked the Labour leader for a leaked list, which categorises Labour MPs by their loyalty to Corbyn.

You can include me in the core support group, he joked.

Labours London mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan and Ed Miliband have been reportedly labelled hostile towards Jeremy Corbyn.

The document, which was leaked to the Times, was reportedly complied by the Labour leaders political secretary Katy Clark and dates back to January.
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The opportunity to dine in the bulbous midsection of the Knoxville Wigsphere  um, I mean Sunsphere  and also try out a new Bruce Bogartz restaurant seemed like a combination I couldn't pass up. So The Grub Spouse and I headed downtown last week to try out Primo Ristorante Italiano and took the World's Slowest Elevator to the restaurant level of the iconic attraction.

The semicircular dining room seemed much as I had left it when I visited the former Icon restaurant in 2013. They had most of the westward-facing tables clustered together in anticipation of a big party, so The Spouse and I were shepherded around toward the south end of the room. It was a gloomy early evening, but we still had pretty clear bird's-eye views of downtown, the Henley Bridge and most of the UT campus.

The menu starts out with antipasti (first course) dishes. These range from North Atlantic mussels and Littleneck clams to the truffle fonduta cheese dip and classic minestrone soup. We decided to try the sausage-stuffed mushrooms ($9.62)  roasted cremini mushrooms filled with house-made pork sausage and topped with a roasted-tomato sauce and blend of cheeses.

Our meal actually started with some absolutely delicious homemade biscuits that were cube-shaped and virtually crustless. They were soft, warm and fluffy, like a kitten, but much tastier. (OK, simmer down there, cat lovers ...) Next up were the three plump stuffed 'shrooms, which pleased the palate with their savory sausage and homemade tomato-based sauce.

The Primi and Secondi sections of the menu offered flexible options for sampling Chef Bogartz's Italian-inspired cuisine. The Primi dishes are available in small and large portions, so you can order a small plate of one dish and a large of another or multiple small plates or a small plate of one dish plus a Secondi entree. Those who order a large Primi portion also get a half serving of one of Primo's three salad selections.

I had difficulty choosing between the cannelloni and the bucatini on the Primi menu, so I ordered small portions of both, $12.62 and $12.53, respectively. Other Primi selections include pappardelle, potato and sweet potato gnocchi and the risotto dish of the day.

The Spouse chose the Eggplant Pisa ($18.63) from the Secondi section, passing on dishes like Chicken Nona, Pork Chop Vesuvio, Lamb Porchetta and a couple of steaks (which top out at around $42). The Seafood Fra Diavolo, for the record, features an ever-changing assortment of steamed shellfish.

All our selections were simply fantastic. The cannelloni is made with homemade pasta and filled with shredded duck confit, caramelized onions and ricotta and slathered in a creamy marsala poultry broth. The lighter bucatini features a thick spaghetti-style noodle donned with pancetta, tomato, capers, onion, chilies and basil. The Spouse's dish was made up of four round slices of panko-crusted eggplant, each layered with mozzarella and ricotta cheeses, braised spinach and zesty marinara.

We bagged up half our portions, saving room for the Kahlua-enhanced tiramisu. We shared a dauntingly generous bowl of the Italian dessert, Primo's version of which is based largely on a rich chocolate filling that's almost reminiscent of fudge or a very thick mousse. Either way, it was rich and delish, possibly one of my favorite restaurant desserts of all time.

There's not much I can say that would ding the first impression Primo made on us. The food was fabulous (though pricier than average), the service was nearly impeccable, and who doesn't like dining in the sky? I'll just close with a brief translational recommendation: Primo is indeed a first-rate dining experience.

---

Primo Ristorante Italiano

Food: 5 stars (out of five)

Service: 4.5

Atmosphere: 4.5

Overall: 4.5

Address: 810 Clinch Ave.

Phone: 865-249-7321

Hours: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays; 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays

Full bar service

---

Bottom Line: Chef Bruce Bogartz's new Italian menu and a Sunsphere location join forces to create a high point on the Knoxville dining landscape at this new downtown eatery.
Donald Trump at the Knoxville Convention Center on Monday, Nov. 16, 2015. (SAUL YOUNG/NEWS SENTINEL)

Retired Navy Capt. Richard Snead of Clinton is a delegate for Donald Trump for president who's asked to be appointed to the Republican National Convention's rules or credentials committee because he expects several challenges will occur.

One will be over whether delegates are bona fide Republicans if elected from states that hold open primaries, like Tennessee did on March 1, he said.

Snead, who retired from the Navy in 2004 and then worked at UT-Battelle in Oak Ridge in research development, said questions about state party rules governing delegates also may come into play. He will represent the 3rd Congressional District.

Snead provided written exchanges between various Republicans over the issue of open primaries, which he said around 15 states have. Since Tennessee does not have voters register by political party, the question becomes whether Democrats are influencing the Republican outcome.

"Someone could say Tennessee has no standard," he said.

He also said the Tennessee Republican Party's requirement that successful delegates vote for their candidates on at least two ballots might not apply at the convention in Ohio, depending on what is determined by the 2016 rules committee.

Snead said he got interested in being a Trump delegate after his wife, Melissa, signed up to as a volunteer. Eventually he was contacted by Darren Morris, Trump's statewide chairman from Nashville, as to whether he wanted to be a Trump delegate, Snead said.

It took some time for the state GOP office to verify the delegates, but Snead said he heard last week that officially he had won second place to M. David Riden of Chattanooga, who came in first in the 3rd District.

Snead was interviewed during a time when Trump and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, also seeking the GOP presidential nomination, were feuding over photos and comments about their wives. He said that was "off track."

"I don't think that will help the party. They need to talk about the things that matter," Snead said.

Snead said his support for Trump comes from a feeling of patriotism and that "all things are moving away from what the Constitution intended."

CHANGE BRIEF: Micah Johnson has returned to U.S. Sen. Bob Corker's staff as communications director after working briefly as regional spokeswoman for the campaign of GOP presidential candidate Marco Rubio. She left the campaign before he quit running.

The Sevier County native oversees communications and media strategy for Corker's Senate office and the majority office of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Curtis Scott Harper waves to his family after appearing before Knox County Criminal Court Judge Scott Green on Monday, March 28, 2016. The University of Tennessee honors graduate was released on probation as part of a plea agreement Monday that will spare him any more prison time for a 2012 drunken hit-and-run crash that killed a Knoxville man, a pregnant woman and her unborn child. (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL)

By Hayes Hickman of the Knoxville News Sentinel

A University of Tennessee honors graduate was released on probation as part of a plea agreement Monday that will spare him any more prison time for a 2012 drunken hit-and-run crash that killed a Knoxville man, a pregnant woman and her unborn child.

Curtis Scott Harper, originally from Franklin, Tenn., will serve the next 10 years on probation after pleading guilty to three counts of vehicular homicide and related charges, according to prosecutors.

Harper, now 26, previously was sentenced to 30 years' incarceration after a Knox County jury found him guilty in the deaths of Nelzon A. Soto, 45, Chasity Elaine Thornell, 24 and Thornell's unborn daughter, who were struck by Harper as they stood along the side of a North Knoxville road in May 2012.

A November 2015 opinion released by the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals awarded Harper a new trial, ruling that now-retired Knox County Criminal Court Judge Mary Beth Leibowitz was wrong to allow the display of the trial's most gruesome photographs because the images were unnecessary in determining the key issues  whether Harper was speeding, drunk or both.

On Monday, Harper agreed to a cumulative 13-year sentence, minus the nearly three years he has served in state custody, with the balance to be served on probation.

"Criminal trials are stressful for the victims' families in a way most people cannot understand," Knox County Deputy District Attorney General Kyle Hixson said of the agreement. "Our main focus was to protect the public safety, but also to do that in a way that limited the trauma to the victims' families that an additional trial would create.

"This isn't something we would have done without very close consultation with the victims' families and their blessing."

Harper also will be prohibited from using drugs or alcohol and be subject to alcohol monitoring for two years, as well as random drug screens. Additionally, he must perform 500 hours of community service and maintain full-time employment or education.

Many jurors cried when prosecutors projected on a large screen photos of the unborn baby's severed head and arm during Harper's April 2013 trial. The appeals court cited those photos as well as what the court deemed "gruesome and graphic" images of Thornell's body on Washington Pike and autopsy photos of Soto, Thornell and her unborn child.

Thornell had gone to help her friend, Sarah Tinder, who had run out of gas along Washington Pike that night. Soto, a nearby homeowner, had offered to assist.

Harper, who had a prior DUI, stopped down the road after the collision to check the damage on his Ford Explorer and then drove on to his home off Washington Pike, evidence showed at trial. He graduated from UT that same month.

Tinder committed suicide in the months afterward.

Past coverage:

New trial ordered for driver in 2012 crash that killed 3 (Nov. 4, 2015)

Harper gets 30-year prison sentence in 2012 crash deaths of 3 (June 26, 2013)

Jury convicts Curtis Scott Harper in triple fatal hit-and-run (April 17, 2013)

New wrongful death lawsuit filed in Washington Pike fatal hit-and-run (Aug. 24, 2012)

Family files lawsuit in triple fatal hit-and-run (July 27, 2012)

Arraignment 'emotional' for mother of crash victim (June 19, 2012)

Man accused in fatal hit-and-run had previous DUI arrest (June 7, 2012)

Young mother, good Samaritan killed by hit-and-run driver (May 31, 2012)
Attorney Regina Lambert, and couple Sophy Jesty and Valeria Tanco, from left, celebrate the U.S. Supreme Court's upholding of same-sex marriage during a press conference at University of Tennessee's College of Law in Knoxville on Friday, June 26, 2015. The Supreme Court declared Friday that same-sex couples have a right to marry anywhere in the United States, overturning laws in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Tennessee that have not allowed same-sex couples to marry within their borders and they also have refused to recognize valid marriages from elsewhere. (ADAM LAU/NEWS SENTINEL)

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By Megan Boehnke of the Knoxville News Sentinel

The state must pay more than $2 million in legal fees to three couples who successfully challenged Tennessee's same-sex marriage ban, a federal judge in Nashville ruled Friday.

Judge Aleta Trauger awarded $1.98 million in attorneys' fees and $59,916 in expenses to the plaintiffs, which include Knoxville veterinarians Valeria Tanco and Sophy Jesty. The award, allowed under federal law, is 15 percent less than the $2.33 million the plaintiffs sought.

"The results obtained in this case were superb and far-reaching," Trauger wrote in her memo. "As the prevailing party, the plaintiffs will, therefore, be rewarded a significant portion of their requested reasonable attorney's fees and expenses under Section 1988."

The Tennessee case was one of four ruled on by the U.S. Supreme Court in June as part of a landmark opinion that struck down state bans on same-sex marriage.

A spokesman for Tennessee Attorney General Hebert H. Slatery's office said his office was still reviewing the order Monday afternoon and did not have a comment. In court documents filed in January and unsealed on March 7, Slatery's office argued the plaintiffs' attorneys were overcharging for their services, and insisted they should be paid $1.1 million instead.

Slatery pointed to the other states where attorneys requested smaller reimbursements.

In Kentucky, a judge ruled Jan. 13 the state had to pay $1.1 million in legal fees. Michigan paid $1.9 million in October, and Ohio agreed to pay $1.3 million in a settlement in November.

The fees in the Tennessee case cover nearly 6,000 hours of work by the plaintiffs' legal teams over nearly two years, according to court documents.

Those attorneys include two firms  one in Nashville and another brought on when the case reached the Supreme Court. Each couple also had personal attorneys where they live in Knoxville, Nashville and Memphis, and the National Center for Lesbian Rights contributed from San Francisco.

Regina Lambert, who represented Tanco and Jesty, worked 498 hours on the case, totaling $149,460 based on her billing rates, according to court documents.

Lambert did not return calls for comment Monday.

The case, Tanco v. Haslam, joined similar suits in Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio before the 6th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in August 2014. In November, the three-judge panel upheld the states' bans, creating the first split in opinions among the nation's appellate courts.

"The issuance of the opinion set off an intense and unprecedented period of activity and coordination by and among the plaintiffs' counsel and attorneys representing plaintiffs in Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky," Trauger wrote.

The legal teams opted to consolidate the cases and in eight days filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court, meeting a deadline to ensure the case could be heard during the 2014-15 term.

The justices agreed in January to hear the case, followed by oral arguments in late April.

The court handed down its 5-4 opinion on June 25, and attorneys in the Tennessee case filed a motion for attorney fees in October.
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By News Sentinel Staff

KNOXVILLE  A man shot in the chest during a weekend party at an East Knoxville house has refused to cooperate with investigators, police said Monday.

The victim, identified as Jyrmaine A. Moulden, 19, of Knoxville, was taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center with what were described as nonlife-threatening injuries, according to a Knoxville Police Department news release.

Moulden was shot shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday during a house party at 2017 Dandridge Ave.

At least 15 people were at the house, none of whom could provide any account of what happened, police said.

Multiple shell casings were recovered at the scene.

No arrest has been made.

More details as they develop online and in Tuesday's News Sentinel.
Hardin Valley Academy (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL)

By News Sentinel Staff

A 16-year-old girl is facing charges after making a bomb threat at Hardin Valley Academy last week.

Law enforcement authorities revealed Monday that a threat at the school and recent threats at Farragut High School were all bomb threats that, in most cases, were written on bathroom walls.

The female Hardin Valley student is charged with making a bomb threat and vandalism, according to the Knox County Sheriff's Office.

School officials announced late Wednesday that Hardin Valley would be closed Thursday because of "a threat that has been communicated." Knox County Schools spokeswoman Melissa Tindell said then that law enforcement were investigating, and the threat was "specific" to the school.

Authorities said Monday that a bomb threat was written on the wall in a girls' bathroom.

Schools Superintendent Jim McIntyre said in a statement Monday he was grateful to the Sheriff's Office, the schools security department and Hardin Valley Academy administration and staff for working together to address the threat. The superintendent added that it's because of the relationship between the schools and Sheriff's Office that students felt safe sharing information that helped identify the student now facing charges.

Board of Education member Terry Hill, who represents district six which includes Hardin Valley, agreed that the school and law enforcement addressed the situation well with the same goal of keeping students safe.

The Sheriff's Office also said Monday that recent threats at Farragut High School were bomb threats.

Before school officials announced the closing of Hardin Valley late Wednesday, students at Farragut were on lockdown for more than an hour while police investigated the third threat against the school within a month. Tindell said the lockdown was because of "another potential threat written on a bathroom wall in the school,"

On March 11, Farragut students were dismissed early after a threat was written on a wall. And on Feb. 25, Farragut students were directed through metal detectors and subject to random weapons searches after a threat written in a bathroom.

Board of Education member Karen Carson, who represents district five which includes Farragut High School, has organized a community meeting to discuss the recent threats at the school from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday in the Farragut High School library.

Tindell said Monday there have already been meetings to discuss reporting suspicious behavior and to review protocols with Farragut High School students and faculty.

"Safety in our schools continues to be a top priority and we are working with our law enforcement partners and school communities to put an end to the recent spate of threats made at our high schools," McIntyre said in his statement.

Law enforcement are continuing to investigate the threats at Farragut and questioning several suspects. Students and staff with information are asked to notify authorities.
Tristin Dayon

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By Bob Fowler of the Knoxville News Sentinel

CLINTON  She'd gone to a laundromat to clean her clothes for a job interview and ended up being with the wrong guy at the wrong time in the wrong place.

That's what prosecutors said about a woman who watched her boyfriend fatally stab an Oliver Springs man in a drug deal gone wrong.

Originally charged with first-degree murder and aggravated robbery, Tristin Jane Dayon, 35, of Maine, on Monday pleaded guilty to being an accessory after the fact to those crimes.

She was charged in connection with the May 5, 2011, stabbing death of Paul E. Cuthbertson, 55, of Oliver Springs. The killer, Dayon's boyfriend Scott Benjamin Pike, 33, pleaded guilty in late January to second-degree murder and aggravated robbery and received a 20-year sentence.

Dayon, Pike and Oliver Springs resident Ronny Hamrick had gone to Granny's Laundry in Oliver Springs for Dayon to clean some clothes when they encountered Cuthbertson and a drug transaction was arranged, according to an arrest warrant. They then followed Cuthbertson to his home, and Pike went inside with him.

When they came out, Dayon and Hamrick saw and heard Pike twice tell Cuthbertson "give me the pills or I'm going to stick you," prosecutor Emily Faye Abbott told Anderson County Criminal Court Judge Don Elledge.

Pike then stabbed Cuthbertson six times in the chest after a struggle, according to warrants.

Dayon knew about the drug deal but didn't know Pike intended to stab Cuthbertson, Abbott said. The accessory charges arose when Dayon was with Pike when he drove off "in an effort to flee this jurisdiction," Abbott said.

Dayon, who was addicted to drugs at the time, fully cooperated with authorities and was prepared to testify against Pike, the judge was told. She received a pair of concurrent, two-year prison sentences, but was placed on supervised probation. Hamrick hasn't had his day in court.
SHARE Butch Jones Drae Bowles

Board of trustees to meet in Martin

The University of Tennessee board of trustees will meet Thursday and Friday at the university's Martin campus.

The full board meeting is 1:30 p.m. Friday and will be webcast at www.tennessee.edu. Board committees will meet Thursday and Friday before the full meeting.

Before the committee meetings on Thursday, the board will have a closed information session about the federal Title IX lawsuit against the university. No action will be taken during the session.

The board's agenda includes a performance review and related compensation for UT Institute of Agriculture Chancellor Larry Arrington, revised campus master plans for the Knoxville and Agriculture campuses and the Vol Vision 2020 Strategic Plan. A full agenda and materials will be posted at www.bot.tennessee.edu.

Nuclear expert to visit Baker Center

Sameh Aboul-Enein, deputy assistant foreign minister of Egypt for disarmament and peaceful uses of nuclear energy, will speak at 5:30 p.m. March 28 at the UT Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy.

His lecture on global security will discuss emerging regional challenges in the Middle East.

Aboul-Enein is also an assistant professor at the American University in Cairo.

Lenoir City, UT pair for initiative

Lenoir City and UT will pair for the 2016-17 Smart Communities Initiative program.

The program pairs UT students and faculty with cities, counties, districts and government organizations in the state for real-world problem solving.

The upcoming school year is the third year of the program.

In 2016-17, UT will continue work with the Southeast Development District, its partner from the current academic year, as well as take on projects with Lenoir City to enhance the downtown central business district.

Business school to honor scholars

The Haslam College of Business at UT is creating a Supply Chain Management Scholars of Distinction program.

The program is a response to a employers' need to connect with new hires by providing students in the program with career guidance, peer mentors and networking opportunities as early as their freshman year.

The student scholars will be selected based on academic performance and so far 37 undergraduates have been selected.
SHARE Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Skip Wells. Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, one of four Marines murdered in Chattanooga. (FACEBOOK) Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan of Springfield, Mass., is one of four Marines killed by Mohammad Youssef Abdulazeez in Chattanooga. (TWITTER) Sgt. Carson A. Holmquist, one of four Marines murdered in Chattanooga. (USMC)

By Michael Collins of the Knoxville News Sentinel

WASHINGTON  It took just five months for the Navy to award the Purple Heart to the five servicemen slain in a terrorist attack in Chattanooga last summer.

Getting a Navy ship named in their honor is a bit more complicated and could take a lot longer, possibly years.

Congress members from Tennessee and Georgia formally asked Navy Secretary Ray Mabus last week to name an "appropriate naval vessel" the USS Chattanooga in honor of the five shooting victims.

"In the wake of this tragedy, we believe it is appropriate for the U.S. Navy to honor the legacy of those who lost their lives," the lawmakers wrote in a letter sent to Mabus on March 18.

Both of Tennessee's U.S. senators  Republicans Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker, a former Chattanooga mayor  signed the letter. So did U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann, an Ooltewah Republican whose congressional district includes Chattanooga, and U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, a Georgia Republican whose district is just across the state line.

"This would not be the first vessel to bear the name of our great city," Fleischmann said. "There is no doubt, however, that following last year's tragic attack on Department of Navy personnel, the name will transcend current naming conventions by becoming a symbol of bravery and sacrifice."

Navy officials said late last week they had not seen the letter from the lawmakers, but that the request would be added to the list Mabus reviews each time he has a ship to name.

"We get a great many requests, and there are only a certain number of ships that are named after cities," said Capt. Patrick McNally, a Navy spokesman.

Mabus "is always grateful that communities advocate for their city to have a ship named in honor," McNally said. "The Navy enjoys great support from namesake cities and states, and it helps connect the Navy to the American public."

The naming of a ship rests with the Navy secretary  in this case, Mabus. But secretaries also can solicit ideas and recommendations from others, such as the chief of naval operations or the commandant of the Marine Corps.

It's not uncommon for Congress members to suggest ship names or for communities to ask that a vessel be named in their honor. In fact, the Chattanooga City Council and the Tennessee General Assembly have both passed separate resolutions supporting the naming of the next eligible ship the USS Chattanooga.

The request followed last summer's attacks, when a gunman  Muhammad Youssef Abdulazeez  opened fire on a military recruiting station and a Navy and Marine Corps operational support center in the East Tennessee city.

Killed were Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, Staff Sgt. David Wyatt, Sgt. Carson Holmquist, Lance Cpl. Squire "Skip" Wells and Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Randall Smith.

Rules for giving certain types of names to certain types of ships have evolved over time, according to a report the Congressional Research Service prepared for Congress in 2012 and updated last January.

Attack submarines, for example, were once named for fish, later for cities, and most recently for states, the report said.

Littoral combat ships  a class of relatively small surface vessels intended for operations close to shore  were at first named for mid-tier cities, small towns and other communities. The rules have since been adjusted to allow the vessels to bear the names of regionally important U.S. cities and communities.

Chattanooga would fit into that category. But, as the congressional report noted, there have been numerous exceptions to the ship-naming rules dating all the way back to the earliest days of the republic. So it's possible a different kind of ship could be designated the USS Chattanooga.

The Navy has a number of ships coming online in the next few years that will be needing a name. While there is no time set for assigning a name, the process is customarily done before a ship's christening, the congressional report said.

Regardless of the timing, the lawmakers who wrote to Mabus consider naming a ship the USS Chattanooga appropriate.

"The men we lost in the deadly terror attack in Chattanooga exemplify the very best that America has to offer, and we should find appropriate ways to honor their legacy," Corker 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.
The head of Asiana Airlines Inc., South Korea's second-ranked flag carrier, apologized to investors on Monday for the company's lackluster business performance last year, saying that he will do his best to improve its bottom line.



Asiana Airlines reported 151.9 billion won ($129.8 million) in net loss last year, with its debt ratio spiking to 991.5 percent.



The airline is currently pushing for restructuring including consolidation of overlapping businesses, early retirement schemes and other business normalization efforts.



"I feel sorry for failing to create profit last year and I assure you, we will tide over cumulative losses once and for all this year and do our best to fulfill our corporate responsibly and role in increasing the benefit and convenience of stakeholders," Asiana Airlines CEO Kim Soo-cheon told investors.



Facing criticism for a lackluster business performance, Kim said that a planned launch of a budget airline service in the second half will help improve the company's overall profitability much, adding that he will try to create a new growth engine through the airline maintenance and repair business.



Meanwhile, during the shareholder meeting, an official representing Kumho Petrochemical, called last year's business performance of Asiana Airlines "disappointing," urging a "fundamental" overhaul including the sale of its non-core assets.



The representative for Kumho Petrochemical, Asiana's second-largest shareholder, also criticized the airline company for resorting to such stop-gap measures as increasing its borrowings. (Yonhap)




By Choi Sung-jin



Good news is hard to find for Korea's younger generation these days.



A recent report said the household income of people in their 20s and 30s fell last year, for the first time since the government collected related statistics. Another gloomy tally showed the unemployment rate of people aged 15-29 soared to 12.9 percent in February, also the highest since officials began to gather such figures.



Government statisticians divide household income into four types by their sources -- labor, business, property and transfer income. According to Statistics Korea's household surveys between 2003 and 2015, labor, or earned, income grew 4.8 percent but transfer income rose 8 percent.



This means income transferred from other people, such as parents and children, called private transfer income, and income transferred from the government, such as basic and national pensions, called public transfer income, increased its share of household income while that of earned income shrank. Of course, earned income still makes up the biggest share with 70 percent, but it is expected to fall rapidly, experts say.



Hit hardest by this trend are young people, who rely on wages more than any other age groups. Last year, the share of earned income of families whose breadwinners are younger than 39 stood at 78.6 percent of the total, nearly 10 percentage points higher than the average 69.1 percent.



The share of earned income falls as the heads of household age, to 72 percent in the 40s, 71.4 percent in the 50s, and 46.8 percent in the 60s or older.



The earned income of the 20-30 generation fell for two reasons -- the dearth of jobs and scarcity of decent jobs. Last year, youth unemployment hit 9.2 percent, the highest since 2000. More noteworthy was the widening gap between the young jobless rate and overall employment rate, from the high-3 percentage point range in the 2000-2002 period, to the mid-4 percentage point range during the following decade, and to the mid-5 percentage point range in the last two years.



Landing jobs is difficult but getting decent - or regular - jobs is harder still. Between 2003 and 2015, the share of non-regular workers, such as part-timers and contract workers, increased only among workers in their 20s and 30s.



Among 100 workers in their 20s who got jobs in 2006, 33 were non-regular workers but the comparable number increased to 35 in 2015. On the other hand, the corresponding numbers for workers in their 30s, 40s and 50s dropped by 8.5, 8 and 7.3 persons, respectively.



The grim situation for young people is due in part to the government-initiated move in 2009 to slash starting salaries. In the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis, the government called for reducing salaries for entry-level workers to encourage companies to hire more staff, which spread to state enterprises, financial companies and even to the 30 biggest family-run conglomerates. As a result, people who joined the job market in 2009 and later received 20-30 percent less pays than those who did so before 2009 while doing the same work.



Technological progress that replaces humans with machines is a threat to workers of all ages, but it is more menacing for young workers. When managers want to trim their workforce, they target employees with the shortest careers, most of whom are outside the union's protective walls, or stop hiring altogethe.



Advanced countries that experienced technological innovation ahead of Korea have experienced this phenomenon. According to the unemployment statistics of OECD countries between 1971 and 2014, there was hardly any difference between the youth unemployment rate and the overall jobless rate in the 1970s - just 0.007 percentage point - but this widened to 1.14 percentage point in the 1980s, 1.52 percentage point in the 1990s and 1.71 percentage point in the 2000s.



The Korean government's efforts to prevent the contraction of earned income of younger generations are focusing on creating more jobs. The Park Geun-hye administration's answer is the "peak wage" system, which cuts salaries of aged workers to make more money available to hire young workers. Civic groups are calling for the businesses to draw on their cash reserves to invest and hire more.



These efforts, while necessary, cannot solve the unemployment and the falling income of younger generations, given these problems have been progressing for about a decade in Korea, and for decades in advanced countries, especially in these times of machines replacing humans in job markets, experts say.



One of the fundamental solutions is "youth allowance," they said. Its advocates call for increasing young people' income in part through transfers rather than forcing them to struggle to expand their earned income.



Anthony B. Atkinson, professor of London School of Economics and a renowned authority in equality issue, explains youth allowance from the aspects of "initial capital" and "social inheritance," in his book "Inequality." Youth allowance can serve as seed money that makes up for shaky earned income caused by joblessness and job insecurity, and such allowances should come not through private transfers but through public transfers. Professor Atkinson suggests about 10,000 British pounds, or 16 million Korean won, as the optimal size of such allowance.



In this country, Mayor Park Won-soon of Seoul Metropolitan Government and Mayor Lee Jae-myung of Seongnam City are making similar moves, albeit in much smaller scale, but came under harsh criticism from conservatives, including the incumbent government, as "irresponsible populist acts."




Namhi Kim Wagner

By Kwon Mee-yoo

Namhi Kim Wagner, 92, is holding a pottery exhibition at Gallery 224 of the Ceramics Program, Office for the Arts at Harvard in Allston, Mass.

The retrospective exhibition features a wide range of pottery from Kim Wagner's career spanning from a Korean language instructor to a master potter.

Nancy Selvage, former director of the Ceramics Program, Office for the Arts at Harvard, said, "For the past 40 years Namhi Kim Wagner has enhanced the rich history of Korean ceramics with her passion, creative energy, and innovative explorations."

The gallery displays "delicate plates with vibrant stamped patterns, swelling jars encircled with floral carving and large bowls overflowing with big happy fish and lotuses" celebrating Kim Wagner's career.

"Dynamic tension and harmonic unity characterize the relationships between her refined forms and masterful surface decorations," Selvage said of Kim Wagner's works.

Born in Korea in 1923, Kim Wagner grew up in Japan, graduating from Ochanomizu University in Tokyo, Japan and returning to Korea in 1952. She married Choi Byung-woo, former managing editor of The Korea Times, who died in the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958 while covering the armed conflict as a war correspondent.





Ceramic works by Namhi Kim Wagner on display at Gallery 224 at Harvard in Allston, Mass.

/ Courtesy of the artist



After teaching the Korean language on the radio for a short time, Kim Wagner moved to the United States in 1961 and tied the knot with Edward Willett Wagner (1924-2001), a professor of Korean studies at Harvard University and founder of the academic discipline in the U.S. Starting in 1964, Kim Wagner worked as an instructor at Harvard's Korean Language Program and was later promoted to program director before retiring from the post in 1995.

Meanwhile, Kim Wagner showed interest in ceramics as well, began her studies at MIT Pottery Studio in Cambridge in 1971. She was an artist-in-residence at the Harvard Ceramics Program from 1997 to 2004 and her works were selected in 2009 for a collection at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

Her works are inspired by traditional Korean Buncheong ware, a type of slipware using iron pigment to paint decorative designs.

"Making pottery enabled me to pay homage to my heritage and to distill the aesthetic values I have absorbed along the path my life has taken," Kim Wagner said in an artist's statement. "I discovered my own voice as well as my roots by exploring the expressive possibilities of the Korean Buncheong tradition in my pots."

Kim Wagner described Buncheong as the kind of ceramics that "could not be more Korean, down-to-earth, unpretentious, and exuberant."

"I desperately wanted to create something that was my own out of the traditional forms and white slip decorating techniques. I wanted to express respect, admiration and love for the ancient potters by approaching my work with their same free spirit," Kim Wagner said.

"In the process of experimentation, practice, and studying Korean ceramics history, I was so happy to find myself  where I came from and where I was heading. Each stamp and each incision I make on my pots feels like a step closer to these roots and my destiny."

The exhibit runs until May 21. For more information, visit ofa.fas.harvard.edu/gallery-224.
Kim Ye-rin, Lee Min-ji and Kim Jeong-jin / Courtesy of Military Manpower Administration





/Courtesy of Military Manpower Administration





/Courtesy of Military Manpower Administration



By Lee Han-soo

Three winners of the 2015 Miss Korea pageant were named promotional ambassadors for the Military Manpower Administration (MMA), the country's conscription agency said Monday.

They are first-place winner Lee Min-ji, 25, and runner-ups Kim Jeong-jin, 21, and Kim Ye-rin, 20. They will participate in various events to promote the importance of military duty.

"Miss Korea has a duty to actively contribute to society," said Lee. "I will try my best to promote the MMA and make a society where military service will be viewed as a proud accomplishment."
A high school classroom in Seoul. Sexual misconduct by teachers is on the rise, data showed. / Yonhap



By Chung Ah-young



Sexual misconduct by teachers is on the rise, data showed, Tuesday.



According to a report by the Ministry of Education, 35 teachers in elementary, middle and high schools nationwide have been disciplined for sexual misconduct in the first half of this year, meaning sexual harassment or molestation by a teacher takes place every five days.



The data comes at the same time a high school in Seoul is investigating four male teachers in their 50s who allegedly sexually molested and harassed more than 130 students and female teachers over a period of two years.



"The number of teachers with disciplinary records stood at 42 in 2011, 60 in 2012, 54 in 2013 and 40 in 2014," a ministry official said. "The figure surged in particular in the first six months of this year."



However, experts and civic groups say actual sexual misconduct cases at schools is much higher than the data shows because most abuse is not reported. Even when it is, offenders often end up with no heavy penalties.



Experts point out that it is hard for victims to challenge the school hierarchy because administrators, senior teachers and principals are, in many cases, men who have the authority to evaluate the victims.



In the latest sexual misconduct case at the Seoul high school, the victims were not only female students but also new and part-time female teachers.













The victimized teachers reported the misconduct to the school's principal in February but he did not take any action and allegedly tried to cover up the incidents.



The teachers being accused of sexual harassment and molestation are in managing positions such as the chief school affairs director.



The Parents Association for True Education pointed out that sexual misconduct is prevalent because of the hierarchical structure at schools.



"This incident reveals that schools remain patriarchal, undemocratic and unequal among school members," it said.



"Education authorities should protect students and female teachers from perpetrators that abuse their powers," it added.



The group said that not only students but also teachers should receive greater education about human rights.



The educational authorities have been under fire for failing to supervise adequately or take adequate measures concerning sexual abuse cases.



According to data, among the 240 teachers who perpetrated sexual assaults between 2009 and June of 2014, only 104, or 43.3 percent, were slapped with heavy penalties such as dismissal.



"Although they committed sexual misconduct, they retained their jobs at schools because most officials at educational authorities tend to tolerate other educators," the group said.



The ministry strengthened rules on disciplinary action against teachers and school employees who commit sexual offenses in April. It also made teachers at elementary, middle and high schools nationwide take lectures about sexual misconduct.
By Kim Da-hee

A group of former "comfort women" has filed a petition with the Constitutional Court, arguing that an agreement between Korea and Japan in December infringed on their basic rights, thus unconstitutional.

The Minbyun-Lawyers for a Democratic Society represents the 41-member plaintiff, including 29 former comfort women and family members of eight deceased victims.

"The Korean government neglected its constitutional duty by making it hard for the victims of wartime sexual slavery to demand compensation from Japan through the Seoul-Tokyo accord," the organization said in a statement. "This tramples on the victims' property rights, dignity and value as humans and rights to receive diplomatic protection from the government."

It said the accord possibly violated the constitution because the agreement violated the victims' procedural right of participation and right to know during the process of negotiating the accord.
Ruling Saenuri Party Chairman Rep. Kim Moo-sung, center, raises his hands with senior members who will co-chair the party's election planning committee for the April 13 general election at the National Assembly in Seoul, Monday. From left are Reps. Rhee In-je, Suh Chung-won, Kim, former Finance Minister Kang Bong-kyun and floor leader Rep. Won Yoo-chul. / Yonhap



By Kim Hyo-jin



Lawmakers of the ruling Saenuri Party were split Monday over whether to allow former members running as independent candidates in the April 13 general election to rejoin the party after the ballot, indicating that further factional conflicts are likely.



While loyalists to President Park Geun-hye oppose the idea, saying it undermines the party's nomination of candidates, lawmakers who do not support Park claimed that it should be allowed in the interest of the party.



The controversy has escalated because the former party members, now running as independent candidates after being excluded from the nominations, are expected to win in the upcoming ballot.



Reps. Yoo Seong-min and Lee Jae-oh are highly likely to be elected after the ruling party gave up fielding candidates in their constituencies. Reps. Joo Ho-young and Yoon Sang-hyun are expected to walk the same road with Yoo and Lee because they are running against less competitive rivals, according to polls.



Rep. Won Yoo-chul, the party's floor leader and a Park loyalist, made strong objections to the possibility, stressing that it is unfair for candidates who went through the nomination process.



"It'd be against fairness for those running under the Saenuri's name," Won said. "Those who make it an issue are those who are ignorant of party politics."



The remark came a day after Rep. Kim Moo-sung, a de-facto leader of the opponents to Park loyalists, indicated that the party could possibly open the discussion after the election.



Rep. Kim Jung-hoon, the party's chief policymaker and another Park loyalist, backed up Won, saying the party rules do not allow quitters to return to the party.

However, those outside the mainstream of the party raised their voices in support of the independent lawmakers' returning to the fold.



"If they win in the election, there's no reason for the party to consider accepting them again," Rep. Kweon Seong-dong said.



Their return may hinge on the result of the upcoming election, observers said.

"I think we need to see how the leadership will be formed after the national convention this summer," Park Jong-hee, a member of the nominations committee, said in a radio interview.



A clause in the Saenuri Party's regulation states that the Supreme Council can approve whether those who quit the party can regain party membership.
Policies please: Members of a young people's civic group hand out "red cards" calling on political parties to come up with policies to resolve matters young people face, including unemployment, ahead of the April 13 general election, during a news conference at Gwanghwamun Plaza in central Seoul, Monday. / Yonhap



By Jun Ji-hye

The main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea (MPK) asked the minor opposition People's Party and Justice Party, Monday, to form an alliance to put up single opposition candidate in constituencies in and around Seoul.

Without the alliance, the MPK believes it would suffer a major setback in the capital area where multiple opposition candidates confront one conservative runner.

The issue of an alliance is considered by observers as a decisive element  even more important than campaign pledges  that will determine the result of the elections.

"The formation of an opposition alliance is necessary to make a mark in the election," former MPK Chairman Rep. Moon Jae-in said. "Multiple opposition candidates standing in one constituency are making it difficult to win the general election. We should compete one-on-one with the ruling Saenuri Party to prevent it from becoming a majority party."

According to the National Election Commission (NEC), competition between more than two liberal candidates and one conservative is currently taking place in 105 electoral districts out of 122 in Seoul, Incheon and Gyeonggi Province.

This indicates that the ruling Saenuri Party has a greater chance of overwhelmingly winning in the capital area due to split votes among liberal supporters.

However, the People's Party is refusing to consider an alliance.

Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo, a co-founder of the New Politics Alliance for Democracy (NPAD), the predecessor of the MPK, has expressed this position since he founded the People's Party in February. Ahn quit the NPAD in December after a power struggle with Moon.

The People's Party even issued a warning to its own members that the party will expel anyone who agrees to form an alliance with an MPK candidate without consultation.

"The MPK has suffered a defeat in previous elections even though it formed an opposition alliance," said Prof. Jeong Yun-Jung of Pai Chai University, who served as a spokeswoman for the nomination committee of the People's Party. "But the MPK has never taken responsibility for such defeats. It just shifted the blame onto other parties."

Kim Hong-gul, the third son of late liberal President Kim Dae-jung, who joined the MPK in January, criticized Ahn for rejecting the alliance, saying, "Ahn's rejection amounts to an act benefiting the enemy."

Kim argued that Ahn seems to believe that he could run for the presidency alone if the opposition bloc collapses.

"Ahn needs to wake up before it is too late," he said.

The Justice Party seems to be more willing to form an opposition alliance with the MPK as talks between the two are ongoing to find the middle ground on who should make concessions.

But the discussions are facing difficulties due to differing opinions over a method of choosing a single candidate.

The Justice Party wants to make a decision through consultation between party leaders, but the MPK prefers primaries.

The Justice Party is apparently concerned that the odds are against the party in primaries due to its comparatively low influence.

The MPK suggested holding primaries in the Goyang-A and Suwon-D districts of Gyeonggi Province, but the Justice Party rejected it, saying, "The proposal has no sincerity."

Observers note that the deadline for forming an alliance is April 4, when the NEC starts printing voting papers.

After this, the names of candidates are left on ballot papers even if they withdraw from the race, which will cause a considerable number of dead votes.



Follow Jun Ji-hye on Twitter @TheKopJihye
China gave a muted reaction on Monday to comments by Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump that if he was elected the U.S. president, he would consider letting South Korea and Japan build their own nuclear weapons.



In an interview with The New York Times, Trump also said he would withdraw American troops from South Korea and Japan unless they significantly boost their financial contributions to the U.S. military presence.



"We have noted relevant reports," China's foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters. "And we also noted that these are only hypothetical remarks."

Hong did not elaborate further.



Trump said he would consider letting both South Korea and Japan build their own nuclear arsenal to counter threats from North Korea and the rise of China.



North Korea, which conducted its fourth nuclear test in January, has shown no signs of giving up its nuclear program, despite tougher U.N. sanctions.



The U.S. has a long-standing policy of keeping nuclear weapons off the Korean Peninsula. (Yonhap)




South Korea's Foreign Ministry on Monday strongly condemned a terrorist attack in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore that left dozens of people dead and hundreds injured, vowing to step up efforts to stamp out terrorism.



"Our government cannot help but be shocked and worried by the act of terrorism, and we strongly condemn it," the ministry said in a press release.



The ministry stressed that terrorism cannot be justified under any circumstances, and that it would actively participate in international efforts to root out "uncivilized, inhumane" acts of terrorism.



The abrupt blast occurred at Lahore's Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park on Sunday evening when people were celebrating the Easter holiday. (Yonhap)




From left are Democratic presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton, and Republican candidates Donald Trump and Ted Cruz. Experts say the result of the U.S. presidential election is expected to be another variable in Seoul and Washington's ongoing talks on the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery on the Korean Peninsula due to slightly different positions between the parties on the issue. / Graphic by Cho Sang-won



By Jun Ji-hye



The U.S. presidential election slated for November is expected to affect ongoing talks between Seoul and Washington on the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery on the Korean Peninsula, according to experts.

Korean and U.S. experts say Washington apparently believes the THAAD battery deployment is necessary to expand American influence in Northeast Asia, and this belief will remain regardless of which party is elected. However, they say a Republican administration is more likely to pressure South Korea to buy the batteries and to conduct further missile defense deployments.

Experts added that the republican administration could provoke protests against THAAD deployment here, and consequently, hamper the allies' discussion on the deployment.

Seoul and Washington officially announced their decision to discuss the THAAD deployment on Feb. 7, when the North launched a long-range rocket, in violation of the existing United Nations (U.N.) sanctions.

The allies then began their working-level talks on March 4 to iron out details of the deployment, such as the shared costs, possible locations and potential safety, health and environmental risks.

According to the Ministry of National Defense, operating one THAAD unit would cost some 1.5 trillion won ($1.2 billion).

A ministry official said if the deployment proceeds, South Korea would take charge of the site and other infrastructure, while the United States would bear the costs of the deployment and operation.

Terence Roehrig, professor at the U.S. Naval War College, said it is unlikely that the U.S. will give up the development and deployment of a ballistic missile defense system in Asia, regardless of the future administration.

"THAAD will remain a piece of that effort," he said.

Lee Il-woo, a senior researcher at the Korea Defense Network, echoed the view, saying Republicans and Democrats share the ultimate goal of promoting the national interest, and one of Washington's most significant missions is to hold a dominant position in the hegemonic competition with China.

"The deployment of the THAAD battery on the Korean Peninsula is an important condition to win such competition," Lee said. "So, the country's position that the THAAD is necessary on Korean soil would not change regardless of which party is elected."

However, Lee noted that if the Republican Party were elected, the country would be highly likely to pressure Seoul to share more of the THAAD deployment expenses, or to purchase the batteries.

Lee cited that the party's leading candidate, Donald Trump, has repeatedly said even though South Korea is a wealthy country, it continues to rely on the United States for its defense without giving the latter anything in return.
Defense Minister Han Min-koo called on a counter-artillery unit to "retaliate powerfully" against any North Korean provocations during a troop visit Monday.



The trip to the multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) unit came as North Korea stepped up its artillery threats on Seoul. North Korea said last week it has conducted the final test-fire of a large-caliber MLRS that is ready for combat deployment.



The imminent deployment of the multiple 300-millimeter caliber rocket launching system reportedly places half of the South Korean territory within its range.



The defense ministry did not specify the counter-artillery unit Han visited, but the military started deploying locally built Chunmoo MLRS batteries with field troops in August last year.



With a maximum range of 80 kilometers, the artillery system is a key counter-artillery asset vis-a-vis North Korea's long-range artillery threats, including those from Pyongyang's MLRS units.



"In the event of an enemy provocation, our military should retaliate powerfully and without hesitation in order to wipe out their will to launch another provocation, and make them realize a provocation will lead to self-destruction," the defense minister said.



"The biggest mission of the military is to guard the safety and lives of the people," Han highlighted.



Earlier in the day, defense ministry spokesman Moon Sang-gyun said South Korea is building up a comprehensive counter-artillery system to guard against growing threats posed by North Korea's multiple rocket launchers.



"Against the threats from North Korea's multiple rocket launchers and long-range artillery, (the military) is building up a countermeasure system based on an anti-artillery warfare concept," he said in a press briefing.



As part of these efforts, the military is developing a new attack system that puts together some of its artillery weapons like its own Chunmoo MLRS, the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) surface-to-surface missile, and the SLAM-ER air-launched cruise missiles used by the Air Force, Moon noted.



"We are making relentless efforts to upgrade the capability (of the system)," he said.



The military is also running a surveillance system that integrates its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets with surveillance drones and the ARTHUR counter-artillery radar system, according to Moon.



North Korea has recently stepped up its military ante apparently to show off the progress it has made in upgrading its nuclear and missile capabilities as well as in advancing the striking power of its multiple rocket launchers and other long-range artillery systems, he said. (Yonhap)




Kim Yo-jong, left, inspects a facility with her elder brother and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, center, in this photo. /Korea Times files



By Lee Han-soo

Kim Yo-jong, the younger sister of North Korea leader Kim Jong-un and a key member of the ruling Workers' Party, has reportedly married a science professor with an ordinary family background, Yonhap News Agency reported Monday, citing unidentified sources.

"As far as I know, rumors of Kim Yo-jong marrying the son of party secretary Choe Ryong-hae are not true," Yonhap quoted a source as saying. "Kim has married a science college professor who was born and raised in an ordinary family."

Kim, born in September 1987, is known to be working as an undersecretary for the party. She is believed to have huge influence on political affairs, especially propaganda.
President Park Geun-hye on Monday called for military readiness and overwhelming deterrence against North Korea amid heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula.



North Korea has issued a series of harsh rhetoric against South Korea in recent weeks in protest of Seoul's ongoing military drills with Washington.



"Now, we should put an end to North Korea's reckless provocations and the threats of a war and move forward to open the era of unification on the Korean Peninsula," Park said in a rare message to South Korea's military. "To accomplish the historic task, we need a strong military that keeps military readiness and have overwhelming deterrence."



The message came two days after North Korea threatened to take "merciless" military action against South Korea unless Seoul offers an apology for its alleged move to hurt the dignity of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.



Pyongyang has accused South Korea of staging a drill of what it claims was a plan to destroy Kim's office with 16 fighter bombers carrying guided air-to-surface missiles.













South Korea has confirmed its Air Force conducted a large-scale air raid drill against a simulated key North Korean facility, though it did not give details.



The North also claims the annual military drills are a rehearsal for a nuclear war against it, a charge denied by Seoul and Washington.



South Korea has repeatedly warned North Korea against provocations, noting any action would eventually lead to the North's self-destruction.



Pyongyang is under tougher U.N. sanctions for carrying out its fourth nuclear test on Jan. 6 and a long-range rocket launch on Feb. 7.



Park is expected to call for international efforts towards North Korea's denuclearization on the eve of this week's Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, said Kim Kyou-hyun, senior presidential secretary for foreign affairs.



Park will also raise the topic of the danger of North Korea's development of its nuclear weapons program at a working dinner scheduled Thursday, a day ahead of the summit.



The biennial summit is meant to exchange opinions on the threats of nuclear terrorism and discuss ways to strengthen an international regime for nuclear safety.



The two-day gathering will be the final session of the summit, which has been held every two years since U.S. President Barack Obama hosted the inaugural summit in 2010. (Yonhap)
North Korea warned its people that it is facing some tough times and the country may have to endure another "Arduous March" of economic hardship, state-controlled media said Monday.



The article carried by the Rodong Sinmun, an organ of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), said that while the country may experience hardship, its people must not waver in their allegiance to leader Kim Jong-un. It also said that the road to revolution is long and difficult.



The paper's warning comes as the toughest sanctions ever to have been imposed by the United Nations against the North start to take a bite out of its economy.



The "Arduous March" refers to a period when North Korea suffered from severe famine and economic hardship in the mid to late 1990s, during which an estimated 3 million North Koreans are believed to have died from hunger.



The remarks mark the first time that Pyongyang brought up the phrase since the United Nations Security Council slapped new sanctions earlier this month over the North's latest nuclear test and long-range rocket launch.



Analysts said that the North's reference to its previous economic hardship indicates the growing pressure it is facing. Besides the sanctions, Pyongyang currently has to counter the largest-ever annual joint military drills between Seoul and Washington.

The newspaper then called for North Koreans to show their loyalty to Kim ahead of the ruling party's congress slated for May.



"Even if we give up our lives, we should continue to show our loyalty to our leader Kim Jong-un until the end of our lives," it said, stressing the need for North Koreans to work hard in the "70-day campaign of loyalty."



The WPK plans to hold its first congress in more than three decades in May, where the North's leader may unveil new lines of policies and conduct a major reshuffle.



Seoul's spy agency said that the party event is likely to be held on May 7.



"As the impact of sanctions will likely be felt considerably, the North seems to be calling on its people to prepare for difficult situations," said Chang Yong-seok, a researcher at the Seoul National University Institute for Peace and Unification Studies.



He also added that North Korea is trying to politically use the current situation as an occasion to beef up solidarity for its leader. (Yonhap)




By Dick Meyer

In the days of Torquemada and the Inquisition, Spaniards debated which was worse, the rack or the head crusher. Today, Americans debate between Ted Cruz and Donald Trump.

Jeb Bush has made his choice. He announced that Republicans should reject the "divisiveness and vulgarity" of Trump and embrace the divisiveness and zealotry of Cruz. It is precisely that kind of leadership and vision that made Jeb the presidential candidate he is today.

Others are still struggling. This is a hard choice that Cruz and Trump make harder every day.

On Monday afternoon, for example, Trump told editors at The Washington Post that all the other countries in NATO are "not doing anything." He added, "I would structure a much different deal with them, and it would be a much better deal." The next day, of course, terrorists murdered dozens of innocents in Belgium, where NATO is based.

Perhaps Trump could get the U.S. a good deal on office space in downtown Brussels. To entrust him with any more power than that is blood-curdling.

Monday was a big foreign policy day for Trump. He announced a national security team that he hasn't met with, a motley group that even Google can barely find. He delivered a speech at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, which was quickly denounced by the head of AIPAC. Embarrassingly, commentators on CNN praised the speech as an important step in Trump's political "maturation" because he read the speech from teleprompter like a big boy instead of winging it as he usually does.

After the bombings the next day, Trump was quick to react. He said the U.S. needs new laws so we can torture suspects faster, bigger and better. We don't win at torture anymore, apparently. And with Trump in the White House, America is going to win at torture, believe me. We're going to torture so great! And we'll get such great deals on torture stuff!

The other war-mongering isolationist in the race, Cruz, didn't try to capture any of the Trump brand's market share on torture. He went straight for segregation, internment and mass racial profiling, demanding new laws to "empower law enforcement to patrol and secure Muslim neighborhoods before they become radicalized."

Never mind that this is moronic from a practical standpoint. It's totalitarian. This self-proclaimed guardian of liberty, this constitutional prodigy, is purposefully drawing from the darkest, most shameful chapters of American history to monger some fear and grab some votes. If Cruz could have figured out a way to carpet-bomb Dearborn, Mich., and miss the Christians he'd probably have proposed it.

As Belgians held candlelight vigils that night, Trump and Cruz had moved on to more important matters, their wives.












Wipe that sad look off your face, The Independent!

It's a rebirth, not a funeral. It's a change of clothing, not being dressed for the coffin.

The Independent newspaper of Britain has published its last print edition, making itself available only on line. The Guardian, an ideological left of center newspaper, eulogized the "end" of the print version. True, sympathies go to both papers (one may doubt The Independent can be called that), considering the plight facing newspapers as we know with the advent of the Internet and the changed habits of the public.

To those who have worked in this business for a long time, it may be felt that the paper would join a long list of names of comrades killed in battle prior to it  The Christian Science Monitor, Newsweek and News of World (wrong cemetery!) among them. Behind each of these names were hundreds, thousands of journalists and supporting staff who were let go.

But it is time to wake up and stop listening to the funeral Danny Boy because newspapermen have got it wrong all along. It is an exciting time for change.

First, let's break down the newspaper, and it would be news, which is content, and paper and ink, which is the medium. Now the industry is being asked to give up the old medium and get on with the new medium  online. Cyberspace is unlimited and thereby offers many chances. Besides, the industry still gets a hold of news.












Wrong foreign policy remarks must be addressed

Since entering the U.S. presidential race, Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner, has shown a shallow knowledge of foreign policy.

His ignorance about East Asia, in particular, has been a major cause for concern to South Korea, which is always under a serious security threat from North Korea.

What Trump said concerning Korea and Japan in his interview with the New York Times late last week makes this worry all the more serious. According to the interview, the American billionaire voiced his usual ''free-riding'' argument again, saying that U.S. troops must be pulled from both South Korea and Japan if they do not pay more for defense.

Trump also said he would be open to allowing the two Asian countries to build nuclear arsenals, noting that if the U.S. ''keeps on its path, they're going to want to have that anyway.'' This strongly raises the possibility that he would tolerate Seoul and Tokyo developing nuclear weapons if he is elected president.

The two issues are very important to South Korea. But Trump appears to have commented about them without much thinking, although we do not know if he made the remarks after consulting his aides.












Sejong University Professor

Park Yu-ha

By Kim Jae-won

A professor of Japanese literature raised questions on the alleged stereotype of "comfort women," who were forced into sexual servitude by the Japanese military during World War II.

She alleged activists blocked comfort women from telling their stories, if they differed from the typical ones told by wartime sex slaves.

Park Yu-ha said that she finds nothing wrong in her 2013 book "The Comfort Women of the Empire" which nine former comfort women alleged hurt their honor last year. In January, a Seoul district court ordered Park to pay 10 million won to each of the women after they filed a lawsuit against her.

Park vowed to bring the case to the appeals court. She teaches about Japanese literature and conflicts in East Asia at Sejong University in eastern Seoul.

She clarified that she is not fighting against former comfort women, but against the Korean Council for the Women Drafted for Military Sexual Slavery by Japan, a civic organization which has worked for the issue over the last couple of decades.

"I think the council is afraid of comfort women stories different from their typical image," said Park in an interview with The Korea Times at her office earlier this month. "Various voices from comfort women have been suppressed by the council. I think it is time to let them speak for themselves."

Park said that it is hard to define comfort women from a single viewpoint because they have different backgrounds and stories. She said that to paint comfort women as young girls who were forced to offer sex to Japanese soldiers during World War II fails to reflect the wide range of their actual lives.

"In fact, many of them were poor, uneducated and marginalized by society. They were taken away by brokers and pimps who deceived them with job offers."

But, the brokers and pimps exploited the women by forcing them to become prostitutes for the military, Park said. She said that she could collect such stories from many comfort women whom she has met, including Bae Chun-hee who died last year.

The professor admitted that Japan should take responsibility for the victims because its military was the direct predator, but pointed out that they were also victimized by the patriarchal system and brokers and pimps in Korea.

Park said she was critical of an agreement about the comfort women signed by the Korean and Japanese governments in December because it failed to persuade people to try to understand the women's plight. She said it would be better if they had pushed for the project step by step.

Foreign ministers of the two countries announced that they agreed to resolve the issue by paying compensation to the comfort women from a fund with 1 billion yen provided by Japan. The agreement faced a backlash from the public who accused Japan of failing to offer a sincere apology.

But, she did not agree with people who asked the Korean government to nullify the deal, saying the two countries need to develop the agreement, and not repeat the Asian Women's Fund case. The Japanese government set up the fund in 1994 to distribute monetary compensation to comfort women, but most of victims in Korea refused to accept it, saying Japan failed to admit legal responsibility.
Jo Seong-jin, left, president of LG Electronics' home appliance and air solutions division, poses with company executives while introducing LG Signature's high-end appliances at a launch event at the company's R&D center in southern Seoul, Monday. / Courtesy of LG Electronics



By Lee Min-hyung

LG Electronics launched its premium brand LG Signature, Monday, in a move to strengthen its corporate identity amid tepid growth in the electronics industry and burgeoning rivalry from Chinese manufacturers.

LG Signature's lineup includes a collection of high-end appliances  including refrigerator, washer and television. After the local debut, the company will expand the product line in key markets this year  including the United States and Europe.

"The new brand was launched to serve as a key driver developing our brand identity, rather than focusing on increasing sales figures," said Jo Seong-jin, president of the company's home appliance and air solutions division, during the launch event.

This came at a time when the company seeks fresh momentum to differentiate its products from the cheaper options of Chinese competitors.

"We will keep on adjusting our positioning and marketing strategies to successfully penetrate into the premium devices market," he said. "LG also plans to expand product categories for the Signature, after the brand establishes itself in the market."

The company also said it plans to launch the brand in the U.S. market in June.

This comes about three months after the company unveiled the brand during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this January.

"We are expecting favorable responses especially in Korea and the U.S., seen from the favorable responses at this year's CES," said the company chief. "But it differs from product to product. For example, Signature washers are expected to gain strong support in the European market where washing machine demand runs high."

He also explained the company's business-to-business (B2B) marketing strategy in the premium appliance market.

"We are also going to launch the Signature Kitchen Suite, the B2B-version of LG Signature, in Korea no later than July," he said.

The Signature Kitchen Suite is a package of high-end consumer electronics provided only for the built-in appliance market.

"For the B2B sector, we are adopting separate branding strategies to more efficiently compete with rivals such as Whirlpool," he said. "That's why we left LG out of the B2B brand."

During the event, the company introduced specific features of each LG Signature product.

In particular, the 65-inch LG Signature OLED TV comes with a thickness of 2.57 millimeters. An OLED TV does not require a backlight, making it thinner and more energy efficient, the company said. The Signature OLED TV sells at 11 million won ($9,439) here.

The premium TV is also equipped with high-dynamic-range (HDR) technology, creating more compelling black and white images, the company said.

"Streaming service providers, including Netflix, are distributing hundreds of HDR programs each year," said LG Electronics' TV business chief Kwon Bong-seok.

The company said its Signature OLED TV will be the best option for generating perfect black colors and HDR content.
SK Telecom's network operations division leader Lee Hyung-hee, second from left, poses with Daegu Mayor Kwon Young-jin, third from left, at the Daegu Government Complex after signing a deal, Monday, to create an Internet of Things (IoT) town in the city. / Courtesy of SK Telecom



Leading carrier to invest W90 billion won for IoT ecosystem

By Lee Min-hyung

SK Telecom will create what it calls an Internet of Things (IoT) town in the nation's southeastern city of Daegu to help vitalize the sagging regional economy and nurture the creation of new startups.

This IoT initiative comes under partnership with Samsung Electronics and the city government.

The mobile carrier hopes the project will attract more than 10 trillion won ($8.57 billion) in local investments and create more than 10,000 jobs.

SK Telecom will provide telecommunications technologies and infrastructure, including big data analytics tools and cloud platforms, with Samsung offering network hardware devices, SK Telecom said in a statement. The Daegu Metropolitan Government will also offer administrative support, designating the city as a "regulation-free zone."

The IoT town project will serve as a test bed for small companies seeking next-generation revenue sources in such areas as healthcare, energy efficiency and electric vehicles (EV), according to the mobile carrier.

Toward that end, SK Telecom pledged to invest more than 90 billion won in the project this year. The budget will be allocated for creating a startup fund and building an IoT-centered business ecosystem, the company said.

The city also plans to secure some 1 trillion won from government budgets for the IoT project.

Starting with an IoT-only network test bed, the nation's largest mobile carrier will expand its technical support by building an open lab where startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can develop new services.

"The IoT town will foster economic participation by startups, helping the nation overcome its current economic slump," said Lee Hyung-hee, president of SK Telecom's network operations division.

"This will also help ventures to compete on the global stage, through a new ecosystem, encouraging them to expand into untapped areas," he said.

Samsung Electronics will supply network equipment and make public its IoT-related intellectual property, thereby helping startups to turn their ideas into reality.

The two companies agreed to accelerate their drive to build an EV infrastructure in the city, installing charging stations and telecommunications infrastructure.

This falls in line with the government's drive to be in sync with global standards in the EV industry, continuing to ease regulations and spread awareness.

Developed countries  including the United States and Japan  are boosting their drive for the EV industry, citing environmental benefits and the growing importance of energy-saving systems.

Energy efficiency will also gain the spotlight under the IoT project. In the city, the two companies plan to test energy management systems, and put the outcome to use in the city's buildings and factories.

On the medical side, SK Telecom will offer its cloud computing services to help develop big data analytics tools for efficient medical information management and infectious disease surveillance.
The SLFP does not condone the continuation of the Emergency Regulations (The Public Security Ordinance) more than a day necessary

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The early Cahuenga Pass Freeway, before the Hollywood Freeway.

Building the freeways through postwar Los Angeles was a hugely disruptive process that bludgeoned through long-standing neighborhoods, cleaved communities with a huge obstruction and forced thousands of Angelenos out of their homes. There has never been anything like it happen to the city since. Perhaps none of the first freeways were as painful to build as the Hollywood Freeway, which began life as the Cahuenga Pass Parkway, a divided expressway into the pass linking Hollywood with the San Fernando Valley. On the KCET website, Lost LA historian Nathan Masters has collected old photos of the carnage from the collections of the USC library (his employer) and the Los Angeles Public Library and retold the story of what the Hollywood Freeway wrought.

Excerpt of Hollywood Versus the Freeway.

As early as 1940, the Hollywood Anti-Parkway League denounced the Cahuenga Pass Parkway, then under construction, as un-American. Later, as planners moved to extend the parkway toward downtown, opposition became even louder. Movie stars worried about their Whitley Heights homes. Merchants fretted about a sweeping concrete viaduct over Franklin Avenue. The Hollywood Bowl Association feared noise pollution. Some critics suggested that the city build a rapid transit line instead. Most supported the general idea of a freeway but disagreed with its routing.

Ultimately, the state relented to local opposition and struck compromises with the mostly white, middle-class, and politically powerful Hollywood community. Construction claimed several historic structures, including Charlie Chaplin's and Rudolph Valentinos former homes in Whitley Heights, but the state planted extensive landscaping near the Hollywood Bowl to dampen traffic noise, and highway engineers bent the freeway around local landmarks like the First Presbyterian Church, the Hollywood Tower apartments, and KTTVs newly constructed television studio. The more ethnically diverse and working-class communities southwest of Hollywood  as in Boyle Heights and East Lost Angeles, where seven superhighways were built over local objections  were not as lucky. There, the freeway took a more direct route. It bisected Echo Park, severing the recreational lake from its adjacent playgrounds. It carved a canyon through downtown, obliterating historic Fort Moore Hill and its 1873 high school building. And where it met the Arroyo Seco Parkway rose the Four-Level Interchange, a colossal structure that displaced some 4,000 people.



Go check it out. Nathan selected a great photographic record and this map of an pre-freeway 1939 plan for parkways to take some of LA's already horrible traffic off neighborhood streets and boulevards.




Forty years before "Spotlight" reminded movie-goers what reporters actually do, "All the President's Men" was the film making college students want to work for newspapers. In a fun piece for the Los Angeles Review of Books, associate producer Jon Boorstin  who came on to the project as an assistant to director Alan Pakula  recounts how the movie got made and how the production achieved its still-memorable look and feel.

Here's an excerpt:



As the critic Pauline Kael said, Robert Redford liked to make how to pictures: how to be a political candidate, a mountain man, a downhill skier. Smart, credible low-key films, free of Hollywood bluster and pretense. Captivated by Woodward and Bernsteins Watergate articles in the Washington Post, he wanted to make how to be an investigative reporter, to bare the dogged reality, enshrine their relentless drive. Perhaps he wouldnt even act in it.

Back when thick bricks of wood pulp were dropped on our doorstep, the highest praise for a movie star was so powerful he could get the studio to make a picture from the telephone book. If ever it applied to anyone, it was Robert Redford in 1974. But when he told the studios he wanted to make All the Presidents Men, most of them said theyd rather film the phone book. It came down to Warner Bros.

Even Warner Bros. had its concerns. It pointed out that everybody knew how Watergate ended. Redford replied that the story wasnt a whodunit but was really about two mismatched guys, a Republican WASP and a radical liberal Jew, on an impossible mission. After all, hed made the ultimate buddy pictures of the decade, The Sting and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and the quintessential WASP/Jew mismatch The Way We Were. But that had Barbra Streisand, Warner Bros. said. Wheres the girl? Wheres the gun? Newspapers, typewriters, telephones, un-unh, Washington, un-unh. So the man whod made the CIA nail-biter Three Days of the Condor told them it was a procedural thriller: how two relentless cub reporters slipped the grip of the most powerful man in America to bring him down.

Still, Warner Bros. wasnt convinced.


PRESS RELEASE

China and Czech Republic Plan To Expand Central Europes Participation in New Silk Road with Xi Visit

March 27, 2016 (EIRNS)There are high expectations all around about Chinese President Xi Jinpings visit to the Czech Republic, which starts March 28. Some 20 agreements are on the table, ranging from cooperation in manufacturing, nuclear power, finance, aviation, nanotechnology and biology, to Chinese assistance in both high-speed rail and the construction of the long-planned Danube-Oder-Elbe Canal.

Proposals for that European canal project, linking the Danube, Oder and Elbe river basins to the North, Black and Baltic Seas, go back to the 17th century. The LaRouche movement identified it as a key part of its proposed Paris-Berlin-Vienna "Productive Triangle" program for global economic reconstruction after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Indias The Hindu appropriately called it today "the merger of the land and maritime hubs of One Belt, One Road." Vojtech Filip, Vice Chairman of the Czech parliament, spoke last week of China jointly funding the construction of the Canal, with both sides investing around EU1 billion in phase one.

Czech President Milos Zeman elaborated on the eve of the visit:

"In Europe, there is a very good communication from the west to the east, but there is no good communication from the north to the south. We need the water corridors, the railways, the highways from the south to the north. And I know that Chinas companies are very experienced in this area, and such a long-term investment might present one of the opportunities in the frame of the 16 plus 1,"

China Radio International (CRI) quoted him. ("16 + 1" is the forum of the 16 Central and Eastern Europe countries and China, meeting annually since 2012.)

Zeman would like to see the Czech Republic become a hub for China in the Europe generally, a financial as well as a transport hub, according to CRI. The Bank of China branch which opened last year in the Czech Republic, "might be the banking center of China for all Europe," President Zeman said.

"We have engaged in this project because they offer some participation for Czech building firms. Of course this is an excellent idea, which represents the historical experience, so I think this Silk Road might again connect Europe and China."

This is Xis first visit to any one of the 16 Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC), and the first visit by a Chinese President to the Czech Republic since diplomatic relations were established (with Czechoslovakia) 67 years ago.
PRESS RELEASE

Kerry, Peskov Speak of U.S.-Russian Relations

March 27, 2016 (EIRNS)In the aftermath of Secretary of State John Kerrys productive discussions with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and President Vladimir Putin last week, both Kerry and President Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, have spoken of their respective thinking about the U.S.-Russia relationship.

In an interview aired today on CBSs "Face the Nation," Kerry emphatically argued for the necessity of U.S.-Russian dialogue on all matters, asserting, in particular, that it is "all to the strategic interest of the United States of America," if Russia can help, as it is helping, to end the war in Syria.

Kerry was scathing, when asked about "criticism" that Putin "has won in Syria" because hes been able to get a "foothold" in the Middle East. "Frankly, I find that ridiculous," he responded. "Russia has had a foothold there. Russia built the air defense of Syria years ago. Russia" But theyve gotten more of a foothold, CBSs John Dickerson interjected. "Well, more powerhave at it," Kerry shot back.

"I see no threat whatsoever to the fact that Russia has some additional foundation in a Syria, where we dont want a base, where we are not looking for some kind of a long-term presence. If Russia can help stabilize and provide for a peace process that actually ends this war, which is putting existential "

Interrupted again, "So theyre an ally in Syria?," Kerry said "no," and continued to develop his thought:

"which is putting existential pressure on Europe as well as existential pressure on Jordan, on Lebanon, and creating an environment that threatens Israelyou talk about threats to Israelthat turmoil is a threat to Israel. So if Russia can help usand it is, right now; Russia has helped bring about the Iran nuclear agreement. Russia helped get the chemical weapons out of Syria. Russia is now helping with the cessation of hostilities. And if Russia can help us to actually effect this political transition, that is all to the strategic interest of the United States of America."

Dickerson pressed Kerryin an exchange curiously not included in the official State Department transcripton how Americans should think about Putin, in light of what he was saying. His reply was that "there are still contradictions," citing Ukraine as a remaining major challenge. In the Moscow meetings,

"we worked on Ukraine. We talked at length about how we could have the full implementation of the the Minsk process, but clearly we still have sanctions in place, because of what Russia chose to do,"

he reported.

But at the same time, Russia has cooperated with the U.S. on Iran negotiations, and has continued to cooperate on other issues important to us, and has offered to be helpful with respect to Yemen, Libya, and other places, Kerry continued. We live in a world which is not black and white all the time; this is not the same world as the bipolar, East-West Cold War period, he said. We dont have the luxury of just sitting there, just pretending were something ideologically pure and not deal practically with issues.

For his part, Peskov was asked by Russian channel TVC on the prospects for an improvement in U.S.-Russian relations, in an interview aired on March 26 and reported by RT today. He said that the Kremlin does not have any "illusions," but "I think it is possible to say that there have been positive advances. They lie in a mutual atmosphere, because if we compare the atmosphere with what it was a year ago, then of course there is an evident desire to communicate, and there is readiness. At least now the understanding has matured that there is no alternative to dialogue in resolving issues which cannot be delayed."
Welcome to California Inc., the weekly newsletter of the L.A. Times Business Section.

Im Business columnist David Lazarus, and heres a rundown of upcoming stories this week and the highlights of last week.

Wall Street was closed Friday for Easter weekend, but traders get back to work today with a hint of good news to chew on. Last week ended with the Commerce Department reporting that even though U.S. economic growth slowed in the fourth quarter, the slowdown wasnt as sharp as previously estimated. Consumer spending remained relatively strong, which should keep fears of another recession at bay.

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LOOKING AHEAD

Virtual reality: Oculus VRs long-awaited virtual reality consumer headset will begin shipping today. The Oculus Rift costs $599 and will launch with 30 games available. Another virtual reality headset, the HTC Vive, will ship on April 5 and cost $799. A third option, Sonys PlayStation VR, started taking preorders last week for a $500 starter bundle that includes a PlayStation camera and two PlayStation Move controllers. Consumers who just want the VR headset can preorder it starting Tuesday for $400.

Rebate changes: Californias rebate program for electric vehicles will start offering increased incentives on Tuesday to low- and moderate-income residents, while at the same time cutting off higher-income buyers. Rebates  which currently range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the vehicle  will go up by $1,500 for people with incomes of no more than 300% of the federal poverty level. For a household of four, the limit would be $72,900. Meanwhile, the program will no longer give any rebate to individuals earning more than $250,000 or couples with income over $500,000.

Airwaves for sale: The Federal Communications Commission will begin an auction Tuesday to sell a huge swath of public airwaves that currently carry TV signals. Theyll instead be committed to wireless services for smartphones and other data-hungry mobile devices. The auction could produce as much as $40 billion in new licensing fees from AT&T, Verizon Communications and other companies. Congress authorized the auction in 2012 to shift airwaves to mobile services, while also raising billions of dollars to reduce the federal budget deficit.

New Tesla: Tesla Motors, the Palo Alto-based maker of high-end electric cars, will unveil its lower-priced, mass-market electric vehicle called the Model 3 on Thursday. Though the car wont be available to consumers until later in the year, Tesla will start taking $1,000 down payments on Thursday. The Model 3, a sedan, is expected to sell for about $35,000, well below the $80,000 to $100,000 Tesla charges for its current cars. Down payments can be made online or at a Tesla showroom.

Internet privacy: The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday will consider a proposal that would place tough new restrictions on how Internet service providers can use their customers personal information, including Web-browsing activity. In most cases, cable and wireless companies that offer broadband service would need permission from customers to use or share the potentially lucrative trove of data collected about them as they surf the Internet, send email or use mobile apps.

THE AGENDA

Mondays Business section takes a close look at the Southern California housing market. What does it find? Packed open houses. Bidding wars. Rising prices. Competition is fierce as the spring selling season gets underway, and would-be buyers can expect a pitched battle if they want to close a deal. The frenzied start has been driven by a dearth of homes for sale, low mortgage rates and steady job growth.

STORY LINES

Here are some of the other stories that ran in the Times Business section in recent days that were continuing to follow:

Dodgers channel: Time Warner Cable is cutting its asking price for SportsNet LA  its Dodgers channel  by 30% in an effort to persuade cable and satellite providers to pick it up. However, pay-TV providers dont seem to be buying it. DirecTV/AT&T and Verizon declined to comment. Cox Communications said it hopes to reach an agreement with Time Warner that does not burden our customers with excessive price increases. Analysts say the holdouts are unlikely to take the discounted offer because they dont want another rate hike to encourage cord cutting.

Scope sales: Soon after doctors at UCLAs Ronald Reagan Medical Center traced deadly infections to tainted medical scopes last year, they pressed the device maker to lend them replacements. But Olympus refused. Instead, the Tokyo company offered to sell UCLA 35 new scopes for $1.2 million  a 28% increase in price from what it charged the university just months earlier. Emails related to the transaction show how Olympus continued to push sales even as the devices it previously sold to UCLA and other medical institutions were linked to illnesses and deaths.

Hollywood votes no: More Hollywood studios and media companies are putting pressure on Georgias governor to veto legislation thats condemned by opponents as antigay. Time Warner, Disney, Viacom and AMC are among those protesting Georgias Free Exercise Protection Act. Backers say the controversial legislation, passed by Georgia lawmakers March 16, would protect religious freedom. Critics say it would step up legal safeguards for opponents of same-sex marriage.

iPhone hack: Federal officials have been tight-lipped about exactly who has offered to help them open the iPhone of San Bernardino shooter Syed Rizwan Farook  without help from Apple. David Bowdich, assistant director of the FBIs Los Angeles field office, said the third party, which he would not identify, demonstrated the ability to open the phone in testing. Thats why the agency asked a federal judge to delay a hearing in its legal battle against Apple. An Israeli newspaper said that Cellebrite, an Israeli mobile forensics firm, was assisting the FBI.

The Potter effect: Only a few weeks before the opening of its much-anticipated Harry Potter attraction, Universal Studios Hollywood performed a shrinking spell on your wallet. It quietly raised prices up to 20%, pushing its highest-priced daily ticket beyond that of its sister parks in Orlando. And Universal Studios Hollywood isnt alone. Disneyland adopted a new set of ticket prices last month that raised its highest daily ticket by about 20%. The moves shouldnt come as a surprise because both Southern California parks are preparing to open what may be their most popular attractions in years.

WHAT WERE READING

Some recent stories from other publications that caught our eye:

Amazons dream: The New York Times looks at Amazons aggressive lobbying efforts to be a delivery powerhouse. Amazon has emerged as one of the tech industrys most outspoken players in Washington, spending millions on this effort and meeting regularly with lawmakers and regulators.

Skys the limit: Bloomberg serves up a profile of Vietnams Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, who is poised to become Southeast Asias first self-made woman billionaire known for putting bikini-clad models on her VietJet Aviation Joint Stock Co. planes and calendars.

Andy Grove: Slate remembers former Intel CEO Andy Grove, who died last week. He was a brilliant but unsparing manager and ultra-rough competitor. ... Only Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and now Elon Musk are in remotely the same category.

Edifice complex: Want to understand Donald Trump? Do what Quartz did and pay a visit to Trump Tower. Youll find the personification of the real estate mogul and see manifestations of the many controversies surrounding him.

Seeing the light: Hows this for a sign of the times? CNBC says descendants of Standard Oil founder John D. Rockefeller have sold their ExxonMobil stock and plan to dump all other fossil-fuel investments. Theyve concluded theres no sane rationale to be in the oil business.

SPARE CHANGE

Some of you may be saying, Standard Oil? Whats that? Nearly every U.S. oil company can trace its corporate DNA back to Standard, which was broken up by the feds in 1911. One of the 34 companies created was Esso, which became Exxon, which became ExxonMobil.

For the latest money news, go to www.latimes.com/business. Until next time, Ill see you in the Business section.
The price for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. continues to rocket higher, with the latest bid from Chinas Anbang Insurance Group Co. and its partners crossing the $15-billion mark.

Starwood, whose properties include Sheraton hotels, San Franciscos Westin St. Francis and the St. Regis New York, said Monday that the offer from the Anbang group is reasonably likely to be superior to the one made last week by Marriott International Inc.

Although Marriotts chief executive, Arne Sorenson, said in an interview at the time on CNBC that he didnt tell Starwood the latest offer was Marriotts last and best, some industry analysts believe this may be a fight Marriott cant win.

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For Anbang, they say, Starwood isnt valued so much for its brand name as much as it is for its location: outside China.

That has been the view of Canaccord analyst Ryan Meliker, who told clients in a research note, We dont think [Marriott] can go higher, and we would question it if they did.

Anbang and a number of Chinese companies have been seeking to park money in more stable locations, such as U.S. real estate, particularly with signs of slowing growth at home growing ever clearer.

The blitz by Anbang into the U.S. real estate market has repeatedly knocked askew the ambitions of Marriott, which has been trying to add Starwoods posh stable of hotels to its portfolio since last year.

Marriott bid $12.2 billion for the Greenwich, Conn.,-based hotel firm in November, and most had expected that the deal would go through, making the combined company the biggest hotel firm in the world.

But few had realized the ambition or motivation of Anbang, even though the Chinese company made a big splash in the U.S. real estate market two years ago when it acquired the famed Waldorf Astoria in New York for almost $2 billion.

Anbangs goals became a bit clearer this month  even before it challenged Marriott for control of Starwood  when it laid down $6.5 billion to acquire Strategic Hotels & Resorts Inc., which owns several high-end properties including the Loews Santa Monica Beach and the historic Hotel del Coronado near San Diego.

Marriott said Monday that it remains confident Starwood would be better off with its bid. CEO Sorenson has said the tie-up would create a global powerhouse with a loyalty program unmatched by any other hotel.

And Starwood said Monday that its board has not changed its recommendation in support of a deal with Marriott, though it is reviewing Anbangs latest offer.

The newest offer from Anbang is for $88.66 per Starwood share, or $15.03 billion. That tops Marriotts latest bid of $14.41 billion.

Anbangs offer includes $82.75 per share in cash, which is an increase of $4.75 per share from its previous bid. The bid also includes $5.91 in stock for a spinoff of a vacation business.

Whoever gains control of Starwood will likely be entering Cuba as well. This month, Starwood became the first U.S. hotel operator to gain access to the country.

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Packed open houses. Bidding wars. Rising prices.

Thats the landscape for much of the Southern California housing market as the spring selling season gets underway. Competition is as fierce, or even greater, than last year in many corners of the Southland, and would-be buyers can expect a pitched battle if they want to close a deal, real estate agents say.

The frenzied start has been driven by a dearth of homes for sale, low mortgage rates and steady job growth. Homes are selling faster than a year earlier, with more of them going for above the list price, data from online brokerage Redfin show.

Be ready to write the offer on the Realtors car, mortgage broker Jeff Lazerson said.

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Another sign of the markets strength came this month when data provider CoreLogic reported that sales in February jumped 9% from a year earlier. The median price, meanwhile, climbed 3.7%  the 47th straight month its risen.

Lazerson said his clients in Los Angeles and Orange counties are putting an average of five offers on a house before theyre successful. And hes seeing more demand from first-time home buyers, as well as those who want to upgrade to a bigger home.

The market seems to be healthy again on all levels, he said.

Real estate agent Heather Presha has seen the craziness firsthand.

With few homes for sale in the Leimert Park neighborhood where she works, buyers are flooding open houses that pop up. Many are coming from the Westside, no longer able to afford a home near the ocean as prices have steadily risen across the region.

The added demand is pushing values higher in the South L.A. neighborhood filled with old Spanish-style homes.

Pat Douglas, another agent in Leimert Park, put it this way: Anything good that is on the market is going quick with multiple offers.

In Los Angeles County, there was a 4.9-month supply of homes for sale in February compared with a 5.2-month supply a year earlier  meaning no homes would be on the market after that time period if sales continued at their current pace and no new listings emerged, according to the California Assn. of Realtors. Orange County saw a similar trend.

The Realtors consider a six- to seven-month supply a market that favors neither buyers nor sellers.

The inventory issue is why price growth is strong, said Redfin chief economist Nela Richardson.

Recently theres been a healthy jump in listings, Richardson said, but its unclear if the trend will hold.

If it does, house hunters such as Abigail Lee and her husband, Ray, would be overjoyed.

The couple are looking for a home under $2 million, but theyve found little suitable near a good public school. Theyve put in only two offers in the roughly six months theyve been looking  and were unsuccessful both times.

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This month, Lee, 32, went to a packed open house for a four-bedroom house in north Redondo Beach. It was so busy that the real estate agent ran out of fliers. She put in an offer for more than the $1-million asking price but lost. Instead, the home went into escrow to another buyer, less than a week after it was listed for sale.

In such a hot market, would-be sellers are conflicted about whether to cash in now or wait for prices to rise further. Some have begun to question how long the hot market can last.

They think we are due for a correction, said Nikki Hochstein, an agent who specializes in the Westside and is helping the Lees find a home.

Home values are expected to climb this year, given low mortgage rates and job growth. But for many people, wages arent rising fast enough, so economists predict prices will increase less than in previous years as families increasingly struggle to afford a home.

Februarys data were in line with those expectations, even though signs had emerged in recent months that price gains were once again accelerating. The 3.7% increase was the smallest since last spring.

On a recent Sunday, about 150 people flocked to a three-bedroom condo in West L.A. for an open house, agent Tregg Rustad said.

Among the interested buyers were Sameena Shaikh, a medical researcher, and her husband, Muddassar, who works as a software engineer in Santa Monica.

The couple have been searching for a home for about a year but havent pulled the trigger. In that time, theyve seen prices rise and now fear mortgage rates will jump. As they surveyed the packed open house they vowed to be less picky.

We dont want to make the same mistake, Sameena said.

Muddassar explained their new tactic: Lets just buy something.

Not everywhere in Southern California is red hot, however.

Pegi DiRienzo, a Teles Properties agent, said the market has slowed in the corner of Irvine in which she specializes.

There are fewer buyers from China than last year, given troubles in that countrys economy, DiRienzo said. A flood of new homes have also come on the market near the citys Great Park. And buyers are increasingly flocking to those, rather than older houses in the Turtle Rock neighborhood near UC Irvine.

Its going to take a little longer this year to sell properties, DiRienzo said.

The ultra-luxury market  $10 million and above  has also floundered as international buyers pull back while the economies in their home countries weaken and the U.S. dollar strengthens, said Nick Segal, chief executive of the Partners Trust brokerage in Beverly Hills.

A fair number of these purchases 12 months ago were aspirational luxury purchases: I now own a home in Los Angeles and its my fourth residence, he said. Those buyers have dried up.

But those are exceptions.

The demand is good, said Carey Chenoski, an agent who specializes in the Redlands area. Things are moving quickly.

andrew.khouri@latimes.com

Twitter: @khouriandrew

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The DC cinematic universe is currently shrouded in a thematic darkness of director Zack Snyders making. Both Man of Steel and Batman v Superman had equally dark tones and forced their heroes to grapple with death and murder. And we can only assume that this serious emphasis will extend to Snyders next movie, The Justice League (Part 1). But what about the rest of the DC universe, and specifically, what about the typically lighter character of Aquaman, the superhero who can control fish?

Aquaman director James Wan, who was at the Los Angeles Convention Center promoting his upcoming horror flicks, The Conjuring 2" and Lights Out, discussed the DC theme in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

And while he wasnt ready to give away too many details about the feature film that stars Jason Momoa as Aquaman and Amber Heard as Mera, Wan did let us know that Aquaman will have a high-seas adventures kind of feel.

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Zack Snyder has said this is a filmmaker-run franchise. When he says that, and then sets a tone like he did in Batman v Superman and states that the Flash on TV is not how the cinematic universe is going to do it, how does Snyders tone influence your tone?

James Wan: I definitely think theyve separated the two separate worlds, the feature world of DC and the TV world of DC. They dont run in the same universe. I think in a lot of ways that actually frees up the filmmakers, in both mediums, to just do what they want to do and not have to worry about, Oh wait this has the tone of what we did there, this has the tone of what happened in this other movie over here. And they actually just free you up to just tell the film you want to tell.

But how does his film tone influence your films tone?

Well, like Zack said, from Day One, Warner has always said to me that we are a filmmaker-driven studio and we want each of the DC characters to have the stamp and the trademark of the filmmakers that theyve picked to come shepherd it. As Ive always said, whether its at Marvel or at DC, they have that sandbox. That sandbox is in place. So you have to come in there and play within their sandbox. But the key here is to build your own sandcastle. And make that sandcastle yours.

So what does your sandcastle look like?

Its too early to speak of at this point.

Because Aquaman is a fun character. There are comic book covers of him patching up an octopus.

I would love to capture the fun spirit of high-sea adventures, treasure hunts, sea monsters. Thats the spirit that Im going for. Swashbuckling.

***

So perhaps the DC cinematic universe isnt entirely lost in darkness. After all, when I inquired if the walrus sidekick, Tusky, would be involved in the movie production, Wan replied: Youll find out. Then again, who knows whats lurking at the bottom of the ocean.

Aquaman is schedule for release July 27, 2018.

Twitter: @MdellW
Thunderbirds Are Go! may never get to the level of popularity in the United States that it enjoyed in the United Kingdom, but thats not stopping Amazon from rebooting the franchise  slated to officially premiere on April 22  and it did not stop fans at WonderCon from celebrating it during the shows panel.

Images from the Thunderbirds series  mostly the ships that they pilot and the island that the rescuers make their home  played on the large screen in front of the room before Tom McLean, editor of Animation Magazine, came to the podium to introduce the panel.

David Graham, who plays reformed criminal-turned-manservant Aloysius Parker now and in in the original series, David Menkin, who portrays two of the heroic Tracy brothers, Andres Williams, who takes the role as the villainous Hood and head writer Rob Hoegee were introduced as the panelists.

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The original show was about an adventurous group of brothers who helped people using guts, training, technology and cool vehicles. They were cool, and they were puppets. The way the show is made is not the only thing that has been updated.

As you would think, the panel started off telling everyone what the difference will be between the new series and the 50-year-old classic Thunderbirds. First was that the show had to update itself since the original was rooted in the 60s.

There are 100% less martinis  and no smoking, said Hoegee.

And they use seatbelts. And helmets! said Menkin.

The original series was a product of its time. It was Mad Men with rescue ships, said Hoegee.

A view of the room during the Thunderbirds Are Go! panel. (Jevon Phillips / Los Angeles Times)

The other big update is the use of CGI. The sightly strings of the supermarionettes used on the show was a fun part of the viewing experience. The reboot, as Hoegee calls it, has transitioned away from the strings to a mixture of CGI animation and live-action model sets. Weta Workshop, made famous by creating the world of The Lord of the Rings in New Zealand, is the digital partner in creating the look of the new show. A trailer was shown explaining how Weta built the sets, along with the cars and vehicles, spotlighting how much special care was also put into making the headquarters of the rescue group, Tracy Island.

Graham, who received lengthy applause, also told the audience what changes might be in store for Parker, a character that hes voiced for five decades.

Has Parker changed much? No. Hes still an old reformed villain. The voice is still the same, said Graham. His relationship with Lady Penelope is still  deferential. She has to keep her eyes on him in case he goes off the rails.

Going off the rails is easy for Menkin, who plays two of the arguing Tracy brothers.

I get my Gollum moments, said Menkin, referencing the performance of the schizophrenic character by Andy Serkis in the Lord of the Rings saga. With a popular reboot, the actor also believes its both a blessing and a curse to have premeditated expectations.

Were being set up to fail in a good way. Fans wont immediately accept you, so be who you think he is, said Menkin.

With changes that include recent Oscar nominee Rosamund Pike in the cast, those expectations may already exist. One thing about the show that has remained constant is the importance placed on the rescue vehicles. Pikes Lady Penelope has one of the more distinctive vehicles with her pink, Parker-driven, six-wheeled flying car. A video during the panel shows how each vehicle fits the personalities of the pilot and are as much characters as the people.

Before the Q&A session starts, one last video is squeezed in. Theres a rescue of a father and son on a runaway hot air balloon, while simultaneously a mission is undertaken to repair a wayward satellite in space. Thats just how the Thunderbirds roll.

Many of the questions asked were inaudible. Probably one of the better questions asked by the audience was the first one: Why Amazon instead of Netflix? Hoegees response? Because theyre better? Yeah, because theyre better. We just wanted to find the right partner.

And lastly, the crowd was treated to the first episode of the series. A minor surprise.

Tidbits:

 Seth Laderman (executive vice president/general manager of Comic-Con HQ) was excited that the fledgling streaming service would be offering Thunderbirds as well as Amazon Prime.

 A fan expessed happily that she has all kinds of DVDs, etc., of the show or related to it. To which Graham replied: Thank you, and youre money,

 Hoegee, speaking about Pike: Great to have a female lead who was just in the middle of being nominated for an Oscar.

 Sylvia Anderson, a co-creator of the show who provided the voices of many female and child characters during the shows original run  including Lady Penelope  died last week. Hoegee and the actors thanked her before leaving the stage.

 After the panel: The show has an international divide. Menkin, an American, did not remember sitting down to watch the show, though he thinks he remembers seeing it. Williams, whos lived abroad in many locales, knew the show well and knew of its immense popularity.

 Also after the panel. Hoegee talked a bit more about the decision to not use marionettes, saying, We wanted to emulate a little bit of the marionette, but kids today would have a hard time buying that. Kids are demanding.

Follow me on Twitter: @Storiz
The California rail authority is facing hundreds of millions of dollars in potential change orders and other prospective cost increases on the first 29 miles of the bullet train system, state and private contractor documents show.

The change orders and other claims are coming from construction firms, utilities and railroads involved in that first segment, according to the documents.

Several of the biggest claims and change orders could cost 10% to more than 30% above original estimates for the segment, which is to run between Madera and Fresno. Scores of smaller claims could mean additional spending.

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Higher costs for the first construction phase of the project would carry implications for the entire $64-billion system.

The rail authority has repeatedly asserted that Central Valley contracts were signed for below budget amounts. If claims submitted after those contracts were signed send costs above budget, they will call into question the rail authoritys cost projections for the full system.

The contractor team on the first segment has sent the rail authority a log that includes more than 300 pending change orders and notices, about 200 of which do not yet include cost estimates. The team, led by Sylmar-based Tutor Perini, won a $1-billion contract in 2013 for the first segment. The Times obtained a copy of the log dated last November and a subsequent update in January.

Asked about the notices, state officials said the documents are not yet official claims or demands, and should not be considered final.

The fact that the contractor will submit change orders or claims to us is really just the start of the process, rail authority Chairman Dan Richard said in an interview. It is not a self-executing process.

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The requests will be audited by the authority to see if the costs they claim really did happen, Richard said. After that there will be the process of what really caused those and who has the responsibility.

He noted that the process also works in the other direction. We will have claims against the contractor for not being ready to do things they should have been ready to do.

Ron Tutor, chief executive of Tutor Perini, did not return a call requesting comment.

The rail authority has approved about $14 million in change orders, and the logs from Tutor Perini include an additional $51.7 million that the company has estimated.

Among the unpriced change orders is a potentially large claim Tutor Perini is preparing against the state for project delays. The firm cited the states failure to deliver land parcels over a two-year period after the contract was awarded.

The state had virtually none of the land acquired in 2013 when it awarded the Tutor Perini contract, and limited construction did not begin until July 2015.

Tutor Perini believes the state owes it $65 million for a 17-month delay, according to company documents obtained by The Times. A second delay of seven months could be priced at $30 million, according to experts who have looked at the computations.

Rail authority spokeswoman Lisa Marie Alley said the authority has not received a formal claim from Tutor Perini about the delays.

It will take time for the state and contractors to decide on the costs of change orders. But construction industry experts who reviewed the logs said those changes could be costly. Several estimated they could exceed $400 million on the initial contract.

They based their estimates on the large volume of change orders, lengthy delays and the significant revisions of the original plans.

NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >>

If you award a contract and promise to make the land available and it isnt there, it can have consequences, said William Ibbs, a UC Berkeley civil engineering professor who has consulted on high-speed rail projects around the world. Delay claims occur all the time.

The Tutor Perini computed costs include idle-equipment charges, overhead, higher prices for materials and additional insurance, among other items. The company parked dozens of pieces of heavy construction equipment in yards near the Fresno project.

The rail authority has set aside a $160-million contingency fund for potential cost overruns on the segment, which, including work by utilities, is estimated to cost $1.2 billion to $1.8 billion.

But project chief Gary Griggs of Parsons Brinckerhoff, the states lead consultant, last month warned the authority board that it might have to increase that contingency fund by an additional $150 million.

In addition to problems raised by Tutor, potential costs have risen for utilities, highway relocations and freight railroad issues.

This month, a report by rail authority staff warned that a $150-million cost increase was projected for just two companies, communications giant AT&T and utility provider PG&E.

Alley said the increased costs relate to design issues and a better understanding of utility impacts. Part of the problem involves what construction managers call unexpected conditions, in which the lines are not where blueprints show.

The state did research with PG&E to find gas and electrical locations, but those lines are not always where you think they are or as deep as you think they are, said Fresno public works director Scott Mozier. Fresno has no direct role in the matter, except handling its own water and sewer pipes.

Railroads are discussing tens of millions of dollars in compensation for impacts on their operations, including relocation of their tracks, barriers separating their lines from future bullet train tracks and other uses of their property.

The two freight railroads did not respond to requests for comment.

One of the major unpriced change orders on the Tutor Perini log involves the relocation of a one-mile stretch of Golden State Avenue in Fresno, a major north-south four-lane highway.

The contract originally would move the road by about 25 feet, but business owners protested to Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin, saying it would damage their operations. Swearengin negotiated a new plan to relocate the highway by about 400 feet around the back of the businesses, said Mozier, the public works director.

The work includes relocating a flood retention basin, moving utilities, gutters and much more, at a cost likely to get into the high tens of millions of dollars, according to one engineer close to the project. Alley said the agency is negotiating a price for the change and would not speculate about the cost.

This change was important to us because [it] resulted in fewer impacts to property owners, which is a key element of this program, Alley said.

The Golden State realignment concerns some Fresno leaders, though the project still has the strong support of Swearengin.

Right here in the first mile in Fresno, you have a major change, said Steve Brandau, a city councilman whose district includes the realignment section. How many times is this going to happen by the time they get to Los Angeles?

Brandau said he is worried that Fresno could be left torn up if the project stumbles, adding that rail authority officials routinely disregard his requests for information on construction plans in his own district.

Lawson Rock & Oil Inc., the states largest hauler of crude oil, has a large truck yard on Golden State Boulevard that was among the affected businesses. Owner John Lawson, a member of the Fresno County planning commission and a former member of the California Transportation Commission, said the rail authority made a major error in awarding the Tutor Perini contract when it had such little property in hand.

When they awarded Tutor the contract, the state owned three or four pieces of property, Lawson said. That was pretty stupid. If they can build this for [$64 billion] like the liars say, I say build it. But when it gets to $150 billion they are going to be in deep trouble.

Higher costs for the first 29 miles could be just part of broader increases affecting the entire 118 miles of construction in the Central Valley.

A detailed analysis of the bullet train project by Elizabeth Alexis, a private investment manager and cofounder of a Bay Area group critical of the project, asserts that the Central Valley construction segment from Madera to near Bakersfield is now about $1.2 billion above the 2012 budget of $5.8 billion  a 21% jump. A spreadsheet that details the changes was submitted to the Legislature and the rail authority.

Their plans change all the time, so it is hard to track on an apples-to-apples basis how their costs have changed, she said. None of their documents allow this direct comparison.

In a report this month, the Legislative Analysts Office concluded that the amount, schedule and cost of work in the Central Valley have changed over time, making it difficult to determine how well the high speed rail authority is adhering to the budget for that segment.

ralph.vartabedian@latimes.com

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Im Davan Maharaj, editor-in-chief of the Los Angeles Times. Here are some story lines I dont want you to miss today.

TOP STORIES

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The latest USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll has some great details about how California voters view the presidential candidates. In terms of front-runners, were in a land of disenchantment: 45% view Hillary Clinton unfavorably, while three-quarters feel that way about Donald Trump. On the Democratic side, most of Bernie Sanders supporters here say they expect Clinton will be elected president and theyre largely OK with that. As for the Republicans, the divide between supporters of Trump and Ted Cruz is wider. And in a hypothetical general election? Clinton wins the Golden State easily, even when pitted against John Kasich.

Minimum Wage, Maximum Anxiety

Lawmakers and unions have reached a tentative deal that would increase Californias minimum wage to $10.50 an hour next year and then gradually to $15 by 2022. It could be approved as early as this week. But the news is making employers and employees wonder how the higher wage would affect them. Read on to see why both sides are making some nervous calculations.

An Easter Sunday Bombing

It was supposed to be a pleasant evening in a public park in Lahore, Pakistan -- an Easter Sunday escape for families in a country with just a tiny Christian minority. Then, a suicide bomber set off an explosives vest, killing scores and wounding hundreds, most of them women and children. A splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility and said it was aimed at Christians celebrating Easter.

The Retaking of Palmyra, Jewel of the Desert

After the ancient city of Palmyra fell into Islamic State hands in May, militants sparked outrage when they blew up archaeological treasures and beheaded the retired director of the citys antiquities museum. On Sunday, Syrian government forces regained control of what had become a powerful symbol in the conflict. It was also one of the clearest indications yet that the tide is turning against the extremist group in the six months since Russia began providing military support. Whats left of the citys treasures? We should find out soon.

Virtual Reality: You Can Goggle It

With the ringing of a doorbell by a delivery person, the era of virtual reality at home is here this week -- at least for those early adopters who preordered Oculus $599 Rift. More high-end headsets, from HTC and Sony, are on the way. So will this be the year virtual reality redefines mass media? Thats where it gets complicated. Reporter Todd Martens walks us through this brave, new world. Best part: He wont give you motion sickness.

OUR MUST-READS FROM THE WEEKEND

-- San Bernardino is trying to stop a rise in violence, much of it tied to gangs and drugs.

-- When serving in the U.S. military isnt enough to prevent deportation.

-- Two more deaths may be linked to contaminated medical scopes.

-- Unintended conflict: In Syria, militias armed by the Pentagon fight those armed by the CIA.

-- California has blood test results showing high levels of lead in children living near the closed Exide battery plant in Vernon but isnt using the information to direct its massive cleanup.

-- New front in the culture wars: Hollywood threatens to boycott production in Georgia over proposed legislation regarding gay people.

-- Start them up: The Rolling Stones played Cuba, and reporter Kate Linthicum was there.

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CALIFORNIA

-- Changes could add hundreds of millions of dollars to the first 29 miles of the bullet train.

-- The pharmaceutical industry is lobbying hard against an L.A. County proposal to create sites where unused medication can be dropped off for disposal.

-- Heres how a former high school dropout became a top education official.

-- The slaying of a British tourist in San Francisco, caught on video, brings shock and outrage.

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-- The inquiry into Hillary Clintons email handling enters a new phase as FBI interviews loom.

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-- Has Warner Bros. created too bleak a world in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice? Either way, it did big box office.

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-- Why Hollywood is having a love affair with Ireland.

-- Jessica Biel doesnt care if you call her snotty for her kid-friendly restaurant Au Fudge.

-- Photos: From Fred Flintstone to Daenerys Targaryen, here are the cosplay costumes at WonderCon in downtown L.A.

BUSINESS

-- Southern California home buyers face fierce competition and tight inventory this spring.

-- Disingenuous, extreme and capricious. Its not the presidential campaign. Airlines get nasty in the competition for routes to Cuba.

SPORTS

-- Why this years Final Four will be scandal versus smile.

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-- Bedrooms are mysteriously popping up in Berlins subway system, and no one is quite sure of the maker or the message. (The Guardian)

-- In the Victorian era, some men had a thing for climbing trees and collecting bird eggs -- a perilous hobby that provides todays scientists with valuable information. (The Atlantic)

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ONLY IN L.A.

Strawberry-filled doughnuts. Thirty-dollar eggs. The porno burrito. Columnist Carolina Miranda and her pals tried them all over the last few months, but with a twist: They combined their culinary tour of L.A. County with 120 miles of running, which gave them a ground-level view of the communities in which these eateries exist. See what they learned on the way and how they give new meaning to the term eat and run.

Please send comments and ideas to Davan Maharaj.
Venice resident Carol Royce-Wilder received a call a few weeks ago about a proposed program in Los Angeles County that would set up a network of sites where unused medication could be dropped off for disposal.

Its a topic in which Royce-Wilder, 74, is interested. She said she worries about the proper way to dispose of prescription drugs.

The guy starts giving me this pitch that its going to cost a huge amount of taxpayer money if the bill passes, she said. I assumed from what he said that he was with a consumer organization.

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He asked if she would be willing to send a letter to her county supervisor, Sheila Kuehl, opposing the proposal. She agreed.

The pre-written letter arrived a few days later. Before sending it to Kuehl, Royce-Wilder decided to research the organization behind it.

She was surprised to find that the group, Consumer Healthcare Products Assn., was an industry lobbying group representing over-the-counter drug manufacturers. She said she felt bamboozled.

County officials have gotten a lot of those letters. Drug manufacturers have mounted a vigorous lobbying campaign against the county proposal, which would require pharmaceutical companies to finance a disposal program for unused medications and syringes.

Proponents say the program would reduce chemicals ending up in the water supply, and would help curb prescription drug abuse by making sure that unused drugs are safely disposed of rather than stockpiled in medicine cabinets.

The opponents say it would be costly and have little effect on the problem. They argue that the better solution would be to educate consumers about how to properly dispose of their unused medications, which they argue would be in the trash in a sealed plastic bag.

Drug take-back programs are common outside the United States but are only beginning to gain traction here. A handful of California counties have adopted ordinances like the one L.A. County is considering. The first one, adopted by Alameda County in 2012, was held up in court until May 2015, when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an industry challenge to the law.

Soon after, L.A. County supervisors voted to explore their own prescription drug take-back program, which would also include over-the-counter drugs and syringes. The county has about 20 collection sites run by the Sheriffs Department, and some pharmacies have voluntary take-back programs. Once collected, the drugs are incinerated.

But officials said there arent enough available sites for the countys 10 million residents. They want the pharmaceutical industry to finance the creation of a larger network.

In the second half of 2015, pharmaceutical industry groups spent nearly $250,000 lobbying the county, according to disclosure filings. Supervisors offices received dozens of letters and phone calls from consumers worried that the measure would push up the cost of their medication.

This is a much more concentrated level of lobbying than I usually see in the county, and I think its because theres a national issue at stake here, said Kuehl, who said she favors a drug take-back ordinance. From what I can tell, theyre spending more on lobbying than they ever would on a take-back program.

Its unclear how much the program would actually cost, as it would be up to the drug manufacturers to design it. Drop-off sites could be at pharmacies or other locations, and measures could include allowing consumers to mail in their unused drugs.

In Alameda County, the program still has not been fully implemented but was projected to cost between $330,000 a year  the countys estimate  and $1.2 million  the drug companies. Pharmaceutical companies collect $950 million a year in sales revenue there.

A spokesman for the Consumer Healthcare Products Assn. said in a statement that the county proposal would create an expensive, inefficient, unworkable and ineffective program that would garner low levels of participation and do little to accomplish the goals the county is seeking to resolve.

Instead, the group wants the county to collaborate on a public education campaign.

L.A. County is important to us because it presents an immense opportunity to advance a public-private partnership that effectively deals with the issue of safe medicine disposal, the statement said.

Other industry groups, including Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, sent letters taking a similar position.

On the other side, the take-back program is supported by environmental, waste management and consumer protection groups and by many of the countys smaller cities. The city of Los Angeles has yet to take a position on it. Individual cities would have to opt in to the countys program, which would initially cover only unincorporated areas.

The proposal had been expected to come to the Board of Supervisors for a vote Tuesday, but at the request of Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich  who initially proposed the program  the board agreed last week to postpone it until May 3.

Antonovich wrote that the county had received numerous calls and inquiries about the implementation of such a program, necessitating further review.

His health deputy, Fred Leaf, said the supervisor still wants to find ways to reduce the volume of drugs that find their way into the water supply. But he said they wanted more time to understand the legal requirements and address the issues raised by the industry groups.

Its really complicated and we want to make sure that we have a program that really can be rolled out and works, he said.

abby.sewell@latimes.com

Twitter: @sewella

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Add Sean Diddy Combs to the list of millionaires trying to fix American education. At the charter school the music mogul is opening in Harlem, teachers will be called "Illuminators" and social justice will be key.

Combs announced Monday that Capital Prep Harlem, which will ultimately teach grades 6-12, will open in Harlem this year with a sixth and seventh grade. The school is taking applications for students and staff, both of which Perry said he expects to see jump with the announcement.

The musician is co-founding the school with Steve Perry, a recognized name in education reform who has sparred with union leaders and made TV appearances such as on CNN's "Black in America." Perry founded a public magnet campus in Hartford, Conn., in 2005, and a charter in Bridgeport, Conn., founded in 2015. Charter schools are publicly funded and can be privately operated.

Combs provided office space and staff in New York to launch the school, Perry said. Initially, those staffers canvassed the neighborhood for support. Perry said he hasn't asked Combs to donate his money to the school, and the musician's day-to-day involvement is still to be determined.

Teachers are called illuminators because they're more than just instructors, said Capital Prep Harlem Principal Danita Jones.

What I did as a teacher was not what illuminators do," Jones said. Illuminators literally ... coparent.

That level of involvement includes calling parents every two weeks, setting aside time each day to check in on students' social-emotional needs, helping them identify and solve community problems, and getting them to a four-year college.

https://twitter.com/iamdiddy/status/714529405725515777

Students are expected not only to complete college, but to understand the importance of helping their communities. One student in Hartford created a program that provides students with a backpack filled with food for the weekend if they didn't have enough at home, Jones said. Students must identify a problem in middle school, and work on a "social justice project" throughout high school.

"I want to impact the lives of young people in my community, and build future leaders. The first step is offering access to a quality education, Combs said in a statement. "All our children should be able to pursue their dreams."

Combs' press release says he chose Capital Prep as the model for his school "after an exhaustive search for the best educational model and partner."

As Perry recalls, Combs stopped him as he was leaving a mutual friend's engagement party about six years ago.

"He said...'No one knows this, but Ive always wanted to start a school,'" Perry said. They exchanged numbers, but Perry said he wasn't interested in expanding beyond Connecticut.

For years, Perry tried to convince Combs to start a scholarship or after-school program instead. But Combs was relentless.

Reach Sonali Kohli at Sonali.Kohli@latimes.com or on Twitter @Sonali_Kohli.
The California rail authoritys failure to identify a source of funding to connect Los Angeles to the future bullet train system is not acceptable, said Hasan Ikhrata, executive director of the Southern California Assn. of Governments.

Until the high-speed rail authority released a new draft business plan last month, the state had planned to open its first operating segment between Burbank and the Central Valley by 2022. But in a major concession to its limited funding, the plan now calls for a cheaper segment that would run from San Jose to the Central Valley by 2025.

By the time that initial segment is built, all the existing funds would be exhausted, leaving uncertainty about how and when the line would ever cross the geologically complex mountains of Southern California.

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The lack of specificity is stirring some deep concerns among legislative analysts and Southern Californias political leadership, reflected in Ikhratas position. Ikhrata is scheduled to testify at an Assembly oversight hearing Monday and says he will deliver a message that there are still too many unknowns in the plan.

You cant say you can do something without saying how you are going to pay for it, he said in an interview. This is a must. If you dont have the money in the bank, I understand that. But you cant assume the money is going to fall from the sky. You have to have a path. You cant be silent totally.

The state Legislative Analysts Office has raised the same concerns, saying in a report that the business plan fails to make a case for how it will pay for a completed system. The $64-billion mega-project has been funded so far by a $9-billion bond, $3.2 billion in federal grants and about $500 million a year in greenhouse gas fees, all of which leave a shortfall estimated at $43.5 billion, an amount that would be difficult or impossible to find in the short term.

The association of governments has played a key role in representing the region at the rail authority, signing a 2013 memorandum of understanding that provided for about $1 billion of investment in Southern Californias transit systems to prepare for the future bullet train. The deal put Southern California on a near-equal footing with the Bay Area, which received money to electrify its Caltrain commuter system.

But the larger questions remain about the projects ability to deliver a system that would connect Los Angeles and San Francisco in 2 hours and 40 minutes, which is required under the 2008 bond act that voters approved. In the earlier plan, the rationale for starting in Southern California was based on the regions larger population and the gap in passenger rail service that now exists between Bakersfield and Palmdale over the Tehachapi Mountains.

Rail authority chief Dan Richard said in a recent interview that closing the rail gap remains important, but the state simply did not have the estimated $31 billion it would take to build in the south. The northern alternative would cost $21 billion and allow the state to build an operating system, theoretically with the funding it already has.

We understand that high-speed rail wants to start in the north, Ikhrata said. We understand that logic. Having said that, this system will only be valuable if this connects San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The statement reflects a continued belief that starting the system in the south remains the most logical approach and some nervousness that the region could be left behind, despite Richards often repeated assurances that it wont be.

The most important segment is from Bakersfield to Palmdale, because there isnt any rail connection, Ikhrata said. That gap must be closed and the business plan must be clear how they are going to close it. If they build a system that fails to connect Los Angeles, this will be the biggest failure of an infrastructure project we have ever had in the state of California. It will be sad for future generations.

A central political reality of the bullet train project is that its main supporters are from Northern California, led by Gov. Jerry Brown. Ikhrata said the project does not have enough support among key leaders in the Los Angeles region.

You dont find advocates because the story has changed so many times, he said. They are getting antsy. They are playing along.

There also remains crucial questions about how the future bullet train system will actually be constructed and how it will operate in Southern California, which Ikhrata believes needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.

We are still where we started, he said.

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Ikhrata said the business plan now envisions using shared track throughout much of Southern California, though exactly what that means is unclear. In earlier planning, the state rail authority had planned to share track with Metrolink commuter trains and freight trains between Los Angeles and Anaheim. In the previous plan, the system would have had dedicated exclusive track between Los Angeles Union Station and Palmdale.

But Ikhrata said the blended system would now include the section between Union Station and Palmdale.

If so, it could affect the top speeds of the trains. Under past plans, the rail authority said the trains would operate at the full 220 mph between Bakersfield and Los Angeles. But a blended system could result in lower planned speeds, as it has in the Bay Area.

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To avert a strike at the nations largest public university system, California State University administrators should grant faculty members the 5% pay raise their union has been demanding for nearly a year, an independent mediator said Monday.

The recommendation isnt binding. But it does increase the odds that 26,000 professors, lecturers, librarians, counselors and coaches will strike next month if university administrators keep insisting they can only afford to offer a 2% raise, said California Faculty Assn. President Jennifer Eagan.

If we had faculty that were on the fence, I think this will drive folks to the picket lines and make them brave, said Eagan, a professor of philosophy and public administration at Cal State East Bay.

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The faculty union has already approved a strike for April 13 to 15, April 18 and April 19.

Rebecca Cummings, an English lecturer at Cal State Long Beach, said she is ready to go.

If any of my colleagues needed a further nudge, I hope this report does the trick, Cummings said. Im pretty fired up, myself. Ill be out there every day.

Cal State Chancellor Timothy P. White said he would discuss the mediators report with trustees next week. Officials have pledged to keep the 23-campus system open during a strike, but White acknowledged that any work stoppage would be problematic.

The only people who are going to get hurt are students, he said. We pride ourselves on being focused on student success; to stop services for them is not in their best interest.

The report was prepared by Bonnie Prouty Castrey, a specialist in conflict resolution, after negotiations between faculty and administrators reached an impasse last summer.

Both sides had presented Castrey with evidence supporting their positions. In siding with the union, she noted that educators pay had stagnated during the recession and the faculty are still suffering from structural salary issues as well as the lack of substantial salary increases.

In addition to a general 5% raise, Castrey also recommended that some faculty receive additional increases based on their length of service and other factors.

All this would cost the Cal State system about $102 million a year, White said.

In addition, contracts in place with other unions would require administrators to grant raises to members of other bargaining units, White said.

Administrators have set aside only $33 million for a 2% faculty raise, White said. Paying any more this fiscal year is a non-starter because it would mean taking money from programs to boost technology on campuses and improve graduation rates by increasing the number of professors and counselors.

I cannot spend money I do not have, White said. That would be irresponsible.

The system has an annual operating budget of nearly $5.8 billion. The new fiscal year begins July 1.

An accounting professor from Eastern Michigan University who analyzed the Cal State budget on behalf of the faculty union found that the system had about $500 million in excess cash flow in 2015 and more than $2 billion in reserves. Cal State administrators have disputed those figures.

Eagan said administrators have tried to use the $33 million set aside for the 2% pay increase as a bargaining chip and could have set aside more funding for raises earlier in the year.

They should have bargained with us and then set their budget, not the other way around, she said.

In her report, Castrey also suggested both sides work together to lobby lawmakers for more Cal State funding.

White said he was eager to give that a try.

I look forward to working with union leadership to advocate for our students, he said.

Follow @byjsong on Twitter

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Federal appeals court Judge Alex Kozinski, an outspoken critic of prosecutors who commit misconduct, took on a California criminal defense lawyer Monday for being a hazard to clients and a menace to the profession and to the courts.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found that Bakersfield lawyer Gregory H. Mitts was grossly negligent in his representation of Rowan Brooks, an inmate challenging his murder conviction.

The court said Mitts filed Brooks appeal late and then failed to respond to a court order asking for an explanation. Mitts also failed to inform his client of the order, despite persistent inquiries from Brooks, the court said.

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Mitts behavior was not mere negligence, but rather virtual abandonment -- neglect so gross that it is inexcusable, the panel said.

The 9th Circuit ordered the district court to reconsider the case.

In a concurrence, Kozinski, a Reagan appointee, made a veiled appeal to the California bar to discipline the defense lawyer.

Mitts actions consumed countless hours of this courts and the district courts time in dealing with his obstinate incompetence, Kozinski wrote.

If Mitts was so lackadaisical in Brookss case, we can only imagine what problems hes caused, or is likely to cause, other clients, the judge continued. Potential clients, who will put their lives in Mitts hands, as Brooks did, are entitled to know that this lawyer ignores client inquiries, misses jurisdictional deadlines and does not own up to his mistakes.

Kozinski said he was unaware of any disciplinary action pending against Mitts.

The State Bar of California may not yet be aware of Mitts behavior, Kozinski wrote. Perhaps now it will be.

Kozinski has long called for courts to publish the names of errant prosecutors and defense attorneys so lawyer disciplinary organizations will be alerted.

Mitts could not be reached for comment.

On his website, Mitts said he had been practicing in Kern County since 1977 and asserted that he had received certificates from the Bakersfield Californian for being Best Attorney in 2005 and Favorite Attorney in 2006.

When you are in trouble with law enforcement, you want an attorney that you can rely upon and who you feel really cares about you and your case, Mitts wrote on his site. I am that kind of attorney.

State bar records show Mitts has never been publicly disciplined but was suspended in 2001 for failing to pay his bar dues and to take required continuing legal education courses.

Brooks was convicted of killing his wife, Stella Fern Fox, in 2004. At the time, Brooks was having an affair with another woman, whom he married after Foxs death.

Twitter: @mauradolan

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Southern Californians are in for a gusty day Monday, with forecasters predicting strong winds and low visibility.

A low-pressure system approaching from the north is expected to bring cooler temperatures and high winds for the next few days, according to the National Weather Service. Maximum temperatures on Monday are likely to be 8 to 12 degrees below normal.

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Dave Bruno, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, said the Antelope Valley could get damaging wind gusts over 60 mph on Monday. Winds will be strongest in the afternoon and evening, he said, and could make driving difficult.

The wind is the big story today, Bruno said. Its going to be a very windy day, not just a normal windy day.

Strong northwesterly winds with gusts of 40 to 50 mph are forecast along the Central Coast and the mountains in Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Strong gusts are expected across most of Catalina Island as well.

Forecasters also warned of choppy seas and gale-force winds offshore.

The San Gabriel Valley foothills have a small chance of light rain during the morning commute, Bruno said. Rainfall, if any, will be less than a tenth of an inch except for the eastern foothills, where a quarter-inch is possible over the next 24 hours, forecasters said.

In Orange County, there was light rainfall Monday morning. Though this week will be mostly dry, there could be periods of precipitation, especially in mountainous areas of Orange and San Diego counties, through Wednesday, said Brett Albright, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in San Diego.

This is not a significant event, he said. Every once in a while, youll get a little spit of rain.

Snow levels of 7,500 feet in Orange and San Diego county mountains on Monday are expected to lower to 5,000 feet Tuesday, with a few inches of snow possible, forecasters said.

hailey.branson@latimes.com

Follow me at @haileybranson / Google+

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Friends placed flowers and notes at a memorial as they mourned a well-known Chinese herbalist who was killed along with his wife and daughter last week in their Santa Barbara home.

A business associate of the practitioner of holistic medicine was arrested Friday in connection with what authorities called the diabolical, premeditated slayings of the herbalist, his wife and 5-year-old daughter.

Through the weekend, patients and friends made a procession to his office in Santa Barbara to offer their condolences. Many comforted each other and asked how this could have happened.

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This man was the kindest, gentlest, most giving human being Ive ever met in my life, Brooke Crumley told KSBY-TV.

Pierre Haobsh, 27, of Oceanside was arrested in San Diego County early Friday on suspicion of murdering of Weidong Henry Han, 57; Huijie Jennie Yu, 29; and their daughter, Emily, said Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown. A loaded 9-millimeter handgun and property belonging to one of the victims was found inside Haobshs car.

Haobsh is expected to be charged Monday

The slain couple ran a popular Chinese herbal clinic on State Street, and Han was the author of several Chinese medicine books.

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Investigators think Haobsh was recently involved in a business transaction with Han, Brown said. Detectives are still investigating the motive for the killings, which they said may have been financial.

Preliminary indications are that all three suffered gunshot wounds. Hans wife and daughter were last seen about 7 p.m. Tuesday, and Han was last seen at 10 p.m. the same day.

Hans patients arrived Friday at his clinic, the Santa Barbara Herb Clinic, carrying colorful bouquets and handwritten notes.

Irma Russell collected the flowers and arranged them on a table, creating a memorial for a man who touched many in Santa Barbara.

For almost half her life, Russell said, Han had treated her for back pain and chronic flu-like symptoms.

You just knew he was going to fix it, said Russell, 71. He worked magic.

Patient Ron Rakow, 78, described Han as a national treasure.

His life was solving insolvable problems, said Rakow, who suffers from an incurable lung disorder and has breathing problems. Han mixed several herbs into a tea, which Rakow drank daily. His breathing improved, and he can now exercise several hours a day.

This is a sacred place where people come here broken and get fixed, Rakow said, adding that he was heartbroken to learn of the familys death.

Follow @AngelJennings and @VeronicaRochaLA on Twitter.

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As the Bernie Sanders campaign accepts the reality that securing enough votes at this point to win the Democratic nomination outright is impossible, it has moved on to a new phase in its long-shot bid for the White House: hijack Hillary Clintons so-called superdelegates.

Sanders advisors are targeting these party leaders and elected officials who have outsized influence in deciding who gets to be the Democratic nominee, and whom Hillary Clinton moved swiftly and aggressively to lock down early in the race. Each one of their votes at the convention in July is weighted as heavily as those of thousands of voters.

Clinton has 469 of them in her corner. Sanders has just 29.

Sanders advisors argue that if they can come close to catching Clinton in votes by the time the time the primaries conclude in June -- even if they fail to overtake her -- they will be able to persuade these lawmakers and other Democratic dignitaries to reconsider their loyalties to Clinton.

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They offer any number of reasons why that would happen. Clinton is losing the momentum she had earlier in the campaign, they say. Or she cant seal the deal with young voters who will be crucial to any winning coalition for Democrats in the fall. Or Clintons big lead early on was artificial because Sanders did not compete hard in many of those states.

Sanders said in an interview with CNN on Sunday that he believes the superdelegates will begin to look at the reality, and that is, in poll after poll, we are beating Donald Trump by much larger margins than is Secretary Clinton.

I think the momentum is with us, Sanders said. A lot of these superdelegates may rethink their position with Hillary Clinton. A lot have not yet declared. And then you have got superdelegates who are in states where we win by 40 or 50 points. I think their own constituents are going to say to them, Hey, why dont you support the people of our state, vote for Sanders?

Still, the plan is not exactly alarming the Clinton campaign, which revealed on Monday that it expects to have the nomination locked up by the end of next month.

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We are going to get to the point where, at the end of April, there just is not enough real estate for him to overtake the commanding lead that weve built up, Clinton pollster Joel Benenson said on a call with reporters.

By then, Wisconsin, New York and Pennsylvania will have voted. Even if Sanders narrowly wins those states, Benenson said, the delegate gap between him and Clinton will still be immense, without even factoring in superdelegates. And polling shows Clinton poised to do well in those contests.

Benenson also pointed out that Clinton has so far won about 2.5 million more votes than Sanders nationwide, which suggests that even if the superdelegates abandoned her in states where the Vermonter has done well, even more of them would have reason to stay put.

Asked about the Sanders plan to steal Clintons superdelegates, Benenson said when he heard about it, he kind of chuckled. He noted many of those pledged superdelegates are in Congress, where they have known Bernie Sanders for years, and he argued if they had any inclination to side with him, they would be saying so.

Benenson compared Sanders advisors announcing that superdelegates were poised to side with him to former President Nixon declaring on the evening of the 1968 election that a secret peace plan with Vietnam was in the works -- a peace plan that never materialized.

There is no indication folks have flipped, Benenson said.

Sanders strategist Tad Devine said that while we dont have 300 superdelegates waiting to go to Bernie tomorrow, the campaign is confident that a strong showing in the next few months will have scores of them reconsidering their support for Clinton.

She has emerged as a weak front-runner, Devine said.

evan.halper@latimes.com

Twitter: @evanhalper

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Marco Rubio asks California to pull his name off the ballot

Former Republican presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida has officially asked the California secretary of state to remove him from the June 7 presidential primary ballot.

Thus far, Rubio is the only former GOP candidate who has asked California to remove his name. Rubio made the request, in writing, to Secretary of State Alex Padilla.

Rubios request could help Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, both of whom desperately need to make up ground against GOP front-runner Donald Trump.

Read More
Behind the counter of Tortilleria San Marcos in Boyle Heights, news that lawmakers and unions had arrived at a deal that would boost Californias minimum wage to $15 was greeted with relief, then anxious arithmetic.

At the register, Sandra Carrera, 38, of Los Angeles cant make enough on minimum wage to cover $1,050 in rent and bills each month, so she sells party supplies to make up the difference. But that income has dwindled. A wage hike couldnt come soon enough, Carrera said.

In the kitchen, Miguel Sanchez, 43, of Highland Park puzzles through a similar math problem as he makes tortillas with masa-caked hands. After rent and bills, his income from two minimum-wage jobs leaves him about $440 to buy food and take care of his wife and two young daughters.

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The increase would give him some breathing room, but he doesnt plan to quit his second job.

Will the cost of things go up? Are employers going to cut back hours because they cant afford it? I worry, Sanchez said.

If the Legislature approves it, the $15 minimum wage deal would set a statewide standard at a time when unions and other groups have been demanding that local governments boost wages.

Los Angeles and San Francisco are among the cities that have already agreed to increase the minimum wage over the next few years. But other municipalities have expressed little desire to join them, prompting some to wonder if businesses would move to avoid the higher pay requirements.

Backers of the state deal say it would end this patchwork approach and prevent the chaotic economic competition between cities that some have feared.

The deal, which would boost Californias minimum wage to $10.50 an hour next year and then gradually to $15 by 2022, was reached after lawmakers were threatened with two union-sponsored initiatives that would have raised the minimum to $15 on faster timelines  one of which recently qualified for the Nov. 8 statewide ballot. Numerous statewide polls showed voters would approve such a hike, and Democratic presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton have both endorsed a union-led nationwide push for a $15 minimum wage.

Last year, the city and county of Los Angeles adopted a $15 minimum wage plan that will take effect by 2020, two years sooner than the state deal proposes. Cities such as Long Beach, Santa Monica and Pasadena adopted similar timelines, but the majority of the countys 87 cities havent followed suit.

The proposal would create a much more uniform minimum wage, said Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl.

Im happy to see that there wont be a conflict between two different initiatives and that the Legislature is doing this for the state without any kind of a ballot fight, Kuehl said.

Lawmakers could approve the deal as early as this week.

Sandra Carrera, 38, who works the register at Tortilleria San Marcos in Boyle Heights, says a wage increase cant come soon enough. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

On Sunday, both employers and employees were trying to calculate how the higher wage would affect them. And in some cases, the answers were different.

Selwyn Yosslowitz, co-founder of Marmalade Cafe, which has seven restaurants across the Southland, said he already operates on slim profit margins and hes concerned about how even a gradual increase in the higher minimum wage would affect his bottom line.

Waiters, some of whom earn up to $35 an hour with tips, will receive a significant raise in hourly compensation, Yosslowitz said. Cooks, managers and hostesses already making $15 an hour or above could demand raises as well. Yosslowitz supports a fair wage but said the proposed statewide hike has him thinking about how to re-engineer his menu and his labor force.

First you have to raise prices, otherwise youll be out of business, Yosslowitz said.

Hes thinking about cutting the number of busboys he employs  giving servers their bussing duties  and coming up with menu items that require less labor.

In Koreatown, restaurant owners said the previous state minimum wage hike from $9 to $10, which took effect in January, has already had economic consequences.

Fifteen dollars. I cant believe it, said So Young Jin, owner of Lees Noodles in Koreatown.

During Jins morning supply rounds, the chatter at the markets was dominated by discussions of struggling business owners, downsized kitchens and reduced staffing. Some waiters and cooks are working second and third jobs because their employers were forced to reduce their hours, Jin said.

After Januarys wage increase, Jin tried to keep her prices the same, but she was recently forced to raise the prices of some menu items by a dollar.

Every time I go to the market, I hear about this restaurant closing, that restaurant having a hard time, Jin said.

Though the federal minimum wage has remained at $7.25 an hour since 2009, more than a dozen states have passed minimum wage increases since 2014, according to data from the National Employment Law Project. Experts say the success of the wage push across the country is tied to the newfound cachet of income inequality as a political issue.

In California, more than 5 million low-paid workers, or 38% of the states workforce, could receive an average pay increase of about $4,000 each, according to Michael Reich, a labor researcher and professor at UC Berkeley. Reich calls the price increases for the states consumers moderate and said the policy wouldnt substantially change Californias employment picture.

Jiwon Park, 22, a server at Lees Noodles and one of Jins employees, is worried about prices going up as well. But in the meantime, a higher minimum wage means more money for textbooks and ESL classes, groceries for his mother and a chance to save up and start his own restaurant or store someday. He said the statewide wage hike that took place in January has already made a difference for him.

Its a dollar, Park said, but if you work 50 hours, its $50. If you work 500, its $500.

ruben.vives@latimes.com

victoria.kim@latimes.com

shan.li@latimes.com

frank.shyong@latimes.com

Times staff writer Geoffrey Mohan contributed to this report.

------------

FOR THE RECORD

March 28, 11:55 a.m.: An earlier version of this article said San Diego was among the cities that have agreed to increase the minimum wage over the next several years. The San Diego City Council voted to increase the minimum wage, but that action was blocked by referendum, and the issue is on the June ballot.

------------

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Updates from Sacramento
Im Christina Bellantoni, and todays Essential Politics gets your week started with a look at the big numbers in California.

59%

Thats the percentage of Californias vote Hillary Clinton held over both Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz in hypothetical match-ups posed by the USC Dornsife/Los Angeles Times poll.

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80%

The percentage of Sen. Bernie Sanders voters who told pollsters they would cast ballots for Clinton in November.

David Lauter gets to the heart of what the figures suggest about the race, where Clinton holds a modest 45% to 37% lead over Sanders. Those findings show the reality underlying the still-heated rhetoric of the Democratic primaries: By contrast with the civil war that divides Republicans, Democrats in the countrys largest state have begun to coalesce behind their front-runner.

Then theres the Republican side.

37%-30%

Thats Trump versus Cruz in the Republican primary among registered voters.

36%-35%

Thats Trump and Cruz among the most likely voters identified in the USC/LAT poll, a key distinction that is going to matter a lot come June 7, as Cathleen Decker reported for our Sunday front page.

Decker sees the Republicans as living in two worlds: One for Trump supporters, the other for supporters of everyone else.

3

Thats the number of possible scenarios for how this Republican nomination brawl could end, as explained by Mark Z. Barabak.

Finally, a number thats going to matter a lot to the 5 million people in California who are considered low-wage workers.

$15

Thats what the minimum wage would be boosted to by 2022 under a deal lawmakers in Sacramento struck with labor unions. John Myers, Liam Dillon and Melanie Mason scooped over the weekend that the compromise means voters wont be considering the question at the end of an already crowded ballot on Nov. 8.

But the possible boost has some fearing theyll be put out of business.

As the Metro staff reports for todays front page, some restaurants are saying this minimum wage hike would mean they would be forced to rethink what they serve and how many people they employ.

As the deal unfolds, keep an eye on our Essential Politics news feed for the latest from Sacramento and breaking news on California politics.

THE SANDERS TRIFECTA

Sanders pulled off huge caucus wins in Washington state, Alaska and Hawaii Saturday, but even after those victories, Clinton holds a lead of more than 260 in the count of pledged delegates to the Democratic nominating convention, not including her lead with superdelegates  party leaders and elected officials who can vote as they choose at the convention.

As Lauter cautions, the 260-delegate lead is a big one  bigger than what then-Sen. Barack Obama amassed over Clinton in 2008.

You can follow the delegate race here.

Were tracking news from both primaries all day via Trail Guide, and make sure you are following @latimespolitics.

TOBACCO MEASURES DELAYED

Weeks have passed since the Legislature approved a package of anti-smoking bills, and they still havent landed on Gov. Jerry Browns desk for his signature. Patrick McGreevy reports that tobacco industry lobbyists are calling the delay strategic, making the argument that political gamesmanship stands in the way of a referendum to overturn the measures.

HOLIDAY PARDONS

Just before Easter, Brown again issued a spate of holiday pardons. The governor has long embraced a tradition of granting clemency around holidays. This time he pardoned 59 people, most of whom were convicted of nonviolent crimes. Last Christmas, Browns highest profile pardon was for actor Robert Downey Jr., who spent time behind bars in the late 1990s after a series of drug-related offenses.

HIGH-SPEED RAIL KEEPS MOVING

Foes of high speed rail just didnt have enough money to get their initiative to divert funds for the bullet train to water projects qualified for the fall ballot, Myers reports.

Ralph Vartabedian explains that had voters approved the plan, it would have delivered a virtual death blow to the $64-billion bullet train project by taking away the biggest source of its funding. Whats more, the California rail authority is facing hundreds of millions of dollars in potential change orders and other prospective cost increases on the first 29 miles of the bullet train system, state and private contractor documents show.

CRUZING TO THE O.C.

Weve been reporting about Cruz headed to Los Angeles next week for a series of fundraisers. Hell also appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and we wouldnt be surprised if he added a rally to start his campaign ahead of Californias June 7 primary.

The most interesting thing about Thursdays big event at the Pacific Club in Newport Beach is that former foe and now booster Jeb Bush is expected to attend, according to a copy of the invitation.

Other major players attending the $1,000-per-ticket fundraiser are Carly Fiorina, California Rep. Dana Rohrabacher and Paul Laxalt, the attorney general of Nevada.

CLINTONS DAY IN L.A.

Seema Mehta spent the day with Clinton as she hopped between two Los Angeles-area fundraisers and an appearance on Jimmy Kimmels show herself.

While on the show, Clinton railed against the laxness of campaign finance laws, calling the Citizens United decision by the Supreme Court wrong.

We have to raise money. I raise a lot of money at events and I raise a lot of money online, but there should not be these huge loopholes for corporations and billionaires to just put as much money as they want to and not even have to tell you who it comes from or really disclose very much at all, Clinton told Kimmel.

The former secretary of State will be back in Southern California for a cocktails and dinner fundraiser at the home of George and Amal Clooney on April 16. To be a co-host of the event, donors must give $100,000 per couple, according to a copy of the invitation. Regular attendees must pay $33,400 per person.

Also that day, the Clooneys will host a conversation with Clinton, along with Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, at the home of Jeff and Marilyn Katzenberg. That event costs $353,400 per person.

TODAYS ESSENTIALS

-- Heres the full transcript of Sanders at the Los Angeles Times.

-- Federal prosecutors investigating the possible mishandling of classified materials on Clintons private email server have begun the process of setting up formal interviews with some of her longtime and closest aides. Thats an indication that the inquiry is moving into its final phases but isnt over, all but guaranteeing that the investigation will continue to dog Clintons presidential campaign through most, if not all, of the remaining presidential primaries.

-- Chris Megerian documented a running collection of Sanders T-shirts in Seattle.

-- Ro Khanna, who is challenging Democratic Rep. Mike Honda (D-San Jose), submitted 30 times as many valid signatures as the congressman to qualify for the ballot. It saved him the $1,750 filing fee and gave him yet another bit of momentum heading into the June 7 primary.

LOGISTICS

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Gov. Jerry Brown, lawmakers and leaders of two major labor unions held a news conference Monday in Sacramento to unveil details of an agreement that would raise Californias minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Heres what we know  and dont know  about the proposal and the politics behind it.

Why a minimum wage increase now?

The simple answer is that the politics were right. Two different labor unions vowed to put the issue on the Nov. 8 statewide ballot, and one of those initiatives officially qualified for the ballot last week. The governor and lawmakers have been quietly working the last few weeks on a proposal that the unions would find good enough to abandon their ballot plans. Neither of those initiatives would have allowed for temporary pauses in the wage increase, one of Browns long-standing objections.

Its important to note that the minimum wage debate is also a key element of the Democratic presidential race as the campaigns arrive in California ahead of the June 7 primary. Both Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton support raising the federal minimum wage, though progressive groups have criticized Clinton for not embracing the $15-an-hour level but stopping at support for a $12-an-hour nationwide wage.

What happens next in Sacramento?

Now that the minimum wage proposal has been formally introduced, both houses of the Legislature could act quickly to approve it and send it to Brown for his signature. An Assembly committee hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, and final legislative action in both houses could come on Thursday.

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What are its chances of passage?

Probably pretty good. Democrats control both the state Senate and state Assembly by substantial margins and the party has long identified the minimum wage as a key issue. State lawmakers approved the last wage increase in 2013.

That being said, a key question is how many business-aligned Democrats raise objections. A sizable portion of the Assemblys 51 Democrats consider themselves part of what they call the mod caucus, a group that has proved more fiscally cautious than their more liberal colleagues. The minimum wage legislation will likely require a simple majority  41 votes in the 80-seat Assembly  to pass. If a substantial number of the mods balk, the plan could be in trouble.

The odds are generally seen to be stronger in the 40-member state Senate, where the bill would likely need 21 votes in favor. Democrats hold 26 seats, and liberal legislators dominate more in the Senate than in the Assembly.

When would the minimum wage go up?

Californias statewide minimum wage rose to $10 on Jan. 1 and the new agreement would trigger further increases over the next six years. Heres the schedule outlined in a document obtained by the Los Angeles Times:

For companies with fewer than 25 workers, the increases would start in 2018 and end at $15 an hour in 2023.

Who benefits from the deal?

Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon said that about 5.6 million workers will benefit from the wage hike. In 2022, the annual income of a person working a full-time, minimum wage job at $15 an hour would rise to $31,200. In 2016, the annual income of a person earning $10 an hour in a full-time job is $20,800.

In addition, labor unions successfully won as many as three additional paid sick days for their members who work as in-home care providers.

What about concerns over the impact to the economy?

Those are exactly why Brown has resisted most plans for a minimum wage increase introduced in the Legislature. The tentative agreement allows a governor to hit the pause button on all of the scheduled increases except the one in 2017, but would require that governor to show either a decline in statewide job growth or new estimates of state budget deficits.

The proposal also makes a concession to small businesses, allowing those with fewer than 26 workers an additional year to raise wages.

Does action in Sacramento guarantee that there wont be a minimum wage hike on the November statewide ballot?

No. Labor unions have spent millions of dollars gathering signatures, and they want to see the final details of the minimum wage agreement before standing down. The $15 an hour initiative that qualified last week doesnt have to be formally withdrawn from the ballot until late June.

But the deal is widely seen as being far-reaching enough to gain the support of the unions, who then wouldnt have to spend tens of millions of dollars on minimum wage political campaigns this fall. Democrats will no doubt applaud that, as it means those unions may then use those campaign dollars for other causes  including a closely watched effort to extend temporary income taxes on the most wealthy.

john.myers@latimes.com

Follow @johnmyers on Twitter, sign up for our daily Essential Politics newsletter and listen to the weekly California Politics Podcast.

ALSO:

Deal reached to raise minimum wage to $15

Lawmakers forced to choose: Raise California's minimum wage, or leave the issue to voters

How pay for the lowest wage earners has turned into a national fight

Cities want to raise the minimum wage. But it's complicated

Santa Monica votes to raise its minimum wage

Updates from Sacramento
The domes and arches etched into Yosemites famed granite cliffs may seem frozen in time, but in reality theyre constantly moving.

The dramatic rock formations were formed as layers of rock peeled away from the mountainside, like an onion. The flakes remain attached at a few points but are completely hollow in the middle. If you were to pound on one with your fist, youd hear an echo.

In Yosemite, these precarious attachments  geologists call them exfoliations  fall at a rate of one a week, on average. Most often, they collapse because water repeatedly freezes and thaws in the cracks, destabilizing the cliffs. Sometimes they fall apart during an earthquake.

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Other times though, rockfalls happen on sunny days with no sign of rain or seismic activity. Now geologists from the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Park Service have found a potential cause for the seemingly spontaneous rockfalls: heat.

As the temperature rises from morning to afternoon, the thin outer layer of rock moves ever so slightly away from the cliff, then returns as the evening cools.

A pair of geologists collected evidence for this idea in the parks Royal Arches, a cliff overlooking Yosemite Valley not far from the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly known as the Ahwahnee Hotel). For 3.5 years, Brian Collins of USGSs landslide hazards program and Greg Stock of the park service monitored a 19-meter-tall exfoliation that clings to a near-vertical cliff.

Collins and Stock climbed alongside the flaking rock and installed three crackmeters behind the slab to see how much it moved throughout the day. The sensors, wedged in place by scissor jacks, measured the strain on a taut wire and were able to detect movements as slight as 0.001 centimeters.

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The scientists also installed a variety of temperature and other weather gauges.

Their measurements revealed that a 20-metric ton wall of granite can move about one centimeter a day.

We look around the landscape and we see thousands and thousands of these flakes and we have to assume theyre all moving, Collins said. Theyre kind of breathing.

As the cliffs inhale and exhale, the tips of the cracks weaken. Over time, the cracks slowly open s wider and the stress from the heat can prompt the rock to fall.

Heat not only moves the rock, it deforms it. Using lasers, the geologists observed a phenomenon known as thermal bowing, in which the center of the slab bulges outward as the exterior heats up while the interior remains cool. As the cracks get longer, the stress on the points where the slab is still attached grows larger. This further separates the slab from the cliff.

The effect is significant enough for climbers to notice, Collins said. Climbers will scale a particular route in the morning, leaving their hardware for securing ropes embedded in the wall. When they return in the afternoon, they notice their gear has shifted in some way.

The results, published Monday in the journal Nature Geoscience, offer a potential explanation for the spontaneous summertime rockfalls that occur not only in Yosemite, but also in mountain ranges in Japan, France, Brazil and Switzerland, the authors wrote.

NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >>

Park officials maintain a database of all rockfalls in Yosemite since 1857. Usually weather and earthquakes cause the rocks to fall, but there have also been cases when tree roots jostled the rocks loose or lightning struck the cliffs. A few years ago, the park service had to move a campground because of the risk of rockfalls.

For many of the 925 incidents, too little information was recorded at the time to determine a cause. In about 200 other cases, the rockfall was well documented but the cause remained unclear.

The geologists found that 15% of all rockfalls with no recognizable cause occurred in the hottest hours of the day, between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., and during the hottest months, July, August and September. It may not sound like much, but if these rockfalls had occurred randomly, only 6% of them would have happened during these times.

All of a sudden we can say, Well, maybe the thermal stress factor had something to do with it, Collins said.

Even normal swings in temperature over the course of a day or season are enough to trigger rockfalls. That realization should inform the way officials view the risks associated with living or camping near such formations.

Rockfalls do not always need an extreme event like an earthquake or rainstorm to occur, wrote Valentin S. Gischig, a geologist at the Swiss Competence Center for Energy Research, in a commentary accompanying the study.

Rockfalls induced by temperature fluctuations should be considered in rockfall hazard assessments  and not just for the famous granitic cliffs of Yosemite, but for inhabited mountain regions throughout the world, he added. Possibly, as the climate warms in the coming decades, thermally induced rockfalls may become even more important to hazard assessment and cliff erosion.

Although the study authors didnt examine long-term data, Collins said its reasonable to expect that rising temperatures would affect Yosemites cliffs.

If you continue to heat things up, these sheets could expand even further, he said.

Mostly, Collins said the study offers a new perspective on the parks beloved mountains.

The sun and the temperature are enough to make the rock move up there, he said. Its just kind of a neat thing that I think people dont think about.

Follow me on Twitter @seangreene89 and like Los Angeles Times Science & Health on Facebook.

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Spotting an alligator in Florida is a lot like spotting cattle in Texas. You dont need to look very hard because theyre everywhere. Theres even a toll road nicknamed Alligator Alley where the 150-million-year-old reptiles can be seen lolling alongside the highway.

I didnt realize how common they were until I visited Floridas Everglades National Park, where I saw them hiding in grasslands, trolling for prey in ponds and snoozing in the sun on park trails.

It wasnt always this way: The American alligator nearly disappeared from the landscape in the 1950s, the victim of hunters and the massive Florida housing boom that robbed them of their habitat. Fortunately, conservationists intervened, and the gator became an Endangered Species Act success story.

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Read the series: Celebrating our national parks

Of course, this is what Everglades National Park is all about: conservation. Its a story of life struggling to stay in balance, a place where people have affected the habitat and its residents and is now working to protect them.

The 1.5-million-acre park, third in size in the continental United States (after Death Valley and Yellowstone national parks), protects one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.

Its unique mix of tropical and temperate plants and animals includes more than 700 varieties of plants, 300 bird species and 27 kinds of snakes, as well as endangered species such as the manatee and panther.

Yet attacks by humans and nature threaten this giant ecological carnival.

Thats one of the reasons I visited recently: The survival of a host of animals hangs in the balance here, and I wanted to see as many of them as I could.

It didnt take long. On my first morning in the park, I spotted a wood stork standing at the edge of a pond. The long-legged, 3-foot tall bird is the only member of the stork family that breeds in the U.S. Formerly on the endangered list, it was downgraded to threatened in 2014; it looks awkward on land but soars like a raptor in the air.

Less than an hour later, I saw an American crocodile sunning itself on a boat launch near the Flamingo Visitor Center at the far southern end of the park. The 1,000-pound creeper glared at me before sliding back into the sea.

 Touring the Everglades.

No other wilderness area in the United States is quite like the Everglades; it doesnt have lofty mountains, high glaciers or acres of conifers. Instead, visitors find a River of Grass, a name coined by early Native American inhabitants and conservationists to describe the wetlands that stretch more than 100 miles through the south-central part of the state.

That river makes it possible for crocs, gators and hundreds of other animals to exist. As a matter of fact, park rangers say, virtually every animal here is dependent on its water. Thats why Everglades National Park exists; it was the first park created to protect a threatened ecological system. Of all U.S. national parks, it alone holds three world designations: International Biosphere Reserve, World Heritage site and Wetlands of International Importance.

The Buttonwood Canal goes from Flamingo Visitor Center to Coot Bay Pond, one of several kayak and canoe trails in Everglades National Park. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )

Its also a surprisingly beautiful place encompassing the shallow, pale-blue waters and islands of Florida Bay, dense mangrove forests, towering palms, endless marshes and a savanna-like river of grass.

I started my wildlife safari in Miami, driving 40 miles south to the main park entrance (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center and Park Headquarters) near Florida City. From there, a park road winds south to Flamingo at the edge of Florida Bay. Along the way, I found excellent overlooks and boardwalk-style trails that penetrated the swamps and marshes. In Flamingo, I hopped on a boat for a look at the marine and bird life.

Two other park entrances offer additional views of the park. The Shark Valley Visitor Center, at the north-central edge of the park, has a two-hour tram tour that explores one of the parks major sloughs, with lots of opportunities to see birds and gators. At the northwestern-most edge of the park, check out the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, where you can catch a boat that will wind through the parks Thousand Islands region.

A group of ibis seen in Ten Thousand Islands in Everglades National Park. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )

Our naturalist guide, Daniel Wilson, pointed out graceful great blue herons, white pelicans that stood 5 feet tall, and flocks of cormorants and terns. But the highlight came halfway through our two-hour trip.

Its show time, folks, Wilson sang out. Everyone on stage for the dolphin number.

With that, a trio of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins skipped across the waves toward our boat, playing hide and seek in the wake as we sped through the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Dont I have the best job in the world? Wilson asked. I get to see this show every day. No one argued.

Daniel Wilson is a naturalist on the Ten Thousand Islands boat tour that leaves from the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times )

travel@latimes.com

Tips for visitors: How to get to Floridas Everglades National Park, and where to stay and eat

How to get there

From LAX, American and Delta offer nonstop service to Miami International Airport, and American, United and Delta offer connecting service (change of planes). Restricted round-trip airfare from $278, including taxes and fees. The Miami airport provides access to Everglades National Parks eastern gateway, near Homestead and Florida City, Fla. You can reach the parks Gulf Coast entrance in Everglades City by way of Southwest Florida International Airport near Fort Myers or by U.S. 41, which skirts the park to the north.

Best time to visit

Winter is considered the dry season; theres less rain and animals are easier to see because they congregate at watering holes. Also, temperatures are cooler, making a visit more pleasant. This year has been wetter than normal because of El Nino rains.

How to visit

Everglades National Park covers 1.5 million acres in South Florida so it can be a little daunting trying to figure out how to see it.

The main auto entrance is in Homesteads Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center on the eastern side of the park, about 40 miles southwest of Miami. The Royal Palm Area is about a mile from the Homestead entrance and offers ranger-led walks, camping, canoeing and kayaking and more. The park service says this is the place to go if you have only one hour, and its Anhinga Trail is said to be outstanding for seeing wildlife especially wading birds.

From the main park road in this area, you can drive 38 miles to the Flamingo Visitor Center, the gateway to Florida Bay, which is at the southern end of the park and separates the mainland from the Florida Keys. Here you can canoe or kayak, and youre apt to see a crocodile, given that youre in salt water.

To see the northern part of the park from a different angle, travel west from Miami on U.S. 41, heading for Everglades City on the Gulf of Mexico side. Its about 85 miles from Miami, but you can break up the drive about halfway by stopping at the Shark Valley Visitor Center. There, you can take a two-hour tram ride on a 15-mile trail or rent bicycles.

At Everglades City, the Gulf Coast Visitor Center is the main access to Ten Thousand Islands, accessible by boat tour or canoe. The shallows teem with marine wildlife, especially babies.

Accessibility

Besides accessible visitor centers, the park has many paved trails, several of which are less than a mile long. Anhinga Trail at Royal Palm Visitor Center is a good place to see alligators and wildlife; at Pahayokee Overlook you can see miles of saw grass and cypress tree islands from an accessible ramp.

Know yourself

Watch for poisonous snakes and for Burmese pythons, which can be very dangerous. Also, an alligator sleeping in the sun on a trail may seem tame, but its not. Keep your distance.

What to wear

The sun can be brutal year-round; wear cool clothes, sunscreen and a hat. Long-sleeve shirts and long pants, plus mosquito repellent, will help you avoid Floridas notorious skeeters.

Sleep

Ivey House, 107 Camellia St., Everglades City, Fla.; (239) 695-3299, www.iveyhouse.com. Small, well-kept bed-and-breakfast and lodge near the Gulf Coast entrance to the park. Some rooms have shared bath; most are en-suite. Pool, excursions available.

Eat

Havana Cafe Restaurant, 191 Smallwood Drive, Chokoloskee, Fla.; (239) 695-2214, www.myhavanacafe.com. Three miles south of Everglades City. Open-air patio and indoor seating at this lively cafe specializing in Cuban cuisine, soft-shell crab and key lime pie. Open October-April.

More info

Everglades National Park, (305) 242-7700, www.nps.gov/ever

MORE NATIONAL PARKS

Series: Celebrating our national parks

Our favorite stories from national parks of the west

National Parks celebrates 100 years: Readers share their memories
A safari from West to East

The 410 units of the National Park Service are as varied as the United States itself and an incredible legacy for Americans. The Los Angeles Times Travel section continues a yearlong look at some of those units, why they matter and how the park service is working to tell this countrys story. More in the series 

To go where the wild things are, hit our national parks. Olympic in Washington and the Everglades in Florida tell contrasting tales of a treasure-trove of creatures but speak as one voice about why their survival matters.

OLYMPIC Olympic marmot (Marmota olympus) is unique to the Olympic Penninsula. The bushy-tailed rodent is about the size of a cat and known to be sociable and playful. (Getty Images/All Canada Photos) Olympic marmot Marmota olympus Unique to the Olympic Peninsula. Bushy-tailed rodent about the size of a cat. Sociable, playful. Best place to see: Above 4,000 feet and places where it's dry. Best time to see: July and August. Named for Theodore Roosevelt, the Roosevelt elk is the largest in North America. (Ted S. Warren / Associated Press) Roosevelt elk Cervus elaphus roosevelti Named for Theodore Roosevelt. Largest elk variety in North America. Dark brown head, light brown body. Males have antlers. Best place to see: Hoh Rain Forest, Quinault Rain Forest. They're resident elk so they don't wander too far. Best time to see: Early morning, late afternoon or twilight. The fisher (Martes pennanti) is a member of the weasel family, related to the otter. The carnivore was trapped for its fur and nearly went extinct by the 1920s and 30s in the Olympic Peninsula. It was successfully reintroduced in 2008. (Jim Kruger / Getty Images/iStockphoto) Fisher Martes pennanti Member of the weasel family, related to the otter, about the size of a cat. Carnivore. Trapped for fur; nearly extinct by the '20s and '30s in the Olympic Peninsula. Successfully reintroduced in 2008. Best place to see: You're lucky if you see one; they tend to be shy. Best time to see: Ditto. The best place to see the playful sea otter is the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, especially in quiet coves along the wilderness coast. (Mark Newman / Getty Images/Lonely Planet Image) Sea otter Enhydra lutris Hunted to extinction by the 1900s along the Olympic coast. Reintroduced in 1969 and '70 and have recovered. Adorable and playful. Best place to see: Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, especially in quiet coves along the wilderness coast. Best time to see: Any time but in quieter areas. A front view of an adult Black Bear, Ursus americanus, sitting in a field of green clover showing an aggressive posture. (Robert McGouey / Getty Images/All Canada Photos) Black bear Ursus americanus Smaller than a grizzly; females may weigh up to 400 pounds and males 600. But never approach one. And keep human food and trash away from them (and all animals). Best place to see: Lowlands to subalpine regions. Best time to see: Early summer at higher elevations when grass is greening. EVERGLADES An American alligator in the Florida Everglades. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) American alligator Alligator mississippiensis Lives in fresh water. Once endangered, but downgraded to threatened after extensive efforts. Snout is more of a U; you can't see its fourth tooth in the lower jaw (unlike a crocodile). Can grow to 19 feet. Best time to see them: Dry season (December-May). Best place to see them: Anhinga Trail from the Royal Palm Visitor Center near Homestead, Fla., and Shark Valley Information Center at the north end of the park. A crocodile gets some sun at the boat dock at Flamingo, Everglades National Park. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) American crocodile Crocodylus acutus Lives in brackish fresh water or saltwater. The Everglades is the only place in the world where the American croc and the American alligator overlap. Snout is longer and narrower than a gator's and its "grin" toothier. Males can reach 20 feet, females 12. Listed as endangered on the federal list but threatened in Florida. Best place to see them: Southern tip of the Florida peninsula Best time: Dry season, December-May. In chillier weather, they can often be seen sunning themselves. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times) Wood stork Mycteria americana Placed on the endangered list in 1984 but downgraded in 2014 to threatened. About 3 feet tall, with a black, bald head. Can snap its bill shut in as little as 25 milliseconds. Best time to see them: Winter Best place to see them: Along the Anhinga Trail, starting at the Royal Palm Visitor Center; Shark Valley Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) in Florida. (Mark Conlin / Getty Images) Florida panther Puma concolor coryi Endangered. Hunted almost to extinction by the '50s. Habitat loss today is a major concern; only about 100 remain in the wild. Carnivorous; they'll occasionally even eat gators. Best place to see them: Mature, dry upland forests Best time to see them: Dawn, dusk, night Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) as it breaks the surface of the Crystal River. (Stephen Frink / Getty Images) West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus Big (can be 9 feet long and 1,000 pounds), slow aquatic mammals also known as sea cows. Largely herbivores; definitely homely. Can stay under water for as long as 20 minutes. Listed as endangered in 1967; may come off that list soon. Best place to see them: Florida Bay, the southern part of Everglades National Park Best time to see them: Winter, when they head to and hang out in warmer waters

Less than a 30-minute drive from the rowdiness of downtown Miami Beach is a vast region of primeval wilderness that is every bit as raucous. One difference: Inhabitants walk on four legs instead of two, or they slither, belly crawl or fly.

The alligators, snakes, panthers and birds of Florida's Everglades National Park  mysterious, unique and creepy though some may be  attract and repel us. Scientists say our brains are hard-wired to respond to other animals; as we evolved, our survival depended on recognizing creatures that could harm us or that we could cook for dinner.

Animals are a major attraction of our national parks, which house a veritable Noah's ark of wildlife. Visitors can see a diversity of large mammals, such as grizzly bears and moose that live in Yellowstone National Park and Alaska's Denali National Park, as well as small life forms, such as the colorful algae and anemones that subsist in the coastal tide pools of Washington's Olympic and California's Channel Islands national parks.

But there is trouble in paradise.

In Yellowstone, for instance, conservationists protest the annual winter roundup and slaughter of hundreds of bison that have made the mistake of stepping across park boundaries. Local ranchers say the bison will infect their livestock with the disease brucellosis, damage property and graze on grass that should feed their cattle instead.

At California's Mojave National Preserve, there's concern that a proposed solar project may destroy the habitat of desert tortoises and bighorn sheep. And in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park, where hunting is allowed on hundreds of acres within the park, environmental groups recently filed a pair of federal lawsuits to stop the practice.

Our nation's parks are at a crossroads, says the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Assn., a million-member organization that works to "protect and preserve the nation's natural, historic, and cultural heritage for future generations." The group urges action and advocacy: "It is up to each of us to determine which path our parks take."

Almost everyone agrees there are no easy solutions. Meanwhile, some wildlife species struggle to survive, and our national parks strive to shelter them. Among those classified as endangered, threatened or vulnerable:

Bald eagles, threatened in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, mostly recovered elsewhere

American alligators, removed from the endangered list in 1987

American bison, listed as vulnerable

California condors, endangered

Florida panthers, endangered

Lynx, threatened

Manatee, endangered

Red wolves, endangered

Sea otters, threatened off California and Alaska

The Florida panther's situation is critical. Fewer than 100 are said to exist in the wild; Everglades' rangers estimate that only a dozen live in the park. Habitat encroachment and destruction are big problems for many species, especially panthers.

So is pollution. In Florida, agricultural runoff created high levels of mercury, which affects every level of the food chain, including fish, raccoons and alligators. A panther found dead in the park had mercury levels so high that they would be fatal in humans.

Invasive species also pose a huge threat. In the Everglades, it is literally a snake in the grass: the Burmese python. More than 100,000 of the snakes, which can grow to weigh as much as 250 pounds and to be as long as 16 feet, now slither through the sloughs and swamps of South Florida.

Officials say the snake became a problem in two ways: Once pet owners tire of the exotic pet  manageable at a foot long but now grown into a monster  they often dump them in the Everglades. Another source: Hurricane Andrew in 1992 destroyed reptile breeding facilities, unintentionally setting free an unknown number of the constrictors.

The pythons lurking in the Everglades kill raccoons, bobcats, rabbits, foxes and even deer. To draw attention to the issue, the park service schedules python hunts; 106 were bagged in the event that ended last month.

And not-so-exotic species  humans  have put animals at risk. Sea otters and fishers, members of the weasel family, found in Olympic National Park, were hunted nearly to extinction.

Climate change also puts America's national parks in peril, causing the loss of iconic plants such as the Joshua trees that are the namesake of California's national park in the desert about 130 miles east of Los Angeles. Without the trees, insects, birds and animals that depend on them for survival will also perish.

Scientists say climate change threatens thousands of other species too. One British study predicted that 15% to 37% of Earth's plants and animals will have populations so small by 2050 that extinction is certain.

To get a look at the problems plaguing our nations' animals, I visited Everglades and Olympic national parks, at the opposite ends of the country. They couldn't be more different. Olympic is known for its lush, 50-shades-of-green rainforests, glacier-topped mountains and handsome Roosevelt elk. Everglades is recognized for sweeping vistas of wheat-colored sawgrass and testy alligators.

A bald eagle snatches a fish from the waters of Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park one recent morning during a break from the rain. (Daniel A. Anderson) (Daniel A. Anderson)

Park superintendents at both told me one of their biggest worries are their endangered and threatened species.

"Our mission is to protect each of these species and to sustain the habitats and ecosystems that support them for future generations," said Sarah Creachbaum, the Olympic National Park superintendent.

Olympic's problems are different from those of Everglades', which is hamstrung by development that surrounded it as Florida grew to become the third most-populous state in the U.S. Olympic's isolation at the northwestern corner of the continental United States has saved it from some of these stresses.

Olympic also had a major recent success as the site of one of the world's largest dam removals, restoring habitat for fish and wildlife. Two dams on the Elwha River were demolished in 2011 and 2104, allowing salmon to migrate again and forming estuary habitat for Dungeness crabs, clams and other species.

But climate change is shrinking the glaciers on the park's lofty peaks and swallowing the habitat of its wildlife, which includes 29 species of freshwater fish and 70 types of Pacific salmon and steelhead, including the threatened bull trout.

I didn't see a bull trout when I visited Olympic nor a Florida panther when I was at the Everglades. But I loved seeing Olympic's big Roosevelt elk and the Everglades' shy manatees.

I saw them while I still could. Will generations to come be as lucky?

11 U.S. national parks where the wild things rule Here are 11 more national parks noted for their wildlife. What you'll see will depend on the weather, season and the animals' behavior. Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming Home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states, with 67 species. Notable for its large mammals (bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, mountain goats, mule deer, pronghorn and white-tailed deer) and large predators (black bears, Canada lynx, coyotes, grizzly bears, mountain lions, wolverines and wolves). Info Glacier National Park, Montana Core of one of the largest remaining grizzly bear populations in the lower 48 states. Also mountain goats, elk and lynx. Info Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Moose, bison, elk and bears. Info Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado Bighorn sheep, a symbol of the park, move to lower elevations in late spring or early summer. Also elk, moose, beaver and yellow-bellied marmot. Info Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee The American black bear, symbol of the park, is perhaps its most famous resident. Also Salamander Capital of the World, with 30 species. Info Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Good bird watching; most noticeable native animal is the nn, or Hawaiian goose, the state bird. It is endangered, as is the uau, or the Hawaiian petrel, and the Hawaiian hawksbill turtle. Info Virgin Islands National Park, U.S. Virgin Islands A snorkeler's delight, with three of the world's seven species of sea turtle  green, hawksbill and leatherneck  as well as 500 species of fish. Info Saguaro National Park, Arizona Unusual animals, some of which can only be found in southern Arizona. Roadrunners, horned lizards, Gila monsters, kangaroo rats and collared peccaries seen regularly. Info Denali National Park, Alaska First national park created to protect wildlife. Home to 39 species of mammals  caribou, moose, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves are the big five  and 169 species of birds. Info Channel Islands National Park, California Diverse community of marine mammals such as seals and sea lions and whales and dolphin either breed on the islands or feed in the surrounding waters. Also an important breeding area for birds. Info Pinnacles National Park, California Only NPS unit with release site for captive-bred California condors. Currently manages 32 free-flying condors. Info

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Additional Credits: Digital design and production: Sean Greene.

Wildlife photo credits: Marmot: Getty Images/All Canada Photos; Roosevelt elk: Ted S. Warren / AP; Fisher: Jim Kruger / Getty Images/iStockphoto; Sea otter: Mark Newman / Getty Images/Lonely Planet Image; Black bear: Getty Images/All Canada Photos; Alligator, crocodile and wood stork: Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times; Panther: Mark Conlin / Getty Images; Manatee: Stephen Frink / Getty Images
As families buried their children and doctors tended to scores of seriously wounded, the Pakistani military on Monday vowed a major operation to avenge a suicide bombing at a crowded public park in the eastern city of Lahore.

Officials raised the death toll in the Sunday evening bombing to 72 people, including at least 25 children. The explosion occurred as the park was packed with families celebrating Easter, among them members of Lahores Christian minority, although the vast majority of casualties were Muslims. About 300 more were injured.

People who were injured in a suicide bomb attack are hospitalized in Lahore, Pakistan. (Omer Saleem / EPA)

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What was the crime of these kids, whether they were from Christian or Muslim families? said Muhammad Imtiaz, 32, whose brother-in-law was killed in the bombing and sister remained unaccounted for. Two of his nephews were injured.

Pakistans powerful army seized the initiative from the civilian government, with military officials saying that soldiers and paramilitary forces would conduct a full-blown operation against militants across the populous eastern state of Punjab, particularly in southern areas that are believed to be extremist strongholds.

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Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban militant federation, claimed responsibility for the bombing and said it targeted Christians, who make up less than 2% of Pakistans population of 182 million. Officials said at least 14 Christians were among the dead.

In five operations conducted following the blast, security forces arrested an undisclosed number of suspects and recovered a huge cache of weapons and ammunition, said the armys chief spokesman, Lt. Gen. Asim Bajwa. Pakistans Dawn News reported that investigators had learned the identity of the bomber and had arrested three members of his family for interrogation.

Terrorists have assassinated my sons and daughters in this war and, God willing, we will wipe them out from this country, said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who hails from Lahore, Pakistans second most populous city.

NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >>

It was not the first time that Pakistanis have heard such resolve from their leaders. In December 2014, following a massacre at an army-run public school in the northeast that left 150 people dead -- most of them children -- the government and military launched a harsh crackdown against militants that included reinstating the death penalty for terrorism suspects.

A man carries an injured child to a hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, on Sunday. (Arif Ali / AFP/Getty Images)

Pakistan has since put more than 320 people to death, including many death row inmates whose cases were unrelated to terrorism. Militant violence is down overall, but many Pakistanis believe the governments policies have not made them safer  particularly as the Pakistani Taliban and its offshoots continue to wage headline-grabbing attacks against civilians.

After Sundays explosion, which took place in a parking lot near a set of childrens swings at the expansive Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, Imtiaz rushed to a hospital to search for his sister and her family, who had been at the park. He found a scene of chaos, including the mangled bodies of children and medical staff tending to injury victims in overflowing corridors.

There were bodies everywhere, said Imtiaz, 32. I saw blood on the floor of the hospital while dozens of injured were crying. They were horrible scenes.

It was the second major attack against Christians in Lahore in less than a year. Last May, Pakistani Taliban militants attacked two churches in Lahore on same day, killing at least 15 Christians.

Peter Jacob, a Lahore-based Christian human rights activist, said the Christian community took precautions in the week leading up to Easter Sunday and that government forces had provided security to major Christian neighborhoods in the city. But witnesses said the park was a soft target, with scant security on Sunday evening.

The government and Christian community were vigilant during Holy Week  but terrorists somehow had information about vulnerable areas, Jacob said. Instead of hitting Christians in their neighborhoods, they attacked them at public places.

Pakistani rescuers and officials gather at a bomb blast site in Lahore, Pakistan, on Sunday. (Arif Ali / AFP/Getty Images)

Analysts said the attack was also directed at Sharif, who is from Lahore, and aimed at demonstrating that militants retained the capacity to stage deadly attacks despite nearly two years of military operations against their hideouts in Pakistans tribal areas.

Politically the attack hurts Nawaz Sharif the most, said Hassan Askari Rizvi, an independent security analyst in Lahore. The attack also means that terrorists groups still have a strong network in cities like Lahore.

Many Lahore residents rushed to donate blood, resulting in long lines at city hospitals. Television channels broadcast footage of families observing funerals and of investigators wearing face masks searching an amusement park ride that was near the blast site.

The whole country is in a state of shock, said Rasul Baksh Rais, a political scientist at the Lahore University of Management Sciences. That these people can be so heartless and so cruel that they would kill children and women playing in the park  its really shocking.

Sahi is a special correspondent. Staff writer Bengali reported from Mumbai, India.

shashank.bengali@latimes.com

Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia

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As two dozen policemen looked on, 25 giant tanker trucks were loaded up with water from a small reservoir in rural western India.

Escorted by police vehicles, the tankers filed down the dusty road about 12 miles to deliver the water to Latur, a city of 500,000 people whose municipal water facilities long ago ran dry.

The high security seen here on a scorching day recently was one of the clearest signs of the severity of the water crisis unfolding in drought-stricken western India.

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With water taps running dry in Latur, 250 miles east of Mumbai, city authorities have had to enlist tankers to deliver water to residents for the last month and a half. The tankers have sourced water from surrounding areas, including Dongargaon, prompting opposition from residents of rural communities who say they too are suffering from scarcity and should not be giving their water to others.

When tankers first came to fill up at Dongargaon, residents attacked the trucks, prompting Latur officials to deploy police to secure the water delivery. After brawls also broke out at water distribution points elsewhere in Maharashtra state, authorities in Latur this month took the rare step of imposing a curfew barring people from gathering around water collection sites in the city.

Latur is in the middle of a parched farming region known as Marathwada that has been reeling under a four-year drought so severe that hundreds of farmers have committed suicide just in the last few months. Officials say about 30 people have died in the region this year trying to collect water, including two girls who drowned in wells.

Last month, residents in Latur swarmed an incoming water tanker. Umesh Gaikwad, 39, who had been appointed by city administrators to help manage the water delivery, suffered cardiac arrest while trying to pacify the mob. Five days later, he died at a hospital.

Poor water management took his life, Gaikwads brother told reporters.

A few days later, a 55-year-old woman collapsed while standing in line to fill her water jug.

NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >>

Ravindra Jagtap, a local journalist, said the scarcity of water and mismanagement by local officials have triggered fights between residents of different towns and villages.

The immature manner in which the water crisis is dealt with makes clashes inevitable, Jagtap said.

India, where almost 76 million people lack safe drinking water, has long seen such fights. Latur has received piped water only once a month for the last few months. In February, the citys main public hospital had to stop performing surgeries for three days because of the lack of water.

At one distribution point in Latur, residents from children to the elderly lined up for more than five hours one day recently to collect water. Some sat in motorized rickshaws they rented to ferry water jugs as their children slept in the vehicles.

Some people cut the line, others pushed and shoved. Fights broke out, residents cursing one another.

My life has been consumed by water, said Sorna Mali, a middle-aged woman, waiting in the line. We have to think twice before taking a sip of water even in this scorching heat.

When the tanker finally arrived, people pounced, some climbing atop the truck.

Initially water was supplied every eight to 10 days, but in the last two weeks the water distribution has become even less frequent as nearby reservoirs have run dry. In February, people briefly held two local officials hostage over water disputes. About 600 businesses have closed operations in the city because of the lack of water.

Some better-off residents have begun to purchase water directly from private suppliers. Pramod Mundada, the owner of Sunrich Aqua, the largest bottled water plant in the area, said many private suppliers peddle untreated water that could make people sick.

Helpless people end up buying adulterated water, Mundada said.

The situation is likely to worsen as India heads toward the summer, experts said.

It would not be surprising if the civil strife intensifies over the next two months, Jagtap said.

Parth M.N. is a special correspondent.

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They called him Papa Noel  Father Christmas  and not only because of his thick beard and stocky build.

He was also the generous sort, providing advice, logistical aid and travel expenses to his proteges  mostly young Belgians of Moroccan descent harboring an identity-affirming, if potentially fatal, obsession: to go off to Syria for jihad.

That fateful journey became a rite of passage for scores of disaffected youth in the Belgian capitals working-class Molenbeek district, just across an old industrial canal from downtowns shabby-chic beer joints and trendy cafes.

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Molenbeek, now notorious worldwide as a launchpad for young Belgians who ventured off to Syria and were killed or returned home to wreak havoc, is where this pseudo-Santa, Khalid Zerkani, plied his trade.

Last weeks attacks on the airport and metro in Brussels  along with revelations of a foiled terrorist strike in France  have focused renewed public attention on Belgian-based militant recruiting networks and the singular case of Zerkani, now serving a 12-year prison term for his enlistment efforts. Belgian authorities have labeled the radical but charismatic preacher the nations most proficient recruiter of extremist foot soldiers.

Mr. Zerkani has corrupted an entire group of youth from Molenbeek, a Belgian federal prosecutor, Bernard Michel, said in February, urging that the court increase his sentence to 15 years.

Last week, a former Zerkani confederate, Reda Kriket, was arrested outside Paris in connection with what authorities called a plot in advanced stages to attack France. Kriket, 34, a.k.a. The Frenchman, had been convicted last year in absentia of being an operative in Zerkanis Belgian jihadist pipeline.

He was part of a terrorist network that planned to strike France, French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said on Thursday of Kriket, a former resident of the Brussels district of Ixelles.

Zerkanis case, and a separate prosecution of members of a now-disbanded militant group called Sharia4Belgium, put a spotlight on the underground recruiting networks that helped make Belgium a focal point for Syria-bound militants and a hub for both last weeks attacks in Belgium and Novembers strikes on Paris.

About 500 Belgians have traveled to Syria to join militant factions, according to various estimates, the largest per-capita representation among any European nation.

The extent and brazenness of the recruiting process highlighted how Belgian authorities were slow to recognize the threat. After last weeks bombings, Belgium officials have come under withering criticism for not having done more to prevent attacks arising from homegrown militants. Two Cabinet ministers offered to resign, acknowledging that mistakes had been made in the run-up to last weeks attacks.

We thought for too long that rationality would prevail over madness, said professor Brice De Ruyver, director of the Institute for International Research on Criminal Policy at the University of Ghent. We thought it would stay limited to only a few. And we have severely underestimated the recruiting power of a few hate preachers and people who rally kids with immigrant backgrounds to their cause.

Authorities say the Morocco-born Zerkani, 42, ran his loosely structured operation from underground mosques and other inconspicuous havens in Molenbeek, cultivating petty criminals and other marginalized men and women, occasionally sharing the cash from sundry illicit endeavors. Prosecutors said Zerkani incited his charges to theft and burglary, ripping off cellphones, laptops and cameras in and around Brussels train and bus stations.

A cynical guru is how a Belgian court labeled Zerkani last year.

During the trial last year, Zerkani denied that he was involved in violent jihad, insisting that he was a humble believer.

Im a pacifist person, he was quoted as saying in courtroom accounts. Im not Satan; I dont control what others do.

Belgian authorities began investigating the Zerkani network in 2012, but it took almost two years for police to begin roundups of participants, a delay that led to criticism of Belgiums counter-terrorism efforts. During the two-year period, many Zerkani associates traveled freely between Europe and Syria, testimony showed.

In his heyday, Zerkani was a familiar figure in the gritty Maritime district of Molenbeek, where he would often be surrounded by a clique of admiring young men, according to testimony and press accounts here.

Among his suspected proteges was Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the former Molenbeek resident and suspected ringleader of the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris that left 130 dead. Abaaoud, who appeared in Internet videos while in Syria exhorting fellow French speakers to join the fight, was killed in a police shootout outside Paris on Nov. 18.

He was said to be a high-ranking operative in the external operations branch of Islamic State, the militant group that took responsibility for last weeks Brussels attacks and Novembers mass killings in Paris.

Like Kriket, Abaaoud was convicted in absentia of terrorism-related charges in July in the broad Belgian prosecution targeting Zerkanis recruiting web. According to testimony, Abaaoud was one of Zerkanis young followers who helped spread the zeal of jihad around the neighborhood.

A report in De Standaard newspaper on Saturday cited court testimony from Abaaouds younger brother, Yassine, saying that their mother wasnt keen about her sons hanging around with Zerkani and his associates.

When my mother learned I had talked to them, she asked me to never do that again, said Yassine Abaaoud, whose shopkeeper family was relatively upscale by Molenbeek standards. She was afraid of them, called them les barbus, the younger Abaaoud added, using French slang for bearded ones, referring to the beards worn by many devout Muslims.

Among the most prominent suspects tried with Zerkani last year was Fatima Aberkan, 55, who took her two teenage daughters to Syria and was dubbed an exalted muse of jihadist ideology by the federal prosecutor. Belgian media labeled Aberkan the mother of Brussels jihad.

One of Aberkans sons was identified as a recruiter for Zerkani. Another was killed in Syria. She is appealing her conviction and eight-year prison sentence on terrorism-related charges.

Fatima Aberkan has jihad under the skin, said the prosecutor in the case. She has sacrificed much for the cause, including one of her sons. For many years, shes contaminated her entourage with her foul and harmful ideas.

Special correspondent Arthur Debruyne contributed to this report.

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As more information emerged about the men who detonated bombs in Brussels on Tuesday, it became clear that they were members of a militant cell that was also behind November's attacks in Paris that killed 130.

Here's a brief rundown of the major players involved in each attack, and the connections between the two.

LINKED TO BOTH ATTACKS

Najim Laachraoui | 24 | Dead

(Belgium Federal Police)

Laachraoui was one of the suicide bombers at the Brussels airport, a U.S. official with knowledge of the investigation told the Los Angeles Times.

Laachraoui was also suspected of helping plan the Paris attacks. He is believed to have made the explosives that were set off around the city and to have helped an alleged key participant in the attacks, Salah Abdeslam, during Abdeslam's four months on the run.

Laachraoui traveled to Syria in February 2013, and was on a list maintained by authorities to track Belgian citizens who had traveled there. He is known to have used fake Belgian ID cards identifying him as Soufiane Kayal while traveling in Europe. His DNA was found in houses in the Brussels neighborhoods of Auvelais and Schaerbeek that authorities believed were used in the Paris terrorism plot.

A U.S. official told The Times that Laachraoui had been on an American terrorism watch list.

Khalid El Bakraoui | 27 | Dead

(Interpol Handout)

Bakraoui died detonating a bomb in the Maelbeek Metro Station.

He is the brother of Brahim Bakraoui; both were Belgians of Moroccan descent. A U.S. official told the Los Angeles Times that the brothers had been on an American terrorism watch list.

Khalid El Bakraoui had been sentenced to five years in prison for his part in an armed carjacking, Belgian media reported.

He is also believed to have rented apartments used by the Paris attackers, according to Belgian media.

Salah Abdeslam | 26 | In custody

(AFP/Getty)

Abdeslam grew up in Belgium. A top suspect in last year's Paris attacks that left 130 people dead, he was charged with "terrorist murder" by Belgian authorities. After the Paris attacks, he was the subject of an international manhunt until March 18, when he was shot in the leg and arrested in a police raid. He is being held in isolation in a Belgian jail.

A French prosecutor said Abdeslam had planned to detonate a suicide bomb at Stade de France on Nov. 13 but backed out at the last minute.

He was a childhood friend of Abdelhamid Abaaoud, the suspected mastermind of the Paris attacks.

LINKED TO BRUSSELS ATTACKS

Brahim El Bakraoui | 29 | Dead

(Interpol Handout)

Bakraoui is the brother of Khalid El Bakraoui and was a Belgian of Moroccan descent. He died in the suicide bombing at the Brussels airport, along with Najim Laachraoui.

He had served part of a nine-year prison sentence -- handed down in 2010 -- for his participation in an armed robbery during which a police officer was injured. It was unclear why he was released before completing his term.

In 2015, Bakraoui was deported from Turkey on suspicion of being a foreign fighter involved in the conflict in neighboring Syria. Turkish officials have said they notified Belgium, raising concerns that Belgian officials overlooked warning signs.

Belgian officials downplayed his centrality to the Brussels plot. He's only one of the perpetrators, and not even the most enterprising one, Justice Minister Koen Geens said. He was not the mastermind of this affair.

In a trash bin at a flat in Schaerbeek after the Brussels bombings, investigators said, they found a laptop containing a kind of last testament from Bakraoui.

I don't know what to do, I am in a hurry, read the declaration. I am on the run. People are looking for me everywhere. And if I give myself up, I will end up in a cell.

Unidentified suspect | Likely still on the run

(AFP/Getty Images)

Investigators said one man escaped after abandoning his bomb at the airport.

An airport camera screen grab, made and released March 22 by the Belgian Federal Police, shows this man pushing a luggage cart and walking alongside two of the bombers in the Brussels Airport shortly before the explosions. Some media reports have taken to calling him the "man in white."

A man identified as Fayal C. was charged with terrorism offenses on March 26, and Belgian media reported that he was the surviving airport bombing suspect.

Authorities, however, never publicly alleged that the man was the third airport bomber. He was released on March 29 due to a lack of evidence, seeming to signal that the third airport attacker remains a fugitive and that the massive manhunt for him will continue.

On April 8, a French police official said this man is believed to be Paris attacks suspect Mohamed Abrini, who was arrested that same day in Belgium.

Unidentified suspect | At large

A possible fifth suspect was captured on closed-circuit TV film as he carried a large bag in the subway alongside one of the suicide bombers, according to Belgium TV network RTBF and French newspaper Le Monde.

LINKED TO PARIS ATTACKS

Abdelhamid Abaaoud | 27 | Dead

(AFP/Getty Images)

Abaaoud, the Belgian son of a Moroccan immigrant, was killed in a November police raid in France. He may have been the mastermind of the attacks in Paris. He has also been identified as a suspect in a variety of thwarted plots to attack churches, trains and police officers in Belgium and beyond.

In an active social media life since leaving Belgium for Syria in 2013, Abaaoud was first seen on the Internet as an online recruiter of Europeans. He boasted of the glory of jihad to an audience of disaffected young European Muslims like himself, and he taunted European officials for being unable to catch him.

"A Muslim should not fear the bloated image of the crusader intelligence," he said in an interview published by the Islamic State's in-house magazine in February 2015. "My name and picture were all over the news, yet I was able to stay in their homeland, plan operations against them, and leave safely when doing so became necessary."

Bilal Hadfi | 20 | Dead

(AFP/Getty Images)

Hadfi and two unidentified men blew themselves up outside the Stade de France in Paris.

Hadfi had also been living in Belgium but went to Syria in February 2015.

Brahim Abdeslam | 31 | Dead

(AFP/Getty Images)

Abdeslam died on the night of the Paris attacks when he detonated a suicide vest outside a restaurant. He lived in Belgium and was the brother of Salah Abdeslam. He is believed to have used the pseudonym Amine Choukri.

Brahim spent time in territory controlled by Islamic State and trained in the group's capital of Raqqah, according to what an activist group, known as Raqqah is Being Slaughtered Silently, told the Associated Press.

He reportedly grew up in the Brussels neighborhood of Molenbeek and, along with his brother Salah, owned a bar called Les Beguines.

Chakib Akrouh | 25 | Dead

Officials identified Akrouh as one of the attackers who opened fire at bars and restaurants in Paris on the night of the attacks there. He reportedly had ties to the Molenbeek neighborhood in Brussels.

Akrouh killed himself with a bomb five days after the Paris attacks during a police raid in Saint-Denis.

Foued Mohamed Aggad | 23 | Dead

(AFP/Getty Images)

Aggad attacked the Bataclan concert hall with two other suspects.

He lived in Strasbourg, France, and went to Syria to join Islamic State militants in late 2013, but managed to reenter France, French officials said.

Mohamed Abrini | 31 | In custody

(AFP/Getty)

Abrini grew up in the Brussels neighborhood of Molenbeek. Footage shows him at a gas station with Laachraoui two days before the attacks in Paris. They were driving a black Renault Clio, the same car that was used in the attacks.

He was arrested in Belgium on April 8, Paris police officials confirmed. He is also believed to be the man in the hat who was last seen leaving the Brussels airport after the double explosion there.

Omar Ismail Mostefai | 29 | Dead

(AFP/Getty)

Mostefai attacked the Bataclan Concert Hall in Paris with two other men armed with assault rifles and explosive vests. He was born near Paris, and neighbors where he lived in Chartres reported that he started becoming radicalized about five years before the attacks.

Mostefai had reportedly been on a watch list as someone susceptible to radicalization but not yet requiring extensive surveillance. He was known to police as a small-time criminal whose offenses included driving without a license and insulting behavior toward authorities.

A senior Turkish official told the Associated Press that in 2013, Mostefai entered Turkey, a common pathway to Syria for foreign fighters hoping to join Islamic State. The newspaper Le Monde said Mostefai probably spent the winter of 2013-14 in Syria.

Samy Amimour | 28 | Dead

(AFP/Getty)

Amimour attacked the Bataclan Concert Hall with two other men. He was reportedly raised in a Paris suburb.

Amimour was one of three friends arrested in 2012 on suspicion of plotting to travel to Yemen or Afghanistan to take part in violent jihad, according to the French newspaper Le Parisien. He was put under judicial supervision but disappeared in the fall of 2013.

He apparently later made it to Islamic State-held territory, where he appeared in a video that showed several of the future Paris attackers standing behind captives who were either beheaded or shot.

"Soon on the Champs-Elysees," Amimour said in the video while holding a victim's head aloft, according to the Associated Press.

Unidentified | Dead

(AFP/Getty)

This unidentified man blew himself up outside the Stade de France stadium with two other attackers.

Fingerprints taken from one the suicide bombers outside the stadium matched those of a man who arrived in Europe via Greece in October.

A Syrian passport was found near the mans body, identifying the holder as Ahmad Al Mohammad, 25, from Idlib, Syria. It's not clear if the passport or the name was authentic. According to some reports, Mohammad was a Syrian soldier who died some time ago.

French authorities circulated this photograph asking for help identifying the dead attacker.

Unidentified | Dead

(AFP/Getty)

This man is a second unidentified attacker outside the Stade de France.

UPDATES:

9 a.m. April 8: This article was updated with information about the arrest of Mohamed Abrini.

This article was first published on March 28.
Efforts to impeach Brazils president accelerated this month as the country fell into full-blown crisis. But the congressional commission that will help decide Dilma Rousseffs fate has its own legal problems.

Of 65 members on the impeachment commission, 37 face charges of corruption or other serious crimes, according to data prepared for the Los Angeles Times by the local organization Transparencia Brasil.

The commission does not represent just the congressional faction that wants Rousseff impeached, but contains members of both the ruling coalition and the opposition.

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Brazils President Dilma Rousseff speaks during a visit to ground infrastructure works for the 2016 Olympic Games on March 23. (Eraldo Peres / Associated Press)

Of the 513 members of the lower house in Congress, 303 face charges or are being investigated for serious crimes. In the Senate, the same goes for 49 of 81 members.

Moreover, the data do not include any possible repercussions for the newest bombshell in the Lava Jato, or Car Wash, federal corruption probe. Brazils largest construction firm, Odebrecht, announced it would fully cooperate with investigation, and on March 23 the Brazilian Federal Police released a spreadsheet appearing to list payments from the company, whose CEO is currently jailed, to more than 200 politicians.

Its not yet clear what the legal consequences of this will be, says Transparencia. The group continues to update its database.

Rousseff herself, on the other hand, has never been formally investigated or accused of corruption, though she is enormously unpopular and blamed politically for the countrys deep recessions. She was head of the board of directors at Petrobras, the state-run oil company, when it was involved in the kickback scheme investigators recently uncovered in the Car Wash probe.

But to remove her from office, lawmakers are relying on the accusation that she broke budgetary rules to hide the size of the deficit, and they assert this is an impeachable offense.

The impeachment process was recently accelerated by Eduardo Cunha, speaker of the lower house in Congress, the Chamber of Deputies. The chamber appointed the impeachment commission, and if two-thirds of the chamber votes to impeach, the process moves to the Senate, which would ultimately decide Rousseffs fate.

If the process gets that far, Rousseff will have plenty of company in Brazils legal system. Here are some accusations prominent politicians face in Brazil:

The impeachment commission

Five members face money laundering charges, six face charges of conspiracy and 19 face charges of accounting irregularities. Thirty-three face either corruption or administrative misconduct charges. In all, 37 members have been charged, some with multiple offenses.

The man who would take over

Michel Temer, the vice president who will take over if Rousseff is impeached, is under suspicion due to claims that emerged in Car Wash investigations that he was involved in an illegal ethanol-purchasing scheme.

Rousseffs 2014 opponent

Aecio Neves, who narrowly lost to Rousseff in 2014, has been named in Lava Jato investigations and is named in the spreadsheet published last week. Documents obtained during investigations may also indicate his family maintains secret bank accounts in Liechtenstein.

The former mayor of Sao Paulo

Paulo Maluf, who is also a member of the impeachment commission, has been wanted by Interpol, and a court in Paris recently sentenced him in absentia for organized money laundering. This means one of the people helping to decide the course of impeachment here may not be able to leave Brazil, for fear of being arrested outside its borders.

Ministers and members of Congress in Brazil have the right to be tried by the Supreme Court, which is why Rousseff was accused by some of attempting to shield former President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva from prison by recently appointing him as her chief of staff. That appointment is still held up in the courts.

As Brazilian Atty. Gen. Jose Cardozo told foreign correspondents at a special news conference March 22, the right to trial by the Supreme Court does not equal immunity, as justices have recently sentenced politicians in other corruption scandals. But these cases often take years to be resolved by Brazils highest court.

Bevins is a special correspondent.

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Boston prosecutors dismissed a case on Thursday against four undocumented immigrants accused of raping a woman and beating up her boyfriend at knifepoint earlier this month.

The Incident

The incident took place on March 13 when an unnamed couple was walking home from a store in Framingham, Boston. That's when they allegedly ran into four Guatemalan natives -- Elmer Diaz, 19, Ariel Diaz, 24, Adan Diaz, 32, and Marlon Josue Jarquin-Felipe, 27, -- who they said were "intoxicated and stumbling," according to court records.

One of the immigrants made a friendly gesture and offered the man a beer. However, another made a sexual advance towards the man's girlfriend. After she refused his proposition, the victims say some of the men dragged her inside a nearby Hollis Street apartment, while one big guy held the boyfriend back.

The woman told police that Ariel, Elmer and Jarquin-Felipe then proceed to sexually assault her inside the apartment.

"They began carrying her against her will," prosecutor Susan Harris said during the men's arraignment. "She said she tried to stop them and had her feet down, but one of them picked her legs up and they carried her into an apartment."

After her boyfriend managed to get inside the apartment, he was head-butted several times by Ariel. He also says Ariel pulled out a large chef's knife and tried to slash him, saying, "I am going to carve you up and rape your girl."

Eventually, the boyfriend smashed one of the men with a beer bottle and was able to escape the apartment with his girlfriend, officials said.

"After we got out, we got down to the street and she was screaming, 'Police! Police!' and I was like, 'Don't stop, just keep running,'" said the man.

The Hearing

During a hearing held in Framingham District Court on Thursday, prosecutors dropped charges against the immigrants after new video evidence and witness statements were presented, casting doubt on the allegations.

"The prosecution saw a problem with the witnesses' stories, and brought it to our attention, as is their duty," said John Daly, an attorney representing one of the suspects.

After the evidence emerged, the couple refused to testify against the suspects and invoked their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. As a result, prosecutors were forced to dismiss the case. Without that testimony, "the commonwealth has insufficient evidence upon which to proceed," said Assistant District Attorney Joe Gentile.

The men were originally charged a host of crimes, including rape, indecent assault and battery, assault with a dangerous weapon, and kidnapping. However, after all of the charges were dropped, they were turned over to immigration officials.

"U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement intends to assume custody of all four individuals," confirmed ICE spokesman Daniel Modricker.

According to federal immigration officials, Ariel Diaz and Jarquin-Felipe were previously deported in 2014 before they illegally reentered the U.S. at some point.

 2015 Latin One. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Mexicans celebrated holy week this year by burning a papier-mache version of Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump in effigy.

All week long, town people in Mexico City gathered to roast the 10-foot tall, eyes wide, mouth agape creation of the man many Latinos have come to know and loathe as a modern day Judas.

"For Latinos here and in the U.S., he's a danger, a real threat," said Leonardo Linares, the 52-year artist of the Trump statute. a 52-year-old artist who built a Trump effigy over the past week in his Mexico City studio. "He's a good man to burn as a Judas."

Trump Pledges to Deport Immigrants

Trump has raised the ire of Mexicans across the world with his recent vow to instantly deport all 11 million immigrants now living in the U.S. if he is elected president. In addition, he has pledged to build a massive wall along the Mexican border to keep out immigrants.

Since announcing his candidacy last summer, he has also derided Mexicans as "rapists" and "criminals."

Besides earning himself the distinction of becoming the punchline in a stream of running jokes across much of Mexico, Trump has also drew heated criticism from several former and present high-ranking Mexican government officials, who warn his xenophobic rhetoric is damaging relations between the two countries.

"Latinos have contributed a lot to the United States," Linares said. "Trump's a buffoon. With him as president, the U.S. will lose a lot of credibility in the world."

Trump may do Worse Than Romney With Latinos

That already seems the case among immigrants already residing here in the U.S. A recent Gallup Poll found Trump is expected to attract even less of the Hispanic vote than 2012 GOP nominee Mitt Romney do four years ago, when he managed just 27 percent support.

The poll also found that a staggering 77 percent of Latino voters have an unfavorable view of Trump, compared to just 12 percent who seem in a positive light.

Before torching the Trump doll and blowing into apart amid chants of "death, death," Linares and company also lit a doll of President Obama with a cigar in his mouth and holding a Cuban flag.
Republican front-runner Donald Trump has grown his level of support in California, yet GOP voters in the state remain so at odds over his candidacy a quarter of them insist they would never vote for him in a general election.

A new USC Dornside/Los Angeles Times poll now finds Trump receiving 37 percent of the Republican primary vote, a significant uptick from where he stood the last time the poll was taken back in September.

The bombastic New York City real estate mogul is followed by Texas Senator Ted Cruz at 30 percent and Ohio Governor John Kasich at 12 percent.

A Quarter of GOP Voters vow not to Support Trump in November

Still, a staggering 25 percent of all GOP voters insist they would not vote for Trump in November and nearly one in three of Cruz's supporters echo that sentiment.

Meanwhile, Trump supporters widely view Cruz in the same dim light, with roughly half of them insisting they have an unfavorable impression of him.

The poll finds all the acrimony could spell trouble for Republicans when voters go to the polls on June 7, and could lead to resounding defeats for the GOP up and down the state's ticket.

Among California voters who view immigration as in a "crisis," Trump leads 48 percent to 29 percent, with just 8 percent for Kasich. For voters less concerned about the issue, Trump's level of support dipped all the way to just 27 percent.

Trump Supporter Believe Immigration at 'Crisis' Levels

Overall, roughly 60 percent of Trump supporters agreed that illegal immigration was either a crisis or at least a major problem, with just over half of them agreeing with him that all those in the country illegally should be immediately deported. Among all Republicans, only a third back mass deportations.

As for Trump's "Make America Great Again" mantra, 2 in every 5 voters who think the country's best years are behind it identify as Trump supporters, compared to 26 percent for Cruz. Among those sharing a more optimistic view of the nation, the two are deadlocked at 36 percent.

One in 5 Republicans also insisted they would vote for Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton over Trump in a general election matchup.
Bernie Sanders' campaign is gaining some traction lately as he racks up convincing victories over Democratic rival Hillary Clinton. The senator from Vermont is currently on a roll, besting his opponent in five of the last six contests.

Sanders' camp has been right all along and in so far as the recent voting is concerned. While they predicted that they'd fare poorly in the Southern states, they also expected for things to turn for the better as they head West.

The Vermont politician is currently riding high in his string of success that comes from the caucuses in Alaska, Hawaii and Washington. The majority of the three were all for Sanders last Saturday, as with Utah and Idaho last Tuesday.

He has gained more than 100 additional delegates over the past week and has created a dent in Clinton's lead, which now stands at 268. While the momentum is clearly on his side, can Sanders really win the nomination?

Sanders is Optimistic of his Chances

"What we showed yesterday is in fact the momentum is with us," said Sanders. "We think we're going to do well in Wisconsin. We think we got a real shot in New York. And then we go out to California. You go out to Oregon. That's the most progressive part of America."

Despite Clinton's big margin, the race is far from over, especially if Sanders can continue his magic in the upcoming contests. The District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have still yet to cast their votes, along with 18 other states. This accounts for more than a couple of thousand delegates still up for grabs.

The Odds Are Not in His Favor

Despite the fact that he was able to snag unexpected wins against Clinton, Sanders is still facing an uphill battle. For one, all of the last five states he won were all caucuses, but almost all of the remaining states are primaries, which Clinton has so far proven that she can win.

And while he is making some progress winning delegates lately, there is still the superdelegates factor that could prove to be a major roadblock for his nomination aspiration. Clinton has a big margin when it comes to these elected politicians and some high-ranking leaders of the Democratic party.

So, if Sanders hopes to ever get the nomination, he needs to start getting the nod from the superdelegates, as well, whose votes are not necessarily in concurrence with that of their respective constituents.

"It's a little awkward for a politician who happens to be a superdelegate to be voting against the winner of his caucus or primary," said Democratic strategist Steve McMahon. "But by their nature, these superdelegates are part of the political establishment and they have known the Clintons an awfully long time. They're still getting to know Sanders."
At least part of Donald Trump's boastful plan to "Make America Great Again" could lead to another recession if he is allowed to execute the mass deportations he has vowed to carry out.

Up until now, Trump has been scarce on details as to how he plans on turning around the country's economy, but he recently opened about when was the last time he thought the country was striking the right balance between defense and trade.

"If you look back, it really was, there was a period of time when we were developing at the turn of the century which was a pretty wild time for this country and pretty wild in terms of building that machine, that machine was really based on entrepreneurship," Trump recently reflected of the time around the 20th century and again immediately following World War II.

Trump Also Loved the Lated '40s and '50s

Trump also fondly recalled the "late'40s and '50s" as a time when he insists the U.S. was not to be messed with and everyone respected the country.

"We had just won a war, we were pretty much doing what we had to do," he added.

Trump has been just as adamant in vowing that a big part of his economic recovery plan for the country would include deporting all 11 million undocumented immigrants now estimated to be living in the U.S.

Study Finds Mass Deportations Would Lead to new Recession

His view has remained unchanged despite the findings in a new American Action Forum (AAF) study that concludes such an act would cost the country somewhere in the neighborhood of $400 to $600 billion over a 20-year period and ultimately reduce the overall size of the economy by a recession level of 5.7 percent.

The AAF report adds such steep costs would be dwarfed by the $1 trillion hit such a move would deal to the U.S. economy. Ultimately, all the machinations are projected to trigger a collapse easily on par with the Great Recession all over again.

Yet, there was Trump recently doubling-down on his mass deportation vow during a recent presidential debate in Houston, where he also reaffirmed his pledge to carry out the deportations early in his administration.

"They will go out," he said. "They will come back - some will come back, the best, through a process. They have to come back legally. They have to come back through a process, and it may not be a very quick process."

As for his view of when America was last great, Trump also failed to look upon the Reagan administration with much fondness.

"As much as I liked Ronald Reagan, he started NAFTA," he said. "Now Clinton really was the one that - NAFTA has been a disaster for our country, O.K., and Clinton is the one as you know that got it done."

The nearly quarter-century old North American Free Trade Agreement, signed by former President Bill Clinton paved the way for free trade between the U.S., Mexico and Canada.
Japan is now trending international after their whaling research killed 333 whales in the process. The Japanese four-ship whaling fleet returned on Thursday following their tour in the Antarctic Sea.

Japan's latest whaling hunt is found to be controversial as their fleet went home with a massive number of dead whales. According to Northern Star, calls for the Australian Government have been increasing as many urge to prevent Japan from further hunting. Australia is playing a key role in the launch of the case and the Australian Marine Conservation Society is demanded to file legal action against the country. ACMS Director Darren Kindleysides said that it must be ensured that 2016 would be the last year of Japan's so-called scientific whaling program.

Sunshine Coast Daily wrote that Australia is also urging other countries to participate in actively pursuing legal action against Antarctic whaling. Japanese authorities said that a fleet of whale hunting vessels went home to their port after three-months of expedition. Despite the ruling of International Court of Justice from two years ago, the latest trip was still be able to proceed though it was part of illegal hunt and must be needed to cease. Japan's fisheries agency reports that the hunt led them to capture 103 males and 230 female minke whales.

90% of these females are pregnant as reported by The Marshall Town. Representatives from Japan Whaling Association said a large range of information such as population, age, structure, growth rates and others are needed to manage and conserve of future whales. The 333 quote is said to be a third of average for Japan's annually hauled. But for now, it is the set maximum number of kills allowed by the International Whaling Commission (IWC) for research purposes.

Japan's program aims to have a total sample of 4,000 whales in the next 12 years. It also intends to resume commercial whaling.
A suspect was arrested for the death of Nelson Garcia, an environmental rights activist and a colleague of the slain environmentalist leader Berta Caceres, Honduran officials said Sunday. The two activists died in similar circumstance, gunned down.

Didier Enrique Ramirez, also called as "Electric" was arrested over the murder of Nelson Garcia, 39, who was shot to death stemmed from a dispute with landowners, according to the Guardian. The Honduran authorities said, Garcia was shot by at least two gunmen, closed to his home in San Francisco de Yoyoa region, 75 miles north of the capital Tegucigalpa.

Garcia just returned to his house, after helping evicted Indians to move their belongings, when the incident happened, San Francisco Chronicle reported. The said Indians were evicted from their squatting land near Garcia's house. Authorities said, Garcia's murder was not related to Caceres' case, considering it, "isolated" act of violence". Garcia was killed nearly two weeks after the death of his colleague, the award-winning environmental activist Berta Caceres.

Honduran Public Prosecutor said, Ramirez was waiting for Garcia to arrive, ambushing him while parking his car, according to Telesur. Officials had been under pressure to capture the murderers responsible for the deaths of Garcia and Caceres.

Garcia is among the member of the Council of Indigenous Peoples of Honduras or Copinh, an organization which also Caceres led until her death. Caceres, received death threats because of her work, however, she won the Goldman Environmental Prize in 2015.

Her efforts were recognized, in which she aims to prevent the construction of a $50m dam that threatened to displace hundreds of indigenous people. Her death sparked violent clashes between students and riot police, who fired teargas into the crowds at the University of Honduras.

But the organization that both Caceres and Garcia belonged to described Garcia's death as part of "the government's constant harassment" of Indian groups. Both activists were Lenca Indians and belonged to the Indian Council of People's Organizations of Honduras.
Indonesia's reputation for being a conservative yet tolerant country is now in deep waters as violent protest against the LGBT community is rising in the country.

Indonesia has experienced a dramatic increase of discrimination and hate towards the LGBT community. This turn of events has been a shocking moment to many Indonesians. In a Muslin predominant country, the LGBT groups have been constantly struggling to find its place in the community as the national conversation has been centered on violence and hate towards the third sex.

As reported by The Wall Street Journal, it began last January when Muhammad Nasir, the minister for research and higher education, criticized gay students for openly showing their sexuality at the University of Indonesia. The event came after the student rights group published a brochure that promotes LGBT counseling network.

The banning of television and radio programs that depict LGBT living normal lives and also banning men who appear feminine have been done by the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission. Indonesia's vice president also asked the United Nations Development Program to cut the funding of LGBT education groups.

According to Japan Times, the smartphone messaging app, Line, has also pulled its stickers that shows same-sex couples from their emoji store in response to an idealistic order from officials in order to prevent the spread of gay and transgender imagery.

Ryamizard Ryacudu, Indonesia's Defense Minister, said LGBT groups are attempting to brainwash everybody through a type of proxy war. He added that LGBT people are even more dangerous than nuclear war. The statements given by the Defense Minister was seen as offensive, setting alarming priorities from a defense minister, as per The Diplomat.

The hate war towards the LGBT has led to the creation of community hotlines and safe-houses. A former school in Yogyakarta, which was already closed, vowed to reopen and continue their work in a different location.

President Joko Widodo have been silent on the issue despite the call of several human rights group to stop the censorship and hate speech towards the LGBT community. Widodo has been basing his campaign on human rights and won the presidency with a large support from the LGBT community. Several Indonesians have been disappointed in Widodo's lack of action towards the issue.
Mar 28, 2016, 2:40pm ET

BMW to offer high-end X7

BMW\'s flagship SUV will be given the super-luxury treatment.

BMW will eventually launch a super high-end version of its upcoming X7 SUV, a top executive at the German automaker has revealed.

Speaking on the sidelines of the recent New York auto show, BMW sales head Ian Robertson confirmed to Automotive News that the company is working on a super-luxury version of its X7 flagship SUV. The luxed-out X7 will be part of BMW's new Grand Klasse strategy, or GKL for short, which will eventually include a range-topping version of the 7-Series sedan.

The X7 GKL is believed to be an answer to Mercedes-Maybach's upcoming GLS luxury SUV. Robertson didn't indicate if the top-spec X7 would wear a different name badge, or simply be positioned at the top of the X7 hierarchy.

Whatever the case, the X7 is expected to steer clear of BMW's Rolls-Royce luxury brand. Rolls will launch a utility vehicle of its own in the coming years, but that SUV, called Cullinan, won't share any components with the X7.

"Of course the quintessential luxury is still the [BMW-owned] Rolls-Royce -- we do not need a Maybach, Robertson said.

Few other details are known about the super luxurious X7, but it will retail for somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000.
Mar 28, 2016, 11:25am ET

Cadillac to move away from long-wheelbase cars for China

The company wants to engage younger buyers who want to drive themselves.

Cadillac is preparing to reposition its lineup for younger buyers in China, moving away from long-wheelbase vehicles geared for older businessmen.

General Motors' top luxury brand will opt for single unified designs that will be sold in all markets, including the US and China. Future models will bring a "right size" wheelbase, longer than Cadillac's current US-market cars but not quite as stretched as China-spec variants such as the ATS-L, chief executive Johan de Nysschen told Reuters.

Older businessmen have shown a preference for long-wheelbase vehicles, preferring to sit in the back while a chauffeur pilots the vehicle through heavy traffic. Younger buyers appear to be more enthusiastic to drive a car themselves.

The brand reports early success in targeting younger buyers, with Chinese owners averaging just 34 years old.

"In China, young buyers already dominate the luxury market," de Nysschen added. "It was far easier to begin to cultivate the desired positioning for the brand from the get-go."

The executive expects China to become Cadillac's top market in the coming years, eventually exceeding US sales. The company will be designing upcoming models with Chinese tastes in mind, potentially resulting in toned-down styling with a less angular look.
Mar 28, 2016, 5:13am ET

Ford to introduce facelifted Fiesta this fall?

The Euro-spec Fiesta will allegedly bow in the fall.

Italian media outlets are reporting that Ford will launch a revised Fiesta before the end of the year.

The updated model won't be entirely new because it will ride on the same platform as the model that's currently sitting in showrooms. However, both the hatchback and the sedan body styles will receive a sharper-looking front fascia that will borrow styling cues from the bigger Focus and the Fusion, and a redesigned rear end.

In Europe, the Fiesta lineup will be expanded with a range-topping trim level called Vignale that will stand out thanks to upscale features like chrome trim and leather upholstery with contrast stitching. Ford hasn't announced plans to sell its posh, Vignale-badged models on our shores, so there's no reason to assume we'll see the Fiesta Vignale here.

Omni Auto believes Ford's European division will drop the Fiesta's gasoline-burning four-cylinder engine because the EcoBoost three is markedly more popular among buyers. The ST model (pictured) will receive a boost in power, and buyers in Europe will have access to a 1.5-liter turbodiesel four-banger.

If the rumor is accurate, Ford will reveal the updated Euro-spec Fiesta in the fall. The U.S.-spec model could be shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show, or at next year's edition of the Detroit Auto Show.
Next Porsche Panamera to bow in Paris

Mar 28, 2016, 10:38am ET

Porsche will introduce its second-gen Panamera this September.

Porsche will unveil the second-generation of its Panamera sedan at this September's Paris Motor Show, a new report finds.

The news isn't exactly earth-shattering as prototypes of the new Panamera have been seen testing for the last few months. However, a Porsche official confirmed to Automotive News on Monday that the first all-new version of the sedan since its 2009 introduction will bow in Paris this fall.

The second-generation Panamera will usher in a new modular platform that will also underpin some Bentley vehicles. It's also rumored that the architecture could eventually underpin models for the Lamborghini and Bugatti brands, both of which fall under the same Volkswagen ownership as Porsche.

Porsche is working on an all-new V8 for the Panamera, but more efficient drivetrains  including a plug-in hybrid  will also be offered. A pure EV version of the Panamera is even a possibility. The Panamera will initially launch as a sedan, but a shooting brake model is also being developed. A coupe is also said to be in the works.

The Panamera was once a strong seller for Porsche  notching 29,030 deliveries in 2012  but sales slipped to 17,207 last year, making it the slowest selling vehicle in the Porsche lineup (Porsche counts Boxster and Cayman sales as one). The new sedan should reverse that course when it's launched in Europe later this year, and in China and the U.S. in 2017. The shooting brake and coupe will likely trail the sedan's launch by a year or two. However, it's possible that the Panamera shooting brake will be limited to the European market.
Press Statement

John Kirby

Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs

Washington, DC

March 21, 2016

The United States congratulates the Congolese people for their active participation in the March 20 presidential elections. Their enthusiasm and determination to register to vote and peacefully engage, despite many impediments, demonstrates their commitment to democracy.

We note numerous reports of irregularities that have raised concerns about the credibility of the process, including the media blackout during the polls, an imbalanced and restrictive media environment, significant disparity in access to state resources, a short timeframe for electoral preparations, and restrictions on freedoms of expression, communication, and association in the pre-election period. We urge Congolese authorities to restore communications and to complete the electoral process with accuracy, credibility, fairness, and transparency.

As the vote tallying continues, the United States urges the Congolese people to remain patient and avoid speculation. We ask all political leaders to renounce violence, call upon their supporters to remain calm, and seek to resolve any differences peacefully in accordance with existing laws and procedures.
An Allentown teen is accused of hitting a city officer with a car as he fled from police for the second time in the same day.

Alomar Wee-Ellis, 17, of the 400 block of West Tilghman Street, was arraigned as an adult Thursday on two counts each of aggravated assault and reckless endangerment, as well as fleeing police, simple assault and related charges from the St. Patrick's Day chase.

Wee-Ellis was sent to Lehigh County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail.

City police said Wee-Ellis had fled from police once on March 17, but officers located the car later in the day in the 700 block of South Woodward Street and began surveillance. Wee-Ellis started driving again, and three cruisers stopped him near Basin and Auburn streets, police said.

When Officer Kyle Pammer got out of one of the rear cruisers and started walking to the passenger side of the car, police said, Wee-Ellis backed the car up and struck Pammer in his upper legs as he jumped onto the trunk.

Wee-Ellis also allegedly hit a cruiser as he fled.

Wee-Ellis then put the car in drive and sped off, causing another officer to have to jump out of the way to avoid being hit, police said.

A chase ensued, with Wee-Ellis driving in the opposing lanes of traffic and the wrong way down one-way streets, as well as cutting off a firetruck responding to a call with its lights and sirens on, police said.

Wee-Ellis eventually lost control of the car in the 400 block of South 15th Street and crashed into a pole, flipping the car on its roof.

As officers arrived at the crash, Wee-Ellis was seen trying to get out of the car and was arrested, police said. Police said Wee-Ellis admitted he was the driver, and told hospital staff that he was high.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @SarahCassi. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
The story behind Easton's remarkable drop in major crime likely begins in 2006.

That year there was a spike in what the Uniform Crime Report calls Part 1 Offenses.

The city police department was in transition, with only a few more than 40 uniformed personnel on staff.

The city was changing as well, moving from a shell of its former retail self to an eventual destination for tourists and those looking for a good meal.

But drug crime -- and that translates into violent crime -- retained a strong hold in some of the neighborhoods.

As the department began to add young officers and the city government began to move toward financial sustainability, allowing the department to grow, things began to change, Chief Carl Scalzo said Friday morning.

In 2006, there were 1,713 crimes in the crime report's Part 1 category that includes murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, simple assault, burglary, theft, auto theft and arson.

By the end of 2015, that annual number had fallen to 661.

Looking at it in term of arrests, the number has fallen from 1,334 in 2010 to 613 in 2015, the report says. And in total calls for service, the number has tumbled from 15,332 in 2010 to 11,181 a year ago.

Uniformed personnel now surpass 60.

So there are more feet on the beat and less crime.

While the command staff provides "a platform," it is the "guys and girls on the streets and the detectives doing the work" that allows for crime statistics to drop, Scalzo said.

And those younger people -- some who now have eight to 10 years on the force -- were provided experience across the board, rather than being pigeon-holed into a specific part of the department, Scalzo and Captains Scott Casterline and David Beitler explained.

"They've been brought up with a different mindset," Casterline said.

Patrol officers now, for example, can apply for their own search warrants in some cases, execute them and perform the search. This frees up those in the criminal investigations and vice units to remain focused on crimes that require "heavy investigation" and allows patrol officers "to take a report as far as they can," Scalzo said.

That would have been rare before, Beitler said. Some officers went 30 years on the force without serving a warrant, Casterline added.

"We try to include as many officers in as much as possible," Casterline said.

And patrol officers now can seamlessly cross into a vice investigation, adding to the number of officers focused on drug crime.

"The relationship between patrol and vice is simply phenomenal," Scalzo said.

While the chief said the statistics "absolutely" indicate the city is now safer, they still don't present a complete picture. If a person is shot to death, the crime falls under murder, but doesn't show up on weapons offenses, since only the highest level crime in any incident is recorded. If a person is shot at, that's an aggravated assault, but not a weapons offense.

Breaking out figures for the city's West Ward -- which, after the Delaware Terrace public housing facility closed on the South Side, became the city's nexus of crime -- shows a drop from 354 major offenses in 2012 to 216 in 2015. Thefts, which are in that category, were well down and burglaries dropped from 82 in 2013 to 21 in 2015. Aggravated assaults are down from 21 in 2013 to 11 in 2015. Simple assaults were reduced from 40 in 2012 to 25 in 2015 -- which is up one from 2014.

Police plan to break out by sometime next week the Part 2 offenses in the West Ward, which will show if the weapons offenses -- which at 24 are just one down in the city from 2014's six-year high of 25 -- disproportionately impacted the West Ward.

Being that there were several calls for shots fired in 2014 and 2015 in the neighborhood -- which police say starts at Seventh Street because they patrol by sector, not neighborhood, while the city designates it beginning at Sixth -- statistics likely will prove that out.

But what the command staff wants to make clear is since Easton has a drug problem, it has a violent crime problem. It's not a war on drugs, it's a war on crime, Scalzo and Casterline explained.

And getting one dealer -- who may sell to 20 people a day -- off the streets is more efficient in solving the problem than arresting the buyers, they said.

That doesn't mean buyers aren't picked up, but far more resources go into getting the dealers either into jail or "uncomfortable" enough not to set up shop, Scalzo and Casterline said. And the end game is different as well, with treatment being the judicial goal with users, while punishment awaits the dealers, they said.

While not going into specific strategies, attacking crime means more foot patrols, more bicycle patrols, more car patrols and more appearances in schools and other community activities where the public can meet the police, the chief and two captains said.

In a four-square-mile city, it's not unusual for police to travel more than 200 miles in a single 12-hour shift, Beitler said.

"Just about every street in the city is patrolled every day," Scalzo said, while the captains added that often all the streets are patrolled several times a day.

Most city crime victims are either people who know each other -- domestic incidents, for example -- or people involved in a "high-risk activity" such as participating in the drug trade, Casterline explained.

"Absolutely," residents and visitors should feel safe, Scalzo said. "Is there crime? Absolutely. There's no chance that 661 gets down to zero. (But) in the city of Easton with the work the department does, there's actually no reason people should feel unsafe."

The city has changed, he said, but some still want to believe in its "rough and tough" past.

"It's our job to change that perception," Scalzo, who grew up in the city, said. "... Easton is a very different city than it was."

There are some things that keep police up at night, such as the alleged spree killer who is charged with two others in Easton's lone homicide from last year and the unintended consequences of a stray bullet.

But in a country where police are now often targeted and the duties are more difficult now than at any point in their careers, all three commanders said, Easton still gets qualified police applicants who have worked out well in recent years on patrol.

"It's really important that credit goes where it belongs," Scalzo said, again mentioning the patrol and detective staffs. "It's not an easy job."

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
The Pennsylvania SPCA has removed 40 live animals from a North Whitehall Township property and collected 30 dead chickens that didn't have access to food or water, the organization said in a news release.

The SPCA did not list the address or provide the name from whose home its "humane law enforcement officers" took the animals last week.

In addition to 32 live chickens, the SPCA officers, after serving a search warrant, also removed four quails, three cats and a rabbit, the news release said. A neighbor had alerted the organization of possible animal neglect on the property, the SPCA said.

The live animals collected Friday in the Schnecksville portion of the township were taken to the SPCA's Philadelphia headquarters, where they were to be examined by the veterinary team, the organization said. The SPCA will keep the animals until the owner surrenders them or the case is adjudicated, the organization said. The animals would then be made available for adoption or to rescue organizations, the SPCA said.

The investigation is continuing.

"We are the advocate for all animals throughout the region, including Lehigh County, expanding beyond dogs and cats to the health and well-being of chickens, rabbits and more," Pennsylvania SPCA CEO Jerry Buckley said in the news release.

Anyone with information on this case or any other involving animal cruelty can call 866-601-SPCA. Tips can be anonymous.

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
A helicopter crashed Sunday night in Pike County, Pennsylvania, and the pilot was found dead, according to the county coroner.

A search by rescue personnel in Monroe and Pike counties, aided by pinging of the pilot's cellphone, eventually led to downed helicopter in a wooden area near Route 390 in Greene Township, the Times-Tribune of Scranton and the Pocono Record report.

The helicopter flew from Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and was headed to an airport in Greene Township, Pennsylvania, the Record said. The first 911 call was about 9 p.m., the Record said.

The pilot was found dead at 11:54 p.m., National Transportation Safety Board spokesman Peter Knudson said. The helicopter was a Robinson R44 and an NTSB investigator will be on-site later Monday to begin a probe in the cause of the crash, Knudson said.

An autopsy is planned for Tuesday morning and the male pilot's name will likely be released soon after that, Pike County Coroner Chris Brighton said. Family is being notified, he added.

The identification process isn't to the point where the coroner's office can release the man's age or hometown, Brighton said.

"We're still putting that all together," he said.

It can't be said yet if the crash killed the pilot or if he suffered a medical incident beforehand, Brighton said.

No one else was on board, Brighton said.

The very mountainous property where the crash occurred is owned by Skytop, he said. Bad weather had yet to set in when the helicopter went down, he added.

The Federal Aviation Administration is also assisting the coroner's office in the investigation, Brighton said.

Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
Global carbon dioxide concentrations pass milestone

Rising temperatures and increasing acidification of oceans pose a threat to life forms that provide food and livelihoods to people all around the world.

(Oliver Berg/EPA)

By Thomas H. Pritchett and John A. Cigliano

Given the current press about 2015 and the first two months of this year being the hottest year on record, you would think the whole global warming/climate change "debate" was strictly over the temperature of the atmosphere. In reality, the issue is more than just average air temperatures. The increase in atmospheric temperature is also causing significant rises in ocean temperatures, and elevated CO 2 concentrations are causing a decrease of the pH of the oceans, an effect called ocean acidification.

More then 90 percent of the excess heat being absorbed by the Earth is being absorbed by the oceans. In the past few years scientists have discovered oceans had been absorbing more heat than normal and transporting that heat to deeper depths. Warmer oceans have multiple effects both on marine life and our climate, but we will just focus on marine life.

As oceans warm, marine life can move towards cooler waters, adapt in the evolutionary sense, or die off. Unfortunately, many organisms cannot move, and the rate of warming is so rapid that many organisms don't have time to adapt. We see this with coral bleaching. When ocean temperatures get too high for too long, reef-building corals lose the symbiotic photosynthetic protist, called zooxanthellae, that it needs to convert sunlight to nutrients for growth and survival. Also, pathogens spread into waters that once were free of them, often decimating these populations -- and affecting industries that depend on this marine life. The combination of warmer waters and such new pathogens has decimated the Long Island Sound lobster population and is now starting to threaten the Maine lobster fishery.

As for ocean acidification, every one-unit decrease in pH results in a 10-fold increase in acidity. It has clearly been demonstrated that there is a direct link between the pH in the surface water and the concentration of CO 2 above the water. CO 2 forms carbonic acid when it dissolves in water. Average surface ocean pH has declined by 0.1 units since the industrial revolution began and is projected to drop to another 0.5 units by 2100.

A decrease in pH affects every marine species that forms shells made from calcium carbonate. Such species range from oysters, clams and oysters to coral to microscopic plankton. Recent studies have discovered that ocean acidification is already having a negative effect on marine species and communities. And these effects have economic implications.

The Pacific Northwest oyster fishery is a case in point. In 2005, the production of hatchery-raised oysters experienced a precipitous decline that was clearly attributed to a decline in ocean pH. This decline put a 130-year, $84 million industry at risk, along with the 3,000 jobs it supports. Today, oyster hatcheries must monitor water quality to schedule production when water quality is good. Hatcheries have also developed new methods to counteract the lower pH. Incoming water is "buffered" so developing oysters are exposed to seawater of the proper pH. The fear of these fishermen is that there will reach a point where the ocean will become too acidic for any of their remedies to be effective.

The combination of warming waters and ocean acidification is devastating major reef systems world, including the Great Barrier Reef and the coral reefs of the Caribbean.

Possibly the most significant danger is the impact on the microscopic shelled zooplankton. These are the marine organisms, along with the phytoplankton, responsible for permanently removing CO 2 from the atmosphere; their calcium carbonate shells end up sinking down to the bottom of the ocean when they die. More important, though, these species are a significant link in oceanic food chains and the larval stage of many species that ecosystems and human rely on. Without them, ecosystems and fisheries will collapse.

In some ocean basins, such as the Indian Ocean, warmer surface waters have increased the stratification of the waters, decreasing the upwelling of nutrient-rich cooler waters from lower depths. This decreases the productivity at the lowest level of the oceanic food chain with a corresponding decline in the number of fish.

Of course, there is always the argument that ocean temperatures have been hotter and pH levels have been lower in the past. Over the hundreds of millions of the Earth's history, that has indeed been the case. However, whenever the oceans have undergone such drastic changes in such a short period of time, the results have usually been a major extinction of 50 percent or more of the species resulting in a major collapse of ocean ecosystems. Granted, ultimately the ocean ecosystems adapted to these changes and restored themselves, but this restoration process typically took a minimum of tens of thousands of years. Given the large percentage of the world's population dependent upon the ocean as a major source of food or their livelihood, is it prudent to risk another such major extinction of marine species with a business as usual approach to the burning of fossil fuels?

Thomas H. Pritchett, of Easton, is an instructor in Cedar Crest College's Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences. John A. Cigliano is a biology professor and director of environmental conservation at Cedar Crest.
When you hear of someone going viral on the internet it is normally as a result of something either incredibly funny or daft.

When you hear of someone going viral on the internet it is normally as a result of something either incredibly funny or daft.

However, Manorhamilton poet Stephen Murphy has bucked that trend with a thought-provoking piece that last week captured the imagination of the 15,000 people that saw it.

Speaking to the Leitrim Observer in his home in Lurganboy, Stephen was attempting to take in the fact that his video had reached such an audience in such a short space of time but there was no fear of him losing any sense of perspective as his three week old son is ensuring his feet remain very much on the ground.

The video of Stephen reciting his poem Was it for This? was recorded close to Lurganboy and was then uploaded to YouTube on Monday last, June 9.

In his five minute delivery Stephen questions much about the financial and political state of the country posing the question, was it for this?

The power of the internet meant it didnt take long for Stephens video to make an impact and the following morning he received a message informing him he had made Gerry Adams cry!

Understandably such a message left Stephen slightly puzzled but as he explained, the following morning he realised the Sinn Fein president had taken to Twitter to post Stephens video to his 57.6k followers and then tweeted, Stephen Murphy makes me cry!

Stephen, who studied English and poetry in Wales has been surprised by the manner in which his video hit a nerve with so many people. Having completed his college studies Stephen, like many others throughout the country found himself looking elsewhere for employment and he emigrated to South Korea where he taught English but always felt a longing to return to Ireland and especially north Leitrim.

I came back last May, I wanted to get back, there is something about it that cant be killed, its a magical island.

His comparison between the situation the people of Greece found themselves in and how the Irish reacted to the prospect of financial armageddon for the country is an interesting one.

In Greece people were out on the streets. Maybe its a language thing but we just left. I went to Korea and I felt guilty for leaving a sinking ship.

The life of a poet is not an easy one but Stephen takes great pride in his craft and has been humbled by the overwhelmingly positive feedback he has received.

It takes bravery to do what I do, he insisted, adding, It has been an emotional whirlwind all week. Everybody has been overwhelmingly positive, its great. The piece resonates with people but I put a lot of work in and take pride in it.

Its lovely when people come up and say I love what youre doing. It makes it worthwhile when someone says, I appreciate what hes saying.

While very appreciative of the positive feedback Stephen insisted his whirlwind week will not affect him saying, Its not in my nature to get carried away but it is lovely that people related to it because it is the way I feel about the island.

When discussing why he feels his poem has stuck a chord with so many people and it is obvious from reading the comments posted on YouTube that the response has been very favourable, Stephen quoted the late English poet Adrian Mitchell who said, Most people ignore most poetry because most poetry ignores most people.

It is clear that Stephen has a voice that is crying out to be heard and his rhythmic delivery is also something that quickly grabs the attention of the listener. Given the quick pace of its delivery it wasnt surprising when Stephen revealed he is close to completing an album of his work having collaborated with Drumshanbo based The Archaic Revival.

A conversation with Stephen reveals a man with a desire to question why the country suffered the economic collapse rather than simply accept it. If you would like to discover more of his work simply visit www.thesleepingwarrior.wordpress.com/publications or www.facebook.com/thesleepingwarrior

Click here to see Stephen reciting Was it for This?
LIFE is too short to spiralise a carrot, says cookbook author Valerie OConnor, who like her somewhat more famous counterpart Nigella Lawson, is against the notion of clean eating.

Yet there are plenty of nutritious, wholesome meals in her new book, Vals Kitchen  Real Food, Real Easy  without the modern, trendy food tags.

Im fundamentally opposed to the clean eating movement  it implies certain foods are bad, and that you are somehow dirty by eating them. Just call them something else. There are no spiralised courgettes in this book either, she says, with a laugh.

Neither is it laded down with expensive health food store items such as cacao or almond butter, though there are plenty of nods to current trends with a healthy dose of fat, such as coffee with butter. Thank God theyve been undemonised, she exclaims.

This 155-page production includes a mix of everything, from the nostalgia food of her childhood, to classics with an Irish twist, such as bacon and cabbage risotto, to another popular food trend of fermenting foods.

Its a new food movement, even though it has been around for about a thousand years. I have a lot of women and men in their 60s and 70s coming to my classes [in food fermentation] because they remember a time when you had to preserve foods, and didnt have processed foods.

Val moved away from her career as a press photographer some years ago to combine her passions of cooking and photography.

I always wanted to be a food writer, she told the Limerick Leader. But I was told you either had to be born wealthy or marry wealthy. I was neither. It was pig-headed determination that got me through.

After launching a blog about a decade ago about her efforts to put enough bread on the table for her two teenage sons as a single mother, Vals career took off, and she is now a regular contributor to The Irish Examiner and The Sunday Times.

Valerie will be launching her third work published by OBrien Press  the first two concentrated on bread  at OMahonys in the city on Tuesday, April 5 at 6.30pm.
A FORMER Dell worker who fraudulently claimed more than 19,000 in social welfare benefits has repaid just 195 a court has heard.

State Solicitor Aidan Judge told Kilmallock Court that Thomas Hickey of Limerick Road, Meanus claimed unemployment benefits between June 28, 2012 and June 6, 2014 even though he was working during the same period.

The defendant faces four charges which each carry a minimum fine of 1,250.

Mr Judge said Mr Hickey  who was paid a total of 19,120 in benefits - failed to inform the Department of Social Protection that he was working for Provident Financial Services Management at the time.

He told the court that he made admissions when interviewed by department officials but said the amount of money he had paid back to date was utterly unacceptable.

Mr Judge was critical of the defendant who, he said, only supplied details of his current earnings to the State shortly before the court case was called.

The summons was served last December and today is the first time we have been informed about his earnings, he said adding that the hard-pressed taxpayer remains at a loss as a result of his actions.

Solicitor Brendan Gill said his client, has a excellent work history and is taking the matter seriously.

He said he previously worked for Dell and was placed on a CE scheme after he was made redundant following the closure of the manufacturing facility in Raheen.

He said Mr Hickey is on a commission-based salary with and is willing to repay the outstanding monies at a rate of 50 per week.

He is just looking for time, he said adding that his income is relatively modest .

Mr Gill said his client believed he was entitled to work one day a week while claiming social welfare benefits.

It is not a flagrant breach, there was an element of confusion, he submitted.

Judge Marian OLeary adjourned the matter to May 17 next to allow the defendant submit a fully vouched statement of means.

She ordered that the documentation be supplied to Mr Judge in advance of the next court date to allow officials at the Department of Social Protection to forensically examine the figures.
LESS than a fifth of speeding prosecutions before a single sitting of Kilmallock Court resulted resulted in convictions being recorded.

More than 60 cases were before Judge Marian OLeary relating to detections on various dates last summer by both gardai and operators of GoSafe vans.

Over the course of almost 90 minutes, the judge heard evidence in relation to each individual detection - including the date and location as well as the speed of the offending vehicle.

The court was told that in each case a prosecution had been initiated as a Fixed Charge Penalty Notice had not been paid.

During one case, Judge OLeary was informed by solicitor Una Power that Judge Patrick Durcan in Clare is refusing to hear prosecutions relating to detections by the operators of GoSafe vans.

While acknowledging there is currently a case stated before the High Court, Sergeant Michelle Leahy said there is no requirement in the regulations for the operators of GoSafe vans to have ministerial warrants and that it was the State case that the prosecutions should proceed.

Judge OLeary indicated she was proceeding on the basis of the law as it is. A large number of cases were struck out after the accused person gave evidence, under oath, that they had not received notification in the post of the initial fine.

In one case, a woman who admitted driving 62kph in a 50kph zone said she tried to pay the 80 fine but that the forms were returned to her as she omitted her middle name.

Another woman said the notice arrived in a very nondescript envelope which she did not open as she thought it was from the Teaching Council. A young man who was caught driving at 63kph in a 50kph zone said he did not receive the initial notice until after the 56-day period to pay (the fine) had elapsed. I got the postman to sign it to confirm the date I received it, he said.

A number of cases were struck out or withdrawn due to difficulties surrounding the nomination of the offending driver by the registered owner of the vehicle.

One man, who works for a telecommunications company, said he had been informed by his employer that he would be receiving a fine and penalty points. However, he said the first paperwork he received was the court summons.

Another American woman who was driving a rental car at 71kph in a 60kph zone on the N20 said: I just got the notice to come to court.

She added she was not aware of the speed limit as she was new to driving in Ireland.

Another man who admitted driving at 118kph in a 80kph zone at Grange, Bruff said he had not been paying attention at the time.

However, noting his evidence that he did not receive the first notice Judge OLeary struck out the charge but commented that the speed he was travelling was motorway speed and ridiculous.

While most of those who were convicted were not present in court, one man who was present insisted he was not going to pay.

Denis Twohig of Lower Main Street, Tipperary Town admitted driving at 66kph in a 50kph zone on the R662 near Galbally on September 18, last. He said he was 24 hours late in paying the initial 80 fine and that when it was returned to him there was 50% added.

Mr Twohig was fined 120 by the judge and there were giggles in the courtroom when he declared he would not be paying. I have decided Im not going to pay any of it, under no circumstances will I pay one cent, he said.

Judge OLeary replied: Thats not a matter for today.

Editorial, page 18
THE family of a young man who tragically died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning have spoken of the excruciating pain his death brings every day, in the hope that other families are spared a similar loss.

Christopher Tiffer Morris, 30, lost his life while in Argentina, on May 31 last.

It is understood that a combination of the carbon monoxide that was produced by the shower in the apartment he was staying in, and a lack of ventilation, resulted in the deaths of both Tiffer and his friend, Munra Borghi.

Tiffers father, racing trainer Mouse Morris, mother Shanny, and her husband Bruree-based trainer Enda Bolger, are hoping that by speaking about their own personal experience during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, they will alert people to the seriousness of the silent killer.

The pain and tears we suffer every day is excruciating and will affect us for the rest of our lives, said Shanny.

It is not something that time will ever heal. People need to be aware of the seriousness of carbon monoxide poisoning. Dont think it will never happen to you or yours  it can happen to anybody, she emphasised.

Tiffer Morris was a healthy young man in the prime of his life. He was a regular visitor to Athlacca and had attended point-to-point festivals and cross-country rides in the village.

The qualified chef, who was originally from Fethard, County Tipperary, had worked in London for several years. He was having an amazing experience travelling around South America and intended on returning to Ireland to start up a business. He was also an accomplished drummer.

He had just performed on stage in Mendoza on the Saturday night. He passed away on the Sunday having come home from the concert. A friend found them, Shanny explained.

Tiffer was found lying on a bed. Shanny became aware of her sons passing early on June 2.

At 6am we were informed that a message was posted on Tiffers Facebook page asking for a member of his family to phone Mendoza urgently as there had been an accident, she recalled.

Trying to dial numbers when you know there is something seriously wrong is extremely difficult. Tiffers father, Mouse, managed to get through and spoke to Michelle Fernandez, in whose band Tiffer had performed. She broke the tragic news of his death.

Michelle explained that she had become concerned when she hadnt heard from either Tiffer or Munra since the concert, so went to the apartment to check on them.

She knew they were in, as she could hear their phones ringing and could see their wallets on the sitting room table, through the window, said Shanny. Michelle called the police, who arrived promptly, and they broke down the door to discover the tragedy.

The lives of Mouse, Shanny and Enda, and Tiffers only brother Jamie, have been changed forever. As indeed have those of Munras family.

Shanny admits that she cries every single day for the loss of her son and sleep comes with great difficulty. The panic attacks when you realise its true are overwhelming, she said.

The carbon monoxide in the shower was so strong that it killed Munra within minutes. The carbon monoxide gas crept from the bathroom through a corridor to the bedroom and killed Tiffer in his sleep, is what we understand. The police investigation is ongoing, Shanny pointed out.

Carbon monoxide has no smell, taste or colour and is sometimes called the silent killer.

When it is inhaled, it causes chemical asphyxiation. Although feeling unwell, victims of carbon monoxide poisoning become so disoriented that they can no longer decide what to do next, including being unable to exit the building or call for assistance.

Being affected while asleep is the most dangerous situation as the victim will not wake as a result.

This is what happened to Tiffer, Shanny explained.

Tiffers family are urging people to install carbon monoxide alarms in their homes. They cost less than 20 and take seconds to install.

PhoneWatch is the countrys only provider of monitored household carbon monoxide alarms.
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Skeleton of Synemporion keana in situ on the floor near the lower end of Mahiehie Cave.

Hawaii just doubled the number of known land mammal species that are native to the islands, thanks to the discovery of a number of fossils representing a tiny bat named Synemporion keana.

Found in 13 cave sites over five islands  Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Maui and Hawaii the fossils described in a new study represent at least 110 individuals and reveal a bat that was notably different from the only other land mammal species that is endemic to Hawaii  the Hawaiian hoary bat.

In fact, combinations of the new bat's physical features were so unique that the scientists determined it was a new genus in the bat family tree, as well as a new species. [Photos: The Creatures That Call Lava-Tube Caves Home]

S. keana probably measured about 2 inches (5 centimeters) long, with a skull length of about 0.4 inches (1 cm), the scientists reported.

Many of S. keana's bones were found in the same locations as hoary bat fossils, suggesting to scientists that the bats shared habitats. But the new bat came to the islands much earlier than the hoary bat, arriving about 320,000 years ago, the researchers found, while the hoary bat's arrival dates back no more than 10,000 years.

The bats coexisted for thousands of years until S. keana went extinct about 1,100 years ago, likely because of human colonization and the introduction of invasive species, the study authors suggested.

Skeleton of Synemporion keana embedded in secondary mineral crust on the wall near the downslope end of Mahiehie Cave. (Image credit:  American Museum Novitates)

Encrusted in crystals

It was 1981 when entomologist Francis Howarth, one of the study's co-authors, discovered near-complete skeletons of the bat on Maui. A distinguished research associate in natural sciences at Hawaii's Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, Howarth told Live Science that he was investigating the fauna, evolution and ecology of Hawaiian lava tubes  expansive, cavelike channels formed by flowing lava beneath hardened lava crusts. [Photos of a Rising Lava Lake in Hawaii]

In one cave, he noticed something unusual  a small skeleton embedded in the wall. The tiny bones were overgrown with mineral crystals, "So I knew it was very, very old," Howarth said. He gathered several more accessible specimens from the cave floor, including a near-complete skeleton, and brought them to the late Alan Ziegler, a mammalogist colleague at the Bishop Museum and co-author of the new study.

Howarth recalled that Ziegler already suspected the existence of a "mystery species" that had once lived on the islands, based on assorted individual bones that were discovered over time. Scientists were able to tell that  whatever this animal was  it was smaller than the hoary bat. But no skulls had been found, and there weren't enough of any other bones for scientists to identify the animal they belonged to.

All of that changed with Howarth's discovery. Now that Ziegler had a near-complete skeleton as a frame of reference, individual bones found in other locations began to fall into place.

Skulls and jaws of Synemporion keana (A., top) and the hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus semotus (B., bottom). (Image credit:  American Museum Novitates)

A mosaic of features

Ziegler's death in 2003 temporarily suspended work on the project, which resumed with the participation of Nancy Simmons, curator-in-charge in the mammalogy department at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, who joined the investigation in 2006.

Simmons, who studies living and fossil bats, told Live Science that S. keana's skull shape  with "a distinct forehead"  told them right away that they were looking at a different species from the hoary bat, which doesn't have a well-defined forehead.

But no single feature placed S. keana in a new genus. Rather, it was a mosaic of features that don't appear together in any other known bat species: a particular number of teeth, a certain shape in the molars and skull, and specific proportions of bones in their wings.

"Compared across all other genera of known bats, this particular combination doesn't appear in any of them," Simmons said.

While the isolated Hawaiian Islands are known to host a diverse array of birds and invertebrates, until now, the number of its native mammalian land fauna could be counted not just with one hand, but on one finger. The discovery of S. keana, which doubles the number of endemic Hawaiian land animals, is a surprise that carries an important lesson about diversity, Simmons said.

"It just goes to show that you may think that you know what the diversity of something like an island fauna was like," she said. "Fossils can provide new information, which can be really interesting. And the fossil record of all mammals is always full of surprises."

The findings were published online March 21 in the journal American Museum Novitates.

Follow Mindy Weisberger on Twitter and Google+. Follow us @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science.
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During Womens History Month, women throughout the United States are honored and celebrated for their contributions to society and continued leadership that often shape our communities.

H-E-B honored 16 female partners, or employees, on Thursday for their devotion to excellence and civic responsibility during a special celebration known as the H-E-B Women of Distinction.

Since the programs inception in 2000, more than 2,000 female partners throughout Texas have been recognized and celebrated for their contributions to both the company and to their community.

This year, approximately 400 more female partners joined the ranks to receive the esteemed award.

The women being honored today represent the diversity of our workforce, and although each comes from a different backgrounds and life experiences, they are all bound by a commitment to leadership, said Sonia Quirino Canales, H-E-B diversity manager.

We hope that honoring our partners with this award will inspire more women to pursue leadership opportunities at H-E-B for years to come.

Winners were nominated by their peers and are selected based on a variety of qualities, including their dedication to excellence in customer service and their positive impact on co-workers.

During the ceremony, each winner was given a special pin to wear on their name badge as a token of appreciation for their excellence.

The award was inspired by H-E-Bs founder, Florence Butt, who opened a small grocery store in Kerrville, Texas 110 years ago. Women of Distinction events are a prime example of H-E-Bs commitment to diversity, a news release states.

It is befitting to honor the women of H-E-B who, like Florence, work so hard to make a difference in our community, according to the release.
A man who pleaded guilty to being in the possession of a stolen car with false number plates was handed a six month suspended sentence at a recent district court sitting in Longford.

Brendan Hannafin, 11 An Drinan, Ballymahon, Longford was charged on foot of an incident at Lanesboros SuperValu Car Park, Main Street on February 25, 2015.

On the same date, he was also charged with being in possession of a false NCT disk and vehicle registration certificate contrary to Section 29 of the Criminal Justice Act.

Superintendent Fergus Treanor said gardai came across Mr Hannafin behind the wheel of an Opel Astra car which had previously been taken during the course of a burglary in Lucan, Co Dublin.

In defence, solicitor Tina Dolan said her client was completely oblivious to the fact the car he had purchased on classifiedads website was stolen.

He has no previous (convictions) and the first inkling he had of this was made known to him in the interview room, Ms Dolan said of her client.

The solicitor said Mr Hannafin paid almost 3,000 for the car after seeing the vehicle advertised before travelling to Kilteevan in Co Roscommon to hand over the money.

She also said Mr Hannafin co-operated with gardai in their efforts to track down the seller by handing in a mobile phone to them.

Superintendent Treanor, when asked about whether he accepted the defence that was being put before the court, replied: Absolutely not.

Judge Seamus Hughes was told a tax book was handed into gardai while investigating officers also recovered two forged documents from the car, namely an NCT disk and vehicle registration certificate.

When pressed further as to the quality of those documents by Judge Hughes, Supt Treanor said they were very poor.

Ms Dolan said part of the reason for that was down to her clients belief that the tax book was wet when he purchased the car.

This is the first time he has been in court, she added. He accepts he was in possession of a stolen car but he was unaware of it.

Despite Mr Hannafins previous good record, Judge Hughes said he was left with little option but to impose some form of suspended sentence.

He subsequently handed down a six month sentence, suspending the term for a period of five years.

He also fined Mr Hannafin 500, giving him three months to pay.

The other two Section 29 charges were struck out.
A Lithuanian man has been banned from driving for two years after he was convicted of dangerous driving by Judge Seamus Hughes.

Aleksander Kolesnikov, Baylough Bungalow (behind Supermacs), Athlone, Co Westmeath, was charged following an incident at Athlone Road, Creevaghbeg, Ballymahon, Co Longford on February 8 2015.

Inspector Padraig Jones said gardai responded to a report of dangerous driving on the outskirts of the south Longford town shortly after 2:30am.

When they arrived, he said gardai observed a car allegedly being driven by Mr Kolesnikov.

The driver was reversing the car at speed with the handbrake on, spinning the wheels and creating a cloud of smoke, said the Inspector.

Mr Kolesnikovs defence solicitor had indicated that her client was willing to plead guilty to a lesser charge of careless driving.

However, Judge Hughes was quick to dismiss that appeal.

It was clearly dangerous driving, he said.

Straight away, I am not prepared to accept a reduction to Section 52 (careless driving).

His solicitor said her client had been resident in Ireland for 10 years and needed his licence to travel to and from work.

She added it was Mr Kolesnikovs partner who was supposed to be driving the car on the night in question.

Mr Kolesnikov also addressed the court, saying: If I lose the (driving licence), I lose the job.

Judge Hughes, however, said he had little option but to disqualify Mr Kolesnikov.

He consequently banned him from driving for two years and fined him 250, giving him three months to pay.
Local News, Business & Finance, Press Releases

By Phil Andrews Published: March 28 2016

Phil Andrews is the current President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and the Past President of the 100 Black Men of Long Island.

Woodbury, NY - March 28, 2016 - LIAACCS President Awarded Excellence in Communication Award at Long Island Business News Awards Breakfast on March 24, 2016 at the Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury, New York. LIAACCS President was awarded for overseeing the chambers marketing program and awarded the In House Leadership Marketing Award.

On behalf of the Officers, Board of Directors, and entire membership of LIAACC I would like to thank LIBN for bestowing such an honor upon the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. recognizing both the quality of our marketing and the position of our chamber as a leader in our In House Marketing." Phil Andrews, President.

About: Phil Andrews is the current President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and the Past President of the 100 Black Men of Long Island. Founded in 1974, "The 100" serves as an international coalition focused on creating educational opportunities, promoting economic empowerment, addressing health disparities and creating positive mentoring relationships. As founder of P.A. Public Relations Company, Phil has been afforded the privilege to serve as Public Relations Director for a myriad of companies, community initiatives and professional organizations. Andrews' business acumen is often sought after by organizations that host major events, benefits and fundraisers.

He has served on the Public Relations Committee for the Harlem Book Fair on Long Island {which attracted over 2000 participants in 2003), as Public Relations Committee Member of the New York Metro Black MBA Association and the 100 Black Men of Long Island. Phil Andrews has led a successful PR Campaign for the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. and help to foster growth of many small business owners PR Campaigns in the region.

In 1995 and 1998, Mr. Andrews' excellence in his field garnered the Small Business Person of the Year award by two branches of the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce (Roosevelt and West Indian Chambers, respectively). He has also received a number of proclamations and citations from notable political officials including former Nassau County Executive Thomas S. Gullotta, former Town of Hempstead Supervisor Richard Guardino and Assembly-woman Earlene Hooper Hill, 18th Assembly District of Long Island NY. In 2012, Phil Andrews was honored by the Korean American Association of Greater New York with the Good Neighbor Award. Mr. Andrews was also inducted as one of the Kings of Queens Honorees in 2014.

Phil's work has been featured in multi-platform publications including Black Star News, The New York Beacon, Amsterdam News, Minority Business Review, The Network Journal and more. He is also featured in "15 Years of Minority BusinessDevelopment" a book published by Mr. Robert Adams. Mr. Andrews is listed in Who's Who in Black America and International Who's Who.

Prior to beginning his career in Public Relations, Phil was the Vice President and Marketing Director of the Haircut Hut franchise for more than ten years.

Phil learned early on the importance of community and education. He was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York's Marcy Housing Development and attended Brooklyn Technical High School (one of the country's most recognized schools for academic excellence). After serving several years in the US Navy and Army Reserves, attending York College ( Jamaica, Queens, NY) and John Jay College, (New York, NY), he graduated from paralegal school and began a nearly twenty year career in law enforcement. Community, Service and Education have been constant themes in his life.

Andrews' drive is a profound concern for his community. This has led him to serve on several Boards of Directors includingthe Roosevelt Chamber of Commerce, Roosevelt Kiwanis and the West Indian Chamber of Commerce as the Public Relations Director. Mr. Andrews owns the Power Networking Business Seminar Series, a business network that builds viable connections between community and business.

He continues to build networks in and across many an industry; but, none more important than that of the education and mentorship of young people. As a Certified Mentor, Phil Andrews' goals involve encouraging as many promising young men as possible by compelling them to serve with the very best of their minds and talents.
Local News, Business & Finance, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases

By Long Island News & PR Published: March 28 2016

McGrath continues to ignore community concerns over the proposed gambling development project on public land.

Elmont, NY - March 26th, 2016 - Today, Assemblyman and former federal prosecutor Todd Kaminsky joined Nassau County residents, elected officials and community leaders against proposed video lottery terminals (VLT) at Belmont Park. Kaminsky is running to replace Dean Skelos in the New York State Senate in a Special Election on April 19th.



Kaminsky strongly opposes the Nassau Regional Off-Track Betting Corporations proposal to install 1,000 video lottery terminal machines in a new 100,000 sq. ft. development at Belmont. The estimated cost of the proposed project is $75 million.



It would need the approval of the State Legislature because it would be constructed on public land. Like other pressing community issues, Kaminskys opponent, Chris McGrath, has remained eerily silent as he continues to ignore the concerns of Belmonts neighbors.



We cannot sit idly while unneeded VLT gaming threatens our quality of life and the well-being of our community, said Kaminsky. This misguided plan threatens the value of hard-working families homes, the streets our kids walk to school on, and the neighborhoods we love. Im proud to stand up with so many community leaders and oppose this ill-conceived plan because this community deserves better than getting this shoved down their throats.



Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages added: "A VLT Parlor is a regressive tax on Long Islanders surrounding Belmont Park. Degrading these families simply to fill a budget hole is irresponsible. I commend Todd Kaminsky for joining us in the fight for viable economic development on Long Island as well as making his voice heard on behalf of Nassau County residents.



Floral Park Mayor Thomas Tweedy said, I stood with Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, Assembly Todd Kaminsky, Nassau County Legislator Carrie Solages and City Councilman Barry Grodenchik in joining many others at all levels of government in opposing a VLT casino at Belmont. All in attendance appreciated Assemblyman Todd Kaminsky for taking a stance and standing with his local constituents



Newsday has reported that Republican Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano is relying on $20 million in casino revenue to balance his 2016 budget, and the project has the support of the Republican Majority in the Nassau County Legislature. Kaminskys opponent, Chris McGrath, has refused to mention the issue at all during the campaign, and is remaining silent--even as the legislature prepares to either approve to disapprove the plan.



About Todd Kaminsky

Assemblyman Kaminsky has spent his career fighting for Long Island families and working to end government corruption. As a federal prosecutor representing Long Island, Brooklyn and Queens, and as acting deputy chief of the Public Integrity Section, Todd took down corrupt elected officials, drug kingpins and other major felons.



In 2014, Todd was elected to represent the South Shore in the New York State Assembly. During his first term, Todd fought for and won ethics reforms, tax breaks, aid for Sandy victims, and a new emergency center at South Nassau Communities Hospital. Todd authored the most laws by a first-year assemblymember in recent New York State history.
Pets & Animal, Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases

By Long Island News & PR Published: March 28 2016

Today, Monday, March 28th, marks the 3rd anniversary for Bruno, the last dog to leave the Nassau County Emergency Pet Shelter (see story below) that was set up after Hurricane Sandy.

Melville, NY - March 28th, 2016 - Today, Monday, March 28th, marks the 3rd anniversary for Bruno, the last dog to leave the Nassau County Emergency Pet Shelter (see story below) that was set up after Hurricane Sandy.



The shelter was open for four and half months, and at one time held over 500 different pets, primarily dogs and cats. It was superbly run by various group humane organizations, among them a group of dedicated volunteers from the Nassau County SPCA and our Pet Safe Program.



Bruno was incredibly frightened, and had a very tough time adjusting to life at the shelter after being ripped from his home. At one point during his stay at the emergency shelter, it was recommended by an animal behaviorist that he was unadoptable, and should be euthanized.



Fortunately for Bruno, that was never a consideration. A group of the remaining staff at the emergency shelter, including Robert Sowers of Nassau County SPCA , along with others from the Pet Safe work endlessly to bring the best out of Bruno, proving against the recommendation, and against all odds, that Bruno deserved a chance at a new life.



He was adopted by Karen & Marc Siegel and has enjoyed a wonderful, loving life at their home in Melville, Long Island. Happy Anniversary Bruno!



And special thank you everyone who never gave up.



Original Release Below.



Nassau County, NY - March 14th, 2013 - In its 40 year history, the Nassau County SPCA has seen its share of heartwarming adoptions and heart-stopping rescues, but its current quest, with Pet Safe Coalition and HUG to find a home for the last of its Sandy survivors may be one of its most heartbreaking.



Bruno, an adult Rottweiler with a face that could tell a thousand tales, is facing an uncertain future as the Mitchel Field Emergency Pet Shelter prepares to close its doors and Bruno's former owner made the difficult decision to relinquish him to emergency shelter care.





When Superstorm Sandy hit the East Coast in late October 2012, no one could predict that the lives of those affected would remain in such desperate upheaval into the following year. Residents of Long Beach, New York's small barrier island, remain without sewage, gas or electricity for weeks and homes there have been devastated by mold and decay. Bruno and his owner, Christopher, were two such residents who fought the storm together and survived, submerged in water and left homeless in the days that followed.



Nassau County's Emergency Pet Shelter, an abandoned former gymnasium at Mitchel Field, was a saving grace to Bruno, along with over 500 other family-owned pets in need of shelter and care while their owners took time to pick up the pieces and rebuild.



Unfortunately for Bruno, Christopher's situation only worsened as the canine's weeks in the emergency shelter turned into months. Christopher lost his job and struggled to find a new place to live that allowed for Rotti companions. Desperate for work, Christopher took a job outside of New York and was able to visit with Bruno less and less frequently.



Now, as Mitchel Field Emergency Pet Shelter makes preparations to shut down, Bruno, is its very last resident, has to face a challenge bigger than any nature could throw at him. The dog's owner, Christopher has decided to say goodbye to his longtime furry friend and Nassau County SPCA workers are heartbroken at the prospect of sending not sending Bruno to a new home life.



"Bruno is a devoted dog," stated Gary Rogers spokesperson for the Nassau County SPCA. "He has a strong and sometimes stubborn Rottweiler personality that would fit best with an owner who understands the breed, but he becomes a loveable puppy around the people he really knows and trusts. He has had a very difficult last few months and we are desperate to find him a happy ending."



If you are interested in adopting Bruno, can provide foster care for a short period of time, or for more information, please contact Nassau County Emergency Pet Shelter at: 516-272-0017, or email emergencypetshelter@gmail.com.
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Columnists Press Releases
The Syrian Army and its Iranian-backed allies have retaken the ancient city of Palmyra from the Islamic State. After several days of heavy fighting, Bashar al Assads regime claimed victory over the so-called caliphates fighters.

The Islamic State initially tried to deny that the Syrian government was making progress. On Mar. 24, the Amaq News Agency, which is one of the groups propaganda outlets, released a video supposedly showing the jihadists in complete control of the city. Within days, however, Assads military was claiming victory.

The Islamic State captured Palmyra in May 2015. A few months later, in August 2015, the group also seized the nearby town of Qaryatain. But that town and others surrounding Palmyra are now reportedly being targeted by forces loyal to Assad and his partners. The Syrian regime hopes to follow up its success in Palmyra by pushing the Islamic State out of Qaryatain.

Even though Palmyra had been under the Islamic States control since last May, the area surrounding the city was contested in the months that followed.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the two sides repeatedly clashed in the outlying areas throughout 2015. SOHR also reported on multiple occasions that Syrian warplanes had bombed locations inside the city. In August 2015, SOHR claimed that the Syrian governments helicopters dropped more than 10 barrel bombs on areas in the outskirts of Palmyra city and its vicinity.

During the months it controlled Palmyra, the Islamic State destroyed and looted some of its historic sites. The jihadists also executed Khaled Asaad, a scholar in charge of the citys antiquities.

Palmyras ruins were used as a backdrop for the Islamic States gruesome execution videos. In July 2015, the organization executed more than two dozen Syrian regime soldiers in an ancient amphitheater.

As the battle intensified over the course of the last week, the Islamic State attempted to thwart the Syrian regimes advances by deploying its infamous suicide bombers. Abu Bakr al Baghdadis men claim to have killed dozens of Syrian soldiers, Hezbollah fighters and even several Russian soldiers during the fighting. While this slowed the progress made by Assads soldiers and the Shiite militiamen who fight alongside them, it wasnt enough for the Sunni jihadists to carry the day.

It is not clear how many martyrs were used in Palmyra. However, the Islamic States media arm will likely include a count in its weekly Al Naba newsletter or in a monthly tally produced by Amaq, which regularly publish statistics summarizing the jihadists global suicide operations. For instance, Amaqs infographic for February can be seen on the right.

According to Amaq, the Islamic State carried out 175 martyrdom operations in January and February. Fifty-five of these (or more than 31 percent) targeted Syrian regime forces.

Assad regime fights Islamic State in several areas of Syria

Bashar al Assads regime and the Islamic State have fought one another on several key battlefields over the past year.

In November 2015, the Syrian Army and its paramilitary allies ended the Islamic States siege of the Kweiris air base in Aleppo province. The caliphates jihadists held their ground surrounding Kweiris for nearly two years, cutting off the Assad loyalists who were defending the facility from reinforcements.

However, Russian air support changed the balance of power. Syrian and Iranian-backed ground forces broke through the jihadists lines, capturing villages surrounding Kweiris before freeing many of the soldiers who had been surrounded inside the base. According to the SOHR, the Syrian military fought alongside Hezbollah jihadists, Syrias National Defense Forces (a collection of pro-Assad militias) and Iranian fighters as they made their way toward Kweiris. [See LWJ report, Assad regime, allies break Islamic States siege of air base in Aleppo.]

The Islamic State has continued to attack Assads forces near Kweiris air base in the months since. In February, Amaq released an infographic (seen on the right) claiming that Islamic State fighters carried out 21 martyrdom operations in the area between Sept. 17, 2015 and Jan. 31, 2016. All of the suicide bombings used VBIEDs (vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices). Eleven of the 21 attacks took place in November and December 2015.

The two sides have battled each other elsewhere in Aleppo province as well. The Syrian regimes major supply route in the province runs through the town of Khanaser. The Sunni jihadists launched an offensive in February as part of their attempt to close off the road. The fierce fighting that ensued continued into March.

The Islamic State initially cut off the Khanaser supply route, but the Syrian Army responded with a counteroffensive. Since late February, Syrian government forces, backed by Iranian-sponsored proxies and Russian air support, have repeatedly claimed progress in Khanaser and the neighboring areas in Aleppo province.

On Mar. 23, SANA (Assads propaganda arm) denied social media reports suggesting the road through Khanaser had been shuttered once again by the Islamic State. SANA claimed that the road had been fully secured by the army earlier in the month and that the traffic was now normal.

But the Islamic State continues to challenge Assads fighters near Khanaser. Earlier today, for example, Amaq reported that a martyrdom operation targeted Syrian regime forces who were attempting to advance  east of Khanaser in the Aleppo countryside. Indeed, the jihadists have targeted this vital artery since last year, periodically disrupting the Syrian regimes ability to move supplies and forces along the road.

Given the ongoing battles along the key supply route running through Khanaser, it is unsurprising that Amaq claims that the Syrian regime lost more fighters in Aleppo in February than in any other province. For instance, Amaq produced an infographic (seen on the right) purportedly summarizing the total number of Syrian regime troops killed during the month of February. Nearly two-thirds (508 out of 803) of the claimed casualties occurred in the Aleppo province. The remaining 295 Syrian troops were supposedly killed by the Islamic State in five other areas.

Of course, it is impossible to verify the statistics published by Amaq. And it is not clear how the news agency could generate such precise figures for the regimes casualties.

The Islamic State and Assads forces are at each others throats in the eastern city of Deir Ezzor as well. Yesterday, Amaq posted a video allegedly showing a Syrian soldier who defected to Baghdadis men in Deir Ezzor. Earlier this month, Amaq also claimed that the jihadists had gained ground in the southern part of Deir Ezzor. Multiple suicide bombers have been dispatched in recent days to strike regime forces in and around the city.

If Assads government can hold onto Palmyra, then it will be a significant victory against the Islamic State. Abu Bakr al Baghdadis proto-state faces significant opposition on several fronts, including from Assad, Shiite militias and Russia.

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.
The spokesman for a faction of the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan said that the group intentionally targeted Christians in a suicide bombing which killed and wounded hundreds of women and children on Easter Sunday.

The target was Christians, Ihsanullah Ihsan, the official spokesman of the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said according to a statement obtained by The Long War Journal.

Ihsan also said that Jamaat-ul-Ahrar wanted to send a message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore. The group has been operating in Punjab province for nearly two years.

At least 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed and more than 300 were wounded after a suicide bomber detonated his explosives at the entrance of the Gulshan-i-Iqbal park in the eastern city of Lahore, according to Dawn. Many of the people at the park were said to have been celebrating Easter Sunday.

The brutal Lahore suicide attack took place just one day after the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the official name of the Afghan Taliban, released a statement entitled Only Islamic rituals can be celebrated in an Islamic country on its official website, Voice of Jihad. The Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan has given an oath of allegiance to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has targeted Christians in Lahore in the past. In March 2015, the group claimed responsibility for the bombings at two churches in Lahore. At least 14 people were killed and 70 more were wounded.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar launched at least two other suicide attacks in Punjab. In November 2014, a suicide bomber killed 50 people at the Wagah border crossing with India. And in August 2015, another of the groups suicide bombers killed Punjab provinces home minister and 16 other people in an attack at his house.

The Pakistani military responded to the Easter Sunday massacre in Lahore by announcing the beginning of a wide security operation in Punjab to root out Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. But, as noted, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has been active in the province and has conducted several high-profile suicide attacks there since November 2014.

A dangerous jihadist group

The leadership of Jamaat-ul-Ahrar is known to have ties to multiple jihadist groups operating in the region. Omar Khalid al Khurasani, a top leader of the group, is closely linked to Ayman al Zawahiri, al Qaedas emir, and has called for the imposition of sharia law and the establishment of a global caliphate. Khurasani has also said that a primary goal of the Pakistani Taliban is to obtain nuclear weapons. [See LWJ reports, Taliban commander wants Pakistans nukes, global Islamic caliphate, and Jamaat-ul-Ahrar celebrates 9/11 attack.]

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar split from the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan in the summer of 2014 after a leadership dispute emerged in the wake of the killing of Hakeemullah Mehsud, the previous emir of the Pakistani Taliban alliance. But Jamaat-ul-Ahrar rejoined the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan in March 2015. Lashkar-e-Islam, a group based in Pakistans tribal areas, also joined the Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan.

The Movement of the Taliban in Pakistan is also known to have integrated key al Qaeda and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi leaders into its organization. In May 2014, three jihadist groups  led by Matiur Rehman, Ehsanul Haq, and Muhammad Shamil  merged with the group. Matiur Rehman, who was put in command of all three factions, is a senior al Qaeda and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi leader. The US Treasury Department described Rehman as Lashkar-e-Jhangvis chief operational commander and as a planning director for al Qaeda in his 2010 designation.

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.
How does a cipher and code, used by a failed politician, dropped into the middle of a trial for treason in 1807, involving then-president Thomas Jefferson and Chief Justice John Marshall, lead to a citation and a counter-citation in a legal brief in 2016? It all leads back to Aaron Burrs cipher, certainly. He did not throw away his key.

The trial is well known to students of American history. Burr, depicted accurately in the musical Hamilton as having few convictions except a desire to come out on top, had run in 1800 as Jeffersons vice president on a ticket against incumbent John Adams. Constitutional peculiarities of the day led to Burr and Jefferson receiving equal electoral votes, in turn leading to 35 ballots in the House of Representatives until Jefferson prevailed with a majority of the states votes.

Burr had served reportedly admirably as veep, presiding over the Senate, especially in deciding an impeachment case in favor of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Chase against Jeffersons attempts to weaken the judiciary. The case is a foundation for judicial independence, and has provided a long-standing bulwark for which hes still commended. This and other matters did not endear Burr to Jefferson, who wanted to weaken the courts and federal control, and who booted Burr from the ticket in his successful re-election campaign of 1804. (Before the election that year, the constitutional oddity regarding electoral votes was resolved with the 12th amendment.)

While the election season was still underway in 1804, Burr, stung by Alexander Hamiltons private and public attacks against him and Hamiltons ultimate refusal of Burrs demand for him to recant 15 years worth of statements, challenged him to a duel. We all know the outcome of that. Following Hamiltons death, Burr fled charges in both New York and New Jersey, though they were ultimately dropped.

Burr completed his vice-presidential term in early 1805, then headed to the west, a so-called frontier that then stretched from much of Montana in a ragged line southeast to all but the southwesternmost portion of modern Louisiana. War with Spain seemed imminent. And this is where encryption catches up with Burr during a legendary treason trial.

Codes, ciphers, and substitutions

Ill get into the nitty-gritty of Apple and the Department of Justices brief in the next section, and how it relates to Burrs 1807 treason trial. But lets look first at the encryption employed.

Several kinds of encoding systems were already popular in the 1600s in various countries, and some were used extensively by Americans in the Revolutionary War. Jefferson used them to secure messages during his ambassadorship to France (from 1784 to 1789) because, as the Monticello site notes, Codes were an essential part of his correspondence because European postmasters routinely opened and read all diplomatic and any suspect letters passing through their command. The posts were not safe in America, eithernor anywherewhether for commercial or governmental purposes.

The so-called treason letter, written in at least three kinds of code, maybe more.

Burr was known to use code in his letters as early as 1774 at the age of 18. (He was a prodigy, like Hamilton.) The letter between Burr and the governor of the Lousiana Territory, James Wilkinson, that prompted treason charges contained three distinct methods:

Codes or what were termed hieroglyphics at the time: Symbols that referred to a specific thing or person for which each party had a codebook with those correspondences. It also included some numeric codes for certain terms and for people. (At least two separate code systems may have been mixed together, or possibly three.)

A book or dictionary cipher, in which numbers referred to pages and columns in a standard reference work. This is an out-of-band element, something parties who encoded and decoded could have on hand that might not be unique, but didnt pass over the same channel as the message. In this case, the 1800 edition of Enticks Spelling Dictionary was the source.

A substitution cipher, in which each letter has a replacement with a symbol, apparently used as a fallback when parties couldnt access the spelling dictionary, and for speed. Many ciphers swap one letter for another, instead. A more complicated substitution cipher was used by others who corresponded with Wilkinson, and relied on a commonly known word, like cuba or france, each letter of which seeded a separate substitution cipher which was used in sequence. One had to know the seed word to rotate correctly through associated ciphers and restore the text. (Jefferson used a more advanced and user friendly multiple-cipher version that relied on wooden disks.)

A codebook is the most resistent of all methods, because it is entirely arbitrary. Without the association of codes and meanings being discovered, a codebreaker would need to assemble enough material to find patterns.

The book-based method could be seen as foolhardy, because both this particular book (across multiple editions) had already been used, and those intercepting a message would recognize the form in which references to pages and columns were made. Obtaining a copy of the book on demand or trying multiple potential books would be time consuming, however.

The alleged code table and substitution cipher used in the treason letter.

Substitution ciphers are the easiest to break, because letter-frequency analysis of text of any modest length reveals most of the letters. It can be performed by hand. Even the rotation method (not employed in the so-called treason letter) isnt resistent to frequency analysis, because patterns still emerge that can be broken down.

The greatest flaw in this and similar letters is mixing code types, as once the simpler encryptions are broken, this often reveals enough context to break the harder ones, such as the codebook method.

In the actual event, however, no early NSA cracker had to go at it. Wilkinson, as the recipient of the letter, provided an ostensibly accurate decoded copy to Jefferson, which formed the basis of his federal charges.

Youve got mail

Its a fascinating time in America: Aaron Burr has returned to the limelight as an antagonist in the hottest ticket on Broadway, and a case in which he was involved became an issue of contention in the most fraught battle over the future of strong encryption. Having explained the encryption used in the letter at issue, lets look at the actual trial.

In a brief filed March 10 by the Department of Justice in the now-settled battle to determine whether Apple had to create a custom operating system to allow the FBI a better ability to decrypt a phone owned by one of the terrorists in the San Bernardino tragedy, this remarkable statement appeared:

Contrary to Apples argument, the Order does not require it to provide decryption services to the government. But that would not be novel, either. Indeed, no less an authority than Chief Justice Marshall held that Aaron Burrs clerk could be forced to decipher a coded letter of Burrs, provided that doing so would not incriminate the clerk. See United States v. Burr, 25 F. Cas. 38, 39-40 (C.C. Va. 1807).

Apples rejoinder appeared as a footnote in its filing six days later (the term cipher here refers to the encoded message):

The government contends that Chief Justice Marshall once ordered a third party to provide decryption services to the government. Opp. 20 (citing United States v. Burr, 25 F. Cas. 38 (C.C.D. Va. 1807) (No. 14692E)). He did nothing of the sort, and the All Writs Act was not even at issue in Burr. In that case, Aaron Burrs secretary declined to state whether he understood the contents of a certain letter written in cipher, on the ground that he might incriminate himself. 25 F. Cas. at 39. The Court held that the clerks answer as to whether he understood the cipher could not incriminate him, and the Court thus held that the witness may answer the question now propoundedi.e., whether he understood the letter. Id. at 40. The Court did not require the clerk to decipher the letter.

The case at hand was a trial over whether Burr and some accomplices were attempting to raise an army to wage war either within or without the bounds of the United States. The charges were treason and high misdemeanor. Jefferson in pursuing the charges and a grand jury in indicting Burr covered both treason defined narrowly in the Constitution (waging war against the United States) and the misdemeanor charge, which would cover violation of a neutrality treaty to engage in military operations against another nation (here, Spain) if the United States wasnt itself in a state of war.

Its key to note that though Marshall was the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, at the time it was customary for justices to handle other criminal matters in districts that corresponded to their position. Because we live in the future, we can easily pull up the transcript of the testimony and Marshalls response. Its a complicated back and forth (abbreviated in the link; the full transcripts are even denser), but Mr. Willie (whose first name I cannot determine) has stipulated he didnt know the cipher. One of the prosecutors asks:

He has sworn in his deposition that he did not understand the cipher of this letter. How then can his merely copying it implicate him in a crime when he does not know its contents?

Ultimately, Marshall says hell consider the question, and then a few days later issues a lengthy ruling. In it, he never addresses whether the secretary has stated that he knows the decoding key or keys at all; in fact, no one challenges Willie on that point. He asserts he didnt understand the coded portion of the letter at all. Marshall doesnt ask him for the keys nor to ask him decrypt the letter. Rather, the ruling only allowed that Willie could refuse to answer certain legitimate questions only if he swore it would incriminate him:

if he say on oath that he cannot answer without accusing himself, he cannot be compelled to answer.

The letter itself, incidentally, was seen as less than credible, even decoded by its recipient, James Wilkson, who turned it over to Jefferson out of fear of implication. Charles F. Hobson, an expert on John Marshall, writing for the Federal Trials and Great Debates in United States History project, notes:

His testimony before the grand jury was undermined by indications that he had altered the famous cipher letter in ways to conceal his own relationship with Burr.

Wilkinson, who Theodore Roosevelt later labeled one of American historys most despicable characters, was removed from his position, and later faced court martial, but was exonerated. Years after his death, evidence of his own treason became more clear.

There are still questions raised today about whether Burr intended to challenge Spain, seize a huge amount of territory, and style himself Emperor Aaron I of Mexico; tried to set up a more modest secession of territory; or wanted to secure a part of the country in which he planned to live.

The thing thats clear is that he relied on the wrong secret keeper.

Sources

Google Books and other digitized forms of primary documents are incredibly helpful, and some are referenced above. In addition:

Enticks Spelling Dictionary (1800)

The Life of Harman Blennerhassett (1853) for a superb rundown of the letters encoding

I also referred to War of Two by John Sedgwick, a book about the relationship and feuds between Hamilton and Burr, and An Artist in Treason: The Extraordinary Double Life of General James Wilkinson By Andro Linklater.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > West Asia: Latest Ankara-Riyadh Strategy in Syria

by Hasan Hamidullah

The emergence of the Russian Air Force in Syria at a time when many had predicted the capture of Damascus by the ISIL and other fundamentalist elements within a brief spell, has thrown Ankara and Riyadh into confusion as it has foiled the Turkey-Saudi plan to bring the Sunni groups to power in Syria. The campaign unleashed by these two states to accuse the Russian Air Force and Assads forces of allegedly causing widespread civilian casualties in Syria is only a pretext to disrupt the peace process in the country and engineer an armed intervention there for the purpose of saving the jihadists under their control.

Riyadhs announcement of its intention to use ground troops in Syria as part of the US-led coalition, supported by Turkey, the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain, bears testimony to the Saudi desire to involve the West in the conflict by any means with the objective of realising its military gamble in the region. At the same time Riyadh is doing everything possible to frustrate the negotiations on the Syrian settlement at Geneva with the help of a high-level negotiation committee formed by the forces opposed to Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad; and this negotiation committee includes terrorists of Ahram ash-sham and Jaish al-Islam. This committee is striving to press certain prelimi-nary conditions aimed at stopping the offensive of the Syrian Army.

Ankara and Riyadh are coordinating their actions with the purpose of inflicting strikes on Syria under the banner of an Islamic military coalition of 34 countries, mostly Sunni, set up under the aegis of Riyadh in December 2015. For them what is imperative is that military operations against Syria are conducted not only by Turkey and Saudi Arabia but by the forces of other countries as well. Thus Ankara and Riyadh are keen to share responsibility for the aggression with other states and impart an international character to this conflict. Saudi Arabia is probing the possibility of placing a 150,000-strong Islamic military contingent on Syrian territory and this is to comprise forces from Egypt, Jordan, the UAE and Pakistan, besides Turkey.

Already there is information about the deployment of Saudi troops in Jordan and military preparaedness of Turkey thereby strengthening the suspicion that Saudi Arabia is making intensive preparations for a military invasion of Syria. According to Reuters, Syrian insurgents have received in February surface-to-surface missiles from abroad. Ankara and Riyadh are supplying weapons to the rebels through an operation station located in Turkey. Separate groups of insurgents and outside troops to be deployed in Syria are also learnt to have undergone military training under the super-vision of the CIA of the US.

When a member of the Washington-led coalition fighting the Syrian Government creates its own group and proclaims goals which are the same as those of the US, it clearly means that Saudi Arabia has been assigned tasks which are different from those of the USA for fighting international terrorism. The armed struggle against the ISIL is used only as an excuse to get the green signal from the international commu-nity for intervention in neighbouring countriesin Yemen, in Syria and in Iraq. At the same time none is pondering over certain irrefutable facts: the direct aggression of Ankara against a sovereign state by the Turkish Armys artillery strikes on settlements of Syrian Kurds, and the genocide of Shiites in Yemen carried out by the Saudi Army with the use of cluster munitions.

Thus Saudi and Turkish troops side by side with the jihadists under the cover of the US-led coalition will fight against the Syrian Army and Kurds resulting in a considerable escalation of hostilities. However, the attempt to initiate a local conflict is fraught with unpredictable consequencesof a regional war taking a much bigger dimension and presenting the threat of a Third World War in view of Turkeys membership in the NATO. Therefore, there is every possibility of the whole region becoming hostage to the strategy of Erdogan and his Saudi friendsthat is, King Salman suffering from Alzheimers disease and his imbalanced son, Muhammad.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > Time to Breach the Wall

From N.C.s Writings

The last few months have witnessed the deterioration of Indo-Pak relations to the point of almost eye-ball-to-eyeball confrontation. Tempers have been stoked high and the fiercest propaganda bombardment has been going on between two neighbours born out of the same motherland.

The measure of this high-pitched tension was provided on the one side by Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhuttos frenzied diatribe against India over the Kashmir issue, and by the disgraceful conduct of the authorities in Bombay forcing the cancellation of the Pakistan Consul Generals official reception on the National Day of our neighbourning country. The plea that the responsibility for the shocking incident lay with the Shiv Sena does not in the least exonerate the conduct of the Maharashtra Government unless it confesses that it has handed over the fate of the metropolis to a gang of political goons.

The disconcerting fall-out of that shameful incident has been the Pakistan Governments decision to close down its Consulate in Bombay. If responsible quarters in the Capital feel, as they informally indicate, that this move on the part of Islamabad is to prepare the ground for reciprocal retaliation by forcing the closure of the Indian Consulate in Karachi, then one gets an idea of the enormity of mutual animosity that has been permitted to develop between the governments of the two countries.

It is precisely this dangerous state of the present phase of Indo-Pak relations that underlines the urgency of active intervention at the level of the public that has become imperative. It will be short-sighted to be content with the thought that since both the countries are today ruled by elected governments, they know whats best to do to meet the situation. The flaw in this argument lies in the fact that unlike other foreign-policy theatres deciding on the countrys international relations, the Indo-Pak relations are unique and there is no parallel really with our relations with any other country. In fact Pakistan, by objective logic, is hardly a foreign land for us. Apart from the common bonds of history, social and cultural mores that bind the two peoples, the fact of the matter is that there are hundreds of thousands upon thousands of Indian citizens who have got near and dear relations in Pakistan. And the same is true of an equal number of those living in Pakistan.

And how do we treat the near and dear ones of the citizens of this country? Over the years the authorities in both the countries have spent their energy, resources and ingenuity in building up a structure of mutual quarantine. For the citizens of the two countries, a special type of visa is issued which imposes the strict condition on the visitor to report regularly to the local police, and movements restricted only to the particular town or district specififed in the visa itself. Tourists from no other country have to put up with such ignominy; only suspected criminals are to adhere to such restrictions.

What is amazing is that the government of the two countries have mutually consented to impose such restrictions knowing fully that a very large percentage of those who come with such a visa do not care to report or go back and it is humanly impossible to trace the truant because of their ethnic and cultural identity with our population. And exactly the same predicament prevails on the other side of the frontier, in Pakistan. Moreover, it is common knowledge that all along the frontier, stretching over thousands of miles, smugglers trespass with impunity.

No Maginot line nor Berlin Wall can keep the people of the two neighbouring countries in total incommunicado and yet the barriers that have been set up by the common consent of the governments of the two countries betray almost a diabolical determination not only to keep the people of both the countries physically apart with the utmost minimum of communication, but also to ensure that they are kept in the dark about the life and living, the perceptions of such ignorance about each other Newspapers from one country are not transmitted to the other, though in both the countries one gets journals from distant parts of the world. Very few newspapers in India get papers from Pakistan, and vice versa. Some of the newspapers keep correspondents in Pakistanthe number has dwindled to an almost token presence todaybut their despatches are confined mostly to items about Indo-Pak official circuit or those that inflame passions against each other. By and large, a reader of the Indian press comes to know very little of what the public in Pakistan is thinking about their own problems, about the internal developments that beset the Pakistani people, about the issues relating to other countries as seen from Pakistan. The electronic media has been spreading the same poison and only the foreign satellite channels provide us with occasional glimpses of one another. In other words, the authorities in both the countries have done their best to build up the image of their immediate neighbour as a monstera Frankensten, Dracula and King Kong, all rolled into one.

What is intriguing is that the two governments at times decide to relax the rules. Several times decisions were taken that newspapers of the two countries should be available to each other, and yet nothing has been done. Books of scholarship, exploring into the early history of the two countriestheir common historyare hardly available to even scholars. While seminars and conferences are held in which participants come from both India and Pakistan, the number of such get-togethers is far less than those held with participants from, say, the USA or the UK. Perhaps the only wholesome item that has still been retained in this drive to preserve goodwill towards each other is the holding of mushairas. No doubt wholesome, but how few of this subcontinent are covered by such a gathering of poets?

In this unhealthy environment of mutual antipathy, it is the third party that gets the upper hand. There was a time when Pakistans friendship with China was a subject of unrelieved suspicion in India. Perhaps the same was true for the Pakistan public about Indias close relations with Moscow. And after the disappearance of the Cold War, both the countries seem to be looking up to the USA, each trying to plead with it against the other. We get het up whenever there is news of Pakistan receiving more arms from abroad, and it must be the same within Pakistan with regard to India in the perception of the public in general. It is but inevitable that if the two neighbours, so intricately bound to each other by history and geography, prefer to wallow in distrust and anger bordering on insanity, in such a situation, there is nothing surprising if any third party tries to exploit it to its advantage.

The time has come to break this vicious state of ignorance and hatred that blocks our common path. Even for breaking the chronic ill-temper at the official level, it is imperative that concerned citizens at all levels come forward and start a nationwide campaign for more news, more understanding of each others problems, more interaction, more interface. There has to be an emphatic assertion at the level of the citizen for such contact, such interaction.

Yes, Kashmir is no doubt a sore point. But it will do both us and Pakistan a lot of good if we know how each of us looks at the problem. The situation in Kashmir or in India or in Pakistan will not be worse if we seriously try to get over the barriers that divide us. There is no real defence for either of us by massive military build-up. The real defence lies in changing our mindsets. Nowhere is it more true than in the case of our two countries, that conflicts and wars begin in the minds of men. And it is there we have to turn the focus of the concerned citizen at all levelsthe media practitioners, academics, professional groups, the NGOs in hundreds.

The time has come to pierce the dam so that the flood will help to sweep away the bitter deposits of hatred and bloodshedlet us live as two countries governed by the same destiny.

(Political Notebook in Mainstream, April 9, 1994)
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > On One Death: Several Questions

COMMUNICATION

I would like to offer some comments on the Political Notebook by B.D.G., entitled One Death: Several Questions, that appeared in the Mainstream issue of February 13, 2016.

One. B.D.G. writes that the Indian Army is at a strategically advantageous position at Siachen because it occupies the top of the glacier while Pakistani troops are down below. It is true that Indian troops occupy positions that are higher than Pakistani positions, but those are on the ridge line between Siachen glacier and the mountains to its west, and that is a tactical advantage required to maintain control of Siachen glacier itself.

Two. The strategic advantage is occupation of Siachen glacier to deny link-up of Pakistani-held Gilgit with Chinese-held Aksai Chin. This is important since there is presence of Chinas PLA in Gilgit, and such a link-up will compromise the security of the Shyok and Nubra river valleys, making it easy for the Pakistan-China axis to pose a credible military threat to Leh and the Indus river valley.

Three. B.D.G. writes : For India the strategic importance of Siachen is that it lies above Khardungla. This is completely misleading since Khardungla is on the Ladakh mountain range, and is more than 100-km to the South of the southern (low) end of Siachen glacier.

Four. B.D.G. states: The only way out is for Indian and Pakistan to agree to leave Siachen alone and remove their respective troops. Firstly, Pakistani troops are not on Siachen glacier at all, but the Pakistani Army has been making out to its own population and government that it is facing Indian troops on the glacier, to justify its presence. Secondly, if Indian troops leave their present tactically commanding positionswon with much sacrifice of life and limbit will leave these positions open to stealthy occupation by Pakistani troops and make India lose its present strategic advantage of preventing the link-up. Thirdly, once the Pak-China link-up between Gilgit and Aksai Chin is established, armed conflict to defend the Indus valley will involve Indian troops engaging Chinese troops, and this will widen the conflict to Indias military and political disadvantage.

Yes, the Siachen conflict is costly in terms of the life and limb of Indian soldiers, besides of course the financial and economic costs, but if Indias territorial and political integrity is to be maintained, India will have to bear these costs. Therefore, the nation needs to look after its military genuinely by restoring its rightful status, which has been steadily downgraded by bureaucratic machinations, including most recently by the shabby treatment regarding the One-Rank-One-Pension and the Seventh Pay Commission recommendations.

It is true that peace between India and Pakistan is highly desirable. But if there is to be a withdrawal of troops, let there be talks between India and Pakistan to first stop all Pakistani-sourced cross-border militancy and terrorism, and then commence de-militarisation beginning with borders with Gujarat and proceeding northwards, with constant monitoring to prove Pakistani sincerity. The doubt on Pakistans sincerity is because India has been deceived more than once in the past and the price has been paid by India with the lives and limbs of its soldiers.

These comments are intended to place the questions raised by B.D.G. in perspective, so that readers get their facts right.

Mysore Maj Gen S.G.Vombatkere (Retd.)

B.D.G. responds to the above letter by writing: My comment on Siachen was based on the following:

I took over as Corps Commander in August 3, 1983. In September-October, I briefed Prime Minister Indira Gandhi about the strategic importance of Siachen and Pak design to capture Khardungla and dominate Leh by bringing artillery and rockets etc. in Nubra valley and then link up with the Chinese at Aksai Chin.

 Lt. Gen. P.N. Hoon, GOC, 15 Corps

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Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > Damning Urdu

The National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL), which operates under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, has introduced a form which requires authors of books NCPUL acquires annually to declare that the content will not be against the government or the country. (http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/urdu-writers-asked-to-declare-my-book-not-against-the-govt-nation/)

The same source reproduces the form, originally circulated in Urdu, thus: I, son/daughter of ..., confirm that my book/magazine titled ..., which has been approved for bulk purchase by NCPULs monetary assistance scheme, does not contain anything against the policies of the government of India or the interest of the nation, does not cause disharmony of any sort between different classes of the country, and is not monetarily supported by any government or non-government institution.

Urdu is one of the twentytwo scheduled languages of the country. It is the language of vastly more Indians than, for instance, Bodo or Santali or Sindhi. Historically, there is no doubt that it is an Indian language. Whenever people have suggested that it is a foreign language, I have responded with two questions. First, was Urdu born in Hindostan or in Arabia or Peru or China? Second, where except in the sub-continent is it spoken? I know it for a fact that, despite commonalities in semantics, no one in Jeddah or Tehran can follow sentences spoken in Urdu. This is because syntactically it is little different from Hindi, or from what is still called Hindustani, or from the Hindavi of Amir Khusros time.

To my knowledge, neither the Ministry of Human Resource Development nor any other arm of the government has imposed a similar condition on any of the other twentyone scheduled languages. Clearly, Urdu has been singled out because of its association with Islam. Going further, because Urdu is the official language of Pakistan, it is stupidly assumed to be the language of pro-Pakistan people in India. This stupidity is a fundamental part of the ideology of the Sangh Parivar, which now rules over India. And these worthies see Pakistan not as just a neighbour but as an enemy nation.

This explains the main clause of the declaration demanded, does not contain anything against the interest of the nation. It is assumed that those who write in Urdu, given that they are chiefly Muslims and given that Pakistan is an Islamic republic, are by definition (in the currently popular expression) anti-national: specifically, they are Pakistani spies or agents.

The fear of anything against the policies of the government of India is, in a democracy, laughable but also sinister. It takes away the right of free speech, one of the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. It is the consideration which governed the actions of the sarkari censors during the Emergency of 1975-77, when fundamental rights were suspended.

But this leads also to the question: Are we a democracy any more?

The author is a writer, editor and photographer.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > Most Indians Would be Considered Anti-National

Lately, a number of people have been described as anti-national by the Hindutva lobby. Most shocking is their definition of anybody who worships demons from Hindu mythology as also anti-national. The mythological figures belong to a distant past when the concept of nation-state was not there. Nation is a modern concept and it is defined by our Constitution which, in the wildest of imaginations, has no place for mythology. Only an insane person would confuse the two things. It is a pity that even government institutions, like the police, are falling in this trap of the Hindutva campaign.

It appears that the Hindtuva lobby is assuming that India has become a Hindu Rashtra merely because the BJP has come to power at the Centre. Now deceased Vishwa Hindu Parishad President Ashok Singhal had described the Narendra Modi Government as the first Hindu Government after the Mughal and British rules. But this is the illusory world of the Hindutva brigade. It is only by considering India as a Hindu Rashtra that one can go to the ludicrous extent of calling people worshipping demons as anti-national. This is similar to the application of the blasphemy law on people who denigrate Prophet Mohammed or the Quran in a Islamic state. Does this mean that were headed towards being a theocratic state? This should be a cause for concern by people who value democracy, secularism and freedom of speech.

The Hindutva lobby represents a very narrow worldview which is not shared by a large segment of the Indian population including Dalits, tribals, minorities, sections of Other Backward Castes, atheists and secularists. Together these groups would easily constitute more than half of the population. The BJP has come to power with less than half the number of votes. Hence they may have a majority in the Lok Sabha but they certainly do not enjoy the majority support.



If there are people who worship Durga in this country, there are people who worship Mahishasur. If there are people in this country who worship Ram, there are people who worship Ravan. If there are places associated with gods, there are places associated with demons. When Smriti Irani says that she is hurt by the pamphlet brought out by the Dalit, tribal, OBC students of the Jawaharlal Nehru University on the occasion of the Mahishasur Martyrdom Day which is offending towards Goddess Durga, does she even conceive that there might be people in this country whore offended by the acts of Goddess Durga? In any case, how does she think that by virtue of being a Durga devotee she is a more righteous citizen than her less privileged fellow citizens whose only fault is that they chose to worship somebody who is opposed to her deity?

This country is known for its diversity. The Sangh Parivar is bent upon destroying this diversity and wants the upper-caste point of view to prevail. Ordinarily, people believing in different thoughts have learned to co-exist in this country. When two religious communities have events on the same days, the local District Magistrate makes influential people from the two communities to sit down and works out a mutually agreeable plan so that both communities may observe their events peacefully. The BJP Government is conveying that only what is agreeable to the upper-caste point of view will be allowed in this country. The rest would be categorised as anti-national and their only place will be in jails. Hence the Hindutva mindset poses a threat to the diverse thoughts of this country as well as its democracy.

But there is an interesting twist to the whole debate. The upper-caste notion of a demon is someone possessing muscle power and also who indulges in worldly pleasures. Demon represents evil. In our democracy when people have a choice between a simple, honest, straightforward candidate who is a paragon of virtue and a criminal, mafia, domineering candidate who uses ill-gotten wealth to win the election, people have shown their preference for the latter because the common people believe that their representative should be materially and muscularly strong. These candidates are akin to demons as they have various criminal cases pending against them and have acquired wealth illegally. Does this not mean that we are a demon-worshipping people? If this is true, then by the definition of the Hindutva brigade most people of this country should fall in the category of being anti-national. Except for some bright spots like the Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement, most of the educated people in this country most of the time end up supporting corruption. People also dont have problems with criminals, especially if they belong to their own caste or religion. Shouldnt all these people be considered anti-national? If the Hindutva lobby had its way there would be more people inside the jails than outside.

When Narendra Modi ran for the post of the PM, he did not inform the people that the Hindutva brigade will have a free run in the BJP rule. He won the election on a secular agenda, promise of achche din, which everybody thought would be good governance. The people did not bargain for imposition of the Hindtuva agenda on the country. Hence Narendra Modi must seek a fresh mandate if he wants to unleash the Hindutva forces in society. The BJP Government has allowed its supporters to build an atmosphere of fear in society for anybody who doesnt agree with the Hindutva ideology. The people of India have been cheated in a democracy by a group which simply doesnt believe in democracy.

Noted social activist and Magsaysay awardee Dr Sandeep Pandey was recently sacked this year from the IIT-BHU where he was a Visiting Professor on the charge of being a Naxalite engaging in anti-national activities. He was elected along with Prof Keshav Jadhav the Vice-President of the Socialist Party (India) at its founding conference at Hyderabad on May 28-29, 2011.
Home > Archives (2006 on) > 2016 > Recalling Gandhi in Narendra Modis India

People must everywhere learn to defend themselves against misbehaving individuals, no matter who they are. The question of non-violence and violence does not arise. No doubt the non-violent is always the best, but where that does not come naturally, the violent way is both necessary and honourable. Inaction here is rank cowardice and unmanly. It must be shunned at all cost. M.K. Gandhis statement in Sevagram, June 22, 1942; published in Harijan, 28/6/1942; Collected Works, Vol. 1, LXXVI

The above quotation may sound un-Gandhian for many, and shock his devout followers. But Gandhi indeed made that statement in support of the railway hawkers who set up self-defence squads to resist depredations by British and US soldiers posted in India during the Second World War. It assumes relevance today, particularly now, when students, artists, human rights activists and other sections of Indian society are facing the Hindu nationalist Sangh Parivars formidable armed squads, which enforce Narendra Modis agenda of creating a national state of mind much like his own, and that of his political parent, the RSS. Despite occasional reports of the RSS headquarters impatience with Modis egocentric actions, both the parent and the son share the same demented singlemindedness in turning India into a Talibanised Hindu Rashtra.

The recent events in the academic institutions and universities all over India (from the Pune Film Institute to University of Hyderabad, to JNU and Jadavpur University), indicate an ominous trend. The present regime is planning to entrust the administration of these institutions to men of miserably meagre talents from within the Sangh Parivar, who with fanatical determination are pursuing the Parivars agenda of ruthless suffocation of the atmosphere of healthy debates, suppression of the growth of scientific inquiry among the students, stifling of dissenting views which challenge the conservative status quo, whether on gender issues or Kashmir (which had always enervated the atmosphere of these institutions).

What is even more alarming is the impunity with which the goons of the Sangh Parivar defy the judiciarywhich at times remains a mute spectator, if not a collaborator. Led by their MLA, one O.P. Sharma, the BJP lawyers assaulted students, journalists, and even hurled abuses on a group of Supreme Court-appointed lawyers in the premises of Patiala House Courts complex in New Delhi during February 15 and 17. The police force posted there colluded in the entire shameful act by remaining passive. No wonder, since their boss, the present Delhi Police Commissioner, in his eagerness to satisfy his super bosses in the Modi Cabinet, concocted a story of linking the JNU Students Union President Kanhaiya Kumar with the Pakistan-based terrorist leader, Hafiz Sayeed, based on some fake twitter message! Curiously enough, the lower judiciary let off the BJP MLA, O.P. Sharma (who was caught on video assaulting a student), on bail, immediately after his arrest, but it chose to put Kumar behind bars, even though there was no concrete evidence of sedition against him. So much for the independence of the members of the lower judiciary!

The BJPs Game-PlanPremonitions of an Emergency-like Situation?

The Modi Governments authoritarian inter-vention in the academic sphere, its manipulation of sections of the media in its favour by creating a hysteria that falsely depicts the universities as dens of Pakistani agents, and its defiance of the judiciaryare all of a game-plan. It is a plan to whip up a national frenzy of patriotism in the name of protecting the sovereignty of the Indian nation, and pretending to be the only custodian of that responsibility. Under that cover, Modi intends to suppress all dissentwhether Left or liberalby branding it as anti-national and the dissenters as Pakistani agents. Apart from using colonial laws in his powers as a Prime Minister, to arrest protestors on the charge of sedition, Modi, as the leader of the BJP, is unleashing his foot-soldiers (the goons of the ABVP, RSS, Bajrang Dal and other similar outfits) to attack any expression of protest against his policies.

The NDA Government is deliberately preci-pitating a situation of violent conflicts in various Statesalong religious communal lines (as evident in the active participation of the Sangh Parivar leaders in Muzaffarnagar, Dadri and other places). It then attributes these conflicts to local Muslim youth, who are arrested and branded as Pakistani agents. Even dissenters among the Hindu community who challenge superstitious religious practices are hauled up on charges of hurting religious feelings, and are entangled in long-drawn legal cases. The government is thus trying to discourage and threaten voices of dissent, by holding the Damocles sword of both the colonial sedition law, and a host of other draconian laws that the post-colonial Indian state had enacted. By branding every protest (whether in the universities or elsewhere) as anti-national and tracing it to Pakistani support (as by trying to morph Kanhaiya Kumars image against a pro-Pakistan mapin some TV channels), the NDA Government is planning to create a public paranoia about anti-national elements who are supposedly out to destroy the Indian nation!

Watching the TV anchors hysterical body language, and reading the hate messages on the social media, that echo the violent acts of the Sangh Parivar thugs and their psychopath leaders, one can understand how easy it is for a BJP-run Centre to mould public opinion through a subservient media, and persuade a substantial section of Indians, and even its educated elements, to sanction lynching of Muslims (branded as Pakistani agents), persecution of dissenters from within the Hindu community on the flimsy ground of hurting religious sentiments, and even killing of rationalists who dare to oppose Hindu superstitious beliefs and practices.

At the same time, Modi is putting up a brilliant masquerade as a global entertainertrying to induce foreign investors, and impress the starry-eyed NRI diaspora. Whether the Indian media-hyped rhetoric of Modis promises will be translated into the shape of funds pouring into the sagging Indian economy is yet to be tested during the remaining years of his tenure.

Urgent Need for a Multi-pronged Strategy of Resistance

Meanwhile, India will have to suffer the Modi Government for the next three years. Our electorate are paying the price for allowing themselves (or at least one-third of them) to be used as a bargaining chip in a cynical political showdown between a corrupt and inept UPA II Government and a cunningly opportunist BJP ready to jump into the vacuum of public disenchantment. Through the present first-past-the-post electoral system, the BJP-led NDA managed to swindle its way into the Lok Sabha and put in position of power a banal personality as the Prime Minister, who is one of the iconographers of fascist Hindutva with the ghastly record of presiding over the massacre of Muslims in his own State of Gujarat as its Chief Minister. Narendra Modis elevation to the position of Indias Prime Minister is one of the most shameful episodes in the history of the countrys parliamentary democracy.

In order to get rid of this government, we have to wait for the next general elections in 2019or if a situation arises on the waves of a national mass movement which forces the Modi Government to resign and face a mid-term poll. Either way, we have to prepare for a multi-pronged set of strategies and tactics.

The immediate need is to resist the armed thugs of the Sangh Parivar, whenever they disrupt public meetings, debates, discussions, film shows, theatres and exhibitions which assert freedom of expression of secular ideas and democratic rights. Since we cannot depend on the policewhich acts as an agent of the ruling BJPwe have to build up our own mechanisms of self-protection. But the prerequsite for that is the twin task of creation of public opinion and mobilisation of vast sections of the people in the streets against the hoodlums of the Parivar. The first task involves a widespread campaign to (i) expose the Parivars hypocritical claims of patriotism by disclosing the treacherous role of their leaders during the national movementbeginning from Savarkars abject surrender to the British Government in his petition from Andaman Jail (dated November 14, 1913), where he promised to work as its agent if released, to Atal Behari Vajpayees confessional statement to a Magistrate on September 1, 1942, naming two friends of his who participated in the Quit-India movement, which led to their arrest and conviction; (ii) reveal the opportunist role of the RSS leaders, like Balasaheb Deoras, who, when jailed during the Emergency, wrote a letter to Indira Gandhi (dated August 22, 1975) begging her to lift the ban on the RSS, and offering in exchange the services of his followers to implement the Emergency. Equally shameful was Nanaji Deshmukhs open statement in support of the Hindu killers of Sikhs in 1984, where he said that the Sikhs deserved their fate for their departure from the orthodox Hindu fold (reproduced in the Hindi journal, Pratipaksh, November 25, 1984); and (iii) nail the BJP-led present government for its failure on every fronteconomic, social, culturala record of stunning incompetence by a gang of uncivilised leaders, irredeemably orthodox in their beliefs and vulgar in their manners.

The next stage is to organise self-defence squads from among the citizens in urban mohallas and rural clusters, industrial hubs and educational institutions, to resist the Sangh Parivars thugs. If necessary, we should be prepared to face them with armed resistance. Let us not be squeamish about the use of violence at certain times. I began with a quotation from Gandhis writing, and continuing in the same vein, let me end with another quote from him. On November 6, 1946, Gandhi on his way to Noakhali in East Bengal, met in Chandpur a deputation of Hindus who were at one time armed revolutionaries, and who now sought Gandhis advice as to how to resist the communal onslaught. Gandhi said: I have not asked you to discard the use of arms (to resist it)...., but then he added a note of caution: Even violence has its code of ethics. For instance, to butcher helpless old men, women and children is not bravery, but rank cowardice....Use your arms well, if you must. Do not ill use them... (PyarelalMahatma Gandhi, The Last Phase, Part I, Vol. IX, Book Two, Navjivan Publishing House, Ahmedabad, 1956, pp. 16-18).

The time has come to use our arms well.

Sumanta Banerjee is a well-known writer, journalist and columnist with a deep commitment to the Left and human rights movement. Some of his better known books incude In the Wake of Naxalbari:A History of the Naxalite Movement (2008), The Parlour and the Streets: Elite and Popular Culture in NineteenthCentury Calcutta (1998), The Wicked City: Crime and Punishment in Colonial Calcutta (2009), Crime and Urbani-sation: Calcutta in the Nineteenth Century (2006).
Also on the blog this week:

Join our first Africa Roadshow in NYC or via the web

In our news and analysis:

The practical impact of the Trunki case

Interview: IP Federation President Carol Arnold of Shell

Far-reaching impacts of Federal Circuit ruling on ANDA personal jurisdiction

How to manage brand protection internally

The advantages of numeral word labelling

How Scotch Whisky protects its GI - report from the ITMA Spring Meeting

Horacio Gutierrez takes Spotify role, and other US people moves

Samsung v Apple at the US Supreme Court  the issues to watch

Venue Act introduced in US Senate to change patent venue law

Sequenom petitions Supreme Court

Pharmaceutical company Sequenom has filed a petition for cert to the Supreme Court, asking for review of a controversial Federal Circuit decision last year.

The appeal court disappointed many patent practitioners in Ariosa v Sequenom, in which it held Sequenoms diagnostic method claims invalid under Section 101..

With no relief from Congress on the horizon, this filing puts at least the near-term future of diagnostic method patents at the mercy of the Supreme Court, noted Foley & Lardners Courtenay Brinckerhoff on the PharmaPatents blog. Will the Court agree that its  101 jurisprudence has been taken too far, or will it decide that diagnostic methods really cannot be patented?

The brief presents the following question:

Whether a novel method is patent-eligible where: (1) a researcher is the first to discover a natural phenomenon; (2) that unique knowledge motivates him to apply a new combination of known techniques to that discovery; and (3) he thereby achieves a previously impossible result without preempting other uses of the discovery?

Sequenom argues that the Federal Circuits opinion has dangerously overextended Mayo.

In its brief it argues that cert should be granted because of the support it has (12 amicus briefs have been filed in support), the threat the decision poses to the predictability of the US patent system, and the effect it has in placing the US out of line internationally on the issue of patent eligibility.

DOJ files Cuozzo brief

In other Supreme Court IP news, the US Department of Justice last week filed its brief in Cuozzo v Lee, reports the Patents Post-Grant blog.

The government argues that the broadest reasonable interpretation is applicable in inter partes review proceedings at the PTAB. The DOH also argued that IPRs include many mechanisms that differ from a lower evidentiary standard.

Israel joins Marrakesh

WIPO last week received Israels instrument of accession to the Marrakesh Treaty from the countrys justice minister Ayelet Shaked.

It becomes the 16th country to the join the treaty, the full name of which is the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired or Otherwise Print Disabled.

The treaty needs 20 ratifications to come into force.

This may take some time, however.

Germanys Julia Reda, the Pirate Partys sole representative in the European Parliament, earlier this month published a blog post outlining why some EU governments including Germany and the UK are dragging their feet over the Marrakesh Treaty, which was finalised in June 2013.

Dont mention the IP law

Former Monty Python member John Cleese this week said he may sue an Australian theatre company for a shameless rip-off of the 1970s sitcom Fawlty Towers, which he created with Connie Booth, reports the BBC.

Cleese said the Faulty Towers Dining Experience had not sought permission to use its title, themes or characters.

Dear David Seems they thought that by not asking, and by changing the 'w' to a 'u',they'd be in the clear! Hilarious https://t.co/Px0xQxKAMr  John Cleese (@JohnCleese) March 23, 2016

The Australian show has been running since the early 1990s, and has been staged in Sydney, London and elsewhere. Reports claim the show makes $1.4 million a year. However, its production company Imagination Workshop told the BBC it makes "nothing like" those revenues.

"We are not an unauthorised rip-off show  anyone who knows the law in this area will understand that we do not require authorisation to use the concept of Fawlty Towers, the company told the BBC.

Koh stays Apple case

Following the Supreme Court taking on Samsungs appeal of its design patent dispute with Apple last week, Judge Lucy Koh has stayed a case between the two companies.

The retrial was due to start on March 28 in the Central District of California, reports Reuters.

The new case was to hear damages questions remaining from the 2012 trial.

The question of the proper measure of damages from these design patents is central to the 2016 damages retrial, as design patent damages make up the bulk of Apples damages claims, wrote Koh.

McCartney moves to reclaim Beatles publishing rights

Sir Paul McCartney is trying to reclaim the publishing rights to The Beatles back catalogue in the US, reports Billboard.

McCartney has filed a termination notice for 32 songs with the US Copyright Office. The US Copyright Act gives writers the chance to reclaim rights after 56 years, meaning the Beatles songs begin to become available in 2018. .

Many of the 32 songs were released in 1962, 1963 and 1964, although 15 of them date from 1969 and 1970, such as Come Together and Why Dont We Do It In the Road.

Under a deal cut early in The Beatles career John Lennon and McCartney were given a 15% share of the publishing company formed for the band, with George Harrison and Ringo Starr reportedly receiving 0.8%.
There is a very good reason why we train here, said Maj. Clemens Buter, the lead planner of the Dutch bi-lateral training with the 32nd Raiding Company. We have to operate all over the world together, so we need to train together as well. This is to ensure we have similar procedures and we know we can rely on each other when its really necessary. The best way to be prepared is to train together, and Camp Lejeune provides us that opportunity.



Throughout the month, the Dutch Marines conducted various exercises including live-fire shoot-houses and Fast Raiding Intercepting Special Forces Craft maneuvers, conducted urban climbing exercises, and completed scenarios involving role players and casualties.



Due to limited training facilities at their home base of Aruba, a tiny Dutch Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela, they visit Camp Lejeune to not only utilize the facilities, but to compare and share their own tactics, techniques and procedures.



When you work with units from different countries, you always learn from each other, said Sgt. Dennis Godderij, the section leader of Recon Sniper Troop, 2nd Marine Combat Group. One unit may have more experience in one area, while another unit has more experience in another area.



The Dutch Marines were granted access to various assets, such as air support from V-22 Ospreys, CH-53 Super Stallions and support from the U.S. Coast Guard during maneuvers on the intercoastal waterway.



This is a yearly occurrence that a Dutch Marine company comes to Camp Lejeune to conduct training, said Capt. Cory Moyer, the Dutch Liaison Officer with 2nd Recon. Later in the year, theyll return the favor for us to go down to Aruba to conduct amphibious operations and continue to build on that relationship.





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Behind every operation a military unit conducts, there is a group of people that work behind the scenes to make everything happen. That group makes sure there are vehicles for transportation; water and food for the troops; medical treatment if needed; and ammunition for the operation. In the case of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, that group of people is Combat Logistics Battalion 31.



The Marines and sailors of CLB 31 deployed to the Republic of Korea as the logistics component of 31st MEU in support of exercise Ssang Yong 16. Ssang Yong is a biennial combined amphibious exercise conducted by forward-deployed U.S. forces with the Republic of Korea Navy and Marine Corps, Australian Army and Royal New Zealand Army forces in order to strengthen interoperability and working relationships across a wide range of military operations - from disaster relief to complex expeditionary operations. CLB 31 provided logistics, security, medical and range support to the Marines of 31st MEU, allowing them to conduct multiple complex training scenarios over the course of the MEUs participation in Ssang Yong.



The military police officers of CLB 31s MP detachment even pulled double duty. In addition to providing force protection to the MEU Marines ashore at Camp Mujuk in Pohang, South Korea, the MPs augmented the Camp Mujuk provost marshals office in support of exercise Key Resolve, an annual command post exercise.



According to Lance Cpl. Kenneth Rodriguez, a fireteam leader in the MP Detachment, the MPs ran multiple entry control points, checked vehicles and personnel coming through the gate and helped maintain security on the camp hand-in-hand with the Camp Mujuk PMO.



We overlook everything from manning the front gate to manning ECPs, making sure that everybody stays safe and everybody who is authorized to be in certain areas are in those areas, explained Rodriguez. We are making sure they have the proper clearance.



In addition to the military police keeping the 31st MEU Marines and sailors safe, CLB set up a shock trauma platoon. The STP is a just-in-case force used to support any operation by standing by with medical care in the event of any injuries.



The shock trauma platoon is a Role 2 capability, meaning we have a level of medical care that is just below a major hospital with surgery, said Lt. Cmdr. Andrew Sheep, the officer in-charge of the STP. Our domain is the golden hour, meaning the hour after the initial injury. That is when most preventable deaths happen and that is the reason we are there to mitigate that golden hour so people can survive and either get back into the fight or to go on to a greater level of care.



Ssang Yong had no major casualties, and minor casualties that did occur were able to be treated quickly and effectively, according to Sheep. The MEU was able to conduct all their ranges safely due in part to the presence of CLB 31s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team.



CLBs EOD section conducted surface clearance operations for conventional and unexploded ordnance before the ranges for Ssang Yong began, said Chief Warrant Officer Steven Tamm, the MEUs EOD officer. After the ranges began we were on standby to remove any lodged projectiles from the weapon systems fired on the ranges, from the 40mm grenades all the way to the M777 howitzers.



CLB 31 not only supported Ssang Yong with security, the STP and EOD but also with the small common necessities that everyone is used to. The CLB made sure all the Marines and sailors participating had fuel, food, water and bathrooms while they were out in the field.



CLBs main role was to support the warfighters during Ssang Yong, said Sheep.



I believe this Ssang Yong went excellently, but I do not believe Ssang Yong could have been completed to the level it was intended without CLB, said Tamm.





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The task forces Marines and Sailors are deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility with a crisis response mission spanning 20 nations.



During the graduation ceremony, Silliman highlighted the commitment and sacrifices service members make on a daily basis, and reiterated the importance of being a good leader.



It is my pleasure to be here to congratulate the graduates of the Corporals Course for the work that they have done, said Silliman. I want to thank the men and women who have been through this difficult course, first of all for their commitment to their country, secondly for their commitment to their service and third, and probably most importantly, for their commitment for improving themselves and making themselves better in their jobs and skills.



Although the units mindset is an operational one, the Marines take any opportunity granted to sharpen their leadership skills and complete enlisted professional military education requirements.



Headquarters Company of SPMAGTF-CR-CC conducted a total of four iterations of Corporals Course, graduating over 160 students from the joint branches.



The course entailed the [period of instruction] courses given to us from [Headquarters, Marine Corps in] Quantico, Virginia, said U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Alfonso Lopez, the company first sergeant for HQs Company and assistant director for the course. We were able to put four classes together there was not too much difference, because we had the same resources as [back home] as far as materials. We had capabilities of putting the students workbooks together; we had swords and guide-on sticks, which we used for drill.



The course counted on nine faculty advisors, of which two were staff noncommissioned officers (SNCOs) and seven sergeants.



All faculty advisors were volunteers from across the task force, and due to the fact that they are in a deployed setting, they performed their instructor and mentor duties in addition to their mission obligations.



I volunteered to be an instructor to challenge myself and to lead corporals, said U.S. Marine Sgt. Ricardo Guerra, a faculty advisor for the course. It was a chance to take on a collateral billet, break everyday routines, and put myself out of my comfort zone.



The course took the Marines on a leadership journey. It taught the corporals how to handle and perform sword and guide-on manual, as well as drill.

[Noncommissioned officers] are leaders by the rank that they wear, said Lopez. The training that we give them is more tools for their toolbox, and they get to sharpen them and use those tools to make them better leaders (in the Corps), not just in their [work sections] but also outside of their [work sections].



The three-week course also reiterated Marine Corps customs, history, leadership traits and it indoctrinated an NCO mentality in the corporals for the first time.



I hope that the students take what they learned throughout the course and apply it to their individual sections and their everyday lives, said Guerra. Every Marine takes certain traits from their leaders. If I have affected even one of them in a positive way, I am satisfied.



Sillimans visit reinforced the value of being strong leaders and was an exclusive one, the SPMAGTF-CR-CC Marines and Sailors were pleased to host him as their guest.



It is very distinct and unique that you have someone of that stature to be the guest speaker, said Lopez. I think that was the cherry on top to finish our last course.



Guerra added that the students were also honored to have the U.S. ambassador speak at their graduation.





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The European Union Is Not a Security Union

In the wake of any shocking event, national governments and officials of the European Union invariably call for more cooperation between member states to prevent anything similar happening in the future. The response to the March 22 terrorist attacks in Brussels has been no different.

Following the attacks, the governments of Germany, Italy, France and members of the European Commission demanded a global response to the terrorist threat. The commission's president, Jean-Claude Juncker, even proposed the creation of a "security union" to combat terrorism at the continental level. In a March 24 meeting, ministers at the EU Justice and Home Affairs Council highlighted the need to share information among member states to fight terrorism. But despite the calls for greater cooperation among EU members, the national interests of individual member states will prevail in the long run, limiting the possibility of integration within the bloc on security issues.

Analysis

As it stands, the European Union already has several continent-wide security structures in place. The European Police Office (Europol) handles criminal intelligence and combats international organized crime, while Frontex manages cooperation between the national border guards that secure the European Union's external borders. Eurojust, in turn, coordinates investigations and prosecutions among EU members, especially for transnational crimes. Because their duties are mainly logistical, coordinating efforts and resources among states, these agencies have little staff and equipment of their own.

The European Union faces obstacles to establishing a unified security network. For one thing, the organization's 28 member states have different priorities, resources, and levels of expertise when it comes to fighting international crime and terrorism. Large countries such as France, the United Kingdom and Germany have significant counterterrorism experience and enough human and material resources to maintain sophisticated intelligence and anti-terrorism agencies. This is not true of smaller countries with less expertise and smaller budgets  and even less so during economic crises, when smaller governments must weigh financing their security apparatus against controlling fiscal deficits.

The Brussels attacks revealed the shortcomings of the Belgian security establishment, which is relatively small compared to the growing numbers of jihadists returning from abroad authorities must now monitor  on top of a large number of potential terrorists radicalized domestically. For EU member states, the terrorist threat justifies a return to public spending after years of austerity. But even wealthy members are dealing with limited resources: On March 23, the German government announced a plan to increase its domestic security budget by 2.1 billion euros (around $2.3 billion) by 2020, but the deputy chairman of the German Federal Police warned the additional funds were far from adequate.

Barriers to Coordination

Along with budgetary concerns  a challenge for most security agencies in the world  EU members also contend with an environment where people move freely between countries, yet government intelligence does not. In the hours and days that followed the Brussels attacks, several EU governments stated that member countries should share more information about potential security threats, as they did in the wake of the November Paris attacks. But German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere admitted that EU governments don't want to share all of their information with their peers, further noting that the EU and national governments have separate data pools that are not linked.

The fact that one of the Belgium suicide bombers had been arrested in Turkey and deported to the Netherlands, where he was released, highlights the failure to coordinate. Translation issues between European governments only exacerbate the problem, and EU members use varying systems to transliterate Arabic names, which can lead to clerical errors.

A Question of Sovereignty

On the surface, enhanced intelligence sharing makes sense. In a continent where goods, people and services are already allowed to move freely from one nation to another, a freer exchange of information would be a logical step. However, Europe's limited cooperation in security matters is a reminder that, even after six decades of integration, the EU remains, to a certain extent, a pact among nation states. Though member countries are willing to give up sovereignty on issues such as trade or labor, they have trouble making concessions in sensitive areas such as national security. EU treaties recognize this, which explains why issues related to the monetary union or the free trade zone are voted by qualified majority, while security or foreign policy issues are decided unanimously  thus giving veto power to each member.

There is an argument that an era of global threats  ranging from terrorism to trade competition  calls for a global reaction. But the European Union has reached a point where further integration among member states will require them to give up prerogatives that are just too crucial. And the problem extends well beyond security issues: EU members are also struggling to create a system in which wealth from Northern Europe is redistributed to the south and member states lose control of fiscal policy. Since the European Union is unlikely to evolve into the "United States of Europe," the continent is also unlikely to have a European Federal Bureau of Intelligence, let alone a federal military. (Most EU members participate in NATO, but this is not the same as dissolving their national militaries into an EU military.) Creating continent-wide structures such as these would require a treaty change, a decision that member states are unlikely to make, given the rise of nationalist sentiments in Europe.

Europe's economic crisis quickly evolved into an unemployment crisis and then into a political crisis. Immigration and terrorism are only adding to Europe's political fragmentation, and member states are having more and more difficulty coming up with coherent responses. In this context, national decisions are replacing EU policy. For example, individual member states are opposing the introduction of refugee quotas and fighting to preserve border controls. Moderate political parties still defend the merits of the Schengen Agreement and the free movement of labor in Europe, but a burgeoning nationalist opposition movement demands reinstatement of national borders and tougher laws on immigration. And as terrorism and immigration cause voters to fear for their jobs and personal security, their voices will grow louder.

Despite the discord, additional cooperation on security issues is not impossible for the European Union. In the months to come, agencies such as Europol and Frontex will probably be given more resources, and the European Union will discuss plans for a stronger continental border and coast guard. The European Commission will also push for greater integration among security databases and an increase in security measures at airports. But the bloc will continue to encounter problems related to its fragmented security environment, simply because its very nature makes achieving a coherent response elusive. In fact, future EU governments may choose to reverse some aspects of continental integration to improve domestic security.

"The European Union Is Not a Security Union is republished with permission of Stratfor."

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Palmyra, West More Concerned with Rubble in the Desert than Syrian 'Human' Lives, Assad Propaganda

I am increasingly finding the mainstream press reporting on the Syria conflict as completely ridiculous, akin to something out of a third world dictatorships propaganda war. This is most clearly illustrated by the barrage of stories over the past week concerning the Assad regime fighting to save Syria's Palmyra site, which is falling straight into the Assad's monstrous regimes propaganda to appease the sheeple of the west, who apparently forgotten about thousands of barrel bombs and Russian cluster bombs dropped on civilian areas.

So let me get this straight, some rubble in the desert that 99.9% did not even know existed until very recently is apparently far, far more important a story than the 450,000 syrians killed, most by Assad?

I contend that the rubble in the desert is not worth ONE human life, let alone near half a million!

After all would you sacrifice your child for some rubble in the desert?

if the Palmyra story is not indicative of a propaganda machine at work in the west then what is ?

The bottom line is that Assad's regime has many multiples more of bloodshed on its hands then ISIS and should be seen for the threat that it is, of course the Assad threat is mostly to Syrians, Lebanese and Jordanians, and to a lesser degree Turkey, whilst ISIS seeks to expand its conflict to into Europe. Thus ignore the ongoing slaughter that experiences worse than a Brussels every DAY and instead focus on Assad's propaganda of liberating some rubble in the desert because it was formerly held by the Islamic State that had been busy looting it to SELL to Western antiquities dealers.

For the reality of the Syrian civil war see my recent video -

https://youtu.be/ZkjhBrY9X6U

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Bank Deposits That Go To Zero and Capital Controls for Two Years

Canada has joined the bail-in posse.

Canada will introduce legislation to implement a bail-in regime for systemically important banks that would shift some of the responsibility for propping up failing institutions to creditors.

The proposed plan outlined in the federal budget released on Tuesday would allow authorities to convert eligible long-term debt of a failing lender into common shares in order to recapitalize the bank, allowing it to remain operating.

Source: CNBC

The above story suggests that only bondholders would be at risk of a bail-in but we all know that is just some sugar to make whats coming go down easier.

Whats coming?

Savings deposits being used to bail-in banks. Legislation is in the works in Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Germany, and even the US to do precisely this.

This whole template was laid out in Europe in 2012. Europe is ground zero for Keynesian Central Planning: a massive welfare state overseen by non-elected officials and Central Bankers who willingly break the rule of law whenever it suits them,

The guinea pig for the template was Cyprus.

The quick timeline for what happened in Cyprus is as follows:

June 25, 2012: Cyprus formally requests a bailout from the EU.

November 24, 2012: Cyprus announces it has reached an agreement with the EU the bailout process once Cyprus banks are examined by EU officials (ballpark estimate of capital needed is 17.5 billion).

February 25, 2013: Democratic Rally candidate Nicos Anastasiades wins Cypriot election defeating his opponent, an anti-austerity Communist.

March 16 2013: Cyprus announces the terms of its bail-in: a 6.75% confiscation of accounts under 100,000 and 9.9% for accounts larger than 100,000 a bank holiday is announced.

March 17 2013: emergency session of Parliament to vote on bailout/bail-in is postponed.

March 18 2013: Bank holiday extended until March 21 2013.

March 19 2013: Cyprus parliament rejects bail-in bill.

March 20 2013: Bank holiday extended until March 26 2013.

March 24 2013: Cash limits of 100 in withdrawals begin for largest banks in Cyprus.

March 25 2013: Bail-in deal agreed upon. Those depositors with over 100,000 either lose 40% of their money (Bank of Cyprus) or lose 60% (Laiki).

The most important thing we want you to focus on is how lies and propaganda were spread for months leading up to the collapse. Then in the space of a single weekend, the whole mess came unhinged and accounts were frozen.

One weekend. The process was not gradual. It was sudden and it was total: once it began in earnest, the banks were closed and you couldnt get your money out.

Depositors lost between 40% and 60% of their savings above 100,000 as it was converted into bank equity. However, once it became equity, it could go to ZERO just like any stock.

Thats precisely what happened.

Account holders at Bank of Cyprus lost almost half their money above the 100,000 level, receiving stock in the bank as compensation. Those shares have since plummeted in value.

Uninsured depositors in Laiki Bank, also known as Cyprus Popular Bank, the nations second-largest lender, lost everything because the bank failed.

Source: NY TIMES.

As for those trying to get their money out of Cyprus, it took TWO YEARS before the final capital controls were lifted.

And the last remaining restrictions on transfers of money outside of Cyprus, imposed two years ago, will be lifted next month (APRIL 2015), said Chrystalla Georghadji, the governor of the countrys central bank.

Source: NY TIMES.

So depositors had 40% to 60% of their deposits above 100,000 converted into bank equity equity which could then go to ZERO and those who tried to get their money out of the country had restrictions in place for TWO YEARS.

This is the template for whats going to be implemented globally in the coming months. When push comes to shove, it will be taxpayers, NOT Central Banks who are on the hook for the next round of bailouts.

Indeed, weve uncovered a secret document outlining how the Feds plan to take hold of savings during the next round of the crisis to stop individuals from getting their money out.

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RICHMOND  Former Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Mark Kelly, will bring their national campaign for stricter gun laws to Virginia on Tuesday.

The move comes about a month after Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed into law a package of gun bills resulting from a compromise with Republican lawmakers and the National Rifle Association.

The deal cost McAuliffe support of some of his strongest allies in the fight for gun control, but Giffords, a Democrat, and Kelly, a Navy combat veteran and retired NASA astronaut, have not taken a public position on it.

Americans for Responsible Solutions  the group they formed after the former Democratic congresswoman was seriously wounded in a 2011 shooting in Tucson that killed six people  helped fund McAuliffes failed attempt last year to win control of the state Senate.

On Tuesday, Giffords and Kelly will introduce a panel of advocates from law enforcement, faith, domestic violence prevention and mental health communities, a strategy they also followed in New Hampshire, Minnesota, Oregon, and  as of Monday  Delaware.

They will push for mandatory background checks at gun shows, which are not currently required in Virginia.

In the deal struck during the recent legislative session, gun rights supporters agreed to one concession in this area  to require state police at all gun shows to perform the checks but only if buyers and sellers agree.

Lawmakers also agreed to tighten restrictions on domestic abusers in exchange for a big prize for the gun rights community: nearly universal recognition in Virginia of concealed-carry handgun permits from around the country.

The voluntary nature of the background checks law makes it too weak for gun control groups such as Everytown for Gun Safety, the group backed by former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg that strongly rebuked McAuliffe for making the deal.

Another critic of the deal is Lori Haas, whose daughter was shot and injured in the 2007 Virginia Tech campus shooting.

Haas, Virginia state director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, will sit on Giffords and Kellys Virginia Coalition for Common Sense with Tim Heaphy, former U.S. attorney for the Western District of Virginia.

Kristine Hall of the Virginia Sexual & Domestic Violence Action Alliance and Conaway Haskins, who was state director for former U.S. Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., are part of the coalition as well.
TODAYS WORD is receptive (re-sep-tiv). Example: When you are in a more receptive mood, I would like to discuss how you plan to pay these bills.

SUNDAYS WORD was surreal (suh-reel). It means very strange or unusual: having the quality of a dream; marked by intense irrational reality of a dream: unbelievable. Example: When I woke up after the surgery, I felt as though I was in a surreal environment because of the anesthesia.

Two blood drives are coming up locally in a couple of weeks and the American Red Cross has an urgent need for type O negative blood donors to donate blood for patients. Type O negative blood can be transfused to patients with any blood type and is often used in trauma situations.

Blackberry Baptist Church will host a Red Cross Blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. on Friday, April 1 at the church at 3241 Stones Dairy Road, Bassett, and a blood drive will be held from noon until 5 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, at the blood donation center in the Collinsville Shopping Center.

Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information.

Clara Barton is one of the most honored women in American history. How well do you know Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross in 1881? Take the quiz.

1. Barton started teaching while still a teenager at a time when most teachers were men. After gaining some experience, did she

a) Serve as the first ever female principal of the school

b) Demand to be paid an equal wage to her male colleagues

c) Organize for womens suffrage over the objections of male teachers

d) Protest hiring practices that discriminated against female teachers

Answer: When offered a lower salary than her male colleagues at the school, Clara Barton demanded equal pay, saying: "I may sometimes be willing to teach for nothing, but if paid at all, I shall never do a mans work for less than a mans pay." Her resolve and reputation as a teacher won out and she was paid the same as the male teachers.

2. Clara Barton was working as one of the first female employees in the federal government when the first units of federal troops poured into the city in 1861, many of them wounded, hungry and with only the clothing on their backs. At which U.S. agency was Clara Barton employed before beginning her Civil War service?

a) Department of Education

b) Library of Congress

c) Forest Service

d) U.S. Patent Office

Answer: Clara Barton was a recording clerk in the U.S. Patent Office in Washington, D.C when the Civil War began. After tending to soldiers in the nations capital, she soon realized that where she was needed most was not behind the lines in Washington but on the battlefields where the suffering was greatest. She risked her life bringing supplies and support to soldiers in the field and earned the moniker "Angel of the Battlefield".

3. With Clara Barton at its head, the Red Cross responded to disasters all over the country in its early years. During which of the following operations did the American Red Cross help respond to in 1881?

a) Providing clothing and financial assistance to forest fire victims in Michigan

b) Sending 50 volunteers to help the survivors of a dam break that killed 2,000 residents in Johnstown, Pennsylvania

c) Helping to rebuild the agricultural economy in the Sea Islands of South Carolina after a devastating hurricane

d) Distributing financial assistance and supplies in the wake of a tidal wave and hurricane in Galveston, Texas

Answer: The Red Cross responded to all four of these disasters within its first 10 years, but the first disaster they helped with was a forest fire in Michigan that burned through a million acres in 24 hours, claiming almost 300 lives and leaving thousands homeless. The American Red Cross and other relief groups raised funds to send food and other supplies to Michigan. The next year, President Chester Arthur and the U.S. Senate officially recognized the American Red Cross on March 16, 1882.
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This Easter marks the 85th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin (Ireland) against British imperialist rule. The outstanding leader of that movement was James Connolly. There have been many attempts to portray him simply as an Irish nationalist. But Connolly was, first and foremost, a militant workers' leader and a Marxist. He alone in the annals of the British and Irish Labour Movement succeeded in developing the ideas of Marxism.

Born in 1868 into a poor family in Edinburgh, James Connolly was a genuine proletarian. His working life commenced at the age of ten. All his life he lived and breathed the world of the working class, shared in its trials and tribulations, suffered from its defeats and exulted in its victories. Connolly was a self-educated man who became a brilliant speaker and writer. He alone in the annals of the British and Irish Labour Movement succeeded in developing the ideas of Marxism.

On the basis of a careful study of the writings of Marx and Engels, he developed an independent standpoint and made an original contribution. Even more remarkably, he did this without the benefit of direct contact with the other outstanding Marxist thinkers of the time: Lenin, Trotsky or Luxemburg.

From the first, Connolly had to contend with the same problems that blighted the existence of the rest of his class: dire and unrelieved poverty, which at times made it all but impossible for him to feed his family. But nothing could deter him from his chosen path. With unceasing vigour and absolute single-mindedness, Connolly fought for socialism. The programme of the Irish Socialist Republican Party, written by Connolly, was not a nationalist but a socialist programme based upon:

"Establishment of AN IRISH SOCIALIST REPUBLIC based on the public ownership by the Irish people of the land, and instruments of production, distribution and exchange. Agriculture to be administered as a public function, under boards of management elected by the agricultural population and responsible to them and to the nation at large. All other forms of labour necessary to the well-being of the community to be conducted on the same principles."

Connolly was, first and foremost, a militant workers' leader. The Irish Transport and General Workers' Union (ITGWU), under the leadership of Larkin and Connolly, led the stormy wave of class struggle that shook Ireland to its foundations in the years before 1914. Rarely have these Islands seen such a level of bitter class conflict. This affected not only Dublin but also Belfast, where Connolly succeeded in uniting Catholic and Protestant workers in struggle against the employers. In October 1911 he led the famous Belfast Textile workers strike and organised the workers of that sector - predominately low-paid and very exploited women.

The wave of strikes was countered by the employers in the notorious Dublin lockout of 1913. Here we saw the real face of the Irish bourgeoisie: grasping, repressive, reactionary. The Dublin bosses, organised by William Martin Murphy, the chairman of the Employers' Federation and owner of the Irish Independent newspaper, set out to crush the workers and their organisations. The ITGWU replied by blacking Murphy's newspapers, and he retaliated by locking out all ITGWU members.

The issue of class unity runs like a red thread through all the writings and speeches of Connolly: "Perhaps they will see that the landlord who grinds his peasants on a Connemara estate, and the landlord who rack-rents them in a Cowgate slum, are brethren in fact and deed. Perhaps they will realise that the Irish worker who starves in an Irish cabin and the Scots worker who is poisoned in an Edinburgh garret are brothers with one hope and destiny." (C.D. Greaves, James Connolly, p. 61.)

Throughout the lockout, Larkin and Connolly repeatedly appealed to the class solidarity of the British workers. They addressed mass rallies in England, Scotland and Wales, which were also the scene of big class battles in the years before the war. The appeal of the Irish workers did not fall on deaf ears. Their cause was enthusiastically supported by the rank and file of the British movement, although the right wing Labour leaders were preparing to ditch the Irish workers as soon as the opportunity presented itself. Despite the solidarity and sympathy of the workers of Britain, the trade union leaders refused to organise solidarity strikes, the only way that victory could have been achieved. In the end, the workers were starved back to work. Bitterly, Connolly noted:

"And so we Irish workers must again go down to Hell, bow our backs to the last of the slave drivers, let our hearts be seared by the iron of his hatred and instead of the sacramental wafer of brotherhood and common sacrifice, eat the dust of defeat and betrayal. Dublin is isolated." (p. 23)

The Citizen's Army

In the years preceding World War One, the British ruling class was facing revolutionary developments in Ireland and in Britain. In order to head off the danger of revolution, they resorted to the "Orange card". Lord Carson organised and armed the hooligans of the Belfast slums in the Ulster Volunteers, pledged to resist Irish Home Rule by force. When the Liberal government in London contemplated using the British army in Ireland, they were met with the "mutiny at the Curragh". Connolly remained firm in the face of the sectarian madness. He organised a Labour demonstration under the auspices of the ITGWU, "the only union that allows no bigotry in its ranks." In answer to the sectarians and religious bigots, he declared class war, issuing his famous manifesto: "To the Linen Slaves of Belfast".

In order to protect themselves against the brutal attacks of police and hired thugs of the employers, the workers set up their own defence force: the Irish Citizens' Army (ICA). This was the first time in these Islands that workers had organised themselves on an armed basis to defend themselves against the common enemy: the bosses and the scabs. The latter, it should be remembered, were much more numerous than at the present time, as a result of the widespread conditions of poverty and despair. The two main leaders were Connolly (himself an ex-soldier) and Captain Jack J. White DSO - a Protestant Ulsterman. But Connolly saw the ICA not only as a defence force, but as a revolutionary army, dedicated to the overthrow of capitalism and imperialism. He wrote:

"An armed organisation of the Irish working class is a phenomenon in Ireland. Hitherto, the workers of Ireland have fought as parts of the armies led by their masters, never as a member of any army officered, trained, and inspired by men of their own class. Now, with arms in their hands, they propose to steer their own course, to carve their own future." (Workers Republic, 30 October 1915)

As we see from these lines, Connolly envisaged the ICA in class terms, as an organisation organically linked to the mass organisations of the proletariat. It was funded out of the subscriptions of the members of the union, and its activities were organised from Liberty Hall, the headquarters of the ITGWU in Dublin. The Citizens Army drilled and paraded openly on the streets of Dublin for several years before 1916. Here was no secret organisation engaged in the methods of individual terrorism, but a genuine workers' militia: the first workers' Red Army in Europe.

Unfortunately, the movement in the direction of revolution in Ireland was rudely cut across by the outbreak of the First World War. In August 1914, despite all the resolutions passed by the congresses of the Socialist International, every one of the leaderships of the Social Democratic Parties betrayed the cause of socialist internationalism and voted for the War. The only honourable exceptions were the Russians, the Serbs - and the Irish. Right from the start, Connolly adopted an unswerving internationalist stance, which was, in all fundamentals, identical with the position adopted by Lenin.

Commenting on the betrayal of the leaders of the Socialist International, he wrote in Forward (15 August, 1914):

"What then becomes of all our resolutions; all our protests of fraternisation; all our threats of general strikes; all our carefully built machinery of internationalism; all our hopes for the future?"

And he reached the same conclusion as Lenin. In answer to the kind of pacifism that was the hallmark of Labour Lefts such as Ramsay MacDonald (at that time) and the leaders of the ILP, he wrote:

"A great continental uprising of the working class would stop the war; a universal protest at public meetings would not save a single life from being wantonly slaughtered."

Connolly was not just a socialist, not just a revolutionary: he was an internationalist to the marrow of his bones.

The Easter Rising

From the start of the War, Connolly was virtually isolated. Internationally, he had no contact. Outside of Ireland, the Labour Movement seemed to be as silent as the grave. True, there were symptoms of a revival in Britain, with the Glasgow rent strike of 1915. But Connolly feared that the workers of Britain would move too late. The idea of an uprising had clearly been taking shape in Connolly's mind. The threat that Britain would introduce conscription into Ireland was the main issue that concentrated the mind, not only of Connolly, but also of the petit bourgeois nationalists of the Irish Volunteers. Connolly therefore pressed them to enter a militant alliance with Labour for an armed uprising against British imperialism. In the event, the leaders of the Volunteers withdrew at the last movement, leaving the Rising in the lurch.

Was Connolly right to move when he did? The question is a difficult one. The conditions were frankly unfavourable. Although there were strikes in Ireland right up to the outbreak of the Rising, the Irish working class had been exhausted and weakened by the exertions of the lockout. There were rumours that the British authorities were planning to arrest the leading Irish revolutionaries. Connolly finally decided to throw everything into the balance. He drew the conclusion that it was better to strike first. He aimed to strike a blow that would break the ice and show the way, even at the cost of his own life. To fight and lose was preferable than to accept and capitulate. When Connolly marched out of Liberty Hall for the last time that fateful morning, he whispered to a comrade: "We are going out to be slaughtered." When the latter asked him: "Is there no chance of success?" he replied: "None whatever."

Connolly was undoubtedly a giant. His actions were those of a genuine revolutionary, unlike the craven conduct of the Labour leaders who backed the imperialist slaughter - with the enthusiastic support of the Irish bourgeois nationalists. Yet he also made some mistakes. There is no point in denying it, although some people wish to make Connolly into a saint - while simultaneously ditching or distorting his ideas. There were serious weaknesses in the Rising itself. No attempt was made to call a general strike. On Monday 24, 1916, the Dublin trams were still running, and most people went about their business. No appeal was made to the British soldiers.

Only 1,500 members of the Dublin Volunteers and ICA answered the call to rise. The nationalists had already split between the Redmondites - the Parliamentary Irish Group - who backed the War, and the left wing. However, on the eve of the Rising, the leader of the Volunteers, Eoin MacNeil publicly instructed all members to refuse to come out. As so many times before and since, the nationalist bourgeoisie betrayed the cause of Ireland.

The behaviour of the nationalist leaders came as no surprise to Connolly, who always approached the national liberation struggle from a class point of view. He never had any trust in the bourgeois and petit bourgeois Republicans, and tirelessly worked to build an independent movement of the working class as the only guarantee for the re conquest of Ireland. Since his death there have been many attempts to erase his real identity as a revolutionary socialist and present him as just one more nationalist. This is utterly false. One week before the Rising he warned the Citizens Army: "The odds against us are a thousand to one. But if we should win, hold onto your rifles because the Volunteers may have a different goal. Remember, we are not only for political liberty, but for economic liberty as well."

From a military point of view the Rising was doomed in advance - although if the Volunteers had not stabbed it in the back, the Uprising could have had far greater success. As it was, the British used artillery to batter the GPO (the rebel centre) into submission. By Thursday night, after four days of heroic resistance against the most frightful odds, the rebels were compelled to sign an unconditional surrender.

Although the Rising itself ended in failure, it left behind a tradition of struggle that had far-reaching consequences. It was this that probably Connolly had in mind. In particular the savagery of the British army, which shot all the leaders of the Rising in cold blood after a farcical drumhead trial, caused a wave of revulsion throughout all Ireland. James Connolly, who was badly wounded and unable to stand, was shot strapped to a chair. But the British had miscalculated. The gunshots that ended the life of this great martyr of the working class aroused a new generation of fighters eager to revenge Ireland's wrongs.

The Easter Rising was like a tocsin bell, the echoes of which rang throughout Europe. After two years of imperialist slaughter, at last the ice was broken! A courageous word had been spoken, and could be heard above the din of the bombs and cannon-fire. Lenin received the news of the uprising enthusiastically. This was understandable, given his position. The War posed tremendous difficulties for the Marxist internationalists. Lenin was isolated with a small group of supporters. On all sides there was capitulation and betrayal. The class struggle was temporarily in abeyance. The Labour leaders were participating in coalition governments with the social-patriots. The events in Dublin completely cut across this. That is why Lenin was so enthusiastic about the uprising. But he also pointed out:

"The misfortune of the Irish is that they have risen prematurely when the European revolt of the proletariat has not yet matured. Capitalism is not so harmoniously built that the various springs of rebellion can of themselves merge at one effort without reverses and defeats."

Had the Rising occurred a couple of years later, it would not have been isolated. It would have had powerful reserves in the shape of the mass revolutionary movement that swept through Europe after the October Revolution in 1917. But Connolly was not to know this.

Importance of leadership

Some sorry ex-Marxists criticised the Easter Rising from a right wing standpoint, such as Plekhanov. In an article in Nashe Slovo dated 4 July 1916, Trotsky denounced Plekhanov's remarks about the Rising as "wretched and shameful" and added: "the experience of the Irish national uprising is over....the historical role of the Irish proletariat is just beginning."

Unfortunately, this prediction was falsified by history. The tragedy of the Irish working class was that, unlike Lenin, Connolly did not create a revolutionary Marxist party, armed with theory, that would have carried on his work after his death. This was his biggest mistake, and one which had the most tragic consequences. In the same way that the murder of Rosa Luxemburg and Karl Liebknecht later beheaded the German revolution, so the killing of Connolly removed any chance of the Irish working class leading the revolutionary movement against British imperialism. This was a heavy price to pay!

Connolly had created the Irish Labour Party, with a solid base in the trade unions and the working class. In effect, it was the workers of the Irish Citizens Army who had led the Easter Rising, not the petit bourgeois Volunteers. In fact, Sinn Fein played NO role in the uprising, while the Irish bourgeois nationalists openly betrayed it.

Yet, when Connolly was removed from the picture, it was the bourgeois and petit bourgeois nationalists who took advantage of the situation to seize control of the movement. Tragically, the leaders of the Irish Labour Party, lacking Connolly's grounding in Marxism, proved to be hopelessly inadequate to the tasks posed by history. Instead of maintaining Connolly's fight for an independent class policy, they tail ended the nationalists, standing down in their favour in the general election after the War.

Under the leadership of the bourgeois and petit bourgeois nationalists, the movement was side-tracked into a guerrilla struggle, and then betrayed. Fearful of the prospect of revolution, the rotten Irish bourgeoisie reached an agreement with London to divide the living body of Ireland. All Connolly's warnings about the treacherous role of the bourgeoisie were confirmed by the terrible events surrounding partition. The legacy of this betrayal is still with us today.

For the last 85 years, the Irish bourgeois and petit bourgeois nationalists have demonstrated their complete incapacity for solving the tasks of the Irish national liberation struggle. In 1922, the bourgeois leaders signed the partition of Ireland. This problem cannot be solved on a capitalist basis. For the last 30 years the Provisional IRA have been trying to solve the problem by a senseless campaign of bombing and shooting. These tactics of individual terrorism have absolutely nothing in common with the methods of Connolly and the Citizens Army, which were always based on class politics and organically linked to the proletariat and the mass workers organisations.

What have these methods achieved after 30 years? Over three thousand deaths; the destruction of a whole generation of Irish youth; the splitting of the population of the North into two hostile camps; a terrible legacy of sectarian bitterness. And with what result? Has the border question been solved? Let us speak clearly: After three decades of so-called armed struggle, the cause of Irish reunification is further away today than at any other time. Ignominiously, the leaders of the Provisionals have capitulated for the sake of a few paltry ministerial portfolios. Nothing has been solved for either Catholics or Protestants.

This is the terrible legacy of decades of individual terrorism and the total lack of any class or socialist perspective. True, there was a serious division in the past between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland. But now in place of division we have a yawning abyss. Yet none of this would have been necessary if Connolly's ideas and methods had prevailed.

In his lifetime, Connolly always fought for the unity of the working class above all national and religious lines. By concentrating on class issues, he succeeded in uniting the Catholic and Protestant workers in the struggle against their common enemy - the employing class. That is the only way to get out of the present mess. The only way to solve what remains of Ireland's national problem is as a by-product of the revolutionary struggle for socialism. That was true in Connolly's day. And it remains true today. There can be no reunification of Ireland while the working class remains divided along sectarian lines.

The socialist revolution in the North is inextricably linked to the perspective of socialist revolution in the South - and in Britain. In other words, it can only be solved with a proletarian and internationalist policy. There is still a ray of hope in the North of Ireland. Despite everything, the fundamental organisations of the working class - the trade unions - remain united. They are probably the only real non-sectarian mass organisations that still exist. This is the base upon which we can build! That would undoubtedly be the message of James Connolly, were he alive at this time.

Eighty five years later, it is necessary to cut through all the fog of historical fantasy and nationalist mystification that surrounds the events of Easter Week, and see the key role of the proletariat. What a great opportunity was missed with the death of James Connolly! But the new generation must take the lesson to heart. Connolly failed because he did not create - as Lenin created - the necessary instrument with which to change society: a revolutionary party and a revolutionary leadership!

Today we pledge ourselves to defend the heritage of this great Marxist, fighter, and martyr of the working class. We must rescue the ideas of Connolly which have been stolen and distorted beyond recognition by people who have nothing to do with Connolly, socialism or the working class. We must continue the fight for Connolly's ideas - the only ideas that can guarantee the ultimate victory. We must create the necessary revolutionary organisation, soundly based on the programme, policy and methods of Marxism. And we must understand that such an organisation must be firmly based in the only soil in which it can grow and flourish: the trade unions and the mass organisations of Labour in Ireland, North and South, as well as on the other side of the Irish Sea.

The Easter Rising was a glorious harbinger of what is still to come. The job was left unfinished in 1916. The task now falls upon our shoulders. Armed with the ideas of Marx, Engels, Lenin, Trotsky - and Connolly - we shall not fail!
Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno wants to develop an "eclectic" mix in the heart of his city, a mix that includes higher education.



SPRINGFIELD The University of Massachusetts, Bay Path University, Cambridge College and Springfield College.

All are leading the way to bring higher education to downtown Springfield, adding to the "eclectic" mix that Mayor Domenic J. Sarno wants to develop in the heart of his city.

"We're excited to have them downtown," Sarno says. "We are looking to bring more of an eclectic mix to downtown."

The offerings are convenient for learners, but they also bring those associated with the universities and colleges downtown to eat, shop and do other business.

"Colleges and universities are a vital part of the Western Massachusetts economy, and by moving into the downtown they are growing their presence and making themselves more accessible to a larger population of students," adds Richard K. Sullivan Jr., president and CEO of the Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts. "They are providing a very visible sign that Springfield is growing and 'on the move.'"

Bay Path launched the American Women's College Online in 2013. It is the first all-women, all-online, undergraduate degree program offering in the world. Staff and faculty at the downtown location market and enroll online students as well as One Day A Week College students for teaching locations in Longmeadow, Sturbridge and Burlington.

Bay Path has advisors, faculty and admissions professionals who frequently interact with students in meeting rooms in downtown Springfield because it is more convenient for students if they live or work in Springfield; 21 percent of The American Women's College and One Day A Week College students are Springfield residents.

The university has leased 10,000 square feet of office space and has 40 professionals employed at the downtown location who shop and eat downtown regularly. "In fact we have set a goal of eating in every Springfield restaurant. We are making good progress towards this goal," enthuses Caron T. Hobin, chief strategy officer.

The American Women's College Online is headquartered on the seventh floor of the MassLive building at 1350 Main St. It has pioneered a learning platform online that utilizes cutting-edge predictive learning analytics coupled with wrap-around support systems to positively impact student learning and graduation rates.

The UMass Center at Springfield at Tower Square hosts several programs from multiple UMass campuses and partner institutions; these have included Springfield Technical Community College (which is located just up State Street), Holyoke Community College and Westfield State University. It has more than 700 enrollments per semester across all programs.

Offerings include graduate, undergraduate and non-credit courses as well as certificate courses and technical trainings.

"Each of the programs offers something different with the idea of creating programming across all institutions that will contribute to the diverse needs of the community around us," said Daniel L. Montagna, director of operations.

Tower Square presented a prime location because of the availability of parking, access to public transit service and the proximity to Interstates 91 and 291 and the Massachusetts Turnpike, according to Montagna.

"We are also within walking distance of local businesses, large and small. Our students are living, working and taking classes in an ecosystem in and around greater Springfield," Montagna said. "Our strength in serving the local community lies in our physical location and our ability to house many programs and institutions under one roof."

By hosting events with local partners from both academic and non-academic sectors and making space at the center accessible to the community, the UMass Center at Springfield hopes to bring all local partners together more and share knowledge and passion for academic excellence, workforce development and economic prosperity.

People who are downtown for education want to "play" downtown too, so wi-fi and eclectic businesses and shops are needed, and they, too, add to the vibrancy of downtown and increase the demand for market-rate housing, Sarno says.

Pointing to a trend for empty nesters, baby boomers and young professionals to return to their "core city" if it is clean and safe, Sarno said educational opportunities downtown help make the city appealing to all.

Montagna says that as improvements to the downtown take hold, students and faculty could help contribute to the vibrancy of the area in terms of both workforce development and economic growth.

Springfield College opened its downtown office in October; it's also located in the MassLive building. The new office space will offer the college a flexible space for future projects and partnerships, according to president Mary-Beth Cooper.

Cooper said at a ribbon-cutting event that she expects administrators to work from the new offices and that students working at downtown internships will use them as a work space. "We're starting here, starting small, but we're thinking big," Cooper said.

Cambridge College moved to downtown Springfield, relocating from Cottage Street to Tower Square in 2013. College leaders cited the easy access from the major highways among the key reasons for the move; Cambridge College has classrooms, offices and administrative space in more than 18,000 square feet at Tower Square.

The colleges and universities are growing their importance to the city's and region's economy, according to Sullivan.

"There is an important relationship between higher education and entrepreneurship-innovation," Sullivan said, adding that Springfield's innovation sector is vibrant, is centered in the downtown at Valley Venture Mentors, and now the higher education institutions are physically part of this growing part of the Western Massachusetts economy.

"We have the ability, agility and the capacity to customize curriculum to be responsive to individual business and industry needs," Hobin said.

And in doing so it seems higher education also is responsive to the need of Springfield's downtown to be more eclectic.

For more information on the UMass Center at Springfield, visit umasscenteratspringfield.org or call (413) 788-6277.

For more information on Bay Path University and its American Women's College Online, go online to baypath.edu or call (413) 342-0122.

For more information on Sprigfield College, go online to springfield.edu.

For more information on Cambridge College Springfield, go online to springfield.cambridgecollege.edu.


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(File Photo)

The lineup has been solidified for the Berkshire Metal Fest to be held at the Tavern at the A in Pittsfield on April 2 starting at 2 p.m.

Bands for the day-long festival include Massachusetts-based groups like Mental Pause, The Killing Kind, and Losing Faith along with bands from around the region such as Potsy (NH), Ironborn (NH), and Goat Herder (CT).

Tavern at the A is at 303 Crane Ave in Pittsfield. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. This is a 21+ show. Advance tickets can be purchased through the festival's Eventbrite page.
SPRINGFIELD -- Many people walk through art museums, stop at a painting for a few seconds and move on to the next, glancing at the images, but never fully exploring them.

Charles "Chuck" Hayward, of East Longmeadow, is not one of those people. A retired art professor, art historian, world traveler and artist in his own right, Hayward, who will present a talk on Vincent van Gogh on Thursday at the Michele and Donald D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts, recently visited the Carol and Noel Leary Gallery of Impressionist Art at the Springfield Museums and sat on a bench contemplating a painting by Claude Monet.

In the foreground of "Grainstack," there is a large haystack; in the background, a series of trees and smaller haystacks.

"If you concentrate and stare at this painting for a while, what will begin to happen is that the physiology of your eye begins to change as a consequence of you concentrating on the painting, and in a way you begin to get closer to what the painting looked like when Monet was painting it," he said. "Eventually, your eyes become so sensitized to the painting, it will begin to take on a three-dimensional character. You will see the haystack actually sitting in the meadow, the trees will divide themselves, the light between the trunks of the trees will begin to intensify as you feel the sun on them."

Hayward knows Carol and Noel Leary personally and is fascinated by the gallery, housed in the D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts.

He said what makes the room interesting, besides the paintings, is that each painting was created by an artist with whom van Gogh was friendly or at least familiar. In fact, the subject of one painting had a unique connection to van Gogh.

"Anna Boch, a Belgian painter, was the only person we can document who bought a painting by Vincent van Gogh during his lifetime," said Hayward, who will bring up the point during his lecture at the Museums titled, "Vincent van Gogh: The Last Chapter. How Genius Challenged Tradition and Then Transformed It."

Hayward's talk is part of the Springfield Museums' noontime "Museums a la Carte" lecture series. The Springfield native and longtime resident of the city said this will be his final lecture after being involved from the beginning of the series that's been running for nearly four decades.

"Museums a la Carte" began in 1979 under the art museum's directorship of Richard Mulhberger, who remained with the museums until 1987. Principal staffers engaged in producing "Art a la Carte," as it was originally called, were the late Janet Gelman, Kay Nichols Simpson, now the Springfield Museums president, and Mary Franks, who produced them from 1988 to 2002. Kristina Sampson Guerin has produced the series for several years since.

"Chuck has delivered many wonderful and very popular lectures over the last few decades at the museums. His talks have been an integral part of 'Museums a la Carte' lecture series and the Museums as a whole," said Guerin, coordinator of adult programming for the museums.

Hayward has a long history with the museums, from leading tours all over the world with his wife, Irene, to being the person to give the most lecture talks since they began nearly 40 years ago.

"We recognize a universality in this art. None of it is remote or static. The barriers have fallen, the distance between the artist and viewer disappears." Hayward said.

The lecture will be held Thursday at 12:15 p.m. Tickets are $4, and $2 for Springfield Museums members.
LOWELL

 The man shot by Lowell police officers during an armed confrontation Saturday night, died of his injuries Sunday morning, police are now saying.

The Lowell Sun reported that the Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan said Jose Perez was shot after police arrived at his 75 Cambridge St. home and found him armed with a meat cleaver and a large knife. The first responding officers ordered him to drop the weapons, but Perez advanced toward them and they opened fire.

The 911 called said Perez was threatening to "kill everyone."

Neighbors said they heard three shots, then saw the officers performing CPR on Perez.

The wounded suspect was transported to Lowell General Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The two officers, although not physically injured, were shaken by the incident were also taken to Lowell General Hospital.

Lowell Police Superintendent William Taylor said the officers have been placed on administrative leave as the shooting is investigated. Taylor said that is standard procedure in this type of case.
Montana is blessed with many invaluable natural resources on her landscape. Some of the most splendid and magnificent resources, vistas and pristine areas are those found in wilderness. Mack and Connie have developed a deep appreciation for them and want to be able to share that wealth with those that otherwise might not be able to enjoy them.

If you are tired of the static, stress and noise in your busy daily life and would prefer to hear the soft clomping of your horse while you experience the peaceful sounds and smells of whispering pines at 3 Miles an hour, the speed of a trail horse, then join us on a wilderness pack trip vacation or for a wilderness fair chase hunt.

We cant thank Smoke and Thelma Elser enough for being our mentors, friends and advisers. They have shared with us their nearly 60 years of outfitting experience, knowledge and history. To say that their help and guidance is priceless is an understatement. Smoke still goes with us on pack trips whenever he can and continues to work hard for the wilderness he loves. Smoke is the author of Packing in on Horses and Mules http://www.amazon.com/Packin-Mules-Horses-Smoke-Elser/dp/0878421270/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459128648&sr=8-1&keywords=%22smoke+elser%22 . This is a book that anyone who wants to be a packer should read. It has been in print for 3 decades and is used as a reference book for several classes, including his own Packing Class that he holds every January to March.

Wed appreciate it if youd let Connie and Mack know you found Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters on MATR.net. Thank you. See you on the trail
Governor Steve Bullock announced today $779,000 in grants to help businesses in six Montana communities create 93 new jobs and plan for future expansions.

"After adding nearly 10,000 new jobs to Montanas economy just last year, were not done yet," said Governor Bullock. "The Big Sky Trust Fund and Workforce Training Grant programs allow businesses in communities across Montana to create jobs and take our economy to new heights."

The funds are being awarded through the Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund (BSTF) and Primary Sector Workforce Training Grant (WTG) programs.

More funding opportunities are still available. The deadline for submitting an application for consideration at the next Grant/Loan Review Committee meeting is April 13.

Author: Daniel Iverson

Full Story: http://commerce.mt.gov/News/PressReleases/ArtMID/19685/ArticleID/3468/Governor-Bullock-Announces-Grants-to-Create-93-New-Jobs-across-Montana
by Tanya Gazdik , March 28, 2016

MediaPost awarded its inaugural automotive marketing awards last week at the New York International Auto Show, including the first-of-its-kind experiential award.

The Best New York International Auto Show Experiential Program honors the top immersive premise, execution and experiences as demonstrated during the course of the auto show.

The finalists were determined by the jury after careful consideration of all of the exhibits on the show floor. They are Toyota Motor Co.'s Lexus brand, Chrysler Group's Dodge brand and Ford Motor Co.'s Ford division.

The award goes to Ford. The companys live "social square" as well as other changes the automaker made to its display stand pushed it over the edge, says Scotty Reiss, co-founder, SheBuysCars.com and president of the International Motor Press Association. Imagination Labs, Detroit, created Ford's N.Y. Auto Show display.

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The entire stand has been completely redesigned for this years shows and integrates the lifestyle experience into the models, Reiss notes. So, for instance, you dont just see a crossover, but rather a lifestyle you can identify with. There is merchandise that consumers can buy, a social media station, a button-making stand and in the truck area on the lower level they have a BraunAbility Explorer that lets customers see and experience how they can still have the style, capability and fun they want in an SUV.

In addition to Reiss, the award selection jury included Ian Beavis, chief strategy officer, AMCI Global; Monik Sanghvi, chief strategy officer of Organic, Inc.; Will Travis, CEO and senior partner, Sid Lee USA; Jane Crisan, president and COO of R2C Group; Tanya Gazdik, marketing automotive editor, MediaPost and Karl Greenberg, previous marketing automotive editor, MediaPost.

Representatives of the automakers and their agencies were on hand to receive the remaining awards on Thursday after the conclusion of MediaPost's Marketing:Automotive conference.

Marketer of the year went to Thomas J. Doll, President, COO, Subaru Of America, who shared with the audience "Dog Tested," which debuted during the Super Bowl and is one of his favorite spots.

Best integrated campaign was presented to Ford Motor Co. and its agency partner, Team Detroit, for Ford By Design. Accepting the award was Amy Green, marketing manager, East market for Ford.

The best Web site went to Jeep.com and the award was accepted by Eileen Wunderlich, manager, marketing communications at Chrysler Group LLC.

The best interactive campaign was awarded to Jaguar, Art of Performance Tour and its agency partner, Spark 44. Accepting the award was Kim Kyaw of Jaguar and Tony Hobley of Spark 44.

The best transcultural award went to Dodge, Te Pondra a Prueba / Itll Test You and its agency partner, Lopez Negrete Communications. Accepting the award were Wunderlich and Martim Thomaz, account director, brand leadership, from Lopez Negrete Communications.
by Felicia Greiff , March 28, 2016

In a world where consumers expect a relevant, personalized experience on every device they use, niche ad networks might hit the mark in a way others can't.

Take the Jewish Ad Network, for instance. The network, started late last year, has been generating interest after being featured in The Wall Street Journal, said Barry Schwartz, president of software development firm RustyBrick, Inc., which launched the Jewish Ad Network.

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How did it begin? Schwartz's company, which offers software called ShulCloud that helps synagogues manage newsletters, events, membership and other aspects, wanted to help synagogues find additional sources of revenue.

Clients already include FM Home Loans; an Israeli charity called American Friends of Yad Eliezer; a caregiver site for Jewish families called FrumCare; and Jewish genetic testing company JScreen.

The pitch is simple: The network has access to information on family units, family records and general email lists that can inform targeting based on factors like geography and age or grouped by communities such as Reform Jewish or Orthodox. The company has access to bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah dates, as well as death anniversaries (yahrzeit), so advertisers can target according to those, too.

Other niche networks include the Gay Ad Network, which offers inventory on premium lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender sites; Decibel, a platform for "reaching electronic music enthusiasts"; the Gambling Advertising Network, which focuses "just on gambling traffic"; and Gourmet Ads, a private ad exchange for reaching household grocery buyers. All these and plenty others targeting B2B, Millennial and Hispanic audiences provide curated, passionate audiences.

Schwartz said the email open rate for the synagogues he works with averages roughly 50%, which is pretty high. Members want to know whats going on in the community, he said.

"Not a lot of networks have this data," Schwartz said. "We have a much larger set of data that advertisers can target with that Google and Facebook cannot."
by Richard Whitman , Columnist, March 27, 2016

It's no secret that the advertising industry has a unique penchant for creating new words and phrases in an attempt to add "shiny new object" glitter to something that's been done for decades prior. This week, it's The Shipyard which, in partnership with Jon Bond's marketing consultancy Tomorro LLC, has announced Mediopolis, a -- wait for it -- "media engineering firm."

What, exactly, is a media engineering firm?

According to Bond, himself, it's an entity that "uses data to engineer a media driven customer acquisition machine that reaches consumers with mass personalization. It is simply the most effective way to plan and buy media today."

So in other words, it's a super-smart way of buying media that's super-targeted. Yup, that's totally new.

Continuing to polish their newly birthed shiny new object, The Shipyard CEO Rick Milenthal, who will serve as Mediopolis's Co-Chairman, added: "The future of all media is personalization. We must be totally relevant at each and every touchpoint. The balance of power has shifted squarely to the consumer, enhancing every day their ability to choose the messages they see."

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And so...we have to be really, REALLY targeted now, right?

According to its founders, Mediopolis intends to displace the traditional media planning and buying firms serving blue-chip marketers. I'd venture to say some of the major players in media buying will have something to say about that.

Former head of Victoria's Secret media Pattie Glod will serve as President of Mediopolis. She added: "I've joined the leadership team of Mediopolis because we represent what clients need today. We don't see our job as just planning and buying media. We see it as making our clients money. As building a machine where you put in $1 on one side and get $3 out the other."

Yup, she's certainly consumed the Kool-Aid.

The company will have offices in New York, Columbus, and Newport Beach, California. And just to be sure we all realize this is a totally new thing, the press release was quick to point out: "The Columbus headquarters has a buzz more like a Wall Street trading floor than a media agency."

Ben Clarke, the president of The Shipyard, will serve as chief strategist of Mediopolis. Winning the fancy word prize, Clarke said: "To achieve the apogee of media engineering means having a totally new set of technologies and talents than media agencies ever imagined. We are geeks, quants, and techies. For many of us, this is the first experience in an agency environment. Data drives our convictions on behalf of our clients."

Wow. Never before has a media department or media-buying agency ever used data to make a decision. This is truly leading edge stuff, folks.

But, hey, let's give them a chance. After all, apparently they already have clients. Current clients include WD-40, Fantastic Sams, Scotts Lawn Service, Virgin Casinos, Alger Financial, Co-Op Financial Services, Donatos, American Electric Power and Sears Home Services.
by Sara Guaglione , March 28, 2016

Tribune Publishing Company announced today that it will replace its chief financial officer and dismissed its auditor, two weeks after revealing significant problems with its financial reporting.

The publisher of the Los Angeles Times and the Chicago Tribune named Terry Jimenez CFO and EVP. Jimenez will take over for Sandra Martin on April 4.

Martin will officially leave the company on April 15.

Tribune also appointed Ernst & Young as its auditor, to replace PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

Prior to joining Tribune, Jimenez was a partner for IBMs Global Business Services since 2012. Before that, Jimenez worked as a consultant for Wrapports, served as president of Newsday Media Group, COO and CFO of Newsday and publisher of amNew York.

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Jimenez will be the third executive to take on the role at Tribune since founding CFO John Bode left the company in April 2015. He signed a two-year contract with Tribune.

Last week, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors of Tribune Publishing Company dismissed PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the companys independent registered public accounting firm. Tribune appointed Ernst & Young as its auditor.

According to a report by Politico, for the second year in a row, Tribunes annual 10-K filing had to note material weaknesses in the Companys internal control over financial reporting. There were more instances of these material weaknesses in 2015 than in 2014.

This year, the flaws cover key parts of Tribunes business, Politico reports, including highly profitable pre-print business, circulation rates and compensation expenses.

Tribunes management, which includes Martin and CEO Justin Dearborne, concluded that the companys internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of the fiscal year ended December 27, 2015 due to material weaknesses in the Companys internal control over financial reporting.

The filing notes that the material weaknesses described above could result in misstatements of the accounts and disclosures that would result in a material misstatement of the annual or interim consolidated and combined financial statements that would not be prevented or detected.
by Felicia Greiff , March 28, 2016

Video-tech company Adaptive Medias announced Monday that it signed a letter of intent to merge with ad-tech company AdSupply.

Under the terms of the LOI, Adaptive Medias will pay Los Angeles-based AdSupply $8 million in cash and stocks.

Adaptive Medias, which provides mobile video delivery and monetization solutions for publishers, content producers and advertisers, offers a video monetization solution called Media Graph.

Last year, ad-tech company BlockIQ, owned by AdSupply, launched BlockBypass, a product for publishers that keeps content behind a wall until an ad blocker is turned off, Real-Time Daily reported.

Adaptive Medias went through a leadership change a year ago when its former CEO and founder was arrested. Since August 2015, John Strong has acted as interim CEO of the company.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, March 28, 2016

Challenges in display viewability, fraud, ad blocking, transparency, and complex programmatic media buying are leading marketers to lean on content for multichannel campaigns, some with search engine marketing strategies. That trend could prompt Tongal, a creative studio that connects brands with content creators, to build its own channel network.

"I'm riffing, but it's possible that we would create our own brand channel," James DeJulio, president and chief creative officer at Tongal, told Search Marketing Daily.

Tongal would build a media channel highlighting the content that brands create working through its platform, and distribute the content through partnerships like the one with Direct TV, which has a show called Audience Network. The two companies have a deal to develop feature-length documentaries using Tongal's talent.

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Tourism boards such as Wyoming state, for example, look for documentaries. This Short Film Contest asks entrants to submit film concepts inspired by the question WY am I here?" The entries, of five minutes or less, are due by April 15, 2016.

In addition to television, distribution paths for Tongal might include YouTube, Facebook, or whatever media channel the brand chooses to distribute their work.

"That's just me going down a rabbit hole about something that could happen in five years, but we really don't have any concrete plans," DeJulio said.

Although the plan may not be concrete, DeJulio has strategies in mind. He ran a production studio at Paramount before co-founding Tongal, whose client roster reads like an Academy Awards list for the Oscars with brands like Fiat, Gillet, Lenovo, and Mattel.

Tongal has worked with Vinyard Vines to create content that shows viewers how to tie ties, and with Mattel on two short-form 15-minute pieces of content for the American Girl brand, but one of the most successful campaigns was with Gillette.

The Gillette video around how-to shave over a tattoo targeted at 18- to-35-year-old males looking for answers about shaving over tattoos. They didn't know that if shaving over time would fade the body art. The brand wanted to own the idea of the correct way to shave to capture organic search queries.

The movement toward content led Tongal to build an awards event it calls the Tongies, which has a similar feel to the Academy Awards.

The third annual Tongies took place in March; Lenovo among the winners.

Lenovo has been using the platform for two years. The social media team first, followed by the brand team, which now taps the platform to crowdsource the co-creation of its branding campaigns, said Maureen Ahmad, director of brand content strategy at Lenovo.
by Larissa Faw , March 28, 2016

Georgia Aquarium and its ad agency Ames Scullin O'Haire (ASO) are debuting a new multi-faceted campaign to promote the aquarium's three new attractions.

To attract visitors to the new AT&T Dolphin Celebration, the campaign is introducing The Waddlesworth Family, five animated spokes-penguins who recently moved to Atlanta from South Africa. The TV spots run in Atlanta DMA, the digital pre-rolls run nationwide.

Also to support the new home and exhibit space for fourteen California sea lions, ads show people of all ages wearing sea lion whiskers as they go about their daily lives, ending with the Become a Fan tagline. The effort includes out-of-home signage as well as digital and social media support.

And to encourage visitors to the 4D Funbelievable Theater, an online video spot showcases one member of the Waddlesworths proclaiming that this high-tech center distracted her to "not even text for, like, 20 minutes."

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ASO has been the non-profit's AOR since 2009. ASO received $3.62 million from the non-profit for its services in 2013, according to the organization's most recent Form 990. The Georgia Aquarium spent $4.79 million on advertising and promotions in 2013, up from $3.46 million in 2012.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, March 28, 2016

In a victory for Facebook, a federal judge has dismissed a consumer's lawsuit accusing the company of violating an anti-spam law by sending unwanted text messages.

U.S. District Court Judge Jon Tigar in San Francisco said in a ruling issued last week that the complaint against Facebook didn't contain enough facts to support the allegation that it used an automated dialing system to send text messages.

The ruling stemmed from a lawsuit filed last March by Noah Duguid, who alleged that Facebook repeatedly sent him unwanted text messages.

Duguid, who says he has never signed up for Facebook, alleged that the company repeatedly notified him via SMS that his account had been accessed. Duguid's carrier apparently reassigned him a phone number previously used by a Facebook member.

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He alleged that the company violated Telephone Consumer Protection Act, which prohibits companies from using automated dialers to send text messages to people without their consent.

Facebook urged Tigar to dismiss the lawsuit for several reasons, including that Duguid's written complaint didn't include enough facts to support the conclusion that Facebook used a robo-dialer to send the messages.

Tigar agreed with Facebook on that point. "Plaintiffs allegations do not support the inference that the text messages he received were sent using an ATDS (automatic telephone dialing system)," Tigar wrote.

He added that Duguid doesn't allege that Facebook sends text messages "en masse to randomly or sequentially generated numbers."

Tigar did not rule on Facebook's other arguments, including its position that messages regarding log-ins are protected by free speech principles. Facebook had argued that imposing liability on it in this situation could discourasge a wide range of constitutionally-protected communications."

That contention drew a response from the Justice Department, which argued that the log-in notifications are "commercial speech," and therefore subject to more regulation than purely editorial speech.

Tigar dismissed the lawsuit without prejudice, meaning that Duguid can attempt to beef up the allegations and try again.
When planning a family, there are many factors that play into when and if a couple is ready to have a baby. One issue that is often overlooked is genetic disease risk and what a couples chances are of passing down a genetic disease to their child. Share on Pinterest Pre-pregnancy genetic counseling can inform couples of any risks of passing down a genetic disease to their child. Is the child at risk of inheriting a genetic disease? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), birth defects caused by genetic disorders affect 1 in every 33 births in the US (3%) each year and are the leading cause of infant death. Global Genes reports that 24 million people in the US are living with rare diseases of genetic origin, and about 30% of children with a rare disease will not live to see their fifth birthdays. With todays advanced gene testing technology, women and their partners can find out if they are carriers for any one of hundreds of genetic disorders. Most inherited diseases are considered autosomal recessive fashion, which means that the child can only be affected if both parents have a gene mutation. If both carry a gene mutation, theres a 1 in 4 chance their child will have that disease. A recent news release from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) notes that carrier screening for inherited genetic disorders is an important part of preconception and prenatal care for the nearly 4 million women who give birth in the US annually, and that new technology in genotyping and genetic sequencing allows for more efficient carrier screening of a greater number of conditions simultaneously.

Doctors alert: people want to know more about their genes In a new study of American adults knowledge of and attitudes toward genetic testing, 53% of the respondents wanted to know whats in their DNA, and 70% wanted to find out if they could pass on a genetic disease. Their doctors, however, do not seem to be on the same page, as only 7% of respondents said their physicians had discussed genetic screening with them. Consumers are demanding more information and control over their health care, and new technology can now assess hundreds of mutations associated with genetic disease. As Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, wrote in 2010: It is likely that within a few decades people will be puzzled and dismayed, as I am now, that our health care system put so many couples in an unnecessarily difficult position, by not identifying their carrier status until a pregnancy was already underway.

The basics: how genetic testing works Genetic tests use a sample of blood or saliva, which is usually collected at a physicians office or a lab. The conditions the sample is screened for can depend on a persons ethnic background, family history, previous pregnancies and the physicians recommendations. Everyone carries at least six changed genes, which could potentially cause a genetic disorder for a couples children, particularly if a partner is a carrier for the same genetic condition. Some diseases, such as Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Fragile X, are called X-linked conditions and are associated with mutation on the X chromosome. Mothers who are carriers for an X-linked disorder have a 50% chance of passing the changed gene to each of their children. Because boys only have one copy of the X chromosome, which is inherited from their mother, they are usually severely affected. Rarely, girls will have symptoms if they inherit the changed gene from their mothers, but usually they have no symptoms. Most people are carriers of at least one recessive or X-linked genetic condition.

Who should have carrier testing for genetic conditions? Carrier testing for genetic conditions is available to all reproductive age women and their partners. Persons are at higher risk of being a carrier if anyone in their family has had a genetic disease or if they belong to certain ethnic groups. For example, the following groups face increased risks for these diseases: Share on Pinterest Certain groups may benefit more from genetic testing, as they face increased risks. European Caucasians (cystic fibrosis)

Eastern European Jews (cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs, Canavan and familial dysautonomia)

Black people and people of Mediterranean descent (sickle cell anemia and thalassemia)

People of Southeast Asian (thalassemia)

French Canadians (Tay-Sachs and cystic fibrosis). Updated guidelines from The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Committee on Genetics state that it is reasonable to offer cystic fibrosis carrier screening to all patients. The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics also issued practice guidelines recommending that testing for spinal muscular atrophy be offered to all couples, regardless of race or ethnicity. Newer tests, called expanded genetic carrier screenings, can detect gene mutations for Fragile X syndrome and many other rare disorders. For example, Horizon from Natera screens for up to 274 autosomal recessive and X-linked genetic conditions and generally provides the results in 10-14 business days.

Benefits of pre-pregnancy testing Genetic carrier screening gives women and their partners valuable information to make the reproductive choices that are right for them and their families. If the results are negative, they can be reassured that the chance that their children will be born with the disorders they were screened for is extremely small. And if a couple is at risk of having a baby with a recessive disease, they can consider various options, such as: Natural pregnancy with or without prenatal diagnosis, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to test and then transfer embryos free of the disease that both partners carry

Adoption

Use of a sperm or egg donor. In addition, having this knowledge before a pregnancy gives a couple enough time to learn about and prepare for having a baby that may have a specific genetic condition. The test information could also help other prospective parents in their families know that they, too, could be carriers and might benefit from a screening test.
Muwaffaq Matar, a columnist for the Palestinian Authority (PA) daily Al-Hayat Al-Jadida, wrote that ISIS by itself lacks the power and ability to carry out massive attacks like those that occurred recently in Paris and Brussels, and that they were actually orchestrated by Israel, using ISIS as a tool. He claimed that Israel carried out the attacks as revenge for Europe's recent moves against it, such as the EU's decision to mark products manufactured in the occupied territories, and the French initiative to convene an international conference for resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and, if it fails, to recognize a Palestinian state.

The following are excerpts from Matar's column:[1]



Muwaffaq Matar (Image: Al-Hayat Al-Jadida, PA)

"The statement of French President [Francois] Hollande - that terrorism struck Belgium but hit the heart of Europe [as a whole] - is perfectly true. [2] However, the day will come, [perhaps] in a quarter of a century, when a French president will declare [the true identity of] those who struck the heart of Europe using the weapons and the tools of ISIS. Following a thorough examination of the situation and the unfolding of events, one definitely realizes that there are no coincidences and that the terror attacks in the capital of Europe were not just a reaction to the arrest of the mastermind behind the Paris attacks, Salah Abdeslam. They came at precisely the right moment for the real element that decided to target the heart of Europe while hiding behind the slogan of ISIS.

"I do not want to point fingers, but why is it that ISIS's crimes and massacres in France and Brussels coincided with Europe's first attempt to liberate itself from Israel's blackmail and from the [guilt] complex over the persecution of the Jews in Europe? [Why did they coincide] with the European parliaments supporting the Palestinians' right [to a state], for the first time? Was it not France that conceived the idea of an international conference that would lead to ending the conflict and the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories? [France] was also the one that threatened to recognize a Palestinian state if Israel refused to turn towards peace with the Palestinians, [peace] that would guarantee their rights as recognized by the UN. [And] was it not the European Union, headquartered in Brussels, that decided to mark the products of the Israeli settlements, thereby [adversely] affecting Israel's economy?

"Have you heard of the European boycott of Israel, of the effective and impressive activity of [European] activists, and of Israel's fear of this activity that is gaining momentum? Why then should we not regard this background as the reason [that prompted] those who are harmed by the new Europe [namely Israel] to strike at the heart of Europe, even though the one who physically carried out [the attack] was a barbaric ISIS criminal completely devoid of humanity? The lesson [to be learned] from a crime does not lie solely in its details, in the tools [used to perpetrate it] and in its appearance, but also in the motivations behind it, the circumstances that enabled it, and the [identity of] the true hidden criminal. This is doubly true when it comes to the motivations of those who committed a historic crime against an entire people... and who do not eschew the use of terror, in all its guises and slogans, as a means and a tool to kill three birds with one terror attack: the Palestinian bird, the Arab bird and the European bird.

"Let's not forget that the compartmentalization that characterizes the activity of the global terror organizations [actually] makes it easy for security apparatuses to infiltrate them and manipulate their members for their own ends. ISIS does not have the ability to strike wherever and however it pleases. Some element or elements have infiltrated it to the core, and are using it as their current tool to take revenge on Europe and rip out its heart."

Endnote:
On March 23-24, 2016, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry visited Moscow and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. According to reports, the meetings, which focused mainly on Syria and the Ukrainian crisis, were "relaxed," "friendly," and characterized by a "touch of humor."[1] During the meeting at the Kremlin, President Putin took the opportunity to joke with Kerry, saying that when he saw him coming off the plane carrying his own suitcase, he thought that things must be looking "blue" in the U.S., since there wasn't anyone to help the secretary of state carry his luggage. This kind of patronizing humor also characterized the meetings between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Kerry, but nonetheless, Kerry and Lavrov "moved from mutual accusations to dialogue."[2] Still, nothing new emerged from the public meetings. At the joint press conference, Lavrov reminded the media that Russia is a global player, since "in less than 10 months" Kerry "has visited Moscow three times" and overall Kerry and Lavrov had 18 meetings last year. Lavrov pointed out that he and Kerry discussed international matters ranging from Syria, to Yemen, to Ukraine, positioning Russia as a vital partner.

Following are excerpts from the English transcripts of the official meetings. (The text has been lightly edited for clarity.) It is noteworthy that in the transcript of the joint press conference published by the Russian Foreign Ministry (below) Kerry's answers do not appear. The transcript that appears on the U.S. State Department[3] website includes the statements of both counterparts.



Russian President Vladimir Putin with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (Source: Reuters, March 24, 2016)

Meeting Between U.S. Secretary Of State John Kerry And Russian President Vladimir Putin

On March 24, 2016, Russian President Vladimir Putin received U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry at the Kremlin. Kerry arrived for a meeting with Putin following his talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The following are excerpts from the English transcript of the Kremlin meeting between Putin and Kerry, translated by the Kremlin.[4] Lavrov was also present at the meeting.

Putin: "Things Must Be Looking Blue In The U.S. If Nobody Can Help The Secretary Of State Carry His Suitcases"



At the meeting between U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian President Vladimir Putin and FM Sergei Lavrov (Source: Kremlin.ru, March 24, 2016)

Russian President Vladimir Putin: "...We are always glad to host you as your visits take place in a highly businesslike atmosphere and provide a chance to advance in resolving serious issues. When I saw you coming off your plane today and carrying your belongings, I got a bit upset. On the one hand, this is very egalitarian, but, on the other hand, things must be looking blue in the United States if nobody can help the Secretary of State carry his suitcases. But the economy seems to be doing fine and there are no big cuts. Then I thought that you probably have in this case something that you couldn't trust anyone to carry, something precious, probably money for better bargaining on key issues.

"Speaking seriously, we are really glad to see you because - this time I am not joking at all - we usually manage to find some points of contact and rely on them to move forward towards resolving bilateral and international issues..."

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry: "Mr. President, thank you. When we have a private moment, I'll show you what's in my briefcase. And I think you'll be surprised, pleasantly...

"Mr. President, let me begin. First of all, I want to thank you for making time. I know this has been a very busy day, and we are very appreciative for the opportunity to have a serious conversation about serious issues.

"...So, Mr. President, I know you have ideas, and you've already made a very critical decision with respect to the drawdown of your forces in Syria. And we obviously also have some ideas for how we can now most effectively make progress in Geneva and begin the very serious and difficult work of the transition.

"And we also have some ideas, Mr. President, for how we could perhaps make faster, greater progress with respect to Ukraine... I look forward very much to the opportunity tonight to be able to find a way forward and frankly, ultimately, see if we can't rebuild and strengthen the relationship between the United States and Russia by proving that we know how to solve some serious problems together and building from there..."

Vladimir Putin: "Mr. Secretary of State, we understand that what we have managed to achieve on the Syrian track has only been possible thanks to the position of the political leadership of the United States, the position of President Obama. I very much hope that your visit will allow us to harmonize our positions as regards further settlement both in Syria and, as you said, in Ukraine."

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's Opening Remarks Prior To Talks With U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Moscow, March 24, 2016

On March 24, 2016, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. The meeting preceded Kerry's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The following are excerpts from the English transcript of Lavrov's opening remarks during talks with Kerry, translated by the Russian Foreign Ministry:[5]

Lavrov: If Wisdom Is Measured By The Number Of Birthdays One's Had, I'll Never Catch Up With You



Russian FM Sergei Lavrov meets with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry in Moscow. (Source: Reuters, March 24, 2016).

John Kerry: "I look forward to our conversations. Let me take advantage of this moment to wish you a very, very happy birthday. I know that it will bring you extra wisdom in our conversations. You look terrific for thirty-nine."

Sergei Lavrov: "Thank you, John, but if wisdom is measured by the number of birthdays one's had, I'll never catch up with you."

John Kerry: "As long as you respect your elders, absolutely."

Sergei Lavrov: "...Our joint efforts in Syria, and persistence, brought us success because we worked and will continue to work together on an equal footing. We found a balance not only between the interests of Moscow and Washington, but between all the involved parties, both inside and outside Syria. This was our key to success. I'm certain if we maintain the same approach in other international affairs and our bilateral relations, we can hope for a pretty good future."

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov's Statement And Answers To Media Questions At A Joint Press Conference With U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Moscow, March 24, 2016

The following are excerpts from the English transcript of the joint news conference, translated by the Russian Foreign Ministry:[6]

Lavrov: In Less Than 10 Months, Secretary of State John Kerry Has Visited Moscow Three Times

Sergei Lavrov: "U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry spent today at talks in Moscow. First, we had a long meeting at the Foreign Ministry. Just now, we finished a long meeting with President of Russia Vladimir Putin. Today's talks covered many issues at great length...Speaking about our bilateral affairs, I believe both countries are increasingly aware that further rocking the boat of Russia-U.S. relations is counterproductive. As we ascertained again today, the rhetoric of Russia's isolation has nothing to do with reality.

"We appreciate President Barack Obama's attitude as he repeatedly stressed the importance of a respectful and pragmatic dialogue with Russia. We also appreciate the role of U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry who is promoting this dialogue in practice, including through his regular visits to Moscow. In less than 10 months, Secretary of State John Kerry has visited our capital three times. Overall, Secretary of State John Kerry and I had 18 meetings last year. This is perhaps a record for Russia's bilateral relations at the foreign ministerial level.

"For our part, we confirmed that we never intended to evade or shut down cooperation. We are always willing to collaborate equally, based on mutual respect for each other's interests... The tone of the Russia-U.S. dialogue has a strong impact on the efforts of the international community in resolving many pressing problems. As you are aware, thanks to our interaction we have made some serious progress in overcoming the Syrian crisis... Following a telephone conversation between our presidents on March 14, we agreed today to continue coordinating our actions to consolidate the ceasefire and prevent any violation of the latter. We will particularly focus on preventing the use of indiscriminate weapons. We agreed to continue our efforts to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach the areas in Syria that are still blocked from access...

"We decided that our immediate task would be to begin direct talks in Geneva between the Syrian Government and the entire range of Syrian opposition forces. This will ensure complete fulfillment of all the criteria set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2264 regarding the formation of a transition government, a new constitution and eventually, free constitutional elections. We also confirmed that our efforts will go hand in hand with building up coordinated action to fight ISIS, Jabhat Al-Nusra, and other associated extremist organizations...

"Our discussion covered other conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa, including Libya and Yemen. We spoke about moving the Middle Eastern settlement forward from the deadlock and reaching an agreement between the Palestinians and the Israelis within the framework of international law and existing UN resolutions. All in all, this region urgently needs a balance of interests - for all the parties involved in the conflict and key external parties.

"We talked about Ukraine at great length. Despite certain nuances, we both understand that the Minsk Agreements must be fulfilled and that there is no alternative...

"Our talks this morning also touched on the situation in the Korean Peninsula. We stressed the importance of easing the tension caused by North Korea's ballistic missile test launches. Russia's stance remains unchanged. Pyongyang's irresponsible action cannot be used to excuse an inadequate and disproportionate response, specifically the buildup of military potential in Northeast Asia.

"We also touched upon the issue of our dialogue on global security. Here we stated the remaining differences between us. This concerns problems relating to missile defense, the treaty on medium and shorter-range missiles and NATO's expansion. What's important is that we agreed to intensify this dialogue, make it more substantive, sustainable, and stable in order to try to eventually resolve these problems.

"We, on our part, would like to accentuate the usefulness of our contacts with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. We believe that these contacts help fulfill the determination of our presidents to address problems both in our bilateral relations and in the international arena. We agreed to continue contacts on all these and other items of our common agenda."

Lavrov: Terrorism Was Largely Engendered Through The Erroneous Actions Of The West In The Region

Question: "You and the U.S. Secretary of State spoke about concrete steps for talks on a political transition in Syria. What conclusion did you come to on the issue of exerting pressure on both negotiating parties in the Syrian settlement to bring them closer to an agreement? And one more question, about the Brussels events. A number of high-ranking Russian officials, including from the Foreign Ministry, suggested that the U.S. is part of the problem in the Middle East because it supports the terrorists. Today you spoke of Washington as a partner. There is some contradiction here. How does Russia view the U.S. - as part of the problem or as part of a solution to it?"

Sergei Lavrov: "As for the need to exert pressure on the government of the Syrian Arab Republic and the opposition, the issue is not new and requires no additional accords. Ever since the Geneva Communiqu was signed on June 30, 2012, the UN Security Council resolutions on the Syrian settlement urged all the sides capable of influencing the government and the opposition to make the necessary efforts to encourage them towards a political settlement. And that's what Russia has been doing from the very beginning. ...The opposition remained aloof for a long time, insisting that it wouldn't attend any talks unless the Syrian President's fate was sealed. The opposition spent January fretting, hindering the start of the first round of talks. The talks were only launched in March, and they cannot be described as the direct dialogue that is stipulated in the Geneva Communiqu... The opposition, with which we need to keep working, as you said, continues to put forth preliminary conditions. It's because of this that we can't implement the part of the Russian-U.S. initiative that provides for an inclusive negotiating process, including an inclusive opposition delegation, meaning that the Kurds must be included too. I won't go into detail as everyone here probably reads the news and knows why the Kurds have not yet been fully involved in the negotiations...

"As for terrorism and the causes of the current tidal wave that is feeding terrorism, I don't see how this can be an issue of contention. Many analysts and politicians in the United States and other countries, including incumbent officials, admit that terrorism was largely engendered through the erroneous actions of the West in the region. I won't cite the Afghan war, when confrontation with the Soviet Union in the 1980s encouraged the United States to contribute to the creation of a mujahidin organization that eventually developed into the notorious terrorist group al-Qaeda. On September 11, 2001, this organization struck the United States.

"Unfortunately, all subsequent attempts at external manipulation of developments in the region, especially those that involved military force, only strengthened the 'terrorist international.' This happened after the invasion of Iraq, where the current ISIS leaders gained prominence in the middle of the past decade. I can cite the example of Libya, which the NATO intervention turned into a 'black hole' from which weapons and militants spread through a dozen other countries, including sub-Saharan Africa, not to mention the countries that border Libya. At the same time, Libya has become a hole through which migrants are smuggled into Europe by criminal businesses.

"In other words, we are not placing the blame on anyone. As I said, many U.S. politicians have described these decisions as gross mistakes. I believe it would be nave to suggest that these facts rule out a partnership with the United States. Many of Washington's partners don't share its views. I mentioned the attempts to prevent the involvement of the Kurds in the Syrian political process. This ultimatum has been raised by one of the United States' partners. But this doesn't mean that our differences on one of the issues should prevent us from discussing anything else... There are a number of issues on which we don't agree. There will probably always be such issues. As for issues on which we don't differ and where we have common interests, we want to and will cooperate on them based on equality and a balance of interests..."

Question (addressed to U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry): "You have intrigued us with what you have in your briefcase. What have you brought to Russia?"...

Sergei Lavrov: "So what was in the briefcase?"

Question (addressed to U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry): "You also brought a guitar with you. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also plays the guitar. When will we be able to enjoy your musical duet?"

Sergei Lavrov: "I don't play this guitar, I play mine."



Endnotes:
Yesterday, Pakistan bled at the hands of a suicide bomber who blew himself up at a park in Lahore where Christians were celebrating Easter. More than 65 innocent Pakistanis lost their lives in the suicide bombing, and more than 300 left injured and wounded, battling for life. Another terrorist attack, yet another blow to humanity.

A faction of Pakistani Taliban owned up to the attack, saying it was targeted at Christians. "We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore," a spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said. "He can do what he wants but he won't be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks." Last March, the Pakistani Taliban killed 14 people and injured a lot more in another brutal terrorist attack in a Christian community in Lahore. The world is coming together to provide support and strength to Pakistan in these tough times. What these heartbreaking pictures can ever show is just an iota of the turmoil our neighbours are going through.

A rescue team moves bodies of the innocents that got killed for no fault of theirs.

 Reuters

Men mourn the death of their sons, wives and daughters.

 Reuters

Blood, corpses and tears.

 Reuters

Of whats left after the barbaric attack.

 Reuters

An injured man battles for life as the rescue team tends to him.

 Reuters

Mothers mourn the members of their families theyd never see again.

 Reuters

Stay strong, Pakistan. This too shall pass. Were praying too.
We go to hill stations to get away from the busy city life. We go there to breathe in the fresh mountain air. We go there to get away from the crowd. But what happens when you go there and you encounter a mass of humanity inching away in vehicles honking and emitting smoke?

Tourism is a thriving business in the hill stations of India. But it has also left our hills sore and If you have been to a hill station on a long weekend, you would know the experience was far from a serene one.

Honking Away And Causing Traffic Jams In The Hills

 Wikimedia Commons

Mall roads at a hill station are where all the action is. Hotels, eating joints and most often the best view. In Nainital, for example, the Mall road is situated along the Naini Lake, the main attraction of the town. While the location is absolutely picturesque and offers a breathtaking view of the lake, what is not is the horde of cars honking away and bellowing smoke.

A recent visit to Nainital during the long Holi weekend made us witness a massive traffic jam on Mall Road. While there was hardly any space to walk, thanks to the influx of tourists, what was bewildering was the unbelievable number of vehicles adding to the air and noise pollution. Instead of the fresh mountain air, all we could smell was sulphur dioxide. The traffic jam looked as bad as that of Delhi.

 Wikimedia Commons

While the influx of tourists cannot be stopped, what can be capped is the number of vehicles entering a town at a particular time. And in any case, vehicles mustnt be allowed to crowd the mall roads, which are anyway filled with tourists on foot. Shimlas mall road, for example, doesnt allow vehicles and has successfully managed to remain pollution-free to a great extent.

Littering The Hills Like Nobodys Business

One of the biggest problems about tourism in India is littering. Well say it simply, if you dont care about the hills, you dont deserve them. Packets of chips and peels of fruits being hurled from cars racing up the hills is certainly not a pleasant sight. Instead of the serene landscape, what one witnesses is heaps of garbage all around. Surely, we shouldnt expect the authorities to keep cleaning the mess we create.

Chicken Tikka, Anyone?

 Wikimedia Commons

Why flood our hill stations with food outlets offering every cuisine under the sun? If you wanted to sit in a Dom*noes all day, why visit a hill station anyway. The amount of littering and waste generated by the array of joints catering to tourists is ruining the beauty of our hill stations. It doesnt hurt to try new cuisines once in a while, especially when you are travelling. Not for nothing did the saying When in Rome, do what the Romans do become popular.

These outlets have mushroomed in the hill stations because we demand them. We as tourists are rarely curious about the place as much as we are about our hedonistic pleasures. While there is nothing wrong with that, it becomes a problem when we end up doing more harm than benefit. Its time we stop being selfish tourists and start travelling as curious travelers. Lets leave some places as pristine as nature created them.

 Wikimedia Commons
 $5 million in grants pledged by Detroit-based Quicken Loans to help improve up to 65 vacant houses for auction in four west side neighborhoods as part of the "Rehabbed and Ready" program.

 $1 million invested by JPMorgan Chase in a commercial building rehabilitation project on the city's North End. The funding is part of the bank's $100 million, five-year commitment to Detroit's economic recovery.

 Bank of America is part of a program that combines a zero-down, low-interest fixed rate mortgage on new, existing, and single to four-family homes and condominiums in Detroit. Renovation funds are included in the mortgages.

 Citizens Bank is funding a total of $175,000 in micro-grants to the Eastern Market Corp. in Detroit and small businesses in southeast Michigan. The money will be used for new equipment or other items intended to help the businesses expand or become more efficient.
Almost 100 people mostly from Haiti who were rescued from an overcrowded boat off the Florida coast had no food or water for...
An investigation into the littoral combat ship Fort Worth's engine breakdown in Singapore has led to the firing of the ship's commanding officer.

Cmdr. Michael Atwell was relieved today following an investigation into the circumstances surrounding an engineering casualty that sidelined the Fort Worth Jan. 12.

"While the investigation is still under review by leadership, sufficient findings of facts emerged during the investigation to warrant the relief of the commanding officer," officials with U.S. Pacific Fleet said in a news release.

A Pacific Fleet spokesman, Lt. Clint Ramsden, said the investigation, which was initiated by Task Force 73 Commander Rear Adm. Charles Williams, remains under leadership review. The extent of damage to the ship and the investigation's full conclusions regarding Atwell's actions have not been published, he said.

But, he said, "sufficient details emerged during the course of the investigation to warrant [Atwell's] relief."

Ramsden confirmed that the damage to the Fort Worth was the result of user error. During the startup of the main propulsion diesel engines, he said, lubrication oil was not properly applied to the ship's combining gears. This resulted in high temperature alarms to the port and starboard combining gears, he said.

In the wake of his relief, Atwell has been temporarily re-assigned to Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 1 in San Diego, according to the release. In his place, Cmdr. Lex Walker, deputy commodore of Destroyer Squadron 7, will take on temporary duties as Fort Worth commanding officer until a permanent commander is chosen.

The Fort Worth remains in Singapore while decisions are made as to how to fix it, officials said.

"We're weighing all options with regard to repair, so that's still an ongoing process," Ramsden said.

The second in the Freedom class of littoral combat ships, the Fort Worth had been on a 16-month deployment in the Indo-Asia-Pacific, hailed as a milestone of success for the LCS program.

Note: This story was updated to correct the attribution in the 6th paragraph.

-- Hope Hodge Seck can be reached at hope.seck@monster.com. Follow her on Twitter at @HopeSeck.
U.S. warplanes carried out airstrikes around Mosul on Monday in the intensifying effort to set conditions for retaking the ISIS stronghold in northwestern Iraq as part of the overall effort to defeat the terror group that has cost at least $6.5 billion, the U.S. military said.

Attack and fighter aircraft carried out four strikes near Mosul, hitting a headquarters and a tactical unit, destroying an assembly area and suppressing a mortar unit of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, according to a statement from Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve.

Six other strikes were conducted in Iraq, including one near Sinjar west of Mosul that hit an ISIS tactical unit and destroyed a heavy machine gun position, the task force said. U.S. and coalition manned aircraft and drones also conducted four strikes in Syria.

The latest strikes marked the third consecutive day of air operations in which the U.S. and the coalition carried out a total of 10 strikes in Syria and 51 in Iraq, including 12 around Mosul against the militant group

Since air operations began on Aug. 8, 2014, the U.S. and the coalition through the end of February had conducted a total of 10,962 strikes, including 7,336 in Iraq and 3,626 in Syria, according to the task force. The total cost of the military operation through February was $6.5 billion, or about $11.4 million daily.

Defense Secretary Ashton Carter and Joint Chiefs Chairman Marine Gen. Joseph Dunford have highlighted the campaigns to retake Mosul and Raqqa, the self-proclaimed ISIS capital in northeastern Syria as key to the ultimate defeat of the insurgency.

Last Friday, Carter and Dunford said they were pressing President Barack Obama to approve sending more troops to Iraq in the effort to accelerate the campaign following the March 22 Brussels attacks claimed by ISIS that killed at least 35 and wounded more than 270. An American airman and his family were among those injured in the bombings.

Dunford said that the campaign against ISIS was "gathering momentum" while critics of the strategy, which relies on U.S. support for local forces on the ground, said that the Brussels attacks showed that the ISIS threat had spread beyond Iraq and Syria.

Defense Department, State Department and White House officials have stated that the campaign against ISIS has made steady progress in the past year, noting that ISIS has lost about 40 percent of the territory it once held since the invasion of Iraq in the spring of 2014.

The first major setback for ISIS came in January 2015 when Kurdish forces pushed ISIS fighters out of the town of Kobane on the Turkish border in Syria. In March, Iraqi Security Forces, after several failed attempts, finally took Tikrit, hometown of the late dictator Saddam Hussein. In June, Syrian Kurds took the town of Tal Abyad controlling a supply route between Raqqa and Mosul.

In November, Iraqi Kurds backed by U.S. airstrikes retook Sinjar in northwestern and in December, ISIS suffered its biggest defeat in Iraq thus far with the fall of Ramadi, capital of Anbar province, to Iraqi forces.

-- Richard Sisk can be reached at Richard.Sisk@Military.com.
Everything You Need to Know About the Amazon Military Discount, Tips and Tricks

The Amazon military discount is a promotion Amazon.com has given around Veterans Day for its Amazon Prime service.
Dear Ms. Vicki,

I am going to get straight to the point: I've been talking to a guy who is in the Air Force, but he is currently deployed.

We have been friends for more than four years. This past October, we started considering the idea of a long-distance relationship. We are both from Washington, but he is stationed in Maryland. I am a student at the University of Texas and will graduate in May 2017. I have never been in a relationship before, especially not a long-distance one. He, on the other hand, has had experience in both areas.

We both love each other, but is that enough to make this relationship work? Who knows where the military is going to take him? Who knows where my career is going to take me? If I got a job opportunity in Maryland, I would definitely take it, but who knows if that will happen?

It also is frustrating because his last girlfriend was also in the Air Force and they both understood the endless acronyms and military life in general. I sometimes feel like I can't relate to him on that level, but he also doesn't understand college life. We both are doing something completely different from each other, but we still make time for each other.

My main question is, do these relationships work? By that, I mean relationships involving someone in the military and someone who is not? I feel like it would be hard to find common ground because, whether people like it or not, our careers do take up a good portion of our lives.

I just want to know if we are being stupid or naive to the odds that are against us. I know it is ultimately up to us, but I just need some insight. Please let me know your thoughts! Thank you so much.

-- Wants to Know

Dear Wants to Know,

Every relationship has challenges, right? But everyday people everywhere decide to embark on a journey together to see where it will take them. You and this guy have a lot more in common than you think.

Think about it: The military is full of acronyms. Your boyfriend will continue to use them and, in time, you will learn them, too. On the other hand, when your boyfriend is home from work and talking to you, he will probably want to leave work and the acronyms at work, unless he is sharing something with you. I think it's very important for couples to grow individually and as a couple.

Don't feel that you have to be the acronym girlfriend or that you have to compete with the girls he has dated who are in the military -- you don't. Just be yourself. I wouldn't say you are being naive, not yet. Now, if you dropped out of school, dropped everything and moved to Maryland, that would be naive. I would definitely advise you not to do that.

Bottom line, you are still getting to know each other. That's great! Love matters just as much as good common sense. Take some time and see where this relationship goes. Take care and keep in touch.

-- Ms. Vicki

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Spartan Motors

Daryl Adams (left), President and CEO, Spartan Motors, and Steve Guillaume (right), Division President, Specialty Vehicles, Spartan Motors

(Courtesy image/Spartan Motors)

Isuzu F-Series

DETROIT, MI - Spartan Motors, Inc. is adding a new, 85,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at its Charlotte, Mich. campus as part of an expanded contract with Isuzu North American Corporation.

Spartan Motors will invest $5.5 million at the site to build the Japanese automaker's F-Series truck, pictured at right. About 55 new jobs will be added.

The new facility will have flexible production line that allows Spartan Motors to scale production up or down quickly to meet demand. The company plans to host a groundbreaking April 19.

Spartan Motors has been working with Isuzu since 2011, producing the company's N-Series commercial trucks. The Charlotte facility will be dedicate solely to Isuzu products.

"Over the last 18 months, we have implemented a number of changes in different areas of the company which are driving increased revenue and business performance," Daryl Adams, president and CEO of Spartan Motors, said in a release. "However, when an existing customer such as Isuzu makes a multi-year commitment to Spartan, we feel that is the best validation that we are focused on the right things and making progress in the right areas."

Spartan Motors designs, engineers, builds and markets specialty vehicles, specialty chassis, vehicle bodies and parts for the light- and medium-duty truck markets. The company employs about 1,700 people in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Indiana.
1015Kmart_KYM001A.JPG

The former Kmart located on North Maple Road could be filled with national retailers HomeGoods and Stein Mart.

(File photo | The Ann Arbor News)

City permits show national retailers Home Goods and Steinmart are expected to move into the former Kmart store located at 215 N. Maple in the Maple Village shopping center.

Applications for permits have been submitted for interior demolition of the 103,000 square-foot building and a build out of the property for a "HomeGoods suite" and a "Stein Mart suite." Other city documents reference a Marshall's being located in the property, but plans for a Marshall's were not available.

The former Kmart is expected to be divided into four separate suites according to plans on the city of Ann Arbor website. The store closed early last year and was the last remaining Kmart in Washtenaw County.

Plans have been submitted for both the HomeGoods and Stein Mart stores. Cleveland-based Herschman Architects will be handling the build out of both stores. Cincinnati-based Brixmor owns the shopping center and has been quiet about plans for the property since Kmart closed.

The store has been used in recent months as a temporary storefront for seasonal retailers.

HomeGoods is a Framingham, Massachusetts-based home decor and accessories retailer with approximately 500 stores in the U.S. Stein Mart is a discount clothes and housewares retailer with 270 stores in the U.S. Stein Mart is based in Jacksonville, Florida.

Matt Durr is a business reporter for The Ann Arbor News. Email him at mattdurr@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI - After building several successful housing developments along the Medical Mile northeast of downtown Grand Rapids, Third Coast Development is looking west.

The company will be seeking state tax credits to build a $7.4 million housing and retail development project on the southeast corner of Alpine Avenue and Leonard Street NW.

The corner currently is occupied by a two-story building with a pawn shop and cell phone store. Developer Brad Rosely said they want to replace the aging structure with a new development that will include up to 30 apartments and 3,000 square feet of retail space.

Rosely, who said he will apply for the credits from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority in April, won a critical first step in the project on Thursday, March 24, when the city Planning Commission gave him conditional approval to tear down a house and garage located south of the corner on Alpine Avenue NW.

The housing and garage will need to be demolished to provide enough parking for the new development, said Rosely. His company has owned the duplex and garage since 2015.

Rosely said the proposed parking lot will fall within the parking zone established by the area-specific development plan for the West Grand Neighborhood.

Planning commissioners gave Rosely permission to demolish the buildings on the condition he wins approval for the Low Income Housing Tax Credits from the state.

The housing credits are used by developers as a financing tool for projects that provide housing for low and moderate income residents.

If he wins the competition for the housing credits, Rosely said he will meet with neighbors to discuss the design of the project before construction begins - possibly as soon as later this year.

Along Michigan Street NE at Diamond Avenue, Third Coast is in the process of planning a 150-unit housing project that will include retail space on the site of Proos Manufacturing Co.

Third Coast is one of the most active developers along the Medical Mile, having built Mid-Towne Village, which includes the Grand Rapids Women's Clinic, Park Place Condominiums and a Hampton Inn Suites Hotel, plus several other retail sites.

In 2012, Third Coast redeveloped a former lumber yard along Michigan Street into a retail, office and residential project.

In 2015, Third Coast broke ground for two apartment buildings, on each side of Union Avenue NE north of Michigan Street. When the $7.4 million project is completed this spring, it will add 26 new market-rate apartments and space for two retail outlets.

RELATED: Another apartment project proposed for Michigan Street's 'Medical Mile'

Jim Harger covers business for MLive/Grand Rapids Press. Email him at jharger@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter or Facebook or Google+.
The Washtenaw County Public Health Department's restaurant inspections for February, 2016 are in. Of the 181 restaurants and food service facilities inspected in February, 27 had two or more priority violations, which are the most serious violations that are most likely to lead to food-borne illness.

Thirteen restaurants this month had three or more priority violations, six restaurants had four or more, and four restaurants had five or more priority violations.

This month, 94 restaurants had zero priority violations, and 18 restaurants and institutions had no violations at all: Anthony's Gourmet Pizza (N Maple Rd.), Baymont Inn Suites (Chelsea), Bearclaw Coffee Co. (N. Territorial), Brecon Village Country Store, Calvary Bible Church, Chipotle Mexican Grill (S. State St.), Commonwealth, La Torre Taqueria Mexican Restaurant Llc, Little Caesar's Pizza Treat (W. Stadium Blvd.), Maize & Blue Deli (S. University), Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, St. Mary's Church, Star's Cafe, Stockwell's Home Cookin, Subway (Plymouth Rd.), Subway #4824 (N Maple), Zingerman's "Next Door" and Zingerman's Mail Order.

Below is a searchable table of February 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 February restaurant inspection reports, with a focus on the restaurants with the largest number of priority violations:

Prickly Pear Cafe (328 S. Main St.) had the most priority violations in this month's report with seven, and a total of 14 violations.



Observed a large beef shoulder that was cooked the night prior at 46F and still in the cooling process, located in the walk-in cooler in whole beef form. Cooked potentially hazardous food shall be cooled: (1) Within 2 hours from 135F to 70F; P and (2) Within a total of 6 hours from 135F to 41F or less. P To correct: discard the noted food and discontinue cooling large whole beef in whole form. Correction Detail: Person in charge discarded the noted food and stated that they would cut the beef to cool it in the future.

Observed the following soiled food contact surfaces: 1. Container of dishes soiled with old food debris and described as clean dishes, located on top of a chemical bucket by the dishwasher. 2. Coffee cup of utensils soiled with a food debris build up located under the server pass through window soiled. 3. Can opener blade soiled with food debris build up, located in the basement prep. 4. Underside side of the mixing arm soiled with a oil debris build up, located in the basement prep. 5. Soiled container of measuring cups in the clean dish storage container, located in the basement prep. 6. Soiled knife with a food debris build up, located in the basement prep in the two door upright cooler. Equipment FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES and UTENSILS shall be cleaned: (1) Except as specified in # (B) of this section, before each use with a different type of raw animal FOOD such as beef, FISH, lamb, pork, or POULTRY; (P) (2) Each time there is a change from working with raw FOODS to working with READY-TO-EAT FOODS; (P) (3) Between uses with raw fruits and vegetables and with POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD (TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD); (P) (4) Before using or storing a FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE; (P) and (5) At any time during the operation when contamination may have occurred. (P) To correct wash, rinse and sanitize the noted items.

Observed the following: 1. Herb Pepper Vinaigrette dressing made with fresh garlic and oil sitting out on the cutting board for about 2 hours and at 67F. 2. Cooked chicken made 1.5 hours prior to inspection sitting out on the cutting board at 90F. POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD that is to be cold shall be held at 41F or below. To correct move noted items into the cooler to rapidly cool it down to 41F or below. Corrected: Person in charge moved the noted items to the cooler to rapidly cool them to 41F or below.

Observed the following passed the facility use by date: 1. Black bean rellios 2/10. 2. Chicken rellios 2/10. 3. Coconut rum butter 2/9. 4. Sweet Habanero sauce 2/9. 5. Chipotle butter 2/9. 6. Tomatillo 2/9. A FOOD shall be discarded if it Is appropriately marked with a date or day that exceeds a temperature and time combination as specified in # 3-501.17(A). (P) To correct discard the noted items into the garbage. Corrected: Person in charge discarded the noted items into the garbage.

Observed 2 logs of Cotija cheese that were moldy in the one door upright cooler on the cook line. Note: Food was also missing date marking. FOOD shall be safe, unadulterated, and honestly presented. (P) To correct discard the noted items into the garbage. Corrected: Person in charge discarded the noted items into the garbage.

Observed clean dishes being stored on top of the chemical buckets for the dish washer. POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL shall be stored so they can not contaminate FOOD, EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, LINENS, AND SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ARTICLES by: (A) Separating the POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL by spacing or partitioning; (P) and (B) Locating the POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIAL in an area that is not above FOOD, EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, LINENS, AND SINGLE-SERVICE AND SINGLE-USE ARTICLES. This paragraph does not apply to EQUIPMENT and UTENSIL cleaners and sanitizers that are stored in WARE WASHING areas for availability and convenience if the materials are stored to prevent contamination of FOOD, EQUIPMENT, UTENSILS, LINENS, AND SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES. (P) To correct rewash all dishes stored on the chemical bucket and discontinue storing clean dishes on chemical bucket. Corrected: Person in charge had all dishes rewashed and stored away from chemical buckets.

Observed the dishwasher not washing hands between working with soiled dishes and putting away clean dishes. FOOD EMPLOYEES shall clean their hands and exposed portions of their arms as specified under # 2-301.12 immediately before engaging in FOOD preparation including working with exposed FOOD, clean EQUIPMENT and UTENSILS, and unwrapped SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES (P) and: (A) After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean, exposed portions of arms; (P) (B) After using the toilet room; (P) (C) After caring for or handling SERVICE ANIMALS or aquatic animals as specified in # 2-403.11(B); (P). (D) Except as specified in # 2-401.11(B), after coughing, sneezing, using a handkerchief or disposable tissue, using tobacco, eating, or drinking; (P) (E) After handling soiled EQUIPMENT or UTENSILS; (P) (F) During FOOD preparation, as often as necessary to remove soil and contamination and to prevent cross contamination when changing tasks; (P) (G) When switching between working with raw FOOD and working with READY-TO-EAT FOOD; (P) (H) Before donning gloves for working with FOOD; (P) and (I) After engaging in other activities that contaminate the hands. (P) To correct retrain all employees on when to wash hands.

Asia City Restaurant (2905 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti) had the most total violations in this report with 17. Five of those violations were priority violations.



Cooked potatoes wrapped in aluminum foil found on a sheet tray in the prep unit on the make line at 53 - 55 degrees f which had been cooked and cooled from previous night. Potentially hazardous foods are required to go through the temperature danger zone while cooling rapidly from 135 - 70 degrees f in two hours and from 70 - 41 degrees f in an additional 4 hours. The potatoes did not meet this requirement for rapid cooling. Corrected by discarding potatoes at time of inspection., numerous foods found in the walk in freezer stored on the floor under shelves and uncovered. Keep all foods covered and stored a minimum of 6" above the floor to allow access for routine cleaning. Correct as indicated above.

Numerous food contact surfaces were found soiled and not being cleaned at the proper required cleaning frequency, including the slicer, dough mixer and attachments, cutting boards, knives, hooks for smoking duck, noodle tongs for dim sum, tongs, strainers, the undersides of all prep unit lid covers in both main kitchen and dim sum area, food thermometer stem, clean dishes on dim sum side on shelf. All food contact surfaces used for potentially hazardous foods must be cleaned a minimum of once every four hours to reduce potential for contamination of foods. To correct retrain employee on proper cleaning frequencies as indicated above. All soiled food contact surfaces were sent to dishroom for immediate cleaning at time of inspection.

Large tub of cut cabbage found sitting out on cart at room temperature. Once cabbage is cut it is potentially hazardous and must be kept cold at 41 degrees f and may not be stored on a cart sitting out at room temperature. Maintain 41 degrees f or below to minimize potential for bacterial growth and toxin production. Corrected by discarding cabbage. Pig ear found in standing water after thawing at 71 degrees F. PIC indicates had just thawed out within 1/2 hour. Once thawed place back into cooler until ready to cook or continue the cooking process. Maintain proper temperature control of 41 degrees f or below. Corrected by boiling pig ear immediately and finishing cook process within an additional 15 minutes.

Cooked cabbage and spinach cheese casserole found on the hot buffet at 100 degrees f and 115 degrees f respectively. Potentially hazardous foods must be maintained hot at 135 degrees f or above to minimize potential for bacterial growth and toxin production. These foods were found double panned to prevent drying out and therefore were unable to maintain 135 degrees f. All other foods on the buffet were above 135 degrees f. Discontinue double panning or make sure there is hot water in the lower pan to keep foods at 135 degrees f. Corrected by discarding food at time of inspection. , house prepared mold kimchee found in the walk in cooler. All food is to be inspected routinely for mold, spoilage etc. Any foods found in this condition are to be discarded. Corrected by discarding food at time of inspection. See comment section regarding house prepared kim chee.

House prepared mold kimchee found in the walk in cooler. All food is to be inspected routinely for mold, spoilage etc. Any foods found in this condition are to be discarded. Corrected by discarding food at time of inspection. See comment section regarding house prepared kim chee. , cooked potatoes wrapped in aluminum foil found on a sheet tray in the prep unit on the make line at 53 - 55 degrees f which had been cooked and cooled from previous night. Potentially hazardous foods are required to go through the temperature danger zone while cooling rapidly from 135 - 70 degrees f in two hours and from 70 - 41 degrees f in an additional 4 hours. The potatoes did not meet this requirement for rapid cooling. Corrected by discarding potatoes at time of inspection.

At a follow-up inspection on 3/8, violations were found to have been corrected.

Happy's Pizza #38 (2896 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti) had 16 total violations. Five were priority violations.



Observed no hand washing when changing tasks: 1) cook line: observed employee remove gloves not wash their hands. 2) dishwashing area: staff handling soiled dishware then handling clean utensils without hand washing. To correct, hands must be washed after handing raw animal food, soiled dishware or other sources of possible contamination. Retrain staff on when to wash requirements.

The white tub where the sifter and flour are stored are cleaned at the end of the day. Since raw chicken comes in direct contact with the tub, the frequency of cleaning is at least every 4 hours after initial use. It is recommended that the facility provides additional tubs for ease of changing out tubs every 4 hours. A minimum of once of every 4 hours is required for the tubs to be washed-rinsed-sanitized to minimize potential for bacteria growth. To correct provide additional tubs, increase frequency of cleaning to once every 4 hours, and retrain employees on new frequency of cleaning schedule.

Observed the sanitizer portion of the 3-compartment sink filled with sanitizer and soiled dishes. 3-compartment sinks must be set up to properly wash-rinse-sanitize equipment. To correct, properly set up the 3-compartment sink and retrain employees how to properly wash-rinse sanitize. Partially corrected: the 3-compartment sink was properly set up to wash-rinse sanitize.

Observed ground beef at 48-52 f and cooked sausage at 46 f in the standing pepsi cooler near the prep table. Potentially hazardous foods need to be held at 41f or below to minimize potential for bacterial growth. PIC corrected by discarding cooked ground beef and by putting cooked sausage in the walk-in cooler to cool back down to 41f. Will use these items within the next 2 hours or discard if not used within this time frame. Observed sliced ham at 48 f and pepperoni at 49 f in the speed rack of the 3-door pizza prep cooler. Potentially hazardous foods need to be held at 41f or below to minimize potential for bacterial growth. PIC corrected by putting sliced ham and pepperoni in the walk-in cooler to cool back down to 41f. Will use these items within the next 2 hours or discard if not used within this time frame.

Observed no hot water in the food establishment. Observed a leaking pipe down stream of the relief valve on the hot water tank. Observed plastic cup lids being used as drain plugs at the 3-compartment sink. Plumbing must be maintained in good repair and maintained according to law. To correct, provide hot water in the food establishment, provide drain plugs for the 3-compartment sink, and repair leaking hot water tank.

Wolverine State Brewing Company (2019 W. Stadium Blvd) had four priority violations - out of a total of seven - in this month's report.



Observed hose to wash inside brewery kettles/equipment not food grade quality. Hoses must be food grade approved for washing the inside of brewery equipment to minimize the potential for contamination of equipment. To correct replace hose.,

Observed an air gap missing at drain hoses from kettles and keg cleaner. An air gap must be provided at least twice the diameter of the inlet hose or but not less than 1 inch to minimize the potential for water supply contamination. To correct provide air gaps.

Observed the following potentially hazardous, ready to eat foods beyond their expiration date marked by establishment: 1. Sliced pastrami lunch meat 2/3/16 2. Cooked shredded pork 1/26/16 3. Cooked noodles 1/29/16 4. Sauerkraut 1/31/16 5. Smoked salsa 1/29/16 all potentially hazardous foods which are ready to eat must be consumed or discarded within 7 days of prep date. Assign and retrain staff on proper rotation of product. Corrected by discarding items. Corrected

Observed large containers of green peppers and sweet potatoes in WIC moldy and block of cheddar cheese in reach in cooler. Mold on food is a source of contamination. Food must be safe, unadulterated and honestly presented to the consumer. Corrected by discarding these items. Corrected.

At a follow-up inspection on March 1, the priority violations from the hose and the air gaps were noted as corrected.

Ypsilanti Marriott (1275 S. Huron St., Ypsilanti) had seven total violations in this month's report. Four of those violations were priority.



Observed water back-up onto floor at drain handsink located at dishmachine area. Disposal system must be maintained in good repair to minimize the potential for contamination. To correct repair clogged drain.

Observed dishmachine at bar not sanitizing with surface temperture of 160 degrees f. To properly sanitize dishes the dishmachine must reach a surface temperature of at least 160 degrees. To correct repair dishmachine.

Observed the following food items in reach in cooler (#17) to be above 41 degrees f. 1. Raw pork chops 45 degrees f 2. Calamari 45 degrees f 3. Raw salmon burgers 45 degrees f 4. Cooked sausage 43 degrees f all potentially hazardous foods must be kept at 41 degrees f or below to minimize the potential for microbial growth. Corrected by discarding these items and additional PHF foods being stored in cooler (i.e. brisket, mozzarella cheese, tuna steak, hunter sauce).

Observed moldy pita bread along cookline and spoiled melons in walk in produce cooler. Safe unadulterated food must be provided to consumer. Corrected by discarding products at time of inspection.

At a follow-up inspection on March 4, the plumbing issues with the handsink drain and the dish machine were noted as corrected.

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 and life and culture for MLive and The Ann Arbor News. Reach her at JessicaWebster@mlive.com. You also can follow her on Twitter and on Google+.
A frenetic first days trading on the Yangon Stock Exchange saw First Myanmar Investments share price jump almost 20 percent as hundreds of people waited in line to open trading accounts.





The day began before sunrise for some prospective traders, who started queuing outside KBZ Stirling Coleman Securities on Strand Road at around 5:30am, said Rudi Rolles, managing director at KBZ SC Securities.

KBZ SC Securities is one of the firms that helped FMI with its listing and through which the public can buy shares. That requires opening a trading account, and security guards handed out cans of cold drink to a queue that stretched out of the door and down the street.

Some had yet to decide if they would purchase shares. But Daw Pyone Myat Thu Aung, who was queuing to open her first account and try her hand at trading, thought the outlook for FMI was good.

She was planning on only investing a small amount, but had taught a course on accounting and understood the basics of the stock exchange. FMI is a good company and she expects to make a profit on any shares bought, she said.

Others were already shareholders. U Min Naing, a 45-year-old sailor, owns 200 shares in Myanmar Thilawa SEZ Holdings, the next company scheduled to list on the exchange. He was queuing to transfer the physical shares to an online account at KBZ SC, and had already made a profit on his holdings.

He bought 350 shares over a year ago for K10,000 each and recently sold 150 for K76,000, he said.





Its been very profitable for me, but I dont know about others, he said of share trading. He was cautious about the outlook for MTSHs share price after the companys scheduled listing next month.

It just depends on the market, he said.

Over at the stock exchange, groups of people had also arrived early to view the first days trading. Several said they wanted to wait and see how FMIs share price moved in the coming months, and how other listings would affect the value.

Based on a single mornings trading the short-term outlook for FMIs share price looked strong. Trading started at a base price of K26,000 with an upper limit for the day set at K31,000. The first matching session between buyers and sellers took place at 11am, when some 42,000 shares were traded  all at the K31,000 limit.

Inside KBZ SC account holders sat on one side of the room writing their orders on paper before taking them across to the other side to be processed.

By May or June it will be possible for people to place orders using a mobile app or on the internet, but for the next few weeks orders will have to be made in person or over the phone, Mr Rolles said. Phone calls started as soon as KBZ SC opened for the day, he added.

At a second matching session at 1pm the shares were unable to trade any higher, but another 70,845 were sold at the K31,000 limit. There were 13,000 other bids at K31,000 that failed to find a seller, Mr Rolles said.

The near-20pc jump in the share price meant FMI started the day with a market capitalisation of K610 billion and finished the day worth K727 billion, according to the YSX.

FMIs chief financial officer U Tun Tun said that the future market price for FMIs shares would depend on the companys progress and the information it intends to provide to the public, while U Min Thu, a senior manager at the YSXs market department, deemed the first day a success.

FMI will start trading on March 28 with an upper limit of K36,000 and a lower limit of K26,000. If the share price rises above K40,000 it will be able to move K10,000 in a single day.

U Maung Maung Thein, chair of the Myanmar Securities and Exchange Commission (SECM), had told The Myanmar Times that on the first days trading matching would occur every 30 minutes and that the share price would not be allowed to move more than 5pc in either direction.

But Mr Rolles said there had been some last-minute changes to the plan.

They initially wanted to keep the trading window open for only 30 minutes, he said, but there had been too many buyers.

Its been a bit of a frenzy, he said. Wed have preferred a less strict limit [on how far the share price can increase].

KBZ SC research puts a target share price for FMI at K42,000.

Additional reporting by Su Phyo Win
Hanoi-based telecoms operator Viettel has been granted the right to negotiate with a local consortium, including a military-run partner, with a view to receiving a minority stake in a company that is likely to be awarded Myanmars long-anticipated fourth telecoms licence.





Viettel, which is owned by Vietnams defence ministry, was one of seven foreign companies to express interest in a tender launched at the end of last year.

Of the five companies deemed suitable to apply, the Vietnamese operator was the only one to submit its proposal by the deadline on March 18, said a source with knowledge of the matter.

They passed the eligibility criteria and confirmed they were willing to pay their share of the licence fee price, they said, asking not to be named.

Following negotiations with the domestic special purpose vehicle and the government partner, they can apply to PTD [the communications ministrys Posts and Telecommunications Department] for a licence.

Those that have watched the telecoms sector over the last few years may feel a sense of deja vu.

This is not the first time Viettel has come close to signing a deal for the licence  in late 2014 it planned to sign an US$800 million contract with local firm Yatanarpon Teleport, according to Reuters, but the deal fell through.





If this new tie-up is approved, the company will join a local group of 11 public Myanmar firms and a subsidiary of military-run Myanmar Economic Corporation, to form a joint venture that should receive the markets fourth licence for nationwide services.

The United States Treasury includes Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) on its list of specially designated nationals, an inventory of individuals and organisations that Americans cannot engage with except in special cases.

The military-owned shareholder was nominated by the Ministry of Defence and is called Star High Public Company, according to a document seen by The Myanmar Times. The company is not yet listed on the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration website.

Myanmar Economic Corporation also owns an operator known as MECtel.

MECtel is a brand, not an entity, so it was not technically possible for it to become the government partner [in the fourth telco], said the source.

Star High Public Company was chosen because it offers access to 1000 towers and more than 13,000 kilometres (8100 miles) of fibre, among other telecoms assets, making the business case for the fourth operator viable, they added.

Joint venture commission and tender selection chair U Zaw Oo said the military company was chosen in part because it could offer support for the fourth telco.

Governmental enterprises were invited to participate in the fourth operator business, and MEC took a shot, he said.

Other government entities  also recommended MEC would be the most suitable government shareholder because they are already operating telecoms-related services in the country and have an infrastructure network.

The new operator could do with a launchpad, as it will enter a tough market where competition is already fierce. Around 70 percent is occupied by foreign entrants Ooredoo and Telenor and state-owned incumbent MPT.

If negotiations are successful, Viettel will pay 49 percent of a $300 million licence fee, equivalent to its prospective holding in the company.

This is lower than fees paid by the two foreign operators already in the market, which both own 100pc of their operations  Norwegian operator Telenor paid $500 million and Qatars Ooredoo was reported to pay more than $1 billion.

Myanma Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) declined to comment on the amount it paid for its licence.

Both Ooredoo and Telenor earlier in the year approached the government over the issue of a level playing field for all players in the telecoms market.

Telenor CEO Petter Furberg told The Myanmar Times in February he hoped the government would ensure the new operator entered the market with the same rollout requirements and licence fee payments.

However an industry insider at that time said the new player would probably pay a lower licence fee as it would arrive late to the market and expect to make less profit.

The joint venture commission said the fourth telcos late entrance into a saturated market warranted a lower set price for spectrum. [We] consider these conditions to be fair and in line with the ones under which the other foreign telecom operators obtained their licence, it said.

Recent figures provided by the top three telcos put SIM card subscriptions in the country at around 39 million. A MECTel company official reported in August 2015 that the operator had 3.8 million customers.

Ooredoo CEO Rene Meza put real penetration in the market at about 45 percent, as many users carry more than one SIM card.

Myanmars telecoms industry looks drastically different than even five years ago, when SIM cards were sold through a lottery and could cost thousands of dollars on the black market.

U Zaw Oo said that the fourth operator is being encouraged to provide affordable and accessible telecoms services to the public  especially those who live outside its urban centres.

We outlined that perhaps the fourth operator can focus more on rural areas as a way to narrow the digital divide, he said.

Value-added services were also sought, with U Zaw Oo highlighting fixed-line internet and mobile money.

The government has had plans for a fourth telco for years. Now, with an end to the process in sight and targeted for June, it seems likely its vision will finally materialise  but the Viettel tie-up isnt yet a done deal, according to the joint venture committees March 25 announcement.

Following the negotiations, the parties will form a joint venture corporation that will apply for the fourth operator licence, it said. Since there is no back-up applicant, the committee recommends an alternative plan to be worked out in case the negotiations are not successful.
Two zones with activities, information, performances and workshops encourage understanding





In Thailand, when an automobile accident happens, the local Thai people often say, Must have been a Myanmar driver. When a crime occurs, the police are quick to apprehend Myanmar migrant workers.

Its an attitude that the Museum Siam hopes to change with its new Myanmar Up-Close exhibition in Bangkok, where museum visitors will have a chance to experience the life story of the average Myanmar person in Thailand.

Rames Promyen, the director of the National Discovery Museum Institute, said the exhibit is an attempt to promote the Thai publics understanding of their neighbours.

Myanmar Up-Close profoundly exhibits the life story of Myanmar people in Thailand in various aspects  hope, dream, social adaptation, survival strategy, and also [the] Burmeses contribution to society, he said in a statement. A lot of us never notice how our neighbours living is, but [instead] build the prejudice and begin to stereotype them all.

The exhibition is divided into two zones: the Guests House, which shows actual living circumstances of Myanmar people in Thailand, and the Guess House, which confronts various myths about Myanmar people that are perpetuated by historical textbooks in Thailand.





In the Guest House, you might encounter a golden-tiered umbrella from Thong Pha Phum, or information about schools for underprivileged youth. Theres even an area that explains Myanmar peoples views toward their future.

The Guess House is more likely to host some of the peripheral activities included in the five-month project. The museum has planned performances, talks and workshops relating to the central theme, with an activity held almost every weekend from now until July 31.

Its a step toward friendship for two countries that, on the surface, seem to be in good condition. However, individual perceptions of Myanmar people tend toward the negative in Thailand. Most recently, a Thai court sentenced two Myanmar migrants to death penalty for the murder of two British tourists in Koh Tao in what many believed was an unjust trial. Two more migrants await trial for the stabbing of a 19-year-old Thai woman in the southern town of Ranong in October 2015.

This not-so-open-minded situation makes it difficult for people to live together as one, even though our ASEAN countries have been integrated to achieve harmony, Promyen said.

To find out more about the exhibit or visit yourself, check the Facebook page for Museum Siam Fan or call number 02-225-2777.
After spending five months lurking in the undergrowth The Blind Tiger emerged from the jungle at a new downtown location. Its exile has resulted in a leaner, more modern and more mature speakeasy-style bar that maintains all of its best characteristics whilst offering some new delights.





The low-key re-opening on Friday, March 18, was attended by many of the speakeasys loyal customers who had been eagerly anticipating the return of one of Yangons most stylish watering holes.

The previous iteration of the cocktail bar had been chased away by a mob of condominium committee members armed with metaphorical sticks and anti-alcohol attitudes.

One of the owners, Sophie Barry, told The Myanmar Times all about it.

We had a few issues, she said, referring to the dispute with the buildings committee.

They kind of had it in for us, said Darren Conway, another co-owner.

Previously located at the back of a large residential and office condominium on Nawaday Street, The Blind Tiger had drawn the ire of local residents who were resistant to the idea of an alcohol-serving restaurant being located so close to a school and their homes.





The argument was hard to win; it was purely ideological. The 9-inch (23-centimetre) cement walls and heavy wooden door prevented any noise disturbance  at least they never received any complaints about noise  and they adhered to the correct closing time.

After a lengthy battle to maintain their presence on Nawaday Street The Blind Tigers management chose not to extend their contract which ran out in October 2015. The Tiger had been forced out.

We tried everything to fight them [and stay there] but we lost, Sophie Barry said.

After one failed move  which ran into the same resistance from local residents  the owners hesitated.

We couldnt get any assurances that we wouldnt be shut down again. she said, knowing that anything can happen when you are actually putting more money in to set up a place, and still you have no idea.

However, The Blind Tiger survived because of the persistence and dedication of its owners (who also have proper day jobs), manager and staff. The new location on Seik Kan Thar Road underwent a two-and-a-half-month renovation, with most of the interior simply transplanted from the original.

The decor and atmosphere are the result of the owners discerning tastes.

I know what I like and what I want, Barry said. I want it to be a place where you can sit at the bar and the barman can chat to you; where you can feel at home.

She has a track record of frequenting, as well as running, bars. She opened a Mexican bar in Afghanistan, and soon recognised the need for a similar haven for the expat community here in Yangon. Twenty years ago she met friend, and eventual co-owner, Darren Conway whilst filming in Yangon and discussed the idea of opening a bar. That dream became a reality, and together with Stephen Pettifore, a British art curator based in Bangkok, the first Blind Tiger was born.

Now Penny, the Tigers capable manager, will take the reins of The Blind Tiger 2.0 alongside half the old staff  who have been retained for good reason.

The best thing about The Blind Tiger was that it was always like a family, Barry told The Myanmar Times. Its difficult to get good staff, and keep them. There are so many things opening up and more opportunities that you might lose them.

Also returning is The Blind Tigers signature collection of home-made infused alcohols and cocktails sprouting from the uninhibited imagination of the resident cocktail master. The selection of tapas and other nibbles remain, but will soon be joined by a variety of seasonal salads and sandwiches when The Blind Tiger begins serving lunch after Thingyan.

Aesthetically, not too much has changed. The maroon and gold wallpaper has been replaced by a new black and gold motif which complements the exposed brickwork and steel beams of the 1920s building the Tiger inhabits. The mezzanine level offers an extra level of intrigue, but the biggest addition is a secluded and intimate eight-person private dining area.

Offering pure escapism with its chic and easy going ambiance, all amid rotating pan-Asian art exhibitions, The Blind Tiger is sure to provide an experience that will make you want to return to the den.

For the moment the opening times are 3pm until 11pm, but the upcoming lunch service will soon see The Blind Tigers door open at 11am.

The Blind Tiger

93/95 Seik Kan Thar Road (lower block)

Kyauktada township,

Yangon

Phone: 09-786833847
Even though they will not be allowed to operate, over two dozen limbo hotels in historic Bagan can finish up construction, a recent directive said. The properties still cannot accept a single guest, but will be permitted to function as a private residence instead, according to the Bagan Heritage Management Committee.





Its a small consolation for 25 of the 42 pending guesthouses, and doesnt look remuneratively promising.

The guesthouses and hotels are primarily 10- or 12-room properties that would be run by locals looking to cash in on the hordes of tourists coming to see ancient Bagan.

But as the city launched a campaign for World Heritage Listing from UNESCO, the Ministry of Culture reinstated a ban on properties deemed too close to the ancient pagodas in 2014.

Scores of hotels already line the fringes around the iconic temples, as many were built before the 1998 law banning development inside cultural heritage sites was enacted. Others were allowed later in contravention of the law, some by businesses with links to the regime, and some even cite official permission to build obtained from the Department of Archaeology and National Museum.

But since seeking the prestigious heritage listing  which officials hope to achieve by 2017  the city has been scrutinising guesthouses with renewed vigour, including a series of inspections conducted by outside experts.

Earlier this month, 129 properties deemed to be operating too close to the ancient site were given a 10-year edict to move to a special hotel zone. The 42 mom-and-pop hotels engaged in various states of construction were told to halt operations. Sixteen of those guesthouses say they already hold licenses.





The 25 buildings under construction can apply to complete construction as a residential building but they cannot operate as a hotel, motel or guest house legally, said the March 20 directive to Bagan hoteliers.

The 17 proposed hotels will not be allowed to resume operations, the statement added.

The hoteliers have already put together a rebuttal and last week submitted a petition asking the Presidents Office to reconsider the Bagan Heritage Management Committees directive.

We cant accept this decision since it is not fair, one hotelier said. We already submitted for a licence and it was approved by the Ministry of Culture. Yet before we could open, they have changed their minds and now say our investment can only function as a residential building.

U Tin Htoo Maung, Nyaun-U district administrator, told The Myanmar Times the directive from the Bagan Heritage Management Committee should not be treated as the final word, but instead the Archaeology Department, the City Development Committee and the Tourism Department all need to discuss and align their policies.

They have nothing to worry about if their hotel licences are really legal, he said of the hoteliers.

For 15 of the hotels hoping to take reservations for Thingyan, the heritage committees directive was a crushing blow.

We already accepted room bookings for Thingyan so will we be compensated for the losses? Will we have to pay for guests to have other accommodation? a hotelier said.

Sai Kyaw Ohn, deputy minister for tourism, said he had reservations about the recent decisions surrounding the Bagan hotels.

In my opinion, all the hotels should be allowed to operate at least 10 years after finishing building, he said.
Great things are expected from incoming tourism minister U Ohn Maung.





Imprisoned after he won his seat in the 1990 election, his qualifications as a supporter of the National League for Democracy are clear. But he also has practical tourism and hotel experience dating back to the socialist era, having run the countrys only guesthouse, beside Inle Lake.

Tourism professionals have seized upon his nomination as minister for hotels and tourism. U Yan Win, chair of the Myanmar Tourism Federation, told The Myanmar Times on March 22 that the industry expected more support from the incoming government.

The outgoing government drew up a six-point master plan, along with private companies. The government provided assistance with one of the points, but we had to do the other five with international support. We didnt get much help from the government, he said, adding that the government had not established a hospitality training school and had done little to promote tourism, compared to other ASEAN countries.

We welcome the appointment of a new minister with a lot of tourism experience. We hope this will translate into government support, said U Yan Win, who said no government funding to implement the tourism master plan had been received over the past five years.

The sector is bound to improve if we get the same level of support as Thailand, Cambodia and Singapore, he said.

U Kyaw Min Oo, managing director of Equalink Travel, said, Tourism is one of the most important sectors in the economy. We need a minister of quality and experience to help us compete in the international market.

He criticised what he called a lack of government support for the industry, as well as apparent policy confusion that resulted in the construction of dozens of limbo hotels in Bagan that were unable to accept guests despite receiving initial government approval.





We want to focus on community-based tourism in each state and region, and ensure that the hotel zones are in the right places. The Inle hotel zone is in the wrong place. The tourism ministry should work with local communities in Bagan and elsewhere over the tourism zone entry fees. Culture, handicraft, hotel services and capacity-building also require support and improvement. We hope for the best from the new minister, and will keep a close eye on his progress, he said.

Outgoing deputy minister for tourism Sai Kyaw Ohn said he had recommended U Ohn Maung for the ministry because of his experience.

Matters will improve under him. This is the right time to develop the tourism industry, now that other countries are interested in Myanmar, he said.
Two women are expected to be named on the list of chief ministers for the 14 states and regions to be confirmed in office by the incoming National League for Democracy government today, according to leaked accounts.





The names of the chief ministers are set to be announced during sessions of the state and regional assemblies.

According to unofficial lists circulating on social media, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has selected all 14 chief ministers, all from her party, although the NLD failed to win majorities in three states  Shan, Rakhine and Kachin  in last Novembers elections.

Appointments of chief ministers are the prerogative of the president and the NLD resisted strong lobbying to appoint a chief minister from the ranks of the Arakan National Party which won a majority of the elected posts in Rakhine. Instead, the NLD is expected to appoint U Nyi Pu, chair of the state party and an ethnic Rakhine, for what may prove the sternest test of the NLDs abilities to forge workable coalitions in a state where communal tensions are running high.

U Thein Seins outgoing military-backed government had no women chief ministers. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi  who is the only woman in the Union cabinet she appointed  has chosen two. Daw Khin Htwe Myint is set to become Kayin States chief minister while Daw Lae Lae Maw is expected to lead Tanintharyi Region.

U Lin Htut is seen as the front-runner for Shan State where the NLD had also come under pressure from ethnic minority parties to share executive power.

Other appointments are expected to include U Khat Aung for Kachin, U L Phaong Sho for Kayah, Salai Hleng Lwe for Chin, U Mahn Jaw Ni for Ayeyarwady, U Min Min Oo for Mon, U Myint Naing for Sagaing, U Win Thein for Bago, U Aung Moe Nyo for Magwe, U Phyo Min Thein for Yangon and party spokesperson U Zaw Myint Maung for Mandalay.
Outgoing Information Minister Ye Htut, no stranger to controversy, has been blasted on social media for justifying the way ministers in the departing cabinet have emptied their government housing of all furniture, even carrying away the plants.





U Ye Htut posted on Facebook that he had argued with NLD spokesperson U Win Htein who had complained that the new ministers will walk into empty housing this week.

The government was providing empty houses to new ministers, except for one air conditioner, electricity and water system, just as it had with previous ministers under official regulations, U Ye Htut said. The Ministry of Construction had also budgeted K3 million (US$2500) for each minister to buy furniture.

Once they end their ministerial appointments, they are allowed take all interior fittings and hand over empty houses, not even leaving a plant they have grown, he wrote on March 24, the day the hluttaw approved the 18 new ministers.

And if K3 million is not enough, then the new NLD government can spend K100 million if it wants, the former lieutenant colonel told U Win Htein, adding that he had chosen to live in his own house after becoming a minister in August 2014.

Nearly 4000 Facebook users have since slammed U Ye Htut and the outgoing cabinet team.

Thiha Sa Khan Thit, a cartoonist, lampooned the ministers with his drawings, one showing a man carrying a toilet and chasing after a truck piled high with goods, even a tree.





It was really shameful what the ex-ministers did. I dont want any more, he wrote.

NLD leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who is to take four ministerial positions but is not expected to occupy the rather sterile government housing blocks, has told her ministers that they will have to use their own money for furniture. She has also warned them against spending excessively on official trips abroad.

She told us to be frugal with our expenses, that we could not ask the government to buy furniture in ministerial housing and that we should leave everything when we end our terms, Thura U Aung Ko, the incoming minister for religion and culture, told reporters.
The decision by National League for Democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi MP to include herself in the cabinet of incoming President U Htin Kyaw has, by simultaneously removing her both from control of her party and from parliamentary activity, raised unprecedented political and constitutional questions.





Under the constitution that bars her from the presidency, cabinet members must quit their parliamentary seats and forswear party membership. Even under the Union Solidarity and Development Party government, despite the close links between party and army, ructions arose between leading party and military figures over, for instance, the presidential aspirations of former Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann. How the new alignment of NLD, parliament and cabinet will work out is a question that has aroused intense interest.

U Htin Kyaw, who takes office on April 1, announced on March 22 that he will reduce the number of ministries from 36 to 21. Under the constitution, three of those ministries  defence, home affairs and border affairs  remain under military control, and the Tatmadaw commander-in-chief has already named their incumbents.

Of the remaining 18 posts, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will take four: foreign affairs, the Presidents Office, education, and energy and electricity.

Her position as foreign minister will entitle her to membership of the shadowy but apparently powerful 11-member National Defence and Security Council, a predominantly military body charged with key functions under the military-drafted 2008 constitution.

Members include the president, the two vice presidents  one of whom is appointed by the military  the two parliamentary Speakers, the military commander-in-chief and his deputy, and the ministers of defence, foreign affairs, home affairs and border affairs.

The NDSC has the constitutional right to grant amnesty, cut diplomatic ties with foreign countries and draft civilians into the Tatmadaw. Most importantly, in case of a state of emergency, the council can approve a request from the president to hand over power to the military.

However, the full extent of its powers and responsibilities, rules of procedure and methods of functioning, are unclear. Little is known about how it operated over the past five years; of its members, only former Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann discussed meetings publicly. It is not known, for instance, whether decisions in the council are taken by majority vote, which would give six members representing or appointed by the military a slight edge over the five civilian members.





Commentators see worrying potential for gridlock in the council as its military and civilian members square off in a body whose role is vague and whose rights lack legitimacy.

The secretive council will pit the countrys two most powerful people against each other across the table: Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and armed forces Commander-in-Chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

Many have welcomed her decision.

She has been in talks with the commander-in-chief for quite a while about national reconciliation. The two are now the most important figures in the NDSC. Its very much in the national interest that they should get along, said political commentator U Than Soe Naing.

He said the lack of detail on the NDSC, however, was one of the major weaknesses of the 2008 constitution.

The constitution does not stipulate the councils rights: what it can do and what it cannot do. Rivalry between the two groups will not bode well for the country.

Last December, with the results of the election already known, parliament attempted a codification of the status of the council, and a draft bill was published in the state-run media. The text encountered widespread criticism for seemingly strengthening the position of the military and granting continued military participation in the exercise by civilians of executive management. It was never enacted.

The Tagaung Institute, a civil society organisation, has published six recommendations for civil-military engagement in the democratic transition.

The NDSCs rights and responsibilities should be clearly and precisely defined, it said.

The institute further recommended that, in the interests of political legitimacy, transparency and confidence-building, the strategies and policies of the NDSC should be drafted and submitted to parliament for approval, promoting the role of civilian security specialists, organisations and the media.

New legislation should strengthen civilian control over the military, an important democratic norm, and a new model of civil-military relations should be developed.

In joining the council, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi will have already made plans for her party. She will also lend more power to the council by joining it, said analyst U Yan Myo Thein.

However, he said, cooperation takes two, and Tatmadaw has to demonstrate its commitment as well.
Two men close to purged Union Solidarity and Development Party leader Thura U Shwe Mann have been nominated to serve on the Union Election Commission.





A total of five nominees  four members and the chair of the commission  were put forward by incoming President U Htin Kyaw on March 24.

The outgoing Union Election Commission was headed by a close friend of President U Thein Sein and a founder of the USDP, U Tin Aye. The election body was often criticised for its lack of independence from the ruling party.

President-elect U Htin Kyaw proposed U Hla Thein as chair of the commission, while U Aung Myint, U Soe Ral, U Tun Khin and U Hla Tint were selected as members. Three of the nominees are legal experts retired from the Attorney Generals Office.

U Hla Thein, a retired rector of Meiktila University in Mandalay, has been put forward as chair of the next UEC. He currently heads the Meiktila District Election Commission.

U Aung Myint and U Soe Ral are both members of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Legal Affairs and Special Cases Assessment Commission headed by Thura U Shwe Mann and known to be close to him. U Aung Myint was on the same commission under the outgoing government.

U Soe Ral is a former USDP MP who was assigned to the Rule of Law Committee formed in 2012 and headed by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

He has been familiar with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi since then. I think he is nominated for the UEC as a trustworthy Kayah person because they [the NLD] know him, said former Pyithu Hluttaw representative U Thein Tun Oo, who served in the bill committee with him.





Though U Aung Myint is not an MP, he was nominated because of a recommendation made by Thura U Shwe Mann, U Thein Tun Oo said.

Thura U Shwe Mann and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi have been colleagues since Thura U Shwe Mann served as Speaker of the parliament. Therefore, it would be right if we say they cooperate rather than saying that Thura U Shwe Mann is influencing the parliament, he said.

Though some within the NLD may object to the assignment of former and current USDP members to the commission, parliament will decide, said U Win Than, a member of the current Legal Affairs and Special Cases Assessment Commission and a former USDP MP.

U Win Htein, an NLD spokesperson, said that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had repeatedly pledged to include other parties, experts and ethnic representatives in the government and that comments about Thura U Shwe Mann influencing her decisions was just slander.

The NLD has appointed various USDP representatives to parliamentary committees and two USDP central executive committee members, U Thein Shwe and Thura U Aung Ko, have been given cabinet posts.

MPs can submit objections to parliament today but, because of the NLDs majority in the parliament, it is expected the members and the chair will be approved.

Additional reporting by Ei Ei Toe Lwin, translation by Thiri Min Htun
Last week, parliament unanimously approved the new cabinet, downsized from 36 portfolios to 21 under the new administration. The Myanmar Times spoke to five ministers who will take up their new appointments on April 1.





U Kyaw Win, Pyithu Hluttaw MP for Dagon Seikkan township, minister for planning and finance

What are your plans for the ministry?

Both good management and good administration are required. Good administration by itself is not enough. I will review the current management to identify strengths and weaknesses, and then I will select the best people for each position.

How do you see your relations with the ministry staff?

Civil servants are aware that they are paid by the people to work for the people. A good civil service is one in which the staff perform their duties in that spirit. However, under the outgoing government, some civil servants have been known to take bribes. I intend that civil servants should earn the peoples trust.

Though many civil servants are qualified and motivated, they may not be in a position to do their best work. If I find that someone is not qualified for the position they hold, I will replace them with someone that is qualified.

But you have admitted passing yourself off as a PhD from a university that does not exist. You were also a junior official in the department you have now been placed in charge of. How do you expect to have any authority?





In fact, a person can control his or her value if it is respected by others. If his or her quality is not recognised, he or she will generate a similar reaction. Not just a minister, but also a leader should know about the people he or she leads. A leader needs to try to know what is their feeling and what is their dream. Then they should try to show their ability. Some civil servants might not want to do what I ask them to do. Some have taken bribes. So we need to make them understand that the country will be developed when we all work together in the interest of the country. I will open a way for them.

U Than Myint, Pyithu Hluttaw MP for Hlaing Tharyar township, minister for commerce

How will you handle the ministry?

Since the number of ministries has been reduced, each ministry will have an increased workload. This will require a team effort, with considerable cooperation among departments and the exercise of great skill. I believe the staff will do their best to live up to these requirements and make the necessary effort. They will have to.

At the same time, bureaucrats will have not only to abide by the law, the rules and regulations, but also to behave in an ethical manner. We expect great things of our staff, and training will be provided as appropriate.

How flexible must you be?

I want to create an environment of transparency in which people will do their best work. I anticipate no serious difficulty in establishing that cooperative and supportive environment. Encouraging the staff to do their best is also the best way of reducing corruption and increasing cooperation.

Who's Who: Meet Myanmar's new cabinet ministers

U Win Myat Aye, Amyotha Hluttaw representative for Bago Region constituency 4, minister for relief and resettlement

What are your plans?

The reduction of the number of ministries already undertaken is the first step toward efficiency and effectiveness. Yet, the government cannot work alone. We need public engagement. I am taking over a ministry with a good record of achievement. But we have to improve our disaster preparation capability, particularly in the areas most prone to natural disasters. I do expect an increase in staff members accordingly.

Do you see any difficulties in dealing with staff used to the outgoing government?

I expect the staff to continue to work as they did before, under the law, under the leadership of a new minister and in the spirit of democratic principles. The staff will be aware of what the public expects of them. Our watchword will be service to the people.

U Thant Zin Maung, Pyithu Hluttaw MP for Monywa township, minister for transportation and communication

How will you manage the ministry?

I have an open mind, but I will not tolerate corruption. I joined the NLD to bring about development in the country, and will make every effort to do so.

How will staff respond?

I expect everybody to work together in the spirit of unity. That is the way to success. It wont necessarily be easy, but I know the permanent secretary, the director and deputy directors and most of the staff. I think I can persuade them and gain their confidence.

U Thein Swe, USDP Pyithu Hluttaw MP for Ann township, Rakhine State, minister for labour, immigration and population

As a member of the outgoing government, how much credibility will you have serving the incoming government?

Our party has a policy of cooperating in the best interests of the country. I see no problem. Everyone is going to be working hard together to improve the country, as President U Thein Sein and other USDP members have said.

Were you appointed on the recommendation of Thura U Shwe Mann?

Well, that helped. I also chaired a hluttaw committee, so Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other MPs knew of my performance. The NLD said they would not occupy all the ministerial seats, but would promote national reconciliation.

What are your plans?

The department will continue to administer the laws governing labour affairs. Immigration is also an important department. The department has a saying: The country wont disappear due to earth fissures swallowing locals, but due to race gobbling up natives.

What does that mean?

I cant do much with this.

translation by Thiri Min Htun, Kyawt Darly Lin and San Lay
Criticism of the National League for Democracy is mounting over its lack of transparency surrounding the ministerial selection process, even though all were approved by parliament without complaints.





The NLD vetting process has come under fire, particularly after it was reported that two nominees held fake university degrees. Critics on social media had a field day.

The selection of former USDP MP Thura U Aung Ko, who lost his seat last year, for Religion and Culture has also been criticised.

But some of the appointments may have not been the NLD leaders first choice. A political source, who asked not to be named, said the NLD discussed asking some serving USDP ministers to stay on, but they all declined.

The reason for declining was partly loyalty to U Thein Sein and partly trepidation about whether they really wanted to work for the new government, the source said.

A number of people within the cabinet are seriously loyal to U Thein Sein and thought he was doing a great job and that they were part of something  a transformation. Its difficult to imagine them shifting allegiance to a new person, he added.

Who's Who: Inside Myanmar's new cabinet

Commentators and the international community have also questioned why Daw Aung San Suu Kyi decided she should run four ministries  foreign affairs, education, energy and the Presidents Office.

U Tun Tun Hein, a spokesperson for the NLD, said that the nominations were made by five of the partys top leaders, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.





I dont think we have to explain ourselves every time complaints come up. There will always be people who hold different opinions, he said.

The NLD has announced that it is checking the degrees of U Kyaw Win (Planning and Finance) and U Than Myint (Commerce).

U Kyaw Win admitted to The Myanmar Times last week that the MA and doctorate from Brooklyn Park University listed on his official party profile were fake.

U Zaw Myint Maung, one of the five party officials involved in the selection process, said the two ministers were honest and had not deceived anyone about their educational backgrounds. They have no guilt and that is all I want to say, he said.

However questions are being raised in party circles about why the ministers were chosen by such a narrow circle, apparently without consulting relevant party committees.

U Han Tha Myint, member of the NLD economic committee, said his group did not participate in the selection process.

But he also said the two ministers with supposedly fake degrees had not tried to deceive the public. Other qualities may be more important than holding a doctorate, such as performance and his loyalty, he added.

Expert opinions: Myanmars next government

A letter of complaint about the appointment of Thura U Aung Ko came from the NLD party office in his constituency, Kanpetlet township in Chin State.

U San Khin, NLD MP for Kanpetlet township who defeated Thura U Aung Ko, told The Myanmar Times that he reported the issue to the party central executive committee on March 22, but that he was unable to argue against the majority.

U Yan Myo Thein, a political analyst, criticised the NLDs lack of information about the ministers background. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other NLD leaders should look for ability and qualifications, rather than appointing those close to them, he said.

Change will not occur if they cannot find people who are truly qualified and skilled for government positions, he said.

U Sithu Aung Myint, a columnist, said that NLD deserved criticism for the vetting process. They [the media] should complain about what [the NLD] have done rather than who they have chosen, he said.

Additional reporting by Ei Ei Toe Lwin and Aye Thidar Kyaw
On April 1, incoming Minister for Health Dr Myint Htwe stands for the difficult task of reforming a wing of the government notorious for its militarisation, while also handling the largest budget assigned to the health sector in years.





In the 2016-17 national budget  which was approved by the outgoing government for use by the incoming National League for Democracy-led administrative  K757 billion was slated for the health sector. While still among the lowest dedicated health allowances in the region, the allocation represents a significant rise from previous years when it received less than 1 percent of the national spending.

Questions remain however over how much influence incoming minister Dr Myint Htwe will be able to exert over the sector in his second stint as a bureaucrat.

Senior health officials told The Myanmar Times before the minister appointment that they were already preparing to implement plans for the coming year. The ministry had jettisoned a request from the NLD to view its plans.

Last year, medical staff launched a black ribbon campaign to protest against the large number of former military officers they said had been parachuted into the health ministry without proper qualifications or experience.

But Dr Myint Htwe is no stranger to the ministry, where he worked for 17 years until 1994. During his break from civil service in Myanmar, the father-of-two worked as a regional adviser and program director for the World Health Organization until his retirement in 2010.

According to his CV, he studied at Institute of Medicine 1 and attained a masters in public health from the Institute of Public Health at the University of the Philippines as well as a doctorate in public health from Johns Hopkins University in the US.

Dr Myint Htwe was one of the public health experts involved in drafting the controversial population control law sponsored by nationalist Buddhist organisations. The law gives local authorities the power to control birth rates in their area and was slammed by local womens organisations and international human rights groups who said it would infringe on reproductive rights and mainly be used to target ethnic minorities.





The law was one of four bills written by the Committee for the Protection of Race and Religion, better known by its Myanmar-language acronym Ma Ba Tha. The controversial race and religon package was later re-drafted by a 12-member commission set up by the president that included representatives of the Ministry of Immigration and Population, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the presidents legal advisory team, and other government bodies.

Dr Myint Htwe was not willing to comment on his plans for the ministry before giving the first address in his new capacity to the ministrys staff and international organisations.

I want to speak with my family first, he said, referring to the ministrys staff.

In a conversation with The Myanmar Times earlier this month, Dr Kyaw Zwe, an NLD CEC member, said that the party would not be able to institute quick fixes like free healthcare for all but would work on using the limited funds to support healthcare for impoverished families.
Health officials have placed Yangon Region on high alert as a deadly meningitis outbreak appears to have spread from Mandalay.





The Department of Public Health is monitoring all 44 townships following the death on March 18 of an 8-year-old girl in South Dagon township. Another child, reportedly her brother, died on March 14, according to Yankin Hospital.

On March 19 the hospital admitted about 20 children who presented symptoms of the bacterial infection, though two were released on March 21 when they tested negative for meningitis.

The remaining children are being kept in isolation to avoid infecting others, said U Bo Gyi, head of ward of the Yangon City Development Committee staff house, South Dagon township.

Of the sister and brother, he added, She died of meningitis, but the cause of death of the boy is not clear.

Were taking precautions by improving hygiene, cleaning out ditches and ensuring rubbish is promptly disposed of. Health staff are monitoring conditions in the ward and are dispensing antibiotics, he said.

A meningococcal meningitis outbreak was first reported on March 5 in six villages of Tharsi township, Mandalay Region. Four children were killed by the infection by March 9.





Tests of blood samples taken from infected children revealed that the illnesses was caused by the Neisseria meningitidis group B bacteria, one of six serotypes that can cause an outbreak. The 8-year-old in South Dagon tested positive for the same serotype.

Government-owned media reported on March 25 that another four children had died of the disease in Mandalay. An additional child suspected of having the infection was placed in isolated care in Patheingyi township.

Meningococcal meningitis is transmitted person-to-person via mucous, particularly through coughing and sneezing, or sharing eating or drinking utensils.

The illness is often severe and attacks the lining around the brain and spinal cord. According to the World Health Organization, the most common symptoms, which can appear suddenly, are a stiff neck, high fever, sensitivity to light, confusion, headaches, a rash and vomiting. Without immediate antibiotic treatment, the disease is fatal in close to 50 percent of cases. About 20 percent of infected people do not show symptoms but can act as carriers within the community, according to the Department of Public Health.

Even with early antibiotic treatment, 5-10pc of cases are fatal, typically within 24 to 48 hours after symptoms appear. Between 10pc and 20pc of survivors suffer from brain damage, hearing loss or a learning disability.

On March 23, Yangon Region public health chief Dr Win Lwin told The Myanmar Times that all townships in the region are on alert for further incident of the infection. The departments and organisations concerned are raising awareness and engaged in disease monitoring, he said. We are advising on preventive measures, including improving hygiene, especially in the vicinity of children and old people. Health authorities should be informed of any patient showing symptoms. He suggested that people should avoid crowds and wear face masks.

Outbreaks of the vaccine-preventable disease have occurred seasonally in Myanmar since 1992.

A spokesperson for the Department of Public Health said, Meningitis occurs in the hot season, especially in dusty conditions. It is not a new threat, but more attention is now being paid.

East Dagon township resident Daw Win Nandar Myint said, Im worried by this news, like any other parent. My daughter is one year old. Were keeping the house particularly clean.

Those presenting with symptom of meningitis are advised to seek immediate medical assistance.
On a recent Tuesday, I turned up, unannounced, at the National Archives building in Nay Pyi Taw. I confess I was not sure what reception my Australian National University collaborator, Andrew Walker, and I would receive.





There was a time, not so long ago, when any walk-ins at a government facility would struggle to get a positive reception. The barriers to entry were high. Appropriate paperwork was essential.

Andrew and I had nothing: just our business cards and a modest ambition to learn more about one of the countrys far-flung corners during an obscure period of Myanmar history. We presented these credentials to the first wave of friendly staff and were asked to wait while they reverted to higher authority.

Within minutes, we were being shepherded through to the appropriate reading room, where the archival database  computerised and easy to navigate  was put at our disposal. Andrew, who was the driving force behind this expedition, paid a small fee and got himself registered as a user of the archives, valid for both Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon.

Before we knew it he was loaded up with important research material and encouraged to continue his hunt for obscure files when we returned to Yangon. In the meantime, the archive staff went out of their way to copy a big batch of records that we picked up a day later.

The archive workers were clearly proud of their facilities in Nay Pyi Taw and the ease with which they could attend to our requests. For researchers, both Myanmar and foreign, this level of access and openness will prove a tremendous advantage in the years to come.

Archives store government records, and so it is not as though there are no sensitivities involved. Anybody who has spent time trawling through archival material appreciates that official business has a habit of reverberating down the generations.





Archival sources are particularly valuable to historians but can also provide great insight for anthropologists, economists, geographers, political scientists, sociologists and more. The search can be painstaking, but it often pays serious dividends. Where digitalisation has occurred, then even the hard work of scouting for sources is greatly simplified.

Other aspects of doing research in Myanmar are also getting much more straightforward. Under the government of President U Thein Sein, it was usually possible to get meetings with officials, big and small. Old hesitations about sitting down to chat with foreign researchers had faded, leaving behind a natural curiosity about the types of questions they would want to ask.

In the early years of the U Thein Sein period I recall being unexpectedly seated next to a retired senior army officer. As we got talking about the life of an academic focused on Myanmar society, he challenged me to ask the questions that the scholarly community struggles to answer.

What followed was an entertaining hour when I put to him some of the big intrigues of the past century. While he admitted he did not know the answers to all the questions, he was genuinely curious about the blind spots in academic knowledge. It was probably one of my most useful research sessions. Ever.

It was also a product of an auspicious confluence of experience, collegiality and access.

Happily, there are now more consistent opportunities for foreign researchers to benefit from these kinds of interactions. Yangon is filling up with a rising generation of analysts and academics eager to get their heads around the opportunities for serious enquiry.

Some are focused on immediate concerns: peace processes, ethnic conflicts, political reform, legal impunity, economic development. Others are committed to studying historical, religious, cultural and social issues. Taken together they represent an unprecedented research engagement with Myanmar affairs. The best of them are building strong new collaborations with Myanmar colleagues.

It helps that many are able to spend long periods in the country; some even have official research permission. One consequence of this better access is that increasing numbers of scholars are developing field sites outside Myanmars big cities. Major provincial towns are more accessible than ever for researchers looking to get a different perspective on Myanmar life.

Before long I anticipate that we will see researchers secure permission for long-term, village-level studies of the type that has been so common elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Until now, most of the research of a substantial variety in rural Myanmar has been undertaken either by Myanmar or Japanese scholars.

We are also seeing a new wave of heavy investment in the data gathering that will support long-term economic and political planning. The 2014 census helps in this regard. It has been followed by other surveys that have sought to capture new information about how Myanmar is changing.

It is the nature of academic debate that those who are involved in all of this research activity will come to different conclusions. That is healthy and productive. With mutual respect for different research methods, there should be plenty of opportunities to keep learning from each other.

 New Mandala

Nicholas Farrelly is director of the Myanmar Research Centre at the Australian National University. His column appears in The Myanmar Times each Monday.
If you have watched plays of Uncle Ebo Whyte, you most likely are in a quandary like me  which one is the best show ever? Having written close to a dozen stories on his plays, I have run out of adjectives to describe the latest awesome piece of craft laden with enough truism about Ghanaians and our susceptibility to corruption.

In One Million Pounds, Uncle Ebo distilled and condensed a nation and a continents biggest problem  corruption  into two hours of drama with characteristic flair and dexterity.

Obviously modeled on the historic participation in this years edition of X Factor UK byGhanaian duo Reggie N Bollie, One Million Pounds exposes with exacting clarity the tendency to sell oneself cheap and be bought for a pittance.

Three young men and lady from Ghana are participating in a music reality show in the UK and are performing to the admiration of many.

Their leader is befriending the only lady amongst them whose father, by the way, is their manager.

Just before the final, organizers of the show decide that it would hurt the brand of the show if the Africans should win so the show host wants to buy them out of the finale.

He budgets one million Pounds for this but when the manager of the musicians appears before him, he bargains for less  he takes 500,000 Pounds.

This is where it gets interesting, in fact frustratingly annoying. After receiving the half a million pounds to take his artistes out of the finale, he bundles 10,000 Pounds each into four envelopes and hands them to the musicians and demands praise for his ingenuity.

Two of the artistes grabbed the money with alacrity, imagining what 10,000 Pounds at an exchange rate of 5.6 cedis can do for their lives.

The leader of the group fought a lost battle to gain the support of his colleagues for them to reject the money. When they took a vote on the issue, only his girlfriend stood by him, the other two followed the money.

As a face-saving measure, their manager suggests that upon arriving at Kotoka, they should issue a false statement saying they abandoned the finals in solidarity with the leader who had to be by his mother in hospital back in Ghana.

The artistes who took the 10,000 Pounds realized they had been cheated when robbers attacked and took away all the money.

I have seen many Uncle Ebo plays but One Million Pounds is in a class of its own.

No wonder, therefore, that the ladies watching the play shouted excitedly as though they were paid to shout.

Please grab a ticket for only 80 Ghana cedis at Joy FMs Front Desk, Airtel shops, Baatsona Total, etc. and you will never regret you did. It shows this holiday and next weekend at 4 and 8pm daily.
Acting National Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay has said the recent behavior of government functionaries is aimed at inciting the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS)  the Jihadist group in Iraq to harm Ghanaians.

He said he expected members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to cherish the peace the country is enjoy arguing they have demonstrated that they are not interested.

I wish they want peace but definitely that is not what they want. It is obvious they have other agenda [to] create destabilisation in the system in this country", he said.

Mr Blay said the least Ghanaians expect from government especially this Easter festive season is hate and violent discussions.

He described the behaviour of government functionaries as a desperate attempt to distract Ghanaians from the economic challenges the country is facing.

Leadership of the NPP has been criticized following the revelation that it invited the three South African ex-cops who are currently in the custody of the Bureau of National Investigation (BNI).

The men, Major Ahmed Shaik Hazis (Rtd.) 54, WO/Denver Dwayhe Naidu (Rtd.) 39, and Captain Mlungiseleli Jokani (Rtd.) 45 were picked up at the El Capitano Hotel at Agona Duakwa Sunday, March 20 by BNI officials in the Agona East of the Central region.

A BNI document sent to JOYNEWS said: The trio, all ex-police officers were engaged in training fifteen young men in various military drills, including unarmed combat, weapon handling, VIP protection techniques and rapid response maneuvers.

Also, Captain (rtd) Edmund Koda, head of security for the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo was re-arrested Friday, March 25 two days after he was released by the BNI without a charge.

However, Mr Blay said It is obvious they [government officials] have other agenda to create instability in the country which he says is not in Ghana's interest.

What they are engaging in doing is to create crisis even though they are in power, he said.

He encouraged Ghanaians to move beyond the artificial security crisis government is creating to look at the real problems in the economy.

Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Austin Brako-Powers | Email: [email protected]
A high court has issued a warrant for the arrest of water Resources Minister, Kwaku Agyemang-Mensah, for failing to come before the court many times.

Justice Patrick Baayeh has instructed the Inspector General of Police, John Kudalor, to take the Minister into custody and cause him to appear in court on April 15.

The high court in Ho, the Volta Region capital, wants the Minister to respond to a suit against him by two private citizens, Zikpuitor Fenu Benjamin Atsu and Marshall Koblah Fenu.

The plaintiffs say the Minister and two others  the Director of the Water Resources Ministry, Alhaji Ziblim Yakubu and Director of Hydrological Services, Mr Owusu Ansah  acting as supervisors of the Ada Sea Defence Project failed to prevent their land and property from destruction.

Zikpuitor Fenu Benjamin Atsu and Marshall Koblah Fenu also hold that the contractor, Dredging International Company from Netherlands, has also caused irreparable damage to the environment.

The Minister is said to have failed to appear in court for five times.

The sea defence project will reclaim about 14 km of coastal bed lost along the Atlantic Ocean in the Ada East District in the Greater Accra Region.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Lawyer for arrested head of security for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer has threatened to go court to challenge the imprisonment of his client.

Nana Asante Bediatuo says Captain (rtd) Edmund Kodas detention by the Bureau of National Investigation (BNI) is in breach of the law.

His threat follows the re-arrest of Capt Koda who has been implicated in the case involving three former South African ex-police officers who the BNI says had been training the private security personnel of the NPP flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo.

Ahmed Shaik Hazis, Denver Dwayhe Naidu and Mlungiseleli Jokani were picked up at the El Capitano Hotel at Agona Duakwa last Sunday, March 20 by BNI officials in the Agona East of the Central region for "training fifteen young men in various military drills, including unarmed combat, weapon handling, VIP protection techniques and rapid response maneuvers.

The BNI said given the heightened fears for terror attacks in the country the action of the three South African nationals raises national security issues. They were charged with conspiracy to commit crime and unlawful training.

Nana Asante Bediatuo told Accra-based Citi FM Sunday that he will be forced to resort to the law court to force the BNI to produce his client.

Capt Koda is alleged to have invited the three South Africans who have since been granted bail but are also currently in the custody of the BNI.

He was reportedly charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and unlawful training but granted bail on Wednesday after the BNI took his statement.

Security operatives also allegedly visited his residence at Weija last week, to carry out a search of the premises.

The state subsequently dropped the charges against him on Thursday but it is thus unclear why he is still in BNI custody after his apparent release.
The Chairman for Finance Commitee in Parliament, James Klutsey Avedzi, has disclosed that government has secured a loan for the design, construction and furnishing of a new hospital in Wheta in Ketu North District.

James K Avedzi, who is also MP for Ketu North disclosed this at the annual the 10th Annual Rice Festival of the chiefs and people of Dekpor in the Ketu North District of the Volta Region.

The project when completed will also bring employment to the youths of the district and other region is going to be constructed and thereby reducing unemployment in the district.

According to the James Avedzi, government has and will continue to bring developmental projects to the people which they rightly deserve.

He urged the youth to be hard working and also help in promoting peace in the country.

The MP also disclosed that a 12-unit classroom block for the Wheta SHS and Wovenu SHS to improve quality in education will soon be constructed.

The MP said five district hospitals and a polyclinic have been earmarked for construction within 36 months at a cost of 89.9 million Euros.

The new district hospital is among five other health facilities to be constructed across the country through funding from the Raiffesen Bank International AG of Austria.

The District Chief Executive, Kofi Lawson in an interview with myjoyonline.com said the chiefs and elders of Wheta have been consulted and documents are being prepared for the formal acquisition of the proposed site for the hospital.

He said government is committed to making sure that the health needs of the people are well provided with best facilities.

Kofi Lawson used the opportunity to advice the chiefs to be the pivot of round which peace and unity must revolve in order for development as they installed a development chief.

He also advised politicians not to deceive the youth to cause violence especially as the general elections draws close.
Eleven senior officials from the National Coordinating Committee on Preventing and Combatting Illegal Migration (NCCPIM) have undertook a study visit organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM Egypt) to Italy on best practices in the protection of vulnerable migrants, with particular emphasis on unaccompanied migrant children.

The study visit supports NCCPIM to operationalize Egypt's law on Combatting Illegal Migration and Migrant Smuggling which was recently approved by the Egyptian Council of Ministers and revised by the State Council, and is currently under review by the Egyptian Parliament. IOM Egypt provided technical support to NCCPIM for the development of the Law.

The study visit will feed into the development process of NCCPIM's 2016-2018 National Strategy on Combating Illegal Migration, especially regarding the establishment and operationalization of a national referral mechanism for unaccompanied migrant children, highlighted Ambassador Naela Gabr, chairperson of NCCPIM.

The experience gained from this study visit will help inform the strategy's priorities, which in turn will ensure that no migrant is left behind; and particularly every child at risk of, and or engaged in, illegal/irregular migration is catered for in accordance to the Egyptian law, emphasized IOM Egypt Head of Office Amr Taha.

IOM and NCCPIM have developed a constructive relationship since the Committee's establishment by Prime Ministerial Decree in 2014. NCCPIM is the Egyptian government focal point for policies and efforts in the field of preventing and combating irregular migration. The Committee comprises 20 different ministries and national entities, in addition to the National Council on Human Rights, and the one on Childhood and Motherhood.
Help is yet to come to residents of Zabzugu in the Northern Region, a week after a heavy downpour rendered them homeless.

The over 200 residents now live in a deplorable condition hoping the National Disaster Management Organisation will come to their aid.

The rain has also affected education with the roof of some of the schools ripped off.

The District Chief Executive of Zabzugu, Issifu Alidu Laa-Bandow, is appealing for help from non-governmental organizations as they await response from NADMO.

"The assembly is constrained. Though we have resources, if you look at the extent of damage it will be difficult for the Assembly alone to be able to shoulder this.

"So we are calling on NGOs and any other organisation to come in," he told Joy News.

He said his outfit is still liaising with the NADMO in region to bring help to the residents.

"We are cooperating with NADMO and the NADMO officer has reported the incident to Tamale. The regional officer has given indication from Monday to Wednesday they will respond.

"The Assembly is also waiting for them. As and when they come we are prepared to move down to get support to our people so that they get back to their various houses so that life will continue as it used to be [before the rain]," he said.
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28.03.2016 LISTEN

According to the NDC, Akuffo-Addo is a war monger. He therefore does not deserve to be president. As expected, Akuffo-Addo has rejected that assertion.

We all have to consider the issue carefully because the President of the land wields so much power. As such, we cannot give it to anyone at all. I therefore thought about the issue and made the following observations.

1. Long period in public office/Politics

Akuffo-Addo is 72 years and has served in public office for a longer period than John Dramani Mahama. He (Akuffo-Addo) was part of the struggle for Ghana to return to multi-party democracy in 1992 and has been active in public service/politics to date.

As the saying goes, suban te s nyinsn, meaning character is like pregnancy, it cannot be hidden. Therefore, any violent nature of Akuffo-Addo would have shown over that period. But I am yet to hear of any act(s) of violence instigated/sanctioned by Akuffo-Addo over that period. He has rather been a champion for the rule of law in Ghana.

There is no place for violence at a place where there is rule of law. So for me, the evidence does not support the assertion that he is a violent person.

2. Integrity and Incorruptibility

Contrary to what his opponents would have us believe, In spite of the numerous years that he has served in public/private office, the integrity and incorruptibility of Akuffo-Addo appears to be without question. And he has made audacious statements about his incorruptibility on several occasions.

He has said on many occasions that: I am not corrupt. Recently, following the Anas expose of the corruption in the judiciary service, he also said publicly that he did not give or receive bribe when he practised as a lawyer.

There are very few individuals in our society (especially politicians) who will be able to make such claims publicly.

His claims have not been refuted and the fact that his main opponents in government (NDC) do not have corruption charge against him makes me to believe him.

3. Competence

Governance is a serious business which requires competent people to run affairs. Akuffo-Addos appointment of Bawumiah and decision to keep him as his running mate for three general elections gives indication that he would like the nation to be run by a competent team. His private legal firm (Akuffo-Addo, Prempeh & Co) is one of the most respected in Ghana. And it has trained several prominent lawyers in the country. Competence must surely be one of the factors which helped the firm to succeed. I expect he would apply the same principle in running the affairs of Ghana.

On the contrary, John Mahama focused and continues to focus more on politics rather than competence in his appointments. His appointment of the the likes of Ofosu Kwakye and Fiifi Kwetey attests to this fact. It should therefore not come as a surprise to you that things are on the decline. Its just cause and effect.

4. Vision and legacy

John Mahama became President as a result of the untimely passing of Atta Mills. He had not plan to be president and therefore did not have a vision for Ghana. Just imagine this. You sleep one night and wake the next morning and you are made the CEO of where you are working. Would it be honourable for you? Yes of course! But would you be effective/efficient? Not likely!! Thats John Mahama for you.

On the contrary, Akuffo-Addo has been working to become president for over two decades now. At age 72, his focus will be on leaving legacy that he/his children can be proud of. One of the key things he has been trumpeting to do is to build human capital hence the free education policy. This is because (according to him), you need good human capital to make all industries (from farming to Banking) thrive well.

Conclusion:

If I were Mahama or any of his Ministers enjoying the benefits of corruption with impunity over the past 7 years, I would be afraid of Akuffo-Addos presidency. Why? I believe he would lawfully (and successfully) prosecute corrupt officials. Will that help Ghana? Yes of course!! Look at Nigeria.

NDC is only sowing the seed of fear about Akuffo-Addos presidency because of their selfish interest  fear of prosecution. Think of it! Society will become more insecure (unsafe) if: (i) the high unemployment continues, (ii) cost of living continues to rise and (iii) government officials continue to steal with impunity.

Mahamas leadership has been terrible and poses a big security threat. He MUST and WILL go in this years election!!

Ghana needs a competent, peaceful, visionary and incorruptible leadership. Ghana will find this in the persons of Akuffo-Addo/Bawumiah!!

Source: Kwabena Boateng ([email protected])
28.03.2016 LISTEN

Kumawuhemaa is very notorious for her insolence, pugilistic tendencies and avidness for insulting people regardless of their age and status. She tried it on me sometime in the year 2005 or there about but she failed miserably. I replied her on the phone in the language that she speaks and understands very well even though it is said; two wrongs dont make a right.

Why should I let her go scot free if she has made it her habit to insult, or to disrespect people? If she chooses to demean herself and her family, by running her mouth wallowing in a bubbling pool of insults, I have to help her feel the pain of her absurd insults hence talking back to her as just said. She is morally, professionally and traditionally not fit to be Kumawuhemaa. She is very disgusting in her manners.

She has committed the following unbefitting acts hence this write-up of mine today, Sunday 27th March 2016. There is a certain man (name withheld) in Kumawu. He seems to many people a drunkard. He goes round peoples homes hewing or hacking firewood into smaller pieces from bigger pieces  ("odwidwa egya" in Twi), for a living. This is a decent job. It is better than taking up arms to raid peoples homes or become highwaymen as it is becoming the order of the day in Ghana nowadays under the most incompetent, corrupt and clueless administration by President Mahama and his NDC party and government.

This man used to go to Kumawuhemaa Nana Abenaa Serwaah Amposahs house to perform the same duties (hacking firewood) for her. The queen would feed him and at times pay him or ask him to do it on credit to her. One day when he went to collect the money owed him by the queen, as it had accumulated over a period of time, the queen angrily asked him, "You, what do you need the money for, tell me! You have neither a wife nor children, what do you need the money for after all? Who are you going to give the money to?"

The man answered back saying, "I am going to chew the money" ("me reko we sika no"), putting his five right hand fingers together and pointing them to his mouth.

Kumawuhemaa felt insulted at his cheeky reply to her. She slapped him, her usual pugilistic behaviour manifesting. She ordered another man (name withheld) present to bind him hand and foot with a rope. After he had been tightly tied as ordered, she put him in her block-fenced compound, in the scorching Sun. She ordered her to stare at the Sun and each time he closed his eyes, the queen would kick him hard with her foot. He was left in the middle of the compound for almost three hours subjected to that inhuman and degrading treatment.

The queen was the first person to be cheeky to the man and she got a cheeky answer. Why should she feel disrespected by the man? Has she forgotten that what goes around comes around? Has she forgotten the principle of action and reaction?

Going back to the sad story, as soon as the strongman bound him hand and foot, he escaped from the house thinking the queen would kill him (the victim) or mistreat the bound person until he became unconscious. He did not want to stay to be implicated in any future or perceived eventual harm or death to the supposed drunkard. However, as the truth is said to always out, in the end, the accomplice (the man who bound the drunkard) himself confided the crime to someone and it has travelled that far and wide to reach my desk. Truly, walls have ears and you cant shield crime from exposure forever.

Kumawuhemaa has gone a step too far. What she did constitutes a crime. It could have damaged the persons eyesight if it is not already damaged. In future, she should be mindful of those surrounding her. How would I know if her accomplice did not mention it to someone else? I shall in future reveal the persons identity if need be.

Again, Kumawuhemaa has been lying through her teeth to some people about the Kumawu chieftaincy dispute. She has been painting some people she perceives to be against her roguish stance on the case black to those prominent and rich people who are ready to listen to her lies and complete nonsense.

Once when she met a prominent person from Kumawu but who does not give a hoot about how Kumawuman goes, whether the people will die or not, whether the area will develop or not, she did as follows. She mentioned the names of two very rich people from Kumawuman who she perceives to be supportive of the Ananangyas/Odumases in the ongoing Kumawu chieftaincy saga. She said to the man, "Look at these two people, as extremely rich as they are, they still want to take chunks of Kumawuman lands free. They still want to take all Kumawumans money to add to their personal wealth but that is what I am fighting against. The people of Kumawuman are suffering but these rich people want to exploit them. If you were me, the custodian of the land and money for the collective welfare of the people, would you sit down for these two individuals to do that?" The person said no. The queen said that is exactly what I am doing, to prevent them from cheating the people.

She then produced some documents to show to the person. Ever since, she has won the support of that person through her blatant lies.

Let it be known to the whole world and whoever is interested in the ongoing Kumawu chieftaincy dispute that Kumawuhemaa is the one who has rather teemed up with some selfish and unlettered individuals to sabotage Kumawuman. For the satisfaction of her insatiable greed, utter stupidity and lack of foresight, she wants to allow Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, once her boyfriend, to come to steal the lands and money belonging to Kumawuman. She wants to allow Asantehene, thus, Kumasiman to control Kumawuman by twisting Kumawu history.

I have all the necessary documents, and continue to assemble further documents, to buttress my claim on the fact that Kumawuhemaa and her alleged puppet Kumawuhene Barima Sarfo Tweneboa Kodua are colluding with Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to selfishly exploit Kumawuman to the hilt.

I shall earnestly entreat Kumawuhemaa to tell nothing but the truth at all times and also, not to repeat what she did to the alleged drunkard that she cruelly punished, for that is a way too much if she indeed did as the accomplice has divulged to the public.

Finally, she has to ask her son, Dr Yaw Sarfo, to behave himself. He is alleged to have threatened to ask the police to stop Kumawuhene Barima Tweneboa Kodua from celebrating his sisters funeral on Saturday 2nd April 2016. I think he is only playing advance April fool since Diana will be laid in state on Friday, 1st April 2016. If he rather means to execute his nonsense according as alleged, then he has to bear in mind the principle of action and reaction. If he plays with fire, fire will consume him. This is the personal view of Mr No-Nonsense (The Writer).

Rockson Adofo
28.03.2016 LISTEN

Introduction

Undoubtedly, many people struggle with the issue of why God is omnipotent and omnibenevolent yet evil and suffering abound in the world. And indeed, many atheists use the issue as the basis to postulate that there is no God. For instance, the Greek Philosopher, Epicurus, who lived between 341 BC and 270 BC, summed up the atheists position in this way:

Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he able, but not willing? Then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?

Similarly, other philosophers like Immanuel Kant, David Hume and Thomas Aquinas all discussed the problem of evil in one way or the other.

However, it is not only secular people who have asked these sorts of questions. Several prophets of God also discussed the issue. For instance, in Habakkuk chapter 1, the prophet stated/asked the following:

O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you Violence! and you will not save? (verse 2)

Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise (verse 3).

So the law is paralysed, and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround (outnumber) the righteous; so justice goes forth perverted (verse 4).

You who are of purer eyes than to see evil and cannot look at wrong, why do you idly look at traitors and remain silent when the wicked swallows up the man more righteous than he? (verse 13)

Other prophets also stated/asked the following:

Psalm 55:9, Lord, confuse the wicked, confound their words, for I see violence and strife in the city.

Jeremiah 20:18, Why did I ever come out of the womb to see trouble and sorrow and to end my days in shame?

Job 21:7, "Why do the wicked live to reach old age and increase in power and wealth, too?

Ecclesiastes 8:14  the righteous [who] get what the wicked deserve, and the wicked [who] get what the righteous deserve.

Jeremiah 12:1, You are always righteous, LORD, when I bring a case before you. Yet I would speak with you about your justice: Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease?

It is clear from the above passages that all people including Gods prophets have struggled with the problem of evil. Therefore, why does God permit evil including natural disasters despite his absolute supremacy and unconditional love? Some of the answers to this question are discussed in the rest of this paper.

Human suffering came about because people abused the free will God has given us

Among all creatures it is only humans that God created us with free will. Without free will humans will be like animals that act largely by instinct or robots that are programmed to follow every instruction. But because God created us in his own image and after his likeness, he endowed us with the precious gift of free will to enable us to make decisions of both right and wrong, but this gift comes with responsibilities and consequences. Therefore, God has earnestly admonished us to make right choices but in most cases, we make the wrong choices. For instance, when God rejected the sacrifice of Cain and accepted that of Abel, Cain planned to kill his brother but God personally warned Cain that sin was crouching at his door and he must overcome it (Genesis 4:7). Cain did not listen to God but killed his brother. In this case, do we have to blame God for the consequences of the action of Cain? To go further back, all these started when Adam and Even disobeyed God and listened to the serpent (the devil) to eat the forbidden fruit. We have all suffered as the consequence of Adam and Eve disobeying God (and we continue to disobey God) and the effect of these is the introduction of two kinds of evil into the world: moral evil and natural evil as discussed below.

Moral evil and natural evil

Moral evil is the immorality, suffering and tragedy that come because of our selfish and abusive behaviors. Most of the worlds problems come from our sinful actions and/or inactions to each other. For example, many African government officials steal the resources of their countries why some citizens die out of hunger and preventable diseases. For instance, quite recently the officials of the Ghana government printed the image of the President on the commercial buses run by the state. It later emerged that the owner of the company that won the contract is affiliated to the government, and the contract price was inflated heavily. Meanwhile only some few months afterwards, one of these state buses had an accident and killed about 70 people. While speed is said to have been the main factor for the accident, it has also been suggested that the poor mechanical condition of the vehicle, particularly, the breaks also contributed to the fatal accident. In this regard, why do we blame God when someone decides to drive at an unsafe speed and also the government considers it important to spend huge money to print the portrait of the President at an inflated cost on the buses for political gains instead of using the money to maintain the buses? In fact, many of the accidents victims died because there were no mechanically sound ambulances available to transport the people to the nearby hospitals. So private vehicles had to transport them to the hospital and the hospital also did not have adequate equipment including beds and medicines to provide appropriate treatment to the accident victims. However, the ordinary citizens can also be held accountable for this sort of political failure because we vote for non performing government.

Also, some people drink and drive knowing very well that their ability to drive well will be impaired when intoxicated. Why do we then blame God when someone choses to do that and such a person causes an accident? The victims of such accidents may not necessarily be the reckless driver but some innocent person being at wrong place at the wrong time. Yet, the problem is not God but the one who exercises his free will recklessly. For instance, just around 20 February 2016, a Sudanese man was driving in Sydney with 4 other passengers in the car. The police stopped the car to conduct a random alcohol breath test. The driver failed to stop and sped off. The police then chased the driver and within few minutes the driver lost control of the car, hit a pole and three women in the car all died instantly. The irony though is that one of the women had 8 children while another had 4. It is believed that the drive was drunk and while he survived the crash, he suffered some injury but has since been charged for the offence. This is another example of how if we use our gift of free will inappropriately it can cause a tragedy. Of course, it will be unfair to blame God in a situation like this because God neither asked the driver to drink nor to speed off from the police, while it was also obvious that the police would chase him anyway. Furthermore, itt is suggested that the world produces enough food to adequately feed everyone, yet some people go hungry because of the greediness of others. While the majority of the world population live on less than $2 a day, the richest 1% of the world population are said to possess about half of the world resources enough to adequately feed everyone in the world.

The second kind of evil is natural evil which includes earthquakes and cyclones. However, the natural disasters occur as an indirect result of man disobeying God. The Bible indicates that God created the earth in a perfect state and God even used to interact directly with Adam and Eve. However, once Adam and Eve and their posterity sinned against God, God very much removed himself from us. The consequence of this is that nature began to revolt and the earth became cursed. Accordingly, Romans 8:22 states We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. In other words, the nature is yawning to be redeemed so that things will be set right. Therefore, so far as we continue to disobey God, disasters will strike and unfortunately, it is not only the most sinners that suffer the consequences of natural disasters. Any person being at the wrong place at the wrong time can suffer from natural disasters. This is why in Luke Luke 13:4, Jesus told his disciples that the 18 people that were killed when the tower in Siloam fell on them were not necessarily more sinful than all the people who live in Jerusalem. Jesus also told the disciples in John 16:13 that there will be troubles in the world. In fact, at a time Jesus himself and disciples experienced a violent storm while travelling on a boat and Jesus had to rebuke the storm to calm down the sea. This is why Ecclesiastes 9:11 states that time and chance can happen to everyone.

Satan controls the world

As indicated above, as a result of the sin of man, God has somehow withdrawn partially from the earth, and Satan has taken over the control of the world. 1 John 5:19 states that We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. John 12:31 also states plainly that Satan is the ruler of the world until the judgement time when Satan will be cast out. Against this background it is important to mention that most of the evils and catastrophic disasters that occur in the world are caused by the devil, which God does not necessarily intervene to prevent all of them. Thus, it is only at the second coming of Jesus that Satan and evil including death will be completely eradicated from the earth. Until then the devil in most cases can cause a lot of destructive activities in the world. At his trial by Pilate, Jesus stated plainly in John 18:36-37 that although he (Jesus) was a king, his kingdom is not of this world, otherwise his servants (angels) could have come to fight for him. However, the good news is that God will not leave humans to suffer forever. There will come a time that God will send his son to judge the world and at that time he will provide the most conducive living environment for the righteous. Thus, we only need to believe him and do the right thing and that the relief will come one day but until then Satan has profound influence in the world. This is why he told Jesus at his temptation that if Jesus would worship him, he would give the entire world to him. Of course, Jesus refused this fake offer as Jesus who had created the universe knew that at the appropriate time he will defeat Satan and set up his everlasting kingdom.

Did God foresee all these coming?

Sure, God knew that there was the possibility that the humans that he was creating would not obey him. However, as someone has put it, as humans we know that if we have children there is possibility that they will not listen to us but we still have children because of the enjoyment that we will have if they listen to us. So all that we have to do is to teach them the right way and it is up to them to take it or not. Similarly, God has taught us what to do in order to have eternal salvation because of it, he sent his own son to suffer a painful. Accordingly, Paul stated in Romans 8:18 that I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

Though suffering isnt good, God can use it to accomplish good.

Sometimes God allows suffering to occur in order to bring good later. Most people like to learn in the hard way. When everything is good we turn to forget about God. However, when we face difficulties many turn to God. For instance, Joseph went through terrible suffering when his brothers sold him into slavery, unfairly accused of a crime and falsely imprisoned but in all these he trusted God. In the end, he received a great honour and his family had to come and live with him in Egypt when a famine hit Israel. Joseph stated to his brothers in Genesis 50:20 that they intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. And if youre committed to God, He promises that He can and will take whatever pain youre experiencing and draw something good from it. God can also use suffering to better our character. This is why according to Hebrews 5:8, Although he [Jesus] was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered (Heb. 5:8). If Jesus had to suffer to learn, why would it be different for us humans that he created? This is why in Acts 7:54-8:2, Stephen (a disciple) was stoned to death and Act 2:12, James an apostle was killed by Herod. It is also believed that all the other apostles other than John died in a similar circumstance and even John was once held in a solitary confinement on Patmos Island, where he received the Book of Revelation from Jesus.

Conclusion

From the foregoing, it is clear that while God created the world in a perfect state, our disobedience to him has caused the world to lose its perfect state. As a result, there are two kinds of evils that have emergedthe moral and the natural evils. The moral evil is a direct result of our own actions or inactions and the natural evil is an indirect result of our actions. And God will only eradicate these evils when Jesus returns to judge the world, until that time we have to live with them and still trust that God is perfect, benevolent and almighty.
Since the establishment of al-Qaeda group by late Osama bin laden who lived from 19572011, his jihadist organization (under different names) has been taking responsibility for many high profile attacks including the September 11 attack on the twin tower trade center in New York on 9th September 2000. The operations of the jihadists have claimed lives of thousands of people injuring many others.

As the records show, the entire operations of the jihadists groups began on April 18, 1983 with the U.S Embassy Bombings in Beirut Lebanon by the Islamic Jihad Organization leaving 63 people dead with 120 injured. It continued with The 1983 Beirut barracks bombing by the Islamic Jihad Organization with 307 people dead and 75 injured. The operations of the jihadi groups have since continued throughout the world targeting individuals and groups in Europe America, Asia and Africa who are perceived as enemies of the cause of the jihadists. Although Nigeria has been under siege by the Boko Harram, the Nigerias version of the jihadists, the latest Attacks on beach resort of Cote diIvoire and the senseless killings of Christians and others by the jihadists in Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Kuwait, Iraq, Syria, Belgium and France is very frightening. All those nations that have lost their citizens through kidnappings and suicide bombing and beheading are not only counting their loses but are eagerly working tirelessly to apprehend the slippery and dangerous culprits at high costs. The world is yet to come to terms with a situation where innocent people enjoying themselves at beaches and on children playgrounds would be attached with bombs and killed in Pakistan and Abidjan, cote d-ivoire. Just consider the following accounts of atrocities by the Jihadists.

There is a tall list of killings beggining from the 80s, by the jihadists that defy the Islamic principles. Islam means peace and submission to the will of Allah. The prophet in his life lived in communities side by side with Christians and directed his followers to be tolerant and show love to their neighbors. This is why in Ghana and some peaceful nations we live in peace with Muslims and Christians exchanging gifts and pleasantries during festive occasions like Christmas and Easter Eid festivals after our Ramadan fast and Hajj Pilgrimage.

But what do we see in some nations of late. Intensified terror attacks by Islamist extremists to further a perceived Islamic religious or political cause have been occurring globally. The attackers have used such tactics as arson , vehicle rampage attacks, bomb threats , suicide attacks , bombings, spree shooting, stabbings , hijackings, kidnappings and beheadings .

Since the jihadists who have now graduated into creating for themselves a borderless Islamic state known as ISIS or ISIL are out to attack the world, governments and people of all nations of the world must wake up to the need to confront the Islamic jihadists . This can be achieved if all true Muslims and Christians would sink our differences and work together to fight the terrorists. In carrying out their activities they, the jihadists, do not discriminate between Muslims and Christians. They are on record to have bombed markets, churches, schools, aircraft, buses, trains and mosques killing both Muslims and Christians. Political opponents in parliaments and those working in communities must work together for a common cause to detect and rout out extremists among us. The National Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu and other Muslim leaders as well as Christian leaders are heard preaching against murders of all sorts which are not acceptable to God Almighty. The Ghana police service has began a program to deal with the situation by advising people to be alert in reporting suspicious characters found in our communities , in our churches, restaurants and shopping centers dotted in parts of our cities and towns . The Inspector General of Police in Ghana Mr. John Kudalor has also advised people not to pick strange objects found on the ground as those items could be bombs. The people of the world especially politicians must turn less against each other but concentrate on our common enemies, the jihadists. For that is the only way we can together push them away from us to be able to enjoy orderly socio economic development as all inclusive multi-religious multi ethnic people working for a common cause.

Executive Director

EANFOWORLD FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

P.O.BOX 17070AN 233244370345/23327483710 /233208844791

[email protected] /eanfoworld[email protected]
A five-day workshop to build the capacity of North African Member States of the AU, to end Child Marriage kicked off today in Cairo, Egypt.

The workshop organised by African Union Commission in conjunction with UNFPA, UNICEF, Inter-African Committee and the African Chid Policy Forum, under theme; "Ending Child Marriage and Other Harmful Traditional Practices in Africa - Mechanisms and Strategies" is being attended by experts from Regional Economic Communities, Member States and regional based Civil Society Organizations from the North African Region and is the 3rd in the series of Workshops, with similar workshops having taken place in Zambia and Nigeria for Eastern and Southern Africa; and West and Central Africa respectively.

The workshop will encompass theoretical presentations on the linkages of harmful traditional practices such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, the role of stakeholders and the effect of traditional and religious practices of child marriage on Africa's socio-economic development.

In her welcome remarks, the Egyptian Deputy Minister of Health and Population, Dr Maissa Shokri, expressed appreciation for the commitment shown by the African Union Member States towards the AU Campaign to End Child Marriage in Africa and outlined some of the lessons learned from the Egyptian experience on the eradication of FGM/C and the aspiration to declare Egypt as child marriage and FGM free. She referred to policy level actions adopted by the Egyptian government to provide a protective framework, including the 2008 child law, as well as the 2014 national strategy on child marriage, which revolved around the early detection of girls at risk of dropping out, formulating unified messages on the harmful effects of CM, targeting vulnerable families with a package of social services.

The Minister charged all workshop participants to maximize the opportunity in coming up mechanisms and strategies that will reflect the noble cause of ending child marriage and other harmful trditional practices within the broader agenda of safe-guarding the life of children, especially the girl child.

On behalf of the African Union Commission, Mr Nadir Fath Elalim, the Acting head of the AU Mission in Cairo, thanked the Government of the Arab Reupublic of Egypt for accepting to host the North Africa Regional Capacity Building Workshop, stating that 'the Government of Egypt offers evidence toward the commitment of African governments in ensuring that resolutions are instituted nationally as well as at a community level'.

In a contemporary culture, where social volatility is a common occurrence, child marriage has become a dominant subject for debate. There needs to be continuous efforts to discover new directions in eradicating the practice and enhancing the prospects grounded in gender and development. Mr Elalim affirmed that, Girls and women have the right to live free from violence and discrimination and achieve their potential and should not be forced into marriages or subkected to harmful practices that endager their health and wellbeing.

The UNFPA Deputy Representative for Egypt, Dr. Magdi Khaled, noting that the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region has led to increasing rates of child marriage, due a host of reasons ranging from a lack of education, increasing poverty rates and insecurity, but appluaded the partnership of AU, UNICEF and UNFPA in organizing this regional training program, with a view to discussing and agreeing on strategies to end child marriage and come up with action plans for countries to implement at national level.

The UNICEF Deputy Representative for Egypt, Ms. Gillian Wilcox, also expressed her thanks to the AU and the government of Egypt for hosting the regional workshop. She stressed the importance of partnership in ending HTP and elaborated on UNICEF's partnership with the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) and the National Population Council (NPC) on the eradication of FGM.

About the AU Campaign to End Child Marriage in Africa

The campaign was launched at the continental level in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 29 May 2014, during the Conference of Ministers of Social Development. It aims at ending child marriage by: (i) supporting legal and policy actions in the protection and promotion of human rights, (ii) mobilizing continental awareness of the negative socio-economic impact of child marriage, (iii) building social movement and social mobilization at the grassroots and national levels; and (iv) increasing the capacity of non-state actors to undertake evidence based policy advocacy including the role of youth leadership through new media technology, monitoring and evaluation among others.
28.03.2016 LISTEN

Accra, March 28, GNA - The Right Reverend Dr. Seth Agidi, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, has urged Christians to reconcile and be at peace with each other to reflect the love Christ has for mankind.

In a Statement copied to the Ghana News Agency to commemorate the Easter Festivity, Rt Rev. Dr. Seth Agidi, said as Christians, this Easter season provided us with another brighter opportunity to seek and chart the path of forgiveness, peace, unity and reconciliation as individual citizens, as political groupings, as civil society and as a country.

'It is a period for us to reconcile with Christ Jesus in the spirit of dedication and truth as faithful stewards of the Lord, let us avoid falling prey to the dictates of the devil, thereby allowing ourselves to be corrupted with greed and used as instruments of causing mayhem in society'.

He said as Ghanaians were approaching the November elections to elect Presidential and Parliamentary Candidates, it was important for us however to take a cue from the conduct and experiences of previous elections vis-A -vis eruptions of upheavals and wars that emanated from similar national elections held in some of our sister African countries.

'It is my belief that all actors in Ghana's political arena and electoral exercise belong to one religious faith and the other, let us therefore affirm allegiance to our country and demonstrate our faith as dedicated stewards of God'.

He urged Ghanaians and political parties to demonstrate high sense of decorum in their campaign activities.

'We may affiliate our allegiance individually to different political divides; but let us be guided by our conscious and faith, and affirm our loyalty to the big family as a faith entity, and as one nation with one people and a common destiny'.

GNA
Accra, March 28, GNA - Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, said the Ace Comedian Samuel Kwadjo Obeng Buabeng aka Bishop Bob Okala has paid his dues to the industry and has left an indelible mark in his chosen carrier.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare, said this when she called on the family of the late comedian.

She said even though she would have visited on her own as the sector Minister, her visit was at the instance of the President John Dramani Mahama, who was a personal friend of the late Okala.

The Minister gave the assurance that government would provide the needed support in the organisation of a befitting burial.

The family expressed appreciation for the support already being given to them.

Okala was survived by a wife, Yaa Serwah Buabeng and four children

The Minister was accompanied by officials from the Ministry, particularly, the National Theatre and some industry players.

GNA
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Koforidua, March 28, GNA - The Right Reverend Francis Benjamin Quashie, Anglican Bishop of the Koforidua, has called for Ghanaians to make a determined effort to overcome mistrust.

The feeling that somebody is dishonest and could not be trusted, he noted was 'the greatest weakness of the nation' - fueling hatred, jealousy and disunity.

Rt. Rev Quashie said this in his Easter message delivered at the Saint Peter's Anglican Cathedral in Koforidua.

He said it was regrettable that the political parties, which were expected to promote national unity and progress, had recruited large number of intelligent young people to peddle falsehood on radio.

Even more disheartening was the fact that some of those actively engaged in the spread of outright lies, half-truths and gossip, professed to be Christians, he added.

The Anglican Bishop, however, reminded everybody that the truth would always prevail.

GNA
Cape Coast, March 28, GNA - A total of 38 babies, made up of 22 females and 16 males were delivered between Good Friday and Easter Sunday at three health institutions in the Cape Coast Municipality.

Seven males and nine females were delivered on Good Friday, three males and seven females on the Holy Saturday; while six males and six females were born on Easter Sunday.

Twenty-two of the babies were born at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH) popularly called "Interbetin", nine at the Cape Coast Metropolitan Hospital with the Adisadel Urban Health Centre recording seven.

Madam Magdalene Kwofie, a midwife on duty at the CCTH, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview that out of the 22 births recorded at the facility, four were born through Caesarean section, including a set of twins, while 18 were normal deliveries.

She said the facility also recorded two intra-utrine fetal deaths but stated that both mothers including those who went through Caesarean sections were in very good health.

At the Cape Coast Metro Hospital, Madam Nancy Appiah, midwife in-charge, said two births went through Caesarean section, which was on the Holy Saturday and indicated that the mothers as well as the children were in good health.

She said the Hospital did not record any birth on the Easter Sunday.

She advised expectant mothers to endeavour to get people to donate blood for them before delivery in order to have blood available for transfusion should they bleed excessively during their delivery.

Ms. Veronica Eshun, a Health Assistant at the Adisadel Urban Hospita,l told the GNA that the facility did not record any birth on the Holy Saturday.

Madam Rita Mensah, who had delivered few hours before the GNA visited the Adisadel Urban Hospital, was so happy to have given birth on the day that Jesus' resurrection was being commemorated and was very thankful to God.

GNA
Accra, March 28, GNA - The Great Commission Church International (GCCI) is celebrating its silver jubilee on the theme, 'Celebrating 25 Years of Advancing the Great Commission: That I May Know Him'.

The event which coincides with the Church's 2016 National Easter Convention at Ashaley Boctwe near Accra, was attendant by all branches of the church throughout the country.

Apostle Joseph Felix Kwesi Mensah, the Chairman of the Apostolic Council of the GCCI, in his homily expressed gratitude to the Almighty God for how far He had brought them together as a church.

He hailed his colleague founding fathers of the GCCI; namely Apostles: Joseph Kwabena Antwi, Prof Samuel Asuming-Brempong, Komla Ebenezer Hagan, Samuel Vincent Ansah, Derek Sarpong and Richard Kwami Adanu, for remaining united and devoted to the call of God upon their lives.

He was full of gratitude to the Board of Trustees of the Church, the pastors and their spouses, Presiding Elders, the deaconry at all levels and every member for their positive contributions in diverse ways which had brought the church this far.

Apostle Mensah also hailed the Togo branch of the GCCI, for doing extremely well over the past 25 years and further praised the leadership there, for their efforts.

He urged the youth of the Church to remain focused to the vision of Christ for the GCCI; since they would be taking over the mantle of leadership very soon.

He charged the GCCI leadership at all levels to be committed to the church's goal of making Christ-like disciples and church growth.

Apostle Professor Samuel Asuming-Brempong, the Chairman of the Executive Council of the GCCI Ghana, said the Church since its establishment on April 1, 1991, on the University of Ghana Campus, had remained committed to its vision of propagating the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the world to all nations.

He mentioned the six-fold strategic approach of the Church in realizing its vision to include proclamation evangelism, soul-winning, church planting, disciple-making, labour training and social improvement services.

Mr Gerson Gbediame, the Member of Parliament for Nkwanta South in the Volta Region, assured Ghanaians that the Legislature would never pass any law that would legalize homosexuality in the country.

GNA
MEXICO CITY, ACCRA, March 28 - (UPI/GNA) - Paper replicas of Republican front-runner Donald Trump were burned in effigy across Mexico during the annual La Quema de Judas ritual.

In Mexico City, hundreds of people gathered and yelled "death" and other insults as they watched the burning paper-mache replicas of the billionaire, who has outraged Mexicans on both sides of the border.

Trump has proposed building a wall at the United States-Mexican border and compared Mexican immigrants to rapists.

The event, in English called The Burning of Judas, happens every year on the eve of Easter. Christians set fire to paper effigies symbolizing Judas Iscariot, who the Bible said betrayed Jesus in his final days. In the past years, the effigies have been modeled after unpopular political figures. Other effigies burned in Mexico on Saturday were replicas of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and U.S.

President Barack Obama. Leonardo Linares, an artist in Mexico City, built one of the many effigies that were burned Saturday. "For Latinos here and in the U.S., he's a danger, a real threat," Linares 52, said. "He's a good man to burn as a Judas."

Despite his inflammatory rhetoric, Trump remains the front-runner for the Republican nomination with 739 delegates to Texas Sen.

Ted Cruz's 465. A total of 1,237 delegates is needed to get the nod automatically. Sanders wants another shot at Clinton in N.Y. debate.

GNA
NEW YORK, Accra, March 28 - (UPI/GNA) - Sen. Bernie Sanders on Sunday said he wants a chance to further differentiate himself from former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in another debate, preferably in New York state. The Vermont senator, speaking on NBC's Meet the Press, repeated his concerns that there should be more debates before the remainder of the Democratic primaries are held and the convention to name a presidential nominee. Sanders said he is concerned Clinton might not be willing to again meet him in debate. "I do have a little bit of concern about that. But I certainly would like to see a debate in New York state," Clinton's home state and where she served as senator. Sanders stressed throughout the interview that one of his campaign's main goals is differentiating himself from Clinton. More debates, he said, would give the candidates the opportunity to speak directly to the American people and display those differences, especially to voters in New York. "I would hope very much that as we go into New York state, Secretary Clinton's home state, that we will have a debate, New York City, upstate, wherever, on the important issues facing New York and in fact the country," said Sanders, himself born and raised in Brooklyn. There are no debates scheduled before before the April 19 New York Democratic primary. However, the Democratic National Committee does list tentative debates in April and May on its website and Clinton's campaign has already specifically agreed to debating in New York. This is not the first time a candidate has called for more Democratic debates. Then-Democratic presidential candidate Martin O'Malley had vowed back in September to protest outside the headquarters of the DNC over its decision to have only six debates. The former Maryland governor called for his followers to join a group called #AllowDebate that was planning to rally outside the Washington, D.C. headquarters. He complained that the debate schedule was rigged to benefit Clinton, who remains the Democratic front-runner in the run-up to the presidential election. O'Malley suspended his campaign in February following a dismal showing in the Iowa caucuses that effectively ended his White House ambitions. DNC head Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz has come under fire for scheduling Democratic presidential debates on weekends, while GOP debates garnered prime-time weeknight slots. That was seen by some critics as another way to ensure Clinton retained her lead, by giving Sanders and O'Malley smaller audiences. Sanders, who calls himself a democratic socialist, was, early on, an unlikely serious competitor to Clinton. But just this weekend he swept voting in three states -- Washington, Alaska and Hawaii. Still, Clinton remains well ahead of him on the delegate count, leading up to the Democratic National Convention. She currently has 280 more delegates than Sanders.



GNA
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Nkwatia-Kwahu (E/R), March 28, GNA - The Nkwatia Development Association, has constructed an GH 800,000.00 modern police station at Nkwatia, in the Kwahu East District to help reduce the crime rate in the area and also ensure adequate security for the people.

The police station comprises a charge office, station master's office, male and female cells and two boys and girls juvenile cells including a water closet place of convenience with a borehole to provide adequate water for the station.

The Chairman of the Association, Mr Robert Dwamena, said the Association, which is made up of local citizens and those staying outside the community, was constructing a bungalow for the station officer.

The police station, which started a year ago, was financed from contributions from the members of the association, some individuals, businesses and corporate organizations own by people from the area in Accra.

Inaugurating the police station on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of Operations of the Ghana Police Service, Commissioner of Police (COP), Christian Teteh Yohonu said, it was the wish of the police service to extend police services to all communities to ensure adequate security to the country's population, but they were limited by resources.

He therefore called on communities, the assemblies, individuals and organizations to construct police stations and barracks for the police administration to post more personnel to the communities to control crime.

Mr Yohonu urged the public to be cautious of the terrorist activities all over the world and educate their children to avoid taking valuable items such as mobile phones and purse containing money on the grounds as they could be explosives.

He said the IGP had formed national, regional and district security task forces throughout the country to ensure a peaceful election in the forthcoming general election.

Mr Yohonu commended the Association for putting up the police station and advised the police officers who would occupy it to ensure regular maintenance of the facility.

The Chief of Staff, Mr Julius Debrah donated 100 bags of cement and GH 10,000.00 for the construction of the station officers bungalow.

GNA
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Takoradi, March 28, GNA - Most Reverend Father John Bonaventure Kwofie, the Bishop of Sekondi-Takoradi Catholic Diocese, has admonished Christians to witness about the resurrection of Jesus Christ in fulfillment of the great Commission.

He said the Christian life was about witnessing about Jesus Christ and therefore Christians must fervently spread the gospel at the workplace, home, school and anywhere they found themselves.

He said Jesus Christ was unjustly crucified because of hatred, wickedness and jealousy from the world and his resurrection was a manifestation of eternal life for Christians.

Most Rev. Fr. Kwofie was preaching the sermon on Easter Sunday at the Star of the Sea Cathedral of the Catholic Church in Takoradi.

He noted that Christ's resurrection was a sign of victory over bondage of sin; therefore, every Christian must live an exemplary life that reflected the nature of Christ.

The congregation prayed for the protection of the leadership of this country and a peaceful election on November 7.

Most members of the congregation wore white clothes to symbolize the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ and sang joyful songs for God's grace and mercies.

GNA
Donkorkrom (E/R), March 28, GNA - The Kwahu Traditional Council has held a durbar attended by a large number of chiefs, elders, herdsmen and people from the Kwahu area and the Afram Plains at Donkorkrom in the Kwahu Afram Plains North District.

This is the first time that such a durbar involving divisional chiefs in the Kwahu area and chiefs in the Afram Plains have held a durbar at Donkorkrom.

Addressing the durbar, the acting President of the Kwahu Traditional Council, Nana Aseidu Agyemang III, advised the chiefs and herdsmen not to give out lands to the Fulani cattle owners.

He said the Kwahu Traditional Council which is the custodian of the lands in Afram Plains had not sold or release lands to any Fulani cattle owner or group of cattle owners in the area and urged the government to send security personnel to the area to drive away the large number of Fulani herdsmen from the Afram Plains.

Nana Agyemang who is also the Chief of Abetifi and Adontenhene of the Kwahu Traditional Area advised the settler farmers to observe Kwahu customs and traditions to ensure peace and cooperation among them and the traditional authority.

He urged the cattle owners to confine and control the movements of their animals and dig boreholes to provide water for them to avoid the fight over water between the cattle owners and the farmers, which often led to the killing of innocent farmers and the raping of women in the area.

The acting President of the Traditional Council commended the government for constructing two community based Senior High Schools in the Afram Plains and appeal for two reliable pontoons to ply Ekye-Amanfrom.

He also appealed for the rehabilitation of roads in the area and for the supply of tractors to the farmers to cultivate crops this farming season to feed the nation.

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Kwahu Afram Plains South, Mr Ibrahim Issaka urged the Traditional Council to institute a yam festival for the Afram Plains in August every year when farmers started to harvest the new yam.

The Eastern Regional Minister, Ms Mavis Ama Frimpong said the government had allocated speed ferry bus to ply between Agodeke and Kpando Dorkor in the Volta Region for the transportation of goods and services, while military personnel had been sent to the area to drive away the Fulani Herdsmen from the Afram Plains.

GNA
Koforidua, March 28, GNA - Political parties and their supporters have been asked not to allow the quest for power to get the better of them to plunge the country into turmoil.

Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Koforidua Area Head of the Church of Pentecost, said they must put the nation ahead of self-serving agenda, comfort and convenience.

'The peace of the country could not be compromised. Ghana should continue to enjoy peace after the election in November.'

Apostle Nyamekye was delivering the sermon at a service to wind down a four-day convention held by the church in Koforidua.

'Jesus Christ, the only savior of the world' was the theme and it brought together more than 6,000 members of the church in the New-Juaben Municipality.

He rallied Christians to expose charlatans, parading as 'Prophets of God', who were taking advantage of the fear of insecurity of some innocent people to dupe them.

They should remain steadfast and to trust that 'God their father will always answer their prayers'.

Ms. Mavis Ama Frimpong, the Eastern Regional Minister, appealed to the people to work together to safeguard the nation's peace, unity and cohesion.

She counseled all to be mindful of the conduct and pronouncements as the political campaign gathered momentum.

GNA
Accra, March 28, GNA - The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has lauded the contributions of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) to peace and security, disaster preparedness in the sub-region.

Mr Isaias Barreto da Rosa, the Commissioner, Telecommunications and Information Technology, ECOWAS, expressed gratitude to KAIPTC and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) for their relentless support in the organisation of training programmes for the sub-region under the West Africa Disaster Preparedness Initiative (WADPI).

He said the WADPI initiative was strategic, given its timing; as it came at a time when the region was recovering from the recent devastating Ebola outbreak.

'Given the robust approach to prevention and management of emergencies, we are happy to say that the programme has had tremendous success; but we must be mindful of the resurgence of the virus in Guinea,' Mr Barreto da Rosa said in Accra at the closing ceremony of a three-week training programme under WADPI for 120 participants from Guinea and Sierra Leone.

The WADPI training which is part of the efforts to combat disaster outbreaks in the sub-region, was organised from July 13 to November 30 2015 without the two countries due to the ravaging Ebola pandemic.

Since its launch, the programme has so far trained over 1,300 ECOWAS States citizens from 14 countries including Cameroun; and more than 30 staff from the ECOWAS Commission in disaster management and rapid response.

It is being held under the auspices of the ECOWAS, in collaboration with the KAIPTC, the NADMO, the Centre for Disaster and Humanitarian Assistance Medicine, the United States Air Forces Africa, and sponsored by the US Africa Command (USAFRICOM), and Operation United Assistance Transition Disaster Preparedness Project.

The main objective of the WADPI the training is to utilise lessons learned from the recent Ebola epidemic, strengthen national capacities among the 17 West/Central African Partner Nations and to implement an all-hazards approach to disaster preparedness and response management to ensure continued regional collaboration, communication and coordination between member States in disaster preparedness and response.

Mr Barreto da Rosa said the Commission would add all WADPI trained member states into its Emergency Response Team; which would improve their capacity for national as well as regional response.

'We must invest in prevention strategies. Our governments must emphasise on humanitarian governance if we must save lives. The region must promote pre-emptive action and shun reactionary behavior,' he said.

'The WADPI initiative is one of those best practices in this regard and we must own it, practice it and replicate it in the region,' he said.

Mr Barreto da Rosa appealed to KAIPTC to extend the WADPI training programme to Cape Verde, which is the only ECOWAS country that is yet to benefit from it.

'The ECOWAS Commission also calls on the US Government to strongly consider extending this initiative to a second phase,' he said.

Major General Obed Boamah Akwa, the Commandant of the KAIPTC, said the Centre had over the years established itself as a Centre of Excellence for research into various aspects of training in disaster management, integrated peace support operations and post conflict reconstruction.

He said the KAIPTC therefore, strives to train people to engage in those areas towards the prevention, management and resolution of conflicts and how to help rebuild war torn and disaster affected states.

Mr IIsmail S. T. Tarawali, the National Security Coordinator of Sierra Leone, said there was the need for countries in the sub-region to share their experiences in disaster management and to position themselves to respond in a coordinated fashion towards disaster preparedness, mitigation and recovery.

Mr Olabisi Dare, the Head of Humanitarian Affairs in charge of Refugees and Displaced Persons at the Africa Union, applauded the ECOWAS for continuously blazing the trail on the continent in the area of integration, more importantly, in other areas such as disaster preparedness.

GNA
Koforidua, March 28, GNA - Ms Mavis Frimpong, the Eastern Regional Minister, has said the Regional Coordinating Council's (RCC) would support in the National Stop Crime Campaign and help attain the objective of the 'efiase project' launched by the President.

She said whiles the 'efiase project' sought to focus on the rehabilitation and integration of ex-convicts into the society, the stop crime campaign would look at preventing crime adding that such programmes would impact hugely on the prisons reformation.

The Regional Minister, made the pledge when, the national stop crime campaigner and prisons ambassador, Mr Ibrahim Kwarteng, called on her to officially invite her to the national launching of the stop crime campaign in Accra.

Ms Frimpong said records indicate that about 30 per cent of ex-convicts come back to the prisons again and lauded Mr Kwarteng, a journalist with the state broadcaster, for singlehandedly embarking on such a relevant campaign.

She said the Eastern Region has four prisons including Nsawam which is the largest prisons in Ghana, Akuse, Fori-fori at the Afram Plains and the Koforidua Prisons.

Mr Kwarteng said his visit was informed by the fact that the Regional Minister already had a programme with the prisons in the Eastern Region to build a data on all prisoners.

The stop crime campaigner told the Minister that the television show of the campaign within the short time had ensured that a woman, who had been on remand for several years at the Nsawam Prison, has been granted bail after she was interviewed on the TV programme.

He said so far the Ghana Education Service (GES) has given him the permit to visit all schools from the Senior High Schools to campaign against crime and noted that the impact and response so far was good.

GNA
Accra, March 28, GNA - Apostle Professor Samuel Asuming-Brempong, the Chairman of the Great Commission Church International (GCCI), has called on Ghanaians to pray for a peaceful general election in November.

He said when Ghanaians pray, God would grant them the leadership that would carry the nation to another level.

Apostle Prof Asuming-Brempong made the appeal at Ashaley Botwe near Accra, during the GCCI 2016 National Easter Convention.

The four-day convention, which coincides with the GCCI's silver jubilee celebration, was on the theme, 'Celebrating 25 Years of Advancing the Great Commission: That I May Know Him'.

Apostle Prof Asuming-Brempong entreated Ghanaians to pray for God's mercy to come upon the nation; so that Ghana would continue to be peaceful and stable.

The Chairman said for the nation to develop, it would require that all and sundry, especially those in leadership positions, make a lot of sacrifices.

'If you are in a position, you should not think of self-aggrandizement or self-enrichment only for you and your family. But you should live a sacrificial life, so that those who are downtrodden would be relieved,' he said.

He said over 2000 years ago on Good Friday, God in His own wisdom, decided to sacrifice His only begotten son for the salvation of mankind, and therefore, Christians must be willing to make some sacrifices for the good of their neighbours; stating that 'Be ready to sacrifice even unto death'.

He advised Christians to serve God with all humility and to emulate Jesus' example of spiritual leadership; which is servant leadership.

Apostle Prof Asuming-Brempong urged Christians to seek first the Kingdom of God and its righteousness; and all other things they desire would be added to it by their Heavenly Father.

GCCI was started in April 1991 on the campus of the University of Ghana, Legon, by seven founding ministers namely Apostles Joseph Felix Kwesi Mensah, Joseph Kwabena Antwi, Prof Asuming-Brempong, Komla Ebenezer Hagan, Samuel Vincent Ansah, Derek Sarpong and Richard Kwami Adanu.

GNA
Kumasi, March 28, GNA - The Ashanti Regional Manager of the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC), Mr. Samuel Obeng Asiamah, has urged drivers and passengers to heed the call to wear seat belt, saying, this is in their own interest.

He expressed discomfort about the continue disregard for the safety measure by many commercial and private car drivers, in the region.

He told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi that only four out of 10 drivers put on their seat belts, when driving.

Mr. Asiamah said this should give cause to worry given the fact that wearing the belt could reduce the risk of getting killed in a road crash by 50 per cent.

These protect drivers against injury in a collision and also reduce the risk of being thrown against the dashboard, windshield or out of a door, flung open in a crash.

He again called for motorists to have enough rest and avoid speeding, noting that, many of the crashes were attributable fatigue and speeding.

Mr Asiamah reminded them that it was against the law to drive for more than four hours without resting, adding that commercial drivers should also not work for more than eight hours.

GNA
28.03.2016 LISTEN

Sorbelle (UWR), March 28, GNA - Alhaji Amidu Sulemana, Upper West Regional Minister, has expressed worries about the depletion of forest reserves and the rampant cutting down of rosewood tree in some parts of the Region.

He said a Regional Security Taskforce together with the Forestry Commission had been set up to monitor the activities of those engaged in the felling of the rosewood trees and bring them to book.

Alhaji Sulemana announced this at the annual Gandawi Nabahilime Festival of the chiefs and people of the Gandawi Traditional Area in the Sissala West District on Saturday.

He reminded the people to remain vigilant and report people who were engaged in the indiscriminate felling of trees to the authorities in the districts for action.

The Regional Minister instructed District Security Committees in the various districts to take the issue as a security threat and come out with measures to stop the negative practice in the Region.

Alhaji Sulemana also expressed concern about the negative cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, elopement, child betrothal and early marriages, which were still practised in some of the communities.

'Some of these cultural practices are not only dehumanising but are also against the fundamental human rights of the affected,' he said.

Alhaji Sulemana appealed to traditional rulers to condemn those bad cultural practices which were unacceptable in 'modern day Ghana'.

He also pleaded with traditional rulers to take the lead role in the fight against some of those outmoded cultural practices.

'We should be bold to report people who are caught practicing and promoting these negative cultural practices in the communities to the police for prosecution,' he said.

Kuoro Issifu Kazia Nankana, acting Paramount Chief of the Gandawi Traditional Area, in his welcoming address, urged politicians not to do anything which would disturb the peace in Ghana.

Whether good or bad, Ghana needs peace to manage its affairs and all must work hard to maintain the peace prevailing in Ghana,' Kuoro Nankana pointed out.

Kuoro Nankana appealed to government to provide the Gandawi area with a Health Centre to help cater for the health needs of the people.

He also pleaded with government to consider providing the area with an irrigation dam to encourage dry season agriculture production.

Due consideration should also be given for the establishment of an Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Centre in the area to promote teaching and learning of ICT among school children.

GNA
Accra, March 28, GNA - On Monday, March 21, eleven dinners were held simultaneously in Ghana to celebrate French gastronomy, as a part of the GoAt de France / Good France worldwide event.

A statement issued by the French Embassy in Ghana and copied to the Ghana News Agency on Thursday said 10 restaurants in four cities in Ghana served a French dinner, while an exclusive dinner was also held at the Residence of France in Accra in the presence of President John Dramani Mahama and Lady Lordina.

It said among the distinguished guests at the dinner hosted by Ambassador of France to Ghana at the Residence on the evening of Monday, March 21, were President John Dramani Mahama and his spouse Lady Lordina, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Ms Hanna Tetteh, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Dr Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, Minister of Trade and Industry, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Minister of Education, and Mrs Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.

It said over 100 high-level guests coming from Ghanaian political, economic, academic and cultural worlds enjoyed the five-course menu prepared by the French Chef Nicolas Nguyen Van Hai, from the famous restaurant Chapeau Fin in Bordeaux who flew to Accra especially for this occasion.

The statement said wine from the same region and champagne were also served.

It noted that this event with an invited guest chef from Bordeaux, France falls in line with the follow up to the visits of the Bordeaux delegation to Accra in Last February to explore cooperation with Ghana, upon invitation from President Mahama during his previous bi-lateral visit to France last year.

It said in Ghana, the participating restaurants were based in Accra with Bistro 22, Chapter One (Villa Monticello), Le Tandem, Papillon (Kempinski), Sankofa (Movenpick) and The Orangery; in Takoradi with Euphoria (Protea Hotels) and The Pub; in Akosombo with The Royal Senchi Hotel; and in Kumasi with The View.

It said a numerous and curious gourmet public filled the restaurants' tables to savor the exclusive French-inspired menus that had been created especially for this occasion.

'Each chef offered a menu 'A la franAaise' in his/her restaurant with a traditional French aperitif, a cold starter, a hot starter, fish or shellfish, meat or poultry, a French cheese (or cheeseboard), a dessert, French wines and digestifs.

'The chefs were also free to highlight their own culinary traditions and cultures and of course to use local products,' it stated.

It said this event gave an opportunity to Ghanaian Gourmets to enjoy French food and wine here in Ghana, where there is an increased interest in French cuisine.

The statement said their support and positive feedback is a proof that for next edition, there would be an even bigger participation.

It said this second edition of the GoAt de France/Good France event was organized on the initiative of Chef Alain Ducasse and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development.

It said in 150 countries around the world, restaurants and embassies offered 1500 dinners to celebrate the French Gastronomy, listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage and tempted the public to savour a French dinner.

'In each participating restaurant, the event paid tribute to a vibrant, open and innovative cuisine, while remaining true to its values of sharing, pleasure, and respect for good food and for the planet.

'Chefs from around the world took advantage of French gastronomy's assets to express their talent and expertise, and, with 85 per cent of the chefs participating being foreigners, the menu displayed a rich diversity, promoting local specialties and openness to the outside world,' the statement said.

'Now, more than ever, gastronomy is a leading aspect of France and its culture,' it added.

The statement said it was an opportunity to share with Ghana the values that the French cuisine represents: conviviality, respect for our planet and its resources, and cultural openness.

GNA
28.03.2016 LISTEN

PROPHET KWABENA TAWIAH

Prophet Kwabena Tawiah, the founding overseer of the Church of Rabbi, and a grotesque character that lived in the stone-age of dinosaurs and mammoths and homo sapiens, had this to say about the death of Jake Otanka Obetsebi-Lamptey: Ghana will witness death of eight (8) more great leaders because 9 people have been named and so far one is gone and so we need to be very prayerful.

Yes, some of our Christian clerics have unabashedly assumed a strange sense of spiritual psychiatry and a poisonous cocktail of Nazified psychology, and much like the Nazis and their sympathizers who meticulously kept records of slaughtered Roma gypsies, Jews and so on, these grotesque clerical caricatures have also learnt to keep records of a corps of dead-men-walking and their obituaries.

When are these grotesque clerical caricatures ever going to tell us when God says they are going to die? Why are they always predicting others deaths but not their own? And look at the funny name the Church of Rabbi! What is Church of Rabbi? What is Rabbi doing there in the name? Is this Church of Rabbi not anachronistically weird as Bishop J.Y.s New Jerusalem?

THE GREAT IRONY OF POLITICAL DOCTRINOLOGY

Then we have the Victorian or 18th sapeur Bishop Obinim, a proponent of theological dandyism in the public eye, turning the God of Rev. Owusu Bempah and Bishop Adu and the henotheistic pantheon of gods Akin Tafo into a huge nest of snakes harassing and terrorizing citizens of the Ashanti Region.

As Kweku Bonsam succinctly put it:

The snakes are gods of the land but are they coming to [peoples] homes because they are angry so they must not [be] killed (our emphasis).

Why does the testosterone-charged rhetoric of Kweku Bonsam contain the non-conditional auxiliary verb must as opposed to the effeminate rhetoric of Rev. Owusu Bempah? Aside that, are gods mortal, like human beings are?

And how did Kweku Bonsam get to know that an alleged rape in the bush where the huge nest of snakes reportedly inhabited might constitute an exclusive causation of this strange ophidian migration?

And if so, Why are these snakes not appearing in parliament and the Flagstaff House (Golden Jubilee House) where the rape of the national coffers is carefully planned and executed?

Are the national coffers not as attractive and powerful as the hymnal integrity of womanhood?

These snakes cannot and should not only act as innocent phalli in the welcoming pudenda of womanhood and of the public purse.

They have to bite these political and religious thieves hard. Dandyish Bishop Obinim can be called upon to enact this poisonous ophidian sting-bite but he is not trustworthy, for the last time he slept with or had carnal knowledge of one of his junior pastors wives he cursed the seed of that adulterous romance with madness and physical paralysis.

However, unless we want him to curse our unrepentant or recidivistic political and religious thieves with madness and physical paralysis beyond the threshold of redeemability, we had better engage his spiritual and therianthropic prowess.

Also rather than people like Kweku Bonsam concentrating on a quest for scientific epidemiology as to whether anthropogenic reasons might be a possible explanation for disturbing the ecological balance of these snakes and thereby forcing them out of their natural habitats, we resort to self-serving transcendental phenomenology and to the gripping fear of manufactured consent to avoid possible ecological responsibility.

Even so, Kweku Bonsam is rhetorically being sinister and may evidently be economical with the truth here. How so? First of all, we all know Kweku Bonsam did not want to be a harbinger of the apocalyptic message: Obinim Spiritual Father SpeaksHis End is Near. He certainly knows killing the huge nest of snakes will constitute a death certificate for Bishop Obinim, his good friend.

We also harbor the opinion that Kweku Bonsams oracle Kofi Kofi could be the other one half in a close transcendental system of Siamese Twins, with Agyampremu Kofi, since both carry the same theophoric name, Kofi. Nonetheless the ophidian therianthrope also goes by the name Kwadwo Edem, according to Rev. Owusu Bempah.

The word Edem somehow sounds and looks deceptively like Eden where the proverbial snake tore into the hymnal apple, the same proverbial apple that fell on Isaac Newtons gravitational head, of Eve, one of Bishops Obinims junior pastors wives. Whether Kofi or Edem, Bishop Obinim certainly belongs to the reptilian clade of quack therianthropic and theological gangsters.

So wherever we turn to there is the therianthropic Bishop Obinim. These political and religious snakes such as Bishop Obinim have completely taken over the space of public psychology, something which Bob Marley equates with spiritual wickedness in high and low places, a spiritual battle which the people have to wage against in order to free themselves. He sings on the track So Much Trouble in the World:

I and I nah come to fight flesh and blood but spiritual wickedness. So while they fight you down, stand firm and give Jar thanks and praisesCause I and I no expect to be justified by the laws of man

Clearly, then, like all creative, perceptive, and thoughtful human beings, Bob Marley does not see man and his laws as ends in and of themselves. Thus, he seeks and expects justice from a higher authority to neutralize the inadequacies of man head-on. The question is, Where do we exactly look for right answers and creative solutions as all these human snakes are using this same higher authority to defraud the masses and to make them estranged prisoners of ignorance? Let us sing along with Bob Marley as he gives this political hymn to the world (Crazy Baldhead):

Here comes the conman, coming with his con-plan; we wont take no bribe; weve got to stay alive; we gonna chase those crazy, chase those crazy baldheads, chase those crazy baldheads out of town

FUHRER AKUFO-ADDO AND THE THREAT OF POLITICAL INSTABILITY

With the unraveling of the secret plot tactically and strategically managed by Fuhrer Akufo-Addo to usurp political power by any means through his importation of three South African mercenaries into the country, and under the guise of training certain members closely associated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ghanaians, the intelligence community, and the National Bureau of Investigations (BNI) must be more proactive and vigilant than they have previously been in uncovering these clandestine acts of security breach.

The BNI has been a sleeping dog for far too long.

We have already made the case elsewhere that the BNI should be technologically retooled and its personnel sufficiently trained to meet international standards in the areas of surveillance and intelligence-gathering techniques. Far more important is, perhaps, first of all, depoliticizing the BNI and its strategic and tactical objectives. This will go a long way to ensure that national security concerns remain beyond the reach of partisan politics, corruption, and duopolistic conceit.

We also need to closely monitor the apocalyptic rhetoric of religious demagogues and their politically divisive activities across the nation, Africa, and the world, and the creeping enticement of political theology in Ghanas duopolistic culture. This is not rocket science.

After all, we have teachable instances of deadly terrorism recently in the Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso, to take security matters seriously and give them the strategic attention they deserve. But, the investigation of the clandestine activities of Fuhrer Akufo-Addo and the three mercenaries by the BNI should go beyond the three mercenaries, to include another layer of investigation that closely looks at the possible role of the South African government (and other foreign governments) in this abortive yet overly important teachable breach of national security. In other words, we dare not overlook the strategic and tactical essentialness of this possibility of Fuhrer Akufo-Addo and the leadership of the NPP collaborating with foreign elements to destabilize the country.

Fuhrer Akufo-Addo should have known better as he came to the NPP with a load of rich political history of Mate Mehu terrorism during the Nkrumah dispensation. His uncle J.B. Danquah was a dangerous tool in the hands of the Central Intelligence Agency (C.I.A.), a man who collaborated with the C.I.A. to overthrow the democratically elected government of Nkrumah and to destabilize the country at all cost so that his usurpation of political power with foreign assistance, even though the masses had consistently rejected him at the polls, became a privileged replacement for what he may have essentially construed as his royal entitlement to the presidency.

Likewise, we see serpentine frauds such as Bishop Adu, Rev. Owusu Bempah, Bishop Obinim, and some of their colleagues in the clergy trying so hard to usurp the privileges and prerogatives of God.

Danquah engaged the country in a spate of terroristic acts that led to the murder of children, innocent men and women. Others he merely used and took advantage of as useful idiots to attempt to achieve his stillborn political objectives. We clearly see abortive and frustrative replications of these paedomorphic political and intimidating acts in the carrot-and-stick grudging personality of Fuhrer Akufo-Addo as he tries to move heaven and earth to become Ghanas next president.

Just like his uncle Danquah, he is desperately trying to use the bullet and the ballot at the same time rather than trying to use Malcolm Xs the bullet or the ballot dichotomy. Fuhrer Akufo-Addo, we should remind our readers, had to run for his life and hide when the National Liberation Council (N.L.C.) came looking for him after the C.I.A.-funded coup detat.

Beyond this, we have a teachable precedent involving Severo Moto, a major opposition leader who has been running a shadow parallel government to the government in Equatorial Guinea, from his base in Spain, and Mark Thatcher, the late Margaret Thatchers son, and a network of hired South African mercenaries including high-profile figures such as Simon Mann, Nick du Toit, Sergio Fernando Patricio Cardoso, Georges Olympic Nunez Alerson, and Jose Passocas Domingos who attempted to overthrow the government of Equatorial Guinea led by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo in a 2004 coup plot now known as the Wonga Coup:

Manacled hand and foot, with his straggly beard shot through with grey and dressed in prison fatigues, Mann appeared at Black Beach prison in Malabo to claim that a London-based oil trader was the mastermind behind the scheme. There was more: Sir Mark Thatcher, the son of the former prime minister, was far more deeply implicated than he had admitted; the governments of South Africa and Spain not only knew what was being planned but they encouraged it to go ahead

Mr. Calil and Sir Mark are facing civil action for damages by the Equatorial Guinea government and Baroness Thatchers son received a four-year suspended jail term and fined R3m (265,000) by the High Court in South Africa after pleading guilty to charges in connection with the plot. He claimed he had been an inadvertent participant. Asked about Sir Marks involvement, Mr. Mann said: He was part of the team

Some of the names emerged soon after Manns arrest when South African police intercepted a letter to his wife in Cape Town with a wonga list. Featuring Smelly (a nickname for Mr Calil) and Scratcher (Sir Mark Thatcher) among the alleged financiers

BOB MARLEY: AMBUSH IN THE NIGHT

Bob Marley, one of the worlds and historys greatest lyricists, captured the behavior of Fuhrer Akufo-Addo and the three mercenaries: See them fighting for power; but they know not the hour, so they bribing with their guns, spare-parts and moneyYeah, this ambush in the night; Planned by society; ambush in the night More importantly, though, political anarchy and nihilism are the ultimate outcomes of Ambush in the Night. The apocalyptic message of the track Ambush in the Night represents the national security challenges Fuhrer Akufo-Addo, the leadership of the NPP, and the three mercenaries pose to Ghana. Ghana must not allow this to ever happen again.

And as for Kennedy Agyapong and his sensational agitprop politics that Americans are somehow responsible for the training of bodyguards in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) the less said about it, the better.

Kennedy has consistently proven not to be a reliable whistleblower given his brash emotionalism, low political and emotional intelligence. He has no clue whatsoever about public diplomacy, international relations and public relations. The politics of insults is what he knows best, his forte!

We shall return
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The 74th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron completed its six-month theater security package deployment throughout Eastern Europe, March 18, 2016.



Approximately 350 Airmen and 12 A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft from Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, participated in 13 events and exercises, visited 15 countries and conducted 1,193 sorties in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.



"They've had to adjust to several different locations, lots of travelling, lots of movement, and then figuring out how to operate at a different location that has different capabilities -- sometimes not all of the capabilities that they're used to in order to do the mission," said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bryan France, 74th EFS commander. "But when it comes to actually getting the mission done, they've trained so well to it every day. So long as they're equipped for it, they're going to knock it out of the park."



France cited his squadron's ability to conduct fighter operations during winter weather on a rotational basis in Eastern Europe, execute forward air refueling point operations while doing austere landings, land on Soviet-era airfields and support detachments in six countries while operating a different number of A-10s and Airmen at each location.



He also described his squadron's partnership with the Bulgarians as one of ease, accommodation and mutual respect. Flight operations inherently produce challenges, he said, but added that face-to-face exchanges between Bulgarian and American pilots and ground controllers ultimately produce lessons learned that are far-reaching in both strategic and operational value.



"You don't want to learn those lessons in the middle of warfare," France said. "You want to learn them here in training, and we've been able to do that."

Bulgarian air force Brig. Gen. Ivan Lalov, 3rd Air Force Base commander, highlighted the bilateral partnership throughout the deployment, also known to the Bulgarians as Thracian Thunder 2016.



"I'd like to thank all of you and our other colleagues who are not here for their participation in this exercise, one of the longest exercises in our base," the general said. "Personally, I'd like to thank Lt. Col. France [for] our close cooperation. We tried to solve problems together, and I'm sure we solved them. Thanks again for your participation. We wish you success in your future."



In addition to multilateral exchanges, France talked about integrating with former Soviet Union aircraft, like the MiG 24, MiG 29 and SU-25s -- an achievement many had been waiting their entire careers to see.



"These are all pieces of aviation that we studied as threats at one point, and we're now getting to fly with them as allies," France said. "Without having this opportunity to deploy as an EFS, we would never have seen that."



France said seeing the looks on the faces of Airmen, particularly those serving in mission support roles, when viewing the fruits of their labor was the most rewarding aspect of serving as the TSP commander.



"These are Airmen who don't always get to see the aircraft they're putting airborne by establishing communications structures, ensuring the flightline is guarded or getting cargo across country borders from Estonia to Bulgaria," France said. "Here, they got front-row seating to see what they put airborne and that mission accomplished."



With Plovdiv, Bulgaria - the City of Seven Hills - as the backdrop for their departure, the Flying Tigers snarled throughout the skies over the former Iron Curtain one final time.

They departed the same way they arrived: not under circumstances once feared during the height of the Cold War but as transatlantic partners committed to helping their NATO allies and deterring potential aggression.



While they completed just one installment in the U.S. Air Force's commitment to the security of Europe, France said he was confident about his squadron's place in the history of Operation Atlantic Resolve.



"What I can envision being written in the history books about the 74th EFS -- relative to this deployment in Operation Atlantic Resolve -- are all of the firsts that we've presented and the impact that these Airmen have made in assuring NATO alliances," France said. "These are the things you'll see happen on an operational basis later. And the people who showed that [it] can be done -- that was the 74th EFS."
March 28, 2016

Syria - How The Palmyra Victory Changes the Narrative

The liberation of Palmyra is a decisive turning point in the war on Syria. While there were earlier military successes by the Syrian Arab Army and its allies, the publicity value of securing the valued Roman ruins of Palmyra is much higher than any earlier victory. It will change some of the false narratives of the conflict.

The Syrian government is no longer "the Assad regime" and the Syrian Arab Army no longer the "Assad forces". Ban Ki Moon, the head of the United Nations, congratulated the Syrian government to its success:

In a news conference in Jordan, Ban said he was "encouraged" that the UNESCO world heritage site is out of extremist hands and that the Syrian government "is now able to preserve and protect this human common cultural asset".

One important part of liberating Palmyra was the use of Russian electronic warfare equipment to interfere with electromagnetic signals around Palmyra. The Islamic State rigged the ruins with improvised explosive devices but was unable to remotely detonate them.

The myth that the Syrian and Russian government are in cahoots with the Islamic State, told by various propagandist as well as the British and U.S. government, has now proven to be false. But other false claims are still made:

Lost in the celebrations was a discussion of how Palmyra had fallen in the first place. When the Islamic State captured the city in May, the militants faced little resistance from Syrian troops. At the time, residents said officers and militiamen had fled into orchards outside the city, leaving conscripted soldiers and residents to face the militants alone.

That depiction of the battle is pure nonsense. The Islamic State offensive that ended with its occupation of Palmyra took thirteen days from May 13 to May 26 2015. Heavy fighting and several Syrian army counter offensives took place during those days. After the Islamic State finally captured the city, the Syrian army immediately prepared for a larger operation to regain the city. This was launched successfully in July 2015 but for lack of air support the gains made were again lost a week later.

Throughout the 2015 fighting around Palmyra the U.S. air force, which claimed to fight the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, did not intervene at all. ISIS was free to resupply through the open east-Syrian desert.

The sole reason that the Islamic State could successfully attack Palmyra was a very large ongoing attack by al-Qaeda Jihadists and CIA mercenary forces on the Syrian government forces in Idleb governate. The Syrian army moved troops from Palmyra to defend Idleb and Latakia and the forces left behind were no longer large enough to repel the Islamic State attack.

The attack on Idleb, for which the CIA allowed its proxy forces to directly cooperated with al-Qaeda, was supported by electronic warfare from Turkey which disrupted the Syrian military communication. The attack and the obvious cooperation between the Jihadists and Turkish and U.S. secret services was the reason that Russia and Iran decided to intervene in the conflict with their own forces. It had crossed their red line.

What followed was the roll up of all "rebels" that posed an immediate danger to the Syrian government. After Turkey ambushed a Russian jet all "rebel" forces supported by Turkey became priority targets. When the success of large scale offensives in Latakia and around Aleppo was established, Russia imposed a cease fire on the U.S. supported forces and on the Syria government. This cease fire freed up the Syrian, Iranian and Russian forces needed to successfully take back Palmyra. From there on the attack will progress eastward to Deir Ezzor and later on to Raqqa.

The Palmyra victory was the biggest defeat yet of the Islamic State. It poses a problem for the Obama administration:

Washington has endeavored to portray the battle against Islamic State as a project of the United States and its allies, while accusing Moscow of attacking moderate rebels instead of the extremists. Palmyra seems to embody an alternative narrative.

Congratulations, though still with loads of obligatory anti-Assad rhetoric, are now coming from unexpected corners like the conservative mayor of London:

I cannot conceal my elation as the news comes in from Palmyra and it is reported that the Syrian army is genuinely back in control of the entire Unesco site. There may be booby traps in the ruins, but the terrorists are at last on the run. Hooray, I say. Bravo  and keep going.

I concur.

Posted by b on March 28, 2016 at 9:50 UTC | Permalink

Comments
They may be competitors, but a number of lender and insurer BDMs in one market are working together to better serve brokers.



A number of lender BDMs, insurers and appraisers in the Ottawa/Kingston area formed the Eastern Ontario Lending Association (EOLA) in a bid to collectively work together to better serve the mortgage broker industry.



The association is a great intelligence source; we talk about whats going on in the industry, Stephanie Guistini, account manager, client relations for CMHC, told MortgageBrokerNews.ca. Theres a great partnership between lenders, even though theyre competitors.



Its helped for gaining intel."



According to Guistini  who acts as the associations treasurer -- the association grew from a series of events that were hosted for brokers.



However, its evolved to include a total of 24 members  from various lenders, insurers and appraisers  who actively work to help brokers and further the channel.



The goal is to become more effective as BDMs and become more effective for our brokers, Andrea Haines, regional manager, eastern Ontario for Magenta Investment told MortgageBrokerNews.ca. We communicate with each other and share info on getting deals done; it empowers us to be better for brokers.



Membership includes BDMs from ever lender, all three insurers, and appraiser. Anyone who reaches out can join.



Members meet regularly; they host events for brokers, as well as a Christmas event for EOLA members and an annual summer event in Kingston.



And many fruitful partnerships have emerged from the association.



A lot of lenders will recommend each other if they cant get a deal done, Guistini said.



She hopes other markets will see what EOLA has been able to accomplish and form similar alliances.



I hope so. If were able to do it, I dont know why other markets cant, Guistini said. There are no negatives that have come from it.
A bill that would define the grace period for TRID is still lingering in the House of Representatives despite a series of attempts to pass it.



The Homebuyers Assistance Act, which provides a four-month grace period for compliance with the TILA-RESPA rule, is still on the back burner, according to a HousingWire report.



The bill was sponsored by Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.) and was hailed by industry groups, but didnt make it into year-end spending legislation. Hill wanted to add the bill to year-end spending legislation to give it a greater chance of passing, according to HousingWire. The White House had already promised to veto the bill.



The CFPB has already clearly stated that initial examinations will evaluate good faith efforts by lenders, the White House stated in a release. The Administration strongly opposes (the bill), as it would unnecessarily delay implementation of important consumer protections designed to eradicate opaque lending practices that contribute to risky mortgages, hurt homeowners by removing the private right of action for violations, and undercut the nation's financial stability.



Hill said the bill was necessary to provide clarity to mortgage professionals on how TRID would be enforced.



CFPBs lack of interest in rectifying the problem it caused speaks volumes about its true commitment to helping consumers, Hill stated in a release. Despite numerous reports of the TRID rule delaying the home-buying process for American families, CFPB is sitting on its hands and has done virtually nothing to help consumers, title companies, lenders, and realtors navigate this new closing regime since.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The ground east of the Rockies is far more likely to shake this year with damaging though not deadly earthquakes, federal seismologists report in a new risk map for 2016. Much of that is a man-made byproduct of drilling for energy.

Parts of Oklahoma now match northern California for the nation's most shake prone. One north-central Oklahoma region has a 1 in 8 chance of a damaging quake in 2016, with other parts closer to 1 in 20.

Overall, 7 million people live in areas where the risk has dramatically jumped for earthquakes caused by disposal of wastewater, a byproduct of drilling for oil and gas. That is mostly concentrated in Oklahoma,Texas, New Mexico, Kansas, Colorado and Arkansas.

Natural earthquake risk also increased around the New Madrid fault in Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas and Illinois.

In a first-of-its-kind effort, the U.S. Geological Survey on Monday released a map for risks of damaging quakes in the current year. Past efforts looked at 50-year risks and didn't include man-made quakes. The new risks are mostly based on increases in quakes felt last year.

These are not massive quakes that kill hundreds or thousands of people and leave devastation in their wake. Instead, these smaller quakes happen more frequently, said Mark Petersen, chief of the National Seismic Hazard Mapping Project. They damage but don't topple buildings.

"There's no question that there's a lot of shaking going on in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas," Petersen said in an interview after a press conference Monday. "These are much higher ground motions" than the last time he created the longer-term map, in 2014.

For example, on that map the risk was low in Dallas; now, after a tenfold increase in risk, Petersen said it compares to places in California. The Dallas-Fort Worth area risk is between 2 to 5 percent this year, he said.

"Oklahoma and Texas have the largest population exposed to induced quakes," Petersen said.

North-central Oklahoma was said to have a 12 percent risk, and it has already been hit: A 5.1 magnitude quake caused some damage around Fairview in February.

Seismologist Rowena Lohman of Cornell University, who wasn't part of the map team, said the increase around Oklahoma is easily noticeable and scientists are trying to determine whether these man-made smaller quakes lead to larger events.

Induced quakes are to blame for much of the problem. They result when wastewater is injected deep underground, said USGS seismologist Justin Rubinstein, the deputy chief of the mapping program. That injection is a byproduct of energy drilling, including hydraulic fracturing, a relatively new and controversial process to drill for oil and gas. But he said the fracking process itself mostly doesn't cause quakes strong enough to be damaging, while injecting fracking waste does.

Rubinstein said there is a scientific consensus "that wastewater disposal does cause earthquakes."

Arkansas, Kansas and Ohio saw dramatic reductions in man-made quakes when those states tighten restrictions on wastewater injections, Rubinstein said.

In Oklahoma, "the longer we go, the more we pump down there, the more likelihood we have that we're going to have larger quakes," Petersen said.

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin said the research justifies action taken by Oklahoma earlier this year to cut back on injections.

"Recent declines in produced wastewater disposal in Oklahoma are not reflected in the USGS map," Fallin said. "This gives us even a stronger base in going forward and gives state regulators further justification for what they are doing."

Rubinstein said it's too early to see any results from Oklahoma's new efforts.

The increase in the natural quakes in the New Madrid area remains a mystery, Petersen said, but "it's higher than it's been in several years."

___

Online:

USGS One-year seismic map: http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2016/1035/ofr20161035.pdf
Diamondback Energy Vice President and COO Michael Hollis spoke Thursday at an event co-hosted by the Permian Basin chapter of the International Association of Directional Drilling and the Young Professionals group of the Society of Petroleum Engineers.

From home plate, Hollis spoke to a crowd of about 120 sitting in the stands at Security Bank Ballpark and hit on key concerns of vendors and operators alike amid the current state of prolonged depressed oil prices.

To start, he said that speaking at the ballpark was inspiring.

As I stand here, I cant help but think of the Kevin Costner movie Field of Dreams. He built a ball field in the middle of the cornfield because he was told, If you build it, they well come, he said, quoting a famous line that has endured since the films release in 1989. Now, imagine building an oilfield in the middle of the desert like Midland, Texas. If you build it, they will come.

Hollis said that despite what many consider a lack of beauty above ground in the Permian, there is a bountiful basket of minerals below.

This rock right here beneath our feet makes many of our geologic brethren get misty-eyed when they think of the rock, he said.

The abundance of oil in the Permian makes the basin the most prolific in the lower 48 states. Hollis noted that the Permian is a safe haven for investors, even amid low oil prices. The downturn wont last, he said. Good times are sure to come back, and when they do, the Permian will be the first to shine.

When this recovery comes, and it will, when that first dollar goes back into our industry, it will most likely get deployed right here in the Permian Basin, Hollis said.

Hollis discussed the importance of the oil industry in improving quality of life and that the responsibility of those in the oil industry is great.

Our industry has raised more lives out of poverty than any before it, and most likely more yet to come, he said. We have fed more people with our fertilizers; weve extended the life expectancy with drugs that are from our product. This is an industry that you need to be proud to be a part of. The world needs what you help to produce, and we cannot maintain our way of life without it.

Current times are tough, however.

Yes, we are oversupplied, he said. The price is representative of that. But what we do know is that the system right now is broken, and itll be real slow to get this glut worked out of the system, (but the capital markets will work).

The market, he said, is sure to correct itself.

Supply and demand will fix this oversupply, Hollis said. Like you always hear: Low oil prices, they are the best solution to low oil prices. The recovery will come.

Hollis said low oil prices have made the industry stronger and more vigilant and that all parties involved in production not only are working together to make the best out of a difficult time, but that theyve shown their mettle.

As with any challenge that weve had in our industry, this price war that we have going on right now is only (prompting) the U.S. producers, business partners and service providers to work harder and squeeze out as much efficiency as we can out of the system, he said. Right now, we can not only survive, but we can thrive at some of these prices.

Weve shown the world that we are the low-cost operator, and we can compete on this global scale, Hollis said when addressing Americas place in the oil industry. Many of the companies, if theyre still around today, theyve had to dig deeper than they ever thought they could. We always find a way -- of course we do. Its what we always do. Our industry is a great representation of the American dream. We employ the brightest and the hardest-working and the highest-paid professionals in the business world right here in the Permian.

Hollis said 2016 is not a year of growth, but rather of capital discipline and flexibility. He also said that while the U.S. needed 1,800 rigs during the last boom, less than half that figure will be needed during the recovery.

The Diamondback executive offered advice from a producers perspective about how service companies can better prepare for the future, saying they should focus on what they can control, such as having quality control and quality personnel. Doing so will differentiate a company from its peers.

Hollis also addressed young professionals directly.

This is probably the first downturn that youve ever witnessed, he said. This is a wonderful industry, and its going to afford you a successful and rewarding career. But you also have to differentiate yourself from the rest of the pack.

He offered this advice: Hard work is commendable, but we expect it. Results are rewarded. You are not entitled to anything. You have to earn whatever you get.

Hollis told the young professionals to not become dismayed when they see their co-workers get laid off.

You need to make sure that you can disassociate yourself from this rumor train or rumor mill (because) it can derail your career if you let it, he said. If you can maintain a positive can-do attitude, if you can work hard and outpace your competition, if youre the best at what you do, even if you get laid off, youre not going to be out of work long.

As for failure itself, Failure is an event; its not a person. Dont let yourself become the victim, he said.

Hollis also said young professionals need to prepare themselves for the recovery, because thats when opportunity will present itself.

As we accelerate into this recovery, many of you are going to be asked to step up in a leadership role, he said. What youre going to learn in time is that effort times ability does equal those results that we talked about, but its going to be attitude thats a multiplier of those results. ... Attitude is a choice. You get to choose. And what Ill tell you is that in these times, people are looking to those leaders for stability and inspiration.

Like Trevor on Facebook and follow him on Twitter at @HowdyHawes.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  A flurry of recent legal activity could affect how 14 million registered Texas voters cast ballots in time for November's presidential election.

In New Orleans, a federal appeals court is set to re-examine the constitutionality of Texas' tough voter ID law, while the U.S. Supreme Court could decide whether it should still be enforced in the meantime. A separate lawsuit in San Antonio accuses Texas of defying federal voter "motor voter" rules.

The legal questions and timing of the cases are different, but all could have an impact on how Texans vote. Here are some answers to key questions about the cases.

___

Q: Where does Texas' voter ID law stand?

A: The New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will consider the state's 2011 law requiring voters show picture identification at the polls during a May 24 hearing.

A federal judge in Corpus Christi declared the law unconstitutional in October 2014, likening it to a poll tax and saying it had a discriminatory effect on poor and minority voters by making it more difficult for them to cast ballots.

Last year, a three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit Court found that the law violated parts of the federal Voting Rights Act, designed to prevent state and local governments from discriminating against minorities. But a majority of the 15-member court decided March 9 that the full court should consider the case, and the latest hearing date was set last week.

That's a potential blow for the Obama administration, which used the U.S. Justice Department to challengeTexas' law as a way to fight ballot-box restrictions passed by conservative statehouses nationwide. But topTexas officials are cheering their chance to defend a measure they say ensures the integrity of their state's elections.

___

Q: Aren't Texas voters already required to show ID?

A: Yes. The 2014 decision came so close to Election Day that a panel of the 5th Circuit ruled that Texas' voter ID law could be enforced that year to avoid voter confusion.

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld that order and it remains in effect. On Friday, though, the plaintiffs who originally challenged the law's constitutionality including Hispanic groups and U.S. Rep. Marc Veasy, a Democrat from Fort Worth  asked the nation's high court to block its enforcement for the November vote.

They argue that possible confusion surrounding the law ahead of the 2014 election stopped being relevant after balloting that year.

Texas should soon respond to that challenge, but there's not yet a timetable on when the Supreme Court may rule.

___

Q: How did we get this far?

A: Texas' law requires residents to show one of seven forms of approved identification, including concealed handgun licenses. But, unlike such laws passed in other states with conservative Legislatures, Texas' rules are especially strict because they don't recognize things like university IDs from college students.

Supporters say the law prevents electoral fraud, but opponents maintain that its true intent is to make voting tougher for older, poor and minority voters who tend to support Democrats and are less likely to have the state-mandated forms of identification.

While there have been anecdotal reports of adverse effects on Texas elections held while enforcing the law, there weren't widespread issues with people being unable to cast ballots because they lacked proper identification.

___

Q: Are there other legal challenges to voting in Texas?

A: Yes. A challenge filed in federal court in San Antonio on March 14 by the Texas Civil Rights Project alleged that the state is defying federal "motor voter" laws by failing to register voters who renew their driver's licenses online.

The suit includes a group of Texans who say they believed they had updated their voter registration information while using a Department of Public Safety driver's license website  and discovered that they'd failed to do so only when trying to vote, after it was too late to make the necessary changes.

The case is still in the early stages, but it alleges that Texas received more than 1,800 complaints from voters about similar issues from September 2013 to last May. State Attorney General Ken Paxton has said he believes Texas is in full compliance with the "motor voter" law, which is designed to make registration easier.
The PinkPrint rapper, Nicki Minaj, was not a happy camper over the weekend and the pint-sized sassy rapper angrily threw a security's guard's phone during a performance. Apparently, Minaj wanted everyone's undivided attention during her set in Dubai, and when she looked up to find the security guard off task, she silently resolved the issue.

On Friday [March.25] in Dubai, Minaj was noticeably upset when she promptly stopped midway through her performance of her hit song, "Feeling Myself," to angrily stalk across the stage with hand extended towards one of the security guards hired to manage the crowds. Minaj towered over the guard whose rapt attention lay with his phone as she silently demanded that he hand it over. On cue once he did, which Minaj threw across the stage before carrying on with her performance as though nothing happened.

A security guard was using his phone at a Nicki Minaj concert and..... pic.twitter.com/YXuhY6SEh5  Shady Music Facts (@musicnews_shade) March 26, 2016

Since coming on the scene, Minaj has always been outspoken about holding firm to her standards despite society portraying strong women in a negative light.

Back in 2010 in her My Life documentary, Minaj spoke about women getting a reputation for being a b*tch if considered too assertive.

She shares, "When I am assertive, I'm a b*tch. When a man is assertive, he's a boss. He bossed up. No negative connotation behind 'bossed up.' But lots of negative connotation behind being a b*tch. Donald Trump can say, 'You're fired.' Let Martha Stewart run her company the same way and be the same way. [People will say] 'F-ing old evil b*tch!' But Donald Trump, he gets to hang out with young b*tches and have 50 different wives and just be cool. 'Oh, Donald, we love you, Donald Trump!' " Minaj quips theatrically.

 2015 MusicTimes.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Rolling Stones recently had a concert in Cuba, claiming to make history being the first British rock n' roll act to perform a concert in the area after 15 years, but Manic Street Preachers are saying that this is not true.

On March 25, The Rolling Stones played in front of 500,000 people in Havana, which pleased the fans since Western music was banned in the area for decades and was lifted in 2001. They played their hit songs like "Angie" and "Jumpin' Jack Flash."

With that, frontman Mick Jagger along with band mates Keith Richards, Ronnie Wood and Charlie Watts said that the gig is "a landmark event," but according to Manic Street Preachers, they had played in Havana back in 2001. Hence, the group isn't the first to play in Cuba after the ban was lifted, NME reported.

The gig of the Welsh band in 2001 was attended by Cuban leader Fidel Castro and was even documented in the DVD Louder Than War.

"Had the strangest of dreams last night," the band wrote on a Twitter post on Saturday. "I was playing a free gig in Havana, Cuba at the Karl Marx Theatre 15 years ago!!!!!!!!xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx"

Aside from that, Billboard reported that Audioslave also performed a free concert in the area in 2005, which was filmed, Major Lazer also recently played in the city, and Juanes of Colombia also performed in front of about a million people in 2009. But the recent free concert of the Stones is the biggest by a British rock band.

The JA Digital-produced concert of The Stones was filmed for Eagle Rock, directed by Paul Dugdate, who also directed the Sweet Summer Sun -- Hyde Park Live DVD of the group in 2013. The concert was very successful despite being stopped by the Vatican because it was Holy Friday, as previously reported by Music Times.

Had the strangest of dreams last night-I was playing a free gig in Havana,Cuba at the Karl Marx Theatre 15 years ago!!!!!!!!xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx  ManicStreetPreachers (@Manics) March 26, 2016

 2015 MusicTimes.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
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Someone should sue the President for ...
President Obama was Mondays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words:

This week, our hearts are with the people of Belgium, as terrorist attacks claimed the lives of more than thirty people.

Yesterday, we learned that at least two Americans were killed. We pray for their families and loved ones. At least fourteen Americans were injured. And we pray for their full recovery  along with everyone else affected by these attacks.

Earlier this week, I called the Prime Minister of Belgium and offered him our full array of support in bringing to justice any terrorists involved in planning or aiding this unconscionable attack on innocent men, women, and children. Belgium is a close friend and ally of the United States. And when it comes to our friends, America has their back. Especially as we fight the scourge of terrorism.

More broadly, were going to continue to root out and defeat ISIL. Weve been taking out ISIL leadership, and this week, we removed one of their top leaders from the battlefield  permanently. A relentless air campaign  and support for forces in Iraq and Syria who are fighting ISIL on the ground  has allowed us to take approximately forty percent of the populated territory that ISIL once held in Iraq. Were supporting Iraqi Security Forces who are beginning to put pressure on the ISIL stronghold of Mosul. And we will not stop until ISILs safe-havens are destroyed.

Were also working to disrupt plots against the United States and against our friends and allies. A team of FBI agents is on the ground in Belgium supporting the investigation. Weve ramped up our intelligence cooperation so that we can root out ISILs operations. And we constantly review our homeland security posture to remain vigilant against any efforts to target the United States.

ISIL poses a threat to the entire civilized world. Thats why weve been leading a truly global coalition that will be vital to our success. Secretary Kerry is leading an international effort to bring the Syrian civil war to an end, a critical piece of restoring stability to that war-torn part of the world. And next week, dozens of world leaders will come here to Washington for a summit focused on nuclear security. Well use that opportunity to also review our joint efforts against ISIL, and to make sure the world remains united in this effort to protect our people.

As we move forward in this fight, we have to wield another weapon alongside our airstrikes, our military, our counterterrorism work, and our diplomacy. And thats the power of our example. Our openness to refugees fleeing ISILs violence. Our determination to win the battle against ISILs hateful and violent propaganda  a distorted view of Islam that aims to radicalize young Muslims to their cause. In that effort, our most important partners are American Muslims. Thats why we have to reject any attempt to stigmatize Muslim-Americans, and their enormous contributions to our country and our way of life. Such attempts are contrary to our character, to our values, and to our history as a nation built around the idea of religious freedom. Its also counterproductive. It plays right into the hands of terrorists who want to turn us against one another; who need a reason to recruit more people to their hateful cause.

I am a father. And just like any other parent, the awful images from Brussels draw my thoughts to my own childrens safety. Thats also why you should be confident that defeating ISIL remains our top military, intelligence, and national security priority.

We will succeed. The terrorists will fail. They want us to abandon our values and our way of life. We will not. They want us to give in to their vision of the future. We will defeat them with ours. Because we know that the future belongs not to those who seek only to destroy  but to those who have the courage to build.

Thanks.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning on AM 1450 KVML at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 AM.
Calaveras County Seal View Photos

San Andreas, CA  The Calaveras supervisors are gearing up for what promises to be a meeting reflective of strong patriotism and opinions.

Immediately following the Pledge of Allegiance, and brief announcements, the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors will officially recognize the 3.4 million who served during the nearly decade-long war that killed 58,220, physically wounded 304,000, and from which 1,700 are still listed as missing or killed in action on Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day, March 30. The board joins both US Congressional Houses and the State of California in officially recognizing these war heroes for their service and great sacrifice.

While not on the agenda, it is anticipated that members of the public will show to pipe up in response to a posting on the change.org website made this morning relating to a petition originated by Valley Springs resident Michael Magana earlier this month calling for the ouster of a public official. The posting asks petition supporters to come out in time for the public comment period at the beginning of the session to voice displeasure for the supervisors move last week to make amends for a crack against Mexicans made by District 4 Planning Commissioner Kelly Wooster at the commissions March 3 meeting that went viral on social media and became widely reported in Northern California media.

As previously reported here, last week, the supervisors adopted a proclamation by a 4-1 vote that chastised Wooster for his utterance but accepted his public apology, noting his past performance and service, and further proclaimed that all county public officials and staff would henceforth be required to participate in sensitivity training. This morning Maganas page (click here to view it) reports 982 supporters, unchanged from last week, with an announcement stating: The Board of Supervisors chose to adopt a proclamation last week to keep Mr. Wooster in his position as Planning Commissioner. Join others to continue to call for his removal tomorrow 3/29 during the evening Board of Supervisors meeting.

Among the slated regular agenda items, the board will get the latest update on Butte Fire Recovery efforts, which include that phase one of debris removal on participating homes within the burn scar is now complete. The supervisors will also receive presentations from proponents of the State of Jefferson and the nonpartisan Keep It California political action committee. The two groups are advocating opposing opinions about potential efforts to affect a legal split of certain Northern California and Southern Oregon counties from their respective states to form a new State.

Tomorrows meeting is an evening one, slated to begin at 5:30 in the government center supervisors chambers (891 Mountain Ranch Road).
Governor's Minimum Wage Plan View Photos

Sacramento, CA  As Governor Jerry Brown is leading the charge to increase Californias minimum wage to $15 an hour, many Republicans are coming out in opposition.

Brown pledged support of the plan this afternoon while surrounded by Democratic lawmakers and union leaders. He said, California is proving once again that it can get things done and help people get ahead. This plan raises the minimum wage in a careful and responsible way and provides some flexibility if economic and budgetary conditions change.

As you can see by clicking the graph in the upper left hand corner, the minimum wage would gradually increase from the current $10 up to $15 by 2022. Small businesses, with fewer than 25 employees, will receive an additional year to make the change.

Many leading Republican lawmakers are opposed to the plan. Local Board of Equalization Member George Runner argues, Contrary to conventional wisdom, this dramatic wage hike wont hurt millionaires and billionaires. It will hurt lower and middle class Californians, especially those who live in inner cities and rural areas. Entry-level and low-skilled workers, including young people, will find it more difficult to find jobs, pay for childcare, and eat out. Employers will hire fewer workers and instead turn to automation. In a state as economically and culturally diverse as California, its a shame that our elected officials dont realize that a one-size-fits-all approach to combating poverty wont work in our state. Not every city is San Francisco.

Assembly Republican leader Chad Hayes adds, Today, our communities are overwhelmed by the rising the cost of housing, energy, transportation and health care in California. This deal may help a small number of Californias workforce, but we are concerned that it will hurt many more by contributing to our states already high cost-of-living, making the California dream even less attainable for our middle class and low income families.

A provision in the plan allows for the Governor to pause the increase by September 1st of each year if there is a downturn in economic conditions.
I voted sticker View Photos

Sonora, CA  Two Mother Lode residents are planning to run against Congressman Tom McClintock, and three are in the race against Assemblyman Frank Bigelow.

The California Secretary of States Office has released a preliminary list of candidates for the upcoming June primary. It is noted that the list will officially be certified on April 1st. McClintock, the Republican incumbent, has two Democratic challengers. They are Robert Derlet, a physician from Twain Harte, and Sean White, a Solar Instructor/Author from San Andreas.

In the race for California Assembly District Five, Republican Frank Bigelow is seeking re-election, and he has two Democratic challengers and one that declines to state a party preference. The candidates are Democrats Robert Carabas of Twain Harte and Kai Ellsworth of Greenwood, and decline-to-state candidate Mark Belden of Mokelumne Hill.

The top two-candidates in the primary, regardless of party, will move on to the General Election.

Of note, there will not be a state Senate race this year, for voters in Tuolumne in Calaveras Counties, as Tom Berryhills term runs through 2018.
Gov. Scott has suspended Eatonville's mayor following Monday's indictment on voter fraud charges.

Mayor Anthony Grant, James Randolph and Mia Antionette Nowells were indicted Monday for voter fraud and bribery allegations regarding the town's election in March 2015.

Scott issued the executive order Tuesday, saying it was "in the best interests of the residents of the Town of Eatonville, and the citizens of the State of Florida, that Grant be immediately suspended from the public office that he now holds."

Grant's opponent, former Mayor Bruce Mount, accused Grant of bribing voters and absentee ballot fraud. An initial lawsuit was thrown out last year on a technicality.

A grand jury in Orange County indicted the three. They are accused of working together to illegally influence absentee voters.

Grant surrendered to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement after seeing the warrant Monday night. Randolph and Nowells were already in custody.



Grant walked out of jail just before 5 a.m. Tuesday. He was smiling and didn't have any comment other than he was planning to "take a shower and play golf."



Eatonville Mayor Anthony Grant bonded out of the Orange County Jail just before 5 a.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2016.

"We knew the numbers didn't add up, but after speaking to people or people coming to us with information," Mount said. "That's why we launched the investigation, so we knew it was some potential voter fraud."

Mount said the absentee numbers for last year's election stood out in a town with a population of about 2,500 people.



On the day of the four-person mayoral election, Mount received 80 votes. Grant received 70 votes.

Among absentee voters, however, Mount received 69, and Grant tallied 196.

Mount claimed the high number of absentee votes was unprecedented and suspicious.



"We're the oldest African-American community in America," Mount said. "We need to be setting precedent. We need to do things above water. If you run for election, you win above water. OK, so be it. Then you go and do something else or run again. But taking advantage of people is just not the American way."



The State Attorney's Office would not comment if the crimes impacted the election's outcome.

"Our purpose here wasn't to say who should or shouldn't be the mayor of Eatonville," State Attorney Jeff Ashton said. "That is not up to us. Our purpose is simply to explore whether the law was violated, and if we think it was enough to present to the grand jury and have the grand jury make the allegation."

The indictment against Grant includes 25 counts, 22 of which are third-degree felonies.

"Corruption in politics does exist, and it exists in Central Florida," FDLE Special Agent Danny Banks said. "However, it's important that we continually strive to weed out those corrupt officials."

This is not the first time Grant has been accused of voter fraud. He faced similar allegations back in 1991, but he was cleared of any wrongdoing in that case.
Tech company SquareTrade is expanding, and Orlando is the second home.

The San Francisco-based company deals in warranties, helping customers with concerns about their TVs, laptops and cell phones.

Warranties, before we started, were really a bad word, said Ahmed Khaishgi, SquareTrades Founder and CEO. Consumers used to go to a retail store. Thered be a pushy sales person, you couldnt leave the store. You felt bad. If you bought it, you felt dirty.

So, 15 years ago, the dad of three started SquareTrade, hoping to change the negative feeling associated with warranties.

The idea that protection doesnt have to be a horrible, terrible experience was one that consumers said, Youre right, he explained.

The company now works with most major retailers in the U.S., from Amazon to Costco. They will be adding Florida retailer Office Depot next month.

Last year, SquareTrade looked to expand from Silicon Valley and searched around the country. Other cities, like Oklahoma City and Phoenix, courted them. But, after talks with the Orlando Economic Development Commission, or EDC, SquareTrade picked the City Beautiful.

We looked at a bunch of cities. Frankly, Orlando was an easy one to work with, said Khaishgi. Theres a growing tech scene, there is great talent.

And there are incentives: According to the EDC, Orange County offered SquareTrade a QTI, or qualified tax incentive, for their high wage job creation; 31 jobs, with salaries close to $50,000, counted as high wage jobs.

SquareTrade did not say how much the wages would be for lower-level jobs.

The tech company also got a separate incentive, a reimbursement, if they went through a workforce training program.

When you think about all the places that Square Trade couldve gone for their second home, the competition was pretty stiff, said Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs.

On Monday, Jacobs, Gov. Rick Scott and other leaders gathered for the tech companys official inauguration. From the fourth floor of a high-rise off of Orange Blossom Trail, they touted the jobs SquareTrade created and the positive employee experience---as well as the bigger economic picture for the state.

Orlando is on a roll and the state is on a roll, said Scott, adding that the state has added over one million jobs in a little over five years.

The governor also said that unemployment in the state is down to 4.9 percent, and, thanks to legislature support, $1.2 billion has been cut in taxes over the past two years.

As for SquareTrades Khaishgi, his pride lies in looking around the 16,000 sq. ft. call center and mingling with his 120 employees. Hes looking to hire around 60 new employees in the coming months.

Its a great space. Everyone I talk to says, many of them worked in customer service jobs before and they say this is such a better place to work, he said, adding of the expansion, [Its] still my baby. Its like a kid going to college somewhere else. Still your kid.
A North Texas woman's diligent analysis of lottery numbers has paid off in a big way for her and four co-workers.

Shirley Stephens, 48, and four other U.S. Postal Service employees, who spend about $50 every two weeks on numbers Stephens said she conjures through instinct and analysis, hit the $66 million jackpot Saturday. The combination was 12-18-29-39-40 and Bonus Ball 44.
The Plainview Rotary Club honored three Plainview High School students for their perfect attendance. Shown are Rotarian Susie Starnes (left), Jayden Brush, Laura Montoya, Rotarian Charles Starnes, Macie Mayberry and Rotarian Danny Wrenn. The three winners each received an iPod. They were selected randomly from the more than 90 PHS students who had perfect attendance over the last six weeks. The Rotary Club provides the iPods as an incentive to promote school attendance among all junior and senior high students in Plainview ISD.
BRUSSELS  The bomb maker, the transporter, the landlord and the cipher. The four men slipped away after the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris, and all but one reappeared as key figures in the Islamic State cell that went on to attack Brussels.



Two are dead, one is captured, and the fate of the fourth remains a mystery.



Who lives and who dies in an attack can provide crucial clues to how terrorist cells are structured, demonstrating who is considered disposable and who is crucial for the next job. That status can be fleeting, as the two attacks show that someone considered vital in one operation may be sacrificed in another.



Some of the figures in the Paris plot had become cannon fodder by the time of the Brussels attacks, said Nicolas Henin, a journalist held hostage by Islamic State for 10 months.



Once they had performed their services in Paris, they were considered expendable, he wrote. That is how (the Islamic State group) works in terms of human resources.



The bomb maker



With a newly minted degree in mechanical engineering, Najim Laachraoui left for Syria in February 2013  a relatively early departure in the wave of Belgians who have traveled to fight with the extremists.



He returned home 2 years later as an expert in urban explosives, bearing a fake Belgian ID and an alias: Soufiane Kayal. On Sept. 9, 2015, police at the Austro-Hungarian border briefly stopped a Mercedes in which he was traveling and sent him on his way. In the car with him were Salah Abdeslam and another Islamic State recruit with a fake Belgian ID.



None of the three fired a shot in Paris the night of Nov. 13, but all played key roles in making it happen.



Laachraouis job was to manufacture the TATP explosives and the suicide vests. His DNA was found on one of the vests that detonated inside the Bataclan concert hall as well as one that blew up outside Frances national stadium. The man himself was nowhere to be found.



Thirteen days later, that same DNA was found in a safe house in Belgian town of Auvelais, and authorities soon linked the name Kayal to another apartment in nearby Charleroi, where some of the November attackers had stayed before traveling convoy-style to Paris. They didnt, however, connect the alias to Laachraoui.



The cell, meanwhile, appears to have found another place for the smelly, dangerous process of making TATP: a top-floor flat in the Brussels suburb of Schaerbeek. In hiding, at least one experienced bomb maker kept busy.



Criminals like TATP because its relatively easy to acquire its ingredients, but the manufacturing process is volatile. In 1995, a plot to assassinate the pope and President Bill Clinton unraveled when a makeshift TATP lab in Manila caught fire, drawing the attention of authorities.



Without a real laboratory, the bomb maker would have needed tremendous care and steady nerves  as well as massive amounts of ice to cool a noxious solution prone to catching fire, with windows wide open to avoid being overcome by the fumes.



It appears the cell was up to the task. In the Schaerbeek apartment, there was enough TATP for three massive suitcase bombs  15 to 20 kilograms each, experts say. There were also 15 kilograms left over and enough base materials to make 100 kilograms more, said Jimmie Oxley, a University of Rhode Island chemistry professor who specializes in explosives.



A master bomb maker may be in play here, Oxley said.



But when it came time to carry out the plot, Laachraouis career in building bombs came to an abrupt end. On Tuesday, he was one of three men who wheeled suitcases packed with explosives into the departures hall of Brussels Airport. Laachraoui and his companion wore black, down to the single glove on their left hands believed to have concealed their detonators. The third attacker wore white, a distinctive hat slightly askew as he pushed the one load that would not kill.



Why Laachraoui had gone from bomb maker to suicide bomber remains unclear. Had the group found a replacement? Had he become too much of a liability as police closed in on his trail? The answer remains a mystery.



Its strange, said Patrick Skinner, a former CIA case officer who is now with the Soufan Group security firm. They dont have a shortage of people that are willing to become a walking bomb, but theres always a shortage of talent. Its like having General Eisenhower lead the charge at D-Day. Its possible but it seems to be a supreme waste of talent.



The transporter



Salah Abdeslam drove thousands of miles across Europe over months, collecting accomplices, scouting locations and buying equipment. He rented apartments and cars and, on the night of Nov. 11, drove toward Paris with another onetime petty criminal and boyhood friend, Mohamed Abrini. The two were spotted together in a Renault Clio at a service station along the highway linking Paris and Brussels.



Abdeslam ditched the car in northern Paris and is believed to have discarded his unexploded suicide vest south of the city. And he called on two friends from Brussels Molenbeek neighborhood to drive through the night and pick him up. By then, Abdeslams older brother Brahim was dead, the only victim of the suicide blast that demolished a bar in central Paris.



He has a personality that is more complex than the terrorist automaton who is just there to blow himself up, Marc Trevedic, Frances former anti-terrorist judge, told BFM television. Not fragile, but complex.



But it may have been more than second guessing that kept Abdeslam alive that night and for the four months he spent hiding among friends back in Brussels.



I think he had no desire to die, and he had other things to do, said Nathalie Goulet, a French senator and co-president of a commission that studied the jihadi networks now terrorizing Europe. They escape, they gather back home, they resume, because thats their job.



Abdeslam was flushed out on March 15, when police went to search what they thought was a vacant apartment in the Forest neighborhood of Brussels and instead were sprayed with gunfire. One man wielding a Kalashnikov held officers at bay as two others bolted across rooftops to safety. One of them was Salah Abdeslam. The second man remains unidentified.



One or both were important enough that the gunman kept firing until he was killed by a police sniper. Inside the apartment  rented by the same man who exactly a week later would detonate his explosives in the Brussels metro  was an Islamic State banner, shells and a book on Salafist Islam, the austere strain linked to the group.



But Abdeslams days of freedom were numbered. By March 18, police had traced him to another hideout  this time just around the corner from his childhood home in Molenbeek. He was shot in the leg as he tried to escape yet again. In the four days between his capture and the blasts that shook Brussels, he made no mention of a new plot afoot, nor did he explain his role in the Paris attacks, beyond what Belgian and French media described as blanket denials of responsibility or close ties to the attackers.



The landlord



Khalid El Bakraoui was another man with an alias and a warrant out for his arrest. He and his brother Ibrahim were known criminals, bank robbers and car thieves with a string of convictions between them.



Interpol issued an international warrant for his arrest in December  soon after it was discovered he had rented the Charleroi apartment that served as a departure point for some of the Paris killers.



It took investigators until Dec. 9 to track down that safe house  enough time that El Bakraoui was again entrusted with scouting locations for the networks growing number of accomplices and possibly for a new attack. Belgian media say the brothers had video of the home of a senior official at a nuclear waste facility in the Flanders region.



It was El Bakraoui who rented the Forest safe house and was seen leaving the Schaerbeek apartment that served as the explosives warehouse for Tuesdays attacks.



But he apparently ensured that his own home was scrubbed clean of links to Islamic State or the attacks. On Wednesday morning, investigators searched the homes of the El Bakraoui brothers and came up empty.



By then, the brothers were dead, Khalid in the Maelbeek metro station, his brother at the airport. When shown a photo of the brothers, Abdeslam claimed he did not know them.



The cipher



Mohamed Abrini, a 31-year-old Belgian petty criminal and boyhood friend of the Abdeslams, is believed to have traveled early last summer to Syria, a short trip to the country where his younger brother died in 2014 in Islamic States notorious francophone brigade.



But that wasnt his only international travel. He went multiple times to Birmingham, England, meeting with several men suspected of terrorist activity, according to a European security official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to provide details on the investigation. He said the meetings, including one later last summer, took place in several locations, including cafes and apartments.



Abrinis role in the subsequent weeks and months while the Paris attackers were coming together has never been clarified. He has been on the run since the Nov. 13 attacks but never resurfaced after the emergence of the surveillance video placing him in the convoy with the attackers headed to Paris. Like Abdeslam, he had ties to Abdelhamid Abbaoud, the charismatic ringleader of the Paris attacks who died in a police standoff on Nov. 18.



He is the last identified suspect still at large from the November attacks.



Other suspects



But there are suspects at large from the Brussels attacks. The man in the hat who accompanied the airport attackers and another man who led Khalid into the subway and drove a gray Audi that was spotted by surveillance cameras, according to a European security official, who was not permitted to speak publicly about spoke about the footage. Belgian media reported that the man missing from the airport was among those arrested Friday  a new name in a web that seems to expand by the day.



What is interesting here is the presence of watchmen  the guy in white seen next to the two bombers at the airport and the driver of the bomber who attacked the subway line, said the official. He said he believed it was significant that no one with operational links and knowledge of the chain of command was thought to be alive.



But that interpretation may be the optimistic one, said Skinner, the former CIA case worker.



They are more resilient than you would want and that youd ever expect, and they have more people who know what they are doing, he said.



Claude Moniquet, a French former intelligence officer who works in Brussels, said there were two possibilities for the men on the run: One is that they are the shattered remnants of a cell that has lost its access to explosives and weapons, and lacks contact with any other Islamic State operatives in Europe. The other is more menacing.



They could try to reach those other cells, and we will find them another day in another terrorist action somewhere in Europe, Moniquet said.



Soon after the bombs went off in Brussels, French authorities renewed their arrest bulletin for Abrini. Identifying features: Unknown. Clothing: Unknown. Vehicle: Unknown.







Hinnant reported from Paris. Paisley Dodds in London and Lorne Cook, Raphael Satter and Raf Casert in Brussels also contributed to this report.






Cullen/Frost Bankers Inc. Chairman and CEO Richard Dick W. Evans Jr., is retiring Thursday with at least $73.1 million in company stock and pension benefits after 45 years with the bank, according to a regulatory filing released on Monday.

Evans owns more than 1.1 million of the San Antonio companys shares, held either directly or through partnerships, that are currently worth almost $64 million, based on Mondays closing price of $56.67. The present value of Evans various pensions total almost $9.1 million, the regulatory filing shows. Evans started as a commercial loan officer at Frost Bank in 1971 and spent the last 18 years at the helm of the banks holding company Cullen/Frost.
Federal agents rounded up more than 1,000 people, with 25 in San Antonio, in an operation targeting gang members, including a member of the Gulf Cartel.

From Feb. 15 to March 21, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents worked with state, local and federal authorities to arrest suspected gang members, the agency announced Monday. Most of those detained were U.S. citizens with outstanding warrants, according to the news release.
Easter Sunday was sunny in San Antonio, but the coming week could bring thunderstorms on Wednesday and possible showers on Friday.

There might be a threat of some stronger storms starting Wednesday evening but its probably too early to say right now, said Constantine Pashos, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
Reuters is reporting on a unique Mexican Easter tradition that has been influenced by U.S. politics this year. In the Mexico City neighborhood of La Merced, hundreds gathered for the annual burning in effigy of Judas Iscariot, yet this time Donald Trump was the special guest of honor.

The report notes hundreds cheered and yelled "death" to the effigy of Trump as it burst into flames.
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Masked gunmen for a waning Mexican drug cartel hold their weapons in an apparent show of strength in photos leaked by a blog that follows cartel activity.

RELATED: Alleged member of cartel-affiliated gang killed West Texas police officer in crash

El Blog del Narco published photos of assassins belonging to the La Linea gang, the enforcement wing of the Juarez Cartel, posing with weapons and hanging out of SUVs.

A declassified DEA report shows that the Juarez Cartel and La Linea organization now operate primarily in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, though the report shows the Sinaloa cartel controls the state's southern region.

Another declassified DEA report detailing cartel activity found that the cartel is most dominant in Arizona and West Texas.

There, the cartel has allied with the El Paso-based Barrio Azteca gang, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

RELATED: Fugitive Gulf cartel boss nicknamed 'Ewok' arrested in Mexico after years of trafficking in Texas

However, Mike Vigil, former DEA chief of international operations, told mySA.com in June that the Juarez cartel is in decline and that La Linea is becoming a splinter group.

That decline has been partially attributed to the 2014 arrest of cartel leader Vicente Carrillo Fuentes and the occupation of Juarez by the Sinaloa Cartel, headed by Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman.

The Sinaloa cartel also dominates the city of Cuauhtemoc and municipality of Ahumada, according to the DEA, both nestled in territory ostensibly controlled by the Juarez cartel.

RELATED: Feds: Suspects in North Texas slaying of ex-Mexican drug cartel lawyer tied to 12 other killings

The decline of the Juarez cartel has also contributed to the dwindling of the Barrio Azteca gang's influence in Texas: DPS cited the Juarez cartel's diminished standing as a contributing factor to the agency's decision to downgrade the threat posed by the gang in their annual gang assessment in 2015.

jfechter@mySA.com

Twitter: @JFreports
Rosalia De La Cruz Martinez didnt have children of her own, but she helped build a thriving family. Living next door to her sister, she nurtured her siblings children.

She had a big role in raising us, nephew Arthur Cavazos said.

She had a lot of nieces and nephews; two brothers and they had kids. There were always kids over there, he said.

De La Cruz Martinez died Wednesday from congestive heart failure at 91.

"When we were little visiting on the front porch on cool summer nights she would tell us stories about the old days," Cavazos said.

She was a small framed woman who ate like a bird and had a strong work ethic, he said.

More Information Rosalia De La Cruz Martinez Born: Dec. 13, 1924, Pearsall Died: March 23, 2016, San Antonio Preceded by: Parents Vicente and Alberta (Jimenez) De La Cruz; husband Isidro Martinez; brothers Juan De La Cruz and Pilar De La Cruz; sister Alicia Cavazos. Survived by: Brother Vicente De La Cruz, Jr.; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and godchildren. See More Collapse

De La Cruz Martinez, born to Vicente and Alberta De La Cruz in Pearsall, spent most of her life in her hometown.

She started working at the Red & White Grocery Store, owned by the Grady L. Roberts family, in 1942.

De La Cruz Martinez worked as a checker, cashier, and bookkeeper, moving with the store in 1953 when it relocated to North Pearsall and changed its name to the Roberts Model Market.

"Everyone knew her as Rosie; people would come in to shop and cash their paychecks," Cavazos said.

She married Isidro Martinez on Oct. 15, 1961. He was a cook for many years at the downtown Pearsall Cactus Bowl, which was within walking distance to the Roberts' store.

Cavazos remembered his aunt as being punctual, frugal and a hard worker. He attributes her ethics to hard lessons she learned during World War II.

She still had ration books from that time, he said, adding that she was a big collector of S&H Green Stamps, which customers received from stores and gas stations and redeemed for merchandise.

Frank Padilla, former Red & White Grocery Store manager, also attested to her frugality and work ethic.

"When she was in charge of cashiers, if a checker turned in a cash drawer that was short a couple of pennies, she would make the person start counting all over again to make sure the amount was not simply miscounted, he said.

De La Cruz Martinez continued to work at the store even after Super S Grocery Stores bought the Robertses out.

My aunt retired in 1991, after 49 years, niece Rosario De La Cruz said.

Her employment ended, but she never tired of being there for her family.

Elvia Cavazos, wife of Arthur Cavazos, said she thanked De La Cruz Martinez while she was still alive for helping to raise her husband.

He would not be what he is today if she had not assisted him, she said. All those children were her kids; that lady trained him, Elvia Cavazos said.

iwilgen@express-news.net
One inevitable sequel to a terrorist attack is seeing the ugly mugs of creeps-turned-monsters thrust before us over a multitude of news cycles. Another is a debate over cellphone encryption.

Encryption is a means of turning information into secret code. Terrorists communicate through encrypted devices to hide their plans and protect the identities of their co-conspirators. For obvious reasons, law enforcement wants to know whats being said and to whom.

The FBI had been demanding that Apple turn over an encryption key to crack the iPhone used by San Bernardino gunman Syed Rizwan Farook. Apple has refused, arguing that helping the FBI hack Farooks iPhone would put the privacy of other iPhone users in jeopardy. That would be bad for business.

Apples case has always been morally and legally flawed, but now it may be moot. Thats because on the very day of the terrorist outrage in Brussels, the Justice Department announced it may now be able to get the information in Farooks iPhone without Apples input.

An unidentified third party reportedly has found a way to hack the phone. That method is being tested to ensure that it doesnt destroy the valuable data in the process.

If it succeeds, Apple will have lost in three ways. No. 1: Consumers are no longer assured that iPhone data is invulnerable. No. 2: By forcing others to find a means of cracking an iPhone, Apple loses control over the process. And No. 3: Apple is left with having fought the bad fight.

All that good will Apple has amassed for its wonderful products could start draining away as Americans wonder what side its on. The rampage in San Bernardino took 14 lives and grievously injured 22 others. Survivors and relatives of the dead have protested Apples defense of a mass murderers cellphone data. Thats definitely bad for business.

Suppose Belgian investigators cleaning up the body parts came across an encrypted iPhone of a terrorist impressed by Apples promise of privacy. Would Apple refuse to help uncover accomplices in that bloodbath, as well?

Some argue that Farooks iPhone 5c is easier to crack than the newer iPhones. Does Apple now want to bet that hacking the iPhone 6 or a later model cant be done by a highly talented geek?

The Justice Departments legal basis for requiring Apple to unlock an encrypted device is the 1789 All Writs Act. The law applies only if compliance is not an unreasonable burden. Apple claims invading Farooks iPhone would be unreasonably burdensome.

With a search warrant based on probable cause, law enforcement may barge into your home, break into your metal file cabinets and look in your underwear drawer. (For further information, consult some Law & Order reruns.)

Ones cellphone is not a sacred space. Mobile phone users worried that police doing a warranted search might come across their third-graders math scores or a prescription for Viagra should not put such data onto their gadget in the first place.

The concern in Apples boardroom and elsewhere in Silicon Valley is that governments less constrained by civil liberties than ours would demand the key to breaking the encryption. They already do, but thats between the companies and the other countries. Its really not the American publics problem  unless you want to argue that tech company profits trump national security.

Apples position was insupportable. Now it may be irrelevant. A wise move for those in the tech industry would be to quietly work out some accommodation with law enforcement in the halls of Congress. Rest assured, they wont want to hold such discussions in the heat of another, even more devastating terrorist attack.

fharrop@gmail.com
Re: Against themselves, Your Turn, March 13:

The letter writer states the GOP is against virtually everything that helps people. He apparently didnt take civics in high school. It is not the primary role of the government to provide these benefits to the people, which apparently is what he and most Democrats think.

In the U.S., we are free to live virtually anywhere, work in any job, and make any amount of wages for which we qualify. The primary role of the government is to provide for the common defense (national security) and promote the general welfare. Nowhere in our Constitution does it say to provide for the general welfare.

We live in a society that guarantees abundant freedoms, freedom to drive thousands of miles without restraint, from San Diego to Bangor or from Miami to Seattle, and not have to pass through a checkpoint or show an ID card. This is unheard of in most countries.

If the letter writer wants to live in a nanny state where the government provides (and controls) everything, he should move to another country  and not try and change ours.

Jim Jones, Leon Valley

Still the party of no

Surely you remember the Nov. 17, 2014, Time magazine with Mitch McConnells face on the cover and CHANGE in bold letters. Mitch and Republican leaders promised to cooperate and work with Democrats.

Well, for the last two years, these Republicans have done the opposite, obstructing and sabotaging President Barack Obama every step of the way.

And, of course, everyone remembers when Senate Majority Leader McConnell said he was going to teach the GOP a new word, yes. We now know the party of no had no intention of honoring this promise.

Sen. McConnell is leading the Republican charge to block Obama from his constitutional duty of selecting a new Supreme Court justice to replace Antonin Scalia.

Still have any doubts that the GOP and the party of no are one and the same?

Ron Lowe, Harlingen

Inability to lead

Apparently, Sen. Mitch McConnell and his followers do not understand the will of the U.S. electorate, which voted President Barack Obama to two terms. The people want his nominees to be fairly considered for the Supreme Court.

Senators who fail to act set an example of cowardice and an inability to lead this great country. Fear of being judged for voting the wrong way is not why voters send senators to Congress. Do your job.

Joellen de Berg, Boerne

Bound for England?

No matter who wins the election, we will see the same old pattern.

I have voted for 60 years. I have listened for 60 years. I have voted for both parties at different times during these years. I am to the point where I wish I lived in England.

I think we should have someone in office who does not owe anyone any political favors, who hasnt lived in the political family, hasnt lied about email use. Do we deserve better? I think so. We are all people living within our incomes, providing for our families and others without the perks that come to elected individuals.

Think about this, America.

Marlene C. Michaels, New Braunfels

Minefield of words

Re: Let reader know what you mean, John Eubanks, Another View, March 14:

Thank you, Mr. Eubanks! This column should be required reading in every journalism class and by everyone who writes for the public and speaks in public.

Almost everyone misplaces modifiers. People dont realize what they are really saying when they throw the words in just anywhere. The modifier has to go next to what it is modifying. So simple! And they need to learn the difference between who and that, insure and ensure, infant and toddler. You cannot be an infant toddler.

Dont rely on spell-checker, either. Many times, the spelling is correct but the wrong word is used. A while back, a political article suddenly mentioned the Maryland ballet. After a while in the Twilight Zone, I figured out it must have meant the Maryland ballot.

Reading the newspaper nowadays is a puzzle. Just last week, one business writer who had always been clear before had an article so mixed up I had to give up reading it. Words get omitted, extra meaningless words are thrown in. These prove that machines should not take over for human effort.

Writers, please read every word of your article just like we will. Proofreaders (do you still exist?), please be more thorough so you publish a product to make your team proud.

Rosalind Hassell

Illegal status

Most of the articles in your paper and other media are missing the word illegal when the word immigration is used to describe people entering our country.

These people are violating our laws, and they have the gall to sue us because they are not given proper housing or medical attention. I believe if the word illegal is used as an adjective before the word immigration, it would best describe their illegal status, dont you think?

Oscar Ahumada, Floresville

Road hazards

Why are there so many bad drivers in San Antonio? Do drivers not understand good driving practices, or do they simply not care?

It is impossible to drive more than five minutes without witnessing cellphone use while driving, speeding, failure to use turn signals, tailgating, weaving across busy highway lanes to pass slow vehicles (those obeying the speed limit), ignoring painted left-turn lane markings, driving the wrong way in parking lot lanes marked with directional arrows, etc.

Traffic laws are requirements, not simply suggestions to be followed only when convenient.

Bill Erichson
It was a winters afternoon, just before Christmas. I was with a family who had been in a battle against a disease that was threatening to take their Moms life. It happened after a conversation with the doctor, the news was not good, and the doctor did a masterful and compassionate job of sharing the medical realities with the family. Visiting shortly after and talking with them about what they had just heard I witnessed it firsthand  hope slipped away.

Hope slipped away. Hope is the belief that something good is right around the corner. This familys hope had been hanging on the results of a recent CT scan. They had prayed, asked their church families to pray, they were trusting God for the best case scenario for Mom and had prayed hard against the worst case that the doctor had spoken to them about a few weeks earlier; but the news was of the worst.

Hope slipped away. Mom was going to die, short of an absolute miracle; Mom would not live to see the summer of 2016. She would be kept comfortable, the doctor said she wouldnt suffer much, that the nature of her condition generally resulted in growing weakness and that most simply slipped away quietly.

Hope slipped away. Mom wouldnt see her oldest granddaughter walk down the aisle in August, she would never know the joy of holding her first grandchild, and there would never again be a happy meal around her table in the kitchen on the farm where she had raised her children and where so many wonderful family gatherings had been hosted.

What was this hope that had slipped away? It was a hope focused on this world, on this life, on more of the wonderful family love that had been so much a part of this familys life. It was a hope tied to the here and now, a hope that was not able to look beyond the veil we know as death. For some families, that is the only hope they have. Despite a recent poll that stated that 72% of Canadians still believe in a god, for many that belief does not give them hope beyond this world.

Part of the reason is that many that ascent to a gods existence, have little idea what or who god is, what god does and how one relates to god. The idea of a nameless, formless, cosmic possibility is not comforting. Many who contend that they believe in a god derive no hope whatsoever in this belief. Hope beyond this temporal existence doesnt exist for many folks.

Hope slips away when our faith in a god is a nebulous, unspecified, impersonal concept. This hope is not the reality for people that believe in the God who claims to be the one and only. It is a bold claim to make for sure and those who believe the claim have to accept it purely by faith, but when they do, they receive a hope that is timeless, not bound by earthly circumstances or earthly existence, it is a hope that reaches beyond this material and temporal experience we call life, a hope anchored in eternity.

But the hope that will not slip away is a powerful thing. I have watched it embolden young and old in the face of death. The bible calls it the hope that does not disappoint. Thats the kind of hope I have come to know, that has carried me through many troubling days. It can be yours as well, it can carry you through whatever difficulties you face now or in the future. But we need to do more than believe in the existence of a god; we need to trust without reservation in the only true God who has existed always and who loves us.
Its frustrating to see a group that is dedicated to good causes, and has chosen a deserving target, go off the rails in trying to make its case. Worse, like minded individuals who are hungry for backup for their beliefs, and who cite half-baked studies play into a stereotype that the Powers That Be are keen to promote: Those who deny that we are living in the best of all possible worlds dont know what they are talking about.

Todays object lesson is a report by Oxfam, Extreme Wealth is Not Merited by Oxfam. Author Didier Jacobs works through some assumptions (more on that shortly) and comes to the implausibly precise estimate that 74% of American billionaires wealth comes from rent seeking (oddly, the chart from which you can compute that result is in the webpage summarizing the paper but not the paper proper). And mind you, there are good efforts on this front. Later this week, well discuss a recent paper on inequality that hasnt gotten the attention it deserves that is much more careful and more important, points to concrete policy measures.

This isnt the first report by Oxfam on wealth that has been criticized for simplistic-to-the-point-of-being-misleading statistics.

Now of course, its not hard to agree that a sizable portion of the current top wealth comes from rent extraction of various sorts, given the correlation in time frames between deregulation, greatly weakened anti-trust enforcement, and the dramatic rise in concentration of wealth and incomes in the US. But just because a piece of work confirms ones prior beliefs does not mean its sound.

This report has such significant conceptual flaws that its better to address them than get down in the weeds of lower-level issues.

Estimating how much income or wealth comes from rent extraction is an impossible exercise. Oxfam was beaten before it started. Even if you could get the right data, how do you draw the line between supposedly virtuous profit-seeking versus rent extraction? Lets start with your cable bill. Some portion of that does represent the actual cost of the service, an adequate return on capital and justifiable profit margin. But even figuring that out is not trivial. And then you need to aggregate that across companies and industries and figure out how that maps into the wealth of the richest.

At a higher level of abstraction, having a business that achieves sustainable profits over time entails creating or exploiting market inefficiencies. Perfectly efficient markets generate thin to no profit. Now creating profitable niches can create wins for the customer, like putting a convenience store on a freeway, where people will pay a ridiculous amount for a soda or a candy bar or gas because the next opportunity is a hundred mile away because they need whatever they need now and accept that running a store in the middle of nowhere doesnt have the greatest economics even with those high prices. Another example is a fashion designer that creates a particular look that appeals to a group of customers who come to buy clothes from that designer regularly. But most large-scale enterprises benefit from all sorts of subsidies, which raises the question of whether what they give (in terms of price, product/service quality and taxes and fees paid to the government) is fair? Its doubtful that one can set a clear boundary even in narrow cases.

And even when companies engage in abuses of market power, like requiring customers to sign agreements that have them give up their right to litigate, how do you determine what that is worth in any particular case?

Rentier activity is a lot like pornography: hard to define in a way you can operationalize, but you know it when you see it.

This conundrum illustrates why almost always a bad idea to try to come up with single point estimates of complex phenomena. If you do attempt to put metrics on them, its better to measure what you can measure reasonably well, paramaterize other important issues as best you can, and make qualitative conclusions.

One example of why this exercise is fraught: While the paper shows estimates of what percent of activities of various industries come from rents, the industry definitions are so broad as to be meaningless. What is finance? That ranges from useful but somewhat overpriced retail banking to socially useful lending and capital raising to generally excessive secondary market trading (other economic studies have found the resources devoted to trading are to the detriment of economic growth). Yet even though too much in the way of economic resources goes into casino capitalism, it does not follow that your discount brokerage account enables some rent-seeker on the other side (as in rent-seeking is a subseet of socially unproductive and that might have been the better frame of reference).

Moreover, there are other issues with how finance is categorized. The Oxfam report does correctly, based on other research, depict it as heavily subsidized by government. It fails to consider the fact that finance has gotten more than occasionally been involved in criminal activity, such as money-laundering and bid rigging (both on mass scales), mortgage and foreclosure fraud, and debt collection abuses.

And the report omits that the biggest winners, in terms of entry into the billionaires club, have been hedge fund and private equity fund managers. They enjoy massive tax subsidies, something the report fails to mention.

Now the paper could still have approached this exercise with the modesty that befits what they sought to achieve versus the limited means (data and resources) they had to devote to this exercise. Theres still merit in exercises meant to stimulate more research and debate. But this article reaches conclusions that are far too firm for the nature of the exercise.

The article reinforces the shibboleth of meritocracy. This is simply stunning. Jacobs states the he is putting aside theories of social justice and accepts the framing of Greg Manikw, that no one objects when wealth is perceived to have been fairly earned:

My sense is that people are rarely outraged when high incomes go to those who obviously earned them. When we see Steven Spielberg make blockbuster movies, Steve Jobs introduce the iPod, David Letterman crack funny jokes, and J.K. Rowling excite countless young readers with her Harry Potter books, we dont object to the many millions of dollars they earn in the process

This happens to be a US perspective on this matter. Most of rest of the world does not treat the workings of capitalism or the wealthy with the same reverence as Americans. Its not hard to understand that many people work hard and have talent, yet only a few stumble into the circumstances that allow for them to earn exceptional, or even very good, incomes.

Mind you, Jacobs is not using meritocracy as a straw man. He astonishingly asserts that the economy operates on a meritocratic basis.except for the really rich (and those stuck in poverty traps:

Market pay does generally reflect talent, effort, and risk-takingbut not at the extremes. For all the imperfections of our market economies and of the government policies that underpin them, middle-class people are roughly compensated on merit: an architect who is marginally better than another is likely to earn marginally more, and likewise for most professions and trade.

In other words, Jacobs framing does not just unwittingly reinforce meritocracy as attainable attainable and desirable. He claims, with no foundation, that many peoples pay reflects what they are worth.

Yet as we discussed at length in a 2006 article in The Conference Board Review, meritocracy is unachievable. Its a myth that legitimizes disparities in income and status. As we wrote:

The Illusion of Meritocracy

OK, so diversity programs may not serve the people they are designed to help. One of the reasons is that these initiatives are assumed to undermine merit-based hiring and promotion. Indeed, as Barres points out, citing research, When it comes to bias, it seems that the desire to believe in a meritocracy is so powerful that until a person has experienced sufficient career-harming bias themselves they simply do not believe it exists. But the idea that an organization can be truly meritocratic is, alas, a fiction. On a practical level, the best a company can hope for is that, taken as a whole, the people it hires and promotes are betteras defined by the companythan the people it rejects. On an individual level, the role of luck, combined with inherent shortcomings of performance-appraisal systems, make it impossible to have confidence in the fairness and accuracy of any particular staffing decision. Now, for most people, its well nigh impossible to pick apart the importance of ability versus good fortune. Yet early career decisions and moves often have an arbitrary element (a young person takes a rotation into a new area that takes off, or has a bad run of assignments and gets discouraged) that can influence later career success. Other factors can thwart an organizations meritocratic efforts (many of these observations derive from a 1992 paper by Patrick D. Larkey and Jonathan P. Caulkin, All Above Average and Other Unintended Consequences of Performance Appraisal Systems). Many people, for instance, run up against conflicts between individual and organizational interests. Implicitly, any employees job is to serve his boss, when his check is actually being cut by the company. If the employee views his role as being different than his boss sees it, the bosss view prevails, whether or not it is correct. In an extreme case, if the boss wants the employee to run personal errands, and the employee refuses, he runs the risk of getting a negative review. Theres the Peter Principle conundrum that the skill requirements at one level may bear little relationship to the demands of the next. Youve heard the old chestnut, Promote your best salesman, and you lose a good salesman and gain a lousy manager. But this situation puts bosses in a real bind. If you promote the person who is best in a department, his skills may fall woefully short of the requirements of his new role. But if you promote the person you deem best suited for that job, and not the top performer at his current role, you will demoralize his former peers, create resentment against him (undermining his authority and effectiveness), and raise questions about your judgment. And then there are difficulties in ranking employees across organizational units. Even though organizations want consistent ratings firmwide, its a practical impossibility. There are considerable barriers to a manager giving his staff member honest and useful feedback that lead to inflated ratings. They have an ongoing relationship; and thus both sides do not want the review process to create friction. Yet most employees have an inflated view of their achievements, which predisposes them to doubt, perhaps even resent, a truthful appraisal. And since the assessment of a job of any complexity is largely subjective, its difficult forthe boss to defend a rating that is at odds with the employees self-assessment. In addition, managers consider themselves at least partly responsible for their subordinates performance. Thus a low rating reflects badly on them. The consequences are profound. It means that the typical defense against the failure to achieve diversity, that the company was in fact hiring and promoting based on achievement, is hollow. These systems not only are subjective (inherent to most ratings) but also often lead to capricious, even unfair results. And there is evidence that subjective processes set a higher bar for minorities and women. For example, a 1997 Nature paper by Christine Wenneras and Agnes Wold, Nepotism and Gender Bias in Peer-Review, determined that women seeking research grants need to be 2.5 times more productive than men to receive the same competence score. In 1999, MIT published the results of a five-year, data-driven study that found that female faculty members in its School of Science experienced pervasive discrimination, which operated through a pattern of powerful but unrecognized assumptions and attitudes that work systematically against female faculty even in the light of obvious good will. So here you have the worst of all pos sible worlds. You want to achieve diversity, if for no other reason than to forestall lawsuits and present a better face to your customers. Yet you have long believed the main reason is that you havent been able to find enough talented members of the various groups to fill out your managerial ranks. But your performance-appraisal system is subjective and probably unreliable, and the complex nature of organizations means that who rises is largely arbitrary, and it is likely that out groups are subject to higher performance standards. All this to say that women and minorities frustration at their failure to achieve reasonable representation may well be completely justified. Your organization may be guilty as charged.

Mind you, if it is impossible within an organization, even assuming diligent and well-intentioned management, to achieve meritocracy, how can it possibly be a reasonable expectation across society?

A key analytical framework is hopelessly flawed. This is how Jacobs sets his hierarchy of rent extraction:

First, these categories are analytically sloppy. Even though they include many of the explanations given for inequality, they arent even close to a mutually exclusive, collectively exhaustive list of opportunities for rent extraction. They are incommensurable. A classic and more obvious example comes from the what is purported to be an ancient Chinese encyclopedia, the Celestial Emporium of Benevolent Knowledge, as reported by Jorge Luis Borges. Per Wikipedia:

The list divides all animals into one of 14 categories: Those that belong to the emperor

Embalmed ones

Those that are trained

Sucking pigs

Mermaids (or Sirens)

Fabulous ones

Stray dogs

Those that are included in this classification

Those that tremble as if they were mad

Innumerable ones

Those drawn with a very fine camel hair brush

Et cetera

Those that have just broken the flower vase

Those that, at a distance, resemble flies

And as we alluded to earlier, thats before you get to the fact that Jacobs seems to regard criminal activity as only successfully prosecuted criminal activity, like drug dealing or Ponzi schemes.He fails to acknowledge criminal activity that is a meaningful component of the activity or strategy of a company. For instance, Jacobs accepts the Greg Makiw view of Steve Jobs as someone whose wealth was fairly earned. Yet Jobs was at the center of a wage-fixing operation. Price fixing is criminal. In the mid 1990s, five companies were investigated for price fixing in the lysine market, which resulted $105 million in criminal fines and three executives at the company most deeply involved, ADM, going to prison. But this is the new millennium and Silicon Valley icons like Steve Jobs, Eric Schmidt and George Lucas are too famous to jail.

Finally, Jacobs seems to greatly underestimate the degree to which large swathes of technology depend on government subsidies. All 12 of the core technologies in the iPhone were developed by the government. Yet Apple goes to great lengths to avoid paying taxes in the US. Similarly, as weve mentioned regularly, Big Pharma also benefits from ample government support and R&D tax breaks, yet also shifts profits offshore when they arrive.

The article exhibits a limited understanding of how commerce works. So as to avoid taxing reader patience, here is one illustration:

Economies of scale are a technological reality in all industries: division of labor increases productivity. Some of the lower cost is passed on to consumers; the rest is kept by the companys owners.

Sweeping and inaccurate generalizations further undermine the credibility of this work. There are plenty of cases where economies of scale do not operate because the increased supervision/coordination costs more than offset whatever benefit is derived from narrowing job tasks. Banking is a classic. Studies have consistently found that banking exhibits an slightly increasing cost curve (as in it shows diseconomies of scale) once a certain size threshold is achieved; the research differs only on where that size level sits.

I wish this discussion were tidier, in that flawed research provides useful grist for critical thinking. But this papers weaknesses are so fundamental that its hard to talk about them in as crisp a manner as Id like. The flip side is there is a good deal of solid thinking being done in this area and so theres no dearth of research that makes a powerful case that wed all be better served, including the rich*, if their wealth was reined in.

____

* See here for details.
This is a big week for the future of American industry. Chinese Premier Xi Jinping will meet one-on-one with President Obama on the sidelines of a summit in Washington. The Chinese will apparently use the meeting to make a new offer on a bilateral investment treaty that would pave the way for more foreign direct investment in both countries. This is a top economic priority for both Xi and Obama.

While this discussion unfortunately detours into xenophobia too easily and unthinkingly, more investment in the U.S. from subsidized, state-owned or state-influenced Chinese enterprises would have a dramatic effect on domestic competition. And one already-proposed deal could provide an early preview of what that might look like.

China National Chemical Corporation wants to buy Syngenta AG, a Swiss agriculture company with substantial holdings in the U.S. Syngenta sells more pesticides than any company in North America, and is among the biggest sellers of genetically modified seeds. So this $43 billion deal would put a significant portion of U.S. food infrastructure in Chinese hands.

We actually have a parallel for this. Smithfield Foods wanted to enter the lucrative Chinese market for pork for many years. When Chinese middle-class incomes rose to a level where their protein consumption accelerated, instead of opening their pork markets to foreign producers, the countrys biggest meat company, Shuanghui International Holdings, simply bought out Smithfield (in a $7.1 billion deal, much smaller than the Syngenta purchase).

Michael Wessel of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, explained to me a couple weeks ago what happened next. Shuanghui was supported by $4.2-$4.7 billion of state-subsidized capital, he said. To please Wall Street, a company like this must get 6-8 percent returns. Shuanghui gets 0-2 percent. Does that come from cutting back on corporate retreats, or lower prices down the chain?

A Chinese-owned corporation (and Shuanghui is effectively controlled by the government, contrary to the Smithfield CEOs testimony before Congress at the time) can muscle into an industry, and undercut suppliers upstream and retailers downstream because of their ability to access subsidies. This gives them a major competitive advantage and an incentive to grow. Purchasing foreign food corporations was a key element of Chinas five-year plan back in 2011.

Wessel told me that not one case study on Chinese-invested firms has been undertaken by an independent expert. But theoretically, it translates to lower wages across the food chain, and strains on already-thin margins for farmers. For the Syngenta/ChemChina deal, it means further consolidation of seed options, and more biotechnology products in the hands of the Chinese at a time when they need to satisfy growing internal demand, potentially at the expense of safety. By the way, if the bilateral investment treaty goes through, Chinese companies would have the ability to issue ISDS challenges, and potentially undermine U.S. laws under the effective direction of the Chinese government.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are attuned to the potential supply chain effects of the merger, led by Republican Chuck Grassley:

Four U.S. senators called Thursday for the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to review the deal with a specific focus on the potential effects on food security and the safety of our food system. One of the senators, Chuck Grassley of Iowa, told a local radio station earlier this week that the deal could create a conflict of interest, with the Chinese government both regulating biotechnology products and owning a company that makes them. Syngentas products, which are aimed at helping farmers get more out of their land, include genetically modified seeds for crops like corn, soybeans and sugar beet. ChemChina disputed the claims and said it welcomes a full review by the U.S. government.

Here are Grassleys comments to Iowa radio. Because the food and agriculture sectors are part of the nations critical infrastructure this merger raises questions about the potential national security implications, he said.

Syngenta has refuted this. But Grassley and the other Senators, which included his Iowa counterpart Joni Ernst, want the U.S. Department of Agriculture to have a formal role in the Committee on Foreign Investment (CFIUS) review of the ChemChina deal.

CFIUS has never rejected a foreign investment over food safety. But you can see why consolidation in the seed industry magnifies the potential for a problem in one strain of seed to have a much more dramatic effect on the global food supply, to say nothing of the impacts on farmers in Iowa and across the country. And this will define future dealings on Chinese investment. The country has announced nearly as much global mergers and acquisitions through March as they did all of last year.

Grassley and his fellow Senators are following a growing uneasiness with foreign investment: see this poll question that they would rather see a U.S.-owned factory in their neighborhood with 1,000 workers than a Chinese-owned one with 2,000. Theres an collective intuition that Chinese investment has more destructive capabilities to those outside the factory, in addition to the likely xenophobia that might creep into such a poll result. Setting that aside, theres a good reason to be skeptical, not only about Chinese investment, but the consolidation it signifies. Senators, including Grassley and others, took on the disastrous enforcement of the antitrust laws earlier this month. Loss of competition has all these spiraling effects that drives so much of what has distorted the economy. The anxiety and uneasiness so many middle-skill workers feel, the stagnant wages, the dangers to the supply chain, the decline in quality of goods and services (the crapification of America, as Yves puts it), are all embodied in the Syngenta/ChemChina deal.

All of this is a backdrop to the Obama-Xi meeting. Even though theyre negotiating a deal that would accelerate more foreign direct investment, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack (not coincidentally also from Iowa, where they understand this issue) has criticized the Syngenta deal. The Administration needs to make a coherent choice about whether to empower small farmers and domestic producers, or to put critical infrastructure up for sale to the highest bidder.
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Are the increasing incidents of terrorist attacks in Europe the "new normal"? Must Europeans and Americans become resigned to the inevitability of regular jihadist assaults? Must we endure more meaningless bromides about not "overreacting" because we might offend the world's 1.6 billion Muslims, playing into the hands of terrorists who promote the notion that the "Christian" West is at war with Islam?

Following the Brussels bombings, Belgian Justice Minister Koen Geens noted his country has a law banning police raids on private homes between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. This is not a joke. Authorities think the mastermind behind last November's terrorist attack in Paris, which killed 130 people, might have been holed up for at least two nights in Brussels and could have escaped because of this indefensible law.

The jihadists have no laws controlling their behavior.

It is the same with America's "rules of engagement" in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria. Does our restraint hold back the killers? Do we get points from extremists for trying not to kill women and children, when they make no distinction about age or gender while carrying out their heinous acts? Are we converting any of them to our way of life? Hardly. It is more likely they are encouraged by what they regard as our weakness.

Osama bin Laden revealed what he and many radical Muslims believe about American weakness in a 1998 interview with John Miller of ABC News: "We have seen in the last decade the decline of the American government and the weakness of the American soldier who is ready to wage cold wars and unprepared to fight long wars. This was proven in Beirut when the Marines fled after two explosions. It also proves they can run in less than 24 hours, and this was also repeated in Somalia."

He added that jihad is a "form of worship" and "We do not worry about Americans' opinion, or the fact they place a price on our heads. As Muslims, we believe our fate is set. Even if the whole world decides to get together and kill us before our time has come, we will not die."

This week in the Washington, D.C., suburb of Lanham, Maryland, President Barack Obama and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan are expected to open the largest American mosque in the world. According to the mosque's website, the $100 million Turkish-American Culture and Civilization Center "was built with Turkish funding under the supervision of the Turkish religious foundation (Diyanet)."

In Northern Virginia there is also a large mosque named Dar al-Hijrah, which some have accused of serving as a Hamas front. It was the home of the terrorist spiritual leader Anwar al-Awlaki, who was accused of mentoring two of the 9/11 hijackers.

What a perfect setup for a jihadist pincer movement on the nation's capital from Maryland and Virginia.

Also worth remembering is a statement by Turkish President Erdogan: "There is no moderate or immoderate Islam. Islam is Islam and that's it." Why would we not take seriously statements by bin Laden and Erdogan? Denying symptoms and refusing to see a doctor does not make an ailment disappear. Neither does denying the terrorist threat diminish the threat.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair wrote this following the attacks in Brussels, "We are at war with Islamist extremism. We need a different rhythm of thought in respect of it; preparing for a conflict that is longer than anything we have seen in modern times."

There is still time for the U.S. to turn things around, less so in Europe. But we had better be serious about our efforts and respond as we have to other threats in the past. History and current events prove jihadists are serious.
SHARE SHAWNDELL DEANDRE MCCANN

By Daily News Staff

An East Naples man who robbed a Naples ice cream store while armed received 10 years in prison Monday.

Shawndell McCann-Joseph, 24, coordinated a robbery with an employee of Rita's Italian Ice in August 2012, taking $1,060. A Collier County jury convicted him of armed robbery last month.

Senior Judge Mark A. Steinbeck issued the sentence, which includes five years of probation.

Naples police said McCann-Joseph robbed the store, located off U.S. 41 at Golden Gate Boulevard, when Erica Bendlin and another employee were working. Bendlin told police she didn't know the assailant, but surveillance video led police to suspect Bendlin spoke with the robber behind the store shortly before the crime. Text messages on the phones of Bendlin and her boyfriend, Christopher Prather, led police to McCann-Joseph.

Bendlin, 21, pleaded no contest in July to an unarmed robbery charge, receiving five years of probation. Prater was not charged.
A judge on Monday set the next criminal court hearings for Mark Sievers and Jimmy Rodgers, who are charged with murder in the June killing of Sievers' wife, for May 18.

Sievers and Rodgers did not appear during a routine arraignment, which lasted less than a minute for each, in a Lee County courtroom. Prosecutors have already filed second-degree murder charges against Sievers and Rodgers, who have both pleaded not guilty. The May hearing will be a case management conference.

Sievers is accused of orchestrating the killing of his 40-year-old wife, Teresa, by getting Rodgers and Curtis Wayne Wright Jr. to carry out the homicide. Wright, Sievers lifelong friend, has pleaded guilty to a second-degree murder charge and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for a 25-year prison sentence. Sievers arrest in late February, eight months after his wifes death, coincided with Wrights guilty plea.

Lee County sheriffs investigators said Teresa Sievers, a popular Bonita Springs doctor, was found bludgeoned to death in her home. Mark Sievers was with his two daughters in New York, and GPS evidence placed Wright and Rodgers near the Sievers home, at the time of the killing. Mark Sievers has maintained his innocence, according to court records and his former lawyer.

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By Arek Sarkissian of the Naples Daily News

TALLAHASSEE  Federal health officials on Monday argued that nearly half of the uninsured Floridians suffering from mental illness and substance abuse would have benefitted from Medicaid expansion, but they declined to offer an estimate on what the services would cost the state next year.

Richard Frank, assistant secretary for planning and evaluation with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said Monday expanding Medicaid would allow Florida to take a major step toward confronting conditions such as opioid addiction. The report said there are 2.8 million people in Florida suffering from mental illness and substance abuse, with 726,000 uninsured. Of those, Medicaid expansion would have provided services for about 309,000, or 46 percent of the uninsured.

Gov. Rick Scott and Florida lawmakers have declined to expand Medicaid, a move President Barack Obama has advocated through his Affordable Care Act to cover more of the country's uninsured. Obama's plan had the federal government picking up 100 percent of the cost through September, but states next year would have to start sharing some of the costs for the newly added Medicaid recipients.

Medicaid expansion in Florida could add $144 million to the state budget next year, when the federal government would pay 97 percent of the cost, and as much as $1.5 billion by 2020, when the federal share drops to 90 percent, according to estimates from the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration.

Vikki Wachino, director for the HHS's Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said while taxpayers will pay more for Medicaid, they will pay less in areas such as criminal justice.

"We believe there are savings in plenty of other areas," Wachino said. "They would not be paying for services that currently indirectly address other problems."

The HHS report also states Medicaid expansion would allow people to get help before it becomes severe.

A report by the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation shows 567,000 Florida residents would be currently eligible for Medicaid if the Legislature agreed to expand it.

The federal report comes less than a month after Gov. Rick Scott signed an $82 billion budget, which includes $1.1 billion in funding for mental illness.

The Legislature decided not to expand the state's Medicaid plan, most recently last year after Scott and House lawmakers argued the state would be on the hook to subsidize the program in future years. A plan by Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, was rejected by House Speaker Steve Crisafulli, R-Merritt Island.

Contact Daily News reporter arek.sarkissian@naplesnews.com or 850-559-7620
Ritz-Carlton joins South Seas as resorts announce mass layoffs due to Ian

Two large resorts in Southwest Florida have announced mass layoffs due to Ian. There could be more to come.
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Rick Barber, P.E., Bonita Springs

Governing Board Member

South Florida Water Management District

Increase storage

As a professional engineer with more than 40 years of public involvement in Southwest Florida, I have a first-hand understanding of what must be done to protect our water resources. So I applaud U.S. Rep. Curt Clawson's recent effort to expedite repairs on the Herbert Hoover Dike surrounding Lake Okeechobee.

As a volunteer Governing Board member at the South Florida Water Management District, I support the urgency of his bill directing the Secretary of the Army to complete work on a structure that has a direct impact on the Caloosahatchee River and estuary.

With a fixed understanding of the big picture, Rep. Clawson followed up with a related bill setting aside $500 million for the U.S. Department of the Interior to acquire land for more water storage south of the lake. Record rainfall this year punctuated this critical need to prevent damaging dumps of water from the lake. Storage is also critical during the dry season to deliver water where it is needed.

The bill is a very helpful first step as water storage options should not be limited, which is acknowledged by asking for a study before property is selected. Retaining water before it reaches the liquid heart of Florida gives water managers more flexibility and greater options to protect the ecosystem.

The bottom line is that we need storage across a system that spans 16 counties, from Orlando to the Florida Keys. We look to Rep. Clawson's leadership and that of his colleagues in Congress to broaden their scope and help us achieve this objective.
News of the recent death of Henry John Cleeve (Harry) at the great age of 103, evokes a retrospective look at the contribution made by the Cleeves (of Limerick) to the late 19th, early 20th century, industrial history of Clonmel and South Tipperary.

News of the recent death of Henry John Cleeve (Harry) at the great age of 103, evokes a retrospective look at the contribution made by the Cleeves (of Limerick) to the late 19th, early 20th century, industrial history of Clonmel and South Tipperary.

Though Harry Cleeve, the last of his family in Clonmel, left the town to live in Gowran, County Kilkenny, in 1978, the familys connection with the town was never entirely severed, since he returned from time to time to visit his wifes and his ancestors graves in Inislounaght.

The Cleeves inherited their remarkable business acumen from their French Huguenot ancestry, and after a spell in Quebec in 1840, Harry Cleeves grandfather returned to Ireland and established a business in the importation of coffee, in Limerick. This business diversified, in time, into the manufacture of sweetened condensed milk for a growing export market, and later still into sweets and toffee-making. The condensed milk business ultimately involved the organisation of the dairy industry in The Golden Vale, and this was facilitated by the collection of milk via milk-trains, on the expanding railway system in Ireland.

By 1888, the Cleeves, in addition to Limerick, had a large factory in Mallow, and the following year opened yet another factory in Clonmel. The first factory in the town was located in Queen Street, and two years later was moved on to Suir Island and into the premises vacated by Malcolmsons Cotton Mills.

The time was opportune, The Repeal of the Corn Laws, major changes in the worlds economy, the Great Famine, had already depleted the old Quaker industries. The town was endeavouring to re-establish itself as an attractive locale for business and commerce. Burkes bacon factory was already well established in Irishtown, and later in OConnell Street and Old Quay.

Murphys Brewery was in full production on New Quay. Creans tannery was exporting leather from Cascade. The Myers were making footwear on Suir Island. OGormans carriage works would shortly set up in business in Prior Park. Cleeves Condensed Milk Company of Ireland would become the jewel in the crown of industrial revival in Clonmel.

Joseph Cleeve became the first manager of the company in Clonmel. He purchased Salisbury in Marlfield as a residence in 1907 and moved to Oaklands in 1921, where the family resided until the 1960s.

The Cleeves with their combined industries in Munster, became the largest employers in Ireland, with a minimum of 2,000 employees on their payroll, and they were buying milk from 3,000 farmers. In Clonmel, an average of 200 men and women were employed, and this number seasonally increased to 300. Like the old Cotton Mills, the industry gave an opportunity to women to work in areas, outside of the domestic, which, at that time, was the only source of employment for a very large number of women.

The wages paid appeared to be somewhat above average for the time. The Clonmel factory manufactured butter, condensed milk and casings - almost all for export. The company appeared to reach its most prosperous period in the town during World War I, when the demand for dairy products in Britain, especially condensed milk for the armies, reached its zenith.

With the ending of the war, came the inevitable economic depression, with a dramatic fall in exports. This coincided with our own struggles for independence. The firm said it was losing money and proposed a reduction in wages. The workers said the company had made a million during the war. The stand-off led to a strike, which, in the climate of the time, was a special sort of strike which has become known as The Clonmel Soviet.

The Russian Revolution had cast long shadows over the Europe of the early decades of the 20th century. In many countries so-called soviets were established by workers taking over industries from capitalist owners, with the objective of operating them for the benefit of the workers, with all the profits accruing to themselves. That was the theory.

The Clonmel soviet was established in the last week of April 1922, when the workers demanded from the management the keys, and then hoisted a red flag on the factory building. The popular belief was (there is no written evidence) that this was done at the point of a gun.

It was not the most propitious time for ideological experi-mentation. The coinciding Civil War, with consequent damaged bridges, disrupted railways, roads and postal services, left Clonmel isolated. For the first time since the Famine, soup kitchens were set up in the town. In the initial few weeks there had been some limited public sympathy for the strikers or sovieters, but this quickly evaporated, especially when elements of anarchy took over and butter was walked into pavements and milk was overturned and poured down Sarsfield Street from a site opposite the Main Guard. Clonmel had enough!

The soviet was short-lived and after some negotiations, facilitated by the Mayor, Frank Drohan, and the Franciscan Fr. Robert, the strike was called off, the soviet dissipated. But the Condensed Milk Company of Ireland never quite recovered and the Cleeves sold the business to the Clonmel and Newcastle Co-Operative Creamery, and retired.

They did retain a refrigeration and cold storage facility at The Manor Mills, which was powered by the millrace, now converted to a street, at Old Bridge. This was managed by Harry Cleeve, until it was acquired by Clonmel Foods in the 1950s.

In a recent obituary, The Irish Times refers to his long and colourful life. At the outbreak of World War II, and while living in Glenconnor, he volunteered for service in the British Army and was commissioned into the Royal Irish Fusiliers. At the end of the war, he was sent to Tromse, in the Arctic Circle, to oversee the repatriation of Russian prisoners-of-war and the demobilisation of the German army in Norway.

The death of Harry Cleeve finally breaks the link with a remarkably successful industrial empire which, in its time, contributed much to the town of Clonmel and to its environs.
The National Credit Union Administration on Thursday said it has accepted a $29 million offer of judgment from Credit Suisse to resolve claims arising from losses related to purchases of residential mortgage-backed securities by Members United and Southwest Corporate Credit Unions.

The NCUA board initiated litigation as liquidating agent for the failed corporate CUs.

The regulator noted the offer of judgment includes $29 million in damages plus prejudgment interest in an amount to be determined by the court, as well as reasonable attorneys' fees to be determined by agreement between the parties or by the court.

NCUA still has litigation pending in federal court in Kansas against Credit Suisse for sales of faulty residential mortgage-backed securities to U.S. Central and Southwest Corporate Credit Unions. It also has lawsuits pending against several other firms based on the sale of faulty securities. NCUA likewise has pending litigation against various RMBS trustees and Libor banks related to corporate credit union losses.

The agency noted it was the first federal financial institutions regulator to recover losses from investments in these securities on behalf of failed financial institutions. NCUA said it now has obtained more than $2.5 billion in legal recoveries in securities cases. Net proceeds are used to pay claims against five failed corporate credit unions, including those of the Temporary Corporate Credit Union Stabilization Fund. NCUA said recoveries by the Stabilization Fund reduce the likelihood of assessments charged to federally insured credit unions to pay for the losses caused by corporate credit union failures.

The Credit Suisse offer and acceptance follows a similar agreement last month, when NCUA accepted a judgment for $33 million, plus prejudgment interest, from Swiss banking giant UBS AG.

"NCUA will continue to meet its statutory obligation to secure recoveries for credit unions and ensure consumers remain protected," Debbie Matz NCUA board chairman, said in a statement. "We will continue to aggressively pursue recoveries against Wall Street firms that contributed to the corporate crisis with the goals of minimizing net losses of the corporate crisis and providing a future rebate to credit unions."
Mark Jordan

A jury awarded Mount Olympus Mortgage Co. more than $25 million in a lawsuit alleging "corporate espionage" by former employee Benjamin Anderson and his new employer, Guaranteed Rate.

Anderson and another former Mount Olympus originator who now works for Guaranteed Rate, Brian Decker, were accused of stealing loan files, borrower information and other proprietary data from the Irvine, Calif.-based lender.

"The purpose of the scheme was to divert hundreds of MOMCo loan customers to Guaranteed. The Individual Defendants misappropriated MOMCo's confidential and proprietary information and directed MOMCo customers to Guaranteed," the lawsuit, filed in an Orange County, Calif., superior court, reads.

The complaint alleges the pair acted with the encouragement of Chicago-based Guaranteed Rate.

"Guaranteed and Anderson conspired and devised a scheme to defraud MOMCo and secretly misappropriate MOMCo's proprietary and confidential information," the lawsuit reads. "Anderson was the perfect infiltrator: Anderson would continue to masquerade in his role as Mortgage Banker for MOMCo, while simultaneously, unlawfully downloading gigabytes of proprietary and confidential borrower information as well as offer confidential information from MOMCo's servers, and diverting such information to Guaranteed."

Anderson and Decker are among nine former Mount Olympus employees accused of participating in the scheme, which allegedly involved more than five gigabytes of Mount Olympus data. The claims against Decker was severed from the original lawsuit against Anderson and Guaranteed Rate and will be tried separately, said Chad Hummel, an attorney for Mount Olympus, in an interview. Claims against the remaining seven former Mount Olympus employees were previously settled confidentially out of court, Hummel added.

California law required the state's Attorney General as well as consumers be notified regarding a data breach involving over 500 individuals. Hummel said that over 900 files were involved in this case; a letter dated July 30, 2014 notifying customers of the data breach is posted on the Attorney General's website.

Guaranteed Rate officials declined an interview request. In a written statement, the company denied the lawsuit's allegations.

"Guaranteed Rate would never encourage Ben Anderson, or any loan officer, to bring over loans in process or download any data," the statement reads.

"Needless to say, Guaranteed Rate strongly disagrees with the jurys conclusion, and we are reviewing all available options for an appeal in the case," it adds.

According to Hummel and court documents, the situation at Mount Olympus came to a head on June 5, 2014. There was a meeting between company management and Anderson, who ranked No. 6 among top originators in 2013 with production of $201 million and 21st in 2012 with production of $180 million, over a decline in his loan origination volume.

After the meeting, Anderson's desk was empty and his computer hard drive had data missing. At that point the company terminated Anderson's employment, Hummel said. Mount Olympus was able to recover the missing information and found archived emails showing Anderson had been corresponding with Guaranteed Rate for three months, Hummel said, adding what was "discovered at that point just the tip of the iceberg of the data theft."

The complaint said Anderson received a new employee package from Guaranteed Rate in April 2014. The jury found that Anderson breached his employment contract and fiduciary duty to Mount Olympus, as well as committed fraud.

The jury also found that Anderson along with Guaranteed Rate violated portions of section 502 of the California Penal Code involving the copying of mortgage loan computer files. Even though the claims against Decker were separated from this case, the jury also found Decker to be accountable.

In its verdict on March 17, the jury awarded Mount Olympus $5.6 million from lost profits and $4.6 million in lost business value jointly coming from Anderson and Guaranteed Rate. The jury also determined Anderson had to disgorge nearly $2 million he earned from commissions on the loans involved in this case, Hummel said. The jury also found Guaranteed Rate earned $657,000 unjustly.

On March 22, the jury awarded Mount Olympus $12.5 million in punitive damages from Guaranteed Rate and $500,000 from Anderson.

Mount Olympus can elect to take either the jury award on lost profits or unjust enrichment, but not both, Hummel said. In the case of Guaranteed Rate, Mount Olympus is taking the lost profits award of $5.6 million, the lost business value of $4.6 million and the punitive damages of $12.5 million, for a total of $22.7 million. Against Anderson, the lender is taking the $1.9 million in unjust enrichment award instead of the $5.6 million in lost profits (for which the jury held both him and Guaranteed Rate jointly liable for), the $4.6M lost business value award that both Anderson and Guaranteed Rate are jointly liable for, as well as the $500,000 punitive damage award  for a combined judgment of $25.1 million.

In addition, the judge presiding over the case may assess attorney's fees and other damages under California Business and Professions Code Section 17200, which deals with unfair competition.

Anderson and Decker filed a countersuit against Mount Olympus, as did Guaranteed Rate. Guaranteed Rate dropped its suit during the trial. Anderson made wage and defamation claims. The wage claims were dismissed by the judge, Hummel said. The jury decided against Anderson on the defamation claims.

Both Anderson and Decker appear on the 2016 Top Producers list. Anderson did $182 million volume for 2015 and ranked No. 16. Decker ranked No. 32 with volume of $139 million.

Mount Olympus did not have a problem with Anderson leaving for a larger competitor, Hummel said. "Everybody is free to recruit legitimately; everybody is free to move legitimately. But the data relating to customers that is in a mortgage bank's database is generally the property of the mortgage bank and it is illegal for an employee to take that data without the employer's and in particular, the customer's knowledge or consent," he continued.

Mount Olympus, besides its Irvine office, had an office in Temecula, Calif., which closed on June 5, 2014 because of the situation with Anderson and Decker. The company now does business as Tru Mortgage and it opened a second office located in Beverly Hills, Calif., this past August.

"Now more than ever, the mortgage industry depends on legitimate and fair practices, and maintaining the integrity of private consumer financial data is a responsibility entrusted to every mortgage bank that we cannot and should not take lightly," said Mount Olympus' chairman Claude Arnall in a press release.
"We set out to make a movie, now we're making history." - Del Bigtree, producer of VAXXED

(NaturalNews) ABC World News Tonight interviewed Del Bigtree, producer of the "VAXXED" documentary, for about ten minutes. But they used just five seconds in their hit piece attacking the film that was subsequently blackballed by Robert De Niro's Tribeca Film Festival Now, Natural News has published the exclusive UNCUT full video interview with Del Bigtree. This interview was filmed justfrom the Tribeca Film Festival. ABC News used only five seconds from this entire interview. Click here to watch it now on YouTube , or play it below.I also spoke with Del Bigtree today about his reaction to the film being viciously attacked by the pro-vaccine mainstream media and being blackballed by De Niro. His response?Here's what else he told me:Watch the full, uncut interview with Del Bigtree here:
Sloan Foundation headed by CFR globalist

Keep digging!

(NaturalNews) As the story on the censorship of the VAXXED documentary continues to unfold , we are learning that Robert De Niro was pressured by none other than theto blacklist the independent documentary.The Sloan Foundation is so named from Alfred P. Sloan, a Nazi collaborator and eugenics depopulation promoter. It's no coincidence that his own beliefs on using medical interventions to reduce race-targeted populations coincides perfectly with the stated depopulation goals of Bill Gates (whose financial web of influence is woven across the entire vaccine propaganda landscape).What led me to connect the dots on this is a short piece from Celia Farber of The Turth Barrier , who originally noticed the Sloan Foundation link.As admitted on this Tribeca Film Festival web page Zen Gardner , meanwhile, reveals the shocking history behind Alfred P. Sloan as a Nazi collaborator and eugenicist:Like the most evil entities on the planet, the Sloan Foundation hides its eugenics / depopulation agenda behind a "science" agenda. But if you read between the lines, it's obvious that the foundation's ethics are rooted in globalist initiatives that sacrifice human lives to create whatever the elitists call "a better world."From the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation website TRANSLATION: Develop viral bioweapons and sterilization chemicals and inject them into the populations of the world (via vaccinations) to make them either infertile or diseased. Then reap the financial rewards on all the Merck pharmaceuticals sold to treat the very diseases that you injected into the population. Most of all, uses "forces of nature" (such as viruses) to eliminate targeted populations that the globalists don't want around, thereby leading to "a better world for all." Mission accomplished!RELATED: The CDC vaccine science cover-up admitted to by Dr. William Thompson specifically points out that it waswho were subjected to high autism risk from the vaccines! Yes, there is a racial genocide component to all this, and it fits perfectly with the eugenics history of Alfred P. Sloan as well as Robert De Niro's decision to censor the VAXXED documentary.The Sloan Foundation is currently headed by a globalist named, member of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a global elite group with deep ties to depopulation advocate Bill Gates, who also awards large grants to numerous websites that agree to publish pro-vaccine propaganda. (Nearly all pro-vaccine websites have been bought and paid for by the pharmaceutical industry or Gates-like foundation grants.)The Gates Foundation and the Sloan Foundation, it turns out, tag-team money funneling into fraudulent vaccine initiatives that further Gates' depopulation agendas. See this Gates Foundation announcement for a taste of the official cover story, under which you really find a pattern of pushing vaccines asto depopulate the world of targeted populations in Third World nations.Paul Jaskow is also tied to MIT, the same "scientific" institution that fed radioactive oatmeal to children to find out what would happen to them . So the use of children for medical experiments is a pattern of history and tradition at MIT.As part of the cover for all this nefarious activity, Paul Joskow gives money to an anti-eugenics non-profit group called "Facing History." This annual report from 2013 lists "Barbara Chasen Joskow and Paul L. Joskow" as donors, while simultaneously stating the group is "Celebrating Milestones" that include "teaching about the challenges societies face as they attempt to heal, repair, and rebuild after genocide or other instances of mass violence." It is no coincidence that, thereby perpetuating the circle of violence upon which these non-profit front groups depend for their funding and stature.Facing History is a political correctness influence group that claims to "help students learn about hatred and bigotry so they can stop them from happening in the future." This group is one of the key influencers that has turned today's liberal college students into intolerant "safe space" crybullies who feel physical violated when they hear any opinion or speech that disagrees with their own. The key philosophy of Facing History isto propaganda ideas that are pushed onto students by brainwashed instructors and college administrators.What you're reading here is only what I've been able to put together in about an hour of research the links between the Tribeca Film Festival, the Sloan Foundation, the CFR, the Gates Foundation, Merck, depopulation agendas, eugenics and Nazi war criminals.No doubt you and others across the internet will find much, much more. Keep digging!
'Government's reputation at stake'

'Likely a conspiracy'

(NaturalNews) Everybody's heard the term "conspiracy theory," and most of us have heard at least one "conspiracy" in our lifetimes. In fact, conspiracy theories abound , but that's only because actualreally do exist.In more recent times there were a great many conspiracies floating around about the World Trade Center attacks on 9/11, but perhaps the biggest conspiracy theories of the modern era are tied to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963.Some believe that the CIA did it. Others have said it was a mob hit. Still others believe it could have been in response to Kennedy's desire to stay out of Vietnam. Some have said that they believe it is a combination of these other theories.In fact, as noted by the Center for Research on Globalization, a Canada-based think tank, the term was actually born from the Kennedy assassination, and was manipulated intentionally by the CIA, coincidentally, to debunk alternative views about what had happened, based on various accounts and other evidence at the time.As the center noted:The center noted that the negative connotations surrounding the term are traceable to liberal historian Richard Hofstadter's well-known attacks against the "New Right." But, the think tank noted, it was the CIA that most likely played the greater role in sort of "weaponizing" the term.Following much skepticism over the findings of the Warren Commission, a panel formed by President Lyndon Johnson to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assassination that was led by then-Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Earl Warren (future president Gerald Ford, then a U.S. congressman, was also on the panel), the CIA sent a detailed directive to all of its desks and bureaus. Titled, "Countering Criticism of the Warren Commission Report," the communique was key in transforming the term " conspiracy theory" into a weapon that could be used against any group or individual who questioned the federal government's increasingly clandestine operations.was made public byin the late 1970s, following a Freedom of Information Act request by the paper in 1976. The directive is notably significant because it lays out the top spy agency's concerns regarding "the whole reputation of the American government," vis-a-vis the Warren Commission report, which concluded, by the way, that Lee Harvey Oswald was the lone gunman who assassinated the president. A motive could never be established (more on that in a moment), since Oswald was killed by low-level gangster Jack Ruby the following day, as he made his way to a waiting car in the basement of a Dallas police station.The CIA was very interested in maintaining its own image and role as it "contributed information to the investigation" conducted by the Warren Commission.As further noted by the Canadian think tank:This memo, and its directives, are utilized often today  by the media, most often, but also by politicians, presidential administrations and government agencies  to try to discredit anyone or any group that disagrees with the official government narrative (the global warming hoax immediately comes to mind).Finally, there is this: In the late 1970s the U.S. House Select Committee on Assassinations launched a new probe into the Kennedy assassination. The congressional panel generally adopted the Warren Commission's findings and agreed that two bullets from Oswald's rifle did indeed kill Kennedy. But the HSCA also said that there was a high likelihood of a second shooter, and that some unknown conspiracy  a plot of some sort  was behind the murder.
'16 times the limit'

'Clearly the radiation has infiltrated the local ecosystem'

(NaturalNews) Three decades ago this month, a massive explosion at the Soviet-era Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Pripyat, Ukraine  part of the USSR at the time  spewed record amounts of radioactive fuel and core materials into the atmosphere.It was the worst nuclear disaster in the atomic age (to be eclipsed just a few short years ago by the tsunami-caused catastrophe at the Fukushima Daiichi plant in northern Japan ).In addition to releasing a plume of dangerous radioactivity, the explosion also irradiated large swaths of land surrounding the plant.As reported by, residents of contaminated areas around the disaster site are stilling being exposed to dangerously high levels of radiation, and it has also permeated the food they are eating.Researchers who continue to study the effects of the radioactive fallout have been examining locally produced food and forest products, both in Ukraine and Russia; they have discovered radioactive isotopes that are dramatically higher than what is permissible for human ingestion  16 times as much, in fact, in some cases, according to findings released recently by Greenpeace."These disasters go on for not only for decades or centuries, but perhaps millennium," said Shawn-Patrick Stensil, a senior energy analyst with Greenpeace, and a co-author of the report , as quoted by. "We are still seeing contamination levels that are way higher than permissible limits."The accident, which took place April 26, 1986, released some 200 times more radioactivity than was released by the atomic bombs dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima to end World War II, the World Health Organization (WHO) says, as reported byAs the site reported further:Samples of grain that were collected from fields in the Kiev area, which is located about 31 miles from Chernobyl, also contained levels of radioactive isotopes that, in some cases, were more than double the limit for human consumption.And dried mushrooms that were gathered from a forest in the Rivne area, and then stored by families, were found to contain levels of cesium-137 at 16 times the allowable limit.The isotope has a half-life of 30 years, but it will take several centuries for it to decay to a level that is not a risk for humans. Exposure to cesium-137 can boost the risk of cancer, particularly if it is being ingested, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted "These isotopes are circulating through the ecosystem in ways that we never imagined," Stensil said. "If you live next to the forest, it's part of your way of life. These communities will have to be continually decontaminated."In addition to the initial poisoning of the environment caused by the accident,reports that radioactivity is being continually redistributed via natural occurrence."Clearly, the radiation from the disaster has infiltrated the local ecosystem in a fairly comprehensive way, and not just in terms of edible crops," the site noted. "The report mentions that more than 1,100 wildfires occurred between 1993 and 2013 in the area, meaning that radiation from the blast, initially absorbed by vegetation, has been re-released and redistributed."Ukraine was considered the "breadbasket" of the former Soviet Union, but the country has suffered economically since the breakup of the USSR in 1991, making it difficult for the nation's citizens to avoid consuming contaminated food.
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The water contamination crisis in Flint, Michigan remains to be unresolved, prompting the federal government to extend the emergency declaration, as reported by Reuters.

The government sent bottled water and water testing kits for the residents last Friday, according to the state governor.

The ongoing water contamination crisis in Flint can be traced as far back as two years ago on April 25, 2014, when the city switched its water supply source from the Detroit system to Flint River. A few months later, the city officials issued advisories to boil water after coliform bacteria were detected in tap water.

In the following years, high levels of lead were detected. In their investigation, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and health officials found high levels of lead in the blood of the children who were tested.

Public health officials blamed old pipes and cold weather for the high concentration of lead in the water.

President Barack Obama declared Flint and the surrounding county under a state of emergency last January 16. A total of $5 million worth of aid was authorized to be released and managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The state of emergency was set to expire in mid-April this year, but the FEMA officials agreed to extend the assistance until August 14 in response to the request of the state officials.

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder was quoted saying, "With this federal assistance, much-needed resources will continue to be available to Flint residents while this crisis exists."

High-level lead toxicity in the Flint water could cause serious damage to the nervous system of those with lead accumulation.

According to a CNN article, a final report published last week confirmed serious negligence committed by every agency supposedly tasked to protect the residents.

The governor, the county health department and the EPA were blamed for inaction and environmental injustice against the majority of the county's African-American residents.
Scientists have long hypothesized that the moon was once geologically active, but evidence about this hypothesis has been elusive. However, a recent observation may finally prove this: a possible lava tubes has been recently spotted.

As reported by the National Geographic, latest evidence based on a survey of moon's gravitational fields shows some tell-tale signatures of possible lunar lava tubes. These ancient sub-lunar lava tubes are large and sturdy enough to contain entire cities, making them ideal as locations for future moon bases.

Lunar lava tubes have thick roofs that provide natural protection against radiation and meteor impacts. Speculative evidence for their existence was previously based on visible features such as channel-like depressions and skylights and rilles.

The latest findings were presented by Rohan Sood from Purdue University during the 47th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference. According to his report, the strongest evidence came from signature signals from a lunar mapping survey.

Scientists who conducted the study began their search for lunar lava tubes in the region known as the Marius Hills. Their first clue was the suspected skylight that opened into one of the hidden lava tunnels.

The area has been a likely candidate for the location of the tubes when a possible skylight opening was discovered by the Japanese satellite Kaguya, which was sent to orbit the moon in 2009.

The opening had a width of approximately 65 meters and depth of 80 meters.

Two rilles were also observed, suggesting ancient lava flows near the portal. Direct visual observation of the tube is currently not practical, prompting scientists to use gravity mapping data in making their assessments.

Lava tubes are hollow and could produce dips in gravitational measurements. These dips have specific signatures that can be assessed.

Decades before the gravitational fields of the moon were mapped, the Marius Hills region has already been identified as a possible area where lava tubes could be found. According to an earlier study, the region has features resembling volcanic origins, such as irregular shaped craters.
San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr and advocacy organization Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) will on Monday urge a senate committee to pass legislation requiring all DUI offenders to have interlock devices installed on their cars.

The legislation would expand upon Californias pilot program, which requires DUI offenders in Alameda, Los Angeles, Sacramento and Tulare to have them installed post-conviction. If passed, the legislation would expand the program to all 58 counties in California, according to a news release.

The devices, commonly referred to as IIDs, test the breath of drivers and stop the car from starting if a blood alcohol concetration (BAC) reading tests positive for alcohol.

Senator Jerry Hill and relatives of people killed by drunk drivers will also be at the Monday meeting, set to take place at the San Francisco Police Department headquarters.
Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Monday appointed Eddie Johnson, the current Chief of Patrol in Chicago, as the city's new Interim Superintendent and asked the Chicago Police Board to conduct a new search for the superintendent role.

I am deeply appreciative of the time and hard work the Police Board put into this search. The three candidates I interviewed have distinguished careers in law enforcement and they all impressed me with their commitment to public safety, Emanuel said. However, as our city works through the challenges ahead, it is more important than ever that we find the right person who knows our city and can provide the level of safety every resident deserves, lift the morale of Chicagos police officers, and build on the work thats been done to restore trust and accountability in the police department.

Johnson will replace current Interim Superintendent John Escalante in the position.

Sources revealed over the weekend that, in a surprise move, Emanuel had rejected the three chosen finalists recommended by the police board and asked Johnson to step in and apply for the job. Johnson, a Chicago native, did not apply for the position during the first search, instead saying he wanted to support Escalante, who was not among the final candidates recommended by the board.

The unprecedented move is to comply with the legal requirement that the mayor select a superintendent from finalists chosen by the Police Board.

If Johnson is picked as a finalists and chosen by Emanuel, the choice must then be approved by the City Council.

Prior to Saturday, the three finalists selected by the Chicago Police Board were: Dr. Cedric Alexander, the current Director of Public Safety in Dekalb County, Georgia; Anne Kirkpatrick, the former Chief of Police in Spokane, Washington; and Eugene Williams, the Chief of Support Services in Chicago, and the only current Chicago officer who initially made the cut.

Alexander told NBC 5 in an exclusive interview over the weekend that Emanuel initially offered him the role before reversing course.

Both Emanuel and Johnson acknowledged Monday the importance of appointing someone from within the department for the role.

"Because Im an insider, I can fix things from the inside out as opposed to coming from the outside and having to fix things from the outside in," Johnson said.

A total of 38 individuals applied for the job after Emanuel fired Former Superintendent Garry McCarthy in December of last year. His ousting came in the wake of the controversial shooting of African-American teen Laquan McDonald.

The surprising choice of Johnson to fill the position comes after the Chicago City Council Black Caucus said it wanted to interview candidates prior to the final decision.

"Deputy Chief Eddie Johnson is a well-respected leader within the Chicago Police Department," City Council Black Caucus Chair Ald. Roderick Sawyer and Latino Caucus Chair Ald. George Cardinas said in a joint statement. "As Interim Superintendent, we expect him to demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and an end to the culture that has led to the use of excessive force and the 'Blue Wall' of silence."

Johnson, who still lives in Chicago, said the risks of being a police officer in the city are "greater than ever."

"Anyone who thinks the job of being police officer is easy has not done it," he said, adding, however, that there is less tolerance for mistakes.

Johnson noted that there is a trust issue within the department and between officers and communities. Emanuel said Johnson informed commanders in the department this week that he plans to wear a body camera while acting as interim police superintendent.

"Countless incidents of courage and professionalism far outweigh the few examples of excessive force," Johnson said. "Nevertheless these incidents, no matter how isolated, undermine our entire department and our relationship with the community. We have to own it and we have to end."

Emanuel admitted that although Johnson plans to apply for the official title of superintendent, there is a possibility he could still not be named to the role. Meanwhile, Fred Waller will take Johnson's place as Chief of Patrol, the department said.
In a new campaign ad, Rep. Tammy Duckworth aims to tie Sen. Mark Kirk to Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump.

Earlier this month, Kirk told NBC Chicago that he certainly would support Trump if he won the Republican presidential nomination. In addition to that statement, the ad intersperses some of the more incendiary claims Trump has made on the campaign trail.

When Mexico sends its people, theyre not sending their best, Trump said during the announcement of his campaign last June. Theyre bringing drugs, theyre bringing crime, theyre rapists.

Kirk publicly disavowed these statements and distanced himself from Trumps foreign policy in a conversation with John Gregory last June.

In a typical Chicago way, to my Mexican-American friends, I would say, Donald Trump callate- shut up.

The ad also features a clip of Trump denigrating Sen. John McCains military service last July.

Hes not a war hero, Trump says. Hes a war hero because he was captured. I like people that werent captured, okay?

Kirk quickly condemned these comments on Twitter last July.

My friend [McCain] is a true #hero and a great American, Kirk said.

Duckworth also showed support for McCain following Trumps comments and called for an apology.

The ad features clips of Chicagos canceled Trump rally that erupted in violence earlier this month. In addition to this, it features clips of Trump mocking reporters and questioning President Barack Obamas birth certificate.

Trump and Kirk, the ads final title cards read. Making America Great?

The Duckworth camp expounded on these concerns in a statement provided to Ward Room.

"A Donald Trump presidency is unthinkable to a vast majority of Illinoisans, who look upon his outrageous campaign with disgust- and yet that's exactly what Mark Kirk has pledged to support," Duckworth campaign spokesman Matt McGrath said. "Then again, Senator Kirk's long record of offending his constituents, particularly women and communities of color, fits neatly into the Trump mold."

The Kirk campaign called the ad a smokescreen to distract attention from Duckworth's proposed policy for Syrian refugees.

"Another false and desperate attempt by Rep. Duckworth to deflect from the fact that she seeks to allow 200,000 Syrian refugees into the United States, even though the FBI says they cannot be safely vetted and that ISIS is now using the refugee crisis to infiltrate countries," Kirk campaign manager Kevin Artl said in a statement.

Duckworth defeated Urban League President and CEO Andrea Zopp and state Sen. Napoleon Harris to win the Democratic nomination for Kirk's U.S. Senate seat.

Kirk beat out Oswego businessman James Kirk in the Republican primary in his bid for reelection.
Looking for an acting opportunity in Chicago? This may be your chance.



NBCs Chicago Justice is looking for people of all different backgrounds to play roles for a giant episode to be filmed March 30, March 31 and April 1, according to an open call posting.

Want to apply? Here's everything you need to know.



What casting directors are looking for:



#BLM - For the March 30 filming date, casting directors are looking for people of all ethnicities to play Black Lives Matter protestors, news crew, sheriffs, and photographers, according to a listing. Applicants should only submit if you have not previously applied for the roles. The pay rate is $80/8, plus $25 wardrobe fitting.



MEDIA FRENZY  Casting directors are searching for African American men and women with cars to play family and community members at a press conference for a boy injured in a shooting, the listing reads. The scene is a 2-day (March 31 and April 1) booking for anyone booked with their cars. Some may be asked to return on April 4. The pay rate is $80/8, plus $25 wardrobe fitting.



How to apply:



If you are in the Chicago area and fit the descriptions, submit the following information to TailSticksCasting@Gmail.com with either #BLM or MEDIA FRENZY in the subject line (if submitting for more than one role, please put all titles in subject line of ONE email):



MULTIPLE RECENT PHOTOS:

NAME:

EMAIL:

PHONE:

ZIP:

AGE:

HEIGHT:

WEIGHT:

AVAILABILITY: (Please list any conflict from 3/28-4/5)

FEMALES: DRESS/TSHIRT/BUST-WAIST-HIP/SHOE:

MALES: JACKET/TSHIRT/NECK/SLEEVE/WAIST/INSEAM/SHOE:

VISIBLE TATTOOS (attach a photo of the tattoos)

CAR: Color/Year/Make/Model

About "Chicago Justice":

The show, which was originally titled "Chicago Law," will center around the world of lawyers and prosecutors in Chicago, according to the listing. It is set to become the third spin-off from flagship series "Chicago Fire." Similar to how "Chicago Med" characters first debuted on "Chicago Fire," the "Justice" characters will be introduced in a backdoor pilot on the 21st episode of "Chicago P.D." this year.
A man wanted for questioning after his childs mother was found strangled Thursday in north suburban Skokie was arrested Sunday afternoon on Chicagos West Side.

Jermaine Powell was arrested on a warrant charging a parole violation at 4:13 p.m. in the 2700 block of West Jackson, according to Chicago Police. He was also charged with one misdemeanor count of criminal trespass to a vehicle.

Powell was wanted for questioning after Skokie police conducting a well-being check at the request of a family member found 31-year-old Catherine M. Benyamin dead at 10:24 a.m. Thursday at an apartment in the 8200 block of Keating Avenue, authorities said.

An autopsy Friday found she was asphyxiated as a result of being strangled, and her death was ruled a homicide, according to the Cook County medical examiners office.

Joshua Powell, the 10-month-old son of Benyamin and Jermaine Powell, was missing until about 7 p.m., when authorities were informed the baby had been dropped off at a church near Halsted and Roosevelt on the Near West Side, police said. It is believed that someone matching the fathers description dropped the boy off at the church.

The baby, who is now with a family member, was taken to the University of Illinois Hospital for routine observation, but is believed to be healthy and unharmed, police said. A GoFundMe has been started for him.

The North Regional Major Crimes Task Force is assisting Skokie police in investigating the homicide, which police believe was an isolated event.

Anyone with information should call police at (847) 982-5900.
An Indiana man drank whiskey with the uncle of a 1-year-old girl, then waited until the family fell asleep before abducting, raping and killing the toddler, prosecutors said Monday in court documents.

Kyle Parker is charged with murder, rape, kidnapping and other offenses in the death of Shaylyn Ammerman, whose body was found Thursday night following two days of intensive searching.

Parker, 22, of Spencer, directed investigators to the remote, wooded location where the young girl's body was located, a state police detective said in Owen County court documents.

Court records did not list a defense attorney for Parker ahead of his initial hearing Monday afternoon.

The girl's father and grandmother, Justin Ammerman and Tamera Morgan, were the last people known to have seen her late Tuesday. She had been staying at her father's home under a joint custody arrangement with the girl's mother; her grandmother and uncle also lived there.

Parker was drinking whiskey Tuesday night with Shaylyn's uncle at the Ammerman's home and abducted the toddler early on Wednesday after other family members had fallen asleep, according to court documents.

Parker denied involvement in Shaylyn's disappearance when first questioned on Wednesday, but directed police to the place where her body was found Thursday near the White River outside of Gosport, about 40 miles southwest of Indianapolis.

An autopsy found Shaylyn suffered severe sexual trauma while she was alive and died from asphyxiation. Investigators reported finding the girl's body next to a tree and a burn pile nearby believed to have contained her clothes and other evidence.

Several hundred people attended a prayer vigil for Shaylyn at a Spencer park Friday evening.
A 53-year-old Wisconsin woman has been identified as the person killed last week when a limousine hit a concrete barrier and overturned on the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway near northwest suburban Hoffman Estates.

Teri Schmidt, of Monona, Wisconsin, was one of seven people initially injured in the single-vehicle crash around 7:10 a.m. Friday on eastbound Interstate 90 just east the Fox River, according to Illinois State Police. She was taken to an area hospital in serious condition, but later died of her injuries, authorities said.

Police said the driver of the 1998 Lincoln Town Car limousine was in the far left lane of the expressway when he was blinded by the sun.

The driver was unable to see the traffic lane pattern and struck the end of the jay wall, which caused the limousine to roll over, a statement from police said.

First responders arrived at the scene to find the limo on its roof with two patients still inside and five who managed to get out and were walking around, according to the Elgin Fire Department. An off-duty Streamwood paramedic who had been in the area was providing medical care to the injured.

Four of the patients were initially listed in serious condition and three were in fair condition, fire officials said. Six people were taken to Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin and one person was taken to St. Alexius Medical Center in Hoffman Estates. Schmidt later died of her injured and was pronounced dead at Advocate Sherman Hospital.

The 20-year-old driver and five passengers injured in the crash are all Wisconsin residents, according to police.

Kevin Schmidt, 59, of Monona; Lois Corning, 61, of Verona; Donald Corning, 64, of Verona; Robert Rosa, 53, of Fitchburg; and Michael Johnson, 45, of Fitchburg, Wisconsin, were among those injured.

As of Monday no citations or charges had been filed against the limo driver. An investigation into the crash is expected to last several more days, possibly even weeks, police said.
The NBC Connecticut Responds Hotline helped put money back in viewer George Hunkeles pocket. Hed been fighting for a refund from solar energy company, Solar City.

He told our Consumer Investigative team that he found out he was being charged 1200 kilowatts over his agreed rate for his solar panels.

In an email sent to Solar City, Hunkele, of Hartford, said As I got my bill info over the phone I was told that this was for 1600 kw and the powerguide says I made only 400-500 kw which is one third of the bill number.

Through multiple calls and emails with the company, he says he learned there was a malfunction with his monitoring system.

In another email sent to Solar City, he said I should not be accountable for production that does not match the monitoring system you provided at a time when the entire array was not working right- your technician's words not mine.

Two weeks later, Solar City agreed to credit George on his next bill for the energy he did not produce. He told them that still didnt cover what he says he was overcharged.

So he reached out to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, who then ordered the company to pay the customer $260 for what he was overcharged. Even after that, Hunkele said he still never received that refund.

When our consumer team reached out to Solar City, the company agreed to refund Hunkele the $260 he was owed, which he now has in his pocket.

We still wanted to know though, why he was overcharged.

The inverter installed at Mr. Hunkeles home was not communicating with the monitoring system. Inverter monitoring failures are rare, but we corrected it and compensated the customer to his satisfaction," a spokesperson for Solar City said in a statement.
Danbury firefighters quickly knocked down a 3-alarm fire on Main Street Sunday.

Fire officials say they responded to 111 Main Street around 2:25 p.m. It was reported that people may be trapped in the fourth floor of the building. When fire crews arrived they found smoke and fire showing from the fourth floor, which contained apartments. At that point a third alarm was struck.

Firefighter searched the building and confirmed all occupants had made it out safe. The fire was quickly put out and no injuries to residents or firefighters were reported.

The building contains 24 apartments but crews were able to contain the fire to two apartments on the fourth floor. Eversource cut power to the building and building officials were called in to determine if it is safe for residents to return. The Red Cross is assisting residents with temporary housing.

A total of 46 firefighters responded to the scene. Crews from Ridgefield and New Fairfield responded mutual aid to cover the rest of the city, along with Danbury Volunteer firefighters who were not on scene.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Danbury Fire Departments Marshals Division.


A Bridgeport, Connecticut man accused of murdering his mother and father for money is heading back to court today for a pre-trial hearing.

Kyle Navin, 27, of Bridgeport, is accused of shooting and killing his parents, Jeffrey and Jeanette Navin, of Easton, and he has pleaded not guilty to three counts of murder.

Navin's parents were reported missing on Aug. 4 and their bodies were found in December in the yard of a vacant home in neighboring Weston, which their son had visited before, the property owner told police.

Jeffrey Navin, 56, was president of J&J Refuse in Westport, while Jeannette Navin, 55, was a school aide in Weston.

Kyle Navin is accused of shooting his mother inside his truck and shooting his father in the basement of the Bridgeport home his parents bought him.

The warrant for his arrest says police received an anonymous tip on Aug. 20, days after Kyle Navin's parents disappeared, that he had been thrown out of a back-pain treatment program because he was using heroin, which police confirmed with the pain clinic.

A confidential witness later told investigators that Kyle Navin had been buying $140 worth of heroin a day, and between $300 and $600 a day in the weeks prior.

Police have said they believe Kyle Navin killed his parents for money.

A few days before she vanished, Jeannette Navin told a friend the couple planned to cut Kyle Navin out of their will, sell their trash-hauling business and leave their son without any financial support from the family, according to an affidavit from police.

Jeanette Navin told a longtime acquaintance her relationship with her son had been "very tempestuous" and she suspected him of abusing drugs, according to the affidavit. She also confided that she and her husband had bought Kyle Navin a house, but he was failing to pay the mortgage and taxes.

In May, Kyle Navin allegedly discussed his intentions in text messages with his girlfriend, who has also been charged in connection with the case.

According to the warrant for his arrest, Kyle Navin said they needed to "figure out the best way to take (his parents) down whether it is get some money out of them somehow (expletive) him at the business the house something."

Then, in July, he mentioned a plan to "solve every single problem and give us a wealthy amazing life," according to the warrant. Later in the conversation, he allegedly wrote, "Wipe out the infection and get $ for life. It's perfect plan."

Kyle Navin's text messages also came into play the day his parents disappeared.

According to police, Jeffrey Navin texted his son on Aug. 4  right before he vanished  saying he would not go home until he knew his wife was OK. He also allegedly asked if Kyle Navin hurt his mother.

"No absolutely not. Why would you think," Kyle Navin responded, according to the affidavit.

"I go home and get framed for murder," Jeffrey Navin replied.

"Oh stop," Kyle Navin texted back.

Soon after the exchange, the couple's cellphones went inactive. Five days later, authorities found their pickup with a shattered window in a Westport commuter lot.

Police interviewed the couple's younger son, Taylor, as part of the investigation.

When they told him Kyle Navin was a person of interest, Taylor Navin, who lives in Mississippi, allegedly responded, "When I heard my parents were missing I thought to myself, 'They either went on vacation, or my brother did something to them,'" according to the warrant.

Kyle Navin, who had been in federal prison since an arrest on a separate weapons violation charge on Sept. 8, was charged with two counts of murder and one count of murder with special circumstances.

Kyle Navin also pleaded not guilty to the charge of possession of a firearm by an unlawful user of a controlled substance.

During a prior court appearance for an arraignment, Kyle Navin's attorney, Eugene Riccio, asked the public to reserve judgment.

"It's not a trial, and I think experience has taught all of us that we have reserve our judgment about these situations until all of the facts are known, and I'm asking that that be done," Riccio said.
The owner and employees at the Valencia Liquor and Wine Shop on E. Main St. in Meriden are hoping the public can help identify an alleged thief caught on surveillance camera.

Even with the cameras, she still wasnt afraid to take some bottles, it was really amazing to see that, said an employee who did not want his name used. This kind of brazen activity, brazen illegal activity, hurts the community, hurts small business people, it hurts everyone.

The woman walked into the store around 6 p.m. on Good Friday carrying a large bag, the employee said.



"We request people dont come in with large bags," he said. "She came in with a bag empty and apparently left with it full.

The woman left the store with three to six bottles of top shelf liquor worth about $300, according to store employees.

Owner Marc Rosen told NBC Connecticut she drove off in a Navy blue Nissan Altima with tinted windows.



We try to assist the customers any way we can and to be just violated like this its really nasty, the employee said. "This kind of person needs to be stopped."

At one point in the surveillance video, the woman looks around before she appears to place one of the bottles under jacket in sight of a sign in the store that says "Smile, you are on camera."

Meriden Police are investigating this liquor store theft. If you recognize the woman in the surveillance video, give them a call at (203) 630-6201.
A Capitol police officer shot and injured a man who brought a weapon into the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Monday afternoon, the chief of Capitol Police said.

An officer fired after the man pointed what appeared to be a weapon at him, U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said. The man was wounded and was in surgery Monday afternoon at Washington Hospital Center, where he is listed in critical condition, according to hospital officials.

The U.S. Capitol Police Department said Larry R. Dawson, 66, of Antioch, Tennessee, has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon and assault on a police officer while armed. They said Dawson's vehicle was located near the Capitol and was secured at a separate location.

A female bystander received minor injuries and also was taken to a hospital.

"We believe that this is the act of a single person who has frequented the Capitol grounds before, and there is no reason to believe this is anything more than a criminal act," Verderosa said at a news conference.

The man went through a metal detector at the visitor center, an alarm went off and he pulled out the gun, two sources told News4's Shomari Stone.

"It appears the screening process worked as intended," Verderosa said, noting the suspect has not yet been charged. A weapon was recovered at the scene.

NBC News Pete Williams reported early Monday evening that the weapon was a pellet gun. Dawson was known to U.S. Capitol Police and was a frequent visitor, Williams reported.

Dawson is facing charges for allegedly standing up and shouting Bible verses in October 2015 in the House Chamber Gallery. According to court documents from the Superior Court for the District of Columbia, Dawson identified himself as a Prophet of God to the people in the gallery.

According to the documents, Dawson was removed from gallery and, while being removed from the building, pushed a police officer and began to run. He was caught and charged with assault on a police officer.

A Stay Away Order was issued to Dawson, including a map of the area he was supposed to avoid, which included the U.S. Capitol building and grounds, including all Congressional buildings.

The U.S. Capitol complex was locked down about 3 p.m. The shelter-in-place order was lifted at 3:45 p.m., but the Capitol was open only for official business. The visitor center remained closed.

At first, anyone outside was advised to seek cover immediately, U.S. Capitol police said. The D.C. Police Department later said in an update that there had been an isolated incident and there was no threat to the public.

Visitors were turned away from the Capitol as emergency vehicles flooded the street and the plaza on the building's eastern side. Police, some carrying long guns, cordoned off the streets immediately around the building, which were thick with tourists visiting for spring holidays and the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Initial reports by The Associated Press said a police officer sustained minor injuries. Sources told Williams and Stone that was not the case. Verderosa said no officers were injured.

The visitor center will be open as usual on Tuesday, Verderosa said.

Jill Epstein, executive director of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, told NBC News she was at the visitor center on a lobbying trip to meet a senator when an active shooter was reported.

"I was with a group of my colleagues walking into the visitor center and as we were literally going through the metal detectors, people started screaming, 'Get out! Get out!' We didn't know which way to run. We ran out and and they told us to get against the wall so we were crouching against the wall outside the visitor center, she said.

"Police appeared out of everywhere and they were screaming, 'Run for it! Run for it! Run up that ramp!' And we ran like you see in videos. It was surreal. It was so beautiful out and the cherry blossoms are in bloom and people are running for their lives. It was unsettling and scary," Epstein said.

The witness said one of her colleagues bolted for the door without his watch, wallet or phone, which were still on the conveyor belt of the metal detector.

It's the second time in less than a year that the U.S. Capitol was locked down due to a gun incident. Last April, a 22-year-old from Lincolnwood, Illinois, fatally shot himself on the buildings west front, triggering an hourslong lockdown.

A dental hygienist from Connecticut, Miriam Carey, 34, was shot and killed outside the Capitol Oct. 3, 2013, after police said she tried to ram a temporary security barrier outside the White House with her car and then struck a Secret Service uniformed division officer. She then fled the scene, leading police on a chase.

According to subsequent investigation by the News4 I-team, U.S. Capitol police stopped at least 13 people from carrying guns on or near Capitol grounds from 2012 to 2015.

On July 24, 1998, two U.S. Capitol Police officers were killed after a gunman stormed past a Capitol security checkpoint and opened fire. Officer Jacob J. Chestnut Jr. was fatally shot at the checkpoint, and a tourist was injured in the initial crossfire between the gunman and police. Detective John M. Gibson then told congressional aides to seek cover before exchanging gunfire with the shooter. Gibson was fatally wounded, but police say his actions allowed other officers to subdue the gunman.
Two men were killed in a shooting at an apartment complex in Dallas early Monday morning, police say. [[373700761,C]]

Dallas police said they responded to the Las Brisas Apartment Homes on the 9900 block of Whitehurst Drive at 12:33 a.m. and found 19-year-old Derek Jordan dead from an apparent gunshot wound.

A few minutes later on the 9500 block of Royal Lane, police said paramedics found 18-year-old Julio Gerardo Delarosa had been shot. Dallas Fire-Rescue transported him to Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas where he was pronounced deceased.

Police said they think both men were involved in a drug transaction at the apartment complex.

No further details have been released.
The heads of Dallas' four major police unions are meeting with Mayor Mike Rawlings over growing rank-and-file discontent about scheduling changes and new crime-fighting initiatives.

Meanwhile, President of the Black Police Association of Greater Dallas Thomas Glover confirmed they sent a letter to the city stating the association no longer supports Chief David Brown in his tenure as chief.

"It's a number of things and in the coming days, I'll be outlining them to the African-American community, to the clergy, to the business leaders, the political leaders and to the elected officials. but there are a number of things that have taken place if you read the letter, " Glover said.

NBC 5 was not provided a copy of the letter.

Glover, however, was one of several police union leaders that met at the Dallas Police Association building to discuss concerns.

Violent crime in Dallas is up 30 percent compared to this time last year. All categories of violent crime are up, including violent attacks, assaults and robberies.

But it's the number of murders so far this year that is particularly troubling. There have been 44 homicides in Dallas this year, including two teenagers killed Monday morning in a drug-deal-gone-bad, police say. That is an 86 percent increase from the number of murders this time last year, where there were 24 homicides.

"Eighty-six percent increase in murders in this city, that is unacceptable. And its something we have to address. We have to change schedules. The reality is that these violent crimes are during the evening hours, not during the day hours," said Brown.

In February, Brown adjusted the schedules of hundreds of officers as part of a foot-patrol heavy "community oriented policing" initiative.

Veteran officers and detectives, including some within Brown's command staff, were put back on patrol beats in order to respond to 911 calls and help the backlog of priority crimes.

Brown now says 600 more officers will have their schedules and off-days changed over the next few weeks, even indicating it may not be a temporary move unless the violent crime spike comes to an end.

"Officers will have to be permanently assigned the evening shift if these spikes continue. It wouldnt be a temporary thing," he said. "And thats hard to do, because officers obviously want to earn day shifts and weekends off. But were on a 24-hours-a-day, seven-day-a-week environment of public service."

Brown is aware he has lost support, but he's not backing down.

"The reward of serving this community is so great for me, that its worth the challenges of people asking you to resign," he said, adding that he doesn't have any hard feelings for the unions.

"They are there to protect their officers schedules, thats their job. That job is not the police chiefs job. But the unions are there to advocate for their officers and not have their lives disrupted," he said.

Less than a month ago, Brown moved 170 officers into a new Violent Crime Task Force to combat violent crime. Brown says it's working.

"The violent crime increase went from 30 percent from last year at the start of this month to now 22 percent. So it's going down, but we still have a lot of work to do," he said.

However, he said one challenge that the Violent Crime Task Force is driving the violence to behind closed-doors.

"What the task force has not done is reduce the number of drug-related murders and domestic violence murders. And those murders are happening inside homes. Drug houses and homes. And thats why we need a group just dedicated to serving domestic violence warrants and drug house warrants," Brown said.

To that end, he is creating a new task force with about 170 officers total that will be focused on serving domestic violence warrants and drug-offender warrants.

During a Public Safety Committee meeting, Brown indicated this year's warm weather is partly to blame for the crime surge and slow 911-call response times.

"It's been such a warm year so far," Brown told city council members. "And we're seeing a summertime 911 call volume already, and so the reality is we need to rotate in more officers to evening-shift at every station."

In a Facebook post after the Committee meeting's conclusion, Council Member Philip Kingston seemed incredulous.

"DPD's presentation doesn't add up. Crime is up because the weather's nice? The highest police budget in Dallas's history is insufficient to keep us safe? The results seem to me to expose systemic problems inside the department," he said.

It remains to be seen what will come of the Police Unions' meeting with the mayor.

Rawlings is a big supporter of Brown and frequently calls him the "best big city police chief in America."

City Manager AC Gonzalez has made no indication yet that he will seek the Brown's resignation.

NBC 5's Jocelyn Lockwood contributed to this report.
Malibu has been a part of the Los Angeles mythos for decades, from the potters who set up tile-making shop in the area to the famous Malibu Colony, which has long summoned celebrities to a spectacular strip of beach-close beauty.

And if you played with a Malibu Barbie back in the 1970s -- or served as an extra on one of the many "Gidget"-inspired films that shot around Surfrider Beach back in the '60s -- then you may be surprised to learn that the city is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Officials will mark the official incorporation of Malibu on Monday evening, March 28 at City Hall with a community-big party. Look for "delicious food, commemorative gifts, a live band and the grand opening of the 'Art of the Board' surfboard exhibit!"

It's a fitting tribute to the town to build the bash around a surfboard-themed art show, since surfing, like pottery and beach movies, has become synonymous with Malibu.

Or "The 'Bu," if you prefer. Nicknames for Southern California cities can stick, or not, but that shortening of Malibu's moniker does seem to live on, like a day of endless sunshine and macking waves.

Of course, Malibu isn't just its stunning beaches, or the iconic stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway that wends through, nor those multi-million dollar abodes that face the water; other regularly visited spots include inland wild spots like Malibu Creek State Park, the ancient land of the Chumash, which is technically in Calabasas, just to be perfectly and geographically clear.

Famous restaurants like Geoffrey's, Duke's, Nobu, Moonshadows, and Neptune's Net continue to draw locals and those always-arriving visitors, the people who have to see where Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon romped back in "Beach Party" as well as the spot where the startling close of 1968's "Planet of the Apes" filmed in close to Westward Beach, near Zuma Beach.

Happy 25th, Malibu! May you continue to hang ten over all your days to come.
Rod Blagojevich, the jailed former Illinois Governor who once commanded record pluralities in state elections and even envisioned himself as Presidential timber, saw his longshot-bid for freedom reduced to a rejected list Monday at the United States Supreme Court.

The high court, without comment, turned down Blagojevichs appeal, leaving intact the 14 year sentence he received for, among other things, attempting to make deals for the Senate seat once occupied by President Barack Obama.

Were not surpriseddisappointed, said defense attorney Sam Adam, Jr, who added that he thought the Court had punted an opportunity to clarify the line between political horse-trading and criminal activity. The citizenry has a right to know what politicians can and cant do with campaign contributions, and the Supreme Court missed a prime opportunity to let us, as citizens, know that.

The high court rejection was the last mile of the former governors appellate road, but there is one narrow legal avenue remaining.

Blagojevich was convicted on a total of 18 counts, but last year, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals tossed five of those and ordered that the former governor be re-sentenced. That would appear to be his only avenue of redemption at this stage. But the re-sentencing will come at the hands of the judge who sent him to prison in the first place, United States District Judge James Zagel.

I think the case is very different (now), said appellate attorney Leonard Goodman. I think the judge looks at the person and the case thats before him.

It has been widely believed that Zagel was waiting for the Supreme Court to act, before scheduling Blagojevichs resentencing. But even that proceeding may offer little solace for the former governor, as the appellate court provided plenty of cover for Zagel to keep the present sentence intact.

It is not possible to call 168 months unlawfully high for Blagojevichs crimes, they wrote, but the district judge should consider on remand whether it is the most appropriate sentence.

Goodman disagreed. After all, he noted, the five counts overturned by the appellate court, were key to some of the most bombastic allegations.

Really some of the most sensational allegations, that he tried to make this illegal deal with Barack Obama, those are gone, he said, because the government says those were not a crime.

Goodman said he hoped Zagel would see Blagojevich as a very different person than the overconfident, some would say unrepentant politician who appeared before him five years ago.

Hes worked, he said. Hes helped other prisoners. Theres a stack of letters the judge will have.

Blagojevich has been neither seen, nor heard, since he surrendered to the Federal Correctional Facility in Englewood, Colorado four years ago. Last August, he released a statement through his attorneys, expressing hope that he would one day be vindicated.

These have been hard years for my familyfor our children and for my wife, Patti and me, he wrote. Yet we continue to have faith in the truth; in the righteousness of our cause; in the rule of law and in America; in each other; and, most of all, in God.

Blagojevich declared in that statement I must fight on.

For his part, Adam said he believed even those who didnt support Blagojevich as governor, felt he got a raw deal.

Most people come up to me and say I never liked Governor Blagojevich, but what he got was too much, Adam said. I believe most folks, looking back now and seeing what happened and hearing it, do not believe criminal activity was afoot.

Ironically, Blagojevich may have one more opportunity before the Supreme Court. Since the high court did not give a reason for rejecting his case, it may have come down to a simple question of whether he had exhausted all avenues at the trial court level.

Depending what happens when he returns to Zagels court, that means he could potentially appeal that sentence again.

Former First Lady Patti Blogojevich said she continues to hold out hope.

This was, of course, not the outcome that Rod, our daughters Amy and Annie, had hoped and prayed for, she said. But we continue to have faith in the system and an unshakable love for Rod.

Blagojevich has eight years remaining on Zagels original 14 year sentence. He is due to be released in May of 2024.
Six Cuban migrants found in the water off Key West suffering from gunshot wounds will likely be able to stay in the United States, according to the Coast Guard.

A seventh migrant was also injured by gunfire but didn't need to be hospitalized. The injured migrants were traveling with 19 others who were not wounded. They were taken to local hospitals after they were found Saturday afternoon, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The 20 uninjured migrants will most likely be returned to Cuba, the Coast Guard said.

One of the men, Yassier Cabrera, was reunited with his family in Miami Gardens Sunday. He said it was his seventh time trying to make the journey to the United States.

"It was always my dream," Cabrera told NBC 6 in Spanish Sunday.

On Monday, husband and wife Denny Rumbaut and Yarelys Rios answered questions about their risky journey.

The couple said seconds before boarding a raft in Matanzas, Cuba, people started shooting at them to steal their vessel.

"Even though we were injured, we decided to keep going, we boarded the raft, and then decided to at least make it to American waters so the Coast Guard could render aid," Rumbaut said.

Rios, who is 16 weeks pregnant, said she was very nervous but decided to continue. She said they survived many hours at sea by holding shirts over the wounds.

Officials said the group was traveling on a makeshift raft.

In a statement, the Coast Guard warned against making such an "extremely dangerous" journey that "could lead to loss of life."

"U.S. Coast Guard works hard to ensure the safety of migrants on our cutters after an interdiction and strongly discourages attempts to illegally enter the country by taking to the sea," the statement said.

Earlier this year, authorities said Cuban migrants desperate to reach U.S. shores had become increasingly violent and noncompliant with Coast Guard crews who detained them at sea, citing reports of attempted poisoning and self-inflicted wounds amid rumors that the "wet-foot, dry-foot'' policy will soon be abandoned.
Jacopo Raule/Getty Images(NEW YORK) -- U2 frontman Bono is using his spotlight to shine a light on the plight of refugees, calling the refugee crisis a "global problem."



"We now know that what goes on in the Middle East or North Africa this year will spill onto the streets of Paris or Brussels next year and, God forbid, onto the streets of America," Bono said Monday on ABC News' Good Morning America, referring to recent terrorist attacks in Brussels and Paris.



"We cannot separate ourselves from whats going on in the outside world anymore. Its our world. Thats whats come with globalization," he said. "With global impact, weve got responsibilities."



The 55-year-old rocker spoke to GMA from the Zaatari refugee camp in Jordan, home to approximately 80,000 refugees, mostly from Syria.



"The government here has told us they think one-quarter of their population are refugees," Bono said. "Their generosity is right at its elastic limit."



"We need to get behind them and countries like them that are looking after us and trying to represent our values and I think thats very important for Americans to here, that they have an ally in Jordan," he said.



Bono is working with the One campaign he co-founded to activate the group's seven million members to help and encourage others to act.



The musician has taken to Instagram to document his experiences meeting with refugees. Bono and his U2 bandmates have also highlighted the crisis while on tour, showing footage of refugees on concert screens.



The band's message is that if a solution is not found for the refugee crisis, Europe will be no more.



"If what happened in Syria were, God forbid, to happen again to another country, its happening already in Libya but, God forbid, Nigeria, Europe is no longer viable," Bono said on GMA. "Thats a big problem for America."



"As well as being a big trade partner, Europe is Americas greatest ally," he said. "Jordan, where Im standing, is a really critical ally of America and, as it happens, a lesson of grace in the way theyre treating the refugee crisis."



As Bono spoke at the refugee camp, children could be seen running and playing behind him.



"Remember, all these kids, all these lives, they want to be friends of America. They want to be friends of liberty," Bono said. "These places can be sort of universities in teaching people our values or else they can be places that aredangerous to our ideas and who we are so lets take the first course, not the second."

Copyright  2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
Amateur video appearing to show an Israeli soldier killing an already wounded Palestinian attacker sparked uproar in Israel on Sunday, reflecting the deep divisions in the country following six months of violence.

As the Israeli military pressed on with an investigation, nationalistic politicians accused the army of abandoning the soldier, while political doves bemoaned the erosion of the nation's morals. Palestinians, meanwhile, said the shooting proved their claims that Israel is guilty of using excessive force and carrying out extrajudicial killings.

The shooting took place last Thursday in Hebron, the volatile West Bank city that has been a focal point of the latest wave of Israeli-Palestinian violence. The military said two Palestinians stabbed and wounded an Israeli soldier before troops shot and killed the pair.

In a video released by the Israeli human rights group B'Tselem, one of the attackers appears to still be alive after the initial shooting. The video, taken by a Palestinian volunteer for the group, shows the wounded attacker lying on the ground, slowly moving his head. About a minute later, a soldier raises his rifle, cocks the weapon and fires. Blood is then seen streaming from the Palestinian's head.

The Israeli military quickly arrested the soldier and opened an investigation into what it said appeared to be a "grave breach" of its values. A military court has ordered the soldier to remain held until Tuesday while the investigation continues.

Military officials also have cast doubt on the soldier's claim that he believed the Palestinian was carrying explosives.

On Sunday night, B'Tselem released a second video it says shows the same soldier at the scene shaking hands with Baruch Marzel, a well-known ultranationalist, after the shooting.

Lt. Col. Peter Lerner, a military spokesman, said a preliminary investigation found the soldier arrived on the scene some six minutes after the initial incident, and that the second shooting occurred several minutes after that. "There was no apparent threat from the Palestinian that was incapacitated," Lerner said.

He said that commanders had already reported the shooting to their superiors before the video emerged. "There was already a military police investigation. We already knew the behavior was not in line with the code of conduct and ethics," he said.

The Israeli media, citing military officials, quoted the soldier as saying the Palestinian "deserved to die."

Lerner said three officers at the scene were reprimanded for not giving medical attention to the wounded Palestinian, as is required under military policy.

The sister of the soldier, who was not identified, accused the military of publicly convicting her brother, and several nationalistic lawmakers came to his defense, accusing detractors of abandoning him before he was given a fair hearing.

"Have we lost our minds? We're at war. War against vicious terrorism," said Naftali Bennett, leader of the hardline Jewish Home party. He said the shooting should be investigated, but criticized politicians and the media for rushing to condemn the soldier.

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beitenu, asked to meet the soldier in prison and accused the prime minister of looking for the support of the "bleeding hearts."

Over the weekend, hundreds of people protested in support of the soldier outside the prison, and posters surfaced denouncing his critics, including the military chief and defense minister.

In a Facebook post, Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon accused unnamed politicians of "a campaign of incitement" against the military leadership. "The sane elements in Israel, on the right and the left, must unite against this evil wind and stop it," he said.

Sima Kadmon, a commentator for the Yediot Ahronot daily, criticized the social media posts defending the soldier, and also lashed out at the apparent apathy shown by soldiers in the video after the Palestinian was shot.

But she said "the most troubling thing is the politicians who rushed to the defense of the shooter, even though top military officials, who are far more familiar with the circumstances of the incident and the findings of the inquiry, have called this for what it is: murder."

Addressing his Cabinet on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the shooting was not reflective of the military's conduct and rejected criticism of the armed forces' morals as "outrageous and unacceptable." But he also defended the military against its right-wing critics. "We must all support the IDF chief of staff, the IDF and our soldiers, who safeguard our security," he said.

The shooting came amid a six-month wave of Palestinian stabbings, shootings and car-ramming attacks that has killed 28 Israelis and two Americans. Over the same time, at least 188 Palestinians have died by Israeli fire. Israel says most were attackers, and the rest died in clashes with Israeli security forces.

Israel blames the attacks on incitement by Palestinian leaders and social media. Palestinians say the violence stems from frustration at nearly five decades of Israeli military occupation.

The Palestinians have also accused Israel of using excessive force and killing assailants who have already been stopped or wounded. A handful of amateur videos supporting the Palestinian claims have emerged in recent months, but Thursday's killing of Palestinian Abdel-Fattah al-Sharif was perhaps the clearest so far.

"The way al-Sharif was killed is very common, but this time we had the camera to film the extra-judicial killing," said Jamal Zakout, director of Al-Ard, a Palestinian think tank in the West Bank town of Ramallah. He said the Palestinians could use the killing as a "good example" in their appeal for "international protection" from Israel.

Ben Caspit, a liberal commentator with the Maariv daily, said Israel must protect its "moral backbone."

"The Israeli army is not an army that carries out extrajudicial executions," he said. "It must not be such an army. On that day, we will know what we have lost. Unfortunately, we are not far off from that loss."

Associated Press writers Ian Deitch in Jerusalem and Mohammed Daraghmeh in Ramallah, West Bank, contributed to this report.
The nation's top health officials are stepping up calls to require doctors to log in to pill-tracking databases before prescribing painkillers and other high-risk drugs.



The move is part of a multi-pronged strategy by the Obama administration to tame an epidemic of abuse and death tied to opioid painkillers like Vicodin and OxyContin. But physician groups see the proposed requirement to check the databases as overly burdensome, another time-consuming task that takes away from patient care.



Helping push the administration's effort forward is an unusual, multi-million dollar lobbying campaign funded by a former corporate executive who has turned his attention to fighting addiction.



"Their role is to say what needs to be done, my role is to get it done," says Gary Mendell, CEO of the non-profit Shatterproof, which is lobbying in state capitals to tighten prescribing standards for addictive drugs.



Mendell founded the group in 2011, after his son committed suicide following years of addiction to painkillers. Previously Mendell was CEO of HEI Hotels and Resorts, which operates upscale hotels. To date, Mendell has invested $4.1 million of his own money in the group to hire lobbyists, public relations experts and 12 full-time staffers.



A new report from Shatterproof lays out key recommendations to improve prescription monitoring systems, which are currently used in 49 states.



The systems collect data on prescriptions for high-risk drugs that can be viewed by doctors and government officials to spot suspicious patterns. The aim is to stop "doctor shopping," where patients rack up multiple prescriptions from different doctors, either to satisfy their own drug addiction or to sell on the black market. But in most states, doctors are not required to use the systems.



Last week, the White House sent letters to all 50 U.S. governors recommending that they require doctors to check the databases and require pharmacists to upload drug dispensing data on a daily basis.



Prescription drug monitoring databases are "a proven tool for reducing prescription drug misuse and diversion," said Michael Botticelli, the White House's drug czar, in a statement.



But government health officials also say that virtually all state systems need improvements, including more up-to-date information.



"There isn't yet a single state in the country that has an optimal prescription drug monitoring program that works in real time, actively managing every prescription," said Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in a press conference last week.



Physicians warn about the unintended consequences of mandating use of programs that can be slow and difficult to use. Patients may face longer waits and less time with their physicians, says Dr. Steven Stack, president of the American Medical Association.



"There really is a patient safety and quality-of-care cost when you mandate the use of tools that are not easy to use," Sacks said.



The report from Shatterproof highlights the gaps in current prescribing systems. When doctors are not required to log in, they generally only do so 14 percent of the time, according to data from Brandeis University.



The report points to positive results in seven states that have mandated database usage: Kentucky, New York, Tennessee, Connecticut, Ohio, Wisconsin and Massachusetts. In Kentucky, deaths linked to prescription opioids fell 25 percent after the state required log-ins in 2012, along with other steps designed to curb inappropriate prescribing.



The same information can be used to prevent deadly drug interactions between opioids and other common medications, including anti-anxiety drugs like Valium and Xanax.



Opioids are highly addictive drugs that include both prescription painkillers like codeine and morphine, as well as illegal narcotics, primarily heroin. Deaths linked to opioid misuse and abuse have increased fourfold since 1999 to more than 29,000 in 2014, the highest figure on record, according to the CDC.



Earlier this month the CDC released the first-ever national guidelines for prescribing opioids, urging doctors to first try non-opioid painkillers, physical therapy and other methods for treating chronic pain.



But pain specialists fear requiring pill-tracking databases will discourage doctors from prescribing the drugs even when appropriate, leaving patients in pain. Dr. Gregory Terman says it takes him three minutes to log-in to the system used in his home state of Washington.



"If it was easier to use, more people would use it," said Terman, who is president of the American Pain Society, a group which accepts money from pain drugmakers. Like many physicians, Terman says he supports the technology but doesn't think it should be required.



Last week, two states targeted by Shatterproof signed into law database-checking requirements: Massachusetts and Wisconsin. Mendell says his staffers are now lobbying in California and Maryland.



"I don't think we can afford to wait decades for this to slowly get implemented into the system," he says. "I think we need to take action now."

NBC10 recently spent nearly half a year exploring the tragic world of the heroin and opioid epidemic in the Philadelphia region and beyond. Learn more in our special report, Generation Addicted, here.
A cat was found dead of a gunshot wound in South Philadelphia over the weekend, and the Pennsylvania SPCA is offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible for killing the animal.



PSPCA Officials said a resident found the cat's body on Cantrell Street near 5th on Saturday and contacted authorities. Humane law enforcement officers recovered the body and took it to PSPCA headquarters on Erie Avenue, where it was discovered that the animal had been shot to death.



The PSPCA is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the cat's death. Authorities are continuing to investigate.



Tips can be made anonymously by calling the PSPCA's cruelty hotline at 866-601-SPCA (7722).
Note: Please leave your own pup at home when visiting The Dog Cafe. It's a place for meeting adoptable dogs only.

While cat cafes hold paw-ferful, tail-swishing sway in several parts of the world, finding a dog cafe, a place where you can have a sip of something cool and visit with a cute canine, remains a rarer beast.

But pup people have been following the pursuits of Sarah Wolfgang, a passionate advocate for our furry friends, especially those in need of a home. The longtime volunteer, who has been involved with dog rescue for many years, wanted to open America's first dog cafe in Los Angeles, a goal that received wide local attention via a "Pup-up" event in early 2015.

Ms. Wolfgang's dream of drinks, dogs, and the happy atmosphere created by both had an early start. Her interest in these lively destinations flowered when her family moved to Korea, which is home to many cafes that invite patrons to socialize with on-site animals. She saw the bonds formed, and how both person and pooch benefited from the interaction.

Now the animal advocate's dream is about to flower further: On Thursday, April 7, after many months of fund-raising and preparation, The Dog Cafe will make its debut in Silver Lake.

Look for extreme romping and cuddling to go down at 240 N. Virgil Avenue. As for days and hours? Trot for the spot Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 o'clock. You can reserve your spot in advance, which might be a good idea, as many a dogist will be ready to get some on-the-floor huggy time.

Because dog cafes are new-ish, at least 'round these parts, you may have questions. Like, is the beverage-serving area in the same room as the pups? It is not, but rather in "an adjacent space next door."

There is also an admission of ten dollars, which nets you both time with the hounds and a lemonade, tea, or coffee ("or a discount off a specialty beverage"). Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. and Dogs Drink Coffee are the outfits behind the java. A portion of all proceeds will go "to animals in need."

A note: The Dog Cafe is open to kids 5 and older, but all youths between the ages of 5 and 17 must visit the cafe with a parent or legal guardian.

Retail from The Dog Company will also be sold at the cafe.

As for falling in love with one of the rescues? That could very well happen. Ms. Wolfgang is working with many regional shelters to find those Fidos "who would best benefit from socialization at The Dog Cafe." It's a good point to remember, as petting a pooch isn't simply a sweet but unimportant thing to do. You'll be lending some needed love to an animal who craves it, and who may come further out of his shell because of a show of kindness.

It's big-hearted stuff, and it is preparing to bark for joy in Silver Lake.
American University President Neil Kerwin says he will step down as president next year.

Kerwin says he will step down when his current contract with the school ends on May 30, 2017, according to a letter addressed the school's students and staff.

"My years in this role have been enormously rewarding, but now the time is right for the university, and for me, to begin the process of transition," Kerwin said.

Kerwin has served as the university's president for 12 years. He says he will take a sabbatical leave when he leaves offices, but will eventually return to the university's faculty.

Plans to find Kerwin's successor will be shared next week.
A student who said he was wrongly expelled from George Mason University for engaging in consensual, sadomasochistic sex has won a federal lawsuit demanding his reinstatement.

The student, who is identified only as John Doe in the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Alexandria, was expelled in 2014. His ex-girlfriend said she was sexually assaulted, but the expelled student said administrators ignored evidence that they had been in a consensual relationship that featured bondage and sadomasochism. The student said administrators also wrongly overruled a Sexual Misconduct Board that had exonerated him.

Judge T.S. Ellis ruled in favor of the student in an opinion issued last month and ordered him reinstated. But a hearing is scheduled for Friday to determine whether the student could be subject to a new round of disciplinary hearings at the university.

The student enrolled at GMU as a freshman in 2012, according to court records, and began a relationship with a female student at another university that lasted for more than a year. After they broke up, the ex-girlfriend told school officials and police about what she considered in hindsight to be sexual assaults.

In the fall of 2014, a three-person Sexual Misconduct Board exonerated the student after holding a 10-hour hearing, but the ex-girlfriend appealed that finding. Brent Ericson, an assistant dean of students, appointed himself to hear the appeal, and ordered the student's expulsion.

In his ruling, Ellis said the appeals process was not conducted fairly, and said Ericson had already made up his mind to expel the student before even hearing the male student's side of the story,

Ellis rejected a broader challenge that claimed George Mason's policies on sexual misconduct wrongly classified all sadomasochistic sex as a violation.

"Sexual activity that involves binding and gagging or the use of physical force such as spanking or choking poses certain inherent risks to personal safety not present in more traditional types of sexual activity," Ellis wrote.

As a result, he said, states have a legitimate interest in regulating the activity, and individuals do not have a constitutional right to engage in it.

Justin Dillon, one of the student's lawyers, said it is rare for a college student to win reinstatement in federal court for an expulsion over sexual misconduct. Because there is so little precedent, Dillon said it's all the more important that the judge fashion a remedy that will deter George Mason and other schools from trampling on students' rights.

The judge has already barred the student from collecting any monetary damages, so Dillon is asking that the student be reinstated and that George Mason be barred from re-litigating his client's alleged misconduct.

"Mr. Doe just wants to go back to college and get his degree like any other student, without having to look over his shoulder at what Defendants might do to him next," Dillon wrote.

But the university's lawyers say they should be allowed to hold another hearing. The school says it has an obligation to keep its campus safe, and that there are numerous reasons to believe this particular student could pose a threat.

In court papers, the university says there was evidence at the hearings that the expelled student went beyond the agreed parameters of his sexual relationship, sometimes continuing to engage in sexual activity even after the girlfriend had invoked a safe word.

And the student had a record of disciplinary problems  he was taken to a counselor as a freshman after someone noticed he had carved "kill them" onto his knuckles, and had also been punished for carrying a "skinning knife" and blackjack on campus.

"It doesn't matter what Mr. Doe was charged with, whether it is assault, sexual misconduct, arson, or drug distribution, the most appropriate remedy would be to remit the matter back to the school for a new hearing," Assistant Attorney General David Drummey wrote in his brief on behalf of GMU.
"Paper or plastic?" will soon be an unnecessary question in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Starting Thursday, businesses cannot hand out plastic shopping bags to customers, and paper bags will cost at least 10 cents each.

"I think its just ridiculous, theyre going to start charging you for a receipt next, you know, because its on paper?" said Eric Pedro of Somerville.

The city hopes instead of paying the fee, which stays with each individual business, shoppers will remember to bring re-usable bags to the checkout line.

Stickers are up all over Cambridge warning shoppers of the upcoming change, which officials say will greatly benefit the environment.

"We consume about 12 million barrels of oil every year to produce 100 million plastic bags and often times they end up in the water or being incinerated and that has an effect on our environment," points out Cambridges Waste Reduction Program Manager Michael Orr.

Liz Dunn, who grew up in the Boston area but now lives in the Bay Area, is used to similar bans in California.

"People seem pretty chill about it," she says.

She adds that the problem there is that each city has its own bag rules, making it confusing for shoppers.

Now thats happening here too, with different bans already in effect in Newton and Brookline, and no ban in most other cities and towns.

"Somerville needs to adopt this too. I go to Market Basket, they come out with grocery carts full of bags, groceries, plastic bags, its such a waste," says Donna Erickson of Cambridge.

State wide plastic bag bans have been proposed in the past, but so far have failed to gain traction.

Cambridge hopes it can serve as a model for the rest of the state.

Any establishment that does not comply with this new ordinance faces a fine of $300.
A young girl who drowned after falling into a pond in West Newbury, Massachusetts, on Easter Sunday has been identified.

The Essex County District Attorney's Office said 2-year-old Elizabeth Dayter, was visiting family friends in West Newbury and had recently moved to Amesbury. Her death remains under investigation, but is not considered to be suspicious.

"This is a terrible tragedy for our community," West Newbury Police Chief Art Reed said Monday. "On behalf of the entire town of West Newbury, I offer my most sincere condolences to the family of Elizabeth Dayter."

Emergency personnel responded to a report that a child had fallen into Mill Pond around 12:48 p.m. on Sunday. The caller told police dispatchers that the girl had been pulled from the pond and CPR was being performed.

West Newbury Police arrived on scene and continued CPR. The child was then transported to Anna Jacques Hospital in Newburyport, where she was later pronounced dead.
What's supposed to be a cherished Easter tradition turned into a mess after pushy parents caused a scene at egg hunts in Connecticut and Vermont over the weekend.

Saturday's event at the visitor center of candy company Pez in Orange, Connecticut, drew hundreds of people, some of whom ignored the rules.

Pez General Manager Shawn Peterson said the parents "took over," flooding the kids only fields and going on to the next hunt before the designated start times. The signs on each field were taken or trampled on, he said.



Event organizers placed more than 9,000 eggs on three fields with the intention of having staggered start times for each age group. But Pez officials say parents didn't wait.

"I take this personally," Peterson said. "It was a fun thing up until this point."



Pez in a statement apologized for "an unfortunate situation," adding that the actions of a few turned the event into "a mess." They said the number of families that turned out "far exceeded" anything they could have planned for.



People who attended the hunt took to Facebook to comment on the event, calling it "a joke" and blaming "greedy parents" for ruining the hunt. The event ended early. No injuries were reported.

"My grandson ended up with a bloody (nose) from an ADULT in the 9-12 year old section knocking into him!!!! Where was PEZ personnel?? Where was the safety of our children in your thought process??" Jennifer Barden-Moore said.

"Shame on you Pez," said Molly Corcoran. "This has to be the most disorganized Easter egg hunt I have ever attended... It was utter chaos. I have never seen so many crying children in my life."

Nicole Welch said she was separated from her 4-year-old son and later found him in tears. "It was ridiculous," she said. "The parents were literally a poster for everything not to do."

"Somebody pushed me over and take my eggs and it's very rude of them and they broke my bucket," Welch's son, Vincent, added.

"My kids stood there patiently when all of a sudden a swarm of adults just overhwelmed my kids and left that with 2 eggs and tears," added Mario Colon. "This was a debacle..."

Joe Tomaso said his 4-year-old grandson was trampled, and parents taking eggs out of his basket. He likened the event to a "riot."

In Proctor, Vermont, police were called to an overbooked Easter egg hunt Saturday at Wilson Castle after someone reported "multiple irate parents." Organizers say they pre-sold 550 tickets but around 1,500 guests showed up. Some parents asked for their money back due to the long wait times and lack of Easter eggs.



Michael Cuthbertson, 34, of Newbury, Vermont, turned his anger toward police, allegedly threatening them before fleeing. A foot chase ensued, and police used pepper spray to subdue him. He was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest and is expected to appear in court on Monday. Cuthbertson did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Several parents posted about their experience on Wilson Castle's Facebook page. Some said they had fun despite the problems. Others said there's no way they'd ever go back.

"This was a disaster," said Lisa Marie. "Had to leave - worst planning for an event I have ever seen."

"Never go to the wilson castle for the Easter egg hunt," said Kasey Schultz. "Total joke and 7 cops and an ambulance for people fightin we got out of there and never going back waste of money."

"Despite it being a total flop (and ending in fights, police, handcuffs, pepper spray and an ambulance) our boys managed to have a good time," said Jennifer Vargas Bessette.


Christians gather at Fishley for Easter sunrise Christians gather at Fishley for Easter sunrise

2016: On Easter Sunday morning about 30 members of Acle Churches Together assembled for their traditional annual Sunrise Service St Mary's Church, Fishley.

Prayers and hymns were led by Rev Martin Greenland, Rev Steve Cullis, Rev Canon Nicholas Garrard and Rev Helen Garrard from around 6am.



The congregation then processed outside to the grounds of this Saxon church to partake in communion.



Finally everybody accepted a kind invitation from Steve Cullis to enjoy breakfast at the Methodist church hall.



John Kenny said: It was gratifying to see such a sizeable cross-section of faiths (including Catholics, Methodists and Anglicans) demonstrating the ideals of ecumenism despite the inclement weather and the fact that the event coincided with the clocks being advanced by one hour.



Pictured above is the Easter sunrise service at Fishley.
A Norwich educational charity, set up in memory of a Norwich Anglican priest, to support students from a Palestinian refugee camp, is inviting people to support its Christmas appeal  to be launched on November 29.

A Norwich educational charity, set up in memory of a Norwich Anglican priest, to support students from a Palestinian refugee camp, is inviting people to support its Christmas appeal  to be launched on November 29.

Norfolk drug and alcohol charity pays tribute to its founder Andy Sexton, CEO of the Matthew Project, introduces a series of tributes from the charity to its founder, Peter Farley. Read more

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
Microsoft will kick off its fifth annual //Build/ developer conference in San Francisco March 30, and just days before the event has published a full list of sessions for the show.

Build is a merging of the old Professional Developer Conference, Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) and MIX and has been a huge success. This year's event sold out in record time; under five minutes.

The main keynote will be held at 8:30 am, which is when the biggest news is liable to come. Rumor has it that new live tiles for Windows 10 and big Azure news will lead the way, but there will also likely be news around Windows 10, Xbox One, the Universal Windows Platform, and more.

As it is, Microsoft has three major server product releases this year: Windows Server 2016, SQL Server 2016, and SharePoint 2016. Plus it has to prime the pump for "Redstone," the major update to Windows 10. So there's a lot to cover.

There will also be some mobility news, as Windows 10 Mobile should be rolling out and developers will likely want to hear what Microsoft has to say about Xamarin, a popular development platform for building apps across smartphone platforms that Microsoft acquired last month.

I also expect Terry Myerson and Gabe Aul are going to get an earful about those unauthorized Windows 10 upgrades that have been taking place. While they deserve it, I hope we don't see behavior usually seen at a Donald Trump rally.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Mostly clear skies this evening will give way to occasional showers overnight. Low 61F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Mostly clear skies this evening will give way to occasional showers overnight. Low 61F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
When contact lenses work really well, you forget they are on your eyes. You might not feel the same at the end of a long day staring at a computer screen. After too many hours of wear, the lenses and your eyes dry out, causing irritation that might outweigh the convenience of contacts.

Stanford researchers hope to alleviate this pain by both advancing the understanding of how natural tears keep our eyes comfortable, and developing a machine for designing better contact lenses.

The work was inspired in part by a graduate student's dry eyes.

"As a student, I had to stop wearing lenses due to the increased discomfort," said Saad Bhamla, a Stanford postdoctoral scholar in bioengineering who conducted the work as a graduate student in Gerald Fuller's chemical engineering laboratory at Stanford. "Focusing my PhD thesis to understand this problem was both a personal and professional goal."

Bhamla isn't alone. More than 30 million Americans currently wear contacts, but roughly half of them switch back to glasses because of contact lens-induced symptoms such as dry eye. Bhamla and Fuller suspected that most of the discomfort arises from the break up of the tear film, a wet coating on the surface of the eye, during a process called dewetting. They found that the lipid layer, an oily coating on the surface of the tear film, protects the eye's surface in two important ways - through strength and liquid retention. By mimicking the lipid layer in contact construction, millions of people could avoid ocular discomfort.

In their most recent study, Bhamla and his co-authors outline two functions of the lipid layer. One is to provide mechanical strength to the tear film. Lipids in this layer have viscoelastic properties that allow them to stretch and support the watery layer beneath them.

Bhamla likens this protective lipid layer to a swimming pool cover. You can't run on the open water, but even a thin tarp can provide mechanical strength to support a person's weight.

"You will sometimes see the guards at the Stanford Avery pool run over the surface of the covered pool," Bhamla said. "The mechanical structure is very thin, but it protects the whole bulk of the liquid. If the swimming pool is shrunk to 1/100th the width of a hair, it is a good representation of the tear film with a lipid layer replacing the tarp."

The lipid layer also prevents the tear film from evaporating away. Eyes are roughly 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius), which is usually warmer than the ambient air. Like any liquid on a hot surface, the eye is constantly heating its liquid coating and losing moisture to the air.

"We recognized early-on that the fluid mechanical responses of the lipid layer were just as important as the conventional view that its role was to control evaporative loss," Fuller said. "And it's been gratifying to realize that the combined role of these two forces is now accepted."

The key to producing comfortable contact lenses, then, involves designing lenses that don't destabilize the tear film. Manufacturers recognize the importance of protecting the eye's natural tear film on a contact lens surface to minimize painful symptoms such as dry eye, but it is not an easy thing to measure.

"Some people are studying contact lenses by holding them up to a light, dipping them in water, and looking at them to see if the tear film breaks up," Bhamla said. "We felt we could definitely do better than that."

To solve this, Bhamla and Fuller built a device that mimics the surface of the eye. The machine, called the Interfacial Dewetting and Drainage Optical Platform or i-DDrOP, reproduces a tear film on the surface of a contact lens. It allows both scientists and manufacturers to systematically handle the unique array of variables that affect the tear film, including temperature, a variety of substances, humidity and the way gravity acts along a curved surface.

With the ability to accurately recreate a tear film on the contact lens surface and test how quickly it breaks up, manufacturers are now armed with the tools to make a more comfortable lens that protects users from the painful side effects of wearing contacts. Even Bhamla may trade in his glasses for a new pair of lipid-protected eyewear.
Porvair Sciences reports that a major Pharmaceutical company based in France has integrated its Ultravap Mistral blowdown evaporation system with a Hamilton Star robotic liquid handling system to enhance new drug candidate processing in its medicinal chemistry department.

Using the Ultravap Mistral the pharmaceutical scientists have been able to remove the traditional bottleneck of solvent evaporation from microplates by automated this time consuming step. Set-up for unattended operation the Ultravap Mistral performs an evaporation every 20 minutes, and after each cycle, the level of liquid is checked by the robot and the needle depth is automatically modified to be about 1cm above the liquid.

The Ultravap Mistral has been designed to allow robots with standard gripper arms to place and remove microplates directly onto its shuttle platform. Through the advanced software on the Ultravap Mistral, scientists are able not only to control all required robotic liquid handling functions but also to program evaporation at a suitable rate for each solvent type.

Designed to be automation-friendly, the Ultravap Mistral gives significant throughput advantages to laboratories looking to optimise microplate sample preparation. Faster than centrifugal evaporation for single plates, significant increases in sample throughput are achieved through advanced evaporator head technology and an innovative manifold design, which directly injects heated nitrogen into each individual well of the microplate simultaneously. Installation requires only connection to a gas supply and mains electricity. Safety of operation is ensured as this CE-marked compact unit fits into all fume cupboards and boasts full integral fume management within the unit.
Mothers in Norfolk, UK, who are about to give birth will be the first in the country to be offered an ultrasound scan in order to help spot breech babies before they are born.

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH), located in the East of England, currently delivers 6,000 babies a year including around 150 full term breech babies. It has now been given funding under an NHS safety campaign to provide 25 hand-held scanners that will mean safer births for women who had no idea their baby was not in a head down position.

The Vscan, developed by GE Healthcare, is a handheld, pocket-sized ultrasound tool that provides real-time black-and-white anatomic and colour-coded blood flow images at the touch of a button. The easy-to-use device provides a non-invasive look inside the body that can help speed up diagnostic decisions for a wide range of patients. Its small size and light weight when compared to traditional ultrasound equipment also means staff at NNUH can carry their Vscan from patient to patient with ease.

As part of the pilot scheme 190 midwives at NNUH are currently in the process of being trained to use and interpret the scanners. Then there will be one in every delivery room and two on the antenatal ward and midwife led birthing unit.

A late diagnosis during labour that the baby is in a breech position often leads to an increased likelihood of an emergency caesarean sections and other complications. Jo Keable, Practice Development Midwife, explained that traditionally, the midwifes skill at palpating or feeling for the babys position is 70% effective. Now equipped with a Vscan, Jos confident that the NNUH team can deliver a 100% diagnosis rate of any breech problems.

We will be scanning all the women arriving during labour and those who come in for induction. When we discover a breech early on it means a woman can speak to an obstetrician and discuss options in relation to her individual needs. Some of them can go on to give birth normally and others may decide to have a caesarean.

Jo went on to explain that babies normally turn head down ready for birth around 33 weeks. If they havent turned by labour then the birth can be more difficult and more distressing for the baby.

Consultant Obstetrician Martin Cameron said:
Maxine Hong Kingston, author of The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts, is set to accept Randolph Colleges Pearl S. Buck Award at a special ceremony at the school on April 20.

The college is reinstating the award in honor of its 125th anniversary this year.

Kingston is a Chinese American writer, known especially for works blending the stories of her family members experiences in the United States with Chinese folklore.

Shes previously accepted the National Medal of Arts and the National Humanities Medal, among other awards.

Pearl S. Buck graduated from Randolph-Macon Womans College in 1914 and went on to write novels including the bestseller The Good Earth, which follows the adult life of fictional Chinese farmer Wang Lung. It won the Pulitzer Prize in 1932.

The award is significant to us because Pearl S. Buck demonstrates all the greatest qualities of a Randolph education in her novels and her renown as a Nobel prize winner, President Bradley Bateman said Thursday.

Kingston, he said, stood out among nominees shared with him by the committee he formed to help with the award.

In a way, he said, she is a mirror to Buck, an American writer who spent most of her childhood and a significant portion of her adulthood in China, and wrote about life in China and Chinese experiences there.

Maxine is known as a pioneer, he further elaborated in a news release from the school. In the 1970s when she began writing The Woman Warrior, understanding and knowledge of Asian-American culture was not widespread. Maxine helped introduce the world to the stories of these immigrants and their children, and through her writing helped shape a national conversation about culture, race, and gender.

He said hes read, China Men, her also-acclaimed companion book to Woman Warrior.

She is a beautiful writer; she evokes the experiences of people in their everyday lives very beautifully, he said, adding he looks forward to meeting her.

The 7:30 p.m. ceremony is set to take place in Randolphs Smith hall and is open to the public. Kingston is expected to speak.

According to the college, the Pearl S. Buck award goes to women who exemplify Bucks ideals, values, and commitments.

Buck is known for her humanitarian work and for being a champion of civil rights, womens rights, childrens rights, and the rights of those with disabilities long before these issues were talked about in public, according to the school. Her book, The Good Earth, for which she was awarded the Pulitzer Prize, offered a description of life in a Chinese Peasant village and included perspectives of women who lived and experienced everyday hardships. Her tireless efforts to increase understanding between Asia and America left a lasting imprint on the world.

School spokeswoman Brenda Edson said the school is not disclosing the amount that comes with this years award. An older article on the schools website suggested that at one point it came with a $10,000 honorarium.

The prize was most recently awarded in 2004 to Maya Lin, designer of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Kingston is the sixth recipient of the award. Other winners have included Mary Robinson (2003), the former president of Ireland, Jehan Sadat (2001), the former first lady of Egypt, Sheikh Hasina (2000), the former prime minister of Bangladesh, and Corazon Aquino (1998), the former president of the Philippines.

Bateman said the school hopes to give the prize every other year now that it has been reinstated.
A caffeinated taste of Central America soon will make its way to downtown Bedford.

Business partners John Varca and Jimmy Sandoval are opening up their coffee enterprise in the United States for the first time ever.

The business, called happycoffeeits one-word name is entirely lowercaseoriginally was founded in El Salvador in 2013 and has grown into seven different locations, all located in the capital of San Salvador.

Varca is from New Jersey but finished out high school in Bedford. He decided to move to El Salvador eight years ago after visiting as a tourist and falling in love with the country. He stayed there for nine years while he ran happycoffee with local resident Sandoval.

Varca said Salvadoran coffee is among the best in the world but the locals dont appreciate its taste and instead drink what he calls horrible instant coffee.

The farmers want to export all the good stuff and they send it to the U.S. and Australia, he said. Its kind of crazy.

The first happycoffee location was designed by the two business partners. It took up half a city block with 2,000 square feet.

It worked out really well, he said. We were the first coffee shop in the country to be open 24 hours. We started that in October 2013 and by July we were selling more after midnight than before. It became a big craze.

Varca hopes to keep the Bedford location, on North Main Street in the old Ivy Bridge Cafe space, open 24 hours Fridays and Saturdays. Until then, it will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays and 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. weekends.

We do have a strict policy of never closing the doors when someone is still there, he said.

The plan is to test the shop in Bedford before moving on to open more locations in the U.S. Varca said he hopes to open another shop in Chicago.

Its also to pay homage to the Bedford community and offer something great here, he said. I know theres a good demand for it and the location is good.

happycoffee is slated to open in either late April or early Maya fast turnover for a business that just began remodeling in March.

We have been making crazy progress and have been working like 18 hours a day, Varca said.

The business partners are making all-new furniture and plan to use local food, dairy and other supplies. Theyre using locally reclaimed wood that will be recycled into lounge seating, coffee bars, booths and flooring.

All stores look similar, but each one is unique, Varca said. The theme is a combination of modern and natural with bright colors combined with recycled wood.

Varca said he still is in the hiring process and hopes to have about 12 to 15 staff members trained beginning April 1. For the first few months, there will be baristas from El Salvador brewing coffee.

The menu will offer all-day breakfast, soups, paninis, quesadillas, cold and hot sandwiches to complement coffee from Africa, South America and Central America.

A first for the business is offering ice cream, an idea that sprouted from a local who was walking by while Varca and Sandoval were working.

Weve been hearing a lot of things, and what people want is us to sell ice cream, so we have partnered with Hershey and Via Veneto and will sell six flavors of ice cream and Italian ice, he said.

As far as the name goes, Varca said he used a marketing method he learned: write on paper all the adjectives he wanted his customers to feel at his business.

When we did that, we came up with a main theme of happy or tranquil, he said. A coffee shop is also a therapy session too; everything was focused towards happiness.

Varca said one thing that sets the business apart is a customer service policy that Varca admits is strict.

We have 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee, he said. We go head over heels for customers in the way we greet and handle customers. If a customer is unhappy, we make sure to remedy that situation. If a customer is upset, instead of rushing it off, we must be notified within 15 minutes of the situation. It has to be reported. We follow up with customers over the simple complaint of, My coffee is too hot. We get really hardcore about the way we handle complaints.

As a customer, the thing that makes or breaks it for Varca is the customer service.

If you give me the best coffee in the world but the customer service is bad, thats the end of the relationship for me, he said. If we dont focus on customer service, we wont do a good job of making people happy and thats intuitive of our name.

The idea, Varca said, is that everyone who gets coffee there actually is happyits not just a brand name.
Red Hulk, Ronin, and more: 10 Heroes and Villains whose secret identities were hidden from readers

There's a longstanding superhero tradition of hiding the identity of certain characters even from readers
Taking spoken word to new heights

My mother always bought me books and I started making jottings from this early age. It started with poetry which led to spoken word. At 11 she got the courage to perform her first poem at church. The 22-year-old says her confidence has grown over time as she performed for more audiences. She recalls one of her first performances as a student of Bishops Anstey High school, It was a very exhilarating feeling to have teachers, students and parents all cheering me on in the audience. Lord Walker who strives to be the best, did a lot of research as she aspires to one day represent TT internationally. She said her early influencers were her mother who writes about daily life and her primary school principal at Eniaths Prep who was a stickler for creative writing. The late Dr Myles Monroe also helped to discover her purpose when she attended one of his conferences at the Hilton when he visited TT.

I love the work of Shakespeare especially the Merchant of Venice and I wish to modernise this in my spoken word by telling people what they want to know about life. She also admires the work of the Passion 4 Christ Movement  Ezekiel and Janette who she says can embody a good piece within three to 10 minutes.

The young entrepreneur is currently completing her Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and plans to move even further outside her comfort zone to plan more activities, competitions and publish her first book of poetry.

Her business HeartSpeakz International Ltd is a company designed to inspire, empower and educate people of TT and the world over through spoken word and motivational speaking.

The aim is to assist them to fulfil their God-given purpose. She explains how the name was chosen, I have this penchant for hearts and HeartzSpeaks international embodies one heart speaking from the heart to many hearts and I also plan to take my art internationally. Once of the challenges she has encountered however, is the need to work twice as hard to show people who you are and what you do, due to the lack of an abundance of creative entrepreneurs in TT. Lord Walker says because of this; it is even harder to penetrate the market.

The young artist is having her first concert on April 30, entitled Spoken Word and Beyond 1.

The concert designed to celebrate spoken word and National Poetry month will be held at the Malick Youth Facility. As I did my research, I found that there were a lot of spoken word competitions, but no concerts, so thats how my idea was born.

On April 30, there will be spoken word, poetry, dance, drama and song which I hope to continue every year. Lord Walker also held her first spoken word workshop in August 2015 and two participants who were selected will be performing at her concert next month. The theme Fill me up Lord was inspired by listening to a song on YouTube one night as she was led by the Holy Spirit to click on one of the suggestion bars. Although I had a totally different theme in mind, I allowed the Lord to lead me, she fondly recalls.

What is her aim you may ask? I want to help others find their lifes purpose by sharing the word of God through my poetry I want to change lives. For more info: 308-5594, 686- 5830 or email rinissel@gmail.

com.

inspirationescape@gmail.com
'He Had the Chance to Go in

and Save the Children'
(Newser)  Terry Mitchell was already a victim of child sex abuse when she was raped at knife-point in June 1980. Two months later, the 16-year-old was jogging with two black friends in Salt Lake City when they were gunned down by a white supremacist. "After the shootings, I was like a ghost of a human being," Mitchell, who became a key witness in the case, tells the Guardian. But federal prosecutor Richard Roberts "seemed like a superhero," she adds. "I had thought he was going to be the person who made everything OK." Instead, the 28-year-old called her to his office, drove her to his hotel when Mitchell asked for a ride home, insisted she come into his room, locked the door, and raped her, a $25 million lawsuit alleges. He then continued to rape Mitchell over the next few weeks as the trial progressed, telling her there would be a mistrial if anyone found out, per the suit.

When Roberts left Utah after Joseph Paul Franklin was convicted, Mitchell says she was left battling depression, PTSD, anorexia, and night terrors. "I was coping pretty well, considering, up until he came into my life," she says. "Then he derailed it." Mitchell says she repressed all memories of the rapes until Robertsuntil recently the chief US district judge in Washington, DCsent her an email in 2013. He admitted to a sexual relationship in a phone call, which Mitchell recorded and turned over to authorities. An attorney general's investigation found there wasn't enough evidence to prosecute Roberts, who abruptly retired when the lawsuit was announced and says the sex occurred after the trial and was consensual. However, a chief deputy attorney says ethics violations mean "something is going to happen [to Roberts] and it is not going to be pleasant." Mitchell hopes to see Roberts impeached. (Click for more on the case.)
(Newser)  After sweeping the Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington state caucuses on Saturday, Bernie Sanders is looking ahead to what could be a decisive battle in New York state. The delegate-rich state holds its Democratic primary on April 19, and the Brooklyn-born Sanders plans a major push to defeat Hillary Clinton in the state she once represented, the Washington Post reports. "We'll be the underdog, but being the underdog in New York is not the worst situation in politics," says Tad Devine, Sanders' chief strategist. "We're going to make a real run for it." Sanders plans an upbeat campaign stressing his "New York values," Devine says, though he'll also target Clinton for her ties to Wall Street.

The next state to vote is Wisconsin on April 5, and Devine says Sanders hopes victory there will give him a boost heading into New York. CBS News reports that Sanders has challenged Clinton to debate him in New York in April"New York City, upstate, wherever." Whichever Democrat wins the nomination will be facing a New Yorker in the general election if Donald Trump wins the GOP race, though the state hasn't voted Republican in a presidential election since 1984, and polls suggest there's little chance of it flipping this year, the Hill reports. A political science professor at Syracuse University says he would be tempted to bet his house that Clinton would beat Trump in a general election, especially since the nomination race has pushed her to the left, which "makes her even more appealing in a state like New York." (Read more Election 2016 stories.)
(Newser)  A breakaway faction of the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for a sickening attack that killed scores of people in a park on Easter Sunday. A spokesman for Jamaat-ul-Ahrar tells the AP that the group was deliberately targeting Christians when it sent a suicide bomber to the Gulshan-e-Iqbal park in Lahore. The bomber blew himself up just feet away from children's rides in the busy park. Officials say the death toll has now hit 70, with at least 340 others injured, reports Reuters, which notes that the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar faction once declared allegiance to ISIS before deciding to ally itself with the Taliban again.

Pakistan has declared three days of national mourning after the country's deadliest terror attack since 132 schoolchildren were massacred in Peshawar in late 2014. "I saw body parts everywhere, especially those of young children," a witness to the park attack tells the Guardian. "It was quite haunting, as many of the children's rides were still operating, while there were dead bodies lying all around them." A military spokesman tweeted that those responsible will be brought to justice and "we will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty." (Read more Pakistan stories.)
(Newser)  Danielle Vale, 48, was en route to her mother's funeral in Utah Saturday when she was killed in a car crash, KUTV reports. The Nevada woman was in a pickup truck being driven by a 48-year-old man who lost control of the vehicle on the icy road; it rolled several times, and Vale and a 28-year-old female passenger were ejected. Neither was wearing a seatbelt, authorities say. Vale was pronounced dead at the scene, and the 28-year-old was in serious condition.

"It is believed that her mother's ashes were in the truck at the time of the crash," according to a Utah Highway Patrol news release picked up by the Salt Lake Tribune. "Troopers are searching for the ashes and when they are located, UHP Troopers will transport the ashes to Salt Lake to the waiting family." (Read more car crash stories.)
(Newser)  Sharing a seat with Hillary Clinton and George and Amal Clooney at an April 15 Bay Area fundraiser will cost you. At $353,400, Politico notes two head-table seats are going for 400% the average annual income for San Francisco. Bernie Sanders has a word for it: "Obscene." In an interview with CNN's State of the Union on Sunday, the candidate made clear that he's a fan of Clooney as an actor, and that the issue isn't really Clooney at allit's "big money." He continues, "It's not a criticism of Clooney. It's a criticism of a corrupt campaign finance system, where big money interestsand it's not Clooney, its the people who are coming to this eventhave undue influence over the political process. And [my supporters and I] are trying to move as far away from that as we can." Indeed, Yahoo quotes Sanders as saying tickets to his events typically go for $15 or $50.

Last week, Sanders' campaign manager also used the word "obscene" in a letter to supporters about the dinner, reports the Hill. "In the movie Ocean's 11, a gang of lovable thieves successfully heist $150 million from a vault in the basement of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino," wrote Jeff Weaver. "Fueled primarily from high-dollar donations, Hillary Clinton has raised more than that in this campaign," it adds, "and is now enlisting the support of George Clooney (Danny Ocean) to pad that total." The lower end of the Clinton spectrumat least as far as Clooney is involvedis not so low. An April 16 dinner at Clooney's LA mansion costs $33,400 per person. California votes on June 7, and doles out 475 delegates. Before Clinton and Sanders get there, though, they'll battle it out in New York, among other states. (Read more Election 2016 stories.)
(Newser)  Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman needed someone to scrub all of his dirty drug money, and Mexican police say they arrested that man, known as "King Midas," while he was vacationing, the BBC reports. "Groups of elite federal police and the Mexican army arrested Juan Manuel Alvarez Inzunza, nicknamed 'El Rey Midas' ('King Midas'), in Oaxaca," a police statement read, per the AFP. The announcement was made Sunday but the date of the arrest was not given.

Inzunza, 34, is suspected of laundering between $300 million to $400 million per year, for an estimated total of more than $4 billion over 10 years' time, through various currency exchange centers and other companies for Guzman's Sinaloa drug cartel. Inzunza's "transactions" were said to take place mostly in the Mexican states of Sinaloa and Jalisco, but also in Tijuana, the US, Panama, and Colombia, Courthouse News Service reports. He's likely to be extradited to the US, as is Guzman. (Read more Mexico stories.)
(Newser)  A search is underway for a convicted murderer who escaped from a prison in Nelsonville, Ohio. Prison officials say John Modie, 58sentenced to 15 years to life for the murder of a woman in Cleveland in 2003was discovered missing from the Hocking Unit of the Southeastern Correctional Institution at 11pm on Sunday during an inmate count, per the Columbus Dispatch and Cleveland.com. Officials confirmed he escaped after a search of the prison, about 60 miles southeast of Columbus, per an NBC4 reporter, though he could still be on prison grounds.

Police say Modie, also convicted of robbery and escape, is considered dangerous and may have sought shelter after an overnight storm. They add he has links to Washington County, though he was convicted in Cuyahoga County, reports NBC4. He's described as a 6-foot-4 white male weighing 230 pound, with gray hair, a gray mustache, and brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a blue hoodie, gray sweatshirt, and blue pants. Hocking College, located near the prison, canceled morning classes on Monday, per WBNS, noting "a dangerous inmate has escaped from [a] local prison." (Read more prison break stories.)
(Newser)  Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal says he'll veto the "religious liberty" bill passed by his state's Legislature nearly two weeks ago, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reports. Deal said in a press conference Monday at the state Capitol that House Bill 757which would have allowed religious leaders to refuse to perform same-sex marriages, as well as permitted faith-based groups to not rent to people for "objectionable" events or to fire people whose religious beliefs conflicted with their owngoes against Georgia's reputation. The bill had led to threats of economic repercussions from the likes of Coca-Cola, Google, and Microsoft.

"[My decision was] about the character of our state and the character of our people," he said, per CNN. "Georgia is a welcoming state. It is full of loving, kind, and generous people." He also noted the irony of people who push for the freedoms granted by the First Amendment but also call for the government to get involved in legislating those freedoms. "Perhaps we should heed the hands-off admonition of the First Amendment," he said. As an apparent preemptive strike against critics who may be tempted to strong-arm him about his decision, he added, "I don't respond well to insults or threats." (North Carolina is embroiled in a battle regarding transgender people using bathrooms.)
(Newser)  Belgian authorities thought they had caught the "man in the hat" seen in surveillance photos at the Brussels airport, with authorities openly denouncing the suspect as a terrorist over the weekend. Now it appears they had the wrong man. Authorities released the suspect on Monday and began a new push to identify the man dressed in white in the surveillance images, reports NBC News. The New York Times is using phrases such as "enormous blunder" and "stunning setback" to describe the development. Police had charged Faycal Cheffou with terrorism after a cabdriver identified him from a photo as the third man he drove to the airport the morning of the attacks, along with two suicide bombers.

"The evidence that had led to the arrest of the man named Faycal C. was not confirmed by the evolution of the ongoing investigation," says a spokesman for the Belgian federal prosecutor. "Consequently, he has been freed by the investigative judge." One Belgian official over the weekend described him as an "extremist jihadi horror," even though DNA tests had yet to come back. In refocusing their efforts to identify the actual third suspect, authorities on Monday released video of him walking in the airport prior to the blasts, reports the BBC. (Read more Brussels attack stories.)
(Newser)  A 65-year-old British woman in Portugal's Madeira Islands tried to swim out to her passing cruise ship in the mistaken belief that her husband was on board, an official said Monday. She was rescued after four hours in the sea, reports the AP. Susan Brown told police that she and her husband had decided Saturday to fly home early from their cruise aboard the Marco Polo, which had stopped over that day in Madeira. However, Brown told police she later lost sight of her husband at Funchal airport after they argued and was "feeling desperate."

She said she had tried to swim out to the ship from an area by the seaside airport when she saw it sailing out of Funchal in the evening, thinking that her husband might have been on board. Police have since ascertained that her husband boarded a flight to Bristol, England. Brown only had her handbag with her when a local fishing boat came across her in the Atlantic after midnight. The sea temperature in the archipelago off northwest Africa was 64 degrees Fahrenheit. She was taken to hospital with advanced hypothermia and was later moved to a psychiatric ward. (Read more cruise ships stories.)
(Newser)  A seven-year-old girl died on Saturday, all because she was playing in a bouncy castle. A gust of wind sent the inflatable rolling for about 500 feet in a park near London, England, with young Summer Grant trapped inside, the Telegraph reports. Taken to hospital, she died of multiple injuries. "Words just can't explain how I am feeling right now, life is just truly cruel," her 26-year-old mother Cara Blackie tells Essex Police. "Summer was a bright, beautiful and most loving little girl, it is so unfair that you have been taken, it just doesn't make sense." Police have arrested a man, 27, and woman, 24, who work at the fairground on suspicion of manslaughter by gross negligence; both have been released on bail.

Forecasters had predicted high winds of up to 50mph, and a British code for inflatables requires they be turned off when winds exceed 24mph. "We did not allow them on this bouncy castle as it just didn't look safe," says a parent who attended the fair at Harlow Town Park on Saturday with her two kids. "The winds were just far too strong." Now a conservative legislator is asking whether bouncy castles should be banned from Harlow pending an inquiry, the BBC reports. It must be cold comfort for Summer's dad, Lee Grant: "I still cant come to terms she's not here," he says in a police statement, per the Guardian. "We all love you so so much, you will always be with us; love you to the moon and back, all our love Daddy, Mummy and family xxxx." (A crowd-funding page has been set up for the family.)
"WhatsApp turned seven this week. With an amazing journey so far, and in the coming months, a greater emphasis has been worked upon on security measures and more ways to stay in touch with people" were the words that began in their official blog.

Now, Facebook are planning to stop support for WhatsApp, Facebook and messenger applications for blackberry devices. While continuing to mention that Blackberry devices have been important to them, they also mentioned about the incapability of needs for expanding app features in the future. The news also comes about axing support for Symbian systems S40 and S60 and obsolete versions of android.

Considering about a vision ahead for another seven years, WhatsApp wants to focus on mobile platforms used by a vast number of people. They did mention in their blog that it was a tough decision for them to undertake but claimed it was right in order to serve people in a better way to stay in touch with friends and loved ones. Followed by WhatsApp, Facebook also have decided to follow the footsteps announcing that support for both applications will be halted for Blackberry OS later this year.

Prominent blackberry device Priv running Android v5.1 will however continue enjoying the apps from Google's play store unaffected. Blackberry came out with a statement that they were rather disappointed about such a decision since a majority of users loved those apps. Despite continuing to negotiate with Facebook and WhatsApp, the decision was already made and couldn't be persuaded to change their stance.

According to data on Facebook, their applications are now run on 99.5% of devices from Apple, Google and Microsoft. Blackberry users can however continue using Facebook on the web version to post their content without a dedicated client. Bizarrely, Blackberry however supports Android apps through Amazon's underground app store.

For customers relying on social media this move indicates a switch from other platforms to Blackberry is now put down. WhatsApp messenger currently will be out of support by the end of 2016 if you own any of these devices: Blackberries, Nokia S40 and S60, Android 2.1 and 2.2, Windows mobile 7.1.
As the weather becomes warm, people and animals alike, shed their winter hideouts and come out into the open. However, officials warn residents about rabid animals in Central Maine, including the one that bit a 73-year-old woman in Augusta. While the raccoon that bit the woman was found and neutralized, it tested positive for rabies.

"What is concerning, obviously, is the raccoon bit a human being, but it is also concerning that it was in such close proximity to businesses and schools and gatherings of people and animals, over a fairly large footprint," said Hillary Roberts, executive director of Kennebec Valley Humane Society. "It's a good reminder to make sure your pets are vaccinated and for people to not interact with wildlife."

Even though it was the first animal to be tested positive for rabies in Kennebec County in 2016, there are many other wild animals spotted in central Maine area, showing signs of the disease, said local animal control officers.

John Martins, public health information officer for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, said "Winter is over and more wild animals and people are much more likely to be out," he said, explaining why the number of rabies cases is higher at that time of year.

"With the warmer weather, you get more people out walking their dogs and spending more time outside as temperatures warm up," Roberts said.

Francois Roodman, Augusta's animal control officer, said ever since the rabies infested raccoon was spotted and killed, the police have found other two animals showing similar signs.

The people that are bitten by rabid animals are treated with a combination of a vaccine and immunoglobulin shots. The intensity of the shots depends on whether or not the person has been vaccinated for rabies in the past, and of course their overall health, said Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention's fact sheet for rabies.
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Kolkata:

To increase voter turnout and encourage ethical voting, the Election Commission is running a high-pitch campaign across West Bengal with special focus on women and young voters.



Messages urging electors to exercise their franchise in a free and fair manner are being put up not only in wall posters, hoardings, media advertisements, but also sent through videos on YouTube. Folk artistes and even announcements at traffic signals are urging voters to cast their vote.



We are using all mediums available under the sun to pass on this message to the voters that you need to vote and vote without any barriers or inducements. We are promoting ethical voting in a big way. Special attention is being given to women, young and disabled voters, an EC official told PTI.



The campaign under the Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) Programme, meant to educate voters and ensure that the experience of voting is smooth and hassle-free, has a budget above of Rs 21 crore.



Officials said they have plans to tie up with mobile network providers to send regular SMSes to voters including a reminder to caste their vote on the day of poll.



Although West Bengal has traditionally seen one of the highest voter turnouts in India, yet in terms of percentage there has been a slight fall from the 2011 Assembly elections (84.4 per cent) in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls (82.22 per cent).



In 2006 Assembly polls, the voter turnout was 81.7 per cent.



For outdoor campaigns the EC is partnering with various government departments to ensure the poll watchdog gets free advertising space for hoardings and electronic display boards at various places.



State icon, Ananya, an 18-year-old girl, is being featured in all outdoor campaign materials as the face of Election Commission in the state.

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Nainital:

Top Congress leader and lawyers Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal on Monday moved High Court in Nainital against the imposition of President's rule before end of deadline. Also headed to court are nine rebel lawmakers of the Congress who scripted the Uttarakhand crisis. They will challenge their disqualification yesterday from the Uttarakhand assembly by the Speaker.



Senior party leader Kapil Sibal said Presidents Rule was imposed a day before the floor test in the Uttarakhand Assembly as the Centre knew that Chief Minister Harish Rawat would be able to prove his majority. I am shocked that any government which believes in democracy and believes in the Constitution would seek to wipe off the legacy of a party, Sibal said, alleging that BJP is a past master in the art of horse-trading. (Also read. President's Rule imposed in Uttarakhand; Rawat calls its murder of democracy)



Attacking Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley without taking his name, Sibal said people will not spare those in the Cabinet who are well versed with the law and still took the decision. Jaitley is believed to have briefed the President late last night about the rationale behind the Cabinets recommendation for the imposition of Presidents Rule.



(With PTI Inputs)

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New Delhi:

Militants fired four rockets at the Afghan Parliament today with one impacting the new building that was built with Indias assistance, media reports said. The incident took place when senior security officials were on their way to the building to brief lawmakers on the current situation in the country, Khaama Press reported.

Four rockets were fired on the Parliament building. One of the rockets impacted the building, two others landed in surrounding areas while one of them landed in an army base nearby, eyewitnesses were quoted as saying. A lawmaker said the MPs and other people in the building were safe.

Todays attack came just over three months after the new Parliament building, built with Indias assistance, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The swanky new building was built by India at a cost of USD 90 million. The Parliament building project was started by India in 2007 as a mark of friendship and cooperation to help rebuild Afghanistan. Todays incident also comes days after a heavy blast rocked Kabul after a bike packed with explosives was detonated. (Also read. Over 60 killed, 200 injured in suicide blast in crowded park in Lahore)

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New Delhi:

Social media giant Twitter is reportedly testing Sticker feature, which will enable the users Facebook like smileys. It is also being said that the app will allow users to add stickers with their pictures. Also, it will let users enhance their textual content.

Many social media companies allow their users to use stickers for expressing their ideas in a better way. The popular service Instagram and Facebook already allow the function, while Snapchat lets users add emojis to photos and videos.

While "Stickers" might work, the social media giant is witter is currently working with a few other functions like--"Stamptags,"Taptags" and "Stickits."
New Delhi :

Japan has slaughtered 300 whales in its latest whaling mission in the Southern Ocean. According to the countrys Institute for Cetacean Research, 333 minke whales have been killed including more than 200 pregnant females as part of this years Antarctic whale hunt.

The Japanese research fleet following the 100-day expedition as part of a project that aimed at conducting scientific whaling activities killed these many whales.

However, commercial whale hunting has been banned by the United Nations since 1986, but that excludes killing of whales for scientific research. The Japanese researchers claim that they killed the pregnant whales to determine the age of their maturity.

Though earlier also, the legitimacy of Japans programme has been challenged previously by the International Court of Justice in 2014. Following which Japan had stopped the whaling activities for a brief period, but started again in 2015.

The actual reason for killing numerous minke whales has been unclear and the UN has noted that Japanese boats have been overdoing research, while tagging the killings as scientific process.

It is noteworthy here that whales killed in the current expedition were females since its the breeding time in the southern seas.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi :

Soon after NASA astronaut Scott Kelly came back on earth after spending a year in space, the scientists will now be conducting tests to study what spending a year in space does to a person. While Scott Kelly spent a year in space his identical twin, Mark stayed on earth. Now the scientists will study what changes took place in his body while in space. Though some of the changes were quite apparent such as Scott Kelly is now two inches taller than his brother. The weightlessness of space is thought to have pulled out Commander Kellys spine  which means that his extra height will gradually disappear.

His one year in space for a step towards sending humans to Mars one day. Higher chances of weaker bones and muscles are also there that can become dangerous for people once they make their way back onto Earth. Kelly also served as part of a twin study, parallel twin study which means that the twins one on earth the other in space, their bodily changes will be studied over the period of time.

Gravity also has its effects on human body. Being outside of the Earths atmosphere increases the exposure to radiation  the effects of which on humans still isnt fully understood.

Kelly, who is retiring from Nasa in April, said he hoped the move would allow him to be a better advocate for human space exploration. Kelly would continue to work with Nasa, including on the twin study for which he and his brother are subjects.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
Lucknow :

AIMIM party chief Asaduddin Owaisi today attacked BJP and Samajwadi Party, terming them as two sides of the same coin and alleged while RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has been given liberty to hold meetings in Lucknow, a ban was imposed on him.

The Hyderabad MP said his party considered SP and BJP as its main rival in 2017 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.

Our fight is against both SP and BJP. These parties are two sides of the same coin, he said.

On administration in the state capital imposing a ban on his rally, Owaisi said RSS chief Bhagwat has got the freedom, but ban is being imposed on us because in reality, the SP government is afraid of us.

Owaisi was scheduled to visit Lucknow along with Faizabad, Azamgarh and Ambedkarnagar earlier this month.

He was also scheduled to address a rally in Lucknow but was refused permission by the administration citing law and order issues.

After that, Owaisis entire Uttar Pradesh tour was cancelled.

The AIMIM chief alleged that SP and BJP were solely responsible for Muzaffarnagar riots but those responsible were given a clean chit in the inquiry report.

Owaisi, who faced criticism for his remarks on chanting of Bharat Mata ki Jai, said he does not need a certificate of patriotism from anyone.

He said Muslims have made big sacrifices for the country and their patriotism could not be questioned just for the sake of a slogan.

The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president alleged that SP dispensation in Uttar Pradesh has failed on all fronts and accused it of deliberately keeping Muslims backward.

Muslims are pushed back in the field of education. It promised 18 per cent reservation to Muslims, which has not been fulfilled. The government has made no provision for the welfare of Muslims in its budget. Does Akhilesh want to keep Muslims behind in the field of education? he said.

Earlier, the AIMIM chief offered prayers at dargaah of Haji Waris Ali Shah here and visited Islamic seminary at Nadwa and met clerics. He also met prominent Shia cleric Kalbe Jawwad.

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New Delhi :

Its unbelievable to know diseases like Cancer can be cured through Yoga. Many countries have spent huge money to find the cure for the disease. But now India has got the cure and that too Yoga.

Union Minister Shripad Naik said a research has proved that yoga can cure diseases like cancer and propagated the use of AYUSH as alternative medical practices.

A Bengaluru-based institute has proved with research that diseases like cancer can be cured by yoga. They have proved it, Naik said during the inauguration of National Arogya fair in Goa today.

The minister, however, did not mention the name of the institute and appealed the people to practice Ayurveda, Yoga and naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) as alternative medicines.

Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar also made a similar claim during his speech while launching Common Yoga Protocol, a guide to the upcoming World Yoga Day on June 21.

It is said that diseases like AIDS and cancer can be cured by Ayurveda. We should conduct necessary research on this aspect so that India can revolutionise the health sector of the world, Parsekar said.

Earlier in his speech, the Union minister said the proponents of AYUSH are not against allopathy.

All the forms of medicines should have health of patient at its focus point, Naik said.

He said there should be integration of medicines so that ailments like cancer, high sugar, obesity and others are uprooted.

The minister also announced the proposed tie up with the US in the field of AYUSH to treat cancer.

During the last one and half year, (the knowledge of) AYUSH has travelled places including the US. We will soon be signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with America in the field of research on curing cancer by AYUSH medicinal practice, Naik said.

He said the World Health Organisation (WHO) also wants to join hands with India to spread awareness about AYUSH.

Naik said alike All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, the ministry is working towards setting up AYUSH AIIMS in each state of the country.
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The U.S. Department of Justice on Monday announced it was dropping an effort to have Apple defeat privacy safeguards the company had built into its software after federal agents managed to read the data encrypted on a phone used by San Bernardino shooter Syed Rizwan Farook.

Efforts to bypass that devices pass code without Apples intervention proved successful, said the Department of Justice. The iPhones operating system is designed to prevent such attempts, but security researchers have identified some weaknesses in that software.

The Department of Justice announced last week that it had obtained technical help from an unnamed party, prompting it to ask a federal court in Riverside to postpone a hearing originally scheduled for last Tuesday on an order the government was seeking to compel Apples assistance.

It wasnt immediately clear what methods the outside party used to read the data.

Privacy vs. security

The breakthrough marks the end of one battle between a technology company and the government. But the war over privacy and security that this case came to symbolize rages on. Apple faces 12 similar orders to assist law enforcement in unlocking iPhones.

And other technology companies, many of which filed briefs supporting Apples position, are similarly building stronger protections into their software that may stymie government attempts to read their users data.

In recent remarks at an industry event in Austin, President Obama called on the technology industry to find a middle ground on encryption. Yet compromise has been hard to find. Privacy and security advocates say the revelations of former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden alarmed many about the ability of government agents to spy on citizens. Mistrust has run high on both sides.

By finding a way to break into the San Bernardino iPhone without Apples intervention, the Department of Justice has avoided, for now, the possibility that a court might rule against it. But the government said it might seek court orders if technical means fail in the future.

As the government noted in its filing today, the FBI has now successfully retrieved the data stored on the San Bernardino terrorists iPhone and therefore no longer requires the assistance from Apple required by this Court Order, said Department of Justice spokeswoman Melanie Newman. It remains a priority for the government to ensure that law enforcement can obtain crucial digital information to protect national security and public safety, either with cooperation from relevant parties, or through the court system when cooperation fails. We will continue to pursue all available options for this mission, including seeking the cooperation of manufacturers and relying upon the creativity of both the public and private sectors.

A federal order

In February, a federal magistrate in Riverside ordered Apple to write software altering the iPhones security protections, which would help federal agents more easily bypass that phones encryption.

Apple had contended that such a measure would give the government a dangerous power to weaken security protections in devices used by hundreds of millions of people.

The Cupertino company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Denelle Dixon-Thayer, chief business and legal officer for Mozilla, the nonprofit Web browser maker, said in a statement that the FBI should have explored all technical options before turning to the courts.

The governments decision to drop the case doesnt change the need to have the broader discussion of what limits should be placed on law enforcements ability to compel assistance from tech companies, she said. If anything, todays development makes this question even more important, because this is a step that the FBI should have taken before deciding to start a legal fight with Apple.

Mozilla, along with dozens of other technology companies and organizations, had filed briefs with the Riverside court supporting Apples position.

Newman said that the FBI is reviewing the information on the phone, consistent with standard investigatory procedures.

Battle is far from over

The governments withdrawal in this case does not mean that the battle over encryption is over, said security researcher Dan Kaminsky, who has publicly supported Apples stance in the San Bernardino case.

Its not merely that the war is continuing, he said. Damage has been done. The largest technology company in the world just had to spend an enormous amount of its resources and attention not making better products, not making more secure products, but fighting off a demand for insecurity.
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BETHEL  For several months leading up to the triple shooting that shocked a quiet Bethel neighborhood last week, two of the victims were embroiled in an eviction dispute, court records show.

Homeowner Charles Cristofalo filed a lawsuit in July to evict his tenant and housemate, Thai Pham. Two months later, the pair agreed that Pham would leave the Governors Lane home permanently on March 25  last Friday.

What happened that afternoon remains a mystery. Police have offered no explanation of what took place.

Cristofalo, 76, was found dead after a hang-up call to 911 brought police to his home about 3 p.m. Also found with gunshot wounds at the house were Pham, 56, and a woman identified as Ahn Cristofalo, 68.

The surviving victims were taken to Danbury Hospital, where they remained Monday. Pham was in critical condition over the weekend and Ahn Cristofalo was expected to survive, but the hospital would not release any further information on their conditions.

Police on Monday also refused to release new details of the case or to confirm reports that the two men are brothers-in-law. Lt. Michael Libertini said the department would provide no further information until two weeks after searching the home.

Police Chief Jeffrey Finch said Friday that weapons were recovered from the house, including a gun, but it is still not clear who fired the shots.

Charles Cristofalos lawsuit states that Pham moved in with him in October 1994. But after failing to pay his $450 rent for six months, Pham was given two months to leave the house, according to the lawsuit.

When that date came, July 7, Pham neglected and refused to leave the house, Cristofalo claimed in the lawsuit. In his defense, Pham said his rent was paid on time, though the homeowner refused to provide receipts, court records show.

The tenant eventually agreed to leave, but he requested more time to find housing. Cristofalo agreed to six months with some conditions, including the removal of all exercise equipment from the house and a request that Pham keep his clothing and sewing machine in his room, according to the lawsuit.

Cristofalos attorney, Kevin Chamberlin, said he could not comment on the case.

Court records suggest that Pham was Vietnamese, because they include a request for a Vietnamese interpreter for a hearing in the case last fall.

According to the state Judicial Branch website, Pham was found guilty of sixth-degree larceny in 2007.

Finch said the shooting was being investigated as a domestic dispute, but he cautioned that its still early in the investigation. The Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad is assisting Bethel with the probe.

noliveira@newstimes.com, 203-731-3411, @olivnelson
VANCOUVER, March 24, 2016 /CNW/ - Canfor Pulp Products Inc. (TSX:CFX) will hold its Annual General Meeting at 11:00 AM PDT Wednesday, April 27, 2016 in Prince George, BC at the Prince George Playhouse, 2833 Recreation Place.

Canfor Pulp Products Inc. will hold a joint conference call with Canfor Corporation (TSX:CFP) on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 8:00 AM PDT to discuss their respective first quarter 2016 financial and operating results. To participate in the call, please dial one of the following numbers:

Toll-Free Access: 888-390-0546

Access: 416-764-8688

Let the operator know you wish to participate in the Canfor conference call.

Following management's discussion of the quarterly results, the analyst and investment community will be invited to ask questions.

For Instant Replay Access please dial one of the following numbers and enter

Toll-Free Access: 888-390-0541

Participant Pass Code: 507712#

Recording available until: May 12, 2016

The conference call will be available live at www.canfor.com.

Canfor Pulp Products Inc. is a leading global supplier of pulp and paper products with operations in the central interior of British Columbia employing approximately 1,300 people throughout the organization. Canfor Pulp owns and operates three mills in Prince George, BC with a total capacity of 1.1 million tonnes of Premium Reinforcing Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft Pulp and 140,000 tonnes of kraft paper, as well as one mill in Taylor, BC with an annual production capacity of 220,000 tonnes of Bleached Chemi-Thermo Mechanical Pulp ("BCTMP"). Canfor Pulp is the largest North American and one of the largest global producers of market NBSK Pulp. CPPI shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol CFX.

SOURCE Canfor Pulp Products Inc.

Image with caption: "Canfor Pulp Products Inc. (CNW Group/Canfor Pulp Products Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160324_C3414_PHOTO_EN_650420.jpg

For further information: Media Contact: Corinne Stavness, Senior Director, External Affairs and Communications, (604) 661-5225, [email protected]; Investor Contact: Pat Elliott, Vice President and Treasurer, (604) 661-5441, [email protected]
SOCAN and CARAS call on all businesses that use music to support

Canada's music creators through fair licensing

TORONTO, March 10, 2016 /CNW/ - The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) has stepped ahead to stand behind fair and legal music licensing to make the 2016 JUNO Awards and JUNO Week become the first major awards event to be Licensed To Play with SOCAN.

The largest organization in the Canadian music ecosystem has presented the 2016 JUNO Awards and JUNO Week with a special Licensed To Play designation for working to ensure that all of its performance venues are legally licensed with SOCAN to perform live and recorded music.

After confirming that more than 15 JUNO live music venues are licensed with SOCAN, JUNO Week was presented with a special Licensed To Play designation, a version of the emblem that more than 40,000 Canadian music-using businesses have so far received to show off their support of fair compensation for music creators.

"We are a proud supporter of the Licensed To Play initiative with SOCAN," said Allan Reid, President & CEO, CARAS/The JUNO Awards & MusiCounts. "CARAS believes that it is essential that we play a part in ensuring that all of Canada's music creators are fairly compensated through licensing."

"Being Licensed To Play with SOCAN is a badge of honour and pride, and the 2016 JUNOS honour songwriters, composers and music publishers by stepping ahead to make a bold statement that they stand behind music creators' right and need to be compensated fairly for their work," said SOCAN CEO Eric Baptiste.

The 45th annual JUNO Awards is the largest music event in North America that honours Canadian artists. JUNO Week 2016 will showcase nearly 120 music acts at more than 15 live music venues across Calgary from March 28 to April 3. JUNO Week culminates with the live broadcast of the JUNO Awards on CTV on April 3rd.

While organizations that use music to make their business better should abide by the law, constantly monitoring every one of Canada's music-using businesses is not feasible. SOCAN works with businesses and their trade associations to encourage them to stay up-to-date with their fair music licenses. Collectively, these licenses are a major part of a songwriter, composer or music publisher's livelihood through royalties, and a vital aspect of Canada's music ecosystem.

In May of last year, Canadian Music Week became the first major music festival and conference in North America to ensure that all of its live music venues are licensed so that music creators and publishers can be fairly compensated. Since then, others have followed CMW's lead.

About SOCAN

SOCAN is a member-based organization that represents the Canadian performing rights of more than four-million Canadian and international music creators and publishers. SOCAN is proud to play a leading role in supporting the long-term success of its more than 130,000 Canadian members, and the Canadian music ecosystem overall. SOCAN licenses more than 125,000 businesses in Canada, and distributes royalties to its members and music rights organizations around the world. SOCAN also distributes royalties to its members for the use of their music internationally in collaboration with its peer societies. www.socan.ca

About CARAS

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences/L'academie canadienne des arts et des sciences de l'enregistrement (CARAS) is a not-for-profit organization created to preserve and enhance the Canadian music industry and to contribute toward higher artistic and industry standards. The main focus of CARAS is the exploration and development of ongoing opportunities to showcase and promote Canadian artists and music through vehicles such as The JUNO Awards and other year-round initiatives. For more information on the 45th Annual JUNO Awards or the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) please visit www.junoawards.ca

SOURCE SOCAN

Image with caption: "SOCAN has designated 2016 JUNO Week as the first major awards event to be LICENSED TO PLAY, in support of legal, ethical and fair music rights. (CNW Group/SOCAN)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160310_C4446_PHOTO_EN_640279.jpg

For further information: SOCAN: Amal Yassir, 416-442-3838 ext. 3747, [email protected]; Environics Communications (for SOCAN): Lorna Freeman, 416-969-2711, [email protected]
[March 28, 2016] Digital Signal Corporation (DSC) showcased facial intelligence solutions at ISNR 2016 in Abu Dhabi, UAE

CHANTILLY, Va., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Signal Corporation (DSC), a world leader in facial recognition and identity management solutions, and its partner International Golden Group (IGG), announced today that they demonstrated the latest range of security solutions at the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience 2016 (ISNR) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on March 15-17, 2016, Stand #A100. Exhibits covered DSC's market leading range of 2D/3D Facial Intelligence solutions. The DSC software suite, combined with its proprietary true 3D imaging technology, enables governments and commercial businesses to perform facial recognition with the highest accuracy available. "We welcomed the opportunity to exhibit at ISNR 2016 along with our partner, IGG," said David Guttadauro, CEO and President of Digital Signal Corporation. "DSC has been developing facial recognition solutions for over 15 years to address our changing society, which needs the security innovation, integration and knowledge that DSC brings. Our biometrics solutions have been used by worldwide customers in applications such as border control and customs, national ID, critical infrastructure, access monitoring, and retail," added Guttadauro. During the show, DSC demonstrated its CES system, the only available facial recognition solution that utilizes 3D and enhanced 2D matching to overcome the limitations of video-based systems and enable reliable identification in a surveillance setting. The CES is designed for real-wrld conditions and it operates indoor, outdoor, or as a self-contained mobile unit to automatically identify and alert on persons of interest.



DSC also exhibited ENR  a rapid biometric enrollment system that is suited for high-volume, real-world enrollment scenarios and queues, and SEEKER  a biometric analysis solution which combines image enhancement, real-time fraud detection, and identity management into a single platform. This highly scalable platform is deployable on premise or in the cloud, and it handles real-time processing and databases of 20+ million records. ISNR Abu Dhabi is the world's largest event for homeland security and national resilience in 2016. This was the 7th edition of ISNR and it hosted 5 dedicated exhibitions, 2 conferences, 100+ seminar presentations and 10+ live features. There were over 500 exhibiting companies from 40 countries, 18,000 local and regional visitors and over 200 government buyers and delegation members. The event brought together experts in security and disaster prevention, management and recovery. Exploring the latest innovations, technologies and solutions in crisis management, border and transport security, intelligence and threat assessment, cyber security, emergency response, critical infrastructure and counterterrorism, ISNR Abu Dhabi continues to be the must-attend security event on the yearly calendar.

ABOUT DIGITAL SIGNAL CORPORATION

Digital Signal Corporation (DSC), was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia. DSC is the world leader in human identification technology through our revolutionary and proprietary facial intelligence solutions. The DSC software suite, combined with our proprietary true 3D imaging technology, enables governments and organizations to perform facial recognition with the highest accuracy available. With over 100 patents issued or pending, DSC continues to advance research and product development of human identification technology. For more information, please visit www.digitalsignalcorp.com ABOUT INTERNATIONAL GOLDEN GROUP (IGG)

International Golden Group PJSC is a well-established company in Abu Dhabi-UAE and it has an excellent reputation in the UAE market. IGG has entered into long-term strategic business alliances with other local and international companies relying on a professional team of highly dedicated and experienced personnel along with a worldwide network of agents and affiliates committed in providing high- level services to its customers. Through the implementation of the latest technology, IGG is now capable to supply different kinds of military, security and civilian products and solutions for various purposes. International Golden Group PJSC has positioned itself to become soon a first-class manufacturer of special products for the local and regional defense markets. For more information, please visit www.iggroup.ae CONTACT NAME: Anca Bilegan

PHONE: (703) 642-8901

EMAIL: [email protected] Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160215/333213LOGO To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/digital-signal-corporation-dsc-showcased-facial-intelligence-solutions-at-isnr-2016-in-abu-dhabi-uae-300242154.html SOURCE Digital Signal Corporation

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The judge handling the trial of the spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh has said he had neither social nor work...

The judge handling the trial of the spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh has said he had neither social nor work relationship with the politician.Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Abuja said he did not know Metuh during his (the judge) practice as a lawyer and while in school.The judges position is contained in his response to a petition written against him by Metuh to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice Ibrahim Auta. Justice Abangs response is dated March 23.Metuh had, in the petition written against by one of lawyers, Emeka Etiaba (SAN), claimed among others, that the judge was his classmate at the Law School in 1988 and that he last met the judge late last year at the Meridien Hotel, Akwa Ibom.Metuh, who said he was worried he could not get justice before the judge, accused him (Justice Abang) of bias and of deliberately refusing to release records of proceedings to enable him appeal the judges earlier decisions.The PDP spokesman, whose move is seen as attempt to scuttle his trial, is praying Justice Auta to transfer the case to another judge to commence afresh.Metuh and his company, Destra Investment Limited were arraigned before Justice Abang in January on a seven-count charge, in which they were accused of retaining proceeds of unlawful act and engaging in money laundering.The prosecution closed its in February after calling eight witness. But, rather than open their defence, Metuh and his firm made a no-case submission.In a ruling on March 9 Justice Abnag rejected the no-case submission, on the ground that the prosecution has established a case against Metuh and his company, requiring them being called upon to enter defence.Rather the open his defence,Metuh, on March 11 petitioned the courts Chief Judge, raising sundry accusations against Justice Abang and requested the transfer of the case against him to another judge.Lead prosecution lawyer, Sylvanus Tahir said he was not served a copy of Metuhs petition as required.Justice Abang, in his response to Metuhs petition,said although he neither knew nor had any relationship with Metuh, it was impossible for the relationship Metuh claimed existed between them to affect the facts and laws in relation to his (Metuhs) trial.With respect to the first issue that the petitioner Emeka Etiaba (SAN) stated that the 1st defendant in Charge FHC/ABJ/CR/05/2016 was my classmate in the Nigerian Law School,my Lord, for the records, I was at the Law School in 1987/88 Academic Session.I am not aware that Olisa Metuh was my classmate in the Nigerian Law School. I cannot recall seeing him in the time session in my time. In the law school, we were over 1,000 students and we had then two sessions, morning that I attended.He is not from my place, Oron, in Akwa Ibom State. I did not see him as a student in University of Calabar that I attended between September 1983 till June 1987.I have never met him in practice anywhere in the country before I was elevated to the bench in June 2009. Again, he claimed he met me in Le Mariden Uyo late last year.I was not in Le Meriden Uyo late last year . I had no function that I attended in Le Meriden Uyo late last year. I did not meet him in Le Meriden Uyo late last year.If the records show that he is a lawyer and was called to Nigerian Bar on November 3, 1988, which record I am yet to see, that cannot affect the facts and the law.I attended recently my class reunion meeting in Abuja, Lagos and Enugu, I did not see Olisa Metuh in the places I mentioned. I am not related to Olisa Metuh in any way, I do not know where he comes from, Justice Abang said.On Metuhs allegation that majority of the judges rulings was in favour of the prosecution, Justice Abang noted that as a lawyer, Etiaba knew what option exists for a party, who is not comfortable with a courts decision.As regard the issue that I made interlocutory decisions in favour of the prosecution in the matter, my response here is simple. And that is, that I am entitled to give decisions in matters placed before me for adjudication having heard parties.That is why there are appellate courts. If he is dissatisfied with those decisions, I think Emeka Etiaba (SAN) ought to know what to do.As regard the alleged non-release of the record of proceedings, I think Emeka Etiaba (SAN) is not fair to me at all. I will leave him to his conscience. He has an improper motive in this regard.For the records, my lord, the defendant applied for the Certified True Copy of proceedings at the time proceedings were going on from day to day. I approved same and directed my secretary to type the proceedings.The proceedings were bulky in nature because I heard the case from day to day. When the secretary concluded typing the proceedings, I abandoned all other matters before me and concentrated on checking the typed proceedings to be in line with what were in the courts records.When I proof-read the proceedings and was satisfied that it represents what transpired in the open court, I endorsed same for certification and released the proceedings to them on March 15, 2016, Justice Abang said.When parties were last in court on March 24, Justice Abang noted that Metuh, in addition to his petition, has applied to the judge to disqualify himself from further trying the case, raining similar issues as contained in the petition.The PDP spokesman has also applied to the court for an indefinite stay of proceedings pending the determination of his appeal.On March 24, Justice Abang adjourned to April 8 for hearing of the both applications by Metuh.The judge said the outcome of his rulings on the applications would determine the future of the case.? If the application for stay of proceedings fails, the defendant will be at liberty to open is defence for the last time, the judge said.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has, again, threatened to cripple Nigeria through series of protests if its leader, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu...

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has, again, threatened to cripple Nigeria through series of protests if its leader, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in detention since October 2015 is not released, a statement by IPOBs Media and Publicity Secretary, Mr. Emma Powerful said.We have endured; we will start the protest that will bring the Nigeria government to its knees. We stopped protests not out of cowardice and fear but, to show maturity and professionalism in what we are doing and to allow the federal government release our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally.In line with his continued detention, we allowed the government to take decision and possibly release the man who did not commit any crime.IPOB blamed President Buharis advisers and alleged that they deliberately mislead him on the ambit of the law which led to the continued detention of its leader, even after court has granted him bail.The presidents advisers, who dont want him to release our leader and those sycophants in his government waiting for his downfall are somewhere waiting to laugh at him and they will be the first to cast himBiafrans are ready for what is to come; we are winning the battle.The protest going on around the world is still in progress and we, in Biafraland, will not stop until our leader is released unconditionally.Biafra is a spirit that possesses those who are chosen people of Chukwuokike abiama (God Almighty).
Many residents in Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities in Udu and Warri Southwest Local Governments of Delta State have been displaced follo...

Many residents in Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities in Udu and Warri Southwest Local Governments of Delta State have been displaced following last weeks clashes between the Urhobo and Ijaw.It was gathered that although normalcy seemed to have returned, many deserted the areas because of fear of reprisals.There were claims of looting and vandalism.Ogbe-Ijoh, headquarters of Warri Southwest, was attacked last week by irate youths from Aladja.They allegedly cut power supply to the town by felling three high tension poles. Traffic in and out of the town remained at its lowest ebb.A source, who spoke in confidence for security reasons, said: Most of the people who left are yet to return; people want to be assured that their lives and property are safe before coming back home.We still live in fear because the only road leading to Ogbe-Ijoh passes through Aladja. Although the road has not been opened, people are scared of what may befall them. So, what we do is to move in groups.Despite the heavy military presence in both communities, it was gathered that homes of Ijaw indigenes in Aladja and neighbouring Urhobo towns were being plundered by suspected hoodlums.The First Vice President of Aladja, Pastor Kingsley Abala, told our reporter on phone that the violence followed the perceived inaction of the state government on the boundary dispute.He said: They (the state government) should demarcate the boundary.Abala called for continued military presence, adding: The military should not leave us (warring communities) alone now. It is their presence that has ensured peace.Also, it was gathered at Aladja that the fear of reprisal attacks still pervade the Urhobo neighbourhoods, especially near Ogbe-Ijoh.Many believed the state government is not doing enough to resolve these communal clashes.There is no need to start setting up any committee; a commission of enquiry set up long ago has turned in its report. What is left now is for the implementation of the White Paper, which emanated from that committee.The document recommended the creation of a green (buffer) zone. Why cant the state government expedite action on this, instead of waiting for the next round of killing, to begin another round of motion without movement? a source conceded.




Nigeria captain John Mikel Obi has refused to commit his future to English champions Chelsea.While speaking to press-men on international duty this week with his country, he said: Lets wait and see. If I get to move in the summer, fine, if I stay, its good, he saidEleven years (at Chelsea) is a long time during which I have won everything at the club.We are now trying to see we get back to our normal selves and next season, the club will make changes in the summer, so we have to wait and see what happens.Mikel joined Chelsea in 2006 after he had controversially first agreed to join Manchester United.He still has a year left on his contract at The Blues as speculations rage on about his future at the club.It is widely believed he is eyeing a big-money move to secure the financial future of his partner and his daughters.Oil-rich Dubai, Turkey and lately China have been mentioned as possible destinations for the 28-year-old midfielder.
Inspector-general of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase has said police officers need God to function. He explained that the strenuous natu...

Inspector-general of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase has said police officers need God to function.He explained that the strenuous nature of their job makes God an important factor.The IGP spoke in Abuja yesterday during the Thanksgiving Service to mark the 11th Biennial Police Games and Week at the National Christian Centre.Arase said:The spiritual upliftment of police officers is very important because it is God that put in vision in our minds and being police officers, our job is so strenuous and difficult. So, we need the presence of God to be able to guide the citizens right.If you are a banker and you make an error, you lose money but as a police officers, if you make an error, you lose lives and you know that is very critical. We police officers must be very prayerful and close to God so that our decisions and the things that we use in pushing up our men are such that are not fatal to their lives.
Nigerian troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, 21 Brigade have cleared remnants of Boko Haram terrorists from three villages in Iza general...

Nigerian troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, 21 Brigade have cleared remnants of Boko Haram terrorists from three villages in Iza general area, killing 25 Boko Haram terrorists and recovering some weapons.The cleared villages were Mballeri, Shuari 1 and Shuari 2, a statement by Colonel Sani Usman, acting Director, Army Public Relations read.In addition, the troops also rescued 18 persons held captive by the terrorists. They comprise of two men, seven women and nine children.The rescued persons have been moved to the Brigades headquarters for further screening and care.Unfortunately, one Civilian JTF accompanying the troops fell off a vehicle and sustained some injuries.He has however since been evacuated to the units Regimental Aid Post for medical treatment and he is in stable condition.
Workers of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company say they have become fearful in their office after some soldiers attached to the 3...

Workers of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company say they have become fearful in their office after some soldiers attached to the 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, Abeokuta, Ogun State, allegedly beat up one of them over poor power supply.They told newsmen that the soldiers, numbering about six and led by one Major Musa, stormed the IBEDC substation  Olumo business hub, Rounder  on March 6 and met one of them, Salau Adekunle, on duty.They were said to have descended on Adekunle, the substations distribution officer, with horse whips.Our correspondent learnt that presently on the average, the barracks and environs got five hours supply daily, which falls short of the soldiers expectation.The victim, whose back bore effects of the flogging, said he ended up in a hospital because of the beating.He said, I was on duty on that day around 12pm when the soldiers came into our office with horse whips. They told me to get up and without explanation, they started beating me. I had to go to the hospital for treatment. I informed our head office and it promised to do something about it.They had come earlier then to threaten us. We reported at our head office and the head of the barracks was petitioned. They complained that they did not get supply regularly, but it is not our fault. They said they would be the ones to determine the number of hours they want power. We told them it was not possible, but they didnt want to listen.Adekunles colleague, who does not want his name in print, said they had explained to the soldiers that the outage was caused by a reduction in the power generation nationwide, adding that the explanation fell on deaf ears.He said the unit officials had received threats from the barracks authorities, making them to be afraid whenever they were on duty. He stated that the barracks had power for between eight to 15 hours everyday until recently when power generation dropped nationwide.He said, Electricity supply is divided into three levels  generation, transmission and distribution. This implies that generation affects transmission, which in turn affects distribution. The relationship between them is directly proportional. If there is less sufficient generated power, then there will be less power at our own side to distribute to the community, including the barracks. Before now, there was supply for at least eight hours and at times, 15 hours.Electricity generation has reduced from 4517MW to 2800MW and now to over 1500MW. All this is known and understood by the soldiers in the barracks, but they pretend as if they do not know; that is why they now get five hours supply per day. Initially, the soldiers blamed us. Soon, it graduated to threats. They once arrested us and took us to their barracks and detained us for hours; l was a victim.Another official said they had been living in fear since the incident happened, adding that threats from the soldiers had intensified.They (the soldiers) said it would not be threats again, but killing. Major Musa said he would send soldiers we dont know. We spoke out because we cannot wait for them to kill us, he said.Attempts to speak to the spokesperson in the brigade proved abortive. However, a soldier attached to the brigade confirmed the attack to our correspondent on the telephone.The soldier, who did not want to be named because he was not authorised to speak to the press, said, I am aware of it (the attack), but I was not around when it happened. Power supply is not regular in the barracks. We used to have power for eight to 10 hours.Major Musa, however, denied leading soldiers to attack the electricity workers.He said, All the information is false. You can come to the barracks to get the correct information.
The Peoples Democratic Party said on Sunday that the people of Rivers State were not interested in the imposition of a state of emergency ...

The Peoples Democratic Party said on Sunday that the people of Rivers State were not interested in the imposition of a state of emergency on the state.The state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Samuel Nwanosike, who said this during a telephone interview with our correspondent expressed dissatisfaction over the call by the All Progressives Congress in the state for a state of emergency.Nwanosike explained that the pockets of violence noticed in some parts of the state during the election was not enough for the APC to call for the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers.It will be recalled that the state Deputy Chairman of the APC, Prince Peter Odike, had called on President Muhammadu Buhari to impose an emergency rule in the Rivers following the level of violence before and during the state and National Assembly rerun elections.Odike, who cited an example of the killing of a corps member, Dumebi Okonta, during the exercise, said only an emergency rule in the state would bring peace to Rivers.But Nwanosike said, Rivers people are not ready for a state of emergency. An emergency rule is not necessary here and will not work here. President Muhammadu Buhari is an intelligent man, who would not be pushed to take a wrong decision.Rivers State is peaceful; it is just that a set of people are trying to cause crisis in order to call for a declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. But the security agencies are working round the clock to frustrate all these.The thought for an emergency rule in Rivers is not only foolish, it is useless. We have states that are facing more crises in the country and nobody has called for the imposition of emergency rule. Why Rivers? Nwanosike queried.Meanwhile, a human rights group, the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights, has suggested that only massive industrialisation and employment of youths would solve the problem of politically-motivated violence and killings in the state.The Chancellor of the group, Dr. Jackson Omenazu, expressed worry that it was becoming difficult for the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct election in the state as a result of violence.Omenazu, who spoke with our correspondent in a telephone interview, advised the government to create an enabling environment for massive youth employment in the state.




Nigeria senior national team will depart for Egypt from Abuja by 9.30 am Monday on a chartered flight.The Eagles will fly out directly to match venue Alexandria and train at the Borg El-Arab Stadium later today. Immediately after the match, the team will return to Nigeria.The team, who trained under floodlights in Sundays training, would square of against Egypt by 6 pm Nigerian time.Egypt remain top of Group G despite Chads shock withdrawal as they now have four points. while Nigeria are second with two points, while Tanzania are bottom on a point.
Borno State Chief Hunter, Mallam Maigana Maidurma, yesterday, renewed his appeal to the military to allow hunters in the state join the ...

Borno State Chief Hunter, Mallam Maigana Maidurma, yesterday, renewed his appeal to the military to allow hunters in the state join the fight against Boko Haram in Sambisa Forest. He said that the hunters were not afraid of any danger because most of them have supernatural powers, which will come in handy in the fight.Maidurma, who made the call in Maiduguri, said they were eager to join the fight, as they are familiar with the terrain at the terrorists Sambisa hideout. He said: We are renewing our call on the military authorities to allow us join the search for Boko Haram elements in their Sambisa forest hideout. We are ready to pursue the terrorists because we know the terrain. He faulted claims in some quarters that the military was cautious of allowing the hunters join the fight due to suspected landmine buried by the terrorists around their hideout.Maidurma said: We know that it is true that the Boko Haram terrorists are in the habit of burying landmines to prevent encroachment into their hideout. But we believe that we can work in collaboration with local vigilantes, called Civilian JTF, to overrun them. Hunters from all 27 Borno local governments are all in Maiduguri with our leaders, doing nothing at present because of Boko Haram.Rather than idling away, we will want to assist the military in crushing Boko Haram terrorists. It will be recalled that the hunters had, last January, appealed to the military to allow them join the Boko Haram fight, without response.
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.
Northern Lights Festival Boreal, in collaboration with Respect Is Burning and Muskoka Brewery, presents Jason Collett on May 7 at the Durham Social in downtown Sudbury.

Northern Lights Festival Boreal, in collaboration with Respect Is Burning and Muskoka Brewery, presents Jason Collett on May 7 at the Durham Social in downtown Sudbury.Much more than a simple pub show, the evening will be the first of its kind to take place in the recently renovated upstairs room of one of Sudburys "most renowned restaurants and feature delicious shareable food, as well as a laid back yet classy atmosphere."A veteran of the Toronto roots and folk rock scene, Jason Collett has been involved in countless notable collaborations, residencies, and songwriting projects over the years, but he's most recognizable perhaps for playing guitar with pioneering indie-rock collective Broken Social Scene.His new album, "Song and Dance Man," produced by Afie Jurvanen (of Bahamas) features a blend of rock and roll and 1970s style smooth disco, brought together by Jurvanens soaring production.He is hitting the road this spring to share this latest effort with Canada, and has enlisted his long time collaborators, "Canadas premiere modern classic rock band," Zeus, to back him.Joining him on tour as the opening act is Polaris and Juno-nominee  and Sault Ste Marie native  Kalle Mattson. For the Sudbury show, past NLFB Meltdown winner Eric Clancy will kick off the evening, incidentally the only Northern Ontario stop on the cross-country tour.Organizers said in a news release the "tapas and a show" evening will be unlike anything Sudburians are used to.After a devastating fire, Respect Is Burning  one of downtown Sudbury's cooler joints  was reborn last fall as a three-bar facility, with the upstairs room being rechristened The Durham Social.The event will also feature a white table silent auction that will serve as a fundraiser for the 45th edition of Northern Lights Festival Boreal (http://nlfbsudbury.com), to be held July 8-10 in Bell Park.Advance tickets are $30 ($35 at the door) and covers the food. They can be purchased by following the links here , at the NLFB office at 19 Grey Street, and at Respect Is Burning, 82 Durham St.
Sudbury Platinum Corp. raises $3M

Sudbury Platinum Corp. (SPC) and Transition Metals Corp. have announced that SPC has raised more than $3 million for its drilling campaign.

Sudbury Platinum Corp. (SPC) and Transition Metals Corp. have announced that SPC has raised more than $3 million for its drilling campaign. In a release, the company said the money was raised by issuing 8,690,834 Flow Through common shares at a price of $0.33 per share; 148,649 Flow Through common shares at a price of $0.37 per share; and, 850,000 common shares at a price of $0.30 per share. File photo.

Sudbury Platinum Corp. (SPC) and Transition Metals Corp. have announced that SPC has raised more than $3 million for its drilling campaign.



In a release, the company said the money was raised by issuing 8,690,834 Flow Through common shares at a price of $0.33 per share; 148,649 Flow Through common shares at a price of $0.37 per share; and, 850,000 common shares at a price of $0.30 per share.



CEO Scott McLean said in the release the funds will be used for a project near Sudbury.



Proceeds will be used to carry out an 18,000 metre diamond drilling campaign at our Aer-Kidd Ni-Cu-PGM property near Sudbury, McLean said.



It will fund testing of major mineralized trends at depth and to complete borehole geophysical surveys in historic drill holes at the newly acquired Lockerby East and West Graham properties in the Sudbury Basin.



Drilling at Aer-Kidd is expected to begin in April.



Post-financing, SPC has 41,086,342 shares issued and outstanding and 45,821,345 shares on a fully diluted basis. Transition Metals owns 15 million SPC shares, the release said, or 36 per cent valued at approximately $4.5 million.



Sudbury Platinum Corporation is a private Canadian corporation focused on exploring for platinum group metals, nickel and copper in the Sudbury region, the release said.



SPC is exploring its Aer-Kidd Property, an advanced exploration property located on the prospective Worthington Offset Dyke, in the heart of the Sudbury mining camp.



SPC also recently acquired 100 per cent of the Lockerby East and West Graham exploration properties formerly owned by First Nickel Inc.

SPCs vision is to become a mine developer in the Sudbury district, the release said.



The Aer-Kidd Property is located 20 kilometres southwest of Sudbury and covers a 1.4 kilometre section of the Worthington Offset Dyke in an area with a rich mining history.



The property is about 1.8 kilometres along strike to the northeast of Vale's Totten Mine, currently in production, and three kilometres to the southwest and along trend of KGHMs Victoria Project, which is currently being developed.



The Aer-Kidd Property hosts the former producing Howland Pit, Robinson and Rosen Mines, which were small deposits mined down to a maximum depth of 300 metres.



More information regarding SPC and its projects can be found at www.sudburyplatinumcorp.com



Transition Metals Corp. is a Canadian-based, multi-commodity project generator that specializes in converting new exploration ideas into Canadian discoveries, the release said.



The award-winning team of geoscientists has extensive exploration experience in established, emerging and historic mining camps, and actively develops and tests new ideas for discovering mineralization in places that others have not looked, which often allows the company to acquire properties inexpensively.



The company has a portfolio that currently includes more than 25 gold, copper, nickel and platinum projects primarily in Ontario, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Minnesota. Got to www.transitionmetalscorp.com for more information.
Espanola student meets prime minister

Frederic Diebel, a 16-year-old student at Ecole secondaire catholique Franco-Ouest in Espanola, had the unique opportunity to meet Canada's Prime Minister and even to take a selfie with Justin Trudeau.

Frederic Diebel, a 16-year-old student at Ecole secondaire catholique Franco-Ouest in Espanola, had the unique opportunity to meet Canada's Prime Minister and even to take a selfie with Justin Trudeau. Supplied photo

Frederic Diebel, a 16-year-old student at Ecole secondaire catholique Franco-Ouest in Espanola, had the unique opportunity to meet Canada's Prime Minister and even to take a selfie with Justin Trudeau.



This meeting between Justin Trudeau and Frederic Diebel took place as part of the Forum for Young Canadians.



This program enables students from across the country to better understand the role of the government and Parliament.



While in Ottawa, Frederic also had the opportunity to visit the House of Commons and to take a seat at the place normally occupied by Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
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With more than 1,800 city businesses involved in the creative and digital industries, Dan Robinson investigates how important they are to our economy.

Stand in the middle of Old Market Square on any given evening and you could find just about any type of music within a few minutes' walk.

You could get a DIY punk band in a sweaty environment at the Chameleon Arts Cafe, an emerging indie band at the Rescue Rooms, a really important up-and-coming electronic dance or hip-hop act at Stealth, a big rock band at Rock City or the world's mega stars at the Motorpoint Arena  all less than ten minutes away from you.

Mark Del, founder of music promotion project Nusic, says: "It's hard to think of another city in the UK where you get that same experience.

"Nottingham has the vibrancy of a big city but the intimacy of a small one, and right now it's having its time  its 'Madchester' moment."

While Nottingham may struggle to forge a strong regional and cultural identity enjoyed by the likes of Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle, it is the eclectic, multi-genre mix that researchers believe to be part of the city's pulling power.

Chris Lawton, senior research fellow in Nottingham Trent University's (NTU) economy division, says it was a key draw for the city's 60,000 students.

They make up 14 percent of Nottingham's working age population, a higher proportion than cities like Sheffield, Leeds and Manchester.

In a survey of 41 NTU students last month asking why they chose the city, music diversity figured highly alongside the wide retail and night time offering.

"Manchester is seen as an international centre of music with some of the biggest bands in the world coming from there," says Mr Lawton.

"But even in such a vast city with all this really interesting stuff going on, you still haven't got this easy access to these really great things you can get in Nottingham.

"It's one of the reasons students come here  it's exciting, varied and really accessible in a way that it's not in other cities."

Since the emergence of Jake Bugg  who releases his third album this summer  put Nottingham on the map, the city has enjoyed a musical renaissance with a variety of acts like London Grammar, Saint Raymond, Sleaford Mods, Amber Run and Indiana all achieving mainstream success.

But genre diversity is also a hindrance, believes Mr Lawton, as it lacks focus.

"One of the problems Nottingham has is it's difficult to simplify that and think of an identity," he says.

"If you think of Manchester, you think of indie and The Stone Roses, Bristol is about hip-hop and trip-hop, but Nottingham is a hard offer to package because it's so varied."

According to the D2N2 local enterprise partnership, there are more than 2,300 registered creative and digital business in Nottinghamshire, mainly concentrated in the city.

Creative England's report of the top 50 creative companies and individuals, published in January, featured five Nottinghamshire firms and people, including GameCity, Jeanie Finlay, AppInstitute, Lockwood Publishing and Wellington Films.

The industry employs 25,000 people across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, split roughly evenly between the two counties.

This accounts for three percent of all employment in the area  one percent below a national average slightly skewered by London, where such firms are overwhelmingly concentrated.

Nationally, these industries contributed five percent  84.1 billion  to the UK's economy in 2014, according to the most recent figures by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Creative industries grew by nine percent in 2014  almost double the size of nation's whole economy growth  and have increased as a proportion of the total UK gross value added (GVA) for four years running.

But estimating its local worth is a more difficult task, says Mr Lawton, because the industry's sectors are mostly small and interlinked, with staff often self-employed and working across different sectors like film, TV and gaming.

Four per cent of the 25,000 industry employees are in music, from gig venues and promoters to record labels and DJs.

DHP Family, which owns Rock City, Rescue Rooms, Stealth and The Bodega, as well as running Splendour and Dot to Dot festivals, has experienced sustained growth over the past two years.

Turnover grew from 14m to 21m between 2013 and 2015, while staff levels have increased from 225 in 2006 to 410 today, including more than 300 in Nottingham.

Last year was the Nottingham-based company's most successful to date, promoting 1,446 gigs across the country, including shows at the Motorpoint Arena, Royal Concert Hall and even Wembley Stadium.

It hosted 750 gigs across its own venue portfolio, which also includes sites in London and Bristol, up 13 percent from the previous year.

More than 1.5 million people came through its doors, including entry to gigs, club nights and festivals.

Managing director George Akins says: "Since Rock City opened it's had a huge impact on bringing people to the city because we've very clearly been the capital of the East Midlands and for a long time the Midlands.

"There's a really great cross-section of venues providing live music for all the different-sized capacities you require to get as many types of shows in one city as possible.

"Sheffield is a very similar-sized city but doesn't have the venues to compete with Nottingham.

"We punch above our weight, up there with Leeds, Manchester and Bristol as first-choice cities outside London for acts to come to."

Mr Akins says the presence of event booking firms See Tickets, based at Norfolk House in Lower Parliament Street, and Gigantic, in St Mary's Gate, in the city helps make Nottingham a "significant music employer".

Home-grown acts have helped stimulate the industry, while there are also a number of independent record labels, including Earache, Gringo and Hello Thor.

Until February 2013, no Nottinghamshire artist had sold out Rock City but since then six acts have achieved that feat, including Bugg, Dog Is Dead, Sleaford Mods and Saint Raymond  creating a "snowball effect" for the area.

It prompted BBC music journalist David Nolan, who has written books about The Sex Pistols, Tony Wilson and Ed Sheeran, to say this could be Nottingham's decade in music.

"This is a genuine city-wide explosion that's not really happened anywhere in Britain since probably Manchester in the late '80s."

Given the legacy of The Beatles adds nearly 82m to the Liverpool economy each year and supports 2,335 jobs in the city, according to a Liverpool City Council report published in February, Nusic's Mr Del says the economic effect for Nottingham could also be "huge".

"Often we associate music with geography and a time period  the dream is that this is Nottingham's decade now," he says.

Mr Del, who helped Bugg to make his breakthrough by giving him his first radio airplay, believes more acts are choosing to be based in Nottingham rather than move to London because its central location makes it easier and cheaper when embarking on UK tours.

He adds: "The likes of Jake Bugg and Indiana now try to recruit their teams locally, whereas 10 years ago they would go to London, and that might be up to 20 staff for some of the bigger acts. That's a direct result of Nottingham having a stronger identity as a musical city.

"It could be the difference between whether someone goes to London, Newcastle or Bristol for university, or they come here  music is a tipping point.

"And that can help attract businesses who are maybe thinking of setting up a headquarters in Leeds to come here instead, just as it brings in students."
Four players were charged by the NRL's Match Review Committee following the first five matches of Round 4 on the Easter long weekend.

Titans forward Ryan James, Raiders forward Frank-Paul Nuuausala and Bulldogs centre Chase Stanley were all charged with grade one dangerous contact  other, while Dragons back-rower Joel Thompson was charged with a grade two careless high tackle.

James is the only player of the four who is facing a possible one-match ban as he has two prior non-similar offences in the past two years, which each carry 20 per cent loadings. James also has 27 carryover points from a prior offence. He could therefore miss the Round 5 derby against the Broncos.

Nuuausala, Stanley and Thompson can all escape bans by taking early guilty pleas, which have a 25 per cent discount on their respective charges.

All four clubs have until 12 noon Tuesday to enter a plea.
WHITING  This tiny city has a storied past that has its roots in what used to be called Standard Oil, now known as BP or British Petroleum, and the railroad, providing access to Chicago.

Whiting School Board member Anthony Borgo, who is also the historian for the Whiting Public Library, and Gayle Faulkner Kosalko, vice president of the Whiting Robertsdale Historical Society, can recap the history of the city at a moment's notice.

Borgo talks about the early days of Whiting. He said 1852 was the first phase of construction of the railroad, providing access to Chicago.

"It was very important," he said. "It was shipping lines from the east coast to Chicago. The first people who settled in the Whiting area were George Roberts and George Clark. They purchased property in the area, and it became known as the Whiting Robertsdale area. Robertsdale is technically Hammond, but the history of that community and Whiting are tied together. Prior to Whiting becoming a municipality, they shared a lot of the same borders."

In the early days, the most important stations located on the Michigan Southern Railroad were Miller, Pine and Whiting. Miller was named after a railroad foreman who was in charge of the construction of the station. Pine was hardly more than a depot. The Whiting station was originally known as Whitings Crossing. The station and the city were named after Herbert "Pop" Whiting, a train conductor for more than 50 years, Borgo said.

In 1880, the Census Bureau counted 115 people in Whiting.

Standard Oil of Indiana was established in 1889, when John D. Rockefeller sent company officials to buy 235 acres of land for a new refinery, and people flocked to the area, and Borgo said it began to resemble a town.

By the early 1900s it was the leading provider of kerosene and gasoline in the Midwest, notes the History of Amoco website. Historians said in 1922, Standard Oil absorbed the American Oil Co., founded in Baltimore in 1910, and began branding products as Amoco, which later would become its company name. The company is now known as just BP.

In August of 1955, there was an explosion at the Standard Oil Refinery which shook the small community and destroyed homes; two people died and 19 were injured.

Michael Schrage, president and CEO of Centier Bank, said the history of the city and the bank are entwined. He said the bank was started by his great-grandfather Henry, who acquired many acres of land which was mostly dunes and swampland.

According to the bank's history, the foundation for this legacy in Indiana business began in 1895, when Henry Schrage opened the Bank of Whiting. One of Lake Countys pioneers, Henry Schrage was Whitings first postmaster and was instrumental in building much of Northwest Indianas economic development. He conducted business during a time of settlement in Whiting, when streets did not exist, cars did not exist, and it took more than a day to travel into Chicago by horse and carriage.

Schrage said his great-grandfather was very involved for many years in Whiting's growth. Today, Centier has 52 banking locations throughout the northern half of the state with the furthest locations in Indianapolis and Fort Wayne.

According to the city of Whiting's website, the community had 10,000 people in 1923, and 4,000 employed at what was then called Standard Oil. Today, the census said there are about 4,891 residents.

Kosalko remembers moving from the Hessville neighborhood in Hammond to Whiting when she was a sixth-grader in 1960 because her father taught at Whiting High School.

"It was a complete change of lifestyle for me," she said. "I noticed among my new friends how much pride they had in their ethnicity, the Polish, the Slovak, the Hungarians. I was Irish, but I hadn't given it much thought. Everyone's father, aunt, uncle, grandfather all worked at Standard Oil then."

Kosalko said there is something very charming about Whiting.

"It's very tiny," she said. "We have a beautiful lakefront. If you're coming home from college or just coming back to visit, everyone takes a drive through the Whiting Park. We also have so many events in Whiting and we're in the 16th year of producing our little newspaper called 'The Write Stuff.' It's totally nonpolitical. It's all about Whiting, the schools, the kids, the events, like the Pierogi Fest, and the arts.

"The homes here are not cookie cutter. Every house is different. People have beautiful flowers in the summer and lots of decorations at Christmas and Halloween," she said.
CHICAGO  Eddie Johnson didnt apply for a chance to become Chicagos police chief, but the departments chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Mayor Rahm Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal.

Emanuel is searching for a new chief during a spike in violent crime, low department morale and intensified scrutiny of police shootings, in particular the death of Laquan McDonald, a black teen shot 16 times by a white officer. Former Superintendent Garry McCarthy was fired days after police video of McDonalds death was released in November.

Johnson, a 27-year department veteran, was named interim police chief Monday after Emanuel bypassed three finalists recommended by the citys police board. A former commander on the South Side, Johnson is black and a Chicago native, satisfying concerns from aldermen who urged Emanuel to involve them in the selection after two consecutive white superintendents came from outside Chicago. Former colleagues credit Johnson with the ability to unify officers.

He is the right person for right now to lead the police department, the mayors spokeswoman Kelley Quinn ahead of a news conference.

Johnson grew up in the rough Cabrini Green housing project until the age of 9, when his family moved to a South Side neighborhood where he still resides. He joined the police department in 1988 and held supervisor roles including lieutenant, deputy chief of area central and chief of patrol, where he commanded 8,000 officers.

The black and Latino caucuses of the Chicago City Council say theyre pleased with Emanuels choice, but some community leaders raised questions about the pick and criticized Emanuels process in bypassing the three finalists.

The Revs. Jesse Jackson and Ira Acree said the mayors actions undermined the police board. Emanuel won a tough re-election bid last year  in which black and Latino votes were key  after vowing to listen more. Emanuel has also been accused of a cover-up in the McDonald case for releasing the video only after being ordered to by a judge.

You would think that in the aftermath of the Laquan McDonald police scandal, that Mayor Emanuel would have learned his lesson and honored his pledge of giving Chicago ultimate transparency in the pursuit of rebuilding public trust, Acree said. There has been nothing transparent in the selection of this superintendent.

Jackson said the culture of the police department needs to be changed and the way an insider was chosen complicates and compounds the crisis within the police department.

Quinn said the mayor spent months talking with community groups before his decision.

A city ordinance allows Emanuel to appoint an interim chief and ask the board for new finalists. Johnson will have to apply. Police Board President Lori E. Lightfoot said in a statement Sunday that the board wouldnt take action until it received communication from the mayor. The board didnt immediately respond to messages Monday.

The announcement comes days after the black and Latino caucuses, who together make up more than half of the citys 50-member council, called on Emanuel to seek a minority and someone from within the department. The Black Caucus stopped short of endorsing Eugene Williams, a black deputy chief in Chicago who was a finalist.

Caucus chairman Alderman Roderick Sawyer said he didnt lobby exclusively for Johnson to get the job, but believed the selection signified that Emanuel heard their concerns.

I just thought he listened to what we had to say, and I believe he thought the qualities (we wanted) made sense, and maybe he picked somebody who fit those qualities. I dont think that we, individually, had any individual say-so in what the mayor did, he said Monday.

Latino Caucus members had been upset that interim Superintendent John Escalante, named to the post after McCarthys departure, wasnt a finalist. But chairman Alderman George Cardenas called Johnson a win-win candidate.

Richard Wooten, a leader of retired officers who worked under Johnsons leadership, said Johnson inspired loyalty among patrol officers and can quiet the storm of community mistrust. However, he noted that the group favored board finalist Cedric Alexander, the public safety director in Georgias DeKalb County.

Alexander said Emanuel offered him the job, then rescinded it. Emanuels office said Alexander was never offered the job.

Anne Kirkpatrick, a white former police chief in Spokane, Washington, also was a finalist.
LAHORE, Pakistan  Pakistan's prime minister on Monday vowed to eliminate perpetrators of terror attacks such as the massive suicide bombing that targeted Christians gathered for Easter the previous day in the eastern city of Lahore, killing 70 people.

The attack underscored both the militants' ability to stage large-scale attacks despite a months-long government offensive against them and the precarious position of Pakistan's minority Christians. A breakaway Taliban faction, which publicly supports the Islamic State group, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Meanwhile, in the capital of Islamabad, extremists protested for a second day outside Parliament and other key buildings in the city center. The demonstrators set cars on fire, demanding that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The army, which was deployed Sunday to contain the rioters, remained out on the streets.

The military reported raids in eastern Punjab province, where several deadly militant organizations are headquartered, and said dozens were arrested. Also Monday, Pakistan started observing a three-day mourning period declared after the Lahore attack.

The Lahore bombing took place in a park that was crowded with families, with many women and children among the victims. At least 300 people were wounded in the bombing.

Even though a breakaway Taliban group, known as Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said it specifically targeted Pakistan's Christian community, most of those killed in Lahore were Muslims, who were also gathered in the park for the Sunday weekend holiday. The park is a popular spot in the heart of Lahore.

Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians and 44 as Muslim, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. Another 12 bodies have not yet been identified, he said.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told The Associated Press late Sunday that along with striking Christians celebrating Easter, the attack also meant to protest Pakistan's military operation in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian Church in Lahore last year.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women.

Sharif had earlier this month officially recognized holidays celebrated by the country's minority religions, the Hindu festival of Holi and the Christian holiday of Easter.

After a meeting with his security officials Monday, the prime minister called the perpetrators of the Lahore attack "cowards" and vowed to defeat the "extremist mindset." Sharif also cancelled a planned trip to Great Britain.

In Lahore, dozens of families were bidding final farewell to their slain kin during funeral ceremonies Monday.

Shama Pervez, widowed mother of 11-year-old Sahil Pervez who died in the blast, was inconsolable during funeral prayers. Her son, a fifth grader at a local Catholic school, had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

On the outskirts of Lahore, in the Christian area of Youhanabad, mourners crowded into a church that was targeted in an attack a year ago.

"How long will we have to go on burying our children," said Aerial Masih, the uncle of Junaid Yousaf, one of the victims in Sunday's bombing.

Ten members of Qasim Ali's family were killed Sunday in the park, all Muslims. His 10 year-old nephew Fahad Ali lay in a a bed in is home, his battered body almost completely damaged. He had lost his parents and a sister, another two sisters were badly injured.

"I don't know how I will be able to do anything, to continue at school," he cried.

Forensic experts sifted through the debris in the park. The suicide bomb had been a crude devise loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the bodies of its victims to cause maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, saying he was known as a militant recruiter.

Malala Yousafzai, a young Nobel Peace Laureate and champion of girls' education  herself a survivor of a horrific Taliban shooting  said she was "devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore."

"My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends," she said. "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected."

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Lahore bombing, saying that in targeting a park filled with children, the attack "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" to the authorities and the people of Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

Analyst and prominent author of books on militants in Pakistan, Zahid Hussain, said Sunday's violence was a coordinated show of strength by the country's religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

The military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has seen over 3,000 militants killed, according to the army. In December 2014 , the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in northwestern city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Hussain said the government has been sending mixed signals to Islamic extremists  on the one hand allowing banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches, while on the other hanging convicts like Qadri and promising to tackle honor killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," says Hussain. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say 'no' to extremism once and for all."

Army chief Gen. Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage non-humans to over run our life and liberty."

The local Punjab government announced it will give roughly $3,000 compensation to the seriously wounded and $1,500 to those with minor injuries from Sunday's bombing.

In Islamabad, extremists had marched into the city on Sunday in protest of the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. Qadri was convicted for the 2011 murder of governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had also criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them.

They rallied anew Monday, demanding that the Christian woman also be hanged and that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

The army deployed Pakistan paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

In Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, the Press Club was ransacked by pro-Qadri supporters on Sunday. Several Pakistani journalists were roughed up and some equipment was damaged. Extremists were regrouping in Karachi ahead of rallies Monday in the country's financial center.

___

Gannon reported from Islamabad. Associated Press Writers Asif Shahzad and Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Asim Tanveer in Multan, Pakistan, also contributed to this report.
A 39-year-old Wall Street executive, Andrew Caspersen came from a life of privilege and opportunity: Groton, Princeton and then Harvard Law School, where the student center is named after his family because of a generous gift from his father.

But the father had a secret that emerged only after he committed suicide in 2009: Finn M.W. Caspersen, a noted financier and philanthropist, was at the time being investigated by federal authorities, suspected of hiding tens of millions of dollars in a tax shelter.

Now it appears that his son, a former Blackstone Group managing principal, may have had his own secret.

Andrew Caspersen was arrested at La Guardia Airport on Saturday evening. On Monday, federal prosecutors working for Preet Bharara, the United States attorney for Manhattan, charged him in a criminal complaint with securities and wire fraud in what they called a brazen scheme to defraud investors  including a foundation affiliated with a major New York hedge fund  of up to $95 million.
Billions is not a politically minded show per se. Its creators are not offering a tsking expose on Wall Street so much as theyre luxuriating in the excesses of power. But Quality of Life imagines Bobby as a creature of pure capitalism, motivated only by the bloodless pursuit of money, without concern for what it means for anyone but himself. In that respect, its like the sprawling Canadian documentary The Corporation, which takes the legal personhood status granted to companies literally and determines that corporate person to be a sociopath. (And not a harmless sociopath, either.) For all his execrable qualities, Chuck can at least claim to have a prevailing instinct for fairness and social order, whatever underhanded means he uses to that end. Bobby wants only to win, and one of the shows consistent pleasures is witnessing what a man without scruples is capable of accomplishing. Its like writers-room limbo: How low can he go?

With the case currently in shambles, our two grandmasters can turn to opponents more easily dispatched. After having the case against Dollar Bill Stearn tossed out in court, Chuck moves against a business-friendly federal judge, Whit Wilcox, who didnt think $89 million in profit off a $211,000 investment was worth a hearing. His play on Wilcox is vintage Chuck, motivated by a mix of punitive rage and genuine righteousness. He couldnt have known in advance that Wilcox was getting kickbacks from a privatized prison system for jailing minorities, but once Lonnie Watley snuffs it out, Chuck makes a five-course meal out of it. His farewell speech  Justice, rooted in truth, watered by tenacity and flowered by wisdom  drips delicious sarcasm like sap from a Vermont maple tree, and the honoree fully deserves it. But Paul Giamatti suggests the sadism that colors Chucks nobility here: Its not enough to achieve justice. He needs to humiliate his adversary, too.

Having played Chuck and the company for fools, Bobby also keeps his talons sharp by stalking weaker prey. He may have understood why investors and protesters were turned off by the Sept. 11 revelations, but damned if hes going to let turncoats get away with defecting. When Stearn makes his triumphant return to Axe Capital, Bobby fakes a fight with him in order to make it seem like theyre on the outs, making it plausible for Stearn to connect with other Axe exiles in their new investment firm, Ionesphere. Compared to the Donnie Caan gambit, its a bush league move from Bobby, but then, Team Ionesphere isnt as formidable as Chuck Rhoades. One howler of a trade sinks the business, and Bobby swoops in to save Ionesphere by squeezing it under his armpit. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.

Bulls and Bears

 The use of Chumbawambas Tubthumping to underscore Bobbys resilience is slyly, bitterly ironic. Most remember the band for that song only, with its irresistible singalong chorus (I get knocked down/But I get up again/Youre never gonna keep me down), but Chumbawamba was a politically motivated outfit that existed for 17 years before their one hit and for another 15 years after that. Given the bands leftist/anarchist/anticapitalist leanings, the Bobby Axelrod association is a tough one.

 Structuring the episode around Donnies funeral proves to be an awkward device, because its not entirely clear where we are in the timeline. Its a good idea to keep coming back to the funeral, because it recontextualizes different relationships among the attendees, but it isnt as well organized as it might have been.
Only the Dead See the End of War, a candid and rare look inside the Iraq war, has its American premiere on HBO. And James Corden joins other celebrities in the cameo-rich series Very British Problems on Acorn TV.

Whats on TV

ONLY THE DEAD SEE THE END OF WAR 9 p.m. on HBO. This documentary, directed by the Oscar winner Bill Guttentag and assembled primarily from hand-held camera footage, is a look at the war in Iraq through the eyes of the Australian journalist Michael Ware. He arrived in Baghdad in 2003 and stayed for seven years, gaining rare access to American troops and insurgents. The result is a frank look at the war from both sides, as well as a story about the rise of the Islamic State. Also available to stream on HBO Go. (Image: Mr. Ware)

LISTED SISTERS 8 p.m. on HGTV. The genre of home renovation reality TV gets a new addition with this series about Alana and Lex LeBlanc, sisters and partners in real estate and home design in Nashville. They meet with clients and help them make the changes they need  knocking down walls, painting, accessorizing  to sell their homes at a profit. Sound familiar?
SYDNEY, Australia  Ben Gray, the co-head of TPG Capital in Asia, will leave the American private equity firm amid reports that he is setting up his own Australia-focused investment firm.

Mr. Grays departure from TPG, set for the end of this year, will leave Timothy Dattels, a former Goldman Sachs partner, as sole head of TPG in Asia.

TPG said it had hired Joel Thickins as its new country head of Australia. Mr. Thickins worked for eight years at the Australian private equity firm CHAMP.

Joel is a proven deal originator with significant experience executing large cross-border transactions, Mr. Dattels said in a statement. We have a strong track record in Australia, and I am confident that Joel will continue to build upon it.
Times Insider shares historic insights from The New York Times. In this piece, David W. Dunlap, a metro reporter, looks back at The Timess coverage of  and involvement in  a shooting on Capitol Hill in 1954.

First-person accounts were not front-page fare in The New York Times of the 1950s.

But C. P. Trussell, a Times correspondent, was grazed by falling debris when a group of Puerto Rican nationalists opened fire on Capitol Hill in March 1954 as the House of Representatives prepared to consider a bill limiting the admission of farm laborers from Mexico. Five congressmen were injured in the attack.

Clayton Knowles, another Times correspondent, was also more than a bystander. When Representative Ben F. Jensen, Republican of Iowa, collapsed at his feet, Mr. Knowles helped loosen the wounded mans shirt collar, so he could breathe more easily. Then he called his editors.

On a tumultuous, frenzied day, The Timess oh-so-distinguished Washington bureau suddenly found itself falling back on cop shop skills.
Many of the more than 10,000 residents of Red Hook credit its isolation  it is surrounded on three sides by water and cut off from the nearest subway by the Gowanus Expressway  with keeping housing costs lower, the streets quieter and gentrification slower than in other parts of Brooklyn.

However, that does not mean that the postindustrial district of crumbling brick warehouses, public housing blocks and quaint row homes has been untouched by development. Upscale boutiques now line Van Brunt Street, shells of luxury condominiums under construction dot the sleepy neighborhood, and major businesses like Tesla Motors and Ikea have moved in.

Another resident worried that the streetcar, proposed by Mayor Bill de Blasio, a Democrat, in his State of the City address last month, might further drive up housing prices and threaten the shabby charm of the district, which saw its first traffic light installed in 2006. Red Hook is one of the few neighborhoods thats still affordable, said Martha Wollner, 65, who moved there in 2009. Were going to have a very different profile down here.

Tom Angotti, a professor of urban planning at Hunter College, said Ms. Wollners fears were justified. A streetcar line would accelerate gentrification and accelerate the displacement of industry, low-income renters and property owners, he said. In fact, thats the stated objective of the proposal, Professor Angotti said of New York City leaders claim that rising property tax revenues along the route could defray the estimated $2.5 billion cost of the project.

While calling the streetcar proposal visionary, Assemblyman Felix W. Ortiz, a Democrat whose district includes Red Hook, urged residents to get involved in the planning process to minimize the risk of displacement. That way the community doesnt feel that theyve been left out, he said.
ENGLEWOOD, N.J.  The old church has sat just up a hill from a main street here since 1870. Its towering steeple has been looked at from blocks away. Its red and beige sandstone walls and 19th-century stained-glass windows have enticed thousands of people to stop and gaze.

The earliest members of the Presbyterian church have connections to this city even today: The local high school, for example, is named for Dwight W. Morrow, an early trustee who later became an ambassador to Mexico and a United States senator. His daughter, Anne, would marry the aviator Charles A. Lindbergh. The couples toddler son, before he was kidnapped and murdered in 1932, is believed to have crawled on the churchs floor.

So when a fire erupted inside the First Presbyterian Church of Englewood on Tuesday, destroying the sanctuary just days before Easter, it seemed all of Englewood had been struck.
State Assembly officials said the message to City Hall had been consistent: that Mr. Heastie had New York Citys best interests at heart, but that he would need time and a little latitude to work with the governor.

He asked me, in general, how things were going in terms of budget negotiations, Mr. Heastie said of his conversation with Mr. de Blasio last weekend. I told him it wasnt high time yet.

Emma Wolfe, the mayors top political aide, said the conversations between city officials and Mr. Heasties office had been continuous. Its not like we sort of enter in February and March and go to them and say, Hey, guys, what should the inside and outside game be? she said. Thats not the dynamic that we have.

Officials with the governors and the mayors offices were quick to point out that irrespective of how often the two leaders had connected personally, their staffs were in regular communication.

Indeed, in many ways the budget process this year has been similar to ones in years past, except in one crucial respect: Mr. Cuomos opening salvo, his executive budget, proposed shifting to New York City nearly $500 million in costs for the City University of New York system and requiring City Hall to contribute a larger share of the payments for the federal Medicaid program.

Almost immediately, Mr. Cuomo said the changes would not cost the city a penny. More recently, amid a fierce backlash, his top officials conceded it had been a negotiating maneuver. As of Friday, the CUNY cost shifts had been resolved, said Dani Lever, a spokeswoman for the governor, in exchange for the hiring of a management consultant assigned to make the university system more efficient. But Medicaid remained an active issue in the negotiations, much of which seemed predicated on resolving a $15 minimum wage opposed by many Republicans in the State Senate.

Doug Forand, a Democratic strategist, said the governors move appeared to be aimed at forcing City Hall and the Assembly to negotiate from a deficit, in the hopes of diminishing their ability to push for other funding.
Updated, 1:38 p.m.

Good morning on this rainy Monday.

Harry Houdini wouldve turned 142 this month, and his craft is kept very much alive by New Yorkers like Adam Blumenthal.

Mr. Blumenthal owns Tannens Magic, which has been in Midtown for 91 years.

Do you have a good imagination? Mr. Blumenthal inquired in a low voice when I visited recently.

Hanging above the entrance is a pair of Houdinis handcuffs  he once escaped from manacles after being thrown in the East River  and behind the counter is a frame containing yellowed, typewritten letters signed by the conjurer.

The clientele of Tannens are professional and amateur magicians, as well as avid hobbyists, Mr. Blumenthal said. It does not cater to witches.
(Want to get this briefing by email? Heres the sign-up.)

Good morning.

Heres what you need to know:

 Taliban strike playground in Pakistan.

The authorities are hunting today for the militants who killed at least 70 people  more than twice as many deaths as in the Brussels attacks last week  at a park in Lahore, Pakistans second largest city.

About 300 people were wounded. The death toll is expected to rise.

A splinter faction of the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast, and its spokesman said the assault was targeting Christians on Easter.
6. The U.S. Capitol was on lockdown for part of the day as police officers shot a man who pointed a gun at them. Details were still emerging, but officials called the episode an isolated incident and said they saw no signs of a larger plot.

_____

Image Credit... Peter Reitzfeld

7. A top executive at a major private equity firm was charged with trying to scam more than $95 million from investors. A regulatory official said the brazen fraud by Andrew Caspersen, 39, amply demonstrates that even sophisticated institutional investors are not immune to financial scams. Shares in his firms parent company, PJT Partners, dropped more than 10 percent.

U.S. stocks had their quietest trading day this year, closing virtually unchanged after a five-week rally.
Court systems commonly raise revenue by punishing people who commit minor offenses with fines, fees and penalties that can pile up, driving them into poverty. Worse still, state and local governments often jail people illegally for nonpayment, putting them at risk of losing their jobs and homes.

The Justice Department responded forcefully to this problem in Ferguson, Mo. This month, the racially troubled town agreed to a federal plan to root out racist and unconstitutional practices in its Police Department and courts. The case put other state and local governments on notice that they, too, could be held accountable for operating court systems that violate the constitutional rights of people charged with nonpayment of fines.

The guidelines issued by the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division explain in detail what courts can and cannot do when enforcing fine collections.

The department says state and local courts have an obligation to inquire about a persons ability to pay fines and fees before jailing them for nonpayment. The Supreme Court has repeatedly ruled that imprisoning a person because he or she is too poor to pay a fee amounts to punishing a person for his poverty and violates equal protection under the 14th Amendment.
To the Editor:

Dying, With Nothing to Say, by Katie Roiphe (Sunday Review, March 20), hits painfully close to home.

I never got a chance to say goodbye to my father. He died while I was on a plane home from Europe to spend a last couple of months with him. That was 26 years ago and it still lies unresolved, deep within me.

If I had the opportunity to turn back the clock, to have had even one last meeting, I would have told him how much I loved him and said what I wanted him to know. What he might have said in return would have simply been icing on the cake.

We cant put too much upon our loved ones who are dealing with death and illness. I only know that, if given the opportunity, the person I am 26 years later would know how to better handle those final moments.
To the Editor:

Re You Budget. Why Shouldnt Congress?, by Nancy Pelosi (Op-Ed, March 22): As chief of staff to Representative George Miller, the California Democrat who developed the pay as you go deficit reduction plan in 1982, I would like to make two points. Although Mr. Miller applied the same standard to all deficit-generating legislation  discretionary spending or tax policy  House Republicans always exempted tax cuts from requiring an equivalent offset, asserting that economic growth would compensate for revenue losses.

Under President George W. Bush, they went a step further and allowed the Paygo law that constricted spending in the 1990s to expire. Unpaid-for tax cuts, the enactment of Medicare Part D, and spending for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan soon dissipated the surpluses that had been projected because of Paygo discipline.

Republican Congresses have since sought to impose offsetting cuts only on domestic spending, including disaster aid, while ignoring such offsets for tax cuts, with predictable results.

JOHN A. LAWRENCE

Washington

The writer served as chief of staff to Nancy Pelosi from 2005 to 2013.
JUSTICE ANTONIN SCALIA was among the greatest jurists in our nations history. Following an era of unchecked judicial activism, he became a model of careful jurisprudence, reinvigorating an originalist interpretation of the Constitution for a new generation. Justice Scalias approach was grounded in the words of legal texts, and not in a judges personal preferences or the vagaries of popular political beliefs.

Throughout his time in office, President Obama has demonstrated contempt for the constitutional principles that Justice Scalia sought to protect. Mr. Obama has proudly suggested that empathy for particular people and groups should motivate a judges decisions  a belief squarely at odds with the judicial oath to administer justice without respect to persons. The president has appointed two Supreme Court justices and many lower court judges who have embraced the sort of judicial activism Justice Scalia spent his career seeking to curtail.

As a senator, Mr. Obama even opposed the nominations of Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr.  two eminently qualified mainstream jurists  because they expressed fidelity to the law as written, rather than a commitment to progressive policy outcomes.

Most troubling, the president has consistently exceeded the scope of his legitimate constitutional authority, declaring that where Congress wont act, I will. One result has been a concerted effort by his administration to stretch the Constitution beyond its breaking point to advance Mr. Obamas ideological objectives  from Obamacare and environmental regulation to immigration policy and gun control.
ON Aug. 31, 1772, a hurricane devastated the island of St. Croix, the home of the teenage Alexander Hamilton. In a letter one week later, he described the force of the storm and the destruction it caused as sufficient to strike astonishment into angels.

His letter included this plea for help for his countrymen: O ye, who revel in affluence, see the afflictions of humanity and bestow your superfluity to ease them. Say not, we have suffered also, and thence withhold your compassion. What are your sufferings compared to those? Ye have still more than enough left. Act wisely. Succour the miserable and lay up a treasure in Heaven. So vivid was his account of the disaster that the letter was published in a newspaper in the Virgin Islands, The Royal Danish American Gazette, and used to support relief efforts for the island.

Im invoking Hamiltons words today, in this plea for relief for Puerto Rico.

Much has been said about the dire economic situation pressing down on Puerto Rico. I am the son of Puerto Rican parents. What can I say to persuade elected officials and policy makers to act? What influence do I have to change the minds and hearts of those in Congress to put aside their differences and deal with the crisis confronting 3.5 million American citizens in the Caribbean? Im not a politician or an economist. Im a storyteller.

More than 150 schools on the island have closed. San Jorge Childrens Hospital, Puerto Ricos largest pediatric hospital, has been forced to close two wings and 40 rooms, and cannot afford to hire the nurses it needs. Its estimated that a doctor a day leaves the island. Engineers, accountants, blue-collar workers and entire families are emigrating daily. According to the census, Puerto Rico has lost 9 percent of its population in the last decade, with 84,000 leaving last year alone.
Last summer, after deceptively edited videos were used to accuse Planned Parenthood of selling fetal tissue, congressional Republicans voted to block all federal financing for the organization, and threatened to shut down the entire federal government if they didnt get their way.

The charges against Planned Parenthood were completely bogus  investigations in 12 states found no wrongdoing, and one, in Texas, resulted in the indictment in January of the video makers.

By then, however, the damage was done. Even before the push in Congress failed, state governments had begun to cut funds for Planned Parenthood, without much national attention.

Since last July, 23 states have tried various ways of cutting money for the organization. So far 11 have succeeded, most recently Florida, where Gov. Rick Scott on Friday signed HB 1411, a sweeping anti-abortion bill that, among many destructive provisions, prohibits Medicaid and other public funds from being used to reimburse organizations that work with abortion providers.
For all the talk of disruption coming out of Silicon Valley, one thing that has tended to remain stubbornly stuck in the past is tech companies architecture. Many of todays most innovative companies are housed in deadly dull, boxy and glassy suburban campuses: Google lives in the rehabbed buildings once occupied by Silicon Graphics, Facebook in a laboratory from the 1960s. Though the interiors might have advanced lighting systems, state-of-the-art fitness facilities and cafeterias serving farm-to-table fare, the exteriors  flat, unarticulated facades; ribbon windows; hard right angles  could come from any suburban office corridor anywhere in the country, and from any moment in the past half-century.

This is why the recently revealed plans for the new campuses of Google, in Mountain View, Calif., designed by Bjarke Ingels and Thomas Heatherwick, and Apple, in Cupertino, from Sir Norman Foster, are so striking: They, like the companies they will house, point to the future  the future, that is, as it looked in the 1960s. Images of the projected Apple campus  a four-tiered ringlike structure nestled in a thickly wooded landscape  evoke the landing of an alien spaceship. The central structure in Ingelss and Heatherwicks design is canopied by a sinuous glass membrane, a protective bubble or amniotic sac, shielding an entire section of the campus  not just buildings but bike paths and desks  while letting the abundant Northern California light stream in. In aerial renderings it looks like larvae, incubating a new and possibly terrifying future.

Like the rest of Silicon Valley, however, this future is in fact rooted in the past. It comes, transfigured, from the wrecked dreams of communal living, of back-to-the-land utopias, of expanding plastic spheres and geodesic domes that populated the landscape of Northern California around the time (and around the same place) that the first semiconductors were being perfected. This is the world of what a recent exhibit at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis has termed Hippie Modernism. Out of the ferment of the 60s came a spectacular brew of experiments that softened the edge of the bureaucratic architecture of Modernism and explored new shapes and styles of building, new ideas about how to live and work. In the world of the counterculture, round and pliant was good; sharp and angular was bad. These concepts found their way into the cinema  into the soft plastic finishes of the circular, rotating space station in Stanley Kubricks 2001: A Space Odyssey, where it was the antithesis of the sourceless, death-bringing black slab monolith, itself almost the clone of that icon of corporate Modernism, Mies van der Rohes Seagram Building. Now those same undulations have found their way back to us, in the form of impregnable corporate campuses for the future-plotting, world-dominating, dont be evil tech industry.

It may sound unlikely, but there is in fact a strong connection between the utopian movements of the 60s and the tech industry; its a topic thats been well explored by academics, most notably in Stanford professor Fred Turners wonderful 2006 history From Counterculture to Cyberculture. Turners book centers on the role played by Merry Prankster-turned-designer Stewart Brand, whose magazine The Whole Earth Catalog, started in 1968 and regularly published through 1972, advocated 60s ideals of autonomy, do-it-yourself design and deep ecological thinking. The cover of the first issue was an image of the earth  another sphere  taken from space, exemplifying its spirit of holism. Brand advertised where you could get tools to build out the new society, among them, critically, new technology, from calculators to Moog synthesizers, which connected him, and the counterculture, to the burgeoning tech scene. Kevin Kelly, a co-founder of Wired and one of the editors of The Whole Earth Catalog, thought that the magazines ethos of sharing products and communications, even its cobbled-together design, prefigured the blog. The young Steve Jobs, for one, was a huge fan. On the back cover of their final issue, Jobs told graduating Stanford students in a 2005 commencement speech, was a photograph of an early morning country road, the kind you might find yourself hitchhiking on if you were so adventurous. Beneath it were the words: Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.  Brand himself would later call Jobs one of the exemplary fusers of the counterculture and technology.

Brand was also an enthusiast for countercultural design ideas as a way to build a new society. In an issue from 1971, he called for the creation of an Outlaw Area, a territory removed from civilization, where human community could be reinvented. Any design fantasy is just loose talk until it happens, he wrote, suggesting that the Outlaw Area would transform our understanding of what human beings were capable of, bending reality off into unimaginable directions with no restrictions save the harsh ones of nature.

The designers who followed up on Brands injunctions over the next decade would create forms that startlingly presage the new office worlds being designed by Google and Apple. Above all, they would take to heart the idea of bending reality, with their embrace of soft, flexible, organic forms. Architects became attracted to furniture and buildings that resembled bubbles. As the design critic Alastair Gordon observed in his book Spaced Out: Radical Environments of the Psychedelic Sixties, not only did the trippy shimmer of the bubble delight the hippies, its transparency and unpredictable movement seemed at once stimulating and human. The visionary architect Buckminster Fullers famous concept of a geodesic dome, a giant all-purpose shelter, drew heavily on bubble imagery. Meanwhile, students at Antioch College in Ohio conceived of a Nomadic/Pneumatic Campus, an outdoor classroom sheltered by a 40-foot-high polyvinyl canopy. For a time the offices of The Whole Earth Catalog, in their temporary digs in Californias Saline Valley, were sheltered in just such a bubble. The fact that they were temporary was the key: Like the conversion of garages into tech offices, the bubble shelter was meant to be forgiving, improvisatory, for a nomadic and restless society seeking a new relationship with how to fuse life and work.

Not that these future society plans were limited entirely to the planet. In 1969, Princeton physics professor, Gerard ONeill, and his students began to imagine how to create a space colony to house a million people. ONeills vision comprised two concentric cylinders (round forms, again), spinning in opposite directions to generate gravity, and on which each person would be allotted five acres of land. The designer Don Norman did a rendering of the concept, and it bears a striking resemblance to the images of the new Google office: Filled with dazzling foliage, plentiful water and bucolic housing, it looks a lot like Marin County, placed under glass.

These images and experiments fueled the imagination of Silicon Valley, even as the young tech entrepreneurs began converting their ramshackle means to far different ends. It was, after all, an earth held in common that inspired the hippie Modernists to find new ways of designing and living. The new unearthly Silicon Valley campuses represent the triumph of privatized commons, of a verdant natural world sheltered for the few. Neither the Google nor Apple campus is open to the public, nor are their designs replicable on the scale that the 60s utopians imagined for their designs. Well after the orchards of Northern California were overwhelmed by glass boxes and suburban tracts, the tech companies find themselves looking longingly at an Edenic, prelapsarian moment, when it seemed that  to adapt a more recent slogan  another world was possible. But what was originally borne from improvisation and a desire to live simply is now borne from unimaginable mountains of cash. The new Apple office will cost an estimated $5 billion, making it possibly the most expensive office building in history. We are dealing with a bubble of a different kind.
Youll recognize Masha right away. True, shes wearing standard-issue ballet gear like everybody else. But her tutu is black. And its not long  shortly after the audience is encouraged to help sing a curtain-raising rendition of the Boomtown Rats I Dont Like Mondays  before she clinches the identification with her immortal signature line: Im in mourning for my life.

Otherwise, it may take you a while to figure out which unhappy Chekhov character is which in The Seagull and Other Birds, wherein the experimental Irish troupe Pan Pan turns one of modern dramas great seminal works upside down, inside out and every which way but loose.

For one thing, the thwarted souls of Chekhovs The Seagull are never quite themselves in this giddy act of theatrical implosion, which opened this weekend at the Abrons Arts Center. They may often speak the familiar dialogue of those well-known anguished Russians Arkadina, Konstantin, Nina, Sorin and Trigorin (as well as mopey Masha), albeit with a fresh peppering of Anglo-Saxon obscenities.

But the six cast members portraying these oft-incarnated characters usually address one another by the names of the performers playing them. (Since the actress playing Nina is named Judith Roddy, Nina is always referred to as Judith.) And sometimes, without warning, theyll transform themselves into a whole other set of fictional folk, without regard to appropriateness of age or gender.
PLANES, TRAINS AND CHEFS

Many airlines provide meals in their front cabins designed by celebrity chefs. But a charter flight this Thursday from Los Angeles to the Pebble Beach Food & Wine festival will carry several, including Michael Voltaggio and Neal Fraser, along with guests attending the March 31 to April 3 event. The 30-passenger flight will include small bites designed by the chefs along with rare wines served during the roughly hourlong trip. Tickets cost $5,000 and include a four-day pass to the event with access to private parties.

Extending chef exposure, the luxury travel company Belmond has announced a train trip from Singapore to Bangkok on the Eastern & Oriental Express with the Australian chef and restaurateur Luke Mangan next fall. The three-day trip, departing Oct. 28, will include a chef-led tour of a food market in Singapore followed by meals onboard prepared by Mr. Mangan and a cookbook signing reception with him. The train carries 82 passengers, and prices start from $2,820.

HOPPER FORECASTS CHEAPER FLIGHTS TO CUBA

The airfare prediction app and website Hopper is forecasting that flights to Cuba, currently averaging $717 from the United States if traveling through a foreign country like Mexico or Canada, a practice that is illegal, will drop almost 50 percent, to an average of $364, once commercial American carriers are allowed to operate. Major U.S. carriers filed permits to operate commercial flights to Cuba earlier this month, though it is unknown when they will be approved or begin. Current regulations require a visa for travel under 12 eligible circumstances, including family visits and people-to-people travel, and travelers must book through a charter flight service, considered more expensive than flights competing in the open market. Hopper looked at airfares to destinations around Cuba, including the Bahamas, Cayman Islands and Cancun, Mexico, from airports in the United

States and direct flights to Cuba from Canadian cities to make its analysis, including projecting that nonstop service from Miami will cost $275 round trip. Hopper says flight searches between airports in the United States and Cuba have jumped 500 percent in the last year.

CRUISING CROATIA BY SMALL SHIP

The culturally focused Peter Sommer Travels, run by the archaeologist and eponymous BBC documentarian, has added a new small-ship itinerary in Croatia this fall. Guided by a university professor who specializes in art, architecture and history, the eight-day trip aboard a 12-passenger wooden gullet departs Sept. 17 from Split and travels down the Adriatic coast. The itinerary explores a Roman palace, ancient Greek colony, the regions tallest mountain and the islands of Hvar and Korcula en route to the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik. Rates start around $3,900 a person, double occupancy.
CHICAGO  Former Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich of Illinois could soon learn whether the United States Supreme Court will hear an appeal of his conviction on charges of corruption that included an attempt to sell an appointment to President Obamas old Senate seat.

Mr. Blagojevich, 59, a Democrat, had five of his 18 convictions thrown out last July and has asked the court to overturn those remaining. He is serving a 14-year prison sentence.

The Supreme Court justices deliberated Mr. Blagojevichs petition on Friday during a weekly case conference, The Chicago Tribune reported on Sunday.

The court typically issues orders on the Monday after deliberating a petition. Decisions to not consider such petitions are usually noted without explanation.
A Cruz-Kasich ticket is the best way we can stop Trump, he said. Its time to think big here.

If they will not run together, said Mr. Graham, they at least need to form an alliance in which they divvy up states to not drain votes from each other  something neither seems willing to do. The main thing is weve got to get into the convention with Trump under 1,237 delegates.

Yet other top Republican officials are not nearly as dedicated to plotting this or any strategy to deny Mr. Trump a majority before the party gathers in July in Cleveland.

Even those who have signaled they are likely to support Mr. Cruz are dragging their feet. Gov. Scott Walker of Wisconsin, who has spoken favorably of Mr. Cruz, said he would not announce his choice until closer to his states April 5 primary  for maximum impact.

Mr. Rubio, who praised Mr. Cruz as the only conservative left in the race after his exit, has been perhaps the most conspicuous holdout. He is one of the few Republican senators who gets along well with Mr. Cruz, and the two have been in touch since Mr. Rubio withdrew from the race.
Usually, by the time night has fallen, the fire has laid down and often goes out by itself, said Eric Ward, a fire-planning specialist with the Kansas Forest Service. But the combination of persistent wind, low humidity and a unique terrain with deep canyons complicated firefighting efforts around Medicine Lodge.

Much of Kansas, theres a section of road every mile. You can drive a mile ahead of it and take a line against the fire, Mr. Ward said. Down here, theres a lot of pretty much unbroken country, and the only thing breaking it is the canyons you cant cross.

Over the weekend, officials were still assessing the extent of the damage, including how many cattle had been killed.

It was unclear how many firefighters had volunteered their services  many came for a day, worked a shift, then returned home. But officials said help came from more than 100 departments, from the states largest cities and smallest towns.

One large contingent of volunteers arrived from Hutchinson Community College, where students studying to be firefighters had been spending their spring break preparing for a controlled burn a few counties away. When word spread of the wildfire in Medicine Lodge, they canceled their training session and came to help with the real thing.

Caleb Watts, 20, a Kansas native in the college group who was fighting his first fire, said it was gratifying to be able to help. Mr. Watts said he hoped to one day be a wildland firefighter, though probably not in his home state. Ill probably go west, he said, where they normally get out of hand like this.
HAVANA  The White House made sure the wireless signal inside the Grand Theater of Havana was strong and fast last week as President Obama made his case for change to the Cuban people. He spoke of evolution and burying old wounds from before he was born. He bluntly challenged President Raul Castro of Cuba, sitting across the hall, to change his ways.

Outside that theater and throughout Cuba, Internet access ranges from sluggish to nonexistent, and change is equally slow. The wounds that Mr. Obama spoke of are the defining grievances of Mr. Castros lifetime and that of his older brother, Fidel.

The 30 years between Mr. Obama, 54, and Mr. Castro, 84, help explain the vast gulf that separates the two leaders, on vivid display last week as the American president made a historic visit to Cuba.

Mr. Obamas trip was calculated to highlight the generational contrast and appeal to a younger cohort both in Cuba and in the United States, presenting his vision for a thaw as the inevitable way of the future, and the hostility and isolation that came before as the stale remnant of another century.
SHAXI, China  The woman shuffled around her shop in the village square, telling visitors how she came to be selling wooden swords and woven slippers to tourists rather than tending to her fields.

He Yuqing, 60, wore a blue tunic and apron, common among older ethnic Bai women of this verdant valley in the Himalayan foothills. In the plaza outside, afternoon sunlight fell across cobblestones on which horse caravans once trod.

She said she had been renting the shop from the local government for eight years. If an international architecture team had not restored the squares ramshackle wooden buildings, she said, she would be doing hard labor among her fields of corn, fruit and grains.

Before they restored this, it just wasnt as beautiful, she said. They did a good job.

In a project little known outside China, a Swiss-led team worked for years to renovate the square of Sideng Village. The square was the site of the main market in Shaxi, a valley dotted with Bai villages in the Hengduan Mountains of southwest China.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  The math alone is a bewildering exercise for Mahfuz Anam, the editor of Bangladeshs most popular English-language newspaper. Since February, the number of legal claims against him has climbed to 79 cases: 62 for defamation and 17 for sedition.

If convicted in all of the cases, Mr. Anam faces a prison sentence of up to 175 years. In the meantime, he is obliged to crisscross the country to appear at hearings in 50 of the countrys 64 judicial districts, and is petitioning the countrys high court to consolidate them. In some instances, he said in a recent interview, I might have to physically appear in more than one place on the same day.

Officials say the government is not behind the barrage of litigation, though many of the cases were filed by activists with the ruling Awami League, and at least one by an assistant public prosecutor. They were filed after Mr. Anam made an unusual public confession, expressing regret over articles that his newspaper, The Daily Star, published years ago on uncorroborated allegations of corruption against the current prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

Ms. Hasinas control over Bangladeshs political system has tightened since 2014, when the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party boycotted parliamentary elections and the Awami League swept the polls, virtually unopposed. That election pushed the Nationalist Party and its leaders to the margins of public life, where they have remained, despite a violent protest campaign that resulted in more than 100 deaths last year.
Ms. Hartmann is being kept on a suicide watch, which means that the light must stay on 24 hours a day so that guards can check on her every 15 minutes, Mr. Mettraux said. These are standard operating procedures for arriving war criminals, but the lawyer said treating a journalist this way was incomprehensible.

Ms. Hartmanns case has baffled tribunal lawyers for some time. She reported on the 1990s war in Yugoslavia for Le Monde and then served as the spokeswoman for the tribunal prosecutor, Carla Del Ponte.

After leaving her job, she wrote a book, titled Peace and Punishment, and an article, parts of which angered several judges.

Ms. Hartmann was convicted of contempt of court in 2009 for writing about how tribunal judges had agreed that sensitive records provided by Serbia could be used in closed sessions of the court but kept out of the public eye. She said that she had not revealed the contents of the records, but that the victims had a right to know about the deal that kept them confidential.

Other journalists and Mrs. Del Ponte have also written about the negotiations over these records, which involve the minutes of the wartime meetings of the Supreme Defense Council led by Slobodan Milosevic, who was the Serbian president at the time. The records, which were much coveted by the tribunal prosecutors, offered insight into Serbias role in the Bosnian war from 1992 to 1995.
WASHINGTON  The brothers who carried out suicide bombings in Brussels last week had long, violent criminal records and had been regarded internationally as potential terrorists. But in San Bernardino, Calif., last year, one of the attackers was a county health inspector who lived a life of apparent suburban normality.

And then there are the dozens of other young American men and women who have been arrested over the past year for trying to help the Islamic State. Their backgrounds are so diverse that they defy a single profile.

What turns people toward violence  and whether they can be steered away from it  are questions that have bedeviled governments around the world for generations. Those questions have taken on fresh urgency with the rise of the Islamic State and the string of attacks in Europe and the United States. Despite millions of dollars of government-sponsored research, and a much-publicized White House pledge to find answers, there is still nothing close to a consensus on why someone becomes a terrorist.

After all this funding and this flurry of publications, with each new terrorist incident we realize that we are no closer to answering our original question about what leads people to turn to political violence, Marc Sageman, a psychologist and a longtime government consultant, wrote in the journal Terrorism and Political Violence in 2014. The same worn-out questions are raised over and over again, and we still have no compelling answers.
MEDFORD, Mass.  Even in contemporary music circles, Luigi Nono remains a peripheral presence. Rectifying that was the aim of Utopian Listening, a fruitful conference held from Wednesday to Saturday at the Granoff Music Center at Tufts University here, with cosponsorship from Harvard.

On one level, Nonos near invisibility is strange. His compositions are hardly more challenging than those of his contemporaries, avant-gardists such as Pierre Boulez and Karlheinz Stockhausen. At times he was just as innovative, particularly in his embrace of electronic and spatial techniques, starting in the mid-1970s and lasting until his death in 1990. And he had international notoriety on his side: The 1961 premiere of his strident opera Intolleranza 1960 in Venice was halted by neo-Fascist protesters wielding stink bombs and shrieking unprintable names, as this newspaper delicately put it.

But really, Nonos absence from even the contemporary standard repertory is entirely predictable. His was music written to change the world, and, crucially for his reception in the United States, it was music written from the political left. Although he was a critic of dogmatic ideology, he joined the Italian Communist Party in 1952 and its Central Committee in 1975. As serialism was, for him, a fusion of music and politics, it was all too easy for hostile critics to fault him, as Harold C. Schonberg did in 1965, writing for The New York Times, for being too occupied with values other than music.

But now that the last frost patches of the Cold War are melting away, its time to reassess. Attended by Nonophiles aplenty, including the composers widow, Nuria Schoenberg Nono, the Utopian Listening conference could have offered little of interest. But the musicologists Joseph Auner and Anne C. Shreffler, among the organizers, thought to invite influential, talented soloists to workshop and perform Nonos late electroacoustic chamber pieces in three concerts over the weekend.
SAN FRANCISCO  What briefly appeared to be a potential bidding war for Affymetrix, a genetics analysis technology maker, fizzled out on Monday after the company chose to stick with a takeover bid from Thermo Fisher Scientific over a higher bid from a Chinese-backed suitor.

In a statement, Affymetrix reiterated its support for the $14-a-share offer from Thermo Fisher that it accepted in January.

Hours later, Origin Technologies, a shell company financed by the Chinese private equity firm SummitView Capital, withdrew its offer of $17 a share.

Last week, Affymetrix delayed a meeting on the Thermo Fisher transaction after Origin, a shell company run by executives of another genetics analysis company, raised its 11th-hour takeover bid to $17 a share, from $16.10 a share.
These changes come after the company disclosed in late February that it was being investigated by the Securities and Exchange Commission over potential accounting problems related to its relationship with the mail-order pharmacy Philidor Rx Services, which it controlled. Valeant disclosed in a securities filing that the restatement involved some $58 million in revenue that was improperly included in its 2014 financial statements.

For a company reporting billions of dollars in sales, that amounts to hardly more than a drop in the bucket. But as the S.E.C. has learned over the years, accounting problems are rarely limited to a single transaction, so it can be expected to undertake a thorough review of Valeants financial statements to see whether there are more questionable entries in the corporate books.

The company sought to portray itself to the regulator as cooperative by accusing its former chief financial officer, Howard B. Schiller, and former corporate controller of engaging in improper conduct that led to incorrect information being given to Valeants directors and outside auditors. This reflects a recent push by regulators and prosecutors to get companies to disclose who is responsible for misconduct, rather than just taking the blame at the corporate level while individuals avoid liability.

Valeants finger-pointing drew a quick response from Mr. Schiller. He issued a statement through his lawyers asserting that at no time did I engage in any improper conduct that relates to any restatement of revenue the company is considering.

More important for Valeant, Mr. Schiller has refused to relinquish his position on the companys board, which gives him a front-row seat to observe how it responds to the investigations. As Steven Davidoff Solomon, the Deal Professor, has pointed out, Valeant has few options to remove Mr. Schiller before its next annual meeting, which means he could be around for another couple of months.
TOKYO  Dell has agreed to sell its Perot Systems subsidiary, which provides information technology services to hospitals and governments, to the Japanese technology company NTT Data for almost $3.1 billion, NTT Data said in a regulatory filing on Monday.

The deal is part of a reorganization by Dell as it prepares to buy the data storage provider EMC for $67 billion. That transaction, the largest ever in the technology industry, was announced in October.

Dell bought Perot Systems, founded by the entrepreneur and onetime presidential candidate Ross Perot, for $3.9 billion in 2009 as it tried to expand beyond its struggling core business of making personal computers. But now Dell is shedding peripheral units and raising cash as it prepares to take over EMC.

For NTT Data, the deal would add to a string of foreign acquisitions in the last several years. Once part of Japans government-owned telephone monopoly, Nippon Telegraph and Telephone, NTT Data was spun off after its parent company was privatized in a process that began in the 1980s.
Finger blood tests from Theranos, the medical start-up, produced more irregular results than conventional tests offered by the nations two largest clinical laboratories, researchers reported Monday in the first published independent assessment of the companys tests.

Theranos also came up with no answer at all for 2.2 percent of the measurements requested, something that virtually never happened with the two other labs, Quest Diagnostics and LabCorp.

The results, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, are not entirely negative. By and large, Theranoss measurements agreed with those of the other labs, and cost much less. Still, the study is almost certain to raise more doubts about the companys assertion that it had found a way to revolutionize medical testing.

On Thursday, Theranos sent a letter to the journal, hoping to stop it from publishing the paper. The letter, signed by Theranoss laboratory directors, called the study flawed and inaccurate and added, We are disappointed that any journal would accept this study for publication.
For Brett Fox, just getting around an airport could be difficult enough. From check-in to security lines to finding a meal that he actually wants, it added stress to the journey.

But then he discovered the turn-by-turn direction feature on American Airliness app when he and his family arrived at Miami International Airport from a Bahamas vacation last fall.

With it, he could find La Carreta  a Cuban restaurant at the airport where he had dined years before but whose name he could not remember  on the airports map.

My wife and I had three kids who were hungry, said Mr. Fox, a sales manager based in St. Louis for a legal research company. He did a search for Cuban restaurants at the airport, found La Carreta, and the app showed us exactly where it was and the best way to get there.
The first new mouse model in which the Zika virus can be tested was described in a medical journal on Monday.

Research into drugs or vaccines that might work against Zika has been hampered because there have been no approved animal models in which to test them. Testing is normally done first in cell lines, then in mice and finally in monkeys before human testing can ethically begin.

In The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, virologists at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston announced that they had found a type of immune-deficient mice that lost weight, became lethargic and died when infected. Normal laboratory mice do not.

The work was done in January, and other researchers may have found other mice in which to do testing, said Shannan Rossi, the studys lead author. But this was the first mouse model to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.
That, if you were counting, was four ons  one, as it turns out, for each of the arrests that the ostensibly excised warrant led to over the next several years. The first occurred a few months after Mr. Bowens February court date when, according to a police report, he was riding his red Schwinn bicycle to a psychiatrists appointment and pulled up onto the sidewalk near Linden Boulevard and Euclid Avenue in Brooklyn. He was stopped by the police, who asked for his identification. And when the officers ran it through the system, they found the warrant.

Mr. Bowen spent several days on Rikers Island before having a hearing about the warrant, and when he finally saw a judge, court papers say, he was summarily released.

Months passed. Then, on Nov. 13, 2010, Mr. Bowen was stopped by the police a second time. On this occasion, records show, he received a summons for public drinking. Once again, an officer asked for his ID. Once again, Mr. Bowen produced it. Once again, he was arrested on suspicion of evading the open warrant. And once again, when he finally appeared in court, a judge determined that the warrant should never have been issued and had, at any rate, already been closed. The judge even gave Mr. Bowen an official document that said the warrant had been dismissed. According to court records, the judge advised Mr. Bowen to show the piece of paper to the police if they tried to arrest him again over the warrant.

Which is exactly what he did on Sept. 2, 2012, when he was stopped by the police for a third time  for being at a playground after dark. The earlier situations were repeated: Mr. Bowen was asked for his ID and the warrant was found in the system. But even when he produced the judges letter, the police ignored it, court papers say. Mr. Bowen was arrested and taken into custody overnight.

It was always the same, he said. Theyd ask for my ID. Id show them my ID. Then off Id go.

The final episode took place in July 2013 when Mr. Bowen and a girlfriend were riding home from Coney Island on the subway. It was a sweltering afternoon, the air-conditioning in their car was out and Mr. Bowen, still recovering from recent hernia surgery, was suffering from the heat. So he, his girlfriend and several other passengers, he said, walked between two cars while the train was in motion. The police were in the second car, he said, and saw them. According to a police report, Mr. Bowen was stopped, asked for his ID and taken into custody over the warrant. But as he was being booked, he told the police that because of his surgery, he needed medication.
Light radiated from the large, leaded front window of 58 West 10th Street on Thursday night, as it does most Thursdays and Fridays. Books and journals spanned the windowsill, and a soft yellow garland of stained glass framed the back of a mans head. Up the stoop and inside, under another rope of vines sculpted into the ceiling, the voice of Major Jackson filled the parlor as he read poems from his collection Roll Deep.

The corner store, with its faded graffiti lines,

finally whitewashed, nearly expunged,

doubtless like its author save for his palimpsest 

The mostly bespectacled audience was rapt, a few clutching glasses of white wine. Marilyn Hacker, a winner of the National Book Award and a former editor of The Kenyon Review, had just finished tracing the lives of dyke vegetarians from Park Slope, Brooklyn, and Syrian refugee children.

Poetry is poetry, Ms. Hacker said after the reading, but this is certainly a very lively place for it.

Image Major Jackson at the Writers House, which holds readings on most Thursdays and Fridays. Credit... Hilary Swift for The New York Times

The 1836 house, officially known as the Lillian Vernon Creative Writers House, is one of the few places left in Greenwich Village to hear authors such as Jonathan Lethem, Sharon Olds, Junot Diaz and Zadie Smith  even the Barnes & Noble around the corner on the Avenue of the Americas has closed. And yet the building and the activities there are as much a part of the 21st-century Village as the brasseries and boutiques that fill its crooked streets. This is no down-and-out collective or impromptu salon. For the past decade, it has been the home of New York Universitys Creative Writing Program.
Peter Stanford, who turned a boyhood obsession with boats into a commitment to preserve the South Street Seaport and commemorate New York Citys maritime history with a museum and a parade of tall ships celebrating the nations bicentennial, died on Thursday in Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y. He was 89.

The cause was a stroke, his wife, Norma, said.

We saw the barren, windswept plazas that were being built downtown, and we knew we were racing the bulldozer, Mr. Stanford told The New York Times in 1998.

Since then, he and his successors have struggled to transform the citys original port on the East River into a festive destination for tourists and New Yorkers alike, complete with historic ships, nautical craftsmen, maritime exhibits, and shops and seafood restaurants centered on the old Fulton Fish Market.

A site just south of the Brooklyn Bridge was declared a landmark and designated for urban renewal and historic preservation after Mr. Stanford and his wife founded Friends of South Street in 1966. Ada Louise Huxtable, The New York Timess architecture critic, endorsed their campaign (calling it the first really promising preservation venture that the city has undertaken in environmental terms), and State Senator Whitney North Seymour Jr. sponsored legislation for a museum.
To the Editor:

Re 2 States in West Propel Sanders in Caucus Wins (front page, March 27):

What I dont understand is why caucuses are part of the democratic process, as they are inherently undemocratic. People must show up at a specified time and be prepared to spend several hours. How many of us can and are willing to do that? And why do the parties allow this?

My other pet peeve is the fact that some caucuses and primaries are open, some semi-open and some closed. Why should Republicans help to choose the nominee for the Democratic Party, and vice versa?

There needs to be a set of uniform rules, at least within a party. Democratic and Republican party members should be the ones selecting their respective candidates, and that should be done only at a primary where there is voting all day long.

LAURA STERN

New York

To the Editor:

Your March 27 editorial Who Has the Candidates Ear? talks about the redistributive ideals that have defined Senator Bernie Sanderss campaign. By using this language, you are voicing the Republican censure of any talk of socially responsible economic policy.
To the Editor:

It is rare that I agree with John McCain on any subject and rarer that we have heroes in common. But his March 25 Op-Ed article, The Good Soldier, giving tribute to unrecognized heroes of the greatest generation  Americans who fought and often died in the first stand against fascism, the Abraham Lincoln Brigade  brought on that rare occurrence.

At a time when many prominent Americans were supporting the rising fascist tide in Europe, brigade members voluntarily went to Spain to fight in one of the 20th centurys noblest struggles. The brigade has long been an inspiration to me, and its members, heroes. Senator McCains tribute to them is as deserved as it was surprising to me.

LARRY KRESSLEY

Cortlandt Manor, N.Y.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia  On a recent weekend excursion out of the city, I stopped for coffee at a cluster of roadside shops selling refreshments for travelers heading to the jungle-shrouded highlands that form the spine of Malaysia. A young man was sweeping the small yard outside the outbuilding that housed the restrooms; he was the janitor and handyman, he said, but he was wary when I tried to strike up a conversation.

He was from Bangladesh, he told me, and had been in Malaysia for three years. He was called Yunus, but there was no way I could tell if that was his real name.

During the rest of my weekend trip, I noticed how many immigrant workers there were in the countryside, as accustomed as I am to seeing them in the capital city. Theyre on construction sites, in factories and on huge palm oil plantations. But most Malaysians will encounter those who work in the lower ends of the service industry, waiting tables in cheap restaurants or, in Yunuss case, cleaning restrooms.

These immigrants tend to be found in what the locals call 3D jobs: dangerous, dirty and difficult. In short, jobs that few Malaysians nowadays are willing to do.
To the Editor:

Re A Lifeline for Puerto Rico (editorial, March 13):

As stakeholders work toward a solution to Puerto Ricos debt crisis, it is critical that we adhere to the principle that any restructuring should require the approval of a majority of creditors and should respect the rights and concerns of all creditor classes.

In contrast, any House bill that does not permit fair negotiations and instead includes the cram down provisions favored by the Obama administration that would force nonconsensual debt restructurings on creditors will fail to preserve Puerto Ricos access to the capital markets, which is critical for the commonwealths economic future and its ability to meet citizens needs. It would also fail to address the fundamental operational and fiscal problems that have hamstrung Puerto Ricos economy.

With the right structure in place, fair deals can be reached between the commonwealth and its creditors. A case in point is the restructuring agreement reached between the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority and its creditors that I helped negotiate. This nearly $8 billion deal provides a good precedent. It was approved last month by the Puerto Rican legislature and is progressing well.

Any legislation must include the ability to reach and preserve consensual deals like this and allow all stakeholders to work toward a successful resolution of Puerto Ricos debt issues.
At a preview of the new American Museum of Natural History exhibition Dinosaurs Among Us, scientists gave a tip of the hat to Thomas Henry Huxley, the man who proposed in the 1860s that dinosaurs never really vanished from Earth. Most did go extinct, but their evolutionary legacy lives all around us. They are birds, all 18,000 species of them.

While Charles Darwins book of books, On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, was still in print in 1859, Huxley, a lecturer in paleontology and natural history in London, wrote a favorable review and became a convert to Darwins theory. In a debate the next year, Huxley got the better of the bishop of Oxford, and became known thereafter as Darwins bulldog. He was also the first in a long line of Huxleys who distinguished themselves in science and the arts.

A few years later, Huxley enlisted Archaeopteryx, a fossil specimen found in a Bavarian limestone quarry, in his defense of Darwin. He was struck by the specimens many reptilian features; but for a feather in the fossil, it would probably have been misidentified as a reptile. In a report in 1867, Huxley established the evolutionary relationship of birds and reptiles, citing 14 anatomical features that occur in birds and reptiles alike, but not in mammals.

Archaeopteryx was one of those missing links in the fossil record that Darwin worried was a weakness in this theory of evolution. Huxley called attention to the feathers and wishbone of this early bird and the long bony tail of a reptile. This was a species in transition.
Nuclear Power

Short-Term Thinking

TO THE EDITOR:Re Amid a Graying Fleet of Nuclear Plants, a Hunt for Solutions, (March 22): The fading of enthusiasm for nuclear power in the United States is part of the pattern of our abysmal failure to address climate change. It is a function of markets that are distorted to reward the very short term and to neglect indirect costs. The biggest competitor to nuclear, and to unsubsidized wind and solar, is natural gas. Cheap now, but costly in greenhouse gases emitted. While some regions are finally getting the message, providing potential subsidies to keep their nuclear units running, it is far from adequate.

Theodore M. Besmann Columbia, S.C.

The writer is a professor of nuclear engineering at the University of South Carolina.

Appendicitis

Merits of Antibiotics

TO THE EDITOR:

Re A Choice for Treating Appendicitis, March 22: As a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy in 1945, I was already aware of the use of antibiotics in the treatment of appendicitis. If a Corpsman had the responsibility of treating a person with appendicitis while out at sea, it was preferable to use penicillin (available at that time to the armed forces) and local freezing rather than attempt to do an operation for which we were inadequately prepared.

Dr. Sheldon Lichtblau, Fort Lee, N.J.

TO THE EDITOR:

I had an intelligent patient in my office, just yesterday, who related that his appendix had ruptured last September, while his providers had put him on antibiotics, as they watched and waited. He volunteered that, if he had not been able to reach the hospital rapidly after his symptoms suddenly took a turn for the worse, he may have died. Before CT scans and M.R.I.s, before antibiotics, surgeons knew, not to let the sun set on an acute abdomen and that, if the surgical pathology report did not come back negative for appendicitis 5-10 percent of the time (upon which, todays plaintiffs lawyers would pounce), the surgeon was underoperating. This meant that the surgeon was, therefore, missing life-threatening cases of true appendicitis. Contrary to Ms. Brodys contention, this was not a matter of surgeons greed, it was a matter of saving lives.
In this series for T, the writer and author of Worn Stories, Emily Spivack, interviews creative types about their most prized possessions.

Petra Collins is a photographer who came to New York from her native Toronto a couple years ago with little more than a suitcase and a traditional Hungarian candlestick that keeps her connected to her family and her heritage.

I keep this Hungarian wooden candlestick on the top of my refrigerator along with all my other candles. Its big and ugly, especially next to all my pretty candles, and it doesnt really make sense to have in my apartment. I brought it with me when I moved to New York from Canada two and a half years ago. Ive carried it with me from apartment to apartment in Chinatown, the Lower East Side and Williamsburg  about 10 apartments since I arrived. I dont have much stuff, but this candlestick has moved with me everywhere.

Image Petra Collins Credit... Casey Kelbaugh for The New York Times

After my grandmothers sister passed away in Hungary, my mom wound up with her candlestick and passed it along to me. Ive held onto it because I respect the women in my family, especially my mom. She emigrated from Hungary to Canada alone  she was a refugee from Hungary during the Soviet reign and came to Canada with nothing. She didnt even tell her family that she was leaving because she didnt want them to get in trouble. During the 1980s, the only flights you could take from Hungary were to other Communist countries. Her flight was to Cuba, but it had a layover in Canada. When she landed in Toronto, she ran off the plane and applied for refugee status. Since her suitcase was going to Cuba, she basically came to Canada with nothing and without speaking any English.
SAN FRANCISCO  The Justice Department said on Monday that it had found a way to unlock an iPhone without help from Apple, allowing the agency to withdraw its legal effort to compel the tech company to assist in a mass-shooting investigation.

The decision to drop the case  which involved demanding Apples help to open an iPhone used by Syed Rizwan Farook, a gunman in the December shooting in San Bernardino, Calif., that killed 14 people  ends a legal standoff between the government and the worlds most valuable public company. The case had become increasingly contentious as Apple refused to help the authorities, inciting a debate about whether privacy or security was more important.

Yet law enforcements ability to now unlock an iPhone through an alternative method raises new uncertainties, including questions about the strength of security in Apple devices. The development also creates potential for new conflicts between the government and Apple about the method used to open the device and whether that technique will be disclosed. Lawyers for Apple have previously said the company would want to know the procedure used to crack open the smartphone, yet the government might classify the method.

From a legal standpoint, what happened in the San Bernardino case doesnt mean the fight is over, said Esha Bhandari, a staff lawyer at the American Civil Liberties Union. She notes that the government generally goes through a process whereby it decides whether to disclose information about certain vulnerabilities so that manufacturers can patch them.
Outside, the daffodils have blossomed, and new leaves are unfurling from the trees. But inside the performance space Jack in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, blizzard conditions prevail. During William Burkes sometimes interesting and sometimes exasperating Pioneers!#goforth, swirling snowflakes coat the hair, bags and sweaters of the assembled crowd.

Of course, this isnt snow, exactly. Its shreds of plastic that cascade from cradles in the ceiling and then are blown about by fans. This ersatz weather fits the speeches uttered by the actors Nikki Calonge, Ugo Chukwu and Zoe Geltman and the songs composed and sung by Catherine Brookman. They describe futile searches for authenticity and originality, in which half-remembered commercials and blearily recalled photographs seem somehow more real than actual lived experience.

This sense of artificiality is echoed in the script as well, a series of monologues with occasional pauses, which Ms. Calonge introduces as a ripped-off version of what could happen, of what happened. She explains this while dangling in a rope net strung above the audience. (A deliberately uncomfortable set, it abrades the actors and invites neck strain in the audience, but it also perhaps suggests the suspension young artists may feel when unable to commit to a work or a life.)

Mr. Burke, a writer and director whose previous work includes the food was terrible and Comfort Dogs: Live From the Pink House, likes to meddle with, and sometimes excise, elements taken for granted in traditional theater: character, plot, stage space. His ideas are nearly always marvelous, the execution less confident. Though the actors are lively and distinct, their long monologues arent especially compelling, which Mr. Burke seems to acknowledge in a speech that the actors give twice: This is like the most boring thing. This is like a phone conversation. This is not theatrical.
Her face framed in full nuns habit and filling the screen almost edge to edge, she answered viewers questions at a leisurely, sigh-punctuated pace that accommodated the long digressions that became her trademark.

She wisecracked about nuns, once describing the ones who taught her in parochial school as the meanest people on Gods earth. She dispensed religious opinions sometimes at odds with Vatican policy. She lectured teenagers on fornication, bishops on theology. And at her most passionate, she attacked feminists and other liberals she saw as undermining the authority of the church.

It was a television style that made her irresistible to traditionalist Catholics, who never warmed to American church leaders efforts, after the Second Vatican Council of 1962-65, to demystify rituals and nudge congregations toward greater social engagement. That audience contributed generously to her enterprise, donating what The National Catholic Reporter estimated at $25 million annually in 1994.

Mother Angelicas outspokenness on church issues  her pet peeves were gender-neutral language in the liturgy and a change allowing girls to become altar servers  made her both friends and enemies among the Catholic faithful.

It also brought her into conflict with members of the church hierarchy.

In 1993, when a World Youth Day event in Denver featured a woman playing the role of Jesus Christ in a Passion play, she called it blasphemous, and delivered a litany of complaints during her show about what she called the ungodly influence that liberals were having on the church.

I am so tired of you, liberal church in America, she said. I resent you pushing your anti-Catholic, ungodly ways upon the masses of this country.

Archbishop Rembert Weakland of Milwaukee, a prelate identified at the time with the churchs progressive wing, called her remarks disgraceful, un-Christian, offensive and divisive. The administrative body of American bishops, then known as the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, asked that the segment be pulled from the networks lineup of reruns. Mother Angelica refused.
Gay rights advocates in North Carolina filed a federal lawsuit on Monday, challenging a new state law that overturns local protections for gay and transgender people, and bars transgender people from using public bathrooms that do not match the sexes stated on their birth certificates.

The plaintiffs, a coalition of individuals and civil liberties groups, charged that the bill approved on Wednesday by the Republican majorities in the General Assembly, and signed by Gov. Pat McCrory, a Republican, violated the Constitution and federal anti-discrimination laws.

Lets be clear: The legislature and Governor McCrory have done nothing less than encourage discrimination, said Chris Brook, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina.

Chris Sgro, executive director of Equality North Carolina, a gay rights group, said, Our national partners have told us that this is the most sweeping and the most dangerous anti-L.G.B.T. bill theyve seen at least this session, and in quite a while.
Covering Mr. Sanders is at times like watching a man almost surprised by his success and eager to make it last. And Mr. Sanders, a senator from Vermont who rarely attracted more than a handful of reporters on Capitol Hill, is now trying to convince the news media that, despite his lagging delegate tally, his cause is not lost.

Unlike our colleagues, especially those who cover Hillary Clinton, we in the Sanders press corps rarely lack access to the candidate. Mr. Sanders holds midair and plane-side news conferences regularly, taking questions from as many as a dozen journalists. I went hiking with his campaign aides through the Grand Canyon before the Arizona primary, and have chatted extensively with his wife, Jane, who sometimes serves bags of trail mix to reporters on late-night flights. Mr. Sanders learned early on how to pronounce my name, which not everyone gets right. (Its YAH-MEESH.)

It may not surprise you to hear that Mr. Sanders rarely strays from his message, even as reporters traveling with him search for fresh angles amid his laments about millionaires and billionaires and his promise of a political revolution. But he can be aware of the limits of his endless recitations.

I remember talking with him in a small side room in January in Iowa as hundreds of supporters waited for him to speak. As our conversation wrapped up, I asked Mr. Sanders how he would tailor his message to voting blocs in the coming state primaries and caucuses. Instead of responding directly, he began repeating part of his stump speech, which I have now heard more than 90 times, explaining that the American middle class is disappearing and that almost all of the new income is going to the top 1 percent.
WASHINGTON  Brandon T. Betterman pleaded guilty to jumping bail in the spring of 2012. He spent the next 14 months in a Montana jail waiting to hear what his punishment would be.

He complained to the judge, saying the delay had put him on an emotional roller coaster due to the anxiety and depression caused by the uncertainty. In the summer of 2013, the judge finally sentenced him to seven years in prison, with four years suspended.

On Monday, Mr. Bettermans lawyer tried to convince a skeptical Supreme Court that the delay had violated the Sixth Amendments guarantee of the right to a speedy trial.

The Supreme Court has never said whether that right applies to the sentencing proceedings that follow convictions. The answer matters, Justice Elena Kagan said on Monday, because the vast majority of criminal prosecutions end with guilty pleas.
WASHINGTON  The police on Monday shot a man who pointed a gun at them in a screening area just outside the United States Capitol, briefly unnerving the city a week after the bombings in Brussels.

As the scene unfolded in the entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center and law enforcement officials swept the Capitol complex, employees and visitors inside were forced to stay in place for almost an hour. Others who were on the grounds were asked to evacuate as the police cordoned off the site and nearby streets.

The man, identified by the police as Larry R. Dawson of Tennessee, and a female bystander who suffered minor injuries were taken to a nearby hospital, law enforcement officials said. Mr. Dawson was in stable but critical condition, according to the authorities.

Law enforcement officials quickly ruled out terrorism, saying that they were convinced that Mr. Dawson had acted alone. There is no reason to believe that this is anything more than a criminal act, said Chief Matthew Verderosa of the United States Capitol Police.
Senator Ted Cruz, a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, has proposed surveilling Muslim neighborhoods. His chief rival, Donald J. Trump, says he would deport millions of undocumented immigrants and allow the use of torture. The campaign has also produced calls for carpet bombing in Syria and steps to rein in the press at home.

But you have to wonder: If elected, could a new president intent on pushing or exceeding the boundaries of the Constitution or the law actually follow through? Or would the Constitution, the Geneva Conventions and other long-established legal barriers leave the new president unable to turn heated and sometimes hyperbolic campaign talk into reality?

Reflecting the mood of a populist and often angry Republican primary electorate, Mr. Trump and to a lesser extent Mr. Cruz have at times suggested that they would not be constrained by political correctness or traditional boundaries.

Among their critics, the more provocative proposals from Mr. Trump and Mr. Cruz are viewed as hateful, ineffective and unlikely to ever become detailed policy proposals, much less American policy. President Obama, asked about Mr. Trumps proposals during a trip to Argentina last week, largely shrugged, saying the countrys separation of powers imposes a limit to some of the damage.
Federal authorities have arrested more than 1,100 people since February as part of an enforcement campaign against gangs that traffic guns, drugs and people across United States borders, officials said.

The gangs caught in the dragnet were not small-time operators, said Sarah Rodriguez, a spokeswoman for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

We are talking about sophisticated organizations who are involved in human trafficking, who are involved in drug smuggling, gun smuggling, she said.

Of the 1,133 people arrested during the five-week operation, more than 900 were members or associates of gangs, including MS-13, the Surenos, the Nortenos, the Bloods and several others based in prisons, the immigration agency said in a statement.
MEXICO CITY  Fidel Castro, the former president of Cuba, offered a critical response on Monday to President Obamas recent visit to his country, declaring that despite the warming relations between the two Cold War enemies, we do not need the empire to give us anything.

In a long and digressive letter titled Brother Obama published in Granma, the official Communist Party newspaper, Mr. Castro struck a discordant note with the countrys political class, including his younger brother Raul Castro, the current president.

Mr. Obama did not meet with the elder Mr. Castro during his three-day visit to Cuba last week, which was meant to be a capstone to efforts to bury hostilities between the two countries, and to encourage the reform of Cubas flagging economy and political system.

Mr. Castro, who is 89 and has not been seen in public since last summer, remains highly influential in the Communist Party even after his retirement, and took the opportunity on Monday to offer a counterpoint to the optimism of Mr. Obamas visit.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  It took Bangladeshs High Court less than two minutes on Monday to dismiss a petition aiming to remove the designation of Islam as the countrys state religion, a challenge that had wended its way through the court system for 28 years.

The effort had struck a nerve among Bangladeshis, whose tug of war over secularism and Islam dates to the 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. The countrys largest Islamic political party had declared a nationwide strike on Monday, and Sunni Muslim groups had staged protests demanding that the hearing be called off.

They need not have worried. A swarm of lawyers had barely taken their seats when Justice Naima Haider ruled that the group of 15 petitioners, 10 of whom had died as the case navigated the court bureaucracy, had no standing to raise the issue with the court.

Subrata Chowdhury, the lawyer who filed the original petition 28 years ago, looked lost as he listened to the judge.
Q. Ma started out as an outspoken, slightly goofy businessman. Now he is attending major political events like the China Development Forum  which is a major way for Beijing to promote China. Has he chosen to go into politics of his own free will, or has he allowed himself to be co-opted as a matter of survival?

A. Even before he founded Alibaba, Jack was a regular speaker at conferences at home and abroad. His public appearances have been critical for him to grow and maintain his profile. He is the ultimate performer, his folksy charm and seemingly impossible ambitions as effective in English as in Chinese.

Before he founded Alibaba, his third venture, Jack worked as a civil servant in Beijing, giving him valuable insights into the intersection of business and politics in China. This is crucial as he expands his empire beyond e-commerce into areas such as finance. The process isnt smooth however: Jack has already encountered powerful vested interests such as opposition from state-owned banks alarmed by the rapid growth of his money market fund or plans for an online bank.

Q. Is Alibaba, whose business depends heavily on private vendors using it to sell their wares, really committed to getting rid of counterfeit products as demanded by the Chinese State Administration for Industry and Commerce (S.A.I.C.)?

A. Fakes and unscrupulous traders are part and parcel of commerce. In China, as in the U.S., there are people who actively seek out fakes, people who are unwilling or unable to pay for the real thing.

Simply moving trading online doesnt eliminate the problem, but it has created tensions between S.A.I.C., the brand owners who suffer from piracy and operators of e-commerce platforms like Alibaba. The short-lived, but very public, spat with S.A.I.C. in January 2015 illustrated that Alibaba has no choice but to step up its efforts to root out fakes on its platforms: to help the government do its job.

Image

Alibaba became famous for Taobao, the platform where small merchants or individuals sell a wide range of third-party products  including fake products, especially in the early days. Merchants who pass off fake products as real can expect to see their store ratings and business suffer. Alibaba can also shut down the Alipay accounts of repeat offenders, and use big data to analyze trading patterns.
LAHORE, Pakistan  Riaz Masih and Nasreen Riasat had been married for four years, with their first child on the way in just a month, when they decided a slow walk in the park would be just the thing to enjoy a pleasant Sunday evening in Lahore.

In a moment of calculated cruelty, they were thrust into the long roll call of families victimized by a jihadist suicide bomber on the Easter holiday, and among the vast accounting of terrorisms toll on a country racked by extremism, again and again, for years.

I cant figure out what happened! Mr. Masih said, his voice choking with grief as he lay in a bed at Lahores Jinnah Hospital on Monday. Ms. Riasat, his wife, was torn apart by the bombers blast, she and their soon-to-be-born child among the dozens killed. Within minutes, I lost my wife. I couldnt save her.
A photograph of Raghavendran Ganesan, 30, on Facebook shows the software engineer at his wedding in 2014, embracing his bride, his neck adorned with garlands as flower petals filled the air surrounding the couple.

His family had been looking forward to Mr. Ganesan returning home to India after four years in Brussels, a brother-in-law, Bala Subramanian, wrote in a series of Twitter posts on Monday. He had been saving up and planned to return in May to his wife and the couples first child, a son born last month. Mr. Ganesan had met his son only once, his brother-in-law said.

Mr. Subramanian described Mr. Ganesan as a calm, polite man who was an orthodox Brahmin, a caste of Hinduism associated with sacred learning and the spiritual guidance of others.

On March 22, two years and two days after the young couples wedding, as Brussels reeled from coordinated terrorist attacks, Mr. Ganesans family and Indians living in Belgium took to Facebook to exchange information on his possible whereabouts and to offer one another support.
The evidence that had led to the arrest of the man named Faycal C. was not substantiated by the evolution of the ongoing investigation, Thierry Werts, another spokesman for the federal prosecutor, said in a statement. Consequently, he has been freed by the investigative judge.

Belgians writing on Twitter in Dutch expressed outrage over the latest turn of events. We got him but it was the wrong guy #painful, said one. Another fumed: Cheffou the new hero of the Left on Twitter. Im going to be sick. Others, mostly writing in French, pilloried the authorities for having arrested Mr. Cheffou in the first place.

Mr. Cheffou had been picked out of a photographic lineup by a cabdriver who shuttled three men to Brussels Airport, where two of them  Ibrahim el-Bakraoui and Mr. Laachraoui  blew themselves up at 7:58 a.m. last Tuesday. Mr. Bakraouis younger brother, Khalid, blew himself up at 9:11 a.m. at the Maelbeek subway station.

The death toll from the attacks rose on Monday to 35, as the authorities reported that four victims who had been hospitalized died from their injuries. The toll, which was reported by the Belgian health minister, Maggie De Block, did not include the three suicide bombers.

In an interview on Sunday, Yvan Mayeur, the mayor of the City of Brussels, the central borough of the 19 municipalities that make up the Belgian capital, said that the taxi driver had identified Mr. Cheffou in a police photo lineup, but that the authorities were still waiting for DNA confirmation that he was the bomber.

Mr. Mayeur added that he did not know whether Mr. Cheffou had been involved in terrorism, but did know him to be a local troublemaker who had repeatedly disrupted a camp of refugees in Parc Maximilien, near the Gare du Nord railway station.
Lauriane Visart was intent on using her law degree for the public good.

Only four years out of law school, Ms. Visart, 27, had landed a job at the Union Nationale des Mutualites Socialistes, an association of organizations that offer Belgians health insurance to supplement their government-provided benefits. She specialized in public procurement contracts.

As part of her legal education at the Universite Catholique de Louvain, Ms. Visart participated in a student exchange with Laval University in Quebec. She was an intelligent student, recalled Marc Verdussen, a scholar of constitutional law at Universite Catholique de Louvain, in a tribute on Facebook. She was all smiles and bubbly enthusiasm.

Many Belgians got to know Ms. Visart  who was killed in a suicide attack on March 22 at the Maelbeek subway station in Brussels  after her father, Michel, gave a moving interview to the public broadcaster RTBF.

This is a pain, I think, that we cannot describe, he said, while expressing empathy for the relatives of terrorism in Paris, Tunis and elsewhere.
JERUSALEM  After a monthslong diplomatic standoff with Brazil over plans to install a former settler leader as its ambassador there, Israel pulled back on Monday  reassigning him to a post in the United States after the government in Brasilia refused to approve his appointment.

The office of Israels prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, issued a brief statement saying he had decided to appoint the former settler leader, Dani Dayan, as consul general in New York.

He will replace Foreign Ministry career official Ido Aharoni, who is completing his term, the statement said. Officials in the prime ministers office and in the Foreign Ministry declined to comment further.

Mr. Dayan said he had told Mr. Netanyahu, who also serves as foreign minister, that he preferred the position in New York when the Brasilia job was first discussed. I believe in my ability to bring about a revolution in Israeli public relations in North America, he wrote in a text message, and New York is its beating heart.
The Caesar, done right, is a multiplatform salad. Beyond the taste of the thing  which is spectacular  it is experienced across all the senses, a riot of contrasts, cold and crunch.

First, cool watery leaves against thick, savory dressing. The hard crunch of croutons against the soft crunch of salad greens. Then sharp mustard against rich cheese; salty anchovies against bright lemon; and biting garlic against soothing egg.

Sadly, its rare to find a Caesar on the open market that gets even a couple of those elements right. So many atrocities are presented under that name: baby greens suffocated under an avalanche of fake cheese; wilting spinach leaves drowned in milk-bland dressing; innocent romaine crammed into plastic containers with unspeakable proteins.

Thats why a perfect Caesar is the one you make at home. And our favorite modern version is one with more greens going for it than romaine. Romaine has become the standard choice, and its a fine one, but the original formula called for strong, bitter leaves to stand up to the rich, salty dressing.
The brothers Zach and Alex Frankel were reared on the Upper West Side of Manhattan but live in Brooklyn now and missed the local smoked fish emporiums of their childhood. So they are doing something about it: opening on Saturday on the border between Williamsburg and Greenpoint their own version of the appetizing shops they love. Zach Frankel has been in the restaurant business as a manager and chef; his brothers career has been in music. Together, as they put it, theyre paying homage to Barney Greengrass, Murrays and Russ & Daughters, with the usual white glazed tiles and old family photos. In addition to selling smoked fish, pastrami, bagels and bialys, they have a chef, Ashley Berman, chopping chicken livers, making matzo ball soup and braising brisket based on a recipe from Anita Frankel, the brothers grandmother, for fork-tender beef, a tad sweet in the older generation tradition: Frankels Delicatessen & Appetizing, 631 Manhattan Avenue (Bedford Avenue), Williamsburg, Brooklyn, 718-389-2302, frankelsdelicatessen.com.
There are many things to love about my toddler daughters (ages 20 months and almost 4 years), but dining out together is not one of them. My husband and I take them to the local diner or Mexican restaurant every Saturday night because I need a break from cooking, and the girls have to learn how to dine out.

Even when it goes smoothly, its mildly torturous. I spend the entire time mentally planning and anticipating their every need in hopes of avoiding a meltdown or disaster. My husband inhales his meal, while I nurse a beer, take a few bites of my food and end up finishing it from a takeout container a few hours later, after the girls are in bed.

Enter Nibble and Squeak, a new service (it calls itself a dining club) in New York City that plans meals at of-the-moment restaurants for groups of parents and their children. The kids eat at the adults table; they are not banished to another room to eat overpriced chicken nuggets and watch cartoons. Parents need not worry about disturbing other diners because Nibble and Squeak takes over the entire dining room or rents a private room for the event.

Last week, my older daughter and I attended one at Upland, Justin Smillies restaurant in the Flatiron district that features classic California cuisine. (The New York Times restaurant critic, Pete Wells, gave it two stars last year, not long after it opened.) I hadnt been to a restaurant with cloth napkins since my younger daughter was born in July 2014.
THE LITTLE RED CHAIRS

By Edna OBrien

299 pp. Little, Brown & Company. $27.

Edna OBriens boldly imagined and harrowing new novel, The Little Red Chairs  her 23rd work of fiction since The Country Girls (1960)  is both an exploration of those themes of Irish provincial life from the perspective of girls and women for which she has become acclaimed and a radical departure, a work of alternate history in which the devastation of a war-torn Central European country intrudes upon the primal innocence, lost to most places in the world, of rural Ireland. Here, in addition to OBriens celebrated gifts of lyricism and mimetic precision, is a new, unsettling fabulist vision that suggests Kafka more than Joyce, as her portrait of the psychopath warrior poet Vladimir Dragan suggests Nabokov in his darker, less playful mode. Should we not recognize immediately the sinister Dr. Vladimir Dragan of Montenegro, the author has placed this poignant passage as an epigraph:

On the 6th of April 2012, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the start of the siege of Sarajevo by Bosnian Serb forces, 11,541 red chairs were laid out in rows along the 800 meters of the Sarajevo high street. One empty chair for every Sarajevan killed during the 1,425 days of siege. Six hundred and forty-three small chairs represented the children killed by snipers and the heavy artillery fired from the surrounding mountains.

Like a figure in a malevolent Irish fairy tale, a mysterious stranger appears one day seemingly out of nowhere on a bank of a tumultuous river in western Ireland, in a freezing backwater that passes for a town and is called Cloonoila. The stranger is himself mesmerized by the manic glee of the deafening water.

Soon, the curious, credulous inhabitants of Cloonoila fall one by one under the spell of Dragan, Vuk, or Dr. Vlad, a professed poet, exile, visionary, healer and sex therapist. To one, he resembles a holy man with a white beard and white hair, in a long black coat; so priestly, one might genuflect. To another, he is a figure of hope: Maybe hell bring a bit of romance into our lives. Schoolchildren think he looks a bit funny in a long black smock, with his white beard, but consider him harmless. The village schoolteacher is suspicious, suggesting that the stranger may be a kind of Rasputin, another notorious visionary and a healer, but no one chooses to listen. The young Catholic priest Father Damien is initially wary of Dr. Vlad only because the outsider represents a threat to church authority and because he has advertised himself as a sex therapist: This is a Catholic country, and chastity is our No. 1 commandment. OBriens portraits of Irish priests are rarely flattering, and Father Damien is a font of cliches and empty rhetoric. You see, he says of the local residents, many feel a vacuum in their lives . . . marriages losing their mojo . . . Internet dating . . . nudity . . . hedonism . . . the things I have heard in confession. The presumed spiritual leader of the community is as readily taken in by Dr. Vlad as the others, confiding in him that repentance and sorrow for sin is woven into our DNA.

In these briskly satirical exchanges OBrien can be as wittily lethal as Muriel Spark eviscerating the foolish, but OBriens sympathy is more fully engaged by those women  lonely, childless, naive  who fall more deeply under the spell of Dr. Vlad. Theres Sister Bonaventure, a nun who pays for a massage from the practitioner of holistic healing in Eastern and Western disciplines: She felt a flash of blinding light and was transported to the ethereal. More crucially, there is the town beauty Fidelma, married to a man much older than her and desperate to have a child, who contrives to be impregnated by the charlatan therapist, but with disastrous results both for her marriage and for herself. Their union, after Fidelma tells him the legend of a playboy who promises to kiss girls unto their necklaces, verges on the surreal, it is so self-consciously mythic:

 Unto your necklace, he said and kissed her and they lay down, his body next to hers, seeking her with his hands, with his mouth, with his whole being, as if in the name of love, or what she believed to be love, he could not get enough of her. Her breath came in little gasps, their limbs entwined, the healer and she, the stranger and she, like lovers now, as in a story or in a myth.
A Lee County judge delayed the start of indicted Speaker of the House Mike Hubbards trial in an order issued Monday morning.

The trial date, previously set for April 11, will be announced in a future order, according to Circuit Court Judge Jacob A. Walker III. Hubbards pretrial conference, previously set for March 29, also will be rescheduled for a later date.

The delay comes in response to state prosecutors motion to continue, filed Friday, because of special prosecutor Matt Harts knee surgery being scheduled for this week. In the motion, the state maintained that Hart would not be in a position to attend the pretrial conference or the beginning of trial, as scheduled.

Due to Harts pending surgery, the court will grant the states motion and continue the trial and pretrial conference. The court will issue a more detailed order setting trial and pretrial dates in the future, Walkers order states.

Hubbards defense team consented to the continuance of the trial, but filed a motion Monday opposing the continuance of the pretrial conference, citing numerous outstanding issues that need to be addressed.

Hubbard is requesting that trial be rescheduled for August in order for his newly retained counsel to review materials, such as the voluminous record and discovery and to provide adequate assistance of counsel, in addition to matters pending review by the court and the Supreme Court of Alabama.

Hubbard was indicted on 23 felony ethics charges of using his political position for personal gain in October 2014. He has maintained his innocence.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  It took Bangladeshs High Court less than two minutes Monday to dismiss a petition aiming to remove the designation of Islam as the countrys state religion, a challenge that had wended its way through the court system for 28 years.

The effort had struck a nerve among Bangladeshis, whose tug of war over secularism and Islam dates to the 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. The countrys largest Islamic political party had declared a nationwide strike Monday, and Sunni Muslim groups had staged protests demanding that the hearing be called off.

They need not have worried. A swarm of lawyers had barely taken their seats when Justice Naima Haider ruled that the group of 15 petitioners, 10 of whom had died as the case navigated the court bureaucracy, had no standing to raise the issue with the court.

Subrata Chowdhury, the lawyer who filed the original petition 28 years ago, looked lost as he listened to the judge.

Without a hearing, without giving any chance, he said helplessly.

Later, back at his office, he commiserated with a circle of stunned colleagues.

Im very disappointed. This case was our baby, he said. Ive never seen anything like this. At least a proper hearing should have taken place. We had prepared so much.

After winning independence from Pakistan in 1971, Bangladesh was declared a secular nation, but a military ruler amended the constitution in 1988 to make Islam the state religion. The 1988 petition challenging this decision went nowhere until the governing Awami League, which positions itself as a secular party, took power in 2009.

The courts ruling Monday came at an anxious time. Attacks on religious minorities have become more frequent over the past year, leading to fears that Islamic fundamentalism is on the rise. Kamal Hossain, the politician who drafted Bangladeshs original constitution, said he was uncertain why the case was being heard now after so many years, and at such a sensitive time.

The decision to dismiss the case was greeted jubilantly by Muslim leaders, who linked arms and flashed victory signs for television cameras as they left the court.

Mufti Masum Billah, the chairman of the Bangabandhu Ulema Foundation, a religious nonprofit, said there was no need to worry about Islams status as a state religion, since the constitution protects freedom of religion.

Bangladesh has a state flower  its the water lily, he said. We have a state fruit  the jackfruit. Why shouldnt Islam be our state religion?
Seven months after Santa Ana began licensing medical marijuana dispensaries, officials say there are up to twice as many unlicensed pot retailers as sanctioned shops in the city.

Some licensed dispensaries say competition from unregulated shops  which arent subject to the same city taxes, limits on operating hours and other oversight  is threatening to put them out of business.

Were stoked to have a store, and were trying to do everything right, said Jeffrey Holcombe, co-owner of 420 Central dispensary. But the rogue stores are making it extremely tough.

There are unlicensed sellers who openly thwart the law, authorities say. Others are challenging the citys procedure for awarding licenses or argue they have a legal right to provide medical marijuana as collectives under the states 20-year-old Compassionate Use Act, which legalized medical marijuana.

The Santa Ana Police Department has a dedicated task force working on enforcement of the medical pot industry and says it has shut down more than 90 of the 109 unlicensed operations identified to date.

Shuttering the remaining 20 or so unregulated shops has been a lengthy, difficult process, exacerbated in part by lack of information on who is actually running the businesses, said Cmdr. Jason Viramontes.

We do everything within our power to shut these down, Viramontes said.

The ongoing enforcement battle in Santa Ana, which has the only sanctioned pot shops in the county, highlights a larger question infusing the statewide debate over legalization of marijuana: Can the government gain full control of a gray, retail pot market that has gone largely unregulated for two decades?

BECOMING LICENSED

Medical marijuana has been legal in California since 1996, and storefront pot dispensaries have proliferated. But until October, state law made no provisions for such businesses or placed any regulations on their operations.

Cities across the state, including many in Orange County, have declared war on unlicensed shops in recent years, using police raids and court actions. Other jurisdictions opted to regulate and tax the businesses, as Santa Ana did when voters approved Measure BB on Nov. 4, 2014.

After the measure passed, the City Council approved a plan to allot 20 licenses on a lottery basis  only 10 of which have completed the permitting process. The City Council also pledged $1.5 million annually toward enforcement to gain rapid closure of any collectives/dispensaries operating illegally. Illegal pot shops lead to a proliferation of crime and lower the quality of life for residents, Viramontes said.

The locations of unlicensed shops may not be a mystery  police say they follow crowdsourced locations on the website Weedmaps. But Viramontes said determining whos behind the operation often involves getting search warrants and sometimes conducting lengthy surveillance.

Theres no background checks on the people. Theres no way of knowing whos working inside of these places, Viramontes said.

None of the dispensaries that appear on Weedmaps but not on the citys licensed list agreed to speak with the Register for this story.

Some unlicensed shops have operated under the assumed protection of a limited liability corporation, masking the true identity of the owners, Viramontes said. Others operate different types of legitimate businesses, but sell pot on the side, he said, citing one store, since shut down, that was selling hats out front and marijuana in the back.

Landlords often arent aware pot is being sold from their buildings until they get complaints or see electricity bills skyrocket due to the extra air conditioning units and grow lamps used to cultivate pot.

Thats when the property owners call us and say, Hey, we think they are selling marijuana out of this shop, Viramontes said.

Most of the time, once a dispensary is closed, it remains closed, Viramontes said. But he said there are certain locations that have reopened numerous times.

For years, the city has been trying to shutter the Sky High collective, which opened in 2010 in a storefront on West 17th Street.

Attorney Matthew Pappas said hes fighting for that dispensary and others to be able to stay open under state disability laws, which protect people with physical or mental impairments.

Its my belief that they provide for patients legally because they fall under the same provision as a methadone clinic or any other health care provider, he said. Disability law should protect these patients.

Santa Ana police garnered unwelcome international attention after a May raid caught on video showed officers forcing Sky High customers to the ground and eating merchandise. Three officers involved in the raid were charged this month with petty theft and vandalism.

Attorney Anthony Curiale, who is also representing Sky High, said the city used strong-arm tactics to try to shut down the dispensary. A more responsible approach, he argued, would be to file a lawsuit and go to the court to obtain an injunction.

We think its a violation of the Fourth Amendment and other civil rights because theyre using unreasonable force to enforce a law that typically doesnt involve force, Curiale said.

Attorney Arthur Travieso is representing Live2Love and four other unlicensed pot shops in lawsuits against Santa Ana, claiming the citys lottery process was unfair because it allowed multiple entries by the same individuals, as long they applied and paid a $1,690 fee.

If the city of Santa Ana was really serious about making this about safety and not just about money, then one would think they would have done a little bit more of a thorough check before they even let people into the lottery process, he said.

Travieso added he is not against regulation, but to pigeonhole (the industry) into very limited locations deprives access to medicinal marijuana to patients who have difficulty traveling to licensed shops.

Those high-profile conflicts havent affected enforcement efforts, and the city continues to seek the permanent shutdown of all illegal dispensaries, Viramontes said.

But as long as some remain, Holcombe said, shops like his are handicapped.

AT A DISADVANTAGE

Unregulated shops arent paying the 5 percent tax Santa Ana imposed with Measure BB. That tax may be raised to as much 10 percent, although its not clear if or when that would occur. Holcombe said he believes some unlicensed competitors probably arent paying an 8 percent state sales tax, either, meaning they can cut prices.

Generally, as taxes and regulation on licensed shops get more costly, other sellers of various kinds can get a marketing advantage, said Beau Kilmer, co-director of RAND Drug Policy Research Center. It largely comes down to price, he said.

Travieso said the five unlicensed dispensaries he represents cant pay city taxes because they didnt win the city pot-shop lottery.

My clients would be ecstatic to be paying taxes, he said. They could literally go to City Hall offering to hand them money for taxes, and the city would not take the money.

In addition to not paying city taxes, unlicensed shops dont have to close by 8 p.m. most nights, as Santa Ana requires of approved dispensaries. They also dont face weeks of lag time hiring employees as they wait for police background checks to be completed. Holcombe contends many unapproved shops also grow their own supply, further reducing costs.

420 Central opened Oct. 10 as Santa Anas third legal dispensary. The owners have invested close to $1 million so far, Holcombe said, as they try to use high-quality customer service and products to lure customers whove grown accustomed to getting their supply from nondescript storefronts or delivery services.

It just takes time to get those people in the fringe culture more comfortable with that, Holcombe said.

At OC3, the second licensed shop to open in Santa Ana, owner Chris Francy said he is continuing to absorb the extra costs to operate legally, while he waits for the city to shutter the remaining illegal shops.

This is still an industry in Santa Ana that is dealing with an abundance of enforcement problems, Francy said. But it will take time, and we as a business are understanding of that.

STATE FIX COMING?

Sanctioned dispensary owners generally are optimistic their concerns will be addressed when requirements of Californias new Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, enacted in October, kick in.

The act, which is made up of three bills, establishes a licensing program for marijuana-related businesses and imposes criminal penalties on illegal pot shop operators.

The best remedy will be when it is criminalized at a state level, Francy said. Then well be sitting pretty.

However, the new laws provisions for licensing and taxation dont take effect until Jan. 1, 2018. And Holcombe isnt sure if 420 Central will be able to keep competing with unregulated dispensaries for 21 months.

Thats really the bottom line for us, Holcombe said. Can we make it that long?

As things stand now  with a mishmash of regulation from city to city and state to state  theres no end to the larger battle over effectively regulating marijuana sales on the immediate horizon.

Consumers will continue to cross jurisdictional lines to buy cheaper weed. Growers will continue shipping from states where laws are more lenient to those where the supply chain is more restricted.

Even if Santa Ana shut down all of its unlicensed pot shops, bargain-hunting shoppers could drive 5 miles to Anaheim, where authorities are doing battle with 12 dispensaries they say are operating illegally.

Staff writer Scott Schwebke contributed to this report.

Contact the writer: bstaggs@ocregister.com
Re: Senate should confirm Garland to high court [Opinion, March 24]: When Dean Erwin Chemerinsky argues that the Senate should act quickly to confirm liberal Judge Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court, he knows the odds are against him. Everyone in Washington knows that Judge Garland would change the outcomes in a host of pending cases that would have been decided the other way had Justice Scalia lived. Why should the Republican majority in the Senate approve a nominee they know will give Americans that result?

It would have been easier for President Obama to have his choice ratified if the role of judges had not been radically altered by the progressive jurisprudence adopted in Roe v. Wade. In Roe, the majority struck down state abortion laws based on a right of privacy. Problem is, a right of privacy isnt in the Constitution.

My former boss, Justice Byron White, dissented in Roe because he found nothing in the language or history of the Constitution to support the courts judgment. Politically, Justice White was a moderate liberal, but he followed a commonsense principle that justices should not make up rights. Justice White called the result of the case an exercise of raw power, which for him was an improvident and extravagant exercise of the power of judicial review.

While I believe that abortion should be legal in California, citizens would respect the court more if it had not turned abortion into a Constitutional issue by fabricating a right of privacy.

Following Roe, the court has applied the made-up right of privacy elsewhere. Many worry what rights it might make up next. Dean Chemerinsky does not make the case that Judge Garland believes it impertinent for a judge to make up rights that the founders did not choose to include. To restore the credibility of the court, the Senate has no choice except to wait for better.

Robert Loewen

Laguna Beach

The varsity team

After witnessing the horror in Paris and Brussels by what our president calls a JV team, somebody better make a play before they send in the varsity team.

Jack Bowden

Buena Park
WASHINGTON  When the Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that the Affordable Care Act is constitutional, the decision dealt a major blow to the National Federation of Independent Business, the lead plaintiff in the case challenging President Obamas signature health-care law.

Although it lost, the small-business group considered its role in the landmark case, NFIB v. Sebelius, a milestone for the organization  a sign it could hold sway in the legal community as well as the lobbying world.

So when Justice Antonin Scalia died last month, opening the door to a potential shakeup on the high court, the NFIB was ready.

The group, which lobbies for the interests of small businesses in Washington, is the first notable business association to openly oppose the nomination of Judge Merrick Garland, Obamas choice to replace Scalia. It marks the first time in its 73-year-old history that the NFIB, now under the leadership of new president Juanita Duggan, is weighing in on the Supreme Court nomination process.

Our experience in the Obamacare suit taught us an important lesson, Duggan said. We cant sit on the sidelines. Its time for us to get into this game because were going to be the plaintiff many times before the Supreme Court. Thats where all our policy decisions seem to be made.

The NFIB announced its opposition to Garland in an op-ed last week in the Wall Street Journal. But it had been researching Garland and the other reported finalists for weeks. The research indicates Garland consistently rules in favor of regulatory agencies or unions, Duggan said.

The group will continue opposing Garland on social media and plans to issue a scorecard on his rulings next week.

Were amplifying this message through all our platforms, Duggan said.

The partisan deadlock in Congress in recent years has heightened the importance of how federal agencies oversee a variety of industries. NFIB, like other lobbying powers, now views litigation against regulations it opposes as integral to its ability to represent its members in Washington.

The NFIB is a plaintiff in three cases that it views as particularly important and that may ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court.

One case challenges the Environmental Protection Agencys Waters of the United States rule, which expands the definition of which lakes, rivers and other bodies of water fall under the jurisdiction of the EPA or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Business and agriculture groups oppose the rule, saying it would greatly limit their ability to make minor changes to their land. There are numerous cases challenging the regulation that are pending in courts throughout the country, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit ruled last month that it has jurisdiction to hear them.

Another suit challenges the legality of the EPAs Clean Power Plan rule, which requires power plants to reduce emissions significantly by 2030 and which businesses say would drive up their energy costs. The Supreme Court last month ruled 5 to 4 to temporarily halt the rule as lawsuits challenging it proceed through the appeals court. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is expected to begin hearing arguments in June.

A third suit challenges a National Labor Relations Board rule that businesses worry would speed up union elections. A federal court in Texas upheld the rule last year, but the NFIB appealed the ruling. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit has heard the case but has yet to issue a decision.

With these legal fights potentially landing at the Supreme Court, NFIB is eager to now play a major role in the lobbying battle over Garland and future nominees.

The onus was on us this time, Duggan said. It wouldve been an omission for us if we had not decided to do this.
Starting Monday, grocery service Instacart is expanding to Orange County, allowing residents in a few cities to get doorstep delivery on everything from dairy goods to dog food.

The San Francisco-based company has partnered with eight retailers  Petco, Costco, Whole Foods Market, Gelsons Market, Stater Bros., Ralphs, Smart & Final and H Mart. In the case of Costco, membership is not required for orders.

Instacarts expansion to Orange County comes as the food delivery sector heats up. Market research firm IBISWorld estimates the online grocery market is a $13 billion industry. Other on-demand food providers include Google Express, Amazon Prime Fresh, Postmates, DoorDash and GrubHub. Munchery, a chef-driven meal delivery service, launched this month in Orange County.

Instacart is in 19 U.S. markets, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, New York, Atlanta and Denver.

In Orange County, the delivery area is limited to Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and most of Irvine.

Gelsons, which works with Instacart in Los Angeles, said it is enthusiastic about expanding delivery in Orange County. Orders can be made through desktop computers or mobile devices.

We are seeing tremendous growth in our delivery business with Instacart in L.A. and look forward to offering the same convenience to many of our Orange County customers, said company spokeswoman Yvonne Manganaro.

Founded in 2012, Instacart uses personal shoppers to deliver goods for a $5.99 fee, up $2 from 2015. Instacart Express members, who pay $149 a year, get free deliveries on orders valued at $35 or more.

Food delivery services have gone through some growing pains. Instacart said its most profitable cities are Atlanta and Chicago, earning $6.96 and $4.29 per order in those markets, respectively. However, the company said New York and the Bay Area (excluding San Francisco, where it makes money) continue to be tough markets.

Palo Alto-based DoorDash has run into problems with its restaurant meal delivery service. Last year, Irvine-based In-N-Out Burger sued DoorDash for unauthorized delivery of its burgers.

In-N-Out said the company is using an imitation In-N-Out logo on its app that confuses consumers into thinking In-N-Out has authorized the company to deliver its food. The two companies reached a confidential settlement; DoorDash is no longer delivering food from In-N-Out, a DoorDash spokesman said.

On-demand services, which include ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft, also have been hit by various lawsuits over worker classification. Many independent contract drivers say they should be considered company employees.

Contact the writer: nluna@ocregister.com
A UC Irvine research team has won an $8 million grant to help develop a vaccine for the military that could protect troops in germ warfare, the university announced Monday.

The U.S. Department of Defenses Defense Threat Reduction Agency awarded the grant to Philip Felgner, adjunct professor of medicine, and Aaron Esser-Kahn, assistant professor of chemistry. The duo is creating a new way to immunize against Q fever, a disease caused by a type of bacteria called Coxiella burnetii that lives in the placentas of cattle, sheep and goats.

People get sick when they breathe in the bacteria. It can be shed by livestock when the animals give birth, which is how some military personnel get infected abroad.

But theres also fear the germ would be turned into an aerosol spray intended to cripple people. The U.S. government has tested it to do just that.

In the 1950s, the Army tested it and other diseases on conscientious objectors, mainly Seventh-Day Adventist draftees, as part of its now defunct biological warfare program, according to Medical Countermeasures, part of the Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense.

It was the first, or one of the first, biological agents that was weapon-ized. That puts it up pretty high on the priority list for the military, said Felgner.

An effective vaccine to protect against Q fever  which can inflict fevers up to 105 degrees, vomiting, severe headache, chills and sweats  already exists, but theres about a 50 percent chance it causes an allergic reaction, mainly fever and severe pain, Felgner said, so its use is limited.

Felgner and Esser-Kahn are working to develop a vaccine using only a few of the proteins that comprise Coxiella burnetii instead of the entire organism. They suspect that will be less likely to induce a reaction.

Their work to develop technology to pinpoint the proteins and boost their effectiveness began more than a decade ago at Pacific Southwest Regional Center of Excellence, a hub at UCI for biodefense research funded by the federal government in the wake of 9/11.

Theres a lot of modern immunology knowledge that were taking advantage of now that wasnt available to researchers even a few years ago, Felgner said.

In about one year, Felgner said he will work with the Armys Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases at Fort Detrick in Maryland, where the conscientious objectors were once tested, on next-stage animal studies of a candidate vaccine.

They still retain animal facilities there to do research with these really dangerous organisms, he said. Theyre called Safety Level 3 Facilities, theres very few of them around the country. But at USAMRIID (U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases), they have 900 people working in these high-containment facilities, because they want to be prepared in case these threats become real threats for us.
Italy rescued 730 people off the coast of Sicily Sunday, while a German newspaper reported that because of restrictions along the so-called Balkan route, human traffickers were planning to redirect more migrants to Italian shores.

The Italian coast guard and navy carried out six rescue operations involving rubber dinghies. The rescued migrants were due to arrive at the Sicilian port of Pozzallo Monday, a coast guard statement said.

In Germany, the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper said traffickers were looking for new migrant smuggling routes in response to a European Union deal with Turkey, which restrict passages through the Balkans  until recently the main corridor for migrants trying to reach richer European countries farther north.

The newspaper said traffickers were planning to use Italy-bound fishing ships and small cargo vessels beginning in the first week of April, using Turkeys beachside resort of Antalya, the city of Mersin near the Syrian border and the Greek capital Athens as departure points.

After paying a fee of $3,400 to $5,600, migrants will be instructed to stay below deck until the ship reaches international waters, according to smugglers who provided their mobile phone numbers on Facebook.

The new route is more expensive than the journey from Turkey to the Greek islands, but under the new migration deal between Brussels and Ankara, migrants who illegally arrive in Greece can expect to be returned to Turkey unless they can prove that they face persecution there.

Italy was the preferred entry route for Europe-bound sea migrants until last year, when arrivals to Greece rose significantly.

According to the International Organization for Migration, of nearly 163,000 migrants who crossed the Mediterranean in 2016, more than 149,000 landed in Greece and less than 14,000 arrived in Italy.
A common complaint about the 2016 GOP presidential primary campaign is that the contest has been short on substance and heavy on insults and invective. These criticisms hit a fever pitch after front-runner Donald Trump and Marco Rubio engaged in a multiday exchange over the size, or lack thereof, of The Donalds manhood.

While its true that the campaign has taken many low turns, we shouldnt lose sight of the fact that there is also a serious, substantive debate taking place on the direction of the Republican Party.

Think about this for a second: The man leading in the delegate count has come to dominate the race while challenging the GOPs longstanding positions on the war in Iraq, comprehensive immigration reform, free trade and the legacy of George W. Bush.

And its not like Trump has been circumspect about his beliefs while using his rapier wit to swoon voters at the debates. He has taken all these issues, and the other Republican candidates, head on, and, by all of the available metrics, he is winning the nation over.

This is not an insignificant development. If Trump is able to snag the nomination at the convention in Cleveland, the GOP standard bearer will be an anti-war, border hawk whos not a fan of recently negotiated trade deals.

The Republican Party will have dramatically changed.

Lets compare this dynamic national debate with recent elections in the one-party state of California, which have little or nothing to do with policy disputes.

In the Golden State, the Democratic majority is pretty much entirely on the same page ideologically, with the exception of a few moderate-to-conservative Democrats from the Central Valley who break ranks on environmental and regulatory legislation.

Because of this ideological lockstep, California disputes generally revolve around personality and the distribution of political spoils.

Take, for example, the contest to determine who will replace retiring U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer. Instead of making a case based on ideology, Rep. Loretta Sanchez believes she should win the seat because I think we need a Latina in the U.S. Senate.

Speaking at a candidate forum hosted by the Latino Journal, Sanchez went on to say that her opponent, state Attorney General Kamala Harris, I believe, does not have the experience that I have.  I dont think she grew up in a seven-kid family where we stood in line to get the Velveeta cheese block, with parents who were not educated, but who sacrificed and put their kids through.

Needless to say, shes not exactly getting into the weeds on policy with that plea.

In San Diego, former Assembly speaker Toni Atkins and state Sen. Marty Block are in a heated battle for the 39th Senate District, despite the fact that they have nearly identical voting records in the Legislature.

Atkins contends that, years ago, Block promised her that he would serve one term in the Senate. She was backed up by former speaker John Perez, a Los Angeles Democrat, and Jess Durfee, a former San Diego County Democratic Party chairman.

Block says all three misheard him.

Now theyre looking at brutal slug fest that will likely be both ugly and expensive.

And then you have the war being waged between Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and Senate President pro Tem Kevin De Leon over who can rightfully take credit for a 2016 ballot initiative that would require background checks for ammunition buyers.

Both men plan to run statewide in 2018 and figure theres only enough room on the ballot for one true gun-control warrior, so the bickering has already begun.

The bottom line is this: If you want to see a debate about policy, ignore the complaints about the low tone of the primary, pack your bag, cross the Sierra Nevadas, and take a gander at the epic battle going on for the soul of the Republican Party. Whats happening in California is just a sideshow in comparison.

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.
If a Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Researchs estimate is accurate, public pension debt in California is even worse than feared. Preliminary calculations from a forthcoming SIEPR study peg the unfunded retirement tab for state and local government employees at more than $1.2 trillion, according to Insolvent Film, a website based on a documentary on government financial stability.

The $1.2 trillion-plus deficit includes approximately $950 billion in unfunded pension liabilities and about $300 billion in other post-employment benefits (primarily retiree health care). The total translates to roughly $30,650 for every man, woman and child in the state  about $123,000 for a family of four.

The figures are substantially higher than official government estimates. The unfunded liability for the California Public Employees Retirement System, for example, would be greater than $300 billion using this method  more than three times the official figure.

The difference, as Stanford public policy professor Joe Nation explained to Insolvent Film, is that public pension systems base their financial estimates on unrealistic assumptions about investment rates of return. CalPERS expects to earn 7.5 percent a year, for example.

Nation says there is not an economist in the country that believes this is a realistic rate of return, and that a more realistic rate would be closer to 5 percent, Insolvent Film reported. That is more like the discount rate private defined-benefit pension plans utilize, which is often based on high-quality corporate bond rates.

Of course, we could eliminate the entire debate about discount rates, life expectancy tables and all other actuarial assumptions by simply switching new government workers to 401(k)-style defined-contribution retirement plans, as San Diego and Utah Jose have attempted. In addition to greater budget certainty, this would put employees in charge of their own retirement funds (while also eliminating the problem of CalPERS politically driven investments), thus shifting the risk burden away from taxpayers.

As pension liabilities continue to mount, they consume a larger and larger share of state and local budgets, crowding out other priorities. California made some positive pension reforms in 2012, but, unfortunately, they will not be nearly enough to hold back the coming tsunami of unfunded liabilities. It will take bold reforms to bring government worker pay, and especially benefits, back into line with the majority of the population in the private sector and make them affordable and sustainable again.
WASHINGTON  The brothers who carried out suicide bombings in Brussels last week had long, violent criminal records and had been regarded internationally as potential terrorists. But in San Bernardino last year, one of the attackers was a county health inspector who lived a life of apparent suburban normality.

And then there are the dozens of other young American men and women who have been arrested over the past year for trying to help the Islamic State. Their backgrounds are so diverse that they defy a single profile.

What turns people toward violence  and whether they can be steered away from it  are questions that have bedeviled governments around the world for generations. Those questions have taken on fresh urgency with the rise of the Islamic State and the string of attacks in Europe and the United States. Despite millions of dollars of government-sponsored research, and a much-publicized White House pledge to find answers, there is still nothing close to a consensus on why someone becomes a terrorist.

After all this funding and this flurry of publications, with each new terrorist incident we realize that we are no closer to answering our original question about what leads people to turn to political violence, Marc Sageman, a psychologist and a longtime government consultant, wrote in the journal Terrorism and Political Violence in 2014. The same worn-out questions are raised over and over again, and we still have no compelling answers.

When researchers do come up with possible answers, the government often disregards them. Not long after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, for instance, Alan B. Krueger, the Princeton economist, tested the widespread assumption that poverty was a key factor in the making of a terrorist. Kruegers analysis of economic figures, polls, and data on suicide bombers and hate groups found no link between economic distress and terrorism.

More than a decade later, law enforcement officials and government-funded community groups still regard money problems as an indicator of radicalization.

When President Barack Obama announced plans in 2011 to prevent homegrown terrorism, the details were sketchy, but the promise was clear. The White House would provide warning signs to help parents and community leaders.

Its going to be communities that recognize abnormal behavior, Denis McDonough, the deputy national security adviser at the time, said. As an example, he cited truancy, which he said was an indicator of possible gang activity. Truancy is also going to be an early warning sign for violent extremism, he said.

But the years that followed have done little to narrow the list of likely precursors. Rather, the murky science seems to imply that nearly anyone is a potential terrorist. Some studies suggest that terrorists are likely to be educated or extroverted; others say uneducated recluses are at risk. Many studies seem to warn of the adolescent condition, singling out young, impatient men with a sense of adventure who are struggling to achieve a sense of selfhood.

Such generalizations are why civil libertarians see only danger in government efforts to identify people at risk of committing crimes. Researchers, too, say they have been frustrated by both the Bush and Obama administrations because of what they say is a preoccupation with research that can be distilled into simple checklists, even at the risk of casting unnecessary suspicion on innocent people.

They want to be able to do things right now, said Clark R. McCauley Jr., a professor of psychology at Bryn Mawr College who has conducted government-funded terrorism research for years. Anybody who offers them something right now, like to go around with a checklist  right now  is going to have their attention.

Its demand driven, he continued. The people with guns and badges are so eager to have something. The fact that they could actually do harm? This doesnt deter them.

Europe, too, is grappling with these questions, but there is no clear answer. Hans Bonte, mayor of the Belgian town of Vilvoorde, attended a White House summit meeting on radicalization last year and described efforts to stem a steady tide of angry young men leaving to join the Islamic State. In Britain, the government encourages or requires people to alert the authorities about people who could become risks. That has spurred debate abroad, and has raised questions in the United States about whether the Constitution would allow the government to keep tabs on lawful political or religious speech.

I understand, from an American standpoint, that can be troubling, said Lorenzo Vidino, director of the Program on Extremism at the Center for Cyber and Homeland Security at George Washington University. But the European model, for most countries, is to intervene early, as soon as you see the first sign of extremism.

Researching terrorism is admittedly difficult. It involves tough questions about who qualifies as a terrorist, or as a rebel or a soldier. Nelson Mandela? Palestinian suicide bombers? The Taliban of today? The Afghan mujahedeen when the CIA supported them?

Researchers seldom have access to terrorists, and scientific methods, such as control groups, are rare. In 2005, Jeff Victoroff, a University of Southern California psychologist, concluded that the leading terrorism research was mostly just political theory and anecdotes. A lack of systematic scholarly investigation has left policymakers to design counterterrorism strategies without the benefit of facts, he wrote in The Journal of Conflict Resolution.

When the government does give advice about what to look for, the origin of that information is often impossible to know. A 2012 National Counterterrorism Center report, for instance, declared that anxiety, unmet personal needs, frustration and trauma helped drive radicalization. Not all individuals who become radicalized have unmet personal needs, but those who do are more vulnerable to radicalization, the document said, citing no sources.

In Montgomery County, Maryland, a Washington suburb, a Muslim-led interfaith organization called Worde thinks it may have a solution. Organizers have provided families and faith leaders with lists of warning signs: depression, trauma, economic stress and political grievances. Anyone who spots these indicator signs can call Worde, which will arrange mental health or religious counseling.

Police officers become involved only when there is a threat of imminent danger, said Hedieh Mirahmadi, the groups president. Ideally, she said, people get help without being stigmatized or placed on government watch lists.

The program is unproven; a nearly complete study on its effectiveness gives it high marks for building community relationships but does not assess whether the group reduces violent extremism. And while Mirahmadi said nobody would disagree with her warning signs, researchers are far less certain that they are indicators of potential radicalization. Still, the Obama administration believes Worde could be a model and has awarded it $500,000 in grants.

Faiza Patel, a lawyer with the Brennan Center for Justice, remains skeptical. Worde has not released its intervention protocols or its method for assessing things like political grievances. Mirahmadi said such tools would be too easily misunderstood.

But, she said, it is a start. She said her group had counseled about 20 people, providing help that otherwise did not exist. Whether any of these people would have become violent, she said, is impossible to know.
A male teen was arrested Monday afternoon on suspicion of posting a threat Sunday through a mobile phone application that there would be a shooting at El Modena High School in Orange.

Extra police patrolled the school Monday morning after the message was reported, though police said no credible threat was found.

About 9:30 p.m. Sunday, someone reported to authorities that a threat had posted through the mobile phone application Ogle, said Sgt. Phil McMullin of the Orange Police Department.

Ogle, which allows users to anonymously post comments, photos, videos and chat, is aimed at connecting school campuses.

Classes were in session uninterrupted Monday but with more officers and security. Officers were questioning some students during school, McMullins said.

McMullin declined to say if the teenage suspect, an Orange resident, was a student at the school.

He was taken into custody on suspicion of making criminal threats and booked into Orange County Juvenile Hall.

This incident comes after Anaheim police arrested three people Sunday on suspicion of making threats using the same phone application. Three young men  two of which were found to be in possession of loaded guns  were arrested after reported threats to Loara High School, Anaheim police said Sunday.

Anaheim police Sgt. Daron Wyatt said its hard to tell if the threat was a credible one. He said the guns that were found were probably related to the mens gang ties, but police are still taking the threat seriously.

On Friday afternoon, Anaheim police also arrested a 15-year-old Loara 10th-grader after he allegedly made threats to the school. No weapons were found, and there was no indication that he intended to follow through with the threat, but he was booked into Orange County Juvenile Hall.

Police said that they do not believe the Orange and Anaheim incidents are related.

We cant find any relation between the two, McMullin said. We dont know if this is a hoax  but the Orange Police Department is taking it seriously.

Some parents of students at El Modena High said they were concerned about the threats. Tracey Marcyan has a son who is a sophomore and heard about the threat on social media. The school sent out a message alert to parents on Monday morning about the situation.

They are investigating the threats origin in cooperation with the makers of the Ogle app, said a statement from Michael Christensen, superintendent of schools for the Orange Unified School District.

I think the threat is just some kid thinking they are anonymous and trying to create chaos, Marcyan said.

She didnt keep her son home but said other parents did. He said his first period had 20 kids (out of a normal 38) and second period only had 6 kids!

Mitzi Thomas also has a son whos a sophomore at El Modena, but she kept him home Monday.

Id rather keep him here than find out later on the news that school is on lockdown or something.

Wyatt advises parents to monitor their childrens social media and phone activity. He said threats, even if not credible, are not taken lightly.

Parents were in agreement that students who make these threats should be held accountable for causing chaos even if the threat isnt real.

Whether its a hoax or serious, its the same crime and we will prosecute.

Staff writer Louis Casiano Jr. contributed to this report.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7865 or afausto@ocregister.com
SANTA ANA  A 41-year-old man was shot dead on the Santa Ana riverbed trail just east of Edna Park Sunday night in the latest of a rash of shootings in the city since the beginning of the year, police said.

The man was identified Monday by Santa Ana police as Angel Quintero of Garden Grove.

A witness called Santa Ana police about 9:36 p.m. reporting shots fired on the 2100 block of Edna Drive, and responding officers found a man with gunshot wounds in his upper torso. Orange County Fire Authority paramedics pronounced him deceased at the scene, Cmdr. Matt Sorenson said.

The initial investigation showed that the victim was on the bike trail of the riverbed when he came in contact with two males and got into a fight, according to police. At least one of the two males then shot him.

At this point its unknown if it is gang-related, Sorenson said.

The only description of the suspects was that they were seen fleeing the area on foot.

The homicide comes after two Santa Ana men were killed in separate gang attacks in the city Thursday night.

Santa Ana experienced a five-year high in shootings in the first two months of this year, many of them gang-related.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Santa Ana Police Departments homicide detectives at 714-245-8390 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

Contact the writer: 714-796-7762, jkwong@ocregister.com
Volunteerism has been a natural part of 13-year-old Alyssa Simmons life.

Since she was 5 shes served as a spokesperson for children like herself who have sickle cell anemia, helping a nonprofit organization that her mother founded.

Now, the eighth-grader at Los Alisos Intermediate School is heading to the nations capital to spread the word about her cause.

The Mission Viejo resident is one of two California recipients of the 21st annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring teenagers for their volunteerism. Shell receive a free trip to Washington, D.C., for a series of recognition events from April 30 to May 3.

Shell also receive a Presidents Volunteer Service Award from President Barack Obama based on the number of volunteer hours she logged: 1,201 hours in 2015.

I was happy for getting an award for doing something so normal for me, Simmons said.

Simmons was born with sickle cell anemia, a genetic mutation in red blood cells.

Most of the estimated 100,000 Americans with sickle cell anemia are of African ancestry or identify themselves as black, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

Simmons mother, Star, started the Sickle Cell Foundation of Orange County after the disease was diagnosed in Alyssa and Alyssas older brother, Charon. The organization aims to increase public awareness of sickle cell anemia in a county with a small black population.

As a young child, Simmons realized how fortunate she is to have an advocate like her mother. She wanted to give the same opportunity to other young patients, she said.

In Washington, Simmons said shell ask Congress members to enact policies to help change the way people view sickle cell anemia. Sometimes, even doctors and nurses dont have enough knowledge about the disease, she said.

Sickle cell made me realize I can accomplish a lot more and help other people, she said.

Contact the writer: 949-445-6397 or tshimura@ocregister.com
It wouldnt be the first time Donald Trump won a presidential nomination in California.

With the possibility of the state deciding on June 7 whether Trump gets enough delegates to secure the top GOP spot, a curious piece of history is getting dusted off.

The billionaire reality TV star won the Reform Party nomination in California and Michigan in 2000.

Trump had an exploratory campaign committee for several months that election cycle before deciding not to run. But that was enough to land him on the ballot in at least two states.

California had its primary on March 7 that year. California Secretary of State Bill Jones had already finalized the ballot before Trump chose not to run.

That process includes listing generally recognized candidates, a somewhat subjective determination in which the states top elections official tends to err on the side of too many candidates rather than too few.

After all, how would you like to deal with an angry, litigious Trump claiming he was improperly left off the ballot?

Trump got 15,311 votes  thats 44 percent of the states votes that were cast for the six Reform Party candidates. George Weber, a former Democrat from Missouri, was second with 27 percent of the vote.

Pat Buchanan, who was not on the California primary ballot, ended up the Reform Party nominee. He received 0.4 percent of ballots cast nationwide in November.

A tip of the hat to Paul Mitchell, who recently pointed out Trumps 2000 success in his CapitolWeekly.net column, and to Jim Drummond, a contributor to the Registers Yorba Linda Star, who mentioned it in a Feb. 19 column.

Trumps parties

The Reform Party was formed in 1995 by Texas businessman Ross Perot, who ran as an independent in 1992 and as the Reform Party candidate in 1996. The party has been dwindling since and was dropped as an officially recognized entity in California in 2002.

Trumps stint with the party ended soon after he decided not to run for president. He cited the partys infighting and David Dukes affiliation with the party.

You may recall that Duke, a former KKK grand wizard, recently praised Trump, and Trump made news by not immediately renouncing that support.

I dont know anything about David Duke, OK? he told CNN, but he later disavowed the support and said his much-criticized response during the CNN interview was the result of a faulty earpiece and his inability to hear the question.

The Reform Party was just one stop on Trumps voter-registration carousel. He registered as a Republican in 1987, switched to Reform in 1999, to Democrat in 2001, back to Republican in 2009, re-registered as an independent in 2011 and then rejoined the Republicans in 2012, according to Politifact.com.

Changs spenDing

The race to fill termed-out state Sen. Bob Huffs tri-county seat could get costly. Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang, R-Diamond Bar, has foregone the optional agreement to limit campaign spending to $846,000 in the primary. That also means she doesnt get to have a 250-word candidates statement in the elections guide mailed to voters.

Chang campaign consultant Jim Nygren said Chang does not intend to spend more than $846,000 in the primary, but opted out of the agreement to keep open the possibility of spending more than the designated $1.27 million limit in the general election.

The other two candidates, Democrats Sukhee Kang and Josh Newman, have agreed to stick to the limits. So has every other state legislative candidate running in Orange County.

Contact the writer: mwisckol@ocregister.com
Its still weird that the last states to vote this primary season wont do so until June 7  more than two months from now. Why this whole thing needs to drag out so long is a mystery, although it derives in part from the fact that in most cycles, things are pretty much wrapped up by now. But this year, were going to have to slog through a lot of weeks of small states voting and candidates tweeting at one another before we get to the state that could very well decide both nomination contests: California.

Two months is also too long to put a ton of weight on polling, but we can at least get a sense of the field of play. A new survey from the Los Angeles Times and USC, for example, suggests how June 7 could shape the presidential contest: Confirming Donald Trumps delegate majority and securing Hillary Clintons lead  while preparing to shut the door in November by handing its electoral votes to Hillary Clinton by a wide margin as the last big state to report in on election night.

There are only two demographics we really need to look at in each race. On the Democratic side, the question is how the non-white vote (in this majority non-white state) will go. And on the Republican side, its where each candidate leads. After all, while the Democratic contest awards its delegates proportionally, the Republicans give three delegates to the winner of each of the states 53 congressional districts.

Unfortunately, the Times/USC poll didnt have large enough samples of poll respondents for most regions and demographic groups. But on the Democratic side, the trend in California is similar to what weve seen elsewhere. White voters are friendlier to Bernie Sanders than non-whites  though in California, Clinton continues to lead with whites, too. Thats key to her statewide lead of 8 points.

The pollsters included a large sample of Latinos, too, so we can rely on those numbers. (And remember that point; well come back to it.)

On the Republican side, Trump leads statewide and also in the regions of the state where there were enough Republicans to be significant  Southern California and the states big cities, in aggregate. Those cities are where most of the congressional districts are, too, so a Trump lead there is significant  even though that lead will vary by area of town, and so on.

But it is a picture of a state where Trump can easily rack up a lot of delegates. And if the Republican contest continues to trudge forward as it is, that may be the thing he needs to finally, just under the wire, hit the 1,237-delegate mark he needs to clinch the nomination.

Thats where the good news ends for Trump.

Of course, California was always going to go Democratic, right? This poll suggests, though, that Trumps not-entirely-founded optimism about playing in typically blue states will clearly not happen in California.

At this point, he trails Clinton in a head-to-head match-up by 32 points, with a healthy number of people not having made up their minds. But its still a hard majority, and a near-majority of whites. Remember how the pollsters included a lot of Latino respondents? Those Latinos prefer Clinton by more than 6-to-1.

Asked about how enthusiastic theyd be about supporting each potential nominee, the difference was again clear. Most people would be more enthusiastic about voting for Clinton than Trump. But notice the refuse to support numbers. Fully 27 percent of Californians would refuse to vote for Trump. And 42 percent of Latinos would refuse to vote for him  seven times the number who say the same about Clinton.

Were not going to extrapolate from that strong response to the rest of the country. But its significant. Trumps positions and comments have earned him a lot of negative feeling from Californias Latinos. California may give him the nomination, but that antipathy likely means that he probably has even less of a chance at winning the state than, say Ted Cruz.

But if two months is a long time from now, seven months is an eternity. Well wait for more polling.
A company in China is helping its employees de-stress by allowing them to bring their pets to work every single day. The internet marketing company in Shanghai has been practicing Bring Your Pet to Work Day for a while now, and the results have been very encouraging  the staff are considerably happier and even work better as a team.

The idea of a perpetual Bring Your Pet to Work day belongs to the head of the company himself.. Worried that the highly competitive and demanding workplace was affecting his staff, Zhao Congchong wanted to do something to help them stay relaxed at work. Upon studying their profiles, he realized that most of the employees were pet owners, so he announced that everyone was welcome to bring their pets to work on a pre-decided day.

The initiative was a huge success  not only did the employees appear more relaxed, the pets also helped them bond better with each other. Realizing the potential of Bring Your Pet to Work Day, Zhao seriously considered making the event a permanent fixture at the office. As a pet lover myself, I know what a difference it can make to have it around, Zhao said. But I also know it can have a negative impact on productivity, so I did not make this decision lightly.

Eventually, Zhao decided to take his staffs opinion in the matter. He organised an all-hands meeting to discuss the issue and, based on their responses, decided that the idea could definitely be implemented. So he set up an unofficial policy, allowing employees to bring their dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and other pets to work every day. The employees are visibly more relaxed, because they get to spend more time with their furry friends without having to worry about leaving them alone for several hours.

Right now the animals just roam freely amongst our staff  they really do make our work less stressful, Zhao said. But I plan on allocating an office as a specialized pet area in the future, so they can play and rest on their own. Chinese media reports that following the success of Congchongs idea, other start-up companies are considering adopting a similar office policy.

But this Chinese marketing company isnt the first to harness the relaxing power of adorable pets. Ferray Corporation, an internet-business in Tokyo Japan, has been encouraging its employees to bring their cats to work with them on a daily basis and the results have paid off  employees are reporting considerably lowered stress levels. The adorable felines have become so important to Ferray that the most important quality that they look for in job candidates is a love of cats!

Photos: CEN

via Kate Solomon/Tumblr
Protecting the borders of the largest country in the world is no easy task, but luckily Russian troops can rely on the help of Volkosobs  highly-trained wolf-dog hybrids created specifically for this purpose. Volkosobs inherit the size and strength of wolves, but retain an obedient and friendly attitude toward humans that they do not perceive as threats.

Getting the best of both species seems like a worthy pursuit, but getting the desired result took years of research and failed attempts. Over 200 wolf-hybrids bred at the University of Cologne, in Germany, were deemed failures as they all exhibited the typical wolf characteristics of extreme fearful-caution around humans. But scientists and animal experts at Russias Prem Institute of Internal Troops finally made a breakthrough in the year 2000. They key to their success was Naida, an usually sociable Caspian Sea Wolf who got along great with humans. Interestingly, during the breeding stage, Naida actually chose a dog as her mate, despite originally being presented with the option of a male wolf.

In 10 years, Naida birthed 40 volkosobs (Russian for wolf-dogs) that shared both her wolf instincts and the fathers friendliness and obedience to humans and they have since then been used to propagate the species. A highly-trained volkosobs is valued $2,000 and $3,000, but in order to benefit from the use of these amazing creatures exclusively, the Russian Military does not sell wolf-dogs. Instead, it only leases them to domestic security organizations, under very strict conditions.

Photo via: izzhizni.ru

The first volkosobs were trained to perform a variety of tasks like tracking explosives, detecting contraband and tracking, all of which they seemed to perform with ease. Their most impressive trait, according to Russian dog trainers is that they love to work. When they enter the training hall their teeth chatter as they are impatient to do exercises, animal trainer Olga Galperina says.

Photo: thezoo.ru

But what makes the volkosobs hybrids so valuable to the Russian Military is their ability to outperform any dog species. For example, while German Shepherds would take about four minutes to sniff out a hiding criminal, the wolf-dogs were able to do it in just 15 to 20 seconds. The dogs tended to be skittish and haphazardly ran around the training grounds before getting down to work, while the volkosobs cut right to the chase, doing exactly what was expected of them. According to Russian animal trainers, even in an unknown environment, all they need is a single circle of the area to establish relevant locations before initiating a speedy no-nonsense track-down of the hidden drugs, criminals or explosives.

Photo: Samru.ru

If currently available information on the volkosobs is to be believed, these hybrids are superior to dogs in every aspect that counts  they have a heightened sense of smell (six times sharper than a dog), their grip is unusually strong, allowing them to bite through protective layers of plastic and felt, and they can withstand extreme temperatures. They also display great stamina and mental stability. They can track their prey continuously for up to two days without tiring.

Photo: kinodog.ru

In combat situations, whereas a dog will bite an aggressors arm and maintain its bite, a volkosob will also go for the arm initially, but will eventually focus its attention on a more vulnerable area, like the groin or neck. During a gunfight, the volkosob will not react to gunfire, but instead focus on its task.

Volkosobs have long been referred to as the secret weapon of Russian border patrols and law enforcement, but as they continue to prove themselves in the field, they are gaining notoriety, especially among criminals and drug dealers hoping to make it into the country undetected through the Chinese and Mongolian borders. According to Survincity, having to deal with the volkosobs is their worst nightmare.
Justin Trudeau

The Canadian government is blind to the decades-old corruption that is ongoing within the Minister of Healths radiation protection bureau, he said. Tragically, for all persons living in Canada, our provincial governments have shown themselves to be willfully silent to those of us who have made many attempts to alert them over the years.

Flynn also called on the Obama Administration to change its policy of ignoring the Wi-Fi threat.

These are unprecedented, unbelievable times in Americas history, he said. One can only presume that President Obama himself, and his entire administration, are deliberately being kept ignorant of the systemic corruption that is ongoing within the U.S. regulatory family of agencies, most notably the Federal Communications Commission and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and its International Committee on Electromagnetic Safety.

Enabling this corruption, the remaining few media conglomerates choose to remain largely silent. If Americans are to survive this unprecedented Crime Against Humanity, they must wake up and act  before it is too late!

Flynn Rapped Wireless Utility Meters

Flynn spoke about the dangers of wireless utility smart meters at a National Day of Action Oct. 4, 2012.

Also rapped on the knuckles is the sinfully silent news media in both Canada and the U.S. Exposes of the hazards of radiation are all over the TV news at least in Europe and Australia, he said. ABC-TV Australia broadcast Wi-Fried on Feb. 16, 2016, detailing health hazards of Wi-Fi, cellphones, etc.

Flynn notes that a handful of companies control much of the media in the U.S. and that five tech companies are planning to envelope the earth in Wi-Fi:

 Google plans 200,000 Wi-Fi balloons at 62,500 feet.

 Space X plans 4,000 satellites 750 miles high.

 OneWeb will hoist 648 satellites 500-590 miles high.

 Facebook plans satellites, drones and lasers.

 Outernet plans low orbit microsatellites.

Globe in Wi-Fry Frying Pan

Virtually the entire global population will be irradiated 24/7/365 by 2020 whether they like it or not by pulsed, non-thermal microwave on the same frequency as microwave ovens-2.4 Gigahertz, said Flynn.

The Federal Communications Commission on March 17 gave Google approval to float the balloons in all 50 states. Flynn notes that FCC chairman Tom Wheeler chaired the CTIA-Wireless Assn. from 1992-2004 and is the only person ever named to the Cable TV and Wireless Halls of Fame.

The passage of the Telecommunications Act in 1996 made it illegal for any community to consider health or the environment in regulating cell towers, said Flynn.

In 1995, he noted, just as the Environmental and Protection Agency was about to introduce national exposure limits that would protect the public from non-thermal electromagnetic radiation, the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations cut the EPAs budget saying it should not be engaged in electromagnetic activities.

The responsibility was then transferred to the FCC whose independence is open to question, said Flynn who calls the FCC corrupt and lacking in EMF scientists.

Norm Alster has authored Captured Agency: How the FCC Is Dominated by the Industries it Presumes to Regulate.

Life on Earth ThreatenedFlynn

It is preposterous but tragically true, said Flynn, that scientists and informed people around the world fear that todays ongoing pandemic corruption, suppression of the truth, deception and lies, aided by the sinfully silent news mediaunless it can somehow be stoppedwill bring about the demise of mankind and all life on earth as we know it.

Wi-Fil health advocates are looking for public figures that can take up their cause. An ally may be John Travolta, who insists that hotels he stays in cover the windows of his room with aluminum foil and dark curtains. The wording was found in a rider in Travoltas contract with hotels by the U.K.s Daily Mail and reported March 27.

Goop, the website of actress Gwyneth Paltrow, explored whether Cellphones and Wi-Fi Signals Are Toxic.

Dr. David Carpenter, one of three panelists, said, The strong evidence is that cellphone use results in brain cancer. Devra Davis and Ann Louise Gittleman said they were convinced that the ubiquitous radiation poses dangers, especially to children.

Flynn Notes Threat to Children



Flynn published a statement March 25 titled, Imprisoning Children and Teachers in Microwaved Classrooms Is a Crime Beyond Belief.

He said that Time is running out for Americans to wake up and realize that their children are being unintentionally but seriously harmed by technologically-ignorant, irresponsible authorities who, sadly, have allowed themselves to be co-opted by the wireless and telecom industry and electric utilities whose sole concern is profit  even at the expense of an unsuspecting and defenseless publics health and well-being!

Said Flynn:

Renowned scientists such as Dr. Neil Cherry, Dr. Sam Milham, Dr. Robert O. Becker and others have long said that anyman-made radio frequency radiation, no matter how weak the signal, is hazardous to humans and all forms of life - especially pulsed M/W radiation!

Microwave ovens cook food and heat liquids on the M/W frequency of 2.4 GHz While M/W ovens emit very high powered radiation, they do so for relatively short periods of time before they shut OFF. Note: The form of radiation emitted by M/W ovens is continuous wave, which is less harmful to humans and all living things than is a Wi-Fi routers pulsed radiation.

Inconceivably, precious children and their teachers are forced  every moment they are at school - to sit in classrooms with powerful industrial-grade Wi-Fi routers above their heads that emit the more dangerous pulsed form of M/W radiation on frequencieswhich the US Military knows are lethal to all human organs and organ systems: 2.4 GHz or both 2.4 and 5.8 GHz! W-Fi routers emit their pulsed non-thermal radiation in all directions constantly, 24/7/365, blanketing entire areas ranging in distance from just hundreds of feet out to encompass a schools entire property!



Wi-Fi Health Effects Cumulative

Non-industry scientists know that the harmful biological and health effects of low-level pulsed radiation are cumulative. It is not a question of IF a student or teacher will be harmed, but how much accumulated radiation over how many months and/or years can their individual bodies endure before they succumb to serious illness?

Since its inception in 1948, the World Health Organization has experienced almost constant turmoil and challenges. No longer enjoying secure funding from governments, it now relies on voluntary contributions from governments and other sources. Currently, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation [Bill is the founder of Microsoft] is one of the biggest contributors to WHO! Radiation regulatory agencies, electric power utilities, and the wireless/telecom industries have meticulously studied, learned from and improved upon the extremely successful, deceitful tactics employed by the tobacco industry for so many profitable decades.

Flynn spent two years at one of Canadas largest and most sensitive radio intelligence-gathering stations, where he supervised some 200+ specially-trained radio operators who conducted research.

He said the U.S. military has long known that the most harmful radio/microwave frequencies to man are those within the band 900 MHz to 5 GHz (900 million to 5 billion Herz), for they penetrate all organs and organ systems of the body, thus putting all human organ systems at risk. This is precisely why these frequencies are used in M/W weapons of war! he said.
Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal said today he would veto a measure derided by corporations as discriminatory toward the LGBT community in the Peachtree State.

Nathan Deal

A chorus of major businesses, sparked by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, have come out against the bill, which was pitched by its legislative proponents as a bid to protect religious freedom. Disney, Unilever and Netflix were among companies that threatened to pull the plug on Georgia business. The NFL said the law could threaten Atlanta's chances of winning an upcoming Super Bowl.

The outcry is reminiscent of a battle in Indiana last year, where Gov. Mike Pence signed a similar bill and opened the state to fierce criticism. Indiana eventually hired Porter Novelli to help undo the damage to its economic development and tourism prospects.

Deal said March 28 he was not responding to campaigns from either side of the bill, but wanted to keep Georgia a "welcoming state ... full of loving, kind and generous people." He said versions of the bill "contained language that could give rise to state-sanctioned discrimination."

Nextflix, which has filmed projects in the state over the past year and slated two more, said it would move production to another state if the law was passed.

"We strongly oppose the discriminatory language and intent of Georgia's pending religious liberty bill, which clearly violates the values and principles of inclusion and the ability of all people to live and work free from discrimination," Time Warner said in a statement.

"We would be disappointed to see our pipeline of production end at the Georgia border because of this legislation," said the film producer Amblin Partners.

At least one legislator who supported the bill said he would work to override the governor's veto.
Portarlington native, Sean Hyland was ordained a priest last Sunday in his hometown.

Portarlington native, Sean Hyland was ordained a priest last Sunday in his hometown.

Originally from Bracklone Street the 66-year old retired from working life recently.

Sean worked all his life as an electrical engineer and enjoyed a very successful career working with American multi-nationals. He spent his final years with Hewlett Packard in Leixlip and retired in 2006.

He and his wife Liz had two children Seana, who died from viral pneumonia and Ciaran who died later from Rhys Syndrome  a condition that can affect children under the age of two. He and Liz made the decision not to have any more children after their tragic loss.

Sean said he was very angry for a long time and while he questioned his faith, he continued to go to Mass. His wife Liz, from Ballickmoyler, always had faith and never doubted that her children were safe with God.

Sean described himself as a slow-learner but over time he resolved to be more like Liz. He said he drank more than he should have in those difficult years.

It dawned on me that Liz was trying to carry this and I decided I wanted to be more like Liz, he said.

When Liz became ill in April, 2008 and died the following December, Sean turned to God for support.

I begged to have the strength to support Liz as she was my pillar, strength and light. I got the strength and support, Sean said. God let me know that my children and wife and parents are safe with him.

Sean said he has no doubt that Liz played a part in him first becoming a deacon and his ordination into the priesthood on Sunday. Seans new journey took him to Rome to study for the priesthood when he became a seminarian, aged 61.

He said it has been a grace filled journey for him. He said his family members have been a great support for him in his studies. He looks forward to working in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, wherever Bishop Denis Nulty sends him.

He also thanked Fr Tom Dooley PP for his guidance and for being his sponsor for his ordination.

In attendance on Sunday were Monsignor John Byrne PP, Portlaoise, Most. Rev. Denis Nulty, Bishop of Kildare & Leighlin, Fr. Tom Dooley, PP Portarlington and Fr. Tom OByrne PP Myshall and Cloneygal. Sean was also joined by memembers of his family.
Some ConAgra Foods workers facing a layoff wont have to go far to pass out their resumes.

In what the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce said is an unusual arrangement, ConAgra has invited companies looking to hire information technology workers into its offices Tuesday for an on-site job fair.

The chamber aims to have at least 30 employers participate. Those companies would have access to about 170 information technology employees who have been notified their jobs are being eliminated.

The cuts are part of ConAgras larger efficiency effort, announced in October. The firm is laying off 1,000 office-based workers in Omaha as it restructures its business and relocates its headquarters to Chicago.

Some employees are well into a job search or may already have secured new positions, but others were in shock after the layoff announcements, said Chris Carlson, regional manager for Aureus Group, a staffing firm specializing in information systems and information technology jobs.

Other people take a little bit longer to go through a cycle of change, Carlson said. Tuesday may be the first time theyre showing their resume, or maybe they dont even have one.

Aureus will participate in the Tuesday job fair, which is open only to ConAgra employees. Carlson said the firm can connect workers with either full-time work or a temporary position.

Theres a scarcity of information technology and information systems workers in Omaha, Carlson said. But that doesnt mean every worker will easily pick up a comparable job to what he or she had at ConAgra.

Some of a workers skills may be out-of-date, or may be pertinent mainly to a Fortune 500 consumer packaged goods company. Carlson said Aureus can help an employee think through the options.

If youve been doing one thing for one company for this long, in technology, things change really quickly, she said. Especially if a worker does not want to leave Omaha, sometimes you have to take a couple steps back to go forward.

She said employees who present themselves professionally and are willing to be open-minded will have the most success.

Arlin Halstead, human resources director at IT security firm Solutionary, said he is trying to be open-minded as well. He hopes to fill six to 10 of his 30 open positions with departing ConAgra workers, including software developers and mid-level managers.

He said hes trying to look beyond job titles to see what types of additional aptitudes or skills do they have as it relates to critical thinking or problem solving?

Halstead said he also is willing to wait until after May 27 for ConAgra employees, a date some employees must work through in order to qualify for severance benefits. ConAgra employees have a good reputation for being skilled, with the added benefit they dont need to be sold on living in Omaha, Halstead said.

ConAgra spokesman Chris Kircher said the company wanted to help employees find new, local job opportunities.

We believe this is the right thing to do and provides an opportunity to not only benefit these employees and their families, but also the entire community, he said. ConAgra declined to allow The World-Herald to attend the event.

The event will include a session of speed interviews, as well as the opportunity for private interviews, and a traditional job fair with booths where employers can pass out information, said Sarah Moylan, the chambers senior director for talent.

Ahead of the job fair, the chamber organized a series of job search workshops at ConAgra offices, with help on writing resumes, interviewing and creating or updating LinkedIn profiles. The services are paid for by the chamber and its Prosper Omaha economic development fundraising effort.

The event fits in with the chambers larger effort to keep laid-off ConAgra workers in Omaha. Since October, Moylan said, more than 600 job seekers, about three-fourths of whom are from ConAgra, have partipated in the chambers We Keep Talent initiative, which has included networking sessions and job search assistance.

The effort will continue this spring, and the chamber will evaluate the program this summer to see if it should continue past the point of ConAgras corporate move.

Allowing employees to participate during work hours shows, really, goodwill on the part of ConAgra to do right, and do everything they can to help these employees, Moylan said.

She said the job fair also shows that the wider Omaha business community wants to help.

This wouldnt necessarily happen anywhere, she said.

Contact the writer: 402-444-1336, barbara.soderlin@owh.com

* * * * *

More ConAgra coverage
PHILADELPHIA  When a blizzard blankets a customers business, making entrance impossible, when a fallen tree blocks a driveway, when leaves or ice clog a drain, flooding the parking lot, landscaper Bob Keller wants to be there for his customers.

Which is why Keller said he decided to invest more in his employees by offering 401(k) retirement plans.

Its job security for them and for me, said Keller, 38, who employs six to eight people full time year round and more seasonally at R.P. Keller Landscaping Inc.

Kellers decision comes as the federal government and some states, including New Jersey, where hes based, are looking to encourage small businesses to provide retirement savings programs to employees.

New Jerseys law, signed in January, will create a retirement savings marketplace enabling employers to establish such plans. Laws like it are being considered around the country as the burden of financing retirement has shifted from employers, through pensions, to their staff.

But many employees, especially those paid less, have no retirement savings, according to a U.S. Federal Reserve report last May. Four in 10 of those surveyed have given little or no thought to retirement and fewer than a third have savings.

Nationally, 22 percent of companies like Kellers  with fewer than 10 employees  provide retirement plans, according to a Pew Charitable Trusts report in January.

By contrast, three in four employees of companies with 500 or more workers have access to retirement plans.

Its not hard to grasp, Keller said. Health care, vacation pay, time-and-a-half over 40 hours. It leads to employment longevity and stability.

When his workers invest in the company and serve customers, they can get it back, he said.

Pews review of federal data finds that 49 percent of the nations workers participate in a workplace retirement savings program; 58 percent have access to one.

Among those shut out are independent contractors working in the so-called gig economy and workers who cobble together part-time jobs.

Its a concern that people have adequate retirement savings, said Richard McHugh, vice president of the Plan Sponsor Council of America, an advocacy group for organizations and companies that offer work-based retirement plans to employees.

In Philadelphia, Sam Mink, 40, owner of the Oyster House, didnt need a government program to encourage him to set up a 401(k) program for his full-time employees, with 27 out of 50 eligible.

My success is their success, said Mink, who believes that retirement savings and health benefits reduce turnover in a sector where employees change jobs as often as diners change orders.

His challenge, he said, is to persuade employees to participate. Thats why he provides a match.

Its like free money, Mink said. They are leaving money on the table if they dont participate.

Chef Brett Naylor, 30, doesnt need convincing.

It was one of the selling points for me coming to the Oyster House, he said. Given the competition, smaller restaurants have to start offering perks like this to attract talent.

Dan Hernandez, a certified financial planner who represents Lincoln Investment Inc., a Philadelphia-area broker-dealer, says hes seeing more interest in 401(k) plans from small-business clients, who tend to have a protective attitude toward employees.

A 401(k) plan allows workers to save for retirement with a pre-tax payroll deduction that is funneled to a financial services company, which invests it. As a benefit, some employers match a portion of the deduction, amounting to more compensation, which also is not taxed.

Hernandez said some clients may be offering 401(k) plans because theyre less expensive than health insurance.

You can put your employee in a plan and offer them a match of 3 percent of their salary, which is infinitely less than offering health insurance, he said.

Assuming someone earning $50,000 contributes 3 percent, the employers 401(k) match would equal $1,500  compared with $5,000, the average employer contribution for health insurance for one employee, according to the Kaiser Family Foundations annual survey.

Even as officials work to raise participation in retirement savings plans, the youngest workers arent that interested, concludes a December survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute.

Millennial workers tend not to know about benefits, including retirement, or care about them, EBRIs study shows.

Many would rather have the money and buy health insurance or save for retirement on their own.
MASTIC BEACH, N.Y.  They call it The Matrix, the trove of maps at City Hall that pinpoint all the zombie houses in this 4.2-square-mile seaside community. Theres one on nearly every block.

Its like a cancer, Mayor Maura Spery said. Each one of these is hurting property values for six or seven houses around it. Who wants to live in a place with so many vacant houses?

The vacant properties are called zombie houses because their ownership is in limbo: mortgage holders have left, but banks havent yet taken possession through foreclosure, leaving the properties abandoned and often decaying.

A relic of the Great Recession, zombie houses remain and are even growing in several states, including New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts, which together account for 40 percent of the nations vacant foreclosures. Over the past year, the number of zombie houses also has risen in Oklahoma, Michigan and Washington.

State and local officials like Spery are tired of them and are demanding or taking action. They say the public cost of trying to maintain the vacant houses is unacceptable, and say the zombies are driving down the value of neighboring property.

New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has proposed requiring banks to take responsibility for maintenance as soon as a house is vacant, so they cant avoid responsibility by postponing foreclosure. In February Schneiderman announced a $3.2 billion settlement with Morgan Stanley, part of which will help local governments offset the costs of dealing with the properties.

In Memphis, Tennessee, a neighbor can collect a $25 credit toward eventually buying a home each time he cuts the grass at an abandoned property under a mow to own program. Its an approach thats also been used in St. Louis; Columbus, Ohio; and Rockford, Illinois.

In New Jersey, which has more than 4,000 zombies  the most of any state  lenders by law must notify local governments about properties that become vacant before foreclosure is finished, and must be available to help with repairs and maintenance. The law allows towns to fine lenders up to $2,500 a day if they dont comply.

As the nations housing market has improved, the number of zombie houses declined from 46,715 in 2013 to 19,793 by the start of this year, the real estate information company RealtyTrac estimates. Thats a 58 percent drop.

Entering the year, Suffolk County, New York, where Mastic Beach is located, had the highest number of zombies in the country, at 625, followed by Camden, New Jersey, at 596. RealtyTrac bases its estimates on matching houses in foreclosure with vacancies reported by the U.S. Postal Service.

Its improving nationally but becoming more concentrated in some areas, said Julia Gordon, executive vice president at the National Community Stabilization Trust, a nonprofit that works with local governments to free up zombies and other troubled properties for use as affordable housing.

Many advocates for property owners say foreclosure delays often are caused by banks or contracted loan servicers that deliberately back out of proceedings before taking possession to avoid legal responsibility for the property.

The rate of foreclosure rose more quickly during the crisis, and stayed higher afterward, in states with lengthy court-supervised foreclosure procedures, Mortgage Bankers Association surveys of loan performance show.

As of late last year, according to association economist Joel Kan, nearly 3 percent of loans were in the foreclosure process in states with court-supervised foreclosure laws, compared with 1 percent for other states.

Richard Simon of Bank of America said foreclosure delays are common in a state like New York because of the lengthy process. But, he said, its never in the banks financial interest to step back from foreclosure to avoid responsibility for a property.

Extended foreclosure and property preservation are quite expensive and only add to the large financial losses already being absorbed in most foreclosures, Simon said.

But Peter Skillern, director of Reinvestment Partners, a North Carolina nonprofit that advocates for fairer lending in poor communities, said: Sometimes the reality is that these banks have thousands of these houses and they really dont know what to do.

The New York proposal would also establish a hotline for residents to report vacancies, and would require banks to notify homeowners that the law permits them to stay in their homes until ordered to leave by a judge.

The argument is that the presence of the original owner would help prevent decay of the property, while making it easier to establish ownership so a loan could be restructured or the property sold in a short sale.

Homeowners are often shocked to find out that they still own houses they thought were foreclosed, and that they may even be responsible for cleanup bills, said Judith Fox, a facilitator for state foreclosure court in Indiana, who is conducting a study of abandoned housing in South Bend.

Experimental land banks that can accept donated houses from banks and repurpose them have sprung up in New Yorks Syracuse and Suffolk Counties.

Oklahoma  where zombies have almost doubled in the past year, to 225  passed a law in 2014 allowing towns to recover costs for maintaining vacant houses through tax liens.

The law also allows the city to charge owners for police and fire calls to abandoned homes, services that cost the city $6.4 million a year, a 2013 study found. Property values were $2.7 billion lower because of the zombies.

One part of the New York law would create a statewide registry, run by the Attorney Generals Office. Fines for failing to register would go to local governments to help pay for responding to complaints about zombie properties. That would be a welcome development, Mastic Beachs Spery said.
SEATTLE  Joyce Juntunen balances an open laptop on her left forearm like the appendage it has become.

Its with her throughout the day as she checks the progress of her 20-person sales team at Bizible, a tech startup in Seattle that helps companies gauge the success of their marketing efforts. And it follows her home at night where, as she sits on the couch with her husband, she can call up a series of charts and graphs to gauge the teams success and view trends.

Juntunen started her career in sales when it was a numbers game: Call as many people as possible on a brokered list, and snag as many sales as you can. Now she plays a numbers game of a different sort, one driven by data that are changing not just her workplace but the way she works.

Its transformed the profession, she said, calling up a screen on her computer that provides an up-to-the minute visual snapshot of what and how her people are doing.

In a matter of seconds, Juntunen can tell whos killing it and whos falling behind.

Juntunen drills down even further to see how many prospecting calls each salesperson has made, the number of appointments theyve made, the number of emails theyve sent or had generated by a computer on their behalf. She can tell which emails were opened and when, and which got traction.

All told, Bizible uses about 10 software programs to analyze data about itself, its employees and its clients to improve productivity and determine which marketing efforts are paying off.

It might feel like Big Brother has taken over the office, but Juntunen said theres nothing nefarious or creepy going on here. In fact, the salespeople have the same information, and can change what isnt working to be more successful.

Data enables better measurement and more accountability, Juntunen said.

If any of this troubles Bizibles employees, they can express their displeasure to the boss on Fridays, when the company sends out a weekly survey via email, or later, when the monthly happiness survey lands in their inboxes.

The real-time measuring and feedback, and the ability to make a case for change with the click of a mouse, is what the job of a high-tech salesperson looks like in 2016. And its what a lot of work is going to look like.

Big data, its called, and its recasting jobs in everything from retail sales and medicine to education and professional sports.

Theres really big things going on, said Ellie Fields, vice president of product marketing for Tableau Software, a Seattle-based firm that is helping create a new type of work culture  and a new type of employee  by making data easier to understand and analyze.

We call it the culture of analytics, said Fields, whose firm turns raw numbers into dashboards of tables, charts and other visuals to answer questions that can be quantified.

Amazon and Microsoft, along with Google, are driving the big data revolution with cloud storage  remote servers that allow massive amounts of information (everything from baby pictures to the financials of multinational corporations) to be stored off-site and analyzed from anywhere theres an Internet connection.

The vast quantities of data being uploaded to the cloud represent a small fraction of the information that eventually will be collected and accessed from anywhere. Already the tools for analyzing that data are changing work itself, leading to the creation of what one analyst calls the quantified employee.

Data analysis is far from new. Companies have done it for eons. The big change is the scale, the speed and the breadth of the information, and how its used. Instead of hunches and gut feelings, decisions are guided increasingly by data, and productivity measured by an increasing number of metrics.

Theres already a slew of examples:

 Amazon, perhaps the most data-driven company in history, measures everything it can, including the number of steps employees take to retrieve items in its warehouses.

 McDonalds, a leader in analytics, uses data to predict customer behavior so closely that employee shifts and even where they will stand at any given time are driven by numbers.

 UPS delivery drivers are monitored by sensors in the trucks that track everything from driving speeds to stop times.

 Some retailers use floor sensors to track the movement of people in their stores, while others have experimented with ID badges fitted with microphones, location sensors and motion detectors that measure how employee interactions affect productivity.

As analytics continue to infiltrate the workplace, some question whether it represents a fundamental power shift away from the employee.

Data processing and storage speeds double every year, said Elisabeth Jones, an analytics consultant and a lecturer at the University of Washingtons Information School. Over 10 to 20 years, well have all the speed and storage we need to run this stuff. It all comes back to the issue of power: Who gets access to the data sets? The people who can pay for them.

Jones said people act differently when they know theyre being watched, and the potential to control employees merely by watching them is real.

Humans do things for reasons, she said. Not everything can be reduced to numbers. Theres lots to the human experience that cant be measured that way. Its important what youre monitoring, and where the data are coming from. After you pile it up, does it tell you what you think its telling you? You can reach conclusions about why when you only have what. 

Others are more optimistic, seeing opportunities to improve safety by monitoring and managing fatigue in dangerous professions and empowering employees to make themselves more valuable by giving them fact-based feedback.

Analyst Josh Bersin, a frequent author on the subject of corporate human resources, said 21 percent of adults in America are already using technology to track their activities, and the use of analytics by human resources departments is merely an extension of what weve already embraced.
An associate degree from the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis will now transfer directly to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln under an agreement signed this month.

Current and future students at Curtis can take two years of classes there and spend the final two years at UNL to earn a bachelors degree, according to the agreement. Curtis graduates can also easily transfer the credits from an already completed associate degree to UNL, according to a spokeswoman from UNLs Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

While the two institutions have long partnered on some degree programs, this new agreement means students from Curtis can take their credits easily to enroll in any UNL program, not just those that pair directly with the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, which offers only associate degree programs.

Steven Waller, UNL dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, and Technical Agriculture Dean Ron Rosati signed the agreement March 18.

We have had a very long and productive history with NCTA that has evolved over time to one of the most innovative partnerships between a two-year and four-year institution, Waller said in a press release.

The result of these partnerships is expanded access and opportunities for students in the state interested in careers in agriculture.
DETROIT (AP)  From the pulpit of an African-American church in Detroit not long ago, Bishop Corletta Vaughn offered a rousing endorsement of Hillary Clinton that went far beyond politics.

With a smiling Clinton sitting a few feet away in the purple-walled Holy Ghost Cathedral, Vaughn said she had seen Clinton take a licking and keep on ticking. Alluding to Bill Clintons past infidelity, she added: Im not talking about politically. Im talking about as a wife and a mother. Thats when I said: I love that woman. She taught so many of us as women how to stand in the face of adversity.

During a primary season in which she has faced surprisingly strong competition and been bombarded with criticism of her trustworthiness, Clinton has maintained a strong bond with one significant bloc of Democratic Party voters. Black women, part of President Barack Obamas winning coalition in 2008 and 2012, have locked arms behind Clinton, hailing her as a Democratic standard-bearer, survivor and friend.

That determination and strength, particularly has meaning to African-American women, said Sharon Reed, 60, a community college teacher from North Charleston, South Carolina. Who has overcome more obstacles and darts and arrows than she has? And shes still standing and shes still strong.

Though the primary contest is not over, Clinton, the former secretary of state, holds a big delegate lead over Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and is considered likely to win the Democratic nomination. African-American women have played a big part: About 8 in 10 across all the states where exit polling has been conducted have voted for her, and in some cases support has been above 90 percent.

Clinton has fared less well with other groups, in particular with younger voters and white men, many of whom have preferred Sanders. But, as in past years, black women are demonstrating that they are motivated. So far, they have made up at least a slightly larger share of the electorate than black men in almost all states with significant black populations, and a significantly larger share in seven of those states.

Shell need those women in November. When Democrat Obama won the past two elections, he counted on black womens votes, and he got them. In 2008, some 68 percent voted in the general election, and 70 percent came out in 2012. According to exit polling, the vast majority voted for Obama.

Clintons campaign has sought to reinforce these bonds. At black churches and businesses, she has stressed her ties to the popular president and touted endorsements from leaders such as Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, a civil rights icon. She has emphasized issues like criminal justice reform and gun control and is campaigning alongside black women who have lost children to gun violence.

I really got the sense that she could really relate to us, as being mothers and women and daughters, said Lucy McBath, whose teenage son Jordan Davis was shot and killed at a Jacksonville, Florida, gas station in 2012. Lucy McBath was part of a group of mothers who met with Clinton privately in the fall and has been out campaigning for her.

These efforts have been headed by LaDavia Drane, who joined the campaign last year as director of African-American outreach. She has sought out female pastors like Vaughn for Clintons church visits. She organized the meeting between Clinton and the mothers impacted by gun violence. And she has worked to establish grass-roots networks for black women such Heels for Hillary in cities around the country.

Drane described Clintons connection to mothers, particularly black mothers, as a secret sauce, its a match made in heaven.

Before black audiences, Clinton appears at ease. At the Detroit church, she opened up about her personal struggles.

What has always guided me and supported me has been my faith, she said. She recalled the parable of the prodigal son and seemed to reference her husband, now diligently campaigning for her. When someone who has disappointed you, who has often disappointed themselves, decides to come home, it is human nature to say youre not wanted ... but thats not what the father in this parable did.

Evelyn Simien, a professor at the University of Connecticut who studies black voting patterns, said Clintons outreach has been savvy. But she also stressed that black women have long been active Democratic voters and they know Clinton far better than Sanders. She said this years support is not just about personal connection, but that it comes down to politics and the issues.

Clintons close relationships with black women date back to one of her first political mentors, Marian Wright Edelman, the founder of the Childrens Defense Fund. Black women have held top positions with Clinton over the years, including Maggie Williams, who was chief of staff when Clinton was first lady, and Cheryl Mills, chief of staff when she was secretary of state. In the current campaign, black women are in key roles, including senior spokeswoman Karen Finney and senior policy adviser Maya Harris. Strategist Minyon Moore has long served as an outside consultant.

I feel a kinship to who she is. She knows and understands the battle that we fight every day, said Ohio Congresswoman Marcia Fudge, a past chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus. She has a special place for us because she really gets it.

Copyright 2016 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Barack Obama walked the cobblestone streets of Old Havana to cheers of Welcome to Cuba! After decades of official hostility between the United States and Cuba, Obama has successfully nudged the two toward normal relations.

After decades of craziness, its heartening to see smart policy regarding Cuba. So Cuba remains a repressive country run by a dictator. We do business with those kinds of places all the time. And nothing is going to change Cuba faster than a surge of American visitors and investors.

Americas long-running, robotic animus toward a country with a Castro in charge is not only an emotional response. Its ineffectual, as well. The trade embargo has impoverished the Cuban people, cut off a foreign market for American businesses and sent boatloads of people packing for the United States.

And the meaner America has been, the more the Castro brothers could justify their police-state crackdowns. They needed us to play the villain in their fairy tale.

Obama only frustrates them. By ditching the with us or agin us approach to foreign affairs, he actually weakens our would-be adversaries. It is a judo move that turns our foes dead weight against them, making our rivals lose their balance.

Our political blowhards dont get this at all. They call Obama a wimp when he quietly sits through anti-American protests in Latin America. But as Obama explained to The Atlantic, ignoring the ranters helps right-size such egotists as Venezuelas late strongman, Hugo Chavez  rather than blow him up as this 10-foot giant adversary.

Raul Castro did not greet Obama at the airport, not so much out of hostility as out of fear that hed seem small next to the American president getting the love from his people. Granma, Cubas official Communist Party news service, predictably warned Obama not to expect Cuba to abandon its revolutionary ideals with a warming of relations. Thats nice.

Cubans who have trouble finding even potatoes in their stores know that elsewhere in the Caribbean, potatoes weigh down Costco warehouse shelves. Small wonder Castro fears overly warm outbursts of friendship.

Thanks to the thaw, Google has apparently signed a deal with Cuba to revolutionize the islands lousy broadband and Wi-Fi access. Imagine the flow of information then.

Back in our more bellicose political quarters, Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida is vowing to continue blocking a U.S. ambassador to Cuba. Castro needs Rubio as much as Rubio needs Castro. For what useful purpose has become increasingly unclear.

Many remember the bizarre case of Elian Gonzalez, the Cuban boy caught in an epic custody battle some 16 years ago. Elians mother had drowned while trying to bring her 5-year-old onto the shores of Florida. Elians father in Cuba wanted his son sent back, but the Miami relatives insisted the boy stay with them.

The case for keeping Elian here was that America was a better place to live than the Communist dictatorship of Fidel Castro. Fortunately, U.S. family law prevailed: A man didnt lose the rights to his son because he was a Cuban wanting to live in Cuba.

Now a handsome man of 22, Elian Gonzalez says hed like to come back to the United States  but only to visit as a tourist. What a fine ending to this story.

Perhaps the most perceptive take of Obamas visit to Cuba came from Carmen Diaz, a 70-year-old resident of Havana. I feel this visit of an American president to Cuba is being done in the most elegant way possible, Diaz told the New York Times, from his initial campaign to now inspiring a new era of relations with Cuba.

Our elegant president has done us proud. Contact the writer: fharrop@gmail.com
'Kantara' impact: 'Daiva Narthakas' above 60 years of age to get Rs 2,000 monthly allowance

Late actor Puneeth Rajkumar to be conferred with 'Karnataka Ratna' award on Nov 1

Karnataka to strengthen ATS and up the number of prisons

Bengaluru: Doctor in overspeeding Mercedes kills one, injures 4

Bengaluru

oi-Sandra

Bengaluru, March 28: A doctor who was behind the wheels of a brand new Mercedes rammed into four vehicles in less than five minutes causing the death of a scooterist and injuring four others before ramming into a house.

The doctor identified as NS Shankar was driving a Mercedes Benz- C 200 when he first hit a car near Madhavan Park in south Bengaluru. Following this Shankar hit two other cars and a two wheeler before ramming into a house bringing him to a halt.

Reports suggest that Shankar's domestic help and her two-year-old son were in the car.

Bengaluru: Car rammed into 2 cars & a scooter yesterday, then crashed into a house killing 1,injuring 3(Source:CCTV)https://t.co/CcfVYBU18P  ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2016

Shankar was immediately taken into custody by police officials and was subjected to a breathalyser test which was negative.

The doctor told police officials that he felt giddy while he was driving and did not remember hitting so many vehicles. "A i remeber was I dashed some vehicle. After that I lost consciousness," he said.

OneIndia News
In the Lahore attack, there is a loud message from the ISIS

Feature

oi-Vicky

By Vicky

A group called the Jamaat-ul-Ahrar claimed responsibility for the attack at Lahore on Sunday in which nearly 60 persons were killed. The JuA is an outfit which had broken away from the Tehrik-e-Taliban or the Pakistan Taliban in 2014 while pledging support to the ISIS.

The ideology of the JuA is today similar to the ISIS and the attacks at Lahore on Sunday were a clear indicator of the same.

Lahore blast: Narendra Modi calls up Nawaz Sharif

They had made it clear that the attacks were carried out to target Christians as yesterday was Easter. The focus of the JuA has always remained on creating an Islamic state.

Inspired by the ISIS

The JuA was formed after it broke away from the Pakistan Taliban. It was formed under the control of Omar Khalid Khorasani who was known to be close to the al-Qaeda earlier.

However today the group has changed course and after seeing the success of the ISIS, it had decided not only to support it, but also implement its ideology in Pakistan.

When the faction was formed, Khorasani had said that the Pakistan Taliban had become very indisciplined. Due to factional fighting within the Pakistan Taliban and ideological differences, we have decided to form the JuA, Khorasani had also said.

Khorasani had always been an ideologically driven man. However many had doubted whether the JuA could get close to the ISIS considering Khorasani's close association with the al-Qaeda. Khorasani however realised that the al-Qaeda was a fading outfit and the sooner, he pledged support to the ISIS, the better it would be.

While we celebrate Kohli's knock, let's also spare a thought for Lahore blast victims

The job of getting closer to the ISIS was done by his Maulana Qasim Khorasani.

Khorasani had always argued that the fight should be to install an Islamic state. He was clearly unhappy with the manner in which the Pakistan Taliban was fighting the battle. He felt that the Pakistan Taliban was more interested in gaining control over the tribal belts rather than install an Islamic state in Pakistan.

Khorasani had often urged the Pakistan Taliban to set up an Islamic state and said that the emergence of the same in the region must happen from Pakistan before spreading to the rest of Asia.

The attack at Lahore conveyed a loud and clear message. While the Pakistan government continued to insist that Christians were not the target, the JuA countered that statement.

The ISIS too has been targeting Christians largely with the intention of sending a message that Islam is superior. This is a part of their propaganda in a bid to unite the Islamic world.

This attack should not just worry Pakistan but the rest of Asia. Khorasani's words were clear when he said the rise of the Islamic State must begin in Pakistan and spread to the rest of Asia.
Pakistan should continue to take credible action against terror: India

Rotavirus Vaccine developed under Make In India Initiative

Feature

oi-Lisa

By Lisa

J P Nadda, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare attended a function for the national launch of the Rotavirus vaccine as part of the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP).

The Rotavirus vaccine has been developed indigenously, under a public-private partnership by the Ministry of Science and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. This therefore is a landmark achievement under 'Make in India' initiative.

At the event the health minister said that, "We have achieved a new milestone towards expanding the coverage of full immunisation in the country aimed at reducing child mortality".

He termed launch of Rotavirus vaccine as an historic moment and an exemplary step in India's immunisation programme, the Union Health Minister added that the Government is committed to reducing morbidity and mortality in children.

Introduction of Rotavirus vaccine will avert 27,000 deaths of children due to diarrhoea, 2.91L hospitalizations and 6.86L outpatients visit  Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) March 26, 2016

Strengthening routine immunisation is an essential investment in India's children and will ensure a healthy future of the country, he noted.

He further added that, "Rotavirus is one of the leading causes of severe diarrhoea and death among children less than five years of age, and that every year nearly 80,000 to one lakh children die in the country due to Rotavirus diarrhoea, and about 9 lakh children are admitted to hospital due to episodes of severe diarrhoea with 32.7 lakh cases of OPD".

Major milestone of Union Health Ministry: Rotavirus vaccine to avert children's deaths due to diarrhoea  Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) March 26, 2016

Mr. Nadda informed that introduction of Rotavirus vaccine will enable us to directly address the problem of diarrheal deaths. The vaccine is being introduced initially in four states i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Odisha and will be expanded to the entire country in a phased manner.

Rotavirus vaccine rolled out in HP, Haryana, Odisha and AP in the first phase, as part of UIP. pic.twitter.com/VLrMT6w9aY  Narendra Modi (@narendramcdi) March 27, 2016

He further noted that, "Adding this life-saving vaccine to our immunisation program will not only improve the health of our children but also reduce hospitalisation and other conditions associated with diarrhea due to Rotavirus such as malnutrition, delayed physical and mental development among children. Reduced hospitalisation reduces the economic burden on the family and the health cost burden on the country".

More new vaccines:

Four new vaccines are being introduced as part of UIP including Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Rotavirus vaccine, Measles, Rubella (MR) vaccine, and Adult Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine.

With these new vaccines, India's UIP will provide free vaccines against 12 life threatening diseases, to 27 million children annually, the largest birth cohort in the world.

IPV has been introduced in six states from 30 Nov 2015 for provide double protection against Polio.

India's immunisation programme:

India's Universal Immunisation Programme launched in 1985 is one of the largest immunisation programmes in the world and a major public health intervention in the country.

Present Union Government aims to give maximum protection to the children against Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPDs).

Following this vision, the Ministry of Health has launched 'Mission Indradhanush' in December 2014 to fully immunise more than 89 lakh children who are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.

In two phases of 'Mission Indradhanush' spread over April 2015 to July 2015 and October 2015 to January 2016 a total of 1.42 crore children and 36.7 lakh women were immunised in 20 lakh immunisation sessions.

The gains made in 'Mission Indradhanush' have led to health systems strengthening, which provides India a good opportunity for the introduction of a new vaccine and ensures the reach of immunisation program to each and every child.

The role of public representatives in taking public health programs to the grassroots level is very crucial.
Voter Awareness Programme in Puducherry

Feature

oi-Lisa

By Lisa

As Puducherry prepares to vote for Assembly Election 2016 there are some noteworthy developments happening in the union territory.

Congress is busy accusing the ruling party for not seeking funds from the Union Government for the development of Puducherry while raising the demand for statehood again.

The ruling party AINRC on the other hand is confident that various welfare schemes implemented by the Chief Minister N Rangasamy during the last five years will be able to win them another term.

[Assembly Elections 2016: Know your Union Territory - Puducherry]

Here is what has been keeping political parties and election commission busy in Puducherry:

Voter awareness programme:

As the union territory Puducherry gets ready for Assembly Election 2016 the district election officer S Sundaravadivelou launched voters' awareness programme. This is in keeping with the directives of the Election Commission under "Systematic Voters Education and Electoral participation".

For the same numerous student volunteers have been assigned the duty as ambassadors. The students are to carry out door to door contact progamme with the voters and distribute handbills.

When "Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation" was launched volunteering students were also present.

Thanks to such programmes Puducherry has witnessed huge voter turnout during 2011 Assembly Election and 2014 Lok Sabha Election. In 2011 voter turnout was 86% and in 2014 it was 84%.

[Puducherry Assembly Elections 2016: Know your leader Profile- N Rangasamy]

Strategies of different parties:

With not even two months left for the Puducherry Assembly Election 2016 it is surprising that political parties have come up with no strategy with regards to forging an alliance or contesting the election on own.

The ruling party has kept everyone guessing as to which party it wants to form an alliance with. For 2011 Assembly Election ruling party AINRC had forged an alliance with AIADMK while for 2014 Lok Sabha Election it has forged an alliance with BJP. For Rajya Sabha polls AINRC had again allied with AIADMK last year and AINRC member and close friend of Chief Minister, N. Gokulakrishnan was elected to Rajya Sabha unopposed.

In 2011 AINRC had won 15 seats while AIADMK had won five. During 2014 election for NDA R Radhakrishnan contested and won the Puducherry seat. With the way ruling AINRC has been forging an alliance no one can for sure tell with whom AINRC will form an alliance this year.

No debate on prohibition:

Many analysts are pointing out that all political parties are playing safe while preparing their election manifestos for the Assembly Election 2016 and are not ready to talk about serious issue like prohibition.

It has been noted that Puducherry is haven for those who want to drink alcohol and so political parties are not ready to talk about prohibition as it would be a major setback as far as electoral prospects are concerned. In 1979 when prohibition was brought in Puducherry it lasted only two months. Also in 1980 Assembly Election allies AIADMK and Janata Dal had to face wrath of the voters.

Since then political parties have not tried to bring in prohibition in Puducherry. Alcohol consumption is not considered taboo in this former French colony and it is also considered a major reason for attracting tourists.

Prohibition or restricted sale of alcohol it is feared would dramatically reduce the number of European tourists. The treasury of the union territory also depends on the revenue earned from excise duty on sale of liquor.

It is worth noting that mainstream parties in Tamil Nadu talk about bringing in totalprohibition but in Puducherry they never mention or advocate prohibition. One reason could be that many candidates fund their campaigns through earnings from arrack shops that they own or manage.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 16:33 [IST]
Salaries in India likely to increase by 10.4%: Here is why

7th Pay Commission: Govt employees not happy? Officers meet Jitendra Singh

India

oi-Reetu

New Delhi, Mar 28: It seems that the central government employees are not really pleased with the proposed pay scales of 7th Pay Commission as reports suggests that they have said that this would further deprive them financially.

7th Pay Commission decoded: Know all about salary increment, past pay commissions

Not only this, recently, a confederation of civil services officers association met Union Minister Jitendra Singh and requested him to alter the composition of a high-powered panel created recently to process the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission as they were "apprehensive" of its neutrality.

The confederation members led by the Convenor and General Secretary of the All India IRS (Income Tax) Jayant Mishra, Gen Secretary of the IPS Association P V Ramasastry and President of the Indian Information Service (IIS) Ranjana Dev Sarmah including office bearers of four other services met Singh, the Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

The delegation of the Confederation of Civil Service Associations (CoCSA) said Singh, assured them that their concerns will be "appropriately examined."

"The Government has formed a Committee of Secretaries to examine the Report of the 7th Central Pay Commission.

Unfortunately, eight of the 13 members of the Committee belong to one particular Service and therefore the CoCSA is apprehensive of its neutrality on issues related to parity and equality of opportunities.

"We, therefore request the Government to implement inter Service parity related issues as recommended by a majority decision of the Pay Commission as such because the recommendations have been made by a body headed by retired Supreme Court Judge which has meticulously examined the issues for about 20 months after a wide consultation with all the stakeholders.

"If the Government, however, feels the necessity to examine the matter further, it may be done by a Service neutral body and not the present Committee," the confederation said.

The Centre, in January this year, had set up a high-powered panel headed by Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha to process the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission which will have bearing on the remuneration of 47 lakh central government employees and 52 lakh pensioners.

OneIndia News

(With inputs from agencies)

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 20:21 [IST]
RTI activist Baliga murder: Supari killers took indirect orders from a senior political leader?

India

oi-Shreyas

Mangaluru, Mar 28: The Mangaluru police will probe the murder of RTI activist, Vinayak Baliga from various angles. Considering that the two persons arrested in connection with this case, do not have a history of criminal antecedents, the police would look into an aspect of whether they acted on the orders of some other person.

Sources say that these persons may have not acted individually and could have indirectly taken orders from a senior leader of a political party and from someone associated with the Yuva Brigade. While the probe is at a very preliminary stage, the police is leaving no stone unturned to the bottom of the matter.

The multiple reliable sources indicate to OneIndia that alleged contract killers aka supari killers indirectly took orders from a person associated with Yuva Brigade and a senior political leader belonging to a national party.

RTI activist Vinayak Baliga was murdered in the wee hours of March 21, Monday. He was on his way to temple on his scooter, when unidentified persons waylaid him at Kodialbail and killed using sharp weapons. The police investigating the case arrested two, Vineeth Poojary (26) and Nishith Devadiga (23). Both residents of Mangaluru.

The police team led by ACP Tilak Kumar and City Crime Branch, Inspector Valentine D'Souza netted two accused in the murder case on March 27, Sunday. Valentine said "we have arrested the two and hunt for others who has ordered the murder is on."

The police likely to probe victim's RTI activism angle as a cause for death, that mainly include his complaints against a popular Venkataramana Temple run by GSB (Goud Saraswat Brahmin) community, Mangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited, unauthorised constructions from Mangaluru City Corporation and South Canara District Central Cooperative Bank.

However multiple sources to the tune of 20- 25, from various sections, to whom this news portal spoke to, narrowed down the cause of assassination to, RTI activist Baliga's fight against alleged misappropriation of funds and maladministration in Venkataramana Temple.

Besides a reliable sources from the GSB community, those who are in the know of state of affairs in the temple shockingly revealed that a person belonging to Yuva Brigade (who hail from GSB community and privy to the temple issue) and his close friend affiliated to a national political party have involved in the killing.

Taking specific names of three persons, Shrikanth, Shailesh and Shivu, the sources said these three persons are missing after the incident and the police have to look for them in order to crack the case.

One person named Shrikanth, is a close associate of an individual from Yuva Brigade and Shailesh is close aide of a senior political leader. Another person Shivu is a common friend to both.

Meanwhile, the president of Federation of Indian Rationalist Association, Narendra Nayak said "Baliga after took on temple affairs, recently expressed with one GSB person that- You don't know, some in our community (GSB) are capable of doing anything or going to any extreme." Baliga had hinted this, Nayak divulged.

Nayak is of the opinion that it is not only the temple issue led to the murder of Baliga, but also slue of other issues. "It appears all vested interests colluded to eliminate Baliga. I have a letter written by Baliga, in which he has mentioned number of complaints pertaining to Venkataramana temple's ill administration," Nayak mentioned in the telephonic conversation.

The Mangaluru City Police Commissioner, M Chandra Sekhar in a press meet on March 27 said accused does not have any criminal history attached so far.

While the police only put out the name and the place of the accused, other details were not yet put across to the press. However sources indicate that the both the accused were actively working for a youth Hindu organisation.

OneIndia News
Man holds 8-year-old precariously in well on theft suspicion; Case registered after video on social media

Man beats up traffic cop when questioned about tinted glass in his car

Bizarre: Madhya Pradesh man rapes cow

India

oi-Jagriti

Bhopal, Mar 28: In a shocking incident, a man in his 50s has been arrested for sexually abusing a cow in Betul district of Madhya Pradesh, media reported.

The accused charged under section 377 (unnatural sex) of IPC, has been identified as 50-year-old Sravan Vyas.

This incident took place on March 19 is the second such incident reported from the state. The first such incident was reported in 2013 in Balaghat district.

Vyas was spotted in the unnatural act by three women. They reported the matter to one Mithlesh Kumar who called up police and got him arrested. The cow, police said, had escaped from a farmer's shed, reported the Times of India.

Punjab Shame: Youth rapes 7-month-old calf

"We think he was in an inebriated condition and also under influence of some drugs that could not be deducted during the medical examination," Pankaj Tyagi, the station house officer (SHO) of Kotwali police station was quoted as saying.

An unrest was reported in the area after locals came to know about the incident.

OneIndia News
Amit Shah: Congress not stopping infiltration

India

oi-PTI

Dhakuakona (Assam), Mar 28: Raking up the issue of infiltration of Bangladeshis in Assam, BJP president Amit Shah today accused the ruling Congress of not stopping it and using the illegal migrants as its vote bank. 

Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are coming here (to campaign for the Assam Assembly elections) ... I challenge the Congress president to say she will stop Bangladeshi infiltration ... She won't say it.

"Congress is using the Bangladeshi infiltrators as its vote bank," Shah told a poll rally here. The infiltration problem would end in Assam once a BJP government is formed here, he said, adding, We will seal the Bangladesh border and no infiltrator will be able to step in here.

"Bangladeshi infiltration problem is not only of Assam but of the entire country, he said. I want to ask Rahul Gandhi where was Assam put by Congress at the time of Independence and Partition ? Jawaharlal Nehru had put Assam as Category D state," Shah said contending that Mahatma Gandhi and Gopinath Bordoloi(Assams first chief minister) kept Assam within India.

During the Chinese aggression in the 1960s it was Nehrus responsibility to stand with his soldiers and the people of Assam but he addressed the nation over All India Radio saying 'good bye Assam, good bye Assam'. The Indian soldiers fought bravely and kept Assam within the Indian map, he said.

PTI
CPI(M) condemns Lahore terror attack

India

oi-PTI

New Delhi, Mar 28: Condemning the "heinous" Lahore terror attack, CPI(M) today urged Pakistan authorities to act against the "religious extremists" resorting to such violence.

"This attack was particularly heinous as perpetrators have themselves claimed that they targeted the Christian community who had gone to the park on Easter Sunday. "The religious extremists who are resorting to such terrorist violence have to be put down firmly by the Pakistani authorities," the party said in a statement.

At least 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed, while 300 others were injured when a suicide bomber blew himself up in the capital of Pakistan's Punjab province.

The responsibility of the brutal attack by a suicide bomber was claimed by Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

PTI
Jayalalithaa DA case: Hearing continues in SC tomorrow

India

oi-Vicky

Bengaluru, March 28: Hearing on the J Jayalalithaa disproportionate assets case will continue before the Supreme Court on Tuesday. During the last date of hearing, special public prosecutor, B V Acharya was making his concluding arguments regarding the case.

Karnataka has gone in appeal against the verdict of the Karnataka High Court which while reversing the trial court verdict, acquitted the Tamil Nadu chief minister and three others.

Jayalalithaa DA case: Sasikala floated fabricated companies and deposited unaccounted cash

Once Acharya concludes his arguments, Jayalalithaa would respond through her counsel regarding the allegations made by Karnataka. Among the various points raised by Acharya one was relating to the diversion of unaccounted money.

He narrated to the Bench comprising Justices Pinaki Chandra Ghose and Amitava Roy that the co-accused in the case, Sasikala Natrajan, Ilavarasi and Sudhakaran floated 52 companies most of them in one day with an intention of diverting unaccounted money.

Acharya had pointed out to the Bench that there were several fake companies that had been floated with an intention of diverting the unaccounted money. This money was in turn used to purchase assets which were disproportionate in nature.

Accounts had been opened in the Abhiramapuram branch of the Indian bank and there are at least 330 entries to show that amounts exceeding Rs 50,000 were deposited, Acharya also contended.

Money was taken to the banks in suitcases and deposited. There is enough evidence to show that all this was done at the insistence of Sasikala Natrajan. Acharya also accused her of floating various companies through which they purchased properties.

Jayalalithaa DA case: How did this newspaper without advertisements raise money?

All this material has been carefully considered by the trial court, but the high court reversed the order of conviction without proper consideration, Acharya also argued.

He further argued that documents had been fabricated. Acharya repeatedly pointed out to a sum of Rs 14 crore which had been claimed by Jayalalithaa and others to be the subscription amount from the newspaper, Namathu MGR.

Documents had been created in a bid to show that the money that had been received was under the subscription scheme of the newspaper, Acharya also argued.

He also went on to state that the newspaper had no subscription scheme. Further he noted that it is hard to believe that such a huge amount had been raised through a newspaper which also did not have any advertisements.

OneIndia News
Kashif Jaan is the link between the Pathankot attack and Jaish-e-Mohammad

India

oi-Vicky

New Delhi, March 28: India had said since day one that it is convinced that the Pathankot air base attack was carried out by the dreaded Jaish-e-Mohammad. The outfit headed by Maulana Masood Azhar thrives on a hate India policy and the Pathankot attack was another way of conveying that message.

When the NIA holds discussions with the Joint Investigation Team from Pakistan, it would place before a bit of crucial evidence which provides the direct link between the attack and the Jaish-e-Mohammad. The link is an operative called Kashif Jaan.

Who is Kashid Jaan and what is his role?

Kashif Jaan was in fact the operative who dropped the attackers off at the Indo-Pak border before they made their advent into the Pathankot air force station. The terrorists after entering India had called Jaan and the tracking of the call found that his location was Shakagarh Tehsil in Narowal, Pakistan.

Further the NIA had also tracked 16 more calls that were made to Jaan.

There was also a call made to Jaan after the terrorists had entered the air force station. The NIA says that they will seek out more details regarding Jaan from the JIT and are hopeful that the information will be provided.

Jaan is a senior operative of the Jaish-e-Mohammad. His name finds a mention in several dossiers that have been prepared by the Intelligence Bureau. Jaan is a trusted aide of both Masood Azhar and his brother Rauf. Moreover Jaan is part of the core planning committee of the Jaish-e-Mohammad and is roped in for every major event.

Once the evidence is shared with the JIT, they would need to provide more information regarding Jaan. The conversations that Jaan would have had with Azhar and Rauf would also be necessary to further nail the Jaish-e-Mohamamd link to the attack.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 10:05 [IST]
Untouched and undamaged: Pakistan govt denies reports of mob attack on Nankana Sahib

Take care of your minorities first: India slams Pakistan

Khalistan terrorist Happy PhD killed due to illicit affair with married Muslim woman in Lahore

News flash: Gunshots heard at US Capitol in Washington.

India

oi-Oneindia

By Oneindia Staff Writer

Bengaluru, March 28: President Pranab Mukherjee to present Padma awards today at a Civil Investiture Ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Get all the latest news updates of the day:

12: 44 am: U.S. Capitol Police officer shot, not seriously wounded: Reports

12:38 am: 'Gunshots' heard at US Capitol in Washington.

9:33 pm: Brussels attacks: The mortal remains of Infosys employee Raghavendran is in the process of being handed to the family. It will be taken to India from Amsterdam airport.

9:00 pm: Infosys employee Raghavendra Ganesh, who was missing after Brussels attacks died in the terror attack, the Indian embassy in Belgium has confirmed.

8:56 pm: JIT Pak arrived at NIA HQ today, they met the DG & officers assctd with investigation of Pathankot: IG NIA.

8:48 pm: 2nd tranche of 50 declassified files related to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose will be released on Tuesday.

8: 38 pm: Want Pak JIT to probe properly,punish the guilty: Son of Havaldar Kulwant Singh who lost his life in Pathankot attack.

8:20 pm: Belgium releases Brussels attack suspect Faycal Cheffou, says suspicions not substantiated: Prosecutors (AFP)

8:05 pm: We want to make Bharat (India) rich, free from exploitation and full of self-respect: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat.

7:38 pm: Congress & its supported govt, dismissed more than 90 elected non-congress state govts, now they are crying foul: Naidu.

7.23 pm: Indian cricket team arrives in Mumbai, ahead of semi finals match against West Indies on March 31 (Thursday) WT20.

7.22 pm: 9 rebel Cong MLAs file plea in Uttarakhand HC against Speaker's decision to disqualify them from Assembly. Court to hear matter tomorrow.

7.21 pm: Dog aficionado from Bengaluru imports a male & female Korean Dosa Mastiff from China, paying around $150000 each.

7.07 pm: We have increased the limits for foreign investment in stock exchanges and have allowed them to be listed, says PM Modi at Bloomberg Economic Summit.

7.06 pm: Pakistan JIT will come back from Pathankot tomorrow evening, will meet NIA in Delhi on Wednesday again.

7.05 pm: We are focusing on creating durable assets that benefit the population rather than touts, says PM Modi at Bloomberg Economic Summit.

6.35 pm: Let's work towards resolution, instead of confrontation. Let's together build bridges than walls in this university, says VC of Hyderabad University.

6.15 pm: The decision to impose President's rule in Uttarakhand has been taken undemocratically, says Nitish Kumar, Bihar CM.

6.00 pm: A petition challenging the admission of the Jayalalithaa DA case in the Karnataka High Court has been filed in the Supreme Court. The petition filed by an advocate has been ordered to be clubbed with the main appeal of the case.

5.40 pm: LDF seat allocation for Kerala assembly polls: CPM- 92, CPI- 27, JDS-5, NCP-4, Kerala Cong Democratic-4, Indian National League- 3, Others-5

5.35 pm: Pakistan JIT members leave NIA headquarters.

5.15 pm: RSS is holding a public meeting in Lucknow today but I am not granted permission for the same, says Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM

4.44 pm: A delegation of Congress MPs will meet President tomorrow, says Former HM Sushil Shinde on HCU issue

4.35 pm: Belgian police release new video footage of third airport suspect.

4.12 pm: Hyderabad local Court grants bail to all accused on one time surety of Rs 5000. They also have to appear before police station once a week.

4.00 pm: I am sure that PM would have some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of nuclear security summit, says Vikas Swarup, MEA.

3.40 pm: Congress plea in Uttarakhand High court. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to appear for the Centre tomorrow.

3.15 pm: Pakistan's JIT members again arrive at NIA HQ in Delhi.

3.00 pm: Hearing on Congress plea in Uttarakhand High Court challenging President's Rule in the state to continue tomorrow.

2.54 pm: NIA is investigating. They (JIT) are only allowed access to the place where crime took place. The area is cordoned off, says Manohar Parrikar.

2.50 pm: No permission has been granted to the Pakistan's JIT to visit Pathankot airbase, says Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.

2.15 pm: We went to present two memorandums signed by 34 MLAs to Governor, says Harish Rawat after meeting Uttarakhand Governor

2.00 pm: ACB files charge sheet in Special Court against Chhagan Bhujbal and 6 others in the Central Library case.

1.55 pm: Modi wants to be dictator, he wants to rule all states. We will not allow it to happen in Assam, says CM Tarun Gogoi.

1.38 pm: We hope that when Indian team goes to Pakistan for investigation, they are also shown same cooperation and coordination, says BJP on Pathankot operation.

1.26 pm: Tripura Congress alleges that CM Manik Sarkar is indirectly or directly involved in murder of former state health minister Bimal Sinha.

1.15 pm: Harish Rawat along with Congress MLAs arrive to meet Governor KK Paul at Raj Bhawan in Dehradun.

1.00 pm: The Congress Government of Uttarakhand was murdering democracy every day from the 18th of March till the 27th of March, says Arun Jaitley.

12.45 pm: Ex-DG CRPF Prakash Mishra and former Union Culture Secretary Ravindra Singh appointed advisers to Uttarakhand Governor,to assume office on Monday, March 28.

12.30 pm: Harish Rawat along with Congress MLAs to meet Governor KK Paul at Raj Bhawan shortly in Dehradun.

12.23 pm: Senior Journalist Pushpesh Pant receives the Padma Shri award from President Pranab Mukherjee.

12.22 pm: Scientist Onkar Nath Srivastava receives the Padma Shri award from President Pranab Mukherjee.

12.10 pm: National Film Awards for Best cinematography to Sudeep Chatterjee for Bajirao Mastani.

12.05 pm: Rocket attack on new parliament building in Kabul.

12.00 pm: PM Narendra Modi and senior BJP leader LK Advani at the Padma Awards ceremony.

11.50 am: President Pranab Mukherjee presents the Padma Vibhushan to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

President Mukherjee presents the Padma Vibhushan to Sri Sri Ravi Shankar pic.twitter.com/aabTKbzxAS  ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2016

11.42 am: Kangana Ranaut clinches her 3rd National Award for 'Tanu Weds Manu Returns'.

11.25 am: 63rd National Film Awards announced; 'Baahubali' wins Best Film of the year award.

10.50 am: The Joint Investigation Team from Pakistan has arrived at the office of the National Investigation Agency in New Delhi to discuss the Pathankot attack probe.

10.25 am: Harish Rawat calls a meeting of Uttarakhand Congress MLAs.

10.04 am: Chairpersons of the three Juries hand over list of 63rd National Film awardees to I&B Minister Arun Jaitley in Delhi

Delhi: Chairpersons of the three Juries hand over list of 63rd National Film awardees to I&B Minister Arun Jaitley pic.twitter.com/LO1EozJfYe  ANI (@ANI_news) March 28, 2016

9.35 am: Congress to move High Court against imposition of President's rule in Uttarakhand: Sources.

9.20 am: Air India flight makes emergency landing at Mumbai airport due to smoke in undercarriage, passengers safe: ANI

8.50 am: 1 dead and 5 injured after a drunk doctor rammed his Mercedes car in 6 other cars in Bengaluru.

8.40 am: Congress to move High Court today against President's rule in Uttarakhand.

8.15 am: Chairpersons of the three Juries to announce the 63rd National Film Awards today.

7.55 am: Pakistan's Joint Investigation Team to visit NIA Headquarters in Delhi today.

OneIndia News
Russian embassy takes up with MEA detention of its ship in Cochin

Two Indians missing in Kenya since July; govt in touch with Kenyan authorities: MEA

Parrikar says MEA told to help spy arrested by Pak

India

oi-Oneindia

By OneIndia Defence Bureau

Goa, March 28: Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday that a former Indian Navy officer arrested by Pakistan on spying charges would get all possible help. Addressing a media conference during DefExpo, Parrikar said Commander Kulbhushan Jadhav (Retd) would get all possible help via the Ministry of External Affairs.

Though he started on a lighter note that the retired Navy man 'would benefit from the OROP,' Parrikar was quick to back the case of the man, now under Pakistan custody.

"He will get our full back-up," the minister said.

On another query on whether the Pakistan probe team would be given access to Pathankot Air Force base, Parrikar said: "We have not given permission. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is being given the responsibility to conduct the probe. They will decide about the probe."

He said it would be completely NIA's call to decide on the probe plan. "I have asked them to clear the crime scene. It is blocked visually and under the complete control of NIA now," the minister said.

Here are the other key points of Parrikar's press conference.

LCA: The IAF needs more Tejas platforms to form Squadrons. Tejas Squadrons will be formed next year. I am also open to the idea of exporting it, subject to getting all clearances on security concerns.

DPP: The Defence Procurement Procedure will be given a fresh look after six months, if need be. The Strategic Partnership (SP) model in DPP will be send to the Council of Ministers within three months.

Rafale: The deal is important and we are seriously pursing it. I cannot give any timeframe when we will take a final call.

Make in India: The DPSUs, DRDO, OFBs will have to play a big role.

Chinese aggression: We are talking with them. The hotlines are up and working. Confidence-building measures are the key.

IAF preparedness: We are well prepared. It is not the number of aircraft that must be looked into when deciding upon preparedness. There are other forces too that would come in aid during war. These are strategic issues.

Dhanush: The OFB had given three guns for trials (to Indian Army) and there were some concerns. A total of 114 Dhanush guns will be ordered. The total potential is for 414 guns.

DefExpo: A small section opposed and were floating misinformation. It happens in Goa. It had happened earlier as well. The team has put up a great show. Many huge structures have come up on the last 20 days.

OneIndia News
108-foot statue of Kempegowda to be unveiled by PM in Karnataka: Basavaraj Bommai

PM Narendra Modi leaves for Brussels on March 29

India

oi-PTI

New Delhi, Mar 28: A week after the deadly terror bombings in Brussels, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave for the Belgian capital on Tuesday night as part of a three-nation tour during which he will attend the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington and visit Saudi Arabia.

In Brussels, Modi will attend the long-pending India-EU summit. He will also hold a bilateral summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel where ways to deal with terrorism will form a "very important part".

The India-EU Summit is aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two sides which are likely to deliberate on ways to finalise the free trade agreement.

(March 22 terror attack to figure in Modi's Brussels meet)

The last Summit had taken place in 2012. India-EU ties witnessed some strain after the 28-member bloc had not responded to New Delhi's proposal for a brief visit by Modi to Brussels, the EU headquarters, during his trip to France, Germany and Canada in April last year.

"The attacks in Brusels, of course, will be a very important part of the discussions. In fact, it will be the starting point of the talks," Joint Secretary (Europe) Nandini Singla, told reporters.

In Brussels, Modi will meet top businessmen, including a delegation of diamond traders, and will also address the Indian diaspora.

He will also meet Parliamentarians and a delegation of indologists, separately. Antwerp in Belgium is the largest diamond trading hub globally as about 84 per cent of the world's rough diamonds passes through there.

There is a sizeable presence of Indian traders in Antwerp. From Brussels, Modi will leave for Washington to attend the 4th Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) on March 31 and April 1 where he will be making some specific announcemnents and proposals with regard to nuclear security.

India will submit a national progress report on nuclear security at the summit, which is also expected to deliberate on ways to tackle nuclear terrorism.

Asked whether Modi will meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Washington, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup did not give a direct answer and only said it was usual for leaders to meet their counterparts on the margins of international meets.

From Washington, Modi will travel to Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh on April 2 for a two-day visit at the invitation of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

PTI
After Hyderabad, JNU's Kanhaiya Kumar extends support to Pune students

India

oi-PTI

Pune, Mar 28: JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar today accepted an invitation extended by a students' group in the city to take part in a discussion here. He also expressed solidarity with the students and called RSS and its affiliates as "anti-constitutional".

Speaking to media over the phone during a press conference organised by All India Students Federation and other organisations here, Kumar assured the students from Ranade Institute (Pune University's journalism college), Fergusson College and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) that he will go to any city where students' rights were being suppressed and will stand by them.

"I express my solidarity and support for students community who have been fighting in Pune," he said during his brief phone conversation with reporters here. The situation in the country is very serious as the government is trying to snatch away the rights and freedom of students, he said.

"We have to get united against forces like RSS, ABVP and Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) to safeguard the democratic values and Constitution. ABVP, BJYM are the sections of RSS and are anti-Constitutional and against the judicial system, and trying to suppress students' voice in India," he said.

After the fracas at Fergusson College here during an ABVP-organised discussion on 'Truth of JNU', wherein a BJYM leader allegedly threatened the students of Ranade Institute that they would be thrashed if they invited Kumar, students from these two institutes and those from FTII came together and formed a joint forum to invite Kumar here. Dates of Kumar's visit would be soon decided, local AISF members said.

PTI
SC dismisses plea against Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen

India

oi-PTI

New Delhi, Mar 28: The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a plea seeking deportation of controversial Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasreen and cancellation of her visa given by the Indian government.

"Do you think that we do not have any other work to do", a bench comprising Chief Justice T S Thakur and Justice U U Lalit said while dismissing an appeal filed by an NGO against a Delhi High Court order on the case.

The bench was hearing the appeal filed by NGO 'All India Human Rights and Social Justice Front' seeking cancellation of Nasreen's visa alleging that she has been violating the Foreigners Order of 1948 and the Foreigners Act of 1946 by airing her views on every issue without prior permission.

Nafis Ahmad Siddiqui, lawyer and President of the NGO, said Nasreen, who is living in exile since 1994, has been making controversial statements, besides doing professional work here.

The authorities are granting Nasreen the visa for a period beyond 180 days which is not permissible, he claimed. Earlier, the High Court had dismissed the PIL of the NGO on the issue saying there was no public interest in the matter. The appeal was filed in the apex court.

PTI
Fact Check: Images falsely shared with claim that it is chopper that crashed in Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand crisis: What to expect and understanding the legal position

India

oi-Vicky

New Delhi, Mar 28: One could expect a lot of activity in Uttarakhand following the imposition of President's rule in the state.

For starters, the Congress has decided to approach the Supreme Court of India challenging the decision to impose president's rule in the state.

The BJP states that it enjoys the support of nine rebel Congress MLAs and this automatically gives them the right to form a government.

There is a debate however that is on with regard to the timing of the disqualification of the rebel MLAs. The legal position states that if the MLAs were disqualified after the imposition of the President's rule then the order will not stand. However if the order was passed before the imposition of President's rule then it would stand.

If the order of disqualification stands, then the majority mark in the reduced house of 61 would be 31. The BJP would then need the support of 6 MLAs to form the government. The BJP would ride then on the support of six PDF MLAs.

President's Rule imposed in Uttarakhand

The legal position:

A president's rule is imposed under Article 356 when there is a breakdown of the Constitutional machinery and the government cannot function.

Although there is no clear explanation as to what a breakdown would mean, it is mandatory that the strength of any government needs to be tested on the floor of the house as per the findings in the S R Bommai case.

The other aspects to be taken into consideration are the report by the governor. However the President can also take a decision to impose President's rule if he is convinced that the machinery has broken down.

There are two case laws which have dealt extensively with such situations- S R Bommai and the Bihar Assembly case of 2006.

Political crisis remain in Uttarakhand

In the S R Bommai case, the Supreme Court in 1994 held that a President's rule can be imposed if there is a breakdown of the Constitutional machinery in the state. The court however also added that the strength of a government must be tested on the floor of the house.

Further it also stated that courts cannot question the Union Cabinet's advice to the President but they can question the material behind the satisfaction of the President who would decide on the breakdown of the constitutional machinery.

In the Bihar case of 2006, the Supreme Court while dealing with the powers of the Governor in recommending president's rule said that the report cannot be taken at face value. The report of a governor must be verified by a council of ministers.

Further it said that President's rule cannot be imposed as per the whims and fancies of of a governor and the council of ministers must carefully examine such a report and not accept it as a gospel truth on face value.

OneIndia News

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 9:36 [IST]
Belgium terror suspect held in Italy refuses to speak

International

oi-PTI

Rome, Mar 28: An Algerian held in Italy as part of a probe into fake ID documents used by the Paris and Brussels attackers was interrogated but refused to answer questions, a judicial source said.

The suspect, named as Djamal Eddine Ouali, 40, was detained under a European arrest warrant near the southern city of Salerno on Saturday, and questioned yesterday in prison by prosecutors, the judge in charge of the preliminary enquiry said.

Belgium presses manhunt after new plot revealed

Salerno police chief Alfredo Anzalone said he was confident Ouali's extradition to Belgium would be approved. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for Friday.

Ouali was held on Saturday evening at a bus stop in a joint swoop involving anti-terrorism officers and a police special operations unit in the town of Bellizzi, an area with a large population of transient seasonal workers, many from North Africa.

Belgium had issued a European arrest warrant for Ouali, suspected of being part of a criminal network that produced fake documents for illegal immigration. Brussels prosecutors said the network is thought to have supplied fake ID documents to some of the Islamic State attackers behind the November terror assaults in Paris that killed 130 people.

Belgium's Muslims vow to fight radicalisation after attacks

The false papers were "probably" also used by Salah Abdeslam, the sole surviving Paris attacks suspect, they said. The probe was still determining whether the same network also produced documents for those behind the March 22 attacks in Brussels that killed 31.

Suspicions were raised after Italian immigration officials checked Ouali's residency permit. Police had been searching for a man with the same name linked to the suspected network since January 6.

Hundreds of digital photographs were then seized from a counterfeiter's workshop, including three of those who planned the attacks in Paris. One of those photographed was Najim Laachraoui, a suicide bomber at Brussels airport, reports quoted police as saying.

PTI
In the Lahore attack, there is a loud message from the ISIS

Lahore blast: Pakistan in mourning, Sharif vows to avenge the attack

Lahore blast: Here is what Donald Trump said after explosion

Obama calls Sharif to condole loss of lives in Lahore attack

Lahore blast: Indians express solidarity with Pakistan

International

oi-Jagriti

New Delhi, Mar 28: People in India expressed their solidarity with Pakistan after deadly explosion hit a recreational park in Lahore.

At least 72 people including children, women were killed and around 300 injured after a suicide bomber blew himself up at parking area in the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park on Sunday.

#PrayForLahore became one of the top trending topics on Monday. #IndiawithPakistan was also used by some users.

The park was overcrowded as Christians were celebrating Easter with funfair in the premises when the blast took place.

Bollywood actors like Sonakshi Sinha, Siddharth Malhotra expressed their grief over the terror attack in Lahore.

Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai condemns Lahore explosion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif and offered his "deep condolences" to the victims of the terror attack in Lahore park that left at least 72 dead, mostly women and children.

The responsibility of the brutal attack by a suicide bomber was claimed by Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

What has our world come to. We still living in a world of war.text books need to be revised every year with a new history.#PrayForLahore  Esha Gupta (@eshagupta2811) March 27, 2016

A human dies when you attack a person. Humanity dies when you attack a child. #PrayForLahore pic.twitter.com/5Qa4pYrCCv  Lucas (@LHWCM_LFC93) March 28, 2016

Anger, disgust...Whats the point of these senseless acts of violence? Condolences and prayers to the people of Pakistan! #PrayForLahore  Sonakshi Sinha (@sonakshisinha) March 28, 2016

My Thoughts and prayers to the families of #Lahore deeply upsetting and sad,Stop these Horrific senseless attacks !#PrayForLahore  Sidharth Malhotra (@S1dharthM) March 28, 2016

I pray that hope, love ,peace and light will be brought to places darkened by violence...#PrayForLahore #PrayForBrussels  Ali Asgar (@kingaliasgar) March 28, 2016

Once again cowards strike, killing innocents in their dastardly crusade. #PrayForLahore  Sagarika Ghose (@sagarikaghose) March 28, 2016

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 15:35 [IST]
My party-BJP have different ideologies but common aim of uplifting poor: Nepal ex-PM Prachanda

Former Nepal PM says removed from office for including Kalapani

Nepalese PM hails fruitful China visit

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Kathmandu, March 28: Nepalese Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli, who arrived home on Sunday, March 28 after a week-long official visit to China, has said that his visit was fruitful toward shaping a long-term framework on enhancing bilateral economic cooperation.

The prime minister said that his visit to China was aimed at boosting bilateral ties and building mutual trust and understanding on a range of areas.

"My visit has further enhanced political and economic relations with China. I had cordial and fruitful discussions with the top Chinese leadership regarding growing cooperation on various areas such as infrastructure development, investment, tourism, trade, transit transport and energy among others," Oli told a press conference in Kathmandu.

He also said that the government has given top priority to its relationship with neighbouring countries.

Oli said the visit was highly successful in terms of taking bilateral relationship to a greater height.

He also noted that the 15-point joint statement issued by the two governments in Beijing is a guideline for further promoting bilateral relationship in the days to come.

Major agreements and memorandums of understanding reached during the visit will help enhance the close economic cooperation between the two countries, the prime minister said.

IANS
No need for massive new strikes on Ukraine: Vladimir Putin

'If NATO clashes with Russian army, it will lead to global catastrophe,' says Putin

Putin congratulates Syria for Palmyra success

International

oi-IANS

By Ians English

Moscow, March 28: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for re-taking the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra.

"In a telephone conversation with Syrian president, Putin congratulated his counterpart on the liberation of the city of Palmyra from terrorists and noted the importance of preserving this unique historic site for the world culture," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Assad thanked Putin for the assistance of Russian air groups, noting that "such successes as liberation of Palmyra would be impossible without Russia's support."

Meanwhile, Putin reaffirmed that Russia would continue supporting Syrian authorities in the anti-terrorism fight, despite withdrawal of Russia's main air forces contingent, which started March 15 after Russia's anti-terror airstrike campaign of over five months in Syria at the request of Assad.

Syria's Palmyra city fell to militants of the Islamic State (IS) extremist group in May last year and the Syrian army started a broad offensive to recapture it several days ago.

Palmyra contains the monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world.

A statement of Syrian army said the recapture of the ancient city took place with the help of the Russian and Syrian air force.

Russian Defence Ministry earlier said 40 sorties around Syria's city of Palmyra were conducted by Russian aircraft in the past 24 hours, hitting 117 military objects of terrorists.

In another phone call with Irina Bokova, director general of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Putin said that Russian contingent in Syria would help with the mine clearance in Palmyra city.

"The Russian president and the UNESCO director general agreed that UNESCO, Russia and Syria will take necessary measures as soon as possible to evaluate damage done to Palmyra by terrorists and to work out a restoration plan," Tass news agency quoted Peskov as saying.

IANS
Rushdie attack a reminder of how big a threat Iran is to the US, others

Terror will be the new normal in Europe if there is no centralised policy

International

oi-Vicky

Europe, March 28: The biggest threat from the ISIS is to Europe. There have been several write ups which even stated, " are terror attacks the new normal in Europe?" Unless Europe stands united and jointly fights the problem, the scenario could only worsen in the days to come.

First and foremost what Europe lacks is a centralized control of its resources, operations and policy. In the absence of this, an intelligence system cannot function effectively, V Balachandran former officer with the Research and Analysis Wing tells OneIndia.

Centralised control of policy:

Balachandran says that in the Indian system there are legal powers vested with the state police to undertake counter terrorist operations.

While this is far from perfect, the problems are compensated to a certain extent by the presence of the intelligence bureau which has been effectively coordinating counter-terrorist operations all over the country with legal support from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Our foreign policy, which is a necessary ingredient in evolving an effective intelligence strategy, is centralized on foreign threats like the Islamic State.

However in Europe each country arrives at different threat perceptions based on its own foreign and internal policies. While France took part in helping anti-Assad rebels and opposed Russian intervention, EU leadership took an ambivalent position on that issue, much to the chagrin of UK, France and USA.

Post the 9/11 attack the US tried to enlist the Counter Terrorist cooperation of the EU. The US stated that there is a need to ban the Islamic charities. However it found it hard to convince the EU when it came to banning the Hamas and Hezbollah charities since they were both political parties elected by the public.

Balachandran says that these are some of the difficulties faced by Europe and unless and until there is a centralised control of the resources, policy and operations the intelligence system cannot function effectively and the menace of terrorism would continue.

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 9:44 [IST]
Trump has a word of 'advise'; NATO relations need overhauling

International

oi-Pallavi

USA, March 28: Republican Presidential front-runner Donald Trump has a solution for everything...literally? On Sunday, the outspoken candidate of the US Presidential elections called for overhauling the NATO alliance, just days before world leaders convene in Washington.

Hosting the Nuclear Security Summit on Thursday and Friday will be the current US President Barack Obama. 56 delegations will also be in attendance. Trump, in his views said that he would consider letting Japan and South Korea build their own nuclear weapons rather than depend on USA for providing protection against North Korea and China.

He also advised that US should halt oil purchase from Saudi Arabia unless they commit ground troops to fight Islamic State or pay the United States to do so.

Trump's criticism also rendered the NATO obsolete, saying that the 28-country North Atlantic Treaty Organization was set up in a different era when the main threat to the West was the Soviet Union. He said that it is ill-suited for the current time and costs the United States too much.

[Read: US Prez polls: Voter takes result updates in own hand, publish Google Doc amid Hawaiian delays]

Trump's views, however, were contested by Texas Senator Ted Cruz who deemed his views as "catastrophically foolish."

The latter explained,"Abandoning Europe, withdrawing from the most successful military alliance of modern times, it makes no sense at all. It would hand a massive victory to (Russian President Vladimir) Putin, a massive victory to ISIS." Cruz, on the other said that if he was elected the President, he would "bomb the IS into oblivion".

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Story first published: Monday, March 28, 2016, 13:06 [IST]
US Prez polls: Voter takes result updates in own hand, publish Google Doc amid Hawaiian delays

International

oi-Pallavi

Hawaii, March 28: The ever buzzing mainstream media that did not stop voicing their analysis over the primary elections, went numb when Bernie Sanders swept a full round of Caucuses, defeating front-runner Hillary Clinton in all three of the day's presidential contests.

Surprisingly, the news still flew in, thanks to the Internet. Unidentified voters took the electoral process in their own hands. A Google document- go-to source for the caucus results-was built by a few strangers. And the document projected the victory by Bernie Sanders, as the mainstream media waited on stalling, caucus organizers.

When the mainstream media was yet to gather details of the win, Alec Salisbury compiled his own set of stats from his computer in his Ithaca College dorm and posted the results. "It's been a very hectic 15 hours since the caucus results started coming in from WA, HI, and AK. I was ecstatic to see how incredibly close our projections came to the official results. It was amazing interacting and collaborating with like-minded voters from all across the country," said Salisbury after the final projections were broadcast by the media.

The party workers owe the delay to the sudden surge in the number of voters at various polling stations in the closing hours. It is said that some of the party followers were residents of internment camps or had migrated to Hawaii. But they joined in numbers to bolster the party's chances of winning against Donald Trump.

[Read: Trump effigy set ablaze in Mexico Easter ritual]

Incidentally, the surge, if compared to the 2008 Caucus when then-senator Obama was running against Hillary Clinton for the presidential post, was much higher.

However, workers also owe the delay to party leadership's decision not to release partial results.

A true Sanders supporter, Salisbury said that he had been treated unfairly, especially when he did not get as much coverage like that of Clinton and Republican front-runner Trump. Speaking of the results, he said,"No one has really commented on the accuracy because no one really knows how accurate it is. Many are grateful online. They're happy to have some idea of what might happen."

[Read: US presidential polls 2016: Hillary Clinton's campaign looks nervous after Sanders's big wins?]

He further added that gathering the results wan't too difficult as he and his cohorts scrolled through Tweets with caucus-related hashtags.

[Read: Bernie Sanders crushes Hillary Clinton in Alaska, Washington, Hawaii caucuses]

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A man who is well known in Oghara community of Delta State left the residents in shock when he took his own life by jumping into a well.

The body of the man was retrieved from the well which he had jumped into in an attempt to take his life by the youths.

We gathered that the deceased cannot be buried as the nature of his death was seen as a taboo in the community. His body was reportedly disposed off.

The reason for the suicide is yet to be ascertained as at the time of filing this report.

Watch the video below:
Lagos State Government says it has ordered investigation into the death of a child, and allegations of patients poaching by some doctors from the state General Hospitals to their private clinics.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris, also said that the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) had shut private hospital, HJ Clairoowen Medical Centre and Maternity where the child allegedly died.

According to Idris, investigations are ongoing on the operations of the facility whose documents showed that it has not been registered with HEFAMAA or certified for the purpose of healthcare delivery.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this followed a March 27 publication by Mr Adeola Adetunji, accusing a doctor at the Alimosho General Hospital, Igando, of professional misconduct

Adetunji had sought justice following the death of his 15-month-old twin daughter, Taiwo Adetunji, at the private clinic in Lagos.

He had alleged that the private clinic was owned by a paediatrician, who also is an employee of the state government working at the General Hospital, Igando.

The ministry will make known its findings in due course and mete out appropriate sanctions to anyone found culpable in the unfortunate incident.

We will like to assure citizens of our resolve to continuously address the issue of patient poaching and ensure that residents have unfettered access to quality healthcare service without exploitation.

As a government, the wellbeing of citizens is of utmost importance to us and this is the main thrust of our social contract with the people.

The Lagos State Government is a responsible and responsive government, and we will not rest on our oars to ensure that justice in this case is served without let or hindrances, he said.

The commissioner urged members of the public not to patronise any health facility not bearing the HEFAMAA logo.

He also urged the public to channel complaints and petitions in respect of unprofessional conducts by healthcare providers or health facilities to the HEFAMAA Office, Room 514 Ministry of Health, Alausa, Ikeja.

We wish to also note that it is against the norm and highly unethical for general hospitals or any government health facilities to refer patients or cases to private health facilities.

The general public is therefore to take note of this and report any health worker or government facility who indulge in this unprofessional act, Idris said.

In its reactions, the State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), has called for an improvement of the countrys hospital referral system, saying it was key to patient management.

Its Chairman, Dr Saliu Oseni, said: The attention of NMA, Lagos has been drawn to a publication by Mr Adeola Adetunji who alleged professional misconduct by one of our members at the Alimoso General Hospital, Igando.

Though, the association has yet to receive an official complaint from the victim, it will be inhumane to ignore such weighty allegation especially as it involves loss of life.

We are aware of the pain this irreparable loss has caused the family.

The case is already being investigated by a panel set up by the state government and the association is following the events with keen interest.

This event has once again reminded us of many inadequacies in our health sector begging for urgent review.

Our referral system must be improved upon, simplified and made known to the public as patient referral remains a key part of patient management. 

The chairman said that the association would ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident was unravelled.

According to him, the case is being investigated by a panel set up by the state government and the association is following the events with keen interest.

He, however, called on the general public to continue to have faith in the health sector.

Justice will not only be done, but shall be seen by all to have been done as the association believes strongly in professionalism, he said.
Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State on Friday declared that he never regarded the defeated governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic party, Prof. Kolapo Olusola-Eleka as an enemy.

Rather, he said the major opposition party was free to challenge his victory at any stage of the court, and make useful suggestions for smooth running of his government.

Fayemi, however, said Eleka and the PDP were free to challenge his victory at the Supreme Court, in spite of his readiness to entertain contributions from the main opposition party.

The governor spoke in Ado Ekiti on Friday at a programme tagged Meet Your Governor.

Fayemi stated that he had never perceived Eleka as an arch enemy in spite of the petition he filed against his victory in the July 14, 2018 poll.

I have never seen Prof Olusola Eleka as an enemy, but I have been seeing him as a co- contestant, so we wont shy from approaching him to seek his advice on any issue we feel he could be of help for smooth running of our government.

 But this should not be misinterpreted to mean that we are trying to prevent him from seeking justice up to the supreme court; he is free to challenge us.

The Appeal Court, on Thursday delivered its judgment, declaring that PDP has no evidence of rigging against us, so we are not afraid of being challenged.

On the just concluded presidential, National and state assembly elections, which APC won wholesomely in the state, Fayemi denied the allegation that federal might and money were deployed to muzzle the opposition in the polls

 If you look at the outcome of the results, there was no local government where opposition did not score at least 30 percent in all the 16 local government areas

So, the conduct had been adjudged free, fair and the outcome was credible going by what INEC said, he said.

The governor added that his government would promote technical education to counter the rising unemployment in the state.

We feel that skill acquisition is good in view of what we are experiencing in the labour market.

We must be able to convert our love in education to wealth and that is what we are out to do.

We are also creating knowledge zone to make Ekiti a destination when it comes to knowledge and skills. About 117kms of roads will be constructed to link all the towns within that zone together.

They call it knowledge Park in advanced nations and we are studying how we can pattern our own model after any of the countries that are already practising the policy.

Fayemi added that he was committed to the re-establishment of the abolished Local Council Development Areas, the policy he initiated during his first term.

He said the government would soon conduct council elections in the state to bring development to the grassroots.
Nollywood actress, Cossy Ojiakor teased her fans with a video of herself twerking.

Sharing the video on her IG page, she wrote;

Hahahha am proud of my flaws . I am #ageless  #timeless am just a little girl trying to have fun. I may be 50 sometime  seventy something but in my heart am just 20 something .#bootyclap on point.pls love me just this way #freaky #friday song by @officialxtacy.

However, Tonto Dikeh took to the comment section of the post saying, she sees Cossy winning souls for Christ one day.

Cossy who didnt like that tone, quickly corrected her saying SHE IS A BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN, and she will make Heaven. She also advised Tonto to talk to her good friend the she-male, Bobrisky

See the exchange below;

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Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Bisola Aiyeola has slammed Anto Lecky for claiming the show was scripted by organizers.

Recall that Anto had earlier said on twitter that the voting inconsistencies of the Organizers led to her eviction from the 2018 edition of the show.

Making reference to the fact that she was told to act a script the second time she made her way back into the house made her doubt the authenticity of the shows voting system. Anto Lecky wrote;

You dont have to like me or my 3% fans but you cant tell me there wasnt inconsistencies in the voting data that was presented. Nor can you tell me the show script didnt feed off of public opinion. Its the fact

Reacting to the claims, Bisola stated that one should not bite the finger that fed him or her, she said;

So, are they trying to say that the finalists didnt deserve to make it too the finals??? I personally think they Did and majority of the audience voted Miracle. The Brand has its integrity to protect too and I dont believe they would tamper with voted etc. They should also not forget, that millions of people would maximize just one week in that house. DONT BITE THE FINGER THAT FED YOU JUST COS YOU NO BELLEFUL OOOO.

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A man has been apprehended for allegedly trying to rape a 15-year-old girl in a hotel in Egbeda area of Lagos. The incident happened on Wednesday, March 27th.

It was gathered that the suspect was trying to forcefully have sex with the teenage girl who was running away from abuse at her sisters house and wanted to go to her mothers house.

In a video posted online, the girl narrated how the man offered to help after seeing her on the road early this morning by 5am as he urged her to join him in the hotel.

He told her to have her bath in the hotel and eat something before going to her mothers place when the day breaks well.

The girl who felt uneasy in the hotel room refused to lay on the bed and relax after being told by the suspect to. The girl said she wanted to leave but the man tried to forcefully have his way with her before she shouted and drew the attention of others who nabbed the man.

Watch the video below;

Article source: Gistreel

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Oles at the wheel! Manchester United officially announce that current caretaker manager and former striker, Ole Gunnar Solskjr, has been appointed as the clubs full-time manager on a three-year contract.

Solskjr scored 126 goals in 366 appearances for United between 1996 and 2007 and also managed the clubs reserve team until the end of 2010. He was appointed caretaker manager on 19 December 2018 and won his first eight games in charge on the way to an overall record of 14 victories and two draws in 19 games, amassing more Premier League points than any other club during that time.

From the first day I arrived, I felt at home at this special club, said Solskjr. It was an honour to be a Manchester United player, and then to start my coaching career here. The last few months have been a fantastic experience and I want to thank all of the coaches, players and staff for the work weve done so far. This is the job that I always dreamed of doing and Im beyond excited to have the chance to lead the club long-term and hopefully deliver the continued success that our amazing fans deserve.

Ed Woodward, Executive Vice Chairman, comments: Since coming in as caretaker manager in December, the results Ole has delivered speak for themselves.

More than just performances and results, Ole brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and as a coach, coupled with a desire to give young players their chance and a deep understanding of the culture of the club. This all means that he is the right person to take Manchester United forward.

I want to thank Ole and the coaching team for everything they have done so far and congratulate him on this richly deserved appointment. The fans and everyone at the club are behind him as he looks to take us where we need to be and build the next stage of our history.
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a teacher at Fazir-I-Omar Senior High School in Iwaya, Yaba area of the state for allegedly forcing an 18-year-old pupil, Mary (not real name), to perform oral s*x on him in return for marks.

Speaking with a reporter on Friday, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Mr. Bala Elkana, confirmed that the teacher has been arrested.

He identified the suspect as one Akintunde Ajayi, who is 39 years old. He said, The teachers name is Akintunde Ajayi and he is 39.

Continuing, Elkana said, I must commend The Punch for the detailed report because the information provided therein has helped us.

We moved into action when we read it and we have the said teacher in custody and we are making efforts to find out whether there are other victims in the school, apart from the girl that raised the alarm.

Elkana added that the Police was working with other stakeholders to conduct in-depth investigations into the matter.

In the meantime, a non-governmental organisation which campaigns against s*xual abuse and violence against women, Jewels Hive Initiative, has called on the Lagos State Ministry of Education, the Police and other authorities to ensure that justice prevails in Marys case.

JHIs founder, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Falaiye, said the organisation has rehabilitated the victim and would provide further assistance to her and her family.

Falaiye also demanded the Lagos State Ministry of Education to re-enroll the victim in another school in the state for her to be healed of her trauma.

We have ensured that the victim is getting some help and counsel. We have taken her to a safe place for counselling and therapy. She, her mother and siblings live in a dingy one-bedroomed apartment and we strongly feel that they are not safe, because she is already being shamed and stigmatised.

We will do our best to raise some money to get them a befitting apartment and we demand that the Lagos State Government ensure that the victim is safely re-enrolled in another school and that her molester be made to face the full wrath of the law, Falaiye said.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday issued certificates of return to governor-elect of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, his deputy, Baba Tela, and 31 members-elect of the state House of Assembly in Bauchi.

Presenting the certificates, the National Electoral Commissioner in charge of Bauchi, Gombe and Yobe States, Baba Shettima-Arfo, said the event was historic in the democratic transition of the state.

Mr Shettima-Arfo noted that the process used to be peaceful in Bauchi, but lamented that this time around, there were pockets of violence in few places in the state, which resulted in inconclusive elections in some parts of the state.

He assured that the commission would investigate the circumstances to enable it tackle same during future elections.

The official urged stakeholders in the state to work closely with INEC to enable the commission to excel during future elections.

He commended organisations in the state that contributed towards the success of the last election.

On his part, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), in charge of Bauchi State, Ibrahim Abdullahi, observed that elective positions in the state were keenly contested, describing the situation as a positive development.

Mr Ibrahim assured political actors that the commission would remain an impartial umpire in the discharge of its responsibilities.

In his remarks, the governor-elect, Mr Mohammed, commended INEC for conducting a free and fair election.

He also commended the Bauchi electorate for exhibiting maturity during the polls.

The governor-elect pledged not to betray the confidence reposed in him by the people. He called on all and sundry to join him in developing the state.

Out of 31 House of Assembly members-elect, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has 22, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) got eight while ANPP had one. (NAN)
The management of Guaranty Trust Bank, GTB, has said that it would take every necessary step to resist fraudulent execution of a judgement purportedly gotten by Innoson Motors.

PREMIUM TIMES on Friday reported how the motor company claimed it had been mandated by the court to take over the bank.

GTB and Innoson Motors have for years been locked in a long-running legal tussle over a controversial business deal.

While the bank claimed that the company deployed fraudulent means in its deals, the motor company denies the claim.

The controversy took a new turn Friday when Innoson released a press statement claiming it had an order of the court to take over assets of GTB.

But in its response, Erhi Obebeduo, company secretary of the bank, said the bank would resist any attempt to execute any such illegal or fraudulent execution.

The attention of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (the Bank} has been drawn to statements circulating in the news and social media in respect of purported enforcement of a Judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State at one of its branches in Anambra State, the bank said.

The Bank as a law-abiding corporate citizen is taking all necessary legal steps to address this situation and ensure that no illegal or fraudulent execution is carried out.

It is important to state that the Judgment allegedly in issue is in respect of Garnishee Proceedings against the account of the Nigerian Customs Service Board domiciled with the Bank and not against the Bank as an entity.

GTB assured its customers that all was well and that it remains committed to providing best-in-class customer experience to all its valued Customers.
As the tenure of the eighth National Assembly comes to an end soon, Nigerians are mounting a last-minute pressure on the federal lawmakers to bring an end to budget secrecy in the parliament.

Nigerias National Assembly traditionally hides its budget from the public, despite a relentless nationwide campaign against such practice.

The campaign, tagged #OpenNass, began in 2015.

The current assembly published a breakdown of its budget only once, in 2017, after much pressure from the public through the #OpenNASS campaign.

Nigerians, once again, have taken to the social media to revive the campaign, with the hope that the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, can still abolish the budget secrecy.

Mr Saraki failed in his bid to return to the Senate in the just concluded 2019 election, while Mr Dogara (PDP/ Tafawa Balewa/Bogoro Federal Constituency, Bauchi State) has been re-elected as a member of the House of Representatives for a fourth term.

The #OpenNASS campaign is spearheaded by BudgIT and other civil society organisations in the country.

Skyrocketing Budget

BudgIT said in March on Twitter that between 2003 and 2018, NASS budget skyrocketed from N23.3 billion to N139.5 billion, with zero accountability.

It added, Overall, @nassnigeria has less than 10,000 staff but its yearly allocation is higher than annual budgets of 21 states with more than 4 million people combined.

In 2015 Appropriation Act, a whopping N150 billion was allocated to the National Assembly which consists of 469 members (109 senators and 360 members of the House of Representatives), excluding legislative aides and other workers.

The N150 billion allocated to the National Assembly at that time was enough to fund the capital votes for 20 Ministries, Departments and Parastatals (MDAs), an analysis by PREMIUM TIMES had shown.

BudgIT issued a statement, earlier in March, this year, calling on Mr Saraki and Mr Dogara to take steps to make the budget of the assembly accessible to the public.

Aside from the lawmakers being ranked as worlds top-paid legislators, at public expense, the annual budget of the National Assembly is a one-line statutory transfer which is neither reviewed by any authority nor, at very least, made accessible to the public, thus enabling unbridled corruption, BudgIT said in the statement, signed by its Communications Associate, Shakir Akorede.

At this age of digital governance plus global calls for transparency in public institutions, it is a national disrepute that the parliament has refused to eschew anti-democratic practices, as it continues to bury its yearly allocations under the hallowed chambers.

More disappointing is the fact that, despite Nigerias membership in Open Government Partnership and tons of pledges by Senate President Bukola Saraki to run an open NASS, the National Assembly immediately relapsed into its default setting after a breakdown of the budget was made public in 2017, thanks to public pressure.

Asserting that the 2017 record must be made permanent, we are making a renewed demand from the leadership of the eighth assembly to fully redeem its promise. Starting again with the 2019 budget, a line-by-line breakdown of the NASS allocation must be made public going forward.

It is worth the call that Senate President Bukola Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara should leave behind a great legacy, one that history would never forget, by truly and finally opening NASS, BudgIT said.

Concerned Nigerians

A Twitter user, Franklin Odukwu (@odukwufrank), called on other Nigerians on the social media site to ask @bukolasaraki, @iamekweremadu and their representative at the Senate to open the books on @nassnigeria.

Transparency is the right of all Nigerians, Mr Odukwu said.

Another Twitter user, Adegbite Bolaji (@omoobaadebola) appealed to Mr Saraki to make the budget of the National Assembly public, for posterity sake.

A civil society organisation, EiE Nigeria (@EiENigeria) tweeted that since Mr Saraki was not returning to the Senate, he could use the opportunity to #OpenNASS.

#OpenNASS was what @bukolasaraki campaigned on going for that Senate President post and he got there & forgot power is transient and its always about what legacy one leaves behind.

I asked this question before and I ask again, what would Senate President Saraki be remembered for? said Aisha Yesufu (@AishaYesufu), the co-convener of the BringBackOurGirls (BBOG).

One great deed may at times tend to erase or atone for a million wrongs. Senate President Bukola Saraki @bukolasaraki, this might be one of them. You can #OpenNASS within the next two months that remain of your tenure, said a Twitter user, Bamidele Atiba (@DeleAtiba1).

Another Twitter user, Coker Adeniran (@Deniran1), said many Nigerian politicians were comfortable retiring to the National Assembly because of lack of accountability in the parliament.

If we are going to move forward as a nation, we have to ensure accountability in NASS, and we need to strategically place truthful people there, Mr Adeniran added.

On course

Mr Akorede of BudgIT told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday that the #OpenNASS campaign was making some progress, but that Nigerians need not relent on it.

Mr Akorede said Mr Saraki has given his words that the National Assembly would publish its budget once the 2019 federal budget is passed.

He said Mr Saraki has accepted to have a dialogue session with BudgIT, although no date has been fixed yet.

Our stand remains that the National Assembly before Saraki and Dogara leave, its a promise, they made a promise, and nobody knows who comes in next as Speaker and Senate president.

Before they leave, they should fulfill that promise, they should make the 2018 and 2019 budget of the National Assembly open, and we would be able to take it forward from there with whoever becomes the head of the National Assembly in the next dispensation.

We are now looking at legislation that would compel the National Assembly and, of course, other government agencies to make their annual budget open. But we want the National Assembly to lead by example.

If you are representing the people, the people should be able to know how much you are receiving and how much you are spending, and on what.

It is going to be difficult to achieve accountability if there is no transparency, Mr Akorede said.

Mr Akorede said #OpenNASS is not just about making the National Assembly budget accessible to Nigerians.

The National Assembly, he said, should use electronic voting in their legislative proceedings so that Nigerians could know how each of the federal lawmakers votes on a particular issue before them.

The campaign, he said, is also asking for the National Assembly to avail Nigerians with lawmakers attendance record in the assembly.

Nigerians, in the past, were kept in the dark on how much a senator ends as salary and allowances, until the senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, revealed in March last year that he and his colleagues were receiving N13.5 million monthly as running cost.

Mr. Sani said the running cost did not include a N700,000 monthly consolidated salary and allowances which they also receive.

Nigerians were outraged by the revelations.

The lawmaker, Mr Sani, also spoke on the controversial constituency projects for federal lawmakers.

The constituency project itself is given on a zonal basis and almost every senator will go with a constituency fund of about N200 million, but it is not the cash that is given to you.

You will be told that you have N200 million with an agency of government for which you will now submit projects equivalent to that amount. And it is that agency of government that will go and do those projects for you.

Mr Sani said the process of executing the projects was fraught with fraud.
Title: Becoming Nigerian A Guide,

Author: Elnathan John

Reviewer: Tosin Omoniyi

Number of Pages: 150

Publisher: Cassava Republic

Publication Date: 2019

In the book, Becoming Nigerian A Guide, award-winning author, Elnathan John has succeeded on at least three fronts: Taking a deep look at the Nigerian (physically and metaphorically), highlighting several forms of social malaise plaguing the society by poking mild fun.

He is also proffering subtle solutions on how Nigerians can better improve their image not just locally but globally.

The 150-page book serves as a mirror through which every Nigerian can assess themselves, albeit first humorously, then with deep introspection with the aim of initiating change on the individual and corporate levels.

Elnathan spares no punches when he serves his insightful, at times cruel buffet nay analyses of the various segments of the society with a tinge of humour that at times leaves the reader reeling in mirth.

Virtually every segment of the Nigerian society is taken to the cleaners, literarily. It is a constructive criticism at the end couched in good-natured humour but still scathing at the end.

That is the vintage Elnathan John who has cut himself a formidable niche in the not-too-filled world of Nigerian satirists.

The book, perhaps in sync with the various aspects of the Nigerian life, captures this in several segments: The Spiritual; In Sickness and In Health; Temporal; Working Class, Working Hard; Law and Law Enforcement; Politricking; International Connections; Saviors, Local and International; When In Nigeria. Embedded in all these unique portions are satirical sub-chapters that tell the Nigerian story.

Ironically for a foreigner that looks forward to knowing what it means to practice religion as a Nigerian, perusing through rib-cracking chapters like How to be a pastor; How to worship the Nigerian God and How to fly private to the glory of God will be apt tutorials on the lively subject.

You may perhaps want to know more about how the subject of life-threatening ailments is viewed in Africas most prominent nation. Then all you need to do is to flip to the pages on how to be sick and how to die!

Do you yearn to know about how a typical Nigerian handles meeting and communicates in times of great crisis, or how he or she shows love and treats servants? There are portions for you to concentrate on.

The working class dominates the Nigerian space, no doubt. The author takes the readers through a hair-raising trip into the world of the lower and upper-middle-class in Nigeria.

It gives hands-on tips on how to identify these classes of Nigerians. It also, as an aside, takes you through other engaging tutorials of how to be a Nigerian mechanic in character and action and how to use a business card.

Elnathan does not spare his constituency when he humorously x-rays the Fourth Estate of the Realm and Nigerian Writers, whom the author surmises occupy a pantheon of their own that deserves special knocking.

Even as a journalist, the reviewer is left shaking with barely suppressed laughter as the author, like a surgeon with scalpel gets to work stripping the media profession to its bones, muscles and flesh.

Perhaps, the reader is equally contemplating what it means to be a Nigerian politician in this age and time; ample time should be spent perusing the pages on How to be a politician; How to be a First Lady and of course, How to be an opposition politician.

After reading these portions, religiously, keeping ones mirth in check, it is highly unlikely that one would need any special training or experience to survive, and function well in the murky waters of partisan politics in Nigeria.

Elnathan also rounds off his consuming satire when he takes on other related subject matters such as how to get foreign friends; how to be a good African; how to run a Nigerian NGO; and how to be a black Savior. These portions, while allowing the expected laughter to explode from the reader, also gives room for deep introspection.

He equally has something in the yellow/black designed missive for the foreigner in Nigeria when he gives them tips on how to be an expatriate in Nigerian and how to be a foreign reporter covering Nigerian elections.

The author, with this engaging read, has contributed to the national discourse on how to tackle societal challenges bedevilling Nigeria. While other authors favour the conventional frontal tackle, the author has, in his work has utilised the side tackle engaging the scathing weapon of the universal writer which is satire.

The book could, of course, have been brightened more with humorous pictures and perhaps engaging dialogue but the writer has chosen what works best for him.

Ultimately, with this book, the author has inadvertently been able to gain the attention of the reader and perhaps shown them how the Nigerian God can indeed bless their hustle if they take the timeless tips he is offering in them free of charge (or at least for the cover price).

Nigerias vocal satirist

The author is one of Nigerias well-known contemporary satirists. He has twice been shortlisted for the prestigious Caine Prize for African Writing (2013/15). His writings have been published in Per Contra, Evergreen Review, and The Chronic. His debut novel, Born on a Tuesday won a Betty Trask Award in 2017 and was also shortlisted for the Nigerian Prize for Literature.

He is one of the judges for the Man Booker International Prize.
Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi suffered an agonising defeat with Rotherham United who were pummelled 7-1 by their hosts Derby County in their English Championship clash at the Pride Park on Saturday, Completesports.com reports.

Ajayi who was in action for the Super Eagles in their two games during the recent international break against Seychelles and Egypt was in action for 90 minutes for Rotherham.

The versatile defender has appeared in 39 Championship games for Rotherham United and has scored seven times.

Young Nigerian forward Joshua Kayode was benched in the game. The 18-year-old has not made a competitive appearance for Rotherham first team.

Ambrose Efe who penned a short-term contract with Derby County in February was overlooked once again by the clubs manager Frank Lampard.

Ambrose is yet to make his competitive debut for the Rams.

At the Bet365 Stadium, Ogenekaro Etebo who only returned to Stoke City after the international break on Friday was involved from start to finish in the Potters home draw against Sheffield Wednesday.

Etebo has scored once in 27 Championship appearances for Nathan Jones men.

In another Championship clash, Sammy Ameobi played for 89 minutes in Bolton Wanderers 2-1 away win against Queens Park Rangers at the Loftus Road.

Ameobi who has featured 26 times and scored four goals for Bolton was replaced by Clayton Donaldson a minute from time.

QPR Nigerian forward Eberechi Eze was benched in the game.

By Adeboye Amosu

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As the search for the Ninth Senate President reaches a critical stage, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Sen. Ahmed Bola Tinubu, says that a repetition of what happened in 2015 would not be tolerated in 2019.

He also cautioned those vying for the office of the senate president and speaker house of Reps to be mindful of their actions.

While invariably referring to Senator Ndume and other aggrieved lawmakers who are vying for the post of Speaker and Senate President in the Ninth assembly, Tinubu said that party members should either stay with them or follow them or leave them.

It is either you stay with us or you follow us or you leave, he said.

Party discipline is key, we must be discipline in the party. We were a little careless in 2015. We created the opportunity for serpent to get into our party and that did not allow Nigeria to make the desired progress.

You have seen the result of it and we are not going to allow that to happen again. We are going to respect our party and we are going to apply the whip.

It is either you stay with us or you follow us or you leave. You have the freedom to choose but the freedom does not give you as a minority to go and collaborate and protrude our mandate given to you to another party who was our opposition and who is still our opposition.

We would not take that this time, no matter who you think you are. That is how it is built. Why do you want to deviate from what has been structured? We look at our reward system equally, zone by zone, he said.

Tinubu said that his life as a politician at 67 had been a fulfilling journey.

When I joined politics, there were a lot of uncertainties because it was during the military regime. There were lots of struggles but my concern is about people and the future of my country.

My mother stood by me when I told her then that I was joining politics. She told me to be ready to take all sorts of insults whenever they cross my way. May her soul rest in peace.

The struggle was tough. It created a justice on June 12 election of MKO and some people deserted the camp, the struggle, the spirit.

We have stayed with this struggle. We know democracy is not easy but it is the only system of government that we chose, he said.
The Blues legend lined up with two of the Premier Leagues best players towards the end of his career and now watches them compete for the title

Didier Drogba is not surprised by Mohamed Salahs sublime performances for Liverpool after an unsuccessful spell at Chelsea earlier in his career, although he did not expect fellow ex-Blues man Kevin De Bruyne to make such an impact at Manchester City after his earlier struggles in the Premier League.

The Chelsea legend lined up alongside both Salah and De Bruyne in the latter stages of his career, but the duo were unable to secure regular first-team action at Stamford Bridge at the time.

Salah left Chelsea in 2015 to have a successful loan spell at Fiorentina, before moving to Roma on a permanent deal and then eventually returning to England with Liverpool in 2017, where he has been a huge success.

De Bruyne left Chelsea for Wolfsburg in 2014, after an earlier loan spell at Werder Bremen, and his fine form in the Bundesliga prompted Manchester City to lure him back to the UK.

Drogba has continued to keep an eye on his former team-mates throughout their careers and is pleased to see the duo doing so well now.

When you see those two players, you are very happy to see the way they improved and became leaders in their own teams, Drogba told Goal at Geneva Motorshow  courtesy of Yokohama Tires.

Mo, I am really happy for him. It is going to be an interesting title race, really interesting. They are two different times. Mo wasnt playing much. Now they compare to the guy six or five years later, who has improved and he is playing games every weekend, every game.

So, of course, he is going to score goals. The guy is talented, we saw that in Chelsea, so I am not surprised. We saw it in training, but it was difficult. We had Eden Hazard. You have [other guys]. There was a lot of competition for places. Thats football also.

Credit to him, when he left he proved to everyone that he is a great player. Thats what I like about him. He left, he didnt succeed at Chelsea. He went to Italy, to play, get some more minutes, comes back to the Premier League and now he is killing it.

I think for Kevin, the same thing. He was really young, and in the team, we had all these big names. He decided to go and play. In football, it is straightforward, the more you play, the better you become. The more you can understand the game, the more you can read the game and become confident.

Thats exactly what happened with him. When you have a manager like Guardiola who is helping him to understand and read the game faster, wow, he has become a different player. I dont know, but it is going to be very interesting. I am going to follow it to the end. There will be more things happening for sure.

Post Views: 78
Pope Francis has sent words to President Donald Trump and other anti-immigrant leaders that problems of migration would never be resolved by physical barriers but instead required social justice and correcting the worlds economic imbalances.

Francis, starting a two-day visit to Morocco, also backed Moroccan King Mohammed VIs efforts to spread a moderate form of Islam that promotes inter-religious dialogue and rejects any form of terrorism or violence in Gods name.

In recent months, migration has again risen to the fore of national political debates in a number of North African and European countries and the United States.

U.S. President Donald Trump, has vowed to fulfil his campaign pledge to build a wall along the border with Mexico and on Friday threatened to close the border next week if Mexico did not stop immigrants reaching the United States.

The issue of migration will never be resolved by raising barriers, fomenting fear of others or denying assistance to those who legitimately aspire to a better life for themselves and their families, Francis said at the welcoming ceremony.

We know too that the consolidation of true peace comes through the pursuit of social justice, which is indispensable for correcting the economic imbalances and political unrest that have always had a major role in generating conflicts and threatening the whole of humanity, he said.

Morocco has become a key departure point for African migrants trying to reach Europe after crackdowns that closed or limited routes elsewhere. Italys anti-immigrant interior minister has closed ports to rescue ships run by charity groups.

Francis, who has made defence of migrants and refugees a key part of his preaching, said he was concerned about their frequently grim fate and receiving countries must acknowledge that migrants are forced to leave their homes because of poverty and political upheaval.

From the airport to the city centre, Francis, 82, was driven in a white popemobile on a drizzly day as the 55-year-old king rode beside him standing in a separate vehicle, a vintage black 1969 open-top Mercedes 600 Pullman. At one point, a man rushed towards the kings car but was stopped by guards as the motorcade continued along the street lined with bystanders.

After the arrival ceremony Francis and the king were visiting an institute the monarch founded in 2015 for the training of imams and male and female preachers of Islam.

Morocco, which is nearly 100 percent Muslim, has marketed itself as an oasis of religious tolerance in a region torn by militancy. It has offered training to Muslim preachers from Africa and Europe on what it describes as moderate Islam.

Francis, making the first papal visit to Morocco in 34 years, praised the monarch for providing sound training to combat all forms of extremism, which so often lead to violence and terrorism, and which, in any event, constitute an offense against religion and against God himself.

The king said learning was the only way to combat religious extremism. To tackle radicalism, the solution is neither military no financial; that solution has but one name: education, the king said. What all terrorists have in common is not religion, but rather ignorance of religion.

Post Views: 83
Komfie Manalo, Opalesque Asia: Investors have been looking at the diverse investment landscape in Latin America again, not only since Barack Obama's trip to Argentina last week. Andres Baez, a partner and fund manager to two funds at LW Investment Management, said at the recent Opalesque 2016 LatAm Roundtable that there are at least three things professional investors do not compromise when investing in Latin America. But the number one issue he is looking for when assessing the potential for outperformance are triggers, he said. Baez pointed to Argentina when he offered the following example for a trigger: "We saw that in Argentina almost three years ago when the Supreme Court ruled that Christina Kirchner could not get re-elected, and thats when we invested heavily in Argentina. We went up to 30% of our portfolio in Argentinean corporate and sovereign debt." The second issue that investors are interested for is the rule of law. Baez said that the rule of law is tricky in Latin America. The important thing is, especially when dealing with less-liquid investments, is that investors do not compromise in the structure they want around their investment. "If you cannot get the structure you want for your investment, youre out," he stated. He added that while the rule of law might be tricky in Brazil, it is almost...................... To view our full article Click here
Reprinted from Consortium News

Sen. Bernie Sanders's landslide victories in Washington State, Alaska and Hawaii on Saturday coincided with a long-awaited signal that he may finally be ready to challenge former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on the "Commander-in-Chief" question, which has been regarded as one of her key strengths.

In what may be the most striking campaign commercial of the presidential race, the Sanders campaign released an ad , entitled "The Cost of War" and featuring Hawaii's Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, an Iraq War veteran who endorsed Sanders not just as her preference for President but as Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. military.

"Bernie Sanders voted against the Iraq War," Gabbard says. "He understands the cost of war, that that cost is continued when our veterans come home. Bernie Sanders will defend our country and take the trillions of dollars that are spent on these interventionist, regime change, unnecessary wars and invest it here at home."

Gabbard also counters another strong point of the Clinton campaign, its contention that Clinton's plans for incremental change are more realistic than Sanders's calls for sweeping reforms -- or a "political revolution" -- to reverse the nation's steady drift toward a country of lavishly rewarded haves and increasingly desperate have-nots.

"The American people are not looking to settle for inches; they are looking for real change," Gabbard says. But perhaps her most important statement comes at the end of the 90-second commercial when she says: "My name is Tulsi Gabbard and I support Bernie Sanders to be our next President and Commander-in-Chief."

The phrase "Commander-in-Chief" is one that Sanders has largely sidestepped in the early phases of the Democratic presidential race, conceding Clinton's superior qualifications on foreign policy though questioning her judgment when she voted for the Iraq War in 2002. Yet, what the Gabbard ad seems to recognize is that Sanders's campaign could rally a substantial part of the Democratic "base" and win over many "regular" Democrats by challenging Clinton on her hawkish proclivity for "regime change" wars.

Though many political analysts argue that it is too late for Sanders to overcome Clinton's substantial delegate lead -- bolstered by the unelected "super-delegates" drawn from party politicians -- Sanders's recent string of landslide victories suggest that many Democrats are uncomfortable with or opposed to Clinton, whose "negatives" are among the highest of national political leaders (in a race to the bottom with Donald Trump).

Many Democrats have a deep distrust of Clinton who -- though now highlighting her more "progressive" positions -- seems eager to "pivot to the center" once she nails down the nomination, a hunger that was reflected in her pandering speech to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee convention last week.

A Neocon Favorite

Many neoconservatives and "liberal interventionists" now see Clinton as the vessel carrying their hopes for more "regime change" wars.

In 2002, Clinton famously supported President George W. Bush's invasion and occupation of Iraq, which -- beyond costing more than $1 trillion and killing hundreds of thousands of people (including nearly 4,500 U.S. soldiers) -- destabilized the Middle East and gave rise to "Al Qaeda in Iraq," which has since morphed into the Islamic State.

Apparently having learned no lessons from the Iraq War, Clinton consistently took hawkish and interventionist positions as President Barack Obama's first Secretary of State.

In 2009, Clinton backed a coup in Honduras that removed democratically elected (and progressive) President Manuel Zelaya and reaffirmed control by the Central American country's oligarchy. Since then, Honduras's human rights situation has worsened, driving thousands of children to flee northward seeking safety and leaving environmental and political activists at the mercy of death squads.

Also, in 2009, Clinton joined with Bush-holdover Defense Secretary Robert Gates and neocon-favorite Gen. David Petraeus in pushing Obama into a major escalation of the Afghan War, a counter-insurgency "surge" that sent another 1,000 American troops to their deaths -- and many more Afghans -- but has since been abandoned as a failure.
Reprinted from Hightower Lowdown

Who are our rescuers? Us!

The jig is up, and my time has come. I'm about to be arrested. They'll be hauling me away in mid-April.

Not for doing anything wrong, really. In fact, if the authorities arrest me, it will be for standing up for what's right. Or, more accurately, I'll be sitting down for what's right -- by participating in a peaceful sit-in at the US Capitol. I don't yet know the details of the process, but I am certain why I'm doing it: to help reclaim our People's democratic rights from the moneyed elites who have bought our elections and deeply corrupted our government in order to impose a corporate plutocracy over you and me.

I'm also certain I will not be alone in the paddy wagon. That's because thousands of mad-as-hellers will be converging on Washington to launch a nationwide mass mobilization of people power to halt Big Money's control of our political system. As I write this, more than 2,000 of us have already pledged to engage in the time honored tactic of peaceful civil disobedience by "sitting-in" for democracy.

But you don't have to go so far as to risk arrest to join this democratic moment, for the April mobilization will offer a wide variety of ways to protest the plutocrats without leaving your comfort zone. It begins April 2 with a patriotic rally at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. Then for you hardier ones, there's a 10-day, 140-mile democracy trek from Philly to Capitol Hill. On Saturday, April 16, there will be teach-ins, workshops, and non-violent direct action trainings, and on the 17th a big, colorful protest march, followed by a "Rally for Democracy" on the Capitol lawn. The 18th will be a "Congress of Conscience," a day of direct action and advocacy during which we commoners can demand, in person, that our Congress critters expand voting rights and end their corporate money addiction.

Throughout this People-A-Palooza, there will be an energizing balance of seriousness and fun: how-to workshops, tub-thumping speeches, cultural exchanges, pop-up musical performances, art exhibits and shows, and other activities. And it won't even end in April. The convening groups and the rank-and-file people energized by the mobilization will be taking the demand for action back to the grassroots and directly into the myriad 2016 campaigns for public office. Two large coalitions, Democracy Awakening and Democracy Spring, each distinct but mutually supportive, are coordinating this pro-democracy rebellion.

What if America had an election and governing system in which every voice is heard and every vote counts equally -- a democracy that works for all of us? We can! If we build it. That's the message and motivation behind this potentially game-changing coalition of more than 100 issue-based, progressive organizations, including:

Labor champions such as Amalgamated Transit Union, American Postal Workers Union, Communications Workers of America, and National Nurses United.

Socially responsible businesses such as Ben & Jerry's and Main Street Alliance.

Enviro stalwarts such as Food & Water Watch, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, Pesticide Action Network, and Sierra Club.

Public interest advocates such as Campaign for America's Future, Common Cause, Demos, Every Voice, Institute for Policy Studies, MoveOn.org, People For the American Way, Project Vote, Public Citizen, and U.S.PIRG.

Media groups such as Brave New Films, Center for Media and Democracy, Daily Kos, ReThink Media -- and The Hightower Lowdown .

. Issue-specific constituencies such as the American Association of University Women, CodePink, DC for Democracy, Jobs With Justice, National Council of Jewish Women, National LGBTQ Task Force, National Organization for Women, NAACP, and Student Debt Crisis.

Democracy Spring

Most of these are large, Washington-based groups that have been rather territorial in the past, too often focusing on only their own issues, needs, and budgets. That has changed. Today, there is a shared recognition that progress on every one of our issues is hopelessly walled in by corporate bribery funds, K-Street lobbyists, crony capitalism, avaricious laissez-faire ideology, and nefarious voter suppression. From climate change to the Walmartization of our economy to racial justice, it is understood that none of us can advance until all of us team up to tear down that wall.

Based on intense and inclusive social media organizing and a very diverse network of community activists and "roots" groups, this vibrant coalition is leading the Liberty-Bell-to-Capitol-Hill march (April 2-11) and coordinating mass actions and sit-ins at the Capitol (April 11-16). The "Spring" (referring both to nature's season of rebirth and the physical act of leaping forward from a constrained position) will also enlist those who can't be in Philadelphia/DC. There will be call-in days, webcasts, Twitter storms, online petitions, local solidarity demonstrations in front of the district offices of lawmakers, and a basket full of other fun/ effective ways that lively imaginations will conjure up to amplify the message that our democracy is broken and that "we" (i.e., The People) now intend to fix it.

Five strong groups -- 99Rise, Avaaz, Democracy Matters, Energy Action Coalition, and the Retail, Wholesale, and Department Store Union -- form the steering committee. More than 100 organizations, including the Lowdown, have endorsed the effort and are involved in a dozen or so working groups that are divvying up the numerous chores that must be done to create a successful mobilization. And hundreds of local volunteer leaders are connected to more than 50 "regional organizing hubs" set-up throughout the country to coordinate community outreach and serve as the organizing and mobilizing engines to generate mass participation for the more than two weeks of Democracy Spring and Democracy Awakening events.

Among those who've pledged to put their butts on the line are Ben Cohen of Ben & Jerry's, Cenk Uygur of The Young Turks, anticorruption Congressional candidate Zephyr Teachout, law professor Larry Lessig, food activist and author Frances Moore Lappe, Rabbi Arthur Waskow of the Shalom Center, core Occupy Wall Street organizer Winnie Wong, actors Gaby Hoffman and Mark Ruffalo, community activist Paulina Gonzales, and The Yes Men -- plus your spunky Lowdown contingent of "cat wrangler" Jay Harris, "internet emissary" Deanna Zandt, and me.

As Kai Newkirk, director of 99Rise and sparkplug of this spring protest puts it, we'll be "Standing up for democracy by sitting in." In other words, this is a huge and complex undertaking, but there is a serious buy-in and commitment of resources and staff from an impressive array of grassroots doers. The importance of the effort is underscored by the willingness of so many to risk arrest in what is expected to be the largest, non-violent, civil-disobedience action in a generation. The plan is to have peaceful sit-ins every day, April 11-16, under the dome of our Capitol--"the People's house."

The time has come. Six years after the Supreme Court's malignant Citizens United ruling, nearly every American plainly sees how our nation's historic, political ethic of citizen equality -- "one person one vote" -- has been buried in a roaring avalanche of corrupt, corporate money and voter suppression. Moreover, nearly nine years after Wall Street thieves wrecked our economy, the great majority also plainly sees that the court's turbo-charge of money politics has produced economic policies that richly reward the plutocratic robbers and coldly abandon the robbed.

The Republicans' threat to ignore their constitutional duty and block the president from appointing a successor to Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia ups the urgency and the ante. There's no need to convince the American people that they've been stiffed. As they reveal in poll after poll, they know it, for they're experiencing it personally, and they're furious at the business-as-usual/politics-as-usual establishment that has done it to them. A major, non-partisan survey taken last September by Public Policy Polling found:

This powerful anti-Big Money sentiment is also part of what has fueled establishment-stunning Bernie and Donnie presidential runs, and it's why we democracy rebels should shift now from complaining about the plutocratic corruption of our country to stopping it. The people are ready, and this hyper-political year is the time to move, for (1) the presidential and congressional elections will focus public attention on the political system for months to come, and (2) corporate and political cash will be on full display (from the Koch Brothers' Billionaire Money Bash to the garish corporate sponsorship of both parties' national conventions).


Carl and Nicole Petersen

(Image by Carl Petersen) Details DMCA



Shortly after my wife and I had met, we had what I now refer to as our "clearing the calendar" phone call. We knew individually that we had hit it off and were ready to take it to a higher level. This involved sharing our feelings and then syncing our complicated calendars. However, before we could do this, Nicole told me there was something that I needed to know first.

For some reason, the first thought that quickly crossed my mind was that I should have never watched the Crying Game. After all, what other plot twist could justify the gravity in her voice? I already knew that she had triplets and that two of the girls were on the autism spectrum. If I was willing to accept these challenges, what else could she possibly tell me that could cause me to run?

And so she cautioned me, "Before we go any further I need you know that I have Multiple Sclerosis. M.S."

"Ok," I responded. This was followed by a short period of silence as I tried to process the information. The truth was that there was not much to process as I really did not know much about this condition, how it affected her or what I would need to do to become part of her life. However, with estimates that more than 400,000 Americans have been diagnosed with M. S., her story is not entirely unique.

While she would not be diagnosed for another seven years, Nicole started having chronic medical problems when she was 16. It was not something that she could adequately express, but she did not feel "right." Since doctors could not readily diagnose a problem, she was told that it was in her head. The word "hypochondriac" was thrown around a lot. Looking back, this served as an important milestone in learning the lesson that we all need to be advocates for our own health care and given the tools to do so.

Stress and M.S. are like oil and water and at 21 a particularly stressful period resulted in her completely losing feeling in one of her legs. With no other cause readily apparent, her doctor told her that it was probably a pinched nerve and would go away by itself. It did and another chance at diagnosis was missed. Visual disturbances, which made reading difficult, continued.

Two years later Nicole experienced a sudden increase in the severity of her visual problems and was finally referred to an opthamologist. With her previous medical history, her symptoms should have sent up a red flag that she also needed to see a neurologist, but the opthamologist did not see it. Instead, he attributed the problems to a medication that she was taking and had her stop. As the effects of the flare up ended, so did her visual problems. Unfortunately, they did so just in time to make the doctor think that his diagnosis was correct.

It would be another six months before the condition would flare up again and this time it did it in such a way that it could not be ignored. Once again it was brought on by stress; this time Nicole lost all feeling from the chest down. Instead of the numbness that I would imagine, feeling was was replaced by pain. It was not a pain that pointed to a particular area, she just hurt. Unable to deal with this pain as she waited for a referral from her doctor she insisted on going to the emergency room.

The doctors in the ER understood the severity of the situation enough to order a spinal tap to rule out any bacterial infection. Other than that, all they could do was give her a shot of demerol and send her home to rest. After the results of the spinal tap proved negative, they had her come back for an MRI. For all the talk about our healthcare system spending too much on unnecessary tests, doctor after doctor had failed to order the one that could have given Nicole a reason for her problems. After just 45 minutes, the lesions on her spinal cord and brain were found and she was diagnosed with M. S.

Finally receiving a diagnosis provided a great deal of relief as there was now a reason beyond the problems and a plan could be developed to lessen the symptoms. However, this would not come without costs. The immediate flare up was tamed with concentrated doses of steroids, which by themselves can cause a toll on the human body. Additionally, the first maintenance drug that she was prescribed was taken once a week and would knock her off of her feet for the entire weekend. The drug she takes now can cost as much as $6.000 per month. Luckily, once we were together she was able to get insurance through my plan since regular insurance plans would not accept her for individual coverage in the days before Obamacare. The drug manufacturer also helps cover some of the co-pay through their patient assistance program.

Even with the maintenance drug helping to reduce the number of relapses, they still do occur, especially in times of stress. Hot weather is also a factor resulting in air conditioning bills that are higher than what other families face. A medical allowance from the utility company does reduce some of these costs. Problems walking, fatigue and pain are issues between flare-up events.

While Obamacare has placed many regulations on the health insurance industry to ensure that the insured receives value for their premiums, Nicole's experience has shown that these regulations do not always go far enough. For example, it was found that one medical device would assist her walking and greatly increase her mobility. Unfortunately, the insurance company rejects this finding and will not approve payment for the device, going against the requests of both Nicole and her doctors. They will, however, pay for a motorized scooter. While this would help reduce her fatigue, it would not help her fitness or enhance her continued independence. More must be done to make sure insurance companies pay for all health care that is needed and not just what is cheaper for the company.

M. S. affects each patient differently and, therefore, each person has a unique experience. To make things even more interesting, the effects are constantly changing. This uncertainty has provided a lesson to Nicole that would benefit us all - you never know what tomorrow will bring, so if you are feeling good today, make the most of it.


(Image by EPA) Details DMCA



The current Republican front-runner for president, Donald Trump, has made it clear that the Environmental Protection Agency is in line for serious cuts if he makes it to the White House. Trump noted this at several debates, reiterating the substance of what he told Chris Wallace in an interview for Fox News Sunday in late 2015. Talking about the EPA, he said, "What they do is a disgrace. Every week they come out with new regulations. They're making it impossible." Trump went on to maintain, "We'll be fine with the environment. We can leave a little bit [of regulations], but you can't destroy businesses."

When the electorate hears the sound bite, and Trump pitting EPA restrictions against business and jobs, it may resonate on the surface"but a deeper look shows that when neighborhoods are impacted by serious pollution threats, they quickly change their minds.

Porter Ranch, California experienced an "aha" moment around the dangers of fracking, methane leaks, and methane storage. Oregon is now coming to grips with what is shaping up to be a crisis of their own.

Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, along with Rep. Earl Blumenauer, reached out to Gina McCarthy and the EPA via a letter dated February 12, which qualified toxic "hot spots" of air pollution in Portland emanating from facilities producing stained glass. As per the letter, due to a "regulatory loophole," these emissions slipped by the existing standards.

As ongoing stories filed by Rob Davis, the environmental reporter for The Oregonian/Oregon Live relates, the toxins in question didn't exactly slip by. Rather, the stained glass industry lobbied for an exemption.

Now that two specific factories have been targeted as emitting heavy metal toxins including lead, cadmium, and arsenic, the solidly populated vicinities adjacently located are quite concerned. Additionally, there are several schools in the area. Residents, worried about potential cancer risks, are looking into having their urine and blood tested.

On February 22, the Senators and Congressman sent a letter to the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Director for the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. They asked for "immediate assistance in responding to the public health risks identified by the discovery of hotspots of dangerously high levels of an airborne heavy metals in Portland, Oregon."

I reached out to Sen. Merkley for a comment. He responded by e-mail:

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Mount Pleasant and Bay City recently received blight Blight Elimination Program grants awarded by the Michigan Land Bank Fast Track Authority.

The City of Mount Pleasant continues to chip away at the demolition and clean-up of the former Mount Pleasant Regional Center for Developmental Disabilities with help from the grant program.

Mount Pleasant has seen many positive changes in recent years, and this project allows our community to continue moving forward, said House Speaker Kevin Cotter, R-Mount Pleasant. This is a beautiful, dynamic city that still has a lot of potential to grow into the future. We are all happy to see the state support that growth and encourage new development.

This $100,000 grant brings the total amount awarded to the city for blight removal of the former hospital facility to $350,000. Mount Pleasant was awarded a $250,000 blight grant last summer by the Michigan Land Bank.

The 100-acre project area contains 17 vacant buildings and is bordered by a public school building, residential neighborhoods and registered historic properties owned by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe.

The project plan aims to demolish the remaining on-site buildings and make the property development ready.

Bay City plans use its $75,916 grant to tear down four residential structures.

I am grateful to the Michigan Land Bank for providing Bay City with funds to remove blighted properties for redevelopment, said State Rep. Charles Brunner (D-Bay City). Bay City has made amazing progress in blight elimination and this grant will further that mission while continuing to revitalize our city.

Two of the structures are part of the Neighborhood Preservation Project area and will bring the total demolitions for that area to six.

The demolition of four nearby structures by the city is currently underway using grant money from a previous round of funding in 2015.

The remaining two structures set for demolition using the new grant money are in separate areas unrelated to the NPP district. Both of those residential buildings are in stable neighborhoods located on well-traveled main streets.

City officials said these two blighted structures are pulling surrounding housing values down and attracting unwanted activity.

In October 2015, the Michigan Land Bank received a $1 million grant from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to continue efforts to demolish vacant and abandoned structures and promote public safety.

Eliminating blighted properties promotes public safety, stabilizes property values and enhances local economic development opportunities, said Department of Talent and Economic Development Director Steve Arwood. An investment in blight elimination is an investment in the future of Michigan.

County land banks and local units of government with eligible projects across the state were invited to apply for this round of funding by early February. Grant awards for individual projects were capped at $250,000.

To be eligible for funding, demolition projects were limited to blighted residential structures or blighted buildings in business districts, downtowns or commercial corridors; or demolition of commercial buildings that are part of a development project with funding commitments.

Statewide, 41 applications were submitted requesting more than $3.4 million to fight blight.

Fighting blight aids in future community growth and revitalization in the neighborhoods where Michigan residents live, work and play, said MSHDA Executive Director Kevin Elsenheimer.
To the Editor:

The John Alden Chapter of the Daughters of American Revolution is proud to be a Vietnam Veteran Commemorative Partner.

We are grateful that the DAR Vietnam 50th Anniversary Commemorative Flag will fly over the Midland County Services Building on March 29 to honor all Vietnam veterans. This day will be the anniversary of the last day U.S. troops were on Vietnam soil.

For those that may be unfamiliar with DAR, the threefold purpose of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution remains the same today as when the Society was organized in 1890 and chartered by Act of Congress in 1895. The three purposes are:

Historical: To perpetuate the memory and spirit of the men and women who achieved American Independence.

Educational: To promote, as an object of primary importance, institutions of the general diffusion of knowledge, thus developing an enlightened public opinion.

Patriotic: To cherish, maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom, to foster true patriotism and love of country, and to aid in securing for mankind all the blessings of liberty.

The John Alden DAR members wish to express our thanks to Vietnam veterans on March 29 plus we extend our gratitude and thanks to all veterans for the many American freedoms that we are able to enjoy each day.

Thank you to Bridgette Gransden, Midland County administrator/controller, and Kevin Beeson, Midland County facilities manager, for making it possible to honor the Vietnam veterans by having the Vietnam Veteran Commemorative Flag flown on March 29.

Carolyn Graham

John Alden DAR

Regent
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There are contradicting ideas in early education for children, with most parents perceiving it as a much more expensive form of day care. However, there's growing evidence that supports the benefits of preschool education for your toddler despite the hefty price.

The importance of preschool education has been a controversial topic. Is it really important for young kids to go to school? Are the benefits worth the expenses? These are just among the questions most parents ask themselves.

However, there are studies that support the importance of early childhood education. In fact, President Obama has included high-quality education as one of his priorities in his 2013 State of the Union, as reported by Huffington Post.

To help you decide, here are key points to consider when you decide to let your toddler go to preschool. Information gathered from Parenting and Huffington Post will answer questions you might have why preschool matters.

How important is preschool?

According to Dr Kathleen McCartney, dean of Harvard Graduate School of Education in Cambridge, Massachusetts, preschool serves as a preparatory stage for real education. At preschool, kids learn how to socialize, learn the basics of the alphabets, numbers, shapes and colors.

When kids enter kindergarten, those children who had preschool education were found to have richer vocabulary, strong mathematical skills, and reading skills, W. Steven Barnett, PhD, added. Overall, preschool education benefits the child emotionally, intellectually and socially.

Todd Grindal, an education expert from Harvard Graduate School of Education, also emphasized the importance of the first five years of a person as this is the time when our brain grows to 90 percent of its adult size. Indeed, first five years are the critical years.

Preschool education is the perfect venue for your kids to develop self-confidence. They will realize that they can actually do little things by themselves.

Looking for the right school

It is recommended to do a lot of research and consideration in choosing the right preschool for your kids. You may also ask for advice from other moms. There are plenty forms of preschool education to choose from: private schools, day care centers, religious institutions, state-funded schools and cooperatives.

It is best to look for a state-licensed once you've narrowed down your options. The highest accreditation is given by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Call each school to ask about the different requirements, fees, admission policies and curriculum.

You may also want to pay a visit and observe in a class. It is also best to bring your child along to see how your kid responds to the environment. Create a checklist and list all questions you may want to ask the school director. Check out this video about preschool education at Montessori:
Model Blac Chyna is eager to have a baby with former "Keeping Up With The Kardashians" star Rob Kardashian. The 27-year-old model, who also happens to be the mother of King Cairo, 3, seems to want to take their relationship to the next level with these pregnancy plans.

According to Mirror, the ex-girlfriend of Tyga -- who is currently dating Kardashian's sister, Kylie Jenner -- has openly expressed her desire to have kids with Kardashian. Citing her video posts on Snapchat, the publication said Chyna has been repeatedly referencing her urge to get pregnant again when she addresses Rob in the videos.

"Rob! I am not playin' with you, I want my eggs CRACKED," Blac Chyna was quoted in one snap as saying. "That mean I wanna have a BABY! I need my name DROPPED!"

Blac Chyna also noted that she wants to get married and have kids. Kardashian was seen in the background just laughing while his girlfriend was shouting her heart out.

A Radar Online source claimed that Rob is also spending a lot of time with Blac Chyna's son, King Cairo. They were seen at Legoland for Rob's birthday and were recently spotted shopping toys at Toys 'R' Us.

"Rob spending time with King Cairo has convinced Rob that he is ready to be a father," the source added. "He thinks that the sexiest thing about Blac Chyna is what a great mom she is to King."

In addition, People said the couple also shared on social media their food trip in burger joint In-n-Out. The two were looked amused in their recent food adventure.

A video posted by @chynaalaurenlove on Mar 23, 2016 at 6:52pm PDT

It was noted in the same report that their relationship, which was made public in January, is getting stronger. During the first months of dating, there were some issues with the Kardashian-Jenner clan, who have long been on a social media feud with Blac Chyna.

However, a People source noted that it was already a thing of the past. "Kris [Jenner] is actually super stoked on them being together now. She feels like Rob was pulled out of his depression phase because of her," the source added.

The Kardashian patriarch is reportedly happy that her son is again positive about life because of Blac Chyna. "Knowing and seeing that makes Kris support their relationship," added the source.
Digital mammograms are often used to determine the health of women's breasts and are commonly used in early detection of breast cancer. However, mammograms might soon serve another purpose. Researchers have recently discovered that the X-ray device could help in finding out a patient's risk of developing heart disease.

According to Huffington Post, detecting a patient's risk of heart disease is possible by finding out the amount of calcium found within the breast arteries, which apparently mirrors the levels of calcium in the coronary arteries -- those responsible for pumping blood to the heart. The breast arteries are visible when a digital mammogram is being performed.

A photo posted by Mammy V (@mammyvee) on Mar 11, 2016 at 2:28am PST

As it turns out, the calcium found in the coronary arteries has long been known to be a sign of heart disease. The fact that a connection between calcium levels in both the coronary and breast arteries has been made is a means to "pay attention," Dr. Jagat Narula of Icahn School of Medicine at NYC's Mount Sinai and study co-author told Reuters Health.

The study consisted of 292 female participants who have gone through both a chest computed tomography (CT) scan and a digital mammography. The team of researchers analyzed the data, including factors attributed to heart disease risk: high levels of cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and smoking.

Narula and the rest of the team discovered that 42.5 percent of the women had calcium in the breast arteries, which were found through digital mammography. According to Pulse Headlines, these women were "significantly older," had higher blood pressure and chronic disease in comparison to those who did not show any calcification in the breast arteries.

Meanwhile, 47.5 percent of the study participants were found to have calcium within their coronary arteries. These women were discovered to have higher levels of diabetes and chronic kidney disease, in addition to being much older, having higher blood pressure and chronic disease than those who didn't have coronary arterial calcium.

After further inspection, Narula and the research team found that calcium in the breasts is 70 percent accurate in predicting the existence of calcium in the coronary arteries. As for women, the study's senior author, Dr. Laura Margolies, notes that women should ask their radiologists regarding the arteries in their breasts after getting a mammography done.

"Women should ask their radiologists if there was any calcification in their breast arteries," Margolies said. "This information can then be given to their primary care doctors to be used in conjunction with standard risk factors to determine if further evaluation (or treatment) would be of benefit."

However, Margolies does admit that there is still a possibility of a "false positive." This basically means that not all calcium found in the breast arteries directly point to a heart disease, noting that people already diagnosed with the latter would have no advantage when it comes to finding out their breast arterial calcium content.

The team will present their findings at the American College of Cardiology on April 3 at its annual session in Chicago. Furthermore, the study was will also be published in the journal, JACC: Cardiovascular Imaging.

What do you think about this new discovery? Sound off in the comments section below and don't forget to share this with your friends!
The Common Core curriculum standards are bound to affect teaching at every level. Here are a few strategies to help set up teachers for success with the Common Core State Standards.

The Common Core State Standards offers a coherent progression of learning expectations designed to prepare K-12 students for college and career success. Launched in 2009, state leaders of the Council of Chief State School Officers and the National Governors Association Center developed this important undertaking.

The Common Core State Standards clearly communicates what is expected of each student in each grade level ensuring they are prepared for post-secondary education and career, no matter where they live. Fortunately, there are a few tips to help new teachers ready themselves to master the Common Core standards.

For one, investing new teachers to a common vision of excellence so that teachers can enter the classroom with a common goal in mind for their instruction, according to Rachel Evans, Site Director, Arizona at TNTP from the Huffington Post. Evans also suggested making the process linear even if the product is not by analyzing standards and determining which ones will be well-suited to be taught in a unit.

With the Common Core standards, students will be asked to think critically by devoting approximately three days to multiple readings of a certain text. While this may take longer, the learning will last longer especially when great units and themes are put together.

Finally, Evans pointed out that classroom culture should always be the priority as even the most immaculately planned lessons will fail if students feel unsure about taking academic risks. What the Common Core standards are trying to instill matters just as much as how to deal and address student behaviors.

Unfortunately, not everyone may agree to the new education standards arguing that a few weeks of training in the summer is not sufficient to master teaching skills. In addition, people who wanted to be teachers in the past went to college for four years plus took semester courses in teaching techniques, according to Curmudgucation.

Many teachers also have the concern of never fully able to implement these new standards in their own classrooms. Teaching to the level of Common Core State Standards is daunting especially in schools that did not master the former and less rigorous standards. While Common Core State stands are said to be complex, not everyone may agree to the new mandate.
Brazil's ongoing battle against the Zika virus has challenged the country's conservative attitude towards abortion. Some sectors are asking for leniency while others want steeper penalties for women who abort fetuses with Zika-related birth defects.

Abortion due to Zika is a reality

Women's rights advocate Sonia Correa lamented Brazil's poor implementation of its sexual health policies and neonatal care. She told ABC that the Zika epidemic has caused women to take matters into their own hands, behind the government's back.

"We have signs that some women are seeking clandestine abortions because they found themselves pregnant and with Zika," Correa revealed. "If nothing else we are convinced that the crisis provides everybody with an incredibly privileged moment to debate the issue once again, with so much media, so much discussion on the street."

Pro-abortion groups are prodding the government to allow terminations for pregnant women diagnosed with Zika. As of the moment, abortion is only permitted in Brazil in cases of rape or if the mother or child's life is in danger.

Brazil abortions have international backing

An international advocacy group has been partly to blame for the increased incidence of abortion in the country. The unnamed backer has been supplying abortifacients to Brazilian women who worry their children might develop microcephaly.

Los Angeles Times reported that the group has halted its operations as health authorities in Brazil have started confiscating post mails containing abortion-inducing drugs. To their defense, authorities explained that they have the right to sequester the items as such medicines are prohibited in the country.

Better healthcare services, not abortions

On the other end of the spectrum, Dr. Luciana Lopes Lemos is calling on the country's health officials to implement more comprehensive healthcare services so that abortions wouldn't be necessary. She sees the push to legalize abortion as nothing more than an opportunistic move by devious sectors.

"Shall we now then forget about fighting for a better life, and kill because we don't have a capacity to give a better life to people?" Lemos expressed. "These people that defend abortion in this case are the same people that defend abortion in any case. They are being opportunistic based on the number of women panicking about microcephaly."
It seems that there is a feud going on in the British Royal family as it was clearly seen that numerous of the most important royals in the British hierarchy was not there to spend the Easter Holiday with the reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. Instead, other lower positioned royals attended church with the queen, this includes Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Countess Sophia Wessex, Prince Edward, the Earl and Countess' daughter Lady Louise, and their son James. So where is Prince Harry, Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, wife to Prince William, Kate Middleton at?

According to the reports Kate Middleton flaked on the Easter church after finding out that Prince William attended his ex' wedding Jecca Craig, and that the Prince was not only visiting Kenya for his wildlife conservation project but to see his former ladylove. Kate Middleton is said to be furious about this and decided to spend the Easter holidays with the Middleton family, together with son Prince George and daughter Princess Charlotte.

This is supposed to be Princess Charlotte's first Easter with the Royals. The fact that Kate Middleton chose to not spend it with the Royals says a lot of how she might feel about Prince William attending Jecca Craigs wedding.

Will this happen to in Princess Charlotte's first birthday in May? will the Middleton family also cut off the royal family just like what they did in the Easter celebrations? It could be possible that this might happen but it will be unlikely in some way. The Royals will have a share of the beautiful Princess and fourth line in the throne.

A lot of people have a feeling that the Queen might be treating Kate Middleton like she treated the late Princess Diana, with a cold shoulder. Because in the history of the Royal Family, they were not too keen on hiding Prince Charles infidelity from Princess Diana.
It seems like things are getting nasty between Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck. Well, the divorce that they were going through was pretty smooth at first.

With the two living very much in peace with each other, even spending holidays together as a family with friends, there have even been rumors that the two were getting back together. However, it seems like all those rumors about reigniting the burnt flame between Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck are dead. According to reports, Jennifer Garner is furious with Ben Affleck after Ben Affleck went behind Jennifer Garner's back and broke his silence.

Not a lot of people know but it is somewhat a silent arrangement in Hollywood that couple who are divorcing should be agree as to who can speak about the divorce. It is said that if it someone's fault, then that someone can't talk about the divorce and only the other person in the relationship can, just like in Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner's position.

The news reports claiming that it was Ben Affleck's infidelity that cause them to divorce means that the "Gone Girl" star has no right to speak about the divorce. However, Ben Affleck broke his silence and now Jennifer Garner is livid.

According to some of Jennifer Garner's close allies, the "Daredevil" star has kicked out Ben Affleck from their shared home. Recent news claimed that she should have been the one to break the news, but Ben Affleck went ahead and broke it out to the media that he was returning to his bachelor pad.

Although this might seem like it is a petty fight, everything in Hollywood is complicated. The fact the Ben Affleck broke the agreement might cost him a lot. As of now, the divorce is still being processed between Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck.
Easter Montana schools have recorded several student suicide caused by bullying. Parents are now calling the school officials, but it seems they still do not know how they are going to handle the situation.

There is an anti-bullying bill that has been passed by the Montana legislature last year. However, it offers only a few directions regarding the policies should a school district must include and it just worsen the situation, Montana Standard reported.

Children can be bullied anytime and even at the comforts of their home through social media and other platforms where cyberbullying can be done.

Schools have different ways to handle the bullying complaints. Many districts have been using a report form. Some of them limited the access to students only while others are allowing the parents to get the form online. Many bullying complaints are being checked by an independent adjudicator in School District 2 in Billings.

A group of parents in Laurel City in Yellowstone County has been pressuring the school officials for a new way of addressing bullying. Some parents even pulled their children out from the district as they believe that the district cannot protect their children from assault and harassment.

George Zorzakis, a school resource officer from the Billings Police Department said that bullying happens every day. Most of the incidents started from social media interactions. Zorzakis also works for both Will James and Lewis and Clark middle schools, according to Billings Gazette.

According to him, school districts' weak response to bullying is caused by lack of strong state legislative direction. It is also hard to tell the difference between a typical peer-to-peer conflict and bullying. One factor that indicates bullying is an imbalance of power, which is based on economic status, learning ability, size or other differences.

"The bullying group becomes larger, so we're dealing with more parents, more kids," he said. "It becomes more complicated."


A celebration of beer making? Sounds like a reason to hoist a stein. As the beer scene continually evolves, rare offerings and one-off brews are part of the charm. The a la carte sixer has taken over and flagships rotate ever more frequently. Brewers want to experiment with new recipes, and patrons swarm for the unique creations. Its not just new beer from new brewers, though. When brewers hit milestones, its often a chance to play around and serve something new.

Here is a look at some recent and upcoming big anniversary beers available in select markets. Of course, there are as many anniversary beers as there are breweries and a comprehensive list is impossible. Dogfish Head ran a big series last year for their 20th, Stone has an annual release, as do many more. Here are eight to look for.



August Schell Brewing Company (New Ulm, MN)

155th anniversary

As in 155 years of tradition. As in six generations of brewing heritage spanning the Civil War, the Great Depression, Prohibition, two World Wars and disco music. We couldnt put it any better ourselves. With an emphasis on German-style beers throughout the past century and a half, Schells released this beer full-time in 12 oz. bottles for all to enjoy the red lager with subtle, citrus-hop note atop its caramel, toffee base. The beer was released in the summer of 2015.



Summit Brewing Company (St. Paul, MN)

30th anniversary

Thirty years old this September, Summit will release four special beers throughout the year, kicking off with Double IPA and followed by a Keller Pils, West Long-Style Ale, and a winter Barleywine. The DIPA is a potent 8.5%, with a smooth bitterness and some tropic fruit aromatics. Its available in four-pack tall cans now, while the others will be released seasonally as 2016 progresses.



New Belgium Brewing (Fort Collins, CO)

25th anniversary

Fat Tire amber ale is synonymous with New Belgium, a beer that now leads the brewerys brand in 41 states as the B-Corp business grows and remains focused on sustainable practices, employee ownerships, and the love of the bicycle. To celebrate 25 years, theyre collaborating with other breweries in a beer version of the cover song, letting Allagash Brewing Company (Portland, ME), Avery Brewing (Boulder, Colo.), Firestone Walker (Paso Robles, CA), Hopworks Urban Brewery (Portland, OR) and Rhinegeist Brewery (Cincinnati, OH) take Fat Tire for a ride and reinterpretation in a sampler pack with two original and classic Fat Tires and two re-imagined variations from each. Allagash brings in brettanomyces, Hopworks gives a blast of lactobacillus, and the others switch up yeast profiles and hop levels as well. The sampler pack comes out this June, with official parties in both Fort Collins and Asheville, NC.



Flying Dog Brewery (Frederick, MD)

25th anniversary

Instead of silver, Flying Dog is celebrating 25 years with pineapple, mango, and passion fruit in this remake of their divisively named Belgian IPA, Raging Bitch, which first appeared at anniversary 20. With a hop profile that already displayed tropical notes, the brewers did the next logical thing and upped the profile with the fruits themselves. The beer is out now in limited release, beginning with Flying Dogs anniversary on Jan. 28, 2016.



Firestone Walker Brewing Company (Paso Robles, CA)

20th anniversary

Firestone Walker brings a new blended barrel-aged beer to their followers every November for the past 10 years running, with local winemakers sharing their unique skills in the blending process. 2015 saw XIX, a blend of Parabola, Stickee Monkee, Bravo, and Velvet Merkin that profiled, per their description, as a rich, chocolaty, chewy brew with brandy-soaked raisin and holiday fruitcake flavors. Coming in November, with their 20th year milestone to celebrate, its safe to expect something equally bold and unique.



Victory Brewing Company (Downington, PA)

20th anniversary

Twenty years in and still experimenting, as this Experimental IPA features Idaho 7 hops and a blend of pilsner and CaraPils malt for a citrus and pine forward beer that marks two decades of Victory. Sweet melon and cantaloupe give way to crisp finish and an easy drinking 5.5% ABV that showcase Victorys direction as they near drinking age. Anniversary 20 is available in limited supply bottles that hit shelves this January.



SweetWater Brewing Company (Atlanta, GA)

19th anniversary

SweetWater has a tradition in recent years: Belgian-styled beers plus barrel-aging. This beer, 19, is a golden Belgian-style ale. While its an IPA at its base, the merlot and cabernet barrels give a fully balanced beer thats soft on the mouth with a unique mixture of Belgian yeast and berry-driven wine flavors in an effervescent package. At 7% and a hazy gold in color, 19 is a lovely afternoon beer that splits duties, both complex and layered but also easy drinking.



Central Waters Brewing Company (Amherst, WI)

18th anniversary

Central Waters, like SweetWater above, dedicated each years party to the barrel-aged variety, with a unique offering of their imperial stout each January. Its sold both in-house and in bomber bottles and is a creamy big and rich imperial stout with chocolate, vanilla, and bourbon tones.
Sometimes even DIY travelers need a creative nudge. In our Inspired Travel articles, the Paste Travel team highlights some of the most innovative tours offered by some of the best operators in the industry. Get ready to call in the rest of your vacation days, pull out your map, and pack your duffel. The world awaits.

National parks are turning 100 this year, and just about everyone is invited to the party.

In addition to the U.S. National Park Service offering 16 days of free admission to many of its parks this year, global travel company Intrepid Travel is providing its customers with an unforgettable way to celebrate the anniversary  by exploring the parks like they never could have before.

This fall, the company will be leading four one-time-only expeditions through some of the countrys most breathtaking national parks. Each tour takes place in a different part of the country, and features the type of immersive activities that are guaranteed to get travelers up close and personal with Americas natural wonders.

The U.S. is full of iconic landmarks that sadly, most travelers never take the time to visit, said Leigh Barnes, Regional Director for Intrepid Travel in North America. We are privileged to have some of the most iconic travel destinations in the world right here in the United States and we hope to encourage more people to visit them in 2016.

Travelers can choose between kayaking in Yellowstone National Park, biking through Utahs Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks, sailing through Floridas Lower Keys or hiking through deserts and Sequoia forests on the way to climb Californias famous Mt. Whitney.

The trips last about a week on average, and range in price from $1,810 to $3,475  a relatively small price to spend on a 100th birthday present. For more information about the centennial anniversary tours, check out Intrepids website.

Dillon Thompson is a travel intern with Paste and a student at the University of Georgia.
a dark, sketchy passageway off Rynok Square in the Western Ukrainian city of Lviv. Late in the evening on a weeknight, the Medieval squarea mishmash of Renaissance, Viennese Classical, Late Baroque and Gothic architectural stylesis almost entirely empty. Walking to the end of the passage, I found a large unmarked wooden door. No noise emanated from the door before me, but I knew there was activity on the other side.

Knock, knock.

A large peephole slid open, and the bearded face of an elderly man appeared. Slava Ukraini,he muttered. It was a code that means Glory to Ukraine, and it told me the resistance fighters still had control of the space.

Geroyam slava, I replied, giving the proper response, which translates, Glory to its heroes! Of course, Ive never had an aptitude for languages, so I might have just said, Glory to Geronimo!

The large door creaked opened, and a Fidel Castro doppelganger in a Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) uniform pointed a gun at me. Moskalee ye? he said looking around. He asked if I had Russians with me.

I almost said nyet but quickly remembered thats Russian, not Ukrainian. I merely shook my head. The soldier then motioned to the gun, and

Boom! I got shot with a few ounces of homemade honey-vodka poured straight from the barrel. Ironically, it burned my throat like I really did get shot. As I showcased several different facial grimaces, the soldier laughed and then opened a false bookcase that led downstairs. Now I heard noise.

I just entered Kryivka, a speakeasy bar with a revolutionary theme. In English, the name is Bunker.

two principal cities seem culturally different: Moscow is the center of traditional Russian culture, while St. Petersburg feels more like traditional Europe thanks in large part to the citys founder, Peter the Great. A similar dynamic happens in Ukraine. Kiev, the one-time capital of Kievan Rus (i.e., early Russia), reflects its traditional roots, while Lviv bears a closer resemblance to Krakow and other Central European cities. Lviv is, in fact, little more than 40 miles from the Polish border.

The reason for the Central European feel is the same reason Lviv boasts such an enthralling mix of cultures. The Soviets added the city to Ukraine after World War II, but in the centuries before, Lviv was part of Poland, Austria, Lithuania and various other countries and kingdoms. The city spent significantly more time in traditional Europe than in the hands of Russia or Ukraine, and UNESCO noted the influence when it bestowed world heritage honors on its beautiful medieval square. According to the committee, Lviv is an outstanding example of the fusion of the architectural and artistic traditions of eastern Europe with those of Italy and Germany.

As a city repeatedly occupied by so many outside countries, locals often fought for freedom, and the speakeasy-style Bunker parodies the underground resistance bunkers where UPA rebels organized efforts to fight the Nazis and later the Soviets, Czechs and Poles in the 1940s. The words to get into Kryjivka were apparently real UPA code, and the bar website claims the space was formerly a real insurgent bunker, though the staff told me it was merely inspired by when I visited in 2009. Regardless, the revolutionary spirit portrayed in the speakeasy felt genuine, and the locals likely embrace it now more than ever after the recent Ukraine-Russia clashes.

Sheepishly entering the bar, I immediately saw resistance flags, revolutionary photos, old-school weapons and anti-Soviet propaganda that all made for excellent photos ops. The place was literally a museum showcasing the UPA resistance. A large machine gun was available as a prop, and in one section of the bar, a shooting gallery allowed guests to fire a BB gun at an image of Joseph Stalin.

at the bar, and a server handed me a menu in the form of an insurgent newspaper, the type insurgents once discretely distributed in town. Several dishes also had creative names like Drunk Russians and Grilled KGB Agents. Considering the tavern served traditional dishes like pig ears and cured pig fat, the fanciful entree names were probably a blessing in disguise. Still, I came to drink.

Vodka, I said to the bartender. I pointed to a high-end bottle that I did not remember ever seeing in the states. My intention was to try all the vodkas I couldnt get at home.

The vodka came in a shot glass. Unlike the U.S., Eastern Europeans rarely drink vodka with soda water, juice or other mixers. The one time I ordered a vodka and club soda, I received a separate vodka shot and a glass of club soda. From then on, I always drank vodka in the local way when in Russia and Ukraine. Ironically, though, Kryivka did serve vodka and apple juice.

As I started to pound the shot, the bartender motioned for me to wait. He then brought out a green military helmet and placed it on my head. If I wanted to drink vodka in the bunker, I needed to look like an insurgent. Either that, or he saw an American tourist drinking Russian vodka and wanted to protect me when I inevitably fell off the stool.

Though the vodka should be sipped, I decided to throw down the first drink like a shot. Afterward, the bartender possibly gave away the reason for the helmet when he lightly banged the shot glass on my head, almost like an American-style cheers! It was a strangely friendly gesture. I ordered another.

Bunkers three foundersone with ridiculous facial hair that even a Williamsburg hipster would describe as trying too hardhave several other theme restaurants and bars with varying levels of kitsch and offensiveness. House of Legends, for example, uses dwarves as servers, while the First Lviv Grill Restaurant of Meat and Justice pays tribute to the citys first municipal employee, the local executioner, who later opened a meat restaurant. Cafe Masoch, a kinky bistro named after the local writer who gave Masochism its name, is filled with leather-clad waitresses who whip, handcuff and nipple pinch the customers. The Most Expensive Galician Restaurant, meanwhile, is a Masonic parody that really pissed off the modern Freemasons, who took particular exception to the throne-shaped toilets modeled after thrones used in their rituals.

The owners say it is all in good fun. Political correctness, as you might have noticed, has yet to fully sink in over in Ukraine.

Though more of a hidden gem at the time, Kryivka is now an immensely popular spot with tourists and university students. Unfortunately, this means there might be a line at the secret door, or at least a wait to get a table or chair. Reservations, if anyone decides to answer the phone at the bar, are recommended for those wishing to dine.

Three hours and six or seven vodkas later, I placed the helmet back on the bar. The patrons that night were mostly happy drunks, and one table enthusiastically broke into a traditional Ukrainian drinking song. As I stumbled past the other patrons and toward the exit, I stopped several times to take a closer took at the historic photos and had a thought. Lviv, like so many other Eastern European cities, suffered immensely during much of the past 70 years, and the Kryivka theme represented a time when many men and women died due to tyranny and racism. New Yorkers would not appreciate a bar built like the Twin Towers, but in Lviv, Ukrainians turned a symbol of war and tragedy into a place to come together and celebrate.

For all the political incorrectness, the bar owners and patrons might just have the right spirit.

Photos: Andriy Baranskyy, CC-BY and Marcin Grabski, CC-BY

David Jenison is a Los Angeles native and the Content Editor of PROHBTD. He has covered entertainment, restaurants and travel for more than 20 years.
Last month, we reported that Kiwi comedian-musicians Flight of the Conchords would be touring America for the first time since 2013. Today, they announced that their already-busy June and July itinerary wasnt quite jam-packed enough, adding a few second shows to already sold-out cities. Check out the stops theyve added below.

Flight of the Conchords Additional Tour Dates

June

25  Portland, Ore. @ Keller Auditorium

28  San Francisco, Calif. @ Shoreline Amphitheater

July

10  Austin, Tex. @ Bass Hall

20  New York, N.Y. @ Forest Hills Stadium

26  Los Angeles, Calif. @ The Greek Theatre
Nothing will compliment a day spent out in San Diego sunshine like some guacamole and fresh Mexican cooking. Good food isnt hard to come by in this Southern Californian city but an unforgettable meal is rarely found without a little luck or local knowledge. Most visitors tend to judge a book by its cover and flock to the nicer looking Mexican restaurants with the trendy crowds and expensive decor, ignoring some of the best comida north of the border.

Here are five small family-owned taco shops located all over the city guaranteed to fire up your taste buds for a low price and give you a bite of some real San Diegan culture.

1. El Indio Restaurant

After an impressive 75 years in business, El Indios life span is no accident. The food and portions at this family-owned restaurant and catering service are at the top of the charts. Their housemade tortilla chips and tamales are must-order specialties, but all of their foodfrom the pollo asado to the guacamoleis made fresh to order. Not to mention, this restaurant is the birthplace of the taquito.

Lines are almost guaranteed, but the chefs move quickly and youll be downing first class Mexican food in no time. The wait only highlights the high demand. Its conveniently situated a short five-minute drive from San Diegos international airport, making it the perfect first stop for any incoming visitor.

2. La Perla Cocina

About three doors down from the Pacific Beach boardwalk, La Perla is an ideal spot to get a bite after a day at the beach. There might be a few surfers or PB locals feasting at the outdoor counter, but the restaurant remains uncrowded so its unlikely that youll have to wait to place your order. They serve an impressive selection of gargantuan burritos like the california and the addiction.

The restaurants hole-in-the-wall vibes compliment the flavor of La Perlas expansive menu, packed with everything from ceviche to steak plates. The taco shops rough exterior might dissuade some customers, but the food speaks for itself and anyone thats eaten there is guaranteed to be back again. It scores over 4 stars on both Yelp and TripAdvisor, and while it isnt the most popular restaurant in San Diego, it dishes out some of the best food you can get in the city.

3. Los Dos Pedros

Los Dos Pedros sits on a street corner in Bird Rock. Order a basket of carne asada fries to share with someone and bask in the wonderfully greasy combination of guacamole, diced steak, cotija and shredded cheese, pico de gallo, and sour cream. While their lunches and dinners are on par with any Mexican kitchen in The States, their breakfast is what buys loyal customers. You can watch your bacon sizzle on the grill as the chefs fry up eggs, sausage, and potatoes and wrap everything up in a steaming hot tortilla. Theres no better way to start the day. Grab your sizzling hot burrito and a cup of joe to go and walk over to Tourmaline, a world-famous surf break, less than a mile away to watch the locals tear it up while you eat breakfast.

4. The Taco Stand

This spot is situated on the busy Pearl Street in upscale La Jolla. Despite the expensive homes and chain restaurants surrounding it, The Taco Stand stays true to its customers and offers an incredible meal. Their Al Pastor street tacos are one of a kind, marinated in a unique spicy and savory sauce and garnished with guacamole, diced onion, cilantro, and a slice of pineapple. Dont forget to take advantage of their salsa bar; their cilantro and chipotle salsas turn an already fantastic dish into a delicacy. If youre not too stuffed after the tacos, ask for a churro and watch them shape the dough, fry it, and dust it with cinnamon and brown sugar while you wait, wondering if youll ever feel hunger again.

5. Nicos

Easily the biggest hole in the wall on the list, Nicos sits on Newport Avenue in Ocean Beach. Not a regular tourist destination, Ocean beachor OBis mainly only visited by surfers and locals trying to get away from the visitors. If you do find yourself in OB, be sure to check out Nicos. Just down the street from the world-renowned burger joint, Hodads, Nicos always has a line of surfers, hippies, and anyone with an appetite waiting to place an order. The walls are decorated with shots of big wave surfers and the register is cash only. If you wouldnt mind getting away from high society for a bite to eat, go revel in the glory of a Nicos carne asada burrito. The locals might glare at you a little, but youll be too full to care.

Alec Walsh is a freelance writer who lives and dies by the avocado.
In late February, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office published a patent application from Samsung that reveals new sensors are coming to the side of the Gear VR headset that will be able to detect a user's in-air gesture and cause a cursor on the display to click on an item, icon, photo, movie and so forth so as to open an app or choose a photo or other item without using any physical buttons on the headset.

Because Apple has a secret team working on a VR Headset of one kind or another, staying on top of what the competition could be working on will help us understand how VR headsets in general could be advancing in the future.

Samsung's patent FIG. 4C noted above illustrates an example of a sensor's line of sight directed away from the user's head by a light turning element. For more on this invention, see Patently Mobile's full report here.




Im enormously gratified to watch as Utah (and, by extrapolation, its predominantly Mormon population) distinguishes itself, while still adhering to its fundamentally conservative values and political orientation, from many others in the United States (notably a large proportion of conservative Evangelicals) in its response to Trumpism and to the plight of refugees.

First, in the wake of his defeats in Idaho and Wyoming, where Mormons constitute substantial voting blocs, Trump was handed his worst defeat of the primary season by the Republicans of Utah. And now theres this:

http://www.wsj.com/articles/with-welcoming-stance-conservative-utah-charts-its-own-course-on-refugees-1459125392

Which should be supplemented by this:

I had the honor, a few nights ago, of a visit from a couple who are being sent as senior Church service representatives to Erbil, in Iraqi Kurdistan. Theyll be replacing a couple that has already been working there, and their assignment is to coordinate and distribute humanitarian relief in that area. Theyre far from the only Latter-day Saints involved in such work.

May God bless them.

Im proud to be affiliated with this church.
Patna: The two-day meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) working committee began at the residence of senior party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi in Patna on Sunday.

On the opening day, Central Minister Radha Mohan Singh and party in-charge of Bihar Bhupendra Yadav were among many who were present on the occasion.

For the next two days, the BJP would brainstorm the party prospect in Bihar, possible alliance with other parties, and an overall strategy to corner Nitish-led Grand Alliance government in Bihar that, they said, had failed on all fronts.

Speaking on the occasion, party state President Mangal Pandey accused Chief Minister Nitish Kumar of putting his personal goals before the state's interest saying he was more invested in making the NDA government look bad than the development of the state.

"The Chief Minister wants to make sure the NDA government is not given credit for any developmental work. He wants to keep credits all to himself and that is all he worries about. All other talks about development are not only insincere; they are outright lies as well," Pandey said adding the BJP will expose the ill and twisted intents of Nitish Kumar by going holding meetings in all blocks and Panchayats.
Patna: Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, speaking at the five-day international conference on 'Development and Growth: Experience and Theories' to mark the 25th anniversary of the Asian Development Research Institute (ADRI) in Patna on Sunday, stuck to his usual rhetoric to bash Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to praise his own administration while reiterating his demand for special status for Bihar.

Comparing the Prime Minister to the Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, a man high on demagoguery and low on substance, Kumar, without taking the name of Modi, said that like Trump, some people were selling dreams that were anything but achievable.

"When they are asked tough questions about their plans, they try to switch the subject to irrelevant topics like building a wall (along the US-Mexico border) and other such stuffs. They do not want to talk about economy," Kumar said.

The Chief Minister then took the opportunity to reiterate his demand for special status for Bihar.

"I want to do something for Bihar but not much can be done without special status," he said adding Bihar may be poor but Biharis were not weak intellectually.

Displaying sign of relenting on the issue of special status, Kumar said that it did not matter whether it was a new package or an old package wrapped as new as long as it brought investment in Bihar.

"Special category status would spur investment in Bihar as it would allow tax exemptions and other benefits to the investors," he said.

Kumar, who is very close to Shaibal Gupta, ADRI secretary, praised the organization and its work on promoting Bihari sub-nationalism and conducting studies on Bihar's economic needs.

"ADRI has done a tremendous job in recording development work in Bihar and problems faced by the state. These reports are very useful if the government is serious about development," he said.
"We're not used to seeing growth in our check business," said Deluxe's Tracey Engelhardt, who reports a 6% to 7% increase in revenue for check orders from businesses and consumers in each of the last three quarters, driven by various factors originating from the pandemic.
Leading Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami battles coma, cancer

03/28/16 Source: Radio Zamaneh

After Iran's master musician Mohammadreza Shajarian was said to have fallen victim to cancer last month, it was also announced that prominent Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami is also fighting cancer.



Abbas Kiarostami



Kiarostami reportedly went into a coma following bleeding brought on by intestinal cancer and while he has recovered from the coma, he is still under treatment in a hospital in Iran.

The latest reports indicate that Kiarostami is recovering from the bleeding attack and cancer treatments.

Physicians have told Iran's national TV broadcaster that Kiarostami underwent a successful surgical procedure.

The Kiarostami family has not yet made any statements regarding his current state of health.

Abbas Kiarostami won the Palm D'Or at Cannes in 1997 for his Taste of Cherry and has become one of the internationally known faces of Iranian cinema, continuing his success both in Iran and abroad with films such as Ten and Certified Copy.
Iran increases punishment for keeping kids out of school

03/28/16 Source: Radio Zamaneh

Iran's Ministry of Education says the penalty for failing to register one's children in school has been increased to one million toumans in fines and up to three months in prison.



cartoon by Taher Shabani, Arman daily





A spokesman for the ministry told the national broadcaster on Saturday March 26 that by law, parents and guardians of school-age children are required to register them in school, and if they prevent their child from attending school, the ministry can file complaints against them that will be streamlined in judicial procedures.

The ministry issued a report last September indicating that 35,000 children at the elementary level and 180,000 at the middle school level are not attending school.

Another 3.2 million fail to attend school at the high school level.
Prince Charles wants to visit Iran: Sunday Times

03/28/16

Source: Press TV

Britain's Prince Charles plans to visit Iran for the first official royal trip in more than 40 years, The Sunday Times reports.

British government and royal officials are in talks with Iranian authorities about arranging a tour around the fall, the paper quoted a royal source as saying.

"It is hoped that Prince Charles' trip will help to boost trade and commercial links between the two countries, as well as marking a significant change in Anglo-Iranian relations," the report said.

Britain is viewed with much cynicism because of its colonial past in Iran where the sobriquet "old fox" is widely used as a reference to the UK.

In a litany of intrigues played on Iran, including a role in 1953 coup against the country's first democratically-elected government, Britain was seen as the real power behind the "peacock throne" of a succession of pliant shahs.

Philip Hammond became the first British foreign secretary to visit Iran for more than a decade in August last year and reopen the country's embassy in Tehran.

The visit came after Iran reached an international agreement on its nuclear program, leading to the lifting of sanctions on the country.

A spokesman at Prince Charles' Clarence House office said he was "very keen to visit Iran," but the tour was not confirmed yet.

"He hopes he would be able to use his role as a diplomat to further encourage the relationship and dialogue between the two countries," the spokesman said.

The prince first traveled to Iran in the capacity of the president of the British Red Cross charity in October 2004 to visit the Iranian city of Bam which was leveled in a strong earthquake.

According to The Sunday Times, Prince Charles hopes to meet President Hassan Rouhani and Iranian business leaders, as well as visiting ancient cities such as Isfahan and Shiraz should the trip go ahead.

Queen Elizabeth, the current queen's mother, was the last British royal to visit Iran in 1975, four years before the Islamic Revolution toppled the Western-backed Pahlavi dynasty.

Since then, Iran and Britain have had stormy relations, with diplomatic ties being cut three times.

In Tehran, Hammond said in August that there was no limit to what the two countries could achieve as mutual trust is restored.

Business Secretary Sajid Javid has announced plans to lead what is expected to be Britain's biggest-ever trade mission to Iran in May, citing "almost unlimited" opportunities in the country.

A delegation of leading companies from across the oil and gas, financial services, infrastructure and engineering sectors will reportedly accompany him in the visit.

UK Export Finance, the government's export credit agency, has signed a memorandum of understanding with its Iranian counterpart, the Export Guarantee Fund of Iran to facilitate financing.
Iran president to visit Austria for talks

03/28/16 Source: Press TV

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani plans to pay an official two-day visit to Austria to hold talks with the country's senior officials on ways to improve relations, particularly in the economic sector.

Heading a high-ranking politico-economic delegation, Rouhani will leave Tehran for Vienna on March 30 at the official invitation of Austrian President Heinz Fischer, Iranian president's deputy chief of staff for communications and information, Parviz Esmaeili, said on Sunday.

He added that the two sides are expected to finalize a roadmap for strengthening economic cooperation.

The Iranian president is scheduled to hold talks with his Austrian counterpart and Chancellor Werner Faymann. He will also attend an economic meeting in the presence of Fischer and economic activists as well as representatives of the two countries' private sectors, he said.

Esmaeili added that Iranian and Austrian officials will sign several documents for cooperation and memoranda of understanding in different fields in the presence of the two countries' presidents.

The Austrian president paid a visit to Tehran in September 2015 at the head of a 240-member delegation with the purpose of discussing ways to improve Tehran-Vienna relations.

Fischer's trip to Tehran came 11 years after then president, Thomas Klestil, traveled to Tehran.

The exchange of visits between Iranian officials and world leaders are taking place following the implementation of the nuclear agreement, dubbed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which was reached between Iran and the P5+1 group of countries in July 2015.

After Iran and the P5+1 group of countries -- the United States, France, Britain, China and Russia plus Germany -- started to implement the JCPOA on January 16, all nuclear-related sanctions imposed on Iran by the European Union, the UN Security Council and the US were lifted. Iran has, in return, put some limitations on its nuclear activities.
A year ago, Microsoft rolled into its Build developers conference on a wave of momentum. A series of public Windows 10 betas had fans cheering, and Microsoft promised that its platform would save Windows phones and PCs alike.

But now its 2016, and the confetti has long since blown away. At this weeks Build, which kicks off Wednesday morning, app developers will demand to know how Microsoft plans to deliver on its promises. Specifically, theyll want the status of tools that port apps from Android and iOS to Windows, along with details on how they can monetize those apps.

These are very developer-facing issues, but dont expect an end to the razzle-dazzle, either, as Microsoft should use Build 2016 to talk up HoloLens in earnest. And behind it all? Microsoft will dig into Redstone, the next branch of Windows 10, and the platform upon which everything Microsoft rests.

Windows moves into Redstone territory

Windows will always be a central focus of Build, and the conversation is now turning toward Redstone, the next iteration of Windows. Windows 10 is the last version of Windows, and the first piece of Redstone should be rolled out as a major update to Windows 10 later this year.

Sources close to Microsoft have indicated that well see some fairly significant Windows 10 news during the keynote. Specifics havent yet leaked, but its worth noting that Windows 10 Insiders are already using the so-called rs or Redstone build, and what Microsoft has disclosed indicates we may see some major facelifts to various Windows 10 appsMaps, for example.

Microsofts Maps app features a redesigned interface.

Rich Turner, a product manager for Windows, tweeted (then deleted) that Build attendees are going to freak out over Redstones new capabilities. Possibly a smarter Cortana, maybe?

And dont forget: While Windows 10 is now almost nine months old, Microsoft still hasnt completed its year of Windows. For example, Windows 10 IoT for embedded devices has yet to formally launch. So we expect that sometime during the two-day Build conference, Microsoft will show us greater synergy between Windows 10 and smart home devices and maybe cars?

The future of Windows Mobile

Developers are still looking to Microsoft for a concrete vision of its Windows Mobile phone platform. Indeed, since Microsoft announced the Lumia 950/XL and Windows 10 Mobile late last year, Microsofts mobile market share has continued to fallits now down to about 1 percent.

So now, in 2016, Microsoft appears to be positioning third-party phones like the HP Elite X3 as its future. Like a similar phone from Acer, the Elite X3 is aimed at large companies that buy hardware in fleet purchases. As such, the Elite X3 is is positioned as the perfect Windows Mobile companion for sharing an ecosystem with Surface tablets, Windows 10 notebooks, and pure enterprise solutions like Azure and the Surface Hub.

Microsoft has begun moving many older phones to Windows 10 Mobile.

Positioning Windows Phone as the best phone for business seems like one of the few smartphone strategies Microsoft has left. So if I were to look in my optimistic crystal ball, it might tell me that Microsoft will use Build to reveal that its working on a new productivity-oriented smartphone that will complement its existing Surface tablet line. The fabled Surface Phone, in other words. I dont think well hear anything about new Lumia phones, save for quiet confirmations that the era of Microsofts consumer phones has ended.

Apps, apps, apps

This Wednesday, Microsoft will inevitably give us a status update on its so-called bridges: tools that developers can use to port their apps from iOS and other platforms to Windows.

Project Astoria, the Android-to-Windows bridge, may be dead, but Microsoft has now shifted its attentions to Project Islandwood, the iOS-to-Windows bridge that Microsoft open-sourced last fall. Officially, Islandwood is still in a 0.1 Preview state as of last week, but its likely well see an incremental announcement or a more concrete timetable beyond simply coming soon. Xamarin, Microsofts recent acquisition, will play a big role here too.

Monument Valley is one of the few top apps that appears on the Windows platform, as well as iOS and Android.

But its Project Centennial, which allows Win32 app developers to port their code to Microsofts Universal Windows Platform, that might capture some headlines. Its somewhat unclear what significance UWP apps now play in the Windows world, and discussions of UWP naturally lead into how Microsoft will allow developers to modify UWP code; whether UWP apps can be sold on third-party app stores; and to what extent UWP apps will coexist along existing Win32 apps. It seems like Microsofts going to begin selling UWP apps hard. Will developers buy in?

Is HoloLens a toy or a tool?

One question I think developers are going to want answered is whether Windows 10 apps will truly scale across various hardware platforms, including the much-ballyhooed HoloLens. Tablets, phones, even the Surface Hub are just different-sized screens, but the HoloLens represents a dramatically different way of interacting with the world.

Microsoft An image showing what it could look like for two designers collaborating on a single digital model using HoloLens

There hasnt been a lot said on the technical limitations of the HoloLens, and Microsoft needs to set some expectations: Is a UWP app like Quantum Break playable on the HoloLens? What about Netflix? Or Fresh Paint? And how is an augmented reality experience superior to virtual reality, like the new Oculus Rift?

Office as a platform, too

Microsofts vision of Office 2016 parallels that of Windows 10 itself: a greater degree of interconnectedness among apps, as well as more ways for third-party apps and services to be built right in. Many thousands of businesses have bought Office, making any service that connects to it that much more valuable.

Microsoft Collaboration and connectivity have always been part of Office; now, Office plans to try to lure more third-party development.

Microsofts Office app store, though, has bombed harder than its own Windows app store. Undaunted, Microsoft has retrenched with specific services like Uber and EverNote that directly connect to Office Web apps, and has Office Connectors that help serve the same purpose. Its unclear whether Microsoft can truly convince developers to make the effort to connect to Office, but by doing so Microsoft can make Office more sticky, and keep justifying those annual Office 365 subscriptions.

Much more about the cloud

At PCWorld, weve always drawn a line at covering Azure and Microsofts enterprise services, preferring to leave those to our colleagues at enterprise sites like Computerworld. But as far as Microsofts future is concerned, the cloudits Azure business, its new business intelligence technology, and the connective tissue of data moving back and forth between servicesstill drive a huge chunk of Microsofts revenue.

The bottom line? Windows 10 was a hell of a party, and Microsoft would like to keep the good times rolling. Developers, though, want to know whats in it for them. Lets see if they get their answers by the time Build 2016 winds down on Thursday night.
Updates with comments from Senate ceremony.

In special ceremonies, state lawmakers Monday, March 28 applauded and honored representatives of agencies that responded to the Dec. 2 terrorist attack in San Bernardino.

San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon and San Bernardino Police Chief Jarrod Burguan were among those who accepted special proclamations during ceremonies on the floors of the Assembly and Senate in Sacramento.

Prior to that, lawmakers representing San Bernardino praised the first responders to the attack at the Inland Regional Center that killed 14 and injured more than 20.

These individuals and more than 300 of their fellow first responders acted swiftly when tragedy struck and we are here to thank them for their bravery, said Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, D-San Bernardino.

The first responders showed (an) example of strength that did not go unnoticed, showing the world what it means to be San Bernardino strong, said state Sen. Mike Morrell, R-Rancho Cucamonga.

The one constant through all of this was the bravery and amazing organization of the hundreds upon hundreds that kept calm, tended to the injured and re-assured all of us that we were safe in their hands, said state Sen. Connie Leyva, D-Chino. Morrell and Leyva represent the city of San Bernardino.

Other agencies honored in Sacramento included the Redlands Police Department; American Medical Response; Arrowhead Regional Medical Center; Loma Linda University Medical Center and the San Bernardino County Fire Department.Also present were San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis and San Bernardino City Council members Virginia Marquez, John Valdivia and Fred Shorett.

Mondays ceremonies were organized by the Inland Empire Caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers representing Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
I read with great interest and approval about the Muslim community of the Inland Empire condemning the heinous acts of ISIS in this latest senseless attack in Brussels. The ideas freely expressed by Muslim leaders in our community  that these attacks had nothing to do with Islam and all to do with mindless murderers are statements needed to be made by all Muslims.

That is a great first step in eliminating the unwarranted feelings of many Americans against Muslims. But there must be more if we are to peacefully co-exist. Muslim leaders must advocate and insist that the peaceful Muslim community has an obligation, a duty, to observe and report any in their community who are known to favor and/or participate in violent jihad. And to do so as Americans who just happen to be Muslims.

Just a few instances where such actions have been taken would begin to form a needed bond among all of us Americans.

Larry Palmer

Norco

Reject the NRAs lies

Re: Sheriffs cool to guns & ammo restrictions [Opinion, March 25]: I filed the Safety for All act, an initiative that will be on the November ballot, in order to keep guns and ammo away from dangerous criminals. Your editorial opposing the initiative is widely off target because it parrots the NRAs deceptive spin and scare tactics.

The rhetoric of the NRA and its allies is tired, transparent and dangerously inaccurate. For decades the NRA has tried to paint every single common-sense reform as an attempt to seize guns from law-abiding citizens.

Theyre wrong. Again. Thats why Im taking the Safety for All initiative directly to the people  so the voters can stand up to the NRA.

Gavin Newsom

Sacramento

California lieutenant governor
Handyman Luis Loera was heading to a job with Paul Joe Lesh, his friend of 20 years, when Lesh mentioned a driver behind them wanted to pass.

As the white SUV began drove by the slow-moving sedan Lesh was driving on a rural road south of Interstate-10 in Banning, Loera heard a bang  then the vehicle was gone. The sedan hit a parked car and stopped.

It was then, Loera testified Monday, March 28, that he felt pain in his neck  and saw his 66-year-old friend had been mortally wounded in the face.

Loera gave his testimony at the Riverside County Courthouse in Banning during a preliminary hearing for accused shooter, 34-year-old James Paul Diaz, Jr.

Under questioning by Deputy District Attorney Daniel DeLimon, Loera calmly showed where two pellets from the same shotgun blast remain lodged in his neck.

It felt like hot razor blades going through my skin, he said.

Diaz, of East Hemet, is accused of going on an hour-long shooting spree in Banning in September, shooting to death two people and injuring three others, according to testimony.

Judge W. Charles Morgan found at the end of the hearing that there was sufficient evidence to hold Diaz for trial on two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder and three counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Three additional charges  two counts of child cruelty and one of felony vandalism  were dropped.

The murder charges include special circumstances that make Diaz eligible for the death penalty, but the Riverside County District Attorneys Office has not yet decided whether to pursue it.

The hearing  including testimony from Banning and Beaumont police officers and two victims  laid out the sequence of events of Sept. 26 between roughly 11:30 a.m., when the first shooting occurred in Banning, to just after 12:30 p.m., when Beaumont police stopped Diazs white SUV.

No motive for the random attacks came out in questioning.

Authorities say Diaz fired a shotgun at two vehicles at different locations near Hargrave Avenue and Lincoln Street on Bannings south side, killing Lesh and Benjamin Franklin Benny Johnson, 34, also of Banning.

Later, Erendira Inzunza was parked on North San Gorgonio Avenue across from Central Middle School. A driver passed her, made a U-turn and shot twice into her vehicle, Banning police Officer Brenton Bulrice testified. She was cut by flying glass; her grandchildren in the back seat were not injured.

Dias is then accused of choking a man inside a vehicle at a minimart on West Ramsey Street near 22nd Street in Banning.

Authorities say Diaz next drove west to Beaumont. Outside a church, he encountered a parked car with two young children inside, and smashed a window. The childrens mother stopped him and called 911 as he drove away.

Diaz was taken into custody at Eighth Street and American Avenue. Inside the vehicle, police found a shotgun and a blue and white bandana, similar to one used in the choke attack.

Diaz, married and the father of three young children, had been a seasonal firefighter and more recently worked in construction.

Diaz has two previous convictions for violent felonies, according to the criminal complaint. He was convicted in 1998 of shooting at a dwelling and in 2014 of battery inflicting serious bodily injury in San Diego County.



PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

Two killed in random shooting attack, authorities say

Message of forgiveness for shooting spree suspect from victims widow

Mom, fearing for her kids lives, confronted rampage suspect

Shooting spree suspect charged with murder, attempted murder

He almost killed me, 2014 victim says of shooting spree suspect
Rogers

Fred Rogers, star of Public Television's "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," rehearses with some of his puppet friends in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Jan. 4, 1984.

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, file)

LATROBE, Pa. (AP) -- When he died in 2003, Fred Rogers was described in many headlines as gentle, beloved, kind and -- of course -- neighborly.

But how about radical? Counter-cultural? Trouble-maker?

Scholars and others are using such adjectives as they assess the legacy of the late creator and host of the long-running "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood."

For all his much-parodied gentle voice and manner, the Latrobe native actually worked from a steely social conscience. He used his program, with its non-threatening benign puppets, songs and conversation, to raise provocative topics such as war, peace, race, gender and poverty with his audience of preschoolers and their parents -- patiently guiding them across the minefields of late 20th century political and social change.

Rogers was no "meek and mild pushover," wrote Michael Long, author of "Peaceful Neighbor: Discovering the Countercultural Mister Rogers."

Rogers was "a quiet but strong American prophet who, with roots in progressive spirituality, invited us to make the world into a counter-cultural neighborhood of love," said Long, a professor of religious studies and peace and conflict studies at Elizabethtown College.

An early example could be seen on a recent afternoon in a classroom at the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media on the campus of St. Vincent College in Latrobe. The center was formed to carry on his legacy, and that includes learning to be bold advocates when needed, said its co-director, Junlei Li.

Li, a professor of psychological science, is teaching a seminar this semester titled, "What Would Fred Rogers Do?"

Many of the students had watched "Mister Rogers" as preschoolers. Now as adults, they have been studying such broadcasts in an intensive course that blends psychology, child development and -- apropos for a show produced by an ordained Presbyterian minister -- theology.

For a recent class, the students viewed an archived "Neighborhood" program. The black-and-white video and the characters' hairstyles reflected its 1968 vintage, but the onscreen conflicts seemed to arise straight out of today's newscasts with their high-definition anxiety.

The puppet King Friday XIII was posting border guards, installing barbed-wire fences and drafting passersby to keep out the those fomenting social change.

"Down with the changers!" he proclaimed. "Because we're on top!"

The episode aired when other television programs were bringing the Vietnam War into American living rooms, and when "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" had just gone into national distribution from its Pittsburgh production base. It was part of weeklong series on conflict, change and distrust.

King Friday's declaration of national emergency to preserve the status quo "is a political statement," said Li. "It's not a plot line merely to entertain children. It's the idea that when we resist change, it's because we want to maintain our position."

To underscore the episode's relevance, Li interspersed news clips of the current presidential campaign, with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's pledge to bar Muslim immigrants and wall off migrants from Mexico.

In the end, the neighborhood was saved, but only through the bold civil disobedience of King Friday's subjects.

"People who want change are often equated to troublemakers," said Li.

"I know it's odd to say it, but my understanding of Fred Rogers' legacy is that he was a troublemaker in the same tradition as Dr. Martin Luther King or Bobby Kennedy or Dr. Hanna-Attisha (the pediatrician-hero of the Flint, Mich., water crisis), who saw something they thought was wrong and decided to take action. Fred had the opposite style. He didn't go on marches, he was not confrontational, but nevertheless he had a ground on which he stood and he wanted to do something about it."

Fred Rogers poses on the Pittsburgh set of his television show "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," in this 1996 publicity photo.

Rogers used his program in many other ways to navigate the minefield of late 20th century social transformation.

He wore an apron and ironed clothes on a midday broadcast set in a house, when most men would have been at work, modeling a revolution in gender roles. The puppet Lady Elaine Fairchilde anchored a newscast long before Barbara Walters did, and she rocketed into space a decade before Sally Ride broke the glass stratosphere.

Rogers even referred to God as female in a prayer, which wasn't lost on writers of protest letters.

Rogers and regular cast member Francois Clemmons, an African-American, dipped their bare feet in a wading pool on a 1969 broadcast, when bitter conflicts over legally segregated swimming pools were still a recent memory.

When politicians in the 1980s spoke of welfare recipients as lazy and unworthy of government help, Rogers portrayed hard-working parents who still couldn't afford all that their children wanted or needed.

Rogers broadcast public-service announcements on helping children deal with news of war and other tragedy, and he advocated for legislation that would allow at least one parent in a military family to remain with his or her children rather than be deployed.

Rogers created, hosted and directed his program at WQED in Pittsburgh from its mid-1960s local premier to its completion after three decades, 900 scripts, 230 songs, millions of viewers and countless magic trolley rides later.
UPDATE:

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The U.S. Capitol Police are telling staff in the Capitol complex to shelter in place after a report of gunshots being fired in the Capitol Visitors Center.

The White House also was put on lockdown because of the report.

The situation was apparently contained to the Visitors Center.

A Capitol Police spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

After earlier report of gunfire, D.C. police say no active threat to public https://t.co/hwb05vmPyT pic.twitter.com/UIGC5VSu8n  The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) March 28, 2016

The person believed to be the gunman at the U.S. Capitol complex has been shot by police, according to authorities. https://t.co/0zVpbOW1wX  The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) March 28, 2016

BREAKING: Capitol officials say 1 Capitol police officer shot, not seriously, shooter in custody.  The Associated Press (@AP) March 28, 2016

Shooting at U.S. capitol visitor center. Shooter reportedly "in custody." Capitol police officer injured - https://t.co/oTbDWtpo5H  Jon Levine (@LevineJonathan) March 28, 2016

BREAKING: U.S. Capitol building on lockdown after security threat https://t.co/c6SX8GHWd7 pic.twitter.com/MTRM7tgpcL  NBC News (@NBCNews) March 28, 2016

BREAKING: Capitol police urge people outside of Capitol complex to take cover: MSNBC  Reuters Top News (@Reuters) March 28, 2016
Just before 11 p.m. on May 12, 2015, Derek Twyman drove through Gettysburg, unaware police were looking for him.

When he saw flashing lights behind him, he pulled over into the parking lot of the College Apartments off West Railroad Street. What happened next was captured on Gettysburg police Officer Christopher Officer Folster's body camera.

Folster walks up to Twyman's Lincoln Town Car and asks him if he has a PFA filed against him.

Twyman acknowledges he does, and the officer says, "Well, you've been calling her."

"I have not," Twyman replies. (Court records say Twyman had called the victim more than 70 times in two days and sent three messages to her through Facebook.)

Twyman then explains his side of the story, seeming upset but calm, telling Folster the woman was contacting him, not the other way around.

"I'm trying to stay away from her. She's trying to get me in trouble," Twyman says.

Three minutes and 40 seconds into the nearly seven-minute video, Folster tells Twyman he has a sworn statement signed by the victim that he violated his PFA. Folster tells Twyman to put out his cigarette and step out of the car.

Fourteen seconds later, as Twyman tells the officer he didn't do anything and wants to call his father, Folster pulls his Taser and aims it at Twyman.

"Get out of the car, now," he says, raising his voice.

Twyman fails to obey, prompting Folster to issue louder and louder commands. He draws his Taser.

"Get out of the car. Now!" he shouts.

The officer uses his Taser to zap Twyman at least five times amid Twyman's screams of, "You're hurting me! You're hurting me!"

"That's the point," Folster says between electrical shocks. "Get out of the car and I'll stop hurting you." It eventually takes four officers to subdue and arrest Twyman, who is subsequently charged with resisting arrest and harassment.

'He-said, she-said'

Did Twyman become belligerent and resist arrest, as police say?

"Any time it's a 'he-said, she-said' situation with a police officer, we're going to lose," said Adams County public defender Jason Pudleiner, who represented Twyman at trial. "Every time."

Except this time was different -- because of Folster's body cam.

Though the officer got on the stand and testified that Twyman -- who outweighed him by more than 200 pounds -- fought him and resisted arrest, an Adams County jury disagreed.

But the jury saw the video as well. You can judge for yourself. The full, unedited video is at the end of this story. Be warned -- there's lots of explicit language here.

Becoming standard gear

Body cameras are slowly becoming a standard piece of gear, much like the dashboard-mounted cameras most cruisers are equipped with. With police under increased scrutiny these days, officials say the footage caught on body cams will show that most officers are out there doing their often-risky jobs in a courteous and professional manner.

Body cams are in wide use throughout California, and according to the Los Angeles Times, the LAPD is one of many agencies across the country looking to expand their use in the wake of several high-profile killings by officers that generated greater public scrutiny of policing.

According to the Baltimore Sun, 500 of the city's police officers will begin wearing body cameras in May in the wake of the death of Freddie Gray. The rest of the force will join them in 2018.

"I firmly believe that the cameras will help bring a greater sense of accountability and trust," Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake told the Baltimore Sun.

Unresolved issues

While often backing up the accounts of police, law-enforcement officials quickly learned footage from body cams can cut both ways. In some circumstances, videos may exonerate defendants, as in Derek Twyman's case.

And those in law enforcement are still working there way through issues both legal and practical.

First, there are privacy issues. Pennsylvania's wiretap act prohibits police officers from recording inside someone's home. So now, when an officer enters a home, the cameras has to be turned off.

And that's not the only time during an eight-hour shift when police would have to turn the cameras on or off. Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association Executive Director Richard Long points out it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to have the camera rolling during mundane tasks like driving, eating lunch and writing reports.

Then there are the unanswered questions surrounding the data:How do you store it? How long do you keep it? Who will have access to it and when?

"You can accumulate a lot of video very quickly," Long said. "That's going to be a challenge."

Long said the concerns with body cameras do not exist with the current dashboard-mounted cameras in most police cruisers today, since what they record is generally outdoors and "in the public arena." There are no current Pennslyvania statutes regarding how those videos can be used, since filming is in public, but the state Open Records Office considers the dashcam videos to be public records. Commonwealth Court recently upheld that determination when state police refused a Centre County woman's request for video from a crash scene.

Finally, there is officer morale.

With the exception of entertainers, most people wouldn't be too keen on having their entire workday recorded. Police officers are no exception, and wearing a body camera, every day, every working hour, may seem like an eight-hour episode of "Cops," with the officer potentially under constant scrutiny.

Seeking uniform policy

Right now, individual departments, along with prosecutors, are attempting to answer these questions.

A uniform policy would be useful in putting departments on the same page when using cameras, and it could be coming soon, Long said.

"Several other states already have various policies about body-worn cameras for police," Long said. "We have a team reviewing what's being done outside the state and even with some of the police departments in Pennsylvania that are already using body cameras."

Lawmakers in California are currently weighing that issue, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Seattle's police department posts redacted versions of its videos on its YouTube channel, but at the same time, lawmakers in South Carolina decided to prevent the release of body-cam videos all together.

More positive than not

Many in law enforcement believe that, overall, body cameras will turn out to be a good thing.

Adams County District Attorney Brian Sinnett said the evidence gathered from body cameras tends to corroborate the statements made by the police and witnesses to crimes.

Beyond that, when jurors see these videos at trial, they catch a glimpse of what's really going on in their towns and what the police are doing to protect them every day.

"It's one thing to say a person tussled with the police," Sinnett said. "But when jurors see it on video, it brings a reality to criminal episodes."

Long agreed.

"We're confident that it's going to show police officers are doing outstanding work under challenging circumstances every day," Long said. "That will be the overriding message that comes from the use of body-worn cameras."

Local trials

Shortly after Twyman's acquittal, Gettysburg police stopped using body cameras.

Adams County District Attorney Brian Sinnett says the department's decision had nothing to do with Twyman. Gettysburg police were using the cameras on a trial basis and the test period had expired.

Similarly, York City Police started a three-month trial with 14 body cameras several weeks ago, and Carlisle Police are expected to equip some of their officers with cameras soon, too.

Sinnett sent a letter to the county's police departments shortly after the acquittal, telling police that a policy is in the works that departments can choose to follow when implementing the use of body cameras.

Researching a new policy has nothing to do with Twyman's acquittal, though, Sinnett added.

"I support body cameras and I want to use them," Sinnett said.

The Twyman verdict

Twyman, 28, of Gettysburg, went to trial on Oct. 15, 2015, in Adams County Court, and after less than two hours of deliberations, the jury found him not guilty of all charges.

Twyman did not respond to efforts for comment, but his current attorney, Devon Jacob, sent an email asking the Patriot-News and PennLive to cease trying to communicate with his client.

While Twyman has not filed a civil suit against Gettysburg police to date, Jacob specializes in civil rights law, including police brutality, unlawful arrest and unlawful use of force, according to his website. He recently settled a police-brutality lawsuit in York County.

"I accept the jury's verdict," Sinnett says, "but I still believe he was guilty of resisting arrest."

Sinnett was not yet district attorney when his office decided to prosecute Twyman's case, but he was in on that decision and said he would make the same choice today.

The defense position that the jury's decision to acquit was directly related to the video is a strong assumption, he said.

"To me, that's speculation, and I don't agree with it," Sinnett said. "I believed in that case and I still do. I would try that case tomorrow if the circumstances presented themselves."

Twyman's trial attorney disagrees.

"It was indispensable," Pudleiner said. "We wouldn't have won if we didn't have the video."
Stefanie-Watson-missing.jpeg

Stefanie Wilbert Watson

(submitted)

The man accused of brutally killing a midstate woman 34 years ago was finally sentenced for the crime today in Maryland.

John Ernest Walsh, 71, accepted a plea deal with a sentence of 33 years in the murder of Stefanie Wilbert Watson, who was 27 when she was killed in Laurel, Md. It will be consecutive to an unrelated sentence for raping two women.

John Walsh

Chris Torres of Mechanicsburg, Stefanie's cousin, attended the court proceeding Monday in Prince George's County, Md.

"We were happy. One chapter is closed," Torres said. "It was essentially a death sentence - I doubt he will ever get out," she added.

At the hearing Monday, Torres said Walsh agreed to the plea bargain and agreed that his DNA tied him to the crime.

"It's never going to end. At least we made it this far - I didn't think it would ever happen," Torres said of her cousin's killer being held accountable.

But she and family members are still hoping Stefanie's remains will be recovered. Only her skull was found, dumped along a rural road.

Torres said they will continue to work with detectives on the case and are hoping Walsh will decide to give up information.

The cold case was solved when Walsh was tied to Stefanie's murder through DNA evidence in 2013. Blood found in Stefanie's car was matched to Walsh, who was convicted of two counts rape in 1969 and sentenced to 72 years in prison.

Walsh was paroled in 1980 and remained free until he violated his probation in 1989, and it was during this time police believe he murdered Watson, said John Erzen, spokesman for the office of the state's attorney in Prince George's County.

With developments in DNA testing, police tested blood samples in the car and found a match with Walsh. Erzen said police and prosecutors spent 15 months working to ensure they had a strong case before seeking an indictment against Walsh, which came in 2014.

On July 22, 1982, Watson left her Laurel apartment for an evening shift as a receptionist at Laurel Hospital, but she never arrived.

Torres said Walsh, who walked into the courtroom with the aid of a walker, agreed to the plea bargain sentence and his attorney's representation, but he didn't say anything else.

Torres said she didn't speak at the hearing, and Stefanie's sister from California didn't attend to speak.

"She didn't want to give him the satisfaction. Why give him the gratification, knowing how much he took from everyone," Torres said.
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A male victim showed up to a local hospital Monday afternoon after he was shot on Derry Street in Harrisburg, according to Dauphin County emergency dispatch.

The man showed up to Community General Osteopathic Hospital at about 4:15 p.m., but dispatch did not immediately know how old the victim is or his condition. Dispatch also did not immediately know in which block of Derry Street the shooting occurred, but confirmed it happened in the city.

This incident marks the 10th shooting in Harrisburg since March 10. Two of the shootings were fatal.

The latest fatal shooting claimed the life of 36-year-old John Thomas Carter III Saturday. Carter, a father of four, is the nephew of Harrisburg Police Chief Thomas Carter.

Carter's death marked the city's fifth homicide of the year.

No additional information was immediately available.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
A multi-vehicle crash is slowing traffic on Pennsylvania Route 23 in Lancaster County.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, the crash occurred around 6:09 a.m. Monday on Route 23 west between exits to U.S. Route 30 west to York and Harrisburg and U.S. Route 30 east to Coatesville.

All lanes are closed.

This post has been updated to show a portion of the highway is closed.

For more traffic information, follow live traffic updates, accident reports and road closures below from PennDOT, Total Traffic Network and other Twitter sources.

Get a look at conditions on local roads -- via PennDOT traffic cameras -- anytime here on PennLive. For Pennsylvania Turnpike updates and possible travel delays visit the Turnpike website here.

Tweet us at @pennlive with any incidents you see on your commute or send a submission to submissions@pennlive.com.
J.T. Carter memorial

A makeshift memorial at Woodbine and Susquehanna streets in Harrisburg, where John Thomas Carter III collpased after being shot on March 26, 2016.

The Saturday shooting death of John Thomas Carter III, the nephew of Harrisburg Police Chief Thomas Carter, is being closely followed as one of those stories that shows how street crime can touch everyone.

John Thomas Carter was shot and killed Saturday afternoon on the 200 block of Woodbine Street.

But John Thomas Carter, in his life, was more than someone's nephew.

He was, according to friends and family members speaking Sunday, a friend, father and father figure who encouraged others, loved to laugh and was quick with a joke.

He was a body-builder who was proud of his cut physique, as a tour through his Facebook posts readily shows. His friends knew him as "Hulk," and to see the photos is to understand why.

And finally, Carter was, the public record shows, a man who struggled getting out from under the shadow of a criminal past that included drug arrests in 2003, 2006 and 2009.

Carter, at age 36, was still trying to make that life turn, it appears, when he was shot by an unknown assailant Saturday afternoon near the intersection of Green and Woodbine streets in Harrisburg's Uptown neighborhood.

According to witness accounts, Carter was shot near the corner about 4:25 p.m., and then collapsed about 50 yards to the east at Woodbine's intersection with Susquehanna Street.

Few new facts emerged about the case Sunday, though PennLive learned that initial police dispatches describing two women fleeing from the scene likely were witness accounts of Carter's girlfriend rushing to his aid.

Carter grew up on Logan Street in Harrisburg, according to friends who stopped by to add to a makeshift memorial Sunday afternoon, attending city schools as well as the Scotland School for Veterans Children in Franklin County.

He had regular run-ins with city police as a young adult, including the three drug arrests in his twenties.

The last, according to Dauphin County court records, occurred in the summer of 2009. Carter would plead guilty in late 2010, when he was sentenced to two to four years in state prison.

What galled his friends most about his murder, both on-line and in person, was the fact that Carter - who brashly announced his last release from prison in a July 2015 Facebook post ("Da eagle has landed," Carter wrote) and was so pleased that he was free and clear of all supervision - only had a few months to build that new life.

"He was on the right path to get his life together," a childhood friend who identified himself only as Rob H. told PennLive, echoing Carrier's words.

"He was just trying to readjust in society and he couldn't... It was hard," Carter's cousin, Lakichia Carrier said, sobbing softly as she visited the memorial Sunday afternoon.

"He couldn't find employment all the time. It was just hard for him, but he wasn't a bad guy."

Carter had most recently been working at a local discount store, Carrier said, but was hopeful his prospects for landing a security job within the next few weeks.

Even though he had experienced his own bumps, his friends said, they appreciated that Carter had always been there to help them out.

"He inspired me," Carrier said.

"I have a master's degree. I have a double bachelor's degree, and he inspired me. He would always tell me: 'Don't give up.' I'd be all frustrated, call him. We talked all the time and, he would tell me: 'You got to keep pushing.'"

"No matter what. Keep pushing," she added.

Others said he was a good father despite his troubles, doing everything he could to provide for and be a role model for his four children when he was on the outside.

That's how Carrier said she will remember her cousin. With his kids.

"He was at my house before all this happened. Him, his girlfriend and his kids. He asked me to walk to Italian Lake with him... Go up to Italian Lake, walk around, and play with his kids," she said.

Carrier didn't make that trip, but said she'd call her cousin later. They never got to have that talk.

The mourners did not know what triggered Saturday's shooting. They just knew that the end result was another senseless death that cut their friend down before he had the chance to write his best chapters.

"Ain't nobody walking around here like Jesus," Rob H. said. "But nobody deserves to get taken out by a bullet."

"He wasn't a bad person," Carrier said. "He was in the wrong place at the wrong time."
Lancaster police are seeking a former Subway employee accused of burglarizing a city store last month.

Scott Allan London, 51, of Manheim Township, is accused of smashing out a store window and stealing cash from inside of the business. London was identified as the suspect of the burglary at around 5:50 a.m. on Feb 26 on the 200 block of North Queen Street through surveillance footage.

Scott Allan London, 51, of Lancaster, is accused of smashing out a store window and stealing cash from inside of the Subway on the 200 block of North Queen Street in Lancaster.

London is charged with a felony burglary count and a count of misdemeanor theft by unlawful taking. A warrant has been issued for his arrest. London has ties to Coatesville and York areas, police said.

Police ask anyone with information about the incident to contact Off. Adam Dommel at (717) 735-1795 dommela@police.co.lancaster.pa.us; 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.
Screen Shot 2016-03-28 at 3.10.26 PM.png

AccuWeather map March 28, 2016

(AccuWeather)

A wind advisory remains in effect until from 2 p.m. Monday through midnight tonight across central Pennsylvania.

Winds of 20-30 mph, with gusts of up to 55 mph are possible, said the National Weather Service at State College.

A wind advisory means there are sustained winds of 31-39 mph or gusts of 46-57 mph, said NWS. The strongest winds are expected into the evening.

There could be scattered tree and power line damage, and minor property damage is possible in the highest gusts.

Drivers of high-profile vehicles may also be impacted, and should consider avoiding areas of strong cross-winds. Residents should also secure outdoor objects that could be blown away.

The advisory includes about 30 counties, including Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry, Schuylkill and York counties.

For the rest of the week, sunny skies will last until Thursday, when rain moves in, but the weekend should be clear.

Here is the rest of the week's forecast:

Tonight: Mostly clear; low of 39. West wind 16 to 22 mph, with gusts up to 44 mph.

Tuesday: Sunny. High of 54; low of 32. West wind 13 to 17 mph; gusts up to 29 mph.

Wednesday: Sunny. High of 61; low of 44.

Thursday: Showers likely. High of 66; low of 53.

Friday: Showers likely. High of 66; low of 40.

Saturday: Mostly sunny. High of 56; low of 34.

Sunday: Mostly sunny. High of 43; low of 25.

For the latest forecasts, visit PennLive's weather page.

You can see live weather updates via the National Weather Service and other Twitter sources below.

Tweet us at @pennlive with photos of inclement weather at your place, incidents you see on your commute or send a submission to submissions@pennlive.com.
FILE - In this Feb. 1, 2013 file photo, TV journalist David Gregory arrives at ESPN The Magazine's "Next" Event in New Orleans. Gregory, a former NBC "Meet the Press" moderator, is joining CNN as a Washington-based political analyst. CNN said Monday, March 28, 2016, that Gregory will appear primarily on "New Day," the network's morning news show. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File)
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In this Monday, March 21, 2016 photo, Cuban President Raul Castro, right, lifts up the arm of President Barack Obama at the conclusion of their joint news conference at the Palace of the Revolution in Havana, Cuba. Brushing off decades of distrust, Obama and Castro shook hands, a remarkable moment for two countries working to put the bitterness of their Cold War-era enmity behind them. (AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa)
By Pete Thomas

It sounds like science fiction: tens of thousands of voracious, fast-growing fish escape from ocean pens in a foreign environment and begin migrating up the coast, wreaking havoc on native fisheries.

But this is really happening, as thousands of cobia, which are found in the Atlantic but unknown to the Eastern Pacific, were accidentally released from an Ecuadorian aquaculture facility during late summer.

They've since been detected off Colombia and Panama, and at least one scientist believes the "rogue" fish are headed to California, with potentially "horrifying" consequences.

The cobia have been migrating north at a rate of about 200 miles per month, according to UC Santa Barbara research biologist, Milton Love.

Love stated recently that there's a 50-50 chance that the cobia will reproduce along the way, and he added that water conditions will be prime for their arrival in Southern California this summer.

"The idea is intellectually interesting and vaguely horrifying at the same time," Love said. "This is the first time that Southern California waters potentially could have a large and voracious non-native species invade

"What effect that will have on the native fishes, no one knows. It might not have any observable effects or it might have considerable ones. A possible scenario is for these fish to become well-established and start chomping down on native fishes."

Cobia, which can measure 6 feet and weigh about 100 pounds, prey on crabs, fish and squid. They're also known to follow sharks and other large predators to scavenge on what they kill.

Cobia don't travel in schools except during spring to early fall spawning seasons, and prefer offshore (pelagic) waters. Their flesh is white and firm, making the fish ideal aquaculture specimens.

The cobia being reared off Ecuador were in netted pens that somehow broke open. Those fish are now considered invasive, and their potential impact remains unknown.

Ross Robertson, a Smithsonian scientist, noted that the lionfish, an Indo-Pacific species now abundant as an invasive and harmful species in the Caribbean, provides a compelling lesson about the strong adverse effects that alien marine fish can have on native ecosystems.

Robertson added, "As cobia is the only species in its family, which is most closely related to remoras or shark-suckers, it too represents an unusual type of predator for the tropical East Pacific, which only increases both the degree of uncertainty about its effects and the potential for major disruption of the area's ecosystems."

Love, author of Certainly More Than You Wanted to Know About the Fishes of the Pacific Coast, noted that California's crab fishery might be impacted, since crabs are a chief prey item for cobia.

The researcher said anglers might be the first to encounter cobia, which are an important angling species in the Atlantic and Caribbean (they're sometimes referred to as black salmon).

"You might expect to see cobia as summer migrants like yellowtail," Love said. "They seem to be able to compete well with other fish in the vicinity and are generalists as far as what they feed on. Here, they would be in competition with yellowtail, bonito or even with reef fishes like kelp bass."

To be sure, Southern California anglers will be delighted to catch cobia. But from a fisheries standpoint, their arrival will signal cause for concern.

Note: This story was published on GrindTv.com earlier this month; images are via Wikipedia
Samyn: 'Do what you can with what youve got left'
Bunnies gather before the big Easter parade (we can see the family resemblance). Read more

THERE WERE Mad Hatter-inspired top hats, handmade green-and-orange porkpies and bunny-bedecked sun caps.

But the best bonnet of all was the one worn by Joules Santos, according to the judges at this year's Easter Promenade on South Street. The 13-year-old Allentown girl wore a straw hat sprouting snapdragons and carnations amid spinning pinwheels, with strings of daisies hanging from its brim.

"You look for originality," said City Councilman Mark Squilla, who donned a pair of yellow rabbit ears to join the panel of judges at Sunday's event in his district. "You look at the smiles on their faces, the excitement."

The Best Easter Bonnet award was given out during the prize ceremony that capped the decidedly secular take on the Christian holiday, a parade said to be in its 85th year.

"It's a chance to dress up," said Henri David, the Philadelphia jeweler and Halloween-ball impresario who has organized and emceed the gathering since around the time it moved from the Rittenhouse Square area in the early 1980s. "It's the idea of wearing your finery, wearing your fun."

This year's Easter Promenade - perhaps due to the day's warm, sunny weather - drew especially large numbers, with organizers running out of bunny ears after giving away 1,100 pairs, said Kory Aversa, a spokesman for the South Street Headhouse District, the event's sponsor. Last year, about 400 pairs were given out.

Sunday's event began with a short parade along South Street, with David, Squilla, and Mayor Kenney leading the way. Parade music was supplied by the Philadelphia Freedom Band, which bills itself as the city's only LGBT marching band.

A small herd of performers in rabbit costumes - one on stilts - joined the procession, which ended at a stage on Second Street where Squilla and his fellow judges handed down their verdicts.

Prizes - baskets with candy and gift certificates for area businesses - went to the best-dressed participants from different age groups, as well as the best-bonneted. (Not all contestants were two-legged: A standard poodle wrapped in bands of flowers was named the best-dressed dog.)

David kept the event moving along, wearing a colorful outfit of rabbit-print pants, a bright paisley jacket with tails, and a purple sateen waistcoat. Rabbit dolls were lashed to his soaring candy-colored top hat, from which protruded sticks dangling translucent multicolored eggs.

"It's a great event," said Marlo Dilks, 34, who has been attending the Easter Promenade since an aunt brought her as a 2-year-old. "We love to get dressed up, we're Catholic, it's Easter."

Among the 20 family members with Dilks this year was her daughter Capri, whose pink faux-fur jacket over a pink gown earned her the prize for Best Dressed Little Girl.

Heather Connor said she strolled up to the event from Queen Village with her family, including her son Ronan, who had won the prize for Best Dressed Little Boy in 2003 when he was 2.

"It's a nice, fun family event," she said.
As Coca-Cola and PepsiCo executives work to stop Mayor Kenney's proposed soft-drink tax, they are fighting the latest battle in a war to reduce the share that their products pay in taxes.

In the late 1990s, the Coca-Cola Co. paid 36 cents of every dollar it earned as income taxes, its annual financial reports show.

But for each of the last 10 years, Coca-Cola's overall tax rate has fallen below 25 percent.

The beverage giant accomplished this by shifting plants and earnings to lower-tax countries and by accepting "tax incentive grants" from nations ranging from Brazil to Swaziland, all eager to host Coca-Cola operations, its annual reports show.

PepsiCo also cut its income tax rates, from 34 percent in 1995 to 23 percent in 2010. "We intend to continue to reinvest earnings outside the U.S.," in lower-tax countries, PepsiCo said in 2005.

The mayor's proposal to levy a 3-cents-an-ounce tax on sugary drinks in Philadelphia to finance universal pre-K programs is just one of several pressures bearing down on the two big soda-makers.

At the top of the list: Both companies may have run out of ways to ease their tax burdens.

Last September, the IRS slapped Coca-Cola with a "statutory notice of deficiency," demanding that the company pay more than $3 billion in additional income taxes - plus interest, and maybe penalties - for under-reporting the company's "appropriate amount of taxable income" from 2007 to 2009. Coca-Cola is fighting the accusations in court and acknowledges that it could be forced to pay more for other years if the government wins.

PepsiCo's tax rate has begun creeping back up: After a major reorganization enabled it to temporarily reduce tax payments still further in the late 2000s, its effective income tax rate has risen one percentage point each year since 2012, reaching 26 percent in 2015.

Every tax dollar counts because Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are feeling an unprecedented profit squeeze. They used to be able to count on rapid growth in world markets, plus fat profit margins - still 10 to 20 cents on every $1 in sales for the companies - not counting what retailers, truckers, and tax collectors keep.

But total sales of Coca-Cola products have slipped an average of $1 billion a year since peaking in 2012 at $47 billion, and profits have flattened. At PepsiCo, total sales fell $4 billion last year to $63 billion; profits slipped, too.

Unlike with corporate income taxes, the proposed Philadelphia levy would hit consumers and store owners at the cash register.

Top soda executives are concerned: If the tax, as they warn, roughly doubles what sweet-toothed Philadelphians pay for cans and bottles, they worry that the drop in overall soda sales will accelerate here. And merchants squeezed by higher costs typically push distributors, packagers, truckers, and, ultimately, Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, to share the added cost by lowering wholesale prices.

It's no surprise that top soda executives, including Sandy Douglas, president of Atlanta-based Coca-Cola North America, have joined local soft-drink distributors such as Harold Honickman (formerly listed by Forbes Magazine as the richest man in Philadelphia for his control of regional Pepsi, Canada Dry, Dr Pepper, and Coors sales) in visiting the mayor to urge him to reconsider the tax.

Douglas was traveling and unavailable for comment last week, his assistant said. PepsiCo and Coca-Cola officials referred questions to the American Beverage Association, an industry group that represents soft-drink interests.

"Obviously this tax will fall on consumers," said association spokeswoman Lauren Kane, who questioned the fairness of comparing sales taxes to income taxes.

"Any industry facing a tax code singling them out in a discriminatory fashion would feel it was fundamentally unfair," Kane added.

Over a meal this month with soda representatives at the Lacroix Restaurant in the luxury Rittenhouse Hotel, the mayor was unmoved by the industry's arguments.

The soda lobby has succeeded in beating back efforts to tax or limit soft-drink sales in New York and San Francisco, and has questioned how well taxes have worked in Berkeley, Calif., and in Mexico, where public-health officials say the soft-drink tax has reduced consumption of drinks that play a high-profile role in the obesity epidemic.

The United Kingdom approved a soft-drink tax earlier this month.

Will the proliferation of soft-drink taxes drive industry profits down? Not if soda follows the road paved by the tobacco industry, where public stigma and higher taxes have led to increased industry profits and share values, notes Jonathan Feeney, a Berwyn-based food-stocks analyst for Athlos Research.

"When tobacco taxes went up in the 1990s, cigarette sales dropped, but the remaining hard-core heavy smokers willingly paid higher prices," Feeney said. Tobacco companies found that they could boost prices further, cut back on advertising, reduce distribution, and make higher profit margins even on reduced sales.

Although the link between soda and obesity is less clear than the role of smoking in lung damage, a "public-private partnership" in which governments profit from continued soda consumption through high taxes could be a good thing for the industry, Feeney concludes.

In Philadelphia, advocates are focusing on how the levy's $432 million over five years could help provide universal prekindergarten and school development projects. "We're not just making this a health-care campaign," as former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg did in his own failed campaign against soft drinks, says Kenney spokeswoman Lauren Hitt.

By establishing the soda tax to help the city's chronically underfunded public schools, the mayor hopes to broaden the soda-tax coalition to include teachers, school employees, and students and parent advocates, just as the multinational soda manufacturers seek to stress the tax impact on local truckers, retailers, and soda drinkers.

JoeD@phillynews.com

215-854-5194@PhillyJoeD

www.inquirer.com/phillydeals
A NORTH PHILADELPHIA man characterized by police as "a one-man crime wave" has been charged with three knifepoint purse robberies in Upper Darby and he is a suspect in two others, Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood said.

"The method of operation is the same: A woman walking by herself, comes home late at night, is confronted by a man with a knife who threatens to kill her, and then takes her handbag," Chitwood said Sunday.

About 11 p.m. Friday a woman, 17, returned home from work and put a key in her front door on Wembly Road when a man, later identified by police as Sultan Akbar-Abdullah, 27, put a knife to her neck, and demanded her handbag, Chitwood said.

The woman began screaming, and her father, 43, and uncle, 29, who were in the house, ran outside and chased Akbar-Abdullah to an alley between Wembly and Avon Roads, Chitwood said.

"They caught him. There was a fight. Akbar-Abdullah, who was armed, stabbed the uncle in the shoulder and head," Chitwood said in an interview.

The uncle bit Akbar-Abdullah in the hand, causing him to drop the knife. The two men held the suspect until police arrived, Chitwood said. The uncle was treated at Penn Presbyterian Hospital and released.

"We have had at least five armed robberies where the method of operation is the same," Chitwood said. "So we questioned him about these other robberies."

Police withheld the names of the victim, her father and her uncle.

Akbar-Abdullah, of the 4000 block of North Darien Street in Philadelphia, gave a statement about three of the crimes, including the one on Friday in which he was caught, as well as robberies of a woman on March 18 on Sherbrook Road and another woman March 22 near Veronica and Richfield Roads, Chitwood said.

Police are investigating two additional robberies that the defendant did not admit to, but in which he is "the primary suspect," Chitwood said.

Akbar-Abdullah has been charged with multiple counts of robbery, receiving stolen property, theft, reckless endangerment, possession of an instrument of crime, and aggravated assault. He is in custody. Bail was set at $100,000.

Chitwood laid out a long rap sheet for Akbar-Abdullah: He was arrested in 2008 and 2010 for retail theft in Upper Merion Township. In 2011, he pleaded guilty in Philadelphia to possession of an instrument of crime and simple assault. In 2013, the defendant was charged with retail theft in Philadelphia, convicted and sentenced to nine months' probation.

lloyd@phillynews.com

215-854-2831

@LoydLinda
screenshot: Fox 11 Los Angeles

A suspected carjacker was arrested in Canoga Park, CA, Sunday after leading authorities on a high-speed pursuit and apparently trying to steal a police vehicle at the end of the chase, reports Fox 11 Los Angeles.

Shortly after 6 p.m., the unidentified female strong-armed a woman in Van Nuys and stole her vehicle, said Los Angeles Police Sgt. Emerich.

The suspect drove off in the stolen vehicle. The suspect led police on a chase to Simi Valley, but eventually returned eastbound, he said.

The chase ended when a pursuing police vehicle performed a pit maneuver to force the suspect to stop. The driver got out of the vehicle and appeared to be surrendering, but then tried to get into the driver's side of one of the police vehicles, Emerich said.

Officers were able to tackle her and take her into custody, he said.
Des Moines, IA, Officers Susan Farrell and Carlos Puente-Morales were killed when a driver struck them head on. (Photo: Des Moines PD)

Des Moines, IA, Officers Susan Farrell, 30, and Carlos Puente-Morales, 34, were killed while driving east on Interstate 80 at 12:40 a.m. Saturday, returning a prisoner from Council Bluffs to the capital city, according to a news release. Another vehicle driving the wrong way struck the officers head-on near the Waukee exit at mile marker 117.

Both officers were recent additions to the Des Moines Police Department, graduating from the police academy in October 2015, reports the Des Moines Register.

The wrong-way driver, Benjamin Edward Beary, 25, died at the scene of the crash, where his Ford Taurus burst into flames, the State Medical Examiner's Office said.

The prisoner in the police car, 32-year-old Tosha Nicole Hyatt, was also killed, the Des Moines Register reports.
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The Republican-led House investigation into the phony and debunked videos and claims that Planned Parenthood made outrageous profits off of fetal tissue donations has now expanded to jeopardize the lives of thousands of innocent Americans with no connection to Planned Parenthood. Since the entire affair has been concluded to be an incredible hoax, one question remains. Why are House Republicans expanding their inquisition and crusade if Planned Parenthood is innocent? The answer is precisely the same as why the Catholic Church kept up its Crusades and Inquisitions; to use religion to punish heresy and anyone not adhering to church dogma exactly like the religious fanatics in ISIS.

Now, despite a totally discredited undercover video campaign, one that several other investigations failed to turn up any evidence of any wrongdoing by any parties except the phony videos creators; an anti-womans rights religious Republican, Representative Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) is expanding the evangelical crusade.

Blackburns House committee is on the verge of issuing 17 (more) subpoenas on medical companies to get the name of every medical researcher, professor, graduate student, laboratory technician, janitor, secretary and administrator involved in any way in legal fetal tissue research; research by the way, being conducted according to directions by the United States Congress.

Blackburn is an anti-woman crusader highly-regarded by the anti-womens healthcare rights National Right to Life, and condemned as one of the most corrupt members of Congress and she explained why she is targeting innocent Americans for doing their jobs. She said;

We are going to review the business practices of these procurement organizations and do some investigating of how they have constructed a for-profit business model from selling baby body parts.

Now, this is getting a little old, but since Blackburn is yet another anti-womens health crusader claiming Christianity as her raison detre but has never read the word of her god; according to her Christian bible as uttered by her personal almighty god, a fetus is not a baby. Or as Blackburn moronically label a fetus an infant. Medical dictionaries define an infant, and a baby, as a human child from its birth to the end of its first year of life. A fetus is not an infant or a baby; it is a fetus.

Blackburns committee was created by former Speaker of the House John A. Boehner and called the Select Investigative Panel On Infant Lives. Initially the committee was created to discover wrongdoing on Planned Parenthoods part, but with no wrongdoing and no-one to punish, Blackburn is going after any and every person remotely connected to medical and scientific research involving fetal tissue; it is a religious crusade and inquisition using taxpayer dollars and no-one is outraged.

However, the scientific researchers and medical technicians targeted by this 21st Century evangelical inquisition are outraged, and terrified that this latest religious attack will serve a dual purpose important to evangelicals. First, it has the very real potential of halting critical, lifesaving research and second; seriously endanger the lives of the many, many researchers, technicians, and students when their names are made public. Making the names public is according to a longstanding demand of anti-choice evangelicals so they know exactly whose lives to endanger.

The latest crusade should also be particularly frightening to every American, including anti-womens health Catholics and evangelicals seeking to punish non-compliant Americans. Every one of the laboratories and medical research scientists depend on fetal tissue samples to find cures for nearly every fatal condition including the Zika virus, Parkinsons disease and HIV among many other conditions and infirmities.

This is not the first time Blackburn, a self-professed small government conservative used the government subpoena process and taxpayer dollars to interfere into Americans, and businesses, private affairs. Last month Blackburn issued demands for internal and personal documents from over 30 separate agencies to dissect every conversation between the scientific research community and private businesses providing medical supplies.

Democrats on Blackburns religious committee questioned her inquisition over valid concerns that she was using the committees name to incite anti-choice maniacs to commit personal attacks on researchers and business owners. Representative Jerrod Nadler (D-NY) warned her of the serious implications to the safety and well-being of innocent Americans doing their jobs without permission from the Vatican or religious right. Mr. Nadler said,

The committee has no rules in place to protect the names of those subpoenaed  raising the possibility of Congress effectively painting targets on the backs of scientists and researchers for no particular reason other than the Republicans desire for a culture war.

Several members of Congress, including every Democratic member of Blackburns House committee said her request for specific information about individual employees and researchers is eerily reminiscent of former Sen. Joseph McCarthys crusade against communism in the 1950s. In fact, Representative Jackie Speier (D-CA) compared the religious investigation to the Salem Witch Trials. Speier said,

This time, those being burned at the stake are our scientists, who hold future medical breakthroughs in their hands. They are joined by brave womens healthcare workers who are simply trying to care for their patients.

Blackburns religious inquisition is particularly unsettling for university researchers who, along with students, are being put at risk for a religious crusade. When some schools and research organizations attempted to black out the names of researchers and workers, they were reprimanded and Blackburn added a prohibition on the Congressional subpoenas forbidding the extra security measure to protect the innocent. Remember, this is a religious crusade and inquisition and it would not be a proper one without some innocent human beings to punish; especially if they are scientists.

The senior director of government relations for the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) said that more than 50 medical organizations penned a letter to Republican lawmakers citing their grave concerns about religious Republicans crusade to ban fetal tissue research. David Moore said, Weve been trying to educate policy makers about why this research is needed and why it cant be replicated in other ways. However, Mr. Moore should understand that this crusade is driven by religion; educating policy makers wallowing in superstition and lies is a futile effort no matter if 5,000 medical organizations signed a letter.

Republicans claim they are champions of personal liberty and particularly grow incensed at the idea of the overbearing federal government interfering with Americans personal lives, or free market capitalism, particularly businesses. And yet they have no issue using taxpayer dollars, and the overbearing federal government to interfere with scientists, researchers, students, universities, and medical suppliers. Worse yet, they are specifically pursuing thousands of private Americans whose heresy is working in the medical and scientific research industry to save countless thousands of lives; something Jesus Christ would not label as heresy.
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Sunday on Meet the Press, Donald Trump ran afoul of fact when NBCs Andrea Mitchell laid bare the truth about the Republican presidential frontrunner, saying Trump is completely uneducated about any part of the world, and that When he doesnt know something, he just changes the subject, makes it all about himself.

Watch courtesy of Media Matters for America:









CHUCK TODD (HOST): Obviously a bizarre week, Andrea, in so many ways. But I want to go  because what I think could have been the story of the week was this unbelievable editorial board interview that Donald Trump did with The Washington Post. Let me play a longer excerpt of it and get you to respond.



[]



By the way, just so folks know, when we excerpted it, so then everybody around the room introduced themselves, subject got changed.



ANDREA MITCHELL: Exactly. He cannot stick to a subject. It is remarkable. And when he doesnt know something, he just changes the subject, makes it all about himself.

TODD: On national security its a very noticeable  especially to your ears and mine.



MITCHELL: Absolutely. And this was a week where he could have gone after President Obama, arguably. Theres a lot happening and the president has some vulnerabilities. So does Hillary Clinton. But instead hes all over the lot. And then The New York Times, David Sanger, Maggie Haberman, do an interview with him, a 90-minute interview and its in todays paper and online. And the transcript, if you read the transcript online, he would cancel defense treaties with Japan and South Korea against North Korea. He doesnt mind, he would be okay if Japan and South Korea go nuclear. American policy for decades since World War II has been trying to keep nukes out of that arena. He would stop importing oil from Saudi Arabia if they dont pay more for their defense. We need oil. We are not energy independent. We rely on oil still 



TODD: Sure.



MITCHELL: For our daily needs. He is completely all over the lot on Iran. He believes  he complained that Iran isnt buying our planes. It had to be pointed out to him that Iran is still under sanctions and cannot buy American planes. He thinks North Korea and Iran are the biggest trading partners when North Koreas biggest trading partner is China. He is completely uneducated about any part of the world.

This is not exactly what you want to see in a presidential candidate. This has been fairly obvious for some time, but, for example, if you read the transcript of The New York Times telephone interviews with Trump about foreign policy, it becomes blindingly obvious that Trump is literally just winging it, a literal mental sh*tstorm of ideas based on bits of knowledge and Republican talking points.

Most glaringly, he failed the Palin Test, being unable to name any sources of information, books or articles, he had read or used to inform himself.

Huffington Post has identified a Trump Doctrine which is essentially that of another president who saw things in absolutes, Ronald Reagan, to be defined as peace through economic and military strength. What happens, though, when the country is not the economic shambles Republicans claim (it is in fact no longer 2008, the year theyre campaigning against) and when we already have that military strength?

For example, in talking about Japan, China, and North Korea, Trump said when we entered into our arrangement to protect Japan we were a rich country with a strong military and that Were not anymore. We have a military thats severely depleted. Never mind that we have not only the single largest military on the entire planet, but as of 2015, U.S. spends on defense more than the next nine countries combined.

So yes, Donald Trump is completely uninformed about the world and completely unfit to occupy the White House. The Washington Post has analyzed these interviews and other Trump utterances and their findings, organized as 9 key points, paint a scary picture of a Trump-driven world.

Though he denies it, Trumps policies make him an isolationist, and we find ourselves in a future of nuclear proliferation, one where the U.S. pulls back from NATO at a time when Russia is flexing its muscles in Eastern Europe, and one where, as Mitchell has pointed out, decisions are made in complete ignorance of the facts (Trump proved he wasnt even aware of certain Iran sanctions).

We have to remember, however, that the same is true of any Republican candidate, who, after all, get their information from the same knowledge pool as Trump. Building on the fantasies of the Bush administration, the GOP has spent the entirety of Barack Obamas presidency constructing an alternate reality and it is now glaringly obvious that nothing Republicans insist is true about the world has any bearing on our shared reality.

Andrea Mitchell told it like it is Sunday: Donald Trump knows nothing. Moreover, as he changes the subject when it comes up, he is revealing that he is aware he knows nothing. But he wont admit it because his bluster admits of no doubt. He thinks we wont notice and the facts will get lost, along with the questions, in the sh*tstorm of his bombast.

It hasnt worked, and what we are seeing more and more is the inevitable result of the GOPs and Fox News construction of a false reality in which their candidates could play. Leave it to the GOPs also inevitable result, Donald Trump, to expose all its flaws.
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Even though there are many great things about America, there are even more things to be ashamed of. Anyone unfortunate to interact with people from around the world likely hear questions from their colleagues, friends, and family overseas that leave them speechless. There is not much one can say when they are too embarrassed to even attempt to explain why a large portion of American society is going off the proverbial rails and looking to hurt someone. What is a mystery though, is why the rest of the civilized world sees Americas insanity and yet most of the people that live here are either oblivious or part of the problem.

Yesterday on Meet the Press, Secretary of State John Kerry shared his unfortunate experiences of having to listen to the rest of the worlds incredulity over the GOP presidential race. Kerry said,

Everywhere I go, every leader I meet, they ask about what is happening to America. They cannot believe it. Theyre shocked and concerned about what this says about America, its steadiness and reliability. Some of the questions, the way theyre posed, its clear that whats happening is an embarrassment to our country.

Secretary Kerry is right, of course, but the sad fact is that most Americans are not embarrassed, they are proud. What is going on in the presidential primaries is exactly what a significant portion of the population believes defines and represents them as real Americans; bigoted, greedy, fanatically religious, and generally epitomize anti-social malcontents. For the record, a malcontent is a person who is always unhappy and angry and lust to act on their inherent personality dysfunction.

Over the weekend, that anti-social typically American kind of person ruined what should have been a pleasant outing for a large number of children celebrating the alleged resurrection of their slain messiah. Part of the Easter celebration is turning children loose to seek out hens eggs gathered, colored, and hidden by a big bunny, but in a Connecticut community, an Easter egg hunt revealed perfectly why Americans should be embarrassed and why the Republican presidential candidates are thriving.

The Easter egg hunt was organized and paid for by the Pez company as a kind act of generosity to the community. However, it quickly turned into a shoving match between greedy, angry and generally anti-social malcontent parents and small children anxious to hunt Easter eggs; many of whom were left injured and eggless. Pez general manager, Shawn Peterson, lamented that despite the Pez staff doing their due diligence to enforce starting times and protect children, that lasted less than a minute and the parents rushed the field like locusts and took everything.

Pez officials had taken the time to hide over 9,000 eggs on three different fields at the Pez Visitor Center, and as in years past, they carefully planned to stagger starting times to give every child a chance to enjoy the companys community largesse. No small number of parents had a very different, and inherently American, plan for the small children and the booty; overpower the children and steal the treasure.

One parent, Nicole Welch, recounted that When it came time, the parents just bum-rushed that area. Another mother, Lisa Stahl, said, Shame on that parent that broke the little boys bucket causing him to lose the few eggs he had, that the parent then picked up. And shame on the parent that bloodied another childs nose and to those of you that hogged all the eggs for your own kids. If anyone is to blame for what happened today its the parents. One mother, Val McCormick complained that what was supposed to be a nice outing and Easter egg hunt was worse than being at Wal-Mart on Black Friday.

The company that put on the free annual Easter egg hunt canceled the event and issued a special Easter statement on resurrection Sunday expressing regret over the incident.

Unfortunately people chose to enter the fields prior to anyone from Pez staff starting the activity. The crowd proceeded to rush the field without being directed to do so and before the posted start time.

We sincerely tried our best to create a fun, free activity for everyone to enjoy. Due to the actions of a few, the good intent quickly turned into a mess. I would like to sincerely apologize to each of our guests, this was not something created to frustrate or make people angry. We only wanted to do good for the local community.

Silly Pez officials; have they not yet learned that any effort, by any one in the private sector or government, to do good for Americans will always be thwarted by mean people who exist to turn it into a mess? Look, there are just too many people in this country that are inherently hateful and greedy to expect an act of kindness to go unpunished. The mindset of Republicans supporting Trump and Cruz should be proof enough that a large segment of the population are mean-spirited by nature; they call themselves the real America.

The rest of the world witnesses more than just the nasty presidential primaries where defaming many different groups, or unfoundedly demeaning a female candidates character, is typical and celebrated. They also see the growing conservative outrage at just the idea of America helping anyone whether they are beleaguered refugees, poor children, immigrant farm workers, the elderly or Veterans; so it is left to men like John Kerry to attempt to explain what is happening to America.

It is telling that the rest of the world can see that a fair share of the American people are greedy and inordinately mean towards any and every one; including small American children celebrating Easter. What is happening to America is not about the fear and hate mongering from the GOP presidential candidates, it is about an ever-increasing level of general animus among the population that thinks it is perfectly acceptable, and typically American, to despise non-white non-Christians, assault young children, break their Easter baskets, and steal their colored eggs and not be the least bit embarrassed.
NEW YORK  A Hmong American poet is this year's winner of the Walt Whitman Award, given for an outstanding debut book.

The Academy of American Poets told The Associated Press on Wednesday that 34-year-old Mai Der Vang will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a six-week residency in Umbria, Italy. Her collection "Afterland," inspired by the flight of the Hmong people caused by the so-called Secret War in Laos during the Vietnam War era, will be published next year by Graywolf Press. The academy will purchase thousands of copies for its members and will feature Mai Der Vang in its American Poets magazine and on its website, www.poets.org.

Previous winners of the Whitman prize, established in 1975, include Nicole Cooley, Eric Pankey and Alberto Rios.
Frames on the walls and scrapbooks hold pictures of what might not have been for Laura Evans: life beyond June 2008.

There are pictures of Evans and her husband Ryan celebrating their one-year wedding anniversary, spending time with people she considers her second family, and pictures taken at weddings she's attended. On June 18, 2009, Evans received a life-saving bone marrow transplant. Without the transplant, the frames on her walls and the scrapbook celebrating five years of life after the transplant would not be filled with so many big smiles.

"That would never have happened," Evans said of a picture taken at her brother's wedding. "All of those memories would not have been there."

Also framed is the first letter Evans received from Carin Harrison, the marrow donor who saved her life. She keeps it hung in her room. "She's special to me," said Evans. "She'll forever be."

"It was actually just a fluke," said Harrison. One day, back in 1996, she arrived at work early, in the Saint Louis University Hospital. People working with the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry (NBMDR, now known as Be The Match) had set up a temporary spot in a big room next to the elevators Harrison took that day. They were providing information and were taking blood samples. She signed up then to become a part of the registry. "Had I not been early for work that day, or had I been off that day, this would not have happened. It was the only time they came."

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'Hardcore diagnosis'

Evans was first diagnosed with aplastic anemia when she was in fifth grade. She'd been in remission for years. But June 2008, the month of her wedding, was when she had what she called her "really hardcore diagnosis of it." Her doctors did what they could to get her through her wedding and honeymoon. "When I came back, I was needing platelets," Evans said. "I had OK levels for a month, and then it crashed."

Evans was at such high risk for infection that her doctors decided a donor should be found three months into her illness.

Evans was in her early 20s. She wanted to do one cycle of collecting and freezing eggs in case she wanted to have children. "They wanted the transplant to be in April," Evans said. "I had to wait until my next cycle." Tending to those wishes pushed back the transplant.

In 2008, Harrison found out she was a potential match and was contacted for testing. Twelve years had passed. She had moved to Sweden. To find her, NBMDR first contacted her mother-in-law. Once they learned she was in Sweden, they connected with the Swedish version of the registry. Harrison was standing in her front yard, linked by a bad cell phone connection, when she was told that she was a match for someone in the United States.

"The actual donation was easy," said Harrison. "I came the night before, made sure I wanted to do this, signed papers, got prepped. Did an EKG again. Very easy. I was put under for a couple of hours. By the time I woke up, they were already on the plane."

Painless giving

All Harrison required after waking up from anesthesia was a couple of Band-Aids and a couple of Advil. "I was working in my garden the week after," she said. "I was not in any pain at all."

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"There's a behind-the-scenes part of the transplant," said Evans's mom, Terry Bauer. "The person who came from Sweden to America  they took care of this precious bone marrow for us."

"The nurses were like, 'Holy cow, that's a lot,'" said Evans about their reaction to the amount of marrow her donor had supplied. "Your donor is awesome."

Before the transplant process began, Evans requested a moment to give thanks. "I just want to stop and give thanks to my donor," Evans told them.

"I had normal counts for the first time in a long time," said Evans. "Without the transplant. I would have died. I would have died within a couple of months."

First meeting

Recently, Evans had the opportunity to meet and spend time with Harrison, who was visiting Rochester for the first time. The two, along with Bauer, were sitting in Evans' living room on a Friday afternoon as the snow started falling.

"She thinks what she did was no big deal," said Evans, gesturing to Harrison. "She doesn't think it's a big deal."

"For me, it was a little thing," said Harrison. "It wasn't a big deal."

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"It's been a crazy ride," said Evans. "The thing we always laugh about  I never used to like chocolate. After my transplant I was obsessed, craving chocolate. There is research out there. You get your donor's likes and dislikes."

"She was always vanilla and yellow cake," Bauer said of her daughter's preferences.

"I've always been chocolate and licorice," said Harrison.

The chocolate preference was one of the first things Evans asked Harrison about when they were finally able to speak, five years after the transplant. Sweden doesn't allow the exchange of donor and recipient information until after five years. A donor's information is only given to recipients if the donor consents.

"My hope is to get to Sweden in the next one to two years," said Evans. "You're more likely to match people of your heritage. I am mainly German and a little bit Swedish."
District Court of Guam Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood issued an opinion and order granting in part and denying in part defendant Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus motion for summary judgment in Robert K. Ballads case against Mabus.

Ballard was a federal civil service employee who moved from Hawaii to work as an electronics technician at the Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station on Guam and filed a civil case against the Department of the Navy for alleged sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation.

Ballard, 42, named Mabus as the defendant in his case. Ballard sought $300,000 for damages and other relief which includes correction of unlawful employment practices.

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The chief judges order stated: The undisputed facts relevant to Ballards hostile work environment claims show that the Navy took immediate measures to remedy the harassment he alleged as soon as it became aware of it. Accordingly, the defendant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law with respect to Ballards hostile work environment claims. However, many material facts relating to Ballards retaliation claims remain in dispute, such that neither party is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. Therefore, the defendants motion for summary judgment must fail on those claims. It is hereby ordered that, consistent with this opinion, the defendants motion for summary judgment is granted in part and denied in part.

The order further stated, The Navy argues that it had legitimate reasons to fire Ballard, who was a recently hired probationary federal civilian employee. Ballard counters that the Navys asserted reasons are mere pretext, and that he was in fact fired for reporting the abuse. With respect to the hostile work environment claims, because the undisputed facts demonstrate that the Navy took adequate remedial measures to stop any harassment, the court will grant summary judgment in favor of defendant on those issues. However, with respect to retaliation, because many material facts remain in dispute, and the undisputed facts do not justify judgment as a matter of law, the court will deny defendants motion for summary judgment on that issue.

Right to sue

Ballard filed his case in December 2013 through attorney Philip Torres after receiving a right to sue notice from the Equal Employment Opportunity office to go to federal court.

According to Ballard, he was subjected to sexual harassment by his co-employees and management constituting a hostile environment, race discrimination, age discrimination and retaliation that adversely affected his status as an employee.

Ballard was a Hawaii resident who moved to Guam at an expense of approximately $20,000 after he was hired to work as an electronics technician.

On Oct. 3, 2011, Ballard started working on Guam during the night shift with Jose Leon Guerrero who was responsible for overseeing his work.

According to Ballard, on more than one occasion between Jan. 11, 2012 and Jan. 25, 2012, his co-worker and immediate supervisor, Leon Guerrero, sexually assaulted him during their work shift.

Leon Guerrero, Ballard said, on more than one occasion also rubbed up against him or stood over him while he worked.

On Jan. 26, 2012, the plaintiff reported Leon Guerreros offensive and illegal conduct to his maintenance supervisor, Rodney C. Rood. Roods response was to send Leon Guerrero home early and to refer the matter to his supervisors.

After a couple of days, the plaintiff was informed that he was being removed from his position and had been reassigned to Satellite Communication or SATCOM.

A co-worker, Vince Rosario, on multiple occasions while at work at SATCOM between Feb. 1 and 16, 2012, allegedly engaged in illegal and threatening conduct when he allegedly repeatedly questioned the plaintiff as to why he was working on Guam and told him he was taking a job away from a local person.

Rosario, according to the plaintiff, on multiple occasions also questioned why he had never been married, why he didnt have children. The same person also allegedly told Ballard that he was an old man and told the plaintiff routinely to go home early because he was tired of looking at him and that he was an old man not able to learn his job.

Ballard said that while at SATCOM, he was not given work assignments and was ostracized by and from other workers.

On Jan. 30, 2012, the plaintiff said he met Lt. Cmdr. James Frey who was the psychologist and investigator of the plaintiffs claims. After asking the plaintiff to write a statement regarding the harassment, Frey allegedly rejected it because it repeated the plaintiffs claims of being subjected to discriminatory and unlawful behavior, court documents stated.

According to Ballard, Frey told him that if he wanted his career to continue, he must write that he was not sexually harassed and he could go on with his career.

Ballard said he wrote the false statement but was retaliated against for his EEO complaint when Executive Officer Randal Fuller terminated his employment on Feb. 16, 2012.

Ballard said the reasons stated in the dismissal order were incorrect, false and a pretext to cover up the unlawful conduct he was subjected to.
If LSD or mescaline arent doing the trick for you, you can always take in the podcast and interview with Anthony Weiner that for some reason the Puffington Host thinks the world really needs today. Heres a sample:

Im probably the best campaign politician you will ever interview. Im like perfectly evolved. Im like the Arnold Schwarzenegger Terminator, Weiner said in this weeks episode of HuffPosts Candidate Confessional podcast. I love it.  Im just really good at it and take great joy in it.

Of course, Weiner turned out to be a total twit underdone by Twitter. The PuffHo story verges quickly into satire:

The new revelations turned his campaign into a media circus. . . Looking back now on his failed run, Weiner doesnt see any particular lessons to draw from his race, other than that his scandal may well have been the last obsession of the dying world of tabloid journalism  a way to boost newsstand sales. Still, his campaign showed the limits of retail politics; that even the most skilled politician can be overwhelmed by character failings. . .

Ya think?

But it gets better. The top prize in the Anthony Weiner School of Being a Dick goes to the former head of the UNc climate circus (the IPCC), Rajandra Pachauri. As we reported here over a year ago, Pachauri was ousted as head of the IPCC over a sex scandal. Like Weiner, Pachauri is out this week sticking with his claim that his emails and texts were the result of a hacker. Hes going full Marion Barry: the b- set me up! No, seriouslythats his story and hes sticking with it:

His accuser, who cannot be named, is a science graduate. She says he besieged her with offensive messages, emails and texts in the 16 months she spent working with him. In February 2015, she gave police a cache of several thousand electronic messages as evidence. She says she rejected Pachauris carnal and perverted advances. On many occasions, Dr Pachauri forcibly grabbed my body, hugged me, held my hands, kissed me and touched my body in an inappropriate manner, she told police. From the emails, Pachauri appears enamoured of the woman. I am yours for life, he writes at one point; I have never felt so overwhelmingly in love as I have been with you, and even though you gave me so much pain, I will always be your well-wisher and carry beautiful memories of the joyous moments between us, limited as they might have been, he says in another. . . Please you are not to grab me and or kiss me, the woman told Pachauri in one text. He replied: I wish you would see the difference between something tender and loving and something crass and vulgar. Until now, Pachauri has said nothing about the case beyond denying all the charges, and claiming that his emails and computers had been hacked or misused. Now, however, in a series of emails with the Observer and in one meeting in London, he claims that his accuser was acting for money, and was probably set up to trap him by persons unknown. He claims that she had access to all his five email accounts, and to his electronic files which included personal correspondence and many poems that he had written over the years. What is disturbing [is] that right from the first day over a period of about 16 months she was creating and assembling an archive of messages, which to anyone would seem very unusual. As far as I know, the emails, text messages etc that she collected were personal, semi-personal and only in a few cases official, he says. . . He claims it would have been easy for someone to have assumed his identity and sent messages seemingly from him to her, without his knowledge.

Doesnt Hillary say were supposed to believe accusers? Theres more, and about the only think missing is the allegation that the Koch brothers must be behind it all. Oh, wait. . .
President Obama didnt just tango during his visit to Argentina. He also addressed a Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative meeting.

During his remarks, Obama stumbled through an embarrassing discourse on capitalism vs. communism. The would-be leader of what used to be called the Free World treated the issue as just another false choice, sort of the way he used to speak of Red States and Blue States before he figured out that the dichotomy was central to his election and reelection.

Obama seems to have been nervous during this presentation. At times, his hand gestures resembled those of the person who was translating for the deaf.

I guess the question of capitalism vs. communism is a puzzler for this president. Or maybe he was just embarrassed by what was coming out of his mouth. If not, he should have been.

Obama instructed his young listeners that the question isnt this system vs. that system, but rather what works. In Cuba, he claimed (falsely), communism is working great when it comes to health care. On the other hand, he acknowledged, the country looks like its stuck in the 1950s.

The lesson, said Obama, is that markets tend to generate wealth. Thus, they meet his does it work test, though they must be heavily regulated. Such is the wisdom imparted by this (once-thought-by many-to-be) towering intellect.

Scandalously, the only argument Obama was willing to make in favor of freedom is its tendency to generate wealth. If communism produced just as much, apparently it would be just as good or better, given the more even distribution of the wealth it purports to produce.

To argue in favor of freedom as a good in itself would, in Obamas thinking, mean succumbing to ideology. He is much too cool for that.

I infer that during the heyday of the Soviet Union, Obama might well have been a communist. Then it was thought, based on successful propaganda of the kind some now accept when it comes to health care in Cuba, that communism was working fine.

I also infer that Obama may well be a fan of the current Chinese regime. Until recently, many thought it was working quite well.

As for the U.S., Obamas crude pragmatism militates in favor of some reliance of free markets. However, this doesnt mean that socialist or communist solutions should be ruled out. It depends on the particular problem your addressing, Obama told his young audience.

Because freedom isnt a big deal in an of itself, Obamas pragmatism militates in favor of  for example  telling people what kinds of communities they must live in. On such matters, government diktat will work better than freedom in producing the kinds of neighborhoods Obama favors.

Obama doesnt want to kill the Golden Goose of free markets. He just wants to put it in a cage with as little sunlight as is consistent with the continued laying of eggs. And he hopes we will overlook the fact that the eggs are losing their luster.

Obamas entire speech is below. His remarks regarding capitalism vs. communism begin at around the 41:00 minute mark.


The Washington Post has published a lengthy article by Robert OHarrow, Jr. called How Clintons Email Scandal Took Root. Much of the article covers ground familiar to those who are following this saga. However, the story is still worth reading.

For one thing, it illuminates Clintons motive for using a private device. OHarrow writes:

The scandal has pitted those who say Clinton was innocently trying to find the easiest way to communicate against those who say she placed herself above the law in a quest for control of her records.

I doubt that, for purposes of determining whether Clinton violated the law, it matters whether her motive was convenience or a quest for control of her records. However, OHarrows piece, without saying so, shows that her motive was control, not mere convenience. It makes this clear in two ways.

First, OHarrow shows that security officials emphasized to Clinton and her staff on multiple occasions the security risk associated with using her BlackBerry. For example, not long after Clinton became Secretary of State, Assistant Secretary for Diplomatic Security Eric Boswell wrote: Any unclassified Blackberry is highly vulnerable in any setting to remotely and covertly monitoring conversations, retrieving e-mails, and exploiting calendars.

Clinton told Boswell that she get[s] this. However, she continued to use her private BlackBerry.

Clinton also continued to use her private BlackBerry and her home brew server after she issued a June 28, 2011 memo urging State Department employees to avoid conducting official Department business from you own personal email accounts. The memo was a response to reports that Gmail accounts of government workers had been targeted by online adversaries.

Because Clinton and her top staff were well aware of the serious risk of using private email accounts, it seems unlikely that they assumed these risks for a reason no more substantial than convenience. To do so would be wanton even for Hillary Clinton.

Second, Team Clintons response to the idea of the Secretary getting a government-issued BlackBerry linked to a government server leaves little doubt that Clintons main motive was secrecy. In an email to key Clinton aide Huma Abedin, State Department official Stephen Mull wrote:

We are working to provide the Secretary per her request a Department issued Blackberry to replace personal unit, which is malfunctioning (possibly because of her personal email server is down.) We will prepare two version for her to use  one with an operating State Department email account (which would mask her identity, but which would also be subject to FOIA requests).

(Emphasis added)

Abebin replied: lets discuss the state blackberry. doesnt make a whole lot of sense.

A government-issued BlackBerry would have been as convenient to use as a personal one. Thats why Clinton requested one. However, it would have been subject to FOIA requests. Thats why, once this became clear to Team Clinton, the idea didnt make a whole lot of sense.

Based in part on this email exchange, Judge Emmet Sullivan, a Clinton appointee, has said in open court that legitimate questions have been raised about whether Clintons staff was trying to help her to sidestep FOIA. Use of private email was an important part of that scheme.

It seems clear, then, that Clinton wasnt using a personal BlackBerry tied to a private server for reasons of convenience or because she and her staff were BlackBerry addicts. She was using the device to keep her records secret.

This is the root of the Clinton email scandal.
Gee, what could possibly cause violent extremism? The New York Times is stumped. Matt Apuzzo reports: Who will become a terrorist? Research yields few clues. Few clues, indeed. Lets file this in the annals of cluelessness:

After all this funding and this flurry of publications, with each new terrorist incident we realize that we are no closer to answering our original question about what leads people to turn to political violence, Marc Sageman, a psychologist and a longtime government consultant, wrote in the journal Terrorism and Political Violence in 2014. The same worn-out questions are raised over and over again, and we still have no compelling answers.

I love this:

When researchers do come up with possible answers, the government often disregards them. Not long after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, for instance, Alan B. Krueger, the Princeton economist, tested the widespread assumption that poverty was a key factor in the making of a terrorist. Mr. Kruegers analysis of economic figures, polls, and data on suicide bombers and hate groups found no link between economic distress and terrorism. More than a decade later, law enforcement officials and government-funded community groups still regard money problems as an indicator of radicalization.

Marie Harf, call your office! Has anyone gotten the word to United States Attorney Andrew Luger and the administrators of Minnesotas federally funded Countering Violent Extremism program?

Luger makes a cameo appearance in Apuzzos article:

In Minneapolis, one of the pilot cities for the administrations counter-radicalization efforts, Andrew M. Luger, the United States attorney for Minnesota, has built relationships with the Somali community. He said that a prevention program was coming soon, and that interventions were farther off. Its taken a lot of time, he said. Were at a point where a lot of it is beginning to come to fruition.

Fruition. What is that? Fruition is when the money is doled out. No mystery there.

Unfortunately, Apuzzos research didnt turn up Daniel Koehler, director of the German Institute on Radicalization and Deradicalization Studies. Hes making a house call on the Minnesota men who have pleaded guilty to seeking to enlist with ISIS.

As far as the Times is concerned, the mystery abides.

Via Andy McCarthy (from whom I have borrowed the opening question above).
The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) Joint Venture is producing more gas from Agbada field in the Eastern Niger Delta in support of governments aspiration of increasing domestic gas production for manufacturing and power generation, the company said on Monday.

A statement by a spokesperson by the company, Precious Okolobo, said some 10 million standard cubic feet of non-associated gas per day (MMscf/d) was produced from the Agbada Early Gas Production Facility (EGPF), into the eastern domestic gas network on March 8 and has already ramped up to 20MMscf/d of gas, with 1,500 barrels per day of oil.

According to the statement, a peak production of 40MMscf/d is expected to be achieved, in addition to oil production of about 2,500 barrels per day.

The milestone, it said, came as SPDC JVs Afam VI  with 650MW capacity  continued to deliver power to the national grid.

Were pleased to support efforts towards increasing gas supply for manufacturers and power plants, said Toyin Olagunju, General Manager Projects, SPDC. Were also pleased that the project was delivered in record time  14 months from initiation to first gas  within budget and most importantly, safely. We acknowledge the support of NAPIMS and other JV partners, without which the milestone would not have been possible.

The statement addeded, The additional gas will further boost gas availability on the eastern domestic gas network and will be available to enhance power generation by over 150MW. The early gas project was initiated in January 2015 pending the completion of the main Agbada non-associated gas plant.

SPDC pioneered the production and delivery of gas to domestic consumers and export markets. Early this year, SPDC signed a gas sale agreement with the Bayelsa State Government under which it will sell gas to the Bayelsa Development and Investment Corporation (BDIC) for the purpose of power supply to the Kolo Creek Gas Turbine.

Shell, the company said, is the only international oil and gas company to have set up a gas distribution business in the country, Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG).
Appointment

JACOB GYANG BUBA, the Gbong Gwom Jos and chairman of Plateau Council of Chiefs, was on Wednesday, March 16, installed as the 3rd Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka.

His investiture was part of activities commemorating the 10th convocation of the institution.

Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Julius Okojie, represented President Muhammadu Buhari, who is the visitor to the university.

Mr. Buba is one-time Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Customs Service.

DIKKO RADDA, was on March 14 appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari as director-general of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria, SMEDAN, for a period of five years.

Mr. Radda graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Agricultural Economics and Extension from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, in 1996.

He obtained two Masters Degrees in Agricultural Extension and in International Affairs and Diplomacy; and also doctor of philosophy in Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, all from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, between 1998 and 2015.

A former teacher, banker and local government chairman, Mr. Radda was until his new appointment, the chief of staff to the governor of Katsina State.

Honoured

PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI on Monday, March 14, in far away Equatorial Guinea, received the countrys highest national honour, the Grand Collar of the Order of the Independence.

Mr. Buhari dedicated the honour to the people of Nigeria, who, he said, worked tirelessly for peace in the country and Africa.

President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea said the honour was conferred on Mr. Buhari for his personal integrity, exemplary leadership style and courage to fight terrorism in order to ensure peace and safety in Africa.

Anniversary

IMADE COLLEGE, Owo, on Saturday, March 19, marked its 70th anniversary as an educational institution that has produced notable citizens of the country.

The college, which was founded in 1946, has the Olowo of Owo, Folagbade Olagbegi, and the late former Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof. Ilemobade, among its many notable products.

The first civilian governor of Ondo State, Adekunle Ajasin, was the first substantive principal of the college.

The occasion, attended by its alumni from different parts of the country and abroad, featured a N250million appeal fund for further development of the school.

Wedded

ADEYEYE OGUNWUSI, the Ooni of Ife, on Saturday, March 12, married a new wife, Wuraola Otiti, a daughter of the families of Obanor and Obayuwana in Benin City.

The reception of the traditional wedding was held at the Edo Hotel, located at No 4, Okada Avenue in GRA, Benin City, Edo State.

The royal father was represented by his father and uncle, who led guests from Osun State and other places to Benin City.

Passage

JAMES OCHOLI, the late minister of state for Labour and Employment, was on Friday, March 18, laid to rest amidst tears and eulogies from family members, friends, colleagues and associates.

He was buried alongside wife, Blessing, and son, Joshua, in their family home in Abocho, Biraidu District, Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The three family members died in an auto crash on March 6, on the Kaduna-Abuja highway.

Speaking at the funeral service, the vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, described the three deceased family members as saints called home by the Creator.

FELIX IBRU, the first civilian governor of Delta State, departed the earth on Saturday, March 12 at the age of 80.

He was born into the family of Peter and Janet Ibru on December 7, 1935 at Agbarha-Otor, a rural community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.

He was one of the seven children of the famous Ibru family, renowned for business ventures in the country.

Mr. Ibru was educated at Yaba Methodist School. After his secondary school education at Igbobi College, he proceeded to the Nottingham School of Architecture in England where he qualified as an architect in 1962.

He served as governor of Delta State between 1992 and 1993 and later as senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District between 2003 and 2007.

He was president-general of the Urhobo Progress Union.
APPOINTED

Bank Okoroafor has emerged the new chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN).

A statement by the associations publicity secretary, Nik Odinwiwe, on March 22, said Mr. Okoroafor was chosen at the just-concluded annual general meeting in Port Harcourt.

He replaced Emeka Ene, who steered the affairs of the association for four years.

Also elected as executives of the association are Gbolahan Lawal, secretary; Wole Ogunsanya, assistant secretary; Emmanuel Onyekwen and Chubby Ibe as ex-officio.

HONOURED

Ayo Dada, a record-breaking first class graduate of University of Lagos who scored the maximum 5.0 CGPA, was on Wednesday, March 23, honoured by the House of Representatives.

Mr. Dada was given the privilege of attending plenary at the House of Representatives, where he received a standing ovation from lawmakers for his rare accomplishment.

The recognition followed a motion brought by Majority Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila and after its adoption, the lawmakers took turns to eulogise the wiz kid.

Responding, Mr. Dada said the honour was like a dream that should not come to an end.

Buruji Kashamu, the Chairman, Kasmal Group of Compnies and senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District was on March 19, 2016 conferred with the Life Time Community Service Award for 2015/2016 by the International Association of Lions Clubs, District 404 B1 Nigeria.

The club cited his humanitarian activities and exemplary leadership as reason for conferring the award on him.

The award was presented by the club at the 2015/2016 Elders/Founders Day celebration held in Abeokuta on Saturday March 19.

The award was received on his behalf by the former Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ogun State and the State Coordinator of Omoilu Foundation, Niyi Osoba.

Other categories of awards given to other eminent persons, include Community Service Award, Pillar of Service Award, Hallmark of Service Award, Service per Excellence Award, Passion for Service Award, Emerging Leadership Award, Post-Homous Award, Lifetime Community Service Award and Icon of Service Award.

LAUNCHED

University of Ibadan, on March 14, opened its ultra-modern subsurface research centre that will boost the development of top rate manpower for the nations oil and gas industry.

The centre was donated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC.

The centre has 15 fully-networked workstations, a high-end server complete with internet facilities, a standby 45-Kva generator, among other facilities.

The SPDC JVs intervention to turn around the subsurface centre of the university is a careful choice to support the institution to deliver the next generation of technologies and skills that will help Nigeria to unlock more oil reserves, said Igo Weli, SPDCs General Manager, External Relations at the handover ceremony in Ibadan.

With all the modern facilities and promise of uninterrupted power supply, the centre has the capacity to showcase the potentials of oil and gas sector, while attracting bright minds. Our hope is that students will make the best use of it.

PASSAGE

Kenneth Archibong, a former member of the House of Representatives, on Tuesday, March 22, passed away in Abuja.

Mr. Archibong, who hailed from Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, represented Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency between 2011 and 2014.

He succeeded Ita Enang at the House of Representatives after the latter was elected to the Senate.

At the House, Mr. Archibong chaired the committee on Air Force.

Dinah Lambo, the widow of Africas first professor of Psychiatry and former Director General of the World Health Organization, Adeoye Lambo, is dead.

A statement by the Ogun State government said Mrs. Lambo died on Saturday, March 19 at the age of 93.

Her husband died over a decade ago and was buried in Abeokuta, his hometown.
This is a crucial year for democracy in Africa. Six countries have already held presidential elections in 2016, and 11 more are preparing for elections.

African leaders have the opportunity to advance democracy and cement their legacies by establishing the conditions for peaceful transitions of power. Their actions will determine democracys trajectory across the continent and around the world.

Already, some leaders have set the right tone through free, fair, and timely elections. Others, however, are not listening to the will of their people or the requirements of their constitutions.

In March last year, Nigerians, against all odds, went to the polls and in an unexpectedly free, and credible election voted in an opposition candidate for the first time in their history.

In December, I was honored to represent the United States at the inauguration of President Roch Marc Kabore in Burkina Faso. The election process  widely judged to be free and fair  was a tremendous success and reflected the desire of the Burkinabe people for change. Former President Compaore had been in power for 27 years until a 2014 peaceful uprising when the people said, No more!

Last month, the people of the Central African Republic, a country emerging from a devastating civil war, embraced democratic change and voted in a peaceful presidential election. The interim president paved the way for the transition, the losing candidate respected the results, and the winning candidate pledged to unify the country.

In several countries, however, weve seen leaders self-servingly attempt to disregard or amend their constitutions in order to stay in power. It is precisely this resistance to change and reluctance to play by the rules that leads to resentment and instability.

Take Burundi, for example. President Pierre Nkurunziza ignored the objections of many Burundians, including many in his own party, and decided last year to run for a third term, in violation of the Arusha peace and reconciliation agreement that had been the foundation for stability for over a decade. Since then, the country has been racked by violence, which has led to hundreds of deaths and displaced more than a quarter of a million people, and its economy has crumbled due to the resulting instability.

I must make it clear that the United States respects the right of a countrys citizens to amend their constitutions through legal means. But we do not support those in power changing constitutions or ignoring peace agreements purely as a means of extending their own tenure: this undermines the institutions of democracy and the democratic process.

As President Barack Obama said in his historic address to the African Union last year, sometimes youll hear leaders say, well, Im the only person who can hold this nation together. If thats true, then that leader has failed to truly build their nation. Successful leaders work to foster the development of a strong civil society and institutions that can support the peaceful transitions of power; that is the way to long-term stability.

Let me also be clear about where we stand: we promote peaceful and regular leadership transitions globally, not just in Africa. In fact, we have grappled with leadership transitions right here in the United States. Our first president, George Washington, started an informal tradition of presidential term limits by refusing to run for a third term. The only American president to serve more than two full terms in office was Franklin D. Roosevelt before and during World War II. That length of service, however, prompted debate about the wisdom of presidents remaining in power beyond two terms, and we amended our Constitution in 1951 to limit presidents to two terms.

Similarly, the election of Thomas Jefferson, our third president, marked the first transfer of power to the opposition  and that was a bitterly contested election. Yet, at the end of the day, the party in power accepted the results and President Jefferson peacefully took over to become one of our most successful and productive presidents.

Throughout our history, regular leadership transitions have brought in new ideas, new voices, and new policies that have helped us create a stronger, more inclusive democracy. My experiences in Africa convince me that Africans feel the same way about democracy. At its core, democracy is about the will of the people, and the people believe in transitions. Just last year, Afrobarometer reported that an overwhelming 75 percent of African citizens surveyed favored executive term limits.

We hope that more African leaders will embrace life after the presidency. I recently visited the Carter Center in Atlanta in the U.S., where I marveled at what former President Jimmy Carter has accomplished in the 35 years since he left office, working tirelessly around the world to advance human rights, promote democracy, build peace, eradicate disease and reduce conflict.

Some former African presidents have set excellent examples. Former President Festus Mogae of Botswana stepped down in 2008 following two terms in office and received the Mo Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership. He launched and chairs the Champions for an AIDS-Free Generation, a group of former presidents and influential African leaders who are working to end the AIDS epidemic, and is leading efforts to end the violence in South Sudan.

Former Ghanaian President John Kufuor also relinquished power in 2008 after two terms. He founded the John Kufuor Foundation, which is working to advance effective leadership, good governance and socioeconomic development in Africa.

There are other examples that former presidents can lead a long, productive life. Thats the type of leadership we admire, and the type of leaders the people of Africa deserve.

The United States will continue to promote peaceful, democratic transitions of power in Africa. We will do this because we believe they provide opportunities for Africans to enjoy democracy, peace and prosperity, and bring stability across the continent. Transitions in power have served the United States well, and they will do the same for Africa.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, as the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, is the Obama administrations top diplomat on African affairs.
President Muhammadu Buhari has felicitated with the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he clocks 64 years on March 29.

The President, according to a statement by Femi Adesina, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, said the rising political profile of Mr. Tinubu since he was elected a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 1992 was a testimony to his forthrightness, diligence and doggedness.

Mr. Buhari said it was the same qualities that endeared him to the electorate and gave him all-round success as a private sector worker, a businessman and two-term governor of Lagos State.

The statement added, As one of the pillars of the APC, President Buhari commends the visionary leadership style of the Asiwaju of Lagos, who is also the Jagaban of the Borgu Kingdom in Niger State, for creating a formidable opposition party in Nigeria that worked vigorously within a short period to oust a party that had been in power for 16 years.

The President assures the national leader that his patriotism and commitment to democracy and good governance, and his generous spirit will always be remembered and appreciated by generations of Nigerians.

He prays that the Almighty God will grant the Asiwaju long life, good health, wisdom and prosperity as he steadfastly supports efforts to promote the development of Nigeria.
Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima, on Monday said for 19 days after over 200 girls were abducted from their dormitory in Chibok, former President Goodluck Jonathan failed to call him or any official of the state government to make enquiry or empathise with the state over the incident.

Mr. Shettima made the disclosure on Monday when former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who is on a two-day visit to the University of Maiduguri, visited him at Government House in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

In a lengthy speech filled with encomiums for Mr. Obasanjo, the governor said he was confident that the abduction of the Chibok girls would have been handled differently were the former President (Obasanjo) in power at the time of the incident.

The girls were abducted as they prepared for exams in April 2014. Many Nigerians, including Mr. Obasanjo, blamed governments inability to locate the girls on Mr. Jonathans poor handling of an incident that sparked global outrage and concern.

Hosting Mr. Obasanjo on Monday, the Borno governor recalled how the former President, who left office nine years ago, fought vigorously for peace during his tenure, repeatedly telephoning governors, traditional rulers and other peacemakers in trouble spots across the country.

In our own case, Your Excellency, after the Chibok abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in April, 2014, it took 19 days for me to receive a call from the Presidency, Mr. Shettima said.

I brought this mainly to show the difference, because we will only appreciate scenarios when we make comparisons.

The governor added, Your Excellency, Sir, I was privileged to have worked closely with Chief Innocent Audu Ogbeh as Honourary Adviser to me on Agriculture. He selflessly assisted us in fine-tuning our Agricultural programs from 2012 to 2015 which made him to frequent Maiduguri at the heat of the Boko Haram insurgency. I remember that in one of his visits, we had one conversation in 2014 after the Chibok schoolgirls abduction. I was actually lamenting to him on governance at the Federal level with relations to poor handling of the Boko Haram insurgency.

As I was lamenting to him, Chief Ogbeh said something to me and I quote; Look, I might have had some political difference with President Olusegun Obasanjo but to say it as it is, if Obasanjo had been President while this insurgency is happening in Borno and other parts of the northeast, you would have witnessed what responsive Leadership entails.

Chief Audu Ogbeh went further to say that from his point of view, His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was one of Nigerias most hard working President. He described President Obasanjo as a highly energized workaholic. Chief Ogbeh made these remarks as a leader in the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria at a time Baba Obasanjo was a PDP leader.

Besides Ogbeh, I had a conversation with a former Governor who told me that while he was a sitting Governor during Baba Obasanjos regime as President, there was a time Baba called him countless number of times in one day to get update over a crisis that erupted in the Governors State.

Someone even told me that as President, Baba Obasanjo had phone numbers of traditional rulers and resident heads of security establishments in States that were prone to crisis and he sometimes spoke with them directly to get first hand information.

Without crisis, he created time to call traditional rulers to make enquiries about communal stability, ethno-religious coexistence and community policing in order to forestall problems. In our own case, Your Excellency, after the Chibok abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in April, 2014, it took 19 days for me to receive a call from the Presidency. I brought this mainly to show the difference, because we will only appreciate scenarios when we make comparisons.

The former Presidents visit to the state is at the instance of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID), following his request to excuse himself from the forthcoming UNIMAID convocation billed to hold soon.

Mr Obasanjo, who arrived Maiduguri at about 11am, immediately visited Mr. Shettima, at the Government House.

The governor said Mondays visit was the former presidents first call at the Borno Government House since 1976.

Mr. Shettima could not hide his excitement, describing himself lucky and privileged to receive Mr. Obasanjo in his office as a sitting governor.

Your Excellency, Sir, majority of Nigerians salute you; we adore and respect you and we shall forever be grateful to you for standing for the unity, continued existence and the recovery of Nigeria when Nigerians needed you most, he added.

Mr. Obasanjo, who commended the Borno State governor, called on the Federal government to embark on detailed research to document the Boko Haram insurgency for posterity to learn from.

At the university, the former President is to commission the newly renovated Convocation Square and inspect some ongoing projects in the university, hosted to a dinner.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti state on Monday said Governor Ayodele Fayoses conducts were threats to national security.

It said the governors recent utterances and actions suggest acts of sabotage targeted at rendering national institutions ineffective to perform their statutory roles for effective government in a federal set-up.

The State Publicity Secretary of the party, aiwo Olatunbosun, said this in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti.

The statement noted that Mr. Fayoses unguided serial statements had exposed him as a man fighting a lone battle against the Federal Government over alleged selfish motives.

He said such motives were targeted at putting millions of Nigerians in jeopardy of instability in an already tottering economy.

He cited the governors alleged death wish for President Muhammadu Buhari at a rally held at Fajuyi Square, Ado-Ekiti, over the weekend to welcome the detained member of the House of Assembly, Akanni Afolabi, to the state capital as a case study.

Mr. Olatunbosun regretted that besides the governor inciting Ekiti people against the operatives of the Department of State Security (DSS), he had also for umpteenth time, threatened to bring Mr. Buharis government down if any attempt was made to probe sundry alleged crimes levelled against him.

We have heard of reports of Governor Fayose inciting the people to stone the operatives of the DSS anywhere they are seen.

This is besides saying many unprintable things about the President, such as saying that he would soon die, and declaring the DG of DSS, Lawal Musa Daura, a personal non-grata in Ekiti State.

It is regrettable that Mr. Fayose cannot separate his personal views as a man constantly at war with the Nigerian law from the views of lawful Ekiti people, who are ready to submit themselves to the Nigerian law where the rule of law and good governance flourish, the party said.

Accusing the governor of running a government built on his personal image, the APC said this misconception had robbed Ekiti people the quality leadership with the right mindset to see governance beyond the prism of self-glorification.

This failure to see governance beyond personal appeal of the governor is costing our state good governance for the development of our people and her deserved place of honour in this country.

That is why the governor is wasting state resources on helicopter charter to ferry an accused person, Akanni Afolabi, from Abuja to Ekiti after which he took six pages of several newspapers on frivolous adverts to publish court records on the accuseds bail application and topped it with the donation of a new car to same Akanni, who is still under investigation over several criminal cases.

Fayose has appointed himself national opposition leader just because he wants to help himself in his many criminal cases against the nations law, it said.

Neither the governor, nor his aides or the state government had yet responded to the APC statement.

(NAN)
The Kano Electricity Distribution Company, KEDCO, has denied responsibility for the inferno at Sabon Gari Market in Kano.

A statement signed by its Chief Customer Relations Officer, Abubakar Yusuf, claimed that the feeder line supplying electricity to the market was not on as at the time of the incident.

It explained that the feeder which received supply from Club road was off since Friday by 5p.m. due to load shedding.

The company said We wish to put the records straight that the fire incidence at Sabon-Gari market never emanated from power spark.

It is also on record that the two dedicated transformers supplying the market are still intact and had no sign of any power surge after the incidence.

It condemned a statement by an official of the state fire service, linking the Sabon Gari market fire incident to electrical fault.

The fire service never called us to alert us of the incident as they normally do when there is a fire outbreak, but unfortunately for us they just went ahead to blame us, the statement said.

The company commiserated with the victims, Emir of Kano , and the Government and people of the state over the inferno.

The reports that the inferno affected large section of the market in the early hours of Saturday and it took fire service personnel more than 24 hours to contain.

(NAN)
The Chief Media Consultant to the Forum of Spokespersons of Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA), Yushau Shuaib, has resigned his appointment after three years in the post.

While in that position, Mr. Shuaib, a retired civil servant, served as intermediary between major security/response agencies and the media in Nigeria.



In a statement on Monday, Mr. Shuaib said he was engaged by a former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, to serve as media consultant to military, security, intelligence and response organisations under a unified platform.

He said he also had as his core mandate the responsibility of positioning the agencies for desired public perception and changing the negative narratives regarding the war against terror.



In his notice of resignation served on the Chairman of the forum and Director of Defence Information, Rabe Abubakar, a brigadier general, Mr. Shuaib said he could no longer continue to serve FOSSRA which is under the auspices of the Office of National Security Adviser (ONSA) because of what he called misleading report by the presidential committee under the same ONSA.

He accused the committee of unjustly accusing almost all institutions and individuals that served the office without fair hearing.



Mr. Shuaib said, The retired AVM Jon Ode-Presidential Panel under ONSA is merely criminalizing critical institutions and indicting groups and individuals in the media without being arraigned in the court of law where the accused could prove their innocence.



He queried the rationale behind empowering a Panel on Procurement of Arms that is composed of retired and serving military officers to also probe contracts and services that have nothing to do with arms and ammunition.



The media consultant said while the Jon Ode led-Panel deliberately refuses to acknowledge successes recorded by previous administration in the war on terror, the team has only succeeded in misleading the president with its biased reports that create unnecessary anxiety in the polity.



He advised President Muhammadu Buhari to be wary of those whose stock in trade is to blackmail and destroy others apparently as a way and means of venting their anger over their past frustrations or exerting revenge against their perceived enemies or rivalries while in the service.



I wonder if President Buhari was able to conduct comprehensive background checks on some members of the panel before their appointment. A mere google check would have provided him a glimpse on the character and ethical capital of some of these individuals who may likely be showing frustrations occasioned by stagnation in posting, arraignment before court martial for indiscipline and fund misappropriation while in service apart from those that might have served as aides to controversial figures, he said.



Mr. Shuaib, who was defending a PR agency, Image Merchants, that has worked for security agencies since 2013 with over 20 staff on its monthly payroll said: It is mere mischief for the Jon Ode-panel to indict an umbrella strategic communication outfit that was not involved in partisan politics but provided proofs of its assignment and paid the full taxes demanded by the panel only for the same panel to turn around and claim nothing was done just few days after an article we published exposing the lies being orchestrated that no weapons were bought by the previous administration for the prosecution of war on terror.



The panel were even arguing with us on some contents of the published article forgetting that while most of them were on retirement we risk our live by engaging top serving military officers on various security issues and on the field which we disseminate through the media to the public.



They seemed to be aggrieved with the disclosure in the article that the previous administration bought sophisticated weapons for the military, which included: Alpha jets, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) APCs, Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, advanced artillery pieces, assorted arms and ammunitions, highly sophisticated surveillance drones, T72 Battle Tanks and modification of F7 supersonic jet fighters.



In the same statement, Mr. Shuaib said at the twilight of the Goodluck Jonathan administration more than 22 towns in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states were recovered and confirmed with video and pictorial evidences through military press releases. Some of the towns recovered before the coming of President Buhari included: Abadam, Askira, Baga, Bama, Bita, BuniYadi, Damboa, Gamboru Ngala, Goniri, Gujba, Gulani, Gwoza, Hong, Konduga, Kukawa, Marte, Madagali, Michika, Monguno, Mubi, and others. A clear testimony to some of the accomplishments was the official DHQ release dated March 16, 2015 with reference No: DHQ/ABJ/901/32/DDI and a title: Troops Finally Rout Terrorists from Bama and Last Stronghold in Yobe.



He said the Jonathans administration achieved the feat through adequate funding of Multinational Joint Taskforce (MNJTF) and participating neighbouring countries in additional to recruitments of Special M Forces that stormed the terrorists camps from the air. The combined and collaborative security efforts, according to the consultant, weakened Boko Haram terrorists from disrupting the 2015 general elections which Mr. Buhari eventually won.



Surprisingly an article published by an aide of President Buhari eulogizing former NSA Dasuki over the accomplishments in the war against terror by Jonathans administration, which Shuaib cited in his article, has been deleted from the website of the newsmedia that published it. The original article where the media link was provided can still be read from this, Mr. Shuaib said.



He said while the Jon Ode Panel deliberately refused to appreciate PR intervention in crisis management, he claimed For genuine reasons and concern, our strategic team managed many humiliating and embarrassing reports from leakages, including alleged terrorists attacks in the hometowns of top security officers in the current administration.



The consultant warned that: While it is wrong to criminalize the military by subjecting their officers to scrutiny in an agency headed by a policeman, it is appalling the continued exposure of our judiciary to public ridicule in the sensationalised anti-corruption campaigns. In this context, it is foolhardy for anyone to now contemplate using a PR agency to rubbish media integrity as another critical stakeholder. PR people engage the media professionally and responsibly to achieve strategic objectives.



I strongly believe that President Muhammadu Buhari is being misled with negative and predetermined reports that continue to portray Nigeria as the most corrupt nation when he should be encouraged to address the current problems of weak Naira, fuel crises, poor electricity supply, skyrocketing costs of living among other economic challenges which are denting the image of the administration. President Buhari certainly does not need lies and distractive propaganda at this critical period.



Since the President is neither a god to be worshipped nor a devil to be feared, General Muhammadu Buhari deserves love and respect of the citizens through transparency and motivating demeanour which are characteristics of a compassionate leader. My position on incorruptibility and integrity of Buhari is an open secret through my writings over two decades, right from the university days. We stand for Buhari not out of fear as if every Nigerian is a criminal; we love and pray for his success as a national leader. We therefore urge the President to be wary of vested interests who are clearly capitalizing on his sincerity and trust for their own proxy wars.



We honoured the invitation to serve our nation out of patriotism and we dutifully provided our services as crisis communicators diligently and professionally. While acknowledging the moral supports and encouragement from critical stakeholders, we will continue to volunteer, support and render the services responsibly. We would never abandon our clients, partners and friends especially those who are unduly victimized and vilified.



Meanwhile we will soon be in the court to clear our name from the unfortunate media trial of indictment that has been used consistently to unjustly rubbish reputations of institutions and individuals without following the rule of law or due process, he said.



Mr. Shuaibu said members of FOSSRA include spokespersons from Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Nigerian Army (NA), Nigerian Airforce (NAF), Nigerian Navy (NN), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA), Department of State Security Service (DSS), the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Prison Service (NPS), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Federal Fire Service (FFS), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC).


Less that five days after his public apology over the dissolution of the Governing Council of Universities, a human rights organisation, Coalition of Civil Society Groups, has withdrawn its case against President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu.

According to the organisation, while Mr. Buharis decision to reverse an action that was taken in error was highly commendable, the constant embarrassment brought to his government by those who believe that it was still business as usual should be ruthlessly addressed to serve as deterrent to others.

In the case filed at the National Industrial Court in Abuja, the CSOs, among other reliefs, asked the court to declare as illegal, the sacking of 13 Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities and reinstatement of the governing councils of Universities.

During the National Executive Council meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held on Thursday in Abuja, Mr. Buhari in his apology admitted that the sacking of the governing councils was done in error.

He said, We gave a blanket order which we had to rescind when we said all boards are suspended or dissolved. We had to go back and lick our vomit in terms of universities councils because we found out that according to their laws, they cannot choose vice chancellors unless the councils sit and interview candidates who want to be VCs.

So, there is nothing wrong in saying sorry and going back on your decision. So, we said sorry and allow all the universities to continue with their councils. So, please, try to bear with us as we reflect on where we found ourselves.

But the CCSG in a letter to Mr. Buhari, signed by its President, Mr. Etuk Bassey Williams, and Secretary-General, Abubakar Ibrahim, described the Presidents apology as a noble and timely action which has put him on the right side of history.

While calling on the President to march his words with action as a way to tell a democratic story of a change government under President Buhari, the coalition said Nigerians are watching and anxiously waiting to see this open apology made by you come into fruition because much is expected of this government.

According to the group, the Presidents remorse will forever remain a point of exemplary reference for the present crop of African leaders that offering apologies or reversing mistakes is not a sign of weakness but a show of courage to thread on a path meant only for the brave.

The CCSG said, May we humbly remind you Sir that our coalition was the first to call your attention to this error through the office of the Minister of Education when this decision was first taken as we observed that your action was predicated upon an ill-conceived advice that emanated from Mr. Adamu Adamu.

It was after the failure of several appeals that this decision be reversed by the Minister of Education that we embarked on several peaceful protests to call the attention of all relevant stakeholders including the National Assembly to this fundamental flaw, which if allowed to stand will set a very bad precedent capable of tainting your administration as one that has no regard for the rule of law.

This is one embarrassment too many by charlatans who are yet to understand that this change which is sweeping through all facets of the Nigerian society has truly come to stay. As a mark of respect and show of solidarity to your administration, the Executive Council members of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups after an emergency meeting have decided to withdraw our suit at the National Industrial Court (NIC/ABJ/64/2016) filed against (the President) and the Federal Ministry of Education in respect to this matter.

This is our own way of saying thank you for yielding to the voices of several stakeholders who appealed to you to revisit your decision, which though taken in good faith but known to all Nigerians to be predicated on the wrong counsel of an overvaulting public officer in the person of Mr. Adamu Adamu. As we journey through to 2019 under your leadership, we expect more democratic practices as well as sound political and economic reforms at all times.

The group also called the Presidents attention to a similar scenario where some people tried to pad the 2016 budget, before they were promptly exposed by the National Assembly and in turn incurred your wrath as so many public officers who were found culpable were sacked.

According to the coalition, Mr. Buharis swift reaction brought back the confidence that Nigerians hitherto had in him as an upright man that can never compromise his integrity no matter whose ox is gored.

It is in lieu of the above that we appeal to you that the Minister of Education, Mr. Adamu Adamu and all those who have been found culpable either remotely, directly or otherwise in misinforming you into taking the action that led to this constitutional breach be made to take full responsibility through immediate resignation or sack so that those who are by any chance still in doubt as to your tenacity to rid Nigeria of bad governance will be totally convinced of your uncompromising stance, the CCSG pleaded.

While commending Mr. Buhari for being courageous enough to thread the path where only few African leaders have dared, the organisation thanked all stakeholders and Nigerians who stood on the side of truth while this agitation lasted even in the face of stiff opposition.
The Queens College Parent/Teacher Association says it is expecting a Visitation Panel set up by the Federal Ministry of Education to investigate the molestation claim by a parent on Wednesday, March 30.

Beatrice Akhetuame, Chairperson of the association, disclosed this at a news conference on Monday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the panel is on a fact-finding mission over an alleged case of molestation by the parent of a daughter at the institution.

The claim that a male teacher of the institution had sexually harassed a JSS-2 student had gone viral on the social media, as well as other conventional media, but had since been refuted by key stakeholders of the institution.

According to the chairperson, the panel has invited all concerned stakeholders on the matter to appear before it on the set date.

We as an association have received our own invitation letter and so have all other concerned persons.

The college management too have received theirs, as well as the accused and the blogger.

What we are now appealing for is for the woman who gave her daughters name as Chinenye Okoye to come forward and collect her own letter of invitation, she said.

Mrs Akhetuame noted that the presence of the supposed victim would go a long way in ensuring speedy findings and recommendations on the issue.

Mrs. Akhetuame, however, expressed surprise that in the midst of the allegation and confusion, the said mother of the girl who is claiming assault on her daughter had yet to disclose her identity.

According to her, it will be to the interest of the college, the management and all concerned persons over the issue to get everyone present before the panel, so as to tackle the issue once and for all.

I am the representative of parents of the college and therefore, I have the sole responsibility of defending the interest of parents and the welfare of the girls also falls on me.

I am a mother of five girls, two of them right here in this college. It will not be possible for me to ever have notice of such incidence and try to cover it up or do anything funny about it.

I know what it means to train the girl-child and I dare say at all times, my attention is always focused on their activities or issues that concern them.

It is, therefore, wrong for some persons who do not have enough facts on the issue to go ahead and be casting aspersions on my person or that of the college management, concerning an alleged cover up.

We are happy the panel is visiting and I pray that the truth behind the entire saga would be unraveled, but as far as we are concerned, no such thing ever happened, even as we await the supposed mother of the girl to come for her invitation letter and reveal her identity to us, she added.

Recently, a woman who claimed to be mother of a JSS-2 girl claimed that one of the male teachers in the school allegedly molested her daughter while drunk.

The parent claimed the incident happened during night prep, but school authorities say besides the security men, no male staff lives close to the hostel.

(NAN)
The Nigeria Army has promised a million naira reward for anyone with useful information that could lead to the rescue of its abducted officer, Samaila Inusa.

It also promised to give adequate protection to anyone who provide useful information, adding that such tip-off would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Mr. Inusa, a colonel, was whisked away in his Mercedes-Benz car by gunmen around Kamazo, along Kaduna Refinery Road, in Chikun local government area of Kaduna State.

As part of efforts to successfully rescue the senior officer, a spokesperson for the First Division of the Nigerian Army, Usman Abdul, a colonel, announced the cash-for-information offer to journalists on Monday morning.

The Army had earlier promised a N500,000 cash reward for information, but on Monday raised the cash reward to N1million.

Mr. Abdul had said in a statement on Sunday that the senior officer was abducted on Saturday night.

According to the statement, the abductors dropped off Colonel Inusas wife and left with him in his car. The car headed towards Abuja.
Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, on Sunday said the Federal Government had set aside N3 trillion for projects in 2016.

Mr. Shehu disclosed this while speaking with newsmen on the sidelines of a dinner held to celebrate the child dedication of Paul Ibe, the Head of the Atiku Media Office in Abuja.

According to him, the government of President Buhari will make sure that contractors are mobilised and paid for executing jobs.

He urged Nigerians to be patient with the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government as it would deliver.

He added that unlike what we have in the past, this government will award contracts and back them up with money to ensure their conclusion.

Nigerians will be happy in a short while; let us just have a little more patience.

The presidential aide, who said he attended the event to identify with the celebrator who had been a long standing companion, noted that the Federal Government had saved more than N3 trillion from the Treasure Single Account (TSA).

He said Paul has been my friend for long; as a bureau chief and as editor; we have worked closely together for long.

When he decided to leave ThisDay Newspapers, he accepted to serve with me at Atiku Media office.

We were there as coordinator and deputy coordinator until my latest appointment.

On her part, Titi Abubakar, wife of the former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, said that the hardship being faced by Nigerians at present would not be long.

She said some wrongs ought to be put right before the economy would pick up.

She added that anything God gives us, we have to say thank you to him; if at this particular time there is change, we have to put the country right before things get well again.

We have to endure the hardship for a while and all will be good for us by the grace of God.

Paul is my husbands staff and we have come here to celebrate with him; God has answered his prayer and we give Him all the glory.

Responding, Mr. Ibe said the reason for the gathering was to give thanks to God for wiping away his tears.

He said God had renewed his commitment to mankind -that if man remained consistent, his words would be fulfilled.

When we remain committed to Him, His promises may be delayed but must come to pass, he said.

Mr. Ibe said he had waited for long for a child, adding that with persistence, God would always show His glory to those who trusted in him.

The new baby boy was named `Onweghihekaririchukwu nothing is bigger than God. (NAN)
The Federal High Court, Lagos has insisted on enforcement of the judgment ordering the government of President Muhammadu Buhari to publish widely the spending of recovered stolen funds since the return of democracy in 1999.

The details of the judgment are contained in the certified true copy sent by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP to Abubakar Malami (SAN), Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

The 69-page judgment, dated March 24, 2016 and signed by Justice Mohammed Idris, reads in part: Transparency in the decision making process and access to information upon which decisions have been made can enhance accountability.

Obedience to the rule of law by all citizens but more particularly those who publicly took oath of office to protect and preserve the Constitution is a desideratum to good governance and respect for the rule of law. In a constitutional democracy like ours, this is meant to be the norm.

I am of the view that on receipt of SERAP request, the government had the duty to respond to same. If it does hold the information it must supply it within 7 days from receipt of the request. Where a decision to withhold information is taken, the government/relevant authorities must inform the plaintiff of its reason. In respect of the SERAP reliefs on recovered stolen funds since return of democracy in 1999, the government had kept mute. Let me say that they have no such power under the law.

There is public interest in public authorities and high-profile individuals being accountable for the quality of their decision making. Ensuring that decisions have been made on the basis of quality legal advice is part of accountability.

The judiciary has no choice but to enforce compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. There is no doubt that the FOI Act is intended to act as a catalyst for change in the way public authorities approach and manage public resources and records. The judiciary cannot shirk its sacred responsibility to the nation to maintain the rule of law.

I am of the view and do hold that the action should and does succeed in whole. Documents relating to the receipt or expenditure on recovered stolen funds since return of democracy in 1999 constitute part of the information which a public institution and authority is obligated to publish, disseminate and make available to members of the public. The government has no legally justifiable reason for refusing to provide SERAP with the information requested, and therefore, this Court ought to compel the government to comply with the Freedom of Information Act, as the government is not above the law.

Examples of cases where there may be a public interest in the disclosure of confidential information include: 1. Information revealing misconduct/mismanagement of public funds. 2. Information which shows that a particular contract is bad value for money. 3. Where the information would correct untrue statements or misleading acts on the part of public authorities or high-profile individuals.

Freedom of Information Act 2011 is meant to enhance and promote democracy, transparency, justice and development. It is designed to change how government works, because we have all resolved that it will no longer be business as usual. What is done officially must be done in accordance with the law. Although the Freedom of Information Act requires no explicit public interest test, an assessment of public interest must still be made. Therefore, all public institutions and authorities must ensure that they prepare themselves for the effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act.

Disclosure of the information will not constitute an actionable breach of confidence if there is a public interest in disclosure which outweighs the public interest in keeping the information confidential. There is a public interest in ensuring public scrutiny of public authorities. If the exemption under the Freedom of Information Act is wrongly applied and information is incorrectly withheld, a public authority may face sanctions under the Act for not complying with the duty to provide information.

In its letter to Mr Malami, SERAP asked the minister to ensure and facilitate full, effective and timely enforcement and implementation of the judgment by Honourable Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court, Lagos. The judgment ordered the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to publish up-to-date information on the spending of recovered stolen funds since the return of civilian rule in 1999.

SERAP also said Given the relative newness of the Buhari government, the effective enforcement and implementation of the judgment will invariably involve setting up a mechanism by the government to invite the leadership and high-ranking officials of the governments of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former President Umaru Musa YarAdua, and former President Goodluck Jonathan to explain, clarify and provide evidence on the amounts of stolen funds recovered by their respective governments (from abroad and within Nigeria), and the projects (including their locations) on which the funds were spent.

SERAP therefore believes that the swift enforcement and implementation of this landmark judgment by the government of President Muhammadu Buhari will be litmus test for the Presidents oft-repeated commitments to transparency, accountability and the fight against corruption, and for the effectiveness of the Freedom of Information Act in general, the organisation also said.

The organisation said The enforcement and implementation of the judgment should not be delayed as to do this is to continue to frustrate the victims of corruption in the country since the return of democracy in 1999, and will threaten to undermine the authority of our judicial system.

SERAP trusts that you will see compliance with this judgment as a central aspect of the rule of law; an essential stepping stone to constructing a basic institutional framework for legality, constitutionality, the rule of law practice and culture in the country. We therefore look forward to your positive response and action on the judgment, the organisation concluded.

Recall that the court in suit no:FHC/IKJ/CS/248/2011 entered judgment in favour of SERAP against the Federal Government as follows:

A DECLARATION is hereby made that the failure and/or refusal of the Respondents to individually and/or collectively disclose detailed information about the spending of recovered stolen public funds since the return of civil rule in 1999, and to publish widely such information, including on a dedicated website, amounts to a breach of the fundamental principles of transparency and accountability and violates Articles 9, 21 and 22 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act

A DECLARATION is hereby made that by virtue of the provisions of Section 4 (a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2011, the 1st Defendant/Respondent is under a binding legal obligation to provide the Plaintiff/Applicant with up to date information on the spending of recovered stolen funds, including:

(a) Detailed information on the total amount of recovered stolen public assets that have so far been recovered by Nigeria

(b) The amount that has been spent from the recovered stolen public assets and the objects of such spending

(c) Details of projects on which recovered stolen public assets were spent

AN ORDER OF MANDAMUS is made directing and or compelling the Defendants/Respondents to provide the Plaintiff/Applicant with up to date information on recovered stolen funds since the return of civilian rule in 1999, including:

(a) Detailed information on the total amount of recovered stolen public assets that have so far been recovered by Nigeria

(b) The amount that has been spent from the recovered stolen public assets and the objects of such spending

(c)

Details of projects on which recovered stolen public assets were spent

The Federal High Court, Lagos has insisted on enforcement of the judgment ordering the government of President Muhammadu Buhari to publish widely the spending of recovered stolen funds since the return of democracy in 1999.

The details of the judgment are contained in the certified true copy sent by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP to Abubakar Malami (SAN), Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

The 69-page judgment, dated March 24, 2016 and signed by Justice Mohammed Idris, reads in part: Transparency in the decision making process and access to information upon which decisions have been made can enhance accountability.

Obedience to the rule of law by all citizens but more particularly those who publicly took oath of office to protect and preserve the Constitution is a desideratum to good governance and respect for the rule of law. In a constitutional democracy like ours, this is meant to be the norm.

I am of the view that on receipt of SERAP request, the government had the duty to respond to same. If it does hold the information it must supply it within 7 days from receipt of the request. Where a decision to withhold information is taken, the government/relevant authorities must inform the plaintiff of its reason. In respect of the SERAP reliefs on recovered stolen funds since return of democracy in 1999, the government had kept mute. Let me say that they have no such power under the law.

There is public interest in public authorities and high-profile individuals being accountable for the quality of their decision making. Ensuring that decisions have been made on the basis of quality legal advice is part of accountability.

The judiciary has no choice but to enforce compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. There is no doubt that the FOI Act is intended to act as a catalyst for change in the way public authorities approach and manage public resources and records. The judiciary cannot shirk its sacred responsibility to the nation to maintain the rule of law.

I am of the view and do hold that the action should and does succeed in whole. Documents relating to the receipt or expenditure on recovered stolen funds since return of democracy in 1999 constitute part of the information which a public institution and authority is obligated to publish, disseminate and make available to members of the public. The government has no legally justifiable reason for refusing to provide SERAP with the information requested, and therefore, this Court ought to compel the government to comply with the Freedom of Information Act, as the government is not above the law.

Examples of cases where there may be a public interest in the disclosure of confidential information include: 1. Information revealing misconduct/mismanagement of public funds. 2. Information which shows that a particular contract is bad value for money. 3. Where the information would correct untrue statements or misleading acts on the part of public authorities or high-profile individuals.

Freedom of Information Act 2011 is meant to enhance and promote democracy, transparency, justice and development. It is designed to change how government works, because we have all resolved that it will no longer be business as usual. What is done officially must be done in accordance with the law. Although the Freedom of Information Act requires no explicit public interest test, an assessment of public interest must still be made. Therefore, all public institutions and authorities must ensure that they prepare themselves for the effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act.

Disclosure of the information will not constitute an actionable breach of confidence if there is a public interest in disclosure which outweighs the public interest in keeping the information confidential. There is a public interest in ensuring public scrutiny of public authorities. If the exemption under the Freedom of Information Act is wrongly applied and information is incorrectly withheld, a public authority may face sanctions under the Act for not complying with the duty to provide information.

In its letter to Mr Malami, SERAP asked the minister to ensure and facilitate full, effective and timely enforcement and implementation of the judgment by Honourable Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court, Lagos. The judgment ordered the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to publish up-to-date information on the spending of recovered stolen funds since the return of civilian rule in 1999.

SERAP also said Given the relative newness of the Buhari government, the effective enforcement and implementation of the judgment will invariably involve setting up a mechanism by the government to invite the leadership and high-ranking officials of the governments of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former President Umaru Musa YarAdua, and former President Goodluck Jonathan to explain, clarify and provide evidence on the amounts of stolen funds recovered by their respective governments (from abroad and within Nigeria), and the projects (including their locations) on which the funds were spent.

SERAP therefore believes that the swift enforcement and implementation of this landmark judgment by the government of President Muhammadu Buhari will be litmus test for the Presidents oft-repeated commitments to transparency, accountability and the fight against corruption, and for the effectiveness of the Freedom of Information Act in general, the organisation also said.

The organisation said The enforcement and implementation of the judgment should not be delayed as to do this is to continue to frustrate the victims of corruption in the country since the return of democracy in 1999, and will threaten to undermine the authority of our judicial system.

SERAP trusts that you will see compliance with this judgment as a central aspect of the rule of law; an essential stepping stone to constructing a basic institutional framework for legality, constitutionality, the rule of law practice and culture in the country. We therefore look forward to your positive response and action on the judgment, the organisation concluded.

Recall that the court in suit no:FHC/IKJ/CS/248/2011 entered judgment in favour of SERAP against the Federal Government as follows:

A DECLARATION is hereby made that the failure and/or refusal of the Respondents to individually and/or collectively disclose detailed information about the spending of recovered stolen public funds since the return of civil rule in 1999, and to publish widely such information, including on a dedicated website, amounts to a breach of the fundamental principles of transparency and accountability and violates Articles 9, 21 and 22 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act

A DECLARATION is hereby made that by virtue of the provisions of Section 4 (a) of the Freedom of Information Act 2011, the 1st Defendant/Respondent is under a binding legal obligation to provide the Plaintiff/Applicant with up to date information on the spending of recovered stolen funds, including:

(a) Detailed information on the total amount of recovered stolen public assets that have so far been recovered by Nigeria

(b) The amount that has been spent from the recovered stolen public assets and the objects of such spending

(c) Details of projects on which recovered stolen public assets were spent

AN ORDER OF MANDAMUS is made directing and or compelling the Defendants/Respondents to provide the Plaintiff/Applicant with up to date information on recovered stolen funds since the return of civilian rule in 1999, including:

(a) Detailed information on the total amount of recovered stolen public assets that have so far been recovered by Nigeria

(b) The amount that has been spent from the recovered stolen public assets and the objects of such spending

(c) Details of projects on which recovered stolen public assets were spent
Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have discovered a letter laden with heroin in Lagos.

The letter, which was sent from Bengaluru, India, on Express Mail Service (EMS) was addressed to Yunusa Amusan, 33, in Mushin, Lagos.

In a statement on Monday, the agency said the letter contained about 480 grammes of a powdery substance which tested positive for heroin.

The thin parcels of heroin were carefully hidden in the letter in a manner that makes it difficult to detect, the NDLEA said in the statement issued by Mitchell Ofoyeju, its spokesperson.

This is the first case of heroin letter discovered by the anti-narcotic agency this year.

The Chairman of the NDLEA, Muhammad Abdallah, said that the arrest was recorded following the diversification of the agencys operations.

The operations of the agency have been diversified to cover mail services, said Mr. Abdallah, a retired colonel.

Drug control is an intelligence-led operation and the NDLEA under my dispensation will spread its tentacles to all possible areas of narcotic smuggling.

We will not relent in taking deliberate and sustained efforts towards preventing drug trafficking under any guise in the country be it by air, land and water.

The NDLEA boss said investigations revealed that the suspect, who is in custody, allegedly connived with his uncle who lives in India to import heroin disguised as letters to Nigeria.

Their criminal plan did not materialise due to superior intelligence gathering capacity of the agency, he added.

Olugbenga Mabo, NDLEAs Director of Operations and General Investigation, said the suspect was apprehended following surveillance report on his illicit drug activities.

The illicit smuggling of narcotic drugs under the guise of letters was reported and closely monitored by the agency, Mr. Mabo said.

It was confirmed that Mr. Amusan was recruited by his uncle who lives in India to take delivery of heroin concealed in letters to avoid arrest by law enforcement Agents. The suspect was arrested after collecting the letter and further investigation is ongoing.

Mr. Amusan, a technician, said he had been running errands for his uncle who lives in India.

He used to send money and letters to me to give to his wives and friends, Mr. Amusan said.

Sometimes he will ask me to buy foodstuff and send to him in India and in return, he gives me money to take care and sustain myself. I am single and a native of Ogun State. After my Junior Secondary School Certificate, I could not further my education due to lack of sponsorship.

I later learnt how to repair television sets but could not rent a shop to start my own business. The letter my uncle sent to me was opened in my presence and other officers and it was found to contain heroin.

The NDLEA said it is prepared to prosecute the suspect and any other person linked to the case.
The founder of the Nigerian Advance Party and pro-democracy activist, Tunji Braithwaite, has passed away.

He was aged 82.

Mr. Braithwaite died at St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, on Monday after a brief illness, family members said.

Born in 1933, Mr. Braithwaite was the youngest son of eight children.

He was educated at CMS Grammar School, entering the schools preparatory section in 1946 and completing his education seven years later.

In 1955, he sat for his A-Levels at the London University at Kennington College, and enrolled in 1957/58 as a Law student at the Council of Legal Education in London.

He was called to the Bar in 1961 at Lincolns Inn and thereafter signed the Rolls of Barristers at the High Court of Justice, London, before returning to Nigeria.

One of his most celebrated cases was in 1977, when Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti instructed him to represent the Kuti family and get Beko and Fela out of detention, as well as seek redress over some rights abuse by the Olusegun Obasanjo-led military junta.

Mr. Braithwaite fought the case through the High Court to the Supreme Court, leading other notable lawyers, including Olu Onagoruwa and Alao Aka-Bashorun, among others.

A lawyer, politician, pro-democracy activist, author, Mr. Braithwaite was married to his childhood sweetheart, Grace Falade, in 1956 while they were undergraduates.

He is survived by five children and many grandchildren.
Cameroonian health and security officials on Monday started the treatment of an arrested suicide bomber who claimed to be one of the 219 missing Chibok Girls, the Nigerian presidency has said.

The girl was found to be heavily drugged and bore several injuries on her body, Garba Shehu, the senior special assistant to the president on media and publicity, said in a statement.

The statement added, The girls health condition had delayed her movement to the far north regional capital of Cameroon, Maroua, as earlier planned.

Pictures of the arrested suspected bomber obtained by Nigerian officials indicated that the girl was likely a minor, between ages nine to 12 years.

Her accomplice was about 30 years or more, and both spoke only in Kanuri language.

Considering the well-known guidelines regarding the publication of photography of minors, we have decided to forward the pictures of the suspected bomber to the Murtala Mohammed Foundation for verification by interested Chibok community stakeholders.

The Ministry of Women Affairs, the Nigerian High Commission in Cameroon and other agencies of government will continue to work together with other stakeholders to verify all the issues.
The Islamic Movement in Nigeria has denied responsibility of the abduction of a Nigerian Army Colonel.

The Nigerian Army had on Sunday, confirmed the abduction of Samaila Inusa by unknown gunmen in Kaduna on Saturday night.

Thisday newspaper had on Sunday quoted an intelligence officer as saying the abduction might be a revenge mission by the Shiite Islamic sect against the Army over the deadly clash in Zaria last year.

However, a statement on Monday by Ibrahim Musa, the President, Media Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, said: Our attention has been drawn to a false, unsubstantiated and mischievous claim, that looks more like a planned operation aimed at painting the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) black, of some intelligence report that the IMN may plan kidnap of military officers for ransom for the release of our revered leader, His Eminence Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky.

Typically, this was followed by the alleged kidnap of an Army officer in Kaduna with the Nigerian Army issuing statement calling on the public to give information that would lead to the arrest of the perpetrators. Soon, some media outlets were quick to quote these malicious sources linking the IMN with the alleged kidnap.

We wish to categorically state here that the Islamic Movement in Nigeria under the leadership of His Eminence, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky has never, is not and will never engage in any form of crime to meet any of its objectives. Crime and criminal activities are fundamentally sinful and are not in our character.

The Islamic Movement knows that due to official administrative ineptitude and official negligence of constituted authority, a lot of crimes including kidnapping are prevalent in the country.

As a religious body, the IMN condemns and preaches against all forms of crime. Therefore, it is virtually illogical and unreasonable for anyone to presume that the IMN would turn around to engage in such acts of immorality.

It has conducted its activities in the most civilized manner and cannot in any way be derailed from that golden track record. IMN will therefore never be lured or diverted into any form of crime or violence.

It is obvious that the government and its Army are going further with their plans of campaign of calumny and false propaganda against the Movement ranging from smear documentaries on Television networks, advertorials in daily newspapers, sponsoring fake non-governmental organizations and engagement of some very dubious characters to malign the IMN and its leadership, to engaging in organized crimes and attributing same to the Movement.

We wish to categorically state here that the Islamic Movement in Nigeria under the leadership of His Eminence, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky has never, is not and will never engage in any form of crime to meet any of its objectives. Crime and criminal activities are fundamentally sinful and are not in our character.

The Islamic Movement knows that due to official administrative ineptitude and official negligence of constituted authority, a lot of crimes including kidnapping are prevalent in the country. As a religious body, the IMN condemns and preaches against all forms of crime.

Therefore, it is virtually illogical and unreasonable for anyone to presume that the IMN would turn around to engage in such acts of immorality. The IMN is a peaceful mass Movement, with enlightened and responsible members. For close to four decades now, it has conducted its activities in the most civilized manner and cannot in any way be derailed from that golden track record. IMN will therefore never be lured or diverted into any form of crime or violence.

We are forced to believe that the government and its Army are resorting to these vicious campaigns in desperation.

Finally, we would like to use this platform to echo our call on the government and its Army to own up to their crimes and release the revered leader of the Movement Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky and other members unconditionally.

The Nigeria Army had earlier on Monday promised a million naira reward for anyone with useful information that could lead to the rescue of Colonel Inusa.

It also promised to give adequate protection to anyone who provide useful information, adding that such tip-off would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

Mr. Inusa, a colonel, was seized in his Mercedes-Benz car by gunmen around Kamazo, along Kaduna Refinery Road, in Chikun local government area of Kaduna State on Saturday night.
The Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has said the apology offered by President Mohammadu Buhari on his failure to conduct free, fair and credible elections since he assumed office and his abuse of rule of law and regulations, especially on his dissolution of governing councils of universities was not enough, adding that the President should rather respect rule of law and rights of Nigerians to hold opinions.

While addressing his party, the All Progressives Congress, President Buhari had apologised for dissolving governing councils of universities along with the boards of parastatal agencies and also declared that he did not succeed in the election in Kogi, Bayelsa and Rivers States.

Reacting through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, Governor Fayose said; The best apology from President Buhari is to repent and purge himself of dictatorial tendencies and begin to see Nigeria as his Constituency, not the Hausa/Fulani and his APC members only.

Governor Fayose, who described the apology as admittance that the President was not governing the country right since he assume office, added that the President must go a step further by holding his men, who caused the killings in Rivers State accountable for the crime they committed.

The governor said the President must also apologise to the Agatu people of Benue State for looking the other way when Fulani herdsmen were killing over 500 of their people, including pregnant women and children.

He said; Now that the President has eaten the humble pie by apologising for being wrong all this while, one wonders where those who called us names for criticising the President and even plotted to destabilise our government will hide their sycophantic faces.

While it is good to apologise when one is wrong, President Buhari should be told expressly that Nigerians are not interested in his apology.

Rather, he should turn a new leave and do the right thing by governing Nigeria in accordance with the 1999 Constitution that he swore to uphold.

The President should stop the blackmail, harassment, intimidation and oppression of perceived political opponents, obey court orders and stop convicting Nigerians in his own mind.

He should ask questions as to why INEC produced results sheets for over 230 polling units in Rivers State with PDP omitted, hold those responsible for the fraud accountable and question why the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu has not been able to conduct any conclusive election since he was appointed.

Buharis men, who invaded Rivers State with soldiers and killed many people, including youth corp member must be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Most importantly, he should stop the Department of State Services (DSS) from acting as the security agent of the APC in Ekiti State by going about arresting and detaining without trial for unfounded allegations that are not within the mandate of the service.

The President should be reminded that Nigerians are only interested in being able to feed and live their lives without any encumbrance, President Buhari should stop making live difficult for Nigerians with his obnoxious policy that has killed small scale businesses and rendered millions of Nigerians jobless.
R Sridharan, president of AIPIMA and Vimal Mehra, past-president of AIPIMA, in this interaction, say, the association is doing all it can to...
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...
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.




LONDON, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

CRU's World Copper Conference (http://www.worldcopperconference.com) returns to Santiago on 4 - 6 April, as part of the Annual Cesco Week, attracting over 400 of the copper industry's most influential decision makers.

This annual gathering, now in its 15th year, is considered the foremost copper conference and is perfectly timed so that senior professionals in the global copper industry can come together and understand how global market forces will impact their commercial and operational decisions this year.

The three-day event starts with a site visit to the AngloAmerican mine, Los Bronces, before two-days of exclusive presentations, debates, case studies, discussions and unparalleled networking.

It will deliver exclusive presentations from a renowned faculty of 35 international, regional and local speakers discussing the issues that will drive the market in the short and long term with. Speakers will include Aurora Williams, Minister of Mining, Government of Chile, Javier Cordova, Minister of Mines, Government of Ecuador, Nelson Pizarro, Chief Executive Officer, Codelco, Diego Hernandez, CEO, Antofagasta plc, John MacKenzie, Executive Chairman, Mantos Copper, Jerry Jiao, Vice President, China Minmetals Corporation.

The 2016 conference will also include several new features.

We have added to our already extensive programme, for the first time, speakers offering insights on operations in Brazil, Peru, China, Iran and Australia. Presenters include Robert Friedland, Chairman and Founder, Ivanhoe Mines, Tito Martins, Chief Executive Officer, Votorantim Metais, Christophe Malik Akli, President, Paranapanema.

Attendees can also attend the Case Study Collection, 15 minute presentations, showcasing examples of best practice or innovations that could be adopted to help their business with companies presenting from as far-a-field as Canada and Australia.

Once again the event finishes with the dedicated Sulphuric Acid Market Seminar on 6 April.

Alongside the conference, a three-day exhibition will feature a variety of stands showcasing technology and service providers to the industry including Breen, Brady, Brass and Air Liquide.

We are also pleased to welcome a variety of sponsors, many of whom are also exhibiting, including AngloAmerican, Bechtel, Fluor, ABB, Aramark, Outotec, SNC Lavalin, Hatch, ENFI, SMBC, LME, Mizuho, FLSmidth, Solgold and Amec Foster Wheeler.

We look forward to welcoming you to Santiago.

Event and Media Enquiries

For all event and media enquiries, including requesting press accreditation, please contact Michael Cluskey

T: +44(0)20-7907-2019

E: michael.cluskey@crugroup.com



For more information about CRU and its products and services, please go to http://www.crugroup.com

SOURCE Cru Events World Copper Conference
SANTA CLARA, Calif., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc. ("ACT"), the developer of DiamondTemp, a proprietary open-irrigated temperature-controlled radio frequency ("RF") ablation technology, announced today that enrollment has been completed in its first-in-man clinical trial of thirty five patients suffering from Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation ("AFIB"). The study was designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the ACT System, which includes the DiamondTemp Catheter, DiamondTemp RF Generator, Irrigation Pump and various accessories. The patients were treated at Homolka Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic by Dr. Vivek Reddy, Director of Cardiac Arrhythmia Services at Mount Sinai Hospital and by the study's principal investigator, Professor Dr. Petr Neuzil, the Head of the Department of Cardiology at Homolka Hospital.

The DiamondTemp proprietary technology features (1) open-irrigated temperature-controlled RF ablation technology, (2) real-time, high-resolution electrogram ("EGM") amplitude attenuation during ablation, and (3) tissue contact sensing. The ACT first-in-man experience demonstrated that its system's features worked in harmony to optimally and safely control lesion formation, to significantly decrease total RF "ON" time and average ablation durations and to reduce overall infused fluid volumes.

According to Dr. Neuzil, "The DiamondTemp technology's effectiveness in isolating pulmonary veins and in creating transmural lesions, combined with greater than 60% reduction in start-to-finish procedure times, is remarkable. I have not clinically used another ablation system and catheter technology in the electrophysiology space that is as effective as the DiamondTemp. This is a game changer."

ACT also announced that it is has appointed Dr. Reddy to be the Principal Investigator of its upcoming IDE clinical study that will be conducted to support the FDA's approval of the DiamondTemp System. ACT's CEO, Duke Rohlen, commented, "The power of the DiamondTemp technology was demonstrated in our 35-patient first-in-man study. We are very excited to continue to partner with Dr. Reddy to bring the DiamondTemp technology to patients suffering from AFIB in the United States."

According to Dr. Reddy, "I am extremely pleased to continue to work with ACT to bring this powerful cardiac ablation system to the US market." Dr. Reddy added, "The ACT DiamondTemp catheter is remarkable. The efficiency of this system, based on the lesion feedback it provides combined with the dramatic reduction in treatment times, will make this technology a powerful force in electrophysiology and will change the way that I currently treat patients in my practice."

About Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc.

Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc. is a pre-commercial, medical device company that designs and manufactures a catheter-based system for the treatment of patients with AFIB. AFIB is characterized by an irregular, often rapid heart rate that commonly causes poor systemic blood flow. The Company's mission is to dramatically improve the treatment of AFIB through the introduction of products based on its proprietary catheter and generator system. ACT's DiamondTemp technology is the only system in the world to leverage four unique capabilities: temperature control, low irrigation flow rates, high resolution EGM attenuation and contact sensing. The ACT system is not currently approved for commercial use. For more information, please contact Whitney Gilmour at [email protected]. www.actmed.net

CONTACT: Whitney Gilmour, (408) 550-6421, [email protected]

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SOURCE Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.actmed.net


WASHINGTON, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The April issue of AARP Bulletin provides a fresh look into making your home safer and healthier this spring with its cover story on "99 Great Ways to Make Your Home Safe and Healthy." Other stories include a look into a national shortage of geriatricians; tips on avoiding Medicare mistakes; April scam alerts just in time for tax season; a Q & A with Tom Frieden, Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and noted epidemiologist on the Zika Virus and more; and AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins' on saving for your retirement.

April Issue of AARP Bulletin

Cover Story: Around 18,000 Americans die every year from accidental injuries in their homes. Almost 38,000 older adults annually are treated in emergency rooms just for tripping over carpets and rugs. From 5 hidden hazards such as radon, mold and carbon monoxide to 11 moves to make your home safe for grandkids to 6 ways to prepare for a disaster, AARP has reached out to the nation's leading health and safety experts to keep readers secure in their surroundings with simple tips to protect you and your loved ones that may even save your life.

Where Are the Doctors You'll Need? A shortage of geriatricians is leading to a major public health concern. Geriatricians are critical, becoming increasingly important as America ages. Yet these specialists are in short supply and the shortage is becoming more severe. The United States will need more than 23,000 new geriatricians by 2030 according to the American Geriatrics Society to provide specialized care to the 74 million Americans who will be over age 65.

Medicare Mistakes: Medicare is uncharted territory for most of the 10,000 people who come into the program each day. It's not a minefield exactly, but lurking in the undergrowth are pitfalls and traps that can be costly unless people take care to dodge them. This highly informative article helps explain Medicare and its complexities to AARP Bulletin readers.

He Wants to Retire. She's Not Ready. What Now? Husbands and wives don't always agree about when to stop workingor how to resolve their differences. "Two-career boomers are the first generation that has had to deal with his-and-her retirements," says sociologist Phyllis Moen, author of Encore Adulthood: Boomers on the Edge of Risk, Renewal and Purpose. Indeed, fewer than 20 percent of all couples quit working in the same year. And a recent study found that 38 percent of retired couples disagree on the lifestyle they want to lead. April's AARP Bulletin examines out-of-sync retirements and the best way to realign to get these retirements back in sync.

The Cons of April: Tax scams, free-lunch seminars, vacation scams and flood cars are four scams to watch out for this April and AARP doesn't want you to get soaked by the month's sneakiest schemes. With Tax Day, April's AARP Bulletin suggests that you beware of emails supposedly from the IRS or other tax collectors; invitations to lower your tax bill such as free-lunch seminars; vacation scams offering a free cruise or resort stay or airline tickets; or "flood cars," vehicles with water damage from storms that insurers declare a loss, which are then bought by unscrupulous vendors at auction, quickly cleaned, then sold to unsuspecting dealers or individual buyers.

Tom Frieden, Chief Disease Detective: In an exclusive interview, Tom Frieden, Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and noted epidemiologist discusses global health, the importance of exercise, flu, E.coli, and even zombies.

Saving For Your Future: AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins discusses how people are now living more active and engaged livesoften 20 to 30 years longer than the previous generations and many will need more money to finance this longer life. Over half of all households nearing retirement have absolutely no retirement savings, and Social Security provides most of the retirement income for about half of all households headed by people age 65 and older. Jenkins states that now, time has come to change the conversationor start oneabout preparing financially for our later years.

About AARP Bulletin

The definitive news source for AARP's members, AARP Bulletin (http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/) reaches more than 23.5 million households each month in print, with additional news and in-depth coverage online. Covering health and health policy, Medicare, Social Security, consumer protection, personal finance, and AARP state and national news developments, AARP Bulletin delivers the story behind the key issues confronting 50+ America. The monthly consumer-oriented news publication has become a must-read for congressional lawmakers and Washington opinion leaders, and it provides AARP members with pertinent information they need to know.

About AARP

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million that helps people turn their goals and dreams into 'Real Possibilities' by changing the way America defines aging. With staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, AARP works to strengthen communities and promote the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare security, financial security and personal fulfillment. AARP also advocates for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the world's largest circulation magazine, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @aarp and our CEO @JoAnn_Jenkins on Twitter.

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SOURCE AARP

Related Links

http://www.aarp.org


ADDISON, Texas, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Behringer today issued an official letter of response, attached to this release, that rebukes actions taken by Monogram Residential Trust to suppress the voices of two Behringer executives who presently serve on Monogram's Board of Directors.

While Behringer would not normally engage in this type of public dispute, Behringer is responding to the public filing and statements made by Monogram on Wednesday, March 23, 2016.

About Behringer

Behringer creates and manages real estate investments through public and private fund structures, joint ventures and separately managed accounts. The company also offers strategic advisory, asset management, tax-deferred exchange and capital markets solutions. Investments sponsored and managed by the Behringer group of companies have invested into more than $11 billion in assets. For more information, call 214.655.1600 or visit behringerinvestments.com.

Jonathan Ball

For Behringer

[email protected]

972.387.5403

Attached Letter:

March 28, 2016

Donald E. Batterson

Tel +1 312 923 2607

Fax +1 312 923 2707

[email protected]

Via Email and UPS

Stephen D. Poss, Esq

Goodwin Procter LLP

Exchange Place

53 State Street

Boston, MA 02109

Re: Improper Formation of "Executive Committee" and Strategic Direction of Monogram Should Advance the Best Interest of Stockholders

Dear Mr. Poss,

As you know, I represent Behringer. I write in response to your letter of March 23, 2016, on behalf of Mr. Robert Aisner and Mr. Michael Cohen, in their capacity as Behringer's nominees to the board of directors of Monogram. At the outset it must strongly be observed that, should there be any doubt, Messrs. Aisner and Cohen are expressing their views and (at times) disagreements on certain key decisions with the objective of advancing the best interests of the stockholders of Monogram. Messrs. Aisner and Cohen have deep and relevant expertise and industry experience. Their informed and important views should be considered by the full board of directors and are valuable to ensuring the board is acting on a fully informed basis and in the best interest of stockholders.

We had expected that my well-intentioned letter of March 11 would open up a meaningful dialogue with the other directors on the board of Monogram about the serious concerns stated in that letter and ultimately how to advance the best interests of Monogram and its stockholders, including whether strategic alternatives should be explored. As you are aware, respected third parties have echoed the importance of undertaking such a strategic review. Instead, we received your letter, which does not seriously address our concerns with respect to the legitimacy of the executive committee, the effective removal of Messrs. Aisner and Cohen from the board of directors or other important matters.

The conflicts of interest described and alleged in your letter are mere pretext used to silence the views of Messrs. Aisner and Cohen. In essence, preferred stock such as held by Behringer is designed to present a "win-win" situation for shareholders and sponsors. As you observe in your letter, the preferred stock has no value unless the stockholders of Monogram receive a return of their capital plus such return of 7 percent. This preferred stock creates alignment (albeit with a finite life) between the interests of Behringer and the interests of stockholders, in the same way as does incentive compensation and certain equity incentives for the executives. And as you know, the independent directors of Monogram unanimously approved the director nomination right of Behringer, the issuance of this preferred stock to Behringer, and the fee arrangement that Monogram is now trying to evade. In addition, the fees owed to Behringer, while important to Behringer, are immaterial to Monogram, a company with a market capitalization of over $1.5 billion and assets of over $3 billion. These fees are the subject of unfortunate litigation only because Monogram has refused to honor its contractual obligations. The fact that Monogram is highlighting this immaterial dispute reinforces the fact that Monogram is trying to divert attention away from matters that are more important for the stockholders; namely, that Monogram has attempted to silence two directors who are aligned with stockholders and that strategic alternatives are not being adequately considered.

Importantly, Mr. Cohen denies the statements that are attributed to him in your letter. Such are either incorrect or mischaracterized. Mr. Cohen acknowledges that he met with Mr. Alfieri on several occasions to discuss the potential buyout of the series A preferred stock by Monogram, several times at the request of Mr. Alfieri. While there were separate settlement discussions between Mr. Aisner and Mr. Alfieri as related to fees that Monogram has a clear contractual obligation to pay to Behringer, these discussions were not linked by Mr. Cohen to his discussions on the series A preferred stock nor did he threaten litigation over such fees to pressure Monogram to repurchase the preferred stock held by Behringer. In fact, in response to questioning by Mr. Alfieri, and to advance the settlement discussions as related to the fee dispute, Mr. Cohen told Mr. Alfieri that he was not responsible for negotiating such matter on behalf of Behringer, and that Mr. Alfieri needed to discuss settling the fee dispute with Mr. Aisner, which separate discussions did in fact occur. Behringer believes its entitlement to these fees will ultimately be borne out in the pending litigation.

As you know, Mr. Cohen was appointed to the board of directors of Monogram (as the nominee of Behringer) as of March 1, 2016. In connection with this appointment, none of the directors on the board of directors, including Mr. Alfieri, raised with Mr. Cohen or Behringer (or, to our knowledge, for the record) any concerns about Mr. Cohen serving as a director of Monogram, including as a result of these alleged statements (which Mr. Cohen denies as indicated above).

Again, we believe the formation of the executive committee was intended to effectively remove Mr. Aisner, and now Mr. Cohen, from meaningful participation on the board of directors and prevent them from exercising their right to participate in deliberations of the board, and constitutes (among other things) a violation of Maryland law, Monogram's organizational documents and the contractual rights of Behringer.

To be clear, Messrs. Aisner and Cohen have not breached any policy of Monogram and have always conducted themselves in an appropriate manner. Messrs. Aisner and Cohen have and reserve the right to speak to shareholders and other interested parties, especially when those directors believe such action to be in the best interests of Monogram and its stockholders. Such communications are intended to advance the objective of the board of directors acting on a fully informed basis and consistent with their duties. As previously indicated, any such discussions and communications will not occur in the name of, or on behalf of, Monogram. In addition, those discussions will not involve the provision of any confidential information or non-public information to third parties by Messrs. Aisner or Cohen, consistent with the policies of Monogram. Behringer reserves all rights, including, pursuing all appropriate and necessary judicial relief.

Please contact me if you have any questions or want to discuss.

Sincerely,

/s/ Donald E. Batterson

Donald E. Batterson

CHICAGO LONDON LOS ANGELES NEW YORK WASHINGTON, DC WWW.JENNER.COM

2423442.5

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SOURCE Behringer

Related Links

http://www.behringerinvestments.com


Creator and organizer Rob Craven of North Haven Connecticut is taking the show into its second year. The show was launched in April 2015 with over 130 vendors and a crowd of over 15,000 attendees. "It's a celebration of all things local, a chance to help a lot of local businesses and artists meet new customers and promote their work," says Craven.

Craven has doubled the attending vendors this year and plans to double the attendance to over 30,000 local residents.

The expo's Facebook event page already has almost 17,000 people interested in attending the show. https://www.facebook.com/events/108179849574234/

"Almost every single company that exhibited last year is returning again this year, which is a huge testament to the impact of the show for them, not a lot of festivals and shows have that kind of vendor retention and it's something we're really proud of."

After six years on the local fair circuit, Amanda Proscino, 23, has already gained wisdom as a small business owner. A jewelry designer who runs the Queen of None said sales were booming at the expo.

"This is really great," said Proscino. "I will definitely come back next year."

"I think it's a great concept and really needed," says Serenity owner Aleta Gudelski. "I think people really like knowing where their products come from. They like knowing what's in the products they use. They like being able to pick something up and smell it and feel it. They like a personal connection."

Organizer Rob Craven says the hyper-local shopping experience will introduce attendees to some of the state's most creative entrepreneurs.

"One of the coolest things about creating this show was discovering those in-state companies we had no idea existed," says Craven. "People will have the opportunity to meet and talk with the people who live here in Connecticut and actually make what they sell."

Media contact:

Rob Craven

(203) 208-7356

SOURCE Connecticut Events Company
FAIRFIELD, Conn., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- HJ Sims, a privately held investment bank and brokerage firm, is pleased to announce the financing of Volterra at ChampionsGate, a Tuscan Isle Community and a new senior living community to be located in the mixed-use development "ChampionsGate" located in Four Corners, FL. The community will consist of 131 independent living apartments, 56 assisted living and 36 memory care suites, and will encompass approximately 220,000 square feet. Volterra at ChampionsGate will be a sister campus of Volterra at Solivita Marketplace, previously known as Tuscan Isle, which is being developed in nearby Kissimmee, Florida.

The independent living apartments will be constructed in a dedicated four-story building, while the assisted living and memory care suites will be located in a second building. Common areas for Volterra at ChampionsGate will include space for dining, activities and other amenities in approximately 220,000 square feet.

The site of the project is part of ChampionsGate, a mixed-use, master-planned development spanning approximately 2,300 acres, less than 20 minutes southwest of The Walt Disney World Resort. ChampionsGate consists of a variety of residential home units, a Del Webb active adult community, a luxury four-diamond Omni Resort, the ChampionsGate Golf Club, which includes two 18-hole championship golf courses designed by architect and golfer, Greg Norman, as well as the Leadbetter Golf Academy, and a retail center called "ChampionsGate Village" that includes a Publix grocery store, casual and fine dining, a pharmacy, banks and a gas station.

"We are excited to add Volterra at ChampionsGate, a Tuscan Isle Community. We look forward to the residents taking advantage of our great resort, restaurants, golf facilities and retail outlets, and becoming a vibrant part of the ChampionsGate community," says Marc Reicher, Senior Vice President, RIDA Development Corporation.

The Series 2016 Bonds were issued through the Florida Development Finance Corporation and consist of $48,240,000 in tax-exempt bond proceeds, as well as $2,930,000 in taxable bond proceeds. Sims also raised $6,800,000 of corporate bonds through a private placement to its extensive accredited investor base, which, collectively with the Series 2016 Bonds, was used to fund the Project, Debt Service Reserve, Operating and Capitalized Interest Funds, and pay certain costs of issuance.

"Our partnership with HJ Sims is very special to us. Our emerging relationship with ChampionsGate is exciting as is the continued expansion of our senior living portfolio." says Mike Comparato, Chairman, CEO Vieste Group, LLC.

The members of the owner of Volterra at ChampionsGate include: an affiliate of Vieste , a program management and development services company from Chicago IL; an affiliate of HJ Sims Investments, an established investor in senior living communities; an affiliate of Life Care Services, one of the largest owner/operators of senior housing in the US; an affiliate of Core Construction Services of Florida, the design builder and a Florida-based construction company with extensive experience in designing and building senior communities, and Windermere Strategic Partners, a senior living consulting group.

The operator has engaged Life Care Services, LLC, an Iowa limited liability company, as the manager of the project. Life Care Services, LLC has approximately 149 retirement communities under management contract, serving approximately 34,000 residents in 31 states and the District of Columbia. The development team includes Baker Barrios Architects from Orlando, Florida, as well as Solutions Advisors, LLC for marketing consultant services. The Master Developer is Vieste Social Infrastructure, LLC, an Indiana limited liability company.

"Sims is proud to be a part of this innovative, new community that will bring state-of-the-art senior living to the central Florida area. The location within ChampionsGate will make Volterra an exciting place to live and the strong management team will insure that the services are first rate," explains Jeff Sands, Managing Principal, HJ Sims.

ABOUT HJ SIMS

Founded in 1935 on Wall Street, HJ Sims is celebrating 80 years of service as a privately held investment bank and broker-dealer with approximately $1.8 billion of assets under management. HJ Sims is known as one of the country's oldest underwriters of tax-exempt and taxable bonds, having raised approximately $21 billion for projects throughout the US. The firm is headquartered in Fairfield, Connecticut, with investment banking, private client wealth management and trading offices in Maryland, Florida, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Texas and Puerto Rico. All client assets are custodied at Pershing LLC, a subsidiary of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. For more information, please visit: www.hjsims.com. Investments involve risk, including the possible fluctuation of principal. Member FINRA/SIPC. Follow HJ Sims on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Vimeo.

This is not an offer to sell. Such an offer should include a review of the Official Statement (available at www.hjsims.com/championsgate) which describes the terms and conditions of the 2016 bonds. Contact an HJ Sims Income Advisor for a copy of an Official Statement. The purchase and sale of securities should be conducted on an individual basis considering the risk tolerance and investment objectives of each investor and with the advice of counsel of a professional advisor. Investments involve risk including the possible fluctuation of principal. HJ Sims Investments, LLC, which is owned by certain principals of HJ Sims, is a member of the Obligated Group.

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SOURCE HJ Sims

Related Links

http://www.hjsims.com


NEW YORK, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowing a device market takes an understanding of the people making and using them, according to Kalorama Information. Kalorama Information announces that publisher Bruce Carlson will be speaking at the Special Libraries Association Pharmaceutical & Health Technologies Division Spring Meeting 2016 Tuesday, April 05, 2016, during a session at the association's meeting at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort in Orlando Florida. Kalorama Information is a major publisher of market research in healthcare, and will focus on the use of primary research techniques used by analysts to discover unique device trends. The session is entitled "Identifying Trends/Shifts in Medical Devices." Kalorama Information publisher Bruce Carlson has authored six reports on the medical device market, the firm's latest global device industry assessment can be found on its website: http://www.kaloramainformation.com/redirect.asp?progid=88533&productid=8983360.

"Although it seems to be an industry of cold, inhuman machines, you have to think about people to understand the device market," Carlson said. "Everything is used by a person, and the care aspect makes it different from assessing other products. Therefore we use human intelligence for the major part of our trend discovery."

Kalorama notes that secondary research, using previously published public or private source materials for research can be of great use in pharmaceutical market research but can be more challenging in a market assessment of medical devices. While FDA, CMS, patent office and other sources can be utilized for research into any device, Kalorama Information finds interviews to be the top methodological technique.

"Kalorama Information uses a blend of secondary research and primary research in all of its studies, but primary is always key," said Carlson. "Secondary can hide information such as niche markets, private company information, local competition in international markets and on-the-ground realities."

Kalorama attempts interviews of top players in its trend analysis and, according to Carlson, can expect anywhere from 30-50% response rate of the major companies in the industry. These interviews, combined with 2 to 6 month undertakings, including a review of company financials, medical journals, trade publications. Kalorama reports also feature analysis from an experienced analyst with a track record of analyzing markets, who can interpret developments in the industry, and that are not connected directly to the organizations surveyed.

"To do interviews successfully, the interviewer cannot be anyone near a competitive role in the market, they must be independent, Carlson said. "They also should be an expert. Asking questions requires the ability to understand the answers and place them in a reasonable context."

Kalorama Information's panel discussion at the Spring Pharmaceutical Special Libraries Association Meeting takes place Tuesday April 5th, 2016 at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort in Orlando, FL. The firm's report, The Global Market for Medical Devices, 6th Edition, can be obtained at http://www.kaloramainformation.com/redirect.asp?progid=88533&productid=8983360.

About Kalorama Information

Kalorama Information, a division of MarketResearch.com, supplies the latest in independent medical market research in diagnostics, biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and healthcare; as well as a full range of custom research services. Reports can be purchased through Kalorama's website and are also available on www.marketresearch.com and www.profound.com.

We routinely assist the media with healthcare topics. Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and our blog at www.kaloramainformation.com.

Contact:

Bruce Carlson

(212) 807-2622

[email protected]

www.KaloramaInformation.com

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SOURCE Kalorama Information

Related Links

http://www.KaloramaInformation.com


WASHINGTON, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District announces the appointment of Kenyattah Robinson as President and Chief Executive Officer, responsible for the enhancement and economic development of the vibrant Mount Vernon Triangle community in downtown Washington, DC. Robinson will begin his work at the CID on April 11th.

Mount Vernon Triangle CID Board Chairman, Dr. Joseph Evans, welcomed Robinson, saying, "Kenyattah impressed us all with his passion for our community, his commitment to working in partnership with our public and private stakeholders and his unique qualifications to lead the MVT CID forward in its next chapter."

"As a longtime resident of Mount Vernon Triangle, the opportunity to lead this organization, to connect with the neighborhood and make an impact, was incredibly compelling," said Robinson. "Mount Vernon Triangle is one of the fastest growing and most vibrant communities in Washington, DC, yet has a uniquely welcoming, neighborhood culture. I look forward to working with the CID Board and staff to further cultivate the qualities that make our community special while focusing on ways to make Mount Vernon Triangle a primary destination for anyone who wants to live, work and play in DC."

With more than 17 combined years of real estate finance, policy and public affairs experience, Robinson most recently served as a Senior Vice President and National Director on the DC-based Public Institutions team at Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), a financial and professional services firm specializing in real estate services and investment management. His responsibilities included helping public-sector organizations achieve their mission objectives through public-private partnerships and other venture strategies, and he has led or supported numerous capital budgeting, asset acquisition strategy and execution, asset and portfolio strategy and management, asset utilization and due diligence, and asset disposal strategy and execution projects on behalf of federal, state, local and non-profit clients. Prior to joining JLL as an Associate in 2006, Robinson held positions in commercial asset acquisitions at AEW Capital Management, the Law & Policy group at Fannie Mae, the staff office of retired U.S. Sen. John Breaux (LA), and as a student aide to the Program Director at the Louisiana Housing Finance Agency.

Robinson has demonstrated active thought leadership while speaking at regional and national forums on topics related to the increased use of public-private partnerships and other alternate financing strategies to acquire or reposition Federal real property, and to leverage private capital to procure renewable energy assets and enhance building energy efficiency. He earned an MBA from the Johnson School at Cornell University, where he studied as a Roy H. Park Leadership Fellow and a Robert Toigo Foundation Fellow. He was awarded the Robert J. Swieringa Young Alumni Service Award in January 2014 and currently serves as a member of the Cornell University Council. A New Orleans native of the Upper Ninth Ward and graduate of the prestigious Benjamin Franklin Senior High School, Robinson earned his BA in liberal arts with a minor in business administration from Louisiana State University (LSU), where he was awarded the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award, was 1 of 25 members of the senior class chosen as a member of Leadership LSU, and supplemented his education with White House and Capitol Hill internships.

Robinson has served on the executive board of the African American Real Estate Professionals (AAREP) of DC; the Planning Committee for GovEnergy, a tradeshow and workshop designed to help Federal agencies meet energy management goals and mandates; and on the executive board for the Children of Kibera Foundationan international charitable and educational non-profit working to create opportunities for orphans and vulnerable children living in the Kibera slums of Nairobi, Kenya.

Robinson was recognized as a "40 Under 40" finance professional by the Robert Toigo Foundation in 2014, a "40 Under 40" real estate professional by Real Estate Forum in 2011 and received JLL's prestigious "Catalyst Award" in 2013. He proudly maintains his status as an Eagle Scout and lives in the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood of Washington, DC with his wife, Marnique Heath Robinson.

About The Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District

The Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District is a private, nonprofit organization established to enhance the overall quality of life for all members of the community including residents, visitors, business owners, and property owners in the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood in Downtown DC. The Mount Vernon Triangle is considered to be one of Washington DC's best examples of a mixed-use community, at the heart of the Cityboth geographically and culturally. Its boundaries include 17 blocks within the East End of downtown Washington, D.C., bordered by Seventh Street to the west, Massachusetts Avenue to the south, New York Avenue to the north and New Jersey Avenue to the east. The Mount Vernon Triangle is a welcoming, authentic, and centered neighborhood that mirrors the City's unique mix of historic and modern buildings, longtime and new residents, and diverse cultures, restaurants, and urban experiences. For more information, we invite you to explore our website at www.mvtcid.org or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MountVernonTriangleCID or Twitter @MVTCID.

Media Contact: Karen Widmayer

KW Communications, LLC

[email protected]

301.661.1448

SOURCE Mount Vernon Triangle Community Improvement District

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Reports have come out that J&J wants to put litigation "to rest" over the power morcellator devices. Approximately 100 cases have been either filed or prepared for suit against J&J's Ethicon unit over its laparoscopic power morcellator device. And according to Fierce Medical Devices, "Of those 100 claims, J&J has settled almost 70 over the past few months, Paul Pennock, a plaintiff lawyer and co-lead counsel on the steering committee for consolidated litigation in a Kansas City, KS, federal court told The Wall Street Journal."

Separate morcellator cases are still pending in state courts. According to Drug Watch, the lawsuits accuse Ethicon "of designing a defective product and failing to warn patients of risks." The morcellator device has sparked controversy, with risks of unintentionally spreading uterine cancer. In April of 2014, the FDA put out a warning stating that the risk was 1 in 350. That same month, J&J recalled their morcellators from the market, however, lawsuits have been growing against the company.

Morcellators have been used in different laparoscopic surgeries, including hysterectomy and myomectomy procedures, as well as laparoscopic spleen and renal surgeries. While the morcellator device provides a less invasive surgery and quicker recovery time, the following have been listed as potential side effects:

spread of malignant tissue

advanced-stage cancerous growths

metastatic leiomyosarcoma (an aggressive uterine cancer)

If you, or a loved one, have been injured by a morcellation device, please contact Legal-Bay if you need any assistance on your specific case.

Chris Janish, CEO, commented on the recent news, "We have started to see more activity on morcellator cases as of late, with plaintiffs alleging serious injuries and advanced stage cancer. Our firm has been dedicated to helping patients or their family members get the lawsuit cash advance they need, as well as assistance with getting a free consultation with a qualified morcellator lawyer."

Legal-Bay works with nationally recognized morcellator law firms and attorneys who can assist you with obtaining a free legal consultation on your potential lawsuit claim if you have not retained a lawyer yet. To request to speak with a qualified morcellator lawyer, contact Legal-Bay at: http://lawsuitssettlementfunding.com/morcellator-lawsuit-loans.php

Legal-Bay's programs are non-recourse lawsuit cash advances, also known as case funding. None of the programs should be considered to be a settlement loan, settlement loans, lawsuit loan, lawsuit loans, pre-settlement loans, or a pre-settlement loan. To learn more about Legal-Bay's funding process, visit: http://www.lawsuitssettlementfunding.com/funding-process.php

To apply right now for pre-settlement lawsuit funding, which can be approved within 24 hours, feel free to contact Legal-Bay on the company's 24-hour hotline at: 877.571.0405.

You may also fill out an online application to receive a free evaluation on your case at: http://lawsuitssettlementfunding.com

Legal-Bay LLC (as well as their related companies) is not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice on your case; however, Legal-Bay works with lawyers involved in mass tort litigations who can provide you with a free legal consultation at the consumer's direction.

Contact: Patty Kirby, COO/Head of Client Relations

Ph. 877.571.0405 Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Legal-Bay LLC

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WESTPORT, Conn., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- North Star Partners, LLC ("North Star"), one of Checkpoint System, Inc.'s ("Checkpoint" and, the "Company") (NYSE: CKP) largest shareholders, owning 3.9% of the Company's shares outstanding, delivered a letter to the Company's Chairman of the Board, Stephen David, today maintaining its opposition to the proposed sale of Checkpoint to CCL Industries, Inc. for $10.15 per share. North Star demanded that Checkpoint postpone its shareholder meeting in connection with the proposed transaction until after Checkpoint's shareholders have had an opportunity to elect a new Board to make strategic decisions on the future of the Company.

In the letter sent to Checkpoint today, Andy Jones, Managing Partner of North Star stated, "[r]egardless of what the motivations to sell the Company are, the glaring outcome of the proposed transaction with CCL is a massive transfer of value from the Company's shareholders to the shareholders of CCL," and that "[o]nly after allowing [Checkpoint] shareholders a voice on Board composition would it be appropriate to evaluate the proposed [CCL] transaction."

The full text of the letter follows:

March 28, 2016

Mr. Stephen N. David

Chairman of the Board

Checkpoint Systems, Inc.

101 Wolf Drive

Thorofare, NJ 08086

Dear Mr. David:

NS Advisors, LLC ("North Star", North Star Partners", or "us") currently owns 1,612,046 shares of Checkpoint Systems, Inc. ("Checkpoint", "CKP", or the "Company"), and we are writing again to express our extreme disappointment with your decision to sell our Company to CCL Industries, Inc. ("CCL") at a price that is substantially below the true intrinsic value of the business.

We have had the opportunity to review the preliminary proxy statement filed on March 17, 2016, and it confirms our suspicions that this was a poorly timed and fundamentally flawed sale process that resulted in an inadequate valuation of the Company.

As is detailed in the proxy statement, in June 2015, when Checkpoint's stock consistently traded above $10.00 per share, the Company initiated a process to take the Company private in a management-led leveraged buyout transaction. If successful, we believe management would have effectively "stolen" the Company from shareholders at a time when its stock price was under great pressure due to management's inability to deliver on the operating plan they outlined to the shareholders. Given the Company's poor operating results and the volatility that existed in the equity markets at that time, it is not surprising that management could not find a financial backer willing to partner with them.

Then, in the fall of 2015, as Checkpoint's stock price continued to experience a precipitous decline in value, the Company received an unsolicited inquiry from CCL to examine a potential transaction. Instead of focusing on the internal strategic initiatives that the Company commenced the year before, the Board decided to pursue a very limited auction process between CCL and one financial sponsor, even though at the time the Company appeared to have no plans to seek a third party buyer. Management has been consistently telling shareholders that Checkpoint was a "lumpy" business, but that better days were ahead due to a building backlog of high-potential customer trials. Management was also in the process of spending an additional $7  10 million on consultants and R&D. This spending depressed earnings and weighed heavily on the stock price, but was being justified as building for the long-term. It is clear to us that the artificially depressed earnings combined with a difficult stock market meant it was precisely the wrong time to pursue a sale of the Company. Selling from such a position of weakness all but guarantees that there would be a reduced level of interest from potential buyers and a poor pricing outcome. Indeed, the decision to even consider selling the Company when earnings were artificially depressed reveals the woeful lack of financial sophistication on the Board and the dire need to reconstitute it with members who will look out for the best interests of the shareholders.

The Board's decision to sell the Company at this time is illogical. Under George Babich's leadership as CEO, the Company has had numerous accounting restatements and earnings misses, which have driven the stock from a peak of roughly $18.00 per share in October 2013 to less than $8.00 per share the day before the CCL transaction was announced. However, Babich's abysmal managerial performance, while enormously frustrating for all shareholders, is not a reason to sell the Company.

In hindsight, it is clear to us the Board erred in making Babich the CEO. Instead of doing a proper search and bringing in a world class executive, this crony board elevated one of its long-standing members to the position. There is simply nothing about Babich's resume and track record that suggests that he is equipped to run a multi-segment, international business. Despite this, the Board elevated him from his position of retirement to CEO of our Company, a managerial position he had previously never held at a public company. If the Board is unhappy about how the Company is performing, as we are, it should replace Babich as CEO, not sell the Company out from under the shareholders.

Regardless of what the motivations to sell the Company are, the glaring outcome of the proposed transaction with CCL is a massive transfer of value from the Company's shareholders to the shareholders of CCL. On numerous earnings calls, CEO Babich has articulated a bright future of increased earnings potential for our Company and has cited our record pipeline of pilots as evidence of our future earnings potential. But the revenue line is not the only area of opportunity. In fact, in Checkpoint's most recent 10-K, we learned shareholders can expect a reduction in costs of as much as $18 million this fiscal year, which is an increase from the Company's previous target of $15 million and represents approximately 35% of the adjusted EBITDA our Company reported for all of fiscal year 2015.

Why would we sell our Company today for $10.15 per share when there is an opportunity to take this much cost out of our business? Why would we give up this earnings lever to the shareholders of CCL? This benefits CCL shareholders at the expense of Checkpoint shareholders, which is evident in the performance of CCL's stock price since the deal was announced. Since the deal was announced, CCL's stock price is up 12%, compared to the Toronto Stock Exchange Index, which is up 3%. This 9% outperformance is clearly due to the advantageous purchase price that CCL achieved in its negotiation with our Board. This 9% equates to $486 million dollars of incremental value for CCL stockholders. If Checkpoint shareholders were to receive just half of that incremental value, we would be getting an additional $5.85 per share, bringing the deal price to $16.00 per share, which is much closer to what a fair and reasonable value for Checkpoint would be.

Finally, the fairness opinion rendered by Checkpoint's financial advisor is based on valuing the Company on a 4.5-5.5 times EBITDA multiple. This multiple is absurd on both an absolute and relative basis given the fact that Checkpoint has traded at an average multiple of 8.2 times EBITDA over the last 3 years. There are simply no companies with the earnings and free cash flow profile that CKP has that trade for sustained periods of time at such low multiples, let alone change hands in an arms length-negotiated transaction with a strategic buyer.

We strongly believe the CCL transaction is poorly conceived and unfairly priced. We call on the Board to delay any vote on the proposed deal and instead accelerate the annual meeting so that shareholders will have the opportunity to vote on our proposed slate of directors. Only after allowing the shareholders a voice on Board composition would it be appropriate to evaluate the proposed transaction. The stock market and business values have improved greatly over the last month. We should pause the sale process to reevaluate what is the best way forward for CKP's shareholders. The proposed transaction robs the shareholders of the rightful value of their shares, and to continue on this path is a gross violation of the Board's fiduciary duty.

Sincerely,

Andrew R. Jones, CFA

Investor Contact:

Andy Jones

North Star Partners

203-227-9898

Media Contact:

Damien Park

Hedge Fund Solutions, LLC

215-325-0514

CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE PARTICIPANTS

North Star Partners, LP, together with the other participants named herein (collectively, "North Star"), intends to file a preliminary proxy statement and accompanying proxy card with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") to be used to solicit votes for the election of its slate of director nominees at the 2016 annual meeting of shareholders of Checkpoint Systems, Inc., a Pennsylvania corporation (the "Company").

NORTH STAR STRONGLY ADVISES ALL SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER PROXY MATERIALS AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. SUCH PROXY MATERIALS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE ON THE SEC'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. IN ADDITION, THE PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROXY SOLICITATION WILL PROVIDE COPIES OF THE PROXY STATEMENT WITHOUT CHARGE, WHEN AVAILABLE, UPON REQUEST.

The participants in the proxy solicitation are North Star Partners, LP, North Star Partners II, LP, NS Advisors, LLC, Howard Hoffmann, Andrew Jones, and Jane Scaccetti.

As of the date hereof, North Star Partners, LP directly owns 1,077,004 shares of common stock, $0.10 par value per share, of the Company (the "Common Stock"). As of the date hereof, North Star Partners II, LP, directly owns 535,042 shares of Common Stock. NS Advisors, LLC, as the general partner of North Star Partners, LP, may be deemed the beneficial owner of the 1,077,004 shares of Common Stock directly owned by North Star Partners, LP. NS Advisors, LLC, as the general partner of North Star Partners II, LP, may be deemed the beneficial owner of the 535,042 shares of Common Stock directly owned by North Star Partners II, LP. As of the date hereof, none of Howard Hoffmann, Andrew Jones, or Jane Scaccetti directly or indirectly beneficially own any shares of Common Stock.

SOURCE NS Advisors, LLC
BROOKLYN, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The NYU Tandon School of Engineering today announced it has been awarded a highly competitive $260,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to digitize the City Record. The project, which will be led by Jonathan Soffer, Professor of History and Chair, Department of Technology, Culture & Society at Tandon, will digitize the 1,723 volumes  or one million pages  of the City Record, from 1873-1998 and make them openly and freely available to the public on nyc.gov.

These volumes contain copious data on every aspect of the city's politics, society, economy, real estate and infrastructure development, employment, and expenditures and will aid scholars studying the city because of the depth and breadth of the data it contains, offering digitized resources unmatched by any other city. The digitized City Record Project will alter both the quantitative and qualitative study of post-Civil War New York as much as the wide availability of searchable digitized newspapers has in recent years.

The database will provide a treasure trove for public users (students, bankers, home buyers, family historians, urban planners, journalists) investigating the historical and financial development of New York property and infrastructure, or researching family history, with data going back generations to the 1870s. Moreover, its significance is not limited to New York City. As Stanford University historian Richard White observes, "It is the kind of project that has the potential to remake how we think about critical historical processes," and "the most robust digitization project that [he has] ever read."

Jonathan Soffer, Professor of History and Chair, Department of Technology, Culture & Society at Tandon, who will lead the project, said, "We believe that the digitization of The City Record will have an important impact on urban history and economics, and across the social science disciplines. No other city of New York's size and importance provides a comparable historical database. Due to the location of the portal on the heavily used nyc.gov website and the diversity of the data, we believe that this project will have an unusually large audience."

NYU Tandon School of Engineering Dean Katepalli Sreenivasan said, "The use of innovation to preserve historical data is an exciting opportunity for us and generations to come. I want to praise the National Endowment for the Humanities for their vision and congratulate Professor Soffer on undertaking this important task."

"The City Record is one of New York City's oldest continuously published newspapers  available every weekday, except for legal holidays, without fail since June 24, 1873. Digitizing these documents will further our understanding of how this City has evolved over time. This project will provide a powerful tool for increasing government transparency, creating a fully searchable database of more than a century of records," said Commissioner Lisette Camilo, Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS).

"We are pleased to acknowledge the National Endowment for the Humanities continuing support for preservation of the nation's historical documents and applaud NYU Professor Jonathan Soffer's commitment to making information about New York City government available. Successful completion of the project to digitize the City Record and make it available online via the City's government publications portal will provide limitless opportunities for research into a little-known, but rich resource for the study of New York City," said Pauline Toole, Commissioner, New York City Department of Records & Information Services.

"The enormous corpus of data produced by this project, thanks to the National Endowment for the Humanities, represents a major contribution to the community of researchers studying the history of New York City's built environment. The City Record data will open unprecedented opportunities to investigate, both at the micro and macro levels, the social, political and economic forces driving the historical transformation of the city," said Matthew A. Knutzen, The New York Public Library,

Linda May Uris Director, Humanities and Social Sciences Research Divisions.

Urban reformers started the City Record in 1873 to promote transparency after the famous Tweed Ring scandals. It publishes weekly reports and regulations from every department of city government, listing every payment, contract, appointment to office, infrastructure project, and vital statistics, such as weekly reports on contagious diseases.

The City Record includes an abundance of data on both the built and natural environment. Some examples include the periodic reports of all city agencies:

meeting minutes of the City Council and the Board of Estimate

contracts, payments, and bids for water, sewers, and streets

weekly reports on mortality and health and meteorological data

the disposition of law suits against the city,

documents on the construction of major historic buildings, such as the New York Public Library at 42d Street and the American Museum of Natural History,

thousands of documents that touch on the fabric of everyday life in New York City , such as the 1873 regulations for driving cattle through the streets of Manhattan , even the very first traffic code for automobiles (1901).

, such as the 1873 regulations for driving cattle through the streets of , even the very first traffic code for automobiles (1901). official canvasses of election, down to the election district level from 1878-1940, which can be compared with manuscript censuses,

lists of who worked for the city in minor jobs, and what they did, and who and why they were promoted, disciplined, or fired, and how much money they earned

complaints from citizens

reports on the Municipal Lodging House, including the weekly enumerations of the ethnicities of the homeless and the length of time they had been in the city

lists of property left by prisoners and the dead, yet unclaimed.

The NYU Tandon School of Engineering dates to 1854, when the NYU School of Civil Engineering and Architecture as well as the Brooklyn Collegiate and Polytechnic Institute (widely known as Brooklyn Poly) were founded. Their successor institutions merged in January 2014 to create a comprehensive school of education and research in engineering and applied sciences, rooted in a tradition of invention, innovation and entrepreneurship. In addition to programs at its main campus in downtown Brooklyn, it is closely connected to engineering programs in NYU Abu Dhabi and NYU Shanghai, and it operates business incubators in downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn. For more information, visit http://engineering.nyu.edu.

facebook.com/nyupoly

@nyupoly

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SOURCE NYU Tandon School of Engineering

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NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Shoney's, America's Dinner Table for nearly 70 years and the premier family casual dining concept for generations, is continuing its expansion plans and franchise growth with the opening of its newest location in Evergreen, Alabama.

Shoney's new 4,800-square-foot location at 77 Liberty Hill Place in Evergreen will feature the brand's iconic pillars: fresh quality food at a great value with friendly service. It will also feature a new, contemporary look and features including a full service granite bar with stacked stone, large TV's, fresh squeezed OJ, Espresso, salad and hot food buffet and a variety of freshly prepared options from the menu. And if guests want to drink to that, they can, as the new location will include a full bar.

For franchise owner Eric Ashford, who bought two existing Shoney's over the past ten years, building the new Evergreen was nearly three decades in the making.

"I started washing dishes at Shoney's 27 years ago and it has always been a dream of mine to build my own Shoney's," said Ashford. "I've been with the brand through thick and thin. What owner David Davoudpour has done for the Shoney's brand has truly been remarkable. He had always looked to the future and I can tell you the future for Shoney's is here and now."

Since acquiring the great American eatery in 2007, Davoudpour has been on a driven and spirited mission to reinvigorate and revitalize Shoney's, a family-friendly, southern-style restaurant brand. Shoney's was one of the first family casual dining concepts in the United States. Shoney's is now growing through franchising following an extensive revitalization effort.

"When I bought the brand, I declared that we would bring Shoney's back to the forefront by proudly serving delicious, fresh-never frozen food at a reasonable price," said David Davoudpour, Shoney's Chairman and CEO. "Shoney's is now ready to grow the brand by teaming up with franchise partners who share our commitment to this great brand."

Shoney's is offering franchising opportunities to qualified single and multi-unit candidates. For more information, visit http://www.shoneys.com/franchise/.

About Shoney's

Shoney's is a Nashville-based company with approximately 150 restaurants in 16 states. Since its humble beginnings in 1947 as a Charleston, West Virginia drive-in restaurant, guests have enjoyed Shoney's family-friendly, casual dining experience. Visit www.shoneys.com for more information on restaurant hours, locations and special offers. You can also follow Shoney's on Facebook, Twitter @Shoneys, Instagram and YouTube.

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SOURCE Shoney's

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BEIJING, March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Sinovac Biotech Ltd. ("Sinovac" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: SVA), a leading provider of biopharmaceutical products in China, today announced that its board of directors has adopted a shareholder rights plan (the "Rights Plan"), pursuant to which the board of directors declared a dividend distribution of one preferred share purchase right on each outstanding common share of the Company.

The Rights Plan is designed to assure that all of the Company's shareholders receive fair and equal treatment in the event of any proposed takeover of the Company and to guard against partial tender offers, open market accumulations and other abusive or coercive tactics to gain control of the Company without paying all shareholders a control premium. As disclosed on February 1, 2016, a special committee of the board of directors was formed following the receipt of a non-binding "going private" proposal, dated January 30, 2016, from Mr. Weidong Yin, chairman, president and chief executive officer of the Company, and SAIF Partners IV L.P. and/or its affiliates. Subsequently, the special committee received a non-binding competing "going private" proposal, dated February 3, 2016, from a consortium comprised of PKU V-Ming (Shanghai) Investment Holdings Co., Ltd., Shandong Sinobioway Biomedicine Co., Ltd., CICC Qianhai Development (Shenzhen) Fund Management Co., Ltd., Beijing Sinobioway Group Co., Ltd., Heng Feng Investments (International) Limited and Fuerde Global Investment Limited.

The adoption of the Rights Plan will help ensure that the special committee and the board of directors have sufficient time to consider and pursue any strategic alternatives of the Company that are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders. The Rights Plan does not prevent the special committee or the board of directors from considering or accepting any acquisition proposal if the board of directors (acting upon the recommendation of the special committee) determines that such action is fair, advisable and in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.

Pursuant to the Rights Plan, subject to limited exceptions, the preferred share purchase rights will be exercisable if a person or group acquires 15% or more of the Company's common shares or announces a tender offer for 15% or more of the common shares. Under certain circumstances, each right will entitle shareholders to buy one one-thousandth of a share of the newly created series A junior participating preferred shares of the Company at an exercise price of $30.00. The Board of Directors will be entitled to redeem the rights at $0.001 per right at any time prior to the occurrence of a triggering event.

If a person acquires 15% or more of the outstanding common shares of the Company, each right will entitle the right holder to purchase, at the right's then-current exercise price, a number of common shares having a market value at that time of twice the right's exercise price. We refer to the person who acquired 15% or more of the outstanding common shares of the Company as the "acquiring person."

Rights held by the acquiring person will become void and will not be exercisable to purchase shares. If the Company is acquired in a merger or other business combination transaction which has not been approved by the board of directors, each right will entitle its holder to purchase, at the right's then-current exercise price, a number of shares of the acquiring company's common stock having a market value at that time of twice the right's exercise price.

The dividend will be distributed on April 14, 2016 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 8, 2016. The rights will expire on March 27, 2017. The rights distribution is not taxable to shareholders.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include our inability to compete successfully in the competitive and rapidly changing marketplace in which we operate, failure to retain key employees, cancellation or delay of projects and adverse general economic conditions in the United States and internationally. These risks and other factors include those listed under "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 20-F as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," "continue," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this release.

About Sinovac Biotech Ltd.

Sinovac Biotech Ltd. is a China-based biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of vaccines that protect against human infectious diseases. Sinovac's product portfolio includes vaccines against hepatitis A and B, seasonal influenza, H5N1 pandemic influenza (avian flu), H1N1 influenza (swine flu), mumps and canine rabies. In 2009, Sinovac was the first company worldwide to receive approval for its H1N1 influenza vaccine, which it has supplied to the Chinese Government's vaccination campaign and stockpiling program. The Company is also the only supplier of the H5N1 pandemic influenza vaccine to the government stockpiling program. Sinovac's newly developed innovative vaccine against HFMD caused by EV71 entered the commercialization production phrase and will be launched into the market by the end of first half of 2016. The Company is developing a number of new products including a Sabin-strain inactivated polio vaccine, pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and varicella vaccine. Sinovac primarily sells its vaccines in China, while also exploring growth opportunities in international markets. The Company has exported select vaccines to Mexico, Mongolia, Nepal, Tajikistan, Bangladesh, Chile and the Philippines, and was recently granted a license to commercialize its influenza vaccine in Guatemala. For more information, please visit the Company's website www.sinovac.com.

Contact

Sinovac Biotech Ltd.

Helen Yang

Tel: +86-10-8279-9871

Fax: +86-10-6296-6910

Email: [email protected]

ICR Inc.

Bill Zima

U.S.: 1-646-308-1707

Email: [email protected]



SOURCE Sinovac Biotech Co., Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.sinovac.com


"Senator Booker has excelled throughout his life, from his performance as a student athlete, to his academic achievements at Stanford and Yale and as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, to his exceptional career of public service," said George Washington University President Steven Knapp. "He is an inspiration to the students who nominated him for this honor, and we are delighted that he will join us on the National Mall to inform and inspire our graduates."

Sen. Booker, who was elected to the Senate in 2013 after serving as mayor of Newark, New Jersey, for more than seven years, has established himself as an innovative and bipartisan problem solver. As a public servant, Sen. Booker often takes a hands-on approach, including engaging with citizens on social media. Sen. Booker formally accepted the university's invitation to speak via Snapchat.

"I am proud to be invited to speak to new graduates of one of the most politically engaged campuses in America who are called to serve and to make a difference in the world," Sen. Booker said.

Sen. Booker has emerged as a leader in Congress pushing for criminal justice reform, including sentencing reforms and working to ban solitary confinement for juveniles in federal facilities. He has worked with both Republicans and Democrats to create economic proposals, including small business investment and apprenticeship programs to foster greater economic mobility for more Americans. Recently, Sen. Booker announced a new initiative to increase access to healthy food at corner stores in underserved communities in New Jersey.

The senator's 2016 book, "United: Thoughts on Finding Common Ground and Advancing the Common Good," calls on citizens to embrace empathy, compassion, responsibility and action to help guide the nation.

After working as a lawyer fighting for tenants' rights, Sen. Booker was first elected to the Newark City Council at the age of 29. He served as the city's mayor starting in 2006. During his tenure as mayor, Sen. Booker led initiatives to increase affordable housing, increase educational opportunities, create new green spaces and parks and provide more efficient city services.

George Washington's Commencement is held on the National Mall, and this year's ceremony will take place on the grounds of the Washington Monument.

Previous GW Commencement speakers include Apple CEO Tim Cook, award-winning actress and alumna Kerry Washington, former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, First Lady Michelle Obama, former President George H.W. Bush and world-renowned chef and humanitarian Jose Andres.

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SOURCE George Washington University

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New Delhi, March 22 : India on Tuesday received visa applications for five members of the Pakistani team probing the cross-border terror attack on the Pathankot airbase in January this year.

"We have today received visa applications for five members of the Pakistan joint investigation team (JIT)," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said at a media briefing here.

"The modalities of the visit will be discussed now that we have the composition of the team," Swarup said.

He, however, added that he did not yet have the details of the JIT members.

Following a meeting with Sartaj Aziz, advisor to the Pakistan prime minister on foreign affairs, on the sidelines of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) ministerial meeting at Pokhara in Nepal last week, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj announced that the Pakistani JIT would arrive in India on March 27 and start its work from the following day.

Seven Indian security personnel lost their lives when terrorists from across the border attacked the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot, Punjab, early on January 2.

The Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack in which all the six terrorists also were reportedly killed.

The attack derailed the proposed foreign secretary-level talks that were scheduled for the middle of January after the two countries agreed in December last year to start a comprehensive bilateral dialogue.

India has since sent "actionable evidence" to the Pakistani authorities to bring the perpetrators of the attack to book.

Pakistan filed an FIR in Gujranwala last month against "unknown" terrorists in connection with the attack.

It also said that it would send a JIT to India to probe the attack.
New Delhi, March 25 : India has granted visas to five members of a Pakistani team probing the cross-border terror attack on the Pathankot airbase in January this year.

The Pakistani Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has sought seven-day visas after it reaches India on March 27, it was reliably learnt on Friday.

Following a meeting with Sartaj Aziz, advisor to the Pakistan prime minister on foreign affairs, on the sidelines of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) ministerial meeting at Pokhara in Nepal last week, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj announced that the Pakistani JIT would arrive in India on March 27 and start its work from the following day.

Seven Indian security personnel lost their lives when terrorists from across the border attacked the Indian Air Force base in Pathankot, Punjab, early on January 2.

The Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) claimed responsibility for the attack in which all the six terrorists also were reportedly killed.

The attack derailed the proposed Foreign Secretary-level talks that were scheduled for the middle of January after the two countries agreed in December last year to start a comprehensive bilateral dialogue.

India has since sent "actionable evidence" to the Pakistani authorities to bring the perpetrators of the attack to book.

Pakistan filed an FIR in Gujranwala last month against "unknown" terrorists in connection with the attack.

It also said that it would send a JIT to India to probe the attack.
New Delhi, March 27 : A team of five Pakistani police and intelligence officials arrived here on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack at the Pathankot air base in Punjab, sources here said.

The team will travel to Pathankot on Tuesday and will question witnesses, according to the sources. They said that the Pakistani team will be given a limited access to the Indian airbase where at least seven military personnel were killed after a gun and bomb attack by alleged Pakistani terrorists.

One civilian was also killed in the attack on the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. Six terrorists who had crossed over into Punjab from Pakistan were also killed.

This is for the first time New Delhi has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country. The access was granted as India hoped that Pakistan will bring to justice the alleged perpetrators, including Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar.

Indian investigators believe that Azhar, who was released after the Indian Airlines' IC 814 hijacking in 1999 in Afghanistan's Kandhahar, masterminded the Pathankot attack.
New Delhi, March 27 : Describing the imposition of President's Rule in Uttarakhand as a "murder of democracy", ousted Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Nabam Tuki on Sunday said the Narendra Modi government is trying to destabilize democratically elected non-BJP governments in the country.

"They have successfully experimented with my democratically elected government in Arunachal. They have succeeded with their dirty political game plan in Uttarakhand. They will surely target other non-BJP governments in other states," Tuki told IANS.

"They are adopting these dirty political game (President's Rule) realizing that people are no longer supporting them after they failed to implement their tall electoral promises," he said.

"The people have outrightly rejected them (BJP) in Bihar. I don't see much that people in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Puducherry would give the BJP a chance to rule after Modi totally failed to deliver 'ache din' (Good days) and for their divisive politics," Tuki said.

Tuki, whose Congress government was dismissed by imposition of President's rule on January 26 after 21 party legislators revolted against him, accused the BJP of disrespecting the constitution.

"They overthrow my government citing breakdown of law and order. Similar steps were adopted against the Harish Rawat-led government in Uttarakhand. Are they following rules outside of the constitution?" he asked.
Kolkata, March 27 : Hitting out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the CPI-M on Sunday accused the BJP of shielding West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and her Trinamool Congress in the Saradha scam and the recent bribery scandal.

Referring to a sting operation by Narada News where several Trinamool leaders were purportedly caught accepting bribe, Communist Party of India-Marxist's (CPI-M) West Bengal secretary Surjya Kanta Mishra wondered why Modi wasn't sending the footage to the Rajya Sabha ethics committee.

On a day when Modi campaigned in Kharagpur of West Midnapore district for the West Bengal assembly polls, Mishra in a series of tweets, hit out at the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool for forging a tacit understanding.

"Who is stopping the prime minister to send the Narada sting to the Rajya Sabha ethics committee? PM's party is trying to shield Trinamool, that's evident & clear. Setting," said Mishra.

"Why the CBI slowed down Saradha investigation? Who protected West Bengal chief minister and top TMC leaders? PM is silent in election meeting in Bengal.

"Why the influential ones behind the Saradha cam could not be identified even in two years? Is the BJP-TMC match fixing the reason? The PM must answer," said Mishra referring to the multi-crore chit fund scam in which several of Trinamool leaders were interrogated/arrested for their alleged complicity.

With Modi in his address calling the people of Bengal to vote for BJP, Mishra asserted: "Let killers of Gandhi & worshippers of Godse be busy in establishing busts of Nathuram!! Bengal vows not to let an inch of it to them."

He also sought to know the outcome of National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe in the Khagragarh blast in Burdwan district in which Bangladeshi militant outfit was found to be involved.

"Why did it take 7 days to order a NIA probe into d Khagragarh blasts? What is the Aoutcome of d NIA probe? The PM should answer," he posted.

Latest updates on Gandhi Jayanti 2019
United Nations, March 28 : UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon strongly condemned a powerful suicide bombing that ripped through Lahore's Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park.

Ban on Sunday called for "the perpetrators of this appalling terrorist act to be brought swiftly to justice, consistent with human rights obligations", Xinhua news agency reported.

At least 69 people were killed and over 250 injured, mostly women and children, when the blast occurred at Gate No. 1 of the public park where Christian families were celebrating Easter on Sunday.

The splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack and said it deliberately targeted Christians on Easter.

"We claim responsibility for the attack on Christians as they were celebrating Easter," a spokesperson for the terrorist group was quoted as saying.

"We had been waiting for this occasion... we want to convey... to the prime minister that we we have arrived in Punjab and we will reach you," it added.
Panaji, March 28 : Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Monday made a pitch to defence equipment manufacturers to set up base in the coastal state.

"I would like to take this opportunity to invite defence manufacturing companies from across India and the world to come and set up shop in Goa under the 'Make in India' programme," Parsekar said while speaking at the inauguration of the Defence Expo 2016 at Naqueri plateau in South Goa, 35 km from here.

"Goa is one of the fastest growing and industrially advanced state in the country. We have significant presence of several public and private sector manufacturing facilities in defence as well as aerospace segments," Parsekar said.

Promising convenient licensing procedures, Parskar said his "government had ensured ease of doing business by creating an investment promotion board which acts as a single window for all permission and licences required to operate an industry".

He also said Goa was one of the top tourism destinations in the country, which helped rejuvenate visitors and could be an ideal foil to the Make in India programme.

"Make in India has to be accompanied by rejuvenate in Goa," he said.
Chandigarh, March 28 : The Haryana cabinet on Monday cleared the bill that proposes to provide reservation to five communities, including the politically-dominant Jat community.

The bill is likely to be brought in the state assembly later on Monday.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had said earlier that the state government would introduce a new bill in the assembly's budget session for reservation to five communities, namely Jat, Jat Sikh, Tyagi, Bishnoi and Ror.

Khattar had made it clear that the existing 27 percent reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in the state would not be disturbed. The OBC community is opposing inclusion of Jats in their category for reservation.

A five-member committee under the chairmanship of the chief secretary was formed earlier this month to prepare draft of the Bill to grant reservation under the ambit of constitution.

The Jat community has extended its deadline for the reservation demand till March 31.

The Bharatiya Janata Party government in the state had promised reservation for the Jat community and others after the recent Jat agitation for reservation left the state paralysed for nine days.

A total of 30 people were killed and over 320 injured and property worth hundreds of crores of rupees was destroyed as the agitation turned violent.
Beijing, March 28 : Nearly 95 percent of 400,000 white-collar workers examined last year in Shanghai were found to have health problems, a record high in the past five years, and many of them were overweight, a media report said on Monday.

The number of overweight workers rose from 15 percent in 2011 to 33 percent last year, and half of all men were found to be overweight, according to the report released by the health management centre and the human resources development research centre of Shanghai Foreign Service Co.

Besides being overweight, thyroid disorders and fatty livers were among the top problems, the China Daily reported.

The number of workers found to have health problems has risen each year, from roughly 87 percent in 2011, the report said.

Nearly 85 percent of the women had hyperplasia, or an increase in cells, of the mammary glands, a condition that can happen in connection with illnesses. The number was 52 percent in 2011.
Mumbai, March 28 : Industrial conglomerate Tata Sons on Monday proposed to increase its stake in AirAsia India to 49 percent.

According to Tata Sons, it plans to increase equity stake in AirAsia India to 49 percent from its existing stake of 41.06 percent.

"Tata Sons has entered into an agreement with AirAsia (India) ("company"), Telestra Tradeplace and two of the directors of the company, being S.Ramadorai (chairman) and R. Venkataramanan," the industrial conglomerate said in a statement.

"Under (the agreement) which Tata Sons proposes to increase its stake in the company to 49 percent from its existing stake of 41.06 percent, by acquiring 7.94 percent equity stake from Telestra."

The statement elaborated that Ramadorai and Venkataramanan, in their individual capacity, propose to acquire 0.5 percent and 1.5 percent shareholding respectively of Telestra's remaining two percent equity stake in the company.

"S.Ramadorai and R.Venkataramanan, in their individual capacity, propose to acquire 0.5 percent and 1.5 percent shareholding respectively of Telestra's remaining 2 percent equity stake in the company," the statement said.

"AirAsia Investment will continue to hold its 49 percent stake in the company."

Tata Sons disclosed that it entered into the agreement on March 14, 2016, and expects the transaction to be completed in April 2016, subject to the completion of all the relevant corporate approvals and processes.

Initially, AirAsia Investment owned a 49 percent stake in the budget airline, followed by 30 percent by Tata Sons and the rest 21 percent was held with Telestra Tradeplaces.

Last year, Tata Sons bought 11 percent of Telestra's stake, taking its total holding in the low cost carrier (LCC) to 41 percent.

Since the start of operations on June 12, 2014, the Indo-Malaysian airline has acquired a fleet of six aircraft and carried over 1.8 million passengers.

Currently, it operates flight services on 12 routes.

In the most recent quarter of its operation -- October-December 2015 -- the LCC logged a 134 percent growth in passenger traffic. It flew over half a million passengers, and operated 3,376 flights as compared to 1,444 flights in the same period of 2014.

Recent data furnished by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) showed that the budget airline's passenger load factor during February stood at 85.5 percent. It had a market share of 2.2 percent in the month under review.
Islamabad, March 28 : Hundreds of Islamists on Monday continued the siege of the heart of the Pakistani capital to denounce the hanging of the commando who assassinated the Punjab governor for alleged blasphemy.

Amid clashes with security forces, the estimated 2,000-strong gathering refused to disperse till the government meets their demands, including the implementation of Sharia, media reports said.

The army has been deployed in Islamabad's Red Zone to prevent the situation from getting out of hand.

The demonstrators were protesting against the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who shot dead the governor of Punjab, Salman Taseer. They want Qadri should be declared a martyr.

The Sunni Tehreek and other religious outfits involved in the demonstration that began on Sunday evening want the Sharia implemented in Pakistan.

On Sunday, the government called in the army to secure the Red Zone after the Islamists, then numbering some 10,000, clashed with police and Pakistan Rangers and set fire to containers and barricades.

Police fired tear gas as the crowds gathered about 700 metres from the parliament building, The News International reported.

On Sunday, some of them beat up journalists and attacked the Karachi Press Club, accusing the media of not giving their protests adequate coverage.

The Anjuman Talba-e-Islam (ATI), student wing of Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan-Noorani, on Sunday staged a demonstration on the eve of 'Chehlum' for Qadri.

Witnesses and police said dozens of charged ATI workers reached the press club wearing helmets to conceal their identities.

After a heated argument with cameramen, they started smashing the windowpanes of a parked vehicle of a private news channel and then set it on fire.
Hyderabad, March 28 : A court on Monday was set to pronounce orders on bail petitions of 25 students and two faculty members of University of Hyderabad as the public prosecutor did not file a counter to the bail plea.

A lawyer said the government had not opposed the bail, creating hopes that the students might get early bail.

The students and faculty members were arrested on March 22 during a police crackdown on those protesting the return of P. Appa Rao as the vice chancellor after a two-month leave.

A section of students want the sacking and arrest of Appa Rao, holding him responsible for the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.
Panaji, March 28 : The "crime scene" at the Pathankot airbase - attacked by terrorists from Pakistan - has been handed over to the NIA which will decide whether or not to give access to the Pakistani probe team, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

He categorically said that the defence ministry had "not permitted" the visiting team - comprising five intelligence and police officials - into the Indian Air Force base and that the crime scene, handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), had been isolated.

Parrikar said the defence ministry "refused permission" to the probe team to access the airbase but added: "The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call."

The minister said the area had been fenced and had no contact with the airbase. The probe team was not given permission to interact with any defence personnel or use any defence vehicle.

"If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry," Parrikar added.

The Pakistani officials arrived in Delhi on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack at the base in Punjab. The team will travel to Pathankot on Tuesday, informed sources said.

Six terrorists and seven security personnel were killed at the base.
Panaji, March 28 : A Pakistani team in India to probe the terror attack on Pathankot's airbase woud not have access to the base per se but only the isolated "crime scene", Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday.

Parrikar said the defence ministry had "refused permission" to the visiting probe team to access the base. "The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call."

Parrikar said only the National Investigation Agency (NIA) can tell whether it is taking the Pakistan probe team to the crime scene.

The Pakistani team comprising five intelligence and police officials is expected to reach Pathankot in Punjab on Tuesday.

The crime scene, where terrorists from Pakistan killed seven security personnel on January 2, has been handed over to the NIA and has been isolated.

But it lies within the sprawling Indian Air Force complex.

The minister said the area has been fenced, has no contact with the base and even has a separate entry.

"The area is isolated, taken out of the airbase, and completely barricaded."

He added that the Pakistani team has been given no permission to interact with any defence personnel or use any defence vehicle during its Pathankot visit.

"The directions are very clear. The crime scene should be barricaded, visually blocked. External entry has been given to the NIA. Who they bring in is their responsibility," the minister said.

"If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry," Parrikar added.

The Pakistani officials arrived in Delhi on Sunday to probe the January 2 terror attack. The team will travel to Pathankot on Tuesday, informed sources said.

All the terrorists and seven security personnel were killed at the base.

Parrikar had so far kept quiet on the issue as the air force chief, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, had said that the IAF had no objection in allowing the Pakistani team if the government agreed.

Raha also said that the IAF wanted a closure to the case.
Islamabad, March 28 : A day after a powerful blast ripped through a public park in Lahore city killing over 70 people, Pakistani security forces on Monday launched an operation against militants, the media reported.

The operation was initiated following an order from Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif. The decision to launch the operation was taken at a high level military meeting attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, The Nation reported.

According to sources, intelligence agencies, Pakistan Rangers and the army conducted five operations on Sunday night in Multan, Faisalabad and Sialkot.

The security forces arrested a number of militants and facilitators, sources said.

The attack at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park of Lahore city, the capital of Punjab province, left at least 72 people dead, mostly women and children, and more than 250 injured.

A Pakistani Taliban splinter group "Jamaat-ul-Ahrar" claimed responsibility for the attack, saying the group deliberately targeted Christians celebrating Easter.

Sunday's suicide bombing was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since the December 16, 2014 Army Public School massacre, which killed at least 134 school children prompting a government crackdown on Islamist militancy, and the launch of the National Action Plan (NAP).

"We must bring the killers of our innocent brothers, sisters and children to justice and will never allow these savage inhumans to over-run our life and liberty," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a tweet.

Pakistan has been plagued by militant violence for the last 15 years, since it joined a US-led campaign against Islamist militancy after the September 11, 2001, attacks by the Al-Qaeda in the US.

The security forces have killed and arrested hundreds of militants under the crackdown launched after the 2014 APS attack.

Pakistan's security agencies have long been accused of nurturing militants to be used against Afghanistan and India.

But some groups, such as the Pakistani Taliban, have now turned against the state.
Dhaka, March 28 : A court in Bangladesh on Monday rejected a petition which challenged a constitutional amendment that gave Islam the status of the state religion.

The Bangladesh High Court in a hearing on Monday dismissed the plea, bdnews24.com reported.

Qawmi madrssa-based organisation Hifazat-e Islam threatened to bring Bangladesh to its knees if the Bangladesh High Court repealed Islam as the state religion while the Jamaat-e-Islami called a nationwide shutdown for Monday.

During military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad's regime, the constitution's Eighth Amendment was passed by parliament on June 5, 1988.

It paved the way to insert Article 2A in the constitution, which gave Islam the status of the state religion.

A petition was filed the same year challenging the legality of the amendment since Bangladesh as a nation emerged in 1971 on the ideals of nationalism, socialism, democracy and secularism.

On Monday, the larger high court bench held a hearing over the amendment before scrapping the plea and disposing of the matter.
Lucknow, March 28 : Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik on Monday again rejected the names recommended by the state government for nomination as Members of Legislative Council (MLC).

The development brings into focus the growing rift between Raj Bhavan and the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) government in the state.

A statement issued by Raj Bhavan said the governor has sought a fresh set of names while returning the list to the state government after due consideration.

The five names that the governor has rejected twice, include Kamlesh Kumar Pathak, Sanjay Seth, Ranvijay Singh, Abdul Sarfaraz Khan and Rajpal Kashyap.

The statement further said the governor has also mentioned that during his last meeting with Akhilesh Yadav on the matter, he had been assured by the chief minister that a fresh list with new names would be sent to him soon.

The governor said there were criminal cases against many people whose names were sent for nomination to the legislative council, adding that under section 171(5) of the Constitution, none had experience and recognition in science, literature, arts, cooperative struggles and social service.

Akhilesh had sent nine names to Governor Naik in May 2015. But the governor rejected five names while approving the names of Leelavati Kushwaha, Ram Singh Yadav, Ram Vriksha Singh and Jitendra Yadav, on July 2, 2015.

The development is being viewed in political circles as a new addition to the souring relations between Raj Bhavan and the Samajwadi Party government in the state.

Naik had recently taken serious offence at the diatribe of cabinet minister Mohammed Azam Khan even suggesting that there were doubts of whether he deserved to be a parliamentary affairs minister or not.

The Samajwadi Party hit back at the governor by openly siding with Khan, saying that some people were hatching conspiracies against an "able politician, a good orator and a leader of people".
Beijing, March 28 : A Chinese fugitive, who was on Interpol's list of 100 most-wanted and who spent 17 years in hiding, surrendered in Shanghai, the media reported on Monday.

Zhang Liping, 64, a former president of a running-shoe maker firm in Shanghai who allegedly falsified value-added tax invoices, surrendered to the local police on Sunday, the Shanghai Daily reported.

She fled to Thailand in August 1999 and later hid in Peru.

Zhang's name was placed on an Interpol Red Notice naming 100 people wanted for their involvement in serious corruption-related cases and who had fled overseas.

So far, 25 of the 100 have returned to China.
New Delhi, March 28 : The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels would be high on the talks agenda during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Belgium on Wednesday, during which he will also attend the India-EU summit.

Prime Minister Modi will visit Belgium, the US and Saudi Arabia during his five-day three-nation tour beginning on March 30.

"The recent attacks in Belgium will be the starting point of the prime minister's engagement in Brussels," a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official said during a briefing ahead of the visit.

The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels, on Zaventem airport and the Maalbeek Metro station, claimed over 30 lives and left at least 270 people injured.

In Brussels, Modi will hold bilateral talks with the Belgian leadership and also attend the 13th India-EU summit. The last India-EU summit was held in 2012.

Modi will later travel to Washington, D.C., for the Nuclear Security Summit where he is likely to meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

The external affairs ministry spokesperson, however, declined to say if Modi and Sharif would meet in Washington.

"I'm sure that the prime minister would have some bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit," MEA spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

"Many of the meetings are a work in progress. It will depend on the schedules of the two leaders," he added.
Brussels, March 28 : The Belgian police on Monday released CCTV footage in an attempt to identify the third attacker involved in the Brussels airport blasts, whose bomb did not explode and who fled the scene.

The man is seen wearing light-coloured clothing and a hat, BBC reported.

Meanwhile, the Belgian Crisis Centre said the death toll in the bombings of March 22 at Zaventem Airport and the metro station has risen to 35, after four people succumbed to injuries in the hospital.

Separately, three men were charged with belonging to a terrorist group.

The three men - Yassine A, Mohamed B and Aboubaker O - were arrested during raids on 13 addresses on Sunday. A fourth man was released without charge.

More arrests have also taken place in relation to what authorities say were planned attacks on France.

A man already in Belgian custody was reported to have been charged in connection with a foiled attack in the Paris region.

Dutch police announced on Sunday evening that they had detained a Frenchman, 32, in Rotterdam at the request of French authorities.

He was arrested on suspicion of organising an attack in France and will be extradited to the country. Three other people were also detained.
London, March 28 : Shoppers should bring a list with them to minimise the chances of returning home only to find they forgot something, say researchers.

A list is especially helpful while shopping for things that you do not buy regularly, while you can generally rely on memory while buying familiar items, the findings suggest.

Although this may seem like an intuitive solution, statistics show that only about half of shoppers use lists, the study pointed out.

The findings were published online in the Journal of Consumer Psychology.

For the study, the researchers observed more than 700 consumers in different scenarios.

The investigators were eager to find out if people could predict how many items on the list they would remember to buy once they started shopping after they spent 10 minutes reading a story.

"One of our key findings is that people don't correctly anticipate when they are more likely to forget items," said Daniel Fernandes, assistant professor of marketing at Catholic University of Portugal.

"When we have something in our mind, it is hard to imagine that we will forget it," Fernandes noted.

This failure to predict our forgetfulness suggests that people should always bring a shopping list, he explained.

These findings could also have broader implications for performance at work.

"We often rely on our memories to perform familiar tasks at work, and those tasks will come easily to mind, but unfamiliar tasks are hard to recall," Fernandes said.

"To maximise our effectiveness on the job, it's important to pay special attention to those less familiar tasks and put them on the agenda," Fernandes noted.
Abu Dhabi, March 28 : The United Arab Emirates and Finland have signed an agreement on the exchange of information for tax purposes between the two countries.

The agreement was signed by Younis Haji Al Khoori, undersecretary of the finance ministry, and Riitta Swan, Ambassador of Finland to the UAE.

Al Khoori stressed the importance of signing similar agreements as they play a significant role in strengthening the financial and economic cooperation between countries, ensuring justice for individual or company taxpayers and protecting the national economy.

"Signing this agreement with Finland is a continuation to the series of international agreements previously signed between both countries," Al Khoori said.

UAE and Finland are associated by a joint committee based on economic, industrial and technical cooperation between the two countries. The two parties signed agreements for the avoidance of double taxation on income, and for protecting and encouraging investments in 1996.

The foreign trade between both countries amounted to 342 million UAE dirhams ($98 million) in 2015.
New Delhi, March 28 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators from that country to probe the January terror attack on the IAF base in Pathankot in India.

Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan had been harbouring terrorism against India and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

"We were saying ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed?" the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters here. "Prime Minister Modi has surrendered before Pakistan," he said.

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the January 2 terror attack blamed on Pakistani terrorists. The attack left seven Indian security personnel and all the terrorists dead.
New Delhi, March 28 : As India focuses on enhancing domestic production of military hardware, a surge in its export was recorded in nine months to end-2015, with the net value touching almost $210 million (Rs.1,400 crore).

According to the annual report of the defence ministry, the Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and the private sector companies exported products worth Rs.1,397 crore from April to December 2015. The final figures for the fiscal ending March 31 are yet to be tabulated.

Exports in the financial year 2014-15 were valued at Rs.994 crore.

"The trend in export shows phenomenal growth by the industry," the defence ministry report said.

It also lauded the role of private companies in the defence sector, stating that the exports by the sector had shown "accelerated growth" by 12-14 companies.

The major destinations for defence exports from India include Afghanistan, Algeria, Belgium, Ecuador, Indonesia, Israel, Myanmar, Nepal, Oman, Romania, Russia, South Korea, Sudan, Vietnam and the UK.

Among the major items being exported are Offshore patrol vessels, spares for radars, Cheetal helicopters, turbo chargers and batteries, electronic systems, light engineering mechanical parts and personal protective items, which comprise articles like helmets, bulletproof jackets and other types of clothing.

The report also observed that the online system for NoCs (No Objection Certificates) which was started in November 2014 is working satisfactorily.

In August 2015, the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for issuing NOCs for export of military stores by public or private defence industry were also revised.

Under this, the requirement of an End User Certificate to be countersigned or stamped by the government authorities has been done away with for the export of items like parts, components or sub-systems.

As the government promotes participation of private sector in defence manufacturing, the report also said that the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion has issued 319 Industrial Licences to 190 companies till January 2016.

Of these, 50 companies with 79 licences have started production.

The new Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) envisages providing a boost to the 'Make in India' initiative, enhanced role for private sector, and promoting medium and small scale industries.

It also has a new category of Buy Indian -- Indigenous Design Development and Manufacturing under which indigenously designed equipment with 40 percent content will be procured.

According to Sweden-based think-tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), between 2011 and 2015 India was the largest importer of arms, accounting for 14 percent of the global trade.

It, however, does not appear prominently in the list of defence exporters, with the top slot being taken by the US, which accounts for 33 percent of global arms export, according to SIPRI.

According to the Institute's analysis, adding together the data that states have made available on the financial value of their arms exports, the estimated total value of the global arms trade in 2013 was at least $76 billion. It adds that the true figure is likely to be higher.

(Anjali Ojha can be contacted at anjali.o@ians.in)
New Delhi, March 28 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing investigators, including an ISI officer, from that country to probe the January terror attack on the Indian airbase in Pathankot.

Kejriwal told the media that Pakistan had been harbouring terrorism against India and asked how its security and intelligence officials were being allowed to investigate something they had sponsored.

"We were saying ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) was responsible, it was a Pakistan-sponsored terror. Has this position changed?" he asked.

"Till now, Pakistan was held responsible for spreading terror. ISI (Pakistan's spy agency) itself sent terrorists to India and the same agency has now been allowed to investigate a terror attack," the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters here.

Kejriwal said it should have been "the other way round".

"Indian agencies should go to Pakistan to conduct probes as India is a victim of their terrorism but the opposite is happening and I can't tolerate this," he said.

"We don't know the reason behind this move (of allowing a Pakistani team to investigate Pathankot terror attack). Without any reason, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan," he added.

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the January 2 terror attack blamed on Pakistani terrorists. The attack left seven Indian security personnel and all the terrorists dead.
Bhubaneshwar, March 28 : Diarrhoea spells doom for the young parents in Odisha's remote areas, where the dreaded disease caused by Rota Virus is one of the highest in the country.

Among the reasons that make the condition more pathetic is unavailability of doctors in the public health centres, which is the only source of medical care for thousands of young mothers like Puru Mohanty, who lost two of her infant boys to diarrhoea a year ago.

Till now giving in to occult practices and herbal medicines were the only options for Mohanty, who has a week old daughter. But with the Government's recent launch of Rota Virus vaccine in the state she has got a ray of hope that her new born will survive.

The programme promises to provide the vaccine to every six-weeks-old infants for free at all the public health facilities of the state.

"This Rota virus vaccine is a great help to poor parents like us. I can't express the fear we had till now of losing our children to diarrhoea. I have lost two of my children, so I know the pain. I hope the vaccine prevents my week-old daughter from facing the same fate like my sons," Mohanty told IANS in Oriya.

She said that programme would also help her avoid travelling several miles for medical services.

Rota is a highly contagious virus that infects majority of children before their first birthday. It is the most common cause of severe diarrhoea among children, often necessitating hospitalisation, and leading to death.

Preeti Jena, a young mother from a village on the outskirts of Bhubaneshwar, said: "In our area, the children born in hospitals are given vaccines. However, there was no effort made to immunise the childen born at home against any disease."

The Rota vaccine programme aims to bridge this gap by sending health workers to village health centres to immunise the children against diarrhoea.

According to people in Khurda, Koraput and Malkangiri, many of the young parents in several parts of Odisha get drawn towards occult practices such as branding of infants with hot metals when they see nothing else works.

Under the vaccine programme, launched in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Haryana, Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) will go to all the public health facilities of these states and provide vaccines for infants up to six weeks. The second and third doses will be administered when the child is 10 and 14 weeks old, respectively.

Bijaya Laxmi Mohanty, an Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery worker, stated that one of their focus area would be to cover those who had been left out in the villages, where mothers are not able to turn up for the immunisation programme.

The programme is aimed at curbing the deaths of infants from diarrhoea -- 20,000 in Odisha. It will also help drastically reduce the 88,000 deaths and 8.7 lakh hospitalisations of children across the country every year.

In Odisha, Rota Virus-caused diarrhoea accounts for over nine per cent of the disease burden. The state has the highest number of children afflicted by the disease in the country.

Terming the occasion historic, union Health Minister J.P. Nadda said: "This is not a routine programme. This Rota vaccine launch sets the goal in the field of Indian health system."

Rakesh Kumar, joint secretary in the union health ministry, who is in charge of all immunisation programmes, said they would try and roll out the programme across the country in the next two years.

"This vaccine programme is a proven one and we are sure that it will bring down the incidence of diarrhoea caused by Rota virus," he told IANS.

A similar Rota virus vaccination programme has been tried in Mexico and Brazil, where the figures of affliction have dropped by 46 percent and 22 percent, respectively.

"Diarrhoea not only kills, but leads to malnutrition among our children. This is one of the best moves against Rota virus by any country in the world," said Kumar.

(Rupesh Dutta visited Bhubaneswar at the invitation of the Union ministry of health. He can be contacted at Rupesh.d@ians.in)
Islamabad, March 28 : A number of terror suspects were arrested across Pakistan following the Lahore suicide bombing that killed 72 people as the army decided to launch anti-terrorist operations across Punjab.

The army and Pakistan Rangers on Monday vowed to conduct "a widespread operation" in Punjab to target militants, their facilitators and hideouts, military sources told Dawn.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by army chief General Raheel Sharif.

Military spokesman Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said a number of suspects had been nabbed across Punjab.

A number of "suspected terrorists and facilitators" were arrested in raids conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan following the ghastly Lahore suicide attack on Sunday evening.

At least 72 people were killed and more than 300 injured when a suicide bomber exploded himself in a parking lot outside the main gate of Gulshan-e-Iqbal park when it was packed with families on Easter Sunday holiday.

Most of the dead were women and children who had poured into the park in large numbers to enjoy its many attractions including giant swings, joy rides and boating for children.

The park usually receives large crowds on weekends.

The wounded who are still being treated are warded in Jinnah Hospital, Lahore General Hospital and Sheikh Zayed Hospital. One official, Abdullah Khan Sumbla, put the death toll at 65. But others said 72 had died.

The military said a huge cache of arms and ammunition were recovered in the raids.

Police said the Lahore suicide bomber had been identified as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of Muzzafargarh.

Three members of his family have been taken away for interrogation, Dawn reported.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, chairing a high-level security meeting in Lahore, called for more pro-active coordination among law enforcement and intelligence agencies against terrorism, Radio Pakistan reported.

He said all provinces must step up intelligence-based operations against terrorists.
New Delhi, March 28 : In a major relief for Delhiites, the city government on Monday proposed to reduce VAT on a slew of products, including sweets, namkeens and readymade garments, from 12.5 to five percent.

Announcing the proposal in the Delhi government's budget for financial year 2016-17, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Manish Sisodia said that sweets and namkeens are daily consumable items and needed to be made cheaper.

He also announced reduction in the VAT on marble from 12.5 to five percent.

He announced that VAT on watches costing above Rs.5,000 has been proposed to be reduced from a high of 20 percent to 12.5 percent.

"We tried to bring balance in the rates of goods in Delhi on par with other states to avoid outflow of tax. It was made possible through voluntary compliance, and not through imposition," he said.

Sisodia said that VAT on battery operated e-rickshaws, hybrid vehicles has been proposed to be reduced from 12.5 percent to 5 percent.
Ranchi, March 28 : Two petrol pump staff were shot dead on Monday by criminals who looted over Rs.1 lakh from them in Jharkhand's Deoghar district, police said.

According to the police, the staff were on their way to deposit the money in a bank when unidentified motorcycle-borne criminals hurled bombs and later shot at them near Madhupur police station, around 300 km from state capital Ranchi.

One of the staff died on the spot while the second succumbed to injuries in a hospital. The victims were identified as Anup Kumar Dey (40) and Chandrashekhar Pandey (25).

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem.
New Delhi, March 28 : Director Gurvinder Singh, whose internationally acclaimed Punjabi film "Chauthi Koot" has been honoured with a National Film Award, says regional cinema has been neglected this year in favour of "commercial films". So, he feels it's all a "complete farce".

"Chauthi Koot", which has been screened at various international film festivals including the 2015 Cannes International Film Festival and Singapore International Film Festival, was named as the Best Punjabi Film at the 63rd National Film Awards announcement here on Monday.

Singh says the National Award for his movie was "expected".

"All the main awards have gone to commercial films. 'Baahubali', which is a totally crap film has got the Best Film award. I think it is a BJP award and not National Award," Singh told IANS.

"It's a complete farce and all the art films have been neglected this time. The National Awards are mainly meant for regional cinema, but they have been completely neglected this time. Overall, all the awards have gone to Bollywood," added Singh, pointing to the victory of films like "Baahubali: The Beginning", "Tanu Weds Manu Returns", "Piku", "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" and "Bajirao Mastani".

Interestingly, apart from the southern magnum opus "Baahubali", no other regional film was given a mainstream award this year. On social media platforms, the winners got a lot of flak.
Pathankot, March 28 : Authorities at Pathankot airbase in Punjab will take the visiting Pakistan probe team only to specific and limited areas within the Air Force Station (AFS) when it arrives here on Tuesday.

The Pakistan Joint Investigation Team's members will be kept away from the AFS' technical area and shown only those areas where security forces engaged the Pakistani terrorists in the first week of January.

Informed defence sources here said the team members could also be shown the bodies of the killed terrorists kept in a government mortuary in the town.

Officials of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) will accompany the JIT members.

The JIT will not get to interact with IAF or other defence and security officials and personnel involved in the 80-hour counter-operation by security forces against the terrorists who attacked the airbase in the early hours of January 2.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Monday in Panaji (Goa) that the Pakistani team would not have access to the operational area of the airbase, but only the isolated "crime scene", which has been completely barricaded and fenced.

All the terrorists and seven security personnel were killed at the base.

The January attack on the IAF base was the second one by suspected Pakistani terrorists. A group of three Pakistani terrorists had attacked Dinanagar town in adjoining Gurdaspur district on July 27 last year, leaving seven people dead.
Baghdad, March 28 : Iraq's parliament on Monday gave Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi until Thursday to present candidates for a new cabinet line-up.

The ultimatum is seen as part of proposed anti-corruption reforms aimed at confronting the country's economic crisis, Xinhua news agency quoted state-run Iraqiya channel as saying.

In a statement, the lawmakers set Thursday as the "final deadline" for Abadi to present his cabinet for parliament approval.

If Abadi misses the deadline, the statement warned, parliament will "interpellate" him early next week, the channel said.

The move comes a day after Shia cleric Moqtada al-Sadr stepped up pressure on Abadi by starting a sit-in protest inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses the main government offices and some foreign embassies.

Thousands of Sadr's followers have been camping in an anti-corruption sit-in outside the gates for over a week.
New Delhi, March 28 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave on Tuesday night on a three-nation visit during which he will attend the India-EU summit in Brussels and the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington.

Modi will attend the 13th India-European Union (EU) summit and a bilateral summit with Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel on Wednesday during his first ever visit to Brussels.

Addressing a media conference here on Monday, Nandini Singla, joint secretary (Europe West) in the ministry of external affairs, said that India-European bilateral summits started in 2000 and the relationship was turned into a strategic partnership in 2004.

"India is one of the 10 strategic partners that the EU has today," Singla said.

"The last (India-EU) summit was held in New Delhi in 2012," she said.

She said that EU continued to be a global economic powerhouse and was the biggest economy in the world with a GDP of $18 trillion.

The EU is the world's largest exporter and importer of goods and services.

For India, EU is the largest export destination and trading partner.

"Our two-way trade, including services, amounts to $1.6 billion," Singla said.

"It is also the largest source of foreign direct investment in India with $69 billion," she said, adding that the EU was also a global leader in establishing global norms and industry standards.

Singla said that during the summit meeting, India would aim to reinvigorate its ties with the EU.

"We seek to advance the India-EU strategic partnership by deepening and expanding cooperation," she stated.

Trade and investment would figure prominently during the summit meeting.

Modi will meet President of the European Council Donald Tusk and President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Junker.

The prime minister had met both these leaders during the G20 summit at Antalya in Turkey in November last year.

A number of agreements are expected to be exchanged following the summit meeting.

The March 22 terror attacks in Brussels will figure in Modi's bilateral summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Michel on March 30.

Singla said that India would look at enhancing India-Belgium cooperation in "areas of parity for us", and also counter-terrorism.

"The recent attacks in Brussels will of course be a very important part of the discussions," Singla said.

At least 35 people were killed in two explosions at the Zaventem airport and one at a metro station in the Belgian capital on March 22.

Singla said that during the bilateral summit meeting, India and Belgium would discuss cooperation in renewable energy, biotechnology, shipping, and information and communication technology (ICT) among other areas.

"We will also discuss how to enhance cooperation in multilateral issues and also how to step up high-level visits between both sides," she said.

The Belgian prime minister will host a luncheon meeting during which Modi will meet Belgian businessmen and CEOs in a bid to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI) in India.

Belgium is India's second largest trading partner in the European Union (EU).

Singla said that Modi would also interact with members of the Indian community in Belgium.

There are around 20,000 Indians in Belgium and many of them are engaged in diamond trading in Antwerp.

Another highlight of Modi's visit will be the technical activation of Asia's largest optical telescope at Devasthal near Nainital that has been built with Belgium's aid.

On March 31, Modi will leave for Washington on the second leg of his visit where he will attend the two-day Fourth Nuclear Security Summit (NSS).

Leaders of 52 countries and four international organisations are expected to participate in the summit.

On April 2, on his way back to India, Modi will drop in at Riyadh for a two-day bilateral visit to Saudi Arabia.

This will be the first prime ministerial visit from India to the Gulf after the visit of then prime minister Manmohan Singh in 2010.
New Delhi, March 28 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday unveiled a seven-point strategy to double the income of farmers in six years with measures to step up irrigation, provide better quality seeds and prevent post-harvest losses.

"In the past, the emphasis has been on agricultural output, rather than on farmers' incomes. I've set the objective of doubling the farmers' income by 2022," the prime minister told the Bloomberg India Economic Forum here.

"I have laid this out as a challenge. But it is not merely a challenge. With a good strategy, well-designed programmes, adequate resources and good governance in implementation, this target is achievable."

He also listed his seven strategies:

- Big focus on irrigation with large budgets, with the aim of "per drop, more crop"

- Provision of quality seeds and nutrients based on soil health of each field

- Large investments in warehousing and cold chains to prevent post-harvest crop losses

- Promotion of value addition through food processing

- Creation of a national farm market, removing distortions and e-platform across 585 stations

- Introduction of a new crop insurance scheme to mitigate risks at affordable cost

- Promotion of ancillary activities like poultry, beekeeping and fisheries.

"I am confident we will achieve the targeted doubling of farmers' income," he said, adding the doyen of Indian agriculture, M.S. Swaminathan, had himself written to him, saying the policies adopted hy his government were farmer-centric with a new income-orientation in farming.
New Delhi/Panaji, March 28 : An outraged opposition on Monday questioned the government's move to allow Pakistanis, including an ISI officer, into India to probe the Pathankot terror attack even as Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said the visiting investigators would only go to an isolated "crime" spot and not the entire sensitive airbase.

As the Congress and AAP launched a tirade against the government, Parrikar said the defence ministry had "refused permission" to the visiting Pakistani probe panel to access the entire Indian Air Force (IAF) base, where six Pakistani militants in a gun and bomb attack on January 2 killed seven Indian security personnel.

He said that the shootout area was "completely barricaded" and "visually blocked" to prevent any view of sensitive areas. "The area is isolated, taken out of the airbase," Parrikar told reporters in Panaji on the sidelines of the DefExpo 2016.

The site however is part of the sprawling 2,000-acre complex that houses high-value Indian defence assets, including fighter jets. The minister insisted the shootout site has no contact with the base and has a separate entry also.

"The crime scene has been handed over to the NIA. Who they want to bring there is their call. If we don't give (NIA) the freedom for investigation, the burden of failure will come to the defence ministry."

The Pakistani team arrived in India on Sunday to conduct its own probe into the Pathankot attack. Senior ISI official Lt. Colonel Tanvir Ahmed and Military Intelligence officer Lt. Colonel Irfan Mirza are part of the team, sources said.

The team will on Tuesday fly to Pathankot in a special BSF plane that will land away from the Pathankot airbase, official sources said. From there, they will be taken to the barricaded shootout spot where alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed militants were holed up during the gunfight that went on for some 80 hours.

India says that six terrorists from Pakistan-based JeM attacked the base on January 2. All the terrorists were gunned down in the gun battle that also left a civilian dead.

The Congress and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi lambasted the government and questioned how an ISI officer was allowed to visit India and permitted inside the airbase.

"It appears to be a case of an accused investigating himself. The BJP government has distinguished and, therefore, recognized that Pakistani establishment does not have a role in perpetuating terror in India, more so in context to Pathankot terror attack," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said.

"Why is an officer of the infamous ISI of Pakistan a part of the JIT?"

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal went a step further and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of surrendering to Pakistan by allowing the Pakistani investigators to probe the attack.

"Till now, Pakistan was held responsible for spreading terror. ISI itself sent terrorists to India and the same agency has now been allowed to investigate (the) terror attack," the Aam Aadmi Party leader told reporters in Delhi. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan."

The Pakistani probe team was on Monday briefed by National Investigation Agency (NIA) on the findings of its probe into the attack that was allegedly masterminded by JeM chief Masood Azhar.

NIA sources told IANS that the Pakistani investigators were given a detailed presentation on the evidence that "proves" that the attack was planned in Pakistan and had a link to Azhar's JeM.

The Pakistani team will also be allowed to speak to witnesses but not to the personnel from the National Security Guard (NSG) or the BSF. Minister Parrikar confirmed this and said the Pakistani team will interact with no defence person or use any defence vehicle during its Pathankot visit.

This is the first time that India has allowed Pakistani investigators to probe a terror attack in India blamed on that country. Also, Lt. Colonel Ahmed has become the first ISI officer to be officially allowed to visit India.
Agartala, March 28 : Referring to the political developments in Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, a CPI-M leader on Monday said that the Congress was getting back what it did before 1967 - dislodging non-Congress governments through manipulation.

"The then Congress leadership, before 1967, tried to dislodge non-Congress governments in the country by manipulating the legislators of other parties. Later, they lost assembly elections in eight states," Communist Party of India-Marxist central committee member Bijan Dhar told reporters here.

He said: "Now the Congress is getting a similar treatment in Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and other states. The Congress has a habit of forming governments by breaking other parties."

Dhar, accompanied by another CPI-M central committee member Gautam Das, also vehemently denied the charge of Congress leaders that former Tripura health minister Bimal Sinha was assassinated by the militants as he wanted to be the chief minister.

Commenting on the Yusuf Commission report, opposition Congress' leaders Sudip Roy Barman and Ratan Lal Nath on Monday alleged that Chief Minister Manik Sarkar instigated the assassination of Sinha.

"Their allegation is wild and a complete lie. If they have any such evidence, why did they not submit the same before the judicial commission when it sought the views of all concerned during the probe?" Das asked.

Challenging the Congress, the CPI-M leaders said if the Congress leaders failed to prove their charge they must resign from the assembly.

The inquiry commission headed by Calcutta High Court Justice M.A. Yusuf (retd), submitted its report to the state government in January 2000. It was presented in the assembly on March 23 following the Tripura High Court order.

The commission was formed in 1998 to probe the assassination of Sinha and his brother on March 31, 1998, at Kamalpur in northern Tripura.

"Without participation in discussions in the house over the commission report, the Congress is doing politics outside the assembly to derive political mileage," said Dhar, the secretary of the state CPI-M.
New Delhi, March 28 : The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) on Monday said that it will invest $5.1 billion for the development of two hydrocarbon fields in the Krishna-Godavari basin.

"Board of directors of ONGC approved the field development plan (FDP) for the development of fields falling under cluster 2 of the deep-water block KG-DWN-98/2," the state-run oil and natural gas explorer said in a statement.

"The development would involve a capital expenditure of $5,076.37 million."

According to the company, the cluster is projected to produce a total of 23.5 million tonnes of oil and 50.7 billion cubic meters of gas over the life of the field.

The project is set to be completed by June 2020. Natural gas is expected to be extracted from June 2019, whereas oil production is scheduled to commence from March 2020.
Kolkata, March 28 : Two men of Kolkata Police's Special Branch were suspended after BJP leader Rahul Sinha on Monday accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of using police to carry out a failed sting operation on him and demanded a CBI probe into the matter.

Sinha said the two had called on him at the party state headquarters and offered him a "fat amount" to "cooperate with them" in smuggling cattle to Bangladesh.

"I held them by the collar, slapped them and pushed them out of the office. Our partymen then dragged them to the police guards posted near our office," Sinha said at a hurriedly-called media conference here.

He claimed that the two Special Branch personnel -- assistant sub-inspector (ASI) Subhasish Roychowdhury and constable Aminur Rahman -- were later taken into custody by Jorasanko police station officers.

The BJP has lodged a police complaint and also moved the Election Commission demanding proper action.

Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner (headquarters) Suprotim Sarkar said both Roychowdhury and Rahman have been placed under suspension pending an inquiry, and the deputy commissioner (central) was looking into the matter.

Sinha said "it is clear Mamata Banerjee, who holds the police portfolio, tried to carry out a sting operation to frame the BJP and counter the fall out of the Narada sting video".

Video footage of a purported sting operation released by a portal Narada News showed a number of Trinamool Congress leaders including former union ministers and incumbent state ministers, MPs and MLAs allegedly taking bundles of cash.

On the action against the two Special Branch officials, Sinha said: "I don't know what will happen next. These two are only sacrificial goats. A probe has to find out who are the real culprits.

"So I feel the chief minister should ask the CBI to carry out the inquiry. Who had sent them, why they had come, on all these issues CBI should conduct an impartial probe."

Giving details, Sinha said ASI Roychowdhury had visited his residence in the city on Sunday and tried to meet him.

"I was then in Kharagpur. He told the security guards that he was a policeman. But when they connected him over phone to my personal assistant, he claimed he was a 'common man' and wanted to meet me for a 'personal reason'.

"They were given an appointment at 11.30 a.m. today (Monday) at the party office," he said.

"Today, when they came to the office, they said they wanted to speak to me over organisational matters. When I called them in, they said they wanted to send some commodity from India to Bangladesh."

After Sinha asked them to name the commodity, Roychowdhury said they were into cow smuggling and promised him a huge amount of money in exchange for his 'cooperation'.

After a furious Sinha drove them out and the duo was handed him over to police, the Special Branch men revealed their identity to their colleagues.

"The Jorasanko officer in-charge tried to convince me it was not a non-bailable offence, but I did not agree and told him cow-smuggling was an anti-national act."

Sinha said BJP workers and leaders cannot be sold for even Rs.25 crore.

"Mamata Banerjee still does not know the BJP. Her men can be sold for Rs.5 lakh. But not those of the BJP," he said.

"It is an attempt to slander the BJP ahead of the elections. We condemn this conspiracy. We will take this to the people."

Additional chief electoral officer Dibyendu Sarkar said they have received a complaint from the BJP over the incident.

Describing Sinha's allegations as a serious matter, state Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury sought a probe.

Renowned painter Samir Aich demanded immediate resignation of Mamata Banerjee, calling it a "shameful chapter in Bengal's political history".
Guwahati, March 28 : A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi blamed the Congress for the closure of 32,000 industries in Assam, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on Monday retorted that the Centre was to blame for the closure of the Cachar paper mill that has affected the livelihood of one lakh people.

Gogoi slammed Modi's "escapist attitude" and said the prime minister had turned a blind eye to the cause of the paper mill, in which production has remained suspended due to shortage of coal.

Modi at a public rally on Sunday near the now-defunct paper mill at Panchgram in Cachar blamed the 60 years of Congress rule at Delhi and Dispur for closure of 32,000 small, big and medium size industries in Assam.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi's escapist attitude has become apparently evident when he put the blame on the Congress for the closure of the Cachar mill, a unit of Hindustan Paper Corporation Limited, which is a central public sector undertaking... the central government is fully responsible for its premature and sudden closure," Gogoi said.

"The NDA government at the Centre has not done anything substantial for the revival of the Cachar paper mill, thereby putting at stake the future of one lakh people directly and indirectly involved in the mill," he said.

The Cachar paper mill, which has a capacity of producing one lakh tonnes of paper annually, uses about 550-600 tonnes of coal from Meghalaya every day. The problem started after the National Green Tribunal ordered a ban on unscientific mining of coal in Meghalaya in May last year.

On Modi's comment that the Congress government in Assam owes an explanation to the people because of the closure of the paper mill, Gogoi asked why the NDA government which was at the helm of affairs does not take steps for the mill's revival.

"The Centre should have taken the matter in right earnest with the NGT or facilitate supply of coal to the mill from other sources instead of depending solely on Meghalaya.

"Without taking any substantive step, the BJP indulged in mud-slinging and is playing with the sentiments of the people of Assam," Gogoi said.

Asking Modi what steps have been taken by the Centre in the last two years for revival of the mill, Gogoi said the prime minister by putting the blame on the Congress was just washing his hands of the responsibility and shedding crocodile tears for Assam.
Dehradun/New Delhi, March 28 : The political crisis in Uttarakhand showed no signs of ending with the Congress party moving the state high court on Monday against imposition of President's Rule as BJP leader and union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley justified central rule, saying the Congress government was "murdering democracy".

Meanwhile, a delegation led by ousted chief minister Harish Rawat met Governor K.K. Paul to protest against imposition of central rule in the hill state.

Justice U.C. Dhyani of the Uttarakhand High Court has begun hearing a petition filed by the Congress against imposition of President's Rule. The petition has been moved by senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi.

"We have come to show our strength and protest against the decision taken against our government," Congress' Bajpur legislator Yashpal Arya said after party MLAs led by Rawat met the governor.

He said the Rawat government should have been given time to prove its majority.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators from Uttarakhand thanked President Pranab Mukherjee for imposing central rule.

President's Rule was clamped on the state on Sunday, a day before Rawat was to seek a floor test in the assembly to prove he had the numbers.

The Uttarakhand assembly has been kept in suspended animation with the proclamation of President's Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution.

The Congress party has termed the move a "murder of democracy".

Meanwhile, over two dozen BJP legislators arrived in Dehradun to a grand welcome at the Jolly Grant airport on Monday.

Hundreds of BJP activists gathered at the airport exit to welcome the legislators, showering flowers and raising slogans.

The BJP MLAs had been camping in Jaipur, Gurgaon and New Delhi for the last one week, to avoid contact with the beleaguered Rawat camp and chances of horse trading since the political crisis erupted in the hill state.

State BJP president Teerath Singh Rawat said after his arrival that the state unit was thankful to President Mukherjee for signing the proclamation of central rule.

"We are very thankful to Rashtrapatiji that he acted as the true custodian of the constitution," he said.

Other BJP legislators targeted Rawat for drawing Prime Minister Narendra Modi into the issue and said he was doing so only to deflect attention from his failures, poor governance and corruption.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley justified imposition of President's rule, saying Rawat should have quit as chief minister after failure of the Appropriation Bill.

In a Facebook post titled 'A State without a Budget', Jaitley wrote: "This leaves the State without any approved financial expenditure with effect from 1 April, 2016. What better evidence do we need of a breakdown of Constitution? The Congress government of Uttarakhand was murdering democracy every day from the 18 March till 27 March.

"Having plunged the state into a serious constitutional crisis by continuing a government which should have quit after the failure of the Appropriation Bill, and further complicating the crisis, the chief minister started allurement, horse-trading and disqualification with a view to altering the composition of the house," Jaitley said.

He also criticised Uttarakhand assembly Speaker Govind Kunjwal for suspending rebel Congress legislators.

Terming this move of the speaker as unprecedented, Jaitley said, "This leaves the state without any approved financial expenditure with effect from April 1. What better evidence do we need of a breakdown of the Constitution?"

"It is now incumbent upon the central government to ensure that steps are taken under Article 357 to authorise expenditure of the state with effect from April 1," he said.

Jaitley said there are strong facts to suggest that the Appropriation Bill was actually defeated and as a consequence, the government had to resign.

The crisis in the hill state erupted on March 18 when nine Congress MLAs rebelled against Rawat's government, resulting in flip-flop in the passage of the Appropriation Bill. The BJP met the governor that day and staked claim to form the government.
Entertainment / Celebrity

by Michael Shoko

There is no stopping for former Miss Zimbabwe Malaika Mushandu as she was crowned World Super Model at a glittering event held in Bloemfontein South Africa on Saturday.The competition saw 40 models drawn from across the world battle it out for the coveted title.Discovered and natured by Mercy Mushaninga of Zim Gossip Models, Mushandu became the youngest ever Miss Zimbabwe winner when she was crowned Queen at the age of 17 years in February 2011.She then went on to achieve another milestone the same year when she was in the Top 10 of the Miss World pageant.In 2012, Mushandu represented Zimbabwe in the Top Model pageant held in Germany and won First Runner Up.World Supermodel International is a division of the World Supermodel Pageant, it is an International competition for models aged between 16-19 years and 20-30 years.The event was created to find out who are the next and upcoming Supermodels.This choreographed show reveals the world's latest fashions and leading designers whilst showcasing and promoting each representatives Country's culture and lifestyle to the rest of the world in an honest and fair competition.
Srinagar, March 28 : The 'Spirit of India' run - an initiative of former Australian parliamentarian Pat Farmer and the tourism ministry - entered the Kashmir valley on Monday.

On entering the valley after crossing the Bannihal or Jawahar tunnel - which connects Kashmir with Jammu and the rest of the world by road - Farmer said Kashmir was safe for tourism and the people should shun their prejudiced views to visit the beautiful place and enjoy themselves.

The eight-member team of Farmer comprises his wife Tania, crew manager Katie Walsh, doctor Joseph Grace, journalist Kevin Nguyen, film director Anupam Sharma and his three assistants.

The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department organised a cultural programme to welcome the team, in which artistes showcased Kashmiri art and music.

The 'Spirit of India' run under the aegis of the 'Incredible India' programme began on January 26 from Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu and will culminate at Srinagar on March 31 after travelling through various states.

It provides a unique opportunity to showcase Jammu and Kashmir's historical places of tourist interest in the Australian market.
New Delhi, March 28 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced that recruitment scores for government jobs will be made available to the private sector, as a new measure to improve the labour market and benefit the unemployed.

"Finally, let me turn to the major steps we have taken in the area of generating employment. This is one of my highest priorities," the prime minister told the Bloomberg India Economic Forum 2016, held here to commemorate the media group's 20 years in India.

According to Prime Minister Modi, government and public sector undertakings (PSUs) conduct a number of recruitment examinations and so far, the scores in these examinations have been retained by the government.

"Hereafter, we will make available the results and the candidate information openly to all employers, wherever consent is given by the candidate," the prime minister elaborated.

"This will create a positive externality. It will provide a rich data base which can be used by private sector employers as a ready-made and objective sourcing and screening mechanism."

The prime minister emphasised, that the new measure will reduce search costs in the labour market for both employers and employees.

"It will enable better matching of candidates from labour surplus areas with jobs in other regions," the prime minister added.
New Delhi, March 28 : India looks forward to the southeast Asian nation of Timor Leste joining the Asean bloc, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said on Monday.

She said this during a meeting with Timor Leste's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Hermani Coelho da Silva, according to external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup.

This is the first visit to India by a foreign minister of Timor Leste since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries in 2003.

Then minister of state for external affairs Omar Abdullah represented India in Timor Leste's independence day celebrations in May 2002.

According to Swarup, Sushma Swaraj said that Timor Leste's accession to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) would help India extend more support and cooperation under the bloc's mechanism.

She also expressed concern that bilateral trade between India and Timor Leste stood at only $3 million and said that both sides should explore new avenues of trade and investment.

She said Timor Leste could benefit from India's advancement in the health sector and low cost medicines.

There is a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) on health cooperation that is under discussion between the two countries.

Stating that conclusion of the MoU soon would benefit both countries, Sushma Swaraj said that India was happy to provide a fully equipped ambulance to Timor Leste in January this year.

The ambulance can serve as a mobile operation theatre.

"The external affairs minister also recalled that we had offered to sign an MoU for setting up a centre of excellence in IT in Timor Leste which has been pending since 2004," Swarup said.

In terms of capacity building, Sushma Swaraj said that India could increase Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training slots and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships for Timor Leste.

She also said that India could also consider imparting training to Timor Leste diplomats in the Foreign Service Institute here.

"The minister for foreign affairs and cooperation thanked the external affairs minister and said that Timor Leste had received a lot of support from India," Swarup said.

Da Silva told Sushma Swaraj that relations between India and Timor Leste went back centuries from the time Goa was under Portuguese rule.

Currently, Timor Leste has a population of 1.2 million and the median age of 18.6 years.

As such skills training for youth was very important, the visiting minister said.

"He invited Indian private sector companies to participate in infrastructure development, agriculture development and capacity building," Swarup said.

Da Silva also said that 11 oil blocks were also open for exploration by India.

"He said that a delegation of Indian businessmen could visit Timor Leste for which they would identify the appropriate sectors," the external affairs ministry spokesman said.

The visiting minister also requested an early meeting of the joint commission between the two countries at vice minister level.

"The two ministers also reviewed regional and global developments," Swarup said.

"Both countries have cooperated closely with each other in UN fora," he added.
Kolkata, March 28 : Ahead of the six-phase assembly polls in West Bengal, the Election Commission on Monday reviewed the law and order situation along the inter-state and international borders in the state, a poll panel official said.

The full bench of the poll watchdog led by Chief Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi held a video conference with officials of Bengal and adjoining states during the day on ensuring fool-proof security along the inter-state and international borders in poll bound Bengal and Assam, said additional chief electoral officer Dibyendu Sarkar.

"Internal law and order security was not discussed. The key points were on 'naka' or check points along the borders, inter-border movement of miscreants and movement of arms and weapons. There were detailed discussions on control and monitoring," Sarkar told the media here.

He said officials of the union home ministry were also present.

"We have requisitioned three helicopters for Junglemahal area from the home ministry," Sarkar informed.

For the preparations in Bengal where the first phase of polls will be held on April 4, Sarkar said 99,523 electronic voting machines (EVMs) and 7,176 VVPATs would be required.

For the second phase, 130 nominations have been received so far for the 26 assembly constituencies.
Hyderabad, March 28 : A court here on Monday granted bail to 25 students and two faculty members of University of Hyderabad even as protest continued on campus and Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao appealed to agitating students to rise above anger and confrontation.

The students and faculty members, arrested last week for ransacking the office of the vice chancellor and for allegedly attacking police while protesting his return after two-month leave, will have to spend another night in jail as the formalities for their release could not be completed on Monday.

Their families and friends are hoping for their release on Tuesday.

The 25th Metropolitan Magistrate's court at Miyapur pronounced the orders on the bail pleas as the Telangana government choose not to oppose the petitions.

The court asked the accused to arrange surety of Rs.5,000 each and appear before Gachibowli police station every week till the final disposal of the case.

Meanwhile, protest continued in the campus over the last week's police crackdown.

Students, sympathetic towards those arrested, boycotted the classes in response to the call for nationwide protest given by the Joint Action Committee of Social Justice, comprising 14 students' organisations.

Raising slogans against the vice chancellor and demanding his removal and arrest, hundreds of students took out a march even as police and university security stepped up vigil to maintain law and order.

Holding placards and raising slogans against RSS, ABVP, the central government and police excesses, the students marched to the main gate and staged a sit-in before dispersing peacefully.

The campus remained closed for outsiders amid fears of a fresh showdown as university authorities had vowed to resume classes despite the boycott call. However, the day passed off without any confrontation.

Meanwhile, Appa Rao on Monday said it was painful to see students and a couple of faculty members spending time in jail and appealed to students to rise above anger and confrontation and desist from violence.

"It's very painful to see some of our students and couple of faculty members from campus spend time in jail. While I wanted to intervene, legal system is beyond our control and jurisdiction.

"I request the students to resist any temptation for violence on campus or anywhere else, as it would not yield any productive outcomes. Please restrain yourself from causing pain to yourself, your parents and the university," said Appa Rao in a written and video appeal.

"You have all other avenues to express yourself. I humbly wish all students & student unions to sit together and resolve issues. I & my team will wholeheartedly support you in this endeavour," he added.

A section of students are demanding his removal and his arrest, holding him responsible for the suicide of Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

He had proceeded on leave on January 24 after he was named in First Information Report (FIR) booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.

Appa Rao's return on March 22 led to fresh bout of protest and violence with Joint Action Committee of Social Justice refusing to accept him as the head of the institution.

In a related development, the university set up a seven-member panel to hold talks with the agitating students.

"The committee would discuss with the student representatives about the matters that are negotiable from the list of demands submitted by them to the university," said the notification issued by incharge registrar M. Sudhakar.

Appa Rao on Monday appeared before State Human Rights Commission. He was directed to appear before the commission last week but the registrar had appeared on his behalf and submitted a report on Saturday.

The commission was dealing with a petition about the university authorities closing down mess and stopping supply of water and other amenities to the students. The registrar already informed the commission that the students are getting all facilities.

In another development, former union home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde met students and faculty members in jail and condemned the brutal police attack on them.

He said the students who were staging a peaceful protest were beaten up and arrested while the vice chancellor who has been booked under SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act is still roaming free.
Mumbai, March 28 : Over one lakh farmers from 27 districts in Maharashtra are expected to turn up for a rally in Nashik on Tuesday to be addressed by CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, an official said on Monday.

Yechury will raise burning issues concerning farmers like waiver of farm loans, power bills, drought, fodder, employment, compensation for crop damage and minimum support prices for crops as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission.

The rally is being organised by Maharashtra Rajya Kisan Sabha (MRKS), an affiliate of the All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), said AIKS joint secretary Ashok Dhawale.

"The policies of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre and Devendra Fadnavis in Maharashtra are against farmers. In his pre-election speeches, Prime Minister Modi had assured implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's report.

"After coming to power, it (government) filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court that giving this price to farmers was not feasible," Dhawale said.

Besides, there is no talk of giving farm loan waiver, which is estimated at around Rs.8 lakh crore across India and Rs.39,000 crore in Maharashtra.

"In the last two union budgets, the Modi regime showered corporates with tax concessions of Rs.12 lakh crore.

"Vijay Mallya, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Karnataka with BJP support, is allowed to flee the country though he has fleeced banks of over Rs.9,000 crore," Dhawale said.

Citing statistics, he said that in 2015, as many as 3,228 debt-hit farmers committed suicide in Maharashtra, with the maximum in Vidarbha and Marathwada regions.

Since 1995, a record 65,000 farmers have ended their lives in the state, making it a "graveyard for farmers", he said.

Besides Yechury, AIKS general secretary Hannan Mollah and journalist P. Sainath shall also address the rally.

The rally will mark the culmination of a six-month agitation by MRKS which included public meetings, awareness campaigns, loan-waiver conventions, road blocks, processions and 'jail bharo' with the participation of thousands of farmers across Maharashtra.

Latest updates on Howdy Modi Houston
New Delhi, March 28 : Focusing majorly on health, the Delhi government on Monday hiked its budgetary allocation for public health by Rs.472 crore over last year, and proposed a three-tier health system with opening of 1,000 mohalla (community) clinics and 150 polyclinics in various parts of the city.

Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Manish Sisodia, who proposed allocation of 16 percent of the total budget to the health sector, also announced 10,000 additional beds in the various city government hospitals over the next two years.

Sisodia announced a comprehensive Health Information Management System (HIMS), under which the government will provide health cards to all citizens, with a unique identifier.

In the budget, Sisodia proposed Rs.5,259 crore to strengthen the Public Health System. Last year's budget allocation for health was Rs.4,787 crore.

Sisodia emphasised the need for better health infrastructure and management to cope with the huge pressure of patients.

"Over three crore people from Delhi and neighbouring states go for OPD consultations and over six lakh patients take admission across the Delhi hospitals. It is therefore quite important to ensure effective management of the existing health system," Sisodia said.

He announced that all medicines and diagnostic tests have been made free of cost in all Delhi government hospitals with effect from March 1, 2016.

He hit out at other state governments and the previous Delhi government, saying that they had deliberately tried to jeopardise the public health sector in order to boost private health service providers for vested gains. He alleged that ministers owned hospitals and schools, which they promoted at the cost of public health and educational institutions.

Elaborating on his three-tier health system, which he called the 'Indian model of Health', Sisodia said that the West is citing the Delhi government's mohalla clinic examples to boost their own public health services.

The Delhi government has one mohalla clinic that is being run a on pilot basis in North-West Delhi.

"The first tier would be mohalla (community) clinics to provide immediate remedy or primary care to the public within their locality. The mohalla clinics would have doctors and medicines but not experts. These single-doctor OPDs seek to address most of the common health care scenario where the experts are not needed," Sisodia said.

He said that tenders had been rolled out for 1,000 mohalla clinics across Delhi while 100 would be opened immediately in rented buildings.

The second-tier would be polyclinics, where diagnostic test facilities with specialist doctors will be made available. However, admission facilities like hospitals will not be available.

"The polyclinics will be connected to the laboratory network throughout Delhi; 150 such polyclinics are planned, 29 have already started functioning," Sisodia said.

He added that the first and second -tier of health services would help in reducing excessive crowds from the main hospitals as patients with minor health problems could go to community clinics or polyclinics.

The third tier, Sisodia announced, would be hospitals which are being re-modelled and new institutions are being established.

"The reforms would provide 10,000 additional beds in Delhi by next two years. Health card with unique identifier would be given to citizens. We are also mulling the possibility of connecting the health card system with the school systems in future," Sisodia said.

Sisodia also proposed to expand the ambulance fleet with 100 basic and 10 advanced life support ambulances by July 2016.

To provide immediate medical help for rape victims, police and counselling service would be provided at 'One Stop Centres'. He proposed two such centres at Rao Tula Ram Memorial Hospital and Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital. Five such centres are already functional.

The government has proposed an outlay of Rs.70 crore for lab diagnostics, Rs.10 crore for Tele Radiology and Rs.5 crore for CT/MRI facilities -- on public-private-partnership basis.
New Delhi, March 28 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "surrendering" to Pakistan by allowing officials, including one from ISI, from that country to probe in India the January terror attack at the IAF base in Pathankot.

Kejriwal made the allegation in the media hall of the Delhi assembly shortly after Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia had unveiled the budget for the national capital for 2016-17.

With Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators holding a large Indian flag and hand-painted banners as the backdrop, Kejriwal went aggressive vis-a-vis the prime minister.

Kejriwal said that successive Indian governments had been stating for three decades that it was Pakistan and its intelligence agency ISI which had sponsored terrorism against India.

He questioned the logic behind allowing a Pakistani team access to the Indian Air Force base at Pathankot where Pakistani terrorists killed seven Indian security personnel on January 2.

"They (Pakistani state) have come to collect evidence of the very attack they sponsored?" the chief minister asked mockingly.

"Till now we (India) have said that it was all Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. For 30 years this has been the Indian government's position. Is this changing?

"If it is Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, how can they probe the attack?"

The AAP leader said that instead of letting the Pakistanis in, Indian investigators, including from the Intelligence Bureau, should have gone to Pakistan.

"We don't know the reason behind this move. Without reason, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has surrendered to Pakistan," he added.

AAP legislators raised slogans like "Pakistan go back" and "ISI go back".

A Pakistani team is in India to investigate the terror attack in Pathankot in Punjab.

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra added: "Pakistan will kill us. Pakistan will also probe. Pakistan will also be the judge. And they will decide our fate.

The Pakistanis, he said, were being fed "biryani" by the Modi government.
New Delhi, March 28 : South Africa exploited helpful bowling conditions to bundle out Sri Lanka for 120 runs in the final Group 1 match of the World Twenty20 at the Ferozeshah Kotla Stadium here on Monday.

Farhaan Behardien (2/15), Kyle Abott (2/14) and Aaron Phangiso (2/26) were the pick among the Proteas bowlers while leg-spinner Imran Tahir (1/18) was unlucky not to get more wickets. Experienced fast bowler Dale Steyn (1/33) surprisingly, gave away quite a few runs, although he did have some consolation in the form of a wicket.

Asked to bat first, the Lankans were off to a good start with openers Tilakratne Dilshan and Dinesh Chandimal scoring at a brisk pace. Dilshan was the highest scorer among the Lankan batsmen with 36 runs off 40 balls. Chandimal scored 21.

The duo added 45 runs before Chandimal went for a cover drive off Phangiso, only to miss the line as the ball crashed into the stumps. Phangiso then sent back Lahiru Thirimanne off the very next delivery with one that turned in sharply after pitching outside the offstump.

Dilshan and Milinda Siriwardana (15) tried to bring the Lankan innings back on track with a 30-run partnership. But South Africa wrested back the advantage when a superb piece of fielding by Faf du Plesis caught Siriwardana short of his crease.

By the time Dilshan was trapped leg-before while attempting a sweep off Behardien, Sri Lanka were in trouble at 85/5. Dasun Shanaka remained unbeaten on 20 off 18 balls, but the rest of the Lankan tailenders were unable to hold their own against the Proteas bowlers.

Brief scores:

Sri Lanka 120 in 19.3 overs (Tilakratne Dilshan 36; Farhaan Behardien 2/15, Kyle Abott 2/14, Aaron Phangiso 2/26) vs South Africa)
Mumbai, March 28 : BSE StAR MF, the premier stock exchange's mutual fund online distribution platform, on Monday said that it processed a record 81,000 orders worth Rs.270 crore on March 23.

"The platform received a record mutual fund orders worth Rs.1,048 crore on March 23, which is unmatched by any similar platform," the fund said in a statement here.

The fund processed a whopping 32.65 lakh orders worth Rs.43,000 crore from April 15 to March 28 in 2015-16.

"Ours is the only platform in the industry with multiple modes of funds and mutual fund unit settlement in demat and non-demat form, with switch over facility," the statement added.

To ease transactions, BSE has introduced many features for enabling payments through all modes, including cheques, SMS and e-mail-based order authentication, access to multiple modes of its mutual fund platform, overnight investment framework and digital and real-time registration on the platform.
Entertainment / Music

by Staff Reporter

The youth full musician Bhadilah real name Gift Lehlohonolo Ndlovu has revealed that he will soon release his new album that is set to thrill his fans this year.He said through his manager that he will be embarking on a tour around Matabeleland South.Bhadilah who has an album under his name is also currently working on another album which he will release this year.His 2014 "African Child" album which he released whilst doing his U6 at JZ Moyo High saw him being one of the renowned school celebrities."I have once again came back to life after a few months of break,no more stressing my ever loving fans,ngini phathele ezimnandi(I have brought you goodies)",said the Bas'makile hitmaker in an interview with Byo24.The Beitbridge born artist already has a new hit single rocking,Monday Yang'bhora is its title!"I am actually amazed by the response that people are giving about this track",said the BhadiZone king.Monday yang'bhora is just a track that speaks of how Mondays are boring to lots of people who are into partying,the artist wishes all days were weekend days.Bhadilah boy has also revealed that on his tour of Mat-South he will mainly visit schools with the intention of spotting singing talents in school pupils."I know there are so many youngsters out there who only need the assistance to help them raise their voices behind the mic.This is what I am going to do,I will be running around signing youngsters who are talented in singing.", said the 19 year old star.Schools to be visited will include his former school JZ.Moyo, Manama,Zezani, Collen Bawn,Vhembe,Siyoka and Tongwe.Bhadilah seems to be really in a good run in the industry since Future Jamelah took over as his manager.His manager also happens to be his former Form 2 teacher.
New Delhi, March 28 : Students' and teachers' associations here on Monday sought immediate removal and arrest of University of Hyderabad (UoH) Vice Chancellor P. Appa Rao in wake of the recent violence in the varsity campus.

The Joint Action Committee for Social Justice (Delhi), formed to fight for justice to Hyderabad varsity Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula who committed suicide, condemned the attack on its teachers and students in a crackdown after some students had ransacked VC's office in the campus.

"The Joint Action Committee for Social Justice strongly condemns the unprovoked and brutal lathi-charge on the students and faculty of UoH on March 22nd by Telengana Police, Rapid Action Force (RAF) and CRPF," the committee said in a statement.

"His (Appa Rao) sudden and secretive return to the university after a two months long 'indefinite leave' and resumption of VC's charge jeopardise any possibility of a fair inquiry and hope for justice for Rohith Vemula," it added.

The Federation of Central Universities Teachers Association (FEDCUTA) also condemned the attack on the students in Hyderabad as an attempt to curb dissent.

"There is an attempt to crush students and teachers movements. The students leaders are being attacked in one way or the other. We have right to discuss all kinds of issues. Because we're having discussions (about the issues) we are dubbed as anti-nationals," said FEDCUTA president Nandita Narain at a press conference.

Both outfits raised several demands including resignation of Appa Rao and judicial enquiry into the role of Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani for communal incidents in the campus and suicide of Vemula.

"We demand judicial enquiry into the role of HRD minister and union minister Bandaru Dattatreya in inciting violence against Dalits on campus and death of Rohith Vemula," they said in a joint statement.

They also further demanded passage of "Rohith Act" against caste discrimination in education and arrest of all culprits booked under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 in Vemula's suicide case.

Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers Association President Ajay Patnaik, Jamia Teachers Solidarity Association Manisha Sethi and Delhi University professor N. Sukumar, an alumni of UoH also expressed solidarity with the agitating students of the varsity.
New Delhi, March 28 : Former union minister Shashi Tharoor on Monday said India had completely changed its policy towards Myanmar as "it could not afford to surrender its influence" on a neighbour to China and Pakistan.

"India took a 180-degree turn. (Then) President (Pervez) Musharraf going to Yangon and a week later, our Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh (was) following suit and changing the policy approach. And all (Indian) governments, thereafter, decided that they cannot afford to be estranged with the next door neighbour," Tharoor said at a re-release of "State of Denial" by the late B.G. Verghese.

"India felt it cannot afford to allow its neighbour to foment trouble on its borders in the northeast. It could not afford to surrender its influence to China and Pakistan... It could not afford to surrender the economic benefits of natural gas and the democracy was not going to come by opposing military junta," he added.

However, he also said that when 1990 elections were set aside in Myanmar, India was the staunchest supporters of the democracy there.

"India was not only rhetorically on the side of democracy and freedom in Burma, something which many other countries were at a safer distance... it gave asylum to fleeing students, allowed them to offer their resistance movement and offered financial help and supported a pro-democracy newspaper and a radio station," he said.

However, Tharoor refrained from expressing his personal or party's views on India-Pakistan relations, the primary topic of discussion at the event.
Washington, March 29 : A man was shot by police on Monday at a security checkpoint of US Capitol complex after he appeared to draw a gun and point it at police officers, according to US Capitol authorities.

The suspect had been taken into custody and was transported to a local hospital, said Capitol police chief Matthew Verderosa here at a briefing.

No police officer was injured in the incident, said Verderosa, adding that a female bystander sustained minor injuries.

Previous local media reports had said that a police officer was injured by the shooter.

The incident occurred amid a busy season of tourism. However, local authorities assured the public that there was no reason to suspect terrorism.

According to a twitter post by Washington Metropolitan Police, the incident was "isolated" and did not present an "active threat to the public."

The Capitol complex was on lockdown for about an hour after the incident and staffers there were told to shelter in place.

The White House was also on lockdown as a "precautionary measure", according to Secret Service spokesman Robert Hoback, but the complex was soon cleared.
Integrating the Campus Connect chat application directly on ACT Profile will allow students to start an online dialogue with the schools theyre interested in attending...

CollegeWeekLive, the leading website where students and colleges connect online, has reached an agreement with ACT, Inc. to integrate its Campus Connect chat application directly on ACT Profile. This new communication capability allows students to live chat with college admissions representatives while theyre researching a school on ACT Profile.

Having the ability to connect live online with prospective colleges throughout the application process allows students to get timely answers to questions and make more informed choices. According to the 2015 Ruffalo Noel-Levitz e-expectations report, prospective students rated live chat with admissions counselors as their preferred channel of communication. This online engagement enables colleges to have a knowledgeable pool of prospective students, having a positive impact on the quality of applicants and their subsequent enrollment.

As a result of this new arrangement, students viewing a school page on ACT Profile will have the ability to live chat with an admissions representative from that school. With a click of a button they can get answers to questions about degree programs, campus life, financial aid, and more. Nearly 120 colleges and universities, including UCLA, Cornell University, and UMass Amherst, have representatives chatting on ACT Profile.

Admissions officers today need to recruit in the online channels that students prefer, said Sumant Mauskar, President of CollegeWeekLive. Todays students want to have authentic conversations with schools in real time. Were excited that our partnership with ACT will expand timely recruitment capabilities for our college clients.

Integrating the Campus Connect chat application directly on ACT Profile will allow students to start an online dialogue with the schools theyre interested in attending so they get more information and answers to questions that are important to them, said Steve Kappler, Vice President of Brand Experience at ACT, Inc. They can get their questions answered in real time, instead of waiting for a high school visit or campus tour.

For more information about meeting and engaging prospective students online, please contact colleges(at)collegeweeklive(dot)com or 800.828.8222.
In general, if your company has customer, employee, or patient data, it's at risk.

CSO Online's 2016 data breach blotter highlights the most recent security breaches of the year. According to the report, last year a record-setting 3,930 data breaches occurred, exposing 736 million records. Some of the more recent security breaches have affected retailers like Gyft, Neiman Marcus, and JB Autosports, tax software developers like Tax Slayer and TaxAct software, Hyatt Hotels, and academic organizations like the University of Central Florida, RateMyProfessors.com, and California Virtual Academies.

According to Andrew Rich, owner and CEO of Quikteks, a New Jersey technical support company, businesses of all sizes are at risk for data breaches. "While it may not surprise you that hackers have targeted tax databases this time of year, your business isn't necessarily safe from harm," he said. "In general, if your company has customer, employee, or patient data, it's at risk."

So, what can you do to protect your customer, employee, or patient data? Rich offered the following tips:



Provide security awareness training. "If you've ever received an email with a supposed invoice attached in a ZIP folder, you know how easy it is to fall prey to schemes designed to exploit your computer system," he said. "One click is all it takes to infect an entire network."

Install antivirus and anti-spyware software -- and keep it current. New viruses and malware are introduced all the time, making it important to keep your security software patched with the latest virus definitions and updates.

Set up a secure firewall to block unauthorized access to your network and its connected devices.

Use content filters to limit access to approved websites.

Encrypt sensitive data. Depending on your business type, such as healthcare, this could be mandatory.

Schedule a free IT assessment from Quikteks. "We'll come in and evaluate your current security and data storage systems," Rich explained. "Showing you areas of weakness and recommending corrective actions."

Whether your business is likely to be a specific target or not, securing your network is an absolute must to protect it from viruses, spyware, worms, malware, network intrusions, hackers, drive-by downloads, phishing emails, and other threats.

About Quikteks

Based in Fairfield, New Jersey, Quikteks delivers cutting-edge, reliable and cost-effective business technology solutions to small and medium-sized businesses in the Tri-State area. The company's computer solutions include 24-hour tech support, help desk support, computer support, consulting, and storing valuable and confidential data in a secure cloud.
We are extremely happy to have Debbie on board, said Rick Gray, TalentRISE Chief Executive Officer. She brings a depth of cross-industry, cross-function retained search experience coupled with strong client relationships on either Coast that will accelerate our penetration of these geographic growth markets.

Walsh has spent nearly 25 years in the talent strategy, acquisition and management field, most recently as a managing director at executive search firm Reilly Partners, and previously at Horton International. Prior to that, she served as Vice President of Strategic Talent at Zurich Financial, where she led executive recruiting, diversity and university relations, and was instrumental in developing a strategy for continued growth and excellence in talent acquisition for the organization. Before that, she operated her own retained search business, supported by a team of nine professionals, for 16 years, primarily serving Fortune 100 corporations such as IBM, HSBC, Pfizer, JPMorgan Chase and The Gap.

Debbie previously served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Lee Hecht Harrison, then the third largest executive outplacement firm in the U.S. She aided in the growth of the firm from five offices in the Northeast to 30 offices across the country. Her earlier career also included service to large corporations through a variety of leadership positions within the financial services industry including The Equitable and Travelers. Debbie is a frequent speaker on human capital management and related talent topics.

TalentRISE provides tailored, high-touch consulting and recruitment solutions to meet an organizations most pressing talent acquisition challenges. The firms core service offerings, delivered by a partner-led team of senior consultants and expert recruiters, include retained executive search to fill critical leadership roles; on-demand, project-based contract recruiting for scalable support of internal resources; and talent acquisition consulting to help formulate a roadmap for sustained competitive advantage.
News / Health

by Staff reporter

Health Services Board (HSB) has availed a new contract to junior doctors which the ministry of Health hopes will bring back "normalcy" to State health institutions.This comes as the union that represents junior doctors had escalated its dispute with the government over new contracts, with emergency cover being withdrawn for State-run health institutions.The new contract was availed over the weekend in which junior doctors will receive a total monthly package of $895 before deductions. Transport, on call and housing allowances, are included in the total package."The ministry reserves the right to withhold payment if the intern does not report for duty during the month or reduce amount payable proportional to the number of days absent without good cause," states the junior doctors' conditions of service.Ministry of Health permanent secretary Gerald Gwinji said the adjusted contract had been sent to the chief executive officers of central hospitals."The board, in consultation with the ministry and senior colleagues from the central hospitals has looked at the areas of concern raised by the recently qualified doctors and made the relevant adjustments to the contracts," Gwinji told the Daily News."The adjusted contract has been forwarded to the CEOs of central hospitals for administering. We look forward to a compliment of new junior resident medical officers."Junior doctors had refused to sign a government contract of employment claiming it violates women's rights and fair labour practice.It still remains to be seen how the junior doctors will take the new contracts as they state that women will not be eligible for paid maternity leave until they have served a year.The doctors were supposed to have commenced their duties at the beginning of this month but did not do so arguing their contract was not clear on salaries, allowances and non-cash incentives.
The credit card processing ranking site, CardPaymentOptions.com, scored MagicPay Merchant Services with an "A" in several of its grading categories and overall. The site evaluated MagicPay in several categories including sales and marketing, costs and contract, and complaints and services. MagicPay proved as a high performing credit processing company.

The review of MagicPay Merchant Services indicated an expressive record of honesty and upfront pricing. The review stated that the company does not appear to utilize any independently contracted sales agents. After carefully analyzing the company's web presence, researchers did not discover any indication of deceptive contact from the sales team. The company is unequivocal regarding policies and terms of service, as noted by the CardPaymentOptions.com. The review of the site ranked the site well due to lack of any grievances against the business. Consequently, the credit processing review site determined the legitimacy of MagicPay to reassure prospective customers of the ethical practices of MagicPay.

MagicPay's honest upfront pricing gains recognition by the rating company. This is another factor that contributes positively to MagicPay's image and overall grade. With a rating of 4.5 stars, MagicPay's positive review will impact the future of the company and change the way others perceive credit card processing companies.

MagicPay, a Boca Raton, Florida-based payment processor, provides a solution for merchant accounts of all types, but in particular, high-risk accounts. MagicPay conducts payment processing and payment gateway services to merchants all around the country. The company's skill set surpasses other similar businesses in terms of its strategic collection practices.

The founder and CEO of the company, Rami Levi, implemented a live support team that provides customer service that has proven to fair well. MagicPay runs on a tiered fee scale based on the type of service and also the level of service provided by MagicPay. The company's technology focuses on E-commerce, mobile, retail and MOTO credit card processing. The company boasts about their no-termination-fee policy.

CardPaymentOptions.com is based in Austin, TX and has a website dedicated to the merchant credit card processing field in an effort to change the industry. The goal of the company is to promote awareness of the merchant credit card processors who aren't complying with regulations. CardPaymentOptions.com wants to shed light on the companies that operate in an ethical manner and those companies that aren't run as advertised. CardPaymentOptions works with both small and large businesses and strives to protect consumers.

*CPO has no affiliation with MagicPay and has not contributed to the content or publishing of this article.
The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) announced MOVING Forward has been awarded the NASMM A+ Accreditation for its excellence in Senior Move Management operations and client services.

This accreditation decision represents the highest level of professional achievement that can be awarded to a Senior Move Management company, and demonstrates the organizations substantial conformance to NASMM standards, said Mary Kay Buysse, NASMMs Executive Director. An organization receiving a three-year NASMM A+ Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. A NASMM A+ Accredited Senior Move Management company has demonstrated to a team of reviewers its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.

MOVING Forward is the first Senior Move Management Company to receive the A+ Accreditation in the state of Wisconsin. There are 29 A+ Accredited Senior Move Management Companies across the country. Out of approximately 1000 NASMM member companies, less than 0.3% hold the A+ Accreditation.

Based out of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, MOVING Forwards mission is to provide a calm, safe, and happy atmosphere for seniors throughout their move. Working closely with our clients, we are there at every step as they transition to their new location. We provide all services from planning, packing, moving, floor planning, moving utilities, to unpacking, hanging pictures, and welcoming the client to their new home the very same day, says Marianne Gariti, owner. Helping seniors downsize with ease is one of our many specialties, she adds.

The NASMM A+ Accreditation Commission is the independent, nonprofit accrediting body of the National Association of Senior Move Managers. Its mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of Senior Move Management services through a consultative accreditation process focusing on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 2002, NASMM is the leading membership organization for Senior Move Managers in the United States, Canada and abroad. NASMM is internationally-recognized for its innovative programs and expertise related to Senior Move Management, transition and relocation issues affecting older adults. For more information about the NASMM A+ Accreditation process, please visit the NASMM website at http://www.nasmm.org.
Choice Home Warranty is proud to call New Jersey home!

Choice Home Warranty is excited to announce the 2016 Choice Home Warranty New Jersey Scholarship. This scholarship program offers a $1,500 prize for a New Jersey student who is working to make New Jersey a better state.

Headquartered in Edison, New Jersey, Choice Home Warrantys scholarship contest asks students to share how theyre making a difference in the great state of New Jersey. Students are encouraged to highlight their efforts in the community whether theyre saving the environment, organizing support, or helping out as a volunteer.

Choice Home Warranty is proud to call New Jersey home, said Choice Home Warranty President Victor Mandalawi. We know that high school students in our state are making a difference, and we want to celebrate their community-minded efforts with our scholarship contest.

New Jersey high school students interested in entering the scholarship contest must submit an essay sharing what theyre doing to improve Choice Home Warrantys home state of New Jersey. Essays should be original works between 750 and 1,500 words. The deadline to submit an essay is Monday, May 2nd, 2016.

In 2014, Choice Home Warrantys scholarship program awarded a $1,000 prize to Hung N. Le, a student of Pennsylvania State University pursuing a bachelor of arts in media studies. Les winning essay sharing his story of immigration from Vietnam captured the spirit of what home really means.

For more information about Choice Home Warrantys New Jersey Scholarship and to enter the contest, visit the Choice Home Warranty blog. For questions, please contact kelley(at)choicehomewarranty(dot)com.
The Vermeer, Vancouver, B.C. A high end project like this wont be the same if some kind of faux stone is specified.

Natural stone from the Indiana Limestone Company graces The Vermeer, a landmark recent construction in Vancouver, British Columbia. This high-end multi-use building embodies many elements incorporating classical architecture  a beautiful, traditional presence in a neighborhood dominated by contemporary glass buildings.

The 21,000-square-foot structure includes residential and retail spaces. The stone facade is assembled of Indiana Limestones prized Standard Buff product, 2 thick on the south elevation and 1.5 thick on the north elevation.

Natural Indiana limestone totaling more than 136 tons was required for the project, in both exterior and interior applications.

Red Leaf Stone of Vancouver supplied the stone. Architectural Stonemasonry, another division of Red Leafs parent company, Red Leaf Architectural Products, Inc., fully detailed and fabricated the entire exterior and handcrafted unique elements including family crests and medallions prominently displayed at the face of the building. Sun Valley Masonry of Abbotsford, B.C., performed the stone installation.

Project architect Jim Bussey of Formwerks Architectural, Vancouver, said several attributes of the stone contributed to its selection for The Vermeer. Primarily, we chose Indiana limestone because of its color, Bussey said, but also for its proximity to French limestone and its durability in our climate."

Its quite a good material for carving, he said. Certainly, the stonemason liked it because he could use proper carving techniques on it without problems with fracturing.

I dont think theres really an alternative to natural stone to produce the authentic effect that was sought for this building, said Duffe Elkins, chief operating officer at the Indiana Limestone Company. A high-end project like this wont be the same if some kind of faux stone is specified.

About Indiana Limestone Company

Indiana Limestone Company is unmatched as the premier supplier of Indiana Limestone in a range of beautiful and lasting building products. Founded in 1926 (with predecessor firms that had been quarrying limestone since the mid-1800s), ILCO today remains the provider of choice for this internationally renowned natural stone. Throughout an illustrious history in which its stone has made such iconic structures as the Empire State Building, National Cathedral, and the Pentagon, ILCO has reliably provided the highest quality products and services carefully tailored to the needs of the market with an environmental, natural focus.
It is our mission as an industry partner and educator to help our brokers and clients navigate these new frontiers with clarity and ease, using them to their advantage.

USA Risk Group, the worlds leading independent captive insurance management firm, will hold its eleventh annual Educational Conference at the Ballantyne Resort in Charlotte, North Carolina on May 17  19, 2016. With a changing landscape in risk management that offers both new opportunities and new challenges, this year's conference theme is New Frontiers." Each year, the conference attracts large numbers of captive owners and company representatives and consistently earns accolades from attendees who often consider it to be one of the top captive insurance educational forums offered. The Conference combines contributions from industry leading service providers, expert USA Risk Group personnel, and captive owner experiences in a format that helps attendees to apply best-in-class techniques and solutions to their own situations.

Gary Osborne, President of USA Risk Group, Inc. shares that, this years Annual Educational Conference will address hot button issues around the ever-changing landscape of captive insurance. At USA Risk Group, we view these changes as new frontiers. It is our mission as an industry partner and educator to help our brokers and clients navigate these new frontiers with clarity and ease, using them to their advantage.

USA Risk Groups talented speakers will provide updates on benefits, tax issues, investments, cyber security, and much more. Designed to be a balanced mix of session and social interaction, giving the entire experience a collegial feel, attendees should expect to walk away with a wealth of practical knowledge. The conference sessions are conducted in an open question-and-answer format and there is a free-flowing dialogue and exchange between presenters and attendees. Company owners, Vice Presidents, CFOs, Controllers, Treasurers, Risk Managers, Tax and Legal Professionals, and Agents and Brokers explore programs designed for all levels of captive involvement, from introductory captive concepts to innovative uses for reinsurance. New this year, USA Risk Group is offering a registration rate of only $189 for first time broker attendees.

USA Risk Group is the nation's leading independent provider of alternative risk management, offering innovative solutions that enable clients to maintain affordable and flexible insurance coverage, improve cash flow, and control expenses. More about USA Risk Group is available at: http://www.usarisk.com. For specific information concerning the conference or to register, please visit http://www.usarisk.com/2016-conference-info/.
Its the deep commitment to the needs of the industry that has made ExchangeMonitor Forums so vital: a place where policy melds with technology, where information helps business decisions.

ExchangeMonitor Publications & Forums is proud to announce the Global Environmental Management Forum & Showcase, which will take place November 1-3, 2016 at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C. Previously known as the Decisionmakers Forum, the newly-renamed Forum will gather decision makers within the nuclear industry to discuss new ideas, new markets, and new technologies in reducing nuclear danger and nuclear waste in the U.S. and internationally.

The goal of this program is to raise awareness of diverse global initiatives and projects, promote greater participation in international dialogue, and to focus on new waste and environmental management technologies. Also through this Forum, ExchangeMonitor is continuing the late Ed Helminskis legacy by creating an educational program that allows for open and authentic discussions with key industry and government professionals and experts.

As an independent source of education and news, ExchangeMonitor is able to offer, within an intimate setting, an atmosphere of open dialogue to learn, network, and discuss both opportunities and solutions to challenges facing the nuclear industry in todays climate. Participate in frank, honest discourse and leave with real answers and explanations, which cannot be offered at other events.

The theme of the Global EM Forum & Showcase is Building a Strategic Outlook for Nuclear Decision Makers. The program will include key topics such as:



Emerging technologies

Business and financial opportunities and challenges

How to engage a new generation for the workforce

Decommissioning and demolition

Large capital projects

Updates from major sites domestically and internationally

And more!

Taking place a week before the national election, there will also be discussions on how the election results could and will impact the industry. The showcase portion of the program will include a platform for organizations to present and discuss new and developing technology to attendees. Offering their expertise on planning and the focus of the program are a newly formed Advisory Committee, led by:

Llewellyn King, Founder of The Energy Daily and Executive Producer and Host of White House Chronicle

David Blee, Executive Director, United States Infrastructure Council (NIC)

Rob Smart, Program Advisor, formerly with Areva and Senior Fellow with the NIC

Nancy Berlin, Program Manager, ExchangeMonitor Publications & Forums

Its hard for me to tell you just how excited I am to help announce the Global EM Forum & Showcase, said Llewellyn King, Founder of The Energy Daily and Executive Producer and Host of White House Chronicle. Its the deep commitment to the needs of the industry that has made ExchangeMonitor Forums so vital: a place where policy melds with technology, where information helps business decisions. This educational conference will help to push this critical mission forward, King said.

Registration is now open for the 2016 Global EM Forum & Showcase, formerly known as the Decisionmakers Forum. Plan to join us now November 1-3 in Washington, D.C., to receive important insight into the inner workings of the nuclear industry.

To learn more about the program, speaking and sponsorship opportunities, and more, visit http://www.globalemforum.com.

About ExchangeMonitor, a division of Access Intelligence, LLC

ExchangeMonitor Publications & Forums, founded by the late Edward Helminski, was acquired by Access Intelligence, LLC in March 2015. ExchangeMonitor publishes professional newsletters and creates, manages and sponsors forums, colloquiums and workshops to facilitate an exchange of views and information among government officials, private industry executives, non-governmental organizations and other entities on critical national and international programs and policies.

About Access Intelligence, LLC

Access Intelligence, LLC, a portfolio company of Veronis Suhler Stevenson, is a b-to-b media and information company headquartered in Rockville, Md., serving the media, PR, cable, healthcare management, defense, chemical engineering, satellite and aviation markets. Leading brands include Weapons Complex Monitor, RadWaste Monitor, Nuclear Security and Deterrence Monitor, GHG Reduction Technologies, Defense Daily, Cynopsis, Cablefax, PR News, FOLIO:, AdMonsters, Event Marketer, LeadsCon, Chief Marketer, Media Industry Newsletter, Defense Daily Network, Aviation Today, Studio Daily, POWER and Via Satellite. Market-leading shows include The Radwaste Summit, The Decisionmakers Forum, The Nuclear Deterrence Summit, LeadsCon, CCUS Conference, The FOLIO: Show, Event Marketer Summit, SATELLITE 2016, OR Manager, LDC Trade Forums, Clean Gulf, ELECTRIC POWER, Energy Ocean and Offshore Communications. Access Intelligence also produces executive conferences for the healthcare, PR, media, cable, energy and defense markets.
Moving at the speed of trust I'm thankful to our technical team for making sure we are experts in our field.

Zunesis announced today that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Zunesis to its 2016 Tech Elite 250 list for the seventh consecutive year. This annual list honors an exclusive group of North American IT solution providers that have earned the highest number of advanced technical certifications from leading technology vendors.

To compile the annual list, The Channel Companys research group and CRN editors work together to identify the most customer-beneficial technical certifications in the North American IT channel. Companies who have obtained these elite designations which enable solution providers to deliver premium products, services and customer supportare then selected from a pool of online applicants.

Zunesis has been able to earn this recognition so many consecutive years because of the companys unwavering dedication to technical excellence. In a world of big talkers, Zunesis has committed to actually employ the technical expertise they sell. One of the ways they do this is by deciding what they are going to be great at and investing heavily in those areas, rather than trying to be mediocre at everything.

The solution providers selected for our annual Tech Elite 250 list have demonstrated a commitment to excellence and gained strong industry credibility by earning some of the most difficult IT certifications available from top technology vendors, said Robert Faletra, CEO, The Channel Company. Attainment of these exclusive certifications strengthens the channel as a whole by invigorating partnerships and enabling the delivery of exceptional customer service. We congratulate each of these organizations and look forward to their continued success.

We are thrilled to have earned this recognition, said Zunesis CEO, Steve Shaffer. Most notably, I am proud of our consistency. To maintain this level of technical excellence for seven straight years is quite an accomplishment. We are committed to staying sharp on the technological advances that occur each year, and Im thankful to our technical team for the hard work they put into making sure we are experts in our field.

Coverage of the Tech Elite 250 will be featured in the April issue of CRN, and online at http://www.crn.com.

About Zunesis

Zunesis is a leading IT solution provider with locations in Colorado and Nevada. Our vision centers around an intense focus on serving our customers and bringing value to their business through strategic IT solutions. In 2015, they were added to the CRN Next-Gen 250 list, recognizing them for their innovation and forward-thinking in the industry. Later, in March 2016, Zunesis was named to the CRN TechElite 250 for the 7th consecutive year as a best-of-breed solution provider with deep technical expertise and premier certifications. For more information visit http://www.zunesis.com, the Zunesis Blog; or follow us on LinkedIn.

About the Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequaled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace.

CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. The Channel Company logo is a trademark of The Channel Company, LLC (registration pending). All rights reserved.
This tradeshow is the Alaska Airmen Association largest community outreach program, and it provides us an opportunity to educate the public about the crucial role aviation plays in Alaska and its importance to the states economy, said Dee Hanson.

Alaskas premier event for flying enthusiasts and families as well as the states largest aviation tradeshow, the Great Alaska Aviation Gathering is held at the FedEx Maintenance Hangar at Anchorages Ted Stevens International Airport and offers free admission to the public. The Alaska Airmens Great Alaska Aviation Gathering will take place Saturday, April 30th, and Sunday, May 1st.

Nearly 300 exhibitors will showcase state-of-the-art aviation technology, products, safety, innovations and more. The show will feature more than 80 indoor and outdoor static displays of a wide range of aircraft, including light sport, general aviation, experimental, commercial, corporate and military. We are excited to have our military once again featured at the show. We have invited the huge C17, F22, Blackhawk Helicopter and a US Coast Guard C130, said Dee Hanson, Executive Director of the Alaska Airmen.

All aviation enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the Great Alaska Aviation Gatherings aviation only exhibitors, knowledgeable speakers, breadth of vendors, and more; but it is also an ideal free event for families. Children will enjoy this aviation extravaganza with fun, educational hands on activities and a kid-friendly scavenger hunt. There will also be many cockpits to explore and awe-inspiring flight demonstrations to watch. Both FedEx and UPS, world leaders in shipping and transportation, will offer tours of their larger-than-life company aircraft.

This tradeshow is the Alaska Airmen Association largest community outreach program, and it provides us an opportunity to educate the public about the crucial role aviation plays in Alaska and its importance to the states economy, said Dee Hanson.

If you just love aviation we have special sessions in the conference for you. Listen to a little bit of history as Noel Merrill Wien shares excerpts from his autobiography, Born to fly, which will be released at this years show. Mr. Wien is the son of legendary bush pilot Noel Wien. Experience John Wights harrowing story in person as he recounts the seven years he spent in a Madagascar prison as a political prisoner of war when the airplane he was ferrying was forced down in a storm. Have you ever wanted to fly drones for fun? Or, have you ever wanted to know what career opportunities might be available to you in aviation?

The Alaska Airmen will once again be giving away an aircraft at the end of the gathering. Raffle tickets are available now to win a Super Cub refurbished by Above Alaska Aviation, 160HP on bushwheels. A second prize winner will receive a set of Airglas GHL3000 Hydraulic Wheel Skis. Information for purchasing raffle tickets is available on the Great Alaska Aviation Gathering website, and tickets can also be purchased at the event. There are only 7500 total tickets available, so participants are urged to purchase them early.

Alaska presents pilots and community with endless opportunities, said Hanson. The ability to fly freely across the state gives residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the vast, untouched wilderness and experience Alaska in a way that isnt possible with road travel.

The Great Alaska Aviation Gathering would not be possible without the support of such generous sponsors as: FedEx Express, and UPS who provide the ultimate venue for this statewide event. Gold Sponsors include Airvan Alaska, Spencer Aircraft, Aerocet, National Business Aircraft Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Textron Aviation, Northland Aviation, Airframes Alaska,Wipaire and Grant Aviation. We also recognize Alaska CargoPort, Shaman Traffic Control, Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Mirror Studios, Sprocketheads, Denali Brewing Company, Airline Support, Lynxs Management and others who donate to the show through in-kind and discounted services.

For more information about the Great Alaska Aviation Gathering, including a full conference schedule and details on discounted airfare, hotel and rental car rates for exhibitors and attendees, visit http://www.greatalaskaaviationgathering.org.

About the Alaska Airmens Association

The Alaska Airmens Association is the largest state general aviation group in Alaska. A non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization, the Alaska Airmens Associations sole purpose is promoting and preserving general aviation in Alaska. Established in 1951 as an Alaskan Corporation, the Alaska Airmens Association is led by a volunteer board of eight directors. The association currently has 2,200 members. More information about the Alaska Airmen Association is available at http://www.alaskaairmen.org.
Jonathan Petit, Principal Scientist

What: Security Innovations Jonathan Petit, Principal Scientist will be joined by fellow industry thought-leaders from Delphi, General Motors, Peloton Technology and more in a panel discussion around Future Proofing: Security and Next Gen Automotive Technology. Attendees will learn more about the next stages of automotive technology including V2X, fleets and automotive cars, and what security requirements will be needed. Additional information about the session can be found here: http://www.tu-auto.com/cyber-security/conference-agenda.php.

Who: Since 2002, Security Innovation has been a trusted partner to organizations that want to understand where their applications are vulnerable and rollout a secure and repeatable software development lifecycle (SDLC). Security Innovation helps organizations protect sensitive data in the most challenging environments - IoT, web applications, mobile devices and in the cloud. By leveraging secure coding and embedded systems design skills, our experts help secure automotive communication systems, in-vehicle infotainment (IVI), over-the-air (OTA) updates, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and any other electronic control unit (ECU).

Why: Jonathan Petit is an industry innovator and connected car security expert. In his well-publicized research, Dr. Petit was able to fool a self-driving car into thinking there were other cars and pedestrians around it, stopping the vehicle in its tracks. This was achieved with only $60 worth of equipment bought over the counter.

Dr. Petit and others in the Security Innovation Embedded team help integrate security into connected vehicle applications and software.

Who Should Attend: Automotive cybersecurity experts, including automakers, automotive software providers, security researchers and others in the automotive industry.

When: March 30, 2016 from 10:00am  11:00am

Where:

TU Automotive Cybersecurity USA 2016

The Baronette Renaissance Detroit  Novi Hotel

27790 Novi Road

Novi, MI 48377
News / Local

by Ngoni Dapira

PLANS to set up a border post in Mutasa District have intensified following the recent tender by the tea planting and processing company, Eastern Highlands Plantation Limited to construct a bridge and gravel road from their plant.This was revealed last Wednesday during a tour of the Eastern Highlands Plantation Limited operations by the Manicaland Joint Operations Committee.Manica Post reported that the idea to set up a border post in Mutasa was mooted in 2013 after the realisation that the route was being actively used by border jumpers to cross to either countries through a makeshift foot bridge.The route is shorter to Chimoio in Mozambique through the Katandika Chimoio link road which is just 22 kilometres away from Mutasa's Katiyo Rural Centre after crossing Rwera River.Eastern Highlands Plantations Limited general manager, Pratap Pareekh, said by creating a border post in Mutasa the company would stand to benefit as it would cut nearly 100 kilometres of road travel expenses it incurs using the Mutare-Biera route to export its tea."We stand to cut a lot of costs on transport expenses through the establishment of the Mutasa Border Post without mentioning the potential economic boom Mutasa District stands to benefit from the border post. As Eastern Highlands, we will cut 100km by using the Katandika Chimoio link route and the terrain is better than the mountainous terrain our trucks have to endure by the use of the Mutasa-Mutare enroute to Beira," said Pareekh.EHPL said it was prepared to construct a modern reinforced concrete deck bridge across Rwere River and a gravel road from their plant through Katiyo Estate.Pareekh also added that the opening of the border post would see an increase in tourist arrivals in Zimbabwe given that Gorongoza National Park in Mozambique was nearer through the route, rather than driving from Beira."This creates opportunities for small chartered flights to fly to Mutasa where there is an airstrip that need upgrading. Even local travel agents will stand to benefit from the Mutasa Border Post route. The hospitality sector in the Eastern Highlands will get a tourist arrival boom, so the business opportunities are many for the district and province at large," said Pareekh.Cde Chimene was quick to commend the initiative saying it was part of Government's public and private partnership agenda enshrined in the economic turnaround blueprint, Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation.Cde Chimene, however, expressed concern over bureaucratic delays from Central Government on the proposal."I have since written to Government on the matter, but I am still to get a response. My concern is with you office bearers in Government (civil servants) as you tend to sit on matters after we (politicians) hand them over to you. I am, however, confident this matter will be given the necessary attention given its potential to develop Mutasa District, which is a district with so much economic substance," said Cde Chimene.She said the project would be a one-stop-border concept to blend with the modern times.After being asked on the threats paused by Mozambican Renamo rebels, Cde Chimene said Zimbabwe would not be stopped from implementing pivotal developmental projects because of foreign rebel threats.Manicaland JOC chairman and Officer Commanding Manicaland Police, Senior Assistant Commissioner Isaac Tayengwa, said deployments had been made along the border to monitor activities happening there following alerts of Renamo activities in Burma Valley
Director of Channel Sales, Drew Ngo (right)

Since the 1990s, GigeNET has been a reliable host to many. Specializing in high-end hosting and co-location solutions. GigeNET has managed to create a base for many successful internet businesses. Their headquarters is located just outside of Chicago, where they own and operate a 17,000 square foot datacenter. They also provide a wide array of services at their expanded LA location.

GigeNET sent their CEO, President, and Director of Channel Sales out to Las Vegas to represent the company and (to learn more about topics driving the industry to share with their partners) about the advancements and opportunities by leveraging channel partners.

The GigeNET team focused their time on meeting new people in the industry, talked strategy, and discovered services and tools that could enhance their current channel partner program.

The Channel Partners events never fails to amaze me. It gets better and better every year with new partners and suppliers at every turn. The Keynote and education breakouts with the industry leaders are always a plus for inspiration. Catching up with new and existing partners and advancing strategic relationships the Master Agents is what the expo is all about. Everyone here brings something to the table. And yes  there was even an Elvis sighting. - Drew Ngo, Director of Channel Sales

The channel partner conference in Las Vegas is a meeting place for the tech services community. The industry is discussed by its leader, trailblazers, service providers, MSPs, and more. This year GigeNET was among thousands of guests to bring new topics and learn more about the industry.

GigeNET set a goal to learn as much as they can about how to better serve their partners as well as passing along information that they have learn through their experiences in creating a successful channel partner program.

GigeNET is a full-service, managed hosting provider offering dedicated, cloud, hybrid, and colocation hosting solutions, as well as state-of-the-art DDoS protection. GigeNET is headquartered just outside of Chicago, Illinois where it owns and operates a 17,000 sq. ft. enterprise-class private datacenter that allows GigeNET to offer clients high performance with excellent security at affordable prices. GigeNET also offers their wide range of services in their Los Angeles, CA and Washington, D.C. datacenters. Visit http://www.gigenet.com to learn more.
An unprecedented commemorative gift of a hardbound book, feature documentary, and interactive eBook will be presented to all of Utahs 47,000 Vietnam Veterans during the peak 50th Commemoration years of 2016-2017 in recognition of their service, duty, and sacrifice. The first-edition commemorative gift will also be presented to all members of the United States Congress and the White House.

The commemorative gift includes:



A 160-page hardbound book, A Time to Honor: Stories of Service, Duty, and Sacrifice. The book is an original collection of stories from all states and Services, mostly discovered in the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. The managing editor is Colonel (ret) Ray Bluhm, author of A Chronology of the Vietnam War (through the Army Historical Foundation). The Foreword section of the book includes:

Message from the president of the United States

Message from Governor Gary Herbert

Message from Gary Harter, Executive Director, Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs

A feature documentary on DVD, The Journey Home. The film was co-produced with GoFilms (Saints and Soldiers, The Saratov Approach, Freetown) and shot on location in Northern California, Colorado, New York, New Jersey, and Washington, D.C. It is a story of duty, sacrifice, heartbreak, love of country, forgiveness, and healing.

Both the book and documentary are free gifts to Utahs Vietnam veterans. For more information about these gifts as well as ceremonies taking place throughout the state in 2016, please visit vietnam50gift.com (the website goes live on March 29) and click on Utah on the interactive map. If you are a Vietnam veteran and are unable to attend any of the events, please call 801-326-2372 or email veterans(at)utah(dot)gov and these gifts will be delivered to your home by a Questar volunteer or other partner.

The invitation-only premiere of the documentary The Journey Home will be held March 31, 4 p.m., at the Megaplex Jordan Commons theater in Sandy. For media access, please contact Rebecca Thomas: info(at)remembermyservice(dot)com . See below for additional public events.

The giftpresented by the State of Utahwill be distributed at events throughout the state during 2016 (schedule development is in progress). What cannot be forgotten is the sacrifice of those who bravely served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War, notes Gary Harter, Executive Director of the Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs. On behalf of the state, we are eager to recognize every single Vietnam Veteran within our state borders. Throughout the year, we will host free events and present this gift as an opportunity for us to simply say how grateful we are they were willing to answer the call of duty, and we are profoundly mindful of the great sacrifices that were made during that long and tragic time.

As Utah State President of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Dennis Howland knows firsthand the impact this gift will have on Utahs Vietnam Veterans. From my view as a Vietnam Combat Marine, this documentary and book presented to all Vietnam Veterans across Utah is a gift of honor and understanding, he explains. Its been a long, lonely, and tough journey for a lot of Vietnam vets. The words thank you are something that took 45 years or better for some of us to hear.

The State of Utah, Miller Family Philanthropy, Merit Medical, and Questar Corporation sponsored this gift. Our greatest regret as a state may be the missed opportunities to honor Utahs returning veterans from Vietnam five decades ago, says Gail Miller, co-founder of the Larry H. and Gail Miller Family Foundation and a passionate supporter of veterans. Those brave men and women risked their lives doing what their country asked them to do. The war was not their fault, but they were treated terribly when they came home.

The Vietnam War Veteran is a part of all our communities, notes Fred Lampropoulos, CEO of Merit Medical Systems in Salt Lake City. These vets are loyal workers, entrepreneurs, and employers. They raise families, build businesses, and lead by example. They are a part of us. With the Vietnam War now 50 years behind us, it is time to look back with appreciation for our own Utah veterans from this conflict. We recognize you for your efforts, your service, and your sacrifices during that time until now.

Ron Jibson, CEO of Questar Corporation, explains why he immediately decided to support the project: Many who served in Vietnam paid the ultimate price for their fellow citizens. Others suffered long-term effects and illnesses they still struggle with today. Unlike troops of other wars, Vietnam Veterans were not given the accolades they rightfully deserved. All veterans should be commended for serving our country with valor.

Utah is the first state to provide the gift, produced by Remember My Service (RMS) Productions in partnership with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Naval Historical Foundation, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, in collaboration with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project. The initial production of the book and documentary was fully funded by Founding Partners/Executive Producers Al & Kathleen Gardner and Joe & Kathleen Sorenson.

RMS is currently working with other states for similar editions. This unprecedented gift will provide a national and state-specific strategic communications platform to express gratitude and respect to Vietnam Veterans in a format they can easily share with children and grandchildren, explains RMS President/Executive Producer Sharlene Hawkes. This is an heirloom gift that families will preserve and cherish as it encourages dialogue and understanding about their loved ones service during Vietnam.

Calendar of Events for Vietnam Veterans and the Public (Hosted by Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs)

March 29 2:00 PM Capitol Rotunda Ceremony

March 29 6:30 PM Layton VFW Post 8307 Dinner

March 30 6:00 PM Utah County Historic Court House, Provo Ceremony

April 2 6:00 PM Davis Central Jr. High School Ceremony

April 9 6:00 PM VFW Post 1481 Ogden Ceremony
Charleston Real Estate Sales Agent David Bouffard. His architectural background, community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit align well with our companys principles, and we look forward to having him as part of the team

The Cassina Group is proud to announce the addition of Real Estate Sales Agent David Bouffard.

A native Vermonter, David has called Charleston home for over 10 years. He has spent the past 20 years practicing architecture in Washington DC, New York City, London and most recently Charleston, where he was employed by Liollio Architecture. He earned a Masters in Architecture from Washington University in St. Louis and a BA from Boston College. He is also co-owner of Sugar Bakeshop, a downtown bakery on Cannon Street, which has received both regional and national attention. He is involved with numerous local fundraising and charitable efforts supporting the arts, preservation and greenspace initiatives.

We are thrilled to have David join The Cassina Group, said Owen Tyler, Managing Broker. His architectural background, community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit align well with our companys principles, and we look forward to having him as part of the team.

The Cassina Group is known as Charlestons innovation-driven real estate firm, with a proven reputation for delivering stronger results though leading-edge technology and building lasting relationships. For more information on David Bouffard or The Cassina Group, please visit http://www.TheCassinaGroup.com.

About The Cassina Group

The Cassina Group is a boutique real estate brokerage with offices in Mount Pleasant, SC and Charleston, SC. Recent awards include top honors from Charleston Magazine, Inc. 5000 and SC Biz News. For more information, visit http://www.TheCassinaGroup.com or call 843.628.0008.
We view customer success as a revenue center, not a cost center. Lauren is leader who has helped drive our growth from zero to 20,000 customers with a focus on customer success, without sales reps or VC funding.

Today WriterAccess, the cloud-based platform connecting thousands of US-based writers, translators, editors and content strategists with agencies, SMBs, and Fortune 500 companies, announced that its Customer Success Manager Lauren Cowher has been honored with the Hero Award for excellence in customer success.

Most companies view customer success as a cost center, not a revenue center inspired by great service. Lauren is leader who has helped drive our growth from zero to 20,000 customers with a complete focus on customer success, without sales reps or VC funding, said WriterAccess Founder and CEO Byron White. By aligning individual team member goals with department goals and company goals, Lauren ensures that our customers get the most value from our platform.

"The best honor of all is knowing that this was born of the team's collective nomination. At WriterAccess, we are supported and challenged daily in the quest to deliver the best possible experience, to our customers, our talent and each other, said Lauren Cowher, Customer Success Manager.

Customer success is an innovative approach that continues to grow in importance as recurring revenue models become more prevalent. Companies that rely on recurring revenue must focus on ensuring that their customers find real value in their products in order to drive renewals and growth. The award celebrates the individuals and teams who are implementing innovative and meaningful customer engagement strategies.

The Award was presented Tuesday at the Customer Success Summit, a two-day event that brings together over 1,000 CEOs, industry analysts, venture capitalists, customer success executives and professionals from some of the world's best companies such as HP, Autodesk, New Relic, LinkedIn, Adobe, Bitly, Optimizely and more who all have one mission: exploring how to put the customer first. Previous winners of the Hero Award include leaders at LinkedIn, Influitive, WalkMe, Kapta, Unbounce, Globoforce, Central Desktop, SendGrid, Freshdesk and Entelo. To learn more about the Customer Hero Awards, visit http://customersuccessheroes.com/.

About WriterAccess

Founded in 2010, WriterAccess is a free cloud-based platform that provides access to a workforce of 14,000 talented, screened, and US-based writers, editors, translators and content strategists. WriterAccess is listed on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in the US (2014, 2015).
OneLogin, the identity management provider bringing speed and integrity to the modern enterprise, today was named one of the Fast 50 privately held Internet security, networking, and storage companies by JMP Securities LLC, a full-service investment bank that provides equity research, institutional brokerage and investment banking services to growth companies and their investors.

Were honored to be recognized by JMP Securities for our product innovations and the rapid market adoption of our leading Identity and Access Management solutions, said Thomas Pedersen, CEO and Co-founder, OneLogin. OneLogin is uniquely positioned to help both on-premise companies migrate to the cloud, as well as assist modern, born-in-the-cloud organizations achieve new levels of security and operational excellence.

In their report, The Fast 50: The Hottest Privately Held Internet Security, Networking and Storage Companies, JMP Securities cited ...we believe our selected Fast 50 companies are developing foundations built on strong operational prowess and prudent cost management. With a strong operational foundation and sustainable technological differentiation, our Fast 50 companies are aggressively taking share from the technology titans that dominate IT markets but lack the vision, agility, or perseverance to adapt to current market trends.

As evidenced by the rapid migration toward cloud computing, we believe enterprises are adopting new technologies at a more rapid pace than ever before. In our view, the digitization of business has increased the need for enterprises to purchase best-of-breed infrastructure solutions, rather than good-enough offerings from incumbent vendors. Accordingly, we feel our Fast 50 companies are well positioned to dominate global markets as enterprise increasingly opt for next-generation, best-of-breed solutions.

In addition to being recognized on the the JMP Securities LLC Fast 50 list, OneLogin was recently ranked 28th on Deloittes Technology Fast 500, a ranking of the 500 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences and energy tech companies in North America. The company was also recently honored with a Glassdoor Employees Choice Award, recognizing the Best Places to Work in 2016.

Resources

Webinar: Integrated Cloud Security

Whitepaper: How to Get the Most from Your IAM Investment

Case Study: Farrer & Company: Enabling an Independent Law Firm with a Rich History of Innovation to Pivot with Ease

Blog: Unparalleled Data Privacy for European Companies

Videos

About OneLogin, Inc.

OneLogin brings speed and integrity to the modern enterprise with an award-winning SSO and identity management platform. Our portfolio of solutions secure connections across all users, all devices, and every application, helping enterprises drive new levels of business integrity and operational velocity across their entire app portfolios. The choice for innovators of all sizes such as Conde Nast, Pinterest and Steelcase, OneLogin manages and secures millions of identities around the globe. We are headquartered in San Francisco, California. For more information, visit http://www.onelogin.com.
Diane Krasner, PhD, RN, CWCN, CWS, MAPWCA, FAAN Im passionate about wound care, but I recognize the increasing need to attract a new generation of students to our specialty early in their nursing careers.

More than 3,000 attendees gathering for the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) Spring Conference from March 30April 3, 2016 in Orlando, FL will have the opportunity to learn about the Why Wound Care? (WWC?) initiative through a series of three presentations delivered by Diane L. Krasner, PhD, RN, CWCN, CWS, MAPWCA, FAAN, a wound care nurse and leading expert in the field.

Dr. Krasner will deliver her Jump Start Your Career as a Wound Care Nurse, presentation to nursing students on April 2 and April 3. She will address nursing school faculty later on April 3 with a talk entitled Filling the Need for Specialized Wound Care Nurses."

Dr. Krasner will serve as clinical co-chairperson for the WWC? initiative along with Lia van Rijswijk, MSN, RN, CWN.

As a wound care specialized nurse, consultant and expert witness for over 30 years, I was honored to be selected as clinical co-chairperson for the WWC? initiative, said Dr. Krasner. Im passionate about wound care, but I recognize the increasing need to attract a new generation of students to our specialty early in their nursing careers. To achieve this goal, were providing best-in-class, complimentary educational resources on the WWC? website to help students interested in pursuing a fulfilling career as a wound care specialized nurse.

Launched in 2015 by HMP Communications Holdings, LLC, the Why Wound Care? campaign was created to educate nursing students about the growing need for  and critical importance of  specialized wound care nurses, and to encourage nursing graduates to pursue additional training to become wound care certified.

The field of nursing is at a critical juncture. An aging U.S. population plus a wave of experienced nurses entering retirement have combined to create a significant shortage. That shortage is expected to reach more than 800,000 nurses by the year 2020, creating a high demand for those nurses who specialize in wound care. According to the Institute of Medicine 2011 report, The Future of Nursing, it is imperative that more nurses receive a solid education in how to manage complex conditions, coordinate care with multiple health professionals, and pursue additional education opportunities in order to meet future healthcare needs.(1)

The current shortage of specialized wound care nurses greatly increases the risk of substandard care for patients who are at risk for the development of wounds or wound-related complications. Currently, chronic wounds (including pressure ulcers, foot ulcers in people with diabetes mellitus, and venous insufficiency ulcers) affect approximately 6.5 million Americans annually. This number is expected to rise as the population ages and the prevalence of diabetes and obesity increases.(2)

The aim of the Why Wound Care campaign focuses on increasing awareness and delivering education. The campaign seeks to collaborate with nursing programs at universities throughout the country, elevate visibility for the specialty and promote careers in wound care. Why Wound Care? will provide nursing faculty with educational resources for integrating wound prevention and care into nursing curricula. The Why Wound Care? website gives nursing students, recent graduates, and nursing faculty access to a wealth of information and resources, including free instructional courses and discounts on continuing education events.

To learn more about Why Wound Care?, visit whywoundcare.com or follow the campaign on Facebook: facebook.com/whywoundcare, or Instagram and Twitter: @WhyWoundCare, with the hashtag, #howweroll.

About the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA)

With a membership of 60,000 nationwide, the NSNA is the largest student nursing organization in the U.S. and mentors the professional development of future registered nurses and facilitates their entrance into the profession by providing educational resources, leadership opportunities, and career guidance.

About HMP Communications Holdings, LLC

HMP Communications Holdings, LLC (HMP), a collaborative formed by HMP Communications, LLC and the North American Center for Continuing Medical Education, LLC (NACCME), is a multi-channel leader in healthcare content and education, with a mission to improve patent care. The company produces clinically relevant, evidence-based journals, events and accredited, continuing education for the healthcare community, across a range of therapeutic areas. Its brands include Consultant, the monthly, award-winning journal relied upon by primary care practitioners and the Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC), the largest wound care meeting in the world. For more information, visit hmpholdings.com.

References:

1. IOM (Institute of Medicine). 2011. The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press

2. Sen CK, Gordillo GM, Roy S, et al. Human skin wounds: a major and snowballing threat to public health and the economy. Wound Repair and Regeneration. 2009;17(6):763-771.
Having access to accurate and compassionate health care information around sexual health should not just be a privilege.  Jackie Rednour-Bruckman Executive VP Good Vibrations

Trans Rights, Sexual Health, and Healthcare will be the focus in Chicago at CatalystCon Midwest April 1st to April 3rd where Jackie Rednour-Bruckman, Executive Vice President of Good Vibrations will host the Closing Keynote Plenary Address at CatalystCon Midwest (April 1st  April 3rd) with very special guest, Bryanna A. Jenkins- the Executive Director and Founder of Trans Alliance in Baltimore, MD.

Jenkins has received national attention and accolades for her Trans Uprising activist events featured in the New York Times, The Advocate, and other news outlets and publications.CatalystCon Midwest takes place April 1st to April 3rd at the OHare Hyatt in Chicago. This is the first time CatalystCon comes to Chicago and it promises to be one of the best CatalystCons ever. Good Vibrations is proud to be involved with this stellar sexuality conference.

Good Vibrations Staff Sexologist Carol Queen will also moderate the Opening Keynote Plenary Address and present on various panels including a session on The Sex & Pleasure Book written by Carol Queen PhD with Shar Rednour. Queen will also be presenting on Slut Shaming and Building Bridges between Sex Positive Retailers and Educators.

Good Vibrations Education Manager, Andy Duran will be on a panel with Jackie Rednour-Bruckman called Queer and Trans Sexual Health. Body and Sex Positivity can be tricky landscapes to navigate and especially intense for Queer and Trans Identified folks. Having access to accurate and compassionate health care information around sexual health should not just be a privilege.  Jackie Rednour-Bruckman who will also be on a fun and informative panel called Sex Positive Parenting.

You can check out the list of great presenters at catalystcon.com. Follow Good Vibrations on Twitter at @GoodVibesToys and see our tweets with the hashtag #ccon to get more detail on the compelling and interesting discussions generated by panels, presenters, and attendees.

About Good Vibrations

Good Vibrations is the premier retailer trusted for almost four decades to provide high quality products, education, and information that promotes sexual health, pleasure, and empowerment. We invented the concept of the clean, well-lighted vibrator store and were proud to provide a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where customers can shop for sex toys, books, movies, and attend workshops. Visit online at, goodvibes.com, or visit one of our eight retail stores in SF, Berkeley, Oakland, Palo Alto CA, or Brookline MA. Please follow us on Twitter @GoodVibesToys

About CatalystCon

CatalystCon is a conference created to inspire exceptional conversations about sexuality. It is about reaching out and stimulating those who attend to create those important conversations in their own communities, changing how we as a society talk and treat sexuality. It is about stimulating the activist that is within all of us and sparking transformation in the way our friends, neighbors, children and even politicians discuss one of the most important aspects of humanity.
By pairing the ElevenOS platform with our best-in-class fibre-optic network, were helping our hospitality customers transform guest Internet access from a basic amenity into a powerful competitive differentiator.

Eleven, the leading provider of cloud-based guest Internet management software, officially unveiled their integration with Cisco Meraki cloud networking today.

The joint Eleven-Meraki solution democratizes network functionality that used to be accessible only by enterprise-level infrastructure with complex architectures. ElevenOS complements the Meraki cloud networking feature set with value-added services that engage guests and deliver a consistently high-performance Internet experience. Elevens enhanced portal can be customized to ensure brand consistency and engage guests by promoting onsite or local services to drive incremental revenue and future bookings.

Central authentication gives businesses the ability to identify people and allow them onto their network via a remote captive portal and a central user database. Once connected, the Eleven platform facilitates creating tiered Internet packages, multiple billing options, personalized services, and more. The Meraki integration opens up the power of the ElevenOS platform to more businesses looking for ways to manage and monetize the guest Internet experience.

Tiered Internet service plans can be created via ElevenOS to support specific guest needs, from web and email browsing to streaming movies and videoconferencing. Since Meraki does not require costly gateway or controller hardware on-site, the integrated solution is more streamlined, making it simpler for service provider partners to deliver this sophisticated platform to hospitality and other verticals.

Committed to building a truly open platform, ElevenOS is both hardware agnostic and service provider neutral to work with solutions businesses are already using. With its flexible architecture, hotel network integrations and partnerships with leading certified network service providers, the ElevenOS platform enables businesses of all shapes and sizes to easily manage and optimize the guest Internet experience.

Canadas fastest-growing telecommunications provider, TELUS, recently chose the ElevenOS plug-and-play integration with Cisco Meraki networks to deliver centralized guest authentication and Wi-Fi management via the cloud to expand its offering to hospitality-industry customers.

"Hotel guests are viewing fast and reliable Wi-Fi as one of the most important hotel amenities and leading hoteliers are aiming to deliver the optimal guest experience through the consistent delivery of this capability," said David Kozicz, VP Product Development & Product Marketing, TELUS. By pairing the ElevenOS platform with our best-in-class fibre-optic network, were helping our hospitality customers transform guest Internet access from a basic amenity into a powerful competitive differentiator.

ABOUT ELEVEN

Eleven is the foundation of the high-performance Internet experience demanded by todays connected guest generation. Whether they are checking email on their phone from the lobby, finishing a presentation in the business center, or streaming a movie in their room after a long day  Eleven helps hotels keep guests seamlessly connected with core features like authentication, bandwidth optimization, and portal management. Flexible architecture and open APIs allow the ElevenOS platform to plug into existing infrastructure and allow for endless possibilities to drive guest engagement and revenue. Founded in 2001, Eleven has grown into a powerful cloud-based guest Internet management platform, helping millions of guests stay connected each month at thousands of hotels, cruise ships and other guest-service venues. For more information, visit http://www.elevenwireless.com.
ESO Solutions, Inc., a leading provider of healthcare software and interoperability solutions, has hired Chris French as Director of Business Development for its ESO Health Data Exchange (HDE) product line.

In his new role, French will help lead the growth of ESO HDE in alignment with the companys vision for improving community health through data. His key responsibilities include expanding the ESO HDE customer base and building new business relationships to better support patient-centered care within the healthcare community.

Chris joins the ESO team at a significant time in the companys expansion within the pre-hospital and hospital markets, said Allen Johnson, Vice President of ESO Health Data Exchange. With Chris extensive experience in the healthcare technology industry, we are confident in his ability to establish the relationships necessary to promote overall product and company growth.

ESO Health Data Exchange, a NEMSIS 3 compliant product, is revolutionizing the healthcare industry by giving EMS agencies access to much-needed clinical outcome and billing data while providing hospitals with all pre-hospital data in any format they require. With ESO HDE, any EMS or hospital system that connects to the HDE platform can instantly collaborate with any other agency, hospital, or other part of a healthcare network.

Ive seen firsthand the benefit of data exchange between healthcare organizations, and Im inspired by ESOs overall mission of using pre-hospital and hospital data within the healthcare space to improve patient health, said French. Im pleased to join a forward-thinking company whose vision and efforts are expanding the boundaries of healthcare today.

French joins the ESO team after nine years with Cerner Corporation, the worlds largest publicly traded healthcare technology company. While at Cerner, he held management positions responsible for building and strengthening customer relationships, cultivating cross-company collaborations and building overall customer satisfaction.

About ESO Solutions

ESO Solutions, Inc., founded in 2004 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, is dedicated to improving community health through the power of data. Its healthcare, public safety and technology experts provide the most innovative software solutions on the market, including the industry-leading ESO Electronic Health Record (EHR) software, as well as the first-of-its-kind healthcare interoperability platform, ESO Health Data Exchange (HDE). For more information about ESO Solutions, visit http://www.esosolutions.com.
Zen meditation in memory 1 The great Chan master, His Holiness SuXi, has inedible high consciousness with his integrity, character, high moral code and ethics as well as his enlightenment presence in Chan disciples' conscious lives today.

Great Master SuXi's close disciple DeRu, along with his students of DeRu Shaolin Institute campuses across the southeast United States, meditated together in memory of the great master in echo with Master DeYang's event on March 17, 2016 (Feb. 9th, 2016 of the Chinese Lunar Calendar) which marks the ten year anniversary of the conscious spiritual transcendence of His Holiness, great spiritual leader, the last chief master monk of the elder generations of the Shaolin Temple, Venerable Shi SuXi.

Earlier in China on Beijing time, his top disciple DeYang of the Shaolin Temple in China hosted a memorial ceremony at the Shaolin Temple with hundreds of disciples and students. At the same time in other parts of the world, Chan (Zen) and KungFu students as well as Chan believers, practitioners, and highly honorable people around globe organized events to commemorate great master SuXi along with his Shaolin Chan philosophy that he practiced and represented for all his life.

From very humble beginnings and an incredibly challenging life arose the most respected Buddhist Holy monk and KungFu (Gong Fu) leading Master of this generation in the new millennium. The great Chan master, His Holiness SuXi, has indelible high consciousness with his integrity, character, high moral code, ethics as well as his enlightenment presence in Chan disciples' conscious lives today, expressed Shifu DeRu.

As history depicts, the Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Martial Arts of KungFu. So said great master SuXi to the current Abbot and to the world, " Shaolin is Zen in lieu of martial arts KungFu fists alone," before his transcendence 10 years ago.

His words, even more so, remind all people that Shaolin disciples' responsibility is to live, promote and teach the philosophy and way of Zen living. Striving to live with spirituality via Zen way of living is of all the more importance for Shaolin followers world wide.

KungFu is only an expression and vehicle to manifest Zen mind and consciousness; an ordinary human being is to seek happiness and health with high consciousness, character and integrity to improve livelihood and achieve a high level of ability and responsibility. Money is only a vehicle to carry life and enrich that purpose of life.

Lunar February 9, 2006, SuXi, known as one of the greatest masters of the Shaolin martial arts and as a Shaolin prodigy to become one of first elders of this generation, transcended with 82 years worth of worldly life and experience . His teachings and his legacy will be carried on by thousands sentient beings with boundless responsibility, especially like his top disciples DeYang and DeRu for generations to come.

As a believer said: "After a spring breeze blows, the whole earth is green; when the spring breeze blows through, the whole earth will be green, and the time of recovery for all things has come. The Shaolin Temple in the spring is the same; how will the tree flowers blossom, and with what fruit." That is the ultimate Dharma of Zen.
News / Local

by Tendai Gukutikwa

THE Mutare Civil Courts was left in roars of laughter after a Marange woman vowed that she would not give her husband his conjugal rights unless he divorced his new wife whom she termed a sex worker'.Manica Post reported that all this was revealed in court after Agnes Nyarota had appeared before Yeukai Chigodora praying for a protection order against her husband, Zebediah Gwizo, whom she claimed was violent towards her after he married a well-known sex worker as a second wife.Nyarota described her husband, who defaulted the court session as a reckless man who had married a sex worker instead of choosing from other non sex-working females from their church and her family."The woman that he married was a popular sex worker and it has become difficult for me to accept him into my bedroom. I will not give him his conjugal rights since I do not know what sexually transmitted infections I will contract from him."I have since asked him to go for HIV testing and he said handisi muriwo unotestwa kunzwikwa kuti une salt here. (I will not be tested as I am not relish that needs tasting)," she stated.Nyarota prayed that the court bar Gwizo from visiting her residence regardless of the fact that they were still a lawfully wedded couple."I vow in this court that I will never accept the sex worker as his second wife, never!," she exclaimed.She claimed that it would have been better for their marriage if he had married someone from their church or one of her single female relatives as she had many.Nyarota also alleged that if he had married anyone other than the sex worker, she would still be giving him his conjugal rights.The protection order was granted to Nyarota. However, Gwizo was not barred from visiting her as he is still her husband and has a right to stay there.
Rated 4 Kids Let's Parents Rate & Filter Inernet content Until now, there has been no practical way for parents to filter Internet content, to protect their kids from online predators or to effectively monitor their childrens online use.

San Diego-based Rated 4 Kids recently launched a campaign to raise $5.5 million in an effort to protect children from the dark side of the Internet: online pornography, cyber-bullying, violence, illegal drugs, and hate speech. Rated 4 Kids LLC is founded on the premise that parents should be in control of what their children see online, whether they access the Internet through an iPod, tablet, smartphone or smart TV. The company has created a cloud-based, crowd-authored rating system that enables parents to rate Internet content  including videos, pictures, social media and text  instantly sharing those ratings with other parents around the world.

The Internet has been with us for a generation, but in many ways, its still a Wild West of sorts, says Brady Chatfield, CEO of Rated 4 Kids. So-called parental controls software is an oxymoron, because the real control is in the hands of a database or computer algorithm that does not have human instincts or common sense. The Rated 4 Kids system is designed by parents, for parents, and allows each family to block content that is objectionable to them, based on their own judgment, culture and sensibilities.

Chatfield says he has spoken with countless parents who are frustrated by existing content-filtering systems, which often block too much or too little. Many existing systems are limited in terms of devices, operating systems, and software/hardware compatibility issues. By contrast, the Rated 4 Kids system works with a homes existing router  the gateway through which all Internet traffic is distributed to every Internet-enabled device in the home. In addition, Rated 4 Kids uses cloud-based software to filter content based on parental ratings. This patent-pending combination of hardware and software is what makes Rated 4 Kids unique, powerful and infinitely scalable, Chatfield says.

Until now, there has been no practical way for parents to filter Internet content, to protect their kids from online predators or to effectively monitor their childrens online use, says Chatfield. Hardware alone cant do it. Software alone cant do it. Algorithms and apps cant do it. What weve created is a way for parents to come together, using a cloud-based system that is integrated with hardware and software, to create a safer Internet for our children.

The company recently launched a campaign on Kickstarter to raise $5.5 million by May 17. Along with the Kickstarter promotion, the companys founders published a manifesto, urging parents to take back the Internet on behalf of children worldwide. The company hopes to raise awareness about online safety and has begun gathering signatures and campaign contributions in an effort to recruit thousands of beta testers, who will form the basis of the online community of content raters that will be needed to establish baseline ratings for millions of online videos, pictures and other files.

About Rated 4 Kids

Rated 4 Kids, a San Diego-based start-up, is building the worlds first intelligent, crowd-sourced platform to keep kids safe online. Weve launched a Kickstarter campaign so we can make this vision of the Internet a reality. Imagine a safe Internet, built by thousands of parents, for millions of children worldwide. For more information, please visit http://www.rated4kids.com/.
M-Vac System By implementing this new collection method, Richland County Sheriffs Department is being proactive in the growing field of forensic DNA and improving its overall capability to solve crimes.

Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott announced that the Richland County Sheriffs Department has adopted a new forensic DNA collection method that will help solve crimes. The Department is the first crime lab in South Carolina to acquire the new, wet-vacuum based forensic DNA collection method.

This new equipment has helped solve criminal investigations in a number of areas of the US that were otherwise stalled or had gone completely cold, States Sheriff Leon Lott. The cutting edge technology, called the M-Vac System, has been shown to collect significantly more DNA material when compared to traditional methods, often times enabling more DNA information to be generated. Richland County Sheriffs Department investigators and expert criminalists want to initially use the M-Vac on cold cases and violent crimes, but will utilize the M-Vac System wherever appropriate to help generate better DNA results to move a case forward.

Weve been researching this collection method for some time, but only got a first hand look at it recently and just started testing it this month, says Rachel Grant, DNA Technical Leader of the Richland County Forensic Laboratory. Now that we have validated the M-Vac System ourselves, we are totally comfortable adopting it into our DNA collection processes, and are eager to use it in actual case work samples; especially on the more challenging evidence where DNA collection is most difficult. We are confident this new system will help our agency get DNA results where they may not have been achievable before, and that will be a good investment for our community.

By implementing this new collection method, Richland County Sheriffs Department is being proactive in the growing field of forensic DNA and improving its overall capability to solve crimes. Along with other lab technologies and training the Richland County Sheriffs Department has positioned itself as one of the most capable labs in the country, able to offer a distinctive service that is not currently available in the surrounding area. Last year the M-Vac was instrumental in helping a previously unsolved murder case in Salt Lake City. That case and trial, combined with the data from agencies like the Philadelphia Police Department and research results from Boston University and University of California Davis, demonstrates the strength of the system.

The bottom line is the M-Vac System helps investigators solve more crime, states Jared Bradley, President of M-Vac Systems. The Richland County Sheriff Department is a large agency with a significant population and responsibility, so solving cases as quickly and efficiently as possible is critical. We are excited to partner with the Sheriffs Department and applaud their willingness to lean forward in adopting new technologies such as the M-Vac. In the last year the M-Vac has produced DNA profiles from bricks, cement, rocks and all kinds of fabrics even after the other methods had failed, so we are confident the Richland County Sheriffs Department will get similar results. Were also beyond impressed with how quickly they have moved in validating and employing their system. What has taken other labs years to accomplish RCSD has done in less than a month. The Department and the community should be proud of that.

This is another example of how the Richland County Sheriffs Department lab prides itself on being among the first in the nation to use cutting edge technology to help solve crimes, States Sheriff Lott. This is important to not only identify and bring those responsible to justice, but it helps to bring closure to those families involved.

Contacts:

Lt. Curtis Wilson

Public Information Officer

803-576-1429

cuwilson(at)rcsd(dot)net
"The integration of the Denodo Platform 6.0 with the HPE Vertica Analytics Platform will bring faster data analytics to our mutual customers," Chris Selland, VP Business Development, Big Data Platform at Hewlett Packard Enterprise.

WHAT:

The Fast Data Strategy Summit is a complimentary,  day virtual event designed to help attendees understand how to create a Fast Data Strategy to achieve rapid time-to-value in their BI, big data, and cloud projects. A Fast Data Strategy is a disciplined approach to the use of agile, real-time, self-service data technologies, such as data virtualization, to deliver data quickly to business users to effect faster outcomes.

For further information about the conference, please visit http://www.fastdatastrategy.com

Denodo will be showcasing its new 6.0 version of the Denodo Platform, an award-winning data virtualization software. Denodo Platform 6.0 accelerates fast data strategy with breakthrough performance in big data, logical data warehouse, and operational scenarios; facilitates solution adoption with data virtualization in the cloud; and expedites the use of data by business users with self-service data discovery and search.

WHY:

According to December 16, 2015 Forrester Report Create A Road Map For A Real-Time, Agile, Self-Service Data Platform, Data bottlenecks create business bottlenecks. Business stakeholders at the executive and line-of-business levels need data faster to keep up with customers, competitors, and partners. In this comprehensive event, attendees can choose from over 20 sessions ranging from customer case studies, educational tracks on data virtualization, and technical deep-dives filled with presentations, panels, and demos.

Beginning with a keynote from featured speaker Noel Yuhanna, Principal Research Analyst, Forrester Research titled, Accelerating Fast Data Strategy with Data Virtualization, participants will learn practical knowledge about embedding fast data strategy within their IT projects. They will also hear customer case studies from Autodesk, Logitech, CIT, Guardian Life Insurance, DrillingInfo, and Zurich Insurance about how to become a friend of the business by providing faster insights and enabling rapid decision-making.

Fast Data Strategy Virtual Summit is supported by leading system integrator and technology partners such as Affecto, HCL, Hortonworks, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Infosys, and Kadenza.

Our mutual customers are global organizations that are successfully using data virtualization to solve critical business problems," said Petri Ronkko, Sales Executive, Affecto Finland Oy. "Denodo Platform 6.0s latest capabilities will enable us to provide a better customer experience and meet our customers' demand to deliver deeper insight, faster."

"With Denodo Platform 6.0, business users can quickly gain insight into their data and improve business user productivity," said Vineet Talwar, Global Strategic Alliances at HCL. "We look forward to bringing these benefits to our joint customers and helping them to obtain more value, faster.

Denodo Platform 6.0s specific big data capabilities will enable broader Hadoop use cases such as data warehouse offloading, IoT integration, and SQLization of Hadoop," said Matt Morgan, VP of Product and Alliance Marketing at Hortonworks. "Many of our mutual customers are successfully using data virtualization with Hadoop realizing tangible business benefits."

"The integration of the Denodo Platform 6.0 with the HPE Vertica Analytics Platform will bring faster data analytics to our mutual customers," said Chris Selland, VP Business Development, Big Data Platform at Hewlett Packard Enterprise. "Denodo's Dynamic Query Optimizer takes into account critical characteristics of big data sources such as the number of processing units and partitions and provides connectivity to HPE Vertica as well as a very broad array of big data sources."

Denodo Platform is an award-winning data virtualization product that pushes the envelope with its new version 6.0 with breakthrough performance in big data, logical data warehouse, operational scenarios, and self-service data discovery and search capabilities, said Satish HC , Senior Vice President and Head of Data Analytics Service Line at Infosys. As a Denodo partner, we are looking forward to implementing these capabilities for our mutual customers and accelerating their fast data strategy.

"Denodo Platform 6.0 used as a logical data warehouse demonstrates fast performance benchmark results that are similar to that of a physical data warehouse," said Jeroen Blankendaal, CEO, Kadenza. "This means organizations can benefit from lower cost and faster data delivery by using a logical data warehouse across sources instead of having to integrate all the disparate data into a physical data warehouse."

WHEN:

The Worldwide Fast Data Strategy Conference will take place at the following dates and times:



AMERICAS - March 30, 2016 / 9am to 12pm PT REGISTER

EMEA & APAC- March 31, 2016 / 9am to 12pm BST / 10am to 1pm CET REGISTER

Follow Denodo at http://twitter.com/denodo.

Tweet about the event - News: @Denodo Promotes Benefits of #DataVirtualization & #FastDataStrategy at Virtual Event on Mar 30. Register: http://www.fastdatastrategy.com.

About Denodo

Denodo is the leader in data virtualization providing agile, high performance data integration and data abstraction across the broadest range of enterprise, cloud, big data and unstructured data sources, and real-time data services at half the cost of traditional approaches. Denodos customers across every major industry have gained significant business agility and ROI by enabling faster and easier access to unified business information needs for agile BI, big data analytics, web and cloud integration, single-view applications, and enterprise data services. Denodo is well-funded, profitable and privately held. For more information, visit http://www.denodo.com or call +1 877 556 2531 / +44 (0) 20 7869 8053.
Scott Pelley, anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News, is the 2016 recipient of the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism.

Thirty-five years ago this month, Walter Cronkite signed off for the final time as anchor of the CBS Evening News. Today, Arizona State University announced that distinguished and award-winning journalist Scott Pelley, who now sits in Cronkites former anchor chair, will be the 2016 recipient of the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism.

Pelley, anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News and a correspondent for 60 Minutes, will receive the 33rd Cronkite Award, given by ASUs Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at a ceremony Nov. 21 at the Sheraton Grand Phoenix hotel. He also will broadcast the CBS Evening News that day live from the Cronkite School on ASUs downtown Phoenix campus.

Walter became known as Uncle Walter to an admiring audience, but he was truly like an uncle to me, Pelley said. In our conversations, he pressed me to be honest with the audience, skeptical of conventional wisdom, and grateful for my family. His advice and his example are more urgent today than at any time. Im greatly humbled by this recognition from the Cronkite School because it comes in the name of a man I knew, admired and loved.

Pelley, who assumed the anchor desk in 2011, has led the CBS Evening News to new heights by growing its audience and winning journalisms most prestigious awards, including the George Foster Peabody Award, an Alfred I. duPont-Columbia Award, two George Polk Awards, five Emmys, five Edward R. Murrow Awards and a host of additional honors. He also serves as a full-time correspondent on 60 Minutes, where he has recently reported from Iraq on the front lines in the battle against ISIS; covered the Paris terrorist attacks; interviewed CIA Director John Brennan; and uncovered critical lapses in the U.S. security clearance process that millions of people must pass to work with Americas secrets.

CBS News, for many, is synonymous with Walter Cronkite. ASU and this award continue the best values of the Cronkite legacy, said CBS News President David Rhodes. We are so pleased that the journalism school recognizes the continuation of this important legacy through the impressive work Scott Pelley is doing for our audiences every day.

The CBS Evening News is built largely around the core values of excellence espoused by Walter Cronkite, said Steve Capus, executive producer of the CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley and executive editor of CBS News. Scott Pelley not only exemplifies what it means to be a member of this proud news organization, but is also an outstanding ambassador on behalf of our beloved profession. Were all proud of Scott, and Im sure Walter would be as well. He is most deserving of this great honor.

Cronkite School Dean and University Vice Provost Christopher Callahan said honoring Pelley is particularly appropriate this year. Cronkite would have been 100 years old this November.

No one today better represents the legacy of Walter Cronkite  and his values of accuracy, objectivity and integrity  than Scott Pelley, Callahan said. We are honored to have him at ASU and look forward to having him meet with the students, faculty, alumni and friends of Walters school.

Pelley has more than 40 years of journalism experience and has covered almost every major news story of the past quarter century. He has interviewed world leaders and top newsmakers, including Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke and Afghan President Hamid Karzai. He also conducted the only interview with one of the U.S. Navy SEALs who helped kill Osama bin Laden.

He joined CBS News in 1989 and reported on the Persian Gulf crisis, covering Iraqi missile attacks on Saudi Arabia. He later served as a Dallas correspondent and covered the Oklahoma City bombing and the trial of Timothy McVeigh. He also was among the first journalists to report from the World Trade Center site during the Sept. 11 attacks. In 2004, Pelley became a correspondent for 60 Minutes. His work on that program has won 29 Emmys, five Murrow Awards, three Peabody Awards, two duPont Awards, a Polk Award and a host of other honors.

Prior to joining CBS News, Pelley was a producer/reporter for television stations in Texas. He started his journalism career as a copyboy at the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal newspaper. Pelley was born in San Antonio and attended Texas Tech University. He is a member of the universitys alumni hall of fame and serves on the board of Texas Techs College of Media & Communication.

Other Cronkite Award recipients include TV news anchors Charlie Rose, Diane Sawyer and Robin Roberts; newspaper journalists Ben Bradlee, Helen Thomas and Bob Woodward; and media executives Katharine Graham, Al Neuharth and Bill Paley. Cronkite personally presented the award during its first quarter-century. The CBS News anchor died in 2009.

The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, named in Cronkites honor in 1984, prepares the next generation of journalists in both the time-honored fundamentals embraced by Cronkite and the multimedia skills necessary to thrive as journalists in the digital age.

Housed in a $71 million state-of-the-art media complex in downtown Phoenix, the school has been featured in The New York Times, The Times of London and USA Today as a leader in 21st century journalism education and innovation.

The Cronkite School is the home of Arizona PBS, which serves as a journalistic teaching hospital for hundreds of students who work under 15 full-time faculty at Cronkite News. The news organization includes a nightly television news broadcast on Arizona PBS, digital reporting bureaus in Phoenix, Washington and Los Angeles, business and borderlands reporting bureaus, an entrepreneurial digital innovation lab, a digital production bureau, a newsgathering and civic journalism bureau and the Carnegie-Knight News21 initiative.
The Global Entrepreneur Indicator, a bi-annual survey conducted by the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), revealed the latest economic findings from business owners in Connecticut and the world over. EOs February GEI  taken globally by 7,034 leading entrepreneurs  reveals the current state of 48 countries business landscapes, assessing current and projected economic health.

83.9% of EO Connecticut respondents reported a willingness to start a business in their current economic environment, with very similar sentiments (83.1%) coming from the neighboring Boston Chapter respondents.

More than half of Connecticut respondents predicted that the countrys economic outlook would stay the same (51.6%), while 25.8% predicted improvement and 22.6% predicted deterioration.

A snapshot of the Connecticut findings includes:

JOB CREATION



Connecticut entrepreneurs indicate an increase in full-time staffing levels: 51.6% past six months; 64.5% future six months

REVENUE



77.4% of Connecticut entrepreneurs reported an increase in business revenue over the last six months; 83.9% of Connecticut entrepreneurs predicted an increase in business revenue over the next six months

ACCESS TO CAPITAL



Connecticut respondents reported increased funding opportunities during the past six months: 71% stayed the same; 25.8% reported an increase and 3.2% reported a decrease

PROFIT OUTLOOK



Connecticut business owners are optimistic in capital surpluses in the next six months: 80.6% increase; 12.9% stay the same; 6.5% decrease

Methodology: More than 7,000 of 11,000+ business owners that comprise EOs membership responded to the survey with 31 respondents in Connecticut. Respondents represented 155 chapters from 48 countries. Participants were presented with 14 questions assessing current and projected economic health. During the survey period, February 1-29, 2016, responses were obtained by contacting members within each chapter to guide them to the survey materials. Reports were then issued to each of EOs chapters around the world, based on the responses collected from each chapters members.

The Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) Connecticut Chapter, founded in 1999, boasts a peer-to-peer network of 46 influential business leaders representing a wide range of industries such as financial services, technology, construction, food/beverage, healthcare, law, manufacturing, marketing/PR, real estate, and more.

Every Connecticut respondent to the survey is the founder of a business with at least $1 million in annual revenues, with average member revenues of $8.97 million. The average number of employees at Connecticut respondents companies is 34.

For more information, visit https://www.eonetwork.org/ and http://www.eoct.org/.

About the Entrepreneurs Organization

The Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) is a global, peer-to-peer network of more than 11,000 influential business leaders with 153 chapters in 48 countries. Founded in 1987, EO is the catalyst that enables leading entrepreneurs to learn and grow, leading to greater success in business and beyond. To learn more about the Connecticut Chapter, visit eoct.org.
Tampa Family Health Center will serve nearly 100,000 patients this year, and we are excited about this unique partnership with Florida Hospital Tampa

Tampa Family Health Centers (TFHC) is opening its newest health center facility at Florida Hospital Tampa. The opening of the 17th location will be marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting and remarks by U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D. Fla., other elected officials and chief executive officers from both facilities. The event is scheduled to be held at Florida Hospital Tampa, 3100 E. Fletcher Ave., Thursday, March 31, 2016, at 10 a.m.

TFHC is one of the largest not-for-profit ambulatory care providers in Hillsborough County. Florida Hospital Tampa is one of Tampas largest not-for-profit tertiary hospitals. The newly opened center will provide comprehensive health services including adult and pediatric medical care for acute and chronic illnesses.

Tampa Family Health Center will serve nearly 100,000 patients this year, and we are excited about this unique partnership with Florida Hospital Tampa and; more importantly are excited to be able to expand our reach and increase that access to members of our community when and where they need us, says TFHC CEO Charles R. Bottoms.

This latest location is a joint effort between TFHC and Florida Hospital Tampa. It is located at Florida Hospital Tampa and is operated and managed by TFHC. The center features approximately 9,000 square feet of space, including 10 examination rooms and a pharmacy, which is scheduled to open in July. At full operational capacity, the center will create 19 new positions.

One of the primary objectives of opening the new health center is to provide underserved patients in the community with a medical home  emphasizing patient-centered, comprehensive, team-based coordinated, accessible care focused on quality and safety and delivering the right level of care in the appropriate environment. Tampa Family Health Centers accepts private insurances, Medicaid and Medicare coverages and provides income-based discounts for uninsured patients.

Improving access to critical health care services available in our community is a top priority and we are honored to partner with Tampa Family Health and be in a position to provide the space needed for their new center, says Brian Adams, President and CEO, Florida Hospital Tampa.

Tampa Family Health Centers and Florida Hospital Tampa are leading the region in adopting a model that the health care industry considers best practice to collaborate in effort to find patients medical homes.

The addition of the new Tampa Family Health Center helps us to demonstrate this vitally important partnership model to provide the right level of care in the right setting, says Dr. Wenzel Tirheimer, Emergency Room Medical Director of Florida Hospital Tampa.

The address for the new center is 3100 E. Fletcher Avenue, Tampa 33613 (located onsite at Florida Hospital Tampa, off of the Fletcher Avenue entrance). The center will be opened Monday-Friday 8 a.m.  5 p.m.

About Tampa Family Health Centers

Tampa Family Health Centers (TFHC) is the second largest federally qualified health center in Florida. Since 1984, TFHC has been committed to its mission: to provide quality caring and accessible healthcare to a culturally diverse community. TFHC serves more than 93,000 patients per year, including 3,300 homeless residents, in 17 locations throughout Hillsborough County. No patient is ever turned away because of inability to pay. With nearly 600 team members, TFHC has a local economic impact of $65.6 million. Services include family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, womens health, optometry, podiatry, behavioral health, nutrition, family planning, enabling services, radiology, and insurance eligibility assistance. For more information visit TampaFamilyHC.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

About Florida Hospital Tampa

Florida Hospital Tampa is a not-for-profit 517-bed tertiary hospital specializing in cardiovascular medicine, neuroscience, orthopedics, womens services, pediatrics, oncology, endocrinology, bariatrics, wound healing, sleep medicine and general surgery including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures. Also located at Florida Hospital Tampa is the renowned Florida Hospital Pepin Heart Institute, a recognized leader in cardiovascular disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment and leading-edge research. Part of the Adventist Health System, Florida Hospital is a leading health network comprised of 22 hospitals throughout the state. For more information, visit http://www.FHTampa.org.
Air Camp students take a short course in flight training and fly a plane. Air Camp students travel to Daytons one-of-a-kind aviation sites from their home base at Wright State University, including curriculum created for the new wing at the National Museum of the United States Air Force.

For its seventh year, Air Camp is offering a unique aviation experience during its summer camps as well as expanding programming with an Air Camp experience for STEM teachers in the fall. Air Camp is designed to inspire middle school students to learn the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) behind aviation and aeronautics through immersed learning activities and allowing students to experience the thrill of piloting a plane.

In summer 2016, three camp sessions will offer engaging experiences as students travel to Daytons one-of-a-kind aviation sites from their home base at Wright State University, including curriculum created for the new fourth hangar addition at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Applications for the summer camps are now being accepted at http://www.AirCampUSA.com.

Air Camp is building on its six years of success to expand our reach to more students to pursue further education and careers in STEM subjects, says Vince Russo, who was newly elected as president of the Air Camp Board of Trustees on March 1, 2016. We look forward to offering more camp sessions to more age groups in the future.

Air Camp has developed an exciting, aviation-focused STEM curriculum and we are in discussions about the possibility of providing greater access to the Air Camp experience year-round to students throughout Ohio and nationwide in the future, says Shannon Coblentz, director of operations for Air Camp. We hope to develop new events in the coming year as well as expand the sharing of components of our curriculum with teachers so that they can bring key aspects of Air Camp to their students in the classroom. Coblentz was named the director of operations for Air Camp in January. She brings extensive experience in education for young learners, having been a teacher and a principal in Ohio for more than a decade.

Summer Sessions for Middle School Students: June 12-17, June 19-24, and July 17-22

During the week-long sessions, Air Camp students discover the exciting aviation resources of the Dayton region. The June sessions take place before and after the Vectren Dayton Air Show on June 18 and 19, featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, which students and their parents may choose to attend.

Air Camp activities include:



Observing flight operations at the Dayton International Airport

Touring behind the scenes at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the National Museum of the United States Air Force and meeting scientists at the Air Force Research Laboratory

-Taking a short course in flight training at Sinclair Community College

-Flying a drone and piloting a plane at the Dayton-Wright Brothers Airport

-Visiting Dayton History sites to see the origins of flight, including a Wright Brothers plane

-Viewing international flight patterns at the Boonshoft Museum

Students will be chosen for each session through a competitive application process. Applications are available online at http://www.AirCampUSA.com for students entering the seventh through ninth grades in the fall of 2016. A teacher recommendation is required and tuition is $995 per student, with a limited number of need-based scholarships available. The initial deadline for applications is April 30.

Second Annual Teachers Air Camp: September 30-October 2

For the second year, Air Camp will hold a weekend workshop for up to 30 Ohio educators who teach STEM subjects. Priority will be given to sixth through eighth grade teachers. The Air Camp summer curriculum has been redesigned for the classroom to make STEM subjects come alive while aligning with Ohio's Learning Standards. The objective is to allow teachers to share Air Camps instructional techniques and tools with thousands of students throughout Ohio and the nation.

About Air Camp

Hosted in the Dayton, Ohio region  the birthplace of aviation  Air Camp supports education in the science, technology, engineering and math of aviation and aeronautics, designed to inspire middle school students, through in-residence, week-long summer camps and educator workshops. Air Camp is a not-for-profit organization supported by donations from generous educational institutions, foundations, businesses and individuals. For further information, visit http://www.aircampusa.com or look for us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube.
Local youth to recreate Broadway's greatest moments on film in "Broadway Movie Musical." "We are looking for Bay Area youth who love to sing and dance to feature in our youth movie musical." - Director, John Bisceglie

Director, Producer, and Filmmaker John Bisceglie seeks local youth ages 8-21 to appear in "Broadway Movie Musical," a salute to the American musical. This dynamic movie musical celebrates musical theater in all its many forms, paying tribute to both the beloved classics that have come to define the medium, and todays revolutionary game-changers that are bringing new life to the art form.

Local youth will recreate Broadway's greatest moments on film in an original new movie beginning production this spring. Participants will record in a professional recording studio, work on a movie set with a film crew, then see themselves on the silver screen when "Broadway Movie Musical" premieres in selected Bay Area movie theaters in January 2017.

John Bisceglie added, "We are looking for Bay Area youth who love to sing and dance to feature in our youth movie musical. Seeing yourself on the screen in an actual movie theater is a very cool experience for actors of all ages, and we are excited to give local youth an opportunity to participate in this exciting film. This project offers a variety of singing, dancing and speaking roles for a wide range of ages, talent and levels of experience." The film will be shot and edited by professional filmmakers Nils and Mattie Myers of 152 West Productions in Gilroy, California.

Nils Myers, cofounder of 152 West with his partner Mattie, is looking forward to the collaboration. "It's really exciting to be doing a third film with John. For me it's a great creative opportunity, but for most kids it's a truly once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of something that's usually just dreamed about, which makes it more exciting and special for me. Mattie Myers adds, "We've seen John draw out amazing performances from his actors, and he's always pushing the envelope with the creative process of filmmaking. If you want to get into film and television, this is a great opportunity to hone your skills and build your reel.

The film will rehearse and be filmed in San Francisco, Morgan Hill, Gilroy and San Jose. Auditions will take place in May, and filming will start in early August. Cast members will appear in multiple solo, duet, group and ensemble numbers. No experience required, and all who audition will be accepted. The program consists of one rehearsal per week and will be offered in San Francisco, San Jose & Morgan Hill.

Since 1985, John Bisceglie has created, directed and choreographed hundreds of community, commercial, and professional productions featuring actors of all ages. Since 1991, he has created and founded three Bay Area performing arts groups in San Jose (SBCMT) Morgan Hill/Gilroy (GCMT) and San Francisco (SFCMT) producing original musical revues and scripted plays as well as feature films. His large scale productions have appeared at the Herbst Theater, Marines Memorial Theater, Pier 39 and Palace of Fine Arts Theater in San Francisco.

In 2012, John Bisceglie and his team wrote, directed, and produced an original youth movie musical "Gleeful" (a parody based on the popular TV series Glee,) that featured over one hundred local youth and played for ten weeks at the Cinelux Theatre in Morgan Hill. In 2013, John created and produced "ROAR!" a stylized 1920's black and white movie musical that played to sellout crowds in the historic Castro Theater in San Francisco.

Auditions for "Broadway Movie Musical," will take place in San Jose on Wednesday, May 18th; in San Francisco on Saturday, May 21st; and in Morgan Hill on Thursday, May 26th. For more information or to make your appointment to audition, please visit: http://www.broadwaymoviemusical.com
car covers image We know what its like to visit a website to place an order, only to discover a nightmare of a time locating the desired items.

CarAutoCovers, an online user-friendly portal designed to help customers find the exact car covers theyre searching for, has announced critical enhancements to its website, located at http://www.CarAutoCovers.com. The upgrades will speed up the page loading process, in turn helping visitors make a purchase faster and easier, while the inclusion of a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) ensures that all sales transactions are safe. Boasting a staff with years of experience in the industry, CarAutoCovers was founded in New York City just over a decade ago and is now headquartered in Anaheim, California with three warehouses throughout North America.

We know what its like to visit a website to place an order, only to discover a nightmare of a time locating the desired items, says a CarAutoCovers company spokesperson. With the new upgrades to CarAutoCovers.com, visitors can quickly and easily find the car cover theyre looking for while experiencing simple-to-navigate characteristics. Whats more, the inclusion of a Secure Sockets Layer platform  a respected computer networking protocol that manages server authentication, client authentication and encrypted communication between servers and clients (typically, a website)  virtually guarantees that secure data can be exchanged over our network. Translation: Theres no reason for our customers to feel their online purchase of car, suv, or truck covers, will be compromised.

According to the technicians responsible for implementing these new upgrades within CarAutoCovers website, a Secure Sockets Layer, as its name implies, provides a secure connection between websites and Internet browsers, allowing the safe transmission of private data online. Additionally, say the technicians who worked tirelessly on the CarAutoCovers website project, the SSL platform is utilized by millions of e-Business solutions to protect their customers and ensure online transactions remain confidential.

The system of encryption should be imbedded within all web pages that present visitors the chance to submit confidential data, including personal information, credit card details and passwords, adds a spokesperson for the team responsible for CarAutoCovers.coms upgrades. Web browsers can interact safely with secured sites if the sites certificate can be traced to a reputable Certified Authority, such as Comodo. We sat down with CarAutoCovers representatives, who quickly understood that unless the connection between clients  their Internet customers  and a web server is encrypted, any moderately-skilled hacker could easily intercept and read the traffic.

While the Internet has yielded new worldwide business opportunities for enterprises, to include online commerce, it has also attracted cybercriminals and fraud artists who seize any chance to steal consumer data such as credit card details or bank account numbers. With an SSL platform in place, CarAutoCovers has taken protection and trust to a whole new level, securing its website while increasing customer confidence and reaching the full online potential of the business.

CarAutoCovers' car covers website upgrade fully complements several convenient methods to search for the perfect car cover for every vehicle. The companys Price Match Guarantee and Easy Returns Policy reflects its representatives understanding that customers need to know they are being taken care of, and that they are getting the best deal possible on car, truck, and suv covers.

CarAutoCovers can be reached by calling (800) 288-5844. For more information visit http://www.CarAutoCovers.com or email info(at)CarAutoCovers(dot)com.
The book itself offers the public incredible life stories, business advice and legal insights delivered by leading law professionals in America

Stanley Law Offices and lawyer Joe Stanley announce the recent release of "A Cup of Coffee with 10 Leading Attorneys in the United States, coauthored by Stanley. All royalties of this book will be donated to the Will Play for Food Foundation, which works to end childhood hunger.

The book includes a sampling of stories, experiences and insights shared by attorneys with varied backgrounds and practices. Readers will delve into the dreams and motivations of various attorneys working in different legal niches such as business law, criminal defense, and estate planning. Stories include chronicles of taking large corporations to task for their actions and the turmoil that ensued from these undertakings.

Attorney Joe Stanley said, The book itself offers the public incredible life stories, business advice and legal insights delivered by leading law professionals in America. They share advice on how the client comes first and how providing high quality client services is important and can make a huge difference in peoples lives.

Every book sold will provide more than 210 meals for children in need in America through the Will Play for Food Foundation. This group is committed to ending childhood hunger through local community programs and through connections between individuals and celebrities.

For more information about Joe Stanley and the release of "A Cup of Coffee with 10 Leading Attorneys in the United States, interested parties are encouraged to visit http://www.stanleylawoffices.com or call 800-608-3333. People can also visit Stanley Law Offices in person at 215 Burnet Avenue, Syracuse, N.Y. 13203.

Stanley Law Offices, based in Syracuse, N.Y., has built a practice around the importance of educating the client. The purpose of this education is to empower clients to make effective decisions regarding their legal matters. With a team of professionals, Stanley Law Offices will research and investigate every detail of every case, working toward a positive resolution.
News / Local

by Lovemore Kadzura

A RUSAPE man who raped and impregnated his 16-year-old step daughter will languish in prison for the next 18 years after he was found guilty of the offence.Manica Post reported that Marevasei Marume (38) of Mahere Village, Mayo will, however, spend 15 years behind bars after Rusape regional magistrate, Livingstone Chipadza suspended three years on condition of good behaviour.Marume was denying the offence, saying the girl's biological father had influenced her to cook up the allegations since he was bitter that he had married his former wife.Rusape Area prosecutor, Tirivanhu Mutyasira, told the court that Marume raped the girl in full view of her three siblings. He added that when the girl's mother confronted him over the rape he thrashed her leading to her losing two teeth."On an unknown date, but during the month of July 2015 at around 7pm, the complainant was sent by her mother to sleep at the accused's homestead as they were attending a funeral in the same village."Around midnight, Marume returned to his homestead and entered into the sitting room where the complainant was sleeping with her three siblings aged five, nine and 13."Marume entered into the blankets where the four were sleeping. When the complainant asked him what he was doing in their blankets, he said he was covering her young sister with a blanket. Marume then proceeded to rape the complainant. He told her that he had the right to do so because he bought had bought her some panties."The 13-year-old son asked what Marume was doing, but he did not respond. He threatened the complainant with unspecified actions if she ever revealed the abuse to anyone."The following morning, the complainant's mother returned from the funeral and the girl told her what had happened. The complainant's mother asked the accused about the case and he became violent. He assaulted her, resulting in her losing her two front teeth," said Mutyasira.The matter was only reported to the police in November after the complainant's employer noticed that she was pregnant.When she asked her, she was told that she was raped by her step-father.A report was made to the police leading to Marume's arrest.
Subscribe & Save on Pookis Mahis award-winning 100% Kona Coffee Pods There are three big pain points for Pookis Mahis customers: cost of shipping, shipping time, and receiving ordered products damaged. World class operations and supply chain are core competencies CEO Les Magsalay-Zeller built into Pookis Mahi.

Pookis Mahi announced today its six month subscription plans for its popular 100% Kona coffee pods include complimentary shipping to Canada, Alaska and Hawaii.

Pookis Mahi revamped the subscription plans in 2015. Customers from Canada, Alaska and Hawaii expressed interest for zero cost shipping and the same delivery times in the Lower 48 states. Shipping to customers outside the contiguous US is very expensive.

There were three big pain points for Pookis Mahi customers: cost of shipping (added fees at checkout), shipping time, and receiving ordered products damaged. Customers expect to order products and have their purchases delivered to the final destination undamaged within two to three business days. Customers do not want to wait beyond five business days for their orders. If customers do wait, then they might as well go to the nearest Pookis Mahi wholesaler that carries our products, explains Pookis Mahis Founder/CEO Les Magsalay-Zeller.

Les continues, This is Pookis Mahis standard operations approach for the Lower 48 states. Weve extended the same approach to Canada, Alaska and Hawaii. Orders are fulfilled within two business days with a seven to ten days of transit time. Pookis Mahis customers do not pay extra for the fast delivery.

Pookis Mahis 100% Kona coffee 6 Month Subscription



Individually Wrapped

Price: $244.75  100% Kona, 100% Kona Estate Extra Fancy, 100% Kona Decaf, 100% French Roast

Price: $305.95  100% Kona Peaberry

Complimentary Shipping: Lower 48 States Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska

Package Size: 24 count

Delivery Frequency: 1 Box every month for six months

Pookis Mahis 100% Kona coffees pods were roasted in machines that are not in contact with wheat/gluten, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk or soy. Shipping to the Lower 48 States is included. The new products are compatible with 1.0 and 2.0 single serve coffee makers.

Pookis Mahis CEO Leslie Magsalay-Zeller works hard to source suppliers that consistently produce award-winning products for long-term partnerships. As an expert in New Product Introduction (NPI) and Go-To-Market (GTM) launch Les brokered partnerships with world-class fulfillment companies with a strong operations focus.

The Silicon Valley startup plans to bring complimentary shipping to several global locations closer to Pookis Mahis wholesale and distribution customers.

For use in single serve coffee makers. Pooki's Mahi, The PMO Practice, and Matcha Matcha Man are trademarks of Pooki's Mahi.

The Academy Awards  is a registered trademark of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The Gift Suites where Pookis Mahis products are show cased are not authorized by and is not associated with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, The Academy Awards, or any of its official partners or vendors.

About Pookis Mahi:

Pookis Mahi is a Silicon Valley-based private label manufacturer offering award-winning 100% Kona coffees and other specialty food products at reasonable prices. Since its online launch in 2013, Pookis Mahi products have been a favorite of customers, charities, celebrities and athletes and have been featured at red carpet events including Celebrity Gift Suites and Celebrity Poker tournaments. The products have been endorsed by many celebrities and athletes and seen on several television shows.

For more information on Pookis Mahi selection of 100% Kona coffees, award-winning teas, wholesale or to participate in the private label pilot, visit http://www.pookismahi.com. To keep up with Pookis Mahi news an access special offers, join our email list and follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@pookismahi). Pookis Mahi has a zero tolerance stop cyber-bullying policy.

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RAINN Survivor Series: Samentha Moore

Today, RAINN, with the support of Getty Images, launches a new multimedia campaign featuring seven survivors of sexual violence. Released in advance of Sexual Assault Awareness & Prevention Month in April, the campaign highlights the scope and human impact of sexual violence in the U.S. The campaign features survivors speaking openly about sexual violence, the challenges they faced, and what it means to not be defined by these experiences.

Joining the campaign is a growing list of network partners, including A&E, TLC, USA Network and MTV, as part of its multi-year, anti-bias Look Different campaign. In addition to broadcast PSAs, the campaign incorporates print ads and social media content, including web videos and animated GIFs. Collateral from this campaign will be made available for local and national television networks through the National Broadcasters Associations Spot Center and to other media and organizational partners via rainn.org.

The RAINN Survivor Series campaign was made possible by a Getty Images Creative Grant, awarded to ad agency Project Buchanan (Florence Buchanan, Creative Director) and Mother Image (Susan Carolonza Chanin, Executive Producer and photographer Rana Faure) and their partner, director Poppy de Villeneuve. In addition to funding from Getty Images, the campaign received broad pro-bono support from the New York creative community: post production and editorial house Hooligan, production company Zebra, with audio post production by Sonic Union, telecine by Nice Shoes, photo retouching and print production by Advertising Arts.

The campaign encourages those impacted by sexual violence to reach out for help through the National Sexual Assault Hotline, which saw a 10% increase in demand in the last year alone. In 2015, 157,157 people turned to the National Sexual Assault Hotline via telephone (800.656.HOPE) and secure online chat (online.rainn.org).

For many, chatting with a RAINN support specialist on the Online Hotline is the first time theyve talked to anyone about their experience: 51% of minors and 28% of adults disclose what happened for the first time during an online session.

Getty Images is committed to nurturing creative talent through our grant programs, said Andrew Delaney, Getty Images Director of Creative Content. We are excited to help RAINN shine a light on this important social issue through the Getty Images Creative Grant.

As the personal accounts of the survivors in this campaign reveal, there is no timeline for healing. Half of Online Hotline visitors use the session to talk about an event that occurred within the last six months, while 30% discuss an event that occurred more than 5 years ago.

"Each story is unique. Each survivor has such an incredible approach to their own survivorship, and defining what it means for them. Hearing the survivors speak, I learned the weight that peoples reactions could carry. It was so painful and important to hear about they had survived in addition to abuse. Many of the survivors told their stories to the National Sexual Assault Hotline for the first time, or had reached out after legal battles. As mother, a woman, and a human being, I do not accept a world like this. I want and need to be a part of change and support RAINN, said Susan Carolonza Chanin. Working with RAINN and our creative team has encouraged me to engage in the conversation about rape, sexual abuse, and incest in a very powerful way. I hope, as more and more people join this dialogue, our society will change for the better and the statistics of violence will go down. Considerably and quickly.

As a creative director, I realized that what RAINN really needed wasnt simply imagery as directed by the Getty Creative Grant but an actual marketing campaign. Getty was the incredible catalyst that set all the creative wheels in motion. When Susan and I went to DC to be briefed by Scott Berkowitz and his team, we met Julianna and Samentha from RAINNs Speakers Bureau. We were horrified by their stories, amazed by their extraordinary journeys of survival and moved by RAINNs part in their healing process. The passion in all 7 of our survivors to speak out to help others, the driving force behind RAINNs Speakers Bureau, is so powerful we decided to capture it on film. Its a campaign thats unique to RAINN: the Survivor Series. On the day of the shoot, all of the survivors said to us, if one of their stories can help one victim out there or prevent one incident of sexual abuse, it will all have been worthwhile. Indeed its true. Sexual abuse is not just a personal, behind closed doors issue, it's effects on families, communities and society are tragic and far-reaching. I know I speak for the entire creative team, we are proud to be helping RAINN reach even more people out there and expand its vital work  to help change the conversation about sexual abuse, said Florence Buchanan.

We are very grateful to the volunteers from the RAINN Speakers Bureau, who generously shared their stories of survival: Julianna Araujo, Debra Davis, Lucy Dhegrae, Adam Foldes, Barbara McLean, Samentha Moore and Keith Smith. And very special thanks to Getty Images and the entire pro-bono creative team behind the campaign, said Katherine Hull Fliflet, RAINNs vice president for communications.

This campaign was shows the commonality between survivors  from those who survived child sexual abuse, to sexual assault on a colleges campus, to intimate partner violence, said Fliflet. This campaign not only encourages victims and survivors to come forward and get help, but also speaks to the general public  helping to shape their understanding of sexual violence, and the unique role individuals can play in preventing and responding to survivors.

All seven survivors will be showcased through :30 and :60 second spots, still photography, print ads and social media content. To read more about these survivors stories and watch the videos, visit rainn.org/SurvivorSeries. Additional campaign assets will be made available in conjunction with the release of RAINNs new website, launching this spring.

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, its not your fault. You are not alone. Help is available 24/7 through the National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE and online.rainn.org, y en espanol: rainn.org/es.

About RAINN

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization and was named one of "America's 100 Best Charities" by Worth magazine. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country and operates the DoD Safe Helpline for the Department of Defense. In 2015, the Online Hotline expanded to offer services in Spanish at rainn.org/es. The hotlines have helped more than two million people since 1994. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims and ensure that rapists are brought to justice. For more information about RAINN, please visit rainn.org.
Sepsis Alliance

The Society of Critical Care Medicine and the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine recently released a consensus statement proposing to re-define the clinical syndrome of sepsis. The new diagnostic criteria eliminate the concept of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS), instead relying on known or suspected infection accompanied by new or worsening organ failure.

According to the new recommendations, sepsis would be defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction due to a dysregulated host response to infection. Septic shock will be defined as a subset of sepsis in which particularly profound circulatory, cellular, and metabolic abnormalities substantially increase mortality. Severe sepsis as a category is to be removed from the lexicon.

Sepsis Alliance applauds the increased attention brought to sepsis, a disease that is little known by the public and one that has not been given adequate focus or attention by the healthcare community. As an organization, we look forward to seeing how the new definitions will be adopted and, more importantly, how they help to improve patient outcomes.

While SA has some concerns how patients will be helped by these definitions, SA calls on the medical community and government agencies to continue tracking outcomes to ensure that these definitions result in a further decline in the sepsis mortality rates. SA also sees a gap in the new definitions, as there is no mention of the large pediatric community at risk from sepsis.

As a patient advocacy organization, Sepsis Alliance focuses on raising awareness of sepsis as a medical emergency. SA stresses that sepsis is a disease that requires early diagnosis and rapid treatment in order to save lives and prevent injury. While the number of sepsis cases continues to rise, there has been an encouraging recent reduction in mortality rates.

SA recognizes that the treatment of sepsis is a work in progress, and appreciates the significant work and commitment to improved care that drove these new recommendations.

For more information on Sepsis Alliance, please visit http://www.sepsis.org.

About Sepsis Alliance

Sepsis Alliance is the leading nonprofit patient advocacy organization in North America. Sepsis Alliance's mission is to save lives by raising awareness of sepsis as a medical emergency. The organization hosts national and community events, distributes educational information, and promotes training and education on sepsis prevention and early recognition and treatment. Sepsis Alliance also support sepsis survivors and family members with information about sepsis and Post Sepsis Syndrome, as well as a Faces of Sepsis community forum. The sepsis.org website receive 1 million visits each year. Sepsis Alliance, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, is a GuideStar Gold Rated Charity. For more information, please visit http://www.sepsis.org
Im honored to be named a Rock Star of the Supply Chain by Food Logistics  its a testament to our commitment to providing the food and beverage industry with unmatched customer service and highly-efficient barcode software. Doug Niemeyer, TEKLYNX GM

TEKLYNX International, the worlds leading barcode and RFID labeling software developer and solutions provider, today announced Doug Niemeyer, the general manager of TEKLYNX Americas, has been named a Rock Star of the Supply Chain by Food Logistics. The selective list, included in the March 2016 issue of Food Logistics magazine, features influential individuals and organizations in the food/beverage industry whose achievements, hard work, and vision have shaped and continue to attain milestones in safety, efficiency, productivity and innovation throughout the global food supply chain.

Im honored to be named a Rock Star of the Supply Chain by Food Logistics because its a testament to our commitment to providing the food and beverage industry with unmatched customer service and highly-efficient barcode software, states Niemeyer. Whether helping companies like Canada-based Oakrun Farm Bakery manage a vast number of labels or significantly reducing labeling errors and wasted stock for companies like Sartori Company, food and beverage companies look to TEKLYNX barcode and RFID labeling solutions to make labeling secure, reliable, compliant and efficient.

After significantly growing the TEKLYNX Americas division  spanning North, Central and South America as well as Australia and New Zealand  Niemeyer was promoted to general manager where he plays a critical, hands-on role ensuring both TEKLYNX robust product offering and attentive customer service approach continue to provide best-in-class barcode labeling solutions to the supply chain industry.

Our industry benefits from the vision and dedication of early pioneers and contemporary entrepreneurs alike who understand the uniquely integrated relationship between people and the global food supply chain, notes Lara L. Sowinski, editor-in-chief at Food Logistics. From farmers to transportation providers and others who play a part in the global food supply chain, this award is Food Logistics way of celebrating the talented trailblazers and inspirational mentors whose work deserves acknowledgement and appreciation.

TEKLYNX is the only barcode labeling solution provider to offer subscription licensing  allowing food and beverage manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers to start using TEKLYNX for a low cost of entry  while offering a portfolio of tiered solutions that are designed to grow with companies over time. To view the Food Logistics second annual Rock Stars of the Supply Chain list visit foodlogistics.com and to learn more about TEKLYNX barcode labeling software solutions visit teklynx.com.

About TEKLYNX International

TEKLYNX International is the worlds leading barcode and RFID labeling software developer and solutions provider. An industry innovator for over 30 years, TEKLYNX helps companies operate smoothly and efficiently by implementing labeling solutions that streamline operations while staying ahead of industry-specific compliance and emerging regulations. TEKLYNX is world-renowned for its customer service; offering flexible purchase options, unparalleled service and support, and a comprehensive product offering that grows with companies over time. With operations in the United States, Europe, Japan, Latin America, China and Singapore, more than 630,000 companies in over 120 countries look to TEKLYNX integrated software solutions for their standard of success.

Learn more by visiting teklynx.com, LinkedIn, Twitter @Teklynx, and Facebook.com/TEKLYNXInternational or call 888-629-4444.
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News / Local

by Staff Reporter

A GULLIVERS Night Club doorman was last week arraigned before the courts facing assault charges after he allegedly pinched and pushed a member of the Zimbabwe National Army who had tried to enter the club without paying.Manica Post reported that Ronny Makore (29) denied the assault charges when he appeared before Mutare provincial magistrate, Mrs Lucie-Anne Mungwari.He denied ever pinching Tapiwa Tomu (32) and claimed that he had slightly pushed him as he had insisted on entering the club without paying the $1 entrance fee."I only pushed him Your Worship. I never pinched him. There is no reason why I would even think of pinching him," he insisted.Brian Goto prosecuted.Makore was remanded out of custody to March 30 on $20 bail.Allegations were that on March 15 and at around 4.30am, Tomu tried to enter Gullivers Night Club without paying anything."Makore pinched Tomu once on the left arm and told him that he would not enter the club without paying $1."He went on to push Tomu, thereby injuring him in the process," said Karombe.
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A cookie is a small text file that a website saves on your computer or mobile device when you visit the site. Cookies are widely used in order to make websites work, or work more efficiently, as well as to provide information to the owners of the site.Website use Google Analytics, a web analytics service provided by Google, Inc. ("Google") to help analyse the use of this website. For this purpose, Google Analytics uses"cookies", which are text files placed on your computer.The information generated by the cookies about your use of this website - standard internet log information (including your IP address) and visitor behaviour information in an anonymous form - will be transmitted to and stored by Google including on servers in the United States. Google will anonymize the information sent by removing the last octet of your IP address prior to its storage.According to Google Analytics terms of service, Google will use this information for the purpose of evaluating your use of the website and compiling reports on website activity.We not use, and not allow any third party to use the statistical analytics tool to track or to collect any personally identifiable information of visitors to this site. Google may transfer the information collected by Google Analytics to third parties where required to do so by law, or where such third parties process the information on Google`s behalf.According to Google Analytics terms of service, Google will not associate your IP address with any other data held by Google.You may refuse the use of Google Analytics cookies by downloading and installing Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on. 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.
Ellen Seligman, longtime editor and publisher of McClelland & Stewart, died on Friday. She worked for M&S, one of Canada's oldest publishing houses, for nearly four decades. After joining the company in 1977 she became editorial director of fiction in 1987, and took over as publisher in 2000.

Although she was born and raised in New York, the American expat worked at M&S with some of the biggest names in Canadian literature, including Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, Leonard Cohen, and Anne Michaels. Throughout her career, Seligman edited an astounding number of award-winning books, including 23 Governor General's Literary Award winners, six Giller Prize winners, and four Man Booker Prize winners. She also served from 2009 to 2011 as president of PEN Canada, an organization that defends writers' freedom of expression.

Kristin Cochrane, president and publisher of Penguin Random House Canadathe company became full owner of M&S in 2012released a statement regarding Seligman's death on Friday.

Though we are in the business of words, I find it next to impossible to express the grief I know we all feel with the loss of this incomparable woman," Cochrane wrote. "It is too hard to come up with just the right adjective (though Ellen would of course want me to) to accurately or adequately describe the contribution Ellen made to Canadian literature.

Seligman's family chose not to release her age or cause of death, but according to Cochrane's statement, Seligman spent many of her last days "meticulously overseeing the final details for her fall books." This included editing Steven Price's novel By Gaslight, which Cochrane referred to as one of M&S's biggest fiction titles in years.

Seligman is survived by her longtime partner, James Polk and her sister, Margaret Seligman. Details of the public memorial will be announced soon.
News / Local

by Staff Reporter

A SOLDIER from Chitungwiza was last week nabbed with diamond ore in Chiadzwa by police officers manning the vast diamond fields.Manica Post reported that Fungai Gilbert Mandidewa (51) of House Number 2999, Unit L, Seke Chitungwiza appeared before Mutare magistrate, Langton Mukwengi on allegations of contravening Section 1 (1) as read by Section 3 (2) of the Precious Stones and Trade Act which prohibits unlawful dealing or possession of precious stones.However, Mandidewa pleaded guilty to trespassing into a prohibited area and denied that he was panning in the diamond fields.It was the State case led by Fletcher Karombe that on March 16 at around midnight, police details who were on patrol at Diamond Mining Company concession spotted a group of panners in the concession.The panners fled away when they saw the police officers. Upon chasing them, Mandidewa was arrested with a sack of diamond ore weighing 10kgs.Mandidewa told the court that he had visited the place with no intentions of mining for diamonds.He failed to give a reasonable answer of why he was in the field at that time and place."I admit that I was arrested while in a prohibited place, but I had no intention of mining," said Mandidewa.He was fined $100 which is supposed to be paid by April 15, of which failure to do so will see him being jailed for 60 days.In an unrelated matter, Fungai Innocent Makandi (34), Darlington Chitsa, Anold Mayere (30) and Lovemore Pongorume were also arraigned before the courts facing charges of contravening Section 1 (1) as read by Section 3 (2) of the Precious Stones and Trade Act which prohibits unlawful dealing or possession of precious stones.The quartet appeared before Mukwengi, while Shepherd Chawarika was representing the State.Chawarika told the court that on March 9, the quartet was arrested while driving to Harare."Makandi was driving with his friends in a Toyota Hilux, Registration Number ADG 5838 when they were stopped by police officers who asked them for particulars that allow the motor vehicle to be in Mbada Diamond Mining Company's concession. The quartet was taken to the police base for further verification. Upon searching the vehicle they discovered three pieces of diamonds hidden underneath the seats," said Chawarika.They were not asked to plead and the matter was adjourned to March 28 for trial after further investigation.
Nancy Olson, founder of Quail Ridge Books in Raleigh, N.C., died yesterday from kidney disease. Olson, who was 75 years old, ran Quail Ridge for 29 years.

In an e-mail to customers, general manager Sarah Goddin credited Olson with inspiring North Carolinas literary revival. Her love for literature and music, combined with her warm and expansive personality, inspired and influenced a literary Renaissance in the Raleigh community and was felt well beyond it. Those of us who were fortunate to work with her will always be guided by her passion, integrity, and courage, spiced with a large dose of humor, Goddin said.

Goddin described Quail Ridge as the first strong independent in Raleigh. When Olson moved there and couldn't find a bookstore she wanted to frequent, she opened her own in 1984. Olson befriended and promoted local writers like Charles Frazier, Lee Smith, Jill McCorkle, Allan Gurganus, and Clyde Egerton.

Publishers Weekly named Olson and Quail Ridge the 2001 Bookseller of the Year. At the time, Olson noted that the store made little profit. Nonetheless, she said: Im satisfied because Im doing a great community service, and I have a great life.

Olson retired and sold the store to Lisa Poole in 2013.

A memorial service will be announced on the Quail Ridge website.
A Quad-Cities college student is launching a summer painting business.

Sarah Gomez grew up in Moline, graduated from United Township High School in East Moline and attended Black Hawk College. Now a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in molecular biology on a pre-physician's assistant path, Ms. Gomez plans to offer College Works Painting in the Quad-Cities.

Founded in 1993, College Works Painting operates in more than 35 states and annually paints more than 10,000 homes a year, according to the company's website. Along with making them money, it teaches undergraduate students how to manage their own business.

"I was hesitant when I learned that only a handful of students were accepted," Ms. Gomez said. "But I went through with the interviews anyways, and I am glad that I did.

"It can be tough work, but I know that I will only gain as much out as I am willing to put into it," she said.

Ms. Gomez said College Works Painting has a contract with Sherwin-Williams and will be training the local painters she will be hiring. She said the program lets her buy tools and paint at a discounted price, which will be paid out of her commission-based paychecks. She plans to offer exterior painting and staining of buildings, decks, fences and patios. For details, call

For more details, contact Ms. Gomez at 309-230-1984 or email sarah.gomez2777@yahoo.com.
CHICAGO (AP)  Eddie Johnson didn't apply for a chance to become Chicago's police chief, but the department's chief of patrol could address many challenges facing Mayor Rahm Emanuel and a city reeling from a police shooting scandal.

Emanuel is searching for a new chief during a spike in violent crime, low department morale and intensified scrutiny of police shootings, in particular the death of Laquan McDonald, a black teen shot 16 times by a white officer. Former Superintendent Garry McCarthy was fired days after police video of McDonald's death was released in November.

Johnson, a 27-year department veteran, was named interim police chief Monday after Emanuel bypassed three finalists recommended by the city's police board. A former commander on the South Side, Johnson is black and a Chicago native, satisfying concerns from aldermen who urged Emanuel to involve them in the selection after two consecutive white superintendents came from outside Chicago. Former colleagues credit Johnson with the ability to unify officers.

Emanuel called Johnson well-respected in the department and cited his knowledge of Chicago's communities and its residents. He said Johnson would have officers' backs when they do their job and hold them accountable when they do not.

Echoing that, Johnson said officers must watch out for each other but also hold each other to a high standard. He said police must be defined by their reputation, integrity and character.

Johnson grew up in the rough Cabrini Green housing project until the age of 9, when his family moved to a South Side neighborhood where he still resides. He joined the police department in 1988 and held supervisor roles including lieutenant, deputy chief of area central and chief of patrol, where he commanded 8,000 officers.

The black and Latino caucuses of the Chicago City Council say they're pleased with Emanuel's choice, but some community leaders raised questions about the pick and criticized Emanuel's process in bypassing the three finalists.

The Revs. Jesse Jackson and Ira Acree said the mayor's actions undermined the police board. Emanuel won a tough re-election bid last year  in which black and Latino votes were key  after vowing to listen more. Emanuel has also been accused of a cover-up in the McDonald case for releasing the video only after being ordered to by a judge.

"You would think that in the aftermath of the Laquan McDonald police scandal, that Mayor Emanuel would have learned his lesson and honored his pledge of giving Chicago ultimate transparency in the pursuit of rebuilding public trust," Acree said. "There has been nothing transparent in the selection of this superintendent."

Jackson said the culture of the police department needs to be changed and the way an insider was chosen "complicates and compounds the crisis within the police department."

Emanuel's spokeswoman, Kelley Quinn said the mayor spent months talking with community groups before his decision.

A city ordinance allows Emanuel to appoint an interim chief and ask the board for new finalists. Johnson will have to apply. Police Board President Lori E. Lightfoot said in a statement Sunday that the board wouldn't take action until it received communication from the mayor. The board didn't immediately respond to messages Monday.

The announcement comes days after the black and Latino caucuses, who together make up more than half of the city's 50-member council, called on Emanuel to seek a minority and someone from within the department. The Black Caucus stopped short of endorsing Eugene Williams, a black deputy chief in Chicago who was a finalist.

Caucus chairman Alderman Roderick Sawyer said he didn't lobby exclusively for Johnson to get the job, but believed the selection signified that Emanuel heard their concerns.

"I just thought he listened to what we had to say, and I believe he thought the qualities (we wanted) made sense, and maybe he picked somebody who fit those qualities. I don't think that we, individually, had any individual say-so in what the mayor did," he said Monday.

Latino Caucus members had been upset that interim Superintendent John Escalante, named to the post after McCarthy's departure, wasn't a finalist. But chairman Alderman George Cardenas called Johnson a "win-win candidate."

Richard Wooten, a leader of retired black officers, who worked under Johnson's leadership, said Johnson inspired loyalty among patrol officers and "can quiet the storm" of community mistrust.
Trooper James Sauter died on March 28, 2013 when his patrol car was struck by a tractor-trailer on Interstate 294 in suburban Cook County. The Wisconsin trucker who killed the trooper after falling asleep was sentenced to two years in prison.

"Operation Sauter" begins on Monday, the three-year anniversary of its namesake's death.

State police will check commercial driver's logbooks to ensure they are properly documenting the number of hours driven.

The driver who killed Sauter had exceeded the 14-hour daily legal limit and filed a false work log to hide that violation.
DAVENPORT  An Iowa Supreme Court ruling issued last week will redefine the way city and county governments discuss business under the state's Open Meetings Act.

The court ruled on Friday that the Warren County Board of Supervisors violated the Open Meetings Act when supervisors discussed staff cuts through notes passed by the county administrator. The ruling says the county administrator acted as a "proxy" to conduct government business without making it public.

Iowa law defines a meeting as a gathering in person or by electronic means, formal or informal, of a majority of the members of a governmental body where there is deliberation or action upon any matter within the scope of the governmental bodys policy-making duties."

How the ruling will affect Quad-Cities governments is not clear. Numerous officials on Monday did not return calls seeking comment on how the ruling would affect them.

One who did, Davenport Mayor Frank Klipsch, said the city is working on initiatives to improve transparency and inclusiveness in government, saying the city has begun a citizen academy to engage and include Davenport residents among other steps.

He would not say if the city would do away with its weekly Tuesday briefings, in which the council's 10 members meet in groups of five to discuss business in closed sessions. By limiting the meetings to five aldermen, the city contends, they do not violate the open meetings act.

"We've had a plan all along to evolve our system of meetings," Mr. Klipsch said. "It's really not related to the Supreme Court decision; it's just about being and open and transparent and inclusive."

The Dispatch and The Rock Island Argus reported in June 2015 that Davenport aldermen met in a closed session in separate rooms of City Hall to avoid violating the Open Meetings Act shortly before then-city administrator Craig Malin signed a separation agreement after being asked to resign. The law says members of government cannot discuss government business if a majority of city council members are present.

Later in June 2015, aldermen met secretly in separate groups to discuss developer Todd Raufeisen's proposed $11.2 million project for the location of the former Dock restaurant. The project was eventually scrapped.

Aldermen in groups of no more than five meet every week on Tuesdays for study sessions behind closed doors to discuss items that will appear on Wednesday's committee of the whole or city council meeting agendas.

Similar meetings in Bettendorf have drawn criticism as well.

Attempts to talk with more officials about the Supreme Court ruling were unsuccessful. The following did not return requests for comment on Monday: Davenport city administrator Corri Spiegel, Davenport city attorney Tom Warner, Davenport assistant city attorney Brian Heyer, Bettendorf city administrator Decker Ploehn, Bettendorf city attorney Kristine Stone and Scott County Attorney Mike Walton.
SILVIS  City leaders recently added to Lori Medina's famous jewelry collection.

The diamond-shaped plaque they presented to the Silvis police dispatch supervisor honored her 25th anniversary in the department. City leaders also proclaimed Saturday, March 19, as "Lori Medina Day in the city of Silvis."

Mrs. Medina thought the shape of the plaque meant they were poking fun at her for all the jewelry shopping she's been known to do, but Silvis Police Chief Mark VanKlaveren reminded her that it was because of her 25th anniversary, the diamond one, of being in the department.

"Oh, yeah, that's why," she said.

She took the police dispatcher job in 1991, and said she still doesn't really know what she wants to do when she grows up.

Mrs. Medina is a 1978 United Township High School graduate and remains an avid Panther patron.

She could have retired in June, but thinks "I can do another five," she said. She especially looks forward to finally getting her own office when the new Silvis Police Station gets built.

Mrs. Medina's not sure if any of her fellow dispatchers will join her in the new building because of consolidation talks going on among area police departments.

"I may be all by myself, but I don't plan to apply for a dispatcher job and would stay here," she said.

Although her title is dispatch supervisor, Mrs. Medina also takes care of a wide range of administrative duties and paperwork for the department, Chief VanKlaveren said.

She also helps "police the police," he said. "She keeps us in line."

Mrs. Medina's more worried about her dispatch colleagues all having jobs after a legally required center consolidation is completed.

A law signed by Gov. Bruce Rauner in June requires the six Public Safety Answering Point emergency dispatching centers serving Rock Island County be cut in half by June 30, 2017, according to earlier reports. A plan must be put in place by the end of this June.

Current centers include one at the Rock Island Arsenal and others in Rock Island County, Rock Island, Moline/East Moline, Milan and Silvis. The Arsenal will keep its own because of being a federal agency. Rock Island and Rock Island County also will keep their own centers, leaving Moline, East Moline, Milan and Silvis to consider consolidating.

Mrs. Medina once had worked as a Rock Island County dispatcher, and at a local car dealership before that.

She and her husband, John Medina, have been married for 36 years and have three adult children, Bryan, 35; Nicole, 31; and Rachel, 26; and have five grandchildren. They also are caring for a golden retriever named Brody, and a cockapoo named Macy.

Mrs. Medina spent her proclaimed day with two of her grandkids.

She took them shopping at a local mall but, for a change, didn't shop for jewelry. After all, she already had gotten her newest diamond, thanks to the city council.
Press release submitted by Quad City Arts

Zydeco residency to conclude this years Visiting Artist Series

Rock Island, Ill.  Friday, April 1, 2016

Zydeco musician Terrance Simien will visit schools throughout the Quad Cities April 2-8 during a one-week residency that will conclude the 2015-2016 Quad City Arts Visiting Artist Series.

Two-time Grammy award winner Terrance Simien is an ambassador for zydeco all over the world. From his collaborations with Randy Newman on music for Disneys The Princess and the Frog, to his Zydeco Experience tours, Simien is one of the most accomplished artists in American roots music today.

During his Quad Cities residency, Simien will perform at 14 Quad City area schools for elementary through high school students.

A full-length concert by Terrance Simien will be 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the Rogalski Center, at St. Ambrose University, Davenport. The concert will feature a dance floor, creole-themed buffet available for purchase, and a cash bar. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for seniors, faculty, staff, and alumni. Tickets for students and children are $11. Group tickets are available for $10 each. For tickets, call Galvin at 563-333-6251.

The Visiting Artist Series runs through April 2016 and offers seven performing arts residencies, from a woodwind quintet to a jazz quartet.

For more information, visit www.quadcityarts.com.

About the Visiting Artist Series

Quad City Arts is a nonprofit local arts agency dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the Quad City region through the arts.

Quad City Arts programs are funded in part by Festival of Trees, Quad City Arts Partners, operating grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency, and the Iowa Arts Council, a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs.

Quad City Arts also receives significant support for the Visiting Artist Series from Scott County Regional Authority, National Endowment for the Arts, John Deere, Bechtel Charitable Trust, Iowa Arts Council, Chamber Music America, the Amy Helpenstell Foundation, Arts Midwest Touring Fund, Rock Island Community Foundation, the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine, McKay Trust, and Rauch Family Foundation I.

Smart Toyota donates vehicles for artists use during residencies, and hotels provide rooms. Performance space is provided by the Butterworth Center; First Presbyterian Church, Davenport; St. Ambrose University; and Central Performing Arts Center, DeWitt; and Polyrhythms at the River Music Experience. Additional support comes from service fees paid by school districts, Parent Teacher Associations, service clubs, and businesses.

Contact: Margot Day, community engagement specialist at Quad City Arts, mday@quadcityarts.com or 309-793-1213, ext. 106.
News / Local

by Stephen Jakes

People in wards 3, 5 and 6 in Umzingwane reportedly complained through their respective councillors as to why social welfare food was being distributed at night as this seemed to open this routine up for corruption and theft.Zimbabwe Peace Project reported that allegations were that on 28 February 2016, an official from the welfare department identified as MaMoyo distributed maize in wards 3 and 5 between 9 pm and 11 pm."The previous day she had distributed in ward 6 between 6 pm and 10 pm. Councillors from other wards confronted her over this and she responded that the food trucks always arrived very late," ZPP said. "On 16 February 2016, war veteran, Cephas Sebata, allegedly demanded that all members of the Bethel Primary School Committee in Gwanda Central attend Zanu-PF meetings. He accused the chairperson Msongelwa Masuku of being a Zapu member and the others of being anti ruling party."ZPP said residents of Gwanda Town abandoned their planned demonstration against Zimbabwe National Water Authority and their residents'association chairperson Bekezela Maduma when they were informed that riot Police would descend on them.The town at times goes up to a week without water.
Contrary to what President Obama espouses, terrorists held at Guantanamo have not been rehabilitated or modified their ideology. Releasing them back into the hands of jihadist warfare is a HUGE mistake.

Patrick Dunleavy wrote an informative, investigative report on this subject at investigativeproject.org/5171/plans-that-lead-astray-closing-guantanamo.

Ill hit the highlights.

During the years of his presidency, Obama has released countless terrorists to other countries without adequate thought to preventing them from returning to the battlefield against U.S. soldiers and civilians. Law enforcement and counter terrorism experts struggle with this. Obama is like the cat that just plays with the mouse and then releases it.

A recent Congressional Research Service report stated that as many as 100 inmates convicted of terror-related crimes will be released during the next five years. Obamas two release options are sending them to other countries or transferring them to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. However, he cannot close Guantanamo without congressional approval. Both are foolish.

Releasing terrorists to a neutral country does not assure that they will not be able to reconnect with the jihadist movement. Placing them in U.S. prisons will not restrict them from influencing other inmates to their cause.

If you too are concerned about this safety risk to Americans, please contact your congressman and both U.S. senators to let them know how you feel.

Mike Steffen

Moline
For too many years local K-12 schools have not received the funding they need.

The states education funding formula was created to provide a level playing field that ensured all students in Illinois received the quality education they deserve.

The formula was designed to take into account local resources and other variables, and allocate state financial resources accordingly.

Formulas flaws

Unfortunately, it has become evident there are some flaws within the existing formula.

To make matters worse, over the past seven years Democrat lawmakers have intentionally prorated the education funding formula from anywhere between 87 percent to 97 percent. Proration means intentionally giving schools less funding than determined necessary by the funding formula.

This has caused schools to suffer -- on top of the formulas existing weaknesses. Impoverished students have suffered even more significantly, because proration affects funding for foundation level grants and Low-Income grants.

What schools need

There are two things we must do to properly address these issues.

-- First, we need a new school funding formula to correct the current formulas fundamental flaws.

-- Second, we need to prioritize resources to adequately fund our schools. Changing the formula wont happen overnight.

It will take bipartisan negotiations and input from stakeholders, including local school districts, to see this reform through.

The most important thing we can do right now, THIS SPRING, is provide full General State Aid (GSA) funding to our kids schools.

This year, the governor proposed $4.8 billion for GSA to Illinois schools.

This is a $55 million increase, which would allow us to fully fund GSA -- the $6,119 foundation level and low-income grants -- for the first time in seven years. Every school is better off when its GSA payment is fully funded, rather than underfunded.

Fully funding GSA to is the best short term way to support our kids schools while we put in the work to create a new formula.

As we work toward a permanent solution and real reforms to get money to the school districts that need it, we must prioritize GSA to schools.

Prioritizing full-funding of GSA means more money for our K-12 system, period.
Last week I wrote a piece about moving interstate for a job. How I was feeling super lonely in a new city and struggling to find friends. Since writing it my Twitter and Facebook exploded.

Im talking thousands of inboxes and tweets.

Most of them from people saying how lonely and friendless they felt when they moved to Canberra, (or other states and territories for work).

Almost every person who wrote to me said I will hang with you, I have no friends either! I think its extraordinary that so many people would reach out and want to befriend a stranger. (Faith in humanity restored) But in reality, its more a reflection of the frustration of isolation and friendlessness.

So, I took a few people up on their offers, and am happy to report Im going to a BBQ next weekend with some Canberrans I have been chatting to on Facebook.

Am I nervous about this? Of course.

But, I guess this week I have learnt that its about saying yes to anything and everything. Even if its after work and youre tired and couldnt be bothered. Its about really throwing yourself out there and stepping outside your comfort zone. I guess, I get a bit anxious when it comes to this kind of stuff. (I know you wouldnt think it, due to being a radio announcer, but I am.)

So with this in mind, I went all out. I asked a girl at work out for dinner and we have been out twice since. We text a lot too. Its about having someone to download the day to, and its comforting knowing I have someone to text Sunday morning seeing if they want to do brekky.

A lady I met at the Colour Run inboxed me on Facebook, and we have a movie date locked in for after Easter.

Some of the Canberra media tweeted me, so Im looking forward to hanging out with those guys too. I think we might start a network for young media professionals in Canberra. (What a win!)

(Thats another interesting point, its also about finding friend matches- if you will. Finding those like-minded people or your people. You have to find people you click with. Its like dating, youve got to have that spark!)

Oh, I also signed up for terrarium school. Where you learn to make terrariums. I know. So random.

I found there is a ukulele group in town too, so I plan to go to that as well.

And while Im doing EVERYTHING, I also inquired about an adults ballet class. I will look horrific in a leotard. But YOLO, right?

Im just going to step out right of my comfort zone. As Jillian Michaels says, If you dont ask a girl or a guy on a date, you wont get rejected. But you wont fall in love either. If you dont apply for the job, then you wont get the position you want.

Interestingly, we have a new female announcer (from Townsville) starting next week. So Im really excited to be her first Canberra friend. In fact, Im demanding she come to dinner with me week one! She will be me two months ago  new in town and with no friends.

So, guess what Bethany, youre my new bestie.

So  yes. I have finally found friends! Well, Im at least on my way.

Tanya does Breakfast with Ryan Jon on hit104.7 Canberra
News / National

by Liberty Dube

A SAKUBVA man was last Saturday arrested with 87 bales and five sacks of second-hand clothes as well as a sack of shoes at Christmas Pass roadblock around 1am.Manica Post reported that The goods worth $36 000 had been smuggled into the country from Mozambique.However, Jacob Saungweme of House Number 197, Chineta, Sakubva whose vehicle was impounded and spent the whole weekend parked at Mutare Central Police Station, was slapped with a six-month jail term on Tuesday.He had pleaded guilty to the charges of smuggling when he appeared before senior Mutare magistrate, Sekai Chiwundura on Tuesday.Fletcher Karombe prosecuted.Saungweme was given an option to pay a fine of $300 by April 15, failure to do so would result in him being jailed for six months.The court heard that Saungweme who was employed by Kizito Martins as a truck driver was nabbed with the consignment on March 19 at around 1am at Christmas Pass along Mutare-Harare Highway.Karombe said Saungweme arrived at the roadblock driving a Hino Truck Registration Number ACS3881 heading towards Harare and was signaled to stop."Saungweme engaged the reverse gear and attempted to avoid the roadblock by reversing away from it."After reversing for about 200 metres, the accused stopped the vehicle and jumped out leaving the engine running and fled into the nearby bush."The police had a physical check on the abandoned vehicle and discovered that it was loaded with 86 sealed bales, five sacks of second-hand clothes and one sack of shoes and impounded the vehicle and its consignment. It was driven to Mutare Central Police Station."Saungweme was arrested on Monday and had no papers relative to the goods which were carried by the vehicle which was in Contravention of Section 174 (2) (b) of the Customs and Excise Act, Chapter 23:02 (failure to account for goods that should be accounted for)," he said.The goods were surrendered to Zimra under Notice of Seizure Number 002816 and 002815 respectively.
Zipping among the stars is no longer something that can only be achieved by global superpowers and multinational firms with deep pockets and legions of rocket scientists. Instead, we are witnessing a movement, one of democratization, that has made outer space accessible to not only the global superpowers and large multinationals, but to developing countries, start-ups, universities and even high schools.

To date, the credit for this democratization movement has been given to technological advances like additive manufacturing technologies; small, energy-efficient computing; and lower-cost launch systems. From this landscape a stark reality is emerging  the challenge for the space community no longer lies in cultivating legions of rocket scientists, but instead in determining new roles for stakeholders and the development of creative, novel business plans.

Since the start of the space age, those interested in reaching, exploring and using space have essentially spared no cost in doing so. The fiscal expenditures for missions to the moon topped 4 percent of the total annual U.S. federal budget  an astounding amount when compared with the less than 1 percent that NASA receives today. While some of this money was spent at national laboratories and otherwise within the federal infrastructure, much of it went to commercial firms and universities to develop capability and products.

But the financial backing of non-federal entities was only part of the story. Historically in the United States, federal agencies and departments were solely responsible for scoping and directing a vast majority of the activities related to the pursuit of pure science while interlacing the strategy for how these breakthroughs would be integrated into the scientific and manned missions to space. The roles of the stakeholders were clear, the market was exceedingly simple and the value proposition for all parties was straightforward.

Yet today there is a need for a new economic model  one that is responsive and agile  to govern civil and commercial space due to the reality of continued political and budgetary uncertainty mixed with this growing democratization movement. The new model must account for the lower barriers to entry and the inevitable entry of more and more stakeholders.

Gone is the time when the governments dominated the markets and national interests alone drove the development of the outer-space environment.

Gone is the time when the governments dominated the markets and national interests alone drove the development of the outer-space environment. Going forward there must be a deliberate focus on revenue, sustainability and on determining the demand and expectations for space services from the perspective of individual citizens. In other words, commercial interest must play a leading role.

As the stakeholder community broadens and business cases become more plentiful, national space agencies are facing a sort of identity crisis. Long looked to as the primary source for strategic guidance, technical design and financial support for civil space systems, these national entities are being forced to learn to vary their roles according to mission goals, design and cost  a development that, while seemingly uncomfortable at first, should yield positive results.

The shift doesn't apply universally to all mission types, as practical business cases for pure science missions will remain elusive. (One example: the New Horizons spacecraft that flew by Pluto in 2015.) Yet, these science missions that are aimed purely at discovery are a minor subset of the way space is being used. For all others there are either strong existing or emergent revenue streams upon which commercial firms can cement their plans.

So what is a national space agency to do? There remains tremendous value in acting as a thought leader and innovation catalyst for new space exploration and development. Entities like NASA should still consider pouring healthy doses of investment into pure science and basic research that would support future space capabilities and missions. They should also consider continuing to share the results of these activities with the broader stakeholder community and acting as a convener for stakeholders interested in exploiting these advances.

Further, they should think about promoting the development of new markets for space, actively seeking ways to further reduce the barriers for new entrants, and ensuring that the policy and regulatory environment encourage both these new business models as well as the protection of the space environment. Being relieved of the responsibility and expectation for funding every new system would also allow NASA to be more strategic in its investments while allowing market forces to determine a more competitive cost structure.

This shift will lay significant responsibility on commercial firms and stakeholders since they will be required to keep pace with changing technologies and take charge in designing the system architectures of the future that are both economically viable and technologically sustainable.

Such activities will spawn innovative business cases that will need to be tailored and vetted. That's the point where economists and business experts will join the rocket scientists and engineers in developing outer space into a business environment that is commercially led and government catalyzed.

William Welser IV is the director of the Engineering and Applied Sciences Department and a senior management systems analyst at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation.

This commentary originally appeared on Inside Sources on March 25, 2016. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
Russian court upholds ruling over insurance money for Superjet crash in Indonesia

MOSCOW, March 28 (RAPSI) - The West-Siberian District Federal Commercial Court has upheld the lower courts ruling ordering twenty foreign insurance companies to pay Russia's Kapital Strakhovaniye about $16 million over the Superjet 100 aicraft crash in Indonesia in May 2012, according to court records.

Foreign insurers have appealed decisions made in 2015 in favor of the plaintiff by a Khanty-Mansi regional commercial court and the Eighth Commercial Court of Appeals.

Twenty-four companies were initially defendants in the case. However, due to partial payment of the debt, the plaintiff withdrew claims against some of them.

Kapital Strakhovaniye initially claimed $32.4 million in damages from the companies that provided insurance for 48 people on board. The sum was reduced to $16 million after partial payments were made.

General Insurance Corporation of India, Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A., UK Branch, Swiss Re Europe S.A., Starr Insurance and Reinsurance Limited (London) are named among defendants in the case. The lawsuit was filed back in June 2013.

The Moscow Commercial Court also heard another plane crash related suit. Sukhoi Company demanded $29.5 million in insurance payouts for the SSJ-100 from Kapital Strakhovaniye. In September 2013, the parties signed an amicable agreement under which the underwriter committed to pay the plaintiff $14.1 million in addition to the previous payments. The insurance company claimed that the insurance agreement on the plane was 95% reinsured in the Western market.

The plane crashed on its first ever demonstration tour, that was to include six Asian countries, over Indonesia on May 9, 2012. All those on board, including eight Russian nationals, were killed.

The plane crashed into Mount Salak at an altitude of 1.6 km. The investigation found that the disaster was caused by human error.
Russian banker Gitelsons claim for his own bankruptcy set for April 27

MOSCOW, March 28 (RAPSI) - The Commercial Court of St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region has scheduled for April 27 the hearing of a claim filed by the former head of EEFC-Ural Bank, Alexander Gitelson, who was running banking business in Russia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, for his own bankruptcy, RIA Novosti reported on Monday.

Gitelsons claim was accepted by the court for hearing in February 2016.

In October, Russias Supreme Court refused to review court rulings ordering Gitelson, and two other former top managers of the bank to pay 300.2 million rubles ($4.4 million) in damages in a lawsuit filed by the Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA).

The Commercial Court of Appeals of the Sverdlovsk Region on March 1, 2015 dismissed a petition filed by the Deposit Insurance Agency, the current bankruptcy receiver of EEFC-Ural Bank, to collect 350.2 million rubles ($5.1 million) from the defendants.

The DIA argued that the defendants did damage to the bank in the said amount by approving unrecoverable loans.

The Seventeenth Commercial Court of Appeals in late May overturned this decision and issued a ruling that Gitelson, and two other former top managers of the bank must pay 300.2 million rubles in damages. On August 21, the Commercial Court of the Urals District upheld this ruling.

Gitelson was arrested in Austria in April 2013 and extradited to Russia in December.

In March 2015, Gitelson was convicted and sentenced to three years for embezzling over 2 billion rubles ($26.3 million) in public funds from Inkasbank. A court in St. Petersburg also fined the banker 500,000 rubles ($6,600).

Inkasbank was declared bankrupt in May 2009. The banks administrator conducted an inquiry into the circumstances of the banks insolvency. As a result, the Russian Federal Security Service received a motion to open a criminal case (premeditated bankruptcy) against the banks former management.

In April 2011, Moscows Meshchansky District Court sentenced Gitelson in absentia to five years in prison and a 1 million ruble ($13,200) fine for embezzling 495 million rubles ($6.5 million) from his acquaintance, MP Adnan Muzykayev.
Belgian authorities charge three suspects in Brussels terror attacks case

MOSCOW, March 28 (RAPSI)  Three men arrested on Sunday during searches related to Brussels terror attacks have been charged with terrorism, RIA Novosti reported on Monday citing Belgian federal prosecutors office.

According to Belgian prosecutors, a judge has ruled to put three suspects, Yasin A., Mohamed B. and Abubaker O. in detention.

On Sunday, Belgian authorities conducted 13 searches related to the terrorism case in the Flemish Mechelen and Duffel, as well as in the municipalities of the Brussels Molenbeek and Anderlecht, Laken district and commune in central Brussels. Nine people were arrested; six of them were released later.

Two explosions occurred at the Brussels Airport on Tuesday. Belgian authorities believe that one of the explosive devices could be triggered by a suicide bomber. The third explosion occurred in the subway at the Malbec station. 34 people died in the terror attacks, another 230 were injured.

The Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group banned in Russia and some other countries has assumed responsibility for these terror attacks.
Member of Russian gang sentenced to 22 years in prison for widespread killings

MOSCOW, March 28 (RAPSI, Lyudmila Klenko)  The Moscow Region Court has sentenced Robert Bagayev, a member of a gang that allegedly killed over 40 people, to 22 years in prison and fined him 500,000 rubles ($7,300), the courts press service told RAPSI on Monday.

Bagayev was found guilty of participation in a criminal group, gangsterism, attempted murder, killings, illegal deprivation of freedom and ammunition trafficking.

Russian investigators claim that Bagayev joined the gang in 2006 and later took part in killings and kidnapping. He got a monthly salary of $1,000.

According to investigators, Georgian-born Aslan Gagiyevs gang has been operating since 2004 and includes over 50 members.

Members of the gang committed more than 40 counts of murder in Moscow and North Ossetia. Some of them have already been convicted and are serving long prison terms. Sixteen members of the gang have already received long prison terms, and an additional thirteen suspects are wanted by Interpol and federal law enforcement agencies.

Three more members, including the gangs leader Aslan Gagiyev were arrested in other foreign states and are to be extradited.

Gagiyev who was arrested in Austria in January 2015 faces life sentence in Russia.




Last Thursday, Haaretz published its most recent opinion poll, in which it checked what the election results would be if held today, should Moshe Kahlon, Gideon Sa'ar and former chief of staff Gabi Ashkenazi decide to run together in a single list (to be referred to in this article as KSA).

The results of the poll were that such a list would beat the Likud under Netanyahu (only just) and that a Center coalition, including KSA, the Zionist Union, Yesh Atid and the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties, but without the Likud, Bayit Yehudi and Yisrael Beytenu, would have a comfortable majority. The Likud, Bayit Yehudi and Yisrael Beytenu would together lose seven seats.

If the KSA potential were to be realized, it would be a right-of-center party. Two of its leaders would be Likud refugees - ambitious Likud politicians with leadership aspirations, viewed by Netanyahu as potential rivals to be neutralized at any cost. Ashkenazi has so far refrained from making any political statements, but is generally viewed as a Labor hawk, who appears to be wary of trying to penetrate the Labor leadership hornet's nest.

Should KSA materialize, it will not be the first time that a new list, based on a combination of former Likudniks and Laborites, plus additional centrist figures, entered the scene in a storm. Some of these lists did impressively well in their first elections, but none survived more than two terms.

All the previous lists of this nature - Dash, formed in 1977 toward the elections to the 9th Knesset, the Center Party, formed in 1999 toward the elections to the 15th Knesset and Kadima, formed in 2005 in the course of the 16th Knesset, were all headed initially by former generals: former chief of staff Yigal Yadin in the case of Dash, Yitzhak Mordechai in the case of the Center Party and Ariel Sharon in the case of Kadima.

Dash did extremely well in the 1977 elections (the election of the Upheaval) with 15 Knesset seats, but soon fell apart because Menachem Begin was not dependent on it to form his first coalition, and Yadin was a total novice at politics. The Center Party received only six seats in the 1999 elections, and though it joined the Barak government after the elections, it disintegrated soon after Barak was replaced by Sharon in 2001. Kadima inherited from the Likud the government formed by Sharon in 2003 (when he was still leader of the Likud), and then proceeded to form another government, under Ehud Olmert, after Sharon suffered a stroke.

We do not know what would have transpired had Sharon not suffered a stroke in January 2006, or had recuperated from it, and if Olmert had not become involved in petty corruption and been forced to resign.

Even though under Tzipi Livni Kadima gained 28 Knesset seats in the elections to the 18th Knesset in 2009 compared to the Likud's 27, it was Netanyahu who formed the government, while Kadima remained in opposition. In the elections to the 19th Knesset it received only two seats.

While these three historical parties were all formed as an alternative to the two main Israeli parties - the Likud and Labor - they were not cohesive enough to survive the vicissitudes of Israeli politics, though under different conjunctural circumstances at least Dash and Kadima might have survived.

It is, of course, impossible to predict what chances KSA has to succeed, if indeed it crystallizes into a list, and if it does, whether it will place the right person at its head. It is generally believed that one of the reasons for the rapid downfall of the Center Party was Mordechai, who was chosen as the party's leader not because he was thought to be the best choice - Amnon Lipkin Shahak (another former chief of staff) was the preferred candidate - but because of the ego games he played.

Within less than a year Mordechai resigned from Barak's government as a result of allegations of sexual harassment, for which he was eventually charged and convicted, and which put an end to his political career.

At the moment the KSA is merely a promising concept, which seems to offer the only viable alternative to Netanyahu and a Likud that has lost most of its liberals, who have been replaced by a bunch of populist provocateurs who prefer confrontational politics to the search for compromise.
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News / National

by Staff Reporter

THE High Court has granted Mandi Majoni a provisional relief order allowing her 10 days access to a Zanu-PF commercial property at the heart of Rusape  whose ownership wrangle pits her and the party's leadership in Makoni.Those representing the party have 10 days to oppose confirmation of the order.Manica Post reported that the order was granted by Justice Phiri on March 15, 2016, leading to the removal over the weekend of Zanu-PF supporters who have picketed and sealed off the commercial property that houses a showroom converted into a flea market and a service station.Majoni, through Vicemast Services (Pvt) Ltd cited Zanu-PF provincial vice-chairperson, Cde Joseph Mujati, provincial member, Cde Nathaniel Mhiripiri and one Sakupwanya  accusing them of interference with her operations at Edro Motors.Zanu-PF supporters said they were protesting over non-remittance of rentals and setting up of the recently launched opposition political party, Zimbabwe People First offices at the contentious premises.War over the control of Edro Motors  has been ranging for more than a year since the then Zanu-PF secretary for administration, Didymus Mutasa, issued Majoni a five-year lease on top of the other issued to Cleopas Mugomba following political differences.Prior to relief order, Edro Motors had became a no go zone for Majoni.All flea market operators have since been evicted in the ensuing chaos and politicians and youths loyal to Mutasa are now fighting from Majoni's corner. The flea market operators have not been paying rentals for the past year following counter-claims of legal entitlement to the property by Zanu-PF, Majoni and Mugomba.Officer commanding Rusape district police, Chief Superintendent Garikai Gwangwawa, said party supporters holed at the property co-operated with the police."The person granted the provisional order by the High Court also served police as the law enforcers to assist in ensuring that they occupy the property for 10 days. Those cited in the provisional order have 10 days to file their arguments so that the order is not confirmed."We approached those who were cited in the provisional order to inform their agents picketed at the property to leave, and all complied without hassles," said Chief Supt Gwangwawa.Cde Mujati said the party was compelled to act since the property could still be benefiting individuals expelled by the party."I think what you refer to is an issue at one of the Zanu-PF owned commercial properties where Mutasa's colleague or associate has been neglecting or refusing to honour rental obligations and the party through an estate agent has been seeking to have the woman ejected," said Cde Mujati.Some youths loyal to Mutasa were reportedly milling around the property and at one point tried to establish an office at the building, prompting the ruling party youths to act.Mutasa's youths were also evicted from a Zanu-PF house at Number 586 Arcacia Avenue in Rusape where they have been not been paying rentals.
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T.I. and his wife Tameka "Tiny" Harris have welcomed their third child together, a baby girl.

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"Yesterday, March 26th, at 2:58PM we welcomed a beautiful baby girl that weighed in at 5lbs. In true Harris fashion, our baby girl made us all HUSTLE, making a surprise early entrance," Tiny said in a statement to People magazine.

"While we expected her to arrive around April 20th, our PERFECT baby girl decided March 26th was the right time for her DEBUT. My husband, Tip Harris, went from the stage right to the plane from his show in Las Vegas and luckily, made it to Atlanta with time to spare. Our whole clan was together to see our beautiful healthy baby girl make her way into the world. Just the way I like it!!! We are looking forward to more exciting times with our #Lucky7," she continued about the babies early arrival date.

T.I., real name Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., while seemingly on his way to Atlanta to meet with his family, posted on Facebook Saturday how frustrated he was that news of the child's birth had already leaked out.

"What really pisses me off is that I'm in SouthCarolina & my wife just had our baby in Georgia which is really not something anybody could help & the fact that everybody gets to announce that 'T.I. & Tiny welcomed their baby into the world' EXCEPT T.I. & Tiny." he wrote.

"Couldn't even wait until we properly announced it but #Lucky7 is here!"

Married in 2010, the former reality stars of VH1's T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle fame are also parents to Clifford "King" Joseph Harris III, 11, and Major Philant Harris, 7.

T.I. has two older sons, Messiah Ya'Majesty Harris, 16, and Domani Uriah Harris, 15, and a 14-year-old daughter named Deyjah Imani Harris from previous relationships.

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Tiny has a 20-year-old daughter, Zonnique Jailee Pullins, from a previous relationship. She lost a baby girl six months into her pregnancy in 2007.
As your family starts to grow, chances are, you are already beginning to realize the need for a bigger house. However, some people are already comfortable living in their current home and wouldn't want to move to another one. Should you remodel and expand your house or should you move out and buy a bigger one?

There are certainly a lot of pros and cons to this scenario and one should definitely weigh their options before making a decision. Trulia listed some of the things you need to consider and see whether a remodel or a move is the right decision for you.

Home Remodeling vs. Moving

The publication noted that the costs of remodeling are likely less expensive than it would cost to move to a bigger house. It would also work best for those families who are already located in an area near their school or workplace. Remodeling may also be the best option for those who have already grown fond of their neighborhood.

Unfortunately, remodeling also has its disadvantages. The publication reported that one should take into account the noise and dirt that come with remodeling. It would be great, however, if you find a temporary house to stay in.

You should also realize that adding rooms or features to your home will not promise a return on investment. As previously reported here on Realty Today, not all remodeling projects offer a return on investment. So, if you are only remodeling for the sake of offering a better and more spacious space to live in for your family, you should not keep your hopes high and expect to get a higher house value in return.

While remodeling seems like a more sound option for many of you, the aforementioned publication noted that there are several advantages that come with moving to a bigger house. According to the outlet, moving can be more hassle-free and less time-consuming than remodeling your current home. It may also signal the start of a new chapter in your life as well as your family's.
Lesbos had become the unlikely center of the Greek island's refugee issue in August 2015. Aeolian Sun travel agency owner Maria Papageorgiou said that people were sleeping outside her shop. She claimed that these people had no water to drink or to wash themselves with.

Papageorgiou stated that she remained emotionally shocked by the disaster that engulfed the area overnight. From her window, she saw the Coast Guard dumping body bags of the drowned. The shop owner even said that she felt that she was in Syria personally and that it was like a war zone.

Lesbos residents organized a heroic humanitarian project to support the refugees. In fact, an 85-year-old grandmother who fed people on the beach and a local fisherman who saved scores of refugees from the water had been nominated for a Nobel peace prize as representatives of the island's collective effort. Then in September, the United Nations and the Non Government Organizations came in and began dealing with the situation, according to a report from The Guardian.

The Lesbos locality welcomed around 30,000 refugees from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan this February alone. The number in actuality is equivalent to the whole population of Mytilene. In the weekend, an EU deal with Turkey was orchestrated to close the path by which a million people travelled the Aegean Sea to Greece in 2015. After which thousands more arrived on the island, despite forced removal warnings. At the same time, hundreds tried to vacate the island for Athens in a last attempt to arrive in northern Europe.

Lesbos' tourist-dependent economy was offset by the accommodations of both refugees and international aid. The crisis had transformed the island, but opinion on how, and whether, it will recover was still divided. The island's tourist-dependent economy had already been stretched by a government debt crisis, according to a feature from the Independent.
Madison Turner said the most defining moment of her life happened in August 2015 when more people than ever attended the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event she founded on the University of Georgia campus in 2014 through the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention group.
The 19-member Board of Regents decides whether undocumented immigrants can attend the University of Georgia, whether smoking will be allowed on campuses, who the president of each state university will be and whether tuition rates will rise for the 318,164 students in the system.
News / National

by Staff Reporter

The ministry of Finance is seeking to compensate thousands of policyholders and pensioners who lost their savings in the conversion to US dollars from Zimbabwean currency in 2009.Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa has introduced legislation to facilitate the setting up of a commission to look into the unsavoury happenings that resulted in many losing value on their hard earned savings."Where it has been established that pension fund members or insurance policyholders have been materially prejudiced, to establish an appropriate basis for compensating such pension fund members or insurance policyholders or beneficiaries of such persons," an excerpt from amendment of proclamation 8 of 2015 says.The law provides for investigation of the financial soundness of Zimbabwe's insurance and pension industry before and after the conversion the Zimbabwe dollar era to US dollar or multi-currency system."If any financial unsoundness is established, to identify the causes thereof, and to establish how the financial soundness of insurance and pensions industry can be resolved," the provisions say, adding failure of regulation, Governance and oversight in running funds and monitoring will also come under scrutiny.The legislation promulgated last year sought to probe the role pension funds and insurance firms played in the financial prejudice, other than what went wrong, why and how that happened, as Zimbabwe exited the decade long economic tailspin.Insurance policyholders and pension fund members are feared to have lost significant value when Zimbabwe transitioned to a basket of currencies dominated by the greenback.
FILE - In this Jan. 30 1996 file photo, British musician Paul McCartney cuts a giant cake modelled on the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, watched by producer George Martin, in Liverpool, England. George Martin, the Beatles' urbane producer who guided, assisted and stood aside through the band's swift, historic transformation from rowdy club act to musical and cultural revolutionaries, has died, his management said Wednesday, March 9, 2016. He was 90. (David Kendall/PA via AP, File) UNITED KINGDOM OUT NO SALES NO ARCHIVE

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By The Associated Press

The Beatles captured the hearts and ears of a generation with music that continues to resonate today. Here are 12 hits by the Beatles, produced by George Martin, whose contributions ranged far beyond the traditional producer role, from arranging to composing to playing instruments:

 "Please Please Me" (1962): After "Love Me Do," this was the song that rocketed the Beatles to fame on both sides of the Atlantic. Martin is said to have sped up what was initially a slower song. Lead vocals: John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

 "A Hard Day's Night" (1964): Song featured in the Beatles' first film, with that title  taken from drummer Ringo's response to a comment that he looked tired: "Yea, I've had a hard day's night, you know." Lead vocals: John Lennon with Paul McCartney.

 "Yesterday" (1965): Wistful love song, featuring Paul McCartney with string quartet, an innovative idea for a rock and roll band that McCartney said was Martin's idea. It initially made him hesitate but ended as a "thrilling" experience. McCartney says the song became "one of the most recorded songs ever" with Elvis Presley, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra and many others offering their versions of it. Lead vocals: Paul McCartney.

 "Michelle" (1965): Some English speakers got their first taste of the French language with this tender love tune. Lead vocals: Paul McCartney.

 "In My Life" (1965): A confessional coming-of-age song brightened by the warm harmonies of Lennon and McCartney. Martin composed and performed the harpsichord interlude himself. Lead vocals: John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

 "Strawberry Fields Forever" (1967): An iconic if more complex Beatles with strings and horns. Two versions were recorded, and Martin was tasked with blending the two at John Lennon's request  no easy feat with analog tapes. Lead vocals: John Lennon.

 "With a Little Help From My Friends" (1967): Casually sung by drummer Ringo Starr on the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album.

 "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds" (1967): Said to have been inspired by a drawing by John Lennon's then-young son Julian of a classmate. Lennon told Rolling Stone in 1970 the images were inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland." Lead vocals: John Lennon.

 "All You Need Is Love" (1967): Perhaps the defining song of the Summer of Love. Martin introduced it with La Marseillaise, the French national anthem, and added a fragment of Glenn Miller's classic "In the Mood." He also played piano. Lead vocals: John Lennon.

 "Hey Jude" (1968): "Take a sad song and make it better," a universal message that struck a chord. With little notice, Martin found 40 musicians for the final recording, short of the 100 Paul McCartney requested. At over seven minutes long and recorded on experimental eight-track studio equipment, it was an unlikely hit for the Beatles' new Apple label. Lead vocals: Paul McCartney.

 "Here Comes The Sun" (1969): George Harrison's song of hope. Light vocal creation that he is quoted as saying was written during a long British winter at the home of Eric Clapton. Lead vocals: George Harrison.

 "Let It Be" (1970): The Beatles' final single before breaking up, produced by Martin. The song became the title track on the Beatles' last album, produced by Phil Spector. The lyrics' references to "times of trouble" and "comfort" had quick universal appeal in turbulent times, including among the Beatles, becoming something of a hymn. Lead vocals: Paul McCartney.

___

Sources: Billboard, TheBeatles.com, Rolling Stone, AllMusic.com, BeatlesBible.com.
In this March 2, 2016 photo, Sally Field poses for a portrait while promoting her new film "Hello, My Name Is Doris," at The Four Seasons in Los Angeles. (Photo by Casey Curry/Invision/AP)

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By JAKE COYLE, AP Film Writer

NEW YORK (AP)  It sounds like a misprint, but it's not: Sally Field has headlined just one movie in the last two decades.

The reasons why are many. Hollywood doesn't exactly churn out good parts for middle-aged or older actresses, even for beloved two-time Oscar winners. Field has also been drawn elsewhere, back to television, where she got her start in the 1960s on "Gidget" and "The Flying Nun." And then there's the fact that Field isn't much inclined to play, as she says, "the traditional mother thing."

"I'm certainly at a point in my life where I don't do anything that I don't want to do," Field says. "There are things that come to me, maybe the script is good but you don't really need me in this movie to stand at the door and say, 'Drive carefully.'"

"Hello, My Name Is Doris" is a reminder of what the movies have been missing out on. In the film, directed and co-written by Michael Showalter, Field stars as a spinsterish, daydreaming New York accountant who, after her mother dies, cautiously begins seeking out new experiences and pursuing  comically, awkwardly, sweetly  a much younger man: an art director at her Manhattan office played by Max Greenfield.

The film, which opens Friday, is a blend of tones  broadly funny, dramatically tender  and populated by veteran performers like Tyne Daly, Stephen Root and Peter Gallagher. Holding it all together is the ever-plucky Field, outfitted with two pairs of eyeglasses around her neck and a nest of hair, Field's intentionally messy version of a Brigitte Bardot doo.

Made for only about $1 million and shot in three weeks, it's an unusually indie project for Field, who jumped at the chance to play Doris. The hunt for such characters in a male-dominated industry, Field says, has been the story of her career.

"It's always been a struggle. It's not a new struggle to me," she said in a recent interview. "But certainly as I've gotten older, put it this way, it doesn't get easier."

Field has followed the rising outrage over gender equality in the movie industry with a mix of optimism and wariness. She's spent years watching women filmmakers fail to land big movies and female-led films be passed over by studios.

"Certainly you can't say that nothing has happened. There has been a lot of movement," says Field. "But it has been SO gradual. I've been here for going on 53 years. It's been so incredibly, incrementally gradual."

In person, Field, aside from looking stunning for a woman nearing 70, is disarmingly direct. Those who work with her say that straightforward matter-of-factness is how she approaches making a movie, too.

"As soon as you say anything to her that has to do with her status or stature, she'll just say 'Oh shut up!'" says Greenfield. "She doesn't let you treat her that way for more than half a second."

"Hello, My Name Is Doris" began as an eight-minute short by Laura Terruso, then a film student at New York University. Her teacher, Showalter, thought it was worth developing and the two stretched the story into a feature screenplay.

Showalter, an alum of the sketch comedy troupe "The State," considered Field the "pie-in-the-sky" casting option, and was flabbergasted when she agreed. Her presence and focus, he says, led the cast and crew to "raise their game to meet her."

"She walked into a situation  a tiny little indie movie with a bunch of young people wet behind the ears  and she came in so funny, so crisp and so brilliant," says Showalter. "She hasn't lost it one bit."

Field would seem to have little in common with the timid Doris, but she acknowledges having "terrible social anxiety." ''I am incredibly shy and I am sort of a notorious hermit," she says. "My sons push me, and I have a few friends that say, 'OK, time's up. We're coming to get you.'"

Field, who has three sons, splits her time between Los Angeles and New York, where she's expected to return to Broadway this fall in a production of Tennessee Williams' "The Glass Menagerie."

Most recently, Field was Oscar nominated for her Mary Todd in Steven Spielberg's "Lincoln" and spent five seasons in ABC's "Brothers and Sisters," winning an Emmy in its first season. Though there are numerous exceptions, Field's career has been largely populated by "regular" people: underdogs and strivers like her union-forming Norma Rae, her split-identity Sybil, her Texas widow of "Places in the Heart."

"I don't seem to be  even though I can play my version of it  like royalty," she says. "That's fine. There're lots of good characters to play in the working class world. You work within the vein that you were given when you were born."

Doris is one that will stick with her, she says, an inspiration for embracing the next stage of her life.

"She's a wonderful person to look at as you're entering your 70s," says Field. "As human beings, I think our challenge is: Will we be open to what's waiting for us to find out about ourselves?"
Nathan Solis/Record Searchlight

Keandre Thomas, 6 (center), hunts for eggs at the Second Annual Lawncrest Chapel Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday. Close to 400 people attended the Redding event, where children collected plastic eggs filled with prizes.

SHARE Nathan Solis/Record Searchlight Juliet Sigala, 5, picks up an egg at the Shasta Lake Lions Club Community Egg Hunt on Sunday morning, where about 300 people participated in the event. Nathan Solis/Record Searchlight Cheyenne Lane, 1, checks out her haul at Sunday's Easter Egg Hunt at Lawncrest Chapel, where children were sectioned into individual age groups. Nathan Solis/Record Searchlight Carson Foy, 3, from Southern California, paces the Easter Egg Hunt at Lawncrest Chapel during a visit to Redding.

By Nathan Solis of the Redding Record Searchlight

Bright and early the Easter egg hunters at Clair Engle Park were prepared with their baskets. Ranging in ages, from toddlers to pre-teens, the children edged their way to the cordoned off sections of the park before the hunt started. Bright colored eggs peeked from thick grass, in sand and some along walkways.

Families shouted at 9:00 a.m. as children were signaled by organizers to start searching for eggs hidden at the park in the city of Shasta Lake.

At 9:04 a.m. all the eggs were collected and the hunt was over.

Yezenia Sigala and her daughter, Juliet 5, and son Ezra, 2, from Redding arrived early to the park with Melanie Nelson and her daughter, Makayla, 3, to collect eggs.

"It was over in a matter of minutes," Nelson said.

Organizers estimate about 300 people attended the morning event organized by the Shasta Lake Lions Club, which also hosted a free pancake breakfast afterwards. It was just one of numerous Easter egg hunts and other activities held Sunday throughout the North State.

About 3,000 eggs were hardboiled, dyed and hidden throughout the park and at least 40 golden eggs were collected by children and brought back to Ed Cuellar, chairman of the hunt, who handed back one-dollar Susan B. Anthony coins.

"You want to give them a special treat for when they find those rare ones," said Cuellar, who added this is the 47th year the Easter hunt has taken place in the city of Shasta Lake.

Later in the day at Lawncrest Chapel's Second Annual East Egg Hunt the crowds swelled to close to 500, as the afternoon weather cooperated. Last year organizers said rain interrupted the hunt, but this year Sunday afternoon was full of crowds spread across the chapel's lawn on E. Cypress for several organized hunts.

Carson Foy, 3, along with his brother, Jackson, was visiting Redding from Southern California to see their grandmother, Karen Lawrence.

"They've had a good one this year. They took to collecting naturally," said Lawrence.

Amy Ross and her son, Mason, 4, of Redding stood at the end of a line of about 120 children as organizers dropped a bright ribbon cordoning off the egg hunt area.

"It's something that we've been looking forward to and activities like this are nice, because you're outdoors and get to interact with the community," Ross said before her son and all the children rushed into the field.

Aside from the gleeful discoveries of children finding stickers, toys and other fun things in the eggs, there were also the ones who for some reason were not fast enough to pick up any eggs.

Plenty of children cried. Parents tried to console, and made promises of other places they could go to make up for the lack of Easter treats.

Karen Karnatz, general manager at Lawncrest, walked the fields with a basket full of eggs and toys, asking parents and children, "Did you get anything?"

She banked about a hundred plastic eggs and handed them out to all the children who might have been on the verge of a tantrum.

Karnatz said, "I see a sad child and toss an egg near them so they can find it or I hand it to them. We learned our lesson last year."
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Anderson Police are searching today for the driver of a reportedly stolen sport utility vehicle who crashed into a parked car during a high-speed chase and who was then able to successfully run away.

Police said an officer spotted a stolen Volvo SUV around 10:30 p.m. leaving a Spruce Street apartment complex.

The officer had been called to the apartment complex for a report of narcotics violations.

As the officer and SUV driver passed each other in the parking lot, the driver of the SUV failed to yield to police, officers said.

Police said the driver then tried to evade capture by driving at high speeds through a residential neighborhood, nearly causing a collision at the intersection of Spruce Street and Pinion Avenue.

The driver, who eventually crashed into a parked car in the 1300 block of Jeffries Avenue, ran away and remains at large, police said.

Police did not give a description of the suspect, but ask those who might information about the drivers identity to call the Police Department.


Voter guide: Race previews, what to know before you vote

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These are tumultuous times for California schools, affecting how they are financed, what they teach and whether educators are accountable for results.

Local school officials are three years into the local control funding formula (LCFF), which gives them a lot more money and flexibility, but also seeks to close the "achievement gap" separating poor and "English learner" students from advantaged classmates.

Districts are still struggling to write local control accountability plans to guide how the LCFF money is to be spent. Policy Analysis for Public Education, an education think tank, has concluded that "implementation of the LCFF is creating an uneasy tension between local control and compliance that threatens to undermine the vision."

It's evident, too, that a 56 percent increase in K-12 school spending over the last five years  up $23 billion per year  has not solved all problems. Twenty California school districts were listed by the state this month as being in serious financial distress, including Los Angeles Unified, the state's largest system, and those in San Diego and Oakland.

As state officials address LCFF discord, they are also exacerbating it. State schools Superintendent Tom Torlakson last year countermanded his own department and told districts they could spend money meant for underachieving students on salary increases  a boon to the California Teachers Association, which helped Torlakson win re-election in 2014.

Meanwhile, the state Board of Education, appointed by Gov. Jerry Brown, is trying to draft a statewide accountability system tied to the LCFF and a new federal education law that requires more specific measures than state officials and the union wanted.

It's caught between demands by the CTA and local school officials for non-punitive "collaboration" and those of an "equity coalition" of civil rights and education reform groups for tight monitoring of achievement gap closure with consequences for failure.

Reformers note that the lack of a school grading system has already given LA Unified and other districts a rationale for rejecting parental efforts to take control of low-performing schools.

And then there's Common Core, new and more rigorous learning standards that California has fully embraced.

Initial academic tests tied to Common Core found low achievement levels, and the state school board hired think tank WestEd to survey how it is being implemented.

It found that while most educators praise Common Core's relevance, there's a sharp attitudinal divide. Administrators generally rated implementation as good or excellent, but many teachers disagreed, saying they hadn't been given sufficient training to make Common Core a reality.

One issue, raised during a recent state school board meeting, is whether the state should aggressively intervene on Common Core or continue the hands-off attitude Brown calls "subsidiarity" and trust local school officials to resolve issues.

These are high-stakes struggles, and not only financial. Six-plus million kids  and California's future  are guinea pigs for these political experiments.

Email Dan Walters at dwalters@sacbee.com.
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Martin Shkreli, the poster child for vulture capitalists preying on the sick, is getting a run for his money.

In some ways, it's even more outrageous. While Shrkeli bought life-saving drugs and jacked up their prices, Valeant Pharmaceuticals is profiting from the drug typically used by terminally ill patients in physician-assisted suicide.

As KQED reported this week, Quebec-based Valeant purchased Seconal last February  a month after California legislators proposed an aid-in-dying bill  and immediately doubled the cost for a lethal dose to $3,000.

When the law takes effect June 9, Medi-Cal and most private insurers plan to pay the tab. But that will unnecessarily take money from other patients and treatments. Patients without coverage will have to pay the exorbitant price or find a pharmacist willing and able to compound a drug cocktail that goes for about $400.

The usual justification for raising a drug's price  high research and development costs  doesn't apply in this case. Seconal, also known by its generic name secobarbital, was formulated some 80 years ago as a sleeping pill. It became the go-to drug for doctors in Oregon, where the nation's first physician-assisted suicide law took effect in 1997. A lethal dose (about 100 capsules) went for less than $200 in 2009, then increased to $1,500 before Valeant bought it.

A possible explanation is the lack of competition from generics, one of the factors cited in a statement from Valeant to KQED. Advocacy groups aren't buying it.

"It is morally reprehensible for a pharmaceutical company to artificially jack up the price of aid-in-dying medication that is no longer patented to take advantage of a relatively few terminally ill adults who need the medication to relieve unbearable suffering at the end of life," Kat West, national policy director for Compassion & Choices, said in a statement to The Sacramento Bee's editorial board.

Shrkeli defended his price spikes and smirked his way through a congressional hearing. But he got his comeuppance in December, when he was arrested for securities fraud and booted from two companies.

Karma may already be biting Valeant. It's under congressional investigation for its pricing, its stock price has plummeted by some 85 percent over the past year and Monday, its CEO resigned in an accounting scandal.

The pharma industry should take notice. Companies can make a quick buck from raising drug prices, but eventually it will cost them big time.___

The Sacramento Bee
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Some people change with time and some don't. Hillary Clinton has not changed. She's been at the highest level in Washington, D.C., politics for 25-plus years with numerous opportunities to see the best and worst of D.C. politics. And plenty of time to see the results of good and bad choices, and how those events played out. Yet, she and President Bill Clinton frequently chose the more nebulous path. From White Water, the death of Vince Foster and Bill Clinton's impeachment for lying about a scandalous sexual affair with a White House intern, they've made many poor choices.

The lessons of Watergate taught most of us that attempts to cover up can be worse than the original crime. Speaking of Watergate, Hillary Rodham Clinton was a staff lawyer in the investigation of President Richard Nixon. Another lawyer on the investigation, Jerry Zeifman, has claimed she was fired for lying, although multiple sources dispute that he was ever her supervisor.

More recently, Secretary of State Clinton claimed many times that Ambassador Chris Stevens and staff had adequate security and that Libya was stable. After Stevens and three others were murdered, she and President Barack Obama blamed it on an Internet video. She repeated this fabrication to the families of the dead Americans while standing next to their coffins. She went on to say that "...we will get this guy." Now we know that emails recovered from her private server that she tried to scrub indicate that the Internet video had nothing to do with the incident. Again she lied.

There are many more incidents. I sincerely hope the FBI will investigate the Clinton Foundation. If it does, Americans likely will cringe in embarrassment. While flying around conducting U.S. State Department business, foreign governments were contributing to her and Bill's foundation. To me, that looks like quid pro quo and it's unethical behavior in these cases.

I was only 7 years old when John F. Kennedy implored Americans to: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." Apply this maxim to Hillary Clinton and what do see in this woman's character? You must do this because after 25 years she has not looked at herself critically. Character counts when you want to be president of the United States. Moreover, she has no one to blame but herself for the mess she's in.

This not a "vast right wing conspiracy" as she claims. This is simply all her past bad decisions catching up with her.

Dan Rice lives in Mount Shasta.
News / National

by Stephen Jakes

A Member of Parliament (MP) for Marondera Central, Lawrence Katsiru, (Zanu PF) reportedly had a meeting with Zanu-PF youths and allegedly told them to prepare to deal with anyone who joins ZimPF.Zimbabwe Peace Project reported that however, Katsiru denied the allegations saying that is nonsensical."It is full of lies. I enjoy good relations with the opposition; and there have been many meetings in Marondera and rest of Mashonaland East by the opposition at which there have been no disturbances," he said.ZPP said on 26 February 2016, a Zanu-PF coordinator for Ward 11 in Marondera West had an argument with a member of the women's league over leadership."The coordinator had said the president was "hiding behind a finger" while major decisions to rule were being made by the First Lady. The women's league member then threatened the coordinator for holding these views," ZPP said."In Marondera Central Zanu-PF supporters Gift Midzi and Garikai Tonderai are allegedly threatening Itai Nzondo (not real name) who is a former MDC-T member who has defected to ZimPF. The two reportedly told Nzondo that he is a sell-out for choosing to work with Joyce Mujuru. The threats started on 27 February 2016. The Zanu-PF supporters are said to be moving around the area saying MDC-T is better that People First."
It is quite likely that the Pakistanis are cleverly using the Jadhav card to derail the outcome of the JIT process, says Rajeev Sharma.

IMAGE: Gwadar port in Pakistan's Balochistan province

It is not often that Pakistan claims to have arrested 'an Indian spy' -- and that too someone who has been a retired middle-level officer in the Indian Navy.

The queer case of Kulbhushan Jadhav, who sought premature retirement from the Indian Navy years ago, fits the bill. Jadhav was arrested earlier this month, allegedly from Pakistan's insurgency-hit province of Balochistan. The Pakistani agencies quickly flaunted his Indian passport that he was allegedly carrying on him.

The Pakistani establishment played up the event so much so that Pakistan's powerful army chief General Raheel Sharif raised the issue with visiting Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and discussed with him the problems Pakistan faces on account of India's external intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW)'s alleged involvement in fomenting trouble in Balochistan.

Equally queer was the Indian response. India did not deny the existence of Kulbhushan Jadhav, a fundamental alibi any nation takes in the event of alleged espionage. Clearly, India could not have obfuscated Jadhav's identity as he had served as a commander in the Indian Navy before his premature retirement.

India's official response is that while Jadhav was indeed a retired naval officer, he has had nothing to do with the Indian government since his premature retirement.

The Pakistani case is much different: That Jadhav had joined R&AW after premature retirement from the navy and was deployed in Iran as a R&AW agent.

The alleged circumstantial evidence offered by Pakistan against Jadhav was a bit too much as India strongly refuted the Pakistani allegations. In any case, the Pakistani version is full of loopholes.

If Jadhav was indeed deployed as a R&AW agent in Iran, as Pakistan has alleged, what was he doing in Balochistan?

Why should he make himself a sitting duck target for capture in an enemy State even if one believes Pakistan's version for a minute that he was a spy and was on an espionage mission in the restive province?

Furthermore, it is a bit too much to digest the Pakistani theory that he was travelling with a valid Indian passport.

Various accounts have emerged as to how Jadhav, an officer with the equivalent rank of a lieutenant colonel in the army, had become a businessman and even owned a small ship as part of his business activities, though everything is quite opaque about Jadhav's current profile and what business he was doing since his premature retirement.

Pakistan does not prove anything by claiming that Jadhav was arrested in Balochistan. It is quite probable that he was compromised and lured to Balochistan where he was eventually arrested by the Pakistanis.

Another compelling and probable theory is that Jadhav may been compromised and arrested from another location and his arrest was shown from Balochistan.

Whatever may be the case, it is quite clear that he was set up big time. Or else, how does one explain that he was in possession of an Indian passport? Would a spy travel to an enemy country with a valid passport?

India has sought consular access to Jadhav, but has not been successful so far. A key diplomatic source based in Pakistan told me that getting consular access to an arrested person -- and that too someone arrested on charges of espionage -- is not easy. It may take months for Indian diplomats to meet Jadhav.

This is the primer on la affaire Kulbhushan Jadhav, but the real story may well be something different and the real objectives even more vastly different.

Pakistan has raised the Jadhav episode just before the Pakistani Joint Investigation Team set foot on Indian soil. The Pakistani JIT's arrival in India on Sunday, March 27, which includes Inter Services Intelligence Lieutenant Colonel Tanvir Ahmed, to probe the January 2-5 terror attack on the Pathankot airbase is unprecedented and a potential game changer in the India-Pakistan context.

It is quite likely that the Pakistanis are cleverly using the Jadhav card to derail the outcome of the JIT process.

That said, the least the Indian government can do and must do is to secure Jadhav's release unharmed.

Rajeev Sharma is an independent journalist and strategic analyst who tweets @Kishkindha
After Arunachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, discontent is brewing among Congress MLAs in Manipur. Aditi Phadnis analyses the situation.

In 2014, though the Bharatiya Janata Party-led alliance posted a stunning Lok Sabha victory, the Congress drew comfort from the fact that it had a government in eight states.

In the past few weeks, the party has seen two states slip out of its grasp and is fighting for survival in a third. After Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand , another Congress-ruled state, went under Presidents Rule on Sunday, hours before the Harish Rawat government was to prove its majority.

Here's an analysis of the situation in all the three states: Arunachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Manipur.

Arunachal Pradesh: Government toppled from within

The new chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh and chief of the People's Party of Arunachal, the country's newest political party, formed barely a month before, is an interesting man.

Kalikho Pul, left, has pulled off the seemingly impossible task of breaking the ruling 47-member Congress Legislature Party in the state assembly (which had 60 members), headed by Nabam Tuki. And, with the help of 11 BJP and two independent legislators, forming a government of rebel Congress MLAs.

Pul became a rebel after he was dismissed from the Tuki government in mid-2015. He was the finance minister and was shifted to health. When he publicly criticised the way the government was handling its finances, he was dropped from the council of ministers and also expelled from the Congress.

Tuki was, at the time, facing a problem of plenty. With every second legislator a Congressman, it was hard for him to distribute offices.

Two legislators fell out at first. This sounded alarm bells for Tuki, who became strict, verging on the dictatorial. He took signed resignation letters from MLAs, promising them these would stay with him. He controlled the legislative assembly with the help of his cousin Nebam Rebhia, whom he appointed speaker.

Tuki relied on the fact that the S R Bommai judgement on defection and the testing of majority was clear -- the majority of any government needed to be tested on the floor of the House, not in the Raj Bhavan. As long as he had his man as speaker, he could control the House.

Pul's first task, then, was to topple the speaker and replace him. He opted to work on the deputy speaker and sought to introduce a motion in the assembly that argued the speaker was being dictatorial in his conduct and needed to be replaced.

When Congress MLAs saw that Pul had half a chance of succeeding in his mission, many of them decided to back him.

It is here that the governor's role becomes crucial. The governor was contacted and told to bring forward the date of convening the assembly: If the government had to be toppled, speed was of the essence.

Using his power of discretion (which cannot be questioned in a court of law) Governor J P Rajkhowa advanced the date of the assembly's convening.

The Tuki government cried foul and went to court.

In a letter to the governor, Tuki asked him to work according to the Constitution. 'The actions of directly calling commissioners and secretaries of various departments to Raj Bhavan and asking them to directly report to the governor has diluted the constitutional provisions, wherein it is required to take any report through the chief minister or the council of ministers,' Tuki's letter said.

Simultaneously, the governor ordered that a session of the assembly be convened.

When MLAs went to the assembly premises, they found it locked. The assembly was convened in a nearby hotel and the speaker replaced.

The new speaker allowed a motion of no-confidence to be passed against the government. With that done, it was a matter of electing a new legislature party head. It was made easier because MLAs loyal to Tuki boycotted the 'session' and BJP members supported the motion. And, Pul became CM on February 19.

Uttarakhand: Adversaries from own house

When Raj Babbar was named the Congress candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat from the state, former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna, left, expecting to be the partys nominee, was very disappointed. For sometime, he'd been trying to rehabilitate himself, after the government headed by him was held to be a big failure in dealing with floods in the state.

It had resulted in Bahuguna being replaced with Harish Rawat.

The denouement came amid chatter that Bahuguna had been hobnobbing with the BJP in the legislative assembly over money bills. As Speaker Govind Singh Kunjwal called for passage of the budgetary motion in the 70-member assembly, where 68 were present and voting, Bahuguna and eight other Congress MLAs demanded a division (counting) of votes. The speaker rejected the demand and adjourned the House till March 28.

Immediately, all the nine Congress MLAs joined BJP members in demanding dismissal of the Rawat government, saying the CM had lost his majority. They also sat on a dharna in the assembly.

As the bill that had been 'defeated' was the appropriations bill (or the budget) the government should have resigned straightaway.

But the speaker deemed the bill passed through voice vote, although 35 of the 68 MLAs present had asked for a division, that is, requested that the votes be counted.

This was the beginning of the collapse of what was essentially a house of cards, with the BJP holding the aces.

Actually, a BJP MLA had, weeks before the budget session, defected to the Congress and even before the speaker could invoke the anti-defection law to expel him, he was made chairman of a board. The BJP then decided to get its own back on Rawat. It found a useful ally in Bahuguna who was already in the rebellion mode.

Rawat then rushed to Delhi and returned to Dehradun the same day, presumably on the strength of some assurances from the high command. He was advised to delay seeking a vote of confidence.

Earlier, some party leaders had tried to defuse the crisis by accepting most of the dissidents demands. However, several BJP leaders claimed that 12 Congress MLAs were in touch with them; the BJP has 28 MLAs.

State Congress chief Kishore Upadhayay had claimed the ruling party MLAs were being offered hefty sums of money. A purported sting operation gave heft to the charge. A few days later, the conduits between the BJP and the Congress -- party general secretary Anil Gupta and Vijay Bahugunas son Saket -- were thrown out of the party.

The BJP MLAs were spirited away to Jaipur, presumably to keep them 'safe' from allurement. For the moment, the assembly has been kept in suspended animation -- which means the governor will administer the state. But, for the BJP, even if it cannot form the government immediately, it is a major victory.

It has been able to topple yet another government, purely by leveraging internal dissidence in the Congress.

Manipur: Restive pot simmers

Nothing in Manipur is as it seems. At the time of forming his ministry in 2012 for a third consecutive term, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, left, assured the Congress Legislature Party members that at the end of two and a half years, there would be a major reshuffle to accommodate some of them.

Under the statutory provisions, in a 60-member assembly, the chief minister is allowed a ministry of 12. To circumvent this rule, some prominent legislators were appointed parliamentary secretaries with Cabinet rank.

However, dissidents wanted more. Ibobi Singh found this was easier said than done.

The restive legislators said they wanted ministers whose performance was sub-optimal and those perceived as corrupt to be dropped from the council of ministers.

They had another condition -- that the one man, one post policy be applied strictly. Their target was Gaikhangam, both a minister and the state party chief.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi met representatives of the 25 dissident Congress legislators and decided the party did not want a repeat of Arunachal in Manipur.

The dissidents have made it known that they would change loyalty, either by joining the BJP or forming a new party of their own, if their demands are not met.

The BJP has only recently set down roots in Manipur. The president of its state unit, Thounaojam Chaoba, has been saying a large number of Congress members are seeking admission. Chaoba is strengthened by the fact that for the first time, the BJP won two seats in by-elections in November 2015.

This is not the only challenge to Ibobi Singhs government. In the tension between Naga and non-Naga tribes in the state, Gaikhangam was caught in the crossfire. As deputy CM and home minister, he reportedly endorsed police action against the Naga Students Front.

Later, realising this could become a politically volatile issue, he took action against the police personnel but the damage was done. Nongthombam Biren, Congress MLA, called a meeting of Naga MLAs at his residence and passed a resolution demanding action against Gaikhangam.

In the legislative assembly of 60 members, the ruling Congress party has 48, the Trinamool Congress has five, Naga Peoples Front has four, the BJP has two and the Nationalist Congress Party and the Lok Janshakti Party one each.

If 25 Congress MLAs revolt and join hands with the smaller groups, they can form a government or clear the no-confidence motion against the government.

The situation has not reached that point yet.

The Congress high command has summoned Ibobi Singh and Gaikhangam twice to Delhi in the past week. But, the BJP is beginning to say now the government has lost the confidence of the assembly.

Combined with Naga/non-Naga tensions, the situation could escalate unless Governor V Shanmuganathan (holding additional charge of Manipur along with Meghalaya after the death in office of incumbent V Syed) intervenes.

Either way, the Manipur government is high on the vulnerability index of state governments that can be toppled.
52 world leaders, including Narendra Modi, will attend this week's Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, DC.

Obama will meet separately only with the Chinese president.

Former senior RA&W official Jayadeva Ranade discusses the likely agenda at the superpowers' meeting.

IMAGE: US President Barack Obama with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the climate summit in Paris, November 30, 2015. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

The importance accorded to the US-China relationship by both countries will be visible at the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington on March 31-April 1, 2016, when US President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet separately.

That will be the only bilateral meeting between Obama and any of the 52 world leaders attending the Summit.

Some US analysts interpret this as 'a sign of respect for Xi and an indication of how important President Obama considers the US relationship with China,' but the campaigning for the US Presidential elections that is underway will limit the benefits that either side can expect from the meeting.

For China, the key items on the agenda would be: The South China Sea, Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula and the ballistic missile defence talks between the US and South Korea. Pakistan's nuclear weapons development programme could also appear on the agenda. Xi will push for acceptance of the 'new type of big power relations.'

Obama is expected to mainly focus on cyber espionage and cyber theft, the South China Sea and disputed claims with the Philippines, tougher economic sanctions against North Korea, and human rights.

In the weeks prior to the March summit, both China and the US have signalled their areas of special interest. Beijing has indicated a willingness to use force to protect its interests and at the recent National People's Congress reasserted sovereignty over the South China Sea.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters on March 7, 2016, on the sidelines of a discussion at the 4th Plenum at the 12th NPC, that 'The South China Sea situation is pretty stable. We certainly don't want some countries coming here to show off their military prowess, as this would not help maintain stability in the area.'

Luo Baoming, the Communist Party secretary of Hainan province, highlighted China's historical claim to the South China Sea, saying Hainan's 100,000 fishermen have documented proof of their navigation routes in the South China Sea dating back 600 years!

Earlier, in February, the People's Daily quoted the People's Liberation Army's new South Theatre Commander General Wang Jiaocheng as saying his 'foremost mission is to safeguard rights and interests in the South China Sea' and that 'no country will be allowed to use any excuse or action to threaten China's sovereignty and safety.'

China meanwhile maintains its aggressive posture in the South China Sea with Chinese vessels regularly encroaching territorial waters of countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The US, which has been closely monitoring developments in the area, also timed exhibition of its interest in the South China Sea with the NPC session. It despatched a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier accompanied by two guided-missile destroyers, a guided-missile cruiser and a supply ship to operate in the eastern part of the South China Sea since March 1, 2016.

'Blue Ridge', the floating headquarters of the Japan-based US 7th Fleet, left on a port visit to the Philippines, reflecting Washington's concern about how China might react to a decision by the international tribunal favouring the Philippines' claims. There is uncertainty whether, in addition to formally rejecting such a decision, China will militarily challenge those claims.

The issue is complicated because the Philippines is a US ally. China has taken note of the US action. 'If you take a look at the matter closely,'NPC spokeswoman Fu Ying said, 'it's the US sending the most advanced aircraft and military vessels to the South China Sea.'

Taiwan is the other issue of concern to Beijing, especially following the pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party's resounding election victory.

While Beijing has protested the proposed US arms sale to Taiwan, Xi put forward 'three new propositions' regarding Taiwan at the NPC:

i. the 'common fate proposition' (that people living on either side of the Taiwan Straits are blood brothers sharing the same fate and family inseparable because blood is thicker than water;

ii. 'the proposition of the 1992 consensus being a political basis' (that the 1992 consensus clearly defines the nature of cross-strait relations and on it hinges the peaceful development of cross-strait relations);

iii. 'the proposition of containing Taiwan independence' (that the mainland will resolutely stop any form of behaviour having to do with Taiwan independence or separatism and safeguard the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity).

There was resonance of these at the NPC sessions. Hongkong's Ming Pao newspaper assessed it as a tough red-line drawn by Xi Jinping to restrain Taiwan's incoming President.

There is closer alignment of views on the issue of denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi indicated a slight shift in position at the recent NPC, saying so long as there are nuclear weapons in the Korean Peninsula there is no stability.

Wang also referred to China's relations with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, routinely described in earlier years 'as lips-to-teeth', as 'normal State-to-State relations.'

There are, however, limits as to the concessions China will make regarding a country with which it has long had close ties and for which Mao Zedong lost his son. A senior Chinese military interlocutor separately indicated that while a Korean Peninsula with nuclear weapons is not in China's interest, economic sanctions are also not helpful.

Pointing to the discussions on the ballistic missile defence between US and South Korea as a cause for concern, the official said it will affect China's deterrence and could prompt China to revise its nuclear 'no first use' policy.

The US and Western countries have recently upgraded human rights as an issue in discussions with China. On March 10, coinciding with the Dalai Lama's flight from Tibet and the Tibetan uprising against Chinese occupation, the US and Canada jointly supported a statement criticising human rights in China at an event attended by the Dalai Lama at the Geneva International Institute.

Of particular interest to India will be the meeting between Xi and Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines of the Nuclear Summit. There is credible indication that Xi will discuss 'extending diplomatic or other substantive support' to Pakistan to counter US insistence that Pakistan go slow on development of its tactical nuclear weapons.

US pressure is reportedly anticipated against the backdrop of the worsening nuclear crisis in the Korean Peninsula.

While the US Presidential elections limit Obama's capacity to drive tough negotiations, Xi is unlikely to yield ground on issues like the South China Sea or the Korean Peninsula. He will neither relent on human rights issues, where he can claim to have made concessions by permitting a US Congressional visit to Tibet last year and prohibiting protests by pro-Shugden groups against the Dalai Lama during his visits abroad.

Economic issues such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the 'One Belt, One Road' will undoubtedly be discussed with agreement to keep the relationship in good repair.

Jayadeva Ranade -- a former Additional Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India -- is President, Centre for China Analysis and Strategy.
The sole suspect charged over last week's Brussels attacks was released on Monday following a lack of evidence linking him to the carnage, Belgian prosecutors said.

"The indications that led to the arrest of Faycal Cheffou were not substantiated by the ongoing inquiry. As a result, the subject has been released by the examining magistrate," the federal prosecutor's office said in a statement, without giving further details.

Belgian media had identified the man as Faycal Cheffou who claimed to be a freelance journalist.

Cheffou was charged on Saturday with "taking part in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder".

A source close to the inquiry previously told AFP that prosecutors were looking into the theory that he was the third man seen in CCTV footage alongside two suicide bombers at Zaventem airport.

Belgian police earlier on Monday released some of the CCTV images in a bid to identify the suspect.

In the video, a man in a hat and white jacket is seen pushing a trolley with a large bag through the departure hall next to bombers Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui.
Pakistani Taliban on Monday said the horrific suicide bombing at a popular park in Lahore was targeted at Christians celebrating Easter, even as the death toll in the massacre rose to 72 including 29 children.

IMAGE: Family members mourn the death of a relative, who was killed in a blast that happened outside a public park on Sunday, in Lahore. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

Three more people today succumbed to their injuries raising the death toll to 72, Punjab Emergency Services Rescue team spokesperson Deeba Shahnaz said.

She said the condition of 26 out of the over 300 injured was very critical. Most of the injured are children.

At least 29 children and eight women are among the dead, according to the data released by different city hospitals. At least 20 Christians are also among the dead.

A large number of people were present at the crowded Gulshan-e-IqbalPark of Allama Iqbal Town when a powerful blast took place on Sunday evening.

A large number of Christian families were present in the park due to Easter Sunday.

The brutal attack by a suicide bomber -- believed to be in his 20s -- was claimed by the Jamaatul Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan.

It was targeted at Christians celebrating Easter, Ehsanullah Ehsan, a spokesman for the group, said.

We have carried out this attack to target the Christians who were celebrating Easter. Also this is a message to the Pakistani prime minister that we have arrived in Punjab, he said.

The Punjab government, however, denied Jamaatul Ahrars claim that the bombing was aimed exclusively at Christians.

Christians were not the specific target in the blast. It was not the park meant for Christians only. The targets were Pakistanis, said Lahore District Coordination Officer retired Captain Muhammad Usman.

It was a suicide attack. A suicide bomber blew himself inside the park near the children play area, Deputy Inspector General Lahore Police Dr Haider Asharaf said.

Some 10 to 15 kilogramme explosive might have been used in the blast, he said.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Monday morning visited Jinnah Hospital and inquired about the health of the injured patients.

IMAGE: Rescue workers move a body from the site of a blast outside a public park in Lahore. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

Why terrorists are killing us, an injured child asked the PM from his hospital bed.

The prime minister directed the health authorities to ensure best treatment for the injured. He vowed that the perpetrators of the Lahore attack would not escape punishment.

A family of a child at the JinnahHospital protested Sharifs visit.

Police did not allow our relatives to enter the hospital because the prime minister was visiting it. If the rulers cannot provide security to their citizens they at least should not create problems for them in the name of security, said Rabia Bibi, who lost her two children in the bombing and third suffered injuries.

Ashraf said an FIR has been registered under anti-terrorism act with murder and attempted murder along with other charges being slapped against unidentified suspects.

Police have gathered the limbs of the suspected suicide bomber and sent it for forensic test.

The suspect has been identified as Muhammad Yousuf of south Punjabs Muzaffarghar district, an official of the Punjab police said.

He said the suspected bomber, believed to be in his 20s, entered the park and blew himself up near the swings.

Police have arrested five family members of the suspect from south Punjab and shifted them to undisclosed location for interrogation.

Yes we have taken some family members of the suspect into custody as part of our investigation into the matter, Ashraf said.

In a late night operation, Lahore police took more than 20 suspected people into custody as well. Most of the arrested persons were found without their identity documents.

The government has announced three-day mourning. It has also closed all public parks for indefinite period in Lahore.

All Lahores markets and business centres remained closed on Monday.

Private schools were also closed to condemn the attack and express solidarity with the victims.
Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar on Monday compared the alleged onslaught on varsities with Gujarat riots alleging both of them were carried out "with support" from state machinery even as he stressed that there is a fundamental difference between "emergency" and "fascism".

Asserting that there is a difference between 2002 riots and 1984 Sikh massacre Kanhaiya alleged that Gujarat violence was carried out through state machinery while the other was caused due to mob frenzy.

"There is difference between emergency and fascism. During emergency, goons of only one party were engaged into goondaism, in this (fascism) entire state machinery is resorting to goondaism. There is difference between riots of 2002 and 1984 Sikh riots. There is a fundamental difference between a mob killing a common man and massacring people through state machinery. Therefore, the threat of communal fascism we are faced with today, there is an attack being launched on universities, because like Hitler, Modi ji doesn't have support from intellectuals in India. No intellectual is defending Modi regime," he added.

Noting the present time is an era of Islamophobia, Kanhaiya underscored a need for understanding history first before reaching a conclusion on any issue.

"Today it's an era of Islamophobia. Leave aside the words of terrorism and terrorist. The moment these words will come to your mind, imprints of face of a Muslim person will be there in your mind. This is Islamophobia.

"Connotations, meaning of a word change. Hence, it is important for us to understand history before we reach to conclusion on anything," he said.

Kanhaiya was addressing the gathering during a panel discussion on "Voices of Azaadi" during the "Jashne-e-azaadi" festival which was organised to celebrate the birth anniversary of the late historian Professor Bipan Chandra.

The celebration comes at a time when JNU students have kick started a "nationalism and azaadi debate" across the country after it came under attack for an event on campus against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru during which anti-national slogans were allegedly raised.

Kanhaiya and two more students -- Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya -- were arrested in a sedition case over the event and are out on bail now.

Umar said though they have been released from the confines of Tihar jail but they continue to face threats.

"A very dangerous situation is unfolding before our eyes for all of us. Today also I read a news report which said before April 8, some person will come to JNU and shoot down me and Kanhaiya. While three of us maybe 'azad' from the confines of

Tihar, in this larger prison that our country is becoming, there is a great deal of danger to our lives. Therefore, there remains great restrictions on our Azadi. Our azadi to move, go to field, go out with friends and things like that," he said.

Referring to JNU as a "carnival for demands of freedom", Anirban threw light on the slogans raised in and out of the campus ever since the controversial event took place on February 9.

"The debate here is not about national versus anti-national but between azaadi slogans and that of bharat mata ki jai.

"Everybody thinks that the azadi slogans come from the KashmirValley but the truth is it did not emanate either from Kashmir or from JNU but from Kamla Bhasin's movement demanding freedom from patriarchy," he said.

The programme which was divided in four sessions saw historians including Irfan Habib, Mrdiula Mukherjee and Aditya Mukherjee, deliberating upom lives and works of Bipan Chandra.

While Habib spoke of his association and differences on certain points in history with Chandra, Mukherjee spoke about his intellectual journey.
A local court on Monday granted bail to 25 students and two faculty members of Hyderabad Central University who were arrested in connection with the violence on the campus last week during which the vice chancellor's official residence was ransacked.

The students and the two faculty members were released on their submission of sureties of Rs 5,000 each.

The court also directed them to appear before Gachibowli Station House Officer once in a week.

The prosecution informed the XXV Metropolitan Magistrate court at Miyapur Court Complex in Hyderabad that the situation (law and order) is under control on HCU campus and they are not going to oppose the bail applications of all the 27 accused.

"In view of the career of the students we have not filed counter. We have left the court to decide the case on merit. The arrest were made by the police in order to control the situation (on March 22)...without having any personal grudges against anyone", the public prosecutor said.

The defence counsel urged the court to grant bail contending that the allegations which were levelled against the accused are absolutely 'vague' and there is no material to keep them in further detention, and hence, requested the court to grant them bail on personal bonds.

A group of students, who were opposing Prof Appa Rao Podile's return as the VC after a two-month leave following the row over research scholar Rohith Vemula's suicide in a university hostel room, had allegedly vandalised his residence and pelted police with stones on March 22.

Later, police resorted to lathicharge and arrested 25 of them, beside two faculty members. All of them were lodged in Cherlapally central prison in Hyderabad.

Cases were booked on charges of damage to public property, trespass, preventing government officials from performing their duties, and other relevant sections of IPC in connection with the violence.
Pakistan on Monday launched a massive military operation in Punjab province in the wake of the deadly Taliban suicide bombing in Lahore, conducting raids and making several arrests.

Intelligence agencies along with army and rangers personnel carried out a series of operations in different parts of Punjab, the country's most populous province, a day after the suicide blast at a popular park in which 72 people, mostly women and children, were killed.

"A number of suspected terrorists and facilitators have been arrested during the five raids which were conducted in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan after the Lahore suicide explosion," army media wing Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Lt Gen Asim Bajwa said earlier but did not officially say that a widespread operation had been launched similar to the ones underway in the country's northwest and Karachi.

He added that a "huge cache of arms and ammunition" were also recovered by security officials.

There has long been a demand for launching a military operation in southern part of Punjab province because of the presence of militants hideouts there.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Gen Raheel Sharif separately chaired high-level security meetings to review the situation and directed law enforcement agencies including army and rangers to launch a comprehensive operation in Punjab province.

The police were also able to identify the Lahore suicide bomber as Yousuf, son of Ghulam Farid, a resident of Muzzafargarh in southern Punjab.

He was believed to be between 20-25 years old. A sketch prepared with the help of eye-witnesses showed him with beard.

During the meeting, Sharif was briefed by heads of law enforcement and intelligence agencies on different leads-based progress regarding yesterday's blast at the park, which was comparatively more crowded due to the Easter holiday.

The park is located in a posh-locality in Lahore, the hometown of the premier.

Sharif said: "Terrorists and their facilitators will eventually meet their logical end. We have to win the war (against terror). Coward terrorists are targeting innocent children and women."

The whole nation would have to be united in the face of terrorism, he said, adding that the provinces should speed up intelligence-based operations against terrorists.

"We must take this war to the doors of terrorist outfits before they are able to hit our innocent countrymen.

"We will not let terrorists play with the lives of innocent people," he said and directed the intelligence agencies have better coordination with each other to prevent terror attacks.

"Our resolve to fight terrorism as a nation and as a government is getting stronger... Our goal is not only to eliminate terror infrastructure but also the extremist mind-set, which is a threat to our way of life," he said.

Sharif said that winning the war against terrorism was "imperative" for the country.

He once again resolved to eliminate the threat of terrorism from the country, according to an official statement.

"The terrorists have assassinated our kids; sons and daughters in this war, and God willing, we will wipe them out from this country," he said.

The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif, Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan, and Law Minister Punjab Rana Sanaullah Khan.

Earlier in the day, the PM visited Jinnah hospital Lahore on his arrival from Islamabad and met the injured of the Gulshan-i-Iqbal tragedy.

Wishing them good health and speedy recovery, Sharif spent some time with the injured and was also briefed on their condition by hospital management.

He directed for special medical care of the injured.

Former interior minister Rehman Malik had said that there were at least 150 sleeper cells of banned Lashkar-e-Jhangvi -- which reportedly has joined hands with the banned Tahreek-e-Taliban Pakistan -- in south Punjab.

Image: Security officials gather at the site of a blast outside a public park in Lahore. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters
A week after the deadly terror bombings in Brussels, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will leave for the Belgian capital on Tuesday night as part of a three-nation tour during which he will attend the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington and visit Saudi Arabia.

In Brussels, Modi will attend the long-pending India-EU summit. He will also hold a bilateral summit meeting with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel where ways to deal with terrorism will form a "very important part".

The India-EU Summit is aimed at deepening the strategic partnership between the two sides which are likely to deliberate on ways to finalise the free trade agreement. The last Summit had taken place in 2012.

India-EU ties witnessed some strain after the 28-member bloc had not responded to New Delhi's proposal for a brief visit by Modi to Brussels, the EU headquarters, during his trip to France, Germany and Canada in April last year.

"The attacks in Brusels, of course, will be a very important part of the discussions. In fact, it will be the starting point of the talks," Joint Secretary (Europe) Nandini Singla, told reporters.

In Brussels, Modi will meet top businessmen, including a delegation of diamond traders, and will also address the Indian diaspora. He will also meet Parliamentarians and a delegation of indologists, separately.

Antwerp in Belgium is the largest diamond trading hub globally as about 84 per cent of the world's rough diamonds passes through there. There is a sizeable presence of Indian traders in Antwerp.

From Brussels, Modi will leave for Washington to attend the 4th Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) on March 31 and April 1 where he will be making some specific announcemnents and proposals with regard to nuclear security.

India will submit a national progress report on nuclear security at the summit, which is also expected to deliberate on ways to tackle nuclear terrorism.

Asked whether Modi will meet his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif in Washington, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup did not give a direct answer and only said it was usual for leaders to meet their counterparts on the margins of international meets.

From Washington, Modi will travel to Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh on April 2 for a two-day visit at the invitation of King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.

Saudi Arabia has become India's fourth largest partner with bilateral trade exceeding USD 39 billion in 2014-15. It is also India's largest crude oil supplier and accounts for about one-fifth of total imports.

There are over 2.96 million Indian nationals working in Saudi Arabia, the largest expatriate community in the country.

This is the highest-level visit from India to Saudi Arabia after the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh trip in 2010.

Modi will hold discussions with the King on a range of key issues including expanding counter-terrorism mechanism as well to step up ties in energy, trade and investments. Both sides will sign a number of MOUs following talks between the two leaders.

Signalling growing cooperation in the fight against terror, Saudi Arabia has deported a number of terrorists to India in the last few years including 26/11 accused Abu Jundal.

There is an exisiting counter-terror mechanism between India and Saudi Arabia and both sides are likely to enhance it further.

Welfare of Indian community as well as Haj pilgrimage are likely to figure in talks. The King will also host a lunch for Modi which will be attended by key ministers and officials.

In Riyadh, Modi will meet top CEOs of Saudi companies, visit the famous Masmak fort, will interact with the Indian community and visit Tata Consultancy centre which had trained over 1,000 Saudi women. It is perhaps first such IT training centre.

Modi will also meet Indian workers of a project being implemented by L&T.

The 'Strategic Partnership' established through Riyadh declaration in 2010 envisions a deeper engagement in political, economic, security and defence areas.

Saudi Arabia plans to invest USD one trillion in infrastructure development over the next five years and Modi is likely to pitch for participation of Indian companies in the projects.

In Brussels, Modi and Charles will be "technically activating" the largest optical telescope of its kind in Asia located at Devasthal near Nainital. The telescope is a product of Indo-Belgian collaboration.

The two countries are likely to sign a number of agreements as they are looking at enhancing cooperation in areas of shipping, counter-terrorism, renewable energy and taxatation.

A dinner will be hosted in honour of Modi which will be attended by top Belgian industrialists and political leaders.

After the summit, India and the European Union will come out with a joint statement and a separate document outlining the roadmap for next five years in the fields of political, security, energy and trade and investments.

A number of India-EU joint initiatives will be announced after the summit.

Asked about the long-pending FTA, Singla said there has been forward movement on a bumber of key issues. On the Italian marines issue, she said it is now under a UN tribunal for arbitration and that it no longer a bilateral issue.

About the Nuclear Security Summit, Amandeep Singh Gill, Joint Secretary (Disarmament) in the MEA said India expected that the the summit will raise "high-level awareness" about threat of nuclear terrorism and the need to strengthen a legally binding convention to deal with such
The five-member team will be given a detailed presentation before they visit the attack site on Tuesday.

India and Pakistan on Monday began formal discussions on investigations into the terror attack at the Pathankot India Air Force base, making it the first-ever visit of a Joint Investigation Team from the neighbouring country that included an Inter-Services Intelligence official.

The five-member Pakistani JIT is headed by Chief of Punjabs Counter Terrorism Department Muhammad Tahir Rai and comprises Lahores Deputy Director General, Intelligence Bureau, Mohammad Azim Arshad, Inter-Services Intelligence official Lt Col Tanvir Ahmed, Military Intelligence official Lt Col Irfan Mirza and Gujaranwala CTD Investigating Officer, Shahid Tanveer.

The team was received at the headquarters of National Investigation Agency by Inspector General Sanjiv Kumar Singh.

They are being given a detailed presentation on the probe done by Indian agencies so far and evidences that show that the attack was planned in Pakistan, official sources said.

The team, which arrived on Sunday, will on Tuesday visit Pathankot for the probe into the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group on January 2, which left seven security personnel dead.

In the post-lunch session, the Pakistani team would be raising questions to clear their doubts, if any, before they fly to Pathankot in a special plane on Tuesday morning, the sources said.

The IAF base will be visually barricaded by NIA to prevent any view of critical areas.

The NIA team would show some of the areas where the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists were engaged in an 80-hour-long gun battle with security personnel.

India plans to provide the Pakistani team access to all witnesses in the case, but not to the security personnel from the National Security Guard or the Border Security Force.

The witnesses include Punjab Police Superintendent of Police Salwinder Singh, his jeweller friend Rajesh Verma, cook Madan Gopal and 17 injured persons.

The sources said that cooperation to the Pakistani team would be based on the principle of reciprocity hoping that an Indian team would be allowed to travel to Pakistan at a later date.

In the 26/11 Mumbai attack case, Pakistan had sent a judicial commission to cross-examine some of the witnesses in the case.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Zanu-PF has confirmed that it has directed its legislators to desist from grilling Cabinet ministers in Parliament on issues - asking them instead to paper over differences and system shortcomings.The party's chief whip, Lovemore Matuke, told the Daily News yesterday that the controversial directive had come "from the top", and that the former liberation movement would not brook any disobedience of the order.This comes after the party's secretary for administration, Ignatius Chombo, told a recent Mashonaland West provincial co-ordinating committee that Chegutu West MP, Dexter Nduna, and his Makonde counterpart, Kindness Paradza, were typical examples of Zanu-PF MPs who had a tendency to rock the boat unnecessarily.Chombo claimed that the two legislators were always "too excited", tending to "unsettle" party bigwigs in Parliament, including under-fire Mines minister Walter Chidakwa who was recently taken to task over $15 billion worth of diamonds that President Robert Mugabe said were stolen from Chiadzwa.Paradza - who chairs the parliamentary portfolio committee on Foreign Affairs - recently, and rightly so, grilled the Foreign ministry about the sorry state of the country's foreign missions, where a quarter of them face eviction over unpaid rentals, with salary arrears for staff averaging 12 months."The message should be taken seriously by all MPs because he (Chombo) is a very senior official and he communicates what he will have gotten from his superiors."The reason why we are chief whips is so that we control debate in Parliament in line with the party's policies. We therefore will not accept a situation where one MP asks one minister over 20 questions during one sitting."That means other MPs will be denied the chance to also ask questions. Moreover, we expect our MPs to follow the party's policies, and so they need to be whipped into line," Matuke warned.Pressed to say if it was not Speaker Jacob Mudenda who had the responsibility to give all MPs chances to make contributions, Matuke accused Nduna in particular of seeking to "steal the limelight" from other MPs by "having the whole Order Paper with only his questions, coming one after the other".Parliamentary question time has become one of the most-watched events on State television, with many people saying they like the rough and tumble of the debates.Some people have even called for the broadcasts to be moved from midday on Wednesdays, to a prime-time TV slot, to increase the potential viewing audience.Speaking to the Daily News yesterday, a Zanu-PF MP who requested anonymity, fearing reprisals, said: "An MP's job is to represent their constituent and hold the government to account. People in the party and in Parliament have completely lost sight of that".
Terror shook the world for the second time in less than a week on Sunday, with a suicide bombing that killed at least 65 at a park in Lahore, Pakistan prompting a global outpouring of grief and solidarity.

IMAGE: A man uses his mobile phone as he stands next to bodies covered in sheets at the site of a blast, outside a public park in Lahore. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

Eyewitnesses said they saw body parts strewn across the parking lot once the dust had settled after the blast.

Javed Ali, a 35-year-old resident who lives opposite park, said the force of the blast had shattered his homes windows. Everything was shaking, there were cries and dust everywhere. After 10 minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances.

He added: It was overcrowded because of Easter, there were a lot of Christians there. It was so crowded I told my family not to go.

Another resident, identified as Hasan Imran, who had gone to te Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park for a walk, was quoted by news agencies saying, 'When the blast occurred, the flames were so high they reached above the trees and I saw bodies flying in the air.

Another witness, who wished to be identified only by his first name, Afzal, said he had taken 20 children to a hospital and carried three dead bodies to a police car.

I cant explain to you the tragic situation, he said.

Police chief Haider Ashraf said, We are in a warlike situation and there is always a general threat but no specific threat alert was received for this place.

A medical superintendent at Jinnah Hospital, who gave his name only as Dr Ashraf, said more than 40 dead bodies had arrived at the hospital. The number of injured stands at more than 200 people, most of them are in critical condition, he said. I fear the death toll will rise.

He described a nightmarish scene at the hospital, with staff treating casualties on floors and in corridors.

Meanwhile, global heads of state, leaders and prominent personalities joined thousands of others in extending their thoughts and prayers to the tragedy-stricken South Asian nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to condemn the attack on Twitter, calling his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif as well, with several other leaders including French President Francois Hollande and British Prime Minister David Cameron following suit.

US Presidential candidates John Kasich, Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and Bernie Sanders all issued statements denouncing the attack.

Thousands of netizens also added their voices to the chorus of sadness and anger, many of them using the hashtag #PrayforLahore.

Photograph: @JFXM/Twitter

Photograph: @josephwillits/Twitter

Photograph: @nashwahakhtar/Twitter
Jawaharlal Nehru University Student's Union president Kanhaiya Kumar on Monday accepted an invitation extended by a students' group in the city to take part in a discussion in Pune.

He also expressed solidarity with the students and called the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and its affiliates as "anti-constitutional".

Speaking to media over the phone during a press conference organised by All India Students Federation and other organisations here, Kumar assured the students from

Ranade Institute (Pune University's journalism college), Fergusson College and the Film and Television Institute of India that he will go to any city where students' rights were being suppressed and will stand by them.

"I express my solidarity and support for students community who have been fighting in Pune," he said during his brief phone conversation with media persons.

The situation in the country is very serious as the government is trying to snatch away the rights and freedom of students, he said. "We have to get united against forces like the RSS, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Bhartiya Janata Yuva Morcha to safeguard the democratic values and Constitution. ABVP, and the BJYM are the sections of the RSS and are anti-Constitutional and against the judicial system, and trying to suppress students' voice in India," he said.

After the fracas at FergussonCollege here during an ABVP-organised discussion on 'Truth of JNU', wherein a BJYM leader allegedly threatened the students of Ranade Institute that they would be thrashed if they invited Kumar, students from these two institutes and those from FTII came together and formed a joint forum to invite Kumar. Dates of Kumar's visit would be soon decided, local AISF members said.

The local All India Students Federation members said the JNUSU president will be visiting Pune, Kolhapur, Beed, Amravati and Aurangabad and may also visit drought-affected areas in Maharashtra.

Asked about the alleged threat given to the journalism students, Kumar said this was not new as RSS-affiliated outfits didn't let the people speak the truth.

"This fight is not of one student, or one college or one university, but of entire nation and students community has to come together to fight for their rights, education and employment," said Kumar, who is facing a sedition case and is out on bail.
Maharashtra environment minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam on Monday alleged that the recent incidents of fire at the Deonar dumping ground were the handiwork of the Bharatiya Janata Party and that the ruling party was trying to gain political mileage out of the issue.

Kadam, along with other Shiv Sena MPs and ministers, and city mayor Snehal Ambekar, on Monday visited the dumping ground.

The BJP trying to take political mileage out of this fire issue (incidents of fire since January this year) which is the handiwork of its own people and they are doing this in the run up to the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) polls, Kadam alleged.

...But the truth is that the BJP and its leadership are responsible for this menace. This is their attempt to malign Shiv Sena, he told reporters.

Inquiry should be run into these incidents. I ask who appoints commissioner of the BMC, Shiv Sena leader or the chief minister? he asked.

Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant said it was unfortunate that the BJP was playing politics over the issue rather than solving it.

He also attacked Congress over its Mumbai chief Sanjay Nirupams remarks that the BJP-Shiv Sena combine has ruined the city.

Congress leaders need to know at least one very common thing that if we were not doing the right job, then why we were elected so many times by the people of Mumbai? he asked.

BMC Commissioner Ajoy Mehta, who was also present on the spot, briefed the minister and others on measures being undertaken by the civic administration on the cooling operation front.

Massive fire at the dumping ground in January this year had created a thick blanket of smog over neighbouring areas causing serious health issues to residents, while a fresh fire broke out there last week.
Breakaway Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has claimed responsibility for the bombing on Easter Sunday, which killed over 65 people in a park in the eastern city of Lahore that was crowded with Christians, including many children.

Image: Rescue workers evacuate an injured man from the site of a blast outside a public park in Lahore. Photograph: Mohsin Raza/Reuters

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter group affiliated with the Pakistani Taliban, has claimed responsibility for the attack, adding: The target was Christians.

The blast happened in the parking area of Gulshan-e-IqbalPark, Lahore, a few metres away from childrens swings, and most of the victims are believed to be women and children.

Authorities have so far confirmed the deaths of 65 people at the park, where Christians had been celebrating Easter, but they expect the death toll to rise.

Senior police official Haider Ashraf said the blast appeared to be a suicide attack, adding that ball bearings were found at the crowded park.

Medical workers said the blast mainly killed women and children, while many of the wounded were in a critical condition.

The chief minister of Punjab province, Shahbaz Sharif, has announced three days mourning and pledged to ensure that those involved in the attack are brought to trial.

Nasreen Bibi, the mother of a two-year-old injured in the attack, spoke through tears as she waited for news from the doctors. We were just here to have a nice evening and enjoy the weather. May God shower his wrath upon these attackers. What kind of people target little children in a park?

The group responsible for the attack was founded Omar Khalid Korasani, a former Taliban senior leader who broke off from the main group to form the more-hardline organization in 2014.

He re-aligned with the main Pakistani Taliban leadership last year, and the group are currently waging war on the government, which in 2014 vowed to grant no safe haven to terrorists.

The attack happened in the heart of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif political base in Punjab.

In a statement, the group said: We claim responsibility for the attack on Christians as they were celebrating Easter.

We want to send this message to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that we have entered Lahore. He can do what he wants but he wont be able to stop us. Our suicide bombers will continue these attacks.

The group was previously responsible for a March 2015 bombing at a Roman Catholic church in Lahore that killed 15 people and injured 70 others.

The army had been called in and soldiers were at the scene helping with rescue operations and security.
Heres an analysis of the style and strategy of the man who did the magic for Narendra Modi and then Nitish Kumar and whom the Congress has now hired.

At the Congress partys strategy meetings for the Uttar Pradesh and Punjab polls, a tall, spectacled and kurta-clad figure sat in attentive silence for four hours, listening to as many as 40 leaders in each meeting, taking copious notes.

None questioned the presence of this outsider at these closed-door sessions. For, the man in question, Prashant Kishor or PK, has a biodata showing delivery of landslide victories for Narendra Modi as prime minister in 2014 and Nitish Kumars alliance in Bihar. Hes now taken on the seemingly impossible task of securing Congress wins in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh in 2017.

Thus far, hes known as having taken only winning projects. Many believe Kishors record would be dented in UP, where the Congress has been out of power for 27 years.

In Punjab, they say, there might be a chance with Captain Amarinder Singh as the chief ministerial face. Kishor appears confident and undeterred. At a meeting of UP Congress Committee and district chiefs in Lucknow, earlier this month, hed said: Mein yahaan Congress ki seat badhane nahi aaaya hoon, Congress ko jeetane aaya hoon (I havent come here to merely increase the Congress tally; I have come here to make the Congress win).

Whats his formula?



His style had been to work with a personality, a face, around whom an entire poll campaign is built. As with Modi in 2014 and Nitish Kumar in 2015. For the coming polls, he will not change his tested template. For Punjab, where his team has begun some groundwork, party sources disclose he has come up with Punjab da Captain, Captain da Punjab.



Kishor is known for outwitting the opponents with fresh communication and marketing strategies. As a rule, he never repeats his tactics. Social media publicity and 3D hologram videoscreens projecting Modi worked as winning tools in 2014. In the Bihar campaign, there was more of grassroot interaction. Training and deputing college students to remote villages on cycles mounted with hoardings listing the seven poll promises of Nitish Kumar clicked with the masses. The Kishor team invested in large billboards in Patna but not a single television ad was put out.



To dismiss Kishor as another marketing and communication guy would be wrong, says a party insider in the know of things. The fact that he does not have any fixed job description and his only remit is to win the state (Punjab, UP) speaks volumes about the kind of confidence the leadership reposes in him, says the leader.



Party vice-president Rahul Gandhi himself has been overheard saying he has known Kishor for long. Kishor had worked with Gandhi in Amethi, way back in 2007, when he was still a public health activist, taking a break from a job at the United Nations.



Insiders say for the grand old party with its back against the wall, Kishor seemed the man for the job.

His record so far shows, he does whatever it takes to make his client win, with innovative strategies and sharp election management skills. The party is also banking on Kishors ability to come up with real-time arsenal, especially in a state as politically sensitive as UP. His chai pe charcha gambit to foil Mani Shankar Aiyars jibe at Modi as a chaiwallah was as effective as the strategy to make Janata Dal-United workers send 100,000 samples of their (Bihari ) strands of hair to counter Modis dig at Lalu Prasad and Nitish Kumars DNA being faulty.

Road ahead



Kishor is also far from being the management type of executive who is politically naive. At that meeting in Lucknow, he also made it amply clear to UP Congressmen that the party would have no tie-ups with regional parties, Samajwadi or Bahujan Samaj Party. I believe 100 per cent the Congress can win UP, Kishor asserted confidently and exhorted Congressmen to do the same.



Party circles are abuzz that Kishor might manage to get Priyanka Gandhi to be the Congress face in UP. And, thereafter, successfully galvanise the election campaign around her. The party is keeping its cards close to its chest, saying theres still a year before the polls and lots could happen till then. While seniors are tight-lipped on the issue, they concede the lack of an acceptable face in UP is a major problem.

KNOW THE MAN >> Born in 1977; his father was a doctor in Bhojpur district in Bihar >> Started his career as a public heath activist, worked on the pulse polio campaign in Bihar and the HIV AIDS awareness campaign in Andhra Pradesh >> Worked with the United Nations for close to a decade >> In 2007, on a break from the UN, he worked briefly with Rahul Gandhi in Amethi

2010: Deputed to UN aid mission in Chad, West Africa; headed UNICEF's Social Policy and Planning >> 2011: Met then Gujarat CM Narendra Modi and assisted him successfully on the 2012 Gujarat assembly poll campaign (operated out of the CMs house) >> 2012: Formed the Citizens for Accountable Governance, an election management consultancy group which managed the Lok Sabha 2014 polls for Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party >> 2015: CAG gave way to Indian Political Awareness Committee, which managed the Bihar elections for Nitish Kumar and the Grand Alliance >> 2016: IPAC, with Kishor as mentor, takes charge to help the Congress win 2017 polls in Punjab and UP

Winning strategies

For Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha 2014 polls

>> Chai pe charcha: A hugely successful outreach programme for Modi

>> 3D hologram rallies: Bharat Vijay rallies from where Modis speech was projected to 100 villages

Slogans: Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi

For Nitish Kumar in 2015

>> Bihari ya Bahari: Pitting Nitish Kumar against the outsider (bahari) Modi

>> Swabhimaan Rally: That repeatedly invoked the Bihari (asmita) pride

>> Badh Chala Bihar campaign: Vans projecting long-term vision for Bihars development, dispatched to remote villages
Why was everyone wooing Vijayakanth and why was he playing hard to get?

Aditi Phadnis reports.

Narendra Modi had just got elected leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party's parliamentary party. He was in the Central Hall of Parliament to thank his colleagues, his party and also alliance partners of the National Democratic Alliance.

From a distance he spotted DMDK (Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam) leader 'Captain' Vijayakanth and his wife, Premalatha.

Surrounded as he was by members of Parliament, Modi propelled himself towards the couple, bent low in a namaskar to Premalatha and said with admiration: 'By God! Kya kaam kiya aapne (What an achievement)!'

Those were heady days. The DMDK was part of the NDA in the Lok Sabha elections. The Tamil Nadu unit of the BJP didn't particularly like the idea of being in alliance with the DMDK, but didn't have much of a choice.

The DMDK contested 14 of the 39 Lok Sabha seats, getting around 16 per cent of the votes in those seats. True, Captain did not win a single seat in the Lok Sabha. But the party did manage to put itself in the reckoning in the politics of Tamil Nadu barely a decade after it was born.

The DMDK was formed in 2005, and projected itself as an alternative to the two dominant Dravidian parties -- the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

It contested the 2006 assembly polls and the 2009 Lok Sabha polls alone. Its vote share rose from eight per cent in the 2006 assembly polls to 10 per cent in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls.

In 2011, the party bagged 29 seats in the assembly polls after aligning with J Jayalalithaa's AIADMK, but the two parted ways shortly afterwards. In 2014 it failed to win any seats. Ahead of the 2016 assembly elections in Tamil Nadu, all parties began wooing the DMDK from the word go.

First it was the DMK, which hoped the DMDK would join its alliance; then it was the BJP, which hoped it would replicate the Lok Sabha alliance in the assembly.

The DMDK spurned both, going instead with the left-wing People's Welfare Front comprising the two Communist parties, Vaiko's Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and the Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi.

So now there are three sets of fronts contesting the Tamil Nadu elections: The Jayalalithaa-led AIADMK on its own; the DMK with the Congress and assorted smaller parties in alliance; and the latest left-wing alliance that includes Vijayakanth's DMDK. Region-specific parties like the Pattali Makkal Katchi are contesting on their own.

From Jayalalithaa's point of view, this is the second-best scenario she could have wished for. The best would, of course, have been five sets of fronts, instead of three, contesting the elections.

The DMK concedes that the DMDK would have been a plus, but is metaphorically shrugging its shoulder. The third front may well emerge as kingmaker in a post-election scenario.

Why was everyone wooing Vijayakanth and why was he playing hard to get?

'Captain' is a film star of some standing. He is known as 'karuppu (dark) MGR' and is conscious -- immoderately so -- that he is Someone.

His followers are a mix of his own Telugu-Naidu community, Dalit-Arundhatiyars and sizeable sections of Other Backward Classes from central and western Tamil Nadu.

For Tamil Nadu, fed on ideology and election rhetoric, Vijayakanth's campaign is simple to the point of being naive. 'There is corruption everywhere, in everything. They (the two Dravidian parties) are looting. Both have slapped bribery cases against each other. Should you still vote for them?' he asks crowds. His plank is development -- good roads, equal educational opportunities and jobs.

Vijayakanth's kitchen cabinet comprises Premalatha and her brother Sudhish. Former AIADMK leader Panruti Ramachandran used to be called the president of the Presidium of the DMDK (phew!) but then he and Vijayakanth argued. In 2014 Ramachandran returned to the AIADMK and will no doubt advise Jayalalithaa on how to vanquish the DMDK.

For Vijayakanth, this is a make-or-break election: After the 2014 Lok Sabha debacle, if he can't resuscitate his party it will lose faith in him and crumble. But the two Dravidian parties are not secure either.

The DMK is going through a painful leadership transition -- with M Karunanidhi bowing out and yet not bowing out for fear that family politics might damage the DMK; and Jayalalithaa unable to name a successor -- the closest she came to was O Panneerselvam, but paranoia overtook political judgement and now he's reportedly out of favour as well.

It is possible that 'Captain's stars might shine a little brighter after May 19. Or not.

IMAGE: 'You will be the king,' Vaiko, right, told Vijayakanth, second from right, adding, the alliance will be known as the 'Captain Vijayakanth Front'.
Arundhuti Dasgupta Singhal meets the editor who transformed the venerable Economic & Political Weekly, who retires this week.

Illustration: Uttam Ghosh

"You must understand," Rammanohar Reddy says, his voice almost a whisper, "in many ways it was a dream job." Reddy, for the record, is one of the most soft-spoken men I know and I am worried, as I sit across the table straining my ears, whether the recorder will catch his words (it does, thankfully).

We are talking about 2004. The Economic & Political Weekly, famously described by historian Ramachandra Guha as a journal that commands an influence disproportionate to its circulation, had just lost legendary editor Krishna Raj, who had been editing the journal since 1969.

"He was suave, in a nice way, a gentle human being. He made you feel important." In many ways Reddy embodies quite a bit of the man he admires so much. He wears his erudition lightly and is embarrassed at any mention of the overwhelming support he has received from academia across the world after his resignation as editor of EPW.

Reddy was 20 when he first met Raj. Like all research students, Reddy wanted to be published in EPW. That didn't happen, but years later the two happened to meet.

Reddy was The Hindu's economics editor then, his career arc having moved through IIM (Kolkata), the Planning Commission and a doctorate from the Centre for Development Studies (Thiruvananthapuram). Raj hinted that EPW might look at a successor in him, but nothing came of that until a call from the board sometime after Raj died.

Ram recalls that it was not an easy decision to make. It would mean staying away from his family in Hyderabad for long stretches of time, but he discussed it with his wife and they decided that "it was an honour to be asked." There was no question of saying no.

Given that, the past few weeks must have been particularly trying. Media reports suggest there was a fallout between him and the Sameeksha Trust that manages the journal. The two disagreed on the journal's 50th anniversary celebrations and Reddy, who was set to retire in a few months, decided to call it a day before his time.

Before we meet, Reddy makes it clear he will not talk about the controversy. I ask him nontheless. He is too much of a gentleman to tick me off, so he replies with a smile and says that, having spent almost a decade with the journal, he is happy to have been here at all.

But the relationship with the board... has it been choppy or...?

He takes his time, but says nothing more than it has been good so far. It would take someone of a far more aggressive persuasion to get him to say anything at all, so I give up and move on to the menu, not wanting to jeopardise our lunch any further.

Our lunch has not begun on a promising note.

Nearly a week before we are to meet, a brief set of text messages over venue and time were exchanged and, in an almost serendipitous manner, we agreed to a 'fish' lunch.

We settled for Jai Hind Lunch Home, a typical no-frills Mumbai hole-in-the-wall eatery, whose reputation for meen gassi and pulimunchi is unmatched. But Jai Hind is not a place where one lingers over a meal and in that sense not the best choice for the conversation we want to have. But then, the glutton in me gets the better of my logical side.

On the appointed day, I arrive early to speak with the manager (plead, really) for a quiet corner where we would be allowed to overstay our welcome. I am greeted by half-down shutters and a large board saying, Jai Hind is temporarily shut. My lunch plans appear to lie in the dust.

A quick conference and we decide to troop across the road to Gajalee, which too had once been a small hole in a suburban wall, but has blossomed into a swankier avatar and sprouted many branches. It is now an unromantic version of its old self, but the food is still worth the trek.

The restaurant has barely opened and we find ourselves in a corner that overlooks the concrete facade of an anodyne steel-and-glass mall. Still, a patch of the sky manages to sneak its way into our view and makes up for the grimness of our surroundings.

After speedily ordering sol kadi, a tangy drink smushed out of kokum and coconut milk, I ask him how much of a challenge editing EPW was, where finances are always a worry and a hoary reputation an albatross round the neck.

Well, it was a big challenge, says Reddy. "I felt it needed fresh energy, it had become tired."

The magazine also needed to explore and exploit the Internet. "I set about trying to do many things."

Authors complained that they would not get acknowledgement for their articles, some felt only a 'certain' academic background made the cut and others that the magazine was stuck with one kind of a voice. Some of it, he felt, was not justified, especially about EPW being a closed club. But for the rest, he threw himself into the job.

The first thing was to set systems in place, ensure that "If it is a research paper, we will let you know within three to four months. If we publish it, it would be done within a year." Also, having come from a newspaper, Reddy went about making it more topical.

Finances were always fragile. "But once I showed my commitment, everyone pitched in."

The Tata trusts gave money and then the Nilekanis came in. Rohini Nilekani's contribution helped them locate to a bigger office while the Tata trusts helped with digitisation and computerisation.

The lunch has to be ordered. Reddy demurs; says, "I am not very adventurous, so we decide to go with the staples: Bombil fry (the fish Fried Bombay Duck) and Rawas curry, pomfret and neer dosas and bhakri.

It is actually quite remarkable that EPW has survived for so long. "I see it as a journal of dissent," says Reddy and is thankful to the EPW community for keeping it relevant. "It has grown because readers and writers from different backgrounds want to keep it going."

The journal is unique since its readers are also its writers; they keep a close watch. But they are supportive. "We pay a small honorarium, but many send it back saying that they just want to be a part of EPW."

Finances are still a problem, but going digital has helped where subscriptions are growing. When he joined, he was not sure whether there would be a print edition 10 years later, but it's still around.

Reddy has changed EPW. It has a more diverse set of voices and is immensely readable. "My greatest satisfaction was when we would discover some unknown author. The joy would be more when the author was from some small town or unknown university, and would send her article without any introduction."

He recalls: "In 2005 we received a long piece on water in Delhi and just sat on it, because we did not have time. Then Lakshmi Jain (the late Gandhian activist and Magsaysay Award winner) asked me to give it a second look... I did and we published it. The author was Arvind Kejriwal, then with an organisation called Parivartan (now defunct)."

"Then he became famous. I sent him an email congratulating him on the Magsaysay; he never acknowledged it." But Nobel Laureate (and EPW contributor) Angus Deaton did reply, with a personal letter. Deaton is among the 101 signatories to the letter to the board protesting Reddy's resignation.

Reddy has tried to give everyone, irrespective of their political beliefs, space as long as they make a sound analysis. EPW has even published Subramanian Swamy, Reddy says with some embarrassment.

It is time for dessert and the waiter brings in something that looks straight out of a MasterChef show on television. We refuse politely and ask for the tried and tested caramel custard, which does not disappoint with its usual gelatinous sweetness.

We are all creatures of habit, as is EPW for its tiny but powerful group of readers.
Opinion / Columnist

To say that opposition politics in Zimbabwe is unimaginative and wholly uninspiring is an epic show of restraint with words out of respect. There is this very restricted and rigid view of the role of the opposition, what they intend to achieve and how they are going to achieve those outcomes. The opposition has this 'whatever-it-takes' attitude when it comes to fulfilling their barren ambitions of dislodging the ruling party as the next government.The opposition parties in Zimbabwe are very limited when it comes to policy and punch, they offer no shadow strategy for the country and their primary objective is a feeling of entitlement to get into 'power simply because the ruling party has been in power for too long'.There is a disastrous and destructive over-reliance on disinformation deliberately intended to mislead and deceive the electorate. There is a high level of desperation to tarnish, misinform and create the impression of utter ruination about the country even in cases that do not warrant such depiction. It is unfortunate that some within the opposition will go to extraordinary lengths to present the country to the world with such bleak outlook for their singular yet infertile ambitions to get to be the next government.It is a shameless charade to tarnish the name of Zimbabwe through outrageous invention and having to import images from other countries to dishonourably illustrate the perceived failures of Zanu-PF. There recent one was a picture of a road with many potholes which was being circulated on social media and being deviously portrayed as being in Harare.It is offensive to say the least and a disservice to the nation. The picture is clearly not from Harare or any part of Zimbabwe. The cars are driving on the right hand side and the car number plates have white backgrounds and black font. In Zimbabwe, cars drive on the left hand side and number plates are yellow. This distorted depiction of Zimbabwe is clearly and carelessly presented to fool the electorate into exchanging their vote for such blatant half-truth. What person in their right mind would want to represent their own country with such an incorrect and damaging impression? The picture is clearly not from Zimbabwe and those who are circulating this picture and claiming this is Harare are intending on appealing to a particular funding circle to help prop up their very slim chances of convincing the electorate that they are made of real governing stuff.Instead of a heartfelt and genuine connection with the electorate at grassroots level and seriously challenging what they perceive to be the ruling party's policy flaws they are busy trying to outdo each other in de-campaigning and denigrating Zimbabwe through fictitious images rented from somewhere else other than Zimbabwe. No one is denying that there are potholes in the country or the fact that the country is facing economic challenges, but to import and fabricate images and pass them on as Harare is pitiful. Those who have circulated and shared this image are deliberately destructive and reckless. The country is going through many challenges as we speak, there are real problems to content and any opposition worth noting should be focusing on policy alternatives not rented images.The Zimbabwe electorate is highly sophisticated and can easily sift through to distinguish facts from fabrications. This deliberate deception and disinformation is not going to win over the electorate. Those in the opposition who are fuelling this misleading narrative lack foresight. They present the country with such negativity and forget that even if by some miracle they get to become the next government that negative perception about the country will stick for a very long time. You cannot delete social media posts once shared and that is it. The opposition accuse the Government of scaring away investors and if the truth be told they themselves are doing the real job of misrepresenting Zimbabwe to potential investors. The picture they are circulating on social media and all the never-ending portrayal of Zimbabwe goes a long way in discouraging investors into the country. Again no one is suggesting for one second that we should camouflage problems and paint a rosy picture, but to fake images for effect is just dishonest and dishonourable. The perception this creates is that of absolute ruin and gloom and very few countries, if any molest themselves in this manner. Yes, Zimbabwe does have potholes on some roads but not to the extent as presented in that fake image doing rounds on social media.This disinformation campaign against Zimbabwe is a concerted effort by the local opposition who are desperate to get into power. There is nothing patriotic about continually trying to put your country down. In fact, that is substandard patriotism. There are social, political and economic implications associated with persistently and publicly disgracing your own country and they are indeed disastrous.It is a never-ending onslaught against Zimbabwe. There was a very dodgy 'survey' entitled '3rd Annual Africa Wealth Report' published by the equally dodgy New World Wealth publication which claimed that Zimbabwe was the poorest country in the world based on inaccurate data. The disheartening thing is that it was Zimbabwean nationals who picked up on such a meaningless survey and shared that online as a matter of fact. Even online publications printed such shallow data. The so-called survey uses per capita rankings and claimed that Zimbabwe's wealth per capita was US$200 per person. The report surveyed 20 countries and from those 20 countries concluded that Zimbabwe was the poorest country in the world! One is left wondering where they obtained the data for such a dubious survey. A quick look at the data sets from Zimbabwe Government ZNSA, RBZ, ADB, IMF, Credit Suisse or World Bank will give you a Zimbabwe wealth per capita of over US$2 000 per person. That figure could be even higher given that Zimbabwe's economy is still incorrectly measured and still to be re-based. These rankings of poorest and richest country are just pointless and misleading. It is inaccurate to rank world economies because some countries measure economic activity that others do not factor in. Some countries measure informal activities whereas others do not, some countries have re-based their economies and others are still to re-base theirs. Thus when the size of the different countries' economies is inconsistently measured then the rankings among countries are inconsistent and mostly inaccurate.The tragedy is that as erroneous and destructive such disinformation is, the Zimbabwe opposition clutch onto such ridiculous surveys and run off with these as facts to further their faint hopes of becoming the next government. The rent-a-fake photo of potholes brings the desperation to new heights. Even the newly formed People First has been desperately 'renting' pictures of crowds to present a picture of bumper crowds at their poorly-attended gatherings.The opposition is and has always focused on faulty step ladders towards power hence the preoccupation with trying to dishonestly undermine Government. The electorate will not be easily swayed by blatant lies as fake pothole pictures and fraudulent surveys. With such opposition, ZANU-PF is on course to register another landslide in the 2018 elections.bernardbwoni.blogspot.com
What you need to know about Powerball and the $580 million jackpot
GARY BOMAR/SPECIAL TO THE REPORTER-NEWS Robert Atwood and John Graham recently spoke at the Texas Farm Ranch Wildlife Expo.

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Recently, the Taylor County Farm Bureau teamed up with The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association to address specific landowner rights at a special session during the Texas Farm Ranch Wildlife Expo.

"The role of both the local and state Farm Bureau is to be an advocate for all landowners rights," said Robert Atwood, president of the Taylor County Farm Bureau.

Several issues are affecting our region, Atwood said. Eminent domain, which is the power to take private property for public use by a state, municipality or private person or corporation authorized to exercise functions of public needs, following the payment of just compensation to the owner of the property. Atwood defines a new term "pipeline corridor" which is affecting the region.

"While it is progress, there needs to be a balance," Atwood said. Landowners must be educated on their rights and fair and current compensation being paid. "You need to do your homework before entering into a contact" he said.

Water is a primary issue for West Texas. The Farm Bureau states its role is to protect the landowner and agricultural producers rights to surface and groundwater. Several landowner organizations are opposing any action that will limit the constitutional rights to water. Some pending legislation may do just that.

Extraterritorial jurisdiction is the legal ability of government to exercise authority beyond it normal boundaries. Urban growth is affecting the rural areas, according to Atwood.

"We need to address these issues, since potentially it could make an impact on our rural landowners," Atwood said. Landowners need to become aware of factors that may have a affect on landowner rights, and become active in these various landowner-based organizations which monitor plus address these issues.

The new "open carry" gun law was discussed by John Graham of the Taylor County Sheriff's Office.

"Since it has become effective, we are still in a learning stage and interpreting this law daily," Graham said. People should use common sense with firearms and just do what is right. "Always think about the aftermath if faced in a dangerous situation."

Joe Roberts and H.D. Brittian are special rangers with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. TSCRA memberships dues fund the rangers. They protect and work to recover stolen livestock and equipment.

Roberts and Brittian stress the need for the landowner to take several actions to protect against thief.

"Foremost is branding of livestock, and freeze branding of horses," said Roberts.

He compares a brand to a serial number, and that is the best tool used to recover. He tells producers to register their brand with the county clerk in the county where the livestock are located.

Besides livestock, they recover stolen equipment such as saddles and trailers, according to Brittian. Again, identification is a major factor in the recovery process, he notes.

Both rangers said if a landowners owner finds an intrusion or thief, the very first thing they should do is contact the local Sheriff's office, which in turn will contact them.
SAN FRANCISCOJackie Rednour-Bruckman, executive vice president of Good Vibrations, will host the closing keynote plenary address at CatalystCon Midwest with special guest Bryanna A. Jenkins, the executive director and founder of Trans Alliance in Baltimore. Jenkins has received accolades for her Trans Uprising activist events, which have been featured in The New York Times, the Advocate, and other news outlets and publications.

The first Midwestern CatalystCon takes place April 1-3 at the OHare Hyatt in Chicago. This is the first time CatalystCon comes to Chicago.

Good Vibrations is heavily involved in the conference, with Staff Sexologist Carol Queen moderating the opening Keynote Plenary Address and present on various panels, including a session on The Sex & Pleasure Book, written by Queen with Shar Rednour. Queen will also be presenting on "Slut Shaming" and "Building Bridges Between Sex Positive Retailers and Educators."

Good Vibrations Education Manager Andy Duran will be on a panel with Rednour-Bruckman called Queer and Trans Sexual Health. And Rednour-Bruckman will also be on the "Sex Positive Parenting" panel.

Check out the full list of presenters at CatalystCon.com. Follow Good Vibrations on Twitter at @GoodVibesToys and see Tweets with the hashtag #ccon to get more detail on the discussions generated by panels, presenters and attendees.
The legacy left behind says a lot about a man.

McMurry University music professor Mark Wilcox died last summer, struck down by cancer.

Wilcox was the kind of man who inspired students and fellow musicians alike.

'Mark was the nicest guy anybody could want to meet,' said David Amlung, assistant music professor at McMurry and a longtime friend of Wilcox's. 'And he was one of the best all-around trumpet players I've ever known.'

Amlung spoke about Wilcox's quick wit, musical skills and humbleness.

When Wilcox, 58, died in July, people in Abilene gathered for a small memorial. But students and professors were scattered for the summer, and many people who wanted to share their grief and their love for Wilcox didn't get a chance.

Wilcox and his wife, Helen, moved back to Dayton, Ohio, last spring to be closer to family as his illness progressed. His funeral was held there. Helen Wilcox will be in Abilene for the memorial.

Thanks to the efforts of friends, colleagues and students, a special concert honoring Wilcox will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1741 Sayles Blvd.

People are coming from across the country to honor the man who could take a trumpet from bebop to jazz to classical music and back again with ease and joy.

Thursday's event will reflect that skill. Amlung said the concert is a remembrance, but he doesn't want it to be somber.

Two pieces of music will debut at the memorial.

'A Trumpet Shall Sound' was written by Bernie Scherr, department head for music theory and composition at Hardin-Simmons University, and a member of Key City Brass Quintet, which features musicians from McMurry, HSU, Abilene Christian University and Cooper High School. Wilcox was instrumental in starting the group, Amlung said.

Amlung contacted Scherr to see if he would compose a piece for brass as a tribute to Wilcox.

'He had 10 measures written by that evening,' Amlung said.

The piece calls for the trumpets to play offstage, a reference to the man they honor, the man who may be gone, but stays in their memories. The Key City Brass Quintet will play the composition at the end of the memorial.

Amlung ran across another piece of music, written by Tim Olt, a composer and tuba player from Ohio, where Wilcox and Amlung are from. When Amlung spoke to Olt about the music, which simply said 'Wilcox Fanfare' at the top, the composer explained that Wilcox and McMurry had commissioned him to write a piece for students to play in a national trumpet competition.

McMurry music students will name the piece, and the new title will debut at its first public performance at the memorial concert.

Other musical choices reflect the different pieces musicians and vocalists performed with Wilcox or songs that represent him to the performers.

Christina Wilson, an associate music professor at McMurry, will sing 'I've Grown Accustomed to His Face.' Other pieces include 'Someone to Watch Over Me,' 'Symphonic Sketches for Trumpet,' 'All I Ask of You,' 'A Quiet Place' and 'Just a Closer Walk With Thee.'

Amlung said that last piece, a jazz number, often is played at funerals in New Orleans.

The musicians and vocalists will include the music faculty and students from McMurry, a variety of ensembles, including the ACU Trumpet Ensemble, plus guests from Missouri, Oklahoma, San Angelo and San Antonio.

'I think it's going to be a really nice event,' Amlung said. 'It's kind of strange to wait so long, but we really wanted to plan it well.'
Encourage your pastor to tell us the upcoming week's sermon topic. It's FREE, and it's open to churches throughout the Big Country. Email it to publishme@reporternews.com by 2 p.m. each Tuesday. Please put "sermon" in the subject line. Include the topic, who will deliver it, a short synopsis, when services begin and the name and street address of your place of worship.

Baker Heights Church of Christ, 5382 Texas Ave.

Services: 10 a.m. Sunday

Speaker: Wes McAdams

Topic: "The Lion Speaks to the Church in Thyatira"

Synopsis: Every culture has certain behaviors and attitudes it considers virtuous and commendable. In twenty-first-century America, one of the attitudes considered to be most virtuous and commendable is "tolerance," the willingness to accept and even applaud the beliefs and behaviors of others, even if they contradict your own beliefs, is seen as the most commendable trait. Many have tried to present Jesus as an advocate of tolerance. They would be surprised to find out Jesus actually told the church in Thytira He was going to severely punish them for, of all things, having tolerance. Join us as we continue our sermon series, "The Lion Speaks."

Christian Science Society, 1201 S. Pioneer Drive

Services: 10:30 a.m. Sunday

Topic: "Reality"

Synopsis: " ... Lift up a standard for the people," Isaiah 62:10. The standard was a banner or flag to rally around. Jesus furnished the rallying point for all Christians. Each Easter, our thoughts focus on the earthly mission of Christ Jesus. This year, our Easter lesson helps us to follow Jesus' example of blessing, freeing, healing and uplifting. We must look to the risen and ascended Savior for our health, joy and well-being. From a hymn titled Easter, "Let us sing of Easter gladness, that rejoices every day, sing of hope and faith up lifted ... Living meekly as the Master, giving God the honor due, every day will be an Easter filled with benedictions new."

Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, 602 Meander St.

Services: 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday; 1 p.m. Swahili prayer service

Speaker: N. Luke Back

Topic: "Easter Day" (Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 65:17-25, 1 Corinthians 15:19-16, John 20:1-18)

Synopsis: Our Gospel lesson tells of the discovery of the empty tomb and Jesus' appearance to Mary Magdalene.

Grace Lutheran Church, 1202 S. Pioneer Drive

Services: 10:15 a.m. Sunday

Synopsis: "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." God has indeed raised from dead the one who was put to death "by hanging him on a tree." Alleluia! God allows Jesus to appear "to us who were chosen by God as witnesses" in holy baptism and invites us to eat and drink at the table of the risen Christ. Alleluia!

Oakridge Church of Christ, 3250 Beltway S.

Services: 10 a.m. Sunday

Speaker: Steve Smith

Topic: "The Cross is Central to Christianity"

Synopsis: "I'm not ashamed of the cross" says the Apostle Paul.

Oldham Lane Church of Christ, 5049 Oldham Lane

Services: 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday

Speaker: Chris McCurley

Topic: "Stairway to Heaven  Grace Anatomy"

Synopsis: The process of salvation begins with a proper understanding of grace. Christianity stands or falls on God's grace. The central and distinctive feature of the gospel is grace. Join us as we begin a new series on what it means to be a New Testament Christian in the New Testament church. Come grow with us!

Woodlawn Church of Christ, 841-A N. Judge Ely Blvd.

Services: 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday

Speaker: Larry Fitzgerald

Topic: "Victory Over the Cross"

Synopsis: The cross is a symbol of the sacrifice that the Son of God gave to us. To those who lived in Jesus' day, the cross was a symbol of pain, punishment and cruelty. It demonstrated a conquering nation's power over the country they had overrun. Yet Jesus conquered the cross, making sure that we will have life after this life. Come hear how Jesus destroyed death this Easter. Following morning services, the children are invited to a free candy-egg hunt courtesy of the congregation.

Wylie Baptist Church, 6097 Buffalo Gap Road

Services: 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday

Speaker: Donny Harbers

Topic: "Celebrations in the Cemetery III: He is Not Here. He is Risen" (John 20:1-18)

Synopsis: Today, as we gather to celebrate the historical death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we wager all of eternity on the hope that Christ the Lord is the risen Savior of the World, and He is able to save all who will call upon His name.
Texas DPS fires first officer over Uvalde shooting response

Sgt. Juan Maldonado becomes first member of the state police agency to lose his job in the fallout over the hesitant response to the May attack.
Jack Hill had absolutely no background in radio when his Christian music station, KGNZ, began operation in 1981, said his sons on Monday.

Hill, who founded KGNZ and its holding company Christian Broadcasting Co., died Saturday after a lengthy battle against cancer, according to a message posted on the KGNZ website. He was 82. Funeral services will be March 30 at 2 p.m. at Fountain Fellowship at North 10th and Willis.

"He had two master's degrees, I believe, from Abilene Christian University, but they were both in biblical studies," said his son, Larry.

Jack Hill, a native of Swenson who grew up in Abilene, was a Church of Christ minister in New Jersey after serving as a missionary in Brazil and as a minister in Commerce and at Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, according to an article in the Reporter-News in 1991. He also served churches in Ohio and New York. It was while he was in New York that he was introduced to a Christian music station and was struck with the idea that starting a Christian music station in West Texas was what God wanted him to do, said his son.

Larry Hill said that his father attended a prayer meeting in Dallas where he mentioned that he felt called to start a Christian music radio station.

"Some of the men said that they had been praying for someone to begin a Christian station in West Texas," said Larry Hill. "One of the men, Gerald Gibson, gave dad the money to spend a year starting the station. God just provided the exact amount of money. One man gave him $400, which is exactly what dad needed to cover the moving expenses."

Still, it wasn't an easy road to get KGNZ on the air. It took seven years to get the approval from the FCC and KGNZ began operating in 1981.

"He was a very determined man with limited resources," said Larry Hill, adding that his father made ends meet by taking odd jobs and working in gas stations.

"I can remember helping dad paint address numbers on curbs," he said.

From the outset, Jack Hill aimed the music at a younger audience, even when his own taste in music tended toward more traditional music like Doug Oldham and the Gaithers.

"He always loved praise music," said his youngest child, Gary, the general manager of the station, which broadcasts in Lubbock, San Angelo, Graham and Snyder.

Larry Hill said it was somewhat ironic that one of the oldest Christian music stations was started by a man whose religious heritage was in a denomination that has not had instrumental music in its worship services, although some Churches of Christ now have services with instrumental music. Gary Hill said his father's influence will be felt for a long time at the station.

"You can't help but think about him when you walk through the station," he said. "Dad like to put up wood plaques that had scripture on them. Somebody gave him a wooden cross, and it's up at the station, too."

Hill was predeceased by his wife and daughter Kathy Houston. He is survived by his sons, both of Abilene, their wives and 12 grandchildren
When the Walmart Supercenter on Highway 351 opened in 2005, it didn't just mean Abilene residents had another 24-hour location to buy toasters and TVs.

It served as a catalyst, the particular chemical reaction being an eventual explosion of growth in the area, and one that seems primed to go on and on and on.

"My reaction is: Along came Walmart and then the many followed," said Realtor Scott Senter. "With over 20,000 cars and trucks a day on I-20, (the area) always had potential to grow  but needed a catalyst like Walmart."

There is a saying in retail, said Jon James, former director of planning in Abilene who now has the same job in San Angelo, that "retail follows rooftops."

Since most of the housing development in Abilene had been occurring in the south over the past decade or two, "it is no surprise that most of the retail followed along in that direction," he said of the city's previous propensity to grow that direction.

But then, Abilene developer Kenneth Musgrave spearheaded development of the north side Walmart Supercenter, kick-starting the development boom in the area, James said.

Realtor Paul Johnson said the brilliance of Walmart's move was that it didn't lose any business by moving from its location on Judge Ely Boulevard to Highway 351, instead growing its potential trade by picking up traffic from Interstate 20 and smaller-town markets such as Clyde and Baird.

"For several years Kenneth Musgrave and Kenneth Musgrave Jr. have been working on developing that area," he said. "Kenneth had land on his ranch and land was available at the intersection, and so he, along with the owners there made it possible for Walmart to come there and made it attractive."

Architect Tim Rice McClarty, a Planning & Zoning Commission member, called Musgrave, who died in 2013, a "man of vision."

"He could dream, and he could also pull the right strings to make things happen," he said. "He was just a unique individual that could do those kinds of things."

Many, like Johnson, expect the growth to continue.

Johnson said he expects expanded privatization of land around Lake Fort Phantom Hill, which in the past was only being leased, will "result in a boom in new and renovated housing, retail, marinas and hospitality development, as loans can now be obtained and the land is very inexpensive."

"The rooftops that retailers require will be there," he said. "A lot of the older homes that were in bad shape are now going to be either torn down and replaced with new houses, and people are going to continue to buy land because it still is comparatively extremely cheap."

Johnson said he'd compare the area to Possum Kingdom several decades ago.

"Land (there) was extremely cheap and now it's extremely expensive," he said.

A Fallow Field

The area around Interstate 20 and Highway 351 had long lain fallow for development.

Other cities, such as Weatherford, made their connection to the highway a readily accessible center of commerce for travelers and residents. But Abilene's connection to the Interstate remained a diamond in the rough for years on end.

McClarty, who has lived in Abilene all his life, said the area around the interstate always seemed like a "natural" place for development in town.

"I always wondered why development around I-20 did not blossom," he said. "That always seemed to me for many years to be a prime space for development to get people to pull off and visit our town. It just didn't happen."

Abilene was "bypassed on I-20 for years," McClarty said, because the interstate "really didn't pass through the heart of our downtown."

Business owner and former city councilman Joe Spano recalled that some of the area was in the flood plain, but redrawn maps a relatively few years ago opened up at least some of the land.

"The reason we couldn't do what Weatherford did was because of the flood plain," Spano said. "But that's changed now.  There is property there that is better property than it was 15 or 20 years ago."

James said he'd heard the theory that the amount of floodplain in the area had stymied development.

But the development that's going on now proves that "if development wants to happen, it will happen," he said.

Setting anchor

James said a Walmart functions similarly to the anchor stores in a mall.

"Once the Walmart went in and began drawing more traffic that way, it made other retail in the area more viable," he said. "Obviously there has to be an underlying market for each business, but I think anyone who lives on the north side would tell you that there was a large untapped market up there of people having to drive all the way across town to reach retail that only existed on the south side."

In addition to now well-established stores and restaurants that sprung up around Walmart, including Cracker Barrel, Chick-fil-A, GameStop, a walk-in clinic and a Dollar Tree, other development is in the works for a Starbucks, a Buffalo Wild Wings, a Cinemark movie theater and a 40-acre housing and commercial development envisioned by Abilene Christian University dubbed the Village at Allen Ridge.

"Before I left I was involved in some of the meetings regarding ACU's proposed Village at Allen Ridge project," James said. "I think that is very exciting and something that is an untapped market in West Texas."

National trends show that people, especially millennials, desire more urban, walkable neighborhoods and shopping, he said.

"While that trend will be slower to arrive in West Texas, I would guess that it is an untapped market that will do well, especially in an area such as that near the universities and (Hendrick Medical Center)," James said.

Spano recently opened a new H&H Liquor Store on the northeast side of town.

It was important to have a presence there, Spano said, because he could tell "just by talking to other businesses what was going to happen out there."

"I was approached by the person who refurbished the building that we're in, and I guess the timing was just perfect because I was thinking about going out there anyway," he said. "But there weren't too many places that I could put a store until they refurbished that building, so the timing was great."

To Spano, the northeast part of Abilene has the same amount of potential as the growth seen to the south around the Mall of Abilene.

"And there's a lot of business out there, too," he said. "We're doing a lot of business with people as far as Breckenridge and Albany. We service a lot of hotels out there. We do a lot of good business with people getting off I-20 and wandering around that neighborhood. It's a good place."

Positive Developments

James said that the area still has much potential, especially if it is planned in a "cohesive way."

"Obviously, the timing and amount of growth, especially with retail, is dependent on the underlying market conditions," he said. "An important factor is ensuring that decisions about individual development projects are not made in isolation but with an eye toward helping bring the city closer to its vision for the future of the whole area."

Senter said that a potential land swap between Eula, Wylie and AISD opened up "several hundred acres for AISD on the south side of (Highway) 351, which will help support more retail, as well  along with all the small communities within 30-50 miles outside of town."

McClarty noted that he would like to see more "infield development" encouraged, in addition to continued development in the parts of the city that are currently growing.

"We have so many pieces of property in areas of Abilene that are in a condition of blight, and it would help a great deal if we could get new development to move into these core city areas, which I would say is inside the loop," he said.

But right now we need to take all the development and diversification we can get, he said, since any development "helps our city grow."

"I've always been pro-development," he said. "We've had issues with extending services out there, but when someone builds something, they're required to extend those services so those costs are covered by the developer and not by the city."

McClarty said he and others could still vividly remember the oil bust, when Abilene's economy was steeped in oil "and that was it."

Because of retail expansion and diversification, such as the development around Highway 351, such downturns don't sting as much as they used to, he said.

"This turnaround in the oil business didn't hit us anywhere as hard as it did when the oil bust hit us in the late 80s," he said. "That is because of development and different venues for people to create jobs for people."
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BURBANK, Calif.Adult performers Natasha Starr and Rebel Lynn will co-host Porn Star Karaoke at Sardos Bar this Tuesday, March 29 at 9 p.m. along with co-host Nicki Hunter.

Natasha Starr is so much fun when she is on stage, said Seymour Satin, owner of Sardos, which is located in Burbank. Im so happy she said yes to co-hosting along with newcomer Rebel Lynn, whom Ive heard so many lovely things about.

I cant wait to host a legendary night of Porn Star Karaoke at Sardos with my girlfriend Rebel. She has a beautiful voice and we always have a blast when were together, Starr said.

The longest-running weekly adult industry event, Porn Star Karaoke is held every Tuesday night at Sardos Bar, 259 N. Pass Ave. in Burbank. For information, call (818) 846-8126.

Follow Sardos Bar at SardosBar.com or on Twitter: @sardosbar.

Fans can follow Natasha Starr on Twitter (@natashastar69) and NatashaStarr.com.

Fans can follow Rebel Lynn on Twitter (@TheRebelLynn) and Instagram (the_rebel_lynn).
Control over islets in the South China Sea is a matter of dispute.

Chinas aggressive moves to claim disputed territory in the South China Sea took a new turn in March when a Chinese coast guard boat entered Indonesian waters far from the China mainland.

The Chinese vessel rammed and retrieved a Chinese fishing boat that had been detained by Indonesia for fishing illegally in Indonesian waters.

An Indonesian official said that the Chinese coast guard had violated Indonesian sovereignty and urged China to respect international law.

Indonesia claims that the Chinese coast guard vessel entered Indonesian waters less than three miles (four kilometers) from the Natuna Islands.

This is well within Indonesias 12-nautical mile territorial limit and its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Chinas incursion into Indonesian coastal waters is unusual in that it occurred so far from the China mainland and involved a country, Indonesia, which does not make claims that conflict with Chinas own claims to disputed reefs and atolls in the South China Sea.

China demanded the release of eight Chinese fishermen detained by Indonesia, claiming they had been operating in traditional Chinese fishing grounds.

Carlyle Thayer, a veteran analyst who closely follows South China Sea developments, wrote in The Diplomat on March 22 that security tensions in the region are now slated to get worse before they get better.

A high-level visitor to China told Thayer that he has detected a sense of urgency in Beijing to complete consolidation of control over the South China Sea before the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal hands down a decision on claims made by the Philippines against China.

That decision is expected to come within the next three months.

Chinas sense of urgency is also being fueled by presidential election campaigns now being waged in both the United States and the Philippines, according to Thayer.

China has signaled that it wont recognize any decision made by the UN Arbitral Tribunal.

China is a party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). But Beijing has disregarded UNCLOS rules under which countries are allowed territorial waters and EEZs.

Instead, China claims nearly all of the South China Sea within an ill-defined nine-dash line stretching hundreds of miles to the south and east of its southernmost province of Hainan.

The next target

Thayer predicts that the war of words between the United States and China over who is militarizing the South China Sea is likely to sharpen.

U.S. military officials say that they will now increase the number and scope of freedom of navigation operational patrols sent in recent months through the South China Sea.

China is likely to respond with a mix of bluster and defensive measures aimed to signal its resolve, says Thayer.

Analysts say that further Chinese incursions and U.S. reactions could lead to a mishap and escalation of violence, particularly when they involve Chinese fishing boats and armed coast guard vessels that work in coordination with the Chinese Navy.

And the U.S. and its Asian allies may soon face a new test in waters surrounding Scarborough Shoal, an atoll, or rocky outcrop, claimed by both China and the Philippines.

John Richardson, U.S. chief of naval operations, told Reuters recently that Chinese survey ships seen near that area suggest that Beijing may intend to build an artificial island on top of Scarborough Shoal.

According to The Wall Street Journal, a Chinese base on Scarborough would allow Chinese military forces to monitor and threaten the Philippine island of Luzon, including the large naval facility at Subic Bay.

This would give China a triangle of military facilities around the central shipping lanes of the South China Sea, joining bases in the Paracel Islands to the west and Spratlys to the south.

The South China Sea is larger than the Mediterranean Sea and is believed to harbor large oil and gas deposits. Most important, ships passing through this area carry more than $5 trillion in cargo to and from the growing economies of East and Southeast Asia.

In addition to China and the Philippines, claimants to disputed territory in the South China Sea include Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

The United States takes no position on the disputed territorial claims in the South China Sea but is committed the principle of freedom of navigation under international law.

U.S. and Japanese Involvement

Chinas assertive approach to the South China Sea has resulted in promises of an increase in U.S. military aid to the Philippines and increased American military consultations with Vietnam.

Meanwhile, the Philippines has been negotiating for the acquisition of defense equipment from Japan, Chinas World War II enemy and modern geopolitical rival.

Japan has long been engaged in a territorial dispute with China over the disputed islands known as the Senkaku islands in Japan and Diaoyu islands in China.

According to the Reuters News Agency, Japan on March 28 activated a radar station in the East China Sea, giving it an intelligence-gathering post close to Taiwan and the Senkaku islands.

Policy makers told Reuters last year that Japans military buildup in the region was part of a strategy to keep China at bay in the Western Pacific as Beijing gains greater control of the South China Sea.

Chinas defense ministry, in a statement to Reuters about the radar station, said that the international community should be on high alert to Japans military expansion.

But according to the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative (AMTI), which is run by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies, Chinas actions may have succeeded in reviving interest a seemingly defunct U.S.-India-Japan-Australia quadrilateral strategic dialogue.

AMTI said in a report on March 14 that concerns about provoking China were a principal reason behind the initial failure of this four-party dialogue, nicknamed the Quad, after it was first discussed by foreign ministers in 2007.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe originally conceived of the idea as part of concert of Asian Democracies, said the AMTI report.

Recent revelations by CSIS that China was building a radar network spanning the region and had placed surface-to-air missiles on a disputed artificial island, seem to have revived the Quad as a strategic concept, the report said.

India has announced an Act East policy to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific.

But China has grown over the years in economic importance to India, Australia, and Japan, accounting for more than 20 percent of Australia and Japans total trade. India is hoping to gain $20 billion in investment promised by China.

Another obstacle to reviving the Quad is Indias inbuilt suspicion of alliances, said the AMTI report. Although India embraced the Quad concept in 2007, it has proved reluctant to commit itself to action in the South China Sea.

India has, however, begun training Vietnamese submarine crews.

On March 2, Admiral Harry Harris, commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, speaking in New Delhi, suggested that a U.S.-India-Japan trilateral dialogue be expanded to include Australia.

He argued that all four countries are united in supporting the international rules-based order.

Australia, which was reluctant to join a Quad in 2008, issued a defense White Paper under a new government in February that emphasized its ties with the United States and its support for a rules-based global order.
UPDATED at 2:30 P.M. EST on 2016-03-30

China's government has quietly increased its targeted limit for energy consumption, raising questions about its environmental policies and economic plans.



Under its 13th Five-Year Plan released on March 5, China would keep total energy consumption to "within 5 billion (metric tons) of standard coal equivalent by 2020," Reuters reported, calling it "the first time the world's second biggest economy has set such a target."



But in fact, the new consumption cap based on the international measure of energy content represents an increase from the previous target limit of 4.8 billion metric tons of coal equivalent, set by the cabinet-level State Council in November 2014.



The unacknowledged rise in the 2020 ceiling follows a pattern in China's official statements on energy and the environment.



Government authorities have debated and announced various caps on coal and total energy consumption for years, drawing notice from environmental advocates and press reports.



But the announcements do not make clear that the caps may be moveable targets that can be adjusted from year to year.



Little attention is paid when consumption exceeds earlier caps.



In January 2013, for example, the government announced it would cap annual energy consumption at 4 billion tons of coal equivalent by 2015.



But consumption reached 4.26 billion tons in 2014 and 4.3 billion tons last year, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).



Effective policy?



The latest increase in the 2020 limit, after just 15 months, raises the question of whether consumption caps are a function of effective policy or environmental window-dressing.



"This is all part of a planning mentality that they can put target caps on energy consumption when the reality outruns the assumptions built into those caps," said Mikkal Herberg, energy security research director at the Seattle-based National Bureau of Asian Research.



The increase in the 2020 cap may be a sign of the realities that China is facing after economic growth in 2015 fell to 6.9 percent, its slowest pace in 25 years.



Based on the NBS numbers, the government is counting on average annual growth in energy use of 3 percent over the five-year period, although energy consumption rose only 0.9 percent in 2015.



The extra room for consumption may mean that the government expects an economic recovery, or that it wants a free hand to fuel growth with energy-intensive stimulus measures, if it becomes necessary.



The higher cap may also partly reflect energy prices, which have plunged in the past year, raising the outlook for higher consumption rates.



But the government has argued that the less energy-intensive service sector is now the main force behind economic expansion. If that is the case, it seems odd to lift the energy cap now.



The increased limit may also be a hint that the government's plans to reduce production overcapacity in the steel, coal and other industries will not cut too deeply.



If major energy savings were anticipated from industrial downsizing, the consumption cap for 2020 would be expected to go down, not up.



Coal is loaded into a truck at a port in Lianyungang, eastern China's Jiangsu province, Jan. 19, 2016. Credit: AFP Alternate reason



Philip Andrews-Speed, principal fellow at the National University of Singapore's Energy Studies Institute, suggests an alternate reason for raising the cap.



Last November, the NBS revised its coal consumption estimates, conceding that it had been under-reporting the tonnage by 17 percent for years.



"The simplest explanation is that China adjusted its coal consumption upwards by 17 percent in November 2015, which obliges it to raise its annual consumption data and targets," Andrews-Speed said by email.



The big adjustment for coal, which now accounts for 64 percent of China's energy, may mean that the basis for growth and energy projections must be boosted all along the line.



"Indeed, one might say that raising the cap by just 4.2 percent shows great ambition," Andrews-Speed said.



For now, it is hard to say because China has provided no explanation and has not referred to the earlier cap figure.



On March 21, the state-run Economic Information Daily reported that the NEA has projected energy demand in 2020 will reach 4.85 billion tons of standard coal.



The total includes 4.05 billion tons of raw coal, 590 million tons of petroleum, 350 billion cubic meters of natural gas and 750 million tons of non-fossil sources in standard coal equivalent terms, the official English-language China Daily said.



The demand figure would be less than the new cap but more than the old one, implying an average annual growth rate in consumption of about 2.5 percent.



The revised cap could be a sign that the government is trying to keep the country within the bounds of its climate pledges despite having admitted to higher coal use in the past.



Herberg said that China's increased cap for total energy consumption matters less than how that growth is achieved.



"The more important issue is the fuel mix for that total energy consumption," he said. "It depends on how much of that incremental increase is going to be from fossil fuels."



Low-carbon sources



Earlier this month, the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) estimated that China lowered its annual carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 1.5 percent in 2015, based on preliminary data, as coal consumption fell for the second year in a row.



The country's low-carbon sources of power generation rose from 19 percent of the total in 2011 to 28 percent last year, with hydropower and wind contributing most of the increase, the IEA said.



Although the rapid growth in renewable energy sources is impressive, closer examination may be merited.



On March 17, China's National Energy Administration (NEA) told six provinces and autonomous regions to stop approving new wind power projects because many are generating without connections to the grid.



The NEA said that 33.9 billion kilowatt-hours of wind power generation were wasted last year in the north, northeast and northwest regions "because of low utilization efficiency," the official Xinhua news agency reported.



The warning may be a sign that some of the boom in wind power has been inflated by subsidized over-investment.



But even with the higher cap on total energy consumption, the relatively low projected average annual increase through 2020 suggests that China's days of rising economic and energy growth rates may have come to an end.



Herberg noted that the government has set a target for gross domestic product growth of 6.5 to 7 percent for this year, a reasonable rate for a three-percent rise in annual energy use.



Officials have said that average annual GDP growth of at least 6.5 percent is needed throughout the planning period to make good on the Chinese Communist Party's pledge to double GDP and per capita income by 2020 compared with that of 2010.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story mistakenly identified Mikkal Herberg as affiliated with the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Aung San Suu Kyi (R), chairwoman of the National League for Democracy, speaks to lower house speaker Win Myint (L) after a parliamentary session in Naypyidaw, March 28, 2016.

Aung San Suu Kyi reminded lawmakers from her party on Monday to carry out their responsibilities dutifully to meet the expectations of Myanmars people when the new administration under the National League for Democracy (NLD) formally takes over the government, a party spokesman said.

The NLD chairwoman made the comments during a meeting with lawmakers from her party, including lower house speaker Win Myint and upper house speaker Mahn Win Khaing Than, as they prepare to lead the first civilian-dominated government in more than 50 years when her proxy, president-elect Htin Kyaw, formally assumes power on Friday, said NLD spokesman Win Htein.

Win Htein along with Zaw Myint Maung, chief minister of Mandalay region, Han Thar Myint, an NLD lawmaker who is a member of the NLDs Central Executive Committee' Nyan Win, Aung San Suu Kyis personal attorney, and Myo Aung, another Central Executive Committee member, will lead the party in the future, said Aung San Suu Kyi, who is barred from becoming president under a provision in the military-drafted constitution that prevents anyone with foreign relatives from holding the nations top office.

Aung San Suu Kyi said the NLD has been struggling for 30 years and is not in good condition financially yet, although there are some possibilities to become [wealthier], NLD spokesman Win Htein told RFAs Myanmar Service. She told the MPs to resist this situation. If they don't, then they cannot fulfill their promise to the people or work in the peoples interest.

Her words came a day after commander-in-chief Min Aung Hlaing underscored the need for the countrys military to continue its involvement in national politics during the annually celebrated Armed Forces Day which commemorates Myanmars armed resistance to the Japanese during World War II.

In a speech, he defended the countrys constitution, written in 2008 under a military junta, which gives the commander in-chief power to appoint the heads of three key security-related ministries, and army officers a quarter of the seats in parliament along with veto power over proposed constitutional changes.

New Constitutional Tribunal

In a related development, Myanmars parliament on Monday rejected a military lawmakers objection to the appointment of two of the nominees to the Constitutional Tribunal, and approved all nine members to the body of legal experts.

Military MP Lieutenant Colonel Htun Lin Oo sought to have Khin Htay Kywe, a former political prisoner who is a Mon state parliamentarian, and legal expert Twar Kyin Paung, disqualified.

The panels members are elected proportionally by the president and both houses of parliament.

But upper house speaker Mahn Win Khaing Than decided not to pursue the army officers objection.

I am announcing here that we will have nothing to do with the objection by military MP Lt.-Col. Htun Lin Oo to members of the Constitutional Tribunal, Khin Htay Kywe and Twar Kyin Paung because parliament has decided not to pursue it, he said.

Lower house speaker Win Myint said the move was unconstitutional without evidence that the candidates were unqualified for the body, and lawmakers from both houses voted not to discuss the proposal.

Mahn Win Khaing Than announced parliaments approval of the remaining nine nominees for the tribunal, including Myo Nyunt, a judge in the Bago regional high court, as chairman.

In the meantime, national lawmakers approved six of the countrys 14 chief ministers of state and division governments, including Phyi Min Thein in Yangon, Win Thein in Bago, Mann Johnny in Ayeyarwady, Lei Lei Maw in Tanintharyi, Khin Htwe Myint in Karen state and Lin Htut in Shan state. The National Assembly will consider the others on Tuesday.

The names of 13 of the 14 chief ministersall from the NLDwere officially announced at respective state and division parliaments on Monday morning, the online journal The Irrawaddy reported.

Ethnic Rakhine people attend a campaign rally for the Arakan National Party in Yangon, Oct. 25, 2015. AFP ANP members walk out

Four members of the Arakan National Party (ANP), which represents the interests of the predominantly Buddhist, ethnic Rakhine majority living in the state and in Yangon region, walked out of the Rakhine state parliament in western Myanmar on Monday, when the bodys speaker announced that NLD lawmaker Nyi Pu had been appointed as the states chief minister.

The ANP won in most places in Rakhine state, said ANP lawmaker Aung Win of ANP. The ANP should have the right to form a state government if we are operating according to a democratic system."

"The appointment of an NLD MP as head of the Rakhine state government goes against the wishes of the people and democracy, he said. It shows that the NLD cant fulfill peoples wishes, and we are saddened by it. Thats why we walked out of parliament today.

ANP legislators wore black stickers on their jackets during Mondays parliamentary session to demonstrate their objection to Nyi Pus appointment.

We are wearing black stickers today to show our sadness because we didnt get what we wanted although we asked for it, said ANP lawmaker Than Naing.

People from the state capital Sittwe, Mrauk-U, Maungtaw and Buthidaung, also protested the move by demanding the right to form their own state government with an ANP chief minister.

For months, members of the ANP, the states strongest local ethnic political party, and their supporters have demanded that they be allowed to choose their chief minister from within their own political ranks.

The ANP threatened in January to oppose the NLD if it did not get its way, and about 500 people marched in protest though Sittwe last week.

The party won 22 seats in the countrys National Assembly in general elections last November that swept the NLD to victory over the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party. It also won 23 of 47 state parliament seats, but failed to gain a majority in the Rakhine state legislature because a quarter of seats automatically went to military representatives.

Nevertheless, president-elect Htin Kyaw, who has the authority to nominate chief ministers and their cabinet members, put forward Nyi Pu, an NLD lawmaker who represents Rakhines Gwa township, as the states chief minister.

San Hle Kyaw, chairman of the Rakhine state parliament, said lawmakers could submit proposals to object to his appointment only if they could prove that Nyi Pu failed to meet certain qualifications as chief minister, according to the countrys constitution.

I believe that we all have a common willingness to work towards developing the state, but we might not agree on the same [methods], said Nyi Pu. If we at least have the common willingness with regard to the state, we might not have many problems. If even we have a problem, it can be resolved through discussion and negotiation.

Reported by Win Naung Toe, Win Ko Ko Latt, and Min Thein Aung for RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khet Mar. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
Vietnamese blogger Nguyen Huu Vinh, is better known as Anh Ba Sam, was sentenced to five years in prison on March 23 for posts on his Ba Sam blog site that were critical of the government. The former police officer was convicted on a charge of abusing democratic freedoms to infringe on the interests of the state under Article 258 of Vietnams penal code. His assistant Nguyen Thi Minh Thuy was given three years in prison on the same charge. Mac Lam of RFAs Vietnamese Service interviewed the bloggers wife, Le Thi Minh Ha, on her experience with her husbands case.

RFA: Before the trial, a German member of parliament, Mr. Martin Patzelt, had flown to Hanoi to support Ba Sam, hoping that he would be allowed to attend the trial. Do you think that what Mr. Patzelt did made the Vietnamese government hand out a harsher sentence to prove that they are not under any pressure?

Le Thi Minh Ha: I dont think so. The sentence is not dependent on this. They did not base it on any legal ground. I think they had always wanted to reach a compromise with him (Ba Sam), knowing that he may or may not give in. There is no basis for the sentence, there is no evidence, no legal document to base it on. Their action is that of a government that has no law. Why would I have any hope in them? I heard news that the decree of the sentence depended on his attitude.  As for my campaign, since his arrest, I have never had any optimistic expectation of this trial. They violated the law when they arrested him. It was totally wrong. How would I put any hope in this trial? I didnt expect any solution via this trial. They had to bring him to court to show that they did have some progress. I had no hope, no expectation in this trial. The trials result does not affect my thoughts.

RFA: Not many people were allowed to attend the trial. You and Minh Thuys mother were allowed to attend the trial. Can you please let us know what happened inside the courtroom?

Le Thi Minh Ha: My first impression was that I was so surprised to see the court was guarded strictly. It looked like a rebellion' was about to happen. Why did they have to mobilize so many forces for a closed trial? The whole first floor was reserved for this trial on that day, and other trials had to be rescheduled to other days. Secondly, there were many young men dressing like thugs with tattoos and gold chains on the first floor of the court. We had to go through a screening procedure and all our computers, cell phones were taken. We then had to go through a screening machine on the third floor. Most of the people inside and outside the court room were young policemen, and there might have been some people from the prosecutors office. I think they wanted to show to people that this is a dangerous crime and this is a technology crime, so it is difficult to try and they want young people to come to learn. My first feeling was not comfortable. The only two civilians in the court room were Minh Thuys mother and me. There were some journalists of the state media. After the judge read his first remarks, the prosecutor read their accusation. I compare the team of (defense) lawyers and the other team -- including one judge, two jury members and two prosecutors -- and saw that they overwhelmed the defense team.

RFA: What do you think about the evidence that they showed at the trial?

Le Thi Minh Ha: It was not normal. All the documents  were not gathered in accordance with the law procedure, but they still included them all in the case. All of the evidence presented at the court had no legal value, but they still could hand out a verdict. The investigative office three times testified before the trial that in the investigative report they stated that they could not verify 24 essays and defendants did not admit any but they still put them in the verdict. Many of the authors of those 24 essays wrote petitions asking to attend the trial as witnesses to prove those essays belong to them but the court never responded to their requests.

RFA: Right after the trial, many countries that had people attending the trial called on Vietnam to drop charge, while the United Nations also raised concerns. What do you think about this?

Le Thi Minh Ha: The new leaders are young, and I dont know if there is China factor involved, but I think they know very well that any decision given in this trial would have some effect on the countrys economic and political interests. If they respected the law, or at least showed that they respect peoples human rights, then they would have thought about how their decision would affect policies of other powers like the U.S., Germany, or the European Union toward Vietnam in the future. But they have chosen not to respect those.

Translated by Viet Ha.


Officials say Taliban militants fired a series of rockets at Afghanistan's parliament compound on March 28 as the top intelligence official and caretaker minister of interior were due to speak.

No casualties were reported from the attack claimed by the Taliban.

"Three rockets were fired at the parliament but they did not hit the main building," said Safiullah Muslim, a lawmaker from Badakhshan province. "It happened when the session was ongoing."

Rockets are occasionally fired at government and diplomatic areas in Kabul.

There had been a decline in deadly attacks in the Afghan capital in recent months.

Based on reporting by AP, Reuters, khaama.com, and tolonews.com


KYIV -- Ukrainian officials said vile Russian missile strikes on civilian energy sites have caused power outages nationwide, leaving more than a million households without electricity, while Russian authorities ordered residents to leave Kherson "immediately" ahead of an expected effort by Kyivs forces to retake the crucial southern city.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, Russian protests, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Telegram on October 22 that Russia carried out a "massive attack" on Ukraine overnight and that "the aggressor continues to terrorize our country."



"At night, the enemy launched a massive attack: 36 rockets, most of which were shot down...These are vile strikes on critical objects. Typical tactics of terrorists," he wrote. "The world can and must stop this terror."



Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of Zelenskiys office, said Ukrainian air defense forces had shot down 18 of the missiles.



Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said a number of missiles had been shot down on the approach to the capital.



"Several rockets flying toward Kyiv were shot down in the region by air defense forces. Thanks to our defenders!" Klitschko said.



There was no immediate word on deaths related to the missile attacks, but officials said several people had been injured.



It was not possible to verify the reports on either side.



In the face of continued Russian strikes, Foreign Minister Dmitro Kuleba again urged Ukraine's Western allies to speed up the delivery of modern air defense systems.



"We intercepted some, others hit the targets. Air defense saves lives. In [Western] capitals, there should not be a single minute of delay in the decision regarding air defense systems for Ukraine," Kuleba said.



Local officials said power stations were hit in the regions of Odesa, Kirovohrad, and Lutsk, while other regions reported problems with electricity.



"Another rocket attack from terrorists who are fighting against civilian infrastructure and people," the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, wrote on the Telegram app.



Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal told a government meeting that from October 10 to October 20, Russian strikes damaged more than 400 facilities in 16 regions of Ukraine, including dozens of energy facilities.



"The Russian Army has identified our energy sector as one of the key targets for its attacks," Shmyhal said on October 21.



"Russian propagandists and officials speak openly about the purpose of all these attacks: Ukraine, according to them, should be left without water, without light, without heat," he said.



Meanwhile, Russian-appointed authorities in the occupied and illegally seized southern Kherson region on October 22 ordered the estimated 60,000 residents of the region's eponymous main city to leave "immediately" in the face of Kyiv's advancing counteroffensive.



"Due to the tense situation on the front, the increased danger of mass shelling of the city and the threat of terrorist attacks, all civilians must immediately leave the city and cross to the left bank of the Dnieper River," the region's Russia-backed authorities said on social media.

Russina-installed officials are moving people out of the strategic city in what they are calling an evacuation but which Ukrainian officials label as deportations.



The order came in spite of a claim by Russia's Defense Ministry on October 22 that its forces had prevented an attempt by Ukraine to break through its line of control in Kherson.



"All attacks were repulsed, the enemy was pushed back to their initial positions," the Defense Ministry said, adding that Ukraine's offensive was launched toward the settlements of Piatykhatky, Suhanove, Sablukivka and Bezvodne, on the west side of the Dnieper River.



The ministry's statement said Russian forces had also repelled attacks in the eastern regions of Luhansk and Donetsk.



Kherson city, which had a prewar population of 280,000, is one of the first urban areas occupied by Russia at the start of the invasion.



Zelenskiys office said 88 settlements in the southern Kherson region and 551 settlements in the northeastern Kharkiv region have been de-occupied, while the Ukrainian forces' counteroffensive in the Kherson region moves ahead.



Ukraine is trying to drive Russian forces in Kherson back east across the Dnieper. Russian soldiers on the western bank, where the city of Kherson is located, are reportedly close to being cut off from supply lines and reinforcements.



Natalya Humenyuk, a spokeswoman for Ukraines southern operational command, said the Ukrainian military struck the Antonivskiy Bridge over the Dnieper in the city of Kherson during an overnight curfew Russia-installed officials put in place to avoid civilian casualties.



We do not attack civilians and settlements," Humenyuk told Ukrainian television.



Ukrainian strikes made the Antonivskiy Bridge inoperable, prompting Russian authorities to set up ferry crossings and pontoon bridges to relocate civilians and transport supplies.



Russia has sent in thousands of recently mobilized troops to reinforce the defense of Kherson, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces said on October 21.



Zelenskiy again on October 21 urged the West to warn Russia not to blow up a dam at the Nova Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant on the Dnieper River as this could flood settlements toward Kherson.



Zelenskiy said Russian forces had planted explosives inside the dam, which holds back an enormous reservoir, and were planning to blow it up.



"Now everyone in the world must act powerfully and quickly to prevent a new Russian terrorist attack. Destroying the dam would mean a large-scale disaster," he said in his nightly address.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, and the BBC
Azerbaijan's Supreme Court has commuted a seven-and-a-half-year prison sentence against prominent human rights lawyer Intigam Aliyev, paving the way for his release after nearly a year in prison.

The court decided to give Aliyev a suspended sentence on March 28, after his lawyers appealed to prosecutors, saying he was suffering from spinal and other health problems.

The 53-year-old activist was arrested in August 2014 and convicted of illegal business activity, tax evasion, abuse of authority, and other charges in April 2015.

Aliyev has always denied the charges as politically motivated and his lawyers have been demanding that the criminal case against him be fully dismissed.

Aliyev was announced the winner of the International Bar Association's Human Rights Award in 2015.

He founded the Legal Education Society in 1998 to provide legal assistance to marginalized groups, and has represented many Azerbaijani activists and human rights defenders.

Azerbaijan is widely criticized by Western governments and organizations for its crackdown on dissent and imprisonment of activists and government opponents.

On March 17, President Ilham Aliyev-- who is not related to the human rights lawyer-- pardoned 148 prisoners, including several human rights defenders and opposition activists and politicians.


Russian news reports said the head of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) held talks in Moscow earlier this month on the fate of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad.



RIA-Novosti and Interfax cited a spokesman at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow as saying on March 28 that John Brennan also also reiterated the U.S. government's consistent support for a genuine political transition in Syria.



Interfax also quoted Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov as saying that Brennan had meetings at the Federal Security Service but that his visit was not linked to the decision by Moscow to start withdrawing its forces from Syria.



A spokesman for the CIA told Reuters that Brennan had indeed visited the Russian capital in early March.



The spokesman said in a statement quoted by Reuters that the purpose of the trip was "to emphasize with Russian officials the importance of Russia and the Assad regime following through on their agreements to implement the cessation of hostilities in Syria.

With reporting by Interfax, RIA-Novosti and Reuters
Azerbaijani military officials say two soldiers have been killed in fighting with the Armenian Army, the latest in a growing number of clashes over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Defense Ministry said that an officer and a soldier were killed on March 27 when Armenian forces tried to cross the state border.

Armenia disputed that account, however, saying Azerbaijani forces attacked several villages near their shared border, wounding one civilian over the weekend.

Ethnic violence in the region in the Soviet Union's waning days snowballed into full-scale war in the early 1990s that ended when ethnic Armenian forces took control of the mountainous territory. round 30,000 people were killed and many more displaced.

Despite years of efforts by France, Russia, and the United States, the dispute is still unresolved and fears persist of a wider conflict breaking out in the volatile region, which is a key transit point for European-bound oil and gas.

Based on reporting by AP and Interfax


Pakistani authorities have vowed to hunt down the perpetrators behind an Easter Sunday bombing in the city of Lahore that killed more than 70 people and injured some 300 others.

"We will not allow them to play with the lives of the people of Pakistan," Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said in a televised address late on March 28. "This is our resolve. This is the resolve of the 200 million people of Pakistan."

As the country began three days of mourning, Sharif said the army would launch a military operation on extremist hideouts and police will go after what he called the "cowards" who carried out the attack.

Sharif, who canceled a visit to the United States to attend a nuclear summit this week, warned extremists against using Islam to justify their violence in the overwhelmingly Muslim nation.

A Taliban splinter group claimed responsibility for the blast that ripped through crowds near a children's play area in Gulshan Iqbal Park, where many had gathered to celebrate Easter on March 27.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar said it had targeted Christians and vowed to carry out more such attacks on schools, colleges, and other government and military interests.

The group said the attack was a "message" to Sharif, who counts the Punjab Province and its capital, Lahore, as a political stronghold.

Army chief General Raheel Sharif vowed that Pakistan "will never allow these savage nonhumans to overrun our life and liberty."

The military said on March 28 that it had carried out a series of raids in Lahore and nearby areas following the attack, arresting several suspects.

"Number of suspect terrorists and facilitators arrested and huge cache of arms and ammunition recovered," military spokesman Asim Bajwa said in a Twitter post.

He said that operations "to nab the terrorists in the aftermath of Lahore blast" are continuing.

Police said the death toll had risen to 72 on March 28, with 29 children among the dead. With hundreds injured, the toll was expected to rise.

WATCH: Scores Killed In Pakistan Park Bombing (natural sound, viewers may find some scenes disturbing)

Senior police official Haider Ashraf said the majority of the dead were Muslims, who were also in the crowded park.

Pope Francis decried what he called the "hideous, vile, and abominable" bombing against Christians, and urged Pakistani authorities to "make every effort to restore security and serenity" in the country, particularly for religious minorities.

Earlier this month, Sharif had officially recognized holidays celebrated by Pakistan's minority religions, including Easter and the Hindu festival of Holi.

White House spokesman Josh Earnest on March 28 called the bombing "grotesque."

"The fact that you have an extremist organization targeting religious minorities and children is an outrage," he said, while also noting the high number of Muslims among the victims.

The government announced three days of mourning with the national flag flying at half-staff.

Schools and markets were closed and traffic was thin on the roads across the province on March 28.

Sharif visited injured people being treated at a hospital, his office said.

"It strengthened my resolve when I met the wounded people," he said in his address. "God willing, I will not sit idle until I bring smiles back on their faces."

Earlier, Sharif had expressed "grief and sorrow over the sad demise of innocent lives."

His Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, telephoned to say "the people of India stand with their Pakistani brethren in this hour of grief," state media reported.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the attack, calling it an "appalling" act of terrorism.

In the capital, Islamabad, security was tight on March 28 around the parliament and other strategic points to prevent riots by militant protesters who have been rallying there since the previous day.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which has publicly supported the Islamic State extremist group, also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian church in Lahore last year. At least 14 people were killed in those bombings.

Overall levels of militant violence in Pakistan have fallen since the army launched a major offensive against Taliban and Al-Qaeda strongholds in the northwest border areas in 2014, though militants continue to stage major attacks occasionally.

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, Reuters, dpa, and Dawn.com


Hundreds of hard-line activists in Pakistan have clashed with police and set fires near parliament in the capital of Islamabad to protest the execution of a man who assassinated a governor for criticizing blasphemy laws.



Police on March 27 fired tear gas at the supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, who was executed last month for the 2011 killing of a provincial governor.



Qadri was on guard duty in January 2011 when he shot dead Salman Taseer, the governor of Punjab Province who had called for reforms of Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws.



Qadri accused Taseer of blasphemy and admitted in court that he killed the governor.



His hanging on February 29 triggered street protests in several cities where some religious figures, political leaders, and militant groups publicly defended him.



The Pakistani Army on March 27 deployed troops on the streets of Islamabad after the chaotic protest erupted.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal, AFP, Reuters, and AP
Russian state media report that three heavy attack helicopters have left Moscow's Hmeymim airbase in Syria for Russia.

Two Mi-24 and one Mi-35 helicopters left the base onboard the heavy Antonov-124 transport airplane along with their flight crew and technical staff, news agencies reported on March 28.

State TV channel Rossiya-24 showed a Russian officer at the Hmeymim base saying that Moscow's forces remaining in Syria were enough "to repel at any moment any attack and accomplish any military tasks."

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced this month that "the main part" of Russian armed forces in Syria would start to withdraw after five months of air strikes, saying Moscow had achieved most of its objectives.

On March 27, Putin congratulated Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on Syrian forces' recapture of the ancient city of Palmyra from Islamic State (IS) militants.

Russia has been a staunch backer of Assad in his fight against the IS extremist group and more moderate opposition forces, some of which have received support from the United States and its allies.

Based on reporting by Reuters, Interfax, and TASS


Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir has urged Iran to change its "behavior" in order to normalize ties between the regional rivals.

Jubeir, speaking in Riyadh on March 27, said the oil-rich kingdom "wants to have peaceful relations" with Tehran and that it had tried to forge closer ties with Iran for more than three decades but "in exchange we received nothing.

Riyadh broke all diplomatic ties with Tehran in January after crowds angry about Saudi's execution of a prominent Shi'ite cleric attacked the Saudi embassy in Tehran and a consulate in the second city Mashhad.

Riyadh accuses Iran of supporting Shi'ite Huthi rebels in Yemen.

The Saudis also support rebels in Syria's five-year-old war while Tehran openly backs the regime of President Bashar al-Assad.

On March 26, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said Riyadh plays an important role in the Muslim world and that "if there is any problem between two countries, it should be resolved through talks."

Based on reporting by AP and AFP


Taliban militants have killed a provincial judge in eastern Afghanistan, the latest attack against judicial officials.

Jawed Salangi, spokesman for the governor of the eastern Ghazni Province, said on March 27 that Mohammad Anwar Rahmani was ambushed and shot while in neighboring Wardak Province the day before.

Rahmani was on his way from Kabul to Ghazni when his vehicle was ambushed.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the killing.

Judicial officials have long been Taliban targets.

The militants, which control swaths of Ghazni and Wardak provinces, have intensified attacks against Afghan security forces and government targets across the country in the past year.

Based on reporting by AP and Khaama


Scores of protesters have rallied in the Ukrainian capital, demanding the resignation of the countrys top prosecutor, who has been repeatedly criticized as an impediment to badly needed anticorruption reforms.

At least 200 people gathered outside the administrative offices of President Petro Poroshenko calling on him to fire Prosecutor-General Viktor Shokin.

The protest on March 28 followed a Kiev court ruling that authorized Shokin's office to investigate a watchdog organization called the Anticorruption Action Center, over claims that the center embezzled $2.2 million in aid.

The center has been a vocal critic of Shokin, who had formally resigned in February but then abruptly resumed his duties earlier this month.

His resignation needs parliamentary approval, but it's unclear whether enough lawmakers in the Ukrainian parliament will approve the resignation when they vote on the issue on March 29.

Shokins deputy, Vitaliy Kasko, resigned last month, accusing Shokin and his office of being a "hotbed of corruption."Shokin's office dismissed the claim as a publicity stunt.

U.S. and European diplomats have publicly called for Shokin's dismissal, and a top U.S. State Department official whose area of responsibility includes Ukraine earlier this month publicly called for him to go.

Based on reporting by AP, unian.net, uatoday.tv, and Reuters






Iranian factory workers and shopkeepers went on strike on October 22 as nationwide protests sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, arrested for "improperly" wearing a head scarf entered a sixth week, activists said.

The death of 22-year-old Amini has fueled the biggest protests seen in the Islamic republic in years.

Young women have led the charge, removing their head scarves, chanting anti-government slogans, and confronting the security forces on the streets, despite a crackdown that rights groups say has killed at least 215 people, including 27 children.

Activists issued a call for fresh demonstrations as the Iranian working week got under way on October 22, but it was difficult to immediately assess the turnout due to curbs on Internet access.

"On Saturday... We will be together for freedom," activist Atena Daemi said in a Twitter post that bore an image of a bare-headed woman with her fist raised in the air.

The 1500tasvir social media channel said that there were "strikes in a couple of cities including Sanandaj, Bukan, and Saqez" but added that it was difficult to see evidence of them online as "the internet connection is too slow."

Saqez, in the western province of Kurdistan, is Amini's home town, where angry protests broke out at her burial last month, sparking the nationwide demonstrations.

The Norway-based Hengaw rights group also said that shopkeepers were on strike in Bukan, Sanandaj, Saqez, and Marivan.



At Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, dozens of students were seen in a video tweeted by 1500tasvir clapping and chanting during a protest on October 22.

Dozens of workers were seen gathering outside the Aidin chocolate factory in Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan province, in other footage it shared.

The videos have not been independently verified.

People were also gathering abroad for rallies in solidarity with the Iranian protest movement.

Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets of Berlin to show support. Iranian activist Hamed Esmaeilion -- whose wife and daughter were killed when a Ukrainian passenger plane was shot down near Tehran in 2020 --is expected to be the main speaker in the German capital.



An online petition promoted by Esmaeilion asking the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations to expel the Islamic republic's diplomats has so far garnered nearly 657,000 signatures.

In Tokyo, demonstrators held up portraits of Amini and others who have been killed in the crackdown, as well as a banner bearing the protest slogan, "Women, life, freedom."

A teachers' union in Iran has called for a nationwide strike on October 23 and 24.

The Coordinating Council of Teachers Syndicates said the "sit-in" would be in response to "systematic oppression" by the security forces at schools.

The council identified in a statement four teenagers who had been killed in the crackdown -- Nika Shahkarami, Sarina Esmailzadeh, Abolfazl Adinezadeh, and Asra Panahi -- and said a large number of teachers had been arrested without charge.

"Iran's teachers do not tolerate these atrocities and tyranny and proclaims that we are for the people, and these bullets and pellets you shoot at the people target our lives and souls," it said.

Meanwhile Reza Pahlavi, the exiled former crown prince of Iran, stressed in a speech on October 20 to the protesters that there is a need to form a "pluralist provisional government" for the transition from Iran's Islamic republic.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian accused the United States of supporting the protests in an effort to win concessions in talks aimed at restarting the nuclear 2015 agreement.



"The Americans continue to exchange messages with us, but they are trying to fan the flames of what has been going on inside Iran in recent days," Amir-Abdollahian said during a visit to Armenia.

U.S. officials have dismissed Tehrans accusations that the weeks-long mass protests in Iran have been orchestrated by the United States or Israel

With reporting by AFP and dpa
In 1961, John Tower made history. In March of that year he won the special election to fill the Senate seat opened when Lyndon Johnson was elected vice president. He became the first Republican to win a popular election to the Senate from a state in the former Confederacy.

Once part of the Solid (Democratic) South, Texas voted for Republican Dwight Eisenhower in 1952 and 1956. Virginia, Florida and Tennessee also liked Ike in both elections. In 1966, Florida and Arkansas elected Republican governors. In 1969, Republican Linwood Holton won Virginias governorship. In 1968, Edward Gurney became the first Republican elected to the Senate from Florida; in 1972, Bill Scott became the first Republican elected to the Senate from Virginia.

Virginia voted Republican in every presidential election from 1968 through 2004. Then Barack Obama won it twice, carrying it in 2008 and 2012. Texas routinely rolls out presidential landslides for Republicans. Texans George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush won the presidency. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz is running second to Donald Trump in the 2016 GOP primaries. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush flopped in the 2016 Republican nomination contest. Eric Cantor rose higher than any Republican House member from Virginia. He lost a 2014 primary in one of the most stunning upsets of all time. An accomplished legislator fell to a non-entity who seems unlikely to rise.

Unless Donald Trump leads Republicans to a crushing nationwide defeat, the GOP should hold Texas by a healthy margin. Virginia and Florida will be battlegrounds (although Hillary would be favored to beat any Republican not named Ronald Reagan).
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Rep. Griffith submits his Easter newsletter for the week of March 28:

Peace

When the House of Representatives is in session in Washington, D.C., members of the House Republican Conference meet regularly to discuss legislation on the floor that week or in coming days, longer-term strategies, etc. I believe these meetings, which often cover a wide array of topics, are important opportunities to help keep leadership aware of the various concerns and priorities of the Republican Conference membership.

Last week, on March 22, I, like many of my colleagues, rose to share our views on the ongoing budget discussions.

But one of my colleagues, Congressman Daniel Webster (R-FL), rose with something better.

As my colleagues and I listened silently, Congressman Webster opened with, I bring you good news. He then went on to recite from memory a portion of the gospel:

This is the Gospel: that Christ died for our sins, and He was buried, and He rose again the third day according to the Scripture. But God commended His love for us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. But the angel said, why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen. Have a happy and blessed Easter.

Regrettably, it seems many Americans are of the belief that their Congressional representatives in Washington are not people of faith. From my experience, however, I would tend to disagree with that perception.

As I reflect on my colleagues recent Easter message, I also recall having written my November 24, 2014 column based in part on the opening prayer at another House Republican Conference meeting that was given by then-Congressman Alan Nunnelee (R-MS), who has since passed away after battling cancer.

In his opening prayer, Congressman Nunnelee quoted I Thessalonians 5:18:

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus.

What an inspiring and meaningful message. Though Congressman Nunnelees passing was met with great sadness, I found solace in the statement issued by his family:

Congressman Alan Nunnelee has gone home to be with Jesus. He was well loved and will be greatly missed.

Even in our imperfect and difficult world, may we be regularly reminded of the many things for which we are grateful. I am grateful for such things as my wife, my children, my health, the freedoms we are able to enjoy as Americans, the privilege of representing the Ninth District of Virginia, etc.

As a Christian, this Easter season and throughout the year, I also remain deeply grateful for the hope and promise of life everlasting offered by the resurrection of Jesus, who is sometimes referred to as the Prince of Peace.

My best wishes to you and your loved ones. I hope and pray that Gods love and peace will be with each of you, and that there would be peace amongst all faiths.

With my fellow Christians, we rejoice and celebrate the triumph of the Resurrection, and we renew our commitment to live to the best of our ability as was intended by God. Happy Easter.

If you have questions, concerns, or comments, feel free to contact my office. You can call my Abingdon office at 276-525-1405 or my Christiansburg office at 540-381-5671. To reach my office via email, visit www.morgangriffith.house.gov. Also on my website is the latest material from my office, including information on votes recently taken on the floor of the House of Representatives.

Submitted by Andie Pivarunas
In 1964, I was lucky enough to spend about three hours with Norman Rockwell. I was a college student in Boston and a member of a club that showed movies to raise money to bring in big-name speakers. Rockwell accepted an invitation to speak and took no payment or reimbursement for his expenses.

I met his old, beat-up station wagon and helped him unload about a dozen paintings. He opined that he would be lucky to get an audience of 30 to 40 students. He also feared that he would get no questions, so he wrote a few on different scraps of paper and told me to distribute them to my friends. (Oh, how I wish I had saved them  I was too busy being mesmerized.)

Well, the auditorium had more than 200 in attendance (in violation of our fire code). He spoke to a completely quiet audience who poured out thunderous applause when he finished, and then peppered him with questions. After way too long, it dawned on me to be merciful and I brought the afternoon to an end.

Afterward, while I helped him load up his station wagon, he allowed that the session had gone well enough. Humble, forthright, plain spoken, artistically insightful, his virtues just go on and on.

What a lovable person who also was an exceptionally talented artist. I shall enjoy my memories of him when I visit the Taubman Museum of Art.

 Doug Tuggle, a reader in Roanoke
In 2009, University of Virginia law professor Brandon Garrett was poring over old trial records looking for questionable forensic science evidence when he came across the case of Keith Allen Harward, convicted of rape and murder in Newport News in 1986.

Now, the Innocence Project says recent DNA testing proves Harward didnt commit the brutal 1982 crimes, casting further doubt on the validity of bite-mark comparison  a forensic technique that two experts testified strongly linked Harward to the crimes. It was their testimony that drew Garretts attention and concern in 2009.

At the time, he was researching a law review article, Invalid Forensic Science Testimony and Wrongful Convictions, when he began looking into non-innocence cases as well.

Sure enough, I found forensic testimony that had all the same problems that I saw in the innocent peoples cases ... and I found two bite-mark cases by accident, one of which was Harward, he said.

Reached by telephone at his Roanoke-area home last week, Dr. Alvin Kagey, one of the bite-mark experts called forensic odontologists who testified in Harwards trial, said it is possible Harward is innocent, but he stands by his work in the case.

In my opinion, this was a very unique situation. At that time bite-mark analysis was new, relatively, and there was a lot of publicity about it in the Tidewater area, and I think that people were taking it and adding maybe some of their own twists to it  not that they changed what we said  but their interpretation made it sound like this was set in concrete and its just not, Kagey said. I never say about a bite mark, He or she is the only person that could have done this. 

Garrett, after reviewing the trial transcript, is not persuaded the bite-mark testimony was valid and said he has learned a petition for a writ of actual innocence was filed by Harward earlier this month.

It was really, really, really disturbing to think you can just come across innocent peoples cases by accident like that.

Harward, 59, has not been exonerated. Lawyers with the Innocence Project and the Washington law firm of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom filed the innocence petition on March 4.

Proceedings have been stayed by the Virginia Supreme Court so that more DNA test results  said by Harwards lawyers to further support innocence  can be submitted to court.

Harward, in prison for 33 years, was convicted of the Sept. 14, 1982, slaying of Jesse Perron, a shipyard worker beaten to death with a crowbar by a man who then repeatedly sexually assaulted Perrons wife and inflicted bite marks on her leg.

Though they were together for hours, the house was unlit and the rape victim could not identify Harward as her assailant.

His lawyers say key evidence against the former Navy sailor in his 1986 trial was testimony from forensic odontologists who they say concluded Harwards teeth left the bite marks on the rape victim.

Harwards lawyers and Garrett believe the experts conclusions went beyond the kind now sanctioned by the American Board of Forensic Odontology, which certified the two experts.

In 2009, the same year Garrett was researching his law review article with co-author Peter Neufeld, one of the founders of the Innocence Project, a committee of the National Academy of Sciences found no scientific basis for bite-mark comparisons to be used to identify someone to the exclusion of all others.

After the 2009 academy report, the American Board of Forensic Odontology changed its standards, which now state that: Terms such as unconditional identification of a perpetrator, or identification without doubt are not sanctioned as final conclusions in an open population case. The standards also call for terminology that uses a lesser degree of specificity than unique.

The transcript of Harwards trial shows that Kagey and Dr. Lowell Levine, another forensic odontologist, were the last two witnesses called by the prosecutor, and they testified at length.

Each explained to the jury how they go about examining and comparing photographs of bite marks on bodies with models of suspects teeth and bite marks in wax made by the suspects teeth or models.

They said they look for similarities that could implicate suspects or differences that could clear them. They testified about similarities between Harwards teeth and the bite marks on the victim and that there were no discrepancies that could have ruled Harward out as the biter.

Shown his testimony, Kagey said some could interpret that he was excluding all others as the biter.

But that would not be my interpretation, he said. I could never say that this person did it, to the exclusion of everyone else.

The Harward case was one of nine Virginia nonexoneration rape and murder cases to which Garrett and Neufeld refer in their 2009 law review article, and the case is listed with others on the law schools website.

There was and is no scientific research to support making such aggressive claims about bite mark evidence, Garrett said. Not only are the conclusions overstated, but theres no criteria for how you reach them.

Even apart from making unscientific and invalid claims, the technique of bite-mark comparison is quite unreliable. We have seen case after case of exonerations where the marks were not made by the convicted person and some where they were not even human bite marks but rather insect bites or bruises, he said.

Harwards innocence petition contends, these forensic scientists ... presented to the jury what appeared at the time to be conclusive evidence of my guilt, but modern objective scientific scrutiny has more recently shown that this evidence entirely lacks reliability.
TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a dedicated volunteer - described as Mr Royal British Legion - who worked tirelessly to support veterans in Rotherham and beyond for more than 20 years.

Barry Wragg died after suffering a stroke on March 17 at the age of 82.

Mr Wragg, of Thrybergh, volunteered with the Territorial Army for more than 20 years and had been president of the Rotherham, Rawmarsh and Parkgate branch of the Royal British Legion (RBL) since 1997.

Christine Majer, RMBC lead officer for armed forces community covenant, worked with Mr Wragg on events such as Armed Forces Day and had known him for around six years.

She said: Barry was a central part, he was Mr Royal British Legion, always very helpful and keen.

He was always looking to do the best for the veterans in Rotherham, or in fact anywhere, it was at the core of him. He was a true gentleman.

He found it an honour to have served in Her Majestys armed forces, he was very proud of that \_ you could see that in everything he did.

Widow Cynthia Wragg said her husband died after becoming ill in the shower at their home in the morning.

Mrs Wragg said she had to help her husband out of the shower as his speech had become slurred and he vomited.

Paramedics arrived and he was taken to A&E at around 10am where doctors said he had suffered a stroke.

But Mr Wraggs condition rapidly deteriorated and he suffered a seizure.

He was transferred to the stroke ward but died at around 9pm surrounded by his family.

Mrs Wragg (77) said: It was horrendous, it was such a shock to everybody. We cant believe it as he had been up and about in the morning.

Mr Wragg, who also supported Rotherham Sea Cadets, was originally from Parsons Cross, Sheffield, and met his Herringthorpe-born wife on a blind date after he had finished his national service.

His brother Peter, who was in the RAF, also met Cynthias friend on the double date.

Mrs Wragg added: I was 17 when we first met and he was five years older than me.

The couple married in 1961 and welcomed their son Martin six years later, followed by daughter Jacqueline in 1970.

Mr Wragg also leaves behind granddaughters Holly (10) and Laura (14).

Mrs Wragg said she did everything with her husband who was well liked and very popular.

Mayor of Rotherham, Maggi Clarke, said she was saddened to hear of his passing.

The mayor added: He worked tirelessly for the Royal British Legion.

I last saw him on Remembrance Day when he recited a poem at the service.

Chairwoman of the Rotherham RBL branch, Kathleen Roden, said Mr Wragg would be hard to replace.

She added: He was a lovely man, a true gentleman. He never went out without a shirt and tie on.

Everybody liked him, its a big loss.

Mr Wragg will have a military funeral with a guard of honour at Rotherham Crematorium on April 6.
SOLICITORS believe the closure of custody suites at Rotherhams police station will limit peoples access to justice in the town.

South Yorkshire Police will officially open a new 12 million custody suite on April 5 to cover arrests from Sheffield and Rotherham.

But Hester Russell, head of criminal law at Harthills Solicitors, said the closure of the Main Street facilities - along with Rotherham Magistrates Court - could be a disaster for the town.

Mrs Russell said: While the new premises are impressive, the impact on Rotherham folk has not been thought through.

This is yet another move that will limit access to justice in our town.

The Ministry of Justice announced last month it will close Rotherham magistrates, county and family courts by the end of the year.

It means witnesses and defendants face a trip to Sheffield Magistrates Court for hearings.

Mrs Russell said: For months, Rotherham Main Street police station has only been open to the public on a part-time basis.

I have come across people desperately trying to report crimes through an intercom, sometimes in the pouring rain.

In my view, the situation will soon go from bad to worse and I dont think theres much that can be done to improve the situation.

South Yorkshire Police said replacing outdated custody suites in Rotherham and Sheffield with the new 50-cell facility will save the force around 1.2 million per year.

The new suite, on Shepcote Lane, Sheffield, will also be the new home for investigative officers and health and social services staff.

Chief Insp Stuart Walne, head of custody, said: The facilities provide a more professional and supportive environment for officers, solicitors and detainees on the border of Rotherham and Sheffield.

Most solicitors have given positive feedback so it would be useful to understand why some may feel any limit to access to justice.

Full legal provision will be maintained and the facilities to support solicitors working on site are far in advance of anything available elsewhere in the county, and indeed the region.

Its worth considering that a key goal of justice is preventing re-offending and the increased access to health services that comes with the new suite will be a significant step to that aim.

Chief Con David Crompton said: Custody staff have one of the most challenging roles in policing South Yorkshire and the new centre provides them with integrated, modern facilities to manage high-risk situations and return officers to the streets at the earliest possible opportunity.

The centre is also a real step forward with investigating officers and partners co-located with the custody staff, providing a more effective service when dealing with some of our most difficult customers.

Dr Alan Billings, police and crime commissioner, said the new centre will save money as existing facilities are unsuitable and expensive to run.
CHIEF Constable David Crompton said it was unfortunate his retirement was announced on the same day as a critical CSE report.

South Yorkshire Polices top cop played down any link with the Drew review, which called the forces past dealings inadequate.

Chief Con Crompton (52) said his decision to step down this November had been agreed months ago with police commissioner Dr Alan Billings.

He added: The Drew review is clear that South Yorkshire Police is making good progress in tackling child sexual exploitation, and this will remain a key priority for me for the next seven months.
Halcyon Agri Corp. Ltd, a Singapore natural rubber supply chain manager, announced Monday that it has signed deals with Sinochem International Corp. to join forces to create a global natural rubber powerhouse. Following completion of the deals, Sinochem will be the majority shareholder of Halcyon Agri, which will be the holding company of the expanded group.

Sinochem will acquire a 30.07% shareholding in Halcyon Agri for S$0.75 cents per share in cash and make a mandatory general offer to all shareholders of Halcyon Agri at the same price. Certain shareholders of Halcyon Agri have also provided undertakings such that Sinochem's shareholding in Halcyon Agri following completion of the MGO will be no less than 53.98%.

Subsequent to the MGO, Halcyon Agri will make a voluntary general offer for GMG Global Ltd at an exchange ratio of 0.9333 Halcyon Shares for each GMG Global Share. Sinochem has undertaken to accept the VGO in respect of its 51.1% shareholding.

Halcyon Agri would acquire Sinochem's natural rubber , including its 51% majority stake in GMG Global Ltd, trading business, and China and Malaysia processing factories.

Halcyon Agri will acquire Sinochem's natural rubber processing assets for consideration of 280 million Halcyon Shares.

The company expects the transaction to create the world's largest and most comprehensive natural rubber supply chain manager with combined revenues in excess of $2.3 billion.

In the upstream segment, the combined business would have 153,000 ha of land in Africa and South East Asia. In the midstream processing segment, the combined business would have 35 processing facilities spanning Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, China and Africa with a total annual processing capacity of approximately 1.5 million tonnes.

The transactions are subject to, among others, the approval of Halcyon Agri shareholders at an extraordinary general meeting and regulatory and competition approvals in certain jurisdictions.

Final completion of the transactions is expected by the end of third quarter.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
As per media reports, Dell Inc. (DELL) is nearing an agreement on the sale of the company's non-core IT consulting division to NTT DATA Corp., based in Japan. The sale is reportedly valued at approximately $3.5 billion. NTT Data will acquire around 28,000 employees located in India and North America from Dell Inc.

Headquartered in Tokyo, with operations in more than 40 countries, NTT DATA put emphasis on long-term commitment and combine global reach and local intimacy to provide premier professional services from consulting, system development to business IT outsourcing.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
See all our Week 9 Iowa high school football photos

All of our images from Friday night's Iowa high school football games, Week 9 of the 2022 season.
Ahead of a speech by Hillary Clinton, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, accused the former Secretary of State of trying to change the subject from the ongoing controversy about her use of a private email server.

In a statement, Grassley cited a Washington Post story he claims raises serious concerns about Clinton's email practices with regard to both national security and circumventing the people's right to know through the Freedom of Information Act.

The statement comes as Clinton is expected to deliver a speech attacking Grassley for refusing to hold hearings on President Barack Obama's nomination of federal appeals court judge Merrick Garland to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Grassley has argued the nomination of a new justice should not be considered until a new president is elected, allowing for a full and robust debate at the grass roots about the direction of the court.

"This is simply a blatant attempt by Secretary Clinton to politicize the Supreme Court and to change the conversation after a damaging story about her in The Washington Post," Grassley said of Clinton's speech.

Grassley noted Clinton's actions as Secretary of State are under investigation by Congress, two Obama-appointed inspectors general, and the FBI.

"It's no wonder Secretary Clinton doesn't want to let the American people have a voice in the direction of the Supreme Court," Grassley said.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Political News
50% of Indian mobile users wish to upgrade to new device in 5G era

About 50 per cent of smartphone users in India plan to buy a new device within the first year as 5G ...
One of the great things about a newspaper is that you dont have to read it carefully from beginning to end.

Its designed to be browsed and maybe reread in parts at some later stage of the day.

A lot of our readers are browsers and while some may do a cursory flick through to see if anything catches their eyes, after looking at the front page story, many will turn to a specific section such as sport, the Samoan section, BTL or the classifieds - depending on their area of interest.

Others might make a beeline the Opinion section with the Editorial, Opinions and the Letters to the Editor.

If you are the kind of person who enjoys a good debate or a plain old argument, there is usually something there for everyone.

Opinions. Everyone has one, and in my view, it helps make the world go around.

In our front page story today, an opinion voiced by a Village Council and later endorsed by the Lands and Titles Court, had a profound effect on a family and a village. After nine years of banishment and what appears to be a clarification of village jurisdiction issued by the Court, the family is returning home to resume their lives.

With the ink on the papers from the elections barely dry, there are still plenty of opinions out there about appointments, those who missed out or got in, and the myriad reasons behind the P.M.s choices for Ministers and Associate Ministers.

Given that he probably needed to employ the wisdom of Solomon to make those decisions, it may well have come down to a balancing act of experience, talent, age, islands and districts, male and female and rewards and punishments and a hefty dose of cunning and guile.

Still it will keep us talking for the next five years.

Getting conversations going about issues that are important is another area where everyones opinion is worth considering; particularly when it is followed by action.

Several recent issues that come to mind are domestic abuse and women as leaders.

The airing of opinions about domestic abuse regardless of the uncomfortable feelings and shame it has thrown up has had a marked effect on our society and how we want it to be.

Of course it hasnt solved every problem but we have all learned a little bit more and can no longer claim to be unaware.

There is support and knowledge and change that wasnt there a few years ago.

Women as leaders has also attracted a great deal of discussion  by women themselves, but also by men; many of whom have always known what women bring to the table (as well as the food!)

A quick look to see who are running many of our Government Departments, businesses, our Faculties at the National University of Samoa as well as their own families, will provide you with a few opinions about women and their leadership skills.

Last week, we had an amazingly diverse number of opinions from our readers and contributors about what should be done about the student fighting problem.

Some of the suggestions were downright scary and would have fitted neatly in to the laws and decisions of some of the countries in the world where we are lucky enough not to live.

On the opposite page, we have an opinion from one T Samatua which strikes a chord. The writer is looking back, noting changes and talks about looking within ourselves for answers rather than just at those who are in the spotlight for their bad behaviour.

And then in a column on this page, we have another opinion by our columnist Rebecca Lolo about our tendency to always want to apportion blame  to someone, anyone.

Interesting opinions to reflect upon as we come to the end of our Easter holiday and celebration.
The film launch of Moana: Rising of the Sea production which took place just over a week ago has raised well over $25,000 tala for the Fijian children who were victims of cyclone Winston.

The event, which had Apollo Cinema overflowing with people was a success as members of corporate bodies enjoyed the sponsored drinks from Vailima Breweries while making donations and bidding on the amazing auction prizes.

The idea of the event came from the well-known producer and director Seiuli Allan Alo with assistance from Fiji Airways and the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.

The finalized amount raised from the fundraiser was not available because funds are still coming in through pledges but Seiuli assured the Samoa Observer that it will be well over 25,000 tala.

Once all pledges are in, the money will be sent over to the organization Save the Children Fiji who will manage the distribution.

Cecil Leger the Samoan manager of Fiji Airways told Samoa Observer during an interview at the event why they had opted to help the children of Fiji.

Our focus has been the children because the government has already received millions of dollars in aid which has been channeled into various affected areas, Mr. Leger said.

Wed rather focus on the children so this money can be spent for their needs, whether it be for counseling to get over the trauma, or just the basic necessities for their schools and livelihoods.

But none of this would be possible without the support of the people of Samoa who lent a helping hand.

Companies in Samoa opened their hearts wide to lend support for the worthy cause.

We had companies come on board who donated cash, companies who came and donated the food and drinks, and even Apollo Cinemas donated the venue for free which is something that they normally dont do, Mr. Leger said. We have been very thankful that the companies and individuals have come and opened their hearts and dug deep to support the event.
The Ministry of Police and the Samoa Prisons and Correctional Services are still searching for two prisoners who have been at large since the beginning of last year.

The two escapees are Valufitu Fiu Uolilo and Pati Chong Nee.

Mr Uolilo left the country for Australia and police are still looking for him.

The spokesperson of the Samoa Prisons and Correctional Services Sagaga Galu Frost said Mr Uolilos case has been handed over to the Ministry of Police for investigation.

However there have been no updates from the Police on thecase.

Sagaga also confirmed that Mr Chong Nee is still nowhere to be found. Efforts to locate him have been unsuccessful. The accused Uolilo, was sentenced to prison for two years for causing actual bodily harm and being armed with dangerous weapons.

According to the Media Officer of the Ministry of Police Maotaoalii Kaioneta Kitiona he said they still havent received any updates on Mr Uolilos whereabouts.
Japan's government said Monday that it will stick to its policy of not possessing nuclear weapons, after U.S. presidential hopeful Donald Trump said he would be open to the idea of Japan and South Korea having their own atomic arsenals.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters that the country's "three principles" of not owning, making or allowing nuclear weapons "remain an important basic policy of the government."

Trump said in an interview with The New York Times published Sunday that asking Japan and South Korea to pay more for their own defense "could mean nuclear."

He said the issue "at some point is something that we have to talk about."

Suga, Japan's top government spokesman, declined to comment specifically on Trump's statement, saying he is only running for the presidency at this point. Suga expressed confidence that the U.S.-Japan alliance will remain a pillar of Japanese policy, no matter who wins the U.S. presidential election in November.

The U.S. stations tens of thousands of troops in Japan and South Korea, and both are key U.S. allies in the Pacific. Trump said he would withdraw those troops if Japan and South Korea don't contribute more to their cost.

South Korean Defense Ministry spokesman Moon Sang Gyun said he had no comment on Trump's remarks. Asked in general about a U.S. troop withdrawal, he said South Korea believes that its alliance with the United States remains strong.

North Korea's development of nuclear weapons has prompted questions about whether other Asian nations would feel the need to follow suit.

State Department spokesman John Kirby also declined to address Trump's statement, but said nothing has changed about the seriousness with which the U.S. takes its treaty commitments to Japan and South Korea and its view on the need for denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

- AP
10TH MAIN, ISRO LAYOUT, Bangalore -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/27/2016 -- 4iG Nyrt (4iG), formerly Freesoft Szoftverfejleszto & Szolg. Nyrt is an information technology company that provides software solutions. The company offers business intelligent solutions, software development and marketing and IT products and consulting programs. Its business intelligence solutions include data warehousing, business intelligence, planning solutions and field of document and records management. The company offers IT based solutions such as application development, enterprise management systems, introduction of system integration, network construction, operations, IT security solutions and research and development. It operates through its affiliates. 4iG is headquartered in Budapest, Hungary.



This comprehensive SWOT profile of 4iG Nyrt provides you an in-depth strategic analysis of the company's businesses and operations. The profile has been compiled by Publisher to bring to you a clear and an unbiased view of the company's key strengths and weaknesses and the potential opportunities and threats. The profile helps you formulate strategies that augment your business by enabling you to understand your partners, customers and competitors better.



This company report forms part of Publisher's 'Profile on Demand' service, covering over 50,000 of the world's leading companies. Once purchased, Publisher's highly qualified team of company analysts will comprehensively research and author a full financial and strategic analysis of 4iG Nyrt including a detailed SWOT analysis, and deliver this direct to you in pdf format within two business days. (excluding weekends).



The profile contains critical company information including,



- Business description  A detailed description of the company's operations and business divisions.

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Dover, DE -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Africa solar photovoltaic (PV) market size is anticipated to witness substantial growth by 2023 and is likely to grow at a CAGR of over 10% from 2016 to 2023. The spur in the industry can be dedicated to high electricity prices accompanied by increasing government initiatives towards renewable energy is expected to drive the industry growth over the forecast period. In addition, solar irradiation is also likely to propel industry demand.



Browse Latest Industry Research Report on Global Africa Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Market: https://www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/africa-solar-photovoltaic-pv-market



Government established renewable energy independent power producer program (REIPPP) is anticipated to significantly contribute to the Africa solar PV market. Proliferating advancements outside of the procurement program is likely to open up huge growth avenues for the PV market as solar is now the preferred energy source due to increasing prices of retail electricity over upcoming years. East and South Africa solar PV market is likely to lead regional industry development.



Africa solar power industry is expected to boost its alternative energy capacities by installing large number of large scale photovoltaic power stations. Increasing demand for electricity, rising awareness about environment sustainability accompanied by the benefits of resorting to renewable energy sources is expected to drive the industry demand. In addition, attributes such as superior output efficiency, economical solar PV installation cost and affordable maintenance is expected to positively impact the industry growth. Falling prices along with favorable government regulations and schemes might boost the industry over the forecast period.



Get Detail TOC: https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/upcoming-detail/251



Cost optimization offered by these systems is expected to intensify the industry demand. Proliferating installation of these systems is likely to encourage job creation, stimulate local economies and also deliver low cost energy. Rising blackout threats and increasing load shedding frequency might propel the industry growth from 2016 to 2023.



South Africa solar PV market size should experience significant gains, since 2013 a number of plants have been commissioned, which include the Jasper Project of 96 MW. This station offers power for over 30,000 homes and is one of Africa's largest. South Africa is anticipated to be very ideal solar technology implementations, as most of the areas in the region receive more than 2,500 hours of sunlight over the year. This can be attributed to the equatorial location of the region, thus ultimately aids in generating optimal electricity and also aid the systems to work even on cloudy days. Due to electricity price hikes in the region, solar energy is expected to become much viable cost efficient as well as viable option for the businesses in the region. Even the installation of the systems involve high initial investment, it can be recouped within a period of five to eight years on an average from the date of installation. Implementation of these systems also offer attractive savings model to the numerous businesses owing to striking internal rate of return (IRR) offered considering the solar electricity it then gets free of cost once the initial payback period is completed.



Although this clean source of energy is steadily growing, the ignorance about the technology among the people might hamper industry growth in the region. As the region has enjoyed many years of readily available thermal power the mind set change among the people might take a little longer. Providing guidance on the initial outlay for purchasing solar PV might furnish massive growth avenues for Africa solar PV market over the several upcoming years. For instance, the domestic government recognizes the value for public-private joint ventures in development of solar projects. RustMo1 Solar Farm with 7 MWs production capacity is one of the instances. The unit is already connected to the national grid and is now generating power for Eskom.



Africa solar PV market can be segmented on the basis of grid type, by technology and by end use. On the basis of grid type it can be segregated into grid-connected and off-grid. Based on technology the industry can be segregated into thin film PV as well as crystalline PV. On the basis of end use the industry can be segmented into residential, commercial as well as utility-scale.



Key industry participants occupying major Africa solar PV market share include Dream Quest Enterprises, Setsolar, Sunnywin Energy, Tenesol Manufacturing (PTY), Yandalux and SolaireDirect Technologies among others.



REC, a Norwegian company, announced intent to enter the East and South Africa solar PV market in June 2015. The company anticipates 100 GW of solar PV installed capacity by 2030.



About Global Market Insights

Global Market Insights, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider; offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy and biotechnology.
Las Vegas, NV -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Altu Bracelets is an Azerbaijan based organization that manufactures beautifully designed bracelets made of pure carbon fiber. Some of their bracelets are also manufactured using Swarovski crystal. At present, the company also has a Swiss watch project.



The products manufactured by Altu Bracelets have already received an excellent response from the market in Azerbaijan. The company is confident that their products will be accepted by the consumers all over the world. The company does have some competitors in the global market. However, their carbon fiber bracelets are inexpensive compared to the existing global brands.



To fund the global expansion of the company and the launch of the Swiss watches, Altu Bracelets has recently started an Indiegogo campaign. Funds received from this campaign will be used for the company's expansion and the creation of a prototype of the Swiss watch. The funding budget of this campaign is $22,000. A series of attractive perks are being given away to the contributors by Altu Bracelets.



To find out more about this campaign, please visit http://bit.ly/1UHmR00



About Altu Bracelets

Altu Bracelets is an Azerbaijan based organization that manufactures beautifully designed bracelets made of pure carbon fiber and Swarovski crystal. The company is looking to expand globally with funding support from Indiegogo.
Jackson, MI -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Board-certified plastic surgeon, John Sampson, M.D offers a full range of plastic surgery procedures and medical SPA services at his clinic Argyle Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. John Sampson is one of the best and the most widely-recommended plastic surgeon in Michigan. He has practiced plastic surgery in Michigan for more than 2 decades now, which has helped him develop expert aesthetic perspective due to which his plastic surgery procedures are always natural-looking.



"Dr. Sampson is committed to the highest level of excellence in the art and science of plastic surgery while pledging empathy and compassion for all patients. If a person plans to select plastic surgery procedures by Dr. John Sampson, they are making a smart choice because they are selecting a surgeon who puts his patient's safety and satisfaction above all other goals.", stated the spokesperson of Argyle Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.



Dr. John Sampson is well-known for his cosmetic surgery procedures. He offers a good range of different cosmetic plastic surgery procedures at his clinic Argyle Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery including Facelift, Upper & Lower Eyelid Surgery, Brow Lift Surgery, Breast Augmentation, Breast Implant Options, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Liposuction, Smartlipo, Tummy Tuck, Post Weight Loss Procedures, Buttock Augmentation and many other procedures.



Apart from that, Dr. Sampson also offers the best medical SPA services including various treatment regimens to care for a variety of skin problems like fine lines, dark skin spots, and uneven complexions. The procedures offered by Dr. Sampson to treat these and many other more skin related problems include Skin Therapies including Thermage, TriActive Laser, BOTOX Cosmetic, Dermal Fillers, Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, and Acne Therapy; Hair Removal including Laser Hair Removal and Waxing; and Vein Reduction including Vein Therapy and Laser Vein Removal.



Dr. Sampson gives individual attention to every patient of his and spends time with each of his patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that can achieve an attractive, naturally-enhanced appearance. "At Argyle Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, our patients are not just our customers, they are like family members to us, so we try our level best to provide them as much guidance, attention and care as possible because their satisfaction is our satisfaction", stated the spokesperson of Argyle Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.



About John Sampson, M.D.

John Sampson, M.D. graduated from Howard University College of Medicine before completing over 10 years of medical training and research with organizations including The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Henry Ford Medical Center, and the University of Texas Medical Branch.Dr. Sampson is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.



For more information, please check http://www.argyleplasticsurgery.com/



517-780-0080 or 800-809-4320

South Central Michigan
Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- EDM Hip Hop artist Frequency will release his long awaited EDM side (Lightning) of the double genre, double album; "Fire And Lightning" this Tuesday on all digital download services (I Tunes, Spotify, Shazzam, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Google Play, Tidal, etc). Fans can also buy the CD and find relevant links here: https://www.cdbaby.com/cd/frequency62. The artist has been busy perfecting his craft over the last 8 months. He has recorded over 40 songs, a good portion of which are in his self created genre EDM Hip Hop or EDM rap. The album features a few celebrity guests such as Baby Bash on the EDM party smash "Tonight" which also features Ashe (another Hood And Associates artist). The song "Lightspeed" features famed battle rapper Daylyt and is a beautifully orchestrated song, with deep emotional sounds and lyrics. Both the artists really shine lyrically on "Lightspeed". Cult icon, world famous pimp, Snoop Dogg's spiritual advisor Bishop Don Magic Juan lends his preaching on songs like; "Pimpin", and "Click Clack". The controversial song "SXX" which recently got the artist some nasty messages from parents and censors, has a women sexually climaxing in the song. Last winter Frequency, no stranger to hot women and the wild lifestyle, released a video for "The Long Run" which was also seen as too risque. That song is sadly not featured on this part of the album. The song "So Clear" has amazing female vocals which shine bright and make the listener motivated for a "better life". Ram Rock sings a very soulful hook on the EDM turn up song "Fantasy". The 16 song epic "Fire And Lightning" is available also in limited edition hard copy on http://www.hoodandtalent.com. The rap ("Fire") side of the album will come out in Summer 2016 and showcases Frequency's amazing rap ability on songs like "Desolition", "The Long Run" and more. "Fire And Lightning" was recorded at Park Style r



Frequency in Examiner Magazine



Arizona rapper Frequency is preparing to release his new album "Fire and Lightning  The Lightning Side" this month via Hood and Talent Records. The amateur rapper has already released some new tracks from the upcoming LP called "Crank it Up" and "Click Clack." This LP acts as the follow up to his 2015 debut called "The Frequency." Frequency, real name Chandler Kerns, tries to deliver a unique brand of rap by blending hip hop beats with EDM drops. It sounds interesting at times, but has a hard time finding its footing.



September 2015 press release Frequency Signed to Hood And Associates



The Hood And Associates music label is proud to announce it has signed its second official artist to its roster a rap artist out of Mesa, Arizona called Frequency. In what rapper ditch calls the Frequency project, Ditch says; "I am very excited to work with this young artist he is unique and has a different sound for rap. I think his style mixed with some of the electronic heavy beats and he will be around for years to come. He has fast lyrics with methodical storytelling embedded inside his writing". The artist hails out of Scottsdale, Arizona and raps about real life situations. Producer and rap artist Pro will be recording the album alongside Ditch in South San Francisco California at Pro's Park Style Records studio.



Randolph Hood will also add to the production of the album as well as mixing done at hybrid studios in Orange County, California. Frequency spoke on the life changing moment for him "I am so honored to be a part of this label I came to California with just a dream of performing for these guys to show them what I had and I left with a record deal and a signed contract I'm so excited that they're investing into me and my album to get it done and get it done right. Not only that I'm super excited to work with the legendary producers and possible celebrity guests they're providing"...



He continues; "I have seen ditches work over the years and it followed his movements I can't believe he's now helping me become a success". Hood And Associates have set up a temporary website while they build their main frame website at http://www.hoodandtalent.com there you can see FREQUENCY's page as well as the other band and the new trailer for FREQUENCY's upcoming project. Up and coming artists are encouraged to upload their resumes and samples of music for review by the A and R team at the label.



Frequency has just recorded a song called "Alternate State" featuring Lil Nate Dogg (son of music icon Nate Dogg). He has recorded a few songs at Hybrid Studios in Santa Ana, California. He will also be recording his new debut cd at Park Style Records (Pro's studio), Pro is also providing 12 hot bay area beats for the project, in South San Francisco, California this Fall 2015. Hood And Associates have plans to have him team up with other celebrity guests for his debut CD.



About The Hood And Associates

Hood and Associates- the fast emerging company out of Orange County, California- have been working hard to find good talent for their blossoming label and Management Company. They have already signed a Young band out of Palm Desert California that has been hard at work in the studio working on their debut album. The band is a young teenage sensation playing alternative electronic EDM music. That band is produced by Ditch, Randolph Hood, Ronnie King and Alvin Taylor. The band has already recorded 12 songs one of which features Sen Dog of Cypress Hill. News on that project will be announced as soon as fall or winter 2015.
Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Description



GBI Research, a leading business intelligence provider, has released its latest research report: "Glioblastoma Multiforme Therapeutics in Major Developed Markets to 2019 - Growth to Hinge on the Success of Personalized Vaccine Following Early Approval in Germany". Due to the poor prognosis under currently available treatments, therapies with high potency are in strong demand in the Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) market. In newly diagnosed patients, the current standard of care, comprising resection surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy with Merck's Temodar (temozolomide), has a maximum Overall Survival (OS) of 15 months and almost inevitable tumor recurrence. Current therapeutic options for recurrent GBM are Roche's Avastin (bevacizumab), carmustine and other chemotherapy drugs used off-label. However, they only offer limited OS benefit, leaving high unmet need in this patient segment. During the 20122019 forecast period, the GBM market is expected to grow rapidly from $305m to $583m. The market entry of Northwest Biotherapeutics' DCVax-L, a dendritic cell-based therapeutic vaccine that acts as an add-on to the standard treatment in newly diagnosed patients, will account for much of this growth. Having demonstrated superior OS improvement compared with the standard treatment alone in clinical trials, it is expected to bear high market potential, given that its efficacy is translated into larger Phase III trials. The cancer vaccine Rindopepimut (CDX-110) and targeted therapy Cotara will also enter the GBM market, but will drive growth to a lesser extent. However, unmet needs are likely to remain in the relapsed setting over the forecast period due to the lack of superior OS benefits in the late-stage pipeline.



View Full Report at: http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/analysis/206655



Scope



A brief introduction to GBM, including the disease pathogenesis, risk factors and diagnosis

In-depth analysis of the drugs available for the treatment of GBM, including safety, efficacy, treatment patterns, and strengths and weaknesses, as well as a heat map comparing drugs in terms of safety and efficacy

A comprehensive review of the developmental pipeline for GBM, including individual analysis of a number of late-stage pipeline drugs that are likely to enter the market during the forecast period, with the pipeline analyzed by Phase distribution, molecule type and molecular target

Additional in-depth analysis of GBM clinical trials by Phase, molecule type, trial size, trial duration and program failure rate

Multi-scenario forecast data for the GBM market to 2019, taking into account the introduction of new drugs, the expiry of key patents and the changes in disease epidemiology across the key developed markets of the US, Canada, Japan, Germany, the UK, France, Italy and Spain

Discussion of the drivers of and barriers to market growth

Discussion of the licensing and co-development deals landscape in GBM



Download Detail Report With Complete TOC at: http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/206655



Reasons to Buy



Understand the different levels of GBM therapies for newly diagnosed and recurrent GBM Understand the vast scope of the pipeline and determine which molecule types and mechanisms of action are prominent

Observe the trends in clinical trial duration and size by clinical Phase and molecule type, and use the clinical trial failure rate analysis to assess the risk profiles of current and/or future developmental programs for GBM therapeutics

Assess the potential clinical and commercial impact of current late-stage pipeline molecules on the GBM therapeutics market



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Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Description



Market Snapshot: Glucose Monitoring Devices 2006 to 2020 Benelux and Scandinavia (Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark and Norway)" provides quantitative analysis of the two glucose monitoring devices market segments: blood glucose meters and blood glucose test strips. The analysis includes market size data by revenue and volume over the 20062020 period and key company share data by revenue and volume in 2013 for the following countries: are Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. It uses data and information sourced from proprietary databases, primary and secondary research and in-house analysis by GBI Research's team of industry experts.



View Full Report at: http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/analysis/242782



Scope



Information on market size for the two glucose monitoring devices market segments: blood glucose meters and blood glucose test strips

Annualized sales data by revenue for the 20062020 period and company share data by revenue for 2013

Annualized sales data by volume for the 20062020 period and company share data by volume for 2013

Coverage of key geographies: are Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden, Denmark and Norway



Download Detail Report With Complete TOC at: http://www.marketresearchreports.biz/sample/sample/207985



Reasons to buy



Derive actionable insights from value-volume relationships

Analyze value-volume relationships and provide direction to marketing and sales strategies

Develop market-entry and market-expansion strategies

Identify the key players best positioned to take advantage of opportunities in the European market



Table of Content



1 Table of Contents

1 Table of Contents 2

1.1 List of Tables 4

1.2 List of Figures 5



2 Introduction 7



2.1 GBI Research Report Guidance 7



3 Glucose Monitoring Device Definitions 7



3.1 Blood Glucose Meters 7

3.1.1 Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems 7

3.1.2 Traditional Blood Glucose Meters 7

3.2 Blood Glucose Test Strips 7



4 Glucose Monitoring Devices Market, Benelux, Revenue, 20062020 8



4.1 Glucose Monitoring Devices Market, Benelux, Revenue ($m), 20062013 8

4.2 Glucose Monitoring Devices Market, Benelux, Revenue ($m), 20132020 8



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We are a one stop solution for all your research needs, our main offerings are syndicated research

reports, custom research, subscription access and consulting services. We serve all sizes and types

of companies spanning across various industries.



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Sacramento, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- In the world of today, financial troubles are inadmissible. One can never tell in advance, what sum of money will be needed to handle specific problems that emerge out of a sudden, be it house renovation, household situations, unexpected auto repairs and what not. With that said, it is crucial to know where to get the money in the quickest time possible. To facilitate the task for the residents of Alaska and a number of other US states, 24biz.biz has launched a new reliable service that makes it possible to get instant payday loans online.



24Biz is an online resource, the basic goal of which is to grant payday loans to people living in Alaska. The service enjoys popularity with Alaska residents due to its reliability, convenience, 24/7 availability and trouble-free application process. This is what the specialists working for the company tell about it: "Obtaining a loan may be quite an overwhelming and time-taking task, which is a great inconvenience for people, who are too busy both at home and at work to handle their financial issues for such a long period of time. So, we have decided to make this process easier and trouble-free by offering assistance in obtaining short-term loans during the day and with the most favorable conditions for You!"



The 24/7 online payday loans offered by 24BIZ are provided without any faxing needs, hidden charges, credit check info and other conditions and terms that are a must in other companies. The service is popular across the US, mainly in those states, where payday loans are 100% legit. Alaska is not an exception. Although, the state ranks second after Nevada in the gold production industry and gives around 8% of silver mining in the country, this does not means that the residents of the area do not require immediate financial support from time to time. At "24Biz", they can get this support in less than no time.



The process of applying for a loan at the website is quick and easy. Having filled out an application form, it just takes around 5 minutes for the site's pros to find the best direct creditor. This ensures the cheapest payday loans in the country and the quickest deposits of the required sums of money. Each client may get from $100 and up to $1000 depending upon a number of factors. To be able to apply for a loan in Alaska, a person has to be the US resident, possess certain income and be over 18 years of age.



It is also possible to get a loan in one of the Alaska off-line credit stores of the company, the most suitable of which is located in Anchorage.



For more information, please, visit http://24biz.biz/payday-loans/AK/



About 24biz

24biz is the service which offers online payday loans to people living in the Unites States, including Alaska. The company has rich experience in granting instant loans under the most suitable and favorable conditions. The whole process of applying for a loan does not take longer than 5-7 minutes. The company does not charge any hidden fees for the services provided and no credit check is required to get the loan. They offer different loan sums, ranging from $100 and up to $1000. The service is available both online and offline any time of the day.



Contact Info:

Contact Person: Marina Kingston

Address: 2021 E 3rd St., Sacramento, CA, USA

Tel.: (916) 333-0645

E-mail: 24biz.biz@gmail.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/24biz.biz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/24biz.biz/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/24biz_biz

Google+: https://plus.google.com/117727819204179331206/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/24biz

Website: http://24biz.biz/payday-loans/AK/
Germantown, TN -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2016 -- Dr. Philip Langsdon, the founder of The Langsdon Clinic in Memphis, TN discusses the benefits of Vectra 3D imaging system in detail. Vectra 3D Imaging is a state-of-the-art simulation system that uses high-resolution color image cameras to take several pictures of a patient from all angles. The captured images are combined to create a 3-dimensional image based on a targeted facial area.



Using this system, Dr. Langsdon presents a three-dimensional image of a patient's face during their consultation, prior to surgery. The image can be manipulated and altered to fill a patient's desires and provide expectations of the end result of a cosmetic facial procedure. The 3D images allow patients to preview the results of different surgical options and decide which procedure satisfies their personal goals. Vectra 3D Imaging also provides real-time analysis and measurements for surgical planning.



Vectra 3D imaging system maps the surface of a patient's anatomy, allowing the image to be rotated in any direction. This software simulation tool can be used for a variety of cosmetic procedures including facelift, rhinoplasty, chin augmentation and eyelid surgery. According to Dr. Langsdon, the entire Vectra 3D Imaging procedure takes only a few minutes and patients can review the results during the initial consultation.



With the Vectra 3D Imaging System, Dr. Langsdon will develop the best surgical plan that suits your anatomy The addition of the Vectra 3D simulation software to the practice is a testament to Dr. Langsdon's commitment to providing the best tools to achieve your personal goals.



With over 25 years of experience in facial cosmetic surgery, Dr. Langsdon is a leader in his field. In fact, he is the only plastic surgeon in the mid-South whose surgical practice is focused on plastic surgery of the face and nose. Dr. Langsdon was also voted as one of "America's Top Plastic Surgeons," and "America's Best Doctors."



Experience Vectra 3D today by booking an initial consultation with Dr. Langsdon. Contact us today to learn more about how you can "Sculpt Your Dream" with Dr. Langsdon and Vectra 3D.



About The Langsdon Clinic

The Langsdon Clinic provides world class expertise in Facelift, Rhinoplasty (nose surgery, nose job), Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery, eyelift), Otoplasty (surgery for prominent ears), Chin Augmentation, Lip Reduction, Lip Enlargement, and Hair Transplantation under the care of Dr. Langsdon. The Langsdon Clinic has operated a state of Tennessee licensed surgical center since 1993. Dr. Langsdon and his team of experts use state-of-the-art equipment and believe in providing natural results and compassionate care, in a comfortable, personal, private, and convenient atmosphere.



The Langsdon Clinic staff also provides expert non-surgical facial aesthetics, such as neuro-modulation (Botox, Dysport, Xeomin), dermal fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, Belotero, Voluma XC), Kybella and customized medical grade skincare (FaceMD). Dr. Langsdon directs medical education programs that teach other providers the latest techniques in facial injections and skin improvement. The Langsdon Clinic was the first clinic in the Mid-South to both study and later provide Botox treatments. The Langsdon Clinic was also one of the first clinics in the U.S. to participate in many of the injectable filler test programs. As with our surgical recommendations, we will recommend only what we feel is beneficial to our patients.



For more information on The Langsdon Clinic, please call 901-755-6465 or visit www.drlangsdon.com.



MEDIA CONTACT:

Aesthetic Brand Marketing  Jennifer Cho

E-mail: jcho@aestheticbrandmarketing.com

Website: www.aestheticbrandmarketing.com

The Langsdon Clinic

Location: 7499 Poplar Pike, Germantown, TN 38138

Website: www.drlangsdon.com
A Japanese research fleet has killed hundreds of whales, including pregnant ones, in the name of scientific research. According to a report, Japanese researchers have killed more than 300 whales for a scientific research in the Antarctic.

Commercial hunting of whales has been banned by the United Nations (UN) since 1986, but that does not include the killing of whales for scientific research. While the Japanese researchers have claimed that they killed the pregnant whales to determine the age of maturity of the whales, many have pointed to the fact that the leftover meat is actually sold in the market.

It has been reported that Japanese boats have been into whaling for quite a long time. The leftover meat actually ends up on the plates of whale meat lovers and many doubt that the research tag is just for show. The intentions of Japanese researchers seems doubtful as killing of 333 whale carcasses don't justify the little reason to study the maturity age of whales.

A UN International Court of Justice, or ICJ, had banned such whaling practices in 2014. The court has questioned the legitimacy of such scientific research processes where a big chunk of the subjects wound up on diners' plates. Whale meat is a popular delicacy in Japan, and the restaurants continue selling it even when it has been actually banned by the UN.

The actual reason for killing so many pregnant whales have been unclear and the UN has noted that Japanese boats have been overdoing research, killing enormous number of whales in the Antarctic and justifying the killings by tagging it as a scientific process.

It is unknown whether the UN is going to take any initiative to stop killing the whales, but the hunting has brought worldwide attention to see and judge such whaling practices that could threaten the existence of whales in the Antarctic.
The containership TS Taipei, owned by TS Lines, split into two amid rough seas off Shimen in northern Taiwan, after it ran aground on 10 March due to loss of propulsion.

Local reports said TS Taipei has leaked substantial amount of oil into the sea, creating a polluted area within a 500-metre radiius of the ship and a slick that can reach as far as 5km away. It was carrying approximately 400 tonnes of heavy fuel oil.

While efforts to remove the oil from the ship started shortly after the ground incident, the operations were hampered due to bad weather and progress has been slow.

Taiwans ministry of transportation and communications has urged TS Lines to speed up its oil removal operation, which is expected to be completed by early-April.

Environmentalists have warned that if the spill is not contained swiftly, its damage to the ecosystem could last for two to three years.

TS Taipei, which was sailing from Hong Kong to Keelung, was carrying 21 crew when the accident happened, but all the crew were safely evacuated by a helicopter.
True to their word on 22 March the dockers shut down the islands largest port and brought a degree of chaos to Limassol for four days, with piles of perishables left rotting.

With Cyprus poised to wrap up a three-year bailout programme next month, the successful privatisation of the Limassol port is seen as a major boost. Demetriades said: "The commercial activities of the port will enhance the already strong maritime cluster.

"An active port is part of the process of attracting more companies to Cyprus and unification of the island will further enhance the maritime sector and the Limassol cluster and attract more FDI [foreign direct investment]," said the Minister, during a short stop over in Athens, while en route to London.

Demetriades said that by 1 January 2017 the full control of Limassol will have been handed over to private operators. A consortium led by Germanys EuroGate International, Cyprus Interorient Navigation company and Luxembourg-based East Med Holdings, won the concession to run Limassol ports container terminal, under a 25-year concession agreement.

A second consortium, made up of Dubais DP World, its subsidiary P&O Maritime and Cyprus GAP Vassilopoulos will operate sea services concession for 15 years and a multipurpose terminal at the port for 25 years.

Privatisation of Limassol and Larnaca ports are part of a raft of reforms the government pledged to carry out in return for a EUR10bn ($11.2bn) bailout by international creditors. The necessary legislation is still to go before parliament.

Demetriades said Cyprus' goal is "to turn Limassol port into a regional player given its proximity to the Suez Canal, one of the worlds busiest shipping traffic routes". He said the "very high interest shown in the bidding by investors underlined the potential of Limassol" home of one of the worlds largest third party ship management centres.

He referred to the port's possible role in offering hydrocarbon support services in the future to support a burgeoning offshore oil and gas industry in the region, which is considered instrumental to Cyprus future economic development.

Meanwhile, Limassol dockers stopped work seeking cast-iron guarantees employees jobs will be secure.

Demetriades was surprised by the strike. All those employed now will keep their rights... There is no reason to strike, said

Demetriades. In the worst case scenario, some of the workers will be moved to a different area in the public sector. This deal, is the best possible deal for the people of Cyprus.
The 2,478 teu containership Azargoun called at the Antwerp Gateway terminal in the Deurganck dock last week resuming calls at the European port that had been a major gateway for Iranian cargo up to 2010.

IRISL is planning for a weekly service deploying vessels of 5,125 to 6,572 teu, but is starting out with a fortnightly service using smaller vessels.

With its large and growing cargo volume of containers and petrochemical products, Iran offers great potential for a port such as Antwerp which is not only the second-largest container port in Europe but is also home to the continents largest integrated petrochemical cluster, the Port of Antwerp said.
Shell Company Name Was Deceptively Similar to a Legitimate Fund

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2016-58

The Securities and Exchange Commission today charged a New York-based securities professional with defrauding two institutions he solicited to invest in a shell company he controlled whose name was deceptively similar to that of a legitimate private equity fund.

According to the SEC complaint filed in federal district court in Manhattan, Andrew W.W. Caspersen, a New York City resident, solicited approximately $95 million from two institutional investors by offering promissory notes issued by Irving Place III SPV LLC. The complaint alleges that Irving Place III SPV LLC is a shell entity formed and controlled by Caspersen with no legitimate business operations, unlike the similarly named Irving Place Capital Partners III SPV, a legitimate private equity fund not associated in any way with Caspersen.

In a parallel action, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York today announced criminal charges against Caspersen.

As alleged, Caspersen engaged in a brazen fraud by raising money under false pretenses and simply stealing the funds, said Andrew M. Calamari, Director of the SECs New York Regional Office. This action amply demonstrates that even sophisticated institutional investors are not immune to financial scams.

The SEC complaint also alleges that:

 Caspersen obtained a $25 million investment in November 2015 from an institutional investor by falsely representing that the investment would be secured by approximately $900 million of assets of Irving Place Capital Partners III SPV.

 Shortly after the investor wired its $25 million investment to Irving Place III SPV LLCs bank account, Caspersen simply took control of the funds for his personal use.

 Using similar false and misleading statements, Caspersen later solicited an additional $20 million from the first investor and $50 million from a second, in both cases unsuccessfully.

The SEC is seeking a permanent injunction, return of allegedly ill-gotten gains with interest, and monetary penalties.

The SECs investigation, which is continuing, has been conducted by Gerald Gross and James Hanson in the SECs New York office. The litigation will be led by Paul Gizzi and Mr. Hanson. The case is being supervised by Sanjay Wadhwa. The SEC appreciates the assistance of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York.
Press Release

March 27, 2016 NEXT PRESIDENT SHOULD INCREASE PENSION HIKE OF SSS RETIREES WITHIN FIRST MONTH OF OFFICE - BONGBONG MARCOS Vice presidential candidate Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. today said the next president should implement a P1,000 minimum increase in pension of all Social Security Security (SSS) retirees in the first month of his or her presidency. Marcos issued the statement after being besieged by inquiries from retirees of the private sector who have expressed their dismay over veto of President Aquino on the P2,000 SSS pension hike bill and the continued refusal to sign an executive order to grant them a provisional increase of P1,000. "I receive many inquiries about the pension hike from our SSS pensioners and it is just lamentable that they have been ignored which is the reason why I would like to propose that the next president should grant them at least P1,000 provisional increase through an executive order while waiting for a new law for a bigger increase is passed by Congress," he stated. Marcos further stated that such EO should be issued within the first month of the new president. "It should be issued in the first month of the next administration," he pointed out. House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte earlier said a provisional increase may be effected through an executive order. The senator also said the next president should be more discerning in appointing the new set of officers of the SSS saying the controversy brought about by the veto on the SSS pension hike measure and the mismanagement of the pension fund should be enough reason for the next president to appoint officials based on their competence and not for political considerations. "The next president should find the best people who can run it the best for our retirees," he said. Marcos also brushed aside allegations that lawmakers pushing for the SSS pension hike are using the issue to score political points, particularly because of the coming elections this year. "I disagree. It's an attempt to help the people. Nagsimula yan sa bawas sa income tax, tapos eto na yung SSS---both of which were vetoed and turned down by the Palace," he said.
Press Release

March 27, 2016 BONGBONG MARCOS DARES NEW GRADUATES:

BE DRIVERS OF THE ECONOMY VICE presidential candidate Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. has exhorted this year's college graduates to aggressively search for their rightful place as productive citizens in the real world. In a statement addressed to new college graduates, Marcos said while their graduation is a great achievement in itself, they should challenge themselves not only to be their family's breadwinners but become the engine and drivers of the economy. "All you have to do is to level up your skills, and assiduously look for these golden opportunities available to you out there. Then, with hard work, and aided by good fortune, you shall all soon land your dream jobs and careers and become productive citizens in your communities," he said. He said the graduates should also be prepared to face with strong confidence and conviction the other challenges like the national unemployment rate of 6 percent and 7 percent in Metro Manila. One-fifth of the unemployed are college graduates. According to the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP), 40 percent of our fresh college graduates- in the range of 500,000 to 600,000- find difficulty landing a job immediately after their graduation. "I want you to prepare yourselves for these realities... You have to possess what the PMAP called as functional skills such critical thinking, initiative, and effective communication skills. He said by becoming productive, professionally, the graduates will be able to serve the community in the form of taxes, which will then "pay forward" and support the education of future batches of students of the country. He also congratulated the graduates for clearing the academic hurdles as well as their parents for investing in the education of their children. "So this is not the end for you, dear graduates, but just the beginning of new challenges. This is not the time to get tired and stop. Definitely, not at this point," he said.
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A pair of local scientists say climate change may bring one more thing to worry about: rock slides from out of the blue.

Its a caution they raised this month after studying a high cliff in Yosemite National Park to find out why mountainous rocks fall from high places for no obvious reason.

There are often rockfalls that happen on beautiful, sunny summer days and there is often no explanation: no rain, earthquakes or any other obvious explanation, said Brian Collins, a researcher at the U.S. Geological Survey in Menlo Park.

While earthquakes, heavy rain and freezing winter weather have long been known to trigger rockfalls along steep mountainsides, researchers and outdoor enthusiasts have pondered what causes rockfalls in relatively mundane conditions  such as those that occur several times a year in Yosemite. One particularly damaging slide happened in 2008, when about 200 dump trucks worth of granite cracked loose from a mountainside above Curry Village, flattening tents and leading to the evacuation of more than 1,000 people, though it caused only minor injuries.

Collins and Greg Stock, a Yosemite geologist, picked a prominent crack on a 1,640-foot cliff in the park to solve the mystery. The crack separates a slab of rock from the rest of the mountain and is the first indication of a potential rockfall, they said.

For 3 years, Collins and Stock measured the crack several times per day using installed tools called crackmeters, small devices that extend like tire jacks and can measure displacement of cracks up to one-one-hundredth of a millimeter. They also took temperature readings and measured light intensity.

In the end, they concluded that daily and seasonal fluctuations in temperature led to expansions and contractions of the rock that were, over time, enough to trigger a potentially hazardous rockfall.

The crack moved in and out every day  farther out in the summertime and back in the winter time. But more and more over each year, Collins said. Over time, the cracks are going to become bigger and bigger and bigger and ultimately result in a rockfall.

Climate change may exacerbate that process by intensifying temperature changes and seasonal weather conditions, the scientists said.

Logically, if temperatures keep ramping up, that would explain why some of these cracks are opening up even more, Collins said. Does that equate to more rockfalls? That would be speculation at this point.

Collins and Stocks findings were published Monday in Nature Geoscience, and in an accompanying report, Valentin Gischig, a senior researcher at the Swiss Competence Center for Energy Research, said rockfalls caused by temperature fluctuations should be considered in rockfall hazard assessments not just in Yosemite, but throughout the world  and especially as climate change continues.

As the climate warms in the coming decades, thermally induced rockfalls may become even more important to hazard assessment and cliff erosion, Gischig said.

Kevin Schultz is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kschultz@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @KevinEdSchultz
The price for Starwood Hotels rocketed higher after an offer from Chinas Anbang and its partners crossed the $15 billion mark in a fight for control with Marriott International.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. said Monday that the offer from the Anbang group is reasonably likely to be superior to the one made just last week by Marriott.

While CEO Arne Sorenson said in an interview at the time on CNBC that he didnt tell Starwood that the latest offer was Marriotts last and best, some industry analysts believe this may be a fight it cant win, at least if it is to be determined by the highest bid.

Anbang is the Chinese insurance company that two years ago acquired the famed Waldorf Astoria of New York.

While that deal was cleared by the U.S. Treasurys Committee on Foreign Investment, a decision was made to house President Obama, his top aides and staff along with the sizable U.S. diplomatic contingent elsewhere during the annual U.N. General Assembly, which takes place every September. Presidents and other top U.S. diplomatic officials had stayed at the Waldorf for decades.

Fraud

Did partner

dupe investors?

A former executive with a large private equity firm has been arrested and charged with securities fraud, federal prosecutors said Monday.

Andrew Caspersen, a Harvard Law School graduate and a partner at the Park Hill Group, an advisory firm that until last fall had been a part of the Blackstone Groups advisory business, has been accused of seeking to defraud a number of institutional investors of $95 million through fake private equity investments.

One investor duped by Caspersen was a charitable foundation affiliated with an unidentified New York hedge fund that sank nearly $25 million in the scheme. An employee at the hedge fund firm invested $400,000.

But the authorities said Caspersen used most of that money to make a series of money-losing stock and options trades in his personal brokerage account.

Medicine

More woes

for Valeant

Shares of beleaguered Canadian drugmaker Valeant Pharmaceuticals plunged again Monday after its CEO was subpoenaed by a congressional committee.

The Senate Aging Committee said in a statement that Mike Pearson, Valeants CEO since September 2010, is among the witnesses expected to testify on April 27. The committee is holding its third hearing since December on soaring prices for prescription medicines, which are becoming unaffordable for many patients.

Valeant is in crisis, with three ongoing federal probes into its accounting and business practices, insurers demanding bigger discounts from its inflated list prices for many of its drugs and executives leaving. Activist investor Bill Ackmans Pershing Square Capital Management, one of Valeants largest shareholders, just took over two positions on its board of directors to try to salvage the funds investment in Valeant.

On Monday, shares of Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc. fell 7.2 percent, or $2.23, to $28.86.

Cybersecurity

MedStar Health

gets hacked

Hackers crippled computer systems at a major hospital chain, MedStar Health Inc., on Monday, forcing records systems offline for thousands of patients and doctors. The FBI said it is investigating whether the hackers demanded a ransom to restore systems.

A computer virus paralyzed some operations at Washington-area hospitals and doctors offices, leaving patients unable to book appointments and staff locked out of their email accounts. Some employees were required to turn off all computers since Monday morning.

A law enforcement official said the FBI was assessing whether the virus was ransomware, in which hackers extort money in exchange for returning a victims systems to normal. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to discuss publicly details about the ongoing criminal investigation.

We cant do anything at all. Theres only one system we use, and now its just paper, said one MedStar employee who, like others, spoke on condition of anonymity because this person was not authorized to speak to reporters and feared being fired.

MedStar operates 10 hospitals in Maryland and Washington, including the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital.

Chronicle News Services
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A decision by prosecutors to seek the death penalty in a high-profile Oakland murder case going to trial Monday is focusing renewed attention on capital punishment in a state where no prisoners have been executed in more than a decade.

The outcome of the trial of Darnell Williams, 25, who is charged with first-degree murder in the killing of 8-year-old Alaysha Carradine, will be up to an Alameda County jury. Williams, whos also charged with killing a man during a dice game, faces two special circumstances that make him eligible for the death penalty  committing multiple murders and lying in wait.

But if he is convicted and sentenced to death, the likelihood of his undergoing lethal injection is tenuous at best, experts say.

Even with the death penalty on hiatus as the state revamps execution protocols found unconstitutional by a federal judge nearly 10 years ago, prosecutors continue to seek capital punishment as a tool against societys worst offenders.

Ive been on both sides, said Darryl Stallworth, a former prosecutor with the Alameda County district attorneys office, who wasnt speaking specifically about the Williams case. Prosecutors believe, like most people, that it should be used as a deterrent and that the persons death will give the family closure.

But theyre never going to get closure, continued Stallworth, who now advocates against the death penalty. Because that person will likely never be executed.

Victims emotions

Evelyn McGann, leader of the East Bay chapter of Parents of Murdered Children, a victims advocacy group that hosts monthly support meetings, said members of her organization are often craving justice any way they can get it.

I have people who come to my meetings whove lost family to cold-blooded murder and thats all they want, to see this person put on Death Row, said McGann, whose son, Richard, was slain in 1984. I wouldnt hesitate (to impose the death penalty) if it was the man who killed my son.

A gag order has been placed over Williams trial, forbidding attorneys from talking to the media and the public about the case. But on paper, its clear to see why prosecutors checked all the boxes that prompted them to seek the death penalty.

On July 17, 2013, around 11:15 p.m., Williams allegedly went to the Oakland apartment where Alaysha and other children were having a sleepover. Authorities say he was bent on revenge for the slaying of a friend four hours earlier.

After ringing the doorbell at the Dimond District apartment, police said, Williams began firing before the door even opened.

Within seconds, Alaysha was felled by a barrage of bullets. A 7-year-old playmate, the playmates 4-year-old brother and their 63-year-old grandmother were all injured.

Authorities suspect Williams was gunning for anyone associated with Antiown York, a man he blamed for killing 26-year-old Jermaine Davis earlier that evening in Berkeley. Yorks children and their mother lived at the apartment.

Davis cousin, Joseph Carroll, was initially accused of helping to plan the Oakland shooting by casing the apartment, but charges against Carroll were later dropped.

The senselessness of Alayshas death rocked the community. Police Chief Sean Whent and then-Mayor Jean Quan were among hundreds of people who attended a memorial service, in which the little girl nicknamed Ladybug was remembered for a sparkling smile and sweet nature. Her mother, Chiquita Carradine, stood before mourners and called Alaysha my guardian angel.

Another killing

Alayshas killing didnt end what Alameda County District Attorney Nancy OMalley described at the time as Williams complete disregard for human life. On Sept. 8, 2013, Williams shot and killed a man with whom he was supposedly friends, 22-year-old Anthony Medearis, officials said. The slaying happened on the 1400 block of Eighth Street in Berkeley, in an alleged robbery attempt during a dice game.

Williams was arrested that day after police found him hiding in a shed, and Carroll was taken into custody in early 2014 after a wide-ranging probe that included Oakland and Berkeley police and state agents. At a preliminary hearing in the case, a witness testified that Williams told her he didnt give a f about either killing.

Williams prosecution is the first time the Alameda County District Attorney has sought capital punishment since 2012, when David Mills was sentenced to death for three 2005 murders in East Oakland.

Californias Death Row is the largest in the nation, with 743 condemned inmates. But only 13 prisoners have been executed since the death penalty was restored in the state more than 40 years ago, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, a research organization with a skeptical but formally neutral position on capital punishment.

Corrections officials proposed a new one-drug execution protocol last year in an effort to conform to U.S. District Judge Jeremy Fogels 2006 ruling that the states three-drug lethal injection method created undue and unnecessary risk that an inmate will suffer pain so extreme that it offends the Eighth Amendment. Fogel concluded that Californias implementation of lethal injection is broken.

State officials are working on a new death-penalty protocol that would involve using one of four barbiturates and, in theory at least, would conform to the judges ruling. But even if the new method is approved, it will likely be years before executions resume.

Opponents concerns

Beyond the problems with the drugs involved, Stallworth said, his experience, including a case in which he sought the death penalty for a murder suspect, ultimately led him to reject capital punishment after he concluded it wasnt a deterrent and was applied haphazardly.

The duration of such trials, which can often last months, means theres a higher chance of seating juries consisting of people who can afford the time off. The end result, Stallworth contends, is that wealthier and more conservative jurors are picked to enforce the death penalty.

Even when a capital sentence is imposed, inmates can spend decades on death row awaiting execution due to the mandatory appeals process, often delaying indefinitely any gratification garnered by a victims family.

That delay has led McGann, who said she is in favor of the death penalty but admits to being conflicted on the issue, to be careful when shes talking to loved ones of victims.

When someone takes one of yours, you want nothing more than to take from them, she said. But I dont tell people to expect that, because it just takes forever.

Kale Williams is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kwilliams@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfkale
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Troy

City police are investigating social media posts to determine whether a self-styled police watchdog has fled to Canada to avoid prosecution on sex crime charges, a spokesman for the District Attorney said Monday.

Police on Saturday charged Adam Rupeka of Troy and Jennifer Ogburn of Hudson were charged Saturday with endangering the welfare of a child, third-degree sexual abuse and forcible touching, all misdemeanors, for allegedly abusing a 15-year-old girl.

Rupeka and Ogburn were sent to the Rensselaer County Jail on $5,000 bail. Rupeka was immediately bailed out and returned to the jail to bail out Ogburn, the sheriff's office said.

A social media post on Monday indicated the couple may be in Edmonton, Alberta, with no plans to return.

Authorities won't know if Rupeka and Ogburn have skipped out unless they fail to appear in Troy City Court this week, said Jon Desso, a spokesman for DA Joel Abelove.

Ogburn is scheduled to appear Tuesday, while Rupeka's court date is Thursday.

Rupeka is known for videotaping police, flying his drone at state facilities and posting online about civilian-police interactions.
Parents stampeded PEZ Candy's annual Easter egg hunt Saturday in Connecticut, knocking over children as young as 4 in their greedy lust for 9,000 brightly colored eggs and tons of candy.

Amid the appalling spectacle of adults behaving badly on the eve of Christianity's most holy day, PEZ abruptly call the hunt to a halt, CNN reported.

"When it came time, at like 10:30 a.m. ET, the parents just bum-rushed that area," West Haven resident Nicole Welch told CNN affiliate WFSB Eyewitness News 3. "When my son left, he had a broken basket, and he was hysterically crying."

As originally organized, the event planned three staggered hunts with different age groups, followed by an appearance by the Easter Bunny. But kids and adults jumped the gun, entering the field before the starting time and helping themselves to hidden eggs.

Welch told Eyewitness News that children were trampled and eggs were stolen out of peoples' baskets. Pez General Manager Shawn Peterson described the crowd as "kind of like locusts."

"This event was a joke to put it mildly," said Susan Kristie Nadori DeRose on PEZ's Facebook page. "We have a 3-year-old. The parents first of all were letting their uncontrolled children pick up eggs prior to the start.

In a statement, PEZ said:

"We made efforts to get everyone something before they left and passed out tons of candy and coupons and the front entry and tried to make the best of an unfortunate situation. Due to the actions of a few, the good intent quickly turned into a mess. I would like to sincerely apologize to each of our guests."

Pez said its general manager and the other staff at the visitor center tried to inform parents that there was extra candy on hand for those children who didn't get any.
A foul-mouthed frat bro who was caught on video berating an Uber driver with a stream of vile insults in Michigan has been identified as the son of one of New York's most despised landlords.

The University of Michigan's Tau Kappa Epsilon chapter is investigating Jake Croman, one of its members, for verbally abusing the driver, the Michigan Review reported. According to the New York Daily News, Croman is the son of Steven Croman, a multi-property landlord who is one of the most hated figures in New York real estate.

Uber driver Artur Zawada filmed Jake Croman and a group of his pals harassing him outside his car after Zawada canceled a ride they ordered.

While the whole group rips into the Uber driver, Croman has a starring role. In the video, he pulls out his own phone to film Zawada as he calls the driver a "minimum wage fa - - -t" and mocks him for needing to work "all day."

The insults don't stop there.

Zawada's video has been viewed more than 350,000 times since it was posted on YouTube on March 23. (Caution: It contains vulgar, abusive language.) The driver said in a YouTube comment this was the "4th time that I have been harassed by this rider and his friends."

Zawada filed a complaint with Ann Arbor police alleging verbal harassment, according to the Daily News.

Croman told the University of Michigan Tab, a student news website, that the video "shows one side of an argument I had with an Uber driver" and says the driver made an offensive remark and "refused to pick me up on the basis of my religion."

Croman continued:

"I am not proud of my reaction to his discrimination and I regret my choice of words. Shortly after the verbal altercation, I filed a complaint with the Ann Arbor police department and they are now dealing with the issue."

The Tab reported that Zawada denied making an offensive remark.

A university spokesperson told The Tab: "We have seen the video. Our dean of students has talked with both the Uber driver and the students. We are extremely disappointed in the behavior depicted in this video. No one should be treated with such disrespect."

So far the university has taken no action on the matter.

Croman's father, Steven Croman, has been under investigation since 2014 for allegedly using illegal tactics to force residents out of some of the rent-stabilized Manhattan properties owned by his company, 9300 Realty, the Daily News said.
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As thousands of California State University instructors prepare to walk off the job in two weeks, a neutral fact-finders report concluded Monday that they are right to demand a bigger salary increase than CSU wants to give them.

A 5 percent raise for the 23,000 California Faculty Association members  and extra pay increases for the lowest-paid instructors  are in the interest of students, who need caring faculty, and certainly in the public interest, as our country needs a well-educated population, Bonnie Castrey, the investigator, wrote in a 15-page nonbinding report.

Faculty representatives applauded her findings, which reflected what the union is requesting. They have set strike dates for the five weekdays between April 13 and April 19 at CSUs 23 campuses, which enroll about 460,000 students. The union represents professors, lecturers, librarians, counselors and athletic coaches.

If management doesnt step up, we will hold the biggest strike in U.S. education history, the unions president, Jennifer Eagan, said Monday.

CSU is offering a 2 percent raise and says the university doesnt have the $70 million it would take to meet the faculty request, much less the additional $40 million to raise other employees pay under contracts that tie increases to faculty raises.

The sides are negotiating pay for this academic year and next. After they were unable to reach a deal in the fall, the state Public Employment Relations Board offered the services of Castrey, an arbitrator. CSU and union officials agreed.

Putting off projects

Castrey heard three days of testimony, read through voluminous documentation, and concluded that CSU faculty members are underpaid compared with instructors at similar universities. At high-enrollment campuses, including San Francisco State and San Jose State, full professors salaries lag behind those of their peers by almost 18 percent, she said, and assistant and associate professors pay levels are 4 and 7 percent lower, respectively. At campuses with lower enrollment, the pay gap is narrower, Castrey found.

The union says 60 percent of CSU instructors are temporary lecturers working mainly part time and earning $28,000 a year on average. Full-time, tenured professors earn an average of $96,000 a year. Add assistant and associate professors, and the average drops to $85,000.

To pay for raises, Castrey recommends that CSU reallocate money from unspecified projects and delay their implementation for a year or two.

In response, CSU Chancellor Timothy White told The Chronicle that if we redirected money, it would hurt students. Wed have to decrease classes, lay off (lecturers) teaching those classes, and decrease student support services and advisers.

CSUs operating budget is $100 million below prerecession levels, White said. We cant spend money that we dont have, he said.

Castrey recommended that CSU and the union jointly approach the state Legislature and Gov. Jerry Brown for more money.

Brown, a CSU trustee, declined through a spokesman Monday to comment on the labor battle.

Threatening 1st walkout

The two sides negotiated for almost 10 hours as recently as Friday. Hanging over the dispute is the unions threatened strike, which would be the first systemwide faculty walkout in CSU history.

Although the strike is set for five weekdays, Eagan said that if no agreement is reached by April 20, the union will schedule more strikes. Spring term instruction ends in mid-May for most campuses, followed by final exams and the summer term.

CSU has no plans to extend the spring term if a strike happens. White said CSU would encourage students to be on campus and would ask faculty members to assign work in advance of the threatened walkout.

Eagan, however, said, The object of a strike is for the workers to withhold their labor.

Taylor Herren, an environmental studies major at Cal State Chico and president of the statewide California State Student Association, said that students are following the conflict closely and that each side made its case to the group in March.

Students greatest concern is that money for the raises would come from student programs, student services or reducing enrollment by employing fewer instructors, Herren said.

Support from students

The association is officially neutral in the dispute, but students are sympathetic to faculty members need for more money and we honor their right to strike, Herren said. Many students may want to join faculty on the picket line if they strike, she said.

Herren added, however, that we want to make sure that students who live and work on campus can cross the picket line to go to their dormitories or university jobs.

Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @NanetteAsimov
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A Bay Area Coast Guard crew busted a group of smugglers piloting a covert submarine loaded with 6 tons of cocaine through the open waters off the coast of Central America, officials said Monday.

Four suspected transnational criminal drug runners were aboard the blow-laden submersible on March 3 about 300 miles southwest of Panama when the boat was spotted cruising just below the ocean surface.

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection airplane spotted the vessel and scrambled two interceptor boats with the crew from Alameda, Lt. Donnie Brzuska said.

Once on board, the Coast Guard team found 12,800 pounds of coke with an estimated street value of over $200 million along with a loaded gun in the cockpit, Brzuska said.

The suspected smugglers were apprehended without incident. The Coast Guard released video of the dramatic open-ocean raid, showing armed officers storming the simplistic craft.

The boat, a self-propelled semi-submersible, is one of scores of makeshift vessels that glide just below the ocean surface to smuggle drugs into the United States.

The vessels have a mostly submerged hull with a cockpit and exhaust pipe that stick out just above water, making them hard to detect because of their low profile.

The Coast Guard busted a similar boat southwest of the Mexican-Guatemalan boarder in January.

Last year the Coast Guard seized more than 319,000 pounds of cocaine from semi-submersible boats and so far this fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, the agency has taken more than 200,000 pounds of drugs from such boats, officials said.

Evan Sernoffsky is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: esernoffsky@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EvanSernoffsky
A man was shot and killed in Richmond on Saturday evening, marking the citys fifth homicide in March alone.

The shooting occurred on Saturday at approximately 6:05 p.m. on the 1700 block of Maine Avenue, just south of downtown.
Californias judicial disciplinary agency is too lenient and too secretive, an advocacy group charged Monday in a report submitted to the Legislature.

The Commission on Judicial Performance, established in 1960 as the first agency in any state with the power to investigate judges for ethical violations, dismisses nearly 90 percent of the public complaints it receives and imposes discipline much less often than similar agencies in Arizona, Texas and New York, the report said. It was issued by Court Reform LLC, a nonprofit headed by Joseph Sweeney, an East Bay mathematician who said he was partly motivated by his encounters with family law courts.

California has fallen behind its peers in judicial accountability and fails to protect the public from judicial misconduct, Sweeneys group told a state Assembly subcommittee that oversees the commissions $4.3 million budget.

The report did not identify any abusive or unethical judges who were allowed to stay on the bench. But the advocacy group said the commissions proceedings are virtually impossible to monitor because most of them  complaints against judges, the judges responses and the commissions decisions to dismiss complaints  are sealed from the public.

The commission releases a summary of the complaint and the judges reply only in the small fraction of cases that result in public disciplinary action, for the most serious misconduct.

In other disciplinary cases, when the commission finds the misbehavior to be relatively minor, it withholds the documents and issues a private reprimand.

The report called for an end to private disciplinary actions and for a state audit of the commission.

The commission  three judges, two lawyers and six public members  has the power to publicly reprimand a judge, issue a censure for more severe misconduct or remove a judge from office, an order that the judge can appeal to the state Supreme Court.

During the past decade, the report said, the commission has received an average of 1,082 complaints against judges each year, but has taken public disciplinary action against only 67 judges in that 10-year period, with 34 judges leaving office after disciplinary complaints.

Based on the number of complaints received in other states, the report said, New Yorks agency was more than twice as likely to impose public discipline as the California commission, Texas agency was nearly three times as likely, and Arizonas was four times as likely.

In response, Victoria Henley, the commissions director and chief counsel, said the reports statistics were extremely flawed. For example, she said, Sweeneys group counted informal advisories and warnings to judges as disciplinary actions in Arizona but not in California.

She said one likely reason New York and Texas discipline judges at a higher rate than California is that all judges in California are lawyers, but 40 percent of the judges in New York, and as many as 50 percent in Texas, are non-lawyers.

Henley also said private reprimands of judges serve important purposes  educating the judge, deterring future misconduct and justifying increased punishment for further violations.

But Sweeney said California voters, who decide whether to elect or retain the 2,200 members of the nations largest judicial system, are entitled to learn about accusations of wrongdoing and how they are handled.

The public needs as much information as possible about potential misconduct, Sweeney said.

The public should be able to sort out for itself whether a complaint is frivolous.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @egelko
Police are hunting for a vandal who spray-painted racist graffiti at a San Leandro park just hours before families began gathering at the popular open space on Easter Sunday.

The unidentified vandal scrawled racial slurs along with an image of a person wearing a red hat overnight Saturday on a cement wall at Marina Park, said San Leandro police Lt. Robert McManus.
SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)



A tourist who was stabbed in the head during a robbery last month near San Francisco's Japantown neighborhood died from his injuries Thursday night, according to police.



Around 10:55 p.m., the man died while at San Francisco General Hospital and police are now investigating the case as a homicide, police said.



On Feb. 18 around 8:30 p.m., the man, who was visiting the city from abroad, was with a family member near Post and Franklin streets when an unknown male and female attacked the pair, according to police.



One of the two suspects then stabbed the man in the head before taking his bag, which contained cash, credit cards, a cellphone and the victim's passport, police said.



The victim was taken to a hospital with a stab wound to the head.



The suspects fled on foot and are currently being sought by police.



The male suspect is described as being between 30 and 40 years old and the female suspect is described as being in her late 20s, according to police.
















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SACRAMENTO  After years of rallies and strikes, fast-food workers and other low-wage employees fighting to raise their pay scored their biggest victory to date Monday as Gov. Jerry Brown joined labor leaders and lawmakers to announce a deal to bring the states minimum wage to $15 an hour over the next six years.

The deal needs to be approved by the state Legislature and signed into law by Brown before the first of the increases can go into effect, starting with a 50-cent-an-hour raise in 2017. Lawmakers were feeling pressure to reach a deal with Service Employees International Union United Healthcare Workers West after the union gathered enough signatures to put an initiative on the November ballot to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour over the next five years.

For Brown, the agreement is something of an about-face: In his January budget proposal, the governor warned that increasing the minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2021 would cost the state an estimated $4 billion a year and could lead to annual deficits.

Giving governor control

On Monday, however, Brown noted that the agreement would put off the full increase until 2022 and would give the governor the ability to put wage hikes on hold if the economy turns bad.

The initial cost to the state would be $20 million in the 2016-17 budget, according to the state Department of Finance, with the largest portion of that coming from increasing the pay of in-home workers who care for the elderly and disabled. When Brown signed legislation to increase the minimum wage from $8 to $10 between 2013 and 2015, it cost the state more than $250 million each year.

Laphonza Butler, president of SEIU California, said the union will pull its initiative from the ballot once Brown signs the minimum-wage deal into law. She stood alongside Brown in announcing the agreement at a Capitol news conference Monday, saying the increase in wages will lift families out of poverty.

Butler said Mondays announcement was the culmination of a fight that began when the Occupy movement put the issue of income disparity on the national agenda in 2011.

What we missed in that opportunity was, What are our policy initiatives that went with our movement and our energy to keep the conversation going? Butler said.

Fight for $15 campaign

From that came the Fight for $15, a campaign to raise the minimum wage to $15 in cities and states across the country.

Joining the governor and others at Mondays news conference was Holly Dias, a Burger King worker in Sacramento who cried as she described what its like to live on the $10-an-hour minimum wage.

The struggle is to the point where I have to decide between feeding me and my child, buying bus passes (and) paying rent, and its not fair, Dias said.

Under the deal announced Monday, the minimum wage would increase to $10.50 an hour in 2017 and $11 in 2018, then would go up an additional $1 an hour every year until reaching $15 in 2022. After that, it would be tied to the Consumer Price Index and could rise further.

Small businesses with 25 or fewer employees would have an extra year, until 2023, to reach the $15 wage level.

Brown said business interests would be smart to support the deal, given the more aggressive alternative from labor that will appear on the November ballot if the Legislature doesnt act.

I think there will be very few businesspeople lobbying against this bill, because they are just cutting their own throats if they head off the agreement, Brown said.

Still, a business-backed group called the Consumers Against Higher Prices Committee, which has been fighting ballot efforts to increase the minimum wage, said the deal would devastate Californias economy. State Senate Republican Leader Jean Fuller of Bakersfield also criticized the plan, saying, I am not sure how this new legislation moves the needle in improving Californias affordability.

Providing workers respect

Under the agreement, a governor who wanted to cancel a wage increase during an economic downturn would have to do so by Sept. 1. The governor could act if state Department of Finance forecasters predicted job losses, falling retail sales or a budget deficit of more than 1 percent of annual revenue.

The bottom line is we talk a good game about respecting work, but are we rewarding it? There is no reward for working a full-time job and living below the poverty line, said state Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, who will write the legislation, SB3, that will encompass the deal.

Leno said the Legislature could take up SB3 as early as Thursday in both the Assembly and Senate.

Some cities ahead of state

In the Bay Area, several cities have already passed legislation ensuring workers will make at least $15 an hour well before the state would require it. In Emeryville, the minimum wage will hit $15 in 2017 or 2018, depending on the size of the business, while low-wage workers in San Francisco, Mountain View and Sunnyvale will receive at least $15 an hour by 2018. Employees in El Cerrito will hit the $15-an-hour threshold by 2019.

Berkeley, Oakland, Richmond, Palo Alto and Santa Clara have also boosted their minimum wages since 2014, according to the UC Berkeley Labor Center.

Wages have stagnated for decades while consumer costs, corporate profits and executive bonuses have skyrocketed, said Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles. Its time to restore the California and American dream for working families.

Melody Gutierrez is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mgutierrez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @MelodyGutierrez
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A study published by the American Journal of Applied Sciences is drawing a lot of attention for positing an exciting theory: Unicorns might have been real, and they may have shared the earth with humans.

An Elasmotherium sibiricum skull fossil recently discovered in the Pavlodar region of Kazakhstan is the cause of all the fuss. Previously, scientists believed that anything resembling the mythical unicorn died out 350,000 years ago. The Siberian unicorn fossils found in Kazakhstan are 29,000 years old; scientists believe the first Homo sapiens evolved nearly 200,000 years ago.
DHAKA, Bangladesh  It took Bangladeshs High Court less than two minutes Monday to dismiss a petition aiming to remove the designation of Islam as the countrys state religion, a challenge that had wended its way through the court system for 28 years.

The effort had struck a nerve among Bangladeshis, whose tug of war over secularism and Islam dates to the 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. The countrys largest Islamic political party had declared a nationwide strike Monday, and Sunni Muslim groups had staged protests demanding that the hearing be called off.
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BRUSSELS  As the number of victims in the Brussels suicide attacks rose to 35, Belgian police released a video of a mysterious man in a dark hat seen in the company of the bombers who attacked Brussels Airport, indicating that he is still at large.

Police are seeking to identify this man, the Belgian Federal Polices website said Monday.

The videos release came as a Belgian magistrate also ruled that a man identified as Faycal C., who was arrested during the police raids that followed the March 22 attacks, could be released.

Faycal C. was among those taken into custody and facing preliminary terror charges. Belgian media had claimed the man was the mysterious suspect in the white jacket and dark hat spotted with the two bombers at the airport the morning of the attacks.

But the Belgian magistrate ruled that new evidence uncovered by investigators revealed there were no grounds to keep Faycal C. in custody and he was released, the Belgian Federal Prosecutors Office said.

The Belgian Federal Polices website posted a 32-second video of the still-unidentified suspect as he wheels baggage through the terminal alongside the bombers.

Tensions remain high in the city, particularly in the Brussels suburb of Molenbeek, where several of those involved in both the attacks on Brussels and those in Paris last November, hailed from.

Jamal Ikazban, a member of the Molenbeek council, tweeted Monday that young people in the neighborhood were being sent text messages by recruiters. Ikazban did not provide further details, beyond writing that We must ensure these recruiters can do no more damage.

Belgian authorities also announced that three more people swept up in police raids that followed the attacks on the airport and on a Brussels subway train were being held on charges of participating in terrorist activities.

It was not clear if the suspects ordered held by an investigating judge were linked to the attacks themselves. The three  identified by Belgian prosecutors as Yassine A., Mohamed B. and Aboubaker O.  were detained during 13 police searches Sunday in Brussels and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel.

The bombings, the bloodiest in recent Belgian history, were claimed by the Islamic State and confirmed Belgiums status as an unwitting rear base from which Muslim extremists can stage attacks in Europe. Many of those responsible for the Nov. 13 attacks in Paris that killed 130 people and wounded hundreds came from Belgium.

Four more people wounded in the Brussels attacks died in the hospital, Belgian Health Minister Maggie De Block announced on her Twitter account Monday.

De Block had reported over the weekend that 101 of the 270 wounded in the blasts were still being treated in hospitals, including 32 in burn units. A doctor at one of those burn units who had once served in Afghanistan described patients wounds as shocking.
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic  Deivis Ventura is still just a candidate for the Dominican Republics Chamber of Deputies, but he feels like hes already scored a victory.

The 42-year-old former private-school teacher, the first openly gay person to run for his countrys Congress, is delighted his campaign has not encountered overt hostility as it probably would have in the past.

Its an important moment for our country, Ventura said one recent afternoon during a break from campaigning with a transgender friend. The fact that we have openly LGBT candidates in an important political party speaks of change.

Another gay man, Yimbert Telemin, is running in the May election for City Council in La Romana, an area of famed beach resorts on the southeastern coast.

That they can run openly as homosexuals is the sign of a cultural shift that activists say has been helped by the presence of U.S. Ambassador James Wally Brewster, the first openly gay top diplomat the United States has posted to a Latin American country. Brewsters appointment angered some religious leaders and their followers in the Dominican Republic, but it was an important move for people whove long felt marginalized in the conservative Caribbean country.

Wally has become an iconic figure in the LGBT movement, said prominent activist Alexander Mundary.

Dr. Victor Terrero, director of the National Council on HIV and AIDS, noted that Brewster and his husband have been guests of President Danilo Medina and that the ambassador has hosted many of the countrys notable figures.

The presence of the ambassador has contributed to the breaking of much of the stigma, Terrero said. It has shown, in a way, that (homosexuality) is not a sin, nor is it something to get crazy about.

Human Rights First representatives said everyone they met with before issuing a December report on the status of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in the nation mentioned Brewster.
SHANGHAI  China is emerging as a global hub for money laundering, not just for Chinese but for criminals around the world. There are a number of options in China for cleaning dirty money, including through major state-run banks, import-export schemes, and informal money transfer systems that date back a millennium, according to recent police investigations and lawsuits in Europe and the United States.

Heres who law enforcement officials in the U.S. and Europe believe is laundering money in China.

The FBI says sophisticated cyberscammers tricked thousands of Western companies out of $1.8 billion in just over two years by impersonating top corporate executives in a scheme known as the fake president, fake CEO or business email compromise scam. The bureau says it has received 13,500 complaints from victim companies so far, with the number rising dramatically in 2015. The known culprits are not Chinese, but the top destinations for the stolen funds are bank accounts in China and Hong Kong, according to the FBI.

Israeli criminal networks are working with Chinese immigrants across Europe to launder money using a variation of a Chinese informal value transfer system called fei qian, or flying money, according to Western intelligence documents. The immigrants give their cash to a trusted member of the local Chinese community in France, Italy, Spain, Belgium or Germany. That Chinese intermediary  the bagman  gives the Israeli fraudsters bank account numbers in China where they can direct their stolen money. Once the Chinese confirm that the money has landed in the correct account, the bagman gives the Israeli partners in crime the cash.

In February, Spain arrested six executives from Chinas largest bank, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, accusing them of facilitating a Chinese money-laundering network that sold its services to Spanish and Chinese criminal syndicates in Europe, according to Europol, which also is investigating the networks links to France, Germany and Lithuania. Chinese authorities have said the state-run bank will co-operate with the investigation and that they have no reason to believe the bank was breaking the law.

Three Colombians based in Guangzhou, laundered more than $5 billion for drug cartels based in Mexico and Colombia using bank accounts in Hong Kong and mainland China, according to the U.S. Justice Department in September. The funds, often withdrawn in cash, were used to purchase counterfeit goods in China, which were then shipped to Colombia and other export markets for resale.
DAMASCUS, Syria  The recapture of Syrias ancient city of Palmyra from the Islamic State group has brought new revelations of the destruction wreaked by the extremists, who decapitated priceless statues and smashed or looted artifacts in the citys museum.

Experts say they need time to assess the full extent of damage in Palmyra, a UNESCO world heritage site boasting 2,000-year-old Roman-era colonnades and other ruins, which once attracted tens of thousands of tourists every year. Syrian troops drove Islamic State fighters out on Sunday, about 10 months after the militants seized the town.

The world knew through satellite images and Islamic State videos that the militants destroyed the Temple of Bel, which dated back to A.D. 32, the Temple of Baalshamin, which was several stories high and fronted by six towering columns, and the Arch of Triumph, which was built under the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus between A.D. 193 and A.D. 211.

But no one knew the extent of the damage inside the museum until a Syrian TV reporter entered on Sunday and found the floor littered with shattered statues. A sculpture of the Greek goddess Athena was decapitated, and the museums basement appeared to have been dynamited or hit with a shell.

Some of the damage may have been caused by shelling, which would have knocked the statues from their stands. In the Syrian TV footage from inside the museum, a hole can be seen in the ceiling, most likely from an artillery shell.

Unlike in the Iraqi city of Mosul, where Islamic State militants filmed themselves with sledgehammers proudly destroying ancient artifacts, no militant video was released from Palmyras museum.

Before Palmyra fell to Islamic State, authorities were able to relocate more than 400 statues and hundreds of artifacts to safe areas, but larger statues couldnt be moved, according to the head of antiquities and museums, Maamoun Abdul-Karim. He said about 20 statues were defaced and others had their heads chopped off. State media had earlier reported that a second century lion statue, previously thought to have been destroyed by Islamic State, was damaged but could be restored.

Abdul-Karim said he was relieved that many of the statues had only been disfigured and not demolished. Its like having a person whose face was burnt. He is not as good looking as he used to be, but he is still alive, he said.

He said officials have a list of all the statues that were left behind in Palmyra when Islamic State captured the town, which will help in documenting the damage.

The Sunni extremist group, which has imposed a violent interpretation of Islamic law across the territory it controls in Syria and Iraq, claims ancient relics promote idolatry. But it is also believed to have profited from looted antiquities.

That may explain why the militants killed the archaeological sites 81-year-old director, Khaled al-Asaad, who was beheaded last August after he reportedly refused to say where authorities had hidden some of the towns treasures.
Trilogy International chief executive Angela Buglass has sold 100,000 shares after the first tranche of 400,000 options vested, taking advantage of a stock price that soared 284 percent in the past year and reached a record this month.

Buglass sold shares this month at prices ranging from $3.30 to $3.47, for a total of $344,763, according to a disclosure notice from the Auckland-based skincare and home fragrance company. She was issued with 400,000 options at an exercise price of 60 cents apiece in March 2015 which vest over four years. They were among 1.17 million unlisted share options approved a year ago

Trilogy shares last traded at $3.46 and reached a record $3.52 this month. She follows chairman Geoff Ross, who sold 158,750 shares this month for $525,463.

Ross has an interest in about 30.3 million shares in Trilogy as one of the owners of The Business Bakery, the company's largest shareholder with a 48.7 percent stake. Trilogy has a policy of allowing directors to accept shares in lieu of fees.

Buglass took over the reins as chief executive in July last year, replacing the Business Bakery's Stephen Sinclair. She had previously been Trilogy's head of natural products.

The company this month raised its guidance for full-year sales and pretax earnings to more than $83 million and $13 million respectively, partly on the contribution from New Zealand cosmetics and fragrance distribution business, CS Company, acquired last August.

Trilogy last year agreed to buy privately held CS Company, New Zealand's largest independent importer and distributor of fragrances, cosmetics and toiletries, for $37 million plus any earn-out payments. The purchase was debt funded. It added to assets including the Trilogy, Ecoya and Goodness brands.

(BusinessDesk)

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New Zealand-based cloud app integrator 9 Spokes is launching a roadshow in Melbourne and Sydney this week and then New Zealand and Asia next week to drum up support for a A$25 million listing on the ASX.

9 Spokes platform allows small businesses to aggregate their various cloud computing applications on a single dashboard, helping them track and peer review their performance more cheaply than a corporate ERP (enterprise resource planning) system. They also get a single bill that covers all subscriptions to apps transferred in or purchased through 9 Spokes.

It recently built Deloitte Privates Connect cloud application platform.

Rumours of the planned IPO first surfaced in Australian media late last year when the company was holding investor meetings in a A$4 million pre-IPO fundraising.

The company, founded in 2011 by Adrian Grant and current chief executive Mark Estall, wants to raise up to A$25 million at 20 Australian cents a share, valuing the business at A$80 million.

The pre-IPO fundraising was priced at a 25 percent discount to the current offering.

Australian-based Foster Stockbroking has been appointed lead manager of the listing and said the company hopes to be trading on the ASX by May or June this year. A spokesman said they were unconcerned about high share prices for tech stocks being revalued downwards in recent months saying markets ebb and flow and thats out of our control.

The money raised will help fund the companys international expansion plans.

9 Spokes has a number of international directors including former Telecom New Zealand chief executive Paul Reynolds, who holds a small stake in the company, and former Walt Disney and Ticketmaster executive Wendy Webb, who is also an independent director of cloud-based software-as-a-service TV content provider TiVo.

After the IPO, the two founders of 9 Spokes will retain a 34 percent stake, with a third of the company going to new shareholders, and the rest held by its around 100 existing Australian and New Zealand shareholders who include NBR Rich Lister Trevor Farmer and Foodstuffs North Island chief executive Chris Quinn.

9 Spokes won the 2014 IBM SmartCamp Sydney competition where a number of start-ups from Australia and New Zealand pitch their ideas to a judging panel comprised of venture capitalists, serial entrepreneurs and technical specialists.

The start-ups website says the company name is derived from the nine key disciplines it believes businesses should follow to be successful and it sources and offers apps and widgets in each of those categories so SMEs can effectively manage, measure and grow their business.

(BusinessDesk)

BusinessDesk.co.nz

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Oceania Healthcare, the aged-care operator owned by Macquarie Group funds, has denied reports it is preparing for an initial public offering.

Earlier this month, the Australian Financial Review's Street Talk reported that Oceania was "expected to front potential buyers with Macquarie Capital in tow."

Chief executive Earl Gasparich told BusinessDesk the AFR story was "just speculative - there's no substance to it at all."

Oceania had seen a strong lift in earnings over the past year and a half coming towards its balance date in May, Gasparich said. Recapitalisation, which last year he said was on the cards "probably in the short-to-medium term future" - isn't in the company's sights until at least 2017.

"We still need to recapitalise at some stage, but we need to get this year behind us then forecast forward for another year," Gasparich said. "It would be potentially on the cards after that, but at the moment, we're focusing on the business itself."

Last November, Gasparich said Oceania had no current constraints on capital and its focus was on developing "key strategy sites." The company, which was formed through the merger of ElderCare and QualCare in 2008, is building on its Lady Allum rest home site on Auckland's North Shore and has brownfield sites in Auckland, Tauranga, Nelson and Christchurch. It spent $24.7 million on development in the year ended May 31, 2015, and had $33 million worth of property under development.

Oceania has about 2,800 care beds, which include hospital, rest home and dementia-level care, with a further 1,000 retirement village units, and is looking to add a further 1,400 retirement village units. Profit for 2015 was $13.3 million, on operating revenue of $168.5 million.

(BusinessDesk)

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Cleveland State Community College is hosting information sessions for the Advance Business programs on Monday, April 4 from 5:30-7 p.m. in Room 113 of the George R. Johnson Cultural Heritage Center on the main campus and Tuesday, April 5 from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Athens Center. These information sessions will cover the Business Associate of Applied Science, Customer Service Certificate, Electrical Maintenance Fundamentals Technical Certificate (Athens only) and Mechanical Maintenance Fundamentals Technical Certificate (Athens only).



Advance Business is the Colleges accelerated program that offers students a quick and convenient way to obtain a college degree.



Dr. Denise King, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said, We've learned from successful graduates that the set schedule of an Advance program helped them finish their credential faster and had the added benefit of a built-in group of like-minded achievers for study and support. We are expanding the format to new degrees and certificates to help others reach their career goals. This is just another way we are putting our community first!



Cleveland State recognizes the value of cohort programs and knows from experience that student success rates for these groups are very high, stated Susan Webb-Curtis, Dean of Business and Technology. In these cohort programs, students move through their courses as a member of a learning community. Fellow students provide a valuable support network, forming study groups and working together toward graduation. Faculty who teach these courses also fully understand the demands of working adult students. Class schedules are pre-planned so students in Advance cohort programs dont have to worry about course availability or scheduling.



Advance Student Jeremy Davis, said, Before enrolling at CSCC, I had been out of school for 20 years. I had not stepped foot in a classroom. It was very stressful not knowing what was in store for me, but fortunately, I found out that CSCC has a diverse group of students as far as age and gender, which made me a lot more comfortable.



Mrs. Webb-Curtis said, We are offering the information sessions so that prospective students can stop by in a very informal setting and learn more. We will have college staff who can answer questions about admissions, financial aid and specific programs.



Mr. Davis said, The advisors with the Advance program have been very helpful and motivating. I wish I had done this a long time ago. It wouldve made things a lot easier, and I could have already had a degree.



For more information on the Advance programs or the information sessions, visit the website at www.clevelandstatecc.edu or call (423) 473-6224 for the main campus or (423) 745-8486 for the Athens Center.
Cleveland State students Bryan Hidalgo and Anna McDade have been selected as 2016 Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Scholars. Mr. Hidalgo was the recipient of the Silver Scholar award receiving a scholarship disbursement of $1,250 and a silver medallion, while Ms. McDade was the recipient of the Bronze Scholar award receiving a scholarship disbursement of $1,000 and a bronze medallion.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation sponsors the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team program by recognizing 50 Gold, 50 Silver and 50 Bronze Scholars, and providing nearly $200,000 in scholarships annually. Selection for Coca-Cola Scholars was based on scores the students earned in the All-USA Community College Academic Team competition, for which more than 1,900 applications were received this year. This program is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation and is administered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

"It was exciting to be chosen for this scholarship, stated Mr. Hidalgo. My advisor, Karen Dale, told me about it and assisted me in filling out the application which really helped a lot. I like being involved with PTK. It has helped me to develop strong leadership skills, and I also enjoy helping with all of our service projects. He Hidalgo plans to major in Computer Information Technology, but is undecided where he will transfer after Cleveland State.

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society administers the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Program and recognizes Coca-Cola Community College scholars during All-State Community College Academic Team Recognition ceremonies held in 38 states. Student scholars also receive recognition locally during ceremonies held on campus and internationally for those who are able to attend Phi Theta Kappas Annual Convention.

Community college presidents or their designated nominators may submit no more than two nominations per campus for this award. An independent panel of judges considers outstanding academic rigor, grade point average, academic and leadership awards, and engagement in college and community service in the selection process.

Ms. McDade said, Our advisors explained to us where we could find information on scholarships. Holly Shiveley and Larry Burns looked over my application and provided me with feedback. They have really helped me to overcome obstacles and stay grounded and focused. I have really enjoyed being involved in PTK, especially getting to know people from all different walks of life and learning about the four hallmarks of PTKfellowship, scholarship, leadership and service. Ms. McDade is planning to attend Tennessee Tech University after Cleveland State and major in Biology.

We thank the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation for their vote of confidence in community college students by investing in their futures, said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. Their support is especially welcome during this challenging economic climate, as more and more community college students need additional resources to help them complete their degrees.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has a long history of providing financial assistance to outstanding students at community colleges, said J. Mark Davis, President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. We are proud to partner with Phi Theta Kappa and make it possible for deserving students to achieve their educational goals.
Gareth Laffely, 17-year-old NAMMY Rising Star Award recipient and NAMMY and ISMA multi-award nominated Native American flutist, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer, returns to the Chattanooga Native American Heritage Festival and Pow Wow On The River 2016 stage as a headline performer on Saturday and Sunday. Performance times are, Saturday at 11 a.m., 5:15 and 8:30 p.m., and Sunday at approximately 4 p.m., due to Pow Wow events scheduled.

Review for Gareth Laffely:

Gareth is one of the youngest musicians to reach the Billboard Top Ten New Age chart with the release of his "Sky Before a Storm" CD a few months ago, which made it to #2 on the Billboard Top 100 New Age chart. "Regen's Song" (a song from the CD), was written for 12 year old Regen Morris of Sevierville, Tenn., who lost his battle with brain cancer in December 2013. The song features GRAMMY winner, Laura Sullivan on piano and has been made into a popular music video with proceeds from the song being donated to St Jude Children's Hospital in Regen's name.

Gareth's music has been featured on nationally acclaimed NPR radio program Hearts of Space, as well as a favorite on WUTC and WAWL Chattanooga. Gareth also volunteers for Hospice using his music to comfort terminally ill patients and takes an anti-bully program into schools across the country. Gareth has a revolutionary style that combines rock, pop, and world music and is completely self taught on the Native American flute. He is of Mi'kmaq/Cree descent and from Gallatin, Tenn. near Nashville.

Also featured this year will be the Tlaltlacayolotl Aztec Dancers. This year's festival will include dancers, along with an award winning tipi lodge, and crafts, such as bow making, beading, pottery, finger weaving, and carving.

The festivities for the Chattanooga Heritage Festival and Pow Wow On The River 2016 will be held at First Tennessee Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd. Hours for the event are Saturday beginning at 10 a.m. with Grand Entry at 12 and 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. with Grand Entry at 12 p.m.

Admission is: adults $10, seniors 60 years and up $5, kids 6-12 $5, students/sponsors with ID $5, and all military, current or retired are free, as well as police, fire and EMS with ID are free.






AGARTALA: The central government has undertaken 17 waterway projects to improve links between north-east India and the adjoining countries, union minister Jitendra Singh said here on Saturday.

The proposed waterways are in addition to railway, air and road links being developed in the eight north-eastern states, said Jitendra Singh, who is Minister of State for Development of the North-eastern Region (DoNER).

"As part of the BJP-led central government's Act East policy, development of connectivities in all spheres in the north-east are priority areas," Singh told reporters.

He said: "Over a hundred waterways are being developed across the country and 17 such projects planned for the north-eastern region. Multi-modal connectivity in the region has been undertaken on a priority basis to boost trade and to increase the movement of people."

"While waterways are recognised as a fuel efficient, cost effective and environment friendly mode of transport, it has received lesser investment as compared to roads and railways."

Parliament earlier this month passed the National Waterways Bill, 2015, seeking to add 106 inland waterways to the existing six National Waterways on the recommendations of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture.

Jitendra Singh, who came here on Saturday met Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and addressed a BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) booth level workers meet, said one or two of the 17 waterway projects would link the Bay of Bengal with the mighty Brahmaputra in Assam.

Jitendra Singh said his ministry has thought about developing a dedicated airline that would operate flights within the region and also connect it with the rest of the country.

"Though there is no specific development about the proposed aviation scheme, my efforts were on in this regard. An inter-ministerial committee between the DoNER and civil aviation ministries was formed to study the issue."

He said: "Railway ministry has been working round the clock to extend the railway network in all areas of the northeast. The DoNER ministry would be funding the Agartala-Akhaura (Bangladesh) railway project to connect north-east with the Bangladesh railway network."

The minister said the Road Transport and Highways Ministry had formed the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd with a corpus fund of 150 crore to develop roads in the region.

He said currently 17 km of roads were being built every day, which would increase to 30 km per day.

"Earlier the UPA (United Progressive Alliance) government only looked at the north-east under the Look East policy, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned it into Act East policy to do work for the development of the region."

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NEW DELHI: Slamming the imposition of President's rule in Uttarakhand, CPI and JD-U today alleged that the Centre's decision betrays a larger design to "not only make a Congress-free India but Opposition-free India".



"BJP leaders were talking about a 'Congress-free India'. They claim that already has happened in Arunachal Pradesh and is now happening in Uttarakhand.



"I believe the design is not just to make a Congress-free India but Opposition-free India. This is how fascist forces aim to capture power. It's a challenge to all democratic forces," said CPI National Secretary D Raja.



President's Rule in the hill state is a "blow" to democracy and the constitutional and parliamentary processes, he said.



"Narendra Modi's slogan is being translated into reality. It means destabilisation of non-BJP state governments is BJP's design. This kind of destabilisation, subversion of democracy is not in the interest of our constitutional practices," he said.



Condemning the Centre's action as another constitutional "impropriety", JD-U general secretary KC Tyagi said it was an attempt to "sabotage" the constitutional mandate.



"This act also shows the BJP's mindset towards co-operative federalism. The Uttarakhand Chief Minister would have proved his majority in the Assembly on Monday. What was the need to be so impatient?



"Same was the case in Arunachal Pradesh. This is nothing less than a conspiracy by the Centre to destabilise the elected governments of the small Indian states," he said.



Tyagi called upon all non-BJP political parties, including those that are allies of the saffron outfit, particularly TDP, Akali Dal, Shiv Sena and PDP, to oppose this "egregious and unconstitutional" act and raise the issue strongly in Parliament.



JD-U also requested President Pranab Mukherjee to reconsider the decision of imposing President's Rule in Uttarakhand.

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First, the good news. There seems to be a large amount of money in India making a bet on startups that are merely a few months old, with nothing to show besides a good idea. I get around 5 business plans a day and most of them have already raised some money from friends and family. Many of them have even raised money from seed stage investorsprofessional investors who are the first outside investors in a startup. This is great news for the Indian startup ecosystem. Thousands of companies are being started all over India and they are getting the backing of angel investors to get going.

This is a phenomenon that the U.S. startup ecosystem has gone through over the last 7-8 years. After significant successful exits, many entrepreneurs have used some of that cash to fund other startups. Silicon Valley has seen a flood of money from wealthy angels backing startups with their cash. However, there was a negative downside to this flood of angel money and the thousands of startups they helped launch. The number of companies getting funding at the Series A stage has not really budged. Series A is typically the investment made by venture capital firms, amounting to $6-10 M in the U.S.

What this means is that more companies are being started but when they get to the point of having to raise Series A, they are finding it enormously challenging. The number of companies getting Series A has not changed over the last many years so this means the competition for Series A has actually increased significantly. What makes things worse is that since angel/seed money was so easy to come by, these companies were not geared to go through the grueling process of raising money from VCs. They have not been subjected to repeated rejection before and few successfully overcome this to go on to raise money. The startup landscape in the U.S. is strewn with dead startups or the living dead that straggle along unable to shut down nor able to raise the money required for growth.

The exact same phenomenon is playing out in India. A lot more startups are being launched with the help of angel money but when they get to the Series A stage, many of them are struggling. We hear of many startups that are closing shop because they are unable to raise the next round of financing. This is the painful stage we are witnessing right now in India.

The few companies that do raise Series A will find their chances of success going forward to again significantly increase. This is because there is plenty of growth capital that exists that is having to fish in a relatively small pond of companies that has successfully raised Series A. This is a strange barbell shape that the US has gone through in recent yearseasy seed money, very tough Series A money, and then relatively easy growth capital. We should expect Indian startups to go through that same barbell curve. Unfortunately, we are right now in the bleak period where many startups have raised seed money and are hitting the Series A wall. Startups that survive this period will be left standing stronger with fewer viable competitors.
airport

Airplanes lined up for takeoff at LaGuardia Airport. (Associated Press file photo)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- It's a done deal: LaGuardia Airport will be moving into the 21st century with a $4 billion redesign, including a brand-new, state-of-the-art Terminal B.

The commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey authorized $2.9 billion for the airport's new Terminal B on March 24.

"This vote marks a critical step forward in our effort to overhaul LaGuardia Airport," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo, hailing the authorization.

"Our plan will fundamentally transform LaGuardia -- replacing what is now an outdated and poorly designed complex with the world-class airport New York has always deserved."

Here are a few fast facts about this mega-project:

The Port Authority's board of commissioners voted to approve a lease with LaGuardia Gateway Partners (LGP) -- a private airport developer -- to build and operate the new Terminal B, with a light-filled central entry hall and concourse that will, for the first time, create a unified airport as well as the site for an air train station.

Moving the terminal closer to the Grand Central Parkway will increase airport taxiways and reduce airport ground delays.

In addition to the new terminal and central hall, LGP will also construct new roads, utilities, runway improvements, a new West Parking Garage and other supporting infrastructure.

Two-thirds of the $4.015 billion project's design and construction costs will be financed by private funds and existing passenger fees.

"Under an innovative public-private partnership, the largest in the U.S., LGP will design, build, operate and maintain the facility, with responsibility for financing two-thirds of the new terminal," the Port Authority said.

LGP was selected and approved in May 2015 by the Port Authority board after a competitive request-for-proposals process.

LGP is comprised of Vantage Airport Group, Skanska and Meridiam for development and equity investment; Skanska and Walsh Construction as the construction joint venture; HOK and Parsons Brinckerhoff as the design joint venture, and Vantage Airport Group for management of the operations.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Today's archive page is from Sept. 28, 1954.

Assemblyman Edward Amann Jr. announces he plans to introduce a resolution requesting that a joint legislative committee be appointed to investigate the conduct of the Transit Authority for reducing transportation service on Staten Island.

His announcement is planned for the new session of the State Assembly. Amann says that, if necessary, he will recommend remedial legislation.

"The taxpayers of this borough deserve far better treatment than they are receiving, and I sincerely hope that the Legislature will adopt my resolution as early as possible after the first of the year," Amann says.
Trump Kasich composite.jpg

Donald Trump and John Kasich will both attend the state GOP annual gala in Manhattan on April 14. (Advance composite photo)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- While Donald Trump is expected to be the show-stopping guest at the Republican annual gala in Manhattan next month, he'll have to share the stage with Ohio Gov. John Kasich.

Trump first RSVPed to the annual event for the New York State Republican Committee bash on April 14 -- less than a week before the primaries here.

State GOP spokeswoman Jessica Proud said Monday that Kasich has also said he will attend. All three presidential contenders had been invited and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz has not yet indicated whether he'll be there.

Cruz and Trump have been engaging in a bitter battle over one another's spouses, fueled by an anti-Trump ad from super PAC "Make America Awesome" that showed Trump's wife, Melania, a former model, posing naked on his jet in a photo for GQ. While Cruz distanced himself from the ad and has no ties to the super PAC, Trump hit back, attacking Cruz's wife, Heidi, saying he will "spill the beans" on her if Cruz isn't careful.

A number of Twitter posts have included the back-and-forth between the GOP front-runner and his closest rival in the last few days, including over the Easter weekend.

Kasich, in an interview with Chuck Todd on "Meet the Press," said attacking families should be off limits in the campaigns.

On the subject of the $1,000-plate black-tie affair at the Grand Hyatt in Midtown Manhattan, GOP state Chairman Ed Cox seemed elated.

"As we'd hoped, this event and primary season is shaping up to be an exciting one for New York Republicans," he said. "We're thrilled to welcome Gov. Kasich to our gala where he will be able to speak directly to rank-and-file Republicans who attend this event from across the state. The attendance of two presidential candidates at our annual event proves New York is finally getting its moment in the primary process, and it's the voters who will benefit most. This year's event will be one for the history books."
The Cleveland City Council has partnered with Bradley County and the Chamber of Commerce to consider hiring Livability  a community marketing website  to help promote Cleveland on a larger scale.

Council members discussed Livability during Monday afternoons work session. It is a third party narrative that explores what makes small-to-medium sized cities great places to live, a company representative said.

The company aims to put Cleveland on a bigger map through photography and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) strategies to draw in new visitors, families, and businesses.

Livability officials say, Through proprietary research studies, engaging articles and original photography and video, we examine topics related to community amenities, education, sustainability, transportation, housing and the economy.

The website, which has caught the attention of major media outlets like CNN and USA Today, takes the collected data to develop city rankings for a range of topics including small towns, college towns, and its annual Top 100 Best Places to Live.

During the work session, Councilman Bill Estes asked how much it would cost, to which the representative answered $30,000, a price that would be split evenly between the City Council, County Commission, and Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Tom Rowland said it is a great program, and that he would add it to the agenda for the voting session later that day.

Councilman Estes said the representatives five-minute presentation was not long enough for him to be able to vote on the program today. He said he would like to see metrics of the companys effectiveness to bring people into the cities it promotes.

On his way out of the meeting, the representative handed out a company list of references to the City Council. Mayor Rowland moved voting on hiring Livability to a later date.

The website markets nearby cities like Brentwood and Chattanooga as places of livability. Chattanooga landed on the sites Top 100 Best Places to Live in 2014.
The Mel Bedwell Small Business Person Award luncheon, slated for May 2 at the Museum Center at 5ive Points, will kick off a month long focus on the contributions of small business to the economic well-being of Cleveland/Bradley County.



The Small Business Committee of the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce presents this annual recognition event.



Highlighting the luncheon is recognition of an outstanding small business person in the community, recognized for his/her success in six areas: staying power, growth in number of employees, increase in sales, innovativeness of product or service offered, response to adversity, and evidence of contributions to the community.



We are accepting nominations for this award now, said Jerry Bird, president of The Bird Group/FranNet and chairman of the Small Business Committee. Small businesses are the backbone of the economic well-being for our community, and we believe it is important to recognize their success.



"The Chambers board of directors renamed the Small Business Person of the Year Award several years ago to honor the memory of Mel Bedwell, who was known for his energy, determination, ingenuity, honesty, enthusiasm and loyaltyall traits necessary for a successful small business owner," officials said. Mr. Bedwell was an owner with Jack Smith of Cleveland Business Machines.



Nomination forms for this award are available at the Chamber of Commerce; on the Chamber website in the download section of the membership information; or by emailing Bernadette Douglas at bdouglas@clevelandchamber.com. All nominations are due by April 11.
Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprise is hosting the second annual Money School on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Brainerd Crossroads. Money School is a free financial education day open to the public.

The event will include speakers and exhibitors providing hands-on learning opportunities regarding money management, debt elimination, increased savings as well as retirement and estate planning.

"Building a strong neighborhood requires financially empowered citizens," said Martina Guilfoil, president and CEO of CNE. "Money management skills and financial knowledge play an integral role in creating a strong neighborhood. Money School provides the necessary tools and resources for Chattanoogans to feel empowered with their finances.



Money School will be focused on four financial areas, offering a range of related workshops. The workshops will be grouped into the following areas: 1) Making Informed Financial Choices, 2) Financing Your Future, 3) Managing Financial Products and 4) Money Skills for Teens and Tweens.

These workshops will be led by experts in the field. There will also be five panel discussions specifically targeted to financial issues facing baby boomers, gen Xers, millennials, homeowners, and entrepreneurs. Attendees may register in advance to obtain free tax preparation, credit report analysis, mortgage assessments and one-on-one personal finance advice.

Research shows that last year, American households racked up more the $57 billion of new credit card debt-on top of that Americans owe more than $1.2 trillion in student loan debt, said Jennifer Holder, communications and special projects manager for CNE. In order to understand money, you must understand how to manage it, know how it works in real-world applications and how you can use it as a tool to help others, in addition to growing your own stability and security. We believe that Money School will help the public gain confidence with their financial decisions moving forward.

The goal of Money School is to help Chattanoogans improve their understanding of financial concepts and services so they are empowered to make informed choices and take action to improve their present and long-term financial well being, said officials.

At Money School 2015, 95 percent of survey respondents said they were more knowledgeable about financial products and feel more confident in knowing the steps to achieve financial security. In addition, 75 percent of respondents set new financial goals such as paying off credit card, school or other debts, diversifying investments and setting retirement, estate and long term care plans.

In addition to CNE, local organizations participating in the day include Partnership for Families, Children & Adults Consumer Credit Counseling Service, Junior Achievement, Common Cents Financial Literacy, DRW Financial, Tennessee Saves, Martin Pierce Law Firm, UTs Cooperative Extension, Empower Chattanooga, New York Life Insurance Company, The Company Lab (CO.LAB), LAUNCH, SCORE, Foresight, Chattanooga Hamilton County Health Department, Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation, Public Education Foundation, US Small Business Administration, Chattanooga Public Libraries, Bridge Financial Planning, Grassroots Midtown, and more. Sponsors include Lyndhurst Foundation, Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust, Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, Grant, Konvalinka and Harrison, BB&T Bank, Citizens Tri-County Bank, HHM Certified Public Accountants, Smart Bank, Cohutta Banking Company, a division of Synovus Bank, EPB Fiber Optics, Pinnacle Bank, Schultz and Associates and more.

For more information about Chattanooga Neighborhood Enterprises Money School event, including the schedule, visit www.MoneySchoolCHA.org. Brainerd Crossroads is located at 4011 Austin St.
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13-Year-Old Who Spoke Out Against Gun Violence Hit By Stray Bullet

By Mae Rice in News on Mar 28, 2016 3:12PM

Thirteen-year-old Zarriel Trotter, who appeared in an award-winning anti-violence video PSA, was hit by a stray bullet Friday night. He underwent surgery for his injury Saturday morning at Mt. Sinai Hospital, and was recoveringbut sedated and still in critical conditionas of Saturday night.

"I don't want to live around in my community where I got to keep on hearing and hearing people keep on getting shot, people keep on getting killed," Trotter says in the PSA, which you can watch here:

The video was filmed at Trotter's Austin school, Circle Rock Charter School last year, according to the Sun-Times; it went on to win a Mosaic Media Image Award for Advocacy Media from the American Advertising Federation.

Trotter was shot at 8:30 p.m on Friday, in the 5500 block of West Jackson Boulevard in South Austin, police report. He was hit in the lower back, near his spine, and was not the intended target, according to police.

Officer Veejay Zala, a Chicago police spokesman, told the Tribune that the shooting began with an argument between two groups. A man from one of the groups pulled out a gun and fired shots.

Were all praying he stays strong, his schools principal, Elizabeth Jamison-Dunn, told the Sun-Times.

No arrests have been made in connection to the shooting, and police are still investigation, police said Monday.
Radovan Karadzics sentence of 40 years' imprisonment is in stark contrast to the life terms imposed on others, said Geoffrey Nice, who was a deputy prosecutor at the trial of Slobodan Milosevic in The Hague, in an interview with RFE/RL.

Living victims of these horrible crimes would probably each think that one death of a loved one would merit life imprisonment. But the court, in imposing a fixed term, seems to have no understanding of how negative is the consequence for victims -and for the region as a whole - of imposing sentences of this kind that make no sense to them.

Maybe the time has come when some aspect of sentencing should be taken away from the discretion of the judges for particularly serious crimes. For such grave crimes - once established to have been committed - life sentences could be imposed automatically, emphasized Nice.

RFE: Many people, particularly in Bosnia-Herzegovina, are disappointed with the 40-year sentence given to Karadzic after he was found guilty of genocide in Srebrenica. His close associate, Zdravko Tolimir, was sentenced to life on similar charges. Doesn't Karadzic deserve life imprisonment as well?



Nice: Ill come to that in just a second because I would like first all of to observe that not finding genocide for 1992-3 in seven municipalities is, some would say, unfortunate. It may be reviewed on appeal. But, it is not an unsurprising decision given that the judges would have been making a wholly new departure from any previous ICTY or ICJ decisions in finding genocide for those municipalities.

Dealing with your specific question, the summary judgment reads satisfactorily - from a lawyers point of view - up and until the moment when it deals with genocide at Srebrenica, for which, along with all other crimes proved, the 40 year term was imposed.

It almost seems, from the way the judgment has been written, that there was some reluctance by the court to spell out in terms that it was genocide; the word was barely used in dealing with the conviction for count 2 until the very end when the sentence was imposed

It almost seems, from the way the judgment has been written, that there was some reluctance by the court to spell out in terms that it was genocide; the word was barely used in dealing with the conviction for count 2 until the very end when the sentence was imposed. Curiously, before the sentence was imposed, there was reference to mitigation following a rather curious reference to the Holbrook agreement that was said to have been made between Holbrook and Karadzic. There followed a reference to it being a mitigating factor that Karadzic resigned from the office in 1996.

I find that it hard to accept that there is any mitigation in a mans resignation from the very office in which he made decisions leading to thousands of criminal killings and after which he went into hiding. This is a man who has never acknowledged responsibility, who kept open the issue of his quilt for so many years that those seeking a judgment in order to settle their lives  (I mean living victims and the relatives and friends of those killed)  have had to wait.

I simply dont understand how it was said to be a mitigating factor.

This 40 year sentence could result - from rough calculations I have made about time served and time-off for good behavior in Karadzic being returned to leave in free society, should he survive, by the time he is 90 years old.

RFE: Even some people from the Bosniak side said that, although Karadzic deserves life imprisonment, this sentence is virtually the same, given Karadzics age. But, others suggest that symbolically, and as a matter of principle, there is a huge difference between a 40-year sentence and a life sentence.



Nice: There are practical and policy issues here. Practically, let us assume that he would serve two thirds of the sentence imposed less time he spent in custody. It means he could serve less than 20 years from now.

That is a practical reality.

As of matter of principle, it is extremely important, for those who think sentences for crime bring benefits to society as a whole, to draw a distinction between life imprisonment and imprisonment for any fixed term.

This court should have as its priority the interest of victims. Yet the court when sentencing only really considers other objectives of retribution and deterrence. Victims interests may be included in the way retribution is reflected in punishment imposed, but they are not otherwise identified as part of the sentencing process.

People waited 21 years to have some resolution achieved by a sentence against Karadzic and other high office holders from RS and VRS. Unsurprisingly, the verdict and sentence has left very many of those people in a state of some distress and despair; and, of course, they are hugely disappointed in the court.

RFE: What are the reasons for the Hague tribunal's decision not to sentence Karadzic to life and to clear him of charges for genocide in seven other municipalities? If Karadzic had been found guilty of genocide in this case, would have it implied a possible reversal in the matter of Bosnias genocide charge against Serbia, which was rejected by the International Court for Justice?





Judge Kwon was a judge on the Milosevic case and his assessment of evidence was different from that of his fellow judges who found, after conclusion of the Prosecution case, that there was sufficient evidence to go on with the genocide count against Milosevic. Judge Kwon was unable to draw the required inference about Milosevics genocidal mental state and only found sufficient evidence to go ahead on different modes of culpability for genocide. So, to some extent you can see consistency in judge Kwons reaction to and assessment of evidence.

Nice: I simply dont know and cant responsibly comment on what influences, if any, may have been at work additional to the assessment of evidence made by the judges in respect of count 1 about genocide in these municipalities. I can observe that Judge Kwon was a judge on the Milosevic case and his assessment of evidence was different from that of his fellow judges who found, after conclusion of the Prosecution case, that there was sufficient evidence to go on with the genocide count against Milosevic. Judge Kwon was unable to draw the required inference about Milosevics genocidal mental state and only found sufficient evidence to go ahead on different modes of culpability for genocide. So, to some extent you can see consistency in judge Kwons reaction to and assessment of evidence.

Your second point is well made. Probably the only way now possible for those interested in and on behalf of Bosnian victims to achieve a satisfactory result about genocide in 1992-3, is to seek revision of the International Court of Justices decision. Bosnia has got only few months left for the Bosnian government to take the decision to seek revision using arguments to show it was state against state commission of genocide by Serbia against Bosnia; and it will need to make a case for genocide in 1992/3 as well as later in 1995. But the government in Sarajevo seems reluctant, despite all advice it has received, to initiate revision. It must understand that if it doesnt initiate revision, the Bosnian Muslim component of BiH may regard the government as failing in its duty to respect their suffering and loss.

RFE: What can be expected next? Both sides will apparently appeal. Can the court reverse its sentence and send Karadzic to prison for life? In addition, can the court reverse its acquittal of Karadzic on genocide charges in the seven municipalities?



Nice: I certainly expect both sides to appeal and the prosecution may be regarded as having more prospect of success in appealing the 40 year sentence than the 1992-3 genocide acquittal.

RFE: If Karadzic is acquitted on genocide in the seven municipalities, will the same approach be applied in Ratko Mladic's case too?





I think that it is immensely unfortunate that in all these trials the judges operate in very remote circumstances. They have not been to the region much or at all

Nice: Im not sure. Its a different trial chamber. However, the reactions to Karadzics sentence may have some effect on the attitude of judges in Mladics case. I think that it is immensely unfortunate that in all these trials the judges operate in very remote circumstances. They have not been to the region much or at all. It is not their fault, but they are disabled by the adversarial legal system imposed from having direct contact with victims and those who suffered. This may be one of many reasons contributing to the sense of unreality of these trials leading to judgments that do not satisfy victims even where, as in this case, the courts overall conclusions clearly do reflect the immense suffering of thousands of people.

RFE: Serbian officials, as well as those in the Bosnian Serb entity, have rejected Karadzic's sentence as biased. Serbian Prime Minister Aleksandar Vucic said Serbia cannot permit any threat to the existence and survival of Republika Srpska.



Nice: The comments are unsurprising. If you have a justice process, then you may always have people who will forever resist the findings of that process and any effects that court findings could have on political situations. But if you ask, in general, whether it is a good thing to have a justice process, my view is that it is a good thing.

However one reality is that individuals generally - and states in particular - do not confess to what they have done that is wrong.

Yet, pretty clearly, those who were involved on the side of Karadzic in these conflicts knew from the beginning that what they were doing was criminal. There was no justification for what they did. People have started to overlook that. For Serbia and Republika Srpska to react now on the political consequences of committing grave crimes is unfortunate. It is not going to help reconciliation. I suppose it may entrench and perpetuate division and such reactions will serve as a reminder for all people to understand  lawyers and everybody else  that you cannot expect states or individuals committing grave crimes ever to confess, because individuals and states almost never do. The right to deny  and to lie when you deny  liability for crime is highly respected.

If there will be consequences for Republika Srpska arising from any court finding that its creation and continuing existence have in part or whole been the result of genocide, than other consequence that follow form such a court finding will be fair

You have to incorporate human reality if and when you decide to have court system looking at war crimes. Because the sort of consequences you identified in Belgrade and Republika Srpska today may be inevitable consequences of trying crimes such as were committed by Karadzic. My view remains that they should be tried. Serbia and Republika Srpska should be left with no doubt that they have to recognize and respect the decision of the court set up by the international community to review the criminality of what was done in these conflicts.

If there will be consequences for Republika Srpska arising from any court finding that its creation and continuing existence have in part or whole been the result of genocide, than other consequence that follow form such a court finding will be fair.

Many people have been astonished that Republika Srpska has achieved independence - to the extent it has - within Bosnia despite the way in which it was created; and if there are to be political consequences of this Karadzic judgment confirming that creation of this quasi state was by genocide, so be it.

The international community as a whole has got to realize that its favoring Republika Srpskas advance towards independent existence and Serbias advance towards membership of the EU Europe must take account of, and face up, to how what was been done in Republika Srpska was brought bygenocide with assistance  many think although not covered in this judgment  from Serbia itself.

RFE: In conclusion, are you saying that Karadzics sentence wont contribute to the reconciliation of these once-warring sides?



Nice: Criminal trials never really aim at reconciliation; it is not their true function and they never bring reconciliation as a matter of course. Their limitations point to the need for genuine openness toward reconciliation processes for which a fair, efficient justice mechanism may be an essential part of the post-conflict background. But we see no sign of openness among the once-warring parties of the former Yugoslavia. No side of the conflict is really willing to go through a genuine peace and reconciliation process  as has happened elsewhere. So we are left with criminal trial verdicts  of which this latest verdict is one of importance  and the consequences they have for individuals and the region as a whole.
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Interactive Show Serves Up Tea And Iraq War Stories At Links Hall

By Chicagoist_Guest in Arts & Entertainment on Mar 28, 2016 3:00PM



Photo courtesy of Aaron Hughes and Amber Ginsburg of the Tea Project

By Nathalie Lagerfeld

At the end of each day of Aaron Hughes missions in Iraq, the migrant laborers at his military postan international group, originally from countries ranging from Sri Lanka to Pakistanwould always perform the same ritual. Theyd roll out a rug, take out a hot plate and tea kettle and start to prepare teatea that was always generously offered to whichever soldiers happened to be around, Hughes told Chicagoist.

When Hughes returned from the Iraq War disillusionedhes an active member of Iraq Veterans Against the Warhis memory of peacefully drinking tea with the migrant workers survived. That glimmer of humanity and hope during wartime became the genesis of the Tea Project, a series of installations and events that aim to open a dialogue around the War on Terror. Hughes and his collaborator Amber Ginsburg will bring the latest round to Links Hall from March 31 to April 16.

The Tea Project will host two types of events in Chicago, united by, well, tea. At one of them, Tea Performances, Hughes shares tales of his own experiences in Iraq to spur a conversation with the audience. The other, Tea Engagements, is a cabaret-style show that bring together speakers from diverse disciplines to address human rights topics.

At Tea Engagements, hosts serve teas from the home countries of Guantanamo detainees, like Pakistani milk tea. The rotating lineup for the Links Hall Tea Engagements will include lawyers from The Center for Constitutional Rights, the editor of the New York Times bestseller Guantanamo Diary, and peace activist Kathy Kelly of Voices for Creative Nonviolence. The series also includes one performance of playwright Rohina Maliks piece Unveiled, a one-woman show about the lives of five Muslim women, on April 4.

We felt it was important for us both to engage in the Tea Project, but also to offer this performance opportunity to other voices,said Ginsburg, an artist and lecturer in Visual Arts at the University of Chicago. Especially other voices that might not be heard as commonly.



Photo courtesy of Aaron Hughes and Amber Ginsburg of the Tea Project

The Tea Performances tend to get more personal for the artists and their audiences. As Hughes prepares piping-hot cups of Alwazah tea with cardamom at Tea Performances, he shares his own stories of the war, and invites audience members to share their memories, too. The goal is for them to interrogate their own complicity in the legacy of the Iraq War, including xenophobia, racism, Islamophobia, and violence. Its building an arc of these short stories I tell, and also building an arc of these peoples experiences, Hughes said.

For those who are worried about sharing personal stories around such touchy subjects, have no fear; speaking up is not required. If you say expect to participate, that can really put people off, said Ginsberg. While there is a certain performance tradition that breaks the third wall to put the audience on the spot, she added, thats not really what the Tea Performances are about.



Photo courtesy of Aaron Hughes and Amber Ginsburg of the Tea Project

Instead, the sessions are more about contemplation. Moments of silenceeven awkward onesare accepted, even encouraged as part of the experience. The piece would still happen if no one shared, Hughes said. When the dialogue dies down or goes off the rails, I just tell another story. Once Hughes performance is done, participants are invited to stay and discuss their thoughts over teathough this, too, is optional.



Like the tea itself, the cups in which the tea is served are an important part of the performance. Inspired by the story of a Guantanamo guard who fell in love with the intricate decorations detainees would carve into their styrofoam cups, Ginsburg and Hughes cast 779 cups in porcelain, each engraved with the name and nationality of one detainee. Ginsburg and Hughes are slowly returning cups to the detainees homelands: so far Hughes has taken 20 cups to Afghanistan and four to Turkey. We dont really feel like they belong to us, Hughes said. They aim to eventually repatriate all 779 cups.

All Tea Performances and Tea Engagements at Links Hall (3111 N. Western Ave.) are free, but guests are encouraged to RSVP here.

Correction, March 29: Previously, the first sentence of this post read "At the end of each day of Aaron Hughes tour of duty in Iraq, the Iraqis at his Army camp would perform the same ritual." Really, Hughes went to Iraq on missions and was stationed at a military post; the people who performed the ritual were migrant workers from neither Iraq nor the US, not Iraqis.
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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(0x5612e2529ec0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02d3d00)', '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(0x5612e2529ec0)') 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(0x5612f02d3d00)') 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(0x5612efe32428)') 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(0x5612f02d3d00)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02d3d00)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612e5770548)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0237c58)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0237c58)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
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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(0x5612f0240500)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0244e10)', '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(0x5612f0240500)') 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(0x5612f0244e10)') 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(0x5612f012ff20)') 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(0x5612f0244e10)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0244e10)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50cb38)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f022d9a8)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f022d9a8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
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/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(0x5612f02004a8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0255950)', '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(0x5612f02004a8)') 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(0x5612f0255950)') 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(0x5612f0262390)') 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(0x5612f0255950)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0255950)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50cc88)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f01fdcd8)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f01fdcd8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
Rahm Names Eddie Johnson Interim Police Chief Amid Pressure From Black, Latino Caucuses

By Rachel Cromidas in News on Mar 28, 2016 8:55PM





Updated: 3:50 p.m.: Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced Chief of Patrol Eddie Johnson's appointment as the new interim superintendent of the Chicago Police Department Monday afternoon. According to a statement, he will ask the Police Board to conduct a new search for the permanent replacement for ex-police chief Garry McCarthy.

The Sun-Times broke the news over the weekend that Johnson, the department's current chief of patrol, is Emanuel's choice for top-cop, even though he was not one of the three finalists for the job chosen by the Chicago Police Board earlier this month.

The Sun-Times reported that Johnson has been offered a $260,044 salary to fill the position left open when ex-superintendent Garry McCarthy was ousted during the fallout from last year's revelation that a Chicago police officer was caught on video fatally shooting a teenaged Laquan McDonald 16 times as he attempted to flee. Though the mayor is required by law to select a police chief from the Police Board's pool of candidates, Emanuel will reportedly circumvent the law by naming Johnson the new interim superintendent and then asking the police board to consider Johnson for the permanent position.

According to the Monday afternoon statement from the mayor's office, Johnson is a Chicago native "who grew up in Cabrini-Green until he was 9-years-old before moving to Washington Heights," where he lives now. He joined the police force as a patrolman in May 1988, and since then he has served as lieutenant in the 15th District, Commander in the 6th District, Deputy Chief for Area Central, Executive Officer, and Chief of Patrol, among other position.

The mayor's office says Johnson reduced crime in the areas under his watch: "Under his leadership, Area Central led the city in 2013 with a 32% reduction in firearm related violence, lowering the number of murders, shootings and shooting victims in Area Central. And during his tenure as the Deputy Chief of Area Central in 2014, his team continued to drive down firearm related violence. Under his watch, Area Central patrol drove down shootings by an additional 27% -- double the shooting reduction of other Areas in the city at the time."



"Eddie has proven to be a terrific leader and fair boss who puts his officers first and has their backs," Emanuel said in the statement. "He has also been willing to hold officers accountable when necessary. I have full confidence that in the coming months he will run this department just like he has approached his other command positions -- with independence, hard work, and a love for this police department."

Shortly after the mayor's Monday afternoon announcement, Johnson announced that he was promoting Fred Waller to Chief of Patrol (the position Johnson previously held) and Kevin Navarro to Deputy Chief of Area South. Waller was Deputy Chief of Area South until today, and Navarro was commander of the Area South Detective Division.

Chicago cop John Escalante, whom the mayor thanked in his speech, was serving as the interim police chief. The police board had already chosen three finals for the permanent job: Deputy police superintendent Eugene Williams, retired Spokane, Washington police chief Anne Kirkpatrick and Cedric Alexander, the public safety director for a Georgia county and the only person of color among the finalists. Of those candidates, the Tribune reports that Alexander was Emanuel's favorite, but that he preferred to pick a department insiderperhaps under pressure from black and Latino aldermen.

In a statement to the Tribune, mayoral spokeswoman Kelly Quinn said Emanuel called the candidates on Saturday to tell them they did not have the job.

"While each of the finalists had strong qualifications, the mayor did not feel that any of them were the complete package that Chicago needs at this time, and thus none were offered the position. The mayor called each of them individually late Saturday to let them know of his decision."

Johnson, an African American who has served with the department for 27 years, is "not a polarizing figure" in the police force, the Sun-Times wrote. Johnson was the commander of a far South Side police district until 2012, when McCarthy promoted him to deputy chief of patrol. Escalante promoted him to chief of patrol last December. At the time, the department released a statement praising Johnson's accomplishments:

Chief Johnson has significant experience managing large-scale special events and was instrumental in the operational planning and response of the 2012 NATO Summit. He has also served as a supervisor in the detective bureau and is currently completing his masters degree in public policy and administration at Northwestern University.

Johnson apparently has no complaints filed against him documented in the Citizens Police Data Project. And besides his credentials, Johnson's status as a longtime department veteran stands in contrast to the department's previous police chiefs, who were each criticized as outsiders. Pressure from the City Council's Black and Latino caucuses could also have something to do with Emanuel's decision. Latino aldermen have said they want Escalante to win the promotion, and suggested that racial bias may have led to him being passed over despite serving as interim superintendent since December.

Meanwhile, black aldermen have also said they would not vote to approve a new superintendent unless they are allowed to question the finalists first. The Sun-Times says the Black Caucus would evidently prefer an African-American superintendent chosen from within the department's ranks.

Police Board President Lori Lightfoot said in a statement Sunday morning that the police board "has not received formal communication from the Mayor regarding the three nominees it submitted for the position of Superintendent of Police," and "the Board will be taking no action until it receives such notification."
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm: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(0x5612f01fac90)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f03dcfb8)', '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(0x5612f01fac90)') 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(0x5612f03dcfb8)') 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(0x5612f00f7098)') 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(0x5612f03dcfb8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f03dcfb8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50c4e0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f042ecd8)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f042ecd8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm: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(0x5612f0202518)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0247580)', '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(0x5612f0202518)') 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(0x5612f0247580)') 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(0x5612f01fff70)') 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(0x5612f0247580)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0247580)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50caa8)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0267070)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0267070)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm: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(0x5612f0247eb8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0446bd8)', '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(0x5612f0247eb8)') 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(0x5612f0446bd8)') 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(0x5612f02a4780)') 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(0x5612f0446bd8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0446bd8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50c030)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0495b28)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f0495b28)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
System error

error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.

context: ... 21: </%method> 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: </%perl> 28: <table width="90%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> 29: <tr> ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25

/usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm: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(0x5612efe3af78)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50c718)', '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(0x5612efe3af78)') 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(0x5612ee50c718)') 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(0x5612efe3b920)') 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(0x5612ee50c718)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50c718)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612ee50ccd0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612efe2a038)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612efe2a038)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0
Two men are reportedly on the run after a 23-year-old man was shot repeatedly on a south Sydney street on Monday afternoon.

The two assailants approached the victim on foot and opened fire on Wollongong Street in Arncliffe at roughly 5.40pm, Seven News reported.

Witnesses called triple zero after the 23-year-old man was shot in Arncliffe on Monday afternoon. Credit:Anthony Girardi, Facebook

The man sustained three gunshot wounds to his stomach and legs.

Witnesses called triple zero and paramedics treated the conscious man at the scene before transporting him to St George Hospital where he is in a stable condition.
Former NSW auditor general Tony Harris says the ACT could squander a competitive advantage if it accepts an unsolicited bid to redevelop Manuka Oval.

Mr Harris, who has a lengthy background in weighing up the benefits of public-private partnerships, said ACT taxpayers would receive better value for their money if the government called open tenders for developing Manuka Oval.

An artist's impression of the proposed Manuka Oval redevelopment.

He said taxpayers would never know the financial outcome if the ACT Government accepted an unsolicited bid from Australia's biggest property developer Grocon and Greater Western Sydney Giants AFL club.

The GWS Giants-Grocon $800 million bid proposes a swathe of redevelopment including some of the Manuka pool for commercial and resident accommodation.
A man who allegedly robbed a woman after jumping in the back of her idling car on Sunday morning has told a court that police are trying to get him "stirred up" so he goes back to jail.

Dennis Lacey, 25, is accused of getting into the car at the intersection of Crick Place and Hennessy Street about 9.40am on Sunday.

It's alleged the man got out of the woman's car and ran off with her phone, before threatening her with a large piece of concrete. Credit:Marina Neil

The woman, who was alone, was told to drive him to Civic and then Charnwood, police said in a public statement released on Monday morning.
Photo taken on March 20, 2016 shows the chimes unearthed from the 2,000-year-old Haihunhou Tomb is displayed at the Capital Museum in Beijing. [Photo by Guan Weiwei/China.org.cn]

More than 400 artifacts unearthed from the tomb of Haihunhou (Marquis of Haihun) are now being exhibited at the Capital Museum in Beijing. The exhibition opened to the public on March 19, and will last until June 2.

"The tomb is of great value for the study of burial systems and history of the Han Dynasty," said Xin Lixiang, an archaeological expert, and head of the excavation team.

Origin of 'Haihun'

The Chinese character "hai" literally means "sea". "Hun" in Chinese usually describes timing of the sunset. The kingdom of Haihun is located on the west bank of Poyang Lake, which ancient people called "Hai". Haihun got its name from its geographical position.

Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation.
An investigation into Defence Housing Australia, which manages a $10 billion taxpayer-owned property portfolio, has been launched by the Australian Federal Police, after a referral from the Department of Finance.

No reason has been given for the referral, although there have been long running suggestions the federal government could look to privatise the DHA.

The DHA project at Crimson Hill, Lindfield.

It is the government body that leases and sells homes to defence personnel and many government buildings, including on-base housing at HMAS Cerberus and Puckapunyal Army Base (Victoria), Kapooka Village and RAAF Base Richmond (NSW) and 65 remote houses in Western Australia and North Queensland.

In a statement, the AFP confirmed reports by the ABC, that it had received a referral.
A tiny fruit fly is undermining Australia's efforts to grow its $4 billion fruit and vegetable exports, despite the country reaching a series of free trade agreements with its largest trading partners in Asia.

Australia sealed trade agreements with China, Japan and Korea last year - deals that guaranteed a significant reduction in tariffs for agriculture produce - and were heralded as a catalyst for rapid expansion in exports.

The Queensland fruit fly is causing headaches for would-be fruit exporters. Pic of Queensland fruit fly supplied by DPI victoria ...

The tariff cuts have pushed sales of agriculture produce to all-time highs, but difficulty obtaining biosecurity permits - so called phytosanitary protocol agreements - means many fruits in particular cannot be sold into markets like China, making free trade agreements often meaningless, industry executives say.

"Phytosanitary protocol agreements are the biggest hurdle we have to overcome to get our products into markets like China," said Annie Farrow, Industry services manager at the industry body, Apple and Pear Australia.
The New York Times has a new policy on the use of anonymous sources in reporting the news. Announced a week ago, the policy is designed to make it harder for journalists to allow unnamed politicians and officials to deliver stories that too often have proved to be at best skewed and at worst just plain wrong. Among other things, journalists will be obliged to tell senior editors the names of anonymous sources in their stories, so editors can judge whether reporters are being manipulated and even lied to by these shadowy no-name people.

Good on them. Mind you, The New York Times conducted a major review of the paper's use of anonymous sources in 2007, when the then executive editor Bill Keller apologised to readers for his paper's coverage of the lead-up to the Iraq War.

Illustration: Andrew Dyson

In March 2003, Times reporter Judith Miller wrote a series of articles revealing details of Saddam Hussein's arsenal of weapons of mass destruction and his determination to develop a nuclear arsenal. Miller's articles were based on anonymous sources  sources she said were in intelligence, in Congress and in the Pentagon.

It turned out that Miller's sources were one source, Lewis "Scooter" Libby, who worked for the then vice-president Dick Cheney and was later charged, convicted and sentenced to jail for 30 months for having perjured himself in an FBI investigation.
Yes, he won the 2013 election but remember what he was up against. The Rudd-Gillard-Rudd team kept on giving to the Coalition. Abbott knew what he didn't want but as opposition leader he never had a comprehensive plan for the future. Being opposition leader is never just about being negative. It also requires the leader to bolster the credibility of the party so that the mandate from a future election win can be used to pursue the public interest. Abbott's lack of preparation was spelt out in the dying days of the election when he promised not to cut spending on education, health and the ABC.

Only the "del-cons", otherwise known as the delusional conservatives, would think throwing Abbott into the election is a good idea. And anyway, let's face it: Abbott has never been popular with the electorate.

Reading the media you could be forgiven for thinking that the main Easter news was all about whether Tony Abbott should, or not, campaign in the forthcoming election. The political reality is that whatever Abbott says during the election the chances are that it will be another story of dysfunction within the Coalition. In other words it will be a help to Labor.

Liberals would like to think that Abbott is going to support Malcolm Turnbull but the evidence of Abbott's behaviour does not back up their hopes. It's much more likely that Abbott thinks he is preparing his return, with his former chief of staff, Peta Credlin, helping him by apparently joining Sky News. If that is his real ambition, he will be remembered as the leader of the del-cons, all three or four of them.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has committed to traditional cabinet process which seems to be working well. Credit:Andrew Meares

If Abbott wants to ever get back into a useful role in politics he needs to preserve the respect that many have had for his past efforts. If he keeps undermining Turnbull, especially in an election when MPs are working hard to keep their seats, then the former prime minister will soon find that his legacy is seen as a present to Labor and a disaster for good policy.

I suspect that the story of when Treasurer Scott Morrison first heard about the change of the date for the budget also came from the del-cons. The story was laughable. The July 2 election was so obvious that it was publicly announced by Graham Richardson on Sky News at least three weeks before the formal statement. It was hardly a surprise and the change of the budget to May 3 was inevitable, given the time constraints set out in the Constitution.

Of course there is often some tension between a prime minister and treasurer. There was plenty of that between Bob Hawke and Paul Keating, particularly in their first five or six years. There was also some between John Howard and Peter Costello. In both cases it'd be a worry if there was not some tension from time to time but it did not seriously impact on the performance of either government. Costello had his moments of frustration: I know because I sat next to him for years and I agreed with him, especially on the need for fiscal restraint. Turnbull and Morrison get on pretty well and neither of them will take their focus off the tasks ahead.
A major myth that permeates the recent debate on housing affordability is that the present level of housing supply is not meeting demand. Scarcity of housing, we are repeatedly told, is driving up prices. The same voices simplistically suggest, reduce the barriers caused by planners and housing supply will respond, bringing affordability back into the market.

But more reasoned voices can be heard above the clamour, focussing on the perverse effects of our highly skewed housing taxation and subsidy system, as well as a complete lack of a national housing policy framework to support affordable housing. Nevertheless, throughout this debate there is little recognition of the broader shifts in housing stock, tenure and housing opportunity that these policies have created.

At the last census there were nearly 120,000 empty dwelling in the greater Sydney region alone, representing nearly one fifth of the projected new housing demand to be met by 2031, or equivalent to nearly five years of projected dwelling need. When this is combined with under-utilised dwellings, such as those let out as short-term accommodation, the total number of dwellings reaches 230,000 in Sydney, and 238,000 in Melbourne.
Duncan Smith had rapidly proved a total failure as opposition leader, back in 2001. He'd tried to turn his lack of charisma into a plus, with advertisements blaring "do not underestimate the quiet man". It turned out, however, that it was impossible to underestimate the man. Attempts to reposition IDS as a "man of action" made passivity into a desirable trait. It was only a matter of time before he was shafted and his colleagues weren't even prepared to give him a shot at contesting a general election; they valued their own careers too much. But IDS wasn't the sort of person to retire gracefully  failed political leaders rarely are. Instead, the self-appointed "ideas man" began spouting old answers to new problems. The European Court of Justice rejected some of these as "unfit for a modern democracy"; however, IDS was not dismayed. He'd faced rejection before and so sat, anger slowly festering, until finally he saw a chance to strike.

Ian Duncan Smith, or IDS (surname "Duncan Smith"; after all, a former Scots Guards officer could never be merely "Lieutenant Smith") had an urgent need for revenge after being supplanted as conservative leader. Disability reform came readily to hand. It was simply a convenient cudgel with which to beat the Prime Minister.

Despite wiping the floor with Labour less than a year ago, Britain's conservative government is in disarray. The budget's been rejected; backbenchers are openly canvassing the possibility of replacing Prime Minister David Cameron with peripatetic self-aggrandiser (and occasional Canberra Times columnist) Boris Johnson; and hardline Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne's ill-disguised ambitions to lead the country have been dispatched to the outfield. All, supposedly, because the budget slashed disability benefits  or perhaps not. My friend sighed. "This spat was only ever about ambition, sparked by one man's pent-up frustration."

The light rain shower passed quickly and a soft, light-blue glow suffused the London sky. The gleam coming from my friend's face was, however, one of absolute incredulity. "Absolutely not!" She was insistent. "What's happened has absolutely nothing to do with policy. Politics so rarely does. And it certainly wasn't about people with a disability."

This came just over a week ago with the release of the British budget. The headline stunt was meant to be the imposition of a "sugar tax" on soft drinks and snack bars; unfortunately for the government, it didn't take people long to realise that the way it was balancing the budget also involved swingeing cuts to benefits. IDS seized his chance. The quiet man unsheathed a razor sharp stiletto to plunge it into Osborne's back.

The cuts were, he insisted, "deeply unfair", as indeed they were. Almost as unfair as ones he'd advocated earlier, when he'd urged those with disabilities to "work their way out of poverty". His apparent hypocrisy neutered his attack far more than anything the Chancellor could have said in his own defence, of course, and the scandal rapidly degenerated into a farce exposing B-grade actors full of petty grudges and suppurating grievances. There's more, of course, much more, and the whole bizarre circus really deserves a half-hour episode in a tedious soap opera, if for no other reason than to demonstrate the pettiness of politics. The colour and hypocrisy of IDS suddenly appointing himself defender of the vulnerable should be enough by itself to guarantee solid comedy ratings, as should Osborne's former dismissal of his one-time leader as "not particularly clever". But that's not the point here. The issue is rather to examine the way individuals come to believe their election to political office bestows a halo of righteousness allowing them  and them alone  to correctly divine right from wrong.

Which is, of course, rubbish. Ideologues deserve to be consigned to the extremities of the political spectrum, in a dustpan of putrid rubbish. And yet they're not. Why is it that no matter how half-baked the "idea" may be; and no matter how wild-eyed its earnest advocate is, it's treated with respect as long as it is "authentically held"? It's as if we, as a society, have somehow lost the ability to assert a common core of fundamental beliefs. How else is it possible to explain the rise of Donald Trump and fundamentalists of all persuasions? Why are the fringes so convinced of their inviolability and correctness, despite all evidence to the contrary? Where has the centre gone?

When she was Britain's prime minister, Margaret Thatcher said famously "there is no such thing as society". Today, no one would dare vocalise this sentiment, and yet it doesn't take much thought to recognise it's a concept that politicians will readily use for their own purposes. Instead of assuming, for example, that people with a disability might do better with our support to help them achieve things themselves, governments treat them as fraudsters sucking money from more deserving hands and rush to buy votes by redistributing benefits back to taxpayers.

Politicians behave as if there's a hollow core at the centre of modern society. We're being treated as if self-interest is the only thing that can motivate us, even though we're all aware we can achieve more together than individually. When the only time concern for the disadvantaged enters the political debate is so someone can seize the opportunity to make political capital out of it, you know it's the politicians who have lost their bearings.
But it gets even worse. The boy's parents have admitted that this stretch of road was a public road and they knew it was against the law for their son to drive on it. They knew their son's actions were illegal yet they still want to blame police instead of themselves as parents. I do not even need to get quotes from police on this latest episode. Quite frankly, they will not be able to say what they really want to say in our politically correct world. So I will say it for them. Am I the only one who cannot only see that a 14-year-old boy should not be driving in the first place, but to put him behind the wheel of a car to go and pick up his siblings just defies belief?

"It's just us and a few neighbours who use that stretch of road and none of them have ever had a problem with our children driving on it," the mother has been quoted as saying. Really? So, this is evidently not the first time the 14-year-old and perhaps another of his siblings has played the role of 'an adult' picking up kids from school?! And no neighbours have had alarm bells go off inside their heads that there is a 14-year-old not only driving unlicensed but being in charge of three other lives inside a lethal weapon? Or perhaps, in politically correct 2016, very few people are brave enough to do the right thing and speak out for fear of themselves being ostracised in a small town for doing the right thing and speaking out. But wait, there's more

"We don't think they were in any danger and weren't putting anyone else in danger. They don't drive anywhere public except that stretch and we don't let them go faster than 60km/h," the mother added. Well, that's very responsible of the parent, isn't it? She doesn't let 'them' go faster than 60km/h? That's so very magnanimous of her given that she is not in the car when they are driving to ever really know. The consequences are not the same as the kids eating all the chocolates when the parents weren't looking! It has now become typical for people who are clearly in the wrong to just deny reality, refuse to accept the consequences and seek to blame others for their poor behaviour. Does this mother really think her own children were never in any danger? Does she not see that apart from her own kids, she was putting other innocent road users at risk through her poor parenting decisions and blatant disregard of our driving laws? Just because they are living 265 kilometres from Perth does not mean people are immune to the same dangers faced by drivers every day in the city. In fact, given the carnage on our country roads, people in the regions should be paying even more attention to doing the right thing.

Since I know I am touching a raw nerve, and given the some of the issues identified in regional road fatalities, dare I even ask the question as to whether these four under-age children were all wearing a seat belt? South West District Inspector Kim Hutchinson has said officers were in the area after complaints about alleged hoon driving by some youths. I'm not insinuating at all that the 14-year-old boy was hoon driving, but what if the car he was driving in with his three siblings was actually rammed by a hoon driver with shocking consequences? Whether the road was sealed or unsealed or whether it was quiet or busy just does not matter. Accidents happen in the blink of an eye. Children, which last time I checked a 14-year-old was still considered one, do not have the training or experience to know how to drive to different conditions, which could include behaviour of other motorists.

The mother claims she would have preferred the local police officer to have just contacted her and her husband instead of charging him. "The officer could have told us to make them stop driving and issued him with a warning instead of charges," she said. Well, that's very nice of her. Not only does she again admit that what her son is doing is totally against the law, apparently the local police have all the time in the world to go and find her and her husband somewhere in the town and inform them of what they have admitted they already know- that their son should not have been driving himself, let alone his siblings! Talk about wasting police time. At this stage, the 14-year-old is likely to face several traffic charges.

"Our job is to enforce the law and I would rather, and I'm sure every police officer would rather, summons a juvenile for a traffic offence than tell the parents their child has died or been seriously injured," said Inspector Kim Hutchinson. The Inspector is wrong on one count. He cannot say it. As a columnist I can: If one of those children had died or been injured, you can bet your bottom dollar that those parents would be the first ones jumping up and down blaming police for NOT doing more. It seems that almost daily we hear about these cases of parenting stupidity that thankfully, I like to think, the majority of us would never even consider doing. Even if the child was pleading with his parents to be allowed to drive and pick up his siblings, the parents should have the ability to say NO but with modern parenting we see far too many cases of the tail wagging the dog.

Like most of us out there, I know it isn't easy to drive with three bickering kids in the car. But I make sure they are properly strapped into their seats every time before I take off and I wouldn't dream of letting them drive until such time as they are old enough to get a licence. In Western Australia, we all know of the problem with children stealing cars and driving unlicensed. It is an epidemic we have been unable to properly address for many decades. We shouldn't add to the number of unlicensed kids driving on our roads through a new category of 'parental permission' because the statistics are frightening. Of all hospitalisations of young Australians, almost half are drivers involved in a road traffic crash and another quarter are passengers. Teen drivers have the highest fatal crash risk of any age group. They also have the highest involvement rates in all types of crashes when measured by actual kilometres driven. About 45 per cent of all young Australian injury deaths are due to road traffic crashes. Young drivers aged 17 to 25 represent one-quarter of all Australian road deaths, despite making up less than 15 per cent of the licensed driver population. A 17-year-old P-plater is four times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than a driver older than 26 years old.
The US Navy has a new aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford. Named for the underwhelming vice-president who stepped up to the oval office when Richard Nixon resigned the US presidency over the Watergate scandal, it is first of a new class of 10 carriers that are planned to be built between now and the 2060s.

This is a remarkable declaration of the Pentagon's faith that such huge and massively expensive ships will remain for decades to come the best way for the United States to project power globally. It is also a big gamble that aircraft carriers and their air wings can not only survive in a future war at sea, but also achieve strategic results that justify their cost.

Some defence analysts question whether aircraft carriers such as the USS Harry S. Truman remain valid in the face of modern warfare.

Australia has a stake on this gamble too. Nowhere does US power rely as heavily on aircraft carriers as in Asia, and this is where maritime rivalry will be sharpest and the carriers will face their greatest challenge. So while we depend on American power, we too will depend on the Gerald R. Ford and its successors to prevail in a major naval contest.

This year is the 75th anniversary of the World War II attack on Pearl Harbour, when Japan showed the world what carriers could do, but it was the United States' carriers that won the maritime war that followed. They destroyed Japan's navy and opened the way for US land and air forces to Japan's home islands.
This satellite image shows the Yongshu Jiao of China's Nansha Islands. [Photo/Xinhua]

The United States has beefed up its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, especially in the South China Sea, over the past months, apparently to challenge China's lawful claims.

To some extent, Washington's agenda-setting tactics, including official announcements, outlandish media reports and so-called academic interpretations, have worked, giving Beijing's foreign affairs and defense authorities a hard time hitting back.

US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter said recently that the Pentagon is "constantly evaluating" China's militarization of the South China Sea, stopping short of agreeing with a Hawaii congressman's proposal to withdraw the invitation to China to take part in a high-profile global naval exercise. This could be another trick of US politicians in their media war against China.

US political heavyweights, including US President Barack Obama, Secretary of State John Kerry and senior military officials - even some anonymous officials - have been pushing Washington's agenda against Beijing, which normally starts with the US military playing hawkish and ends with the government departments suggesting a softer diplomatic stance toward China.

As key elements of Washington's diplomatic PR, US scholars and media are given exclusive official information from time to time, allowing them to come up with targeted comments and reports against China's lawful territorial claims and construction on the islands and reefs in the South China Sea.

The US will make more such efforts to blow out of proportion the Philippines' bid for international arbitration on the South China Sea issue, in order to justify its increasing intervention in the region.

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Sam Simmons and friend in The Urban Monkey With Murray Foote. He lets out a booming laugh. "I don't want to talk about it one-on-one. In front of 300 people in my undies? Fine." The late Rodney Dangerfield once joked: "My mother never breastfed me.She told me she only liked me as a friend." In reality Dangerfield's mother never gave him a kiss, a hug or a compliment. That he could transform a neglectful childhood into a lewd gag is testament to the fact that beyond the cliche of the sad clown are a host of performers who took the crap that life dealt them and fashioned it into something unrecognisable, and sometimes funny. Sam Simmons at his first gig in 2001, a parody of Sesame Street's Bert and Ernie. "He's probably one of the most high-functioning people I've ever met," says Simmons' wife Roslyn Durnford. "He's really, really good at compartmentalising what's good to dwell on and what's not good to dwell on. He does think deeply about things but doesn't dwell in sorrow."

"He's a really, really nice guy," says his oldest friend, Stuart Peevor. "He's such a generous person, such a warm person. He would never joke about someone with a disability or anything, or somebody who didn't deserve it. You'd want more people in society to be like him. He had a troubled childhood so he knows the value of being loving to people." If you want to describe what Simmons does, you could do worse than use the word he most frequently turns to himself: silliness. It might connote nonsense, or childishness, or the inconsequential, but when he's firing, Simmons' brand of silliness is weapons-grade. He uses it to disarm, to dismantle expectations of what "good" comedy looks like. Sustained for long enough, his act comes to feel like a kind of ritual exorcism, an ecstatic purging of fears and doubts. Not long after the bounty episode a word came to mind to describe Simmons' new show: shamanic. He uses the same word when we're talking the next day, and it ties into his vision of silliness. "Silly for me is being lost in a moment," he says. "When I'm really in it  it's a feeling of being lost in a moment, on stage."

The first thing Simmons does when we meet up on a crisp Adelaide morning is pull an old picture book from his bag. It's a second-hand thing from the 1970s he's just found in a shop, and its focus is on animals of the world. I have no idea why he's showing this to me.That's kind of what you're thinking throughout a Sam Simmons show, too. But just like his performances, there's nothing random about it. When I speak to Peevor, he insists I mention the comedian's love of animals. In an alternative universe Simmons is a zookeeper. He was far enough down that path that he was offered the opportunity to spend six months on the Cocos Islands with elephants in quarantine on their way to Australia. "That would have been the perfect amount of training in animal husbandry to come back and start the beginning of a career there," Simmons says. "I was right on the fence  But I still look at the animal stuff and go oh, I miss that. I'd love to do it again." Every one of Simmons' shows is packed with animals, but he never explains why. It's just a reflection of his world. Other aspects of his comedy can be traced back to formative influences, too. Raised by a single working mother, his babysitters were The Goodies, Monkey, Benny Hill. He carries them around inside his head. He says that there's probably a lot of John Cleese kicking around up there as well. "Without realising it he really must have influenced me. Just that rage of Basil Fawlty. I can't help it. It's in me. Everyone sees it. He encapsulates it, doesn't he? Rage and silliness combined. What a mix. It's perfect alchemy."

Peevor and Simmons met in year 8 while Simmons was living in Adelaide. "I remember him from day one being a bit of an odd cat," says Simmons' friend. "He's always been a bit of a performer. Not looking for attention but just expressing himself. Most of our high school time was spent trying to make each other laugh." Yet Simmons' first attempt at comedy wasn't until 2001, at a benefit gig for a friend whose handbag had been stolen, which is not the origin story of most Edinburgh Comedy Award winners. "Me and a fella named Greg Eales got up on stage and did a really terrible parody song thing called Smutty and Pert, like Ernie and Bert. How lame is that?It was the worst. But it was there it began." Simmons was working at St Kilda icon Greasy Joe's and the now-defunct diner's famous horseshoe-shaped counter gave him an audience in the round. "You would have a mixture of people around that bar which included sex workers, mums and their kids, a really racist old Vietnam vet, drag queens. It was this weird amalgam of people around this bar and I found it wonderful. I would perform for them and really draw an audience. And I got a little bit of a bug for it." He began to perform in comedy rooms. "Never did stand-up. I was always just doing my own thing." One of his earliest supporters was Melbourne comedy doyenne Janet McLeod, who gave him a two-month residency at her Local Laughs night. "I was an early adopter of Sam Simmons," says McLeod. "I put him on every couple of weeks to see what would happen. He was varying levels of great and shit. Some ideas he would come up with would not translate to people or just be technologically messy or something, but I always enjoyed whatever he attempted."

McLeod says that Simmons has synaesthesia, the condition in which senses overlap, so that sounds can seem to have colours or flavours come with their own audio track. "In giving him feedback about stuff I would put myself into that mindset and give him feedback based on different sensory ideas," she says. "I would describe comedy and the things he was doing in terms of music and in terms of movement. He'd go 'I don't know why that didn't work' and I'd describe it musically and he'd go 'oh, got it'." This might help explain the sensory confusion of Simmons' shows, too, which pile on music, pre-recorded dialogue, food (so much food),mountains of costumes, constant lighting shifts, original drawings, frequent excursions beyond the stage, props that are never used and audience members who often are. If you write the sheer variety of his act off as mere weirdness, you might lose sight of the fact that an hour with Simmons is a tour of the comic spectrum: physical comedy, musical comedy, sketch and character work, puns, one-liners, shaggy dog stories, mime, crowd work, visual gags, observational comedy, meta-comedy and more, all delivered with the kind of pummelling intensity that can eventually have you laughing at a bounty on someone's head. Just don't go thinking any of it is  you know. "Tell me what's random about it? That's in there for that reason and sets off that later on. I know what I'm doing. It's trying to do a funny version of something like Inception. It's lame to say that but I like that things trigger other things and that's the point of it." These days Simmons bounces between London, Los Angeles and Australia. He's spent at least a year of the last four in LA, and has a feeling that's where he may end up. He regularly does underground gigs there with fellow comedian Dr Brown  the only other performer to win those two top comedy awards for the same show  and the two are developing a TV series that sounds like an all-comedy version of Breaking Bad. He also feels a spiritual kinship with the oft-derided Californian city. "There's this weird hippie thing that I love. I go to yoga and have people talking to me about putting the bad stuff away and planting it in the soil beneath your feet and I'm like 'yeah, I'll do that, all right!' I love it! Also, I have a little drinking problem, I know I do, and when I'm here I drink. I don't do that over there."
After a week of disastrous ratings, Channel Nine has blasted Reno Rumble out of its 7.30pm timeslot.

From April 4, a new season of reality show Married at First Sight will replace the renovation program on Mondays and Tuesdays. Back-to-back episodes of American sitcom The Big Bang Theory will fill the hole on Wednesdays.

Ratings disaster: Gold Logie winner Scott Cam co-hosts Reno Rumble on Channel Nine.

Nine will air remaining episodes of Reno Rumble at 8.50pm on Mondays and 8.40pm on Tuesdays.
The Turnbull government is closely examining ways to get more graduates to pay back their higher education debts, as a new report finds reducing repayment thresholds for HECS and other student loans would rake in half a billion dollars a year.

The report, by the respected Grattan Institute, has been welcomed by Education Minister Simon Birmingham, who has repeatedly said the government needs to rein in the spiralling costs of higher education.

The government is considering changing repayment thresholds, as well as increased fees and cuts to university funding, as it looks for savings in the May budget.

Student debt is expected to balloon to $63 billion by 2019, up from $30 billion last year, with a fifth of all loans not expected to be repaid.
The trustees of the Presbyterian Church acted with "fundamental jurisdictional error" in removing the Scots College school council to save the job of principal Ian Lambert, a former NSW judge says.

In February, the Presbyterian Church removed the ruling council of the Bellevue Hill school over "governance concerns" after the council decided not to renew the contract of Dr Lambert. The newly installed management committee, stacked with senior church figures, subsequently renewed Dr Lambert's contract as "the first priority".

On Tuesday, letters will be sent to delegates around the state advising of an emergency meeting to settle the conflict that has divided the church.

In documents prepared for the former council and obtained by Fairfax Media, former NSW Court of Appeal judge Ken Handley, who retired in 2012, argues that the trustees of the Presbyterian Church did not have the power to intervene merely because they disagreed with the council's decision not to renew the headmaster's contract.
If ice-smoking carpenter-bricklayer Phillip Harrison has $596 million in the bank, that alone would make him the third richest Australian under 40. Never mind the extra billions he claimed to have had in property.

But is Mr Harrison, 29, really in a position to rival the youthful co-founders of the $8 billion software company Atlassian?

Phillip Harrison was charged with drug offences and granted bail in Brisbane. Credit:Facebook

Police first heard his brags after they pulled him over for alleged dangerous driving in an Audi sports car on the Sunshine Coast on Friday.
The newly appointed head of the Boundaries Commission says the state government's promise to finalise council mergers by the middle of the year creates a tight deadline but he is not foreseeing any setbacks.

Chairman Bob Sendt says the body, which will provide feedback on the proposals to amalgamate councils, has been promised access to whatever resources it requires.

Bob Sendt: "We haven't been given a deadline, we're independent." Credit:Jim Rice

"We haven't been given a deadline, we're independent," said Mr Sendt, who was NSW Auditor-General during the Carr administration.

"We understand the government is keen to get this wrapped up by the middle of the year. We'll do what we can to assist, but our priority will be to get the job done properly. Having said that, we're not anticipating any problems at this stage."
A man has been taken to hospital in a critical condition after a stand-off with police in Sydney's west overnight.

Police were called to a home in George Street in Canley Vale just before 8pm on Monday to reports of a stabbing.

It is understood that officers arrived a short time later to find a man bleeding heavily from serious stab wounds to his stomach and arms. The man was believed to have been affected by the drug ice at the time and his wounds were self-inflicted, according to witnesses.

A woman was also found in a flat at the back of the home suffering minor cuts.
The Fuqing nuclear power plant is under construction. [Photo / China Daily]

The Nuclear Security Summit 2016 comes at a high time, scheduled from March 31 to April 1 in Washington DC. This is the fourth summit of its kind, and aims to discuss security issues related to fissile material. Readers must be aware that the NSS has been quite successful in motivating participants to improve their internal security while removing highly enriched uranium from over 12 countries, and inciting a conversion to low energy uranium as well as comprehensive improvement in the security of buildings and storage of fissile material. This time, the NSS is supposed to focus on improving the coordination of the top five nuclear security administration bodies, namely, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), United Nations (U.N.), INTERPOL, Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism (GICNT), and Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction (Global Partnership). There's supposed to be action plans for each of these bodies.

There are talks of amendments in the guidance of nuclear security measures, as well as the strengthening of international frameworks. Interpol is supposed to formulate an action plan which will focus on enhancing and expanding existing training courses and exercises to prevent or act on nuclear or radiological incidents, and start an Operation Fail Safe initiative which is supposed to track nuclear smuggling.

U.S. President Obama and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping are supposed to meet on the sidelines of the NSS this year. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Li Baodong was quoted saying that North Korea, cyber security and the South China Sea will be definitely among some of the issues mentioned. President Xi is supposed to deliver a speech on China's domestic measures and new achievements in enhancing nuclear security, and raise a number of practical proposals on strengthening global nuclear security, Xinhua stated. These are the consistent positions of China. Last year, China also stated that there should be nuclear accountability, and even contribution from all parties concerned when it comes to boosting nuclear security across the globe. There have been new challenges in capacity building, which need to be addressed as well, and also the fact that member states should be held accountable, especially member states from countries which have traditional law enforcement and security problems. "China will work with parties concerned to make contributions to the construction of a fair, cooperative and win-win international nuclear security system and improve the levels of global nuclear security," said Li, quoted by Xinhua. The Chinese position on the Korean question has also been extremely consistent; China and the United States both agree on the need to denuclearize the Korean peninsula, and both understand the need to do it peacefully and through dialogues.

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A Kenyan woman has used her questionable photoshopping skills to insert herself into other people's holiday photos after she couldn't afford a trip overseas.

Sevelyn Gat inserted her blurry visage into photographs of some of China's major sightseeing destinations, and posted the rendered images on her Facebook page in February.

"I have left the country to China," Gat posted along with a photoshopped image of herself standing in front of a Kenyan Airways plane on the runway.

"Last day of visit. Bye China," she captioned a photograph of a group of travellers with her image tactlessly pasted over the top.
Police have charged a 27-year-old man with murder following the stabbing death of a man on a busy street in Melbourne's inner suburbs.

A 46-year-old man died after he was attacked while walking with a friend on Clarendon Street in South Melbourne about 11pm on March 18.

A man died after he was found with stab wounds to his neck near the corner of Clarendon and Bank streets in South Melbourne. Credit:Melissa Singer

The South Melbourne man was rushed to hospital after he was found by emergency services on the footpath with stab wounds to his neck but died on arrival.

A 27-year-old Gladstone Park man has been charged with one count of murder. He has been remanded to appear in Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.
A legal quirk that has kept scores of documents about police misconduct allegations secret will be challenged at the Victorian civil tribunal on Tuesday.

The case will centre on a Melbourne man, Jordan Brown.

Jordan Brown claims he was claims he was falsely arrested, manhandled and detained without charge by police after filming an anti-advertising protest in Melbourne's CBD.

Two years ago, Mr Brown lodged a complaint with Victoria Police about his alleged ill-treatment but has since been blocked from accessing documents relating to the case.

Mr Brown had been filming an anti-advertising protest in Melbourne's CBD when he was approached by a police officer, who demanded that he identify himself and hand over his camera.
A new poll for the Andrews government has found its "sky rail" plan  elevating rail tracks to remove level crossings in Melbourne's south-east  is supported by 82 per cent of residents.

But residents opposed to the plan, and the state opposition, have ridiculed the survey, in part because it was done via thousands of "robo-calls" to residents in some areas.

Researcher EY Sweeney was commissioned by the Level Crossing Removal Authority to conduct a survey of the community living or travelling along the Caulfield-Dandenong rail corridor.
Family violence workers know the pattern well. Media coverage of domestic violenceprecedes a sharp spike in calls for help.

Now support services are preparing for a barrage of calls on Wednesday, after the Royal Commission into Family Violence delivers its report.

The Safe Steps 24-hour helpline usually receives about 170 calls a day but that figure is expected to reach up to 300 on Wednesday.

Safe Steps chief executive Annette Gillespie said there would be more staff manning the phones and preparing for complex cases. "We're bracing for impact," she said.
The West Australian parliament will hold an inquiry into the number of Aboriginal youth suicides in the state after a 10-year-old Kimberley girl took her own life.

A public outcry followed the news of the child's death earlier this month, prompting calls for a royal commission and the announcement of a state coroner's inquest into several suspected suicides in the Pilbara and Kimberley regions.

The Education and Health Standing Committee of the Legislative Assembly has now resolved to conduct an inquiry into Aboriginal youth suicide rates. Credit:Max Mason Hubers MMH

The Education and Health Standing Committee of the Legislative Assembly has now resolved to conduct an inquiry into the issue in response to a motion moved by Kimberley MP Josie Farrer.

It resolved to see 'what more can be done to halt the worrying number of suicides among Aboriginal youth in Western Australia, particularly in remote communities, and to determine what resources have been set aside to tackle this crucial issue facing the State'.
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Tate Galler

Over the years, my experiences in London have been plentiful. In fact, even as a young boy (living in the industrial confines of North West England) a day trip to England's capital was always considered an exciting adventure. And yet, many years later, my inquisitiveness and affection, for this diverse, multicultural city has never waned. London's demographics have a diverse range of ethnic cultures. In addition to this, over 300 languages are spoken within its boundaries. Without doubt, the city holds a defining charm and allure that holds a boundless fascination in both young and old people alike.

Samuel Johnson, publisher of the first English dictionary (1755), once quoted: "Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford."

No matter what month or time of season you visit, there's always a multitude of things to do, see and experience. London is situated in South East England; its colorful history stretches back to its Roman founders around 2,000 years ago. The river Thames, England's second largest river, flows right through the heart of the city and divides its north and south banks. This immense channel of water, which has always played a major part in the city's welfare, is the main artery of many of its world famous attractions.

Of the many famous bridges that cross the Thames, the symbolic Tower Bridge has to be the most prominent. It's a suspension bridge in design, and was built in 1894; it's truly a national treasure of London. Close to the Tower Bridge stands the iconic Tower of London. It's over 900 years old, and through the years, has served as both a fortress and prison. The tower is steeped in bloody, medieval history, where kings and queens alike met their ghastly and gruesome deaths. The most famous is Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry the Eighth. Its colorful history of murderous plots and scheming rebellions reads like a best seller of a Who's done it' novel. Today, the priceless Royal Crown Jewels are still on show there.

For the more acquired and cultured among us, London offers a multitude of museums and art galleries, each one displaying an array of unique artifacts and priceless works of art. The Modern Tate gallery, situated on the south bank of the Thames, houses a marvelous collection of contemporary artwork. Of particular interest are the master works of Mark Rothko's surrealistic and mythological, abstract paintings. The Tate Gallery (situated in Trafalgar Square) houses substantial works of the famous Italian renaissance painter Caravaggio, Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh, and English romantic landscape painter William Turner.

If one appreciates the drama and excitement of theatre, then why not pay a visit to the legendary Globe theatre on the South Bank, where England's most renowned playwright, William Shakespeare, performed some of his most memorable plays such as Romeo & Juliet and Macbeth (the Scottish play).Of course, one can, if they wish, visit Theatreland in the West End, where a magnitude of West End and Broadway productions are shown nightly.

For a taste of pious serenity, why not visit one of London's famous cathedrals. St Paul's Cathedral, with its eye-catching Rotunda Dome, sits at the highest point of London, known as Ludgate Hill, and dates back to the late17th century. It was designed by England's most proficient architect, Sir Christopher Wren, after the rather infamous "Fire of London." The cathedral's crypt is the final resting place of some of England's noblest gentry, leaders, poets and inventors, including the Duke of Wellington and Admiral Lord Nelson.

One cannot visit London without visiting the Palace of Westminster (commonly known as the Houses of Parliament). It stands proudly on the northern side of the river, adjacent to Westminster Bridge. It is the centralized office of government for the United Kingdom. The adjoining tower (completed in 1858) features a famous face clock, which is better known as Big Ben. The clock is accurate to the second, and many Londoners actually set their own watches by it.

Whilst leisurely walking over Westminster Bridge to the South Bank, we arrive at the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe, the world famous London Eye! It was built in 1999 to commemorate the new Millennium, is one of London's most sought after attractions and offers some of the best scenic views in and around London.

After all this sightseeing, one can indulge in some serious window shopping! Looking for that famous brand name won't be a problem. Oxford Street in London's West End is Europe's busiest shopping street. It has over 300 hundred shops to keep even the most ardent shopper happy. And taking a short ride on London's underground to Kensington, you will find the famous Harrods and Burberry stores. Here you can shop with movie stars and royalty alike. Finally, at the end of the day, dining out in one of London's fashionable restaurants is a must. And for that truly oriental dining experience, why not visit London's charming Chinatown. Again, it's conveniently situated in the lively West End. I highly recommend it. Here, curious passersby stare into restaurant windows and drool at the food on offer: Peking-style roast duck, Cantonese barbecue, Shanghai dumplings, pork ribs and pork belly. No matter what your taste, you're sure to find it here.

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6. Trump is bad for Australia And now to Trump. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks in Washington. Credit:AP His elevation poses a question Australia has so far dared not ask itself aloud, what would a President Trump mean for the alliance? Peter Hartcher writes in the Sydney Morning Herald today it would be B.A.D for Australia and Asia. That's it for today, you can follow me on Facebook for more.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday March 26th 2016 at approximately 07.30 p.m. a unit from the Multi Disciplinary Team arrested two men for drug possession. This arrests took place in the Cape Bay area while the suspects were driving in a Hyundai Accent with license plate 3747-AAB. The suspects were driving in an area which is well known to police where narcotics are sold. The vehicle was stopped by the team and controlled for drugs. During the control a plastic bag containing an amount of marijuana and a plastic bag containing an amount cocaine was found and confiscated for further investigation. But suspects with initials D.R. (20) and W.G.C.B. (48) were arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report.
Twistlock Announces Accelerated Business Momentum, Expands Executive Team Amidst Multiple Industry Accolades

SAN FRANCISCO, CA  (Marketwired)  03/28/16  , the leading provider of virtual container security solutions, today announced that its business momentum heading into 2016 has surpassed the companys revenue goal for the first half of the year, delivering sales far above planned expectations. The company also announced the appointment of Gene Kim as a strategic advisor and Jacinta Tobin as Chief Revenue Officer.

Twistlocks Container Security Suite has experienced strong adoption since the company in November 2015. The product is now deployed at leading financial services, insurance, healthcare centers, as well as in highly secured military and defense environments.

This momentum has resulted in numerous prestigious industry acknowledgements; Twistlock has been named a CyberSecurity company to watch in 2016 by both Dark Reading and Momentum Partners. SC Magazine selected Twistlock as a finalist for the prestigious Best Emergent Technology Award. The company received Virtualization Reviews Editors Choice Award, and was named as one of CRNs Top 10 Coolest Security Startups of 2015.

Today, the company announced the appointment of Gene Kim, an award-winning CTO, researcher, and author, and a prominent authority in DevOps and security, as a strategic advisor. Kim was the co-founder and CTO of Tripwire, and co-authored The Phoenix Project: A Novel About IT, DevOps, and Helping Your Business Win and the upcoming DevOps Handbook. Kim will advise the company on its product direction, as well as serve as a sounding board for the companys overall strategies.

Driven by the need for increased agility, containers and DevOps are increasingly being used by large, complex organizations, across all industry verticals. There is the potential to not only increase productivity, but to also increase security and reliability, said Kim. Container security is a powerful enabler to build quality and security into how we develop and deploy software.

In addition, Twistlock announced the appointment of Jacinta Tobin as Chief Revenue Officer. Tobin comes to Twistlock with many years of experiences driving hyper-growth businesses. She is known for her customer-focused execution strategies, which have consistently delivered results to help Fortune 500 customers and large operators achieve technology visions and goals. Tobin will oversee sales, market expansion, and channel practices for the company.

Gene brings a unique blend of experiences in entrepreneurship, security innovations and DevOps thought leadership, said Ben Bernstein, CEO of Twistlock, Jacinta is one of the most successful high tech sales executives in the field. The addition of Gene and Jacinta comes at an important moment as we expand our market presence and the breadth of our offerings to customers. We look forward to working with them both and leverage their vast expertise to enable innovations and business success for our customers.

Bolstering the general availability of its Container Security Suite, Twistlock also . As part of these integrations, Twistlocks technologies are now easily available to help identify vulnerabilities, detect anomalies and enforce run-time policies for containers in and across both AWS and Google Cloud Platform.

Twistlocks Container Security Suite is the only dev-to-production security product on the market today. It has been adopted by more than 30 organizations, spanning financial services, health care, media, hospitality, consumer technology services and government agencies. Many of these customers have deployed Twistlock in both development and mission-critical production environments, protecting live services and valuable customer data in containers.

To learn more about Twistlock Container Security Suite, see .

To start a free trial for Twistlock Container Security, see .

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Twistlock is the industrys first enterprise security suite for container security. Twistlocks technologies addresses risks on the host and within containers, enabling enterprises to consistently enforce security policies, monitor and audit activity, and identify and isolate threats in the container environment. Twistlocks mission is to provide an enterprise-grade security stack for containers, enabling organizations to maximize the benefits of adopting containers. For more information, please visit

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The number of Chinese visitors to Vietnam soars by 65.9 percent year-on-year in the first three months of 2016, said the country's General Statistics Office (GSO) on Friday.

According to the statistics, visitors of 580,500 person-times from China arrived in Vietnam in January-March period, rising by 65.9 percent year-on-year.

According to a report posted on GSO's website on Friday, Vietnam is expected to receive over 2.459 million person-times of foreign visitors, up 19.9 percent year-on-year.

In March alone, the country is forecast to receive 820,500 person-times of foreign visitors, down 1.6 percent compared to the previous month and up 28.3 percent year-on-year.

During three-month period, over 1.986 million person-times of international tourists travel to Vietnam by air, up 16.8 percent year-on-year.

The numbers of those going to Vietnam by road and by sea are to reach 435,600 person-times and 37,000 person-times, respectively.

In the January-March period, Vietnam also sees increases in numbers of foreign visitors from such markets as South Korea (408,100 person-times, up 30.2 percent), China's Taiwan (122,700 person-times, up 15.2 percent), Russia (108,800 person-times, up 13.5 percent), and the United States (164,700 person-times, up 14.3 percent) among others, said GSO.

Earlier, Vietnam targeted to welcome some 8.5 million person-times of foreign tourists in 2016, up 6 percent year-on-year.
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New Zealand experiences boom in Chinese tourists

With higher levels of disposable income and a desire to explore further afield, Chinese tourists are coming to New Zealand in ever-increasing numbers. Beautiful scenery is part of the attraction, peace and quiet, and of course, Hobbiton!

It's the modern face of Chinese tourism - a honeymoon couple celebrate a 3-week trip to see New Zealand's best scenery.

But the final destination is Hobbiton, in the upper North Island, where scenes for the Hobbit movies were filmed.

Wether its Hobbiton or other traditional attractions, Chinese interest in New Zealand is at an all-time high. Visitors increased by 30% last year to almost a quarter of a million people, and similar gains are in store for this year.

''Obviously, with more people with more wealth, they are looking for travel. New Zealand offers such a great experience for Chinese visitors," said Kevin Bowler, CEO, Tourism New Zealand.

In addition to five-star hotels, casinos and upmarket shopping malls, Chinese visitors want to enjoy New Zealand's spectacular landscape.

The thermal wonderland of Rotorua has always been a must-see for busloads of Chinese tourists. But now there's a new generation of younger and more adventurous visitors who want to explore New Zealand's unique scenery as well as have fun.

Rolling down a hillside in Rotorua's Zorb is a popular attraction for young Chinese people with a sense of adventure.

Ivan Yuen is also keen to experience the outdoors - and escape from his stressful working life at Hong Kong airport.

"New Zealand is a very good place to have a rest," he said.

Last year's Chinese ban on the sale of low-cost shopping tours to countries like New Zealand means fewer groups, but instead there are more independent travellers of substantial means.

"They'll go back more satisfied, they'll spread more positive messages about New Zealand, so we see the changes as very very positive," Kevin said.

Nevertheless, there are some concerns about language difficulties and the lack of Chinese signs and Chinese food.

And the biggest worry is tourists being killed in traffic accidents. New Zealanders drive on the opposite side of the road to China, and some road trips don't have happy endings.

"New Zealand's a relatively safe place. There's not a lot of traffic, but at the same time it's important for inexperienced drivers to get some education," Kevin said.

And hopefully, most Chinese visitors will go home with only happy memories of the country which the locals call "God's Own".
Bigelow Aerospace's BEAM expandable module will enhance the living area of the International Space Station.



Bigelow Aerospace is designing a plug-in module to expand living space on the International Space Station. Larger expandable modules could someday become free-flying space stations themselves.

The Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) will be carried into orbit by SpaceXs Falcon 9 rocket, stowed in the cargo trunk of a Dragon capsule. A robot arm will dock BEAM to Node 3 of the International Space Station.

BEAM is 13 feet long (4 meters) and 10.5 feet in diameter (3.2 m). The module weighs 3,000 pounds (1,360 kilograms)

A larger inflatable module called BA 330 is being developed for use as a stand-alone space station. Larger than the International Space Station's existing Destiny habitation module, each BA 330 can house up to six astronauts. Bigelow plans a two-module outpost called Alpha Station which could be orbited after 2016.

The BA 330s internal volume is 11,654 cubic feet (330 cubic meters). The length is 45 feet (13.7 m) and its diameter is 22 feet (6.7 m)

Further in the future, inflatable modules could enhance the living volumes of deep-space stations, lunar bases or even Mars expeditions.

The inflatable space station concept dates to the 1960s. Kevlar, the material used for bullet-proof vests, inspired NASA to take another look at inflatable space modules in the 1990s. NASAs module, called Trans-Hab, never flew and was officially canceled in 2000.

FollowSPACE.com on Twitter @Spacedotcom. We're also on Facebook & Google+.

Photos: Bigelow's Inflatable Space Station Idea

Gallery: Private Space Stations of the Future Imagined

Robert Bigelow: Lessons, Visions, Realities (Video)
The "Star Wars" Death Star exploding over the surface of Endor would have rained down fiery fragments that would have meant certain death for anything still on the moon.

If you're a fan of the adorable Ewoks from the "Star Wars: Return of the Jedi" movie, you may want to sit down.

The "Star Wars" rebels may have destroyed the Death Star, but the sinister satellite still managed to destroy the rebel base  and the moon of Endor  in the end. The Ewoks wouldn't have survived the explosion, says one planetary scientist.

"The Ewoks are dead. All of them," said Dave Minton, a researcher at Purdue University. Minton, who studies impacts and planetary formation, is well versed in the mechanics of collisions in space and the damage they can do, and he set forth this bold claim in a white paper submitted to and published by Tech Insider. [10 Real Alien Worlds That Resemble 'Star Wars' Planets]

In the "Star Wars" film "Return of the Jedi," a Death Star under construction around the moon Endor is detonated over the surface. The result would have rained large chunks of material down on the moon.

"There's little doubt in my mind that a significant amount of the structure ended up on the surface of Endor, probably in a spectacular fashion," exoplanet hunter Stephen Kane told Space.com by email. Kane, who was not involved in the research, is an assistant professor of astronomy at San Francisco State University.

The end of the Ewoks

The Endor holocaust first exploded on the "Star Wars" fan site TheForce.net in 1997, when astrophysicist Curtis Saxton argued that both Endor and the Ewoks were doomed. But like most science fiction movies, details about the moon vary from scene to scene, making details difficult to nail down.

Responding to a call by Tech Insider, Minton used the hologram shown in the briefing scene of the movie to estimate the relative sizes of the moon and the Death Star. Using the diameter of Endor found on Wookieepedia (3,000 miles, or 4,900 kilometers), Minton calculated how large the destructive satellite was and how far it orbited from the moon. With rebels and storm troopers moving at relatively normal speeds, he assumed gravity pulled down on them about the same as it did on Earth and used this to determine the moon is only slightly more massive than Mars, though it boasts a smaller diameter. This means that the core of the moon is denser than iron, though less than uranium.

With the size of the Death Star firmly in hand, Minton sought to determine how quickly it spun. To keep one side permanently facing Endor, as the briefing scene shows, would require the moon to spin a little more than once every hour, making it what Minton called "an exceedingly fast rotator."

Kane explained that, from a physics perspective, such a rotation would never have allowed the moon to form. Physics, of course, has never really stopped movie makers.

"Since [director George] Lucas doesn't care that 'parsec' is a unit of distance, I suspect he doesn't give a damn about Newton's version of Kepler's third law," Kane said, taking a stab at Han Solo's boast that his ship  the Millennium Falcon  made the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs.

Nor would that rotation match the onscreen cinematics.

"The rebels wouldn't have finished tying their shoelaces before they had lost their chance to attack the imperial bunker during the day," Kane said.

With such an impossible rotation, Minton concluded that the Death Star was instead held aloft by anti-gravity technology, which, he said, is widely available in the "Star Wars" universe.

Minton also concluded that the relatively gentle explosion of the second Death Star when compared to the first would lead to limited vaporization of its material, and that the fragments would not get much of a boost in velocity from the explosion.

"More or less what happens after the destruction is that the entire mass of the Death Star simply falls onto the location of the shield generator," Minton said.

Using his own crater-simulation program, Minton determined that a ball of fragments from the Death Star would leave behind a crater almost 4 times larger than the Chixculub crater in Mexico associated with the extinction of the dinosaurs. Such an impact would obliterate the surface of Endor, with every body of water on the moon flash-heating into steam and every forest igniting in a global firestorm.

Using the simulation of the Death Star made during the rebels' briefing, a planetary scientist calculated exactly what the destruction of the satellite would have meant for life on Endor  and it isn't good. (Image credit: Tech Insider

Kane agreed with this assessment, noting that it would be far more humane for the Ewoks to suffer a quick death.

"Would any of the Ewoks have survived the holocaust resulting from the destruction of the Death Star? God, I hope not!" he said.

Surviving Ewoks would suffer from a slow death by starvation.

"Given that 'Return of the Jedi' portrays the Ewoks as cannibals  yes, cannibals  they may possibly survive a small period of time by eating a few captured imperials and then starting on each other until they're down to the last Ewok, surrounded by the bones of its comrades and the charred remains of its home world," Kane said.

"Not so cute now, eh?"

Follow Nola Taylor Redd on Twitter @NolaTRedd or Google+. Follow us at @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com.
An artist's illustration of a circumbinary system, in which planets orbit two stars. A recent study examined what happens to circumbinary planets when they have a highly elongated orbit

In "Star Wars," the planet Tatooine orbited twin stars. Now, a new study suggests that, in the real world, twin suns may act like Death Stars, either destroying worlds or hurling them into interstellar space.

This finding suggests that these destructive stellar pairs could be producing rogue planets that drift through the Milky Way unbound to any star, the authors of the new research said in a statement.

Although Earth's solar system has only one star (the sun), most stars like the sun are not solitary. Rather, they exist in binary systems  where two stars orbit each other  or in systems with even more stars living together. Just one-third of stars like the sun are single, while two-thirds are multiples. [How 2 'Tatooine' Planets Orbit Twin Stars (Infographic)]

The alien planet Kepler-16b has two suns just like the fictional planet Tatooine in the "Star Wars" universe, home of Luke and Anakin Skywalker. See how the planet's twin sun setup works in this Space.com infographic (Image credit: Karl Tate, Space.com)

Many scientists once doubted that circumbinary planets  worlds that orbit both the stars in a binary system  could exist. Those previous studies suggested that the gravity of two stars would pull the planets into unstable orbits, thus leading the system to fall apart quickly. However, in the past five years, astronomers have detected multiple circumbinary planets.

To learn more about the origins and fates of circumbinary planets, the authors of the new research carried out computer simulations to model binary systems consisting of a primary star much like the sun and a secondary star about one-tenth the size of the sun. The secondary star was separated from the primary one by a distance of 1 astronomical unit (AU), which is the average distance between the sun and the Earth.

The planets in these simulations were initially located 1 to 4 AU from the center of gravity between the two stars. The researchers also varied how oval-shaped or eccentric the orbits of the planets were.

In the simulations, as the researchers increased the planets' eccentricities (the degree to which the orbit is elongated, rather than circular), the planet's orbital instability also increased. The researchers found that about 80 percent of the time, circumbinary planets in unstable orbits were flung from binary systems  by far the most common fate for unstable planets.

"This process could be a possible source of free-floating planets within our galaxy," said study lead author Adam Sutherland, an undergraduate astrophysicist at the University of Chicago.

The other 20 percent or so of the unstable planets collided with one of their host stars, about two-thirds of the time with the secondary (smaller) star. Unstable planets only rarely survived 10,000 years of simulated time.

There are ways to determine if binary star systems once hosted planets, such as by looking for pollutants within the stars that could be the remains of matter that fell into them, Sutherland said. Astronomers have already detected single stars contaminated with heavy elements, suggesting that they may have chowed down on asteroids and bits of planets.

Furthermore, astronomers might have already detected a circumbinary planet whose host stars might have flung it far away from them. The alien planet HD 106906b, a gas giant 11 times more massive than Jupiter, orbits the star system HD 106906 at a distance of 650 AU.

"Scientists recently discovered HD 106906 is actually a binary system," Sutherland told Space.com. "This planet is farther away from its stars than anyone thinks planets can form, so it might have migrated to its current location due to the mechanism we focused on."

It remains uncertain how often circumbinary planets might fall into unstable orbits, Sutherland said. "There is a lot that remains uncertain about how planets form and migrate," he said.

In the future, Sutherland and his colleagues will model a greater variety of binary systems and planetary orbits. The scientists also would like to see if planet-scattering activity could recreate systems like HD 106906.

Sutherland and his adviser, Daniel Fabrycky, an assistant professor of astronomy and astrophysics at the University of Chicago, detailed their findings in the Feb. 10 issue of The Astrophysical Journal.

Follow Charles Q. Choi on Twitter @cqchoi. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com.
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The Russian government said Sunday that it supports legitimate authority in Syria, not Syrian President Bashar al-Assad personally.

"We are supporting not Assad (himself). Do not forget: he has not been the best friend of ours, but he has been the friend of West," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters.

"We have backed the maintenance of the legitimate government, of power, because we have understood that if the president leaves, the government will follow him, the executive authorities as well as the army will disintegrate," RIA Novosti news agency quoted Zakharova as saying.

She reiterated that Russian air forces were deployed to Syria to prevent collapse of the country and to fight with terrorism in the Middle East, not to support Assad in the civil war.

After conducting anti-terror airstrikes in Syria for over five months, Russian air forces started withdrawal of main forces on March 15 under the order of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the agreement of Assad.

Russia has been supporting the Assad administration in Syria, which led to disputes with the U.S. and its allies as they insisted Assad to step down.
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The Dutch Police on Sunday arrested a terror suspect in Rotterdam at the request of France, said the Dutch public prosecution services.

The 32-year-old man is suspected of involvement in the planning of a terrorist attack. The Dutch prosecution, police and the Special Intervention Service (DSI) of the Dutch intelligence agency jointly made the arrest and three more people were detained in the operation, said the statement.

The terror suspect is expected to be extradited to France soon. The Dutch prosecution did not give his identity.

Media in France said he could be a friend of Reda Kriket, the 34-year old arrested in the Paris suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt last Thursday. The arrest led to a police raid that night on an apartment in Argenteuil, where explosive TATP and a Kalashnikov rifle were found.

Kriket was previously found guilty in absentia by a Belgian court and sentenced to 10 years in prison for being part of a jihadist network. After his arrest and search warrants at his home in Argenteuil, the French authorities said the terror plot thwarted was in an "advanced stage" of planning.
04/03/2016 (09:01PM - 09:30PM) (Sunday) : Jerrod (Jerrod Carmichael) and Maxine (Amber Stevens West) clash over his parents' behavior after a Muslim couple moves in next door. The problem intensifies when his parents see their new neighbors receive a mysterious package and they become determined to investigate. Tiffany Haddish, David Alan Grier, Lil Rel Howery and Loretta Devine also star."CROWDED""NOTHING AS IT SEEMS"04/10/2016 (09:30PM - 10:00PM) (Sunday) : The family goes to the movies for Bob (Stacy Keach) and Alice's (Carlease Burke) anniversary, but the night goes awry when Mike (Patrick Warburton) and Martina (Carrie Preston) find a positive pregnancy test. Miranda Cosgrove and Mia Serafino also star."GAME OF SILENCE""PILOT"04/12/2016 (10:00PM - 11:00PM) (Tuesday) : Jackson Brooks (David Lyons) has it all - a gorgeous fiancee, a beautiful house and a red-hot legal career. However, when his childhood friends reappear one day seeking his help to avenge a 25-year-old wrong, his perfect life is turned upside down. With the news that their friend Boots (Derek Phillips) has been murdered, they are forced to confront a terrible secret from their past. Larenz Tate, Michael Raymond-James, Bre Blair, Claire van der Boom, Conor O'Farrell, Deidrie Henry and Demetrius Grosse also star."GAME OF SILENCE""BLOOD BROTHERS"04/14/2016 (10:00PM - 11:00PM) (Thursday) : Jackson (David Lyons) agrees to help Gil (Michael Raymond-James) and Shawn (Larenz Tate) with their revenge plan, but keeps it a secret from his fiancee, Marina (Claire van der Boom). Little does he know, Gil and Shawn are the subject of a homicide investigation, and Jackson's former enemies are now on his trail. Bre Blair, Conor O'Farrell, Deidrie Henry and Demetrius Grosse also star."CROWDED""BETTER MAN"04/17/2016 (09:30PM - 10:00PM) (Sunday) : When Mike (Patrick Warburton) stumbles across a Viagra pill, he and Martina (Carrie Preston) decide to takes it once for fun, but then become worried about going back to business as usual. Meanwhile, Stella (Mia Serafino) starts a YouTube channel but can't handle the mean comments, and Shea (Miranda Cosgrove) finds her own magic pill she can't give up. Stacy Keach and Carlease Burke also star.04/18/2016 (10:01PM - 11:00PM) (Monday) : JANE AND WELLER WORK WITH AN UNLIKELY ALLY TO TAKE DOWN AN INTERNATIONAL CRIMINALIn order to capture a dangerous international criminal, Jane (Jaimie Alexander) and Weller (Sullivan Stapleton) are forced to collaborate with the only person he will meet: their former target, Rich DotCom (guest star Ennis Esmer). Jane must decide whether to risk hurting Weller by executing a morally questionable order from Oscar (guest star Francois Arnaud). Also starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Rob Brown, Audrey Esparza, Ashley Johnson and Ukweli Roach.04/19/2016 (09:00PM - 10:00PM) (Tuesday) : AN UNUSUAL CASE TESTS DR. CHOI WHILE DR. MANNING TREATS A YOUNG BOY WITH A WRIST INJURY, BUT SUSPECTS DEEPER PROBLEMS EXIST - An erratic patient comes to the emergency department claiming that his heart is pounding inside his head and takes drastic measures to stop it, leaving Dr. Choi (Brian Tee) and Dr. Charles (Oliver Platt) to figure out the best course of action. Dr. Manning (Torrey DeVitto) works on a young boy with a broken wrist, but her suspicions abound when the facts don't add up, prompting her to report the situation to Goodwin (S. Epatha Merkerson) and Dr. Charles, who must make a serious decision. Dr. Rhodes (Colin Donnell) impresses Dr. Downey (guest star Gregg Henry) with his skills inside the operating room, but the pressure takes a toll. Elsewhere, Will (Nick Gehlfuss) receives news about the pending lawsuit, April (Yaya DaCosta) feels a spark in her social life and Sarah (Rachel DiPillo) tries to determine the cause of her recent anxiety. Marlyne Barrett also stars.04/19/2016 (10:00PM - 11:00PM) (Tuesday) : CASEY TRIES TO UTILIZE HIS POLITICAL INFLUENCE TO REMEDY A SITUATION AND OTIS UNCOVERS SOMETHING THAT HAS HIM FEARING FOR THE WORST - When a high school student becomes an innocent victim of a gang retribution incident, a very determined Lt. Casey (Jesse Spencer) tries all means necessary to resolve the issue. Severide (Taylor Kinney) lends a hand to Detective Holloway (guest star Jenny Mollen), who is working a dangerous undercover investigation, and watches over her 9-year-old son at the firehouse. Brett (Kara Killmer) and Jimmie (Steven R. McQueen) are called to aid a woman who takes a fond liking to Jimmy. Meanwhile, Otis (Yuri Sardarov) makes a surprising discovery that leaves him very concerned and Herrmann (David Eigenberg) goes toe-to-toe with Stella (guest star Miranda Rae Mayo) to claim bragging rights over who can best run a bar. Eamonn Walker, Monica Raymund, Joe Minoso and Christian Stolte also star. Jon Seda, LaRoyce Hawkins and Nick Gehlfuss also guest star.04/21/2016 (10:00PM - 11:00PM) (Thursday) : Gil (Michael Raymond-James) goes rogue and takes matters into his own hands during a surprise visit to an old guard from Quitman. Gil's rash decision causes Jackson (David Lyons) to question whether or not he can be a part of the revenge plan. Larenz Tate, Bre Blair, Claire van der Boom, Conor O'Farrell, Deidrie Henry and Demetrius Grosse also star.04/22/2016 (09:00PM - 10:00PM) (Friday) : A WESEN WITH A TERRIFYING APPETITE TERRORIZES PORTLAND - SHARON LEAL GUEST STARS - When a man is found dead with all of the bones in his body seemingly liquefied and removed, Nick (David Giuntoli) and Hank (Russell Hornsby) find themselves in the middle of a gruesome family arrangement. Meanwhile, Wu (Reggie Lee) deals with a crisis of his own and Hank reunites with his old flame, Zuri (guest star Sharon Leal). Silas Weir Mitchell, Sasha Roiz, Reggie Lee, Bree Turner and Claire Coffee also star.04/24/2016 (09:30PM - 10:00PM) (Sunday) : Stella (Mia Serafino) becomes a webcam girl, Shea (Miranda Cosgrove) gets a job at a fast-food restaurant and Ethan's (Clifford McGhee) crush on Shea increases when he works under her. Bob (Stacy Keach) and Alice (Carlease Burke) argue about end-of-life issues and who should pull the plug on whom. Patrick Warburton and Carrie Preston also star.




Thanks to Laetitia for the heads up.





ABC is doing something really right and very smart with talented writer, director and producer John Ridley through the deal they signed with him at ABC Studios. First, they gave him the greatest freedom to do exactly the series he wanted to. It became American Crime, one of the best, if not the best, network show on the air right now, low rated but impressive at every level. Against all odds, they even gave it a second season, which is even better than the first one by the way, a tour de force. And that is called keeping someone happy. Then, they challenged him with creating a detective drama, a genre ABC is not renowned for (at the notable exception of Castle, which is close to the end). But one he can be proud of. One that makes a difference. It is Presence. His next task? Developing a Marvel show. We still dont have a clue about the character hes writing for -some chatter say its Miss Marvel, ABC wont confirm- and readers, that is called squeezing someone dry. They paid a shitload of money to get him and they wont let it go to waste, obviously. And were all winners in this. Because like American Crime, Presence looks like something that requires all of our attention  and praise.
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The administration of Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is opposing the concept of innovation districts proposed by the finance committee of the Connecticut General Assembly, arguing the bill would only add to the states fiscal woes.

The first Senate bill introduced in 2016 legislative session, the proposed act would funnel provide $25 million in grants to newly designated innovation districts, along with the same amount to business accelerators throughout the state and $60 million as loans to startups.
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GREENWICH  Fourteen percent of Greenwich restaurants failed inspections in the latest round of examinations by the town Health Department in late 2015.

The failures included high-end restaurants serving $30 entrees, as well as chain restaurants offering burritos to go.

Improperly stored or handled food, faulty or nonexistent handwashing stations, flies, mildew and broken equipment were among the many reasons eateries were penalized by inspectors.

Were trying to prevent food-borne illnesses, and the purpose is to look at any issues that can cause food-borne illnesses, said Michael Long, director of environmental services for the town.

The Health Department gives a failing citation in one of two ways. On a 100-point scale, a score below 80 is a failure. Also, certain infractions pertaining to food temperature and handling are categorized as 4-point violations, and any single offense in those categories results in a failing mark. Restaurants that are cited for failures require immediate corrections, and some are required to go through a re-inspection.

In addition to restaurants, inspectors scrutinize the food operations at markets, health care facilities, clubs and schools. While Greenwich school cafeterias did well, one 4-point violation was revealed at the International School at Dundee.

Greenwich Time reviewed 159 health inspection reports from the last quarter of 2015, the last period available.

The results were as varied as the types of food available across Greenwich.

A Riverside branch of the Chipotle chain, which has been under scrutiny for e-coli and salmonella outbreaks, received two 4-point violations, including for a hot-food holding area not being at the proper temperature.

We generally have a very good track record with health departments around the country. Any time we have a health inspection that uncovers issues in one of our restaurants, we move quickly to be sure those issues are addressed, said spokesman Chris Arnold.

Le Fat Poodle, a trendy bistro in Old Greenwich, was hit with an 80 score, including two 4-point violations. A later re-inspection brought the score to 93.

Co-owner Anshu Vidyarthi said the restaurant makes every effort to meet all regulations, and the recent inspection was an anomaly.

We immediately try to correct them, thats our first order of business. Weve got consistently high marks in the past, Vidyarthi said. They were corrected immediately and they werent necessarily health issues.

One 4-point violation concerned the use of ice to keep food cold at one food station. The health inspector said extra refrigeration equipment was necessary. Vidyarthi noted there appeared to be miscommunication over a previous approval.

When we were first opening, when they did an inspection and gave us our permits, they were OK with that, using ice for a station, cooling on ice. They gave us prior approval, he said.

Another 4-point violation concerned a handwashing station that wasnt readily accessible. It was between shifts. The night shift hadnt been restocked yet. They did come between shifts; it was a matter of timing, Vidyarthi said. Sometimes it falls through the cracks when people arent paying attention to little details. Im 100 percent on top of every one of the health department inspections. Any little violation we might get we address immediately; it gets taken care of right away.

When the re-inspection took place, a worker was seen eating food on the prep line. We have since corrected that by having training sessions, the restaurateur said.

Other restaurants with low scores included the Valbella, El Charrito and Villa Nuova.

At Villa Nuova, in Cos Cob, manager Orlando Fernandes said, Weve gotten 90 and 95s before. We took care if it right away. Things happen. The restaurant received a 76-point score, including 4-point marks for food in a hand sink and food at the steam table below temperature, but the violations were corrected.

Messages left in the form of telephone calls and emails were not returned by the other restaurants.

At Greenwich public school cafeterias, scores were in the upper-90 range, though one 4-point violation was noted at the International School at Dundee, where a meat sauce was tested at 128 degrees, not the required 145.

It was at 10 oclock in the morning. The food hadnt been out in the danger zone, which is generally four hours. It was only an hour. We corrected that action right away, and it was not disruptive to service, said Food Service Director John Hopkins.

According to Hopkins, there are a number of safeguards in place at Greenwich school cafeterias besides the quarterly inspections by the town Health Department.

Well do site audits. We run through a list of items, always checking temperatures, that logs are being used properly. Well make sure storage is all clean, that things are being stored properly, Hopkins said. We do surprise inspections twice a week, well pick a school at random. We know what the schedule is, but the schools dont. We go in there just to ensure everyone is following standards. Its always good to have a second or third set of eyes looking at things.

Eating establishments that prepare and heat meals (as opposed to gas stations or coffee stands) are inspected four times a year by the town, at random times. Restaurants must have a qualified food operator working on the premises, someone who has received the necessary training on health code procedures. Eating establishments are required to supply a copy of the latest inspection on demand to anyone who requests it.

Long, from the Health Department, said there had been discussions about posting restaurant inspections online, as some nearby communities have done, but a number of administrative and software hurdles are still outstanding.

In a typical year, about 10 to 15 percent of the restaurants inspected receive a failing grade, he said.

Mark Moeller, a restaurant operations expert, said restaurants typically run afoul of health inspections for several common reasons.

Restaurants fall short in many ways. Sometimes its inexperience, not being properly trained. Sometimes its being understaffed when the inspector comes in for a visit. When youre short-staffed, it turns into carelessness  trying to be more efficient, trying to expedite time, said Moeller, who is based in Shelton and works with the New England Culinary Group, an industry support organization.

Mistakes can arise in the frantic world of the kitchen even with trained staff. Its not being done intentionally, definitely not maliciously. Its the best intentions, but doing things theyre not supposed to, Moeller said.

Management is responsible in the end. A lot of it is common sense and training. Its setting the expectations and managing it. And enforcing it, the restaurant consultant said.

It can be hard to tell which kitchens are well-managed simply by taking a seat and ordering a meal.

Ive known many restaurants that, on the surface, look tremendous. When you go into their kitchens, it can be a completely different experience, Moeller said.
 Flash

Russian assurance of curbing unauthorized entries into Finland and the signing of an understanding on combating illegal immigration have been seen in Finland as an indication of a new phase in Finnish-Russian relations.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin arrive to attend a news conference after their talks at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence outside Moscow, Russia, March 22, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

Announced during the meeting of Finnish President Sauli Niinisto and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week, the arrangement will limit the use of the two northernmost crossing points to Finnish, Russian and Belorussian citizens only during the next 180 days.

Over the winter, some 2,000 self-claimed refugees arrived in Finland via the two northern crossings. There are several more southernly crossings, but they were not affected by unauthorized entries.

Commenting on the results, Markku Kangaspuro, research director in the Aleksanteri Institute of the University of Helsinki, said to national broadcaster Yle that Russia was not acting out of "sheer good will" in helping Finland but out of view that "cooperation is needed."

Kangaspuro said that both countries now look for new ways of cooperation that take into account the vision that the European Union sanctions would remain for "a good time." He told Yle that the meeting and its results indicate the relations between Finland and Russia have warmed up from the coldest point.

Teija Tiilikainen, director of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, underlined that the basic problem associated with Russian actions in Ukraine is still there. "But under these circumstances, of course, it must be possible to discuss joint interests," she said.

President Niinisto told a press briefing after meeting with Putin that Finland is "not balancing between the sanctions and its own interests." "Finland acts in accordance to agreements concerning the sanctions, but in relation to Russia follows good neighborly manners," Niinisto said. Sanctions cannot be cancelled until the Minsk agreement has been implemented, he noted.

Newspaper Karjalainen, published in Joensuu, eastern Finland, wrote in an editorial that Niinisto has been able to accommodate being part of the EU front and at the same time meeting President Putin. Karjalainen noted that the promise to keep the border under tight control is valuable not only to Finland but to the whole EU.

Finnish commentators have noted, however, that it remains unclear why Russia last autumn gave up decades old policies and started allowing foreigners with no EU entry documents to cross the border into Finland and then some weeks ago returned to the old practice.
With an older sister who modelling career has soared since signing with IMG Models in 2011, Gigi Hadid's younger sister Bella would be forgiven for feeling second fiddle.

But the 19-year-old model has taken her sister's success as inspiration, and followed in her footsteps as she stepped up on Sunday night to accept the award for Model of the Year at The Daily Front Row's Fashion Awards.

Bella signed to IMG models in 2014 and made her New York Fashion Week debut in the September walking for the Desigual show.

She has since starred in Balmain's AW15 campaign alongside Gigi, and walked for the likes of Tom Ford, Diane von Furstenberg, Tommy Hilfiger, Jeremy Scott, Marc Jacobs, Topshop, Moschino, Bottega Veneta Miu Miu and Givenchy.

Bella Hadid - Style File 1 /38 Bella Hadid - Style File Getty Images AFP via Getty Images Dave Benett Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP REUTERS Getty Images Getty Images Getty Images Jason Merritt/Getty March 29, 2014 At Nickelodeon's 27th Annual Kids' Choice Awards in California Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty October 28, 2014 At the Sportmax AW14 collection launch Monica Schipper/Getty November 5, 2014 At the French Connection SS15 collection preview JP Yim/Getty February 12, 2015 At the Ralph Lauren Polo Mens and Womens show during New York Fashion Week Noam Galai/Getty February 15, 2015 At the DKNY show during New York Fashion Week Michael Loccisano/Getty February 17, 2015 At the Baja East runway show during MADE Fashion Week Mireya Acierto/Getty April 23, 2015 At the Calvin Klein launch of the #mycalvins Denim series John Sciulli/Getty May 4, 2015 At the Met Gala Larry Busacca/Getty May 21, 2015 At amfAR's 22nd Cinema Against AIDS Gala in Cannes Tristan Fewings/Getty June 1, 2015 At the 2015 CFDA Fashion Awards Larry Busacca/Getty June 7, 2015 At the 2015 Tony Awards Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty August 13, 2015 At a Samsung launch Ilya S. Savenok/Getty October 3, 2015 At the Vogue 95th Anniversary Party Pascal Le Segretain/Getty September 14, 2015 Walking the Jeremy Scott runway during SS16 at New York Fashion Week Frazer Harrison/Getty December 2, 2015 At a Chrome Hearts launch Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty January 26, 2016 Walking the Chanel SS16 Haute Couture runway at Paris Fashion Week February 15, 2016 At the 58th Annual Grammy music Awards Valerie Macon/AFP/Getty February 23, 2016 At The Elle Style Awards 2016 Anthony Harvey/Getty March 17, 2016 At the Joe's Jeans campaign launch John Sciulli/Getty March 20, 2016 At the Daily Front Row 'Fashion Los Angeles Awards' Frederick M. Brown/Getty

In December 2015 she made her Chanel debut walking in the brand's Metiers d'Art show in Rome.

But despite modelling seeming to come easily to Bella, her constant battle with Lyme disease since 2012 has left her facing a number of obstacles.

Speaking to ES Magazine in November last year, the model said revealed the extent of her symptoms. "This was my first full season. I was so exhausted."

"I only did 13 shows. Just request casting. The show girls do, like, 12 shows a day. I only did one or two shows a day and I was like: 'I need to go to sleep'."

But despite the illness - and if her most recent accolade is anything to go by - we'd say the future looks bright for this young Model of the Year.
B elgian police have released new CCTV footage of the so-called man in white walking through Brussels Airport, moments before two deadly blasts ripped through the building.

The short clip shows the individual wheeling a luggage trolley through the departures hall next to two men thought to have blown themselves up in Tuesdays terror attacks.

Police released the video footage as they stepped up their search for the third bomber seen wearing the light-coloured clothing and hat.

A man  named by Belgian media as Faycal Cheffou  who was suspected of being the man in white seen in the CCTV has been released due to a lack of evidence, it emerged today.

The Belgian federal prosecutors office said in a statement that a judge found there was no evidence to justify holding a man it referred to as Faycal C.

Prosecutors had reported earlier that Faycal C was facing preliminary charges of "involvement in a terrorist group, terrorist murder and attempted terrorist murder".

The number of people killed in last Tuesday's bombings at Brussels Airport and rush-hour metro has risen to 35, not including the three suicide bombers, officials said today.

Police say the man in the footage, who was wearing glasses and whose hat was pulled down over his face, brought the largest of the three suitcase bombs to Zaventem Airport but it failed to detonate.

The official police notice released with the footage said they were seeking to formally identify the man, who is suspected of running from the terminal after dumping his bomb.
A Leyton man has been jailed for more than a decade for his part in an elaborate drug supply operation that used fake ambulances to distribute class A substances across the UK.

Greti Parmargjeta was jailed for 11 years and 4 months for his part in the supply operation after being found guilty by a jury at Kingston Crown Court earlier this month.

He was caught in the middle of a drug deal following a National Crime Agency swoop that also saw three other members of the illegal operation jailed.

Two of the men had supplied drugs by posing as travelling salesmen, and were responsible for distributing millions of pounds worth of drugs to organised crime groups across the UK.

Norman McNestrie, aged 50, of Romany Drive, Consett, County Durham, and his right-hand man, Paul Robson, aged 54, of Broomfield Avenue, Newcastle upon Tyne, collected customers orders from bogus paramedics who used a fleet of fake ambulances to smuggle up to 1.6 billion worth of drugs into the UK.

In February 2015, NCA officers watched Robson hand over a holdall to 24-year-old Albanian national Artan Gejcaj.

Officers swooped and arrested both men and the holdall was found to contain 10 kilos of cocaine.

Permargjeta, aged 23, of Dunedin Road, Leyton, who is also an Albanian national, was caught after he was seen approaching Robson and Gejcaj.

Permargjeta turned and ran when he realised the men had been detained, but was caught by officers and found with small packets of cocaine in his pockets as well as false identity documents.

Three Dutch men were sentenced last year for their roles in supplying the drugs in the ambulances following a separate investigation by the National Crime Agency.

A dummy ambulance company was set up in the Netherlands for running the operation which involved the men using bogus patients to make their cover more authentic.

Police were able to establish that McNestrie and Robson had travelled to Essex and Suffolk at the same time as the fake ambulances had been there, and link the men to the fake paramedics.

They received 19 years and 3 months and 15 years respectively.

Gejcaj, who received 7 years and 2 months in prison, and Robson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs. McNestrie was found guilty at the beginning of March following a trial at Kingston Crown Court.

Oliver Higgins, National Crime Agency Branch Commander, said: Under the guise of professional travelling salesmen going about their business, McNestrie and Robson were responsible for supplying vast quantities of Class A drugs around the UK.

"They thought that the professional manner in which they operated  driving nice cars and wearing smart suits  would allow them to operate under the radar of law enforcement.

Having access to communications data enabled officers to link the activities of McNestrie and Robson, and that of Gejcaj and Permargjeta, to the fake Dutch ambulances and the substantial amount of drugs they had brought into the UK.

"We will continue to target the upper echelons of drug trafficking and hold those involved to account in order to protect the public.
A man was taken to hospital with facial injuries after he was violently assaulted in a suspected road rage attack.

Police and paramedics were called to Stamford Hill at about 1.20pm today after receiving reports that an assault had taken place.

The victim, a man in his 20s, had been punched in the face after getting into an altercation with another driver, police said.

The other motorist had fled the scene before officers arrived, while the victim was taken to an east London hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Officers from Hackney CID are investigating the incident.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: "Officers attended along with the London Ambulance Service and found a man, in his 20s suffering from facial injuries.

"Officers established that the victim had been in his vehicle prior to the assault and had got into an altercation with another driver.

"The altercation led to the victim being punched in the face by the other driver who then made off in his vehicle prior to police arrival."

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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China has condemned Sunday's deadly terrorist attack in Lahore, Pakistan.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hong Lei said on Monday that China is "greatly shocked by" and "condemned the brutal attack in the strongest possible terms."

He also expressed condolences for the victims and their families.

A suicide bomber hit a public park in Lahore on Sunday evening, killing at least 72 people as of Monday morning, including a large number of women and children, and injuring more than 300, according to Pakistani officials. A Pakistan Taliban splinter group reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack.

"We are standing together with Pakistani people at such a hard time. China will provide firm support for the Pakistani government and people to fight terrorism and maintain the country's stability and safety," Hong added.
P olice are hunting a 28-year-old man after a stabbing in west London which left another man with serious injuries.

Detectives in Ealing said they want to speak to Rafael De Jesus, from Feltham, after a man was stabbed in Portland Road, Southall at around 4am on Saturday.

He is described as having tattoos on his neck, arm and 13-08-06 inked on the inside of his left wrist.

The victim, a man in his 20s, was taken to a west London hospital where his condition is said to be serious but stable.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation should call Ealing CID on 07825 114094 or via 101. To remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
T he Government's anti-radicalisation strategy has been rejected outright by the National Union of Teachers (NUT) over concerns it is silencing conversation in the classroom and damaging community cohesion.

The union called on the Government to withdraw the Prevent strategy regarding schools, which since summer 2015, has obliged teachers to refer to police pupils they suspect of engaging in some sort of terrorist activity or radical behaviour.

The duty has been largely considered a failure by teaching leaders partly due to the fact that around 90 per cent of referrals end in no action being taken, with a catalogue of high-profile examples.

NUT executive member Alex Kenny, speaking at the union's annual conference in Brighton, said: "We want to keep children safe from those organisations who promote hatred and violence. But there are limits to what we can do, and Prevent is making that harder.

"Four thousand referrals in the last 18 months is not a sign that the strategy is working, it's a sign that the strategy is flawed."

In an appeal to Government, he said: "Listen to what we are saying, think about what we are saying, and stop what you are doing."

Members voted unanimously to ask the Government to develop an alternative strategy to safeguard children and identify risk, and develop resources for teachers discussing difficult or controversial subjects such as religion and terrorism.

They also called on the Government to conduct an urgent review of the Prevent strategy following an independent assessment from terrorism legislation expert David Anderson QC, who said the duty had become "a significant source of grievance among British Muslims, encouraging mistrust to spread and to fester".

Kevin Courtney, NUT deputy general secretary, said children who were discouraged or too frightened to speak publicly in the classroom were turning online where they were potentially at risk of being groomed.

He said: "The best contribution teachers can make is to encourage discussion in the classroom.

"But we worried that people are increasingly unwilling to talk about their view of the world - Muslim children in particular - because they are frightened or their parents are worried that their names will be put on some list."

Mr Courtney said concerns are so acute that a group of young Muslim girls at a state school in East London refused to discuss issues surrounding Charlie Hebdo in the fortnight after the Paris attacks over concerns their thoughts - none in support of the attacks, but possible opinions on the depiction of the Prophet Muhammad in cartoon form - would land them in trouble.

Other examples of young people erroneously referred to Prevent included a 17-year-old who had a Free Palestine leaflet in his possession, a four-year-old who misspelled "cucumber" as something resembling "cooker bomb", a 10-year-old Muslim boy mistakenly wrote he lived in a "terrorist house" rather than a "terraced house", and a 15-year-old student who clicked on the Ukip website to research attitudes to immigration.

Latest figures show, on average, two teachers call the Government hotline every school day over concerns a pupil may be becoming radicalised.

A Department of Education spokesman said: "It is highly disappointing to see the NUT taking this attitude toward the Prevent duty - which is held up across Europe as being one of the best programmes for identifying young people who could be at risk of radicalisation and extremism.

"There is no reason for the Prevent duty to stifle debate in schools. Debate is vital in helping children form balanced views and better understand issues. Schools provide a safe space for this debate and play a key role in helping young people develop critical thinking skills, which increases their resilience to a range of risks, including the risk of extremism."

Additional reporting by the Press Association.
F irefighters rescued 13 people - including five children - who became trapped after a raging fire broke out a restaurant in west London.

Crews raced to the scene after the restaurant in Hounslow High Street caught fire at 11.30pm on Sunday.

Some 72 firefighters battled the flames for more than four hours and used a ladder to rescue five adults and three children from the first and second floor flats above the restaurant.

A further five people  three adults and two children  were rescued from inside the building by crews wearing oxygen masks, London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.

Scene: Firefighters battling the fire at the restaurant in Hounslow High Street / London Fire Brigade

Paramedics assessed all 13 people for smoke inhalation. Ten other people escaped from the flats above the restaurant uninjured before fire crews arrived.

Station Manager Cathie Reeve, who was at the scene, said: Crews worked very hard in atrocious weather conditions at this incident.

"Four of the people we rescued had managed to get onto a flat roof at second floor level and as soon as we arrived our firefighters acted very quickly to pitch a ladder and bring them to safety.

Fire: The cause of the blaze is under investigation / London Fire Brigade

Nobody was seriously injured in the fire, which is under investigation, LFB said.

Ten fire engines from Heston, Feltham, Twickenham, Richmond, Hillingdon, Kingston and Southall fire stations attended.
P olice told today of a special Easter delivery on a street in north-west London after two constables helped a woman give birth to a baby boy.

Officers on routine patrol in Harrow were flagged down this afternoon by a van driver in Kenton Road at around 1.30pm.

Two police constables stopped to offer help and found the van passenger was a woman, who was in labour.

The baby was delivered into a Metropolitan Police fleece before an ambulance was called to take mother and baby to a hospital in north-west London.

Harrow MPS tweeted: A special Easter delivery, delivered by officers from Harrow police on Kenton Road this morning. Named Alex."
O ne of the main campaign groups lobbying for Britain to leave the EU has been accused of "hypocrisy", after it emerged it was employing migrant workers in call centres to contact referendum voters.

Leave.EU, which is backed by Ukip, states on its website that low-skilled European workers "can often deprive British citizens of jobs in the low-skilled end of the labour market".

However, The Guardian reports that the Leave.EU campaign employs four phone bank staff from EU countries including Slovakia.

Rudolph Svat, 36, came to the UK from Kosice in eastern Slovakia in September and landed a job with the leave campaign after working at a call centre in Prague.

He spoke to the Guardian when a reporter toured the call centre earlier this month, saying he supported Britain leaving the EU.

There will be bigger controls and borders but thats not a bad thing, he said.

I see people from my own country who come here and are not working and I think it is not correct.

He added that Brexit was a good thing for this country as I learn about the benefits of leaving the EU and how much is paid into the European Union.

Speaking to the Guardian, the campaigns co-founder and major donor, Arron Banks, denied there was any contradiction in an anti-EU campaign hiring a European call centre workers.

He said: My beef is not with immigration but with controlling immigration It cant be unlimited. I would argue you bring in the people you need to fulfil the economy," adding that it would be wrong to discriminate against applicants who were legally in the country at the moment.

However, the Remain campaign told the Guardian the Brexit campaign had shown double standards beyond parody.

Former Labour leader Neil Kinnock said: For Arron Banks to run a campaign based on division and demonisation while employing EU citizens in his call centre, is the height of hypocrisy.

Banks should hang his head in shame  and reflect on the fact that his own employees and other hardworking people do not deserve the stream of negativity directed at them by leave campaigners.
A kayaker at the centre of a major emergency search when his boat capsized in a fast flowing river jumped in the water to save his young son, it has been claimed.

Emergency services launched a large scale search of the River Wey in Guildford at 1.10pm on Monday after reports a boat had overturned in strong currents.

Witnesses said how the man was paddling with his son when they got into difficulty.

Tonight, fears are growing for the man's safety after claims he was "washed away" when he entered the water to save the boy, believed to be aged about 11 or 12, who managed to reach a bank.

Christopher Jackson wrote on a community Facebook page: "(I) heard (a) dad telling son how to paddle in passing...we could see the canoe was being dragged around like a bottle very fast."

Emergency search: Rescuers scour the River Wey in Guildford / PA

While Niamh Saul wrote: "No he hasn't been found...but the small boy was saved. God bless the father saving his son and he got washed away. Heartbreaking, thinking of his family and friends."

Siobhan Heaney posted: "Just spoke to the men searching. I found (out the) lad got into trouble. His dad went in after him. Got the (boy) out, but (the) man went under."

A police helicopter and search-and-rescue crews in red inflatable boats have been combing the river looking for the man, who has not been named.

Chief Inspector Dave Mason, of Surrey Police, said: "We have a large number of officers out looking for this man alongside a number of fire crews.

"The man was spotted in the water by several members of the public and was clearly in difficulty due to the extremely strong current.

"We are doing everything we can to try and find him. We are urging members of the public that if they do see him, not to try and go in after him but to call 999 straight away."
B oris Johnson has praised Vladimir Putin's "ruthless clarity" in providing military backing to President Assad to remove Isis from the ancient Syrian city of Palmyra.

The Mayor of London has said Britain should send top archaeologists to help restore the city - after Vladimir Putin exposed the West's "ineffective" response to the Syria crisis by helping liberate it from Islamic State.

The recapture by of the city, known to Syrians as the "Bride of the Desert", by Syrian government forces will be a significant blow to Islamic State.

The Russian president reportedly supplied troops on the ground to help remove Isis jihadists from the city, and Mr Johnson said Britain should now "make amends" by sending in archaeologists.

"If Putin's troops have helped winkle the maniacs from Palmyra, then (it pains me to admit) that is very much to the credit of the Russians," he wrote in his Daily Telegraph column.

"They have made the West look relatively ineffective; and so now is the time for us to make amends, and to play to our strengths.

"We have some of the greatest archaeological experts in the world. I hope that the Government will soon be funding them to go to Syria and help the work of restoration.

"It is far cheaper than bombing and more likely to lead to long-term tourism and economic prosperity.

"One day Syria's future will be glorious; but that will partly depend on the world's ability to enjoy its glorious past.

"British experts should and will be at the forefront of the project."

Experts are set to begin assessing the scale of the damage done to the 2,000-year-old ruins, with many famous monuments known to have been destroyed.
D onald Trump has said Britain and Europe are "not safe places" after terror attacks in Brussels and Paris.

The US Republican presidential front-runner said Europe had lots of very, very severe problems and added that he did not even think America was a safe place for Americans.

Mr Trump made the comments five days after the two explosions at Brussels Airport and a blast on the Metro, in which at least 31 people died.

Speaking to ABC, he said: I don't think Bruss - England or I don't think that Europe is a safe place. No, I don't. I think there are a lot of problems in Europe that are very, very severe.

Donald Trump's most controversial comments

"When you look at Brussels, when you look at the way they've handled things from law enforcement standpoints, when you look at Paris, when you look at so many other places, no, it's not [safe].

John Kerry, the US secretary of state, echoed Mr Trumps comment, telling CBSs Face The Nation that US citizens should avoid a crowded place if they were travelling Europe, because you have no control over who may be there.

In December Mr Trump sparked outrage after claiming some areas of London were so radicalised that the police are afraid for their own lives.

Mr Trumps latest comments came as Belgian officials completed their initial investigation at Brussels International Airport and found the main building to be stable.

Good Morning Britain: Donald Trump on how he will deal with terrorism

A statement published on the airport's website confirmed that technicians and independent experts had judged the main and connector buildings to be "intact".

The statement also disclosed that the locations where hand luggage and custom checks are carried out can also be used again.

Airport officials are now discussing plans to install temporary check-in desks, but pointed out that the process of identifying a suitable location was still being carried out in consultation with airlines and luggage handlers.

Additional reporting by agencies.
M alala Yousafzai has condemned the senseless killing of at least 70 people in a terrorist attack in Pakistan.

More than 300 people were injured after the blast  believed to have been carried out by a suicide bomber  near childrens rides at an Easter Sunday celebration in Lahore.

The country entered a three-day mourning period on Monday following the attack.

Nobel Prize winner Miss Yousafzai, who was born in Pakistan, said she was devastated by the senseless killing of innocent people in Lahore.

She said: My heart goes out to the victims and their families and friends.

I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms.

She called for Pakistan and the world to stand together adding: "Every life is precious and must be respected and protected.

A breakaway Pakistani faction of the Taliban claimed responsibility for the carnage and said it had deliberately targeted the Christian community.

However most of those killed were Muslims, with 14 having been identified as Christians, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal.

Prime Minister David Cameron, who used his Easter message to urge Britons of all faiths to stand up for Christian values, said he was shocked by the attack and promised British help.

He posted on Twitter: My thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims. We will do what we can to help.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: "My thoughts are with the victims and the family of the victims of the horrific attack in Lahore.

"Solidarity with the emergency services there."

Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond said British nationals were advised to avoid the area and monitor travel advice updates and local media.

He said: "My thoughts are with the victims and their families. The UK utterly condemns these senseless acts of violence.

"We will continue to provide support and assistance to the government of Pakistan as they work to defeat those who plan and perpetrate these acts of terror.

Additional reporting by Press Association.
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Monday, 28 March 2016 14:13:43 (GMT+3) | Shanghai

During the week ending March 28, steel plate prices in the Chinese domestic market have indicated upward movement. Transaction activity in the overall market has been at decent levels. Average steel plate prices in China are presented in the tables below.

During the given week, finished steel futures prices in China have increased, providing support for rises in spot prices of finished steel, including rebar, hot rolled coil and steel plate, while bullish sentiment has prevailed in the finished steel market. Meanwhile, inventory levels of steel plate are at relatively low levels, boosting prices of steel plate. It is thought that steel plate prices in the Chinese domestic market will likely move on a slight uptrend in the coming week.

Product Name Category City Steel Plant/Origin Price (RMB/mt) Price ($/mt) Weekly Change (RMB/mt) 8 mm common carbon medium plate Q235 Shanghai Xinyu Steel 2,810 432 0 Tianjin Tiangang Steel 2,760 424 60 Lecong Shaoguan Steel 2,940 452 70 Average price - 2,837 436 43 20 mm common carbon medium plate Q235 Shangai Magang 2,600 399 0 Tianjin Tiangang Steel 2,460 378 60 Lecong Shaoguan Steel 2,650 407 70 Average price - 2,570 395 43 30 mm common carbon medium plate Q235 Shanghai Magang 2,600 399 60 Tianjin Tiangang Steel 2,480 381 60 Average price - 2,540 390 0 20 mm low alloy medium plate Q345 Shanghai Magang 2,820 433 40 Tianjin Tiangang Steel 2,610 401 60 Average price - 2,715 417 10



Boiler and container plate prices in local Chinese market

Product Name Spec, Category City Steel Plant/Origin Price (RMB/mt) Price ($/mt) Weekly Change (RMB/mt) Boiler plate 20 mm 20G Shangai Xinyu Steel 2,700 415 100 Beijing Anyang 2,760 424 100 Guangzhou Liuzhou Steel 2,800 430 100 Ortalama - 2,753 423 33 Container plate 8 mm 16MnR Shangai Xinyu Steel 3,050 469 250 Guangzhou Jinan Steel 3,340 513 100 Ortalama - 3,195 491 75 20 mm 16MnR Shangai Xinyu Steel 2,800 430 100 Beijing Jinan Steel 2,760 424 10 Guangzhou Liuzhou Steel 2,900 445 150 Ortalama - 2,820 433 20

Shipbuilding plate prices in local Chinese market

Product Name Spec, City Category Place of Origin Price (RMB/mt) Price ($/mt) Weekly change (RMB/mt) Shipbuilding Plate 8 mm Shanghai CCSA/B Xinyu Steel 2,950 453 20 Jinan CCSA/B Jinan Steel 2,780 427 0 Guangzhou CCSA/B Shaoguan 2,850 438 30 Average - - 2,860 439 17 20 mm Shanghai CCSA/B Xinyu Steel 2,670 410 20 Jinan CCSA/B Jinan Steel 2,610 401 0 Guangzhou CCSA/B Shaoguan 2,700 415 30 Average - - 2,660 409 17

17 percent VAT is included in all prices and all prices are ex-warehouse.



$1 = RMB 6.51
Updated at 5:30 p.m. with Reuters contribution

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc. on Monday afternoon said it has increased its ownership stake in Wells Fargo & Co to 10 percent, a level that could mean increased federal scrutiny over the investment.

Berkshire owns 506.3 million shares of Wells Fargo, worth about $24.7 billion, mainly through subsidiaries, according to filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

The ownership stake has risen from 6.5 percent at the end of 2009 and 9.8 percent as of Dec. 31, according to Buffett.

San Francisco based-Wells Fargo is the parent company of Wells Fargo Advisors, which is based in St. Louis.

Berkshire has paid close to $13 billion for its Wells Fargo shares, based on Buffett's shareholder letters and the bank's recent stock price.

Wells Fargo is based in San Francisco, and is the third-largest U.S. bank by assets. A spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Federal Reserve exerts special oversight when investors take large stakes in banks.

In a September 2008 policy statement, the Fed said it often lets investors take double-digit bank stakes not designed to exert a "controlling influence," but would review any resulting business relationships "case-by-case."

The U.S. Treasury Department, meanwhile, has said it will not deem a 10 percent stake to result in "control" of a bank if the investor agrees in writing to limits on its involvement.

In one of Monday's filings, Buffett certified that Berkshire's Wells Fargo shares "were not acquired and are not held" with the intent of changing how the bank operates.

Speaking on CNBC television on Feb. 29, Buffett called Wells Fargo "a terrific operation" and said Chief Executive John Stumpf has done a "fabulous job."

Berkshire also owned a 15.6 percent stake in American Express Co as of Dec. 31. It managed to exceed the 10 percent in the 1990s when the Berkshire agreed to follow the credit-card lender's recommendations in voting company shares. Berkshire made a similar commitment to the Federal Reserve, according to the lender's proxy filing. It operates close to 90 businesses including the Geico insurer, the BNSF railroad, various utilities and Dairy Queen ice cream.

Wells Fargo shares closed down 20 cents at $48.70 in Monday trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
ST. LOUIS  The FBI says that an auction company in Union bilked another company out of hundreds of thousands of dollars in the sale of industrial machinery.

An arrest warrant was issued March 24 for Stuart B. Millner, 76, on a federal wire fraud charge, court records show.

"Obviously, we disagree with the facts and we have every reason to believe if need be, we can prove his innocence, said Millner's lawyer, James Martin, on Monday.

In an affidavit supporting the criminal complaint, FBI Special Agent Noah Pittman said that Millner's company, Stuart B. Millner and Associates, was supposed to be auctioning industrial machinery for a Michigan company.

The proceeds were supposed to be passed along, less a project management fee not to exceed $40,000. Millner's company was also able to receive a buyer's premium of up to 15 percent of the sale.

But Pittman claims that Millner's company held back money and lied to their client, understating the money made.

An August raid of the company by the FBI found records showing a $600,000 sale in 2014. Millner's company told their client that the item sold for only $450,000, Pittman wrote. An employee told the FBI that Millner told her to alter records to reflect the lower value, the affidavit says.

Millner's company has also only paid the Michigan company $250,000 of the more than $1 million that they've received selling items for that company, the affidavit says.

In August, agents also searched a car, and seized money in bank accounts and three vehicles, court records show.

Pittman's affidavit mentions a civil suit filed by the client two weeks before the FBI raid. Martin said that he believes that the criminal case began with that civil suit. "We think there are some significant misunderstandings that we hope we'll be given the opportunity to explain away, he said.

Martin also said that Millner is making arrangements to turn himself in.
ST. LOUIS  A Pine Lawn man who committed his first murder at 16 years old was charged Sunday with another killing in St. Louis.

George A. Burchfield, 37, of the 6200 block of Dowler Avenue, was charged Sunday in a deadly home invasion Aug. 21 that left Antwon Binion Sr., 36, dead.

Binion had been at home in the 300 block of Eichelberger Street with his son and another man. That third man answered a knock at the door about 3:30 a.m., according to police. That's when Burchfield and another man, Jerel Monteze Carroll, burst into the apartment, charges say.

Carroll was holding a handgun and Burchfield had a shotgun, according to one of the victims. Court papers say Carroll and Burchfield asked Binions son, Wheres it at? The public court documents dont explain what Carroll wanted.

A police summary says Binion's death came in a shootout with the suspects. They are also accused of pistol-whipping Binion's son. The son's age is given as 17 in court records but 19 in a police summary of the incident.

Authorities said suspected narcotics were found in the home.

Carroll was charged in September. Burchfield now faces the same charges: first-degree murder, first-degree robbery, two counts of first-degree assault, four counts of armed criminal action and a kidnapping count. The kidnapping charge is based on the allegation that Carroll and Burchfield for a time confined the man who opened the door to them.

Burchfield was ordered held without bail.

In 1996, a jury found Burchfield guilty of second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the Nov. 28, 1994, shooting death of Charles L. Johnson, 20, in the 4300 block of Vista Avenue. Burchfield was sentenced to 15 years for the crimes.

It was not immediately clear Monday when Burchfield was released from prison after that sentence.

He pleaded guilty in 2014 to charges of unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of marijuana. He was sentenced to four years in prison.

According to the Missouri Department of Corrections, Burchfield was first paroled for the 1996 murder conviction in February 2008, returned to prison for violations in 2009 and 2013, and was released on parole a fourth time in January 2015.
WASHINGTON  Federal spending in Missouri in 2014 was the equivalent of 22.8 percent of the states economy, tying it with Rhode Island for 18th nationally among the states.

Across the river, federal spending was equivalent of 15.1 percent of Illinois economy, ranking it 45th. Nationally, federal spending was about 19.1 percent of the gross domestic product in fiscal year 2014, continuing a several-decades trend of spending around that level.

The numbers are contained in a new Pew Charitable Trust report, one that shows that federal spending rose by about 25 percent in current-dollar terms between 2005 and 2014, spurred heavily by rising spending on retirement programs for aging baby boomers and their parents. Pews analysis shows that direct federal payments to individuals accounted for 62 percent of federal spending in fiscal year 2014, with about one-third of all spending going toward retirement benefits, mainly Social Security and federal pensions.

Congressional Republicans are pressing ahead with plans to try to balance the budget in 10 years. But federal spending, the debt and the deficit have largely been discussed only on the margins of the presidential campaign.

Democrats Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton have argued over whether Americans can afford new programs, like free college education, that the Vermont Sen. Sanders is pushing from the left.

Republicans have engaged in a familiar debate about tax cuts and shrinking the size of the federal government, but the latter discussion has largely left the biggest government programs, like Social Security, off the hit list.

The so-called third rail of federal spending  retirement and health care payments to the nations aging population  has remained too hot to touch, even as Americans overwhelmingly tell pollsters they want something done about the nations almost $19 trillion debt and its $544 billion 2016 deficit.

A mid-February poll by the nonpartisan Peter G. Peterson Foundation, which advocates for balanced budgets, said that 71 percent of 1,006 respondents said they want candidates to talk more about the national debt. More than nine in 10 Republicans said they want their candidates to make the debt one of their top three priorities, and more than seven of 10 Democrats said so. The polls margin of error was plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.

We havent really seen any debate on the debt and deficit during the current presidential campaign, said Howard Wall, director of the Hammond Institute for Free Enterprise at Lindenwood University, and a former vice president and regional economics adviser at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.

Why not?

Because they are trying to get elected, and what is necessary is to reform Social Security and Medicare, Wall said. And that is not really an electoral winner.

Wall and David Kimball, a political scientist at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, said that political pressure to address the deficit and debt has diminished, in part because deficits  while still historically high  have gone down since the annual red ink hit $1 trillion after the Great Recession.

Kimball said that the Democratic fiscal debate so far has been between idealism and pragmatism.

Clinton is saying that what Sanders is proposing  free college, for example, and single-payer health care  sounds great, but it will be very expensive to pay for, he said. On the (Republican) side, everyone is trying to outdo the next guy in terms of tax-cut plans and which federal agencies they are going to cut.

Key part of state economies

The Missouri and Illinois numbers illustrate how federal spending has different impacts even in neighboring states. But it is deeply embedded in both states economies.

According to Pew, which took over the federal spending analysis after the Census Bureau quit doing it in 2012, about 8.3 percent of Missouris overall gross domestic product in fiscal year 2014 came from federal retirement benefits. About 5.4 percent of Illinois did. About 5 percent of Illinois GDP was nonretirement federal benefits, primarily Medicare, while Missouris was 6.2 percent.

Illinois population is generally richer and younger than Missouris  hence the disparity of dependence on federal programs. The Census Bureau said that as of 2015, Missouris median household income was $47,464, compared with Illinois $57,166. In 2014, Census reported, 15.4 percent of Missourians were over 65, while 13.9 percent of Illinois residents were.

Defense spending may also have a bigger relative impact in Missouri than in Illinois, Wall said, pointing out that while Boeing is headquartered in Chicago, its St. Louis County plant that builds fighter jets for the Navy is counted as Missouri spending. He also said the impact of active-military personnel spending is higher in Missouri relative to the two states economies.

Citing federal statistics, Wall said Illinois has about 36,000 active duty personnel, Missouri 17,000. But Missouris state GDP of about $287 billion is about a third the size of Illinoiss at $765 billion, Wood said, so the relative defense impact is also higher in the Show-Me state.

The political realities in Illinois current budget crisis also play into the equation.

Illinois, as a blue state, has somewhat more generous social welfare and pension programs than Missouri does at the state level, so in some cases the feds end up picking up the slack in some of those anti-poverty programs, Kimball said. That is why the states in terms of (the most federal spending per-state GDP) are mostly southern states, because the federal government is having to come in and pick up some of the tab on their anti-poverty programs.

This ideological paradox is starkly evident in Pews data. Republicans tend to eschew federal involvement, but the most dependent states include some of the reddest in presidential elections. According to Pew, Mississippi , where federal spending in 2014 was the equivalent of a third of the states GDP, was number one. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells Kentucky was number 7; and staunchly red South Carolina, Arkansas and Idaho followed at 8, 11, and 12, respectively.

New York, Illinois, New Jersey and California  bluest of the blue states  were all in the lower 10 of states in dependency on federal spending.
JEFFERSON CITY  Democratic operative David Poger can return to the state Capitol after a case involving his alleged sexual harassment of interns was dismissed.

In February, the Legislature asked for and obtained a temporary restraining order against Poger barring him from entering or coming within 1,000 feet of the Capitol. The order came after three female interns reported feeling uncomfortable about compliments, invitations to lunch and what they considered inappropriate advances.

But the case was dismissed after officials could not locate Poger to serve him, said David Welch, House counsel.

Instead, Poger will have to inform Capitol Police 24 hours in advance if he plans to come to the Legislature and list who he plans to meet, Welch said.

He also will have to notify Capitol Police immediately after arriving and departing the Capitol. If Poger doesnt comply with the conditions, Welch said he could be arrested for trespassing.

We feel like we are accomplishing most of what we were doing with the (temporary restraining) order, and since we cant serve him this is the best way to proceed, Welch said.

He added that the conditions were spelled out in a letter provided to Pogers attorney, Gaylin Carver of Jefferson City.

Carver, who did not return messages seeking comment, told the Associated Press that those restrictions are not enforceable. She said Poger has been treated more harshly than former lawmakers who resigned last year over allegations of inappropriate behavior with interns.

The letter says Poger only can contact or communicate with interns under certain conditions, such as if Capitol Police and the interns supervisor or representative is informed 24 hours in advance or if he clearly identifies his name when speaking to an intern.

These restrictions expire Dec. 31, the letter states.

Robynn Kuhlmann, the University of Central Missouris state government internship coordinator, called the stipulations of Pogers return to the Capitol an excellent backup.

I would, of course, rather have had the initial attempt be successful in the first place, but this is a good alternative, Kuhlmann said.

The actions against Poger come after legislative leaders vowed to clean up the culture at the Capitol, bolstering their sexual harassment and intern policies as well as pushing ethics reform in the wake of intern-related scandals that led two lawmakers to resign.

Then in February, another lawmaker, former Republican Rep. Don Gosen, resigned and later admitted he had an extramarital affair with an adult who didnt work in the Capitol.

Partially in response to last years scandals, the Missouri House fast-tracked a package of ethics measures this year, but the bills have struggled to get through the Senate.

Rep. Kevin Engler, R-Farmington, said it sounded like steps were taken to make sure everyone was aware of Poger, adding that hopefully he wont be around the Capitol at all.

But if he is, everyone has the proper notice and ... theyll be watching him, said Engler, who was appointed by House Speaker Todd Richardson, R-Poplar Bluff, this summer to review the House intern policies.
The Supreme Court has rejected former Gov. Rod Blagojevich's appeal of his corruption convictions that included his attempt to sell the vacant Senate seat once occupied by President Barack Obama.

The justices on Monday let stand an appeals court ruling that found Blagojevich crossed the line when he sought money in exchange for naming someone to fill the seat.

A federal appeals court last year threw out five of his 18 convictions and Blagojevich was hoping the Supreme Court would consider tossing the rest.

His lawyers argued that the line between the legal and illegal trading of political favors has become blurred, potentially leaving politicians everywhere subject to prosecution.

Blagojevich, 59, was sentenced to 14 years in prison for misusing his powers as governor in an array of wrongdoing, most famously for his alleged attempts to sell the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Barack Obama after his 2008 election as president.

Blagojevich, incarcerated in a federal prison in suburban Denver since March 2012, is not scheduled to be released until May 2024, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons website.

In its decision last July, a three-judge panel of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals threw out five of Blagojevich's extortion convictions on technical grounds. If prosecutors opted not to retry Blagojevich on the dismissed counts, the court held that the former governor should be resentenced by U.S. District Judge James Zagel, who imposed the original prison term.

But that small legal victory was tempered by the court, which called the evidence against Blagojevich "overwhelming" and made it clear that Zagel's original sentence was not out of bounds.

Zagel, who has set no date to resentence Blagojevich, appeared to be waiting to see whether the Supreme Court would consider the appeal.
LAHORE, Pakistan  The death toll from a massive suicide bombing targeting Christians gathered on Easter in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore rose to 70 on Monday, underscoring the ability of the militants to stage large-scale attacks despite a months-long military offensive targeting their hideouts.

Meanwhile, in the capital of Islamabad, extremists protested for a second day outside Pakistan's Parliament and other key buildings in the city center. The demonstrators set cars on fire, demanding that the authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The army, which was deployed Sunday to contain the rioters, remained out on the streets around the Parliament and key buildings on Monday.

The Lahore bombing, which was claimed by a breakaway Taliban faction that has publicly supported the Islamic State group, took place in a park that was crowded with families, with many women and children among the victims. At least 300 people were wounded in the bombing.

Also Monday, Pakistan started observing a three-day mourning period that was declared after the Lahore attack.

Even though a breakaway Taliban group, known as Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, said it specifically targeted Pakistan's Christian community, most of those killed in Lahore were Muslims, who were also gathered in the park for the Sunday weekend holiday. The park is a popular spot in the heart of Lahore.

Of the dead, 14 have been identified as Christians, according to Lahore Police Superintendent Mohammed Iqbal. Another 12 bodies have not yet been identified, he said.

The attack underscored both the precarious position of Pakistan's minorities and the fact that the militants are still capable of staging wide-scale assaults despite a months-long military offensive targeting their hideouts and safe havens in remote tribal areas.

Ahsanullah Ahsan, a spokesman for the breakaway Taliban faction, told The Associated Press late Sunday that along with deliberately targeting Christians celebrating Easter, the attack also meant to protest Pakistan's military operation in the tribal regions. The same militant group also took responsibility for the twin bombings of a Christian Church in Lahore last year.

In Turkey, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the Lahore bombing, saying that in targeting a park filled with children, the attack "revealed the face of terror, which knows no limits and values."

France expressed its "solidarity in these difficult moments" to the authorities and the people of Pakistan and underlined "the inflexible will of our country to continue to battle terrorism everywhere."

In Islamabad, extremists had marched into the city on Sunday in protest of the hanging of policeman Mumtaz Qadri in February. Qadri was convicted for the 2011 murder of governor Salman Taseer, who was defending a Christian woman jailed on blasphemy charges. Taseer had also criticized Pakistan's harsh blasphemy laws and campaigned against them.

As the protesters reached an avenue leading to the Parliament, the march turned violent, with Qadri's supporters smashing windows and damaging bus stations. Police fired tear gas but could not subdue the crowds, which remained in the capital.

On Monday, they rallied anew, demanding that the Christian woman also be hanged and that authorities impose Islamic law or Sharia. The woman, Aasia Bibi, is still in jail facing blasphemy charges.

The army deployed Pakistan paramilitary Rangers as well as about 800 additional soldiers from neighboring Rawalpindi to Islamabad, to protect the center, which houses main government buildings and diplomatic missions.

In recent weeks, Pakistan's Islamist parties have been threatening widespread demonstration to protest what they say is Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's pro-Western stance. They have also denounced provincial draft legislation in Punjab outlawing violence against women.

Sharif had also this month recognized holidays celebrated by the country's minority religions, the Hindu festival of Holi and the Christian holiday of Easter.

In Lahore, dozens of families were bidding final farewell to their slain kin on Monday.

Shama Pervez, widowed mother of 11-year-old Sahil Pervez who died in the blast, was inconsolable during funeral prayers. Her son, a fifth grader at a local Catholic school, had pleaded with her to go to the park rather than stay home on Sunday, and she said she finally gave in.

Forensic experts sifted through the debris in the park on Monday. The suicide bomb had been a crude devise loaded with ball bearings, designed to rip through the bodies of its victims to cause maximum damage, said counter-terrorism official Rana Tufail. He identified the suicide bomber as Mohammed Yusuf, saying he was known as a militant recruiter.

Analyst and prominent author of books on militants in Pakistan, Zahid Hussain, said Sunday's violence was a coordinated show of strength by the country's religious extremists, angered over what they see as efforts to undermine their influence.

The military launched an all-out offensive against militants in the North Waziristan tribal region bordering Afghanistan in June 2014. The operation, called Zarb-e-Azb, has seen over 3,000 militants killed, according to the army. In December 2014 , the Taliban retaliated with one of the worst terror assaults in Pakistan, attacking a school in northwestern city of Peshawar and killing 150 people, mainly children.

Hussain said the government has been sending mixed signals to Islamic extremists  on the one hand allowing banned radical groups to operate unhindered under new names and radical leaders to openly give inciting speeches, while on the other hanging convicts like Qadri and promising to tackle honor killings and attacks against women.

"It is one step forward and two steps backward," says Hussain. "The political leadership has to assert itself and say 'no' to extremism once and for all."

Army chief Gen. Raheel Sharif promised Pakistan "will never allow these savage non-humans to over run our life and liberty."

Prime Minister Sharif, meanwhile, cancelled a planned trip to Great Britain on Monday and held a high-level security meeting.

In Pakistan's largest city, Karachi, the Press Club was ransacked by pro-Qadri supporters on Sunday. Several Pakistani journalists were roughed up and some equipment was damaged.

On Monday, extremists were regrouping in Karachi ahead of rallies in the country's financial center.

___
WASHINGTON  Capitol Police shot a man on Monday after he pulled a weapon at a U.S. Capitol checkpoint. The suspect was taken to a local hospital and a female bystander sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The U.S. Capitol was on lockdown for about an hour and the White House also was briefly locked down. As Washington teemed with spring tourists in town to view the cherry blossoms, staff members and visitors to the Capitol were rushed into offices and told to shelter in place.

The suspect was known to officers, Capitol Chief of Police Matthew R. Verderosa told reporters. However, he would not confirm reports that it was the same man who disrupted the House chamber last fall by shouting.

That man, Larry Dawson, was issued a "stay away order" by D.C. Superior Court in October, ordering him to keep away from the Capitol grounds, court documents show.

The event unfolded with Congress on recess and lawmakers back in their districts.

"We do believe this is an act of a single person who has frequented the Capitol grounds before and there is no reason to believe that this is anything more than a criminal act," Verderosa said. Initial reports said a police officer was injured but they proved erroneous.

Capitol office buildings and the Capitol itself were re-opened for business about an hour after the initial reports of gunfire. The Visitors Center where the shooting occurred remained closed as the incident was being investigated.

Visitors were being turned away from the Capitol as emergency vehicles flooded the street and the plaza on the building's eastern side. Police, some carrying long guns, cordoned off the streets immediately around the building, which were thick with tourists.

Cathryn Leff of Temecula, California, in town to lobby with the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, said she was going through security at the main entrance to the Capitol Visitors Center when police told people to leave immediately.

Outside, on the plaza just to the east of the Capitol, other officers told those there to "get down behind this wall," she said. "I heard what sounded like two shots off to my left." After a while, police told her and others to keep running. "I felt like I was in a movie. It didn't feel real at all."

Amanda Smith of Columbus, Ohio, said she and her family were touring the Capitol and were in the Senate visitors' gallery when she heard police officers' radios start talking about shots being fired.

"Sure, we were worried," she said. "But there were lots of kids around so we didn't make too big a deal of it."

Smith was visiting with her husband, William, and children Ian, 9, and Evan, 4.

From back home in their districts, many lawmakers got in touch with staff to ensure all were safe, and posted thanks on Twitter as it appeared they were.

Earlier in the day, officials conducted an unrelated shelter-in-place drill at the Capitol.
The Albany Road and Wellesbourne Grove Community Group are among those who will be hosting a street party to mark the Queen's 90th birthday celebrations. Photo: Mark Williamson (A28/3/16/6)

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON is set to be a sea of Union Flags and bunting this summer after the Town Trust provided 10,000 to various groups and individuals to celebrate the Queens 90th birthday.

Late last year, grants of up to 400 were made available to pay for, or go towards, the costs of a street or tea party.

Almost 50 applications for a share of the money were received, with a value of just under 18,000, and the successful applicants were informed last week.

Among the 34 to receive grants are the Jubilee Club, awarded 400 to hold the first event at Bishopton Community Centre in April.

The Alveston Villagers Association was granted 400 for a party on The Green in June, while Shottery U3A was awarded 300 to celebrate at the Methodist Community Centre. Other organisations to win grants for celebrations are Heart of England Mencap, The Shakespeare Hospice, Springfield Mind, Escape Arts and the Friends of Rowley Fields.

The Queens 90th birthday will be officially marked across the world between 10th and 12th June. Parties supported by Stratford Town Trust run between April and the end of June. Sue Short is one of a group of residents of Albany Road and Wellesbourne Grove who are also set to benefit from the grant money.

Sue said: We are delighted to have received this grant, we would have held a party regardless of whether we received it or not, but it will certainly help us.

We enjoy just getting together and planning everything at the Lifeways Centre as well. We are making bunting and also a patchwork quilt that we will hopefully auction off for charity on the day.

The Friends of Rowley Fields will also receive a proportion of the money to help fund its celebration on 12th June, which is free to everyone.

Last year the Town Trust, which owns Rowley Fields, had been planning to sell the green space for housing development, a move opposed by the Friends of Rowley Fields group.

The Trust dropped the plan later in the year and both groups are now working together to promote the area as a valuable community space.

Tim Bailey, from Friends of Rowley Fields, said: We have had an interesting time with the Town Trust over the last 18 months.

We are now trying to work in partnership with them, and the award of this money is a very positive step. Im very glad they are working with us and helping by supporting this event.
Bill Ackman's Pershing Square updated investors on Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) in its annual report to holders. In it, Ackman said while analysts and some media reports argue the recent 10-K FTC disclosure means Herbalife is on the brink of a favourable settlement with regulators, which caused the companys stock price to rise, they believe the facts will prove otherwise. They do not believe the FTC will deliver a "slap on the wrist".

He said if the FTC were to let Herbalife off the hook, which they view as unlikely, then all pyramid schemes will be allowed to flourish nationwide and globally.

From the report:

Recent developments continue to confirm that Herbalife is a pyramid scheme. Recently, an internal HLF video of CEO Michael Johnson surfaced in which he admits to the critical importance of recruiting to the business model. We believe that the video provides useful additional evidence to regulators of the recruiting-driven nature of HLFs business model.

Despite a recent press report to the contrary, regulatory investigations are continuing, as evidenced by HLFs consistent disclosure about a Department of Justice investigation and requests for certain information addressed to HLFs distributors, management, and others. Over the last three years, HLF has spent ~$109 million defending itself and responding to government inquiries, yet it still refuses to collect retail sales data which, if they existed, could help the companys defense.

In its 10K, filed February 25th 2016, Herbalife added a new disclosure about the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC):

The Company is currently in discussions with the FTC regarding a potential resolution of these matters. The possible range of outcomes include the filing by the FTC of a contested civil complaint, further discussions leading to a settlement which could include a monetary payment and other relief or the closure of these matters without action. The Company is cooperating with the investigation and at this time it is difficult to predict the timing, and the likely outcome, of these matters. Moreover, no assurances can be given that the outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse impact on the Companys business operations, its financial condition or its results of operations. At the present time, the Company is unable to estimate a range of potential loss, if any, relating to these matters. (Source: Form 10-K, pg. 100)

While analysts and some media reports argue the above disclosure means Herbalife is on the brink of a favourable settlement with regulators, which caused the companys stock price to rise, we believe the facts will prove otherwise. Herbalife has settled with regulators and litigants many times in its history. Despite these regulatory actions and settlements, HLFs business model has only gotten more aggressive in incentivizing its distributors to recruit at the expense of retail sales, and its distributor failure rate remains constant.

We do not believe the FTC will deliver a slap on the wrist in light of the enormous harm Herbalife inflicts on its victims, which will continue if it is not forced to stop its pyramidal practices. HLFs high profile over the last three years will subject the FTCs resolution of the Herbalife investigation to a high degree of public scrutiny. If the FTC were to let Herbalife off the hook  an unlikely event in our view  then all pyramid schemes will be allowed to flourish nationwide and globally. Without the inventory loading that is inspired by the incentives of Herbalifes marketing plan and the deception used to induce unwitting novice entrepreneurs to pursue the so-called business opportunity, we believe the companys business fundamentals will collapse.

In 2015, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission began proceedings against another multi-level marketer (MLM) called Vemma. The complaint and preliminary injunction against Vemma provide a potential roadmap for FTC action against Herbalife. We believe that Herbalife would not survive if a court applied the same restrictions on HLF which were imposed upon Vemma. Pershing Square has published a detailed side-by-side comparison on our website  www.FactsAboutHerbalife.com  showing that Vemma and Herbalife share strikingly similar business policies and practices.

On another front, New York Senator Jeff Klein, in conjunction with Public Advocate Letitia James and a non-profit organization called Make The Road New York, released a highly critical report on Herbalife, concluding that its distributors are running an illegal pyramid scheme. Senator Klein has proposed New York State legislation that would amend the New York State General Business Law to protect consumers from the abusive practices of Herbalife and similar MLMs.

From a financial perspective, HLFs operating results in 2015 deteriorated. Reported revenue declined 9.9% in 2015 as low-single-digit organic growth met with substantial FX headwinds. China was  and continues to be  the bright spot in Herbalifes financial performance, growing 29.8% organically in 2015. Excluding China, local currency net sales declined 1.3% in 2015. Herbalife reported somewhat improved performance in Q4 (posting positive ~6% currency-adjusted revenue growth ex-China) as the business appeared to have stabilized in certain markets.

Management has guided to mid-single-digit 2016 constant currency revenue growth and currency neutral EPS growth of -3% to +6%. HLFs 2016 EPS guidance of $4.05 - $4.50 implies realized EPS growth of -19% to -10%.

HLF continues to point to changes to the business model as the reason for a temporary reset, but we note that member trends continue to be negative. Slowing growth in new Sales Leaders continues to weigh on Herbalifes ability to recruit new members, and constant churn has caused the total member base to flat-line. The pyramid is no longer growing.

Recently, HLF was forced to restate downward a business metric that it calls Active New Members, which it claims shows engagement by distributors. The company introduced this metric on its Q2 2015 earnings call  in conjunction with deterioration in overall recruitment  but has never defined what the term Active New Members means or how it is calculated, nor how or when members become inactive. HLF explained the recent restatement by saying that Active New Members is a non-GAAP measure that does not appear in its financial statements. While the company is now making light of the importance of this measure, it previously has trumpeted the increases in this metric as an indication of future growth potential. Irrespective of the revised Active New Member disclosure, the number of total new members recruited each quarter has been on a downtrend, declining ~20% from 599,012 in Q1 2014 to 485,142 in Q4 2015. Pyramid schemes, like Ponzi schemes, require new recruits to replace exiting victims. For the first time in many years, Herbalife is having trouble replacing failed distributors with new recruits. The treadmill now appears to be moving faster than the runner.

Despite weak operating performance, robust multiple expansion yielded a total return of 42% for HLF shares in 2015 after a 52% decline in 2014. At its current stock price (in the low-$60s) HLF stock trades at 15 times 2016 earnings guidance. We believe that this price assigns little to no downside for an adverse regulatory outcome, nor is it justified by a business of HLFs poor quality. As a result, we believe that HLF currently represents an extremely attractive risk-reward for short sellers.
By Svea Herbst-Bayliss

BOSTON (Reuters) - Luxor Capital, a $3.8 billion hedge fund that has been losing money for months, said on Monday it will not be returning exiting investors cash in full, keeping a portion locked up until some illiquid investments can be sold.

Instead of returning all exiting clients' assets in cash, investors will receive 88 percent of their money back while 12 percent of the investments will be held in a so-called special purpose vehicle, Luxor's founder, Christian Leone, wrote in a letter seen by Reuters.

The announcement comes before a critical March 31 redemption deadline and aims to treat all investors "fairly," the letter said.

"For those investors in the Fund that have submitted withdrawal requests for March 31, 2016 and for subsequent withdrawal dates, we will transfer a pro rata share of the applicable assets into a special purpose vehicle (SPV)," Leone wrote.

Only clients who asked to get their money out on April 1 and July 1 will see a portion of their money put into the SPV and the fund will not charge any fees on these assets.

Special purpose vehicles and side pockets are permitted at hedge funds but they are often viewed as a last resort that sour investors, and they have not been widely used since the 2008 financial crisis when many hedge funds posted heavy losses.

But consultants have said that if illiquid positions become large, then it is prudent to segregate them and not charge fees until gains are realized.

After sending the letter, Leone held a brief conference call with investors where he identified the four illiquid securities being put into the special purpose vehicle. Together they make up 12 percent of the portfolio, he said.

They include food delivery service Delivery Hero, which Leone said makes up more than half of the exposure and has seen a "multifold appreciation since we initially made the investment." Additionally private equity investments in online food ordering service Foodpanda and drilling company Ascent Resources are in the SPV as well as preferred stock of Altisource Asset Management.

Leone told investors that clients have redeemed roughly 10 percent of their money in the first quarter and that redemptions requests are expected to be similar in the second quarter.

Last year, the fund saw investors redeem roughly 8 percent of their money from Luxor, a number that is roughly in line with what investors have done every year.

Luxor had been a popular fund in the hedge fund industry, gaining recommendations from such influential industry consultants as Cliffwater LLC, which advises on $56 billion in alternative assets invested by public and private pension funds as well as endowments and other big investors.

But in 2015 it lost 19.2 percent when the average fund lost about 1 percent and it started 2016 with a 5.2 percent loss in January. This unnerved some clients, including Rhode Island's state pension fund, which gave Luxor $50 million to invest in 2014, to exit. Last week its investment committee voted to pull its money out at the end of June and the fund told Reuters that it expected to receive $35 million back.

Luxor did not say when it expects to return the rest, saying only "We will continue to actively manage the assets held by the SPV until we can liquidate them in an orderly manner."

(Reporting by Svea Herbst-Bayliss; Editing by Tom Brown and Bernard Orr)
BENTONVILLE, Ark., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- When demand was exceeding supply, Joe Conway, owner of Arkansas Sign and Banner, took it as a sign that something had to change. Thanks in part to a loan from Bank of Gravett that was funded by an Economic Development Program (EDP) advance from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), and an accompanying $19,369 EDPPlus grant, Arkansas Sign and Banner is expanding. The loan assisted in the purchase of a 60-foot boom truck. The grant funds were used for acquiring equipment, hiring an additional staff member to maintain and operate the vehicle, and marketing efforts.

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-District 3), Arkansas State Representative Jim Dotson (District 93), Bentonville Mayor Bob McCaslin, and Kathryn Gough, field representative for U.S. Senator John Boozman, joined representatives from Bank of Gravett and FHLB Dallas today at an event celebrating the grant to the small business. Congressman Womack says the EDPPlus grant not only impacts Arkansas Sign and Banner, but the economic landscape of northwest Arkansas, as well.

"Great things happen when institutions work together toward a common goal, and Arkansas Sign and Banner is undoubtedly deserving," said Congressman Womack. "Thanks to the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and Bank of Gravett, grant programs like the Economic Development ProgramPlus exist and serve as a catalyst for businesses across northwest Arkansas to expand and contribute to our region's economy."

Representative Dotson expressed his gratitude for programs such as the EDP for helping bring growth to the area.

"I'd like to extend my congratulations to Joe and Cindy Conway on the success of their business," said Representative Dotson. "I am thankful for programs, such as the EDP and EDPPlus grant, as they support small businesses and the local economy."

According to Mr. Conway, Arkansas Sign and Banner, which has been in business almost eight years, started off as a sign company with one vehicle. Now five vehicles strong, the growing sign and banner company can cover more ground in northwest Arkansas, a stark change from when the business first started in 2008.

"When the recession first hit, business slowed down. We had to fight like everyone else to stay in business," reflected Mr. Conway.

As many businesses during that time, Mr. Conway and his wife, Cindy, who co-owns Arkansas Sign and Banner, had to set their business apart from competitors.

"We knew the bad times weren't going to last forever," said Mr. Conway. "We just made sure that we always got the job done on time and delivered the best work possible. I don't know anyone who out-works us."

Bank of Gravett Market President and Chief Lending Officer James L. Smith, who introduced the EDP advance and grant program to Mr. and Mrs. Conway, can attest to their work ethic.

"Attention to detail and a quality finished product is important to owners, Joe and Cindy," he said.

Although Bentonville is a small town, it is unique in that it is home to global retailers such as Walmart, and the Tyson Foods headquarters is located in nearby Springdale. "Having competent and professional services like Arkansas Sign and Banner in our city allows this community to meet the high standards required by large, sophisticated corporations," said Mr. Smith.

Noncompetitive EDPPlus grants are awarded in conjunction with EDP advances through FHLB Dallas members, like Bank of Gravett. The grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis to promote and enhance small business development and job creation. The purchase of a service vehicle will create one job and potentially more in the future, as it will allow the business to operate more efficiently and eventually expand the business.

Mr. Smith, who worked directly with Mr. and Mrs. Conway during the grant application process, believes that the expansion of Arkansas Sign and Banner will positively impact the local economy, thanks in part to the EDPPlus grant program. "Bank of Gravett is benefited by a stronger economic base that is assisted by the EDPPlus grant program. As a community bank, we strive to create customized approaches and solutions that work for local business owners like Mr. and Mrs. Conway."

In 2015, FHLB Dallas made $1 million available for EDPPlus grants, assisting 50 small businesses in the Bank's five-state District of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas. FHLB Dallas has made another $1 million in EDPPlus funding available this year.

Gustavo Molina, SVP and chief banking operations officer at FHLB Dallas, said the EDP advance and grant program promote economic development activities, positively impacting the community.

"EDPPlus was created for businesses like Arkansas Sign and Banner," said Mr. Molina. "It is our honor to partner with Bank of Gravett in helping this business prosper and continue stimulating the local economy."

About Bank of GravettBank of Gravett is committed to providing customers with exceptional service and helping customers find solutions to all their financial needs. Offering a wide range of financing options, including adjustable rate mortgages, Bank of Gravett operates in four locations across Northwest Arkansas. For more information, visit bankofgravett.net.

About the Federal Home Loan Bank of DallasThe Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank system created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $42.1 billion as of December 31, 2015, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced advances and other credit products to approximately 850 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas. Visit fhlb.com for more information.

Contact:

Corporate CommunicationsFederal Home Loan Bank of Dallaswww.fhlb.com(214) 441-8445

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160328/348591 Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150126/171462LOGO

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SOURCE Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas
MORRIS TOWNSHIP, N.J., March 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Honeywell (NYSE: HON) and NASA are proud to support their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education program with the award-winning, hip-hop educational experience FMA Live! Forces in Motion. The program made its return to the West Coast this month with plans to visit six states and perform at 40 public, private and military-connected middle schools.

This week, FMA Live! Forces in Motion is rolling into Arizona for performances in Sacaton (Sacaton Middle School), Tucson (Coronado K-8 School) and Tempe (Cholla Middle School).

The popular show incorporates hip-hop music and dancers with student volunteers and on-stage, interactive science experiments to demonstrate how physics plays a role in everyday life. Since the program's creation in 2004, the FMA Live! cast has performed before 455,000 students in more than 1,150 schools from all 48 contiguous U.S. states, as well as in Mexico and Canada.

"It is critically important to get middle school-aged students aware of and excited about STEM topicsespecially physics. We've seen FMA Live! make the introduction easier," said Donald James, NASA's associate administrator for Education. "Thanks to our collaboration with Honeywell, we're inspiring students to set their sights on future careers in the critical STEM field."

Each performance focuses on Newton's Universal Law of Gravity and Three Laws of Motion. Named after Newton's Second Law of Motion [Force equals Mass times Acceleration], FMA Live! uses music videos and interactive scientific demonstrations to teach and inspire students to pursue STEM careers.

"Many of today's engineering challenges will be solved decades into the future by the next generation of engineers and scientists," said Mike Bennett, president, Honeywell Hometown Solutions. "To prepare students to become tomorrow's innovators, Honeywell invests in programs like FMA Live! to ignite that spark of inspiration in fun and relatable ways."

The FMA Live! Forces in Motion experience features an online "Teachers' Lounge" that includes National Science Standards-based teaching resources, downloadable streaming videos, music from the show, and a comprehensive educational guide with lesson plans. This digital tool helps keep the post-show spark alive and can be incorporated into classroom learning objectives. To learn more visit FMALive.com.

About FMA Live! Using live actors, hip-hop songs, music videos, interactive scientific demonstrations and video interviews with scientists and engineers from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the show teaches Newton's Three Laws of Motion and Universal Law of Gravity.

Honeywell and NASA created FMA Live! to inspire middle school students to explore STEM concepts and careers. The program addresses Forces and Motion learning objectives outlined by the Next Generation Science Education Standards for students in grades 5-8.

Through Honeywell Hometown Solutions, the company has a number of award-winning programs focused on inspiring students at all grade levels to embrace STEM education. The company chose physics for FMA Live! Forces in Motion because studies have shown that the middle school years of education offer the best window of opportunity to get students interested in STEM careers.

Supporting Resources

For Educators

About Honeywell Hometown Solutions FMA Live! Forces in Motion is part of Honeywell Hometown Solutions, the company's corporate citizenship initiative, which focuses on five areas of vital importance: Science & Math Education, Family Safety & Security, Housing & Shelter, Habitat & Conservation, and Humanitarian Relief. Together with leading public and non-profit institutions, Honeywell has developed powerful programs to address these needs in the communities it serves. For more information, please visit http://citizenship.honeywell.com/.

About HoneywellHoneywell (www.honeywell.com) is a Fortune 100 diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes, and industry; turbochargers; and performance materials. For more news and information on Honeywell, please visit www.honeywell.com/newsroom.

Honeywell and the Honeywell logo are the exclusive properties of Honeywell, are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and may be registered or pending registration in other countries. All other Honeywell product names, technology names, trademarks, service marks, and logos may be registered or pending registration in the U.S. or in other countries. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Copyright 2016 Honeywell.

Media Contact: Cecilia Tejeda (973) 455-3450 [email protected]

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160325/348075

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SOURCE Honeywell
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA -- (Marketwired) -- 03/28/16 -- INTERFOR CORPORATION ("Interfor" or the "Company") (TSX: IFP) will release its first quarter financial results on April 28, 2016. Information related to Interfor's first quarter financial results will be available at www.interfor.com/investors.

The results will be released after Interfor's Board meeting on April 28, 2016. The analyst conference call is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Pacific on Friday, April 29, 2016. It will feature a brief summary of financial results by Interfor management followed by a question and answer period with analysts. The dial-in phone number is:

1-866-233-4795

The conference call will also be recorded for those unable to join the live discussion. The number to call to listen to the recording is 1-888-203-1112, Passcode 2393403 and it will be available until May 13, 2016.

ABOUT INTERFOR

Interfor is a growth-oriented lumber company with operations in Canada and the United States. The Company has annual production capacity of approximately 3 billion board feet and offers one of the most diverse lines of lumber products to customers around the world. For more information about Interfor, visit the website at www.interfor.com.

Contacts: John A. Horning Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (604) 689-6829

Source: Interfor Corporation
Bangor, Maine (PRWEB) March 28, 2016

It's Tuesday, March 29, 2016, at 8:15 a.m. A young woman enters a room and sits down. She faces members of the State Police, local law enforcement and the county sheriff sitting behind a table. None of them smile. They understand the gravity of the situation. Each of these seasoned professionals then asks the young woman difficult questions. Her mouth suddenly feels dry and a small bead of sweat runs down the side of her face as she searches her mind to give an answer that will satisfy the officers.

Is she being interrogated for a crime?

No. It's all part of a Husson University classroom exercise designed to help prepare criminal justice students for the job application process.

Prior to being offered a job with any law enforcement organization in Maine, and most other locations, prospective law enforcement professionals must complete an oral board examination. The board is normally composed of three or four experienced officers who ask the candidate questions.

"These mock oral board interviews give students a sense of how the process works," said John Michaud, assistant professor and director of Husson University's School of Legal Studies. "We want them to experience the kinds of questions they might be asked so they'll be fully prepared for an actual board interview."

The mock oral boards will be taking place on Tuesday, March 29, 2016, from 8:00 a.m.  9:15 a.m. in Peabody Hall, Room 228.

Law enforcement officers employed by the Maine State Police, Penobscot and Piscataquis County Sheriff's Departments, and the Bangor Police will be serving as members of the board for this classroom exercise. All of them are active duty officers who have served on real boards.

During the mock board interview process, students' knowledge of police procedure and situational application of the law will be tested. In addition, the officers will try to get a sense of the candidate's professional judgment. Six students have volunteered to be "applicants" as part of this exercise.

College of Business Dean, Dr. Marie Hansen, sees enormous educational benefit in this exercise. "At Husson University, we stress a hands-on, learn by doing approach. Describing what a board interview is like is not the same as going through one. Our experiential learning approach is the best way to prepare students for career success after graduation."

Students enrolled in Husson University's criminal justice program can choose from a variety of degree options including: associate's, bachelor's, and dual bachelor's degrees in criminal justice and psychology. There's also a five-year program where students complete a dual bachelor's degree and a master's degree.

Undergraduate criminal justice students may choose from a wide range of internships. In addition, they can attend the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in their senior year to pursue certification to become eligible for employment as a full-time law enforcement officer upon graduation.

Students also have the option to pursue a master's degree in criminal justice administration. The Master of Science in criminal justice administration focuses on the traditional areas of law, budgeting, and policy-making, with careful attention paid to the development of skills in communication, interpersonal relations, psychology, and leadership - essential to effective performance in organizations. For more information about the degrees available through Husson University's School of Legal Studies, visit Husson.edu/LegalStudies.

For more than 100 years, Husson University has prepared future leaders to handle the challenges of tomorrow through innovative undergraduate and graduate degrees. With a commitment to delivering affordable classroom, online and experiential learning opportunities, Husson University has come to represent superior value in higher education. Our Bangor campus and off-campus satellite education centers in Southern Maine, Wells, and Northern Maine provide advanced knowledge in business; health and education; pharmacy studies; science and humanities; as well as communication. In addition, Husson University has a robust adult learning program. For more information about educational opportunities that can lead to personal and professional success, visit Husson.edu.

Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/HussonUniversity/MockOralBoards2016/prweb13295641.htm
The Avon Products headquarters is seen in midtown Manhattan area of New York, June 21, 2013. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

(Reuters) - Cosmetics maker Avon Products Inc (NYSE: AVP) has agreed to give Barington Capital Group LP the right to approve the appointment of an independent director, in a bid to avoid a proxy fight with the activist investor.

The nominee would have to be jointly selected by Avon and its top investor, Cerberus Capital Management, to whom Avon sold a majority of its North America business earlier this month.

"We are pleased to have reached this settlement agreement with Barington, which allows us to avoid a potential proxy contest," said Chan Galbato, Avon's non-executive chairman.

The Barington Capital-led group has also agreed to withdraw its nominations for the Avon board elections to be held during the annual shareholder meeting scheduled for May 26.

Under the deal, Barington would vote in favor of all Avon nominees at the meeting. However, in the absence of a standstill agreement, Barington is not prohibited from agitating against the company in other matters.

The group, which owns more than 3 percent of Avon, had proposed a restructuring of the company in December, calling the appointment of Sheri McCoy as CEO a "mistake".

Avon has been struggling to reverse a steady decline in sales as the 130-year old pioneer of direct-selling loses favor to bigger players such as Estee Lauder Cos Inc (NYSE: EL) and other more exclusive brands, triggering discontent among its investors.

Avon said earlier this month it would cut 2,500 jobs and shift its headquarters to the UK, to which Barington said there was "still much more that needed to be done to improve the business".

Avon replaced half of its board when it agreed to sell a 19 percent stake to Cerberus Capital in December, adding three Cerberus executives to its board, including Galbato as non-executive chairman.

Shares of Avon, which named former FedEx Corp (NYSE: FDX) executive Cathy Ross to its board on Monday, rose as much as 9.1 percent to $4.67.

(Reporting by Yashaswini Swamynathan in Bengaluru; Editing by Shounak Dasgupta and Anupama Dwivedi)
TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's top government spokesman said on Monday there was no truth to a media report that the government had decided to delay a planned sales tax hike next year.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference that the government would raise the levy next April as scheduled unless there was a significant financial crisis or natural disaster.

The Sankei newspaper reported on Monday that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had basically decided to postpone the increase because it could hurt the economy and make it hard to beat deflation.

The government will examine factors such as growth data for January-March, which is due in mid-May, and will likely announce the final decision around the G7 summit in late May, the Sankei said.

(Reporting by Kaori Kaneko; Editing by Chris Gallagher)
An 89-year-old man has been air-lifted to hospital in a critical condition after being run over by a tractor.

An 89-year-old man has died after being run over by a tractor, police say. .

An ambulance staff member said they were called to a rural property in Weber, east of Dannevirke, about 4.16pm on Monday.

The man was collecting firewood when he was struck by the tractor.

The Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter airlifted him to Palmerston North Hospital's emergency department in a critical condition and he has since passed away.

There were no other details immediately available.
Authorities may launch a formal investigation into a failed bar crossing that left three fishermen stranded in Coromandel waters.

The trio had to be rescued from the ocean off Tairua after the 5.5metre aluminium boat they were in flipped during an attempt to cross the bar on Monday morning.

Witnesses said the boat had attempted to turn mid-crossing.

All three men - 60-year-old skipper and two men in their 40s - were not wearing lifejackets at the time and were tossed into the sea.

READ MORE: Three men flipped out of boat on Coromandel Peninsula

Coastguard recovered two men from the water and surf lifesavers rescued a man from the rocks. All three were uninjured.

A decision on whether Maritime NZ or Waikato Regional Council will formally investigate the incident is expected to be released on Tuesday afternoon, Waikato Regional Council said.

Council services team leader Richard Barnett said it was still unclear exactly what happened.

He said crossing a bar was an "extremely hazardous activity".

"That's one of the reasons we worked with others to create a series of bar crossing videos for boaties.

"One of the big no-nos is not to be wearing a lifejacket while crossing a bar. It's a national rule that they must be worn while crossing bars.

"So it's vital that people wear lifejackets in these circumstances, make wise decisions about whether it was safe to go on the water in the first place and never try to turn mid-crossing."

Skippers of vessels who attempted crossing in such circumstances put themselves and crew at risk, as well as emergency responders who had to go to help them, Barnett said.

"Boaties need to make sure they do their homework and equip themselves with the knowledge and skills they need to cross bars."
The property near Springston where four armed intruders are alleged to have held the occupants captive before fleeing police in a high speed car chase.

Four people accused of carrying out a violent home invasion in rural Canterbury were armed with a pistol, a knife and a metal bar, police allege.

The group, who are charged over an alleged armed home invasion and robbery at Springston, south of Christchurch, will stay in custody for more than a week.

All four face joint charges of robbing four people of cellphones, electrical items and a car, while armed with a pistol, a knife, and a metal bar.

SARAH MARSHALL An Amberley man was held down at gunpoint in his living room while intruders ransacked his house, police said.

Katherine Pamela Allison, 20, of Redwood, faces the joint charge of robbery as well as possession of methamphetamine and a pipe for smoking it, failing to stop for a police vehicle at Lincoln, and dangerous driving.

Joshua James Watkinson, 21, a factory worker from Coutts Island, faces the joint robbery charge, dangerous driving at Lincoln, driving while disqualified, and failing to stop for the police.

Douglas Anaru Lockley, 21, a concrete worker from Burnside, is charged with robbery.

Paratene Forreste Guy Aupouri Coleman, 26, a butcher from St Albans, is charged with robbery.

No pleas were entered on any of the charges when the four made brief appearances before Justices of the Peace in the Christchurch District Court on Monday.

No bail was sought and they were remanded in custody to April 6.

Police allege four people armed with weapons entered the Springston house about 1.30am on Sunday and held the occupants captive before taking items from the address, including a vehicle.

The four people were leaving in two vehicles as the police arrived, but were caught after chases which ended at Rolleston and Dunsandel.

A Rolleston woman said she heard screams of "pure terror" as she watched police dogs catch two alleged home intruders.

One of the occupants of the Springston house received minor injuries, but did not need medical treatment, police said.

Detective Sergeant Mike Freeman said earlier the offenders were known to one person who lived at the property.

VICTIM HELD AT GUNPOINT IN SECOND ATTACK

Another home invasion happened soon after the Springston incident in Amberley, North Canterbury.

A man told police he was held down at gunpoint in his living room while the intruders ransacked his house.

The intruders, again thought to be three men and a woman, burst in after he answered the door about 2.30am on Sunday.

He escaped to a neighbour's home, who phoned police.

Senior Constable Craig Newman said the homeowner was "traumatised".

"He was shaking and was pretty scared," he said.

Police have sought public information on the identities of the intruders.
The scammer "was tugging at our heart strings" - and funeral director Cheryl Cowden wants to warn people not to fall for it.

A funeral director was almost conned out of $8900 by a "sea captain" wanting help repatriating his dead wife's body.

Christchurch's Dignity With Sincerity Funeral Services owner Cheryl Cowden said she was "bloody lucky" she didn't fall for the elaborate scam.

The emails started arriving in January.

The "sea captain" claimed he was stuck in the middle of the ocean on a fishing boat.

READ MORE:

* Wellington woman caught up in online romance scam, loses fortune

* Marlborough woman warns elderly to be wary of holiday scam

* New Zealanders lose $12m to scams



The man, who gave his name as Captain O'Brien Lauren, claimed his wife, Michelle, had died in a crash in England.

Stuck in the middle of the ocean, he said he needed Cowden's help getting his wife's body back to Christchurch.

Cowden was happy to help.

"The emphasis of our business is that we care about people and he was tugging at our heart strings.

"He seemed genuine ... we were feeling a bit sorry for this guy in the ocean."

Cowden asked Lauren to sign a couple of authority forms, which he did, with his address and employment details attached.

Lauren then sent another email to say the funeral company in England needed to be paid $8900 before they would release his wife's body.

He said he would repay Cowden in a week's time, when he returned to Christchurch.

Cowden agreed, but said she was unable to pay with a credit card.

The captain then asked for her to pay in two payments via Western Union.

Suspicions piqued, Cowden checked some of Lauren's background.

"I looked up his address, the house was all shut up so he could have been away ... I looked up the funeral company to see it was legitimate, yes they had a company in London, so I thought, OK it seems reasonably legitimate."

She then rang Lauren's boss.

"I said I believe you've got a ship coming in with a chap named Lauren ... he said we don't own any ships."

The man phoned other fishing companies to see if they had heard of Lauren.

"He rung back and said, no there wasn't.

"So with that, I thought, this is a bloody scam."

Cowden did one more check. She rang the funeral company where Lauren's wife's body was apparently being held.

"She said you're ringing about a repatriation aren't you? I said 'yes'. She said, 'it's a scam'."

Cowden contacted police and NetSafe, but they "didn't want to know anything about it".

She then emailed Lauren one last time, to say she had spoken to Interpol and would await their instructions.

She hasn't heard from him since.

Cowden said Lauren was "absolutely believable".

"I was thinking, oh the poor bugger, he's stuck out in the middle of the bloody ocean, his wife has been killed . . . and in actual fact all he wanted was the bloody money.

"We could've transferred $8900 only for it never to be seen again."
Henry Boyd's body was found near the wreckage of a car after it went off the road, down a bank and into a tree near Methven.

Teenager Henry Boyd was one of four people killed in car crashes over the Easter long weekend.

Police confirmed that Boyd, 19, died when his car went off the road near Mayfield, southwest of Methven, on Friday. He was from Geraldine.

Police received a call at about 9.10am about a car crash on the Arundel-Rakaia Gorge Rd. The vehicle went off the road, down a bank and into a tree in a rest area. It ended a few metres from the road.

Mytchall Bransgrove Henry Boyd died on Friday.

A police spokesman said Boyd was found nearby.

"A car appears to have hit a tree and the deceased person has been found under the tree, near the car."

He was the only person in the car.

Tributes flowed online for Boyd over the weekend, with friends and family remembering a "cheerful guy" with "a heart of gold".

He had previously attended Geraldine High School, and was working at B R Jones Contracting.

Sergeant Bryan Ennis, of Ashburton, said police were still trying to determine the cause of the crash.

"We still have to get the vehicle examined," he said.

Boyd was one of four people to die on New Zealand roads over the long weekend.

The official Easter holiday period began at 4pm on March 24 and ended at 6am on March 29.

Three of the fatal crashes, including Boyd's, took place on Good Friday.

On Friday evening, 21-year-old Raumati man Tristan Hunter was killed when he was hit by a car travelling behind him while he was longboarding.

The car was being driven by one of his friends.

Police said he died at the scene on Maungakotukutuku Rd, near Paraparaumu, about 5.45pm.

And in Central Otago, 62-year-old Kusum Rohit Kenia from Mumbai was killed and five others injured after a van carrying tourists crashed.

The fourth fatal crash took place on Monday afternoon on State Highway 1, just south of Mangaweka.

Others were taken to hospital in a string of serious crashes across the country.

The 2015 Easter weekend road toll was one, with 101 reported injury crashes.

The road toll was an increase on the Easter 2015 period, when one person was killed in a car crash.
Ranil fronts for Ravi who apparently has no confidence in the House By Chandani Kirinde- Lobby Correspondent View(s): View(s):

Economic woes facing the country took centre stage in Parliament this week with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe cautioning that the rapidly changing global scenario could impact the country, but there was no need for people to tighten their belts as yet. However, the problems for Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayaka seem far from over, with a No Confidence motion against him being handed over this week, the second in less than six months.

The motion, signed by 37 MPs of the joint opposition group was handed over to Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Thursday, accusing the Minister of mishandling the economy, and seeking an early date to debate the motion. The same group handed in a No Confidence motion against Minister Karunanayaka last November, soon after he presented the Budget, but after the Appropriation Bill was passed with a majority in the House, the Speaker ruled there was no validity in debating that motion.

While the Budget presented by the Finance Minister last November has undergone many amendments since then, it was the Prime minister who explained to the House the rationale behind the changes introduced from time to time.

We cannot predict what the global situation will be like tomorrow. A barrel of oil had dropped to US$ 20 when I last spoke, and now it has risen to US$ 40. So we have to bring amendments to the Budget as the global situation emerges, and if necessary, we will tell the people to tighten their belts, the Prime Minister said.

His comments came during a two-day adjournment debate on the state of the countrys economy, moved by Chief Opposition Whip JVP MP Anura Dissanayaka who said the Government, while asking the people to tighten their belts, was not doing enough to ease the economic burden on the public.

However, much of the two-day debate turned out to be a lot of bashing of the previous regime of Mahinda Rajapaksa by Government MPs, while those on the other side said that this Government could learn from the way in which the previous regime handled the economy, recording a high growth even when the global economy was on the decline and oil prices had hit record high.

Mass Media and Parliamentary Reforms Minister Gayantha Karunathilake who joined the debate, said it was the bad economic policies of the previous regime that has placed the country in the present mess.

When President J.R. Jayewardene was elected in 1977, his government implemented the Accelerated Mahaweli Development Project to increase electricity generation by twofold. But what has the Mahinda Rajapaksa government done? They built ports where ships dont come, airports where planes dont land and stadiums where games are not played, he said.

UPFA MP Bandula Gunawardena defended the previous regimes handling of the economy saying there were proper fiscal policies in place then, and it was since this government took over things have got muddled and people are being burdened with taxes, while their income remains the same and the cost of living is rising daily. The Finance Minister should resign, given the state of the economy since he took over, the UPFA MP said.

Minister Karunanayaka said the Government has had to obtain local and foreign loans to pay back counted and hidden debts of the previous regime. He said around 89.9% of the Governments debt burden was from the previous administrations.

With several finance Bills to increase taxes up for debate in Parliament in April, the Finance Minister and the Government are likely to face more heat from their opponents in Parliament. And while the Government has so far not asked people to tighten their belts, the increasing costs of goods and services will also add to the economic woes of the people in the forthcoming festive season.
Germany shoots down France as Cannonball race grips Galle Face By Cecily Walker View(s): View(s):

After last years refurbishment, the annual Cannonball Run was back in style at the Galle Face Hotel. With perfectly manicured lawns, glorious sunshine and, thankfully for the runners, a refreshing sea breeze, the famous colonial hotel was looking the part for this historic event.

The runners are generally members of the diplomatic community and competing in this years race were French Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Jean-Marin Schuh and German Ambassador, Juergen Morhard. The Master of Ceremonies introduced the contenders in a light-hearted, entertaining manner, explaining that the winning title will last just one year but the name will be immortalized forever! The race became more than just a contest between these two diplomats; it was a battle between Germany and France! This was encouraged by the crowd who were given miniature flags to wave and thereby pledge allegiance to their chosen country.

As the guests gathered around the hotel Chequerboard sipping on delicious juices, Master of Ceremonies, Eshan, theatrically retold the story of the Galle Face Cannonball. Since 2008, the Cannonball run has become an annual tradition celebrated on the Galle Face Green, to commemorate the extraordinary incident of a cannon misfire by a member of the British Artillery in 1845. The 30- pound cannon accidentally fired, during a practice session around the southern ramparts of Colombo Fort, came crashing through the roof of the now Galle Face Hotel, leaving a heavy dent on the drawing room floor and came to rest under a chair. The Cannonball is now preserved in the museum in the South wing of the hotel but once a year it is brought out to become the centre-piece of this event and the finish line of the running race.

Over the years the length of the race has been shortened at the request of the contestants, which was welcomed by both crowd and participants due to the blistering heat this March. Therefore this years race, probably only 100m long was over in an exciting flash! It was a close race right up until the very end but to no avail Juergen Morhard crossed the line, touching the infamous cannonball just before his fellow competitor, making him the winner of the 2016 Cannonball Run.

The afternoon was full of entertaining quirks and all the pomp and ceremony expected to accompany such a British event. There were bagpipes leading the procession of contestants to the lawn, ceremonial cloaks and flag bearers adding to the amusement of this special event. After a short awards ceremony the crowd stayed to enjoy cannonball punch cocktails and scrumptious canapes  all that was missing were cucumber sandwiches!
Pakistan celebrates National day View(s):

Pakistan High Commissioner Maj Gen (Retd) Syed Shakeel Hussain hosted an evening reception on at the Cinnamon Lakesides Kings Court to celebrate Pakistans 76th National Day on March 23. The gathering included many political figures, diplomats and a cross section of society.

Earlier that morning the High Commissioner held a flag hoisting ceremony at the High Commission which was attended by members of the Pakistani community and friends. The messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out by the Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Khan Sipra.
Decentralising and devolving power: The difference By Lt Col (Retd.) Anil Amarasekera. View(s): View(s):

The English meanings of decentralisation and devolution of power seem similar when looked at superficially. However, the important fact that needs to be realised when it comes to the governing power of a country is that decentralisation amounts to the transfer of that power from the central government to a local authority, be it a region, a province or a district while devolution, on the other hand, is the removal of central governments power and handing that power over to a region, a province or a district. Therefore, decentralised power if misused by a region, a province or a district could be recalled by the central government while devolved power cannot be recalled by the central government if misused by a region, a province or a district.

Taking into consideration the difficulty or virtual impossibility for a central government to recall devolved power to a region, a province or a district, let us consider the possible repercussions in such an eventuality to this country with several simple examples.

Firstly let us consider irrigation which is the life blood of the farming community in the northern and eastern provinces. Once this subject is devolved to a province, if the provincial administration fails to maintain the reservoirs (Wewas) and irrigation canals in the Sinhala villages, there is nothing the central government can do to help the Sinhala cultivators in distress. The only alternative left for them would be to leave those villages in the northern and eastern provinces and migrate to some other province.

Secondly let us consider the subject of health. Once this subject is devolved to a province, if the provincial administration fails to provide adequate funds to maintain the rural hospital buildings serving the Sinhala community or fails to provide adequate doctors, nurses and other staff or even medical supplies to rural hospitals in their area, the Sinhala villagers will have no other alternative left other than to leave the province and to migrate to some other province where these facilities are available.

Thirdly let us consider the subject of education. Once this subject is devolved to a province, if the provincial administration fails to appoint the teachers needed to schools in Sinhala villages and also does not allocate adequate funds to maintain and repair school buildings in the Sinhala villages, there is nothing that the central government can do in this regard. The Sinhala population will therefore leave the province and migrate to some other province where good education facilities are available for their children.

These are only three simple examples that I have provided to bring to the attention of the reader the danger of devolving power to the provinces. However, the situation would be the same with regard to distribution of electricity, repair of roads, purchase of agricultural produce and many other such subjects, if there is devolution of power to a province where the Sinhala population is a minority. Therefore while devolution will only hasten the division of the country by creating administrative avenues to encourage the migration of the Sinhala population from the northern and eastern provinces of the country to other provinces, decentralisation of power will not encourage such action as these powers can be withdrawn by the central government if found to be misused by any province.

I have, during the time I was serving in the Sri Lanka Army and subsequently while working with volunteer organisations to alleviate poverty in villages affected by LTTE terrorism, observed how the provincial as well as the district administration functions in this country. Therefore, I am well aware of both the good and the bad qualities of such administrations. The provincial administration introduced after the 13th Amendment has been a total disappointment and an additional burden upon the people of this country with unnecessary duplication of effort and a waste of financial resources the country can ill afford. The district administration on the other hand has been time tested and found to be very effective under the guidance of an efficient Government Agent. I was able to solve many problems in affected villages with assistance from district administrations.

A good example in this connection is the village of Elapathwewa deep in the jungles of the Anuradhapura district. This village had not been visited by even a Grama Niladhari for many months. I decided to bring the problems faced by these villagers to the attention of the Government Agent of Anuradhapura. On the day I went to see S. D. Chandradasa, he had just lit the traditional oil lamp and taken over duties as the new Government Agent of Anuradhapura. I was his first visitor. After having patiently listened to my complaint, he immediately decided to travel with me in my vehicle to visit this village and to ascertain the truth. After his visit to this village with me that day he personally ensured that all the difficulties the people in that village had for many months were speedily resolved.

As opposed to the district administration I observed that the provincial administration was highly politicised. When I was serving in the Army as the Officer Commanding Troops in Anuradhapura, the Chief Minister of the provincial administration on a request made by his political supporters tried to interfere even in the deployment of troops in my area of responsibility. He wanted me to redeploy a detachment that I had withdrawn for strategic reasons from the village of Kukulkatuwa. He even spoke to my Divisional Commander and tried to get my decision reversed. However I must give him credit for finally accepting my refusal to agree to his request.

The villages in Weli Oya were situated in a very strategic area of the Yan Oya basin. It was in fact a land mass that was the gateway from the north to the east, which was the key area that the LTTE was trying to ethnically cleanse by attacking Sinhalese villages in the area, in an effort to create a mass exodus of its Sinhalese population to other parts of the country. Some of these villages in Weli Oya were in the Anuradhapura district, while some others were in the Vavuniya district. There were a few villages even in the Mullativu district and the Sinhalese villages adjacent to them were in the Trincomalee district. With the intensification of LTTE activity the district administration in both the Vavuniya and Mullativu districts found it difficult if not impossible to administer the Sinhalese villages under their purview. Therefore during the initial stage of the LTTE problem despite all the difficulties and with little or no support from the northeastern provincial administration, the Sri Lanka Army and the district administration in Anuradhapura were able to sustain these villages with the meager resources available, thus preventing a large scale exodus of its population as envisaged by the LTTE. This proves beyond reasonable doubt that a provincial administration was not an absolute necessity.

I will now place before the reader a few more personal observations made by me while working in the northern and eastern provinces. When a subject is devolved to the local administration the ultimate responsibility to ensure that the law of the land is properly implemented becomes the responsibility of that local administration. For example if the distribution of electricity is devolved to the province, the Minister of Power and Energy can shout from the roof top of his Ministry in Colombo that those who tap electricity illegally will be severely dealt with but the implementation of the law has to be carried out by the electricity board of the local authority. These employees will not take action against their own people. Therefore in the Muslim areas of the eastern province tapping of electricity illegally will continue with impunity as it is happening at present.

The next observation of devolved power being misused after the establishment of provincial councils is the alienation of land by the Pottuvil Divisional Secretariat. Land development permits were fraudulently prepared by certain Muslim officers in the Divisional Secretariat to alienate state land to people in their community. When the subject of land alienation has not even been devolved to provincial councils if fraudulent land development permits were prepared with impunity, what will happen if and when this subject is devolved to Provincial Councils? I was told by the former Government Agent and District Secretary of Ampara Mr. Sunil Kannangara that this matter was under investigation. When LTTE activity intensified in the Pottuvil Divisional Secretariat area, Sinhala people who had obtained land development permits to develop land left that area. Their buildings were ransacked and the land was subsequently occupied by Muslims who are now refusing to hand back these lands to the Sinhalese permit holders. The Pottuvil Divisional Secretariat also has a lackadaisical attitude towards helping the original Sinhalese permit holders to reoccupy their land.

Another observation that was made by me with regard to the inefficiency of devolved power to a province is its inability to prevent the encroachment into state land by the Muslim community. The archeological reservation of the Muhudu Maha Veharaya and the coastal and forest reservations in the Pottuvil Divisional Secretariat area have been encroached by Muslims and even forest reservations in the Lahugala Divisional Secretariat area has been cleared and encroached with impunity. Action by the provincial administration to prevent such activity has been slow if not lethargic due to the fact that most of the officers at the provincial level who implement the law of the land are also Muslims.

With governing power on most subjects devolved to the provincial administration the central government is now finding it difficult if not impossible to prevent such illegal activity as mentioned above where as if power had been decentralised the misused power could have been withdrawn from the provincial administration for direct action by the central government to implement the law of the land. With all the information provided by me in this article the reader is now left to decide what is best for our country.
Was Jesus really nailed to the Cross?  a response View(s):

My attention was drawn to the article captioned as above in the the Sunday Times of 20.03.16, page 20  based on an article by Meredith Warren, a lecturer in Biblical and Religious Studies at University of Sheffield, which appeared in The Daily Mail, London. A careful reading of the article shows that it is not the crucifixion that the writer is questioning, but the manner of crucifixion  whether Jesus hands were nailed to the cross-bar, (patibulum as it is called), or tied with rope.

Meredith Warren (MW) is not the first person to raise this question and try to cast doubt on the gospel accounts. A similar theory was propounded by J.W.Hewitt in Harvard Theological Review 25 (1932). He too theorized that rope, and not nails, were used in Jesus crucifixion.

Unfortunately, MW has made some misleading statements in the course of article, which is apt to cause some confusion in the minds of readers. It is on these that I would like to make a few comments on. To begin with, MW mentions early gospels and canonical gospels and non-canonical gospels.

The Canonical Gospels

It must be said that all Christians accept only the canonical Gospels (Mathew, Mark, Luke and John). The term canon, comes from a Greek word meaning rule, norm or standard. These canonical Gospels were accepted by the early Church Fathers (those Church leaders who came after disciples passed away). All the disciples, with the exception of St. John, died as martyrs, bearing witness to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In selecting these Gospels, the early church basically had three criteria  apostolic authority; whether they confirm to what is normally accepted by the church; continuous acceptance by the church at large. It must be understood that the canon is a list of authoritative books more than it is an authoritative list of books. These books didnt derive their authority from being selected; each was authoritative before being selected. The early church sensed that they were authoritative.

As Bishop John A.T.Robinson (1919-1983), author of Honest to God- 1963, observes, the New Testament must have been written prior to AD 70, which is the historically authenticated date for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This event is not mentioned in the NT as something that happened, but as an event that will occur in the future  (Redating the New Testament, 1976). So, Mathew, Mark, Luke and John are the earliest gospels. All the other Gospels (such as gospel of Thomas, Peter, mentioned by DM), are questionable documents which came later. The NT is composed of 23 other books, in addition to the canonical gospels, and authored by eight persons.

The Non-Canonical Gospels

The earliest converts to Christianity were Jews. As the religion spread to other races, some converts tried to introduce their original pagan ideas into Christianity. The Gnostics, were one such heretical sect who infiltrated into the early Church. It is not possible to go into details here regarding their beliefs. The Gnostics realized that the quickest way to have their teachings accepted was to attach the names of Apostles to their writings. Hence the Gnostic Gospels were named after known Bible characters  Gospel of Thomas, Gospel of Philip, Gospel of Mary etc. They came much later than the accepted four Gospels. They were never accepted by the early Church Fathers. Thus Ireneaus (AD 140), a student of Polycarp, who was a disciple of John the Apostle, speaking of the four canonical gospels says, So firm is the ground on which these Gospels rest, that the very heretics themselves bear witness to them, and, starting from these documents, each of them endeavours to establish his own peculiar doctrine.

Against Heresies  Book 3.11.7)

How was Jesus crucified?  If one wants to get information on this, the valid source will be the canonical gospels. Mentioning the Gospel of Peter in this context is not acceptable. So is the Gospel of Thomas, which contains 114 sayings attributed to Jesus but no narrative of what he did, and seems to have been written in Greek in Syria about AD 140. It is however acceptable to very liberal minded scholars, like those of the Jesus Seminar. These people represent an extremely small number on the far, far, left wing of New Testament thinking.

That the Romans used nails in crucifixion is without question, though tying the hands was also used. As MW says, all four canonical gospels include the crucifixion in their own slightly different ways, as is to be expected when four people write about the same topic. MW says that only the Gospel of John (Jn.20: 27) mentions the wounds on the hands. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus appears to some of the disciples and shows them the wounds on His hands and feet (Lk. 24: 39, 40). The nailing of Christ to the cross is central to Christian theology from the time of the apostles. When one talks of Jesus Crucifixion, it has always been associated with nailing, not tying with rope.

There is an unprecedented number of New Testament manuscripts, (more than 5000 Greek MS have been catalogued), and they can be dated extremely close to the original writings. In addition, there are translations into other languages  Latin, Syriac, Coptic, Armenian, Gothic, Georgian, and Ethiopic  in various libraries. None of these mention about Jesus being tied with ropes to the cross.

The Romans had perfected the technique of crucifixion by nailing to the cross. Their crucifixion squads were well trained. Also, nailing was done through the wrist, not the palm. They knew exactly where to place the long nail. The nail was driven through, what is known as, the Space of Destot, a small circular area in the carpus (between the capitate, lunate, triquetral and hamate). This causes no fracture and supports the weight of the body without tearing, as can happen if the palm is used. The nail damages the median nerve, which is close to the Space of Destot, causing severe pain when the victim slumps forward on the cross. The word excruciating literally means out of the cross. (David A. Ball MD, The Crucifixion and Death of a Man Called Jesus: From the Eyes of a Physician, 2010)

Archaeological Evidence  It has now been established that the use of nails is historical. In 1968 archaeologists in Jerusalem found the remains of about three dozen Jews who had died during the uprising against Rome around AD 70. One victim, whose name was apparently Yohannan, as engraved in the ossuary  (a container for bones of the dead), had been crucified. They found a seven-inch nail driven into his feet (calcanium or heel bone), with small pieces of olive wood from the cross still attached. This was excellent archaeological confirmation of a key detail in the gospels description of the Crucifixion  (Alexander Metherell MD. PhD, quoted in Lee Strobel, Case for Christ, 1998). It is indeed strange that Warren does not mention this.

Conclusion

There can be no doubt that Jesus was nailed to the cross. The canonical Gospels, the Epistles and the writings of the early Church Fathers fully support this. Nowhere in very early Christian literature do you find any suggestion that Jesus was tied to the cross. If it really was the truth, there is no reason why it should not have been admitted.

Finally, the over-all impression that one gets after reading the article, is that MW has only created doubts about the manner of Jesus crucifixion, without establishing anything. The artefacts mentioned, like the graffiti and gemstones, are irrelevant. On the other hand, the 1968 discovery of the heel bone with the nail impaled on it, from a crucifixion victim of the 1st century in Jerusalem, is not even mentioned. We can only conclude that Warrens work is of the same genre as Nicolaus Notovich, Dan Browne, Michael Baigent, Timothy Freke, Peter Gandy and others.

In concluding, may I say that Christians everywhere have become accustomed to having their religion attacked in the media and in books. Maybe, it has a salutary effect! It should make them question themselves as to why they believe what they believe.

The Word of God has withstood attacks from the 1st century. Truly, it can be said that just as the hammers in a blacksmiths shop get worn out through years of beating, leaving the anvil unchanged, so has the anvil of Gods Word prevailed against the hammer blows of the sceptics. The hammers are gone, the anvil remains.

(Some of the facts mentioned in this article are from Lee Strobels The Case for Christ, 1998)
A 52-year-old male was rescued from the Kaimai Ranges after injuring his hip.

The injury was serious enough to warrant the call-out of the Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter.
Harbour bars can be tricky to cross. Photo: file.

Police said they should have known better.

Coastguard recovered the two men in the water and surf lifesavers rescued a man from the rocks.



The trio escaped injury free.



The three men on board the five and a half metre boat were from Auckland and Australia, Senior Constable Matt Goodman said at the scene.

The skipper was a local holiday home owner and had travelled the bar countless times.



"He should have known better," Goodman said.



Boaties should listen for bar warnings and always assess a bar before entering, he said.

Lifejackets are mandatory when crossing a bar.

Two ambulances were waiting at the Pauanui wharf to assess the men once they were back on shore.

The Auckland Westpac Rescue Helicopter, Tairua-Pauanui Coastguard and Pauanui Surf Lifesaving Club IRB responded to the rescue.

The Coastguard say if things go wrong on a bar, a vessels passengers are usually either thrown from the boat, or the boat is capsized, meaning they are at the mercy of the sea until such time as they can swim to safety, they are stumbled across by a boatie by chance, or they are reported overdue by someone ashore.

By filing a BARWATCH, you know that if things do happen to go wrong, you have already put steps in place to assist in your survival. Coastguard Volunteers train in search techniques, recovery techniques and rough water handling, and most rescue vessels are also equipped with high spec. night vision or thermal imaging gear.

This means that if the worst case scenario should happen, local Coastguard are well equipped to come to your rescue.

There are three things boaties can do to increase their odds when crossing a river or harbour bar:

1) Obtain local information and knowledge before attempting to cross a bar.

2) Wear a Lifejacket at all times when crossing a bar

3) File a BARWATCH report with your local coastguard before crossing a bar.

For more information on Bar Crossings, and to see some educational videos relating to local bars, please visit http://www.maritimenz.govt.nz/Recreational-Boating/Skipper-responsibilities/Bar-crossing.asp
By day she is the schoolyard envoy, a peacemaker. Sabbath Kerr wanders St Thomas More Catholic School in Mount Maunganui defusing arguments and other trouble.

She is an appointed peer mediator.
Music comes to Whakatane in April when the Bay of Plenty Music School gathers for its annual get together.

Whakatane is hosting the annual Bay of Plenty Music School, which is New Zealands longest surviving music school.
Councillors have approved the construction of a wastewater scheme for the Te Puna West community at their Operations Committee meeting this month.

The scheme moves households from septic tanks to reticulated sewerage as an option addressing water quality concerns in the area.
New Zealands citrus orchardists will have more direct involvement in managing biosecurity risks to their industry, now NZ Citrus Growers Inc has signed the Government Industry Agreement Deed for Biosecurity Readiness and Response.

NZCGI has become the ninth signatory to the agreement following a ceremony in Wellington attended by the Minister for Primary Industries - Nathan Guy, NZCGI Chair Richard Curtis, NZCGI Executive Manager - Nikki Johnson, Ministry for Primary Industries Director-General Martyn Dunne, and the GIA Secretariat.
The warm weather and lack of rain increase respiratory allergies, make crops ripen earlier and affect harvests, but also attract more tourists to the region

23 degrees in December. ::SUR

Five years ago, the Urban Environment Observatory (OMAU) at Malaga City Hall issued a report about climate change, in which it warned that Calle Larios, the Thyssen Museum, the Arraijanal area and Pedregalejo will be under water in 100 years if carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere remain at the same levels as at present. This is due to rising temperatures and the thawing of polar icecaps and glaciers, which will result in a rise in the sea level.

Looking at this scenario a century beforehand, some people will believe it and others wont, but the reality is that for several years now the winter temperatures in Malaga province have been abnormally high and there has been little rainfall, both factors which experts associate with climate change.

On 22 October 2014, Malaga registered a maximum high of 36.3C; the previous record was on 11 October 1952, when it reached 36C. Last year, 2015, has gone down in history as one of the warmest and the second driest year of the 21st century so far.

That has meant that bars with outside terraces are still enjoying good business, because for visitors it seems that summer never ends and hotel occupancy rates are up because the attraction of sunshine and beaches is stronger than ever.

On the contrary, however, clothes shops have been finding it difficult to sell their winter collections for several years now. Shops selling soft furnishings have seen sales of blankets and quilts plummet and electrical stores have experienced a 60 per cent drop in sales of heaters. In the agricultural sector, some crops have come into flower not just a week or two early, but nearly three months ahead of normal. Strawberries were on sale in the markets before Christmas, and that is very unusual. These are just a few of the many effects this crazy weather is causing in Malaga.

Although, since November, temperatures have occasionally dropped, there has been no really cold weather. In fact, most people have rarely felt the need to wear a jacket and have not needed to dig scarves or gloves out of their wardrobes. Not to mention umbrellas. Since the hydrological year began in October, the number of rainy days can practically be counted on one hand.

Last Thursday was World Meteorological Day and all the experts were warning of the palpable effects of climate change.

Health

For a number of years, more and more people have been consulting doctors about allergies, especially respiratory allergies which have increased by an incredible amount: nowadays, one in every four people in Malaga are affected, says the coordinator of the Alergomalaga group, Gonzalo Campos.

It isnt just that more people are suffering from allergies. They are increasing because of prolonged dry weather and high temperatures. Autumn is lasting for six months nowadays so were not getting a winter season, autumn just goes on until the summer, says this specialist.

In Malaga, the most serious allergies are those caused by dust mites. These mites proliferate in high temperatures and a high degree of environmental humidity, conditions which are present on the Costa del Sol. To make matters worse, the present climatic situation makes the periods of allergies last longer and they are more intensive and virulent, says Campos.

The second major cause of respiratory allergies in the province is pollen, firstly olive pollen and then grass pollens, especially parietaria and sticky pollen, of which there is a great deal in the Guadalhorce valley and La Axarquia and which remains in the air because of the lack of rain.

Gonzalo explains that doctors are seeing a large number of new cases, as well as people who are suffering more than usual with symptoms such as rhinitis and who may well end up in the Emergency Department with serious asthma. This has become more common in recent years.

In 2015, there were record numbers of consultations of this type. We were rushed off our feet. Because it didnt rain much in the spring, the pollen was released in large quantities and remained suspended in the air, so it affected a great many people, he says.

There have been some very rigorous studies into this phenomenon which show that by 2030, nearly 50 per cent of the population in Europe could be affected by some type of respiratory allergy as a result of climate change.

Agriculture

The agricultural sector has not escaped the effects, either. Although the Asaja association does not like to comment on climate change, referring instead to a circumstantial situation produced by present climate conditions, it agrees that abnormally high temperatures in November and December have resulted in plants behaving as if spring had arrived.

Crops such as mango, avocado, olives, citrus fruits and even almonds, important elements of Malaga agriculture, have blossomed several months early in some areas.

We believe this is an unusual situation and we fear that it is going to cause problems. Farmers are worried, says the president of Asaja in Malaga, Baldomero Bellido.

The problem, according to Inaki Hormaza, a researcher with the CSIC and a scientist at La Mayora, is that cold weather and frost in March could affect the ripening of the fruit. If temperatures continue to rise and the minimum temperatures are also higher, we will have to look for varieties which need warmer conditions in winter, but first of all we need to see whether this is a continuing trend, he says.

The heatwaves last summer reduced production of citrus fruits, avocados, olives, cereals and many other crops. They resulted in a diversification of quality and caused some prices to rise and others to drop. This year, vegetables grown in greenhouses, such as tomatoes and cucumbers, have been produced much more rapidly.

Its as if we have been in spring all this time. We have had to use a lot of water. Whereas we used to water every two days, were having to do so every day now. Production has increased, so prices have fallen. Now, they are getting a bit better because the produce from Almeria is coming to an end, says Jesus Ariza, a farmer from La Axarquia.

According to ecologist Marta Montserrat, head researcher for the CSIC at La Mayora Institute of Subtropical and Mediterranean Horticulture, when temperatures rise and relative humidity drops, the population of natural enemies of pests which spontaneously colonise the crops drops drastically and, as a result, there are more pests. In order to find a fast and biological form of pest control for the different crops, Marta has just succeeded in obtaining a 230,000-euro grant from the National Research Plan for a new project to identify natural predators which have adapted to the changing climate. In other words, ones which can cope with high temperatures and low relative humidity.

Commerce

Malaga commerce has also been affected by climate change. The president of the Malaga Federation of Commerce (Fecoma), Enrique Gil, says clothes shops have been finding it difficult to sell winter clothing for years. Its because the weather is so good. For five years now, we have hardly ever needed to wear coats in November. It is affecting shops on the coast and inland. It is even the same in Ronda, he explains.

The president of the Association of City Centre Businesses, Maria Jose Valenzuela, agrees. Because the weather isnt cold, by the time shops start their January sales they have sold hardly any winter clothes, she says. The same goes for shops which sell soft furnishings: blankets and quilts are hardly selling at all. When items dont sell, the shops make less money, Maria Jose points out.

According to the president of Fecoma, sales of heaters from electrical stores have dropped by about 60 per cent, but air conditioning units are flying off the shelves. The high temperatures mean that people are using air conditioning for eight or nine months of the year, he says.

Between 2014 and 2015, sales of air conditioning systems doubled. Even now, in March, we are still installing air conditioning in homes, agrees Daniel Gomez, the manager of Servitec Climatizacion.

The Endesa electricity company has some interesting information. It says Malaga is the only province in Andalucia in which energy consumption dropped in December and January compared with the same months one year earlier. In December, it dropped by eight per cent, and in January it was two per cent lower than a year previously.

Endesa attributes this reduction in demand for electricity to the mild temperatures, as people have not needed to heat their homes as much as normal.

Tourism

The warm winter weather is proving positive for bars with terraces, but not so good for cosy places where peole usually go to escape from the cold weather outside. Nevertheless, the spokesman for the Malaga hostelry association Mahos, Jose Simon, says the mild weather is attracting more people in general.

The summer season hasnt really come to an end, especially for businesses in Pedregalejo, Banos del Carmen and El Palo. Their terraces are still very popular, he says. However, other establishments which have no terrace, such as many in the city centre, are losing business as a result, he warns.

For the president of the Aehcos association on the Costa del Sol, Jose Carlos Escribano, the sunshine and beaches are major attractions in Malaga so this weather is proving very positive for the hotel sector.

The figures are good, not only for the present season but also for the forthcoming one. The better the weather, the more people come and this winter has been even better than last year. People are making the most of it and taking short breaks, he explains.

Springlike weather in winter has its pros and cons. The lack of rain affects agriculture and prices of produce, but it also multiplies income from tourism as visitors from Europe come in search of sunshine. As they say, its an ill wind that blows nobody any good.
Kyle Fountaine.online.jpg

Kyle J. Fountaine, 21, of Fulton, accused of providing the marijuana to two minor victims under 17 years old.

(Provided photo)

FULTON, N.Y. -- A 21-year-old Fulton man is charged with providing marijuana to two minors under the age of 17, according to New York State Police.

Kyle J. Fountaine was charged with two counts of criminal sale of marijuana, a felony, and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor, state police said.

State police said they saw a vehicle parked with the engine shut off at about 7:59 p.m Saturday in the parking lot of the town of Oswego office building on county Route 7. A state police trooper approached the vehicle and smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, state police said.

State police said the four occupants where allegedly smoking marijuana in the town office parking lot.

Fountaine is charged with providing the marijuana to the three occupants, police said. He was arraigned in the Oswego Town Court and remanded to the Oswego County Jail.

He is scheduled to return to court at 4:30 p.m. today, state police said.
green photo.JPG

Andrew Green leaves County Court after his arraignment March 28, 2016.

(Douglass Dowty | ddowty@syracuse.com)

Andrew Green

Syracuse, NY -- A U.S. Air Force Colonel was arraigned today on multiple rape charges from DeWitt and Manlius involving a teenage girl.

Andrew W. Green, 49, of Jamesville, came to court in a suit and tie for today's arraignment before state Supreme Court Justice John Brunetti. He's accused of having sex with a 15-year-old girl who may have turned 16 during the alleged abuse, according to the indictment.

Green is charged with two counts of third-degree rape in May and November 2015, as well as a third rape sometime between October 2015 and January 2016 in Manlius, according to the indictment. He's also accused of sexually abusing the girl in November 2015 in Manlius.

All charges are based on the the victim being under the age of consent. There's no allegation of force.

Green was division chief at the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome before being reassigned during the investigation, according to media reports. He was arrested in early February by state police.

Air Force officials were not immediately available for comment to update Green's employment status.

Green is free on $5,000 cash bail. He's due back to court May 20.
SYRACUSE, NY - One person was critically injured and a 10-year-old child also was shot in the ankle in a shooting in the 300 block of Tioga Street in Syracuse about 7:40 p.m. today, according to Syracuse police.

Police said several shots were reportedly fired.

A 10-year-old boy suffered a gunshot wound to his right ankle, and a 35-year-old man suffered multiple gunshot wounds, according to Syracuse police.

Both victims were transported to Upstate University Hospital. The man is in critical condition, police said.



Police said the suspect in the incident possibly left the area in a black four-door sedan, westbound on Otisco Street toward South Geddes Street.

There is no further information at this time.

Anyone with information can call the Syracuse Police Department at 442-5222. All calls will be kept confidential. Anonymous tips may also be submitted using the "SPD Tips" App.
medicalmisconduct.jpg

Kristen Johnson

SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- A nurse who took photos of an unconscious Upstate University Hospital patient's penis with her smart phone has turned in her nursing license.

The state Education Department announced it has approved a request from Kristen Johnson, 27, of Fulton to surrender her license.

In a signed consent agreement, Johnson did not contest a charge that she practiced nursing with moral unfitness.

Johnson was arrested in May of 2015 after a nine-month investigation.

Johnson pleaded guilty in November to misdemeanor disseminating of unlawful surveillance photos. Felony charges against her were reduced as part of her plea which required she give up her license to practice as a registered nurse and spend three years on probation.

In addition to photographing the male patient's genitals, Johnson used her iPhone 5 to take a video of another nurse cleaning an incapacitated female patient's gastrointestinal blood clot, according to court papers.

How to check up on nurses and other health professionals.



Contact James T. Mulder anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-470-2245
Merrick Garland

Judge Merrick Garland is President Barack Obama's choice to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia on the Supreme Court.

(The Associated Press)

John Feinblatt is president of Everytown for Gun Safety.

John Feinblatt | Special to The Washington Post

By this point, we're all familiar with the National Rifle Association's political playbook.

We've seen its leaders misinform and exaggerate before, in debates about legislation, candidates for office and judicial nominees. While their tactics might be tried and true, they typically bear little relationship to the truth.

Their latest campaign, against Judge Merrick Garland who has been nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court, is no different.

Garland is the chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Regarded as the second-highest court in the land, the District of Columbia Circuit has served as a steppingstone to the Supreme Court for former justice Antonin Scalia, who died in February, along with Justices John G. Roberts Jr., Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Clarence Thomas, among others.

Here's something else about Garland's resume. Nothing about it sheds any light whatsoever on how he views guns or the Second Amendment.

Of course, NRA headquarters wants you to believe something different. In a Washington Post op-ed last weekend, the NRA's chief lobbyist, Chris W. Cox, portrayed Garland's nomination to the Supreme Court as nothing less than an existential threat to lawful gun ownership.

The evidence for such a claim doesn't exist. The truth is, appointing a successor to Scalia will not threaten our Second Amendment rights.

It's settled law. The court's landmark 2008 decision in District of Columbia v. Heller recognized an individual right to keep and use a handgun for self-defense in the home. Just Monday, the Supreme Court confirmed that Heller remains good law, and it did so unanimously -- giving the lie to the NRA's repeated claim that the fate of the Second Amendment depends on the vote of a single justice.

The NRA's leaders falsely portray the right to gun ownership as on the precipice. They're just as alarmist about Garland's record. Again, their claims are baseless.

To paint Garland as an opponent of gun rights, they distort a basic procedural vote that he cast in a gun case before the D.C. Circuit. In fact, Garland didn't issue a ruling. He didn't even say or write anything about the merits of the case. And think about the company he was keeping. Judge A. Raymond Randolph, a George H.W. Bush appointee and outspoken conservative, was among three judges who joined Garland in the same vote.

NRA leaders also say Garland voted to uphold that classic gun lobby bugaboo: a federal "registry" of gun owners. In fact, Garland simply joined an opinion upholding a Justice Department rule that allowed for the temporary retention of data from the national gun-sale background-check system. The FBI kept the data for no more than six months to ensure the system's accuracy and integrity. Then it destroyed the data, in keeping with the law. The "registry"? It doesn't exist.

In short, nothing in his record suggests Justice Garland wouldn't respect the Second Amendment and uphold the Constitution. But when it comes to vetting high-profile judicial nominees, the NRA's leaders have shown they're willing to look past the facts.

Previously, when Justice Sonia Sotomayor was nominated, NRA officials came up with a creative rationale for opposing her. Following what was at the time the Supreme Court precedent, Sotomayor had joined an opinion that upheld a state's ban on nunchucks. Sotomayor was practicing what's called "judicial restraint," and nunchucks aren't guns, but no matter -- the gun lobby branded her an enemy of the Second Amendment.

Next nominee, same tactic. Justice Elena Kagan had no meaningful record on gun issues, but that didn't stop the NRA from misrepresenting her experience and opposing her nomination.

Now it's Garland's turn to be a (not very convincing) threat to our Constitution and freedoms.

If the NRA's leaders were simply ginning up a no-compromise base and using the nomination process to fund-raise, then we could dismiss their rhetoric as business as usual and ignore them. But when the Senate majority leader says it would be unimaginable to confirm a nominee from President Obama who is opposed by the NRA, that's when the rest of us ought to set the record straight.

So don't believe the hype. The NRA's partisan political arm doesn't represent the views of the vast majority of Americans.
MADISON  Wisconsin is gradually taking steps to regulate cellphone use while driving, but an all-out ban is still a year or more away in the state Legislature.

This month, legislators approved a bill imposing a $20 to $40 fine for drivers talking on handheld cellphones in construction zones, with the fine rising to $50 to $100 for subsequent offenses within a year. Gov. Scott Walkers office said he plans to sign the legislation.

But the Republican-controlled Legislature ignored a Democratic proposal for a broader ban, leaving it to die as the session wrapped up this month.

Marshfield Republican Rep. John Spiros, a lead sponsor on the construction zone bill, believes the state will eventually move toward an outright ban.

When it comes down to it, safety really is the key to this whole thing, Spiros said.

Every day in the U.S., crashes involving distracted drivers kill about eight people and injure more than 1,100, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wisconsin and 45 other states currently prohibit texting while driving, but calling-while-driving bans have been slower to catch on, with only 14 states requiring that drivers talk on hands-free phones.

Really, basically, its just trying to use technology to improve driver safety, said Assembly Minority Leader Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, who introduced a bill for fining drivers who use hand-held cellphones regardless of being in construction zones.

A few Republicans have told Barca they could see merit to his broader bill, but the transportation committee didnt even hold a hearing on it.

It sends a strong signal that theyre just not willing to entertain this, Barca said.

Transportation committee chair Rep. Keith Ripp, R-Lodi, didnt return a call for comment on why the bill never got a public hearing.

Some legislators favor fewer restrictions and want to leave it up to individual rights, said Spiros, the vice-chairman of the transportation committee. For him, its about safety. He already passed a city-level ban in 2008 during his time on the Marshfield City Council. Waupaca County, Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau and Rhinelander also have local ordinances regulating cellphone use while driving.

Spiros said he would like to hear from more constituents about the before moving forward on the state level.

Eventually, Barca said, he thinks cellphone bans will be commonplace, like texting-while-driving bans, but it may take a while.

Old habits die hard, unfortunately, Barca said.
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Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Delhi-NCR Posts: 3,394 Thanked: 46,017 Times

re: Submarines of the Indian Navy SUBMARINE WEAPONS





Torpedoes









The offensive weapon of choice for a submarine to take on another submarine or a surface vessel. A torpedo would carry its own sonar, active and/or passive with systems to home onto the target or even onto the propeller wake a ship leaves behind. Most torpedoes have a trailing wire to keep connected to the mother submarine for mid-course corrections and to insulate it from counter measures from the intended target. Torpedoes typically have top speeds in the 40 knot to 65 knot range and at a slower speed could have a range out to 25 to 60 kms. These are indicative estimates as real capabilities are rarely released. Today submarine launched torpedoes, with one Russian exception, are almost universally 533mm or 324mm in diameter, 20 to 25 feet long and broadly in the 2 tonne weight class. Torpedoes are powered, usually, by batteries but more recent ones from UK and Russia have a miniature gas turbine with the torpedo carrying its own oxygen cell for the combustion.





Anti-ship missiles



In the early 1980s anti-ship missiles custom made for submarine launch entered service with the Americans and the French. Here a regular anti-ship sea-skimming missile is launched, from a torpedo tube, encapsulated in a buoyant water tight container. The container gets to the surface at which point the missiles turbo-jet/rocket motor fires and propels it out into open air and starts its sea skimming attack flight path.





A Harpoon submarine launched anti-ship missile breaking surface. The top part of its water tight container is seen flying off. Sea-skimmers are notoriously difficult to detect. They fly fast (800 to 1000 kmph) and if attacking a target say 40 kms away the time from breaking surface to hitting the ship is in the 2 to 3 minute bracket giving the target precious little time to become aware that it is under attack, then figure out from where and by what and then take counter action. Their very small frontal radar signature helps sea skimmers hide in the radar clutter of the waves. Only a fully automated protection system of anti-missile radar-gun-missile combination can protect a ship from a sea skimmer.Photo Source ##





The sequence of operation of a submarine launched Harpoon sea skimmer. Current marks of the Harpoon have effective range in the 250kms to 280kms bracket. The Indian Navy deploys the aircraft launched version of the Harpoon. Photo Source ##





Mines



Mines are weapons of denial. Laying a bed of mines or simply stating that you have is a deterrent to shipping in that area or through that choke point. All submarines today can carry mines usually two in place of a torpedo. Mines are of various kinds - magnetic, acoustic, pressure, time based or even a combination. PNS Ghazi was laying a minefield on December 3rd, 1971 at the mouth of Vizag harbor when she blew up and sunk. You can read the full story in post #38 at





Cruise missiles



Submarine launched cruise missiles are the larger longer legged cousins of the submarine launched anti-ship missile. The cruise missiles started off in earnest under the Soviets as long range weapons aimed at American carrier task forces. Today they have evolved as long range land attack missiles with, often, additional anti-ship capability. For land attack a cruise missile will use some form of terrain countour matching to guide it to its target. Cruise missiles fly low and often use small aircraft engines (instead of rocket motors) to get long legs - just to be clear a rocket motor carries its own fuel+oxygen source while a aircraft engine draws oxygen from the atmosphere thus leaving more space for fuel. Simply put in a missile, for a given weight & size, a rocket motor gives speed while an aircraft engine gives range. The most widely used cruise missile is the U.S. Tomahawk made famous in the first Gulf War in 1991. Submarine launched cruise missile users are USA, UK, Russia, India & South Korea only to best of my knowledge. The Indo-Russian Brahmos is the world's fastest cruise missile. The dividing line between cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles is getting blurred as technology advances.









Ballistic Missiles



Submarine launched ballistic missiles have been of great strategic importance for the USA, Russia, and other nuclear powers as they can hide from reconnaissance satellites and fire their nuclear weapons with virtual impunity. This makes them immune to a first strike directed against nuclear forces, allowing each side to maintain the capability to launch a devastating retaliatory strike, even if all land-based missiles have been destroyed. This relieves each side of the necessity to adopt a launch on warning posture, with its grave attendant risk of accidental nuclear war. Ballistic missiles, carrying nuclear warheads, launch from underwater into near orbit altitudes and then descend down in a ballistic trajectory onto the target re-entering the atmosphere at several times the speed of sound. These missiles typically have ranges between 5000 kms to 12,000 kms, weigh between 40 to 60 tonnes and carry between 1 to 12 warheads apiece.





Photo sequence of a Trident inter-continental ballistic missile being launched from a submarine. A - missile container hatch opens underwater. Submarine at periscope depth i.e. ~22 metres; B - missile just starts to emerge pushed out by compressed air; C - missile ascends slowly out of the submarine's wake. You can see the fin and raised periscope on the left; D - booster motor fires to push the missile clear into the air; E - main rocket fires and missile starts its ascent into near space; F - warheads re-entry onto target.





THE INDIAN NAVAL SUBMARINE ARM





The proud badge which submariners of the Indian Navy wear above their line of medals shows one dolphin on either side of the emblem of the Indian Republic - the lions atop the Ashoka Pillar. Photo source @@





Early struggle to form the Submarine Arm



The Indian Navy was keen, in the 1950s, to form a submarine force albeit of one submarine for purposes of training and giving the surface warships some real practice at anti-submarine exercises. The political leadership especially Pandit Nehru was not keen on acquiring patently offensive weapons such as submarines and the British, then our only source of material, were not keen on providing one. Our attempts to buy a second hand vessel also came to nothing when all that the British would share was a World War II boat at the end of its life. In 1962 we finally proposed to buy a brand new Oberon class submarine, then the latest the British had at GBP 5 million provided the British Government would provide soft credit to ease our then tough forex situation. Training of the first batch of officers and sailors started in earnest in UK but the credit did not come through and the deal petered off. One good that came out was a thorough 12 month training of a core group with lots of sea time and practical watch keeping. Our Navy was so closely intertwined with the Royal Navy in those days and so many Indian personnel went to the UK for training that to their credit the British submariners treated our men as a full part of the crew and gave them real experience of handling a boat. After the 1962 debacle with China the Americans and the British were willing to sell us Army and Air Force equipment (to defend against the Chinese) but not submarines. In 1964 Harold Wilson the British PM sardonically told YB Chavan our Defence Minister, "I did not know that submarines climbed mountains".





Soviet coup de grace



To cut a long story short the Soviets were willing to sell us their then latest diesel-electric submarine the Foxtrot class (Russian designation I-641). A quick review by the Indian Navy indicated that the Soviet subs were as good as the British Oberon and came at a price of Rs 3 crores a piece paid for in Rupees and not USD. YB Chavan and the then Naval Chief BS Soman moved fast and closed the deal in 1965. This was encouraged by the aggression by Pakistan in 1965 who had received their first sub PNS Ghazi from the Yanks and by Indonesia who encouraged by the Chinese were building a naval fleet, constantly intruding into the Andaman-Nicobar waters and had declared that the Indian ocean should be renamed the Indonesian ocean. Today when we are a stable democracy and recognized large economy all this sounds like a lifetime away. But such were the realities of geo-politics of newly independent countries with the over arching background of the cold war.



For the sake of a small GBP 5 million of soft credit the British lost our custom altogether at least where subs are concerned. Lord Louis Mountbatten tried to intercede on our behalf as he realized this would push the Indian Navy into the Soviet sphere but to no avail. Why blame the British. Our bureaucracy is also capable of wearing horse blinkers and inflicting strategic blunders as we will see in a few paragraphs.



Remember these events took place 8 to 17 years after independence. The glow of colonialism still hung over the world. The British wrongly assessed we had no choice but to do their bidding. And they were clear about not willing to aid an emerging leader of the non-aligned world with an offensive force like a submarine arm. We were hesitant to deal with the Soviets initially but gradually bridges of deep friendships got built between the Soviet & Indian Navies.





Foxtrots







Any one who has visited a Foxtrot cannot but fall in love with this simple and superbly designed boat. Very Soviet in character cramming more machinery, batteries and torpedoes in a given space than Western navies can dream of. In the Foxtrots you could not bathe for the entire duration of the patrol. Period. It was like living and working inside a machine. The Soviets to their credit gave us their most evolved and reliable design that worked well for our fledgling submarine force to learn their trade on. The Foxtrot's snorkeling range in real world terms means it could, if needed, sail from India to the North China coast, patrol there for 3 weeks and return back without refueling. I don't know if this was ever practiced. With the Foxtrots our surface Navy learnt how invisible a submarine can be when it can pick up a ships propeller noise 15 to 20kms away and often the ship cannot detect a submarine 3 kms away. That was true in 1967 and it is true today.



In the December 1971 Indo-Pak war all 4 of the submarines then in commission were deployed off the coasts of West and East Pakistan. On the one hand their presence helped to bottle up the surviving Pakistani fleet in port, especially on the West coast off Karachi but on the other hand this blockade denied our submarines the chance of drawing blood.





We bought 8 boats. I wish we had purchased 12 or 14 as those were days of Rupee-Rouble trade and the Soviets sold us at concessional prices. But sadly the Navy top brass and the bureaucracy did not fully grasp the impact of a submarine. All submariners were young 'uns and the top brass had grown up on the surface warships with some rigidness to appreciate this new weapon. But fortunately that changed in the 1980s as the young submariners climbed up the ranks. Arun Auditto, as a Rear Admiral became the first Flag Officer Submarines and in the 1990s Vijay Shekhawat became the Naval Chief.





Admiral Vijay Singh Shekhawat, the first submariner to become the Naval Chief





The Mother ship





Along with the Foxtrot class submarines we bought INS Amba a large submarine tender or mother ship. Mother ships are used to improve the effectiveness of submarines far from their naval base for example quietly operating out of the Nicobar islands. INS Amba provided all kinds of support to the submarines - fuel, fresh water, torpedoes, repair, provisions, electric supply, most importantly battery charging and so on. When alongside INS Amba submariners could sleep and live on board and have a bath! Photo Source $$





Soviet assistance



We have to hand it to the Russians. They not only gave us 8 brand new of their then best conventional subs but also helped us commission the entire infrastructure needed to operate and maintain a submarine force. In the 1960s and 1970s with their assistance we set up a training school, diving school, repair facilities, torpedo maintenance workshops, dockyard support for submarines, inducted the submarine rescue ship INS Nistar et al. The training they imparted was very detailed and thorough and after some resistance they worked with us to modify the training to include more practical time and to reflect the way our Navy is organized. India's geo-political situation and relationship with the Russians has changed and the Russians themselves have changed. But in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s they helped us like no other.





What makes submarines a feared and respected instrument of deterrence



The oceans are not a quiet place. They are full of noises - whale songs, ship propellers, oil rig noises, natural geological sounds and what have you. Thus there is an ambient sound in the oceans and if a submarine can make itself quiet enough to merge with this ambient hum it can become acoustically invisible. Diesel-electric submarines, when running on their batteries, especially below 5 knots (~9kmph), acoustically merge with the environment.



Electromagnetic waves are attenuated as they enter the oceans. Sound is the only form of energy that can be harnessed to locate or track a submarine. Sound travels about 4 times faster underwater than in the air (average of 1450 metres/second). Ocean temperature varies with depth in a non-linear way. Similarly salinity i.e. density varies with location, rainfall, proximity to river deltas etc. These two combined with currents and other oceanographic phenomena cause layers of sea water of differing density and temperature. These are called haloclines (density) and thermoclines (temperature). A sound wave hitting the intersection point of these layers refracts. These haloclines and thermoclines also create giant tunnels or ducts through which sound from a source (ie a sonar) refracts and travels sometimes horizontally and sometimes in vast three dimensional curves. Hence a surface ship could be beaming its sonar searching for the elusive submarine and not detect it sitting 300 metres right below due to this refraction.



Submariners spend a lifetime learning how to hide in these sonic shadows of the oceans and wait for the quarry. The oceans cover 70% of the surface a vast and relatively unexplored part of our world. And its geology and underwater phenomena is only imperfectly understood. It is in this nether world that submarines operate and hide in. So a hunter-killer submarine chooses when to attack, where to disappear and when and where to re-appear. While it is not as simple as that it underlines the fact that the deterrent impact of a submarine is as much psychological as physical.





Local production & Type 1500 -enter the Germans



Our quest for building our own submarines led us to first approach the Russians in the late 1970s but they did not have a modern mid-sized tear drop design that suited our specifications. So we evaluated options from Germany, Sweden, France, Netherlands and Italy in some detail. The designs from Sweden and Germany were by far the best. As the Germans, even after World War II, had the most experience designing and building submarines for export we went with them. The German design bureau, IKL, headed by the iconic Professor Ulrich Gabler had designed the Type 209 design platform which could then be modified or grown or shrunk to suit the individual needs of a naval customer. It was also to prove to be a most reliable design over the years. The Indian Navy had IKL 'grow' the Type 209 platform to the maximum size it could absorb and come up with the Type 1500 design for the Indian Navy. Two boats, built in Germany, INS Shishumar and INS Shankush commissioned in 1986 and four were to be built in India.



This IKL family of designs, in 5 variants, have become the most popular and widely built submarine family outside USA and Russia and have been employed by 14 navies across the world.





The Shishumar class or Type 1500 displaces 1850 tonnes submerged; tops 22 knots underwater; has a range of 8000 nautical miles (~14,800 kms) snorkeling at 8 knots and carries 14 torpedoes for use against both ships and submarines. By designation they are SSKs - ie diesel electric attack submarines. They are also called hunter killers as they can track and sink other submarines. Like most western submarines they are single hull vessels. Unique to any submarine in the world they carry their own escape capsule in which all 40 crew can be squeezed in and the capsule floats up to the surface through natural buoyancy. Another interesting feature is the ability to carry up to 24 mines in external strap-on saddles on the side for special mine laying missions without compromising on the torpedo load.





With German training and know-how we built two vessels INS Shalki (1992) and INS Shankul (1994). Two more were to have been built but budgetary pressures and a lack of understanding in our bureaucracy of the time and effort it takes to build national capabilities threw this opportunity away. The skilled work force and know-how developed at Mazagon Docks withered away for a decade and a half till the French Scorpene project commenced in 2009. The saving grace has been that the boats have served the Navy well and proved most reliable in service. The Germans especially Dr. Gabler and IKL worked very well with the Indian design engineers and submariners. The detailed documented history of our Navy is full of praise for Dr. Gabler's personal interest in the Type 1500 design and the thoroughness with which the Germans went to work on our project and helped us learn too. Sadly all that was lost for a couple hundred million $.





Kilo Class







To augment the size and effectiveness of the submarine arm the Indian Navy inducted 10 Kilo class (Russian designation Type 877EKM) submarines from Russia over 1986 to 1999. In the 2500 -3000 tonne class these are very very silent SSK hunter-killers. The EKM's are believed to be covered with sound absorbing ancheoic tiles that absorb the sonar waves of a enemy sonar thus reducing the range and quality of the enemy sonar's capability to detect and identify. In war games with the US Navy EKM's of the Indian Navy are believed to have tracked and homed in on US nuke subs for hours without being picked up themselves.



They are armed with 18 homing torpedoes for use against other ships or submerged submarines and can carry the Russian Novator land attack cruise missiles that go out to ~250 kms. The Kilo have the tear drop shaped hull which as you read in the first post gives outstanding hydrodynamic efficiency that leads to better maneuverability and longer endurance on batteries. They are powered by a main electric motor, a silent creep motor for patrolling and two auxiliary motors for maneuvering in shallow or confined waters and as an emergency 'get you home' back-up propulsion. The weapon systems, fire control computers, sonars, electronic counter measures suite and silent operations of these new boats are much appreciated by Indian submariners. Very capable boats but sadly two of them have been involved in accidents.





In 2013 INS Sindhurakshak exploded in Mumbai harbor killing 18 of its crew. The Board of enquiry concluded that torpedoes explosion following a fire could be the cause. At the time there were reports of old batteries which had not been replaced because the mandarins of the Ministry of Defence had been sitting on the files for years and that gasses built up from old and worn out batteries could have played a part. For 45 years the Navy has been sourcing batteries from locally manufactured Standard Batteries (now Exide) and it has worked perfectly. A new manufacturer sued the Navy for not buying batteries from them. So instead of taking a stand the MoD decided to stop all battery purchases till this was sorted out -the typical bureaucrat approach of take no decision and don't let anyone take one either. So while the commanding officer was court martialed and the Naval Chief resigned out of a sense of honour nothing happened to the worthies who sat on files.





INS Chakra (Charlie class)





In the early 1980s we took the unprecedented step of negotiating with the Soviets about leasing a nuclear powered submarine. Nothing remotely like that had ever been contemplated before by any of the then 4 builders & operators of nuclear boats i.e. USA, UK, France and USSR. This was a very bold step, deeply frowned upon by USA and UK but received positive support from the Soviets. The long process of negotiation and training started and the specialized berthing and maintenance facility was built at Vizag. In 1988 INS Chakra a Charlie class nuclear powered submarine entered commission with the Indian Navy. It is to the credit of the Russians who trained us and our submariners who learnt well that this sophisticated vessel was operated by us for 3 years without incident. Her first skipper was Captain RN Ganesh (later Vice Admiral) a quiet and deeply proficient officer who later also commanded INS Vikrant thus becoming a rare officer in any Navy to have commanded both a nuclear submarine and an aircraft carrier. The main role on INS Chakra was to teach us how to operate a nuke boat, build our confidence and give our surface navy the opportunity to better appreciate this formidable great white shark. With the collapse of USSR in 1991 sadly this lease ended.



So what are submarines used for



The two primary roles of a submarine force are to ensure sea denial by making it too dangerous for ships of the opposing forces to cross an area - a strait, a narrow, a coastal area astride an important port, a major sea lane. In the first role of sea denial the aim is to sink or better threaten to sink anf opposing ship or submarine the enters the area. The second primary role is to be the final arbiter of nuclear deterrence by providing a credible secondary strike capability after the enemy has destroyed your nuclear and economic assets. In addition to these two primary roles most submarines perform several secondary but important roles of surveillance, gathering signal intelligence from the opposing coast, laying mines and supporting covert commando operations. India lies astride the Straits of Malacca to the east and the Straits of Hormuz to the west two of the most widely transited narrows on the globe.



The second INS Chakra (Akula class)





In 2012 the Indian Navy leased, for 10 years, a newly built Akula II class nuclear powered attack submarine christened INS Chakra. The Akula II is the first Russian class of submarines that is quieter than the current American mainstay the Los Angles class. That is quite something as silence is a submarine's first line of both defense and offense. The Akula II is a 8000 tonne boat with a top speed of 35 knots or more and a patrol endurance of up to 90 days. With 40 torpedoes/ missiles she has the ability to sustain an engagement for long periods. The egg shaped object at the top of the after hydroplane contains a towed array sonar. This is a string of listening hydrophones trailing several kilometres behind a slow moving submarine. This enables it to listen without the ambient noise of the submarine and to listen up as well as down through the ocean searching for its target.



It is reported that the Indian Navy will go in for a second boat on lease in the near future.





Scorpene





To make up for the lost opportunity of building more Shishumar (Type 1500) class submarines and to augment the depletions in our submarine fleet the Govt of India after a detailed evaluation signed up to acquire 6 Scorpene class submarines to be built at Mazagon Docks, Mumbai under license from the French. The programme signed for in 2005 ran 4 years behind schedule under the UPA Govt but has now been put on track. The first of the Indian Scorpene's INS Kalvari launched in April 2015, has entered trials and is expected to join the fleet later in 2016. Appropriately she carries the name of India's first ever submarine.



The Scorpene's are 2000 tonne boats with very modern weapon suite including the ability to fire the submarine launched Exocet anti-ship missile. INS Kalvari carries a mix of 18 heavy weight torpedoes and missiles. At USD 500 million a piece these are expensive boats. The cost is a reflection of the complexity of the weapon systems, the silencing measures incorporated into the design and the degree of automation to reduce the crew complement. The Indian Navy may go in for a follow on of 6 more vessels maybe with an Air-Independent Propulsion system.



Like the Type 1500 and Kilo class the Scorpene's are SSK's.





BrahMos, supersonic cruise missile





BrahMos is an Indo-Russian multi-platform cruise missile designed for launch from ships, submarines, aircrafts and land vehicles. With a range of 290 kms and a flight speed of Mach 2.8 (~3400 kmph) it is one of the fastest cruise missiles in service. The missile carries a conventional warhead large enough to seriously disable a large warship. Guidance is by a combination of inertial navigation, active radar and satellite course correction. The BrahMos (named for the Brahmaputra + Moskava rivers) is based on the Russian P-800 Oniks missile and borrows the propulsion motor from it and adds a wholly new guidance system and the ability to interface with multiple platforms. The BrahMos is in service with the Navy as a surface weapon. The submarine launched version was first test fired in 2013. It fires from a vertical silo and is expected to join the fleet in the medium term future when new build subs with the vertical launch facility commission. BrahMos represents an outstanding success for Indo-Russian co-operation.





Sagarika, Short Range Ballistic Missile





The Sagarika (also designated K-15) is a short range ballistic missile developed by DRDO and expected to be armed with a nuclear warhead. The Sagarika is expected to equip INS Arihant India's soon to be commissioned nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine. According to news reports it has a range of 750 kms. Successful tests carried out are a milestone for DRDO. 750 kms is a little short for a ballistic missile but can fully do the job considering that the Russians or Americans are not our adversaries. A longer range version is under development but that will take a few more years.





INS Arihant - indigenous nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine





INS Arihant is the hallmark of the Indian Navy's long and steady journey towards indigenization and designing our own ships (and now submarines). The humble but well thought through start of this journey in the early 1960s is narrated as a photo essay on Team BHP at



INS Arihant has been designed at home with assistance from Russia. It is a nuclear powered ballistic missile carrying submarine i.e. a SSBN. It represents the first steps towards a sea based nuclear deterrent against our two nuclear armed neighbours. As an industrial achievement it is a hallmark of indigenous capability and the marriage of 3 complex engineering components - a submarine hull, a nuclear power plant and a ballistic missile system. As per news releases this 6000 tonne boat, which carries 12 Sagarika missiles, is undergoing extensive sea trials and weapon integration trials. A final commissioning date has not been announced but could be in the very near future. More on Arihant in a future post when the Navy releases data for public consumption and commissions the mighty ship, oops boat.



With the commissioning on INS Arihant India will become the 6th country to design, build and operate its own nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine. The Americans were the first in 1960, followed by the Russians in 1960 in a limited way and in 1967 with a proper SSBN, the British in 1967 (the British used an American nuclear plant and missile; really only the hull was their own design), the French in 1971 (the French went alone and developed a wholly home grown reactor and missile) and the Chinese in 1987 in a limited way and only from 2007 in a full fledged way.



With INS Arihant on one hand and the new carrier INS Vikrant under construction on the other the Indian Navy can justifiably be proud of its success at developing home grown designs. A second improved version INS Aridhaman is under construction. In order to ensure that at least one ballistic missile armed submarine is out in the oceans on any given day we need a squadron of 5 vessels.



http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/i...w/51169525.cms





LIFE ON BOARD AN INDIAN SUBMARINE



Life on board a submarine is tough. You are literally living and working inside a giant machine with space, fresh air and fresh water at a premium. Emphasis is on getting maximum weapons, sensors, batteries and machinery into the hull at the expense of personal space and comfort. This is compounded by the demands for perfection where a single mistake by one crew can spell death for all. Working in such a demanding environment often leads to a special bond amongst submariners that lasts a lifetime.





Command centre when operating underwater. The red colour is to protect the night vision of the captain's eyes looking through the periscope. White and red light are used to simulate day & night in the sealed world inside a submarine. Photo Source @@





Maintenance of torpedo tubes at sea. All submariners practice escaping through the torpedo tubes in darkness underwater. Those who have swum at sea in the night will have some idea of how disorienting and frightening this can be. Photo Source @@





Sleeping arrangements on a submarine. Most of the crew hot bunks - 3 men share 2 bunks. Here the men sleep amid the torpedo re-loads. (This photo is from an American sub. I could not get a photo from one of our own) Photo Source ##





In some missions submarines may have to surface. While it is possible to get away from surface warships a anti-submarine helicopter can be a nasty surprise. Here a sailor on board an Indian Kilo class submarine holds a shoulder launched SAM to even the odds versus a chopper. Photo Source @@





Maintenance of the batteries at sea. The engineer crawls in with 30" of space. Battery upkeep is a vital task for both operations and submarine safety. Photo Source @@





No matter how sophisticated a submarine and its electronics may get it shall always need a vast array of pumps and valves to operate the ballast tanks, trim tanks that use sea water and compressed air to dive and more importantly to surface. The panel watch keeper who controls all this in clockwork precision has to know the complex conglomeration of valves like the back of his hand. Correct operation in both sequence and timing are vital for the submarines safety each time it dives or surfaces. The watch keeper is trained to operate in total darkness. Note the disposable cotton banian-shorts he is wearing - this is the typical operating dress in the Indian Navy for submariners - no rank, no insignia - only mutual respect for each others professionalism. Photo Source @@





A Shishumar class submarine on the surface on way to her diving point. Note the periscope is up for use when dived. Photo Source @@



The Indian Submarine Arm has evolved combing the best of traditions of the Russians the Germans and our own into an operating philosophy suited to our environment. Over the years Admiral Gorshkov the father of the Soviet Navy did his utmost to help us develop our Submarine Arm. The same can be said of his successor Admiral Chernavin and the German Government and Navy. Our submarine fleet peaked in the early 1990s with 20 boats including the first INS Chakra. Since then Government apathy, the lost opportunity to continue building the Shishmar class Type 1500s and the delays in the Scorpene project meant a gradual erosion of force levels to 13 boats in 2011. Matters are looking up again with the new INS Chakra in commission, the new INS Kalvari expected on stream later this year and INS Arihant under trials.



Submariners all over the world share a unique bond which is that, when dived, the lives of all depend on each crew member doing his job absolutely right each time without fail.



Jai Hind.



References



Transition to Triumph, The Indian Navy 1965 to 1975 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 1999; Publisher Naval HQ & Lancers

Transition to Eminence, The Indian Navy 1976 to 1990 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 2005; Publisher Naval HQ & Lancers

Transition to Guardianship, The Indian Navy 1991 to 2000 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 2009; Publisher Naval HQ & Lancers

The Indian Navy, A Photo Essay by Rear Admiral Raja Menon (Retd), 2000; Publisher -Naval HQ; Photo Source @@

The Submarine by Thomas Parrish, 2004; Pengiun Books, USA

Modern Submarine Warfare by David Miller & John Jordan, 1987; Publisher Military Press, Salamander Books Ltd; Photo Source ##

Jane's Submarines by Robert Hutchinson, 2005; Published by Harper Collins

The Indian Navy, An Illustrated History, 1989; Published by Naval HQ



(Source of a photo is mentioned where it has been picked out of a book. The rest have come from the internet) The offensive weapon of choice for a submarine to take on another submarine or a surface vessel. A torpedo would carry its own sonar, active and/or passive with systems to home onto the target or even onto the propeller wake a ship leaves behind. Most torpedoes have a trailing wire to keep connected to the mother submarine for mid-course corrections and to insulate it from counter measures from the intended target. Torpedoes typically have top speeds in the 40 knot to 65 knot range and at a slower speed could have a range out to 25 to 60 kms. These are indicative estimates as real capabilities are rarely released. Today submarine launched torpedoes, with one Russian exception, are almost universally 533mm or 324mm in diameter, 20 to 25 feet long and broadly in the 2 tonne weight class. Torpedoes are powered, usually, by batteries but more recent ones from UK and Russia have a miniature gas turbine with the torpedo carrying its own oxygen cell for the combustion.In the early 1980s anti-ship missiles custom made for submarine launch entered service with the Americans and the French. Here a regular anti-ship sea-skimming missile is launched, from a torpedo tube, encapsulated in a buoyant water tight container. The container gets to the surface at which point the missiles turbo-jet/rocket motor fires and propels it out into open air and starts its sea skimming attack flight path.A Harpoon submarine launched anti-ship missile breaking surface. The top part of its water tight container is seen flying off. Sea-skimmers are notoriously difficult to detect. They fly fast (800 to 1000 kmph) and if attacking a target say 40 kms away the time from breaking surface to hitting the ship is in the 2 to 3 minute bracket giving the target precious little time to become aware that it is under attack, then figure out from where and by what and then take counter action. Their very small frontal radar signature helps sea skimmers hide in the radar clutter of the waves. Only a fully automated protection system of anti-missile radar-gun-missile combination can protect a ship from a sea skimmer.The sequence of operation of a submarine launched Harpoon sea skimmer. Current marks of the Harpoon have effective range in the 250kms to 280kms bracket. The Indian Navy deploys the aircraft launched version of the Harpoon.Mines are weapons of denial. Laying a bed of mines or simply stating that you have is a deterrent to shipping in that area or through that choke point. All submarines today can carry mines usually two in place of a torpedo. Mines are of various kinds - magnetic, acoustic, pressure, time based or even a combination. PNS Ghazi was laying a minefield on December 3rd, 1971 at the mouth of Vizag harbor when she blew up and sunk. You can read the full story in post #38 at http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/commer...an-navy-3.html Submarine launched cruise missiles are the larger longer legged cousins of the submarine launched anti-ship missile. The cruise missiles started off in earnest under the Soviets as long range weapons aimed at American carrier task forces. Today they have evolved as long range land attack missiles with, often, additional anti-ship capability. For land attack a cruise missile will use some form of terrain countour matching to guide it to its target. Cruise missiles fly low and often use small aircraft engines (instead of rocket motors) to get long legs - just to be clear a rocket motor carries its own fuel+oxygen source while a aircraft engine draws oxygen from the atmosphere thus leaving more space for fuel. Simply put in a missile, for a given weight & size, a rocket motor gives speed while an aircraft engine gives range. The most widely used cruise missile is the U.S. Tomahawk made famous in the first Gulf War in 1991. Submarine launched cruise missile users are USA, UK, Russia, India & South Korea only to best of my knowledge. The Indo-Russian Brahmos is the world's fastest cruise missile. The dividing line between cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles is getting blurred as technology advances.Submarine launched ballistic missiles have been of great strategic importance for the USA, Russia, and other nuclear powers as they can hide from reconnaissance satellites and fire their nuclear weapons with virtual impunity. This makes them immune to a first strike directed against nuclear forces, allowing each side to maintain the capability to launch a devastating retaliatory strike, even if all land-based missiles have been destroyed. This relieves each side of the necessity to adopt a launch on warning posture, with its grave attendant risk of accidental nuclear war. Ballistic missiles, carrying nuclear warheads, launch from underwater into near orbit altitudes and then descend down in a ballistic trajectory onto the target re-entering the atmosphere at several times the speed of sound. These missiles typically have ranges between 5000 kms to 12,000 kms, weigh between 40 to 60 tonnes and carry between 1 to 12 warheads apiece.Photo sequence of a Trident inter-continental ballistic missile being launched from a submarine. A - missile container hatch opens underwater. Submarine at periscope depth i.e. ~22 metres; B - missile just starts to emerge pushed out by compressed air; C - missile ascends slowly out of the submarine's wake. You can see the fin and raised periscope on the left; D - booster motor fires to push the missile clear into the air; E - main rocket fires and missile starts its ascent into near space; F - warheads re-entry onto target.The proud badge which submariners of the Indian Navy wear above their line of medals shows one dolphin on either side of the emblem of the Indian Republic - the lions atop the Ashoka Pillar.The Indian Navy was keen, in the 1950s, to form a submarine force albeit of one submarine for purposes of training and giving the surface warships some real practice at anti-submarine exercises. The political leadership especially Pandit Nehru was not keen on acquiring patently offensive weapons such as submarines and the British, then our only source of material, were not keen on providing one. Our attempts to buy a second hand vessel also came to nothing when all that the British would share was a World War II boat at the end of its life. In 1962 we finally proposed to buy a brand new Oberon class submarine, then the latest the British had at GBP 5 million provided the British Government would provide soft credit to ease our then tough forex situation. Training of the first batch of officers and sailors started in earnest in UK but the credit did not come through and the deal petered off. One good that came out was a thorough 12 month training of a core group with lots of sea time and practical watch keeping. Our Navy was so closely intertwined with the Royal Navy in those days and so many Indian personnel went to the UK for training that to their credit the British submariners treated our men as a full part of the crew and gave them real experience of handling a boat. After the 1962 debacle with China the Americans and the British were willing to sell us Army and Air Force equipment (to defend against the Chinese) but not submarines. In 1964 Harold Wilson the British PM sardonically told YB Chavan our Defence Minister, "I did not know that submarines climbed mountains".To cut a long story short the Soviets were willing to sell us their then latest diesel-electric submarine the Foxtrot class (Russian designation I-641). A quick review by the Indian Navy indicated that the Soviet subs were as good as the British Oberon and came at a price of Rs 3 crores a piece paid for in Rupees and not USD. YB Chavan and the then Naval Chief BS Soman moved fast and closed the deal in 1965. This was encouraged by the aggression by Pakistan in 1965 who had received their first sub PNS Ghazi from the Yanks and by Indonesia who encouraged by the Chinese were building a naval fleet, constantly intruding into the Andaman-Nicobar waters and had declared that the Indian ocean should be renamed the Indonesian ocean. Today when we are a stable democracy and recognized large economy all this sounds like a lifetime away. But such were the realities of geo-politics of newly independent countries with the over arching background of the cold war.For the sake of a small GBP 5 million of soft credit the British lost our custom altogether at least where subs are concerned. Lord Louis Mountbatten tried to intercede on our behalf as he realized this would push the Indian Navy into the Soviet sphere but to no avail. Why blame the British. Our bureaucracy is also capable of wearing horse blinkers and inflicting strategic blunders as we will see in a few paragraphs.Remember these events took place 8 to 17 years after independence. The glow of colonialism still hung over the world. The British wrongly assessed we had no choice but to do their bidding. And they were clear about not willing to aid an emerging leader of the non-aligned world with an offensive force like a submarine arm. We were hesitant to deal with the Soviets initially but gradually bridges of deep friendships got built between the Soviet & Indian Navies.Any one who has visited a Foxtrot cannot but fall in love with this simple and superbly designed boat. Very Soviet in character cramming more machinery, batteries and torpedoes in a given space than Western navies can dream of. In the Foxtrots you could not bathe for the entire duration of the patrol. Period. It was like living and working inside a machine. The Soviets to their credit gave us their most evolved and reliable design that worked well for our fledgling submarine force to learn their trade on. The Foxtrot's snorkeling range in real world terms means it could, if needed, sail from India to the North China coast, patrol there for 3 weeks and return back without refueling. I don't know if this was ever practiced. With the Foxtrots our surface Navy learnt how invisible a submarine can be when it can pick up a ships propeller noise 15 to 20kms away and often the ship cannot detect a submarine 3 kms away. That was true in 1967 and it is true today.In the December 1971 Indo-Pak war all 4 of the submarines then in commission were deployed off the coasts of West and East Pakistan. On the one hand their presence helped to bottle up the surviving Pakistani fleet in port, especially on the West coast off Karachi but on the other hand this blockade denied our submarines the chance of drawing blood.We bought 8 boats. I wish we had purchased 12 or 14 as those were days of Rupee-Rouble trade and the Soviets sold us at concessional prices. But sadly the Navy top brass and the bureaucracy did not fully grasp the impact of a submarine. All submariners were young 'uns and the top brass had grown up on the surface warships with some rigidness to appreciate this new weapon. But fortunately that changed in the 1980s as the young submariners climbed up the ranks. Arun Auditto, as a Rear Admiral became the first Flag Officer Submarines and in the 1990s Vijay Shekhawat became the Naval Chief.Admiral Vijay Singh Shekhawat, the first submariner to become the Naval ChiefAlong with the Foxtrot class submarines we boughta large submarine tender or mother ship. Mother ships are used to improve the effectiveness of submarines far from their naval base for example quietly operating out of the Nicobar islands.provided all kinds of support to the submarines - fuel, fresh water, torpedoes, repair, provisions, electric supply, most importantly battery charging and so on. When alongsidesubmariners could sleep and live on board and have a bath!We have to hand it to the Russians. They not only gave us 8 brand new of their then best conventional subs but also helped us commission the entire infrastructure needed to operate and maintain a submarine force. In the 1960s and 1970s with their assistance we set up a training school, diving school, repair facilities, torpedo maintenance workshops, dockyard support for submarines, inducted the submarine rescue shipet al. The training they imparted was very detailed and thorough and after some resistance they worked with us to modify the training to include more practical time and to reflect the way our Navy is organized. India's geo-political situation and relationship with the Russians has changed and the Russians themselves have changed. But in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s they helped us like no other.The oceans are not a quiet place. They are full of noises - whale songs, ship propellers, oil rig noises, natural geological sounds and what have you. Thus there is an ambient sound in the oceans and if a submarine can make itself quiet enough to merge with this ambient hum it can become acoustically invisible. Diesel-electric submarines, when running on their batteries, especially below 5 knots (~9kmph), acoustically merge with the environment.Electromagnetic waves are attenuated as they enter the oceans. Sound is the only form of energy that can be harnessed to locate or track a submarine. Sound travels about 4 times faster underwater than in the air (average of 1450 metres/second). Ocean temperature varies with depth in a non-linear way. Similarly salinity i.e. density varies with location, rainfall, proximity to river deltas etc. These two combined with currents and other oceanographic phenomena cause layers of sea water of differing density and temperature. These are called haloclines (density) and thermoclines (temperature). A sound wave hitting the intersection point of these layers refracts. These haloclines and thermoclines also create giant tunnels or ducts through which sound from a source (ie a sonar) refracts and travels sometimes horizontally and sometimes in vast three dimensional curves. Hence a surface ship could be beaming its sonar searching for the elusive submarine and not detect it sitting 300 metres right below due to this refraction.Submariners spend a lifetime learning how to hide in these sonic shadows of the oceans and wait for the quarry. The oceans cover 70% of the surface a vast and relatively unexplored part of our world. And its geology and underwater phenomena is only imperfectly understood. It is in this nether world that submarines operate and hide in. So a hunter-killer submarine chooses when to attack, where to disappear and when and where to re-appear. While it is not as simple as that it underlines the fact that the deterrent impact of a submarine is as much psychological as physical.Our quest for building our own submarines led us to first approach the Russians in the late 1970s but they did not have a modern mid-sized tear drop design that suited our specifications. So we evaluated options from Germany, Sweden, France, Netherlands and Italy in some detail. The designs from Sweden and Germany were by far the best. As the Germans, even after World War II, had the most experience designing and building submarines for export we went with them. The German design bureau, IKL, headed by the iconic Professor Ulrich Gabler had designed the Type 209 design platform which could then be modified or grown or shrunk to suit the individual needs of a naval customer. It was also to prove to be a most reliable design over the years. The Indian Navy had IKL 'grow' the Type 209 platform to the maximum size it could absorb and come up with the Type 1500 design for the Indian Navy. Two boats, built in Germany,andcommissioned in 1986 and four were to be built in India.This IKL family of designs, in 5 variants, have become the most popular and widely built submarine family outside USA and Russia and have been employed by 14 navies across the world.The Shishumar class or Type 1500 displaces 1850 tonnes submerged; tops 22 knots underwater; has a range of 8000 nautical miles (~14,800 kms) snorkeling at 8 knots and carries 14 torpedoes for use against both ships and submarines. By designation they are SSKs - ie diesel electric attack submarines. They are also called hunter killers as they can track and sink other submarines. Like most western submarines they are single hull vessels. Unique to any submarine in the world they carry their own escape capsule in which all 40 crew can be squeezed in and the capsule floats up to the surface through natural buoyancy. Another interesting feature is the ability to carry up to 24 mines in external strap-on saddles on the side for special mine laying missions without compromising on the torpedo load.With German training and know-how we built two vessels(1992) and(1994). Two more were to have been built but budgetary pressures and a lack of understanding in our bureaucracy of the time and effort it takes to build national capabilities threw this opportunity away. The skilled work force and know-how developed at Mazagon Docks withered away for a decade and a half till the French Scorpene project commenced in 2009. The saving grace has been that the boats have served the Navy well and proved most reliable in service. The Germans especially Dr. Gabler and IKL worked very well with the Indian design engineers and submariners. The detailed documented history of our Navy is full of praise for Dr. Gabler's personal interest in the Type 1500 design and the thoroughness with which the Germans went to work on our project and helped us learn too. Sadly all that was lost for a couple hundred million $.To augment the size and effectiveness of the submarine arm the Indian Navy inducted 10 Kilo class (Russian designation Type 877EKM) submarines from Russia over 1986 to 1999. In the 2500 -3000 tonne class these are very very silent SSK hunter-killers. The EKM's are believed to be covered with sound absorbing ancheoic tiles that absorb the sonar waves of a enemy sonar thus reducing the range and quality of the enemy sonar's capability to detect and identify. In war games with the US Navy EKM's of the Indian Navy are believed to have tracked and homed in on US nuke subs for hours without being picked up themselves.They are armed with 18 homing torpedoes for use against other ships or submerged submarines and can carry the Russian Novator land attack cruise missiles that go out to ~250 kms. The Kilo have the tear drop shaped hull which as you read in the first post gives outstanding hydrodynamic efficiency that leads to better maneuverability and longer endurance on batteries. They are powered by a main electric motor, a silent creep motor for patrolling and two auxiliary motors for maneuvering in shallow or confined waters and as an emergency 'get you home' back-up propulsion. The weapon systems, fire control computers, sonars, electronic counter measures suite and silent operations of these new boats are much appreciated by Indian submariners. Very capable boats but sadly two of them have been involved in accidents.In 2013exploded in Mumbai harbor killing 18 of its crew. The Board of enquiry concluded that torpedoes explosion following a fire could be the cause. At the time there were reports of old batteries which had not been replaced because the mandarins of the Ministry of Defence had been sitting on the files for years and that gasses built up from old and worn out batteries could have played a part. For 45 years the Navy has been sourcing batteries from locally manufactured Standard Batteries (now Exide) and it has worked perfectly. A new manufacturer sued the Navy for not buying batteries from them. So instead of taking a stand the MoD decided to stop all battery purchases till this was sorted out -the typical bureaucrat approach of take no decision and don't let anyone take one either. So while the commanding officer was court martialed and the Naval Chief resigned out of a sense of honour nothing happened to the worthies who sat on files.In the early 1980s we took the unprecedented step of negotiating with the Soviets about leasing a nuclear powered submarine. Nothing remotely like that had ever been contemplated before by any of the then 4 builders & operators of nuclear boats i.e. USA, UK, France and USSR. This was a very bold step, deeply frowned upon by USA and UK but received positive support from the Soviets. The long process of negotiation and training started and the specialized berthing and maintenance facility was built at Vizag. In 1988a Charlie class nuclear powered submarine entered commission with the Indian Navy. It is to the credit of the Russians who trained us and our submariners who learnt well that this sophisticated vessel was operated by us for 3 years without incident. Her first skipper was Captain RN Ganesh (later Vice Admiral) a quiet and deeply proficient officer who later also commanded INS Vikrant thus becoming a rare officer in any Navy to have commanded both a nuclear submarine and an aircraft carrier. The main role onwas to teach us how to operate a nuke boat, build our confidence and give our surface navy the opportunity to better appreciate this formidable great white shark. With the collapse of USSR in 1991 sadly this lease ended.The two primary roles of a submarine force are to ensure sea denial by making it too dangerous for ships of the opposing forces to cross an area - a strait, a narrow, a coastal area astride an important port, a major sea lane. In the first role of sea denial the aim is to sink or better threaten to sink anf opposing ship or submarine the enters the area. The second primary role is to be the final arbiter of nuclear deterrence by providing a credible secondary strike capability after the enemy has destroyed your nuclear and economic assets. In addition to these two primary roles most submarines perform several secondary but important roles of surveillance, gathering signal intelligence from the opposing coast, laying mines and supporting covert commando operations. India lies astride the Straits of Malacca to the east and the Straits of Hormuz to the west two of the most widely transited narrows on the globe.In 2012 the Indian Navy leased, for 10 years, a newly built Akula II class nuclear powered attack submarine christened. The Akula II is the first Russian class of submarines that is quieter than the current American mainstay the Los Angles class. That is quite something as silence is a submarine's first line of both defense and offense. The Akula II is a 8000 tonne boat with a top speed of 35 knots or more and a patrol endurance of up to 90 days. With 40 torpedoes/ missiles she has the ability to sustain an engagement for long periods. The egg shaped object at the top of the after hydroplane contains a towed array sonar. This is a string of listening hydrophones trailing several kilometres behind a slow moving submarine. This enables it to listen without the ambient noise of the submarine and to listen up as well as down through the ocean searching for its target.It is reported that the Indian Navy will go in for a second boat on lease in the near future.To make up for the lost opportunity of building more Shishumar (Type 1500) class submarines and to augment the depletions in our submarine fleet the Govt of India after a detailed evaluation signed up to acquire 6 Scorpene class submarines to be built at Mazagon Docks, Mumbai under license from the French. The programme signed for in 2005 ran 4 years behind schedule under the UPA Govt but has now been put on track. The first of the Indian Scorpene'slaunched in April 2015, has entered trials and is expected to join the fleet later in 2016. Appropriately she carries the name of India's first ever submarine.The Scorpene's are 2000 tonne boats with very modern weapon suite including the ability to fire the submarine launched Exocet anti-ship missile.carries a mix of 18 heavy weight torpedoes and missiles. At USD 500 million a piece these are expensive boats. The cost is a reflection of the complexity of the weapon systems, the silencing measures incorporated into the design and the degree of automation to reduce the crew complement. The Indian Navy may go in for a follow on of 6 more vessels maybe with an Air-Independent Propulsion system.Like the Type 1500 and Kilo class the Scorpene's are SSK's.BrahMos is an Indo-Russian multi-platform cruise missile designed for launch from ships, submarines, aircrafts and land vehicles. With a range of 290 kms and a flight speed of Mach 2.8 (~3400 kmph) it is one of the fastest cruise missiles in service. The missile carries a conventional warhead large enough to seriously disable a large warship. Guidance is by a combination of inertial navigation, active radar and satellite course correction. The BrahMos (named for the Brahmaputra + Moskava rivers) is based on the Russian P-800 Oniks missile and borrows the propulsion motor from it and adds a wholly new guidance system and the ability to interface with multiple platforms. The BrahMos is in service with the Navy as a surface weapon. The submarine launched version was first test fired in 2013. It fires from a vertical silo and is expected to join the fleet in the medium term future when new build subs with the vertical launch facility commission. BrahMos represents an outstanding success for Indo-Russian co-operation.The Sagarika (also designated K-15) is a short range ballistic missile developed by DRDO and expected to be armed with a nuclear warhead. The Sagarika is expected to equipIndia's soon to be commissioned nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine. According to news reports it has a range of 750 kms. Successful tests carried out are a milestone for DRDO. 750 kms is a little short for a ballistic missile but can fully do the job considering that the Russians or Americans are not our adversaries. A longer range version is under development but that will take a few more years.is the hallmark of the Indian Navy's long and steady journey towards indigenization and designing our own ships (and now submarines). The humble but well thought through start of this journey in the early 1960s is narrated as a photo essay on Team BHP at http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/commer...ahmaputra.html has been designed at home with assistance from Russia. It is a nuclear powered ballistic missile carrying submarine i.e. a SSBN. It represents the first steps towards a sea based nuclear deterrent against our two nuclear armed neighbours. As an industrial achievement it is a hallmark of indigenous capability and the marriage of 3 complex engineering components - a submarine hull, a nuclear power plant and a ballistic missile system. As per news releases this 6000 tonne boat, which carries 12 Sagarika missiles, is undergoing extensive sea trials and weapon integration trials. A final commissioning date has not been announced but could be in the very near future. More onin a future post when the Navy releases data for public consumption and commissions the mighty ship, oops boat.With the commissioning onIndia will become the 6th country to design, build and operate its own nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine. The Americans were the first in 1960, followed by the Russians in 1960 in a limited way and in 1967 with a proper SSBN, the British in 1967 (the British used an American nuclear plant and missile; really only the hull was their own design), the French in 1971 (the French went alone and developed a wholly home grown reactor and missile) and the Chinese in 1987 in a limited way and only from 2007 in a full fledged way.Withon one hand and the new carrierunder construction on the other the Indian Navy can justifiably be proud of its success at developing home grown designs. A second improved versionis under construction. In order to ensure that at least one ballistic missile armed submarine is out in the oceans on any given day we need a squadron of 5 vessels.Life on board a submarine is tough. You are literally living and working inside a giant machine with space, fresh air and fresh water at a premium. Emphasis is on getting maximum weapons, sensors, batteries and machinery into the hull at the expense of personal space and comfort. This is compounded by the demands for perfection where a single mistake by one crew can spell death for all. Working in such a demanding environment often leads to a special bond amongst submariners that lasts a lifetime.Command centre when operating underwater. The red colour is to protect the night vision of the captain's eyes looking through the periscope. White and red light are used to simulate day & night in the sealed world inside a submarine.Maintenance of torpedo tubes at sea. All submariners practice escaping through the torpedo tubes in darkness underwater. Those who have swum at sea in the night will have some idea of how disorienting and frightening this can be.Sleeping arrangements on a submarine. Most of the crew hot bunks - 3 men share 2 bunks. Here the men sleep amid the torpedo re-loads.In some missions submarines may have to surface. While it is possible to get away from surface warships a anti-submarine helicopter can be a nasty surprise. Here a sailor on board an Indian Kilo class submarine holds a shoulder launched SAM to even the odds versus a chopper.Maintenance of the batteries at sea. The engineer crawls in with 30" of space. Battery upkeep is a vital task for both operations and submarine safety.No matter how sophisticated a submarine and its electronics may get it shall always need a vast array of pumps and valves to operate the ballast tanks, trim tanks that use sea water and compressed air to dive and more importantly to surface. The panel watch keeper who controls all this in clockwork precision has to know the complex conglomeration of valves like the back of his hand. Correct operation in both sequence and timing are vital for the submarines safety each time it dives or surfaces. The watch keeper is trained to operate in total darkness. Note the disposable cotton banian-shorts he is wearing - this is the typical operating dress in the Indian Navy for submariners - no rank, no insignia - only mutual respect for each others professionalism.A Shishumar class submarine on the surface on way to her diving point. Note the periscope is up for use when dived.The Indian Submarine Arm has evolved combing the best of traditions of the Russians the Germans and our own into an operating philosophy suited to our environment. Over the years Admiral Gorshkov the father of the Soviet Navy did his utmost to help us develop our Submarine Arm. The same can be said of his successor Admiral Chernavin and the German Government and Navy. Our submarine fleet peaked in the early 1990s with 20 boats including the first INS Chakra. Since then Government apathy, the lost opportunity to continue building the Shishmar class Type 1500s and the delays in the Scorpene project meant a gradual erosion of force levels to 13 boats in 2011. Matters are looking up again with the newin commission, the newexpected on stream later this year andunder trials.Submariners all over the world share a unique bond which is that, when dived, the lives of all depend on each crew member doing his job absolutely right each time without fail.Jai Hind.Transition to Triumph, The Indian Navy 1965 to 1975 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 1999; Publisher Naval HQ & LancersTransition to Eminence, The Indian Navy 1976 to 1990 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 2005; Publisher Naval HQ & LancersTransition to Guardianship, The Indian Navy 1991 to 2000 by Vice Admiral GM Hiranandani, 2009; Publisher Naval HQ & LancersThe Indian Navy, A Photo Essay by Rear Admiral Raja Menon (Retd), 2000; Publisher -Naval HQ; Photo Source @@The Submarine by Thomas Parrish, 2004; Pengiun Books, USAModern Submarine Warfare by David Miller & John Jordan, 1987; Publisher Military Press, Salamander Books Ltd; Photo Source ##Jane's Submarines by Robert Hutchinson, 2005; Published by Harper CollinsThe Indian Navy, An Illustrated History, 1989; Published by Naval HQ Last edited by V.Narayan : 27th March 2016 at 14:51 . Reason: final touches
Microsoft India has announced the India launch of SQL Server 2016, the data platform built with advanced predictive analytics capabilities. This is the first data platform to be born-of the cloud, designed to enable businesses to transform themselves with cloud, data and intelligence. SQL Server 2016 is Microsofts biggest leap into the future of data platform. It helps businesses with intelligence-based decision making, giving them a strong competitive advantage.

Karan Bajwa, Managing Director Microsoft Corporation India, said, Data is the new electricity for businesses today. It gives our customers the opportunity to catapult their growth. Microsofts SQL Server 2016 is built for this data driven world  customer tested and battle ready.

SQL 2016 supports encrypted query processing capabilities for advanced analytics, machine learning, mobile business intelligence, and data integration that addresses the security concerns of customers. It is today the worlds only relational database to be born cloud-first with the majority of features first deployed and tested on Azure, he added.

Analyst firm IDC projects that the digital universe will reach 40 zettabytes (ZB) by 2020 and will double every two years between now and 2020. This combined with cloud economics offering cost-effective compute capabilities is providing businesses an unprecedented ability to analyze and derive deep insights from this data, in real-time.

Elaborating on the business benefits and enhanced customer satisfaction, Munish Mittal, Group Head-IT & CIO, HDFC Bank said, At HDFC Bank, customer convenience is at the core of all our endeavor. To enable access and convenience to our customers for our products and services across all platforms, we implement cutting edge technology solutions across the full spectrum of digital enterprise. Our Digital application platform and CRM systems uses Microsoft technology as the data platform. SQL Server not only offers good performance but also helps us in scaling up our systems at very optimal cost.

SQL Server 2016 is powered by unique cloud capabilities that enable customers to deploy hybrid architectures that partition data workloads across on-premises and cloud based systems to help customers gradually move to the cloud, increase agility of their processes and save costs.

As per Gartners Magic Quadrants, Microsoft is a leader in analytics, business intelligence, databases, data warehouse and data management. With thousands of customers across the world, SQL has almost 100 billion queries per day, with almost 400 million database log-ins per day.

Technuter.com News Service
From how we interact with our phones to how we monitor our health, wearable technologies have changed the daily lives of people from Cupertino to Chongqing. As more and more people adopt these devices, the possibilities for how they interact with the world around them are practically limitless.

The connection between what you wear and what you drive is getting stronger with help from Fords new wearables research laboratory. Ford scientists and engineers are working to integrate wearable devices and vehicles to enable driver-assist technologies to be more aware of the driver behind the wheel  particularly when that driver is stressed or sleepy.

As more consumers embrace smart watches, glasses and fitness bands, we hope to develop future applications that work with those devices to enhance in-car functionality and driver awareness, said Gary Strumolo, global manager for vehicle design and infotronics, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering.

Researchers at the new Automotive Wearables Experience laboratory housed in the Ford Research and Innovation Center in Dearborn, Michigan, are examining the potential to link vital health information to in-vehicle technologies, including lane-keeping assist and Blind Spot Information System.

Lane-keeping assist, for instance, could become more sensitive if a smart watch sends data to the vehicle that infers the driver didnt get enough sleep the previous night. Or, if a drivers heart rate increases as traffic intensifies, the vehicles adaptive cruise control could increase the distance between vehicles  giving the driver some breathing room.

Wearable technology integrated with the vehicle allows for more accurate biometric data to stream continuously and alert active driver-assist systems to become more sensitive if the driver shows signs of compromised health or awareness, said Strumolo.

Semi-autonomous driving applications

The ability to measure wakefulness and health data including blood pressure, blood glucose and heart rate via wearable technology also could benefit semi-autonomous driving features.

The wearables lab is examining ways to signal a driver using semi-autonomous features of the potential need to take driving control back from the vehicle. If there were road construction or an accident ahead, a situation requiring a human at the wheel, the technology could send a wrist vibration or chimes, or even activate flashing lights on the dash.

Wearable innovations are part of Ford Smart Mobility  the companys plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience, and data and analytics.

Customer experience

A customer-focused experiment the lab is working on involves augmented reality optics, or smart glasses, and the dealership experience. Customers would wear smart glasses as they guide themselves through a showroom, seeing additional information about vehicles theyre interested in. Looking through glasses could offer a wide range of features from technical specifications to a virtual test drive.

The potential in this space is endless, said Strumolo. Were evaluating many different wearable devices and applications  everything from helping to keep Ford drivers healthier and more aware behind the wheel to offering an enhanced customer experience at our dealerships.

Technuter.com News Service
Nexgen Conferences, one of Indias leading conferences & B2B events organizer announces the first edition of LTE Innovation Summit, an international Conference cum exhibition. The registration is now open and participants can register themselves by visiting the summits website www.ltesummit.in. This summit will be held on 8th April 2016 at The Lalit in Mumbai.

LTE Innovation Summit is the largest event devoted to the needs of telecom professionals, which will bring together the industrys most innovative leaders to discuss the hottest trends and technologies impacting 4G LTE Services in the country. The Summit will host more than 250 industry professionals which include industry thought leaders, business leaders and policymakers.

According to Anjani Kumar Singh, CEO of Nexgen Conferences, The level of enthusiasm we have received from speakers, sponsors and attendees for the LTE Innovation summit is very encouraging. As the Indian telecom industry enters into the 4G era, this summit will provide a path-breaking platform for industry professionals to come together and deliberate, which will be instrumental for addressing the key issues and charting out new directions for making it a success. The speakers at the summit represent many important facets of LTE which include  government, industry, and operators etc.

Deployment and growth of 4G technology in India is not easy due to several challenges faced by the telecommunication industry. The challenges may be in the areas like Security, backhaul, Multiple Frequencies, Voice over LTE, Quality of Service, Application/content, Chipset compatibility, and spreading LTE, among others. With 4G, customers generally tend to watch online videos while they are moving or traveling, which causes more consumption of online videos. As more and more customers uses HD videos, streaming of HD videos is going to put a huge stress on the LTE network for which operators need to be prepared. For 4G to succeed in India, Operators will have to provide high transfer rates over longer distances and efficient bandwidth.

The widespread growth of the 4G technology in India will be driven by set of new services which will be made useful for the customers such as accessing the internet and video anywhere, any time and in any places with global roaming and full-fledged support for all other multimedia applications.

New genre of 4G smartphones in the country promises to push internet accessibility at an unprecedented level  in terms of high speed affordable rate and usage of content. According to a recent report from the IAMAI and KPMG, India is expected to have 236 million mobile internet users by this year and 314 million by 2017. Out of this figure, 60% are consuming internet on their handsets, tablets, etc. Although 4G deployments are at an early stage at present in India, mobile broadband networks are expected to make up 42 percent of all mobile connections in the country by 2020.

Ciscos VNI Mobile Forecast 2015 -2020 report predicts that India will have a record making 702 million smartphone users by 2020. The growth in the smartphone market is mainly due to the rising demand for affordable 4G smartphones. Telecom operators in India have increased the pace of their 4G rollouts. With operators like Reliance Jio, Airtel were already in the run of launching 4G services, other players like Vodafone and Idea have stepped up their games and joining the club of launching 4G in various circles.

LTE Innovation Summit has been supported and sponsored by well-known organizations like Accenture, Juniper Networks, Accedian, Rosenberger, Paloalto Networks, Anritsu, Empirix, Telrad, Fortinet, Ingram Micro, Viavi, COAI, Broadband Forum and Wireless Broadband Alliance.
For most US tech organizations, getting a product launched in China is no easy feat. Adhering to the country's strict censorship laws often means the onus is on a company to filter out any 'sensitive' content from its services.

Certain US firms, such as Apple, reportedly kowtow to the Chinese government by censoring their services in the country. Google, on the other hand, pulled out of China completely in 2010 after the company said it was no longer comfortable filtering its search results.

Now, Microsoft has created a version of Windows 10 for use in Chinese governmental offices and state-owned enterprises, one which includes "more management and security controls."

Called Windows 10 Zhuangongban, or Windows 10 Specially-provided Edition, this specialized version of the operating system was created by Microsoft in collaboration with Chinese state-run technology and defense company CETC. In addition to the extra "security" features, many of the services and apps found in the consumer version of Windows 10 have been removed, likely replaced by the Chinese-approved versions.

Microsoft announced its intentions to create a region-specific Windows 10 back in December. The company's China CEO, Ralph Haupter, told Chinese magazine Caixin that the first version of the software was complete. He didn't precisely say how this edition differed from the traditional Windows 10, but given China's fondness for surveillance, these "security controls" will probably mean more ways for the country's government to keep a close watch on users.

Microsoft lost a lot of money when Windows 8 was banned from Chinese government PCs back in 2014. Creating a version of the OS specifically for the region - one that has the backing of the country's rulers and runs Windows programs - will no doubt prove lucrative for the company.
After being in a Roomba for so long, the 8-month-old kitten Cassidy is now one step closer to walking and jumping like other normal cats as he will soon have a new pair of high-tech bionic prosthetic legs, making him the "Blade Runner of Cats."

Cassidy was found and rescued by Shelly Roche in Aldergrove last year where there are no less than 200 feral cats. The cat lost its rear legs due to wounds in his stumps caused by E. coli. Roche also runs Tiny Kittens, a cat rescue organization in Langley.

"[The property owner] saw Cassidy walking around kind of like a reverse velociraptor with his little bum up in the air," said Roche.

This cat is also known from his several videos over the Internet where he rides a custom cat-wheelchair and a Roomba. He uses Roomba to roam around and go to his favorite spots.

This black-and-white cat just underwent the first step of procedure before he gets his bionic prosthetic legs. On Wednesday, Cassidy was injected with Botox in his hind legs to relax the muscles before placing the blades on his back limbs.

"This will be the first cat in the world to be fitted with prosthetic blades, so our hope today was just the final step before that surgery can be performed," said Dr. Mike Higgins, a neurologist with Canada West Veterinary Specialists.

Dr. Higgins used a special equipment called EMG or Electromyogram in detecting which muscles will benefit from the Botox. Botox aims to preserve Cassidy's legs before heading to North Carolina for the bionic prosthetic leg implant.

The Bionic Prosthetic Legs

Prosthetic legs are already done to dogs, and this is the first time that it will be used for cats.

"Definitely this is cutting-edge technology," said Higgins.

He added that this technology used by humans like MRI and CAT scans had also been a standard operating procedure in veterinary care. He predicts that around 10 to 15 years, prostheses will be more available for paralyzed and malformed animals.

Another expert is already working for the 3D printed model of Cassidy's bionic prosthetic legs.

The procedure of placing the bionic legs on Cassidy will be done in North Carolina State University, Raleigh in a few months time.

Cost Of The Procedure

According Roche, she had already spent almost $10,000 for the initial procedure and wasn't sure of the final cost. What she is aware of is that it takes about $20,000 per leg on the procedure to be done in NC State University.

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home Tech OnePlus 3 leaked photo and specs: New device will be called OnePlus A3000?

A new photo that appears to be the new OnePlus 3 device has emerged online and fans are pretty excited about it.

The much-awaited new line of the OnePlus flagship smartphone has appeared on the benchmark website, AnTuTu. Fans have finally seen the product on its actuality after numerous rumors of its development and release date have surfaced all over the Internet for quite some time now.

According to a report by Gizmo China, the leaked image of the said device made an appearance on Friday, along with its potential list of specs.

The tech news outlet reveals that the upcoming OnePlus line is going to be called OnePlus A3000 and not OnePlus 3. It will be carrying impressive specs under the hood headed by Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 820 processor, along with 4 GB of RAM for better functionality during multitasking.

The latest smartphone will boast a 5.5-inch Full HD display and a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels.

OnePlus is said to be planning on bringing the Adreno 530 GPU on the new model, which will certainly make it compete with the latest releases of some major smartphone manufacturers. It also carries a 32 GB internal storage capacity; unfortunately, there is still no information if it will be expandable or not. Nevertheless, fans are hopeful that the company will include a microSD slot somewhere on the device.

Aside from its excellent specs under the hood, the device is said to run on Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow; however, there are reports that OnePlus is pre-loading it with a customized OxygenOS platform.

What's more impressive about the OnePlus A3000 is its camera features. According to the benchmark results, the new model will sport a 16 MP rear shooter and an 8 MP selfie snapper that would make anybody want it even more.

As of the moment, OnePlus has yet to provide any official statement regarding the leaked information about their latest flagship smartphone. However, many believe that it is only a matter of time before the company announces the official release date.
Japanese scientists on Friday began testing its highly-sensitive underground telescope to detect gravitational waves, more than a month after astronomers announced the discovery of these ripples in space-time.

The test run of the KAGRA telescope will help astronomers in Japan gain understanding of the universe, especially about colliding black holes and supernova explosions. The test run is expected to last until March 31.

After the March test run, Japan will again check the telescope's performance in April. Afterwards, Japanese scientists plan to make modifications to boost the telescope's sensitivity and finally begin full-fledged operations in 2017.

Complementing Research In The West

The country's efforts to detect gravitational waves is led by University of Tokyo professor Takaaki Kajita, a recipient of last year's Nobel Prize in Physics alongside Arthur B. McDonald.

"We want to join the international network of gravitational wave observation as soon as possible," said Kajita.

University of Tokyo Assistant Professor Osamu Miyakawa, who is also involved with the project, hopes that KAGRA will be upgraded into an observation apparatus which ranks with the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) detectors in the United States.

KAGRA is installed within an L-shaped tunnel with each arm extending 1.8 miles, located more than 656 feet underground at the Kamioka mine site to minimize seismic noise. The mine site is also known as a major hub of neutrino research.

The KAGRA facility makes use of laser beams that move back and forth inside vacuum pipes, which contain mirrors placed at each end to detect very small waves.

KAGRA is more suited to detect certain types of gravitational waves, so Japanese scientists hope it will help discover a new astronomical phenomenon.

Ripples In The Fabric Of Space-Time

From awakening the hope for time travel to the possible generation of advanced technologies, the discovery of gravitational waves in September 2015 had proved that Albert Einstein was right.

Members of the team that detected the gravitational waves believe it can allow for the development of spin-off technologies. Although scientists did not say the exact kind of tech, many had referenced to Einstein's theory of relativity - what was once abstract is now used in GPS measurements.

Additionally, gravitational wave astronomy is a new tool for studying the cosmos, experts said.

"The window to this new world of gravitational waves has just been cracked open," said David Shoemaker, project leader of advanced LIGO.

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Due to recent terrorist attacks in Brussels' airport and subway station, Belgian officials have beefed up the security measures in their nuclear facilities. The government fears that the country's nuclear plants might be targeted by the Islamic State. According to investigations, the terrorist might attack, sabotage or infiltrate the plant to gain access to nuclear materials.

After the attack, all nonessential personnel with access to Tihange and Doel power plants were sent home and their security badges were revoked. Military was also deployed and security was heightened at both sites.

The Belgian government had already positioned 140 soldiers to guard the nuclear plants.

A surveillance footage of a Belgian official was also found in the apartment of Mohamed Bakkali who was a suspect of last years' Paris attack. The video  which was shot through a hidden camera in a bush  showed the coming in and out of a Belgian official in his home in the Flanders region.

Belgian officials have not yet released a statement whether the video poses a threat to anyone or to a nuclear plant. However, investigators are still looking if Bakkali is associated with the El Bakraoui brothers  Ibrahim El Bakraoui and Khalid El Bakraoui. The El Bakraoui brothers were the suicide bombers in the recent bombing at the airport and metro station in Brussels which claimed 31 lives.

"There is no element today that suggests a concrete threat to nuclear sites," said Sebastien Berg, spokesman for Belgium's Federal Agency for Nuclear Control. "We can't ignore the terrorist threat," he added.

Berg added that the fears at the nuclear plants are of "an accident in which someone explodes a bomb inside the plant, [and] the other danger is that they fly something into the plant from the outside," that could cause stoppage of the used fuel's cooling process, which could turn down the plant.

Looking at a perspective that the terrorist might obtain radioactive materials from nuclear plants and try to make it into nuclear fission bombs is far-fetched, experts said. Creating dirty bomb from the radioactive wastes released from the plants is implausible since the wastes are so toxic that people trying to steal it would probably get sick or killed.

Belgium already had a long track record of minor breaches in their nuclear facilities. In 2013, the Belgian nuclear agency's system was hacked and shut down briefly and two individuals managed to scale the fence of research reactor in the municipality of Mol to steal an equipment.

The major breaching concern initially happened in 2012 where two people resigned from the nuclear plant in Doel and joined the jihadist group in Syria. One of them died in a Syrian attack while the other was freed from prison last year, convicted of terror-related offense.

"[Islamic State] has an apocalyptic ideology and believes there is going to be a final war with the United States and would need very powerful weapons to do so," said Matthew Bunn, a nuclear security specialist at Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Photo: IAEA Imagebank | Flickr

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A lot of great things are coming out of WonderCon, including a new official trailer for the Amazon reboot "Thunderbirds Are Go."

A reimagining of "Thunderbirds," a 50-year-old classic, "Thunderbirds Are Go" is set in 2060. A mix of live-action model sets and CGI, the show will follow the Tracy brothers (Alan, Gordon, Virgil, John and Scott) as they go on rescue missions around the world as the organization International Rescue (IR). They're also hot on the tail of The Hood, the man responsible for a crash supposedly involving their father, Jeff Tracy, an ex-astronaut.

To carry out their life-saving missions, the Tracy brothers use five machines called Thunderbirds: "Thunderbird 1," a rocket plane piloted by First Responder Scott Tracy; "Thunderbird 2," an auxiliary equipment transporter handled by the logistics, heavy lifting and demolition expert Virgil Tracy; "Thunderbird 3," used by Astronaut Alan Tracy for space rescues; "Thunderbird 4" for underwater search and rescue missions carried out by Aquanaut Gordon Tracy; and "Thunderbird 5," a communications and logistics satellite hub managed by Space Command Communicator and Dispatcher John Tracy.

Rasmus Hardiker was cast as Alan and Scott Tracy while Thomas Brodie-Sangster gave life to John Tracy and David Menkin voiced Virgil and Gordon Tracy. They will be joined by Sandra Dickinson (Grandma Tracy), Kayvan Novak (Brains), David Graham (IR agent Parker), Andres Williams (The Hood) and Rosamund Pike (Lady Penelope).

Earlier in February, it was announced that Amazon had ordered four seasons of the show, each made up of 13 episodes. The first two seasons of "Thunderbirds Are Go" have already aired in the UK through ITV.

In the U.S., season one will premiere on April 22 via Amazon Prime Video, following "Ring of Fire" Parts 1 and 2, a one-hour special of season one's first two episodes airing April 15. Prime Video in the UK will be streaming "Thunderbirds Are Go" after its U.S. release under a second-window rights deal.

Watch the new trailer for "Thunderbirds Are Go" below!

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Governments, corporations and scientists look forward to the development of a working quantum computer for a range of purposes such as from cracking passwords to predicting weather events.

Building such a powerful computer, however, is currently hampered by a range of obstacles that scientists have yet to overcome.

One of these obstacles is the need to reduce the number of resources required to efficiently implement processing circuits. A new breakthrough with a new circuit though may bring quantum computing closer to reality.

Researchers from Australia have developed a computer chip that can overcome one of the main obstacles that hamper the development of quantum computers.

The quantum Fredkin gate, as it is called, used to be very complex to build but the researchers finally found a means to simply the process by making quantum logic gates, the building blocks of quantum computing, bigger.

Raj Patel, from Griffith's Centre for Quantum Dynamics explained that just like building a large wall with small bricks, large quantum circuits would need many logical gates for to work.

"If larger bricks are used, the same wall could be built with far fewer bricks," Patel said.

The researchers said that the method could hopefully make the creation of quantum computer more possible and unlock the potentials that come with advanced computers.

Patel said that they managed to build larger quantum circuits in a more direct manner sans the need for small logic gates.

Small and medium scale quantum computers cannot be produced at the moment because of the need to integrate many of these gates into the circuits. The Fredkin gate, for instance, where two quantum bits are swapped or changed depending on a third value, is only a part of a quantum computer circuit.

Building one Fredkin gate needs five logic operations. Once the necessary amount of Fredkin gates is added, the circuit will have far too many components for the circuit to be made.

Using particles of light, the researchers were able to construct Fredkin gates with simplified number of required logic operations.

"The technique we use allows one to add a control operation to a black-box unitary, something that is impossible in the standard circuit model," the researchers wrote in their study, which was published in Science Advances on March 25.

"Our experiment represents the first use of this technique to control a two-qubit operation and paves the way for larger controlled circuits to be realized efficiently."

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Why do men die earlier than women? It turns out that when it comes to talking to their doctors about their health, male patients like to do the Marlboro Man.

Two related studies by Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences researchers point out that the inherent beliefs of men on masculinity may compel them to be less honest to their doctors, thereby ignoring symptoms and recommendations or delaying treatment until it is too late.

In the study reported in Preventive Medicine, Diana Sanchez, an associate professor of psychology in the School of Arts and Sciences, and doctoral student Mary Himmelstein conducted two similar experiments among 500 men including 250 male undergraduates of a public university who were interviewed in clinical exam rooms by pre-medical students wearing white lab coats. All of the male participants filled out an online questionnaire assessing their perception on masculinity and differences of attributes among men and women.

The results suggested an inverse relationship between beliefs in masculinity and honesty  that is, they are more likely to hide symptoms the higher they score in toughness. This is understandable since most men grow up being told they have to be brave and self-reliant.

Interestingly, though, while men prefer male doctors, they tend to be more honest among female doctors probably because they can show their vulnerability without losing their machismo.

But do women also exhibit the same characteristics? The researchers then conducted a similar experiment among 193 university students including 105 women and 298 regular people, of which half were females.

While the outcome, now published in Journal of Health Psychology, remains the same among men, women who share the same beliefs also tend to lie to their doctors about their health.

"Men can expect to die five years earlier than women, and physiological differences don't explain that difference," said Diana Sanchez. Thus, most probably, the "I am macho" idea, which can be present in more men and women, provides the answer.

Nevertheless, the researchers stress that this belief is more dangerous among men.

"Men have a cultural script that tells them they should be brave, self-reliant and tough. Women don't have that script, so there isn't any cultural message telling them that, to be real women, they should not make too much of illnesses and symptoms," said Himmelstein.

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Several tech companies have devised a novel approach to tackling Uniloc's Patent '216.

By resorting to the Patent Trademark and Appeals Board (PTAB), instead of the federal courts, several tech companies have gained a favorable ruling in a case involving the use of a product activation software.

Among the companies involved in the successful case are Sega of America, Ubisoft, Cambium Learning, and other online distributors.

Local lawyers from Overland Park and Irvine, California have challenged the case by focusing on the way Patent '216 was lodged in the U.S. Uniloc originally filed the patent for the product in Australia in September 1992 and used existing intellectual property ad copyright laws to claim priority for its U.S. filing date, based on the Australian filing date. The procedure used is called the "inter partes review."

The PTAB ruled in favor of the tech companies opposing Uniloc, but this does not mean that the battle is over. Uniloc may still challenge PTAB's ruling, which goes against the decisions by federal courts.

"The PTAB decision is inconsistent with two prior rulings by the Federal Circuit, and with the opinions of seven patent examiners who previously upheld the validity of the '216 patent in multiple re-examinations," said Sean Burdick, president of Uniloc USA. "[T]he PTAB gave undue credibility to a lone expert opinion that was authored by petitioners' counsel."

U.S. Patent No. 5,490,216 held by Uniloc has been used for quite some time to sue major software and tech companies such as Microsoft, Mojang, and Electronic Arts into paying millions of dollars in damages.

In the case of Microsoft, the case led to damages amounting to $388 million dollars, a verdict that was appealed by the company, but was later upheld on appeal and eventually settled for an undisclosed sum.

Patent '216 involves the use of trial based software registration system, which requires potential buyers to enter codes that will allow them to test the software in trial mode before purchase. The system lets the manufacturer to offer software product and applications, while protecting its intellectual property rights at the same time.

Photo: Chris Potter | Flickr

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Ross Martin has received a surprise delivery after signing up for the Oculus Rift VR last January. Palmer Luckey, one of Oculus Rift VR founders, personally brought the first ever package and delivered it to Oculus' very first customer.

On March 26, after several flight delays, and wearing a bright red Hawaiian shirt, Luckey reached Anchorage, Alaska to deliver the package to the first person who signed up for the device.

Signed by Palmer Luckey and other founders of the Oculus Rift, the very first package was preordered by Ross Martin way back in January.

"I've been working on this for so long and you're the first person to actually get one, so it's kinda like me taking all this work and then handing it off to you. So you have to make sure you have fun with it or something," Luckey says, while handing over the console to Martin.

The news broke as Facebook posted a live stream of Luckey conducting the delivery. The video, lasting a little more than five minutes, shows Martin leading Luckey inside an office where Luckey helped Martin unbox the device. The clip, however, did not show Martin plugging the device and actually using it because Martin's personal computer was at home.

Ross Martin is a software developer working for Axiom Data Science. Martin says he plans on playing Eve: Valkyrie on the Oculus Rift with it and is also a fan of first person shooter games.

"We are both big gamers, and we were both homeschooled as kids. The biggest difference is that I grew up with surfboards while he grew up with sled dogs," says Luckey, seeing that he and Martin share certain similarities.

The Oculus Rift was born as a Kickstarter project in August 2012. After gaining much public interest, the project was bought by Facebook for $2 billion in 2014. Not surprisingly, the live stream and video showing the Oculus Rift's delivery to Martin was first posted in Facebook and has since gained more than 75,000 views in less than 14 hours from posting. The initial console from the initial Kickstarter project had since been released, but the console delivered by Luckey to Martin is the first commercially produced product after the Kickstarter release.

The Oculus Rift retails for $599 and is available at its website. Preorders made in January will be available on the last week of March while current orders made today will be available in July.

Personally delivering the first Rift to Alaska! Posted by Palmer Freeman Luckey on Saturday, March 26, 2016

Photo: Rafael Valentim | Flickr

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If Earth were struck by a superflare  extremely strong explosions on the surface of stars, with energies ten thousand times higher than solar flares  life on the planet could be wiped out.

Scientists say it is least likely to happen now, but evidence suggests that it may have already occurred thousands of years ago.

Superflares That May Have Hit Earth

Christoffer Karoff, a researcher from Aarhus University, Denmark, said small superflares may have already hit Earth thousands of years ago. Evidence from tree rings indicate that the sun may have produced a small superflare in AD 775, and another in AD 993.

Strangely large quantities of the radioactive isotope 14C were discovered to have formed in Earth's atmosphere. This isotope is formed when cosmic ray particles enter our planet's atmosphere, originating from the Milky Way or from energetic solar protons that formed in connection with solar eruptions.

Data from China's Guo Shou Jing telescope, which Karoff and his colleagues used for their study, supports the theory that the event in AD 775 may have been a small superflare.

With that, our sun should experience a small superflare every millennium or 1,000 years, the study said.

Examining The Past

The strongest recorded solar storm our planet has encountered is known as the "Carrington event," in which dark spots on the sun's surface lit up and shone brightly. The particles from this solar eruption had reached Earth, causing telegraph systems across the world to go haywire.

Four years ago, superflares were first detected by astronomers. Back then, experts had yet to understand the mechanism behind the powerful event.

Now, they believe superflares would theoretically be thousands-fold stronger than solar flares. Even more resonant than the Carrington event.

Karoff said superflares are likely formed in the same process solar flares develop.

Although Karoff and his colleagues said our sun is least likely to create a superflare because its magnetic field is not powerful enough, their analysis of other stars suggest that it is not impossible.

"We certainly did not expect to find superflare stars with magnetic fields as week as the magnetic fields on the sun," said Karoff. "This opens the possibility that the sun could generate a superflare  a very frightening thought."

Still, researchers said it is no cause for immediate worry or concern. It is also likely that we would see unprecedented sunspot activity beforehand as a forewarning.

The team's findings are published in the journal Nature Communications.

Photo : NASA Goddard Space Flight Center | Flickr

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A new investigation shows that William Shakespeare's skull may be missing. The revelation support claims made more than a century ago about the contents of the poet's grave in the town of Stratford-upon-Avon in England, but this is not the only case of stolen body parts.

The findings of the investigation came a month before the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death. This gives benefit to claims that his skull was stolen by robbers in 1794, when the practice was rampant among famous graves.

A British documentary titled, "Secret History: Shakespeare's Tomb," highlights some of the group's findings, including evidence of the missing head.

Radar Scan Shows Missing Skull

The team used a non-invasive ground-penetrating radar device to examine the writer's grave. The body was buried about 3 feet deep and had been wrapped simply with a blanket instead of being placed in a coffin.

The readings also show that the location of Shakespeare's head appeared to be disturbed years ago with the skull replaced with a loose material.

"We have Shakespeare's burial with an odd disturbance at the head end and we have a story that suggests that at some point in history someone's come in and taken the skull of Shakespeare," said Kevin Colls, an archaeologist from Staffordshire University.

William Shakespeare's lost skull is not the only famous stolen body part. Some graves of writers, scientists, leaders and other famous personalities have been tampered with, and their body parts stolen.

Maori Heads

Maori Heads spurred fascination among traders many years back. These ancient heads, which have been used in Maori practice as a way to honor the spirits of their forefathers, were stolen and seen in various museums.

In 2010, France's National Assembly pledged to return the mummified heads back to New Zealand.

Santa Claus' Bones

The famous St. Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, was one of the victims of body parts theft. During the Middle Ages, it was a famous practice to steal body parts of saints because people believe these can perform miracles. As a result, people hired robbers to steal bones from the grave of famous saints.

Benito Mussolini's Brain

In 1966, two decades after Benito Mussolini was executed, the United States gave part of his brain back to his wife. She was shocked to discover that part of her husband's brain was removed to be studied.

Several years ago, Mussolini's granddaughter claimed she saw an eBay listing of her grandfather's brain. She tipped off the police. eBay removed the listing.

Mozart's Skull

The famous composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, was also a victim of robbery. Joseph Rothmayer, a gravedigger, stole the skull of the famous Austrian composer a decade after his death in 1791. The skull was kept as a remembrance and has been handed down from one generation to another, until it was surrendered to the Salzburg Mozarteum Foundation in the early 20th century.

All Of Thomas Paine

Thomas Paine, a hero of the American and French revolutions, was buried with only six people attending his funeral. About a decade later, William Cobbett, Paine's fan, stole the entire body in the hopes of giving him a proper memorial.

Cobbett was not able to raise the money needed, so he kept Paine's remains in his attic. Although, after the death of Paine's fan, the body disappeared.

Photo: Salman Javed | Flickr

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The United Kingdom is developing three space robots in the race to find life on Mars. The first prototype is named "Bruno," and it's scheduled for a special experiment final testing in April. The two other planetary navigation robots were named Bridget and Bryan.

All three were designed and developed by Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage, England. The British rovers are part of the 946 million (over $1.3 billion) space project that will send a robot to Mars in 2018. But what makes them different from other Martian rovers?

Bruno is capable of producing its own 3D map of a target area so it can plan its own path. But the caves and craters on the Martian surface still confuse Bruno so scientists are still tweaking that feature with the help of British astronaut Tim Peake.

Jeremy Close, communications director for Airbus Defence & Space, acknowledged the efficiency of having a human remotely control the rover to explore certain areas. Bruno is currently training in a large testing site in Stevenage.

Being semi-autonomous enables Bruno to be self-aware to a certain degree. For instance, by creating a 3D map of an area, it teaches the robot that there are some rocks that need to be avoided by driving around it instead of running over it. The 3D map enables it to sense if certain slopes are safe for climbing as well as to perceive ditches.

Unlike other planetary rovers, Bruno doesn't need to wait long to receive beamed instructions from Earth-based operators. Human operators will only need to provide the coordinates of a specific location they want to target. It's up to Bruno to decide on how to get there.

In about two years, Bruno, Brian and Bridget will be joined by a six-wheeled rover with a "brain" similar to that of Bruno. The European Space Agency has yet to name this fourth robot but from what we know so far, this rover is designed to search for biochemical signatures of life unlike any other rover before it.

The finished rover will be equipped with a drill that will help it explore 2 meters (over 9 feet) below the arid Martian surface. It can procure samples and analyze the using the onboard lab. The finished rover can also take images of the surrounding Martian landscape.

"It will have the ability to put you there in a 3D color environment as if you were on Mars," said head of science Dr. Ralph Cordey from the Airbus Defence and Space. "It will help answer one of the really deep down questions that we have. You stop and look up into the night sky and wonder, is there life out there? We've now got the engineering and science capability to start trying to answer that question."

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Jim Harrison, the man behind the story that catapulted Brad Pitt to Hollywood superstardom, has died from a still-unknown cause in his home in Patagonia, Arizona, on March 27. He was 78.

The sad news is confirmed by his publisher Grove Atlantic in its Twitter post on the same day.

"America lost one of its greatest writers and we at Grove lost a family member. Our thoughts are w/ the Harrison family. His work lives on," said the post. The company also paid tribute to the celebrated author and poet in its Instagram.

Born on December 11, 1937 in Grayling, Michigan, he had a full-time writing career that spanned for more than 30 years. He was an author, poet, reviewer and essayist who loved the outdoors and food, which was his subject in "The Raw and the Cooked" published in 2001.

He was also known for writing 40 books such as "Julip," "True North" and "Dalva" and for co-scripting movies like "Cold Feet" and "Carried Away."

But it was his 1979 novella "Legends of the Fall" that made him even more popular as it was later turned into a movie in 1994, where he also co-wrote the screenplay. Although the movie received mixed reviews, it received three Academy Awards nominations and bolstered Pitt's name due to his stellar performance.

When not writing, he's known to seek adventures like hiking, fishing and hunting. In his early days, there were reports of almost endless flirting, dating and drinking with beer buddies including Hollywood star Jack Nicholson, who is said to have loaned him the money needed to complete the novella.

Friends took to social media to express their sadness over the loss. "A giant. A Titan. A friend. RIP Jim Harrison. There will be no more like him. I am told he left with pen in hand," shared chef and host Anthony Bourdain, who appeared with Harrison in his "Without Reservations" Montana episode.

With his death, he left behind two children, Anna Hjortsberg and Jamie Potenberg, and three grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Mary, and brother, David. His wife, Linda, died on October 2, 2015, in Billings, Montana, after battling a rare respiratory illness.

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A tentative deal has been reached between lawmakers and labor unions to raise the minimum wage in California to $10.50 per hour next year, and then gradually increase to $15.

The deal was confirmed by sources familiar with the negotiations, according to the Los Angeles Times. The sources want to remain unidentified because Gov. Jerry Brown will not be making the formal announcement of the deal until as early as March 28.

The Los Angeles Times has acquired a document, which states that the minimum wage in California will increase from $10 per hour to $10.50 per hour beginning Jan. 1, 2017. The minimum wage will then have another 50-cent increase to $11.00 on Jan. 1, 2018, before continuing with increases of $1 per year until 2022.

The document also stated that for businesses that have less than 25 employees, they will be given an extra year before being required to comply, delaying the $15 per hour minimum wage until 2023.

The statewide minimum wage increase will give the most populous state the country's highest minimum pay floor. The current $10 per hour minimum wage is already among the highest among all states, with some cities in California having set minimum wages at higher amounts. In the middle of last year, Los Angeles joined the list of cities in the United States that have approved a gradual minimum wage hike to $15.

Advocates for the proposal praised have praised the said approval, claiming that it represents a massive victory that could lead to the rise of similar efforts across the country.

"This is a very big deal," said National Employment Law Project General Counsel's Director Paul K. Sonn. "It would mean a raise for one of every three workers in the state," Sonn added.

Brown, who has previously signed an increase to minimum wage in 2013, initially resisted several efforts to discuss another minimum wage increase. However, labor unions said that they would be willing to take the issue to voters if the proposal was not considered.

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Microsoft is working on a Windows 10 variant tailored after the needs of the Chinese government, a recent report indicates.

China found that the standard Microsoft OS versions, namely Windows 10 Mobile, Windows 10 Enterprise, Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro were not perfectly suitable for government use. That is why the Chinese government convinced Microsoft to collaborate with a Chinese corporation, and the result of the teamwork is called Windows 10 Zhuangongban.

Chinese magazine Caixin reports that the "Windows 10 Specially-provided Edition" was the result of Microsoft's cooperation with China's CETC, a state-owned tech and defense corporation. The magazine notes that the first Chinese region-specific version of Windows is working and stable.

The story is not really breaking news, however. Late last year, Microsoft told the media that it was setting up a joint venture with the Chinese tech industry to deliver the specially crafted version of Windows 10.

As expected, there are a few differences between this customized Chinese Windows 10 and the global version.

The operating system holsters few consumer-oriented apps and services, such as games, but packs a significant degree of both security and management controls.

Microsoft China's CEO, Ralph Haupter, told Caixin that the Windows 10 Zhuangongban can run all Windows-compatible software, but gave no further details on the aesthetical changes that took place.

This is not the only operating system that the Chinese government takes interest in. The authorities invested massively into developing what is now known as NeoKylin, a Linux-based OS that is partially developed by the Chinese state. The software has been used on a larger scale in the last years.

Most notably, the Tianhe-2 supercomputer runs on NeoKylin.

When compared with the Linux-based OS, Windows 10 Zhuangongban has the advantage of a much broader range of software compatibility. Looking at the big number of tools (such as Office 365) that Microsoft offers, it is easy to see why the Windows 10 could be easily adopted in state-owned enterprises.

At the same time, insiders from the tech and intelligence world criticize Microsoft's close ties with the Chinese government. The accusers point to the fact that a nation-focused variant of Windows can be crafted with the authorities' interest in mind, purposely ignoring user-privacy concerns.

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Mother Mary Angelica of the Annunciation, founder of the global Catholic network Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), died on Easter Sunday, March 27.

At 92, Mother Angelica died after her battle with the effects of stroke.

"We ask for your prayers for the soul of EWTN's beloved foundress, Mother Angelica, who passed away today on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016 at about 5:00 p.m. Central time," said EWTN in a post on Facebook. "Please remain with us as we remember her joyful words, extraordinary works, and incredible life throughout this week."

Mother Angelica passed away at the Our Lady of the Angels monastery in Hanceville, Alabama.

On Christmas Eve in 2001, the nun went through severe cerebral hemorrhage. Since then, Mother Angelica had been unable to regain her full capacity for speech. She also endured other strokes after that day.

"Mother has always and will always personify EWTN, the network that God asked her to found," said Michael Warsaw, chief executive officer and chairman of EWTN. "Her accomplishments and legacies in evangelization throughout the world are nothing short of miraculous and can only be attributed to Divine Providence and her unwavering faithfulness to Our Lord."

Mother Angelica was born in Canton, Ohio in 1923. At 21, she entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration monastery in Cleveland. Along with other nuns, she opened a new monastery in Alabama in 1962.

With only $200, Mother Angelica established EWTN in Birmingham, in a monastery garage, in 1981.

To date, EWTN is deemed as the largest religious media network across the globe. The Catholic network now broadcasts 24/7 programming to more than 264 million homes across 144 nations. With just 20 employees in the beginning, the EWTN staff has now grown to almost 400. This network has also received the blessing of the Vatican.

In 2013, the media network reported that it generated a total revenue of $46 million. From this figure, $45 million came from donations.

On Friday, April 1, at 11 a.m., a Mass of Christian Burial and Rite of Committal will be held at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville. The interment will follow in the Crypt Chapel.

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Dell is reportedly trying to close a deal with Japan's NTT Data, a subsidiary of telecom company NTT, on the sale of its IT services unit for the price of $3.5 billion.

Established in 2009, Dell's IT division was formed after the U.S.-based company acquired Perot Systems in a deal that was valued at $3.9 billion. Perot Systems was founded in 1988 by Ross Perot, a former candidate in the U.S. presidential race.

Selling its IT business to NTT Data will allow Dell to shave off some of its $43 billion worth of debt from its pending acquisition of EMC Corp., which will reportedly reach up to $60 billion once it is finalized.

The EMC acquisition deal, according to Reuters, will be backed by Michael Dell, founder and chief executive of Dell, along with Silver Lake Partners, a private equity company. The deal is expected to earn approval from EMC shareholders when they hold a vote in May. Once approved, the transaction may reach its full terms of agreement between July and October.

The Dell-EMC tie-up, once completed, can be considered one of the biggest tech tie-ups that has ever been witnessed to date.

Dell had also syndicated $10 billion of the needed financing for the EMC deal, which is otherwise known as "term loan A." It is expected that the number will rise by $500 million to $750 million because of the strong demand. Dell plans to use the extra money as a way to downsize the remaining $33 billion financing that is needed in the deal.

Dell's IT division is a major technology consulting provider to a number of hospitals and government offices. In the past years, Dell has started selling some of the unit's operations and integrating some that were not part of the sale. The company began to see some redundancy in the division's capabilities following its acquisition attempt on EMC.

Apart from selling its IT services unit, Dell is also in talks with private equity firms on the possible sale of its information technology management arm Quest Software and the company's email encryption and data security services SonicWall. The paired deal is said to have a valuation of up to $4 billion.

Dell is yet to announce an agreement on the deal with NTT Data, but the latter's board is expected to approve the offer soon enough, in a meeting that is set to take place in Tokyo.

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Firefighters trying to contain a wildfire that has ravaged a large part of Oklahoma and Kansas since last week received an unexpected help from a rare snowfall on Easter Sunday.

The snowfall, which began on Saturday evening, had already provided about an inch of snow to both affected states. However, officials were still unsure when the firefighting teams would be able to contain the ongoing fire.

Oklahoma Forestry Services spokeswoman Melanie Karns explained that the teams are trying to utilize the falling rain and snow in order to get control of the situation, but that it might take more than just a little bit of precipitation to put out the heavier fuel sources for the fire.

The wildfire began in Oklahoma on Tuesday but quickly spread to other areas in the north.

Karns said that the wildfire was about 36 percent contained in portions of Oklahoma and Kansas on Saturday and was eventually brought to 45 percent contained by Sunday afternoon.

The so-called Anderson Creek Fire is considered to be one of the largest wildfires ever to take place in the United States, according to the Kansas Forestry Service. So far it has scorched as much as 400,000 acres of land both in Oklahoma and Kansas.

In Kansas, the wildfire was particularly devastating to the county of Barber, which is located about 100 miles southwest of Wichita. Firefighters have been struggling to contain the fire in the county. Karns said that the wildfire in Barber County is 31 percent contained.

Members of the Kansas Air National Guard have also joined in on efforts to control the spread of the wildfire. They used four Black Hawk helicopters specially designed with water buckets to fly overhead and douse the fire in areas that were unreachable by firefighters on the ground.

"This is real rough country out here, and the Black Hawks are helping us get water into areas we had difficulty getting to," Kansas Forest Service spokeswoman Shawna Hartman said.

She said that large portions of affected areas, such as drainages, gullies and deep canyons, are filled with red cedar trees and prairie grasses that serve as heavy fuels for the fire, allowing the wildfire to catch on to other areas as well.

The firefighters have already dumped as much as 50,000 gallons of water on the wildfire as of Saturday.

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Poor Ewoks. They kind of got the short end of the stick.

After the Empire sets up shop on their forest moon, installing a shield generator for the second Death Star on its surface, it's only a matter of time before the galactic civil war erupts in their backyard.

Erupt it does, with the Rebels even convincing the Ewoks to join them in their fight against the Empire. Though the Rebels are victorious and the second Death Star is eventually destroyed, it doesn't look like that treetop dance party at the end of Return of the Jedi would have really happened if Star Wars took place in the real world.

What would have happened instead? Global extinction, according to one physicist from Purdue University. Writing for Tech Insider, scientist Dave Minton goes on to explain how the destruction of the Death Star may have saved the galaxy, but at the cost of Endor and its moons.

"More or less what happens after the destruction is that the entire mass of the Death Star simply falls onto the location of the shield generator," Minton says.

This is because, Minton concludes, based on the size of the structure and the "relatively gentle explosion" featured in the film, that almost none of the Death Star would have been vaporized. That, in turn, leads to Endor's gravity essentially sucking in the majority of the debris floating around in space.

Whoops. Turns out that all of the Death Star debris raining down on the home of the Ewoks would have had some pretty terrible and immediate effects.

According to Minton, the crater caused by the fragments of the Death Star would be four times larger than the Chixculub crater in Mexico, the crater of the asteroid that is said to have wiped out the dinosaurs. The impact of objects of that size would completely destroy the surface of the moon, flash-heating every body of water on Endor into steam and lighting the entire forest-covered moon on fire.

So, yeah, all the Ewoks probably die. Or that would be the case if George Lucas had paid any attention to physics or science in his Star Wars films, which he didn't. So, the Rebels and the Ewoks celebrate the destruction of the Death Star and a new era of peace and prosperity by dancing under the Death Star-free stars, no global extinction required. Consider it movie magic.

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A 40 anos de Malvinas

"Revisar el pasado es pensar el futuro". La frase de la presidenta de Telam, Bernarda Llorente, resume el espiritu del documental coproducido entre la agencia de noticias y el canal publico de TV sobre la cobertura que los medios de comunicacion hicieron del conflicto, plagada de censura y mentiras. Una autocritica necesaria para mirar hacia adelante en un (ya viejo) contexto de fake news y negocio informativo.
Teaching children fundamental British values is an act of "cultural supremacism", teachers have said, as members of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) vote to replace the concept with one that includes "international rights".

A legal duty on teachers to promote so-called British values was passed two years ago after the "Trojan Horse" controversy.

However, teachers argue "fundamental British values" set an "inherent cultural supremacism, particularly in the context of multicultural schools and the wider picture of migration".

The motion, which was passed at the NUT's annual conference in Brighton, also calls for a campaign to promote "policies that welcome migrants and refugees into Britain" and called on members to "gather and collate materials on migrants and refugees" to be used in schools.

"Its our duty to push a real anti-racist work in all schools. And that doesnt mean talk of tolerating others views, but genuine, inclusive anti-racist work" Teacher Christopher Denson

Following the motion, teachers were accused of looking to play "the role of fifth columnists" and that they risked making children feel guilty about being British.

The motion said migrants make a "huge economic, political and social contribution to the country" and condemned the Prime Minister for "racial stereotyping".
Dairy farmers are used to fantasy contrasting with reality. Even as the price of milk drives us to depression or worse, you can't turn on your television without being confronted by someone bedding down some super-cute baby animals with straw so lovely you could sleep in it yourself. The viewer goes to bed with a warm glow knowing that Farmer Jack is toiling away just up the lane to provide great food. Goodness, the food might even have a picture of a clean, photogenic farmer on its packaging. How much better does it get?

So it actually isn't so shocking to us that Tesco has been accused of using fictional, British-sounding farm names to burnish its brand. It's one of those odd pieces of news where, you know, you're outraged, but in a funny way, and really not all that surprised. It is part and parcel of what we allowing to happen in this country.
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European judges could water down the powers of police and the security services to obtain information relating to people's phone calls, text messages and emails just weeks before the EU referendum.

The European Court of Justice will hold a hearing on April 12 on whether the "bulk" interception of communications data is in breach of the principle of human rights.

The final decision will have a significant impact on Government's plans to grant the security services further powers to tackle terrorists and serious criminals.

The timing of the judgement ahead of the referendum on June 23 will fuel allegations from leave campaigners that European judges are exerting too much influence over Britain.

The court is making the decision after David Davis, a Conservative MP, and Tom Watson, Labour's Deputy Leader, last year won a legal victory in the High Court against the Government.
It was not long, however, before Sealands sovereignty faced a further challenge  in the form of a boarding party from Radio Caroline, which the Bateses repelled with Molotov cocktails and warning shots. In 1968, when the Royal Maritime auxiliary vessel Golden Eye passed close by, three warning shots were fired across her bow before she turned for the shore. Bates was summonsed under the Firearms Act and appeared in the dock at Essex Assizes. Again the judge decided that the courts had no jurisdiction. A QC commenting on the case described the family as having the element of swashbuckling more appropriate to the days of Queen Elizabeth I than ours.

During the 1970s Bates created Sealands own constitution, flag (red and black with white diagonal stripe), passports, national anthem and stamps and currency bearing Princess Joans arresting features.

But, she insisted, I got my title the hard way. I had to earn it. Once, while Roy tended to business matters, she was forced to hold the fort with only her teenage son Michael for company for a 14-month stretch during which she carried a .38 pistol by day and slept with it under her pillow at night.

Sealands accommodations are anything but royal, reported a visiting journalist in 1984. On the main deck are four cold, clammy rooms equipped with space heaters, basins [with no taps] and a shower, and permeated by a distinctly mouldy aroma. But Princess Joan insisted that it was sheer luxury compared with what they found when they first arrived, when Sealand was just dead seagulls, dust, rust, no light, no doors and no windows.

To make the place feel more homely she installed frilly bed covers and adorned the bulkheads with framed hunting scenes. She shopped weekly in Harwich but also kept three years worth of frozen and dried food on the platform in case of emergency.

I like all things luxurious, she explained. But luxury is security and being able to do your own thing at your own time.

She was born Joan Collins on September 2 1929 in Aldershot barracks to Albert Collins, a regimental sergeant major in the Royal Artillery, and his wife, Elizabeth. She was brought up in Essex.

A striking blonde, she worked as a fashion model as a teenager and was a local carnival queen when she met Roy Bates at a dance aged 19. It was stunning, like what you read in a book, she recalled. He was tall, dark and handsome. There was no question in my mind that we would always be together from the first minute. It took Roy three days to propose, and I thought he was taking a helluva long time. Within three months they were married.

Joan supported her husband as he tried his hand at various schemes. He imported meat from the Irish Republic to the rationed North, and rubber from Malaysia to make frogmens flippers. He built up an inshore fishing fleet on the Essex coast. He also ran a chain of butchers shops, a wholesale meat depot and, at one time, an estate agency. Once he even sold British seaweed to New York florists. The only time Joan put her foot down was when, in the middle of the Mau Mau uprising, he suggested they move to Kenya and buy a farm. These things attract me like a madman, Roy admitted.
Professor Keith Jeffery, who has died of cancer aged 64, was a historian of Ireland and the British Empire and was chosen in 2004 to write the first official history of the Secret Intelligence Service, MI6.

The existence of the service had itself been an official secret (often with absurd results) until 1994 and it was a surprise when its then chief, Sir John Scarlett, announced that its centenary in 2009 would be marked by an official history, albeit one which covered only its first 40 years, starting in 1909 when MI6 was a one-man band run by Mansfield Cumming (the prototype for Ian Flemings M) who, as Jeffery related, recorded his first day in his diary: Went to the office and remained all day, but saw no one, nor was there anything to do there. This was unsurprising as his telephone number was considered too secret to be listed in the Whitehall directory.

Jefferys 832-page study, The Secret History of MI6, published in 2010, traced the history of the shoestring operation of 1909 to the global intelligence service it had become by the onset of the Cold War in 1949, by which time it was employing 2,000 people at home and abroad.

It was not a story of smooth progress, however, and some critics found the scholarly length in which Jeffery charted the bureaucratic turf wars between the first three Ms  Cumming, Hugh Sinclair and Stewart Menzies  with Whitehall bean-counters and empire builders, to be excessive.

Nonetheless, for fans of the James Bond school of espionage, there was enough to make the book enjoyable. There was, for example, La Dame Blanche, an 800-strong Belgian organisation, organised into battalions, one-third of which were women. They included 44 priests, a nun and a reverend mother, and their main occupation was counting and reporting on German troop trains passing through Belgium during the First World War. Jeffery reckoned them to be the most successful single British human intelligence operation of the conflict.

Cumming himself, Jeffery found, set the tone for the new service with his penchant for gadgets (including exploding filing cabinets), code names and invisible inks: The best invisible ink is semen, someone opined, and all were anxious to obtain it.
Lieutenant 'Dan' Carter, who has died aged 84, lived for flying and logged nearly 12,000 hours, most of them in single seater aircraft.

Carter was a 20-year-old sub-lieutenant when, on May 19 1952, he joined 802 Naval Air Squadron to fly the Hawker Sea Fury fighter-bomber from the carrier Ocean, while she was berthed at the naval base at Sasebo, Japan. Ocean sailed on May 28 for her sixth patrol of the Korean War and Carter was soon in action under his flight leader, Lieutenant Hoagy Carmichael, their tasks being mainly bridge-busting to halt the advance of the North Korean army.

On August 9, however, Carmichael became the first pilot of a propeller driven aircraft to shoot down one of the Soviet-piloted, high-performance MiG-15 jets . The next morning, with Carter as Carmichaels wingman, four Sea Furies bombed a bridge at Chaeryong and they were carrying out photo reconnaissance along the North Korean coast when Carter spotted two MiGs, and then six more. The Sea Furies released their drop-tanks and, for the second time in two days, Carmichael and his flight engaged in an aerial dogfight. During ten minutes desperate twisting through the sky, Carter fired two bursts at 600 yards at two separate MiGs, without visible result, and as the MiGs were seen to be to be heading northwards, one of them trailing smoke, the Sea Furies entered cloud.

On a second sortie that afternoon, Carter bombed another bridge, but on his return to Ocean the arrester wire malfunctioned and tore the hook off his aircraft. He crashed into the barriers.

Robin Michael Carter was born on June 17 1931 at Elmer Sands, West Sussex, and educated at Sutton Valence School, Kent. His father, a vicars son, died of wounds received more than a decade earlier in the First World War and he was brought up by his mother, a shepherds daughter, and her parents. After running the post office at Middleton-on-Sea, his mother made a living by developing property .

In 1950 Carter followed his brother Jack into the Fleet Air Arm. He was not discouraged when he heard that on the night of May 19 1955 Jack had rolled off the bows of the carrier Hermes in a Sea Venom and needed to be picked out of the water by helicopter.

Carter was given the name Dan after undertaking the commissioning of a new latrine block with mock seriousness. His fellow crew then painted DDLM  Desperate Dan the Lavatory Man  on the side of his aircraft .

He served in 807, 802, 771, and 808 Naval Air Squadrons before leaving the Navy to fly for Airwork.

In the mid-1960s Carter left Britain and immersed himself in the world of flying. He flew for the Saudi Arabian Air Force (1966-67) , the Abu Dhabi Defence Force (1970-73) and the Sultan of Omans Air Force between 1973 and 1979.

Carter then returned to the Fleet Air Arm as a civilian pilot in the Fleet Requirements and Air Direction Unit, which provided training for the Royal Navy by conducting simulated attacks on Royal Navy ships during exercises. On May 16 1983, however, the engine of his Hunter failed at low level and crashed into the sea . He ejected but injured his back . It brought an end to his flying career .

Airwork subsequently found work for Carter at Royal Aircraft Establishment, Llanbedr, where he remained until he retired, aged 72.

He had few interests outside flying, lived hard, and never started the day until he had finished the crossword puzzle .

Carter married, first, Georgia Plummer in 1959, who died in 1965 during a routine operation in hospital, and, second, in 1984, Rita Wilson, who survives him. There were no children from either marriage.

Lieutenant Dan Carter, born June 17 1931, died December 31 2015
Fewer than one in four people support the SNPs plan to appoint every Scottish child a state guardian and nearly two-thirds believe it is an unacceptable intrusion into family life, according to a new opinion poll.

The ComRes survey found only 23 per cent of respondents across the UK thought it was right that every youngster be assigned a Named person to monitor their well-being regardless of whether their parents want one.

Six out of ten people agreed that giving all children a state guardian, whether or not they are vulnerable, represented an unacceptable intrusion and more than half said that Named Persons should not have the power to ask youngsters about their family life if there is no sign of anything wrong.

The poll of 6,120 people was commissioned by The Christian Institute, part of a campaign group fighting the Named Person legislation in the UKs highest court, which hailed the results as evidence that public opposition to the plan is growing.

Although the Scottish sample in the survey was 532, around half the 1,000 respondents deemed as being the gold standard for a representative poll, the results recorded north of the Border were similar to the headline UK figures.
Daniel Kaizen ordered a minicab from Old Street to Wood Green, north London this weekend, a five-mile trip which he said he was told would cost around 15.

But the late-night detour around the capital meant that his journey took five times longer than he expected and the bill came to over 100.

He said that Uber has since apologised and promised to refund the money.

Mr Kaizen, 26, ordered an Uber minicab in the early hours of Bank Holiday Monday morning and said that he slept most of the way back.

But instead of being driven through north London on what would have been the quickest route, he spent the night riding due east to Barking before being taken around the North Circular to his destination.

 Uber taxi seized by police investigating murder of Muslim shopkeeper Asad Shah

After waking up at his destination, he switched on his phone to give his driver a star rating and said I nearly spat out my tea laughing at the route.
Scores of senior fire officers are claiming generous retirement payouts by leaving their jobs and returning as little as a day later, The Daily Telegraph can disclose.

In one case a chief officer retired to claim a lump sum of almost 400,000 from his pension pot before being rehired the next month.

We have been extremely clear that payments for so-called 'boomerang bosses are an unacceptable use of taxpayers money, especially when fire authorities need to be making sensible savings Home Office spokesman

Another fire service paid out almost 1 million to staff who were taken back on as little as a month later.

A Home Office spokesman said the disclosures were unacceptable and described the fire chiefs as boomerang bosses.

The sums at retirement, described by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) as double pay-pension pay-offs, were handed out during the last five years as many fire services suffered job losses.

Allowing an officer to retire before rehiring them means they can access their taxpayer-supported pension pot in the form of a lump sum of up to a quarter of the pots total value immediately and receive the remainder incrementally while they are still working, rather than waiting until retirement.
The RSPCA has been accused of acting unlawfully after seizing a familys pet cat - which was then put down against the owners wishes  in an official review which described the charitys actions as a travesty.

The 16-year-old Turkish Van, named Claude, was taken away from Richard and Samantha Byrnes by RSPCA inspectors after a neighbour raised concerns about the animals appearance.

It was destroyed even though Mrs Byrnes tearfully begged animal inspectors to wait until her children, aged 12 and 14, could say goodbye to the animal they had known all their lives.

Now an official review conducted by Stephen Wooler, the former HM Chief Inspector to the Crown Prosecution Service, found the RSPCA had failed to disclose material to the Byrnes in a subsequent animal cruelty prosecution, The Times () reported.

The RSPCAs actions also provoked a hate campaign against the family, the unpublished report found.

The charity told the owners they would be taken to court  however evidence was unable to establish any more than "the possibility of suffering whereas the criminal law is concerned with what can be established beyond reasonable doubt", Mr Woolers review said.
Harvey Proctor has accused Theresa May, the Home Secretary, of "standing idly by" and allowing the "bizarre" Scotland Yard inquiry into VIP child sex abuse.

The former Conservative MP, who has been exonerated after a year under investigation by Scotland Yard's Operation Midland, said Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe was presiding over an ongoing "cover up".

Mr Proctor claimed there was "corruption" in Scotland Yard surrounding the child sex abuse inquiry. Mrs May had "let the Metropolitan Police ride roughshod over the policing of London", said Mr Proctor.

"What started as an investigation quickly became a scandal and has ended in corruption"

He accused her of being more interested in securing the Tory leadership than overseeing the work of the police and her department.
The subsequent unrest has left 400 people dead, while some 250,000 have left the country and violent attacks have become a daily routine, raising fears of a return to the civil war fought between 1993-2006.

Concerns have been raised that more radical elements in Burundi's ruling party are gaining influence.

"The Hutu extremist faction of the CNDD-FDD was marginalised until the start of this crisis ... it is clear that they are now in control of the country," a concerned diplomat told AFP on condition of anonymity.

The diplomat noted that Mr Nyabenda, as well as being ruling party head, is also president of the national assembly and the number two figure in the Burundian state.

"It is feared that there would be dire consequences if the crisis worsened or if there was a serious incident like the death of a senior party official," he said.

The CNDD-FDD party was formed from the main Hutu rebel group that fought against the formerly Tutsi minority-dominated army during the Burundian civil war.
An exiled Chinese dissident says three of his relatives were detained in China, the latest sign that an apparent hunt for the source of a letter which called on Xi Jinping to resign is deepening.

Germany-based journalist Chang Ping said two of his younger brothers and a younger sister were held when they travelled to the familys ancestral town to celebrate their fathers birthday.

The detentions, in the south-western province of Sichuan, follow the writers family being subject to investigation, harassment, and threats over the writers involvement in a letter which called on Mr Xi to resign, he claimed.

Chang Ping, whose real name is Zhang Ping, said he had discussed the letter in German and French media earlier this month, but that he was not involved in its publication.

I didnt help draft it, I didnt publicise it, and I only read it after it had already been widely promulgated, said the well-known government critic on the website chinachange.org.

The letter appeared on the Wujie News website earlier this month before being taken down.

Reports claim up to 16 members of staff at Wujie News and a related IT company may have been held as part of the investigation.
Pyongyang has demanded that Seoul apologises for offending the dignity of the North Korean leadership and publicly executes the officials responsible for a military exercise that simulated an attack on Kim Jong-un's headquarters.

Should Park Geun-hye, the South Korean president, fail to comply with the ultimatum, the North's state media said, "the long-range artillery forces of the Korean People's Army combined unit on the front will move over to merciless military action".

Angered by the ongoing Foal Eagle and Key Resolve military exercises in South Korea, which bring together around 300,000 South Korean troops with 17,000 US personnel, North Korea has stepped up its rhetoric in recent weeks.
Pakistan's army rounded up 50 suspected members of the Taliban splinter group that carried out the deadly Easter Sunday suicide attack in Lahore in overnight raids early on Monday.

The arrests in three cities across eastern Pakistans Punjab region came as the death toll from the attack on a park in the provincial capital climbed to 72, including at least 29 children and 14 Christians.

The operation started at midnight on Monday, and a number of suspects were arrested from the different cities of Punjab, a Punjab minister told The Telegraph.

Fifty suspects were arrested after the blast. Pakistan Army is leading the operation and no factor of any terrorist group will be spared.

Five operations have been carried out in the cities of Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan so far.

Military spokesman Asim Bajwa confirmed on Twitter that a number of suspect terrorists and facilitators had been arrested and a huge cache of arms and ammunition recovered.
Belgian police have released new video footage of the so-called "man in the hat" - the third airport attacker whose bomb failed to go off at Brussels airport in last week's atrocity.

The 32-second video, released as the death toll in the bombings rose to 35, shows the individual pushing a luggage trolley through the departure hall next to two men known to have blown themselves up in last Tuesday's assault.

Still images from the scene had already been issued but this was the first time video footage has been released of the man wearing a hat and white jacket.

A police notice issued with the video said that officers "want to identify this man".

Belgian officials meanwhile have raised the toll from coordinated suicide attacks on Zaventem airport and Maelbeek metro station in the centre of the city to 35.

The Belgian health minister said four of those wounded in the suicide bombings last week have since died in the hospital.

Belgian prosecutors have said that three more people were on Monday charged with participating in terrorist activities.

They were among four people detained during searches on Sunday in Brussels and the northern cities of Mechelen and Duffel.

Prosecutors did not release details on the alleged terrorist actions or whether they were linked to the March 22 suicide bombings at Brussels airport and in the Brussels metro.
A German train operator has announced it is introducing a women-only carriage on its trains following several violent sex attacks.

Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn will introduce the option for women passengers on the Leipzig to Chemnitz line, positioning the carriages next to the train conductor.

The local proximity to the customer service representative is chosen deliberately, a Mitteldeutsche Regiobahn spokesman said.

The carriages are designed to make solo female travellers or women with young children feel safer on trains.

Boys up to the age of ten will also be allowed to ride in the special carriages.

There were several sex attacks against women in Germany on New Year's Eve, widely blamed on migrants who had recently arrived in the country.

In Cologne, a crowd of some 1,000 men of North African or Arab appearance was able to mass around the citys main train station, with roving gangs allegedly assaulting dozens of women with impunity.
A British holidaymaker has been rescued from the Atlantic after apparently trying to swim to her cruise liner when it left port without her.

The 65-year-old is said to have jumped into the icy water and tried to reach the vessel after changing her mind about cutting short her holiday following a row with her husband.

Local press named her as Susan Brown. She was recovering in hospital on Monday in the Madeiran capital Funchal after being rescued by fishermen suffering hypothermia.

She was reportedly clinging to a small bag when she was pulled out of the water around 8pm on Saturday.

Funchal port captain Felix Marques told local press she had been a passenger on board the Marco Polo cruise ship, operated by Cruise & maritime Voyages, with her husband.

They reportedly rowed after the vessel docked in Funchal and she travelled to the islands airport before changing her mind about leaving the ship and making her crazy attempt to swim to it.
An Indian Catholic priest was crucified by Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Isil) on Good Friday in Yemen, it has been claimed.

A Dubai-based prayer group with close ties to the missionary home in Aden where Father Tom Uzhunnallil was abducted earlier this month reported the priests death on its Arabic website.

Cardinal Christoph Schonborn, Archbishop of Vienna, referred to the claims in his Easter Sunday homily.

Asked about the reports on Austrian television news later on Sunday evening, the archbishop replied: "We hope that it's not so, but we have to fear that it's true.

The Corpus Christi Dubai report appears to lend weight to earlier warnings that Isil were planning to crucify Father Uzhunnallil on Good Friday, in a grotesque imitation of the fate Christians believe Jesus Christ befell on the same day.

Fr Uzhunnallil, 56, was kidnapped on March 4 by gunmen from Mother Teresas Missionaries of Charity, the Aden missionary home where he had been working as a chaplain.

Sixteen people were killed in the raid.

Sister Sally, the orders mother superior who survived the attack, claimed the gunmen were from Isil, and a neighbour reportedly witnessed militants driving away with Fr Uzhunnallil in a car.
Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant has made "advanced plans" to kill Jewish children in Turkey by attacking kindergartens, schools and youth centres, it was reported on Monday.

The information on the "imminent" threat came from six operatives arrested over the past week in the southern Turkish city of Gaziantep, Sky News reported.

It was not clear which country's intelligence service had provided the information to the news network. Reuters could not verify the report and Turkish officials were not immediately reachable for comment.

"In light of these circumstances, extraordinary security measures are being taken above and beyond the high alert level already in place by the Turkish police, as well as vigilance within the Jewish community," Sky quoted an intelligence source as saying.
A British woman who died in mysterious circumstances in Israel last year was killed by a rare internal bleeding condition and not a beating received at the hands of her ex-boyfriend, Israeli authorities have said.

Julie Pearson died in the resort town of Eilat in November, one day after being assaulted by an ex-partner, and her family have struggled to get details of her death from the Israeli government.

Nearly four months after Julie's death, Israeli pathologists have told the UK embassy she "died of natural causes (internal bleeding in her stomach from a rare condition)".

"They have concluded that although Julie was assaulted she died of natural causes," the UK embassy wrote to the family.

The Pearson family said they have not yet seen the full report from pathologists but were troubled by its apparent findings.

"Julie never complained of a stomach condition that I know of. It sounds strange and it feels like there is something that is not right," said her aunt, Deborah Pearson.

Ms Pearson said she spoke to her niece five days before her death and Julie did not make any mention of problems with her stomach.

One possibility the family is considering is that an underlying stomach condition was aggravated and became fatal after the beating she received from her former partner, a Palestinian man from East Jerusalem.
Syrian regime forces are last night struggling to clear thickets of explosive booby traps left by retreating Islamic State fighters in Palmyra, as early assessments suggested the scale of archaeological damage in the ancient city was less grave than feared.

While Bashar al-Assad's troops have driven Isil forces from both the ancient and modern sections of the city, they are now faced with clearing out land mines and explosives left at the airport and key roads.

The Russian military, which backed the regime advance on Palmyra with heavy airstrikes, said it would send explosives experts and specialist robots to help clear the traps.
A fire raced up a high-rise tower in the United Arab Emirates city of Ajman late on Monday, the latest in a series of skyscraper blazes in the Gulf nation that is home to the world's tallest building.

Images shared on social media showed bright yellow flames spreading up the side of the building as chunks of burning material tumbled to the ground.

The Emirati interior minister, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, rushed to Ajman to help coordinate the response to the blaze, Ajman police said. There were no immediate reports of casualties.
"We want you to know how much God loves you, and that's a lot," she told viewers at the end of an episode recorded in November 2000.

Mother Angelica displayed both deep devotion to Jesus and a comic's timing on the episode, drawing laughs when she couldn't reach her Bible during the opening sequence. An unseen aide hands her the book from off camera.

"That's when you appreciate long arms," Mother Angelica deadpanned.

Mother Angelica was born Rita Rizzo in Canton, Ohio, in 1923. She entered the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration monastery in Cleveland at age 21 and joined other nuns in moving South to open a new monastery in Alabama in 1962.

With only $200, the nun began broadcasting a religious talk show from a TV studio put together in the monastery garage in suburban Birmingham in 1981.That show grew into Eternal Word Television Network, which has long had the blessing of the Vatican.

While critics sometimes accuse Eternal Word Television Network of being too conservative or too liberal, it says it tries to stick to the leadership of the Vatican. The network reports extensively on statements and trips by the pope. Despite its humble beginnings, EWTN Global Catholic Network calls itself the world's largest religious media network. It has 11 TV networks that broadcast Catholic programming to more than 258 million households in more than 145 counties and territories.
The US Capitol building was placed on lockdown on Monday after police opened fire on a man who brandished a gun on the premises.

The order to shelter in place came after gunshots rang out in the vistors centre of the building, which houses both the senate and house of representatives.

Tourists said they were terrified after hearing the shots and then being informed that there was an active shooter.
US government applies to drop court case that pitted tech giants against law enforcement agents in a battle over the limits of encryption and privacy.

The American government is abandoning its legal action against Apple after FBI investigators found a way to unlock an encrypted iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino gunmen, according to court papers filed on Monday.

The tech giant had been fighting a court order that required it to develop software that would unlock the phone, fearing it would make its encryption software redundant.

In response, the FBI said it was the only way to access data on Syed Rizwan Farook's handset and find out whether he had been in touch with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant or other terrorists before he and his wife shot dead 14 people in California last year. The couple died in a shootout with police.
The Conagua indicated that the atmospheric phenomenon registered maximum sustained winds of 140 kilometers per hour with gusts of up to 165 kilometers per hour. | Read More
AP CM to visit PEMANDU labs today

Hyderabad, March 28 (INN): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will visit the Performance and Management Delivery Unit (PEMANDU) labs on Tuesday at 3 PM at Dr. Marri Chenna Reddy Human Resource Centre, Hyderabad. He will personally experience the process and review the progress.



The Chief Minister will also personally review the Lab processes tomorrow. He will visit all the 6 work-streams to get a first-hand feel of the Lab process and outputs. R. P. Sisodia, IAS, Secretary to Govt (SE,IE, PE & SSA), School Education Department and G. AnanthaRamu, Prl. Secretary to Govt., Labour, Employment, Training and Factories Department who are the respective Lab in-charge's will accompany the Chief Minister to the Labs.This will be followed by a joint session with the Lab participants and stakeholders chaired by the Chief Minister.



In an aim to improve the quality of education and to make the state a key retail hub, Government of Andhra Pradesh entered into an agreement with Malaysia's PEMANDU.



PEMANDU is assisting AP government in providing facilitation services to conduct Labs on School Education and Retail Sector aiming to bring inclusive and sustainable results in the education and retail sector. This partnership will lay a strong foundation is changing the face of education and retail sector in Andhra Pradesh.



The Pre-lab sessions conducted in January brought out key issues in the Pre-Primary, Primary and the Secondary work streams in the education sector. Unorganised, organised retail and supply workstreams have identified issues pertaining to MSME Manufacturing units, Women SHGs, unorganised and organised sectors.



Based on the key findings of the Pre-Labs, the Lab sessions were organized to analyse, discuss and debate and bring out deliverable outcomes which need to be implemented both at the policy and field levels.The inaugural ceremony was chaired by the Chief Secretary S.P.Tucker on the 29th February, 2016.



The 4 weeks of Lab work has brought out valuable and key points in both the Education and Retail sectors. All the education and retail work-streams presented their initiatives and solution to the problems they have identified.



Given that Andhra Pradesh is poised to achieve sustainable and inclusive double-digit growth, the outcome of the PEMANDU labs is set to revitalize public services, reform education and attract foreign investment into the private sector, thereby transforming Andhra Pradesh into a high income economy.









News Posted: 28 March, 2016








Classes, exams held as per schedule: UoH

Hyderabad, March 28 (INN): The authorities of University of Hyderabad claimed that all classes and internal examinations were held according to the schedule at the University today. There was no disruption of any kind.



"About 200 students (just about 4% of the total of 5200 plus) of the university were seen in a peaceful march near the main gate and the administration building. Unverified reports have appeared in some newspapers saying that the University of Edinburgh will snap ties with UoH. The UoH has neither official ties nor has it signed any MoU with that University and has not received any official letter or communication from them. One of the students who were earlier suspended from the hostel, Mr. V Sunkanna, has recently defended his PhD thesis successfully at UoH," the University claimed in a press release on Monday evening.









News Posted: 28 March, 2016








Nayani assures stern action against eve-teasers

Hyderabad, March 28 (INN): Home Minister Nayani Narasimha Reddy on Monday informed that a total of 204 SHE Teams have been actively working across the Telangana State.



Replying to a query raised by TRS MLA Konda Surekha and Congress legislator Dr. J. Geetha Reddy during Question Hour in State Legislative Assembly, the Home Minister claimed that crime against women, especially eve-teasing, has significantly reduced after the formation of SHE Teams. He said as many 100 SHE team are operating in Hyderabad while 60 teams have been deployed in Cyberabad. He said most of the people arrested by SHE teams were youngsters. However, the habitual offenders were being booked under Nirbhaya Act.



The Home Minister said that the State Government was proposing to increase the number of SHE teams in the State.









News Posted: 28 March, 2016








Vietnams investment in Laos has reached almost US$5 billion, the Vietnamese Ministry of Planning and Investment announced on Saturday, Tuoi Tre News reported.

The combined capital Vietnamese investors had channeled into Laos has hit $4.9 billion so far, the ministry said during the 2016 Vietnam-Laos investment cooperation meeting in the central city of Da Nang.

The gathering was a national-level event chaired by the Vietnamese and Lao governments and attended by leaders of ministries, authorities as well as businesses from the two nations.

According to the Vietnamese ministry, Laos tops the list of 68 countries and territories that have business operations in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, Vietnam ranks second among the nations investing in Laos, it added.Vietnamese enterprises have carried out many successful operations in Laos, contributing to the socio-economic development of the country and being praised and highly evaluated by the local government.

Businesses from Vietnam have been cooperating with Lao authorities to do community work in several of the countrys localities, including the construction of schools, infirmaries, houses and roads for the Laotian people, with financial support topping tens of millions of dollars.

Source: Vietnams investment in Laos hits nearly $5 billion  Thai PBS English News
Vietnams membership in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) will yield economic benefits, especially to the countrys manufacturing sector. Vietnams textiles and apparel industry will enjoy expanded access to the US and Japan markets through reduced tariff duties as a result of TPP once it has been enacted, accelerating foreign direct investment into the country.

However, as highlighted in a white paper by Solidiance , an Asia-focused management consulting firm, strategic development of supporting industries (raw materials & machinery) and accompanying infrastructure (port, construction & logistic) will be needed to fully absorb TPPs benefits for the economy.

Drivers behind Vietnams benefits from TPP

Vietnams manufacturing environment is well-positioned to benefit from TPPs passage due to three primary factors:

1. Large trade volumes with the US and Japan

2. Competitive manufacturing environment

3. Tariff cuts of key export and import products

As TPP signatory countries account for around 40 percent of Vietnams total exports, the TPPs passage will not only accelerate Vietnams exports to TPP member countries, but also increase the countrys total export by an additional USD 68 billion by 2025.

In addition to Vietnams well performing competitive manufacturing environment, export-oriented manufacturers will be drawn to Vietnam as a result of TPP. This will further enhance the countrys attractiveness, especially in the textile &apparel supporting industries where manufacturing facilities had already be set up in Vietnam prior to the signing of TPP in anticipation of the agreement. TPPs yarn forward regulations requires Vietnam to take full advantage of reduced tariffs, textile & apparel inputs need to be sourced in a TPP member country.

Potential impacts of TPP on Vietnams manufacturing

Once TPP goes into effect, current tariff rates for textile, garments, and apparel exports from Vietnam to the US (7.9 percent on average for textiles and 11.4 percent for clothing) will be gradually reduced to zero, allowing for expanded market access to the US and Japan for Vietnam-based companies.

As an advantage of this expanded market access, TPP will attract additional Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Vietnam and drive further investments in an increasingly competitive business environment, with FDI expected to reach around US$20 billion by 2020 as more standardized business and policy environments are part of the requirements of TPP.

When large domestic and foreign investments pour into Vietnams economy following major trade agreements, manufacturing facilities tend to scale-up to take advantage of economies of scale. This has the potential to benefit Vietnams manufacturing sector and lead to an increase in production scale and industrial deepening, which ultimately drives productivity growth.

Moreover, rising FDI will fuel the development of upstream suppliers and manufacturers in supporting industries following TPPs implementation. To illustrate, in recent years, large electronics manufacturers have expanded their production base in Vietnam, creating potential market opportunities for local parts and component suppliers.
The outgoing head of the ABC says there will be "significant job losses" if Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull fails to continue nearly $90 million in extra funding granted by the former Labor government, due to expire in July.

In an extended interview with the ABC's Media Watch program, Mark Scott said the extra funding, worth $89.4 million, was more important than when it had been granted in 2013, citing Fairfax Media's recent announcement that it would slash 120 more editorial jobs.

Mr Scott said the money, worth ten per cent of the ABC's entire news budget, had been spent on creating local news websites, funding more regional journalists and on investigative reporting.

"If we don't get the news money, jobs will goand I've said to Canberra that there clearly will be content and programming consequences if that money doesn't come back," Mr Scott revealed. "We'll lose that money from early July and that will be an early issue that my successor will have to work with but we are confident that we've made a strong argument."
The ACT government has shortlisted three developers for a prime five hectare block at the Kingston foreshore.

Details of the development have been kept under wraps, with no information yet released on how much commercial space it includes, nor how many apartments.

The Kingston Arts Precinct, set for development, from an ACT government promotional video.

The 40,295 square metre block is between Wentworth Avenue and Eastlake Parade and the new development is adjacent to the glassworks in the historic powerhouse and the Old Bus Depot markets.

The three shortlisted developers, chosen from a request for proposal round late last year, are the Doma Group, the Englobo Group, and Geocon with Fender Katsalidis and Oculus.
ACT Treasury and planning officials were strongly opposed to the proposed "federation tram" being considered by cabinet in 2004 to link the National Museum and the War Memorial.

Treasury questioned the cost-benefit analysis, the build cost and the financial case for the tram, suggesting estimates were over-optimistic and the tram would run at a loss.

Former ACT treasurer Ted Quinlan: Pushed for Commonwealth funding for a "federation tram" in Canberra. Credit:Graham Tidy

Planning officials questioned the proposed use of heritage trams as not in keeping with the capital's image as a modern city. They also rejected justifying the project on the basis that trams had been part of the city's design since the original Walter Burley Griffin plan.

The justification is used now by the ACT government in pushing its $700 million tram project from Gungahlin to the city.
Employers, such as schools, do not need to immediately fire staff charged with child sex offences, the industrial umpire has ruled.

In a significant decision from the Fair Work Commission's full bench, the NSW Catholic Education Office lost a case where it claimed state law required it to sack a teacher after he was charged with a sex offence involving a minor.

Schools do not need to fire accused child sex offenders immediately, the Fair Work Commission has ruled. Credit:Michele Mossop

The teacher at a Sydney girls school was sacked in February 2015 after being charged with indecently assaulting a person under the age of 16.

The charges were dropped in August, and the former teacher sued the Catholic Education Office for wrongful dismissal.
April marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare's death, but the occasion is looking a cheerful one in Melbourne with comedies finding favour over tragedies.

The Victorian College of the Arts' Acting Company 2016 has just presented Much Ado About Nothing and will next month perform A Midsummer Night's Dream.

New theatre company Heartstring will premiere an all-female version of Shakespeare's Coriolanus.

Rob Conkie's Merry Wives of Windsor opens at Fortyfivedownstairs on April 20.

One exception to the light mood is the first work by new company Heartstring, who will premiere an all-female version of Coriolanus at Brunswick Mechanics Institute from April 27.
Cut to Carol, fanging it up the road in a tiny hatchback covered in spikes, like a failed prototype from Fury Road. A pick-up comes the other way, the men in back spraying her tyres with bullets. "Don't hurt me," she says as she steps out of the wrecked car, clutching her rosary beads with the sharpened crucifix, and wearing a massively oversized jacket. "Why does everyone always assume the worst," asks the lead redneck. There's some flirtatious badinage of the "you ain't goin' nowhere, lady" variety. "A woman like you, no weapons, no protection, no clue  you really shouldn't be out here alone." Nyuk nyuk.

There's leering, there's sneering, there's blubbering. "It doesn't have to be this way," says Meek Carol, snot dribbling. "You can turn around and go home, nobody has to get hurt." The rednecks think that's hilarious until she raises the sleeve with the gun hidden inside. Bam. By the time she's finished, four are dead, but one of them has come at her with a knife and we don't know what's happened to her. But we do know that the fifth redneck survived, and he's on her tail, her sharpened crucifix in hand. But Rick and Morgan are tracking her too. "I'm proud of her," says Rick, surveying the carnage. "She took four of them down. That woman, she's a force of nature."

He realises the dead men were Saviors, the mob they thought they had wiped out in their bloodthirsty pre-emptive attack. "We didn't end it," he says. "No," says Morgan. "You started something." Rosita, Glenn and Michonne are at the railway tracks where Denise was killed. They find Daryl's bike, hidden under some bushes; he's gone in search of Dwight and his men. They head into the woods, in the direction Dwight ran, in the direction Daryl has gone looking for him.

"We need to get back and figure this out from our home," Glenn pleads with Daryl when they find him. "It's going to go wrong out here." "We'll square it," promises Michonne. "Just come back." "I can't." And he's off, heading into the woods with his crossbow and little Daryl strop. "I can't either," says copycat Rosita, having a strop of her own.

I'll let you play with my X-Box if you come home, Daz. Glenn feels the odds are against them. The Saviors seem to know so much more about Alexandria than the Alexandrians know about them, and besides, where the hell did they park the car; was it by the Kids R Us or the Target? Suddenly, Katniss whistles her Mockingjay tune from the trees. Oh, I'm sorry; we appear to be experiencing some post-apocalypse survivalist drama cross-contamination here. "Hi," says Dwight, stepping from behind a tree, flanked by his whistling men. Off in some bucolic (if slightly zombie-infested) farmyard, Morgan is quizzing Rick on his favourite subject, Morality in the Age of Everything Has Gone to Shit.

He knows about the time back in the prison (aka season three) when Carol killed those two who were infected and burned their bodies, an act that led Rick to expel her from the community. What would you do now, Morgan asks, kill her? It's a fair question. I mean, that's how Rick deals with pretty much everything now. No milk in the fridge? Blam. The morning paper didn't turn up? Splat. "If it happened today I'd thank her, or I woulda killed them myself," says Rick. See what I mean. But Morgan has a point to make. "You sent her away and she came back and she saved all y'all. People can come back, Rick." There's that old-timey Resurrection talk again.

But Morgan isn't done yet. He has a confession to make, about the Wolf he had locked up in the basement  "because I knew he could change, because we all can change"  the one who got out with Denise, the one who gave his own life when they were surrounded by walkers so that she might live. Did someone say Easter? "He saved her life," Morgan says. "And then Denise was there to save Carl. It's all a circle. Everything gets a return." Did someone say Eastern? Morgan sends Rick home, and heads out on his own to find Carol, reluctantly accepting a pistol as a parting gift. Knitted socks would have been his preference, but whatevs.

Back in Alexandria, Abraham is on the gate; he tells Rick that Michonne is still out there. "You afraid to go back to it," he asks Rick. "Let somebody close?" "Yeah," says Rick. "Me too. But now I think I'm that much more ready to tear the world a brand new asshole. Any second now. Any second." I think he may have lifted that from a Valentine's Day card. Bless.

Maggie has asked Enid (Katelyn Nacon) to give her a haircut. Short, boyish. "I like it," says Enid. "But why?" "I have to keep going," says Maggie. "And I don't want anything getting in my way." And then she double up in pain. Is she about to lose the baby after all that kicking and punching and knife slashing she took in the abattoir? Dang, she could have saved 20 bucks on the haircut if she'd known.

Out in the woods, Glenn and Michonne are gagged, tied to a tree, as Daryl and Rosita creep up on the camp. Glenn is yelling muffled warnings at Daryl, but it doesn't help. How many syllables, Daryl wants to know. Is it a movie? A book? Come on Glenn, you're not helping here. "Hi Daryl." It's Dwight (Austin Amelio) behind him, with a gun pointed at his head. Daryl doesn't even get to turn around before the gun goes off, blood covers the lens, and a voice  Dwight's?  says, "You'll be all right". Dear God, no. Not Daryl. Not Glenn. Not Maggie or the baby or Carol.

One week out from the season finale, we knew there'd be blood, that we'd have to brace for loss. But not this much. Easter or not, some crosses are just too great to bear. The Walking Dead continues on FX Mondays at 1.30pm and 8.30pm. Karl Quinn is on Facebook and on twitter @karlkwin
"It's f---ing ridiculous, and all those people who put pressure on us, you can go f--- yourselves, alright?" she said. "Because it's hard. Some of us can't do it. I managed about nine weeks with my boobs (I mean I trip over them  I've got a very good push-up bra). Some of my mates got post-natal depression from the way those midwives were talking. Idiots.

The 27-year-old, who is mother to three-year-old son Angelo with partner Simon Konecki, didn't hold back at her sold-out concert at the O2 Arena in London when she was asked about "breastfeeding mummies"  a topic that provoked the ire of mothers when Oliver suggested last week that it was "easy".

"Breastfeed if you can but don't worry, [formula milk] Aptamil's just as good. I mean, I loved it, all I wanted to do was breastfeed and then I couldn't and then I felt like, 'if I was in the jungle now back in the day, my kid would be dead because my milk's gone.'

Jamie Oliver, pictured here with wife Jools and their four children, has since apologised for his comments. The pair are expected their fifth child. Credit:Getty Images

"It's not funny that's how some of us think," she added.

Feeling confident after he successfully headed a campaign to introduce a sugar tax on sweetened drinks in the UK, the TV chef appeared on British radio, Leading Britain's Conversation, and said, "We have the worst breastfeeding in the world.

"If you breastfeed for more than six months, women are 50 per cent less likely to get breast cancer. When do you ever hear that? Never.
National cultural institutions have been forced to find nearly $40 million of savings within four years in addition to federal budgets cuts, prompting fears of further job and program cuts at galleries, libraries and museums.

The government's efficiency dividend has been trimming the operating costs of Canberra-based institutions for nearly 30 years, despite bipartisan opposition from ACT politicians and taxpayers.

The National Library of Australia has announced a suite of staff and program cuts to meet the government's saving edict. Credit:Katherine Griffiths

The latest requirements come despite museums and galleries reducing their expenses by $29.4 million since September 2013, when the Coalition government was elected to office.

The full impact of the savings regime was detailed by Arts Minister Mitch Fifield in response to a question on notice from Labor senator Penny Wong.
A late-night argument outside an inner-Brisbane kebab shop has resulted in a man facing court for assault.

Queensland police will allege that two men were involved in a verbal argument outside a kebab shop on George Street, between Elizabeth Street and the Queen Street Mall, about 2.40am on Monday.

A man has been charged after an argument outside a kebab shop in Brisbane's CBD. Credit:Thinkstock

A 28-year-old man was pushed to the ground and hit multiple times in the face and head, police allege.

Paramedics treated the injured man for a cut to his head and a nose injury before he was taken to hospital.
Grill'd founder Simon Crowe is mapping out an Asian expansion for the Koko Black business just two months after buying the loss-making chocolate chain out of administration.

Koko Black's 13 stores will sell 10 tonnes of chocolate this week, eclipsing its Christmas haul as shoppers stock up on hand-made eggs and bunnies for Easter Sunday.

Danny Wyatt has recently joined Koko Black Chocolate Company as chief executive. Credit:Paul Jeffers

But the 12-year-old business has struggled in recent years, buckling under the pressure of an ambitious expansion strategy that saw the brand grow from a single store in Melbourne's Royal Arcade to a national network of 14 outlets.

After going into administration in November the business was bought by Mr Crowe. He shut down its Queensland store but he sees opportunities to grow the retailer's loyal following and improve its retail model, including the cafes or lounges attached to nine of its chocolate salons.
The family of one of the women murdered in a hair salon in Portland hopes the coroner's court will hold a new inquest into the crimes after the man charged died before the case could be finalised.

Robert Penny, 83, died on Saturday night before the case against him could be completed. A committal hearing was set to re-commence in May.

Mr Penny was charged last April with the 1991 murders of his wife Margaret Penny and her hairdresser Claire Acocks in Ms Acocks' salon in the sleepy seaside town.
Do private or public school students score the best VCE results?

New research suggests they achieve similar academic outcomes  if they teach students from similar backgrounds.

Brendon and Jo Gardner, whose boys Josh (second from left), 16, and Jobe, 13, go to Frankston High, are pleased with the results after their daughter Bree, 19, attended. Credit:Chris Hopkins

An analysis by Monash University education academic David Zyngier has revealed that many state schools with a high Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage (ICSEA) ranking  including Princess Hill Secondary and University High School  on average perform as well as private schools with a similar ranking.

This group of middle-class public schools clocked up an average VCE study score of 34 out of 50 in 2015, compared with 33 in similar private schools.
Glancing through the stall's wares, Professor Anderson says his stomach turned. The stall included a rack of tea towels branded 'Picanninny' and 'Good Golly'.

Melbourne University pro-vice chancellor Ian Anderson was attending the Easter market on Sunday on the Mornington Peninsula when he ran across the stall, which was selling various bits of kitsch Australiana.

A group of young Aborigines visiting Flinders Market have been left sick to their stomach after finding sellers hawking racist tea towels.

Both towels contained depictions of young black figures, meant to be children. The Gollywog was originally sketched in America and depicts an African-American, but became very popular in the UK and Australia in the 70s.

"They have a kind of superficial charm about them, they're sort of innocent. They're the sort of thing that is part of kids' stories. But they are deeply out of place in Australian society," Prof Anderson said.

"What's at the core of them is a really disturbing stereotype of indigenous Australia, of black people. It's naive and out of place."

Prof Anderson, whose family are Palawa Trowerna from the Pyemairrenner mob in Tasmania, was at the market with several other young Aboriginals.

"They did not see themselves as an apron-wearing domestic servant, or a naive stupid object for children.
Tony Banbury was a champion of disasters, leading the United Nations to tackle the Ebola virus and to provide emergency relief after the earthquake in Haiti and the tsunami that swept from the Indian Ocean.

He wept at a media conference in February as he revealed allegations of sexual abuse by UN peacekeeping troops from five African and Asian countries.

Tony Banbury says the United Nations' bureaucracy makes it difficult to achieve its goals. Credit:Twitter

Then he abruptly quit his almost-30-year career with the UN, where he'd risen to become assistant secretary-general in charge of field support, warning in a stinging New York Times article the international organisation was a "black hole into which disappear countless tax dollars and human aspirations, never to be seen again".

Criticism of UN lethargy and waste is hardly new, but rarely has it delivered by such a heavily credentialed insider.
Signature Theatre has announced plans for its Signature Theatre Annual Gala celebration, which will take place on April 18. The event, which will be held at Pershing Square Signature Center, will celebrate Signature's 25th anniversary and honor founding artistic director James Houghton's leadership of the company on the occasion of his final season as artistic director.

The celebratory evening will feature highlights from Signature's first 25 years, including music, live performance, and video, with Signature's board chairman Edward Norton (Birdman), Alumnus Ty Burrell (Modern Family), playwrights in residence, and many more.

Under Houghton's leadership Signature Theatre launched three distinct residency programs; produced more than 100 plays; built The Pershing Square Signature Center; created the Signature Ticket Initiative, designed to create accessibility to theater for all; and became the first New York City recipient of the Regional Theater Tony Award.
The rain beats down, the waters rise, and the floor threatens to split asunder. Seems like the perfect conditions for a party, right? Tarell Alvin McCraney (The Brother/Sister Plays) imagines just such a soiree in his magical new play, Head of Passes, now making its New York debut at the Public Theater. As a dramatist, McCraney exhibits admirable ambition. But in his quest to pen a universally resonant drama, he has neglected some fundamentals.

The name of the play is taken from the marshy area where the Mississippi River splits into three branches, a largely uninhabited part of Louisiana that is quickly being reclaimed by the rising tide. Shelah (Phylicia Rashad) is the matriarch of a stalwart local family that made its fortune running a bed-and-breakfast for oil workers in the Gulf of Mexico. With her husband dead, Shelah now lives alone in that stately B and B as it slowly deteriorates. She intends to pass the house on to to her sons, Spencer (the funny and imposing J. Bernard Calloway) and Aubrey (Francois Battiste), hoping they will revive the family business. Cookie (Alana Arenas), a wayward illegitimate daughter, is only spoken of in hushed tones. They have gathered, along with Shelah's doctor (Robert Joy) and friend Mae (Arnetia Walker), to celebrate Shelah's birthday. Dressed in tuxedoes, father-son catering duo Creaker (John Earl Jelks) and Crier (Kyle Beltran) are there to assist. Except for the doctor, none of them are aware that Shelah is dying. A torrential rain threatens to develop into a full-blown hurricane, pulling this once-grand house into the sea.

The doctor (Robert Joy) urges Shelah (Phylicia Rashad) to tell her family about her illness in Head of Passes.

( Joan Marcus)

More than most contemporary American playwrights, McCraney reaches for ancient and universal questions: What makes a family? Who pays for the misdeeds of the dead? Is there a God? One can see McCraney's expansive thematic curiosity in the predecessors he references (intentionally or not). Important offstage plot points arrive via messenger, as in ancient Greek drama. "Pour. Oh pour," Shelah implores the sky, Lear-like. As the house crumbles around her, one is reminded of Circe in Toni Morrison's Song of Solomon, a surviving witness of divine retribution for a sin long overdue. McCraney notes in the program that Head of Passes is inspired by the Book of Job, a story of persistent faith in spite of God's cruelty. We can certainly see that in this tale of a religious woman near the end of her life whose faith is tested by unspeakable tragedy.

This magnificence occasionally gives the play a presentational quality. Moments of high drama explode like popcorn from the tiniest, hardest kernels of exposition. The family business, Cookie's drug addiction, and the environmental degradation of the land are given little attention and seem like afterthoughts. Even the family tree (three children mirroring the three arteries of the Mississippi) appears contrived. As with the house in which it is set, one gets the sense that this palatial human drama does not rest on a particularly solid foundation.

Director Tina Landau does her best to fill out McCraney's sketch by crafting believable relationships between the actors. Jelks and Beltran sensitively flesh out a B-plot of filial angst that McCraney abandons almost as soon as he takes it up. Similarly, Arenas gives a memorably unpredictable performance, oscillating between skittish and collected, in a role that is essentially a Dr. Phil cliche: We're led to believe that her drug habit is the result of unresolved childhood trauma, but this seems like a red herring in an age when millions of Americans suffer from opioid addiction and not all of them were subject to horrific abuse. It's a conflation that feels dated and sensational.

John Earl Jelks plays Creaker, Kyle Beltran plays Crier, and Phylicia Rashad plays Shelah in Head of Passes.

( Joan Marcus)

Leading the cast, Rashad serves as a life raft, rescuing the central story from drowning in a stormy sea of confusion. We always know exactly who she is and what her relationship is to everyone else. She impresses with her virtuosity in the second act during a Wagnerian aria of a monologue in which huge swathes of the backstory are dumped on the audience. By the end, we come to understand that Shelah doesn't even know anymore whether she's talking to God, or just to herself.

Landau orchestrates some truly remarkable stagecraft throughout this crisis of faith. Scenic designer G.W. Mercer creates a detailed, realistic enclosed porch that effectively evokes a Louisiana manor. With the help of Jeff Croiter's eerie lighting and Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen's jarring sound cues, he then choreographs its destruction. The earth-shattering first-act finale will leave your mouth agape.

Unfortunately, the realistic water-filled craters onstage aren't quite enough to distract from the massive holes in McCraney's story. Head of Passes has the potential to be the next great American play, but the author needs to shore up the basics first. Of course, I would rather see a boldly ambitious drama fall short than an intentionally modest one achieve its limited goals. There is nothing modest about Head of Passes.
All-New Mazda MX-5 Wins Both 2016 World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year







- The first car to win both titles in the history of the awards -

HIROSHIMA, Japan, Mar, 25 2016; The Mazda MX-5 (known as Mazda Roadster in Japan) has won the 2016 World Car of the Year award. It is the second Mazda to win the award, following the Mazda2 (known as Mazda Demio) in 2008. The third generation MX-5 was one of three finalists for the same award in 2006, as was the Mazda3 in 2014. In addition to taking the main award this year, the MX-5 has also been named World Car Design of the Year. It is the first time in the history of the awards that a single model has taken both titles.

World Car of the Year was established in 2004 by an international group of automotive journalists, and the judging panel this year consisted of 73 journalists from 23 different countries. The MX-5 was announced victorious over other finalists Audi A4 Sedan/Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes-Benz GLC at the New York International Auto Show on March 24. The other finalists for World Car Design of the Year were the Jaguar XE and Mazda CX-3.

"What a wonderful honor, to have the Mazda MX-5 named both World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year," said Masahiro Moro, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations, and Managing Executive Officer, Mazda Motor Corporation. "As our iconic MX-5 roadster approaches one-million units of production, this award is proof that it is as young, vibrant, fun and relevant as ever, and proof that every Mazda looks as incredible as it drives, and drives as incredibly as it looks. While I accept this award on behalf of the company, I do so representing every Mazda employee, retail partner and customer around the world who has ever felt the joy of driving a pure roadster. We say 'Driving Matters' in our advertising,(1) and we prove it in our cars."

Ikuo Maeda, Mazda's Executive Officer and General Manager of the Design Division, said, "I'm very proud to accept this award, proof that our designs can connect with people all around the world. Our new-generation lineup has been designed under the KODO design theme which aims to bring cars to life, and we've continually refined the beauty of its forms. Mazda is a proud Japanese brand and we are determined to continue enhancing our designs moving forward."

The fourth-generation MX-5 is the sixth model in Mazda's new-generation lineup of vehicles featuring the full range of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and KODO-Soul of Motion design. Launched globally in 2015, the model has found favor with customers thanks to its vastly reduced curb weight, human-centered design and "Jinba-ittai" fun-to-drive feel. The new MX-5 has won over 30 awards so far, including 2015-2016 Car of the Year Japan and 2016 UK Car of the Year. The retractable hardtop version of the model, Mazda MX-5 RF, made its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show.

Mazda will continue making cars that are fun to drive, aiming to become a "one-and-only" brand customers will choose again and again.

(1) The "Driving Matters" slogan is used in North America only.

About Mazda Mazda Motor Corporation started manufacturing tools in 1929 and soon branched out into production of trucks for commercial use. In the early 1960s, Mazda launched its first passenger car models and began developing rotary engines. Still headquartered in Hiroshima in western Japan, Mazda today ranks as one of Japan's leading automakers, and exports cars to the United States and Europe for over 30 years. For more information, please visit www.mazda.com
Hey there, time traveller!

This article was published 28/03/2016 (2399 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Rural Municipality of Stuartburn is one step closer to getting a sheep farm in the near future.

Council approved three applications put forth by Canada Sheep and Lamb by a two to one vote on Mar. 17.

Councillor Dan Bodz was the sole vote of opposition. Reeve Jim Swidersky and councillor Konrad Narth excused themselves from the decision due to conflict of interest.

Last April, Pat Smith, the president of Canada Sheep and Lamb Farms, applied for three different planning applications. The first was to rezone a portion of SW 1/4 28-3-8E (six kilometers east of Zhoda) to industrial/commercial. The second was to allow the establishment of an intensive livestock operation. And the third was to vary the required minimum setback in the zoning by-law from 1,180 feet to 680 feet.

In simpler terms, Smith proposed a 945 animal unit (15,000 feeder lambs) lamb feeder operation, which involves construction of ten 32 feet by 704 feet feeder structures, using feed storage for manure, consuming 24,000 imperial gallons of water per day, composting mortalities and using several truck haul routes.

Any objectors have 14 days to voice opposition to the plans, which could send the zoning matter to a municipal board review.

Smiths applications drew 100 people to a public hearing at the Vita Hall on Mar. 8. Several area residents voiced their opposition for the project both in person and via letter. Council also received a petition from residents who sought to have Swidersky and Narth vote on the applications, as they felt their perceived conflict of interest notions were not strong enough. However, this petition was deemed invalid as it did not follow councils petition guidelines.

Last fall, area residents also held a town hall meeting on their own accord to discuss the proposed sheep farm, as many rumours swirled throughout the process.

Since Smiths applications proposed a livestock operation, they were subject to a technical review process by the province. The provinces report, which was presented at the public hearing, found Smith to be in compliance of the process and with no large concerns over his proposed project.

Smith was fined $25,000 last year in the RM of Hanover, after Canada Sheep and Lambs began construction on an expansion to an existing facility before they received the go-ahead from the municipality.

The sheep farm is expected to create about 200 jobs, Smith said at the hearing.
EDITORS NOTE: On Sunday, March 27, it was announced that Jim Harrison died at the age of 78. He was in his study at his home in Arizona working on a poem. The following is an interview conducted with the legend in 2010.

Arguably Americas greatest living authorand certainly our earthiestlives half the year in Livingston, Montana. Its a town grounded in the early 20th-century West, with neon signs on brick buildings and mountains in the background, all crowned by a former train depot that was once the preferred entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

The town is a reminder of a time when authors were respected ambassadors of a mythic America, the dream readers who could shrink large distances with their dispatches, articulate outlaws who could drink and fight and fuck and still file on deadline, drawing a straight line from Jack London to Ernest Hemingway with a thousand wasted wannabees in between.

Jim Harrison steps out of that tradition, but with contempt for its pretensions. He is all appetite and no apologies. And so the author of Legends of the Fall and 30 other books, including The Farmers Daughter (newly released in paperback), is one of the most accessible of modern American writers whose work is filed under literature. He is not locked inside his head but connected to the land and heart and, especially, stomach. For all his freely admitted highs and lows, buoyed by lust and flashes of violence, he keeps the virtues of kindness and forgiveness close. His writing reminds us to try our best to be happy animals in an unsentimental world.

Harrison lumbers into the lobby of Murrays Hotel, his face like a weathered tomato and topped with thinning gray hair, windswept and spiked up at all angles, punctuated by a goatee hanging off his prodigious chin. He is an immediately warm and welcoming presence, offering easy greetings to the woman behind the counter. He has a rasping, rich laugh, and a higher-than-expected voice capped with a flat Midwestern accent courtesy of his Upper Michigan Peninsula background.

People keep saying that everythings getting worse, but when I was your age I had to go through the murders of John Kennedy, Bobby Kennedy, Martin Luther King, early civil-rights marches with workers getting murdered in the South.

Lets take a drive, he says, and we pile into his white Toyota truck with an overflowing ashtray and an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe glued to his steering wheel. He explains the draw of the town, millionaires and people on Food Stamps living on the same street, and they still talk to each other, as we roll over to a park overlooking the Yellowstone River. I cant keep off the river. Its such a beautiful place to be compared to anything else.

One the mysteries of Harrison is how his love of remote American locationswhere his stories almost always take placeis balanced by his times as a scriptwriter in Hollywood hanging out with Jack Nicholson in the 70s, fishing in Key West, and periodic indulgences in New York and Paris. Well I have to have both. If all I did was pretend I was Wilderness Jimmy I would go stale. You know, I fish maybe 100 days of the year and bird-hunt, but if I didnt go to Paris once or twice a year, Id be crazy.

Harrison is working on a new novella and an upcoming novel titled The Great Leader after a 10-year stretch from roughly age 60 to 70 in which he published 10 books. I got Type 2 diabetes, but I recovered very quickly from that. I got used to drinking far less, which exponentially increased my energy for writing. Which it was a problem too, you know After a few years of possible overproductivity, I had to take a break cause I was getting goofy. I was even making up paragraphs when I walked to the mailbox. I couldnt go anyplace without writing it, Harrison explains over a cigarette, alternating between American Spirit Lights and Naturals. Then a couple doctors told me my problem was chronic exhaustion. In other words, I couldnt get rested by sleep. I could sleep 10 hours and nothing I used walking and fishing to re-gather. When youre chronically exhausted, you just have to do something else. You cant recover doing the same thing. He stops to point out a bald eagle landing on a rock in the river.

It seems odd that this most American of writers sees half his income from French book sales. But its only a surprise on the surfacea healthy preoccupation with food and sex are what sets Harrison apart from other contemporary American authors. He is the anti-puritan: I was an evangelical briefly, he said, and then I discovered pussy.

Have you ever noticed the painters tend to be more sensual, and better cooks than writers? And the French, when theyre having lunch or dinner, theyre talking about what theyre gonna have the next day. Whereas food in America is still predominantly a fuel stop. Among his next intended projects is a book on food with his friend, Mario Bataliits mostly going be about our enthusiasms, you knowI dont have time to be snarky.

He takes a dim view of the creeping social conservatism in our culture. My wife and I were married in the 60s, when this neo-Puritanism was definitely not true Although Rex Reed said once that AIDS has done more for sexual fidelity than the Bible, you know. I had a doctor say to me once just dont have anything to do with a girl that hangs out with musicians. Hes probably on the money, if you think of it demographically.

As a newly married guy, I wanted to learn the secret of his improbably durable 50-year marriage. Marriage is survived just on the basis of ordinary etiquette, day in and day out. Also cooking together helps a lot Ive seen all these marriage that failed. Those people are always hollering at each other. That doesnt work. Do you remember the 70s, they had all these empowering groups where you tell everybody everything? That doesnt work in a marriage either. Thats stupid. Thats what the French have figured out, before adding parenthetically, I really think adultery is a sport in France. Ive watched it over the years. Thats just sort of what it seems to me.

But its the compulsion to write that drives him, a non-optional pull from the subconscious. Of his perhaps most famous novella Legends of the Fall, Harrison says, I thought about it for a half a dozen years before I wrote it. When I sat down to write it, I wrote it in nine days and only changed one word. That one was like taking dictation. But I knew the people so well. Just like when I started Dalva I was at the point I was actually dreaming about this person, you know, like the first scene in which shes sitting on a balcony in Santa Monica, listening to the coastal highway, thinking of Nebraska. Your subconscious mind is trying to help you all the time, thats why I keep a journal, not for chatter but for mostly the images that flow into the mind or little ideas. I keep a running journal and I have all of my life, so its like your gold mine when you start writing.

Harrisons writing has an arms-length relationship with pop culturehis stories exist outside it, but the characters punctuate their identity with references. Thats the way we move now, he explains. And as a product of the 60s, music is an important source of inspiration release. Lately, Ive been listening to this Argentine composer, Golijov, who did a record with Dawn Upshaw singing, but everything from that to Merle Haggard. I mean I go across the lines. I loved Los Lobos early on, before they really got popular. The Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd. I also like the Stones, Neil Young. All my years in Key West, about 20 fishing years there, I was haunted by Neil Young. You know, when youre drunk, youre coked, youre stonedthen theres Neil Young: Ive been to Hollywood, Ive been to Redwood.

When the watch hits 4:30, its time to head to a local tavern, where Harrison sits outside and drinks a glass of Absolut on the rocks with a lime, good-naturedly fending off a few would-be hangers on.

On the subject of contemporary politics, Harrison has even less patience for hypocrisy and amplified ignorance. Take the Arizona law, in effect along the southern border where he lives in the winter. This Mexican family that works for me, theyve been in America for 160 years. And the guy says, Does this mean Im gonna have to show some papers? Nobody has papers. See, thats whats wrong with the law. Look, Im outdoors a lot so I get dark. Guess who gets stopped? Ive been pulled over and they ask where are you from? I say Montana. They say, Are you sure? And I say Im reasonably sure Im from Montana, but you know, this is a dream life. You start on this shtick with them and its fun. I mean its profiling, but then Ive got kicked out of three bars for being an American Indian. Which Im not, but they have this idea just dreamt up. Im in this strip club and they say We cant serve you in here, we cant serve Indians, and I start talking about my people. You know I get into it.

Harrisons not the kind to criticize without offering a solution, however. The Arizona border is such hard terrain, the patrol should be on horseback, but they arent. Youve got to go to Montana and Wyoming and Nebraska and recruit a thousand hard-asses on horse if you actually want to catch anybody, the smugglers basically.

Because he is willing to call bullshit on the accepted hypocrisies of our society, by being a poet without pretensions, Jim Harrison is an American treasure. He is a hard-living Mark Twain who doesnt buy into American mythology wholesale but instead keeps faith with the American experience as a witness. Reading Jim Harrison can help you be a better animal, balancing the examined life with unselfconscious enthusiasm for living. He is a direct connection to the dwindling tradition of the literary outlaw, offering a sip of the frontier spirit that says that if you think for yourself and stand on your own feet, youll find yourself in good companywhatever the weather.

John Avlons new book Wingnuts: How the Lunatic Fringe is Hijacking America is available now by Beast Books both on the Web and in paperback. He is also the author of Independent Nation: How Centrists Can Change American Politics and a CNN contributor. Previously, he served as chief speechwriter for New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and was a columnist and associate editor for The New York Sun.
Earlier this month, Chiles lower chamber voted in favor of legalizing abortion in cases of rape, incest, and fatal malformation to the fetusmarking what could be the beginning of repealing one of the strictest abortion laws in the world.

This is historic. The chamber of deputies has brought down the last ideological wall of the dictatorship, lower chamber President Marco Antonio Nunez said, referencing the law as a vestige of Gen. Augusto Pinochets dictatorship, which was responsible for recriminalizing abortion 26 years ago.

Until Thursday, Chile was one of six countries that criminalized abortion in all cases, even rape and incest. Receiving or performing an abortion can land a woman or her doctor in jail for up to five years.

Nevertheless, Chile has one of the highest rates of abortion in Latin Americaand consequently, one of the highest maternal mortality rates as well, with more than 33,000 women admitted to the hospital per year due to abortion-related causes. While an underground network of pro-choice feminists and doctors has sprung up to either provide the procedure in secret, or procure and trade Misoprostol (commonly known as the abortion pill) for women in need on the black market, poorer women frequently resort to inducing an abortion themselves, a time-honoredand dangeroussolution.

Clandestine abortions are carried out in Chile, and will continue, with or without politicians or a law, said Claudia Dides, the director of Miles Chile, a local non-governmental organization that advocates for womens health.

What we want is for abortions to be safe.

Chile has not always had such restrictive laws when it comes to abortion. Abortion was first legalizedalong with the right to vote in municipal electionsin 1931, for women whose lives were in danger from the pregnancy. However, it was once again criminalized in 1989, just before Pinochet left office.

Women are obliged to have the child in all circumstances. It is part of the cross the God gives every human, Jamie Guzman, a close adviser of Pinochet, said in 1980, while advocating for criminalization.

The mother must always have the child, even if this child is abnormal, undesired, the product of rape, or even if having the child will kill her.

It is the Catholic Church hierarchy, left over from the dictatorship era, which has kept abortion criminalizeddespite multiple polls indicating strong public support for decriminalization, particularly in extreme cases such as rape, incest, and potential health consequences for either the mother or the child. The first female president in Chile, President Michelle Bachelet, has consistently advocated for legalizing abortion in cases of rape, incest, and fatal malformation to the fetus since her electoral campaign, but has met with opposition from conservative factions.

Chile has an important legal and public health tradition, that was interrupted arbitrarily in the last days of the dictatorship, she said during an address, referring to the rigid law as a vestige of the Pinochet dictatorship.

Twelve bills [to decriminalize abortion] have been tabled in the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate since 1991.

The next step is for the bill to move on to the Senate, where advocates are hopeful thatdespite the presence of conservative, Roman Catholic pro-life senators who are expected to put up a fightthe left-wing government majority will allow the proposal to progress more than previous proposals, and become a law and a reality for Chilean women.
What do you think the prison sentence should be for a Muslim-American man who stood outside of a Christian church on Sunday during Mass and yelled at worshippers, Im going to kill you all! Before you answer, let me add some more facts. Assume this same Muslim man, a short time before going to that church, had posted horribly anti-Christian statements on his Facebook profile and called for Christians to be eliminated from America. He even posted photos of a homemade bomb on his Facebook page.

Oh yeah, one more fact. The police went to that Muslim mans house and found a device that police described as looking like a possible homemade explosive device, which they detonated.

So what would be the appropriate prison sentence to ensure that this man doesnt actually carry out his threatened terrorist attack, as well as sending a clear message to others thinking of terrorizing Christian Americans?

Would you be OK with 90 days in jail? I doubt it. In fact, I bet many would be outraged. There would likely be headlines about this horrific injustice, and people like Donald Trump and Ted Cruz would be using this incident to further scare Christians about Muslims. The hashtag #ChristianLivesMatter would fill social media.

Yet those exact facts happened in California, except that the man involved was not a Muslim. Rather it was William Celli, a Christian who days after the San Bernardino terror attack stood outside a mosque in Richmond, California, and yelled at worshippers leaving Friday prayer services, Im going to kill you all!

Cellis Facebook page was littered with hate-filled comments about Muslims. In one he demanded that all Muslims be sent back to their country of origin whether or not they were born here. Celli also posted a warning about Muslims to his fellow Christians, Kiss your Christian asses good bye. And all other non-believers of the Koran. You get it. Celli despised Muslims.

Even more alarming is that Celli posted only a few weeks before a photo of a pipe bomb on Facebook that he claimed to have constructed.

The threats of Celli, a self-proclaimed Trump supporter whose Facebook page reads like a Trump speech filled with anti-Muslim, anti-Latino, and anti-immigrant statements, truly terrorized the Muslims at this mosque. As Richmond police Capt. Mark Gagan stated at the time of the arrest, Celli was threatening violence on them, and they were very shaken by it.

The mosques Imam, Hamza Mehter, explained to me that many in the community were very alarmed by the incident. Mehter noted that numerous people called him expressing great concern for their families. And Mehter noted that many parents wouldnt let their kids come to the mosques after-school and Sunday school classes because they feared for the safety of their children after Cellis threats.

Celli was later arrested, although it wasnt until about two weeks after the incident. A subsequent search of Cellis apartment uncovered, per the police, a possible homemade explosive device, which was the device that they detonated. Later the police noted the device was not a functioning bomb because it was missing the explosive elements.

At this point the police, the district attorney and the judge all viewed Celli as a very dangerous man. He was charged with a felony count of making terroristic threats with a hate crime enhancement that carried up to seven-year prison sentence.

The prosecutor assigned to the case, Derek Butts, shortly after Cellis arrest told the judge that Mr. Celli has essentially threatened peoples lives of the Muslim faith. And at his arraignment, the judge imposed a bail far above $47,500 called for by the bail schedule for this charge. Instead she raised it over $500,000 noting that, this is a hate crime.

It would appear that Celli was going to be facing at least a few years in prison.

But then something happened. Members of the local Muslim community who didnt want to go on record noted that the DAs office appeared to not be that interested in prosecuting the case as time went on (although they all praised the police.) Next thing they heard were rumors was that Celli was about to be offered a plea deal of only 90 days in jail and three years probation. The leaders of the Muslim community targeted by Celli weren't even consulted in advance of that deal being formulated. Thereafter, Muslim community members did have meetings with the DAs office, but they were told that the evidence wouldnt support anything more than this deal.

Last week Celli pled guilty and in accordance with the plea deal was only sentenced to 90 days in jail. While many in the community are understandably unhappy with this very short prison sentence, they are also deeply disappointed with how the media has all but ignored this story. Over and over I heard: How much more media coverage would it be if it were a Muslim man threatening Christians at a church?

They are absolutely correct. Scary Muslims get ratings and are used as props by politicians to score points. But when Muslims are the victims, we garner little media coverage. We even hear Republicans claim that anti-Muslim hate crimes and bigotry are exaggerated. You get a sense that to many, Muslim lives simply dont matter.

Mehter noted that a silver lining to this incident was that the mayor and council publicly declared that they stood with the Muslims and even attended a Muslim community event to show their solidarity. Thats great.

The downside is that Celli will likely only have to serve 46 days of the 90-day sentence. That means that in about six weeks, a man who traveled to a mosque to threaten to kill Muslims, who had posted hateful comments about Muslims as well as an image of a bomb, will be back on the street. Lets just hope that the sentence given to Celli is enough to deter him and anyone else who may want to terrorize American Muslims from acting on their violent impulses. If not, the next articles we will sadly see will be about Muslim Americans being injured or even killed by the Cellis of this country.
The Bashar al-Assad regime has burned Syria with artillery, Scud missiles, barrel bombs and sarin gas. According to the United Nations Human Rights Council, it has committed the crimes against humanity of extermination; murder; rape or other forms of sexual violence; torture; imprisonment; enforced disappearance and other inhuman acts. Assad is responsible for the lions share of the violence, but criminal and authoritarian elements in the oppositions Free Army and Islamic Front have contributed to the terror too. And the third forcethe transnational Sunni jihadists, particularly ISIShas murdered surrendered soldiers, opposition activists, journalists and gays, while subjecting religious minorities to forcible conversion or sexual slavery. Syrias ancient heritagemost famously Palmyrahas been pulverized. Somewhere between 300,000 and half a million Syrians are dead. Almost twelve million have been displaced. None of this is pretty.

At the same time, coexistent with the horror, some Syrian communities are practicing democracy, organizing themselves for practical rather than ideological purposes, debating everything, publishing independent newspapers, running independent radio stations, and producing art, music and writing on a massive scale. This much more positive story is largely unknown outside the country. And thats one reason why I, a British-Syrian novelist, and Leila al-Shami, a British-Syrian activist, wrote our book Burning Country: Syrians in Revolution and War.

One of the supposed reasons for the American and British invasion and occupation of Iraq in 2003 was to bring democracy to the Arabs. In Syria in 2016 there are over 400 local councils, most of them democratically elected, and most of us in the West have never heard of them.

Revolutionary Syrian voices have been drowned by war noise, inaccurate grand narratives and simplistic assumptions. Currently under full-scale Russian and Iranian military assault, they are now in danger of elimination. We may well end up with Putins preferred choiceonly Assad and the jihadists left standing. So for the historical record, we should know that another alternative existed, and one of rare intelligence and courage. And for our childrens sake, we need to better understand the escalating Syrian tragedy, and to encourage our leaders to do better.

The extract below is excerpted from the chapter Militarization and Liberation:

In the months and years that followed militarizationmore specifically the scramble for weapons and fundstransformed the revolution from a leaderless movement into a cacophony of a thousand competing leaders, from horizontalism to a jostle of hierarchiesthough horizontally organized committees and councils continued to work, and their work, increasingly focussed on basic community survival, became even more crucial in the absence not only of the state but sometimes of any infrastructure whatsoever. Furthermore, womens role in the revolution was increasingly marginalized. Although womenparticularly Kurdsdid sometimes take up arms, they were largely excluded from the military strugglea male hegemonic domainand the civil struggle became much less visible, although no less important. As indiscipline and opportunist criminality tainted the resistance, and later as jihadism flourished, the regime found an excuse for its already steadily escalating violence, and gradually persuaded many at home and abroad that its survival was the least worst option for Syria and the region.

Still, abstract criticisms of the revolutions militarization miss the point. Syrias revolutionaries didnt make a formal collective decision to pick up armsquite the opposite; rather, a million individual decisions were made under fire. Yassin Swehat puts it like this: It wasnt a choice. Look at Homs. When thousands are praying in a square, peaceful, unarmed, and they are shot at, murderedWhat do you expect to happen next?

Violence has its own inevitable momentum. When residential areas are subjected to military attack, when neighborhoods experience the horror of children tortured to death, when young men are randomly rounded up and beaten, soon they will respond. Before moving on to media work, Ziad Homsi, a thin man with an intellectual demeanor, fought in Douma, in the Damascus suburbs: It was a matter of self-defense. Everyone defended his own home, his own alley. Brigades were formed by the residents of one neighborhood, or by a group of men who worked together. It was a spontaneous process.

According to Assaad al-Achi, the threat of sexual violence in particular pushed people towards arms. Syria is very much a conservative, traditional society. Rape is something that will outrage the people. It is very emotional for them By December 2011 rape had become a standard practice not only in prisons but by the army as well. When it went into towns, the first thing [soldiers] did was go into homes and start raping women in front of their fathers, brothers and husbands.

But perhaps the greatest of all motivators for the armed struggle were traumatization and the thirst for vengeance. When AbdulRahman al-Jalloud left prison he continued to pursue civil revolutionary activities, but he puts this down to his prior political awareness and contacts. Those young men without such a background responded to their torments in a more concrete manner: Ninety per cent of detainees picked up arms as soon as they were released. They had very personal reasons. The fighters I know, their houses were burned, their relatives killed, they were on the run.

In this sense, the militarization was inevitable, and once it had become an undeniable reality, most civil revolutionaries sought to adapt. Some, in the face of the regimes persistence, rethought their non-violent principles. One was Basel al-Junaidi, living in Aleppo: We all expected death. I was scared to shower naked in case a bomb dropped. I saw massacres myself. For example, I saw the aftermath of a barrel bomb. I saw human remains scattered in the street; I heard the screaming. Im trained as a doctor, but I was unable to act. I just stood there, petrified. The West thinks were used to this, but we arent of course. Were like anyone elsewe use computers and cars, not camels and tents. Look, Im a secularist, an atheist A religious person who saw this would want to blow himself up. Even me, if a close family member had been murdered like this, Id certainly have taken up arms. At the start I was totally against militarization. Now I support it. I realize the regime cant be toppled by peaceful means.

In other words, militarization was not solely a natural human response to regime brutality; it also grew from the logical realization that civil resistance was not enough, that the regime would only go if forced. For after months of struggle, not only had sections of the populace failed to mobilize against the regime, somemost of the Alawi community, and the professional/sectarian core of the armywere prepared to actively support it, even to fight and die for it, no matter what atrocities it committed.

Marcell Shehwaro reports: The violence was more than the people could bear. We couldnt answer the question how civil resistance would bring down the regime. OK, they said, we can stick to the Dignity Strikes, but Bashaars being funded from outside. We cant bring down the Iranian and Russian economies! We were offering them nice stories from Egypt while they were burying their dead. They asked, Do you stick to selmiyyeh (peaceful) tactics because theyll bring us victory, or for the sake of the selmiyyeh tactics? We could tell them that the West would see us in a brighter way if we were peaceful, but we couldnt tell them this would bring victory. We couldnt tell them, for instance, how civil resistance would free the detainees. Our stand, therefore, didnt succeed. Every day people died, every single day. So the people armed themselves; they became used to weapons as theyd become used to civil resistance before.

So the firstand seldom mentionedcomponent of the armed resistance was civilian. Every adult Syrian male had undergone compulsory military training; it wasnt difficult, therefore, for terrorized farmers and dentists (as US President Barack Obama would call them) to organize defensive militias.

Alongside these volunteersalthough volunteer is not the wordarmy defectors formed the core of the growing anti-Assad force. Very often they acted as the civilians didthey returned to their home towns, where they organized with their neighbors. These soldiers had been ordered to shoot protestors, and very often did, lest they themselves were shot by the intelligence officers at their rear. A combination of guilt, horror and fury propelled many to escape when they could, but perhaps most were killed in the attempt or hunted down in the following days. Usually they took only one weapon with them; sometimes they managed to break weapons out of stores. In every case they had to be prepared to fight to resist capture. Those who sheltered them had to face the fury too. Zaid Muhammad, a Palestinian-Syrian photographer from Aleppo, expresses the existential urgency of the situation: Soldiers were ordered to kill their compatriots or be killed themselves. It was natural that those who were able to would defect, and the defectors had a right to defend themselves. Should the people have turned these men over to the regime? Of course not. That means the people had to prepare for battle.

Defections mounted as steadily as the regimes repression, worst in Homs, where the Clock Square Massacreas Joly described it, a terrifying, terrible, and a transformative moment, had tolled an early bell for the death of peaceful protest as a realistic strategy.

That was April 18th 2011. The violence continued to mount. April 25th witnessed a second assault on Deraa. The following months saw major operations in Homs and Lattakia. By June, Sunni residents, especially Palestinians from the Raml camp, were fleeing Lattakia for Sunni-majority areas further inland, or to Turkey. Down the coast at Banyas and its Bayda suburb, where nine regime soldiers had been killed in early April (perhaps in violence instigated by out-of-favor Baathist AbdulHalim Khaddam), another cleansing took place in May. Tel Kalakh, a town in Homs province, was attacked in the same month, its inhabitants forced to flee. Such mass expulsions reinforced the need for self-defense; collective punishment meant it was no longer possible to avoid repression by keeping out of politics.

Then the early June 2011 rebellion in Jisr al-Shughour, in the northern Idlib province, and the regimes response, was a watershed moment for loyalists and defectors alike. The town had been tense since the regimes slaughter of 15 workers on May 20th. Then on June 4th, security forces positioned on the roof of the central post office opened fire on a funeral. In response, mourners burnt the building, killing eight officers inside, then seized weapons from a police station. In the ensuing violence, intelligence officers executed soldiers who refused to fire on civilians, provoking a mass defection. A military convoy was ambushed shortly afterwards. More died when the security building was overrun. It was the revolutions first large-scale attack on Assadist forces.

The army returned with helicopter gunships and tanks, chasing the defectors in the next fortnight from Jisr al-Shughour to the nearby town of Bdama and a newly-sprouted refugee camp at Khirbet al-Jouz. A total of 120 soldiers lost their lives; its a matter of dispute how many were killed by revolutionaries and how many by their own officers. An unknown number of civilians were killed too, and at least 10,000 fled across the border to Turkeythe first wave of around two million to follow.

These events hardened positions on both sides. Regime supporters saw them as proof that the civil protests were a mere cover for armed insurrection, and called for an even harsher security response. Revolutionaries were outraged at the regimes open war on civilians, and were inspired by the mass defection, hoping it would be the first of many.

The defection of Lieutenant Colonel Hussein Harmoush was not the first, but was the most widely-noticed and influential of all, introducing a new vocabulary of resistance, specifically the Free Syrian Army label. On June 9th 2011, in what became a paradigm for a thousand similar videos, Harmoush held his ID card toward the screen and declared his defection from the regimes army to the ranks of Syrian youth, alongside a number of the Free Syrian Arab Army. He gave as the new armys purpose the protection of the unarmed protestors demanding freedom and democracy, and condemned the mass killing of civilians, particularly the massacre at Jisr al-Shughour. After reminding Assads soldiers that We have sworn in the army to point weapons only at the enemy, and not at our people, he appealed to all the free people of the world: the people of Syria intend to board the boat of freedom and democracy with bare chests and olive branches, so help them achieve this. He ended his statement by repeating the anti-sectarian slogan One, One, One, the Syrian People are One.
ROME  There is something decisively not right about the Easter Saturday arrest of Djamal Eddine Ouali, a 40-year-old Algerian who was picked up in Bellizzi near the Amalfi Coast town of Salerno on an international arrest warrant for supplying false documents to at least three known terrorists connected to the Paris and Brussels attacks. He was arrested after applying for a permit to stay in Italy using his own Algerian document, which has raised eyebrows in Italy since a false document mastermind would likely be able to give himself a new identityespecially if he was a wanted man.

Anti-terrorism police are now trying to sort out whether he was really naive enough to think that Italians wouldnt double-check his identity, whether he was a scapegoat being used to test the system of surveillance across Europe, or if his own identity was stolen and used to set him up.

No matter what, Oualis arrest Saturday led to the discovery that one of his alleged clients, Khalid el-Bakraouione of the brothers who blew themselves up in the Brussels attackspassed through Italy last summer on his way to Greece. According to police, Bakraoui crossed Italy a few days before another of Oualis alleged false-document clients, Salah Abdeslam, also crossed through the country on his way from Greece.

Just how Oualis alleged role aided in the logistics of terrorism travel is of great interest to counterterrorism officials in Europe who are trying to thwart the next attack. But connecting the dots is proving challenging because officials in Italy concede that little makes sense. Oualis lawyer, Gerardo Cembalo, told The Daily Beast that his client had no idea he was wanted on an international arrest warrant. If he did, why would he use his own document? he said.

Ouali, who is not cooperating with police and who faces an extradition hearing on April 1 to be returned to Brussels, apparently spoke only French to officials and apparently would not respond to questions in Arabic.

Bellizzi, where Ouali was arrested, is a town of around 13,000 people, known mostly for a couple of Camorra crime bosses doing life sentences for a variety of trafficking rackets, including toxic garbage and illegal arms. Its also where Francesco The Beast Matrone, Camorra kingpin and one of Italys most wanted mobsters, was caught hiding out in 2012 after evading authorities for years on the lam.

Ouali, who is a Muslim, was picked up as he left the Sacred Heart Church, where he had spent about half an hour in a pew rifling through his backpack. Luigi Amato, head of the local General Investigations and Special Operations Division known as DIGOS, confirmed to The Daily Beast that local police were on his trail after discovering an international arrest warrant from Brussels issued Jan. 6. The arrest warrant came after raids in Brussels tied to the Paris attacks, in which thousands of digital photos tied to a false-document racket led to an alleged connection to Ouali.

Amato confirms that is around the time in January when Ouali and his pregnant wife, possibly a Belgian woman, crossed the Brenner Pass, a vital border point that connects Italy to Austria. It is the lowest pass in the Alpine region, and it has been used as a crossing point since Roman times. Since there are no border controls in place thanks to the European Unions Schengen Agreement, Ouali and his wife were not stopped and their documents were not checked.

A few days later, they apparently settled down in the nearby and even smaller town of Montecorvino Pugliano, according to the application for a permit to stay in Italy filed in Bellizzi by Oualis wife in February. Permits to stay are generally automatically granted to all pregnant women of any origin in Italy and valid until the newborn baby is three months old. On March 16, Ouali applied for a similar permit to stay to assist his wife, using his own name and Algerian documents.

Because Ouali didnt show up on any electronic database as having lived anywhere in Europe despite listing Belgium as his last residence, authorities grew suspicious and sent a digital photo of him to their counterparts in Brussels to verify then application. It was then, Amato says, that they were alerted that there was an international warrant out for the Algerian man who had been tied to Salah Abdeslam. A few days later, the Brussels attacks also tied him to Bakraoui.

Local police confirm that they also are looking for any ties Ouali may have to an Iraqi man arrested in the same area the day of the Brussels attacks and who is also known to have ties to terrorists in both Paris and Brussels.

But the real web they are hoping to unravel, according to Amato, is why two different terrorists affiliated with two different attacks traveled through Italy last summer. Italian news outlets have reported that Bakraoui flew into Treviso on a Ryanair flight from Brussels on July 23 and flew out of Venice to Athens on July 24. On Aug. 1, Abdeslam instead took a ferry from Greece to Bari and stayed in Italy. He last used a prepaid Italian debit card in Padova on Aug. 6. All the documents were apparently organized by Ouali, according to the preliminary judicial report written by Claudio Tringali, who secured his detention, and who told reporters, He will be extradited. This investigation belongs in Brussels, not Italy.

Still, the search for clues goes on. Local press in Bellizza reported Monday that police were questioning a known associate of Ouali who may have been found through cellphone contacts, though no new arrests have been made. We are not searching for any specific accomplice, Alfredo Anzalone, head of the Salerno police, told local media. But we have certainly found disturbing links with terrorist organizations.
UPPER JENKINSTOWN, Ireland  When my widowed great-great grandmother left her small farm here in March 1853, sailing first to Liverpool and then to New York, she and her children were among the 1.5 million Irish who fled to America during the potato famine.

As was the case with most Irish emigrants, the land she had to abandon in the Cooley Mountains didnt belong to her. She had to pay rent to Lord Clermont, whose vast 20,000-acre holdings were part of the extraordinary confiscation of Irish lands by the British. By 1800, Irish Catholics owned less than 5 percent of the land in Ireland and their plight under British domination, well before the famine, was such that a French anthropologist visiting in 1835 called them more wretched than the Negro in chains.

But if she could come back through time, shed be baffled by modern Ireland, especially now as the North and the South launch a month of elaborate centennial commemorations of the mythic blood sacrifice of the Easter Rising of 1916.

Awkwardly, even though 100 years have passed since a ragtag group of rebels in Dublin tragically failed to pull off a coup against the British, but symbolically sparked the drive toward independence in 1922, six counties containing 1.8 million people remain under British rule.

And whats not being said during all the sentimental ceremonies is that many Catholics in both the south and in British-ruled Northern Ireland no longer seem to care about the lost land.

Recent polls would mystify anyone not steeped in the warped impact of more than 800 years of British rule in Ireland. A joint BBC/RTE poll indicated that only 25 percent of Catholics in Northern Ireland (where for years they were the often-oppressed minority) want unification and only 36 percent of the largely Catholic south favor it right now.

The figures havent changed much since the Belfast Telegraph conducted a poll in 2012 which asked if Irish unity is a dead issue for at least a generation.

Imagine the reaction of iconic Irish revolutionary Michael Collins, who made a name for himself during the Easter Monday insurrection and was assassinated by his own people in 1922 amid anger that hed failed to get northern Ireland included in the Anglo-Irish Treaty that marked the establishment of the Free State that year.

I reckon all those rebels back then would be ragin if they could see us today, says Paul Mitchell, 59, of Ballinasloe in the west of Ireland. When I knew him just 10 years ago he would stand with a hot whiskey in front of his house and point bitterly across the River Suck at the ruins of the English lords estate while railing against the British. But things change.

We dont even want the North anymore, Mitchell says. Its an old issue. I know a lot of former IRA guys who did time in prison and they dont care much now either. When youre younger you fight more. Plus you also see disturbing stuff, like all these English coming to Ireland to retire and they get treated better by the Irish than the Americans who come over.

Catholics in Northern Ireland are loath to give up the financial cushion afforded by life under British rule and such perks as the National Health Service, which is much less expensive than the American-style health insurance system in the south.

Those in the Irish Republic no longer see their Catholic counterparts in the north as comrades, and indeed a recent term, Northern Irish, has taken root in Belfast to describe both Protestants and Catholics. Its a term not discouraged by the once-fearsome Loyalists and Unionists in Ulster and Belfast who know that Catholics may be the majority in the North by the 2021 census and have to figure out more accommodating ways to retain power.

The days when everything was framed by the six-county question is long over, Winston Winkie Irvine, 40, widely reputed to have been a leader in the paramilitary, pro-British, Ulster Volunteer Force in Northern Ireland, told The Daily Beast on Saturday.

The Irish question is no longer about the land, said Irvine, who has been described as a terror boss in some media accounts but now, bizarrely, also works for an NGO in Belfast run by a prominent member of Sinn Fein.

Its about the people, about building relationships. I trace my roots back 400 years here to the Ulster Plantation. I identify as British. Theres not a part of me that feels Irish. But thats OK. People care less and less about those ancient divisions. Ten years ago me working for Sinn Fein royalty would have been unthinkable.

In an era when ISIS has raised the bar on terrorism, the 30-year Troubles between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland that killed more than 3,600 people now seem quaint, almost forgettable to the outside worldalong with the rest of the tangled politics on an island an Irish friend in France calls a floating madhouse.

It still comes as a shock to many visitors, including shamrock-wearing Irish-Americans bused between the Blarney Stone in the south and the Giants Causeway in the north, when their mobile phones suddenly read United Kingdom on the motorway and they need pounds sterling to buy a pint of Guinness at the pub in Antrim or Belfast.

But the border, once filled with snipers and checkpoints is still there even if you cant see it. One possible fallout if Britain votes on June 23 to leave the European Union is the specter of a new, physical international border being erected between the North and the South that could set off long-buried hostilities.

The 1998 Good Friday agreement was predicated on both entities being part of the EU, and Brexit could upset that delicate balance.

The political parties in Northern Ireland are divided on the referendum question, with a major Unionist party on each side of the debate.

The Irish nationalist parties, the Social Democratic and Labour Party and Sinn Fein, want to remain in the EU; pro-British unionists mostly want to leave.

For now, Catriona White, a former child psychologist from Dundalk, like many in both the North and South interviewed for this story, is not bothered by the border that exists today and sees no reason to remove it. She cannot even envision what will happen post-Brexit.

Give Ireland back to the Irish, as Paul McCartney sang in 1972? Ask that question in Ireland today and youll sound positively uncool.

We couldnt care less about Northern Ireland because it doesnt benefit us, said White. There wont be any money in it for us. The South cant afford to take on all those people. We cant afford to give them the same lifestyle they enjoy under the British.

Some of Whites sentiments stem from her wariness of the Catholics of Northern Ireland, especially during the Troubles, which ended with the Good Friday peace agreement in 1998.

Yes, they had very hard lives, but you notice a lot didnt leave for the South, she said. Why? Because there was money to be made. I remember barely making enough to make ends meet and youd read about all these scams in Northern Ireland. Youd see a bus-full of women go up to a big shop in Belfast and thered coincidentally be a bomb scare and theyd run out carrying all these expensive clothes and shoes. Some people lived off false insurance claims. There were so many tricks to living up there even though the conditions were horrific.

Following the money is key to understanding the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland today. Many people on both sides of the border in recent years have profited more from the partitioned country than suffered from itespecially certain members of the once proud IRA.

No one personifies the new Ireland as much as Thomas Slab Murphy. Hes invariably described in Irish media accounts as a ruthless IRA godfather whose farm straddles the border in south Armagh and who reportedly amassed a $50 million fortune through fuel laundering and smuggling pigs, cattle, grain, and cigarettes between the North and Southall while allegedly organizing some of the most violent paramilitary operations during the Troubles.

Though Murphy was recently sentenced to prison for tax evasion, the eternal its complicated status of Ireland is why Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, who denies ever being a member of the IRA himself, backs up Murphys claims that hes a wee farmer by referring to him as a good republican.

Maureen Kelly, 61, who lives just south of the border near the so-called Bandit Country or no mans land of County Armagh, just rolls her eyes at the mention of Murphys name and says that back in the day we would have done anything to get the six counties back.

But now it just doesnt matter, said Kelly, who remembers hearing bombs and sniper fire from her home during the Troubles. We have peace and thats more important than anything. Besides were Europeans now. We can cross the border freely and theres no hassle.

Mairia Cahill, who was raised in a prominent republican family in Belfast and is now a Labour Party politician, says she grew up steeped in the same type of romanticism that came out of the Easter Rising. But no beautiful poetry and writing came out of the Troubles. It was a bloody hard rebellion and thats one of the reasons why there is no real appetite for reunification today.

A spokesman for Sinn Fein, one-time political arm of the IRA, disagreed, insisting that the dream of a united Ireland is still very much alive.

We dont believe that Irish people dont care about Irish unity. In fact the increased vote for Sinn Fein in the recent election is a sign that more and more Irish people want a united Ireland, said Shaun Tracey. We are confident also that we will also see an increase in our vote in the upcoming election in the North.

Sinn Fein was born out of hatred for the British but these days its difficult to find Irish citizens in the South who openly admit to hating Protestantslike an acquaintance in County Louth, not far from the border, who yells about the fg Proddys in front of the fire at his home while his 9-year-old daughter watches him in delight. But of course theyre still there.

Down the road, at the Blue Anchor pub in Bellurgan, one of a pair of brothers recently released from prison after serving time for a series of bomb attacks in London in 2001, blends in with the crowd of other Guinness-drinking locals, declining even an off-the-record talk.

People will tell you they dont care anymore but they still hate the Proddys, they just wont admit it, says my friend. Why would they tell you the truth or talk to you at all? Listen to the ones who dont say anything.

Like the indomitable Adams, whos led the increasingly powerful Sinn Fein party since 1983 and has long since dialed down his revolutionary rhetoric in favor of the more boring but more effective strategy of winning electoral votes in the North and South, Ireland may be playing a long game that no one except those deep inside the system can predict.

Its true, said Catriona White. You cant always trust what the Irish tell you or even what they do. It comes from centuries of pretending to obey the British and then the priests. We learned to say one thing and then do something else. Were sneaky. We live by our wits. Were survivors.
The man who drew a gun at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on Monday previously called himself a prophet of God and once said God commanded him to ask a teenage girl to come live with him.

U.S. Capitol Police said Larry Russell Dawson of Antioch, Tennessee, has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon and assault on a police officer while armed. Dawson, 66, was shot by a U.S. Capitol Police officer and is hospitalized in stable but critical condition, police said.

At a press conference outside the Capitol on Monday evening, U.S. Capitol Police Chief Matthew Verderosa said that at approximately 2:40 p.m. Dawson drew what appeared to be a weapon and pointed it at officers during a routine screening at the Visitor Center. One officer fired and struck Dawson.

The police officer was not injured, contrary to previous reports. A female bystander sustained a non-life-threatening injury during the incident, police said.

Dawson, the pastor of St. Lukes Church outside Nashville, previously wrote on his churchs website that he was leading a movement to urge Congress to raise the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour.

Our assignment is to do the will of God in the Earth, he wrote, citing financial independence as Gods will alongside saving souls.

Dawson said he had been to Washington three times for his mission. One time, on Oct. 22, 2015, Dawson yelled, Im a prophet of God! from the balcony of the House of Representatives.

Dawson then allegedly ran from cops and resisted arrest, according to a police report exclusively obtained by The Daily Beast. Cops cuffed him, accusing him of assaulting a police officer and unlawful conduct at the Capitol.

The Washington Post reported that Dawson missed a court appearance in November, writing in a letter to the court:

I have been called chosen and sent unto you this day. I am not under the law!...Therefore I will not comply with the court order, nor will I surrender myself to your office.

The Gudmestad family was in the capitol visitors center when the incident occurred. They told The Washington Post that they figured out it was an active shooter before they were officially told so by police, from Twitter. There was just yelling, and they told us to get down, and then the officers got us into the theater, Amy Gudmestad said.[9:14] https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/public-safety/gunshots-reported-at-us-capitol-complex/2016/03/28/f1b961ba-f515-11e5-8b23-538270a1ca31_story.html?tid=pm_pop_b

It's not the first time God commanded him to do something.

In 2001, Dawson was fired as a school bus driver in Williamson County, Tennessee, after he wrote personal, suggestive letters to a teenage girl.

Have notice [sic] that you are gaining weight, and I have notice this over the past few days God has brought it to my attention that you may need to see a doctor, possible [sic] you may be with child or pregnant in other words[.] Also God has said that it is going to be necessary that you come to my home and stay for a little while, where I can watch over you during this period of time, the Nashville Tennesseean quoted at the time.

In 2003, Franklin was arrested on the charge of harassment in writing for sending the same girl letters that professed his love for her and his desire for her to become his wife and bear him a child.

Dawson apparently arrived in Washington, D.C., on Monday after spending Easter Sunday in church in Nashville with his daughter, according to a now-deleted Facebook post.

As the incident unfolded on Monday, the Capitol and adjacent office buildings were placed on lockdown, and staff were told to shelter in place before an all-clear order was issued after a half-hour. Many staffers and reporters thought the orders were part of a pre-scheduled lockdown drill held earlier that morning.

The Visitor Center was commissioned, in part, as a response to a 1998 shooting at the Capitol, when Russell Eugene Weston Jr., a paranoid schizophrenic, entered the building and shot and killed Capitol Police officers Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson. All visitors to the Capitol now enter via the underground center and its layers of security.

Violence is not uncommon on Capitol Hill. Last April, a man killed himself outside the building with a single shot, prompting a Capitol lockdown.

In 2013, a 34-year-old woman attempted to drive through a White House security checkpoint, striking a Secret Service agent in the process and leading police on a chase to the Capitol, where she was fatally shot. Her young daughter was discovered unharmed in the back seat of the vehicle after it had been stopped.

Three decades earlier, in 1971, the Weather Underground exploded a bomb in a Senate bathroom. No one was injured. And in 1954, four Puerto Rican nationalists fired 30 rounds from a balcony overlooking the House chambers, injuring five congressman, all of whom later recovered.

In 1835, President Andrew Jackson survived an assassination attempt after leaving a funeral at the Capitol. The gunmans weapon misfired, sparing the president, who then confronted the perpetrator, clubbing him with a cane.

 Additional reporting by Betsy Woodruff from Washington, D.C.
LONDON  At least 72 people were killed and 300 injured by the suicide blast that shook the crowded Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park in Lahore, Pakistan, on the evening of Easter Sunday. Many of the victims were children. A Taliban splinter group called Jamaat-ul-Ahrar has claimed responsibility for the attack that targeted Pakistani Christians without warning. The group is believed to have carried out previous attacks, including the beheading of 23 paramilitary soldiers in February 2014. A spokesman, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said his group wanted to send a message that it has entered Lahore. He then threatened further atrocities.

Yesterdays heartbreaking blasts made this the third time this month alone that Pakistan has been attacked by jihadists. All this just in Pakistan, just in March. And this needs to be understood in the context of the global jihadist insurgency that is upon us: unprecedented in its scale, pluralistic in its leadership, fractured in its strategy, nevertheless inspiring in its central message, and popular enough in its appeal that it is able to move masses.

Again, just in the month of March there have been jihadist attacks in eight different countries, and Im not including the ongoing jihadist civil wars in Afghanistan or Syria, the similar one brewing in Libya, and smaller scale attacks and killings across the world. Turkey, Ivory Coast, Iraq, Mali, Nigeria, and Belgium have all fallen prey to this insurgency.

A jihadist guerrilla war is being waged against world order, and the international community is woefully unprepared to address the problem.

Many still deny this insurgency exists, and it is true that these countries have locally specific factors that contribute to their respective insurgent conditions. Yes, the groups behind these attacks are not under one central leadership, rather they are either affiliates or offshoots of competing jihadist groups.

But they all share one cause.

They are allincluding ISISderived from, or affiliated to just two jihadist groupings: al Qaeda and the Taliban. In turn, jihadists all drink from the same doctrinal well of widespread, rigid Wahhabism. And they share the ideological aims of popular non-terrorist Islamists. They are all unified behind a theocratic desire to enforce a version of Sharia as law over society. Considering that non-violent Wahhabi and Islamist Muslims exist in their millions globally, this drastically increases the potential recruitment pool for jihadists. The insurgency could not succeed were this not so. There is no use in denying it.

For many years, liberalsand I speak as onehave refused to acknowledge the ideology of Islamism. All talk of ideas was seen to be nothing but a neocon line taken directly from the worst excesses of the George W. Bush years.

Ironically, due to this very fear of political incorrectness we wound up repeating many of the mistakes of the neocon era. While we feared to engage in a debate on values with Muslim communities, we tried to restrict the problem to the realm of mere criminality, as something to be dealt with by law enforcement or, failing a solution there, by the militaryand ultimately by war, even if that word went unspoken. Under this doctrine, President Barack Obama developed a secret kill-list, preferring simply to assassinate his enemies, even if they were American citizens, and he has wound up dispatching more drone strikes abroad than Bush ever did.

Anything to avoid discussing ideas.

And so, as this global jihadist insurgency became impossible to ignore, we liberals reluctantly, euphemistically began naming the problem violent extremism. We used nauseating, limp State Department-coined phrases such as al-Qaeda-inspired extremism to refer to what was clearly an ideology. But as the assassination of Osama Bin Laden in his Pakistani hideout proved, we cannot arrest nor shoot our way out of this problem. Defeating al Qaeda was only ever going to give rise to a group like ISIS, because it was not al Qaeda that had inspired extremism; it was extremism that had inspired al Qaeda.

Our failure to recognize this as a civilizational struggleone centered around valueshas allowed the fundamentalist problem of Wahhabism, and the political problem of Islamism, to fester and metastasize. This struggle is an ideological one before it is a military or legal one. Vague platitudes that this has nothing to do with Islammy own religionare as unhelpful as saying that this is the essence of Islam. Extremism certainly has something to do with Islam. Not nothing, not everything, but something.

The Lahore bombing underscores the very religious character of the jihadists fanaticism. This was not about alienation in a European ghetto, or revenge for American and European airstrikes in the Middle East the secular-sounding explanations offered as the motivations of people like those who carried out the Paris and Brussels attacks. Lahore was about pure, vicious religious intolerance, killing Christiansincluding Christian childrenon Easter Sunday because they were Christians and not the kind of Muslims the murderers claim to be.

For years, this kind of brutal intolerance has been cultivated by Pakistans mullah mafia. These blasts came in the context of a March 27 deadline set by an alliance of more than 30 hard-line religious groups demanding that the provincial government in Lahore, the capital of Punjab, withdraw a new womens rights bill that the mullahs oppose. This, after mobs were roused in support of Mumtaz Qadri, an extremist executed last month for killing the man hed been hired as a bodyguard to protect in 2011, Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer. The motive for the crime: Taseer had advocated reform of the blasphemy laws. Now several thousand of these blasphemy inquisitors have occupied a high-security zone in Islamabad to demand, among other things, the implementation of Sharia as law.

So, let there be no doubt. We are in the middle of a struggle against theocracy, and for secular liberal democratic values. Muslims and non-Muslims respectively must join together in that fight. This is why Trumps divisive rhetoric is so unhelpful. Everyone must stand together to discredit Islamism, and to support a reform in Islamic discourse. All of us together are responsible for challenging intolerant, theocratic thinking before it spills over to violence. All of us together are responsible for refusing to allow religion to become the primary bond that divides us from the other.

As Pakistan shows us, this is a difficult, fraught, lifelong struggle that few are yet prepared to face. But face it we must.
In a mathematical squeeze to make up ground in the Democratic presidential race, Bernie Sanders is preparing to ratchet up his attacks on Hillary Clinton ahead of a New York showdown that could establish how easily the party can pull itself back together for the general election.

The Empire State's April 19 primary looms as potentially determinative: A win by Clinton, who is favored, would further narrow Sanders's path, while a loss in the state she represented as a senator would embarrass her and hand Sanders a rationale to continue campaigning until the final votes are cast in June.

Clinton had enjoyed a lead of roughly 300 in pledged delegates, but Sanders narrowed the gap Saturday with victories in at least two of three Western caucuses. In one of the most successful days of his campaign, the senator from Vermont easily won in Alaska and Washington state and was well positioned to carry Hawaii.

To capitalize on his fresh momentum, Sanders plans an aggressive push in New York, modeled after his come-from-behind victory a few weeks ago in Michigan. He intends to barnstorm the state as if he were running for governor. His advisers, spoiling for a brawl, have commissioned polls to show which contrasts with Clinton - from Wall Street to fracking - could do the most damage to her at home.

"We'll be the underdog, but being the underdog in New York is not the worst situation in politics," said Tad Devine, the chief strategist for Sanders. "We're going to make a real run for it."

The intensified and scrappy approach by Sanders comes as Clinton is eager to pivot to the general election. Clinton keenly understands the imperative to unite Democrats for the fall campaign and, thinking that the nomination is nearly locked up, wants to spend the spring building bridges to the Sanders wing.

A potentially ugly primary in New York threatens to derail those efforts. Clinton's advisers are all but urging Sanders to lay off his attacks.

"We're going to run to win delegates and run to win the primary," Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta said in an interview Friday. "We intend to win this thing with a majority of pledged delegates. Senator Sanders is going to have to make up his mind about what he wants to do and what kind of campaign he wants to run."

Podesta noted that Sanders took a more negative turn in the Midwestern states that voted on March 15 - Illinois, Ohio and Missouri - and lost all three. "It didn't work," he said.

Clinton, her aides and her allies in recent weeks have avoided sharply attacking Sanders, wary of saying or doing anything that would make it more difficult to engineer an eventual coming together.

In particular, the Clinton forces have been careful not to be seen as pushing Sanders to quit the race. A group of pro-Clinton senators recently considered writing an open letter to Sanders saying the time had come for him to end his campaign. But when two Clinton allies, Sens. Charles E. Schumer (New York) and Barbara A. Mikulski (Maryland), caught wind of the idea, they persuaded their colleagues to nix it, according to two people familiar with the letter.

Assuming that Clinton stays on course to secure the nomination, her team sees wooing the Sanders coalition as a pressing mission, especially young people and independents, to ensure that they don't sit out the November election altogether. Key would be whether and how soon Clinton wins Sanders's endorsement - and how enthusiastic he is in giving it. Clinton's vocal support for then-Sen. Barack Obama following their divisive 2008 primary helped unite Democrats.

Two popular Democrats currently on the sidelines - President Obama and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Massachusetts) - could help bring the two sides together. David Axelrod, a former Obama adviser, pointed to a third unifying figure: Donald Trump. He noted that Warren last week fired off a flurry of tweets attacking Trump, which he read as an important signal.

"She was sending a message to Democrats that there are bigger things at stake here," Axelrod said, adding: "There probably is going to be a very vivid choice in the general election and one that very much unifies Democrats."

With that in mind, the Clinton team has been trying to foster trust with the Sanders base. Long lines at Arizona polling places last Tuesday led Sanders supporters to speculate online that the Clinton campaign was in cahoots with the Democratic National Committee in creating obstacles for them to vote.

Rather than responding with indignation, Clinton's campaign counsel, Marc Elias, wrote a post on Reddit - in an online public square for Sanders fans - sharing in their outrage and explaining that the lines were the result of Republican-led voter restrictions in Maricopa County.

"What happened in Arizona is bad for BOTH Senator Sanders and Secretary Clinton, and supporters of both campaigns should come together to make sure this is addressed before November," Elias wrote. "By the way, if you're wondering, Secretary Clinton's got a plan to address this, but I'm really not here to plug my boss!"

Clinton supporter Jay Jacobs likened the courtship of Sanders backers to making Thanksgiving dinner. "You can't cook a turkey too fast by turning up the heat," he said. "You've got to cook it at the right temperature for the right amount of time, and it'll come out fine - but you've got to do a lot of basting along the way."

Sanders, meanwhile, is hoping for another win in Wisconsin, which holds its primary on April 5. Sanders won two of Wisconsin's neighboring states - Michigan to the east and Minnesota to the west - and the state's overwhelmingly white electorate and the progressive, reformist roots of Democrats there should give him an advantage.

"If we're going to have a serious shot at the nomination, we're going to have to defeat her in Wisconsin," Devine said.

Sanders then hopes to slingshot into New York, which will award a whopping 247 delegates - second only to California.

In New York, a diverse and pulsating center of Democratic power which has not hosted a truly competitive presidential primary since the 1980s, Democrats are buzzing with anticipation over the showdown.

"Everybody thinks it'll be big," said Hank Sheinkopf, a New York-based strategist and former Clinton adviser. "If the turnout by African Americans is large, Secretary Clinton will win well. If the turnout is not large, she will not win. Is the opportunity with her? Yes. But this is a test. . . . If it's tight, it means the left is still aggravated against her."

The Clinton team is readying for a competitive race and is not taking New York for granted.

"If [Sanders] sneaks up on her, then shame on the Clinton campaign," Axelrod said. "The city is a bastion of progressivism, and there should be pockets of Sanders supporters. . . . But I have to believe that the relationships she's forged there in the last 15 years mean something."

Sanders was born and raised in Brooklyn and plans to highlight his "New York values," Devine said, and the campaign's ads would have "a good feel for the state." Sanders also is likely to go after Clinton over her ties to Wall Street, an issue he has raised for several months now, and Devine said the team is testing attacks on other issues, including fracking.

Sanders wants to ban fracking, the practice of pumping water containing chemicals deep underground at high pressures to release oil and natural gas. Clinton, who has ties to the fossil-fuel industry, says she does not support fracking where it is causing environmental damage - or in states like New York, where it is banned - though she has stopped short of opposing the practice outright.

"The basic frame of his whole campaign - the economy's rigged, the campaign finance system is corrupt - will continue, but there are other issues, as well," Devine said. "Fracking is something New York state has outlawed, and there's a big difference between Hillary and Bernie."

The Clinton team is preemptively crying foul.

"We fully expect him to continue waging a spirited campaign, but it's disappointing he is preparing a fresh round of attacks to use against Hillary Clinton in her own back yard, rather than focusing on how to stand up against the dangerous rhetoric and ideas coming from the Republican candidates," Clinton spokesman Brian Fallon said in an email.

Rep. Steve Israel, D-New York, a Clinton backer, sounded a similar note in an email: "Bernie has every right to stay in the race and bring his campaign to New York and fight hard here. But New Yorkers do not want to see him go on the attack against Hillary when Democrats should be focused on the big threat we face from Donald Trump."

The New York primary, by definition, should draw considerable media attention, but Sanders wants to raise the stakes even higher. His campaign is lobbying the DNC to organize a debate in New York the week before the primary. "We don't mind being the away team in the Hillary home game in New York," Devine said.

The Clinton campaign has objected to having a debate in the state, according to Devine. Fallon declined to comment on debate negotiations.

For now, at least, Clinton's backers are confident that any damage caused by Sanders will not be lasting. "I think this primary is going to make our Democratic nominee even stronger heading into the general election, and I believe Democrats will come together in November," Sen. Sherrod Brown (Ohio) said in an email.

Asked about bridge building, Devine suggested that such outreach was a ways off.

"I'm not great at reading the tea leaves," he said. But he added, "I know Podesta has my number, because he's called it before - and it wasn't to build bridges, in case you're wondering."

Podesta would not characterize his recent conversation with Devine.

"We're in a contest," the Clinton chairman said. "We both understand it."
After 65 years, Raymond McMillian is finally home.

In an interview with the Martinsville Bulletin, several of McMillians family members spoke about their late cousin, who enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly before the start of the Korean War.

According to cousin Ronnie Ashby, McMillian  born Sept. 14, 1930, to Viola and Clarence McMillian  went into the service on Nov. 1, 1948. He was a medic with the Medical Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, eventually rising to the rank of Sergeant First Class.

Ashby said that McMillian found himself on the battlefield during the Battle of Hoengsong, which took place Feb. 11-15, 1951. On Feb. 12 of that year, he stayed behind at Hoengsong to tend to wounded comrades and went missing in action.

On Feb. 19, 1954, he was presumed dead, and his remains were not recovered  at least, not then.

In 2007, Ronnie Ashby said he saw an item in the Martinsville Bulletin that Pat Ross of the Bassett Historical Center was seeking family members of Raymond McMillian. Several family members reached out to Ross, and she connected them with what later became the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, an agency within the U.S. Department of Defense tasked with recovering missing personnel from all past wars and conflicts worldwide.

Ashby and cousin Patsy Roach submitted cheek swabs to the agency to be used in DNA matching. When the agency recovers remains, it can match the DNA of those remains against a bank of DNA from POW/MIA family members to try and establish a match.

Ashby said that in October 2007, he received confirmation that the agency had received the DNA.

And then, on Feb. 3 of this year, the family finally received the big news: 65 years to the month after he went missing, Raymond McMillians remains had been identified, and he was coming home.

I never gave up hope and faith that they would find him, Ronnie Ashby said. It has been one of the highlights of my life.

McMillians remains arrived in the U.S. last week, and his burial was held March 26 at Roselawn Burial Park.

Nancy Strickland of Glade Hill never got a chance to meet her Uncle Raymond. But he still had a presence in her life. Strickland remembered her grandmother opening the door in the morning and peering down the sidewalk, checking to see if her son was on his way home. She did it every morning, and it was the last thing she did at night, too.

She never gave up, Strickland said.

Even though many of his remaining relatives never met McMillian, they certainly heard about him.

They know all about Uncle Raymond, Strickland said of the familys children and grandchildren.

Stricklands daughter, Sam Strickland, said she was told about McMillian as a little girl. She said it was unbelievable and overwhelming to find out the family would finally be able to put him to rest.

You read about history and read about things that happen to other people, she said. But to actually have things come full circle, its just a very bittersweet surreal feeling to have someone you know lay their life down so selflessly at such a young age and to know that that person came from your family  theres really no words to describe how that feels.

McMillians brothers and sisters all have passed away, but nieces, nephews and cousins were in attendance at the services last week, along with veterans, military personnel and Martinsville officials.

Nancy Strickland said she thinks its great that so many veterans want to pay their respects to her uncle.

Hes my uncle  I am honored that he is. But hes coming home to every American, Strickland said. He gave his life for all of us, not just his family.

There are 83,000 missing service members from World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Cold War. The agency operates year-round to identify remains, said Lee Tucker, public affairs officer for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, and average a little over 100 identifications a year.

Each conflict brings its own challenges, Tucker said. In Southeast Asia, the soil is very acidic which can break down remains. With World War II, theyre dealing with such a wide swath of land. And in McMillians case, and thousands of others, they face the challenge of access to North Korea, Tucker said.

When you factor in that were doing this year-round around the globe for multiple conflicts dating back to World War II, its a highly complex mission, Tucker said. But an incredibly important and rewarding one.

In 1992, boxes of co-mingled remains were turned over to the agency by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. They were recovered from a village near the POW camp complex to which McMillian was believed to have been sent. And in a 2000 agency operation, more remains were recovered.

In the Korean conflict alone, there are roughly 8,000 still-missing service members. When the agency is able to reduce that number and share the information with the family, its a feeling like no other, Tucker said.

Thats ultimately why were doing this, he said. Theres no greater feeling than being able to provide closure to an individual who hasnt had answers. They dont know whats happened to their loved one.

McMillians name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Medical Badge, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

Writer Casey Fabris contributed to this story.
The Franklin County Board of Supervisors recently voted to contribute up to $5,000 toward efforts by the Franklin County Equestrian Club (FCEC) to build a new arena on county-owned property along Sontag Road.

Specifically, the money will be used toward preliminary work, such as completing an application for a commercial driveway permit as required by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and determining whether a turn lane should be installed based on traffic patterns in the area.

Deputy County Administrator Chris Whitlow said he did not know if the county will provide the money directly to the FCEC or if the club will have to send the county the bill for the work.

According to the boards report, some FCEC members examined whether an arena should be developed at the Franklin County Recreation Parks fairgrounds, but an appropriate site could not be found there due to topography and space requirements.

The arena likely would be used for livestock shows, as well as equestrian events, the report indicates.

The location on the north side of Sontag Road across from the park has since been identified as one that could accommodate an arena. VDOT determined that a commercial entrance permit would be needed for access to the property, even though it already has grandfathered special event parking as an allowable use there.

An engineering firm with which the FCEC has consulted has determined that it will cost between $1,000 and $5,000 to complete VDOTs required permit application. That range does not include costs to make any changes to the propertys entrance that VDOT might require, the report mentions.

Whitlow did not have further information on the clubs plans for the arena.

The projects in the early stage of exploration, he said, adding that the driveway and turn lane matters are an initial step in the process.

FCEC President Patricia Wray said the equestrian club will pay for construction of the arena.
Here are ideas for what you can, and should, plant in the fall
HARTFORD  Laying off state employees may not initially produce as much budget savings as Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and legislative leaders would like as they attempt to balance Connecticut's budget.

When those workers are separated from state service, they'll be entitled to reimbursement for their unused vacation time.

Currently, there's a balance of that unused time across state government totaling more than 6 million hours, according to data provided by the Department of Administrative Services at the request of The Associated Press. That's an average of 177 hours per state employee.

With the average state worker earning roughly about $1,300 a week, that 177 hours could potentially cost the state nearly $6,000 per employee laid off, depending on the individual employee.

"It's clearly an offset," said Ben Barnes, Malloy's budget director, who hopes the final figure will be less than the average of 177 hours. Considering those losing their jobs will likely have less seniority and therefore less accrued vacation time, he said, "people are likely to be well below the average." DAS also stressed how the average number of accrued vacation time might overstate the impact and not accurately predict what will happen.

John DiSette, president of the Administrative & Residual Employees Union, AFT Local 4200, said the lost savings goes beyond accrued vacation pay. He said there are other "hidden costs" of layoffs, including unemployment compensation, state-subsidized health care for workers' children, food stamps and possible retraining if the workers are called back for another position.

"They may account for that vacation time. They may have adjusted for that. But you know they haven't adjusted for unemployment. You know they haven't adjusted for state medical costs," he said. "They're clearly adding expenses they're not accounting for. There are better choices. There are better ways to do this. I don't think they've given it enough thought."

Barnes acknowledged the anticipated state employee layoffs could cost the state money in the current fiscal year because of the accrued vacation payouts. But he contends the job cuts will eventually save money in the budget. He and Jeffrey Beckham, the spokesman for DAS, both noted how the state won't have to pay that employee's salary in the new fiscal year or in future fiscal years. The current fiscal year ends June 30.

"While the impact of an accrued time payout might lessen any savings in the first year, certainly the longer term budget picture ... would be helped by any reduction in force," said Beckham.

Malloy said last week his administration is moving ahead with plans to impose a "substantial" number of job cuts, with an eye toward completing layoffs by June 9th in order to provide the maximum amount of savings for the new fiscal year. Because Connecticut pays its workers three weeks in arrears, someone working on June 9 would be paid in July, the start of the new fiscal year.

It remains unclear exactly how many state employees will receive pink slips. Barnes said the final figure depends on several factors, including the amount of open positions that will remain unfilled and the number of workers who retire. It's been estimated that approximately 1,900 state jobs in total will eventually be eliminated over this fiscal year and next to help address Connecticut's financial problems, but that figure could change.

The current fiscal year is at least $220 million in deficit while the new fiscal year is projected to be $900 million in the red. Each year's budget is roughly $20 billion.

If a large number of people decide to retire, those savings could also be reduced by the cost of another accrued benefit -- sick leave. Unlike laid-off workers, those who leave state service voluntarily are eligible to receive accrued sick time. According to DAS, there is currently a statewide balance of accrued sick leave totaling 16,634,895 hours, or an average of 391 hours per worker.

When an employee retires from the state, they receive payment for their vacation leave balance as well as one-quarter of their sick leave balance, up to a maximum of 60 days in most cases, Beckham said.

To address the issue of accrued vacation and sick time in the past, when Connecticut offered retirement incentives in 2009 and 2003, the back compensation was parceled out over several payments. Malloy, however, has stressed repeatedly that he does not support a retirement incentive to help reduce the workforce.
To the Editor:

In today's print edition is a letter by Rollo Giannini claiming that Hillary Clinton was fired from the Watergate investigation. A quick Google search shows this is a false accusation. "However, whatever Zeifman may have thought of Hillary and her work during the investigation, he was not her supervisor, neither he nor anyone else fired her from her position on the Impeachment Inquiry staff (Zeifman in fact didn't have the power to fire her, even had he wanted to do so), his description of her conduct as "unethical" and "dishonest" is his personal, highly subjective characterization, and the "facts" on which he bases that characterization are ones that he has contradicted himself about on multiple occasions."
WASHINGTON  After the Brussels murders, and the Paris murders, and the San Bernardino murders and dozens of previous, tragic iterations of innocent blood on the sidewalk, the two leading Republican candidates for president propose to finally get tough on terrorism.

In Ted Cruzs view, America is voluntarily surrendering to the enemy to show how progressive and enlightened we are. He would have us carpet bomb the Islamic State and patrol and secure Muslim neighborhoods before they become radicalized here at home.

Look, says Donald Trump, were having problems with the Muslims. He would knock the hell out of ISIS, close the border to Muslim immigrants until we figure out whats going on, do a lot more waterboarding, and purposely target the families of terrorists (at least until he seemed to backpedal).

The argument advanced by Cruz and Trump is straightforward. Out of an excess of political correctness, America has not recognized and confronted the Islamic nature and motivation of terrorism. This, according to the candidates, has hamstrung U.S. law enforcement, counterterrorism and border-control efforts, which should include the heightened scrutiny of Muslims. The migration of Muslims presents a particular, Trojan-horse threat, illustrated by the European experience of segregation and radicalization. This all happened, argues Trump, because frankly there is no assimilation.

The emotional urgency of the Republican front-runners is understandable, particularly in light of President Obamas underreaction  a statement about the Brussels attacks of less than a minute, followed by some Cuban baseball. The terrorists  who worship death, fashion bombs out of young men and women and exploit Islam for totalitarian political purposes  deserve our outrage.

But here is the problem. Rhetoric that targets the Muslims and singles out Americans for suspicion based on nothing more than their faith seriously complicates the war against terrorism, for these reasons:

(1) Anti-Muslim rhetoric strains relations with Sunni Muslim countries, which we are trying to convince to do more to combat the Islamic State. The leadership of these countries, former acting CIA director Mike Morell told me, understand American politics enough to know that, for now, this is just rhetoric. But their publics do not get that. And it is the perception that acts to limit what these nations can do overtly to support the U.S.

(2) It amplifies Islamic State propaganda that the West is conducting a religious war against the caliphate, which is a source of terrorist morale. It certainly feeds extremist recruitment, says Morell, but it also makes even moderate Muslims wonder if the extremists may be right.

(3) Anti-Muslim rhetoric needlessly disrupts relationships with American Muslim communities that are often the first to recognize and report radicalization in their midst. From the perspective of American Muslims, according to former national security adviser Stephen Hadley, the rhetoric creates a sense of alienation from their fellow citizens and makes them more susceptible to the [Islamic State] argument that they have no real place in American society  and that their true home is in the caliphate.

In a sense, Trump is right. Assimilation is the key. But by what possible theory of assimilation should America declare Islam to be inconsistent with its ideals?

If our objective were to replicate Europes dangerous social segregation, what would we do? Maybe conduct the war against terrorism through war crimes; screen for Muslims at the airport (by some mechanism that still escapes me); declare the Muslim faith a target of heightened suspicion; occupy Muslim neighborhoods with a heavy-handed police presence; encourage anti-Muslim attitudes that could easily devolve into hate crimes and violence.

It is no mystery how resented people become resentful. This ugly rhetoric risks stoking the kind of alienation here that we have seen in some European Muslim communities, former Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff told me.

There is room to strengthen the U.S. immigration system in light of terrorist threats  to tighten the visa and passenger-list systems, and ensure FBI access to information on the smartphones of terrorists. But lets not forget [that] what makes us vulnerable, says Peter Feaver, a former adviser at the National Security Council, is not the presence of immigrants in our midst. Rather what makes us vulnerable is the degree of alienation within any community, including immigrants.

Alienating Muslim allies, scapegoating Muslim citizens and resigning ourselves to a global religious conflict would grant the terrorists a victory without a battle. Which makes Trump and Cruz either quite cynical or alarmingly oblivious.
At the beginning of his presidency, Barack Obama traveled to Cairo, Europe and the United Nations to apologize for past American actions and attitudes, which he claimed helped create divisions between countries. At a town hall meeting before a mix of French and German citizens in Strasbourg, France on April 3, 2009, the president said the United States was partially to blame for increased tensions with Europe following the Iraq war: there have been times where America (has) shown arrogance and been dismissive, even derisive toward Europe.

Mitt Romney and other critics quickly dubbed these and similar remarks his apology tour.

With the presidents visit to Havana, Cuba, that tour has come full circle. In response to a question about Cubas human rights policies during a joint news conference, Cuban President Raul Castro criticized the United States for what he asserted was Americas violation of human rights. Castro engaged in a form of moral equivalency when he asserted that the denial of health care and education for all and equal pay for women was somehow similar to the jailing of political dissidents. Castro claimed Cuba pays women the same as men. Yes, and it is called equally shared poverty, which is a good definition of the communist form of government and its economic policies.

In response to this smear, President Obama said, I personally would not disagree with him. Score another propaganda victory for communist Cuba.

Responding to a reporters question about political prisoners, Castro seemed to channel Baghdad Bob, the spokesman for Saddam Hussein, who claimed U.S. forces were not in Iraq as TV cameras showed them advancing on Baghdad behind him. Castro denied Cuba holds political prisoners, but then told another reporter, ...give me a list of the political prisoners and I will release them immediately.

The reporter didnt have a list, but several human rights organizations do. Given Cubas record of oppression (an estimated 50 human rights advocates were arrested prior to President Obamas visit and a women in white demonstration was broken up by police), the release of anyone from Cubas notorious prisons is about as likely as a democratic political system sprouting up in the country to challenge the communist dictatorship.

President Obama promised aid to Cuba, from help in connecting its citizens to the Internet, to trade. Business leaders who accompanied the president on the trip are anxious to build hotels and conduct other business in Cuba. The upside of this is that it might produce more openness in a society that has been closed for more than 50 years. The downside is that any prosperity will be used by the Cuban government to underwrite revolutions throughout Latin America; just as giving Iran its frozen assets will most assuredly facilitate the growth of terrorism throughout the world.

While the light of democracy can dispel the darkness of dictatorship, a light can be extinguished if its power source dims. So far, the U.S. has received nothing in return for the presidents initiative and his claim of a new beginning in the U.S.-Cuban relationship.

The new beginning President Obama pledged for the Middle East in his Cairo speech has not reversed or even slowed the old turmoil that never seems to end. Will it be different in Cuba? From Raul Castros remarks and the presidents partial agreement with him, the signs do not provide cause for optimism.
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!
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Linkedin Tama Salim (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

House of Representatives Speaker Ade Komarudin says legislators will be able to pass the tax amnesty bill shortly after they reconvene in early April, paving the way for the unprecedented repatriation of billions of dollars kept overseas by wealthy Indonesians.



In a recent interview with The Jakarta Post, Ade expressed optimism that technical deliberations on the bill would be concluded within two weeks or a month at the latest, despite the possibility of opposition from factions opposed to the controversial tax repatriation scheme.



The Golkar Party legislator asked the public to take his word for it that the bill would be ready before legislators and the government began to discuss proposals for the state budget revision (APBN-P) in June.



'I can assure you, it's a done deal', Ade said, unwilling to reveal the political process behind the legislative enterprise.



'The political process behind this is like the manufacturing process in a tofu factory. There's no need to know how the inside works. It's dirty and disgusting. What you need to know is that once the tofu is done, it's good.'



Deliberations of the tax amnesty bill, which will incentivize those Indonesians storing illicit cash overseas to repatriate their money, were delayed from the House's previous sitting, raising concerns over the ability of the government to collect enough revenue to deliver on its major infrastructure promises.



'We've already struck a deal with the government after talking to the finance minister,' Ade said, hinting on the important role that Finance Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro played in securing the vote from House leaders.



Ade, a staunch ally of President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo and the strongest candidate to lead Golkar, lauded the finance minister as a 'smart and humble' man capable of challenging the wits of legislators when it came to the tax amnesty scheme.



'Bambang knows how to communicate with the legislative body. He knows the ins and outs of our communication with the Cabinet,' he said.



He acknowledged that political will remained a hindrance in the deliberation process, saying that it might come down to a majority vote in a plenary meeting to pass the bill into law. Ade, however, pledged that the deliberation process would remain open and transparent.



The tax amnesty plan, which is expected to be implemented later this year, will pardon tax evaders and hopefully lead to the fund repatriation.



The government will slap a penalty of between 1 and 6 percent on the repatriated assets and unreported domestic assets ' far lower than the 30 percent income tax rate applied to certain individual taxpayers.



Revenues from the penalties are estimated to reach between Rp 100 trillion (US$7.51 billion) and Rp 200 trillion. It is thought that this figure will be almost sufficient to plug this year's estimated Rp 290 trillion budget deficit.



In the longer term, it is hoped that an estimated Rp 4.1 quadrillion ($307.5 billion) worth of assets hidden both overseas and domestically can be used to broaden tax base and boost tax revenues.



With the fate of the amnesty bill likely assured, Ade indicated that the House would be given leeway to propose an increased budget to fund a number of postponed legislative projects this year, including the ambitious plan to build Southeast Asia's largest public library within the House complex.



According to the Golkar politician, the new library will boast lots of space that, if needed, will also be able to accommodate legislators and their staff.



Center for Indonesia Taxation Analysis executive director Yustinus Prastowo said that, rather than seeking political interests, the government and legislators should seek an agreement based on reason, pointing out the positive impact that tax amnesty would give to the country.



'The policy exchange between the government and the House seems superficial. The House needs to understand that the tax amnesty draft bill will benefit the country,' he said. If applied, the regulation will bring back money stored by Indonesians overseas in tax havens such as the British Virgin Islands and Singapore.



'I think the regulation will be effective in increasing the country's revenue. It is not only the wealthy, but medium enterprises too, that will be asked to pay taxes,' Yustinus added.



Meanwhile, Gadjah Mada University economist Tony Prasetiantono said that while tax amnesty was unfair to compliant taxpayers, the practice was commonly done in other countries.



'Other than being an additional source of income for the state budget, the repatriation of funds parked overseas could add to foreign exchange reserves that could stabilize the rupiah,' he added. (adt/wny)

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Linkedin Julhas Alam (The Jakarta Post) Dhaka, Bangladesh  Mon, March 28, 2016

Bangladesh's top court rejected a 28-year-old petition Monday to remove Islam as the official religion of the Muslim-majority South Asian nation.

The decision by the three-judge High Court panel had been widely expected. The court said the 15-member group that filed the petition in 1988 has no legitimacy because it was never registered with authorities.

Government lawyers said the court's rejection means that Islam will remain Bangladesh's official religion, and that equal rights for minority religions guaranteed by the constitution will not be affected.

The government's lead lawyer for the case, Murad Reza, who had opposed the petition, praised the court's decision.

Islam was declared Bangladesh's state religion in 1988 by military dictator H.M. Ershad in a bid to win popular support while major political parties campaigned to oust him from power. He resigned amid mass protests in 1990.

The country's current leader, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reintroduced secularism as the political standard in a 2011 constitutional amendment, but continued to support Islam as the state religion.

Leaders of the local Islamist group Hefajat-e-Islam said they were happy with Monday's court decision. Members of the group who had gathered outside the court held two fingers up in a V sign for victory.

"We thank the court on behalf of the nation for rejecting the petition," said Fazlul Karim Kashemy, a Hefajat-e-Islam leader. "Muslims and non-Muslims in our society have been maintaining good relationship for long."

Bangladesh's largest Islamist political party, Jamaat-e-Islami, had called for a nationwide general strike on Monday to demand the petition's rejection, but few heeded the call to strike.
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Linkedin Prima Wirayani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Conventional taxi companies can expect to hit a few potholes in the future as competition with app-based transportation companies such as Uber and Grab is projected to become tougher.



The arrival of the ride-hailing apps has adversely affected publicly listed PT Express Transindo Utama (TAXI) and PT Blue Bird (BIRD) as customers prefer the cheaper and more convenient services offered by the apps, said Koneksi Kapital analyst Alfred Nainggolan.



In the future, if Uber and Grab continue operations, it will be almost certain that investors will adjust their revenue, net profit and margin projections for Express and Blue Bird, he added.



'These two companies dominated the taxi industry before the ride-hailing apps started gaining popularity,' he said.



Express had a fleet of more than 11,000 vehicles in 12 cities in Sumatra, Java, Bali and Lombok as of 2014, with a market share of around 15 percent of the national taxi market, according to company data.



Meanwhile, Blue Bird's fleet amounts to over 32,500 vehicles in more than 15 cities across the country, controlling approximately 43.5 percent share of the taxi market.



Alfred predicted that Express would suffer more than Blue Bird as the former is currently experiencing lower fleet utility due to a high rate of driver resignations. Express's utility rate went down to 70 percent last year from 90 percent in 2014.



Investa Saran Mandiri analyst Hans Kwee said that with lower consumer purchasing power amid the general economic slowdown, the public would opt for cheaper services. 'The conventional taxis' business sizes will be smaller with the developments in public transportation,' he added.



Express' financial statement showed that the firm suffered a 12.69 percent year-on-year (yoy) decline in revenue to Rp 721.41 billion (US$54.26 million) as of September last year while net profits nose-dived by 89.84 percent to Rp 11.08 billion.



Its stocks have lost around 81.82 percent of its value in the last year from its peak of Rp 1,155 recorded last April, reflecting investors' lack of confidence in the company's financial performance.



Bahana Securities analyst Yudi Tandi Anugrah wrote in an analysis that his firm was of the view that pressures from ride-hailing apps on both Blue Bird and Express would continue. 'At this stage of the cycle, we expect continued intense competition and fewer drivers to restrict expansion and revenue growth, leading us to affirm our sector 'underweight' stance and reduce ratings of BIRD and TAXI,' he wrote.



Hans of Investa Saran Mandiri said that in order to survive the burgeoning competition, conventional taxi companies had to innovate their businesses, including by improving their services to provide efficiency for customers.



He added that the government should also implement more equable fare structures for the transportation companies as the ride-hailing apps offered subsidized tariffs resulting in cheaper prices.



Last Tuesday, some 12,000 conventional transportation drivers staged a protest accusing the government of failing to regulate the increasingly popular app-based transportation, thus hitting their incomes.



However, Blue Bird commissioner Noni Sri Ayati Purnomo said her firm's drivers might feel their incomes had declined but the company's had not.



'Corporate wise, we are growing,' she said.



Blue Bird's financial report showed that the firm booked a 17.44 percent growth yoy in revenues to Rp 4.04 trillion as of September last year while its net profits jumped by 16.43 percent to Rp 625.42 billion.

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Linkedin Callistasia Anggun Wijaya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Jakarta administration plans to boost social programs and enforce the law more effectively to prevent children being exploited and trafficked, in the wake of a crackdown on a street children's syndicate, Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama said on Monday.



The city's social affairs office would intensify monitoring and raids against the exploitation of children in the capital, including the possible misuse of city-supported facilities such as the Jakarta Smart Card, Ahok said. He feared that parents would use the funds for purposes other than sending their children to school.



The administration plans to build more orphanages and boarding schools to facilitate street children's rights to housing and education.



"We will make a secular facility that is like an Islamic boarding school that can accommodate around 2,000 children so the [street] children can go to school," he told journalists at City Hall on Monday.



The development will be overseen by city-backed Islamic education center, the Pondok Karya Pembangunan Foundation.



Moreover, the outspoken governor plans to remove the city's 'three-in-one' traffic congestion scheme, which requires private vehicles to carry at least three people at certain times. People known as jockeys work as passengers for hire during the morning and afternoon rush hour, and many also bring their young children along.



The city has strongly urged people not to give money to beggars or street children and to instead donate to foundations, social agencies or orphanages to break the cycle for street children in Jakarta. To support the move, the administration will also prepare effective legal enforcement to fine people for giving money to beggars, as stipulated in city regulations.



However, the absence of sufficient CCTV units in Jakarta has hampered the monitoring of the implementation. CCTV, Ahok explained, would help in providing evidence that citizens and beggars had violated regulations.



The case surrounding the exploitation of street children arose after South Jakarta Police named four people as suspects for child exploitation and trafficking. In the crackdown, police removed 20 children who had been forced to work as beggars and buskers on the capital's streets.



Police also found that a six-month-old baby had been given high doses of sedatives to prevent it from crying when the parents took their child to the streets for begging. (rin)(+)
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Linkedin A. Kurniawan Ulung (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

For author Fahd Pahdepie, writing is not merely a passion. It is a way of life.

The eyes of the 29-year-old writer lit up with excitement when he greeted his audience, mostly women, during a recent meet-and-greet event in Jakarta.



During the question and answer session, a young lady threw out a question about his latest novel, Jodoh (Soulmate).



'What is the definition of a soulmate? How can we know that the one that we love is our soulmate?' she asked.



The answer is actually available in the novel.



Published by Bentang Pustaka late last year, Jodoh brings the reader into the love story of a man who tries to convince the woman he loves that she is his soulmate.



'About 65 percent of the content of this book is taken from my personal experience, while 35 percent of it is fiction,' Fahd said of Jodoh.



Fahd cannot deny that the novel is actually about the journey of his own love story, but he tells it in a witty way.



For example, he fell in love for the first time when he was in the first grade with a classmate at elementary school, a kind of experience popularly called cinta monyet (puppy love). They sat at the same table and he never stopped stealing glances at her.



The way she walked, ran, wrote, drew, smiled, laughed and everything else she did meant the world to little Fahd.



By sharing such moments in Jodoh, Fahd does not aim to influence elementary school students in dating. However, he wants readers to think that cinta monyet, usually seen by many people as unimportant and unserious, is probably a sincere love because it happens unconditionally.



He says the way adult people love each other is often not sincere because they set specific criteria, such as having a bachelor's degree and a proper job, something that children or teenagers would not ask or demand of their partners when they are in love.



'It is interesting to contemplate whether the man or woman we have married in life is our true love,' says the father of two who tied the knot in 2009 when he was 23.



Fahd hopes that Jodoh, which he wrote for a year while studying in Australia, can help singles find their love and end a messy state of mind caused by confusion, restlessness or insecurity.



'The target of Jodoh is young people who still question what the notions of love and soulmate mean. Love is complicated because it is about feeling. Meanwhile, the notion of soulmate is about decisions that we make,' he said.



Fahd, who has written more than 15 books, has worked as a productive writer since he was a senior high school student in Garut, West Java.





'For me, being a writer is not a profession. I write because I love,' he said.



He is not motivated to make money from writing and considers it a bonus if his work gets published.



For Fahd, writing is a larger-than-life activity that gives him space to express what he sees and feels in a real life and to play with his imagination.



Fahd only has eyes for writing and he is very serious in his choice. Last year, the graduate of Australia's Monash University, majoring in international relations, resigned from the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) after having worked as a civil servant since 2009, a decision that at first disappointed his wife.



She later understood his decision after he explained that being civil servant was not his passion.



Fahd has received various awards, such as the 2005 Best New Writer award by Bandung-based publishing house Mizan for his first book, Being a Superstar, a motivational book for teenagers. A year before, UNICEF selected him as one of 20 writers for the UNICEF Young Writer Award.



However, learning is a never-ending process for Fahd, who is also a former lecturer at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta.



He likes to discuss, read and learn from the work of other writers, such as the legendary poet Sapardi Djoko Damono, who was known for his skill in exploring simple words to deliver his ideas, and noted Muslim figure Emha Ainun Nadjib, who can drive his readers to contemplate their lives through his jokes and clever writing.



Currently based in Jakarta, Fahd now leads a communications consulting firm named Inspirasi.co, which also runs a website of the same title. The company accommodates the work of writers, designers, photographers, videographers and other workers in the creative industry.



Fahd is now trying to finish a new book slated to be released in the middle of this year.



He says that he is always curious about the response of his fans every time he releases a new book.



Fahd also has no special formula for being a productive writer. 'The recipe is reading many books and having enough sleep,' he says.

Jodoh (Soulmate)

by Fahd Pahdepie

256 pages

Bentang Pustaka, 2015
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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Criminals sentenced to more than 15 years in prison should be moved to a prison on Nusakambangan, Central Java, in order to ease overcapacity problems in prisons, a legislator has said.



Aziz Syamsuddin, a member of House Commission III overseeing legal affairs, made his remarks in response to the riot at Malabero state detention center in Bengkulu on Friday night. The riot claimed the lives of five people.



The incident has generated concerns about overcrowding in prisons. "The budget [to expand the prison island] has to be allocated. It's better than spending money on rebuilding the damaged buildings," said Azis on Monday.



Nusakambangan holds a number of maximum security prisons that house terrorists and drug convicts. Nusakambangan made headlines recently after 14 drug convicts were executed there last year.



House Speaker Ade Komarudin agreed that some convicts ought to be sent to other prisons across the country to ease the problem of overcapacity.



"If the detention center is too crowded, the detainees should be moved to other places," Ade said on Monday.



"But the House and the government should also consider adding more detention centers to prevent this from happening again in the future."



According to the Institute for Criminal Justice Reform, the number of inmates imprisoned in the country has doubled from 71,500 in 2004 to 144,000 in 2011. Meanwhile, the capacity of the country's detention centers has increased less than two percent in the same period.



House Commission III plans to meet in April with the Law and Human Rights Ministry, the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and the National Police to discuss the matter further. (vps/bbn)(+)
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Linkedin Farida Susanty (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The government aims to complete the establishment of a single tourism management authority for Lake Toba in North Sumatra, among the country's priority tourist destinations, by the end of the month.



The single authority would be the first established among nine selected destinations, including the Thousand Islands in Jakarta, Morotai in North Maluku and Tanjung Kelayang in the Bangka Belitung Islands.



The establishment would be in the form of presidential decree, currently being finalized by the Law and Human Rights Ministry.



'Our current weakness is coordination. The tourist spot has not been managed well,' the Tourism Ministry's priority tourism destination development task force head, Hiramsyah S. Thaib, said over the weekend. Hiramsyah said the ministry aimed for the management to replicate the success of the Nusa Dua resort area in Bali, where a single management was formed under the Bali Tourism Authority, which had seen the area flourish into a meeting, incentives, convention and exhibition (MICE) area.



Tourism Minister Arif Yahya said previously that one of the main problems hampering the development of some tourist areas was overlapping authorities overseeing the same area.



'With this single authority, the government will help with the accessibility of the area,' he said.



The body would have an authoritative right over 500 hectares of land around one of the world's largest volcanic lakes, while it would also have coordinative authority over 300,000 hectares in the tourist spot, in cooperation with local administrations.



The body's area of development would include the construction of infrastructure, such as roads, a port, access to clean water, internet and the development of key natural and man-made attractions.



Hiramsyah said the main problem with Lake Toba was the lengthy time to reach the area, dubbed the Monaco of Asia, from Kualanamu International Airport in Medan.



The ministry is pinning its hopes on the under construction Medan-Kualanamu-Tebing Tinggi toll road to further provide ease of accessibility to the area. The toll road is slated to complete construction in 2017.



National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia recently opened a direct route from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten to Silangit Airport, North Sumatra, which is closer to the scenic Lake Toba than Kualanamu.



The carrier operated its first flight to the area on March 22, with a Bombardier CRJ-1000 NextGen Explore Jet 96-passenger capacity aircraft. The flight will operate three times a week in its first phase.



State airport operator Angkasa Pura II (AP II) will also renovate Silangit Airport, expanding its runway to accommodate medium-bodied aircraft and commence regular flights by September.



Data from the Tourism Ministry revealed that 200,000 foreign and 11 million domestic tourists visited North Sumatra in 2014, contributing some US$1.6 billion to the nation's gross domestic product (GDP). The government aims for 1 million foreign and 15 million domestic tourists to visit the area by 2019, an increase from the current 250,000 foreign tourist arrivals, according to North Sumatra administration data.



North Sumatra acting governor Tengku Erry Nuradi said that he planned to develop seven regencies around Lake Toba, including Dairi regency for its religious tourism and Tanah Karo regency for its agricultural tourism.

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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

JAKARTA: The body of a Polish man was found hanging from a tree in an area near Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday morning.



Soekarno Hatta Police officer Brig. Joko said 31-year-old Michal Jaroslaw Gorlikowski was hanging by a climbing rope from the tree.



The body, Joko said, was identified using a passport placed in a bag near the body. Joko revealed that preliminary investigations indicated that the death may have been a suicide. However, he said the police were still investigating the death for other possible causes or motives.



'Currently, the body is being examined at the Tangerang General Hospital,' Joko said as quoted by kompas.com.
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Linkedin Erika Kinetz, Tia Goldenberg, Daniel Estrin & Raphael Satter (The Jakarta Post) Ashdod, Israel  Mon, March 28, 2016

Gilbert Chikli was rolling in money, stolen from some of the world's biggest corporations. His targets: Accenture. Disney. American Express. In less than two years, he made off with at least 6.1 million euros from France alone.



But he had a problem. He couldn't spend the money. A tangle of banking rules designed to stop con men like him stood between Chikli and his cash. He needed to find a weak link in the global financial system, a place to make his stolen money appear legitimate.



He found it in China.



"China has become a universal, international gateway for all manner of scams," he said in an interview with The Associated Press. "Because China today is a world power, because it doesn't care about neighboring countries, and because, overall, China is flipping off other countries in a big way."



A visionary con man, Chikli realized early on ' around 2000, the year before China joined the World Trade Organization ' the potential that lay in the shadows of China's rise, its entrenched corruption and informal banking channels that date back over 1,000 years. The French-Israeli man told the AP he laundered 90 percent of his money through China and Hong Kong, slipping it into the region's great tides of legitimate trade and finance.



Today, he is in good company.



Criminals around the world have discovered that a good way to liberate their dirty money is to send it to China, which is emerging as an international hub for money laundering, an AP investigation has found. Gangs from Israel and Spain , North African cannabis dealers and cartels from Mexico and Colombia are among those using China as a haven where they can safely hide money, clean it, and pump it back into the global financial system, according to police officials, European and U.S. court records and intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.



China's central bank and police refused repeated requests for comment.



In a regular briefing with reporters Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said the government "places great emphasis" on fighting crimes such as money laundering and is working to expand international cooperation. "China is not, has not been, nor will be in the future a center of global money laundering," he said.



Chikli is widely credited in France with inventing a con that has inspired a generation of copycats. Chikli's scam, called the fake president or fake CEO scam, has cost companies around the world $1.8 billion in just over two years, according to the FBI. And the damages are rising fast.



Security cameras poke over the high wooden fence that encircles Chikli's property, a sleek, three-story home in Ashdod, a port city on the Mediterranean. Beyond that, a swing set, pink-and-purple tricycle and orange ball jumble his lawn. And then there is Chikli himself, tan and smiling at his massive front door. He was sentenced in absentia to seven years in prison by a French court last year and remains a wanted man, but here in Israel, he lives openly and talked about his criminal exploits with pride during four hours of interviews with the AP.



"It's the power of persuasion," he said. "It's not easy to turn the head of a bank president."



Dirty money has long washed through China, but has been viewed primarily as a domestic problem. Now, mounting evidence shows that non-Chinese criminals are learning to tap entrenched, sophisticated Chinese systems to move money illegally' largely beyond the reach of Western law enforcement.



China's underground financial systems are of rising concern to top policymakers there, who are struggling to stem massive capital flight as the economy slows. Despite strict currency controls, a record net $711 billion gushed out of China last year, not counting foreign direct investment, according to estimates by Fitch Ratings.



A lot of that money leaks out illegally. Corporations undervalue exports or overvalue imports to move capital abroad, for example. Money changers and underground banks routinely help mainland Chinese slip cash out of the country in excess of the official $50,000-a-year limit. Global Financial Integrity, a Washington-D.C. non-profit, ranks China as the world's largest exporter of illicit money.



"Wherever I go in the world, there is a growing Chinese presence," said John Cassara, a former financial intelligence agent at the U.S. Treasury Department. "It's only natural that the Chinese are going to bring their financial systems with them ' their above-board financial systems and their underground systems."



"It's completely off the radar screen," Cassara said. "No one knows about it."



But Chikli knew.



"Gilbert Chikli knows that China is a springboard to be able to bounce money off of," said the con man, who often spoke of himself in the third person. "It's not a secret. The whole world knows that China is a hub for sending and receiving money."



The 'fake CEO scam'



The first con, the one that made Chikli realize he had "the gift," began in Paris on the afternoon of July 25, 2005, with a phone call.



When Madame G., who ran a branch of La Banque Postale, picked up the phone, a man with a sure, powerful voice said he was the bank's CEO and needed her help on a top-secret terrorism investigation, French court documents show. He dropped details about past meetings that left Madame G., whose name cannot be published due to French privacy laws, convinced of his identity. The man told her a secret agent named Paul would be in touch.



Following instructions, Madame G. bought a burner phone to communicate with Paul. Over the next three days, he hammered her with 43 calls.



Some of the bank's clients, Paul explained, were suspected of running money for terrorists. Less than three weeks earlier, four suicide bombers linked to Al Qaida blew themselves up in central London, killing 52 people and injuring 700 more. Photographs of bloody, burned commuters staggering from the London Underground were everywhere.



Paul told Madame G. he needed the names of the bank's biggest clients. He wanted her to bring him cash. He would scan the bills to see if they were stolen, then they'd meet at a bistro on Rue de la Paix and he'd return the money. She was a key player in a major anti-terrorism operation.



He was counting on her.



On July 28, Madame G. stuffed 358,000 euros ($398,000) in a bag and took a taxi to a cafe in eastern Paris. She walked into a stall in the restroom. She heard a woman say the secret password. Madame G. passed the cash-filled bag under the stall. Mission accomplished.



Then she went to the bistro on Rue de la Paix and waited on the terrace. But where was Paul?



After she went to the police, investigators eventually traced the calls to Chikli. Paul was, in Chikli's telling, just one of his many stage names. The woman who took the cash in the bathroom was Chikli's mistress. Chikli's brother, Simon, drove the getaway car, according to French court documents.



Back then, it was a game to Chikli. But if he wanted to get more money than would fit in a sack, he had to take his criminal ambitions global.



Banks are supposed to know their customers ' not just their identities, but also where their money comes from. To scale up his fraud, Chikli needed a way around international anti-money laundering norms.



He had a number of options for cleaning his cash. Chikli called HSBC and tricked an employee into sending money to one of his Hong Kong front companies, which bounced it to a guy in Fujian province, who told investigators that he often used his bank account to launder money for Israelis, in exchange for a 5 percent commission. Police traced tens of thousands in transfers from Chikli front companies to Bank of China accounts.



The Bank of China refused to comment.



But Chikli's preferred method, which he described for the first time in detail to the AP, was to use import-export schemes.



Such trade-based money laundering is a growing concern for U.S. authorities. Mexican and Colombian drug cartels laundered more than $5 billion in drug proceeds in part by exporting counterfeit goods from China, according to a US Justice Department indictment against three Colombians based in Guangzhou.



Chikli ordered companies to send money to bank accounts around the world ' often, he said, in Eastern Europe. Then, he'd bounce the funds to Hong Kong and China and arrange for them to be withdrawn in cash. The money was used to purchase merchandise ' shoes, gold, steel, textiles ' in China. For a commission, the Chinese vendor then issued highly inflated receipts to Chikli's shell companies, creating a "legal" paper trail. Typically, Chikli said, he'd actually buy some goods, while forwarding most of his cash to another account he controlled. He might purchase, say, 20 tons of steel, but bribe the vendor to give him a receipt for 100 tons.



Chikli sold the goods and then sent the money to Israel, where false invoices made the entire sum look like legitimate trading profits, he said.



"Everything is clean," he said. "Give me the documents and everything is fine."



The washing machine



Chikli used to run a clothing company in Sentier, a late 18th-century Paris neighborhood built atop a medieval slum. Sentier was once a neighborhood for strivers ' first Jews from Eastern Europe and North Africa, then Chinese who moved into the wholesale textile trade. Chikli forged the idea for his scam on these streets.



The tools of his trade are simple: telephones. Chikli called the company that runs Disneyland Paris, pretending to be the CEO. He called French technology conglomerate Thomson SA and persuaded an employee to transfer millions to accounts in Russia, Switzerland and England. He called Barclays, Galeries Lafayette, American Express.



Eventually, French authorities caught up with him and put him on trial for dozens of attempted frauds, many thwarted only at the last moment. In 2009, Chikli posted 30,000 euros ($33,500) bail. His passport was confiscated and he was ordered to remain in France to stand trial. Instead, he chartered a private plane, he claims, and fled to Israel.



A French court found him guilty last May of defrauding La Banque Postale, LCL bank and HSBC, along with Thomson and Accenture, out of 6.1 million euros, and attempting to extract over 70 million euros from at least 33 others. But by then, he was living by the sea in Ashdod.



It was, perhaps, his most masterful con of all.



Israeli authorities would not say whether France had made a formal request for Chikli's extradition. French judicial officials have not responded to repeated requests for clarification on the status of any extradition request related to Chikli. Israel and France share no bilateral extradition treaty, but Israel has surrendered French citizens in some cases.



Israeli authorities also declined to explain why Chikli is able to live freely in Israel. A spokesman for the state attorney's office, Noam Sharvit, would only say that Israeli law enforcement is "doing all they can to fight and contain these criminal phenomena."



Law enforcement has not globalized as fast as crime, and the legal firewall that surrounds China has added to its appeal as a money-laundering hub.



Chinese authorities generally have done little to help Western companies defrauded in Chikli-style scams recover their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.



The US State Department, in a report this month, reproached China for lackluster performance on money-laundering investigations.



"China has not cooperated sufficiently on financial investigations and does not provide adequate responses to requests for financial investigation information," the State Department wrote.



Jay Bienkowski, an FBI supervisory special agent in Washington who has retired since speaking to the AP, said extradition is crucial for apprehending criminals across borders. But China and the U.S. do not have an extradition treaty.



Europol, the European Union law enforcement agency, has no cooperation agreement with China.



"For us it's a blind spot," said Igor Angelini, Europol's head of financial intelligence.



'Maybe it was God'



Chikli insists he no longer runs fake CEO scams. But a new generation of fraudsters is copying his technique. Using information gleaned from social media and hacking, they impersonate top executives and convince employees to route money to accounts they control, ostensibly to do business deals or pay suppliers.



The FBI said it received 13,500 complaints from fake CEO scam victims around the world ' a rise of 270 percent last year.



"It's a significant scam. Big dollars, and relatively recent," said Bienkowski. "It's scary."



The frauds hinge on delicate detail: A faked email ending in .co instead of .com. A name off by a single letter. The pressure is always relentless. A critical deal must be executed immediately, in total secrecy. A new supplier urgently needs payment.



The FBI traced fake CEO scam transfers to over 70 different countries. "At the very top of that list is Hong Kong and China," Bienkowski said.



Some of the networks now running fake CEO scams are collaborating with Chinese migrants in Europe to launder their money, according to European intelligence documents reviewed by the AP.



"Non-Chinese criminal groups committing CEO frauds are sending money to China because Chinese criminal groups in Europe are giving them cash," Angelini told the AP. "The scale of this phenomenon is quite substantial."



Police believe Chinese migrants and Israeli con men first learned to work together in Chikli's old neighborhood, Sentier, forging a system for laundering money so elegant that today some migrants consider it "the fastest and most secure and most reliable method for Chinese merchants to transfer their funds to China," according to European intelligence documents.



The methods they've devised are a variation of the ancient Chinese system of fei qian (FAY ch'ien), or "flying money."



Chinese immigrants first give their cash to a trusted member of the local Chinese community in France, Italy, Spain, Belgium or Germany and indicate where their money should be remitted. That Chinese intermediary ' the bagman ' provides the Israeli contacts with the relevant bank account information. The Israelis then direct their stolen money to those accounts in China. Once the Chinese confirm the money has landed in the correct account, the bagman hands over their cash, in euros, to the Israelis.



The Israelis get euros in Europe, the Chinese get yuan in China. "It works like an offsetting operation between (the) Chinese community and crooks in Israel," according to the intelligence documents, which note that the Israelis usually charge a 2.5 percent fee.



France's financial crimes squad in June busted a similar money transfer network in a Chinese wholesale district in Aubervilliers, in the suburbs of Paris, where Chinese merchants are accused of laundering money for North African drug dealers.



While Chikli's copycats may have tapped into flying money networks, Chikli said he never used them himself. He claimed that many of the people running scams today are French Jews who have fled anti-Semitism in France and use the con to rebuild their lives in Israel.



"If it can help these families who have lost everything in France," he said, "then all the better. "Maybe it was God that gave me this idea."



'Thank you for calling'



At 50, Chikli's even, chiseled face is beginning to show signs of age. He insists his intention was never to harm people, but to take revenge on a financial system that lets the rich steal with impunity. He saw who wielded real power in the world: Corporations and the people that run them. And if the son of a poor Tunisian car mechanic could not be a CEO, he could at least pretend to be one.



"I understood that the bankers were never convicted," he said. "If the bankers were never convicted, then I needed to indirectly become an official banker."



As a scrappy 8-year-old, Chikli stole notebooks from school and resold them to his classmates. He later got into credit card fraud. "We would go shopping," he said. "It was pretty nice because we felt like we were the owners of something, which we were not."



He studied acting. Worked in advertising and real estate. But his true vocation was persuasion.



"The brain is the world's most dangerous weapon," Chikli said. "I learned not to control but to try to make someone believe that I was right. And from that moment, all the doors opened."



Chikli calls this "the gift." With it, extracting millions from some of the world's best educated and most privileged can be a matter of a single phone call. "It can last two hours. It can last four hours. It can last five minutes," he said. "It's cinema."



Chikli maintains that his real accomplices were the employees who took his calls and complied with his demands. He threatened them. He bullied them. He seduced them.



He said he made amends to about 30 people who executed his orders ' some of whom lost their jobs ' by sending credit cards linked to offshore bank accounts with about 50,000 euros ($55,800) each.



"Everyone took ' everyone. There was not one who refused," he claimed. He said he gave one bank manager 18 roses. "She was pulverized," he said. "If I remember correctly, we sent her 180,000 euros. That's how we wanted to apologize."



Chikli would provide no evidence to support his claims.



Today, Chikli has himself amassed many trappings of a banker's life: White baby grand piano. Glass elevator. Fendi bedboard. A glam wife 19 years his junior tattooed with "Gilbert" in curling letters next to a heart on her slim wrist.



"I have six children," he said. "I take my kids to school. I am home at 8 p.m. every night. Sincerely, I am the most simple man in the world."



This fugitive from French justice is the hero of a new film starring Julie Gayet, the companion of French President Francois Hollande. Producer Isaac Sharry met Chikli while he was awaiting trial in a French jail and paid him for the rights to his story.



The heist-thriller based on Chikli's life, "Je Compte sur Vous ," is also being marketed in English.



The title: "Thank You for Calling."



Associated Press writers Eric Tucker, Josef Federman, Gerry Shih, Angela Charlton, Nicolas Vaux-Montagny, Philippe Sotto and AP researcher Fu Ting contributed to this story.
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Linkedin Ni Komang Erviani (The Jakarta Post) Denpasar  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Denpasar District Court declared an Indian national guilty on Monday for attempting to smuggle drugs into Indonesia's most-famous tourist destination, the island of Bali, and sentenced him to 14 years imprisonment.

The court ruled that 29-year-old Sayed Muhammad Said was guilty of attempting to smuggle 1.1 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, locally known as sabu-sabu, presiding Judge Dewa Gede Suarditha told the court.

"The defendant has violated the Narcotics Law on importing drugs," Suarditha said.

The verdict is lighter than the 20-year sentence sought by prosecutors.

The court also imposed an Rp 1 billion (US$74,963) fine on Said, or an additional three months imprisonment should he fail to pay the fine.

Said's attorney M. Rifan said his client had not yet decided whether he would appeal the verdict.

Ngurah Rai International Airport Customs officers arrested Said, who worked as a sailor, upon his arrival at the airport on an Air Asia flight that departed from Bangkok, Thailand on Sept. 5 last year. Officers became suspicious after observing Said's body language as he collected his luggage in the arrival terminal.

As his luggage went through the airport's X-ray machine, customs officers noticed a suspicious package inside, and later found a plastic bag of crystal methamphetamine covered in black tape. (rin)(+)
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Linkedin Marguerite Afra Sapiie (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo has strongly condemned an Easter Sunday bombing that killed 65 people in Pakistans eastern city of Lahore.



The statement was posted on the President's official Twitter account, @Jokowi, at 6:05 a.m. on Monday.



"Indonesia strongly condemns the bombing in Lahore. Terror is not allowed by any name. Deep condolences to the victims, Pakistani people," Jokowi wrote.



Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry said based on information from the Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad, no Indonesian citizens had been named among the victims.



As quoted by the Cabinet secretariat's website, www.setkab.go.id, the Foreign Ministry also condemned the bombing in Lahore, which the Pakistani faction of the militant Taliban group has claimed responsibility for.



Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said through the ministry's official Twitter account, @Portal_Kemlu_RI, that on behalf of the Indonesian government and its citizens, she sent sympathy and deep condolences to the victims and their families.



On Sunday, a deadly blast occurred near children's play equipment in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park where a suspected suicide bomber from the Taliban killed 65 people and wounded over 300.



The Associated Press reported that the bombing deliberately targeted crowds of Christians at the park, including many children, during the holy day of Easter.



Prime ministers from around the world such as Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, UK Prime Minister David Cameron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have spoken up on behalf of their countries, condemning the act of terrorism as well as expressing condolences and prayers through their Twitter accounts.



UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also condemned the bombing through an official UN statement. He called for the perpetrators of the terrorist act to be brought to justice, consistent with human rights obligations. (bbn)
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Linkedin Bambang Muryanto (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Religious intolerance is still rife in Yogyakarta, with three cases reported in the first three months of this year in a city once regarded as a paragon of tolerance.



'On average, a case occurs each month. This is a high figure. Human rights cases cannot be ignored,' Yogyakarta National Alliance of Unity in Diversity (ANBTI) coordinator Agnes Dwi Rusjiati told The Jakarta Post recently.



The three cases of intolerance were the refusal by the Sleman regency administration to issue a building permit (IMB) for the Pos Palagan Indonesian Christian Church (GKI) in Sleman, the prevention by mass organizations of a lecture about Shia Islam held at the Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University (UIN) and the closure of the Al Fatah transgender pesantren (Islamic school) in Kotagede, which was initiated by mass organizations and had been approved by the government.



Last year, ANBTI Yogyakarta also noted that at least 12 cases of religious intolerance had occurred in the city, one of the Indonesia's cultural melting pots. One such case involved the attempted burning down of the allegedly unlicensed Indonesian Baptist Church (GBI) building in Sewon, Bantul regency.



Yogyakarta used to be known as a pluralistic city and has been categorized as a miniature Indonesia. Lately, however, it has become a city rife with instances of intolerance. In 2014, the Wahid Institute described Yogyakarta as the second-most intolerant city in Indonesia, while in 2015 the Setara Institute ranked Yogyakarta fifth with 10 reported cases of intolerance.



The Yogyakarta Legal Aid Institute (LBH) issued a Freedom of Religion and Belief statement listing 13 complaints of intolerance it received between 2011 and 2015. The cases ranged from preventing the establishment of houses of worship to attacks on minorities, hate speech expressed in public places and the prevention of celebrations of religious holidays.



'Civil society groups must accompany the victims intensively from the start to minimize the number of intolerance cases,' said Agnes.



She added that if the civil society groups stuck to the old way of just overseeing a case when it took place, it would not lead to positive results. 'We believe intolerant groups always approach government officials and the police. We must also do the same thing by approaching policy makers,' she added.



Meanwhile, National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) member Siti Noor Laila expressed concern over the ongoing acts of intolerance in Yogyakarta.



'Intolerance in Yogyakarta is not only in religious life but has entered institutions of higher learning. This is very alarming because there should be freedom of thought and expression in an academic environment,' she said.



Siti criticized state institutions, such as the Yogyakarta municipality and police, which were weak in the face of intolerant groups who did not reflect teachings from the Pancasila state ideology.



'The state authorities and police should defend Pancasila, not side with the intolerant groups,' she said.



Separately, a transgender student of Al Fatah, Yuni Sara, expressed the hope that intolerance could be eradicated in Yogyakarta. Yuni said she was saddened when her pesantren was closed by the village administration last month following protests from the Islamic Jihad Front (FJI).



'Why do members of the community in Yogyakarta, who are mostly Muslim, repress us? Whereas in, fact, we just wish to learn the Koran and perform joint prayers at the pesantren,' said Yuni.

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Linkedin Safrin La Batu and Farida Susanty (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Bandung  Mon, March 28, 2016

There is no guarantee that drivers working for ride-hailing app companies such as Grab and Uber will be free from official crackdowns across the capital, even after the government confirmed that the firms had been granted a two-month grace period during which both are expected to work out all legalities.



Jakarta Transportation Agency head Andri Yansyah said Saturday that the authorities would continue to crack down on the vehicles of companies that continue to operate illegally, adding that Grab and Uber were not considered an exception.



'My focus is not merely Grab and Uber. We will take firm action against vehicles from any company that operates illegally. Any company means that Grab and Uber are included,' Andri said.



'[What I mean by] firm action is that we will confiscate the vehicles,' he added.



Grab and Uber are companies that cooperate with private car owners in order to operate app-based transportation. Car owners include both car rental companies and individual owners.



Andri did not say anything about ojek (motorcycle taxis) that also operate as public transportation without any legal documentation.



Transportation Minister Ignasius Jonan said on Friday that Uber and Grab would be permitted to continue their operations for a further two months while the companies endeavor to fulfill all legalities, such as creating a legal entity for all rented cars employed by the operation as regulated by the Land Transportation Law.



The law stipulates that public transportation vehicles must be provided by either state-owned enterprises, province-owned companies or private companies.



If Grab and Uber fail to attain legal status within two months, Jonan said the government will ban cars rented by the companies from taking passengers.



The government has given Grab and Uber two options; to register a legal entity for their cars or join with an existing transportation company.



In an effort to comply with the Land Transportation Law, both Grab and Uber previously established cooperatives for their car owners.



Transportation Ministry staff expert Hadi M. Djurait confirmed that the Transportation Ministry wanted cars from the two companies to be allowed to operate, as seen by the two-month grace period.



He acknowledged that enforcing the Land Transportation Law is the prerogative of the agency, not the ministry.



'So, Andri's statement should be seen as an effort to force Grab and Uber to immediately arrange permits for the cooperatives they had established for their rented cars,' he told The Jakarta Post.



The proliferation of ride-sharing companies has caused outrage among conventional taxi companies. Taxi drivers working for conventional taxi companies protest that the app-based companies operate illegally and claim that their income decreased significantly since app-based transportation began to operate in the capital. Conventional taxi drivers carried out massive demonstrations across several areas of Jakarta on Tuesday to demand the government ban the operation of app-based transportation.



Several of the rallies turned violent after participants accosted taxis that had continued to operate, smashing windows and hauling the drivers out of their vehicles. The Jakarta Police reported that 150 Blue Bird taxis had been damaged during the city-wide protest.



While the demonstration had been organized in order to demand the ban on taxi-hailing app companies, violent participants also targeted fellow conventional taxis and ojek drivers working for app-based companies such as Go-Jek. Several participants were caught beating such drivers.



The police have thus far named five suspects for allegedly having incited the violence, disrupting public order and damaging property.

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Linkedin Nurul Fitri Ramadhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Judicial Commission has promised to carry out a transparent selection of Supreme Court justices amid concerns that several candidates with poor track records have made it on to the list.



The commission has asked for the public to monitor and immediately submit complaints about the candidates through its official website and call center.



'We don't know too much about the candidates, so please help us in the selection process by immediately submitting complaints if any. I can guarantee that the our recruitment committee's investigation team will process all complaints and reports. The public need not worry,' commissioner Maradaman Harahap said on Sunday.



The Judicial Commission is currently in the process of selecting eight Supreme Court justices to be assigned to four chambers. Four will be appointed to the civil chamber, while one each will go to the criminal, religious and military chambers.



The commission is also, for the first time, selecting ad hoc judges for corruption courts.



The Judicial Commission has picked 86 Supreme Court justice candidates who have passed administrative selection. Around 42 out of 53 applicants for ad hoc corruption court judge positions have also passed the administrative requirements.



All of the candidates will follow a series of tests on March 28 to 29 at the Supreme Court's research, development, and training center in Mega Mendung, West Java.



During the selection processes, the Judicial Commission has been involved with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in dealing with the candidates' wealth reports (LHKPN), and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to examine their financial transaction records.



Maradaman said he had yet to detect any problematic names so far, because the candidates' dossiers were still being checked out by the KPK and PPATK.



Legal activists from the Judicial Watch Coalition said that of the current 86 Supreme Court justice candidates a number should be dropped because of their poor records.



According to the coalition's preliminary checks, several candidates are not competent to sit in specific chambers.



'For example, they are competent in and usually handle criminal cases, but have applied for the civil court. They shouldn't do it, because if they are selected, it will impact on their performance in handling cases. The worst thing is they could make the court less productive,' said Miko Susanto Ginting from the Center of Legal and Policies Studies (PSHK), a member of the coalition.



He also criticized the commission for being too procedural, as it simply fulfilled requests for justices from the Supreme Court.



'In deciding how many judges to hire, the court and the commission should compare the number of cases in every court. Just because there are eight judges who will retire, it doesn't mean the court really needs eight. It could be fewer or more,' Miko said.



In response, Maradaman of the commission admitted that there were many applicants applying for positions they were not suitable for.



'It's their risk. Just let them follow the selection. We are still in the administrative process and they will face many more tests, including a quality test, which will examine their competence,' he said, adding that there were also several candidates who applied for justice positions in both the Supreme Court and corruption courts.



He said that the commission followed the request by the Supreme Court because that institution knew how many judges were needed.



Judicial Commission commissioner Farid Wajdi said that if the number of candidates who could pass the entire selection procedure was fewer than eight, the commission would not force the matter.



'We are committed to passing only qualified candidates of integrity,' Farid said.

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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras) said on Saturday that the National Police's counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, had committed a number of human rights violations in relation to the death of Siyono, a terrorist suspect.



On March 8, Siyono was apprehended by three men, suspected to be Densus 88 members, after he had performed Maghrib prayers in a mosque close to his home in Klaten, Central Java. After a four-day interval, his body, showing signs of physical abuse, was sent home from Bhayangkara Police Hospital in Jakarta.



'After Siyono's death, Kontras conducted a string of investigations, by interviewing his family, and examining the Densus 88 operation against a number of regulations, including KUHAP [the Criminal Law Procedures Code], Indonesian human rights law and a National Police regulation on Densus 88,' said Kontras civil and political rights division member, Satrio Wirataru.



The investigation, Satrio said, found that the counterterrorism unit had neither processed an arrest warrant prior to Siyono's arrest nor a police dossier afterward.



Satrio said that Densus 88 was obliged to produce those documents, as stipulated by Article 18 of KUHAP and Article 9 of the 2011 National Police Chief Regulation on counterterrorism law procedures.



'It is very inappropriate that the Densus 88, as a special unit under the National Police, breached its own regulations by failing to create the dossier,' Satrio said.



The Kontras investigation also revealed that it was not the first time the counterterrorism unit had failed to process dossiers when conducting an operation. 'This has happened before, when Densus 88 interrogated two men for alleged involvement in terrorism in Solo in December last year,' Satrio, who conducted the investigation, said.



Kontras also found that Siyono's father, Marso, was asked by the police to sign a letter that prohibited Siyono's family from challenging anything related to his death in court. This violated Article 17 of the 1999 Law on human rights, which stipulates that everybody has the right to seek justice in criminal, civil or maladministration cases in court, Satrio said



Kontras also accused the police of torturing the suspect during the interrogation. 'This was revealed when Kontras interviewed Siyono's family about the state of his body after it was returned by the National Police,' Satrio said.



The family said Siyono's body had bruising to the face and legs, the nose was broken and the head was covered in blood.



Earlier, National Police spokesman Insp. Gen. Anton Charliyan said that an autopsy on Siyono's body, conducted by the Bhayangkara hospital, showed that Siyono died from a brain hemorrhage as a result of being hit by a blunt instrument, after he became embroiled in a fight with a Densus 88 officer.



Anton said that Siyono was in a car with a driver and only one Densus 88 officer guarding him.



'It is hard to believe that Siyono died from a blow by a blunt object, given the fact that Siyono's body was covered in wounds when it was received by his family,' Satrio said.



Siyono was arrested by Densus 88 on suspicion of being the leader of Neo Jamaah Islamiyah (Neo JI).



Police said he knew the location of Neo JI arms caches, which mainly contain weapons inherited from groups involved in the Bali bombing. (mos)

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Linkedin Haeril Halim (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

A Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigation document into a bribery case embroiling House of Representatives Commission V, which oversees infrastructure, reveals details of how political parties allegedly rigged infrastructure projects at the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry.



The case started when the KPK arrested ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P) politician Damayanti Wisnu Putranti, a Commission V member, for accepting a commitment fee from businessman Abdul Khoir on Jan. 13, after attending the birthday party of Guruh Soekarnoputra, the brother of PDI-P chairwoman and former president Megawati Soekarnoputri, in Jakarta.



The fee was in relation to an infrastructure project from the ministry worth Rp 41 billion (US$3.09 million) in Maluku.



In the 84-page document, obtained by The Jakarta Post on Sunday, Abdul told KPK investigators that Commission V member Musa Zainuddin of the pro-government National Awakening Party (PKB) had offered him construction projects in Maluku 'earmarked' for the Islamic political party by Commission V worth a total of Rp 500 billion, but the businessman had to pay an 8 percent commitment fee to Musa in order for his company to win the project tenders.



'Musa controls Rp 250 billion of the total project, of which I would receive Rp 100 billion while another Rp 150 billion would be given to [other businessmen] Rino/Henok Setiawan and Carlos,' Abdul said in the document.



Abdul added that he made the payment to Musa in several stages between November and December 2015 through a Commission V staff member identified as 'Bang Jay', who informed Abdul that Rino had also paid his 'obligatory' 8 percent commitment fee to Musa with regard to the Rp 150-billion projects.



Abdul said that he did not know with whom Musa shared the Rp 8 billion money but he told investigators that the Rp 100-billion project he acquired was jointly earmarked for Musa and other PKB politicians in Commission V including Alamudin Dimyati Rois and Fathan Subchi.



National Mandate Party (PAN) members offered a cheaper commitment fee of only 7 percent for infrastructure projects worth Rp 170 billion in Maluku, where Abdul's company is based.



The projects were earmarked for PAN member Andi Topan Tiro, who received Rp 6.7 billion from Abdul; of which Rp 4.2 billion was given to Topan through Bang Jay, while the remaining money was given directly to Topan in his office at the House.



Abdul said Public Works and Public Housing Ministry officials identified as Quraish Lutfhi and Imran helped Topan to persuade the ministry to award Topan's project to Abdul. 'After handing over the money to Topan, he thanked me,' Abdul said in the document.



The KPK investigation has so far named as suspects two Commission V members namely Damayanti and Budi Supriyanto of the Golkar Party. Budi is accused of receiving an 8 percent commitment fee, amounting to S$404,000, for his Rp 50 billion project in Maluku being awarded to Abdul. Budi gave S$99,000 to Damayanti for brokering the deal with Abdul.



The KPK has questioned Musa, Fathan, Dimyati and Topan in the case and their status remains as witnesses.



Meanwhile, Abdul's lawyer Haeruddin Masaro confirmed the authenticity of the KPK document, adding that Abdul also told KPK investigator during his questioning that other businessmen eyeing projects in Maluku also bribed other Commission V members. He declined to give any names.



'Let the KPK work to unravel the names of the other lawmakers,' Haeruddin told the Post on Sunday.



In the document Abdul told KPK investigators his colleague 'Koh Aseng', who also sought projects in Maluku, paid unspecified commitment fees to Commission V member Yudi Widiana Adia of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS).

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Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Jakarta administration is one step closer to realizing its light rail transit (LRT) project following the recent approval of its rolling stock proposal by the Transportation Ministry.



The administration had proposed the use of rolling stock with a gauge of 1,435 millimeters while the gauge initially recommended by the Transportation Ministry had been 1,067 millimeters.



'We have accepted the administration's proposal and will support their construction plans,' said Transportation Minister Ignasius Jonan on Thursday after the LRT coordination meeting with representatives from the Jakarta administration and the Coordinating Economic Ministry.



Aside from the gauge standard, Jonan added that the administration had also proposed to build both railroad locomotive workshops and train depots using its regional budgets.



The Jakarta administration and the central government plan to build LRT in order to connect key places throughout the capital and draw the city closer to satellite cities such as Bekasi in West Java.



The city administration is looking to build 83 kilometers of LRT lines, segmented into nine corridors within the city. Meanwhile, the central government will construct a 12-kilometer LRT line from Jatiwaringin, East Jakarta, to Bekasi.



'Because our line is shorter than those set to be developed by the Jakarta administration, we will use the same gauge standard. It's good that the Jakarta administration is also willing to provide depots and workshops for our LRT project,' Jonan said.



Jakarta Governor Basuki 'Ahok' Tjahaja Purnama confirmed that the authorities had decided, in the meeting, that the intercity LRT line would be built using the gauge proposed by the Jakarta administration.



For the initial phase of the project the administration has prepared Rp 4 trillion (US$300 million), Ahok said. The budget, he added, had been handed to city-owned developer PT Jakarta Propertindo (Jakpro), the developer responsible for the project.



The city administration had yet to build the LRT as, according to Ahok, the administration, Transportation Ministry and the office of the Coordinating Economic Minister had first needed to review Presidential Regulations (Perpres) No. 79/2015 and No. 99/2015, both stipulating regulations on rail construction in the capital. The review had been required in order to provide Jakpro with certainty surrounding the selection of partners.



The city administration had wanted Jakpro to team up with prominent developers, such as state developers Adhi Karya, Waskita Karya and Wijaya Karya, to accelerate construction. However, the aforementioned Perpres had stipulated different regulations with regard to such cooperation.



Perpres No. 79/2015 stipulates that only state-owned companies can choose partners for projects, while the latter regulation allows city-owned companies, like Jakpro, to select partners.



'We hope that the revision will be finished this year so that we can start the project. Actually, we hope to hold the groundbreaking ceremony in April or May,' Ahok added.



Separately, Jakarta Development Planning Board (Bappeda) head Tuty Kusumawati said that, with the revision to the regulations, Jakpro could likely decide business schemes with other developers to kick off the project sooner.



She said that, aside from regulations, the administration had no other hindrance with regard to the LRT project.



'We are currently waiting for Jakpro to complete technical administration, like an environmental impact analysis [Amdal]. In the meantime, we have sent a letter to the Transportation Ministry for further coordination,' Tuty said
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Linkedin Grace D. Amianti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

State-owned lender Bank Mandiri will have a bigger capacity for expansion, owing to a higher capital adequacy ratio (CAR) expected this year as a result of asset revaluation.



The publicly listed bank, which is the country's largest lender in terms of assets, has completed an asset revaluation in which it will obtain about Rp 27 trillion (US$2.04 billion) in additional capital, its top executive says.



Bank Mandiri president director Kartika 'Tiko' Wirjoatmodjo said the lender currently had Rp 120 trillion in capital and that asset revaluation would increase its capital to at least Rp 147 trillion. Total capital will then be reduced for dividend payout, giving the bank Rp 138 to 140 trillion to boost its capital.



'It is quite strong for our capital and CAR to reach above 20 percent,' Tiko, who was previously Bank Mandiri's chief financial officer, said in Jakarta. As of the end of 2015, Mandiri had a CAR of 18.6 percent, an increase from the 16.6 percent posted a year earlier, well above regulators' healthy level of 8 percent, according to its financial report.



The government offers a low tax rate for companies that revalue their assets ' a tax incentive program offered by the government through its fifth economic stimulus package released last year. The move is expected to provide a bigger capacity for firms to expand, as companies will see the value of their assets increase, creating greater room or leverage to access external financing.



Many banks were eager to carry out fixed asset revaluation, as doing so would allow them to recalculate their CAR, thus giving them higher lending capacity.



Aside from helping the bank expand regionally, a higher CAR would help Mandiri prepare should the Financial Services Authority (OJK) designate it as one of the country's domestic systemically important banks (DSIBs), Tiko added.



The DSIBs, popularly known as too-big-too-fail banks, are required to have additional capital, namely a 'capital conservation buffer' to anticipate losses in a crisis period, as well as a special 'capital surcharge', above the regular CAR of 8 percent.



Tiko added that a higher CAR would also help the bank fulfill a requirement of the Basel III international regulation, the first phase of which had commenced for implementation in 2016 and should be fully adopted by 2019.



The minimum total capital set in the Basel III framework has been set at 8 percent, but starting in 2016, banks are required to meet an additional capital buffer of 0.62 percent, raising the minimum total capital to 8.62 percent. The benchmark is set to increase each year to reach 10.5 percent by 2019, when the Basel III requirements are set to be fully implemented.



Mandiri corporate secretary Rohan Hafas said previously that the bank had been waiting for the tax incentive on asset revaluation for a long time, adding that 'Mandiri's current fixed asset valuation hasn't been appraised since 1990'.



Former Mandiri president director Budi Gunadi Sadikin also said that the asset revaluation would help create more room for the bank to see higher loan growth at around 12 to 14 percent this year, compared to the 12.4 percent year-on-year (yoy) increase to Rp 595.4 trillion booked last year.

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Linkedin Haeril Halim (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Law and Human Rights Ministry called on the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) on Sunday to relocate drug inmates from prisons and detention centers in order to ease an overcapacity problem that may lead to a future jailbreak.



The spokesperson of the directorate general for penitentiaries of the Law and Human Rights Ministry, Akbar Hadi, said that existing drug inmates accounted for around 35 percent of the 183,000 total inmates in the country. He said they should be sent to rehabilitation centers to ease overcrowded prisons and detention facilities.



The ministry made the call after a drug-related raid conducted by the Bengkulu branch of the BNN at the Malabero state detention center led to a riot on Friday night. Five prisoners were killed in the riot. The raid was conducted to curb the distribution of drugs inside the prison.



'It is the authority of the BNN to do so. Almost every prison is overcrowded and most of the prisoners incarcerated in penitentiaries are drug convicts, who are mainly drug users, not drug traffickers,' Akbar said on Sunday.



Akbar said that if the BNN did not have enough facilities to house the drug convicts, the BNN could keep them in detention centers owned by local health and social affairs agencies in order to speed up rehabilitation programs outside prison.



Currently, Indonesia's 183,000 prisoners are kept in 477 penitentiaries. However, these penitentiaries were only designed to accommodate 118,000 inmates.



With the current number of existing prison officials across the country, each prison guard is expected to watch around 55 inmates. Often, prison officials become the target of attacks by prisoners.



The country's overcrowded penitentiaries are expected to take in more drug convicts following the government's war on drug use and trafficking.



The government's strict drug laws have put more than 130 people on death row for drug crimes.



Drug convicts tend to stay longer in prison compared to other offenders as the government has issued a regulation to make it more difficult for drug convicts to receive remissions while serving time in prison.



'There is a stipulation that requires drug convicts to become justice collaborators and catch big fish in drug related cases [in order to receive a remission]. This has prevented them from going back to society after receiving counseling services during their time in prison. The regulation needs to be reviewed,' Akbar said.



Akbar further said that law enforcement bodies, including the BNN, the National Police and the Attorney General's Office (AGO), should apply the principle of restorative justice in their prosecution of criminal cases, especially in regards to minor offenses, so that not all offenders with minor charges serve time behind bars.



'Punishment for minor offenses could be in the form of non-custodial sentences such as compulsory community service or a fine. Also, law enforcement should mediate between plaintiffs and suspects to see whether minor cases can be solved through mediation and discussion,' Akbar said, adding that the ministry should also step up efforts to build new cells in prisons.



House Commission III member Teuku Taufiqulhadi of the NasDem Party agreed on a plan to revise PP No. 99 in order to overcome prison overcapacity issues, but he emphasized that building new prisons or adding new cells to existing prisons would not solve recurring problems.



'Remissions are the right of convicts as citizens of this country, and thus there should not be barriers between convicts and their rights,' Teuku said.



Commission III chairman Bambang Soesatyo of the Golkar Party said that President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo should guarantee that Law and Human Rights Minister Yasona Laoly will allow the BNN to curb the distribution of drugs in prisons across the country. Friday's raid in Bengkulu confirmed that drug kingpins freely conduct their business inside prisons.



'The guarantee must include the green light to apprehend any penitentiary official [who helps drug kingpins sell drugs in prisons],' Bambang said.

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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Central Information Commission (KIP) has called on the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to apply transparency and provide access to its financial reports as the organization receives funds from the government and the public, the commission chairman said on Monday.



The MUI is considered a public body, according to the 2008 Public Information Transparency Law, KIP chairman Abdulhamid Dipopramono said.



Although it is not a government body, the MUI receives funds from the state budget and from several ministries for programs.



"The MUI also receives funds from the public for issuing halal certificates for varied products, not only food, beverages and cosmetics but also goods and services," Abdulhamid said on Monday as quoted by tribunnews.com.



Public bodies are not only executive, legislative and judicial bodies but also other agencies or non-governmental organizations whose funds come from the state budget, regional budgets and public or foreign donations.



"A public body must comply with the KIP Law, which includes an obligation to inform the public on its programs and financial reports as well as apply good governance management such as being transparent, effective, efficient and accountable," he said.



The commission noted that the MUI had never issued regular public reports on its programs and financial statements.



The public did not know about the MUI's financial condition, the funds it received or its expenses, Abdulhamid said.



Therefore, he found it was normal that questions arose recently on the MUI as it planned to expand its certification to more fields.



There was no transparent information on the MUI's official website, he added, though it would be important if the mass organization wanted to issue certificates on all sectors of people's lives like food, beverages, cosmetics, medicine, clothes and shoes, he said.



When issuing halal certificates, the MUI charges goods producers and restaurants. The more items requiring certification, the more money the MUI could rake in, Abdulhamid said, without giving further details on the cost of halal certification.



"The money it receives must be accounted for in public. Because the money spent by the certified party is borne by consumers in the end," he said.



The KIP urged the public to be critical and ask for the financial reports of NGOs such as the MUI and other organizations.



The commission would facilitate public reports if its inquires were not met with an adequate response.



The MUI is the sole organization that issues halal certificates for the Muslim-majority population of Indonesia. The MUI not only issues certificates for food, beverages and cosmetics sold at retail shops, but also for commercial restaurants and fast-food chains. The organization also issues fatwas declaring things considered haram in Islam. (rin)(+)
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Linkedin Kevin Freking (The Jakarta Post) Alexandria, Virginia  Mon, March 28, 2016

President Barack Obama and the first family attended an Easter service at a historic black church that traces its origins to when Thomas Jefferson was president.

The Rev. Howard-John Wesley, the pastor at Alfred Street Baptist Church, welcomed back the Obamas, whom he described as "the gorgeous family." The Obamas also visited the church last Easter.

The congregation, led by a choir clad in crimson, gold and white robes, joined in song early in the service, with the pastor asking them to share introductions, "but don't act crazy" as the hundreds in attendance exchanged hugs and handshakes.

Many in the choir and audience smiled as they swayed and clapped to the music and sang the refrain "yes, He lives," a reference to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the event Christians celebrate on Easter.

Wesley delivered a sermon that noted the suffering Jesus endured, and he encouraged the congregation to have faith that, if God could raise Jesus from the dead, he can help them get through their hardships.

"No matter what you're going through, you don't have to be afraid because God can handle it," Wesley said.

The Obamas spent about an hour at the service and returned to the White House, where on the South Lawn, workers and performers were preparing for the annual Easter Egg Roll to be held Monday.
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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jerusalem  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Palestinian government has asked the United Nations to launch an investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings by Israel.

Monday's request follows the deadly shooting last week by an Israeli soldier of a wounded Palestinian assailant as he lay on the ground. The military has detained the soldier while it investigates.

Palestinian official Saeb Erekat said that past Israeli investigations have failed to "serve justice" and instead, he claims Israel has been "rewarded with impunity."

The shooting came amid a six-month wave of Palestinian attacks that have killed 28 Israelis and two Americans.

Over the same time, at least 188 Palestinians have died by Israeli fire. Israel says most of those were attackers while the rest died in clashes with Israeli forces.

The Palestinians say the killings amount to extrajudicial slayings.
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Linkedin Raras Cahyafitri (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Jakarta-listed gas company PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) expects its floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) in Lampung to absorb up to eight cargoes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) by year-end amid rising demand.



The state company said that the LNG deliveries were expected to start in April.



'From April to the end of the year, the Lampung FSRU will gradually receive and distribute eight cargoes, equal to 1.1 million cubic meters of LNG,' PGN corporate secretary Heri Yusup said.



He added that the LNG deliveries would help the company, which operates the Lampung FSRU through subsidiary PT PGN LNG Indonesia, meet demand from its clients in the eastern part of Java and the southern part of Sumatra.



The eight cargoes come from the Tangguh LNG plant in Papua operated by BP.



The deliveries will also help Lampung FSRU accelerate recovery after suffering weak demand last year, partly due to slowing economic growth that resulted in its clients reducing energy consumption.



The FSRU was idle for months in the middle of last year, only to resume operations in October.



The situation forced the company to cancel its plan to ship several LNG cargoes from the Tangguh plant in West Papua. Under the government's allocation program, the facility should have received 14 cargoes from Tangguh in 2015.



The FSRU, which is located around 21 kilometers off Labuan Maringgai in Lampung, has a capacity to store up to 170,000 m3 of LNG and regasify 240 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd).



Gas that has been regasified at the FSRU is then delivered through an undersea pipe to a receiving terminal in Labuhan Maringgai, which is connected to the South Sumatra West Java (SSWJ) pipeline network that transports the commodity to its buyers.



To reduce dependency on petroleum-based fuel, the government aims to boost LNG utilization in the domestic market. Indonesia has long been a major exporter of LNG, particularly because domestic demand has not been able to absorb the production due to a lack of gas infrastructure.



Gas fields are mostly located in the eastern part of the country, where the demand is low. Meanwhile, the highest demand is usually seen in the western part of the country, meaning that sufficient facilities are necessary to ensure transport of the gas from the eastern part.



The Lampung FSRU is among new facilities built to increase domestic absorption. However, issues surrounding pricing and unfulfilled commitment on account of demand growth miscalculations continue to hamper domestic absorption.



State-owned power firm PLN is currently the most significant client in the country as it is in need of gas to fuel its power plants nationwide. However, pricing issues have frequently caused tensions with gas distributors, such as PGN.



PLN earlier said that it was in search for additional supply. The company's oil and gas division head, Chairani Rachmatullah, said PLN had secured 10-year contracts for the delivery of 34 LNG cargoes per year to feed its power plants.



'However, we will need more and therefore we are currently negotiating with Bontang or Tangguh for more. We expect to have a long-term contract for 45 LNG cargoes ready to be delivered every year,' Chairani said.



She added that PLN utilized 38 LNG cargoes last year and estimated that it would be able to absorb up to 40 cargoes this year.

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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

The Jakarta Prosecutor's Office is examining a revised document submitted by the Jakarta Police in connection with the murder of Wayan Mirna Salihin, after the police made efforts to improve the document, which was initially returned by the prosecutor's office.



The police said the updated document included information from the Australian Federal Police (AFP) about 14 items on the criminal record of Jessica Kumala Wongso, a suspect in the premeditated murder case.



'We have not finished checking the document. How can we move to P21?' said Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office spokesman Waluyo, as reported by tribunnews.com.



P21 is an indication that an investigation document from the police has been accepted by the prosecutors' office and the case is ready to go to court.



Investigators from the Jakarta Police's criminal division submitted the document to the prosecutor's office on March 21. Based on existing regulations, the prosecutors have 14 days to examine it.



The prosecutors are working to ascertain whether the police followed their recommendations after the office returned the document for improvement.



'If there are any shortcomings [in the document], we will return it to the police again, particularly if [the police] did not follow our guidance,' Waluyo added.



Mirna died after drinking an iced coffee at a cafA in Jakarta on Jan. 6 together with Jessica and another friend, Hani. Based on the crime scene investigation, Jessica arrived first at the cafA and ordered cocktails and an iced coffee. Mirna and Hani arrived later and Mirna drank the coffee. She then suffered convulsions and died on the way to hospital. (bbn)(+)
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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Religious issues have come to the fore in the political arena prior to the 2017 Jakarta gubernatorial election, with Governor Basuki 'Ahok' Tjahaja Purnama claiming that a rival has started to use religion to discredit him.



Ahok, who is a Christian, has accused former justice and human rights minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra of discrediting him when the latter spoke out about a plan to evict people living in Luar Batang, where there is a centuries-old mosque, in North Jakarta.



'This area is frequently used for a religious ritual that is respected by traditional Islamic society,' Yusril said on Monday while announcing that he would be the defense lawyer for 5,000 residents of Luar Batang who were fighting eviction by the Jakarta city administration, tribunnews.com reported on Monday.



Yusril did not explicitly mention the mosque, but Ahok, who has declared that he will run as an independent candidate in the election, concluded that the former minister was using the issue to discredit him.



Yusril, who is chairman of the Crescent and Star Party (PBB), an Islamic party, also intends to contest the 2017 Jakarta gubernatorial election and has started to seek the support of a number of political parties.



Luar Batang Mosque in Penjaringan subdistrict was built in 1739 by Al Habib Husein bin Abubakar bin Abdillah Al 'Aydrus, whose tomb is also located there.



Ahok has stated that he has no intention of demolishing the mosque, pointing out that it was a heritage building and protected under a city bylaw. He said he had renovated and beautified the mosque and its surroundings.



'As a lawyer, if Pak Yusril wants to challenge me he should use law. Don't discredit me, saying that I want to demolish the tomb of Habib,' he told journalist at City Hall on Monday, adding that Yusril's statement could spark outrage against the Jakarta administration.



Yusril said he had been appointed to represent 5,000 residents of Luar Batang against the city administration in its plan to evict them.



With its historical background, Ahok added, the Luar Batang mosque and tomb should be put on the map of religious tourism. 'What I want is to make the area a tourist destination. So it isn't the mosque that we want gone,' he added.



Previously, another gubernatorial hopeful, musician Ahmad Dhani, criticized the National Awakening Party (PKB), which it was reported would support Ahok in the gubernatorial election, saying that the PKB's move was not representative of its constituents, who were Muslims. (bbn)(+)
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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

An expert has argued that Indonesia is in a weak position in regards to its maritime disputes with China following an incident in the Natuna Sea because Indonesian patrol boats are not recognized by the International Maritime Organization.



In accordance with a 1982 United Nations convention, the international community only recognizes two types of boats operating in Exclusive Economic Zones, namely government boats and Navy ships.



The boats must also be registered with the International Maritime Organization, said Connie Rahakundi Bakrie, president of the Indonesia Institute for Maritime Studies.



The incident involved an Indonesian boat owned by the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry, an illegal Chinese fishing boat and a Chinese coast guard vessel.



"The [Indonesian] boat is not recognized by the International Maritime Organization. Even though it is a government boat, it has not been registered," Connie said on Monday as quoted by Kompas.com.



Indonesia does not effectively demarcate which institutions are responsible for protecting waters that border with other countries.



Connie has urged the government to finalize a decision on which institution will be responsible for the region. The candidates include the Marine Security Agency, the Indonesian Navy and the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Ministry.



Connie said the government should immediately register the boats owned by the ministry so that they will be recognized by the international community.



Connie also applauded the law enforcement measures taken by the ministry in the incident. However, he added that it was necessary to conduct administrative reform so that the measures were not taken in vain.



As previously reported, two Chinese vessels, the fishing vessel MV Kway Fey and a Chinese coast guard vessel, were involved in an incident with an Indonesian patrol boat at around 2:15 p.m., local time, on March 19.



The Indonesian patrol boat caught the MV Kway Fey fishing illegally in the waters off Natuna.



The KP Hiu 11 patrol boat, owned by the ministry, approached the fishing vessel and apprehended eight of its crew members. The patrol officers were about to escort the MV Kway Fey from the scene when a Chinese coast guard vessel approached and rammed the fishing vessel. It is suspected that this was done to prevent Indonesian authorities from confiscating the Chinese fishing vessel.



To avoid a conflict, Indonesian patrol boat officers left the MV Kway Fey and returned to the KP Hiu 11 command with the eight arrested crew members. (liz/bbn)(+)
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Linkedin Ayomi Amindoni (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Ayomi Amindoni

Remoras used to follow the sharks to eat the leftover foods, but when they get stronger and can eat the sharks food for themselves, the balance is challenged. The fittest shall prevail. Or not, in the case of ride-hailing apps versus conventional taxis in Indonesia.

Taking a position just like the remoras, app-based rides at first tried to take the "leftovers market that big taxi companies ignored: those who need a fast economical ride. This kind of market has been ignored by the "big sharks" in the industry for years. They have been too comfortable with their established pricing system and conventional business.

As the remoras get stronger and change position in the food chain, nature then decides which is the fittest to survive. Initially, the ride-hailing apps seemed to be the ones, but as the taxi drivers started to protested heavily, the fittest ones must adjust themselves to be as "conventional" as possible.

The government has given two-months' notice to Uber and Grab to fulfill the requirements for operating as public transportation.

Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) head Muhammad Syarkawi Rauf said that the call has yet to settle the core of the problem: the disputed low fares offered by the app-based taxis. According to the antimonopoly body, conventional taxis must, as well, adjust their pricing.

What should be done is all the regulations that create high costs in the spending structure of conventional taxis must be removed to create fair competition, Syarkawi told thejakartapost.com on Sunday.

The basic principle of the competition, he explained, is that no barriers, neither regulatory nor non-regulatory, are allowed. Syarkawi underlined that app-based taxis are a widely accepted new business model around the world. This inevitably means their presence must be accommodated.

"If there is no regulation that rules them, a new regulation or a regulation adjustment needs to be made, he said.

Syarkawi regarded the low fares as going beyond common sense and said that they have created a predatory pricing. During the protest last week, taxi drivers complained that their earnings nose-dived from Rp 150,000 (US$12) a day to a mere Rp 50,000 since the arrival of ride-hailing apps.

To solve this, he proposed the government remove taxi price minimums, allowing taxi companies to set lower prices more flexibly as long as they do not harm their cash flow. Currently, taxi companies charge a starting fee of Rp 7,500 followed by Rp 4,000 per kilometer.

With this rate, customers will prefer the app-based taxis, which apply a 30 percent cheaper flat rate per kilometer.

Sharing economy

Atmajaya University economist Agustinus Prasetyantoko said technological advance has allowed ride-hailing applications to push aside conventional taxi companies by exploiting the concept of a sharing economy. A sharing economy enables a company to manage the providers of goods and services, without owning the assets, and connect them with online customers instantly.

They are just connecting people with assets and people with demands, he said. It is a consequence of the advance of technology, so it is inevitable.

However, generally, the public is not ready to face the changes, especially the digital immigrants who are not familiar with ICT usage, he said. Besides, the government has not prepared regulations to control the practice of a sharing economy on a daily basis.

The 2009 Traffic Law stipulates that the organizing of traffic and land transportation should be conducted in a coordinated way involving the government, local administrations, companies and society stakeholders grouped in traffic and land transportation forums.

A cultural anthropologist at the University of Indonesia, Nosa Normanda, said the public had been facing technological socio-economic disruption, in which technology had perturbed the well-established structure in the country.

Dont forget that taxi operators like Blue Bird and Express in Indonesia have also shown monopolistic practices in the past. With larger capital, they have pushed aside the operation of local taxis, he said.

In the beginning both Uber and Grab, which claimed to be IT application providers and not public transportation companies, might have expected to have their competitive advantages bring their business model to the top.

Unfortunately, the government doesnt seem to want to allow that, especially as the big taxpayer sharks, failing to create more efficient technology-backed businesses and pricing, have asked the government to protect their squeezed businesses.

The consumers, who take the benefit of the competition, are closely watching how far the government will meddle in this issue. The government should take the side of progress and innovation, not kill ride-hailing apps by forcing them to be another conventional, obsolete business in the name of "creating a level playing field". (vps/ags)
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Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta  Mon, March 28, 2016

Publicly listed hospital operator PT Siloam International Hospitals, part of the Lippo Group diversified conglomerate, will set up 13 new hospital chains across the country within two years in response to increasing demand for healthcare services.



The plan will see Siloam's total number of full-service hospitals increase to 33 from 20 at present, said the company's president director Romeo F. Lledo. Romeo added that each hospital was estimated to consume an average investment of US$8 million.



This year, Siloam will set up a new hospital in Yogyakarta, and seven others will finish construction in Bangka-Belitung Islands, Lubuklinggau, South Sumatra, Bau-Bau, Southeast Sulawesi, Bogor, West Java, Jember, East Java, Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara and Sorong, West Papua.



In 2018, the company expects to finish construction of five more hospitals. The hospitals will be situated in Ambon, Maluku, Bandung, West Java, Panakkukang, South Sulawesi, Srondol Wetan, Central Java, and Cempaka Putih, Jakarta.



Romeo said Siloam was sure that secluded places like Labuan Bajo and Sorong would bring in good revenue, considering the fact that there was lack of healthcare investment in those areas, despite the fact that the areas, which are of interest to travelers, are being developed by the government.



'We don't concentrate on big cities alone, because we know the demand for good-quality healthcare is unconditional,' he said during the company's public expose last week.



In terms of business, Romeo said that demand would still exist regardless of the size of a city.



'If we could serve Indonesians irrespective of level, we are sure to gain a lot of benefit from that,' he said, highlighting that business volume was an important factor in increasing profits.



Siloam's massive expansion plan is part of the company's goal to have more than 50 healthcare centers across Indonesia. The initial plan was to achieve the figure by 2017.



The number of the company's hospitals was only four in 2010 ' in Lippo Village, Lippo Cikarang, Kebon Jeruk, and Surabaya. The company then added 16 new hospitals nationwide within four years.



Siloam went public in 2013, raising Rp 1.4 trillion in an initial public offering.



The expansion of Siloam's branch is expected to bring in more revenue to the company. The company targets to record a 5.2 percent increase in revenues this year, said Romeo.



'Our profits last year enabled us to open up seven new hospitals this year,' he added.



In 2015, Siloam booked revenues of Rp 4.144 trillion, up 24 percent from the Rp 3.144 trillion recorded in 2014.



Dr. Andry, Siloam's managing director and chief of enterprise and operations, said the company's smaller arms, Siloam clinic and Siloam Medika ' which target lower income levels ' would also positively impact the company.



'We have 17 Siloam clinics spread throughout places like CyberPark in Karawaci and Mertanadi in Bali. Furthermore, dozens of Siloam Medika are undergoing development now,' he added.



Andry said that both healthcare models ' clinic and Medika ' were established last year, and aimed to attract the middle and lower-classes by offering affordable healthcare treatment. The company cooperates with the Social Security Agency to offer basic services such as medical check-ups.



In the public expose, Siloam unveiled that its shareholders had agreed to appoint new names to its board of commissioners and directors, most notably Lippo Group deputy chairman James Riady's eldest daughter Caroline Riady.

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Linkedin Josef Federman (The Jakarta Post) Jerusalem  Mon, March 28, 2016

Amateur video appearing to show an Israeli soldier killing an already wounded Palestinian attacker sparked uproar in Israel on Sunday, reflecting the deep divisions in the country following six months of violence.

As the Israeli military pressed on with an investigation, nationalistic politicians accused the army of abandoning the soldier, while political doves bemoaned the erosion of the nation's morals. Palestinians, meanwhile, said the shooting proved their claims that Israel is guilty of using excessive force and carrying out extrajudicial killings.

The shooting took place last Thursday in Hebron, the volatile West Bank city that has been a focal point of the latest wave of Israeli-Palestinian violence. The military said two Palestinians stabbed and wounded an Israeli soldier before troops shot and killed the pair.

In a video released by the Israeli human rights group B'Tselem, one of the attackers appears to still be alive after the initial shooting. The video, taken by a Palestinian volunteer for the group, shows the wounded attacker lying on the ground, slowly moving his head. About a minute later, a soldier raises his rifle, cocks the weapon and fires. Blood is then seen streaming from the Palestinian's head.

The Israeli military quickly arrested the soldier and opened an investigation into what it said appeared to be a "grave breach" of its values. A military court has ordered the soldier to remain held until Tuesday while the investigation continues.

Military officials also have cast doubt on the soldier's claim that he believed the Palestinian was carrying explosives.

On Sunday night, B'Tselem released a second video it says shows the same soldier at the scene shaking hands with Baruch Marzel, a well-known ultranationalist, after the shooting.

Lt. Col. Peter Lerner, a military spokesman, said a preliminary investigation found the soldier arrived on the scene some six minutes after the initial incident, and that the second shooting occurred several minutes after that. "There was no apparent threat from the Palestinian that was incapacitated," Lerner said.

He said that commanders had already reported the shooting to their superiors before the video emerged. "There was already a military police investigation. We already knew the behavior was not in line with the code of conduct and ethics," he said.

The Israeli media, citing military officials, quoted the soldier as saying the Palestinian "deserved to die."

Lerner said three officers at the scene were reprimanded for not giving medical attention to the wounded Palestinian, as is required under military policy.

The sister of the soldier, who was not identified, accused the military of publicly convicting her brother, and several nationalistic lawmakers came to his defense, accusing detractors of abandoning him before he was given a fair hearing.

"Have we lost our minds? We're at war. War against vicious terrorism," said Naftali Bennett, leader of the hardline Jewish Home party. He said the shooting should be investigated, but criticized politicians and the media for rushing to condemn the soldier.

Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the right-wing opposition party Yisrael Beitenu, asked to meet the soldier in prison and accused the prime minister of looking for the support of the "bleeding hearts."

Over the weekend, hundreds of people protested in support of the soldier outside the prison, and posters surfaced denouncing his critics, including the military chief and defense minister.

In a Facebook post, Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon accused unnamed politicians of "a campaign of incitement" against the military leadership. "The sane elements in Israel, on the right and the left, must unite against this evil wind and stop it," he said.

Sima Kadmon, a commentator for the Yediot Ahronot daily, criticized the social media posts defending the soldier, and also lashed out at the apparent apathy shown by soldiers in the video after the Palestinian was shot.

But she said "the most troubling thing is the politicians who rushed to the defense of the shooter, even though top military officials, who are far more familiar with the circumstances of the incident and the findings of the inquiry, have called this for what it is: murder."

Addressing his Cabinet on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the shooting was not reflective of the military's conduct and rejected criticism of the armed forces' morals as "outrageous and unacceptable." But he also defended the military against its right-wing critics. "We must all support the IDF chief of staff, the IDF and our soldiers, who safeguard our security," he said.

The shooting came amid a six-month wave of Palestinian stabbings, shootings and car-ramming attacks that has killed 28 Israelis and two Americans. Over the same time, at least 188 Palestinians have died by Israeli fire. Israel says most were attackers, and the rest died in clashes with Israeli security forces.

Israel blames the attacks on incitement by Palestinian leaders and social media. Palestinians say the violence stems from frustration at nearly five decades of Israeli military occupation.

The Palestinians have also accused Israel of using excessive force and killing assailants who have already been stopped or wounded. A handful of amateur videos supporting the Palestinian claims have emerged in recent months, but Thursday's killing of Palestinian Abdel-Fattah al-Sharif was perhaps the clearest so far.

"The way al-Sharif was killed is very common, but this time we had the camera to film the extra-judicial killing," said Jamal Zakout, director of Al-Ard, a Palestinian think tank in the West Bank town of Ramallah. He said the Palestinians could use the killing as a "good example" in their appeal for "international protection" from Israel.

Ben Caspit, a liberal commentator with the Maariv daily, said Israel must protect its "moral backbone."

"The Israeli army is not an army that carries out extrajudicial executions," he said. "It must not be such an army. On that day, we will know what we have lost. Unfortunately, we are not far off from that loss."

Ian Deitch in Jerusalem and Mohammed Daraghmeh contributed to this report.
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Linkedin Sophan Cheang (The Jakarta Post) Phnom Penh, Cambodia  Mon, March 28, 2016

Cambodia on Monday welcomed home a 10th-century Khmer statue that was looted during the country's civil war before spending the past three decades at an American museum.



The sandstone Torso of Rama statue, which stands 62 inches (157 centimeters) high and is missing its head, arms and feet, was formally handed over at a ceremony in Phnom Penh attended by government officials, the US ambassador and the director of the Denver Museum of Art.



The museum said it acquired the statue in 1986 from the Doris Weiner Gallery in New York City but only recently learned new facts about its provenance.



"We were recently provided with verifiable evidence that was not available to us at the time of acquisition, and immediately began taking all appropriate steps ... for its return home," Christoph Heinrich, the museum's director, said in a joint statement with the Cambodian government.



Cambodia's Secretary of State Chan Thani thanked the museum for voluntarily returning the piece, which he said shows its sensitivity to Cambodian culture.



"The return also highlights the serious looting in the past that had occurred in our country and the government's efforts to repatriate those artifacts that left the country illegally, which are parts of our soul as a nation," he said in the statement.



The statue will be returned to its home at the Prasat Chen temple on the Koh Ker temple complex in Siem Reap province, which is also home to the famed Angkor Wat complex.



It is the latest artwork returned to Cambodia in recent years. Among the galleries that have repatriated art are the Guimet Museum in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Cleveland Museum of Art, Sotheby's auction house, Christie's auction house and the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadea, California.



Yim Nolson, an official in charge of Cambodian culture, said the statue was stolen during the civil war in the 1970s and later transported to the US



"Now after a long journey, he is finally back home," he said. (+)
Tomorrow night, theres a public visioning session on the renovation of Kimlau Square in Chinatown.

The mayors office and City Council member Margaret Chin have allocated $900,000 to make the space bordering Oliver Street and East Broadway more inviting.

The meeting will take place tomorrow from 6:30-8 p.m. at Mariners Temple Baptist Church, 3 Henry St. Once designers have renderings of the park, theyll go to Community Board 3 for approval. Tomorrow nights session is meant to provide them guidance from the local community.

Questions? Email matthew.beck@parks.nyc.gov.

Heres more from the Parks Dept. on the history of Kimlau Square:
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie is declining to make an endorsement in the special election to replace his predecessor, convicted Assemblyman Sheldon Silver. [Daily News]

NYCHA will announce today that its saddled with a $60 million deficit this year. [Daily News]

Neighborhood leaders marked the one year anniversary of the deadly 2nd Avenue explosion. [EV Grieve]

Dump Trump: Lower East Side artist Hanksy has created what could be seen, in decades to come, as the definitive artistic take on the 2016 race (for the White House). [The Independent]

Jon Snyder of il laboratorio del gelato is profiled: His interesting story bears lessons not only to achieving business excellence, but also personal happiness. [Forbes]
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Phuket school to become Thailand's first and only United World College (UWC)

Phuket International Academy is due to join the United World College (UWC) movement, a worldwide network of 15 prestigious schools and colleges. And so from August this year, the school will be known as United World College Thailand (UWCT), becoming the first and only UWC in the country.



By The Phuket News

Monday 28 March 2016, 09:16AM

Nelson Mandela, the late honorary President of UWC said; The striking feature of the UWCs is that they embrace the entire world .. They are unique and they are conscious of their responsibilities.



Founded in 1962 in the United Kingdom, the aim of the UWC movement was to bring together young people from areas of post-war conflict to act as champions of peace through an education based on shared learning, collaboration and understanding. Through its innovative and challenging programmes, UWC aims to inspire students to create a more peaceful and sustainable future.



To quote Her Majesty, Queen Noor of Jordan, current President of the UWC movement; "The goal of our educational movement is not simply to produce educated young people but also to nurture activists for peace and future leaders who can help resolve the challenges within their own societies and contribute to building bridges between communities and cultures within their regions and throughout the world."

Each of the United World Colleges around the world share a common vision and values and are committed to ensuring that as many students as possible experience a UWC education regardless of socioeconomic, cultural, racial and religious backgrounds. The aim is to create a deliberately diverse community in each school that represents a microcosm of the world, thus fostering international and intercultural understanding.

Phuket Governor, Chamroen Tipayapongtada remarked: I am very proud on behalf of Thailand that Phuket has been selected as the location for the UWCT ... We look forward to welcoming hundreds of international students and visitors who will make a tremendous impact on our local and national community.



Every year in excess of 1,000 students are selected by UWC National Committees based in over 150 countries and awarded scholarships to attend one of the schools or colleges. Scholarships have been offered to Thai students since 1976 during the term of then prime minister MR Kukrit Pramoj, who recognised the benefits and importance to Thailand of being part of UWC and appointed the first National Committee of Thailand.

By bringing together such a diverse group of engaged and motivated young people from across the globe, UWC is able to provide a transformational educational experience that no other school can provide. UWCT will accept 25 scholars into Grade 11 this August.



The UWC movement has long been at the forefront of international education and over the years has played a significant part in the development of the world-renowned IB Diploma Programme. With service at the heart of its Mission, UWC empowers students to become aware, able and active change agents in their communities; locally, regionally and globally. Through meaningful action, students are able to put their ideals and values into practice, cultivating their compassion and serving others.



Julian Whiteley, formerly Head of the United World College of South East Asia, and now Chief Executive at Phuket International Academy said, Having worked at UWCSEA, I am enormously proud of the fact that PIA will become only the second UWC in South East Asia, it is a very special place. The staff, supported by the school community, have worked incredibly hard over the last two years to achieve this.

UWC Thailand is due to officially open in August 2016, and is now accepting enrollments. For more information: www.pia.ac.th, www.uwc.org and www.ibo.org
Phuket water supplies enough for four more months if rainy season delayed: Provincial Waterworks

PHUKET: The head of the Phuket Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) has reiterated that the island is not at risk of drought crisis any time soon, citing plenty of reserves and distribution upgrades currently underway.

weathernatural-resourcestourism

By Suthicha Sirirat

Monday 28 March 2016, 12:20PM

On Wednesday, Pisak Cholayut, Director of the PWA told The Phuket News that he was confident supplies would last until May, when the Southwesterly monsoons typically return with rain to replenish the island's reservoirs, wells, and water retention lakes.

Shortly thereafter, the central Thai government announced that the start of the rainy season this year would be delayed by two months, from May to July, in much of the country as a result of climatic factors, prompting Mr Cholayut to reassess whether Phuket's reserves would be sufficient if the return of the southwesterly monsoon rains are delayed by two months.

Even if the rains didn't return until four months from now, we can still handle the drought situation. In addition to the water in our reservoirs, we're purchasing water from private sources at a rate of 12,000 cubic metres per day. Moreover, we're producing RO [reverse osmosis] from seawater, he said.

Mr Cholayut explained that the PWA has responsibility for supplying 70 per cent of the area of Phuket province, and supplies an average of 90,000m3 per day, to a total of 56,000 consumers.

He added that the PWA is in the process of upgrading Phuket's water distribution network, a project that commenced in August last year with a budget of B400 million, and expected to be complete by June this year.

As a result of the upgrades, our distribution capacity will increase from 90,000m3 per day to 130,000m3 per day, he noted.

He said that the PWA itself is producing tap water from two of its own facilities, and purchasing tap water from five private processing facilities.

Our total water production capacity is more than 3,000m3 per hour, or as much as 90,000m3 per day. We will have one more production facility in operation soon, at the Khlong Kratha reservoir, which will increase our production capacity by an additional 18,000m3 per day.

Phuket is growing rapidly and our capacity upgrades are underway, so some people [residing at homes located] at the end of distribution lines, or those high up on hills may be affected initially. In any case, in accordance with the PWA policy, we will continue to campaign for water conservation amongst all sectors in all parts of the country, he concluded.

Phuket is consistently one of the wettest provinces in the Kingdom, with average annual rainfall exceeding 2,300 millimetres (more than 92 inches).
Russian drug-dealer charged with fraud for selling paracetamol, not drugs

VILYUCHINSK: A man in Russia has been charged with fraud for selling paracetamol instead of illegal drugs after he passed off crushed headache pills to police during an anti-drugs raid.

drugspolicemilitaryRussian

By Anton Makhrov

Sunday 27 March 2016, 11:00AM

The Russian man is facing five years in jail for passing off paracetamol. Photo: Shieldkitten / Flickr

The Russian man, 22 years old but unnamed by state news agency TASS, was arrested by plainclothes officers in Vilyuchinsk, a closed city on the Kamchatka Peninsular in Russias Far East.

Vilyuchinsk is the renowned naval base that is home to the Russian Pacific Fleets much-feared nuclear submarines. During Cold War, the base, located in Avacha Bay, was labelled on NATO charts as the hornets nest.

Until 1994, special papers or a permit were needed to even enter the city, which today neighbours a large missile base.

Yet, a sting operation there left police floundering for charges to press against their suspect.

According to the TASS report, police received a tip-off that the man was dealing drugs and send in undercover officers to buy drugs to the value of 3,000 rubles (about B1,500).

The kind of drugs to be bought was not reported, but the exchange of cash for a bag containing ground white powder left the officers in want.

After conducting a test of the powder, which turned out to be nothing more than crushed paracetamol, the officers moved instead to file charges of fraud.

If found guilty, the suspect now faces up to five years in prison for his unethical business practice.
Suicide attack in Pakistan kills 65

PAKISTAN: At least 65 people were killed and hundreds injured, many of them children, when a suicide bomber blew himself up in a crowded Pakistani park where Christians were celebrating Easter.

religionviolence

By AFP

Monday 28 March 2016, 10:44AM

A Pakistani man carries an injured child to the hospital in Lahore after a suicide bomb ripped through the parking lot of a crowded park where Christians were celebrating Easter. Photo: Arif Ali/AFP

Explosives packed with ball bearings ripped through crowds near a childrens play area in the park in Lahore, leaving dozens dead or bloodied.

Witnesses described children screaming as people carried the injured in their arms, while frantic relatives searched for loved ones.

Javed Ali, a 35-year-old who lives opposite the park near the centre of the city, said the force of the blast shattered the windows of his home.

After 10 minutes I went outside. There was human flesh on the walls of our house. People were crying, I could hear ambulances, he said.

It was overcrowded because of Easter, there were a lot of Christians there. It was so crowded I told my family not to go.

Doctors described frenzied scenes at hospitals, with staff treating casualties on floors and in corridors, as officials tweeted calls for blood donations.

Witnesses said the wounded were first taken to hospital in rickshaws and other vehicles before dozens of ambulances arrived on the scene.

Lahores top administration official, Muhammad Usman, said 65 people had been killed in the suicide attack, and more than 50 children were among the injured.

The bomber managed to enter the park and blew himself up near the kids playing area where kids were on the swings, he told AFP.

A splinter group of the Pakistan Taliban said it carried out the attack, according to the website of the Express Tribune.

We claim responsibility for the attack on Christians as they were celebrating Easter, a spokesperson for Jamaatul Ahrar was quoted as saying.

Officials said the toll  already the highest in an attack this year  was expected to rise.

A Lahore rescue official confirmed 65 people were dead, and said the number of injured stood at 340.

Facebook activated its safety check system, so people could tell friends and relatives they were safe, but a glitch meant notifications were sent to people all over the world.

The company later apologised, but some users said the error meant news of the attack spread more quickly than it might otherwise have done.

Pakistans Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif expressed his grief and sorrow over the sad demise of innocent lives.

His Indian counterpart Narendra Modi telephoned to say the people of India stand with their Pakistani brethren in this hour of grief, state media reported.

The US labelled the incident cowardly, while Pakistans Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai tweeted: Pakistan and the world must unite. Every life is precious and must be respected and protected.

A military spokesman said intelligence agencies were chasing all leads while the government of Punjab province, of which Lahore is the capital, declared three days of mourning.

The Vatican condemned the attack, calling it fanatical violence against Christian minorities, and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon called for Islamabad to protect religious minorities.

Christians make up an estimated 1.6 per cent of the Pakistans 200 million people, the vast majority of which are Muslim, and have long faced discrimination.

Twin suicide attacks against churches in Lahore killed 17 people in March last year, sparking two days of rioting by thousands of Christians.

Attacks targeting children have a special resonance in Pakistan, still scarred by a Taliban assault in Peshawar in 2014 that killed 150 people, mostly children.

A military operation targeting insurgents was stepped up in response, and last year the death toll from militant attacks fell to its lowest since the Pakistani Taliban were formed in 2007.

Lahore, capital of Punjab province, has been relatively peaceful in recent years, but the insurgents have demonstrated a chilling ability to continue attacks on soft targets.

In January, the Pakistani Taliban launched an assault on a university in Charsadda, near Peshawar, that left 21 dead and spurred a call to arm teachers.
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The Occupy Wall Street movement in 2011 spread almost overnight from a New York park to over 30 other countries. It was a brief, shining moment of protest, familiar to those who grew up in the 1960s and 70s and lived through demonstrations about the Vietnam War, government corruption, the establishment. One of the people who inspired Occupy and its message of concern about the corporate funding of political parties is Micah White. White has written The End of Protest: A New Playbook for Revolution. It explains his understanding of social movements and his suggestions for future activists. Our conversation has been edited for length.

Jennifer: You say at the beginning of your book that the Occupy movement failed. Really?

Micah: Yeah, I think I am trying to resist the common narrative. There is this story we tell ourselves as activists, which is that nothing is a defeat. It is an enlightening, beautiful story. But that story stops us from understanding why we didnt actually achieve our objectives. Why didnt our encampment solve what it meant to solve: getting money out of politics? For me, when we celebrate our failures as success, we hold ourselves back from understanding how they failed. We failed because we didnt achieve what we set out to do, that is, to get money out of politics. But we achieved a lot of other things. Thats why I call it a constructive failure.

Jennifer: I dont think you failed. You changed the way the world is now thinking about economics and work. Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton were listening to you. Was it a failure because it didnt incite a social revolution?

Micah: In Hillarys emails, there is information about Occupy. Someone went down to Zuccotti Park and asked to get a poster for her. So clearly they are assimilating our language. But it is important  and I think this is hard for people to understand  you shouldnt confuse the head with the tail. Occupy Wall Street was the head and all of these other things are symptoms; they are the tails.

Obviously, Occupy had effects and consequences. It raised awareness around this issue, but those are just symptoms of our creation of a mass movement. Take the example of Black Lives Matter: yes, it has raised the issue of black men being shot by police, but nothing has changed really. Black men are still being shot. If you start celebrating the awareness, you lose perspective about the deeper questions. We made an effort to get money out of politics and it didnt happen. I am not saying Occupy had no positive consequences. It buoyed a lot of social protesters. It made activism cool again. It brought certain arguments to the fore.

Jennifer: There is a tidal wave of change in the way people, after Occupy, think about the economy. You say Occupy didnt create a revolution. What did you really want?

Micah: A revolution, I argue, is a change of legal regime and Occupy Wall Street was trying to change how corporations and unions give money to political candidates.

When you create a social movement, your goal is not to raise awareness. Raising awareness is merely a symptom of the fact that youve created a social movement. Are we content in creating movements that make the powerful stay in place and let the establishment use our language? Or are we trying to say, no, we want the people themselves in power.

Jennifer: Donald Trump is essentially leading a revolution. The core group supporting him is made up of disaffected, unemployed men who feel they have been deserted by the federal and state governments.

Micah: The left shouldnt just assume they are going to be the best at creating mass movements. There is a yearning to be part of a collective. Part of what was beautiful about Occupy is that you would go to these assemblies, youd be immersed in the collective, everyone would be chanting in unison. It was a beautiful, spiritual experience.

Jennifer: Your book was supported and published by Canadians, even though you are American. Could it have been published in the States?

Micah: No. We tried to find an American publisher but we got an insane number of rejections and the rejections all said the same thing: This book is fascinating, it is well written, it is important, but there is no market for it. Hundreds of thousands of people around the world were involved with Occupy. The American publishers were just worried about the saleability of the book. What publishers didnt understand was that people are very hungry for critical thinking and a perspective on activism, both spiritually and philosophically.

Jennifer: Revolutions can be good and bad. Jesus was a protest leader. Protests against the war in Vietnam helped push Lyndon Johnson out of the White House. But look at the Bolsheviks, the French Jacobins in the 18th century, the Nazis who both started as street parties and Mao, too.

Micah: Yes, but we cant continue to blindly follow the contemporary paradigm of activism, which is to get people into the streets. We saw that experience in World War II by Nazi Germany to give people a sense of collectiveness. Protest is a form of warfare and a kind of weapon. Ultimately I am optimistic that social movements will be more democratic than they are totalitarian.

We have to create social change and Occupy didnt work because it wasnt able to get money out of politics. Even though Bernie Sanders is spouting ideas that sound very much like the Occupy party line, you have to understand that what was revolutionary in 2011 may not seem revolutionary the next year.

In my book I am trying to offer new tactics for social change.

The core idea would be to build social movements to win elections and govern cities and carry out a social agenda. There is a model like that developing in Europe. The first model is Internet-enabled social movements that are able to develop complex decision making to create platforms and agree on laws. There is an emergence of new tactics.

We have become good at creating globally synchronized events. If you look at all the elections in the world and put them in chronological order, you can then imagine a social movement that can arise quickly and swing the election and then go to another country and swing the election there. So you go around the globe and try to win elections in each country.

Ideas from the edges of politics are the ones that suddenly inspire people and take off.

Jennifer: Revolutions have long-lasting results.

Micah: Some people say it takes three generations for a revolution to be truly complete. As Thomas Jefferson said, The generation which commences a revolution rarely completes it.

Occupy changed my life forever. It changed other peoples lives forever. But what I am trying to get across is that we can do bigger and better. People didnt think we could do something as big as Occupy, but I think we can do something bigger than Occupy. It requires a reassessment of our theories of social change and broadening our horizon of social possibility.

Jennifer: Good luck.

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ISTANBUL, TURKEYIn 2007, Syria was a country of organized chaos, where everything worked precisely as much as it needed to and not an inch more, where kids stayed up late and no government authority warned their parents to do otherwise. Some Syrians sought fun at nightclubs, others found solace in the mosque. There was no Daesh, no refugee crisis, no war.

Arriving at Damascuss grubby bus station in January of that year, I wondered if telling everyone at home in Ireland that I was leaving permanently was such a good idea. I had moved to Syria months after graduating university in a personal rebellion against Celtic Tiger Irelands faux, self-congratulatory party world.

I spoke no Arabic and had little knowledge of the regions people and politics. I had no job, no income; I knew no one. I was motivated by frustration, a frustration that saw me through the 36-hour bus journey from Istanbul to Damascus and again when I found myself on the wrong side of Damascus, alone, late at night, because I misunderstood someones directions.

It is a stereotype that Syrians are friendly, and it is true in comparative Western terms. But in 2007 Syria was also a deeply troubled country. Colonial Europe had taken a dagger to the Middle East early in the 20th century and a hundred years later the wounds had become festering sores in the form of dictators.

Still, from 2007 until 2010, Syria was a country on the up. In 2008, President Bashar Assad was then French president Nicholas Sarkozys guest of honour at Bastille Day celebrations in Paris. Two years later, Vogue magazine sent a top writer and photographer to Damascus to profile Syrias secular First Lady, Asma Assad.

More important to Syrians was the opening of a dozen international private banks. Before then, young Syrians depended on their parents for money to buy a car or to pay for a wedding; now mortgages and car loans liberated anyone with a stable job from the yoke of their father.

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Photographers last works reveal an intimate view of Syrias tragedy

However, away from the cities a three-year drought that began in 2008 was destroying families in the east. Thousands fled to the cities where, without bank accounts or employment, they fell into poverty and desperation. Climbing into taxis in 2010, blow-in drivers from the countryside would ask me Wheres that? when told where to go.

Working as a reporter under the Assad regime was a challenge long before 2011. Repression was rising. My Syrian friends had repeatedly warned: Write about anything you want, but dont take on politics or religion.

So when security forces began to crack down on protesters in March, 2011, and the worlds media wanted to know what was happening, reporting became not only difficult, but dangerous. It didnt matter  in the way it didnt matter for local demonstrators  that by then I spoke Arabic and knew my way around the city and its satellite towns.

It helped that I rarely put a byline to my writings and that my residency in Syria was secured through an Irish business newspaper that hid my articles behind a paywall. But even basic acts of journalism proved trying. Asking people in the street about the emerging crisis risked both parties being outed to intelligence agents. Syrians were more afraid of me than I of them, and with good reason  thats how a dictatorship keeps its people down.

Away from the violence and revolutionary furor, regular folks started acting differently, too: motorists no longer stopped at traffic lights, and homeowners began to build additions without seeking municipal approval. These actions may sound trivial, but they have spun around in my head since then  why would people abandon the certainties that meant their society functioned? In retrospect, they reveal something: for generations, Syrians had lived under a ruthless and cunning regime that told its people what to do, how to think and what to say. When that power slipped, it was like taking the cap off a bottle of shaken cola.

Seeing a country disintegrate in such apparently inconsequential ways was nonetheless chilling; to counter the feeling that the world around me was collapsing, I often repeated to myself a propaganda dictum used by the government ostensibly to stop people from protesting. It went: ana ma il-qanoon (Im with the law). But by vowing not to be drawn into the chaos, I was doing the governments own work.

At times it was easier to pretend that life was normal enough. By the time I married a local girl in a tiny Catholic Church outside Damascus two months after the revolt broke out  a church separated from the capital by a string of checkpoints  it was less difficult to be of the mind that what was good for Syrians was good for me.

Like everyone else in Syria we struggled on, for 10 months, through the rolling blackouts and rocketing food prices. I would, like anyone else with a car, spend entire days driving from gas station to gas station in search of enough fuel to get through another week. When we needed cooking gas we were happy to pay inflated prices  in full knowledge we were contributing to a market that made it more difficult for others to afford.

The chilling day I finally decided to leave Syria involved an assignment to a poor suburb of Damascus called Saqba. It was February, 2012. Days earlier, the nascent Free Syrian Army had been in control of the district, but over a weekend it had been taken back by the regime. I, along with a couple of foreign reporters including the foreign editor of the London Times, Rick Beeston, went searching for an underground hospital. What we found instead was far more chilling: a mass grave. Locals said it was the work of government militias who had rampaged through the neighbourhood in the days before.

There is nothing romantic about journalism that sees you staring into the eye sockets of men who have had their noses hacked off and their torsos blackened by fire, as happened in Saqba that day. There is nothing exciting about looking into the eyes of a mother of seven from Idlib, in northern Syria, whom I met recently on the Syrian-Turkish border where she recounted how her husband went missing and alluded to having been raped by jihadists.

Every day, I ask myself whether I should walk away from the Middle East because journalism makes no difference in the face of such slaughter. But the feeling persists that these are events of historical consequence. And because I was there at the start, its my job to continue documenting them.

What is troubling now is the growing assertion that the war in Syria is this month five years old; in an important sense, thats simply not the case. I was there in 2011, and what I saw was not a two-sided war. It was a government unleashing hell on its people.

But dont take my word for it. Ask the skinny students who unfurled a flag emblazoned with the word freedom outside Damascus University in 2011 if they thought themselves war combatants. Ask the young women and men who risked their lives by imploring their fellow countrymen  and the world  to stand up against oppression if they are terrorists.

Claiming today that the war in Syria is five years old writes these brave people right out of history. And that, I know, should never happen.

Stephen Starr lived in Syria for five years until 2012. He is the author of Revolt in Syria: Eye-Witness to the Uprising. He now lives in Istanbul.

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With Syrias civil war passing its fifth anniversary, aid agencies released tallies of the staggering human cost: 250,000 people killed, 6.6 million Syrians displaced within the country and more than 4.8 million refugees.

Conrad Sauve, CEO of the Canadian Red Cross, just returned from a trip to Syria, Lebanon and Turkey, where the Red Cross is supporting the Syrian Arab Red Crescents mobile health clinics. Despite a recently brokered ceasefire, getting food, water and medical care to Syrians, many of whom are still under siege, remains difficult.

What are the challenges in delivering aid?

Right now, access is complicated, fragmented and negotiated. We have to negotiate with all sides, and suspicion in a time of war is extremely high. Its not just about getting in, but also can you control the distribution and ensure supplies get to the people who need it? Sometimes we are called at the last minute, at 4 p.m., and told, you can go into this place today. Its not just the government that has to say yes, there are numerous fighting groups and they have to accept that you go in at the same time. ISIS (Daesh) isnt negotiating with anyone so we cannot get to the areas they control.

Also at thestar.com:

Photographers last works reveal an intimate view of Syrias tragedy

How dangerous is it?

In the last five years, 60 of our Red Crescent volunteers have been shot. After weve been told it is OK to go in, they were shot, usually by snipers. You can see the complexities of making the decision to go in. If youre with the army, youre exposed. You have to be accepted by all sides as being impartial and unarmed. And yet remarkably, the Red Crescent has been recruiting more and more volunteers. Syrians want to be engaged in something good.

What are living conditions like for ordinary Syrians?

There are severe cases of malnutrition in cases where forces on either side have besieged a place, cut off the electricity, water and supply lines. That was the case in Madaya (a city under siege by government forces and reached by the International Committee of the Red Cross only in January). There are other places like that where people are starving. The United Nations estimates almost 500,000 people are living under siege in Syria, while 4.6 million are hard to reach.

How are ordinary Syrians coping?

I met one 75-year-old man in a rural area near Homs who was only two hours from his home, and yet he still couldnt go back. He said I cant take it anymore. Im living in a tent. Its been four years, four winters. I cant see the end. There is a lot of despair, and yet there is also resilience.

In February, the U.S. and Russia brokered a ceasefire with government forces and the Free Syrian Army, though it does not apply to Daesh, al-Nusra or other terrorist organizations. What do Syrians think of this?

Nobody knows whether it will work or not but everyone is hopeful. Thats what keeps people going, the hope that things are going to get better. When people perceive there is no hope, they pick up their things, sell everything and hit the road.

What was it like travelling there for you?

I walked through the old city of Homs which is totally destroyed. It was very dramatic too see such damage. I also went to Barzeh (near Damascus) to an area that is part of a ceasefire. On both sides of the streets I saw houses riddled with bullet holes, an amazing amount of destruction. In another part of town, we had the leader of a rebel force on one side, and the government on the other, in between them was a hospital, and the Red Cross is funding its reopening. It was surreal. The clinic had been occupied by one of the fighting forces and had tunnels in the basement.

This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.

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The continuing war on terror is the grim reality of 2016.

Last week, terrorist attacks in Brussels brought issues of global security to the forefront once again.

Whether we like it or not, military powers around the globe will be stepping up their strategies in the continued offense against groups such as ISIS. In doing so, profits will be made by those looking to invest in the weapons that will be used.

And one company is at the front of the pack and could provide investors with quick, explosive profits.

Lockheed Martin (LMT) is an American aerospace, defense, and security company and the world's largest defense contractor. Among its arsenal of products are laser-guided smart bombs and Hellfire missiles.

And Lockheed Martin has said that it will ramp up production of these weapons, thanks to increased demand from the U.S. Department of Defense and the nation's allies such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the Middle Eastern countries of Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The company plans to expand operations at its munitions production facility in Archbald, Pa., and it has already added 60,000 square feet to its Troy, Ala., missile factory.

"We are seeing a lot of international demand for our product set," Frank St. John, Lockheed Martin's vice president of tactical missiles, told Defense One, a news site aimed at national security leaders. "That's causing us to do a lot of work in international partnerships and co-production, and we're very excited about those opportunities ... It requires a little bit of investment on our part to expand the factories, but the demand is there and we're keeping up with it."

Lockheed Martin's production increase is being funded in part by the federal government. Last year, the Pentagon gave the company $18 million to up its production of Hellfire missiles to 650, from 500 per month.

Between August 2014 and this February, the United States dropped almost 40,000 bombs, a total value of $1.5 billion, according to data from the Department of Defense.

Last month, Secretary of Defense Ash Carter authorized the military to order 45,000 new smart bombs in fiscal 2017, worth about $1.8 billion.

In total, the Army plans to spend $1.89 billion on bombs next year and as much as $337 million this year. Those are surefire profits for Lockheed Martin's investors.

Lockheed Martin will continue to profit from missile production and expects the continuing fight with ISIS to take years.

"I don't see events in the world changing dramatically over the next couple of years," St. John told Defense One. "The conflicts that are requiring the use of our systems are lingering, so anticipate that we'll be producing at a pretty high level for some period of time."

As demand for missiles and smart bombs increases, so will the profits for munitions contractors and companies such as Lockheed Martin, Northrup Grumman and Raytheon. However, Lockheed Martin remains at the front of the pack and in increasing demand.

Lockheed Martin's stock is trading at about $218. Expect robust sales and growth to continue for this company as well as explosive gains for investors.

You see Jim Cramer on TV. Now, see where he invests his money and why Lockheed Martin stock is a core holding of his multimillion-dollar portfolio. Want to be alerted before Jim Cramer buys or sells LMT? Learn more now.

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This article is commentary by an independent contributor. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned.
A suicide bomber killed dozens of people and injured several hundred others in a park in the Pakistani city of Lahore Sunday evening.

New York Times and BBCreports put the death toll at 69 with hundreds more wounded. Lahore is in the northeastern region of Pakistan about 15 miles from the Indian border.

The bomber struck in a crowded parking lot at Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park, one of the largest parks in Lahore. A faction of the Pakistan Taliban, Jamaat-e-Ahrar, claimed responsibility for the attack, the Times reported.

"It was also to give a message to government that it cannot deter us even in their stronghold, Lahore," the group quoted Mr. Ehsan as saying in a message to the Times.

Lahore is the political base of prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, who still conducts government business from his suburban Lahore home. The sprawling metropolis is Pakistan's second largest city and a major economic, transportation and cultural hub. It has a population of more than 10 million, including surrounding areas, with about 5% Christian.

Government officials said that Christians were not the target, but The New York Times reported that a large number of Christian families were in the park at the time to celebrate the holiday. The Times of India reported that an unusually large number of people were in the park perhaps because of the holiday.

Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park features a large artificial lake and has nearly 70 acres of walking paths, playground equipment and rides.

The Times of Indiareported that the bomber was in his 20s and seemed to target a swings area frequented by children. Eyewitnesses in different news reports described a scene of chaos immediately after the blast and carnage similar to a war zone with parents searching for their children and rescuers arriving on the scene to transport victims to area hospitals.

Pakistan has struggled with violence in recent years as it attempts to battle extremists. Tensions have run particularly high over the past month following the the Feb. 29 execution of Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri. Qadri was convicted of killing Salmaan Taseer, a state governor who had campaigned for changes in the country's blasphemy laws, in January 2011. Qadri was one of Taseer's bodyguards.

Thousands of Qadri supporters have marched in the streets to protest the execution and to support the blasphemy laws that have been an integral part of Pakistani society. Critics of the blasphemy laws have said that they have made it easier to prosecute minority religions.

The country's violence and political instability have hamstrung the country's economic growth, even as neighboring rival India has ranked among the most dynamic emerging markets. Pakistani GDP per capita ranked just 145th in the world in GDP per capita, and Pakistan has had difficulty providing adequate services to support industry, including transportation and electric power.

A recent International Monetary Fund report suggested that Pakistan was showing some signs of improvement. But the IMF also said that it was important to continue reforms that would root out corruption and continue to stimulate growth.
Sprout Pharmaceuticals has accused Valeant Pharmaceuticals of overcharging for the Sprout's Addyi treatment, TheStreet's TV anchor Rhonda Schaffler reports in the video, above.

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Valeant Pharmaceuticals (VRX) stock is down by 8.26% to $28.54 in midday trading on Monday, after SproutPharmaceuticals said the company could be violating its merger agreement and CEO Michael Pearson was subpoenaed for a Congressional hearing.

In a letter to Valeant, Sprout investors alleged the Canadian pharmaceutical company has overcharged for the company's Addyi treatment, Bloomberg reports. Sprout was acquired by Valeant in 2015 for about $1 billion. Addyi is a treatment for women with Hypoactive (low) Sexual Desire Disorder.

The letter asks for proof that Valeant is not violating the companies' merger agreement, such as details surrounding Valeant's investment in marketing for the drug, according to Bloomberg.

"Valeant predatorily priced Addyi at $800 a month even though Sprout had established a price point of approximately $400 a month for the drug based on market research," the investor group said, according to Bloomberg. "As a result of this predatory pricing, insurance companies refused to cover the drug, which has led to the drug not being affordable for millions of women."

Additionally, Valeant CEO Michael Pearson has been subpoenaed to testify at a U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging hearing on April 27, Reuters reports. The committee is investigating drug pricing.

Last week, Valeant announced that Pearson would step down from the company.

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 "hold" with a ratings score of C. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its robust revenue growth and expanding profit margins. However, as a counter to these strengths, we also find weaknesses including deteriorating net income, a generally disappointing performance in the stock itself and feeble growth in the company's earnings per share.

You can view the full analysis from the report here: VRX
TrueCar (TRUE) said it overhauled its digital platform for carbuyers and adjusted its business policies in order to improve the benefit to customers and dealers, following a three-month "assessment" by the company's new CEO.

The company's shares, which were battered last year after the nation's No. 1 dealer group AutoNation (AN) dropped affiliation with the company, rose briefly in November on the hiring of Chip Perry, an industry veteran, as CEO to replace Scott Painter. But shares have collapsed again, falling 44% year to date on a weak fourth-quarter report and tepid guidance for 2016.

Although thousands of car dealers nationwide became customers of TrueCar's digital service, which reveals average prices paid for vehicles, many opposed "race to the bottom" pricing that squeezed their profit margins. AutoNation was among dealers that resisted TrueCar's use of proprietary customer data.

"Our goal is to provide the best value for car buyers and dealers among all third-party automotive sites, but it was apparent to me that there were aspects of TrueCar's service that were suboptimal," Perry said in a statement. More changes will be undertaken this year, the company said.

A new crop of digital start-ups, funded by more than $500 million in capital, are under way with the aim of allowing consumers to buy and take delivery of new and used vehicles without visiting dealerships in the conventional manner.

One school of thought among investors was that TrueCar had become a "left for dead" stock upon the resignation of Painter. The hiring of Perry, a founder of the AutoTrader Web site in the 1990s, showed that directors could pull a rabbit out of their hat, perhaps justifying more patience and a longer-term view of the company's potential.

Alan Ohnsman, a TrueCar spokesman, said consumers will receive more detailed and accurate pricing information about specific vehicles in inventory, rather than vehicles they can configure according to preferred options and colors. The goal -- "no surprises" when they go to the dealership to close the transaction.

Dealers now will be able to subscribe to the service for a flat fee, rather than pay according to the number of transactions, Ohnsman said in an email.

Of the five analysts that have issued recommendations on the stock in 2016, four have reiterated neutral ratings and one has downgraded to a sell from a neutral, according to MarketBeat.

The next six to 12 months could be decisive for Perry and TrueCar, since the new-vehicle market in the U.S. is in the late stage of a growth cycle. Once sales flatten or fall, dealers will be looking for ways to cut marketing costs, a category that includes money spent on TrueCar's services.

Those investors that have hung on will be watching and listening carefully to determine whether U.S. car dealers -- the most critical constituency influencing the company's recovery -- approve of Perry's new approach.

END

Doron Levin is the host of "In the Driver Seat," broadcast on SiriusXM Insight 121, Saturday at noon, encore Sunday at 9 a.m.

This article is commentary by an independent contributor. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned.
NEW YORK (TheStreet) --Shares of Whiting Petroleum (WLL) are down by 5.7% to $7.11 on Monday morning, as some energy and related stocks slip today due to the retreat in the price of oil.

The commodity is trading below $40 per barrel this morning as investors doubt that talks due to be held by oil producers next month will result in a reduction in the global supply glut.

Crude oil (WTI) is declining by 1.06% to $39.04 per barrel and Brent crude is lower by 1.63% to $39.78 per barrel.

Iran and Libya are the two members of OPEC that have not agreed to attend the production freeze talks on April 17 in Doha, Qatar, Bloomberg reports.

"There's a growing realization that the meeting in Doha is not going to be effective," Thomas Finlon, director of Energy Analytics Group told Bloomberg. "The U.S. has lost about 500,000 barrels a day from its peak but the Iranians are planning to increase output by more than 1 million, so we're going to see the surplus grow."

Whiting Petroleum is a Denver-based independent oil and gas company that explores for, develops, acquires and produces crude oils and natural gas liquids.

Separately, TheStreet Ratings has set a "sell" rating and a score of D on Whiting Petroleum stock. This is driven by a few notable weaknesses, which TheStreet Ratings believes 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 it covers.

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.

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
Influenced by his father's service in the Korean War and close military friends, Alex Gorsky, 55, who graduated from West Point in 1982, said he had dreamed of attending the prestigious military academy since sixth grade.

While there he went to Army Ranger School and earned the Ranger Tab. Army Rangers are an elite military formation and the "Army's premier direct-action raid force," according to the Army website.

He said that Ranger School was one of the most challenging experiences he ever had in his life.

"No matter how high the wall, how wide, how deep the water, whatever it was, you would figure out a way to make it through successfully," Gorsky said during an interview for TheStreet's Rising Through the Ranks series.

"Always trying to see the glass as being half full and persevering through a lot of challenges to get to your ultimate goal is certainly something I learned in Ranger School."

He went on to serve six years in the military, ending his career with the rank of captain.

One important military strategy that Gorsky says he uses at J&J is making sure that people feel they are part of a mission that is greater than themselves.

"In the military that 'cause' really motivated people far beyond the day-to-day tasks that they do on their jobs," Gorsky said. "When they know that, ultimately, they are helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives, they feel pretty special and even that much more motivated."

Johnson and Johnson (JNJ) has a mission statement, created over 70 years ago, before the company went public, by the son of J&J's founder and chairman at the time, Robert W. Johnson. "Our Credo," states the health care company's responsibility to serve.

"When we get 'Our Credo' right, we do well across all areas of our business," Gorsky said.

The first line of "Our Credo" reads, "We believe our first responsibility is to the doctors, nurses and patients, to the mothers and fathers and all others who use our products and services."

The second responsibility in "Our Credo" is to the J&J employees, a third is to the their local and world communities and lastly to their stockholders.

Since becoming the CEO and chairman of J&J in 2012, the stock has increased by 62% from $66.21 in April of 2012 to the current stock price of $107.28, while jumping 6% from last year's stock price of $101.06.

Gorsky attributes his success since becoming CEO to the J&J employees, a focus on innovation, and executing the business with a high level of efficiency and effectiveness. But he also utilizes a military concept of creating a well-executed and detailed plan.
Steve Jobs. Jack Dorsey. Tim Westergren. All three started their respective companies, saw the businesses turn south and felt the need to take over the role as CEO: Steve Jobs with Apple (AAPL) , Dorsey with Twitter (TWTR) . Now Westergren, the founder of Pandora (P) , will take over as CEO.

He replaces Brian McAndrews, who had been serving as the CEO since September 2013.

Apparently, investors aren't happy with the move because shares are down more than 12% at the end of trading Monday to $9.60, which more than negates Thursday's rally of 7.4%. Driving the rally last week was speculation the company might be putting itself up for sale.

Now that Westergren is at the helm, investors feel Pandora may not be looking to sell itself but focus on growing the company. Those investments aren't necessarily cheap and that could weigh on earnings growth.

The recent decline adds to Pandora's woes, with shares down 28% on the year and more than 40% over the past 12 months. This all despite the continued improvement in music streaming revenues, which overtook music download revenue for the first time in 2015.

Although not showing the same type of volatility seen in Pandora, shares of Yahoo! (YHOO) are up about 1% Monday on news of the company's efforts to sell its core business.

Put simply, what started off as a dream come true for Yahoo! has turned into a complete nightmare. Years after investing in Alibaba (BABA) , the Chinese tech giant launched its IPO in September 2014. Yahoo! had a one-year lockup expiration before it could sell its now-massive position in Alibaba, as the share prices for both stocks climbed higher and higher into Nov. 11, 2014 -- Single's Day in China.

Shares of Alibaba peaked at $120 on the nose, and have since been in steady decline, bringing down Yahoo! from over $50 per share to the current price of $35 -- although shares traded below $27 as recently as February.

The original plan was for Yahoo! to spin off its Alibaba asset into a separate holding, but confusion arose whether that would trigger a massive tax bill for the struggling Internet company. As a result, Yahoo! has now turned to selling its core business in hopes that it won't trigger a tax bill, and if it does, it will be far smaller than that of a Alibaba-sized tax bill.

Microsoft (MSFT) , of all companies, could be in the mix to help finance part of the purchase for private equity firms. Microsoft is looking to preserve its "longstanding search and advertising agreements with Yahoo!," according to Reuters.



While many have gauged the company to be worth between $6 billion to $8 billion, Yahoo! is apparently looking for a valuation closer to $10 billion. Just a few days ago, Starboard Value made good on its word to try shaking up the board of directors if Yahoo! couldn't get its act together.

Shares of Yahoo! closed at $35.23, up 1.1% Monday.

Last we heard, the FBI had figured out a way to hack the iPhone of the San Bernardino shooter without the help of Apple.

While some criticized the FBI's move to use a third party -- after insisting that only Apple could provide it access -- the agency may have found a way to rebound.

Because of the terrorist attack in Brussels, some believe the public will shift its view on whether Apple's arguments about privacy and opening the door to more hacking is valid.

The Brussels attack could weaken Apple's defense if it is found vital data are trapped on a mobile device used by one of the bombers that the government can't hack.

The FBI will provide an update April 5 on to whether it was able to hack the device with the help of a third party.

Shares of Apple closed at $105.19, down 0.5% on Monday.

This article is commentary by an independent contributor. At the time of publication, the author held no positions in the stocks mentioned.
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Four residents of the eastern capital in their 20s are in custody and were indicted on erev Shabbos for trying to join an Islamic State terror cell.

According to the information released to the media, the four, who were backed by agents in Syria, held regular study groups to become increasingly familiar with ISIS ideology planned to targeted foreign diplomatic facilities in Jerusalem. this would include consulates and embassies.

One of the cell members traveled to Turkey last summer and then asked to be smuggled into Syria to join the fighting however he lacked the $2,000 smuggling fee and returned home. The second raised sufficient funds but his dad learned of his plans and stopped him.

The cell members were indicted in the Jerusalem Magistrate Court on multiple charges including contact with an enemy agent, trying to join an illegal organization and trying to assist a terror organization.

(YWN  Israel Desk, Jerusalem)
[by Rabbi Yair Hoffman for the Five Towns Jewish Times]

Utilizing the latest ground-penetrating radar technology, a team of archaeologists has recently claimed that, in fact, rumors of William Shakespeares skull having been stolen are probably true. If true, the famous bards skull was stolen from Shakespeares grave in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, England at the Holy Trinity Church burial site.

The new discovery brings new credence to what was thought to be a long-discredited claim that the skull was stolen from the playwrights grave by trophy hunters way back in 1794.

We came across this very odd, strange thing at the head end, lead archaeologist Kevin Colls, of Staffordshire University, told the British newspaper, The Guardian. It was very obvious.. that there was something different going on at that particular spot. We have concluded it is signs of disturbance, of material being dug out and put back again.

The claim that the skull was stolen was first published in a magazine in 1879. Colls said the team investigated a skull held at a church 15 miles from Stratford and found out that it could not be Shakespeares.

A MAIS IS SACROSANCT

Halacha, of course, views a mais as sacrosanct and absolutely forbids violating it or disrespecting it. Not that those eighteenth century grave diggers would follow halacha, or that it would apply to them, but it is interesting to explore the Jewish view on a halachic mais.

FIVE DIFFERENT AREAS

There are five different areas in Halacha where this issue comes forth. We will briefly explore all of the areas and sources that discuss honoring the deceased. It should be understood that the discussion is in regard to Torah law that applies to relatives of those to whom Torah law is applicable. Indeed, this author received a psak from Rav Dovid Feinstein to that effect in regard to a Ger whose brother was arranging a cremation for his father.

BURYING A BODY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

The first one deals with the obligation incumbent upon all Jews to bury a deceased body as expeditiously as possible. This would include reinterring a skull that was taken illicitly. The book of Genesis tells us that Man was created in the Divine image. It is a matter of utmost import in Jewish law never to insult the Creator by leaving His Handiwork  unburied in a state of indignity and disgrace. Maimonides describes immediate burial as a sacred obligation incumbent upon all of Israel, at all times and in all places. This would apply, it seems, to a head that was stolen as well.

DISGRACING THE BODY

The second area deals with disgracing the body. The Talmud (Bava Basra 154a) deals with the prohibition of disgracing or defacing the human body. This is a separate issue from the obligation discussed above.

BENEFITING FROM A MAIS

The third area deals with a prohibition in ever benefiting from the deceased human body. It would be absolutely forbidden to have a head as a trophy, heaven forbid. The Talmud in numerous places (Sanhedrin 47b, Avodah Zarah 29b, as examples) describes how it is reprehensible to ever derive benefit from a deceased human body. The only time an exception to this can be made is to directly save a human life. However, to derive any physical benefit from a body is something that should be avoided at all costs.

ISSUES OF THEFT

The fourth area deals with the notion of theft. The human body is sacred and belongs to no one but G-d. It is for this reason that autopsies are absolutely forbidden as well. We cannot deface, cut open, and or examine the body of a deceased family member. Just as they are not ours to examine or cut open, so too are the bodies of our family members not ours to examine, cut open or explore even in an autopsy. The issue is one of out and out theft as explained in the Talmud (Gittin 20a, Kiddushin 17a  see also Ran Nedarim 47a).

SENSITIVITY

Finally, the fifth area deals with sensitivity. Jewish tradition tells us that the soul is in a state of anxiety and anguish until it is buried in the ground. The more it sees its body being explored, cut, etc. the more agitated the soul becomes. One of the most basic ideas in which a society can be judged lies in how that society treats the helpless. Does our society abuse the weak, the elderly, the children  in short, those who cannot speak up for themselves? If so, this does not bode well for us. By the same token we cannot abuse the soul in its most fragile state.

PILEGESH BGIVAH

It is this authors view, by the way, that there seems to be a debate as to how to understand the incident of Pilegesh bGivah at the end of Shoftim. Rav Moshe Feinstein zatzal seems to understand that the husband did not act incorrectly when the Pilegesh body was cut up. He explains in a response that it was a situation of direct Pikuach Nefesh. Other commentators, however, seem to understand the husbands action as removed from Torah.

CONCLUSION

The ideas expressed in this article may seem new to the uninitiated. But these beliefs, customs and traditions lie at the core of the Jewish nation. Whenever they are violated they cause extreme stress and anguish to observant Jews. True, the discussion came up in regard to Shakespeares skull, but the ideas and ideals discussed here are primary to what the Torah wishes us to aspire.

It is interesting, or perhaps ironicthat , Shakespeares grave famously bears the poetic admonition, Blessed be the man that spares these stones, / And cursed be he that moves my bones. Could it be that he anticipated this reaction? Was this perhaps a divine retribution for having created Shylocks pound of flesh?

The author can be reached at [email protected]
Japans government said Monday that it will stick to its policy of not possessing nuclear weapons, after U.S. presidential hopeful Donald Trump said he would be open to the idea of Japan and South Korea having their own atomic arsenals.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters that the countrys three principles of not owning, making or allowing nuclear weapons remain an important basic policy of the government.

Trump said in an interview with The New York Times published Sunday that asking Japan and South Korea to pay more for their own defense could mean nuclear.

He said the issue at some point is something that we have to talk about.

Suga, Japans top government spokesman, declined to comment specifically on Trumps statement, saying he is only running for the presidency at this point. Suga expressed confidence that the U.S.-Japan alliance will remain a pillar of Japanese policy, no matter who wins the U.S. presidential election in November.

The U.S. stations tens of thousands of troops in Japan and South Korea, and both are key U.S. allies in the Pacific. Trump said he would withdraw those troops if Japan and South Korea dont contribute more to their cost.

South Korean Defense Ministry spokesman Moon Sang Gyun said he had no comment on Trumps remarks. Asked in general about a U.S. troop withdrawal, he said South Korea believes that its alliance with the United States remains strong.

North Koreas development of nuclear weapons has prompted questions about whether other Asian nations would feel the need to follow suit.

(AP)
A Jewish man and an airport worker in Yemen have been arrested under the accusation of aiding in the smuggling of an antique Sefer Torah from the war-torn country to Israel, the Jewish Chronicle reports.

Last week, 19 Yemini Jews were airlifted to Israel in what officials called a complex, covert operation that was carried out with the assistance of the Jewish Agency and the US State Department.

The group from Raydah included the communitys rabbi, who brought a Sefer Torah believed to be between 500 and 600 years old.

The airport employee is accused of purposely allowing the rabbi through security with the Sefer Torah, said the Jewish Chronicle.

According to the Jewish Chronicle, circulating images of Israeli Prime Minsiter Benjamin Netanyahu welcoming the group of Yemini Jews to Israel, including one of Netanyahu with the Rabbi and the Torah, prompted the arrests. The Yemini government reportedly feels that the torah is the property of Yemen.

According to the Jewish Chronicle, Jewish Agency spokesman Avi Mayer was not able to confirm reports of the arrests.

Asked about the torah, Mayer said that the ancient Torah scroll brought from Yemen to Israel this week is the property of the Raydah Jewish community, of Yemenite Jewry, and of the Jewish people.

The notion that the Torah should have been left, without protection, in a country torn apart by a violent civil war involving several parties that are viciously hostile to Jews, is preposterous. The Torah is part of the proud heritage of Yemenite Jewry and that heritage will live on in the state of Israel, he added.

(Source: i24News)
Luxuriant: Tim Parker's much-discussed perm

Rakish Post Office Chairman Tim Parker's luscious poodle perm is much-discussed in boardrooms.

Mischievous types wonder if the Porsche-driving ex-Deputy London Mayor's grey ringlets are all his own.

'It's entirely real,' insists Parker, 60. 'People expect it to come off when I dive into a swimming pool.

But it stays on.' I trust his numerous chairmanships, which also include luggage maker Samsonite and the National Trust, receive the same meticulous attention as his elegantly-coiffed locks.

Now that former chief of the General Staff General Sir Mike Jackson's soldiering days are over he enjoys several cosy directorships, including Chairman of G7ENIUS, an internet security firm which safeguards against identity theft.

Ironic, then, that the droopy-eyed war hero's private email has been hacked. Last week, friends received one of those irritating 'phishing' emails purporting to be from Jackson, claiming he'd been mugged in Istanbul and needed urgent funds to be wired to him.

Difficult to know what hard-as-nails Jackson, 72, would find more embarrassing. That his own email was hacked or friends thinking he'd been duffed up by a bunch of Turkish bandits.

Thomas Cook boss Peter Fankhauser reported a 5 per cent drop in bookings last week, but the sleek, Swiss-born executive remained buoyant about the travel operator's summer prospects.

Clearly the jovial Herr Fankhauser, 55, who succeeded Harriet Green in 2014, likes to maintain some perspective when it comes to threatening setbacks.

A recent visitor to his London office says he keeps an urn on his desk of the volcanic ash which grounded planes for weeks in 2010, as a wry memento of the crisis which cost Thomas Cook 70million.

Could we be about to see the return of Habitat to our high streets? Only three of its stores currently remain since its purchase in 2011 by Home Retail Group, soon to be owned by Sainsbury's.

But I hear Habitat's cigar-chomping founder Sir Terence Conran has written a friendly note to the supermarket's president Lord (John) Sainsbury informing him he thinks his old shop is 'revivable'. Conran, 84, founded Habitat in 1964 with second wife Caroline.

The pair remain close, despite her rinsing the old booby for 10million in their 1996 divorce.

Booze pedlar Diageo's new Chicago-born Chief Financial Officer Kathryn Mikells, who arrived at the Johnnie Walker owner from Xerox four months ago, is no devotee of her employer's wares.

Hosting the firm's recent press dinner at The Shard, which groaned with alcohol, she touched nothing stronger than fizzy water.

Skinny-as-a-rake Mikells, 51, told hacks she eschews the hard stuff nowadays after becoming more health conscious.
A consortium led by insurance giant Anbang if fighting Marriott for Starwood Hotel & Resorts

The bidding war for the owner of Sheraton and W Hotels intensified after the Chinese came back with a higher offer.

In what has been described as the fiercest takeover battle for years, a consortium led by Chinese insurance giant Anbang sweetened its offer for Starwood Hotel & Resorts to 10.5billion.

That is more than the rival 10.1billion bid tabled by hotels group Marriott and follows a string of tit-for-tat increases that has driven up the price.

The two suitors have been locked in a bidding war since Marriott made its first approach for Starwood in November.

Starwood said it would evaluate whether the latest bid from Anbang is superior to the offer made by Marriott last week.

A deal with Marriott would create the worlds largest hotel group with 5,500 hotels and 1.1million rooms.

It is now thought to be considering whether to come back with a better offer. Marriotts logic was a deal would give it a greater presence in markets such as Europe, Latin America and Asia. About three-quarters of Marriotts rooms are in America.

But Starwood has around half of its rooms outside the States which accounted for almost two-thirds of its revenue in 2014.

A newly-combined American group, which would throw together Ritz-Carlton and Sheraton with the boutique W chain, would knock Britains InterContinental Hotels off its top slot as the worlds biggest hotel group.

The owner of Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza has seen its shares suffer over disappointment that to date it has not participated in the industry consolidation.

They have fallen 4 per cent since last April.
Britains biggest engineering firms have been awarded contracts worth 372million by the Ministry of Defence for maintaining its fleet of Hawk aircraft.

Rolls-Royce and defence giant BAE Systems, with maintenance partner Babcock, will share four contracts supporting 700 UK jobs until 2020.

Hawk jets are used by the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force to train pilots before they migrate to flying fighter planes such the Tornados and Typhoons operating in Iraq and Syria.

They are also used by the RAF aerobatics team  the Red Arrows.

Philip Dunne, minister for defence procurement, said: The contracts to support these vital training aircraft are a boost to British industry.

Contracts worth 293million have been awarded to BAE Systems to modify and upgrade existing Hawks while a 79million contract has been placed with Rolls-Royce to test, repair and overhaul the Ardour engines that power the aircraft.

Hawks have been used to train more than 20,000 pilots in air forces across the world with more than 1,000 Hawks now delivered or on order.
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By Madina Toure

Two members of Congress Quiet Skies Caucus from Queens say they are disappointed that a short-term Federal Aviation Administration bill passed by the House does not include aircraft noise provisions.

On March 14, the House approved the Airport and Airway Extension Act, which extends the operating authority of the FAA through mid-Jul, according to U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing), one of the caucus members. The FAAs current operating authority expires on March 31 and the last short-term extension began on Oct. 1, 2015.

Since 2012, the amount of airplane noise over Queens has increased substantially due to the FAAs use of new flight patterns over the borough, Meng said, noting that this is the second time in five months that the House has passed a short-term measure without anti-noise provisions.

Relief cant come soon enough for Queens residents, Meng said. Something must be done to mitigate the barrage of airplane noise over our communities.

This past summer, Meng and the two other members of the caucus, U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) and U.S. Rep. Steve Israel (D-Melville), sent a letter to U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), the Transportation Committee chairman, and U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-Ore.), the ranking member, calling for noise mitigation to be included in the FAA bill.

One recommendation was a community engagement processincluding pre-decision public hearingsfor new flight paths or procedures or changes to existing flight paths and procedures.

Another mandates that the FAA use other noise metrics when evaluating the effect of aviation noise and reduce the acceptable noise threshold for homes and businesses in the flight paths.

Other recommendations include clarifying that airport operators are legally allowed to carry out and should strongly consider noise relief options in communities that experience aircraft noise levels below the current threshold, enabling the FAA to short-circuit the environmental review process when implementing new flight paths and requiring independent research on the health effects of aviation noise.

Crowley said the flying public deserves a long-term, full reauthorization package that both stabilizes the FAA and addresses noise pollution.

For too long, the surrounding communities of our airports have had to endure the deafening roar of airplanes and the toll its taken on them is reflected in the deterioration of their health and quality of life, Crowley said.